《Undying Life》


 Chapter 1 - One: Eightieth Birthday

    <h4>Chapter 1: Chapter One: Eightieth Birthday</h4>


    July seventh, in the country of Da Kun, at the Zhong Mansion in Xuan City.


    Today at the Zhong Mansion, the grand gates were wide open, and eight hundred tables were set for the banquet. Whether inside or outside the mansion, even the street where the Zhong Mansion gate was located, at this moment, was filled with seats. Anyone who came to congratte, regardless of their rtionship, could take a seat.


    Today is an important day. it is the eightieth birthday of Mr. Zhong, the patriarch of the Zhong Mansion.


    Mr. Zhong is a legendary figure. Starting from scratch, he has spent fifty years building this vast family fortune. His life in the Great Kun Empire resembles a mythical legend.


    Even the former Emperor of the Great Kun Empire has shared drinks and conversation with Mr. Zhong.


    Throughout his life, Mr. Zhong never entered officialdom, he was a businessman. However, in the Great Kun Empire, his status was exceptional. Over fifty years, Mr. Zhong amassed wealth beyond measure, surpassing even the envy of the imperial capital, Yanjing. His wealth exceeded that umted by millennia-old aristocratic families.


    Even Mr. Zhong himself was unsure of the extent of his wealth because vast sums of money poured into his coffers from all directions every day.


    Perhaps it was fate''s whim that Mr. Zhong had no descendants despite marrying eight wives and concubines, none of whom bore him children. It seemed as if heaven intentionally left behind a tremendous regret for Mr. Zhong''s illustrious life.


    However, Mr. Zhong did not me his wives and concubines. Instead, he adopted arge number of disciples. At present, Mr. Zhong had no fewer than a hundred disciples.


    Mr. Zhong imparted various knowledge to his disciples, who were entrusted with maintaining the vast family business. He took great care of each disciple, all of whom were martial arts prodigies. It seemed as though Mr. Zhong chose his disciples based on their innate talent and potential.


    Despite not having biological children of his own, Mr. Zhong had numerous descendants through his disciples, who had their own families. Therefore, he had many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.


    With so many disciples, each harbored a glimmer of hope for Mr. Zhong''s family legacy. It was akin to the descendants of an emperor; none of them were to be underestimated.


    From early in the day, a multitude of well-wishers began to arrive, filling the Zhong residence with joyous energy.


    In the inner courtyard of the Zhong residence stood a five-story tower-like attic, towering conspicuously within the estate.


    At the highest level of the attic, an elderly man stood, gazing down at the guests arriving from all directions.


    The elderly man had snow-white hair, and his eyebrows and beard were also white. His eyes gleamed with vitality, and his countenance exuded an aura of dignity,manding respect without any need for anger. This was Zhong Shan, the unshakable pir of the Zhong family.


    The furrow on the elder''s brow hinted at a contemtive mood, as if he were pondering something of great importance.


    At that moment, behind the pavilion, a middle-aged man with a sincere appearance ascended from below. Even though the elder''s back was turned to him, the middle-aged man still bowed respectfully.


    "Father, the banquet is ready. We''re waiting for you to start." The middle-aged man spoke earnestly.


    Interrupted by the remark, Mr. Zhong also snapped back to attention, turning to look at the middle-aged man.


    "Zhong Tian, have you reached the eighth stage of the post-celestial realm?" the elder asked calmly.


    "Yes, foster father, I have reached the eighth stage of the post-celestial realm. However, I''m already fifty years old this year, and I have no hope of reaching the innate realm in this lifetime," the middle-aged man sighed.


    "Mm," nodded Old Master Zhong.


    Then, under the guidance of Zhong Tian, he descended the stairs and slowly walked towards the front banquet hall.


    Inside the hall, it was already filled with guests. Half of them were Zhong Shan''s adopted sons, while the other half consisted of some important officials of the Great Kun Empire. Although Old Master Zhong did not hold an official position, his status in the Great Kun Empire was still quite high. While not on par with the four great millennial families, it was not far off.


    At the north end of the hall, there was a massive golden "��" character, a gift specially bestowed by the current emperor to Old Master Zhong for his birthday.


    At this moment, the hall was filled with seated guests, engaged in lively discussions, as if conversing about something important, yet no one touched the food and drinks on the tables.


    "The Master Zhong is here!" a servant suddenly eximed.


    As soon as the servant called out, the hall fell silent, and no one outside spoke.


    Then, the elderly Master Zhong, with his white hair and eyebrows, entered through a side door, assisted by his trusted disciple Zhong Tian.


    Despite his age, Master Zhong appeared lively and spirited. As he reached the central seat, a gentle smile graced his face.


    "Thank you all foring," the Master Zhong addressed the crowd.


    "Where would we be if not here for you?"


    "It''s only natural, only natural."


    "Exactly, it''s only right."


    ...


    The guests responded modestly, expressing their gratitude, while Master Zhong simply nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Suxing, on behalf of the Emperor, I respectfully wish Master Zhong longevity and well-being," a man in purple robes stood up and addressed Master Zhong.


    Clearly, he was one of the princes of the current Great Kun Kingdom.


    "Zhaolin, on behalf of our family head, I respectfully wish Master Zhong evesting radiance and eternal youth."


    "Qiansan, on behalf of our family head, I respectfully wish Master Zhong prosperity and longevity."


    "Sunli, on behalf of our family head, I respectfully wish Master Zhong all the best and eternal family happiness."


    "Liru, on behalf of our family head, I respectfully wish Master Zhong abundant blessings and limitless happiness."


    Then, four middle-aged men bowed to Master Zhong.


    "Well, thank you, Your Majesty and the four family heads. Please be seated," Master Zhong smiled lightly and responded.


    The guests all sat down, and then Master Zhong''s many adopted sons came forward one by one to congratte him on his birthday.


    The grand banquetsted for three full days.


    During this time, Master Zhong only showed his face on the first day. After that, he didn''t make any more appearances.


    Throughout these three days, all of Master Zhong''s adopted sons returned to congratte their foster father''s birthday. Some who had paid their respects immediately went back to their respective family businesses, but some were kept back by Master Zhong.


    Three dayster, after the grand banquet had dispersed, in a meeting hall within the Zhong residence, Master Zhong sat alone at the head of the table. In his hand, he held a red ball the size of a longan, gently caressing it as if it were his most precious possession.


    After wiping it several times and burning a stick of incense, the old man carefully ced it in a small cloth bag. Then, he threaded it with a thin string and hung it around his chest.


    "Let them in," Master Zhong gently called out.


    "Yes," came the reply from outside the door, presumably from Zhong Tian.


    Soon, led by Zhong Tian, seven other people entered. Three of them were about the same age as Zhong Tian, around forty or fifty years old, while the other four were much younger, appearing to be only in their thirties or forties.


    "Father," the eight individuals greeted Master Zhong in unison.


    "Take a seat," Master Zhong said calmly.


    "Yes," the eight individuals promptly sat down.


    "Zhong Di, Zhong Xuan, Zhong Huang, Zhong Yi, Zhong Liu, Zhong Shi Ba, Zhong Shi Jiu, are your cultivations all stable at the post-celestial tenth level now?" Master Zhong asked.


    "Yes, Father," they replied.


    Only one of them, a slightly younger man, looked slightly surprised and said, "Father, I just reached the post-celestial tenth level ten days ago. I was nning to surprise you, but I didn''t expect you to know in advance."


    "Zhong Shi Jiu, at thirty-two years old, reaching the post-celestial pinnacle is indeed a pleasant surprise," Master Zhong said, looking at his youngest son with a faint smile, showing his particr fondness for this youngest son.


    "Father, you exaggerate," Zhong Shi Jiu said, seemingly shy.


    "Well, do you know why I called you all here today?" Master Zhong asked.


    "We don''t know," they all shook their heads, looking at their father in confusion, wondering why he suddenly summoned them.


    "In a few days, the Dragon Gate Assembly will take ce, and you will apany me to the assembly," Master Zhong said calmly.


    "The Dragon Gate Assembly? Father, do you know where it''s held? Only the four major families and the royal family would know," Zhong Shi Jiu eximed excitedly.


    At the same time, the others looked at Master Zhong with excitement on their faces.


    On the side, the sincere-looking Zhong Tian sat quietly, showing no sign of joy despite his surprise.


    "Yes, I will take you to the Dragon Gate Assembly. There, elites from various countries will gather, most of whom are at the post-celestial pinnacle, and there may even be pre-celestial experts. I hope you can attract the attention of one of the immortal sects and be their disciples, learning the supreme immortal path and achieving immortality," Master Zhong said.


    "Yes, father," they eximed excitedly.


    In the world, there were indeed immortals. Although some people considered it superstition, the Zhong family, being such a prominent n, knew that immortals were not just a myth but existed. However, they had alwayscked a method to reach them. They had desires but no means to pursue them.


    "I will take you to participate in the Dragon Gate Assembly in the hope that you can escape from worldly troubles and enter the immortal sect. Also, I hope you can do something for me," Master Zhong''s eyes suddenly lit up.


    "Father, just name it. If it''s within my power, I will do it," Zhong Shi Jiu said immediately.


    Seeing that his youngest disciple hadn''t even heard what he had to say and was already pledging his assurance, Master Zhong felt a wave of relief.


    "Well, it''s not a difficult task. All you need to do is join a certain immortal sect, then ask the master or elder of the sect for Pills that break through the realm for me," Master Zhong said excitedly.

 Chapter 2 - Two: Dragon Gate Valley

    <h4>Chapter 2: Chapter Two: Dragon Gate Valley</h4>


    Three dayster, in a hall at the rear of the Zhong Residence, Mr. Zhong leaned on a dragon-headed cane, gazing at his eight excited adopted sons.


    "Is everything clear?" Mr. Zhong asked.


    "Yes, father," they all nodded excitedly.


    "Everything within the mansion will proceed smoothly, father, rest assured," Zhong Tian said.


    "Hmm," Mr. Zhong nodded, a hint of satisfaction in his eyes as he looked at his seven adopted sons who had reached the pinnacle of the post-celestial realm, nodding approvingly.


    Gently, Mr. Zhong tapped the floor of the hall with his dragon-headed cane, making a rhythmic sound.


    "Tap, tap, tap, tap."


    In the astonished gaze of the adopted sons, a section of the floor in the hall split open, revealing a passage leading underground.


    Seeing this scene, the adopted sons were all surprised. Even Zhong Tian, who had been serving Mr. Zhong all along, had a look of astonishment in his eyes. How many secrets did their father still hold?


    "Let''s go," Mr. Zhong said, leading the way and descending the stairs slowly.


    The adopted sons exchanged nces, but none dared to ask questions.


    As they descended, the passage widened, leading to arge underground hall.


    On the walls, there was a carving of a wolf''s head. Mr. Zhong turned it gently, and the passage that had opened above closed once more.


    The adopted sons looked down in astonishment at the vast underground hall below. It was incrediblyrge and deep, and at the edge of the hall was a massive passage that seemed to stretch infinitely into the distance. Along the sides of the passage weremps illuminating the way, and at the edge of the passage stood a gigantic iron structure.


    The entire passage was filled with countless iron bars, two of which extended into the infinite distance. Standing in front of the iron structure were a dozen or so people, who bowed deeply upon seeing Mr. Zhong, indicating that they had been arranged by him earlier.


    As Mr. Zhong looked at the iron structure, he couldn''t help but sigh. What was this? In his memories from a previous life, it resembled the earliest form of steam trains, which utilized coal to heat water and create steam under high pressure. This steam then powered pistons to drive the lotive forward. While Mr. Zhong didn''t know how to recreate many technological advancements from his previous life, the basic principle behind steam trains was something he still remembered.


    For fifty years, Mr. Zhong searched for many skilled craftsmen and spent nearly twenty years studying steam engines. Eventually, they managed to develop the most primitive form of a steam lotive. However, Mr. Zhong did not make this discovery public; he preferred to keep it to himself.


    Therefore, underground, a railroad was constructed. Mr. Zhong was wealthy, incredibly wealthy, so he didn''t mind the expenses. After all, a crafty rabbit always has multiple burrows, and Mr. Zhong was no exception.


    "Let''s go, get in," Mr. Zhong said as he led the group into one of the train carriages. The eight adopted sons looked at each other in astonishment. What was this? Weren''t they supposed to be going to the Dragon Gate Summit?


    After the doors were closed, Mr. Zhong instructed, "Depart."


    "Yes," the dozen or so people outside immediately responded.


    Then, seated in the incredibly luxurious carriage, the adopted sons suddenly felt the iron structure move. And from the front, there came a deafening roar.


    "Rumble, rumble, rumble..."


    The steam train sped swiftly through the underground towards Mr. Zhong''s destination. The adopted sons were filled with questions as they watched the lights outside the stained ss windows rapidly recede, indicating the iron structure was moving rapidly.


    They exchanged astonished looks and then nced towards Mr. Zhong. He sat there, leaning on his dragon-headed cane with his eyes closed, seemingly resting. Seeing this, the adopted sons didn''t disturb him, burying their questions deep inside.


    For three days, the train journeyed non-stop. After three days, the adopted sons knew they were far away from the Zhong estate. The initial surprise at the sound of the train gradually turned into eptance.


    On the third day, the train slowly came to a halt. Still underground, they disembarked at the edge of a hall. Led by Mr. Zhong, they walked up the same passage they had descended, emerging into another hall above ground.


    "We''re at the foot of Hengshan Mountain. This estate belongs to me. Rest here for two days and get yourselves in the best shape. Two dayster, we''ll head to Dragon Gate Valley to attend the summit," Mr. Zhong announced.


    "Yes, sir," the adopted sons immediately responded.


    After leaving the hall, the group found themselves in a vast estate, bustling with numerous servants. Upon seeing Mr. Zhong, the servants all bowed respectfully. After Mr. Zhong gave some instructions, the adopted sons were each taken to their respective rooms by a steward-like figure.


    Once the adopted sons were seen off, Mr. Zhong made his way to a small courtyard, which served as his residence within the estate. He gently pushed open the door to his room, finding it neat and tidy inside.


    There was arge bed and some high-quality cabs. On the wall opposite the bed hung a portrait, weathered with age, indicating its existence for many years.


    Mr. Zhong entered the bedroom and walked slowly to the portrait, examining it closely with earnestness. In the portrait was a woman, exquisitely beautiful, with sparkling eyes, glossy ck hair, and a figure that captivated the gaze. She wore a red robe and delicately held a flower to her nose, smiling faintly with an enchanting charm that seemed to outshine everything around her.


    As Mr. Zhong gazed at the stunning woman in the portrait, aplex emotion flickered in his eyes.


    "My dear, have you forgotten about me? Why haven''t you returned yet?" Mr. Zhong sighed with a hint of sorrow and pain on his face.


    In front of the portrait, Mr. Zhong stood silently for two hours before letting out a sigh, shaking his head, and then sitting down on the bed.


    cing his dragon-headed cane gently by the bedside, Mr. Zhong eased his mind. He closed his eyes and began to meditate, preparing himself for the uing Dragon Gate Conference. Two dayster, outside the estate, Mr. Zhong led the way with the eight loyal sons following behind.


    Heading north from the estate led them to rugged mountain terrain with no discernible path. Only skilled martial artists like them could navigate such treacherous terrain, fraught with poisonous nts and creatures. Even with decades of experience, Mr. Zhong and his party had to proceed cautiously to avoid danger.


    As they journeyed, young Zhong Neen held Mr. Zhong''s cane, while the others, except for Zhong Tian, whogged behind due to his slower pace, managed to keep up despite the challenging terrain. Mr. Zhong patiently waited for Zhong Tian, adjusting their pace to amodate him.


    As night fell, they found a suitable spot to rest and recuperate. Each member of the group focused on preparing themselves for the journey ahead, with Zhong Tian taking on the role of sentinel, keeping watch for any threats from the surrounding wilderness.


    Zhong Tian was known for his simple and honest nature. Although he was the eldest son of Mr. Zhong, his cultivation progress was not particrly rapid. He had only reached the eighth stage of the acquired realm, and Zhong Tian harbored no illusions about advancing further. He simply wanted to witness the legendary Dragon Gate Conference.


    Mr. Zhong certainly wouldn''t assign Zhong Tian to night duty. As for the other seven sons, Zhong Tian couldn''t shake the feeling that they were rather superficial, showing respect to him only when they were children and mostly performing for the sake of their father. However, Zhong Tian''s easygoing nature prevented him from dwelling on this too much, especially considering their superior cultivation levels.


    The journey through the mountains was arduous, fraught with dangers such as poisonous creatures, nts, and miasma. However, Mr. Zhong always seemed to have the right antidotes on hand, ensuring their safety at every turn. Seeing the items Mr. Zhong carried, the other sons couldn''t help but realize that their father was intimately familiar with this route, having traversed it many times before.


    After five days of trekking through rugged terrain, they finally emerged from the mountains into a valley. Outside the valley, they encountered several groups of people arriving from different directions. Most were unfamiliar, but one group of six individuals was instantly recognizable.


    The Zhao family, one of the four major ns of the Great Kun Kingdom?


    "Is that the head of the Zhao family?" The sons of Zhong were clearly surprised.Leading the group was a man in white robes who appeared to be in his forties or fifties, but the Zhong sons knew that he was the head of the Zhao family, and his youthful appearance was due to his cultivation reaching the innate realm.


    "Zhong Shan?" The head of the Zhao family recognized Mr. Zhong holding the dragon-headed cane at a nce, his eyes shing with disbelief.


    "It''s a small world, isn''t it? Zhao Family Head, it''s been a while. How have you been?" Mr. Zhong smiled lightly.


    Behind the Zhao family head, the five Zhao family juniors cast disdainful nces at Zhong Shan''s eight sons. However, upon seeing Mr. Zhong, they all showed a hint of respect. After all, Mr. Zhong''s legend was well-known throughout the Great Kun Kingdom, even among their millennia-old family.


    Mr. Zhong was a legendary figure, despitecking deep roots. Everything he had aplished was admired by all, while his sons merely enjoyed the benefits.


    "Haha, I didn''t expect you to know about this ce. You''re not ordinary," remarked the Zhao family head, narrowing his eyes.


    "Just bringing a few juniors to see the sights. And what about you, Zhao Family Head? Which sect are you nning to enter?" Mr. Zhong inquired.


    "Enter a sect? Well, you and I are of the same age. I''m already eighty. Even if there are family members in high ces, they can''t get me in. This time, I''m just bringing some talented juniors to try their luck," replied the Zhao family head with a smile.


    "In that case, I wish you good luck," Mr. Zhong said.


    "Likewise, I wish your Zhong family luck in finding someone who can enter a sect," the Zhao family head said, squinting at Zhong''s eight sons.


    "Thank you," nodded Mr. Zhong.


    "Farewell," said the Zhao family head before leaving.


    Watching the Zhao family members enter the valley, Mr. Zhong''s expression turned solemn as he squinted his eyes, pondering for a moment.


    "Let''s go. Inside," Mr. Zhong said, leaning on his dragon-headed cane.


    "Yes," the sons of Zhong immediately nodded.


    Following Mr. Zhong, they slowly made their way inside, alongside various other factions.

 Chapter 3 - Three: The Dragon Gate Assembly

    <h4>Chapter 3: Chapter Three: The Dragon Gate Assembly</h4>


    In the vicinity of Lord Zhong''s Great Kun Kingdom, there were many other countries, so there were plenty of unfamiliar faces gathered here.


    Within the valley, therey an enormous open-air arena, vast and sprawling, with a diameter reaching beyond a kilometer, reminiscent of arge sports stadium from Lord Zhong''s previous life.


    At the bottom of the valley, the central area was expansive and immacte, while the periphery was strewn with countless stones.


    The cliffs rose vertically around the valley, encircling it at the center.


    On the cliffs, about a hundred meters above ground level, there were nearly fifty terraces arranged in a horizontal line. Each terrace could amodate fifty people standing upon it. Two hundred meters above ground level, there were eight terraces arranged in eight directions.


    Eight upper terraces and fifty lower ones.


    Upon these lower terraces, there were already several individuals standing, their robes billowing gracefully around them, some with swords or knives strapped to their backs.


    In the square below, there were nearly three thousand people standing along the edge of the valley floor.


    Lord Zhong, apanied by his eight eldest disciples, arrived at a corner.


    Eldest disciple Zhong Tian brought over arge rock and ced it in the corner for Lord Zhong to sit on.


    Sitting down gently, Lord Zhong looked at his seven disciples who had reached the pinnacle of the Postnatal stage and began to exin, "This is Dragon Gate Valley. The terraces above are where disciples from various major immortal sects stand. They are divided into upper and lower terraces. The lower terraces are for disciples from lesser immortal sects or independent cultivators to gather, while the upper terraces are where the disciples of the top five immortal sects gather. They may not all be present, but they are here to recruit disciples."


    Seeing people already standing on the lower terraces, the disciples felt excited. Were they disciples of the immortal sects?


    "Father, what are upper and lower immortal sects?" Zhong Neen asked.


    "Heh, upper and lower immortal sects are just general terms. As long as your sect is powerful, it''s considered an upper immortal sect. It''s just a kind of pride thates with being a major sect," Lord Zhong chuckled.


    "Do you know what these people below are considered in the eyes of these immortal sects?" Lord Zhong asked.


    The others shook their heads.


    "Cattle," Lord Zhong said with a solemn expression.


    "Cattle?" The disciples furrowed their brows in surprise.


    "That''s right. In the eyes of these immortal sects, these people are all considered cattle. Mortals from the mundane world are all cattle, chosen for their selection. In their minds, they are evolving beings, bing more advanced. And we, we''re at the bottom, just like those wild savages I showed youst time. Would you consider them to be on the same level as you? Would you treat them as equals, sharing wine andughter? No, you wouldn''t. And neither would these disciples of the immortal sects. They are selecting some lucky ones, picking those who catch their eye. Only those chosen will be valued by them," Lord Zhong said with a hint of resignation in his eyes.


    Hearing Lord Zhong''s words, the disciples fell into silence.


    In just a short while, Lord Zhong''s group saw some mortals being brought up to the lower terraces. Just like the Zhao family, at this moment, two young men from the Zhao family were brought up ahead of others because they had connections above.


    Lord Zhong patiently waited.


    Two hourster, countless sword lights flew across the sky from all directions. One after another, disciples from various immortal sects descended upon the terraces, riding flying swords. There were also those who controlled other magical treasures, as well as monks and nuns flying to the terraces in this valley.


    "The Dragon Gate Assembly. If you''re not chosen to start, you''ll have to participate inbat and ughter for the amusement of these disciples from the immortal sects. It''s quitemon for those who are inferior in skill to die on the spot. There are more than three thousand people here, but in the end, fewer than two hundred will walk out of this valley alive. If you don''t want to take the risk, then don''t continue," Lord Zhong addressed his disciples.


    "Rest assured, Father," the disciples replied with determination in their eyes. This was an excellent opportunity. How could they give up now?


    "Mm," Lord Zhong nodded.


    In the Dragon Gate Valley, thirty out of the fifty lower terraces were already upied by individuals from various factions. As for the upper terrace, there was only one person, dressed entirely in white robes, standing at the pinnacle, looking down with indifference.


    Before long, more individuals arrived on the upper terrace: a group of radiant monks, a group of elegantly dressed men and women, and a group of people in ck robes. Representatives from four different factions had gathered on the upper terrace.


    Just as it seemed the proceedings were about tomence, another figure appeared on the empty upper terrace��a woman dressed in purple robes, floating gracefully without a flying sword beneath her feet.


    Her arrival captured the attention of almost everyone present. d in purple robes with numerous ribbons, she looked exceptionally beautiful. Her bare feet were as exquisite as carved jade, and her figure was alluringly curved. Her delicate face seemed to embody all the beauty of the world, leaving those who beheld her breathless.


    However, there was one w��her demeanor was icy cold. Her emotionless gaze swept over the crowd below, regarding them like mere ants.


    Many on the lower terraces and at the valley floor gazed at her with longing, including Lord Zhong''s seven disciples, although Lord Zhong himself remained focused on observing the various factions. As for Zhong Tian, he seemed indifferent to the woman''s beauty, fully dedicated to serving his father.


    Even the disciples of the four major immortal sects on the upper terrace, who initially appearedposed, couldn''t help but shudder visibly when they saw her face. They dared not look at her again.


    With representatives from all five major immortal sects present, the Dragon Gate Assembly officially began.


    One of the lower terraces, an elderly man with a white beard, was the first to speak up.


    "All those under sixty years old who have reached the Innate Realm and those who have peaked in the Postnatal Realm before the age of fifty, stand in the center of the field," the white-bearded man announced loudly.


    His voice reverberated throughout the Dragon Gate Valley, signaling the beginning of the Dragon Gate Assembly. Excitement filled the air as everyone understood that thepetition had begun.


    "Go on," Lord Zhong said, leaning on his cane and addressing his seven disciples.


    "Yes!" The disciples replied eagerly and dashed out.


    They gathered in the center of the square, forming thirty rows with one hundred people in each row.


    Three thousand participants of the Dragon Gate Assembly stood in formation, while about a hundred individuals, like Lord Zhong, stationed themselves at the edge of the valley, knowing they had no chance and had merely escorted their disciples here.


    "Those in the Innate Realm who are under fifty years old, step forward," the white-bearded elder continued.


    Twenty people, filled with excitement, separated from the main group and formed a line. They were all powerful individuals under the age of fifty.


    Meanwhile, on the terraces above, disciples from various immortal sects each threw different objects��a piece of iron flower, a small sword, a pearl��toward the individuals in the Innate Realm. Unbeknownst to each other, they allnded in the hands of those selected by their respective sects. The individuals under fifty years old in the Innate Realm were filled with excitement upon receiving these tokens, knowing they had been chosen by a sect.


    "Those who have peaked in the Postnatal Realm before the age of thirty-five, step forward," the white-bearded elder dered again.


    Upon hearing this, even Lord Zhong, who was sitting aside, trembled slightly, his face filled with extreme surprise.


    Zhong Neen, Zhong Tian neen was only thirty-two years old!


    With great excitement, Zhong Neen hurried to the front and stood with the other twelve individuals. He couldn''t contain his joy��only thirty-two years old, he was only thirty-two years old!


    Sure enough, those twelve individuals were also chosen by various immortal sects, and numerous small objects were thrown down from above. Zhong Neen received a small wooden sword and looked at the terrace from which it was thrown with great excitement.


    Chosen! Zhong Neen was chosen! Lord Zhong, sitting aside, trembled with excitement, his eyes filled with extreme joy. Meanwhile, the other two thousand plus participants looked on with envy at those who had been chosen early.


    "Good, those in the Innate Realm will face each other, and those in the Postnatal Realm will do the same. Choose your opponents and then separate to fight," the white-bearded elder dered again.


    "Yes!" The participants of the Dragon Gate Assembly responded in unison.


    Subsequently, the thirty-two individuals who had been chosen stood in one ce, while the other two thousand plus participants divided into different areas and began their bloody ughter.


    It was absolute carnage��each participant used their strongest and fastest moves to knock down their opponents. Only by defeating their opponents could they hope to gain the sympathy or attention of the immortal sects above.


    The entire battlefield was filled with blood and countless shes of light. Were they merely livestock, gambling with their lives to earn the favor or a second nce from the immortal sects above?


    Big Brother Zhong Tian couldn''t bear to watch.


    "Ahhhh!"


    In the distance, as Zhong Xuan chopped off his opponent''s right arm, a wooden knife flew over from a lower-tier immortal sect andnded in Zhong Xuan''s hand. At that moment, Zhong Xuan''s eyes lit up with excitement. He got it, he got it!


    With the knife in hand, Zhong Xuan quickly ran towards where Zhong Neen was.


    "Ahhhh!" "Ahhhh!" "Ahhhh!" ...


    The screams continued unabated, with over a hundred people being ughtered on the spot. Many others received small objects thrown by the immortal sects above.


    Zhong Eighteen and Zhong Six were both killed by their opponents, despite Zhong Tian''s desperate cries. Zhong Tian''s eyes turned red, and he instinctively wanted to rush out, but he was held back by Zhong Lao. Even Zhong Lao''s eyes showed a hint of heartache at that moment, but he still held Zhong Tian back.


    "You don''t have the strength to stop them. If you rush out, you''ll only meet your death. Besides, they chose this path themselves. You can leave now ande back immediately. But the disciples have chosen to fight, all for the chance to enter the immortal sects. Immortality is too tempting."


    After a while, Zhong Di also obtained a token. However, Zhong Huang and Zhong Yi were killed on the spot.


    Throughout the battle, everyone in the arena was consumed by bloodlust. After defeating one opponent, they would immediately engage in another fight if they hadn''t received a token yet, continuing until they either obtained a token or exhausted their strength.


    An hourter, only five hundred people had been chosen, while only two hundred remained locked inbat. Each of them was covered in blood, and the ground was littered with corpses.


    It was brutal��too brutal.


    "Stop!" the white-bearded eldermanded.


    The remaining hundred-plus individuals, covered in bloodstains, unconsciously stopped in their tracks. Tears of sadness welled up in the eyes of these ordinary heroes as they hurriedly rushed to the bodies strewn on the ground.


    "They weren''t chosen, they''re gone. Our loved ones, our friends..."


    It was a brutal scene, a brutal ughter. This was the Dragon Gate Assembly. People yearned for it, dreaming of ascending to be dragons. But those who couldn''t make it would fall to their deaths.


    At this moment, Zhong Tian immediately rushed to the center of the field to search for the bodies of Zhong Huang, Zhong Yi, Zhong Liu, and Zhong Shi Ba.


    Quickly, carrying the four bodies with tears in his eyes, Zhong Tian returned to Zhong Lao Ye''s side, his whole body covered in blood.


    "s..." Zhong Lao Ye let out a gentle sigh. They had chosen this path themselves.


    "Father," Zhong Tian looked at Zhong Lao Ye.


    "We''ll take them back and give them a proper burial," Zhong Lao Ye said.


    "Mm," Zhong Tian nodded.


    At this moment, figures descended from the various tforms above, each locating the person who had chosen them and dispersing to different locations.


    "Master, please ept your disciple''s three bows," echoed the calls from all around.


    In each ce, the master-disciple rtionships were hastily established. Zhong Di, Zhong Xuan, and Zhong Shi Jiu each bowed to their respective sects. Zhong Di and Zhong Xuan joined two Lower Immortal Sects, while Zhong Shi Jiu, feeling incredibly fortunate, joined one of the groups of white-d Upper Immortal Sect members.


    With rtionships established, the next step was bidding farewell to the people who hade to send them off, settling their karma. From now on, they would no longer concern themselves with worldly matters, entering the immortal sects to cultivate the supreme immortal dao.


    Some bid farewell to their families before departing from their newly-epted masters.


    At this moment, Zhong Lao Ye, leaning on his cane, watched his three grand disciples. He must obtain a Prohibition Breaking Pill from the immortal master.


    However, Zhong Di, Zhong Xuan, and Zhong Shi Jiu did note to bid farewell to Zhong Lao Ye. Instead, they stood on the flying swords or magic tools of their respective masters, flying up to the tforms.

 Chapter 4 - Four: Innate Realm

    <h4>Chapter 4: Chapter Four: Innate Realm</h4>


    The three grand disciples ascended to the tform?


    Seeing this scene, an unsettling feeling crept into Master Zhong''s heart.


    "It can''t be. They''re just on the tform to ask their masters for the Forbidden Pill. They will definitelye back," Master Zhong reassured himself repeatedly.


    However, after the three grand disciples ascended to the tform, they stood behind their respective masters without saying a word. Their masters, too, remained indifferent, waiting for their junior disciples to arrive.


    Sure enough, when everyone gathered on the tform and the senior disciples brought their newly recruited disciples, they departed on their flying swords.


    Seeing Zhong Xixu''s departure, thest thread of hope in Master Zhong''s heart shattered.


    "Ungrateful traitors! How could they?!" Master Zhong inwardly screamed, but years of self-restraint made him suppress his emotions. He closed his eyes gently, feeling a wave of sorrow washing over him.


    Zhong Di and Zhong Xuan behaved simrly, standing behind their masters, waiting for their junior brothers'' disciples to be recruited before departing together. During this time, they didn''t even spare a nce in Master Zhong''s direction.


    The eldest disciple couldn''t bear witnessing this betrayal any longer.


    "What are you two doing, Zhong Di, Zhong Xuan?" Zhong Tian roared in anger.


    His shout drew the attention of almost everyone. The disciples of the immortal sects furrowed their brows and ignored him, while others paid little heed.


    But Zhong Di and Zhong Xuan, after casting a nce in Zhong Tian''s direction, shed a hint of disdain in their eyes.


    "Who sheltered you, former beggars, and granted you wealth and luxury? It was our master! And this is how you repay him?" Zhong Tian shouted furiously.


    "You despicable creatures! Have you no conscience? Even if you could cultivate immortality, you''d only be demons!" Zhong Tian''s rage thundered through the air.


    Zhong Di seemed to whisper something to his master.


    His master''s eyes widened, and he quickly gestured with his hands, unleashing a spell.


    "Boom~~~"


    Before Zhong Tian, arge pit, three meters deep, appeared suddenly. Obviously, Zhong Di''s master intended to silence Zhong Tian without killing him. Otherwise, Zhong Tian would have been dead already.


    To everyone witnessing this scene, it was not difficult to guess that Zhong Di must have said something obedient to his master.


    Zhong Tian was filled with hot blood at this moment. He had been raised by his foster father since childhood, and his life was bestowed upon him by his foster father. Therefore, Zhong Tian vowed to serve his foster father well. But now, several junior brothers had acted like beasts. Zhong Tian couldn''t bear it. Were they even persuading their masters to warn him for just one Forbidden Pill? Was it so difficult? Or was it that in their eyes, he and his foster father were already worthless, like ants?


    Seeing his foster father''s somewhat sighing expression, Zhong Tian couldn''t help but pick up arge stone from the ground and fiercely hurl it towards Zhong Di''s location.


    "Whoosh~~~"


    Therge stone flew into the air, swiftly heading towards Zhong Di''s tform. Although Zhong Tian''s cultivation level was not high, he possessed immense strength in his arms, reaching the level of some cultivators in the Early Stage of the Innate Realm.


    Therge stone rapidly descended towards the tform.


    At this moment, almost everyone was stunned. Was this person seeking death? How dare he go and attack a disciple of the immortal sect?


    "Seeking death~~~" Zhong Di''s master roared angrily.


    Zhong Di, as the master, effortlessly summoned a shining silver flying sword, which swiftly shot towards therge stone.


    "Boom~~~"


    Therge stone exploded into pieces, and the flying sword continued its terrifying speed, aiming directly at Zhong Tian.


    Seeing this, Zhong Lao Ye was startled. He swung his dragon-headed cane, attempting to intercept the flying sword. However, the sword was too fast, and in the blink of an eye, it reached Zhong Tian, who stood fearlessly.


    "Buzz~~~"


    Suddenly, a golden sphere appeared in front of Zhong Tian, and with a sh of golden light, the flying sword was deflected back.


    At the same time, a bald-headed monk from the upper tform flew over to Zhong Tian. With a simple gesture, the golden sphere transformed into a Buddhist bead andnded in his hand.


    The monk looked at Zhong Tian with a hint of joy on his face.


    "Innate divine strength?" The monk looked at Zhong Tian in amazement.


    Upon hearing this, Zhong Tian was stunned, and Zhong Lao Ye, who was about to raise his dragon-headed cane, lowered it slightly, furrowing his brow.


    "Are you willing to be my disciple?" The monk suddenly smiled.


    Upon hearing this, the people below were filled with astonishment. Could this rough man have found fortune in misfortune?


    The person who had previouslyunched the flying sword frowned upon seeing the monk''s arrival but refrained from attacking further. After all, the monk was from the upper tform, representing the higher sect.


    Zhong Tian looked at the monk in a daze, but Zhong Lao Ye''s temperament remained calm. He nudged Zhong Tian, prompting him toe to his senses.


    "Disciple Zhong Tian pays respects to Master." Zhong Tian immediately knelt down and bowed three times in quick session.


    "Rise, ande with me to the mountain," the monk said with a smile.


    However, Zhong Tian did not get up but remained kneeling on the ground, saying to the monk, "Master, I have a request."


    "Oh?" The monk looked somewhat surprised but remained patient as he gazed at Zhong Tian.


    "Disciple respectfully requests Master to grant me a Breaking Barrier Pill," Zhong Tian said while kneeling.


    Upon hearing Zhong Tian''s request, the monk was momentarily taken aback, while Zhong Lao Ye let out a long sigh of relief. It seemed like the tension he had been feeling earlier had suddenly dissipated. At the same time, he looked at the monk expectantly.


    The monk looked at Zhong Tian with surprise and then nced meaningfully at Zhong Lao Ye, quickly discerning the situation. He smiled knowingly and nodded.


    "A Breaking Barrier Pill is too low-level for me to have, but as my disciple said, of course, I will help you find one, considering your master," the monk chuckled.


    "Thank you, Master," Zhong Tian eximed excitedly, bowing repeatedly.


    "Alright, get up, don''t bump your head too hard," the monk said.


    "Yes," Zhong Tian immediately stood up, his eyes filled with excitement as he looked at both his foster father and the monk.


    At that moment, the monk suddenly flipped his hand and produced a golden dragon-eye-sized pill.


    As soon as the pill appeared, Zhong Lao Ye caught a whiff of an exceptionally divine fragrance. Just a whiff made it feel as if all his pores had opened up.


    "Friends, if anyone has a Breaking Barrier Pill, I am willing to exchange it for an Infant Transformation Pill," the monk announced loudly.


    Upon hearing this, almost everyone''s gaze fell on the pill in the monk''s hand. An Infant Transformation Pill? Wasn''t that an extraordinary pill? A Breaking Barrier Pill was considered mediocre, yet it could be exchanged for an Infant Transformation Pill?


    Almost all the disciples of the sects rummaged through their bags, but none could find a Breaking Barrier Pill. However, one disciple from the lower sect suddenly found one in his storage pouch, a purple Breaking Barrier Pill.


    Excitedly, he rode his flying sword towards the valley. "Master, I have one here. Do you need it?" he eximed eagerly.


    "Here you go." The monk tossed the Infant Transformation Pill and, with a flip of his hand, caught the Breaking Barrier Pill.


    "Thank you, Master," the disciple eximed excitedly as he epted the Infant Transformation Pill. Amidst the envious gazes of almost everyone, he flew back.


    "Here," the monk handed the pill to Zhong Tian.


    "Thank you, Master," Zhong Tian said excitedly. He then turned and handed the Breaking Barrier Pill to Zhong Lao Ye.


    At that moment, almost all the ordinary people below looked on with envy at the Breaking Barrier Pill. To them, possessing such a pill meant reaching the Innate Realm in an instant.


    Seeing Zhong Tian handing over the Breaking Barrier Pill, Zhong Lao Ye was filled with excitement. He carefully took out the pill, nced around, and, amidst the numerous prying eyes, swallowed it without hesitation. He then closed his eyes and began to meditate.


    Zhong Lao Ye understood the situation very well. If he didn''t swallow the pill now, he would never be able to leave this valley after all the disciples of the sects had left. The Breaking Barrier Pill would be snatched away.


    Innate Realm, this was the Innate Realm. The ordinary people below looked on with extreme envy, while the disciples of the sects showed disdainful expressions.


    In the sky, the disciples of the sects began to leave, each taking their disciples back to their respective mountain gates. They were somewhat surprised by Zhong Lao Ye''s breakthrough, but they didn''t pay too much attention. Innate Realm? Achieving the Innate Realm by using Breaking Barrier Pills? Perhaps they would remain at the same level for the rest of their lives. There was nothing impressive about it.


    On the upper tform, most of the disciples from the higher sects had also left. Only two remained��one was Zhong Tian''s master, waiting for him, and the other was the woman in the purple robe, a stunningly beautiful woman with cold eyes. She nced around and, finding nothing of interest in this Dragon Gate Assembly, left without another word, disappearing on the spot.


    As the true energy circted for the thirty-sixth time, itpletely transformed into purple-gold color. Zhong Lao Ye stopped his cultivation, feeling the incredible energy surging throughout his body. His eyes opened, emitting a brilliant light.


    Seeing Zhong Tian''s worried expression, Zhong Lao Ye let out a sigh of relief and smiled faintly.


    "Father, did it work?" Zhong Tian asked eagerly.


    "Thanks to your blessings," Zhong Lao Ye said softly as he stood up.


    "I owe my life to you, Father. It''s only right." Zhong Tian sighed. "But from now on, I will be going to the sect, and I won''t be able to serve you anymore."


    Watching his foster son, Zhong Lao Ye sighed and nodded. "Focus on your cultivation from now on. Go."


    Seeing that Zhong Lao Ye didn''t push for more favors, the monk nodded approvingly.


    "Disciple, let''s go," the monk said.


    "Yes, Master," Zhong Tian replied.


    "Father, I''m leaving," Zhong Tian said to Zhong Lao Ye.


    With a nod from Zhong Lao Ye, the monk waved his hand, summoning a white cloud. With Zhong Tian, he flew towards the upper tform, joining the other monks to leave the Dragon Gate Valley.


    As for Zhong Lao Ye, at this moment, his pupils contracted as he watched the white cloud carrying Zhong Tian.


    "Tian''er, you''ve found a good master," Zhong Lao Ye nodded.

 Chapter 5 - Five: The Purple Mist Fairy

    <h4>Chapter 5: Chapter Five: The Purple Mist Fairy</h4>


    "Congrattions, Brother Zhong," came the voice of Zhao, the head of the Zhao family, not far away.


    "Congrattions, Brother Zhong," another familiar figure, an acquaintance of Zhong''s, echoed.


    Zhong recognized him at a nce��Qian, the head of the Qian family, one of the four major ns.


    "Thank you, thank you," Zhong immediately returned the courtesy.


    After all, Zhao, too, was in the Innate Realm, and several offspring from his family had been chosen by the Immortal Sect.


    "Not long ago, Brother Zhong celebrated his birthday. It''s unexpected to see you here in such a short time. Truly a pleasant surprise," Qian remarked, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "We did rush a bit, but we made it in the end. Are you all heading back now?" Zhong Shan replied nonchntly.


    "Not yet. We still have some friends to visit. Perhaps we can catch up another day," Zhao said.


    "In that case, let''s meet another day," Zhong chuckled.


    With that, everyone bid farewell and departed.


    Before long, the Longmen Valley was empty, save for Zhong and the four bodies of his loyal disciples lying before him.


    Gazing at the corpses, Zhong sighed. The path they chose led to this, life and death were in the hands of fate. But if they were chosen like Zhong Neen or Zhong Tian, would their fate have been different?


    After a moment of reflection, Zhong dug arge pit outside the Longmen Valley and buried the bodies of his four disciples.


    As night fell, Zhong rested in the valley. The scenes of the day''s battle were still vivid in his mind, but he felt no fear sleeping amidst the corpses.


    At eighty years old, what scenes hadn''t he witnessed? Moreover, this ce was the safest; before the Dragon Gate Assembly, the powerful had already cleared out any nearby demons.


    The next day, after eating some dry rations and leaning on his dragon-headed cane, Zhong began his journey back.


    Reaching the Innate Realm was indeed different; walking was much swifter now. Nine hade, but only one was returning. Zhong felt no despair, only joy. The Innate Realm marked a new beginning.


    Of the four disciples, three had betrayed him, but Zhong Tian remained loyal, upholding filial duty. Zhong remembered it all, buried deep within.


    The mountain road was rugged, fraught with poisonous creatures. Zhong had to be cautious. Come dusk, he found a grove, climbed a tree, and strung his hammock between branches. He smeared herbs on the branches to deter snakes.


    Though he could stay awake for long periods in the Innate Realm, Zhong dared not travel at night. The deep mountains held countless dangers. He could only doze in the hammock.


    At midnight, two beams of light pierced the forest. Zhong, half asleep, woke at the sight.


    "Caw caw caw, Purple Mist Fairy, join me. Be mypanion. Would you refuse such an offer?" A sinister voice reached Zhong Tian.


    "Daydreaming, Red Luan Demon. Would I, of the Kaiyang Sect, ally with you? The once honorable Red Luan Sect, now under your lead, has be a great evil," a melodious voice entered Zhong''s ears.


    Kaiyang Sect? Zhong recognized it. But he didn''t rush out; instead, he held his breath, practicing the ancient breathing technique. He appeared lifeless in the hammock.


    "Red Luan Sect? Caw caw caw, if you care for this ancient sect, what of this ancestral sword I offer? It will be yours if you join me," the Red Luan Demon chuckled.


    "Huff... huff... What''s happening? Are you poisoning me?" the woman cried out.


    "The Red Luan Mist, how does it feel? The world''s top aphrodisiac, only I, the Red Luan Demon, can wield it. I don''t believe you can escape my grasp. Don''t me me; it was your female disciple''s dying words that revealed your secret. She said you were the Vessel of the Cauldron, the perfect cultivation furnace. It took quite an effort for me, the demon, to injure you like this. Since you refuse toply, don''t me me. I''ll erase your memories and take you back to enjoy," the Red Luan Demon chuckled.


    "You killed Qing''er?" the woman eximed in anger.


    "It''s not exactly killing. Who knows, maybe she''s still having a great time. She''s dead, though, under my care. She spilled a bit of your secrets before dying. Lucky me, right? The Vessel... no wonder the Purple Mist Fairy''s thunder technique is so powerful. If it weren''t for the sacrifices I made before, maybe I''d be defeated by you too," the Red Luan Demonughed sinisterly.


    "Even if I die, I won''t let you seed," the Purple Mist Fairy retorted angrily.


    "It''s toote. Feel that heat, Fairy? My Red Luan Mist envelops the entire forest. Even if you die, you won''t be able to die. This perfect furnace, it''s my first encounter. Come on, let me taste it. Haha," the Red Luan Demonughed wickedly.


    "You go to hell!!!" the Purple Mist Fairy roared.


    "Boom..."


    A deafening sound, then silence in the distance.


    "Huff... huff..."


    In the distance, only the sound of the Purple Mist Fairy''s heavy breathing remained. It was unclear whether it was from exhaustion or from being affected by the Red Luan Mist.


    "Crackle... crackle..."


    A series of strange crackling sounds followed.


    "Caw caw caw, can''t move, huh? The Heavenly Thunder Pearl, didn''t expect it. If you had used it from the start, maybe you could have killed me. But now, struggling to move, under the Red Luan Mist, you''ll soon lose your senses. Then, it''ll be my turn. Haha," the Red Luan Demon chuckled.


    "Still... still noting out. Huff... huff..." the Purple Mist Fairy gasped.


    As soon as the Purple Mist Fairy spoke, Zhong knew she was referring to him. Helplessly, he had to get up. It seemed the Purple Mist Fairy''s cultivation was stronger than the Red Luan Demon''s. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have noticed him. Escape now? Once his aura leaked, the demon would find him, and there would be endless pursuit.


    Sure enough, as Zhong got off the hammock, the Red Luan Demon noticed him.


    "There''s someone else," the Red Luan Demon said coldly.


    Zhong grabbed his dragon-headed cane and walked toward the depths of the forest. Before long, in an extremely bright area, he saw the two figures.


    The Purple Mist Fairy? Wasn''t she the stunning woman who appeared alone on the stage during the Dragon Gate Assembly among the five major immortal sects? Kaiyang Sect?


    At this moment, the Purple Mist Fairyy on the ground, her face flushed, eyes unfocused. Her luscious lips slightly parted, she panted softly, as if herst bit of consciousness was keeping her somewhat alert.


    In the palm of the Purple Mist Fairy''s hand was a streak of purple light, connecting to a purple me. The me danced incessantly, emitting countless lightning bolts. The bolts struck a hideous old man in ck robes, who emitted crackling sounds.


    The old man struggled amidst the purple lightning, excitement flickering in his eyes. However, upon seeing Zhong suddenly appear, a trace of malice shed in his eyes.


    Before the old many a broken red greatsword, presumably the so-called ancestral sect de, which seemed to have been shattered by the purple me.


    "Move my body forward, use the Heavenly Thunder Purple Fire to burn him to death. Huff... huff..." The Purple Mist Fairy''s eyes had narrowed into slits, forcing herself to remain somewhat alert.


    Seeing the Red Luan Demon, Zhong acted without hesitation. He held the Purple Mist Fairy''s body and pushed her forward. As she was propelled forward, the ''Heavenly Thunder Purple Fire'' connected to the purple light quickly approached the Red Luan Demon.


    "No... no...!" the Red Luan Demon cried out in terror.


    "Huff... huff..."


    There was no explosion. In an instant, the Heavenly Thunder Purple Fire enveloped the Red Luan Demon. In just two breaths, the demon''s body turned to ashes.


    "Good... huff... huff..." A faint smile appeared on the Purple Mist Fairy''s face. The thunder and fire swiftly returned, disappearing into her palm.


    At this moment, the Purple Mist Fairy seemed to havepleted everything. She rxedpletely, utterly confused.


    Her graceful body, held in Zhong''s arms, began to move restlessly, panting softly.


    Watching this stunning woman wriggle in his embrace, Zhong felt his breath quicken.


    "Huff... huff..." Zhong''s eyes gradually turned red, a strong possessive desire surged within him.


    Suddenly startled, Zhong wondered, What''s happening to me? Although the Purple Mist Fairy was beautiful, he had seen plenty of beautiful women before. Moreover, his Bao''er was no less attractive than her. Besides, he was already quite old. What''s wrong with me? Why can''t I control myself?


    Zhong, feeling surprised by his own desires, sensed a thread of restraint, as if it kept him lucid. Yet, in his arms was an iparably beautiful woman, continuously tugging at his clothes and showering him with kisses.


    Zhong felt increasingly unable to control himself. His eyes brimmed with desire, and he found himself panting incessantly, the lust seeming to grow stronger.


    But I''m old, eighty years old. What''s happening? Am I still pursuing young women? No, this Purple Mist Fairy''s cultivation might be even older than mine. Perhaps she''s the one pursuing


    As he thought about it, Zhong''sst shred of ritypletely crumbled.


    It seemed Zhong had entered a dream, a spring dream he hadn''t experienced in decades. In this dream, he was the male protagonist, and the former leadingdy, Bao''er, had transformed into the Purple Mist Fairy.

 Chapter 6 - 9: The Celestial Demon Body Tempering Technique

    <h4>Chapter 6: Chapter 9: The Celestial Demon Body Tempering Technique</h4>


    The Cave?


    At the sight of the cave, Old Master Zhong''s eyes lit up. Gripping his small dagger tightly, he leaped swiftly towards the direction of the cave.


    The entrance of the cave was about the height of a person, with walls that seemed to have been polished smooth, forming a stone cave. Though it appeared unremarkable, outside the cave, Old Master Zhong saw countless miasma that repelled any approach.


    Miasma repelled? It was as if a force was continuously resisting the peripheral miasma.


    Seeing this, a heavy feeling settled in Old Master Zhong''s heart. Should he go in?


    Inside, there could be treasures, but at the same time, it could be a disaster. If it were the nest of a fierce beast, entering would mean certain death. If it were an empty cave, there could be treasures inside. However, the earlier sound indicated that there were living creatures inside for sure.


    He was only at the Innate Realm, and the weakest at that. Entering would increase the likelihood of death. So, he decided not to enter. He woulde back when he had the power to protect himself.


    Having made up his mind, Old Master Zhong decisively prepared to leave.


    "Xiong Shen, what are you doing?" Suddenly, a furious shout echoed from within the cave.


    Old Master Zhong paused, tightening his grip on his dagger, and carefully activated his Turtle Breathing Technique, listening intently.


    "What am I doing? Yaying Sword, suppressing this gloomy spring. Today, I''m taking it out. Only one person can obtain it. With the five of us, naturally, four have to die," a fiercely aggressive voice dered.


    "Without us, you can''t retrieve it. Only bybining our strengths can we pull it out. Otherwise, if there''s any negligence, we''ll be devoured by the gloomy spring''s Yin Qi, turning into ashes, never to return. Do you want to die together?" the previous voice angrily retorted.


    "Die? Haha, do you know why I''m called Xiong Shen, the Ferocious God? You all can die. Isn''t it just to magnify my power fivefold? Although I''ll be weakened for a period of time, but, Yaying Sword, from now on, it''s mine, haha," Xiong Shenughed.


    "No~~~~"...


    Three of them shouted unwillingly.


    "Someone outside,e and save me quickly, I''ll give you everything!" Suddenly, a voice from inside shouted.


    "Hmph," Xiong Shen snorted angrily, and the voice from inside abruptly stopped.


    Old Master Zhong nced around, cold sweat pouring down his body. Had he been discovered again?


    If one of the four could detect him, then Xiong Shen could surely detect him too. If he just left like this, there would never be peace again.


    The person inside found him and asked him to save him? With his current cultivation, how could he save anyone? And why didn''t Xiong Shene out to kill him?


    Old Master Zhong quickly weighed the pros and cons. Escape? Or go in?


    Escape. Old Master Zhong believed that Xiong Shen inside must be an extraordinary figure. If he couldn''t escape to Kaiyang Sect, he would be caught up by him. The fact that he hadn''te yet clearly indicated some restraint inside.


    Having quickly judged the situation, Old Master Zhong gripped his small dagger tightly and swiftly stepped inside.


    Inside, it was like a hall, with a fist-sized night pearl in the corner, illuminating the interior brightly.


    Without the other four, there was only one figure in a ck robe. The figure stood motionless, hands stretched out like a zombie. A faint ck aura emanated from him, as if he were practicing some kind of technique.


    Gloomy spring? Yaying Sword? Where were they? The ground below was t, where were the other four? Could it be that this ck-robed figure intentionally lured him in?


    Thinking of this, Old Master Zhong''s heart skipped a beat, his dagger tightening in his hand, growing nervous.


    "Kid, leave now, and I won''t hold it against you. Get lost," the ck-robed figure said.


    Xiong Shen, this person was Xiong Shen. He wanted him to leave? If it were someone ignorant of the world, upon hearing these words, they would run as far as they could. But who was Old Master Zhong? Would he be scared and confused by a single sentence?


    Xiong Shen, he was Xiong Shen. So the other four were indeed dead. As for how they died, where their bodies went, Old Master Zhong didn''t know. He only knew that Xiong Shen was in a critical moment now and couldn''t move.


    Leave? If he left, he would truly die. After Xiong Shen passed this difficult moment, it would be his time to die.


    If the fourpanions weren''t spared, would he be spared?


    With a swift thought, Old Master Zhong made a decision. Strike while the iron''s hot.


    The dagger in his hand was infused with his maximum true qi. From a distance, it swiftly flew towards Xiong Shen.


    Old Master Zhong was, after all, at the Innate Realm, and his strength was terrifying. Coupled with the sharpness of the dagger, even a piece of iron could be pierced through.


    "Boom~~~"


    With a loud bang, the dagger struck Xiong Shen''s throat, but it only left a red mark and was bounced back.


    Terrified, Old Master Zhong gripped the dagger, his mouth dry. Just a red mark from such a blow? Was this person made of iron? No, even if he were made of iron, it wouldn''t be this exaggerated.


    Xiong Shen''s eyes widened, staring fiercely at Old Master Zhong, his eyes shing with disdain and anger. But despite this, he remained motionless.


    Seeing the look in Xiong Shen''s eyes, Old Master Zhong''s conviction grew stronger. If he didn''t kill him now, his own death was assured in the future.


    He couldn''t move?


    Old Master Zhong gathered his courage and walked behind him. Gripping the dagger with all his strength, he stabbed him several times.


    "ng, ng, ng"...


    No effect whatsoever. Not even a bit. Meanwhile, Xiong Shen was burning with rage, bloodshot eyes, sweat beading on his forehead, but still unmoving.


    Old Master Zhong didn''t dare to approach him from the front, but instead poked at him from behind. However, not a single stab broke through Xiong Shen''s skin. The more this happened, the more resolute Old Master Zhong became in his intention to kill him. Otherwise, the consequences would be dire.


    "Kid, you''re dead," Xiong Shen growled fiercely. The infamous Ferocious God of the demonic path, insulted to such an extent.


    After thinking for a moment, Old Master Zhong was sure that Xiong Shen''s body was absolutely indestructible. What to do? Strike his vital points? His nostrils? Eyes? Ears? Or from behind?


    After thinking it over, Old Master Zhong finally made a decision, albeit a bit crude, but life was the most precious.


    Staring at Xiong Shen''s buttocks, aiming at the center, Old Master Zhong fiercely thrust his dagger with all his strength.


    "Crunch~~~"


    With a dull thud, Xiong Shen''s eyes almost popped out, cold sweat beading on his forehead, the muscles on his mouth twitching involuntarily, as he exerted force in his hands.


    "Boom~~~"


    Old Master Zhong saw a ck aura suddenly manifesting in front of Xiong Shen''s hands, extremely dark, seemingly materializing out of thin air, rushing towards Xiong Shen''s palms.


    "No~~~" Xiong Shen cried out in terror.


    At the same time, Old Master Zhong didn''t even have time to pull out his dagger, quickly retreating.


    "Whoosh~~~" The ck aura entered his body, instantly rushing into Xiong Shen''s body.


    Xiong Shen''s face showed a trace of regret, then he died. In an instant, his body seemed to shatter into countless fragments, disappearing in a sh.


    Leaning against the wall, Old Master Zhong looked on in horror. Dead? Gone? Did the other four die like this too?


    Xiong Shen died, dposed into ck smoke, even the dagger connected to him disappeared, turning into smoke? All that was left at the spot where Xiong Shen stood was a piece of ck cloth?


    Gloomy spring? Yin Qi devouring the body? Old Master Zhong looked on in horror. It was too terrifying. Such a powerful body, destroyed by a single attack of Yin Qi? Even his dagger turned to ashes?


    The cave became empty. The once infamous Ferocious God had calcted everything, but perhaps he never expected to die so miserably.


    Looking at the ck cloth on the ground, Old Master Zhong''s cold sweat hadn''t dried yet. The Yin Qi was gone? Everyone was dead. Yaying Sword was not retrieved either. Could this ck cloth resist Yin Qi? What material was it made of? It must be a treasure.


    Should he take it?


    In the end, Old Master Zhong went outside and fetched some branches, throwing them at the ck cloth a few times. Seeing that nothing happened, he dared to grab the ck cloth. Covered with patterns resembling the Red Phoenix Tianjing, it was densely packed with golden threads.


    "Demonic Body Tempering Technique."

 Chapter 7 - Six: The Red Luan Celestial Scripture

    <h4>Chapter 7: Chapter Six: The Red Luan Celestial Scripture</h4>


    On the second day, as the sky grew bright,


    Zhong Laoye slept on a bed of dry leaves, with a long sword trembling at his throat. The wielder of this sword was none other than the Purple Mist Fairy.


    As dawn broke, it was the Purple Mist Fairy who woke first. Upon awakening, she found herself in the embrace of an old man. Sensing the pain in her lower body, she quickly dressed and retrieved a long sword, pointing it at the old man''s throat.


    To this day, the Purple Mist Fairy still did not know the name of this man. Biting her lower lip, tears unconsciously streamed down her face. The initial panic had subsided, reced by hesitation��should she strike?


    Looking at the bloodstain on the old man''s lower body, the Purple Mist Fairy ultimately couldn''t bring herself to act. After a careful examination, she realized his cultivation potential was poor. Perhaps he wouldn''t live much longer anyway. Mortal lives were short; he would perish soon enough. Besides, he had saved her.


    With a deep gaze at the old man, the Purple Mist Fairy stepped on a purple cloud and flew away.


    Looking back, for some unknown reason, the Purple Mist Fairy waved her hand, covering the old man with his clothes. Furthermore, she scattered many stones around him, forming a small array to ward off poisonous insects and snakes. The Purple Mist Fairy didn''t understand why she did this. In her heart, she knew she would never see him again. If he were to be bitten to death by venomous creatures, wouldn''t that be better? Why did she still help him?


    With aplicated heart, the Purple Mist Fairy soon disappeared into the vast sea of clouds.


    It wasn''t until the afternoon of the second day that Zhong Laoye woke up. Startled to find himself naked, he hastily dressed. Seeing the trace of blood below him, Zhong Laoye frowned and immediately recalled everything that had happened before.


    The Purple Mist Fairy?


    With thedy vanished, Zhong Laoye took a moment topose himself. However, he couldn''t shake off the strange feeling regarding the Purple Mist Fairy. Why did fate bring them together so coincidentally? The Kaiyang Sect... why did it all seem so peculiar?


    Once dressed, Zhong Laoye picked up his dragon-headed cane, relieved to find it still with him. With a gentle twist of the dragon''s head, his treasured possession, the red bead, appeared from within the dragon''s mouth.


    After securing it, Zhong Laoye nced around. The ground was littered with debris, and not far awayy a broken de.


    "A broken de?" Zhong Laoye immediately walked over. Considering that the Purple Mist Fairy hadn''t paid much attention to it, perhaps because of reluctance or simply because the de was broken, Zhong Laoye wanted to inspect it closely.


    The Thunderfire had turned Red Luan Old Demon to ashes, yet this de remained only broken?


    Zhong Laoye examined it carefully. He couldn''t bring himself to believe that this heritage de was merely a symbolic item.


    "The fact that it could withstand the Thunderfire indicated that its material must be exceptionally strong," Zhong Laoye thought to himself. Therefore, he decided to keep it forter melting down. Perhaps it could be crafted into other magical treasures. However, what Zhong Laoye didn''t know was that the ability to resist the Thunderfire was originally due to an internal array within the de. But now that the de was broken, the array was destroyed, rendering the de less useful.


    Examining it inch by inch, Zhong Laoye finally noticed the material at the hilt of the de, which seemed to be wrapped in some kind of animal skin. On the skin, there were beautifully engraved characters spelling out ''Red Luan''.


    Gently, Zhong Laoye began to whittle away at the de with the small dagger he had in his pocket. For the Red Luan Sect, this ancestral de was just a symbol of inheritance. Who would dare to damage it like Zhong Laoye was doing?


    Slowly, Zhong Laoye''s eyes lit up with surprise. His little dagger was no ordinary item; it was one of his cherished treasures. Yet, after whittling for half a day, he had only managed to carve out a small hole?


    Patiently, Zhong Laoye continued to whittle away. It took him two hours before he finally managed to open up the animal skin.


    Inside, there was a silk scarf?


    A scarf? Zhong Laoye was ecstatic. He had struck gold.


    He immediately unfolded the scarf. There were many tiny characters densely written on it.


    For Zhong Laoye, who had already studied numerous different fonts for today, the recognition came naturally.


    "The Red Luan Scripture."


    "The Red Luan Scripture?"


    Zhong Laoye looked at the first four words with delight, followed by over eighty thousand characters of content.


    Seeing this scene, Zhong Laoye''s heart leaped with excitement. This was a manual, a martial arts manual. He couldn''t believe it appeared at this moment.


    Even at his age, Zhong Laoye''s memory was remarkable. With over eighty thousand characters, he found a valley and spent three days memorizing it all. Then, he spent another three days repeatedly reciting it to ensure he wouldn''t forget. Zhong Laoye even spent five days reciting it backward from the end to the beginning. After thoroughly memorizing it both forward and backward, Zhong Laoye set it aze with a fire.


    "The Red Luan Scripture" is the supreme secret technique. It''s not a manual for martial arts cultivation, but rather a supreme secret technique for cultivating the power of the mind at the brow chakra��psychic power?


    Zhong Laoye wasn''t clear on how important psychic power was, but he understood that originally, in the Red Luan Sect, the cultivation techniques were not based on the Red Luan Scripture. It was just that the Red Luan Scripture was so extraordinary that it became the namesake of the sect. Moreover, Zhong Laoye didn''t know that each sessive head of the Red Luan Sect only mastered half of the Red Luan Scripture.


    Looking at the ashes of the silk scarf, Zhong Laoye buried the inherited sect sword on the spot. Caution was paramount in all matters.


    Then, leaning on his dragon-headed cane, Zhong Laoye quickly returned to the manor.


    After settling some matters with the steward, Zhong Laoye returned to thend of the Great Kun Kingdom by underground train.


    In the Zhong Manor, Zhong Laoye''s sudden breakthrough and transformation into a forty-year-old astonished everyone. The term "Innate Stage," a legendary name, quickly jumped into the minds of all the servants and adopted sons. Zhong Laoye had reached the Innate Stage?


    However, the eight adopted sons had disappeared, but no one dared to inquire.


    Inside the Zhong Manor, Zhong Laoye sat cross-legged in the practice room.


    The Red Luan Scripture consisted of twelve levels, and Zhong Laoye was refining the first level, known as "Qi Awakening."


    Following the prescribed method, Zhong Laoye remained in the Zhong Manor for two months. Finally, hepleted the so-called Qi Awakening. Sitting cross-legged, Zhong Laoye held his palms out, and a faint red mist floated within, elusive yet discernible.


    The Red Luan Mist, the world''s number one aphrodisiac? Zhong Laoye observed this scene, a hint of strangeness shing in his eyes.


    With a flip of his hand, the Red Luan Mist vanished. However, at the center of Zhong Laoye''s brow, there was a sense of fulfillment. Gently, Zhong Laoye, ording to the description in the Red Luan Scripture, gradually began to perceive a small space within his brow.


    Within this small space, waves of pink translucent energy gently rotated. This energy seemed both tangible and intangible, extraordinarily peculiar. With delicate control, Zhong Laoye used this pink translucent energy to probe his body. It felt as if it could prate objects, allowing him to see the meridians within his body.


    Divine consciousness? Zhong Laoye thought, surprised by the vague memory in his mind. No, not divine consciousness. This was psychic power. But what was the difference between psychic power and divine consciousness?


    <strong>Zhong </strong>couldn''t understand it, so he would have to think about it slowly in the future. He knew that with a little true energy, mixed with this pink psychic power and gently catalyzed, it would turn into the Red Luan Mist.


    This psychic power was extremely miraculous.


    Suppressing the excitement and joy in his heart, Zhong Laoye stood up gently. The first level of the Red Luan Scripture was best practiced now. The subsequent levels would be increasingly difficult. It was impossible to practice them in a short time. For now, psychic power was secondary. The most important thing was to practice the cultivation technique of the Innate Realm.


    Carefully, Zhong Laoye lifted the cushion and looked at the bricks underneath. Slowly, he lifted the bricks, revealing a small hiddenpartment.


    Inside thepartment was a small purple wooden box.


    Zhong Laoye took out the small purple wooden box very carefully, wiped it with his sleeve, and then slowly opened it. Inside was a small jade pendant, emitting colorful rays of light. There was a prohibition on the jade pendant, and only special techniques could break the internal prohibition. Otherwise, forcibly breaking it would destroy whatever was stored inside the jade pendant.


    Next to it was a piece of white cloth, on which many lines were drawn, along with some mountain and river diagrams. This was a map. Although Zhong Laoye had deeply engraved this map in his mind, he had still been very careful when he first drew it.


    Zhong Laoye remembered the person who had handed him the jade pendant. It was a man in a disheveled gray robe.


    "Now, many people are chasing me, and I can''t escape. Deliver this jade pendant to the head of the Kaiyang Sect. He will grant you a not-too-difficult request," the man in the gray robe said urgently.


    "Can you allow me to join the Kaiyang Sect?" Zhong Laoye asked eagerly.


    After a deep look at Zhong Laoye, the man in the gray robe said, "As long as you reach the Innate Realm, you can."


    "Where?" Zhong Laoye''s eyes lit up, asking eagerly.


    The man in the gray robe pped the ground, and on the soil, the route to the Kaiyang Sect was imprinted, which was the pattern copied by Zhong Laoye onto the white cloth.


    Afterpleting everything, the man in the gray robe flew up into the sky and disappeared in front of Zhong Laoye. At the same time, Zhong Laoye saw in the sky, more than a dozen beams of light shooting off in one direction.


    Looking again at the small jade pendant in his hand, Zhong Laoye''s eyes shed with excitement. The Innate Realm, the Innate Realm, he would definitely be able to join the Kaiyang Sect.

 Chapter 8 - Seven: Demonic Beasts

    <h4>Chapter 8: Chapter Seven: Demonic Beasts</h4>


    Carefully tucking the jade pendant into his chest, Mr. Zhong let out a long sigh. A strong sense of confidence surged in his eyes.


    With a gentle wave of his hand, a shadow suddenly appeared in front of Mr. Zhong. The shadow was as tall as him, gradually taking on a recognizable form. It resembled Mr. Zhong''s elderly appearance before he reached the innate realm. With another gentle flick, the appearance slowly transformed, bing younger and resembling his current self.


    At forty years old, Mr. Zhong, for reasons unknown to him, appeared to be in his forties or fifties previously, but after the night with Purple Xun Fairy, his face seemed to have rejuvenated significantly, appearing to be around forty years old again.


    Looking at the figure in front of him, which resembled him exactly, Mr. Zhong let out a deep breath.


    "A spatial shadow? It looks exactly like me. Two of me. I have two bodies," Mr. Zhong remarked with a smile.


    This was the unique ability Mr. Zhong had mastered through traversing space��a single person controlling two bodies. This spatial shadow could even transform into a shadow, passing through gaps as thin as door cracks and hiding within the shadows of others, an incredibly magical ability.


    Of course, this was a special power. Under the effect of light and shadow, Mr. Zhong and this spatial shadow could still cast shadows, but the spatial shadow was quite unique. It was simr to the avatars described in Earth novels from decades ago, akin to the legendary second soul, and even resembled a peculiar magical artifact. However, it was far more extraordinary than any of these.


    Thus, Mr. Zhong decided to rename his two bodies: the main body and the shadow body.


    "In this way, the shadow body will stay in Zhong Mansion. If the old guys from the Kaiyang Sect notice anything unusual, it would be troublesome. The Hongluan Heavenly Sutra can''t be practiced by the shadow body, so I''ll have to find another cultivation method for itter. However, as long as the main body is alive, the shadow body won''t perish. The red pearl will be safeguarded by the shadow body, while the main body heads to the Kaiyang Sect," Mr. Zhong nned for his two bodies.


    The two bodies embraced each other. The main body then stepped on a spot on the ground, revealing an underground entrance. After adjusting his clothes and carrying the jade piece, the main body descended. Once he was below, the entrance closed up again.


    The shadow body resumed sitting on the meditation mat, continuing to practice and regte its breath. With the main body having reached the innate stage, the shadow body no longer had any restrictions and would soon reach the innate stage as well.


    The main body of Mr. Zhong ventured into the underground, where there was a railway tunnel. As the saying goes, a cunning rabbit has three burrows, and Mr. Zhong was no less prudent. His secrets were beyond the grasp of his adopted sons.


    After a ten-day train journey, he arrived at another estate, which was also one of his properties. This estate was situated near a vast mountain range, where the Kaiyang Sect was located. It wasn''t that Mr. Zhong didn''t want to extend the railway into the mountains, but the mountains here were filled with countless sturdy minerals. Even a hundred years of effort would only prate a few mountains.


    He rested at the estate for two days, preparing everything he needed. After giving the final instructions to the steward, Mr. Zhong packed a bundle, grabbed arge knife, and set off on foot into the deep mountains.


    Behind the estatey an endless expanse of mountains, rarely traversed by people. The area was infested with poisonous insects, toxic nts, pervasive miasma, and numerous lurking fierce beasts. There were also frequent sightings of demons. Without being at the innate stage, Mr. Zhong wouldn''t dare to venture alone.


    These mountains were truly towering, with peaks of several thousand meters being amon sight. In the distance, one could see mountains piercing through the clouds. Mr. Zhong had to traverse these towering peaks to reach the depths of the mountains where the Kaiyang Sect resided.


    As an innate stage martial artist, Mr. Zhong''s agility had greatly improved, allowing him to leap over mountains effortlessly. Along the way, he encountered poisonous insects and nts, but he managed to avoid them all. However, the distance to the Kaiyang Sect was too great, and by evening, he had to find a ce to rest.


    By dusk, Mr. Zhong found a rtively clean valley. This meant that the grass was sparse, there were few poisonous insects and nts, no miasma, and norge beasts roaming around. In the valley, there was a small mountain recess, justrge enough to shelter one person from the wind and rain. Any more would not fit. After clearing the area and sprinkling some special repent around the entrance, Mr. Zhong sat cross-legged inside.


    Lighting a fire was out of the question; it would have exposed him to danger. On Earth, many wild animals feared fire, but here, the beasts and even the demonic creatures might not have the same aversion. Mr. Zhong sat quietly in the recess, waiting for dawn.


    As the night wore on, a piercing howl echoed through the valley.


    "Awooo~~~"


    In the dead of night, the high-pitched cry of a wolf pierced through the silence of the valley. Furrowing his brows, Mr. Zhong opened his eyes and gazed outward.


    At this moment, the full moon overhead cast an extraordinary silver light over the valley. The source of the howl seemed to emanate from the mountaintop, catching Mr. Zhong''s attention.


    A silver giant wolf stood atop the mountain, towering three meters tall. It lifted its head to the moon and howled, and in that moment, the entire wolf seemed to shimmer with an ethereal silver glow. It wasn''t just reflecting light��it was as if it was absorbing the moonlight itself.


    Monster?


    Seeing this scene, Mr. Zhong''s pupils contracted as he immediately recognized it as a demonic beast.


    With this realization, Mr. Zhong''s heart skipped a beat. He quickly retreated and activated the Turtle Breath technique, hoping to remain unseen by the massive wolf.


    Mr. Zhong knew that demonic beasts, creatures beyond ordinary animals, were at least as powerful as humans who had reached the Innate Realm. And he had only just advanced to the Innate Realm himself, being the weakest at that level. Moreover, hecked the corresponding techniques of the Innate Realm, relying only on his previous martial arts skills. If he had techniques suited for the Innate Realm, perhaps he could put up a fight. But now, it was clear that hiding was his only option, hoping the wolf hadn''t spotted him.


    However, could the wolf rely solely on its sense of smell? A wolf''s nose was extremely sensitive. After the moon''s howl and its absorption of moonlight, it immediately turned its gaze downward to the valley, its eyes gleaming with a cold light.


    The ce was a frequent haunt of the Silver Wolf, and with the presence of a living being, it immediately sensed it. Moreover, at the entrance of the ravine where Mr. Zhong was, he had sprinkled medicinal herbs to repel poisonous insects, emitting a strong odor that instantly caught the Silver Wolf''s attention.


    With a few leaps, the Silver Wolf arrived at Mr. Zhong''s ravine and fixed its gaze on him. Sensing the approach of the Silver Wolf and its gaze upon him, Mr. Zhong knew he had been discovered and couldn''t escape. He had been found out.


    Mr. Zhong shrank back in fear, but to the Silver Wolf, it was an amusing sight. It had been a while since it had tasted human flesh.


    Without warning, the Silver Wolf lunged at Mr. Zhong. Unable to evade it, Mr. Zhong quickly drew hisrge sword to defend himself.


    "Boom boom boom������������������"


    The Silver Wolf kept wing at Mr. Zhong in the mountain hollow. However, Mr. Zhong had chosen his location well. The massive body of the Silver Wolf couldn''t fit inpletely.


    The Silver Wolf extended its ws, and its huge wolf head squeezed inward, as if about to bite Mr. Zhong at any moment.


    The situation became extremely dire. The surrounding rocks kept shaking, indicating that it wouldn''t be long before this part of the mountain was worn down, allowing the Silver Wolf to reach Mr. Zhong.


    Mr. Zhong quickly infused his sword with true energy and thrust it towards the Silver Wolf.


    "Hiss������������������������"


    It only managed to scratch the surface.


    "Ow����������������������������������������������������"


    The Silver Wolf howled in pain, and with a swipe of its w, it knocked the sword away.


    "ng��������������������������"


    Mr. Zhong felt a numbness in his hand as the sword was knocked out of his grip. No sword?


    The stabbing pain from the broadsword drove the Silver Wolf into a frenzy. Its eyes turned red as it pressed closer to the mountain hollow. Countless rocks fell, as if it could devour Mr. Zhong at any moment.


    Pressed against the mountain wall, Mr. Zhong could already smell the foul breath of the Silver Wolf, its jaws just inches away from him. It was getting closer and closer.


    The sensation of death overwhelmed Mr. Zhong. If the rocks here were to break, he would surely meet his end. What should he do? His dagger? He still had that dagger, obtained from a cultivator. Maybe it could work. But it was in his pocket, and any movement might attract the attention of the Silver Wolf.


    The dagger won''t work. True Qi, the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture?


    I''ll take a gamble.


    Channeling his True Qi into his hand, he infused it with a wisp of Red Luan energy. Instantly, arge amount of pink mist erupted from his palm. Under his control, the small mountain hollow quickly filled with Red Luan mist��known as the world''s most potent aphrodisiac.


    The silver wolf continued its charge, but soon it started to feel something was wrong. Its breathing grew rapid andbored. The eyes, already glowing red, now took on an even deeper hue, but this redness seemed different from before.


    In the wolf''s mind, countless visions of female wolves shed by. An overwhelming desire surged within. What''s happening? I was about to eat a human, so why am I suddenly yearning for a mate?


    The wolf charged again but soon could no longer endure the effects. It turned and fled rapidly, its eyes still glowing red, retreating deep into the mountains.


    The danger was averted.


    "Whoosh��"


    Zhong Laoyezi let out a long sigh of relief, his eyes filled with astonishment. Grabbing the saber that the wolf had knocked away, he quickly shouldered his pack and left the area. This ce was no longer safe; it was best to leave as quickly as possible.

 Chapter 9 - 8: The Attack of the Cold Crows

    <h4>Chapter 9: Chapter 8: The Attack of the Cold Crows</h4>


    On the third day, Elder Zhong''s clothes were tattered and torn, yet he resolutely continued his journey into the mountains.


    Standing atop a mountain peak, Elder Zhong surveyed the surroundingndscape. To the left, dense miasma filled the spaces between the chain of mountains, obscuring the environment within. The terrifying ck miasma had driven away many of the wild beasts and demonic creatures from that area.


    To the right, a grand river flowed north to south, its mighty current awe-inspiring.


    "Hoo����������������������������������������," he exhaled deeply. ording to the map, he was on the right path. If he maintained his current pace, he would reach the Kaiyang Sect in two months.


    Gazing into the distance, Elder Zhong leaped down the mountain in a few swift bounds and prepared to continue northward. However, as soon as he reached the base of the mountain, he paused abruptly.


    "Trees broken? Grass ttened? Was there a fight here? And judging by the signs, a pretty intense one," Elder Zhong thought to himself.


    Feeling a bit tense, Elder Zhong continued to follow the traces of the battle. Before long, he came upon a corpse.


    "A wolf''s carcass? Could it be that silver wolf from yesterday?" Elder Zhong was startled. He quickly approached the body. The silver wolf was covered in wounds, deep gashes that looked like they had been made by sharp des. Furthermore, its body was encased in ayer of frost and snow.


    "Frozen?" Elder Zhong looked up at the sky. Although it wasn''t summer, the sun was shining brightly, making it impossible for ice to form.


    After examining the silver wolf for a while, Elder Zhong found the cut he had made with his own de and confirmed that this was indeed the wolf that had tried to eat him the other day.


    "The silver wolf is dead? Killed by a stronger beast? Maybe it attacked some other demon beast and got itself killed in the process?" This thought sent a chill through Elder Zhong''s heart. He cautiously scanned the surroundings. Once he was sure there were no other demon beasts nearby, he quickly took out a small dagger and sliced open the wolf''s belly.


    The dagger was small but much sharper than hisrge de. Even though the silver wolf had thick skin, it was dead and no longer had its demonic aura to protect it. After a stick of incense''s time, Elder Zhong finally managed to cut through.


    The insides were frozen stiff. After rummaging for a while, Elder Zhong found a small, silver bead the size of a fingertip.


    "An inner elixir, the silver wolf''s inner elixir." The primary distinction between demon beasts and wild beasts is the presence of an inner elixir. Demon beasts possess an inner elixir, while wild beasts do not.


    Demon beasts absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth and the essence of the sun and moon through their inner elixirs. Although this small inner elixir was likely considered low-grade by other cultivators, for Elder Zhong, it was a treasure.


    Carefully storing it away, Elder Zhong continued his journey into the mountains.


    "Wow����������������������������������������"


    At this moment, a sudden "caw" rang out above Elder Zhong''s head.


    Startled, Elder Zhong looked up and saw a crow��no, a white crow. A Cold Crow? Its wingspan reached over two meters.


    A Cold Crow? A demon beast?


    The Cold Crow was staring directly at Elder Zhong, its eyes turning red, as if he were its mortal enemy.


    Seeing this, Elder Zhong realized something was wrong. A Cold Crow? Frosty breath? Could it have been the one that froze the silver wolf?


    "Caw����������������"


    The Cold Crow let out a cry and spewed a st of white breath toward Elder Zhong.


    Seeing the frosty breath, Elder Zhong instinctively dodged. The breath hit arge tree, and in an instant, the tree was covered in frost and snow, frozen solid.


    Run! Run fast!


    Grabbing hisrge de, Elder Zhong dashed through the dense forest. The thick woods provided him with much-needed cover.


    As he fled, the Cold Crow relentlessly pursued him. No matter where he ran, it followed. In some open areas, it even spat more frosty breath, trying to freeze him to death.


    Several times, Elder Zhong barely escaped the icy breath, but even the near misses left his arm feeling numb.


    This is bad, really bad. At this rate, the Cold Crow will wear me down to death. After more than an hour of desperate fleeing, with the Cold Crow hot on his heels, Elder Zhong''s anxiety grew.


    Suddenly, another Cold Crow flew toward him. Two Cold Crows?


    Now two Cold Crows were chasing him.


    Elder Zhong''srge de had been lost somewhere, but he didn''t have the time to worry about it. Running was all that mattered now. But could he outrun them? Two Cold Crows. There were two now.


    Thinking of this, Elder Zhong steeled himself. As he ran, he reached into his robes with his slightly frozen right arm and pulled out a ck pill.


    A Miasma Avoidance Pill!


    Elder Zhong quickly popped the pill into his mouth, changed direction, and dashed toward the miasma-filled area on the left.


    The Miasma Avoidance Pill was something Elder Zhong hadmissioned many renowned medical experts to create, the pinnacle of what he could achieve with mortal means.


    The pill was designed to protect against a hundred different kinds of miasma, but Elder Zhong wasn''t sure if it would work in this particr area.


    Outside, if he didn''t get killed by the two Cold Crows��or potentially more of theming��his only option was to gamble on the miasma.


    As he fled toward the miasma zone, Elder Zhong''s feet suddenly felt stiff, and his shoes were already covered in frost and snow.


    "Whoosh����������������"


    He darted into the miasma zone.


    "Caw����������������" "Caw����������������"...


    The two Cold Crows were indeed reluctant to enter the miasma area and kept screeching outside.


    Am I safe? Really safe?


    Elder Zhong wiped the sweat from his forehead and used his inner energy to expel the cold from his arms and legs. Looking at the Cold Crows circling outside, unwilling to leave, he felt a wave of fear. This mountain was too perilous. If he hadn''t reached the Innate Stage, he would have been dead by now.


    At that moment, Elder Zhong felt a bit dizzy.


    Dizzy? Is the Miasma Avoidance Pill not working?


    Fear gripped him as he quickly started circting his energy to expel toxins. In the brief moment it took, the miasma had already infiltrated his body, and his arm was slowly turning ck.


    Seeing his hands, Elder Zhong grew even more anxious. The Cold Crows were circling outside, refusing to leave. What should he do?


    Although he could use his energy to resist to some extent, the miasma continued to seep into his body.


    But then Elder Zhong noticed that although his arms were bing numb, his head was only slightly dizzy, and he still had some awareness.


    Awareness?


    Upon realizing this, Elder Zhong''s heart brightened. He quickly began circting the Red Luan Heavenly Sutra. As he did, a pink protective aura formed around him. Although it had no ability to block physical attacks, it effectively repelled the miasma.


    "Red Luan Mist? Can the Red Luan Mist actually block miasma?"


    Seeing this, Elder Zhong felt a surge of joy. He rapidly directed his mind power, merging it with his inner energy to form the Red Luan Mist, continuously expelling the miasma from his body.


    Within moments, the poison was entirely purged from his system.


    Outside, the two Cold Crows still refused to leave. What now? The Red Luan Heavenly Sutra was only at its first level and couldn''t be sustained indefinitely.


    No, I must leave quickly. I need to traverse this miasma zone, climb over that small hill, and get out of the Cold Crows'' sight before continuing on my journey.


    Determined, Elder Zhong swiftly ran north.


    Soon, he reached the base of the small hill. Once over this hill, he would be out of the Cold Crows'' sight.


    As he climbed, he suddenly heard a thudding sound.


    A sound? It came from the base of this hill. Elder Zhong narrowed his eyes and stood still, carefully observing. Decades of building a business empire had taught him that even the slightest, easily overlooked anomaly often signified a significant opportunity. If grasped well, it could lead to immense profit; if it led to nothing, there would be no loss.


    This was a small mound, situated in a steep valley. It appeared almost man-made, as the mountain itself was full of hard rocks, but the soil beneath the mound wasrgely devoid of stones.


    Seeing this peculiar formation strengthened Elder Zhong''s curiosity. Although the Red Luan Heavenly Sutra couldn''t be sustained for long, he still searched around. Soon, in a very concealed corner, he discovered a cave.

 Chapter 10: The Kaiyang Sect

    <h4>Chapter 10: The Kaiyang Sect</h4>


    Tianmo Body Tempering Technique?


    Upon seeing this, Old Man Zhong''s eyes lit up.


    The <strong>Tianmo Body Tempering Technique</strong> consisted of over thirty thousand characters. Just as he had done when he first encountered the Hongluan Heavenly Scripture, Old Man Zhong spent five days in this mountain cave memorizing the entire technique.


    The Tianmo Body Tempering Technique was not a traditional cultivation method; rather, it was an auxiliary technique designed to stimtetent potential. By channeling true qi and true essence, depending on their strength, one could use the Tianmo Body Tempering Technique to erupt with a burst of power, exerting several times one''s usual strength for the duration of one hour, based on the level of mastery.


    The technique had twelve levels. If one mastered the twelfth level, they could exert up to thirteen times their normal strength. Such an extraordinary ability was indeed astonishing.


    However, after using the technique for one hour, the practitioner would need to undergo a period of weakness,sting from one to five days. During this time, their strength would drop to less than half of its original capacity, sometimes even to just ten percent. Only after passing this period of weakness would everything return to normal.


    Unlike other simr techniques, the Tianmo Body Tempering Technique had a unique feature: the energy rapidly consumed during its use was not entirely lost. Instead, it transformed into a force that tempered and strengthened the body, akin to a demonic beast''s enhancement. This peculiarity filled Old Man Zhong with immense excitement.


    <strong>Tianmo Body Tempering Technique?</strong>


    It didn''t conflict with other techniques and could be practiced alongside them? Since he had already memorized all thirty thousand characters, what should he do with this ck cloth? Pass it down to future generations? Nonsense, of course, he needed to destroy it.


    But how? The Yin energy couldn''t corrode it, so what could be done?


    Regardless, he decided to give it a try. Old Man Zhong took out a fire starter and gently touched it to the cloth.


    "Sizzle sizzle sizzle..."


    The ck cloth actually caught fire!


    Watching this scene, Old Man Zhong''s mouth hung open. The Yin energy couldn''t destroy it, but a small me could easily set it aze?


    As he watched the ck cloth slowly turn to ashes, Old Man Zhong felt a great sense of relief. ncing around, he removed the fist-sized luminous pearl from its ce. The pearl was free of dust, clearly brought by the demonic beings.


    He exited the cave and took onest look back at it. Old Man Zhong had no intention of staying there any longer; if anyone else came, he would be doomed. He gathered some stones to block the cave entrance andmitted its location to memory. Then, he climbed over the mountain and continued heading north.


    Finding a more secluded valley, Old Man Zhong buried the luminous pearl in a hidden spot. Regardless of its value, he didn''t n to carry it with him, fearing it might be recognizedter. He decided he would retrieve it once he had more strength.


    Seeking a quiet ce, Old Man Zhong practiced the first level of the Tianmo Body Tempering Technique. Like the Hongluan Heavenly Scripture, the first level was the easiest to master. After a month, he had grasped its essence. However, he didn''t test its effects out of curiosity; he knew that if he entered the weakened state and encountered another fierce beast, he would be finished.


    For now, reaching the Kaiyang Sect was his priority.


    Traversing mountains and rivers, he quickly made his way toward the Kaiyang Sect. Along the way, he encountered several more demonic beasts. Luck was on his side; on one asion, he faced a ck panther demon. If he hadn''t used the Tianmo Body Tempering Technique to double his strength and the Hongluan Mist to poison the panther, he would have been utterly defeated.


    After using the Tianmo Body Tempering Technique once, his body indeed felt weak for a day, but he quickly recovered. Additionally, his body had be significantly tougher.


    A month and a halfter, wearing tattered clothes and carrying a small bundle, Old Man Zhong finally arrived at the gates of the Kaiyang Sect.


    The sect was located within a mist-shrouded mountain range. The ethereal appearance of the mountains suggested the presence of a powerful formation. Outside the mountain gate stood a celestial monument, or rather, arge stone mountain that had been split in half. On its smooth surface were three characters, written in a majestic and domineering style:


    "<strong>Kaiyang Sect</strong>"


    This was the entrance to the Kaiyang Sect. The area around the celestial monument was vast and open; even high-level demonic beasts dared not approach without permission. Apart from the monument, there was a small thatched hut not far away, with a vegetable garden outside.


    As Old Man Zhong focused his gaze on the hut, its door suddenly opened. An elder with white hair, looking even older than Old Man Zhong had been, slowly walked out. When he saw Old Man Zhong, a strange gleam shed in his cloudy eyes, and he walked over gently.


    "What business do you have here?" the white-haired elder asked indifferently.


    "Younger Zhong Shan pays respects to the elder," Old Man Zhong promptly replied.


    "Zhong Shan?" The elder paused, trying to recall, but could not remember who Zhong Shan was. He looked at Zhong Shan again.


    "May I ask, esteemed elder, if you are a member of the Kaiyang Sect?" Zhong Shan asked respectfully.


    "Indeed, I am the guardian and receptionist of the Kaiyang Sect. What is your business here?" The white-haired elder''s tone was calm, as if the sudden appearance of a stranger did not stir even the slightest ripple in his heart.


    Seeing the elder''s indifferent attitude, Zhong Shan furrowed his brow, his mind racing with thoughts. Though Old Man Zhong''s cultivation might be far weaker than these cultivators, he possessed a quality that was in no way inferior to those lofty practitioners.


    The heart of Old Man Zhong, over fifty-five years, though not long, had weathered numerous storms in the mundane world, granting him profound insights into human nature. At this moment, his heart was clear and perceptive. He couldn''t believe that the old man before him, if he truly was just a mountain guardian receptionist as imed, would exhibit such an attitude.


    "May I inquire your esteemed name?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "A name? What name could I possibly have? My cultivation is iplete, and I am nearing the end of my journey. Here, I simply guard the mountain and receive guests, living out the remainder of my days. You may call me ''Mountain Guardian,''" the white-haired elder replied with a faint smile.


    "Respected Mountain Guardian, I am Zhong Shan. I have been entrusted by a senior of the Kaiyang Sect to deliver a jade token to the Sect Master and convey a message from the senior," Zhong Shan said.


    "A jade token?" the Mountain Guardian furrowed his brow.


    Zhong Shan swiftly retrieved the jade token from his chest, handling it with extreme care.


    Upon seeing the jade token, the Mountain Guardian''s cloudy eyes paused for a moment. He reached out, as if to grasp it in his hand, but in that fleeting moment, his eyes returned to their cloudy state, and he nodded to Zhong Shan.


    "Give me the token, and I will inform them," the Mountain Guardian nodded.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded in response.


    The Mountain Guardian''s momentary change did not escape Zhong Shan''s notice, but he chose not to expose it, merely storing his suspicions in his heart.


    After taking the token, the Mountain Guardian slowly walked toward the nearby foot of the mountain. Then, with a flicker, he disappeared before Zhong Shan''s eyes, evidently entering the grand formation.


    Zhong Shan waited patiently outside the formation until the time it took for an incense stick to burn.


    Suddenly, three figures flew out from within the distant formation.


    They all treaded on clouds, with a man in daoist robes at the center. He appeared to be around sixty years old, holding the jade token Zhong Shan had brought. To his left was a woman in white daoist robes who seemed older but still exuded elegance. On his right was a middle-aged man with sharp eyebrows and starry eyes.


    As the three emerged from the formation, they all frowned at Zhong Shan.


    "You must be Zhong Shan, the one who delivered the jade token?" the central elder stared at Zhong Shan with a furrowed brow.


    "Yes, esteemed elders," Zhong Shan immediately bowed.


    "Hmm,e with me to the Kaiyang Hall," the elder said, still frowning.


    With a wave of his hand, a white cloud suddenly appeared beneath Zhong Shan''s feet, carrying him along as they entered the grand formation together.


    The cloud followed a peculiar route, flying for a while until they reached the inner area. Though the scenery within was still mountainous, it was vastly different from the outside, as if the exterior was a grand illusion.


    Inside, there were valleys, waterfalls,kes, bamboo forests, houses, and various other structures.


    Flying swiftly, they soon arrived at the summit of a tall mountain, where a vast square and a massive pce stood.


    The four of them flew directly into the pce. Upon entering, Zhong Shan saw the que hanging above the pce entrance.


    "Kaiyang Hall."


    Inside the hall, there was no one to be seen.

 Chapter 11: Cloud Somersault Technique

    <h4>Chapter 11: Cloud Somersault Technique</h4>


    Inside the Kaiyang Hall, it seemed as if everyone had been dismissed beforehand. Within the grand hall, there were only Zhong Shan and the other three individuals who had flown on clouds moments ago.


    As they entered, the three men fixed their gaze on Zhong Shan, as if scrutinizing him closely.


    "I am Zhong Shan, and I pay my respects to the three esteemed elders," Zhong Shan spoke first.


    "I am Tianxingzi, the current Sect Master of the Kaiyang Sect. This is my junior sister, Gufengzi, the Peak Master of the Snow Bamboo Peak, and this is my junior brother, Xuanxinzi, the Peak Master of the me Mountain Peak. Where did you obtain this jade token?" the elder in daoist robes stared at Zhong Shan.


    "One evening, I was resting in the courtyard of my home when a venerable person entered and asked me to bring him to the Kaiyang Sect. He said the Sect Master would fulfill a simple request of mine," Zhong Shan exined, recounting every detail about the person''s appearance, voice, tone, and every word spoken, exactly as it had happened.


    After hearing Zhong Shan''s ount, the three of them fully believed him. They exchanged nces before turning their gaze back to Zhong Shan.


    "What is your request?" Tianxingzi asked.


    Upon hearing Tianxingzi''s question, Zhong Shan immediately knelt down and said, "I am Zhong Shan. I wish to join the Kaiyang Sect. I hope the Sect Master will grant my request."


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s request and considering the circumstances he had described earlier, the three of them unconsciously released their divine senses and carefully inspected Zhong Shan.


    "Did you consume elixirs to reach the Innate Realm?" Tianxingzi furrowed his brow and asked.


    "Yes, not long ago, I obtained a ''Breaking Barrier Pill'' and reached the Innate Realm," Zhong Shan answered truthfully.


    The three exchanged nces, and both Xuanxinzi and Gufengzi couldn''t help but frown. It was evident that they did not hold Zhong Shan''s aptitude in high regard.


    Seeing his junior brother and sister''s reactions, Tianxingzi could only shake his head and smile. "In that case, you may join us and cultivate alongside the other Innate Realm cultivators. If any of the second-generation disciples take an interest in you, then we will consider epting you as a disciple."


    "Thank you, Sect Master," Zhong Shan eximed joyfully.


    One monthter.


    Zhong Shan sat in meditation with closed eyes.


    Now, Zhong Shan was officially a member of the Kaiyang Sect. The Kaiyang Sect consisted of three branches: Kaiyang Peak, me Mountain Peak, and Snow Bamboo Peak. Gufengzi presided over Snow Bamboo Peak, which exclusively recruited female disciples. Xuanxinzi presided over me Mountain Peak, which exclusively recruited male disciples. The Sect Master, Tianxingzi, presided over Kaiyang Peak, which mainly consisted of male disciples, though asional female disciples were also epted.


    In the Kaiyang Sect, both the Sect Master and the Peak Masters had reached the Yuanying Stage, representing the first generation of disciples. Those in the Foundation Establishment Stage were considered second-generation disciples, while those in the Innate Stage were third-generation disciples. However, in the Kaiyang Sect, strength was paramount. If one''s cultivation advanced, a third-generation disciple could instantly be a second-generation disciple, or even a first-generation disciple.


    Zhong Shan was currently a third-generation disciple. Over the past month, he had been diligently cultivating while awaiting the return of the Kaiyang Sect members.


    The Dragon Gate Assembly was not only held where Zhong Shan had previously visited, but also in other locations. Members of the Kaiyang Sect scattered in all directions to seek out potential disciples.


    This month marked the return of all Kaiyang Sect members.


    Zhong Shan had heard of Zixun Fairy, who was said to be a member of the Kaiyang Sect, but he dared not ask.


    Gently waking from his meditation, Zhong Shan tidied his clothes and opened the door, slowly making his way toward a distant za.


    This za was located beneath Kaiyang Peak, where all the newly recruited disciples were gathering today.


    When Zhong Shan arrived, there were already over twenty people who had recently reached the Innate Realm or were on the verge of reaching it, gathered in the za. A young man in a purple robe was directing them.


    "You, stand over here, line up properly. Our senior uncles and senior brothers will being here shortly," the young man in the purple robe called out.


    Zhong Shan immediately positioned himself, followed by the gradual arrival of over twenty more people.


    Finally, when all the newly recruited individuals had assembled, Zhong Shan did a quick count. There were a total of fifty-six people. This time, the Kaiyang Sect had recruited fifty-six disciples.


    Once everyone was in ce, the young man in the purple robe began to speak, "From today onwards, you are all members of the Kaiyang Sect. Your previous master-apprentice rtionships established at the Dragon Gate Assemblies are now null and void. Remember, you are third-generation disciples. If you wish to be noticed by the second-generation or even the first-generation disciples, you must diligently cultivate and reach the sixth level of the Innate Realm, forming your true essence. Only then will you have the chance to be epted as disciples by the seniors. Otherwise, you will remain third-generation disciples for life."


    "Yes," the crowd immediately responded.


    Seeing the neers so cooperative, the young man in the purple robe felt a sense of satisfaction.


    "I am also in the Innate Realm, but I have already reached the seventh level. I am your ninth senior brother, Nan Batian. Today, I will exin some things to you. Our Kaiyang Sect has many residences, each with its own courtyard. You will cultivate individually to break through as soon as possible. Over there, do you see that Scripture Pavilion?" Nan Batian pointed to a distant small pce.


    "Yes," everyone replied.


    "Inside, there are numerous cultivation techniques for the Innate Realm disciples. Each person is given ten days to search for the techniques they need. You are not allowed to transcribe them, only to memorize the ones you choose and practice them on your own. After ten days, you are not permitted to enter again. Every year, we will open the Scripture Pavilion for ten days, and only then will you be allowed to enter again to select techniques. Is that clear?" Nan Batian exined.


    "Crystal clear," the neers immediately responded.


    Seeing the neers behaving this way, Nan Batian also felt a sense of pride.


    "Little Nan, are you imitating my father''s way of instructing people again?" Suddenly, a jarring voice interrupted Nan Batian''s pride.


    Everyone turned to look and saw a girl dressed in red, exuding youthful energy like a porcin doll. She descended gracefully onto the square, her face carrying a mischievous look as she observed Nan Batian lecturing the group of neers.


    "Sister..." Nan Batian''s previously proud expression instantly turned sour.


    "Huh?" The porcin doll girl narrowed her eyes at Nan Batian.


    "Sister..." Nan Batian forced a smile.


    "Mm," the porcin doll girl replied smugly.


    "Ling''er," amanding voice suddenly came from above.


    Everyone looked up and saw the sect master and two peak masters descending on clouds, followed by about twenty others riding on magic treasures. The one who had spoken earlier was the Kaiyang Sect''s sect master, Tian Xingzi.


    "Dad, it''s no big deal. It''s the rule of the Kaiyang Sect. Whoever has higher cultivation and seniority gets to be the boss. I''m already at the eighth level of the Innate Realm. Is it wrong for me to be Little Nan''s senior sister?" the porcin doll girl immediately expressed her dissatisfaction.


    "Alright, let''s not talk about this. You shouldn''t speak," Tian Xingzi shook his head, seemingly helpless with his daughter.


    "Mm," the porcin doll girl immediately stood behind Tian Xingzi.


    Tian Ling''er? Everyone took a nce at the porcin doll girl. So, this was the sect master''s daughter.


    After inspecting the fifty-six newly recruited disciples, Tian Xingzi said, "As Nan Batian has already informed you,ter on, you will go to the Scripture Pavilion to choose your cultivation techniques. Then, you will cultivate individually. One year from now, we will gather again to assess your progress."


    "Yes," everyone responded promptly.


    "Mm," Tian Xingzi nodded.


    Then, Tian Xingzi, Xuanxinzi, and Gushuangzi gave some instructions to the people behind them. The second-generation disciples nodded in agreement, then turned to look at Zhong Shan nearby, apparently referring to the incident with the jade token earlier.


    Tian Ling''er, Nan Batian, and the others also cast curious nces in Zhong Shan''s direction.


    Then, the sect master and the two peak masters stepped on the white clouds and flew away. ording to Zhong Shan''s memory of the direction, they should be leaving the Kaiyang Sect.


    They''re leaving?


    As the curiosity sparked in the eyes of the porcin doll-like Tian Ling''er, her frustration at being left out by her father, Tian Xingzi, simmered underneath the surface. Yet, she couldn''t help but cast an intrigued nce at Zhong Shan.


    "Alright, let''s head to the Scripture Pavilion to select our techniques," a second-generation Golden Core disciple instructed.


    "Yes," the crowd immediately responded.


    However, they still approached the second-generation disciples, offering their respects. These senior disciples had chosen them, foreseeing that they would be disciples under their guidance. Seeing the chosen ones arrive, they felt a surge of joy and proceeded to offer them some guidance before allowing them to enter the Scripture Pavilion.


    Clearly, they were guiding these future disciples on how to choose their techniques. After all, once these disciples cultivated their True Essence, they would inevitably be disciples of these senior figures, so naturally, they received a bit more attention.


    After informing these future disciples, these formidable Golden Core cultivators began to leave, one by one.


    Watching the neers joyfully search for techniques, Zhong Shan could only smile wryly. Obviously, no one woulde to help him choose techniques.


    He made his way slowly towards the Scripture Pavilion.


    "Are you Zhong Shan?" Tian Ling''er suddenly intercepted him, her curiosity evident.


    Meeting the gaze of the beautiful porcin doll before him, Zhong Shan simply nodded, saying nothing more.


    "I''m asking you, what was in the jade slip you gave my father? It made him and two other senior brothers deliberate for a month before deciding to leave?" Tian Ling''er suddenly asked.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan looked at Tian Ling''er strangely.


    "I don''t know either. It was something a senior entrusted to me, just asking me to bring it over," Zhong Shan replied truthfully.


    "If you tell me, I''ll tell you a secret about the Scripture Pavilion," Tian Ling''er suddenly said mysteriously.


    "A secret?" Zhong Shan looked at Tian Ling''er curiously.


    "Yes, it''s something Aunt Guan told me. It can help you find the best technique among those thousands of secret scrolls," Tian Ling''er whispered immediately.


    "Oh? Really?" Zhong Shan eximed in surprise.


    "Of course, I also told Little Nanzi about it. That''s why he cultivated so quickly, isn''t it, Little Nanzi?" Tian Ling''er looked at thest person left in the square and said with a mischievous smile.


    "Yeah, Senior Sister," Nan Batian replied somewhat awkwardly.


    Listening to the two of them, Zhongshan frowned. Cultivation techniques - he knew their importance all too well. A good technique could save one from many detours in cultivation. And given Zhongshan''s mediocre aptitude, he craved good techniques even more.


    But Zhongshan truly knew nothing about what they were asking. How could he respond? Yet, he didn''t want to waste this opportunity. It put him in quite a dilemma.


    ncing at the curious pair before him, Zhongshan was certain that the sect leader and the two peak masters hadn''t divulged any information to them. So, for the sake of obtaining a technique, he decided to make something up. After all, acquiring the technique was paramount. He could always make it up to themter.


    "This thing, you must never say I mentioned it," Zhongshan said, looking around and feigning nervousness.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s mysterious demeanor, Tian Ling''er''s eyes lit up as if she anticipated something exciting. While Nan Batian pretended not to care, his sidelong nce gave away his interest.


    "A magical treasure, an incredibly powerful one," Zhongshan said in a hushed tone.


    "Oh?" Tian Ling''er''s eyes widened at the mention of a magical treasure.


    "It''s called the ''Somersault Cloud.'' They say, with the corresponding method, just one somersault can cover a distance of one hundred and eighty thousand miles," Zhongshan said, channeling the persuasive spirit he once had in business. His tone was serious, as if afraid they might reveal his secret.


    Tian Ling''er''s mouth formed a perfect "O" shape, her face filled with astonishment and excitement.


    Meanwhile, Nan Batian wore an expression of disbelief. Somersault Cloud? One somersault covering a distance of one hundred and eighty thousand miles?


    "Well, I don''t know much else. After all, I haven''t seen the internal details myself; I''ve only heard about it. And please, don''t mention that I told you," Zhongshan reiterated seriously.


    "Got it," Tian Ling''er nodded immediately.


    Nan Batian, however, looked at Zhongshan with a puzzled expression.


    "Um, how do you choose the best cultivation techniques?" Zhongshan asked Tian Ling''er.


    "The best techniques? Right, when you go inside, just look for the ones with a white fingerprint behind the books; those are the best techniques," Tian Ling''er replied promptly and generously.


    "Okay, thanks," Zhongshan said, bidding farewell to the two before quickly entering the pce.


    Leaving the two behind to contemte the incredible Somersault Cloud.

 Chapter 12: Choosing Techniques and Diligent Practice

    <h4>Chapter 12: Choosing Techniques and Diligent Practice</h4>


    The scripture pavilion was a grand hall measuring thirty meters in length and twenty meters in width. Inside, the books were not overcrowded but rather loosely arranged, totaling around a thousand volumes.


    These thousand books were all cultivation techniques for the innate realm, capable of being cultivated up to the Golden Core realm. In the outside world, they would be considered top-tier martial arts secrets, but here, there were a thousand of them.


    Fifty-five individuals had already found the techniques they desired and were diligently reciting them.


    Meanwhile, Zhang Shan began meticulously browsing through each book, one by one. Among the selections, there were a total of sixteen books with a white imprint at the back, indicating they were the finest secrets.


    After spending half a day filtering through them, Zhang Shan finally selected two technique manuals: the "Great Sun Divine Technique" and the "Yin True Scripture." One was focused on extreme strength, while the other emphasized extreme softness. Each manual had tenyers, with the formation of true essence at the sixthyer and a breakthrough to the Golden Core realm after the tenthyer.


    The "Great Sun Divine Technique" was for physical cultivation, while the "Yin True Scripture" was for practicing in the distant Zhong mansion.


    Compared to the "Red Phoenix Heavenly Scripture" and the "Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Art," the content of these two books was evidently shorter.


    Feeling hungry, Zhang Shan decided to return for a meal. Once satiated, he nned toe back to continue memorizing the scriptures. During this time, Zhang Shan did not transcribe these techniques but carried them with him to memorize. It wasn''t that Zhang Shan hadn''t considered transcribing them; he understood the importance of the first read-through, as it often led to the most profound insights.


    Eight dayster, Zhang Shan hadpletely memorized the contents of the two manuals.


    His dwelling was nestled within a valley, boasting a splendid environment with a waterfall cascading into a deep pool. Adjacent to it was a small courtyard, surrounded by a patch ofnd where a plethora of seeds provided by the Kaiyang Secty.


    Looking at the seeds in the house, Zhang Shan felt somewhat perplexed. Self-sufficiency? In the Kaiyang Sect, there were no servants, and everything relied on oneself. If one found it troublesome, they could hunt animals in the mountains for food or gather some spiritual fruits to eat, as the entire internal area was an entire mountain range with abundant resources. However, one needed to be wary of fierce beasts in the mountains; if one died, there would be no one to take care of it.


    In the residences of the disciples, it was absolutely safe because each dwelling was protected by an array, preventing poisonous insects and fierce beasts from approaching.


    Of course, only those in the innate realm still needed to eat. Once they reached the Golden Core realm, they could rely on the energy of heaven and earth instead of grains and misceneous grains.


    Looking at the seeds, Zhang Shan felt somewhat strange, but in the end, he sorted them out��some for vegetables, some for rice. After spending a few days, Zhang Shan divided the patch ofnd next to the house and nted the seeds ordingly. By the time he was done, everything was in perfect order.


    Inside the house, there were various utensils, evidently used by previous upants.


    The Taiyin Scripture was a supreme Yin cultivation method,plemented by a set of sword techniques. For now, Zhang Shan practiced it with his hidden body, as he had recently reached the innate realm, making it just the right time to cultivate.


    The Dayang Divine Technique, on the other hand, was an extremely Yang cultivation method, paired with knife techniques. Practicing it around mes could enhance its effects.


    Fire? Where would he find fire? Zhang Shan looked around the ce, puzzled by its pristine cleanliness. He couldn''t help but feel incredibly strange��back in the Great Kun Empire, whatever he wanted, he got. Here, why did it feel like he was even more miserable than a poor farmer?


    However, for the sake of his cultivation path, Zhang Shan endured it.


    Closing his eyes, he began the first stage of the Dayang Divine Technique. This technique refined the muscles, skin, tendons, and bones with true qi. Zhang Shan quickly immersed himself in the practice, spending half a day on it until dusk approached, just barely grasping the basics.


    Having exhausted his provisions, he caught some fresh fish from a nearby pond and cooked himself a meal.


    The night passed in cultivation, with Zhang Shan not cking off in the slightest. The next day, as soon as it dawned, he picked up therge knife that was already in the house and, along with some rope, went to chop firewood.


    Once outside the valley''s protective array, it was no longer safe. Gently observing the surrounding forest, Zhang Shan didn''t venture too deep, only cutting down tworge trees on the outskirts and dragging them back with the rope.


    Outside the courtyard, he chopped the trees into smaller pieces and stored them in the woodshed.


    Next, Zhang Shan practiced his knife techniques.


    Within the Dayang Divine Technique, there were only two knife techniques: "Forcefully Splitting the Mountain" and "Cutting Down All Enemies." However, when it came to knife techniques, one must pay attention to the rhythm of splitting and cutting. All things had weak points; it wasn''t about brute force but finding those weak points. Just like the grain of a tree, if one could strike within its pattern, the power would multiply, creating a profound effect.


    Then chopping wood it was. Zhang Shan quickly discovered that the wood with the most grain lines was the easiest to practice on.


    With the wood he had chopped in the morning, Zhang Shan began his wood-chopping career. Following the movements and techniques of the Dayang Divine Technique, he chopped down piece after piece. The former rich young master found himself doing manualbor.


    At first, if his body movements were off, his knife techniques would be wrong. Even when his knife techniques were correct, he couldn''t urately hit the grain lines. Even if he did hit them, the grain lines would suddenly change midway, preventing him from chopping all the way through.


    However, Zhang Shan persisted.


    Two dayster, his body movements and knife techniques had be proficient, but he still couldn''t chop all the way through along a single grain line. Disappointed in himself, Zhang Shan went to fetch more wood and found that all the wood had been chopped into small pieces.


    None of the wood was left intact.


    Looking at the chopped wood, Zhang Shan kept some for cooking and brought the rest outside the courtyard. He dug arge pit ording to his specifications and made square blocks of soil to ce on the side.


    He filled the pit with the chopped wood.


    Zhang Shan then positioned himself in the center of the pit where there was no wood, lit a fire, and sat cross-legged. mes rose around him as he began to continuously practice the Dayang Divine Technique.


    Under the intense heat of the fire, the Dayang Divine Technique stimted his cultivation. Zhang Shan felt as if the mes were constantly tempering his body, while his true qi absorbed the heat from the fire, nourishing him continuously.


    His entire body was flushed red by the mes, but Zhang Shan felt that this method of cultivation was more than twice as fast as before.


    Having tasted the benefits, Zhang Shan redoubled his efforts in cultivation until all the wood around him turned into ashes, and the mes died out before he finally rested.


    Watching the ashes in the pit, Zhang Shan quickly dug them out and brought them to the nearby fields as fertilizer, making good use of waste.


    Whether chopping wood to practice knife techniques or burning wood to cultivate his spiritual power, even during rest, Zhang Shan worked hard to keep his true qi flowing and maintained a state of cultivation. Without stopping for a moment, Zhang Shan practiced the Dayang Divine Technique very diligently.


    Finally, after a month, he reached the first level of the Dayang Divine Technique. The first level! After a month of effort, Zhang Shan''s face showed extreme excitement.


    At this moment, not far from Zhang Shan''s courtyard, near the vegetable field, there was a big house. Beside it was arge shed, stacked with chopped wood. This big house was built by Zhang Shan himself during this period��a kiln, arge kiln.


    While practicing, mes rose inside, and Zhang Shan sat in the center, resisting the heat, tempering his body, and practicing the Dayang Divine Technique. At the same time, he also made bricks and stones, baking them into bricks for his own use in building the house.


    It was in this kiln that Zhang Shan achieved the first level of the Dayang Divine Technique.


    Naked, Zhang Shan pushed open the stone door and stepped out of the kiln. His entire body was hairless, burned clean by the mes, yet miraculously, his skin remained unckened, just slightly reddened.


    Reaching the edge of the deep pool, he plunged in and carefully washed his body. After the cleansing, he felt much morefortable all over. After preparing some food, he resumed his training. In addition to the Dayang Divine Technique, Zhang Shan also practiced the Red Phoenix Heavenly Scripture and the Devil''s Body Tempering Technique. Although these two techniques were auxiliary, they still possessed their own mystical aspects.


    Due to the wear and tear on his clothes from his training, Zhang Shan usually trained shirtless.


    The next day, Zhang Shan left the valley with his knife to chop wood.


    Meanwhile, inside the Open Sun Hall, Tianxingzi, the Widowed Sister, and Xuexinzi had already returned. They all frowned in silence, as if they had just finished discussing something.


    At that moment, Tianling Er, who had received news, suddenly ran into the main hall.


    "Dad, did you get the Somersault Cloud?" Tianling Er immediately asked upon entering the hall.


    "Somersault Cloud?" Tianxingzi paused noticeably, while the Widowed Sister and Xuexinzi looked at Tianling Er strangely.


    Somersault Cloud? What Somersault Cloud?


    "That guy named Zhang Shan told me about it. Don''t lie to me," Tianling Er said yfully.


    "Told you what?" Tianxingzi frowned, casting a strange nce at Tianling Er.


    "It''s the Somersault Cloud, a cloud that can travel tens of thousands of miles with just one leap!" Tianling Er eximed excitedly.


    The three exchanged nces, then simultaneously stared at Tianling Er with mouths agape.

 Chapter 13 - Thirteen: Kui鈥檈r

    <h4>Chapter 13: Chapter Thirteen: Kui''er</h4>


    Once again venturing into the mountains, the valley felt increasingly familiar to Zhongshan after multiple visits. Continuing with his routine, he began chopping down trees, this time selecting a single massive tree that equaled the size of three typical ones. With each swing of his de, Zhongshan sensed a subtle tension in his muscles, a feeling of being watched creeping over him.


    Nearby, within a tuft of grass, two green eyes glinted with a bloodthirsty gaze fixed on Zhongshan. Sensing the danger, Zhongshan paused, attentively assessing the source.


    Suddenly, a faint sound emanated from behind him. "Shh..." It was the owner of those bloodthirsty eyes, unable to contain its predatory instincts any longer, leaping toward Zhongshan.


    Reacting swiftly, Zhongshan spun around, channeling his qi into his de, and ruthlessly cleaved towards the direction of the sound.


    "sh!"


    As the de descended, a faint aura of me enveloped its edge.


    "ng!"


    The sound of metal striking metal reverberated as Zhongshan staggered back three steps, finally discerning his assant.


    A mountain cat, fiery red and towering over a man''s height, its eyes fixed hungrily on Zhongshan, evidently intending to make him its next meal.


    A demonic beast, no doubt. Zhongshan realized that his earlier strike had left no trace on its body.


    Following the sh, the mountain cat charged at Zhongshan once again, its massive ws swiftly swiping towards him. Zhongshan noticed a faint red glow emanating from the ws as they approached.


    "sh!"


    "Boom!"


    The sh of the giant w against Zhongshan''s de sent him flying backward, crashing into arge tree and dislodging a shower of leaves.


    The cat''s ws, as resilient as diamond and as fast as lightning, outmatched Zhongshan in both strength and speed. What could he do?


    As Zhongshan fretted, the mountain cat lunged again. Its fiery ws aimed straight for him.


    Zhongshan sidestepped, deflecting one w, then leaped backward. But the cat''s other w struck the tree directly, leaving a gaping hole in its trunk, scorched ck.


    Scorched ck? Was this mountain cat of the fire element? Wouldn''t that make it even less susceptible to Zhongshan''s de imbued with killing intent?


    With danger looming, Zhongshan''s eyes widened. His already muscr upper body suddenly swelled evenrger, muscles bulging. He swung hisrge de once more, aiming for the gap between the mountain cat''s ws.


    "Demonic Body Tempering Technique!"


    However, the cat, disying some degree of intelligence, swiftly avoided the strike, dodging Zhongshan''s de with a quick swipe of its w.


    "Boom!"


    Despite his doubled strength, Zhongshan still found himself being knocked backward by the mountain cat''s overwhelming power. However, the sudden increase in strength caused the cat to stagger back slightly.


    The mountain cat looked at Zhongshan in surprise, unable toprehend the sudden surge in his strength.


    Noticing the limited effect, Zhongshan''s heart tightened. He lunged at the mountain cat once again, his de aimed at its head. But this time, a faint pink energy apanied the killing intent of his de.


    "Force Splitting the Heavens!"


    To his surprise, the mountain cat didn''t evade. Instead, it lowered its head slightly and swiped its w towards Zhongshan''s chest.


    "ng!"


    The de struck the cat''s head, producing a sound akin to metal striking stone. Simultaneously, the cat''s w grazed Zhongshan''s chest.


    Although the distance was far, and Zhongshan''s body had doubled in hardness due to the Demonic Body Tempering Technique, three long red marks were left on his chest.


    Unable tond a sessful blow, Zhongshan quickly retreated. However, the Red Phoenix Mist had already been sessfully absorbed by the mountain cat.


    After another round of fighting, Zhongshan''s body bore more bloody marks, but he remained uninjured.


    Finally, the Red Phoenix Mist began to take effect. The mountain cat''s behavior suddenly became erratic. Its eyes became dry and red, and an indescribable sensation swept through its body, causing its movements to be disordered.


    "Annihte Everything!"


    Once again, the de struck towards the gap between the mountain cat''s ws.


    "Crack!"


    The mountain cat''s w was split apart, and arge amount of blood sttered out. The mountain cat was severely injured, losing the use of one leg.


    With the mountain cat''s strength greatly diminished, Zhongshan didn''t hesitate. He swiftly aimed another strike at the gap between its ws, ruthlessly severing them. Then, he swiftly swung his de to end the mountain cat''s life by cutting its throat.


    "Snap!"


    The mountain cat fell to the ground, blood gushing out. It convulsed for a moment before sumbing to its excessive blood loss.


    Zhongshan looked at the giant mountain cat before him. Standing on all fours, it was as tall as a person, with a body length of three meters.


    Having been some time since the battle, Zhongshan wasted no time. He slung the bloodied mountain cat over his shoulder and hurried back to his valley. After an hour of utilizing the Demonic Body Tempering Technique, he would be extremely weak. It was crucial to leave this dangerous ce as soon as possible.


    Covered in blood, Zhongshan finally returned to his valley within the hour.


    He tossed the mountain cat to the ground and threw his de aside before lying down. The parts of his body that had previously bulged with strength returned to normal.


    Closing his eyes, Zhongshan gently assessed his condition. His strength had dwindled to only about thirty percent of its usual level, leaving him extremely weakened. However, that wasn''t the most critical issue. The most pressing matter was the intense soreness that pervaded his entire body, as if every muscle and bone had been shattered.


    However, he ultimately survived and killed the mountain cat.


    "It''s you! You big liar!" Suddenly, a very pleasant voice came from inside Zhongshan''s room.


    Though the voice was pleasant, the tone sounded somewhat unfriendly.


    Looking toward the sound, he saw Tianlinger dressed in fiery red attire, walking out of the room with a wooden carving in hand.


    Tianlinger''s face was full of anger as she stepped out and immediately spotted Zhongshan, whose upper body was bare, and whose pants had been torn during the previous practice of the Heavenly Demon Body Refinement Technique.


    "You rascal!" Tianlinger suddenly eximed.


    But at that moment, Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Put down Bao''er and Kui''er." Zhongshan quickly got up and shouted angrily at Tianlinger.


    His shout made Tianlinger visibly pause.


    "Bao''er? Kui''er?" Tianlinger looked at the small wooden carvings in her hands.


    The two wooden carvings depicted two stunning women. One was a woman whose portrait hung in the Hengshan Manor, Bao''er. The other was a woman with a gentle expression, so beautiful that one couldn''t help but want to bully her. These were wooden carvings Zhongshan had made with his big knife while practicing his swordsmanship. The fact that he had carved such detailed figures with arge knife showed how diligent he was in his sword practice.


    "Why so fierce? I was just looking." Tianlinger''s expression seemed a bit flustered as she looked at Zhongshan''s bloodthirsty eyes.


    "Give them to me," Zhongshan suddenly extended his right palm.


    "No," Tianlinger recoiled with both hands.


    "Give them to me!" Zhongshan shouted angrily.


    At Zhongshan''s shout, Tianlinger inexplicably felt a flutter in her heart, as if she were genuinely afraid. But why should she be afraid? She was at the Eighth Stage of Innate Realm, how long had he been practicing? She was stronger than him, so why should she fear him?


    Thinking this, Tianlinger straightened her chest, and her breasts, which seemed not yet fully matured, trembled slightly.


    "You lied to me about my father going to get the Cloud Stepping Boots. My father never had them; you deceived me," Tianlinger immediately eximed.


    Hearing Tianlinger''s words, Zhongshan frowned, knowing he was in the wrong. His initial anger subsided considerably.


    "I''m sorry. I really wanted a good innate technique back then. I lied to you that day. I will make it up to you in the future," Zhongshan said.


    A real man should be honest. There''s no shame in apologizing, especially when you''re in the wrong.


    "I like these two wooden carvings. Give them to me aspensation," Tianlinger immediately demanded.


    "No, I can carve new ones for you, but these two are absolutely not up for grabs," Zhongshan immediately objected.


    In the past, Zhongshan wouldn''t have been so agitated, but these two wooden carvings were very important to him. Even though he could carve new ones, he was unwilling to give away the images of these two women to anyone. He wouldn''t mind if it were other carvings, but these two women were absolutely off-limits.


    "Hmph, I want these two," Tianlinger retorted.


    Speaking of which, Tianlinger was not a member of the Ren family. However, Zhongshan''s obvious guilt and his attitude as if she owed him something made Tianlinger extremely angry.


    "Give it to me," Zhongshan reached out to grab the wooden carving.


    "No," Tianlinger recoiled, her body about to retreat.


    However, Zhongshan''s hand was already close, and he was about to grab one of the wooden carvings.


    "Snap!" Tianlinger exerted force, crushing the wooden carving in her hand.


    Being at the Eighth Stage of Innate Realm meant terrifying strength. A moment of carelessness resulted in immense force. Tianlinger hadn''t expected to crush it herself, but in that tense moment, she unintentionally used too much force.


    Watching the small wooden carving of Kui''er being crushed in Tianlinger''s hand, Zhongshan paused, as if suddenly realizing something. His eyes instantly turned red.


    "Prince Lie Tian, ah~~ I''ll kill you~~" Zhongshan suddenly went berserk. He grabbed hisrge knife and viciously shed at Tianlinger.


    Zhongshan went mad all of a sudden, startling Tianlinger. She watched as the knife came shing towards her, as if it were really going to end her life with one blow.


    However, Zhongshan''s strength was now less than half of what it used to be, and Tianlinger was much stronger than him.


    "Bang~~" Suddenly, a red silk appeared in Tianlinger''s hand, blocking Zhongshan''s big knife. Zhongshan was not injured.


    "Ah~~"...


    With eyes zing red, Zhongshan seemed to have regarded Tianlinger as a mortal enemy. He swung his big knife at Tianlinger again and again, each blow more fierce than thest.


    "Bang~~" Zhongshan was once again knocked away by the red silk.


    "Poof~~" Zhongshan spat out a mouthful of blood while in midair before crashing to the ground. After vomiting blood, he seemed to regain a bit of calm, slowly standing up and using hisrge knife for support. However, his eyes still burned with murderous intent as he red at Tianlinger.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s bloodshot eyes, Tianlinger threw the two wooden carvings to the ground. "I''m not ying with you anymore," she said before quickly flying away.


    "Thud!" Zhongshan copsed onto the ground. Clearly, Tianlinger''s strike with the red silk carried immense power, even stronger than the beasts he had encountered before. Coupled with his already severe injuries, the additional blow was too much for him, and he couldn''t hold on any longer after Tianlinger left.


    After a while, Zhongshan felt much better and slowly stood up, walking over to the wooden carvings. He picked up the carving of Bao''er, which was unharmed, but the other one was deformed from being crushed.


    Gently picking up the shattered carving of Kui''er, Zhongshan''s face showed a bitter smile. "Kui''er, today, I lost my mind for you once again."


    He set down hisrge knife, sat on the ground, and carefully caressed the broken carving of Kui''er. "In my life, I have only ever loved two women. Only in front of you two would I lose my sanity. Bao''er is now missing without a trace. Kui''er, to think that I, the once richest man in the Great Kun Kingdom, wealthier than the nation itself, could not protect you. Prince Lietian, practitioners like you kill as you please, searching for souls born on yin year, yin month, yin day, and yin hour. In the morning, you were fine, but by the afternoon, a group of demons descended from the sky. The leader was called ''Prince Lietian.'' I remember it well, as his subordinates called out his name. I will never forget it. Prince Lietian, to forge a demonic banner, searched the world for those born on yin year, yin month, yin day, and yin hour. With just one grab, you died on the spot. If not for a subordinate knocking me unconscious and allowing me to escape, perhaps there would be no me today."


    "Kui''er, don''t worry. I can cultivate now, and I''ve joined an immortal sect. You can watch from above; one day, I will find Prince Lietian. I will tear him to pieces and avenge you," Zhongshan said, clenching his fists tightly.


    "If only we hadn''t gone out that day, if only we had stayed home..." Zhongshan murmured to himself, and tears began to flow down his tiger-like eyes.


    "How many years has it been? Forty years, right? I can''t believe that for you, I''ve shed tears once again," Zhongshan said, smiling bitterly through his tears. The tears of a strong man reveal a heart full of sorrow. Men have their own way of dealing with things. Gently wiping his eyes, he suppressed the sadness in his heart, transforming it into a powerful motivation. Slowly, he closed his eyes and began meditating in a cross-legged position.


    Unbeknownst to Zhongshan, after Tianlinger had flown away, she had returned and was now hiding in the corner of the small courtyard wall. She had heard everything Zhongshan had said to himself. Biting her lip gently, she looked at Zhongshan''s blood-covered, resolute face and the wooden carving of Kui''er in front of him. A hint of remorse flickered in her eyes.

 Chapter 14 - Fourteen: The Fierce One

    <h4>Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen: The Fierce One</h4>


    The night was as dark as ink, with the pine trees on the mountain whispering secrets that had been kept for centuries. The faint moonlight filtered through the dense leaves, casting mottled shadows on the forest path, like mysterious runes. Chen Fan walked slowly along the winding path, his expression solemn.


    He had an uneasy premonition. During the day, the vige elders had spoken of this deep mountain, their words filled with awe and fear. It was said that this ce was once the site of an immortal cultivation sect, but now...


    After undergoing the tempering of the Heavenly Demon, and then being injured by Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shan sat for nearly two hours before feeling much better. It wasn''t until the next day that the aftereffects of the Heavenly Demon temperingpletely dissipated.


    He had dealt with a mountain cat and found another inner core within its body. Combined with the inner core from the silver wolfst time, he now had two inner cores. However, Zhong Shan still didn''t know what these inner cores were for, so he carefully stored them away for future use.


    The mountain cat''s meat was dried and made into jerky. It tasted quite delicious, and its skin could only be made into pants. In this ce, he had only a few sets of clothes for changing. Zhong Shan didn''t dare to wear them often, because every time he was in the kiln, his clothes would be burned. Therefore, he made several pairs of shorts out of the animal skins. Fortunately, the quality of the skins was very strong, so they wouldn''t burn in the kiln.


    Life went on. He continued to practice his de techniques, the Great Sun Divine Skill, the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture, and the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering simultaneously.


    However, after two months, Zhong Shan began to feel a sense of unease. Now, he was advancing from the first level to the second level of the Great Sun Divine Skill. But at this critical juncture, he couldn''t seem to break through to the second level. In the kiln, he was no longer afraid of the mes. Even when he increased the firewood significantly, it still felt insufficient. Zhong Shan needed a higher level of fiery energy.


    Near the mouth of a cave not far from Yan Mountain Peak of the Kaiyang Sect, Tian Ling''er waited outside, clutching a red silk ribbon in her hand. Several times, she wanted to st therge stone blocking the cave entrance, her face showing her frustration, but she gritted her teeth and restrained herself.


    "Rumble~~"


    The cave finally opened.


    "Xiao Nanzi, you''re finally out," Tian Ling''er immediately called out to the interior.


    "Uh, Junior Sister��no, Senior Sister, what are you doing here?" came a surprised voice from inside.


    Soon, Nan Batian emerged from the cave, looking astonished to see Tian Ling''er.


    "I''ve been waiting for you for two months. Why did it take so long? Did you break through?" Tian Ling''er asked.


    "Yes, to the eighth level of the Xiantian realm. I''m now at the eighth level too, almost catching up to you. Haha, soon, you''ll be the junior sister again," Nan Batianughed.


    "Hmph, catching up to me? Dream on. I''m about to reach the ninth level of the Xiantian realm. In the entire Lingyun Sect, among the third generation disciples, I have the highest enlightenment and the best natural talent," Tian Ling''er dered confidently.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er''s confident demeanor, Nan Batian could only shake his head in resignation.


    "Well, Senior Sister, what brings you here today?" Nan Batian asked.


    "Is there a reason? Of course, I need your help," Tian Ling''er suddenly softened her tone.


    "Help? You need my help?" Nan Batian''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    ���嶥��


    ����׶�


    "Of course! Are you going to help or not?" Tian Ling''er''s tone shifted abruptly, her eyes widening in a re.


    "Help, of course, I''ll help. You, the youngdy of Kaiyang Sect, who would dare not to?" Nan Batian replied with a pained expression.


    Zhong Shan emerged from the kiln with a frown, a trace of frustration in his eyes. No, this wasn''t going to work. Relying on this kiln definitely wasn''t the solution. If it wasn''tpletely sealed, the internal temperature couldn''t rise enough, but if it was sealed, there wouldn''t be any oxygen, and without oxygen, the fire inside the kiln couldn''t burn.


    Gently pushing open the kiln door, Zhong Shan walked out slowly, his face showing his troubles.


    "Zhong Shan!" As soon as he stepped out, he heard a shout from the front of his courtyard.


    Looking up, he saw Nan Batian in ck attire, holding arge Guan Dao, standing not far away. At his feet was a circle about a meter in diameter, and he was ring at Zhong Shan with wide eyes.


    "Ninth Senior Brother?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Attack me with all your strength. I will only use twenty percent of my power. If you can force me out of this circle, you win," Nan Batian said confidently.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan frowned, not sure what Nan Batian meant. However, he could tell that Nan Batian had no ill intentions. Moreover, Zhong Shan wanted to test his recent progress, so he immediately shouted, "Alright!"


    With that, Zhong Shan picked up therge de resting by the kiln and swung it lightly before charging towards Nan Batian. As he approached, Zhong Shan leaped, raising his de.


    "Mountain Splitting Strike!"


    He swung the de down towards Nan Batian. Nan Batian''s eyes narrowed as he raised hisrge Guan Dao to meet Zhong Shan''s de.


    "Boom~~"


    The des collided, and Zhong Shan was pushed back slightly, while Nan Batian remained in ce. Without pausing, Zhong Shan swung his de horizontally again.


    "Annihting sh!"


    "Good~~~" Nan Batian shouted in approval.


    Nan Batian let out a thunderous shout, swinging hisrge Guan Dao to meet Zhong Shan''s de once more.


    "Boom~~"


    Zhong Shan was sent flying. In mid-air, he steadied himself and looked back at Nan Batian. As expected, Nan Batian was indeed very strong. Only twenty percent of his power? Was it really just twenty percent?


    Seeing that Nan Batian''s feet were still within the circle, Zhong Shan suddenly became more determined. Resolving himself, he continued his assault on Nan Batian.


    Each strike from Zhong Shan was faster and fiercer than thest. Outside the circle, he shed at Nan Batian relentlessly. Inside the circle, Nan Batian wielded his Guan Dao with an imprable defense, quickly blocking each of Zhong Shan''s strikes. As Zhong Shan''s attacks grew stronger, Nan Batian''s brows furrowed deeper.


    In a nearby corner, Tian Ling''er stood watching, her brows slightly knit, biting her lip, and clenching her small fists, trying to keep herself calm.


    "Boom~~"


    An hourter, Zhong Shan was drenched in sweat, but Nan Batian was too strong. Was he really helpless against just twenty percent of Nan Batian''s power?


    Looking at Nan Batian in front of him, Zhong Shan became even more resolute. If he couldn''t force Nan Batian out of the circle today, how could he face the Sky-Splitting Prince in the future?


    With unwavering determination, Zhong Shan''s eyes hardened, and he charged at Nan Batian again.


    Nan Batian looked at Zhong Shan in astonishment. From the power Zhong Shan exhibited, Nan Batian could tell that Zhong Shan was at the first level of the Xiantian realm. However, the force behind Zhong Shan''s strikes and his relentless momentum seemed even more intense than Nan Batian''s own. Fortunately, Zhong Shan''s overall strength was still far behind his own. Looking at Zhong Shan, only one word came to Nan Batian''s mind: fierce. This man was an absolute fierce one, a peerless fierce man among his peers.


    "Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique!"


    "Mountain Splitting Strike!"


    Zhong Shan''s muscles suddenly bulged as he unleashed the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique. With a powerful roar, he brought his de down in another devastating Mountain Splitting Strike towards Nan Batian.


    "Boom~~"


    Nan Batian staggered. What happened? How did Zhong Shan''s strength suddenly surge?


    "Boom~~"


    Zhong Shan, seizing the advantage, showed his ferocity once again, crazily shing towards Nan Batian.


    "Ahh~~"


    After an incense stick''s worth of time, Zhong Shan delivered a final Mountain Splitting Strike, finally forcing Nan Batian out of the circle.


    "Hoo~~ Hoo~~ Hoo~~ Hoo~~"


    Nan Batian, out of the circle, kept panting heavily. It was evident that the battle was over. His hands trembled slightly as he held his de. Nan Batian''s strength was too overwhelming, but finally, Zhong Shan managed to force him out of the circle.


    Nan Batian, now outside the circle, was also inexplicably surprised. With just twenty percent of his power, Zhong Shan... Was he at the first level of the Xiantian realm? He was so ferocious!


    "Thank you, Ninth Senior Brother," Zhong Shan said immediately.


    Zhong Shan felt that he had gained a lot from this battle. Nan Batian seemed to have been deliberately acting as his sparring partner. Therefore, Zhong Shan felt the need to thank Nan Batian.


    "No problem, Zhong Shan. You''re really fierce," Nan Batian said with a single sentence. But with just that, he revealed everything in his heart.


    In a nearby location, Tian Ling''er saw Zhong Shan finally forcing Nan Batian out of the circle and was also surprised. Originally, it was agreed that Nan Batian would deliberately lose and step out of the circle, but now it seemed that Zhong Shan hadpletely relied on his strength to force him out. Didn''t her father say that Zhong Shan had poor aptitude and couldn''t cultivate properly?


    "Hehe, Senior Brother is also amazing," Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "No need to call me Senior Brother. After all, in Kaiyang Sect, the rankings of seniority keep changing. Just call me Nan Batian or Batian," Nan Batian said cheerfully.


    "Alright, I''m curious. What brings you here today?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    Obviously, Nan Batian couldn''t possiblye just to spar. Even a child with just a budding intellect could tell it wasn''t that simple.


    "Well, to be honest, I was forced toe," Nan Batian suddenly shook his head and chuckled.


    "Forced?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Yeah, I''m here to apologize on behalf of someone," Nan Batian said.


    "Apologize?" Zhong Shan looked puzzled.


    "Yeah, it''s about the sect leader''s daughter, Tian Ling''er. Remember when she smashed your little wooden carving a while ago? She felt guilty but was too embarrassed toe, so she sent me to apologize on her behalf," Nan Batian exined.


    As Nan Batian spoke, Tian Ling''er not far away clenched her fists again, carefully watching Zhong Shan in the distance.


    "Tian Ling''er? Hehe, I never med her. In fact, I feel indebted to her," Zhong Shan shook his head. After all, he was the one who had deceived her in the first ce.


    "Is that so? That''s great then. Tian Ling''er is just arriving. You can tell her yourself," Nan Batian said.


    Hearing Nan Batian''s words, Zhong Shan looked around and had a slight realization. Tian Ling''er must be nearby.


    Sure enough, Tian Ling''er descended from the sky again on her red silk ribbon.


    "Zhong Shan, I''m really sorry for breaking your wooden carving that day," Tian Ling''er apologized sincerely.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er, who could almost pass for his granddaughter, with her pitiful expression and doll-like appearance, Zhong Shan couldn''t muster any anger, especially since he hadn''t med her at all.


    "It''s nothing. That day, I was also in the wrong. Please wait here for a moment. I''ll go fetch something. Consider it aspensation for that day," Zhong Shan said. With that, he entered his courtyard.


    Soon, Zhong Shan returned with an item in hand and presented it to Tian Ling''er.


    "Here, take this. Consider it as an apology for the deception and offense from before," Zhong Shan said.


    In Zhong Shan''s hand was a small wooden carving, depicting Tian Ling''er herself.


    Tian Ling''er immediately fell in love with it and eagerly epted it.


    "Did you carve this?" Nan Batian asked.


    "No, I made it when practicing my de techniques out of boredom," Zhong Shan replied.


    Looking at the delicate wooden carving and then at therge de in Zhong Shan''s hand, Nan Batian could only say, "You''re fierce, really fierce."


    Tian Ling''er, on the other hand, joyfully continued to caress her little figurine.

 Chapter 15: Pursuit Boots

    <h4>Chapter 15: Pursuit Boots</h4>


    "By the way, what cultivation method are you practicing?" Nan Batian immediately asked.


    "The Great Yang Divine Technique," Zhong Shan replied.


    Although he had already guessed it before, Nan Batian still found it somewhat unbelievable. The Great Yang Divine Technique was so formidable? In the end, he could only conclude that Zhong Shan was indeed a fierce one.


    "I owe a lot to Tian Ling''er," Zhong Shan said. After all, it was thanks to Tian Ling''er''s information that he was able to choose this cultivation method.


    "No need to be polite. Considering this wooden carving, let''s not mention the past unpleasantness. From now on, if anyone from Kaiyang Sect bothers you, just drop my name," Tian Ling''er said proudly, now that she was familiar with Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan smiled slightly at Tian Ling''er''s words, not bothering to refute. However, he didn''t fully agree with it in his heart. A grown man relying on a woman''s name to shield himself from trouble? That was too low.


    "By the way, my father said your physique is very poor. Howe your cultivation isn''t slow?" Tian Ling''er asked.


    Zhong Shan looked at Tian Ling''er, feeling a bit frustrated.


    "Yeah, you seem to cultivate quite fast. Although you''re not among the top, you''re not at the bottom either," Nan Batian chimed in.


    Zhong Shan then pointed to hisrge kiln and exined his cultivation method to them.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s innovative approach ofbining pottery-making with cultivation, Tian Ling''er''s eyes lit up with excitement. She looked as if she wanted to try it out right away.


    "However, I''m currently striving to break through to the second stage, which is very difficult, and this kiln seems to be inadequate," Zhong Shan said.


    "The Great Yang Divine Technique is originally provided by me Mountain Peak as a congenital technique. It needs to be practiced in extremely hot ces to progress faster. Although this kiln is good, the temperature is inevitably insufficient. But don''t worry, in the future, you can practice near me Mountain Peak," Nan Batian said.


    "me Mountain Peak?" Zhong Shan looked towards the distance, where the sky was filled with red clouds.


    "Yes, I practice in a cave there. me Mountain Peak is actually a massive volcano with powerful geothermal energy inside. Practicing the Great Yang Divine Technique there will yield twice the result with half the effort," Nan Batian exined.


    "A volcano? What about Snow Bamboo Peak?" Zhong Shan pointed to another distant peak, where snow was slowly descending in some ces.


    "You can think of that as an ice mountain. In Kaiyang Sect, me Mountain Peak and Snow Bamboo Peak, one is extremely hot, and the other is extremely cold, making them a great spectacle of our sect," Nan Batian chuckled.


    "But it''s not feasible. My ce is close to Kaiyang Peak, and me Mountain Peak is quite far from here. There may be many monsters along the way, and it''s not safe to go there often," Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Oh, wait a moment, I''ll be right back," Tian Ling''er immediately said.


    With that, Tian Ling''er stepped on her red silk ribbon and flew towards Kaiyang Peak.


    Soon, Tian Ling''er returned. But this time, she had an extra pair of white boots in her hands.


    "This is something my dad made for me, Pursuit Boots. When you wear them and infuse them with true energy, your speed will be so fast that those monsters won''t be able to catch up with you," Tian Ling''er said immediately.


    "That''s right. Within Kaiyang Sect, many monsters are actually raised by the sect for new disciples to hone themselves. Generally, once you reach the sixth stage of the congenital realm, you won''t fear any of the internal monsters anymore. Right now, you may not be able to defeat them, but with these Pursuit Boots, they won''t be able to catch up with you. You can swiftly pass through the various peaks and head there," Nan Batian exined.


    "Well, thank you," Zhong Shan said earnestly.


    "Since you gave me this little wooden carving, I''ll give you these Pursuit Boots. Consider us even," Tian Ling''er immediately smiled.


    Zhong Shan nodded without saying much. There was no need for further words. He understood it clearly in his heart. The little wooden carving couldn''tpare to these Pursuit Boots. He wouldpensate more when he had the chance in the future.


    "Oh, by the way, Zhong Shan, my father said you''re quite old?" Tian Ling''er immediately said.


    "I''m eighty," Zhong Shan replied truthfully.


    "Eighty? Isn''t that older than both me and Little Nanzi? You have to work hard on your cultivation. Otherwise, it wouldn''t be good to die of old age before reaching the Golden Core stage," Tian Ling''er said, looking surprised.


    "Die of old age?" Zhong Shan frowned at Tian Ling''er.


    "Of course. Those in the Congenital Realm only have a lifespan of two hundred years. Once they reach the Golden Core stage, it doubles to four hundred years. Then, if they advance to the Nascent Soul stage, it bes eight hundred years. Each major advancement doubles their lifespan. You''re already eighty years old and only at the first stage of the Congenital Realm, so you still have one hundred and twenty years left. You have to work hard," Tian Ling''er exined immediately.


    "Okay," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Immortality? It seemed too far away.


    "In your previous eighty years, why did you only cultivate to the Congenital Realm? Oh, I remember now. My dad said the spiritual energy outside is insufficient, so cultivation is slower," Tian Ling''er said, thinking for a moment.


    Zhong Shan shook his head with a bitter smile as he looked at Tian Ling''er. Although her cultivation was fast, her understanding was too superficial.


    "Oh, right!" Tian Ling''er''s eyes suddenly shed with a hint of anxiety.


    "What''s wrong?" Nan Batian frowned.


    "Senior Brother ising back today," Tian Ling''er immediately became somewhat anxious and worried.


    "Senior Brother? The senior brother of the third-generation disciples?" Zhong Shan furrowed his brows.


    "No, it''s the second-generation senior brother, whom Ling''er greatly admires," Nan Batian chuckled.


    "Hmph, Little Nanzi, don''t talk nonsense. I''m leaving," Tian Ling''er red and then flew away anxiously.


    "Second-generation senior brother?" Zhong Shan puzzled.


    "Yeah, he''s the eldest disciple of the Sect Master. Although Ling''er and I are third-generation disciples, Ling''er''s father is the Sect Master, so she has aplicated way of addressing people," Nan Batian exined.


    "Got it," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Alright, I won''t say much more. This time, not only the second-generation senior brother ising back, but also many others. It will definitely be very lively. I won''t keep youpany anymore. You focus on your cultivation," Nan Batian said.


    "Okay," Zhong Shan nodded.


    After Nan Batian left, Zhong Shan immediately sat cross-legged to meditate. After all, he needed to recover after using the Demonic Body Tempering Technique.


    The next day, Zhong Shan had fully recovered, and his body had be much stronger.


    Looking at the Pursuit Boots in his hands, Zhong Shan gently put them on his feet. The Pursuit Boots seemed to automatically adjust to the size of his feet. Indeed, it was a good magic treasure. When he infused his true qi, he lifted his foot slightly and instantly dashed more than ten meters. Surprised by this step, Zhong Shan found that his speed had increased by more than five timespared to before.


    With this, Zhong Shan was no longer afraid of those monsters.


    Zhong Shan also knew one thing: swordsmanship not only needed practice but also continuousbat experience. So, if he encountered monsters that he could fight against, he would do his best to fight. If the fight became too difficult, he would immediately use the Pursuit Boots to escape.


    However, swordsmanship belonged to external cultivation. Internal cultivation of the Great Yang Divine Art must continue immediately.


    With arge knife on his back, Zhong Shan aimed at the distant me Mountain and used the Pursuit Boots to run out.


    At this moment, Zhongshan''s speed was exceptionally fast. With just a gentle push against the surrounding vegetation, his body slid a considerable distance away.


    As dusk approached, Zhongshan arrived at a forest. Here, he noticed the peculiar environment of the Kaiyang Sect. While the environment around his own courtyard was pleasant, here it was scorching hot, resembling the peak of summer. Moreover, the further inward he went, the hotter it became.


    Indeed, getting closer to this area was the ideal ce for cultivation.


    After having a bite of dry rations, Zhongshan prepared to continue his journey. Just then, not far behind him, another mountain cat appeared.


    Looking at the mountain cat before him, Zhongshan chuckled inwardly. Since it was here, why not give it another try?


    With hisrge de at the ready, Zhongshan faced the pouncing mountain cat.


    <i>Boom...</i>


    Half an hourter, Zhongshan was covered in blood. After employing the Demon Tempering Body technique, the mountain cat finally fell at his feet.


    ncing at the distance and then back at the path he came from, Zhongshan pondered for a moment. He then made a decision to extract the mountain cat''s inner core and continue on towards the me Mountain. Although the aftereffects of the Demon Tempering Body technique would manifest in half an hour, Zhongshan''s strong willpower endured, especially now with the Pursuit Boots. As long as he didn''t intentionally seek trouble with the demonic beasts, they wouldn''t be able to catch up to him.


    At daybreak, Zhongshan passed through a secluded valley, exceptionally quiet and somewhat concealed. Within this valley, there happened to be a pond.


    Seeing the bloodstains on his body, Zhongshan shook his head and ran to the edge of the pond. Only then did he realize that it wasn''t just any pond but a hot spring��an volcanic hot spring.


    Delighted, Zhongshan quickly removed his clothes and jumped into the hot spring, washing himself clean.

 Chapter 16 - Sixteen: Second Layer of Innate Realm

    <h4>Chapter 16: Chapter Sixteen: Second Layer of Innate Realm</h4>


    After cleaning his body, Zhongshan also put his clothes into the hot spring for washing. After finishing, he noticed a conspicuousrge stone by the hot spring, seemingly ced there for drying clothes.


    The surface of the stone was slightly warm. Perhaps, even if the clothes weren''t dried by hanging, they could be baked dry by the stone.


    In the hot spring, Zhongshan felt the strong heat. Feeling the warmth permeating his body, Zhongshan had a sudden impulse to dive deeper. Would the bottom be even hotter?


    With his innate talent, Zhongshan could already perform internal breathing, allowing him to hold his breath for a long time underwater. Furthermore, Zhongshan could even turtle-breathe, making diving incredibly easy for him.


    Slowly swimming towards the center of the hot spring, Zhongshan quickly sank to the bottom. As he descended, he found the water temperature rising, with small bubbles bubbling up from below.


    Continuing his descent, Zhongshan finally felt the temperature of boiling water��100 degrees Celsius. But Zhongshan was in the Innate Realm now, unafraid even in a great kiln. Why fear a little high temperature? Continuing his descent, the water temperature remained constant. However, gradually, Zhongshan felt something even hotter.


    Fire elemental aura. When it touched his body, it felt like being engulfed in mes. Although it only asionally appeared, Zhongshan was certain that there would be more of this fire elemental aura the deeper he went.


    Because that trace of fire elemental aura made Zhongshan, who practiced the Great Yang Divine Technique, suddenly invigorated. Yes, it was this high temperature. It was even higher than in the kiln. Absorb it��only through absorption could he easily break through.


    Descending further, when the fire elemental aura became dense enough to be sensed every breath, Zhongshan felt his pores boiling. Now, he was at the peak of the Innate First Realm. Another breath, just one more breath, and he could break through.


    If only there was a quiet room here. It''s impossible to cultivate well here.


    Just as Zhongshan felt disappointed, suddenly, he saw a hole underwater. Through that hole, a faint red light was visible.


    It was worth noting that as he descended deeper, the bottom became darker. This sudden red light quickly attracted Zhongshan.


    Looking at the source of the red light, Zhongshan was surprised. Slowly approaching, he found that the hole could only amodate one person.


    Zhongshan slowly entered it. As he went deeper, the internal red light became brighter, and the fire elemental aura became denser. Zhongshan joyfully absorbed the fire elemental aura.


    Zhongshan suppressed the excitement in his heart because he thought of a term��Paradise. Could this be a paradise?


    After moving sideways for about an incense stick''s worth of time, he finally passed through the passage. There, he saw a red light filling the ce. It was another underwater passage. There was nothing below, including the previous hot spring. What about above?


    Zhongshan quickly swam upwards and reached the surface after a while.


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhongshan''s head emerged from the water.


    Inside, everything was bathed in red light. Zhongshan saw what looked like apletely sealed mountain cave. There was only one entrance, the same one he came through. On the other side of the cave, there was a tform. Zhongshan quickly climbed up naked.


    On the tform, Zhongshan looked towards the corner, the source of the red light.


    A nt. A ck root stem, two purple leaves, and at the top of the nt, a fist-sized red fruit.


    The red fruit was the source of the red light, emitting arge amount of it. Moreover, around the red fruit, it seemed as if mes were burning. Zhongshan knew they weren''t mes but rather spiritual energy, fire elemental spiritual energy. That''s why the fire elemental aura here was so dense.


    Swallow the fruit? Zhongshan dared not do it now. Take it out? Even more so. There was arge amount of fire elemental aura floating in the cave. His true qi was very scarce of this spiritual energy.


    Cross-legged, Zhongshan quickly started cultivating the Great Yang Divine Technique. After an hour, Zhongshan found that the speed of cultivation inside was more than ten times faster than in the kiln. Feeling the benefits of this ce, Zhongshan immediately decided to cultivate here from now on.


    Looking at the me fruit, Zhongshan quickly jumped into the water, dived, and soon emerged from the other end of the cave, returning to the previous hot spring passage.


    Swimming to the hot spring exit, he took his clothes, Windchaser Boots, and broadsword, along with some dry rations, and dived again into the passage to the inner small paradise.


    Zhongshan temporarily named this small paradise the "me Fruit Paradise." Finding arge stone, he blocked the entrance that connected to the hot spring. At least, he couldn''t let the red light leak out anymore.


    Then, he began to cultivate in seclusion inside. When hungry, he ate some dry rations. When thirsty, he drank some water.


    The red light inside was mainly emitted by the fruit, and the fire elemental aura had no color. Zhongshan didn''t expect the aura to condense enough to show color. Being able to cultivate here fulfilled all his requirements.


    One monthter.


    "Ha!"


    Zhongshan roared, punching out with both fists, emitting a strong fiery red qi.


    Innate Second Realm.


    Finally, after four months, he reached the Innate Second Realm.


    Feeling the progress of his cultivation, Zhongshan''s eyes showed intense satisfaction. Then, his eyes were filled with determination again. The Crown Prince of Heaven, hadn''t he reached the Nascent Soul stage a long time ago? His eyes narrowed, reaffirming his determination.


    Running out of food, he had to go back and replenish.


    Carefully observing the me fruit, Zhongshan leaped into the water. Emerging from the cave entrance, he found arge stone and sealed the entrance before floating to the surface of the hot springke.


    After surfacing, he used his true qi to dry his clothes and, carrying his broadsword, he ran back to where he came from a month ago.


    On the way, he encountered some demonic beasts. The powerful ones, Zhongshan didn''t dare provoke, but he dealt with those of the same level as the mountain cat he encounteredst time. This time, without using the Red Phoenix Scripture or the Heavenly Demon Tempering Technique, he still managed to defeat the mountain cat. Though covered in blood, he was noticeably more powerful than before.


    Four months had passed. In the fourth month, Zhongshan reached the Innate Second Realm.


    In the evening, carrying the mountain cat''s corpse, he returned to his small courtyard.


    In his small courtyard, Zhongshan also hung up a small que, "Listening to the Water Pavilion."


    Putting down the mountain cat''s corpse, he checked his vegetable garden and saw that the rice in the field was ripe, and the vegetables were ready.


    It took him a day to harvest all the vegetables and rice, cook some food, and then continue cultivating.


    Five dayster, after nting new vegetables in the garden and new crops in the field

 Chapter 17 - Seventeen: Beiqing Si

    <h4>Chapter 17: Chapter Seventeen: Beiqing Si</h4>


    Apanying the two for a while, they agreed to meet here at this time every month, unable to find each other at other times. So, they bid farewell to the two.


    Watching their departing figures, Zhongshan shook his head. These were flowers under ss,cking in experience and cunning.


    With provisions in hand, Zhongshan once again headed to the Fire Fruit Cave, continuing his cultivation of the Great Yang Divine Technique within.


    Having chosen an excellent technique for cultivation, he was already at the second stage of innate strength. Among this group of people, someone had already reached the third stage, even though their technique was top-notch. Zhongshan couldn''t help but feel that his progress was slower than theirs due to his poor aptitude. He had to rely on relentless effort, working harder than others to make progress.


    So Zhongshan continued to practice and cultivate in the Fire Fruit Cave. When he grew weary of practice, he ventured into the mountains to hunt demons, engaging in battles to further increase his strength.


    It had been eight months since Zhongshan arrived at the Kaiyang Sect, yet he still hadn''t broken through to the second stage. Even in the advantageous environment of the Fire Fruit Cave, he couldn''t achieve the breakthrough. Zhongshan remained patient; if breakthrough didn''te, he would continue to work hard. Hadn''t the past decades been like this? Patience was key!


    Returning to the Listening Water Pavilion, the rice had ripened once again. Standing outside the courtyard, Zhongshan no longer chopped wood. As time passed, he discovered that while his aptitude for internal cultivation was poor, hisprehension was exceptionally strong. His swordsmanship had be impable, and he could urately split wood with just a nce.


    Due to his poor aptitude, his internal cultivation progress was slow, but his external cultivation was exceptionally rapid.


    The Great Yang Divine Technique, with its mighty strikes and decisive kills, had been thoroughly mastered by Zhongshan. Yet, he practiced it diligently every day, focusing even more on the simplest swordsmanship techniques. What used to be chopping wood had now be splitting stones. Zhongshan now sought out the patterns on the stones, though invisible to the eye, he could sense them when striking, aiming for the weakest point in the stone.


    It sounded easy, but it was incredibly difficult in practice, requiring extreme precision.


    During Zhongshan''s time at the Listening Water Pavilion, Nan Batian and Tian Linger also came to visit him.


    "Zhongshan, did you know? Overnight, Third Senior Sister''s hair and eyebrows turnedpletely white," Nan Batian said bluntly, picking up a cup of tea.


    Zhongshan knew exactly who Third Senior Sister was. With her confidence in reaching the Golden Core stage, she had long positioned herself as one of the second-generation disciples of the Kaiyang Sect.


    "Her hair turned white?" Zhongshan frowned, looking at Nan Batian.


    "Yes, but it''s very beautiful, not dull white, but incredibly glossy white. It''s remarkably beautiful," Nan Batian said, with a hint of admiration.


    "Of course, it''s not dull white. ording to my father, Third Senior Sister''s hair turned white because it triggered her bloodline inheritance. Only her n has this ability. But when I asked my father, he wouldn''t say, and when I asked Senior Sister Qing Si, she wouldn''t reveal it either. So annoying," Tian Linger said, sipping her tea.


    "Bloodline inheritance?" Zhongshan looked at the two.


    "Yes, it''s said that bloodline inheritance is an ability possessed only by some special family bloodlines. It seems quite powerful," Tian Linger said thoughtfully.


    "So it''s bloodline inheritance," Nan Batian suddenly realized.


    "By the way, Little Nanzi, I heard you also have bloodline inheritance, but it seems it hasn''t appeared for several generations. What''s your bloodline inheritance?" Tian Linger immediately asked.


    "Me? Who said I have one? I don''t," Nan Batian quickly shook his head.


    "My father said so," Tian Linger insisted.


    "I don''t know," Nan Batian said, his face stiff, refusing to admit.


    "If you won''t say, then forget it," Tian Linger''s expression hardened.


    Watching Tian Linger, Zhongshan shook his head and smiled. Though Tian Linger was a bit naive and straightforward, being around her inexplicably brought joy, making it the best rxation during cultivation.


    "There are still four months left until your first year gathering. Haven''t you made a breakthrough yet?" Nan Batian asked Zhongshan.


    "Not yet. I n to spend more time out this time. We''ll meet again at the gathering," Zhongshan said to them.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s determination, both knew he might be pushing himself in training and nodded in understanding.


    "Work hard," Tian Linger said with concern.


    "Rest assured," Zhongshan nodded calmly.


    After seeing off the two, Zhongshan this time brought enough dry rations and cured meat.


    This time, within the next four months, he must break through to the third stage of innate strength.


    In four days, the gathering for new disciples'' first year would begin.


    Zhongshan ** sat in the Fire Fruit Cave, reaching the most crucial moment. Perhaps, at the next moment, he would finally reach the third stage of innate strength. Red light surged around Zhongshan''s body, with a thick red aura swirling like smoke around him.


    Sweat trickled down Zhongshan''s forehead. He continued to exert himself, striving for the final breakthrough.


    "Zha~~~"


    With a loud shout, all the sweat on Zhongshan''s body evaporated. His eyes widened with bloodshot veins, but an excited expression broke through. Finally, he had broken through to the third stage of innate strength.


    It was exhausting. Zhongshan resented his poor aptitude, which had caused him to endure such hardships. But it was precisely this hardship that made Zhongshan''s will incredibly firm.


    After lightly adjusting his breath at the third stage of innate strength, Zhongshan slowly put on his clothes and wind-chasing boots, preparing to go out and wait at the Listening Water Pavilion for the gathering of new disciples'' first year. Because Zhongshan knew that on that day, all the second-generation disciples, as well as the sect master and peak masters, would personally attend. If he was lucky enough to receive guidance from any of them, it would save him from many detours.


    At the moment Zhongshan reached the third stage of innate strength, a white figure floated through the hot spring valley connected to the Fire Fruit Cave.


    The woman was dressed all in white, with white hair, white eyebrows, and fair skin. Her bright eyes shone like stars, and she floated on a snow-white longsword, appearing ethereal and transcendent.


    She was breathtakingly beautiful, like a snow lotus on an iceberg, exuding an aura of purity. The only w was her eyes, which seemed otherworldly, as if they saw through everything with a hint of indifference.


    As the woman descended into the valley, she stood on therge stone where Zhongshan had once dried his clothes, crouching slightly. Her fair skin glided gently through the warm spring water, entuating her figure that would make any man''s adrenaline surge. At this moment, even a high monk about to enter nirvana would have thoughts of renouncing monkhood upon witnessing such a scene.


    The woman seemed to have a cleanliness obsession; everything she wore was white, including the bracelet she wore, which was spotless. With a flip of her hand, she took out sixteen small gs from the storage bracelet.


    Throwing the gs in all directions, theynded in various corners of the valley, forming a formation.


    With a wave of her hand and a spell, the valley was suddenly shrouded in countless white mists, obscuring the view from outside.


    Of course, this formation was not only for concealment but also to create a sealed space.


    Feeling the formationplete, the woman gently untied her belt and slowly removed her clothes, leaving nothing on her body. With her snow-white hair draped over her shoulders, she gracefully entered the hot spring, bathing her perfect figure.


    Gently washing her delicate body with the spring water, she enjoyed the sensation of soaking in the hot spring. Sitting on a smooth pebble, leaning against arge stone, she left only her head above the water''s surface, closing her eyes to rx.


    Elsewhere, Zhongshan, at the bottom of the hot spring, finally sealed the Fire Fruit Cave and slowly swam upwards.


    It was deep at the bottom of the hot spring, typically taking the time of an incense stick to swim to the surface. Zhongshan remained calm, swimming slowly upwards.


    After an incense stick''s time, as if feeling she had soaked enough in the hot spring, the woman rose gently, walking slowly towards the shore. When the hot spring water only reached her knees, she once again admired her perfect body. cing her hand on her chest and giving it a gentle pat, she suddenly paused, her eyes freezing.


    "Bang~~~" Suddenly, from the center of the hot springke, Zhongshan, dressed in white, burst out of the water.

 Chapter 18: Enchanting Encounter

    <h4>Chapter 18: Enchanting Encounter</h4>


    "Bang~~~"


    Zhongshan burst out of the water, leaping towards the shore. His trajectory coincidentally brought him towards the white-haired woman.


    Midair, Zhongshan froze. Simultaneously, the woman, still with her hand on her chest, also froze. With the sudden appearance of a person in the hot spring, both were stunned.


    A man? How could this be? The woman couldn''t believe her eyes. Never before had any man seen her body. What should she do?


    Zhongshan, too, saw this astonishing scene. His eyes were filled with whiteness��white skin, white hair, even the unseen parts of her body, all covered in snow-white hair. It wasn''t the aged whiteness but a glossy silver-white hue. Only a few pink spots and ck eyes caught his attention.


    In midair, Zhongshan quickly grasped the situation. He recognized her��Bei Qingsi, definitely Bei Qingsi, the second-generation third senior sister of Kaiyang Sect, a master at the Golden Core stage. Why was she here? And why was she not wearing clothes?


    Zhongshan realized the gravity of the situation.


    Unable to leverage in midair, he could only pounce towards Bei Qingsi. But if he trulynded on her, he would be doomed. Bei Qingsi was at the Golden Core stage. Intruding upon her bathing ce, would she kill him to silence him?


    What to do? What to do? Zhongshan was frantic in midair.


    However, at this moment, Bei Qingsi finally came to her senses.


    "Ah~~~~"


    With a scream of shock, in her panic, she sent Zhongshan flying with a palm strike.


    "Boom~~~"


    With no resistance, Zhongshan was sent flying backward.


    "Bang~~~"


    As if hitting something, Zhongshan fell back into the hot spring.


    "Poof~~~"


    Zhongshan coughed up a mouthful of blood, a wry smile on his face. He had brought this upon himself.


    Weakly swimming to the shore, Zhongshany half-propped against it, feeling extremely frail.


    Bei Qingsi''s palm had shattered Zhongshan''s chest clothes into a palm-shaped imprint, leaving a red mark on his chest that slowly turned purple, then ck. Zhongshan felt turmoil inside; if not for his Tempering Demon Body technique, he might have perished from that strike.


    "Creak~~~"


    Bei Qingsi had already dressed herself, a white longsword now pressed against Zhongshan''s throat. She looked at him withplex emotions, lightly biting her lip. It seemed as if she wanted to kill Zhongshan with a sword, but instead of thrusting it in, she merely held it at his throat.


    At this moment of life and death, Zhongshan was anxious. Injuries could be healed, but death was final.


    With a flicker of movement, he activated the Red Phoenix Scripture, ready to unleash the Phoenix Mist. But he dared not, for the white sword was at his throat. He had to wait until the sword moved away to use the Phoenix Mist, or else he''d be doomed.


    "Cough, Miss, I unintentionally offended you just now. I, Zhongshan, was already submerged in the hot spring. You cameter," Zhongshan saidboriously.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Bei Qingsi''s pupils contracted, and the longsword at his throat also twitched slightly.


    "You, you''re Zhongshan?" Bei Qingsi asked, her expression extremelyplex. It was as if she would immediately kill him if he denied being Zhongshan.


    "Yes, I am Zhongshan, the new disciple from a year ago," Zhongshan said. He sensed an opportunity but remained vignt, not daring to let his guard down with the Phoenix Mist ready.


    "A year ago, the one who brought back the jade slip?" Bei Qingsi looked at Zhongshan with aplicated expression. Her gaze seemed to convey the most difficult thing in the world, her eyes filled with utmostplexity.


    Though Zhongshan didn''t understand why Bei Qingsi looked like that, he nodded.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s acknowledgment, Bei Qingsi suddenly sheathed her sword and closed her eyes, tilting her head back slightly as if recalling something extremely sad.


    At this moment, Zhongshan realized he might be safe. Though he didn''t understand why Bei Qingsi was so concerned about that jade slip, her demeanor indicated that her intent to kill him had dissipated.


    "Thank you," Bei Qingsi suddenly opened her eyes, a deep sadness shing in them as she looked at Zhongshan.


    "Thank me? Thank me for what? Seeing you bathe?" Zhongshan frowned, and Bei Qingsi seemed to realize she misspoke. She quickly corrected herself, "Thank you for delivering the jade slip."


    "No problem," Zhongshan nodded without saying more.


    "This is a Revitalizing Pill. Consider today''s incident forgotten," Bei Qingsi suddenly tossed a small white bottle to Zhongshan. Then, with a flick of her hand, she dispelled the clouds around them, grabbed the sixteen small gs, threw the flying sword, lightly stepped on it, and disappeared from Zhongshan''s sight.


    Watching Bei Qingsi leave, Zhongshan felt relieved. At that moment, the Red Phoenix Mist vanished from his palm.


    ncing at the pale small bottle, Zhongshan gently opened it, and a fragrant aroma wafted out. He sealed the bottle back.


    Zhongshan didn''t know what a Revitalizing Pill was, but he was sure it was a kind of miraculous medicine for healing injuries. He decided to keep it for the most critical moments, especially after the rigorous Tempering Demon Body technique practice, which always left him heavily wounded.


    Quickly diving back into the hot spring, Zhongshan began healing in the me Fruit Cave. Three dayster, he had fully recovered.


    Exiting the me Fruit Cave, Zhongshan sealed the entrance carefully, then cautiously left the hot spring to ensure there was no danger before heading to the Listening Waters Pavilion.


    After changing clothes and resting for a while, Zhongshan slung his big knife and made his way to the square below Kaiyang Peak. The first-year gathering for new disciples was about to begin.


    When Zhongshan arrived at the square, dozens of people were already present. All the new disciples recruited a year ago were gathered, except for Bei Qingsi.


    Nan Batian stood in front, just like a year ago, surveying the arriving disciples. Upon seeing Zhongshan, he gave him a nod, and Zhongshan immediately understood, positioning himself properly.


    "After a year, we meet again. Today''s gathering will assess everyone''s cultivation progress. Those whose progress iscking have ten days to enter the Scripture Repository to choose a new technique. The rest, with the highest achievement being at the Early Stage of the Innate Realm, please step forward," Nan Batian announced.


    "Yes!" the new disciples responded eagerly.


    "Stand properly. The elders wille to inspect shortly," Nan Batian ordered.


    "Yes!" the new disciples replied enthusiastically.


    As Nan Batian finished speaking, within moments, over twenty figures descended from Kaiyang Peak.


    A white cloud carried everyone, with three Nascent Soul stage powerhouses at the forefront, followed by the second-generation disciples.


    When they reached the ground, Patriarch Tianxingzi waved his sleeve, dispelling the white cloud beneath their feet, revealing that he had created it.


    Among the group, Zhongshan didn''t see Bei Qingsi, but Tianling''er was following Patriarch Tianxingzi closely.


    Patriarch and Peak Master carefully surveyed the people on the square. Zhongshan had heard Tianling''er mention before that those two levels higher in cultivation could see through the cultivation of those lower by two levels. Thus, Nascent Soul stage cultivators could see through the cultivation of those at the Innate Realm, but Golden Core stage cultivators couldn''t.


    After inspecting everyone, the Patriarch and Peak Master''s eyes showed some satisfaction. However, when they saw Zhongshan, a hint of curiosity shed in their eyes.


    The Early Stage of the Innate Realm? Had Zhongshan''s talent progressed so rapidly within a year?


    After a moment of contemtion, the Patriarch and Peak Master shook their heads slightly, not paying much attention. After all, although Zhongshan had reached the Early Stage of the Innate Realm, he still hadn''t caught their attention.


    "I have assessed your cultivation levels. Those who haven''t made significant progress have ten days to choose a new technique in the Scripture Repository. The rest, with the highest achievement being at the Early Stage of the Innate Realm, pleasee forward," Patriarch Tianxingzi said.


    Soon, four excited disciples stepped forward briskly. Three men and one woman stood at the forefront among the disciples.


    Seeing these four, several second-generation disciples behind Patriarch Tianxingzi showed a hint of joy. Obviously, these four were the disciples they had chosen as their future sessors.


    "Good. Early Stage of the Innate Realm. ording to the rules of Kaiyang Sect, the top three neers will each receive a Lingering Pearl. However, there are now four of you," Patriarch Tianxingzi suddenly said.


    Upon hearing this, the four frowned. Lingering Pearl?


    Hearing the term Lingering Pearl, Zhongshan also raised his eyebrows, his eyes showing a hint of excitement. Lingering Pearl?


    Others might not know, but Zhongshan had heard Nan Batian mention it before. The Lingering Pearl was a fixed magical treasure, a foundation for creating a magical treasure. It must be used as a carrier for the magical treasure.


    His Windchaser Boots were not yet a magical treasure.


    Magical treasures were divided into nine grades, with the weakest being Grade One and the highest being Grade Nine. The function of the Lingering Pearl was to form an embryo ording to the thoughts and ideas of the owner��a formless embryo that could then be infused with the necessary materials to create the desired magical treasure. After that, continuous refinement with one''s true energy and cultivation would eliminate impurities within, allowing for the infusion of more materials to create increasingly powerful magical treasures.


    Zhongshan knew that good magical treasures were formed through continuous refinement

 Chapter 19: The Fierce Duel

    <h4>Chapter 19: The Fierce Duel</h4>


    Nantian, standing aside, began exining the powers of the Ethereal Pearl. As he spoke, everyone''s eyes lit up with excitement, focusing intently on Tianxingzi. The Ethereal Pearl? A magical artifact?


    Everyone''s gaze turned to the sect leader, filled with intense desire. Of course, this yearning was solely for the Ethereal Pearl. Only those with advanced cultivation levels showed such longing, while those progressing slowly could only sigh in disappointment.


    "Now, we need to determine the three strongest among you. If anyone below the fourth level of innate cultivation believes they have the strength, they may challenge those above them. If victorious, they too can earn the Ethereal Pearl," Tianxingzi announced, looking around at the crowd.


    At that moment, a man in white robes stepped forward from the group. Approaching the four cultivators at the fourth level of innate cultivation, he sped his hands in respect towards the sect leader and the peak masters, saying, "Although I am only at the third level of innate cultivation, I am willing to give my all in this fight."


    "Good," Tianxingzi responded.


    Seeing this man step up, Zhongshan also slowly emerged from the crowd.


    "Disciple Zhongshan, willing to give my all," Zhongshan respectfully dered.


    "Good," Tianxingzi repeated, his eyes shining as if he had thought of something.


    No one else dared to step forward. The cultivators understood the significance of each level, knowing they couldn''t defeat someone at the fourth level of innate cultivation.


    "You two at the third level, choose your opponents. The remaining two at the fourth level will then fight each other. We will determine the winners in a single round," Tianxingzi ordered.


    "Yes," the six of them replied in unison.


    The white-robed man quickly chose one of the women, perhaps believing that even though she was at the fourth level, her strength might be less than his. Zhongshan looked at the remaining three men.


    Unfamiliar with their skills and knowing nothing about them, Zhongshan randomly pointed to the man holding an axe. In Zhongshan''s mind, a longer weapon held an advantage, and hisrge saber was longer than the axe.


    The chosen man seemed pleased, as if he had just gotten a great deal. He thought it would be easy to defeat someone at the third level.


    "Good. Spread out and begin," Tianxingzimanded.


    Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, they moved to three different spots in the za. Zhongshan and the man with the axe headed to the west. The other two pairs took the central and eastern areas.


    Tianling''er and Nantian moved close to Zhongshan, cheering him on.


    "Please," Zhongshan said, holding his saber horizontally.


    "You first," the man with the axe replied with a dismissive smile, clearly looking down on someone at the third level.


    "Then, excuse me," Zhongshan said.


    With a leap, Zhongshan swung his saber fiercely at his opponent.


    "Mountain-Cleaving Strike!"


    Putting his full strength into the attack, Zhongshan knew he had to give his all, especially against a formidable opponent at the fourth level of innate cultivation.


    Seeing the ferocity of the attack, the man tightened his grip, realizing he had underestimated Zhongshan. He raised his giant axe to meet the saber.


    "Boom!"


    The saber, brimming with murderous energy, struck the axe forcefully, causing the man to stagger.


    "Crack!"


    The stone b beneath his feet cracked like a spider web.


    Seeing his initial strike fail, Zhongshan''s ferocity intensified. He swung his saber again.


    "y Them All!"


    The second strike came quickly. Although the man wielded an axe, he was surprisingly agile, blocking Zhongshan''s saber again. Using his superior strength, he deflected the saber, his abundant innate energy giving him an edge over Zhongshan.


    "Hmph," Zhongshan grunted coldly, his saber continuing to dance, each strike fierce and relentless. His attacks came like a torrential storm, each one faster and more violent, appearing almost mad to the onlookers. To those watching, it seemed like Zhongshan had gone berserk. Any third-level cultivator facing him would have no choice but to surrender.


    But his opponent was at the fourth level, stronger and faster. The only thing hecked was Zhongshan''s ferocity. Zhongshan seemed wholly immersed in the battle, utterly determined.


    Yet, ferocity alone wasn''t enough. The man gradually turned the tide, shifting from defense to offense. The stone bs beneath their feet shattered further as the duel became more intense, each disying their skills to the fullest.


    Zhongshan knew he couldn''t keep this up. His understanding of saber techniques and his fighting spirit allowed him to match his opponent, but hecked the energy reserves of a fourth-level cultivator. The longer the fight dragged on, the worse it would be for him.


    "Devil Body Refinement Technique!"


    "Mountain-Cleaving Strike!" Zhongshan roared, his muscles bulging, the murderous aura of his saber surging. His eyes reddened as he struck down fiercely.


    Seeing the impending danger, the man used all his strength to meet the attack with his axe.


    "Boom!"


    With a resounding crash, the man was sent flying, his giant axe knocked from his grip. As Zhongshannded, he red menacingly at his opponent, whose wrist was now bleeding profusely.


    Defeated. The man had lost. Such an injury would take at least half a month to heal.


    "Huff..."


    Zhongshan exhaled deeply, calming his breathing as he slowly turned around. When he did, he noticed that the new batch of disciples was staring at him in disbelief. A cultivator at the third level of innate cultivation defeating one at the fourth level?


    On the other two battlegrounds, the fights had already ended. The other third-level cultivator had been defeated, and one of the fourth-level cultivators had also lost.


    Seeing this, Tianling''er whispered to Zhongshan, "Well done."


    Nan Batian merely smiled without saying much. Though surprised, he didn''t regard the prowess of third or fourth-level cultivators as particrly noteworthy.


    Meanwhile, the second-generation disciples of the Kaiyang Sect furrowed their brows, casting curious nces at Zhongshan. Suspicion flickered in their eyes.


    The sect leader and the two peak masters exchanged nces, a strange look passing between them. Finally, Tianxingzi smiled peculiarly, his eyes brightening as he gazed at Zhongshan.


    The three defeated contestants naturally retreated into the crowd of new disciples. Zhongshan, along with the other two fourth-level cultivators, approached the sect leader.


    "Good. You three are the top disciples of this batch. Here are three Ethereal Pearls," Tianxingzi announced.


    As he spoke, three fist-sized, translucent pearls appeared before him. Gently picking one up, Zhongshan found it surprisingly soft. Ethereal Pearls?


    Without examining it closely, Zhongshan tucked it into his robe, deciding to study itter.


    "Good. The Ethereal Pearls have been distributed. In fifteen days, the three of you wille to the Kaiyang Hall. I have something for you," Tianxingzi said.


    "Yes," Zhongshan and the other two responded in unison, though puzzled.


    "Return to your quarters or choose a new cultivation technique," Tianxingzi instructed.


    "Yes, Sect Leader," all the disciples replied immediately.


    The disciples then approached the second-generation disciples standing behind the sect leader to discuss their cultivation progress. The Golden Core stage experts offered guidance.


    "Zhongshan, you did great!" Nan Batian said with a smile. Tianling''er also approached Zhongshan with a smile.


    "Yes, I need to look at some techniques. Tonight,e to my pavilion by the water, and we can discuss more," Zhongshan said to them.


    "Okay," they agreed readily.


    Zhongshan immediately headed towards the library.


    As Zhongshan''s figure receded, Tianxingzi furrowed his brow, a bright glint shing in his eyes before he and the two peak masters flew away.


    In the library, Zhongshan found another innate cultivation technique.


    "Shadow Assault Technique."


    Zhongshan had noticed this manual before. The name alone suggested it was a technique focused on ambushes. Zhongshan didn''t intend to practice it himself but nned to give it to someone else.


    Three hourster, in the Great Kun Kingdom, his hidden body copied the manual while Zhongshan himself returned to the waterside pavilion. The reason he hadn''t copied it earlier was that he wanted to memorize it first. Zhongshan knew that memorizing a text the first time provided different insightspared toter reflections. If he copied it and then memorized it, it wouldn''t be the same as memorizing it word by word first and then reflecting on it. Though the difference might be slight, those subtle nuances could offer significant insights.


    Back at the pavilion, Zhongshan gently took out the Ethereal Pearl.

 Chapter 20: Nightmare

    20 Chapter 20: Nightmare


    As Zhongshan looked at the Ethereal Pearl in his hand, his mind was already made up. His weapon of choice was a saber, a form he had long envisioned. Gripping the Ethereal Pearl, Zhongshan followed the method Tianling''er had taught him. He used the de to cut a small incision on his hand, letting the blood fill the Ethereal Pearl.


    Once filled with his blood, the Ethereal Pearl seemed to establish a spiritual connection with Zhongshan. Under his mental direction, the shape of the Ethereal Pearl gradually changed, elongating until it took the form of arge saber.


    Standing at about six feet tall, Zhongshan''s saber extended to five feet, appearing extremely aggressive. The de hadrge grooves, and the back was adorned with six massive spikes aligned with the saber''s edge, giving it an exceptionally fierce appearance, much like Zhongshan himself.


    But for now, it was just a transparent mold.


    Next, it needed to be infused with metal.


    ncing at his current saber, Zhongshan didn''t hesitate. He merged it into the mold. As soon as it touched the mold, the saber seemed to be absorbed, melting and fusing with the energy within the mold.


    The metal wasn''t sufficient, so Zhongshan took a sword from his pavilion and added it to the mix. He also found an axe and threw it in, finally filling the moldpletely.


    Now, it was a basic first-grade magical weapon. From here, it would need to be tempered with true energy and true essence, nurtured with his spirit, to develop a consciousness and continuously advance in grade.


    Looking at his first magical weapon, a trace of sadness flickered in Zhongshan''s eyes.


    "Liangtian Crown Prince, this saber will be your nightmare. From today, it shall be called ''Nightmare,''" Zhongshan said, stroking the de.


    "Zhongshan, are you back?" Tianling''er called from outside.


    Zhongshan opened the door to see Nan Batian and Tianling''er approaching the pavilion.


    "Whoa, you''ve already refined it? This saber looks fierce," Nan Batian eximed, staring at the weapon in Zhongshan''s hand.


    "Yeah, it looks really fierce. You look fierce, and this saber''s shape is just as fierce," Tianling''er added.


    "Have a seat. I''ll get something to drink," Zhongshan said.


    The three of them sat at the stone table by the small pond outside the courtyard.


    "Zhongshan, you were amazing today. A third-level innate cultivator defeating a fourth-level one? That guy must be fuming," Tianling''er said.


    "Yeah, I heard that among the four fourth-level innate cultivators, he was the second strongest. It''s unheard of for someone to defeat a higher-level opponent like that," Nan Batian added.


    "Who says? Senior Brother can also challenge higher levels. Didn''t he say he killed someone with higher cultivation than himst time?" Tianling''er argued.


    "You didn''t see it yourself," Nan Batian replied skeptically.


    "Senior Brother wouldn''t lie!" Tianling''er insisted, growing agitated.


    Watching them bicker, Zhongshan didn''t interrupt or mind. Fighting and defeating stronger opponents wasn''t difficult, as life-and-death situations often involved many schemes and tactics. However, being with these two brought Zhongshan greatfort. Though they had higher cultivation levels, they were younger and more naive, almost like younger siblings to him.


    "The Sect Leader mentioned meeting again in fifteen days. What does that mean?" Zhongshan suddenly remembered Tianxingzi''s words from earlier.


    "Oh, you don''t know? This time, we can go out and experience the world," Tianling''er said excitedly.


    "Experience the world?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yes, it''s a chance to gain real-world experience, to test our skills and grow stronger. It''s a significant opportunity," Tianling''er exined.


    Understanding dawned on Zhongshan, and he nodded slowly. This was a chance not just for growth but for him to take a step closer to his ultimate goals.


    "Indeed, it''s time for some real training. Last time, my father took me out, but he barely let me do anything before we returned. This time, I finally have the chance to go out on my own. No more looking at his stern face, hmph!" Tian Ling''er wrinkled her small nose, looking adorably defiant.


    "Who''s going? Am I supposed to go too?" Zhong Shan furrowed his brow.


    Zhong Shan didn''t want to go. He understood that the spiritual energy outside wasn''t as abundant as in Kaiyang Sect, and he had found a small cave where his cultivation progressed much faster than it would outside.


    "Not necessarily. It''s all voluntary. But most people will go because, like me, they''ve been cooped up here for years and are eager to see the outside world. Some want to return to the mortal realm to see their families," Tian Ling''er exined.


    "Hmm." Zhong Shan nodded. Since it was voluntary, he decided not to go.


    "Ling''er, Ba Tian, are you both here?" A voice suddenly echoed from thin air.


    It was the Sect Master, Tian Xingzi''s voice.


    "Father? What are you doing here?" Tian Ling''er called out, looking around.


    Momentster, they saw the Sect Master, Tian Xingzi, descend from the sky,nding in front of Zhong Shan''s stone table.


    "Uncle Tian," Nan Ba Tian also greeted.


    Tian Xingzi nodded and, without ceremony, took a seat by the stone table. Looking at Zhong Shan, he said, "Zhong Shan, sit down. I didn''t expect that with your physique, you''ve achieved so much in just a year. You must have been training very diligently."


    "Of course, Father. You wouldn''t believe it. Look at that kiln over there. Zhong Shan built it for his training. He''s been fighting with beasts in the mountains to improve so quickly," Tian Ling''er interjected.


    Tian Xingzi nced at the kiln, then at Tian Ling''er and Nan Ba Tian, and smiled slightly.


    "You and Ba Tian go over there for now. I need to talk to Zhong Shan," Tian Xingzi said.


    "What can''t I hear?" Tian Ling''er pouted, unwilling.


    "It''s very important," Tian Xingzi said sternly.


    "Alright." Tian Ling''er nodded reluctantly and walked away with Nan Ba Tian.


    With a wave of his hand, Tian Xingzi enveloped the area in a five-meter radius in a cloud of white mist, isting them from the others.


    Zhong Shan frowned, unsure of Tian Xingzi''s intentions.


    "Zhong Shan," Tian Xingzi said seriously.


    "Yes, Sect Master," Zhong Shan replied promptly.


    "Rx. To achieve such results in a year with your constitution is astonishing. It shows you are determined and unafraid of hardship. An eighty-year-old mortal body obtaining a Forbidden Pill��regardless of how you got it��I believe your mind is far from naive like Ling''er''s. You have wisdom and diligence," Tian Xingzi said.


    Zhong Shan remained silent, guessing Tian Xingzi''s intentions and waiting for him to continue.


    "So, I have a favor to ask," Tian Xingzi said, looking at Zhong Shan.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan frowned slightly, not agreeing immediately but instead looking at Tian Xingzi, "Please, tell me."


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s cautious attitude, Tian Xingzi smiled with satisfaction.


    "Ling''er and Ba Tian will surely go out in a few days. Ba Tian can handle himself; he''s a boy and we''ve given him a life-saving treasure. But Ling''er, I''m worried about her. I hope you can look after her and bring her back safely in a year," Tian Xingzi said solemnly.


    "Going out?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Ba Tian needs to train alone. Ling''er is too naive and is friends with you. With you, I''m reassured. If you bring her back safely in a year, I will personally guide your cultivation," Tian Xingzi said earnestly.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan''s eyes brightened. Personal guidance? That would be far better than his blind training.


    "Under my guidance, your cultivation will progress much faster. If you reach the Golden Core stage, I''ll take you as my disciple. How about it?" Tian Xingzi smiled slightly.


    For Tian Xingzi, it was a low-cost promise. If Zhong Shan, with his constitution, could reach the Golden Core stage, it would be worth taking him as a disciple. If not, he wouldn''t need to fulfill any promise. Personal guidance only required asional advice.


    But for Zhong Shan, the temptation was immense. Having a master would make his efforts much more efficient and save him from many detours.


    A year, just a year. It was worth it.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan agreed.


    "With that, I am reassured. I trust you," Tian Xingzi said, patting Zhong Shan''s shoulder with a smile. With a wave of his hand, the white mist dissipated.


    "Alright, continue your chat. I won''t disturb you any longer," Tian Xingzi said to the three of them with a smile. Stepping on a cloud, he left.


    "Zhong Shan, what did my father say?" Tian Ling''er immediately asked.


    "He asked me to go with you," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head slightly.

 Chapter 21: Heavenly Kill

    21 Chapter 21: Heavenly Kill


    Fifteen days passed in a blur. Zhong Shan, carrying hisrge de, stood in the grandest pce of the Kaiyang Sect��the Kaiyang Hall.


    Inside the hall stood twenty-five third-generation disciples. Among them, three were newly recruited a year ago, while the other twenty-two were seasoned third-generation disciples, all at least at the sixth level of the innate stage, possessing true essence.


    Zhong Shan stood slightly towards the back, next to Nan Ba Tian, listening to him introduce the various individuals. Tian Ling''er, however, was nowhere to be seen.


    Within Kaiyang Hall, there were three grand armchairs ced at the forefront, facing north, east, and west respectively.


    Soon, a group of people flew in from outside,nding at the hall''s entrance, and then each group stood behind one of the grand armchairs.


    To the west stood five women, to the east six men, and to the north only four people.


    Nan Ba Tian whispered, "These are the second-generation disciples, all at the Golden Core stage. After our meeting, they will probably have their own."


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded slightly.


    "The west group is from Snow Bamboo Peak, the east from me Mountain Peak, and the north from Kaiyang Peak," Nan Ba Tian exined.


    "Senior Brother," the second-generation disciples greeted respectfully towards the entrance.


    Zhong Shan looked over to see a man with a pale face and wearing a ck robe. He had sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, with a striking crimson mole between his brows, exuding an air of heroism. He wore a ck sword at his waist and walked slowly towards the north side, standing behind the grand armchair.


    "Senior Brother Tian Sha," Nan Ba Tian whispered to Zhong Shan.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded. He could feel the powerful aura emanating from Senior Brother Tian Sha. It wasn''t directed at anyone in particr but seemed to be a natural extension of his personality and cultivation technique.


    The arrival of Senior Brother Tian Sha drew everyone''s attention.


    After he took his position, he nced towards Snow Bamboo Peak, seemingly searching for someone. Seeing the adoring expressions of the women there, he frowned and looked away, not finding who he sought.


    "Senior Brother, you''re here!" Tian Ling''er''s excited voice suddenly called out from outside the hall.


    Tian Ling''er ran into the hall, stopping in front of Senior Brother Tian Sha.


    "I''ve reached the ninth level of the innate stage! Soon, I''ll reach the Golden Core stage, and then I can openly call you Senior Brother!" Tian Ling''er said joyfully, as if just talking to him made her incredibly happy.


    "Congrattions," Senior Brother Tian Sha replied politely.


    "Hmm!" Tian Ling''er nodded enthusiastically, thrilled to receive his blessing.


    "Ling''er, where are you standing?" Tian Xingzi''s stern voice called from outside the hall.


    Seeing her father, Tian Ling''er stuck out her tongue yfully and quickly ran over to Zhong Shan and Nan Ba Tian.


    From outside, Sect Master Tian Xingzi, me Mountain Peak Master Xuan Xinzi, and Snow Bamboo Peak Master Gu Shuangzi slowly walked in.


    The three leaders entered and approached the grand armchairs, sitting down and looking at the twenty-six elite third-generation disciples of the Kaiyang Sect.


    "Except for the three of you who were informed half a month ago, everyone else knows the purpose of this gathering: an expedition for training," Tian Xingzi said.


    "Yes," the disciples responded. The three neers who had been informed half a month ago also responded.


    "Now, does anyone wish to withdraw from the expedition?" Tian Xingzi asked.


    The hall was silent. Clearly, everyone was eager to go on this expedition. Even the other two neers showed no hesitation.


    "Good. This expedition is not only to broaden your horizons and refine your skills but also has another purpose," Tian Xingzi continued.


    As he spoke, he waved his hand, and a phantom appeared in his palm, formed by his magical power. It was the image of a handsome man in a white robe, with a pale face that looked somewhat frail. He held a purple fan and appeared very elegant.


    "Remember this person. This is thetest information I have received. His name is Hao San, and he is also at the innate stage, protected by one or two individuals. If possible, capture or kill him and bring back his body. The sect will reward you with a fourth-grade magical treasure and a fourth-grade pill," Tian Xingzi announced.


    Fourth grade? Zhong Shan was shocked. Fourth-grade items were incredibly valuable. The Sect Master''s treasures were only around fourth or fifth grade.


    "Yes," the disciples responded excitedly.


    "Regardless of whether you find him or not, everyone must return in a year," Tian Xingzi said.


    "Yes," the disciples answered immediately.


    "Good. Prepare yourselves and set off when you''re ready," Tian Xingzi instructed.


    "Yes," the disciples responded and then began to disperse.


    As Zhong Shan was about to leave the hall, he suddenly heard Tian Xingzi''s voice in his mind, "Zhong Shan, Ling''er, Ba Tian, meet me at Zhong Shan''s Listening Water Pavilion."


    Zhong Shan paused, and the other two did as well, but none of them turned back. They left the hall and headed towards the Listening Water Pavilion.


    Inside the hall, the Sect Master and the Peak Masters, along with the second-generation disciples, probably had more to discuss.


    At the Listening Water Pavilion.


    "Who do you think this Hao San is? Why does my father want him killed?" Tian Ling''er sat at the stone table, resting her chin on her hands as she gazed at the waterfall in front of her.


    "I''m not sure. Tian Bo must have something important to tell us," Nan Ba Tian said.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan busied himself preparing supplies, including arge amount of dried food and some medicinal herbs he had found in the mountains, making simple travel provisions.


    An hourter, Tian Xingzi descended from the sky.


    "Father, why did you take so long? We''re about to leave!" Tian Ling''er eximed impatiently.


    "Haha, can''t wait?" Tian Xingzi smiled at her.


    "Tian Bo," "Sect Master," they greeted him.


    "Yes, you''re about to set off. I have a few things to say to you. Ba Tian, this is a good opportunity for you to train. Understand the ways of the world, and only use the protective treasure I gave you in times of extreme danger," Tian Xingzi instructed seriously.


    "Yes," Nan Ba Tian replied.


    "You will be traveling alone, relying on yourself. Learn to be independent," Tian Xingzi said.


    "Yes," Nan Ba Tian nodded respectfully, though he felt Tian Xingzi was being overly cautious.


    "Alright, you can go now," Tian Xingzi said.


    "Ling''er, Brother Zhong Shan, I''m leaving first," Nan Ba Tian said.


    "Take care," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Go on," Tian Ling''er said, nodding as well.


    With that, Nan Ba Tian left.


    As soon as Nan Ba Tian was gone, Tian Xingzi turned to Tian Ling''er.


    "Ling''er, while you''re out, I have one requirement: stay by Zhong Shan''s side and listen to him in all matters," Tian Xingzi said seriously.


    "Father, Zhong Shan''s cultivation isn''t even higher than mine," Tian Ling''er pouted, clearly unhappy.


    "In the Kaiyang Sect, you can do as you please, but outside, you must listen to Zhong Shan. I''m making this clear now. If Zhong Shan returns and says you didn''t follow his instructions, you won''t be allowed to visit your mother''s grave for fifty years," Tian Xingzi said sternly.


    "Father, how can you say that!" Tian Ling''er was immediately flustered. Other punishments she could tolerate, but not being allowed to visit her mother''s grave?


    "Only if you agree to my condition will you be allowed to leave. Otherwise, you will stay in the Kaiyang Sect and cultivate until you reach the Golden Core stage," Tian Xingzi said firmly.


    With a bitter expression, Tian Ling''er looked at her father, then at Zhong Shan. Reluctantly, she thought about it. After all, Zhong Shan was her friend; she could still get him to do what she wanted.


    "Fine," Tian Ling''er said.


    "Good," Tian Xingzi nodded. He then turned to Zhong Shan.


    "Ling''er is in your care," Tian Xingzi said.


    "Sect Master, rest assured. In a year, I will return Ling''er to you safe and sound. I promise," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Good," Tian Xingzi nodded approvingly.


    Then, with a flip of his hand, Tian Xingzi produced an empty spirit pearl.


    He handed the spirit pearl to Zhong Shan and said, "Consider this your reward for looking after Ling''er. If you find a Sumeru Stone and ce it inside, it will be a storage item."


    "Thank you, Sect Master," Zhong Shan said, epting the pearl.


    Storage items, as Zhong Shan had recently learned from Tian Ling''er, required a spirit pearl and a Sumeru Stone to create an internal space. The more Sumeru Stones used, therger the internal space.


    However, Zhong Shan didn''t n to use the spirit pearl for storage but rather as aponent for a hidden weapon.


    "Be careful out there," Tian Xingzi said.


    "Yes, Sect Master," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Alright, alright, Father, you can go now. You''re so long-winded," Tian Ling''er said impatiently, clearly eager to set off.


    "Alright, I''ll leave now," Tian Xingzi smiled and then stepped onto a white cloud, flying away.


    "Let''s go," Tian Ling''er said immediately.


    "Have you prepared your things?" Zhong Shan asked.

 Chapter 22: The Dark Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 22: The Dark Emperor</h4>


    "The so-called secret code means that whenever I mention it, you must listen to me, no matter how unwilling you are. Otherwise, I will report to the sect master that you didn''t follow my instructions," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "What''s so fun about that? No, I don''t want to y," Tian Ling''er immediately refused, her face showing her reluctance.


    "No, this needs to be agreed upon beforehand. If what I ask you to do is unreasonable, you can inform the sect master. Even if he punishes me, I''ll ept it. But if you don''t agree to this, we won''t leave," Zhong Shan insisted, his expression grave.


    "Fine, fine, you''re so nagging. I''ll listen to you," Tian Ling''er replied, still unwilling.


    Seeing her expression, Zhong Shan smiled slightly. She truly had the demeanor of a youngdy.


    "Let''s choose something unique. Hmm, you like to eat ''osmanthus cakes,'' so we''ll use ''osmanthus cake'' as the code. Whenever I mention osmanthus cake, it means I''m very serious, and you must listen to me. Absolutely must," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Alright, alright, osmanthus cake, hehe!" Tian Ling''er couldn''t help butugh at the peculiar code. Who uses such a code?


    "Good. Since that''s settled, wait here. I''ll get my luggage, and we can leave together," Zhong Shan nodded and said.


    After speaking, Zhong Shan went into the house and returned with a massive bundle weighing at least fifty pounds. Carrying the bundle on his back and holding arge knife, he said, "Alright, let''s go."


    "Give it to me. I''ll put it in my storage bracelet. You look so tired," Tian Ling''er offered with a smile.


    Zhong Shan didn''t hesitate and handed her the bundle, keeping only therge knife in his hand.


    "s, my Red Silk is only a second-grade item and can only carry me. You use the Wind-Chasing Boots, and we''ll move quickly together," Tian Ling''er said.


    "Alright." With therge knife on his back, Zhong Shan channeled his qi and shot off in a particr direction.


    Tian Ling''er stepped onto a piece of red silk and flew alongside him, feeling incredibly happy about leaving.


    Knowing the way out of the mountain, Tian Ling''er quickly led Zhong Shan past the grand formation and out of the Kaiyang Sect.


    Outside the Kaiyang Sect, Zhong Shan nced at the small thatched hut, feeling a mix of emotions. He was now a member of the immortal sect.


    Zhong Shan didn''t greet the ''mountain guardian'' in the hut. Instead, he led Tian Ling''er and swiftly ran in a specific direction.


    It had taken several months to arrive, but leaving the mountain, Zhong Shan believed that with his current speed and the Wind-Chasing Boots, it would take no more than fifteen days to reach his manor.


    After running through the mountains for a day, they were both tired by nightfall. They found a pleasant spot, took out two hammocks from the bundle, tied them high up between the trees, and scattered some herbs around to ward off poisonous insects.


    "Alright, we''ll sleep here tonight," Zhong Shan said to Tian Ling''er.


    Seeing therge between the trees, Tian Ling''er''s eyes sparkled with excitement. She looked at Zhong Shan with admiration.


    "Zhong Shan, this is fantastic! How did you think of this?" Tian Ling''er immediately flew up to one of the hammocks, lying in it, wriggling around excitedly.


    Watching her innocent and lively demeanor, Zhong Shan shook his head without saying much. He too leapt into his hammock.


    "Alright, you look at the stars. I''m going to sleep first," Zhong Shan said.


    Lying in the hammock, staring at the star-filled sky and listening to the chirping of forest insects, Tian Ling''er was too excited to sleep anytime soon.


    At the same time, in the Zhong Mansion of the Great Kun Kingdom, Zhong Shan''s hidden body was sitting cross-legged inside a room.


    Silently, the hidden Zhong Shan stood up, picked up a small booklet from the table beside him. The booklet was titled "Secret Assault Techniques." It was something his main body had found in the Kaiyang Sect''s library not long ago. Inside the booklet was also a portrait, a picture of Hao San.


    Grasping the skill of stealth, his hidden form flickered slightly, transforming into a dark shadow, then indeed into a mere silhouette. Within the ck night, he slipped through the paper-thin cracks of the door and emerged. Beneath the moonlight, a ck figure streaked across the earth, galloping swiftly like a ghost, disappearing in the blink of an eye.


    Different from his true form, his hidden body seemed remarkably outstanding. The cultivation speed of the Taiyin True Scripture was extraordinarily fast. Whenever his true self made a breakthrough, his hidden self would immediately follow suit. However, this was also a major limitation of his hidden self. Currently, Zhongshan''s hidden strength had reached the third level of innate talent.


    An hourter, a shadow entered a valley. Within the valley stood numerous houses, well-concealed from view. The shadow of Zhongshan headed straight for the central hall. Above the hall''s que were three ck characters, "Dark Night Hall."


    Dark Night Hall, the nightmare of the high-ranking officials of the Great Kun Nation and five surrounding countries. It was the most powerful assassin hall, with countless killers inside and terrifying strength. It was rumored that even innate masters lurked within its ranks. Therefore, it was a term that struck fear into the hearts of people in the six nations.


    As Zhongshan approached the entrance of Dark Night Hall, his figure suddenly appeared. He walked slowly towards the interior, where only one person was present, a man studying arge map bymplight. The man didn''t notice Zhongshan''s entry until he fully stepped into the hall. Turning around, he drew a slender sword from his side.


    Upon seeing Zhongshan, the man visibly rxed. He was an average-looking man around fifty years old, the kind that would easily blend into a crowd unnoticed.


    "Master," the man greeted Zhongshan respectfully.


    "Ah, Anhuang, how many times do I have to tell you? We''re like brothers; there''s no need for such formality. Moreover, you''ve already reached the innate realm, but you''re unwilling to participate in the selection of the Immortal Sect. It''s unfair to you. " Zhongshan shook his head.


    "Master, Anhuang owes his life to you. It''s because of you that Anhuang was able to avenge his family and n. Anhuang has sworn loyalty to you for life, withoutint or regret. There''s no question of unfairness," Anhuang said respectfully.


    "You''re now the Lord of Dark Night Hall. The aristocratic families and royal families of the surrounding countries all fear you," Zhongshan said, smiling and shaking his head.


    "Everything is because of Master. Dark Night Hall will always be loyal to you," Anhuang replied immediately.


    "Well, I won''t say much more to prevent you from calling me ''Master'' incessantly. It feels awkward. Here, continue practicing this innate technique." Zhongshan handed the booklet to Anhuang.


    "Innate technique?" Anhuang eximed in surprise as he took the booklet, which bore the three characters "Dark Assault Technique" on its cover.


    "I''ve also been practicing an innate technique now, different from yours though. This one is a top-notch innate technique, divided into ten levels. It can be cultivated to the Golden Core stage. Work hard in your cultivation. When you reach the Golden Core stage in the future, I''ll find another one for you," Zhongshan said earnestly.


    "Yes, I will practice diligently and also train the best assassins for Master," Anhuang replied respectfully.


    "By the way, there''s a portrait in the Dark Assault Technique depicting an innate master. Search everywhere for this person. Whether alive or dead, just inform me when you find them," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Yes, I will spare no effort in finding this person," Anhuang bowed.


    "Alright, I''ll leave you to your tasks. I''ll be on my way." Zhongshan then slowly walked out of sight, transforming into a shadow and swiftly retracing his steps.


    As Anhuang looked at the Dark Assault Technique in his hand, he sighed inwardly. Then, his gaze shifted to the ce where Zhongshan had disappeared, determination gleaming in his eyes.


    As for Zhongshan''s true self, the next day before dawn, he woke up and saw Tianlinger, who had stayed excitedly awake for most of the night. Zhongshan didn''t wake her up but instead packed up the hammock, took his big knife, and began practicing his swordsmanship not far away.


    "Splitting the Mountain with Force! ughtering All Enemies!"


    Practicing on arge rock, Zhongshan''s goal was to slice it open like tofu, relying on his intuition to find its weak points. It was something only Zhongshan would dare to imagine; even the creator of the sword technique didn''t have such a terrifying idea. Carving patterns on wood was one thing, but finding weak points on stone?


    After practicing for an hour, Zhongshan took a break and quickly sat down to meditate.


    At this moment, Tianlinger also woke up. Seeing Zhongshan diligently practicing, she felt ashamed. Tianlinger''s aptitude was the opposite of Zhongshan''s; her talent was so good that she didn''t need to work hard to progress faster than ordinary people.


    In this deste mountainous area, Zhongshan didn''t dare to indulge for long; he only summarized his insights from breaking the stones. Gently opening his eyes, he happened to see Tianlinger''s sparkling eyes, with the morning sun reflecting on her porcin-like face, making her appear like a radiant masterpiece.

 Chapter 23: Encountering the Cold Crow Again

    <h4>Chapter 23: Encountering the Cold Crow Again</h4>


    "Zhongshan, did you practice early in the morning?" Tianlinger called out as soon as she saw Zhongshan wake up, and she leaped from the hammock.


    "Bring out my bag and let''s have something to eat," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay," Tianlinger nodded and then took out Zhongshan''s bag.


    From inside, Zhongshan took out a small box and handed it to Tianlinger, while he himself took out some dried meat he had prepared earlier.


    Inside the small box were Tianlinger''s pastries, specifically her favorite osmanthus cakes.


    Grabbing a piece of osmanthus cake, Tianlinger happily ate it. After finishing it, she even licked the crumbs off her fingers, lookingpletely satisfied. Last time in the mountains, Zhongshan had made a little something for himself to taste, and Tianlinger happened to try it. Once she tasted it, she couldn''t stop.


    "It''s so delicious, Zhongshan. Are all ordinary people from the outside world as skilled as you? Can they make osmanthus cakes and hammocks like you?" Tianlinger asked while eating.


    Zhongshan smiled and shook his head without answering.


    "Oh, by the way, let''s do a direction test now since this is your first timeing out like this. I''ll ask you, where is the Kaiyang Sect?" Zhongshan looked at Tianlinger and asked.


    "That way," Tianlinger licked her index finger and, somewhat reluctantly, pointed in a direction with the finger she had just licked.


    After pointing, Tianlinger went back to grab some more osmanthus cakes.


    "Okay," Zhongshan nodded. Tianlinger''s sense of direction was indeed quite good.


    Zhongshan ate quickly, finishing his breakfast in no time. After seeing Tianlinger still eating osmanthus cakes, Zhongshan quickly packed up and got ready to hit the road.


    Once Tianlinger finished eating, Zhongshan was ready to go too.


    "Let''s go, hit the road," Zhongshan said, carrying his big knife ahead.


    "Okay," Tianlinger stepped on the red silk and flew up into the air.


    The two of them raced towards Zhongshan''s estate at a rapid pace.


    Along the way, they also killed some demon beasts, and Zhongshan collected their demon cores.


    On the thirteenth day, after killing a giant leopard demon beast at the top of a mountain peak, Zhongshan once again dug out its demon core.


    "Zhongshan, these demon cores are useless. Except for high-level demon beasts, these cores, even when made into pills, are not as good as some herbs that have been aged for three hundred years. Why do you still collect them?" Tianlinger asked.


    "Maybe they''ll be useful in the future," Zhongshan shook his head.


    For such mysterious things, even though he didn''t know how to use them, it was better to keep them than to discard them. Perhaps they would be useful in the future.


    After digging out the demon core and tidying up a bit, Zhongshan looked around.


    They were back in that cursed area again, where there was a gloomy spring and a demonic body tempering pool. It was where he had obtained the Night Pearl he had buried not far from the valley. Looking at Tianlinger, Zhongshan decided not to take it out for now. He would deal with itter.


    With one or two more days of travel, they wouldpletely enter his territory.


    "Let''s go, we''re almost out of the mountains," Zhongshan said.


    "Really? Are we about to enter the mortal realm?" Tianlinger eximed excitedly.


    "Be careful, there are Cold Crows here. Last time, I almost suffered a loss. Let''s make a concerted effort and run out of this area first," Zhongshan nodded solemnly as he reminded Tianlinger.


    "Okay," Tianlinger nodded.


    Then, the two of them dashed through the mountains again at a rapid pace. Zhongshan descended and ascended the mountains at the fastest speed, after all, he was only wearing his Wind Chasing Boots and couldn''t fly between the gorges like Tianlinger.


    "I''ll fly ahead first, catch up quickly," Tianlinger smiled and then flew horizontally on the red silk.


    Zhongshan hurried along, just reaching the foot of the mountain.


    "Wow~"


    "Wow~"


    Two wails of Cold Crows echoed, and Zhongshan quickly looked up. With a nce, he realized something was wrong.


    Because, on the mountain, Tianlinger was riding on the red silk, and at the other end of the silk, she swung it, knocking down two Cold Crows from the sky.


    "Wow~"


    "Wow~"


    ...


    ...


    On the mountain, more than a dozen Cold Crows flew over to Tianlinger from all directions. Each Cold Crow spewed cold air and continuously charged towards Tianlinger. Tianlinger swung the red silk, knocking down two at a time, and then another two.


    These Cold Crows were insignificant to Tianlinger, and she fought with them extremely happily. But at this moment, Zhongshan was sweating with fear.


    Because Zhongshan noticed that more and more Cold Crows were gathering around Tianlinger. Moreover, as the number of Cold Crows increased, their strength also increased. Even more formidable Cold Crows appeared one after another.


    Their cold breath was much stronger than before, and the Cold Crows in the air kept summoning theirpanions.


    Tianlinger, who had been quite happy before, suddenly became anxious because she also saw that there were more and more Cold Crows, and slowly, it seemed like she couldn''t handle them all. Moreover, there were even more Cold Crows flying in from the south.


    "Come to me!" Zhongshan shouted loudly at Tianlinger and dashed towards her.


    Tianlinger could fly, but the Cold Crows could fly even better. After killing so many Cold Crows, did they want to leave?


    "Wow~"


    "Wow~"


    ...


    Arge number of Cold Crows quickly rushed towards Tianlinger. How could they let her just leave? The cold air kept spewing out, making it seem like Tianlinger was being obstructed from descending the mountain.


    The Cold Crows weren''t powerful, as their cold air couldn''t harm Tianlinger. But unfortunately, there were too many of them, and they were getting more and more numerous.


    As a result, Tianlinger found it difficult to descend the mountain. She was surrounded by arge amount of cold air, making it seem like she was quickly turning into ice and snow.


    However, around Tianlinger, it was truly a world of ice and snow. Countless Cold Crows spewed cold air, freezing the path down the mountain.


    "Why are there so many?" Tianlinger said, her voice carrying a hint of panic, clearly encountering this situation for the first time.


    In a hurry, Tianlinger''s swing with the red silk became more and more chaotic, and arge amount of cold air rushed towards her.


    Gradually, Tianlinger was surrounded by countless Cold Crows, unable to see anything outside. She only felt that she was surrounded by Cold Crows on all sides, above, below, left, and right.


    "Wow~"


    "Wow~"


    ...


    As the Cold Crows continued to spew cold air and scream, Tianlinger became increasingly annoyed and agitated. Frost covered her entire body, and more and more cold air surged onto her, even causing a numbness in her feet. At that moment, Tianlinger suddenly felt like she was isted from the world, overwhelmed with helplessness and fear. Her eyes turned red, as if she was about to burst into tears at any moment.


    "Roar~"


    In her despair, Tianlinger suddenly heard Zhongshan''s angry roar. This roar acted like a tonic, causing Tianlinger''s whole body to tremble. The previous sense of helplessness seemed to vanish instantly, reced by excitement. Zhongshan, Zhongshan wasing to rescue her.


    With tears streaming down her face, Tianlinger turned her head towards the direction of Zhongshan''s voice. Zhongshan had managed to create an opening in the tightly sealed space enveloped by the Cold Crows.


    With his mighty de, Zhongshan swiftly slew three Cold Crows. His eyes were bloodshot, and his body was covered in frost, much like Tianlinger. Zhongshan had been practicing the Demonic Body Tempering Technique, which thickened his skin considerably. Even so, he seemed to struggle against the freezing cold.


    Seeing Tianlinger''s tearful and excited eyes upon seeing him, Zhongshan felt a sense of relief. Despite enduring the onught of cold air from the Cold Crows, it was all worth it.


    Tianlinger was already frozen in several ces by now. Zhongshan rushed forward and embraced Tianlinger, along with the red silk, holding her tightly in his arms as they faced the onught of cold air together.


    The path Zhongshan had opened earlier was now filled with new Cold Crows, turning the dilemma Tianlinger faced alone into a challenge they both had to confront.

 Chapter 24: Confusion

    <h4>Chapter 24: Confusion</h4>


    Zhongshan held Tianling''er tightly halfway up the mountain. Surrounding them, a multitude of ravens danced in the air, blocking every possible escape route. Arge de was wedged in a strap on Zhongshan''s back, and he clung tightly to Tianling''er, sheltering her in his embrace. "Hold on to me," Zhongshan said to Tianling''er. Zhongshan''s arrival couldn''t have been more timely, almost as if he had appeared out of nowhere just as Tianling''er was about to despair. At that moment, when Zhongshan appeared, Tianling''er felt as if his whole body was emitting a dazzling white light, as if he were a hero sent by the heavens to protect her. The tears in Tianling''er''s eyes had yet to dry, and Zhongshan''s embrace seemed to provide her with a strong sense of support.


    Upon Zhongshan''s words, Tianling''er instinctively wrapped her arms around Zhongshan''s neck. ncing at the chilling air swirling around them, Zhongshan leaped forward with all his might, breaking through the flock of ravens and descending rapidly down the mountainside. Despite the distance covered by Zhongshan''s leap, the mountain, still sloping, didn''t allow them topletely escape the ravens. However, as they descended, Zhongshan identally stepped on several ravens.


    Curling up his body, Zhongshan held Tianling''er tightly as they crashed through the ravens andnded on the slope below with a thud. As they emerged from the flock of ravens, Zhongshan wasted no time in sprinting away with Tianling''er in his arms, heading towards the valley at the fastest speed possible. However, the ravens showed no signs of relenting, swiftly pursuing them, filling the sky.


    Though their descent down the mountain was faster, once they reached the valley, their speed was no match for the multitude of ravens. ncing around, Zhongshan suddenly spotted the distant miasma zone. With Tianling''er still in his arms, Zhongshan made a resolute decision and dashed towards that direction at full speed.


    There was no time to put Tianling''er down because doing so would only lead to their capture by the ravens. Zhongshan sprinted with all his might towards the miasma zone, but the ravens behind them multiplied rapidly. Finally, after being assaulted by the chilling air several times, they reached the miasma zone, and Zhongshan plunged into it. True to Zhongshan''s expectations, the ravens dared not follow, as only those with cultivation levels close to the Golden Core stage could withstand the miasma. "Waaahhhhh..." "Waaahhhhh..."


    Outside, the ravens screeched angrily, but they dared not enter.


    Saved? Zhongshan was saved, but Tianling''er now faced the threat of the miasma. This miasma wasn''t something you could ignore; it could seep into your skin and poison you even if you held your breath.


    "Close your eyes, close your mouth, don''t breathe," Zhongshan suddenly instructed.


    Before Tianling''er could react, Zhongshan infused his qi with his mental power, creating a crimson mist that enveloped both of them, covering Tianling''er''s body but not entering her pores.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Tianling''er quickly closed her eyes and held her breath.


    Zhongshan sprinted through the miasma environment, the crimson mist previously enveloping only himself now covering both of them. They needed to cross the miasma area quickly before Zhongshan''s mental power depleted.


    As they ran, Tianling''er felt Zhongshan''s warmth and the chill within her dissipating. She nestled closer to Zhongshan''s chest, feeling a blush creeping onto her cheeks.


    No ravens, no sounds. Were they safe? "Are we safe?" Tianling''er asked softly with closed eyes.


    Damn it! Zhongshan realized his mistake in not reminding her to stay silent. In that instant, a thread of the crimson mist entered Tianling''er''s mouth.


    "Don''t speak," Zhongshan immediately said.


    As they ran frantically, there was no time to expel the crimson mist from Tianling''er''s body, or Zhongshan''s mental power might notst until they reached the other side of the miasma area.


    Tianling''er stopped speaking, but suddenly felt a warm sensation spreading throughout her body. It felt as if her clothes were ufortably hot, and she had an inexplicable urge to remove them.


    Why am I feeling like this? Tianling''er thought, but her body seemed to have a mind of its own, writhing ufortably in Zhongshan''s arms.


    Zhongshan continued to run, noticing Tianling''er''s strange behavior. He sighed inwardly, realizing that the arousal had kicked in faster than he expected.


    With a headache, Zhongshan increased his pace, rushing towards the edge of the miasma area as his mental power neared exhaustion.


    But Tianling''er''s behavior became increasingly erratic. Despite her desire to stop, her body seemed to act on its own, indulging in the sensations she felt.


    Gradually, Tianling''er became disoriented, clinging to Zhongshan and initiating intimate contact. Zhongshan felt a headacheing on; he couldn''t believe he was being toyed with by this young girl. Thankfully, they were about to leave the miasma area.


    With a few quick steps, Zhongshan finally burst out of the area, but Tianling''er, now overwhelmed by the sensations, had be uncontroble. Zhongshan used thest of his mental power to expel the crimson mist from her body.


    After a moment, the crimson mist was finally removed from Tianling''er''s body, but she was left flushed and exhausted, copsing into a deep sleep.


    Taking a deep breath to calm himself, Zhongshan arranged Tianling''er''s clothes and gently ced her in a clean spot before closing his eyes to recover. Despite the danger they had faced, he couldn''t help but feel a surge of power within him, a sign of potential breakthrough.


    As he waited for Tianling''er to wake up, Zhongshan sat by her side. When she finally stirred and opened her eyes, she immediately closed them again, memories flooding back.


    How could this happen? How could I do such a thing? Tianling''er''s face flushed with embarrassment as she struggled with her thoughts. How am I going to face Zhongshanter?


    "Awake?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yeah," Tianling''er replied softly, opening her eyes but pretending as if nothing had happened. However, her flushed cheeks betrayed her.


    "Awake. Eat something, and then I''ll hit the road," Zhongshan said, avoiding any mention of their previous encounter.


    Relieved that Zhongshan didn''t bring up the incident, Tianling''er nodded.


    She ate some osmanthus cakes and watched Zhongshan practice his swordsmanship. Seeing Zhongshan seemingly oblivious to what had happened, Tianling''er felt confused. Was it all just her imagination? Did nothing happen at all?


    Yes, it must have been her imagination. How could she possibly have done such a thing? Tianling''er''s spirits lifted once again.


    But as she watched Zhongshan''s figure practicing his swordsmanship, Tianling''er couldn''t shake the feeling: that sensation felt so real!

 Chapter 25: The Undying Sword

    <h4>Chapter 25: The Undying Sword</h4>


    Due to his weakened state, Zhong Shan''s pace was slower than usual. It took two days before he finally emerged from the mountains and arrived near his manor.


    "Zhong Shan, do you really have a house here?" Tian Ling''er asked from above, standing on her red silk ribbon.


    Tian Ling''er had returned to her lively and adorable self, as if the events of that fateful day werepletely forgotten.


    "Yes, we''re here. Once we arrive, we can clean up and rest for a day before continuing our journey. But for now,e down," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Why?" Tian Ling''er asked, puzzled.


    "We''re about to enter the mortal world. Do you want to be stared at by countless people every day? Even if they don''t stare, they will be scared and avoid you. If you want to blend in with mortals, you shouldn''t show your powers," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Oh," Tian Ling''er replied, descending to the ground and storing her red silk ribbon in her storage bracelet.


    She followed Zhong Shan, hopping and skipping towards a nearby manor.


    Xiaoyao Manor!


    At the front of the manor, fourrge characters were carved into a big stone. As Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er approached, a man who looked like a steward ran up to them.


    "Master," the steward greeted.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Zhong Shan looked somewhat different from a year ago, appearing only in his thirties by mortal standards. The steward recognized him instantly because Zhong Shan had sent a copy of his appearance ahead of time for reference.


    Tian Ling''er, however, was too busy looking around curiously to notice any of this.


    Upon entering Xiaoyao Manor, they found a guest room where maids had already prepared hot water for Tian Ling''er to bathe and change clothes.


    Zhong Shan took his bundle from Tian Ling''er and walked into his main room.


    Inside the main room, his doppelg?nger was sitting and waiting. When Zhong Shan opened the door, the doppelg?nger stood up simultaneously. Being essentially the same person, the doppelg?nger functioned like a magical artifact, capable of syncing thoughts with Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan took out the Empty Spirit Pearl from his bundle and handed it to the doppelg?nger.


    Following the prescribed method, the doppelg?nger quickly controlled the Empty Spirit Pearl, forming it into a long sword mold about one meter and sixty centimeters long. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan opened a nearby cab.


    Inside was a broken de, the legacy de that contained the Hongluan Heavenly Scripture, which the doppelg?nger had retrieved.


    Now it was split in two: one half was given to the doppelg?nger to be integrated into the long sword, while the other half was merged into Zhong Shan''s own broadsword, ''Nightmare.''


    "The knife is named for vengeance, the sword for immortality. From today on, this sword shall be called ''Undying,''" Zhong Shan said, looking at the long sword in his doppelg?nger''s hand, and gave it a new name.


    The Undying Sword! The Nightmare de!


    After the exchange wasplete, the doppelg?nger left a thick stack of silver notes and then departed by train.


    On a long road, Zhong Shan rode a chestnut-colored horse, the Nightmare de strapped to his back, galloping swiftly. Tian Ling''er flew beside him on her red silk ribbon.


    "Zhong Shan, where are we now?" Tian Ling''er asked, sounding a bit bored.


    "We''re in the mortal realm, the Song Dynasty," Zhong Shan replied.


    The Song Dynasty was not far from the Kun Dynasty, and they were now within its borders. Zhong Shan continued to ride his horse, pressing forward.


    "Will following this road take us to the next city?" Tian Ling''er asked.


    "Exactly, we''ll be there soon. Two days ago, I received information about arge number of sect disciples appearing within the Song Dynasty. I suspect it might be rted to Hao San''s whereabouts. We should go and check it out immediately," Zhong Shan said.


    "Was it that pigeon that flew in the other day? How did it know you were back?" Tian Ling''er asked curiously.


    "It didn''t know I was back. I had made arrangements before. Messages are sent periodically from all directions to Xiaoyao Manor via carrier pigeons," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Oh," Tian Ling''er nodded, understanding.


    As the two traveled swiftly, they would find a waystation to rest each night. Two dayster, they saw a city in the distance.


    Tian Ling''er immediately flew down, and Zhong Shan dismounted, leading the horse towards the distant city. Tian Ling''er disliked riding the horse,ining that it was too bumpy and made her backside sore. Thus, Zhong Shan walked with her towards the city gate.


    Bian City!


    The tworge stone-carved characters above the gate spelled out "Bian City."


    "Bian City?" Tian Ling''er read aloud.


    They led the horse towards the gate. Zhong Shan didn''t pay any attention to the guards, casually tossing a silver ingot towards the gate captain.


    "Smack!"


    The captain caught it, but the force made him stagger backward slightly, his right hand numb from the impact. He steadied himself without moving further, but his hand remained tingling.


    The captain stood straight, not daring to search them further. Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er strode into the city unimpeded.


    "Captain, that guy''s really generous. Should we stop him and get more out of him?" a young guard asked eagerly.


    The captain red at him. "Shut up! Do you want to die?" he hissed.


    The captain had seen Zhong Shan''s casual toss. Though it seemed light, it carried hidden force that numbed his hand. That man was at least at the eighth level of postnatal strength. Even if he didn''t have a powerful background, he was a formidable expert. Confronting him? It was suicidal.


    Tian Ling''er skipped along, her eyes darting everywhere, taking in the bustling scene. She had never seen so many people before, having spent most of her time in the sect.


    The street was lined with numerous stalls, each disying a variety of strange and curious items that immediately caught Tian Ling''er''s eye.


    "You, I want this one," Tian Ling''er said, pointing to a ghost-face mask.


    She handed over a silver ingot and took the mask, joyfully putting it on without waiting for change. The vendor, seeing such a generous customer, broke into a wide grin��the ingot could buy his entire stall ten times over.


    "Zhong Shan, look, isn''t this fun?" Tian Ling''er asked, making a ghost face at Zhong Shan with the mask on.


    Zhong Shan shook his head at her antics. If she wanted to y, let her y. Such small amounts of money were nothing to him.


    As they walked, Tian Ling''er bought whatever caught her fancy.


    "Is this called tanghulu? Edible? I want it. Here," Tian Ling''er said excitedly, handing over another silver ingot for a skewer of candied fruits, taking a bite before running back to Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, I''ve spent ny ingots of the hundred you gave me," Tian Ling''er said, a little dismayed, as she bit into her tanghulu.


    Zhong Shan had just sold his chestnut horse for fifty ingots of silver. Hearing Tian Ling''er, he turned and smiled.


    "Ny ingots, just like that?"


    "Here, this is for you. Spend it wisely. And remember, the silver notes can also be used for purchases. One note is equivalent to a thousand ingots," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head with a smile.


    Ny ingots could buy a small courtyard in the city, yet Tian Ling''er had spent it all on tanghulu, masks, and other trinkets?


    "Don''t worry, I''ll be more careful with my spending this time," Tian Ling''er said, patting her chest with determination.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    With the horse sold, Zhong Shan looked around for a restaurant to get some food. He spotted arge establishment in the distance.


    "Let''s go get something to eat," Zhong Shan said, looking at the restaurant.


    "Okay," Tian Ling''er agreed, pocketing the fifty ingots without anyone noticing.


    As they approached, Zhong Shan realized it wasn''t just a restaurant.


    Golden Brick Pavilion!


    Zhong Shan recognized it as a gambling house. Generally, suchrge establishments also offered food and drink. Since they were already there, Zhong Shan decided not to look elsewhere. As long as there was food, it would do.


    Upon entering, a greeter immediately approached them respectfully.


    "What service do you require, honored guests?"


    "Take us to eat," Zhong Shan said lightly, flipping a silver ingot as a tip.


    "Right this way, please. We have private rooms and a main hall on the second floor, serving the finest cuisine," the greeter said eagerly.


    Zhong Shan nodded, leading Tian Ling''er inside.


    The interior was filled with the loud buzz of chatter. Tian Ling''er''s eyes widened as she looked at the groups of people crowded around various tables, their faces flushed with excitement.


    "Zhong Shan, what are they doing?" Tian Ling''er asked, pointing at the animated crowd.


    "They''re gambling," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Gambling?" Tian Ling''er''s eyes sparkled with curiosity, clearly intrigued by something new.


    "Let''s eat first. I''ll show you afterward," Zhong Shan said.


    "Okay," Tian Ling''er agreed, suppressing her curiosity as she followed Zhong Shan to the second floor.


    They chose a table on the terrace, where they could eat and still observe the gambling hall below.

 Chapter 26: Zhao Suoxiang

    <h4>Chapter 26: Zhao Suoxiang</h4>


    Zhong Shan ordered the finest dishes without even ncing at the menu. The attendant, realizing the status of his guests, eagerly took note and hurried to fulfill the order.


    In no time, the food and drinks were served. Tian Ling''er took a few bites before her attention drifted back to the gambling floor below. Every shout from the gamblers seemed to tell her they were having an immensely fun time.


    Zhong Shan, noticing her distracted state, chuckled to himself. Everyone''s first time at a casino was like this, unaware of the dangers it posed.


    "Hurry up and eat!" Tian Ling''er urged, her curiosity barely contained.


    Just as Zhong Shan was about to respond, he frowned and nced towards a nearby table. He had sensed that someone had been watching him intently.


    Watching him?


    At the other table, the food and drinks were as luxurious as theirs. Seated there was a man in a white robe, around thirty years old, with a strong and heroic demeanor. On the table in front of himy a long silver spear.


    A magical weapon?


    Zhong Shan immediately recognized it��this magical artifact was crafted from the Ethereal Pearl.


    The man, holding a cup of wine, nced at Zhong Shan with a slight frown. Suddenly, he spoke uncertainly, "Zhong Shan?"


    He addressed Zhong Shan by name? Yet, Zhong Shan now appeared to be in his thirties. Even his adopted sons wouldn''t have recognized him just a year ago.


    Zhong Shan regarded the man solemnly, a thought shing through his mind.


    Fifty-one years ago.


    Zhong Shan had endured countless hardships and finally reached the gate of an immortal sect, begging to be taken in as a disciple. He had knelt there for three days and nights, but no one was willing to ept him.


    At that time, it was the once-in-fifty-years Longmen Conference.


    People from the sect continuously returned with new disciples, but they all treated Zhong Shan with disdain.


    The man before him now, dressed in white robes, had been chosen at the Longmen Conference and was returning with his master. He had noticed Zhong Shan kneeling at the gate.


    "Master, has he been kneeling here for three days and nights?" the man had asked.


    "This person named Zhong Shan has poor aptitude and will achieve nothing in his lifetime," the master had replied.


    "But he has remarkable perseverance. Master, since he has knelt for three days, why not ept him as a disciple and see how he fares?" the white-robed man had suggested.


    "Silence, Zhao Suoxiang! This is an immortal sect, not your mortal battlefield. Perseverance alone is not enough," the master had scolded.


    "Yes," Zhao Suoxiang had nodded, sighed, and followed his master into the sect.


    That day, Zhong Shan had never forgotten. Of all the immortal sects he visited, only this man had once tried to help him, though unsessfully.


    "Zhao Suoxiang?" Zhong Shan rose immediately, looking at him.


    "Haha, it is you, Zhong Shan," Zhao Suoxiang eximed, grabbing a spear and walking over. He sat down directly beside Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, who is he?" Tian Linger asked.


    "Tieqiang Sect, Zhao Suoxiang," Zhao Suoxiang introduced himself to Tian Linger.


    "Kaixuan Sect, Tian Linger," Tian Linger replied. Both followed the etiquette of introducing their sects.


    "Kaixuan Sect?" Zhao Suoxiang looked at Zhong Shan with surprise. He couldn''t understand how Zhong Shan, who couldn''t even enter a lower-tier sect in the past, was now a disciple of the prestigious Kaixuan Sect.


    "Congrattions, Zhong Shan," Zhao Suoxiang congratted sincerely.


    "Thank you, and same to you," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Tian Linger, you continue eating; I''ll go downstairs for a bit," Tian Linger said to Zhong Shan, unable to contain her excitement, and rushed down the stairs.


    Watching her leave, Zhong Shan shook his head with a smile, letting her go while he remained upstairs, feeling assured she would be fine.


    "Brother Zhao, what brings you here?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I am a general of the Song Kingdom. Fifty-one years ago, I had the fortune to join an immortal sect. Now, I am out training and happened to pass by this city. Encountering some matters, I decided to stay. Today, I came out for a stroll and unexpectedly met you here," Zhao Suoxiangughed heartily.


    "Indeed, it is unexpected. I still remember the day you spoke on my behalf at Tieqiang Sect. Although I didn''t join the sect, I have never forgotten your kindness," Zhong Shan said earnestly.


    Zhong Shan was a man who remembered both gratitude and grudges. Although Zhao Suoxiang''s effort had not seeded, Zhong Shan had always appreciated his intention.


    "Haha, it didn''t work out, so there''s no need for thanks. Besides, if it had, you might not have had the chance to join Kaixuan Sect," Zhao Suoxiangughed.


    "Let''s dispense with formalities. Call me Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Alright, you can call me Suoxiang, or Zhao Suoxiang," Zhao Suoxiang replied.


    "Suoxiang, please," Zhong Shan said, raising his cup in a toast.


    Zhao Suoxiang lifted his cup, and the two drank heartily.


    "This time, your Kaixuan Sect''s training mission, is it rted to that person called Hao San?" Zhao Suoxiang suddenly asked.


    Hearing Zhao Suoxiang''s words, Zhong Shan frowned. It seemed that everyone was searching for Hao San. He had thought only Kaixuan Sect was involved, but now he realized it was not the case.


    "Yes. Who is this Hao San?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "I''m not sure. But I heard my master mention that all sects became aware of Hao San that day. They are all searching for him, dead or alive, offering substantial rewards. It seems that now, anyone who practices cultivation knows of him," Zhao Suoxiang shook his head.


    As the two continued their conversation.


    Downstairs, a ck-robed man with a sword on his back entered the hall, led respectfully by several guides.


    The greeter at the door initially wanted to step forward but froze upon seeing the guides. One of them was the owner of this Golden Brick Building, a person usually domineering. Today, he was being obsequious to the ck-robed man.


    "Where is Zhao Suoxiang?" the ck-robed man asked coolly.


    "On the second floor, having a meal," the owner immediately replied.


    "Alright." The ck-robed man nodded and began to follow the owner upstairs.


    Halfway up the stairs, the ck-robed man suddenly frowned, ncing at a gambling table in the hall.


    Surrounded by onlookers, a young woman in red was engaged in heavy gambling. She was strikingly beautiful, with skin smooth as porcin. In front of her was a pile of silver notes and ingots, and she was cingrge bets against her opponent.


    The pile of silver notes alone numbered at least a hundred, each worth a thousand taels, totaling a hundred thousand taels. A massive sum.


    Yet, the young woman kept losing, growing more frantic with each loss.


    However, she had plenty of money. When she ced that pile of notes on the table, everyone else stopped gambling, watching greedily as the croupier won note after note.


    "Gentlewoman, will you bet small again?" the croupier asked.


    "Yes, small again," Tian Linger, flushed with frustration, threw another note on the table.


    "Bet ced. No more bets. Four, five, six, fifteenrge," the croupier announced, revealing the dice.


    "No! I want to see the dice," Tian Linger demanded, examining them closely. Each face was different. Why was it alwaysrge?


    "Again," Tian Linger, unwilling to give up, threw another note on the table.


    On the stairs, the ck-robed man''s eyes gleamed��not because of the money, but the bracelet on Tian Linger''s wrist.


    A storage bracelet?


    Seeing it, he whispered something to the owner beside him.


    "Yes, Young Master Tang, leave it to me," the owner replied excitedly.


    "Good." The ck-robed man nodded, following the owner back downstairs.


    Two incense stickster, Zhong Shan and Zhao Suoxiang were deep in conversation upstairs. Zhong Shan felt that Zhao Suoxiang was a trustworthy person, someone who valued loyalty and promises, making their discussion enjoyable.


    Downstairs, Tian Linger was in a panic. Zhong Shan had given her a hundred thousand taels of silver. Though he hadn''t told her its significance, she knew she was losing a lot. She wanted to win it back, but each loss only made her more desperate. Why was she so unlucky?


    In her distress, Tian Linger noticed the expressions of those around her��pity, regret, and mockery.


    Though naive, Tian Linger was not stupid. She realized something was amiss. They were cheating her, but how? She couldn''t catch them in the act.


    With only two silver notes left, two thousand taels, while her opponent had ny-eight thousand taels, she was at her wit''s end.


    "Gentlewoman, will you continue?" the owner asked, smiling. Beside him stood the croupier and the ck-robed man.


    Tian Linger looked at the group as if they were all viins, tricking her out of her money. But she couldn''t figure out how. What should she do? The money Zhong Shan gave her was almost gone.


    Desperately, she considered the owner''s suggestion about using valuable items as coteral. Her storage bracelet contained some treasures, but would they recognize their value?


    "Yes, if you have something valuable, like your bracelet, it can serve as coteral," the owner proposed.


    "Coteral?" Tian Linger hesitated. She did have some good items in her bracelet, but would they know their worth?


    "Indeed. I also have an Ethereal Pearl, along with these ny-eight thousand taels. If you have something valuable, we can have one more round," the ck-robed man offered.


    His words indicated to Tian Linger that he, too, was from an immortal sect and could recognize valuable items.


    Looking at the pile of silver notes, Tian Linger bit her lip. She didn''t care much for the Ethereal Pearl, but those notes mattered. Though Zhong Shan had told her to spend freely, she didn''t want to lose them so easily.


    Should she gamble? She had won a few times before. Perhaps next time, she could win.


    Tian Linger struggled internally, anxious about losing her treasures but also wanting to reim the silver notes.

 Chapter 27: The Decisive Word in the Martial World

    <h4>Chapter 27: The Decisive Word in the Martial World</h4>


    "Zhong Shan," Tian Linger eximed joyfully.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s voice was like receiving a shot of courage. Ever since the Cold Crow incident, Tian Linger had developed immense trust in Zhong Shan, as if there was nothing he couldn''t handle.


    The crowd parted to let Zhong Shan pass. He carried arge saber on his back, apanied by a white-robed man wielding a long spear.


    "Tan Xiaoyou?" Zhao Suoxiang looked at the ck-robed man with the sword on his back, frowning.


    "Senior Brother Zhao," the ck-robed man greeted Zhao Suoxiang, though his tonecked respect.


    "Is he your junior brother?" Zhong Shan asked Zhao Suoxiang, frowning.


    "No, he''s a disciple of the Ming Sword Pavilion. Their sect is close to our Iron Spear Sect, and we often interact," Zhao Suoxiang exined.


    Zhong Shan nodded. "As long as he''s not your junior brother."


    "Zhong Shan, you finally came. He won all my money," Tian Linger said angrily.


    Tan Xiaoyou, the ck-robed man, whispered a few words to the Golden Brick Building''s owner.


    "Everyone, our Golden Brick Building is closed for today. Pleasee back tomorrow," the owner announced, clearing the ce.


    "What? Why close now? We haven''t seen enough!" the patronsined, but they were quickly ushered out.


    Only the Golden Brick Building''s owner, the croupier, Tan Xiaoyou, Tian Linger, Zhong Shan, and Zhao Suoxiang remained.


    "Since he is Senior Brother Zhao''s friend, let''s just drop it," Tan Xiaoyou said with a smile.


    "How can we drop it? Once you''re at the gambling table, there''s no such thing as just dropping it. You wanted to gamble, so I''ll gamble with you," Zhong Shan insisted, unwilling to let the matter go. He was also trying to console Tian Linger, who looked on the verge of tears.


    Shaking his head, Zhong Shan sat down at the gambling table.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Tan Xiaoyou frowned, a trace of mockery in his eyes.


    "Fine. Since you want to gamble, let''s continue. However, I am betting an Ethereal Pearl. What will you wager?" Tan Xiaoyou asked.


    Tian Linger, eager to support Zhong Shan, immediately thought of taking out a treasure she had hesitated to use before.


    "Take out my small wooden box," Zhong Shan instructed Tian Linger.


    "Huh?" Tian Linger frowned but nodded. She flipped her hand, and a small red wooden box appeared.


    Seeing the wooden box appear out of thin air, the dealer and the Golden Brick Building owner widened their eyes in disbelief. Immortal techniques? Immortal techniques?


    "Zhong Shan, what is this?" Tian Linger asked curiously.


    Zhong Shan gently opened the small wooden box, revealing a bottle of elixirs, containing only one pill inside.


    "A Rejuvenation Pill. Should be a worthy bet, right?" Zhong Shan smiled at Tang Xiaoyou, a glint of light shing in his eyes.


    "A third-grade pill?" Zhao Suoxiang frowned.


    Tian Linger also looked skeptical. How could Zhong Shan have a third-grade pill? Where did ite from? It was too incredible. Was it real?


    Tian Linger quickly took the bottle and lightly opened it. As soon as she did, a fragrant scent filled the room, giving everyone a feeling of rxed pores and immensefort.


    "It is a Rejuvenation Pill," Zhao Suoxiang confirmed.


    "And yours?" Zhong Shan smiled, his eyes filled with mischief.


    "The Ethereal Pearl," Tang Xiaoyou ced an Ethereal Pearl on the table.


    "Alright, dealer, you may start," Tang Xiaoyou said, signaling the dealer to proceed.


    "Wait," Zhong Shan suddenly called out, stopping the dealer in his tracks.


    Zhong Shan gently opened the small wooden bucket, picking up a die. The dealer and the owner of the Golden Brick Building appeared nervous.


    "Weighted dice? Change them," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Weighted?" Tian Linger eximed in surprise. She then picked up a die, and with a squeeze, ''crack,'' the internal lead piece became visible. Seeing the position of the lead piece, Tian Linger immediately realized why she kept losing before.


    "Cheaters!" Tian Linger yelled angrily, flipping her hand to draw out her red silk, ready to wreck the casino.


    "Stop," Zhong Shanmanded Tian Linger.


    "They cheated me, they took my silver notes," Tian Linger protested.


    "Silver notes are just paper," Zhong Shan frowned.


    Yes, to Zhong Shan, what were silver notes? They were like toilet paper, and even too hard for that use. What were silver notespared to the Ethereal Pearl?


    "But... but..." Tian Linger stammered.


    "It''s alright, I''ll win them back," Zhong Shan reassured her.


    "Alright, but you have to win," Tian Linger urged.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Tang Xiaoyou frowned at Zhong Shan, while the casino owner dared not ck off and quickly brought out three new dice. This time, the owner dared not y any tricks.


    "Alright, you can inspect them," Tang Xiaoyou said.


    Zhong Shan trusted that after the previous incident, the casino owner wouldn''t dare cheat again, but he still insisted, "Inspecting the dice is a must. I not only want to inspect the dice but also the dice cup."


    "Be my guest," Tang Xiaoyou sneered.


    Zhong Shan picked up the dice, gently weighing them and feeling each edge. After carefully inspecting the dice and ensuring they were fine, he then examined the dice cup, shook it a few times himself to ensure there were no issues.


    "Since the dice are fine, let''s have someone unrted roll the dice. How about that?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Unrted?" Tang Xiaoyou frowned.


    "I''ll do it. I haven''t yed much, so I shouldn''t be able to cheat," Zhao Suoxiang offered.


    "Alright," Tang Xiaoyou nodded.


    "Fine," Zhong Shan agreed.


    The dealer and owner stepped aside, and Zhao Suoxiang ced his spear aside, picked up the dice cup, and gently shook it.


    The dice rattled inside, and finally, Zhao Suoxiang ced the cup on the table. The dice rolled a bit more inside beforeing to a stop.


    "Alright, let''s begin," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "I bet on big," Tang Xiaoyou dered.


    "I bet on big too," Zhong Shan suddenly smiled.


    "You bet on big too? Then how do we decide?" Tang Xiaoyou red.


    "How about we guess the exact points and see who''s right?" Zhong Shan suggested with a meaningful smile.


    "Guess the points? How could you guess that?" Tang Xiaoyou retorted.


    "What if I guess right?" Zhong Shan smiled faintly.


    "If you guess right, you win. If you guess wrong..." Tang Xiaoyou sneered at Zhong Shan.


    "If I guess wrong? Naturally, you win," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Deal," Tang Xiaoyou immediately agreed. It would be foolish not to. Guess the exact points? Ridiculous, with so many possibilities, how could he guess right?


    "Alright," Zhong Shan said.


    At this moment, Tian Linger grabbed Zhong Shan''s sleeve nervously. Guess? How could he guess right? She had never guessed right before.


    "Four-four-six, fourteen points, big," Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    After Zhong Shan spoke, Zhao Suoxiang, filled with doubt, slowly opened the dice cup.


    Everyone watched tensely, waiting for the result. Tian Linger''s light grip on Zhong Shan''s sleeve tightened, almost tearing it off.


    "Four-four-six, fourteen points, big."


    At that moment, everyone was stunned. Fourteen points, it really was fourteen points.


    "We won! We won!" Tian Linger shouted excitedly, jumping up and down while holding Zhong Shan''s sleeve, her face flushed with excitement. They had won back everything.


    "Zhong Shan, you''re amazing," Zhao Suoxiang said in disbelief, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Just luck," Zhong Shan shook his head. But at that moment, nobody believed him.


    After the initial excitement, Tian Linger quickly swept all the stakes off the table.


    Watching Tian Linger take the Ethereal Pearl, Tang Xiaoyou felt a pang of pain and looked at Zhong Shan with a face full of resentment.


    "Zhong Shan, the weather is turning cloudy, and it looks like it''s going to rain heavily. Let''s find a ce to stay. Why don''t youe to where I''m staying, and we can catch up?" Zhao Suoxiang suggested.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Hearing Zhao Suoxiang''s suggestion, Tang Xiaoyou''s brow furrowed, his eyes shing as if he had thought of something.


    "Linger, those dice that helped us win so much are lucky dice. Take them with us; we might need their luck again," Zhong Shan said as they were leaving.


    "Mm," Tian Linger quickly grabbed the three dice and followed Zhong Shan and Zhao Suoxiang, hopping along.


    "Zhong Shan, you were really amazing just now. How did you guess?" Zhao Suoxiang asked as they walked ahead.


    "A decisive word in the martial world loses its power when exined," Zhong Shan smiled but didn''t answer.


    Tian Linger, holding the ''lucky dice'' at the back, frowned in thought. She suddenly realized that each of the dice''s eight edges seemed different, as if they had been subtly manipted. Could dice really be like that?


    Of course, what Tian Linger couldn''t realize was that Zhong Shan had intentionally tampered with the dice during his inspection. By using the dice cup to test them, he was listening for the differences in sound that each altered edge made.


    Zhong Shan, an eighty-something-year-old man, had long be astute and cunning. Mastery of gambling techniques was second nature to him. By differentiating the dice by their unique sounds, he could determine the result. After all, Zhong Shan owned a casino himself, one far more sophisticated than this Golden Brick Building, with research that these people couldn''tpare to.

 Chapter 28: Encountering Zhong Di Again

    <h4>Chapter 28: Encountering Zhong Di Again</h4>


    "Did you say you caught a demon wolf?" Zhong Shan and Zhao Suoxiang chatted as they walked along the path, suddenly discussing what Zhao Suoxiang had just mentioned.


    "Yes, it was a young wolf, but its fur was exceptionally pure, and at night, it emitted a faint silver glow all over its body," Zhao Suoxiang replied directly.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "A glowing demon wolf?" Tian Ling''er immediately approached, curious.


    "Yes, the breed of this demon wolf is definitely extraordinary, and it certainly belongs to a higher level of demon wolf. With such a high-grade breed, its blood or the potential future production of its inner elixir could be extraordinary," Zhao Suoxiang furrowed his brows.


    "Yeah,st time, Sister Qing Si caught a fox, and she used the blood drawn from the fox to refine a third-grade pill," Tian Ling''er exined to Zhong Shan.


    "Well, congrattions to you then," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Ah, unfortunately, it wasn''t just me who discovered it. It was found by four others together. Tang Xiaoyou was one of them. So, the fate of this demon wolf is still uncertain," Zhao Suoxiang shook his head.


    "Oh? Discovered by others as well?" Zhong Shan furrowed his brows.


    "Yes, that day in a canyon, we happened to meet unexpectedly. Since we all saw it by the side of a smallke, it naturally counts as a collective discovery by our group of five. As for how to divide it, we need to wait for our seniors from both our sects to assess the value of the demon wolf and decide whether to exchange it for something or directly divide its body," Zhao Suoxiang exined.


    Listening to Zhao Suoxiang, Zhong Shan could also guess the preciousness of this demon wolf. ording to Zhao Suoxiang''s words, this demon wolf was worth at least a third-grade pill, or maybe even higher, a fourth-grade pill? Naturally, no one would hastily determine its value.


    "Where is this demon wolf?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s ced in a separate courtyard of the Tang family here. That''s also where I''m staying now," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "The Tang family? One of the three great millennium families of the Great Song Dynasty, the territory of Tang Xiaoyou from earlier?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, the Tang family has great influence here. Although my Zhao family is not a millennium family, we also have considerable mundane power here. The ce is provided by the Tang family, but both my Zhao family and the Tang family have people guarding it, so nothing should happen," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "Didn''t you say four people saw it? Tang Xiaoyou and three others, from your Iron Spear Sect?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The other three are all Tang Xiaoyou''s senior brothers, members of the Bright Sword Pavilion," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes. It seemed that Zhao Suoxiang was at a disadvantage.


    As if sensing Zhong Shan''s concern, Zhao Suoxiang said, "Of the four from the Bright Sword Pavilion, only two entered the immortal gate at the same time as me fifty-one years ago. Tang Xiaoyou and another entered just a year ago. They''re not much of a concern."


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Before long, they arrived at arge mansion, which was the separate courtyard Zhao Suoxiang had mentioned.


    Several martial guards stood at the entrance. Following Zhao Suoxiang inside, Zhong Shan noticed archers stationed in concealed spots around the courtyard, taking turns on watch. It truly reflected the thorough consideration of a prestigious family.


    Slowly, the three walked through some corridors and arrived at a courtyard within.


    At the center of the courtyard, there was arge tform with a huge ss box on it. Inside the boxy a silver-white wolf pup about a foot long.


    The pup was snowy white all over, its fur exceptionally pure, but it seemed devoid of strength, lying limp there. Its eyes showed intense fear, its body trembling slightly, as if it knew its future would be incredibly difficult.


    "This is the high-grade demon wolf. Without cultivation, it already possesses a higher bloodline than ordinary demon wolves. If cultivated, its progress would undoubtedly be rapid. Give it some Soft Bone Powder, and it won''t be able to escape," Zhao Suoxiang pointed to the pup.


    Tian Ling''er immediately went over to take a look.


    "Why is it ced here?" Zhong Shan frowned as he nced at the wolf pup in the ss box.


    "There are guards from both our families all around. This makes it convenient for supervision," Zhao Suoxiang exined.


    Upon hearing Zhao Suoxiang''s exnation, Zhong Shan understood the reason. This arrangement not only prevented theft from outsiders but also guarded against the four members of the Bright Sword Pavilion.


    "Poor little wolf, it''s so tiny. If I had seen it earlier, I would never have caught it for alchemy," Tian Ling''er immediately expressed her pity.


    "Oh? What do you n to do with it?" Zhong Shan walked over and asked with a smile.


    "Of course, release it. It''s so small!" Tian Ling''er immediately replied seriously.


    Just as Tian Ling''er finished speaking, a mocking voice suddenly came from a nearby room.


    "Release it? A fourth-grade pill, and you want to release it?"


    Turning towards the voice, two figures slowly emerged from the room. Both were sword-bearing men like Tang Xiaoyou, and aftering out, they headed towards Zhong Shan.


    "Wang Brother," Zhao Suoxiang addressed the person in front. Obviously, this person was the one who had entered the immortal gate fifty-one years ago, and his strength shouldn''t be much different from Zhao Suoxiang''s.


    Zhao Suoxiang ignored the other person, but Zhong Shan focused on the second person.


    Seeing that person, Zhong Shan''s eyes widened with a strong anger, then he took a deep breath, suppressing the anger in his heart. At least, he didn''t show it on his face.


    Zhong Di, his adopted son, whom he had taken to the Dragon Gate Conference, chosen by the immortal gate, but eventually turned his back on Zhong Shan. Even when Zhong Tian, Zhong Shan''s eldest son, scolded him in anger, Zhong Di instigated their master to warn Zhong Tian.


    The Bright Sword Pavilion, as it turned out, had epted Zhong Di.


    Looking at Zhong Di, Zhong Shan forcibly suppressed his anger, giving a faint cold smile.


    As Zhong Di approached and saw Zhong Shan, his whole body suddenly stiffened. Zhong Shan was now in his thirties, and when he adopted Zhong Di, his appearance was just like this. Therefore, Zhong Di could still recognize him at a nce. But Zhong Di couldn''t believe that this was his former foster father Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Di?" Zhong Shan said with a cold smile.


    As Zhong Shan called out, it seemed to pour cold water on Zhong Di. It was him, his foster father, Zhong Shan. How could this be? How could he be so young? Had he also entered the immortal gate? Had he also entered the immortal gate?


    Zhong Di''s forehead broke out in a cold sweat, but he immediately said, "F-f-foster, Foster, Foster, Zhong Shan."


    He didn''t call out ''foster father'', but instead used Zhong Shan''s name. After calling out, Zhong Di''s tense mood seemed to ease a lot. Yes, what was he afraid of? He was also cultivating immortality, and his aptitude was so good.


    "He also surnames Zhong and recognizes him? Are they friends?" Tian Ling''er immediately asked curiously.


    Zhao Suoxiang and the other man also noticed the unusualness between Zhong Shan and Zhong Di, and they looked at the two with puzzled eyes.


    "Acquaintances, but not friends," Zhong Shan said to Tian Ling''er.


    "Oh," Tian Ling''er nodded immediately, no longer asking more questions. If they weren''t friends, could they be enemies? Although Tian Ling''er usually didn''t have any scheming, she also knew that now wasn''t the time to ask.


    "Wang Brother, are you leaving?" Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "Yes," the person called Wang nodded.


    "But, the sky is gloomy, it seems like it''s going to rain," Zhao Suoxiang frowned.


    "Boom~"


    As if in response to Zhao Suoxiang''s words, there was suddenly a thunderous roar in the sky, and it started pouring rain.


    Moving to the eaves of a nearby house, the person said, "Hmm, thank you for your concern, Brother Zhao, but we have important matters to attend to. The eldest senior brother is here, that''s enough."


    "Zhong Di, let''s go," the person said, taking Zhong Di and quickly leaving along the corridor.


    Watching the two leave, Zhong Shan furrowed his brow and took a deep breath, temporarily setting aside his resentment towards Zhong Di.


    "This person is the second senior brother of the third generation of the Bright Sword Pavilion, Wang Gui. Let''s go, don''t mind him. I''ll take you to find a ce to stay," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "Okay," Zhong Shan nodded as he watched the two disappear.


    Following Zhao Suoxiang''s lead, they arrived at another small courtyard.


    Zhong Shan temporarily resided here. It was still afternoon, so with nothing to do, Zhong Shan yed a game of Go with Zhao Suoxiang and chatted for a while. Tian Ling''er either watched them y or took out the dice from before, ying with them.


    In the evening, after dinner, Zhao Suoxiang left the small courtyard.


    Zhao Suoxiang''s residence was the courtyard where the wolf pup was kept.


    In the courtyard, the white wolf pup trembled. Since the day it was captured, the white wolf pup had been living in fear.


    Every day, these humans would force-feed it rice porridge to keep it alive, and then feed it some white powder to immobilize it. Were these the bad people that grandpa talked about?


    Bad people, bad people?


    The white wolf pup curled up in the ss box, watching the rain fall incessantly on the ss in the dark night, its eyes filled with fear, its whole body trembling. Was it going to die? Grandpa, grandpa, where are you? I won''t run away anymore. Come save little Xianxian. Xianxian is going to die!

 Chapter 29: Do Not Provoke

    <h4>Chapter 29: Do Not Provoke</h4>


    Braving the heavy rain, Wang Gui walked with Zhong Di, holding an umbre.


    "Second Senior Brother, did something happen to Tang Xiaoyou?" Zhong Di asked, frowning.


    "I don''t know. Zhao Suoxiang has already returned, but he hasn''t. I''m not sure how his preparations are going. Eldest Senior Brother is worried, so he asked us toe out and take a look," Wang Gui replied solemnly.


    As the two walked along the main road, Tang Xiaoyou emerged from a shop with a wooden box in his left hand and an umbre in his right, coincidentally spotting Wang Gui and Zhong Di.


    "Second Senior Brother," Tang Xiaoyou suddenly called out.


    "Huh?" Wang Gui was momentarily stunned, then quickly walked up.


    "Let''s go, find a quiet ce," Wang Gui said.


    "Okay," Tang Xiaoyou nodded.


    Following Tang Xiaoyou''s lead, they soon arrived at a courtyard belonging to the Tang family.


    Inside, Wang Gui asked, "What happened?"


    "Second Senior Brother, I messed up this time," Tang Xiaoyou immediately confessed with shame.


    "What about the Spirit Orb?" Wang Gui furrowed his brow.


    "The Spirit Orb didn''t end up in Zhao Suoxiang''s hands. Instead, it was taken by one of his friends," Tang Xiaoyou sighed.


    "Oh?" Wang Gui''s pupils contracted in surprise.


    "Originally, ording to our n, I was going to find an appropriate opportunity to either lose or hand over the Spirit Orb to Zhao Suoxiang. Then, after we secretly took the demon wolf, Zhao Suoxiang wouldn''t react too strongly. Even if he found out it was us who took it, without evidence, he wouldn''t pursue it too vigorously. After all, he got a Spirit Orb without evidence. But just now, at the gambling den..." Tang Xiaoyou recounted the events.


    "Zhong Shan?" Wang Gui narrowed his eyes.


    Beside him, Zhong Di frowned deeply, ncing at Tang Xiaoyou, then shook his head with a sigh.


    "Zhong Di, it seems like you''re very familiar with Zhong Shan?" Wang Gui suddenly looked at Zhong Di.


    "Senior Brother, did he check the dice before?" Zhong Tian looked at Tang Xiaoyou and asked.


    "Yes, Jinzhuanlou is owned by my Tang family. The dice takenter should have been intact," Tang Xiaoyou said.


    "Intact? Once the dice have passed through Yi and Zhong Shan''s hands, they''re no longer intact," Zhong Di said with a sigh.


    Speaking of Zhong Shan, Zhong Di couldn''t help butment. Zhong Shan knew too much. Many things he taught to his disciples were only shared with each of them bit by bit, not universally. However, this technique of listening and distinguishing, Zhong Shan had taught him alone.


    "Oh?" Tang Xiaoyou eximed in surprise.


    "Listening and distinguishing. The edges of the dice have been tampered with..." Zhong Di said.


    "Too audacious, he cheated?" Tang Xiaoyou eximed in anger.


    "Weren''t you cheating before?" Wang Gui snorted coldly.


    "Second Senior Brother," Tang Xiaoyou frowned, unable to dispel his lingering anger.


    "How''s Zhong Shan''s cultivation?" Wang Gui asked Zhong Di.


    "A year and a half ago, he was still at the tenth level of the Houtian Realm. He should have entered the immortal gate," Zhong Di said, because he didn''t know Zhong Shan''s current cultivation level.


    "One year? Hmph, no matter how good his aptitude, what can he do?" Tang Xiaoyou said immediately.


    "No, Senior Brother, you must never underestimate him. And you mustn''t provoke him," Zhong Di immediately interjected.


    "Oh?" Wang Gui looked at Zhong Di, a hint of curiosity shing in his eyes.


    "I remember, back then, when he was at the seventh level of the Houtian Realm, there was a Primordial Realm expert who killed one of his disciples. When Zhong Shan learned of this news, he took only three days to retrieve the head of that Primordial expert and held a funeral for his disciple. And in the two days prior, he was still searching for that Primordial expert. In other words, within one day, he severed the head of a Primordial expert," Zhong Di said, taking a deep breath. At the same time, a hint of nervousness flickered in his eyes.


    One day? Seventh level of the Houtian Realm, killing a Primordial expert?


    Wang Gui and Tang Xiaoyou exchanged a nce, both disying extreme incredulity in their eyes.


    "It''s impossible. Seventh level of the Houtian Realm, killing a Primordial expert?" Tang Xiaoyou eximed in disbelief. Everyone knew what this interval represented, having cultivated from the Houtian Realm themselves.


    "How did he kill him?" Wang Gui asked.


    "I''m not sure. I only saw him disappear for a day, and when he returned, he brought back the head of the Primordial expert. So, if we can avoid being enemies with him, let''s not provoke him," Zhong Di recalled.


    "Since you didn''t see it, it''s uncertain. Maybe he found some help, and that helper was the Primordial expert?" Wang Gui shook his head.


    "Yeah, he could have hired someone. Just because you didn''t see it doesn''t mean it didn''t happen. Finding a few Primordial experts isn''t difficult," Tang Xiaoyou said.


    Finding a few Primordial experts? Only a millennium-old family could speak like this. Zhong Di was well aware of Zhong Shan''s situation at the time. If there were any Primordial experts, the incident in the Dragon Gate Valley wouldn''t have happened. Zhong Di was about to say something more.


    "Enough, there''s no need to discuss things you didn''t witness. Since he treasures his possessions so much, let''s make him cough up some, and then find an opportunity to kill him," Wang Gui''s eyes turned cold.


    Hearing this, Zhong Di was about to offer more advice, but when he heard Wang Gui''sst sentence, he fell silent. From the moment he saw Zhong Shan, Zhong Di knew that he would never have peace of mind in the future. Zhong Shan was like his inner demon. If he died, everything would be simpler.


    "Yes," Tang Xiaoyou and Zhong Di immediately responded.


    Darkness fell, and the rain poured outside. In the courtyard where the demonic wolf was held, a door suddenly opened, and a man in loose white robes, wielding a white sword, stepped out.


    "Brother Zhao, it''s raining tonight. You wanted to see my ''Rain Covering Sword Technique,'' right? Then follow me," the man in white said.


    With that, he leaped onto the roof and shot off into the distance, effortlessly traversing the rain as if it couldn''t touch him.


    Following suit, Zhao stepped out, gripping his spear, his eyes shing with a fierce determination. With a leap, he followed the man onto the roof, chasing after him.


    In the shadows nearby, hidden watchers revealed looks of admiration.


    In the courtyard where Zhong Shan resided:


    Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er shared a dwelling, with Zhong Shan sleeping outside and Tian Ling''er inside.


    "Zhong Shan, did you hear that?" Tian Ling''er asked from inside.


    "Mhm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Though the rain poured, Zhong Shan, being a cultivator at the Third Heavenly Layer, could hear everything clearly, especially the challenge between Zhao and another person.


    "Should we go take a look?" Tian Ling''er suggested.


    "No, you''re not allowed," Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Why not?" Tian Ling''er asked immediately.


    "It''s unusual," Zhong Shan''s frown deepened. Although he didn''t know what was happening, he sensed something subtly abnormal.


    "What''s unusual?" Tian Ling''er pressed on.


    "Just sleep. We''ll leave here tomorrow," Zhong Shan retorted, shutting down the conversation.


    "But if you don''t say anything��" Tian Ling''er started, her voice tinged with frustration.


    "Fine, go back to sleep," Zhong Shan said.


    Though he urged Tian Ling''er to sleep, Zhong Shan couldn''t shake off his feeling of unease. Watching the outside, he found it hard to rest. By midnight, the rain had stopped.


    Zhong Shan couldn''t sleep. By the time the fourth watch arrived, he heard voices from outside.


    "Brother Zhao''s spear technique is extraordinary. I admire it," someone said.


    "Brother Liu''s swordsmanship is also superb. Brother Zhao has gained a lot," Zhao responded.


    After that, silence fell. Clearly, they had each gone back to rest. Zhong Shan decided to try to rest as well.


    The next morning, Zhong Shan woke up and roused Tian Ling''er, preparing to leave immediately. His sense of unease had grown stronger.


    "Why did you wake me up so early?" Tian Ling''erined, rubbing her still-sleepy eyes.


    "Oh no, something''s wrong. The demonic wolf has mutated, it''s mutated!" A distant voice suddenly cried out.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan knew something bad had happened. Tian Ling''er immediately perked up, her curiosity piqued.


    "A mutated demonic wolf? What''s that?"


    Quickly, Tian Ling''er tidied up her clothes, washed her face with the basin brought by the maid, and then pulled Zhong Shan to run outside.


    Before long, they arrived at the courtyard where the demonic wolf was confined.


    At this moment, everyone was standing in the courtyard. Zhao Suoxiang, Zhong Di, Wang Gui, Tang Xiaoyou, a man in white robes, and a highly respectful servant.


    They all looked towards the outside of the ss cover, where a white foxy on the ground. Had the white wolf turned into a white fox?


    "The white wolf turned into a white fox?" Tian Ling''er looked incredulously at the white fox lying before her.


    "No way, a wolf is a wolf. It must have been swapped," Zhao Suoxiang said sharply.


    "Swapped? How could that happen? Tang Si, exin yourself," Tang Xiaoyou demanded, addressing the servant.


    All eyes turned to him. Tang Si trembled in fear and immediately knelt down.


    "Young Master, I came to feed the white wolf with rice soup this morning as usual, but when I carried it out, it turned into this, mutated. It turned into a fox," Tang Si said, visibly terrified.


    "Did it change thest time you fed it rice soup?" Zhao Suoxiang''s voice turned cold.


    "No, yesterday it rained heavily, and after the rain at night, I fed it once. It was still a white wolf then. That''s what the guards saw. It was still a wolf at that time," Tang Si said fearfully.


    "So you''re saying the wolf was swapped after the rain? When Brother Liu and I came back from ourpetition at the fourth watch, it wouldn''t have been possible for someone to swap it. That means it was after the rain, during the hour from midnight to 2 a.m., that the white wolf was stolen?" Zhao Suoxiang said coldly.


    "It must have been you. It must have been you!" Tang Xiaoyou suddenly pointed at Zhong Shan.


    Hearing Tang Xiaoyou''s usation, Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes.


    "Why should it be us? Where did you see that?" Tian Ling''er immediately became anxious.


    "You, you said that if you encountered the demonic wolf, you would let it go. It must have been you who released the demonic wolf," Tang Xiaoyou pointed at Tian Ling''er.


    "Hmph, which ear did you hear that with?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    At Zhong Shan''s words, Tian Ling''er immediately remembered that Tang Xiaoyou wasn''t even present when she said those words.


    "Yeah, how did you hear that?" Tian Ling''er immediately eximed.


    "Second Brother and Zhong Di said it. You can''t deny it," Tang Xiaoyou immediately retorted. Obviously, he was also quick-witted.

 Chapter 30: Ink, Brush, Paper, and Inkstone

    <h4>Chapter 30: Ink, Brush, Paper, and Inkstone</h4>


    "We didn''t do it. I just said it casually at that time. We didn''t steal the demonic wolf," Tian Ling''er shouted angrily.


    "Didn''t steal it? Then why is the demonic wolf gone? It must be you who stole it, killed it, and put it in your storage bracelet," Tang Xiaoyou used, pointing at Tian Ling''er.


    Hearing Tang Xiaoyou''s usation, Zhong Shan raised his eyebrow, immediately discerning the underlying motives. Just a moment ago, Tang Xiaoyou said Tian Ling''er would release the wolf, and now he ims she killed it? It seemed the wolf''s disappearance wasn''t the work of an outsider but had something to do with Tang Xiaoyou.


    "I didn''t do it. I didn''t," Tian Ling''er was anxious, pulling out her red silk, as if ready to fight Tang Xiaoyou to prove her innocence.


    "See, see? The moment I use you, you pull out your magical weapon. If it wasn''t you, then who was it?" Tang Xiaoyou immediately shouted.


    Originally, Zhao Suoxiang hadn''t suspected Tian Ling''er. He was more suspicious of the four from Mingjian Pavilion, as from his conversations with Zhong Shan, he felt Zhong Shan wasn''t the type to steal. But when Tian Ling''er brought out her red silk, Zhao Suoxiang''s mind wavered. If it wasn''t her, why was she so agitated?


    "Hand it over. Hand over the wolf''s corpse and my Kongling Pearl. You even cheated, tampered with the dice," Tang Xiaoyou pointed at Tian Ling''er and Zhong Shan, angrily.


    "We didn''t steal anything. Zhong Shan, say something!" Tian Ling''er urgently called out to Zhong Shan. Although she had drawn her red silk, Tian Ling''er wasn''t one to resort to violence without reason.


    "I know who the thief is," Zhong Shan suddenly spoke.


    At his words, everyone paused and turned to look at him. A hint of surprise shed in Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes, while Tian Ling''er gazed at him in disbelief.


    Among the four people from Mingjian Tower across from him, all except Zhong Di showed a hint of skepticism. However, Zhong Di swallowed hard, a trace of fear flickering in his eyes.


    When Zhong Shan said he knew, he definitely knew. This was a habit Zhong Di had developed over many years. No, it wasn''t a habit��it was certainty. If Zhong Shan said he knew, he knew.


    "You know? If it wasn''t you who stole it, how would you know? I bet it was you who stole the demon wolf!" Tang Xiaoyou sneered.


    "Zhong Shan, do you really know?" Zhao Suoxiang asked.


    "Of course. You''ll find out who it was soon enough," Zhong Shan replied solemnly.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s confidence, everyone frowned.


    "Fetch me ink, paper, and a writing brush. I''ll tell you who the thief is," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Ink, paper, and a brush? Hmph, how can those things find the demon wolf thief?" Tang Xiaoyou scoffed.


    "Fetch the ink, paper, and a long table," Zhao Suoxiang instructed a servant from the Zhao family.


    "Yes," the servant replied immediately.


    Soon, a long table was set up in front of Zhong Shan, with all the schrly tools neatly arranged on it.


    Seeing this, Tian Ling''er''s big eyes blinked rapidly. In her father''s study in the Kaiyang Sect, there were simr schrly tools, though rarely used. She knew what they were for, but could they really help find the thief?


    Tian Ling''er was skeptical, as were the others. How could these tools identify the culprit, unless it was some kind of trick?


    Only Zhong Di, seeing Zhong Shan''s serious demeanor, began to worry. He believed in Zhong Shan, a trust built over decades. To Zhong Di, Zhong Shan seemed capable of anything except cultivation.


    "I''d like to see how you use these things to find the thief," Tang Xiaoyou sneered.


    Everyone watched Zhong Shan, who ignored Tang Xiaoyou''s mockery. He slowly began to grind the inkstick on the inkstone.


    Grinding ink? But there''s no water. Isn''t water needed to produce ink?


    Ignoring their puzzled looks, Zhong Shan continued grinding. Without water, he ground the inkstick into a fine powder. Slowly, he ground the entire inkstick into very fine powder.


    Carefully, he poured the powder onto a sheet of rice paper, dividing it into two parts.


    Selecting a brush with soft bristles from the set, he took a portion of the ink powder and walked towards the ss cover.


    Everyone watched in bewilderment, while Tang Xiaoyou smirked.


    Dipping the brush into the ink powder, Zhong Shan began to lightly brush the ss cover.


    Under everyone''s astonished gaze, he brushed every corner meticulously, as if ensuring he didn''t miss a single spot.


    Initially, everyone was merely curious. Suddenly, Tian Ling''er noticed something ck.


    The ss cover, smooth and clean like crystal, now had a patch of ck on it. What was that?


    "What is this? Circles, circles of ck," Tian Ling''er eximed, staring at the circr ck patterns emerging on the ss cover.


    "Those are fingerprints," Zhao Suoxiang immediately realized, his face lighting up with delight.


    Fingerprints��indeed, a series of circr fingerprints. Zhong Shan had used up his portion of ink powder, and now all the fingerprints on the ss cover were clearly visible.


    "Everyone who touched this ss cover after the rain,e and press your fingers onto the ink powder and then onto the rice paper," Zhong Shan instructed, tossing the brush aside.


    "How can this be? What''s going on? How are there fingerprints on this? You must have painted them just now!" Tang Xiaoyou eximed in astonishment.


    "Painted? Hmph. Try painting them yourself. If your hands aren''t clean, they''ll leave traces wherever you touch. Those traces are invisible to the naked eye, but the ink powder reveals the fingerprints. It rained heavily yesterday, so any old fingerprints would have been washed away. Whoever touched the ss cover after the rain left their fingerprints. Besides Tang Si, who fed the demon wolf, anyone who touched it is the thief. To clear everyone''s name, let''s all press our fingerprints," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Zhong Shan, you''re so clever!" Tian Ling''er eximed excitedly, grabbing Zhong Shan''s arm. She was sure she hadn''t touched the ss cover, so there would be no fingerprints from her.


    Zhong Shan demonstrated first, pressing all ten of his ink-stained fingers onto the rice paper, leaving ten clear fingerprints.


    Tian Ling''er followed suit, as did Zhao Suoxiang.


    Tang Xiaoyou, however, remained skeptical. He was convinced Zhong Shan was trying to trick him into confessing. He was certain that after his bath the previous night, his body and hands had been impably clean, leaving no traces.


    One by one, everyone pressed their fingerprints onto the rice paper.


    Tian Ling''er immediately beganparing the prints.


    "I found it! It''s Tang Xiaoyou! It''s Tang Xiaoyou!" Tian Ling''er cried out excitedly, her face beaming with joy as if she had personally solved the case.


    "Impossible! That''s impossible!" Tang Xiaoyou protested vehemently.


    Rushing to the ss cover, Tang Xiaoyou examined the fingerprints, his face filled with disbelief.


    "It can''t be. You must have painted them on just now. You must have!" Tang Xiaoyou insisted, pointing at Zhong Shan and using him repeatedly.


    "Hmph, there''s only your fingerprint on it. How could he have painted it? Men, search every room here!" Zhao Suoxiang ordered angrily, his spear pointed forward.


    "It can''t be. It can''t be. I washed my hands. I washed them clean!" Tang Xiaoyou yelled.


    Zhong Shan coldly sneered at the disbelieving Tang Xiaoyou. Washed clean? Did he really think that would leave no trace? These marks weren''t from external dirt but were secretions from within his own body. At the Xiantian stage, the body expels impurities more rapidly and abundantly.


    "Stop!" Liu Ming shouted angrily.


    "Continue!" Zhao Suoxiang roared back.


    After all, half of the guards here were from the Zhao family. They immediately obeyed, rushing into the rooms to search.


    "Bastards!" Liu Ming cursed, turning to intercept them.


    "Whoosh!" Zhao Suoxiang''s spear pointed directly at Liu Ming.


    "Brother Liu, could it be that your group really stole the demon wolf?" Zhao Suoxiang asked sternly.


    "We found it! We found it!" A servant suddenly emerged from a room, holding the demon wolf in his arms.


    "Liu Ming, I can''t believe it was really you. ording to the rules, this demon wolf will no longer be shared with you," Zhao Suoxiang said, his eyes narrowing with a hint of regret.


    "It''s all your fault! It''s all your fault! Archers, shoot them! Kill them!" Tang Xiaoyou shouted.


    At Tang Xiaoyou''smand, arge number of Tang family guards charged from the distant corridor.


    Facing Tang Xiaoyou, Zhong Shan didn''t argue. Instead, he raised hisrge de, the Nightmare.


    "Mountain-Cleaving Strike!"


    He shed down fiercely. Framing him for the theft? Their enmity had deepened beyond words. In the world of immortal cultivation, where lifespans were extended, grudges only grew stronger. Settling scores was not just about the present but about preventing future threats. Kill or be killed!


    "ng~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Tang Xiaoyou reacted quickly, raising his sword to meet Zhong Shan''s de. However, Zhong Shan''s strike was too fierce. The force sent Tang Xiaoyou flying two meters back, his foot stomping down and turning the floor tiles beneath him into powder.


    "Xiantian third level? Hahaha!" Tang Xiaoyouughed grimly, lunging at Zhong Shan with his sword.


    At that moment, Liu Ming and Wang Gui also drew their swords.


    Seeing Zhong Shan engaged in battle, Tian Ling''er naturally joined in, hurling her red silk ribbon towards Wang Gui.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The red ribbon, imbued with tremendous power, collided with Wang Gui''s sword. Initially, Wang Gui underestimated Tian Linger''s strength. But as the ribbon shed with his sword, he realized toote that her power was on par with his own. The impact nearly knocked his sword from his hand.


    "Liu Ming, back off!" Zhao Suoxiang''s sword angrily pointed at his senior brother, Liu Ming.


    "ng, ng, ng..." The sh of sword and de between Zhong Shan and Tang Xiaoyou echoed loudly. They attacked each other relentlessly. Tang Xiaoyou was at the fourth level of Xiantian, while Zhong Shan was at the third. However, Zhong Shan''s ferocious swordsmanship made up for the difference in their levels, his strikes carrying the power of the fourth level. Remarkably, Zhong Shan hadn''t even employed his Demonic Body Tempering Technique yet.

 Chapter 31: The Mysterious White Wolf

    <h4>Chapter 31: The Mysterious White Wolf</h4>


    Zhong Di assessed the situation and chose not to step forward and help. He couldn''t intervene in the fights involving Liu Ming and Wang Gui, who were all at the ninth level of the Xiantian stage. Trying to intervene there would be suicidal. Only with Tang Xiaoyou could he potentially lend a hand.


    Tang Xiaoyou had just dered that Zhong Shan was at the third level of the Xiantian stage, while Zhong Di himself was at the fourth level. Knowing Zhong Shan well, Zhong Di understood that Zhong Shan would never reveal his true strength lightly. Thus, he dared not engage Zhong Shan inbat. Gradually, he withdrew from the battlefield, hiding in the background.


    The more Tang Xiaoyou fought, the more anxious he became. Zhong Shan, supposedly at the third level of the Xiantian stage, wielded his de with uncanny precision. It was as if every strike targeted the weak points of Tang Xiaoyou''s sword.


    "Shoot! Shoot the arrows!" Tang Xiaoyou shouted to the iing Tang family archers.


    Arrows could still affect those who had just entered the Xiantian stage, but for someone like Tian Ling''er, who had already formed true essence, they were useless against the dense aura surrounding her. Zhong Shan, however, hadn''t yet cultivated true essence. His body only emitted a faint protective aura of true qi, which was insufficient to block the arrows.


    While he couldn''t block them, Zhong Shan could still dodge. The speed of a Xiantian expert was far beyond what these archers could aim at. As a volley of arrows rained down, Zhong Shan leaped, swiftly moving towards the small wolf. A second, denser volley of arrows followed, aimed directly at him.


    Seeing the thick barrage, Zhong Shan realized he couldn''t dodge it all. A fierce determination gleamed in his eyes.


    "Demonic Body Tempering Art!"


    His muscles suddenly swelled, rapidly expanding to shield his body.


    When Zhong Shan had initially drawn hisrge de, the Zhao family servants had scattered in fear, dropping the small demon wolf.


    The wolf had been in a deep sleep but was jolted awake by the fall, feeling immediate pain. As it awoke, it saw the chaotic battle in the courtyard. Then, a rain of arrows, a sight it had seen humans use before, shot towards it.


    Are they finally going to kill me? Just like the other wolves, will I be shot dead by these human arrows?


    Grandfather, won''t youe save me? They are going to kill me. I''m going to die. Grandfather, Grandfather!


    Despair filled the demon wolf''s eyes as it watched the arrows speeding towards it. Regret flooded its heart. If only it hadn''t run away, it wouldn''t be dying now, wouldn''t have met these evil people.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    Suddenly, the wolf heard an angry roar. The rain of arrows vanished from its sight, blocked by a massive human body that had moved in front of it. That body embraced the wolf tightly.


    "Thud, thud, thud..."


    The demon wolf felt the human''s body tremble as arrows struck it repeatedly. Each tremor was a sign of an arrow hitting its flesh.


    He''s using his body to shield me from the arrows? He''s saving me? Is he the good person Grandfather always spoke of? A good person?


    "Zhong Shan!"


    In the distance, Tian Ling''er''s anxious voice called out.


    Zhong Shan leaped to a corner of the courtyard, gently cing the demon wolf in a safe spot before springing back into the fray.


    "I''m fine!" Zhong Shan shouted to Tian Ling''er.


    Gripping hisrge de, he swung ferociously at Tang Xiaoyou.


    "Mountain-Cleaving Strike!"


    Under the Demonic Body Tempering Art, Zhong Shan unleashed twice his normal strength. Pouring all his power into the strike, his de sliced through the air with a surge of red killing aura, shing towards Tang Xiaoyou.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s bloodthirsty eyes, Tang Xiaoyou felt a fear he had never experienced before. His entire body trembled as he raised his sword to block the blow.


    "ng~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~."


    "Slice~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~."


    Tang Xiaoyou''s sword shattered, and his body was cleaved in two. Blood sprayed across the courtyard, sttering everywhere.


    With a fierce expression, Zhong Shan lifted his gaze towards the archers. Terrified, the archers had already lost their nerve. Despite having shot so many arrows at him, none had seemed to affect him. Had his body been made of steel? The archers scattered, vanishing without a trace.


    "Retreat!" Liu Ming, having been defeated by Zhao Suoxiang, shouted to Wang Gui. His figure shed as he leaped onto a rooftop, disappearing from sight.


    Wang Gui followed suit, fleeing swiftly.


    As for Zhong Di, he had vanished early on.


    Tian Ling''er, concerned for Zhong Shan, ran to him the moment Wang Gui left. Seeing the numerous holes in his back, she worriedly asked, "Are you okay?"


    "I''m fine," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Tian Ling''er quickly pulled aside his outer garment. Seeing the truth, she found that indeed, he was uninjured, with only a few red marks on his back. Those marks, rather than diminishing him, seemed to add to his masculine charm.


    Masculine charm? Tian Ling''er blushed, quickly covering him up again.


    "Zhong Shan, are you alright?" Zhao Suoxiang asked.


    "I''m fine," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    "Zhong Shan, you are the most extraordinary person I''ve ever seen. A third-level Xiantian expert, yet you managed to kill a fourth-level one with a single strike. When you form your true essence, I must challenge you to a duel," Zhao Suoxiang said with augh.


    "Alright, it''s a promise," Zhong Shan responded heartily.


    Then, Zhong Shan walked over to where the demon wolf was. He gently picked up the demon wolf.


    "Zhong Shan, thanks to you, we found the demon wolf. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have seen it. You saved it just now, so this demon wolf belongs to you," Zhao Suoxiang said readily.


    Zhao Suoxiang was a person who clearly distinguished between grievances and favors. He felt a twinge of guilt for misunderstanding Zhong Shan before, and now that the truth was revealed, the demon wolf was a token of apology.


    "Okay," Zhong Shan responded without hesitation, epting the demon wolf as his own.


    Carrying the demon wolf, Zhong Shan returned to the previous courtyard where the maids had prepared water for him to wash away the blood stains.


    The demon wolf was also covered in blood.


    Zhong Shan brought it to the bathing area and tossed it into the pool, leaving its head outside. He didn''t pay it any more attention and proceeded to wash himself.


    After cleaning himself, he turned his attention back to the demon wolf. He quickly washed it in the pool, turning it over and adjusting it continuously.


    "Huh, this high-level demon wolf is different. Its entire body is covered in fur, and you can''t even tell if it''s male or female," Zhong Shan eximed with surprise.


    Nevertheless, he quickly finished washing the demon wolf''s entire body and chuckled, "It''s a female wolf. No wonder I couldn''t tell."


    After dressing, Zhong Shan carried the wolf out.


    "Zhong Shan, you should release this young wolf. It''s still so small. Let it return to its pack. Otherwise, it will starve to death sooner orter, and we don''t know what it eats," Tian Ling''er immediately suggested.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er''s insistence on releasing the wolf, Zhong Shan felt a headacheing on. Release it? But it''s a fourth-grade elixir. However, considering the condition of the young wolf, he realized that it might not survive for long. After all, he had noticed that the wolf didn''t seem to eat the rice soup he had vomited out earlier at the poolside.


    It might not survive for long, and once it died and its blood dried up, it would be of no use. If he took care of it, he would have another thing to look after.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er''s unwavering determination to release the wolf, Zhong Shan shook his head and said somewhat indulgently, "Alright, I''ll listen to you."


    "Zhong Shan, are you really nning to release this young wolf?" Zhao Suoxiang couldn''t believe it.


    "Yes."


    Zhong Shan initially felt a bit reluctant, but since he had promised Tian Ling''er, he let go of his reluctance. Once a man made a promise, he must fulfill it, and that was Zhong Shan''s way of doing things.


    "Alright, I''ll take you there," Zhao Suoxiang nodded immediately. Since Zhong Shan agreed, he had nothing more to say.


    In the afternoon, the group arrived at a remote mountainous area in the north. Although Zhao Suoxiang was also at the Ninth Stage of the Innate Realm, his spear couldn''t carry him like Tian Ling''er''s red silk could. After all, the materials for Tian Ling''er''s red silk were not easy toe by.


    When they reached the smallke, Zhong Shan gently ced the demon wolf down.


    "Let''s go, let''s go," Tian Ling''er eximed joyfully.


    The demon wolf looked at Zhong Shan in disbelief, then at the other two, took a few steps forward, then turned around. Finally, it confirmed that Zhong Shan was really letting it go. At that moment, the demon wolf finally realized that Zhong Shan was indeed a good person, and that it had encountered a good person.


    The demon wolf quickly ran up to Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan, with a puzzled expression, reached out to pick up the demon wolf, but it leaped lightly out of his grasp. It looked at Zhong Shan''s left palm and licked it gently. Then, it suddenly spat out a white liquid from its mouth.


    Spit?


    The three of them watched in amazement at what the demon wolf did to Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan had released it, yet it still spat on him? But did the demon wolf know what it meant to spit?


    After spitting out the white liquid, the demon wolf leaped away and quickly disappeared into the depths of the mountains, out of Zhong Shan''s sight.


    "This little wolf, even after you released it, it still spat on you," Tian Ling''er said with a smile.


    But Zhong Shan didn''t say anything.


    Spit? It wasn''t spit. Zhong Shan felt that the white liquid, when it entered the palm of his left hand, quickly permeated his body. And he had a feeling that the white liquid seemed to have merged into his bloodstream.


    Shaking his head, Zhong Shan shook off his doubts.


    "Alright, let''s go back," Zhong Shan said.


    "Okay," Tian Ling''er responded immediately.


    Then, the three of them, as before, quickly left the mountain and headed back.


    Unbeknownst to them, after half an hour, on a peak in the distance, a strange sight appeared.


    Arge wolf, a giant wolf standing two meters tall, stood on the mountaintop. And on top of this giant wolf''s head was a small wolf, about a foot tall. It was the same little wolf that Zhong Shan had just released.


    The little wolf stood on the head of the big wolf, watching Zhong Shan slowly disappear into the mountains. Then, the little wolf gently called out a few times to the big wolf below, as ifmanding it.


    The big wolf immediately responded with a few howls, as if obeying the little wolf''smand, and quickly turned around, rushing into the depths of the mountains.

 Chapter 32 - Thirty-Two: Sky-Cutting Sword Technique

    <h4>Chapter 32: Chapter Thirty-Two: Sky-Cutting Sword Technique</h4>


    The group returned to their previous residence in Biancheng and found temporary amodation under Zhao Suoxiang''s family influence. During the day, Clock Mountain took Tian Ling''er out for a stroll. As they passed by a jade shop, Tian Ling''er picked out a few essories, while Clock Mountain approached the shopkeeper and obtained a small scroll.


    Back at their residence, Clock Mountain retreated to his room and gently extracted a piece of cloth from the scroll. It bore a few lines of confidential information:


    "At midnightst night, there was a great battle in Huicheng, suspected to be the work of Hao San''s men!"


    Clock Mountain''s brow furrowed as he absorbed the message. Hao San''s men? This information came from the Dark Night Hall, thergest assassin organization in the Six Nations. Clock Mountain had instructed the Hall''s leader, Dark Emperor, to keep an eye out for any news.


    Midnightst night? Clock Mountain pondered for a moment, then lit a match and burned the cloth along with the scroll. Once reduced to ashes, he dispersed them with a wave of his hand.


    He then gently pushed the door open and stepped outside.


    "Clock Mountain," Zhao Suoxiang''s voice suddenly came from outside.


    "Where''s Ling''er?" Zhao Suoxiang noticed Tian Ling''er was missing as soon as he arrived.


    "She''s bathing. What''s the matter?" Clock Mountain frowned at Zhao Suoxiang.


    "There was a major battle in Huicheng yesterday, and word has it that Hao San appeared," Zhao Suoxiang said immediately.


    "Hao San appeared? Hold on, let''s wait for Ling''er toe out, then we''ll set off," Clock Mountain said.


    "Mhm," Zhao Suoxiang nodded.


    A dayter, Clock Mountain and Zhao Suoxiang rode their horses along a main road, while Tian Ling''er soared above them on her red silk. Excited at the news of Hao San''s appearance, Tian Ling''er couldn''t wait to go.


    Huicheng was a thousand miles away from Biancheng, but Clock Mountain and Zhao Suoxiang made the journey in just one day, riding their fast horses.


    Upon reaching the outskirts of the city, they encountered a group of people waiting at a small post station, with some others sitting around, taking a break.


    As Zhao Suoxiang rode closer, he saw the group of people.


    "Sir, they headed into the mountains to the north," one of the nobly-dressed individuals called out to Zhao Suoxiang on horseback.


    Clock Mountain halted his horse and also noticed a man in gray clothing. His eyes lit up as he observed a peculiar emblem on the man''s attire. After the nobleman''s confirmation, Clock Mountain nodded subtly.


    "Clock Mountain, let''s dismount and head into the mountains," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "Let''s go." Clock Mountain immediately dismounted, not bothering with the horse. Instead of entering Huicheng, he ran directly towards the mountains to the north.


    Zhao Suoxiang was at the ninth stage of the First Heaven, and Clock Mountain, wearing his Windchase Boots, disappeared from view in the blink of an eye, leaving the crowd in awe.


    Tian Ling''er watched the two of them run towards the mountains from high above and naturally flew after them.


    As they entered the mountains, Tian Ling''er gradually descended.


    "Clock Mountain, why are we going into the mountains?" Tian Ling''er immediately asked.


    "The people tracking Hao San have all entered the mountains. We can''t fly, so you stay in the sky and let us know if you spot anyone or see arge group of people," Clock Mountain exined.


    "Mhm," Tian Ling''er nodded eagerly. Finally having something to do, Tian Ling''er was very happy.


    She flew up into the sky and quickly began to survey the area.


    "Clock Mountain, over there, there''s a fight! Wow, the mountains over there have copsed!" Tian Ling''er eximed excitedly after scanning the area from the sky.


    "Clock Mountain, that way, hurry up! I''ll go check it out first," Tian Ling''er urged eagerly.


    "No!" Clock Mountain suddenly shouted.


    Hearing Clock Mountain''s words, Tian Ling''er paused, looking at him with confusion.


    "Wait for me," Clock Mountain said simply.


    Tian Ling''er actually wanted to go, eager to see what was happening over there. But at Clock Mountain''s request, she hesitated for a moment before reluctantly nodding with a furrowed brow.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er obediently agreeing, Clock Mountain felt relieved. He and Zhao Suoxiang then hurriedly followed in the direction Tian Ling''er pointed out.


    "Hurry up,e on!" Tian Ling''er urged them impatiently along the way, her heart racing as she continuously urged the two men to move faster.


    From afar, Clock Mountain could already hear the roaring sound. The power was so immense that even from a distance, it made Clock Mountain incredibly solemn.


    "You don''t need to wait for me. With Ling''er by my side, I''ll be fine. You go ahead," Clock Mountain said to Zhao Suoxiang.


    Although Clock Mountain had the Windchase Boots, his speed was still much slowerpared to Zhao Suoxiang. However, Zhao Suoxiang had been waiting for Clock Mountain and didn''t say much.


    "Alright," Zhao Suoxiang readily agreed, immediately spurring his horse into action and dashing off into the distance.


    Watching Zhao Suoxiang quickly run off, Tian Ling''er felt a wave of anxiety and sighed. At the same time, she couldn''t help but feel a tinge of envy.


    Clock Mountain shook his head and smiled at Tian Ling''er before speeding up towards the source of themotion.


    The closer they got, the louder the noise became. Obviously, the battle there was bing more intense.


    "Boom!"


    A loud crash echoed, followed by a miserable cry.


    Tian Ling''er''s eyes were filled with curiosity and anxiety. She desperately wanted to fly over and see what was happening, but Clock Mountain wouldn''t allow it, leaving her feeling helpless.


    "Big Brother, it''s Big Brother!" Tian Ling''er suddenly eximed with joy on her face,pletely ignoring Clock Mountain as she quickly flew over.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er suddenly fly off, Clock Mountain frowned but still hurried towards the direction of the roaring sound.


    Soon, Clock Mountain saw the scene ahead.


    In front of him was a huge valley, filled with debris. In the center stood the second generation senior brother of the Kaiyang Sect, Tian Sha. Surrounding him were numerous cultivators, facing off against a shrunken old man in ck robes.


    The old man emitted arge amount of ck aura and stood on a flying sword, half-floating in the air. He single-handedly held back many strong cultivators, with a mountain behind him.


    The old man held a whisk in his hand, his face filled with a murderous aura as he looked at the crowd. On the ground, numerous cultivatorsy in disarray, clearly injured by the old man earlier.


    Tian Sha confronted the old man directly, while Tian Ling''er flew nearby.


    "Step aside," Tian Sha said in a deep voice.


    "Hahaha, chasing after the young master? The young master has already escaped. You can give up on that idea and ept your fate." The shrunken old manughed heartily.


    "Hmph." Tian Sha snorted coldly, his snort filled with endless killing intent.


    Hearing this snort, the old man seemed to sense danger and swung his whisk towards Tian Sha. However, at that moment, Tian Sha ced his hand on the hilt of his longsword at his waist and quickly drew the sword with a peculiar gesture.


    "Swish~"


    The sound of a sword being unsheathed reached Clock Mountain, but just as it did, he felt as if the entire world was suddenly engulfed in a blinding sh of lightning. The lightning was so intense that Clock Mountain felt momentarily blinded, seeing nothing but a bright white light before him.


    In the blink of an eye...


    "Swish~"


    The sound of a sword being sheathed again.


    Clock Mountain''s vision returned, but in that instant, he saw Tian Sha already sheathing his sword. Before him, the old man had been split in half from the middle, a bloodied gash forming where the de had struck.


    The broken whisk fell to the ground, and the flying swordnded nearby. Meanwhile, the old man copsed lifelessly.


    As the other cultivators witnessed the death of the old man and looked at Tian Sha, their eyes were filled with fear and shock.


    Tian Sha was too strong, too formidable!


    "Kaiyang Sect''s... Sky-Cutting Sword Technique?" Zhao Suoxiang beside Clock Mountain sighed as he looked at Tian Sha in admiration.


    "Big Brother, you''re amazing!" Tian Ling''er eximed excitedly as shended on her red cloth, her face filled with excitement.


    After all, Tian Sha''s move just now was too cool. The Sky-Cutting Sword Technique? With one sword draw, the situation changed drastically, leaving all the other cultivators stunned by Tian Sha''s prowess.

 Chapter 33: The Aggrieved Tian Ling鈥檈r

    <h4>Chapter 33: The Aggrieved Tian Ling''er</h4>


    "Senior Brother, should we give chase?" A disciple of the Kaiyang Sect promptly stepped forward and inquired.


    "Go ahead. Yun Qian and I will follow shortly," Tian Shamanded.


    "Yes, Senior Brother," the disciples responded in unison.


    Several Kaiyang Sect disciples thenunched themselves into the air, flying over the mountains on their swords in pursuit. Disciples from other sects, seeing the Kaiyang Sect take the lead, quickly followed suit.


    "Zhong Shan, I''m going to check it out. What about you?" Zhao Suoxiang immediately asked.


    "I''m not going. See youter," Zhong Shan replied without hesitation.


    "Until we meet again," Zhao Suoxiang nodded before swiftly leaping over the mountain in pursuit.


    In the valley, the heavily injured individuals who had been lying on the ground were now being helped up and led away. As everyone gradually left the valley, only Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er, Tian Sha, and the Kaiyang Sect disciple Yun Qian remained, along with the body of the elderly man.


    Yun Qian picked up the elder''s horsetail whisk, his flying sword, and even took a storage bracelet from the elder''s wrist.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan surveyed the entire valley. The ground was littered with shattered rocks and deep, gaping fissures. The sheer destructive power on disy made Zhong Shan shudder involuntarily. The battle that had taken ce here was far beyond his current capabilities. Even Tian Ling''er, despite her prowess, wouldn''t have been able to intervene.


    The fight between Jindan (Golden Core) stage experts had undoubtedly been a sh of Jindan stage power.


    "Ling''er, what are you doing here?" Tian Sha turned to Tian Ling''er with a curious expression.


    Hearing her Senior Brother speak to her, Tian Ling''er felt a rush of excitement. She had admired him since childhood, though he had always treated her like a little kid. But now, things were different; she had grown up.


    "Zhong Shan and I were out training together. When we passed by here, we heard there was a big fight, so we came to check it out," Tian Ling''er eagerly exined.


    "Alright," Tian Sha nodded.


    "Senior Brother, it''s done," Yun Qian reported to Tian Sha, clearly referring to the looted spoils.


    "Alright," Tian Sha acknowledged.


    "Senior Brother, can I go with you?" Tian Ling''er looked at Tian Sha with hopeful eyes.


    Yun Qian nced at Tian Ling''er and smiled slightly. "Senior Brother, taking Ling''er along shouldn''t be a problem."


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Yun Qian," Tian Ling''er beamed.


    "Hehe, I''m not a Senior Brother just yet. Wait until you reach the Jindan stage," Yun Qian chuckled.


    Tian Sha looked at Tian Ling''er, his brows furrowing slightly before he nodded, "Fine."


    "Great!" Tian Ling''er eximed in excitement.


    "Zhongshan, I''ll go after Hao San with my senior brothers. It''s safe, don''t worry." Tianling''er still remembered Zhongshan, turning to him and greeting him.


    Normally, no one would object, even Yunqian and Tiansha thought it was natural.


    However, Tianling''er''s greeting to the new disciple of Kaiyang Sect made the two feel it was unnecessary.


    Zhongshan looked around and then at Tiansha and Yunqian, finally staring at Tianling''er. "You''re not allowed to go."


    Not allowed to go!


    Zhongshan''s words seemed to pour cold water on Tianling''er''s joy. Not allowed to go?


    "Why?" Tianling''er became anxious, calling out to Zhongshan.


    Tiansha and Yunqian looked at Zhongshan with some surprise. They didn''t expect this new member of Kaiyang Sect to speak like this.


    "Not allowed means not allowed," Zhongshan said sternly.


    As Zhongshan opposed again, Tiansha and Yunqian frowned.


    "You''re a third-generation disciple, right? Go back, and in a year, we''ll safely send Ling''er back to Kaiyang Sect," Yunqian said, furrowing his brows.


    Tianling''er rarely had a chance to be with Tiansha, how could she be willing to give it up? She felt extremely anxious. Zhongshan, who had always pampered and listened to her, why was he opposing now? Why now?


    Biting her lip, Tianling''er looked at her senior brother, really wanting to go with them.


    Zhongshan didn''t even look at Yunqian. Even though he was the second-generation disciple of Kaiyang Sect, Zhongshan didn''t look at him but stared at Tianling''er. "It''s too dangerous, not allowed."


    "No, with Senior Brother, I won''t be in danger, I won''t," Tianling''er immediately tried to persuade Zhongshan.


    "Alright, Ling''er, don''t argue with him, let''s go," Yunqian said with a frown.


    Tianling''er was very anxious now. She really wanted to go, but Zhongshan didn''t allow it. She had considered Zhongshan a very good friend during this time of getting to know him and didn''t want to fall out with him. But she didn''t want to miss this opportunity either. Thus, Tianling''er was on the verge of tears, looking pitifully at Zhongshan.


    After Yunqian finished speaking, Tianling''er took a deep breath, as if she was really going to follow Tiansha without hesitation.


    "Osmanthus cake," Zhongshan suddenly said.


    Osmanthus cake? Yunqian and Tiansha frowned. Osmanthus cake? They didn''t know what Zhongshan meant by mentioning osmanthus cake. Did he want to lure Tianling''er with osmanthus cake?


    Hearing what Zhongshan said, Tianling''er''s face showed a trace of pain. She closed her eyes as if very sad.


    "Alright, Ling''er, let''s go quickly, don''t mind this lunatic," Yunqian frowned, looking at Zhongshan and said to Tianling''er.


    Obviously, interpreting "Osmanthus cake" as Zhongshan''s nonsense was a mistake.


    However, was "Osmanthus cake" really nonsense? It was actually a secret code agreed upon by Zhongshan and Tianling''er before leaving Kaiyang Sect. Whenever Zhongshan mentioned this code, Tianling''er had to follow Zhongshan''s instructions. At the time, Tianling''er found it funny and amusing, but when Zhongshan shouted out the code, Tianling''er realized it wasn''t funny at all, but rather extremely painful.


    "Senior Brother, Senior Yunqian, I''m sorry, you guys go ahead, Ling''er can''t go with you," Tianling''er suddenly said to the two.


    "Huh?" Yunqian looked at Tianling''er incredulously. Even a fool could see Tianling''er''s admiration for Senior Brother. That''s why Yunqian had just persuaded Senior Brother to take Tianling''er along. But now, what was going on? Giving up just for an osmanthus cake?


    "Okay," Tiansha nodded. Yunqian could only give up, but he looked very puzzled at Tianling''er and then at Zhongshan.


    Tiansha also nced deeply at Zhongshan, with a slight frown on his brow. With a leap, he jumped over the mountain and headed towards the back of the mountain, followed closely by Yunqian riding on a flying sword.


    Watching the departure of Senior Brother, Tianling''er, feeling wronged, couldn''t hold back her tears anymore, and they flowed down in abundance.


    As the two left, Zhongshan breathed a sigh of relief. Tianling''er hadn''t left, which was good. Tracking Hao San was too dangerous. Just the battle in the valley earlier was something Tianling''er couldn''t handle. Could Tiansha protect her? Even if he could, this time, tracking Hao San involved not only Kaiyang Sect but also many other sects and powerful individuals. Could Tiansha ensure Tianling''er''s safety?


    Since Zhongshan had promised Tianxingzi, he would naturally do his best to ensure Tianling''er''s safety. Even without Tianxingzi''s promise, after spending time together, Zhongshan didn''t want Tianling''er to be in danger.


    After everyone left, Zhongshan quickly inspected the body of the deceased old man.


    Yunqian collected the spoils of war, while Zhongshan looked around for anything worth noting.


    Sure enough, after a while, Zhongshan noticed something unusual. The old man was a eunuch, a genuine eunuch.


    How could this be? How could he be a eunuch?


    Zhongshan looked at this scene incredulously. Was he truly a eunuch, or was it due to cultivation or past injuries?


    Unable to understand for the moment, Zhongshan looked up and saw Tianling''er, who still had red eyes and was tearful.


    Seeing Tianling''er''s expression, Zhongshan sighed softly. "Ling''er..."


    Before Zhongshan could finish, Tianling''er shouted at him, "Zhongshan, I hate you so much, wuwu~"


    Turning around, Tianling''er stepped on the red silk and flew away in a direction.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan shook his head with a bitter smile, and then swiftly chased after her.


    Zhongshan hurriedly chased after Tianling''er in the direction she flew, unaware that not far from them, on another mountain peak, there were three pairs of eyes watching Zhongshan''s direction.


    Zhongdi, Liu Ming, and Wang Gui.

 Chapter 34: Fire Wolf Valley

    <h4>Chapter 34: Fire Wolf Valley</h4>


    "Zhongdi, are you sure about what you said?" Wang Gui frowned as he looked towards Zhongshan in the distance.


    "Absolutely, Zhongdi dare not hide anything," Zhongdi immediately replied.


    "Senior Brother, ording to Zhongdi, this Zhongshan is indeed formidable. Last time, despite being only at the third level of Innate Realm, he defeated Tang Xiaoyou, who was at the same level, if not more... " Wang Gui frowned as he looked towards Liu Ming.


    "Zhongdi, what do you think?" Liu Ming asked Zhongdi in a deep voice.


    "It''s up to Senior Brother to decide," Zhongdi said with his head lowered, as if he didn''t want the two to see his expression.


    "Considering the speed at which Hao San and the others just went, we definitely won''t catch up. Since we encountered this Zhongshan, then..." A hint of ruthlessness appeared on Wang Gui''s face.


    Zhongdi and Wang Gui both looked at Liu Ming.


    After pondering for a moment, Liu Ming looked at the two and said, "The direction they went leads to Fire Wolf Valley."


    "I knew Senior Brother and I were on the same page," Wang Gui immediately said with a smile.


    Zhongdi, however, sighed quietly at this moment, his brows furrowed slightly, feeling a sense of heaviness in his heart.


    Zhongshan sprinted all the way towards Tianling''er, with a bitter smile in his heart. If he had known not to agree with Tianxingzi, he wouldn''t have gotten himself into so much trouble. But then again, no matter how much trouble, there would be great rewards.


    Taking care of Tianling''er for a year meant that in the future, he would have a mentor in the Nascent Soul stage. For Zhongshan, whose aptitude was extremely poor, this was undoubtedly a great opportunity. Although Tianling''er flew away in anger, for some reason, her flight wasn''t fast. At least, with Zhongshan using the Wind Chaser Boots, he could still keep up from a distance.


    Flying until nightfall, Tianling''ernded in a valley, with Zhongshan following suit. However, Tianling''er was very annoyed at the moment. No matter what Zhongshan said, she refused to listen, turning her back on him.


    "Bag," Zhongshan said.


    "Snap!" Tianling''er threw the things from her bracelet onto the ground.


    Shaking his head, Zhongshan looked at Tianling''er, who was acting childish, and smiled faintly. He took out some food and a hammock from the bag, preparing to spend the night.


    Although Tianling''er was angry, she still ate the food. She just didn''t want to talk to Zhongshan. Zhongshan remained silent as well.


    Looking at the osmanthus cake in her hand, Tianling''er''s mood, which had just recovered a bit, once again turned sorrowful. She stared at the osmanthus cake in her hand for a long time, unable to put it into her mouth.


    "Don''t want to eat? Then have it for breakfast tomorrow," Zhongshan said from the hammock.


    Hearing the words of the big viin behind her, Tianling''er felt angry again. Opening her mouth, she stuffed the osmanthus cake into her mouth. If you tell me not to eat it, I will eat it.


    On the top of a distant mountain peak.


    Zhongdi, Wang Gui, and Liu Mingnded there.


    "Zhongshan, what did you say? Such a good opportunity, and you''re not attacking?" Wang Gui looked at Zhongdi with surprise.


    Liu Ming also stared at Zhongdi, a hint of doubt shing in his eyes.


    "Zhongshan, I know him. The most alert time for him is not when he''s awake, but when he''s sleeping. The surroundings of this valley, as well as around us, although it seems calm, I dare say, with his alertness, as long as we enter the interior, they will definitely notice us," Zhongdi said solemnly.


    "Oh?" Liu Ming frowned and looked at Zhongdi.


    "How do you know?" Wang Gui didn''t believe it. How could that be possible?


    "It''s true. Although I don''t know what''s there, when I hadn''t entered the immortal sect before, whenever I rested in the mountains, he seemed to be aware of any movement within a kilometer. That''s why I said he''s terrifying," Zhongdi exined.


    Wang Gui didn''t believe it. He looked at Liu Ming, but Senior Brother Liu Ming frowned and finally said, "Okay, let''s wait until Fire Wolf Valley."


    "But, they''ve been deviating from the direction of Fire Wolf Valley all this way. How do we make them go there? What if they don''t go?" Wang Gui frowned.


    "Senior Brother, Second Brother, actually, I have a way. Since Tianling''er has been in the lead all this time and Zhongshan has been following behind, I can lead them to Fire Wolf Valley without revealing myself," Zhongdi suddenly said.


    "Oh?" Both of them looked at Zhongdi in surprise.


    Seeing the puzzled expressions of Senior Brother and Second Brother, Zhongdi smiled bitterly. "Speaking of which, this method was taught to me by Zhongshan. But now, Zhongshan doesn''t know we''re following him, so I think he won''t notice."


    The next day, under Zhongshan''s instigation, Tianling''er stuffed several pieces of osmanthus cake into her mouth and continued flying towards a distance, still ignoring Zhongshan. However, after a day passed, Tianling''er seemed to have calmed down a lot. Her flying speed wasn''t as frantic as yesterday, but she still refused to speak to Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan shook his head helplessly. Dealing with a youngdy was truly difficult.


    As they ran, Zhongshan suddenly saw a skinned wild beast in the distance, its internal organs scattered all over the ground, with arge amount of blood seemingly pointing towards the distant forest.


    Zhongshan didn''t pay much attention, assuming that hunters in the area were skinning animals for trade.


    Continuing to chase after Tianling''er, Zhongshan soon saw another corpse of a beast. However, this time, the beast''s corpse was even more disgusting, as if it had been rapidly dismembered.


    Zhongshan frowned and continued to pursue Tianling''er.


    When Zhongshan saw the third beast''s corpse exposed in another disgusting manner, he suddenly felt a chill in his heart. A bad premonition enveloped him.


    Looking around carefully, Zhongshan noticed that the air had be significantly hotter. In the distance, a volcanic-like structure emitted faint ck smoke.


    Upon scrutinizing their route, Zhongshan''s sense of foreboding intensified.


    "Tianling''er, stop!" Zhongshan shouted towards the distance.


    But Tianling''er was still angry and wouldn''t listen to Zhongshan.


    Seeing this, Zhongshan felt anxious. He quickened his pace, and Tianling''er, instinctively speeding up upon seeing Zhongshan approaching, flew rapidly towards the direction of the volcano.


    Not far from the volcano, on the summit of a treacherous peak, Wang Gui, Liu Ming, and Zhongdi stood together, watching Zhongshan getting closer below.


    "Zhongdi, your method is disgusting, but surprisingly effective. Tianling''er was clearly flying in the sky and couldn''t possibly touch those corpses, yet she slowly approached this ce. Why?" Wang Gui looked at Tianling''er, who was getting closer and closer, with amazement.


    Seeing Zhongshan approaching, Zhongdi sighed and said, "At the fork in the road, even the slightest psychological change can be magnified to the extreme."


    "Isn''t this the saying about a miss by an inch, a miss by a mile?" Wang Gui chuckled.


    "Alright, let''s begin," Liu Ming said, frowning.


    "Okay," Wang Gui nodded.


    Nodding, Wang Gui suddenly took out a powerful bow and arrow from his storage bracelet.


    Gripping the bow tightly, he pulled the string with all his strength, creating a perfect full moon shape with the bow, and then let go.


    "Swoosh!"


    The arrow made a series of sounds as it broke through the air. Tianling''er, who was flying, immediately noticed the distant arrow''s sound and turned to see that the arrow was aimed towards the valley ahead. A hint of surprise shed in her eyes.


    Simrly, Zhongshan also noticed the arrow. His eyes widened in shock as he turned to look at where the arrow hade from.


    Zhongdi? Was it Zhongdi, that traitor?


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed, and thoughts raced through his mind. He quickly made the fastest analysis.


    "Tianling''er, it''s dangerous, quickly, run!" Zhongshan shouted to Tianling''er.


    But Tianling''er, although still stubborn, now realized that the situation was dire. She looked at the disappearing arrow and then nced at the summit of the distant mountain.


    "Awooooo!"


    From the valley where the arrow disappeared, a wolf howl suddenly sounded.


    Hearing this sound, Zhongshan knew it was bad, very bad. Was this a trap set by the traitor? Even if Tianling''er was still angry, she now knew that something was wrong. She looked at the nearby valley with a vignt expression.


    Meanwhile, the three people on the summit of the treacherous peak, upon hearing the wolf howl, showed a hint of excitement.


    "Whoosh!"


    A two-meter-tall fiery red monster wolf suddenly appeared in their sight, followed by another one and another one. In just a few breaths, there were over a hundred two-meter-tall fiery red monster wolves, and more than two hundred?


    Moreover, over ten of them were over three meters tall, and there was even one over four meters tall��a wolf king.


    Fire wolves, demonic beasts known as fire wolves.


    Seeing the sudden appearance of numerous fire wolves, Tianling''er knew they were in trouble.


    "Run!" Zhongshan shouted to Tianling''er, turning around and running.


    "Awooooo!"


    The four-meter-tall fire wolf let out a roar, and over a hundred fire wolves rushed towards Zhongshan and Tianling''er, their eyes filled with bloodthirst, as if they were determined to tear the two apart as sacrifices.

 Chapter 35: The Strange Behavior of the Fire Wolves

    <h4>Chapter 35: The Strange Behavior of the Fire Wolves</h4>


    Tianling''er saw the pack of demonic wolves and knew things were not good. Though she wasn''t afraid of these demonic wolves herself, Zhongshan wouldn''t be able to withstand them. At most, Zhongshan could handle the lowest-level demonic wolves, but with so many here, there was no way they could survive.


    Moreover, among them was the wolf king. Tianling''er nced at it and, recalling what her father had told her before, immediately realized that it was at the peak of the innate realm, possessing formidable strength. Even she would have a hard time against it.


    But she could fly, so she could just ascend into the sky and be safe. But what about Zhongshan? What would happen to him?


    Terrified, Tianling''er swiftly flew towards Zhongshan''s direction. Although she had been angry with Zhongshan, deep down, she didn''t want him to get hurt or worse.


    As she rushed towards Zhongshan, the powerful demonic wolves, with the strongest among them reaching the peak of the innate realm, jumped up, opening their mouths to pounce on Tianling''er.


    Seeing the gaping maws approaching, Tianling''er quickly flew higher into the sky. However, by the time she evaded the attack, the other demonic wolves had already rushed to Zhongshan, blocking his escape route.


    In mid-air, Tianling''er, seeing Zhongshan in danger, became anxious. With a flick of her sleeve, she struck the wolf king''s face.


    Unluckily for the wolf king, it couldn''t maneuver in mid-air and was unable to dodge the attack. It was struck by the sleeve and only managed to breathe out a burst of me in response.


    The massive me surged towards Tianling''er, who quickly dodged it. However, the dy caused by her evasion made it even longer for Zhongshan, making Tianling''er look at Zhongshan''s position anxiously.


    But when she saw the scene where Zhongshan was, Tianling''er was stunned.


    Not only Tianling''er, but even the three people on the summit of the treacherous peak, members of the Mingjian Tower, were also stunned. What was going on?


    They saw Zhongshan holding arge de, ring fiercely at the surrounding fire wolves. Every time a fire wolf approached, he immediately swung his de at it. Despite more and more fire wolves encircling him, after they had surrounded Zhongshan, they slowly began to retreat.


    At this moment, for some unknown reason, the fire wolves stopped attacking Zhongshan simultaneously. They withdrew slowly, and their bloodthirsty eyes gradually turned calm.


    Cold sweat trickled down Zhongshan''s forehead as he brandished his de, looking around in disbelief. How could this be? How could this be happening? Why weren''t these wolves attacking anymore?


    After giving up on Zhongshan, the wolves collectively rushed towards Tianling''er.


    This was because Tianling''er had just struck the wolf king''s face with her sleeve, humiliating it greatly. The enraged wolf king surged towards Tianling''er once again, followed by the other wolves.


    Seeing the wolves surrounding her, Tianling''er, although puzzled, felt relieved about Zhongshan''s safety. At least, Zhongshan wouldn''t be attacked by the demonic wolves.


    On the summit of the treacherous peak in the distance, Zhongdi kept muttering, "How could this be? How could this be?"


    "Senior brother, what''s going on? Why aren''t those demonic wolves attacking Zhongshan?" Wang Gui asked Liu Ming.


    "Ask Zhongdi." Liu Ming was also puzzled and looked at Zhongdi.


    "I don''t know. I really don''t know. I don''t understand him. I don''t understand him enough." Zhongdi looked at Zhongshan with a fearful expression.


    Tianling''er narrowly avoided being scorched by the mes spewed by the wolf king, rapidly ascending into the sky. At the same time, she turned her head towards the treacherous peak in the distance.


    "It''s them, it must be their doing."


    With a face full of anger, Tianling''er flicked her sleeve and flew towards the treacherous peak.


    "Ling''er, don''t go. Come back!" Zhongshan roared angrily.


    However, at this moment, after ensuring Zhongshan''s safety, Tianling''er''s anger towards Zhongshan seemed to surge again. How could she listen to Zhongshan? She swiftly rushed towards the treacherous peak.


    Seeing the disobedient Tianling''er, Zhongshan felt a headache and sighed, quickly leaping towards the distant peak.


    Tianling''er flew ahead, followed by the demonic wolves chasing behind, while Zhongshan swiftly ran towards the distance.


    Zhongshan discerned the direction Tianling''er was heading and naturally chose the fastest route, although it took a detour. However, this route avoided some time-consuming uphill and downhill climbs between the two mountains.


    The demonic wolves, of course, were unaware of this. They simply followed Tianling''er blindly, wasting a lot of time as they went up and down the mountainside.


    Soon, Tianling''er reached the treacherous peak and engaged in a battle with Liu Ming and Wang Gui, brandishing her red silk.


    When Zhongshan arrived, he witnessed a thrilling scene. Tianling''er''s red silk had been pierced by Liu Ming''s sword, leaving a hole. The silk was damaged? What a loss!


    At this moment, the demonic wolves also arrived. They all stared at Tianling''er as if they wanted to tear her apartpletely.


    Seeing this, Zhongshan''s heart tightened. Without hesitating, he quickly jumped between Tianling''er and the wolves, pointing his de at them.


    It was a treacherous peak with a massive stone tform above. Tianling''er was fighting on the other side''s edge, while Zhongshan stood behind her, facing the demonic wolves.


    Tianling''er had no time to deal with the demonic wolves. At this moment, she seemed to want to quickly defeat her two opponents. The other two were both at the ninth level of the innate realm, although their techniques were not as advanced as Tianling''er''s. Nevertheless, they still possessed formidable strength. With two against one, could Tianling''er win? Gradually, Tianling''er found herself in a disadvantaged position.


    Zhongshan pointed his de at the demonic wolves, feeling worried. However, he remembered the scene from before.


    Although he didn''t know why the wolves weren''t attacking him, at this moment, he could only take a gamble.


    Sure enough, when the demonic wolves saw Zhongshan, they suddenly stopped. The wolf king led them, its eyes flickering uncertainly. It looked at Zhongshan with a face full of resentment, then nced at Tianling''er before reluctantly turning away.


    But as it looked at Zhongshan with angry eyes, the wolf king suddenly let out two howls.


    Then, it turned around and led the demonic wolves down the mountain.


    They left!


    They left? Zhongshan watched this scene in confusion. Why weren''t the demonic wolves attacking him? No, it seemed like they didn''t even want to harm him. What was going on? What had happened?


    Just as Zhongshan was puzzled, suddenly, every hair on his body stood on end.


    Danger! Extreme danger.


    A swooshing sound came from his right.


    ng!


    With a loud impact, Zhongshan''s figure fell towards the edge of the boulder.


    Terrified, he stood still, looking at the person who had attacked him.


    "Traitor!" Zhongshan said coldly.


    Seeing Zhongshan dodge, Zhongdi''s heart trembled. His eyes flickered as he looked at Zhongshan, then he raised his sword, trembling, and said, "It''s not my fault, it''s not my fault. me yourself, you''re too terrifying!"


    "Hmph," Zhongshan snorted angrily.


    "Ahhhh!"


    Suddenly, a tragic cry came from afar.


    Hearing this, Zhongshan was shocked. He turned his head and saw Tianling''er''s red silk, now riddled with holes. Her right leg had been cut by Liu Ming''s long sword.


    This was bad!


    Zhongshan''s heart trembled. He had to move quickly, break free from Zhongdi''s entanglement, and carry Tianling''er away. With his chasing wind boots, they should be able to escape!


    Demon body tempered by celestial demons!


    "Roar!"


    Zhongshan erupted suddenly, fiercely shing towards Zhongdi.


    Seeing this sh, Zhongdi suddenly remembered Tang Xiaoyou from before. His heart pounded, and he quickly retreated, letting go of his long sword.


    "ng!"


    Zhongdi''s long sword was split in half by Zhongshan''s strike. Before Zhongshan could target Zhongdi, he was already rushing towards Tianling''er.


    Just as Zhongshan was about to reach Tianling''er, she suddenly took out a white jade-like object, a square-shaped talisman with a fiery red phoenix engraved on one side. It was a life-saving talisman given to Tianling''er by Tianxingzi when she first emerged. A jade talisman.


    Tianling''er squeezed the talisman in her hand when she was injured in the leg.


    "Hummmmm!"


    A phoenix cry rang out from the shattered talisman, and suddenly, a giant phoenix, five meters long, emerged from it.


    As the fire phoenix appeared, it brought forth towering mes, instantly subduing everyone, including Tianling''er herself. This was her first time using such a talisman.


    The fire phoenix, without any instructions, danced in the air.


    Liu Ming and Wang Gui quickly reacted, recognizing the situation and immediately attacking Tianling''er.


    Feeling the threat, Tianling''er panicked and pressed her right hand downwards.


    The massive fire phoenix plunged straight down towards Liu Ming and Wang Gui, as if it intended to crush them to death.


    The two of them quickly jumped to the sides.


    "Boom!"


    The fire phoenix crashed to the ground. With a loud noise, therge stone below shatteredpletely.


    It''s worth noting that this was a huge boulder suspended in the air. As it shattered, it quickly fell towards the gorge below.


    Zhongdi, who was preparing to ambush Zhongshan, suddenly lost his footing and fell rapidly downwards.


    The ground where Liu Ming and Wang Guinded also shattered, and they fell down together.


    "Ahhhh!"


    Three consecutive screams echoed as they plummeted into the gorge.


    As for Zhongshan, standing in the middle of the two groups, he couldn''t escape either and fell down with them.


    But just as Zhongshan was horrified, suddenly, a red silk rope tied around his waist, stopping his fall.


    It was Tianling''er. She grabbed the center of the red silk, which was full of holes, with one hand and held Zhongshan with the other. At the other end, the silk was tied to a boulder above. Fear was written all over her face.


    It was no good. The stone that was tied up was shaking. It was about to fall.

 Chapter 36: The Calmness of Zhongshan

    <h4>Chapter 36: The Calmness of Zhongshan</h4>


    Tianling''er watched in horror. How could this happen? How could this happen?


    Zhongshan didn''t want to die. He really didn''t want to die. After all the hardships of cultivation, was he going to die here? But the rocks above were shifting, as if in a moment, they would both fall together.


    "Ling''er, use the Red Silk to fly, then hit me towards the surrounding cliffs. I''ll use my big knife to anchor us to the mountain," Zhongshan reacted swiftly.


    "It''s no use, the Red Silk is damaged, they broke it. I can''t fly you," Tianling''er said anxiously.


    Hearing her words, Zhongshan panicked. What to do?


    "Zhongshan, I won''t leave you behind, but I can''t hold on much longer. I''ll never see Big Brother again," Tianling''er said sadly.


    Touched by her words, Zhongshan looked at Tianling''er and said, "If we survive this, I''ll take you to find Big Brother."


    As he spoke, the rocks above suddenly loosened. The rocks, Tianling''er, and Zhongshan all fell towards the bottom of the mountain.


    "Ahhhhhhhh!"


    Tianling''er screamed in terror. Along with Zhongshan, they plummeted into the deep valley below.


    Was there no way to stop this fall? Zhongshan believed that falling from such a height meant certain death. But the closer he came to death, the calmer he became. In that moment, as his body fell rapidly, the world seemed to freeze in his eyes, his mind racing.


    In just two breaths, Zhongshan came up with a difficult n.


    Grabbing the Red Silk around his waist with his right hand, he pulled, bringing Tianling''er down with him, and quickly embraced her as she fell into his arms.


    "Ahhhhhhhh!"


    Tianling''er''s eyes tightly shut as she fell into Zhongshan''s embrace, screaming until she was sure it was him. Then she clung to him tightly, as if he were herst lifeline.


    With no time to care for Tianling''er in his arms, Zhongshan, in a desperate moment, grabbed the Red Silk and continued to pull. Therge boulder falling alongside them drew nearer to Zhongshan.


    Holding onto Tianling''er, Zhongshan used the Red Silk''s power to flip onto the boulder, crouching.


    Their positions kept changing, and Tianling''er became more awake. Held in Zhongshan''s arms in this critical moment, her form changed, her thoughts unknown.


    "Let go of the Red Silk," Zhongshan said.


    Reflexively, Tianling swiftly controlled the force of the Red Silk, loosening the binding of the massive stone. Below, they were nearing the ground, the bottom already visible. The speed of their descent had reached a terrifying level.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Embracing Tianling tightly, Zhongshan let out a loud shout, suddenly squatting halfway and then, with a fierce jump, leaped upward.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Therge stone''s speed suddenly increased fivefold, like a cannonball, swiftly shooting into the ground, while Zhongshan, holding Tianling, slowed down significantly.


    Slowing down once was not enough; now, they were still hurtling downward at an incredibly fast pace. The sessful maneuver transformed Tianling''s previous terror into a glimmer of hope, aplete trust in Zhongshan. With Zhongshan, everything would be alright, absolutely alright!


    Yet, they continued to plummet rapidly downward. Zhongshan reached for hisrge knife.


    "Hold on tight," Zhongshan shouted to Tianling.


    Tianling quickly clung to Zhongshan, holding on desperately.


    Once again, Zhongshan exerted all his strength, hurling therge knife fiercely downward.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The knife rapidly descended, and their descent slowed once more.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The sounds of the stone and the knife hitting the ground echoed.


    At this moment, looking at the remaining distance, Zhongshan was certain that after theynded, they would at most suffer severe injuries, but they wouldn''t die. Not dying was enough.


    However, at the moment of throwing the knife, Zhongshan involuntarily leaned forward, so now Tianling was below, and he was above.


    Looking at Tianling, Zhongshan decisively hugged her tightly and struggled to flip over, reversing their positions, with him now below and Tianling above.


    As their bodies shifted, and Tianling felt the weight on Zhongshan''s chest, she understood the meaning of this final action. Suddenly, tears welled up in her eyes. She hugged Zhongshan tightly in return.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a loud noise, Zhongshannded on his back, raising a cloud of dust.


    The tremendous impact, even though Zhongshan had trained in the Demon Body Strengthening Technique, caused him and Tianling to lose consciousness together.


    An hourter, in the quiet valley, Zhongshan woke up first. It wasn''t a gradual recovery; rather, it was the expiration of the time limit of the Demon Body Strengthening Technique that woke him up, his entire body sore and painful, waking him from the ache.


    The moment he woke up, Zhongshan burst intoughter.


    "Hahaha"


    They''re alive! Haha!


    Despite the pain coursing through his body, Zhongshan felt an unparalleled sense of relief. He hadn''t died. It was a relief that surged through him after theughter subsided, Zhongshan felt the extreme soreness that seemed to shatter every bone in his body.


    After resting for a while, Zhongshan felt the pain easing. He nced at Tianling, noticing two tear streaks on her face.


    Frightened her into tears? Zhongshan''s face softened into a warm smile. Little did he know, Tianling''s tears were moved by Zhongshan''s final action beforending.


    "Tianling, Tianling!" Zhongshan called out.


    Gently, Tianling seemed to awaken as if being shaken. Her eyshes fluttered a few times before slowly opening her eyes.


    As she opened her eyes, she caught sight of herself nestled in Zhongshan''s arms, her face suddenly flushing red. She quickly scrambled to get up.


    "Ouch."


    Just as she stood, Tianling''s body went limp, and she fell back into Zhongshan''s arms.


    Holding Tianling tightly, Zhongshan noticed the gash on her shin from Liu Ming''s sword. Blood stained the area.


    With pain in his heart, Zhongshan gently helped Tianling onto arge rock, then tore open her pant leg, revealing a pristine white leg.


    Seeing her pant leg torn, Tianling blushed again but remained silent, knowing Zhongshan was inspecting her injury.


    Sitting in front of Tianling, Zhongshan carefully ced her injured leg on his thigh and examined her wound.


    "A water pouch," Zhongshan said.


    "A water pouch?" Tianling''s face flushed red, feeling a bit dazed, not understanding what Zhongshan meant.


    "In the storage bracelet, I ced it therest time," Zhongshan furrowed his brow.


    "Oh, oh." Tianling immediately took out a water pouch.


    Gently, using the torn pant leg, Zhongshan cleaned Tianling''s injured leg, his movements extremely careful. However, Tianling''s heart was racing uncontrobly at this moment. She didn''t know why. Her whole body was tense, her face flushed, even her neck was pink. Tianling felt Zhongshan''s hands, as if they were scalding irons, pressing against her leg. The heat seemed to spread from her leg to her heart. Although she knew Zhongshan was cleaning the wound, Tianling couldn''t help but feel extremely nervous.


    "Wine," Zhongshan said to Tianling.


    "Oh." Tianling, like a puppet, immediately took out a sk of wine.


    Zhongshan poured the wine onto Tianling''s wless white leg for sterilization.


    "Ahhhhhh!"


    With a sharp pain, Tianling immediately snapped out of her daze.


    "White cloth," Zhongshan said again.


    Tianling quickly retrieved it, and Zhongshan gently wrapped Tianling''s injured leg.


    Tianling watched these actions, feeling like a deer was crashing wildly in her heart. She didn''t know what she was thinking.


    Gently releasing Tianling''s leg, Zhongshan said, "Rest for a while, regain some strength as soon as possible."


    "Okay." Tianling nodded.


    Then, Tianling quickly sat cross-legged and meditated for an hour before slowly waking up.


    "Better?" Zhongshan asked, looking at Tianling.


    "Yeah, much better." Tianling nodded.


    "It''s your turn to guard me now. I''ll meditate for a while," Zhongshan said.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Tianling suddenly felt a surge of emotion. But she still nodded, holding back her tears.


    With Tianling''s promise, Zhongshan quickly closed his eyes to meditate; his injuries were too severe.


    Watching Zhongshan meditate, Tianling couldn''t hold back her tears.


    It was all her fault. If she had listened to Zhongshan, it wouldn''t have been like this. Zhongshan had shielded her with his own body, sustaining heavier injuries than her. He woke up not only without recuperating but also took care of her, and then, after guarding her, he finally meditated to heal himself.


    For the first time, Tianling realized it was all because of her recklessness that they ended up like this.

 Chapter 37: A Sleepless Night

    <h4>Chapter 37: A Sleepless Night</h4>


    Four hours, a full four hours, passed before Zhongshan recovered from his severe injuries. Perhaps due to excessive use of the Demon Body Strengthening Technique, his recovery was much faster than usual. Although his strength hadn''t fully returned, his injuries were mostly stabilized.


    Opening his eyes, Zhongshan caught Tianling''s big eyes gazing at him, sparkling.


    "Are you hungry? Let''s eat something," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Zhongshan, I''m sorry for this time. I''ll listen to you in the future and won''t act recklessly again. I won''t be temperamental anymore," Tianling said, full of regret.


    "Huh? Haha, it''s okay. At your age, it''s normal to be temperamental. Wait until you''re old and be a little olddy. If you still throw tantrums, it''ll be ugly," Zhongshan chuckled heartily.


    "Pfft, I won''t get old. I want to be forever young and beautiful," Tianling''s mood immediately improved.


    "Haha, that''s the Tianling I know," Zhongshan shook his head, smiling.


    "Zhongshan, over there are the bodies of Liu Ming, Wang Gui, and Zhong Di. It''s disgusting, but fortunately, we had you this time," Tianling pointed to the three bodies in the distance, looking disgusted.


    Seeing the three corpses, Zhongshan frowned.


    "Have something to eat first, I''ll take care of it," Zhongshan said, heading towards Zhong Di''s body.


    Looking at Zhong Di''s deformed corpse, Zhongshan took a deep breath, shook his head, and sighed softly.


    Grabbing hisrge knife from the side, Zhongshan quickly dug arge pit not far from Zhong Di''s body. Soon, he dug it out and, with a final sigh, carried Zhong Di''s body, along with some parts, into it. Then, with a heavy heart, he buried it.


    Tianling watched silently, not interrupting as Zhongshan performed this inexplicable act. Why would Zhongshan bury the person who tried to kill him?


    With hisrge knife, Zhongshan carved out a stone b and ced it in front of the grave. After a deep breath and a shake of his head, he ultimately didn''t inscribe any words. An empty b.


    Then, Zhongshan turned to the other two bodies, Liu Ming and Wang Gui.


    For these two, Zhongshan showed no mercy, directly rummaging through their bodies. Each had a long sword and a storage bracelet.


    "Tianling, can you open the storage bracelet? And this sword, it should contain an Ethereal Pearl. Can you extract the internal metal?" Zhongshan asked Tianling.


    "Yes, both the storage bracelet and the sword contain an Ethereal Pearl. However, the Ethereal Pearl has a peculiar trait. Once removed, it immediately disappears without a trace," Tianling exined.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan looked at Tianling strangely.


    "I don''t know why either. You''ll have to ask my father. Anyway, once the magic tool is destroyed, the Ethereal Pearl that originally imprisoned the material inside it disappears like a bubble bursting. It''s just gone. The storage bracelets are filled with the material of the Ethereal Pearl, so when the bracelets are destroyed, the material appears, but whatever was inside the storage bracelets before is lost," Tianling shook her head.


    "Gone? How is that possible?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "I don''t know. You''ll have to ask my father. Anyway, it''s gone," Tianling said.


    Listening to Tianling''s exnation, Zhongshan felt helpless.


    "Okay, we''ll each take one storage bracelet, and as for these two swords, one for each of us," Zhongshan smiled.


    "I don''t need the storage bracelet. I already have one with arge internal space. You can keep these two, and as for the swords, the materials are too poor. Refining them will require a lot of my true essence and mental energy. I''d rather not," Tianling said straightforwardly.


    "Alright," Zhongshan nodded.


    Taking out hisrge knife, Zhongshan swiftly chopped at the two storage bracelets. Suddenly, the two white storage bracelets shattered, and the previous shine vanished, leaving behind two broken bracelet-like fragments.


    At Tianling''s side, she took out the Ethereal Pearl she had won from Tang Xiaoyou''s handsst time and slowly turned it into a bracelet, just like the first time. Zhongshan''s bracelet was crafted very smoothly and thinly. It wasn''t eye-catching, but Zhongshan didn''t care about aesthetics. As long as it could store items, that was enough. Being thinner meant fewer collisions and less chance of damage.


    Injecting the material inside, he quickly formed a bracelet that was almost the same color as his skin. At first nce, it was hard to tell.


    Because the Ethereal Pearl was soaked in his own blood, as long as he had a thought, he could see inside, a small space of about two cubic meters.


    The space wasn''trge, but Zhongshan was satisfied.


    From Tianling''s side, he retrieved his items, put them in, took them out, put them in, took them out, tried several times before finally heaving a sigh of relief, a slight smile appearing on his face.


    Storage bracelets, bags of holding, he had envied such magical items decades ago. Today, he finally had one of his own.


    "Isn''t it fun? When I first had a storage bracelet, I yed with it all night before I could sleep. The next day, my eyes were red, and my father scolded me," Tianlingughed.


    Looking at Tianling, Zhongshan shook his head and smiled. Tianling couldn''t understand his feelings.


    Looking at the two swords, Zhongshan shook his head. Both swords were top-grade, but their owners had died, so they couldn''t be upgraded anymore. As Tianling had said, the materials were too poor, but even so, they were better than ordinary iron. He put them away forter.


    Tianling was injured and couldn''t move much, so the two of them rested at the bottom of the valley for the time being. Zhongshanid out a nket for Tianling to rest on, while he continued to meditate and recuperate.


    As the sky gradually darkened, Tianling, with her keen eyesight, could still clearly see Zhongshan not far away, still meditating, evidently still recovering from his serious injuries.


    At some point, Tianling frowned, a hint of distress shing in her eyes as she looked at Zhongshan, her expression bing extremely unnatural. She wanted to call out to Zhongshan, but every time she tried, she stopped herself, as if Zhongshan''s current meditation state was better left undisturbed.


    Seeing Zhongshan, Tianling''s face flushed red, and upon closer inspection, she realized he wouldn''t wake up. Only then did she gently adjust her body and slowly hobble to Zhongshan''s back, keeping a distance and watching the entire valley below with growing anxiety.


    Eventually, she even pressed herself against the mountainside.


    Standing at a distance, she couldn''t find arge stone. It seemed like all therge stones were in front of Zhongshan.


    Surreptitiously ncing at Zhongshan in the distance, Tianling bit her pink lips, her expression extremely worried. But she had to relieve herself; she couldn''t hold it in. Currently, she was still in the congenital stage and couldn''t expel impurities from her body like a Golden Core stage expert.


    Approaching the mountainside, Tianling nced at Zhongshan again, who was still meditating with his eyes closed. Then she nervously undid her belt, her eyes constantly fixed on Zhongshan, afraid he might wake up suddenly.


    The moment Tianling left the nket, Zhongshan felt it.


    What was she going to do? But Tianling didn''t call out to Zhongshan. Instead, she awkwardly retreated behind him.


    Zhongshan had a habit of keeping the safest spot behind him. In this valley, his back was against the secure mountainside, while the unknown valley passagey in front.


    When Tianling reached behind him, there was no problem, but what was she doing back there? Zhongshan didn''t disturb Tianling but listened intently, tuning his hearing to the maximum.


    Suddenly, there was a sparse sound from behind.


    Listening to these sounds, Zhongshan frowned slightly. What was Tianling doing? He sat up straight, listening carefully.


    "Ssh, ssh, ssh..."


    It wasn''t until the sound of flowing water came from behind that Zhongshan suddenly felt his body stiffen, finally realizing what Tianling was doing behind him.


    A sense of absurdity rushed into Zhongshan''s heart, and at that moment, his body stiffened and trembled slightly. Immediately, he pretended not to notice, feigning deep meditation.


    But Tianling was even more nervous than Zhongshan, her eyes fixed on him. When she felt Zhongshan''s body tremble slightly, Tianling''s own body also trembled anxiously. The previous sound of flowing water suddenly stopped.


    Had he noticed? Was Zhongshan awake? Tianling''s face was so hot it could fry an egg.


    But holding it in halfway through was extremely ufortable. Seeing Zhongshan no longer moving, Tianling couldn''t hold it any longer and resumed making the sound of flowing water.


    Until finally, Tianling kept her eyes on Zhongshan.


    The water stopped, and then came the sparse sound of clothes being put on.


    Tianling limped back to the nket she had been on before, but her mind was in chaos. Had Zhongshan woken up? Had he heard what she was doing?


    Lying on the nket, Tianling''s face felt like it was burning up.


    No, Zhongshan hasn''t woken up. Otherwise, why didn''t he turn around?


    Tianling kept reassuring herself in her mind, constantly reassuring herself, and finally, after an hour, she felt much calmer. As her mind settled, Tianling thought of another problem: regardless of whether Zhongshan had woken up or not, she had done something embarrassing earlier��staring at a man while relieving herself.


    How could this happen? Why did I do that? How could I stare at a man while...?


    Tianling buried her face in the pillow Zhongshan had prepared, as if trying to cover up her ming cheeks.


    This night was destined to be a sleepless one.

 Chapter 38 - Thirty-Eight: Blood Bodhi

    <h4>Chapter 38: Chapter Thirty-Eight: Blood Bodhi</h4>


    It wasn''t until thetter half of the night that Tianling, exhausted from her wandering thoughts, slowly drifted into the realm of dreams.


    At that moment, Zhongshan gently opened his eyes and turned his head to look at the adorable little bubbles popping out of Tianling''s mouth. He shook his head with a smile.


    An inexplicable sense of tenderness arose in his heart as he looked at Tianling. Zhongshan shook his head and continued to focus on recovering from his injuries.


    Zhongshan''s recovery speed was terrifying. The next day, not only did the side effects of the Heavenly Demon Bodypletely disappear, but his injuries also healed significantly.


    As the sun shone down, Zhongshan began practicing his swordsmanship.


    The loud noise soon woke Tianling up.


    She gently opened her eyes, rubbed them, and looked towards the source of the noise. She was stunned for a moment before suddenly remembering the embarrassing incident fromst night, causing her face to blush uncontrobly once again.


    Perhaps sensing Tianling waking up, Zhongshan immediately stopped practicing his swordsmanship.


    "Awake? Hungry?" Zhongshan asked.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s usual expression, Tianling blinked her eyes carefully and stared for a while.


    "What''s wrong? Is there something dirty on my face?" Zhongshan made an puzzled expression and wiped his face.


    "No, there isn''t," Tianling quickly replied.


    Finally assured that Zhongshan didn''t know anything about yesterday, Tianling rxed a lot. Thank goodness, thank goodness.


    "No, then let''s eat something. I''ll go explore the road and see where this valley leads," Zhongshan said.


    "You... you''re leaving?" Tianling stared at Zhongshan with a pitiful expression.


    Looking at Tianling, Zhongshan couldn''t help but smile. "Of course, otherwise, we''ll just stay here?"


    "I don''t want to stay here alone. My internal injuries are healed, but I can''t walk because of my leg injury. Can you help me go together?" Tianling looked at Zhongshan with a pitiful expression.


    Seeing Tianling''s expression, Zhongshan felt relieved, and a smile unconsciously appeared on his face.


    "Sure, let''s get up," Zhongshan said.


    "Yeah," Tianling nodded immediately.


    Helping Tianling to her feet, Zhongshan folded the nket with one hand and put the big knife into the storage bracelet with the other.


    Looking at Tianling''s legs wrapped in white cloth, Zhongshan squatted down, much to Tianling''s surprise, and, with his hands behind his back, lifted Tianling onto his back.


    "Ah~~~~~~"


    Tianling eximed in surprise, her feet leaving the ground. She had never been carried by anyone like this before. Wasn''t this bringing them too close together?


    "Zhongshan, put me down! Put me down!" Tianling blushed and cried out.


    As she squirmed and wriggled, it seemed like she was trying to break free from Zhongshan''s embrace.


    When Tianling was still, everything was fine. But when she moved, her graceful figure, supple body, and the two little white rabbits leaning against his back bounced up and down. Even though Zhongshan was already eighty-one years old and had his own persistence, his face couldn''t help but turn red.


    "Snap~~~~"


    "Don''t move."


    Tianlinger didn''t feel any fiery pain on her butt after Zhongshan''s sudden p. Instead, she felt as if Zhongshan''s palm contained an electric current that instantly surged through her body. Unconsciously, Tianling''s body stiffened, and she stopped squirming.


    Her mind went nk for a moment, and she didn''t even realize when she had wrapped her arms around Zhongshan''s neck. She sat there dumbfounded, half-dazed, before slowlying back to her senses.


    What was happening? Tianling checked her posture and realized that her entire body was pressed tightly against Zhongshan''s back. Her arms were wrapped around his neck, and her face was almost touching his neck.


    Tianling didn''t move, but she felt a numbness on her buttocks, as if Zhongshan''s handprint was still there. Her legs were embarrassingly syed open, sandwiched between Zhongshan''s waist. Although Zhongshan''srge hands were separated by clothes, they felt like two hot irons pressing against her thighs. Why didn''t the clothes burn through? Tianling felt like she was being cooked alive by the heat from Zhongshan''s hands. At least her face was so red it seemed like it might burst into mes at any moment.


    Zhongshan continued to walk steadily ahead, and Tianling, clinging to his back, felt a sense of warmth she had never experienced before. She dared not speak, nor could she find the words. Why was this happening? Was she still herself?


    But Zhongshan''s scent was quite pleasant. Tianling thought lightly.


    With that thought, Tianling''s face turned even redder, but a faint smile, unnoticed even by herself, appeared on her lips. Maybe, just maybe, this was fine.


    Zhongshan regretted pping her just now, but fortunately, Tianling had stopped squirming. If she hadn''t, Zhongshan would have had to check on her.


    "Ling''er." After walking for a while, Zhongshan thought about what had happened earlier and decided to speak up.


    "Yeah, yeah?" Tianling, still dazed by Zhongshan''s call, absentmindedly responded before realizing her mistake and quickly correcting herself with a puzzled "yeah."


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan furrowed his brow and said, "I promised you on the peak of the mountain that if we made it out alive, I would take you to see Senior Brother."


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Tianling immediately remembered Senior Brother. But now, for some reason, she didn''t feel as eager to see him as before. Tianling didn''t know why. ording to her past self, she should have been overjoyed. But now, why did she only feel a slight sense of joy?


    Furrowing her brow, Tianling nced at Zhongshan carrying her on his back and felt a warm feeling in her heart. After a moment of silence, she nodded and said, "Thank you, Zhongshan."


    "Hehe, what''s there to thank me for? If it weren''t for you using the Red Silk to save me, I might have ended up just like Zhongdi and the others,pletely smashed." Zhongshan shook his head and smiled.


    "That wouldn''t have happened. Even if I hadn''t saved you, you would have been fine," Tianling immediately affirmed, as if Zhongshan was invincible.


    "Maybe," Zhongshan chuckled. The method he used to save himself was a stroke of luck, and many things were just coincidences. Without the Red Silk, how could he have pulled down the boulder? However, Zhongshan didn''t argue. Maybe indeed!


    With Tianling on his back, Zhongshan continued to walk steadily towards the other end of the valley. He wasn''t in a hurry to leave, but rather, he wanted to take things slow in this unknown ce for safety reasons.


    The surrounding cliffs were steep, narrow at the top and wide at the bottom. How were they supposed to climb up? The rocks were also very smooth, making it incredibly difficult to ascend.


    They could only see if there was a way out.


    "Zhongshan, what''s inside there?" Tianling eximed excitedly when she saw the scene inside the cave.


    "Don''t speak," Zhongshan frowned.


    "Oh." Tianling was interrupted by Zhongshan, quickly shifting her gaze from the inside of the cave to Zhongshan, softly acknowledging.


    Holding his breath, Zhongshan listened carefully for any sounds inside the cave. He concentrated but heard nothing except for Tianling''s heartbeat.


    Picking up a stone from the ground, Zhongshan flicked it into the cave with his fingers.


    "Plop." The stone made a crisp sound as it hit the cave. Zhongshan continued to listen attentively.


    Meanwhile, Tianling, initially attracted by what was inside the cave, became more intrigued by Zhongshan''s actions. She watched him curiously, her eyes fixed on him.


    "No sound," Tianling whispered to Zhongshan.


    Hearing Tianling''s words, Zhongshan shook his head with a smile. After all, Tianling was at the Ninth Level of the Innate, so her hearing was naturally better than his.


    "I might have been overly cautious!" Zhongshan chuckled. Then, he carried Tianling on his back and walked towards the cave.


    Entering the cave and adjusting to the darkness inside, Zhongshan finally saw what was emitting the red light. In the distance, the faint red light came from the winding passage of the cave, along with the heat waves. At that moment, Zhongshan thought of a possibility: could this cave lead to the mouth of a volcano?


    Then, Zhongshan turned his gaze to the thirteen red dots scattered in different directions.


    "Blood Bodhi?" Tianling suddenly eximed in excitement.

 Chapter 39: The Fourth Level of Innate Stage

    <h4>Chapter 39: The Fourth Level of Innate Stage</h4>


    "Blood Bodhi?" Tian Ling''er suddenly eximed with delight.


    Thirteen fruits, growing on vines and resembling strawberries, radiated a red glow, seemingly highlighting their enticing appearance.


    Zhong Shan had long known about the existence of spiritual fruits in the world. Back in the ming Fruit Cave of the Kaiyang Sect, there was a powerful spiritual fruit that was surely much stronger than this one.


    "Blood Bodhi?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "Zhong Shan, Zhong Shan, put me down! These are Blood Bodhi fruits. If I eat one, my injuries will heal immediately. Plus, they contain a lot of fire energy. Maybe, just maybe, I could break through to the tenth level of the Innate Stage!" Tian Ling''er eximed excitedly, her eyes fixed on the thirteen Blood Bodhi fruits.


    Hearing Tian Linger''s words, Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up. Blood Bodhi?


    Gently, he released his hold and carefully set Tian Ling''er down from his back.


    As her feet touched the ground, the initial excitement in Tian Linger''s heart inexplicably turned into an empty feeling, a sense of loss flooding her for no apparent reason. She frowned and quickly shook her head. What was happening?


    "Can Blood Bodhi be eaten raw?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at the red fruits.


    "Of course, you can eat them too. But you''re only at the third level of the Innate Stage. Eating one might be very painful, though the benefits would be significant. You should only eat one at most," Tian Ling''er exined promptly.


    "Pain?" Zhong Shan looked at Tian Ling''er curiously.


    "It''s because the energy is too potent for you. The energy surge will be painful. My father said that while Blood Bodhi isn''t considered an extremely rare spiritual fruit, its formation is very peculiar. They grow at volcanic craters, but not all craters have them. There are many factors involved, though I''m not entirely clear on them. There are thirteen here. ording to my father, I need to eat eight to reach the tenth level of the Innate Stage, and it will also heal my injuries. This is wonderful," Tian Ling''er exined excitedly.


    "Are there any side effects? Will it hinder future cultivation?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "Uh, for you and me, there won''t be any," Tian Ling''er thought for a moment before replying.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan frowned. Why emphasize only the two of them? Would it not work for others?


    "Because Blood Bodhi is a yang-attribute spiritual fruit. You practice the Great Sun Divine Technique, so there''s no problem. I practice the Lihuo Divine Technique, so I''m fine too," Tian Ling''er exined immediately.


    "Alright, I''ll stand guard for you. You eat first," Zhong Shan said.


    "No." Tian Ling''er suddenly objected.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, a determined look shed in Tian Ling''er''s eyes. "You eat first this time. I''ll stand guard for you."


    Carefully observing Tian Ling''er''s serious expression, Zhong Shan smiled faintly and said, "Alright."


    Gently, as instructed by Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shan reached out and plucked a Blood Bodhi.


    The Blood Bodhi was as hot as boiling water, but Zhong Shan, at the third level of the Innate Stage, was naturally not afraid of it. He grabbed it, exerting force to pull it off.


    "Snap!"


    The Blood Bodhi was plucked.


    "Ssssss..."


    A series of hissing sounds followed as the vine that had been holding the Blood Bodhi quickly withered and dried up. The yellowing vine shriveled and fell away.


    "Once the Blood Bodhi is picked, the vine bes useless," Tian Ling''er exined from the side.


    Nodding, Zhong Shan leaned against the wall and sat cross-legged. He looked at the Blood Bodhi in his hand and resolutely opened his mouth, swallowing the fruit quickly.


    The moment the Blood Bodhi entered his stomach, it transformed into a powerful, scorching heat, as if it were roasting Zhong Shan from the inside out.


    Pain. The pain was intense. Unlike the external pain he had experienced before, this time it was internal, spreading from within. In an instant, Zhong Shan''s body was filled with fiery energy. Just one Blood Bodhi made his body feel like a furnace, his skin flushing a fiery red.


    Sweat poured down his face, but Zhong Shan knew this was a rare opportunity. He frantically circted the Great Sun Divine Technique, guiding his true qi through his meridians in continuous cycles.


    He realized that he had been careless. He shouldn''t have listened to Tian Ling''er, who, in her naivety, didn''t fully understand the situation. The energy within the Blood Bodhi was overwhelming��so much so that if another person at the third level of the Innate Stage had taken it, they would have been incinerated by the energy.


    If it weren''t for his constant practice of the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique, making his internal organs exceptionally resilient, he would have exploded on the spot. Even so, Zhong Shan felt as though his entire body was on the verge of bursting.


    He activated the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique again, pushing himself to his limits. He had to absorb this energy within an hour, or he would die from being overwhelmed by it.


    Tian Ling''er watched in astonishment as Zhong Shan''s veins bulged and his muscles suddenly swelled. She had no idea what was happening, only that Zhong Shan seemed to be in immense pain. She held a towel, wanting to wipe the sweat from his forehead but afraid to disturb him.


    Zhong Shan continued to focus on his breakthrough, circting his true qi over and over, constantly refining and gathering it. He knew he was fighting for his life. If he couldn''t refine the Blood Bodhi''s energy within an hour, it would be the end for him.


    Persisting, he finally broke through just as there was only a stick of incense time left.


    The fourth level of the Innate Stage��he had reached it.


    Relieved, Zhong Shan continued to stabilize his new level, consolidating his breakthrough. After another stick of incense time, he felt the pain subside. The aftermath of the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique still lingered, but everything was fine now. Despite having only about thirty percent of his true qi left at the fourth level, he wasn''t worried. In a day or two, he would be fully recovered.


    Gently opening his eyes, Zhong Shan saw Tian Ling''er.


    "Zhong Shan, how are you? The energy was immense, wasn''t it?" Tian Ling''er asked excitedly.


    Looking at her, Zhong Shan could only sigh inwardly. The energy was indeed immense, almost too much to handle.


    "Yes, I''ve reached the fourth level of the Innate Stage. Now it''s your turn. But I suggest you eat them one by one because the Blood Bodhi''s energy is extremely potent," Zhong Shan advised, nodding.


    "The fourth level of the Innate Stage?" Tian Ling''er''s eyes sparkled with joy as if she had been the one to break through.


    "You wait here," Tian Ling''er said quickly.


    She swiftly picked eight Blood Bodhi fruits, and the vines withered immediately, making a sizzling sound.


    Following Zhong Shan''s instructions, Tian Ling''er ate the fruits one by one. However, to Zhong Shan''s amazement, after the eighth one, she said, "It''s not enough, Zhong Shan, give me one more."


    With a mix of admiration and astonishment, Zhong Shan picked another Blood Bodhi for her, and even added an extra one. Only then did Tian Ling''er close her eyes and begin her breakthrough.


    Ten. She consumed ten Blood Bodhi fruits.


    Looking at Tian Ling''er and then at himself, Zhong Shan marveled at the vast difference in their true qi and true essence. He recalled hearing that Tian Ling''er had already reached the ninth level of the Innate Stage more than half a year ago.


    Zhong Shan sat patiently, watching Tian Ling''er''s skin glow with a faint red light. The red glow entuated her smooth, fair skin, giving her an almost ethereal radiance.


    He did not explore the deeper parts of the cave, knowing it was not the right time. Instead, he waited patiently for Tian Ling''er.


    Her breakthrough took significantly longer than his.


    An entire day and night passed before Tian Ling''er finally opened her eyes.


    As soon as she did, her eyes formed crescent moons of joy.


    "Zhong Shan, the tenth level of the Innate Stage! I''ve reached the tenth level!" Tian Ling''er eximed, jumping up and down, grabbing Zhong Shan''s sleeve in excitement.


    Watching her bounce around, Zhong Shan smiled. He noticed that the injuries on her legs hadpletely healed during her breakthrough.


    "Good, good," Zhong Shan said with a smile, allowing himself to be shaken by her excitement.


    "Zhong Shan, let''s go deeper inside. There might be more treasures in this cave," Tian Ling''er said, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Let''s wait for another day," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Wait another day?" Tian Ling''er asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, rest for a day before we go further. And are you really going to go in like that? Find a ce to change your clothes," Zhong Shan suggested.


    Tian Ling''er looked at herself and realized she was indeed in a sorry state. For some reason, she suddenly cared very much about how Zhong Shan saw her.


    "Really? Then you go outside and don''t peek while I change," Tian Ling''er quickly said.


    Smiling and shaking his head, Zhong Shan walked out of the cave. Waiting another day wasn''t just for Tian Ling''er''s appearance; he also needed more time for the aftereffects of his Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique to subside.


    Not long after, Tian Ling''er emerged, looking lovely in a fiery red outfit.

 Chapter 40: The Terrifying Old Man

    <h4>Chapter 40: The Terrifying Old Man</h4>


    Another half day passed, and Zhong Shan finally overcame the aftereffects of his Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique. At the fourth level of the Innate Stage, Zhong Shan felt an inexhaustible strength coursing through him, a sensation reminiscent of his past breakthroughs.


    Could just one Blood Bodhi fruit have such an effect?


    Gently, Zhong Shan plucked thest two Blood Bodhi fruits.


    "Ling''er, one for each of us," Zhong Shan offered.


    "No need. They won''t do me any good anymore. Without ten, or rather even ten wouldn''t be enough for me now. You should keep them. Blood Bodhi is a medicinal herb for healing. You should keep them for yourself," Tian Ling''er quickly responded.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded, not insisting further.


    "Can these be stored in a spatial bracelet?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "It''s fine. My father said Blood Bodhi fruits don''t spoil. They can be kept in a spatial bracelet for a year without going bad," Tian Ling''er replied after a moment of thought.


    "Good to know." Zhong Shan nodded again and stored the two Blood Bodhi fruits.


    "Zhong Shan, are you ready? Let''s go deeper into the cave and see what''s there. If there are Blood Bodhi fruits at the entrance, there might be even better things inside," Tian Ling''er eximed excitedly.


    "Okay," Zhong Shan agreed, but he kept his broadsword in hand. During his half-day recovery, he had noticed that the cave was not naturally formed. Despite its long history and the growth of Blood Bodhi fruits, Zhong Shan could tell it was artificial. Artificial?


    "Be careful and stay behind me," Zhong Shan instructed.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s protective tone, Tian Ling''er felt an unexpected warmth. She didn''t assert her independence as she had when they first set out. She simply responded with a soft "Mm."


    With the broadsword clearing the way, Zhong Shan led Tian Ling''er deeper into the cave.


    After rounding a bend, Zhong Shan discovered that the cave led downward. The deeper they went, the closer they seemed to get to the earth''s core.


    The red glow emanated from below.


    As they progressed, Zhong Shan noted the cave''s structure. It seemed dangerously unstable, as if it could copse at any moment.


    Furrowing his brows, Zhong Shan proceeded cautiously. The further they descended, the hotter it became. The faint red glow had turned into a pervasive crimson. Suddenly, Zhong Shan felt a sense of unease. What was this feeling?


    Despite the apprehension, Zhong Shan was determined to explore further. This could be a significant opportunity, but what awaited them?


    They had descended nearly a thousand meters��not in distance traveled, but in vertical depth. This cave was a massive undertaking. A thousand meters?


    By now, the temperature had reached a frightening level. Their clothes were scorching hot, almost at boiling point, if not higher. Zhong Shan took a bowl of water from his spatial bracelet, and in an instant, the water boiled and emitted steam.


    After putting the bowl away, Zhong Shan heard a faint ''sputtering'' sound from below. Lava? Yes, it had to beva.


    They could hear the sound of bubbling magma, and it wasn''t just that. Zhong Shan noticed another peculiar thing. Along the way, there was a misty area where steam from boiling water was evaporating rapidly.


    Huge amounts of steam were spewing from the cave walls, only to be immediately drawn back downwards.


    "Zhong Shan, what''s going on?" Tian Ling''er asked, pointing at the steam continuously erupting from the cave walls, filled with wonder.


    Water vapor spraying out from the stone? How could that be possible? Tian Ling''er widened her eyes, filled with incredulity.


    "This is groundwater, just leaking out as it passes through this cave and then getting evaporated," Zhong Shan immediately figured out the situation.


    "Groundwater?" Tian Ling''er looked at the scene with amazement. She had heard her father mention it before, but such groundwater encounters were rare. She hadn''t expected to see it today.


    "However..." Zhong Shan squinted his eyes, a sh of seriousness passing through them.


    "However, what?" Tian Ling''er interrupted immediately. Why had they suddenly stopped moving?


    "However, the direction of the wind inside is strange. It''s drawing all the steam into the depths of the cave," Zhong Shan pondered, frowning.


    From Zhong Shan''s understanding, if a deep cave has wind, it usually means there is another exit. But with this cave extending further downward, the presence of another exit seemed peculiar.


    "Why don''t we just go down and see?" Tian Ling''er said excitedly, darting downward quickly.


    "Hey, wait a moment." Zhong Shan frowned, following her closely.


    They had barely run down twenty meters when they reached the end of the passage.


    Magma, bubbling magma. At the other end of the cave was a peculiar environment��a massive magma pool. Surrounding it was a ring-shaped terrace, and above was arge opening, seemingly leading to a distant volcano''s mouth.


    This was undergroundva.


    The steam, upon entering, shot straight up through the opening, flowing upward.


    The magma pool below was about a hundred meters in diameter, a massive expanse connecting to even deeper parts underground. The magma churned, producing numerous magma bubbles that burst with a popping sound.


    The ring-shaped terrace around it seemed artificially made, remarkably smooth and unexpectedly situated in this deepest part.


    As Tian Ling''er rushed in, she quickly retreated.


    It wasn''t the heat��Zhong Shan could tolerate the temperature, and naturally, Tian Ling''er wasn''t afraid. It was because of the figure inside.


    "Ghost!" Tian Ling''er screamed, retreating straight into Zhong Shan''s embrace.


    "You''ve finallye down?" A soft voice echoed.


    Zhong Shan looked over, and suddenly felt a chill down his spine.


    What kind of person was this?


    A human, in shape, but from the waist down, the figure was firmly encased in ice. His entire lower body was frozen, and the ice was ck. Even near the magma, it emitted wisps of cold air. Through the ck ice, Zhong Shan saw that the man''s legs��no, they couldn''t be called legs anymore��were shattered into pieces, frozen into small crystalline fragments. It looked incredibly horrifying. On the right leg, even a bone was sticking out from the flesh, frozen solid.


    That was below the waist. Above the waist, it was theplete opposite��extremely hot, intensely hot. His entire upper body was a deep red, but the most terrifying part was his hair.


    His head was covered with countless strands of hair, all glowing red and connecting to the magma. His hair spread out like a vast, sinking into the bubbling magma, making one''s hair stand on end just by looking at it.


    After noticing all this, Zhong Shan finally took in the man''s appearance. An old man, an ugly old man. Just one look at him gave Zhong Shan a twisted feeling in his heart.


    "Do I really look like a ghost?" The terrifying old man chuckled softly.


    Zhong Shan furrowed his brows, watching the creature before him��a being neither human nor ghost. He pointed hisrge knife at it, staying vignt.


    "When did you notice us?" Zhong Shan asked calmly.


    "When you were eating the Blood Bodhi," the old man''s grotesque face twisted into a frightening smile.


    At this moment, Tian Ling''er realized it wasn''t a ghost. Still in Zhong Shan''s arms, she turned to look at the man.


    "Sorry for disturbing you, senior. We will leave now," Zhong Shan said quickly, holding Tian Ling''er while slowly retreating.


    "I haven''t seen a living person for a hundred years. Can''t you keep mepany for a while?" The old man suddenly looked sorrowful.


    Seeing this, Tian Ling''er''s initial fear turned into pity. A hundred years without seeing another soul? How lonely must that be? Perhaps they should stay and talk to him.


    "Apologies, senior, but we have urgent matters outside. We wille back another time," Zhong Shan continued retreating, unwavering in his resolve despite the old man''s pitiful demeanor.


    As Zhong Shan persisted in leaving, the old man''s expression hardened, and with a re, Zhong Shan found himself unable to move.


    Zhong Shan watched in horror. He couldn''t move? What was happening? Did the old man use some kind of power? Tian Ling''er, too, seemed paralyzed, her eyes wide with disbelief.


    "I just want someone to talk to," the old man repeated.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er were lifted off the ground, slowly floating toward the old man.


    "Ah��what are you doing?" Tian Ling''er screamed.


    "Senior, we won''t leave. Please put us down," Zhong Shan pleaded.


    "Thud"


    The two fell not far from the old man.


    Seeing the old man''s formidable power, Zhong Shan knew he was facing an absolute powerhouse. With just a nce, the old man had immobilized both him and Ling''er.


    Cautiously, Zhong Shan put away hisrge knife into his storage bracelet, trying to show he meant no harm.


    As expected, the old man looked pleased with Zhong Shan''s gesture. But did Zhong Shan truly abandon resistance? No, putting away the knife was just a temporary measure; Zhong Shan was more cautious now than ever.


    "You used your divine sense to paralyze me? Even my father can''t do that. Are you stronger than him?" Tian Ling''er asked, scrambling up and looking at the old man.


    "Perhaps," the old man replied, a ghastly smile spreading across his withered face.

 Chapter 41: The Complexity of Human Hearts

    <h4>Chapter 41: The Complexity of Human Hearts</h4>


    ncing at the ck ice around the elder''s lower body, Tianling pointed and asked, "What''s happening to you?"


    The elder shook his head with a sigh.


    "What?" Tianling eximed in shock.


    "It''s impossible. My father said that if infected, death is certain. How... how..." Tianling pointed at the elder, looking utterly puzzled.


    "Your father hasn''t broken through the Yuanying stage yet," the elder said.


    "Oh, how do you know?" Tianling asked, looking clueless.


    "Haha," the elderughed heartily.


    "What about your hair?" Tianling noticed hisck of response and immediately asked again.


    "It''s attached to my primordial spirit. I haven''t had the ability to force it out yet, so I can only use the fire poison, fighting poison with poison, to barely survive," the elder sighed.


    "Fire poison from magma?" Tianling asked in amazement.


    As if he hadn''t spoken in ages, the elder became very talkative. Tianling asked, and he promptly answered, "Yes, it''s the fire poison from magma. However, too much fire poison, if it overwhelms and exceeds, I''ll be burnt alive by it. Now, I use my hair to control the absorption speed of the fire poison, slowly neutralizing it."


    Seeing the elder in such a pitiful state, Tianling''s face suddenly showed a hint of sorrow.


    "Have you neutralized it now? How long until you can get rid of it?" Tianling asked.


    "Get rid of it? A hundred years ago, the poison ice only spread to my knees," the elder sighed. Obviously, getting rid of it was impossible.


    "Really pitiful. Is there anything we can do to help you?" Tianling immediately showed a kind expression on her face.


    "Help me? Hehe, actually, it''s very simple for you to help me. Help me go out and find someone," the elder suddenly smiled.


    "Find someone? Yes, I''ll find my father. As long as I find my father, he will definitely save you," Tianling said immediately.


    "No, I don''t want someone who practices cultivation. Just find an ordinary person," the elder said lightly.


    "An ordinary person?" Tianling looked extremely puzzled.


    As for Zhongshan, although his expression was filled with confusion, he didn''t rx at all in his heart, staying alert at all times.


    "Yes, take this crystal. Let numerous ordinary people touch it. As long as someone touches it and makes the crystal glow, no matter what color light it emits, that person is the one. Bring him here, and he can save me," the elder took out a fist-sized transparent crystal from his storage space.


    Just as Tianling was about to reach out, Zhongshan snatched it before her, grabbing the round crystal.


    Seeing Zhongshan snatch it, the elder''s face showed a hint of surprise, while Tianling''s attention was drawn to the crystal.


    "Then, elder, let''s go find someone to save you," Zhongshan immediately pulled Tianling and said.


    "No," the elder suddenly frowned.


    "Huh?" Tianling looked at the elder strangely.


    "What if you two run away? Leave one person to apany me, and the other one goes out," the elder said very seriously.


    "Apany you?" Zhongshan frowned at the elder.


    Tianling suddenly looked indignant. "Why should I apany you?"


    "The outside is a deep valley. I know. You stay, and she goes," the elder suddenly pointed at Zhongshan.


    "Hey, we''ll definitelye back if we go out. Don''t worry," Tianling immediately protested.


    The elder shook his head, looked at Zhongshan, then at Tianling, and said softly, "If you''re unwilling, then stay with me. It''s been a long time since this old man had a conversation with someone."


    Seeing the stubborn elder, Zhongshan frowned, knowing that someone who had been repressed for a hundred years could be as twisted as an adult eunuch. If you opposed him, he could easily annihte you. In his mind, he often became very direct and ruthless.


    "Ling''er, you go out. When you''re out, go to the previous Bian City. Someone there will definitely receive you and help you find someone. Find the person and bring them here," Zhongshan said solemnly, handing the crystal to Tianling.


    Seeing Zhongshan cooperate like this, a hint of satisfaction appeared on the elder''s grotesque face, followed by a burst of excitement.


    Tianling gently took the crystal, her eyes filled with reluctance.


    But, just as Tianling grabbed the transparent crystal, it lit up, emitting a strong red light, so dazzling that it even obscured the light from the magma?


    The elder stared nkly at Tianling''s hand, while Zhongshan also looked at this scene in amazement, and Tianling looked incredulously at the crystal.


    "Away from the Ding''s body, away from the Ding''s body," the elder trembled. Excitement, intense excitement. Was the girl in front of him away from the Ding''s body? She was actually away from the Ding''s body?


    "Wow, it''s bright, it''s bright! There''s no need to go out. I can save you, but how can I save you?" Tianling''s initial excitement suddenly turned into confusion.


    Greed. In the elder''s eyes, Zhongshan suddenly burst out with a greedy look, and his gaze was fixed on Tianling.


    Not good!


    "Run!" Zhongshan pulled Tianling, takingrge strides towards the original cave, like a sharp arrow shooting away.


    Tianling was puzzled, her feet leaving the ground as she was pulled, experiencing immense pain in her wrists.


    "Hmph~~~" A cold snort came from behind. Zhongshan and Tianling, who were rushing out rapidly, were once again frozen in mid-air, their bodies twisted, facing the elder.


    "What are you going to do?" Tianling eximed in horror.


    "Weren''t you just going to help me?" The elder''s originally kind expression shed into a greedy and sinister one.


    "Help you? How can I help you?" Tianling saw the elder''s expression and became frightened, realizing that something was wrong.


    "It''s simple. I want your body. Away from the Ding''s body. As long as I possess your body, I will naturally be expelled by your body. Away from the Ding. It''s actually away from the Ding. What a pity. If I had seen you before I was poisoned, I would have definitely used you for alchemy. What a good physique," the elder first rejoiced, then his expression turned extremely regretful.


    "No, no! You''re a big viin, don''t!" Tianling eximed in fear.


    Possess her? Possess herself? At this moment, Tianling, though still naive, could see that the elder in front of her was not a good person. Was he going to obliterate her consciousness?


    "Elder," Zhongshan, whose body was frozen, spoke respectfully to the elder.


    The elder suddenly looked at Zhongshan, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes.


    "The fourth level of Innate? It''s really unexpected. With your aptitude, you actually reached the fourth level of Innate cultivation," the elder sneered.


    "Elder, we are from the Kaiyang Sect. This is the Sect Master''s daughter. Whatever kind of body you want, I can find it for you. Please don''t harm her," Zhongshan spoke up.


    "Kaiyang Sect?" The elder''s eyes narrowed.


    In the end, the elder shook his head. "If she wasn''t away from the Ding''s body, I could have given face to the Kaiyang Sect. But, being away from the Ding''s body, it''s a rare urrence in a thousand years. How could I bear to let her go? Since fate has brought you here, I''m sorry."


    With that, Tianling''s body gradually flew away from Zhongshan, ascending into the sky.


    Tianling watched this scene in horror. Was she going to be possessed? Terrified, tears finally streamed down her face.


    "Zhongshan, help me!" Tianling flew away from Zhongshan, crying out in fear.


    "Zhongshan, Zhongshan, save me!"


    "Save you? Just him?" A sneer appeared on the elder''s face.


    Zhongshan knew that if Tianling was possessed, it meant his death. The elder seemed wary of the Kaiyang Sect, clearly intending to kill to silence witnesses.


    Now, perhaps seeing Tianling''s extreme agitation, he didn''t kill Zhongshan immediately.


    Having figured everything out, Zhongshan made up his mind. His mental power surged frantically from his brow, rushing towards his arms at a crazy speed. Zhongshan needed one sessful attempt. Failure was not an option, only sess. Thus, the Red Phoenix Heaven Sutra was maximized.


    Heavenly Demon Tempering Body!


    "Ah~~~~~~~" Zhongshan roared, his body''s strength suddenly doubled, fiercely colliding with the restraining force.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~" He broke free.


    The elder also looked surprised at Zhongshan''s sudden breakthrough. Mental restraint consumed a tremendous amount of energy, and its strength varied ording to each person''s cultivation level. ording to the elder''s estimation, Zhongshan''s restraint was at the fifth level of Innate, which should have been impossible to break free from.


    Seeing Zhongshan break free, Tianling''s despairing heart trembled again. Looking at Zhongshan, a very strange emotion arose in her heart. Zhongshan seemed to be her destined savior, always able to rescue her.


    As Zhongshan broke free, arge sword suddenly appeared in his hand.


    Force Splitting Tian Shan!


    From afar, Zhongshan fiercely cleaved towards the elder, carrying with it a huge pink energy, venting towards the elder.


    "Hmph," the elder snorted coldly. Although his body moved slightly, invisibly, he once again restrained Zhongshan.


    The de stopped, but the pink energy seemed to not stop, continuing to rush towards the elder.


    The elder''s eyes narrowed, a hint of surprise shing in them because his all-powerful mental consciousness surprisingly failed to lock onto the pink energy? How could that be?


    "Whoosh," the pink energy directly surged into the elder''s body.


    Seeing this scene, the elder quickly activated his energy to resist the invasion of the pink energy. However, as the pink energy entered his body, it disappeared in an instant.


    Seeing this scene, the elder knew it was bad and quickly began searching inside his body.


    Zhongshan, seeing the Red Phoenix Mist enter the elder''s body, also felt a sense of relief. He hurriedly activated his energy to drive it.


    Arge amount of pink energy permeated out of his body, spreading in all directions.


    The second level of Red Phoenix Heavenly Shock, with much more mental power, coupled with the Heavenly Demon Tempering Body, it seemed that the true energy also surged greatly. The Red Phoenix Mist, arge amount of it, slowly enveloped the surroundings, invading in all directions.


    In just a moment, the entire interior tform, in all directions, waspletely filled with the Red Phoenix Mist.

 Chapter 42: Red Phoenix Flames

    <h4>Chapter 42: Red Phoenix mes</h4>


    "Hoo, hoo, hoo..."


    In the air, Tianling''s breath became rapid once again.


    Her body quickly writhed. Writhed?


    She could move?


    Tianling looked with joy at her wriggling arms. The restraining force weakened? It weakened?


    Tianling struggled hard and broke free. She actually broke through.


    On the other side, the elder''s face seemed to suddenly turn red, looking at Zhongshan with an incredulous expression.


    Tianling quickly rushed towards Zhongshan''s location, as Zhongshan was still imprisoned.


    As she ran towards Zhongshan, Tianling felt the temperature around her suddenly rise, bing hotter and hotter, so hot that it prated her heart. She wanted to take off her clothes, it was so hot!


    As the Red Phoenix Mist absorbed more, the expression on the elder''s face became more and more colorful��confusion? Perhaps a bit, but mostly it was fear, extreme fear. If it were at any other time, it wouldn''t have been a big deal, but now? How could this be happening? How could it be like this?


    The lower half of his body was trapped in ck ice, unable to move, but the elder also knew it was bad.


    His eyes red fiercely.


    "Pfft~~~~~"


    Zhongshan''s body flew backwards, and his entire chest seemed to cave in. He spat out a mouthful of blood and crashed into the mountain wall.


    Using mental consciousness alone, the elder had caused Zhongshan to suffer such an impact. This was also because Zhongshan, if he were an ordinary fourth-level Innate, would have died long ago.


    Struggling to lift his head, Zhongshan''s face revealed a hint of madness.


    "Hahaha!"


    The more Zhongshanughed, the more Red Phoenix Mist he created, and the more pink energy surged towards the elder. Because Zhongshan knew that if the elder could still restrain him, he would be in even greater danger. He had to confuse him. Once confused, he could save himself.


    His mental power had run out, but Zhongshan still urged on frantically.


    "Click."


    Zhongshan suddenly felt, at the moment when his mental power waspletely depleted, a cracking sound from the center of his brow space.


    He couldn''t summon any mental power anymore.


    But Zhongshan''s expression turned peculiar.


    Because he felt, at the center of his brow space, where the crack appeared, a tiny bit of pink light emerged.


    Fire? An infinitely small me?


    "Not endless, not broken, not broken, not born, not born, not me."


    zhongshan suddenly remembered a sentence from the Red Phoenix Scripture, the third level? The third level?


    Zhongshan incredulously felt his brow. The third level? Wasn''t that too exaggerated? The same twelve-level technique, the Tianmo Tempering Technique was still at the first level, while the Red Phoenix Scripture, after breaking through the second level not long ago, had already reached the third level? Heavens, are you ying tricks on me? With such poor aptitude, am I so talented in practicing aphrodisiacs?


    Zhongshan couldn''t move, and the Red Phoenix Scripture was also depleted. Although it had reached the third level, Zhongshan knew that he couldn''t urge it anymore. Moreover, after being ''seen'' by the elder, he was seriously injured. It was definitely the most powerful injury ever, as if every bone in his body was shattered, his chest, though not broken, was close to it, with tremendous force, terrifying force.


    Tianling saw Zhongshan being thrown backwards and chased after him in panic. When she caught up to Zhongshan, Zhongshan was recklessly activating the Red Phoenix Scripture. For a moment, Tianling was confused, hugging Zhongshan''s chest, feeling dazed.


    However, Zhongshan couldn''t move at this moment, he could only let Tianlingmit her ''beastly'' acts.


    On the other side, the elder''s mind finally became confused.


    What if his cultivation was high? The Red Phoenix Mist, the world''s number one aphrodisiac. The elder''s eyes were now bloodshot, even though his lower body was already frozen, his eyes were still bloodshot. It was like a eunuch who had eaten a bowl of aphrodisiac, extremely frenzied.


    His hair wildly twitched.


    "Ah~~~~~~"


    Unconsciously, the elder''s body began to writhe. His hair suddenly plunged into the magma, and the ck ice on his body suddenly surged, rising to his chest. It was absolute agony, but under this pain, he was still tormented by the world''s number one aphrodisiac. The elder gradually lost his reason, his hair plunged into the magma once again. And it crazily absorbed it.


    With a blurred consciousness and an impulsive demeanor, arge amount of fire poison was absorbed into the elder''s body in an instant.


    "Ah~~~~~~"


    The elder screamed in agony, the ck ice on his body disappeared,pletely disappeared, not a trace of ck remained. In exchange, his entire body was engulfed in endless mes, his entire body was enveloped in infinite mes.


    The elder flew up in pain.


    "Boom~~~~~~"


    The elder crashed into the mountain wall.


    With this impact, there was a deafening roar, and the entire interior shook, while below, the magma surged up like a huge wave.


    After hitting the mountain wall once, the elder''s body changed direction and mmed into another part of the mountain.


    "Boom~~~~~~"


    Zhongshan watched in horror.


    Was the cave going to copse? Was it going to be crushed by the elder?


    However, Zhongshany on the ground, unable to move, only able to tremble his arms. Meanwhile, Tianling was hugging him, constantly kissing and touching him, rubbing her face against his chest.


    Her soft body, like an octopus, entangled him, constantly wriggling against his body, but not knowing what to do next.


    In Zhongshan''s arms, Tianling was confused and didn''t know what to do. Now her face showed a crying expression again, constantly kissing Zhongshan''s lips, making sounds that were like crying and sobbing.


    This was torturous!


    Zhongshan''s face showed a rare bitter expression. How did it end up like this? The elder kept crashing into the walls, causingrge chunks of rocks to fall from above. The cave felt extremely dangerous, as if the entire mountain was about to copse at any moment.


    Unable to move, heavily injured, Zhongshan could only endure being continuously ''harassed'' by Tianling. Watching the soft and graceful figure in his arms, although still a bit green, any man would be unable to bear it, even with such serious injuries.


    Zhongshan now actually wished that he had also been affected by this world''s number one aphrodisiac. Perhaps if he were confused too, it would be a bit better. But the most headache-inducing thing was that this aphrodisiac was created by himself, and he was immune to it.


    He could only vomit blood while enduring Tianling''s harassment, unable to resist. In the end, he could only hold Tianling with trembling arms, telling her not to move.


    At the moment when Tianling was fixed in ce, Zhongshan saw it copse. The cave he came from, which had already felt on the verge of copse, finally copsed after being hit by the elder''s tremendous force over a dozen times. With a loud noise, everything copsed.


    Zhongshan struggled to retreat while holding Tianling. He had no choice but to retreat. Countless rocks fell from above, and only by hiding in a corner could he avoid being hit.


    "Plop~~~~~~"


    A ssh, and then silence. Everything was quiet.


    Zhongshan looked strangely at the central magma pool. The elder, that unparalleled hero, that absolute powerhouse, the one who could see through death with a nce, tragically fell into the confusion and dropped into the magma.


    Zhongshan looked dumbfounded as the elder fell. He struggled for a moment in the magma, but then there was no sound.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan finally felt safe for the time being.


    He looked down at the dazed Tianling. Her clothes had been torn in the chaos, revealing the bright red lingerie with small floral patterns inside. The two lively little white rabbits on her chest also popped out and pressed against Zhongshan''s chest. Zhongshan''s clothes were also torn off by Tianling, mostly.


    A wry smile appeared on Zhongshan''s face.


    The Red Phoenix mes in his brow were rapidly flickering, quickly absorbing the surrounding Red Phoenix Mist, as well as the Red Phoenix Mist inside Tianling''s body. This was the second time, and Zhongshan couldn''t help but smile bitterly in his heart.


    Tianling? Zhongshan shook his head, a strange expression on his face, with a hint of affection and a hint of affection, but only a hint, much less than the faith in his heart.


    Soon, all the Red Phoenix Mist in the magma cave was sucked back.


    In the center of his brow, the cluster of mes had also expanded a lot.


    Tianling fell asleep again, exhausted. Watching Tianling fall asleep after taking advantage of him, Zhongshan smiled bitterly. What was this all about?

 Chapter 43 - 43 Trapped

    <h4>Chapter 43: Trapped</h4>


    With heavy injuries weighing him down, unable to move, only a slight tremble in his arms.


    In a swift motion, he retrieves a blood bodhi from his pocket. Just as Tianling said, the blood bodhi is a healing elixir that should alleviate his injuries.


    With great difficulty, he ces the blood bodhi into his mouth.


    Gently swallowing, indeed, the blood bodhi transforms into a surge of intense heat, swiftly filling his entire body. Now at the fourth level of innate strength, he can naturally resist the energy of the blood bodhi. Once able to resist, he feels that the fiery energy is not as aggressive as before, as if continuously nurturing his body.


    After an hour, just an hour, his body has significantly improved. The sunken chest haspletely recovered, except for Tianling who still lies asleep on his chest.


    With a bitter smile, Zhongshan gently sits up, adjusting Tianling''s position. Tianling''s clothes are now disheveled, her chest exposed, the two snow-white mounds yfully bouncing in the air.


    Zhongshan shakes his head, gently covering her up, to prevent any embarrassment when she wakes upter.


    However, during this process, his fingers unavoidably brush against her, causing Zhongshan''s old face to blush unconsciously.


    Finally, after burning incense, he finishes tidying Tianling''s clothes, then looks at his own attire.


    His clothes have been torn to shreds by Tianling.


    Shaking his head, Zhongshan props Tianling against arge rock. Lying back.


    Gently rising, he tears off his clothes and tosses them into the magma pool, standing there naked. He retrieves another set of clothes from his storage bracelet and slowly dresses.


    Although Tianling hasn''t woken up yet, when Zhongshan props her against the rock, she stirs as if waking from a dream, a very embarrassing dream. Tianling dreamed that she had stripped herself, then stripped Zhongshan, and then hugged and kissed him.


    Upon waking, Tianling''s face flushes red. "Why did I dream of such a thing? What happened before?" Suddenly, Tianling seems to recall.


    She remembers Zhongshan crashing into the wall, getting injured, and then she threw herself at him, not only failing to save him but also tearing off his clothes, even her own, and even kissing his chest. With this realization, Tianling ispletely stunned.


    "No, no, how could I do such a thing? It must have been a dream, yes, it was a dream, it must have been a dream."


    Tianling keeps reassuring herself.


    While she continues to hypnotize herself, suddenly, Tianling hears a strange sound.


    "Rip~~~"


    It sounds like clothes being torn. Rip, rip, rip.


    A series of sounds finally make Tianling open her eyes, curiously looking in the direction of the sound.


    At a nce, she sees Zhongshan with his back to her, naked, tossing his torn clothes into the magma pool.


    Seeing this scene, Tianling is dumbfounded. Her little mouth opens, almost screaming. Then immediately shuts her eyes tight.


    "I didn''t see anything, I didn''t see anything, I didn''t see anything." Tianling keeps chanting to herself.


    But when she hears Zhongshan''s sporadic clothing sounds, for some reason, Tianling, even to herself, unclear why, opens her eyes slightly, squinting to see Zhongshan''s body not far away.


    "Zhongshan''s body looks so good!" Unconsciously, a thought pops into Tianling''s mind.


    As soon as she thought about it, Tianling''s face flushed, quickly closing her eyes. How could this happen? She mustn''t look, she mustn''t look, Tianling tightly shut her eyes.


    Zhongshan quickly dressed himself. Turning around, he happened to see Tianling with her eyes tightly shut. Zhongshan was speechless for a moment; her eyes were shut so tightly that wrinkles appeared. Did this fool not realize she was awake?


    "When did you wake up?" Zhongshan asked.


    "I didn''t see anything, I didn''t see anything," Tianling immediately replied.


    Watching Tianling, Zhongshan was once again rendered speechless. A strange feeling filled his heart as he thought back to Tianling''s rascally behavior earlier. Zhongshan could only shake his head helplessly.


    "Alright, I understand, you didn''t see anything."


    Gently opening her eyes and seeing Zhongshan''s smile, Tianling quickly said, "I didn''t see anything." But her tone was much weaker.


    "Well, my injuries aren''t fully healed yet. I''ll meditate for a bit. You go change your clothes," Zhongshan said.


    With that, Zhongshan found a corner and sat down cross-legged to meditate.


    It was only then that the still dazed Tianling realized her clothes were also in a state of disarray.


    "Oh, how did this happen?" Tianling eximed in shock.


    "Just got torn during the fight on the ground," Zhongshan said, before closing his eyes to meditate.


    Was he going to say he tore them himself? Zhongshan certainly wouldn''t say that.


    Tianling didn''t bother looking for the old man either. She quickly found a corner to avoid Zhongshan''s gaze, took out a set of clothes, and changed.


    As Zhongshan meditated once again, after half an hour, he woke up. There was still some pain in his body, but overall, he felt much better. Opening his eyes, he saw Tianling looking anxious.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhongshan asked as he got up.


    "Zhongshan, what happened when I was unconscious? What about that old man? Also, ourst way out is blocked. The cave ispletely sealed. What do we do?" Tianling asked worriedly.


    "That old man? He identally jumped into the magma and died," Zhongshan said with a hint of disbelief. Yes, that old man''s death was quite unfortunate. Jumped into the magma? Even Zhongshan couldn''t help but break into a cold sweat at the thought.


    "He fell in?" Tianling immediately looked towards the magma.


    Zhongshan also came over to take a look. Upon seeing it, Zhongshan''s eyes suddenly lit up. What was that?


    The old man fell in and was already dead, beyond dead even, his remainspletely gone. Even with his formidable cultivation, in his confusion, he wouldn''t have had any protective measures. Falling into magma, wouldn''t he have been incinerated?


    However, amidst the magma where the old man fell, there was now a floating piece of paper.


    A piece of paper? How could it survive in the magma?


    Tianling waved her hand, and with a slight suction, the paper, along with a clump of magma, floated ashore.


    As itnded at Zhongshan''s feet, arge amount of magma sshed.


    After the magma dried, Zhongshan dared to pick it up gently. Tianling also came over to take a look. On the peculiar paper, there were some tiny characters written.


    Fourth-grade pill form: Rampage Pill.


    This was the top line of words. Below it were arge number of medicinal ingredients and the method of refining.


    "Fourth-grade pill?" Tianling eximed in astonishment.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "What kind of paper is this? It''s not even damaged by magma. Although the Rampage Pill form is scarce, it shouldn''t be this oundish. I think the value of this paper exceeds that of the pill form. It''s really extravagant," Tianling shook her head andmented continuously.


    Watching Tianling''s behavior, Zhongshan couldn''t help but chuckle. He gently took it and put it away.


    A fourth-grade pill form, using such good paper, might have unexpected effects.


    As for Tianling, seeing Zhongshan put away the pill form, she didn''t say much. She just spat a few times towards where the old man had fallen, still harboring some resentment.


    "Zhongshan, how do we get out? The cave copsed, we can''t get out," Tianling showed her anxiety again.


    Zhongshan walked over to take a look and sure enough, the cave hadpletely copsed. There was no way out. With a depth of over a thousand meters, even if they could climb up, it would be thousands of meters away. Zhongshan was speechless.


    Now, it seemed impossible to return the way they came.


    What to do? Zhongshan looked around and found no other exit, only the passage leading directly above the magma pool, a pathway to the volcano''s mouth.


    Zhongshan looked up.


    A kilometer, no, three kilometers. From this opening upwards, it would be at least three kilometers, and the walls were extremely smooth and hard. How could they ascend like this?


    The bottom waspletely blocked. There was only this three-kilometer straight passage.


    "Ling''er, do you still have your red silk? Can it carry you?" Zhongshan asked.


    "The red silk is broken, it needs to be repaired. It will take at least two months. After two months, it can carry me alone, but can we hold out for two months?" Tianling looked distressed.


    Seeing Tianling like this, Zhongshan felt helpless. He quickly checked his own food, then Tianling''s food and water. In the end, he could only reluctantlye to a conclusion: one month, at most one month. The food and water could onlyst for one month, and Tianling needed two months to go out.


    What to do?


    "By the way, did your father give you any self-rescue items?" Zhongshan asked with a frown.


    "He gave me some powerful treasures, like the jade talisman from that day, but there''s nothing for flying. What do we do if we can''t fly out? Zhongshan, are we going to die here?" Tianling immediately became anxious.


    "I''ll think about it, I''ll think about it," Zhongshan pondered, wondering what to do.


    We can''t fly up, can we? Fly? Hot air balloon, make a hot air balloon? Forget it, although the temperature here is very high, and hot air rises, but how can we make a hot air balloon now? Besides, even if there were one, with the cave sealed, the air inside would be thinner and thinner. Even if there were a hot air balloon, it wouldn''t be able to fly up.


    Heat? Thin air?


    Thinking of this, Zhongshan''s eyes suddenly lit up, a bold idea surging into his mind.


    "Zhongshan, do you have a solution?" Tianling seemed to have a blind admiration for Zhongshan now. As Zhongshan''s expression changed, she immediately became excited, quickly asking.


    "Wait a moment, let me think," Zhongshan said with excitement, repeatedly thinking about that crazy idea in his mind.


    "Okay," Tianling immediately nodded eagerly, patiently watching.


    Finally, after repeatedly deliberating, Zhongshan was sure it could work. He breathed a sigh of relief.


    "How is it?" Tianling immediately asked eagerly.


    "My injuries haven''t healed yet. Tomorrow, I''ll take you out," Zhongshan smiled mysteriously, teasingly.

 Chapter 44: Soaring Upwards

    <h4>Chapter 44: Soaring Upwards</h4>


    Resting for a day, Zhongshan''s injuries werepletely healed, even the lingering effects of the Demonic Body Tempering Technique had disappeared.


    But in just one day, due to the cave entrance being blocked earlier, the internal temperature had risen sharply, and the air had be increasingly thin. Tianling''s face was already flushed red, panting heavily. Perhaps, even with two months'' worth of food, they wouldn''tst until that day.


    "Zhongshan, is there any way? Hurry up," Tianling urged anxiously.


    Looking at Tianling, Zhongshan shook his head and smiled, saying, "Do as I say."


    "Mm-hmm," Tianling nodded immediately, as if quickly agreeing.


    "How long can your red silk extend at most?" Zhongshan asked.


    "It''s damaged now, so it can only extend up to a hundred meters at most, and it can''t fly either," Tianling shook her head.


    "A hundred meters? That''s enough," Zhongshan nodded.


    "Huh?" Tianling looked at Zhongshan strangely, not understanding the connection between Zhongshan''s n and her damaged red silk.


    "Tie the red silk around my waist. I''ll climb up and take a look at the passage. If I fall, quickly pull me ashore to avoid falling into the magma," Zhongshan said calmly, staring at Tianling.


    "Zhongshan, you''re not asking me to climb up with you, are you? It''s so high, can this red silk handle it?" Tianling immediately asked.


    "Who said you have to climb? Listen to me, okay?" Zhongshan said solemnly again.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s serious tone, Tianling couldn''t help but nod involuntarily.


    "Mm." Zhongshan nodded in satisfaction.


    Then, Tianling took out the red silk and tied one end around Zhongshan''s waist, holding the other end in her hand.


    Zhongshan hugged the mountain wall and slowly climbed upward. Gradually, his body even turned upside down. However, Zhongshan always used his five fingers to dig five holes in the rocks to borrow strength before continuing to climb upside down.


    The interior of the cave was curved, like the inside of a bottle. Zhongshan slowly climbed upward.


    When the slope changed from hanging upside down to vertical, Zhongshan sighed deeply.


    Below was the rolling magma, and as long as he fell identally, even the current Zhongshan wouldn''t leave behind anything but ashes.


    Feeling the scorching heat, Zhongshan continued to climb vertically. The vertical rock wall seemed even harder, requiring all his strength to dig holes.


    Finally, after climbing another three meters vertically, Zhongshan saw what he was looking for: mist, no, it should be water vapor. Arge amount of water vapor evaporated from a certain location, forming clouds and rising.


    He climbed carefully.


    "Hiss."


    As Zhongshan''s foot slipped, he lost his bnce, his ten fingers tightly gripping the hole. That was close; he almost fell. Although Tianling was there, if anything unexpected happened, it would be disastrous. With fear gripping his heart, he became even more cautious with his footing.


    After climbing about ten meters, surpassing the underground wateryer, Zhongshan reached the dry rock area where there was no underground water anymore. One hand held onto the hole in the rock while the other hand took out arge knife and began to dig.


    Zhongshan carved a deep hole in the rock wall and then turned in a circle along the rock wall, digging out a circr groove on a t surface. He then put away the knife and took out arge number of stones from his storage bracelet, slowly inserting them into the groove, leaving most of them exposed.


    This reduced the diameter of that spot by about half a meter.


    Zhongshan estimated that the diameter was still five meters, a huge passage five meters wide leading upwards.


    Carefully retracing his steps, Zhongshan returned to the previous cave, looking at Tianling with a slight smile.


    "How did it go? What were you doing up there? Are you building steps slowly up to the top?" Tianling asked worriedly.


    Shaking his head, Zhongshan didn''t answer. He just smiled faintly and began to search inside the cave. Slowly, he found arge stone, six meters in diameter. Zhongshan lifted his knife and started chipping away at therge stone. The method he had practiced for cutting patterns before was now showing its effect here. In no time, therge stone was shaped into a disc-like oval.


    "Tianling, tie thisrge stone to my back. I''ll go up again," Zhongshan said.


    "Huh? You''re taking thisrge stone up?" Tianling asked strangely.


    "Mm," Zhongshan nodded.


    "Then you go up first. Later, when you''re tied to the red silk, you can hoist it up. Isn''t that fine?" Tianling suggested, feeling pleased with herself, as if she had thought of a problem that Zhongshan hadn''t considered.


    "What if I fall?" Zhongshan shook his head andughed.


    After Zhongshan finished speaking, Tianling''s smile froze. That''s right, what if therge stone fell while being hoisted up? That would be disastrous.


    Shaking his head, Zhongshan smiled and tied therge stone to his back with the red silk. Although it made his movements a bit more difficult, Zhongshan was not afraid of the weight.


    Retracing his steps, Zhongshan returned to the ce where he had inserted the stones. Carefully, he lifted therge stone upright and then ced it gently down, resting it on the protruding stones, covering most of the hole.


    With therge stone sliding into the groove, Zhongshan climbed inside it and found it just right.


    Sitting in the hollow of therge stone, Zhongshan held onto the hole in the rock wall with one hand and grabbed the red silk with the other, calling out, "Tianling, tie the red silk around your waist and climb up like I did just now."


    "Mm,ing." Tianling eximed excitedly. She had been itching to climb after watching Zhongshan climb earlier.


    Quickly tying the red silk around her waist, Tianling followed Zhongshan''s example, gripping the hole in the rock wall and climbing up. It seemed fun, but in reality, it was incredibly difficult and thrilling.


    Tianling gritted her teeth and climbed slowly.


    Zhongshan also slowly retracted the red silk.


    When they reached the underground water formation, perhaps due to the water vapor, that spot was particrly slippery.


    "Ouch, ahhhh..."


    Tianling''s slip sent her into a panic, and she let out a piercing scream as she fell. Dead? Below was the magma, and Tianling was frozen with fear. "Snap!" The red silk caught Tianling just in time. Suspended above the magma, Tianling was so terrified that she was almost paralyzed.


    "Don''t sway,e up quickly," Zhongshan called from above. This swinging back and forth felt like being on a swing!


    "Okay okay," Tianling immediately snapped out of her daze, grabbing the red silk and climbing up quickly.


    Once she reached the hollow of therge stone, Tianling copsed with a trembling heart. "You scared me to death, scared me to death," she kept patting her chest in fear. It had been a close call; if not for the red silk, she would''ve been done for.


    Seeing Tianling like this, Zhongshan smiled faintly. "Are you alright? We''re about to leave," he said.


    "Leave?" Tianling looked up at the three thousand meters above. How could they leave?


    "This time, I''ll fly you out," Zhongshan said confidently.


    "Fly?" Tianling eximed in astonishment.


    "Get ready, lie down and hold onto the red silk. I''ll be up in a moment," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Mm," although Tianling didn''t understand what was happening, she followed Zhongshan''s instructions.


    Hanging his body, Zhongshan looked down at the magma below, swallowing hard. It would definitely work.


    In a swift motion, he drew hisrge knife and looked around at the rock walls, all covered in water vapor.


    Zhongshan exerted his strength and swung his knife forcefully at the nearby rock wall.


    "Boom!"


    A loud noise echoed as the rock wall shattered.


    Without hesitation, Zhongshan swiftly swung his knife in another direction.


    "Boom, boom, boom!"


    With rapid strikes, the rock wall surrounding the underground wateryer quickly copsed, and arge amount of underground water gushed out from the cracked rock wall.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan put away his knife and quickly climbed to the top of therge stone.


    "What are you doing, Zhongshan?" Tianling asked in surprise.


    Looking at Tianling sitting there, Zhongshan widened his eyes, hugged Tianling tightly, and pressed her into the hollow of the stone.


    Holding her tightly, Zhongshan pressed himself against her, leaving no gap between their bodies.


    Caught off guard by Zhongshan''s sudden attack, Tianling''s eyes widened in disbelief. What was Zhongshan doing?


    Just as Tianling was about to resist Zhongshan''s "outrageous" behavior, suddenly:


    "Boom!"


    A tremendous explosion came from below.


    A vast amount of underground water rushed toward the huge magma pool below. While a small amount could turn into water vapor, this much water was beyond that capacity.


    Roaring into the magma pool, most of the water evaporated upon contact with the magma, turning into gas.


    In an instant, therge amount of underground water turned into gas.


    Thousands of times its original volume, in an instant, the bottom of the cave turned into what seemed like a giant air cannon.


    A huge st of air surged upwards.


    "Boom!"


    Therge stone Zhongshan was on soared into the sky, propelled by the massive airflow. The heavy stone seemed like a bullet, ascending at a crazy speed.


    Just as Tianling was about to resist Zhongshan''s "outrageous" behavior, suddenly, a loud noise came from below. Then, Tianling felt therge stone behind her suddenly rush towards her. It pressed against her and Zhongshan, squeezing their bodies together even more tightly, as if the force was trying to merge them into one.


    Flying? Therge stone was flying? Therge stone was carrying us away? Tianling was stunned by this moment. Could Zhongshan really fly us out?


    Then, Tianling blushed at their current position. Because the two of them were pressed chest to chest, it seemed like they were about to be one.

 Chapter 45: Prince Hao San

    <h4>Chapter 45: Prince Hao San</h4>


    In the depths of Zhong Mountain, there was little time for the two to savor the tranquility of the moment. Hands tightly gripping onto therge stone, Zhong Shan pressed close to Tian Ling''er.


    The back of the massive stone had been shaped by Zhong Shan into a convex form, smooth beyondpare, designed to withstand the tremendous force without shattering. And it seeded; at first, there was no fracturing, and henceforth, there would be none.


    eleration, eleration��therge stone carried the two swiftly upwards. Yet, amidst the eleration, the two gradually adapted.


    Tian Ling''er found herself pressed beneath Zhong Shan, her face flushing crimson as if afraid to open her eyes.


    Slowly, the pressure from the stone against their backs lessened.


    "Zhong Shan, you can let go now," Tian Ling''er whispered softly.


    But Zhong Shan paid no heed, for he knew that the most dangerous and crucial moment was imminent. Because next, as the eleration slowed to a certain extent, it would be time for him to detach from therge stone and fly out.


    He must remain firmly attached to the stone.


    Zhong Shan clung to therge stone, holding Tian Ling''er even tighter.


    Seeing Zhong Shan ignoring her words and tightening his embrace instead, Tian Ling''er''s face grew even redder, a mixture of embarrassment and frustration. Although she knew it was inappropriate at the moment, inexplicably, she didn''t feel repulsed by Zhong Shan''s embrace. Instead, she allowed herself to be held tightly by him.


    Finally, thest hint of pressure from therge stone vanished, reced by the sensation of their bodies separating from it and soaring into the sky.


    Tian Ling''er marveled at the scene. Previously, it was therge stone below that had squeezed her into Zhong Shan''s body, but now it seemed as if Zhong Shan was fixed in ce, while she was being squeezed into him.


    At this moment, Tian Ling''er finally understood why Zhong Shan didn''t let go. She looked at Zhong Shan with admiration, realizing that it seemed like nothing in the world could stop him. Zhong Shan was truly remarkable, almost miraculous.


    "Phew."


    Three thousand meters above the volcano''s crater, arge stone flew out amidst the billowing clouds of gas.


    We''re out, we''re saved!


    At that moment, both Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er felt the urge to shout out loud. The air outside was simply wonderful, no, it was beyond wonderful.


    They took a deep breath.


    Flying thirty meters high, therge stone suddenly stopped in mid-air and began to plummet downwards.


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Tian Ling''er screamed in horror.


    "Bang~~~~~~~~~~"


    Therge stonended on the edge of the volcano''s crater and quickly slid down towards the foot of the mountain.


    "Whoosh whoosh whoosh~~~~~~~~~~"


    The bottom of therge stone was smooth, causing it to slide rapidly, but the mountain path was rugged, causing it to shake violently. Even though Tian Ling''er was held tightly in Zhong Shan''s arms, she couldn''t bear the sensation.


    Finally, the long descent down the mountain ended.


    "Bang."


    Therge stone finally came to a stop in a quiet valley.


    After the rough journey, with Tian Ling''er pressed beneath him, Zhong Shan felt like his entire body was falling apart.


    Zhong Shan gently got up and looked at Tian Ling''er, asking, "How are you? Are you okay?"


    "I-I''m fine," Tian Ling''er replied, her voice slightly stuttering.


    "Very well, rest for a while, and then I''ll take you to see our eldest senior brother," Zhong Shan said. His character was one ofmitment; once he made a promise, he would see it through. He had agreed to bring Tian Ling''er to see their eldest senior brother, and he would do so, but he also had his responsibilities. The visit would be brief, merely a chance for Tian Ling''er to meet him. If she didn''t want to leave, Zhong Shan would stay by her side.


    He had previously promised Tian Xingzi that he would bring Tian Ling''er back intact. ''Intact'' meant more than just physically unharmed; it included preserving her purity. Not a single mistake could be allowed.


    A monthter, deep within the mountains, they arrived at a peculiar ce. It was a hill, not particrly high, but shrouded in a dense white mist. The mist was unnatural and abrupt, clearly the result of an array set up around the perimeter.


    Surrounding this mist-covered hill were many taller mountains, forming a circle around it, resembling a gigantic arena with the mist-covered hill at its center, like a stage draped with curtains.


    On the peaks of these surrounding mountains stood groups of people, scattered in threes and fours, each belonging to different factions. They all watched the mist-covered hill intently, none daring to rush in, patiently waiting.


    On a peak to the north stood members of the Kaiyang Sect. At the forefront were their second-generation senior brother Tiankiller and third senior sister Bei Qingsi. Eight others stood behind them, merely acting as advisors without making decisions.


    "Sister, what do you think?" Tiankiller asked, a trace of admiration shing in his eyes as he looked at Bei Qingsi.


    "Qingsi has no opinion and will follow senior brother''s lead," Bei Qingsi replied calmly, her eyes fixed on the mist-covered hill, paying no heed to Tiankiller. She clearly felt nothing for his admiration.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi''s indifferent expression, Tiankiller frowned and said no more, turning his gaze back to the mist-covered hill.


    To the east, atop another high peak, one of the best vantage points, stood another group of people, about twenty in total, led by an exceptionally noble-looking woman.


    The woman was tall with slender, graceful legs d in ck silk. Even without seeing her face, one would feel their heart skip a beat. Her face exuded confidence and elegance, her eyes brimming with pride��not the vulgar kind that looks down on everything, but a self-assured and noble aura that radiated naturally.


    "Mr. Shuijing, Hao San is right before us. What do you suggest we do?" the woman turned and asked a man behind her with a smile.


    The man appeared to be around forty years old, dressed in a spotless white robe, his demeanor schrly and handsome. He smiled slightly, a look that could captivate countless young women��a quintessential mature gentleman.


    He held a white feather fan, gently fanning himself with an air of calm and strategic mastery.


    Hearing the woman''s question, Mr. Shuijing smiled faintly, "Princess, you already have a n. Why ask me?"


    "Qianyou, I will go down now and capture Hao San for you," a handsome young man beside her said eagerly.


    Seeing the young man''s impatience, Princess Qianyou frowned, displeased, "With so many people watching, wouldn''t you make a fool of yourself rushing down like that? Besides, do you think Hao San is an idiot?"


    Chastised by the princess, the young man looked disgruntled, ring at the distant mist-covered hill.


    "Your Highness, patience is needed to catch a big fish," Mr. Shuijing said with a smile.


    "Mind your own business! I''m talking to Qianyou; when is it your ce to interrupt?" the young man snapped at Mr. Shuijing, seeming to me him for the princess''s rebuke.


    "Gulin, stop it! How dare you speak to Mr. Shuijing like that?" Princess Qianyou immediately scolded.


    At this moment, Mr. Shuijing felt a wave of awkwardness wash over him.


    "He''s my father''s subordinate, isn''t that right?" Gulin said immediately.


    Princess Qianyou looked at Gulin with disdain. "Mr. Shuijing is someone I managed to invite with great difficulty. If you continue to speak to him like this, I will send you back at once. Do not follow me anymore."


    "Fine, fine, I won''t say anything else," Gulin quickly reassured Princess Qianyou, though his eyes shed with resentment as he nced at Mr. Shuijing.


    Seeing Gulin''s reaction, Mr. Shuijing merely smiled, his bright eyes betraying no emotion.


    Princess Qianyou, noticing Gulin''s quickpliance, frowned but said nothing more. She turned her attention back to the distant mist-covered hill.


    The hill, shrouded in thick mist on all sides, had a clear center. The summit was t, as if sliced off by a powerful being long ago. Grass and trees had grown over it, indicating the passage of time.


    Atop this hill stood a temple. In front of the temple was a vast square. Two people upied this square.


    One was a man dressed in ck, appearing to be around fifty years old, holding a horsetail whisk. He knelt on the ground, his face filled with worry and fear.


    "Third Prince, please, no more. You''ve already eaten the fiftieth pill. If you eat another, it will be the end. We cannot let the Hao family lineage be cut off," the man in ck pleaded with a look of panic.


    In front of him was a man in white luxurious robes, his handsome face framed by long hair, mostly white with a few remaining ck strands. This was Hao San, the man everyone was searching for.


    "Old Wei, what would a eunuch like you understand?" Hao San said with a bitter smile.


    "Third Prince, Old Wei and Old Zhao have served you for many years. Now, the Hao family has only you left. If you die, how will we avenge our past grievances? How will we revive the Hao family? Third Prince, you must stop," the eunuch Old Wei implored.


    Hao San looked at Old Wei and smiled bitterly. "Thest descendant? Ha! Look outside. Do you think they will spare us? They want to eradicate us. We''re doomed anyway. But you have been dragged into this as well."


    "Third Prince, Old Wei was born a servant of the Hao family and will die as one. Serving you is my greatest fortune; I do not fear death," Old Wei said earnestly.


    Hao San gazed at the elderly eunuch, feeling a deep sense of gratitude. "Old Wei, we cannot escape this disaster, but don''t worry. The Hao family will not end with my death. I have already left a bloodline behind, sent into the Dragon Pce. In the Dragon Pce, he will survive. Let my death draw all the attention, giving him a chance to live," Hao San said with determination.


    "Really, is that true?" Old Wei''s joy was palpable, as if the bloodline were his own.


    "Yes, in the Dragon Pce, his safety is assured. Bring me the ''Heaven Mending Pill''," Hao San instructed immediately.

 Chapter 46: The Horned Dragon

    <h4>Chapter 46: The Horned Dragon</h4>


    "There are only two Heaven Mending Pills left," Old Wei said softly, flipping his hand to retrieve two white jade bottles from his storage bracelet.


    Staring at the intricately carved bottles, Hao San''s face was filled with a sense of tragic determination. Gently taking one, he examined it closely and said, "This is enough. With these two pills, we can make the final summoning."


    Opening the small bottle, Hao San brought it to his lips. Slowly, a thick, milky-white liquid began to drip out. It was so viscous that as it flowed, it seemed to pull the entire contents of the bottle with it, forming a single droplet that dropped into Hao San''s mouth.


    He closed his mouth and swallowed, then casually tossed the empty bottle away. Suddenly, his face contorted in pain, his eyes bulging as if they might pop out. His entire body began to emit thick white mist, gradually enveloping himpletely.


    Standing nearby, Old Wei''s face mirrored Hao San''s tragic determination.


    After the time it takes to burn an incense stick, the mist dissipated, revealing Hao San. He had endured immense pain, evident in the lingering grimace on his face. As he straightened up, his expression returned to normal. His energy and spirit seemed renewed, his eyes shining brighter. His once mostly white hair had turned jet-ck again.


    "Third Prince," Old Wei called out, looking at Hao San.


    "Old Wei, stand back," Hao San instructed.


    "Yes, sir." Old Wei immediately stepped behind Hao San.


    Hao San took a deep breath and began to mutter something under his breath. As he chanted, his entire right hand turned pitch ck, slowly emitting tendrils of ck smoke.


    After two breaths, Hao San''s eyes widened, and his ckened hand mmed onto the ground as he shouted, "Da Hong,e out!"


    With a roar, his ckened hand pressed into the earth. The smoke from his hand spread out like nine ck dragon-like tendrils, covering a thirty-meter diameter around Hao San. The nine ck dragons seemed like inky ck holes, marking the ground as if connecting to a distant ce.


    Suddenly, the area covered by the nine ck dragons was filled with numerous ck runes, transforming the ground into a ck altar.


    "Boom!"


    The ck altar erupted with dense ck smoke, enveloping the entire area in a hemispherical dome.


    Old Wei watched anxiously from the periphery, his heart filled with concern.


    "Whoosh!"


    Abruptly, the ck smoke vanished as if it had been magically disintegrated. The altar disappeared, revealing Hao San once more. His hair had turned white again, with only a few strands of ck remaining, even fewer than before he had taken the Heaven Mending Pill.


    Hao San''s body wavered, barely able to stand. Old Wei rushed forward to support him, his face etched with worry.


    Despite his extreme weakness, Hao San''s face disyed a rare joy. Before him stood a colossal creature��a massive, crimson serpent, thirty meters long. Its mouth could easily swallow two people at once. The serpent raised its head, flicking its tail slightly, its tongue darting out as it looked at Hao San.


    This was the crimson snake that Hao San had just summoned. As soon as it emerged, the snake slowly lowered its head and nuzzled against Hao San''s arm.


    Seeing the snake''s friendly gesture, Hao San smiled slightly and, with Old Wei''s support, stood up and gently petted the snake''s head.


    "Da Hong, hehe, this might be thest time we meet. I''m about to die," Hao San said sadly.


    The snake looked at Hao San, seemingly understanding his words, and wriggled its body as if protesting his death.


    "It''s no use. This time is different from before. I''m definitely going to die. You''ve been with me for decades, always by my side. Among the Dragon Pce lineage, you''re the only one I trust because you''re my best friend," Hao San said, stroking the snake''s head.


    The crimson snake kept flicking its tongue, sensing the impending tragedy.


    Looking at Da Hong, Hao San sighed and said, "Your strength is at most equivalent to a human at the Golden Core stage. There are many strong enemies outside who want to kill me. You can''t save me. This time, I summoned you to help deliver something to the Dragon Pce and eventually to myst surviving bloodline."


    The snake shook its head, continuously flicking its tongue.


    Gently, Hao San took out a small wooden box made of peach wood. The box was intricately carved, resembling an invaluable work of art.


    "I trust only you because you''re my best friend. There''s no contractual or interest-based rtionship between us. Da Hong, this is myst request. Take this peach wood box to my descendant," Hao San said with tragic determination.


    The snake looked at Hao San, and tears began to flow from its eyes. It opened its mouth and swallowed the peach wood box. Then it nuzzled against Hao San again.


    Looking at the snake, Hao San forced a bitter smile and said, "Earlier, I summoned fifty of yourpanions. They''re in the rear courtyard. Go greet them. Later, as I instructed, you all should escape."


    The snake circled Hao San, coiling around him and lightly touching his face with its tongue before uncoiling and slithering towards the back of the temple. In the rear courtyard were fifty morerge snakes, each varying in color.


    In the front courtyard of the temple, only Hao San and Old Wei remained.


    Old Wei quickly moved forward to support Hao San.


    "Third Prince," Old Wei called out, full of worry.


    "Old Wei, give me thest Heaven Mending Pill," Hao San said.


    Old Wei, his face full of sorrow, took out thest bottle.


    As before, Hao San swallowed the pill and quickly regained his peak condition. His hair turned ck once more.


    Standing firmly, Hao San looked at Old Wei and said, "Old Wei, stand back."


    Old Wei, with tears streaming down his face, retreated to a distant spot.


    Just as before, Hao San began the summoning ritual. After chanting a series of incantations, he shouted, "With my lifespan, I summon the Dragon General!"


    Hao San shouted again, pressing his hand onto the ground. Just like before, a ck altar emerged from his hand and pressed onto the earth. However, this altar was five timesrger than the previous one, with a diameter of 150 meters. It seemed like this mysterious altar could transport creatures from distant ces to this very spot.


    A ck hemispherical smoke zone reappeared, instantly shrouding the entire za. As the ck smoke dissipated, Hao San was revealed inside.


    At this moment, Hao San''s hair had turnedpletely white, without a single strand of ck remaining. He looked much older, with a hint of intense madness in his eyes.


    "Third Prince," Old Wei quickly stepped forward to support the weakened Hao San. He swiftly put some pills into Hao San''s mouth. Though these pills were not as potent as the Heaven Mending Pill, they helped Hao San recover quickly. He stood up, and although his hair did not turn ck again, his spirit improved significantly.


    Before them was a massive serpent, no, a dragon with only one horn, like a giant de pointing skyward. Its entire body was covered with countless scales.


    It was a horned dragon (Qiu Long)!


    The horned dragon was about 150 meters long, upying the entire za with its coiled body. It shook its head and looked at Hao San.


    "Hao San?" The horned dragon spoke in humannguage.


    "Unexpectedly, it''s you. I thought it would be a flood dragon," Hao San said with a hint of a surprised smile.


    "You used all your lifespan for a higher-level summoning. You''re eighty years old, in the congenital stage, with 120 years of lifespan left. Although through the contract I can only gain one-tenth of it, which is twelve years, it''s still better than nothing. Why wouldn''t Ie? But with your lifespan exhausted, you''ll only live until Hai hour (9-11 PM) today," the horned dragon said.


    "Hai hour? That''s enough. Just get me out of here, and take me around before Hai hour," Hao San said.


    "s, the mighty Hao family has fallen to such a state. It''s hard to believe. By the way, your woman in the Dragon Pce finally gave birth. But she died after giving birth," the horned dragon said.


    "She gave birth? Really? A boy or a girl?" Hao San immediately asked.


    "Unfortunately, it''s a girl. Not good for continuing your Hao family''s grand enterprise," the horned dragon said.


    "A girl? How can it be a girl? A girl? Yes, a girl is good, a girl is good," Hao San suddenlyughed maniacally.


    "What''s the background of your woman? After giving birth to the girl, a strong evil energy surged into the infant, leaving your woman lifeless while all the nts around the infant withered and died," the horned dragon asked in confusion.


    "Yes, yes, hahahaha, a body of ten thousand evils, a body of ten thousand evils," Hao Sanughed excitedly.


    "What? Your woman was a Nine Lives Grudge Girl? And you made her pregnant?" The horned dragon looked at Hao San with a hint of astonishment.


    "A Nine Lives Grudge Girl, who died from extreme resentment in nine lifetimes, extremely yin and extremely evil. If she gave birth to a boy, it wouldn''t be much, just restoring my Hao family''s empire. But if she gave birth to a girl, all the evil energy from nine lives would transfer into the girl, making her a body of ten thousand evils. Hahaha. She is also the tenth-generation bloodline summoner of my Hao family, thest generation, just in time for thest opportunity. From now on, let her wreak havoc, hahaha," Hao Sanughed maniacally.


    ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������


    On the outskirts of Baiwu Mountain, within a canyon, two figures were walking towards the valley where Baiwu Mountain was located.


    "Don''t worry, Senior Brother should be just ahead," Zhong Shan said to Tian Ling''er beside him.

 Chapter 47:Snake movement

    <h4>Chapter 47:Snake movement</h4>


    "Zhong Shan, how do you know Senior Brother is here?" Tian Ling''er asked as she walked alongside Zhong Shan.


    For some reason, Tian Ling''er no longer seemed as eager to meet her Senior Brother. Along the way, she kept convincing herself that she must see him. She was now at the tenth level of the innate stage and was about to reach the Golden Core stage. Once she reached the Golden Core stage, she could no longer be seen as a little girl in his eyes when he called her Junior Sister.


    "Hao San has been found. After this canyon, we''ll be there. Many disciples from various immortal sects are gathered around. Our Kaiyang Sect members must be there too," Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    "Oh," Tian Ling''er nodded and then lowered her head, lost in her thoughts, kicking small stones along the way.


    Seeing her actions, Zhong Shan shook his head and smiled.


    Finally, the two emerged from the canyon and reached its mouth. They saw a hillpletely shrouded in white mist, surrounded by a ring of high mountains.


    On the surrounding mountains stood numerous figures, all solemnly gazing at the center of the white mist-covered mountain.


    Upon seeing this scene, Zhong Shan''s heart tightened as he quickly analyzed the current situation.


    "Senior Brother, it''s Senior Brother and Third Senior Sister," Tian Ling''er suddenly pointed excitedly towards a northern peak.


    What Tian Ling''er didn''t notice was that this time, her eyes didn''t only focus on her Senior Brother but also on Bei Qingsi. In the past, no matter how many people were around her Senior Brother, she would only have eyes for him.


    As soon as she saw her Senior Brother, Tian Ling''er''s heart felt lighter. Perhaps by reflex, she quickly darted out of the canyon and headed towards the distant peak where the Kaiyang Sect members were gathered.


    "Wait..." Zhong Shan called out, but it was toote; Tian Ling''er had already run off. Seeing this, Zhong Shan sighed and followed her.


    Their sudden appearance in the valley instantly attracted the attention of all the onlookers.


    Everyone was focused on the white mist-covered mountain, waiting for Hao San to show up while also being wary of the various forces present. Unless one had absolute strength, the first to charge would not be the one to seize the prize.


    Tian Ling''er and Zhong Shan''s sudden appearance caused a stir among the onlookers. Did these two intend to snatch Hao San?


    Some people grew cautious, but then noticed the two weren''t heading towards the white mist mountain but were instead running towards the northern peak after emerging from the canyon.


    What are they doing?


    On the eastern peak.


    "Qianyou, those two moved first," Gu Lin immediately called to the young woman beside him.


    Hearing Gu Lin, Princess Qianyou frowned and nced at him with some annoyance.


    "Prince, those two are only at the innate stage and are heading north. They probably aren''t going after Hao San," Mr. Shui Jing exined.


    "Innate stage?" Gu Lin believed Mr. Shui Jing''s words.


    On the northern peak, where the Kaiyang Sect disciples were gathered.


    "Senior Brother, it''s Ling''er and that new disciple from the sect," Yun Qian immediately recognized Tian Ling''er and Zhong Shan below.


    Seeing the two figures rapidly approaching from the northern mountain peak, the senior brother Tian Sha paused momentarily. He nced at Bei Qingsi beside him, his brow furrowing slightly.


    Tian Sha wasn''t a fool; he naturally knew about Tian Ling''er''s affection for him. However, with Bei Qingsi by his side at this moment, any misunderstanding arising from this situation was something he wanted to avoid at all costs.


    At the same time, Bei Qingsi was also watching the two figures below. More specifically, her gaze was fixed on Zhong Shan. Seeing Zhong Shan brought back memories of their encounter at the hot spring, making her feel a sudden rush of warmth.


    This man, Zhong Shan? Why has he appeared again? She had avoided the Kaiyang Hall meeting precisely to avoid the awkwardness of seeing him, and now, so soon after, they were meeting again?


    Bei Qingsi''s brow furrowed slightly, a flicker of embarrassment crossing her eyes. She was unsure how to face Zhong Shan in a moment.


    However, Tian Ling''er was rapidly approaching, making it impossible for Tian Sha and Bei Qingsi to pretend they hadn''t seen them.


    Zhong Shan followed closely behind Tian Ling''er because he had sensed something ominous from the gazes of the powerful individuals atop the surrounding peaks. Their looks were not friendly, suggesting his presence had triggered some taboo. Moreover, at the center, there was a mountain shrouded in white mist��could it be Hao San?


    As Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er ran towards the northern peak, a sudden explosion erupted from behind them, from the direction of the white mist-covered mountain.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~"


    The thunderous roar made Tian Ling''er stop abruptly and turn her head in astonishment towards the source.


    Simrly, all eyes shifted from Zhong Shan to the white mist-covered mountain, as that was everyone''s ultimate objective. Even the members of the Kaiyang Sect were now focused on the white mist-covered mountain.


    After the deafening roar, the white mist began to dissipate slowly. Everyone saw that the base of the mountain was no longer the color of earth but a gleaming golden hue. Clearly, the defensive formation had not only protected the mountain but had turned the ground beneath it as solid as diamond.


    As the formation retracted, the golden ground gradually faded, revealing numerous white gs nted around the mountain.


    It was a g array.


    An elderly man dressed in ck, holding a horsetail whisk, made a hand gesture, and the numerous white gs flew into his hands.


    On the mountain, fifty-one gigantic serpents, each thirty meters long, raised their heads and hissed menacingly. Among them, a colossal serpent, no��a dragon, stood out. This creature was a Chi Dragon, one hundred and fifty meters long, with a single horn on its head like a blunt de pointing skyward, exuding a terrifying presence.


    A Chi Dragon?


    The powerful figures atop the surrounding peaks were astir. How could it be a Chi Dragon?


    The Chi Dragon, standing fifty meters tall with a third of its body lifted into the air, had icy, piercing eyes. Its massive form exuded an overwhelming aura.


    At the base of the enormous dragon horn stood a man in white robes, his hair also white. His eyes gleamed with a cold indifference, a defiant spirit challenging the heavens.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The Chi Dragon roared again, as if to intimidate all the powerful figures present.


    With this roar, the fifty-one giant serpents quickly slithered down the mountain, splitting into three groups and heading in different directions.


    One of these groups, consisting of sixteen giant serpents, was heading straight north.


    While Tian Ling''er was still in shock from the terrifying scene, Zhong Shan felt his hair standing on end.


    "Run~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With his eyes zing red, Zhong Shan let out a loud roar, grabbing Tian Ling''er and dashing towards the distant mountain peak. Their path veered swiftly away from due north, heading instead towards the northeast.


    The speed of the giant serpents was terrifying. In no time, they slithered down the mountain, and some of them even reared up, thrusting their heads downward into the earth and disappearing underground.


    As Zhong Shan dragged Tian Ling''er along, he also glimpsed the scene behind them, feeling a growing sense of urgency. The giant serpents were closing in, and what''s more, their erratic movements seemed to be gradually veering towards Zhong Shan''s direction.


    On the mountain where the Kaiyang Sect was located, the disciples were rmed. Bei Qingsi and Tian Sha rushed downwards swiftly, followed by the other disciples.


    On the eastern mountain peak, Princess Qianyou frowned as she watched the many serpents prowling about. She then nced at the Chi Dragon at the summit.


    "A Chi Dragon? It''s actually a Chi Dragon?" Ancient Lin eximed in surprise, his eyes revealing a strong sense of difficulty.


    Mr. Shuijing, shaking his feather fan, squinted his eyes. After casting a brief nce at the Chi Dragon and the figure of Hao San on its head, he shifted his gaze to the ck-robed Old Wei.


    As Ancient Lin looked at the Chi Dragon and then turned his gaze to Princess Qianyou, seeing her grave expression, he suddenly felt a surge of determination. "Qianyou, I''ll send someone to capture Hao San for you," he said, his mind racing.


    Before he could finish his sentence, Princess Qianyou shot him a stern look. "Silence," she snapped.


    Meanwhile, Mr. Shuijing shook his head slightly with his fan, clearly feeling resigned about Ancient Lin''s meddling.


    Down below, the speed of the giant serpents was terrifying. In the blink of an eye, they were about to catch up to Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er.


    Tian Ling''er, now realizing the gravity of the situation, ran alongside Zhong Shan towards the slope ahead. Bei Qingsi and Tian Sha were also descending from above, approaching quickly. But the dozen or so giant serpents behind them were even faster.


    "Leap onto the boulder, jump!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    Because right in front of them was arge ck stone. By jumping onto it and then giving another powerful leap, the people flying above on swords could catch them and Tian Ling''er, and then swiftly ascend to safety.


    Tian Ling''er had already caught a whiff of the foul odor emanating from the serpents behind them. Without hesitation, she followed Zhong Shan''s instructions, driven perhaps by the urgency of the situation or by her blind admiration for Zhong Shan umted over time.


    Almost simultaneously, the two stepped onto therge stone and exerted their utmost strength. With a kick from their legs, the boulder shattered beneath them. But their bodies soared upwards in parallel.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    From the shattered side of the boulder, the earth suddenly trembled as an endless stream of soil and rocks shot into the sky. A gigantic red serpent head emerged from the gaping hole, opening its bloody maw and hurtling towards the airborne figures at terrifying speed.

 Chapter 48: Swallowed by the Serpent鈥檚 Belly

    <h4>Chapter 48: Swallowed by the Serpent''s Belly</h4>


    The Chi Dragon remained motionless on the mountain, with Hao San standing atop it, overlooking the surroundings. Old Wei, the eunuch in ck robes, stood by the Chi Dragon''s side, clutching his horsetail whisk.


    Hao San''s cold gaze scanned the surroundings, as if waiting for something. He watched as the three groups of giant serpents swiftly entered the valley, preparing to escape the attention of the powerful beings present.


    Princess Qianyou felt increasingly uneasy, her gaze fixed on the giant serpents. While all three groups were moving quickly, the ones on the northern side seemed to be disying some novelty��two serpents were circling each other as if they were a pair of mandarin ducks.


    The red serpent lunged towards Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er, its speed clearly faster than Bei Qingsi and Tian Sha''s descent from above.


    Both Bei Qingsi and Tian Sha''s expressions were filled with extreme anxiety, urging themselves to fly downwards faster. Butpared to the speed of the red serpent''s gaping mouth, they were still slightly slow. The mouth was already upon them.


    As Zhong Shan lifted Tian Ling''er upwards, he heard a loud noise. Turning his head, he saw the red serpent''s gaping maw hurtling towards them. In the next moment, they would undoubtedly be swallowed whole.


    Seeing this tense scene, Zhong Shan''s mind raced. What to do? What to do?


    The more critical the situation, the calmer Zhong Shan became. Staring at the gaping maw, he quickly made a decision.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan reached out his hands, grabbed Tian Ling''er''s buttocks tightly, hoisted her upwards, and pushed her fiercely into the sky. Tian Ling''er''s speed increased suddenly, doubling as she shot up into the air. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan''s own speed decreased rapidly. In fact, under the force of his push, his body was rapidly descending.


    Because only in this way could they avoid the serpent''s gaping mouth. Just a little bit of time, and Bei Qingsi and Tian Sha would be able to reach them. Just a little bit of time to survive. There was no other choice.


    Tian Ling''er ascended rapidly, while Zhong Shan descended urgently. As a result, the red serpent missed its bite. They had bought themselves a moment.


    However, the red serpent was not to be trifled with. Its speed was astonishing. Having missed its target the first time, it swiftly turned its head and engulfed Zhong Shan, who was descending below.


    Zhong Shan watched incredulously as he was swallowed by the serpent''s belly. The serpent''s speed exceeded his expectations, and its choice left him with no means of resistance.


    The speed was too fast. The people above hadn''t even had time toe down yet, and yet the serpent chose him, separating him from Tian Ling''er. With a sense of regret and frustration, Zhong Shan felt darkness envelop him as he was swallowed by the serpent.


    After jumping off the boulder, Tian Ling''er did not sense the red serpent behind her. She only knew that danger was imminent and that she must quickly leap onto her senior brother''s or third senior sister''s flying sword.


    At that moment, Tian Ling''er suddenly felt a pair ofrge hands on her buttocks. Zhong Shan? Tian Ling''er widened her eyes in disbelief. Why was Zhong Shan here at this moment?


    Just as Tian Ling''er was extremely surprised, those hands suddenly tightened with tremendous force, as if they were about to tear her tender buttocks apart. The intense pain quickly stimted Tian Ling''er''s nerves, and tears welled up in her eyes.


    What was Zhong Shan doing? Tian Ling''er couldn''t tell if it was grievance or pain that made her tears flow.


    But the next moment, she felt Zhong Shan push her.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Tian Ling''er shot upwards at an elerated speed.


    "Hiss~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A brutal hiss came from behind her. At this moment, Tian Ling''er finally realized what was happening. Zhong Shan, he was saving her by pushing her out of the serpent''s mouth.


    As her speed increased sharply, she drew closer to Bei Qingsi. Bei Qingsi reached out her hand and was about to grab Tian Ling''er''s arm.


    At this moment, Tian Ling''er quickly turned her head to look down and saw the red serpent''s mouth swallowing Zhong Shan, who was falling helplessly.


    "Zhong Shan~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Tian Ling''er suddenly screamed out, "Zhong Shan, Zhong Shan sacrificed himself to save me? Is he dead? He died to save me?" Seeing Zhong Shan being swallowed by the giant red serpent, Tian Ling''er suddenly felt a sharp pang in her heart. Disbelief, unwillingness, and sorrow mixed together as she let out a piercing cry. The tears that had started flowing earlier now poured out like a mountain spring.


    Tian Sha rushed towards the red serpent, but the serpent was adept at digging holes. After swallowing Zhong Shan, it plunged headfirst into the earth and disappeared in an instant. Other serpents also converged at the scene. Realizing the futility of the situation, Tian Sha swiftly flew upwards.


    Bei Qingsi grabbed Tian Ling''er with one hand, staring incredulously as Zhong Shan was devoured by the serpent. Her previous tumultuous feelings towards Zhong Shan suddenly felt hollow. But still, she held onto Tian Ling''er and flew upwards.


    Tian Ling''er''s body twisted uncontrobly at this moment, as if she wanted to rush down to save Zhong Shan. She seemed almost frenzied, shouting Zhong Shan''s name and frantically tugging at Bei Qingsi''s clothes, leaving them creased.


    "It''s toote to save him, let''s go up," Tian Sha said as he flew closer.


    "No, Zhong Shan isn''t dead, please save him, hurry!" Tian Ling''er cried, staring at the gaping hole in the ground.


    From afar, Princess Qianyou witnessed the entire scene. When she saw Zhong Shan pushing Tian Ling''er away, her previous doubts about Hao San''s actions suddenly turned into an inexplicable emotion, with a hint of envy shing in her eyes.


    "Zhong Shan? Who else would sacrifice themselves for me in the face of death?" Princess Qianyou sighed with a hint of sadness.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou like this, Water Mirror Master smiled faintly as he shook his feather fan, a trace of affection shing in his eyes as he looked at her.


    "Qianyou, if it were me, I would do the same as that person," Gu Lin immediately expressed his loyalty.


    Hearing Gu Lin''s voice, Princess Qianyou shot him a sideways nce with a trace of disdain in her eyes, before returning to contemting Hao San''s actions.


    The scene of Zhong Shan sacrificing himself to save Tian Ling''er was witnessed by countless people. However, that scene could only be seen as an interlude.


    On the mountain, Hao San stood on the Chi Dragon''s head, watching as the red serpent swallowed Zhong Shan and then disappeared underground. A trace of destion shed in his eyes.


    "Are you sad to see me die?" Hao San spoke softly. Apparently, he found a reason for the red serpent''s sudden peculiar behavior.


    "Let''s go, head west. Take me wandering until midnight," Hao San said softly.


    "Hiss~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The Chi Dragon roared towards the sky, swaying its body, then pped its tail on the ground, creating a deep trench, and swiftly swam towards the west. Eunuch Old Wei followed closely behind.


    In an instant, the Chi Dragon arrived at the valley. Its speed was more than ten times faster than that of the serpents. As it moved, the earth cracked and a towering dust cloud rose, surging towards a distant canyon, leading into the depths of endless mountains.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    At the peak of the western mountain, a blue light emitted a loud sound of breaking through the void, shooting towards the Chi Dragon, or rather, towards Eunuch Old Wei by the side of the Chi Dragon.


    An arrow shot forth, carrying an immense and mighty force. Seeing this scene, Old Wei''s eyes widened, and he brandished his horsetail whisk towards the divine arrow.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Old Wei was sent flying backward.


    "Old Wei!" Hao San shouted from the Chi Dragon''s head.


    "I only care about you; he''s none of my concern." With that, the Chi Dragon ignored Hao San''s call and continued its journey with Hao San.


    Seeing Hao San trying to escape, the powerful beings swiftly chased after him.


    "Qianyou, let''s chase after him quickly," Gu Lin immediately shouted.


    "Shut up," Princess Qianyou said impatiently. Then, ignoring Gulin, she turned to look at the old Wei, who had been shot back by the divine arrow, together with Mr. Shuijing.


    "Puff~~~~~~~~~~"


    The dust in Old Wei''s hand scattered and shattered. Under the tremendous force, he spat out a mouthful of blood and flew backwards with a bitter smile.


    From the west, where the arrows were shot earlier, suddenly flew out more than a dozen people, rushing towards Old Wei.


    "Capture that old man," Princess Qianyou ordered.


    After Princess Qianyou finished speaking, a group of people behind her quickly rushed towards the eunuch Old Wei. Not only that, but another force from the south also rushed towards Old Wei.


    Flying in the air, Old Wei felt the three forcesing towards him. A strong sense of tragic solemnity appeared on his face. He turned his hand and took out arge ck ball.


    "Hahaha~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With the crazyughter of the eunuch Old Wei, the ck ball in his hand suddenly shot out arge amount of lightning.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    The ck ball exploded, causing Old Wei''s body to explode into fragments in the air, and blood rained down.


    The huge shock caused by the explosion made the people rushing towards him quickly retreat and avoid.


    Seeing the man take out the ck ball, Princess Qianyou suddenly eximed, "Not good."


    The eunuch was dead, and Princess Qianyou showed a trace of regret on her face. She stomped her slender, beautiful legs on the ground with anger.


    "Let''s go," Princess Qianyou said angrily.


    Then, the crowd followed Princess Qianyou quickly towards the direction of Qiu Long, chasing after them.


    The other forces also did the same, chasing after them quickly.


    Bei Qingsi pulled Tian Ling''er up the mountain, and then this series of dramatic changes urred. Tian Sha watched Hao San escaping and reflexively said, "Chase."


    The others from Kaiyang Sect immediately followed Tian Sha and flew towards the direction of Qiu Long. In the air, Tian Sha looked back at Bei Qingsi when she didn''te, then turned to look at Bei Qingsi.


    But Bei Qingsi was pulling Tian Ling''er and heading towards Qiu Long. She nced at him slightly, then looked at Tian Ling''er, who was going crazy, and frowned.


    "You guys go," Bei Qingsi said softly.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi refusing to leave, Tian Sha frowned, then immediately said, "Yun Qian, you stay and apany Qingsi. Meet at Cuiyun Mountain in five days."


    PS: Please collect and rmend.

 Chapter 49: Escape from the Serpent鈥檚 Belly

    <h4>Chapter 49: Escape from the Serpent''s Belly</h4>


    Tian Sha made arrangements and, with his junior brothers, shed swiftly towards the direction of Qiu Long in the distance.


    Seeing Tian Sha leaving Yun Qian behind, Bei Qingsi frowned but didn''t say anything. Yun Qian awkwardly flew back to the mountain peak.


    "Zhongshan is not dead! Quickly, save Zhongshan!" Tian Ling''er shouted, tears streaming down her face as she struggled against Bei Qingsi''s restraint, as if she wanted to break free and rush down to find Zhongshan.


    "Ling''er, Zhongshan is beyond saving," Yun Qian immediately said to Tian Ling''er.


    "I don''t believe it! Zhongshan will be fine!" Tian Ling''er shouted.


    However, Bei Qingsi shook her head and sighed deeply. Her heart was in turmoil. She wished Zhongshan dead, hoping it would bury the past, yet she also hoped for him to miraculously survive. His death would relieve her of her worries about their past, but for some reason, she wished for him to escape, feeling conflicted inside.


    "No, Zhongshan is not dead, he can''t be dead," Tian Ling''er continued to insist.


    Indeed, Zhongshan was not dead, just as Tian Ling''er said. At this moment, Zhongshan was indeed alive. If the Great Red Snake had attacked him directly, he might have died, but instead, it swallowed him whole.


    As soon as he entered the belly of the Great Red Snake, Zhongshan felt darkness surrounding him. His body slid through a slippery passage beforeing to a stop in a fleshy chamber.


    But this flesh was only soft enough to allow passage; in the blink of an eye, it turned as hard as diamond, relentlessly contracting and contorting, as if to crush himpletely. Moreover, there was arge amount of corrosive liquid that irritated his skin, causing Zhongshan sudden pain.


    It was the stomach, the stomach of the Great Red Snake.


    Zhongshan immediately identified the ce. Facing life and death, he wanted to retaliate quickly, but the massive muscles of the stomach rendered him immobile.


    Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique!


    Quickly employing the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique, Zhongshan''s nearly crushed bones quickly braced themselves, but the pressure from the stomach muscles was still too much, and Zhongshan struggled in agony.


    Crimson Phoenix Mist!


    Arge amount of Crimson Phoenix Mist surged out in all directions, rushing into the body of the Great Red Snake.


    No, the corrosive power of the stomach acid was too strong.


    What to do?


    Contain!


    Zhongshan quickly controlled his storage bracelet, rapidly absorbing everything from the stomach, regardless of what it was. Whether it was stomach acid or other residue, he didn''t care, as long as he could escape.


    Arge amount of stomach acid was quickly absorbed into the storage bracelet. Even Zhongshan felt something like a small wooden box being sucked into the bracelet. Did the snake eat everything, even wood?


    Strange thoughts shed through his mind, but they were quickly overwhelmed by the excruciating pain from the squeezing muscles of the snake''s stomach. Even with the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique, Zhongshan felt like his whole body was being crushed.


    Crimson Phoenix Mist, arge amount of it, surged towards the Great Red Snake. The snake, underground, suddenly turned its eyes red, writhing ufortably, and struggling frantically. Its whole body became restless.


    Although it had been affected by the world''s greatest aphrodisiac, the Great Red Snake''s stomach strength remained unabated, still squeezing Zhongshan relentlessly.


    All the stomach acid had been stored in the storage bracelet, but the squeezing force continued to increase. Zhongshan widened his eyes, red veins popping out, and gritted his teeth. He exerted all his strength because he knew that at this moment, any rxation would immediately result in him being crushed into pulp, and that would mean certain death.


    Under the immense pressure, Zhongshan was nearing his limit. It felt like with just a little more force, he would copse entirely.


    Veins bulged all over Zhongshan''s body as he clenched his teeth, driven by an intense desire to survive, struggling fiercely.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    With a mighty roar, Zhongshan''s body suddenly expanded again, and he felt his strength surge once more.


    Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique, second stage.


    Triple the strength, triple the power. Finally, in this most critical moment, Zhongshan broke through. As a notorious figure, he quickly revealed his ferocious side. His arm shook fiercely, and Nightmare, the greatsword, was instantly grasped in his hand. He ruthlessly shed at the stomach of the Great Red Snake.


    The Great Red Snake was already affected by the Crimson Phoenix Mist, and its entire body was in chaos. It writhed madly underground, its path no longer clear, just wildly thrashing about. At the moment when it was suddenly cut in the stomach, the Great Red Snake suddenly surged upwards in pain.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    In its confusion, the Great Red Snake burst out of the ground, sending arge tree flying from its roots.


    "Bang~~~~~~~~~~"


    The snakended in a forest, its body writhing wildly, its tail swinging rapidly, destroying arge number of trees and vegetation in the forest. The forest became chaotic in an instant.


    "Annihte!~~~~~~~~~~"


    With one final roar, under the tripled force, Zhongshan swung his sword fiercely at the abdomen of the Great Red Snake. With immense strength, he split open the snake''s stomach, and with all his might, he brought out arge amount of fiery red aura, cleaving through the snake''s abdomen.


    "Swoosh~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a loud noise, the sword split open the snake''s belly, and strong light instantly flooded in from the outside.


    The stomach ruptured, and the muscles of the stomach seemed to lose strength in an instant, bing soft.


    Zhongshan quickly squeezed out of the abdomen, apanied by arge amount of snake blood flowing out.


    A gaping hole appeared in the belly of the Great Red Snake, and arge amount of content flowed out. At this moment, the Great Red Snake seemed to suddenly awaken, turning its head to look at its belly, intense disbelief shing in its eyes. Dead, am I dead?


    The snake''s body continued to writhe, as if making a final struggle, but struggling was futile. The more it struggled, the weaker it became, and its vitality dwindled.


    "Zhongshan~~~~~~~~~~"


    A sudden shout from Tian Ling''er came from a distant mountain peak.


    Originally, Bei Qingsi and Yun Qian had given up, because a thirty-meter-long snake''s strength was close to that of the Golden Core stage, while Zhongshan had only joined the Kaiyang Sect for a little over a year. Even if he wasn''t corroded by the stomach acid, being crushed to death by the stomach muscles was certain. Moreover, now they couldn''t even see the snake, let alone its body. It was unclear where to find it. But Tian Ling''er''s continuous calling made Bei Qingsi feel helpless.


    After everyone had left, when Tian Ling''er suddenly shouted, from a distant valley, a forest, a huge red snake suddenly burst out from underground. The snake smashed arge tree, writhing in agony in the forest, clearly in pain.


    A red snake writhing in pain? Moreover, this big red snake was exactly the same as the one that had swallowed Zhongshan before.


    Seeing the big red snake, Tian Ling''er''s eyes burst with strong excitement, while Bei Qingsi and Yun Qian showed surprise.


    Then, the two of them saw an even more surprising sight. A half-de suddenly appeared from the belly of the big red snake. With a single sh, a huge gash was made in its belly.


    No, the de emerged from the belly, and in an instant, a body rolled out from inside.


    Bei Qingsi and Yun Qian seemed to realize something, taking Tian Ling''er with them as they quickly flew towards the struggling giant snake.


    Seeing Zhongshan survive, Tian Ling''er eximed in joy. Her previous sorrowful tears were quickly reced by tears of excitement. She flew to the valley, quickly jumped off Bei Qingsi''s longsword, and rushed towards Zhongshan.


    As for Yun Qian, he drew his longsword and began to attack the severely wounded snake.


    Tian Ling''er pounced into Zhongshan''s arms.


    "You big viin, you scared me to death!" Tian Ling''er cried out, then suddenly a happy smile appeared on her face.


    Just after breaking through to the second stage of the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique, Zhongshan felt somewhat ufortable, his whole body aching as he watched Tian Ling''er crying andughing in his arms intermittently. Zhongshan gently said, "I''m dirty."


    Indeed, Zhongshan''s entire body was covered in the snake''s blood and a strong stench, but Tian Ling''er held onto him, showing no sign of disgust whatsoever.


    "Take him to the side, don''t let the snake hurt him again," Bei Qingsi said.


    Upon hearing Bei Qingsi''s words, Tian Ling''er hesitated for a moment. Yes, Zhongshan was injured and couldn''t be hurt by the snake again. She picked up Zhongshan and rushed towards a safer area.


    Watching Tian Ling''er like this, Zhongshan smiled faintly. For some reason, the cold heart that had been dormant for many years suddenly felt warm.


    Bei Qingsi followed behind, watching Tian Ling''er holding Zhongshan with immense joy. For some reason, Bei Qingsi suddenly felt a sense of emptiness in her heart.


    Dealing with the severely injured snake, Yun Qian alone was enough. Sure enough, as Zhongshan was brought to a safe ce, Yun Qianpletely killed the Great Red Snake.

 Chapter 50: Forging the Celestial Court

    <h4>Chapter 50: Forging the Celestial Court</h4>


    The Demonic Body Tempering Art, Second Stage!


    In the critical moment between life and death, Zhong Shan had broken through. However, having utilized the Demonic Body Tempering Art on top of his initial foundation, his entire body was now wracked with pain. He needed a day or two of rest to recover, but once he did, his strength would undergo a qualitative leap, especially when employing the Demonic Body Tempering Art.


    In the distance, Yun Qian was meticulously disassembling the corpse of the giant red serpent, as every part of the serpent''s body was valuable.


    "Zhong Shan, how are you feeling now?" Tian Ling''er immediately checked Zhong Shan''s body, finding no missing limbs but still asked with concern.


    "I''m fine. I just need a couple of days to rest," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    Bei Qingsi stood not far away, ncing at Tian Ling''er and then at Zhong Shan. At this moment, Bei Qingsi felt extremely conflicted, unsure how to face Zhong Shan. She awkwardly stood aside, not saying a word, her eyes on Yun Qian but her mind focused on Zhong Shan.


    "Where are the others?" Zhong Shan looked around, realizing only his group remained.


    "I don''t know," Tian Ling''er said, wiping her tears in confusion.


    At that time, Tian Ling''er''s entire focus had been on Zhong Shan and the giant red serpent, paying no attention to what was happening outside.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er crying like a little kitten, Zhong Shan shook his head and smiled. He reached out to wipe her tears, but halfway there, he withdrew his hand, realizing it was covered in blood.


    "Third Senior Sister, what happened earlier?" Tian Ling''er quickly turned to ask Bei Qingsi.


    Bei Qingsi, forced to turn her head by Tian Ling''er''s question, nced at Zhong Shan. A sh of awkwardness crossed her eyes, but she tried to appear as if she had forgotten the events of that day.


    "Hao San left under the protection of the Flood Dragon, the eunuchmitted suicide, and everyone else went after Hao San," Bei Qingsi replied truthfully.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi feign calmness, Zhong Shan nodded without further questions, sparing her additional embarrassment.


    "I''ll meditate for a while. Ling''er, can you look around for a pond? I need to wash upter," Zhong Shan said.


    Wiping her tears, Tian Ling''er''s previous sorrow quickly turned to joy. Naturally, she eagerly nodded at Zhong Shan''s request.


    "Mm-hmm," Tian Ling''er responded twice, then immediately ran off to search for a pond.


    With Yun Qian busy dismembering the giant red serpent in the distance, only Bei Qingsi remained.


    "I''ll go look as well," Bei Qingsi said, feeling the awkwardness in the air. Without waiting for Zhong Shan to respond, she flew off in the opposite direction of Tian Ling''er.


    Watching Bei Qingsi leave, Zhong Shan shook his head with a smile and closed his eyes to meditate.


    This time, he was seriously injured.


    Zhong Shan meditated for an entire hour. His body felt somewhat better, but his true energy was only about thirty percent of its usual amount.


    Opening his eyes, he saw the three return, looking at him.


    "Zhong Shan, how are you now?" Tian Ling''er asked, her eyes wide with concern.


    "Much better. Did you find a pond?" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "It''s over there, about five li away. We can get there quickly," Tian Ling''er replied immediately.


    "I''ll take you there," Yun Qian offered.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Yun Qian turned his hand, and with a flick of his wrist, a flying sword appeared, transforming into a giant sword that floated in mid-air. The sword''s back was as wide as a nk and emitted a faint green glow. Zhong Shan stepped onto it, and Yun Qian, controlling the sword, swiftly carried them to a distant valley where a pondy nestled.


    Uponnding, Yun Qian said, "You can wash here."


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Regarding the giant red serpent''s corpse, Yun Qian didn''t mention it at all. Zhong Shan decided not to bring it up either. He removed his clothes and jumped into the pond, washing himself thoroughly.


    In his storage bracelet, Zhong Shan had fresh clothes, but they had been corroded by the giant red serpent''s stomach acid and were now unwearable. He had to wash his previous clothes and put them back on.


    After washing up, Zhong Shan, although still gravely injured, looked much more refreshed.


    He reunited with Tian Ling''er and Bei Qingsi.


    "Senior Sister, before he left, Senior Brother instructed us to go to Cuiyun Mountain. He will definitelye within five days," Yun Qian said to Bei Qingsi.


    "You can go and meet him yourself," Bei Qingsi replied, frowning slightly.


    "But I already promised Senior Brother. Senior Sister, please wait. Otherwise, I won''t know how to exin it to him. Besides, Senior Brother promised to apany you to Bamen Mountain. If you leave now, isn''t that..." Yun Qian looked troubled.


    Frowning, Bei Qingsi pondered for a moment, then nodded, "Alright, we''ll wait at Cuiyun Mountain for a few days."


    "Cuiyun Mountain?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    Within the Daqin Kingdom, there was a Cuiyun Mountain known as the most perilous peak. Ordinary people couldn''t climb it because it was surrounded by sheer cliffs on all sides, resembling a tall stone pir with only the summit covered in greenery like a patch of green clouds in the sky. Could it be that one?


    "Eight hundred li to the west. We''ll arrive by dusk," Yun Qian said after some thought.


    Indeed, it was that Cuiyun Mountain.


    Turning to look at Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shan frowned. He had promised to find her Senior Brother, but now that he was gone, they would have to wait at Cuiyun Mountain.


    "What about you, Ling''er?" Yun Qian asked.


    "We''ll go with you and wait together," Zhong Shan replied.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Yun Qian frowned. Who asked you to wait for Senior Brother? But with Bei Qingsi and Tian Ling''er both here, Yun Qian couldn''t say much.


    As for Tian Ling''er, she had no objections. Now that Zhong Shan was fine, waiting for Senior Brother wasn''t an issue.


    Only Bei Qingsi, ncing at Zhong Shan, felt a bit awkward but ultimately said nothing.


    They flew on two swords, Bei Qingsi carrying Tian Ling''er and Yun Qian carrying Zhong Shan. They reached the summit of Cuiyun Mountain before dusk.


    At the top of Cuiyun Mountain was a stone table and a few stone stools, looking very simple. The groupnded at the summit, and Zhong Shan looked down from the mountaintop.


    "Are we going to wait here?" Tian Ling''er asked, frowning.


    "Yes, we''ll wait here. It''s only for a few days," Yun Qian replied naturally.


    Zhong Shan sighed lightly. Waiting here foolishly for days? What if it rained or stormed? Wouldn''t they be the first ones struck by lightning on this mountaintop?


    "There''s a manor at the foot of the mountain that I bought before joining the Kaiyang Sect. Why don''t we wait there for the next few days?" Zhong Shan suggested.


    "No, if Senior Brother arrives and can''t find us, what then?" Yun Qian immediately shook his head.


    Seeing Yun Qian''s stubbornness, Zhong Shan frowned. Yun Qian''s tone always carried an air of superiority. Although Zhong Shan''s temperament allowed him to remain calm, he didn''t want to endure this attitude for a minor figure.


    "In that case, we''ll trouble you to wait here. We''ll go to the manor. When your Senior Brother arrives, notify us," Zhong Shan said.


    Yun Qian turned his hand, and with a flick of his wrist, a flying sword appeared, transforming into a giant sword that floated in mid-air. The sword''s back was as wide as a nk and emitted a faint green glow. Zhong Shan stepped onto it, and Yun Qian, controlling the sword, swiftly carried them to a distant valley where a pondy nestled.


    Uponnding, Yun Qian said, "You can wash here."


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Regarding the giant red serpent''s corpse, Yun Qian didn''t mention it at all. Zhong Shan decided not to bring it up either. He removed his clothes and jumped into the pond, washing himself thoroughly.


    In his storage bracelet, Zhong Shan had fresh clothes, but they had been corroded by the giant red serpent''s stomach acid and were now unwearable. He had to wash his previous clothes and put them back on.


    After washing up, Zhong Shan, although still gravely injured, looked much more refreshed.


    He reunited with Tian Ling''er and Bei Qingsi.


    "Senior Sister, before he left, Senior Brother instructed us to go to Cuiyun Mountain. He will definitelye within five days," Yun Qian said to Bei Qingsi.


    "You can go and meet him yourself," Bei Qingsi replied, frowning slightly.


    "But I already promised Senior Brother. Senior Sister, please wait. Otherwise, I won''t know how to exin it to him. Besides, Senior Brother promised to apany you to Bamen Mountain. If you leave now, isn''t that..." Yun Qian looked troubled.


    Frowning, Bei Qingsi pondered for a moment, then nodded, "Alright, we''ll wait at Cuiyun Mountain for a few days."


    "Cuiyun Mountain?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    Within the Daqin Kingdom, there was a Cuiyun Mountain known as the most perilous peak. Ordinary people couldn''t climb it because it was surrounded by sheer cliffs on all sides, resembling a tall stone pir with only the summit covered in greenery like a patch of green clouds in the sky. Could it be that one?


    "Eight hundred li to the west. We''ll arrive by dusk," Yun Qian said after some thought.


    Indeed, it was that Cuiyun Mountain.


    Turning to look at Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shan frowned. He had promised to find her Senior Brother, but now that he was gone, they would have to wait at Cuiyun Mountain.


    "What about you, Ling''er?" Yun Qian asked.


    "We''ll go with you and wait together," Zhong Shan replied.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Yun Qian frowned. Who asked you to wait for Senior Brother? But with Bei Qingsi and Tian Ling''er both here, Yun Qian couldn''t say much.


    As for Tian Ling''er, she had no objections. Now that Zhong Shan was fine, waiting for Senior Brother wasn''t an issue.


    Only Bei Qingsi, ncing at Zhong Shan, felt a bit awkward but ultimately said nothing.


    They flew on two swords, Bei Qingsi carrying Tian Ling''er and Yun Qian carrying Zhong Shan. They reached the summit of Cuiyun Mountain before dusk.


    At the top of Cuiyun Mountain was a stone table and a few stone stools, looking very simple. The groupnded at the summit, and Zhong Shan looked down from the mountaintop.


    "Are we going to wait here?" Tian Ling''er asked, frowning.


    "Yes, we''ll wait here. It''s only for a few days," Yun Qian replied naturally.


    Zhong Shan sighed lightly. Waiting here foolishly for days? What if it rained or stormed? Wouldn''t they be the first ones struck by lightning on this mountaintop?


    "There''s a manor at the foot of the mountain that I bought before joining the Kaiyang Sect. Why don''t we wait there for the next few days?" Zhong Shan suggested.


    "No, if Senior Brother arrives and can''t find us, what then?" Yun Qian immediately shook his head.


    Seeing Yun Qian''s stubbornness, Zhong Shan frowned. Yun Qian''s tone always carried an air of superiority. Although Zhong Shan''s temperament allowed him to remain calm, he didn''t want to endure this attitude for a minor figure.


    "In that case, we''ll trouble you to wait here. We''ll go to the manor. When your Senior Brother arrives, notify us," Zhong Shan said.

 Chapter 51: Celestial Dynasty

    <h4>Chapter 51: Celestial Dynasty</h4>


    "Forging the Celestial Court"


    This article, titled "Forging the Celestial Court," is neither a cultivation technique like the Great Yang Divine Art nor an auxiliary method like the Demonic Body Tempering Art. In fact, it is not a cultivation technique at all, yet it surpasses all techniques under heaven.


    Immortals achieve eternal life, but who in this world can be an immortal? There are countless cultivation methods, yet throughout the world, those who achieve immortality are extremely rare. Even throughout history, those who have attained immortality are few and far between.


    Bing an immortal is difficult; achieving eternal life is difficult. Without bing an immortal, one remains human, and as a human, one is bound by the limitations of lifespan. Everyone faces their inevitable end.


    Within a finite life span, cultivating to be an immortal is exceedingly difficult. Only those with extraordinaryprehension and innate talent can hope to break through before their time runs out. For most people, their lifespan is simply too short to achieve this. In the Innate Stage, one has a lifespan of two hundred years; in the Golden Core Stage, it extends to four hundred years. If one does not break through to the Nascent Soul Stage within those four hundred years, death is inevitable.


    For someone with Zhong Shan''s level of innate talent, it seemed certain that he would eventually be a mere handful of yellow soil.


    This is because a person carries many karmic obstructions. Whether due to poor innate talent, lowprehension, or being distracted by external matters, these are all karmic obstacles. The more obstacles one has, the harder it is to elevate one''s realm. One would need to put in two, three, or even five times the effortpared to someone with fewer obstacles to achieve the same aplishments.


    Zhong Shan''s innate talent was such that he had to work several times harder than others just to keep pace. Facing significant barriers, such as advancing from Postnatal to Innate Stage, or from Innate to Golden Core Stage, was extraordinarily difficult for him. This is why Zhong Shan had previously been so eager to obtain the Breaking Limit Pill.


    In the future, Zhong Shan''s innate talent would continue to be a limiting factor.


    This is the burden of karmic obstacles. With many and heavy obstacles, Zhong Shan''s path of cultivation was fraught with hardship.


    However, the article "Forging the Celestial Court" offered a method to remove these karmic obstacles. By following this method, one could clear away these obstacles, making cultivation smoother and significantly faster.


    The key was to gather arge amount of fortune. By using this fortune to cleanse the karmic obstacles, one could break through them and gain the favor of heaven and earth, thus speeding up the cultivation process.


    When fortune umtes to a certain level, it can form a recognized position within heaven and earth, known as a karmic position.


    The article mentioned three types of karmic positions, ranked from low to high: soft position, middle position, and upper position.


    Buddhist cultivators have different names for these positions, calling them fruits of attainment.


    The soft position corresponds to the Arhat Fruit. The middle position corresponds to the Bodhisattva Fruit. The upper position corresponds to the Buddha Fruit.


    Attaining different karmic positions naturally results in different cultivation speeds. Reaching the soft position increases cultivation speed to three times the usual rate, essentially providing an additional two lifetimes'' worth of time for cultivation. The middle position increases cultivation speed to ten times the normal rate, while the upper position increases it to a hundred times the normal rate.


    A hundredfold increase in cultivation speed��how terrifying is that? With such a rate, why would Zhong Shan worry about his poor innate talent? A hundred times the usual speed means that two hundred years of lifespan at the Innate Stage would be equivalent to twenty thousand years of cultivation time. Even a fool could reach the Golden Core Stage with that much time, let alone Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan was overjoyed. He was determined to ascend to a karmic position and gather an immense amount of fortune.


    However, Zhong Shan was also aware of how incredibly difficult it would be to gather such fortune. Nevertheless, no matter how difficult, Zhong Shan, with his longing for eternal life, was not afraid of the challenge. Moreover, Zhong Shan had an advantage that others did not.


    Zhong Shan had two bodies. One body could continue with regr cultivation, while the other could follow the path outlined in "Forging the Celestial Court."


    Creating a Heavenly Court involved establishing a nation, which could be called a state or a dynasty, gathering the world''s fortune��national, celestial, and earthly. When the nation flourished to a certain extent and formed an imperial dynasty, Zhong Shan would attain the rank of a soft position. Upon forming an emperor dynasty, he would achieve a middle position, and upon forming a heavenly dynasty, his position would be supreme, elerating his cultivation speed a hundredfold.


    However, this process was extremely difficult, immensely challenging. Even attaining a soft position in an imperial dynasty was an arduous task.


    Yet, for the sake of immortality, Zhong Shan decided without hesitation.


    Moreover, the nation''s fortune wasn''t just for the emperor alone. Ministers within the nation, once conferred by the emperor, would also gain fortune, and even positions. If the emperor of a heavenly dynasty held the supreme position, a Grand Preceptor, conferred by the emperor, would hold a middle position. Hence, establishing a nation was not a one-man task.


    Heavenly positions.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes gradually became resolute. Since this was the case, why not use his hidden identity to establish a dynasty?


    He reread the text "Creating a Heavenly Court," ensuring he remembered it thoroughly, before cing it back into the peachwood box and storing it in his bracelet.


    Establishing a dynasty?


    As he pondered, Zhong Shan suddenly thought of someone��Crown Prince Lietian, the one who had killed his wife, Kui''er.


    Crown Prince Lietian? He had thought it was merely a name, but now it seemed he truly was a prince of a dynasty. It was unclear whether it was an imperial dynasty, an emperor dynasty, or a heavenly dynasty.


    Regardless, the enmity with Crown Prince Lietian had to be avenged. But now, he was still far from where Lietian was. This wasn''t the time for unrealistic ambitions; he needed to proceed steadily and surely.


    Establishing a dynasty.


    Though establishing a dynasty was not easy, for Zhong Shan, it wasn''t impossible either. There was no need to rush; careful nning was necessary.


    Thus, that night, Zhong Shan spent continuously nning for the future, not sleeping at all.


    The next day, Tian Ling''er woke up early and came looking for Zhong Shan to take her shopping. As for Bei Qingsi, she hadn''t stepped out of her room, perhaps still feeling some awkwardness between her and Zhong Shan.


    After a night of thinking, Zhong Shan needed some rxation, so he took Tian Ling''er out for a stroll.


    After spending the day out, they returned with the tired Tian Ling''er, and Zhong Shan was also quite exhausted. While Tian Ling''er retired to her room to rest, Zhong Shan took a bath, feeling thoroughly refreshed.


    He went to the courtyard, sat in the pavilion, and drank wine under the moonlight. Gazing at the bright moon, he couldn''t help but think of his two former wives, Kui''er and Bao''er.


    Though many years had passed, they had never left Zhong Shan''s heart.


    Holding a cup of wine, staring at therge moon, Zhong Shan sighed softly, a trace of helplessness and regret shing in his eyes.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan suddenly noticed a figure on the rooftop of a distant house, hugging their knees and gazing at the moon, exuding a vulnerable and lonely aura.


    Bei Qingsi?


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly, looking at the rooftop where Bei Qingsi sat, seemingly lost in her own memories as she stared at the moon.


    After contemting for a moment, Zhong Shan grabbed a te of delicacies with one hand, a wine pot, and two cups with the other, and headed towards Bei Qingsi''s rooftop. With a few leaps, Zhong Shan reached the rooftop.


    Perhaps Bei Qingsi was too absorbed in her thoughts, or maybe she knew it was Zhong Shan approaching, as she didn''t look at him, continuing to sit and gaze at the moon.


    Gently, Zhong Shan ced the food and wine down beside her and looked at Bei Qingsi, noticing two tear streaks on her pristine cheeks.


    Zhong Shan sat next to Bei Qingsi, waiting silently.


    Finally, after a stick of incense time, Bei Qingsi blinked, the tear streaks on her face disappearing. She turned to look at Zhong Shan.


    "Do you know why I didn''t kill you that day?" Bei Qingsi asked softly.


    Hearing Bei Qingsi''s question, Zhong Shan frowned, recalling the incident at the hot spring. He himself had been puzzled about it ever since.


    "Please enlighten me," Zhong Shan said, fixing his gaze on Bei Qingsi.


    Feeling Zhong Shan''s gaze, Bei Qingsi''s whole body warmed, as if she was back to that day of vulnerable exposure. Her face flushed slightly, but seeing the pure look in Zhong Shan''s eyes, the unease in her heart slowly dissipated.


    "No man has ever seen my body before. No matter who it is, even if unintentional, I would fight to the death. But with you, Zhong Shan, I was conflicted." Bei Qingsi''s face showed a trace of self-mockery.


    "Because of that jade slip?" Zhong Shan asked calmly, looking at Bei Qingsi.


    "Yes, because of that jade slip," Bei Qingsi replied.


    "What is inside the jade slip? Can I know?" Zhong Shan asked, his eyes fixed on Bei Qingsi.


    Bei Qingsi smiled wryly, "You might not understand even if I tell you. It''s unlikely you couldprehend it."


    "If I don''t understand, then exin it. Maybe saying it out loud will ease your heart a bit," Zhong Shan suggested, noticing Bei Qingsi''s sorrow as she shed tears looking at the moon.


    Seemingly convinced by Zhong Shan, Bei Qingsi began to speak softly, "In this world, there are three Great Heavenly Dynasties. My father was once a third-rank official in one of these Heavenly Dynasties, holding a soft position, gathering the fortune of heaven and earth, with boundless prospects."


    Zhong Shan listened intently, frowning. Three Great Heavenly Dynasties? This was crucial information.


    "My father had a high reputation both in and out of court, but he was framed by viins. My entire Bei family, three hundred and twelve members, were all massacred except for me and the one who gave you the jade slip. The entire family was executed." Bei Qingsi''s voice was sorrowful, and tears streamed down her cheeks once more.


    Zhong Shan continued to listen carefully.


    "The person who gave you the jade slip was once a servant of my family, and my father had connections with the Kaiyang Sect. So, when I was young, the Kaiyang Sect took me in. My father was innocent, and he had a premonition of misfortune long ago. Therefore, he collected a lot of evidence and hid it in three different ces, without telling anyone. The servantter obtained the jade slip, which contained records of the evidence proving my father''s innocence and exposing the viins. I don''t mind dying, but the family''s revenge must be avenged, and my father''s name must be cleared. Because of you, my father has a chance to clear his name, so I didn''t kill you, even though you saw what you shouldn''t have." Bei Qingsi''s face showed a mix of sorrow and determination.

 Chapter 52: Toasting to the Bright Moon

    <h4>Chapter 52: Toasting to the Bright Moon</h4>


    Listening to Bei Qingsi''s story, Zhong Shan kept frowning and slowly filled both cups with wine.


    "Revenge? I think you shouldn''t seek revenge," Zhong Shan suddenly said, offering a cup of wine.


    Bei Qingsi, still immersed in her sorrow, widened her eyes at Zhong Shan''s words, a sh of anger crossing her gaze. She did not take the wine.


    "The Bei family, three hundred and twelve members, and that servant of yours... by now, he too has likely met a grim fate. In other words, you are thest remaining member of the Bei family," Zhong Shan said softly, offering the wine again.


    Bei Qingsi frowned at Zhong Shan but eventually took the cup.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi ept the cup, Zhong Shan shook his head and said, "You are thest bloodline of the Bei family. Revenge? If you fail, wouldn''t that mean theplete extinction of your family? Thest trace of the Bei family would be gone."


    Holding the cup, Bei Qingsi frowned, her white eyebrows adding a delicate touch to her expression.


    "Then what should I do?" Bei Qingsi asked, her lips parting slightly as she stared at Zhong Shan.


    "Don''t seek revenge. Live well. Don''t extinguish thest spark of the Bei family," Zhong Shan said softly.


    To Zhong Shan, ever since he saw Bei Qingsi bathing naked, he felt somewhat indebted to her. The favor of the jade slip had been repaid by his entrance into the Kaiyang Sect, and witnessing Bei Qingsi''s vulnerability was a debt he sought to repay. At this moment, he aimed to guide her toward life.


    "No, I must avenge this hatred," Bei Qingsi said resolutely.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi''s determination, Zhong Shan sighed and said, "If you must seek revenge, then at least ensure there is a descendant for the Bei family."


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Bei Qingsi''s face showed a trace of peculiarity, and then she blushed slightly, shaking her head gently.


    "You wouldn''t understand. Don''t try to persuade me. Let that day''s incident be forgotten. I am still Bei Qingsi," Bei Qingsi sighed, shaking her head.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi''s stubbornness, Zhong Shan knew he couldn''t persuade her, so he let it go, saying softly, "Alright. Just promise me that you won''t act rashly in your quest for revenge. Try to protect yourself."


    With that, Zhong Shan raised his cup to Bei Qingsi.


    Bei Qingsi smiled slightly and touched her cup to Zhong Shan''s.


    "Clink."


    The sound of the cups touching seemed to resonate in Bei Qingsi''s heart, as if at this moment, she could forget all past grievances andy down all burdens, feeling an immense sense of relief.


    After drinking, the two of them looked up at the moon together.


    "It''s been a while since you''ve had some snacks, hasn''t it? Try these," Zhong Shan said, introducing the pastries on the te.


    Surprisingly, Bei Qingsi did not refuse. At this moment, it seemed she had let go of everything. After confiding in Zhong Shan, she felt much lighter, as if a heavy shackle had temporarily been lifted. She ate with unusual enthusiasm.


    Watching Bei Qingsi''s current state, Zhong Shan shook his head, seeing the weight of her heart. He sighed softly, unable to help more, but he could at least try to make her night pleasant.


    Throughout the night, Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi drank and talked under the moon, sharing heartfelt conversations. It was a night of true happiness for Bei Qingsi.


    This night was the happiest she had been since the destruction of her family. In all these years, she had never felt such joy. Why did she feel this way with Zhong Shan? She had never spoken of her family''s vengeance to anyone, not even the top disciples of the Kaiyang Sect. Yet, for some reason, she feltpelled to confide in Zhong Shan tonight.


    As for Zhong Shan, he understood why Bei Qingsi had opened up to him. Earlier, she had wept silently under the moon, undoubtedly reminiscing about the tragic destruction of her family. In that moment of sorrow and suffocation, her heart was at its most vulnerable. Zhong Shan, who had once seen her naked and yet had not been killed by her, and who had also brought the means to clear her father''s name, naturally became a confidant in her eyes.


    Zhong Shan, being perceptive, knew he couldn''t resolve her issues but could at least help her alleviate some pressure. Otherwise, one day, the immense burden she carried would either crush her or drive her insane.


    As the moon was about to set, Zhong Shan suddenly spoke, "Earlier, I heard you mention that in a few days, you will head to Eight Gates Mountain?"


    Bei Qingsi looked at Zhong Shan. After several hours of conversation, the awkwardness from that day hadpletely dissipated. She found it incredible that she had talked so much with Zhong Shan. Since the destruction of her family, she had never spoken with anyone for so long, except for her master, Gusuzi.


    "Eight Gates Mountain holds one of the pieces," Bei Qingsi said softly.


    "One of the three pieces of evidence?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning as he looked at Bei Qingsi.


    "Yes," Bei Qingsi nodded gently.


    Zhong Shan looked at Bei Qingsi and shook his head, refraining from further persuasion. He knew he couldn''t change her mind, and besides, he wouldn''t be apanying her. It was better not to ask too many questions and trouble his mind.


    "Sigh," Zhong Shan sighed softly, feeling a deep sympathy for Bei Qingsi.


    Seeing Zhong Shan sigh, Bei Qingsi suddenly felt a warm sensation in her heart, a feeling she hadn''t experienced in a long time. Finally, she turned her head and, together with Zhong Shan, gazed at the setting moon.


    Zhong Shan''s insight into Bei Qingsi''s emotions had brought a rare sense offort to her. The moon, symbolizing a witness to their shared confidences, now set, taking with it a part of their burdens and sorrows. For that night, at least, they had found sce in each other''spany.


    The next day, just past noon.


    In the hall, the servants brought tea, gently cing it before Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er, and Bei Qingsi.


    After a night of heartfelt conversation, Bei Qingsi had managed to let go of her past embarrassment over being seen naked by Zhong Shan. A subtle bond of friendship seemed to have formed between them. It was a peculiar friendship, reminiscent of long-timepanions yet tinged with a faint ambiguity, a delicate mix of emotions that both chose to silently acknowledge and then forget.


    "Sister Qingsi, why didn''t youe out yesterday? I had something to ask you," Tian Ling''er said, looking at Bei Qingsi.


    "Uh, I had a bit of an epiphany yesterday," Bei Qingsi replied, slightly embarrassed.


    "Oh, that''s good then. Sister Qingsi, I want to ask you, how can I break through to the Golden Core stage?" Tian Ling''er quickly asked.


    "You''ve reached the tenth level of the Innate stage?" Bei Qingsi asked, surprised.


    "Yes, I want to reach the Golden Core stage during our uing training. When the year is up, I want to give my father a big surprise," Tian Ling''er said, her eyes shining with determination.


    Zhong Shan, sitting nearby, did not say much. He simply sipped his tea, enjoying the sight of the two peerless beauties conversing.


    Looking at Tian Ling''er with some astonishment, Bei Qingsi thought for a moment and said, "You''re now at the tenth level of the Innate stage, which means all your acupuncture points are fully opened. Your True Essence flows continuously. Now, you need to merge this True Essence into a unified whole within your acupuncture points, breathe in the spiritual energy of heaven and earth through these points, and refine your body into a state of primal unity. This is the Golden Core."


    Listening to Bei Qingsi, Zhong Shan also paid close attention. The Golden Core stage? So, the so-called Golden Core is refining oneself into a state of primal unity? A unified physical body is the Golden Core?


    "In other words, refining oneself into a Golden Core? A personal Golden Core?" Tian Ling''er asked after pondering for a moment.


    "I think it won''t be long before I can call you Junior Sister," Bei Qingsi said with a slight smile.


    Usually as cold as frost, Bei Qingsi rarely smiled. At this moment, showing a slight smile to Tian Ling''er, who was also a woman, left Tian Ling''er momentarily stunned.


    "Sister Qingsi, you look so beautiful when you smile," Tian Ling''er suddenly said.


    Upon hearing Tian Ling''er''s words, Bei Qingsi''s expression became serious, and her previous smile vanished.


    "Ling''er, you tter me," Bei Qingsi said calmly.


    "It''s true! If you don''t believe me, ask Zhong Shan. You''re really beautiful," Tian Ling''er said foolishly.


    With Tian Ling''er pointing him out, Zhong Shan could only cough lightly and nod.


    Seeing Zhong Shan nod, Bei Qingsi''s face turned an unprecedented shade of red, but she quickly changed the topic, "But there is one thing, Ling''er, you must pay attention to."


    "Uh?" Tian Ling''er immediately followed Bei Qingsi''s lead.


    "Breaking through to the Golden Core stage, merging your acupoints into a unified whole, is a long process. It cannot be rushed. When the timees, you might need to go into seclusion for a long period, without any interruptions. Therefore, it is best to wait until you return to Kaiyang Sect to attempt this breakthrough. For now, focus on umting true essence in your acupoints," Bei Qingsi advised after some thought.


    "Oh," Tian Ling''er nodded, feeling somewhat dissatisfied, realizing that reaching the Golden Core stage beforepleting their training was unlikely.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er''s expression, Bei Qingsi could guess why she was disappointed. She quickly added, "Breaking through to the Golden Core stage is not something to be taken lightly. It requires a long period of seclusion and sometimes a significant amount of spirit stones for assistance."


    "Spirit stones?" Zhong Shan looked at Bei Qingsi, a strange look in his eyes, as he had never encountered them before.


    Bei Qingsi nced at Zhong Shan and, after a moment of thought, exined, "A Golden Core stage cultivator has a lifespan of four hundred years. Achieving the Golden Core stage is exponentially more difficult than the Innate stage. Unless one has exceptional talent, it''s usually necessary to cultivate in ces rich in spiritual energy to continuously advance. That''s why cultivation and mountains are inseparable."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan expressed his surprise.


    "Mountains, in this context, refer to blessednds because only in these blessednds does spiritual energy converge in abundance. For instance, my Kaiyang Sect is rich in spiritual energy, whereas this ce is rtively barren. Areas with abundant spiritual energy are always fiercely contested by cultivators," Bei Qingsi continued.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan listened attentively.


    "Generally, without a blessednd, reaching the Golden Core stage is almost an individual''s limit because, at that stage, one''s lifespan is only four hundred years. However, there is something in the world that can store spiritual energy. That''s spirit stones," Bei Qingsi said.


    Zhong Shan furrowed his brows, listening intently. Tian Ling''er, though somewhat knowledgeable, was also listening patiently.


    Seeing Zhong Shan so focused, Bei Qingsi felt an inexplicable urge to exin it to him in detail.


    "Spirit stones are formed by concentrating spiritual energy within a special type of stone. The stone must be refined until it is transparent, only then is it a perfect spirit stone. Otherwise, it is useless. There are two types of spirit stones: red transparent yang spirit stones and blue transparent yin spirit stones," Bei Qingsi exined.


    With a turn of her hand, she produced two round stones, one blue and one red, and gently handed them to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan lightly grasped them, feeling the abundant spiritual energy contained within, almost as if it were about to burst forth.


    Tian Ling''er took one and examined it closely.


    "These two are yin spirit stones and yang spirit stones. Generally, having these two types of spirit stones allows you to continuously absorb spiritual energy to enhance yourself," Bei Qingsi said.


    "So, Golden Core stage cultivators are always in dire need of these spirit stones?" Zhong Shan asked, furrowing his brows in thought.


    "Yes, wherever there is a spirit stone mine, there is bound to be fierce fighting," Bei Qingsi said after some thought.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "In the cultivation world, spirit stones are also used as currency. With spirit stones, you can buy what you need," Bei Qingsi said softly.


    "Mm, based on what you said, if every Golden Core stage cultivator needs these spirit stones, then they must indeed be a fair standard of exchange," Zhong Shan said, nodding, understanding the concept of currency well.


    "Yes, spirit stones are categorized into upper, middle, and lower grades based on the amount of spiritual energy they contain, which is reflected in their color depth. These are middle-grade spirit stones. Upper-grade spirit stones are darker, while lower-grade spirit stones are much paler," Bei Qingsi exined.


    "Oh? How is their value determined?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "One upper-grade spirit stone is equivalent to ten middle-grade spirit stones, and one middle-grade spirit stone is equivalent to ten lower-grade spirit stones," Bei Qingsi said.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded,mitting this to memory.


    "Sister? Ling''er? Senior Brother is back," Yun Qian''s voice suddenly called out from outside.


    Their conversation was interrupted. Zhong Shan furrowed his brows and gently stood up. Tian Ling''er had already rushed out.


    Exchanging a nce with Bei Qingsi, Zhong Shan led her out of the hall as well.

 Chapter 53: Returning Home to Face Enemies

    <h4>Chapter 53: Returning Home to Face Enemies</h4>


    "Senior Brother, why have you returned so soon?"


    As soon as Zhong Shan stepped outside the main hall, he heard Tian Ling''er''s question.


    Standing outside the hall were ten people. Leading them was Tian Sha, with Yun Qian behind him, totaling eight people altogether.


    As Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi emerged, Tian Sha''s gaze locked onto Bei Qingsi.


    "Hao San is dead, so we had no choice but to return," a disciple of Kaiyang Sect immediately spoke up.


    "Hao San is dead?" Bei Qingsi stepped forward and inquired.


    "Indeed, he''s dead. His lifespan ran out, and he died beneath a mountain at the hour of the pig," Tian Sha replied, his eyes fixed on Bei Qingsi the whole time.


    Seeing Tian Sha''s expression, Bei Qingsi furrowed her brows slightly.


    "And what about Hao San''s corpse? Didn''t my father say that bringing it back to the sect could exchange it for fourth-grade elixirs?" Tian Ling''er asked promptly.


    "Fourth-grade elixirs? Hao San''s corpse is worth far more than that. At the time, there were more than just five people in the Yuanying stage," someone behind Tian Sha spoke up.


    "Yuanying stage?" Tian Ling''er widened her eyes. Pursuing someone to the Yuanying stage for the sake of a Nascent stage cultivator?


    At this moment, only Zhong Shan understood Hao San''s significance, evident from the "Heavenly Court" he had just obtained.


    "Qingsi, Master instructed me to apany you to Bamen Mountain. Let''s set off now," Tian Sha suddenly spoke up.


    "No need for that. Bamen Mountain isn''t dangerous. I can handle it alone," Bei Qingsi thought for a moment and said.


    Hearing Bei Qingsi''s words, Tian Sha furrowed his brows, but still insisted, "Since Master has instructed me to apany you, there must be a reason. Besides, we''re passing by Bamen Mountain on our mission this time, so havingpany would be beneficial."


    Bei Qingsi pondered for a moment, then nced at Zhong Shan, a hint of hesitation shing in her eyes, but ultimately nodded.


    The subtle change in Bei Qingsi didn''t escape Tian Sha''s notice. Why did she nce at that man? Tian Sha nced at Zhong Shan, the newly promoted disciple of Kaiyang Sect. Why did Bei Qingsi look at him? A hint of coldness shed in Tian Sha''s eyes, but he concealed it well and nodded at Bei Qingsi.


    However, that fleeting coldness was clearly seen by Zhong Shan. Though his expression remained unchanged, he stored Tian Sha''s momentary hostility in his mind, remaining vignt.


    "Senior Brother," Tian Ling''er looked at Tian Sha, about to speak up.


    At this moment, Tian Ling''er didn''t know what had gotten into her. Normally, she would have eagerly wanted to apany Tian Sha to Bamen Mountain, especially now that Zhong Shan had agreed, she should have immediately brought it up. But for some reason, Tian Ling''er hesitated. Casting a nce at Zhong Shan, she hesitated. Tian Ling''er didn''t know what came over her, unsure if she hoped Zhong Shan would stop her or encourage her.


    "Ling''er, do you want to go to Bamen Mountain too?" Yun Qian asked with a smile.


    Upon Yun Qian''s question, both Tian Ling''er and Tian Sha frowned.


    Tian Sha didn''t want Tian Ling''er to go, fearing that Bei Qingsi would notice Tian Ling''er''s admiration for him. And just as Tian Ling''er frowned, she inexplicably nced at Zhong Shan before nodding decisively, her expression resolute.


    Zhong Shan made no attempt to stop her, his expression indifferent. However, suddenly, his pupils contracted, then returned to normal.


    "Ling''er, you don''t have to go. Stay and help me with something," Zhong Shan suddenly spoke up.


    "Huh?" Tian Ling''er looked at Zhong Shan in confusion.


    Everyone turned to look at Zhong Shan. Was he going to entice Tian Ling''er to stay again with osmanthus cake?


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Tian Sha felt, for the first time, that this person wasn''t bad, and he added, "Yes, Ling''er, stay and help Zhong Shan."


    Bei Qingsi also looked at Zhong Shan in puzzlement.


    "Is it very important?" Tian Ling''er looked at Zhong Shan in confusion.


    "Yeah, I can''t do it without you," Zhong Shan nodded solemnly.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er nodded and said, "Okay."


    If it were before meeting Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er wouldn''t have agreed even if her father scolded her to stay by Tian Sha''s side. But at this moment, Tian Ling''er was willing, as if she had little interest in going with Tian Sha from the beginning. Now that Zhong Shan asked her to stay, and Tian Sha agreed, Tian Ling''er agreed without any hesitation.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er agree so readily, Tian Sha, who had previously hoped she would stay, frowned. He felt puzzled and as if he had lost something, then looked at Zhong Shan beside him, unable to figure out what was going on.


    "Well then, let''s go," Tian Sha said to Bei Qingsi with a puzzled expression.


    "Yeah," Bei Qingsi nodded. Then, she bid farewell to Tian Ling''er and Zhong Shan, and followed the others as they flew away on their flying swords.


    Watching Tian Sha fly away, Tian Ling''er felt a bit reluctant, but it wasn''t too heavy. Then, she turned her head to look at Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, what''s the matter?" Tian Ling''er asked naturally.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er''s calm attitude now,pared to her hysterical demeanorst time, Zhong Shan felt puzzled for a moment.


    "There are a few experts who might cause trouble at my old home. I might not be able to handle them alone, so I need your help," Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    "Don''t worry, if they''re causing trouble for you, they''re causing trouble for me too. I''ll definitely knock them down," Tian Ling''er said confidently immediately.


    Watching Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shan smiled slightly. "Good. Let''s set off now."


    Meanwhile, inside the Zhong Mansion in Xuan City, during the encounter with Tian Sha and the others.


    Hidden in his residence, Zhong Shan sat practicing cultivation when suddenly, a white dove flew into the courtyard.


    Sensing the dove''s arrival, Zhong Shan frowned, gently opened the door, and walked to the dovecote, retrieving a piece of paper from the dove''s leg.


    "The ancestors of the Zhao family, Qian family, and Sun family have arrived in Xuan City."


    With just this short message, Zhong Shan sensed a foreboding sense of danger. Xuan City, although near the capital, was mostly under Zhong Shan''s influence. There weren''t many forces from the royal family or the four major families here. So, why would three ancestral figures simultaneously arrive in Xuan City? There was a high probability that it was rted to plotting against the Zhong family.


    Looking at the sky outside the courtyard, Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, emitting a soft cold snort.


    This was also the reason why he suddenly stopped Tian Ling''er earlier.


    Three dayster, in the evening, Zhong Shan, carrying a big sword on his back, arrived at the gate of the Zhong Mansion.


    Seeing Zhong Shan, all the servants were first stunned, then incredibly respectful, bowing deeply as Zhong Shan entered the mansion.


    Tian Ling''er followed behind Zhong Shan, watching the numerous servants of the Zhong family bowing respectfully to Zhong Shan, curiosity filling her eyes.


    Not far away was a five-story high building, catching Tian Ling''er''s eyes instantly.


    "Zhong Shan, what''s that tall building over there? I want to go see," Tian Ling''er immediately eximed.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded and apanied Tian Ling''er towards the pagoda-like tower.


    The servants were surprised to hear the young woman address Master Zhong by his name directly, but no one dared toment.


    The tower stood five stories high. When they reached the base, Zhong Shan waved his hand, and all the servants dispersed.


    Tian Ling''er quickly ascended the tower, while Zhong Shan moved to a corner. There, a shadowy figure merged with his body in an instant. The shadow was none other than his hidden doppelg?nger. Once the fusion wasplete, Zhong Shan turned to a nearby steward.


    "Clean up the Tianxiang Courtyard. We have an esteemed guest staying there," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes, sir," the steward replied promptly, bowing before hurrying off.


    Zhong Shan then followed Tian Ling''er up the tower. By the time he caught up with her, she was already at the top, looking out over the entire city of Xuan. The bustling streets below filled her eyes with delight.


    When she saw Zhong Shan arrive, Tian Ling''er immediately said, "Zhong Shan, where''s your enemy? I''ll go beat him up."


    Zhong Shan shook his head with a smile. "In a few days, they''lle. It won''t be as simple as just beating them up; it''ll be a fight to the death."


    "Oh," Tian Ling''er nodded, clearly understanding the gravity of a life-and-death struggle.


    After dinner, Tian Ling''er once again tasted the local delicacies and was overjoyed. Compared to the food at Kaiyang Sect, the cuisine here was far superior. She thought about how wonderful it would be if the Kaiyang Sect were located here.


    After seeing Tian Ling''er off, Zhong Shan returned to a small courtyard and quickly reviewed thetest information.


    The three experts were of unknown cultivation levels but had entered the immortal gate fifty-two years ago, their power unfathomable.


    A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts.


    Zhong Shan frowned and looked towards therge gate of the courtyard. "Who is it?" he asked.


    "Master, a visitor with a golden token has arrived," the steward''s voice came from outside.


    A golden token? Zhong Shan had issued gold, silver, and bronze tokens to people based on their rtionship with him. The golden token was the highest level. Who could it be?


    Setting aside the documents, Zhong Shan walked across the courtyard and opened the gate. Outside stood a man wearing a conical hat and a ck robe, standing behind the steward.


    "You may leave," Zhong Shan instructed the steward.


    "Yes, sir," the steward quickly replied and left.


    "Dark Emperor,e in," Zhong Shan said to the robed man.


    "Yes, Master," the man replied immediately.


    Seeing the Dark Emperor still address him as "Master," Zhong Shan shook his head but said nothing more.


    Once inside the courtyard, the man removed his hat.


    "I never thought you''d one day walk out in the open," Zhong Shan said with a smile as he closed the door.


    "The master''s home is heavily guarded; I had no choice but toe openly," the Dark Emperor replied respectfully.


    Seeing the Dark Emperor''s serious demeanor, Zhong Shan sighed inwardly and led him to the hall.


    "Master, I recently received information that the Zhao, Qian, and Sun families intend to harm you," the Dark Emperor said gravely as soon as they entered the hall.


    "Naturally. If I hadn''t reached the Innate stage, they would have let me die of old age. But now that I have, with a lifespan of two hundred years, these thousand-year-old families are naturally rmed," Zhong Shan said, frowning.


    "Master''s prowess is unparalleled, which is why the three families are so anxious to act," the Dark Emperor said solemnly.


    "The three families? It''s not just them. This time, it won''t be only the three families. The Li family and the royal Su family will certainly have people involved too," Zhong Shan said, his eyes gleaming with wisdom.


    "Master, should we temporarily avoid their sharp edge?" the Dark Emperor suggested.


    "Avoid their sharp edge? We''ll see. I''ve invested a great deal in building the Zhong Mansion in Xuan City. I won''t abandon it unless absolutely necessary," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Understood," the Dark Emperor nodded.


    "Since you''re here, stay for a while. But don''t provoke Tian Ling''er in the Tianxiang Courtyard," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes," the Dark Emperor nodded.


    "Do we need to mobilize the Night Hall?" the Dark Emperor asked again.


    "It''s time for the Night Hall to act. In a few days, I''llpile a list and give it to you. Wait for mymand. We''re still missing a few pieces," Zhong Shan said, a cold light shing in his eyes.


    "Understood," the Dark Emperor nodded.

 Chapter 54: The Heroes of the Orchid

    <h4>Chapter 54: The Heroes of the Orchid</h4>


    In the great kingdom of Kun, within the bustling city of Xuan, a grand courtyard housed a significant assembly. Inside the main hall, eight individuals were seated, divided into two distinct rows.


    Four individuals upied the seats of honor, their presencemanding respect. Below them, in the subordinate row, sat four others whose status was evidently lower. Among these lower-ranked individuals were two familiar faces: the heads of the Zhao and Qian families, whom Zhong Shan had encountered over a year ago in Dragon Gate Valley.


    "Second Grandfather, hasn''t anyone from the imperial Su family arrived yet?" Zhao Family Head addressed one of the senior figures.


    The addressed elder nced at him and replied, "The Su family intends to use us to eliminate the Zhong family, reaping the benefits without expending any effort."


    "Zhong Shan? You all fear him this much? He''s only been in the Innate stage for just over a year. I could capture and kill him single-handedly," another ancestor scoffed.


    "Grandfather, don''t underestimate Zhong Shan. He is extremely formidable and dangerous. If he hadn''t reached the Innate stage, we could have waited for his natural end and taken everything from him. But now, with a lifespan of two hundred years at the Innate stage, and his talents likely preventing him from reaching the Golden Core stage, he will inevitably focus on worldly power and influence. That would spell disaster for our families," the Qian Family Head quickly exined.


    "Humph, you are unworthy of leading the Qian family," the Qian family''s ancestor retorted coldly. The thought that a mere merchant could instill such fear in a family head was intolerable.


    "No, Ancestor, it''s not that I''m weak. It''s that Zhong Shan is genuinely terrifying. It''s not just the Qian family; ask the Zhao, Sun, and Li family heads. We all understand this. So, while it''s embarrassing to request your intervention, if it can rid our families of this great threat, I am willing to relinquish my position as head," the Qian Family Head pleaded earnestly.


    Hearing this, the Qian family''s ancestor narrowed his eyes and looked at the other family heads. Their expressions mirrored the same concern.


    The four ancestors exchanged nces, their brows furrowing with the weight of the decision.


    "When do we act?" Zhao family''s ancestor asked bluntly.


    "Ancestor, dealing with Zhong Shan is not just a matter for our four families. The imperial family should be even more concerned. Let''s wait ten more days. If the imperial family remains inactive, we will storm the Zhong residence ourselves," proposed the Zhao Family Head.


    The others nodded in agreement.


    In the northeastern region of the Great Kun Kingdom, an inn had beenpletely taken over by a group of more than twenty individuals. All other patrons had been unceremoniously cleared out, and any martial artists who attempted to protest were swiftly dealt with by the guards at the door.


    At arge tableden with local delicacies, only two people were seated��a man and a woman. The woman, exuding a noble aura, was none other than Princess Qianyou, who had recently pursued Hao San. The man was the notorious yboy, Gu Lin. Beside them stood Mr. Shuijing, calmly fanning himself with a feather fan.


    Princess Qianyou was not eating but rather listening intently to a report from a man kneeling before her. Once the report was finished, she stood and paced back and forth, frowning in deep thought.


    "Qianyou, didn''t you say you wanted to try the local dishes? Why aren''t you eating?" Gu Lin asked, chopsticks in hand, looking puzzled.


    Princess Qianyou cast a disdainful nce at him and replied, "You go ahead."


    "What''s wrong?" Gu Lin put down his chopsticks and asked.


    Princess Qianyou turned to look at Mr. Shuijing, who was standing quietly to the side. Despite his silent stance, he continued to fan himself with a calm smile on his face.


    "Sir, what do you think?" Princess Qianyou asked Mr. Shuijing.


    "The princess already has her suspicions, why ask me?" Mr. Shuijing replied with a smile.


    Princess Qianyou''s eyes gleamed, as if something had just urred to her.


    Seeing the cryptic exchange between Princess Qianyou and Mr. Shuijing, Gu Lin asked impatiently, "Shuijing, what''s going on?"


    Mr. Shuijing sighed internally at his young master''s ignorance but exined nheless, "The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation in the Eight Gates Mountain has a ten percent chance of housing a formation spirit."


    "Only a ten percent chance?" Gu Lin frowned.


    To Princess Qianyou and Mr. Shuijing, ten percent was quite significant, but Gu Lin didn''t grasp the magnitude of it. Mr. Shuijing could only shake his head in silent resignation.


    "Ten percent is already quite a lot," Princess Qianyou exined, frowning.


    "In that case, let''s go there. If we find it, I''ll snatch it and give it to you, Qianyou," Gu Lin dered confidently.


    However, Princess Qianyou turned to Mr. Shuijing and said, "Sir, I will need your wisdom for this. If we obtain the formation spirit, I am willing to share it with you."


    "Share what? If we find it, I''ll decide and give it directly to you, Qianyou," Gu Lin interrupted.


    Mr. Shuijing could only shake his head again, sighing internally at the young master''s ignorance.


    "Shut up," Princess Qianyou snapped, genuinely irritated.


    "What did I do wrong by offering to give it to you?" Gu Lin asked, bewildered.


    Princess Qianyou was at a loss for words, but one thing was certain��she regretted bringing Gu Lin along.


    "Alright, let''s set off now," Princess Qianyou said, frowning.


    She then led the way, with Gu Lin by her side and the rest of the group following closely behind.


    In the Grand Kun Kingdom, on the third day of Dark Emperor''s arrival at the Zhong Residence in Xuancheng, Zhong Shan was at the top of the five-story pavilion. He meticulously reviewed the information that had been gathered from all directions, then stood at the top of the pavilion, gazing towards a distant residence. That ce was where the four family heads and their elders resided.


    With his hands sped behind his back, Zhong Shan stood, his eyes glinting with a cold light as he stared at that ce. Meanwhile, Tian Ling''er was by the pond in the Zhong Residence, learning to fish. At first, she was very enthusiastic, but after an hour with no catch, she grew increasingly impatient. Howe Zhong Shan could catch fish so easily, yet she couldn''t catch a single one? She even began to suspect that the fish might be trained by Zhong Shan.


    As her frustration mounted, Tian Ling''er nearly threw her fishing rod in exasperation, grumbling continuously as she cursed the fish in the pond. Zhong Shan, standing at the top of the pavilion, turned his head and saw Tian Ling''er poking the fish in the pond with the tip of her fishing rod. He couldn''t help but smile��no wonder she couldn''t catch any fish; she was scaring them away.


    Just as Zhong Shan was about to go down and guide her, he suddenly heard the sound of bells from above his head. Looking up, he saw a massive purple copper bell at the very top of the pavilion. Seeing the bell ring, Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with surprise, then softened with a loving smile. He swiftly descended the pavilion.


    The bell was not only in the pavilion but in many ces throughout the Zhong Residence. All the bells were ringing.


    Tian Ling''er, who was hitting the fish with her fishing rod, suddenly heard bells ringing from various eaves nearby. She quickly tossed aside her fishing rod, curious to see what was happening. Just then, she saw Zhong Shan hurrying along a corridor, and she immediately ran towards him, wondering if enemies were attacking.


    Catching up to Zhong Shan, she saw him rushing towards a secluded courtyard. Zhong Shan stopped outside the courtyard and stood, waiting patiently as if expecting someone to open the door from inside.


    "Zhong Shan, are the enemies here?" Tian Ling''er asked anxiously.


    Zhong Shan nced at her, shook his head, and smiled, "No, it''s a rtive of mine."


    "A rtive?" Tian Ling''er echoed, puzzled.


    Inside the courtyard, in a small house, a section of the floor in a corner suddenly parted. From beneath, a young woman swiftly emerged. She was stunningly beautiful, but more than that, she exuded a heroic spirit. Her confident face was full of excitement, and she wore slightly tight ck clothing that entuated her vibrant figure.


    The woman, who appeared to be around twenty years old, was brimming with excitement as she rushed out of the hidden entrance. After tapping a few times on the ground, the floorboards closed up again. She hurried to the courtyard door but hesitated with her hand on the handle, suddenly feeling a mix of anticipation and reluctance.


    "Ying Lan, open the door," Zhong Shan''s cheerful voice called from outside.


    Hearing this, Ying Lan''s face lit up with joy and determination. She took a deep breath, steadied herself, and opened the door to see Zhong Shan standing there with a warm smile.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s voice, though it sounded a bit different from before, younger somehow, the woman in tight ck clothes immediately recognized it��it was indeed Zhong Shan. Excitedly, Ying Lan opened the courtyard door with a bang.


    As the door swung open, Ying Lan''s eyes immediately focused on Zhong Shan,pletely ignoring Tian Ling''er. Despite the changes in Zhong Shan''s appearance from what she remembered, Ying Lan was certain it was him. She recognized Zhong Shan''s eyes��there was no mistaking it. It also seemed Zhong Shan had reached the Xiantian stage.


    Seeing the door open, Zhong Shan''s face lit up with a kind smile. Meanwhile, Tian Ling''er, for some inexplicable reason, suddenly felt a wave of nervousness. Her eyes locked onto the woman in the courtyard, filled with an inexplicable sense of hostility.


    Tian Ling''er quickly assessed the woman, noting her perfect, voluptuous figure and her sensuous attire. Inparison, Tian Ling''er felt like a little girl. Who was this woman? What was her rtionship with Zhong Shan? These questions swirled in Tian Ling''er''s mind, coupled with a growing sense of rivalry upon seeing Zhong Shan with such a beautiful woman.


    "G��y��y�� (Granduncle)!" Ying Lan suddenly shouted and rushed towards Zhong Shan, throwing her arms around him like a ko bear, wrapping her arms around his neck, and showing no intention of letting go.


    Seeing this affectionate and familiar gesture, Tian Ling''er felt a pang of jealousy but remained silent, watching the heartfelt reunion unfold. Zhong Shan, with a gentle smile, patted Ying Lan on the back, clearly happy to see her after a long time.

 Chapter 55: The Return of Ying Lan

    <h4>Chapter 55: The Return of Ying Lan</h4>


    Granduncle? Tian Ling''er felt as though she were dreaming. Granduncle? She calls Zhong Shan "Granduncle"? Grandpa?


    Tian Ling''er''s mind seemed to lose control momentarily, and her expression turned nk. The initial trace of hostility she felt dissipated, reced by curiosity as she looked at this woman again.


    Ying Lan clung to Zhong Shan, wrapping her arms around his neck, rubbing her head against him joyfully. Seeing Ying Lan sofortably and intimately clinging to Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er felt a surge of dissatisfaction again.


    For some reason, Tian Ling''er didn''t want to see any other woman behaving so familiarly with Zhong Shan, not even this Ying Lan who called him "Granduncle."


    "Alright, alright, it''s good that you''re back," Zhong Shan said with a happy face, hugged by Ying Lan.


    "Zhong Shan, Zhong Shan," Tian Ling''er called out immediately, wanting Zhong Shan to let go of Ying Lan. It wasn''t that Zhong Shan wasn''t trying to let go, it was Ying Lan who was refusing to release her hold on him.


    Hearing Tian Ling''er''s call from behind, Zhong Shan spoke up, "Okay, Ying Lan, you need to let go now."


    "No," Ying Lan said stubbornly, refusing to let go.


    Ying Lan''s response made Tian Ling''er even more frustrated. She didn''t know where this anger came from, but she felt extremely displeased.


    "Zhong Shan," Tian Ling''er called out again.


    Zhong Shan, feeling very happy, realized now wasn''t the time to enjoy this family reunion due to Tian Ling''er''s repeated calls.


    "Alright, Ying Lan, I''m finding it hard to breathe," Zhong Shan said.


    "Then I''ll loosen my grip a bit," Ying Lan said, holding on to Zhong Shan but not letting go.


    Zhong Shan smiled helplessly.


    "Alright, Ying Lan, we''ll catch upter. We have a guest here," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head with a smile.


    "Okay, fine," Ying Lan said, albeit reluctantly. However, even as she let go of Zhong Shan''s neck, she immediatelytched onto his arm, her ample bosom pressing tightly against Zhong Shan''s left arm.


    Seeing Ying Lan''s reluctance to let go, Tian Ling''er felt another wave of irritation but didn''t know what to do about it. She could only feign nonchnce and asked Zhong Shan, "Zhong Shan, who is she?"


    However, anyone could tell from her tone that she was in a very bad mood.


    Looking at Tian Ling''er and then at Ying Lan, Zhong Shan''s previously joyful expression suddenly dimmed. "Ying Lan is Kui''er''s younger brother''s granddaughter."


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s expression darken, Ying Lan seemed to sense his sadness and gently shook his left arm.


    Kui''er? Zhong Shan''s wife? Kui''er''s younger brother''s granddaughter? Tian Ling''er looked at Ying Lan in surprise and then saw Zhong Shan''s sorrowful expression, deciding not to ask any further questions.


    "Granduncle, Grand-aunt has passed away. Please don''t be sad anymore. We need to avenge her in the future," Ying Lan said softly, holding Zhong Shan''s arm.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan turned to look at Ying Lan, nodded, and a tender smile appeared on his face. He gently reached out with his right hand and stroked Ying Lan''s hair.


    Ying Lan seemed to enjoy it immensely, letting Zhong Shan stroke her hair. Zhong Shan''s face was full of affection, but Tian Ling''er, standing nearby, was not happy at all. She pouted, and her nose made a humming sound in annoyance.


    "Granduncle, has Bao''er Grand-aunt returned?" Ying Lan asked again.


    "Do you still remember Bao''er?" Zhong Shan asked Ying Lan with some confusion.


    "Although Bao''er Grand-aunt left when I was very young, I still have some impressions of her. Besides, twelve years ago, when I left, Granduncle, you were always talking about her, so of course, I remember," Ying Lan replied immediately.


    "She should be back soon," Zhong Shan said with a bitter smile.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s expression, Ying Lan quickly understood the situation and tactfully didn''t bring up the topic again. However, she looked at the humming Tian Ling''er with a hint of hostility.


    "Granduncle, is she your new concubine?" Ying Lan asked tentatively.


    "I am not!" Tian Ling''er immediately shouted, looking at Ying Lan with a face full of anger.


    Zhong Shan turned to Tian Ling''er, shook his head, and smiled. "No, she''s not."


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s denial, Tian Ling''er inexplicably felt a sense of disappointment, while Ying Lan''s eyes lit up, and her smile grew even brighter. She cast a triumphant nce at Tian Ling''er, who gritted her teeth in frustration.


    "Prepare a Golden Dragon Banquet. Celebrate within the Zhong Mansion, and reward everyone," Zhong Shan instructed a servant waiting in the corridor.


    "Yes, sir," the servant replied respectfully before quickly leaving to carry out the orders.


    The Golden Dragon Banquet was the highest standard of feast in the Zhong Mansion, only prepared for special asions like Ying Lan''s return.


    That day, every servant in the Zhong Mansion was overjoyed, celebrating the rewards and the grand feast. Everyone got to enjoy the best food.


    In thergest hall of the Zhong Mansion, eight tables were filled with dishes, but only Zhong Shan, Ying Lan, and Tian Ling''er were there to eat. Ying Lan was ustomed to this style of dining, carrying a small te to pick her favorite dishes. Tian Ling''er, on the other hand, was experiencing this for the first time, her eyes wide with amazement at the abundance of food. Could three people really finish all these dishes?


    Ying Lan was lively and active, picking dishes for herself and often serving Zhong Shan, chatting andughing with him constantly. She stayed close to Zhong Shan the entire time.


    Zhong Shan was overjoyed with the return of his family. As for Tian Ling''er, seeing Ying Lan staying close to Zhong Shan, she puffed up her cheeks in frustration and also stayed by Zhong Shan''s side, refusing to leave.


    The courtyards of the four great families��Zhao, Qian, Sun, and Li��were abuzz with tension.


    "ording to our spies, Zhong Manor is hosting a grand banquet today. Do we know why?" Patriarch Zhao asked, his brows furrowed.


    "Zhong Shan is a man who is hard to fathom. A grand banquet at this time? Doesn''t he know we are here?" Patriarch Qian responded, equally puzzled.


    "With Zhong Shan''s capabilities, he is surely aware of our presence in Xuancheng," Patriarch Zhao continued, his frown deepening as he pondered.


    "Is he inviting allies to join the fight?" Patriarch Qian spected, his expression tense.


    "Allies? Even if he is inviting help, who could he possibly bring? Besides, on the day of the Longmen Conference, only his adopted son Zhong Tian resisted the temptation of the Immortal Gate. At most, he can only count on Zhong Tian. We four, along with our four ancestors, can handle whomever he brings," Patriarch Zhao mused, his face etched with thought.


    "We must not underestimate Zhong Shan at any moment," Patriarch Qian cautioned.


    "Indeed," Patriarch Zhao nodded in agreement.


    After the grand banquet, in a secret chamber within Zhong Manor, only two figures sat��Zhong Shan and Ying Lan��cross-legged before a low table bearing a teapot and two cups.


    Ying Lan poured tea into the cups and spoke thoughtfully, her brow furrowed. "Master, it''s strange. Over these years, when your carriage took me to that ce, was it another world? Here, including Da Kun Country, there are six nations, but in that ce, there were only five nations, and they were at war every year." She handed a cup of clear tea to Zhong Shan.


    "It''s not another world, just a mortal kingdom separated by these towering mountains. Except for the people of the Immortal Gate, except for us, mortals cannot cross those mountains to reach another realm," Zhong Shan replied, taking a sip of tea.


    "Master, you''re truly amazing," Ying Lan admired, looking at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly and said, "You enjoy warfare, so I provided you with the source of great battles there. How did you fare?"


    "Master, because of you, the Chat Kingdom could stand at the heart of the four nations. Without you, the Chat Kingdom would have declined within a few years and faced extinction. That day, when I was sixteen, I went to the declining Grand Tutor''s Mansion with your token, where you used to reside. At that time, you didn''t know, but as soon as someone informed them, the former lord of the kingdom hurried over without even putting on his shoes, begging and worshiping me. Then I took control of the military,manding all three armies," Ying Lan eximed excitedly.


    ncing at Ying Lan with a smile, Zhong Shan took another sip of tea and listened intently.


    "It seems that the people of the Chat Kingdom blindly worship you, Master. They didn''t care that I was only sixteen at the time. Even the generals were convinced. And those who resisted were swiftly dealt with. With military authority in hand, I led the troops into battle."


    "You, a woman leading troops into battle��what did others say about that?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Of course, the generals were convinced, but the foot soldiers were not, at first. However, it didn''t matter. Within a month, I had them all obedient. The Chat Kingdom is and of constant warfare, surrounded by enemies on all sides. I was in dire straits at the time, but leading the troops, I conquered all opposition. After a few battles, no one dared to defy me," Ying Lan boasted proudly, her nose in the air.


    "Is that so?" Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "Of course! Everything I''ve achieved is thanks to your teachings, Master. If you don''t believe in me, at least believe in yourself. Over these dozen years, I''ve brought prosperity to the Chat Kingdom, while the other three nations have been pushed back. In twelve years, the Chat Kingdom has be a superpower. As long as I''m there, with another opportunity, within four years, we''ll conquer the other three nations. But if I leave, the Chat Kingdom will suffer again. It serves them right," Ying Lan said indignantly.


    "Oh? Did the emperor of the Chat Kingdom offend our little princess?" Zhong Shan teased.


    "What little princess? I don''t want that title," Ying Lan blushed suddenly.


    "Hahaha, alright, we won''t use it then. Tell me, what happened next? I know that old emperor well. Even if he''s clueless, he wouldn''t dare to provoke you unless he dies and his third son seeds him," Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "Master, have you been there? How do you know the old emperor died and his third son seeded him?" Ying Lan asked in amazement.


    "The old emperor had four sons. The eldest was steady butcked cunning. His mother, the empress, died early, leaving him with no backing. Although he was the crown prince, he was eventually framed and ousted. The second son, Tai Yin, was born under an evil star and was bold but foolish. He would surelymit some crime and be deposed. The fourth son was too timid. Unless the courtiers usurp the throne, it couldn''t be him. Only the third son, he''s cunning enough, but not clever. He has an advisor, though, and that''s the key. This advisor may not have much talent, but he''s good at deceiving, leading to your early departure," Zhong Shan exined with a smile.


    Listening to Zhong Shan''s analysis, Ying Lan''s eyes sparkled. She had never doubted Zhong Shan, but his precise analysis of the Chat Kingdom''s situation after his departure filled her with admiration once again.

 Chapter 56: Welcoming Guests

    <h4>Chapter 56: Weing Guests</h4>


    "Yes, Master, it''s exactly as you said. There''s no one in this world that you can''t see through," Ying Lan eximed excitedly.


    ncing at Ying Lan, Zhong Shan suddenly thought of a few of his adopted sons who had betrayed him. Shaking his head, a hint of sigh passed through his eyes. "It''s because the Chat Kingdom''s royal family isn''tplicated enough, and they''re all mediocre talents. That''s why they''re easy to see through. And also, as they say, ''the one in the midst of it is confused.''"


    Being confused by being in the midst of it also meant that Zhong Shan hadn''t seen through the hearts of a few adopted sons. This made Zhong Shan constantly reflect and ponder on how the remaining adopted sons would fare.


    However, Ying Lan didn''t notice Zhong Shan''s change in expression. She continued, "The new emperor, under that advisor''s, no, now he''s a high-ranking official''s, urging, wanted to marry me as his empress. But in the end, he threatened me by forcing me to surrender my military power. I was furious and refused. So, I came back. Let him regret it. Except for me, the Chat Kingdom''smander-in-chief, everyone else is just puppets, destined to be defeated by the other four nations sooner orter."


    Watching Ying Lan huffing angrily, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but chuckle. Let here back if she wanted to. But from what Ying Lan said, it could be seen that she already had the talent of a top general.


    "So, has my dear Ying Lan set her sights on anyone? If so, I''ll arrange a marriage proposal for you. If he refuses, I''ll snatch you a bridegroom," Zhong Shan joked.


    "No, no, my man must surpass Master, otherwise, Ying Lan will never marry," Ying Lan replied anxiously.


    "Well, that might be a bit difficult," Zhong Shanughed. From Ying Lan''s tone, it seemed that she hadn''t found anyone she admired yet. But that was fine. If she didn''t find someone she liked, then so be it. Previously, there were limitations due to the lifespan, but now that Zhong Shan had advanced in his cultivation, Ying Lan would surely follow suit as his lifespan increased.


    "Master, have some tea," Ying Lan immediately poured another cup of tea for Zhong Shan.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded and took a sip.


    In that moment when Zhong Shan lowered his head, Ying Lan nced at him, and a hint of infatuation flickered in her eyes.


    After taking a sip of tea, Zhong Shan looked up again and said to Ying Lan, "Since you''re back, don''t fight for the Chat Kingdom anymore. Fight for me instead."


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Ying Lan visibly paused, then looked at Zhong Shan and said, "Master, aren''t you pursuing immortality anymore? Besides, you have already reached the Innate Realm. Why focus on the country?"


    "Immortality is not that easy. I want to establish a celestial dynasty. With the celestial dynasty ruling the world, it will be easier to pursue immortality," Zhong Shan furrowed his brows.


    What Zhong Shan said about establishing a celestial dynasty and pursuing immortality seemed unrted, but out of admiration for Zhong Shan, Ying Lan immediately chose to believe and looked at Zhong Shan excitedly. Unify the world? What a grand ambition! Only Master could have such audacity. Who under the heavens could surpass him?


    "Master, are you nning to unify the six nations?" Ying Lan asked.


    "Unify the six nations? That''s just the first step. Then it''s thend of the five nations you went to. After unifying the six nations, I will quickly unify the five nations over there. Then, with the people of the world, I will open up the mountains and rivers that separate the two ces, creating an evenrger territory, and expand the world further," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Well, Ying Lan will definitely help Master," Ying Lan eximed excitedly.


    "Establishing a country is not as simple as you think. Perhaps there are endless dangers ahead. I will encounter countless enemies, not only mortals but also immortal cultivators. The road ahead may be thorny, or it may be a dead end. Are you still willing to apany me?" Zhong Shan furrowed his brows and looked at Ying Lan.


    "Wherever Master goes, I''ll go," Ying Lan immediately replied.


    Watching Ying Lan, Zhong Shan sighed inwardly. While he was moved, he also constantly reminded himself that he must find a way to leave a way out for Ying Lan because once he made a decision, there was no turning back. As for Ying Lan, he couldn''t let her be bound like this.


    Next, Zhong Shan and Ying Lan continued to chat about past trivial matters and anecdotes from their time leading the three armies.


    The final day of the Zhao family''s deliberation to attack Zhong Manor arrived. The powerful figures had waited for ten days, but there was no sign of the Su family from the imperial court. Thus, they had no choice but to prepare to strike Zhong Manor tonight. With the four Great Masters in the Advanced Innate Stage and the four Great Masters in the Initial Innate Stage, dealing with a mortal family��or rather, dealing with a royal family��was more than enough. However, the family heads still waited for the optimal moment. It was night.


    However, because of the wait by the four family heads, Zhong Manor unexpectedly received another ally.


    Zhao Suoxiang rode on a white horse with a silver spear in hand, galloping towards Xuancheng. As he approached the city gates of Xuancheng and saw Zhong Manor, a frown creased his brow.


    "Xuancheng? Zhong Manor? I missed the hunting of Haosan due to urgent matters. My junior brother mentioned that a person named Zhong Shan met his end in the snake''s belly. I wonder if it''s someone I know. But in Zhao Suoxiang''s heart, Zhong Shan shouldn''t be someone short-lived."


    Although Zhong Shan had joined the Kaiyang Sect, Xuancheng was Zhong Shan''s hometown. Last time, Zhong Shan had invited him to visit, so now that he was here, he naturally wanted to take a look.


    Upon reaching the city gate, Zhao Suoxiang dismounted and looked towards one of the gatekeepers.


    "How do I get to Zhong Manor in Xuancheng?" Zhao Suoxiang asked the gatekeeper.


    "Zhong Manor?" The gatekeeper hesitated for a moment.


    "Mr. Zhao, this way, please," a man suddenly approached respectfully from outside the gate.


    ncing at the man, Zhao Suoxiang furrowed his brow, obviously not recognizing him, while the gatekeeper wore a respectful expression.


    "Mr. Zhao, I am a servant of Zhong Manor. We have been waiting for you here for some time. The old master showed us your portrait. As soon as Mr. Zhao arrives, he will definitely be treated as an honored guest and escorted into Zhong Manor," the man said respectfully.


    "Is Zhong Shan in the manor?" Zhao Suoxiang furrowed his brow.


    After Zhao Suoxiang spoke, the gatekeepers beside him all widened their eyes. Zhong Shan? Who was Zhong Shan? How could he be so casually addressed by Zhao Suoxiang? However, the reply from the weing man surprised all the gatekeepers.


    "Yes, the old master is in the manor," the man said without a hint of anger, respectfully.


    "Lead the way," Zhao Suoxiang said directly. Mounting his horse again, no one dared to stop him. Under the guidance of the man, he quickly headed towards Zhong Manor.


    Meanwhile, inside Zhong Manor, Zhong Shan had already received the news of Zhao Suoxiang''s arrival. Zhao Suoxiang''s arrival filled Zhong Shan with joy.


    Quickly leading Ying Lan and Tian Ling''er to the door, Zhong Shan arrived just as Zhao Suoxiang did.


    "Hahaha, Zhao Suoxiang, what wind blew you to Xuancheng?" Zhong Shan greeted with augh.


    Tian Ling''er knew Zhao Suoxiang, but Ying Lan didn''t recognize him. She looked at him with some confusion, evidently puzzled by his presence and the warm wee he received from Master.


    "Passing by here, I heard you were devoured by a snake, but I didn''t believe it at all. So, I came to confirm. Since you''re fine, it seems the rumors were baseless," Zhao Suoxiang dismounted andughed.


    "Entered the snake''s belly indeed, but I was fortunate enough toe out alive. Come, let''s go inside," Zhong Shan said immediately.


    "Alright," Zhao Suoxiang nodded, and his white horse was naturally taken care of by someone.


    Entering the hall, servants promptly served tea. There were four people present: Zhong Shan, Zhao Suoxiang, Tian Ling''er, and Ying Lan.


    "This is Ying Lan, and this is Ling''er, whom you know," Zhong Shan introduced briefly.


    "Ah," Zhao Suoxiang merely nodded.


    "You passed by Xuancheng. Do you have any other business?" Zhong Shan frowned and asked.


    "Not really. Just came to see what''s going on," Zhao Suoxiang chuckled.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "To the east of Xuancheng, there''s chaos at Bamen Mountain recently. I missed Haosan''s death, so this time, I''m going to take a look," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "Bamen Mountain?" Zhong Shan''s tea cup ttered as he looked at Zhao Suoxiang in surprise. Bamen Mountain was where Bei Qingsi and Tian Sha went, right?


    "Yes, Bamen Mountain is in chaos now. Many cultivators have been injured or killed. I heard that some people from Kaiyang Sect were also casualties," Zhao Suoxiang said casually, taking a sip of tea.


    "What? People from Kaiyang Sect died there? How is Senior Brother Tian Sha doing now?" Tian Ling''er immediately became concerned.


    "Senior Brother?" Zhao Suoxiang looked at Tian Ling''er with surprise. Tian Sha was the second senior brother of Kaiyang Sect, but wasn''t Tian Ling''er in the Golden Core Stage?


    "Yes, who died from Kaiyang Sect?" Zhong Shan asked immediately.


    As the conversation shifted, Zhao Suoxiang''s gaze also turned to Zhong Shan. "I''m not sure. I only heard about the casualties from the big battle. Various sects suffered losses."


    "What exactly happened?" Zhong Shan furrowed his brow.


    "It happened not long ago. Suddenly, something big urred at Bamen Mountain, and then strange events followed one after another," Zhao Suoxiang frowned as he spoke.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan''s curiosity was piqued.


    "Bamen Mountain isn''t actually a major mountain range. Few cultivators visit it regrly, but there''s a small sect located there called the ''Golden Lock Sect.'' It''s very deste, with only one person inside. I heard he''s very old and hasn''t taken any disciples. With just one person, nobody really pays attention to it. However, just a few days ago, there was a sudden earthquake in Bamen Mountain, followed by what seemed like the roar of a dragon, and then arge number of spirit stones gushed out from underground. They soared into the sky, a massive amount of spirit stones. People from nearby sects immediately wanted to seize the area and begin mining," Zhao Suoxiang exined.


    "What? The roar of a dragon?" Zhong Shan immediately stood up, his eyes radiating intense light.


    "Uh, yes, the roar urred nine times. It might have been caused by some wild dragon being startled by the earthquake," Zhao Suoxiang looked at Zhong Shan with some confusion.


    "Nine times? Are you sure it was nine times?" Zhong Shan eximed.


    Nodding with a puzzled look at Zhong Shan, Zhao Suoxiang confirmed, his eyes showing a hint of doubt.


    Shaking his head as he looked at Zhao Suoxiang, Zhong Shan said, "I lost myposure. Since nearby sects arepeting for it, it shouldn''t take this long. Will you bete if you go now?"


    ncing at Zhong Shan, Zhao Suoxiang smiled faintly. "I haven''t finished yet. What''s truly strange is that after the powerful figures from various sects rushed there, they found that an enormous array had inexplicably appeared in Bamen Mountain."


    P.S. New week, seeking rmendation votes to support the story. (^__^)...

 Chapter 57: The Nine Dragons Guarding the Heavenly Jade

    <h4>Chapter 57: The Nine Dragons Guarding the Heavenly Jade</h4>


    "An array? Was it arranged by the Golden Lock Sect''s leader?" Zhong Shan asked, furrowing his brow. Although he didn''t yet understand the intricacies of immortal sect formations, judging from the strangeness of the situation, it wasn''t difficult to guess that it was set up by the leader of the Golden Lock Sect.


    "Yes, indeed. Originally, the powerful figures from nearby sects mobilized, thinking it wouldn''t be difficult to deal with the leader of the Golden Lock Sect. However, the array he set up was quite remarkable. The experts from various sects suffered setbacks one after another. Even after entering the array, they began killing each other. After being released by the leader of the Golden Lock Sect, they continued fighting due to enmity formed within the array, resulting in countless casualties," Zhao Suoxiang exined, his brow furrowed.


    "What kind of array?" Tian Linger immediately asked.


    "The Eight Gates Golden Lock Array," Zhao Suoxiang replied.


    "The Eight Gates Golden Lock Array?" Tian Linger eximed. Even Zhong Shan and the nearby Englisn furrowed their brows.


    The Eight Gates Golden Lock Array? Retreat, Life, Injury, Duress, Scenery, Death, Astonishment, and Open. This was a battlefield formation. Even if Tian Linger knew about it, Zhong Shan and Englisn were also familiar with this array. But just this one Eight Gates Golden Lock Array managed to hold back numerous cultivators?


    Seeing everyone''s confusion, Zhao Suoxiang shook his head. "The Eight Gates Golden Lock Array, I''m also familiar with this battlefield formation. I''ve arranged it before when leading troops. However, the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array in Bamen Mountain must be different from what I know. It must be more advanced. That''s why I want to go and see."


    Englisn nced at Zhong Shan, while Tian Linger also looked at him. Zhong Shan, at this moment, furrowed his brow in contemtion.


    "Zhong Shan, are you going to take a look?" Zhao Suoxiang asked.


    "Zhong Shan, let''s go and take a look. I want to see if Senior Brother is okay," Tian Linger suddenly looked at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan frowned, looking at Tian Linger, unsure of what she was thinking.


    "Really, I just wanted to see if Senior Brother is still alive, for thest time," Tianling said immediately.


    Tianling''s expression wasplex. For some reason, in front of Zhongshan, she suddenly didn''t want to mention Tiansha, or at least didn''t want Zhongshan to think she had any connection with Tiansha. However, the admiration that had formed over many years was not something that could be worn away in a short time. But from Tianling''s words "for thest time," it could be seen that the glorious image of Tiansha in Tianling''s heart was gradually fading away.


    Looking at Tianling, Zhongshan thought for a moment and said, "Alright, after these two days pass and we''ve dealt with the enemies of my Zhong family, we''ll set off."


    "Okay," Tianling''s face lit up with a bright smile.


    On the side, Yinn''s eyes were rolling around as if she were thinking about something.


    "Enemies? Who are they?" Zhao Suoxiang frowned.


    "The heads of the four major families of the Great Kun Nation, and their four ancestors. Those who entered the immortal sect with you a year ago, you might still know some of them," Zhongshan said.


    "Oh? Is that so, when?" Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes shed with excitement.


    "There''s an eighty percent chance it''ll be tonight, at thetest, tomorrow," Zhongshan said.


    "Grandpa, how do you know it''s tonight?" Yinn looked at Zhongshan strangely.


    Turning to look at Yinn, Zhongshan smiled, "The endurance of the four major family heads, they''ve reached their limit by today, or at most, tomorrow, I''ve overestimated them."


    "Okay," Yinn nodded, trusting Zhongshan''s judgment.


    "Then tonight, I''ll apany you to guard against the enemy," Zhao Suoxiang suddenly said with a smile.


    "They have no grudge against you, there''s no need for you to participate," Zhongshan suddenly said.


    "No, my cultivation requiresbat, the long spear needs blood," Zhao Suoxiang insisted.


    "Alright, then Zhongshan will thank you here," Zhongshan smiled.


    "No need to be so polite," Zhao Suoxiang smiled.


    "Well, you rest for a while for now, they should strike at night," Zhongshan said.


    "Alright," Zhao Suoxiang nodded.


    "Ling''er, you also adjust your state, there''s a big battle tonight, and you are the main force," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Okay," Tianling nodded heavily.


    Then, Zhao Suoxiang was led to a quiet room, and Tianling returned to her room. Tianling was heavily burdened at the moment and didn''t have the mood to care about Yinn''s intimate behavior towards Zhongshan just now. Worried about the Eight Gates Mountain area, she needed to calm down.


    As the two left, Yinn immediately sat down beside Zhongshan.


    "Grandpa, what are you going to do at Bamen Mountain? I don''t believe you''re just going to see the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation and Senior Brother," Yinn''s eyes sparkled as she looked at Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan chuckled and flicked Yinn''s small nose with his finger. "You''re quite clever. Knew you''d ask."


    "Of course, I''m like a worm in Grandpa''s belly. Grandpa, just now you seemed to attach great importance to the Dragon''s Song. Is it rted to this?" Yinn asked again.


    Taking a sip of tea, Zhongshan neither confirmed nor denied.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s silence, Yinn immediately hugged Zhongshan''s arm and shook it. "Grandpa, just tell me, don''t tease me."


    Watching Yinn act coquettishly, Zhongshan shook his head and smiled. "You''re right. The Nine Dragon''s Song has a treasure hidden in Bamen Mountain. It might not mean much to others, but for the founding of my country in the future, it''s of great use."


    "What? What is it?" Yinn immediately widened her eyes, excitement shing in them.


    "The Nine Dragon''s Heavenly Jade," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "The Nine Dragon''s Heavenly Jade? What''s that?" Yinn frowned, evidently never having heard of it before.


    Zhongshan smiled at Yinn. This Nine Dragon''s Heavenly Jade was something he had seen in the "Forging Heaven Court," and naturally, others wouldn''t recognize it.


    "You have a lot to learn," Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Then I want to go too," Yinn said immediately.


    "No, you haven''t reached the Innate Realm yet. It''s too dangerous to go," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "No, Grandpa, I''ve studied the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation extensively, and I''ve led troops for many years, so I''m very proficient inbat. Bringing me along will definitely be beneficial. Maybe I can even help you, Grandpa," Yinn immediately shook Zhongshan''s arm and coquettishly pleaded.


    Hearing Yinn''s words, Zhongshan frowned slightly, seeming to have some inclination, but he quickly shook his head. "No, it''s too dangerous."


    "If you don''t take me, Grandpa, I''ll go alone," Yinn pouted immediately.


    Looking at Yinn, Zhongshan shook his head, a hint of helplessness on his face. If she went alone? Zhongshan would be even more worried.


    "Alright, but you must listen to me," Zhongshan sighed.


    "I knew Grandpa would be best to me," Yinn pressed Zhongshan''s hand against her chest, squeezing it so tightly it almost deformed.


    "But, we have to deal with tonight first," Zhongshan said.


    "Of course, those people who dare to enter the Zhong Manor will regret it. Grandpa, you just watch me tonight," Yinn''s eyes shed with determination.


    "Yes, there are eight of them. Given the hypocritical nature of the heads of the four major families, they''ll surely talk a lot. You just observe them and attack when necessary. There''s also a distinguished guest in the Zhong Manor who will assist secretly. If you see him, don''t act against him," Zhongshan exined.


    "Who is it?" Yinn immediately asked in surprise.


    "He doesn''t want others to know about him, but he definitely has no ill intentions towards the Zhong Manor. I can assure you of that," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Oh, okay," Yinn nodded obediently, no longer asking further questions.


    At midnight, within the Zhong Manor, it was pitch ck and silent. At the top of the five-story tower, Zhongshan, Tianling, and Zhao Suoxiang sat cross-legged, quietly awaiting.


    Outside the Zhong Manor, however, eight figures suddenly appeared. Four of them appeared to be around thirty years old, and the other four around forty, all seeming to defer to the seemingly younger ones among them.


    The eight figures simultaneously leaped onto the roofs of the Zhong Manor and proceeded towards the interior. Having nned for this moment, they naturally knew Zhongshan''s usual whereabouts and leaped towards the interior.


    But halfway there.


    "Whoosh" "Whoosh"...


    A series of sounds suddenly illuminated the entire Zhong Manor, with a burst of firelight illuminating the interior.


    In an instant, the eight figures were exposed under the bright lights.


    The eight figures halted their steps, realizing they had been discovered. At this moment, they were right in front of the five-story tower.


    Zhongshan, apanied by Zhao Suoxiang and Tianling, walked to the railing and looked down together.


    "The heads of the four major families, unexpectedly visiting my Zhong Manor in the dead of night. Why not announce your arrival beforehand?" Zhongshan stood on the tower, smiling as he looked down at the eight figures on the rooftop below.


    "Zhongshan," the head of the Zhao family narrowed his eyes, staring at Zhongshan.


    As the head of the Zhao family spoke, the four elderly ancestors with youthful appearances also turned their gaze towards Zhongshan, their targets for this visit.


    Seeing the four formidable figures, equivalent to Zhao Suoxiang, staring at him, Zhongshan showed no signs of fear. Instead, a faint smile crept onto his lips. "And who might these four be? So young and unfamiliar, could they be the illegitimate children of the heads of the four major families? Congrattions, congrattions."


    Zhongshan''s words were sharp, enough to make even the mostposed individuals seethe with anger.

 Chapter 58: The Terrifying Zhongshan

    <h4>Chapter 58: The Terrifying Zhongshan</h4>


    "Splutter~" Tianling couldn''t hold it in and burst intoughter at Zhongshan''s words. And though Zhao Suoxiang didn''tugh, the twitching muscles on his face revealed his struggle to contain it.


    The elderly ancestors of the four major families below, despite their anger, were cunning and held it in, looking at the two figures beside Zhongshan.


    The woman in red, although unknown to most, had been the subject of recent gossip. It was said that Zhongshan had brought back a woman from outside��was she Zhongshan''s concubine? As for the other figure, the four elderly ancestors focused their attention on him.


    During the day, when news of a visitor arrived, they had thought it was someone Zhongshan had called for help. But they hadn''t expected it to be Zhao Suoxiang?


    Zhao Suoxiang of the Great Song Dynasty might not be recognized by the heads of the four major families, but the elderly ancestors vaguely remembered him. Even the Zhao family''s ancestor recognized Zhao Suoxiang. They were all surnamed Zhao.


    "Zhao Danchen, long time no see," Zhao Suoxiang aimed his spear at Zhao Danchen, a cold smirk on his face.


    "Iron Spear Gate, Zhao Suoxiang?" the Zhao family ancestor narrowed his eyes, a hint of surprise shing in them. Indeed, Zhongshan was not simple. Being at the Innate Realm was one thing, but making such acquaintances in just over a year was remarkable.


    "You still remember me? Good, for the sake of myte uncle killed on the battlefield, I''m here to avenge my family," Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes turned cold.


    "Zhao Suoxiang, today''s matter concerns only Zhongshan. You have nothing to do with it. Leave now, and we won''t trouble you," Zhao Danchen said coldly.


    "Trouble? Hahaha, what a joke. You barge in without invitation, and I''m supposed to let you leave?" Zhongshan suddenlyughed.


    "Old Zhao, no need to waste words with him. After killing Zhongshan, we''ll leave too," the Qian family ancestor said.


    "Alright," Zhao Danchen replied.


    At this moment, Zhongshan simply smiled faintly, a hint of brightness shing in his eyes. He was waiting, waiting for the other side to make the first move because Zhongshan had already made arrangements earlier.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s expression, Zhao Danchen frowned slightly, feeling something was amiss. However, on the tower, there were only three people, and all was quiet around them. It was impossible for anyone to be lurking here. With so many strong individuals on their side, as long as one person held off Zhao Suoxiang, killing Zhongshan wouldn''t be difficult.


    "Attack!" Zhao Danchen shouted, leading the group as they leaped towards the tower.


    Each of the eight individuals held a long sword, leaping into the air. With just two leaps, they could reach Zhongshan.


    But, at that moment, a strange smile crept onto Zhongshan''s lips.


    "Release��" From afar, through several courtyards, a crisp voice suddenly rang out.


    From afar? Hearing the distant voice, the airborne group knew something was wrong.


    Sure enough, as the clear sound faded.


    "Whoosh��"


    A series of air-splitting sounds��arrows? Was there an ambush?


    However, even if they were arrows, they were too far away. Shooting through several courtyards to reach this ce would greatly diminish their power. Moreover, while arrows posed a threat to the heads of the four major families at close range, they were utterly ineffective against the four elderly ancestors.


    But when the airborne individuals saw what wasing clearly, panic spread across their faces. Something big was happening.


    It was indeed arrows, but not just any arrows��they were crossbow bolts, siege weapons, a bed-mounted Octo-Bull Crossbow.


    The so-called Octo-Bull Crossbow required the strength of eight oxen to draw its string. It wasn''t an exaggeration; it took at least thirty people to operate it. As a siege weapon, it could easily pierce and topple ordinary city walls with a single shot, showcasing its immense power.


    Although separated by several courtyards, its force remained undiminished.


    Fortyrge arrows, each resembling a spear, struck the airborne individuals with unparalleled uracy.


    On the ground, innate experts might have been able to dodge, but in mid-air, there was no way to leverage or evade effectively��it was only possible to slightly sidestep.


    "Boom, boom..."


    A series of impacts, blood spraying into the air, the scene too gruesome to behold. Even the head of the Li family was struck in mid-air, his head exploding as arge arrow pierced it, sttering brain matter everywhere.


    Three of the heads of the four major families died instantly, leaving only the head of the Sun family miraculously unscathed. The heads of the Zhao and Qian families were shot through the chest, the arrows passing through their bodies. They never expected to be dispatched by Zhongshan in such a pitiful manner.


    The four elderly ancestors moved swiftly, but only three managed to narrowly escape. The head of the Sun family was extremely unfortunate; he managed to deflect tworge arrows with his longsword, but three more pierced his body with incredible force, hurling him onto a thick wall in the distance, dead on impact.


    Zhao Danchen and the other two elderly ancestors were rtively quick to evade. Though they couldn''t resist, they used their true energy to deflect the arrows, and only the head of the Qian family was unfortunate enough to be grazed by arge arrow, his left arm spurting blood.


    With a "boom," the terrified strongmen descended to the ground, their faces filled with horror.


    Zhongshan, Zhao Suoxiang, and Tian Ling''er quickly jumped down from the pavilion, blocking the path of the others.


    "It''s impossible! Octo-Bull Crossbow bed-mounts? There''s no way your Zhong family could have them! How could there be forty of them? If there were so many, I would have known!" Sun Family Master, who had narrowly avoided death, shouted in disbelief. His heart was filled with incredulity��how could this have happened? It was impossible!


    "The person who delivered the message to you said we didn''t have them. That''s because he didn''t know. Hmph, I told you, I would make sure none of you returned." Zhongshan''s voice was cold.


    "You killed our ancestors! My Sun Family''s Golden Core stage ancestor will surely avenge them and cleanse your Zhong family with blood!" Sun Family Master threatened fiercely.


    Zhongshan looked at Sun Family Master and chuckled lightly, "Since you entered the Zhong mansion, I, Zhongshan, have vowed to never let up on the four major families. Golden Core stage? So what? As long as he dares toe, I will ensure he never leaves."


    For Zhongshan, as he was about to found his own kingdom, enemies would only increase in number. Any conflict of interest, even with Nascent Soul stage experts in the future, would have to be faced. What''s more, this was just the Golden Core stage?


    "The arrows are poisoned." Qian Family''s Elder eximed in horror, clutching his arm and hurriedly taking out a pill to swallow.


    "Qian Elder, are you okay?" Sun Family Master asked anxiously.


    "I''m fine. Let me catch my breath, and I''ll be able to force the poison out. Such potent poison! Even my antidote couldn''tpletely remove it in one go." Qian Family''s Elder, known as Elder Qian, said in shock.


    Watching Elder Qian''s face turn slightly purple, Sun Family Master looked at Zhongshan in disbelief. "Zhongshan, you''re so ruthless."


    "Ruthless? You came to kill me. Is that called kindness?" Zhongshan snorted coldly, scoffing at Sun Family Master''s words. Facing life and death, what talk of kindness was there?


    "Let''s go." Zhao Danchen immediately called out.


    "Where do you think you''re going?" Zhao Suoxiang pointed his long spear at Zhao Danchen and attacked.


    Tian Ling''er also immediately danced with her red silk, still not fully recovered, blocking in front of the Li Family''s Elder.


    As for Zhongshan, he pointed his sword directly at Qian Family''s Elder.


    At this moment, although Sun Family Master felt resentment, he also felt the terror of Zhongshan. ncing at the Elder pinned to the wall, he hesitated no more and turned to flee. Zhongshan was still as terrifying as ever, no, even more so.


    "Kill!"


    his nightmare de swung towards the Qian Family''s Elder. Suddenly, his body swelled with power from the Demonic Body Tempering Technique! First Layer! He cleaved with the force to split a mountain!


    Boom!


    A loud crash echoed as Zhongshan''s great de shed against the Qian Family''s Elder''s longsword. Beneath the feet of Elder Qian, ripples of true qi spread out like waves, shattering the ground beneath him. Despite being heavily poisoned and weakened, he was no match for Zhongshan at the Fourth Layer of the Acquired Realm. Even with his doubled strength, Zhongshan held the upper hand. Blocked by a single sword stroke, Elder Qian was forced to retreat.


    However, Zhongshan wouldn''t let him escape so easily. His nightmare de relentlessly pursued.


    Elsewhere, Zhao Suoxiang''s spear thrust directly at Zhao Danchen. The attack carried a substantial amount of true qi, and a stream of energy shot out from the spear, aimed at Zhao Danchen. Reacting swiftly, Zhao Danchen met the attack with his sword. Seeing the iing energy, he was taken aback. With a swift motion, he countered with a st of sword energy, narrowly avoiding Zhao Suoxiang''s spear thrust and retaliating with a close-range strike.


    Although Tian Ling''er''s red silk hadn''t fully recovered, she was still capable of ordinary attacks. Moreover, when Tian Xingzi had brought her out, he had given her life-saving treasures, such as the jade token phoenix, which had immeasurable power. Additionally, Tian Ling''er had reached the Tenth Layer of the Acquired Realm, reaching the pinnacle of the Acquired Realm. Zhongshan naturally trusted her safety.


    Meanwhile, Sun Family Master had already fled, filled with fear. Eight opponents, eight great Acquired Realm experts. In the past, such a situation would have been a sure victory, even if it meant going to the pce to im the emperor''s head. But what was happening now? Sun Family Master had always thought Zhongshan was terrifying, but now he realized he had underestimated him.


    There was an ambush in the Zhong mansion, and Zhongshan was well-prepared. Naturally, Sun Family Master tried to escape. However, as he jumped out of the mansion, he was puzzled to find that no one was chasing him. Could it be that Zhongshan had been bluffing all along?


    In the midst of Sun Family Master''s confusion, a slender purple sword suddenly emerged from his chest.


    Sun Family Master''s eyes widened in disbelief, a sense of extreme incredulity washing over him. He had been ambushed? And he hadn''t even realized it before being pierced through the heart.


    Zhongshan wasn''t unprepared; he had been ready all along. Zhongshan was truly terrifying!


    Before breathing hisst, as he stared at the purple sword in his chest, Sun Family Master left behind hisst difficult words: "Dark Night Hall, Dark Emperor?"

 Chapter 59: No Room for Error

    <h4>Chapter 59: No Room for Error</h4>


    Qian Lao''s face turned purple as the venom spread, his Qi barely managing to suppress it. He urgently needed to find a moment of stillness to counteract the poison. Despite this, his strength was greatly diminished, but even so, he remained a formidable opponent at the peak of the innate realm. Sword Qi surged as he made it increasingly challenging for Zhongshan.


    The Demon Refinement Body Technique, the first level, doubling his strength, was still no match for Qian Lao. Initially, Zhongshan held the upper hand, but soon found himself at a disadvantage, suppressed by Qian Lao.


    "Hiss~~~"


    A tear appeared in Zhongshan''s robe where Qian Lao''s sword pierced through. His eyes shed with intense coldness, realizing time was running out��it had already been an incense stick''s worth of time; he couldn''t afford to dy any longer.


    The Demon Refinement Body Technique, the second level.


    Triple the strength.


    Zhongshan raised his sword from bottom to top.


    To cut down all obstacles!


    With one upward stroke, a huge burst of malevolent energy apanied the de, releasing a formidable aura.


    "ng~~~"


    Qian Lao''s longsword was knocked back by this powerful strike, barely avoiding a close shave. Qian Lao looked at Zhongshan incredulously. How could Zhongshan''s cultivation have increased so rapidly? Wasn''t he just at the innate realm for over a year? Previously, the head of the Qian family had mentioned that Zhongshan''s talent was poor, and his progress slow. Could this still be considered slow?


    "Roar~~~"


    Slicing through the heavens!


    With a vertical downward sh, Qian Lao met the de, but the force was too strong. Zhongshan put all his strength into the strike��how could it be easily blocked?


    As the de descended, the ground below turned to dust, and Qian Lao''s body sank to one knee. His face turned even more purple.


    To cut down all obstacles!


    "Hiss~~~"


    "Ah~~~"


    In Qian Lao''s agonized cry, his left arm was severed by Zhongshan''s de.


    "ng~~~"


    Taking advantage of his momentum, Zhongshan sent Qian Lao''s longsword flying once more.


    The oue was clear.


    With one final strike, Zhongshan was about to end Qian Lao''s life.


    "Wait~~~" Qian Lao shouted in terror. The fear of death spread throughout his body in an instant.


    Death? Was it really his time to die? Despite his advanced age, in the face of death, he couldn''t help butpromise in a desperate attempt to cling to life. But would Zhongshan listen?


    "Hum~~~"


    The great de of nightmare halted before Qian Lao''s face, on the brink of a critical moment, Zhongshan stopped his de.


    Looking at Qian Lao, a peak innate realm expert, now weakened by severe poison and missing an arm, defenseless and unarmed.


    Zhongshan didn''t immediately kill him but instead kept a wary eye on him. In Zhongshan''s view, even a lump of dung had its uses.


    "Don''t kill me, don''t kill me," Qian Lao trembled.


    "Don''t try to use your seniority to pressure me. Since you''ve be my enemy, there will be no peace until one of us falls. What else do you have to say?" Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed.


    Seeing Zhongshan pause his de, Qian Lao breathed a sigh of relief. If Zhongshan hadn''t killed him, there was still room for negotiation.


    "I have the Ethereal Pearl. I offer it in exchange for my life," Qian Lao suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan stared at Qian Lao with narrowed eyes.


    "Hiss~~~"


    In the distance, Zhao Suoxiang''s spear pierced Zhao Danchen''s right chest, piercing his lung, and Zhao Danchen was defeated.


    "Hiss~~~"


    Drawing his sword, Zhao Suoxiang pointed it directly at Zhao Danchen''s throat.


    "Don''t kill me, don''t kill me."


    The longer one lived, the more one feared death. Zhao Danchen immediately cried out in fear. He hadn''t expected Zhao Suoxiang to be so ferocious. A single spear had rendered himpletely defenseless in a short time.


    "Boom~~~"


    On the other side, apanied by a wave of heat and a loud noise, everyone looked over to see the ancestor of the Li family, charred ck by Tianling''er''s jade talisman, severely injured but still alive. Tianling''er swiftly bound the Li family ancestor tightly with red silk, immobilizing himpletely.


    "Hmph," Tianling''er snorted, a hint of satisfaction in her eyes.


    With the overall situation decided, facing the three restrained individuals, fear was written all over their faces.


    "I have the Ethereal Pearl. I offer it in exchange for my life," Qian Lao said immediately.


    Would Zhongshan agree? Neither Zhao Danchen nor the charred Li family ancestor believed it.


    But strangely, Zhongshan nodded.


    As Qian Lao reached for the Ethereal Pearl, everyone watched in disbelief as Zhongshan sheathed his sword and stepped back.


    Seeing this scene, everyone''s expressions turned incredulous. Zhongshan was letting Qian Lao go? Even Qian Lao found it unbelievable. He picked up his severed arm, gave Zhongshan another nce, then jumped up onto the roof. He nced down at the crowd below as if not believing his newfound freedom. But as his gaze fell on Zhongshan, a sh of resentment crossed his eyes. Then, with a shake of his head, he leaped away and escaped.


    Witnessing this scene, the Li family ancestor immediately shouted, "I also have the Ethereal Pearl. I offer it in exchange for my life."


    At first, the cold gaze towards Qian Lao had turned into a glimmer of hope. If Qian Lao was set free, perhaps he could gain his own freedom too.


    "Linger," Zhongshan frowned and called out.


    "Hmm," Tianling''er immediately released the red silk.


    The Li family ancestor quickly took out an Ethereal Pearl and hastily threw it to Zhongshan before turning around, jumping onto the roof despite his severe injuries, and swiftly escaping from the Zhong mansion.


    With two Ethereal Pearls collected, Zhongshan once again turned his gaze towards thest remaining Zhao Danchen.


    Zhao Suoxiang looked at Zhongshan, a hint of iprehension in his eyes. Was Zhongshan releasing this enemy for the sake of an Ethereal Pearl? Was he letting the tiger back into the mountains?


    "I also have an Ethereal Pearl. Let me go," Zhao Danchen immediately called out, following the previous two examples.


    In an instant, Zhao Danchen took out the Ethereal Pearl and threw it towards Zhongshan, thinking he was saved. But Zhao Suoxiang''s spear was still pointed at him.


    "I promise to let you go, but he didn''t," Zhongshan chuckled as he caught the third Ethereal Pearl.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s expression, Zhao Danchen panicked. He had been too hasty just now; he shouldn''t have rushed to offer the Ethereal Pearl.


    "I still have something, a treasure. As long as you let me go, it''s yours," Zhao Suoxiang said fearfully, clutching his chest.


    "You killed my second uncle. The death of a loved one can''t bepensated for by your low-grade treasures," Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes narrowed, his voice cold and resolute, clearly harboring an intense hatred towards Zhao Danchen.


    "No, no, I have a piece of earth-shattering news that can surely buy my life," Zhao Danchen immediately cried out in fear.


    Squinting at Zhao Danchen, Zhao Suoxiang''s face showed a trace of a cold smile. "News? Let''s hear it. Let''s see if its value can outweigh my hatred for you."


    "Yes, recently, isn''t it true that the leader of your Iron Sword Sect is absent from the sect?" Zhao Danchen immediately said.


    Zhao Suoxiang frowned and stared at Zhao Danchen, a hint of anger shing in his eyes.


    "Recently, the Bright Sword Tower, the Demon Sect, and the Heavenly Gorge Sect are preparing to raid the Iron Spear Sect to seize their Spirit Stone mine," Zhao Danchen immediately eximed.


    "Hmph, the Bright Sword Tower and my Iron Spear Sect have always been allied against the demonic sects. Why would they collude with the Demon Sect?" Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes narrowed angrily.


    "I speak the truth. I am indeed from the Demon Sect. My master gave me secret orders to rush to the Iron Spear Sect within twenty days," Zhao Danchen said immediately, taking out a piece of brocade and throwing it to Zhao Suoxiang.


    Zhao Suoxiang took the brocade with suspicion, and upon closer inspection, found it to be true as Zhao Danchen had imed.


    His brows furrowed tightly.


    "How about it? Can this news buy my life?" Zhao Danchen immediately asked.


    Zhao Suoxiang frowned, but he retracted his spear.


    As Zhao Danchen got up, he nced at Zhongshan, Zhao Suoxiang, and Tianling''er once more without saying a word. With a leap, he jumped onto the roof. As he leaped, he was about to jump onto another roof.


    "Fire~~~"


    Once again, a crisp voice echoed from the distant courtyard.


    Hearing this voice, Zhao Danchen''s hairs stood on end. Although the voice sounded sweet, to Zhao Danchen, it was like a call of death.


    "Bang, bang..."


    Another fortyrge arrows, eight of them heavily, struck Zhao Danchen.


    In the depths of the sky, with no leverage, even the former head of the Sun family at his peak was pinned to the wall, let alone the severely injured Zhao Danchen, who was struck by even morerge arrows.


    "Bang~~~"


    Zhao Danchen was pinned to another wall. The two who had escaped earlier, the ancestor of the Li family, suffered the most severe injuries from Tianling''er''s jade talisman. Not long after fleeing, as he ran with a heart full of resentment, a purple sword suddenly appeared beside him. His injuries and the excitement of escaping slowed his reaction, so he only noticed the purple sword when it was almost upon him.


    He quickly dodged, but still had one arm severed. When he looked back, he saw a figure in ck clothes, wielding the purple sword, engaging with him.


    Despite his severe injuries, the Li family ancestor was a formidable opponent. Even with one arm severed, he resisted the Dark Emperor. Soon, the sounds of their fight attracted the city guards, who had been briefed by the Zhong mansion. Each guard carried a bow and arrow, and upon seeing the fight, they shot without hesitation.


    "Bang, bang, bang...."


    The Dark Emperor entangled the injured Li family ancestor, preventing his escape. Despite being hit by two arrows himself, the Li family ancestor was shot dead on the spot.


    The Dark Emperor quickly fled into the darkness.


    Elsewhere, after escaping from the Zhong mansion, Qian Lao ran frantically. When he reached the city wall and realized no one was behind him, he breathed a sigh of relief. It was in this moment of rxation that something eerie happened��within his own shadow, a sword suddenly emerged.


    "Hiss"


    Qian Lao was pierced through the heart by this terrifying sword. In his final moments, he had only one thought: he had encountered a ghost.


    A dark figure separated from Qian Lao''s shadow, took his storage bracelet, and swiftly headed towards the Zhong mansion like a ghost.

 Chapter 60: Three Ethereal Pearls

    <h4>Chapter 60: Three Ethereal Pearls</h4>


    Eight enemies, all dead.


    Inside the Zhong mansion, Zhao Suoxiang held the brocade, his eyes flickering uncertainly. Suddenly, he turned to Zhongshan and said, "Zhongshan, I can''t go to Bamen Mountain. I must rush to the Iron Spear Sect immediately."


    "Now?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yes, now. I didn''t expect toe to Xuan City at such a critical time. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have known about the drastic changes in the sect. Compared to the life and death struggle of the sect, the matters of Bamen Mountain are insignificant. I must hurry back," Zhao Suoxiang exined urgently.


    "Alright. Steward, prepare the horses," Zhongshan called out to the courtyard.


    Zhongshan knew the situation was urgent, so without hesitation, he gave the order.


    "Yes," came the obedient response from outside.


    Zhongshan escorted Zhao Suoxiang to the gate with Tianling''er, and the steward quickly handed over a token. Zhongshan took it and handed it to Zhao Suoxiang, saying, "The city gate is closed, but with this, it will be opened for you."


    "Thank you," Zhao Suoxiang nodded, mounted his horse, and galloped away without stopping for a moment.


    "Zhongshan, why did you let those two go?" Tianling''er asked as she watched Zhao Suoxiang ride away.


    "Let go? Hehe, let''s go inside first. We owe this sess to you," Zhongshan smiled at Tianling''er.


    "Mmm," Tianling''er''s face lit up with excitement upon hearing Zhongshan''s praise.


    The courtyard was being cleaned up by others, and Zhongshan led Tianling''er to another courtyard.


    At this moment, Yinn ran over and hugged Zhongshan''s arm, saying, "Grandpa, did I shoot in time?"


    Watching Yinn and Zhongshan being affectionate, Tianling''er frowned, her previous excitement turning into a pout.


    "Of course, don''t forget who you are, Yinn," Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Grandpa, did that Zhao Suoxiang leave?" Yinn asked immediately.


    "Yes, the sect is in trouble, he must go back," Zhongshan nodded, a hint of worry shing in his eyes for Zhao Suoxiang, but he couldn''t apany him. Despite defeating Qian Lao earlier, Zhongshan was well aware of his own capabilities.


    "What treasures did those three leave behind that made you let them go, Grandpa?" Yinn asked.


    "Ethereal Pearls," Zhongshan replied, exining their use.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s exnation, Yinn''s eyes lit up with excitement. "Grandpa, give me two. I want storage essories too, and I want to possess spiritual treasures."


    Looking at Yinn, Zhongshan shook his head seriously. "You haven''t reached the innate stage yet. These three Ethereal Pearls are crucial for me. I''ll get them for you another day."


    Seeing Zhongshan''s dilemma, Yinn nodded obediently. "Alright. But Grandpa, you have to get them for me soon."


    "Okay," Zhongshan nodded in satisfaction, feeling very pleased with Yinn''s obedience, and affectionately ran his hand through her hair.


    "Hmph," Tianling''er pouted angrily on the side, feeling both annoyed and not understanding why she was annoyed.


    "The major threat has passed. Let''s go have a drink to celebrate. What''s wrong with you, Linger?" Zhongshan turned to Tianling''er.


    "No, I''m sleepy, I''m going to sleep." Tianling''er immediately turned and ran to her own residence.


    Watching Tianling''er leave, Zhongshan furrowed his brows and fell silent for a moment.


    When Tianling''er ran back, for some reason, tears burst out uncontrobly. She locked herself in her room, hugging her nket and crying for half an hour until the bedsheet was soaked. Only then did Tianling''er feel some relief after venting her emotions.


    After crying for half an hour, Tianling''er felt much better. But she couldn''t help but wonder, what''s wrong with me? Why am I feeling so sad? I haven''t cried like this since my mother passed away. But why am I feeling this way now? What''s wrong with me? Why does it hurt to see Zhongshan being close to other women?


    Could it be what Mother said, that I''ve fallen for someone? Do I like Zhongshan? No, that''s not it. I like Senior Brother, not Zhongshan. But why do I feel this way? Although, Zhongshan is not bad. He even knows how to carve wood.


    Tianling''er took out the figurine that Zhongshan carved for her and slowly touched it, a smile appearing on her face that she didn''t even realize was there.


    If Tianxingzi saw his daughter crying andughing like this, he would surely be incredulous. This is just too unbelievable.


    After spending some time with Yinn, Zhongshan sent her away. Then, the aftereffects of the Demonic Body Tempering Technique acted up again. Zhongshan quickly returned to his room to rest.


    The next day, besides the storage bracelet brought back by Yin Qu from killing Qian Lao, the storage bracelets of the other three individuals were also delivered to Zhongshan. Zhongshan destroyed them, leaving behind a pile of Wishful Stones.


    Yin Qu had a unique ability. When he transformed into a shadow, he could also transform objects within five inches of his body into shadow form, just like the Undying Sword that pierced through Qian Lao. He could store them as shadows.


    However, he couldn''t transform too many or too thick objects into shadows. Now, with the storage bracelet, things were different. The five-inch radius would certainly include the storage bracelet.


    At night, Zhongshan entered a dark room alone. Yin Huang was sitting cross-legged, having been hit by two arrows. Although the injuries were not severe, they still needed some adjustment.


    "Master," Yin Huang greeted Zhongshan as soon as he saw him enter.


    "Please, have a seat. Thanks to you this time," Zhongshan said immediately, crossing his legs and sitting opposite the Dark Emperor.


    "No, serving the master is an honor for the Dark Emperor," the Dark Emperor replied respectfully.


    Since the decision to found a nation, Zhongshan had no intention of correcting the Dark Emperor''s title again. In the future, when he bes the ruler of the nation, he would have to ept this title again.


    "Well, next, I may need you to stay in Zhongfu for a while," Zhongshan said.


    "Hmm?" The Dark Emperor looked at Zhongshan with surprise.


    "I''ll be leaving Zhongfu soon. During this time, without a Peak Innate Realm expert in Zhongfu, I''m afraid there may be some troublemakers," Zhongshan exined.


    "Master, rest assured, I will guard Zhongfu well," the Dark Emperor nodded.


    "Well, these two are Spirit Gems. When Yinn asked me for them, I didn''t give them to her. Keep them as storage bracelets and for your own treasures," Zhongshan said.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, the Dark Emperor frowned slightly. Although he was somewhat eager for the Spirit Gems, he still said, "Let''s leave them for Miss Yinn. I don''t need them for now. I can always take themter."


    "Don''t be silly. I''m giving them to you, so take them," Zhongshan insisted, pushing the two Spirit Gems into the Dark Emperor''s hand.


    Silently contemting the Spirit Gems in his hand for a moment, the Dark Emperor nodded solemnly. "Alright."


    Seeing the Dark Emperor ept them, Zhongshan nodded and handed over the remaining half of the Wishful Stones. "I''ve already told you how to use these Spirit Gems. Take care of your injuries. We''ll leave tomorrow, so I won''t say goodbye to you again."


    "Yes," the Dark Emperor replied, taking the Wishful Stones with a serious expression.


    With a nod at the Dark Emperor, Zhongshan turned and walked away.


    This time, when Zhongshan went to Bamen Mountain, not only did his original body go, but his Hidden Body also followed closely behind. Because what Zhongshan would face this time would be the most powerful group of cultivators he had ever encountered in his life.


    The next morning, Zhongshan called the two girls.


    "This is the Gale Boots that Ling''er gave me. As my cultivation increases, my true qi exceeds the maximum tolerance of the Gale Boots. For me, its usefulness will diminish. This time we head to Bamen Mountain, and your cultivation is the lowest. Wear them," Zhongshan handed the white Gale Boots to Yinn.


    Seeing Zhongshan giving her own gift to Yinn, Tian Ling''er frowned, feeling unhappy.


    Two nights ago, Zhongshan noticed the change in Ling''er''s emotions, realizing that there was some discord between Yinn and Ling''er. Last time, Ling''er''s emotional instability led to her being calcted by Zhongdi and falling into the valley. This time, heading to Bamen Mountain would be even more dangerous, so the three must stand united. Ling''er was straightforward, so as long as Yinn retreated a bit, everything should be fine. Therefore, Zhongshan gave Yinn a lesson in ideological education.


    Yinn was also a sensible person. Although she was unwilling, when Zhongshan spoke, Yinn immediately agreed.


    "Thank you, Sister Ling''er," Yinn suddenly called out to Ling''er.


    Looking at Yinn, Ling''er was surprised that Yinn addressed her like this for the first time. However, it was also the first time someone called her "sister", so Ling''er''s initial difort immediately dissipated.


    "Well, you''re wee," Ling''er said.


    Seeing Yinn''s simple address dissolve the estrangement between the two girls, Zhongshan gave Yinn an approving look, and Yinn confidently showed a bright smile.


    However, calling Zhongshan "uncle", calling Ling''er "sister", and being friends with Ling''er, it was quite confusing.

 Chapter 61: Zombies

    <h4>Chapter 61: Zombies</h4>


    Eight dayster, in the early morning, in a small town on the easternmost border of Daku Country, in a small courtyard, Zhongshan analyzed the information collected by his subordinates. During this time, many people entered the mountains from the east.


    "Zhongshan, are you up yet? When are we leaving?" Ling''er''s voice came from outside the room.


    "Uncle Zhong, since he rarely gets to sleep a little longer, Sister, why not let Uncle Zhong sleep a little longer?" Yinn persuaded Ling''er from outside.


    "Hmph, bigzy pig," Ling''er muttered softly outside.


    "Knock, knock..."


    Zhongshan opened the door, seeing the two girls, he said, "Let''s go, into the mountains."


    "Yes," Ling''er''s eyes lit up with excitement, nodding eagerly. But Yinn smiled and nodded at Zhongshan.


    The eastern mountains were all dangerous ces, where ordinary horses were difficult to enter, and even ordinary martial artists did not dare to venture lightly, because there were demons in the mountains.


    In the far east of Zhongshan, therey a ce of unparalleled peculiarity. In this area, shrouded in sand mists, amidst the dense forest, there emerged a bizarre phenomenon of sandstorms out of nowhere. It was exceedingly strange, incredibly eerie.


    This ce was the very destination of Zhongshan''s journey: the Eight Gates Mountain.


    In the north of the Eight Gates Mountain, nestled within a secluded valley, stood a group of about twenty people.


    At the forefront were Princess Qianyou, who had appeared during the siege of Hao San, along with Gu Lin and Mr. Shuijing.


    Princess Qianyou frowned as she gazed at the enormous sandstorm to the south, then turned to Mr. Shuijing and inquired, "Mr. Shuijing, do we have a formation spirit?"


    Mr. Shuijing, rarely seen frowning, looked at the sandstorm and replied, "Seventy to eighty percent."


    In the past, there had been only a ten percent chance, but now it had reached seventy to eighty percent, indicating Mr. Shuijing''s high estimation of the situation.


    "Princess, my understanding of formations is still insufficient; I must rely on Mr. Shuijing," Princess Qianyou remarked.


    "Yes, with more and more people besieging us, you need to find a way to break this formation and obtain the formation spirit for Princess Qianyou," Gu Lin interjected, not mincing words with Mr. Shuijing.


    "Shut up," Princess Qianyou shot a re at Gu Lin, visibly annoyed.


    "Mr. Shuijing, Princess Qianyou has promised to share the formation spirit with you. If there''s only one, it will be gifted to you," Princess Qianyou turned to Mr. Shuijing.


    "Princess, there''s no need for such generosity. The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation has rarely appeared in thend of God''s Continent. There might be more than one formation spirit here. This is a battlefield, with multiple spirits. If it were held by an army, I wouldn''t dare say breaking it. But here, only Tai Xu Zi is in charge. It won''t be too difficult. The more people involved, the more variables. Currently, he''s alone, and I am fifty percent confident of breaking it," Mr. Shuijing chuckled, waving his feather fan.


    "Then do it quickly," Gu Lin urged.


    Mr. Shuijing just shook his head, his brows furrowed.


    "Mr. Shuijing, is there a problem?" Princess Qianyou immediately inquired.


    "Just with us alone, it''s far from enough. Did you notice the sign hanging in the sky earlier?" Mr. Shuijing shook his fan.


    "Yes, it said ''hurt'' on that sign," Gu Lin recalled after a moment of thought.


    "Yes, that''s the Gate of Injury. Rest, Life, Injury, Restraint, Scene, Death, Shock, and Opening. These eight gates, when used as a foundation for an army formation, can undergo endless variations, creating infinite possibilities. But now, with only Tai Xu Zi alone, if a group of people enters through the Gate of Life and exits through the Gate of Scene, during this time, the grand formation will undoubtedly tremble, weakening its power. At that moment, we can charge through the Gate of Injury and directly enter the Dragon''s Eye, where Tai Xu Zi resides," Mr. Shuijing asserted confidently.


    "Will there be a formation spirit where Tai Xu Zi is?" Gu Lin furrowed his brows.


    "Indeed. ording to the information we gathered earlier, thest time someone saw Tai Xu Zi, his clothes were filthy, indicating one of the Five Signs of Celestial Decay, signifying that his longevity is nearing its end, and he has no chance of breakthrough. Coincidentally, an explosion of spiritual stone urred here, and he seized this opportunity to seek out a sessor, setting up the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation to find the sessor of the formation spirit," Princess Qianyou asserted confidently.


    "Qianyou, you are truly brilliant. How did you know?" Gu Lin immediately praised.


    ncing at Gu Lin, Princess Qianyou sighed. Did it even require guessing? It''s so obvious, and only you, Gu Lin, wouldn''t know.


    "So, do we continue to wait?" Princess Qianyou turned to Mr. Shuijing.


    "Yes, wait for more people toe," Mr. Shuijing chuckled, waving his fan.


    On the third day of their journey into the mountains, Tianling''er''s red silk had fully recovered. Carrying Tianling''er through the air made things much easier. Although Enn had the weakest physical stamina, her Wind Chasing Boots significantly narrowed the gap between her and Zhongshan. With Zhongshan leading the way, apanied by the two women, they continued to navigate through the mountains.


    Without a clear path, they relied on the traces left by others. Enn was skilled in this aspect, having experience leading troops in battle and surviving in the wilderness. Finding traces left by others in all directions was not difficult.


    "Master, the path splits into two directions here. One heads northeast, and the other southeast. Which way should we go?" Enn asked in confusion.


    Zhongshan also noticed the different directions of the broken grass and furrowed his brows. He looked up at Tianling''er in the sky and asked, "Ling''er, can you see anyone?"


    "No," Tianling''er replied, standing in mid-air, surveying the area.


    "What about directly east?" Zhongshan inquired.


    Tianling''er flew up again on her red silk and then descended, saying, "Directly east, there are several very high mountains and argeke blocking the way."


    Hearing Tianling''er''s report, Zhongshan and Enn nodded, evidently guessing the situation. In the east, there might be powerful demons or difficult mountain paths that even cultivators in the innate stage would avoid.


    "We can go either way. Let''s choose one," Enn suggested after some thought.


    "Zhongshan, there seem to be people in that valley over there," Tianling''er suddenly eximed with excitement, pointing to a valley in the northeast direction.


    "People?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows.


    "Yes, let''s go over and ask them how to continue, or else we''ll be wandering aimlessly," Tianling''er urged.


    "Yeah, let''s go together," Zhongshan agreed.


    Then, led by Tianling''er, the three hurried towards the direction she indicated.


    By the time the sun had moved to the west, an hourter, Zhongshan and Enn found themselves halted at a cliff.


    On the other side of the cliff, five hundred meters away, even Zhongshan, let alone someone in the early Golden Core stage, couldn''t jump across.


    "Hurry up, once we cross this gorge and climb over two more hills, we''ll see those people," Tianling''er urged from mid-air.


    Seeing Tianling''er, Zhongshan felt speechless. Tianling''er led them on the most direct route, but she hadn''t considered that Zhongshan and Enn couldn''t cross.


    Both sides were sheer cliffs. Zhongshan and Enn had to take a detour, which took some extra time to reach the top of the opposite cliff. Surprisingly, the cliff was fifteen hundred meters deep, truly perilous.


    "Zhongshan, those people over there seem to have been stationary the whole time. We''ve been walking for half a day, and they haven''t moved," Tianling''er said with a furrowed brow.


    "Youe down first," Zhongshan frowned.


    "What''s wrong?" Tianlingnded on the ground and folded her red silk, looking puzzled.


    "You said they haven''t moved for over an hour?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows in confusion.


    "Yes, they''ve been standing still the whole time," Tianling replied.


    Enn and Zhongshan exchanged a nce.


    "Let''s go see immediately. Don''t speak, be careful. There might be danger," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Okay," Tianling nodded excitedly.


    Led by Tianling, they climbed over two more hills and stood in the distant woods, finally able to see the situation inside clearly. Seeing what was inside, Zhongshan''s heart skipped a beat. He grabbed Tianling and Enn, crouching down and watching anxiously from afar.


    People? They didn''t look like people at all!


    In the valley, surrounded by numerous trees, the center was cleared of trees, and twenty-five people with pale, expressionless faces stood in a circle.


    Twenty-five people, with faces devoid of emotion, their greenishplexion emitting a faint ck aura. Their arms were raised and stretched out in front of them, motionless.


    Zhongshan had never seen them before, but he immediately knew what they were: zombies. Twenty-five zombies?


    The moment Zhongshan and the others appeared, it seemed like the twenty-five zombies sensed something. Their raised arms moved slightly.


    Zhongshan quickly made the fastest reaction, circling his arms around the necks of the two women, while swiftly covering their mouths and noses with his palms.


    The two women widened their eyes in surprise. When they saw Zhongshan''s gaze, they quickly understood.


    Holding their breath might be difficult for ordinary people, but for cultivators, it was not a challenge. Enn controlled her breathing using a technique, while Tianling directly switched to internal respiration.


    Although the two women understood, Zhongshan didn''t let go. He continued to stare intently at the distance.


    At this moment, Tianling, feeling Zhongshan''s embrace, nestled in his arms without struggling, her face blushing, lost in a trance. Strangely, Enn was the same.


    Zhongshan kept his eyes on the twenty-five zombies. Although he didn''t know their strength, he didn''t want to provoke them. Moreover, Zhongshan discovered a terrifying fact: these twenty-five zombies were being controlled.


    Twenty-five zombies, arranged in a circle. In the center of the circle was a bizarre altar covered in sinister runes, seeming to writhe slowly. But upon closer inspection, they remained still, which was incredibly eerie.


    At the center of the altar sat a man in ck clothes with a white cloth tied around his head. His face was pale, with a small goatee on his chin. He sat cross-legged, eyes closed, seemingly chanting something, as if performing a ritual.


    The man held a lotus hand gesture in his right hand, resting on his chest, while his left hand held a strange object. This object emitted a sinister red light, and even from a distance, Zhongshan could feel a powerful aura of evil emanating from it. Looking at the strange shape, Zhongshan suddenly felt a shock.


    A heart? On the man''s left hand, the object emitting the evil aura was a human heart?

 Chapter 62: Escaping from the Corpse鈥檚 Clutches

    <h4>Chapter 62: Escaping from the Corpse''s Clutches</h4>


    "One hand forming seals, the other holding that sinister heart?"


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan made the decision to retreat. Unusual situations often meant great danger.


    Twisting the heads of the two women with both palms, Zhongshan gave them a signal to retreat quickly.


    As Zhongshan twisted their heads, the two women snapped out of their trance and immediately nodded when they saw Zhongshan''s expression. They gracefully backed away.


    As the three retreated, Zhongshan kept his eyes on the distance, prepared for any changes.


    On the third step of their retreat, the man in ck suddenly opened his eyes. Zhongshan saw that the moment the man''s eyes opened, they emitted a faint blue light, pointing directly at Zhongshan''s location.


    Simultaneously, all twenty-five zombies turned, their arms pointing toward Zhongshan.


    "Run~~~~~~!"


    Zhongshan roared, and he and Enn sprinted away, while Tianling quickly flew up on her red silk.


    At a distance, the man''s eyes widened, and one of the zombies suddenly leaped and jumped toward Zhongshan''s location.


    Although Zhongshan saw the zombies, the distance between them was still quite far. However, zombies were terrifyingly fast. One leap covered over fifty meters, and they were swiftly closing in.


    Seeing one zombie rapidly approaching, the man holding the heart slowly closed his eyes as if the ritual wasn''t over yet and needed to continue.


    "Zhongshan, that green one is a Copper Corpse, and it''s being chased by a Copper Corpse. My father said it''s equivalent to the strength of someone in the early Golden Core stage. The poison of the corpse is lethal upon contact. What should we do?" Tianling flew in the air, shouting to Zhongshan who was running.


    Golden Core stage power?


    As Zhongshan ran, his heart tightened suddenly. He had felt relieved when he saw that the ck-robed man and the zombies hadn''t pursued them. But now, with a Copper Corpse on their tail, his relief vanished. After all, even though it was just one zombie, its strength was overwhelming.


    Enn, wearing Wind Chasing Boots, was almost as fast as Zhongshan when exerting her full strength. However,pared to the Copper Corpse, there was a stark difference in speed. The zombie chased relentlessly, determined to kill them.


    After crossing arge mountain, the Copper Corpse was still in pursuit. What should they do?


    "Enn, split up. Ling''er, distract it!" Zhongshan roared, increasing his speed suddenly.


    Enn was also a clever person, and she and Zhongshan had an understanding that had been built up over time. Upon hearing Zhongshan''smand, she immediately veered off in another direction.


    Separated into two paths, and as for Tianling, flying in the air, the Copper Corpse couldn''t reach her.


    Sure enough, after they split up, the Copper Corpse hesitated for a moment. Then, it jumped towards Enn with agile leaps.


    The Copper Corpse was incredibly fast. By the time Zhongshan and Enn reached the secondrge mountain, it was less than a hundred meters behind Enn. It was getting closer and closer, about to catch up to Enn.


    "Ling''er, use your red silk!" Zhongshan shouted from afar.


    "Boom~~~~~~"


    Red silk flew forward, crashing instantly into the bronze corpse''s face. The bronze corpse hesitated for a moment, and in the distance, halfway up the mountain, a huge rock on Zhongshan came hurtling down.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~"


    The rock thrown by Zhongshan was ultimately no match for the red silk. With a swift thrust of the bronze corpse''s arm, it shattered without any effect. However, Zhongshan''s goal had been achieved. Yinn took advantage of the distraction to widen the distance, and the attention of the bronze corpse was now drawn towards Zhongshan, rushing towards him in the blink of an eye.


    Zhongshan turned and ran, but he felt a surge of joy in his heart. Despite the bronze corpse''s formidable strength and potent corpse poison, it was ultimately just a zombie, and a low-level one at that,cking significant intelligence. This was a w, and for Zhongshan, any w was enough. Zhongshan''s greatest skilly in exploiting others'' weaknesses.


    Zhongshan ran swiftly towards the mountains, the bronze corpse hot on his heels, just as before. When they were a hundred meters apart, the previous scene reyed itself: Yinn took on Zhongshan''s role, attacking the bronze corpse with Tianling''er, allowing Zhongshan to escape, and the zombie changed direction, charging towards Yinn.


    "Zhongshan, do you need to use the jade talisman?" Tianling''er shouted from above.


    Tianling''er''s jade talisman had been given to her by Tianxingzi for self-defense. She had used one of them against Zhongdi and the others, employing a Fire Phoenix talisman. Later, in Zhong Mansion, she had used another one. Zhongshan regretted it after she had used the first one. Why bother with a jade talisman against that person? Now, there were only two left, and Zhongshan naturally didn''t want to use them at this moment.


    "Not for now. I have a way to deal with the bronze corpse," Zhongshan shouted as he ran.


    Deal with the bronze corpse? Tianling''er was full of doubts. Even she didn''t dare to confront the bronze corpse head-on. How could Zhongshan deal with it? Zhongshan only had that one big sword, but even that sword couldn''t withstand the bronze corpse''s arms thrusting into it. The bronze corpse''s whole body was like bronze, extremely tough, and Zhongshan''s big sword couldn''t harm it.


    But Tianling''er trusted Zhongshan. If Zhongshan said he had a way, then he must have a way.


    With the three of them continuing to cooperate, they crossed over the second mountain. At this moment, just as Tianling''ernded and drew the bronze corpse away, it immediately turned around again, seemingly aware that it couldn''t catch Tianling''er at all, and chased after Yinn.


    After crossing two mountains, Zhongshan suddenly found himself facing a dead end��a massive cliff, just like the one they had encountered before.


    Seeing this scene, Tianling''er was startled in the air, quickly taking out a jade talisman. Apparently, she intended to deal with the bronze corpse at the most critical moment.


    Faced with the predicament, Zhongshan not only didn''t feel fear but instead felt a surge of excitement on his face. He shouted, "Yinn,e over here."


    Even though the bronze corpse was still two hundred meters away behind Yinn, her heart was filled with tension but not much fear. Because Zhongshan was here, Yinn believed that as long as Zhongshan was present, she would not be in mortal danger, absolutely not.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s call, Yinn didn''t hesitate. Even though there was a bottomless abyss ahead with no way to escape, Yinn obediently ran over. The bronze corpse was getting closer and closer, and Yinn even felt the vibrations every time itnded on the ground.


    "Zhongshan~~~~~~~~" Tianling''er shouted anxiously from the air.


    "I''m ok," Zhongshan stared at the bronze corpse in the distance, a strange smile creeping onto his face as he slowly drew out his big sword, ''Nightmare.''


    Seeing Zhongshan''s actions, Tianling''er became anxious once again. She had said before that the bronze corpse was stronger than her. Could Zhongshan deal with it using the big sword?


    "Face p!" Zhongshan suddenly shouted.


    "Whoosh!" Red silk once again flew towards the bronze corpse''s face. The bronze corpse hesitated slightly. At this moment, Yinn also arrived in front of Zhongshan.


    Watching the panting Yinn, Zhongshan smiled faintly, reached out his left hand, and held Yinn''s waist. His right hand extended the sword straight towards the bronze corpse.


    Seeing this scene, Tianling''er was getting extremely worried, but Yinn, at this moment, had calmed downpletely. Yinn believed that she was safe here. She didn''t consider Zhongshan''s cultivation, only trusting Zhongshan as a person.


    Disturbed by the red silk, and naturally irritable, the bronze corpse saw Zhongshan and Yinn embracing each other, with Zhongshan pointing a sword at itself. It quickly jumped towards Zhongshan, only needing three steps to reach him.


    Zhongshan''s long sword aimed, his eyes narrowed, watching the bronze corpse''s movements.


    One step, Zhongshan didn''t move. The second step, Zhongshan still didn''t move. It wasn''t until the moment the second stepnded that Zhongshan moved, and the bronze corpse, seeing Zhongshan''s movement, hurriedly took its third step.


    Simultaneously with the bronze corpse''s leap, it rushed towards Zhongshan, but Zhongshan simply jumped back slightly, his face showing a victorious smile.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~"


    Zhongshan and Yinn disappeared, vanished into thin air, right in front of the bronze corpse. However, Tianling''er saw a terrifying scene. Zhongshan jumped off the cliff?


    "Zhongshan~~~~~~~~~~~~" Tianling''er flew over in panic.


    Meanwhile, the bronze corpse paused in mid-air for just a moment in confusion, then continued past the spot where Zhongshan had been before, tragically failing to brake, and plummeted down in a parabolic trajectory.


    When Tianling''er rushed to the edge of the cliff, she was ecstatic to see that Zhongshan was unharmed. Zhongshan was holding Yinn, suspended in mid-air, with the big sword ''Nightmare'' firmly inserted into the cliff wall.


    Tianling''erughed, her emotions somewhat out of control. Not only did sheugh, but tears also filled her eyes, tears of joy streaming down. In that moment when Zhongshan jumped off the cliff, Tianling''er suddenly felt as if the world had turned dark. But now, everything was fine��Zhongshan was safe.


    Looking up, Zhongshan happened to see Tianling''er''s expression. His brows furrowed for a moment, then a warm smile spread across his face.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A heavy echo resounded from the depths of the 1,500-meter-deep cliff.


    The three of them looked down together, but it was too deep and too dark, with some mist obscuring the view. There was no need to look, though; with a depth of 1,500 meters, the oue of the fall was self-evident.


    "Linger, pull us up from above," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay," Tianling''er immediately stood excitedly at the edge of the cliff, using the red silk to extend down and pull the two up.


    "Yinn,e up," Zhongshan called to Yinn in his arms.


    "No, the environment here is so rare. Let''s stay a little longer," Yinn immediately coaxed.


    Hearing Yinn''s words, Zhongshan was speechless for a moment. "Hurry up! The knife is slipping a bit."


    "Alright." Only then did Yinn reluctantly leave Zhongshan''s embrace, reaching out to grab the red silk. With Tianling''er''s pull, she was lifted up.


    Soon after, Zhongshan was also pulled up.


    The three of them stood still, Tianling''er feeling like she had survived a disaster, while Zhongshan and Yinn seemed unaffected, as if it had been Zhongshan and Yinn flying in the sky just now, and Tianling''er being chased on the ground.


    "Grandpa, how should we proceed from here?" Yinn looked around and immediately asked.


    "To the southeast. Aren''t there several high mountains and rivers ahead? With Linger, who can fly, even the most difficult environments can be ovee," Zhongshan thought for a moment and said.


    Praised by Zhongshan, Tianling''er quickly revealed a happy smile on her face.

 Chapter 63: The Marvelous Immortal

    <h4>Chapter 63: The Marvelous Immortal</h4>


    Zhongshan decided to continue forward but must swiftly distance themselves from the numerous zombies they had encountered earlier. It was too dangerous; facing just one zombie had left them in such a sorry state. With twenty-four more zombies and even that mysterious figure in ck robes who attacked without a word, it was clear he was a dangerous individual.


    Zhongshan understood that if that person didn''t chase them, he wouldn''t be able to leave either. He could only dispatch one zombie to pursue them, so it was best to leave early.


    Heading southeast, they avoided the previous valley from a distance. From the high mountains, Zhongshan had already seen the general terrain. Tianling''er was instructed not to fly in the sky; it made her too conspicuous, not only to the person controlling the zombies but also potentially to other powerful individuals hiding in the area.


    As they traversed through the woods, within just an hour, they encountered trouble��a group of demonic beasts.


    Leading them was a giant mountain cat standing four meters tall, its eyes shining silver, followed by twenty-odd mountain cats, each two to three meters tall.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan quickly assessed the situation. The leading mountain cat should be simr in strength to Tianling''er, or perhaps simr to the zombies they had encountered earlier. While the other mountain cats, under the influence of his Devilish Body Tempering, he could contend with. However, there were too many of them, and with Yinn by his side, dealing with them would be extremely tricky.


    Zhongshan remained calm, just as before, because he still had a lifesaving method��the Red Phoenix Mist, now at its third level. Dealing with these mountain cats wouldn''t be difficult. What he had previously encountered with the zombies was useless, but he knew it wasn''t fundamentally ineffective. Zombies neither lived nor died; even if they consumed a heap of aphrodisiacs, it would be to no avail.


    But facing the mountain cats before him was different.


    Tianling''er felt a bit nervous, not for herself but for Zhongshan, while Yinn turned her head to see Zhongshan''sposed expression, feeling little fear. Because she deeply trusted Zhongshan.


    As Zhongshan was about to release the Red Phoenix Mist, he suddenly widened his eyes and retracted the mist abruptly, going on high alert.


    Arge amount of Red Phoenix Mist spread out. Zhongshan grabbed the hands of the two women, fully on guard.


    Why did the Red Phoenix Mist suddenly appear? Wasn''t the Red Phoenix Demon already dead?


    As the Red Phoenix Mist spread, Zhongshan held onto the two women, constantly resisting the invasion of the mist. If it were someone else, perhaps they wouldn''t be able to resist, but Zhongshan had practiced with the Red Phoenix Mist and could repel it. However, Zhongshan noticed that this Red Phoenix Mist seemed slightly different from his own.


    The group of mountain cats ahead had already started to be restless, the previous fierce light in their eyes slowly reced by confusion. Even the Mountain Cat King, sensing something amiss, suddenly showed a hint of fear in its eyes.


    "Tsk tsk tsk, what beauties we have here, not just one but two! It''s been ages since I''ve seen such stunning beauties. Did youe looking for my marvelous double cultivation? Hmm, still possessing your Yuan Yin, truly fortunate! Sitting at home, and yet, beautiful womene knocking at my door. Truly, I, the Marvelous Immortal, am blessed." Suddenly, a voice filled with a silver-tongued allure echoed from all directions.


    Hearing the voice, Zhongshan''s heart tightened. He knew this time they were in real trouble, far more terrifying than the previous encounter with the zombies because the other party also knew the Red Phoenix Heavenly Scriptures.


    Tianling''er, upon hearing the vulgar words, was immediately annoyed and about to erupt in anger when suddenly her palm was pressed, and she became much calmer, turning to look at Zhongshan.


    "Follow my lead, cooperate fully," Zhongshan whispered softly.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, Tianling''er frowned but remained silent, while Yinn could discern the seriousness of the situation and quietly waited for Zhongshan to address it.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~"


    Descending gracefully from the sky was a handsome man dressed in loose robes adorned with flowers, resembling a bathrobe draped over him. A delicate belt squeezed around his waist, his hair shining brightly, tied into a small ponytail. He held a folding fan made of ck jade in his hand, his face full of silver-tongued allure as he gazed at Tianling''er and Yinn.


    The man appeared quite rxed in demeanor, as if the forest were merely his backyard. Swinging his folding fan lightly, he admiringly appraised the two women, choosing topletely ignore Zhongshan in the center.


    Moreover, Zhongshan noticed that this man was emitting a faint Red Phoenix Mist, the same mist that surrounded them.


    The Marvelous Immortal? Did he just refer to himself as the Marvelous Immortal?


    "Such captivating beauty, truly surpassing the women I''ve encountered before. To train such exquisite specimens into female ves would be the ultimate pleasure. Marvelous, marvelous, truly marvelous," the Marvelous Immortal chuckled as he watched the two women.


    Seeing the Marvelous Immortal speak in such ascivious manner, Tianling''er''s face flushed red with anger, her brows furrowed tightly as if she were ready to confront him at any moment. As for Yinn, she remained expressionless, her eyes showing a hint of solemnity.


    "Woo woo woo~~~~~~~~~~"


    The surrounding mountain cats, caught in the throes of lust, quickly found other partners to mate with, creating an extreme scene.


    While the threat of the mountain cats had been neutralized, everyone knew that this Marvelous Immortal was even more terrifying than the beasts.


    Scanning Tianling''er, Yinn, and Zhongshan, the Marvelous Immortal''s initially suave expression suddenly turned cold. He realized that the three of them weren''t affected by the confusion he had caused?


    At that moment, one of the mountain cats, unable to find a mate, unexpectedly pounced on the Marvelous Immortal. Perhaps in their confused state, they didn''t differentiate between friend and foe.


    With a glint of coldness in his eyes, the Marvelous Immortal waved his ck jade bone fan, unleashing hundreds of crimson sword qi bursts from his body.


    "Crackle~~~~~~~~~~"


    Dozens of mountain cats, in their muddled state, were cut down one by one by the sword qi. In an instant, blood sprayed into the sky as the beasts, which had posed a threat to Zhongshan''s group just moments ago, were mercilessly ughtered by the sword qi emanating from this man''s body. Their corpsesy in pieces.


    The scent of death hung heavy in the air, adding a touch of fear to the atmosphere.


    As blood sprayed everywhere, a few drops fell on the Marvelous Immortal''s face, enhancing his ferocity. With a sinister smile, he licked the blood from the corner of his mouth and then turned his attention back to the trio.


    "Hidden sword in acupoints, Golden Elixir stage?" Tianling''er suddenly eximed in surprise.


    "Hidden sword in acupoints?" Zhongshan frowned. "Golden Elixir stage?" And judging by the situation, this Golden Elixir stage cultivator was even more terrifying than the zombies encountered before, with greater power. Moreover, his slightest displeasure led to rampant ughter, making him an utterly unreasonable viin.


    The moment this man appeared, Zhongshan was on high alert. However, he soon realized that no amount of vignce would help; this man was too strong. He was so powerful that he could easily crush all three of them, even harboring extremely unpleasant intentions towards Tianling''er and Yinn. As for himself, Zhongshan felt that this man had been ignoring him as if he were already dead.


    No, they couldn''t dy any longer; they had to stabilize the situation first.


    "Indeed, little beauty, you have sharp eyes. However, you will soon be my best female ve," the Marvelous Immortal continued with his silver-tongued words.


    Then, his gaze shifted from Tianling''er to her arms. When he saw Zhongshan holding her hand, a cold light flickered in his eyes.


    Unable to dy any longer, Zhongshan knew the Marvelous Immortal had already set his sights on them.


    "Senior brother," Zhongshan suddenly revealed a hint of surprise on his face.


    Senior brother?


    As expected, Zhongshan''s address caught the attention of the Marvelous Immortal, who frowned with confusion and looked at Zhongshan. Not only the Marvelous Immortal but also Tianling''er and Yinn wore expressions of disbelief.


    Both women sensed the danger of the situation and wondered what Zhongshan''s n was to defuse the current threat. However, they couldn''t imagine that he would resort to something as extreme as iming to be the Marvelous Immortal''s brother.


    The Marvelous Immortal''s brow furrowed slightly, his expression turning cold once again. Brother? He didn''t have a brother.


    Seeing the Marvelous Immortal''s expression, Zhongshan seemed to realize that the Marvelous Immortal didn''t believe him. He immediately waved his hand, and a red mist appeared in his palm - the Red Phoenix Mist.


    The release of Zhongshan''s Red Phoenix Mist truly surprised the Marvelous Immortal. Red Phoenix Mist? Indeed, it was Red Phoenix Mist. How could he have it?


    Tianling''er and Yinn had been instructed by Zhongshan earlier not to act like curious children during this dangerous period.


    "Senior brother, Master passed on this technique to me, but he didn''t mention having another senior brother. Did he forget? But apart from Master, there couldn''t possibly be anyone else who knows this, so it must be you, senior brother," Zhongshan pretended to ponder.


    "Are you that old fellow''s disciple?" the Marvelous Immortal started to say but then changed his question mid-sentence.


    Zhongshan, being experienced, immediately noticed the Marvelous Immortal''s slip of the tongue. This revealed that he wasn''t a disciple of the Red Phoenix Old Demon and might even hold a grudge against him. Zhongshan also sensed that the Marvelous Immortal''s killing intent had intensified, but he knew the show had to go on.


    Intensified killing intent from the Marvelous Immortal? That was not a good sign. It was imperative to suppress him from the bottom of his heart.


    "Yes, I''m Senior Brother Zhongshan. However, senior brother, your Red Phoenix Mist seems to be missing something. It''s slightly different from what Master taught me," Zhongshan said, furrowing his brow in puzzlement.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, the Marvelous Immortal''s pupils contracted. His previous killing intent suddenly diminished by half.

 Chapter 64: Zhongshan鈥檚 Plot

    <h4>Chapter 64: Zhongshan''s Plot</h4>


    The Marvelous Immortal stared at Zhongshan, his eyes filled with uncertainty and suspicion. Having practiced the Red Phoenix Technique, he naturally knew its capabilities. As the technique progressed, its power became more extreme. Although it was an auxiliary technique, its capabilities were extraordinary. The Marvelous Immortal had served the Red Phoenix Old Demon for some time and had stolen the Red Phoenix Technique from him.


    He had stolen a copy of the technique from the Red Phoenix Old Demon, but he had always felt that it was iplete. Later, he realized that there were additional stages beyond what he had learned, which the Red Phoenix Old Demon had not recorded. He didn''t know that Zhongshan possessed theplete Red Phoenix Technique. Was it fate that brought Zhongshan to him?


    Thinking this, the Marvelous Immortal licked his lips, his eyes shining as he gazed at Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan''s previous words were just a test. Regardless of the Marvelous Immortal''s reaction, Zhongshan had prepared follow-up remarks, even if he had to make them up.


    However, the test seeded. Although Zhongshan wasn''t sure of the specifics, he could guess the Marvelous Immortal''s thoughts from his general expression.


    Zhongshan was shrewd, perhaps even more so than the Marvelous Immortal. Over eighty years, Zhongshan had experienced the ups and downs of life in the mortal world, encountering all sorts of people and delving into their minds. In other words, Zhongshan was already a master of psychology, whereas the Marvelous Immortal, despite being older, had spent most of his time in solitary cultivation and hadn''t delved deeply into human emotions.


    "So, you''re the new disciple Master recently took in. It''s truly unexpected to encounter you here. What a coincidence," the Marvelous Immortal pretended to be delighted.


    However, Zhongshan could still see a hidden killing intent in his eyes.


    So what if he knew the Red Phoenix Technique? Would he torture him for information? Zhongshan wouldn''t gamble his safety on someone else''s whim, especially considering the Marvelous Immortal''s previous behavior.


    Thinking this, Zhongshan suddenly burst intoughter. "Haha, indeed, what a coincidence! It''s great to meet you, senior brother. When Master taught me the technique, he left without exining many things. Now that I''ve met senior brother, I hope you''ll enlighten me on the parts I don''t understand."


    Zhongshan pretended to be naive, hoping to win over the Marvelous Immortal.


    Sure enough, the Marvelous Immortal was delighted. "Of course, of course, junior brother. But these two beauties by your side..."


    Seeing the Marvelous Immortal''s interest, Zhongshan''s pupils contracted. He immediately said, "Oh, I almost forgot to introduce them to you. This is Tianling''er, the daughter of the head of the Kaiyang Sect and my newlywed Daopanion."


    "Oh? The daughter of Tianxingzi?" The Marvelous Immortal was surprised, his eyes lighting up with excitement. Perhaps this lofty status would pique the Marvelous Immortal''s interest even more.


    "And this is my granddaughter. I hope senior brother will take care of her," Zhongshan said.


    The Marvelous Immortal nced at the two women, then at Zhongshan, narrowing his eyes. "Take care? Of course, I will take care."


    "Senior brother, I heard there''s something big happening at Eight Gates Mountain. We''re heading there to take a look. Would you like toe along?" Zhongshan interjected immediately. After all, going to Eight Gates Mountain might lead them to members of the Kaiyang Sect.


    "Eight Gates Mountain? What''s there? It''s rare for us brothers to meet. Come, my Immortal Pavilion is just ahead. Let''s go to my ce and catch up. Besides, with your pace, it''ll only take two days to the east. There''s no rush," the Marvelous Immortal objected immediately, his eyes ncing at the three of them, a green light flickering in them.


    Tianling''er frowned. She was actually very disgusted, and if it weren''t for Zhongshan''s restraint, she would have taken some other action. As for Yinn, she had been standing by Zhongshan''s side, allowing him to handle the situation.


    Zhongshan looked at the Marvelous Immortal. He sensed a hint of caution from the Marvelous Immortal''s opposition. At this moment, he had to try to go along with it as much as possible.


    "Sure, let''s see what your Immortal Pavilion looks like, senior brother," Zhongshan smiled.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s response, the Marvelous Immortal''s eyes shed with satisfaction, but there was also a hint of disdain. Now that they were calling each other brothers, once he obtained theplete Red Phoenix Technique, it would be Zhongshan''s death sentence. His Daopanion and granddaughter would both be his.


    In his satisfaction, the Marvelous Immortal nced at the two women again, a hint of a silver smile appearing in his eyes.


    Zhongshan could see the Marvelous Immortal''s expression throughout. Although he seemed polite on the surface and appeared somewhat naive, he was brewing something in his heart all along.


    Sure enough, after crossing a hill, they arrived at a beautifully built house beside a waterfall. It wasn''t surprising that the Marvelous Immortal had spotted him earlier.


    As they approached, the sound of a woman''s cries echoed from inside the house. Hearing this, Tianling''er looked puzzled, while Yinn''s eyes narrowed. She knew what this sound was��it was the muffled moaning of a woman who had taken aphrodisiacs and couldn''t find relief.


    Throughout, Zhongshan remained unchanged.


    As they reached the door, it opened, and Zhongshan finally saw what was inside. Two women, their necks shackled with chains, their eyes lifeless and their skin flushed, were tied together by chains around their necks, preventing them from getting close to each other. They were constantly seekingfort as if they had taken aphrodisiacs but couldn''t find relief, only able to emit a sobbing cry.


    Seeing this scene, Yinn tightened her grip on Zhongshan''s sleeve, while Tianling''er leaned closer to Zhongshan, her face filled with fear. The Marvelous Immortal seemed satisfied, but there was also a sneer in his eyes. Now that they were calling each other brothers, once he obtained theplete Red Phoenix Technique, it would be Zhongshan''s death sentence. His Daopanion and granddaughter would both be his.


    In his satisfaction, the Marvelous Immortal nced at the two women again, a hint of a silver smile appearing in his eyes.


    Throughout, Zhongshan could see the Marvelous Immortal''s expression. Although he seemed polite on the surface and appeared somewhat naive, he was brewing something in his heart all along.


    Sure enough, after crossing a hill, they arrived at a beautifully built house beside a waterfall. It wasn''t surprising that the Marvelous Immortal had spotted him earlier.


    As they approached, the sound of a woman''s cries echoed from inside the house. Hearing this, Tianling''er looked puzzled, while Yinn''s eyes narrowed. She knew what this sound was��it was the muffled moaning of a woman who had taken aphrodisiacs and couldn''t find relief.


    Throughout, Zhongshan remained unchanged.


    As they reached the door, it opened, and Zhongshan finally saw what was inside. Two women, their necks shackled with chains, their eyes lifeless and their skin flushed, were tied together by chains around their necks, preventing them from getting close to each other. They were constantly seekingfort as if they had taken aphrodisiacs but couldn''t find relief, only able to emit a sobbing cry.


    Sensing someone entering, the two women, in a daze, quickly crawled toward the Marvelous Immortal. The first woman grabbed him and tried to tear his clothes, wanting to mate with him.


    Zhongshan walked behind without saying a word, while the Marvelous Immortal, with a flick of his wrist, conjured two sword qi from his fingers and directly shed the throats of the two women, killing them in front of him. Blood sttered everywhere.


    "Ah..."


    Tianling''er watched in horror, as if encountering such a malicious person like the Marvelous Immortal for the first time.


    "Are you afraid, little sister? I''ll throw them out," the Marvelous Immortal said with a strange smile.


    With a wave of his hand, the iron chains loosened, and then with a sweep of his sleeve, the bodies of the two women were thrown towards a deep pool not far from the waterfall.


    "Ssh..."


    As the two women fell into the waterfall, arge number of strange fish immediately appeared, opening their mouths to bite at the bodies. Blood quickly dyed the deep pool red, and within moments, the two bodies turned into piles of bones.


    "Ah..."


    Tianling''er screamed in terror.


    "Hahaha, little sister, don''t be afraid. They were already dead. It''s better to feed the fish than to let them rot," the Marvelous Immortalughed with an evil smile, his eyes constantly scanning Tianling''er.


    "Why did you kill them?" Tianling''er finally couldn''t help but ask.


    In Tianling''er''s eyes, enemies could be killed, but these women weren''t enemies. Why did he have to kill them? Tianling''er couldn''t understand, and at the same time, she felt extremely frightened. This person was too terrifying.


    At this moment, Zhongshan also furrowed his brows in cooperation. Since he had to y the role of an innocent, he naturally couldn''t "bear" this change.


    "Senior brother, who are they?" Zhongshan deliberately asked with a puzzled expression.


    As if "seeing through" Zhongshan''s "naivety," the Marvelous Immortal chuckled, "Just a few ythings. When I get tired of them, I naturally discard them."


    As the Marvelous Immortal spoke, his eyes were fixed on the two women, clearly indicating that he had something better in mind, and the previous ones could be discarded.


    Seeing Zhongshan pretending to be naive, Yinn also cooperated by showing a fearful expression, as if she dared not look at the Marvelous Immortal. This frightened deer-like expression made the Marvelous Immortal extremely pleased.


    "Oh, this, my senior brother''s granddaughter, is also my granddaughter. Don''t be afraid. It seems like you haven''t reached the innate realm yet?" The Marvelous Immortal looked at Yinn and smiled.


    "Yes, my senior brother, when our master left in a hurry, I forgot to ask him for a few spiritual pearls. If senior brother has any extras, why not give two to Yinn?" Zhongshan immediately interjected.


    Seeing Zhongshan, the Marvelous Immortal narrowed his eyes slightly, his expression changing slightly, but immediately returned to a hearty smile. "Good idea. I happen to have a spare spiritual pearl here."


    With that, the Marvelous Immortal took out a spiritual pearl and handed it to Yinn, his eyes staring at her as if he wanted to devour her.


    A cold light shed in Zhongshan''s eyes. He had thought that using the Red Phoenix Technique would be enough to stabilize the Marvelous Immortal, but now he realized that the Marvelous Immortal''s influence was too great. They couldn''t wait any longer, or they would be ying with fire sooner orter.


    Zhongshan took the spiritual pearl from the Marvelous Immortal and handed it to Yinn.


    "Aren''t you going to thank grandpa?" Zhongshan said.


    Between Zhongshan and the Marvelous Immortal, it was like a mutual act, each with their own ulterior motives.


    "Thank you, grandpa," Yinn also smiled brightly at the opportune moment and epted the spiritual pearl.


    Immediately, as Zhongshan had previously mentioned, he turned it into the appearance of a ck bracelet.


    "Grandpa, do you have any Wishful Stones?" Yinn looked up at the Marvelous Immortal.


    "Oh, sure, I''ll give you some Wishful Stones." The Marvelous Immortal narrowed his eyes, his silver gaze bing even more sinister.


    "Thank you, grandpa," Yinn smiled immediately, then took a Wishful Stone from the Marvelous Immortal, forming it into a shiny ck storage bracelet, as Zhongshan had taught herst time.


    Seeing the Wishful Stone, Zhongshan could also guess howrge the internal space was. A gleam shed in his eyes as he looked at the Marvelous Immortal, who was now looking evilly at the frightened Tianling''er.


    Seeing this scene, a chill ran down Zhongshan''s spine.


    "By the way, senior brother, I happened to see a treasure near here just a few hours ago," Zhongshan immediately said.


    "A treasure?" The Marvelous Immortal looked puzzled.


    "Yes, guarded by a few zombies. Our strength is not enough to take it," Zhongshan replied.


    The Marvelous Immortal stared at Zhongshan as if trying to determine if what he said was true.


    "Is that so?" the Marvelous Immortal asked.


    "Yes, not far from here in that valley. Actually, that thing might be taken by someone else soon. If we don''t take it now, we might not have another chance. Senior brother, shall we go get it?" Zhongshan suggested.


    The Marvelous Immortal stared at Zhongshan as if trying to determine if what he said was true. After a while, he suddenly said, "Alright, since junior brother says so, I want to see what treasures I haven''t discovered around here."


    "Good, in that case, senior brother, let''s go. Ling''er and Yinn, stay here," Zhongshan said, his eyes brightening.


    The Marvelous Immortal nced at the two girls with a sinister look and said, "We''re in the depths of the Forest of Dark Mountains. It wouldn''t be good if you encountered danger here. I''ll leave two Soul Tracers on you. In case of any mishaps, I can quickly find you."


    Without waiting for Zhongshan to say anything, he conjured two red smoke-like substances, which reached the girls and disappeared in an instant.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan furrowed his brows slightly. Although he didn''t know what Soul Tracers were, he could guess that they were something used for tracking, probably to prevent the girls from escaping.


    While Zhongshan remainedposed on the surface, his mind was brewing with even more sinister thoughts.


    Under Zhongshan''s suppression, the two girls didn''t say much.


    "Let''s go," the Marvelous Immortal said as he walked out of the gate. With a flick of his hand, a flying sword appeared, apparently meant to carry Zhongshan along.


    Zhongshan nced at the two girls, then finally looked at Yinn. He leaned his storage bracelet towards hers, and Yinn understood, shing a nce and seemingly transferring something into her storage bracelet. She then returned a knowing look to Zhongshan.


    "Let''s go, senior brother," Zhongshan said, turning to the Marvelous Immortal.


    The Marvelous Immortal nced at Yinn, noticing Zhongshan''s subtle movements just now, and furrowed his brows slightly.


    "Grandpa,e back soon," Yinn immediately said.


    Hearing Yinn''s words, the Marvelous Immortal twitched his mouth, his eyes gleaming, and softly said, "Of course, I can''t bear to leave you."


    Zhongshan boarded the flying sword, leading the way ahead, and the Marvelous Immortal, feeling somewhat reluctant, nced back at the two girls before flying off with Zhongshan towards the distant valley where the zombies were.


    As soon as the Marvelous Immortal left, the smile on Yinn''s face suddenly changed, and a hint of fierceness shed in her eyes.


    "Yinn, did Zhongshan take that scoundrel to the zombie valley?" Tianling''er immediately asked.


    "Yes, Miss, he''s leading the wolf into the tiger''s den," Yinn said in a low voice.


    "Leading the wolf into the tiger''s den?" Tianling''er frowned.


    "Yes, let''s go. We need to leave this ce quickly and find a safe ce to wait for Miss. We''ll also wait for the wolf to return, wounded and defeated," Yinn said coldly.


    "You mean, that scoundrel and the zombies from before? Will they fight?" Tianling''er frowned.


    "They may not necessarily fight, but with Miss around, they definitely will," Yinn said confidently.

 Chapter 65: Sword Qi

    <h4>Chapter 65: Sword Qi</h4>


    In the dwelling of the Mystic Immortal, Enn made a mark known only to Zhongshan, then swiftly departed with Tianling. Time was limited; they had to prepare everything before the Mystic Immortal returned from his injury.


    Not far away, Enn chose a ce at the foot of a great mountain, surrounded by towering trees, exactly as Enn desired.


    Quickly inspecting the items given by Zhongshan: the Eight-Ox Crossbow, specially crafted by Zhongshan, arrows as long as spears, and a remarkably sturdy folding bed.


    "What''s this?" Tianling asked.


    "It''s the arrow that killed the intruder at Zhong Manor that day," Enn exined.


    "This arrow may work against those at the innate stage, but against those at the Golden Core stage, it might not. Golden Core cultivators have abundant true essence, which forms a protective aura. Though this arrow is strong, it may not prate the aura," Tianling worried.


    "No matter. Though the aura is strong, Sir can surely weaken it. Besides, don''t you still have two jade talismans?" Enn immediately thought of Tianling''s jade talismans.


    "Those talismans, they might handle no more than a Copper Corpse before. But that viin''s cultivation is not as simple as a Copper Corpse. Two talismans might not be enough," Tianling anxiously said.


    "No, when the Mystic Immortal returns, he will surely be heavily injured. In his weakened state, we''ll act ordingly," Enn said.


    "Alright," Tianling could only nod.


    Then, with Tianling''s help, Enn began assembling the Eight-Ox Crossbow bed. After all, the crossbow''s string required great strength.


    Zhongshan stood at the forefront of the flying sword, pointing ahead to the location of the zombie horde for the Daoist Miao Xian.


    At this moment, Daoist Miao Xian wasn''t in a hurry. In his eyes, the two women from before were already as good as his, no need to rush to y with them. Once he obtained the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture, he would have plenty of time to enjoy himself. Moreover, he had just set up the "Soul Pursuit" technique, so naturally, they wouldn''t escape his grasp.


    Looking at his junior brother ahead, Daoist Miao Xian smirked wickedly. "Treasure? You''re just a little treasure."


    Zhongshan, standing in front, could feel the pressure of Daoist Miao Xian''s gaze, but years of experience had made him steady in the face of danger. Would he reveal a w at this critical moment?


    "It''s right there, senior brother. Let''snd the flying sword first and proceed on foot to avoid alerting the enemy. Besides, junior brother is still in the Pre-Natal Stage, with impurities yet to be cleansed from his body. We''ll need to wait a while," Zhongshan said with a hint of "embarrassment."


    "What else can you do by waiting a while? Go relieve yourself?" Daoist Miao Xian naturally saw through Zhongshan''s embarrassment and nodded, thennded the flying sword.


    It was a small forest, but within Daoist Miao Xian''s line of sight, Zhongshan quickly ran into the woods.


    "What are you afraid of? You''re not a woman," Daoist Miao Xian smirked wickedly.


    "I''m afraid of contaminating senior brother with any unpleasant odor," Zhongshan said before entering the woods.


    Watching Zhongshan enter the woods, Daoist Miao Xian narrowed his eyes. Was he trying to escape? Hmph! He wouldn''t escape from my grasp.


    With Daoist Miao Xian''s keen hearing, the sound of rustling came from the woods.


    Soon, a rxed Zhongshan emerged with a smile.


    "Senior brother, once we cross over this hill, we''ll be there," Zhongshan guided Daoist Miao Xian.


    Seeing Zhongshan return, Daoist Miao Xian nodded. Though he still had some doubts, Zhongshan hade back, dispelling any lingering suspicions.


    Led by Zhongshan, Daoist Miao Xian took a few light steps and reached the mountaintop. Then, together with Zhongshan, they crossed over the hill and disappeared in an instant.


    Just as the two crossed over the mountain, a figure emerged from the woods where Zhongshan had relieved himself earlier, a person who had been hiding behind arge tree.


    If Daoist Miao Xian were here, his eyes would surely pop out in astonishment.


    Zhongshan, another Zhongshan? How could this be?


    Indeed, it was Zhongshan. While the original Zhongshan stayed behind in the woods, his concealed form led Daoist Miao Xian to the zombie valley.


    The original Zhongshan nced at the mountain where Daoist Miao Xian had left, then turned around and sprinted back the way he came.


    The concealed Zhongshan possessed extraordinary abilities and naturally stayed behind to face the danger.


    Leading Daoist Miao Xian, Zhongshan stopped far outside the valley, pointing towards its center.


    A man in ck robes still held a beating heart in his hand, muttering incessantly, surrounded by twenty-four bronze corpses.


    The altar runes flickered eerily, and a dense gloom pervaded the surroundings. Daoist Miao Xian stopped at a distance, his eyes shining brightly as he stared directly at the object in the ck-robed man''s hand��the heart.


    Though he didn''t know what it was, even from afar, he could sense an infinite malevolence emanating from it. As the overwhelming evil approached, a strong sense of greed surged in Daoist Miao Xian''s eyes.


    Despite his greed, Daoist Miao Xian remainedposed, analyzing carefully: Who is this person? How did hee to possess such a treasure? What is his cultivation level? Can I seize it from him?


    After pondering with narrowed eyes for a moment, he turned to Zhongshan, clearly wanting to assess the man''s strength from Zhongshan''s perspective.


    Zhongshan had been waiting for this moment. He immediately spoke, "Senior brother, what do you think of the strength of these bronze corpses?"


    "Bronze corpses?" Daoist Miao Xian frowned at the twenty-four bronze corpses.


    "Yes, bronze corpses. Would they pose a challenge for you, senior brother?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Ridiculous. They''re just bronze corpses. Although they have bronze skin and bones, they are nothing in my eyes. I''m more concerned about the cultivation level of that man in ck robes. Did you see him make a move?" Daoist Miao Xian said solemnly.


    "As for the cultivation level of the man in ck robes, I did not see it. However, I noticed a few things that I''ll share with you for analysis, senior brother," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Oh?" Daoist Miao Xian eximed in surprise.


    "This person is definitely engrossed in some kind of cultivation or activity and cannot be easily distracted. Several hours ago, when I left his vicinity, he didn''t even budge. So, I believe he is currently at his weakest or most vulnerable state," Zhongshan exined.


    "Hmm," Daoist Miao Xian nodded in agreement.


    "Furthermore, there were twenty-five before, now only twenty-four bronze corpse guards. This indicates that he can only subdue ones of this strength. So, his cultivation level..." Zhongshan intentionally left it unsaid.


    "He''s at most slightly stronger than the bronze corpses," Daoist Miao Xian immediately remarked.


    "Senior brother is indeed wise. There''s a high probability his cultivation level is lower than yours, and he''s currently immobilized. Senior brother, what about that eerie heart? Shall we take it?" Zhongshan''s eyes sparkled with anticipation.


    Observing Zhongshan, Daoist Miao Xian''s throat subtly moved, then he nced at the ck-robed figure in the distance with closed eyes, narrowing his eyes. Still, he couldn''t make a decision. Though Daoist Miao Xian wasn''t at the peak of the Golden Elixir Stage, he possessed the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture. He believed his strength ranked first among those below the Yuanying Stage. However, facing the unknown, even after Zhongshan''s analysis, Daoist Miao Xian remained cautious.


    Watching from the side, Zhongshan furrowed his brows slightly. He hadn''t expected Daoist Miao Xian to be so cunning, not even falling for this. Well, if that''s the case, it''s time for a stronger approach.


    "Senior brother, although my strength is limited, I am willing to scout ahead for you," Zhongshan suddenly spoke up.


    "You?" Daoist Miao Xian looked at Zhongshan with surprise.


    Daoist Miao Xian could guess Zhongshan''s strength. He was merely in the Pre-Natal Stage, far from reaching the Post-Natal Stage. Did he really intend to go? Was he seeking death? Zhongshan''s words indeed puzzled Daoist Miao Xian.


    Seeing Daoist Miao Xian''s confusion, Zhongshan knew his tactic had worked. With a step forward, he headed towards the inner area.


    After taking just a few steps, the man in the distance holding the heart suddenly opened his eyes, a hint of killing intent shing in them.


    At such a distance, Zhongshan noticed the eerie green glow in the man''s eyes. What sinister thing was he doing?


    Regardless of what he was doing, Zhongshan had to charge forward at this moment.


    A hint of ferocity appeared in the eyes of the man in ck robes. He seemed to be silently chanting something. In the blink of an eye, five bronze corpses rushed towards where Zhongshan was. However, the ck-robed man no longer focused on Zhongshan but gazed further away��at Daoist Miao Xian.


    As he looked at Daoist Miao Xian, a trace of annoyance shed in the ck-robed man''s eyes.


    Zhongshan charged forward, and Daoist Miao Xian, who had initially thought Zhongshan was simply seeking death, couldn''t bear to watch him perish. In an instant, the five bronze corpses were in front of Zhongshan, their ten arms pointing towards him as if they could impale him at any moment.


    "Hoo, hoo~~~~~"


    Suddenly, over a hundred sword energies appeared out of thin air in front of Zhongshan, directly aimed at the five bronze corpses.


    "ng, ng, ng...."


    A series of impacts caused the movements of the bronze corpses to pause momentarily. Zombies were most proud of their sturdy bodies, followed by their corpse poison. Under the attack of over a hundred sword energies, the bronze corpses hesitated for just a moment before continuing to charge at Zhongshan. However, that momentary pause was enough. In the blink of an eye, Daoist Miao Xian approached.


    Zhongshan swiftly dodged to the side.


    As Daoist Miao Xian approached, the five bronze corpses charged directly at him. With a gentle wave of his pink sword, over a hundred sword energies suddenly burst forth from it, transforming the pink sword into one ten zhang long.


    Ten zhang long? Zhongshan widened his eyes as he watched from the side. No, the sword hadn''t lengthened; it was an energy form in the shape of a long sword. Sword Qi!


    Zhongshan knew that when he used a sword or a knife, his True Qi attached to it, producing a malevolent aura known as Sword Qi. Although it was stronger than that of a Post-Natal cultivator, the True Qi of a Post-Natal cultivator couldn''t be released externally, forming Sword Qi. When True Qi formed into True Essence, the malevolent aura would erupt and leave the sword, which was what peoplemonly referred to as Sword Qi. A True Essence cultivator could release a Sword Qi from a distance, a skill only achievable by True Essence cultivators.


    In the Golden Elixir Stage, one could form Sword Qi, which although attached to the sword, seemed to take on a solid form, like a pure energy attack, incredibly powerful. A ten zhang long Sword Qi; powerful cultivators could even extend it to a hundred zhang.

 Chapter 66: Silver Corpse Earth Escaping

    <h4>Chapter 66: Silver Corpse Earth Escaping</h4>


    "ng, ng, ng...."


    In the blink of an eye, under the ten zhang Sword Qi, the five bronze corpse-level zombies were forced to retreat, with one bronze corpse even having its hand severed by the powerful Sword Qi.


    Sword Qi couldn''t harm bronze corpses; with Daoist Miao Xian''s current cultivation level, the Sword Qi emitted from his acupoints couldn''t even touch them. Only by using Sword Qi could they be eliminated.


    Although Daoist Miao Xian had an eerie demeanor, his swordsmanship was not to be underestimated. Sword Qi apanied by Sword Qi disrupted the bronze corpses, and with each swing, the surrounding vegetation was destroyed, and countless broken grasses fell from the sky.


    Where the Sword Qi passed, no grass grew. The bronze corpses were pushed back step by step, and Daoist Miao Xian wielded his sword with ease.


    As he overpowered the bronze corpses, a trace of a sinister smile appeared in Daoist Miao Xian''s eyes. Just as Zhongshan had said, that man couldn''t leave now. Couldn''t leave? Haha.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a forceful sh, a wave of Qi formed, apanied by numerous Sword Qi, causing the five bronze corpses to be pushed back suddenly.


    Daoist Miao Xian''s eyes were fixed on the heart in the ck-robed man''s hand, his greed growing stronger. As he swung his sword, a hundred Sword Qi surged towards the ck-robed man, countless Sword Qi shooting towards him, about to reach him in an instant.


    Seeing this scene, the ck-robed man''s eyes turned cold. Suddenly, two bronze corpses moved in front of him.


    "ng, ng, ng...."


    Numerous Sword Qi were blocked by the two bronze corpses. The ck-robed man''s eyes narrowed, and the remaining bronze corpses around him charged towards Daoist Miao Xian. Only two remained��one charged towards Zhongshan behind arge rock in the distance, while the other stood beside the ck-robed man, constantly defending him.


    Seeing this scene, Daoist Miao Xian became even more excited. Good, this was what he wanted. With arge number of bronze corpses bouncing towards him, about to reach him in an instant, one bronze corpse couldn''t threaten Daoist Miao Xian, nor could five. Now, with twenty-two bronze corpses charging towards him, although they were not strong enough to threaten him, their bodies were exceptionally sturdy. Previously, Daoist Miao Xian had only managed to sever one bronze corpse''s hand with a full force blow. Could he still exert his full strength now? He could sever one bronze corpse''s hand, but his body would be exposed to the bronze corpses.


    The situation became tricky, but not impossible. Although the bronze corpses were difficult opponents, Daoist Miao Xian could fly. He could soar into the sky on his flying sword, while the bronze corpses couldn''t.


    However, Daoist Miao Xian didn''t do that. Instead, a wicked smile appeared at the corner of his mouth as he wielded his long sword again, continuously facing off against the bronze corpses.


    "ng, ng, ng...."


    The collision between the Sword Qi and the bronze corpses echoed continuously, and a sense of madness shed in Daoist Miao Xian''s eyes as a cruel smirk appeared at the corner of his mouth, constantly battling the bronze corpses.


    However, Daoist Miao Xian''s position seemed to slowly retreat.


    Watching Daoist Miao Xian''s movements, not to mention Zhongshan, even the ck-robed man could guess that he was trying to lure away the bronze corpses?


    When the zombies charged towards him, Zhongshan kept retreating, quickly moving away. The battle between the two sides was not something he could participate in. It was enough to provoke Daoist Miao Xian and the zombies to fight. Zhongshan''s rapid retreat also caught the attention of the ck-robed man. Seeing Zhongshan retreating rapidly, the ck-robed man''s brows furrowed even tighter. Zhongshan''s speed this time was much faster than before; even with the cultivation level of the bronze corpses, they couldn''t catch up to him?


    At this moment, Daoist Miao Xian''s actions once again attracted the attention of the ck-robed man. After luring the bronze corpses away, Daoist Miao Xian finally stopped entangling with the group of zombies. With a toss of his long sword, he stood on it and flew towards the ck-robed man in the distance.


    Flying through the air, he appeared in front of the ck-robed man in the blink of an eye.


    The ck-robed man''s brow furrowed, and Zhongshan''s brow furrowed as well. Zhongshan didn''t want Daoist Miao Xian to win immediately.


    "Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh..."


    Hundreds of huge Sword Qi swiftly shot towards the ck-robed man, the magnificent red sword light looking extremely dazzling, like a hundred fireworks seen on TV when Zhongshan was young.


    As the Sword Qi was about to reach the ck-robed man, there was only one bronze corpse beside him. Facing so many Sword Qi, it was clear that it was toote for the ck-robed man to react. Could the ck-robed man move?


    If the ck-robed man couldn''t move, then Daoist Miao Xian would win. The ck-robed man would die. If the ck-robed man could move, then these hundred-plus Sword Qi could also serve as a probe to quickly determine the ck-robed man''s strength.


    Seeing the numerous Sword Qi, the ck-robed man''s eyes narrowed, showing no signs of fear. He seemedpletely unafraid. Seeing this scene, Daoist Miao Xian''s heart tightened.


    "Hum~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The ck-robed man sat down, and suddenly, an energy shield appeared, like the protective shield attached to the altar.


    The shield had twoyers. Oneyer was next to the ck-robed man''s body, and the otheryer was a ten-meter-diameter hemisphere.


    "Boom, boom, boom~~~~~~~~~"


    The hundreds of Sword Qi flew towards the outer energy shield, quickly causing a huge collision sound, but only forming ripples on the energy shield.


    Seeing this scene, Daoist Miao Xian wasn''t worried but rather showed a hint of joy on his face. Flying closer, he once again transformed his flying sword into a long sword and held it in his hand. With a ten-zhang Sword Qi, he crazily shed towards the outer energy shield.


    "Boom, boom, boom"


    After just three heavy shes, the outer energy shield suddenly shattered, turning into a burst of green smoke and disappearing. At this moment, the bronze corpse beside the ck-robed man also rushed up.


    There was no way to avoid it! Daoist Miao Xian swung his sword fiercely.


    "Die~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    In Daoist Miao Xian''s bloodthirsty eyes, a strong excitement suddenly burst out.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a powerful strike, a tremendous force, the sword sliced through the bronze corpse''s neck, apanied by a loud roar. Half of the neck was severed, but the bronze corpse was still a bronze corpse; its body was too strong. Daoist Miao Xian''s powerful strike only severed half of it.


    Moved, the ck-robed man finally moved. His eyes turned cold, and his right hand, which was originally holding a lotus flower hand seal, suddenly turned pitch ck. A palm strike came at Daoist Miao Xian through the air.


    Daoist Miao Xian pulled out his sword, and the bronze corpse waspletely scrapped. In the moment it fell, Daoist Miao Xian happened to see a ck palm printing from behind the bronze corpse.


    Like Sword Qi, the power of a palm strike was condensed into this energy ball, rushing towards him.


    In a hurry, Daoist Miao Xian blocked it with the back of his sword.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Daoist Miao Xian retreated ten meters backward. The ck energy palm that had condensed also dissipated.


    Although Daoist Miao Xian retreated, his face showed even more surprise. Because from this palm strike, Daoist Miao Xian had already probed the strength of the ck-robed man.


    He readjusted his long sword and charged towards thestyer of the energy shield inside which the ck-robed man sat. At the same time, arge amount of crimson mist erupted from around Daoist Miao Xian''s body, almost engulfing the ck-robed man.


    The person had not yet arrived, but the crimson mist had already reached the ck-robed man.


    The energy shield couldn''t stop the invasion of the crimson mist, as if the crimson mist hadn''t even touched the energy shield.


    However, the crimson mist was blocked by another substance, ck gas, suddenly emanating from the ck-robed man''s heart. This sinister ck gas actually repelled Daoist Miao Xian''s crimson mist?


    Zhongshan frowned as he watched this scene. Daoist Miao Xian''s crimson mist was somewhat iplete, slightly inferior to his authentic crimson mist, but it shouldn''t be blocked like this. What was that?


    Daoist Miao Xian also noticed the unusualness of the moment, and his envy for Zhongshan''s knowledge of the Vermilion Bird Heavenly Scripture grew stronger. But at the same time, his desire for the heart in the ck-robed man''s hand increased. What kind of treasure was it to be able to block the crimson mist?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    A sword fiercely struck the energy shield. Suddenly, the energy shield shattered like the previous one, dispersing, leaving only the ck-robed man facing Daoist Miao Xian.


    Although the long sword was repelled, Daoist Miao Xian became even more excited. He swung his sword again and shed towards the ck-robed man who was sitting cross-legged.


    Having just probed, the power of that palm strike was inferior to his own. This person was doomed, and the heart would be mine.


    From the mountaintop in the distance, Zhongshan felt anxious. However, he was surprised to find that the ck-robed man still showed no fear, but instead, a hint of annoyance shed across his face.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a loud noise, Daoist Miao Xian''s eyes widened as he was sent flying backward. He spat out a mouthful of blood, looking incredulous.


    With just one palm strike, Daoist Miao Xian was unexpectedly sent flying.


    As a huge Sword Qi was about to sh towards the ck-robed man, a white figure suddenly appeared in front of him,pletely wrapped in white cloth.


    Where did hee from?


    Just as Zhongshan was wondering, two more white figures slowly rose from the ck-robed man''s sitting position. They floated up, seemingly unaffected by the earth, like shadows, no, it was Earth Escape.


    What was this? Earth Escape? Could it perform Earth Escape?


    "Silver corpses?" Daoist Miao Xian wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and suddenly shouted in a deep voice.


    "Hoo~~~~~~~~~~"


    Like a ghost, a silver corpse suddenly appeared in front of Daoist Miao Xian. With a flip of its hand, it struck again.

 Chapter 67: Waiting for the Final Zhongshan

    <h4>Chapter 67: Waiting for the Final Zhongshan</h4>


    As the silver corpse''s palm strike came, Daoist Miao Xian didn''t hesitate. He turned his hand and wielded his sword to meet the silver corpse''s attack, hastily mobilizing his maximum True Yuan to withstand the silver corpse''s power.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a loud noise, Daoist Miao Xian was sent flying, wounded by the silver corpse''s palm strike. At the same time, while retreating in mid-air, he urged his long sword and quickly ascended into the sky.


    The moment he ascended, Daoist Miao Xian felt relieved because another silver corpse appeared where he had just retreated.


    However, just like copper corpses, silver corpses couldn''t fly. Silver corpses were an evolved form of copper corpses, and only when they further evolved into golden corpses could they fly.


    Activating his flying sword, Daoist Miao Xian circled in the sky, coldly watching from above, wiping the blood from the corner of his mouth. His hatred for the ck-robed man deepened.


    At this moment, the ck-robed man slowly stood up. His hair was still disheveled, and the "heart" in his hand was not put away. With cold eyes, he looked up at Daoist Miao Xian.


    Three silver corpses surrounded the ck-robed man, protecting him in the center.


    Although the ck-robed man''s strength was inferior to Daoist Miao Xian''s, the difference was limited. He could fly, but why would he fly without reason?


    Daoist Miao Xian swung his sword downward, releasing a hundred Sword Qi, fiercely shing towards the ck-robed man. Although the ck-robed man''s strength was slightly inferior, he could still control the silver corpses. One silver corpse leaped up, forming a powerful corpse aura around it, like arge shield in the air, blocking the attack.


    "Bang, bang, bang..."


    After a series of collisions, the corpse aura blocked the Sword Qi, and the Sword Qi dissipated into nothingness.


    Daoist Miao Xian was ruthless. Although there were three silver corpses in front of him, they were still within his range. Because the silver corpses were controlled by the ck-robed man, once the ck-robed man died, the silver corpses would surely flee on their own.


    As long as he killed the ck-robed man, it would be fine. A huge Sword Qi formed again, shing towards the ck-robed man. Perhaps because Daoist Miao Xian''s long sword was of a higher level, the Sword Qi pierced through the corpse aura fiercely.


    "Sizzle~~~~~~~~~~"


    The Sword Qi pierced through the corpse aura and stabbed directly towards the ck-robed man. With overwhelming power, it seemed as if Daoist Miao Xian wouldn''t stop until he had in the ck-robed man.


    The ten-zhang Sword Qi, after piercing through the corpse aura, suddenly surged and appeared in front of the ck-robed man in an instant, ready to strike and kill him.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    A silver corpse stood in front of the ck-robed man, blocking this powerful strike. The silver corpse''s body was too sturdy. Even with such force, it only managed to tear open a small portion of its cloth, revealing its silver-colored body inside.


    With the attack thwarted, Daoist Miao Xian used the rebounding force to soar into the air again, standing on his flying sword.


    Three silver corpses?


    three silver corpses seemed to form an imprable barrier, and Daoist Miao Xian continued to battle for nearly an hour. However, the effect remained the same, and the ck-robed man was tightly protected, showing no signs of damage.


    Daoist Miao Xian wasn''t anxious. Although he hadn''t injured the ck-robed man, he was on the offensive while the other party was on the defensive. A prolonged defense would lead to defeat. He continued to maneuver around the three silver corpses that couldn''t fly.


    Perhaps after being passive for a long time, the ck-robed man became annoyed. The coldness in his eyes intensified, and the "heart" in his hand slowly emitted strands of blood mist.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan realized that the ck-robed man might have some ultimate move. If Zhongshan could discern it, Daoist Miao Xian naturally could as well. Just as the blood mist appeared around the ck-robed man''s heart, the three silver corpses, seemingly a bitx, provided an opportunity. Daoist Miao Xian''s eyes lit up, and from high in the sky, he fiercely thrust his sword downward once again.


    Before the sword arrived, the Sword Qi had already reached. Sure enough, the three silver corpses reacted sluggishly,cking their previous corpse aura protection. The Sword Qi was about to reach the ck-robed man in an instant.


    However, the ck-robed man stared at the Sword Qi without any nervousness, but instead narrowed his eyes gradually.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan''s face lit up with joy. Just as the copper corpse chased after him again, Zhongshan recklessly fled towards the ck-robed man.


    Daoist Miao Xian saw the expression on the ck-robed man''s face but didn''t know what his follow-up n was.


    Just as the Sword Qi was about to pierce the ck-robed man''s scalp...


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    The Sword Qi dispersed one after another, as if they were all repelled by an invisible force.


    Beside the ck-robed man, arge amount of dark golden eerie aura emanated, and the Sword Qi had dissipated upon contact with this dark golden aura.


    In mid-air, under the long sword of Daoist Miao Xian, when he saw this scene, his eyes suddenly changed. He changed direction swiftly, flying to the side with panic in his eyes.


    Because, in front of the ck-robed man, another figure wrapped in white cloth emerged from the ground. Although only its head emerged, the dark golden aura emanated from it, eerie and terrifying.


    "Golden corpse, how can you control the golden corpse?" Daoist Miao Xian eximed in horror as he flew through the air.


    In that instant, the golden corpse that was underground had already surfaced and shot into the sky.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a loud noise, Daoist Miao Xian was sted high into the air. A palm struck his chest, and his clothes shattered, emitting a strong blue corpse poison, appearing extremely bright.


    Immortal Miao staggered backward, spitting out a mouthful of blood as he struggled to dissipate the overwhelming force that had struck him. Despite his efforts, the golden corpse reappeared abruptly in front of the man in the ck robe, assuming a protective stance.


    Terror filled Immortal Miao''s eyes as he retreated. The thought of seizing the scarlet heart was no longer on his mind. His priority now was to escape quickly, find a ce to heal, and expel the poison from his body.


    Suddenly, a desperate cry for help pierced the air.


    "Senior Brother, save me!"


    Turning his head, Immortal Miao saw Zhong Shan surrounded by a horde of bronze corpses, seemingly on the verge of being torn apart.


    Seeing this, Immortal Miao was furious. How could that fool have gotten so close to the golden corpse after running for so long?


    He wanted to leave Zhong Shan to his fate, but the temptation of the Hong Luan Heavenly Manual was too strong. He noticed that although the man in the ck robe hated him, he seemed unwilling to let the golden corpse stray too far. Could it be that he couldn''t control it if it was too far away? It made sense; the ck-robed man''s cultivation was lower than his own. The control must lie with the scarlet heart.


    Realizing this, Immortal Miao made a significant decision. His eyes widened, bloodshot, and the speed of his flight on the sword suddenly tripled. He was going all out, willing to risk everything. Despite his severe injuries and poisoning, he used a secret technique to temporarily boost his strength.


    In a sh, Immortal Miao returned to the valley, unleashing a torrent of sword energy from his longsword, which pierced through the mass of bronze corpses. In a swift movement, he found himself among them.


    Not far away, the ck-robed man''s eyes grew cold, and the golden corpse once again vanished.


    "Whoosh!" Immortal Miao''s left hand suddenly grabbed Zhong Shan by the cor, preparing to flee.


    "Boom!"


    With a thunderous sound, a giant hand materialized out of nowhere and struck Immortal Miao''s right arm, sending him flying.


    Immortal Miao knew that even under the influence of the secret technique, he was faster than a silver corpse. Only the golden corpse could hit him. With immense power, the golden corpse''s strike hurled him into a nearby mountain.


    "Crash!"


    Debris flew as Immortal Miao crashed into the mountain, shattering rocks in all directions.


    "Ugh!"


    Coughing up more blood, Immortal Miao felt a strange sense of relief. The golden corpse hadn''t followed; it must not be able to stray too far from the ck-robed man. He was safe. Spitting more blood, he cursed Zhong Shan for causing such severe injuries. Once he extracted the Hong Luan Heavenly Manual from him, he vowed to dismember him.


    Although the golden corpse didn''t pursue, the silver corpses seemed unaffected and quickly closed in on Immortal Miao. ncing fearfully at the golden corpse in the distance, Immortal Miao decided not to engage. He feared that if the ck-robed man approached, the golden corpse would fly over as well.


    With his right arm nearly useless from the golden corpse''s blow, Immortal Miao was left with only his left arm. He didn''t want to fight the silver corpses, so he turned his flying sword and grabbed Zhong Shan, preparing to flee.


    "Whoosh!"


    A sudden sword shed through the air, severing Immortal Miao''s left arm that held Zhong Shan.


    Blood sprayed, and shock filled Immortal Miao''s eyes. Zhong Shan wanted to kill him? All of Zhong Shan''s previous words rushed through his mind. It had all been a setup. Zhong Shan had been waiting for this opportunity. The strike had been meant for his chest or back, but due to Immortal Miao''s constant vignce and the protective aura around his body, only his arm, holding Zhong Shan, was vulnerable.


    Seizing the moment, Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold, and with a decisive strike of his undying sword, he severed Immortal Miao''s arm with all his strength.

 Chapter 68: Reversal

    <h4>Chapter 68: Reversal</h4>


    Zhong Shan seeded with his sword strike and swiftly leaped off the flying sword. However, Miao Xianren''s reaction was astonishingly quick. Despite his severe injury, he managed to grab his severed left arm with his right hand and, with a fierce kick, sent Zhong Shan flying.


    Like a cannonball, Zhong Shan shot downward into the valley below.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A thunderous crash echoed as Zhong Shan''s body smashed into a boulder, shattering it and raising a cloud of dust.


    The silver corpse had already caught up. Miao Xianren, struggling with his severed arm and face turning green, cast a venomous nce towards Zhong Shan and the ck-robed man before spitting out a mouthful of blood. Hastily, he retreated, disappearing from the ck-robed man''s sight in an instant.


    The ck-robed man watched the deadly exchange between Zhong Shan and Miao Xianren, confusion evident in his eyes. The zombies moved towards where Zhong Shan had fallen, but it seemed Zhong Shan had already fled.


    Miao Xianren had escaped, and Zhong Shan was nowhere to be found. The ck-robed man took a deep breath andmanded the zombies to return to him. With a wave of his hand, twenty-eight coffins suddenly appeared.


    There were twenty-four copper coffins, three silver coffins, and one gold coffin. The ck-robed man uttered a string of obscure and indistinguishable words, causing the zombies to lie down in the coffins and close the lids, an incredibly eerie sight.


    The ck-robed man then produced a handful of nails, tossing them precisely into the holes in the coffin lids, sealing them shut. He took out twenty-eight talismans and affixed one to each coffin. Finally, with another wave of his hand, the coffins disappeared as if stored in some magical container.


    After tidying everything up, the ck-robed man looked at the ground. The runes that had been there had now faded and disappearedpletely.


    "Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh..."


    After the ck-robed man had finished, a group of eight people suddenly flew over. None of them stood on magical artifacts; instead, they flew by manipting the air itself, indicating that they were at least at the Nascent Soul stage.


    The leader, dressed in a luxurious purple robe, looked like a middle-aged man with an aura of nobility and an imposing demeanor that suggested he regarded all living beings with indifference. The seven people behind him followed respectfully, treating him as their superior.


    "Mister Corpse," the man in the purple robe greeted the ck-robed man respectfully.


    Despite the ck-robed man''s apparent Golden Core stage strength, the purple-robed man, at least at the Nascent Soul stage, showed him great respect.


    "Your Majesty, I have investigated the mountain''syout. The ''Nine Dragons Heavenly Jade'' is not here," Mister Corpse reported.


    "Not here? Then it must be at Eight Gates Mountain," the purple-robed man, referred to as His Majesty, frowned thoughtfully.


    "Yes, we have already examined the other locations. Only Eight Gates Mountain remains, the source of the dragon''s roar," Mister Corpse nodded.


    "Then we rely on you, Mister," the purple-robed man said solemnly.


    "Rest assured, Your Majesty. As I promised, I will do my utmost to obtain the Nine Dragons Heavenly Jade for you," Mister Corpse nodded in agreement.


    "Then let''s go," the purple-robed man ordered.


    "Very well," Mister Corpse agreed.


    Mister Corpse then produced a wooden sword with a flip of his hand. With a gentle toss, it transformed into a flying sword, carrying him into the sky. The other eight followed suit, rising into the air and heading east.


    After the group left, from the pile of rubble where Zhong Shan had fallen, a shadow slowly emerged. The shadow solidified, gradually revealing Zhong Shan''s form. It was indeed Zhong Shan, though a trickle of blood seeped from the corner of his mouth, and he clutched his chest, showing the severity of Miao Xianren''s kick.


    Instead of tending to his injuries, Zhong Shan gazed in the direction Mister Corpse and his entourage had gone.


    "The Nine Dragons Heavenly Jade? Eight Gates Mountain, it''s indeed at Eight Gates Mountain," Zhong Shan muttered to himself.


    Chasing after them was clearly not an option now. The priority was to reunite with his true self and eliminate Miao Xianren.


    With a flicker, Zhong Shan once again became a shadow, vanishing from the spot like a phantom, swiftly moving through the dark forest.


    Miao Xianren, poisoned by the corpse toxin, had a face tinged green. He had been severely injured by the gold corpse, his right arm barely functional, and his left arm had been severed by Zhong Shan''s surprise attack. Blood trickled from the corner of his mouth, marking this as the most grievous injury he had ever sustained.


    As he stared at the severed limb clutched in his left hand, anger welled up within him. If not for the urgency of the situation, he would have torn Zhong Shan to pieces. He had been careless, too careless. Now, he wondered if there was any chance of reattaching his arm.


    Miao Xianren needed a secluded ce to quickly detoxify, heal, and reattach his arm. Otherwise, the dy would lead to his demise. Normally, he would never go to his own residence in such a situation, opting instead for a secret location. However, there was a precious item at Immortal''s Temple that he couldn''t leave behind. He had to retrieve it.


    Despite his severe injuries slowing him down considerably, he reached Immortal''s Temple before long. Clutching his severed arm, his face contorted with pain, veins bulging on his forehead as he gritted his teeth to endure it. As he reached the entrance, he suddenly paused, recalling Tian Ling''er and Ying Lan.


    Narrowing his eyes, Miao Xianren turned to look in a specific direction.


    "So, you all deceived me. But you are truly bold, still here? The tracking spell onlysts three days. Since you haven''t left, you''ll atone for Zhong Shan''s sins. As my cultivation furnaces, you''ll help me heal. Hmph, to repay Zhong Shan, I certainly won''t show you any mercy." With a cruel expression, Miao Xianren turned and sped towards Tian Ling''er''s location.


    In his mind, while the Hongluan Celestial Scripture might be ineffective against zombies, it was more than sufficient to deal with the two women.


    In the valley where Tian Ling''er and Ying Lan were, another figure had appeared: Zhong Shan, his true self. He looked at the two women with utmost seriousness.


    "Have you remembered everything I told you?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "Don''t worry," Tian Ling''er replied, nodding immediately.


    "Ying Lan, you are crucial. The Eight Bull Crossbow must not miss," Zhong Shan said, looking at Ying Lan.


    "Understood," Ying Lan nodded earnestly.


    Zhong Shan nodded. He had just arrived and had only given brief instructions to the two women, but with the urgency of the situation, there was no room for rxation.


    Sure enough, in that instant, Zhong Shan saw a streak of light shooting into the valley��Miao Xianren had returned.


    "Prepare!"


    Zhong Shan quickly hid behind a bush with Ying Lan, leaving Tian Ling''er standing alone in an open area.


    With a loud "Boom," Miao Xianren shattered a distant boulder, suddenly appearing near Tian Ling''er. He had stowed away his severed arm and now only had one functioning arm, his face a sickly green from the corpse poison. As he spotted Tian Ling''er holding the red silk, a cold glint shed in his eyes. He also knew, thanks to his tracking spell, that Ying Lan was hiding nearby.


    Miao Xianren nced towards Ying Lan''s hiding ce and narrowed his eyes. Suddenly, a thick red mist began to pour out from him, spreading towards both women.


    At this moment, Tian Ling''er suddenly produced two jade talismans, crystalline and transparent. She crushed them, releasing two beams of light��one fiery red and scorching hot, the other pure white and icy cold. A fire phoenix and an ice phoenix emerged, both energy constructs, vividly lifelike. Upon Tian Ling''er''smand, they shot towards Miao Xianren.


    "Phoenix Talismans?" Miao Xianren''s eyes widened in disbelief at the origin of the talismans.


    The fire and ice phoenixes were not particrly powerful, only capable of threatening someone at the initial Golden Core stage. Although Miao Xianren was severely injured, his reaction seemed excessive for such a threat.


    With only his right arm functional andckingbat strength due to his injuries from the gold corpse, Miao Xianren could only control his flying sword with his mind. The pink sword swiftly shot towards the ice phoenix.


    Miao Xianren was fast, but not faster than thought. As long as Tian Ling''er could keep her eyes on him, the phoenixes would be faster.


    The flying sword aimed at the ice phoenix, leaving Miao Xianren to face the fire phoenix head-on. Despite his severe injuries, he lifted his right leg and kicked at the fire phoenix with a burst of dissipating protective energy, turning into a dense killing aura. His kick collided with the seemingly all-consuming fire phoenix.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Miao Xianren''s powerful kick, despite his severe injuries, managed to dissipate the fire phoenix. The fire phoenix, capable of threatening someone at the initial Golden Core stage, did not vanish without consequence. Under Tian Ling''er''s full control, it broke through Miao Xianren''s protective aura around his leg. The aura dissipated, his pant leg was destroyed, and his knee turned charred and ckened.


    Meanwhile, the flying sword darted towards the ice phoenix. However, under Tian Ling''er''s control, the ice phoenix suddenly opened its mouth and mped down on the sword, preventing it from escaping and creating a stalemate.


    Miao Xianren''s eyes widened, and the flying sword burst into a brilliant light, shattering the ice phoenix in an instant. But just as the sword was freed, Miao Xianren felt a sudden, overwhelming sense of danger, as if his very pores were standing on end.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A massive arrow, like a spear, shot through Miao Xianren''s already injured right leg��the leg that had been severely burned by the fire phoenix. The immense force of the arrow drove Miao Xianren back, blood spraying everywhere. His leg was torn apart, the flesh shredded.


    This was the most severe injury he had ever suffered: both arms and a leg were nowpletely useless.


    Turning his head, he looked towards the direction from which the arrow hade��towards Ying Lan. Why? Why wasn''t she affected by the Hongluan mist?


    Nearby, Tian Ling''er quickly retreated, pulling away from the red mist while holding the red silk, which extended and entangled Miao Xianren''s flying sword.


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Miao Xianren let out a crazed scream. These mere ythings��he had fallen into the hands of these mere ythings. Though he realized he was doomed, his eyes still burned with hatred.


    But then, a figure appeared, turning Miao Xianren''s hatred into sheer terror, a fear as if he had fallen into an endless abyss.


    He saw Zhong Shan. How was this possible? Zhong Shan?


    Zhong Shan stood there, his presencemanding and unyielding. Miao Xianren''s heart sank as the reality of his situation fully dawned upon him.

 Chapter 69: The Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworm

    <h4>Chapter 69: The Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworm</h4>


    With Zhong Shan by her side, Ying Lan was naturally immune to the Hongluan mist. After firing her arrow, she quickly retreated to a safe distance.


    Zhong Shan, wielding arge de, swiftly emerged from his hiding ce. Miao Xianren was at his most vulnerable now. He had sustained heavy injuries from the gold corpse''s mighty palm strike and was further afflicted by the corpse poison. His right arm was crippled, his left arm severed by Zhong Shan''s surprise attack, his right leg pierced by the Eight Oxen Crossbow, and his flying sword entangled by the red silk.


    Despite this, Zhong Shan dared not be careless. Activating the second level of the Tianmo Body Tempering Technique, which tripled his strength, he charged towards Miao Xianren, his body surrounded by a dense killing aura.


    Miao Xianren''s eyes bulged with intense regret. He cursed himself for ever trusting Zhong Shan. At this moment, he couldn''t even fathom how Zhong Shan had appeared so suddenly. All he felt was overwhelming hatred as he saw Zhong Shan closing in. Gritting his teeth, Miao Xianren''s eyes red, and from his acupoints, more than a dozen sword auras burst forth, shooting towards Zhong Shan.


    As the sword auras erupted from his acupoints, the corpse poison within Miao Xianren''s body seemed to rampage even more, darkening his face.


    Zhong Shan''s strength had increased threefold, and he faced the iing sword auras with calm confidence. These sword auras were significantly weaker than those from their first encounter. With a fierce expression, Zhong Shan swung hisrge de wildly, unleashing a barrage of ten massive de auras to meet the iing sword auras. Simultaneously, he charged forward with relentless determination.


    For Zhong Shan, Miao Xianren''s death was the only way to end this conflict. He must die!


    "Boom! Boom...!"


    In a series of explosive shes, Miao Xianren''s sword auras were annihted by Zhong Shan''s de strikes. Now, therge de was mere inches from Miao Xianren. Terror filled Miao Xianren''s eyes��he, a cultivator of his level, felt fear facing someone still in the early stages of cultivation. Bloodshot eyes bulging, Miao Xianren supported himself on his nearly destroyed right leg and kicked at Zhong Shan with his left leg. He couldn''t release more sword auras; doing so would mean sumbing to the corpse poison even if Zhong Shan didn''t kill him. In the distance, his flying sword suddenly red with a bright light, breaking free of the red silk and shooting towards Zhong Shan.


    It was now a race against time.


    Zhong Shan exerted all his strength, eyes bulging with effort.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a mighty roar, Zhong Shan swung his de in a vertical sh from Miao Xianren''s left waist up to his right shoulder.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a single sh, Miao Xianren, still in disbelief, was cleaved in two. His pink flying sword, losing its momentum, veered off course and stabbed into the ground instead of Zhong Shan.


    "Pant... pant..." Zhong Shan took several deep breaths. It had been too close, too terrifying. He had almost met his end at Miao Xianren''s sword.


    Here is the trantion of the provided text into a lively and culturally fitting English version for a xianxia novel:


    This Miao Xianren, a cultivator at the Golden Core stage? His vitality was too tenacious, too formidable.


    Today''s events, although all orchestrated by Zhong Shan, also involved countless strokes of luck.


    Sheathing his de, Zhong Shan nced at the surrounding red mist. With a flick of his hand, arge amount of the Red Luan Mist was drawn back, condensing into his palm and absorbed by the Red Luan me between his brows.


    Taking a deep look at Miao Xianren, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but feel a surge of emotion. At this moment, Ying Lan and Tian Ling''er, who had packed away the Eight Bulls Crossbow, ran back from a distance, gazing at Zhong Shan with admiration.


    Golden Core stage��this was a Golden Core stage cultivator, and he had been cut down by Zhong Shan in a single strike?


    "Zhong Shan, you are truly amazing," Tian Ling''er couldn''t help but exim in awe. Golden Core stage, and mid-stage at that. Just moments ago, he was fine, but after a set of moves by Zhong Shan, hey dead before them. If she told her father, he would never believe it.


    "Of course, my great uncle is the best," Ying Lan said excitedly.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded, beginning to search Miao Xianren''s body.


    A storage bracelet and a flying sword. The storage bracelet was quickly opened by Zhong Shan. Half of the spatial expansion stone was ced into his own storage bracelet to expand its space, while the other half was kept for Yin Xu.


    "This sword is a third-tier magical treasure," Tian Ling''er exined immediately.


    Third-tier? So, with Miao Xianren''s death, this sword would forever remain at the third tier? Nevertheless, Zhong Shan kept it.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan said, grabbing Miao Xianren''s two-part body and leading the way.


    "Zhong Shan, where are you taking this corpse?" Tian Ling''er asked immediately.


    Zhong Shan didn''t answer. Instead, he led the two women back to the Immortal''s Watch, gazing at the deep pool. He tossed Miao Xianren''s body into it. A swarm of fish rushed over, voraciously devouring the body until it was reduced to bones in no time, erasing all evidence.


    Seeing what Zhong Shan had done, Ling''er took a deep breath, recalling the two women who had been killed earlier. This evil man got what he deserved.


    "Zhong Shan, how can there be such evil people in this world?" Tian Ling''er asked softly.


    "Evil?" Zhong Shan looked at Tian Ling''er and smiled.


    "Isn''t he evil? He''s the worst person in the world," Tian Ling''er argued.


    "This isn''t the worst," Zhong Shan shook his head and said.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Tian Ling''er once again opened her adorable little mouth in astonishment. Could there really be someone worse than Miao Xianren in this world?


    "Let''s not dwell on it. Let''s see what treasures this Immortal''s Watch holds that made him return here despite his serious injuries," Zhong Shan said.


    "Mm," Tian Ling''er nodded, while Ying Lan showed an excited expression.


    The three of them entered one of the rooms in the Immortal''s Watch.


    As they stepped into the room, far away, atop a mountain peak, stood two figures watching Zhong Shan and the others.


    One appeared to be a middle-aged man, standing like a servant behind the other. Both were dressed in white, each carrying a long sword on their back. The one in front was a young man, looking around twenty years old, but with a maturity that belied his youthful appearance.


    Seeing Zhong Shan enter the Immortal''s Watch, the young man spoke softly, "Chu Jiu, did you say that man is at the fourth level of Innate?"


    "Yes, Young Master, he is at the fourth level of Innate, just like you. However, he likely used some secret technique earlier, boosting his strength threefold. If you were to fight him, it would probably be a draw," the middle-aged man, Chu Jiu, replied respectfully.


    "A rare stepping stone, but he just used a secret technique. His strength must be greatly reduced now. Defeating him wouldn''t be honorable. We will have to wait for another opportunity," the young man said, furrowing his brow.


    "Perhaps there won''t be another chance. In such a vast world, who canpare to your talent? Even those who are hailed as the favored sons of heaven are not as gifted as you. This person may be formidable, but given time, you will surely leave him far behind," Chu Jiu said earnestly.


    "They? They only imitate the predecessors. The strongest path of the sword is one you create yourself, not one that mimics others. I will travel the world and forge my own path of the sword. With my swordsmanship, I will defeat all the heroes under heaven," the young man said lightly. Though his tone was not heavy, it carried a power that seemed to roar against the heavens.


    "You were born for the sword, Young Master. In the future, your sword will surely shake thend. Being assigned to your side is my fortune," Chu Jiu said sincerely.


    "Since we can''t fight him now, there''s no point in watching any longer. Let''s go to Eight Gates Mountain," the young man said after a moment of thought.


    "Yes," Chu Jiu responded solemnly.


    Immortal Pavilion consisted of eight chambers. Perhaps the most important items were stored in the bracelet of Immortal Miao. Most of the rooms contained silver tools, a testament to Immortal Miao''s fascination with such items. Even though Zhong Shan had anticipated this, he was still taken aback by the extent of it. Could it be that such tools had evolved to such a sophisticated level in this world?


    In one of the rooms, Zhong Shan found tworge ck robes, designed to cover the entire body, including the head. Without hesitation, he handed one to each of the two women. At the very least, these robes would conceal their extraordinary beauty from the eyes of others.


    After thoroughly searching all eight rooms and finding nothing else of interest, Zhong Shan wasn''t about to give up. He was an expert in such matters, after all. Finally, he discovered a hidden chamber.


    As the secret chamber opened, a rush of spiritual energy surged out. Zhong Shan exchanged a nce with the two women, their eyes filled with surprise.


    Ever cautious, Zhong Shan didn''t rush in. Instead, he waited patiently outside for a while, then used a small stone to test for any potential dangers. Once he was certain it was safe, he cautiously made his way into the underground chamber.


    Upon entering, Zhong Shan''s eyes widened in astonishment. He felt an overwhelming sense of happiness wash over him.


    Could it be that Immortal Miao had hidden such treasures here?


    The walls were lined with spirit stones��both Yin and Yang spirit stones, numbering in the thousands. The dense spiritual energy in the chamber was emitted by these stones, meticulously arranged to provide the room with an abundant supply of spiritual energy.


    In the western corner, there was a pile of empty spirit pearls, over fifty in total. Fifty empty spirit pearls? Incredible!


    However, what caught Zhong Shan''s attention the most were the two creatures at the center of the chamber.


    Silkworms? No, they weren''t silkworms, though they resembled them closely. They were two small, nine-colored creatures, about a foot long, spinning nine-colored silk threads. They looked like silkworms, but each had two tiny horns on its head.


    The nine-colored silk threads they spun formed a spherical cocoon, around which the two creatures continuously worked, spinningyer uponyer.


    "What are these?" Tian Ling''er asked, her eyes filled with wonder.


    Though Zhong Shan had only been cultivating for a short time, he recognized these creatures. They were mentioned in the "Heavenly Court Founding Manual," a crucial element for establishing an empire, much like the Nine Dragons Heavenly Jade. These were a pair of "Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworms."


    Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworms, which would transform into dragons upon exhausting their silk.

 Chapter 70: Chaos Before the Eight Gates Mountain

    <h4>Chapter 70: Chaos Before the Eight Gates Mountain</h4>


    Transforming from silkworms into dragons?


    The wise immortals awaited their transformation into dragons, aiming to tame them for their own use. The Nine-Colored Silkworm Silk was an extraordinary material, ideal for crafting treasures.


    Dragons? Zhongshan had no need for two silkworms turning into dragons. In fact, Zhongshan desired to kill the two silkworms. He only needed their bodies, but it wasn''t the right time yet, as the silk was not abundant enough.


    "Yinn, go fetch a wooden box. I need to take this item with me," Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes," Yinn immediately nodded and hurried out of the secret chamber.


    Zhongshan slowly approached the corner and with a flick of his hand, the numerous Spirit Beads were collected by him.


    "Linger, do you know where these Spirit Beadse from?" Zhongshan turned to Tianlinger and asked.


    Tianlinger, currently staring wide-eyed at the Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworms with curiosity, quickly turned her head upon Zhongshan''s question and replied, "I''m not entirely sure, but ording to my father, Spirit Beads, also known as the ''Heaven and Earth Furnace'', are gifts from heaven. They are bestowed once every hundred years, and powerful beings from all cornerse to collect them."


    "Hmm?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows, a hint of surprise shing in his eyes. Gifts from heaven? Heaven and Earth Furnace?


    Soon, Yinn brought a small wooden box, just big enough to contain the Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworms. She also fetched a bedsheet to wrap around the box and tie it to her body.


    Storage bracelets could hold objects but not living creatures, which was why the wise immortal hadn''t stored them in the bracelets earlier.


    Looking at these two rare treasures of heaven and earth, Zhongshan couldn''t help but sigh. The wise immortal''s luck was truly extraordinary. Finding such treasures, he had even considered giving up on searching for the Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworms. Now, with the Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworms in hand, it was like adding wings to a tiger.


    The Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworms were as harmless as ordinary silkworms, showing no signs of aggression. Zhongshan gently picked them up and ced them in the wooden box. He then dug out two spirit stones from the wall and ced them inside before sealing the box.


    Looking at Yinn, Zhongshan suddenly said, "Yinn, carry this on your back and tuck it inside your ck robe."


    Yinn hesitated for a moment but nodded. She quickly tore the bedsheet into smaller pieces, wrapped the wooden box, and tucked it under her ck robe, covering her entire body. However, the appearance made her look like a camel wrapped in a ck robe.


    Satisfied with Yinn''s appearance, Zhongshan chuckled, "Scavenge the spirit stones, then let''s go."


    "Yes," both girls nodded quickly and swiftly removed the spirit stones from the wall, cing them in their respective waist pouches.


    There were tens of thousands of spirit stones. Zhongshan decided: Tianlinger received eight thousand, Yinn got twelve hundred, and Zhongshan himself took only a few hundred. On one hand, Tianlinger and Yinn were one entity, and since Zhongshan had obtained the Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworms, it was natural for Tianlinger to receive more. On the other hand, Tianlinger was about to break through to the Golden Core stage, so Zhongshan wanted to leave more for her, while he and Yinn didn''t currently need much.


    "Zhongshan, why did you only take so few?" Tianlinger, unwilling to take advantage of Zhongshan, asked. It seemed as if she was unhappy with taking too much for herself.


    "You''re about to break through to the Golden Core stage soon. Keep it for yourself for now. If I need itter, I''ll ask you for it," Zhongshan replied.


    "Okay." Hearing Zhongshan''s consideration for her, Tianlinger felt warm inside. She simply nodded and remained silent.


    As for Yinn, she didn''t say anything. In her eyes, whatever Grandpa did, there must be a reason for it.


    "Grandpa, should we continue heading east? What if there''s another danger?" Yinn immediately asked.


    "ording to the information revealed by the wise immortal before, it''s only two days to the east, but it would take at least three days to return. Would going back mean we won''t encounter danger again? Besides, there are people from the Kaiyang Sect at the Eight Gates Mountain. It should be safer there, and with more people, we''ll be safer," Zhongshan exined.


    "Okay," Yinn nodded.


    The three of them exited the secret chamber. Zhongshan destroyed the secret chamber with a big sword and then led the two girls wrapped in ck robes. They continued their journey towards the east.


    A dayter, the aftereffects of the demon body refining technique had disappeared. The hidden body also caught up with the main body, and in a casual moment, all the remaining Xuanyuan Stones were given to the hidden body, merging the two into one.


    Another day passed, and the three finally arrived at the so-called Eight Gates Mountain. Although there were traces of cultivators passing by on the ground, they no longer needed to look for those traces because a strange scene appeared before them.


    A sandstorm, a massive sandstorm, shrouded an area of ??a hundred miles in all directions. Endless sand and dust filled the air, gathering at the center but not dispersing, instead swirling wildly.


    Looking at the sandstorm, it seemed to exude an aura of war and aggression, instilling fear in anyone whoid eyes on it.


    A sandstorm in the depths of the mountain forest? That could only be a massive array.


    "The Eight Gates Mountain, the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array?" Zhongshan muttered, his gaze focused.


    Outside the periphery, there was calm, with only that area engulfed by the sandstorm.


    At the same time, standing on a small hill, Zhongshan could already see numerous cultivators. They were scattered around, standing in various directions, all staring at the massive sandstorm in front of them. Some dared to venture into the sandstorm, but once inside, they never came out again. asionally, two would emerge, but they would be covered in blood, their eyes bloodshot, clearly having encountered something unimaginable inside.


    "Grandpa, is this... is this the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array?" Yinn, unable to believe what she was seeing, asked incredulously through her ck robe.


    This was vastly different from the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array she had set up before. Or perhaps, the one she had set up before was a simplified version of a battle array.


    Zhongshan didn''t answer immediately. Instead, he looked towards the surrounding areas. While most were quietly observing, there were still many ces where people were engaged in fierce battles. Some groups even numbered in the hundreds, requiring caution in such a ce.


    "Zhongshan, is that Third Senior Sister? Or Senior Brother?" Tianlinger suddenly eximed excitedly to Zhongshan.


    Hearing Tianlinger''s words, Zhongshan felt relieved. No matter what, encountering people from the Kaiyang Sect here was better than being alone.


    Tianlinger didn''t notice that when she saw people from the Kaiyang Sect this time, the first person she called out to was Third Senior Sister, not Senior Brother. Perhaps Tianlinger herself hadn''t realized her own change.


    Following Tianlinger''s gaze, Zhongshan looked towards the summit of a distant mountain. There were two figures, one of them being Tian Kill. Tian Kill was dressed in a ck robe, with a cloak fluttering behind him in the mountain breeze. His expression was grave, his left hand gripping the sword sheath at his waist, while his right hand held the sword hilt in a peculiar manner. A peculiar posture?


    The Sword Technique of Sky shing and Sword Drawing. Thest time he used it was when he killed an old eunuch.


    Facing Tian Kill was a man in a red blood-stained robe. He wielded a blood-stained sword, its de radiating a sinister light, drops of blood oozing from it. At this moment, he stared coldly at Tian Kill, as if he was about to strike at any moment and sever Tian Kill''s head from his shoulders.


    The two men faced each other, their momentum escting continuously. They were both waiting for the opportune moment. They refrained from attacking for now, but once they did, it would surely be earth-shattering.


    Not far from the two men, the people from the Kaiyang Sect were anxiously waiting. Led by Bei Qingsi, there were now only seven of them left, two fewer than when theyst encountered Zhongshan.


    Behind the man in the red blood-stained robey three corpses, all split in half with a single strike.


    Zhongshan was positioned to the northwest of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array, while the standoff between Tian Kill and the blood-haired man was in the northwest. At this moment, to the north of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array, another group of people was watching Tian Kill''s location.


    Princess Qianyou, Gu Lin, and Mister Shuijing.


    "Mr. Shuijing, who do you think will win between these two?" Princess Qianyou asked with a faint smile. Her eyes sparkled, concealing her true thoughts.


    "Kaiyang Sect, Sword Technique of Sky shing and Sword Drawing. Princess, who do you think will win?" Mister Shuijing lightly waved his feather fan and chuckled.


    "The Sword Technique of Sky shing and Sword Drawing hasn''t been practiced by anyone for a thousand years, has it?" Princess Qianyou didn''t answer directly but instead spoke lightly while gazing at Tian Kill in the distance.


    "They''re from the Kaiyang Sect?" Gu Lin suddenly eximed in surprise.


    "Yes, they are indeed from the Kaiyang Sect. Mister, do you need their assistance?" Princess Qianyou immediately asked.


    "If there''s such assistance avable, why not use it? But it will require your persuasion, Princess," Mister Shuijing nodded and replied.


    "Qianyou, do you have the Elder''s Order of the Kaiyang Sect?" Gu Lin asked immediately.


    "I don''t have the Elder''s Order of the Kaiyang Sect, but I have the Elder''s Order of the Yuheng Sect. It can stillmand them," Princess Qianyou said, gazing into the distance.


    "These are all Golden Core stage cultivators. They will be of great use when it''s time to break the array," Mister Shuijing nodded approvingly while gently swaying his feather fan.


    Between Zhongshan and Tian Kill, there was another peak. On top of the peak, only two men were fighting, both dressed in white robes with swords on their backs. One appeared to be a young man standing in front, while behind him was a middle-aged man with the appearance of an ordinary mortal.


    "Ninth, how are the sword techniques of these two men?" the youth asked calmly while staring in Tian Kill''s direction.


    "The person in the ck robe uses the ''Sword Technique of Sky shing and Sword Drawing,'' an excellent sword technique. As the sword is unsheathed, it gathers the power of stored energy and explodes at once, possessing immense power. Often, a single strike can kill the opponent, or even threaten those beyond one''s own level. The Kaiyang Sect hasn''t seen anyone practicing this sword technique for a thousand years. This person is at the ninth level of Golden Core stage. His sword strikes could even pose a threat to those in the early stages of the Nascent Soul realm. The person in the red robe uses the ''Blood-Drinking Sword Technique.'' This sword technique requires countless killings to cultivate, with the long sword drinking the blood of thousands. It''s a sinister sword technique known for its ruthless strikes. Although it''s not as powerful as the Sword Technique of Sky shing and Sword Drawing, it''s still formidable. This person is at the tenth level of Golden Core stage, with a profound cultivation level, only a step away from the Nascent Soul realm," Ninth exined in detail, as if he were well-versed in the subject.


    Upon hearing Ninth''s exnation, the youth nodded slightly and said, "Ninth, having you is like having all the sword techniques in the world. There''s nothing about swordsmanship that you don''t know."


    "Noble praise, but there are countless sword techniques in the world, and I cannot possibly know them all. These two sword techniques are recorded in the archives of the Wan Sword Pavilion. I was fortunate enough to have the chance to read about them," Ninth replied immediately.


    "Mm." The youth nodded in agreement and said no more.

 Chapter 71: Slaughtering the Small Fry

    <h4>Chapter 71: ughtering the Small Fry</h4>


    Zhongshan spotted the Kaiyang Sect disciples in the distance and felt a surge of joy.


    "Let''s go, we''ll head over there now," Zhongshan said.


    "Yeah," the two girls nodded, following Zhongshan down the hill, heading towards the northwest where the Kaiyang Sect disciples were located within the grand array.


    Along the way, Zhongshan tried to keep a low profile, but even so, there were still a few pairs of eyes watching him.


    Not far from Zhongshan''s location, within a forest, there were four pairs of eyes.


    Four men gazed at Zhongshan, and if Zhongshan noticed, he would have recognized them. Two of them were the junior disciples of the Zhao family who were sent to the Immortal Sect during the Dragon Gate Convention, while the other two were junior disciples sent by the Qian family.


    They were all Zhongshan''s juniors, but their aptitude and luck were much better than Zhongshan''s.


    "Is that Zhongshan? Last time at the Dragon Gate Valley, he already looked younger, but I didn''t expect him to look even younger in just over a year."


    "Ancestor... no, it should be Senior Brother. Did Senior Brother and the n leaders fail to kill Zhongshan?"


    "It seems Zhongshan hase here, and the n leaders have missed their chance."


    "Yeah, I didn''t expect Zhongshan to have such good luck."


    "What should we do now? Should we take action against him?"


    "His aptitude is extremely poor, but his methods in the mortal world are surprisingly strong. Keeping him alive will threaten our Zhao family sooner orter. Since Senior Brother and the n leaders haven''t encountered him, let''s take him out on behalf of the n leaders. It''s also a way to repay the secr Zhao family."


    "Yeah, Zhongshan has only be a cultivator for a little over a year. He definitely doesn''t have any powerful techniques, and his cultivation is inferior to ours. But those two people in ck robes behind him, I don''t know their origins."


    "Their origins? You don''t need to worry. Those two people in ck robes must be Zhongshan''s subordinates, and their strength definitely doesn''t match Zhongshan''s. The four of us should have no problem dealing with them."


    "Alright," the other three nodded in agreement.


    Then, the four men dashed out of the woods and intercepted Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan paused as four more figures suddenly appeared in front of him. Another group blocking his path?


    As Zhongshan examined the faces of the four men, his eyes narrowed gradually. He slowly drew therge de from his back. Zhongshan recognized them��they were the Zhao and Qian family members chosen by the Immortal Sect this time. Unexpectedly, he encountered these old foes here.


    Zhongshan had seen all sorts of situations. Even the cultivators at the Golden Core stage were in by him not long ago. These four youngsters wouldn''t stand a chance against him.


    However, facing four opponents, Zhongshan, with his cautious nature, wouldn''t ck off at this moment.


    "Ling''er, protect Yinn. I''ll deal with these four," Zhongshan whispered to the girls.


    "Zhong, long time no see," one of them said with a sword in hand, smiling.


    "Why are you blocking my path?" Zhongshan asked in a deep voice.


    "Haha... You''ve already drawn your de. Don''t you know?" another one mocked.


    "You four came with swords. Naturally, I must be prepared. But do you really think you can kill me?" Zhongshan continued, squinting.


    "Why would we need all four of us to kill you? I alone..." one of them mocked, but before he could finish his sentence, Zhongshan leaped forward, wielding his de. With immense ferocity, Zhongshan struck down fiercely towards the person who was speaking.


    With a swift and forceful strike, Zhongshan''s de carried an overwhelming aura. It caught the person off guard, and in a hurry, he raised his sword to block.


    The other three also hurriedly swung their swords to rescue, but Zhongshan''s attack was too sudden. With all his strength and the ultimate move of the Great Yang Divine Art, Zhongshan struck directly at the weakest point of the opponent''s sword.


    <i>ng!</i>


    <i>Boom!</i>


    In just one move, the sword broke, and the person was cleaved in half by Zhongshan''s de,pletely extinguished.


    Zhongshan was too dominant. Even without using the Demonic Body Refinement Technique, in a situation where their Qi levels were equal, he could deliver a fatal blow without any hesitation.


    Before the blood could stter, Zhongshan quickly twisted his body to evade the swords of the other three.


    Though the two girls trusted Zhongshan''s strength from a distance, they couldn''t help but feel worried.


    Zhongshan dodged the swords of the three men and swung his de towards another person.


    <i>ng!</i>


    As the des shed, both men retreated swiftly.


    At that moment, the three men finally realized the magnitude of their mistake. Their family elders sought the help of their ancestors to deal with Zhongshan, showing how seriously they regarded him. Yet, they recklessly rushed forward without proper consideration. Zhongshan''s swift execution of one of them served as a stark wake-up call, forcing them to sober up and no longer underestimate Zhongshan. They quickly coordinated their efforts to avenge their fallenrade.


    ��ɽ''s lips curled into a cold smile as he swung his long de, swiftly charging towards the spot where the three men had surrounded him.


    Zhongshan wasn''t showing off; whether it was swordsmanship or knife skills, they both required stepping stones to achieve higher levels. Practicing a set of knife techniques alone every day might increase their power, but it wouldn''t be as effective as realbat.


    Zhongshan plunged into the fray, spinning around his body.


    <i>ng, ng, ng!</i>


    With each twist, he deflected three long swords. Zhongshan''s precision was impable; every sh urred precisely at the weakest point of the opponents'' swords.


    With minimal effort, he disarmed all three opponents, simultaneously delivering a sidelong sh.


    He struck mercilessly!


    With one fell swoop, another person''s chest was shed open, a result of everyone''s cautious approach. Otherwise, they would have already been disemboweled by Zhongshan.


    The intense battle below quickly drew the attention of many factions. However, upon seeing that the four fighters had only formed a faint aura of Qi around their swords, without fully manifesting their Qi into sword energy, many were disappointed. Afterward, some turned their gaze back to Tian Sha."Is it just him? Only at the Innate Realm, and yet he dares to enter the battlefield?" Gu Lin shook his head in disbelief.


    Hearing Gu Lin''s words, Mr. Shuijing didn''t say much either, just smiling and nodding with his feather fan. Princess Qian You, however, nodded as if agreeing with Mr. Shuijing''s words.


    Although everyone''s attention was on Tian Sha''s mountain peak, the sudden sounds of battle below still caught the attention of some, especially Qing Si.


    Qing Si turned her head to look and her eyes widened. Zhongshan? How could Zhongshan be here? And he was fighting alongside three others. Qing Si immediately turned her flying sword towards Zhongshan''s direction.


    <i>Swish~</i>


    Zhongshan blocked two long swords with a single sh, then swiftly dispatched another Innate Fourth Stage expert with another strike.


    An expert? What''s an expert to him? Despite Zhongshan''s poor innate talent and slow cultivation speed, his insight was extraordinary. He had mastered his knife skills to perfection and even expanded their power ording to his own insights. Facing three opponents without fear, he effortlessly eliminated another one. After fighting for a while, instead of feeling exhausted, Zhongshan felt his entire body rxed.


    Only two opponents remained. With a fierce gaze, Zhongshan aimed his long de at them.


    His intimidating re made the two opponents feel a tightening in their chests. There was a sense of urgency to escape. With only two of them left, a feeling of deathly fear quickly spread throughout their bodies, greatly reducing theirbat effectiveness.


    As Qing Si flew closer...


    <i>Swish~</i>


    Another fierce strike, and another opponent fell to Zhongshan''s de.


    Thest remaining opponent turned and fled, having lost the will to fight. But Zhongshan was relentless. Seeing the fleeing figure, he infused his long de with Qi and threw it.


    <i>Swish~</i>


    A strike through the heart!


    But some still watched Zhongshan, especially those at the Innate Realm. Zhongshan''s fight was easier for them to understand. One against three? No, one against four, and yet he had already in one?


    On a nearby mountain peak, Chi Jiu furrowed his brows. "Young Master, the injuries caused by this person''s secret technique seem to have healed? It''s strange; it''s only been two days."


    The young man nced down at Zhongshan and a glint of understanding shed in his eyes. "Really? He''s healed? Good then."


    Simrly, to the north of the formation, Princess Qian You spotted Zhongshan''s group. Upon recognizing Zhongshan''s face, she furrowed her brow, a hint of puzzlement in her eyes.


    "He''s not dead?" Princess Qian You eximed in surprise.


    Beside her, Mr. Shuijing also saw Zhongshan and nodded. "His name seems to be Zhongshan, Innate Fourth Stage. His knife skills are unexpectedly fierce. If he were to enter the battlefield, he would undoubtedly be a formidable general."

 Chapter 72: Even Heroes Feel Down Sometimes

    <h4>Chapter 72: Even Heroes Feel Down Sometimes</h4>


    Beiqingsi flew closer, only to see Zhongshan slowly retrieve his de.


    From the dense murderous aura on the swords of the three before, it was easy to tell that all three were at the fourth stage of the Innate realm, simr to Zhongshan. However, they were all killed by Zhongshan, who emerged unscathed. No injuries at all?


    With widened eyes, Beiqingsi looked somewhat dazed. She was surprised. Many onlookers also revealed expressions of shock. After all, defeating four opponents single-handedly was quite astonishing. This person''s swordsmanship was too exquisite, and his demeanor too ferocious.


    "Third Senior Sister," Tianlinger''s call instantly drew Zhongshan''s attention and snapped Beiqingsi out of her reverie.


    Turning her head, Beiqingsi indeed found herself suspended mid-air.


    "Ling''er?" Beiqingsinded in front of Tianlinger, a hint of surprise flickering in her eyes.


    Tianlinger immediately removed her hat, revealing a brilliant smile.


    "How did you two end up here?" Beiqingsi nced at Tianlinger and then at Zhongshan, while also casting a skeptical nce at the other figure in ck robes.


    "Grandpa, who is she?" Enn pouted from within the ck robes, addressing Zhongshan.


    For some reason, upon Beiqingsi''s approach, Enn felt a sense of urgency. Beiqingsi was too perfect. Even with her white hair, she seemed to bebeled as perfect. Perfect? What did perfection have to do with herself? But, as Beiqingsi flew over, Enn couldn''t help but feel a strange sense of hostility.


    Grandpa?


    Upon Beiqingsi''s approach, she was puzzled about who the other person in ck robes was. However, upon hearing a melodious voice calling Zhongshan "grandpa," Beiqingsi was once again stunned. An expression of infinite astonishment appeared on her face.


    Grandpa? She called Zhongshan grandpa?


    "This is my friend," Zhongshan said to Enn.


    However, he didn''t introduce Enn to Beiqingsi because it would pose a problem regarding their status.


    Beiqingsi looked at Enn in the ck robes with some surprise, a strange expression on her face.


    "Third Senior Sister, why is Senior Brother fighting with that person?" Tianlinger asked in confusion.


    "That''s the Blood Sword Sect''s Sect Master, Xuesha. A few days ago, when we entered the Great Array, two of our junior brothers died at the hands of Xuesha''s disciples. Senior Brother ughtered the entire Blood Sword Sect in revenge, and just now, Xuesha received news and rushed here to fight Senior Brother to the death," Beiqingsi exined.


    "Surely, that person''s strength is not as good as Senior Brother''s," Tianlinger said, looking into the distance.


    "No, Senior Brother is at the ninth stage of the Golden Core realm, while Xuesha is at the tenth stage," Beiqingsi frowned, looking towards the distant mountain peak.


    "Ah? Then why don''t they attack together?" Tianlinger asked in confusion. During the time spent with Zhongshan, Tianlinger had learned that in dangerous situations, it''s best to gang up on opponents, just like with the Immortal two days ago.


    "Senior Brother said he can handle it. He asked us to watch out for any ambushes," Beiqingsi nced at the distant Sky Killer, a hint of admiration in her eyes. To confront the strong with the weak was indeed different. Sky Killer was truly extraordinary.


    Zhongshan remained silent regarding Sky Killer''s actions. If it were before they entered Kaiyang Sect, Zhongshan would have scoffed at it. In a life and death situation, not giving it your all, and still talking about fairness and justice? However, in the two years since entering the immortal sect, Zhongshan gradually realized that many times, pushing oneself into a corner was the best way to unleash one''s potential.


    Sky Killer and Xuesha had been confronting each other for three hours already. Within these three hours, neither of them had moved. However, anyone with discerning eyes could tell that at this moment, the area around them was the most dangerous.


    Because both of them were steadily increasing their momentum, but their breaths were contained within their bodies, like two statues, motionless. Yet, these two statues, once in motion, would surely bring about earth-shattering destruction.


    The innate-stage cultivators couldn''t even get close, and those at the Golden Core stage knew the terrifying momentum of the two. Although no aura was emitted, the oppressive force seemingly made everyone struggle to breathe.


    One was the Sect Master of the Blood Sword Sect, the other was the second-generation disciple of Kaiyang Sect, with a high possibility of bing the future Sect Master of Kaiyang Sect.


    Both were determined to kill.


    Three hours had passed, three hours, and no one had moved. They were all searching for each other''s weaknesses. Even the slightest w would result in the release of all the umted momentum and power.


    Xuesha hadn''t expected the opponent to be so strong. He was just on the verge of reaching the Nascent Soul stage himself, but at this moment, he couldn''t suppress the opponent''s momentum. How could this be? Was Kaiyang Sect really this powerful?


    At this critical moment, Xuesha suddenly felt a twinge in his heart��opportunity had arrived.


    "Swoosh~"


    Sky Killer drew his sword.


    In that instant when Sky Killer drew his sword, Xuesha also swung his sword, gathering all his strength for a single strike, intending to drench his de in the blood of his enemy.


    Zhongshan had been staring into the distance, his eyes unblinking. Last time, Sky Killer''s speed was too fast for him to see clearly, but this time, he must observe carefully.


    Zhongshan saw it: the moment Sky Killer''s longsword emerged, it seemed to burst with infinite radiance, as if the world suddenly dimmed, leaving only the brightness on the edge of the sword. Seeing that brilliance, Zhongshan''s mind couldn''t help but be drawn to it.


    In that fleeting moment, as the sword was unsheathed, perhaps because he was farther away this time, Zhongshan''s eyes didn''t turnpletely white.


    Under Zhongshan''s focused gaze, he saw the sword emerge, but the speed was too fast. Zhongshan could only see a blurry moment.


    As the sword was unsheathed, a white light shot into the sky, and it seemed as if the opposite side was filled with the color of a blood sea. In Zhongshan''s peripheral vision, he felt that after Xuesha unleashed his sword, that area turned entirely crimson, like a sea of blood, while Sky Killer''s sword seemed like a bright light piercing through the clouds.


    The light was like a longsword, cutting through the clouds like withered branches. At that moment, Zhongshan felt a peculiar sensation. Sky Killer''s sword seemed like a descending beam of light from the heavens, piercing through the clouds. Was it light or a sword? Zhongshan couldn''t quite tell.


    "Swoosh~"


    With a crisp sound, the light suddenly disappeared, and the blood mist in Zhongshan''s peripheral vision also dispersed.


    It was too fast, too powerful. Even though Zhongshan had reached the fourth stage of the Innate realm, he still couldn''t see clearly this incredibly dominant sword strike.


    With the previous crisp sound, the brief exchange ended. Sky Killer sheathed his sword, while on the other side, the blood-colored longsword in Xuesha''s hand was snapped in two. Gripped in his hand was only the hilt. Xuesha didn''t make another move and couldn''t make another move.


    A crack on Xuesha''s head, face, and chest��a crack that served as evidence of his demise.


    Sky Killer''s single sword strike had cut the powerful Xuesha into two halves. Dead.


    After two breaths, arge amount of blood gushed from the crack on Xuesha''s face, and his body slowly copsed. Split in two, he died without aplete corpse. The generation of Sect Master had vanished into history.


    People from various sects and schools, as long as they had witnessed that single sword strike just now, all revealed deep shock and fear. Kaiyang Sect? Was this the power of an Immortal sect?


    "How was that sword strike, Jiuyi?" A young man on the nearby mountain asked the middle-aged man behind him.


    "This person''sprehension is exceptional. He has already grasped the mysteries of the firstyer of the Soul-Cleaving technique. With equal strength, he is qualified to challenge the Young Master," Jiuyi replied in a deep voice.


    "Is he aware of the opportunity to learn Kaiyang Sect''s Heaven-Cleaving Sword Technique?" The young man squinted as he looked into the distance, a hint of eagerness shing in his eyes.


    To the north of the great array, Princess Qianyou spoke softly, "The Heaven-Cleaving Sword Technique is truly worthy of its reputation."


    On the side, Mr. Shuijing shook his feather fan and said, "This young man''sprehension is exceptional. With this one sword strike, he can challenge some Nascent Soul stage cultivators."


    Zhongshan clenched his fists, his eyes unwavering. Golden Core stage? Was this the Golden Core stage? Then what about Prince Li Tian?


    "Senior Brother is really amazing," Tianlinger said from the side. However, her tone was no longer as excited as before. Compared to Zhongshan''s previous defeat of the Immortal, the more victories he achieved at higher realms, the less sensational it became.


    Enn had remained silent the whole time. After all, her strength was too low. She only saw the dazzling light and then it disappeared, so she didn''t have much toment on.


    "Let''s go up the mountain," Beiqingsi said.


    "Mm," Zhongshan nodded.


    Carrying Enn, they swiftly headed towards the peak where Sky Killer was. However, Beiqingsi and Tianlinger flew up, though not at a fast pace, waiting for them.


    With one sword strike to resolve Xuesha, Sky Killer also had a faint sweat on his forehead. However, he concealed it well and it quickly evaporated.


    Facing Xuesha alone was both to sharpen his swordsmanship and to unleash his potential. But it was also for Beiqingsi. He wanted to impress upon her his dominance with that single strike, to conquer her psychologically.


    The one sword strike seeded. Anyone standing nearby would be left with an indelible impression of Sky Killer''s unrivaled prowess.


    As Sky Killer slowly turned his head, expecting to see Beiqingsi''s different expression, he suddenly found her missing?


    Missing? Sky Killer felt a bit annoyed. He turned his head and happened to see Beiqingsi talking to another man.


    Another man? Sky Killer''s heart sank, a hint of coldness in his eyes. He focused his gaze and realized it was none other than Zhongshan, the third-generation disciple who had recently joined Kaiyang Sect.


    The third-generation disciple was of no concern to Sky Killer, especially Zhongshan. Recalling his Master''s evaluation of Zhongshan''s poor aptitude, he was even less worthy of Sky Killer''s attention. In Sky Killer''s eyes, he was like a stinking bug. But with just this one stinking bug, Beiqingsi was willing to risk her life to greet him? Did Beiqingsi value Zhongshan''s arrival more than his own life and death?

 Chapter 73: Intentional?

    <h4>Chapter 73: Intentional?</h4>


    At first, Sky Killer felt a twinge of resentment, but he was soon drawn to Tianlinger, who was beside Beiqingsi. So Beiqingsi went to greet Tianlinger. No wonder! It made sense, right? How could Beiqingsi possibly be interested in that stinking bug?


    Quickly adjusting his mindset, Sky Killer ignored Zhongshan and focused on Beiqingsi. But deep down, he harbored a deep sense of wariness towards Zhongshan.


    While Zhongshan waited for Enn, Beiqingsi and Tianlinger waited for Zhongshan, so their pace wasn''t fast. However, it didn''t take long for them to reach the peak where Sky Killer was.


    Sky Killer had been watching this group of people. Enn was wrapped in a ck robe, but her speed clearly didn''t even reach the Innate realm. Whoever she was, there was no need to pay much attention to her. But why was Tianlinger here?


    "Senior Brother," Tianlinger eximed with a slight joy on her face.


    Perhaps due to the pir of faith in her heart, even as Sky Killer''s brilliance faded in Tianlinger''s heart, as long as there was a little bit left, she still admired Sky Killer. Though it had diminished a lot now, seeing Sky Killer still stirred some excitement in her heart.


    Sky Killer nced at Beiqingsi, then at Tianlinger, and asked, "Tianlinger, how did you find your way here?"


    "I... I heard that someone died in Kaiyang Sect, so I was worried and asked Zhongshan to bring me here," Tianlinger said, seeming a bit shy. Considering the terror of encountering the Immortal before, everything now seemed worth it.


    "Tianlinger was worried about Senior Brother," Yunqian teased from the side.


    Yunqian was joking, but Tianlinger didn''t feel annoyed. Her face turned bright red, clearly showing her shyness.


    Beiqingsi nced at Tianlinger, then at Sky Killer, with a look of enlightenment on her face.


    Seeing Beiqingsi''s expression, Sky Killer immediately became annoyed, furrowing his brow as he scolded Yunqian, "What nonsense are you talking about? People have died over there, and you''re not going to search for their treasures?"


    "Alright, with this Master''s storage bracelet and the Wishful Stone, we''ll definitely get a lot more. Let''s go," Yunqian called out to the other disciples of Kaiyang Sect.


    The members of Kaiyang Sect quickly headed towards the corpses.


    Meanwhile, Zhongshan nced at Tianlinger''s slightly blushing face, thought for a moment, then interjected, "Tianlinger heard that someone in Kaiyang Sect had died and was extremely worried about you, Master Uncle. Anyone could see that Tianlinger is concerned about you. I hope Master Uncle will cherish her affection and not disappoint Tianlinger''s sincerity."


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Tianlinger''s heart tightened. Was Zhongshan confessing to Sky Killer on her behalf?


    What Zhongshan said was exactly what Tianlinger had wanted to express for a long time, but due to her reserve, she hadn''t been able to say it herself. Now that Zhongshan had spoken up, Tianlinger found herself strangely resistant to the idea of Zhongshan speaking on her behalf. Anyone else could have done it, but not Zhongshan. She didn''t even want Zhongshan to know that she cared about Sky Killer.


    Tianlinger felt a tightness in her chest but still kept her eyes on Sky Killer. Her faith in him was deeply ingrained.


    Many times, Tianlinger had imagined confessing her feelings to Sky Killer and eagerly awaited his nod of approval. But now that the moment had arrived, Tianlinger didn''t feel the excitement she had imagined. She hoped Sky Killer would nod, yet at the same time, she had a vague feeling that he might shake his head.


    Sky Killer felt extremely frustrated at this moment. He nced at Zhongshan with some resentment. Hadn''t he noticed Tianlinger''s admiration for him? He had his own ns and goals, and Beiqingsi was his target. In a different setting, Sky Killer could have gently persuaded Tianlinger to let go of her childish affection, but at this moment...


    "Well, Tianlinger''s feelings are well known throughout Kaiyang Sect," Beiqingsi said, nodding along with Zhongshan as if she had yed a part in fostering this potential rtionship.


    Sky Killer already felt a sense of internal conflict, and Beiqingsi''s words only added insult to injury.


    Shaking his head, Sky Killer immediately said, "Beiqingsi, how could you think like that? Tianlinger has grown up under our care. How could I have any feelings for her? Tianlinger is still young and her mind is not mature enough. When she grows up, she will surely find a partner who is a hundred times better than me."


    Killer made his statement, which was expected by Beiqingsi, so she nodded in agreement and didn''t say much more.


    However, for Tianlinger, Sky Killer''s words felt like a sharp knife stabbing into her heart. The pir of her faith copsed, leaving her in infinite despair. Tears streamed down her face, and her once flushed cheeks turned deathly pale. The towering image of Sky Killer in her mind suddenly transformed into a monstrous demon devouring her heart.


    Just as despair overwhelmed her, Tianlinger suddenly felt a tight grip on her right hand. A hot,forting hand held hers tightly, flooding her body with an infinite strength that dispelled the coldness within her.


    With this surge of "power," Tianlinger''s dizziness subsided, and the darkness around her slowly dissipated. When she turned her head, she saw that Zhongshan had somehow appeared beside her, his face filled with concern as he held her hand tightly.


    Seeing Zhongshan, Tianlinger couldn''t help but feel a warm sensation in her heart. The despair she had felt moments ago vanished as if it had never existed. The sun was still shining brightly, and the world remained intact. Everything was fine. Even without Sky Killer, she was still herself. She still had Zhongshan, her father, and Little Nanzi.


    Zhongshan had sensed that something was wrong when he heard Sky Killer''s response to Beiqingsi. He knew Tianlinger wouldn''t be able to bear it. True to his instincts, tears welled up in Tianlinger''s eyes, and she almost stumbled. Zhongshan immediately rushed to her side, grabbed her hand, and held her tightly, as if imparting strength to her. Tianlinger''s condition improved significantly. Her pale face regained its luster, and her eyes, which had seemed empty before, quickly regained their focus. Though tears still flowed, everything seemed to be moving in a positive direction. As Zhongshan continued to hold her hand tightly, unknowingly, this invisible strength became deeply etched in Tianlinger''s heart forever.


    After speaking to Beiqingsi, Sky Killer regretfully witnessed Tianlinger''s tears. Though he felt a pang of remorse, he steeled himself to maintain his stance. It wasn''t that Sky Killer had no feelings for Tianlinger; it was just that he hadrger ambitions that couldn''t bepromised in the moment. He felt sorry for Tianlinger, but there was little he could do about it now.


    As Tianlinger seemed to lose herposure, Sky Killer began to question his actions. However, before he could dwell on it further, Zhongshan stepped forward and grabbed Tianlinger''s hand. This simple gesture seemed to bring Tianlinger back to her senses, and she began to slowly recover.


    Watching Zhongshan console Tianlinger, Sky Killer felt a sudden pang of irritation. He couldn''t quite ce the feeling, but it seemed as if something that should have been his was slipping away irretrievably.


    "Ling''er," Sky Killer said, his expression filled with concern as he looked at Tianlinger.


    Tianlinger had already beenforted by Zhongshan and was feeling much better. Her tears had stopped flowing, and with a little infusion of true energy, they dried uppletely.


    Through the recent ordeal, Tianlinger seemed to have undergone a profound transformation, as if she had experienced a life-changing event. When she looked at Sky Killer again, her eyes were devoid of the previous excitement and despair. It was as if she had suddenly gained enlightenment and epted everything as it was. Before her stood only her father''s senior disciple, Sky Killer.


    "I''m fine, Senior Brother. Thank you," Tianlinger suddenly shed a brilliant smile.


    "Thank you?" Sky Killer frowned as he looked at Tianlinger, puzzled by her sudden change. In just a moment, it seemed like Tianlinger had be apletely different person.


    On the other hand, Zhongshan let out a long breath, realizing that Tianlinger wasn''t pretending to be strong but had genuinely let go.


    With a smile on his face, Zhongshan gently released Tianlinger''s right hand. However, as soon as Zhongshan let go, Tianlinger felt a sudden tightness in her chest, as if something was being ripped away from her. Without hesitation, she grabbed Zhongshan''s hand, refusing to let go.


    Feeling Tianlinger''s grip, Zhongshan paused momentarily, and Tianlinger also froze. When she realized she was holding Zhongshan''s hand, her face turned red. She quickly let go, feeling self-conscious under the scrutiny of countless eyes around them.


    Sky Killer observed Tianlinger''s actions, noticing her grab Zhongshan''s hand. He raised an eyebrow, surprised to find himself looking at Zhongshan again.


    In that moment, Sky Killer felt a strange sense of defeat at the hands of Zhongshan. How could this be? Shaking his head to clear the strange thoughts from his mind, Sky Killer dismissed the feeling.


    As Zhongshan stepped back after releasing Tianlinger''s hand, nearby, cloaked figure Yinn suddenly reached out and grabbed Zhongshan''s left hand.zhongshan looked at Enn in confusion.


    Suddenly, Enn''s fingers began to write on the palm of his hand, deepening his suspicions. What was going on with Enn? Peering through the brim of her ck hood, he tried to see her face, but all he could discern was an expression of surprise and admiration under the shadow of her hood.


    "Is it deliberate?" Enn wrote these four words on the palm of his hand.

 Chapter 74: Ancient Qianyou

    <h4>Chapter 74: Ancient Qianyou</h4>


    Seeing the perplexity in Yinn''s eyes and feeling the four words in the palm of her hand, Zhongshan shot her a re. This little girl was truly mischievous.


    Under Zhongshan''s re, Yinn immediately stuck out her adorable tongue, her eyes rolling around. Regardless of Zhongshan''s intentions, Yinn had already decided in her heart that Zhongshan was doing it on purpose.


    "Linger, what happened just now? Why did it seem like you were crying over there?" Yun Qian walked over from nearby with a suspicious look on his face, followed by several other disciples from the Kaiyang Sect, all wearing simr expressions.


    "Nothing, Senior Brother Yun Qian, you must have mistaken something." Tian Ling''er smiled immediately, as if nothing had happened just now.


    The scene just now was only known to the few people around here��Bei Qingsi, Tian Sha, Zhongshan, and Yinn naturally wouldn''t speak out at this moment.


    Just as Yun Qian was about to argue, suddenly, both Tian Sha and Bei Qingsi''s gazes froze, and they looked towards the northeast direction on guard together.


    Because, from the northeast direction, three people suddenly flew over.


    Leading them was a woman, followed by two sword-wielding men, seemingly her subordinates. The direction they were facing was the mountain peak where Zhongshan was located. It wasn''t that the three came abruptly, but rather, the way they arrived.


    They flew on the wind, without flying swords, just like that, riding the wind here?


    Without using magical treasures for flight, only those in the Yuanying stage could do this. Only those in the Yuanying stage could soar between heaven and earth without magical treasures. Even in the Golden Core stage, even at the peak of the Golden Core stage, it wasn''t possible.


    Were all three of them in the Yuanying stage?


    "Yuanying stage? What are they doing here? Who are they? Which sect do they belong to? And why are there three of them?" Zhongshan''s group fell silent, each one of them on high alert.


    The three arrived riding the wind and gentlynded in front of everyone.


    The woman at the forefront was very tall, her slender legs d in beautiful leather boots. She wore a gorgeous purple robe that entuated her exquisite figure. Her beautiful face exuded a powerful sense of confidence, no, it was arrogance��a kind of pride filled with nobility.


    The two men behind her stood with swords in hand, resembling two guard puppets. They seemed very taciturn, but no one dared to underestimate them. In the Yuanying stage? To be able to portray such a taciturn image, it could only mean that the woman in front was exceedingly noble.


    "Who are you?" Tian Sha grasped his sword and asked coldly.


    Tian Sha, born with arrogance, even if his cultivation was not as high as others, he was filled with a confident arrogance.


    Everyone looked at the three in front of them. Zhongshan squinted his eyes slightly, a hint of doubt shing in them because Zhongshan had just noticed that the woman at the forefront had nced at him casually earlier. Did she know him?


    The woman stood still, smiling faintly, and with a turn of her hand, she suddenly produced a spoon-shaped colorful token.


    What was this?


    "Kaiyang Sect Elder''s Token? Are you Elder Zixun?" Yun Qian suddenly eximed in surprise.


    Elder Zixun? Zixun? Hearing this name, Zhongshan paused. Elder Zixun? Was she the Zixun Fairy? The one he encountered after the Dragon Gate Assembly, who obtained the Crimson Phoenix Scripture? The Zixun Fairy with whom he had a one-night encounter? No, it couldn''t be her.


    "It''s not the Kaiyang Sect Elder''s Token. Who are you?" Tian Sha frowned suddenly.


    ncing at Tian Sha, the woman revealed a beautiful smile and said, "I am an elder of the Yuheng Sect. My name is Gu Qianyou."


    "The Yuheng Sect?" Tian Sha and Bei Qingsi both furrowed their brows slightly.


    "May I borrow the token for a closer look, Elder?" Tian Sha''s tone was no longer as rigid as before.


    The woman smiled faintly and handed the token to the man behind her. The man immediately took the token and handed it to Tian Sha.


    Tian Sha carefully examined it and then returned the token to the man behind the woman, who then gave it back to her.


    "Greetings, Elder of the Alliance," Tian Sha said respectfully.


    "Greetings, Elder of the Alliance," the others also bowed respectfully to the woman before them.


    Zhongshan remained silent because he had no idea what an Elder of the Alliance was. He could only specte��Alliance? A sect allied with the Kaiyang Sect? Yuheng Sect?


    The Kaiyang Sect was already an upper-level sect, so why would they need to ally with another sect?


    However, from this brief conversation, Zhongshan gleaned some useful information. Although he hadn''t seen the Zixun Fairy again, he could be certain that she was indeed from the Kaiyang Sect and even held a position as an elder.


    "What brings you here, Elder?" Tian Sha asked Gu Qianyou.


    "Are you nning to break through the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation?" Gu Qianyou''s eyes sparkled with wisdom.


    "If you have something to say, please be direct," Tian Sha frowned at Gu Qianyou.


    ncing at Tian Sha, Gu Qianyou smiled faintly and said, "Alright, since the Yuheng Sect and the Kaiyang Sect are allied, let me be straightforward. I see that you havee here early, and you even entered the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation for a while, only to return empty-handed. I presume you are also here for the inheritance of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, right?"


    Bei Qingsi''s brow furrowed slightly, but she remained silent because what she sought was not what Gu Qianyou mentioned, but merely the evidence to clear her father''s name.


    Staring at Gu Qianyou, Tian Sha remained silent for a moment before speaking, "I originally only spected, but since Elder has mentioned it, does this formation indeed have a formation spirit?"


    "I can''t guarantee whether there is a formation spirit or not, but I imagine it does have one internally. You have already broken through the main formation. Just relying on you, can you break through this formation?" Gu Qianyou''s eyes shed with a sinister light as she spoke.


    Tian Sha fell silent! The others also remained silent, as Tian Sha was the leader here.


    "The formation is arranged very intricately. It''s basically impossible to break without enough people. Therefore, I propose an alliance to break through this formation together. As for who obtains the formation spirit within the formation, it will depend on each individual''s luck. What do you think?" Gu Qianyou smiled faintly, her eyes shing with confidence, a strong confidence. It seemed as if she was certain Tian Sha would agree.


    Frowning as he looked at the "elder" before him, Tian Sha fell silent again for a moment, then nced around. Tian Sha squinted his eyes slightly, then finally looked at Gu Qianyou again and said, "And what about the spirit stones within the formation?"


    "Since you''ve agreed, if we encounter spirit stones, we won''t take a single one, but we''ll be in charge and break through the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation together," Gu Qianyou spoke again.


    "Agreed," Tian Sha nodded immediately.


    With Tian Sha''s promise, Gu Qianyou smiled slightly in satisfaction, "Then follow me."


    After saying that, Gu Qianyou led the two people behind her towards a high mountain in the northeast.


    Tian Sha and Bei Qingsi exchanged a nce, signaling for everyone to follow. Zhongshan once again boarded Yun Qian''s flying sword, Tian Ling''er had Hongling, Bei Qingsi carried Yinn, and the eleven of them flew after Gu Qianyou.


    In the distance, within the mountain to the north of the formation, Gulin and Master Shuijing had been watching the direction Princess Qianyou went.


    "Shuijing, didn''t you say that none of these people had reached the Yuanying stage in their cultivation? Then what use do they haveing here?" Gulin furrowed his brows and asked Master Shuijing.


    "Breaking through the formation is different from martial artspetitions. Inside the formation, the roles of these people are not inferior to those in the Yuanying stage; it depends on how they are arranged. Just like the Crown Prince, even though he is in the Golden Core stage, if he were to enter the formation, it wouldn''t be difficult for him to defeat those in the Yuanying stage," Master Shuijing said, shaking his feather fan.


    "Ah," Gulin nodded in satisfaction, as if for the first time he found Master Shuijing''s words so insightful.


    Before long, everyonended on the summit of the mountain.


    Zhongshan dismounted from Yun Qian''s flying sword and, together with Yinn, looked at this group of people��a handsome young man, an elegant man wielding a feather fan, and the rest who seemed like guards.


    These people all exuded a sense of arrogance. Even the guards seemed to look down upon Zhongshan''s group. Although they didn''t openly disdain them, there was no warmth in their demeanor.


    "Master Shuijing, I''ve brought people from the Kaiyang Sect. How to break through the formation will be up to you," Gu Qianyou said to the man with the feather fan.


    The man smiled faintly and walked up to the group. The other handsome young man just nced briefly, only pausing momentarily at Bei Qingsi, Tian Ling''er, and Tian Sha''s faces before ignoring them and turning to Gu Qianyou.


    "Thank you, Princess," Master Shuijing nodded.


    "Princess?" The crowd looked at Gu Qianyou with some confusion.


    "I am Shuijing, and you are all from the Kaiyang Sect. I wonder what your opinions are on breaking through the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation?" Master Shuijing looked over the ten individuals and then suddenly asked.


    "I only know that the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation is a battle formation, difficult to break through. Not long ago, we just broke through this formation, and it''s tooplex," Tian Sha frowned and said.


    Behind Tian Sha, everyone nodded in agreement.


    Bei Qingsi bit her lip and didn''t say much. Although she had some understanding of this formation, she chose to remain silent. Zhongshan also stayed quiet, refraining from interjecting. At this moment, he believed it was more prudent to keep a low profile.


    The disciples from the Kaiyang Sect behind Tian Sha nodded in agreement.


    "Tsk~~~~"


    The young man who had never looked at Zhongshan and the others directly suddenly made a mocking sound, clearly disdainful of this group from the Kaiyang Sect.


    "The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, with its Closing, Injury, Duress, and Terror Gates, is a battlefield formation. It contains the transformations of the Jia, San Qi, and Liu Yi, the changes of the ten heavenly stems. When the formation opens, life and death alternate, soldiers change without exhaustion. To break the formation, there should be an elite team entering through the Closing Gate, disrupting the formation and exiting through the Duress Gate. Meanwhile, the main force should take advantage of this chaos to charge through the Injury Gate and directly attack the core," he exined.


    Perhaps it was Yinn''s straightforward nature, or perhaps it was her experience leading troops for many years that made her blood boil. After seeing the disdainful nces cast their way, Yinn didn''t hesitate to speak up.


    As Yinn spoke, Zhongshan looked at her, a hint of satisfaction shing in his eyes. He was pleased with Yinn''s achievement because when it came to the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, Yinn had more expertise than himself and her understanding was more thorough. What Yinn spoke of was the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation she had previously arranged��a formation built with people rather than the fantastical sandstorm formation before them. Nheless, Zhongshan still felt proud.

 Chapter 75: Static Formation and Battle Formation

    <h4>Chapter 75: Static Formation and Battle Formation</h4>


    What Yinn described was a simplified version of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formationmonly used in the mortal realm, but Princess Qianyou and Master Shuijing still brightened up.


    The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation was far moreplex than what Yinn described, but what she spoke of constituted the framework of the formation, akin to the outline of a manual.


    Although understanding these basics wasn''t difficult, any general well-versed in military formations could grasp some of it, but not everyone could. The most direct evidence was the eleven individuals present, among whom only this woman in ck robes could articte it.


    Tian Sha looked slightly puzzled, while the young man, Gulin, furrowed his brows.


    Princess Qianyou''s eyes sparkled with interest because what Yinn described coincided perfectly with what Master Shuijing had mentioned. Although Master Shuijing described it in its primitive state, even in this most basic form, a formation presided over by only one person wasn''t something everyone knew how to break.


    Master Shuijing nodded, his eyes showing satisfaction, for if it came from this group of people, it would be more convincing.


    "Everyone, when the timees, follow me into the Closing Gate, help me draw out the practitioners from all directions through the Duress Gate, and then we''ll charge towards the Core Gate within the formation," Master Shuijing said, shaking his feather fan with a smile.


    Upon hearing Master Shuijing''s n, Zhongshan''s pupils contracted, not because he agreed with Yinn, but because of his tone��guiding practitioners from all directions? Could practitioners from all directions really move as if they were puppets under his guidance?


    To arrange it all by oneself and manipte those breaking through the formation as if they were in the palm of one''s hand?


    Zhongshan didn''t show much, but his mind was filled with astonishment. Was this person truly so skilled?


    "Then who will break through the Injury Gate?" Tian Sha furrowed his brow.


    ording to this n for breaking through the formation, the first ones to benefit would be those who break through the Injury Gate, as they would be the first to reach the Core Gate within the formation.


    Looking at Tian Sha, Master Shuijing smiled and said, "These three are not at the Golden Core stage yet, so it''s safer for them to go through the Injury Gate. Additionally, among you, one more person can join the Princess in breaking through the formation. Only a small portion of us will go through the Injury Gate."


    Master Shuijing designated Tian Ling''er, Zhongshan, and Yinn to break through the Injury Gate.


    Tian Sha frowned as he looked at the schr before him. In fact, his previous position was right in front of the Closing Gate. It was just that he was now called to the Injury Gate. If it weren''t for Master Shuijing''s coordination, he would also be breaking through the Closing Gate.


    The Injury Gate would definitely have some advantages, and giving this opportunity to the Kaiyang Sect was already quite generous.


    "Big Brother, I''ll go through the Injury Gate," Bei Qingsi suddenly spoke up.


    Bei Qingsi knew that the person she was looking for was at the Core Gate. In order to obtain that evidence, she had to be the first one to arrive.


    Tian Sha was surprised by Bei Qingsi''s request. For the first time, Bei Qingsi made a request to him?


    "Alright, then Qingsi, you''ll go through the Injury Gate. I''ll go with the junior brothers through the Closing Gate," Tian Sha immediately agreed.


    "Then let''s take a short rest. I''ve already sent someone to spread the information. Three dayster, on the night of the full moon, when the moon is high in the sky, we will all break through the formation simultaneously," Master Shuijing said.


    "Alright," Tian Sha didn''t say anything but led everyone to a corner, separating from Princess Qianyou and her group to rest.


    Tian Sha understood that although Princess Qianyou was an elder of the alliance, he still needed to be cautious about safety. Moreover, he had no personal connection with this group, so he needed to be extremely careful when entering the formation.


    After the alliance was formed, Master Shuijing returned to his own group. There would be no more interaction, perhaps after this alliance, they might not even meet again.


    "What is a battle formation?" Zhongshan asked Bei Qingsi on the side.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s question, Tian Sha and the others ignored it, feeling that Zhongshan''s question was too shallow and not worth paying attention to. However, Tian Ling''er and Yinn both looked at Bei Qingsi seriously.


    Seeing the person in the ck robe staring at her, Bei Qingsi felt a bit strange. Didn''t she just know about the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation? Could it be that she was talking nonsense just now? But that didn''t seem like her.


    Nevertheless, Bei Qingsi patiently exined, "In the realm of formation techniques, there are two types: static formations and battle formations. Static formations, like the Kaiyang Sect''s Mountain Guardian Formation or the g formations recently used by Hao San for self-protection, remain still. They are formed by special items and unique terrain and can only defend a fixed area. On the other hand, battle formations areposed of people. Although they also require some special items, the focus is on the people. The most important aspect of this type of formation is that it can move. It''s a formation that can amodaterge armies for offensive maneuvers."


    Upon hearing Bei Qingsi''s exnation, Yinn''s eyes lit up. She was evidently very interested in the topic.


    "There are many static formations, but battle formations are extremely rare because each battle formation is unique. Controlling a battle formation is extremely difficult. If it''s not set up by the creator of the formation, there will be slight variations, and even these slight differences can lead to vastly different levels of power. The effectiveness of a battle formation depends mainly on the level of mastery over it. Naturally, the creator of the formation can set it up the best. However, apart from the creator, there are those who possess the formation''s soul," Bei Qingsi exined.


    "The formation''s soul? What is that?" Zhongshan asked with a furrowed brow.


    "Creating a battle formation is extremely difficult. It''s rare for a battle formation to be born once in a millennium. Those who create such formations are naturally geniuses. Therefore, battle formations are extremely rare. Another reason for their rarity is that the creators can merge with the formation, imprinting all the subtle changes of the formation into their souls. Only by controlling the formation with their soul can they unleash its maximum power. But how many people can be immortal? Eventually, the creators of formations will exhaust their lifespan. After their death, their disciples will collect their depleted souls and transform them into several parts of the formation''s soul, which contain all the changes of the formation. Rather than calling it a formation''s soul, it''s more like a human soul divided into several parts, which are no longer the same as before, just some special energy. Once obtaining a formation''s soul and merging with it, one can slowly absorb all the internal changes of the formation. In no time, they can fully master the formation. Therefore, a formation''s soul is extremely rare, especially for higher-level formations. It''s a treasure that disappearspletely from the world once used," Bei Qingsi exined.


    "Can the soul of someone who has obtained a part of the formation''s soul be divided again after their death?" Zhongshan furrowed his brow and asked.


    "Only the creator of the formation can do that. The formation''s soul is a unique entity. Once it merges with someone, it can only be recorded in that person''s soul and cannot be imprinted like the creator''s soul. Once it is consumed, it is gone forever," Bei Qingsi exined, shaking her head.


    "Understood," Zhongshan nodded.


    Meanwhile, on the other side:


    "Qianyou, you''ll take the Injured Gate, Shuijing will lead people through the Birth Gate, so what about me?" Gu Lin looked expectantly at Princess Qianyou.


    "You?" Qianyou frowned as she looked at Gu Lin.


    "You''lle with me through the Injured Gate," Qianyou said again.


    "Alright," Gu Lin agreed eagerly, clearly pleased to be apanying Princess Qianyou.


    Standing nearby, Master Shuijing shook his feather fan with a wry smile. He cast a grateful nce at Princess Qianyou, understanding that her decision to bring Gu Lin along wasn''t for hispany but to prevent him from disrupting Master Shuijing''s ns.


    In the distance, atop a mountain peak:


    Chu Jiu observed Zhongshan and the others, then looked over at Master Shuijing''s group. He turned to the young man with a sword on his back and said, "Young Master, these people are not ordinary."


    "Oh? Chu Jiu, what have you discerned?" The young man frowned.


    "That group is likely from the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty," Chu Jiu nodded.


    "Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty?" The young man furrowed his brow.


    "It''s not advisable to take risks at the moment. We should wait for a better opportunity," Chu Jiu suggested after some thought.


    "Agreed," the young man nodded.


    At the same time, powerful forces from all four directions of the grand formation��east, south, west, and north��noticed something peculiar etched into the mountain walls around them.


    "The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, imprable through direct assault. Three days hence, on the night of the full moon, when the bright moon hangs high and its light shrouds thend, the formation will experience a moment of weakening. At that time, strike at the Eight Gates in unison."


    Those who stumbled upon these inscriptions felt a stir of excitement and anxiety. As they read, their minds buzzed with both surprise and the calction of their own benefits.


    "Is there someone orchestrating an assault on the formation?"


    There was no doubt about the strength of this grand formation. Many forces had attempted to breach it in recent days, all to no avail, and many had suffered losses. The fact that this formidable formation was set up by just one person spoke volumes about its high level. Obtaining the formation''s core spirit would be worth far more than countless spirit stones.


    Gradually, the people from the four directions settled into a state of quiet anticipation, waiting for the full moon night to arrive.


    During this period, Zhong Shan, Ying Lan, and Tian Ling''er remained silent, speaking little in public.


    It wasn''t until dusk on the third day that Zhong Shan saw someone, a person whose appearance filled him with joy��a person he had been searching for these past few days.


    It was none other than Mr. Corpse, the one who had recently orchestrated the assassination of Immortal Yin. Mr. Corpse was standing on his flying sword, surrounded by eight others flying on wind steeds��those same individuals who hade to escort Mr. Corpse thest time.


    The arrival of eight experts at the Nascent Soul stage or higher instantly captured everyone''s attention. Each sessive arrival had been stronger than thest, and now, seeing so many Nascent Soul stage powerhouses together was truly astonishing.


    The nine figures ignored the curious and wary gazes of the crowd. They flew directly towards the southeast section of the grand formation, opposite the ''Death Gate,'' andnded on the peak of a mountain.


    Zhong Shan had been searching for this group because the information he had overheardst time suggested that they were not here for the formation spirit, but for the Nine Dragons Heavenly Jade.


    Nine Dragons Heavenly Jade? They knew about the Nine Dragons Heavenly Jade as well? That day, Zhong Shan had heard Mr. Corpse addressing one of them as ''Your Majesty.'' Could it be that this person was also establishing a kingdom?

 Chapter 76: Breaking the Formation

    <h4>Chapter 76: Breaking the Formation</h4>


    Given Zhong Shan''s current circumstances, finding the Nine Dragons Heavenly Jade on his own was a near-impossible dream. However, with this group''s involvement, there might be a chance. He just needed to follow them, and perhaps he could find it too.


    But it wasn''t dark yet, and his hidden form couldn''t follow them just now. He would have to wait.


    Tonight was the agreed time for the joint assault. Once the full moon appeared, the attack would undoubtedlymence. In front of each of the eight gates��Rest, Life, Injury, Obstruction, View, Death, Shock, and Open��stood various forces. Mr. Water Mirror had already left with his subordinates and the Tian Sha group.


    On the mountain where Zhong Shan was located, there were Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er, Ying Lan, Bei Qingsi, Princess Qianyou, Gu Lin, and ten of Princess Qianyou''s subordinates.


    Of course, around the Injury Gate, there were also other forces, but they did not catch Princess Qianyou''s eye.


    Princess Qianyou stared at the Injury Gate, then looked at Zhong Shan and said, "Entering the formation is dangerous. You can stay here if you prefer."


    This was a subconscious warning from Princess Qianyou. Thest time they had surrounded Hao San, Zhong Shan had risked his life to save Tian Ling''er, which had greatly impressed Princess Qianyou. Over the past few days, she had also discovered that the ck-robed woman who understood the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation was Zhong Shan''s grandaunt, which surprised her even more.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhong Shan knew there was still a vast difference between them. Her casual offer was just out of politeness.


    "Thank you for your concern, Princess. We will still follow you into the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation," Zhong Shan replied softly.


    On one hand, Zhong Shan wanted to see the inside of the formation; on the other hand, staying outside wasn''t necessarily safe either. Inside the formation, with Princess Qianyou''s presence, he at least had Bei Qingsi by his side. Though his rtionship with Bei Qingsi was ordinary, Zhong Shan was certain that if the three of them were in danger, Bei Qingsi would not stand by and watch them die.


    "Ha, with your cultivation level, you dare to think about the formation spirit?" Gu Lin sneered from the side.


    Zhong Shan was not angered by this. Instead, Gu Lin''s words provided him with a convenient excuse.


    "Indeed, as the Princess mentioned earlier, finding the formation spirit relies on one''s luck," Zhong Shan responded smoothly.


    Gu Lin let out a coldugh.


    With her sharp intellect, Princess Qianyou quickly understood Zhong Shan''s true intentions. Naturally, she didn''t believe he was after the formation spirit. She nodded slightly in acknowledgment.


    "Ada, take these three with you," Princess Qianyou instructed one of her followers, evidently aware that Zhong Shan could not fly and needed assistance.


    "Yes," the swordsman who always apanied Princess Qianyou immediately replied.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan said in a serious tone.


    Princess Qianyou merely nodded, saying no more as she turned her attention back to the Injury Gate in front of them.


    In the distance, before the Death Gate, Mr. Corpse stood, frowning slightly as he examined the grand formation.


    "Mr. Corpse, why choose the Death Gate?" one of the people beside him asked.


    "Death leads to life, and life leads to death. If His Majesty were after the formation spirit, we wouldn''t go through the Death Gate. However, to find the Nine Dragons Heavenly Jade, we must enter through the Death Gate. Only within the Death Gate lies a slim chance of survival. Through this slim chance, we can trace the exact location of the Nine Dragons Heavenly Jade," Mr. Corpse exined, lightly stroking the small beard on his chin.


    "Then we won''t pursue the formation spirit?" the person asked again.


    "Listen to Mr. Corpse,"manded another person with a more authoritative tone.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," the respectful subordinate responded.


    Mr. Corpse nced at this person, his eyes shing with confidence. Though his cultivation level was not as high as theirs, his knowledge extended far beyond their reach.


    As night fell, the sun set, and a full moon began to rise in the east. In front of the Injury Gate, Mr. Water Mirror continuously calcted the timing, fingers moving in intricate patterns. Behind him stood over a dozen subordinates, including Tian Sha and others.


    Mid-calction, Mr. Water Mirror''s eyes narrowed, and he ceased his movements, focusing intently on the grand formation before him. He gently shook his feather fan, about to issue amand when��


    "Chirrrrrrrrrrrrrrrp!"


    A piercing, melodious sound suddenly echoed from the sky, as if breaking through clouds and mist.


    The sound was so pleasant that it made everyone feel an unexpected sense offort and rity. At this sound, nearly everyone paused in their actions.


    Whether it was Mr. Corpse''s group, Mr. Water Mirror''s group, Princess Qianyou''s group, or the various forces from all directions, almost everyone furrowed their brows and looked up at the sky.


    Zhong Shan also looked up, and there, soaring high above, even higher than the Sandstorm Formation, was arge bird. It circled in the distant sky for a moment.


    A Qingluan? Could it be a Qingluan?��the legendary blue bird��Though Zhong Shan had never seen a Qingluan before, he recognized it instantly. After all, he had seen depictions of the mythical bird on earthly totems��wasn''t it one of the legendary phoenixes?


    Zhong Shan even noticed what appeared to be a figure on the Qingluan''s back, though it was too far away to discern clearly.


    After circling above the grand formation for a while, the Qingluan suddenly turned its head and flew off towards the northwest. It seemed as if it had merely passed by out of curiosity and lingered for a moment. In the blink of an eye, it disappeared from sight, piercing through the clouds and mist.


    "The Qingluan flew towards the northwest," Tian Ling''er remarked curiously. "Isn''t that the direction of our Kaiyang Sect? Could it be heading there?"


    "Wait, you know the direction of the Kaiyang Sect?" Zhong Shan looked at Tian Ling''er in surprise.


    "Of course, I never get directions wrong," Tian Ling''er said confidently.


    Princess Qianyou furrowed her brows as she watched the sky, a hint of puzzlement crossing her eyes. But she quickly turned her attention back to the grand formation and spoke, "It''s almost time. Let''s prepare to depart."


    "Yes," everyone responded.


    "Let''s go!" Mr. Water Mirror waved his feather fan towards the grand formation in the distance, and everyone followed suit. Some flew on the wind, some rode on treasures, heading towards the formation. Meanwhile, some cultivators at the innate realm ran towards the formation on foot.


    The departure of Mr. Water Mirror and his group seemed to trigger a chain reaction. From all directions, people near the gates didn''t want to be left behind, and they hurried towards the grand formation.


    Zhong Shan stood behind Princess Qianyou, patiently waiting. Instead of leading the charge, Princess Qianyou waited patiently, observing as many individuals breached the Injury Gate. Despite many having already entered, Princess Qianyou lingered, as if waiting for a specific moment or opportunity.


    As Zhong Shan''s figure subtly retreated, a shadow suddenly appeared at the foot of the mountain where Zhong Shan stood. In the darkness, the shadow was barely visible.


    It was Hidden Body. Hidden Body had already headed towards the Death Gate, in the direction where Mr. Corpse was located.


    Hidden Body''s speed was terrifying, like an arrow, disappearing from sight in an instant. Even when faced with tall mountains, Hidden Body could pass through them as long as there was a gap in the earth, just like Mr. Corpse''s Earth-Transcending Gold Corpse and Silver Corpse technique.


    Meanwhile, Mr. Corpse and his group didn''t rush to enter the formation. Instead, they waited patiently.


    It didn''t take long for Hidden Body to arrive nearby, lurking in the distance, patiently waiting to join forces with this group in their search for the Nine Dragons Heavenly Jade.


    As the army entered the sandstorm-like grand formation, the entire formation seemed to suddenly erupt into a frenzy. Sandstorms burst forth from within, expanding the grand formation as if to engulf everything in its path. The assault had begun.


    In the blink of an eye, most of the people outside the formation had already left, leaving only a few forces able to withstand the temptation to enter and still observing from a distance.


    Zhong Shan stood behind Princess Qianyou, waiting patiently.


    "Let''s go, into the formation," Princess Qianyou suddenly spoke up.


    "Yes," everyone responded simultaneously.


    Then, with a step from Princess Qianyou, she rose on the wind, while the person previously referred to as Ada conjured a white cloud, lifting Zhong Shan, Ying Lan, and Tian Ling''er.


    Flying on the wind was another person, the one who had always guarded Princess Qianyou. This person carried Gu Lin on a white cloud, flying towards the grand formation and slowly descending towards the ground. The rest of the group rode on flying swords.


    Instead of flying into the formation, Princess Qianyou walked to the edge of the sandstorm-like grand formation with her entourage and stepped into it step by step.


    As they approached, they felt a massive gust of wind and sand sweeping towards them. The group released their true energy, forming protective barriers that shielded them from harm. Even Zhong Shan, who formed ayer of Qi around his body, could block the fierce winds and sands.


    The raging winds and sands posed little threat. Though Ying Lan couldn''t release her true energy, her ck robe provided ample protection.


    Zhong Shan gently held Ying Lan''s hand with one hand and Tian Ling''er''s with the other, following Princess Qianyou closely. Holding their hands ensured they wouldn''t get separated in the low visibility within the storm of sand and wind.


    However, when Zhong Shan grabbed Tian Ling''er''s hand again, she trembled slightly, her face blushing faintly. She didn''t resist, allowing Zhong Shan to lead her inside. Ying Lan, hidden beneath her ck robe, showed no expression.


    Bei Qingsi frowned at Zhong Shan''s actions but stayed close to his side, seemingly protecting him from any danger.

 Chapter 77: Every Plant and Tree is a Soldier

    <h4>Chapter 77: Every nt and Tree is a Soldier</h4>


    After walking about a hundred steps in the sandstorm environment, suddenly, the sandstorm dissipated. No, it seemed to be restrained outside, unable to enter.


    There stood a door, towering over three hundred meters tall. Beyond the door was the sandstorm, while around the door, the storm still raged, as if the door had appeared out of thin air, like a portal to another world.


    Inside the door, ayer of white mist obscured the view, making it impossible to see whaty beyond. At the top of the door, there was a jade que inscribed with arge character: "Injury." The character flickered strangely, appearing and disappearing.


    The Injury Gate!


    Among the Eight Gates, the Injury Gate was a sinister one.


    Some people had already entered before, and Princess Qianyou showed no signs of fear as she led the group towards the inside.


    As the group moved forward, Zhong Shan, with the two girls in tow, stepped through the gate.


    Suddenly, the surroundings changed dramatically. The previous sandstorm environment transformed into a vast grasnd. The sky was high, the ground was red, covered in blood. The once empty grasnd was now filled with countless troops, brandishing their swords and charging towards the group.


    Countless powerful soldiers, their faces filled with bloodlust. Many were covered in wounds, yet these wounded soldiers were the most ferocious and reckless.


    Seeing this scene, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, his gaze bing sharp.


    Hmph.


    It was just an illusion. Zhong Shan''s will was unyielding. After enduring for so many years, his sharp edges had long been worn down. His heart was like a rock, impervious to the influence of such petty illusions.


    In the blink of an eye, Zhong Shan stepped out of the battlefield environment, and the soldiers suddenly retreated. The grasnd also receded in all directions, as if Zhong Shan had suddenly stepped into an empty void with nothing around. But Zhong Shan had a feeling that everything around him was spinning.


    Indeed, everything was spinning. Before long, the sky and earth rotated back, turning into a vast white space. Around him, the battlefield scene transformed into scenes of naked men and women in distress, and the chaotic sounds seemed to disturb Zhong Shan''s thoughts. But would Zhong Shan be ensnared so easily? With a steely gaze, he observed the illusions once more. The snake pit couldn''t affect him either, transforming into a scene of endless demons devouring flesh...


    Eight times in total, Zhong Shan remained resolute. Could such illusions shake his firm heart?


    In a daze, all the illusions faded away, and Zhong Shan returned to reality once more.


    His group of sixteen stood in a vast open space. In the distance, there were the hundred people who had entered before. Some seemed confused, making indecent gestures, while others trembled in fear, and some even engaged in mutual ughter. Further away, there was another sh of the gate, but this time, there was no que hanging above it.


    Zhong Shan noticed that as soon as someone regained consciousness, they immediately entered. This indicated that Zhong Shan was qualified to enter the second gate.


    At this moment, Ying Lan also regained consciousness, while Tian Ling''er and Bei Qingsi seemed to wake up even earlier than herself.


    "What''s wrong with them, Zhong Shan? And why were you just standing there when you came in?" Tian Ling''er whispered to Zhong Shan.


    Upon hearing Tian Ling''er''s words, Zhongshan was taken aback. Could it be that Tian Ling''er hadn''t experienced the illusion just now? Impossible.


    "Master, I never thought that my former Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, used to confuse enemies, would manifest as an illusion in this perfect grand formation. It''s incredible," Ying Lan eximed.


    Beiqingsi remained silent, only furrowing her brows as she gazed around, her thoughts inscrutable.


    Princess Qianyou had already awakened long ago. The moment she entered the grand formation, like Zhongshan, she quickly regained her senses and stayed true to her heart. However, she didn''t awaken the others immediately. Instead, she looked at her ten subordinates.


    This was a "Heart Formation," a bewildering array that confounded the mind. Those whose minds were not steadfast would quickly lose their true selves. Either they''d be killed by theirpanions or they''d kill theirpanions. Truly a formidable formation for defeating enemies.


    Her most trusted subordinates, Ada and A''er, did not disappoint her. Their cold faces remained unchanged as they quickly awoke.


    Beside them, Gulin was trembling and curled up. Seeing Gulin''s condition, Princess Qianyou felt a wave of disdain.


    Of the remaining eight subordinates, five had already awakened at this moment. However, the remaining three all revealed ugly sides: some began to disrobe, some raised their swords to stab theirpanions, and some trembled like Gulin.


    This was a test of the strength of their wills. Princess Qianyou was surprised to find that, on the other side, all four of Zhongshan''s group were awake. Their wills were even stronger than those in the Golden Core stage?


    The white-haired woman could be excused, being in theter stages of the Golden Core realm, but what about these three? Tian Ling''er might be straightforward and desireless, hence her quick recovery. But what about the other two? Zhongshan? The ck-robed individual?


    The ck-robed individual wasn''t even at the Pre-Natal stage, a true ant-like figure. How could they awaken so quickly? Princess Qianyou was unaware that although Ying Lan''s willpower wasn''t as exaggerated as Zhongshan''s, twelve years of leading troops into battle, facing life and death struggles day after day, had long solidified Ying Lan''s fierce heart. How could she be swayed by this illusion?


    Furrowing her brows and looking at the three subordinates and Gulin, Princess Qianyou felt a surge of frustration.


    "Hmph~~~~~~"


    Princess Qianyou snorted coldly, her voice seeming to carry a strange power as it instantly prated the ears of the four individuals bewitched by the Heart Formation.


    The four jolted as if struck by lightning, their entire bodies trembling.


    In a daze, all four, filled with fear, snapped out of the illusion.


    "Qianyou, what just happened? What was that just now?" Gulin was drenched in sweat, looking at Qianyou with fear evident on his face. Clearly, Gulin had been quite frightened by the illusion.


    "A''da," Qianyou called softly.


    "Yes," A''da immediately replied, bowing.


    With a flick of her hand, she gathered arge number of stones from the ground and swiftly hurled them towards the people still trapped in the illusion in the distance. The force was just right, each stone hitting precisely on the temples of those bewildered individuals.


    Suddenly, over a hundred people snapped out of it, each filled with lingering fear. Looking around, they had no idea who had awakened them. Seeing another tall gate opposite, they quickly swarmed towards it.


    ncing interestedly at Zhongshan''s group again, Princess Qianyou''s face revealed a faint smile.


    "Let''s go," Princess Qianyoumanded once more.


    The group followed Princess Qianyou towards the second gate.


    As they reached the gate, Princess Qianyou suddenly stopped, pondered for a moment, and looked at her subordinates.


    "Just now was the Heart Formation, which caused mental injury. Next, ording to Master Shuijing''s words, we will face the Ren Formation, which causes both mental and physical injuries, a state of mutual harm. Don''t embarrass yourselves again."


    "Yes," the three subordinates who had been lost just now immediately said ashamedly.


    As for Gulin, he remained silent, as if he hadn''t been lost just now.


    "Let''s go," Princess Qianyou spoke up.


    With that, they stepped into the second gate. Upon entering the second gate, it was once again like the vast grasnd before. They found themselves in a grassy expanse, with the gate they had entered behind them, but there was no third gate ahead.


    There was no sun in the sky, only a giant eye, spherical in shape, emitting a plethora of radiance, as if scrutinizing everything below.


    "Is that the Formation Eye?" Gulin eximed in surprise as he looked at the eerie eye in the sky.


    "The Formation Eye, also known as the Dragon Eye we seek. Within this Ren Formation, we search for the path to the Dragon Eye," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    "Then we should fly up there," Gulin immediately suggested.


    "This isn''t the outside world. Flying? No matter how high you fly, the Dragon Eye will rise ordingly. This is a formation that''s like reality yet not quite. To reach the Dragon Eye, we must find an invisible door," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "An invisible door? Where is it?" Gulin frowned immediately.


    "It should be soon. It shouldn''t take long for Master Shuijing to seed on his end. When the timees, the invisible door will naturally appear. Just hold on for a while," Princess Qianyou spoke.


    "In that case, let''s retreat for now. Let A''da stay here to guard. If the invisible door appears, he can notify us toe in," Gulin suggested immediately, seeming pleased with himself for thinking of a solution others hadn''t.


    "Retreat? This gate only allows entry, not exit," Princess Qianyou said solemnly.


    "We can''t retreat?" Gulin was astonished.


    "By retreating from this gate, we''ll no longer be in the Injury Gate area, but in one of the other seven gates of the Eight Gates. It''s absolutely impossible to return to the Injury Gate Ren Formation area," Princess Qianyou said solemnly.


    "Huh?" Gulin looked incredulous.


    Meanwhile, Zhongshan gazed out at the grasnd in all directions.


    Though the grasnd wasn''t blood-red, the level of danger and strangeness was no less than before, even greater. Previously, they were only in the realm of Minor Danger, but now, they had entered the realm of Major Danger.


    Zhongshan observed that about two hundred cultivators who had entered ahead were currently engaged in battle with armies in all directions.


    Armies? Where did these armiese from? Wasn''t this grand formation supposed to be controlled by only one person?


    Just as Zhongshan was pondering, he suddenly saw, not far from their group, a circle of small grasses. Suddenly, they grew taller and then transformed into humanoid forms, each wielding swords and rushing towards their group to attack? Grass turning into an army? All vegetation bing soldiers?

 Chapter 78: Good Fortune

    <h4>Chapter 78: Good Fortune</h4>


    Vegetation soldiers?


    Princess Qianyou watched as the vegetation soldiers slowly closed in from all directions and spoke, "These are Illusionary Soldiers, growing stronger when faced with strength. It''s a battle of equals. Remember, stay true to yourselves."


    "Yes," the subordinates immediately responded.


    It was only then that Zhongshan noticed something peculiar: these soldiers, they didn''t have faces? Or rather, Zhongshan couldn''t see their faces at all? They had no faces?


    There were already over a hundred of them surrounding them.


    Princess Qianyou, Gulin, A''da, and A''er stood in the center, while the remaining eight subordinates quickly raised their swords and charged towards the surrounding vegetation soldiers. Beiqingsi also wielded her sword to fend off the vegetation soldiers in front of Zhongshan. Obviously, not resisting was not an option.


    "ngng"


    Sounds of swords shing echoed from all directions, and surprisingly, the strength of these vegetation soldiers was on par with the resisting individuals.


    No, Zhongshan suddenly noticed a strange phenomenon: all the weapons of the vegetation soldiers inbat suddenly became identical to those of their opponents.


    Identical?


    In front of Beiqingsi, the three vegetation soldiers, whose original weapons wererge swords, suddenly transformed into white swords identical to Beiqingsi''s. The same was true for the other vegetation soldiers, each wielding weapons identical to their opponents'', even in battles where there were multiple opponents against one.


    Zhongshan saw that, except for Beiqingsi, the faces of the other eight people all showed incredulous expressions. Although they hadn''t been defeated by their opponents, their expressions were as if they had seen a ghost.


    "Crack"


    One vegetation soldier was cut in half by Beiqingsi, suddenly transforming into two broken pieces of grass. But more vegetation soldiers swarmed over.


    Suddenly, one vegetation soldier, in an unnoticed moment, bypassed Beiqingsi''s defense and appeared in front of Zhongshan.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan immediately released the hands of the two women and prepared to intervene with his sword. The two women also swiftly drew out their weapons. However, as the vegetation soldier approached, Zhongshan suddenly felt a chill in his heart.


    The vegetation soldier now had a face. Previously faceless, it suddenly sprouted facial features. Facial features? And they were exactly like his own. Seeing the vegetation soldier was like looking into a mirror, seeing someone identical to himself?


    At the same time, the vegetation soldier with his own likeness suddenly wielded arge sword resembling a "Nightmare" and swung it wildly at Zhongshan. The power of that strike seemed identical to Zhongshan''s weakest moment?


    The Fourth Stage of Innate Realm?


    The two women also seemed to witness something incredible. They were about to move forward with their weapons, but Zhongshan acted first.


    The Fourth Stage of Innate Realm? Vegetation soldiers? Are these soldiers a reflection of the opponent''s strength? If I''m at the Fourth Stage of Innate Realm, are the vegetation soldiers also at the Fourth Stage of Innate Realm?


    "Crack"


    As Zhongshan''s sword passed, the vegetation soldier was suddenly cut into two pieces,pletely severed.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan suddenly understood the meaning of a mutual harming situation. A reflection of oneself fighting against oneself? One vegetation soldier was manageable, but what about ten, or a hundred?


    As more and more vegetation soldiers appeared, Zhongshan felt both horror and delight. So, he could protect himself too? Princess Qianyou and the others refrained from acting because they couldn''t intervene directly. If Princess Qianyou acted, the strength of the vegetation soldiers would skyrocket. While they wouldn''t necessarily lose, it would be pointless.


    "Don''t intervene," Zhongshan immediately said to Ying Lan and Tian Ling''er.


    "Okay," the two nodded immediately. Although they didn''t understand why Zhongshan said so, they seemed to have absolute confidence in him. Zhongshan said it, so they would follow itpletely. Besides, hadn''t Zhongshan just dealt with one vegetation soldier?


    Zhongshan''s actions just now caught Princess Qianyou''s attention.


    Mr. Shuijing had thoroughly exined the vegetation soldiers here to her. She naturally wouldn''t intervene at this moment, but instead took the opportunity to observe how her subordinates would handle themselves facing their own reflections.


    The situation was as expected. Except for the three who had lost their focus earlier, everyone else quickly defended against their own reflections. Those three individuals seemed to have narrowly escaped death. Princess Qianyou also used this opportunity to assess the strength and resilience of her subordinates.


    At the same time, Princess Qianyou noticed Beiqingsi on the other side. Beiqingsi seemed capable of holding off ten opponents, facing them calmly without faltering, just as formidable as her own subordinates. Could Kaiyang Sect really have such a remarkable individual?


    However, it was when Zhongshan intervened that Princess Qianyou truly marveled. This individual at the Innate Realm, his calm demeanor in facing the vegetation soldiers was even more astonishing than Beiqingsi''s.


    One strike, one kill. Dealing with each reflection effortlessly, as easy as slicing vegetables.


    How was this possible? It was the first time Princess Qianyou had witnessed something so astonishing. At the same time, when she looked at Zhongshan, a strange smile shed in her eyes. Such talent, how could she not want to utilize it?


    As Zhongshan effortlessly cut down the vegetation soldiers, Ying Lan and Tian Ling''er couldn''t help but admire him. Meanwhile, Beiqingsi, while fending off the vegetation soldiers, also revealed a subtle smile as she sensed Zhongshan''s prowess.


    The other eight individuals engaged in battle also couldn''t help but be amazed by Zhongshan''s fighting. Their reflections, capable of using sword energy just like them, their swords had even transformed into sword qi. But Zhongshan''s reflections were equally matched, which left them feeling frustrated. Wasn''t he just at the Innate Realm? How was this possible? And why couldn''t their reflections even release sword energy? Why was Zhongshan so lucky, facing only weak vegetation soldiers, while they were stuck dealing with formidable ones of their own level?


    Gu watched as Zhongshan effortlessly dispatched the vegetation soldiers, his eyes widening in disbelief. His thoughts mirrored those of the others engaged in battle: Could this person be so lucky? Over there, battles were raging with sword energy flying and powerful strikes, but here, Zhongshan couldn''t even release a hint of sword energy. It seemed like he was just here to die. How could this be? Was this kid pretending all along? Wasn''t he at the Innate Realm?


    "Crack"


    With a casual strike, Zhongshan once again killed a vegetation soldier.


    Zhongshan was bing increasingly intrigued by the grand formation. Illusion? No, this was definitely not an illusion, but it felt like one. The strength of the vegetation soldiers depended on their opponents? It was truly bizarre.


    The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, was this what it truly was? And it was being controlled by just one person? If it had arge number of soldiers as its foundation, how powerful would it be? If he could obtain control of this formation, it would be fantastic!


    As Zhongshan pondered, he continued to y the vegetation soldiers.


    Within the Ren Formation, Zhongshan had already ensured the safety of himself and the two women.


    Meanwhile, in another location, at the Dead Gate of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, Mr. Shi and his group also began to enter the formation. Zhongshan stealthily followed from afar.


    Nine individuals, led by Mr. Shi, along with eight others at or above the Yuanying Realm, formed an undoubtedly formidable lineup.


    As they entered the Dead Gate, they were first faced with a Mental Formation, a realm filled with illusions. However, this group of nine individuals seemed incredibly resolute, without any hesitation, they directly entered the second gate.


    Zhongshan, hidden, followed closely behind.Entering it, Zhongshan also saw a gigantic dragon eye hanging in the sky. Within this environment, instead of verdant trees, there were zombies of all kinds walking around in this peculiar world, as if the world had been overrun by zombies. They bit at the sight of people, swarming to attack anyone who entered, the scene incredibly terrifying. Inside, there were already the corpses of a hundred cultivators strewn about, a gruesome sight to behold, not only bitten to death but even dismembered.


    Truly, it was the Gate of Death, the most frequented gate of all.


    Mr. Shi walked to a spot, and with a flick of his hand, twenty-three coffins suddenly appeared. He sealed them with a talisman, took out nails, opened the coffin lids, and the bronze corpses leaped out one after another. Swiftly, they formed a circle facing outward, confronting the numerous zombies outside.


    Zombies against zombies?


    The group was surrounded in the center, the bronze corpses with their steel-like bodies stood firm, unafraid of the other zombies'' attacks, which made the surrounding zombies hesitant to approach.


    Hidden within the shadow of a zombie, Zhongshan carefully observed the group in the center.


    "Protect me," Mr. Shi spoke up.


    "Rest assured, sir," the emperor among them immediately responded.


    Nodding slightly, Mr. Shi once again retrieved the eerie heart. Grasping it in his right hand, he muttered strange incantations under his breath.


    The crimson heart trembled slightly, and suddenly, from atop the crimson heart, a drop of ck blood emerged. As the blood hit the ground, it instantly transformed into a massive altar, exactly like the one Zhongshan had seen before on Mount Zhongshan.


    Mr. Shi quickly retrieved another coffin, slowly walking out the original golden corpse from within. He didn''t bring out his silver corpse, only a single golden one.


    After the Golden Corpse emerged, Mr. Shi swiftly tidied up the numerous coffins, then sat cross-legged, closing his eyes and intoning eerie incantations.


    The Golden Corpse slowly sank into the ground, earthbending, descending gradually like so.


    Hidden in the shadows, Zhongshan witnessed this scene, knowing that the Golden Corpse''s destination was surely his own objective. With a slight sinking feeling, he followed suit, slipping through the crevices of the soil. Though his progress wasn''t swift, he eventually caught up with the Golden Corpse.

 Chapter 79: The Heart of the Ore

    <h4>Chapter 79: The Heart of the Ore</h4>


    In the days prior, Zhongshan had learned from Qing Si about zombies, the darlings of the earth. For a person of the Nine Yin Meridians, buried in the most yin ce, after a century, they absorbed the earth''s yin energy to be these beings neither alive nor dead. Zombies could further advance to be Copper Corpses.


    Above the Copper Corpses were Silver Corpses, devoid of reason, wreaking havoc everywhere, either destroyed by others or controlled by them. Golden Corpses were a step further, capable of flight and earthbending. Unlike somemon rodents that burrow underground, zombies seemed to merge with the earth itself, a phenomenon quite miraculous.


    Encounters with Silver Corpses were rare, Golden Corpses even more so, bing legends. As for what might be above Golden Corpses, that remained unclear.


    Zhongshan had been trailing the Golden Corpse, steadily descending underground.


    The Golden Corpse seemed to know where the treasurey, veering to one side and then the other. Zhongshan followed closely, but as they delved deeper, the soil became denser, slowing down his movements through the soil crevices.


    After half an incense stick''s time, just when Zhongshan was nearly unable to keep up with the Golden Corpse, it came to a halt.


    Spiritual energy��abundant spiritual energy filled this ce, denser even than the spiritual energy of Kaiyang Sect''s own ming Fruit Heaven. Was there treasure here?


    Zhongshan moved closer, and suddenly, amidst this pitch-ck environment, a plethora of light dazzled.


    Red, blue��in the depths of the earth, radiance filled the darkness.


    Spirit stones, both Yin and Yang, in massive quantities, densely packed and extending into the distance��was this a spirit stone mine?


    The spirit stones seemed like individual entities, even in a spirit stone mine, each one separate rather than forming a unified whole, which was quite peculiar.


    The Golden Corpse halted before this spirit stone mine, and Zhongshan''s heart brightened upon seeing it. Found it.


    Found it��the Nine Dragons Skyward Jade was found. Zhongshan had asked Qing Si about spirit stone mines in the past few days, and generally speaking, there would only be one type, either a Yin or Yang spirit stone mine. It was impossible for both to coexist simultaneously.


    Thus, the Nine Dragons Skyward Jade was the only usible exnation. As mentioned in "The Forged Heavenly Court," once formed, the Nine Dragons Skyward Jade would gather spiritual energy from all directions, embracing the fortune of all eight directions and guarding it without dispersing.


    The spirit stones here must have gathered to form the Nine Dragons Skyward Jade. It resided within this endless expanse of spirit stones.


    But why had the Golden Corpse stopped?


    Just as Zhongshan pondered,


    "Boom!"


    The Golden Corpse''s right arm suddenly thrust forward, a golden beam of light erupting from its fist, hurtling towards the endless expanse of spirit stones before it.


    n the depths underground, sound struggled to propagate, amplifying the magnitude of the noise for Zhongshan. With a resounding boom, a passage was abruptly carved through the spirit stone mine before him.


    The Golden Corpse darted into the interior, then thrust out its fist again, unleashing another beam of light. The Golden Corpse''s body continued to advance inward.


    The Golden Corpse could earthbend, but within the spirit stone mine, it seemed unable to do so.


    Seeing this, Zhongshan felt a surge of joy. Good, good, good! The Golden Corpse could only break through the spirit stone mine to continue its advance. But Zhongshan had a different n. The interior of the spirit stone mine was riddled with crevices, and traversing here as a shadow was much faster than in the soil.


    In the blink of an eye, a shadow shot out from the side of the Golden Corpse like a ghostly apparition. In an instant, Zhongshan was speeding towards the center of the spirit stone mine.


    Meanwhile, above, Mr. Shi held the blood-red heart in his hand, his eyes suddenly widening in disbelief.


    "Sir, have you found something?" the emperor asked Mr. Shi.


    Mr. Shi nced at the emperor but said nothing. Instead, he closed his eyes again and continued tomand the Golden Corpse.


    Seeing Mr. Shi''s disrespect towards the emperor, the others red disapprovingly, but the emperor remained remarkably tolerant, saying nothing and patiently waiting.


    While the Golden Corpse traversed the bottom of the mine, Zhongshan''s speed was tenfold, a hundredfold that of the Golden Corpse. In an instant, he had covered a distance of ten miles.


    Feeling the denser and denser spiritual energy, Zhongshan''s speed increased. After a quarter of an incense stick''s time, Zhongshan suddenly stopped,ing to a halt because he had finally seen what he sought.


    In the very center of the spirit stone mine, where there were no more spirit stones, within a spherical environment with a diameter of one zhang, the spiritual energy was so dense that it had liquefied. Incredibly dense spiritual liquid shrouded an object in the center.


    It was a jade stone the size of a human head, multicolored with nine dragon-shaped reliefs protruding from its surface. Each dragon was a different color, nine in total. The nine dragons encircled the multicolored jade stone as if they could take flight at any moment yet were reluctant to leave the jade stone. They looked vividly lifelike, to the extent that Zhongshan felt as though the nine dragons were alive.


    This was it��the Nine Dragons Skyward Jade, his Nine Dragons Skyward!


    Zhongshan''s eyes brimmed with delight.


    Suddenly, booming sounds came from behind�� the Golden Corpse was approaching. Zhongshan immediately transformed his shadowy arm into a hand and reached out towards the Nine Dragons Skyward Jade shrouded in spiritual liquid.


    As his hand extended into the liquid, arge amount of spiritual energy rushed into his arm as if eager to enter Zhongshan''s body.


    Zhongshan widened his eyes, naturally refraining from absorbing it; even a drop of this spiritual liquid would be enough to burst him. With a wave of his storage bracelet, the Nine Dragons Skyward Jade suddenly vanished, stored within the bracelet.


    In that instant, arge amount of spiritual liquid seemed to lose its restraint, vaporizing into gas and suddenly transforming into a powerful surge of spiritual energy. It rushed rapidly in all directions through the crevices of the spirit stone mine, creating a tremendous wave that caused the entire mine to tremble.


    The Golden Corpse abruptly stopped, and above, Mr. Shi''s expression changed abruptly to one of anger and impatience. He knew that someone had snatched the Nine Dragons Skyward Jade ahead of him. It was that shadow just now. What was that shadow?


    Filled with shock and anger, Mr. Shimanded the Golden Corpse to swiftly charge towards the center, determined to reim the Nine Dragons Skyward Jade to fulfill his promise.


    But would Zhongshan wait for him?


    Having obtained the treasure, Zhongshan disregarded the surrounding spirit stones and the approaching rumbling behind him. He had to hurry.


    Once again, he transformed into a shadow and shot off into the distance at lightning speed.


    Zhongshan''s shadow had a peculiar connection with his main body; it could sense where his main body was. Following this instinct, he darted towards his main body.


    When the Golden Corpse finally broke through countless spirit stones to reach the center, it found that the Nine Dragons Skyward Jade was long gone. The person who had snatched it was nowhere to be seen, and none of the surrounding spirit stones were damaged. How had they entered? What was the shadow? How could this happen?


    For the first time, Mr. Shi felt a sense of defeat. Even when facing someone with cultivation far surpassing his own, Mr. Shi had never felt defeated before. But this time, he felt truly defeated. In his own area of expertise, someone had managed to do something even he couldn''t perceive.


    Sighing, Mr. Shi quickly directed the Golden Corpse to retreat. Meanwhile, the Mr. Shi on the surface gently opened his eyes, a difficult-to-describe expression shing across them.


    "How did it go, sir?" the emperor asked.


    "Your Majesty, this time I encountered a formidable opponent. I failed to obtain the ''Nine Dragons Skyward Jade,'' please forgive me," Mr. Shi sighed, furrowing his brow.


    "What? You have the Golden Corpse, unparalleled in earthbending. How could someone have snatched it from you? Who could be stronger than the Golden Corpse underground?" someone behind the emperor immediately protested, their tone filled with anger. Others red in agreement.


    "Silence!" the emperor immediately snapped.


    The people behind the emperor immediately fell silent, but they couldn''t hide their disbelief when they looked at Mr. Shi.


    "If Mr. Shi says there''s a formidable opponent, then there must be one. I trust Mr. Shi. Without the Nine Dragons Skyward Jade, our Yin Moon Dynasty can do without it, but we cannot do without Mr. Shi. If anyone disrespects Mr. Shi again in the future, they will be punished!" the emperor dered, his tone carrying an imposing majesty.


    Mr. Shi watched coldly, without saying a word. Given his lower cultivation, it was normal for these people to be disrespectful towards him. The emperor''s words were clearly aimed at winning hearts, but Mr. Shi remained proud and unswayed. At least not yet.


    "Your Majesty, rest assured, I will do my utmost to find the Skyward Jade for Your Majesty as soon as possible," Mr. Shi said earnestly.


    "Thank you, Mr. Shi," the emperor responded promptly.


    "Mm." Mr. Shi nodded, then paid no further attention to the others, calmly directing the Golden Corpse to return and then dismissing it.

 Chapter 80: Dragon鈥檚 Eye

    <h4>Chapter 80: Dragon''s Eye</h4>


    Within the Second Renyi Formation, where the Gate of Wounds and Princess Qianyou were located, the scene was intense. Princess Qianyou, Ah Da, Ah Er, and Gu Lin were protected in the center by eight formidable guards. Meanwhile, Yinn and Tian Ling''er were surrounded by Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi.


    The disparity in the enemies they faced was striking. Yinn and Tian Ling''er watched in amazement as the eight guards battled fiercely against grass soldiers that seemed as powerful as celestial beings. In stark contrast, the grass soldiers confronting Zhong Shan wereughably feeble, each falling with a single strike from him.


    Half an hour had passed, and the situation remained unchanged. Three of the eight guards were seriously injured, while Zhong Shan appeared barely challenged.


    "Qianyou, how much longer do we have to wait? Are you sure Shuijing won''t fail?" Gu Lin asked, his brows furrowed with worry.


    "He won''t. The master is handling it personally. There shouldn''t be any mistakes. We just need to wait a bit longer," Princess Qianyou replied, also frowning.


    "Shuijing might not be as capable as you think. Otherwise, my father wouldn''t rely on him so heavily at the pce," Gu Lin remarked with a hint of jealousy.


    "I told you before to ask your father to give Mr. Shuijing to you, and then you could give him to me. Did you ask him?" Princess Qianyou asked, her brow furrowing deeper as she looked at Gu Lin.


    Gu Lin wore a pained expression as he replied, "I did, but Shuijing refused to leave the pce, and my father wouldn''t let him go either. What could I do? Do you want me to go back and try asking again?"


    Princess Qianyou sighed softly, "Forget it. If your father won''t agree, there''s no point in asking again. We won''t get him anyway."


    Suddenly, the ground trembled, and the entire formation became rmingly unstable. The earth beneath them shook violently.


    "Shuijing has seeded," Gu Lin eximed with excitement.


    In the center of the grasnd, the ground cracked open, revealing a massive gate that slowly rose from the earth. The towering gate, standing three hundred meters tall, seemed to beckon the warriors to enter.


    Upon seeing the enormous gate, everyone in the formation sprang into action, fighting off the grass soldiers and making their way towards it. Though they encountered resistance along the way, the promise of treasures beyond the gate spurred them on.


    "Eight guards, clear the path," Princess Qianyoumanded.


    "Yes, Princess," the eight guards responded, swiftly cutting down the grass soldiers and paving a way towards the giant gate.


    With four guards leading the charge and the remaining four, along with Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi, guarding the nks, they advanced smoothly towards their goal.


    As they approached, those near the gate had already arrived and were about to step through.


    A sudden, thunderous crash echoed through the air.


    Before the massive crystal gate, a barrier materialized out of thin air, halting everyone in their tracks.


    The first person, charging too hastily, mmed into the barrier with a thunderous crash. He was sent flying backward, his head cracked open and bleeding profusely. Tragically, hended right in front of several grass soldiers.


    "Hiss, hiss, hiss."


    The grass soldiers dismembered him into ten pieces. He was dead!


    Witnessing the gruesome fate of the first person, those behind became more cautious. Some started to fend off the surrounding grass soldiers, while others began to strike at the crystal gate with their long swords.


    "ng, ng, ng..."


    Flying swords, wielded by cultivators at the Golden Core stage, unleashed powerful sword auras. Yet, despite these fierce attacks, the crystal gate remained unscathed. The immense sword energy, even from Golden Core cultivators, failed to leave a single mark.


    Perhaps it was because not all the Golden Core cultivators could attack simultaneously, or maybe if everyone attacked at once, they could break through the crystal gate. However, the interference from the grass soldiers made it impossible to concentrate their efforts fully.


    At this moment, Princess Qianyou and her entourage slowly approached the gate. The strength of Princess Qianyou''s group was undeniable. Flying through the air, they had been noticed by everyone even before entering the formation. Yet, no one dared to approach them.


    As they arrived before the massive crystal gate, everyone seemed to share a tacit understanding. They stepped aside and cleared the surrounding grass soldiers, giving Princess Qianyou and her group the opportunity to break through the gate.


    Everyone knew that Princess Qianyou, along with her two guards, were at the Nascent Soul stage, far surpassing the capabilities of their sect leaders.


    Princess Qianyou, noticing the crowd''s deference, smiled slightly, a hint of disdain in her eyes as she looked at the massive crystal gate ahead.


    "A-Da, Tiger Roar Fist,"manded Princess Qianyou.


    "Yes," A-Da responded immediately, stepping forward and sheathing his long sword.


    Everyone moved aside as A-Da faced the gigantic crystal gate. His eyes turned cold, and a pair of gauntlets suddenly appeared in his hands, which he carefully put on.


    Taking a forward stance, A-Da nted one foot firmly behind the other, crossing his arms over his chest. As he did, it seemed as if a whirlwind of energy began to gather from that very center.


    In an instant, he assumed a bow stance, drawing power into his fists. A powerful stream of energy started to converge around A-Da.


    "Whooosh��������������������������������"


    The gathering energy was so rapid it seemed to disrupt the surrounding space. A-Da clenched his fists, and with the amassed power, heunched a powerful double-fisted strike towards the crystal gate.


    From his fists emanated a formidable aura, propelling the umted energy towards the gate.


    "Roar������������������������������������������������"


    A-Da''s fists shot forward, emitting a roar that resembled a tiger''s growl. The roar was so powerful it felt as if a colossal tiger was bellowing in rage. The force of the air, apanied by a golden halo from A-Da''s strike, transformed into a formidable power aimed at the crystal gate. The immense energy coalesced into a distinct shape.


    A tiger, fierce and majestic, pounced forward in a hunger-driven attack. This golden tiger, entirely formed of energy, charged towards the crystal gate, enveloped by the swirling air currents.


    "Roar������������������������������������������������"


    The tiger''s roar lingered, trailing the winds as it sped towards the crystal gate.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������"


    The tiger collided with the crystal gate, producing an earth-shattering sound. The immense impact generated a tremendous effect.


    "Crash������������������������������������������������"


    The massive crystal gate shattered into countless fragments, which scattered in all directions. In mid-air, the crystal shards vanished as if they had never existed.


    The gate was broken.


    A-Da''s strike was powerful and domineering, his double fists capable of shattering such a formidable gate. Everyone looked at A-Da with a mixture of awe and fear. His punch was overwhelmingly dominant!


    Zhong Shan, although shocked, maintained a calm andposed exterior, showing no hint of fear.


    With the gate broken, A-Da quickly moved to stand behind Princess Qianyou. Ignoring the reactions of the onlookers, Princess Qianyou stepped forward through the broken gate. Her group followed closely, and only after they entered did the others cautiously proceed.


    Inside, Zhong Shan furrowed his brow. He had expected this to be the dragon''s eye, but the interior revealed another vast expanse.


    No, it wasn''t exactly a vast expanse; it was an area surrounded by mountains, and below, there were countless small gates, each about three meters high. These gates stood upright in the space below, each shrouded in ayer of white mist, obscuring whaty beyond them.


    Estimating the number of gates using a method for counting armies, Zhong Shan calcted that there were more than eighty thousand gates.


    "Why are there so many gates? Isn''t this supposed to be the dragon''s eye?" Gu Lin immediately eximed, frowning.


    "This is indeed the dragon''s eye. Taixuzi is within one of these gates," Princess Qianyou replied, her eyes narrowing as she gazed at the multitude of gates below.


    "How are we supposed to find it?" Gu Lin eximed again, his frustration evident. Finding Taixuzi among more than eighty thousand gates seemed an impossible task.


    Princess Qianyou nced at Gu Lin with a hint of disappointment. Clearly, she had little regard for hisck of insight. She then turned to look at the roughly four hundred people who had followed them in.


    "Everyone, there are eighty-eight thousand eight hundred and eighty-eight gates below. The spiritual stones that erupted recently should be scattered among them, and within one of these gates lies Taixuzi''s array spirit, waiting for someone to inherit it. Enter the gates and rely on your luck," Princess Qianyou addressed the crowd.


    "Thank you, Senior," the crowd responded in unison. They were surprised that such a powerful figure would share this opportunity with them. Although some were skeptical, they knew enough to believe that the gates below likely held either the array spirit or spiritual stones, as the princess had said.

 Chapter 81: Taixuzi

    <h4>Chapter 81: Taixuzi</h4>


    "Please, everyone, go ahead," Princess Qianyou said with a slight smile.


    Gu Lin, standing nearby, looked anxious. What was Qianyou doing? Why was she giving this opportunity to outsiders?


    Zhong Shan, observing Qianyou''s actions, felt a spark of admiration. What a clever woman!


    "Zhong Shan, let''s go down and find the array spirit," Tian Ling''er immediately suggested.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded at Tian Ling''er. He then nced at Yinn, who, through the brim of her hood, gave Zhong Shan a look indicating that she would follow his lead.


    Zhong Shan also noticed that Bei Qingsi was looking downwards, seemingly calcting something. There was a sh of excitement and a trace of concern in her eyes.


    Two days ago, Zhong Shan had deduced from Bei Qingsi''s words that she was looking for something important. She hadn''t found it yet. Since Bei Qingsi was ignoring the evidence to clear her father''s name and instead focused on breaking through the formation, it implied that the evidence must be within the formation. With Taixuzi being the only one controlling the formation, whatever Bei Qingsi sought must be with him.


    Judging by Bei Qingsi''s current expression, Zhong Shan quickly concluded that she knew which gate led to Taixuzi.


    "Why aren''t you going?" Princess Qianyou suddenly asked, looking at Zhong Shan''s group.


    Zhong Shan looked at Princess Qianyou and then quickly said, "Qingsi, take us down."


    Bei Qingsi nced at Zhong Shan, and a hint of gratitude appeared on her normally stoic face.


    "Alright," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    She threw her flying sword, which emitted a white glow. Zhong Shan, holding onto Yinn, stepped onto it. Tian Ling''er followed, stepping onto her red ribbon, and they all flew down together.


    The area below was vast. The hundreds of people present each rushed towards a gate of their choice.


    Standing on the flying sword, Zhong Shan noticed a peculiar phenomenon. A person would enter one gate and, shortly after, emerge from another. It wasn''t just one person��everyone experienced this. They entered one gate and exited another, as if the more than eighty thousand gates were strangely interconnected.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed, a hint of intrigue shing within them. However, he remained calm, letting Bei Qingsi guide them. Zhong Shan trusted that the gate Bei Qingsi led them to was where Taixuzi truly was.


    As Zhong Shan rode the flying sword, he felt two pairs of eyes fixed on him.


    One was Princess Qianyou. She had developed an appreciation for talent. Despite Zhong Shan''s rtively low cultivation level, his potential seemed boundless. Though she hadn''t used her spiritual sense to inspect him��since that was taboo in the cultivation world��she was interested in recruiting him.


    The other pair of eyes belonged to two men in white robes, one looking like a young boy, the other like a middle-aged man.


    "Chu Jiu, do you think we should find the array spirit?" the young boy asked with a smile.


    "Everything depends on Young Master''s decision," the middle-aged man said.


    "Just now, dealing with the Grass Bandits, you saw it too. This person named W�� is indeed extraordinary, rare to have strength equal to mine. He''s the one. Later, find a gate. In the gate, you guard the surroundings, while I duel with this person," the young man solemnly dered, as if battle were the most exhrating thing in the world.


    "Yes," the middle-aged man promptly responded.


    On the mountain, Gu Lin anxiously watched as the group searched below.


    "Qian You, aren''t we going to search? What if these people get hold of the Formation Spirit? Haven''t we been paving the way for others?" Gu Lin anxiously inquired.


    ncing at Gu Lin, Princess Qian You sighed, "Fusing with the Formation Spirit isn''t something done in haste. Ah Er has an impable memory. As long as he''s seen it, he remembers it all. These people swiftly enter and exit various gates, with each entry and exit screening out two gates for us. If they stay inside one withouting out, that''s when they''ve found Tai Xu Zi."


    "Then shall we enter then?" Gu Lin suddenly seemed to grasp the situation.


    With a helpless nce at Gu Lin, Princess Qian You softly ''mm''ed.


    "Zhong Shan, which gate shall we enter?" Tian Ling''er flew by the side of Bei Qing Si, asking.


    ncing at Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shan then looked at Bei Qing Si, "We follow Master Uncle. We will surely find Tai Xu Zi."


    "Oh?" Tian Ling''er''s mouth opened in disbelief.


    But Bei Qing Si''s gaze towards Zhong Shan held an unexpected hint of surprise, and as she looked at Zhong Shan, her eyes also bore a strange expression.


    Soon, the four descended to the valley below, standing before a gate.


    "Let''s go," Bei Qing Si softly said.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded. With Ying Lan and Tian Ling''er following, they stepped inside. At this moment, Zhong Shan''s concealed figure also arrived here.


    The four entered.


    In an instant, the surroundings changed drastically, and the group suddenly found themselves in a very peculiar environment.


    A chasm of ten thousand feet deep, yet it seemed to have a transparent floor, preventing them from falling. Beyond the abyss, it wasn''t pitch ck, but rather filled with peculiar scenes. Many of these scenes were outside the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, beyond the grand formation, very peculiar, as if from this ce, they could see everything outside the grand formation.


    And encircling above were scenes of cultivators breaking through formations from all directions. Here, they could see everything inside the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, all scenes visible here, including Tian Sha and Mister Shui Jing.


    This was the central hub of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, where the Dragon Eye resided.


    At the center of this transparent ground sat an old man with a sallowplexion.


    The old man wore a set of yellow clothes, but it seemed as if a thickyer of dust had umted on them. His hair was yellowed, and there was a considerable amount of sweat under his armpits.


    The old man kept smiling as he looked at the group, and Bei Qing Si slowly approached, with Zhong Shan leading the two women behind.


    "So stinky," Tian Ling''er immediately covered her nose, frowning.


    "Hahaha!" The old man suddenly burst into heartyughter.


    "Ling''er," Zhong Shan furrowed his brows and called.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s furrowed brows, Tian Ling''er immediately stuck out her tongue.


    "The youngdy is right, it does stink, and I stink too," the old man shook his head with a wry smile.


    "Elder, Ling''er is naive and outspoken, with no filter in her words. Please forgive her impudence," Zhong Shan quickly apologized on behalf of Tian Ling''er. Based on the information he had gathered over the past two days, Zhong Shan knew that the old man in front of him, Tai Xu Zi, was nearing death. As they say, a dying man''s words are often sincere. Some people be kind before their demise, but some be extremely extreme. Zhong Shan had never met Tai Xu Zi before, so he was cautious.


    "No worries. Your unexpected arrival here is quite surprising. You don''t need to worry. I just want to find a sessor to inherit our ancestors'' Formation Spirit and help me with a task. In this generation, there''s only one Formation Spirit left. Among you four, who wants the Formation Spirit?" the old man smiled at them.


    Zhong Shan furrowed his brows but remained silent.


    "Elder, I didn''te for the Formation Spirit. I''m here to find something else," Bei Qing Si suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh?" The old man looked at Bei Qing Si with some curiosity.


    "I''m Bei Qing Si, daughter of Bei Qing Feng. My father was framed by his enemies, and he once left something with you, Elder. Please, in consideration of my father, give me that item to clear his name," Bei Qing Si requested urgently.


    "You''re Bei Qing Feng''s daughter? Ah, yes, with your appearance, it''s no wonder the Bei family''s bloodline has been activated once again in your generation. I should have thought of it earlier. It''s just a pity about Qing Feng, sigh, he passed away even before me," the old man became somewhat excited and regretful.


    In a swift movement, the old man took out a purple book.


    "I was just about to ask someone to bring this item to you, but you''vee on your own. Here, take it. Remembering the days when Qing Feng and I served together in the court really brings back memories. It''s just that I wasn''t fortunate enough to leave behind an heir," Tai Xu Zi sighed as he handed over the book.


    Tears of excitement welled up in Bei Qing Si''s eyes as she looked at the purple book.


    "Thank you so much, Elder," Bei Qing Si said, deeply moved.


    "Your father and I were brothers. You can call me Uncle," Tai Xu Zi told Bei Qing Si.


    "Uncle," Bei Qing Si echoed softly.


    "Alright, alright, having a niece before my death is enough. The heavens aren''t unfair after all," Tai Xu Zi said, somewhat emotionally.


    "Huh?" Tian Ling''er suddenly eximed in surprise.


    Zhong Shan turned to look, only to find Tian Ling''er pointing at a spot below, where a scene disyed the surroundings outside the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhong Shan asked softly.


    "I know that ce," Tian Ling''er whispered to Zhong Shan.


    Meanwhile, on the other side...


    "I was originally looking for someone to inherit the Formation Spirit, but since my niece is here, I''ll give the Formation Spirit to you," Tai Xu Zi immediately spoke up.


    "No, Uncle, I have no use for the Formation Spirit. Please give it to Zhong Shan," Bei Qing Si quickly refused, putting away the book.


    "Zhong Shan?" Tai Xu Zi turned to look at Zhong Shan.


    It was obviously a male name, so it wasn''t difficult to guess.


    Looking somewhat surprised, Tai Xu Zi scrutinized Zhong Shan for a while and said, "Your aptitude is too poor. Only at the Fourth Stage of Innate? Strange, strange."


    Zhong Shan scratched his nose, knowing his aptitude was indeed poor, but there was no need for such a blunt evaluation.


    "Niece, are you really giving it to him?" Tai Xu Zi suddenly turned to Bei Qing Si with a strange look.


    And for the first time, Bei Qing Si blushed.


    "Hahaha!" Tai Xu Zi burst intoughter knowingly, then looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Alright, kid, I''ll pass on the Formation Spirit to you. Just don''t let down my niece," Tai Xu Zi said immediately.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan touched his nose again.


    "Uncle, what are you saying? You''re mistaken. It was Zhong Shan who brought the news to you. My niece is grateful to him. Besides, I don''t want to enter the battlefield, and the Formation Spirit wouldn''t be of much use to me anyway," Bei Qing Si quickly rified.


    "Huh? Alright then," Tai Xu Zi shook his head.


    "Elder," Zhong Shan immediately addressed Tai Xu Zi.


    Since the misunderstanding was cleared up, Tai Xu Zi reconsidered Zhong Shan.


    "Could you pass the inheritance to her?" Zhong Shan pointed to Ying Lan.


    PS: Seeking votes!

 Chapter 82: Thunder Flower

    <h4>Chapter 82: Thunder Flower</h4>


    "Her?" Tai Xu Zi looked somewhat surprised at the ck-robed Ying Lan.


    Ying Lan immediately took off her hat, revealing her beautiful face.


    Inspecting this woman, who hadn''t even reached the Innate stage, Tai Xu Zi nodded after careful consideration. "Although you haven''t reached the Innate stage yet, your aptitude is excellent. If thest piece of the Formation Spirit falls into your hands, it won''t be wasted."


    "Thank you, Elder," Ying Lan said respectfully.


    "Wait, I haven''t said I''ll give it to you," Tai Xu Zi shook his head.


    "Huh?" Ying Lan was taken aback, while Zhong Shan frowned slightly, then nced at Bei Qing Si.


    "Who is she to you?" Tai Xu Zi pointed at Zhong Shan and asked Ying Lan.


    "She''s my granddaughter," Zhong Shan immediately answered.


    At Zhong Shan''s words, Ying Lan hesitated for a moment, unsure why Zhong Shan referred to her as a granddaughter instead of a grandniece, but she quickly nodded seriously. Cooperating with Zhong Shan, she knew better than to question him.


    "Granddaughter?" Tai Xu Zi looked somewhat surprised at Ying Lan, then nced at Zhong Shan before nodding in agreement.


    Tian Ling''er, perhaps due to her straightforward nature, didn''t notice any difference, but Bei Qing Si did, although she didn''t understand why Zhong Shan said what he did.


    "Well, since she''s your granddaughter, there''s no need for reservations," Tai Xu Zi nodded.


    Then, Tai Xu Zi gently turned his hand, and a gray-green energy sphere suddenly appeared in his palm.


    He handed it over to Ying Lan.


    "Infuse it with your blood. Just a little at a time," Tai Xu Zi instructed.


    "Okay," Ying Lan understood that this was a great opportunity, so she quickly cut her palm and began to infuse her blood into the energy sphere. However, it seemed that the absorption rate wasn''t fast enough, as it could only be absorbed bit by bit.


    As the gray-green energy absorbed the blood, it gradually became lighter and began to fade.


    "It will take half an hour to fully integrate. You''ll have to wait patiently," Tai Xu Zi frowned.


    "Yes," Ying Lan nodded.


    Turning his head, Tai Xu Zi looked at Bei Qing Si.


    "Qing Si, my time is running out, and I''m about to reach the end of my life. The signs of aging are already evident��dirty clothes, withered hair, sweating under the armpits, and a foul odor. I''ll be dead soon. The item in this bracelet was originally meant to be passed on to the one who inherited the Formation Spirit, but now that you''re here, it naturally belongs to my niece. Take it," Tai Xu Zi said to Bei Qing Si.


    "Uncle," Bei Qing Si looked at Tai Xu Zi, a hint of sadness shing in her eyes. This uncle she had just met, was he going to die soon?


    "Hurry up," Tai Xu Zi urged.


    "Yes," Bei Qing Si nodded.


    Then, with a light touch of the two bracelets, the contents inside were all transferred to Bei Qing Si''s bracelet. Bei Qing Si didn''t examine them closely, but a trace of sorrow shed in her eyes.


    After that, Tai Xu Zi told Bei Qing Si some things about Bei Qing Feng, while Ying Lan refined the Formation Spirit.


    Zhong Shan looked at Tian Ling''er again.


    "Ling''er, what did you see just now?" Zhong Shan asked.


    TianLing''er pointed to a picture below and said, "That ce, my dad and I have been there. There are two Thunder Flowers inside. My dad refused to collect them, but let''s go back and get them now."


    Zhong Shan looked at Tian Ling''er in surprise. Tian Ling''er seemed to be a lucky star, although she always led herself into danger, there was always a benefit afterward. It was either a treasure like the Berserk Pill form or the Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworm, or it significantly improved his cultivation, like the second stage of the Red Phoenix Heavenly Scripture after the Ice Crow, the third stage after the Undead, or the second stage of the Heavenly Court Forging Technique and the Demon Tempering Technique after the Snake Belly.


    Every time he encountered trouble, it was apanied by a great benefit. Could there be another treasure this time?


    Zhong Shan looked at the scenery there, his heart filled with uncertainty. If Tian Ling''er said there was treasure, he needed to consider whether there might be danger.


    As if sensing Zhong Shan''s hesitation, Tian Ling''er immediately said, "It''s very safe there. Last time we stayed there for half a day, and not a single living creature appeared."


    "Why didn''t you take it then?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "My dad wouldn''t allow it. He said it wasn''t ripe yet and needed three more years. Now, it''s been exactly three years," Tian Ling''er said promptly.


    Still, Zhong Shan hesitated.


    "Those Thunder Flowers are essential for refining a third-grade pill and are extremely rare. Although it''s a third-grade pill, it''s even rarer than a fifth-grade pill," Tian Ling''er exined.


    "What kind of pill?" Zhong Shan asked strangely.


    "The Ascension Pill," Tian Ling''er said.


    "What?" Zhong Shan''s expression changed.


    "The Ascension Pill," Tian Ling''er said with a smile, as if she had anticipated Zhong Shan''s expression.


    For other pills, Zhong Shan might not have cared, but this pill had been mentioned by Tian Ling''er and Nan Batian during their time in the Kaiyang Sect.


    The Ascension Pill was simr to the Breaking Forbidden Pill. The Breaking Forbidden Pill was a pill that advanced from the acquired realm to the innate realm, while the Ascension Pill was a pill that advanced from the innate realm to the Golden Core realm.


    For others, the Ascension Pill might not be very important, but for Zhong Shan, it was crucial. With his aptitude, he needed the help of pills to reach the Golden Core stage.


    "Is it really safe?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Tian Ling''er immediately said, "Of course, there''s nothing to worry about."


    "Okay," Zhong Shan nodded, taking note.


    At the same time, Zhong Shan noticed Princess Qianyou staring at the door where he was. Not good! Zhong Shan nced at the merging process of Ying Lan, immediately feeling worried. It wasn''t that Princess Qianyou noticed this door, but she had been focusing on it all along. When she looked at Zhong Shan, he entered, and then he didn''te out? Had he been found?


    Just as Princess Qianyou was about to send someone to the door where Zhong Shan was, suddenly, Zhong Shan emerged from another door below. Zhong Shan appeared again? Although the other three women weren''t seen, since Zhong Shan came out of another door, it was impossible for Tai Xuzi to be in the previous door.


    Breathing a sigh of relief, Princess Qianyou looked at A''er, who was still frowning and looking down, apparently not seeing anyone entering a door withouting out. Of course, there was also a hint of doubt about Bei Qingsi and the others, but since Zhong Shan came out of another door, the previous door was directly excluded.


    Slowly, more people entered from behind, rushing towards the doors below because everyone had a rough idea.


    After a while, Mr. Shuijing gently shook his feather fan and entered with Tian Sha and the guards.


    "Princess, I am d I didn''t disappoint you," Mr. Shuijing smiled.


    "You''ve done well, sir," Princess Qianyou said.


    When Tian Sha entered, he saw Princess Qianyou and the others, a hint of surprise shed in his eyes. At the same time, when he looked at Mr. Shuijing, there was also admiration.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, the Soul of the Array is right below. I won''t say more. It''s up to your luck," Mr. Shuijing smiled.


    "Okay," Tian Sha nodded, leading the people from Kaiyang Sect to disperse towards the doors.


    After Tian Sha left, Mr. Shuijing looked at Princess Qianyou again. "Crown Prince, Princess, how is it?"


    "A''er still hasn''t found anything," Princess Qianyou shook her head.


    "Okay," Mr. Shuijing nodded. On the side, Gu Lin was anxious, afraid that someone would take the lead.


    Zhong Shan''s sudden appearance dispelled Princess Qianyou''s doubts, but she didn''t know that in the secluded door where Zhong Shan was, it was only Zhong Shan''s hidden body apanying Tian Ling''er. The allure of the hidden body sessfully deceived Princess Qianyou.


    The hidden body turned and walked into another door. Not far away, two people in white clothes followed Zhong Shan''s hidden body.


    Zhong Shan entered another door and found that the environment here waspletely different from the Dragon Eye where Tai Xuzi was.


    Inside, there was an open space with a diameter of a hundred meters. About three hundred spirit stones were scattered on the ground. Outside the hundred-meter open space, there was white mist all around, and there were crystal walls simr to the ones before, no, crystal walls, indestructible.


    But in this circr environment, besides himself entering this door, there were seven other doors, as if the eight doors of the Great Formation were arranged in all directions.


    Zhong Shan knew that if he went out from the other seven doors, he would inexplicably appear within Princess Qianyou''s line of sight.


    In the hidden body''s storage bracelet, besides the Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade, there were also arge number of spirit stones he had taken away. Naturally, he didn''t care about these few hundred.


    Preparing to go out from another door to continue dying Princess Qianyou, but just as Zhong Shan was about to go out, two people suddenly appeared in this peculiar environment. Moreover, ording to Zhong Shan''s first feeling, these two seemed to be specifically targeting him.


    Both of them carried swords on their backs. One seemed to be a middle-aged man, standing behind him like a servant, while the other was a young man with a heroic spirit in his brows and a determined look in his eyes, very sharp.


    As soon as the young man entered this door, he stared at Zhong Shan intently, and a strong sense of battle intent burst forth from his eyes.


    Looking at these two strangers, Zhong Shan raised his eyebrows, his eyes showing a hint of surprise.

 Chapter 83: Please Duel

    <h4>Chapter 83: Please Duel</h4>


    Zhong Shan was originally nning to retreat to the side, but the middle-aged man in white suddenly appeared in front of him, blocking his path. His speed was too fast, so fast that Zhong Shan only saw a trace of afterimage, and then suddenly another person appeared in front of him.


    Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, revealing a strong sense of solemnity.


    Turning his head, Zhong Shan looked at the young man, because Zhong Shan could tell that this young man was the leader of the two.


    "I am Zhong Shan. May I ask why you are blocking my way?" Zhong Shan asked, his eyes fixed on the young man. He didn''t understand why he was being stopped; he didn''t even know him.


    "Please duel," the young man didn''t say much, but just two simple words.


    "Please duel?" In the imperial court, it meant to offer direct advice to a superior, but among martial artists, it meant a challenge. Whether the challenge seeded or not, the opponent would attack.


    Looking at the young man, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. It was obvious that the middle-aged man''s cultivation far exceeded his own. If he had deep-seated enmity, he could have attacked directly. But "please duel" was a form of respect to the opponent. Did he want to fight him? Why?


    "Haven''t introduced yourself yet?" Zhong Shan asked immediately.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, the young man ced his hand on the hilt behind his back and said, "If you don''t die, I''ll tell you."


    "Ring~~~"


    The young man drew a pitch-ck long sword, pointing it slowly towards Zhong Shan.


    Seeing the long sword pointed at him, Zhong Shan didn''t make a move because some things needed to be rified before dealing with the unexpected events that followed.


    "I don''t know you, why did you choose me? Or have you seen me make a move somewhere?" Zhong Shan asked cautiously while remaining vignt.


    Zhong Shan could only think of when he dealt with the Grass Soldiers before, but it was still better to confirm.


    "Last time, you killed a Golden Core cultivator, and I happened to pass by," the young man said lightly.


    Golden Core cultivator? Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed. The Mysterious Immortal? Did he see him kill the Mysterious Immortal ande looking for him?


    "Draw your sword," the young manmanded.


    ncing at the middle-aged man beside him, Zhong Shan lightly drew out his long sword, "Undying."


    "You don''t need to worry about the Ninth Layer, he won''t interfere. You can fight freely. Also, don''t worry, we''re the same, both at the Fourth Layer of the Heavenly Realm," the young man said.


    Hearing what the young man said, Zhong Shan felt slightly relieved. There was no mischief involved, but it seemed that the other party was not a despicable person.


    Seeing that Zhong Shan drew a sword instead of the big knife, the young man frowned slightly, but he didn''t say much. No one would joke with their own life. Since you have drawn a sword, then let''s fight!


    "Ring~~~"


    The young man''s eyes narrowed, and the long sword in his hand stabbed swiftly towards Zhong Shan. The speed was so fast that it didn''t seem like the power of the Fourth Layer of the Heavenly Realm at all. At the tip of the sword, sword aura flickered, as if it could turn into sword qi and shoot out at any time.


    The sword came too fast. Zhong Shan quickly dodged and deflected the sword aura with his long sword.


    "Ding!"


    With a brief touch, the two swiftly separated. Zhongshan narrowed his eyes, impressed by the profoundness of his opponent''s swordsmanship and the formidable strength behind it. He narrowly avoided having his own longsword sent flying from his hand.


    Zhongshan primarily practiced the art of the de, but his concealed form also honed his skills with the sword. His de techniques were fierce, and his swordsmanship was just as formidable; to him, his swordy was no less than his skill with the de.


    Without hesitation, Zhongshan charged forward, but the youth before him remained unperturbed, his longsword thrusting towards Zhongshan with urgency.


    For Zhongshan, reading the patterns of the de had be instinctual, just as discerning the weakest point of a sword thrust had be his second nature. Swiftly, Zhongshan''s longsword instinctively aimed for the weakest spot in the youth''s de.


    Normally, such a move would have been effective, but the youth seemed to anticipate Zhongshan''s intentions. With a hint of excitement in his eyes, the youth deftly maneuvered his longsword, evading Zhongshan''s strike and countering with a swift sidestroke.


    <i>ng!</i>


    The two swords shed once again, but Zhongshan found himself unable to gain any ground. Undeterred, he pressed on, his ferocious nature fully evident even in this concealed form. He fought relentlessly, each strike precise and deadly.


    Every move Zhongshan made was met with equal skill by the youth, who seemed increasingly thrilled by the challenge. Rather than growing impatient, Zhongshan fought with measured determination, using the encounter to sharpen his own swordsmanship.


    As the battle wore on, Zhongshan seemed to relish the fight, finding joy in the exhrating exchange. Only through such intensebat could his swordsmanship truly progress. Strike after strike, Zhongshan pushed himself to his limits, fully unleashing his potential and striving for improvement.


    Suddenly, a neer burst into the scene, only to be swiftly kicked out by Zhongshan''spanion, Chu Jiu. The intruder, bewildered by the unexpected force, staggered away, no longer daring to intrude.


    Although there were no spirit formations within, the sight of someone being ejected caught the attention of many bystanders. Each sessive attempt to enter ended in the same manner, leaving onlookers puzzled and intrigued.


    Chu Jiu had created an environment conducive to their duel, and interruptions were not tolerated.


    After battling for some time, Zhongshan noticed a change in the youth''s demeanor. His swordsmanship suddenly intensified, indicating his growing seriousness.


    Surprised by the youth''s newfound determination, Zhongshan wondered if his opponent still had reserves of energy to spare.


    Their swords shed once more, but this time, as Zhongshan moved to evade, the youth''s sword inexplicably appeared in the path Zhongshan had intended to take.


    The youth''s strength seemed beyond ordinary, leaving Zhongshan astonished and forcing him to halt abruptly. Even Chu Jiu looked on with disbelief.


    How could this be? It was as if an object falling from the sky suddenly stopped in mid-air, defying gravity and even ascending. It was utterly illogical.


    <i>Dang!</i>


    The sound of the sh echoed through the air, signaling the continuation of their intense battle.


    Zhongshan narrowly dodged the youth''s sword, his abrupt halt and reverse movement seemingly ghost-like. Such feats were impossible for an ordinary cultivator, but Zhongshan''s concealed form was truly like a ghost, stopping and moving at will,pletely defying convention.


    <i>ng, ng, ng...</i>


    This time, it was the youth whounched a fierce attack. His longsword moved with unparalleled speed, each strike surpassing thest. Zhongshan, with his keen eyesight, felt a sense of uncertainty, as if he couldn''t grasp the full extent of the youth''s movements.


    Zhongshan marveled at the whirlwind of blows unleashed by the youth. Several times, he narrowly escaped defeat. Could there really be someone this powerful in the world? Was this the prowess of someone at the Fourth Stage of the Innate Realm? It was incredible!


    Although Zhongshan''s concealed form didn''t involve the demonic body refinement technique, it possessed its own peculiarities��mysterious, ethereal, elusive, and nimble. These attributes made the effects of his concealed form no less potent than his true form. Except for the abnormality of the Red Phoenix Heaven Scripture, if his true form battled his concealed form, victory would be difficult to determine.


    Zhongshan fought with trepidation, while the youth marveled at his opponent''s abilities. Was Zhongshan even human? Could a human twist his arm outward to wield a sword? And his wrist, it looked as if it had been broken, yet he could still wield his sword?


    Zhongshan managed to turn danger into opportunity each time, forcing the youth into awkward positions with the help of his concealed form.


    However, after a particrly intense exchange, the youth''s eyes widened, and his strength seemed to surge suddenly, as if his sword speed had increased by half in an instant. Zhongshan watched helplessly as he struggled to keep up. He knew the youth must be using secret techniques to stimte his cultivation, but what could he do about it?


    Was he going to lose? The thought shed through Zhongshan''s mind as he faced the youth''s unstoppable sword.


    Lose? This wasn''t just a sparring match; it was a fight to the death!


    Zhongshan refused to ept defeat. Although the youth had secret techniques to boost his strength, Zhongshan had something the youth didn''t��he was more ruthless.


    With a fierce re, Zhongshan faced the youth''s approaching sword, refusing to dodge or evade. He allowed the sword to pierce his chest.


    <i>Szzzz...</i>


    The youth''s longsword pierced through Zhongshan''s left shoulder, blood spurting out as the de passed through. With a single sweep, the youth could sever Zhongshan''s arm.


    A look of astonishment shed across the youth''s face. Zhongshan could have easily blocked the attack, so why didn''t he?


    <i>Szzzz...</i>


    In Zhongshan''s ruthless gaze, the Undying Sword pierced through the youth''s left shoulder. Was this to end in mutual destruction?


    A torrent of blood gushed from the wound, and the youth couldn''t believe that Zhongshan had chosen mutual destruction.


    In the next moment, with just a wave of their hands, they could sever each other''s arms.

 Chapter 84: Astonishing Reversal

    <h4>Chapter 84: Astonishing Reversal</h4>


    <i>Boom!</i>


    <i>Splurt!</i>


    With a deafening roar, Zhongshan spewed a mouthful of blood and was sent flying backward.


    <i>Thud!</i>


    He crashed heavily into the crystal wall, the Undying Sword falling to the ground beside him. Though caught off guard, Zhongshan knew the fight was over. His strategy of mutual destruction, including Chu Jiu in the equation, had served its purpose.


    With both of them critically injured, it was inevitable that Chu Jiu would intervene.


    Sure enough, just as they were about to sever each other''s arms, Chu Jiu rushed into the fray, delivering a palm strike that sent Zhongshan hurtling into the crystal wall.


    Immediately, Chu Jiu supported the youth, who nced at him with some annoyance but refrained from reproaching him. At that moment, Chu Jiu had no choice but to act.


    After lightly tending to his wounds, the youth turned to Zhongshan.


    "You''re strong. The strongest opponent I''ve encountered at the same level. Today''s battle was a draw, but let''s fight again tomorrow. I hope you won''t disappoint me," the youth said, sheathing his sword.


    Zhongshan rose to his feet, a faint smile touching his bloodied lips. "I won''t."


    "I''m Jian Ao. I believe you''ll make a name for yourself in the Divine Land sooner orter. Until we meet again," the youth said earnestly, a rare solemnity in his voice as he revealed his name.


    "Farewell," Zhongshan nodded before stepping through a door and exiting.


    Once outside, Zhongshan, still nursing his injured shoulder, entered another empty room. The spirit stones had been taken, indicating that it had already been visited. Unconcerned, Zhongshan pressed his shoulder and, with a flicker, transformed into a shadow, sinking into the ground and disappearing.


    As Zhongshan left, Jian Ao and Chu Jiu remained behind. Chu Jiu stood guard while Jian Ao took a moment to recuperate before slowly opening his eyes.


    Frowning, Jian Ao turned to Chu Jiu. "What sword technique did Zhongshan use?"


    "I don''t know. But hisprehension might surpass the confines of any known sword technique. He, like the young master, has integrated self-creation, making it impossible to ssify his technique under any specific school," Chu Jiu spected.


    "There are sword techniques in this world that you don''t know," Jian Ao remarked, his tone grave.


    "Indeed, his footwork was equally mysterious. No, it was ghostly. I believe the young master would have a deeper understanding of it," Chu Jiu furrowed his brows.


    "Yes, that ghostly footwork... too..." Jian Ao pondered for a moment, unable to find a suitable term.


    "Young master, would you like me to investigate his background?" Chu Jiu suggested.


    "No need. With such extraordinary talent, he will surely make a name for himself in the future. Today''s victory is uncertain; tomorrow, I will invite him to spar again and witness his growth," Jian Ao decided.


    "Understood," Chu Jiu nodded in agreement.


    On the peak of the mountain, Princess Qianyou surveyed her surroundings. Although A''er hadn''t noticed anything unusual yet, Qianyou herself felt a sense of unease. As Zhongshan emerged from a door, clutching his shoulder, Qianyou''s unease intensified.


    Something wasn''t right��a peculiar sensation.


    Suddenly, Qianyou remembered: Where were the three women who were with Zhongshan? When they first entered the door of the mysterious hall, Zhongshan had made sure not to let go of their hands to avoid separation. But just now, what happened? Did Zhongshan abandon the two women?


    No, it wasn''t abandonment. Since entering that door, the three women hadn''t reappeared from any other door. Disappeared? Why? How could they have disappeared? Why was Zhongshan the only one who emerged within sight?


    Qianyou''s heart skipped a beat. With her intelligence, she quickly pieced together the situation after sensing something was amiss.


    "Oh no, run!" Qianyou suddenly shouted, taking flight, with Water Mirror, Gulin, and the others following closely behind, heading towards a distant door.


    "Uncle," Bei Qingsi said with a hint of sadness.


    "It''s alright, don''t worry. Hurry and take my token, head to the location for the second piece of evidence. As you said, it might be dangerous, and I''m not sure if it''s still there. Go quickly. My old bones are satisfied with the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation," Taixu Zi said to Bei Qingsi.


    "Yes," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    Tianling''er remained silent beside them, looking at Yinn together with Zhongshan.


    Yinn appeared to be in a trance, or perhaps she was in a deep sleep, nestled in Zhongshan''s embrace.


    Taixu Zi turned to look at Yinn. "She just integrated with the Soul Formation and needs time to assimte. She''ll wake up in two hours."


    "Thank you, Senior," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Alright," Taixu Zi nodded.


    At that moment, Taixu Zi waved his hand lightly, and suddenly, another door appeared in front of him. Beyond this doory what seemed to be a forest, bathed in the moonlight, exuding an eerie tranquility.


    "Go on, this door leads directly out of the formation," Taixu Zi said to the group.


    "Thank you," Zhongshan nodded.


    Holding Yinn and leading Ling''er, Zhongshan quickly walked towards the door, with Bei Qingsi following closely behind.


    In that moment, Princess Qianyou and her group suddenly barged in.


    The instant she entered, Princess Qianyou eximed, "Zhongshan!"


    Her cry held an incredulous tone, along with a strong sense of resentment.


    Others, too, looked at Zhongshan and the three women emerging from the door with disbelief written all over their faces. How could this happen?


    With a wave of his hand, Taixu Zi made the door disappear into thin air.


    Zhongshan and the three women vanished right before their eyes?


    At this moment, except for Mister Shuijing, everyone was seething with hatred.


    "That Zhongshan, was he deceiving us all along?" Gu Lin fumed.


    Mister Shuijing shook his head with a sigh. "I''ve always said it''s all luck, anyone could find the Soul Formation."


    Princess Qianyou was now furious. She had developed feelings for Zhongshan and even had A''er take care of him along the way. But this seemingly weak individual, whom she had cared for, had actually deceived everyone.


    This shocking reversal seemed like a mockery of Princess Qianyou''s intelligence.


    "Mr. Shuijing, I have seen Taixu Zi," Mister Shuijing immediately greeted Taixu Zi.


    At this moment, the map of the formation around them had been put away by Taixu Zi, so they couldn''t see where Zhongshan and his group had gone.


    "Mr. Shuijing, the Soul Formation has been passed down, so I''m sorry, but the opportunity has passed," Taixu Zi said with a shake of his head.


    "Old man, why did you give them the Soul Formation?" Gu Lin immediately became angry.


    Hearing Gu Lin''s rudeness, Taixu Zi frowned, a sh of annoyance in his eyes.


    "Silence!" Princess Qianyou immediately scolded Gu Lin.


    Initially filled with hatred towards Zhongshan, she quickly suppressed it. Although everyone wasn''t afraid of Taixu Zi, he was the master of the formation. Knowing that he would die, causing you to die with him was not something Princess Qianyou wanted to see.


    "Mr. Shuijing, please forgive us. Since the Soul Formation has been passed down, we won''t disturb you any longer," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Alright," Taixu Zi nodded with closed eyes.


    Turning around, Princess Qianyou led the group out of the door in a hurry.


    Princess Qianyou was feeling extremely frustrated. For the first time ever, she had suffered such a defeat. No one had dared to make her suffer such a huge loss before, nor had anyone been able to do so.


    Zhongshan? Zhongshan!


    At this moment, Mister Shuijing, from the group, understood the situation that had just happened and shook his feather fan as he walked.


    "Mr. Shuijing, you said that Zhongshan didn''t understand the formation as well as you do. How could he find Taixu Zi''s location on his first attempt? Was he just lucky?" Gu Lin cursed as they walked.


    "No, this man is meticulous in his thinking. It''s not that he doesn''t understand the formation as well as I do; in fact, he might understand it even better. It''s just that he didn''t dare to reveal it because of his low strength. Moreover, appearing at different doorster on also shows his extraordinary intelligence. Faced with the temptation of the Soul Formation, he was able to handle it calmly in front of everyone''s eyes..." Mister Shuijing sighed as he shook his head.


    Mister Shuijing didn''t finish his sentence, because he had seen Princess Qianyou''s unfriendly expression. It was the first time he had seen it.


    Leaving the formation, they flew to the top of a mountain, looking at the sandstorm formation in front of them, then at the mountains, rivers, and streams under the moonlight.


    "Princess, there''s no need to look anymore. This man is meticulous in his actions, and it''s impossible to find him now," Mister Shuijing shook his head.


    "Qianyou, that kid is from the Kaiyang Sect. Let''s go to their doorstep and drag him out. I''ll tear him apart to vent your anger," Gu Lin immediately tried to please her.


    "Shut up. Can you even handle the Kaiyang Sect? If something happens, your father won''t be able to save you. Also, forget about this matter. Don''t think about Zhongshan anymore," Princess Qianyou said.

 Chapter 85: Imperial Decree

    <h4>Chapter 85: Imperial Decree</h4>


    Princess Qianyou''s mood soured, her tone slightly sharp, but the words "Your father won''t be able to protect you" left a deep impression on Gulin. Thinking back on the background of the Kaiyang Sect, Gulin felt a chill in his heart.


    Princess Qianyou gazed in the direction of the Kaiyang Sect, her eyes narrowing as she recalled everything that happened on Zhongshan.


    "Aaahhh~"


    Under the moonlight, a crane''s cry suddenly echoed in the sky. Everyone looked up to see a giant crane flying towards them.


    As the crane approached, furrows appeared on everyone''s brows. Seated atop the crane was a woman in white, as if she were specifically seeking out Princess Qianyou and her group. She swiftly flew to where they were and dismounted from the crane, bowing respectfully to Princess Qianyou.


    "His Majesty has issued a decree, asking Princess Qianyou to return immediately," the woman said, handing a golden decree to Princess Qianyou.


    Princess Qianyou took the decree and nced at it, her eyes freezing for a moment before she tucked it away.


    "Let''s go back," Princess Qianyou said, turning to the others.


    "Yes," they nodded in agreement.


    With the woman leading the way on the crane, they followed closely behind. Princess Qianyou soared into the air, her face still filled with lingering anger towards Zhongshan. She nced at the sandstorm array once more but didn''t look back, swiftly heading southwest.


    As Princess Qianyou departed, in a distant forest, Zhongshan emerged with three women.


    "Let''s move farther away from them," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay," Tianlinger and Beiqingsi nodded.


    Zhongshan continued carrying Yinn and swiftly left with the two women. After walking for about two hours, they stopped in a mountain valley.


    Yinn had already woken up but pretended to still be asleep, allowing Zhongshan to continue carrying her.


    "Are you going to retrieve the second piece of evidence now?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yes, ording to what my uncle said, I must hurry to that ce. I can''t afford any dy," Beiqingsi replied.


    Although she said she couldn''t afford any dy, she still protected Zhongshan on the two-hour journey.


    "Could you do me a favor?" Zhongshan said.


    "Sure, what is it?" Beiqingsi looked at Zhongshan.


    "Take Yinn to the Zhong Mansion in Xuan City, Dukun Country," Zhongshan said, staring at Beiqingsi.


    Beiqingsi bit her lip, clearly considering the importance of retrieving the second piece of evidence. But upon hearing Zhongshan''s request, she nodded earnestly.


    "Yinn, lead the way and go back home quickly," Zhongshan immediately called out, knowing Yinn had already woken up.


    "I don''t want to, I want to go back with Grandpa Uncle," Yinn said, knowing she couldn''t evade the situation and woke up immediately.


    Frowning at Yinn, Zhongshan said, "No, I don''t want to encounter another Miexian person. Let''s go back now, and I''lle backter."


    "But..." Yinn hesitated.


    "Are you not going together?" Beiqingsi asked, obviously having no problem bringing two more people along.


    "No, Ling''er and I have something to do. We''ll trouble you with this," Zhongshan replied.


    "Um, alright," Beiqingsi nodded.


    Although Yinn was somewhat unwilling, under Zhongshan''s forceful insistence, she could onlypromise.


    Seeing Yinn''s pitiful expression, Zhongshan shook his head and whispered to her, "I''ll be back in three days at thetest."


    Upon Zhongshan''s promise, Yinn''s expression immediately brightened, and she nodded vigorously.


    With that, bidding farewell to Beiqingsi and Zhongshan, riding on Beiqingsi''s flying sword, Yinn disappeared into the clouds in the blink of an eye.


    Seeing Yinn leave, Tianlinger suddenly breathed a sigh of relief, but at the same time, she seemed a bit reluctant.


    At the same time, at the former site of the Bamen Mountain, numerous cultivators were frantically running outside because the Bamen Golden Lock Array had malfunctioned.


    Countless sandstorms rose into the sky, causing internal chaos. Under the moonlight, from a distance, Zhongshan and Tianlinger could see the turmoil, with countless sands rushing into the sky, forming a massive ball.


    "Boom~"


    It exploded, and even separated by dozens of mountains, the violent sound could be felt. The sky became chaotic, with heavy rain pouring down, and the moon in the sky seemed to be obscured, rendering the entire sky gloomy.


    "Zhongshan, did Tai Xu Zi die?" Tianlinger looked into the distance, a hint of sigh in her eyes.


    "Yeah," Zhongshan nodded, because he had heard from the conversation between Tai Xu Zi and Beiqingsi earlier that Tai Xu Zi had a death wish.


    "Alright, let them fight over there for the spirit stones. Let''s quickly go get the Thunder Flower and then return to the Zhong Mansion in Xuan City," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay, follow me," Tianlinger immediately led the way.


    In less than a day, Beiqingsi brought Yinn to the Zhong Mansion in Xuan City.


    Upon seeing Zhongshan''s mortal residence, Beiqingsi merely nced at it briefly before swiftly flying away on her sword, heading towards the location of the second piece of evidence.


    Yinn, with a hint of reluctance, headed towards the Zhong Mansion.


    "Miss, you''re back," the steward greeted from afar.


    "Yeah," Yinn replied with a nod and entered the courtyard alone.


    Despite obtaining the Array Spirit, what was there to be happy about when Grandpa Uncle hadn''t returned yet?


    "Yinn, give me that wooden box," a sudden voice came from the corner of the courtyard.


    Hearing this voice, Yinn paused, shaking her head, thinking she was imagining things. But she still turned to look and found that it was indeed Grandpa Uncle. When did hee back? How did he return?


    "Grandpa Uncle!" Yinn eximed excitedly, running towards Zhongshan and hugging his arm tightly.


    "Ssss..." Zhongshan''s mouth twitched.


    Yinn turned her head to see a hole on Zhongshan''s shoulder.


    "Grandpa Uncle, are you injured? How did this happen?" Yinn eximed in shock.


    "It''s nothing, just a superficial wound. I''ll be in seclusion in the secret room for a while, don''t let anyone disturb me," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay," Yinn nodded.


    "Give me the wooden box first," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay," Yinn immediately took off the wooden box from her back and handed it to Zhongshan.


    Inside the wooden box were the Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworms found in the Miexian''s residence.


    Zhongshan smiled faintly as he looked at the wooden box.


    "During my seclusion, no one is allowed to disturb me. Keep an eye on it for me," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay," Yinn nodded immediately, feeling a bit worried but relieved that Grandpa Uncle had returned.


    Zhongshan quickly entered the inner courtyard and went into a secret chamber to recuperate.


    Inside the secret chamber, Zhongshan sat cross-legged, continuously circting his energy to heal his wounds. The Taiyin Scripture swiftly revolved, and he was able to return thanks to Yinn''s assistance. His hidden body turned into a shadow, merging into the darkness of Yinn''s robe, which apanied her back.


    Although it was a hidden body, it could still get injured. The sword strike from Jian Ao had indeed pierced through his shoulder, but as long as he rested for a while, he would bepletely fine.


    As everyone entered the inner courtyard, another steward-like person hurried over.


    "Miss, was that Sir just now?" the steward immediately asked anxiously.


    "Yes. Grandpa Uncle instructed that no one should disturb his rest," Yinn said immediately.


    "What should we do then?" the steward asked anxiously.


    "What happened?" Yinn asked immediately.


    "We received a confidential report. The royal family of Dukun Country has recently been gathering troops, and they might be targeting our Zhong Mansion," the steward said anxiously.


    "Troops at our doorstep?" Yinn furrowed her brows.


    "Yes, although I''m also skeptical, all the signs keep pointing in that direction. The Emperor seems intent on using force against us. I''ve kept the news sealed and haven''t leaked it out," the steward said anxiously.


    Yinn frowned, thinking about the fate of the heads of the four major families and the ancestors of the four major ns. She could imagine the attitude of the royal family, which was already fearful of the existence of the Zhong Mansion, aiming to uproot itpletely, even if it meant deploying arge army.


    "Alright, you''ve done well. However, Grandpa Uncle is in seclusion, and no one is allowed to disturb him. You go gather more information, and as soon as there are any new developments, report them to me immediately. Also,pile a list of the forces that Zhong Mansion can mobilize now, the ones you know of, and send it to me as soon as possible," Yinn ordered immediately. Years of militarymand had made Yinn calm and collected.


    "Yes," the steward nodded immediately.


    The steward knew that besides Sir, this youngdy held the greatest authority in the Zhong Mansion. Even most of Sir''s adopted sons didn''t have as much power as her.

 Chapter 86: Encounter with the Corpse Master

    <h4>Chapter 86: Encounter with the Corpse Master</h4>


    In the depths of a secluded mountain, by the side of a small stream.


    Zhong Shan was applying something to Tian Ling''er''s face. She sat on arge rock, allowing Zhong Shan to smear her face with some sticky tree sap or something simr.


    "Zhong Shan, will this really work?" Tian Ling''er asked, her tone full of doubt as her big eyes widened, unsure of what Zhong Shan was applying to her face.


    Zhong Shan continued his work, meticulouslyparing as he went. "Yes, it will work better this way. This is the final touch. For the next half an hour, don''t touch your face. Let the resin dry."


    "Okay," Tian Ling''er nodded in confusion. She stared at Zhong Shan, her curiosity evident.


    "It''s done," Zhong Shan finally said with satisfaction.


    "Done?" Tian Ling''er eximed with excitement and immediately ran to the stream to see her reflection.


    Upon seeing her reflection in the water, Tian Ling''er''s expression changed drastically.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!" Tian Ling''er screamed in horror, a scream that seemed to pierce the heavens, while Zhong Shan stood by with a satisfied smile on his face.


    After her initial scream, Tian Ling''er instinctively reached to wipe her face.


    "Don''t move!" Zhong Shan quickly warned.


    "No! This is too ugly! Why did you make me look so ugly?" Tian Ling''er cried out in distress.


    Zhong Shan grabbed her delicate wrist and sighed, "Because you''re too beautiful. If we encounter another expert like Miao Xianren, we might not be lucky enough to escape a second time."


    Tian Ling''er was about to struggle, but when Zhong Shan called her beautiful, she froze, seeming very concerned about his opinion.


    "Really?" she asked, her uncertainty showing, but a faint blush appeared on her cheeks.


    "Of course. Do you want to meet another Miao Xianren?" Zhong Shan released her wrist as he spoke.


    With Zhong Shan''s hand gone, Tian Ling''er felt a slight pang of disappointment.


    "No, I don''t," Tian Ling''er shook her head.


    "Then keep it this way. To me, you''re still beautiful. This ugliness is just for others to see," Zhong Shan reassured her.


    "Okay," Tian Ling''er nodded, no longer struggling with her appearance.


    Three dayster, Zhong Shan and the disguised-as-ugly Tian Ling''er stood at the top of a canyon.


    Below, the canyon was shrouded in thick white mist, making it impossible to see the bottom.


    "Are you sure it''s here?" Zhong Shan asked, looking skeptically into the depths below.


    "Of course. There are even my footprints on that rock," Tian Ling''er pointed to arge stone nearby.


    Moving closer, Zhong Shan saw the indentations in the stone, confirming Tian Ling''er''s words.


    "Let''s go down," Zhong Shan nodded in confirmation. He led Tian Ling''er down the slope into the canyon below.


    The mountain path was steep, but with proper preparation, Zhong Shan quickly descended into the valley.


    The valley was somewhat dim, but there were two peculiar sources of light. At the base of the southern and northern cliffs, there were two strange objects emitting a blue glow, each with a diameter of about two meters, resemblingrge lids.


    These lids seemed to be made of a transparent, membranous material, enclosing some unknown substance within. They looked like giant eggs, with most of their mass embedded in the cliffside, leaving only a small portion exposed.


    On the outer side of these giant eggs, a unique flower grew on each. The flowers were face-basin-sized, with only two emerald-like leaves. The stems split into four roots that prated the giant eggs, as if drawing nutrients from them.


    In the center of the basin-sized flowers, the stamens flickered with arcs of electricity, appearing intermittently, giving off an otherworldly aura.


    Lightning Flowers?


    Zhong Shan didn''t need Tian Ling''er to tell him; he could guess the name of the flower from its mystical appearance. But what were those giant eggs? Although Zhong Shan didn''t know what the giant eggs were, he could tell they contained arge amount of lightning energy. The electricity in the stamens of the flowers wasn''t appearing out of nowhere; it had to be absorbed from the energy within the eggs.


    "They hadn''t bloomedst time I was here. Now they have, and we can pick them," Tian Ling''er said excitedly, preparing to leap towards the flowers.


    "Wait," Zhong Shan quickly grabbed her.


    Frowning slightly, Zhong Shan surveyed the strange surroundings.


    Ruins. There were lots of ruins, shattered rocks everywhere in the valley. It looked like there had been an intense battle here before, but the surrounding cliff walls were unscathed, which was unusual.


    "What''s wrong?" Tian Ling''er asked, puzzled.


    "Was it like thisst time? Is there anything else in this valley?" Zhong Shan asked his concerns.


    "No, it was the same asst time. There were no other living creatures," Tian Ling''er replied.


    Still uncertain, Zhong Shan picked up a small stone from the ground and threw it towards the Lightning Flowers.


    "Snap!" The stone suddenly shattered.


    Zhong Shan saw a whip-like object suddenlysh out from the rubble below, shattering the stone with its tip.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan''s pupils constricted. What was that?


    As if to answer Zhong Shan''s question, the ground began to tremble after the stone was shattered.


    "Rumble..."


    The earth shook continuously. Zhong Shan retreated swiftly, while Tian Ling''er flew into the air on her red silk ribbon, watching the ruins below with a vignt expression.


    "Crash..."


    From the ruins, numerous shelled creatures slowly emerged.


    Scorpions, a swarm of venomous scorpions. They were pitch ck, the longest measuring about a meter without their tails, and with their tails, reaching up to ten meters. These scorpions quickly crawled out of the ruins, appearing highly antagonistic towards the intruders. The stone that had shattered earlier wasn''t destroyed by a whip, but by a scorpion''s tail stinger.


    Were these scorpions protecting the Lightning Flowers?


    Zhong Shan was astonished as he observed the crimson stingers of the scorpions.


    "Why are there so many scorpions? There weren''t anyst time!" Tian Ling''er eximed anxiously from the air. The long scorpion tails now guarded the area around the Lightning Flowers, creating an imprable defense.


    "That''s because they feared the aura of the sect leader. When the sect leader released his aura, it suppressed all the scorpions, preventing them from moving or daring to emerge," Zhong Shan exined as he cautiously observed the scorpions, holding his broadsword ready.


    Did these scorpions create the ruins by burrowing through the ground, resulting in this heap of debris?


    "Snap!"


    A scorpion tail suddenlyshed out towards Zhong Shan. The crimson stinger seemed poised to pierce and kill him. Zhong Shan swung his broadsword, striking the scorpion''s tail stinger.


    "ng!"


    With full force, Zhong Shan''s strike severed a scorpion''s tail. The momentum carried his de down onto the scorpion''s head, but with a loud ng, the broadsword rebounded from the tough exoskeleton.


    What a sturdy scorpion shell.


    Despite his amazement, Zhong Shan didn''t dare to rx. Several more scorpions lunged at him.


    Zhong Shan brandished his broadsword, while in midair, Tian Ling''er directed her red silk to assist him.


    Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er were entangled in a fierce battle with the giant scorpions. Meanwhile, at the entrance of the canyon above them, another group of people arrived.


    This group was none other than the followers of Corpse Master, who had recently entered the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation in search of the Nine Dragons Fangtian Jade.


    "Your Majesty, this is the ce. There are two Lightning Flowers in the valley, and they should be mature now. We can take them back to refine the Ascension Pill for the Crown Prince," said a man d in armor, speaking respectfully.


    "Leiting, you spoil the Crown Prince so much that he is now closer to you than to me," the Emperor remarked with a hint of jest.


    "Your Majesty overestimates me. The Crown Prince calls me uncle, so it is natural for me to look after him," the armored man replied, a self-satisfied expression on his face.


    "Haha, well said. We are all family. Let''s go and fetch the Lightning Flowers," the Emperor said with augh, his tone slightly indicating an intention to win over Leiting.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," Leiting responded, somewhat moved.


    Corpse Master stood silently behind them, observing without a word. After the Emperor gave his orders, the group flew towards the canyon, following him.

 Chapter 87: Thunder Scorpions

    <h4>Chapter 87: Thunder Scorpions</h4>


    In the canyon, Zhong Shan was deep in battle. Although he couldn''t quickly deal with the giant scorpions, they weren''t endless. Harvesting the Lightning Flowers would take time, but these scorpions made excellent sparring partners.


    The scorpions weren''t too strong, and Zhong Shan could handle most of them by himself. asionally, the strongest scorpions,parable in strength to Tian Ling''er, required both their efforts to defeat. Zhong Shan noticed that the truly formidable scorpions clustered around the two Lightning Flowers, indicating that the strongest ones were near the flowers. But that was fine; he would deal with these weaker ones first and then figure out a way to handle the stronger ones.


    As the members of the Yin Moon Dynasty flew into the canyon, they heard the sounds of battle below. They frowned, surprised that someone had arrived before them.


    Descending quickly, they saw two individuals below: a fierce man at the fourth stage of Innate Realm and an ugly woman at the tenth stage of Innate Realm. Seeing that the two Lightning Flowers were still intact, they were relieved. The flowers were still there, and that was all that mattered.


    Corpse Master, who was flying on his sword at the rear, narrowed his eyes when he saw Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er on her red silk. Even though Tian Ling''er had disguised herself, Corpse Master recognized the magical artifact. They were the same duo who had disturbed him not long ago.


    A sh of killing intent crossed his eyes, but he seemed to reconsider, his expression turning strange as he nced at Zhong Shan below. His gaze shifted to one of curiosity and expectation, though he concealed it well, maintaining a normal expression.


    "Haha, Your Majesty, just two small fries," the armored general Leitingughed heartily.


    Zhong Shan was in the midst of ying the scorpions when he suddenly heard a coarseugh from above. The sound made his hair stand on end. Something was wrong.


    He quickly retreated towards the cliff, abandoning the scorpions. Tian Ling''er, sensing the formidable presence of the neers, moved close to Zhong Shan, as if to protect him.


    The countless scorpions didn''t pursue Zhong Shan. Instead, they all prostrated themselves on the ground, seemingly suppressed and unable to move.


    As Zhong Shan reached the edge, he finally saw the group clearly. His heart skipped a beat. He recognized them, and they were extraordinarily powerful acquaintances.


    Not only were there several experts at the Nascent Soul stage, but also Corpse Master, the eerie man who controlled zombies. Zhong Shan had thwarted his ns twice, no, three times. Why was it them? How could it be them?


    Panicking, Zhong Shan knew he had to retreat immediately. He hoped these people wouldn''t bother with a small fry like him.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan whispered to Tian Ling''er, swiftly moving away from the group, climbing the cliff rapidly.


    "Trying to escape?" A coldugh echoed from above.


    With a resounding crash, a powerful sword aura sliced through the cliffside that Zhong Shan was climbing, causing the rocks to shatter and sending Zhong Shan plummeting downwards.


    Mid-air, Zhong Shan could have twisted his body to avoid the falling debris and continued his ascent. However, he chose not to, instead grabbing Tian Ling''er and pulling her down with him, preventing her from flying away. They both tumbled down into the valley, their bodies mostly buried under the falling rocks.


    Feigning helplessness, Zhong Shan knew that attempting to escape now would be a certain death sentence. That sword aura just now��if it had struck them directly, not only would he have been killed, but Tian Ling''er would have met the same fate. Their only option now was to y dead and hope for mercy.


    Tian Ling''er, tightly held in Zhong Shan''s embrace, wanted to move, but Zhong Shan''s firm grip and warning look made her stay still. Though uninjured, she remained motionless, understanding the gravity of their situation. She knew the strength of their pursuers; facing them meant certain death unless they followed Zhong Shan''s lead. Despite the tension, Zhong Shan''s embrace offered her a sense offort and courage.


    The sword aura had been unleashed by Leiting, the armored general. Killing the two would have been effortless for him, but Leiting enjoyed ying cat and mouse. However, seeing them now seemingly buried under the rocks dampened his enthusiasm. Was the game over so soon?


    Corpse Master observed Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er with cold, calcting eyes, saying nothing. It was as if he was pondering something or waiting to see if the couple could pull off a miraculous escape.


    The Emperor nced at the two buried figures, instantly recognizing their feigned helplessness. His eyebrows furrowed slightly. To assess the situation so quickly and make the right decision in a split second was no small feat, indicating that these two were far from ordinary. However, theirck of strength rendered their cleverness futile in the face of true power.


    After a brief moment of consideration, the Emperor lost interest in them and turned his gaze back to the two Lightning Flowers.


    "Yes, they are fully mature, and of the highest quality," an advisor behind the Emperor eximed with excitement.


    The moment the voice rang out, Thunder''s gaze immediately shifted to the Thunder Flower. After all, no matter how entertaining two dead mice might be, they couldn''tpare to the allure of a Thunder Flower. Without hesitation, he swiftly flew to the southern valley, his eyes fixed on the enormous bloom, reaching out to seize it.


    "General, be cautious. This Thunder Flower grows on a Thunder Scorpion egg. Taking the flower will surely awaken the scorpion," the Corpse Master suddenly warned.


    "Oh? So this is a Thunder Scorpion?" the Emperor eximed in surprise. General Thunder''s hand froze mid-reach.


    Nodding, the Corpse Master continued, "Thunder Flowers usually grow amidst Thunder mes. This one, however, grows on a Thunder Scorpion egg. Though rare, I have seen it before. Typically, the scorpions within these eggs have at least reached the Nascent Soul stage. The roots of the Thunder Flower are embedded in the egg. If you pull it out, the Thunder mes will burst forth, inevitably waking the Thunder Scorpion. Once awake, the scorpion will attack any non-scorpion life form."


    "Now that you mention it, I think I''ve heard of this before. These scorpion eggs are quite peculiar. They can merge with living beings that touch them, sealing any gaps," Thunder suddenly remarked with interest.


    "Precisely," the Corpse Master confirmed with a nod.


    "Then I must give it a try," Thunder dered with a grin.


    The Thunder Flower had four roots prating the scorpion egg. Thunder gently pulled out one of the roots. Instantly, a torrent of lightning erupted from within, arcs of electricity spraying from the opening, which seemed to be widening with each passing moment, releasing even more electric arcs.


    Thunder pressed his palm lightly against the opening, and it miraculously began to conform to his hand, sealingpletely, with no more lightning escaping.


    "Damn, this tingles! Feels great!" Thunder shouted with delight.


    The Emperor and those behind him looked on in puzzlement.


    "Let me try," another person said, clearly intrigued. In fact, two people stepped forward.


    "Give me your hand," Thunder called out.


    As the two individuals reached out their hands, Thunder loosened his grip on the scorpion egg. With a touch from the neer''s palm, it seamlessly merged with the egg, sealing the opening shut once more.


    Taking advantage of the moment, Thunder swiftly withdrew his hand and pulled out the remaining three roots. The other person and the one who came earlier promptly covered the openings with their palms.


    With four holes and four hands perfectly matched, Thunder examined the Thunder Flower in his hand before stowing it away.


    "Damn it, Thunder, you little rascal, you tricked me! This feels anything butfortable!" the first person toe forward eximed.


    "Haha! Serves you right!" Thunder burst intoughter.


    "Master, what do we do now? Is there any other way to seal it?" the Emperor turned to the Corpse Master.


    "As far as I know, there isn''t. We''ll have to let it out. General Thunder, take the other Thunder Flower, and let''s leave immediately," the Corpse Master replied.


    "No way, no way! This is my first time seeing a Thunder Scorpion. Of course, I want to see what it looks like. They''re just at the Nascent Soul stage. With so many of us here, we can wait a bit longer before taking the flower," General Thunder immediately interjected, cutting off the Corpse Master.


    The Emperor seemed somewhat swayed but did not intervene.


    "Alright, release your hands and step back quickly," Thunder ordered.


    "Okay," the two nodded and swiftly retreated.


    As they stepped back, the four openings suddenly widened, and a plethora of electric arcs gushed out from them, striking the scorpions on the ground. The scorpions trembled violently, some even convulsing from the sudden jolts of electricity.


    Within moments, the fourrge holes intersected, merging into one massive opening, and a deluge of lightning poured out, covering the valley floor as if painting it with electricity. Many scorpions were left dazed and shaking from the shock. Even Zhongshan and Tianling''er, partially buried in the ground, found their hair standing on end from the electricity. But just as quickly as the lightning came, it dissipated, leaving the Thunder Scorpion egg seemingly devoid of any electrical charge.


    From within, a colossal scorpion rapidly emerged.


    The scorpion was a shade of blue, with a body nearly thirty meters long, excluding its enormous tail, which seemed capable of reaching the top of the valley.


    Electricity crackled all over its body, as if it were greatly angered by being disturbed. The tip of its tail emitted snapping sounds, and where its stinger was, there crackled a terrifying purple lightning-like energy.


    Its cold, eerie eyes locked onto the people in the valley.

 Chapter 88: Yin Moon Dynasty

    <h4>Chapter 88: Yin Moon Dynasty</h4>


    "So powerful!" Thunder eximed in shock.


    The Corpse Master quickly flew to the back of the group, given that his strength was the weakest. Four of the Emperor''s guards swiftly formed a protective formation around him. Although the Emperor''s cultivation was not inferior to the Thunder Scorpion, this was a moment for his loyal subjects to show their devotion. Unless absolutely necessary, Emperor Huang Yanjing would not act personally��otherwise, what kind of emperor would he be?


    Zhong Shan, his hair standing on end, twisted his body in the rubble, positioning himself to be as inconspicuous as possible. He couldn''t help but feel a bit grateful for this group''s arrival; if they hadn''te, he and Tian Ling''er would have been the ones provoking the Thunder Scorpion. Given their current strength, they would surely be no match for it.


    With a thunderous crack, the massive scorpion tail swung like a giant whip towards General Thunder, who was closest. The tail''s movement seemed to drag a string of lightning through the air, forming a brilliant electric curtain, full of explosive power.


    Before the tail even reached him, the electricity did. General Thunder squinted his eyes, and with a swift motion, he swung out arge sword. The sword, though blunt, carried the force of thunder, shing against the scorpion tail with a deafening roar. The sword''s qi was incredibly solid, expanding a hundredfold, even a thousandfold, in an instant.


    "Boom!"


    With a tremendous crash, both the scorpion tail and the great sword recoiled. The sh was evenly matched. The scorpion''s tail, incredibly tough, had not been damaged in the slightest. Instead, it discharged even more lightning, its menace undiminished.


    "Watch out for the stinger," the Corpse Master calmly warned.


    As his words fell, the scorpion''s tail twisted in a bizarre arc, and the purple stinger shot towards General Thunder once more.


    "Haha, it''s just a beast," General Thunderughed. He swung his great sword again, this time with all his might. Though the sword didn''t growrger, it became even more solid. From a distance, Zhong Shan could feel the immense pressure, a force that seemed to crush the soul. The aura of heaven''s thunder, ready to obliterate all, radiated from the great sword.


    The Corpse Master sighed softly, shaking his head. He clearly regretted that General Thunder had disregarded his warning.


    General Thunder couldn''t hear the sigh, but the Emperor did. The Emperor, startled by the Corpse Master''s words, knew their significance. While others might disregard the Corpse Master''s warnings due to his low cultivation level, the Emperor understood his origins and knew he never exaggerated. If the Corpse Master said it was dangerous, it meant the situation was extremely perilous.


    With a swift motion, arge ck de appeared in the Emperor''s hand. Ignoring the reactions of his ministers, he swung the de towards the Thunder Scorpion from a distance.


    The de grew to a hundred zhang (about 330 feet) in mid-air, its immense force seemed to sever the very fabric of the heavens and earth. The powerful gusts from the de blew away the surrounding lightning, scattering rocks and sending Zhong Shan, who was holding Tian Ling''er, crashing into a distant cliffside.


    The Thunder Scorpion''s tail moved too quickly. Despite sensing the threat from the Emperor''s de, it continued its assault on General Thunder''s great sword.


    With a sharp "ding," the purple stinger effortlessly pierced through General Thunder''s sword, making a crisp sound.


    Incredible! How could this be possible? The poisonous stinger had actually pierced through his treasured sword. After breaking the de, the purple stinger continued its deadly thrust towards General Thunder, as if it could pierce right through his body and bring him to the brink of death.


    The robust protective barrier in front of General Thunder seemed as fragile as paper at this moment, offering no resistance to the stinger''s attack. Seeing the stinger about to reach him, General Thunder found himself utterly powerless to evade.


    "Boom!"


    With a deafening roar, the Thunder Scorpion was cleaved in two by a massive de that swept through the air. Everything under the de was severed, even leaving a deep chasm in the ground, a testament to the de''s overwhelming power.


    Yin Moon Dynasty��this was the strength of the Emperor of the Yin Moon Dynasty.


    Holding Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shany among the distant ruins, his eyes wide with shock, yet maintaining a calmposure. This was a moment where he needed to stay cool-headed.


    The purple lightning stinger stopped just before General Thunder''s eyes, mere inches from his pupils. General Thunder''s mouth was agape, cold sweat dripping down his face as he slowly stepped back.


    The stinger drooped and slowly slid off the pierced sword, leaving General Thunder with nothing but his sword, now with a gaping hole through it.


    For a moment, silence reigned. General Thunder''s sweat had yet to dry. He had been at the edge of life and death, feeling death''s shadow looming over him in that instant.


    The Emperor had already sheathed his de by the time General Thunder snapped back to reality.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," General Thunder said, still shaken. The danger had been too great; in that crucial moment, the Emperor had saved his life.


    "You should thank the Master. If not for his warning, I wouldn''t have acted," the Emperor replied, crediting the Corpse Master in an attempt to win his favor.


    But the Corpse Master remained unmoved.


    Only then did General Thunder recall the Corpse Master''s earlier warning, "Watch out for the stinger."


    "Thank you, Master," General Thunder said immediately. However, his tonecked genuine gratitude. Perhaps in General Thunder''s mind, the one who truly saved him was still the Emperor, and the Corpse Master had little to do with it, given his mere Golden Core stage cultivation.


    Seeing General Thunder''s disdain towards the Corpse Master due to his low cultivation, the Emperor frowned but said nothing. Sometimes, an emperor must consider his ministers'' feelings to maintain control over them effectively.


    "That was close," the others sighed in relief. It had been a perilous moment. If the Emperor had been even a bitter, today might have marked General Thunder''s death anniversary next year.


    "Master, what about the other Thunder Scorpion egg? How''s the scorpion inside?" the Emperor asked, looking towards the Corpse Master.


    "The Thunder Scorpions are divided into male and female. The one His Majesty just killed was a female. The one in the north is a male, likely even stronger. We should take the Thunder Flower and leave immediately. Thunder Scorpions are deeply emotional creatures. If it sees its mate dead, it will undoubtedly be consumed by rage and seek to perish alongside us," the Corpse Master exined.


    Everyone nodded in agreement, no longer interested in examining the Thunder Scorpions further.


    "Your Majesty, I will retrieve the Thunder Flower and we''ll leave at once," General Thunder said.


    "Wait," the Emperor suddenly directed his gaze towards Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er in the distance, his eyes turning cold.


    Seeing the Emperor''s gaze, Zhong Shan''s heart tightened. Damn, the Emperor harbored killing intent. Despite being insignificant, he and Tian Ling''er were still potential threats that needed to be eliminated.


    "Those two? Your Majesty, let me handle them," General Thunder suggested, seeking to vent his lingering fear as aggression.


    "Uh?" The Emperor looked at General Thunder, understanding his current state of mind, and nodded in agreement.


    Zhong Shan silently vowed revenge. If he survived today, he would repay this enmity a thousandfold. Though resolute, he dared not reveal his thoughts.


    Tian Ling''er, frightened, curled up in Zhong Shan''s arms. Once, she had been able to resist when facing Miao Xianren, but now, confronted with these vicious individuals, she couldn''t muster any resistance. Why were there so many evil people outside the Kaiyang Sect?


    Fortunately, she had Zhong Shan. His embrace was her sanctuary amidst the terror.


    The Corpse Master watched coldly, neither helping nor adding to their plight, as if waiting for something.


    "Whoosh!"


    Suddenly, General Thunder''s palm reached out across the air, pulling Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er towards him. Under the immense power, they were helpless, clinging to each other.


    Zhong Shan despised this feeling of powerlessness, vowing to establish a mighty empire one day, where all would bow to him. Today''s humiliation would be repaid tenfold.


    General Thunderughed heartily, seeing the two embracing. "A pair of lovebirds, eh? Don''t worry, I won''t kill you. Just do one thing for me."


    Zhong Shan had been ready to argue, but hearing this, he stopped. A glimmer of hope? No, it was surely a trap. But as long as they remained alive, he could endure.


    Feigning a hopeful look, Zhong Shan studied General Thunder, memorizing their faces for future retribution.


    "Senior, my wife and I were merely passing by. We saw nothing," Zhong Shan said, his voice trembling with fear.


    "Enough talking. Come here and ce your hands on this," General Thundermanded, pointing to the Thunder Flower.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan quickly pulled Tian Ling''er along.


    "Pop!"


    The four roots were simultaneously extracted.


    "Press," General Thunder ordered.


    "p!"


    Forced by the situation, Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er had no choice but to swiftly ce their hands on the Thunder Scorpion egg.

 Chapter 89: Osmanthus Cake

    <h4>Chapter 89: Osmanthus Cake</h4>


    A loud, continuous buzzing sound filled the air.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhh!"


    Zhong Shan roared. At the moment of contact, a massive surge of electricity flowed through his hands and into his body. His eyes widened in agony, feeling as if he was on the brink of being electrocuted to death.


    The pain was excruciating. His arms went numb almost instantly, the sensation spreading rapidly throughout his body. Zhong Shan wanted to use his Demonic Body Refinement Technique, but he resisted, choosing instead to endure and scream.


    With his willpower, Zhong Shan could have suppressed the urge to scream, but he chose to let it out, not just to alleviate the pain in his arms but to let everyone hear his suffering. Besides, the pain was indeed unbearable.


    Nearby, Tian Ling''er was also trembling violently. The internal currents were so strong that even she couldn''t withstand them, but she gritted her teeth and didn''t make a sound.


    "Hahaha, Your Majesty, let''s go," General Thunderughed.


    Seeing General Thunder''s actions, the onlookers smiled with satisfaction. It was clear that Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er were doomed, and before their deaths, they would endure endless torment from the lightning without being able to escape.


    "Very well," the Emperor nodded in satisfaction.


    On the other side, another person removed the purple lightning needle from the Thunder Scorpion.


    "Let''s move," the Emperormanded.


    He then flew ahead, with everyone following suit. Mr. Corpse gave Zhong Shan onest look, a strange expression shing in his eyes, before he joined the group in leaving swiftly.


    In no time, everyone had flown out of the valley.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan''s screams abruptly stopped. His arms werepletely numb, the pain cutting deep into his heart, but his willpower held firm.


    Tian Ling''er''s arms were also numb. Despite her true energy resisting, it seemed ineffective. Panic filled her eyes, but when she saw Zhong Shan beside her, her initial fear turned into a sense of contentment. Perhaps they would both die here today. Dying together with Zhong Shan didn''t seem so bad after all.


    Zhong Shan watched the departing figures with intense rage in his eyes.


    He didn''t use the Demonic Body Refinement Technique because doing so would leave him extraordinarily weak for a period afterward. He also didn''t release his grip, as doing so would free the Thunder Scorpion, ensuring their deaths.


    Most of the giant scorpions in the valley had been killed by the previous lightning strikes and the overwhelming aura of the powerful warriors. The remaining few quickly fled the valley.


    Zhong Shan''s entire body trembled, but he gritted his teeth and endured. This lightning was nothing to General Thunder and his men, but to Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er, it was a bone-chilling pain.


    Turning to look at Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shan saw the despair in her eyes. It seemed truly over now. Zhong Shan was restrained, and she couldn''t move, her whole body wracked with pain. Would they die?


    Zhong Shan nced at Tian Linger with a pained expression and gritted his teeth, "Let go."


    Tian Linger''s arm was alreadypletely numb, yet she still blocked the entrance of the mucous membrane. Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, a trace of a bitter smile shed in her eyes. She thought Zhong Shan had chosen to abandon her and flee to gain a slim chance of survival. However, with the Thunder Scorpion possessing at least Nascent Soul level strength, how could he possibly escape?


    But seeing Zhong Shan''s resolute demeanor, Tian Linger still nodded. Everything was left to fate. Staying here meant certain death, while running away offered a glimmer of hope.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Tian Linger loosened her arm and swiftly retreated. A torrent of lightning surged out from the entrance, striking the ground and carving a deep ck trench.


    Zhong Shan also let go at the same time, but what made Tian Linger''s mind buzz was Zhong Shan suddenly using his broad back to cover the fourrge holes.


    Covering the four holes with his back?


    The four holes quickly expanded and merged, stopping only when they matched the size of Zhong Shan''s back, seamlessly fusing with it.


    For a moment, Zhong Shan''s body shed with intense electric light, enveloping him in a massive amount of lightning. In an instant, Zhong Shan turned into a being of pure lightning, countless bolts wrapping around him as if he were submerged in an ocean of electricity.


    "Zhong Shan---"


    Realizing what was happening, Tian Linger''s heart ached, and she cried out loudly, tears streaming down her face uncontrobly.


    Seeing Tian Linger reaching out to him, Zhong Shan, enduring the torment of the lightning, roared, "Don''te over!"


    The lightning on Zhong Shan''s body was so intense that even his shout seemed to emit sparks of electricity. Yet, his shout indeed had a deterrent effect, causing Tian Linger to halt.


    Watching Zhong Shan blocking the lightning and giving her the chance to survive, Tian Linger''s heart ached unbearably, far more than the pain from the lightning before. It felt as if her entire heart was shattering.


    At this moment, Tian Linger finally understood how important Zhong Shan was to her. Important enough that she felt willing to die right now if it meant saving him.


    "Linger, don''t cry. Listen, listen to me," Zhong Shan said with difficulty, spitting out threads of lightning as he spoke. Veins bulged on his forehead, making the electric currents crackle even louder around his head.


    However, Tian Linger could only shake her head at this moment, as if she refused to listen. Seeing Zhong Shan in agony seemed to transfer all the pain onto herself.


    "Go back to Kaiyang Sect and find the sect master, bring him to save me. Otherwise, no one can save me," Zhong Shan said with difficulty, his head trembling from the relentless lightning.


    "No, no, let me, let me block the lightning. You go find my father," Tian Linger cried out immediately. At this moment, Tian Linger was willing, even if it meant sacrificing her own life to save Zhong Shan, she seemed to ept it willingly.


    Seeing Tian Linger disobeying, Zhong Shan anxiously shouted, "Quick, hurry!"


    But Tian Linger kept shaking her head, refusing to leave Zhong Shan behind, no matter what. She reached out to grab Zhong Shan.


    "Osmanthus cake," Zhong Shan called out again, enduring the lightning, his eyes fixed on Tian Linger.


    Osmanthus cake? Tian Linger paused, memories from a few months ago flooding back into her mind.


    "The secret code is that whenever I mention it, you must obey me, no matter how reluctant you are. If you don''t, I will return and tell the sect master that you disobeyed me."


    "What''s the point of that? I don''t want to."


    "No, we must agree on this in advance. If what I ask you to do is wrong, you can inform the sect master, and I''ll ept the punishment. But if you don''t agree, we won''t go out."


    "Alright, alright, you''re so naggy. I''ll listen to you."


    "Choose something unique. You like osmanthus cake, so let it be the code. Whenever I say ''osmanthus cake,'' it means I''m very serious, and you must listen to me, no matter what. It''s a must."


    "Alright, alright, osmanthus cake, haha!"


    Those words still echoed in her ears. Back then, the code was just for fun. But every time Zhong Shan said it, it was heartbreaking. Thest time was bad enough, but this time, it was the one phrase Tian Linger least wanted to hear.


    Too cruel! It was too cruel! Tian Linger stared at Zhong Shan, tears streaming down her face. How could he?


    "Osmanthus cake, osmanthus cake, osmanthus cake!" Zhong Shan called out again. Each word crackled with the sound of lightning.


    The crackling of the lightning felt like knives slicing through Tian Linger''s heart, but the repeated "osmanthus cake" was like a thousand-pound boulder crushing her already breaking heart.


    No! No! Tian Linger continued shaking her head, her tears nearly dried up, her heart filled with unbearable pain. Watching Zhong Shan being relentlessly tormented by lightning felt as if she herself was submerged in it.


    "Go!" Zhong Shan roared once more.


    Turning her head, Tian Linger wiped away her tears, stepped on the red silk ribbon, and shot towards the valley entrance. She didn''t look back, she couldn''t, because she knew that if she did, she would never be able to leave.


    Osmanthus cake, osmanthus cake, why is it always osmanthus cake?


    Pushing her true essence to the maximum, Tian Linger sped towards Kaiyang Sect as fast as she could. In this moment, she disregarded her own limits, focusing solely on speed��faster, faster, even faster, racing to Kaiyang Sect. Quick, quick, quick!


    Along the way, it felt as if the entire world hade to a standstill. She couldn''t even sense her own instincts anymore. Tears streamed down her face uncontrobly, but she didn''t care. She had only one thought: Kaiyang Sect is that way. Fly.


    She had never felt this way before, not even when Senior Brother rejected her. Tian Linger was terrified, terrified that Zhong Shan might die because of this. Zhong Shan couldn''t die, he absolutely couldn''t die!


    As Tian Linger streaked across the sky, Zhong Shan continued to endure the excruciating torment of the lightning.


    It hurt, it hurt immensely. Zhong Shan desperately wanted to use the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique, but he didn''t dare. He wanted to pass out, but he kept reminding himself that he couldn''t. If he fainted, he would die. If he fainted, he would never be able to avenge Kuier.


    His strong willpower sustained him, keeping him conscious as he waited for Tian Linger to bring back reinforcements.


    In that situation, it was the only solution, the best and correct choice. Even his hidden body in the Great Kun Kingdom could do nothing but patiently wait in the secret chamber, healing and enduring.


    Waiting for Tian Linger to return as soon as possible.

 Chapter 90: The Azure Luan

    <h4>Chapter 90: The Azure Luan</h4>


    On the eighth day, the eighth day Zhong Shan''s body had been soaking in lightning.


    In Xuan City, within the Zhong Mansion of the Great Kun Kingdom.


    In the hall in front of Zhong Shan''s seclusion chamber, Yinn paced back and forth, her brows tightly knitted, listening to the butler''s report.


    "You say the royal family and the Four Great Families have mobilized an army of 800,000? Is it truly 800,000?" Yinn asked, her tone extremely grave.


    "Yes, 800,000 troops are closing in on Xuan City from all directions. The citizens of Xuan City are in a state of panic," the butler replied, his face filled with worry.


    "How are the defenses in Xuan City?" Yinn inquired.


    "Xuan City is entirely under the control of the Zhong Mansion. All city guards and soldiers obey our orders, but we only have 8,000 soldiers defending the city. This time, however, we face an army of 800,000," the butler said, terror evident on his face.


    "What about our uncles and cousins?" Yinn asked.


    "ording to reports from carrier pigeons, twenty-three young masters have already been assassinated. Those outside the city have been notified to stay vignt and return as soon as possible. Miss, should we still tell them toe back? With the army at our gates, will they dare return?" the butler asked, his face full of concern.


    "Notify them. Have all the young masters return to resist the enemy together. No matter what, once Master Zhong exits seclusion, he will surely turn the tide. Have them return and also help Master Zhong by identifying who is truly worthy of being his adopted sons," Yinn said, her voice icy cold.


    "There are citizens in the city who are afraid and want to flee. What should we do?" the butler asked worriedly.


    "Hmph, enforce martialw throughout the city. Deploy 3,000 soldiers to patrol everywhere. Anyone inciting panic ormitting crimes will be executed on the spot. The citizens of Xuan City owe Master Zhong a great debt. It''s time for them to repay it. No one is allowed to leave the city, and anyone entering must be thoroughly vetted. Except for our uncles, no one else is permitted entry," Yinn dered, her voice filled with murderous intent.


    In front of Zhong Shan, Yinn was always sweet and charming. However, faced with such a critical situation, she transformed into a different person, resembling a generalmanding an army of a million.


    "Yes, Miss," the butler responded immediately.


    The youngdy indeed resembled Master Zhong, equally ruthless and decisive.


    "Also, deploy all the Eight Ox Crossbows. Master Zhong had long established positions for these crossbows throughout Xuan City. Ensure everyone is ready and waiting in three shifts, maintaining peak condition to face any iing threat," Yinn ordered again.


    "Understood," the butler nodded promptly.


    Within the Kaiyang Hall of the Kaiyang Sect, the first-generation disciples��Tianxingzi, Gushuangzi, and Xuanxinzi��stood alongside another woman. d in a green robe, she appeared to be around thirty years old, exceptionally beautiful.


    However, despite her beauty, the woman''s face was filled with rage as she pointed directly at Tianxingzi, as if she wanted to tear him apart alive.


    Faced with the woman''s fury, Tianxingzi disyed an unusualck of anger, instead wearing a look of shame. Gushuangzi, standing beside him, showed a demeanor of indignation, as if she was ready to confront the woman. Meanwhile, Xuanxinzi furrowed her brows, clearly displeased with the woman''s mockery of the sect master.


    The woman''s face twisted with anger as she continued to point at Tianxingzi, her expression filled with resentment. "Tianxingzi, what else do you have to say? Back then, my sister ignored our parents'' strong opposition, even betrayed our family and n, just to follow a useless coward like you. Do you have any idea how much my sister sacrificed for you? Why wasn''t it you who died instead of my sister? Why are you still alive? How did you protect my sister? Do you think you can redeem yourself just because you''ve aged a bit? How did my sister be so blind to fall for you?"


    The woman angrily used Tianxingzi, as if demanding him to atone for his sins with his life.


    Unable to tolerate any longer, Gushuangzi finally spoke up. "Enough! It''s been eleven days, and you''ve been berating the sect master every single day. Do you feel satisfied? Yes, the sect master''s wife is dead, but you''ve been informed of the circumstances. The sect master''s wife died willingly, died content, for the sake of the sect master. Have these years been easy for the sect master? Was his aging intentional? If it wasn''t for the sect master''s wife''s dying wish for him to live well, could he still be alive? Could he have raised Ling''er?"


    Upon hearing Gushuangzi''s words, the woman''s eyes widened, holding back her breath, her anger reaching its peak.


    "Sister, please stop. She''s right. I should have died long ago. I should have gone to find Wuyou," Tianxingzi said, tears of deep sorrow streaming down his cheeks.


    "Brother, it wasn''t your fault back then. You should continue living and avenge Nie Wuyou in the future," Xuanxinzi gently interjected.


    "Avenge? How can I avenge when I don''t even know who that person is?" Tianxingzi said, his voice tinged with madness.


    Seeing Tianxingzi''s reaction, she understood his circumstances back then. However, regardless of the rity, the fact remained that her dearest sister had died decades ago, and her dying wish was for Tianxingzi not to inform the family. She entrusted her life to Tianxingzi, but he failed to protect her.


    "I''m asking you, where is Ling''er? If you couldn''t protect my sister, are you going to let Ling''er face danger as well?" the woman demanded angrily.


    "Ling''er, I entrusted her to someone reliable. With him around, she''ll be safe," Tianxingzi replied promptly.


    "Someone reliable? Who? What''s his cultivation level? Is it Tian Sha?" the woman pressed on.


    "Not Tian Sha. It''s a newly promoted disciple named Zhong Shan, at the Third Level of Innate Realm," Tianxingzi exined.


    "Third Level of Innate Realm? You call that reliable? Have you ever cared about Ling''er? Ridiculous, utterly ridiculous!" the woman shouted in anger.


    "I said Ling''er is safe, so she must be safe!" Tianxingzi suddenly raised his voice, as if he couldn''t contain himself anymore, or perhaps the woman''s words had touched a nerve.


    "Dad~~~~~~"


    Outside the Kaiyang Hall, suddenly came the sound of Tian Ling''er''s crying. It sounded so weary, so desperate.


    Hearing this, Tianxingzi was shocked. Without even bidding farewell to the others, he swiftly flew out.


    How could this be? Why is Ling''er making such a sound? She must be extremely weak and exhausted.


    Gushuangzi and Xuanxinzi also dashed out, while the woman seemed to realize who was calling out and swiftly followed.


    The moment Tianxingzi exited the hall, he saw a disheveled figure, hair unkempt, face dirty. The previous lightning strikes and crying had caused Zhong Shan''s disguise gel to dissolve, making his face appear dirty and nothing like its original porcin doll-like beauty.


    However, Tianxingzi still recognized Tian Ling''er at a nce. Oh God, how could Ling''er end up like this? Why is she so disheveled? Her entire body''s vital energy is on the verge of depletion. How could this happen?


    Tianxingzi rushed forward to hold Tian Ling''er, pouring his vital energy into her body, and quickly took out a pill to put into her mouth.


    Zhong Shan? What has he done?


    The girl in green saw Tianling''er in such a sorry state, and her heart tightened. Was this really her niece? How did thingse to this? Goodness, how could Tianxingzi bring Ling''er like this?


    Ling''er pushed away the medicine Tianxingzi held out and immediately said, "Quick, quick, save Zhongshan, hurry!"


    Tianling''er cried while shouting desperately. It seemed like every moment spent taking a pill would dy saving Zhongshan.


    "Zhongshan? Take this pill first, then slowly tell me." Tianxingzi urged anxiously. How did his daughter be like this? What happened?


    "No, don''t, hurry, in that valley with thunderflowers, quick, dad, save Zhongshan, please, save Zhongshan quickly." Tianling''er refused to take the medicine, continuously pleading.


    "Alright, you stay here to recover. Junior sister, take care of Ling''er. I''ll go find Zhongshan." Tianxingzi didn''t hesitate at all,pletely disregarding what exactly had happened. He was distressed about his daughter and didn''t dwell on it further.


    "No, don''t, I want to go too, I want to go too. If Zhongshan dies, I... I don''t want to live anymore." Ling''er immediately cried out.


    At this moment, everyone knew the situation was dire. Regardless of what had happened, they had to go to the ce Ling''er mentioned as soon as possible.


    "Let''s go." Tianxingzi carried Ling''er and was about to fly out of Kaiyang Sect.


    Widow Zi and Xuanxinzi naturally followed.


    The girl in green, witnessing this scene, felt a tug at her heart. This was her sister''s daughter, how did she end up like this?


    As everyone flew out of the Kaiyang Sect''s grand array, the girl in green suddenly called out to the sky, "Qing''er."


    "Hummm~~~"


    Suddenly, a melodious and piercing cry came from the sky, followed by a ck dot rapidly flying towards them, arriving in front of everyone in an instant.


    Qingluan, a huge Qingluan, hundreds of zhang in length, incredibly vast, was exactly the one Zhongshan''s group saw before entering the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation.


    "Get on, Qing''er is faster than all of you." The girl in green immediately called out.


    Tianxingzi didn''t hesitate, quickly stepping onto Qingluan''s back.


    "Qing''er, this matter is extremely urgent, I''m counting on you." The girl in green said.


    "Yes, rest assured." Qingluan unexpectedly spoke.


    Then, guided by Tianxingzi, they swiftly shot off in one direction.


    At this moment, Tianling''er seemed to finally see the girl in green. With a quick nce, she couldn''t help but softly call out, "Mother, is that you?"

 Chapter 91: Siege

    <h4>Chapter 91: Siege</h4>


    "Mother, is that you?"


    Tianling''er''s subconscious question made the girl in green''s nose tingle with emotion.


    "I''m your aunt, Nie Qingqing." The girl in green quickly wiped the dirty grease off Ling''er''s face.


    Tianxingzi, leading the way ahead, also felt a pang in his heart.


    "Ling''er, take this pill first, we''re almost at that valley." Tianxingzi immediately took out the pill again.


    This time, Tianling''er didn''t resist. Instead, she opened her mouth and swallowed it down. But, she didn''t close her eyes to rest, as if she feared dying seeing Zhongshan as soon as she took a breath.


    Seeing her daughter like this, Tianxingzi could only press his hand on Tianling''er''s back to help her digest the pill.


    Tianling''er''s condition improved significantly.


    Normally, seeing this aunt should have been very exciting, but at this moment, there was no excitement at all. Since she wasn''t her mother, there was no ripple in her heart. Now, the most important thing was Zhongshan. Zhongshan, please be safe!


    Tianling''er''s tears were almost dried up, allowing Nie Qingqing to wash her face without any reaction.


    Seeing Tianling''er like this, Tianxingzi felt even more heartache.


    On the eighth day, Zhongshan, in his original form, endured the constant immersion of lightning in the Scorpio Valley.


    Gritting his teeth, Zhongshan endured. Eight days without food, even if one ate every day, it would be unbearable for most. Electricity surged through his body, a torrent of currents.


    Yet, amidst the torment, Zhongshan sensed a subtle change in his true qi. It was refined once again, even though the quantity had diminished greatly. Still, that tiny bit of true qi was purer than before.


    Fortune hides within misfortune, misfortune lurks within fortune. Although Zhongshan endured inhuman torture, as long as he persevered, there would surely be unexpected gains.


    But how much longer could he endure? On the eighth day, Zhongshan''s eyelids grew heavy, and his mind was flooded with illusions. Just as he was about to close his eyes, memories from the past flooded into his mind.


    "Master, the sunlight is beautiful today. It''s been a while since we went to Cui Lake for a pic. This time, I''ll definitely catch a big crab and make crab soup for you."


    "Good, catch a big crab. This time, our whole family will go together. We''ll also call your younger brother to join us."


    "Yes, we''ll call Second Brother. Third Brother isn''t aroundtely; otherwise, he''s the best at catching crabs."


    "Haha, haha, Master,e quickly! There''s a huge crab here, it''s massive!"


    "I''ming, Kui''er, wait for me. I''ll get a big."


    In Zhongshan''s illusions, the beautiful woman appeared repeatedly. She was his first wife, Kui''er. For a moment, Zhongshan seemed to cken, a faint smile ying at the corners of his mouth amidst the pain, as if he were about to give up resistance.


    Just then, the illusions abruptly changed.


    By theke, Kui''er rolled up her sleeves, using a fork to stab at arge crab, while Zhongshan ran towards her from a distance.


    Suddenly, a group of people descended from the sky between them.


    "Haha, we''ve found her, the woman of the Yin year, Yin month, Yin hour," a man in golden robes, with a fissure on his forehead as if hiding a third eye within,ughed heartily.


    The man reached out his hand towards Kui''er.


    Boom!


    A rain of blood filled the sky as Kui''er''s delicate body exploded into countless pieces, flesh and blood scattering everywhere, turning into dust in the blink of an eye. Amidst thepression of energy by the man in golden robes, where Kui''er had exploded, a blue silhouette of Kui''er suddenly appeared, only to be grabbed by the man and sent into the ck g held in his other hand.


    "No!"


    Wrapped in residual lightning, Zhongshan suddenly widened his eyes, filled with a hatred as if to annihte heaven and earth, roaring loudly.


    Veins bulged on Zhongshan''s body as thest remnants of his true qi surged continuously, rotating within his body. He even tried to assimte these currents with his powerful will.


    "I cannot die! I cannot die! Li Tian, Kui''er, Kui''er, I have not yet avenged Kui''er."


    With bloodshot eyes, Zhongshan''s body trembled incessantly, shaking and resisting the lightning''s assault with sheer willpower.


    I cannot die! I cannot die! This was Zhongshan''s only thought now.


    "Zhongshan!"


    Just as Zhongshan''s entire body seemed to verge on madness, a strong shout from Tianling suddenly echoed above the valley.


    Watching a giant azure phoenix swiftly descending from the sky, along with a group of people on its back, a faint smile appeared on Zhongshan''s lips.


    Buzz!


    Zhongshan finally closed his eyes. At thest moment, he lost consciousness as his eyelids shut.


    At that moment, Tianxingzi waved his hand and summoned Zhongshan.


    "Zhongshan!"


    Tianling rushed to Zhongshan, embracing him tightly, despite the lingering lightning on his body.


    Even though Zhongshan had left the Thunder Scorpion Egg, electricity still crackled around him. But Tianling didn''t care; she just wanted to hold Zhongshan with all her strength.


    Tianxingzi grabbed Zhongshan''s arm and with a press, the lightning dissipated.


    "He''s fine, just unconscious. He''ll be fine in a few days," Tianxingzi reassured Tianling immediately.


    "Is Zhongshan okay?" Tianling asked tearfully, her eyes filled with joy.


    "Yes, he''s fine," Tianxingzi nodded.


    Meanwhile, without Zhongshan, lightning burst out from the Thunder Scorpion Egg. Quickly, arger scorpion crawled out from within the mountain walls. As soon as the giant Thunder Scorpion emerged, it saw the female Thunder Scorpion dead nearby and immediately unleashed its fury. Its enormous tail stabbed towards the azure phoenix.


    "Yin~"


    The azure phoenix let out a long cry, a hint of anger shing in its eyes.


    The giant azure phoenix''s w stomped fiercely on the tail of the giant scorpion, emitting a faint blue light, preventing the tail from moving.


    The giant azure phoenix''s head pecked towards the giant scorpion.


    Thump, thump, thump.


    As if the lightning from the Thunder Scorpion was useless against the azure phoenix, the azure light emanating from the phoenix''s beak pecked several times, gradually dispersing the lightning on the scorpion''s body.


    Dead, the Thunder Scorpion encountered its natural enemy.


    Xuanxinzi took the scorpion''s tail sting.


    "Qing''er, let''s go back," Nie Qingqing said.


    "Alright." Qing''er nodded, then plucked something resembling a dan from the Thunder Scorpion''s body and swallowed it, before speaking.


    Disregarding the dead female Thunder Scorpion, the giant wings spread out, carrying everyone towards the direction of Kaiyang Sect once again.


    However, Tianling continued to hold Zhongshan''s hand tightly, refusing to let go. Tianxingzi fed Zhongshan some pills, waiting for him to regain consciousness.


    As Zhongshan fell into aa, his hidden form also dispersed abruptly within the Zhong Mansion of Xuan City in the Great Kun Kingdom, seemingly disappearing into thin air.


    The hidden form was like an external projection from afar. When the main body was unconscious and unaware, the hidden form vanished as well, only to reappear when the main body regained consciousness.


    At this moment, while Zhongshan was unconscious, a tense atmosphere enveloped Xuan City.


    Eight hundred thousand troops encircled the city,ying siege to it.


    The Emperor of Great Kun Kingdom, Su Zhengde, personally led the army.


    With the city surrounded and all entrances blocked, nobody was allowed in, only out.


    In the southern camp.


    Inside thergest tent, twelve figures were gathered.


    One sat at the head, while eleven sat below. The Emperor Su Zhengde, dressed in imperial robes, sat below without the slightest hint of resentment, gazing at the person sitting at the head.


    "Ancestors, the Zhao, Qian, Sun, and Li families each have two innate masters. Our royal Su family, including me, my father, and Duke Wei, have eleven innate masters. Together with you, our ancestor, who has reached the pinnacle of the innate realm, we will surely take Xuan City this time," Su Zhengde spoke.


    The one sitting at the head was the ancestor of the royal Su family, a practitioner of immortal cultivation.


    "From thest encounter, we underestimated Zhongshan. What does it matter if we have twelve innate masters here? Last time, we also had the heads of the four major families and their ancestors. Didn''t they disappear just like that?" the head ancestor spoke.


    "Ancestors,st time there was outside help, someone named Zhao Suoxiang, and a woman in red. But they are no longer in Zhong Mansion. Now, only Zhongshan''s remaining disciples are there," Su Zhengde said.


    "Zhengde, you are now the emperor. What do you think we should do?" the leading ancestor asked.


    "I, I think we, the innate powerhouses, should go to the city gates, break them open, and then the army will rush into the Zhong Mansion. We''ll wipe out everything in one fell swoop," Su Zhengde immediately said, changing his usual usage of ''we'' to ''I''.


    Hearing Su Zhengde''s words, everyone nodded, thinking it feasible. However, one person beside Su Zhengde shook his head.


    "Lianxian, you are Zhengde''s father and have also had dealings with Zhongshan. Do you think this n will work?" the leading ancestor turned to the man sitting beside Su Zhengde.


    That man sat there with an imposing air, shaking his head. "Granduncle, I believe this n won''t work. I know Zhongshan very well. Xuan City has already been fortified by him. Haven''t you noticed the walls are much higher now?"


    "So what?" asked another person nearby. After all, even if the walls were higher, could they withstand these innate masters?


    "I suspect that by now, ballistae have been set up around the city walls. Unless we all attack in the same direction, and someone is willing to sacrifice themselves to assist others in entering the city, I''m afraid it won''t work," Su Lianxian frowned.


    Ballistae? The innate masters shuddered. They had no way to resist such siege weapons, especially when entering the city without the ability to leap through the air. If the arrows were shot at them during this moment, they would be doomed. Moreover, the news they received not long ago was that the heads of the four families and their ancestors fell under these ballistae.

 Chapter 92: You Rascal

    <h4>Chapter 92: You Rascal</h4>


    "Lianxian, do you have any good suggestions?" the head ancestor asked Lianxian.


    "Surrounding the city today is a good method. We wait! Xuan City has water, so we''ll cut off their food supply and see how long they can hold out. At the same time, during the day, we''ll send people to verbally abuse the defenders, wearing them down. Then at night, we''ll have archers shoot ten thousand surrender notes into the city, sowing discord among the popce. We''ll incite internal turmoil while simultaneously rousing public anger. The people''s hearts can be swayed!" Lianxian thought for a moment, his face filled with confidence.


    "Good, good, using the people''s hearts. Surrounding without attacking. Even if Zhong Mansion remains unyielding, the citizens won''t endure it for long. Once they can''t take it anymore, as long as someone incites them, the people will demand to leave the city, even sparking a rebellion from within. Even if we don''t breach Zhong Mansion, people will leave the city, leading to its copse. Then, with eight hundred thousand troops inside, even if we have to use human lives, we can fill Zhongshan''s ce." The head ancestor nodded approvingly, smiling.


    Everyone nodded in agreement, while Wei Gonggong from the Su family''s side couldn''t help but narrow his eyes, nodding along with the others.


    Outside the city, the enemy forces pressed on, while within the city, conflicts arose in the Zhong Mansion.


    Outside Zhongshan''s secluded courtyard, arge number of archers were arranged around by Yinn, who red angrily at the twenty-odd people before her.


    These twenty-odd individuals were all gorgeously dressed, but their expressions varied. Some were more aggressive, shouting at Yinn, while others echoed their sentiments, following the crowd. Of course, there were also those who remained silent, observing with cold eyes.


    "Yinn, who do you think you are to block us here? You''re just your foster grandfather''s granddaughter, and we are your uncles and uncles. What are you trying to do?" A fat man at the front angrily shouted.


    "It''s urgent now. Except for those of us who have returned, all our brothers have already died. Do you want to wait for the army to breach the city?" Another more aggressive man shouted.


    "Listen up, uncles, you''re going to hear this again. Granduncle is currently in seclusion. He instructed before closing off that no one is to disturb him. No one. Who dares to defy? Furthermore, you should all know that except for Granduncle''s permission, no one is allowed to step foot in this courtyard. Do you all want to disobey Granduncle''s orders?" Yinn stared at the group of uncles, her eyes sharp.


    "It depends on the situation. With the army pressing in and the survival of Zhong Mansion at stake, what rules are there to talk about now? Foster father doesn''t understand the current situation, otherwise, he would definitelye out. You''re being foolishly loyal. Not only are you dying foster father''s judgment, but you''re also leading us to our deaths." The fat man shouted angrily again.


    "Hmph, foolishly loyal? Foster father wants loyalty. I''ll say it again, if anyone dares to step over that line, don''t me me for being rude." A trace of hostility shed in Yinn''s eyes.


    "Rude? You little brat, I''ve watched you grow up. What''s wrong? You''ve received favor from foster father, so now you''re arrogant?" The fat man said again.


    "Archers, prepare. Anyone who dares to step over that line, shoot," Yinn said ruthlessly. Even though these were her foster grandfather''s disciples, Yinn showed no mercy. For her foster grandfather, Yinn was willing to bear the usation of killing her uncles and elders.


    "I''d like to see who dares? Steward, whose side are you on?" the fat man said fiercely.


    The steward shook his head, looking at the fat man with a pained expression. "Young master, you should listen to Miss. Master instructed that no one is to disturb."


    "Hmph, that''s because you didn''t inform foster father that the enemy was near. This conflict is entirely because of your ipetence. If foster father knew, would he still be in seclusion now? We''ve broken through this door today. Let''s see who dares to shoot me," the fat man said angrily.


    Taking a step forward, he crossed that line. The archers were hesitant, unsure whether to shoot or not.


    Seeing their hesitation, the fat man became even more pleased. Behind him, some others also crossed the line, walking over. Now, the archers dared not shoot.


    Yinn looked at the uncles who crossed the forbidden line with even greater anger. These archers were unreliable now.


    "Swish~~~" Yinn quickly drew out a precious sword, blocking the entrance to the courtyard.


    "No one is allowed to enter," Yinn shouted again.


    "Swish, swish, swish."


    Following the fat man, two more people drew their swords, pointing them at Yinn together.


    "Yinn, step aside quickly. This is a matter of life and death for Zhong Mansion. It''s not child''s y. Step aside quickly, or don''t me your uncles for being heartless," the fat man said coldly.


    "Yinn, we''re speaking so loudly. Foster father should have heard us by now. Has something happened to foster father? Why hasn''t foster fathere out? We must go in today."


    "With me here, no one is allowed to enter," Yinn said coldly again, her long sword pointing directly at these former uncles.


    Tensions were high, ready to explode. Outside Zhongshan''s secluded courtyard, a suffocating atmosphere seemed to make everyone struggle to breathe. Yinn stared at this group of people, her long sword poised as if they were about to engage in a life-or-death struggle.


    The situation was extremely tense!


    "The young master is back! The young master is back!" Suddenly, from afar, came a long cry, filled with joy.


    The young master? Which young master?


    Yinn paused at first, then her face lit up with joy. Among the disciples, the fat man''s expression changed, and the others had various expressions.


    The young master? Zhong Tian, the eldest son of the Zhong family who had disappeared suddenly over a year ago, besides Zhong Shan, he held the highest authority in the Zhong family. He was the eldest among all the foster children��Zhong Tian.


    Zhong Tian had just entered the city today and had seen the eighty thousand troops outside. Something major was happening in the Zhong family.


    Without hesitation, he hurried toward the Zhong mansion. When he arrived at the mansion''s gate, he saw that all the hidden guards around the Zhong mansion had been deployed. It was certain that something significant had happened.


    A steward stood at the gate and immediately recognized Zhong Tian, despite his much younger appearance. "Young master," the steward eximed with joy. The guards at the gate naturally dared not stop him.


    "What''s going on at home?" Zhong Tian furrowed his brow.


    "Hurry, hurry, Miss Yinn and the young masters are about to fight in front of Master''s seclusion courtyard," the steward quickly exined.


    "What''s happening?" Zhong Tian asked as he walked.


    The steward dared not conceal anything and quickly recounted what had happened.


    When Zhong Tian arrived at the courtyard, he saw a tense standoff. The steward''s shout startled everyone.


    "What the hell are you guys doing?" Zhong Tian roared angrily, ring at the group.


    "Big brother! Big brother!" The young masters immediately called out timidly. Obviously, besides Zhong Shan, no one in the Zhong family had as much prestige as Zhong Tian. Not even Yinn had this authority.


    "Do you not know where this is? Who gave you the courage to dare intrude into the forbidden courtyard?" Zhong Tian red at them angrily.


    "Big brother, you''re back," Yinn immediately eximed.


    Turning his head to look at Yinn, Zhong Tian pondered for a moment in his memory, finally confirming that she was indeed Yinn. After all, when he hadst seen her, she was just a teenager.


    "So, you''re Yinn? Well done this time," Zhong Tian said immediately.


    "Mm," Yinn nodded, without much joy. After all, nothing mattered without her foster grandfathering out.


    "Big brother, the Zhong family''s survival is at stake now. With foster father absent, we had no choice," the fat man hurriedly stepped forward and said.


    "No choice? Hmph, didn''t foster father instruct you that even if the sky were to fall, no one is allowed to enter this forbidden courtyard? Reflect on yourselves, and in half an hour, everyone is to gather at the ''Yn Hall,''" Zhong Tian said sternly.


    "Yes, big brother," the young masters could only nod in agreement.


    After everyone had left, Zhong Tian looked at Yinn and smiled gently. "It''s been over a decade, and Yinn has be such a youngdy. If you hadn''t called me, I might not have recognized you."


    "Yes, I''ve slowly grown older, while Uncle and Foster Grandfather seem to be getting younger," Yinn immediately replied with a smile. Since Zhong Tian had spoken so, it meant he was on her side, so naturally, they were much closer now.


    "Is Foster Father okay now?" Zhong Tian nced at the courtyard behind Yinn and asked.


    "Foster Grandfather has some minor external injuries and is currently recuperating. He instructed that no one should disturb him," Yinn nodded.


    "Okay, you did well earlier. Follow me to Yn Hallter. Now, tell me what exactly happened. I''ve just returned and there are many things I don''t understand," Zhong Tian said.


    "Alright," Yinn agreed.


    Zhong Tian nodded and then looked at the archers around. "Remember, if anyone elsees, whether it''s a young master or even me, if anyone crosses this line, shoot them. No one will me you. If you fail to stop intruders, it will be considered neglect of duty ording to the rules of the Zhong family."


    "Yes," the archers replied obediently, understanding the seriousness of their duty now that they had received orders from the young master. Who would dare hesitate anymore?

 Chapter 93: Selection

    <h4>Chapter 93: Selection</h4>


    Half an hourter, in the Zhong residence, Yn Hall.


    Yn Hall was a grand reception hall with tworge high-backed chairs at the top, and two rows of chairs on each side stretching all the way to the entrance.


    Apart from Zhong Tian, there were twenty-three young masters who had been waiting in the hall. Upon their arrival, they took their seats in the two rows of chairs at the bottom, leaving the two high-backed chairs at the top empty.


    The young masters conversed with each other, discussing the severity of the situation and brainstorming countermeasures. Some sighed in frustration, some remained silent, and others were noisy, but the overall atmosphere was quite chaotic.


    At this moment, Zhong Tian and Yinn walked into the hall. As soon as Zhong Tian entered, most of the young masters stood up.


    "Big Brother!" They called out anxiously.


    However, Zhong Tian walked calmly to the top of the hall.


    Looking at the seat on the left, Zhong Tian didn''t take it. Instead, he sat in the seat on the right.


    Because the seat on the left was reserved for Zhong Shan. Only Zhong Shan could sit there, and no one dared to upy it, not even Zhong Tian, the eldest son.


    "Big Brother, with the eighty thousand troops outside, what should we do?" one young master asked anxiously.


    "Yes, our Zhong family was once just a merchant family, but now with the army at our doorstep, what should we do?" another chimed in.


    ...


    Zhong Tian looked at these young masters. If it were two years ago, Zhong Tian would have guided them, but after the Longmen Valley incident over a year ago, Zhong Tian understood something. Some people benefited from Zhong Shan''s kindness but didn''t necessarily appreciate it, taking everything for granted. Before great gains or great dangers, they might forget their gratitude.


    Just like eight days ago when Yinn asked all the young masters toe back, but some, in the face of imminent danger, actually defected to the court.


    What Zhong Tian wanted to do now was to find people who truly regarded Zhong Shan as family, just like he did. And if Zhong Shan were here, he would probably have the same mindset!


    "Stop the noise and sit down," Zhong Tian said sternly.


    Under themand of Zhong Tian''s single sentence, everyone fell silent immediately, settling down together. Of course, some had been seated from the beginning.


    Even Ying Lan took a seat in front of a grandmaster chair.


    At this moment, the stout man immediately spoke up, "Big Brother, in this expedition to Xuan Cheng, we only have eight thousand city defenders, while Da Kun Nation has amassed an army of eight hundred thousand. If they besiege us for some time, we''ll be cut off from food and firewood. How will themon people survive? Our Zhong Mansion won''t hold out for long either."


    "Yeah, Big Brother, what else can we do? Hold out until the end?" another person anxiously inquired.


    "Well, we''re all brothers here. Some situations I''ve just learned about myself. Ying Lan was nning to keep it from you, but I can''t." Zhong Tian suddenly spoke up.


    With Zhong Tian''s words, the expressions of the young masters all froze, turning to Zhong Tian together. Indeed, their true brother was still their elder brother; Ying Lan was after all one generation apart.


    Zhong Tian noticed the expressions of the young masters.


    "Firstly, our adoptive father is severely injured and still recuperating. That''s why he didn''te out earlier when he heard your quarrels," Zhong Tian addressed the young masters.


    Hearing this, the group became worried, some with a hint of realization as if they had received significant news.


    "Secondly, among the enemy''s army, the royal Su family and the four major ns have dispatched all their innate experts. There are a total of twelve innate experts, one of whom is the ancestor of the Su family, a pinnacle innate master," Zhong Tian continued.


    Ying Lan remained silent on the side because Zhong Tian had already informed her earlier to seek the most trustworthy individuals for their uncle. With treacherous hearts, for the future establishment of the country and pacification of the world, internal discord must be avoided at all costs. They must stand united with Zhong Shan, their adoptive father, even if there were disagreements among the adoptive sons.


    "How could this be?"


    "Twelve innate experts?"


    "Thest time, when the four n leaders attacked, there were only eight innate experts, right? And four of them were pinnacle innate masters. Didn''t adoptive father manage to handle it?" the stout man interjected again.


    "Just now, I heard Ying Lan say that time, adoptive father sought two powerful external aids, and there was also the surprise use of the Eight Ox Crossbows, which ultimately led to victory. But now, the external aids have left, adoptive father is injured, and it''s only us. Moreover, the twelve innate experts will only appear at the most critical moments; they intend to use the lives of the eight hundred thousand army to fill our Zhong Mansion," Zhong Tian furrowed his brows with concern.


    "How could this be? If adoptive father doesn''t recover soon, what are we going to do? Fight to the end? By then, we''ll only end up dead. If adoptive father wasn''t injured, he might have surrendered, right?" one of the young masters suddenly expressed fear.


    And this fear seemed to trigger a chain reaction, spreading overwhelming fear among the other young masters.


    "Zhong Jin." Zhong Tian suddenly red angrily at the person who had just spoken.


    Under Zhong Tian''s re, Zhong Jin trembled.


    Zhong Tian stared at him for a while, then scanned the people in the hall before slowly speaking, "Zhong Jin, and all of you present here, listen to me. You were all beggars on the roadside before, or were about to be beggars. With families ruined and lives on the line, it was our adoptive father who gave you a meal to eat, taught you vast knowledge, and bestowed upon you wealth and luxury for a lifetime. Everything you have is from our adoptive father. Remember this."


    With a single re from Zhong Tian, the young masters immediately fell silent. Zhong Tian was giving them onest psychological encouragement, urging them to remember the affection they shared with Zhong Shan.


    "Yes, there are indeed eight hundred thousand troops outside, and our Zhong Mansion will surely be overwhelmed. We will face death, but we still have family ties and our adoptive father. Our adoptive father has raised us for decades, provided for us for decades. In this final hour, can we not share his hardships together?" Zhong Tian spoke again.


    "The four n leaders died at the hands of our adoptive father. Those outside wish nothing more than to tear our adoptive father apart. There will be no mercy. So, what we face is all-out resistance, holding out until the end," Zhong Tian continued.


    Upon hearing Zhong Tian''s words, some furrowed their brows, but they concealed it well, showing nothing.


    After looking around at everyone, Zhong Tian felt it was enough.


    "Of course, I am not devoid ofpassion. It''s normal to have different thoughts in times of crisis; after all, nobody wants to die. With our adoptive father still in seclusion for healing, I''ll act on his behalf. Anyone who wishes to leave, I, Zhong Tian, will not stop you, nor will Xuan Cheng. You''re free to go," Zhong Tian suddenly changed his tone.


    Upon hearing this, all the young masters paused. Allowed to leave?


    "Big Brother, is this for real?" Zhong Jin, the one who spoke earlier, asked in surprise.


    "Yes, I have credibility. You should all know this. Since I''ve said it, I''ll do it. I won''t stop you, but I hope that after you leave, you won''t betray the Zhong Mansion," Zhong Tian said solemnly.


    The adoptive sons immediately began to whisper among themselves. No one doubted Zhong Tian because all the young masters knew that Zhong Tian learned from their adoptive father, and his word was as good as gold. He would never go back on a promise.


    "You have the time it takes for an incense stick to decide. No one is allowed to leave until then. After the incense stick burns out, those willing to abandon the mansion will be escorted out of the city by my men. This is a one-time opportunity. If anyone decides not to leave, butter shows any sign of betrayal during the defense against the army, I will execute them for treason on behalf of our adoptive father," Zhong Tian dered with determination.


    Then, Zhong Tian closed his eyes. He said no more, waiting for the incense stick to burn down.


    The approaching army meant the city''s inevitable fall. After a certain time under siege, Xuan Cheng would fall without even being attacked, and then the eight hundred thousand troops would swarm in, using their lives to fill Zhong Mansion. And with their adoptive father still gravely injured, why was he injured?


    The young masters continued to talk, some already trembling with fear, ready to abandon the mansion. Once outside the Zhong Mansion, where couldn''t they go? Did they have any grudges with the emperor? Perhaps surrendering now could earn them a decent position. Even if not, the world was vast; there wasn''t just the Da Kun Nation. In the Great Song Nation, with what their adoptive father had taught them, they could still live well. To live was to have everything; to die was to be free from worry.


    After an incense stick''s worth of time...


    "Have you made your decision?" Zhong Tian asked solemnly.


    "Big Brother, we''ve made our decision. We''ll leave. Perhaps we can leave a spark for Zhong Mansion ande back for revenge in the future," Zhong Jin spoke up again.


    And behind Zhong Jin, a group of people seemed to follow his lead.


    Zhong Tian narrowed his eyes, staring at Zhong Jin for a while before finally saying, "Very well. You don''t need to pack up. Leave immediately. And once you''re out of Zhong Mansion, you''re no longer associated with us. Don''t mention revenge anymore, and don''t use the Zhong surname. You can''t bear the consequences."


    The departing individuals flushed red, but none of them said anything more, preparing to leave.


    "Ying Lan, personally escort these people out of Zhong Mansion and see them off from Xuan Cheng. After that, they will have no ties with our Zhong Mansion," Zhong Tian said with some sadness.


    "Understood," Ying Lan nodded.


    "Go, go, go!"


    Twenty people, led by Zhong Jin, followed Ying Lan, bustling out of Zhong Mansion toward the southern city gate.


    In the hall, there were still three young masters left. One was the stout man from earlier, and the other two, one around forty years old, and the other around thirty, were among the youngest.


    Watching these three, Zhong Tian took a deep breath.

 Chapter 94: Zhong Shan Awakens

    <h4>Chapter 94: Zhong Shan Awakens</h4>


    "Zhong Yu, Zhong She, Zhong Zheng, I still have three brothers!" Zhong Tian sighed.


    "Big Brother, we are all family. There''s no need for such sentimentality. We''re brothers with you and father-son with our adoptive father. If we can share joy, we can naturally share hardships. True feelings are revealed in adversity. Regardless, we are brothers," the stout man spoke up immediately.


    "As Zhong Yu said, to have father and brothers by my side at this moment is enough for me," the middle-aged man nodded.


    Finally, Zhong Zheng, the youngest at thirty, spoke with seriousness, "When I was six years old, although my memories are blurry, I know that after my biological father died, my mother was vited by household ves, couldn''t bear the humiliation, and died by hitting the wall. Her body was left in the wilderness. When I was beaten and oppressed by the former ves, it was our adoptive father who saved me. In a fit of anger, he pursued the evil ves for a thousand miles, captured them, and gave them to me. He even buried my mother with my father. From that moment on, my life belonged to our adoptive father. Whether alive or dead, I am a member of Zhong Mansion."


    Zhong Zheng didn''t speak of his deep feelings for Zhong Shan, but his in recollection was the most convincing. Zhong Tian couldn''t help but nod.


    "You should go back and rest for now. The army isn''t attacking the city, so there''s no need to worry too much. Let''s discuss everything further once our adoptive father wakes up," Zhong Tian said.


    "Understood," the three nodded and left one after another.


    As the three younger brothers left, Zhong Tian''s eyes narrowed. Though not as astute as Zhong Shan, within Zhong Tian''s keen analysis, he could sense someone was lying.


    That night, arge number of arrows suddenly shot into Xuan Cheng, aimlessly targeting all directions.


    In the Hall of Ying Lan, the lights were on, and Zhong Tian held a piece of cloth in his hand, with an arrow lying on the table beside it.


    The cloth read:


    "By the grace of heaven, the Emperor decrees: Zhong Shan of Xuan Cheng, disregarding the court, has raised troops to establish his own rule, considering himself king within the city. Despite repeated admonitions, he refuses to change his ways. This continued behavior threatens to destabilize the nation. The treacherous Zhong Shan disrupts the order of the court and the peace of the realm. He shall be executed, restoring peace to thend. However, the people of Xuan Cheng are citizens of Da Kun Nation. Fearing the suffering of innocents, the army will not attack. The citizens are allowed to leave the city. Before the battle, those who leave will bepensated for any losses. A reward of ten thousand gold coins and ennoblement will be granted to anyone who brings back Zhong Shan''s head. Those who remain in the city will be considered aplices of Zhong Shan and will be punished for treason when the battle begins."


    Reading the arrow letter shot into the city, Zhong Tian sneered, "Good, good, excellent writing."


    "Uncle," Ying Lan entered the hall from outside immediately, her face showing a hint of anxiety and a hint of relief.


    "How is it?" Zhong Tian put down the perplexing arrow letter.


    "Exactly as we suspected. There is indeed treachery among the uncles. That Zhong Jin, as he left the city, made quite a scene, as if he wanted all the citizens of the city to know that even the Zhong Mansion''s own adopted son was disappointed in the mansion and was surrendering. When he reached the city gate, I detained him and brought him back to Zhong Mansion. I interrogated him just now," Ying Lan said, her eyes shing with surprise.


    "How was the interrogation?" Zhong Tian asked.


    "I interrogated him, and there''s no doubt. Unexpectedly, Zhong Jin is actually a legitimate son of the Qian family. The Qian family was quite willing. When Zhong Jin was only four years old, they already had ns to sabotage Zhong Mansion, sending this legitimate son to disrupt it. It''s just that the arrangement of Grandfather is very special, so they''ve been tolerating it until now," Ying Lan sighed.


    Hearing Ying Lan''s words, Zhong Tian nodded. It could exin why Zhong Jin was so noisy before.


    "Furthermore," Ying Lan suddenly furrowed her brows.


    "What else?" Zhong Tian asked in confusion.


    "ording to his confession, Zhong Yu is also a legitimate son of the Zhao family and, like him, also had ns to infiltrate Zhong Mansion," Ying Lan said.


    Upon hearing Ying Lan''s words, Zhong Tian lifted a cup of tea and took a sip. He remained silent for a moment. Would Zhong Yu continue to tolerate until the end?


    "Steward, summon Zhong Yu, Zhong She, and Zhong Zheng," Zhong Tian put down his teacup and said angrily.


    "Yes," a steward outside the door responded.


    "Wait," Zhong Tian suddenly stopped the steward.


    He paced back and forth in the hall.


    As the three younger brothers left, Zhong Tian''s eyes narrowed. Though not as astute as Zhong Shan, within Zhong Tian''s keen analysis, he could sense someone was lying.


    That night, arge number of arrows suddenly shot into Xuan Cheng, aimlessly targeting all directions.


    In the Hall of Ying Lan, the lights were on, and Zhong Tian held a piece of cloth in his hand, with an arrow lying on the table beside it.


    The cloth read:


    "By the grace of heaven, the Emperor decrees: Zhong Shan of Xuan Cheng, disregarding the court, has raised troops to establish his own rule, considering himself king within the city. Despite repeated admonitions, he refuses to change his ways. This continued behavior threatens to destabilize the nation. The treacherous Zhong Shan disrupts the order of the court and the peace of the realm. He shall be executed, restoring peace to thend. However, the people of Xuan Cheng are citizens of Da Kun Nation. Fearing the suffering of innocents, the army will not attack. The citizens are allowed to leave the city. Before the battle, those who leave will bepensated for any losses. A reward of ten thousand gold coins and ennoblement will be granted to anyone who brings back Zhong Shan''s head. Those who remain in the city will be considered aplices of Zhong Shan and will be punished for treason when the battle begins."


    Reading the arrow letter shot into the city, Zhong Tian sneered, "Good, good, excellent writing."


    "Uncle," Ying Lan entered the hall from outside immediately, her face showing a hint of anxiety and a hint of relief.


    "How is it?" Zhong Tian put down the perplexing arrow letter.


    "Exactly as we suspected. There is indeed treachery among the uncles. That Zhong Jin, as he left the city, made quite a scene, as if he wanted all the citizens of the city to know that even the Zhong Mansion''s own adopted son was disappointed in the mansion and was surrendering. When he reached the city gate, I detained him and brought him back to Zhong Mansion. I interrogated him just now," Ying Lan said, her eyes shing with surprise.


    "How was the interrogation?" Zhong Tian asked.


    "I interrogated him, and there''s no doubt. Unexpectedly, Zhong Jin is actually a legitimate son of the Qian family. The Qian family was quite willing. When Zhong Jin was only four years old, they already had ns to sabotage Zhong Mansion, sending this legitimate son to disrupt it. It''s just that the arrangement of Grandfather is very special, so they''ve been tolerating it until now," Ying Lan sighed.


    Hearing Ying Lan''s words, Zhong Tian nodded. It could exin why Zhong Jin was so noisy before.


    "Furthermore," Ying Lan suddenly furrowed her brows.


    "What else?" Zhong Tian asked in confusion.


    "ording to his confession, Zhong Yu is also a legitimate son of the Zhao family and, like him, also had ns to infiltrate Zhong Mansion," Ying Lan said.


    Upon hearing Ying Lan''s words, Zhong Tian lifted a cup of tea and took a sip. He remained silent for a moment. Would Zhong Yu continue to tolerate until the end?


    "Steward, summon Zhong Yu, Zhong She, and Zhong Zheng," Zhong Tian put down his teacup and said angrily.


    "Yes," a steward outside the door responded.


    "Wait," Zhong Tian suddenly stopped the steward.


    He paced back and forth in the hall.


    After a moment of contemtion, Zhong Tian spoke, "No need to notify them. Find the close servants of those three and let slip the news that Ying Lan has captured Zhong Jin. Also, hint that there are simr individuals among the young masters. As for Zhong Jin, since I promised before, release him from the city as well. Do not mention Zhong Yu; simply say that there are still internal traitors among the young masters, and I am doing my utmost to investigate. Once identified, they will be exterminated without mercy to eliminate future threats."


    "Understood," the steward immediately responded.


    "Uncle, are you nning to expel all the traitors?" Ying Lan asked.


    "Yes, there''s no time to investigate, and even if we do, what then? It''s better to drive them out of the city," Zhong Tian shook his head and sighed.


    Soon, the three brothers would be reduced again.


    That night, Zhong Tian and Ying Lan remained seated in the Yi Lan Hall.


    Finally, at dawn, a steward-like figure came to report.


    "Young Master, Miss, Zhong Jin has been sent out of the city. Young Master Zhong Yu and Young Master Zhong She also snuck out early this morning under the pretense of inspecting the defenses," the steward respectfully said.


    Zhong Tian was silent for a moment, then sighed softly, "Remember, those who leave the city will no longer be young masters of the Zhong family. The Zhong family''s young masters now include only myself and Zhong Zheng."


    "Understood," the steward nodded.


    "Summon Zhong Zheng here to discuss pacifying the city and resisting the army," Zhong Tian instructed.


    "Yes," the steward nodded and exited.


    In Xuan City, south of the city, in arge camp.


    At this moment, those who had betrayed Zhong Shan from the Zhong residence were all held in this camp, a total of eighteen people. Additionally, four others, including Zhong Jin, Zhong Yu, and Zhong She, stood with the four great families. After all, they originally belonged to these families.


    Inside the grand tent, besides the Su family patriarch, many innate experts had also arrived.


    They looked at these eighteen cowering individuals.


    "Even their father could be betrayed, so how can we trust them to serve us in the future? Wouldn''t they betray us too? Besides, there might be people among them deliberately nted by Zhong Shan," Emperor Su Zhengde frowned and said.


    Others also nodded in agreement.


    "Your Majesty, we are innocent. Didn''t you say earlier that as long as we left the city and surrendered, we would be pardoned?"


    "Your Majesty, have mercy! We have no connection with Zhong Shan."


    "Your Majesty, we all have our own skills and can serve you and the Da Kun Kingdom."


    With a cold gaze upon the group, Su Zhengde''s lips curled into a slight smirk. Just as Su Zhengde was about to speak, a eunuch-like figure beside him bowed slightly to the emperor and said, "Your Majesty."


    ncing at the old eunuch, Su Zhengde furrowed his brows slightly, showing little arrogance on his face. "Wei Gonggong, what is it?"


    Wei Gonggong, originally named Wei Taizhong, now served as the chief steward of the Da Kun Kingdom''s pce. Although he was merely a eunuch, he was an innate expert and had served Su Zhengde since childhood, so Su Zhengde did not underestimate him.


    "Our household has previously informed Your Majesty that before entering the pce, we had an irreconcble enmity with Zhong Shan. Now that his disciples have emerged, we hope Your Majesty will entrust them to me for handling," Wei Gonggong bowed respectfully.


    Watching Wei Taizhong, Su Zhengde nodded, then nced at the representatives of the four great families, who seemed indifferent.


    "Very well, these people are now under your jurisdiction," Su Zhengde nodded.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," Wei Taizhong said expressionlessly.


    "Alright, everyone, let''s go. We''ll listen to the intelligence brought back by your spies from the four families," Su Zhengde said.


    "Understood," the group nodded. Having thetest intelligence would greatly aid in capturing Xuan City.


    As the group left, the old eunuch Wei Taizhong narrowed his eyes and stared at them. With a flick of his hand, he suddenly began to move. Amidst the cries of surprise, he swiftly killed all eighteen people.


    Wiping the blood off his hands with a handkerchief, his previously stern expression softened into a sigh. Speaking to himself, he said, "Are these your disciples? Once out of the Zhong residence, they are no longer Zhong family members. Although they have betrayed, you surely wouldn''t bear to kill them. So let me be the viin instead."


    Inside the Zhong residence, in the secluded ce where Zhong Shan was in seclusion, in a dim environment.


    Three days ago, as Zhong Shan fell into aa, his hidden body suddenly dispersed. And on this third day at dusk, slowly, a figure began to form within the darkness, gradually taking shape.


    Zhong Shan, the hidden body of Zhong Shan, reappeared. He sat cross-legged with his eyes closed.


    At the same time, in the Listening Waters Pavilion of the Kaiyang Sect, on Zhong Shan''s bed.


    Zhong Shan''s main body also slowly regained consciousness from hisa, gently opening his eyes.


    Within his blurred vision, five figures were reflected. They were in Zhong Shan''s own room: Tian Ling''er was holding onto his arm with a haggard face, Tian Xingzi, Lonely Widow, and Xuanxinzi stood behind Tian Ling''er. Beside the three, there was a beautiful woman in green clothes whom Zhong Shan had never seen before. However, this woman didn''t seem too friendly toward him.


    "Awake, awake! Zhong Shan is awake!" Tian Ling''er eximed excitedly, tears of joy streaming down her eyes.


    Zhong Shan looked closely at Tian Ling''er, and seeing her haggard appearance, his long-dormant heart trembled. Just as Tian Ling''er became excited, her eyes closed, and she copsed.


    "Ling''er!" The woman in green rushed forward and caught the falling Tian Ling''er.


    Zhong Shan tried to reach out to grab Tian Ling''er, but his entire body was racked with excruciating pain, rendering him immobile. Tian Ling''er was lifted by the woman in green.


    "Ling''er is exhausted and needs rest. I''ll take her back," Nie Qingqing said, without waiting for anyone''s consent, and immediately rushed out.


    Seeing that Tian Xingzi didn''t stop her, Zhong Shan breathed a sigh of relief. Since Tian Xingzi tacitly agreed, Ling''er shouldn''t be in danger.


    Xuanxinzi and Lonely Widow seemed equally concerned about Tian Ling''er. After Nie Qingqing left with Tian Ling''er, they also exited Zhong Shan''s bedroom, leaving only Tian Xingzi by Zhong Shan''s bedside.


    "Master, disciple has failed in his duty," Zhong Shan said with some difficulty.


    "No, Ling''er has already told me. You have done well. I also thank you for taking care of Ling''er. If it weren''t for you, she might have died several times on this trip. Thank you," Tian Xingzi said solemnly.


    Over the past three days, Tian Ling''er had gradually recounted the events she had encountered during her journey. The experiences along the way were truly terrifying, involving life-threatening encounters with beings such as the Silver Immortal, the Zombie Master, the Thunder General, the mighty Emperor, the Eight-Gate Lock Formation, and the Thunder Scorpion Eggs. Despite Zhong Shan''s weak cultivation, he miraculously brought Tian Ling''er safely through it all. Even he didn''t dare to im that he had kept herpletely safe, but Zhong Shan''s ability to bring Tian Ling''er safely through such dangers was truly remarkable.


    Tian Xingzi''s gratitude to Zhong Shan was sincere. If it weren''t for Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er might not have returned this time.


    "Disciple is grateful," Zhong Shan said immediately.


    "No, I mean it. This baptism of thunder and lightning has left you greatly afflicted, but it also proves your unwavering will. Although it hasn''t changed your aptitude, it''s not without benefits. Take good care of yourself. When you fully recover, I will take you as my disciple," Tian Xingzi said solemnly.


    Hearing Tian Xingzi''s promise, Zhong Shan felt overjoyed. Rarely, he was moved and said, "Thank you, Master, no, thank you, Master."


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s address, Tian Xingzi nodded.


    "You should rest. I''ll go see how Ling''er is doing," Tian Xingzi said.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan immediately responded.


    Then Tian Xingzi hurried out to check on Ling''er. Zhong Shan took a deep breath, struggled to sit up, and crossed his legs. Despite the pain coursing through his entire body, he could endure it, knowing there was precedent in his body being tempered by the Heavenly Demon.


    His mental consciousness delved into his body, finding that his true qi, although only one-tenth of its full strength, was even purer. Even the true qi seemed to be shrouded in a misty state.


    Fifth level of Innate Realm? A breakthrough? Zhong Shan felt somewhat surprised by the changes in his true qi. The fifth level, the pinnacle of Innate True Qi, enduring eight days of torment, his true qi had actually been tempered by the thunder and lightning.


    Ascending one more level would allow him to condense his true essence, marking a new leap in his strength. Moreover, Zhong Shan also sensed a faint trace of lightning within his true qi.


    Fortune lies within misfortune, and misfortune within fortune. It seemed this saying was not untrue. Although he didn''t obtain Thunder Blossoms, the current gains were no less inferior to Thunder Blossoms.


    Now, it was time to slowly recuperate and cultivate his true qi.


    As the main body of Zhong Shan woke up, the hidden body of Zhong Shan alsopletely recovered. After circting his true qi within his body for a week, he found that it smoothly reached the fifth level of Innate Realm. Furthermore, after consolidating for a day, he discovered that he had even reached the peak of the fifth level of Innate Realm.


    Taking a deep breath, the hidden body of Zhong Shan, with a hint of contentment, slowly stood up, opened the door, and walked out.

 Chapter 95: Am I Heavy, or is the Da Kun Kingdom Heavy?

    <h4>Chapter 95: Am I Heavy, or is the Da Kun Kingdom Heavy?</h4>


    Xuan City, Zhong Residence.


    As Zhong Shan opened the door, his brows furrowed instantly. He heard a lot ofmotion outside the courtyard. Was it from the hidden sentries outside the courtyard?


    Why were there suddenly so many people?


    Slowly, Zhong Shan walked to the front of the small courtyard.


    He gently opened the courtyard door.


    "Uncle, you''re finally out of seclusion," came Ying Lan''s excited voice from outside the courtyard.


    Upon opening the door, Zhong Shan saw Ying Lan''s delicate face. He smiled slightly, but he also noticed two figures behind Ying Lan.


    Zhong Zheng and Zhong Tian? When did Zhong Tian return?


    "Father!" Zhong Tian and Zhong Zheng eximed simultaneously. Their expressions were somewhat anxious, but more so, they were excited.


    The initial confusion in Zhong Shan''s mind was instantly reced by seriousness. From the expressions of everyone, it was evident that something had happened, something significant.


    "Let''s go, let''s go to the Yi Lan Hall first," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes," everyone replied.


    An hourter, in the Yi Lan Hall.


    Zhong Shan sat on the chief''s chair on the left side, while Zhong Tian, Zhong Zheng, and Ying Lan sat below, all looking at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes, lightly tapping the table beside him. Just now, he had listened to everyone''s reports. Zhong Shan couldn''t help but sigh heavily. All his adopted sons had abandoned the residence and left. Cowardly and weak, although most of them were probably incited, their hearts had momentarily weakened and were then taken advantage of by Zhong Jin. Perhaps they were regretting it now, but what was the use of regret? Once they left, they left. Those who abandon me, will never be kept.


    Since they stepped out of the Zhong residence, then this father-son rtionship should be severed.


    However, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but feel a little sad.


    "Uncle, I ordered strict vignce around the city gates. After the traitors left the Zhong residence that day, I was worried that if some people left the city, more people would be afraid and flee, causing panic among the soldiers. So, I didn''t allow anyone to leave the city," Ying Lan said as she looked at Zhong Shan.


    Opening his eyes lightly and looking at Ying Lan, Zhong Shan smiled faintly. "You did the right thing."


    "But the civilian unrest has already begun. Four days ago, the city gates were closed, and food and firewood couldn''t enter the city. With food shortages, public grievances have risen. Some agitators incited the people to break out of the city, while others incited them to rush into the Zhong residence. The mob is rising, Xuan City has nearly a million people, and eight thousand soldiers are still guarding the city. They can''t maintain the city''s public order at all," Ying Lan shook her head.


    "But didn''t some civilians break in?" Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "They''re not causing trouble. Many wealthy merchants in the city have spontaneously organized their servants to dismantle furniture for firewood and distribute food, calming most of the people. However, they are still making a ruckus outside the Zhong residence. It''s hard for us to deal with them. After all, they haven''t caused any trouble and have helped appease the people. They''re just making noise outside," Ying Lan said, frowning.


    "What are they moring about?" Zhong Shan asked Ying Lan.


    "They want to see you," Ying Lan said.


    At this moment, both Zhong Tian and Zhong Zheng were sitting quietly because, in their view, with Zhong Shan in charge, that was sufficient.


    "They want to see me? Then let''s go meet them. Lead the way, Ying Lan," Zhong Shan said solemnly, getting up.


    "Yes," Ying Lan nodded.


    Then, the four of them walked toward the Zhong residence''s entrance.


    Arriving at the gate, sure enough, there were nearly a thousand people surrounding the Zhong residence''s entrance, led by arge group of well-dressed wealthy merchants.


    "Mr. Zhong ising out, that''s Mr. Zhong."


    Zhong Shan might have appeared less frequently, but he had appeared before, and those who had seen him recognized him.


    Sure enough, the previously noisy crowd stopped talking and stared at the much younger Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan was still Zhong Shan, just much younger, appearing in his thirties, the prime of his life. An innate expert. Almost everyone''s mind shed with this thought: could one truly return to youth with innate abilities?


    The leading elder immediately recognized Zhong Shan because he had seen Zhong Shan''s youthful appearance before. Although decades had passed, Zhong Shan could always bring a strong sense of shock in any form.


    "Elders of the Eight Major Families, it''s been many years. Don''t you recognize me?" Zhong Shan spoke calmly.


    "Grandfather, is that Mr. Zhong?" A young man behind the elder suddenly spoke up.


    "Shut up!" The elder immediately scolded the young man angrily, his eyes ring. The frightened young man quickly shut his mouth. He was the most favored young master in the family and the most beloved grandson. This was the first time he had seen his grandfather in such a stern manner.


    "We''ve seen Mr. Zhong," the leading eight elders respectfully said.


    "We''ve seen Mr. Zhong," the other secondary merchants immediately echoed respectfully.


    Zhong Tian, Zhong Zheng, and Ying Lan followed behind Zhong Shan as he walked slowly to the central square in front of the gate. Zhong Shan nced at everyone and respectfully sped his hands, saying, "Thank you all for your efforts in these past few days. The shortage of food and firewood in Xuan Cheng is the responsibility of my Zhong family. I will immediately send enough food and firewood. Anything lost during these days will bepensated by my Zhong family."


    "You''re too kind, Mr. Zhong," the eight elders said respectfully. As for the others, no one dared to interrupt.


    Looking at everyone, Zhong Shan smiled faintly and said, "However, since you are willing to share the hardships with Xuan Cheng, why surround my Zhong residence?"


    At this point, one of the elders spoke up, "There were rumors circting earlier that Mr. Zhong was seriously ill, so we just came to check."


    "Yes, we just came to see Mr. Zhong," another elder added.


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly, not exposing the truth but nodding directly, "Eight hundred thousand troops are at the city gates, and Emperor Su Zhengde is leading them personally. Merchants are profit-seeking, and we all understand that very well. Now, you can see for yourselves, who is more valuable, me or the Great Kun Empire?"


    "Is it me or the Great Kun Empire?"


    Zhong Shan''s words were unprecedented. In this prosperous era, which merchant dared to equate themselves with a nation?


    There have been wealthy merchants who could rival nations in history, but who dared to make such a statement? And this was even in a seemingly disadvantaged situation.


    Zhong Shan''s words deeply shocked everyone''s hearts. What kind of courage did it take to say such words? From now on, Zhong Shan''s image would be etched deeply in everyone''s minds once again.


    "Is it me or the Great Kun Empire?"


    Zhong Shan was still forcing everyone to make a choice!


    The atmosphere became quiet, and no one dared to speak. Although all the merchants were profit-driven, who would dare to utter such treasonous words?


    Everyone looked at the eight elders in the front.


    The eight elders looked at Zhong Shan and took a deep breath. Although they had experienced countless storms, facing Zhong Shan''s tsunami-like statement was like facing a small ripple in ake.


    Zhong Shan patiently waited. Finally, after ten breaths, one elder spoke first.


    "Mr. Zhong, I respect you as a person. As for which is more important, I dare not say. However, I can assure you that as long as Xuan Cheng stands, my business will fully support you, Mr. Zhong. I swear, may the heavens bear witness," the elder said solemnly.


    "We support Mr. Zhong," the other elders immediately followed.


    "We support Mr. Zhong," the other merchants echoed.


    Yinn stood behind Zhong Shan, watching as he, with his own presence, intimidated numerous merchants. Her heart was filled with excitement. When Zhong Shan, with his dominant attitude, asked, "Is it me or the Great Kun Empire?" her admiration for him became even more evident. In the eyes of everyone present, what had just happened would surely be recorded as a significant event in history.


    Without any use of force, without any selfish motives, and without much personal connection or emotion, it was solely based on reputation. Zhong Shan''s reputation, these two words, had garnered the support of everyone present. It was truly unbelievable.


    Zhong Tian, Zhong Zheng, and Ying Lan also showed excitement.


    "All right, since that''s the case, I ask you all to return to your respective residences first, reassure your servants, and prevent any civil unrest," Zhong Shan said, breaking the silence.


    "Mr. Zhong, take care,"


    "Mr. Zhong, farewell,"


    ...everyone said in session. Then, the more than a thousand people who were just here quickly left, led by the heads of the merchants.


    Zhong Shan and the others watched as the merchants left.


    "Steward," Zhong Shan called out to the steward standing behind him.


    "Yes, Master," one of the stewards immediately stepped forward respectfully.


    "Open the underground mechanism in Cuiyin Courtyard and use the train from Qingcheng to bring all the emergency supplies. Distribute them to the people of Xuan Cheng. At the same time, have someone tally the losses suffered by the people of Xuan Cheng this time and make up for themter," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes," the steward responded promptly.


    During their previous inquiries to the steward, Zhong Tian, Zhong Zheng, and Ying Lan hadn''t managed to extract this secret measure from him. Now that Zhong Shan had ordered it, the steward obeyed immediately. It was clear that the steward had kept this secret from everyone, but Zhong Tian, Zhong Zheng, and Ying Lan didn''t me him in the slightest.


    "Uncle, you once said that there are ruthless merchants and righteous merchants. Which category do these merchants belong to? They are risking rebellion against the entire Great Kun Empire just because of a word from you. Your reputation is so powerful," Ying Lan couldn''t help but express her excitement.


    Looking at Ying Lan''s flushed face, Zhong Shan smiled faintly and said, "Reputation power? If it were just a matter of reputation, they would have left the city with their servants long ago."


    "Huh?" Ying Lan was taken aback.


    "Remember, profit is the nature of merchants, and righteous merchants are only a very small minority. This time, all the merchants are willing to take risks for me. It''s not just about reputation; the most important thing is still profit. All the world acts for profit, and all the world''s turmoil is driven by profit. In the Great Kun Empire, the business world respects me. Most of their industries have shares owned by me. Once I die, these industries will surely be nationalized. At that time, they will suffer heavy losses. Compared to all the current losses, the losses in the future will make them feel worse than death. In their minds, I am not only synonymous with profit, but also mysterious. They believe in my strength, so they are willing to take a chance with me," Zhong Shan exined solemnly.


    "So this is the binding of interests?" Ying Lan immediately recalled a phrase she had heard from Zhong Shan when she was younger.

 Chapter 96: You Have Quite the Courage

    <h4>Chapter 96: You Have Quite the Courage</h4>


    "This is what they call ''interest bundling''?" Yinn seemed to recall the words Zhongshan had spoken to her in her childhood.


    "Interest bundling? Haha, you could say that," Zhongshan chuckled heartily. It was obviously more than just that, but for Yinn, a female general, knowing this much was sufficient.


    Behind him, Zhongtian and Zhongzheng also wore faint smiles.


    "Let''s go, back first. Prepare for the uing national war," Zhongshan said confidently.


    National war, preparing for a national war? Zhongtian and Zhongzheng exchanged a nce. Did their foster father''s words just now ce them in the position of a nation? Faced with the Great Kun Country, had their foster father decided to abandon his previous thoughts and prepare to establish a renowned nation for generations toe?


    As they returned to Yn Hall, everyone''s mood had improved significantly. What seemed like a tangled mess of internal and external troubles before had now be clear and straightforward under Zhongshan''s management. Unity was soon to be achieved within Xuancheng, and then they would stand united against external threats.


    "Zhongtian, why have you returned this time?" Zhongshan sat down again, looking at his adopted son, Zhongtian.


    "This time, I''vee back to bid farewell to Father," Zhongtian replied after a moment of silence.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan looked at Zhongtian.


    "A few days ago, I attained the innate realm. My master said my physique is one in ten thousand and wants to take me to a ce called ''Shenzhou'' to enter its main gate for long-term cultivation. So, I requested my master to allow me to return to bid farewell," Zhongtian said, furrowing his brow.


    "That''s great," Zhongshan immediately eximed.


    "But..." Zhongtian hesitated.


    "Don''t worry. Since I''ve reached the innate realm, I''ll have boundless opportunities in the future. While you cultivate in Shenzhou, my influence will sooner orter extend there. When you return afterpleting your training, you can assist me then," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Understood," Zhongtian breathed a sigh of relief. If Father said it could be done, then it definitely could.


    After a moment of thought, Zhongshan asked again, "Shenzhou, your master mentioned Shenzhou. What kind of ce is Shenzhou, and what do we call our ownnd?"


    "My master didn''t say much, but he did mention that where we are is called ''Tiang Ind''," Zhongtian said after some thought.


    Tiang Ind? An ind? Just arge ind? How could an ind be so vast?


    Zhongshan furrowed his brow in thought for a while before looking at Zhongzheng, Zhongtian, and Yinn.


    "Yinn, you''llmand all the soldiers in Xuancheng," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," Yinn nodded excitedly.


    "Zhongzheng," Zhongshan turned to his adopted son again.


    "Here," Zhongzheng stepped forward immediately.


    "Others may not know, but I know, you have the talent formand, understand how to wield influence. For years, I''ve had you in charge of market expansion, and you''ve done an excellent job. In the past, we managed a certain type of goods, but from now on, I''ll be managing a nation, a dynasty, a world. Are you prepared for this?" Zhongshan looked at his adopted son with a smile.


    At the same time, besides Yinn, Zhongtian and Zhongzheng heard Zhongshan''s exact response for the first time �C the establishment of a nation.


    "Yes, I''ve been waiting for this day," Zhongzheng said excitedly.


    "Good, let''s start with the people''s livelihood. Yinn will lead the troops, and you will be in charge of the city''s civilians, all the constables and city management will be under your coordination. Quickly stabilize the people''s hearts for me, root out spies, draw out able-bodied men, and reinforce the city''s defense," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Yes," Zhongzheng epted themand.


    "As for Zhongtian," Zhongshan looked at Zhongtian again.


    "Here," Zhongtian stepped forward.


    Zhongshan handed over a piece of Yin Spirit Stone and a piece of Yang Spirit Stone, gently passing them to Zhongtian, saying, "You have reached the innate realm. Rest well for a short time, and then apany me to confront the other innate masters."


    "Yes," Zhongtian responded immediately, somewhat surprised as he lightly took the two spiritual stones.


    "Alright, you may leave now," Zhongshan said again.


    "Yes," the three immediately left the hall.


    When everyone had left, Zhongshan spoke softly, "Dark Emperor,e out."


    "Yes, master," a figure wrapped in a ck robe slowly emerged from a dark corner of the hall.


    "Please, sit," Zhongshan gestured to the Dark Emperor.


    "Yes," the Dark Emperor nodded and sat at Zhongshan''s side.


    "These days, I assume your Dark Night Hall has already dispatched operatives. What''s the defense situation outside the city?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yes, the Dark Night Hall has sent numerous assassins to infiltrate the army. They are constantly getting closer to the generals. As long as you give the order, they will not hesitate to risk their lives to assassinate the high-ranking officers. However, it''s not easy to deal with the several innate masters from the four major families and the royal family," the Dark Emperor replied after some thought.


    "Twelve innate masters? Quite the grand arrangement. But there''s no need to worry too much about them. Innate masters can''t withstand a volley of arrows, and there''s only one at the pinnacle of innate. I have the Eight Ox Crossbow Array; they won''t dare to attack recklessly. As for those generals, I''ll give you a listter. Withdraw the assassins targeting those generals. They are our own people," Zhongshan said in a deep voice.


    "Yes," the Dark Emperor nodded.


    Two dayster, south of Xuancheng, within the central tent of the camp, the twelve innate masters gathered once again.


    The Patriarch of the Su Family spoke first, "It''s already the sixth day. Lian Xian, you said there would be chaos among the people in the city, that Xuancheng would fall without needing to be attacked, but none of that has happened. Moreover, there are even civilians participating in the defense on the city walls, and the defensive weaponry has increased."


    The former Emperor, Su Lian Xian, furrowed his brow, a hint of worry shing in his eyes as he said, "Perhaps the news brought by Zhongshan''s adopted sons was false, meant to disrupt our judgment."


    "No, Father," Emperor Su Zhengde suddenly spoke up.


    "Hmm?" Everyone turned to look at Su Zhengde.


    "Maybe, just maybe, Zhongshan wasn''t injured at all. And the fact that civilians are participating in the defense could only mean that Zhongshan has intervened. Because, although the people of Xuancheng may not be loyal to the Great Kun Country, they wouldn''t rebel without cause. If they are truly rebelling now, there''s only one possibility �C Zhongshan''s involvement," Su Zhengde exined.


    Upon hearing Su Zhengde''s words, everyone nodded in agreement. Indeed, only Zhongshan would have such tremendous influence. This was treason, and without Zhongshan''s intervention or the current Crown Prince''s call, the people wouldn''t dare to rebel.


    After some contemtion, it was Su Lian Xian, the former Emperor, who spoke again, "Tomorrow, I will challenge them at the South Gate to see if Zhongshan has truly appeared."


    "Yes," everyone nodded.


    The next morning, two hundred thousand troops assembled at the South Gate, with the twelve innate masters at the forefront, each mounted on horseback, coldly gazing towards the distant city walls.


    On the city walls, Yinn stood with her sword in hand, calmly observing the scene below. Archers lined the walls, arrows nocked and ready, yet Yinn remained unfazed. Beyond the city wallsy a moat; though not particrly wide, it was enough to deter these invaders on horseback. With eight hundred thousand troops surrounding the city gates, only two hundred thousand were stationed at the South Gate.


    Among the twelve innate masters, a man who appeared to be in his forties, Su Lian Xian, rode forward on horseback.


    "Where is Zhongshan?" Su Lian Xian bellowed towards the city walls.


    With his shout, his voice resonated for miles around, echoing not only on the city walls but also within the city itself, a testament to the power behind his voice.


    Within Xuancheng, at the same time, Zhongshan slowly made his way towards the southern gate and the city wall.


    Zhongzheng had managed civil affairs impably. Most of the popce stayed indoors, with few venturing out to some taverns or teahouses. As Zhongshan walked along the streets, the people in various shops and households showed expressions of reverence and admiration. Even the heads of the Eight Major Families, who had stood in their respective shops, along with numerous merchants and servants, looked on with utmost respect as Zhongshan made his way towards the city wall.


    "Mr. Zhong."


    "Zhong Patriarch."


    ... Everywhere Zhongshan went, respectful voices echoed, but Zhongshan merely nodded faintly in acknowledgment.


    Xuancheng had a peculiar geography. There was an outer moat, and it seemed there was also an inner moat within the city. Crossing the inner moat, Zhongshan reached the city wall, where the defenders seemed to be revitalized by his presence.


    It wasn''t until Zhongshan reached the topmost part of the city wall, standing on the terrace, looking down at the army below, that Yinn, upon seeing him, immediately stood behind him, sword in hand.


    "Zhongshan, do you still recognize me?" Su Lian Xian shouted from atop his horse, facing Zhongshan on the city wall.


    Others also noticed that indeed, Zhongshan had emerged from the city unharmed.


    Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed. He nced at the various innate masters, then finally turned his gaze towards Su Lian Xian.


    "Su Lian Xian," Zhongshan said in a deep voice.


    "Do you remember me, Zhongshan? You are guilty of heinous crimes, amassing troops and fortifying the city, undermining the foundation of our Great Kun Dynasty. We are here today to exterminate you, the traitor. Do you have anything to say?" Su Lian Xian called out.


    Su Lian Xian''s words were not directed at Zhongshan, but at the army behind him. Although Zhongshan was merely a merchant, his influence within the Great Kun Dynasty was immense. He had earned a great deal of money and had equally spent much on charitable deeds. At least one-fifth of the country''s popce had benefited in some way from Zhongshan''s various businesses. Among the soldiers behind Su Lian Xian, there were likely those whose rtives had been helped by Zhongshan, or even some who had directly received his aid. Now, to deal with Zhongshan, they had to tarnish his reputation as well.


    Zhongshan nced coldly at Su Lian Xian.


    "Su Lian Xian, you are the former Emperor of the Great Kun Dynasty. During our conversation at the Lan Pavilion, I made a promise. As long as your Su family did not target me, Zhongshan, I would remain a loyal subject of the Great Kun Dynasty, never to rebel, and merely be a merchant. But, unexpectedly, you broke your promise and even brought eighty thousand troops to kill me," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    As Zhongshan spoke, Su Lian Xian felt a chill. Indeed, Zhongshan had said such words to him before. He had broken his promise first, but what could be done now?


    "Targeting me is one thing, but to send assassins to kill my adopted sons... You have quite the courage!" Zhongshan shouted.


    You have quite the courage!


    Almost everyone was momentarily stunned. The phrase "you have quite the courage" made it sound as if Zhongshan were the emperor reigning supreme, and the current Su Lian Xian was a rebellious traitor seeking to usurp the throne.

 Chapter 97: Reversing the Situation

    <h4>Chapter 97: Reversing the Situation</h4>


    The assassination attempt on Zhongshan''s adopted sons �C was this Su Lian Xian''s doing? In that moment, Su Lian Xian found himself at a disadvantage in terms of righteousness.


    "I, Zhongshan, believe that my actions are justifiable in the eyes of heaven and the people. Though I am a merchant, I take from the people and still give back to them. The Great Song Country, situated in a fertilend, still sees countless people starving to death in the wilderness. On the other hand, the Great Kun Country''snd is not as fertile, and we face natural disasters year after year. Yet, not a single person in the Great Kun Country dies of starvation. Is this your court''s doing? Every time there is a disaster, has there not been substantial assistance from my Zhongshan Trading House? Today, you seek to kill the goose thatys the golden eggs for your selfish desires, to destroy me, Zhongshan. After today, which merchant would dare toe forward to save the country and its people? After today, how will you face the world and the people? Even if you have a great army behind you, dare you say that not a single person has received my kindness?" Zhongshan spoke loudly.


    With Zhongshan''s words, the morale of the troops was shaken. The originally grim atmosphere within the army now showed signs of unrest. Indeed, most soldiers may not have received Zhongshan''s benevolence, but there was still a small portion who had, or whose parents had been saved from starvation by the Zhongshan Trading House during times of famine.


    Now, they were ordered to march against this benefactor? Although soldiers obey orders, they were still human, with hearts of flesh. There were inevitably some who felt reluctant to kill Zhongshan.


    Turning his head, Su Lian Xian saw the stir within the army and immediately sensed that things were not going well.


    With morale already weakened, should theyunch a strong attack now? Moreover, Zhongshan''s speech seemed to invigorate the defenders, boosting their spirits. Even the civilians within the city, who had initially been somewhat timid, now seemed impassioned.


    Launch an attack? It was not advisable at this moment, despite their overwhelming numerical advantage over the defenders.


    "Hmph, Zhongshan is acting against the country, openly rebelling. Any civilians whoe out of the city can be pardoned; otherwise, they will be treated as aplices to Zhongshan''s crimes," Su Lian Xian dered again.


    However, not only were the defenders affected, even the civilians below the city walls were now filled with fervor by Zhongshan''s words. After all, in Xuancheng, there were far more who had benefited from Zhongshan''s kindness.


    <i>Dong~~~~~~</i>


    Emperor Su Zhengde had already ordered the recall of troops.


    Although they knew they outnumbered the defenders, they also understood the importance of morale. It was better to regroup their troops and n their next move carefully.


    Su Lian Xian snorted as he nced at Zhongshan. Riding his horse, he retreated with the other transcendent experts, leading the army back to their camp.


    "You''re amazing, Uncle Zhong! With just a few words, you managed to make twenty thousand soldiers retreat," eximed Enn, her eyes filled with admiration.


    Enn hadmanded troops before, but Uncle Zhong''s feat was beyond impressive. To make twenty thousand soldiers retreat with just a few words was truly incredible.


    "Retreat? It''s only temporary. But having this temporary advantage is enough. The message should have been delivered. It''s time to make our move," Zhongshan said, shaking his head with a smile.


    Then, Zhongshan slowly descended from the city wall, ready to continue strategizing for the uing battle.


    "Father, why did you order the recall of troops? With our two hundred thousand strong army, breaking through Xuancheng, although difficult, would be worth it if we could kill Zhongshan," Su Zhengde''s son asked anxiously.


    "Son, think about how many casualties we would suffer if we stormed into the city," Su Lian Xian replied.


    "At most eighty thousand soldiers, and we would certainly be able to kill Zhongshan," Su Zhengde replied.


    "In Xuancheng now, the civilians are surely united against us. By then, at least one hundred and twenty thousand soldiers would die, and perhaps another hundred and fifty thousand civilians would perish. The loss of soldiers is one thing, but if one hundred and fifty thousand civilians die this time, how long can our Su family hold onto the Great Kun Country?" Su Zhengde continued.


    "You''re right, Your Majesty. What His Majesty says is true. Although we may be able to kill Zhongshan momentarily, at that time, the royal family will surely lose the trust of the people, and there will be widespread discontent among the popce. The people will no longer support the royal family, and there will surely be numerous rebellions. Furthermore, the other five countries are also eyeing our Great Kun Country. One move could set off a chain reaction," Prime Minister Wei suddenly interjected.


    His words were echoed by the other transcendent experts. Indeed, Su Zhengde''s decision was correct, even the ancestral Su family nodded in agreement.


    "How much food does he have in Xuancheng? All we have to do is wait patiently. Isn''t this your strategy, Father?" Su Zhengdeughed.


    Looking at Su Zhengde, Su Lian Xian said anxiously, "Don''t you understand how terrifying Zhongshan is? Don''t you understand that I received news of his seclusion andter his severe injury? I was foolish toe up with that strategy. But just now, I realized how ridiculous my previous thoughts were. Seeing him, I felt his former majesty once again, even stronger than before. He only needs time to turn the tables. We can''t give him that time. With just a little time, he can change everything. If it weren''t for me using my power to make a deal with him back then, he would have reced the Su family and be the ruler of the Great Kun Country."


    "Enough," the ancestral Su family interrupted abruptly.


    The ancestral''s stern rebuke silenced everyone.


    "Once a mighty ruler of a nation, yet you''re hesitating like this? Can Zhongshan really train the civilians in the city to be a formidable army? Besides, how long can they hold out with their remaining food? How many more houses can they dismantle for firewood? As soon as chaos erupts among the people, Xuancheng will fall without us attacking it. Zhongshan''s reputation will be ruined. A few more days of siege won''t let him turn the tables. Follow Zhengde''s n," scolded the ancestral Su family.


    "Yes," Su Lian Xian could only nod. But his expression remained tense, as did the others. After all, this was the best course of action for now.


    Three dayster.


    Inside the Zhong residence in Xuancheng, Zhongshan sat with his eyes closed on the grand chair. Before him stood Zhong Tian, Zhong Zheng, and Enn, awaiting his instructions.


    Suddenly, Zhongshan paused, opening his eyes. "Alright, prepare as I instructed. The decisive battle will be today. I want all the transcendent experts to perish, and I want the entire eight hundred thousand army under my control."


    "Yes!" the three of them eximed excitedly.


    "Go," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Yes!" Zhong Tian, Zhong Zheng, and Enn responded eagerly.


    In the early morning, in the main tent where the transcendent experts gathered, the ancestral Su family sat at the head, holding a cup of tea, furrowing their brows in thought. Below, the others were engaged in discussions.


    Since being reprimanded by the ancestral Su family three days ago, Su Lian Xian had remained silent and grave.


    "It''s been several days already. Why hasn''t there been any internal unrest in the city?" the ancestral Su family asked sternly.


    Su Zhengde immediately replied, "Ancestral Elder, it should be happening soon. Even if there are still reserves, the firewood has long been depleted. Nowadays, they''re burning furniture every day, or rather, they''re burning rafters. The hearts of the people must be wavering. Just a little more waiting, and everything will be fine."


    "Humph, how do you know what''s happening inside the city?" Su Lian Xian red.


    "Father, Xuancheng has a poption of a million. The daily consumption is unimaginable," Su Zhengde confidently replied.


    "Report��!" A voice of urgency suddenly came from outside the tent, followed by an unannounced intrusion.


    The neer, dressed as a scout, was covered in blood, with disheveled hair and multiple injuries.


    He knelt before Su Zhengde as soon as he entered the tent.


    "Your Majesty, something terrible has happened! General Lin led three hundred thousand troops into the capital city and breached the Imperial Pce. All the royal family members were beheaded at the southern gate of the capital city at dusk yesterday. The Crown Prince also died for the country. The Imperial Pce has been reduced to ruins, and the people of the capital city are in a panic, fleeing in haste."


    "Lin Xiao!" Su Zhengde mmed the table in anger, standing up with a furious roar.


    Other transcendent experts also stood up, wearing expressions of disbelief as they looked at the soldier before them. Lin Xiao? Themander of heavy troops who had always guarded the borders, defending against the aggression of the Great Song Empire? How could he suddenly lead troops into the capital? Has he betrayed us? The entire Su family lineage wiped out? The shock of this moment was immense, too much toprehend. Has the world suddenly turned upside down?


    "I swear to annihte your entire n," Su Zhengde dered angrily.


    "Report��!" Amidst the raging anger towards Lin Xiao''s treason, another urgent shout came from outside the tent.


    Another scout rushed in, ckened with soot and with singed hair, as if just returning from a fire.


    The soldier knelt before Su Zhengde and bowed.


    "Your Majesty, something terrible has happened! The food and supplies stored in Tunyu and Xishan suddenly went up in messt night. The grain officials were found dead in their tents without exnation. The fire spread too quickly, and in the blink of an eye, all the supplies turned to ashes."


    The soldier reported quickly, his voice trembling with fear.


    "Crash!"


    Su Zhengde unconsciously knocked over the tea cup on the table. This was catastrophic news, absolutely catastrophic. The food supplies had been destroyed?


    The presence of the eight hundred thousand-strong army stationed here relied on those supplies. Food was the lifeblood of the army. With the food gone, the morale of the troops would copse, and the battle would be lost.


    "An eye for an eye. We cut off Zhongshan''s food, and Zhongshan cut off ours. It must be Zhongshan, it must be Zhongshan''s doing," Su Zhengde eximed in shock.


    "Not only that, but Lin Xiao chose to rebel at the most critical moment? His closest target is the capital. If Lin Xiao seizes the capital, it will block our retreat. Now, with only a day''s worth of supplies left, even if we ration, we can only hold out for two days. It''s impossible to lead the army to other cities in such a short time. When the eight hundred thousand troops disperse, the throne of my Su family will bepletely meaningless," Su Lian Xian suddenly spoke up, his eyes filled with incredulity.

 Chapter 98: Siege Breaker

    <h4>Chapter 98: Siege Breaker</h4>


    As Su Lianxian finished speaking, everyone fell silent. Inside therge tent, there was a moment of contemtion as each person pondered the incredibility of the situation.


    If this group was truly orchestrated by Zhongshan, then Zhongshan was truly terrifying. Terrifying to the point that in just this short span of time, he could change the course of events, turning despairing circumstances into a formidable army of eight hundred thousand with no way out, leaving them to sit and wait for death. Would the morale of the army copse, with marauders rising from within?


    Even the ancestors of the Su family couldn''t help but feel astonished by the impact of these two pieces of intelligence. Years of secluded cultivation at the mountain gate made him almost forget the brutality of warfare in the mortal world.


    Given time, Zhongshan could indeed change the course of events!


    This was what Su Lianxian said, and all eyes turned to him once again, filled with sighs. How good it would have been to listen to Su Lianxian from the beginning.


    "Father," Su Zhengde looked ashamed as he nced at Su Lianxian. It was his judgment that led to the destruction of uncles, the crown prince, and all the princes of the Su family, leaving them in dire straits.


    Taking a deep breath, the ancestor of the Su family looked at Su Lianxian and said, "Lianxian, you shallmand from now on."


    Su Lianxian readily epted. This was not the time for resentment; the immediate priority was to navigate through the crisis at hand.


    "Yes, firstly, we must block these two pieces of information to prevent them from shaking the morale of the army," Su Lianxian said.


    "Father, rest assured," Su Zhengde immediately replied.


    "Secondly, swiftly recall fifty thousand troops from the other three gates and bring all the ballistae here. Let every soldier have a full meal, then, officially, at all costs,unch a full-scale assault from the south gate," Su Lianxian continued.


    "Bring the ballistae here too?" Su Zhengde questioned.


    "Yes, Ancheng has moats, and during the assault, there will be many archers on the walls, and the civilians may hurl stones. It might not be easy to attack from there, but we cannot afford to dy. Besides, I have inspected the city gates. Zhongshan has redesigned them in recent years. They can pour boiling oil from the city towers, making it difficult to use siege weapons. So, we will break through the gates with ballistae. If one arrow doesn''t pierce through, then ten, a hundred arrows will be fired simultaneously, ensuring a swift capture of the city," Su Lianxian exined.


    "Understood, I will make arrangements immediately," Su Zhengde said solemnly.


    "Then, let''s prepare as quickly as possible. The sooner we attack the city, the better," Su Lianxian urged.


    "Yes," Su Zhengde promptly responded, acknowledging the order.


    Three hourster, in the main camp south of Xuancheng, the twenty thousand strong army had swelled to thirty-five thousand in the blink of an eye. Before the formation, morale soared once more. The soldiers had eaten their fill, drunk their fill, and were now readying themselves for battle. The generals stamped their feet, and the sound of neighing horses filled the air. They awaited the arrival of their leaders.


    Inside a secluded tent in the camp stood two figures.


    Emperor Su Zhengde and his father, the former Emperor Su Lianxian.


    "Father, why have you summoned me at this critical moment when the army is preparing for battle?" Su Zhengde asked, puzzled.


    Looking at his chosen sessor to the throne, Su Lianxian''s expression turned grave. "Do you still not understand why I called for you?"


    Su Zhengde fell silent.


    "You ignored my advice before and now we face the consequences. We are about tounch a fierce attack on Xuancheng. You will stay behind tomand the troops," Su Lianxian said seriously.


    "Father, it shouldn''t be too difficult to take Xuancheng in one fell swoop. Once we capture it, all our problems will be solved. Is there... is there something troubling you, Father?" Su Zhengde asked, astonished.


    "Yes, I know Zhongshan too well. He is my true adversary. For years, I have tried to understand him but he remains elusive. Zhongshan must have some hidden cards up his sleeve. We cannot afford to lose, especially you. After this, our Su family might only have you left," Su Lianxian adjusted Su Zhengde''s clothes solemnly.


    "Father, how can that be possible?" Su Zhengde''s expression was incredulous.


    "Zhongshan aims to wipe out our Su family line. Now, only a few of us remain. I can die, even our ancestors can pass on, but you cannot. You are not only the heir to the Su family bloodline but also a symbol. As long as you exist, Zhongshan''s im to power will never be legitimate. No matter how high his prestige, the Great Kun Empire still belongs to our Su family, to you as the Emperor. As long as you live, there is hope for aeback. As for me, I have no regrets in death. As for our ancestors, at a hundred and sixty years old, it''s unlikely they''ll achieve the Golden Core stage. They can contribute to the Su family by fighting for us," Su Lianxian said, his eyes zing.


    Hearing Su Lianxian''s words, Su Zhengde felt a pang in his heart, realizing that his father had kept this from their ancestors.


    "As long as our ancestors and I join the battle, other innate masters will have no reason to stay out of it. This will also give you a pretext to keep Wei Taizhong by your side. He has been in the pce for decades, watching you grow up. He should be able to protect you. Remember, you must stay alive and preserve thest trace of the Su family bloodline," Su Lianxian instructed.


    "Yes, Father," Su Zhengde''s eyes were slightly moist.


    "Alright, I am just preparing for the worst. Perhaps this time, we will win decisively and y Zhongshan once and for all," Su Lianxian said, smiling.


    "Yes, Father. Since I became emperor, I''ve be arrogant. Many things have disappointed you, and I have been unfilial," Su Zhengde said with a tinge of sadness.


    Su Lianxian gently patted Su Zhengde''s shoulder, then smiled faintly and walked out of the tent. With Su Zhengde''s words, Su Lianxian felt that everything was enough.


    Outside the tent, the old eunuch Wei Taizhong waited respectfully.


    "Taizhong, since I didn''t abdicate, you have been faithfully serving within the pce. I trust you deeply. You''ve watched Zhengde grow up. If anything happens today, I will rely on you to take care of him in the future," Su Lianxian said.


    Wei Taizhong looked at Su Lianxian and nodded. "Yes."


    With Wei Taizhong''s promise, Su Lianxian strode towards the gathering ce of the army. In the instant Su Lianxian left, a cold smile crept onto Wei Taizhong''s lips.


    Before the army, the ancestor of the Su family, apanied by two innate masters from each of the four major families, had already mounted their horses, awaiting Su Lianxian''s arrival.


    Su Lianxian approached on horseback.


    The Su family ancestor frowned. "Where is Zhengde? And Wei Taizhong?"


    "In this great battle, we will personally lead the charge. Victory is certain. I have left Zhengde in charge of a hundred thousand troops to guard here. This will not only prevent attacks from all directions but also allow him to oversee the overall situation. After all, he is the Emperor of the Great Kun Empire and needs to stabilize the military," Su Lianxian exined.


    Su Lianxian''s exnation was full of loopholes, but the Su family ancestor seemed not to notice. He simply nodded and didn''t inquire further.


    "Move out," Su Lianxian shouted.


    The two hundred and fifty thousand strong army roared in unison as they marched towards the southern gate of Xuancheng, various siege weapons aimed at the city. The ten innate masters rode among them. Today, Xuancheng must be taken.


    As the army marched towards Xuancheng''s southern gate, Su Zhengde emerged from the main tent and ascended themand tform. He personally picked up the drumsticks and beat the drum to bid farewell to the army.


    Below themand tform, Wei Taizhong watched coldly from a corner��


    In Xuancheng, Zhongshan leaned against the railing of the city tower, his face filled with confidence as he watched the increasing number of troops gathering at the southern gate.


    Within the city, preparations had long been underway. Zhongshan was confident of victory in this battle. Despite having only eight thousand soldiers and thirty thousand newly recruited youths, for Zhongshan, it was sufficient. Because Xuancheng, decades ago, had undergone significant transformations, making it unlike any ordinary city.


    As the enemy forces pressed closer, more and more soldiers gathered outside the city''s moat. Ten top-notch martial experts sat atop their horses within the army, gazing towards the forty-meter-wide moat. On the opposite bank, about fifty meters from the city walls,y their target. Fifty meters, precisely within the range of the archers stationed on the city walls. Crossing the moat meant facing a barrage of arrows, making it difficult to transport siege weapons. Even if they managed to transport them, by the time they reached the city walls, most would be dead or injured.


    Moreover, directly opposite the city gate, arge bridge had been dismantled by Zhongshan''s men in recent days. How were they supposed to attack the city without it?


    Even the massive traction trebuchet could only be effective once set up on the opposite bank.


    As the martial experts observed the scene, resentment filled their hearts. The defense of Xuancheng was unexpectedly tight.


    "Su Lianxian, have you finally decided to attack the city?" Zhongshan''s cold voice echoed from the city tower in the distance.


    All the martial experts turned to Su Lianxian. It had been established earlier that Su Lianxian would be the overallmander for this campaign. Su Lianxian himself had a formidable reputation, having led troops into battle frequently during his time as emperor.


    Su Lianxian paid no attention to Zhongshan but instead stared at the massive city gate before him.


    "Construct and bridge!" Su Lianxian roared at the top of his lungs, willing to pay any price at this moment.


    It was already toote to fill the moat, but Su Lianxian had his own methods.


    "Charge!" The army shouted in unison as the first batch of infantry swiftly carried long wooden rafts forward. They quicklyunched the rafts into the moat, followed by the second batch of infantry with more rafts. The infantrymen rapidly created and bridge on the river, connecting the rafts together. This would facilitate a swift assault by the army.


    "Brother Lianxian is indeed formidable. I had been wondering why we were carrying these rafts, but now I understand," eximed one martial expert excitedly.


    The thought of the abundance of rafts filled everyone with excitement. It wouldn''t be long before the moat became irrelevant.


    "I''ve been preparing these rafts for twenty years for this day," Su Lianxian said solemnly. There was no hint of pride in his tone; instead, it was filled with solemnity.


    Twenty years... He had been preparing to attack Xuancheng twenty years ago? And had devised various siege measures?


    As the martial experts reveled in their triumph, Zhongshan, on the city tower in the distance, seemed to anticipate their move, a barely perceptible smile ying at the corners of his mouth.

 Chapter 99: The Past

    <h4>Chapter 99: The Past</h4>


    The army was well-trained, as if they had been practicing raft-building for a long time. In just a short while, they had constructed a raft tform connecting both banks of the river, allowing the army to step onto the rafts and reach the opposite side of the moat.


    During this brief period, Zhongshan had refrained from giving the order to attack. The archers on the city walls had a range of only fifty meters, and even if they shot, the force wouldn''t be significant. Sending troops to open the city gates was also a risky move with limited soldiers. It was better to conserve strength and wait. Furthermore, the raft blockade was within Zhongshan''s calctions.


    "Charge!" Su Lianxian brandished his sword and shouted ahead.


    "Charge!" The army echoed in unison, swiftly transporting siegedders and traction trebuchets towards the opposite bank. Although the soldiers were shaking on the rafts, they managed to charge across, carrying siege equipment towards the enemy''s walls.


    "Release arrows!" Zhongshan spoke lightly from atop the city wall.


    Beside him, Yinn swiftly waved a red g. The soldiers on the wall had already prepared a barrage of arrows, and as soon as the red g was waved, a deluge of arrows rained down on the soldiers who had justnded ashore.


    Countless soldiers were killed or injured in an instant, with many falling dead as soon as they crossed the river.


    On the battlefield, there was no retreat. The army relentlessly charged across the moat, transforming into corpses strewn across the blood-soaked ground. It was a scene of brutality, with blood flowing like rivers and bodies littering the field. Yet, the army continued to charge towards the opposite bank, continuously transporting siege equipment, including the traction trebuchets.


    Some soldiers even took out bows and arrows after crossing the river, shooting towards the defenders on the city walls. However, the force behind their arrows was nothingpared to those shot from the top of the wall. Although some unfortunate defenders were hit, the casualties were far fewer than those below.


    Zhongshan coldly observed the carnage on both sides. Despite his side having the advantage of higher ground, their numbers were too fewpared to the enemy''s overwhelming force. It was inevitable that the enemy would eventually breach the city walls using human lives, but Zhongshan wasn''t concerned.


    His gaze locked onto Su Lianxian in the distance, the only person among the army whom Zhongshan regarded highly. It was Su Lianxian who, years ago, had made a pact with him, ensuring that he remained uninvolved in the politics of the Great Kun Nation for so many years.


    Su Lianxian was a capable man.


    Reminiscing about the past, after Kui''er was killed by the Crown Prince Li Tian, Zhongshan fell into a period of deep despair. He became like a ghost, wandering aimlessly. Eventually, he disappeared from the public eye and enlisted in the border army. Despite being a supremely respected figure in the business world, Zhongshan quickly demonstrated his talent for warfare. With his mastery of strategy and tactics, Zhongshan became a formidable warrior. However, there was another formidable warrior at the time: Su Lianxian.


    Su Lianxian, though of princely status, also hid his identity and started from the ranks ofmon soldiers. On the battlefield, he and Zhongshan fought side by side, facing enemy forces from all directions. Yet, despite his skill, Su Lianxian always fell slightly shortpared to Zhongshan. Still, he managed to catch Zhongshan''s attention.


    As Zhongshan struggled with his grief, he encountered the second woman who would capture his heart: Bao''er. Bao''er''s gentleness and care gradually pulled Zhongshan out of his anguish. However, Su Lianxian also set his eyes on Bao''er.


    Using all his abilities, Su Lianxian pursued Bao''er relentlessly. Despite Zhongshan''s efforts, Su Lianxian revealed his true identity as the Crown Prince, wielding his authority to pressure those close to Bao''er. But could Zhongshan allow Su Lianxian to seed?


    Though Zhongshan''s military career was rtively short, his prestige was immense. When Zhongshan asserted himself, even seasoned generals rallied behind him. In fact, there were moments when it seemed the entire border army would rebel in support of Zhongshan''s bid for power.


    Realizing his defeat, Su Lianxian nevertheless held the lifeline of Bao''er''s loved ones. He pushed Bao''er to the brink of exhaustion. Eventually, Zhongshan and Su Lianxian sat down to negotiate. Zhongshan agreed to retire from military and political affairs, leaving Su Lianxian free to pursuemerce, and Bao''er was finally released from her ordeal.


    Now, two formidable figures found themselves at odds once again, tearing apart their fragile truce. After an hour, tens of thousandsy dead on the opposing side, rivers of blood staining the earth. Yet, the enemy continued their relentless assault.


    Finally, the siege engines breached the enemy''s defenses. After the loss of twenty thousand soldiers, the true battle had only just begun.


    "Attack the city!" Su Lianxian roared from across the river.


    The soldiers echoed his cry, their determination unwavering. Withdders in hand, they stormed the walls, relentless in their advance. Despite the rain of arrows from above, they pressed on. The battle was reaching its climax, the oue hanging in the bnce. If the enemy breached the walls, the defense would copse entirely.


    At that moment, a blue g unfurled atop the city tower, signaling a change. With a wave, the archers retreated, leaving the enemy momentarily ted.


    Then, a thunderous sound filled the air.


    As if summoned from the heavens, cascades of golden liquid rained down.


    "Ah~" The soldiers cried out as the golden liquid touched them. Though not forceful, it seemed more effective than arrows. Each soldier touched by the golden liquid clutched their bodies and fell from thedders. This oil, boiling and rolling, had been strategically prepared by Yinn atop the city walls. Poured from pots onto thedders below, it caused agony and devastation. Every drop that touched a soldier''s skin erupted into a wound, blood bursting forth in torrents. The boiling oil was more terrifying than any weapon.


    Yet, the enemy army pressed on. Shielded by their shields, they risked their lives climbing toward the city walls. The edge of thedders seemed to catch fire suddenly, mes licking at the wood, aiming to destroy them and force the attackers back. It was a brutal and desperate scene.


    But for a leader, casualties were a secondary concern. Su Lianxian had nned for sacrifices.


    The true weapon wasn''t these foot soldiers��they were merely distractions for the defenders of Xuan City.


    The true weapony in the 120 eight-ox crossbows.


    After nearly forty thousand casualties and countless bodies littering the ground, the crossbows were finally positioned.


    "Fire!" Su Lianxian''s voice boomed with seriousness.


    At hismand, all 120 crossbows released their bolts simultaneously. The massive arrows hurtled toward the city gates, theirbined force capable of piercing even a small fortress wall.


    "Boom!" A deafening roar shook the entire city tower. A cloud of smoke descended, and the walls trembled under the impact. The force was staggering.


    However, the southern gate of Xuan City remained intact, albeit now pierced by 120 giant arrows. It still stood closed.


    Even the preeminent masters of the martial world, including the venerable ancestors of the Su family, were astonished. How was it possible that 120 arrows failed to breach the city gate?


    "Fire again!" Only Su Lianxian remainedposed, issuing the order to continue.


    In the distance, the siege continued unabated, and the soldiers manning the eight-ox crossbows continued to load giant arrows. However, the immense force of these bows required thirty men to draw them simultaneously, slowing the process considerably.


    With each passing moment, more lives were lost.


    "Lianxian, are these the famed eight-ox crossbows? How is it that none of the 120 arrows pierced the city gate?" The venerable ancestor of the Su family eximed in disbelief.


    "These are indeed the finest military-grade eight-ox crossbows. The failure to breach the gate is due to its construction��it''s made entirely of thick bronze," Su Lianxian exined solemnly, indicating that he had thoroughly studied the gate beforehand.


    "What shall we do then?" The Su family ancestor asked with concern.


    "Don''t worry. At most, three attempts. With the eight-ox crossbows, three volleys will breach the gate, and then we can storm into Xuan City and im Zhongshan''s head," Su Lianxian dered solemnly.


    "Understood," the others nodded, recognizing that this was the only course of action, even if it meant more casualties.


    On the city wall, Zhongshan watched the distant eight-ox crossbows with a cold smirk. Indeed, with 120 bolts, three volleys could breach the gate. But each volley required considerable time, during which your soldiers would be demoralized by the specter of death.


    Half an hourter...


    "Boom!" The second volley of eight-ox crossbow bolts struck the city gate, causing the tower to tremble once more. At that moment, the gate began to buckle inward, deformed by the impact. One more volley, and the gate would be breached.


    The martial masters cheered in excitement. One more volley, and victory would be theirs. Su Lianxian had proven himself a master of siege warfare. Yet, Su Lianxian himself showed no hint of satisfaction; instead, he became even more solemn.

 Chapter 100: A Series of Connected Strategies

    <h4>Chapter 100: A Series of Connected Strategies</h4>


    "Lianxian, what''s wrong? The city gate is about to breach, why do you look so troubled?" The venerable ancestor of the Su family questioned.


    "It''s too easy, something doesn''t feel right. It''s too easy," Su Lianxian shook his head in confusion.


    "What''s too easy?" the Su family ancestor asked, while other martial masters also turned their attention to Su Lianxian.


    "The siege is too easy. The city is about to fall? This doesn''t fit Zhongshan''s style; he couldn''t be this ipetent," Su Lianxian expressed his distress.


    "Easy? We''ve lost fifty thousand lives for this siege. How can you call it easy?" a nearby martial master couldn''t believe it.


    "Zhongshan couldn''t be this ipetent. There should be more casualties, at least eighty thousand. It''s not right, not right," Su Lianxian shook his head, his face tense with worry.


    Hearing Su Lianxian suggest eighty thousand casualties, the others were shocked. How could that be possible? Fifty thousand losses were already excessive; how could Su Lianxian make it sound easy?


    "Lianxian, perhaps you''re overthinking it. Zhongshan might not be as formidable as you think," the Su family ancestor tried to reassure.


    "No, don''t underestimate Zhongshan. We must not underestimate Zhongshan," Su Lianxian emphasized.


    "Let''s wait and see. The city gate is about to fall. Once it does, killing Zhongshan will be enough," the Su family ancestor consoled.


    "Let''s hope so," Su Lianxian nodded. But his furrowed brow didn''t ease.


    On the city wall, most of thedders had been burned, leaving only a few struggling amidst the mes. The arrows had been mostly replenished, awaiting thepletion of their load for the third wave.


    Zhongshan stood atop the city tower, taking a deep breath. A glint of determination shed in his eyes. "Yinn, initiate the second phase of the n."


    "Yes," Yinn immediately responded, producing a purple g and swiftly waving it.


    Soon after, arge number of soldiers on the city wall quickly retreated, abandoning their defensive positions. Zhongshan lightly tapped the railing of the tower before turning and descending with Yinn. Following their lead, the defenders also began to fall back.


    Zhongshan retreated? Zhongshan retreated?


    Sitting astride his horse on the opposite bank, Su Lianxian furrowed his brow as he watched the scene unfold. Did Zhongshan sense defeat? But why withdraw the defenders from all around the city wall? Why withdraw?


    "Haha, Zhongshan knows he''s beaten. Is he fleeing?" eximed an excited martial master.


    As the few remainingdders slowly ascended the city wall, their upants ready to sacrifice themselves for their country, they were met with an empty battlement. "Boom!" The third volley of arrows from the eight-ox crossbows struck the city gate, and with a resounding crash, the gate finally gave way, sted open by the immense force.


    The city was breached?


    This should have been a moment of jubtion, but no one could muster a cheer. With over fifty thousand casualties out of a force of two hundred and fifty thousand, and the enemy suffering less than a thousand casualties, with at most a hundred dead, it was a staggering cost. How many years had they fought wars, only for this to be the most humiliating defeat?


    The army surged forward into the city.


    But even in this humiliating battle, Su Lianxian couldn''t shake the feeling that it was too easy, too unbelievable. Something was wrong.


    "Marshal, the Xuan City defenders have retreated to the opposite bank of the inner city river, and they''ve destroyed the bridge behind them," a soldier reported hastily.


    "Not good. Zhongshan ns to escape from another city gate," Su Lianxian eximed, suddenly rmed.


    Dismounting quickly, he headed towards the opposite bank. Clearly, their forces had already taken control of the opposite side, ensuring their safety from the arrows of the Xuan City defenders.


    The martial masters also dismounted swiftly, following Su Lianxian onto the makeshift rafts.


    Once across the river, Su Lianxian spoke up, "Half of the rafts, dismantle them and use the wood to fill the river inside the city."


    "Yes," the apanying soldiers immediately nodded in agreement.


    Su Lianxian, apanied by nine martial masters, swiftly charged into the city gate amidst the sea of corpses, crossing through the breached gate and rushing into the inner city.


    The army quickly began dismantling the rafts to follow suit. However, at the moment of dismantling, they noticed something peculiar. The once slightly murky moat suddenly turned ck, growing darker by the moment.


    As Su Lianxian reached the inner river, he found the army halted by the mighty river. They couldn''t proceed.


    "Swim across," Su Lianxian bellowed.


    At that moment, not far from the opposite bank, Zhongshan''s figure appeared once again.


    With calmposure, Zhongshan was followed by Zhong Tian, Zhong Zheng, and Yinn, while the army slowly emerged from nearby buildings, all directing their gaze towards the martial masters on the opposite bank.


    "Zhongshan!" Su Lianxian shouted.


    "We''ve been waiting for you toe out for half a day," Zhongshan suddenly retorted coldly.


    With that, he took out a match, and in a situation iprehensible to those across the river, he tossed the match into the river before them.


    "Boom!"


    To the bewilderment of everyone, the river burst into mes, the towering inferno rising into the sky. The roaring mes instantly extinguished the mes of war burning in the hearts of countless soldiers.


    Before, under Su Lianxian''smand, a few had managed to swim across the river. But now, with the raging fire, each one emitted a wretched scream.


    "Ah!"


    ... The cries echoed as if they were resonating in the hearts of all the soldiers.


    "Not good, retreat!" Su Lianxian eximed anxiously.


    However, in the instant of turning back, they were horrified to find that the moat outside the city gate was also engulfed in towering mes.


    The first sixty thousand troops that had charged in were now trapped.


    Fear gripped everyone. What to do?


    A bitter smile appeared on Su Lianxian''s face. Zhongshan, Zhongshan! Defeated again, defeated again!


    "Soldiers, listen up! These ten are the culprits for the attack on our Xuan City. As long as these ten are dead, I will overlook the past. The Su family is no longer fit to rule the Great Kun Nation. Anyone who kills these ten will be rewarded with ten thousand gold coins," Zhongshan solemnly dered.


    His words were like a shot of adrenaline to the hearts of the soldiers. Some of the more sinister-minded soldiers had already turned their gaze towards Su Lianxian and the others.


    "Haha, Zhongshan, trying to incite mutiny within my army? As long as my Su family emperor still sits on the throne, you will nevermand the Great Kun Nation''s army," Su Lianxian shouted across the inferno.


    "Is that so?" Zhongshan sneered.


    Just then, outside the city gate, beyond the moat, a chorus of wails suddenly echoed, capturing everyone''s attention.


    Turning their heads, they saw Wei Taizhong, a eunuch, seated atop arge horse, holding up a severed head. The head belonged to none other than the Emperor of the Great Kun Nation, Su Zhengde.


    "My son!" Su Lianxian roared with eyes zing red.


    "Archers, ready!" A general''smand rang out not far from Su Lianxian.


    With thatmand, a multitude of archers raised their bows and aimed them all at the ten martial masters.


    As the bows were drawn, tensions rose on both sides of the river. Some guarded Su Lianxian and the others, while others began to align with the general, ready to rebel. If even Emperor Yanyan had died, did they have to follow suit?


    Satisfied with the obedient general, Zhongshan knew that he had the right person leading the charge.


    "Elder, there are surely many archers on the opposite bank of the moat. We''re at a disadvantage now. The only way is to kill Zhongshan. Once Zhongshan is dead, we can turn the tide. It''s up to you now, Elder," Su Lianxian shouted.


    "Alright," Su''s elder readily agreed, feeling the gravity of the moment.


    The bloodline of the Su family now rested solely on Su Lianxian''s shoulders.


    "Release the arrows!" the general suddenlymanded.


    At his order, a deluge of arrows rained down towards the martial masters. With the conflict fully escted, the soldiers no longer held back. Of course, many soldiers positioned themselves in front of the important figures, shielding them from the arrow storm.


    But how long could they hold out?


    Despite the raging inferno on the river, the martial masters remained unperturbed. They were just reluctant to take the lead. Now, pushed to their limits, they had no choice but to take the lead.


    The ten martial masters, one by one, leapt towards the opposite bank. Midway through their journey, theynded in the river, using their feet to push off the zing surface, propelling themselves to the other side. Though their feet left oily streaks that ignited fires beneath them, a release of true energy extinguished them instantly.


    However, Zhongshan had been waiting for this moment for a long time.


    As the ten martial masters approached, Zhongshan gave themand without hesitation.


    "Release the arrows," Yinn suddenly ordered.


    "Whoosh!"


    The arrows flew, a deadly volley aimed at their approaching adversaries.


    Even so, the imprecise volley of arrows caused five of the ten martial masters, including four from the major families, to be struck and fall into the fieryke below.


    The intense heat left these early-stage martial masters powerless, their agonizing screams piercing the air as they met their horrific demise.


    It was a scene of unparalleled brutality.


    The five martial masters who managed to cross the river continued their furious charge towards Zhongshan. But before they could reach him, the second volley of arrows, now apanied by the powerful bolts from the eight-ox crossbows, rained down upon them.


    Therge arrows directly targeted Su''s elder, but his strength seemed to surpass even that of the elders from the four major families. He was only pierced through the left shoulder by dozens of arrows. As for the remaining four martial masters on the opposite side, three were killed by the second volley of arrows, including Su Lianxian, who had been orchestrating the operation.


    Su Lianxian could never have imagined that his death would be so anticlimactic. Despite his initial concerns and precautions against arrow attacks, he ultimately fell victim to them.


    Pierced by fifteen arrows in total, he met his end.

 Chapter 101: Long Live, Long Live, Long Live Forever

    <h4>Chapter 101: Long Live, Long Live, Long Live Forever</h4>


    "Roar~~~" Su Family Patriarch''s eyes were bloodshot as he roared and charged towards Zhong Shan.


    Was this thest drop of bloodline in the mundane world? All focused on Zhong Shan before their eyes.


    Brandishing his long sword, the Su Family Patriarch recklessly lunged forward, disregarding his life. Seeing this, Zhong Shan furrowed his brows, swiftly drew his sword without dying, and retreated violently. With a leap, he jumped onto the roof and fled into the distance.


    Zhong Shan had to distance himself from the crowd because his most important person was still there and couldn''t afford to be involved. Indeed, some crazed Su Family Patriarchs only recognized Zhong Shan, so when Zhong Shan retreated, they followed closely behind. The archers dared not shoot again, for fear of identally hitting Lord Zhong.


    With a multitude of archers and Zhong Tian handling thest Primordial, Zhong Shan only had to face one Patriarch.


    Running swiftly on the rooftops, Zhong Shan remainedposed. When he reached the fourth level of Primordial, his speed surpassed that of a Bronze Corpse. Now, he was already at the fifth level.


    Gradually, the entire face of the Su Family Patriarch turned purple.


    "The arrows are poisoned," the Su Family Patriarch suddenly eximed.


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly ahead, "Indeed, the faster you run, the faster the poison spreads."


    "You scoundrel!" the Su Family Patriarch roared angrily. He swung his long sword fiercely towards Zhong Shan, unleashing a huge sword qi that was about to reach Zhong Shan in an instant.


    Seeing the direction of the long sword, Zhong Shan began to dodge. By the time the sword qi appeared, Zhong Shan''s body had almost deviated from its trajectory, and the sword qi passed by in an instant.


    Seeing this scene, the Su Family Patriarch was extremely incredulous. How could he dodge the sword qi?


    Zhong Shan, of course, didn''t exin, only looked at the heavily injured and poisoned Su Family Patriarch.


    Slowly, Zhong Shan had already circled around Xuan City with the Su Family Patriarch. The Patriarch''s speed was also getting slower and slower.


    "Spurt~~~" The Su Family Patriarch spat out a mouthful of ck blood. His face was slightly ckened.


    "Bang~~~"


    Suddenly, from a courtyard to the west, more than thirtyrge arrows from the Eight Oxen Crossbows shot out with incredible speed and suddenness. With just a re from the Su Family Patriarch, he was pinned to a thick wall in the distance.


    Standing on a rooftop, Zhong Shan looked coldly at the Su Family Patriarch. There were more than a dozen such courtyards scattered throughout Xuan City, meticulously arranged by himself, waiting for this most dangerous moment.


    Satisfied with a nce at the courtyard, Zhong Shan retraced his steps and quickly returned to the bank of the inner river.


    The mes in the river were still burning, but all the Primordial experts had been cut down.


    As Zhong Shan approached, the people inside Xuan City were filled with infinite admiration, even including Ying Lan and others who had participated in it. The ten Primordials, who had hidden in the army for fear of death, were all trapped by Zhong Shan''s sessive stratagems and fell into his deadly trap.


    On the opposite bank, most of the soldiers trapped by the fire showed fear, resentment, and despair, each with a different expression.


    Looking across the river, Zhong Shan solemnly said, "Those who surrender, today''s events shall be forgiven."


    After Zhong Shan finished speaking, the people on the opposite bank fell silent. The person who had previously shot the arrows quickly fell to the ground and worshipped, "Long live, long live, long live forever."


    Such rebellious words, yet he actually shouted "long live" to Zhong Shan. But what could they do now? All ten Primordials were dead, and the emperor was dead too. Although they were not clear about the situation in the capital, they knew one thing: the Su Family''s power was doomed.


    "Long live, long live, long live forever."


    More soldiers on the opposite bank began to shout.


    Ying Lan, Zhong Tian, and Zhong Zheng also knelt down.


    "Long live, long live, long live forever."


    Like a chain reaction, the city''s defenders, merchants, and citizens of Xuan City all quickly knelt down.


    "Long live, long live, long live forever."


    One wave after another, one round after another.


    Chanting "long live," chanting "long live Zhong Shan."


    More and more people on the opposite bank knelt down.


    Long live, long live, long live forever!


    On the opposite bank of the moat, soldiers began to kneel down one after another. In just a moment, more than half of them had knelt.


    However, there were still some who didn''t kneel, loyalists of the Great Kun Kingdom.


    "General Lin Xiao has captured the capital city, and the Su Family, the royal family of the Great Kun Kingdom, has lost all its bloodline," a voice suddenly rang out from outside the moat, as if it crushed thest bit of resistance in all the soldiers.


    Long live, long live, long live forever!


    More and more people began to chant long live to Zhong Shan who stood there. Of course, on one hand, it was because of the situation, but on the other hand, it was also due to Zhong Shan''s god-like means.


    Burning the river? How could a mighty river suddenly burst into mes? Could water even catch fire? This must be the will of the heavens, surely the heavens were blessing Zhong Shan for such a phenomenon.


    To not kneel at this moment would be defying the heavens.


    At this moment, both the mes in the moat and the inner river gradually diminished. Zhong Shan knew that the oil inside had burned out. If Su Lianxian had known that the oil would only burn for a short period of time, he wouldn''t have recklessly charged to his death. Victory was not yet certain, but Su Lianxian didn''t know, and not knowing meant only defeat.


    Simrly, the soldiers didn''t know that after chanting long live, the mes in the river slowly extinguished. This must be the arrangement of the heavens; the wrath of the heavens had diminished.


    Was Zhong Shan protected by heaven and earth?


    Long live, long live, long live forever!


    At this moment, the soldiers who had been somewhat resistant finallypromised.


    At the southern gate, everyone knelt down, chanting long live and worshipping Zhong Shan together.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan finally took his first step forward.


    "Rise, all of you. Officers, tally up your troops and casualties," Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    "Yes," the soldiers on the opposite bank got up one by one and began to do as Zhong Shan instructed.


    At this moment, Wei Taizhong, on the opposite bank of the moat, slowly approached, holding a whisk.


    Zhong Shan slowly looked at the corpses of the Primordial experts.


    When he saw Su Lianxian, a hint of admiration shed in his eyes. Su Lianxian was indeed a hero of his time. It was a joy to have such a worthy opponent in life, but he had to die.


    "Bury him properly," Zhong Shan pointed to Su Lianxian and said.


    "Yes," some guards behind him immediately bowed.


    "Wait a moment," a sudden voice interrupted.


    Wei Taizhong suddenly walked up to Su Lianxian, looking at the fifteen arrows on his body, his eyes filled with malice, as if he harbored an extreme hatred towards him.


    "Give me this corpse," Wei Taizhong said, hatred dripping from his words as he looked at the body.


    "You scoundrel, who do you think you are?" Suddenly, Ying Lan eximed angrily. With Zhongshan having just established his authority, how could anyone dare to betray trust at this moment? Zhongshan''s words now were like the decree of the heavens, unquestionable by anyone.


    Hearing Ying Lan''s words, Wei Taizhong''s eyes turned cold, turning to re at her with a hint of bloodthirsty malice in his eyes.


    "Ying Lan, silence," Zhongshan suddenlymanded.


    At Zhongshan''smand, Wei Taizhong''s previously cold eyes paused for a moment, a look of astonishment appearing on his face as he gazed at Ying Lan, who was ring at him angrily. The malice in his eyes transformed into a hint of tenderness, a hint of kindness.


    Ying Lan? She was Ying Lan?


    "Ying Lan, do not contradict. He is Wei Taizhong, he is..." Zhongshan was about to reveal Wei Taizhong''s identity when Wei Taizhong''s expression changed, immediately interrupting, "Your Majesty, Taizhong has lost control. General Ying Lan is right, please forgive Taizhong."


    Frowning at Wei Taizhong, Zhongshan nodded slightly, no longer mentioning Wei Taizhong''s identity, and gently said, "Then let this corpse be buried properly by your people."


    ncing at Ying Lan, who was ring at him angrily, Wei Taizhong showed no signs of anger, but immediately knelt down and said, "Yes, Your Majesty."


    Wei Taizhong understood Zhongshan''s intentions. Since he was ordered to bury the corpse, as long as he found another corpse to bury properly, Su Lianxian''s body would belong to him.


    Meanwhile, Ying Lan continued to coldly observe Wei Taizhong, unaware of his true identity.


    "Ying Lan," Zhongshan called out again.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," Ying Lan immediately responded.


    "Takemand of the Southern Gate troops, and lead them to subdue the other three gate troops," Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," Ying Lan replied promptly.


    "Wei Taizhong," Zhongshan called out.


    "Here, Your Majesty," Wei Taizhong answered immediately.


    "You will apany General Ying Lan and ensure her safety at all times," Zhongshanmanded.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, Wei Taizhong hesitated for a moment before a smile crept onto his face. "Thank you, Your Majesty."


    However, Ying Lan, seeing Wei Taizhong following along, felt no joy whatsoever. Even though he was a master of innate talent, Zhongshan''s attitude towards this person seemed to surpass his care for her. Who was he? Just an old eunuch of the emperor, while she was the granddaughter of the Duke.


    Ying Lan cast a cold nce at Wei Taizhong, but he seemed to be unperturbed, showing no signs of annoyance. With people carrying Su Lianxian''s body, he followed Ying Lan to organize the troops.


    "Zhong Zheng," Zhongshan called out again.


    "Here, Your Majesty," Zhong Zheng immediately responded.


    "You will oversee the entire city, assess the gains and losses, handle logistics, and fully cooperate with Ying Lan," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," Zhong Zhengplied.


    "Hmm," Zhongshan nodded, then walked back to the Zhong Mansion. Along the way, the people kneeled as they saw him, acknowledging Zhongshan''s newly established position.


    The heads of the eight prominent families of Xuan City couldn''t help but sigh with emotion. They had anticipated Zhongshan''s rise, but the arrival of this moment still filled everyone with awe.


    In front of a small courtyard in the Zhong Mansion, Zhongshan turned to Zhong Tiandao behind him, "Tian''er, guard outside the courtyard, and do not let anyone disturb."


    "Yes," Zhong Tiandao immediately responded.


    Entering the inner courtyard, Zhongshan again spoke to a corner, "Dark Emperor, no one is allowed to disturb."


    "Yes," came a voice from the corner.


    Arriving at the inner chamber, Zhongshan carefully opened a secretpartment and descended underground. In a hidden chamber, he closed the door tightly, lit candles, illuminating the chamber brightly. In the center was a cushion, and in front of it was a small table.


    Zhongshan slowly sat on the cushion and, from beneath the table, took out two objects very solemnly, cing them gently on the table.


    The Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade!


    The Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworm!

 Chapter 102: The Jade Seal of Heaven鈥檚 Mandate

    <h4>Chapter 102: The Jade Seal of Heaven''s Mandate</h4>


    The Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade, with its nine colorful divine dragons seeming to dance slowly on the jade as if they were about to break free from its restraint at any moment, soaring into the sky to be real dragons, ascending to the heavens.


    Gently, Zhongshan took out a translucent pearl, also known as the Heaven and Earth Furnace.


    As he looked at the translucent pearl, Zhongshan quickly cut open a wound on his hand and infused the pearl with his blood.


    In no time, the translucent pearl was fully refined by Zhongshan. However, instead of being transformed into something else, it remained a spherical shape. Zhongshan then slowly ced the Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade into it.


    As the Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade entered the translucent pearl, instantly, the nine divine dragons seemed toe alive, except for their tails, all of them detached from the jade and swiftly moved around. They even caused the translucent pearl to deform severely, attempting to break it open.


    However, they couldn''t break it, even though they struggled wildly.


    "Roar~~~"


    "Roar~~~"


    "Roar~~~"


    ... The furious roars of the nine dragons echoed continuously, struggling incessantly, trying to break through the Heaven and Earth Furnace and soar into the sky.


    Watching the raging dragons, Zhongshan smiled faintly. ording to the "Casting the Heavenly Court," the most perfect nine dragons, when put into the Heaven and Earth Furnace, would be extremely agitated, attempting to break free from the Translucent Pearl. Without a treasure to suppress them, they might even break through the Translucent Pearl, yielding nothing.


    Using a treasure to suppress them? Zhongshan had already figured it out long ago. If that treasure couldn''t suppress them, what other treasure in the world could?


    With a flick of his hand, he took out an object, a red sphere, the dragon eye-sized red sphere that had brought him from Earth to this ce initially.


    Zhongshan didn''t know what it was, nor did he need to know for the time being. He only knew it was a treasure, a supreme treasure.


    Gently, Zhongshan tossed the red sphere into the translucent pearl.


    As the red sphere entered the translucent pearl, the nine dragons hesitated for a moment, then, as if they had seen a mouse, a bachelor seeing a naked woman, they all rushed towards the red sphere. Even their original intention of breaking through the Heaven and Earth Furnace was forgotten.


    The nine dragons rushed towards the red sphere, opening their mouths as if they were willing to risk their lives to swallow the sphere.


    At the moment when the dragons opened their mouths, the red sphere emitted a faint red light. This tiny red light seemed to carry immense suppression power. The bodies of the nine dragons suddenly froze, as if they were imprisoned. However, their posture still showed their intent to seize the red sphere.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan understood the magical properties of the red sphere, but he still didn''t know what it was.


    He controlled the Translucent Pearl, quickly refining the huge Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade with the Heaven and Earth Furnace.


    Slowly, the Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade changed shape before Zhongshan, gradually transforming into the form of a giant jade seal.


    Above the seal, nine dragons coiled around, aiming for the central red sphere, while below, there was a square seal.


    Under Zhongshan''s control, the surface of the seal slowly revealed eightrge characters in reverse.


    "Bestowed by Heaven, Eternally Prosperous."


    These eight incredibly arrogant characters seemed to exude a feeling of dominating the heavens and earth.


    Bestowed by Heaven, Eternally Prosperous!


    When the seal was stamped, it would imprint these eight characters representing the divine mandate.


    Emperor''s jade seal, Nine Dragon Square Heaven.


    "Jade Seal of Heavenly Mandate," Zhongshan solemnly named it.


    From then on, this seal, with nine dragons entwined above, swallowing the divine pearl, and the inscription "Bestowed by Heaven, Eternally Prosperous" below, became Zhongshan''s sole seal.


    The Jade Seal of Heavenly Mandate would be the supreme symbol of the nation. Once stamped, it would shake the world, gather the nation''s fortune, gather the fortunes of heaven and earth, suppress the nation, suppress the dynasty, suppress the world.


    Gently, Zhongshan ced the Jade Seal of Heavenly Mandate on the table in front of him. Then, with a flick of his hand, he took out the Translucent Pearl again.


    Following the same process, he held up two Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworms with his other hand, along with the strands of colorful silkworm thread, and threw them all into the pearl.


    In Zhongshan''s eyes, the value of the two dragon silkworms was even higher than that of the Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade. He hadn''t nned to find them so soon, but it was his luck. With them, he would be even more invincible.


    The moment the two dragon silkworms were thrown into the Heaven and Earth Furnace, they began to struggle frantically, just like the nine dragons on the Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade, twisting desperately. Moreover, their strength was even greater than that of the nine dragons before.


    Zhongshan continued to shed his blood, continuously feeding the Heaven and Earth Furnace.


    The two dragon silkworms writhed for a while, finally provoked to the breaking point. Their skins ruptured, and slowly, two life forms about a foot long struggled out from within them. Two silver dragons emerged, more spirited than the nine dragons before them. One dragon dashed wildly in one direction, while the other did the same in another.


    What Zhongshan had to do now was to separate the two dragons, not allowing them to push in the same direction.


    Finally, after an hour, the two dragons ceased, or rather, appeared dead. It was a state between life and death, resembling humans in a vegetative state, motionless.


    Zhongshan''s face was a bit pale at this moment, but the significant loss of blood was worth it. Gradually, the two little dragons, each over a foot long, straightened out. At this moment, each dragon revealed nine ws, each w gripping what seemed like a piece of fabric, aplete cloth.


    All the original silkworm threads had transformed into something akin to brocade. A nine-meter-long brocade, with colors of the rainbow, even appearing as if colorful clouds were enveloping it.


    Imperial edict!


    The bodies of the two little dragons seemed to serve as the bearing for the imperial edict, while the colorful brocade seemed to be the main fabric of the edict.


    An imperial edict? Was this the final form of the Nine-Color Dragon Silkworms, resembling an imperial edict?


    However, behind the imperial edict were not the words "imperial edict."


    Slowly emerging were three seemingly illusory colorful characters.


    "The Register of Deities."


    The Register of Deities, as per "Forging the Heavenly Court," was used to reward and punish the world, to confer titles upon courtiers, and to decree the heavenlymands of the emperor. This Register of Deities would be the supreme authority of the world, influencing the fate of a nation. Itmunicated between heaven and earth, investigating the sentiments of the people.


    Bestow divinity upon orders, reward and punish heaven and earth.


    Of course, this was Zhongshan''s ultimate goal, although he was far from achieving it now.


    However, in the future, every imperial decree issued would have to pass through this "Register of Deities." Enfeoffing the world, listing gods on one decree.


    Afterpleting the "Heavenly Seal" and the "Register of Deities," Zhongshan took a moment to catch his breath before putting away these two items of founding significance. He rose gently, left the underground chamber, walked to the upper chamber, and headed outside.


    The sky was still dark. Zhongshan reached the courtyard gate, where Zhongtian patiently awaited.


    "Let''s go. Follow me to Yn Hall," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," Zhongtian nodded in response.


    The two returned to Yn Hall and waited patiently.


    As the sky began to brighten, Yinn rushed back first, excitement written all over her face.


    "Master Grandfather!" Yinn burst into the hall, grabbed a teacup, and took a big gulp of water.


    "How did it go?" Zhongshan asked.


    "There was some minor resistance, but I managed to suppress it with arge army. Coupled with those who died earlier, we''ve recruited a total of seven hundred thousand. They are all stationed outside the city. It won''t be long before I haveplete control over them. When the timees, Master Grandfather, wherever you wish to strike, we''ll strike," Yinn said excitedly.


    "Well done, Yinn. You''ve done excellently," Zhongshan never hesitated to praise.


    Indeed, under Zhongshan''s praise, Yinn''s face quickly lit up with happiness.


    "You train these troops well. From now on, they are your soldiers," Zhongshan said with a smile.


    "Alright!" Yinn nodded excitedly.


    "Train them well. The Great Kun Nation has more than just this small area. Before long, I hope you''ll be able to lead them to pacify rebellions from all corners and repel invasions from the five neighboring countries," Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Yes!" Yinn nodded eagerly.


    At this moment, Zhongzheng and Wei Taizhong also walked in from outside.


    "Father-inw, the people have been pacified, and everything is proceeding smoothly," Zhongzheng said excitedly.


    "Good." Zhongshan nodded in satisfaction.


    "Zheng''er, as I mentioned before, as soon as the Su family is destroyed, nearby cities will pledge allegiance to me. Immediately, start organizing the reception of cities from all directions, and have Yinn deploy troops to garrison them. If there are rebellious cities, don''t worry about them for now. Focus on taking control of the ones we can," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Yes," Zhongzheng replied promptly.


    "Your Majesty, when will you officially proim to the world and dere yourself emperor?" Wei Taizhong suddenly spoke up.


    As Wei Taizhong spoke, everyone turned to Zhongshan.


    "In two and a half months, on the seventh day of the seventh month, we will build a high tform, offer sacrifices to the heavens, and establish the nation," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Yes," everyone nodded in agreement.


    "Taizhong, you are familiar with this matter, you handle it," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," Wei Taizhong nodded.


    "As for Tian''er," Zhongshan looked at Zhongtian.


    "Father-inw, please give your orders," Zhongtian immediately said.


    "Tian''er, you were raised by me personally, and I know your abilities the best. I want you to go to the former capital of the Great Kun Nation, find the officials of the court, and invite them here to continue serving in their official capacities," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Yes," Zhongtian replied promptly.


    "Master Grandfather, wasn''t the capital upied by General Lin Xiao? Wait, General Lin Xiao also listens to Master Grandfather?" Yinn suddenly eximed in surprise.


    "That''s right. Lin Xiao. I didn''t expect him to wait for me for forty years. Tian''er, when you go there, be respectful to General Lin Xiao," Zhongshan reiterated to Zhongtian.


    "Yes, General Lin Xiao is a deity of the Great Kun [*]. Even without recent events, I still deeply respect him," Zhongtian said solemnly.


    "Mm," Zhongshan nodded.


    "Alright, you may go. Taizhong, stay," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," everyone responded and left one by one.


    Watching them leave, Wei Taizhong pondered slightly and said, "If it were you in the past, seeking out civil and military officials, you would have done it yourself. Why did you send Zhongtian instead?"


    Seating himself gently, Zhongshan lifted a cup of tea and took a sip. "Among the civil and military officials, apart from Lin Xiao, the others don''t hold as much value in my eyes. Theyck the exceptional talent or significance to warrant my personal attention," he remarked.

 Chapter 103: The Great Qiong Dynasty

    <h4>Chapter 103: The Great Qiong Dynasty</h4>


    "Yes," Wei Taizhong nodded.


    "Taizhong, are you still unwilling to acknowledge Yinn?" Zhongshan sighed.


    "Hehe, let''s keep it a secret. I am a eunuch, and I don''t want Yinn to know that I am his eunuch uncle. Big sister is dead, second brother is dead, and second brother''s son is also dead. Now it''s just me and Yinn. As long as Yinn can live happily, I''m content," Wei Taizhong shook his head with a sigh.


    Wei Taizhong, Kui''er''s third younger brother.


    Zhongshan looked at his nephew with a hint of helplessness in his eyes. "The past events weren''t entirely Su Lianxian''s fault."


    "Su Lianxian, hmph, I know it''s not all Su Lianxian''s fault, but if it weren''t for him, would my second brother have died in a foreignnd? My second brother''s most direct enemy wiped out your entire n, but I still want Su Lianxian dead. I want Su Lianxian''s n exterminated," Wei Taizhong''s eyes grew cold.


    "But you don''t have to degrade yourself like this," Zhongshan shook his head with a sigh.


    "I was originally a eunuch, what''s wrong with entering the pce? Miss Bao''er deserves my respect, but if it weren''t for Miss Bao''er, would you have spared Su Lianxian? I think you wouldn''t have. When you go mad, even immortals can''t stop you. But because of the oath you made for Miss Bao''er, I didn''t me you. At the same time, I also thank Miss Bao''er for giving me the opportunity to seek revenge personally. Over the decades, I sessfully infiltrated the center of power in the Su family. But topletely destroy the Su family, obviously that''s not possible. So I lured them here, tore up this oath for you, and could finally bring about theplete destruction of the Su family. This revenge is not just yours alone, but also mine. I''ve avenged it with my own hands," Wei Taizhong said excitedly, tears of sadness streaming down his cheeks.


    "Sigh, the matter is already in the past, and the Su family has been destroyed. In the future, you should enjoy your life," Zhongshan sighed.


    "No need, after so many years as the Grand Internal Manager, I''ve grown ustomed to it. Leaving this circle of power, I might not even befortable. Besides, I still hope you can avenge big sister. I will definitely assist you. Big sister''s spirit in heaven will also beforted," Wei Taizhong said solemnly.


    <i>Crack����</i>


    Zhongshan crushed the teacup in his hand.


    "Rest assured, the debt to Kui''er has always been on my mind. The Crown Prince, I will definitely use his head to pay tribute to Kui''er''s spirit in heaven. Moreover, regarding the Crown Prince, I have some clues now," Zhongshan said in a deep voice.


    "Clues? Do you know who the Crown Prince is?" Wei Taizhong immediately became excited.


    "I only have a vague idea. The Crown Prince is a true prince, a prince of a superpower. And I will definitely establish a superpower, conquer the kingdom of the Crown Prince, and kill the Crown Prince to avenge Kui''er," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Good, hahaha, good, hahaha," Wei Taizhong''s eyes flowed with tears of madness.


    "Mm," Zhongshan nodded.


    preparations for the ceremony were in ce, exuding an unparalleled solemnity. Below stood Zhong Tian, along with civil and military officials gathered from the former capital of the Great Kun Nation, as well as countless soldiers. Each of them stood upright, awaiting the arrival of the protagonist of today''s ceremony.


    Inside the Yn Hall of the Zhong Mansion in Xuan Cheng, a group of people stood before Zhongshan. Among them were Zhong Tian, Zhong Zheng, Yinn, Wei Taizhong, and a man with a square face, emanating an aura of dignity. His face was slightly flushed, giving him an even more imposing appearance.


    "Big brother, today is thest time I''ll call you big brother. After today, I''ll be your subject," the man said, his voice tinged with excitement.


    "Linxiao, remember, you and I will always be brothers, appearing as lord and subject in name, but truly like brothers," Zhongshan said solemnly to this former war god of the Great Kun.


    "Okay," Linxiao said excitedly, his eyes full of admiration as he looked at Zhongshan.


    "However, this time being able to establish the nation is all thanks to Linxiao''s timely action," Zhongshan immediately said.


    "For forty-two years, I, Linxiao, have been waiting for this day. When Su Lianxian threatened big brother back then, we were prepared to overthrow the Great Kun Nation. It''s just that you, big brother, were unwilling. Now that Su Lianxian has breached the contract, of course, we can''t be lenient. Otherwise, when will we have to wait? My life, big brother, you''ve saved it ten times. Even if I die of old age, I will make sure that my descendants for ten generations will follow you," Linxiao said solemnly.


    Zhongshan gently patted Linxiao, nodding deeply, feeling very touched.


    Then, Zhongshan looked at Yinn again, furrowing his brows slightly. "Yinn, what I mentioned before, after I be emperor, I will confer titles. Are you really not epting the title of princess?"


    "Yes, I only want to be a general. I don''t want the title of princess," Yinn said solemnly, with a glint in her eyes, as if she had some other ns of her own.


    Wei Taizhong, on the side, just frowned but didn''t say much. After all, it was Yinn''s own choice, and he could only support her.


    "Well then, you will be a general. You can still enjoy the fortune of the nation, and even if my country is destroyed by then, it will only affect me and the princes, not the courtiers," Zhongshan said to Yinn solemnly.


    This way, it also gave Yinn a way out, just in case.


    "No, Master Grandfather, if anything happens to you, Yinn will definitely fight to the death for you," Yinn immediately said anxiously, her tone bing somewhat disjointed.


    Looking at Yinn, Zhongshan smiled and said, "I know, I know."


    With Wei Taizhong here, even if he died, Yinn would be fine. Since that was the case, it couldn''t be better.


    "Here, I''ll give you the Spiritual Bead. Will you all know how to use it?" Zhongshan looked at everyone.


    "Yes," Linxiao, Wei Taizhong, and Zhongzheng all said excitedly.


    "Good, in that case, let''s go," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," everyone nodded in agreement.


    Then, Zhongshan, dressed in magnificent attire, led the group behind him, walking on the red carpet from the Zhong Mansion all the way to the city gate. The bridge at the city gate had also been rebuilt. Stepping on the red carpet, they walked all the way to the southern tform.


    "Roar, roar, roar!"


    As if weing Zhongshan, the million-strong army roared in unison, shaking the heavens and earth.


    Upon reaching the tform, everyone except Wei Taizhong stopped below the tform.


    The tform was a hundred meters high, and Zhongshan stepped onto it step by step, with Wei Taizhong standing behind him.


    When he reached the top, there was a huge circr tform with a square in the center, symbolizing thebination of heaven and earth.


    On the top of the tform, there was a special kneel-down cab and a square tform for cing objects. Zhongshan gently took out the already rolled-up "Divine Decree" and the "Heavenly Jade Seal" and ced them on the square tform.


    Gently, Zhongshan knelt down very solemnly in front of the cab and began to kowtow to the sky.


    "One kowtow to the heavens," Wei Taizhong roared on behalf of Zhongshan.


    "Kowtow."


    Zhongshan immediately began to kowtow to the sky.


    "Another kowtow."


    "Three kowtows."


    "Get up."


    After three kowtows, Zhongshan gently got up.


    "Two kowtows to the ground," Zhongshan immediately knelt down again.


    "Kowtow."


    "Another kowtow."


    "Three kowtows."


    "Get up."


    Zhongshan quickly got up. This was the procedure that must be followed.


    "Three kowtows to the country."


    "Kowtow."


    "Another kowtow."


    "Three kowtows."


    "Get up."


    After three kowtows and nine prostrations, Zhongshan gently got up.


    Meanwhile, Wei Taizhong bowed his body and slowly retreated from the tform, walking down to his position below and standing there slowly.


    Zhongshan looked down at the million-strong army below, his eyes shing with a sense of superiority.


    Gently, Zhongshan unfolded the "Divine Decree" and then held the Heavenly Jade Seal in both hands, slowly facing the "Divine Decree."


    "From today onwards, the nation of ''Da Ji��ng'' is established, decreed by the heavens, granting eternal prosperity��������������������������������������"


    Zhongshan slowly began to speak, and as he uttered the national name ''Da Ji��ng'', arge ''Da Ji��ng'' character suddenly emerged prominently on the front of the "Divine Decree", faintly disying that this "Divine Decree" was henceforth exclusive to the name ''Da Ji��ng''.


    At the same time, on the far left, arge ''��'' character emerged, and below it were the characters ''Zhong Shan''.


    The Heavenly Jade Seal, held firmly over his name, was forcefully stamped down.


    The moment the Heavenly Jade Seal touched the "Divine Decree".


    "Ao����������������������������������������������������������������������"


    A deafening dragon chant soared into the sky, piercing through heaven and earth, breaking through clouds and fog, resounding throughout the surroundings of the high tform.


    Simultaneously, on the high tform, it seemed like a colossal source of wind, endless gales blowing out from the tform in all directions. Even above the tower, a wind dragon entirely formed by the wind, to the astonishment of everyone present, soared into the sky like a tornado, rushing up into the high altitude.


    As the wind dragon ascended, it instantly broke through the sun-blocking white clouds in the sky, dispersing them in an instant. Revealed was the vast sun in the sky, casting Zhongshan''s figure to resemble a golden war god.


    "Long live our Emperor! Long live our Emperor!"


    The chants echoed ceaselessly, wave after wave, surpassing one another. The ruler of Da Ji��ng, Zhongshan, truly seemed destined by providence, the true dragon emperor! At this moment, countless people disyed looks of admiration. Any lingering attachment to the Su family of the former Da Kun nation vanished instantly. The celestial signs showed that the mandate of heaven belonged here, to this ruler of Da Ji��ng, the true emperor.


    Standing on the tform, Zhongshan looked down slightly excitedly. Actually, he hadn''t expected the scene just now. He couldn''t have imagined that thebination of the Divine Decree and the Heavenly Jade Seal would have such a profound effect. A wind dragon? Dragon chant? Those were symbols of a true dragon emperor. The Heavenly Jade Seal hadn''t even absorbed the nation''s qi yet, and the Divine Decree hadn''t been used to enfeoff any piece of the sky, yet they could produce such effects. It showed the high level of these two items.


    Enjoying the endless bows and worship below, Zhongshan gently put away the Heavenly Jade Seal, leaving only the Divine Decree out.

 Chapter 104: Ascension

    <h4>Chapter 104: Ascension</h4>


    "From this day forth, Zhong Tian and Zhong Zheng shall be crowned Princes of the Great Zong Dynasty," Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    "Yes, Father," Zhong Tian and Zhong Zheng responded immediately.


    At the same time, on the Divine Decree Scroll, from left to right, the character for ''Prince'' slowly appeared beside the character for ''King.'' Beneath the title ''Prince,'' the names ''Zhong Tian'' and ''Zhong Zheng'' emerged respectively. In the unique structure of the Great Zong Dynasty that Zhong Shan envisioned, the title of Prince was not merely a position of session, but a recognition by the Emperor himself. Once acknowledged, both individuals became Princes, with Zhong Tian taking precedence.


    "From this day forth, Lin Xiao shall be the Commander of the First Legion of the Great Zong Dynasty," Zhong Shan continued.


    "From this day forth, Ying Lan shall be the Commander of the Second Legion of the Great Zong Dynasty."


    The Great Zong Dynasty, as long as it remained unchallenged and unrivaled, would forever be known as a dynasty. Gradually, the titles ''First Legion,'' ''Second Legion,'' along with the names ''Lin Xiao'' and ''Ying Lan,'' appeared solemnly on the Divine Decree Scroll.


    "From this day forth, Wei Taizhong shall be the Chief Steward of the Great Zong Dynasty."


    ...A series of announcements followed, reassigning officials, all sanctioned by the heavens.


    Once all appointments were finalized, Zhong Shan slowly rolled up the Divine Decree Scroll. In the future, it would be enshrined in the yet-to-be-constructed Observatory of Heavenly Mandates, where the mandate of heaven and the registry of deities would be kept.


    "Long live our Emperor, ten thousand years, ten thousand years!" The officials and the million-strong army once again prostrated themselves.


    "Rise," Zhong Shanmanded solemnly.


    With the officials escorting him, Zhong Shan descended the high tform. They moved towards the center of Xuan City, near the Zhong Residence, where a grand pce had been constructed.


    The pce was named the Hall of Eternal Life. From this day forth, it would serve as the main venue for Zhong Shan''s court meetings. Inside the Hall of Eternal Life, the Nine-Dragon Throne stood majestically. Zhong Shan stepped forward, ascended the throne, and took a deep breath before sitting down. On both sides of the hall, civil and military officials stood in orderly rows.


    "Long live our Emperor, ten thousand years, ten thousand years!" The officials paid their respects. Even the Princes joined in the reverence.


    "Rise," Zhong Shan said.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," the officials responded in unison.


    Since witnessing the celestial dragon earlier, no official dared to show anything butplete reverence.


    "Lin Xiao," Zhong Shan called out.


    "Your servant is here," Lin Xiao responded, stepping forward promptly.


    "The Song Dynasty has invaded. You are to lead the First Legion and crush the invaders," Zhong Shanmanded gravely.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," Lin Xiao replied.


    "Ying Lan," Zhong Shan continued.


    "Your servant is here," Ying Lan stepped forward.


    "The Kun State has fallen into chaos, and the nation is not at peace. You are to lead the Second Legion to quell the rebels and stabilize the Four Great ns," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "As youmand," Ying Lan responded immediately.


    Next, Zhong Shan issued a series of orders aimed at stabilizing the lives of themon people, surveying thend, and conducting a poption census. He decreed that the capital be established in Xuan City, renaming it ''Xuankin,'' and ordered the expansion of Xuankin. The citizens within the city would be relocated outside the expanded area, with all their lossespensated by the Great Zong Dynasty. Thisprehensive n aimed to reorganize and redevelop the capital city of the dynasty.


    With the foundation of the Great Zong Dynasty justid, there were countless tasks to be addressed. However, under Zhong Shan''s meticulous nning, the remnants of the former Kun State would soon be efficiently managed and integrated.


    "Court is adjourned!" Wei Taizhong announced.


    "Long live our Emperor, ten thousand years, ten thousand years!" The officials retreated.


    Zhong Shan also gradually retreated from the Hall of Eternal Life back to the Zhong Residence. With the nation''s affairs in order, Zhong Shan summoned Zhong Tian that evening.


    "Father," Zhong Tian greeted respectfully.


    "Hmm, you will return to your sect and travel with your master across the Divine Land. There is no need to worry about matters here. Remember, no matter what happens in the future, you are always the Crown Prince of our Great Zong Dynasty," Zhong Shan stated solemnly.


    "Yes, Father," Zhong Tian replied immediately.


    "Here are five hundred spirit stones. They are essential for your cultivation, keep them for now," Zhong Shan said.


    He then produced arge quantity of spirit stones and ced them on the table.


    "Thank you, Father," Zhong Tian said, nodding earnestly.


    "Go on," Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes," Zhong Tian responded and left promptly.


    As the Yn Hall fell silent again, Zhong Shan spoke softly, "Dark Emperor,e forth."


    "Yes, Master," the Dark Emperor emerged from the shadows.


    Looking at the Dark Emperor, Zhong Shan said, "In today''s court session, I established the Imperial Guard Bureau. It has two departments. The first is the Jinyiwei, responsible for monitoring the realm. The second is your Dark Night Hall, now integrated into the Imperial Guard Bureau as the ''Shadow Guard.'' You are appointed as the Chief Commander of the Shadow Guard."


    "Yes," the Dark Emperor responded immediately.


    "Hmm, deploy some Shadow Guards to secretly protect Ying Lan," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes," the Dark Emperor replied without hesitation.


    At Kaiyang Sect, within Kaiyang Peak, inside the Kaiyang Hall.


    Tian Xingzi sat at the main seat, with Xuan Xinzi and Gu Shuangzi on either side of him. Below them sat a visibly excited Tian Ling''er and an extremely solemn Nie Qingqing. Nie Qingqing''s brows were slightly furrowed, as if she was unwilling to be there. If not for Ling''er, Nie Qingqing might have left in a huff.


    In the hall stood another individual, Zhong Shan, now cleansed and dressed in pristine white robes. Zhong Shan stepped forward, and ording to Kaiyang Sect''s rules, bowed three times and kowtowed four times before Tian Xingzi.


    "Disciple Zhong Shan pays respects to Master," Zhong Shan said solemnly. He then carefully picked up a cup of tea and presented it to Tian Xingzi.


    Today was the day Zhong Shan performed the disciple eptance ceremony. Zhong Shan was a proud man, having founded the Great Zong Dynasty and bing its ruler. But what did that matter? Cultivation still required guidance. In the Kaiyang Sect, Zhong Shan would be immensely grateful if even a Golden Core stage expert were to guide him. Now, with Tian Xingzi, a Nascent Soul stage master, Zhong Shan was utterly satisfied.


    Bei Qingsi was at the Golden Core stage, but Zhong Shan knew their rtionship was at best ordinary, perhaps even peculiar. Expecting her to guide him wholeheartedly was unrealistic. Now, with the sect master''s guidance, Zhong Shan felt deeply content.


    After sipping the tea offered in respect to his master, Tian Xingzi smiled and said, "ording to the rules of the Kaiyang Sect, since you are still in the Innate stage, you will be considered a third-generation disciple. For now, I will ept you as a registered disciple. Once you reach the Golden Core stage, you will be a formal disciple."


    "Yes, Master," Zhong Shan responded immediately.


    Everyone in the hall was a witness to this event.


    "These two jade talismans are my gifts to you as a token of your eptance. I believe you have seen Ling''er use them," Tian Xingzi said, handing two jade talismans to Zhong Shan.


    "Thank you, Master," Zhong Shan replied excitedly, epting them eagerly. One was an Ice Phoenix Talisman, the other a Fire Phoenix Talisman.


    Zhong Shan had seen Tian Ling''er use them before, knowing their power could threaten even a beginner at the Golden Core stage. In his hands, their potential would undoubtedly be even greater.


    "Since the ceremony is over, I shall take my leave. Ling''er, we''re leaving," Nie Qingqing said, rising abruptly and showing no courtesy to Tian Xingzi.


    "No, Auntie, you go ahead!" Tian Ling''er shook her head immediately.


    Since the incident with the Thunder Scorpion Eggs, Tian Ling''er hade to understand her true desires and what she sought. There was no way she would leave now.


    Nie Qingqing red at Zhong Shan.


    "Hmph!" With a cold snort, Nie Qingqing turned and left the Kaiyang Hall.


    Inside the hall, Gu Shuangzi looked on coldly, clearly not weing Nie Qingqing. Xuan Xinzi remained expressionless, giving nothing away. Tian Ling''er, however, seemed oblivious to everything except Zhong Shan. As for Tian Xingzi, he sighed softly, feeling a slight pang of guilt towards Nie Qingqing.


    "It seems, senior brother, you have a keen eye for talent. It hasn''t even been two years since Zhong Shan first brought the jade slip to Kaiyang Sect, and no one expected his cultivation to advance so quickly. Reaching the fifth level of the Innate stage is quite rare among the new disciples, isn''t it?" Xuan Xinzi suddenly remarked.


    "This has nothing to do with me. It''s all Zhong Shan''s own effort. Without strong willpower, such achievements would be impossible," Tian Xingzi said.


    "It''s all due to luck," Zhong Shan said humbly.


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan with satisfaction and nodded approvingly.


    "It''s time for us to return as well," Gu Shuangzi said, rising.


    "Hmm," Tian Xingzi nodded.


    "Farewell," the others echoed, taking their leave.


    Xuan Xinzi and Gu Shuangzi both took their leave. Tian Xingzi merely nodded, seeing them off.


    Returning to the grand hall, only three people remained: Tian Xingzi, Zhong Shan, and Tian Ling''er.


    "Zhong Shan, I examined your bodyst time. You are at the peak of the fifth level of the Innate stage, just a hair''s breadth away from condensing true essence. Continue your cultivation diligently. Once your true essence forms, I will arrange the sequence for opening your meridian points ording to your physique," Tian Xingzi instructed.


    "Yes, Master," Zhong Shan responded.


    "Ling''er," Tian Xingzi called out.


    "Huh?" Tian Ling''er paused, looking at Tian Xingzi with some confusion.


    "This time out, your greatest achievement was reaching the tenth level of the Innate stage. In half a month, you will begin a closed-door retreat to advance to the Golden Core stage," Tian Xingzi said solemnly.


    "What? So soon?" Tian Ling''er eximed, looking quite reluctant.


    Zhong Shan, hearing this, felt a pang of frustration. Was rapid progress in cultivation really something to be troubled about?


    Tian Xingzi also felt a sudden block in his chest, an indescribable feeling of helplessness flooding his mind.


    "Why? Advancing to the Golden Core stage isn''t good?" Tian Xingzi asked.


    "Once I start, it will take at least a year. Being confined to a small room for a whole year, how boring!" Tian Ling''erined, ncing asionally at Zhong Shan.


    "You have to face it sooner orter. Besides, in half a month, there will be a spirit tide in that secret chamber, which will be the best aid for your breakthrough," Tian Xingzi said sternly.


    "Alright," Tian Ling''er nodded reluctantly.


    "Master, does the sect have records of celestial treasures, elixirs, and rare beasts?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "You wish to read them?" Tian Xingzi looked at Zhong Shan with a smile.


    "Yes, disciple wishes to familiarize myself with them in advance. It would be a great pity to encounter such things in the future and miss out on them," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Very well. Ling''er, take Zhong Shan to the Hall of Rare Treasures," Tian Xingzi instructed.


    "Yes," Tian Ling''er responded enthusiastically.


    "Master, disciple takes his leave," Zhong Shan said respectfully.


    Under Tian Ling''er''s guidance, they swiftly traversed several mountains, making their way towards the Hall of Rare Treasures.


    Standing atop a mountain, Tian Xingzi watched the pair descend. Observing Tian Ling''er''s excitement and then ncing at Zhong Shan, a gentle smile appeared on his face.


    The Hall of Rare Treasures was a grand hall situated in a secluded mountain valley. The valley was serene, featuring a bamboo forest and a smallke, exuding tranquility yet also an air of istion.


    However, as Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er arrived at the valley, they found two elderly men engaged in a lively discussion.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan immediately recognized one of them��Shou Shan, the old man who guarded the mountain gate when Zhong Shan first entered the Kaiyang Sect. Although Shou Shan appeared frail and aged, Zhong Shan had always sensed an unfathomable depth in him.


    At that moment, Shou Shan was ying a game of chess with another elderly man. Perhaps due to a dispute over the cement of a piece, neither was willing to back down.


    "Grandpa Shan, Grandpa Zong, are you two arguing again over who ced thest piece?" Tian Ling''er cheerfully ran towards the two elders, her words full of yful teasing. Yet, her innocent and lively demeanor, resembling that of a porcin doll, could never provoke anyone''s anger.


    "Your Grandpa Zong is cheating again. Honestly, he ys chess without any integrity," Shou Shan immediatelyined.


    "You''re the one cheating! You just ced a piece and now you want to ce another. Your mind is muddled," the other elder retorted.


    "It''s clearly you who has no integrity in chess. Ling''er is here, so don''t embarrass yourself," Shou Shan retorted without hesitation.


    Tian Ling''er merely giggled, watching the two elders bicker.


    "Disciple Zhong Shan greets the two elders," Zhong Shan said respectfully.


    The two elders paused and looked at Zhong Shan.


    "You''re the one who brought the jade slipst time?" Shou Shan asked after some thought.


    "Yes, that''s me," Zhong Shan replied promptly.


    "No need to address us as ''disciples'' and such. I''m just a gatekeeper, and he''s just a keeper of the Hall of Rare Treasures," Shou Shan said, shaking his head.


    "Grandpa Shan, Grandpa Zong, Zhong Shan has been epted as a registered disciple by my father. He asked me to bring Zhong Shan here to read some books," Tian Ling''er exined.


    "Oh?" Both elders nced at Zhong Shan, a hint of surprise in their eyes.


    "Well, we won''t disturb your game any longer. Zhong Shan and I will head into the Hall of Rare Treasures. Oh, by the way, I think it''s Grandpa Shan''s turn to ce a piece," Tian Ling''er said yfully, pulling Zhong Shan towards the hall.


    Her final remark seemed to invigorate Shou Shan as if she had given him a magical elixir, making him forget Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er''s presence altogether.


    "Hahaha, see? Even Ling''er noticed it should be my turn. The words of a child are the most honest!" Shou Shan said excitedly.


    "Ling''er wasn''t even here when the piece was ced. And besides, is Ling''er still a child? She''s a grown woman now. It doesn''t count; it''s my turn," the other elder argued immediately.


    As the two continued their debate, Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er arrived at the entrance of the Hall of Rare Treasures.


    "Ling''er, who are those two?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "You mean Grandpa Shan and Grandpa Zong? I''m not sure either. I''ve seen them since I was little. Grandpa Shan is called Shou Shan, and Grandpa Zong is called Shou Zong. They don''t talk to anyone else, only me. Impressive, right?" Tian Ling''er said with a proud smile.


    "Impressive," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Shou Shan? Shou Zong?

 Chapter 105: Ling鈥檈r鈥檚 Impulse

    <h4>Chapter 105: Ling''er''s Impulse</h4>


    Within the Hall of Rare Treasures, there stood a total of fifteen bookshelves, each densely packed with books. Zhong Shan stared in astonishment at the scene before him.


    "Ling''er, why aren''t these records kept in jade slips? Jade slips can hold much more information than books," Zhong Shan asked, visibly shaken by the sight of so many books.


    Tian Ling''er, who had been staring nkly at Zhong Shan, blushed slightly when he spoke.


    "Jade slips can hold more, but my father says that over time, the information in jade slips can be corrupted or even lost. Books, on the other hand, are more reliable for long-term preservation," Tian Ling''er exined.


    Zhong Shan nodded, absorbing this new piece of information. Each of the fifteen bookshelves held nearly a thousand books, amounting to over ten thousand records in total. Could there really be so many rare treasures in the world?


    What Zhong Shan didn''t know was that other sects didn''t have such systematic records; this was a unique feature of the Kaiyang Sect.


    Zhong Shan gently pulled out a book and opened it to the first page.


    "Millennium Snow Lotus, third grade inferior. Its petals can be used in alchemy. Commonly found at the peaks of icy mountains..."


    The first page detailed the Millennium Snow Lotus with meticulous care. Zhong Shan was deeply impressed by the thoroughness of the records. Meanwhile, in the mortal realm, his avatar was dictating information to a group of scribes who were recording everything swiftly and organizing it into volumes.


    His main body continued to read page by page. Beside him, Tian Ling''er watched him, seemingly brewing something in her mind. After a while, she finally gathered her courage and spoke up.


    "Zhong Shan, how many wives do you have?" Tian Ling''er bit her lip, her face reddening.


    Zhong Shan gently set down the book and looked at Tian Ling''er. She felt incredibly nervous, but she didn''t back down and met his gaze.


    With a slight smile, Zhong Shan said, "I have taken eight wives in the past, but most of those marriages were either false or for political reasons. I only have two true wives, the ones you saw carved in woodst time, Kui''er and Bao''er. Since meeting them, I haven''t taken any more wives."


    "Are Kui''er and Bao''er thest ones you married?" Tian Ling''er asked, her curiosity piqued.


    Zhong Shan looked at her and, after a moment of reflection, replied, "Yes. It was after meeting Kui''er that I truly understood what love is. After she passed away, I met Bao''er."


    "And Bao''er?" Tian Ling''er pressed on.


    Zhong Shan sighed softly, "Bao''er went somewhere, but she hasn''te back yet."


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s sorrow, Tian Ling''er immediately tried tofort him, "Bao''er will definitelye back."


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded gently.


    "Ling''er, you don''t have to stay with me all the time. I might be here for days, reading," Zhong Shan said again.


    "No, it''s fine. I have things to read too. If I get bored, I can always visit Grandpa Shan and Grandpa Zong. Don''t worry about me," Tian Ling''er shook her head resolutely.


    Looking at Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and finally nodded. He continued to scan the records, dictating them to the scribes through his avatar. Tian Ling''er held a book, but her attention was entirely on Zhong Shan.


    Fifteen bookshelves��there was simply too much content. It took Zhong Shan fifteen days to merely flip through each book once. During those fifteen days, Tian Ling''er stayed by his side, unwavering and devoted, which deeply moved Zhong Shan despite his focus on the records.


    When they reached thest bookshelf, it seemed Tian Ling''er had been gathering her courage for a long time. Finally, she took three deep breaths, her face flushed, and addressed Zhong Shan, who was engrossed in a book.


    "Zhong Shan," she called.


    Zhong Shan set down the book, puzzled, and looked at the red-faced Tian Ling''er. "What is it?" he asked, focusing on her.


    The intensity of Zhong Shan''s gaze made Tian Ling''er even more nervous, but she forced herself to remain steadfast. She had learned the importance of cherishing moments, knowing that once lost, they could never be regained, no matter how much one might regret it. Gone was her former shyness.


    "Zhong Shan, can I be your third wife?" Tian Ling''er finally mustered the courage to say the most embarrassing words of her life.


    Her voice was filled with anticipation, her eyes fixed on Zhong Shan as if awaiting a verdict. Her heart pounded furiously, and her hands clenched tightly, nails digging into her flesh.


    Zhong Shan put down the book,pletely taken aback by Tian Ling''er''s sudden question. Her nervousness was palpable, and Zhong Shan himself was caught off guard.


    Tian Ling''er felt her head buzzing, her thoughts in chaos, as she awaited Zhong Shan''s response. Zhong Shan understood how much courage it took for her to say those words. It wasn''t just about bravery; her recent brush with life and death had taught her something profound.


    Just as Zhong Shan was about to respond, a voice interrupted.


    "Ling''er~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Outside the Hall of Rare Treasures, Tian Xingzi''s call echoed. Hearing it, Tian Ling''er looked like a cat whose tail had been stepped on. Her face turned even redder, and she dashed out, as if realizing how audacious her question had been.


    Zhong Shan watched her leave, momentarily stunned. He set down the book and followed her outside.


    Outside the Hall of Rare Treasures, four figures descended from the sky: Tian Xingzi, Gu Shuangzi, Xuan Xinzi, and Nie Qingqing. The two elders who guarded the mountain and the sect were nowhere to be seen.


    "Father," Tian Ling''er called, her face still tinged with red.


    "Where have you been these past few days? Don''t you know what today is?" Tian Xingzi reproached her.


    "I forgot for a moment. Please don''t me me. The spirit tide is about to begin," Gu Shuangzi said with a smile.


    "Look around, everyone''s waiting for you. What were you doing here?" Tian Xingzi asked sternly.


    What was she doing? Tian Ling''er''s face reddened even more. How could she exin?


    "Master, Ling''er was apanying me while I read," Zhong Shan quickly interjected.


    "Yes, I was reading too," Tian Ling''er chimed in.


    "You, reading?" Tian Xingzi was incredulous. Tian Ling''er had never been fond of books. It was clearly an excuse.


    Nie Qingqing, standing nearby, frowned at Zhong Shan, her eyes shing with intense disapproval.


    "Enough,e with me. The spirit tide is about to begin," Tian Xingzi ordered.


    "Yes," Tian Ling''er quickly nodded. At this moment, she had no courage to ask Zhong Shan again and felt a bit too embarrassed to face him after what had just transpired.


    Tian Xingzi made a gesture, and a white cloud lifted Tian Ling''er into the sky. Xuan Xinzi and Gu Shuangzi followed suit, flying away with her. Only Nie Qingqing remained behind.


    Zhong Shan had no particr fondness for Nie Qingqing. She wasn''t from the Kaiyang Sect and had often spoken disrespectfully to Tian Xingzi. However, she was the sister of his teacher''s wife, so he nodded slightly in acknowledgment before turning back toward the Hall of Rare Treasures.


    "Stop," Nie Qingqing called out.


    Zhong Shan furrowed his brow and turned around, looking at Nie Qingqing with a hint of confusion.


    "Is there something you need, Senior?" Zhong Shan asked, his expression neutral.


    "Hmph, Zhong Shan, you think you''re clever. Even though your cultivation potential iscking, you''re quite the romantic, deceiving even Ling''er," Nie Qingqing said, ring at him.


    Zhong Shan didn''t get angry. Instead, he calmly looked at her and said, "If you have something to say, please say it clearly."


    Nie Qingqing found hisposed attitude infuriating, like a punchnding on a soft cushion. She felt utterly frustrated.


    "What did Ling''er say to you just now? Do you have anything to say for yourself?" Nie Qingqing demanded.


    Zhong Shan realized she had overheard his conversation with Ling''er. "If you have something specific to discuss, please do. I don''t understand what you mean," he said again.


    Seeing Zhong Shan feign ignorance, Nie Qingqing seethed with anger. She took a deep breath, calmed herself, and spoke more evenly. "I want you to stay away from Ling''er."


    Zhong Shan gave a slight smile. "Senior, I think you misunderstand��"


    "I am not mistaken. From the day Ling''er returned seeking your help to today when she asked to be your wife, it''s clear to me that her heart has been stolen by you. But you must be aware of your limitations. With such poor cultivation potential, the Golden Core stage will be your limit, and your lifespan won''t exceed four hundred years. Ling''er is different. She has the potential to reach the Nascent Soul stage with ease. She has a long life ahead, and I don''t want her to suffer heartbreak or even die for you in three hundred years," Nie Qingqing said sternly.


    After listening to Nie Qingqing''s words, Zhong Shan took a deep breath. "You are the sister of my teacher''s wife, so I respect you as a senior. You may be considering Ling''er''s future, and I won''t me you for that. But I must say this: whatever happens between Ling''er and me is our business. It is not for others to interfere."


    "Hmph!"


    Nie Qingqing''s expression turned icy as she unleashed her aura. A tremendous pressure bore down on Zhong Shan, pressing the grass t to the ground and trying to force him to his knees.


    However, Zhong Shan refused to kneel. He stood tall, meeting Nie Qingqing''s gaze. Despite the tremors in his body under the immense pressure, his knees never bent.


    Facing Nie Qingqing''s sudden assault, Zhong Shan showed no fear. His eyes burned with anger as he clenched his fists, resisting the oppressive force.


    "Do you believe I won''t kill you right now?" Nie Qingqing said coldly.

 Chapter 106: Celebration

    <h4>Chapter 106: Celebration</h4>


    "Do you believe I won''t kill you right now?" Nie Qingqing''s voice was icy.


    Hearing her words, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. Despite this, he did not believe Nie Qingqing would actually kill him. If she were truly malicious, she wouldn''t need to say such things; she would simply act. The fact that she hadn''t yet killed him suggested she had some reservations. There were likely people or matters within the Kaiyang Sect that she feared. If she wasn''t inherently cruel, she wouldn''t resort to murder. Thus, her words were merely a threat.


    However, Zhong Shan was still irritated by her attitude. He responded in a deep voice, "I believe you, but that doesn''t change my resolve. My affairs are not for others to meddle in, no matter their intentions or cultivation level. If you want to kill me, then go ahead."


    Having said this, Zhong Shan turned and walked back toward the Hall of Rare Treasures, ignoring Nie Qingqing.


    For the first time, someone had spoken to her like this, turning away after speaking? Telling her to kill if she wanted to? And this from someone with such low cultivation and poor potential? How dare he?


    Zhong Shan turned away because the pressure Nie Qingqing exerted was too strong. If he stayed any longer, he would eventually embarrass himself. Zhong Shan understood that in any confrontation, there was always an unspoken battle of wills. If he sumbed to her pressure, what was initially a non-lethal situation could turn dangerous.


    "Stop! Take another step, and I''ll kill you with one strike," Nie Qingqing said, her voice filled with anger.


    As expected, Zhong Shan''s steps came to a sudden halt.


    Seeing him stop, Nie Qingqing''s face lit up with satisfaction.


    Zhong Shan paused and then spoke again, "Senior, you should understand that some people do not fear death because they have their own convictions."


    With this seemingly cryptic remark, Zhong Shan resumed his steps and walked into the Hall of Rare Treasures.


    Nie Qingqing watched him enter, speechless. The oppressive aura she had released dissipated. She red daggers at Zhong Shan''s back before finally stepping onto a cloud and flying away in frustration.


    Inside, Zhong Shan wiped the cold sweat from his brow. Once he was sure Nie Qingqing had left, he resumed reading thest bit of material.


    Meanwhile, at the edge of a smallke in the valley, two old men appeared��Shoushan and Shouzong. They exchanged a knowing look, each with a trace of amusement in their eyes, then resumed their chess game as if nothing had happened.


    By evening, Zhong Shan had finished reviewing all the materials. More urately, his shadow form had the scribes transcribe aplete copy of Kaiyang Sect''s records.


    Zhong Shan''s main body gently stepped out of the Hall of Rare Treasures. He wasn''t worried about Ling''er. Her retreat location was a secret even she hadn''t known a few days ago.


    From the materials he''d read, Zhong Shan was astonished to learn that the fiery fruit beneath the hot spring was indeed called the me Fruit. It absorbed the purest Yang energy from heaven and earth, possessing miraculous properties. The spiritual energy it emitted was purer than that found in ordinary spirit stones, making it an extremely rare and valuable fifth-grade mid-tier spirit fruit.


    However, Zhong Shan couldn''t directly absorb its energy yet. He could only benefit from the Yimu Fire it emitted, which was excellent for condensing his true qi into true essence.


    Five monthster, in a cave beneath a hot spring in the Kaiyang Sect, where Zhong Shan had discovered the me Fruit...


    Zhong Shan sat cross-legged, shrouded in a faint but fluctuating aura of malevolent energy. Surrounding him were numerous Yang spirit stones, while the nearby me Fruit continuously exuded concentrated spiritual energy. This energy, seemingly drawn by some unseen force, slowly merged into the malevolent aura around Zhong Shan and was then absorbed into his body.


    With his eyes closed and mind focused, Zhong Shan directed his concentration to his dantian. Within his dantian, a vortex of true qi spun like a small hurricane, drawing in mist-like true qi from his body and cycling it back. However, at this moment, the vortex only absorbed without returning.


    Massive amounts of true qi were concentrated andpressed at the vortex''s base. The true qi from his limbs and meridians was pulled in, creating a sense of emptiness within him. Yet, the abundant spiritual energy from the external environment replenished this emptiness, maintaining a bnce.


    Zhong Shan had been sitting in meditation for three days,pletely motionless, waiting for this critical moment. Typically, others at the peak of the fifth level of Xiantian would break through within half a day, but due to Zhong Shan''s poor foundation, he had to endure the tedious process of continuouslypressing his true qi.


    Suddenly, there was a crackling sound from the vortex''s base, reminiscent of an electric spark. Instantly, the heavilypressed true qi condensed into a single drop of purple-red liquid. This triggered a chain reaction, rapidly converting more true qi into liquid form, creating more and more of this substance.


    True essence��this was true essence, the result of Zhong Shan''s three days of effort.


    It had been a challenging process, taking a full three days. Just moments before, Zhong Shan had nearly given in to the urge to dy the breakthrough, but he persisted, knowing that failing this time would make the next attempt even harder.


    Fortune finally favored him. The electric spark in the true qi had yed a crucial role. Without it, Zhong Shan might have seeded after a few more days, but the spark had significantly shortened the process. This spark was a remnant of the lightning scorpion eggs'' effects from half a year ago. Despite Tian Xingzi''s efforts to purge it, a trace remained. Tian Xingzi had said that with higher cultivation and purer true essence, it would eventually be expelled. Zhong Shan had kept this in mind, not expecting it to be so helpful today.


    An hourter, all his true qi had transformed into true essence. Although the quantity had halved, its quality and potency had greatly increased. From now on, he could release de energy without relying on the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique.


    In his dantian, a vortex of pure liquid true essence continuously absorbed and cycled back, enhancing his body and cultivating his strength.


    After a brief meal, Zhong Shan resumed his meditation to restore his body to its optimal state and fill his true essence reserves.


    Five dayster, with a look of exhration, Zhong Shan rose slowly. He collected the numerous spirit stones and organized his surroundings before heading to the Kaiyang Hall to report to his master and discuss his future cultivation ns.


    With a ssh, Zhong Shan dove into the deep pool, ready for the next steps on his path of cultivation.


    Meanwhile, at the hot springs above, a figure appeared once again.


    Bei Qingsi, looking as if she had just returned from a long journey, was covered in dust, and her clothes were tattered in ces, clearly bearing the marks of a fierce battle. With a flick of her wrist, she cast sixteen cloud gs in all directions, forming a silent array. Thick mist enveloped the valley, once again concealing the hot springs from view.


    On the peak of a nearby mountain, the haughty Tian Sha stood with his robes fluttering in the breeze, his eyes fixed on the hot springs below and the sudden rise of white mist. He knew well whaty within that mist��it was a protective barrier set by Bei Qingsi, who was about to bathe and change clothes.


    A glimmer of anticipation and longing flickered in Tian Sha''s eyes��a longing for Bei Qingsi, and a desire to glimpse the scene within the array. He remained on the mountain peak, patiently waiting. This was not the first time.


    At the hot springs, Bei Qingsi reached for her waistband, preparing to undress and bathe. Her elegant silver eyebrows furrowed slightly as she recalled the embarrassing incident that had urred here before. Last time had been too much of a coincidence.


    Nevertheless, Bei Qingsi scanned the area with her divine sense. Within its range, there was no sign of any life.


    Sighing in relief, she gently removed her dusty, tattered outer garment. Just as she slipped it off, revealing her inner clothes and her smooth, icy shoulders, the water in the center of the hot springs began to swirl erratically.


    Seeing this, Bei Qingsi''s brow furrowed, an odd feeling creeping into her heart. Could it really be such a coincidence?


    "Boom~~~~~~~"


    With an expression of sheer excitement, Zhong Shan burst from the depths of the hot springs, shooting upwards with incredible speed.


    In an instant, Zhong Shan leaped out of the hot springs, having reached the sixth level of the Xiantian stage��a significant milestone worth celebrating. However, as he emerged from the water and saw the thick mist obscuring his surroundings, his expression froze. Sensing trouble, he turned his head and found himself face-to-face once more with Bei Qingsi.


    Bei Qingsi had already shed her outer garment, standing in just her inner clothes that clung to her wless figure. Her delicate shoulders gleamed like jade, capturing Zhong Shan''s gaze. Last time, she had beenpletely unclothed; this time, her semi-transparent inner garments made her even more alluring, setting his blood ame.


    Bei Qingsi stared at Zhong Shan, dazed. How could this be such a coincidence? Was it deliberate? She had just returned to the Kaiyang Sect today, and even her master didn''t know she was back. How could Zhong Shan be ''lying in wait'' here? Was he waiting here every day?


    Zhong Shan quickly snapped out of his initial daze, cold sweat forming on his forehead as he looked at Bei Qingsi. Did his breakthroughs always have to coincide with such awkward moments?


    The atmosphere was intensely silent and awkward. The second intrusion was even more shocking for Bei Qingsi than the first, far from making her ustomed to it. Zhong Shan, feeling bewildered and speechless, jumped to the side.


    "Thud~~~~~~~"


    The sound of Zhong Shannding broke the tense silence, jolting Bei Qingsi out of her stunned state.


    In an instant, Zhong Shan leaped out of the hot springs, having reached the sixth level of the Xiantian stage��a significant milestone worth celebrating. However, as he emerged from the water and saw the thick mist obscuring his surroundings, his expression froze. Sensing trouble, he turned his head and found himself face-to-face once more with Bei Qingsi.


    Bei Qingsi had already shed her outer garment, standing in just her inner clothes that clung to her wless figure. Her delicate shoulders gleamed like jade, capturing Zhong Shan''s gaze. Last time, she had beenpletely unclothed; this time, her semi-transparent inner garments made her even more alluring, setting his blood ame.


    Bei Qingsi stared at Zhong Shan, dazed. How could this be such a coincidence? Was it deliberate? She had just returned to the Kaiyang Sect today, and even her master didn''t know she was back. How could Zhong Shan be ''lying in wait'' here? Was he waiting here every day?


    Zhong Shan quickly snapped out of his initial daze, cold sweat forming on his forehead as he looked at Bei Qingsi. Did his breakthroughs always have to coincide with such awkward moments?


    The atmosphere was intensely silent and awkward. The second intrusion was even more shocking for Bei Qingsi than the first, far from making her ustomed to it. Zhong Shan, feeling bewildered and speechless, jumped to the side.


    "Thud~~~~~~~"


    The sound of Zhong Shannding broke the tense silence, jolting Bei Qingsi out of her stunned state.

 Chapter 107: The Mud Buddha

    <h4>Chapter 107: The Mud Buddha</h4>


    "Zhong Shan~~~~~~" Bei Qingsi''s startled cry echoed as she regained herposure.


    Zhong Shan quickly turned his back, feeling somewhat wronged, and muttered, "This time, I was here first."


    Hisment only made Bei Qingsi''s already annoyed face flush even redder. Quickly, she retrieved a set of clothes from her storage bracelet and dressed rapidly, her eyes brimming with a mixture of shame and anger.


    "Alright, you can turn around now," Bei Qingsi said, her voice tinged with embarrassment and frustration.


    Reluctantly, Zhong Shan turned to face her, meeting her angry gaze. He knew Bei Qingsi wouldn''t kill him, but her expression made him feel deeply wronged. It really wasn''t his fault; it was just an incredible coincidence.


    "I expect a reasonable exnation," Bei Qingsi demanded, trying to steady her emotions. She felt strangely conflicted because, despite the situation, she couldn''t bring herself to me Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nced at her, also hoping for a rational exnation from the heavens. It was just too coincidental, almost eerily so.


    Looking at Bei Qingsi, Zhong Shan said, "If I told you it was a coincidence, would you believe me?"


    Bei Qingsi: "..."


    "When did youe back?" Zhong Shan quickly changed the subject. Although it was an awkward segue, he knew he couldn''t linger on the current topic.


    Bei Qingsi nced at him, understanding that it had to be a coincidence. She had just returned to the Kaiyang Sect. Even if someone knew she wasing, they couldn''t have prepared in advance, at most waiting outside the hot spring. Besides, it wasn''t dignified for a woman to dwell on such matters.


    Taking a deep breath to calm herself, she said, "I just got back."


    Zhong Shan noticed her damaged outer garment and frowned. "Did you get the second piece of evidence? Did you encounter danger?"


    "Yes, I took care of my opponent. But I can''t ess the location of the third piece without borrowing something from the Sect Master," Bei Qingsi replied, putting away her torn clothes and not mentioning the earlier incident.


    Frowning, Zhong Shan approached Bei Qingsi. She seemed flustered but stood her ground stubbornly.


    Standing close to her, Zhong Shan asked softly, "What do you n to do after obtaining the three pieces of evidence?"


    "I will leave immediately to clear my father''s name," Bei Qingsi said resolutely.


    "Can''t you wait a bit longer? At least until you reach the Nascent Soul stage?" Zhong Shan asked, concerned.


    Touched by Zhong Shan''s worry, Bei Qingsi''s expression softened. "I can''t wait any longer. My father''s remains are still being desecrated. I must go as soon as possible."


    Seeing her determination, Zhong Shan sighed, "Alright, I wish you the best of luck."


    "Thank you," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    "Maybe you should finish your bath. I''ll leave now," Zhong Shan suggested, ncing at the hot spring.


    Bei Qingsi''s face turned crimson again. Shaking her head, she said, "No need. I need to see the Sect Master and then say goodbye to my master."


    "Alright, I also need to see my master. I''ll apany you," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "You? Your master?" Bei Qingsi asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, I was fortunate enough to catch the Sect Master''s eye this time and be his named disciple. So, I won''t have to address you as senior brother anymore," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Senior brother?" Bei Qingsi shook her head. "In that case, you can just call me Qingsi."


    "Alright, Qingsi," Zhong Shan replied.


    Bei Qingsi didn''t say anything but a hint of a gentle smile appeared on her normally aloof face.


    With a wave of her hand, she retrieved the sixteen cloud gs and stored them in her bracelet. As the array dissipated, the surrounding mist vanished abruptly.


    Meanwhile, on the peak of a distant mountain, Tian Sha had been closely observing the hot spring valley. As the array disappeared, he took a deep breath, ready to assess the situation. However, his expression froze as he felt a surge of disbelief. How could this be possible? How could there be another man?


    Zhong Shan? What was he doing in the valley? Bei Qingsi had gone there to bathe. Why was Zhong Shan bathing there too? What had happened in the hot spring valley just now? Tian Sha''s brow furrowed, a sense of frustration building up inside him. He nced at Zhong Shan with resentment and a hint of murderous intent.


    But Tian Sha''s anger was far from over. On the flying sword that had never been touched by a man stood Zhong Shan. How could this be? Tian Sha knew Bei Qingsi was fastidious and her sword was never touched by any man, except in a life-and-death battle. What was happening now? How could she let Zhong Shan step on it?


    Clutching his fists tightly, Tian Sha watched as the two flew away from the valley, filled with boundless rage. His eyes narrowed, emanating a chilling coldness.


    Bei Qingsi led Zhong Shan straight to the Kaiyang Peak, and in no time, they arrived at the Kaiyang Hall.


    Perhaps Bei Qingsi and Zhong Shan were just incredibly lucky. When they reached the Kaiyang Hall, Tian Xingzi happened to be there, along with Xuan Xinzi and Gu Shaozi.


    As Zhong Shan entered the hall, he noticed another person��a man who wasn''t Nie Qingqing but a rugged-looking individual with dark skin. Moreover, there was a prominent scar running from his left eye to his mouth.


    Nan Batian!


    Nan Batian had returned?


    "Disciple Zhong Shan pays respects to Master and senior uncle," Zhong Shan immediately stepped forward and greeted.


    "Qingsi pays respects to Master, Sect Master, and senior uncle," Bei Qingsi followed suit.


    "When did you return, Qingsi?" Gu Shaozi asked with a hint of joy.


    "I just returned today," Bei Qingsi replied promptly.


    "The sixth level of the Xiantian stage, Zhong Shan, you''ve broken through again?" Xuan Xinzi eximed in surprise.


    Meanwhile, Tian Xingzi nodded in satisfaction.


    "Yes, thanks to Master''s guidance," Zhong Shan replied promptly.


    "Good. Zhong Shan, I just checked, and you''re in excellent condition now. Following the sequence I previously mentioned, the next step is to open up the remaining 360 acupoints and continue to infuse your true essence, filling your body with it," Tian Xingzi said, pleased with Zhong Shan''s progress.


    Xuan Xinzi and Gu Shaozi nced at Zhong Shan, both showing a hint of surprise. They were well aware of Zhong Shan''s aptitude, and the fact that he had cultivated true essence in just over two years was unbelievable.


    Nan Batian, on the other hand, eyes glittered with happiness, clearly pleased for Zhong Shan.


    "Master, Qingsi hase this time to ask Master for the token to the Wolf Domain," Bei Qingsi said, bowing to Tian Xingzi, her eyes filled with hope.


    As Bei Qingsi spoke, everyone fell silent, their brows furrowing in concern.


    "You''ve already collected two pieces?" Gu Shaozi sighed softly.


    "Yes, Master. There''s only one piece left," Bei Qingsi replied earnestly.


    "Ah..." Gu Shaozi let out a sigh. He nced at Tian Xingzi.


    "Are you going to see him?" Tian Xingzi seemed to be reminiscing about something, his eyes filled with guilt and regret.


    "Yes, Master. He''s holding onto thest piece of evidence left by my father, which is also the most crucial one," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    With a flip of his hand, Tian Xingzi produced a white token. The token was shaped like arge wolf''s head and emitted a peculiar aura.


    As Tian Xingzi gently touched the token, he fell into silence, as if lost in thought.


    "Zhong Shan," Tian Xingzi suddenly called out.


    zhongshan furrowed his brows, unsure why Tian Xingzi had called him, but he still respectfully replied, "Yes, Master."


    "In ten days, you will apany Qingsi to the Wolf Domain," Tian Xingzi said after some thought.


    "Um? Master..." Zhong Shan looked puzzled as he nced at Tian Xingzi.


    "At that time, Qingsi will take you there to meet that person. Qingsi will retrieve the evidence, and you will apologize to him on my behalf and invite him to Kaiyang Sect," Tian Xingzi took a deep breath, a hint of resentment shing in his eyes.


    "Senior brother, you want to invite that person back?" Gu Shaozi immediately eximed in surprise.


    "Yes, Ling''er has grown up now, but her grudge with Wuyou remains unsettled to this day. I don''t even know who the enemy is. Although Wuyou didn''t choose him back then, I believe he has always remembered her. I must avenge Wuyou, even if it means sacrificing my life. We can''t find the culprit, only he with his unique abilities can. If I go, he will definitely not want to see me, so Zhong Shan, you will go in my ce," Tian Xingzi said, his gaze gradually shifting towards Zhong Shan.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan immediately replied.


    "Zhong Shan is my disciple, and Tian Sha is also my disciple. You two will apany Qingsi together and make sure to bring him back for me," Tian Xingzi said solemnly.


    "Yes, Master, I will do my best," Zhong Shan replied solemnly.


    "Good, I trust you. Take thisst ''Essence of Clouds'' with you and be careful," Tian Xingzi handed over a fist-sized cloud-like object.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan felt a surge of joy in his heart but still calmly epted the ''Essence of Clouds,'' saying, "Yes, Master. May I know the name of the senior?"


    Grasping the ethereal Essence of Clouds, Zhong Shan tucked it away carefully. He looked at Tian Xingzi with reverence.


    "He is called ''N�� P��s��''," Tian Xingzi sighed softly.


    N�� P��s��? Zhong Shan repeated the name silently in his mind before nodding.


    "You and Batian can go now. Qingsi will stay," Tian Xingzi said.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan replied immediately.


    "Master, I take my leave," Nan Batian said to Xuan Xinzi.


    "Very well," Xuan Xinzi nodded.


    Then, Zhong Shan and Nan Batian slowly walked out of the hall.


    "Batian, when did youe back?" Zhong Shan asked immediately as they left the hall, a hint of joy on his face.


    "I''ve been back for two months now, but I haven''t seen you," Nan Batian replied promptly.


    "Uh, I''ve been condensing my true essencetely, so I went to practice near me Mountain Peak. Come, let''s go to my ce, Ting Shui Pavilion," Zhong Shan said promptly.


    "Okay." Nan Batian agreed readily. It had been a long time since theyst met, so they naturally needed to catch up.


    At the Ting Shui Pavilion, next to the deep pool, Zhong Shan and Nan Batian sat facing each other, a teapot on the table between them. They poured themselves some tea and began sipping.


    "You said you joined the army this past year?" Zhong Shan frowned in confusion.


    Join the army? Nan Batian, with his cultivation, joining the army? Wouldn''t he be invincible? Wait, did Nan Batian join one of the military forces during the Yun Dynasty?


    "Yes, I''ve heard about the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation in the southern Eight Gates Mountain, and also about Haosan and Qiulong''s matters. However, after leaving the sectst time, I didn''t go south, as Master instructed me to go north instead. There, I joined the Great Ming Dynasty and started fighting battles as an infantryman. This scar on my face was left from a major battle five months ago," Nan Batian exined.


    "The Great Ming Dynasty? Can you tell me about the situation around us?" Zhong Shan asked, pondering.


    "Well, where we are is called Tiang Ind, located southeast of the Divine Land across the sea. I''m not very clear about the Divine Land, but I''ve heard Master mention Tiang Ind before," Nan Batian said after taking a sip of tea and thinking for a moment.


    Zhong Shan listened patiently, as he had established the Great Mount Empire himself and needed to understand the surrounding situation.


    "We''re in the western part of Tiang Ind. To the south, there are three areas with mortal kingdoms. As you mentioned before, the Great Kun Kingdom where you used to be is one of those areas. These kingdoms are mundane powers, not very powerful, but their locations are rtively favorable, so they haven''t been wiped out," Nan Batian exined.


    "There are three in total?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, three in total. The Great Kun Kingdom, where you used to be, is located in the central area, with two other areas to the east and west, separated by numerous mountains and rivers. This is in the south of Tiang Ind. To the north, however, there''s only one area, and it''s dominated by powerful dynasties," Nan Batian continued.


    "Dynasties?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, the northern territory is vast, muchrger than the three areas in the southbined. There are three major dynasties and one Yin Yue Imperial Dynasty. The emperors of these dynasties have at least reached the Yuan Ying stage in cultivation. The strength of any one of these dynasties is no weaker than the apparent strength of our Kaiyang Sect. However, the three major dynasties are collectively resisting the Yin Yue Imperial Dynasty and are being suppressed by it. You know how terrifying the Yin Yue Imperial Dynasty is, don''t you?" Nan Batian chuckled.

 Chapter 108 - 108 First Flight

    <h4>Chapter 108: First Flight</h4>


    "Yin Yue Imperial Dynasty? Is the scar on your face from battles with the Yin Yue Imperial Dynasty''s army?" Zhong Shan frowned as he looked at Nan Batian, examining the rugged scar.


    "Yes, the Yin Yue Imperial Dynasty is too powerful. In the vanguard Seventeenth Battalion where I was, there were three hundred soldiers. Even the battalionmander was a Golden Core stage powerhouse. But we were defeated,pletely annihted. Everyone except me perished," Nan Batian''s eyes flickered with intense sorrow.


    Pouring a cup of tea for Nan Batian, Zhong Shan sighed softly. The battlefield was merciless; he himself had experienced it. Watchingrades fall one by one, constantly being killed, it felt like being cut with a knife in the heart.


    "It''s good to be alive. We must live on for our fallen brothers and carry their memories," Zhong Shan said.


    "Indeed," Nan Batian looked at Zhong Shan in surprise, not expecting him to understand his thoughts.


    "What about the eastern region?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The east? East, southeast, northeast are all called the ''Wolf Domain,'' which is where you''ll be heading in ten days. This ind is called ''Tiang Ind,'' meaning it''s a world dominated by wolves. We''re rtively better off here, located to the west of Tiang Ind, where there are some immortal sects. However, going east, it''s all wolves. Except for a few hermits, no sect dares to establish themselves there. Even the previously mentioned Yin Yue Imperial Dynasty doesn''t dare to invade because it''s the wolves'' territory. Inside, there are the fiercest wolves in this world. Even if they were ced in the Divine Land, they would still be the most formidable wolves," Nan Batian exined earnestly.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "Anyway, it''s just hearsay, and I''m not very clear about it. I just know that it''s best to avoid going east. The wolves there are very powerful. Even wolves with cultivation levelsparable to our sect master can be found in abundance," Nan Batian added after a moment of thought.


    "Abundance?" Zhong Shan listened in horror. The sect master was at the Yuan Ying stage. Were the wolves in the east really that powerful?


    "Let''s not dwell on that. Your cultivation speed has been impressive these past two years. You''ve even reached the Sixth Heavenly Layer of Innate. Master said you might be able to help me break through. It''s been a while since I''ve wielded my de. Shall we give it a try?" Nan Batian suddenly suggested.


    "Give it a try? What''s your current cultivation level?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I''m at the peak of the Ninth Heavenly Layer of Innate, just one step away from the Tenth Layer," Nan Batian said confidently.


    "Okay," Zhong Shan agreed promptly. He needed the fight.


    "Tomorrow at noon, below Kaiyang Peak," Nan Batian said.


    "I''ll be there on time," Zhong Shan nodded.


    After a while, Nan Batian left. He didn''t dare to underestimate Zhong Shan. Although there was a threefold difference in their strengths, more than a year ago, Nan Batian had been defeated due to carelessness. At that time, he had underestimated Zhong Shan, despite only mentioning twoyers of power.


    Nan Batian knew that Zhong Shan had a secret method to rapidly increase his strength. He would stop when the time was right.


    Once Nan Batian had left, Zhong Shan slowly took out the ''Essence of Clouds'' that Tian Xingzi had given him. The Essence of Clouds was a rare treasure of heaven and earth, but it was only valuable to those below the Yuanying stage. For those at the Yuanying stage, it was worthless.


    The reason Tian Ling''er''s red ribbon could fly was that it had absorbed the Essence of Clouds. On the other hand, Zhao Suo Xiang''s Chang spear couldn''t fly because it didn''t contain the Essence of Clouds.


    Only cultivators at the Yuanying stage could soar through the heavens and earth. Those below the Yuanying stage, including those at the Golden Core stage, couldn''t.


    Golden Core stage cultivators could control swords to kill enemies, but in order to fly with a sword, they had to reach theter stages of the Golden Core stage. Even then, they couldn''t fly too far. Only by infusing the Essence of Clouds into a flying sword could they fly freely.


    Previously, most of the Golden Core stage cultivators Zhong Shan had seen flying on swords had infused their swords with the Essence of Clouds.


    The Essence of Clouds was extremely rare. Even ten thousand spirit stones couldn''t buy one. It was very precious and also a consumable. A single cloud could only maintain flight for a hundred years. After that, it would dissipate into nothingness.


    Carefully taking out therge de ''Nightmare,'' Zhong Shan gently ced the Essence of Clouds on it. As the Essence of Clouds melted into the de, Zhong Shan, who had a bloodline connection with the de, felt a strange energy filling it. It was under his control.


    Gently releasing the handle, Zhong Shan controlled the de with his mind. Surprisingly, the de floated in the air, motionless.


    This feeling was so peculiar, as if it was what Master had once described as Divine Sense, locking onto an object and controlling it. Just like the old man they had encountered at the volcano''s mouth, who controlled Zhong Shan and Ling''er with his Divine Sense. Now, this Essence of Clouds seemed to have replicated Divine Sense, controlling the de. However, it could only control this de and nothing else.


    Moreover, the strength of this Divine Sense-like control was at least at the level of the Yuanying stage or higher.


    The world was truly full of wonders. The Essence of Clouds was indeed miraculous.


    Gently stepping onto the de, Zhong Shan floated into the air. He was flying! As he soared higher, Zhong Shan carefully controlled his body to prevent himself from falling. At the same time, he felt an indescribable excitement at the sensation of soaring.


    "Wooohooo!"


    Flying, a miraculous dream�� who hasn''t dreamt of it? Who wouldn''t want to fly? Zhong Shan could fly now, even at the age of eighty-two, and he couldn''t help but let out a loud shout of excitement. But it was just one shout.


    Filled with intense excitement, Zhong Shan swiftly soared around the Kaiyang Sect, mastering various difficult flying techniques in no time. After an hour, Zhong Shan had mastered multiple high-difficulty maneuvers such as diving, arching,rge loops, and bungee-like movements. He tried them all and mastered thempletely.


    After flying for nearly two hours, Zhong Shan finally calmed down from his excitement. He slowlynded at the Ting Water Pavilion, ready to digest this excitement and prepare for tomorrow''s battle.


    Zhong Shan''s flying within the Kaiyang Sect also attracted a lot of attention.


    Tian Xingzi stood on the Kaiyang Peak, watching Zhong Shan''s powerful understanding with a heart full of sighs. He stroked his beard, his eyes filled with satisfaction.


    This was Zhong Shan''s first time flying, and he had performed so many maneuvers unexpectedly. His intelligence was truly different from others.


    In the Snow Bamboo Peak, Bei Qingsi stood behind the Lonely Widow, also watching Zhong Shan flying in the distance, her eyes filled with tenderness.


    In a secluded valley, Nie Qingqing looked up and saw Zhong Shan flying in the sky. Anger shed in her eyes as she clenched a pine seed in her hand, several times she wanted to throw it towards the sky, but in the end, she held back.


    Tian Sha and the other junior disciples also saw Zhong Shan flying in the sky. Surprise and killing intent shed in their eyes.


    Back at the Ting Water Pavilion, Zhong Shan closed his eyes and meditated to recover. He knew he had been too ostentatious before, but who could resist the urge to show off when they could fly? Besides, with his intelligence, status, and current position in the Kaiyang Sect, what couldn''t he handle?


    The next day, somehow the news spread that Zhong Shan and Nan Batian would have a martial artspetition below the Kaiyang Peak. It quickly spread among the third-generation disciples. The second-generation Golden Core disciples might not be interested, but the third generation was excited. Nan Batian, a senior third-generation disciple, was known for his strength, and being at the Yuanying stage, but this time, he was going to spar with a person at the sixthyer of the Elemental Infant stage. What was going on?


    The third-generation disciples, who had joined just two years ago, were even more excited. The sixthyer of the Elemental Infant stage? In just two years? Of course, there were also a few who had reached the sixthyer of the Elemental Infant stage. Those four Elemental Infant stage cultivators who contended for the Spiritual Beadst time had also smoothly reached the sixthyer of the Elemental Infant stage.


    However, the further they went, the clearer it became to everyone how difficult eachyer of the Elemental Infant stage would be. Zhong Shan challenging his senior brother at the ninthyer of the Elemental Infant stage with his cultivation at the sixthyer?


    Therefore, arge number of third-generation disciples were already waiting below the Kaiyang Peak, standing in all directions, awaiting the arrival of Zhong Shan and Nan Batian.


    It seemed that Tian Xingzi also got wind of this news. He and Xuan Xinzi stood on the Kaiyang Peak, overlooking the area below. After all, their disciples were the ones participating in the martial artspetition.


    "Senior brother, how long do you think Batian will take to win?" Xuan Xinzi smiled slightly.


    "It''s hard to say who will win. How can you be sure that Batian will win? Can''t Zhong Shan win?" Tian Xingzi shook his head and smiled.


    "Judging from Zhong Shan''s performance in thestpetition, he should have a secret method to stimte his true essence. But after all, there is a threeyer difference between them. Batian also has his own secret techniques," Xuan Xinzi said.


    "Nan Batian didn''t seek out those at the ninthyer of the Elemental Infant stage or even the tenthyer. Instead, he chose Zhong Shan at the sixthyer. This shows how highly he regards Zhong Shan. And I think Batian wants to break through with this battle, so he probably won''t use any secret methods or his bloodline inheritance. Therefore, today''s oue is unpredictable," Tian Xingzi said with a slight smile.


    "Besides his innate talent, Zhong Shan''sprehension is extremely strong. He''s the most outstanding person I''ve seen. Since Batian chose him, it''s definitely going to be a fierce battle. I''ve also discreetly informed some of the third-generation disciples toe and observe and learn. After all, they are the future of the Kaiyang Sect," Xuan Xinzi nodded.


    "Let''s wait and see," Tian Xingzi nodded.


    Today''s martial artspetition was not attended by Tian Sha because he simply looked down on those at the Elemental Infant stage. Bei Qingsi stood in a corner silently, and even Nie Qingqing stood in another secluded area, observing Zhong Shan with a mysterious feeling. She wanted to see what was so special about him that made Ling''er so infatuated with him.


    It was almost noon.


    Zhong Shan appeared first in front of everyone.


    He walked slowly to the square below the Kaiyang Peak, ncing around at the third-generation disciples surrounding the square. Zhong Shan frowned slightly but didn''t say anything. Instead, he walked to the center of the square, leaned his sword against the ground, closed his eyes, and waited calmly.

 Chapter 109: Zhong Shan vs. Nan Batian

    <h4>Chapter 109: Zhong Shan vs. Nan Batian</h4>


    "Is that Zhong Shan? He''s already reached the sixth level of Innate Stage. Hong Niu, wasn''t it him who defeated youst time?"


    "Yes, after my defeat, I dedicated myself to training. I never expected that a yearter, he too would reach the sixth level of Innate Stage. I was nning to challenge him again, but he was nowhere to be found. Now, he dares to challenge someone at the ninth level? Hmph, he''s courting death."


    "But it takes a lot of courage to do that. Would you dare?"


    "I don''t need to. He''s bringing humiliation upon himself."


    In a corner, the disciple who was defeated by Zhong Shanst time was conversing with two other disciples who joined the Kaiyang Sect two years ago. Around them stood about fifty third-generation disciples, chatting in small groups, but almost all were skeptical about Zhong Shan''s chances.


    Zhong Shan stood in the center of the square with his eyes closed, indifferent to the cold stares and whispers around him. He was waiting for his opponent, Nan Batian.


    Finally, after the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, just before noon, Nan Batian, with a face full of scars, slowly walked over from another area.


    Nan Batian paid no attention to the others, knowing they were informed by the master. His focus was solely on Zhong Shan.


    Wielding arge guandao, he walked steadily to face Zhong Shan.


    "ng~~~~" The guandao struck the ground, and Nan Batian fixed his gaze on Zhong Shan.


    "Whoosh~~~~" Zhong Shan opened his eyes and slowly lifted hisrge saber from the ground.


    "Zhong Shan, I hope you will give it your all in this fight," Nan Batian said in a deep voice.


    Looking at Nan Batian, Zhong Shan solemnly replied, "I will do my best. Be careful."


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, the onlookers were taken aback. Shouldn''t Nan Batian be the one saying that? Yet, it came from Zhong Shan.


    "Good," Nan Batianughed heartily.


    After speaking, Nan Batian held his guandao vertically with one hand, grasping the end of the handle. With a single-handed motion, he swung the guandao downwards. The de''s edge glowed fiercely, and a strong, murderous aura surged towards Zhong Shan.


    "Celestial Demon Refinement Technique, second level!"


    Zhong Shan''s eyes widened, revealing his mastery of the second level of the Celestial Demon Refinement Technique, which tripled his strength, emanating immense power.


    Sidestepping swiftly, Zhong Shan''srge saber collided with the guandao.


    "Boom~~~~"


    A tremendous explosion echoed as a ripple spread from their feet, cracking the ground beneath them. The spectators were startled, some even gasped in surprise.


    Nan Batian''s strength was expected, but Zhong Shan, at the sixth level of Innate Stage? How could he match up?


    Even those who had mocked Zhong Shan earlier were now stunned into silence.


    Nan Batian, taking the duel seriously, exerted all his strength. When his first strike didn''t seed, he quickly retracted his guandao, creating a blinding arc of de light as he struck again towards Zhong Shan.


    At the ninth level of Innate Stage, Nan Batian''s speed and power were significantly superior.


    From the outset, Zhong Shan wielded triple his normal strength. He knew that if he had only doubled his power, he would have already lost to Nan Batian''s initial strike.


    With triple the strength, Zhong Shan met the blow, eyes wide with intensity. His horizontal saber struck back at Nan Batian with incredible speed. Malevolent energy surged from his de, creating a massive sh that shot towards Nan Batian. As the dark energy quickly refilled his saber, another wave of power surged forth, forming yet another deadly sh.


    Again and again, Zhong Shan unleashed his strikes, three consecutive waves of de energy rushed towards Nan Batian. The crowd gasped as four terrifying shes aimed straight at Nan Batian. Strangely, each of the three de energies seemed to target Nan Batian''s weak points. He could dodge them, but the only way to avoid all three left him open to Zhong Shan''s final strike.


    The spectators held their breath in disbelief. Was this truly the power of someone who had just reached the sixth level of the Innate Stage?


    "Roar~~~~"


    With a thunderous shout, Nan Batian''s massive guandao radiated golden light, cleaving downwards with overwhelming force. The unique shape and size of his weapon meant that, when swung with both hands, it carried far more power and momentum than a regr saber.


    Under the ferocity of Nan Batian''s strike, the enormous de energy seemed to form a cleaving canyon, capable of obliterating the three iing shes.


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted as he withdrew his saber, recognizing the overwhelming force of Nan Batian''s attack.


    "Boom~~~~"


    The sh obliterated Zhong Shan''s three shes, yet Nan Batian''s strike was far from over. The remaining energy crashed into the ground where Zhong Shan had been standing.


    "Boom~~~~"


    The impact left a ten-meter-long, two-meter-deep crater in the earth. Zhong Shan, having leaped aside, now descended from above in a powerful side sh.


    Intent on ending the battle, he unleashed all his malevolent energy, aiming to cut down Nan Batian.


    Nan Batian, unable to parry in time, dodged Zhong Shan''s de. His guandao swung to the side, countering with a powerful sh of its own.


    "Boom~~~~"


    Zhong Shan''s saber struck the ground where Nan Batian had stood, creating a deep and jagged ten-meter-long crater,parable to the one Nan Batian had made earlier. However, Zhong Shan knew his strength was still inferior; Nan Batian had weakened his strike after cleaving through three waves of de energy.


    The battle intensified, each strike faster and stronger than thest. The za became a chaotic scene of shing des and flying energy. The once stone-paved ground was now devastated, and ancient trees at the edges of the battlefield were felled in an instant.


    The spectators were wide-eyed in astonishment. The ferocity of the battle was beyond belief, and Zhong Shan''s relentless aggression left a deep impression on everyone.


    "Is that really someone who just advanced to the sixth level of the Innate Stage?"


    "Hong Niu, do you still want to challenge Zhong Shan?" a third-generation disciple asked the one who had previously lost to Zhong Shan.


    Hong Niu remained silent, stunned by the disy.


    On the peak of the mountain, Tian Xingzi watched with immense satisfaction, stroking his beard continuously. Beside him, Xuan Xinzi''s eyes widened in amazement. "Senior Brother, when you said Zhong Shan could contend with someone at the ninth level of the Innate Stage, I was skeptical. But now, I see you were absolutely right."


    "I didn''t expect this either. From what Ling''er told me, Zhong Shan had already faced a mid-stage Jindan expert and a severely injured peak Innate stage master when he was only at the fourth level of the Innate Stage. I suspected he could challenge higher levels. Recalling his rapid increase in strength during thepetition for the Kong Ling Pearl, I guessed he had some secret technique. But seeing it firsthand is still astonishing," Tian Xingzi said, shaking his head in amazement.


    "Yes, although Batian is at the ninth level of the Innate Stage, his de carries a murderous intent that even ordinary tenth-level Innate masters cannot withstand. Yet Zhong Shan not only holds his own but matches Batian strike for strike. It seems I underestimated him back then," Xuan Xinzi admitted, shaking his head in admiration.


    "He is currently only my nominal disciple. If you wish, you can formally take him under your wing," Tian Xingzi said suddenly, his tone serious.


    "Senior Brother..." Xuan Xinzi immediately frowned.


    "Hehe, if I am no longer around, please take good care of him for me," Tian Xingzi said mysteriously, his expression bing inexplicably solemn.


    However, Xuan Xinzi seemed to recall something and immediately frowned, saying, "Senior Brother, you promised Nie Wuyou that you would live well."


    "Ling''er has grown up now. But let''s not discuss this further for now; we can talk about itter," Tian Xingzi quickly changed the subject.


    "Very well," Xuan Xinzi responded, still frowning, but he nodded after looking at Tian Xingzi.


    The battle between Zhong Shan and Nan Batian raged on, both fighters narrowly escaping peril with each strike. In the shadows, Bei Qingsi watched with furrowed brows, a trace of worry in her eyes.


    Elsewhere, Nie Qingqing squinted her eyes, continuously praying for Nan Batian to strike Zhong Shan down. If that happened, Ling''er would be freed. However, Zhong Shan''s extraordinary ability to triple his strength was baffling. Even with this power, he should not have been a match for Nan Batian, yet he held his ground, fighting on equal terms.


    "Roar~~~~"


    Three incense sticks'' timeter, both Zhong Shan and Nan Batian let out a thunderous roar as their des shed.


    "Boom~~~~"


    The already ruined ground suffered further destruction from the massive impact. Both fighters were forced to retreat.


    Nan Batian staggered back two steps, stabilizing himself by nting his guandao into the ground. Zhong Shan, on the other hand, was pushed back about ten steps, only managing to stop himself by crushing a boulder behind him.


    This sh was intentional on Zhong Shan''s part. He knew the effect of his Celestial Demon Refinement Technique would end in the time it takes one incense stick to burn. If he couldn''t gain the upper hand in this time, continuing to fight would only lead to defeat.


    As he steadied himself and was about to dere the end of the duel, Nan Batian suddenly sat down cross-legged and closed his eyes, entering a state of deep meditation. No, he was breaking through!


    Nan Batian had finally reached a breakthrough?


    The fight was over, but the waves of astonishment in the hearts of the spectators had not subsided. Could Zhong Shan really have only entered the Kaiyang Sect two years ago?


    Tian Xingzi and Xuan Xinzi exchanged nces, looking at the devastated za below. They slowly descended from Kaiyang Peak,nding in front of Nan Batian and Zhong Shan.


    "Greetings, Master. Greetings, Martial Uncle," Zhong Shan immediately said.


    Tian Xingzi nodded at Zhong Shan and said, "You may return now."


    Tian Xingzi knew Zhong Shan had used a secret technique, which likely had side effects, so he wanted Zhong Shan to go and recuperate as soon as possible.


    "Yes, Master," Zhong Shan nodded and quickly headed towards Ting Shui Pavilion. With Xuan Xinzi watching over Nan Batian, there was no need to worry.


    Seeing Zhong Shan leave, Bei Qingsi also turned and left. Nie Qingqing, however, red hatefully at Zhong Shan''s departing figure but did not follow him.


    The third-generation disciples around them watched Zhong Shan leave, their expressions now filled with respect and awe. This was a true strongman, and strongmen always deserved respect.

 Chapter 110: The Iron Spear Sect

    <h4>Chapter 110: The Iron Spear Sect</h4>


    Half a monthter, in a secluded valley east of the Kaiyang Sect, three figures descended into the depths of the valley.


    Zhong Shan, Tian Sha, and Bei Qingsi had embarked on a mission five days earlier, as instructed by Tian Xingzi, to find the Mud Buddha in the Wolf Territory. Unlike Tian Sha and Bei Qingsi, Zhong Shan, still at the Innate Stage, needed rest after five days of relentless travel.


    Zhong Shan copsed under arge tree, closing his eyes to rest. With the sky darkening, the three decided to continue their journey the next day. Given that Bei Qingsi was a woman, it was inappropriate for her to stay close to the men, and Zhong Shan''s habitual caution led him to rest apart from Tian Sha. The valley was rtively safe, so they each took a corner for themselves.


    Zhong Shan fell into a deep sleep, while Bei Qingsi set up a protective g array not far away, concealing herself within a shroud of faint white mist. This mist made it impossible for outsiders to see inside. Meanwhile, Tian Sha was meditating in another area, but his mind was not at ease. He kept his eyes open, watching the white mist surrounding Bei Qingsi and then ncing at Zhong Shan sleeping under the tree.


    A sh of murderous intent crossed Tian Sha''s eyes. Over the past five days, he had observed an unusual connection between Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi. Known for her cold and aloof demeanor, Bei Qingsi had always been distant, even towards Tian Sha, her senior brother. Yet, her conversations with Zhong Shan were surprisingly gentle, a stark contrast to her usual icy tone. Recalling the incident at the hot springs, Tian Sha found it hard to dismiss his suspicions.


    Casting a cold nce at Zhong Shan, Tian Sha''s murderous intent grew stronger. In the dead of night, he quietly stood up, a fierce look in his eyes as he approached Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan appeared to be in a deep sleep, or at least that was Tian Sha''s perception. He seemedpletely unaware of the impending danger.


    As Tian Sha drew closer, his right hand rested on the hilt of his sword. At a distance of eighty paces from Zhong Shan, he stopped, staring intently. Killing Zhong Shan seemed so easy at this moment��one swift strike, and Zhong Shan would be dead, eliminating his ''rival.'' Taking several deep breaths, Tian Sha slowly released his grip on the sword hilt.


    Killing Zhong Shan was easy, but he couldn''t afford to do it now. Not only was this mission for their master, but Bei Qingsi''s presence also deterred him. If he were to act now, she might intervene.


    Despite loosening his grip, the murderous aura in Tian Sha''s eyes remained. Unable to bear the sight of Zhong Shan any longer, he decided to leave. With a powerful leap, Tian Sha bounded up to the mountainside and out of the valley, clearly frustrated and agitated.


    As Zhong Shan slept deeply, his eyes suddenly snapped open the moment Tian Sha departed. He quickly sat up and looked around, first towards Bei Qingsi''s g array and then towards the spot where Tian Sha had been meditating. Tian Sha was no longer there.


    Staring at the empty spot at the base of the mountain, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. Tian Sha had ns against him?


    Previously, Zhong Shan had been in a dead sleep, exhausted from days without rest. Normally, he would have been impossible to wake, but now, he felt a looming threat from Tian Sha.


    Despite appearing to sleep deeply against the tree, Zhong Shan wasn''tpletely unguarded. His cultivation might not be high, but his life experiences had made him perpetually vignt. Before falling asleep, he had scattered the scent of a peculiar insect from a pouch at specific points, while using a different kind of pollen near his nose. If anyone approached within a hundred steps, the pollen would release a pungent odor, waking Zhong Shan instantly. He had merely pretended to remain asleep. Tian Sha approaching him in the middle of the night was certainly not a good sign.


    Quietly standing up, Zhong Shan paced back and forth, ncing again at the ce where Tian Sha had been. Resolutely, he walked towards Bei Qingsi''s g array.


    As he approached, the g array rippled, and Bei Qingsi sensed his presence. She stood up, waved her hand to retract the array, and looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, have you rested well? Is there something you need?" Bei Qingsi asked, puzzled. She nced around the valley and noticed that Tian Sha was also missing.


    "Qingsi, can we talk?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Sure," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    They found arge stone to sit on.


    "Last time at Kaiyang Sect, your clothes were torn in many ces. Did you encounter danger?" Zhong Shan asked after some thought.


    "Yes, that treacherous minister sent people after me," Bei Qingsi sighed softly.


    "The one responsible for the downfall of your family?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes. Although I killed most of themst time, one escaped. Knowing I am still alive, they will surely send more. So, after obtaining the final piece of evidence from the mud deity, I must leave immediately," Bei Qingsi said with determination.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan frowned and asked, "How did they find you?"


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Bei Qingsi shook her head and sighed, "It''s my silver hair and eyebrows. Although some in the cultivation world have this feature, it''s extremely rare. It''s the mark of my Bei family''s bloodline, making me easy to find."


    Gazing at Bei Qingsi''s beautiful silver hair, Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed slightly. "Can''t you change its color?"


    "No, I can''t. I don''t have that ability yet. The awakening of my bloodline not only exposes my identity but also grants me inherited power. Last time, if I hadn''t used the special power of inheritance, I wouldn''t be able to talk to you here," Bei Qingsi said softly.


    Though Bei Qingsi spoke lightly, Zhong Shan could sense the brutality of that day in her tone.


    "What ability does the Bei family''s bloodline inheritance grant? Uh, I mean, how powerful are you now? Um,pared to Tian Sha?" Zhong Shan initially wanted to ask about the ability granted by the bloodline inheritance, but halfway through, he remembered Nan Batian. Nan Batian also had a bloodline inheritance ability, but even though he had a close rtionship with Tian Linger, he refused to acknowledge it. It was evidently a taboo topic.


    Right, how could such life-saving knowledge bemon knowledge? Therefore, Zhong Shan changed his question midway.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Bei Qingsi smiled slightly and, following his question, ignored mentioning the abilities granted by bloodline inheritance. Instead, she thought for a moment and said, "I should be a bit stronger than Senior Brother."


    A bit stronger? Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up. Bei Qingsi''s temperament was very reserved, so if she said "a bit stronger," it definitely meant stronger than Tian Sha.


    ording to what the Master said, Tian Sha''s strength had already reached the level where he could threaten the early stage of Yuan Ying. So, wouldn''t Bei Qingsi''s strength be stronger than the average early stage of Yuan Ying?


    "How much longer until we enter the Wolf Domain?" Zhong Shan thought for a moment before changing the topic.


    "In another half day. To the southeast are the Mingjian Pavilion and the Iron Spear Gate, the two sects closest to the Wolf Domain. After passing these two sects and flying east for three more hours, we''ll enter the Wolf Domain," Bei Qingsi said after some thought.


    "Iron Spear Gate?" Zhong Shan suddenly frowned.


    "Why? Do you know them?" Bei Qingsi asked, puzzled.


    "Well, I have a friend there, and it seems Iron Spear Gate has encountered some trouble. Can we pass through Iron Spear Gate tomorrow?" Zhong Shan looked at Bei Qingsi and asked.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Bei Qingsi paused for a moment and nodded finally, agreeing.


    Afterward, the two of them continued to talk to each other until dawn approached. It was only then that Zhong Shan once again turned the conversation to Bei Qingsi''s silver hair and eyebrows.


    "Can I take a look at your hair?" Zhong Shan suddenly asked.


    "Uh?" Bei Qingsi clearly was taken aback, a hint of surprise shing in her eyes.


    "Don''t misunderstand, I just want to see the texture of your hair. Perhaps, I have a way to change the color of your hair," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Uh?" Bei Qingsi''s eyes shed with astonishment, then she nodded.


    With Bei Qingsi''s permission, Zhong Shan reached out and gently examined a strand of her long hair from behind her head.


    Bei Qingsi''s long hair was incredibly smooth, holding it in his hand, Zhong Shan felt reluctant to let go. Moreover, it emitted a hint of chilliness.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan carefully examined it, a confident smile gradually appearing on his face.


    At that moment, Tian Sha, who had been brooding, returned on his flying sword from afar.


    But the sight that met Tian Sha made his blood boil. What was happening? Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi were sitting together, Bei Qingsi was gazing ''affectionately'' at Zhong Shan, while Zhong Shan was holding Bei Qingsi''s long hair, with a ''silver smile'' on his face. That treacherous couple!


    Tian Sha''s face flushed slightly with anger, his fists clenched, wishing he could chop Zhong Shan with a sword. As for the previously proud Bei Qingsi, her expression also chilled slightly. Normally as aloof as an iceberg, she turned out to be just like any other woman. Just another flirtatious flirt! Hmph!


    But Tian Sha hid it well. In the blink of an eye, his expression returned to normal, and he slowly descended into the valley.


    Zhong Shan also noticed Tian Sha at this moment, gently releasing the strand of Bei Qingsi''s silver hair. Bei Qingsi''s expression also returned to its former coldness.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi''s sudden change in expression, Tian Sha''s eyes became even more sinister.


    "Zhong Shan, aren''t you going to sleep?" Tian Sha frowned at Zhong Shan, his eyes sharp.


    But what did Zhong Shan have to fear?


    "Yes, Senior Brother, let''s set off," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Okay," Tian Sha nodded.


    Bei Qingsi also took out a white flying sword, and the three of them flew into the sky together.


    Although Zhong Shan''s flying speed was a bit slower, it was still better than traversing mountains and hills.


    During the flight, both Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi subtly veered towards the southeast. Tian Sha raised an eyebrow, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Senior Brother, I have an acquaintance in Iron Spear Gate. I want to take a look," Zhong Shan said in a single breath.


    Seeing that Bei Qingsi seemed to tacitly agree, Tian Sha''s heart filled with anger. Truly a treacherous couple! But Tian Sha still nodded on the surface, after all, Zhong Shan was still a disciple of Tian Xingzi. Moreover, there was Bei Qingsi by his side, so it was not convenient to act out.


    By noon, the three of them arrived at a distance from Iron Spear Gate. However, from afar, they stopped.


    Because, above Iron Spear Gate in the distance, there were shining spears radiating in all directions, with massive spear energies, each nearly a hundred zhang long, piercing through the surrounding mountains.


    "Boom, boom, boom..."


    A series of deafening booms echoed, countless mountains shattered by the spear energy, or pierced through, leaving behindrge holes.


    After the continuous bombardment, arge amount of dust rose up, countless stones and wood debris shot up into the sky, violently raging.


    "So powerful!" Bei Qingsi spoke softly.


    Indeed, it was incredibly powerful. Zhong Shan stared wide-eyed at the scene. It was a kind of momentum, a powerful momentum that could be felt even across severalrge mountains. Zhong Shan could sense the strength of the person who had released the spear energy just now.


    Too powerful. This wasn''t the Foundation Establishment stage, definitely not. The spear energy of the Foundation Establishment stage definitely wouldn''t be this strong.


    Nascent Soul stage?


    Iron Spear Gate only had one Nascent Soul stage expert, their Sect Master. Earlier, Zhong Shan had heard Zhao Suoxiang mention it. The Sect Master of Iron Spear Gate had gone out, could he have returned?


    Bei Qingsi looked at Zhong Shan, while Tian Sha also nced at him. However, their expressions were different.


    Bei Qingsi wanted to ask Zhong Shan if he still wanted to continue forward. After all, Zhong Shan came to visit his friend. But Tian Sha hoped Zhong Shan would continue forward, because there was obviously a big battle going on internally. If Zhong Shan happened to ''identally'' die there, Tian Sha could avenge him.


    "Senior Brother, Qingsi, can we fly closer?" Zhong Shan thought for a moment and said.


    "Sure," Bei Qingsi nodded lightly.


    But Tian Sha looked coldly at Bei Qingsi. ''Qingsi''? Zhong Shan actually called her by her name? Well, that''s fine.


    "Alright, Senior Brother''s friend is also my friend," Tian Sha immediately agreed.


    Nodding, Zhong Shan knew what Tian Sha was paying attention to. But what could he do about it?


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan stepped on his giant de ''Nightmare'' and swiftly flew towards the interior, close to the ground.


    After a while, the three of them stopped at a concealed location on a mountainside, looking down below.


    Seeing the scene below, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. Bodies, numerous bodies,y in the valley, totaling five hundred, all cultivators. Regardless of their cultivation levels, just the sheer number of casualties was enough to shock Zhong Shan.


    Because at Kaiyang Sect, from what he knew, there were barely more than two hundred people. This was only the surface of course, as Zhong Shan wasn''t aware of the hidden forces within Kaiyang Sect. But even so, there weren''t this many.


    Five hundred cultivators, regardless of their cultivation levels, the casualties were too heavy this time.


    Seemingly sensing Zhong Shan''s confusion, Bei Qingsi spoke softly, "Lower cultivation sects sometimes prioritize quantity over quality, unlike higher cultivation sects."


    "Ah," Zhong Shan nodded and continued to look down below.


    The bodies of the five hundred cultivators were all different, but most of them were holding long spears, with nearly three hundred bodies next to them having a long spear beside them. The rest had various weapons, including swords, knives, and staffs.


    Among the dead, there were also many living cultivators.


    At the foot of the mountain to the north, there were ten people wielding spears, with nine of them standing behind, all covered in wounds, blood staining their bodies, showing signs of exhaustion. However, their eyes were filled with a strong determination, a determination to die rather than surrender. Among these nine people was Zhong Shan''s friend, Zhao Suoxiang.


    Zhao Suoxiang''s left eye was swollen, blood dripping from the corner of his mouth, but his eyes still radiated a fierce killing intent as he stared directly ahead.


    Standing in front of the nine people was another spear-wielding person.


    He was an extremely muscr man, full of muscles, with a righteous aura between his brows. Holding a spear with one hand, the spear pointed forward, his eyes bursting with intense anger.

 Chapter 111: A True Hero Only Seeks a Worthy Death

    <h4>Chapter 111: A True Hero Only Seeks a Worthy Death</h4>


    Ten spear-wielding men stood resolute, and with a single nce, Zhong Shan could discern their strengths and weaknesses. The leader among them was undoubtedly the one who had just unleashed a tremendous wave of spear energy��a Nascent Soul stage master and the Sect Master of Iron Spear Gate.


    "The Sect Master of Iron Spear Gate, Qiang Wudi," Bei Qingsi whispered softly.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded slightly, his eyes shifting to the enemies Qiang Wudi pointed at��the ones who had broken through Iron Spear Gate''s formation and ughtered many of its members.


    The enemies were divided into three factions. One faction wielded swords, another wielded sabers, and the third was a mixed group with various weapons, each faction numbering around two hundred men.


    At the forefront of each faction stood a leader, and in the center of these leaders was a man d in a ck robe.


    "Those three factions are from Mingjian Tower, Tianyou Valley, and Wanmo Sect. Their leaders stand at the front. The man in the ck robe, however, is unknown," Bei Qingsi exined to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nodded. He had already learned from Zhong Mansion that these three sects were besieging Iron Spear Gate, and it seemed the conflict had dragged on until today. Or perhaps Iron Spear Gate had managed to hold out until now.


    "Qiang Wudi, I didn''t expect you to return from Shenzhou so soon," the ck-robed man suddenly spoke in a deep voice.


    As soon as he spoke, Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed because he recognized the voice. Staring at the ck-robed man, Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold. That voice��he would never forget it for the rest of his life. It was Leiting, the Thunder General, who had fought with the Thunder Scorpion during the Thunder Flower incident. Zhong Shan hadn''t expected him to be involved in this matter as well.


    "Hmph," Qiang Wudi snorted coldly, not even ncing at Leiting. Instead, his gaze turned to the Sect Master of Mingjian Tower.


    "I never expected Mingjian Tower to fall so low," Qiang Wudi said coldly.


    After all, Iron Spear Gate and Mingjian Tower had always supported each other. Who would have thought that today, Mingjian Tower would join forces with two other sects to besiege Iron Spear Gate, killing most of its disciples in the process?


    "Fallen? Hahaha, Mingjian Tower fallen? Your Iron Spear Gate is not without traitors. If it weren''t for them opening the gate formation, would so many of your people have died? Yes, you''re back, but it''s toote. Iron Spear Gate is already a thing of the past. Only a handful of you are left, and you think you can turn the tide? Just you and these nine remnants? Can you defend this spirit stone mine?" The Sect Master of Mingjian Tower sneered.


    The Sect Masters of Tianyou Valley and Wanmo Sect also smiled faintly. The three sects had attacked Iron Spear Gate precisely for its vast reserves of spirit stones.


    Qiang Wudi''s brows knit together as he scanned the faces of the three sect masters before finally turning to Leiting.


    "Mingjian Tower, Tianyou Valley, and Wanmo Sect��there''s no way you three would be so united. Someone must be pulling the strings. Thunder General, the ws of your Yin Yue Dynasty are reaching too far," Qiang Wudi suddenly said, his gaze sharp on Leiting.


    With a slight gesture, Leiting removed his ck hat, revealing a confident smile.


    "Mingjian Tower, Tianyou Valley, and Wanmo Sect are all nearby, but your Yin Yue Dynasty is in the extreme north. Do you also want a share of the spirit stone mine?" Qiang Wudi asked calmly.


    "Hahaha, you needn''t worry about that. We''ve already agreed. I don''t want a single spirit stone. I only need the Iron Spear Gate''s legacy artifact��the Heart of the Spear. If you hand over the Heart of the Spear now, you can leave with your disciples, and I guarantee no one will stop you," Leitingughed heartily.


    "Then let''s fight!" Qiang Wudi dered, his spear twirling and pointing directly at the Sect Master of Mingjian Tower.


    With a tremor, the spear in his hand transformed into a formidable hundred-zhang-long spear aura, thrusting fiercely towards the Master of the Mingjian Sect.


    The spear aura, like a striking dragon, shot straight at the Mingjian Sect Leader. Simultaneously, a massive energy leopard materialized around the spear aura, pouncing rapidly towards the sect''s leader as soon as it appeared.


    "Roar��������������������������������"


    The giant leopard, towering at a hundred zhang high, lunged forward with the ferocity of a starving predator, seemingly intent on tearing apart everyone in the Mingjian Sect. With a thunderous roar, it closed in on the sect leader in the blink of an eye.


    "Boom��������������������������������"


    The Mingjian Sect Leader responded with a swift motion, waving his sword to form a hundred-zhang-long sword aura. When the ferocious spear aura collided with the sword aura, an explosion of dazzling white light ensued, radiating outward like a sunburst from the center of their sh.


    The earth trembled, and even the distant peaks of Zhongshan Mountain quivered from the impact. In the blinding sh, Zhong Shan caught a glimpse of two other sect leaders and the Thunder General joining the fray.


    "Boom��������������������������������"


    Another deafening explosion followed, apanied by an even more blinding light, rendering the entire valley invisible for a moment. When the light subsided, Gun Wudi, the three sect leaders, and the Thunder General had all vanished from the valley below.


    "Boom, boom, boom..."


    Suddenly, a series of rumbles echoed from the distant sky. Looking up, Zhong Shan saw a gigantic orb of light high above. Inside the orb, immense energies of spear, sword, and de shed, continuously erupting outward.


    The leaders had taken their battle to the sky, wary of the devastating aftershocks endangering their disciples below. The strongest remaining in the valley were at the Golden Core stage, mostly from the lower sects.


    Nearly fifty elite warriors emerged from the three sects'' ranks, encircling the central group. These fifty were evidently all at the Golden Core stage, while the others, merely at the innate level, posed no significant threat.


    "Ha��������������������������������"


    Zhao Suoxiang and eight other Iron Spear Sect disciples pointed their long spears at their enemies. The prolonged fighting had deepened their enmity, bringing them to a point of life and death.


    "Qingsi, Senior Brother, there''s a friend of mine among the Iron Spear Sect. Could you lend a hand?" Zhong Shan suddenly asked.


    Zhong Shan was confident in Bei Qingsi''s abilities, hence his request. After all, Zhao Suoxiang had a personal connection with him and had helped him in the past.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan, Tian Sha furrowed his brows, a sh of coldness in his eyes. Your friend? What does that have to do with me?


    "Who is it?" Bei Qingsi asked directly.


    "The man in white, Zhao Suoxiang, the one with swollen eyes on the far east side," Zhong Shan pointed out straightforwardly.


    "Alright," Bei Qingsi nodded immediately.


    "Let''s go," Tian Sha suddenly called out to Zhong Shan, evidently agreeing to help. However, his true intentions were far from benevolent.


    Zhong Shan gave Tian Sha a puzzled look but nodded nheless. Tian Sha hoped to expose him, leading to his death at the hands of these cultivators?


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan agreed, tossing his broadsword and flying forward. Bei Qingsi and Tian Sha followed closely.


    The tension in the valley was palpable, and the sudden appearance of the three neers added anotheryer of unpredictability. They approached, flying on swords and des.


    "Zhao Suoxiang!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    At Zhong Shan''s shout, everyone froze and turned their cold gazes towards the three figures flying towards them.


    Zhao Suoxiang, already tense and exhausted from days of fierce battles, stiffened at the sudden call of his name. He turned his head skyward, his eyes widening in recognition.


    Zhong Shan?


    "Kaiyang Sect? Tian Sha?" a distant Golden Core stage cultivator eximed.


    The Golden Core cultivators halted in their tracks, looking at the three neers in astonishment. Tian Sha, the infamous senior brother of the Kaiyang Sect, was well-known. Why was he here? Was he going to intervene?


    "What do you want?" a blood-covered swordsman suddenly shouted towards Zhong Shan.


    "Zhao Suoxiang,e with us," Zhong Shan immediately replied.


    With Zhong Shan''s deration, the trio''s intentions were clear��they were here to take Zhao Suoxiang away. But Zhao Suoxiang hadn''t even reached the Golden Core stage yet. If it was just to take him away, so be it. There were still eight other Golden Core disciples of the Iron Spear Sect present.


    The eight Iron Spear disciples understood immediately. The Kaiyang Sect had no rtions with the Iron Spear Sect; these three were here solely to save Zhao Suoxiang.


    "Suoxiang, go with them," a spear-wielding disciple urged.


    "Go!" the others echoed in unison.


    "No, the Iron Spear Sect is my root. A true man seeks to die with honor. I, Suoxiang, would rather fight to the death with my uncles here than flee from the enemy to survive in disgrace," Zhao Suoxiang dered with unyielding resolve.


    Zhao Suoxiang''s bold words shook everyone. A surge of hot blood coursed through the veins of his eight uncles. This nephew of theirs exuded a rare heroic spirit, the true mark of a great man. Yes, dying with honor.


    In that moment, they no longer saw Zhao Suoxiang as a junior but as an equal, a brother in arms. Though his cultivation was the lowest among them, Zhao Suoxiang had shown no fear in battle, fighting ten foes at once for his sect, forsaking survival for solidarity.


    Across from them, the enemies frowned. Zhao Suoxiang was indeed a remarkable individual, despite his lower cultivation level.


    Flying nearby, Tian Sha furrowed his brows, a glint of respect in his eyes. He hadn''t expected Zhong Shan''s friend to possess such a heroic spirit. Bei Qingsi, however, remained indifferent, ready to save Zhao Suoxiang solely for Zhong Shan''s sake.


    In mid-air, Zhong Shan gazed at Zhao Suoxiang, unsurprised by his words. He knew Zhao Suoxiang well��honorable, trustworthy, loyal. If Zhao Suoxiang had chosen to leave, Zhong Shan would have misjudged him.


    "Zhong Shan, I appreciate your goodwill. The battle is chaotic; you should leave quickly," Zhao Suoxiang said, shaking his head.


    "Very well, then you alle with me!" Zhong Shan dered again.


    His words stunned everyone. Did he truly believe he could take nine people away?


    Initially, the Golden Core cultivators could ept him taking Zhao Suoxiang out of respect for the Kaiyang Sect. But now, he intended to take all the Iron Spear disciples? Impossible. They had killed so many of their brothers��how could they let them escape? Weapons were gripped tighter, ready to strike at any moment.

 Chapter 112: Bei Qingsi鈥檚 Abilities

    <h4>Chapter 112: Bei Qingsi''s Abilities</h4>


    "Very well, you alle with me!" Zhong Shan dered.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Zhao Suoxiang felt a warmth in his heart, casting a grateful nce at him. Zhong Shan''s heart swelled with satisfaction, knowing that Zhao Suoxiang''s gratitude was rare. From their past conversations, he knew that Zhao Suoxiang was very proud; such gratitude was likely only extended to his master or parents.


    As for Zhao Suoxiang''s uncles, while they were grateful to Zhong Shan, they understood that this gratitude stemmed entirely from their nephew.


    Tian Sha frowned, while Bei Qingsi remained expressionless.


    "Hmph, Kaiyang Sect? This is a grudge between us. You''d best not interfere," a distant swordsman called out.


    Zhong Shan cast a cold nce at the speaker and smiled slightly. For Zhong Shan, leveraging situations to his advantage was a specialty.


    Tian Sha harbored murderous intent towards him but, due to his master and Bei Qingsi, couldn''t openly express it. In a battle, Tian Sha would certainly find an ''idental'' opportunity to let Zhong Shan die at their hands.


    However, Zhong Shan had Bei Qingsi and the Iron Spear Sect to protect him. What was there to fear?


    "Those who can fly, take those who can''t ande with me. Senior Brother, please hold them off," Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Zhao Suoxiang and the others exchanged nces and quickly nodded. Tian Sha, though simmering with suppressed anger, could only nod reluctantly.


    "Whoosh��������������������������������"


    Four Iron Spear Sect members grabbed theirrades, including Zhao Suoxiang, and flew on their spears. Although they were all at the Golden Core stage, possessing Cloud Essence wasn''t asmon as in the higher sects like Kaiyang Sect. It was impressive that half of them had Cloud Essence.


    "Bastards��������������������������������"


    A Mingjian Sect disciple shouted furiously, shing his long sword towards them. A twenty-zhang sword aura, brimming with sword energy, shot towards Tian Sha.


    Tian Sha squinted, drawing his sword with a ''zing.'' The Mingjian Sect disciple was sent flying back.


    However, the enmity had already been established. These fifty Golden Core cultivators wouldn''t let the Iron Spear Sect members escape so easily.


    Around twenty cultivators took to the skies on flying swords or des, chasing after Zhong Shan, while the remaining thirty Golden Core cultivators ran on the ground. The speed of Golden Core cultivators on foot was terrifying. Although they couldn''t fly, their speed on the ground was not much slower than those on flying swords, especially since Zhong Shan wasn''t very fast.


    Seeing this, Tian Sha''s eyes lit up with glee. With pursuers, he could afford to show weakness.


    Tian Sha had mastered the ''Sky-Splitting Sword Technique,'' a sword art that hadn''t been sessfully practiced in a thousand years. Six months ago, he was already considered capable of threatening Nascent Soul stage cultivators. Such strength could have easily held off twenty or more Golden Core cultivators, but now he only held back eight, allowing the other forty-two to chase after Zhong Shan.


    Despite their speed, the pursuers were not weak, and soon the Golden Core cultivators caught up with them after crossing just two mountain ridges.


    The Golden Core cultivators surrounded the Iron Spear Sect members, their eyes filled with murderous intent.


    "Qingsi, please," Zhong Shan said to Bei Qingsi.


    Bei Qingsi looked at Zhong Shan without anyint, simply nodding directly.


    Under the oppressive aura of the Golden Core stage experts, the group descended near a broad riverbank, surrounded by their enemies closing in from all sides.


    "So what if you''re from the Kaiyang Sect? We showed you respect, and you rejected it. Don''t me us for what''s about to happen," one of the attackers sneered.


    "Do not engage," Zhong Shan instructed the Iron Spear Sect disciples beside him.


    Zhao Suoxiang exchanged nces with Zhong Shan, while the other eight looked at him with serious expressions. Though puzzled, they all nodded.


    Tian Sha, the most powerful senior brother of the Kaiyang Sect, had only managed to hold back eight Golden Core experts. Yet Zhong Shan seemed confident that Bei Qingsi, the third senior sister of the Kaiyang Sect, could handle the situation. Was she really stronger than Tian Sha?


    "Kill!" A Golden Core expert from Mingjian Tower couldn''t hold back any longer. A twenty-zhang sword aura, apanied by a massive amount of sword energy, surged towards Zhong Shan.


    "Hmph!" Bei Qingsi snorted coldly. Suddenly, a gigantic ice wall appeared in front of her, the freezing cold instantly blocking the sword aura.


    "Boom!" The full-force attack was stopped, but this triggered a chain reaction. Forty-two Golden Core experts attacked simultaneously. A barrage of sword and de auras filled the sky, making it seem as though the world was filled with nothing but their deadly energies, all converging towards Zhong Shan and hispanions by the river.


    Seeing the overwhelming disy of sword and de energies, Zhong Shan''s heart turned cold. It was terrifying. Thebined power of forty-two Golden Core cultivators could annihte tens of thousands of mortal soldiers with a single move.


    Zhong Shan had instructed the Iron Spear Sect members not to fight back as a precaution. He trusted Bei Qingsi but wanted to prevent any potential oversight. If something went wrong, the Iron Spear Sect members would surely protect him.


    Bei Qingsi did not disappoint. As countless sword energies descended, countless ice walls suddenly appeared, blocking the attacks. The ice walls rose and materialized out of thin air, intercepting the deadly energies. But the Golden Core experts'' sword auras weren''t merely decorative.


    "Crash!" Numerous ice walls shattered. The experts raised their swords and des, quickly shing towards the center. Bei Qingsi could block a dozen attackers from one direction, but she couldn''t cover all sides. The Golden Core experts above Zhong Shan also attacked, seemingly determined to kill the Iron Spear Sect members.


    To the Golden Core experts, Bei Qingsi''s defense was strong but not insurmountable. They believed that if a few of them could hold her off, the others could swiftly eliminate the already injured Iron Spear Sect members.


    The Iron Spear Sect disciples readied their spears, understanding there was no escape.


    "Whoosh!" Suddenly, a deafening roar sounded.


    From the direction of the river, the Golden Core experts were instantly swept away by a tremendous force.


    The river surged, and massive waves rose like a furious ocean, crashing towards the Golden Core experts.


    The sudden waves scattered the nearby Golden Core experts. The waves showed no signs of diminishing, growing higher and higher until they reached a hundred zhang, draining the river ten meters deep in an instant.


    "Crack, crack, crack, crack!"


    A series of cracks sounded. The towering waves behind them froze in an instant, transforming into a massive cier.


    Zhongshan widened his eyes, as did the disciples of the Iron Spear Sect, and the numerous experts in the Golden Core realm. How could this be?


    Countless chunks of ice surrounded Zhongshan and hispanions, forming a safe zone around them. Meanwhile, a figure d in white robes, her long hair trailing behind her, strode forward atop a stretch of unfrozen river water.


    Standing atop a towering cier, her longsword pointed towards the group of Golden Core experts.


    Several powerful individuals standing close to the cier witnessed a sudden eruption of fifty-zhang tall ice spikes, narrowly missing piercing through their clothes and bodies, thanks to their swift reflexes.


    As the upstream river water continued to flow, the cier expanded, controlled effortlessly by the figure in white. Under hermand, the ice formations transformed into massive waves or sharp ice spikes, at her whim.


    With a cold gaze, she surveyed her surroundings, causing the besieging Golden Core experts to retreat in fear, their hearts chilled. Is this still the power of the Golden Core realm?


    Even the disciples of the Iron Spear Sect widened their eyes, realizing that such abilities could only be wielded by Nascent Soul experts. Bei Qingsi? No wonder Zhongshan was so confident. Bei Qingsi had already surpassed her status as the second-generation disciple of the Kaiyang Sect; she had ascended to be a first-generation disciple, a Nascent Soul expert. What was there to fear?


    Zhongshan gazed at Bei Qingsi, a hint of admiration shing in his eyes. He knew better than anyone that Bei Qingsi had reached the Nascent Soul realm. Was this ability to freeze water into ice formations her bloodline inheritance, or just a small part of it? Was the true power of her bloodline inheritance far greater than this?


    The assants hesitated, each of them retreating from the cier, their eyes filled with intense solemnity, exchanging nces with one another, swallowing nervously.


    "Hmph," Bei Qingsi snorted coldly.


    With her snort, a sudden chill enveloped the entire area. A deluge of frost and snow descended from the sky, while endless ice spikes shot forth from the cier towards the Golden Core experts.


    "ng, ng, ng..."


    The Golden Core experts swiftly defended themselves, shattering the ice spikes with each strike, but their sheer numbers were overwhelming, far surpassing the earlier onught of sword qi.


    Retreating further, two hundred zhang away, the experts finally felt some relief. Gasping for breath, they surveyed the icyndscape before them.


    In the distance, as Tian Sha fought against eight Golden Core experts, he also witnessed Bei Qingsi''s dominance. Seeing this scene, Tian Sha widened his eyes in disbelief. He knew Bei Qingsi was powerful, but this was beyond belief. At the same time, he harbored much resentment towards Zhongshan, who was protected by Bei Qingsi.


    If not for Zhongshan, Bei Qingsi would be mine!


    With a surge of frustration, Tian Sha''s eyes gleamed with determination as he fiercely swung his longsword.


    "Swish~"


    An enraged Tian Sha cleaved a Golden Core expert in half, leaving them dead on the spot.

 Chapter 113: Tian Sha鈥檚 Frustration

    <h4>Chapter 113: Tian Sha''s Frustration</h4>


    Tian Sha showed no mercy. Although the eight Golden Core experts were formidable, they were no match for Tian Sha''s extraordinary talent and his formidable sword technique, the Heaven-Severing Sword Art. In a matter of moments, he had in four of them without suffering a single scratch. The remaining four felt a chill in their hearts and hastily retreated.


    Tian Sha flew towards the distant cier.


    Along the way, he was unstoppable. Two more Golden Core experts attempted to block him, but with a single, effortless strike from Tian Sha, they were both cut down.


    The onlookers retreated in fear.


    At this moment, Tian Sha''s formidable power was on full disy. These were Golden Core experts��each one was supposed to be immensely powerful, yet they fell to a single strike from him?


    Bei Qingsi frowned, while Zhongshan, standing beneath the distant cier, let out a coldugh. Zhao Suoxiang, standing nearby, also frowned and nced at Zhongshan.


    Tian Sha approached slowly, his imposing presence deterring any Golden Core expert from stepping forward. Bei Qingsi''s overwhelming strength had already instilled fear in the Golden Core experts, who could only watch the Iron Spear Sect disciples in the center with clenched teeth. They harbored resentment towards Tian Sha for killing their fellow disciples, but fear overpowered their hatred.


    Tian Shanded nearby, ncing at Bei Qingsi, then at Zhongshan, before casting a cold gaze around.


    So this is the strength of the Kaiyang Sect?


    "Boom!"


    A deafening explosion echoed from the sky above.


    High above, a brilliant light erupted, followed by an onught of sword energy, de energy, and spear energy raining down in all directions. Each st of energy was significantlyrger than that produced by Golden Core experts, measuring at least a hundred zhang in size.


    "Boom, boom, boom..."


    A series of devastating impacts followed, sting massive holes in the mountains and shattering giant boulders. Fortunately, these immense energies did not strike any people directly.


    As the brilliant light in the sky dissipated, a scene gradually emerged.


    Gun Wudi stood alone, facing four opponents. After a fierce battle, he hovered in mid-air, his face slightly flushed, eyes wide with intensity. His upper garment was in tatters, his chest stained with blood, but his fighting spirit remained undiminished. His spear pointed at the four opponents, blood dripping from its tip, a testament to the brutal fight that had just urred.


    The four opponents each wore expressions of shock. They had not anticipated Gun Wudi''s strength. The leaders of Tianyou Valley and Wanmo Sect each had a gaping wound in their shoulders, blood gushing out, with blood also trickling from the corners of their mouths, indicating severe internal injuries.


    The leader of Mingjian Tower, though not pierced by the spear, seemed gravely injured, blood seeping from his mouth as he red at Gun Wudi with fierce hatred.


    General Thunderp appeared to be in better condition, perhaps having held back during the battle, with only some damage to his ck robes, and otherwise unscathed.


    The leader of Tianyou Valley gripped his de, a look of shock in his eyes as he stared at Gun Wudi. Finally, with a slight tremble, he issued an order, "Disciples of Tianyou Valley, heed mymand."


    "Yes," came the response from the disciples below.


    "Retreat to the valley," the leadermanded softly, turning swiftly and flying towards the southwest.


    Seeing their leader depart, the disciples of Tianyou Valley quickly followed suit, gathering the bodies of their fallenrades and retreating southwest.


    "Wanmo Sect disciples, heed mymand," the leader of Wanmo Sect called out, clutching his shoulder.


    "Yes," the disciples responded immediately.


    "Retreat to the mountain," the leader of the Wanmo Sectmanded, immediately turning to fly away.


    Arge number of Wanmo Sect disciples followed closely behind.


    This left only the leader of Mingjian Tower and General Thunderp.


    Gun Wudi surveyed the scene below, then slowly descended to the cier. Although he wasn''t sure what had transpired, seeing the two protect the Iron Spear Sect members suggested they meant no harm.


    The leader of Mingjian Tower and General Thunderp also descended, followed by numerous disciples of Mingjian Tower. They quickly gathered around their leader, whether in the Golden Core or Innate stages. A disciple swiftly recounted the recent events to the leader. General Thunderp, on the other hand, red at Zhongshan from a distance.


    "You''re not dead?" General Thunderp eximed in surprise.


    Standing at the center of the group, Zhongshan met his gaze with a cold look and replied softly, "No, I''m not dead."


    No, I''m not dead! The words seemed to mock General Thunderp, as if to remind him that he should have crushed this insignificant ant thest time. The thought of having to report back to his emperor with this failure was intolerable. Zhongshan had to be eliminated.


    "Luo Mu, Gun Wudi is at his limit. We can kill him now," General Thunderp dered.


    Wiping the blood from the corner of his mouth, the leader of Mingjian Tower, Luo Mu, looked ahead with a serious expression. Bei Qingsi? Tian Sha? From his disciples'' ounts, both disyed strength akin to the Nascent Soul stage.


    Regardless of whether these two were truly in the Nascent Soul stage, their power was undeniable. But was Gun Wudi really at his limit?


    Turning slightly, Luo Mu nced at General Thunderp, who was fixated on the young man in the center.


    "Hahaha, Luo Mu, Thunderp,e at me!" Gun Wudiughed heartily, his eyes gleaming with a wild intensity. It was as if he would charge at them if they didn''t make a move.


    Luo Mu''s brows furrowed with anger. "At his limit? If he were truly at his limit, why didn''t you go all out earlier? Hmph, you just want to kill that young man."


    "Indeed, I only need to kill that boy now," General Thunderp admitted, ring at Zhongshan with murderous intent.


    Hearing General Thunderp''s words, Bei Qingsi stepped forward, transforming the ice beneath her feet into water, andnded in front of Zhongshan. Tian Sha, unable to stay aloft alone, quickly followed suit.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi and Tian Shand near Zhongshan, General Thunderp''s eyes grew colder. "Well, well, I didn''t expect someone in the Innate stage to have such influence."


    Clearly, General Thunderp saw their actions as a deliberate move to protect Zhongshan.


    Bei Qingsi indeed intended to protect Zhongshan, but Tian Sha wished Zhongshan would die immediately. Hended out of necessity and now red at General Thunderp, internally screaming that he wasn''t there to protect Zhongshan. If General Thunderp attempted to kill Zhongshan, Tian Sha might even help restrain Bei Qingsi.


    But these thoughts remained unspoken. Tian Sha''s intense gaze at General Thunderp gave the impression he was very concerned for Zhongshan, making General Thunderp cautious. Someone who couldmand such protection in the Innate stage would be a significant threat in the future. He had to be eliminated to avoid future repercussions for himself and the emperor.


    Murderous intent flickered in General Thunderp''s eyes. Despite Tian Sha''s "protective" stance, he resolved to kill Zhongshan immediately.


    "Disciples of Mingjian Tower, heed mymand," Luo Mu suddenly called out.


    "Yes," the disciples responded in unison.


    "Return to the mountain," Luo Mu ordered.


    In Luo Mu''s view, facing three opponents with Nascent Soul-level strength, he couldn''t afford to take risks. Although Gun Wudi was clearly injured, the extent of his injuries was uncertain. Luo Mu couldn''t bet on this uncertain situation, especially with his own severe injuries and General Thunderp''s previous half-hearted efforts, showing they weren''t on the same side. Given the circumstances, he decided to retreat immediately.


    Without a word to General Thunderp, Luo Mu turned and swiftly led his disciples away.


    Seeing Luo Mu leave, General Thunderp''s eyes widened with frustration. He had hoped Luo Mu would stay and fight alongside him, but Luo Mu had made it clear he had no intention of doing so.


    As the Mingjian Tower disciples departed, Gun Wudi pointed his spear at General Thunderp.


    General Thunderp knew all too well how powerful Gun Wudi was. During their earlier battle, Gun Wudi had overwhelmed his three Nascent Soul-level opponents. The im that Gun Wudi was at his limit was just to convince Luo Mu. However, General Thunderp wasn''t certain about the true extent of Gun Wudi''s injuries.


    Facing Bei Qingsi and Tian Sha alone might not pose a significant threat to him, but if Gun Wudi focused his full strength on him, it would be a different story. With Luo Mu gone, he was left to deal with this formidable foe alone.


    What to do? Fight one against three?


    General Thunderp shot a cold, resentful nce at Zhongshan before leaping into the air and fleeing. He decided to temporarily abandon his n to kill Zhongshan.


    Watching General Thunderp''s retreating figure, Tian Sha felt a surge of frustration. Couldn''t he have held out a little longer?


    As the enemies retreated, Bei Qingsi waved her hand, and the hundred-zhang cier behind her suddenly melted, transforming back into a mighty river flowing downstream.


    Victory. They were saved.


    The Iron Spear Sect disciples were overjoyed, their eyes filled with the relief of surviving a near-death experience.


    "Poof!"


    Gun Wudi, his face already flushed, suddenly spat out a mouthful of blood. His body trembled and he copsed.


    "Master!"


    An Iron Spear Sect disciple cried out, rushing forward to catch the falling Gun Wudi. The others also hurried over in rm.


    "Master! Master!" The Iron Spear Sect disciples were frantic, quickly trying to feed him a pill.


    Gun Wudi waved his hand weakly, pushing the pill away. With difficulty, he said, "It''s no use. To defeat the four of them, I forcibly shattered my Nascent Soul. My energy is in chaos. There''s no saving me."


    "No, it can''t be, Master," a disciple cried, refusing to believe it, still trying to give him the pill.


    Closing his eyes, Gun Wudi shook his head, listening to his iron-blooded disciples weeping beside him. He sighed softly.


    "Zhao Suoxiang, kneel," Gun Wudi suddenlymanded.


    Zhao Suoxiang immediately moved in front of Gun Wudi, kneeling down before his master. His swollen eyes were filled with panic. Was his master really dying?

 Chapter 114: Encounter with the Wolf General

    <h4>Chapter 114: Encounter with the Wolf General</h4>


    Zhao Suoxiang knelt before Gun Wudi. The other disciples of Gun Wudi also seemed to realize what was happening, their eyes filled with tears.


    Gun Wudi, pale-faced, looked at Zhao Suoxiang and spoke softly, "You are all my disciples, but none of you can inherit my legacy. From the day Suoxiang entered the Iron Spear Sect, I noticed his talent. He was born for the spear. The Iron Spear Sect has not flourished under my leadership; it has withered to just a few of you. I am ashamed before our predecessors. However, I know that under Suoxiang''s leadership, the Iron Spear Sect will thrive. Although he is only at the Innate Stage, I still appoint Suoxiang as the next Sect Master. If anyone has any objections, speak now, or else you must fully support him from now on."


    "Disciple remembers the master''s teachings," the eight disciples responded in unison, kneeling.


    Previously, there might have been some dissent regarding Zhao Suoxiang, even with the master''s dying wish. But after the recent events, the disciples hade to fully support Zhao Suoxiang, despite his lower cultivation level.


    Gun Wudi nced at his disciples with a rare smile. He extended his right hand, slowly reaching towards Zhao Suoxiang''s forehead.


    Zhao Suoxiang did not flinch, allowing Gun Wudi to reach him.


    As Gun Wudi''s fingertip neared Zhao Suoxiang''s forehead, he said with some difficulty, "From today onwards, Zhao Suoxiang is the sixteenth Sect Master of the Iron Spear Sect."


    As he spoke, a silver light emerged from Gun Wudi''s fingertip��a silver spear. It shot into Zhao Suoxiang''s forehead and instantly disappeared.


    Gun Wudi''s hair turned white almost immediately.


    He was dying. His face wrinkled, and he looked much older.


    "Receive my legacy, the ''Heart of the Spear.'' From now on, you are the Sect Master of the Iron Spear Sect," Gun Wudi said, his voice trembling.


    "Yes," Zhao Suoxiang responded, kowtowing three times to Gun Wudi.


    "This ce is no longer safe. Assist Suoxiang and go to Shenzhou. Shenzhou is your true home," Gun Wudi instructed onest time.


    "Yes, Master," one disciple said, wiping away tears and choking on his words.


    Gun Wudi smiled weakly at the disciple and gently patted his head, "Others may not know, but our spirit stone mine is nearly depleted. Take the remaining spirit stones and leave quickly."


    "Master, half a month ago, we mined thest of the spirit stones," the disciple said, choking with emotion.


    "Good, that''s good," Gun Wudi said softly. Then he closed his eyes with a satisfied look and never opened them again.


    "Master!" "Master��" the disciples cried out in grief. Gun Wudi had died, but he had given all necessary instructions. He died with no regrets.


    After mourning, the disciples looked to Zhao Suoxiang.


    Zhao Suoxiang nced at his master, then at his senior uncles. epting his new role, he quickly said, "Uncles, please gather the bodies of our other disciples and give them a proper burial."


    "Yes," they responded, tears still in their eyes.


    Zhong Shan, Tian Sha, and Bei Qingsi watched from the side, not interfering. They couldn''t and shouldn''t intervene.


    As cultivators, they quickly gathered the bodies and conducted a brief burial. In less than an hour, it was all done, and the bodies were buried.


    On their journey to Shenzhou, Zhao Suoxiang led the remaining disciples, carrying the weight of their fallen master andrades. As they walked through the forest, they encountered a group of menacing figures��a pack of wolves led by a fierce general known as the Wolf General.


    The Wolf General, with his piercing eyes and powerful aura, blocked their path. "Who dares to trespass in my territory?" he growled.


    Zhao Suoxiang stepped forward, his spear at the ready. "We mean no harm. We are simply passing through on our way to Shenzhou."


    The Wolf Generalughed, a cruel sound. "Passing through? Not without paying a toll. Leave your valuables and you may go."


    Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes hardened. "We have nothing to give you. Stand aside, or face the consequences."


    The tension in the air was palpable as the two sides prepared for battle. The Wolf General sneered, "Very well. Let''s see what you''re made of."


    As the wolves lunged forward, Zhao Suoxiang and his disciples stood their ground, ready to fight for their survival and their journey to Shenzhou.


    In front of a grand tomb, Zhao Suoxiang and eight disciples of the Iron Spear Sect bowed repeatedly. Gradually, the sorrow on their faces was reced by a resolute determination.


    "Master, shall we depart for Shenzhou immediately?" one of the Iron Spear Sect disciples inquired.


    "Uncle, prepare yourselves. We will set off shortly," Zhao Suoxiang nodded.


    "Yes," the disciple replied promptly.


    Zhao Suoxiang slowly made his way toward Zhong Shan.


    Seeing Zhao Suoxiang approach, Zhong Shan turned and said, "Brother, Qingsi, please wait a moment."


    Tian Sha nced at Zhong Shan, furrowing his brow slightly but eventually nodded. Bei Qingsi had no objections.


    Zhong Shan met Zhao Suoxiang halfway, and the two, as if by mutual understanding, walked to a secluded spot.


    "Zhong Shan, I truly thank you for this," Zhao Suoxiang said earnestly.


    "There''s no need for such formality between us; we are like brothers," Zhong Shan responded immediately.


    "No, today''s events will remain etched in my heart. No matter what, I thank you," Zhao Suoxiang insisted.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded, not dwelling on the matter.


    "We are about to head to Shenzhou. With your abilities, this Tiang Ind cannot confine you for long. One day, you will also step into Shenzhou, and we will meet again," Zhao Suoxiang said thoughtfully.


    "Indeed, when we meet in Shenzhou, we will celebrate with fine wine," Zhong Shan said with a heartyugh.


    "Good," Zhao Suoxiang nodded.


    Between men, words were often unnecessary. Zhao Suoxiang''s gratitude did not need to be spoken aloud; actions would suffice.


    "By the way, there''s something I need to tell you," Zhong Shan said after a moment''s thought.


    "Go ahead," Zhao Suoxiang replied promptly.


    "I am establishing a puppet dynasty, aiming to dominate the six kingdoms. Among these kingdoms, there are descendants of your Zhao family..." Zhong Shan said with a furrowed brow.


    Halfway through his exnation, Zhao Suoxiang understood Zhong Shan''s implication. With a swift motion, he produced a purple token and handed it to Zhong Shan, saying, "Present this token when the timees, and the Zhao family will follow yourmand."


    Seeing the purple token, Zhong Shan felt a wave of emotion. This token symbolized entrusting the fate of the Zhao family entirely to him. He epted it gently and nodded, "Rest assured, as long as I live, the Zhao family will prosper."


    Grateful, Zhao Suoxiang nodded and said, "Thank you!"


    Zhong Shan and Zhao Suoxiang continued their private conversation.


    In the distance, the others waited patiently.


    An hourter, the two men emerged from their secluded spot.


    Zhao Suoxiang, with the eight Iron Spear Sect members, headed westward. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan, Bei Qingsi, and Tian Sha flew towards the eastern Wolf Territory.


    As they departed, two men in red robes emerged from a hidden spot at the foot of a nearby mountain.


    One of them, with a cold gaze fixed in the direction Zhong Shan had flown, said to the other, "Inform the master that the remnants of the Bei family have appeared. I will follow her and mark the path. You all must pursue swiftly."


    "Yes," the other red-robed man replied.


    After flying for three more hours, Zhong Shan and hispanions finally arrived at the so-called Wolf Territory.


    At the border of Wolf Territory, countless wolf totems could be seen. The mountains seemed sculpted into giant wolves, standing tall in all directions.


    "Up ahead is the Wolf Territory. Follow me," Bei Qingsi said softly.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan and Tian Sha both nodded. The three flew deeper into the territory.


    As they soared through the sky, Zhong Shan noticed that wolves of various kinds popted thend below, their fur ranging in color from white to gray, ck, and red. In this short time, he saw many different species. Truly, this ce lived up to its name, appearing to gather all the world''s wolves in one region.


    The trio flew onward, thankfully without encountering any exceptionally powerful wolves. The deeper they ventured into the mountains, the more rugged the terrain became. The dense forests and high peaks, with ancient trees hundreds or thousands of years old, made thendscape incredibly challenging. For anyone unable to fly, traversing this terrain would be nearly impossible. Climbing even a single peak would be a formidable task. Thisnd was suitable only for wolves, with humans unable to formrge societies here.


    asionally, Zhong Shan asked questions, to which Bei Qingsi responded sinctly. Meanwhile, Tian Sha felt increasingly superfluous. Whenever Zhong Shan asked Bei Qingsi something, she responded minimally to Tian Sha but borated when speaking to Zhong Shan.


    This infuriated Tian Sha, but what could he do? In the Wolf Territory, Zhong Shan would no longer be in control. The territory was perilous; Tian Sha had only been there once with his master, and the memory was unforgettable. He thought to himself, "Just wait until we reach the inner Wolf Territory; that will be the end of you, Zhong Shan."


    As these thoughts festered in Tian Sha''s mind, a massive wolf suddenly leapt out from a distant valley. This giant red wolf, standing nearly fifty meters tall, appeared on a mountain peak directly ahead of them.


    A fifty-meter-tall wolf deliberately blocking their path?


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan frowned slightly. Bei Qingsi remained calm, but Tian Sha''s face showed a hint of pleasure.


    The enormous red wolf, standing atop the peak, shook its head as if stretching after a nap.


    Bei Qingsi led the trio in a slight change of direction.


    "Stop!" The giant red wolf suddenlymanded.


    A talking wolf?


    Hearing the wolf speak, Tian Sha tensed. He knew the wolf was strong but hadn''t anticipated it being this strong. ording to his master, if a wolf could speak humannguage, its strength surpassed even that of his master, Tian Xingzi.


    "Bei Qingsi of the Kaiyang Sect greets the Wolf General!" Bei Qingsi immediately stopped and respectfully bowed to the giant wolf.


    "Tian Sha of the Kaiyang Sect greets the Wolf General!" Tian Sha also bowed respectfully.


    "Zhong Shan of the Kaiyang Sect greets the Wolf General!" Zhong Shan followed suit.


    "Two at the Golden Core stage, one at the Innate stage. How dare you venture into the Wolf Territory with such feeble cultivation?" The Wolf General red at them.


    Hearing the Wolf General''s words, the trio was stunned. Two at the Golden Core stage? The Wolf General had instantly discerned the cultivation levels of Bei Qingsi and Tian Sha? Even those at the Nascent Soul stage couldn''t discern cultivation levels so easily. Only those two realms above could do so. Could this Wolf General be that powerful?

 Chapter 115: The Wolf General鈥檚 Astonishment

    <h4>Chapter 115: The Wolf General''s Astonishment</h4>


    The massive Wolf General, with his terrifying cultivation level, was rational enough not to kill the three immediately.


    "We three are here on orders from the Sect Master of the Kaiyang Sect, seeking an elder in the Wolf Territory. We hope the Wolf General will permit us entry," Bei Qingsi said respectfully.


    This was the wolves'' domain, so caution was necessary. Additionally, despite not being human, the Wolf General''s formidable cultivation warranted respect.


    "The Sect Master of the Kaiyang Sect? I don''t care about your Sect Master. Even if I let you in, other wolves will kill you unless you have a Wolf Token," the Wolf General said, shaking his head. His demeanor suggested he was merely looking for some amusement by giving them a hard time.


    Clearly, the Wolf General was bored and decided to entertain himself by making things difficult for the trio. On his own turf, he had every right to do so. The Kaiyang Sect''s Sect Master was of no concern to him.


    Expecting that the trio would have no such token, the Wolf General was surprised when Bei Qingsi produced a white wolf-head token, obtained from Tian Xingzi, from her palm.


    "Oh?" The Wolf General was taken aback. They came prepared?


    "This is the Wolf Token given to me by the Sect Master. Please have a look," Bei Qingsi said immediately.


    The Wolf General''s expression was somewhat embarrassed, but he still said, "Hmm, let me see it."


    Bei Qingsi used her flying sword to present the Wolf Token.


    "Sniff... sniff... sniff..."


    The Wolf General sniffed the token as if to verify its authenticity. He nced at Bei Qingsi with some surprise; it was indeed a Wolf Token. However, simply letting the three pass would be too damaging to his pride.


    "Alright, it''s a Wolf Token, but one token only allows one person to enter. The other two must go back," the Wolf General said, lifting his head and coldly barring Tian Sha and Zhong Shan.


    "Our master ordered us to seek the elder together. We ask for the Wolf General''s leniency to let us pass," Tian Sha said immediately. They had toplete the task as Tian Xingzi had instructed.


    "Even if I let you in, you would face near-certain death inside the Wolf Territory. Go back," the Wolf General said impatiently.


    "Once inside, our fate will be decided by heaven. We ask the Wolf General to let us enter," Tian Sha insisted.


    Hearing Tian Sha''s persistence, the Wolf General''s eyes narrowed, a hint of coldness shing in them. "Hmph, I said no entry, and I mean it. Leave now, or I will stop you myself!"


    "Senior Brother, I''ll go in first. Once Ie out, I''ll give you the Wolf Token, and you can enter then," Bei Qingsi said, frowning.


    "Wait!" the Wolf General suddenly shouted, interrupting their conversation.


    The three looked at the Wolf General, who was now staring wide-eyed at Zhong Shan, his gaze almost popping out.


    The Wolf General''s intense stare at Zhong Shan made Zhong Shan uneasy. Bei Qingsi moved closer to Zhong Shan, while Tian Sha looked at both Zhong Shan and the Wolf General curiously.


    "You there,e here!" the Wolf General called out to Zhong Shan.


    "Boy?" Zhong Shan was speechless. People used to call him "Old Master," but now, in front of this beast, he was a "boy"?


    However, given the situation, Zhong Shan had no choice but to fly towards the Wolf General.


    "Sniff... sniff... sniff..."


    The Wolf General sniffed the air again, his enormous mouth slightly agape, eyes filled with incredulity. He stared at Zhong Shan as if trying to see right through him, a mix of confusion, frustration, and puzzlement shing across his face.


    Watching the giant wolf, Zhong Shan was genuinely concerned the creature might swallow him whole. What did that conflicted, frustrated look mean?


    "Wolf General," Zhong Shan suddenly called out.


    The Wolf General snapped out of his reverie, eyes widening at Zhong Shan. "Hmm, you may enter as well," he said.


    "Huh?" All three were momentarily stunned. What was going on? Zhong Shan could enter too?


    "Thank you, Wolf General," Zhong Shan immediately bowed in thanks.


    Bei Qingsi''s eyes shed with confusion, while Tian Sha looked utterly frustrated. Why was Zhong Shan allowed entry?


    "Wolf General, why can he enter? He doesn''t have a Wolf Token," Tian Sha protested.


    Both Bei Qingsi and Zhong Shan turned to the Wolf General. Indeed, Zhong Shan didn''t have a token.


    The Wolf General red at Tian Sha, eyes wide. "I said he could enter, so he can enter. What? Do you have a problem with that?"


    "I wouldn''t dare," Tian Sha replied, clearly vexed.


    "Wolf General, without a Wolf Token, won''t Zhong Shan face danger inside?" Bei Qingsi asked, concerned.


    "Wolf Token? Who said he doesn''t have a Wolf Token?" the Wolf General retorted.


    The trio was stunned again. Zhong Shan had a Wolf Token? Where did he get one?


    "Senior Brother, let me carry out the master''s mission. I will bring the elder. You should return to the Kaiyang Sect and await our good news," Zhong Shan said to Tian Sha.


    Tian Sha, frustrated, could only nod grudgingly.


    "Take care, Senior Brother," Bei Qingsi added.


    With a resentful nce at the two, Tian Sha, full of frustration, flew away on his sword.


    Watching Tian Sha leave, Zhong Shan felt relieved. It was good to see him go. Turning to the Wolf General, Zhong Shan said, "Goodbye."


    Then, he and Bei Qingsi resumed their flight towards the east.


    The Wolf General stood atop the peak, watching Zhong Shan fly away. A strange mix of emotions��confusion, frustration��flickered in his eyes.


    "Could the Supreme One be interested in this boy? His cultivation level is so low. No, it can''t be. Could the Young Master have made a pact with him? No, I must find the Young Master and rify this," the Wolf General muttered to himself before sprinting off in another direction.


    Bounding from peak to peak with incredible speed, far surpassing Zhong Shan''s flying speed, the Wolf General quickly became a dot on the horizon.


    Meanwhile, from the west, where the Wolf General had been, a figure in red robes emerged. The red-robed person watched the Wolf General leave, then nced at the departing Tian Sha before following Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi into the Wolf Territory.


    Far ahead, Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi continued their eastward flight. Bei Qingsi, familiar with the route, led the way, while Zhong Shan took in the scenery.


    "Qingsi," Zhong Shan suddenly called out as they flew.


    "What''s wrong?" Bei Qingsi looked at Zhong Shan with curiosity, a hint of surprise shing in her eyes. Zhong Shan''s expression was very serious, as if he had something important to say.


    Flying alongside Bei Qingsi, Zhong Shan nced at her delicate face and gently said, "Be careful when you see Senior Brother in the future."


    "Huh?" Bei Qingsi''s expression paused for a moment at first, then gradually rxed as if she realized something. "Alright, I understand," she said softly.


    Bei Qingsi was a smart person, and Zhong Shan didn''t borate further. He just nodded along. No need to dwell on it.


    After flying for two days, the two found a valley to rest, mainly for Zhong Shan to recuperate. After eating something and resting for the night, Zhong Shan woke up the next morning to find Bei Qingsi gone?


    Zhong Shan quickly got up and searched around, climbing to the top of a mountain where he happened to see Bei Qingsi by a riverbank in the distance.


    The spot where Bei Qingsi stood was rtively damp, as if it had been flooded by arge volume of water. Her long hair flowed in the wind as she pointed her sword at a corpse in front of her.


    Zhong Shan swiftly flew towards Bei Qingsi.


    In no time, Zhong Shan arrived in front of Bei Qingsi, who slowly lowered her sword and turned to look at him.


    In front of Bei Qingsiy a frozen corpse, covered in thick ice. The body wore red clothes, nothing particrly remarkable. But Zhong Shan could tell that this person had died by Bei Qingsi''s hand.


    "Who is he?" Zhong Shan frowned and asked.


    "He was one of Jian Chen''s subordinates," Bei Qingsi replied coldly.


    "Have we been exposed?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "Yes, we must leave quickly. Jian Chen''s many subordinates will surelye after us soon," Bei Qingsi said.


    "Alright, let''s go," Zhong Shan said immediately��


    Meanwhile, in another part of the Wolf Territory, in a valley.


    The Emperor of the Yin Moon Dynasty, along with the person who had apanied him to the Eight Gates Mountain, stood together.


    The emperor looked at the kneeling Thunder General.


    "What? You didn''t get the Heart of the Spear?" the emperor asked.


    "No, the Invincible Spear was too powerful. We..." the Thunder General replied, ashamed.


    "Enough, if you didn''t get it, then forget it," the emperor said, furrowing his brow.


    But the Thunder General still looked ashamed. Seeing this, the emperor sighed lightly, clearly still concerned about the Heart of the Spear.


    "By the way, Your Majesty," the Thunder General suddenly remembered something and immediately spoke up.


    "What?" the emperor asked.


    "This failure lies in the hands of someone who should have been dead," the Thunder General said suddenly.


    "Who?"


    "The man we encountered when we obtained the Thunder Flower, the one in the Innate Realm," the Thunder General said.


    "What? He''s not dead?" the emperor eximed in surprise.


    Meanwhile, Mr. Shi, who was nearby, narrowed his pupils, a hint of surprise and anticipation shing in his eyes.


    "Yes," the Thunder General nodded and recounted the encounter with Zhong Shan from start to finish.


    After listening to the Thunder General''s ount, the emperor fell silent, furrowing his brow in thought. Finally, he looked at the Thunder General and said, "I always felt that this person was extraordinary. Now that he canmand two Nascent Soul stage cultivators to protect him, our grudge with him has deepened. Thunder, after we finish this matter, you are responsible for killing him."


    "Yes, Your Majesty," the Thunder General immediately replied.


    "At any cost," the emperor said coldly.

 Chapter 116: Breaking the Gang Arrow

    <h4>Chapter 116: Breaking the Gang Arrow</h4>


    Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi continued flying through the Wolf Territory. Along the way, they encountered some powerful wolves, but rarely did they encounter solitary wolves like the Wolf General from before. Perhaps due to their high cultivation, these wolves had slowly moved away from their pack habits.


    Just as they were flying through the sky, arge fireball shot up towards them, as if trying to knock them down. Looking down, they saw over twentyrge wolves, each standing twenty meters tall, ring up at them with red eyes.


    A twenty-meter-tall wolf was as high as a six-story building, and as they stomped the ground with their paws, it seemed like they were warning the people above toe down, or else.


    Indeed, flying so openly as two humans in the territory of wolves was too conspicuous.


    Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi exchanged a nce, sighed softly, and descended. This wasn''t the first time they had encountered this.


    Once on the ground, Bei Qingsi quickly took out the Wolf Token. The unique aura emanating from the token made the twenty-plusrge wolves itch. After circling each other a few times, they looked towards Zhong Shan.


    However, it was different from their encounter with the Wolf General before.


    The wolves sniffed around, then looked at Zhong Shan with surprise, before obediently stepping aside.


    Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi exchanged puzzled looks. They didn''t ask when facing the Wolf General earlier, eager to leave as soon as possible. As for these twenty-meter-tall wolves, they couldn''t speak to them.


    After exchanging a nce, they prepared to continue on their way. However, Zhong Shan still looked around carefully.


    This was a territory inhabited by a wolf pack. With hundreds of mountains surrounding them, all under the control of the wolves, and many powerful wolves like the twenty-meter-tall one they encountered just now, there were probably over a hundred of them here.


    Zhong Shan nced around and then flew slowly into the northeast with Bei Qingsi. The Wolf Territory was extremely dangerous. Zhong Shan was unique, and Bei Qingsi had the Wolf Token. Without the token, entering here would be truly perilous.


    Meanwhile, in the northeast of this wolf territory, a group of unfriendly individuals lurked.


    At the forefront was a man in red, dressed like a schr but exuding a sinister aura. Surrounding him were hundreds of men in red attire, slightly different from the previous ones but all wearing uniform clothing and carrying long swords at their waists. They respectfully looked at the man dressed as a schr.


    The schr''s eyes gleamed with a chilling light as he looked at the subordinate kneeling before him.


    "Sir, the remnants of the Bei family will be here in less than half an incense stick''s time," the subordinate said respectfully.


    "Good. Everyone, take note. This time, we must exterminate the remnants of the Bei family. If any of them survive, none of you will either," the schr said with a tone full of murderous intent.


    "Yes," the men immediately responded, their bodies trembling, clearly intimidated by the schr''s authority.


    Though Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi were aware of being pursued, they didn''t expect this group to be so resourceful. Even in a wolf-infested territory like this, they had managed to assemble a hundred people to intercept them, urately predicting their route and blocking their way.


    Half an incense stickter.


    Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi, unaware of the situation, continued flying towards the northeast.


    As they conversed, Bei Qingsi''s expression suddenly changed, and her flying sword twisted beneath her feet.


    "Dang!"


    Even though Bei Qingsi realized something was amiss, she was still slightlyte. A huge force suddenly collided with the flying sword, causing a loud bang. Bei Qingsi''s body was propelled forward, almost falling off.


    "Breaking Gang Arrow, quick,nd!" Bei Qingsi''s figure turned, swiftly descending towards the ground.


    Zhong Shan didn''t hesitate, following closely behind.


    At that moment...


    "Swoosh..."


    "Swoosh..."


    "Swoosh..."


    ...Six more red arrows shot out rapidly, their speed too fast, reaching Bei Qingsi in an instant. Bei Qingsi waved her hand lightly, and thick ice appeared around her, attempting to block the arrows.


    However, the power of the six arrows was too strong. Even though the ice tried to stop them, it shattered instantly, sending ice shards flying. But in doing so, the arrows were slightly diverted, weakening their force.


    Even so, Bei Qingsi barely managed to dodge, but her sword handle was struck by one of the arrows.


    "Boom!"


    Bei Qingsi narrowly escaped.


    Zhong Shan was drenched in cold sweat. The arrows were too fast; he wouldn''t have been able to avoid them. These people were specifically targeting Bei Qingsi. If one of those arrows had been aimed at him, he wouldn''t have stood a chance.


    Breaking Gang Arrow? Was this the power of the Breaking Gang Arrow? Arrows capable of breaking through even shields formed from Gang Qi?


    "Boom!"


    Bei Qingsinded in a valley and immediately concealed herself. Zhong Shan was still descending rapidly. During his descent, he suddenly saw eighty men in red leap from the surrounding mountains, dressed exactly like those who Bei Qingsi had in not long ago.


    Seeing this scene, Zhong Shan was shocked. Had these people been lying in ambush here all along?


    In an instant, Zhong Shan also plunged into the forest, feeling extremely anxious. He suddenly realized that these people''s ambush was too perfect.


    From all four directions, eighty men in red suddenly appeared. Didn''t that mean the central area of this valley was also within their calctions? Wasn''t the valley extremely dangerous? Thinking of this, Zhong Shan quickly surveyed his surroundings.


    Bei Qingsi was on guard, holding her sword cautiously. Fortunately, there were no ambushes below, as Zhong Shan had feared, but he was still extremely worried.


    "You go quickly, they''re after me," Bei Qingsi said immediately.


    "No, go back, retreat to the wolf territory we just passed through. It''ll be safer there," Zhong Shan said immediately.


    Seeing Zhong Shan not leaving, Bei Qingsi felt warmth in her heart and nodded. In the dense forest, she and Zhong Shan quickly fled towards the direction they hade from.


    With the power of the Breaking Gang Arrow, Bei Qingsi dared not fly anymore at this moment. Fleeing through the forest was the easiest way to conceal themselves.


    The two of them rushed away in panic, but the people hunting Bei Qingsi were not easy opponents.


    "Surround them!" The first person to spot Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi yelled, and the rest changed their footsteps, quickly rushing towards the valley to surround and capture Bei Qingsi.


    Demon Essence Body Technique! Second Layer!


    "Surrender," the man overseeing from above suddenly shouted. The pursuers below changed direction.


    In the distance, as Bei Qingsi, with Zhong Shan''s heightened speed, appeared not far away, they abruptly halted.


    A schrly-looking man with cold eyes seemed to have been waiting for a long time. Behind him, eighteen people heldrge red bows, each with a Breaking Gang Arrow nocked.


    "Release!"


    The schrly man suddenly yelled.


    "Swoosh..."


    A series of arrow sounds filled the air as eighteen Breaking Gang Arrows shot out rapidly. They were too fast. Seeing this scene, Zhong Shan''s heart sank. How could there be so many this time? They didn''t even exchange words, they just attacked upon meeting?


    "Boom..."


    Bei Qingsi''s white sword pierced into the ground, causing a massive wave to erupt from the earth, seemingly drawing out all the water underground and turning it into endless ice, blocking all around. In an instant, the wave and ice covered everything, enveloping Bei Qingsi and Zhong Shan inside.


    However, the Breaking Gang Arrows were too powerful. They quickly pierced through the ice, embedding themselves inside.


    From the outside, only a shadow could be seen. It appeared as though Bei Qingsi had been pierced by the eighteen Breaking Gang Arrows. But everyone knew that she was unharmed; otherwise, the ice wouldn''t have remained intact.


    Indeed, inside the ice, Bei Qingsi and Zhong Shan stood in another location, with Bei Qingsi projecting her image using light.


    "Release!"


    The schrly man shouted again.


    "Boom, boom, boom..."


    Eighteen Breaking Gang Arrows once again pierced Bei Qingsi''s body inside the ice, but she remained unscathed.


    "Stop," the schrly man ordered.


    Meanwhile, the eighty men in red also surrounded them.


    Zhong Shan felt that the strength of these eighty people was at least at the Golden Core stage. A hundred Golden Core cultivators? Such a bold move. What kind of organization was this?


    On the ground, water was still being drawn out by Bei Qingsi. Without arge river, there was only tree water and underground water. The more water Bei Qingsi drew out, the drier the surroundings became.


    But Bei Qingsi had no choice but to continue.


    The ice grew thicker and thicker, providing increasing safety for Zhong Shan. However, this safety was only temporary. As soon as they stepped out, arge number of Breaking Gang Arrows would surely be shot at them.

 Chapter 117: Hundred Days Drunk

    <h4>Chapter 117: Hundred Days Drunk</h4>


    The schr, his eyes chilling, gazed at the massive block of ice. He wasn''t in a hurry, for he had all the time in the world to wear down this ice.


    Rubbing his hands together lightly, a faint smirk graced the schr''s lips. "Found you, trapped you. Now, let''s grind away at you slowly."


    The sorrowful green threads continuously drew moisture from the surrounding earth, causing the ice wall to expand. For the sorrowful green threads, as long as there was time, they could escape. Because the ice was under their control, they could afford to take their time, expanding outward towards the valley and slowly moving themselves out from within the ice, step by step.


    Though it was a bit slow, they could definitely retreat back to the wolf territory.


    Indeed, the strategy of the sorrowful green threads seeded. Zhongshan and the sorrowful green threads were gradually moving outward from the valley, and as they moved, the ice expanded outward as well. Of course, to save ice, the ice behind them quickly melted, filling in the front to once again create an ice city, protecting Zhongshan and the sorrowful green threads in the center.


    Zhongshan frowned deeply. He felt something was amiss. The schr outside showed no signs of nervousness, no attacks on the ice city, no more orders for archers to shoot down the arrows. Instead, he just allowed Zhongshan and the sorrowful green threads to move outward. What was going on? Even if they were about to leave the valley, the schr didn''t make any attempt to stop them.


    It didn''t make sense, absolutely didn''t make sense.


    Zhongshan''s heart was filled with tension, and the sorrowful green threads'' eyes shed with seriousness. They didn''t know what went wrong, but there was a sense of impending doom pressing on their hearts.


    "Hmm?" Suddenly, the sorrowful green threads let out a soft sound of surprise, their expression bing incredibly tense.


    "Hundred Days Drunk?" The sorrowful green threads eximed.


    "Haha, exactly, it''s Hundred Days Drunk. You should feel honored to experience it," the schr finally revealed a triumphant smile.


    Upon hearing the schr''s words from outside, the sorrowful green threads'' eyes filled with despair. A sense of hopelessness rushed into their hearts after hoping for something different.


    "If you''re going to kill me, I hope you spare those around me," the sorrowful green threads immediately spoke up.


    Hearing what the sorrowful green threads said, Zhongshan''s heart turned cold. Did the sorrowful green threads justpromise? Hundred Days Drunk? What was that? What was going on?


    "My style is to eradicate thoroughly, even if it''s just a weed," the schr''s tone was cold.


    Clearly, he wasn''t nning to spare Zhongshan either. Kill, kill, kill!


    Watching the wolf territory, which was just a short distance away, the sorrowful green threads'' eyes shed with sorrow.


    "What''s Hundred Days Drunk?" Zhongshan couldn''t hold back anymore and immediately asked the sorrowful green threads.


    "Haven''t you smelled the fragrance around? That''s Hundred Days Drunk. Take a whiff, and you''ll sleep for a hundred days," the sorrowful green threads said with a bleak expression.


    "Fragrance?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows. He didn''t smell anything.


    A hint of doubt shed in his eyes. What''s going on? Why didn''t I smell it? But then Zhongshan suddenly noticed something unusual at his brow center, where the Vermilion Phoenix me was flickering with a slight anomaly.


    Vermilion Phoenix me? Vermilion Phoenix Mist? Could it be that it''s blocking my senses? Is it immune to Hundred Days Drunk?


    If Hundred Days Drunk, as the sorrowful green threads said, was true, then wouldn''t the sorrowful green threads fall asleep immediately? Once they fell asleep, what use was there? It''s a sure death.


    What to do? Zhongshan touched his storage bracelet, but the strongest things inside were only the two jade talismans, the Ice Phoenix Jade Talisman and the Fire Phoenix Jade Talisman that Tian Xingzi had given him.


    However, these two jade talismans could only deal with early Golden Core stage cultivators at most. How could they possibly handle all hundred Golden Core stage experts here? Zhongshan narrowed his eyes. At this moment, Zhongshan was exceptionally calm. He reached out and took out the two jade talismans, no matter what, he had to take them out first.


    "Hmph, let''s see how long you can hold on," the schr said coldly.


    Sure enough, after just a moment, the sorrowful green threads beside Zhongshan suddenly swayed, as if intoxicated, their steps bing unsteady.


    Damn it!


    As the sorrowful green threads became slightly intoxicated, the movement of the entire ice city seemed to slow down significantly, and the thick ice city also seemed to thin out slightly.


    Outside, the schr smirked slightly.


    "Archers, get ready," the schr said coldly.


    "Click, click, click..." A row of archers quickly took aim with their breaker arrows, ready to shoot at the ice city.


    The massive ice city, in the midst of the sorrowful green threads'' sudden intoxication, became alternately thick and thin.


    The sorrowful green threads'' projection, which was originally one, suddenly turned into dozens of projections in different directions, making it increasingly difficult for the sorrowful green threads to control.


    Zhongshan took a deep breath, feeling extremely nervous. What to do? What to do? Slowly, he looked at the two jade talismans in his hand. This was the only way.


    "Fire~!" The schr suddenly shouted.


    "Huff, huff, huff..." Eighteen breaker arrows instantly pierced through the suddenly weakened ice wall, dividing into eighteen parts and shooting towards where the sorrowful green threads'' eighteen projections were.


    Swish! Arge number of breaker arrows prated the interior, and one of them, by sheer coincidence, struck right in front of the sorrowful green threads. Zhongshan wanted to shout, but it was toote, too fast. It was already in front of the sorrowful green threads in an instant.


    Perhaps sensing danger, the sorrowful green threads were instantly awakened, their eyes widening in shock. A thickyer of barrier suddenly formed around their body.


    "Crack~!" With just a slight resistance, the breaker arrow broke through the sorrowful green threads'' barrier and pierced into the area above their left chest, bursting out from their back, blood gushing out.


    The sorrowful green threads'' eyes widened in shock, as if they suddenly sobered up a lot. The ice walls around them thickened again significantly. A strong sense of despair shed in their eyes.


    It''s over. It''s over.


    With a breaker arrow piercing through them, they couldn''t hold on for much longer. They were as good as dead.


    "Zhongshan, I''m sorry," the sorrowful green threads looked at Zhongshan with some regret.


    Blood stained the sorrowful green threads'' white clothes. Using their sword as support, their eyes, which had just regained some rity, once again became exhausted. Hundred Days Drunk? To sleep for a hundred days just from the fragrance?


    Zhongshan finally understood the perversion of this Hundred Days Drunk. The sorrowful green threads were seriously injured. Under such serious injuries, they couldn''t resist the urge to sleep? And the sorrowful green threads were in thete Golden Core stage, yet they could still be intoxicated like this.


    Zhongshan stepped forward and hugged the sorrowful green threads.


    "Do your best to blow up the ice city. st it in all directions," Zhongshan shouted to the sorrowful green threads.


    Being hugged by Zhongshan, the sorrowful green threads didn''t resist at all, just a wry smile.


    It''s over! It''s really over. Perhaps in the next moment, they would fall asleep, doomed. Just dragging Zhongshan down.


    After Zhongshan finished his orders, the sorrowful green threads nodded, determined to fulfill Zhongshan''sst wish, no matter what.


    The breaker arrow was still lodged in the sorrowful green threads'' chest. They raised a white long sword with one hand, their eyes ring. With a swing of the sword, the entire ice city exploded, sting in all directions, sending numerous ice spikes like sharp arrows directly at the red-clothed figures.


    But the sorrowful green threads knew it was futile. They were severely injured and intoxicated; they definitely couldn''t harm them. Once they caught their breath, Zhongshan would still die. Zhongshan was only at the Foundation Establishment stage after all.


    "Boom~" The ice city exploded in all directions, with thick ice shooting towards the schr. The schr didn''t seem annoyed; instead, he revealed a hint of victorious smile.


    With the explosion of the ice city, everyone dodged, including the eighteen archers who quickly evaded. After all, although the sorrowful green threads were intoxicated by the Hundred Days Drunk, their strength was still incredibly terrifying. If they didn''t dodge, they would undoubtedly suffer serious injuries. Those who had pursued the sorrowful green threads before had died like this.


    In the instant everyone jumped away, two phoenix cries suddenly sounded. The jade talismans, Zhongshan''s jade talismans, were finally crushed.


    However, these two jade talismans didn''t attack anyone. Instead, they flew into the air and collided with each other in midair as the ice city exploded.


    "Boom~" The Ice Phoenix and Fire Phoenix perished together?


    Extreme heat and extreme cold collided, producing a vast burst of strong light, an overwhelmingly powerful light.


    The strength of the light was so strong that it seemed like a giant sun appeared in front of everyone. Even though everyone was at the Golden Core stage, at this moment, they were all temporarily blinded, their eyes filled with brightness, unable to see anything.


    "Not good!" The schr suddenly shouted angrily.


    With a flip of his hand, he wielded a flying sword, regardless of whether there was anything at the mouth of the valley. With a swing of his sword, a twenty-foot sword qi surged forth and shed forward.


    "Ah~" A scream followed the schr''s sword swing.


    And in just that moment, everyone''s vision returned, and they could see the surrounding scenery again.


    The schr''s sword struck a red-clothed figure, severing their arm. However, Zhongshan and the sorrowful green threads had suddenly disappeared without a trace. They were gone, just like that. Had they escaped?


    The schr looked at the spot where Zhongshan and the sorrowful green threads had disappeared, his anger surging. He didn''t even care about his subordinate whose arm he had just cut off; instead, his eyes were chilling as he looked towards the valley.


    "Sir, do we go in?" one subordinate asked fearfully.


    Staring, the schr took a deep breath. "Encircle. Surround this area for me. Wait for them toe out."


    Obviously, the schr didn''t dare to enter this area.


    "Sir, let''s leave quickly. There might be wolvesing soon after the loud noise just now," another subordinate urged.


    "Let''s go." The schr didn''t hesitate, turning around and leading everyone away. Sure enough, not long after they left, various wolves began to gather to see what had happened.


    Zhongshan ran away. Under the intense light, Zhongshan quickly deviated from the route he had nned beforehand and hurriedly left. He headed towards the wolf territory, entered it, and evaded the red-clothed figures. However, the sorrowful green threads werepletely unconscious, with the breaker arrow still lodged in their chest, blood already staining half of their body. Zhongshan urgently needed to find a secluded and safe ce.

 Chapter 118: Healing

    <h4>Chapter 118: Healing</h4>


    As Zhongshan ran with Sorrowful Green Threads in his arms, after some time, he finally found a perfect ce��a secluded valley with a smallke and even a dry cave. The interior was a bit rugged, but that didn''t matter as long as they had a ce to take shelter.


    Gentlyying Sorrowful Green Threads down, Zhongshan took a deep breath as he examined the breaker arrow lodged in her chest.


    The breaker arrow resembled an ordinary bamboo arrow, but it was made of a very special material and engraved with numerous strange runes. It pierced directly through Sorrowful Green Threads'' left chest, with the tip emerging from her back, staining her body with blood, which continued to flow.


    With Sorrowful Green Threads intoxicated by the Hundred Days Drunk and currently unconscious, it would be a hundred days before she woke up. Zhongshan took another deep breath; now wasn''t the time to worry about modesty��Sorrowful Green Threads'' life was the most important.


    "Hiss~" Zhongshan quickly tore open Sorrowful Green Threads'' shirt and undershirt without reservation, exposing her blood-soaked ** upper body.


    On her delicate skiny a lot of blood, giving her an eerie beauty. Even though Zhongshan had seen it before, his expression still froze.


    Furrowing his brows, Zhongshan quickly shifted his gaze to the area around Sorrowful Green Threads'' left chest.


    Blood flowed from the front and back of her chest, staining the peaks with a crimson hue. Zhongshan didn''t dare to immediately pull out the long arrow but instead ced his hand around the arrow.


    His hand touched the damp skin, and the slight sticity didn''t disturb Zhongshan''s thoughts. Closing his eyes, Zhongshan gently probed with his true essence to see the effects of the arrow.


    However, even though Sorrowful Green Threads was intoxicated, her body instinctively resisted. Whenever Zhongshan''s true essence entered, it was immediately bounced back. After several attempts, Zhongshan finally managed to explore around the skin at both ends of the arrow to see where he could probe.


    During this process, Zhongshan''s true essence was repeatedly resisted by Sorrowful Green Threads'' true essence. At one point, Zhongshan''s true essence entered one of Sorrowful Green Threads'' acupuncture points, resulting in an intense reaction, with a sword qi shooting out, leaving Zhongshan drenched in cold sweat.


    Nevertheless, he finally managed to explore it thoroughly.


    After exploring, Zhongshan took a deep breath. It was close; too close. The long arrow had been shot right next to the heart, and by sheer luck, it hadn''t severed any blood vessels or meridians, only tearing some muscles and mucous membranes.


    Repositioning Sorrowful Green Threads'' body, Zhongshan pinched the middle section of the breaker arrow in her chest.


    With all his strength, he tried to break it, but the arrow didn''t snap.


    Furrowing his brows, Zhongshan wondered how to remove it. Eventually, he retrieved Sorrowful Green Threads'' white sword from the side. Infusing it with true essence, although it was his first time using it, the sword must have been of high quality. Zhongshan began cutting at the tail end of the arrow.


    "Crack~" The arrow in Sorrowful Green Threads'' chest snapped into two pieces, but there were still many pieces left inside her.


    Quickly retrieving some hemostatic agents from his storage bracelet, Zhongshan used the blood oozing out to wet the remaining arrowheads protruding from her chest.


    Looking at the sleeping Sorrowful Green Threads, Zhongshan gently said, "I''m going to pull out the arrow now. Bear with the pain."


    Of course, Sorrowful Green Threads was fast asleep; how could she hear him?


    With one hand supporting Sorrowful Green Threads and the other grabbing the arrowhead on her back, Zhongshan opened his eyes wide and pulled hard.


    "Crack~" With a gush of blood, the arrowhead embedded in Sorrowful Green Threads'' body waspletely pulled out.


    "Dang-ng."


    Zhongshan casually threw away the arrowhead. Quickly sprinkling some strong liquor, he then used a piece of white cloth to plug the wound. Blood continued to flow, quickly staining the white cloth red.


    Leaning against the cave wall, Zhongshan wrapped his left arm around Sorrowful Green Threads'' body. He plugged the blood hole in her back with a piece of white cloth and covered the wound on her left chest with his hand.


    Looking at the extremely pale and weak Sorrowful Green Threads, Zhongshan''s right hand, now free, made a gesture.


    A small bottle suddenly appeared in Zhongshan''s hand. It was the Revival Pill, given to him by Sorrowful Green Threads when they first met. She had thrown it to him after injuring him with a palm strike.


    Looking at the pill, a strange smile appeared on Zhongshan''s face. "Revival Pill, I''ve always been reluctant to use it. I didn''t expect to use it on you after going in circles."


    After saying that, Zhongshan removed the bottle cap with one hand and poured out the white Revival Pill.


    Having recently browsed various rare treasures and spiritual medicines at the Treasures Pavilion, he naturally knew how to use it.


    With a light pinch, the Revival Pill suddenly split into three portions.


    Taking thergest portion, Zhongshan gently brought it to Sorrowful Green Threads'' mouth. However, her mouth was tightly shut, so Zhongshan could only gently push half of the pill into her mouth. Worried that she might hold it in her mouth without swallowing, he used his index finger to push the pill into her moist mouth.


    After a few pushes to ensure that the pill had been swallowed, Zhongshan withdrew his finger from her soft mouth.


    Feeling the strange sensation just now, Zhongshan shook his head to clear his mind. Taking a deep breath, he looked at the wound on Sorrowful Green Threads'' chest.


    Releasing his left hand, Zhongshan took out the second portion of the crushed pill, sprinkled it slowly over the wound, and the bleeding slowed down significantly.


    Following the same procedure, Zhongshan also sprinkled thest portion of the crushed pill on Sorrowful Green Threads'' back. At this point, the blood finally stopped flowing.


    "Sigh~" With the bleeding stopped, Zhongshan heaved a sigh of relief. However, Sorrowful Green Threads was still in a critical condition, and she would remain in a hundred days of deep sleep, posing a difficult problem.


    For now, they couldn''t leave. Zhongshan was certain that the group of Red-Clothed people must be lurking outside the wolf area. They could only temporarily remain trapped in the valley.


    Looking at the blood-covered Sorrowful Green Threads in his arms, Zhongshan gently leaned her against the clothes he hadid out earlier, propping her up against the cave wall.


    As for himself, Zhongshan got up to tidy up the surroundings. He cleared out a t area, spread out a nket, and ced spiritual stones around for Sorrowful Green Threads to instinctively absorb enough spiritual energy while in her deep sleep.


    After finishing this, Zhongshan looked at Sorrowful Green Threads again. Covered in blood, he gentlyid her on the bed he had just made, allowing her to lie down and continue her deep slumber.


    Next, it was a waiting game for Bei Qingsi''s awakening.


    During the day, Zhongshan searched the valley for herbs like millennium ginseng, slicing them into pieces and cing them in Bei Qingsi''s mouth to let her suck on them. At night, he would rece them with fresh ones, asionally feeding her a little clear water. This ensured that Bei Qingsi could absorb enough moisture and nutrients.


    While meticulously caring for Bei Qingsi, Zhongshan continued his cultivation. The next stage of cultivation was to open up the meridians.


    The number of meridians was three hundred and sixty-one. That meant each person had three hundred and sixty-one meridians, in addition to the Dantian that had already been opened, there were another three hundred and sixty simr ces to store true essence, which needed to be surging before one could reach the Golden Core stage.


    Currently at the sixth level of Innate, ascending one level required opening ny meridians each time.


    Having had Tianxingzi inspect his body, Zhongshan''s meridian breakthroughs were much quicker. Due to the different sequences, the difficulty of breakthroughs varied. Especially for someone with extremely poor aptitude like Zhongshan, the sequence needed to be as smooth as possible.


    Each day''s meridian breakthroughs didn''t feel tedious for Zhongshan. By the third day of cultivation in the valley, when Zhongshan was about to cut a slice of ginseng to rece the one in Bei Qingsi''s mouth, he suddenly noticed that the clothes on Bei Qingsi''s left chest were slightly damp.


    What''s going on? Zhongshan quickly untied her clothes, revealing the wound.


    Although the wound was no longer bleeding, it was oozing pus.


    This was bad. Zhongshan knew something was wrong. He quickly used his true essence to investigate. Why wasn''t Bei Qingsi recovering quickly as expected, given her constitution?


    After several probes, Zhongshan narrowed his eyes and furrowed his brows.


    At the site of the wound, there was a strange energy that seemed to be constantly preventing the wound from healing.


    Zhongshan carefully sensed it again, then took out the ''Breaking Gang Arrow''. When his true essence entered it, he discovered that the strange energy at Bei Qingsi''s wound was from the Breaking Gang Arrow.


    Perhaps when Bei Qingsi woke up, she could expel it in an instant, but the problem was she wouldn''t wake up for another ny-something days.


    Zhongshan attempted to expel it, but Bei Qingsi''s true essence resisted his own. Whenever his true essence entered Bei Qingsi''s body, it was forced out by her true essence. Zhongshan''s palm pressed against Bei Qingsi''s chest, and after two hours of true essence exchange, only a trace of the residual aura of the Breaking Gang Arrow was expelled.


    Zhongshan was sweating profusely and had to temporarily give up. He gently wiped away the pus,id Bei Qingsi down, and went out to continue cultivation. The next day, he resumed the true essence confrontation with Bei Qingsi, expelling the residual aura of the Breaking Gang Arrow.


    Although each time left Zhongshan utterly exhausted, after each rest, his true essence grew significantly. Moreover, Zhongshan was very careful when expelling the pus from Bei Qingsi, fearing that he might hurt her. Thus, he practiced maximum control over his true essence.


    After a month of true essence confrontation, Zhongshan unexpectedly opened thirty meridians at once. Coupled with the ten he had opened at the Kaiyang Sect, he had now opened forty meridians.


    After a month of recuperation, Bei Qingsi''s wound gradually healed, returning to its former beautiful and smooth state, with not even a hint of scar left on her chest. She was still as charming and soft as ever.


    Zhongshan believed that today''s final expulsion would surely rid Bei Qingsi of thest traces of the Breaking Gang Arrow.


    After washing his hands by theke, Zhongshan slowly walked towards the cave. Just as he stepped into the entrance, Bei Qingsi, who had been in aa, fluttered her eyshes ever so slightly.

 Chapter 119: The Transformation of Qing Si

    <h4>Chapter 119: The Transformation of Qing Si</h4>


    As Zhongshan stepped into the cave, the dim environment revealed Bei Qingsi still lying there.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan approached Bei Qingsi and slowly helped her sit up, then sat behind her, letting her lean against his chest, and gently unbuttoned her cor.


    After undoing four buttons, he gently lifted her left chest, revealing a plump, resilient mound that trembled ever so slightly in the air. Even though Zhongshan faced it every day, he still felt a momentary daze at its perfection.


    Taking a deep breath, he forcefully suppressed the restlessness in his heart. Zhongshan gently pressed his right palm against it, supporting it with his other hand, closed his eyes, cleared his mind, but the softness in his hand seemed to continuously unsettle his heart.


    Zhongshan''s will was firm. After calming down slightly, he began to release his true essence to confront Bei Qingsi''s true essence within her body.


    However, for some reason today, Bei Qingsi''s true essence seemed much more active. When Zhongshan''s true essence probed in, Bei Qingsi''s true essence resisted quickly. Under tremendous force, Zhongshan''s palm was almost bounced off, but he held onto Bei Qingsi, and with a slight tremor in his palm, continued to attack the residual aura.


    After a fierce resistance earlier, this time Bei Qingsi''s true essence seemed to suddenly be much gentler. Zhongshan didn''t understand why, but it was better this way. His true essence quickly prated, and finally, after a while,pletely expelled the remnants of the Breaking Gang Arrow.


    "Phew~"


    Zhongshan took a deep breath. Now he could rest assured. He gently withdrew his palm from Bei Qingsi''s left chest, feeling reluctant as it trembled slightly after his hand left.


    However, after some thought, Zhongshan frowned slightly, and once again pressed his hand against her, then carefully felt from her left armpit to her back, carefully checking the previous wound. Feeling it smooth and silky, Zhongshan finally withdrew his hand with relief.


    He gently buttoned Bei Qingsi''s buttons and slowlyid her down.


    The interior of the cave was very dark, and Zhongshan didn''t notice that Bei Qingsi''s body had begun to emanate a faint pink color during the expulsion of the Breaking Gang Arrow residue, and her temperature had slightly risenpared to usual.


    In fact, before Zhongshan entered the cave, Bei Qingsi miraculously woke up.


    Perhaps due to her bloodline, instead of sleeping for over a hundred days as expected, Bei Qingsipletely resisted it in just a month.


    Upon waking up, Bei Qingsi quickly recalled everything that happened before, the moment when the Ice City exploded, and then she fell into a deep slumber.


    Did she die? When she was hit by the Breaking Gang Arrow, death seemed certain. With a hundred Golden Core experts waiting, how could Zhongshan, a mere Innate expert, possibly escape?


    However, Bei Qingsi felt that she should be alive. Alive? Am I still alive? I didn''t die? Bei Qingsi hoped she hadn''t died, but she was also afraid that she had already died. Thus, there was a faint sense of apprehension in her heart, and she dared not open her eyes, afraid that if she did, she would find herself dead and feel incredibly disappointed.


    So Bei Qingsi tried to gently probe with her divine sense. Her divine sense was usable.


    After probing her own body, she suddenly felt a sense of disbelief. The arrow was gone, her chest had returned to normal, not even a trace of injury remained. It was as smooth and delicate as before. Could it be that everything before was just a dream, and she wasn''t injured at all? No, everything was real, someone must have saved her. But who?


    But in the next moment, Bei Qingsi discovered another shocking thing: all her clothes had been changed, every single piece, even the most intimate undergarments, were no longer hers, but instead, a set of men''s clothes, slightly oversized.


    At that moment, Zhongshan walked into the cave from outside.


    Bei Qingsi''s divine sense gently probed, and she realized it was Zhongshan. Zhongshan? He didn''t die either? What''s going on? Was he also saved? But then, Bei Qingsi suddenly felt her head spinning, because she realized that the clothes she was wearing were so familiar. Zhongshan''s clothes?


    Then who changed my clothes?


    A possibility crossed Bei Qingsi''s mind, but she was reluctant to believe it.


    While Bei Qingsi''s head was spinning, Zhongshan slowly helped her up and began to unbutton her clothes despite her tensed body.


    At this moment, Bei Qingsi instinctively wanted to push Zhongshan away, but considering the clothes she was wearing now, she restrained herself. There was a strange feeling in her heart.


    What was Zhongshan nning to do? Before Bei Qingsi''s negative thoughts could take hold, Zhongshan''s warm palm was already touching her left chest.


    A heat surged through Bei Qingsi''s chest. Unexpectedly, before she could react, her sacred ce was breached. Just as Bei Qingsi was about to open her eyes with anger.


    Strangely, Zhongshan''s palm emitted true essence, which entered her body. What was he trying to do? Bei Qingsi frowned, instinctively resisting, but in that moment of resistance, she sensed something unusual in her body��a trace of the Breaking Gang Arrow''s aura.


    Was Zhongshan expelling the residue of the Breaking Gang Arrow?


    Sure enough, as Bei Qingsi adjusted her true essence, Zhongshanpletely expelled the residual aura of the Breaking Gang Arrow.


    At this moment, Bei Qingsi felt extremely conflicted. She felt like crying. Was Zhongshan her benefactor? Why did she feel vited after he examined her body like this? But at the same time, Zhongshan was helping her, leaving her nowhere to vent her anger. Why was it like this?


    Zhongshan slowly released his palm from Bei Qingsi''s sacred ce, and she felt extremely confused. But at that moment, Zhongshan ced his hand back on her.


    As Bei Qingsi''s confused emotions surged, what was happening? The Breaking Gang Arrow''s residue had already been expelled, what else did Zhongshan want to do? Just as Bei Qingsi began to doubt Zhongshan, his palm touched her skin, bypassing her armpit and reaching her back.


    Bei Qingsi''s body tensed, unsure of Zhongshan''s intentions. It wasn''t until Zhongshan''s fingers stopped at the site of the previous Breaking Gang Arrow wound on her back that Bei Qingsi understood. Zhongshan was checking the wound. Her suspicions instantly turned into a strange feeling.


    As Zhongshan''s fingers gently rubbed the wound, carefully feeling it, Bei Qingsi''s body rxedpletely, as if all her bones had suddenly disappeared, and her whole body became slightly warm.


    Zhongshan withdrew his hand, and in Bei Qingsi''s heart, she would never forget Zhongshan''s gentle touch just now.


    Until Zhongshan buttoned all of Bei Qingsi''s clothes, her mind was in a daze. At that moment, Bei Qingsi dared not open her eyes, her heart in turmoil, letting Zhongshany her body down.


    Bei Qingsi had thought everything was fine, but Zhongshan sat beside her and didn''t leave, instead, he gently cut a slice of ginseng.


    Then, he reached out and gently ced it at Bei Qingsi''s lips, gently prying open her soft, resilient lips.


    Bei Qingsi''s face flushed red, but Zhongshan seemed not to notice, perhaps because the cave was too dark, perhaps Zhongshan was ustomed to it and didn''t pay attention anymore, or perhaps Bei Qingsi''s face had be slightly rosy due to her recent convalescence.


    As Bei Qingsi blushed, Zhongshan''s finger unexpectedly entered her mouth, and the slightly salty tip lightly touched her soft tongue, causing Bei Qingsi''s entire body to tense up. Her lips stiffened a bit, but Bei Qingsi tried hard to control herself, making it seem extremely natural.


    Slowly, Zhongshan withdrew the nutrient-soaked ginseng slice from Bei Qingsi''s tongue.


    However, today, Bei Qingsi''s mouth felt very unnatural, somewhat tense yet afraid to be so, and her saliva moistened Zhongshan''s fingers and lips. As Zhongshan withdrew his finger, it was pressed tightly against her mouth without any gaps. Until the moment his finger was pulled out.


    "Pop~~~"


    A crisp popping sound suddenly came from Bei Qingsi''s mouth.


    This sound made Bei Qingsi''s head spin again. What was that? Why did it happen like this?


    "Huh?~~~"


    Zhongshan was a bit surprised, and this sound, heard by Bei Qingsi, brought about extreme embarrassment. At this moment, Bei Qingsi dared not open her eyes anymore. Her redness extended to her ears.


    At this moment, Zhongshan used a very clean damp cloth, dipped in freshly boiled nutrient soup, and brought it to Bei Qingsi''s mouth, squeezing it into her mouth drop by drop.


    Zhongshan was very gentle, afraid that Bei Qingsi might choke if he poured it too quickly. As Bei Qingsi felt each drop of soup squeezed out by Zhongshan onto her tongue, she suddenly felt like crying.


    The previous embarrassment and ambiguity were all reced by a warm feeling, a faint warmth, a warmth that she wanted to cherish forever. For how many years? For how many years? Bei Qingsi once again felt warmth, a warmth that made her reluctant to part with it.


    The redness on Bei Qingsi''s face gradually faded as Zhongshan once again ced a ginseng slice into her mouth, and Bei Qingsi didn''t even seem to notice.


    Until Zhongshan finished everything, gentlyid Bei Qingsi down, covered her with a thin nket, and slowly walked out, Bei Qingsi''s closed eyes couldn''t help but shed two tears.


    Zhongshan went out, caught a fish in theke, cleaned it, and prepared to cook it for dinner in his own pot. After everything was done and the fish was put into the pot to simmer over a small fire, Zhongshan slowly sat down, closed his eyes, and began to meditate.


    Zhongshan''s cultivation was very diligent. Even in the short time it took to stew the fish, he didn''t want to waste any time because he always believed that diligence could make up for deficiencies. So, he didn''t dare to ck off even for a moment.


    After Zhongshan had been gone for about an hour, Bei Qingsi gently opened her eyes. Looking at the stctites hanging from the ceiling of the cave, her beautiful eyes blinked a few times, pondering who knows what.

 Chapter 120 - 120 Descendants of Immortals

    <h4>Chapter 120: Descendants of Immortals</h4>


    Bei Qingsiy on the nket, gently stroking the other nket Zhongshan had covered her with, a softness flickering in her eyes. However, she didn''t get up, instead lying there, constantly recalling that faint warmth, as if engaged in a battle between heaven and man.


    By evening, Bei Qingsi noticed that Zhongshan hadn''t returned to the stone cave to rest. It was only around midnight when he entered the cave to check if Bei Qingsi was alright before immediately going out to sit outside and cultivate.


    Sensing from outside, Bei Qingsi licked the ginseng slice in her mouth, her eyes filled with a sense of gratitude, and a rare smile appeared at the corner of her mouth.


    Bei Qingsi knew that Zhongshan wasn''t avoiding suspicion. After all, Zhongshan had already seen and touched her naked body. Would he still care about such formalities? Zhongshan didn''t enter the cave to cultivate because he was afraid of disturbing her during his practice. The sounds during practice and after finishing might disturb her, and the surging true essence during breakthroughs might harm Bei Qingsi.


    Feeling this faint warmth, Bei Qingsi had the thought of just sleeping like this forever. However, this was obviously impractical. After lying for a long time, Bei Qingsi gently got up in the middle of the night.


    After getting up, Bei Qingsi looked at the clothes Zhongshan had put on her, blushed slightly, and changed into her own clothes, from inside to outside, putting on clean clothes again.


    Carefully folding Zhongshan''s clothes, which had apanied her for a month, Bei Qingsi''s eyes flickered with a hint of reluctance. After looking at them for a while, she finally bit her lip, turned her hand, and stored the clothes in her storage bracelet.


    Then Bei Qingsi closed her eyes and meditated for a while. There were plenty of spirit stones around her, but Bei Qingsi didn''t care why Zhongshan had so many spirit stones because none of it mattered.


    When it was dawn, Zhongshan woke up from his meditation, went to the smallke to wash his face with clear water, put the fish cleanedst night into the pot, added seasoning, and began cooking over a small fire, preparing to enter the cave afterwards.


    As Zhongshan turned around, he found that Bei Qingsi was already standing at the entrance of the cave.


    "Qingsi, you''re awake?" Zhongshan''s eyes shed with surprise and joy.


    "Yeah," Bei Qingsi nodded, a hint of tenderness shing in her eyes.


    "When did you wake up?" Zhongshan immediately asked.


    Of course, Zhongshan''s question was just out of concern, but to Bei Qingsi''s ears, her face turned red. When did she wake up? Could she say it?


    "Just woke up. Thank you," Bei Qingsi immediately said.


    "Hehe, it''s good that you woke up. But that hundred-day drunkenness wasn''t exaggerated. You woke up after only a month," Zhongshan shook his head and smiled.


    "No, the hundred-day drunkenness wasn''t exaggerated. Ordinary people would be drunk for over a hundred days. I woke up early because of the inheritance of bloodline. Why are you okay?" Bei Qingsi asked in confusion.


    "Huh? Come here, sit first," Zhongshan immediately pointed to a nearby stone.


    Zhongshan''s situation was very special, as if it was the Red Phoenix me in the Red Phoenix Scripture, but he wasn''t very sure, so it wasn''t convenient to say it now.


    "Okay." Bei Qingsi nodded gently and walked over slowly.


    In front of Zhongshan was a big pot for cooking fish, and beside it was a long stone. Bei Qingsi sat on it, and Zhongshan sat naturally beside her, holding a branch in his hand. He stirred the fire under the pot while chatting with Bei Qingsi.


    "Bloodline inheritance, do most people have bloodline inheritance? They just haven''t activated it?" Zhongshan asked immediately.


    Because from Bei Qingsi''s bloodline inheritance, Zhongshan saw powerful strength. If everyone had bloodline inheritance, wouldn''t it be great? If he could find a way to activate it, wouldn''t it be even better?


    "Actually, people with the ability of bloodline inheritance are very rare. I''m quite special, or rather, my family, the Bei n, is quite special," Bei Qingsi said, shaking her head as she watched the sparks under the pot.


    "Why? Why is it only a few families like yours that have this bloodline inheritance? How did this bloodline inheritancee about? What kind of people have it?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows.


    "I have the bloodline inheritance because my ancestors once had an immortal," Bei Qingsi said softly.


    "Immortal?" Zhongshan widened his eyes in surprise.


    Before entering the Kaiyang Sect, he thought there were many immortals, but after joining the Kaiyang Sect, he realized how rare it was to be an immortal. Even in history, bing an immortal was extremely rare. So it was a great surprise to suddenly hear about a descendant of an immortal. However, Zhongshan believed Bei Qingsi. Since Bei Qingsi said she was a descendant of an immortal, it must be true.


    "So you mean, only the descendants of immortals have the possibility of having the ability of bloodline inheritance?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows.


    "Yeah, that''s what I know. But not all descendants of immortals necessarily have this ability because it needs to be activated. My Bei family hasn''t activated it for many generations until my generation," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    "Alright," Zhongshan nodded, sighing deeply. He knew he definitely didn''t have that opportunity, so he should just focus on reality.


    "What happened that day? How did we get saved?" Bei Qingsi looked at Zhongshan and asked.


    "Oh, that day, I..." Zhongshan recounted the events of that day to Bei Qingsi.


    Zhongshan spoke very inly, but Bei Qingsi still sensed extreme danger from it. At the same time, she also admired Zhongshan a lot. He was only at the innate stage, yet he managed to escape from the hands of a hundred Nascent Soul experts. He even brought her, a burden, along with him.


    "Thank you!" Bei Qingsi could only express her gratitude in the end.


    "It''s all in the past. Um, my fish soup is ready. Why don''t you try it? Although you''re at the Nascent Soul stage and can absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth as food, this is freshly made. Give it a try," Zhongshan lifted the lid of the pot and said.


    "Okay," Bei Qingsi nodded without any hesitation.


    Zhongshan scooped a bowl of fish soup and divided the fish into three parts. He scooped all the meat from the belly of the fish into the bowl and gently handed it to Bei Qingsi, then took out a pair of chopsticks.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s casual demeanor, Bei Qingsi felt a surge of warmth again. She took the bowl with both hands, and tears of gratitude welled up in her eyes. However, before the tears could form droplets, Bei Qingsi used her true essence to dry them up.


    "Eat," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Okay," Bei Qingsi nodded gently and started to drink the soup, using chopsticks to pick up the boneless fish meat and chew slowly.


    Zhongshan watched as Bei Qingsi, who was already like a perfect being, ate. She was even more beautiful and gentle when eating.


    "Why aren''t you eating?" Bei Qingsi suddenly said.


    "Uh, alright!" Zhongshan was slightly surprised but scooped himself a bowl and started eating.


    Zhongshan ate rtively quickly. In a moment, he finished one bowl and then another.


    After putting down his bowl and chopsticks, Zhongshan looked at Bei Qingsi with a furrowed brow. Bei Qingsi had also finished her meal. Seeing Zhongshan''s expression, she asked with a slight confusion, "What''s wrong?"


    "Qingsi, can you not seek revenge? At least, not for the time being?" Zhongshan thought for a moment and decided to speak up.


    After all, the red-clothed people they encountered before were too terrifying and well-trained. This was just long-range pursuit. How powerful would the real assassins be? If Bei Qingsi went, wouldn''t it be courting death?


    As if sensing Zhongshan''s concern, Bei Qingsi felt warm in her heart and smiled gently. "Don''t worry, you don''t need to be concerned. I must go back for revenge as soon as possible. Besides, when the timees, it won''t be just me, there will be..."


    She paused halfway through.


    "There will be who?" Zhongshan asked in confusion.


    Looking at Zhongshan, Bei Qingsi hesitated for a moment, then nodded reluctantly. "Well, then, please be careful," Zhongshan said, sensing Bei Qingsi''s dilemma.


    Zhongshan knew he couldn''t persuade her, so he just sighed softly. However, when Bei Qingsi saw Zhongshan sigh, she felt a pang in her heart. She wanted to tell Zhongshan who else would be going with her, but it seemed like she was bound by some kind of promise not to mention it. She felt a sense of helplessness and guilt.


    Watching Zhongshan put away the bowls and chopsticks, Bei Qingsi bit her lip and sighed softly. But as Zhongshan finished tidying up, Bei Qingsi suddenly said, "Should we wait for a while before going out again?"


    Looking at Bei Qingsi, Zhongshan nodded. "Those people will definitely be watching us from all directions. Let''s wait for at least a hundred days, no, let''s wait two hundred days. We''ll wait until they lose patience before we leave."


    Seeing Zhongshan''s determination, a glint of brightness shed in Bei Qingsi''s eyes as she nodded.


    "Oh, by the way, I found something for you these days. It''s just right for you to try," Zhongshan suddenly said.


    "What is it?" Bei Qingsi asked, puzzled.


    Zhongshan smiled faintly. "Come, let''s go to thekeside. I''ll do it, and you watch. Remember every step I take."


    "Huh?" Bei Qingsi was slightly puzzled but still got up and followed Zhongshan all the way to thekeside.


    After asking Bei Qingsi to sit down, Zhongshan gently took out some nts and some peculiar natural materials. These materials didn''t have much spiritual power, and they were diverse and chaotic. Bei Qingsi didn''t know what Zhongshan was going to do with these materials.


    "Take a good look at these materials. Although they seem ordinary, they can be very effective at times. Do you recognize these nts?" Zhongshan asked Bei Qingsi.


    Bei Qingsi looked at them and nodded. "I know most of them. The rest I haven''t seen before, but I''ve seen simr ones."


    "Good," Zhongshan nodded with a smile.


    "Watch carefully," Zhongshan said.


    Then, Zhongshan squeezed out some juice from the nts, adjusted them with different materials, and mixed them slowly, blending them into a slightly viscous ck liquid.


    Furrowing her brows at the bowl of ck liquid, Bei Qingsi couldn''t understand what Zhongshan was doing.


    At this moment, Zhongshan took out a thin sheet like a bedsheet and walked slowly to Bei Qingsi. "Don''t move," Zhongshan said, wrapping Bei Qingsi with the sheet and tying a knot around her neck, enveloping her entire body except for her head.


    Bei Qingsi didn''t move, but she was very puzzled about what Zhongshan was doing.


    "What''s this for?" Bei Qingsi asked softly.


    With a slight smile, Zhongshan took out several different brushes. "I''m going to teach you how to dye your hair."

 Chapter 121: Threads of Emotion

    <h4>Chapter 121: Threads of Emotion</h4>


    "Dye my hair?" Bei Qingsi''s expression froze momentarily, her eyes filled with astonishment.


    Zhong Shan did not offer much exnation. Instead, he picked up a bowl of ck water and approached Bei Qingsi. Using a brush, he dipped it into the inky, ''dirty'' liquid and slowly began applying it to Bei Qingsi''s beautiful silver hair.


    Bei Qingsi frowned slightly. She was a person with a penchant for cleanliness, only liking the purest white. This ck liquid on her hair felt like a defilement of her sacred purity.


    If it were anyone else, Bei Qingsi would have pped them away already. But since it was Zhong Shan applying the ''dirty'' ck liquid, she merely frowned slightly and stopped resisting.


    Zhong Shan meticulously brushed the ck water through Bei Qingsi''s hair. His movements were gentle and thorough, causing no difort to her scalp.


    As he brushed her hair repeatedly, his concentration seemed to affect Bei Qingsi. Her initial frown gradually rxed, her confused eyes gently closing as she began to enjoy the soothing andforting sensation of Zhong Shan''s careful strokes.


    Bei Qingsi had long hair, so dyeing it took a while. It took nearly half an hour to finish. Stepping back a little, Zhong Shan looked at her with satisfaction, though it seemed something was still missing.


    Feeling that Zhong Shan had stopped brushing, Bei Qingsi slightly opened her eyes.


    Seeing her gaze, Zhong Shan suddenly realized what was missing.


    He walked back to Bei Qingsi. "Close your eyes," he said.


    "Okay," Bei Qingsi closed her eyes gently, filled with curiosity.


    Zhong Shan took out a small brush and dipped it in the ck liquid, then carefully brushed it over Bei Qingsi''s beautiful silver eyebrows. His touch was very careful and gentle, making Bei Qingsi feel as if each stroke was tenderly brushing her heart. In that moment, she felt as if she never wanted to open her eyes again.


    "All done," Zhong Shan said with a softugh, putting down the small bowl.


    Bei Qingsi opened her eyes slightly, a hint of confusion shing within them.


    "Wait for half an hour until it dries," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Bei Qingsi nodded. Zhong Shan then walked to the edge of a smallke and started chiseling a rock with arge knife.


    In no time, he had chiseled out a strange shape. Bei Qingsi watched for a while, unable to understand what he was doing.


    Half an hourter, Zhong Shan said, "Come over here, lie down."


    "Uh?" Bei Qingsi was slightly puzzled but allowed Zhong Shan to help her over. Seeing the sloped rock meant for lying down, she finally understood.


    Blushing slightly, Bei Qingsiy down gently on the sloped rock, her head resting on a protruding part of the stone, allowing her hair to hang down into theke.


    Zhong Shan crouched on a stone beside Bei Qingsi''s head, gently took out a towel, dipped it in theke water, and began washing her now ck hair.


    He washed her hair over and over again, his movements incredibly gentle.


    Bei Qingsi, on the other hand,y motionless, holding back her tears of emotion, biting her lips and closing her eyes.


    Zhong Shan caressed Bei Qingsi''s long hair, carefully washing it, constantly parting the ckenedke water, and washing it over and over again.


    "This is hair dyeing. After washing your hair, the dye will not stain your clothes, and your hair and eyebrows will remain ck until new hair grows out," Zhong Shan exined softly.


    "Okay," Bei Qingsi responded, her voice slightly altered by emotion.


    Feeling Zhong Shan''s gentle washing and the light touch of the towel on her eyebrows, Bei Qingsi''s chest swelled with an overwhelming emotion. At this moment, she wished she could stay like this forever. But the hatred for her family''s enemies weighed heavily on her heart, reminding her that she must seek revenge.


    "It''s done. Take a look," Zhong Shan said, helping Bei Qingsi up with a bright smile.


    Bei Qingsi''s hair had turned ck, as had her eyebrows. Her silver hair had been extraordinarily beautiful and elegant, but now, with ck hair, she possessed a mysterious, traditional beauty.


    Zhong Shan flipped his hand, producing a mirror, and handed it to Bei Qingsi. He gently untied the sheet around her neck that had been stained by the dye.


    Looking into the mirror, Bei Qingsi wasn''t overly excited but rather moved. When emotion surpasses excitement, even the most astonishing things lose their surprise.


    "Thank you, I''m going to cultivate," Bei Qingsi said, leaving the mirror behind and quickly running into the previous cave.


    Holding the mirror, Zhong Shan watched Bei Qingsi run into the cave, his brows furrowing slightly as he sighed softly.


    Once inside the cave, Bei Qingsi couldn''t hold back her tears any longer, and they streamed down her face.


    After two incense sticks'' time, Bei Qingsi felt much better. She gently wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes, flipped her hand, and an ice block appeared in her palm. She looked at her reflection in the processed ice. Her eyebrows were ck, her hair was ck, and everything felt so miraculous.


    Touching her hair, Bei Qingsi''s eyes shed with a faint smile. Her gaze wasn''t on the ice mirror, as if she was recalling Zhong Shan''s every step during the process.


    Another half incense stick''s time passed before Bei Qingsi snapped out of her reverie. She sighed softly, put away the ice mirror, and felt a sense of loss.


    Two hundred dayster, outside the wolf area, a group of people pursuing Bei Qingsi gathered in a valley.


    "Sir, it''s been two hundred days. We''ve been spreading out and watching every corner of the wolf area, but we haven''t seen those two," one subordinate reported while kneeling.


    The schr-like man narrowed his eyes, constantly analyzing the current situation.


    "Sir, fifty days ago, the fire wolf brought out a piece of torn clothing, which clearly belonged to that man. The remnants of the Bei family and that man must be dead. We''ve waited another fifty days without seeing theme out. They must be dead, their bodies devoured by wolves," another subordinate respectfully said.


    The schr-like man gave the two a cold nce, then narrowed his eyes and said, "Maybe they really are dead. Let''s wait another ten days. If there''s still no sign of them, we''ll return to report."


    "Yes," the group immediately responded, quickly dispersing and returning to their original posts.


    Two hundred and twenty dayster, Zhong Shan sat cross-legged at the bottom of the smallke, surrounded by mud and spirit stones. His body had adjusted to internal breathing.


    During these two hundred days, Zhong Shan had been diligently working on opening his acupoints, with Bei Qingsi often assisting him in the process. The true essence stimtion had caused Zhong Shan''s cultivation to progress rapidly. However,pared to those cultivation prodigies, his progress was still modest.


    Finally, the opportunity for a breakthrough arrived. Zhong Shan, who should have been meditating on the shore, chose theke bottom. He wanted to use the pressure of theke water to break through to the seventh level of the innate stage, umting power for a powerful burst.


    Bei Qingsi stood worriedly on the shore, her gaze fixed on theke. Her divine sense extended into theke, constantly monitoring Zhong Shan''s condition.


    On the one hundred and eightieth day in the valley, Zhong Shan had torn his clothes and found a wolf to take them out, preparing for the two hundredth day. But after some thought, he decided to hold back, realizing he was on the verge of a breakthrough, and waited another fifty days.


    When Zhong Shan proposed the idea to Bei Qingsi, she readily agreed. Over the past eight months, the two had spent every day together, and a bond of affection had long since formed in Bei Qingsi''s heart. Zhong Shan, too, harbored feelings for her. However, throughout this time, they both maintained propriety, each with their own ns for revenge. They refrained from discussing their personal feelings, neither taking that crucial step towards each other.


    In her heart, Bei Qingsi had already grown ustomed to Zhong Shan. If it weren''t for the need to avenge her family, she would truly wish to stay by Zhong Shan''s side forever. She found it satisfying to help Zhong Shan with meals every day, even though she had never done such things before.


    As she looked at theke, tension flickered in Bei Qingsi''s eyes, as if it were she who was undergoing the breakthrough.


    Zhong Shan sat with his eyes closed, surrounded by a radiance of malevolent energy at the bottom of theke. The crimson energy, like a zing fire, seemed to burn the surrounding water.


    Around Zhong Shan, theke water vaporized, producing numerous bubbles that constantly rose to the surface.


    Zhong Shan appeared like a ming sun, illuminating the depths of theke. His brow furrowed, veins bulging on his forehead.


    "Ha~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Zhong Shan roared under theke, his eyes snapping open as he exhaled a forceful stream of air, pushing the water away.


    Apanying his roar, two muffled sounds erupted from within his body.


    "Boom!" "Boom!"


    After the shout, Zhong Shan quickly closed his mouth and eyes, his mind once again sinking inward.


    On the shore, Bei Qingsi let out a sigh of relief, her eyes softening, and a smile appeared on her lips. Zhong Shan had seeded. She turned towards the makeshift stove Zhong Shan had set up not far away to prepare another pot of fish soup. Zhong Shan had been underwater for five days and needed sustenance.


    Zhong Shan had broken through. Under the immense pressure, he had reached the seventh level of the innate stage and even opened an additional acupoint, a significant achievement.


    He continuously channeled his true essence into the two acupoints, consolidating them and storing true essence to further stabilize his cultivation.


    An hourter, Zhong Shan slowly rose, collecting the spirit stones around him. He stood up lightly, then swiftly propelled himself towards the surface.

 Chapter 122: The Mysterious Mud Buddha

    <h4>Chapter 122: The Mysterious Mud Buddha</h4>


    In the northeastern part of the Wolf Region, Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi raced through a dense forest. Ten days ago, they had finally left the Wolf Region, and the group of red-robed pursuers who had been after Bei Qingsi hadpletely withdrawn. Individually, these red-robed figures were not very strong, but when organized, they were formidable. Even with her inherited bloodline powers, Bei Qingsi had barely escaped death at their hands.


    Although Zhong Shan suspected that the pursuers had retreated, he and Bei Qingsi decided to continue traveling through the forest to reduce their visibility. This made their progress slower but ensured their safety.


    "Once we cross that mountain, we''ll be there," Bei Qingsi pointed to a distant peak.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded, taking a deep breath. The task ahead was to fulfill his master''smand and seek out the Mud Buddha.


    The two climbed the final mountain. Standing at the summit, Bei Qingsi pointed towards a circr valley in the distance.


    "It''s in that valley," Bei Qingsi said.


    "Got it," Zhong Shan nodded slightly.


    "Let''s go!" Bei Qingsi called out again.


    "Wait," Zhong Shan suddenly eximed in surprise.


    "Hmm?" Bei Qingsi looked at Zhong Shan in confusion.


    Zhong Shan noticed something unusual about the mountain they were standing on. There, on the mountain''s surface, tworge, vigorous characters were prominently disyed.


    "Ren Shen!"


    Ren Shen? These characters were carved into the mountain itself. Looking at the adjacent mountains, Zhong Shan saw more characters: "Ji Wei" on one, and further along, "Xin Wei" and "Ding Wei" . Each mountain around the valley had two different characters inscribed on it.


    Zhong Shan recognized these characters; they were part of the "Sixty-Nine Dragons," a method of recording directions. Characters such as "Tian" , "Ren" , "Fu", and "Di" were also visible, forming a pattern around the valley.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan understood. The surrounding mountains, each with their inscriptions, formed concentric circles around the valley, creating a giganticpass.


    A superpass, with the distant valley as its central point, the "Heavenly Pool." The outer rings corresponded to the Bagua (Eight Trigrams), Nine Stars, Celestial Stars, Twenty-Four Positions, Seventy-Two Earthly Features, Twelve Divisions, Sixty-Nine Dragons, and the Celestial Constetions, totaling eighteen circles.


    It was indeed apass, using mountains as itsponents. But was this naturally formed or man-made?


    "What''s wrong?" Bei Qingsi asked, puzzled by Zhong Shan''s reaction.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath. "Let''s go. I was just momentarily stunned."


    "Alright," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    The two continued towards the center of the mountainpass, the Heavenly Pool.


    Upon reaching the edge of the circr valley, Zhong Shan confirmed his suspicions.


    Above the Heavenly Pool, a circr valley, the sky was filled with clouds. These clouds formed eighteen concentric circles, creating a massivepass pattern. Unlike the surrounding mountains, these cloud circles slowly rotated along their own trajectories, seemingly embodying the profound principles of heaven and earth.


    "Junior Bei Qingsi, greets the senior," Bei Qingsi called out towards the valley, refraining from entering without permission.


    "Who are you?" A faint, deep male voice echoed from within the valley.


    The voice carried an air of ancient, worldly wisdom, an indifferent majesty that made it clear this was someone who looked upon the world with a detached superiority.


    "My father, Bei Qingfeng, was killed by enemies. He left something with you for safekeeping. I implore you to return it to me so that I may avenge him," Bei Qingsi immediately replied.


    "Drop a drop of your blood into the Heavenly Pool," the man''s voice echoed again from the valley.


    "Yes," Bei Qingsiplied without hesitation.


    She pricked her finger, letting a drop of blood bead at the tip, then flicked it towards the center of the white cloudpass, into the Heavenly Pool.


    As soon as the blood touched the pool, the entire white cloudpass turned blood red, as if stained by countless drops of blood. The eighteen circles of thepass began to spin faster, more than doubling their speed, as if calcting something based on the drop of blood.


    Zhong Shan watched with wide eyes, amazed at the mystical phenomenon before him.


    The enormous red cloudpass spun for a while before, slowly, a column of characters emerged in midair above the Heavenly Pool.


    "Geng Yin, Jia Shen, Ren Chen, Gui Mao"


    Eight golden characters hung in the air, glowing brightly.


    Bei Qingsi''s eyes widened in shock upon seeing these characters.


    "Senior, your divine power is truly admirable," Bei Qingsi said respectfully.


    "Indeed, these birth characters are what Bei Qingfeng''s descendants should have. You may retrieve what you came for. Enter," the man''s voice called again from within the valley.


    With that, the previously blood-red clouds turned white once more, and a thin mist of red rose and evaporated from the Heavenly Pool, clearly the remnant of Bei Qingsi''s blood drop.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi exchanged a look and slowly descended into the valley. The white clouds did not impede them and began to disperse as they entered.


    With the clouds dispersing, sunlight flooded the valley. To the northwest, a small waterfall cascaded down into a pond, from which a stream flowed out to the southwest. The east was covered in a bamboo grove, and at the center stood a simple thatched hut.


    In front of the hut, a stooped figure sat cross-legged on a bamboo bed. This was the man who had spoken earlier��Mud Buddha.


    Mud Buddha was dressed in gray hemp robes, his head lowered, examining what appeared to be an etherealpass in his hands. Thispass wasn''t t; it seemed three-dimensional, with eighteen circles revolving around the center like a sphere.


    As the two descended into the valley, Mud Buddha waved his hand, and the spectralpass vanished.


    Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi approached respectfully.


    Mud Buddha slowly lifted his head, revealing a face marred by numerous pustules covering the right half, making his appearance both rugged and terrifying.


    "Senior," Bei Qingsi said respectfully, kneeling before Mud Buddha.


    Zhong Shan remained standing, choosing not to kneel. Mud Buddha looked at Bei Qingsi, a hint of sorrow shing in his eyes.


    "I knew of your father''s death long ago. The path he chose was his own. I cannot alter fate. Besides, my own life is not yet repaired, so how could I save him? Knowing he would die and being unable to save him is my own sorrow," Mud Buddha said, his voice tinged with sadness.


    "Qingsi does not me you, senior. My father knew he was going to die, which is why he divided the evidence into three parts. I have already obtained two parts; only one remains," Bei Qingsi said sincerely.


    Mud Buddha looked at Bei Qingsi and nodded lightly. "Indeed. This journey back is an opportunity for you. Seize it well, and do not waste your father''s efforts."


    "What does senior mean by this?" Bei Qingsi asked, looking up in confusion.


    But Mud Buddha did not borate. Instead, he flipped his hand, producing a booklet simr to the one Taixuzi had given Bei Qingsi before.


    Slowly rising, his previously stooped body straightened, revealing a figure radiating an aura of dominance. He handed the booklet to Bei Qingsi.


    "Thank you, senior," Bei Qingsi said, taking the booklet with excitement.


    Zhong Shan, however, showed no joy, knowing that receiving the booklet meant Bei Qingsi would soon leave.


    "Rise, and set out as soon as possible. Do not miss your chance," Mud Buddha said softly.


    "Yes," Bei Qingsi replied, standing up and quickly flipping through the booklet before putting it away.


    "Alright, you may leave," Mud Buddha said again.


    "Senior," Zhong Shan called out.


    Hearing Zhong Shan, Mud Buddha''s terrifying face showed a trace of surprise. He had thought Zhong Shan was merely apanying Bei Qingsi. Could it be that there was more to it?


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath, realizing that Mud Buddha''s enigmatic nature did not mean he knew everything. "My master is Tian Xingzi," he said.


    "Tian Xingzi?" Mud Buddha frowned, a hint of annoyance shing in his eyes. Clearly, he did not have a favorable impression of Tian Xingzi.


    "My master''s wife has died. My master humbly requests that youe out to find the killer," Zhong Shan said respectfully.


    "What?" Mud Buddha''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    "My master''s wife has died. My master humbly requests that youe out to find the killer," Zhong Shan repeated.


    "Wuyou is dead? Impossible. Impossible," Mud Buddha muttered, his body trembling. The news was clearly a tremendous shock.


    "Senior," Zhong Shan called out again.


    Mud Buddha steadied himself, his eyes glowing green as he stared at Zhong Shan. However, Zhong Shan, with a clear conscience, remained unfazed.


    Taking a deep breath, Mud Buddha red at Zhong Shan, then flicked his sleeve towards the nearby deep pool.


    "Boom!"


    A column of water shot up into the sky, the waterfall seeming to reverse its flow. The externalndscape seemed to shift as if influenced by this movement.


    "Boom!"


    A deafening roar came from the surroundings. Zhong Shan and Bei Qingsi exchanged astonished looks, the sound resembling the movement of mountains.


    From the deep pool, a hairpin slowly floated out. It was intricately carved with a phoenix head. The hairpin flew into Mud Buddha''s hand.


    Holding the hairpin, Mud Buddha''s three-dimensionalpass reappeared, trapping the hairpin in its center. Gradually, a ck mist emerged from the center of thepass.


    Mud Buddha stared at the ck mist, disbelief etched on his face. After three stunned breaths, his expression turned icy, his eyes emitting a chilling light. More pustules appeared on his face, and his chest heaved with fury.

 Chapter 123: The Return of Xiaolang

    <h4>Chapter 123: The Return of Xiang</h4>


    The chest of Ni Bodhisattva heaved with unrelenting fury, anger reaching its zenith. His once serene gaze, akin to still waters, now brimmed with boundless hostility.


    "Tianxingzi, you scoundrel!" Ni Bodhisattva suddenly roared to the heavens.


    With a thunderous roar, Ni Bodhisattva stamped his foot and soared into the sky, disregarding the presence of Zhongshan and Bei Qingsi before him. Like a cannonball, he shot towards the horizon, disappearing from sight in the blink of an eye.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan watched Ni Bodhisattva vanish into the sky with a perplexed expression. What kind of person was Ni Bodhisattva, after all? Zhongshan wasn''t worried for Tianxingzi because he could tell that Ni Bodhisattva''s overwhelming rage wasn''t directed at him, but rather at whoever had killed his wife.


    With Ni Bodhisattva gone, Zhongshan turned his gaze back to Bei Qingsi, a faint sense of reluctance shimmering in his eyes, while Bei Qingsi seemed hesitant to meet his gaze.


    Sighing softly, Zhongshan spoke, "Are you leaving immediately?"


    "Yes, I''ll head north by sea and won''t return to Kaiyang Sect," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    ncing at the lowered head of Bei Qingsi, Zhongshan gently suggested, "Let me apany you to the seaside."


    "Mm," Bei Qingsi softly agreed.


    The two then set off towards the north without exchanging words. It wasn''t until five dayster that they arrived at the end of a river, which flowed into the vast sea. In the distancey the boundless ocean, stretching endlessly out of sight.


    Both of them instinctively halted by the riverbank.


    Zhongshan looked at Bei Qingsi, who dared not meet his gaze.


    "Do you know the way?" Zhongshan asked clumsily.


    "When I first reached the Golden Core stage, I had been to the Divine Land. I know the way," Bei Qingsi replied softly.


    Silence ensued.


    Neither spoke, each bearing a faint sense of mncholy in their hearts, yet unable to articte it, only allowing it to settle into a heavy silence.


    After a while, Zhongshan suddenly spoke up, "Can you not go?"


    It was Zhongshan''s final plea, knowing that returning would be too dangerous.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Bei Qingsi felt a surge of reluctance. In this moment, she truly wanted to say ''yes''. But the images of her parents kept echoing in her mind. Could she really not go back now?


    Seeing Bei Qingsi''s expression, Zhongshan could guess her thoughts. He sighed softly, "Let me wash your hair one more time."


    At Zhongshan''s words, Bei Qingsi, who had avoided his gaze, suddenly turned to look at him, her eyes filled with tenderness and reluctance, a faint sorrow lingering in her heart. She looked at Zhongshan as if trying to imprint his appearance into her memory once again.


    "Mm," Bei Qingsi nodded softly. She bit her lip, refraining from saying anything extra, fearing that she might break down in tears.


    At the riverside, Zhongshan still hewed arge stone for Bei Qingsi to lie on. Bei Qingsi could control the flow of water to her hair, making it easier for Zhongshan to wash, but she didn''t. Instead, she let Zhongshan do it himself.


    Running his hand through Bei Qingsi''s darkened hair, Zhongshan took a deep breath. Without using a towel, he scooped water with his own hands, wetting Bei Qingsi''s hair gently and attentively, washing it with great care and tenderness.


    However, Bei Qingsi kept her eyes fixed on Zhongshan. He washed her hair with such concentration that Bei Qingsi didn''t dare to look away.


    Finally, after washing her hair three times, Zhongshan eventually took out a dry towel and carefully dried Bei Qingsi''s hair, even though he could have easily used his True Qi to dry it instantly. But Bei Qingsi didn''t use it, and Zhongshan seemed to forget about it too, instead opting to use the towel to dry her hair repeatedly until it was incredibly smooth and refreshing. Only then did Zhongshan put away the towel.


    Looking at Bei Qingsi, Zhongshan took a deep breath. The time for farewell had arrived, yet, at this moment, he found it impossible to speak.


    "I''m leaving," Bei Qingsi spoke softly.


    "Mm," Zhongshan responded simply.


    Turning around, Bei Qingsi stepped onto her sword and swiftly flew towards the sea in the northwest direction. In the blink of an eye, she disappeared from Zhongshan''s sight. Bei Qingsi had been holding back for a long time. When Zhongshan offered to wash her hair, she had been holding back, but finally, after their farewell, she couldn''t contain herself anymore. With tears streaming down her face, she flew away at a rapid pace, not daring to look back. She feared that if she did, she wouldn''t be able to fly anymore.


    By the riverbank, Zhongshan watched Bei Qingsi disappear into the distance, feeling a sense of loss in his heart. He closed his eyes and took a few deep breaths before slowly calming the sorrow in his heart.


    Bei Qingsi had gone, and he still had to strive. He had his own path to walk, and this sudden feeling should be buried deep in his heart. The road ahead was tough, and he had to work even harder.


    When Zhongshan opened his eyes again, the sorrow had vanished, reced by a firm determination, a resolve to control his destiny.


    Meanwhile, atop a nearby mountain peak, not far from where Zhongshan had been washing Bei Qingsi''s hair, a pair of eyes watched intently.


    These eyes flickered with confusion and iprehension. Yet, as if sensing the sorrow of the two figures below, they also bore a hint of eerie mncholy.


    Why mncholy? Because the owner of these eyes was a silver-white little wolf, standing over two feet tall��


    Outside the Kaiyang Sect, by the Kaiyang Hall.


    Tiansha approached, his sword in hand, a furrow on his brow, filled with a sense of frustration. It had been almost nine months since he and Zhongshan had parted ways, and they still hadn''t returned?


    For the first time, Tiansha harbored a special hatred for someone: Zhongshan. How could someone with such mediocre cultivation like him have such good luck? With such poor aptitude, he had still been epted into the Kaiyang Sect? And his luck didn''t stop there; even their Master had taken him as a disciple early on, when he was just at the Fifth Stage of the Natal Realm. Tiansha himself hadn''t received such an honor back then.


    What was most infuriating was Bei Qingsi, the Ice Lotus of the Kaiyang Sect. Had she lost her mind? She had actually fallen for Zhongshan. Tiansha had pursued her for so long, yet she had never shown him any tenderness. And now she was infatuated with Zhongshan?


    Tiansha gritted his teeth in anger.


    Approaching the Kaiyang Hall, just as he was about to enter, amotion came from within.


    It was Tianxingzi and Nie Qingqing''s voices.


    "I must take Ling''er away, I must, it''s necessary," Nie Qingqing shouted at Tianxingzi.


    "No, Ling''er can''t go with you," Tianxingzi immediately retorted.


    "Why not? What can you offer her here? Can''t you see? She has reached the Golden Core stage. With her potential, cultivation is so easy. But here with you, she''ll only waste her talent. I must take her away. Only within the family can she receive the best upbringing. I can''t just stand by and watch her ruined by you, this useless father," Nie Qingqing angrily insisted.


    "Not a chance, I said no and that''s final," Tianxingzi retorted firmly.


    "How can you face my sister?" Nie Qingqing hurled the most hurtful words she could muster.


    "No way. If Wuyou were alive, she would make the same decision as I did. Your family is tooplicated. Ling''er doesn''t need your family''s support. All we want is for Ling''er to be happy. As long as Ling''er is joyful, that''s all that matters. That''s the best thing for her," Tianxingzi immediately countered.


    "You...!" Nie Qingqing pointed at Tianxingzi, seething with anger, unable to say a word.


    Outside the hall, Tiansha, upon hearing Nie Qingqing mention that Ling''er had the "Li Ding physique," was utterly stunned. His eyes filled with astonishment, delight, and a sense of sudden realization.


    Tiansha was overwhelmed with excitement and took a deep breath to forcibly calm himself.


    "Is that Tiansha outside?" Tianxingzi''s voice came from within the hall.


    Tiansha quickly walked inside.


    Seeing Tianxingzi, Tiansha immediately bowed respectfully, "Yes, Master. The tasks you assigned have beenpleted."


    "Good. Very well. You may go rest now," Tianxingzi nodded.


    "Yes," Tiansha replied swiftly and exited the hall.


    After leaving the Kaiyang Hall, Tiansha, seeming somewhat anxious, flew towards a distant peak.


    At the base of the peak, Yun Qian was guiding several low-ranking disciples of the Kaiyang Sect in their cultivation.


    "Yun Qian," Tiansha called out urgently.


    "Ah, Senior Brother?" Yun Qian immediately looked at Tiansha.


    "Where is Ling''er?" Tiansha asked at once.


    "Ling''er? She''s been at the entrance of the Kaiyang Secttely, outside the mountain-guarding formation. It seems she''s waiting for someone," Yun Qian pondered for a moment and replied.


    "Waiting for someone?" Tiansha frowned.


    "Yes, Senior Brother. Do you need Ling''er for something?" Yun Qian asked, puzzled.


    "No, nothing. Carry on with your work," Tiansha shook his head and said.


    Then, under Yun Qian''s confused gaze, Tiansha tossed his flying sword and flew towards the entrance of the Kaiyang Sect.


    At the entrance of the Kaiyang Sect.


    Outside the small hut where the mountain was guarded, there were two rocking chairs.


    Beside one of the rocking chairs was a teapot, and the mountain guardian was lying on it, half-closed eyes, rocking back and forth, thoroughly enjoying himself.


    In front of the mountain guardian, Tian Ling''er was gazing expectantly into the distance, looking at the empty expanse.


    "Grandpa Shan, when do you think Zhongshan wille back?" Tian Ling''er asked, pouting, her face full of worry.


    As she spoke, Ling''er idly kicked a small stone by her feet.


    "Pa!"

 Chapter 124: Azure Cloud

    <h4>Chapter 124: Azure Cloud</h4>


    Shoushan lounged leisurely, utterly rxed, as if he hadn''t heard Ling''er speak.


    "Grandpa Shan," Tian Ling''er turned and saw Shoushan appearing to be asleep.


    "Huh?" Shoushan seemed to wake up suddenly, an innocent expression on his face.


    Tian Ling''er sighed in resignation, walking over to the rocking chair to sip some tea before lying down to gaze at the sky.


    "Grandpa Shan, when do you think Zhongshan wille back?" Tian Ling''er asked again.


    Shoushan opened his eyes slightly, "Ling''er, do you n to wait here for Zhongshan forever?"


    "Yes, I''m going to wait until Zhongshan returns," Tian Ling''er said firmly.


    "Zhongshan''s roots are poor, his cultivation is slow. What''s so good about him?" Shoushan asked with a smile.


    "Zhongshan is good at everything. You can''t speak ill of Zhongshan, or I won''t talk to you anymore," Tian Ling''er pouted.


    "Alright, alright, I won''t say a word," Shoushan chuckled, shaking his head.


    "Good," Ling''er nodded.


    "So, when Zhongshan returns, what will you say to him?" Shoushan asked, still smiling.


    "Uh, I''ll say, I''ll say..." Tian Ling''er''s face turned red, as if embarrassed to speak the next words.


    "Ling''er~~~"


    Suddenly, Tiansha''s voice came from behind them.


    Tian Ling''er and Shoushan quickly got up.


    "Senior Brother?" Tian Ling''er looked at Tiansha in surprise.


    Shoushan, however, quickly moved the two rocking chairs inside the hut and slowly retreated into the Kaiyang Sect formation.


    Tiansha watched Shoushan, noting that Shoushan and the guardian of the sect, who managed the Rare Treasures Pavilion, were peculiar presences in the Kaiyang Sect. They always imed to be on the verge of death and refused to interact with others, but Tiansha had been in the sect for years without seeing either of them pass away.


    These two were among the senior generation in the Kaiyang Sect, yet their identities remained unknown. Even the sect master was generally ignored by them. Only Tian Ling''er seemed to have any familiarity with them.


    "Ling''er, what were you talking about with Shoushan?" Tiansha asked.


    "Nothing much," Tian Ling''er quickly replied.


    Hearing her response, Tiansha''s brow furrowed, and he instantly calmed down from his earlier impulse.


    Ling''er was no longer the same as before.


    Recalling what was said in front of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, Tiansha felt a pang of regret. Ling''er was no longer the little girl who used to cling to him.


    At this moment, Tiansha felt an urge to p himself. Why had he said such things back then?


    His expression gradually softened, though Tian Ling''er did not notice it at all.


    "Senior Brother, did you need something? Is there a reason you''re looking for me?" Tian Ling''er asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, why are you here? Why don''t you go back inside the formation?" Tiansha asked immediately.


    "Oh, I''m waiting for Zhongshan to return," Tian Ling''er replied.


    Waiting for Zhongshan to return!


    Those words felt like a needle stabbing into Tiansha''s heart, an unknown frustration welling up inside him, making his heart feel like a balloon about to burst. With Tian Ling''er''s words, the pressure suddenly exploded.


    Tiansha felt as if he were leaking air, his eyes turning red.


    Zhongshan, it''s always Zhongshan!


    "Senior Brother, what''s wrong?" Ling''er asked, puzzled.


    Ling''er''s words instantly brought Tian Sha back to his senses. This was not the time to be angry, especially not in front of Ling''er.


    Suppressing his inner frustration, Tian Sha looked at Ling''er, shook his head, and said, "It''s nothing. I was just asking. When Zhong Shan returns, he will definitelye back inside the grand array. Let''s go back. Aren''t you bored being here alone?"


    "No, Senior Brother, you go back. I must see Zhong Shan as soon as possible," Tian Ling''er immediately shook her head, and then her gaze shifted away from Tian Sha.


    Watching Tian Ling''er''s back, Tian Sha felt a deste sense of autumn leaves swept away by the wind. Was he being ignored?


    Once upon a time, when Tian Ling''er saw him, she was so excited, enthusiastic, and full of admiration. But now? Now everything had changed. Tian Ling''er''s attention was entirely on Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan, always Zhong Shan. Hmph!


    With a cold snort and a chest full of pent-up frustration, Tian Sha turned and walked back to the grand array of the Kaiyang Sect��


    In the Wolf Domain, within a certain valley.


    The emperor of the Yin Moon Dynasty, Mr. Shi, General Thunder, and seven others were all present.


    Everyone stood behind the emperor, who was conversing with a man in a green robe.


    The man in the green robe had a fairplexion, but his pupils were an eerie green. What was even more unusual were his ears��covered in green fur. They were wolf ears. Yes, a pair of wolf ears.


    "General Qingyun Wolf, thank you so much this time," the emperor said.


    Everyone behind the emperor looked at the wolf-eared man with respect.


    General Qingyun Wolf stared at the emperor with his eerie eyes for a moment before saying, "I owe you my life and have no way to repay you. I promised to introduce you to the Supreme and will do my best to speak on your behalf, hoping the Supreme will give you a chance."


    "Thank you," the emperor said, full of excitement.


    "Hmm, the Tiang Ind has only your Yin Moon Dynasty. The Supreme should consider it. I''ll go to the Supreme now. You stay here and don''t leave, especially not to the north," General Qingyun Wolf thought for a moment and said.


    "The north? Is the north a forbidden area in the Wolf Domain?" the emperor asked in surprise.


    "Uh? It''s not exactly a forbidden area, but the north is very peculiar. The Young Master often goes there. Just don''t disturb the Young Master," General Qingyun Wolf immediately reminded.


    "Young Master?" The emperor seemed to grasp something and quickly asked.


    "Hmm, just be mindful. I have to go now, or I won''t be able to see the Supreme," General Qingyun Wolf said promptly.


    "Thank you," the emperor nodded.


    General Qingyun Wolf''s figure flickered, transforming into a massive fifty-meter tall green wolf. With a step that kicked up a cloud of dust, he leaped out of sight.


    Watching General Qingyun Wolf leave, the emperor''s clenched fists trembled slightly with excitement and anticipation. Introducing him to the Wolf n Supreme��helping General Qingyun Wolf privately to offend a powerful enemy in the past was indeed the most correct decision he had ever made.


    If this mission seeds, the Yin Moon Dynasty will soon be renamed the ''Yin Moon Empire''. Then, they will have enough power to conquer and upy a part of the Divine Continent.


    "Congrattions, Your Majesty," General Thunder immediately congratted.


    "Congrattions, Your Majesty," everyone else also congratted the emperor.


    "The Wolf n Supreme has not yet agreed. We cannot call it a sess now. Congrattions are premature," the emperor said modestly. However, his tightly clenched fists revealed his excitement.


    "General Qingyun Wolf is a disciple of the Wolf n Supreme. With him stepping in, it should not be a big problem," General Thunder said. Clearly, in his eyes, this matter was already a done deal.


    "Hopefully," the emperor said, excited but not losing hisposure, only nodding slightly.


    "It will definitely work," General Thunder affirmed immediately.


    "What does Mr. Shi think?" The emperor turned to ask Mr. Shi.


    "I''m not sure. I hope Your Majesty will gain the Supreme''s approval," Mr. Shi replied respectfully.


    "Thank you for your kind words," the emperor nodded.


    The group then patiently waited��


    At the northern seaside, Zhong Shan had just sent off Bei Qingsi. Although he had calmed down, a slight mncholy lingered in his heart. Turning his head, Zhong Shan spotted a small, two-foot-tall silver wolf on a distant hill.


    "Awoooooo��"


    The little wolf on the hill stared at Zhong Shan and suddenly howled. The howl was long and seemed to carry a note of joy.


    Looking at the wolf with its pure, gleaming fur, Zhong Shan frowned, rapidly sifting through his memories.


    A demon wolf? Was it that demon wolf?


    Back when he first met Zhao Suoxiang, there was a silver wolf that fought with his unruly son Zhong Di. Later, he had released the little silver wolf.


    It had the same appearance, the same fur, the same wolf nose, and the same eyes, but its size had doubled.


    Was it that little wolf? How did it end up here? How did it find him?


    As he pondered, Zhong Shan suddenly recalled another incident. Ever since hisst encounter with this little wolf, after being ''spat on'' by the wolf, he seemed to be epted by the wolf n. Many times when he encountered wolves, they did not attack him. Even in this wolf-dominated Wolf Domain, he moved unhindered. Could it be because of this wolf?


    Zhong Shan ran toward the little wolf, and the little wolf also ran joyfully toward Zhong Shan, as if reuniting with a long-lost friend.


    Seeing the little wolf so happy, Zhong Shan became more certain of his guess. It was that little wolf, and it still remembered him.


    When they met halfway up the mountain, the little wolf seemed extremely excited. Without hesitation, it leaped into Zhong Shan''s arms.


    "Thud��"


    Zhong Shan was knocked to the ground by the little wolf. Of course, Zhong Shan could have easily pped the little wolf away, but in that moment, how could he?


    The little wolf affectionately licked Zhong Shan''s cheek with its little wolf tongue.


    "Hahaha, okay, stop moving, stop moving," Zhong Shan immediately hugged the little wolf to stop it from moving. Even if it was the wolf n''s way of showing friendliness, Zhong Shan found it a bit overwhelming.


    Regardless, escaping from the wolves and entering the Wolf Domain unscathed was all thanks to this little wolf. Zhong Shan felt a deep sense of gratitude towards the little wolf.

 Chapter 125: Invincible!

    <h4>Chapter 125: Invincible!</h4>


    After holding onto Zhong Shan for a while, the little wolf gradually calmed down from its excitement and finally let go of him.


    Zhong Shan sat up, and the little wolf affectionately rubbed its small head against Zhong Shan''s arm. Zhong Shan gently petted the little wolf''s head, finding its fur as soft and smooth as ever. The little wolf seemed to thoroughly enjoy it.


    The next moment, the little wolf suddenly jumped away and ran ahead.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s puzzled look, the little wolf stopped and turned back, barking at him with a couple of short "woofs."


    At this, Zhong Shan immediately understood that the little wolf wanted him to follow.


    Although slightly puzzled, Zhong Shan had alreadypleted the task given by his master, and Bei Qingsi had left. Now with nothing else to do, he stood up and followed the little wolf.


    The little wolf, seeing Zhong Shan following, bounced happily along the way, clearly pleased that Zhong Shan understood its intention.


    Zhong Shan was filled with curiosity as he followed the little wolf.


    It wasn''t long before the little wolf led Zhong Shan to the top of a tall mountain. Looking ahead, Zhong Shan frowned. This area was clearly a wolf territory, as there were many wolf dens. Moreover, the wolves here were not weak. Previously, he and Bei Qingsi had avoided this ce even with their Wolf Domain passage tokens.


    "Awooooo��"


    The little wolf howled towards the distance.


    "Awooooo" "Awooooo" "Awooooo"��The howls echoed from the surrounding valleys, each one louder than thest. Standing at the peak, looking at the mist-covered valleys below, Zhong Shan couldn''t see the wolves but felt a chill down his spine. The sheer number of responding wolves made it sound like the army of the Dazhen Dynasty, perhaps even more, like tens of thousands, maybe hundreds of thousands of wolves howling in unison.


    The howls of ten thousand wolves seemed to be in response to the little wolf, making it pace back and forth in excitement.


    "Huff��Huff��Huff��"


    A group of white wolves quickly approached from the distance. Each one was as white as snow, and Zhong Shan noticed that a mist-like cold air surrounded them. No, it wasn''t mist, but cold air that condensed the surrounding moisture into mist.


    About a hundred white wolves, the tallest nearly thirty meters high and the shortest over ten meters, approached. Based on what he learned from the Kaiyang Sect, these wolves were at least at the human Jindan stage, or even the Yuanying stage. And now, over a hundred of them were here?


    Zhong Shan nced at the excited little wolf beside him and didn''t feel nervous, just deeply grateful. Saving this little wolf back then was indeed the right decision.


    The hundred or sorge wolves stood below the mountain peak, howling as if waiting for the little wolf''smand.


    The little wolf rubbed against Zhong Shan once more and then began to howl at the wolves below.


    "Awooo awooo awooo," it seemed to bemunicating in the uniquenguage of wolves.


    After a brief exchange of wolf howls, the thirty-meter-high wolves all looked up at Zhong Shan with a mix of surprise and frustration in their eyes. Being at the Yuanying stage, theserge wolves could see through Zhong Shan''s cultivation level. Although Zhong Shan couldn''t understand what the little wolf had told them, their aggrieved expressions made it clear.


    But the little wolf paid no heed to their feelings. It barked at Zhong Shan twice more and led him down the mountain.


    Naturally, Zhong Shan followed. The little wolf bounded joyfully ahead, while the wolves below slowly prostrated themselves, pressing their heads to the ground.


    As Zhong Shan descended the mountain, he was filled with amazement. What was the little wolf''s background? This was incredible.


    "Thud��"


    The little wolf quickly leaped onto the head of thergest wolf, standing proudly on top and letting out excited howls. Its small paws wed at the fur of the Yuanying-stage wolf beneath it, messing up its fur. Despite this, therge wolf didn''t even flinch. The little wolf rolled around on the big wolf''s head, a sight that left Zhong Shan wide-eyed in amazement.


    After a while, the little wolf sat up and barked a few times at Zhong Shan, then nodded its head towards another Yuanying-stage wolf.


    Understanding the little wolf''s intention, Zhong Shan realized it wanted him to stand on the otherrge wolf''s head. Seeing the snarling face of the big wolf, Zhong Shan hesitated.


    "Woof, woof!" The little wolf barked twice at the disobedient big wolf.


    Reluctantly, therge wolf lowered its head, allowing Zhong Shan to climb on.


    Invincible! The little wolf truly was invincible.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan''s initial hesitation was reced by excitement. Although cautious by nature, Zhong Shan also had a daring spirit. With the little wolf''smand, Zhong Shan boldly leaped onto the big wolf''s head.


    Therge wolf shook its head, clearly displeased, but resigned to its fate, it stood up, its head swaying slightly.


    Standing on such a massive wolf for the first time, Zhong Shan felt an overwhelming sense of exhration. This was a Yuanying-stage wolf, after all. Despite its asional head shakes, Zhong Shan easily maintained his bnce given his cultivation level.


    "Awooooo��"


    The little wolf atop the other wolf let out a long howl, prompting all the surrounding wolves to rise and join in the howling.


    "Woof, woof, woof, woof."


    The wolves howled, seemingly responding to the little wolf''s rallying call.


    The little wolf issued amand to the big wolf beneath it, which then took the lead and started running. Therge wolf Zhong Shan stood on followed suit, running alongside it.


    The thirty-meter-tall wolf resembled a giant fortress, a towering ten-story structure swiftly charging across thend like a wolf-shaped war chariot.


    Zhong Shan could only imagine the impact such a pack of wolves would have in a battlefield. The sight of these massive wolves charging would be beyond intimidating. Yuanying-stage wolves, skilled in the use of magical techniques, could create devastating effects inbat, turning the battlefield into a scene of carnage.


    The wolves ran at an astonishing speed, crossing mountains in the blink of an eye. Their formidable cultivation allowed them to move with incredible swiftness. A pack of Jindan-stage wolves followed behind, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle as they ran through the mountainous terrain.


    The little wolf barked excitedly, and all the wolves obediently followed its lead, an extraordinary sight.


    Zhong Shan relished the speed, finding it even faster than riding on Bei Qingsi''s flying sword. The run was as swift as flying on a sword.


    The pack of wolves raced towards a valley, where numerous other wolves awaited, their eyes filled with anticipation. The stronger wolves joined the pack, while the weaker ones could only watch in admiration.


    As more wolves joined the pack, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but marvel at the sheer power of this wolf army. If only these wolves could be used for the Dazhen Dynasty, their strength would be unparalleled.


    Imagining an army where each soldier rode a wolf, a formidable cavalry of wolf riders, Zhong Shan envisioned the ultimate battlefield force.


    The sight of ten thousand wolves charging together was awe-inspiring. The pack had now moved from one wolf territory to another, transitioning from the white wolf area to the red wolf area, then the ck wolf area. Wherever they went, powerful wolves joined in, ying and running with the little wolf.


    On the journey, the little wolf remained exceptionally excited, seemingly preparing everything for Zhong Shan''s enjoyment. While the little wolf saw it all as fun, Zhong Shan perceived something much deeper. The little wolf''s status in Zhong Shan''s mind skyrocketed as it became evident that not only the white wolves but all types of wolves obeyed it. This was remarkable, especially considering the little wolf''s cultivation level was even lower than Zhong Shan''s.


    With these thoughts, Zhong Shan enjoyed the experience of being surrounded and supported by thousands of wolves. The little wolf barkedmands to therger wolves around it.


    The giant wolf beneath Zhong Shan suddenly flicked its head, sending Zhong Shan flying through the air. Despite this, Zhong Shan did not resist, trusting that the little wolf would not harm him. As expected, a ck wolf, also thirty meters tall and at the Yuanying-stage, caught him on the other side.


    The little wolf, too, was flung from one wolf''s head to another, flying through the air and appearing incredibly joyful and excited. Zhong Shan yed along with the little wolf for a while, feeling a sense of awe and disbelief. The sight of ten thousand wolves running together was something even his master might find hard to believe.


    As night fell, the number of wolves behind Zhong Shan had grown to nearly twenty thousand. When it became dark, the little wolf gave amand, and all the wolves suddenly stopped. Despite therge number of wolves, there was an uncanny silence.


    Under the little wolf''smand, rows of red wolves opened their mouths and shot massive fireballs into the sky, which exploded into fireworks. Then, the white wolves did the same, but with blue, glowing ice balls that burst into icy fireworks. Purple wolves shot purple fireworks, and the Yuanying-stage wolves created intricate shapes like wolf heads and trees with their magic, all bursting into dazzling disys.


    Zhong Shan was stunned. The little wolf had orchestrated a massive disy of fireworks using the wolves'' magical abilities. This incredible spectaclested for an hour before the little wolf finally called a halt, looking at Zhong Shan and nudging him with its head as if asking if he had enjoyed the show.


    Touched and deeply impressed, Zhong Shan petted the little wolf''s head, acknowledging its remarkable status. The little wolf, in turn, seemed to thoroughly enjoy Zhong Shan''s affectionate gestures.


    After a while, the little wolf barked a few moremands, causing the wolves to disperse. Only the red wolf beneath Zhong Shan remained, continuing to run under the little wolf''s direction towards a particr valley.


    From outside the valley, Zhong Shan could see a glowing light emanating from within, indicating that something valuable awaited them inside.

 Chapter 126: The Little Wolf Encounters Calamity

    <h4>Chapter 126: The Little Wolf Encounters Cmity</h4>


    At the entrance of the valley, therge red wolf halted, gently lowering its head to the ground to allow the little wolf to disembark smoothly.


    The little wolf dashed ahead gleefully, bounding off therge wolf''s head, with Zhong Shan following closely behind.


    The little wolf let out two soft howls towards therge wolf. Therge wolf nodded in acknowledgment and turned to leave.


    Now, only Zhong Shan and the little wolf remained.


    The sky had darkened, but the little wolf''s excitement had not waned. It continued leading Zhong Shan deeper into the valley, as if eager to show him its treasures.


    The previous scene still left Zhong Shan feeling as if he were in a dream. The parade of wolves felt like a grand military review, with the little wolf acting as his guide through this awe-inspiring spectacle.


    Following the little wolf, they swiftly made their way towards the glowing valley. Zhong Shan''s heart was filled with anticipation. What strange wondersy within this luminous valley?


    Earlier, during the grand disy of fireworks, the serene night sky was illuminated with brilliant colors, dazzling and breathtaking.


    In a valley, the Emperor of the Yin Moon Dynasty, Mr. Corpse, General Thunder, and others watched the distant fireworks with furrowed brows.


    Their eyes were filled with disbelief.


    "Your Majesty, those... what are those?" General Thunder asked, his curiosity piqued.


    "The internal matters of the wolf n. Do not interfere," the Emperor promptly replied.


    Everyone gazed at the distant, vibrant scene with immense curiosity. The spectacle was so magnificent that it left them all in a state of awe.


    "Your Majesty, General Qingyun hasn''t returned yet. Allow me to go and check," General Thunder said eagerly.


    "Wait for General Qingyun. Besides, he mentioned not to go north," the Emperor responded, frowning.


    "Your Majesty, it''s fine. General Qingyun only mentioned the presence of the wolf n''s young lord, fearing we might disturb them. I''ll be careful. I''ll return and report back shortly," General Thunder insisted, excitement evident in his voice.


    The Emperor frowned, clearly tempted. Why was there such a disy of magical power?


    "Your Majesty, I''ll apany General Thunder. We''ll return quickly," another person suggested.


    "Your Majesty, let me go and see," someone else chimed in.


    Everyone seemed exceedingly curious and eager to investigate.


    The Emperor looked at them, his brow furrowed. "No, wait for General Qingyun. Hmm, Thunder, you go alone. Be cautious and avoid offending any of the wolves."


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" General Thunder replied, unable to hide his excitement.


    The others looked on enviously, but with the Emperor''s decision made, they could say no more.


    Filled with excitement, General Thunder took to the sky, heading northward.


    With the little wolf leading, Zhong Shan stepped into the glowing valley.


    Entering the valley, Zhong Shan finally saw the source of the light.


    This was a peculiar valley, with a pond upying most of its expanse. The light emanated from the flowers surrounding the valley��glowing flowers, many of which grew underwater, making the entire pond shimmer with a beautiful, clear light.


    Flowers of various shapes and sizes filled the valley, their radiant glow apanied by a fragrance that instantly calmed Zhong Shan''s mind, making him feel incredibly rxed and at peace.


    The luminous flowers and the shimmering water created a scene that looked like a celestial paradise. asionally, a few dandelion-like glowing seeds floated by, adding to the dreamy and magical atmosphere.


    It was no wonder the little wolf loved this ce. Even Zhong Shan was awestruck by its beauty and splendor.


    Although Zhong Shan was somewhat mesmerized, he recognized the glowing flowers in the valley. They were recorded in the Rare Treasures Pavilion as "Luminous Hundred Flowers," a top-grade material of the fifth rank. These flowers were even more precious than his me Fruits.


    The Luminous Hundred Flowers grew from a single rhizome, producing a hundred different blooms. During the day, they absorbed light and at night, they glowed. Moreover, these flowers produced a unique dew that gathered in the center of a transparent flower. This dew, known as Hundred Flowers Dew, umted essence through the rhizome and fused into a single cup of dew, which had miraculous healing and rejuvenating properties. Remarkably, unless it was rainy weather, a cup of this dew could be collected daily.


    Upon entering the valley, Zhong Shan quickly spotted the transparent flower in a corner not far away.


    The little wolf led the way, walking over a long rhizome that stretched across the pond like a narrow bridge. It seemed to be showing Zhong Shan around its treasure trove, excitedly running ahead, then back to him, rubbing against him proudly as if boasting about its private sanctuary.


    However, perhaps due to the little wolf''s enthusiastic rubbing, Zhong Shan''s foot slipped, causing both him and the little wolf to slide.


    "Plop! Plop!"


    Man and wolf fell into the dreamlike pond, causing a great ssh. The little wolf seemed even more excited, frolicking joyfully in the water and letting out happy howls.


    Seeing the little wolf so thrilled, Zhong Shan scooped up some water and sshed it on the little wolf''s head. The little wolf, now drenched, eagerly sshed back with its small paws.


    Man and wolf engaged in a yful water fight, their excitement palpable.


    Meanwhile, General Thunder had flown to the site where the wolves had performed their magic, only to find them dispersing. The sky was no longer filled with fireworks, leaving him slightly disappointed. Yet, the sight of the gathered wolves left him deeply impressed.


    As he watched, a departing red wolf suddenly froze, turning to re at him with narrowed eyes.


    "Arroooo!"


    The wolf bared its teeth and howled fiercely, clearly unweing.


    General Thunder quickly nodded and retreated, not wanting to provoke the wolves. These wolves included many at the Nascent Soul stage. Though they chose not to fly, they could, and if they attacked en masse, not even the Emperor could save him.


    Sweating coldly, General Thunder retreated to a safer distance, where no wolves were present.


    Suddenly, he spotted a glowing valley in the distance. His eyes lit up with curiosity. What was that?


    Driven by his curiosity, General Thunder quickly flew towards the valley.


    From outside the valley, he saw the source of the light: numerous glowing flowers. The entire valley was filled with these radiant blooms. What kind of flowers were they?


    "Hahaha, hahaha!" A heartyugh echoed from within the valley.


    "Arrooo! Arrooo!" The little wolf''s excited howls followed.


    Hearing the wolf, General Thunder didn''t think much of it, but the heartyugh that followed made his pupils contract. A surge of familiarity washed over him, filling his heart.


    "Is that that pest? How fortuitous!" General Thunder thought, a malicious smile spreading across his face as he spotted Zhong Shan. "To find him here, of all ces."


    Using his spiritual sense, he saw Zhong Shan ying in the water with a young wolf that had just entered the innate stage. Seeing the normallyposed Zhong Shan acting like a child was both surprising and amusing to him.


    "This fool, ying with a beast like a child," General Thunder thought disdainfully. "At least there''s no danger."


    He began his descent slowly.


    "Hahaha, pest, we meet again!" General Thunder called out joyfully as hended.


    Hearing the unexpected voice, both Zhong Shan and the little wolf froze. Quickly, Zhong Shan retrieved hisrge saber, "Nightmare," and, grabbing the little wolf, tried to flee the valley.


    Recognizing the voice, Zhong Shan felt a pang of worry. He clutched the little wolf tightly as he attempted to escape.


    "Hmph!" General Thunder snorted coldly. The formidable aura of a Nascent Soul cultivator burst forth, overwhelming and pressing down on Zhong Shan and the little wolf without restraint.


    "Bang!"


    The oppressive force knocked Zhong Shan from his airborne stance, causing him to crash onto the shore of the pond. As he fell, he held the little wolf protectively to prevent it from getting hurt.


    "Hahaha, let''s see where you can run to today!" General Thunder eximed, feeling victorious and ted.


    "Roar!"


    The little wolf, sensing the hostility, quickly stood up, baring its teeth at General Thunder. Despite its small and weak stature, it tried to scare away the powerful adversary.


    "Hahaha, even this little beast dares to block me?" General Thunderughed heartily, finding the little wolf''s defiance amusing.


    With a flick of his hand, he sent a bolt of lightning straight at the little wolf.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan leaped, shielding the little wolf with his body.


    "Boom!"


    The lightning struck Zhong Shan''s back, sending sparks crackling and flying everywhere.

 Chapter 127: The Wolves Rush In

    <h4>Chapter 127: The Wolves Rush In</h4>


    General Thunder, being a Nascent Soul stage cultivator, wielded immense power even with a casual lightning strike. The energy of the lightning was overwhelming. Although Zhong Shan''s back bore the brunt of it, a significant portion still scattered around him, enveloping his entire body in a crackling electric field.


    The residual lightning struck the little wolf''s left leg.


    "Crackle... Crackle..."


    After the lightning dissipated, Zhong Shan''s clothes were charred ck. His higher cultivation level and past experiences had given him some immunity to electricity. However, the little wolf wasn''t as fortunate. Despite Zhong Shan shielding it from the worst of the strike, the little bit that hit its leg was enough to tear its skin and burn much of its fur.


    "Hahahahaha!" General Thunderughed maniacally. "This pest is so weak. Just a casual strike, and he''s already down."


    "Facing death, and you still think of protecting your pet? Just a newly tamed one at that? Hah! With your level of cultivation, you can only tame such small beasts. Hahaha!" General Thunder continued tough.


    The little wolf let out a heart-wrenching howl, sharp and piercing, reaching the heavens and echoing through the valley, spreading in all directions.


    Hearing the wolf''s continuous cries, General Thunder''s excitement grew. "A useless little beast, just like you were back then. A bit of pain, and it''s howling like this. Hahaha."


    The little wolf''s cries did not stop.


    In distant valleys, countless resting wolves heard the little wolf''s mournful howls. Their eyes snapped open, and they quickly stood. Hearing the call for help, they all rose without hesitation and ran swiftly towards the valley where the little wolf was.


    As they ran, their expressions grew increasingly furious, baring their teeth and snarling.


    "Arroooo!"


    Some of the wolves joined in the howl as they ran, waking even more wolves farther away. Regardless of what they were doing, they dropped everything and ran towards the little wolf''s valley at top speed.


    The sight of thousands of wolves running once more appeared, kicking up clouds of dust, their powerful strides echoing across the mountains. The howling continued to spread even further.


    Unaware of the impending situation, General Thunder thought the little wolf was merely terrified. His grin widened, showing his cruel satisfaction.


    In the distant valley where the Emperor of the Yin Moon Dynasty and his entourage waited, General Qingyun had returned.


    "How did it go?" the Emperor asked anxiously, his eyes fixed on General Qingyun.


    "Mission aplished. Congrattions, the Supreme One has agreed to meet you," General Qingyun said with a hint of a smile.


    "Thank you," the Emperor said, unable to hide his excitement. Even with his years of experience and steady demeanor, he trembled slightly at the news, his fists clenching tightly.


    Behind the Emperor, everyone except Mr. Corpse showed expressions of tion. They all felt a sense of triumph, as if the clouds had parted to reveal the moon.


    "Alright, prepare yourselves. We''ll go see the Supreme One immediately," General Qingyun instructed, nodding with a smile.


    "Yes, as soon as General Thunder returns, we''ll go together," the Emperor responded promptly.


    "Thunder? The person from before? Where did he go?" General Qingyun asked, puzzled.


    "Awoooo!"


    Suddenly, a sharp wolf howl echoed from the northern mountains, followed by more howls, each more urgent than thest.


    "Awoooo!"


    "Awoooo!"


    The Emperor Yanjing watched as countless wolves rushed towards the distance. What was happening? What could have caused such amotion?


    "This is bad!" General Qingyun suddenly cried out. He transformed into a fifty-meter-tall giant wolf, not even bothering to exin to the people of the Yin Moon Dynasty. With a fierce look in his eyes, he sprinted towards the distance.


    Seeing the direction, the Emperor''s heart tightened with an ominous feeling. No, it couldn''t be!


    Without hesitation, the Emperor took a step forward, leading his entourage as they quickly followed General Qingyun.


    In the valley of Guanglu Flowers, General Thunder raised his right hand, holding a ball of lightning that crackled with deadly arcs of electricity. It looked incredibly terrifying.


    Tears of pain streamed down the little wolf''s face as it stared hatefully at General Thunder above. Its eyes were filled with hatred.


    Zhong Shan, though his clothes were charred, stood protectively in front of the little wolf, brandishing his de at General Thunder.


    "Hahaha, such loyalty between master and pet. Let''s see if you can handle my Thunderstorm Orb. Reaching the seventh level of the Innate stage with your potential is impressive. But those who cross me never end well. So, die together with your beloved pet!" General Thunderughed maniacally, pushing the lightning ball towards Zhong Shan and the little wolf.


    "Awoooo!"


    The little wolf howled in despair behind Zhong Shan.


    Suddenly, a massive fireball shot in from a distance, smashing into the lightning ball with a thunderous crash.


    "Boom!"


    General Thunder was taken aback, looking in the direction from which the fireball hade.


    In the distance, atop a distant peak, a gigantic red wolf, thirty meters tall, charged forward, crushing a massive boulder under its paws as it leaped down, fury in its eyes directed at General Thunder.


    "Boom!"


    With another thunderous crash, the huge red wolfnded in front of General Thunder, who quickly retreated in shock at the sudden appearance of the giant wolf.


    The red wolf positioned itself between Zhong Shan and General Thunder, only then seeming to rx slightly.


    "Awoooo!"


    The red wolf howled towards the sky, its cry piercing the heavens and echoing for miles.


    "Awooo... Awooo..."


    More and more wolves joined in the howling from all directions.


    General Thunder stared at the giant wolf, his eyes shing with surprise. His heart sank with a sudden sense of impending doom, a feeling so intense that it made his hair stand on end despite his Nascent Soul cultivation.


    "Grrrr..."


    The red wolf bared its fangs at General Thunder, looking as if it wanted to tear him apart.


    General Thunder felt an overwhelming sense of danger and had only one thought: run, and run fast. But just as he began to lift off the ground, a sudden and deafening series of thuds resounded.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    From all directions, a massive number of wolves leaped into the valley, their numbers swelling by the second. In an instant, over five hundred wolves had gathered, fifty of which were enormous, standing thirty meters tall.


    Fifty Nascent Soul level wolves? General Thunder felt a cold chill down his spine.


    The wolves bared their teeth at General Thunder, their eyes filled with fierce hostility. As he tried to ascend a little further, ten of the massive wolvesunched white-hot fireballs at him.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Despite his full defensive efforts, the fireballs left him charred and ckened, serving as a clear warning: he was not to leave. Each wolf disyed its sharp fangs, emphasizing the message.


    In this tense moment, the small wolf, limping, managed to climb onto the head of the giant red wolf in front of General Thunder. Seeing the injured little wolf, the assembled wolves erupted into enraged howls. The fact that the little wolf, evidently important in this territory, had been harmed was unforgivable. The wolves'' collective fury suggested that they would have torn General Thunder apart if it weren''t for their restraint, seemingly waiting for the little wolf to give the final order.


    General Thunder''s eyes filled with a sudden, deep sadness. How could he have known this little wolf held such immense importance? If he had known, he would never have dared to harm it.


    The little wolf, with tears still in its eyes, stared at General Thunder with a hatred so intense it seemed to burn.


    "Boom!"


    A fifty-meter-tall giant green wolf, General Qingyun, leapt into the valley. The other wolves made way, showing their respect and indicating Qingyun''s high status among them. They retreated to stand beside and behind the little wolf, but their fierce res at General Thunder remained, undiminished.


    The little wolf barked angrily at General Thunder.


    In wolfnguage, itmanded: "Kill him! Kill him! He tried to kill Xianxian!"


    At the little wolf''smand, the surrounding wolves opened their mouths, preparing to unleash massive bursts of energy towards General Thunder.


    Seeing the impending attack, General Thunder shivered and quickly moved closer to General Qingyun, hoping for some semnce of protection from the wolf he recognized.


    "Qingyun, save me! I didn''t know the little wolf was so important. Spare me, please!" General Thunder pleaded, his voice trembling.


    General Qingyun looked down at General Thunder with a mixture of disappointment and anger. He then turned to the little wolf, awaiting its decision. The little wolf''s eyes burned with a deep-seated hatred as it gazed at General Thunder, clearly indicating that it wanted justice for the wrong done to it.


    "Qingyun, I... I can exin," General Thunder stammered, but it was clear that exnations would not suffice.


    The little wolf barked again, its message clear: "No mercy."


    General Qingyun let out a growl, and the wolves around him prepared to strike, their energy focused and ready to be unleashed upon General Thunder.

 Chapter 128: An Empty Plot

    <h4>Chapter 128: An Empty Plot</h4>


    General Qingyun rushed over, filled with anger and disbelief. The cry for help was from the Young Lord, the second most esteemed figure in the entire wolf n, next only to the Supreme Lord. Someone dared to bully the Young Lord within the wolf domain? And even tried to kill him? Such audacity meant only one thing: death!


    Filled with rage, General Qingyun sped towards the source of the cry, soon arriving at the scene. He saw the pitiful sight of the Young Lord, tears still wet, dragging a scorched hind leg, painfully climbing onto arge wolf''s head. Opposite stood the perpetrator, who upon closer look, was revealed to be from the Yin Moon Dynasty.


    The young wolf growled, "Kill him, Uncle Qingyun. He tried to kill Xianxian."


    At thismand, the wolves around opened their mouths, preparing tounch energy balls.


    "Wait!" General Qingyunmanded urgently.


    The wolves hesitated, their mouths still open, energy balls ready to be unleashed. Clearly, General Qingyun held significant authority among them.


    In wolfnguage, the young wolf cried, "Uncle Qingyun, he tried to kill Xianxian. Xianxian almost died. Kill him, kill him!"


    The young wolf continued to wail as General Qingyun, in a sh, transformed back into a green-robed man and flew to the young wolf''s side, his eyes filled with wrath as he inspected the scorched leg.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan appeared, carrying a flower, rushing from therge wolf''s back to the young wolf''s side.


    General Qingyun red at Zhong Shan, his eyebrows furrowed, sensing something unique about him.


    "Drink this," Zhong Shan said, handing over the collected dew from the flower.


    The young wolf nced at Zhong Shan and immediately began to drink, clearly aware of what it was.


    General Qingyun quickly emitted a green light, gently enveloping the young wolf''s injured leg.


    Soon, the young wolf was healed, the previously scorched leg appearing fully recovered, though the fur would take some time to regrow.


    Once recovered, the young wolf red hatefully at General Leiting.


    At that moment, General Leiting finally realized the magnitude of his blunder. This mistake was so grave that even his death couldn''t amend it.


    "Huff, huff..."


    The number of wolves continued to grow, now numbering over ten thousand, all with fierce and hostile expressions.


    By then, the Emperor of the Yin Moon Dynasty and his entourage had arrived, following General Qingyun. The wolves didn''t hinder them much due to General Qingyun''s presence. As the Emperor approached the scene, his heart sank, a chilling fear gripping him.


    Then, an overwhelming anger surged within him. Leiting? Did he cause this disaster?


    Ten thousand wolves, all ring at Leiting with murderous intent. What had he done to provoke such a massive cmity?


    "Woof, woof," the young wolf on arge wolf''s head continued to cry to General Qingyun.


    In wolfnguage, the young wolf said, "Uncle Qingyun, he tried to kill Xianxian. Xianxian nearly died."


    Hearing this, General Qingyun''s eyes shed with murderous intent as he red at General Leiting, ready to execute the young wolf''smand. The air was thick with tension, as if a singlemand would unleash a barrage of energy balls at General Leiting.


    The Emperor of the Yin Moon Dynasty, witnessing this, was filled with helplessness and fury, realizing that this disaster had spiraled out of control.


    General Qingyun turned his head sharply, ring at Leiting, his eyes filled with rage. The surrounding wolves had energy balls in their mouths, ready to st Leiting into pieces.


    The Emperor slowly descended in front of General Leiting, ring at him.


    "Liudao, your man tried to kill the Young Lord of my wolf n. Unforgivable," General Qingyun shouted angrily.


    Hearing General Qingyun''s words, the Emperor felt his scalp tingle with fear, while General Leiting felt deeply wronged.


    "What is going on?" Emperor Liudao demanded of General Leiting.


    "Your Majesty, I was only trying to kill that man, but I identally injured the little wolf," General Leiting quickly pointed to Zhong Shan, who stood atop therge wolf.


    At his words, many wolves turned their gaze towards Zhong Shan, their eyes showing hostility, as if realizing that the Young Lord''s crisis was due to him.


    Therge wolf beneath Zhong Shan immediately growled a few times, tranting General Leiting''s words into wolfnguage.


    Upon hearing this, the young wolf grew anxious, quickly growling back.


    Wolfnguage: "No, no! He''s a bad guy. If the ''good man'' hadn''t saved me, I would have been killed by him. This bad guy is lying. Kill him, kill this bad guy."


    The wolves that had been looking at Zhong Shan with hostility suddenly softened their gaze. Realizing he had saved the Young Lord, their attention turned back to General Leiting, their eyes filled with killing intent.


    In the wolf domain, anyone who tried to kill the Young Lord would face death��a thousand deaths wouldn''t suffice.


    "The Young Lord says he saved him; otherwise, the Young Lord would have died at your hands," General Qingyun said coldly.


    "Your Majesty, no! I didn''t�� I was just trying to kill that man. I was only following your orders to kill him," General Leiting said in terror.


    The Young Lord? It turned out to be the Young Lord of the wolf n? At this moment, even General Leiting, no matter how foolish, understood that he had stirred up a ho''s nest��one that could sting him to death.


    "General Qingyun, Leiting is a member of the Yin Moon Dynasty. I must take him back," Emperor Liudao said, his tone filled with helplessness.


    Hearing Liudao''s words, General Leiting looked at the Emperor in disbelief, his eyes filled with surprise and shame. General Leiting knew why Liudao hade to the wolf domain. Was he willing to give up this opportunity to save him?


    General Leiting had thought the Emperor would abandon him to save the greater cause, but the Emperor''s decision to protect him filled him with gratitude.


    The people beside the Emperor also looked at him, their eyes reflecting surprise and respect. This decision strengthened their loyalty to the Emperor.


    For the Emperor, it was a helpless move. At this point, abandoning General Leiting would certainly lose him the loyalty of his ministers. As for the Supreme Lord of the wolf n, after this incident, the hope was slim.


    Meanwhile, Mr. Corpse had been watching Zhong Shan from a distance, his eyes gradually narrowing with a hint of admiration and expectation. He paid little attention to the Emperor''s efforts to gather loyalty.


    General Qingyun looked at Liudao, his eyes filled with coldness.


    "Go, leave now!" General Qingyun ordered.


    Hearing General Qingyun''s words, many of the wolves who understood wolfnguage red angrily at him.


    Therge wolf beneath Zhong Shan also growled, clearly tranting General Qingyun''s words to the young wolf.


    Upon hearing the trantion, the young wolf jumped up, growling furiously.


    Wolfnguage: "Uncle Qingyun, he bullied Xianxian. You must kill him to avenge Xianxian!"


    General Qingyun turned, looking at the young wolf with some difficulty, growling back to him in wolfnguage.


    Wolfnguage: "Xianxian, just this once, Uncle Qingyun owes that man a great favor. I''ll let him go, just this once. Later, Uncle Qingyun will let you bully him as you please. If you want to burn Uncle Qingyun''s hair, Uncle Qingyun will let you. I won''t hide anymore, okay?"


    Wolfnguage: "No, no! Uncle Qingyun doesn''t like Xianxian anymore. This man tried to kill Xianxian. Xianxian almost died just now."


    The young wolf continued to jump anxiously, sounding very aggrieved.


    Hearing the young wolf''s cries, the surrounding wolves growled fiercely.


    "Growl, growl, growl..." The wolves red fiercely at the group.


    "Let''s go!" General Qingyun shouted, leading the way with the people from the Yin Moon Dynasty. Emperor Liudao followed closely behind with his entourage, while General Leiting''s face flushed red with shame.


    The young wolf atop therge wolf''s head jumped anxiously, extremely annoyed, and the other wolves were equally furious, with many of them closely following. However, General Qingyun remained protective of the group, preventing the other wolves from attacking.


    The Young Lord had been bullied by a group of people, and now they wanted to leave arrogantly?


    If it weren''t for General Qingyun''s authority, the wolves would have attacked long ago.


    General Qingyun was also extremely angry, swiftly flying westward with the group.


    Gradually, the number of wolves chasing them dwindled until they were far away and no wolves pursued them.


    No one spoke along the way, and General Leiting was filled with shame and embarrassment, an infinite sense of suffocation filling his chest.


    When they reached the outskirts, General Qingyun suddenly stared at Emperor Liudao.


    Taking a deep breath, Liudao frowned. "Qingyun, I''m really sorry about this. As for the Supreme Lord..."


    "The Supreme Lord? Don''t even think about it. Offending the Young Lord this time, even if the Heavenly Emperor came here, he wouldn''t get the Supreme Lord''s approval. The fact that the Supreme Lord didn''te after you is already the greatest grace. I told you not to go north before, but you didn''t listen. Today, the Young Lord almost died at your hands. If it were anyone else, I would have obliterated them. Today, I went against my principles to save you, which offsets your favor. After today, we owe each other nothing." General Qingyun said angrily.


    Finishing his words, General Qingyun transformed into a fifty-meter giant wolf, and with a stomp, he dashed rapidly eastward.


    Watching General Qingyun leave, Emperor Liudao reached out as if to stop him, feeling a sense of loss. This trip to the wolf domain was about to seed��it was so close, but in the end, it all fell apart,pletely ruined.


    Why? Why did it have to end like this?


    Meanwhile, General Leiting quickly knelt on the ground, feeling extremely ashamed. "I deserve ten thousand deaths," he said.

 Chapter 129: Supreme of the Wolf Clan

    <h4>Chapter 129: Supreme of the Wolf n</h4>


    "I deserve ten thousand deaths," General Leiting knelt on the ground, ashamed. At the same time, he harbored deep hatred towards Zhongshan. If it weren''t for that man, would he have made such a huge mistake? It was all because of him, all because of him.


    Emperor Liudao felt somewhat helpless as he turned to look at the kneeling General Leiting, a sh of resentment crossing his face. If it weren''t for Leiting, would his n have failed?


    Life takes unexpected turns, significant ones. This time it had been missed. Who knows when the next opportunity wille?


    Watching General Leiting, the Emperor took a few deep breaths to suppress the anger in his chest. "It''s not all your fault. If I hadn''t ordered you to go north, this wouldn''t have happened."


    "Speaking of which, me that man. Not only did he not die at the Scorpion Eggst time, but this time he also caused General Leiting to make such a big mistake. It''s all because of him. If it weren''t for him, Your Majesty''s great n wouldn''t have been ruined?" One of the people behind Emperor Liudao immediately spoke up.


    "Yes, it''s that man. He deserves ten thousand deaths," others chimed in, clearly ming General Leiting.


    Taking a deep breath, the Emperor looked at the people and then at General Leiting, a hint of resentment shing in his eyes.


    "Leiting," the Emperor called out, his voice firm.


    "Yes," General Leiting immediately responded.


    "This man is extremely guilty. This failure was all caused by him. I order you to pursue and kill him. Perform meritorious deeds by killing him. If he is not dead, you are not allowed to return to the court." The Emperormanded.


    Clearly, they needed a scapegoat now, and Zhongshan happened to be the target of their wrath.


    "Yes," General Leiting immediately acknowledged. Obviously, his hatred towards Zhongshan had reached its peak.


    On the side, Mr. Shi had been observing coldly. When he heard that the Emperor wanted General Leiting to pursue and kill Zhongshan, Mr. Shi showed no concern, only anticipation, as if he looked forward to Zhongshan being chased and then somehow oveing the danger.


    "Back to the court," Liudao said again.


    "Yes," everyone responded.


    Then, General Leiting was left alone. The others followed Liudao and quickly flew towards the Yin Moon Dynasty in the north.


    General Leiting watched the direction in which the Emperor left, clenched his fists, a resolute expression on his face. He must kill Zhongshan to repay the Emperor''s kindness.


    But now, General Leiting didn''t dare to go to the Wolf Domain. Did he want to die?


    However, General Leiting had already guessed Zhongshan''s identity. He had seen him before, from the Kaiyang Sect? Was he going to hide in the Wolf Domain forever and nevere out? Humph��


    Qingyun Wolf General quickly ran towards the original valley.


    His speed was extremely fast. When he arrived at the valley again, it was already dawn. However, outside the valley, the wolves had not dispersed but instead seemed to be increasing in number.


    Countless wolves were prostrating themselves on the ground, looking extremely humble as they gazed at therge wolf kneeling in all directions. Qingyun Wolf General immediately understood what was going on.


    The Supreme had arrived.


    Qingyun Wolf General transformed into human form and flew towards the valley.


    All therge wolves stopped at the outskirts of the valley, even the one that had been stepped on by the young wolf earlier came out of the valley and crawled on the ground.


    Qingyun Wolf General quickly entered the valley.


    Inside the valley, besides the young wolf and Zhongshan, there was also a man in white robes.


    The man in white robes appeared to be about fifty years old, with white hair cascading loosely behind his head, tied up unlike the sad green silk. Unlike thetter, the man''s eyebrows were ck.


    Standing there, the man seemed almost non-existent, giving off a peculiar sensation as if he was seamlessly integrated with the surroundings, a fusion of heaven and earth. One could easily overlook him, even if they turned their heads, it was as if they would forget about him entirely.


    At this moment, the young wolf was no longer by Zhongshan''s side but went to the man''s feet, continuously nuzzling the cuff of his pants.


    The man looked at Zhongshan with a serious expression, his hands behind his back, as if scrutinizing Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan stood quietly in front of the man.


    Zhongshan wasn''t unable to speak, but rather couldn''t bring himself to. The man in front of him didn''t release any oppressive aura, but when Zhongshan saw the man''s eyes, he suddenly felt a soul-stirring sensation. It was as if those deep, watery eyes sucked in his consciousness, and he felt his soul shaking in his body, as if it could be sucked into the man''s eyes at any moment.


    Just one nce was already unbearable for Zhongshan. This feeling was as if time had stopped. Looking into those eyes, it was as if the entire world had ceased to function.


    It wasn''t until the man''s gaze turned to the young wolf at his feet that Zhongshan finally breathed a sigh of relief, his body covered in cold sweat.


    The man looked back at Zhongshan, a faint smile appearing on his lips. "Little guy, you''re really lucky!"


    "Senior is too kind," Zhongshan immediately replied, not daring to look at the man too much.


    "Do you know who I am?" the man asked Zhongshan, his bright eyes seeming to see through Zhongshan.


    "Senior is the leader of the Wolf n," Zhongshan immediately voiced his guess. At this moment, Zhongshan didn''t hide anything.


    With a gentle smile, the man showed a hint of appreciation. "The Wolf n Covenant isn''t something anyone can sign. Do you understand?"


    "I don''t know," Zhongshan immediately replied.


    "Oh?" The man looked surprised for a moment.


    Zhongshan furrowed his brows in confusion.


    Seeing Zhongshan, knowing that he wasn''t lying, the man sighed slightly. "It''s really fortunate to be ignorant. Fairy ced the ''Root Contract'' into you. It''s probably fate."


    "Senior, what is the Wolf n Covenant? What is the Root Contract?" Zhongshan asked respectfully.


    Looking at Zhongshan, who had received such great benefits but still didn''t know, the man sighed softly.


    "Well, if you can''t reach the Nascent Soul stage, you''ll have only over three hundred years. If you can, then my Wolf n is willing to form a covenant with you. However, you must establish a dynasty, with the Wolf n as the national beast, and share the fortune of heaven and earth," the man said after some thought.


    Upon hearing this, Zhongshan, though still unsure of what was happening, realized the tremendous benefits involved. It was a colossal opportunity. Now was the time to y his cards.


    "Senior, rest assured, I have already established a dynasty, although it has only been a short time," Zhongshan immediately dered.


    "Oh?" The man was slightly surprised. He stared at Zhongshan for a while, then asked again after a moment, "What about the national object? Could it be the Coronation of the Gods? No, with your cultivation level, establishing a country is already good enough. What national object?"


    Shaking his head, the man seemed to think that Zhongshan''s expectations were too high.


    "Senior, I have established the ''Dajing Dynasty.'' The national object is the ''Heavenly Seal'' cast from the ''Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade,'' and the coronation object is the ''Seal of the Gods'' made by the ''Nine-Colored Dragon Silkworm,''" Zhongshan immediately replied.


    Because Zhongshan had heard of a great benefit, a big cake was right in front of him. He had to have a big enough appetite to eat it. If he didn''t have such a big appetite, he wouldn''t be able to eat it, and others wouldn''t give it to him either.


    "Oh?" The man looked at Zhongshan with some surprise, a hint of amazement shing in his eyes.


    Both of these were precious treasures of heaven and earth. For such a small cultivator, he actually had both of them?


    "Is that so?" the man asked, clearly curious about this insignificant figure.


    "Absolutely true. The Dajing Dynasty is right here on Tiang Ind," Zhongshan immediately replied.


    The man scrutinized Zhongshan carefully, while Zhongshan stood up straight.


    "Wuwu," the little wolf whimpered at the man''s feet, looking adorable.


    Meanwhile, Qingyun Wolf General alsonded in the valley, quickly kneeling on one knee.


    "Supreme One," Qingyun Wolf General bowed on the ground.


    Turning his head to look at Qingyun Wolf General, the man furrowed his brows slightly. "Have those people left?"


    "Yes, I''m guilty, please punish me, Supreme One," Qingyun Wolf General immediately said.


    However, the man ignored Qingyun Wolf General and looked at Zhongshan instead.


    "Do you know who it is?" the Wolf n Supreme pointed to the little wolf at his feet and asked.


    The little wolf, seeing the Supreme One pointing at itself, immediately stood up.


    "It''s the Young Master of the Wolf n," Zhongshan nodded.


    "Why do all the wolves listen to it?" the Supreme One asked.


    "Because of Senior''s influence," Zhongshan replied immediately.


    "No, even without me, all the wolves would still follow itsmands to their deaths," the Supreme One smiled faintly.


    "Huh?" Zhongshan looked at the Supreme One with a puzzled frown.


    "It''s because, besides me, it''s the second wolf to possess the original bloodline of the Wolf n. With the original bloodline, the Wolf n will prosper forever. It''s also the only wolf besides me who can sign a covenant with humans, the most respected wolf in the world," the Supreme One exined.


    Looking at the little wolf in front of him, Zhongshan''s heart was filled with excitement. Meeting this little wolf was truly a stroke of luck. Signing a covenant with the Wolf n? Yes, if it hadn''t already been signed, why wouldn''t the Wolf n attack me?


    "Let''s go, to your so-called Dajing Dynasty. If it''s really as you said, then I will sign the Root Contract that Fairy gave you. From now on, you can summon the Wolf n to serve you," the Supreme One said.


    Summon the Wolf n to serve you?


    Summon the Wolf n to serve you?


    These words echoed in Zhongshan''s mind. At this moment, Zhongshan felt as if he had been stunned by happiness. Summon the Wolf n? Could he summon an army of wolves?


    "Yes!" Zhongshan eximed excitedly.


    With a flip of his hand, a white cloud appeared under his feet, carrying Zhongshan, the Supreme One, the little wolf, and Qingyun Wolf General who was still kneeling.


    "You indicate the direction," the Supreme One said.


    "Yes," Zhongshan immediately responded, pointing in a direction.


    The white cloud carried everyone, appearing in an instant at the location Zhongshan pointed to. It seemed like they hadn''t flown at all but had suddenly arrived there. Zhongshan was stunned. He didn''t feel the flight; they just came over like this?


    "Point again," the Supreme One said again.


    "Yes," Zhongshan immediately pointed in the distance, guiding the Supreme One.


    Zhongshan knew that a great opportunity wasing, and he had to seize it. Qingyun Wolf General, who had been kneeling beside him, had never stood up, still kneeling. The little wolf, on the other hand, was bouncing around, as if it knew what was going to happen next, rubbing its head against the Supreme One, then bouncing to Zhongshan and rubbing its head against him.

 Chapter 130: Heaven and Earth, Summoning

    <h4>Chapter 130: Heaven and Earth, Summoning</h4>


    Inside the Changsheng Hall of the Dajing Dynasty.


    The morning court was in session, with hundreds of officials standing in two rows, civil and military.


    At this moment, General Ying Lan walked to the center.


    "Your Majesty, the remnants of the Great Kun Kingdom have been eradicated, and the Dajing Kingdom is now stable. I ask for your permission to pacify the five kingdoms and establish the prosperity of the Dajing Dynasty," Ying Lan said ording to protocol.


    Sitting on the throne, Zhongshan, with his hidden identity, looked at Ying Lan and smiled slightly. "The Dajing Dynasty has just stabilized, and the hearts of the people are still uncertain. Let''s take some time to build up our forces and nurture the people."


    "But..." Ying Lan immediately eximed.


    At that moment, Zhongshan, seated on the throne, suddenly frowned and looked outside the hall.


    "Dismissed," Zhongshan said immediately.


    Dismissed? All the courtiers looked at Zhongshan in astonishment. What was happening? How could he dismiss the court just like that, without any warning?


    Everyone felt as if they had misheard.


    "Ying Lan, heed mymand," Zhongshan suddenly called out.


    "Here," Ying Lan responded respectfully. Though he didn''t know what was happening, he could tell from his uncle''s sudden change in demeanor that something significant was urring.


    "Lead all the Forbidden Army to guard the Imperial City. Anyone who dares to enter must be killed," Zhongshan quickly ordered, rising from his seat.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, everyone was taken aback, wondering what had happened to the emperor.


    "Yes," Ying Lan immediately obeyed.


    Then, the courtiers filed out of the hall, and Ying Lan organized the Forbidden Army to guard the newly constructed Imperial City.


    With the hall empty, Zhongshan sat on the throne. With a flip of his hand, he took out the Fangtian Jade Seal and the Scroll of Gods, cing them in a hiddenpartment. After some thought, he cut his hand, leaving a bowl of blood. Then, he nced around, his figure swaying slightly as he turned into a shadow and sank into the ground, swiftly speeding towards a certain direction, far away from the Changsheng Hall.


    Two hourster, within the Imperial City, there was silence. Everyone had been arranged to leave the city, even Wei Taizhong, Zhongzheng, and other close confidants of the emperor, who were now waiting outside the city with puzzled expressions, wondering what the emperor was up to.


    Outside the Imperial City, as Ying Lan continued her patrol, all the generals couldn''t help but show their admiration when they saw this female general. Ying Lan, themander of the Second Legion of the Dajing Dynasty, not only had her military rank but also demonstrated her abilities during hermand this past year, which were no less than those of Lin Xiao, themander of the First Legion.


    After Ying Lan finished her inspection and arrived at the South Gate, she coincidentally encountered Wei Taizhong leading a group of eunuchs waiting outside the pce.


    Seeing Ying Lan approaching, Wei Taizhong''s previously worried expression suddenly turned into a gentle smile.


    "General Ying Lan," Wei Taizhong immediately greeted her.


    "Oh, Senior Wei?" Ying Lan looked a little surprised. After more than a year of getting to know each other, Ying Lan could also see Wei Taizhong''s goodwill towards her, especially his goodwill towards her.


    "General Ying Lan, the Wan Nian Red Coral Screen you mentionedst time has been arranged. It can be delivered to your residence at your convenience," Wei Taizhong said kindly.


    "Really? Thank you so much, Senior Wei," Ying Lan said happily.


    Seeing Ying Lan''s joy, Wei Taizhong also showed a satisfied smile. As long as Ying Lan was happy, everything was worth it.


    During the conversation between Enn and Wei Taizhong, suddenly three men and a wolf appeared out of nowhere in the Longevity Hall of the Great Loong Dynasty. Leading them was Zhongshan, apanied by the Wolf n Supreme, the Blue Cloud Wolf General, and the little wolf, Xianxian.


    Upon arriving at the Longevity Hall, the Blue Cloud Wolf General remained kneeling, showing no intention of rising. Zhongshan swiftly approached a hiddenpartment, first storing a vial of blood in a storage bracelet before retrieving the Square Heaven Jade Seal and the Divine Decree. He kept the Square Heaven Jade Seal and held onto the Divine Decree.


    The Wolf n Supreme nced around and then turned to Zhongshan.


    "How have you arranged your subordinates?" The Wolf n Supreme asked with slight surprise, noting that the people outside the imperial city seemed to have just left. What was going on?


    "Forgive me, senior. This is a secret method I have to ensure my safety," Zhongshan replied, neither denying nor revealing the existence of the hidden body.


    "Oh?" The Wolf n Supreme looked at Zhongshan with increasing interest.


    "Senior, please take a look at the Divine Decree," Zhongshan said.


    Zhongshan slowly unfolded the Divine Decree, revealing the colorful cloud patterns to the Wolf n Supreme.


    As the Divine Decree unfolded, the Wolf n Supreme fixed his gaze on Zhongshan''s name.


    "Zhongshan? Huh?" The Wolf n Supreme read Zhongshan''s name and was suddenly surprised.


    "Is this your seal?" The Wolf n Supreme asked, somewhat astonished, as he looked at therge seal.


    "Entrusted by heaven, shall live long and prosper!" Eight characters froze the expression of the Wolf n Supreme.


    Zhongshan looked at the Wolf n Supreme with slight confusion.


    "Great Loong, clearly just a dynasty, so why does your jade seal bear the imprint of an empire? No, no. Your courtiers are weak, and the fortune of the imperial city is meager. How could it be the seal of an empire? Why does this seal emit the aura of an empire?" The Wolf n Supreme said, puzzled, as he gazed at therge seal.


    Hearing the Wolf n Supreme''s words, Zhongshan''s eyes lit up slightly as he immediately thought of the Nine Dragons Seizing Pearl on the Square Heaven Jade Seal. That red bead that brought him here must be the cause.


    "Let me see your Square Heaven Jade Seal," the Wolf n Supreme said to Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan shook his head slightly. "The Square Heaven Jade Seal is a symbol of the dynasty. Besides me, no one else can touch it."


    The Wolf n Supreme was slightly surprised.


    "Hahaha." The Wolf n Supreme suddenly burst intoughter.


    "Alright, I won''t take a look. I look forward to your Great Loong Dynasty," the Wolf n Supreme said with a hearty smile.


    Hearing the Wolf n Supreme''s words, Zhongshan breathed a sigh of relief. He had been nervous just now.


    The Wolf n Supreme became increasingly interested in Zhongshan. Initially, when he saw Zhongshan''s root bone, he was somewhat dissatisfied. However, since Xianxian had bestowed the seed, he naturally had to fulfill his promise. Moreover, Zhongshan had saved Xianxian''s life.


    During the assessment of Zhongshan, the Wolf n Supreme found that despite Zhongshan''s extremely poor cultivation, he always managed to surprise him. There was something peculiar about him that even he couldn''t understand. However, not understanding was fine. It was even better to have some mystery.


    "Yes, senior," Zhongshan said.


    "Do you know the purpose of the Wolf n Covenant?" the Wolf n Supreme asked.


    "I don''t know, senior," Zhongshan replied.


    "Establish it first," the Wolf n Supreme said with a smile.


    With a wave of his hand, a huge scroll suddenly appeared in midair. It was shaped somewhat like the Divine Decree butcked its splendor. The scroll was translucent and floated in front of Zhongshan, exuding a mysterious aura.


    On the back of the scroll were fiverge characters.


    Wolf n Covenant.


    The five characters were extremely peculiar, with three rows of text on the front. The first row read: "Yutang, Kong Deming." The second row: "Yuan, Huang Jian." The third row: "Zuo, Ruyi." Each row was inscribed with strange red characters, resembling the name of a country at the top and a name below, with arge seal imprint over each name. The colors of the three names looked like blood inscriptions.


    "Establishing a covenant; the upper part is the name of the country, and the lower part is the name, with a seal imprint," the Supreme Wolf n said.


    "Is this an established covenant?" Zhongshan asked, taking a deep breath.


    "Yes, these three, tens of thousands of years ago, signed a covenant with the Wolf n, and eventually all became celestial dynasties, namely the Yutang Celestial Dynasty, the Great Yuan Celestial Dynasty, and the Great Zuo Celestial Dynasty. However, time leaves no trace, and everything turns to nothingness. Only my Wolf n still exists," the Supreme Wolf n exined.


    Zhongshan took a deep breath upon hearing this, while Xianxian, the little wolf beside him, kept nudging him as if urging him to hurry.


    Zhongshan quickly pricked his finger, letting his blood mix with the hidden body''s blood, and then began to write on it.


    Guo, Zhongshan.


    In the fourth row: Guo, Zhongshan.


    In a flick of his hand, Zhongshan took out the Square Heaven Jade Seal and pressed it on top, but his palm covered the dragon pearl on it.


    The Square Heaven Jade Seal didn''t need ink; it seemed as if its ink was gathered fortune.


    "Boom!"


    When the jade seal touched the Wolf n Covenant, a loud noise erupted, shaking the sky above the imperial city as if thunder had struck the ground.


    "Boom!"


    Everyone looked up in horror, not knowing what had happened.


    Zhongshan sealed the document with therge seal and then put it away. On the Wolf n Covenant, there was a crimson seal, much redder than the other three, even brighter than the characters Zhongshan had written with his blood.


    Seeing the seal, the Supreme Wolf n became increasingly astonished. What kind of jade seal was this?


    At that moment, Zhongshan suddenly felt as if his body had connected with something.


    Taking a deep breath, the Supreme Wolf n looked at Zhongshan with slight surprise, then waved his hand and collected the rolled-up Wolf n Covenant.


    "How does it feel?" the Supreme Wolf n asked with a gentle smile.


    "It''s a strange feeling, as if my spirit is connected to something," Zhongshan said softly, taking out the Divine Decree. On the Divine Decree, after the crown prince''s name, another row of text appeared.


    National Beast: Wolf.


    Satisfied with what Zhongshan had done, the Supreme Wolf n nodded gently.


    With a gentle touch, the Supreme Wolf n pointed his finger, emitting a green light directly at Zhongshan.


    Seeing the green light, Zhongshan reached out and grasped it. The light suddenly disappeared into his palm, and Zhongshan closed his eyes.


    When he opened his eyes again, Zhongshan''s face showed a look of horror, then he respectfully said to the Supreme Wolf n, "Thank you, Supreme."


    "Don''t you want to give it a try?" the Supreme Wolf n asked with a smile.


    "Yes," Zhongshan nodded, putting away the Divine Decree.


    Walking to the center of the hall, Zhongshan''s right palm trembled slightly as he forced out a drop of blood.


    Quickly, Zhongshan pressed his right palm against the ground and suddenly eximed, "Heaven and Earth, summoning!"

 Chapter 131: Imperial Wolf Summoning

    <h4>Chapter 131: Imperial Wolf Summoning</h4>


    "Heaven and Earth, summoning!"


    Zhongshan shouted loudly, and his internal true essence seemed to suddenly lose control, crazily pouring into the blood essence in his palm. The blood essence, infused with the true essence, seemed to undergo a drastic change, aligning with his incantation and the mysterious method imparted by the Supreme.


    That single drop of blood essence suddenly expanded, quickly transforming into nine ck wolf-headed smoke pirs, which shot rapidly towards the four directions of the earth. It seemed as though nine ck wolves sprang from Zhongshan''s palm.


    Zhongshan felt the space beneath his palm twist. Then, he suddenly touched something��a furry object��that emerged from the distorted space, instantly dispersing the nine ck wolf-headed smoke pirs, scattering them away.


    The surroundings were momentarily shrouded in the smoke waves dispersed by the nine wolf-headed smoke pirs, but it quickly cleared. At that moment, a giant red wolf, three meters tall, appeared out of nowhere in the hall.


    The red wolf appeared suddenly, seemingly out of thin air. After a brief moment of confusion, it looked around and, upon seeing the Supreme, immediately prostrated itself on the ground, disying utmost humility.


    Zhongshan felt a third of his true essence suddenly disappear. However, the expenditure of a third of his essence brought forth an assistant of equivalent strength, making it highly worthwhile.


    The Supreme nced at the newly appeared red wolf and smiled slightly before looking at Zhongshan, "At your peak, a third of your true essence can summon the nearest wolf tribe member with a strength not much different from yours. As long as it isn''t a situation of certain death, they will aid you. If you use all your true essence, you can summon a wolf tribe member one level higher than you, for instance, if you are at the seventh level of the innate stage, you can summon a wolf at the seventh level of the golden core stage. If you sacrifice all your lifespan, you can summon a wolf tribe member at least two levels higher than you."


    Zhongshan felt immense awe and looked at the prostrated three-meter-tall red wolf in front of him, his eyes filled with excitement.


    "Of course, in a life-or-death situation, how much the summoned wolf tribe member will do for you depends on your bond with them. You can specifically summon a familiar wolf tribe member. If you have a specific target, you can instantly summon them to your side, no matter where they are," the Supreme exined.


    "If I be familiar with General Qingyun Wolf, can I specifically summon him?" Zhongshan immediately asked.


    "Oh? Do you want to summon a wolf tribe member two levels higher than you without sacrificing your lifespan?" The Supreme looked at Zhongshan in surprise.


    "Indeed, in life-or-death situations, one must do what is necessary," Zhongshan replied, looking at the Supreme.


    "Hahaha, you are truly greedy, young one. Yes, a human emperor should be like this. You can specifically summon powerful wolf tribe members, even me. If you summon a specific wolf, we will sense it. However, whether wee or not is our decision. Without sacrificing your lifespan, we need to expend a third of our energy to be transported to you. Do you think we would do that?" The Supreme looked at Zhongshan with a smile.


    "Thank you," Zhongshan said sincerely.


    Indeed, having this possibility made everything worthwhile.


    "Since the wolf tribe has be the national beast of the Empire of Zhong, every year, the wolf tribe will send many wolves to serve you. Your soldiers can interact with them, and if someone can persuade a wolf, that wolf will not mind fighting alongside them," the Supreme said.


    Listening to the Supreme, Zhongshan felt like one cake after another was being handed to him. Wasn''t this clearly an opportunity to train wolf-riding soldiers? When the timees, an army riding wolves to conquer the world would be unstoppable.


    "Well, under normal circumstances, once the contract is established, it can be maintained for ten generations of your descendants, all of whom will be able to summon the wolf n. However, I previously examined you and found that you cannot have offspring, which means you only have about three hundred years. Make the best of it," the Supreme said solemnly.


    "Yes," Zhongshan immediately responded.


    Zhongshan knew the reason he couldn''t have offspring was due to the Hidden Body. There are gains and losses, but Zhongshan believed that this problem could be solved in the future.


    "Once the contract is established, the wolf n will share the fortune of your empire. May your empire grow strong," the Supreme said.


    "Thank you, Senior," Zhongshan immediately responded.


    "Woof, woof, woof," the little wolf cried out again.


    "No, you must return to the wolf domain unless you reach the Golden Core stage," the Supreme suddenly said to the little wolf.


    Although the Supreme spoke humannguage, it seemed the little wolf understood.


    The little wolf bounced around, very unwilling.


    Seeing the little wolf, the Supreme turned his gaze to Zhongshan and said, "You are not allowed to summon Xianxian unless it reaches the Golden Core stage."


    In fact, Zhongshan had noticed the little wolf from the beginning. He had thought that if he could summon the little wolf, he couldmand all the wolves in the world. However, since the Supreme had already stated this, Zhongshan could only nod.


    The little wolf bounced around reluctantly.


    "Well, train diligently, and reach the Golden Core stage as soon as possible. Once you reach the Golden Core stage, all the wolves in the world will know, and Zhongshan will know too. Then you cane out," the Supreme suddenly turned into a kindly grandfather, earnestly speaking to the little wolf.


    The little wolf argued for a while but eventually drooped its head, looking very unhappy.


    At this point, the Supreme turned to look at the still-kneeling Qingyun Wolf General.


    "Qingyun, how dare you? Don''t you know how important Xianxian is?" the Supreme suddenly scolded.


    "Supreme, I deserve to die a thousand times. Butst time, during the mission to retrieve that item for the Supreme, I was saved by Liudao in a life-or-death situation, so I had to save him," Qingyun Wolf General said with a guilty expression.


    Looking at Qingyun Wolf General, the Supreme frowned and said, "Life-or-death situation? It was your ipetence that let the great enemy of the wolf n go. How many more times will you let them go?"


    "Supreme, I have already severed ties with Liudao. If Liudao endangers the wolf n again, I will personally kill him," Qingyun Wolf General knelt on both knees and said.


    Looking at Qingyun Wolf General, the Supreme frowned, thought for a moment, and said, "Thest time you retrieved that item, it was for the wolf n. This time, letting them go can be considered repaying that favor. Alright, the grudge of harming Xianxian is temporarily set aside. If there is any further harm to the wolf n, they must be exterminated."


    "Yes," Qingyun Wolf General immediately responded.


    "However, the death penalty is waived, but the living penalty is not. You are to guard the Wolf Shrine of the ''Zhong'' nation, awaiting Zhongshan''s orders," the Supreme said.


    "Yes, Supreme," Qingyun Wolf General responded deeply, knowing it was his own doing.


    "Alright, Xianxian, let''s go," the Supreme said to the little wolf.


    The little wolf seemed very reluctant to part with Zhongshan, quickly running to his feet and rubbing its head against Zhongshan''s leg, showing a deep attachment.


    After a few rubs, it slowly ran to Qingyun Wolf General, making a few ''woof woof'' sounds.


    Qingyun Wolf General looked at the little wolf and then at Zhongshan, saying, "Xianxian says: Wait for me, I''lle to find you once I reach the Golden Core stage."


    Looking at the little wolf, Zhongshan nodded, his eyes full of gentleness.


    The Supreme looked at the little wolf and then at Zhongshan, frowning slightly.


    The little wolf obediently ran to the Supreme.


    "Senior, take care," Zhong Shan said.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, the Supreme finally said, "Since you have signed a contract with the wolf tribe, you don''t need to call me Senior anymore. My name is Di Xuan Sha."


    After speaking, the Supreme, Di Xuan Sha, took the little wolf and suddenly disappeared from the Longevity Hall.


    Watching the wolf tribe Supreme disappear, Zhong Shan sighed slightly, then looked at Qing Yun Wolf General in the hall, along with the red giant wolf he had summoned.


    At this moment, both Qing Yun Wolf General and the red giant wolf stood up. However, the red giant wolf seemed very respectful towards Qing Yun Wolf General.


    "The Supreme ordered me to follow yourmands. As long as it doesn''t vite my principles, you can ask anything of me," Qing Yun Wolf General said immediately.


    Looking at Qing Yun Wolf General, Zhong Shan quickly assigned him a position within the Da Yawn Dynasty.


    "In the future, can I call you ''Qing Yun''?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Of course, you can call the Supreme by his full name, so there''s no need to be formal with me," Qing Yun Wolf General replied.


    Nodding slightly, Zhong Shan said, "There isn''t much to do right now, so you can stay in my royal city for the time being."


    Hearing what Zhong Shan said, Qing Yun frowned slightly and asked, "Don''t you need to train wolf cavalry? I can summon arge number of wolf tribe members."


    "Not for now. I''ll trouble you with that after I have selected some candidates," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright, but you need to find a spacious ce soon to build a ''Wolf God Temple'' for me to live in, or for other wolf generals to guard in the future, to gather the wolf tribe in your ''Da Yawn Kingdom''," Qing Yun Wolf General said.


    "Don''t worry," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Looking at the nearby red giant wolf, Qing Yun Wolf General said, "Send it back. Can you do that?"


    "Yes, just like before, but in reverse. It will consume one-third of my true essence again," Zhong Shan nodded.


    After speaking, Zhong Shan walked to the red giant wolf. The red giant wolf stood still, very obediently. Zhong Shan forced out another drop of essence blood from his palm.


    "Heaven and Earth, Return!" Zhong Shan shouted, and nine ck smoke wolves emerged from his palm again. The surrounding space twisted, and the smoke wolves dispersed into arge cloud before disappearing. The red giant wolf was then transported back to where it came from. It was incredibly magical.


    Walking to the front of the Longevity Hall, Zhong Shan shouted to the distance, "Ying Lan, enter the city."


    Using his innate cultivation to project his voice far was not difficult. Soon, Ying Lan outside the royal city received the message, opened the gates, and let the people of the royal city inside.


    After arranging Qing Yun Wolf General in a pce, Zhong Shan called Ying Lan alone.


    "Great Uncle, what exactly happened just now?" Ying Lan immediately asked. The sudden thunder in the clear sky was too strange. Others might think it was due to the weather, but Ying Lan believed it was definitely caused by his Great Uncle.


    "Select the most reliable and promising individuals. In a few days, we''ll train wolf cavalry," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Huh? Wolf cavalry?" Ying Lan was surprised.


    "Yes, find those with excellent potential. They will be your most reliable subordinates in the future," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Alright," Ying Lan nodded immediately. Although he didn''t understand what wolf cavalry was, he understood the meaning behind Zhong Shan''s words. The selected individuals would receive the best equipment.

 Chapter 132: The Formidable Guardian

    <h4>Chapter 132: The Formidable Guardian</h4>


    Ten dayster, Zhong Shan''s true body once again left the Da Yawn Dynasty and set out on the journey back to the Kaiyang Sect.


    With the wolf tribe contract, Zhong Shan had gained another means of self-preservation. When writing the contract, Zhong Shan didn''t just use his own blood but also the blood from his hidden body. Originally part of one entity, although the contract root was in his true body, the hidden body was a part of Zhong Shan. Naturally, there were no issues. On that day, the hidden body also performed a summoning, which was very sessful and wless.


    Despite the convenience of summoning, Zhong Shan did not ostentatiously use the giant wolf for travel. Instead, he flew towards the Kaiyang Sect on his de.


    Outside the Kaiyang Sect, Tian Sha watched Tian Ling''er''s back. Tian Ling''er looked into the distance with an expectant expression. Tian Sha felt extremely depressed. He once believed that spending more time with Ling''er would win her heart back. However, over this period, he realized he was wrong. Ling''er''s heart couldn''t hold anyone else but Zhong Shan. Their conversations had be fewer and fewer.


    There was a time when Ling''er admired him so much. But now, everything had been taken away by Zhong Shan, this pest, this thief.


    Clenching his fist, Tian Sha, filled with frustration, turned and walked back into the Kaiyang Sect''s great formation.


    Tian Ling''er flew to the top of a mountain peak, waiting eagerly, like a wife awaiting her husband''s return. She stood there withoutint or regret, even in the rain, holding an umbre at the peak.


    Finally, after many days of waiting, her patience paid off. Tian Ling''er saw a small ck dot flying slowly towards the Kaiyang Sect from the distant sky.


    It was Zhong Shan! It was Zhong Shan!


    Overjoyed, Tian Ling''er recognized him from afar. Throwing her red silk ribbon, she stood on it. Just as she was about to fly out to meet him, she quickly smoothed her hair with her hand, making sure it wasn''t messy before flying up on her red ribbon.


    Known for her dreamy and careless nature, Tian Ling''er had never cared about her hair being messy in the past. But at this moment, she cared, for the first time, for someone else.


    Flying on her red ribbon, she soared into the sky to meet Zhong Shan.


    A smile blossomed on Tian Ling''er''s face. The excitement of the moment was uncontroble. She wanted to appear more dignified, but the joy in her heart made it impossible. Her face beamed with an incredibly radiant smile.


    As Zhong Shan flew towards the Kaiyang Sect, a figure suddenly appeared in a distant valley��an armored figure, the Thunder General.


    The Thunder General''s lips curled into a cold smile. After waiting for so long, he had finally appeared. He stepped lightly and flew up.


    Zhong Shan flew through the air, the Kaiyang Sect visible in the distance. He took a deep breath, then noticed a small ck dot flying towards him from afar.


    A ck dot?


    Tian Ling''er? The long red silk ribbon of the Kaiyang Sect was unmistakable. Tian Ling''er? She had reached the Jindan stage and hade out of seclusion?


    As they flew closer, Tian Ling''er''s smile blossomed like a flower, bing more radiant the closer she got to Zhong Shan. She couldn''t help herself, her speed increasing.


    "Zhong Shan~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    From afar, Tian Ling''er couldn''t control her shout.


    Hearing Tian Ling''er''s call, Zhong Shan''s heart softened in an instant, her voice breaking through his usually stone-like heart. Why was Tian Ling''er here? Zhong Shan quickly understood. To be the first to see him, she must have been waiting outside the mountain gate for a long time. She must have waited for a very long time.


    Waiting for him every day? Eagerly anticipating? Tian Ling''er might not be the most exceptional and perhaps a bit scatterbrained, but her feelings for him were the truest. With such genuine affection, how could he refuse?


    Though Zhong Shan was over eighty years old, the trials of time had tempered him, reducing the impulsiveness of youth. But precisely because of this, he understood the value of ''love'' more deeply and knew what was truly worth cherishing.


    Before him was what he should treasure the most in the present moment.


    Suddenly realizing everything, Zhong Shan felt his heart lighten, filled with a touch of emotion and excitement, he flew quickly towards Tian Ling''er.


    Tian Ling''er, standing on her red silk ribbon, also flew excitedly towards Zhong Shan. She finally saw him again. She felt as if she was floating, her mind filled with nothing but Zhong Shan.


    As Tian Ling''er got closer to Zhong Shan, her radiant smile suddenly froze. She widened her eyes, looking not at Zhong Shan, but behind him.


    A person, a person who had appeared out of thin air, a Yuanying stage expert? No, it was the Thunder General from before.


    The Thunder General flew up from the valley, into the high air behind Zhong Shan, his face twisted with an evil grin. He raised his hands, forming a massive thunderball.


    A thunderball?


    He wanted to kill Zhong Shan?


    The huge thunderball aimed at Zhong Shan, seemingly ready to st him to pieces at any moment.


    Seeing this, Tian Ling''er froze inside, her face filled with terror.


    "Zhong Shan~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Tian Ling''er shouted again, her voice full of panic. However, Zhong Shan mistook her trembling voice for excitement. When he saw Tian Ling''er''s expression change drastically, he sensed something was wrong.


    Turning his head, it was toote. The Thunder General''s massive thunderball had already been hurled towards him, expanding tenfold upon release, transforming into a giant lightning pir speeding towards Zhong Shan.


    Even a tenth-level innate stage cultivator would be doomed under such an attack. The Thunder General''s face twisted into a malevolent grin.


    "Zhong Shan~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Tian Ling''er''s eyes filled with tears, and she sped up even more.


    Zhong Shan was about to die? Zhong Shan was about to die? No, Zhong Shan must not die, he absolutely must not die.


    Tian Ling''er screamed inside, her speed increasing yet again.


    In an instant, as the lightning pir was about to reach Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er suddenly wrapped her arms around him, her back facing the lightning pir.


    The change happened so quickly. When Zhong Shan turned his head and saw the lightning pir, there was no time to dodge, no time at all. Was he going to die?


    In that critical moment, it seemed to Zhong Shan that time stood still, memories of the past shing through his mind. Was he going to die like this, so unclear and sudden?


    At that very moment, a figure appeared before Zhong Shan. Tian Ling''er.


    Tian Ling''er hugged Zhong Shan tightly, her back enveloped in protective energy. Her eyes locked onto Zhong Shan.


    In this moment, there was no fear in Tian Ling''er''s eyes, only an overwhelming, heart-wrenching tenderness, a softness that could dissolve everything.


    Tian Ling''er smiled. At thisst moment, she smiled at Zhong Shan.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er''s eyes, Zhong Shan felt his mind explode, an intense unwillingness to die, a refusal to ept death, surged through his brain.


    "No~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Zhong Shan roared, his eyes bloodshot as his body twisted madly, trying to shield or push Tian Ling''er away.


    But it was toote. Everything happened too fast.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a thunderous explosion, Tian Ling''er was struck and sent flying towards the valley below.


    "Pfffft~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A mouthful of blood sprayed from Tian Ling''er''s mouth, sshing directly onto Zhong Shan''s face. He did not blink, not even once, letting the blood stter on his face and into his eyes. Then, together with Tian Ling''er, he plummeted into the valley.


    Zhong Shan''s mind was in turmoil, his bloodshot eyes dazed. He felt as though his heart had shattered, an overwhelming, gut-wrenching pain filling his chest.


    Why, why was it Ling''er? Why?


    At this moment, Zhong Shan could no longer hold back. Tears streamed down his face for the second time in his life, the first time being for Ku''er. Heroes do not shed tears lightly, but only when deeply sorrowed. Zhong Shan hated it, hated that he wasn''t the one injured instead.


    "Ling''er~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Zhong Shan cried out, holding the limp Tian Ling''er tightly as he dashed towards the distant valley.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Holding Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shan crashed through a boulder, shattering it into pieces. Yet, Zhong Shan seemed unfazed, his eyes fixed only on Tian Ling''er in his arms, who was now barely clinging to life.


    In the sky, the Thunder General, seeing that Zhong Shan was still alive, grew furious. He raised another thunderball, ready to hurl it down.


    "Scoundrel~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, a loud shout echoed from the sky. To the Thunder General''s shock, a massive azure hand materialized out of thin air.


    The colossal hand, ten zhang wide, appeared in an instant, mming down towards the Thunder General.


    The Thunder General''s expression changed as he desperately hurled the thunderball at the hand.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The azure hand instantly crushed the thunderball and continued its relentless path towards the Thunder General.


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a scream, the Thunder General was sent flying, spewing blood. Injured, he nced at Zhong Shan, and then, filled with fear, he turned and fled without hesitation.


    "Ling''er, Ling''er~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Zhong Shan continuously channeled his true essence into Tian Ling''er, trying to keep her alive. Tian Ling''er was barely breathing, her back charred and her eyes slightly unfocused. Yet, as if in a final burst of rity, she smiled foolishly.


    Tian Ling''er''s meridians were shattered, her body severely damaged. Surviving this seemed nearly impossible.


    As Zhong Shan held Tian Ling''er, crying out in despair, an elderly man suddenly appeared before them��Shou Shan.


    Shou Shan grabbed Tian Ling''er''s wrist, his brow furrowing as he examined her. He then infused her with a surge of azure energy. In the next moment, his figure blurred, and he disappeared from sight.

 Chapter 133: Rebirth from the Nirvana Fire

    <h4>Chapter 133: Rebirth from the Nirvana Fire</h4>


    Shoushan infused Tian Ling''er with a surge of azure energy, then immediately disappeared. This energy seemed to clear Tian Ling''er''s mind significantly. Zhong Shan continued to channel his true essence into her, his focus solely on saving her. To him, nothing else mattered now; he was willing to sacrifice everything for her survival.


    "Zhong... Zhong Shan," Tian Ling''er weakly coughed up some clotted blood, a faint yet bittersweet smile on her face.


    "I''m here, I''m here," Zhong Shan responded, tears streaming down his face. One hand continuously channeled his true essence, while the other gently wiped the blood from Tian Ling''er''s mouth.


    "Am I beautiful today?" Tian Ling''er asked weakly, her voice barely audible, as if she could slip away at any moment.


    "Beautiful, very beautiful. Ling''er, don''t talk. The master will be here soon. You''ll be saved," Zhong Shan said, his heart aching.


    "Ling''er is clumsy, not as good as Sister Ku''er and Sister Bao''er, but Ling''er is happy to die for you," Tian Ling''er said, trembling.


    "Don''t say that, you''ll be fine, you must be fine," Zhong Shan said, holding her, feeling like his whole world was falling apart.


    "Can Ling''er be your third wife?" Tian Ling''er asked with immense difficulty. As she spoke, the smile on her face faded, reced by a look of longing and hope. Even if she was about to die, she needed an answer.


    "Yes, yes. Heaven as my witness, from today, Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er are husband and wife, bound by life and death, never to part," Zhong Shan dered, holding her limp left hand, their fingers interlocked.


    Looking at her hand sped with Zhong Shan''s, a faint, sorrowful smile appeared on Tian Ling''er''s pale face.


    "I''m Zhong Shan''s wife now," Tian Ling''er whispered weakly. Then, as if having fulfilled her final wish, she closed her eyes.


    At that moment, several people suddenly appeared around Zhong Shan: Tian Xingzi, Nie Qingqing, Gu Shuangzi, Xuan Xinzi, Shoushan, and Shouzong.


    "Master, Master, save Ling''er, please save her!" Zhong Shan shouted desperately.


    He could feel Tian Ling''er''s life force waning rapidly despite his efforts. She was slipping away.


    Tian Xingzi rushed forward, but Nie Qingqing was faster, grabbing Tian Ling''er''s hand and infusing her with more azure energy, her eyes filled with worry.


    Seeing Nie Qingqing take charge, Tian Xingzi stepped back slightly, trusting that Nie Qingqing''s intervention would be more effective.


    After a moment of channeling energy, Nie Qingqing took out a pill and ced it into Tian Ling''er''s mouth.


    Gradually, color returned to Tian Ling''er''s face. Zhong Shan started to smile, though tears still streamed down his cheeks, as she had not yet fully recovered.


    Zhong Shan wept and smiled simultaneously, like a child. No one mocked him; everyone was concerned for Tian Ling''er. They had also overheard the conversation between her and Zhong Shan, and it resonated deeply.


    "How is Ling''er?" Tian Xingzi asked urgently.


    "Her meridians arepletely shattered, and her vital points are destroyed. If she were an ordinary Golden Core stage cultivator, she''d be dead by now," Nie Qingqing said, taking a deep breath.


    "Senior, Senior, you must save Ling''er, please save her," Zhong Shan pleaded, utterly distraught.


    "Is there any hope?" Tian Xingzi asked anxiously.


    Zhong Shan also looked at Nie Qingqing expectantly, as did everyone else. They were all waiting for her to say "yes."


    "There is one way to save her, but..." Nie Qingqing began, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Senior, I beg you to save Ling''er. I will agree to any condition you set," Zhong Shan immediately responded. At this moment, he couldn''t consider anything else. The person in his arms was his wife. As long as she could live, any condition was eptable.


    Everyone looked at Nie Qingqing with anticipation.


    "Ling''er has a rare body constitution, the Li Ding physique. To save her, she must be taken to the Phoenix Pce and immersed in the Nirvana Fire Pool to be reborn. However, you are not allowed to see her," Nie Qingqing said to Zhong Shan.


    "Ling''er is my wife," Zhong Shan replied immediately.


    Nie Qingqing frowned slightly at his words. "I am taking Ling''er away. I won''t make things difficult for you. If you can reach the Nascent Soul stage, you cane find me. At that time, I will let you see Ling''er. Otherwise, you will never see her again."


    "Yes, as long as Ling''er can live, as long as she survives," Zhong Shan said without hesitation.


    If Zhong Shan had been calm, he would have realized that Nie Qingqing would save Ling''er regardless of his consent. But at this moment, nothing else mattered to him. The only important thing was saving Ling''er, saving his wife.


    Satisfied with Zhong Shan''s response, Nie Qingqing took out arge red sphere. The sphere was about a zhang (approximately three meters) in diameter and appeared almost transparent, filled with dancing mes, giving it an incredibly strange appearance.


    "Let go," Nie Qingqing instructed Zhong Shan.


    Reluctantly, Zhong Shan gazed at the unconscious Tian Ling''er in his arms. He gently kissed her forehead before allowing Nie Qingqing to take her. Nie Qingqing carefully ced Ling''er in the red sphere, which oddly allowed her to pass through its surface.


    Inside the sphere, Ling''ery as if asleep, her pale face showing a faint smile. The mes around her body did not seem to harm her.


    Zhong Shan stretched out his arm, unable to hide his reluctance as he watched Ling''er inside the red sphere.


    "Qingqing," Tian Xingzi called to Nie Qingqing.


    Nie Qingqing looked at Tian Xingzi and said, "Tian Xingzi, I''m taking Ling''er. With you, she will only continue to get hurt."


    "Sigh..." Tian Xingzi sighed deeply. He had no choice but to ept the situation. Ling''er could only be saved at the Phoenix Pce, and Nie Qingqing was the only one among them who could enter it. As long as Ling''er could be saved, that was all that mattered.


    "Qing''er," Nie Qingqing called out to the sky.


    "Caw��"


    A long, piercing cry echoed from the sky, and in an instant, the giant blue Luan descended, pping its wings as itnded in the valley in front of them.


    Holding the sphere containing Ling''er, Nie Qingqing leaped onto the Luan.


    "Let''s go, back to the Phoenix Pce," Nie Qingqingmanded.


    "Caw��"


    With a long cry, the blue Luan soared into the sky, quickly flying towards the northwestern horizon and disappearing from everyone''s view in a matter of moments.


    Zhong Shan watched as Tian Ling''er was taken away, stretching out his arm as if trying to grasp the distant Ling''er, unable to let go.


    "Master, Ling''er will be alright, right?" Zhong Shan asked Tian Xingzi.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Tian Xingzi sighed slightly. "In that Phoenix Egg, Ling''er will be safe. After undergoing rebirth through the Nirvana Fire, she will recoverpletely, possibly even better than before. Don''t worry too much."


    With Tian Xingzi''s reassurance, Zhong Shan felt a slight relief, though his heart was still filled with aplex mix of hope and anxiety. The image of Ling''er inside the sphere, surrounded by mes yet unharmed, remained etched in his mind. All he could do now was wait and strive to reach the Nascent Soul stage, so he could see his beloved wife again.


    "Yes, Master," Zhong Shan responded, taking a deep breath and wiping the tears from the corners of his eyes.


    "Who exactly is responsible for this?" Tian Xingzi''s eyes shed with a fierce light as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan knelt before Tian Xingzi, his fists clenched and veins bulging on his forehead.


    "Ling''er is now my wife. She took this blow for me. The enemy is none other than Lei Ting, whom we encountered at Lei Hua Valley. He is an extremely vile person. I must tear him to pieces and eradicate his entire n. Master, I will avenge this personally," Zhong Shan said fiercely, his eyes bloodshot and his voice filled with an overwhelming rage.


    Eradicate his entire n?


    Everyone around Zhong Shan took a deep breath. In the realm of cultivators, killing an opponent was one thing, but Zhong Shan''s words were shockingly extreme, calling for the extermination of the enemy''s entire n.


    Tian Xingzi took a deep breath and nodded, "Very well, you may avenge Ling''er."


    Tian Xingzi''s words were an unequivocal endorsement of Zhong Shan''s request, as if he didn''t even consider Zhong Shan''s current level of cultivation.


    The others exchanged nces, sensing the chilling intent in Tian Xingzi''s tone. No one tried to dissuade Zhong Shan, trusting in Tian Xingzi''s confidence in his disciple.


    "Thank you, Master," Zhong Shan said, bowing deeply.


    "Still calling me Master?" Tian Xingzi remarked.


    Looking up at Tian Xingzi, Zhong Shan immediately corrected himself, "Thank you, Father-inw."


    "Good. After you return from killing that wretch, I will take you to pay respects to your mother-inw," Tian Xingzi said.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan replied promptly.


    Tian Xingzi flipped his hand, producing four one-foot-long nails. He looked at Zhong Shan and said, "These are Soul-Sealing Nails. You know what they''re used for. Capture Lei Ting and don''t let him die too easily."


    There was a palpable chill in Tian Xingzi''s voice, like a cold wind sweeping through the area, revealing that he was far from a kind-hearted person, especially when it came to avenging his loved ones.


    However, this chill did not dampen the spirits of those present. Instead, it was like a refreshing breeze that calmed their agitated hearts, making them feel invigorated.


    "Yes, Master," Zhong Shan responded again, using the term out of habit and respect, though he had formally addressed Tian Xingzi as father-inw.


    Carefully epting the Soul-Sealing Nails, Zhong Shan''s eyes gleamed with a murderous intent.


    "Stand up," Tian Xingzi instructed.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan said, rising slowly.


    "Has Bei Qingsi already left?" Tian Xingzi asked again.


    "She has gone to Shenzhou. I have located the Mud Buddha, but I don''t know if he has arrived," Zhong Shan reported.


    "The Mud Buddha is currently at Kaiyang Sect. You should go there now and leave other matters aside for the moment," Tian Xingzi advised.


    "Yes, disciple will take his leave," Zhong Shan said, bowing to everyone.


    The group nodded in acknowledgment. Zhong Shan gave them onest look before turning and heading back the way he hade.


    Meanwhile, among the previous group, Shoushan and Shouzong had disappeared once again, leaving only Tian Xingzi, Gushuangzi, and Xuanxinzi watching Zhong Shan''s departing figure.


    "Senior Brother, shall we return?" Gushuangzi asked.


    "Yes," Tian Xingzi nodded, leading the two back towards Kaiyang Sect.

 Chapter 134: Searching the World

    <h4>Chapter 134: Searching the World</h4>


    The real body of Zhong Shan was rushing towards the Da Yin Dynasty. After the court meeting in the Longevity Hall, Zhong Shan headed directly to a pce within the imperial pce.


    Outside this pce, there were numerous guards on the perimeter, preventing anyone but the emperor from entering. Zhong Shan''s face was full of anger as he quickly approached this ce, now renamed the ''Wolf God Pce.'' Following him were Wei Taizhong, Yinn, Zhong Zheng, and Lin Xiao.


    The four of them were puzzled by Zhong Shan''s haste but kept their questions to themselves. Each wore a furrowed brow and their eyes were filled with doubts. What had happened to make the emperor lose hisposure so?


    When they reached the Wolf God Pce, the guards all saluted, and no one dared to stop them. In this pce, no, in this Da Yin Dynasty, Zhong Shan was like the sky.


    The doors of the Wolf God Pce were tightly closed, and no one knew what was inside.


    "Taizhong, have the perimeter guards withdraw," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes," Wei Taizhong immediately bowed. He quickly ordered the guards to leave the courtyard. Once they were gone, he returned to stand behind Zhong Shan, watching him.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath, suppressing his anger, and then pushed open the doors. "Boom, boom, boom" �C the doors slowly opened, allowing sunlight to flood in.


    The four behind Zhong Shan watched curiously. Inside, there were numerous spirit stones arranged in a peculiar web-like formation. At the center of this array sat a man in a green robe, who appeared normal except for a pair of green wolf ears.


    Seeing this person, the four behind Zhong Shan felt a sudden tension. What was this? A human? A demon?


    Inside was the Qingyun Wolf General, who guarded the Da Yin Dynasty. As Zhong Shan pushed the doors open, the Qingyun Wolf General opened his eyes. He raised an eyebrow and stood up, looking at Zhong Shan with some surprise.


    "Are you summoning the wolves?" the Qingyun Wolf General asked.


    "Qingyun, I need your help," Zhong Shan said immediately.


    "Oh?" Qingyun looked at Zhong Shan with confusion.


    "Summon all the wolves you can to search for Lei Ting, the one who almost harmed Xianxianst time," Zhong Shan said, clenching his fist.


    "You want to find him? To kill him?" Qingyun narrowed his eyes at Zhong Shan.


    "That''s right, I want to tear him to pieces," Zhong Shan admitted without hesitation.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Qingyun said, "The Supreme has already spoken. We will not pursue the matter fromst time. I cannot help you."


    Upon hearing this, the four behind Zhong Shan were all furious. They red at Qingyun but said nothing.


    "You don''t need to take action. I just need Lei Ting''s location. I will kill him myself," Zhong Shan insisted.


    "Why do you want to kill him?" Qingyun asked sternly.


    Staring at Qingyun, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said, "He almost killed someone very dear to me. This enmity is irreconcble. I only ask you one question: will you help or not?"


    Zhong Shan''s gaze was intense, without any hint of supplication. He was determined. If Qingyun refused, Zhong Shan knew he had other ways to force him to help, though it would not be a situation either of them desired. Lowering himself? Zhong Shan would never do that. Though his cultivation was low, he knew that when he signed the contract with the wolf tribe, his status was on par with the Wolf Sovereign, Di Xuan Sha.


    Would Di Xuan Sha humble himself before Qingyun Wolf General?


    Staring at Zhong Shan, Qingyun Wolf General felt a formidable presence. Despite Zhong Shan''s cultivation level being merely at the innate stage, this dominance was unusually eerie, making Qingyun feel inexplicably pressured.


    After observing Zhong Shan for a while, Qingyun Wolf General remained silent before finally speaking, "I will only help you locate him. I will not take action."


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Hmm," Qingyun Wolf General nodded.


    "Inform me as soon as you have any news," Zhong Shan added.


    "Alright," Qingyun Wolf General nodded again.


    "These four are my trusted aides. Let them be the first to contact the wolves as they arrive," Zhong Shan said once more.


    Zhong Zheng, Yinn, Wei Taizhong, and Lin Xiao looked curiously at the green-robed figure, who seemed to be both human and demon.


    Qingyun merely nodded lightly.


    "This is Qingyun Wolf General," Zhong Shan introduced him to the four.


    "Zhong Zheng, at your service, Qingyun Wolf General," Zhong Zheng quickly said.


    "Lin Xiao, at your service, Qingyun Wolf General."


    "Yinn, at your service, Qingyun Wolf General."


    "Wei Taizhong, at your service, Qingyun Wolf General."


    "Hmm," Qingyun Wolf General nodded slightly.


    After that, Zhong Shan led his group back, remainingpletely silent along the way, and none of the four spoke either.


    It wasn''t until they returned to the Longevity Hall that Zhong Shan took out a token and handed it to Lin Xiao. "Lin Xiao, this is the highest token of the Zhao family of the Song Kingdom. With this token, the Zhao family will obey you, including their army. Within six months, pacify the Song Kingdom."


    Lin Xiao''s eyes widened as he looked at the token. The Zhao family? The Zhao family of the Song Kingdom? Theymanded nearly a third of the Song Kingdom''s army. If this token was truly as the emperor said, it wouldn''t take six months to conquer the Song Kingdom; two months would suffice.


    "Yes," Lin Xiao immediately responded.


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Yinn, how is your Eight Gates Golden Lock Formationing along?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s taking shape. It''s invincible against mortal armies," Yinn said confidently.


    "Very good. I assign you the task of conquering the Xun Kingdom within six months. The Xun Kingdom is rtively weak among the six kingdoms, with no formidable generals. Once you take the Xun Kingdom, our Da Yin Dynasty will control half of the human territories. Then we will cease hostilities for a period to train the wolf cavalry and subsequently take the remaining three kingdoms in one fell swoop," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Understood," Yinn immediately responded.


    "Zhong Zheng," Zhong Shan called out.


    "I am here," Zhong Zheng immediately answered.


    "Handle logistics, take over the cities, and select capable officials for me to review," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes," Zhong Zheng immediatelyplied.


    "Taizhong," Zhong Shan called to Wei Taizhong.


    "I am here," Wei Taizhong promptly replied.


    "I will give you instructions shortly. You will assist me in preparing to ughter Lei Ting," Zhong Shan said fiercely.


    "Yes," Wei Taizhong immediately agreed.


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded.


    After that, the real Zhong Shan secluded himself in a vi within the Da Yin Dynasty to focus on cultivation. Increasing his strength would enhance his ability to exact revenge. Qingyun Wolf General had already sent out arge number of wolves to search. As long as General Lei Ting remained on Tiang Ind, the wolves would be everywhere. However, there had been no news of General Lei Ting so far.


    It was clear that General Lei Ting had been severely injuredst time, having been struck by a powerful Shoushan Palm. He must have gone into hiding to heal.


    Qingyun Wolf General also dispatched many wolves to monitor the Yinyue Dynasty to the north of Tiang Ind, but there was no sign of General Lei Ting there either. This indicated he had not returned to the dynasty for healing, and he was likely somewhere on Tiang Ind.


    Days passed one by one. General Lei Ting''s injuries would undoubtedly heal over time, but Zhong Shan wasn''t worried. He had already devised a way to deal with him. Even with mundane methods, Zhong Shan could handle him. Moreover, he could summon a powerful wolf at the Jindan stage.


    In the deep mountains where demonic wolves roamed, mortal armies could not set foot. Only the wolves could search the depths of the mountains.


    Under the leadership of Lin Xiao and Yinn, the Da Yin Dynasty''s army was also killing relentlessly, causing many casualties. However, Zhong Shan''s power was growing ever stronger.


    Six months had passed. In that time, both the Song Kingdom and the Xun Kingdom werepletely conquered. The Da Yin Dynasty''s influence was now unrivaled and unprecedentedly powerful. The remaining three kingdoms quickly formed an alliance, but none dared to raise an army against the Da Yin Dynasty.


    This gave the Da Yin Dynasty ample time to rest its soldiers and govern the people. After all, conquering a realm was easy, but ruling it was difficult. Pacifying and controlling the newly acquired cities required a long time.


    During this period, Yinn, Lin Xiao, Zhong Zheng, and Wei Taizhong each tamed arge wolf, a wolf that could be ridden.


    Lin Xiao and Yinn also selected some deeply trusted subordinates and tasked them with taming wolves to form a true cavalry of wolf riders.


    While the real Zhong Shan stayed in Xuanying, overseeing the kingdom, his hidden self practiced diligently, advancing to the seventh level of the innate stage. Yet he continued to push his acupoints day and night.


    Since copying all the materials from the Qizhen Pavilion, Zhong Shan spread numerous illustrations of low-level spirit fruits across thend, resulting in frequent tributes of various spirit fruits.


    Though there were no supreme spirit fruits, the myriad fruits still greatly benefited Zhong Shan.


    However, Zhong Shan''s natural aptitude remained poor. Despite the many spirit fruits and the kingdom''s fortune enhancing him, after nearly six months, he had only reached the peak of the seventh level of the innate stage. Breaking through was exceedingly difficult. Only two acupoints remained to reach the eighth level, but they seemedpletely blocked, resisting all attempts to open them.


    After several days of no progress, the real Zhong Shan swiftly returned to the Da Yin Dynasty''s pce.


    Merging with his hidden self, he immediately headed to the Wolf God Hall.


    This time, Zhong Shan came alone. Inside the hall, Qingyun was still meditating. Seeing Zhong Shan arrive, he looked slightly puzzled.


    "Have you found Lei Ting?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No news yet," Qingyun replied, shaking his head.


    "Then, I need you to do me a favor," Zhong Shan said.


    "Huh?" Qingyun asked, puzzled.


    "Use your powerful aura to pressure me, helping me break through my acupoints," Zhong Shan requested earnestly.


    "Oh? Using aura pressure to cultivate?" Qingyun said in surprise.


    "Yes, I have felt the oppression of a strong presence before. I know it works for me," Zhong Shan exined seriously, recalling the overwhelming aura of Nie Qingqing.


    "Alright, let''s give it a try," Qingyun agreed with a smile, clearly intrigued to see how aura pressure could help someone break through.


    Zhong Shan quickly sat down cross-legged as Qingyun''s aura suddenly unleashed, pressing down on him��


    On Tiang Ind, atop a mountain peak, a massive two-meter-tall azure wolf suddenly fixed its gaze downward. Its normally expressionless eyes abruptly narrowed, as if it had discovered something significant. The wolf turned and swiftly departed.


    In the valley below, there were two individuals. One was General Lei Ting, who had been injured over half a year ago and now appeared fully recovered, brimming with energy. The other was the mysterious Mr. Corpse.

 Chapter 135: Hongyun Town

    <h4>Chapter 135: Hongyun Town</h4>


    "General Lei Ting, is that person dead?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "Damn it, that kid has some incredible luck, always managing to escape. This time, he even got me injured. It''s only now that I''ve fully recovered," General Lei Ting replied, looking rather frustrated.


    Upon hearing this, Mr. Corpse squinted his eyes and a slight smile appeared on his lips. He said, "It seems that His Majesty''s order for you to hunt him down is quite difficult. Why don''t you return with me?"


    "Nonsense! Is killing that pest difficult? I promised His Majesty that I would kill him. How can I face His Majesty if I return now?" General Lei Ting said angrily, still not showing proper respect to Mr. Corpse.


    Mr. Corpse shot General Lei Ting a cold nce, then smiled slightly. "In that case, I wish you good luck, General."


    "Hmph," General Lei Ting snorted.


    Mr. Corpse then turned and swiftly flew away on his sword��


    In the Dacheng Dynasty, Xuanjing, within the pce''s Wolf God Hall.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~"


    A thunderous roar emanated from the Wolf God Hall, so loud it seemed to reverberate throughout the entire capital.


    Qingyun, the Wolf General, stared wide-eyed at Zhong Shan, who was sitting cross-legged in front of him. Even this seasoned general, who had weathered countless storms, now had a bead of cold sweat on his forehead, looking at Zhong Shan in disbelief.


    Zhong Shan sat in meditation. An hourter, he slowly opened his eyes, looking at the still-shocked Qingyun.


    "Are you cultivating or ying with death?" Qingyun asked, swallowing hard.


    Zhong Shan rose gently, not feeling anything amiss. Shaking his head, he said, "I must break through, and didn''t I just break through? I''m now at the eighth level of the Xiantian stage."


    Zhong Shan felt a slight sense of satisfaction. At the eighth level of the Xiantian stage, under the Heavenly Demon Refining Body Technique, he could now directly confront those at the early Jindan stage.


    "Woo~~~~~~~~~~"


    Outside the capital, a wolf''s howl suddenly echoed, piercing through the air and reaching the Wolf God Hall.


    Upon hearing this, Zhong Shan furrowed his brow and turned to look at Qingyun, as if he had realized something.


    Qingyun also furrowed his brow, then looked at Zhong Shan and said, "Congrattions, Lei Ting has appeared."


    Upon confirmation, a fierce glint shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes. Finally, he had appeared. Good, good, good!


    "What are you nning to do?" Qingyun asked.


    "I''ve long been prepared, just waiting for Lei Ting to appear. Don''t worry, I promised you wouldn''t need to take action, and you won''t. I''ll arrange everything, andter, you just need to have a wolf lead me to Lei Ting," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "Okay," Qingyun nodded.


    Quickly, Zhong Shan stepped out of the Wolf God Hall and began making arrangements.


    To deal with Lei Ting, he needed to tear him apartpletely. This time, Zhong Shan would take the initiative. No one could provoke Zhong Shan and still live freely afterward, not even a Yuan Ying stage expert.


    This time, Zhong Shan would personally bring down this lofty expert��


    In the Dacheng Dynasty, to the north, there was a ce called Hongyun Town.


    Half a year ago, the Dacheng Dynasty began relocating the townsfolk. People within a thousand-mile radius were moved away. Now, the only presence there was the Dacheng Dynasty''s army, guarding all around and preventing anyone from entering.


    To the north of Hongyun Town was a massive mountain, or rather, a giant volcano. This volcano had been dormant for over two hundred years.


    In Hongyun Town, there was a manor that Zhong Shan had previously owned. The manor was beautifully designed, and this time, Zhong Shan''s goal was to use it to capture General Lei Ting.


    To the south of Hongyun Town, there was another estate guarded by arge number of troops, including a thousand wolf cavalry. These wolf cavalry were extremely formidable, riding atop giant wolves, their imposing presence enough to frighten many horses.


    Ying Lan, Wei Taizhong, Zhong Zheng, and Lin Xiao were all waiting outside the manor. Even Qingyun Wolf General was curious and came to see the army stationed outside the town. Qingyun Wolf General wanted to know how Zhong Shan would kill a Nascent Soul stage expert. A Nascent Soul stage expert, relying on these mortal troops? Ridiculous.


    Zhong Shan said he would deal with General Lei Ting using the manor in the town?


    Qingyun Wolf General looked at Ying Lan and the others, but each of their faces was filled with confidence, as if there was nothing Zhong Shan couldn''t aplish.


    Turning back to nce at the manor, Qingyun Wolf General was full of doubt. Was he really so confident?


    Meanwhile, in the deep mountains north of Hongyun Town, another bizarre event was unfolding.


    In the sky, General Lei Ting was angrily chasing with his sword raised, while on the ground, Zhong Shan was running with utmost confidence.


    From the beginning, when Zhong Shan faced General Lei Ting, he had covered his face with a ck cloth. But did covering his face mean General Lei Ting wouldn''t recognize him?


    All the way, General Lei Ting never stopped his pursuit. Strangely, every time he was about to catch Zhong Shan, Zhong Shan suddenly disappeared?


    Then Zhong Shan would reappear from another ce, as if he could travel through mountains and earth. How could that be? He wasn''t a zombie.


    The more General Lei Ting thought about it, the angrier he became. This Zhong Shan had to die. He was only at the Xiantian stage and already so hard to kill. If his cultivation increased in the future, what would happen?


    Although General Lei Ting was filled with anger, he wasn''t blinded by it. As he pursued, he also observed his surroundings. There was no danger, no trap.


    Gradually, the two of them entered a more open area from the deep mountains, a ce inhabited by humans.


    Standing atop a dormant volcano, General Lei Ting looked down at the swiftly moving shadow below, a cold smile ying on his lips. In the deep mountains, he didn''t know what trick this pest used to dodge him time and again. Now, out of the mountains and in human society, let''s see how he could still hide.


    This ce was also part of His Majesty''s n. Once the northern part of Tiang Ind was unified, they would tten this area immediately.


    Watching the receding shadow, General Lei Ting sneered coldly, stepping forward and flying towards Hongyun Town where Zhong Shan was heading.


    Here, General Lei Ting no longer feared Zhong Shan escaping. Escape? Let''s see you try!


    In an instant, General Lei Ting appeared in the sky above Hongyun Town.


    "Immortal?" some keen-eyed soldiers stationed at the southern estate outside Hongyun Town suddenly eximed.


    An immortal, that person was flying in the sky, wasn''t he?


    They had received news earlier that this army was stationed outside Hongyun Town to surround and kill a strong opponent. A strong opponent? An immortal? His Majesty wanted to kill an immortal?


    The soldiers were filled with shock.


    Ying Lan, Lin Xiao, and the others took a deep breath. He''s here, finally here.


    Qingyun Wolf General was also staring intently at the thunderstorm in the distant sky. General Lei Ting had recovered to his peak state. The figure who had entered the city earlier, Qingyun Wolf General had seen it too, Zhong Shan? Zhong Shan had lured him here?


    After stealthily entering Hongyun Town, Zhong Shan immediately slipped into the manor in the town and disappeared. However, all of this was within General Lei Ting''s sight.


    With a flip of his hand, General Lei Ting summoned a massive thunderball and hurled it toward the house Zhong Shan had entered.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A gigantic bolt of lightning streaked through the sky, the thunderball crashing into the house, which exploded with a tremendous noise.


    Outside the city, many of the defending soldiers felt a chill in their hearts.


    The God of Thunder! That person was the God of Thunder! He must be an immortal from the heavens; otherwise, how could he summon such thunder?


    Some soldiers were already panicking. Would apanying His Majesty to kill the God of Thunder provoke his wrath and doom them all?


    After the thunderball struck, the house was shattered, but Zhong Shan''s body was nowhere to be found. Instead, beneath the ground, there was a tunnel, a dark and deep tunnel.


    "Bastard~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    General Lei Ting roared in fury, his figure swiftly darting into the tunnel.


    The God of Thunder was enraged. The God of Thunder was enraged?


    While the army outside was in turmoil, a loud shout suddenly came from the manor behind them.


    "Heaven and Earth, Summon!"


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a dull thud, a massive red wolf, twenty meters high, suddenly appeared within the manor.


    Zhong Shan, d in a robe adorned with nine dragons and clouds, stepped onto the giant red wolf.


    Turning his head, Qingyun Wolf General looked incredulously at the massive red wolf. The eighth level of the Golden Core stage? Wouldn''t that require all of Zhong Shan''s true essence? But now, Zhong Shan seemed not to have expended any energy at all. Did he have a Bu Tian Dan (Heaven-Mending Pill)?


    Moreover, when had Zhong Shan returned? Wasn''t he in the distance just now? The tunnel?


    A twenty-meter-tall wolf, as tall as a six-story building, brought immense shock to all the soldiers. Zhong Shan, standing atop the wolf''s head, exuded an aura of dominance, looking down on all beings.


    The enormous wolf indeed had a powerful impact, quickly calming the army''s agitation. At this moment, everyone realized that their emperor was no ordinary person.


    The red wolf, carrying Zhong Shan, slowly walked to the front of the manor.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty." The army bowed in unison.


    Zhong Shan surveyed the soldiers and then turned his gaze to Wei Taizhong.


    "Taizhong," Zhong Shan called.


    "Your servant is here," Wei Taizhong immediately responded.


    "Begin now," Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "Yes," Wei Taizhong replied respectfully.


    Wei Taizhong quickly moved away, while Zhong Shan, riding the mighty red wolf, slowly walked to the front of the army. He gazed coldly at the distant Hongyun Town.

 Chapter 136: Boom! Boom! Boom!

    <h4>Chapter 136: Boom! Boom! Boom!</h4>


    Zhong Shan led the charge on a massive wolf, followed closely by Ying Lan, Lin Xiao, and Zhong Zheng, each riding a ten-meter-tall wolf. Behind them were a thousand wolf cavalry.


    Qingyun lightly stepped forward, appearing beside Zhong Shan and standing on the head of the giant red wolf with him.


    Seeing Qingyune up without permission, Zhong Shan frowned slightly but said nothing. It was useless to speak now. In the future, when his cultivation improved, who would dare to stand beside him without his consent?


    "The red wolf can assist you, but you must know that Lei Ting is now at his peak. When faced with certain death, the red wolf has the right to abandon you," Qingyun said.


    The red wolf beneath them also howled twice, apparently agreeing with Qingyun.


    "Then let''s wait and see," Zhong Shan smiled slightly, saying no more, and looked towards the distant Hongyun Town.


    After entering the deep tunnel, General Lei Ting suddenly found that it was very deep and branched off into many passages. Where had that pest escaped to in this short time?


    "Light the fire~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    From a distance, Wei Taizhong''s shout suddenly echoed.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a loud bang, the entrance to the cave General Lei Ting had entered was suddenly filled with earth. The tunnel was buried under arge amount of soil.


    Seeing this, Qingyun paused slightly. What was happening? There were no fluctuations of any spell just now.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    In the distance, Hongyun Town resounded with continuous explosions, like thunderps. Each explosion sent earth flying into the sky.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Hongyun Town was in chaos, with countless houses being sted into the air. The massive explosions made the ground tremble even from a great distance.


    The ground shook as if an enormous earthquake was underway, wave after wave. The devastating explosions could be felt even from underground.


    In just half an incense stick''s time, the entirety of Hongyun Town was reduced to ruins. The surroundingnd continued to tremble, soil erupting into the sky, trees falling, and some even strangely catching fire.


    From a distance, the army was filled with worry. The horses neighed incessantly, and even the giant wolves were restless, their steps uneasy. If not for the organized presence here, the wolves would have bolted long ago.


    Half an hour passed, and the distant ground was still shaking. Out of curiosity, Qingyun extended his divine sense towards the source.


    Beneath the ground, mes were everywhere. Countless fires ignited the ck-gray powder, which exploded violently. The powder''s explosive power was ordinary, but its quantity was overwhelming. It seemed as if the entire underground was filled with it. However, due to Zhong Shan''s meticulous cement, the explosions were continuous, one area after another, from top to bottom,yer byyer. Additionally, there wererge amounts of iron fragments mixed in. As the explosions began, the iron fragments shot out like sharp swords in all directions.


    Even though General Lei Ting was at the Nascent Soul stage, he seemed trapped by the vast amount of soil underground, bombarded continuously by explosions. He was already in a sorry state.


    The explosions continued unabated, shaking the entire area for hundreds of miles. The sky in the distance was already covered with countless dust particles.


    The soldiers all wore expressions of shock. What was happening over there?


    "What are those?" Qingyun asked Zhong Shan curiously.


    "ck gunpowder, used by mortals for fireworks. Over the past few decades, I''ve had people specifically research and mix the proportions," Zhong Shan replied briefly.


    "Huh?" A hint of surprise shed in Qingyun''s eyes.


    An entire hour passed with continuous explosions in the distance. The ground shook and trembled for a full hour before slowly calming down.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    To the north of the former Hongyun Town, the dormant volcano suddenly erupted with a loud bang, sending a red pir of light soaring into the sky.


    Arge amount of magma shot high into the air, instantly illuminating the gray sky with a crimson glow.


    The volcano had erupted, and magma spewed in all directions, setting the mountains aze and wreaking havoc.


    At the moment of the eruption, amidst the first surge of magma, a battered figure emerged.


    General Lei Ting!


    His clothes were mostly tattered, his face charred, his hair disheveled, and dried blood trickled from the corner of his mouth. The more than an hour of torment had inflicted devastating psychological and physical damage on him.


    General Lei Ting was seriously injured again, and this time the injuries were even more frustrating. There was no enemy, and he had no way to fight back. On the surface, he could have dodged instantly, but underground, there was nowhere to run. No, it seemed that no matter where he fled underground, explosions followed him.


    It was only after reaching the extremely hot depths that he was finally ejected out of the volcano by thest explosion, along with a surge of magma, and saw the light of day again.


    The hour-long torment made General Lei Ting feel like crying. He was too aggrieved to be so inexplicably injured by such trash.


    "Let''s go. Lei Ting is already severely injured. Now we can move in," Zhong Shan called to the red wolf beneath him.


    "Owooooo~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The red wolf let out a long howl and began to sprint rapidly towards the site of the volcanic eruption.


    On the wolf''s head, Qingyun sighed, "You were really lucky. If he hadn''t run towards the volcano at the end and been hit by the erupting magma, he wouldn''t have been so badly injured."


    "Luck? Hmph, I make my own luck! Based on my gunpowder arrangement and the varying intensities of the explosions, his intelligence would lead him underground towards the volcano," Zhong Shan said coldly.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Qingyun felt a chill. Although Zhong Shan was only at the Xiantian (Innate) stage of cultivation, his wisdom made Qingyun feel a sense of awe.


    Control? Yes, control. Controlling Lei Ting''s movements with underground explosions?


    This was the most terrifying aspect in military confrontations, manipting the enemy to act ording to one''s own n? How was this possible? It was too incredible.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Qingyun took a deep breath. At this moment, Qingyun finally understood the Supreme''s intentions. When the Supreme chose Zhong Shan, he thought it was to pamper the young master. After all, the signed person''s cultivation was too low, and his foundation was poor. Yet the Supreme chose him? Moreover, the tone of the Supreme''s words indicated immense expectations. Could this be the reason?


    Qingyun needed to reassess Zhong Shan. Previously, he had stayed in the Great Zhen Dynasty only because of the Supreme''s orders. Now Qingyun had his own curiosity to stay and see what other wonders Zhong Shan could produce.


    The ground, having been shaken previously, was now rugged and difficult for horses to traverse. Large rocks jutted out everywhere, but only creatures like wolves could navigate it as if it were t ground.


    With a few leaps, the giant wolf carried Zhong Shan and Qingyun to the foot of the volcano.


    Magma poured down from above, much of it falling from the sky. However, the giant wolf was incredibly agile, dodgingrge amounts of magma in an instant and rushing up the mountain.


    The giant wolf opened its mouth and spat out a massive fireball straight at the severely injured General Lei Ting.


    General Lei Ting, already gravely wounded, saw the rapidly approaching giant wolf in the distance. His pupils contracted, and a deep sense of dread engulfed him.


    That pest, standing on the giant wolf? How could this be? Thest time, they were in the wolf territory. Could it be that His Majesty did not gain the wolves'' recognition, but this person did?


    No, there was someone else on the giant wolf''s head �� Qingyun Wolf General. Was it him?


    Why was Qingyun with that pest? Qingyun Wolf General wouldn''t target me. Although I injured the Wolf n''s young master back then, Qingyun had already let me go to repay the life-saving debt. Otherwise, he could have killed me in the wolf territory.


    However, this is not the best time. My body is seriously injured, and I need to find a ce to recuperate.


    Just as General Lei Ting was about to turn and leave, a massive fireball suddenly charged towards him.


    Apanying the huge fireball, Zhong Shan also raised his de.


    Heavenly Demon Refinement Technique, Second Level.


    Red Luan Mist!


    A massive ten-zhang long red de aura, seemingly containing faint pink energy within, followed the fireball, shooting straight at General Lei Ting.


    Seeing Zhong Shan attack, General Lei Ting''s face turned cold. Even though he was severely injured, he ruthlessly reached out and grabbed the massive fireball, his palm emitting slight lightning threads, much weaker than the thunderball he had previously released.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a loud explosion, General Lei Ting crushed the massive fireball with one hand, but the residual shockwave made his body heat up. The already charred clothing was ignited again by the fireball.


    General Lei Ting''s eyes widened. This would never have happened if he were in peak condition. A tiger fallen into a nd is bullied by dogs.


    Taking a deep breath, General Lei Ting red at the giant wolf on the distant boulder.


    Seeing General Lei Ting take a deep breath, Zhong Shan coldly smiled.


    "Qingyun Wolf General, why are you stopping me?" General Lei Ting immediately asked.


    "I am just a spectator, not getting involved," Qingyun smiled slightly, then leaped off the red wolf''s head and flew into the sky.


    Understanding Qingyun''s meaning, General Lei Ting suddenly gave a cold smile towards Zhong Shan.


    Even severely injured, General Lei Ting believed he could still crush Zhong Shan to death.


    Staring coldly at Zhong Shan, who was filled with hatred, Zhong Shan slowly took out a ''God-Restraining Bone-Piercing Nail''.

 Chapter 137: The Death of Lei Ting

    <h4>Chapter 137: The Death of Lei Ting</h4>


    Zhong Shan held the foot-long God-Restraining Bone-Piercing Nail in his left hand, as if General Lei Ting before him were a huge prey.


    "Red Wolf, I don''t know your name yet, but you are at the eighth level of the Golden Core stage, and the person before you has only half his life left. So, you''re not facing certain death and can escape at any time. Fulfill the Wolf n''s promise with all your might," Zhong Shan said solemnly to the giant wolf beneath him.


    "Howl~~~" The giant wolf howled, clearly preparing for an all-out fight as Zhong Shan had said. Its eyes gradually turned blood-red, staring coldly at General Lei Ting.


    At this moment, for some unknown reason, General Lei Ting''s eyes also began to turn slightly red, and his breathing became rapid.


    "Now!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    "Boom~~~" Another fireball spewed from the giant wolf''s mouth, heading straight for General Lei Ting in mid-air. Simultaneously, the giant wolf also leaped up, its huge body pouncing towards General Lei Ting.


    Suddenly, General Lei Ting felt a wave of dizziness. What was happening? Why was he thinking about women at a time like this?


    Shaking his head, he realized something was wrong. He was under some kind of hallucinogenic spell. As he tried to focus on himself, a huge fireball came crashing towards him.


    "Boom~~~" General Lei Ting widened his eyes and punched, scattering the massive fireball with a burst of lightning. But in his eyes, he still saw some beautiful women flitting about.


    He broke the fireball, but he still needed to take a good look.


    Here they came, the beauties. As General Lei Ting blinked, the former peerless beauties suddenly turned into a giant wolf w.


    Following the fireball was the massive Red Wolf.


    The Red Wolf, with a fierce expression, knocked General Lei Ting to the ground. Its sharp ws fiercely swiped at General Lei Ting''s body.


    General Lei Ting knew things were bad. He put up his shield, blocking the sharp ws, but his head still felt like it was about to burst.


    "Boom~~~" General Lei Ting was knocked into the magma. The Fire Wolf, seemingly fire-elemental by nature, was not afraid of the slightly cooled magma. It pinned General Lei Ting down, furiously wing at him and spitting fireballs, seemingly trying to kill him in one go.


    However, General Lei Ting''s vitality was incredibly tenacious. Despite the weakened shield, it didn''t copse. He could barely fight back.


    At this time, Zhong Shan had already put away hisrge knife. He leapt, holding the God-Restraining Bone-Piercing Nail covered in Red Luan Mist, as he had seen it directly prate shields in the battle between Miaoxian and Mr. Corpse.


    Sure enough, without any obstruction, the Red Luan Mist carried the God-Restraining Bone-Piercing Nail, directly piercing General Lei Ting''s shield.


    The Red Wolf pinned General Lei Ting down, and with all his might, Zhong Shan drove the God-Restraining Bone-Piercing Nail through General Lei Ting''s left wrist.


    "Ah~~~" General Lei Ting roared in pain. His right hand iled, but once the God-Restraining Bone-Piercing Nail had pierced his left wrist and pinned it to the ground, he couldn''t move it anymore.


    The tides had turned; the more heavily General Lei Ting was injured, the easier it became for the Red Wolf.


    "Shhhh��" Yet another God-Restraining Bone-Piercing Nail pierced through General Lei Ting''s right wrist, pinning it to the ground.


    "Roar��" General Lei Ting howled in fury, but once pinned, he was renderedpletely immobile.


    The Red Wolf, understanding Zhong Shan''s intent, immediately pressed its paws down on General Lei Ting''s legs.


    "Shhhh��shhhh��" Zhong Shan, with a ruthless expression, finally pinned down General Lei Ting''s four limbs using four God-Restraining Bone-Piercing Nails, leaving him entirely incapacitated.


    At the same time, Zhong Shan drew out hisrge knife and made a diagonal sh above General Lei Ting.


    "Boom��" A huge trench suddenly appeared, diverting theva flowing down from above away from General Lei Ting.


    Having achieved the second level of the Celestial Demon Body Refinement Technique, Zhong Shan could now form an energy shield outside his body, allowing him to stand safely amidst the chaotic surroundings. General Lei Ting, however, with his energy shieldpletely shattered, was like a mortal warrior whose vital meridian points had been struck, unable to utilize his internal energy.


    Only the years of cultivation had toughened General Lei Ting''s skin enough to withstand being burned alive.


    In the sky, Qing Yun watched with eyes full of shock. Zhong Shan was only at the eighth level of the Innate Stage? Just the eighth level? How was he able to manifest an energy shield outside his body? And how had he managed to pierce General Lei Ting''s shield with the God-Restraining Bone-Piercing Nails?


    It didn''t make sense. Qing Yun''s eyes were filled with intense confusion. Beside Zhong Shan, the giant wolf''s eyes shed with satisfaction. A Nascent Soul stage being? And he had helped a human bring down a Nascent Soul stage being?


    From a distance, countless soldiers watched the scene atop the volcano. Their emperor, their emperor was too strong. That was an immortal, an immortal pinned to the mountain by their emperor.


    In that instant, Zhong Shan''s formidable presence was indelibly etched into everyone''s minds. Even the fire spewed by the giant wolf didn''t seem as miraculous anymore.


    An immortal? The emperor had pinned an immortal to the mountain in an instant, and the emperor even had an immortal subordinate, the green-d demon who had ascended into the sky.


    At that moment, everyone was filled with intense excitement. No matter what, they had witnessed a scene that others might never see in their lifetimes. In the future, this scene of the emperor pinning an immortal to the mountain would be the most powerful tale they could boast about.


    Three dayster, the volcano ceased its eruption.


    The great Red Wolf stepped back into the Wolf Domain.


    At the foot of the mountain, the army was stationed, while Zhong Shan, along with Qing Yun, Yinn, Lin Xiao, Wei Taizhong, and Zhong Zheng, observed the pinned General Lei Ting from above.


    The God-Restraining Bone-Piercing Nails immobilized his divine consciousness and sealed his true energy, rendering General Lei Ting a helplessmb awaiting ughter.


    This sight filled everyone with shock.


    A Nascent Soul stage being, a presence previously unimaginable, nowy at their feet, ready to be ughtered.


    Qing Yun also swallowed hard. Although he still looked down on Nascent Soul stage beings, as in his eyes they were like mere cats or dogs,pared to Zhong Shan at the Innate Stage, this Nascent Soul stage Lei Ting was a colossal entity.


    Zhong Shan had truly done it. An Innate stage, trapping a Nascent Soul stage?


    Taking a deep breath, Qing Yun''s view of Zhong Shan, despite his low cultivation level, transformed. In his eyes, Zhong Shan''s figure became grand. This man was extraordinary, no, he was very capable.


    "Sir, is he the one who hurt Sister Ling''er?" Yinn asked immediately.


    Zhongshan furrowed his brows slightly. "Call me Grandmother in the future."


    "Oh," Yinn stuck out her tongue.


    "Hahaha, kid, pest, I truly hate you. I hate that I didn''t kill you with one palm strike back then," Thunder General roared madly lying on the ground.


    "Kill me? Hmph, originally, I didn''t n toe find you. At least not in the short term. But you kept trying to kill me one after another. You even nearly killed my wife half a year ago. That day, I swore I''d find you as soon as possible and make you suffer. Make you wish for death," Zhongshan said coldly.


    "Hahaha,e on, kill me. The Yin Yue Empire will make sure you don''t die easily," Thunder General shouted.


    "Kill you? Do you think it''ll be easy? The Yin Yue Empire? I''ll go there eventually. Not only do I want you dead, I want to wipe out your entire n. Wait for your death underground. As for your method of death, hmph, too loyal," Zhongshan said icily.


    "Here," Wei Taizhong immediately called out.


    "Bring the ant nest from the Great Ha Desert. I want to feed him to the ants. You stay here and guard. Wait until the carnivorous antspletely digest him, thene back to me," Zhongshan ordered coldly.


    "Yes," Wei Taizhong responded immediately.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Iron-blooded Thunder General couldn''t help but shiver. Feed him to ants? And Qingyun beside him also felt a chill run down his spine. Suddenly feeling like he had been too kind before.


    "Lin Xiao, leave behind five hundred wolf cavalry and fifty thousand heavy armor troops to guard this mountain. Wait until Thunder ispletely consumed by the ants, thene back with Taizhong to see me," Zhongshan ordered again.


    "Yes," Lin Xiao responded immediately.


    Then, Zhongshan adjusted his clothes and led everyone down the mountain.


    Although Zhongshan returned to Xuanjing, the deeds of the massacre of immortals spread throughout the army.


    The Emperor''s strength was remembered by everyone for the first time. A celestial, a flying celestial, was nailed to the volcano north of Hongyun Town by His Majesty''s own strength. That mountain was henceforth named ''Celestial ughter Mountain.''


    Under the protection of Heaven and Earth, even the Wolf Immortal bowed to His Majesty.


    Thus, the Wolf n became the national beast of the Great Ju Dynasty, and the Wolf Cavalry was no longer the highest secret. As long as you were loyal to the Great Ju Dynasty, you could be the next Wolf Cavalry. From then on, riding wolves into battle was invincible. Even the impassable mountains and rivers were no longer so dangerous.


    Mysterious, with the emergence of the Wolf Cavalry, the Great Ju Dynasty became more and more mysterious. The surrounding three countries were now in a state of panic and didn''t know what to do.


    Inside the Longevity Hall, Zhongshan once again presided over the court, ruling over the Great Ju Dynasty, while his true self once again headed towards the Kaiyang Sect, where Thunder General died, subjected to cruel punishment.


    Ling''er''s revenge was achieved, but Ling''er''s whereabouts became elusive. Phoenix Pce? What ce was that? And Nie Qingqing''s family still didn''t know what had happened. He had to go back and ask his master to rify.


    This time, Zhongshan learned from his previous lesson. Even though he could fly, most of the time it was better to walk back to the Kaiyang Sect. Being too conspicuous in the sky was not wise unless his cultivation reached a level where he could defend himself.

 Chapter 138: Comments

    <h4>Chapter 138: Comments</h4>


    A monthter, Zhongshan had been back in the Kaiyang Sect for ten days, but he hadn''t seen his master until the tenth day when he received a summons.


    In the Kaiyang Hall, Zhongshan respectfully bowed to Tianxingzi.


    "Thunder is dead?" Tianxingzi asked.


    "Yes," Zhongshan nodded, even though it had been a long time, the memory of Ling''er taking a blow for him still pierced his heart.


    Looking at Zhongshan, Tianxingzi sighed lightly and nodded. "I believe in you. Having Ling''er is enough for her."


    "Yes, Master," Zhongshan nodded.


    "Let''s go,e with me to pay respects to your stepmother," Tianxingzi said.


    "Yes," Zhongshan immediately nodded.


    Then, Tianxingzi stepped on a cloud, and it carried Zhongshan out of the Kaiyang Sect''s main hall, swiftly heading north towards Kaiyang Peak.


    In just a moment, the two arrived at the halfway point of a high mountain.


    At the halfway point of the mountain, there were two houses, one of which seemed rtively new, as if it had been built less than a year ago.


    On the left was a bamboo forest, and on the right was a pond, with the two houses located beside the pond and the bamboo forest respectively.


    In the center of this open space was a meticulously clean grave.


    Arge white grave surrounded by flowers, very fresh. On the tombstone in front of the grave were carved seven words: "The Grave of Beloved Wife Nie Wuyou!"


    Seven words that expressed Tianxingzi''s feelings towards Nie Wuyou.


    Tianxingzinded on a cloud and watched quietly, looking at the tombstone as if he had countless words to say to Nie Wuyou, but couldn''t speak them, only turning into a deep sorrow.


    Zhongshan stood behind Tianxingzi, his face solemn.


    "Zhongshan,e and pay respects to your mother-inw," Tianxingzi said, taking a deep breath.


    "Yes," Zhongshan immediately nodded.


    Then, he quickly walked to the front of the gravestone and respectfully kowtowed three times to the person in the grave.


    "Wuyou, this is our son-inw. Ling''er has been promised to him by me. Take a good look," Tianxingzi said softly.


    "Zhongshan pays respects to his mother-inw," Zhongshan said to the gravestone.


    Looking at Zhongshan, Tianxingzi smiled faintly, but there was a sense of sadness in that smile. His eyes were slightly red.


    "Wuyou, with Ling''er having a home and protection, I can rest assured. Once we''ve killed our enemies, I''lle find you," Tianxingzi said softly.


    Hearing Tianxingzi''s words, Zhongshan''s heart tightened. Because from Tianxingzi''s words, he sensed a hint of resolve. It seemed his master was also a person of deep emotions, living these years in great sorrow.


    "Ssh, ssh, ssh..."


    From the bamboo forest nearby, the sound of footsteps came. Zhongshan followed the sound and saw a man in coarse clothes walking out of the house.


    Mud Bodhisattva, it was Mud Bodhisattva! Was this house newly built by him? Had he been apanying this lonely grave all along? And the house by the pond, was it where the master lived?


    Tianxingzi didn''t look at Mud Bodhisattva, and Mud Bodhisattva didn''t look at Tianxingzi either. As Mud Bodhisattva approached, he held a bunch of flowers different from those in front of the grave and gently ced them in front of the tombstone, looking at the lonely grave with a sigh on his face.


    The two stood in a row, quietly watching, and Zhongshan timely stepped back behind them.


    "The sword that killed Wuyou, did you bring it?" Mud Bodhisattva said faintly, his eyes fixed on the lonely grave, never looking at Tianxingzi.


    "You finally decided to speak?" Tianxingzi slowly turned to Mud Bodhisattva, sighing.


    "Bring it out," Mud Bodhisattva said softly.


    Tianxingzi gently flipped his hand, and a thin ck sword suddenly appeared. The ck sword had no hilt and exuded an almost intangible aura, as if the ck sword didn''t exist at all.


    Mud Bodhisattva also turned his head, staring at the ck sword. His expression became extremely solemn, and even a monstrous killing intent surged in his eyes.


    "Stand back," Mud Bodhisattva said.


    Zhongshan and Tianxingzi quickly stepped aside, clearing a space.


    Mud Bodhisattva waved his hand.


    "Boom����!"


    With a loud noise, a massivepass, two meters tall and three meters in diameter, suddenlynded, half of it sinking into the ground, leaving one meter above the surface.


    "Click, click, click..."


    On thepass, eighteen rings began to rotate slowly, producing a continuous series of sounds. Suddenly, eight streams of energy surged in from all directions, shooting towards thepass. The eight streams of energy prated the center of thepass''s celestial pool, which was then shrouded by multi-colored clouds. The remaining rings gradually stopped, each aligning to a specific position. The area where thepass connected to the ground turned golden, seemingly fused together.


    Watching thepass, Tianxingzi''s eyes were full of anticipation, Zhongshan''s were filled with confusion and solemnity, while Mud Bodhisattva closed his eyes and took a deep breath.


    "Give it to me," Mud Bodhisattva said.


    Reluctantly, Tianxingzi handed the ck sword to Mud Bodhisattva.


    Holding the ck sword, Mud Bodhisattva red at it hatefully, then lightly traced a few lines on it with his fingers before throwing the ck sword into the celestial pool.


    In an instant, the ck sword was hidden by the clouds within the celestial pool,pletely obscured from view.


    "Heaven and Earth, Xuanhuang, the body floats, dreams transform a thousandfold, the universe, primordial chaos, plucking a flower, smiles awaken all..."


    Mud Bodhisattva seemed to be chanting a long incantation. As he chanted theplex incantation, the clouds in the celestial pool of thepass started to churn. The outer rings began to rotate again, not just on a single ne but forming seventeen spherical rings, revolving around thews of the celestial path.


    With the rotation of thepass rings, a dazzling golden light shot out from the mountainside, radiating in all directions. Many disciples of the Kaiyang Sect saw the extraordinary sight on the mountain but dared not approach, for that ce was forbidden within the sect.


    Zhongshan watched closely. As thepass rings rotated, it felt as if his entire mind was being immersed within, experiencing the creation and destruction of all things.


    Forcing himself to resist the desire, Zhongshan quickly shifted his gaze, ncing at Mud Bodhisattva, drenched in cold sweat. In that short moment, the pustules on Mud Bodhisattva''s face had multiplied, covering half of his face.


    Tianxingzi stared intently.


    After the time it takes for an incense stick to burn.


    "Click."


    The first ring stopped and settled on the surface of thepass.


    "Click, click, click."


    More and more rings stopped, all falling onto thepass''s surface. The golden light vanished, and thepass returned to its original state. Only the celestial pool area, once filled with multicolored clouds, was now dyed pitch ck. Gradually, the pitch-ck color floated into the air, forming four lines of small characters above the celestial pool.


    "The Nine Abysses of Demon Darkness rise, the Celestial Arts of Myriad Shadows form the body, a thousand days descend upon the human world, and blood ughter bes the Great Pill."


    The three of them stared at the four lines of characters, analyzing their meaning.


    "The Great Pill Sect of the Five Major Immortal Sects on Heavenly Wolf Ind?" Tianxingzi''s expression turned cold, clenching his fist, a fierce gleam shing in his eyes.


    "No, it means that after a thousand days, the demon who killed Wuyou will return to the Great Pill Sect and ughter it," Mud Bodhisattva said, his eyes also filled with a cold gleam.


    Upon hearing Mud Bodhisattva''s words, Tianxingzi raised an eyebrow and said, "Then we wait. Wait for a thousand days until the demon appears and ughters the Great Pill Sect."


    Tianxingzi showed no intention of saving the Great Pill Sect; instead, he seemed to look forward to the demon''s massacre. Zhongshan understood this sentiment; in a world without legal constraints, no one cared about the survival of other sects, especially when their demise could benefit oneself.


    "Hmm," Mud Bodhisattva nodded.


    It was clear that for the sake of avenging Nie Wuyou, Mud Bodhisattva also viewed life and death with indifference.


    Zhongshan remained silent; after all, this was amon human sentiment.


    Mud Bodhisattva waved his hand, and the massivepass was instantly put away. The sunken ground was also restored with a gesture from Tianxingzi.


    At this moment, Mud Bodhisattva suddenly turned his head to look at Zhongshan, a glint of surprise in his eyes.


    Seeing Mud Bodhisattva''s gaze, Zhongshan felt a twinge of apprehension.


    "Is this your disciple?" Mud Bodhisattva asked Tianxingzi.


    "Yes," Tianxingzi replied, looking at Zhongshan with a hint of satisfaction in his eyes.


    "The aura of an emperor. He actually has the aura of an emperor. If it weren''t for the ''Great Qian Compass'' absorbing the feng shui of heaven and earth, I wouldn''t have noticed. Your disciple is extraordinary," Mud Bodhisattva suddenly said.


    "The aura of an emperor?" Tianxingzi looked at Zhongshan in surprise.


    Upon hearing Mud Bodhisattva''s words, Zhongshan knew he couldn''t hide it any longer. Seeing his master looking at him, Zhongshan immediately said, "Master, I must inform you that in the mundane world, I have indeed established a puppet dynasty under my name called ''Great Jing''."


    "Oh?" A flicker of surprise passed through Tianxingzi''s eyes as he looked at Zhongshan again. The previous seriousness was suddenly reced with satisfaction.


    "No wonder, no wonder your cultivation has been so smooth, gathering the fortune of a nation. That''s why you''ve reached the eighth level of the innate realm," Tianxingzi remarked with a sense of wonder.


    "And you''ve even gained the recognition of the Supreme Emperor Xuan Sha. Truly, one cannot judge a person by their appearance," Mud Bodhisattva said, staring intently at Zhongshan with a look of astonishment.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha? The Supreme of the Wolf n?" This time, Tianxingzi was genuinely shocked. Establishing a puppet dynasty was within his understanding, but gaining the recognition of the Wolf n''s supreme leader was inconceivable.


    Staring intently at Zhongshan, Tianxingzi seemed to be waiting for his response.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan finally realized the terrifying insight of Mud Bodhisattva. This Mud Bodhisattva was too uncanny; how could he even know about this?


    "Yes, not long ago, I entered the Wolf Domain and, by chance, received the recognition of Emperor Xuan Sha. I established the national beast as the wolf, and in the recent siege of General Thunder, it was the wolves I summoned that yed a crucial role," Zhongshan replied earnestly. He asionally nced at Mud Bodhisattva with a hint of caution in his eyes.


    "Good, good. With this, I am even more at ease entrusting Ling''er to you," Tianxingzi said happily, as if ensuring Ling''er''s well-being was all that mattered.

 Chapter 139: One Fate, Two Luck, Three Feng Shui, Four Accumulated Virtue, Five Reputation

    <h4>Chapter 139: One Fate, Two Luck, Three Feng Shui, Four umted Virtue, Five Reputation</h4>


    "Master, rest assured. Ling''er is my wife, and I will treat her well. When I reach the Nascent Soul stage, I will bring her back and make her happy every day," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Tian Xingzi gazed at Zhong Shan for a while, sensing the sincerity and earnestness in his words, and then nodded.


    "Ni Pusa, your sect''s rule is to never reveal heavenly secrets without cause, or you will suffer divine retribution. You exposed Zhong Shan''s background just now. How will you resolve this?" Tian Xingzi immediately turned to Ni Pusa, clearly taking Zhong Shan''s side now that he was his son-inw.


    Ni Pusa nced at Tian Xingzi and nodded slightly. "You decide."


    Ni Pusa''s straightforwardness made it seem as if he had deliberately exposed Zhong Shan''s background. This made Zhong Shan furrow his brows slightly.


    Tian Xingzi looked at Zhong Shan, as if indicating for him to speak.


    Zhong Shan knew this was a great opportunity, but he didn''t know what to ask for.


    "Master, I do not know the extent of the senior''s abilities, so I don''t know what to ask for," Zhong Shan said immediately.


    Tian Xingzi looked at Zhong Shan with satisfaction and nodded.


    "Zhong Shan, do you know the difference between immortals and mortals?" Tian Xingzi asked gravely.


    Zhong Shan was slightly puzzled by the sudden question but still answered, "Immortals live forever, while mortals have limited lifespans."


    "Hmm, correct. Immortals live forever, but why do they live forever? Why do mortals have limited lifespans?" Tian Xingzi asked again.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan frowned. He had known about the concept but never really understood the reasoning behind it.


    "It''s because of fate. Mortals have the fate of mortals, and immortals have the fate of immortals. Different fates result in different lifespans. To be immortal is to defy heaven and change one''s fate, turning a mortal fate into an immortal fate. Therefore, all cultivation is not merely to increase one''s power; increasing power is just part of the process. The true goal is to defy heaven and change one''s fate, battling heaven with one''s fate. Only by doing so can one live forever and achieve the fate of an immortal," Tian Xingzi exined.


    Hearing Tian Xingzi''s exnation, Zhong Shan felt a shock in his heart. He realized that his previous understanding was too shallow. Immortality wasplex and not just about increasing cultivation.


    "I won''t question how you learned about establishing an imperial dynasty. I just want to tell you that since you have the method, make good use of it. With each promotion from a kingdom to an empire to a celestial dynasty, it is an opportunity to change your fate. When you reach the level of a celestial emperor, you will have the chance to battle heaven with your fate. If you seed, your fate will be that of an immortal, and you will achieve immortality," Tian Xingzi exined.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan responded immediately, understanding this important information.


    "One fate, two luck, three Feng Shui, four umted virtue, five reputation. Fate cannot be directly cultivated; the most one can do is cultivate the other four, thereby changing fate," Tian Xingzi said.


    "Luck? Feng Shui? umted virtue? Reputation?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    "Yes, your dynasty is cultivating reputation through the establishment of an imperial dynasty. Cultivating Feng Shui, umting virtue, and building reputation all rely on the positions given by heaven and earth. There''s no fixed order. Most people cultivate reputation, while few cultivate Feng Shui. In fact, there are only a few people in the world who cultivate Feng Shui, and Ni Pusa here is one of them. He holds a ''mid-level'' position in the heavenly hierarchy," Tian Xingzi exined.


    Zhong Shan was deeply shocked and thought for a moment before asking, "What about luck? How does one cultivate luck?"


    Tian Xingzi looked at Zhong Shan and said, "No one cultivates luck anymore. The knowledge of how to cultivate luck has been lost. It has been ten thousand years since anyone who cultivates luck has appeared in the Divine Continent."


    "Ten thousand years without a practitioner of luck cultivation? Is it very difficult to cultivate luck? How is it different?" Zhong Shan asked in astonishment.


    Zhong Shan asked, "Luck? ording to legend, there was such a person ten thousand years ago. Throughout the Divine Continent, only one person would appear at a time, able to discern the yin and yang of heaven and earth, predicting fortune and misfortune. This person could avoid disaster and seek fortune at all times. This is the true defiance of heaven''s will. However, this ability vanished ten thousand years ago and has never reappeared since," Tian Xingzi said with longing.


    Luck? Cultivating luck? Zhong Shan was shocked. This was too extraordinary, being able to constantly avoid disaster and seek fortune?


    This left only three methods of cultivation: cultivating reputation, which Zhong Shan was doing as an emperor with his ministers through establishing an imperial dynasty; cultivating Feng Shui, like Ni Pusa in front of him; and cultivating umted virtue.


    "Master, is our cultivation in the sect considered as cultivating umted virtue?" Zhong Shan asked in confusion.


    Tian Xingzi looked at Zhong Shan with satisfaction and said, "Correct. We are cultivating umted virtue. Cultivating oneself is umting inner virtue, and there is also outer virtue, which you are not yet capable of understanding. You will know in the future."


    "Yes," Zhong Shan replied immediately.


    "The art of Feng Shui is profound and extensive. It can ride, gather, harmonize, and define the energy, thereby enhancing the fortune of your kingdom. Although it seems intangible, it brings about fortune and smooth prosperity," Tian Xingzi exined to Zhong Shan.


    Immediately, Zhong Shan detected a hint from Tian Xingzi''s tone.


    Zhong Shan took out arge map and respectfully presented it to Ni Pusa. "Senior, I have established the Great Zheng Dynasty, but its foundation is shallow and the future uncertain. I hope the senior can guide me."


    Zhong Shan had already nned the future of the Great Zheng Dynasty, but with a Feng Shui master in front of him, he naturally wanted to hear his opinion. As his master said, the dragon veins of Feng Shui should align with the nation''s momentum to develop better. The map of Tian Lang Ind was drawn based on descriptions from Nan Batian and other members of the Kaiyang Sect, as well as the wolf cavalry.


    Looking at the map, Ni Pusa asked, "Where is the Great Zheng Dynasty located?"


    Zhong Shan quickly spread out the map and pointed to the central area of the three southern human regions.


    "Senior, it is here. Within three years, we will unify this area," Zhong Shan said.


    Ni Pusa looked at the map, then grabbed a twig and pointed, saying, "To stabilize the foundation of the Great Zheng Dynasty in this region, you must establish hundred-zhang stone dragons here and here, with their mouths facing outward and skyward. This will ward off evil energies, gather the fortune of heaven and earth, ride the rising energy, and define the national fortune of the Great Zheng. Only then can you expand into the other two regions, achieving unstoppable momentum and unity."


    After speaking, Ni Pusa fell silent as if he had said all that was necessary.


    "Thank you, Senior," Zhong Shan replied immediately.


    "Good. In a thousand days, you will apany us to the Tai Dan Sect. At that time, we will borrow your emperor''s aura," Ni Pusa said before turning to walk toward the house by the bamboo forest.


    Watching Ni Pusa''s back, Zhong Shan finally understood why Ni Pusa had revealed all this. Clearly, there was a step that required his involvement.


    However, for his master, Zhong Shan would have gone even without Ni Pusa''s instructions today.


    After Ni Pusa left, Tian Xingzi sighed slightly and then looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan," Tian Xingzi called.


    "Disciple is here," Zhong Shan responded immediately.


    Tian Xingzi took out a booklet, nced at it, then looked at Zhong Shan and said, "This is a technique I have prepared for you to practice during the Golden Core stage, the Thunder Prison Pure Yang Technique."


    Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback. He was only at the eighth level of the Innate stage, and his master was already preparing techniques for the Golden Core stage? It was too early, wasn''t it? No, his master''s tone sounded like he was giving final instructions.


    With a heavy heart, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said, "Yes, Master."


    Gently epting it, Zhong Shan did not feel much joy; his heart was filled with a sense of solemnity.


    "Go now, I will find you in a thousand days," Tian Xingzi said.


    "Yes, Master," Zhong Shan nodded immediately and retreated. Tian Xingzi remained in front of Nie Wuyou''s grave, continuing to watch.


    Zhong Shan returned to Ting Shui Pavilion, still filled with shock.


    Ni Pusa? A Feng Shui master. If he could be used for the Great Zheng Dynasty, it would be great. If it was truly as the master said, the Great Zheng Dynasty would prosper for a long time. However, Zhong Shan also knew that it was almost impossible to get Ni Pusa to work for the Great Zheng Dynasty, at least for now.


    Not to mention Ni Pusa''s cultivation, just his position in the heavens, being of middle rank, was not something the Great Zheng Dynasty could offer.


    ording to the records in "Creating the Heavenly Court," there are three ranks in the heavens: soft rank, middle rank, and upper rank. Right now, Zhong Shan hadn''t even reached the soft rank. How could he possibly invite someone of the middle rank?


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan suppressed this thought. Everything could wait untilter. The Great Zheng Dynasty would surely grow strong. Defying fate, he would change from a mortal fate to an immortal fate.


    "Zhong Shan," suddenly came the voice of Nan Batian from outside the pavilion.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly as he walked out. Since returning from the outside world, he hadn''t seen Nan Batian. ording to the master, Nan Batian was breaking through. Could it be that he had also reached the Golden Core stage?


    Stepping out of the courtyard, it was indeed Nan Batian.


    Nan Batian was holding a jar. When he saw Zhong Shan, he was delighted.


    "Ha ha, Zhong Shan, you''re really here. Come,e,e. I just got this from the master, Nine Spirits Ten Thousand Flowers Brew. Let''s taste it together," Nan Batianughed.


    Nine Spirits Ten Thousand Flowers Brew?


    "Is it wine?" Zhong Shan asked as he walked over, slightly puzzled.


    "Yes, it''s wine. However, this is not ordinary mortal wine. It could be considered a celestial brew. I''ve been craving it for a long time. When I reached the Golden Core stage, the master rewarded me with it from his collection," Nan Batian said excitedly.


    "Oh? Really?" Zhong Shan said, a bit surprised, then took out tworge bowls and ced them on the stone table.


    Seeing Zhong Shan being straightforward, Nan Batian generously ced the jar of wine on the table.


    He tore off the seal paper with his hand, and a refreshing fragrance filled Zhong Shan''s nose instantly, making him feel as if all his pores were breathing, an incrediblyfortable sensation.


    Just from the smell, Zhong Shan could tell this wine was extraordinary.


    "Good wine," Zhong Shan praised.


    "Of course," Nan Batianughed, picking up the jar and pouring the golden liquid into the tworge bowls on the table.


    The Nine Spirits Ten Thousand Flowers Brew was golden and transparent, with many small flower-like illusions in the liquid, making it incredibly beautiful. If not for the enticing aroma, one might feel reluctant to drink it.

 Chapter 140: The Trace of Bao鈥檈r

    <h4>Chapter 140: The Trace of Bao��er</h4>


    Lifting the bowl of "Nine Spirits Ten Thousand Blossoms Brew," Zhong Shan took a gentle sip. As the liquid entered his stomach, a surge of fiery energy rapidly spread through his abdomen.


    Zhong Shan immediately sat cross-legged, closed his eyes, and regted his breath. Following the flow of energy, he quickly began to impact his acupoints.


    "Boom, boom!"


    After a while, two muffled sounds echoed. Zhong Shan slowly opened his eyes, looking at Nan Batian with surprise. Was this really the "Nine Spirits Ten Thousand Blossoms Brew"? It was so powerful!


    "How do you feel?" Nan Batian asked with a smile.


    "Incredible," Zhong Shan nodded solemnly.


    "If it''s that good, drink more. I only have this one jar," Nan Batianughed.


    Zhong Shan didn''t stand on ceremony. He picked up therge bowl and drank with Nan Batian. Although the effects seemed to weaken over time, the brew still increased his true essence. The wine contained a considerable amount of spiritual energy.


    "Batian, do you know about the Tai Dan Sect?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Tai Dan Sect? One of the five great immortal sects on Sirius Ind? How could I not know?" Nan Batian responded immediately.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at Nan Batian.


    "Tai Dan Sect is the weakest of the five great immortal sects, but also the one you can''t afford to offend," Nan Batian said.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Because Tai Dan Sect is a sect of alchemists. Everyone in the sect is a master of alchemy. Although our Kaiyang Sect has people who can refine pills, our techniques and abilities are inferior to those of Tai Dan Sect. Instead of learning alchemy, it''s better to focus on cultivation. After all, life span is limited. In the limited time, it''s more important to enhance oneself. If you need pills, you can exchange them with spirit stones," Nan Batian exined.


    "Why can''t we offend them?" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "The people of Tai Dan Sect are mostly obsessed with alchemy. Although they neglect diligent cultivation, theypensate for their shorings with pills, as if they were eating beans. So, theirbat strength is not strong, but due to their alchemy, they have connections with many sects. Generally, they are the least to be offended," Nan Batian exined further.


    "Got it," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Zhong Shan, I''ve heard about Ling''er. No matter what, Ling''er and I grew up together. I''m relieved that she chose you," Nan Batian suddenly said with a serious expression.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan nodded at Nan Batian.


    "No need to thank me. Although Ling''er always calls me Little Nan, our rtionship is like that of siblings. It''s better for her to choose you than Senior Brother," Nan Batian said earnestly.


    "Senior Brother?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, Senior Brother may seem brilliant and talented, but I know he is arrogant and self-serving. He loves himself too much. Ling''er wouldn''t have a good oue with him," Nan Batian said, taking a sip of wine.


    Looking at Nan Batian, Zhong Shan nodded. Tian Sha was outwardly impressive but narrow-minded. Despite being a prodigy, he would eventually be ruined by his personality.


    "Zhong Shan, your secret techniquest time helped me break through. To thank you, I will be your sparring partner for the next year, fighting you every three days to stimte your cultivation," Nan Batian suddenly said.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan looked at him with deep gratitude. But between men, gratitude need not be spoken. The intention was enough.


    In the following days, Zhong Shan diligently cultivated, continuously impacting his acupoints. Repeatedly using the "Heavenly Demon Body Refinement Art," it seemed to elerate the opening of his acupoints. With Nan Batian''s assistance every three days, Zhong Shan''s cultivation speed increased significantlypared to before.


    At the same time, with the assistance of the Wolf n, the Dayan Dynasty garnered immense support from the popce. The citizens were unwavering in their loyalty, and the number of wolf cavalrymen steadily increased, though their cultivation levels were not particrly high.


    Within the Dayan Dynasty, Yinn, Zhong Zheng, and Lin Xiao had all stepped into the Xiantian realm. After Zhong Shan had selected cultivation techniques for everyone from the Kaiyang Sect''s scripture repository, their progress in cultivation had been exceptionally swift.


    Everyone was aware of Zhong Shan''s ambition. They understood that the Emperor''s goal was to conquer the Divine Continent, to wage war across thends, and to establish an unparalleled heavenly empire.


    It had been almost three years since Zhong Shan''s main body had returned to the Kaiyang Sect. During this time, the Dayan Dynasty''s national strength had flourished, and it officially went to war. The remaining three nations formed an alliance, but on the battlefield, the howl of the wolf cavalry caused the enemy''s horses to panic. When the battlemenced, it was like a hot knife through butter, driving straight towards the capitals of the three kingdoms.


    The three kingdoms, unable to resist, were defeated in just over three months. Their royal families surrendered and joined the Dayan Dynasty, bing ministers in its court.


    The Dayan Dynasty''s power reached unprecedented heights, bing incredibly formidable.


    In the Hall of Longevity:


    "Your Majesty, the six nations are unified, and all citizens are submissive," Yinn said excitedly, looking at Zhong Shan on the throne.


    In the grand hall, the ministers congratted each other.


    "Long live His Majesty! Long live, long live, long live!"


    Zhong Shan felt a wave of satisfaction in his heart. The first step had beenpleted, albeit a bit slower than he had hoped.


    "Zheng''er," Zhong Shan called out.


    "Your son is here," Zhong Zheng responded immediately.


    "How goes the construction of the nine hundred-zhang stone dragons?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Reporting to Father Emperor, half of them arepleted. In another half month, they will all be finished," Zhong Zheng replied.


    "Good. Once the stone dragons arepleted, in two months, gather the people and head to the eastern and western regions. Begin the task of opening up the mountains andnds, creating pathways to the other two domains. Introduce trains to the surface to transport the huge stones for strengthening Dayan''s infrastructure," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes," Zhong Zheng responded promptly.


    "Lin Xiao," Zhong Shan called next.


    "Your subject is here," Lin Xiao stepped forward and responded immediately.


    "Train the soldiers diligently. In a year''s time, you shall lead the first legion of the Dayan Dynasty to reim the seven nations of the Eastern Domain," Zhong Shanmanded solemnly.


    "Your subject obeys," Lin Xiao replied promptly.


    "Yinn," Zhong Shan called.


    "Your subject is here," Yinn stepped forward eagerly.


    "Intensify the training of the troops. In a year''s time, you shall lead the second legion of the Dayan Dynasty to reim the five nations of the Western Domain," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes," Yinn replied with excitement.


    One by one, Zhong Shan issued military and administrative orders, akin to the decrees of Heaven and Earth, continuously impacting the entire Dayan Dynasty and rapidly strengthening it, elevating it to new heights.


    At the same time, on the desk before Zhong Shan, the imperial seal emitted a faint yellow glow. Not only did it deepen its connection with Zhong Shan, but it also rapidly gathered the nation''s fortune, earthly luck, and heavenly luck, enhancing its might.


    Everything proceeded in an orderly manner. Meanwhile, in a secluded valley in the northwest of Sirius Ind, on the Divine Continent, therey an incredibly deep gorge.


    Within the valley, a clear spring flowed, and beside the spring stood a ten-zhang giant cauldron. Next to the giant cauldron was a small thatched hut.


    The hut emitted a faint red glow, resembling a small formation, isting the inside from the outside world. Outside the hut stood three elders, two men and one woman, their hair mostly gray, faces etched with wrinkles. The three elders kept their gaze fixed on the hut, frowning and sighing, their eyes filled with worry.


    Inside the hut, on a couch,y an elderly woman. Her face was extremely haggard, herplexion pale, as if she were clinging to life by a thread. She leaned weakly on the edge of the couch, looking at a young woman kneeling before her.


    The young woman kneeling before the elderly woman had a remarkably delicate face. Her hair was tied up with a simple jade hairpin, and she wore in clothes. Yet, even such simple attire could not conceal her peerless beauty. Herrge eyes radiated a gentle sweetness, and even in her sorrowful state, she evoked great sympathy.


    "Master," the young woman said, looking worriedly at the elderly woman.


    "Bao''er, these past decades, I haven''t let you leave. Do you still resent me for it?" the elderly woman asked with difficulty.


    "Disciple does not resent you," Bao''er shook her head immediately.


    "You don''t have tofort me. Over the years, I''ve seen you daydreaming while staring at the jade hairpin in your hair, calling out ''Master'' in your dreams every day. I know you still can''t forget him. I can no longer control you," the elderly woman said with difficulty.


    "Master, you will get better. Didn''t you say that the ''Heaven and Earth Mysterious Yellow Cauldron'' in the sect contains the Heavenly Yuan Divine Pill? For those below the Conjoined Stage, just one pill can break through a level''s barrier. If Master takes one, you can extend your life by another eight hundred years," Bao''er said quickly.


    "Foolish child, you know well that I died a hundred years ago. It was only by using the ''Soul Locking Pill'' to bind my soul to my body that I''ve lingered in this half-dead state until now. The Heavenly Yuan Divine Pill won''t work. A hundred years... I''ve been content with a hundred years. Moreover, I''ve found a sessor in you. With you inheriting my legacy, I can die in peace," the elderly woman said solemnly.


    "Master," Bao''er''s eyes brimmed with tears.


    Gently, the elderly woman wiped away Bao''er''s tears with her hand.


    "I took you as my disciple for a reason. As you know, among the physiques of women in the world, the best is the Nine Cauldrons Body. You possess the most unique ''Central Cauldron Body.'' Only with this body can you inherit my legacy. Do not tell anyone about your physique, other than the two of us," the elderly woman instructed.


    "Hmm," Bao''er responded, tears streaming down her face.


    "The three outside are elders of our Tai Dan Sect, all of them at the Conjoined Stage. Use them wisely. I have nothing left to teach you," the elderly woman said, looking lovingly at Bao''er.


    "Hmm," Bao''er replied, her tears falling uncontrobly.


    "Bring your storage bracelet. I will transfer all my belongings to you," the elderly woman said.


    "Master," Bao''er said, looking tearfully at her master, her heart filled with sorrow.


    "Hurry," the elderly woman urged.


    "Hmm," Bao''er finally extended her delicate wrist.


    The elderly woman smiled faintly and touched the two bracelets together. With a sh of green light, a vast amount of items transferred into Bao''er''s bracelet.


    Satisfied, the elderly woman looked at Bao''er and smiled gently. "Everything of the Tai Dan Sect is now in your hands. Only the sect master knows of these items. Whether the sect can regain its glory from ten thousand years ago depends on you. I do not expect you to, as I couldn''t achieve such glory for the Tai Dan Sect myself."


    "Master, please don''t leave," Bao''er pleaded, clutching the elderly woman''s arm, her eyes filled with tears.


    "Hehe, silly child. It''s not that I don''t want to stay, but I can no longer hold on. Let the three elderse in. While I am still here, I will pave the way for you," the elderly woman said, stroking Bao''er''s hair lovingly.


    "Hmm," Bao''er replied tearfully, sniffing as she nodded.

 Chapter 141: The Eternal Pill Scroll

    <h4>Chapter 141: The Eternal Pill Scroll</h4>


    Bao''er walked to the door of the small hut and withdrew a small g from the formation. The red glow outside the hut receded quickly as the formation was dismantled. She wiped her tears and immediately opened the door.


    Outside, the three elders stood with worried expressions. As soon as the door opened, they all fixed their gaze on Bao''er.


    "Master has asked you toe in," Bao''er said immediately.


    The three elders nodded, each frowning as they stepped inside. Once inside, they quickly gathered around the elderly woman''s bed.


    "Sect Master," the three called out in unison.


    "Three elders, your junior sister is really leaving this time," the elderly woman said with a faint smile.


    The three elders frowned deeply, their faces showing clear concern.


    "Hehe, I have called you here today to witness something important," the elderly woman said.


    The three elders seemed to realize something, each taking a deep breath. They appeared to have anticipated the Sect Master''s words and looked extremely solemn.


    "Bao''er, kneel down," the elderly womanmanded.


    "Master," Bao''er, with tears in her eyes, gently knelt before the elderly woman.


    The elderly woman looked very serious as she reached out and grasped something from between her eyebrows. She pulled out what looked like a bronze scroll, encased in a halo of light, and norger than a fingernail.


    As the bronze scroll was extracted, the elderly woman''s hair turnedpletely white and then withered, bing terrifyingly frail. The three elders, however, stared intently at the bronze scroll, their eyes filled with longing.


    Looking at Bao''er, the elderly woman said with difficulty, "The Tai Dan Sect has two treasures: the Heaven and Earth Mysterious Yellow Cauldron and this ''Eternal Pill Scroll.'' The Eternal Pill Scroll is the essence of Tai Dan Sect, and the Heaven and Earth Mysterious Yellow Cauldron is its foundation. As long as the Eternal Pill Scroll is passed down, the Tai Dan Sect will flourish endlessly. Today, I officially pass it to the 72nd Sect Master of Tai Dan Sect, Gan Bao''er. From this day forward, Gan Bao''er is the 72nd Sect Master. All disciples must fully support the new Sect Master. Any who show negligence will have their cultivation abolished and be expelled from the sect."


    "Yes," the three elders responded immediately.


    The elderly woman then transferred the Eternal Pill Scroll into Bao''er''s forehead with a touch.


    "Master," Bao''er cried, clutching the elderly woman''s sleeve.


    In this short moment, the elderly woman''s face became more wrinkled, herplexion even paler, and dark spots, like those on a corpse, began to appear.


    The elderly woman looked lovingly at Bao''er and then at the three elders before speaking again. "Yao Yu, Yao Chen, Yao Lu."


    The three elders'' expressions became more serious, as the Sect Master had called them by their names, something she rarely did.


    "Yes," the three elders replied promptly.


    "You are my seniors, and also Bao''er''s seniors. Bao''er is young andcks authority, but you should understand that only through the inheritance of the Eternal Pill Scroll can Bao''er grow, and you will benefit from it. ording to the rules of Tai Dan Sect, the Sect Master makes all decisions. I, being at the Nascent Soul stage, couldn''t lead you to higher cultivation levels, causing you to stall at the Conjoined Stage. But Bao''er is different. She is more talented than I am and will surpass me. Your fates are tied to Bao''er''s sess," the elderly woman said, her eyes fixed on the three elders.


    Hearing the elderly woman''s words, the three elders looked at Bao''er with solemn expressions and replied, "Yes."


    "Bao''er," the elderly woman turned her gaze back to Bao''er.


    "Master," Bao''er''s tears had never stopped flowing.


    Struggling, she extended her right palm and gently wiped the cheek of Bao''er, the elderly woman looking at her with a faint smile. "Bao''er, your master must leave. I have used the Soul-Locking Pill to tether my soul for a hundred years. Though my physical body hasn''t grown, I''ve preserved it with countless elixirs. After I depart, ce my body in the Eight-Eared Fire Cauldron outside the house to prevent it from falling into the hands of the demons. Take my ashes and bury them in the tomb of the Tai Dan Sect''s previous masters."


    With those words, the elderly woman''s hand ckened, slipping away. Yet, at that moment, her face shimmered with silver light.


    "Master~~~~~~"


    Bao''er cried out, but her master would never awaken again.


    Bao''er held onto the elderly woman, weeping for nearly an hour. The three senior elders nearby sighed softly. Among them, the female elder spoke gently, "Master, the former sect leader has passed away. Fulfill herst wish, burn her body in the fire, lest it falls into the hands of demons."


    Bao''er remained silent, only crying incessantly. After a while, she gently rose, carrying her master''s body alone to the outskirts of the thatched cottage, where she slowly ced it into the cauldron beside the mountain spring.


    Standing by the cauldron, tears streamed down Bao''er''s face. Although her master hadn''t allowed her to leave for decades, she had cared for Bao''er in every possible way, earning a ce in Bao''er''s heart akin to a mother. Now that her master was gone, Bao''er was filled with sorrow.


    Kneeling before therge cauldron, the three senior elders controlled the fire to cremate the body, while memories flooded Bao''er''s mind, leaving her heart heavy with grief.


    An hourter, the three senior elders finished their task and approached Bao''er.


    "Master," they addressed her.


    Bao''er wiped her tears, her eyes filled with sadness, and walked alone to the cauldron, slowly collecting her master''s ashes and cing them in a small urn. Gazing at the urn, Bao''er felt an overwhelming sense of nostalgia.


    "Elder Yaoyu," Bao''er suddenly called out to one of the elders.


    "Yes, Master," one of the elders stepped forward.


    "This cauldron burned my master. It shouldn''t remain in this world. Destroy it," Bao''er said calmly.


    Hearing Bao''er''s words, the three elders felt a pang. The Eight-Eared Fire Cauldron was a fifth-grade artifact. How could they destroy such a precious treasure just because it had cremated the former sect leader?


    From this, the three elders realized that although the new sect master was extremely gentle and kind to those close to her, she showed no mercy to her enemies. Just like the former sect leader, even though she was a woman, she had dominated the sect.


    "Yes," Elder Yaoyu immediately responded.


    "Master, what are our ns?" another elder asked promptly.


    "Prepare to leave Shenzhou this afternoon and head to Tiang Ind to return to our sect and bury our master," Bao''ermanded.


    "Yes," the three senior eldersplied.


    Bao''er carried the urn into the thatched cottage, tidying up before gently flipping her hand and storing the urn in her storage bracelet. She checked the items left by her master inside the bracelet, a tinge of sadness shing in her eyes as she saw the numerous elixirs left for her.


    Slowly, Bao''er found a withered flower inside the storage bracelet. Staring at the dried-up blossom, a rare smile appeared on Bao''er''s face.


    Gently, she took it out, staring at the flower for a while before murmuring to herself, "Old Master, Bao''er ising back. You''re already 87 years old. You must wait for Bao''er. You must stay alive when Bao''er returns. You must, you must..." ��


    In the Great Jing Dynasty, north of Xuanjing City, atop a high mountain, a figure dressed in ck with a bamboo hat gazed at the bustling city from afar.


    Standing atop the high mountain, the figure in ck sighed softly.


    "Adoptive father, Neen has already left thend of Shenzhou. This unfilial child must also depart. The Great L��ng Dynasty, hehe, the Great L��ng Dynasty," the figure murmured to himself, expressing a sense of world-weariness, remorse, and determination.


    As the figure spoke to himself, a flying sword suddenly appeared in the sky,nding in front of him with an elderly man with a white beard atop it.


    "Let''s go," the old man said.


    "Yes, Master," the figure nodded, stepping onto the flying sword.


    With a flick of the old man''s foot, the sword carried them swiftly northwestward��


    Tiang Ind, at the end of a long mountain range, atop the highest peak.


    Three individuals stood on a prominent boulder: Zhongshan, Ti��nx��ngzi, and N�� P��s��.


    They stood together on the stone, surrounded by runes imbued with hues of ck and yellow, constantly flickering and vanishing as if they were alive.


    "Elder, by painting these runes, will outsiders be unable to see the three of us?" Zhongshan asked with skepticism in his eyes.


    "Underneath us lies a dragon vein, and you carry a trace of the Emperor''s Qi, also known as the Dragon Qi. By using the ''Great Array of Harmonizing Dragon''s Veins,'' I''m connecting your Dragon Qi with the Dragon Qi of this dragon vein. Everything within the array will merge with the heavens and earth, rendering it invisible and imperceptible to outsiders," N�� P��s�� exined.


    "They won''t sense anything at all?" Ti��nx��ngzi frowned slightly.


    "Go and check if you don''t believe me," N�� P��s�� nodded.


    Ti��nx��ngzi flew out of the area and looked back at where Zhongshan was. After concentrating and even taking out a fist-sized crystal-like object, he flew back.


    "Master, it''s truly invisible?" Zhongshan eximed in surprise.


    N�� P��s�� shook his head with a lightugh, clearly confident. Ti��nx��ngzi handed the crystal-like object to Zhongshan.


    "Memory Crystal. It records images for a certain period. This one contains what I just saw," Ti��nx��ngzi exined.


    "Got it," Zhongshan took it immediately. Memory Crystals were recorded in the Odd Treasure Pavilion and could capture images for a set time.


    Zhongshan activated his True Essence, and within the crystal, there was the scene that Ti��nx��ngzi had recorded earlier. A mountain peak,pletely deserted, with no sign of the rune array visible.


    At that moment, Zhongshan truly believed in Feng Shui masters. What a miraculous ability!


    "Alright, we''re approaching the Tai Dan Sect. The demons will be here soon," N�� P��s�� suddenly spoke.


    "Understood," everyone nodded, falling silent and watching intently from their vantage point.

 Chapter 142: The Terrifying Demons

    <h4>Chapter 142: The Terrifying Demons</h4>


    Where Zhongshan and hispanions stood was the summit of a high mountain.


    Below them to the west was a square, with a massive stele inscribed with the words "Tai Dan Sect" on its side. To the northy the Tai Dan Sect, shrouded in mist, its interior indiscernible, clearly protected by an illusionary formation.


    And directly south of the Tai Dan Sect was the square that Zhongshan and the others could see.


    "Master, ording to what you''ve said, disciples of the Tai Dan Sect rarely leave the mountain gate. Why are there so many out today?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows, directing his question to Tianxingzi.


    "The Tai Dan Sect has a rule: once every ten years, disciples must travel the world. They must return no sooner than a monthter. Without this rule, they would be wholly devoted to alchemy and would hardly ever leave the mountain gate. With this outing, there are now no more than fifty people left in the Tai Dan Sect," Tianxingzi exined, gazing down below.


    "Did the demons choose today because of this?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "The mountain defense formation of the Tai Dan Sect is as strong as that of the Kaiyang Sect. Even with only fifty people guarding it, it''s difficult to breach," Tianxingzi said.


    Just as Tianxingzi finished speaking, a strange figure appeared in front of the Tai Dan Sect.


    The conversation between Zhongshan and Tianxingzi came to an abrupt halt. The figure was strange, the most peculiar kind of figure d in ck robes.


    Zhongshan saw a figure that seemed human yet not quite human because it was wrapped in a ck robe, t as a board.


    The distance between the two shoulders was less than the width of a palm, and the head seemed t, only about a finger wide. In other words, the distance between the left and right ears was only about the length of a finger, with the entire head squeezed toward the center, ttened. From Zhongshan''s angle, he could just make out the faint outline of the head through the ck robe. It looked like the head of a fish, with two eyes on either side, protruding while fixated on the array in front.


    Was this a person?


    Zhongshan widened his eyes. How could a person look like this?


    If it weren''t for seeing his two legs and two arms, Zhongshan would never have believed he was human. This wasn''t a human, it didn''t feel like one at all. A ttened person? Like a nk stood upright.


    Zhongshan swallowed hard; was this the demon? It was too strange, too terrifying; any ordinary person would be terrified at a nce. A ttened person?


    "What a strange demonic art," Ni Pusa couldn''t help but sigh.


    Demonic art? To turn a person into this appearance?


    Tianxingzi, on the other hand, clenched his fists, feeling a slight trembling throughout his body, his eyes fixed on the demonic figure below, neither human nor ghost.


    Zhongshan took a deep breath, seeing such a bizarre demon for the first time.


    But, it wasn''t over yet. Zhongshan suddenly saw the ttened demon''s figure shimmer slightly.


    "Hum~~~~~~~"


    Zhongshan immediately rubbed his eyes, looking incredulous. Behind the ttened demon, with a single flicker, two more figures suddenly appeared, two figures exactly like the demon. Two more demons?


    Zhongshan stared intently because he found that the two demons that appearedter were absolutely identical to the previous one, whether it was their clothes, their ttened shapes, or even the face that could no longer be called a face, with a mole on it, all exactly the same.


    How could this be? Even after Zhongshan rubbed his eyes, there were still three demons, three identical demons. Before Zhongshan could regain his senses, the demon in the distance moved again.


    With a slight sway, three more identical demons appeared. With another sway, in the blink of an eye, there were nearly a hundred demons on the square below, each with the same appearance, incredibly bizarre, as if they were all the same person.


    "Why do this group of people all look the same?" Zhongshan eximed in utter astonishment.


    "No, this isn''t a group of people; it''s just one person," N�� P��s�� shook his head.


    Within the rune array, their voices naturally couldn''t be heard.


    "One person? How could this be just one person?" Zhongshan eximed in amazement, his eyes wide.


    "It is one person. It''s just that due to practicing ''demonic arts,'' he has created so many clones. The technique of ''Myriad Shadows of Heaven''s Power'' is truly extraordinarily demonic," N�� P��s�� said coldly.


    Tianxingzi, however, remained silent, his eyes fixed on the figure below, watching silently.


    The lead demon stared coldly at the array before him, while the ny-nine demons he had conjured up behind him rushed towards the Tai Dan Sect''s array.


    Zhongshan saw that when the original ny-nine figures reached the array, their forms faded and then vanished like a puff of smoke.


    "Breaching the array?" N�� P��s�� eximed in amazement.


    This demon was too strange. After creating ny-nine clones, all of them actually charged into the array in such a casual manner, as if the array didn''t even exist.


    "Yes, it''s him, it''s him, the one who intruded into the Kaiyang Sect without warning. It''s him," Tianxingzi''s face flushed red, his voice trembling with rage, as if he were choosing his prey.


    Hearing Tianxingzi''s words, N�� P��s��''s eyes narrowed, and with a turn of his hand, a phantom-likepass appeared, ring angrily at thest demon outside the array, as if he were about to strike at any moment.


    "Smack!" A hand fell on N�� P��s��''s shoulder.


    N�� P��s��''s expression turned annoyed as he turned to look, only to see Tianxingzi grabbing his shoulder, his eyes bloodshot, exuding a murderous aura between his brows, as if he were restraining himself, preventing N�� P��s�� from taking action.


    N�� P��s�� waited for Tianxingzi, but Tianxingzi shook his head.


    "What are you doing?" N�� P��s�� snapped angrily.


    "Wait a little longer. I want to wipe out his entire n," Tianxingzi said through gritted teeth, restraining his anger.


    Wipe out his entire n? Zhongshan frowned as he listened from the side. Indeed, Tianxingzi was also a ruthless person.


    Hearing what Tianxingzi said, N�� P��s��''s initial anger subsided. He had originally intended to obliterate the demonic figure, but upon hearing Tianxingzi''s words, he realized he had been too direct. Tianxingzi wanted to wait for the demon to reveal his true intentions and maximize the vengeance for No Worries.


    Suppressing his anger, Tianxingzi and N�� P��s�� both stared down below.


    Ever since he saw this demon, Zhongshan had a strange feeling, especially when the demon multiplied into a hundred. At that moment, Zhongshan''s feeling grew even stronger. Zhongshan recorded the demon''s peculiarities with the memory crystal given to him by his master, intending to study it carefully when he returned.


    The demon stared at the array before him. Suddenly, his eyebrows, on both sides, furrowed sharply. Immediately, he surveyed his surroundings, as if he sensed someone spying on him.


    After a while of scanning, he didn''t see any figures; all he saw was a ck snake swimming in the distance.


    Pointing his finger, the distant ck snake exploded with a bang. As if shaking off his doubts, the demon turned his gaze back to the Tai Dan Sect''s array.


    Just then, from the distance, four figures flew in from the sky.


    All four were dressed in ck robes andnded behind the demon, showing utmost respect.


    "Shadow Sect?"


    Tianxingzi spoke each word slowly, as if his teeth were clenched, his eyes filled with a chilling murderous intent, a murderous intent that seemed to permeate the heavens.


    Hearing Tianxingzi''s words, Zhongshan frowned. Shadow Sect? One of the Five Great Immortal Sects?


    "Master," Zhongshan looked at Tianxingzi with some concern.


    But Tianxingzi, at this moment, gently opened his eyes, smiled slightly, and the previous overwhelming anger seemed to dissipate into thin air.


    "Don''t worry," Tianxingzi reassured Zhongshan calmly.


    Seeing the sudden calmness of his master, Zhongshan became even more nervous instead of rxing. He stared at Tianxingzi and suddenly asked, "Master, do you intend to eradicate the Shadow Sect along with this?"


    Hearing Zhongshan''s question, Tianxingzi''s eyes lit up with a burst of murderous intent, and the temperature around them suddenly dropped.


    Staring at Zhongshan, Tianxingzi took a deep breath to calm his anger, and said to Zhongshan, "Indeed, you''ve figured it out. I want to eliminate not only this demon but also the entire Shadow Sect. The demon is actually the former patriarch of the Shadow Sect, Shadowless..."


    Although Tianxingzi''s anger surged, when Zhongshan pointed it out, he revealed a hint of sorrow.


    Seeing his master like this, Zhongshan became even more worried. He sensed that something was wrong and couldn''t help but recall his master''s tone from over two years ago when he talked about arrangements for the future. Zhongshan''s worry intensified.


    "Master, when you destroy the Shadow Sect, please take your disciple with you," Zhongshan earnestly requested.


    Looking at Zhongshan, Tianxingzi could feel Zhongshan''s good intentions. However, he still shook his head. "Your cultivation level is too low."


    "No, Master, in the past three years, I have reached the ninth level of Innate. If there is real danger, I can summon the peak Golden Core stage Great Wolf with all my strength. Even if I can''t resist, I still have a chance to escape," Zhongshan said firmly.


    Staring at Zhongshan for a moment, Tianxingzi''s eyes shed with a hint of admiration and warmth in his heart.


    "Alright, I will take you with me when the timees," Tianxingzi took a deep breath and said.


    "Yes," Zhongshan nodded. Even though he knew there would be danger, Zhongshan still chose to go, not for any benefit, but for his master, for Ling''er''s father, for Tianxingzi.

 Chapter 143: If Heaven Has Emotions, Heaven Will Also Grow Old

    <h4>Chapter 143: If Heaven Has Emotions, Heaven Will Also Grow Old</h4>


    During the conversation between Zhongshan and Tianxingzi, below the square, the demon and four disciples of the Shadow Sect silently watched therge array in front of them.


    After half an hour of waiting, suddenly, there was a flicker at the edge of the Tai Dan Sect''srge array in the distance, and the first demon avatar came out, seeming to be covered in a lot of blood.


    The demon avatar ignored therge array and, the moment it appeared, shot straight towards the demon''s main body.


    "Whoosh..."


    The avatar merged with the main body, leaving a pool of blood on the ground. Then, another demon avatar appeared, and more and more demons that had previously entered rushed out, quickly merging with the main body.


    Zhongshan had been watching all along, and finally, at this moment, Zhongshan understood why he had that strange feeling before. Main body, avatars? Main body, hidden forms? It seemed somewhat simr to his own abilities, except he had a hundred avatars, while he only had one hidden form. And Zhongshan was clear that he could only have one; it couldn''t be more.


    Just then, at the entrance of therge array, a group of demon avatars finally brought out their purpose for this time.


    It was a cauldron, ten zhang high, which is about thirty-three meters, a giant cauldron almost ten stories high. The cauldron had eight wind holes, faintly revealing a hint of firelight inside. It seemed like this cauldron was burning constantly, with mes inside.


    The cauldron was bronze in color, with arge number of ancient and majestic runes floating above it. The space around it was twisted and distorted, appearing slightly unreal. But Zhongshan, over the years, gradually understood the reason for the distortion of the space around the giant cauldron. It wasn''t space distortion, it was spiritual energy. A cauldron that could absorb spiritual energy on its own?


    Zhongshan stared wide-eyed as the cauldron had fourrge characters engraved on its lid in a circle.


    Heaven��Earth��Profound��Yellow!


    "The Tai Dan Sect''s Heaven and Earth Profound Yellow Cauldron really exists, it''s not just a legend," Tianxingzi said in a deep voice.


    "Boom..."


    The Heaven and Earth Profound Yellow Cauldron was lifted out of therge array and ced on the ground. Then, the demon avatars quickly rushed towards the demon''s main body and merged with it in an instant.


    "Take the cauldron, let''s go back to the sect," the demon uttered in a sharp and eerie voice.


    "Yes," the four disciples of the Shadow Sect immediately responded.


    Then, one of them quickly took out a piece of cloth, covered the ten-zhang-high cauldron, and did some decorations. In an instant, the cauldron was wrapped up like a small mountain.


    "Let''s go..."


    The demon said and flew off. The four disciples of the Shadow Sect immediately lifted the cauldron and rushed away in one direction.


    "Why don''t they just store the cauldron in a storage bracelet?" Zhongshan asked in confusion.


    "The Heaven and Earth Profound Yellow Cauldron already has its own spiritual essence, just like a person has a soul. It can absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth with each breath, so it can''t be stored in a dead space like a storage bracelet," Tianxingzi exined with narrowed eyes as he watched the direction the demon was heading.


    "Okay, Master, when will we take action?" Zhongshan asked again.


    "Twenty-five dayster, during the centennial celebration of the Shadow Sect. At that time, the disciples of the Shadow Sect will definitely gather there," Tianxingzi said, his eyes narrowed, his tone chilling.


    "Yes," Zhongshan nodded, looking at Tianxingzi''s frenzied expression, a hint of worry shing in his eyes.


    In the dense forest of Tiang Ind,te at night twenty-five dayster.


    Tianxingzi, Nipusa, Zhongshan, Gulongzi, and Xuanxinzi stood solemnly.


    In the distance was arge array, with a stele erected in front of the square, inscribed with the words "Shadow Sect."


    "Senior Brother, do we really need to use the Big Dipper Seven Stars Formation?" Gulongzi looked at Tian Xingzi with a hint of worry in her eyes.


    At this moment, Tian Xingzi seemed to be extremely calm, with no trace of anger in his eyes.


    "Yes, only the Big Dipper Seven Stars Formation can trap and kill the people of the Shadow Sect. It''s time to avenge Wuyou. The foundation items for the various formations are already in ce. The stars Tian Shu, Tian Xuan, Tian Ji, and Tian Quan in the Kui region will be entrusted to you and Junior Sister. The three stars Yuheng, Kaiyang, and Yaoguang in the Ladle region will be controlled by me," Tian Xingzi said to Gulongzi and Xuanxinzi.


    "Senior Brother, remember the promise you made to Nie Wuyou back then. Don''t do anything foolish," Gulongzi said worriedly.


    "Haha, you''re overthinking it, Junior Sister. I still have to watch Ling''er grow up, how could I do something foolish? Don''t worry, this time is just to avenge Wuyou. After so many years, the time has finallye. Besides, it''s not too difficult to destroy the Shadow Sect," Tian Xingzi immediatelyughed.


    However, it was precisely Tian Xingzi''s heartyughter at this moment that felt even more abnormal. Gulongzi and Xuanxinzi didn''t notice anything unusual, so they could only nod, still worried, and flew away into the distance.


    After Xuanxinzi and Gulongzi left, Tian Xingzi''s expression turned cold.


    "Master." Zhong Shan quickly knelt on one knee, looking anxious.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Tian Xingzi shook his head, "Zhong Shan, don''t try to dissuade me. I know you''ve seen through my true intentions, but no one can stop me. After your mistress died, my heart died with her. If it weren''t for Ling''er and the need to avenge Wuyou, I would have followed Wuyou back then. Now, Ling''er is entrusted to you, and the great revenge is about to be avenged. My heart is at ease. I''ve never felt so at ease in decades."


    "Master, the deceased are gone, please take care of yourself!" Zhong Shan tried to persuade again.


    "Hahaha, if heaven has emotions, heaven will also grow old. Everyone has different pursuits. I don''t seek immortality. What I want is to be with Wuyou, even in death, to be together in theherworld. Wuyou has been waiting for me for a long time, I must go. Don''t try to persuade me," Tian Xingzi immediately interrupted Zhong Shan.


    "Sigh, Tian Xingzi, I finally understand why Wuyou chose you back then. I wasn''t worthy of her," Nipusa sighed softly.


    Zhong Shan looked at Tian Xingzi, took a deep breath, and silently stood aside, no longer trying to persuade him. Because Zhong Shan could understand Tian Xingzi''s feelings, perhaps death was the best destination for his master. Even if Zhong Shan was unwilling, he couldn''t change Tian Xingzi''s determination.


    Looking at Nipusa, Tian Xingzi took a deep breath, "When Ying Wuxie''s avatars appear, clean them all up. Also, take care of Zhong Shan for me. Wait for my return."


    Nipusa didn''t speak, just closed his eyes and nodded.


    Seeing Nipusa nod, Tian Xingzi took a deep breath, flew forward, and then soared into the sky.


    With a wave of his hand, a purpledle suddenly appeared in Tian Xingzi''s hand.


    In the high sky, holding the purpledle, Tian Xingzi''s body was suddenly enveloped in a blinding light. In an instant, Tian Xingzi seemed to be wrapped in a giant sun. The huge light ball shone brightly, illuminating everything around. For a moment, the night in this area was turned into day.


    The giant light ball, a hundred zhang wide, enveloped Tian Xingzi. Zhong Shan saw not only Tian Xingzi but also six other giant light balls in the distance.


    Seven giant light balls, like seven stars, emitted dazzling light. The formation they arranged was exactly like the shape of the Big Dipper in the sky.


    As soon as the seven giant light balls appeared, they suddenly connected, forming argedle-shaped area that shone with endless brilliance.


    For a moment, the distant Ghost Shadow Sect''s grand formation waspletely enveloped in a bright light, forming a gigantic crystalline wall-like structure. Zhongshan could see numerous flying swords rushing out from within the Ghost Shadow Sect.


    "Dang! Dang! Dang..."


    After a series of collisions, countless flying swords were forcefully repelled back by the crystalline wall, making echoing sounds as they returned.


    As the grand formation of the Ghost Shadow Sect withdrew, almost everyone sensed the impending danger. With the formation gone, the disciples of the Ghost Shadow Sect frantically flew outward. However, the crystalline wall-like grand formation prevented them from escaping even a bit, rebounding them all back.


    Zhongshan sighed as he watched this scene unfold. The Big Dipper Formation? Trapping a sect?


    In the midst of Zhongshan''s astonishment, the voice of Tianxingzi suddenly emanated from the massive ball of light in the sky.


    "Open Yang Wuqu Star, with my lifespan, connect the seven stars, summon star fire, burn the demonic evils," Tianxingzi bellowed.


    "No~~~" Xuanxinzi''s panicked voice echoed from afar.


    "Elder Brother~~~" Another voice, filled with sorrow, came from another direction, belonging to Gusangzi.


    While Zhongshan took a deep breath, observing carefully, Mud Bodhisattva beside him sighed deeply with closed eyes.


    "Bastard~~~" A sudden furious shout erupted from within the Ghost Shadow Sect.


    A figure d in ck robes suddenly shot out, darting straight towards the crystalline-like wall of the Big Dipper Formation.


    "Bang!~~~"


    That section of the crystalline wall shattered abruptly, but in the blink of an eye, the shattered part reformed into an even thicker crystalline barrier.


    At this moment, Zhongshan didn''t look towards the figure in ck, but instead, he widened his eyes and looked upwards.


    Apart from the brightness here, the distant starry sky suddenly darkened, leaving only seven huge stars emitting dazzling light.


    The Big Dipper, it was the Big Dipper. Zhongshan wasn''t sure about the scenes elsewhere, but he knew that in the sky he could see, only the Big Dipper remained.


    The Big Dipper above seemed to resonate with the Big Dipper Formation below, and suddenly, a vast and intense light descended from the stars, directly onto the Big Dipper Formation in front of them.


    The brightness of the formation surged, making it impossible for Zhongshan to see anything inside. It was too bright, like the sun, filled with dazzling light.


    Harnessing the power of the Big Dipper stars? Zhongshan widened his eyes. What kind of grand formation was this? A battle formation? A static formation? Harnessing the power of the stars? Shifting constetions?


    "Ah~~~ Ah~~~ Ah~~~"


    From within the intensely illuminated grand formation, countless screams suddenly resounded. The sounds were so mournful, as if the people inside were enduring the burning of countless heavenly fires, experiencing endless pain and misery.

 Chapter 144: The Scripture of Myriad Shadows

    <h4>Chapter 144: The Scripture of Myriad Shadows</h4>


    At the location of Tiang Ind, almost all the strong cultivators from various sects suddenly looked up at the sky. Each of them felt something unusual, though not as distinct as what Zhongshan had observed at the Ghost Shadow Sect. Still, most of the powerful individuals on Tiang Ind sensed a subtle abnormality in the North Star constetion, as if it had be even brighter.


    To the east of Tiang Ind, the Supreme Emperor of the Wolf n, Emperor Xuan Sha, looked at the distant sky, then nced towards the west with a hint of surprise on his lips. "Kaiyang Sect, the Big Dipper Formation? Heh!"


    To the north of Tiang Ind, the Six Paths of the Yin Moon Imperial Dynasty gazed at the stars, a flicker of fear passing through their eyes. Gradually, their eyes narrowed. "Kaiyang Sect? Tianxingzi? Who is he going to deal with? Such intense hatred? Star fire incineration?"


    Others from various immortal sects also showed signs of astonishment. Some understood what was happening, but many others were unaware, sensing only the unusual changes in the starry sky. Furthermore, in the direction where the Ghost Shadow Sect was located, the spiritual energy became exceptionally chaotic, incredibly so. Some disciples from lesser sects had already started flying towards that direction.


    Inside the Ghost Shadow Sect, within the Big Dipper Formation, the screams never ceased.


    "Tianxingzi~~~" A furious voice echoed from within the formation.


    "Ying Wuxie, do you still remember the day you invaded my Kaiyang Sect? For the sake of seizing the Kaiyang Wuqu Spoon and killing my beloved wife, today, I will make your Ghost Shadow Sect apany you in death~~~" Tianxingzi roared from the sky.


    The star fire continued to burn the Ghost Shadow Sect. The mes within the formation were incredibly fierce, trapping the people inside, making it impossible for them to escape.


    However, there was something that coulde out. Last time, the Tai Dan Sect had confirmed it: Ying Wuxie''s demonic avatar.


    Sure enough, in that instant, ny-nine demonic avatars suddenly rushed out from a distance.


    At that moment, a faint brilliance suddenly appeared on the earth''s surface. It was different from the light emitted by the Big Dipper Formation; instead, the entirend seemed to emit its own light, in various colors: red, yellow, green, purple.


    Apass! Under the foot of Mud Bodhisattva, the entirend suddenly protruded a hugepass. Zhongshan and Mud Bodhisattva stood in the center of thepass''s celestial pool, while the ny-nine demonic avatars appeared on top of thepass, no matter where they hade from in the Big Dipper Formation.


    For a moment, it seemed as if everything in the heavens and earth had disappeared, leaving only the giantpass.


    "Mud Bodhisattva~~~" A shocked cry suddenly came from afar, and the ny-nine demonic avatars swiftly rushed towards the celestial pool of thepass. It seemed like they wanted to rush to the celestial pool immediately and tear apart the two in it.


    However, the hugepass slowly rotated, and the demonic avatars ran on thepass as if in slow motion. After running for a long time, they had only moved a tiny distance.


    "Tianyuan Divine Pill? Such a domineering Tianyuan Divine Pill. If given another month, even I wouldn''t be able to control your avatars." Mud Bodhisattva''s voice was cold.


    Then, with a wave of his hand, the hugepass, except for the celestial pool, began to rotate rapidly, spinning continuously as if the mountains and rivers were following its movement. Mud Bodhisattva exerted all his strength, his face covered in more and more pus-filled blisters, but he paid no attention, his eyes cold as he continued to activate thepass.


    "Snap!"


    One demonic avatar suddenly shattered and exploded, disappearingpletely.


    "Snap! Snap! Snap! Snap..."


    A series of cracking sounds followed as the demonic avatars were destroyed one after another, as if the giantpass were a millstone, crazily crushing the surrounding space. On thispass, Mud Bodhisattva held absolute control. Once within it, life and death would be at the mercy of Mud Bodhisattva.


    "No~~~" a voice of disbelief and resentment echoed from within the formation, filled with boundless resentment.


    Just as he had just reimed the Tian Di Xuan Huang Cauldron and obtained the Tianyuan Divine Pill from within, just at the moment of breakthrough, filled with enthusiasm, this sudden appearance of the Big Dipper Formation and the massive Feng Shuipass underground instantly extinguished Ying Wuxie''s excitement. Disbelief, unwillingness, a strong sense of unwillingness overwhelmed him.


    Within no time, Mud Bodhisattva had dealt with the ny-nine demonic avatars. Pus-filled blisters now covered his right cheek as well, but even in his exhaustion, Mud Bodhisattva felt satisfied to have avenged Nie Wuyou. However, despite avenging him, Nie Wuyou remained unconscious.


    For a full hour, the screams inside the Big Dipper Formationpletely ceased. The Big Dipper stars in the sky no longer injected star fire into the formation, and the light gradually dissipated. The three people in charge of the formation slowly withdrew it.


    Zhongshan stared at Tianxingzi in the sky. Tianxingzi''s hair had turnedpletely white, his face wrinkled, incredibly pale, as if he were on the brink of death. Yet, amidst this nearing demise, there was a hint of satisfaction on his face.


    "Elder Brother~~~" the cries of Gusangzi and Xuanxinzi came from afar. In an instant, the two flew over, grabbing Tianxingzi, their faces filled with sorrow.


    Tianxingzinded in front of Zhongshan and Mud Bodhisattva.


    "Mentor," Zhongshan immediately stepped forward to grab Tianxingzi.


    "Hahaha, look, has Nie Wuyou''s revenge been avenged?" Tianxingzi''s pallid face unexpectedly showed a satisfied smile.


    "Avenged, avenged, the Ghost Shadow Sect has turned to ashes, Nie Wuyou''s revenge has been avenged," Gusangzi said sorrowfully while holding onto Tianxingzi.


    From a distance, Zhongshan looked over. The original Ghost Shadow Sect no longer existed. The vast area was devoid of mountains and trees, reced with white sand and ck ashes. Everything, whether it was people or objects within, had been incinerated by the star fire. Thend had turned into ashes, the soil bing sand. It was all burnt clean.


    The Big Dipper Formation?


    "Mentor, the demons are dead, and Mother''s revenge has been avenged," Zhongshan said with some sadness.


    "Not quite, there''s still light there," Tianxingzi''s pallid face suddenly widened his eyes.


    Everyone looked together and indeed, behind a sand dune in the distance, there was a faint red light.


    Seeing that red light, Tianxingzi became anxious and ignored everyone, swiftly flying out. Mud Bodhisattva also rushed out faster. What''s going on? Is there something that the Big Dipper Formation couldn''t burn?


    Xuanxinzi and Gusangzi also flew up, chasing after Tianxingzi urgently, and in an instant, they burst out of the forest.


    Zhongshan was left behind. Witnessing this scene, he naturally wanted to rush out quickly, but at this moment, he suddenly couldn''t move. A chilling coldness poured from the top of Zhongshan''s head to his feet. How could this be? Unable to move?


    In terror, Zhongshan felt this sensation, reminiscent of the ice poison he encountered with Tian Linger at the volcanost time. That person had imprisoned Zhongshan with his divine sense, just like now.


    The Celestial Demon Essence Technique, the second level!


    Zhongshan quickly exerted all his strength, three times his normal strength. His whole body trembled as if he could break free from the imprisonment at any moment, feeling hope, Zhongshan quickly struggled.


    At that moment, a blue figure suddenly appeared in front of Zhongshan, translucent, like a soul, yet not a soul, with a strange shape. It was the evil shadow, Ying Wuxie.


    Zhongshan recognized him at a nce, the t figure, Ying Wuxie? He didn''t die?


    No, Ying Wuxie''s physical body was burnt, this was his soul, his soul had escaped. But how did his soul escape? The soul is more fragile than the physical body. There''s absolutely no chance of survival under the burning of star fire.


    As Zhongshan glimpsed inside the primordial spirit of Ying Wuyao, he noticed a transparent octagonal mirror. Could it be that this mirror was safeguarding Ying Wuyao''s primordial spirit?


    Zhongshan had little time to ponder. Swiftly twisting his body, the primordial spirit of Ying Wuyao darted straight towards him.


    Dread filled Zhongshan''s heart because he knew that Ying Wuyao intended to possess him, to seize control of his flesh.


    His eyes widened, and the me of the Vermilion Bird at his brow danced wildly. A vast mist of vermilion birds sprayed forth, directly assaulting Ying Wuyao''s primordial spirit.


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhongshan could move now. In the instant the mist of vermilion birds enveloped Ying Wuyao, Zhongshan sprang into action.


    Leaping away, the Great Nightmare de exerted its full force, ruthlessly cleaving towards Ying Wuyao''s primordial spirit hidden within the mist of vermilion birds. For the primordial spirit was the most vulnerable.


    "Boom~~~"


    The de qi, extending ten zhang, directly struck Ying Wuyao. With a deafening roar, Ying Wuyao wildly contorted his body. However, it seemed as though, after being enveloped in the mist of vermilion birds, the primordial spirit couldn''t escape. It writhed rapidly within, but couldn''t break free.


    "No~~~"


    Ying Wuyao let out an unwilling cry. With the thunderous sound of Zhongshan''s de qi, he was abruptly cleaved in two.


    Ying Wuyao''s primordial spirit was severed, and the mist of vermilion birds was swiftly collected by Zhongshan. In the distance, others seemed to hear Ying Wuyao''s miserable scream, rushing over just in time to witness a small mirror falling from the sky, and Zhongshan cleaving a primordial spirit in half with his great de. The primordial spirit swayed unsteadily before dispersing abruptly, vanishing like a wisp of smoke. Yet, Zhongshan could sense that as the primordial spirit dissipated, qi surged madly in its ce, erupting in all directions.


    "Ying Wuyao, won''t you let me take revenge even in death?" Tianxingzi''s eyes shed with a hint ofmentation.


    The other three looked towards Zhongshan, each with a lingering fear. If Ying Wuyao had obtained his primordial spirit, he could have seized control. And it had to be done quickly. It was a close call. If Zhongshan hadn''t just extinguished him, wouldn''t this siege of the Ghost Shadow Sect have been in vain? And Zhongshan might have perished as well.


    Nipusaka gently picked up the small mirror from the ground, ncing at it and saying, "Evil technique, the Myriad Shadows Heavenly Scripture. Even if it''s the pinnacle of martial arts, such demonic transformations should not exist in this world."


    "Nipusaka, Zhongshan has in Ying Wuyao. This mirror, hand it over to Zhongshan for disposal," Tianxingzi suddenly said coldly.


    Looking at the mirror in his hand, Nipusaka sighed deeply, passing it to Zhongshan, saying, "If you don''t want to end up like Ying Wuyao, destroy it immediately."


    "Whether Zhongshan destroys it or not is his own affair," Tianxingzi immediately added.


    Gently taking the mirror and ncing at Tianxingzi, Zhongshan took a deep breath, his eyes filled with gratitude. Tianxingzi knew that by establishing his dynasty, even if Zhongshan didn''t practice this skill, he could cultivate assassins.


    "Thank you, Master," Zhongshan said, flipping his hand to stow away the mirror.

 Chapter 145: The Pure World Snow Lotus

    <h4>Chapter 145: The Pure World Snow Lotus</h4>


    "Senior Brother, let''s go back and take onest look at the Kaiyang Sect," Gu Shuangzi said, his voice filled with sorrow as he gazed at Tianxingzi.


    Tianxingzi looked at the group, then at the sandy wastnd in the distance, and said, "The Heaven and Earth Cauldron belongs to the Taidan Sect. It won''t be long before theye for it."


    Everyone nodded in agreement.


    A white cloud carried them swiftly towards the distant Kaiyang Sect.


    As Tianxingzi and the others departed, a massive ten-meter-tall wolf suddenly appeared outside the now sandy remains of the Youying Sect. Standing atop the wolf was a figure dressed in a ck dragon robe.


    It was Zhong Shan, always Zhong Shan. Concealed, Zhong Shan had suddenly appeared outside the Youying Sect, apanied by a hundredrge wolves. On each wolf''s head stood a soldier. These were the wolf cavalry of the Daxi Dynasty.


    Zhong Shan pointed forward, and the wolf beneath him charged towards the sandy area. Soon, they found the ten-zhang-high giant cauldron buried under a distant sand dune. The cauldron looked exactly the same as before, as if it hadn''t changed at all.


    The wolf cavalry, well-trained, quickly covered the cauldron with materials, transforming it into arge box.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shanmanded softly.


    The giant box was secured with ropes, lifted by twentyrge wolves, and swiftly taken away from the site.


    Not long after Zhong Shan and his men left, flying swords descended from the sky. When the arriving cultivators saw the former Youying Sect reduced to a pile of fine sand and ck ash, they all gasped in shock.


    This was a superior immortal sect, and it had been turned to ashes in an instant? What had happened here? What exactly had transpired?


    Each cultivator was filled with terror. This was too horrifying. What had happened?


    More and more people gathered, but the fear only continued to spread. It wasn''t until someone mentioned the Beidou Seven Star Array that everyone took a sharp breath and fell silent.


    Kaiyang Sect, a superior immortal sect? Could they really be this powerful? To annihte another superior immortal sect in just a few hours? The once-confident sects, who had thought they could rival the superior immortal sects, were now taking deep breaths. Burning mountains and destroying sects? Summoning stars from the heavens? Their previous arrogance vanished instantly. A superior immortal sect was not only powerful but also had deep roots, roots that lesser sects could not hope to match in a short time.


    At Kaiyang Sect, in front of Nie Wuyou''s grave.


    Apanied by everyone, Tianxingzinded in the za before the grave. Standing behind him were the two guardians of the sect.


    Tianxingzi looked tenderly at Nie Wuyou''s grave and softly said, "Zhong Shan, what time is it now?"


    "The hour of Xu," Zhong Shan replied, a hint of sadness in his eyes.


    "I have one more hour until I can see Wuyou," Tianxingzi said with a longing smile.


    Tianxingzi was smiling, but no one else could. Their faces were filled with sorrow because Tianxingzi had used his lifespan to invoke the Beidou Seven Stars. He had only until the hour of Hai left. One more hour. Who could find it in themselves to smile?


    "Junior Brother," Tianxingzi suddenly looked at Xuanxinzi beside him.


    "Senior Brother," Xuanxinzi replied, his face full of grief.


    The greatest sorrow in the world is not seeing a loved one die, but knowing they are about to die and being powerless to stop it.


    With a flick of his wrist, Tianxingzi took out therge spoon from before.


    "The Seven Star Hall, the Kaiyang Sect of the Seven Alliance Sect. This is the Kaiyang Sect''s symbol of leadership, the Kaiyang Wuqu Spoon. Today, I pass it to you. From now on, you will act as the head of the Kaiyang Sect. When the disciples return and two elders are present, you will formally take over," Tianxingzi instructed.


    "Senior Brother," Xuan Xinzi''s eyes welled up with tears as he spoke.


    Handing over the Kaiyang Wuqiu Spoon to Xuan Xinzi, Tian Xingzi turned to Gu Shuangzi and said, "Junior Sister, from now on, support your junior brother well. Let go of that old bet you two had. Life is full of uncertainties, unlike me, who leaves as I please. Don''t waste your time on trivial matters and end up with regrets."


    Gu Shuangzi covered her mouth, trying to suppress her sobs, but tears flowed uncontrobly from her eyes.


    After giving his instructions, Tian Xingzi looked at Shouzong standing nearby. "Please head to Shenzhou to summon back the disciples of Kaiyang Sect. Also, go to the Qixing Hall and bring back at least two elders of the Kaiyang Sect. Make sure toplete this within four years."


    "It is my duty." Shouzong bowed respectfully to Tian Xingzi before his figure blurred and vanished from sight.


    "Tudi Pusa, what are your ns?" Tian Xingzi asked, turning to the y figure.


    "After you''re buried, I''ll head to Shenzhou. This ce holds too many sad memories; I won''t be returning," Tudi Pusa replied.


    Hearing this, everyone stared at Tudi Pusa. Wait until you''re buried? How could he say such a thing?


    But Tian Xingzi wasn''t angered; indeed, he only had an hour left to live.


    "Junior Brother, you go to the Kaiyang Hall first. I have a few words to say to Zhong Shan," Tian Xingzi said to Xuan Xinzi.


    "Yes, Senior Brother," Xuan Xinzi replied, tears still brimming in his eyes.


    Soon, only Zhong Shan remained; the others had all left.


    Looking at Tian Xingzi, Zhong Shan''s eyes showed a hint of sorrow. Master, Master is leaving?


    "Zhong Shan," Tian Xingzi called out.


    "Master," Zhong Shan sighed softly.


    "I can sense your prowess, a prowess surpassing that of this old man who''s lived for centuries. Ling''er will not suffer with you. From now on, I entrust Ling''er to your care," Tian Xingzi said with a sigh.


    "Master, rest assured. Ling''er is my wife. Once I reach the Nascent Soul stage, I will bring Ling''er back and give her the care she deserves," Zhong Shan promised firmly.


    "Heh, do you know where Ling''er is?" Tian Xingzi smiled.


    "Disciple knows she''s in the Phoenix Pce. I will go to Shenzhou, and I will find the Phoenix Pce. I will find Ling''er," Zhong Shan said with unwavering determination.


    "Phoenix Pce? Heh, bringing Ling''er back won''t be easy. Just like you gaining the eptance of the wolf n, gaining the approval of the Feng n is no simple task. The Nian Qingqing you met summoned a blue luan from the Phoenix Pce. The strength and depth of the Feng n are beyond your current reach," Tian Xingzi shook his head.


    "Feng n? Master, rest assured. No matter where it is, as long as I, Zhong Shan, am alive, I will bring Ling''er back," Zhong Shan said resolutely.


    With a faint smile, Tian Xingzi said, "Shenzhou has three great dynasties: Da Luo, Da Li, and Tai Sui. The Feng n rules the Da Li dynasty. Ling''er, with her unique physique, might even be named a princess of Da Li. Be prepared."


    "Master, trust me. Zhong Shan always keeps his word," Zhong Shan vowed solemnly.


    "Good," Tian Xingzi said, looking at Zhong Shan with unwavering faith.


    With a flip of his hand, Tian Xingzi suddenly produced a small white lotus flower bud.


    Gazing at the white lotus, Tian Xingzi took a deep breath and said, "Ling''er is married to you now. The treasure I obtained with Wuyou will be her dowry. Youck the Pure Yang power to use it now, but once you reach thete Golden Core stage, you can study it. Remember, this is the ''Pure World Snow Lotus.'' Unless absolutely necessary, do not reveal it to others, for you cannot protect it yet."


    Pure World Snow Lotus? Zhong Shan had heard of the Tianshan Snow Lotus in the Rare Treasures Pavilion but had no knowledge of this Pure World Snow Lotus. However, from Tian Xingzi''s seriousness, he knew it must be extraordinarily precious.


    "Thank you, Father-inw," Zhong Shan said, epting the Pure World Snow Lotus with utmost respect.


    As Zhong Shan held the white lotus bud in his hand, a cool sensation spread through his palm. With a flick of his wrist, he stored it in his storage bracelet for future study.


    Watching him, Tian Xingzi spoke softly, "Some time ago, Tudi Pusa mentioned that while your natural aptitude is poor, your luck is exceptionally good. Though he practices Feng Shui, he can discern certain surface details. For instance, being recognized by Di Xuan Sha requires great fortune. Only those with immense fortune can conquer the world."


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Tudi Pusa bears you no ill will. Moreover, you killed Ying Wuxie, so he will not harm you. However, he will seek you out in theing days. Be prepared," Tian Xingzi warned.


    "Tudi Pusa ising for me?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "He intends to destroy the mirror you recently acquired, the Myriad Shadows Heavenly Mirror," Tian Xingzi said calmly.


    "I understand, Master. I will be cautious," Zhong Shan replied promptly.


    "After I am gone, bury me alongside Wuyou," Tian Xingzi said finally.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath as he looked at Tian Xingzi, his eyes filling with sorrow once more.


    "Let''s go to the Kaiyang Hall to arrange the sect''s affairs," Tian Xingzi said.


    On the northwestern coast of Tiang Ind, Gan Bao''er, dressed in red, finally arrived from Shenzhou, escorted by the three elders of the Taidan Sect.


    Standing atop a high mountain on the coast of Tiang Ind, Bao''er''s face was slightly flushed with excitement as she gazed into the endless distance.


    "Master, Bao''er has returned," Gan Bao''er murmured.


    "Sect Master, it is time to return to the sect," Elder Yao Yu urged from beside her.


    "Hmm," Bao''er nodded. With the three elders flying on their clouds, they quickly headed towards the interior of Tiang Ind.


    At the Daying Dynasty, hidden within the shadows, Zhong Shan led arge contingent of wolf cavalry to the Youying Sect, retrieving the Heaven and Earth ck-Yellow Cauldron. As they passed by the Wolf God Hall, Qingyun, the Wolf General, suddenly widened his eyes, staring in astonishment at the object carried by the wolves.


    "Boom!"


    Therge chest containing the Heaven and Earth ck-Yellow Cauldronnded in a vast square.


    In an instant, Qingyun appeared in front of Zhong Shan.


    "The Heaven and Earth ck-Yellow Cauldron? How did you acquire this?" Qingyun asked, eyes wide with disbelief.

 Chapter 146: Shadow Doppelgangers

    <h4>Chapter 146: Shadow Doppelgangers</h4>


    At the Nianwu Tomb of the Kaiyang Sect, amidst the mourning of the sect, Tianxingzi and Niewuyou wereid to rest together.


    Before the tomb, Zhongshan knelt with a mournful expression, while the disciples of the Kaiyang Sect came forward to pay their respects, bidding farewell to Tianxingzi.


    Tianxingzi was gone, and so was the Sect Master of Kaiyang. The disciples within the sect could feel the solemnity of the moment.


    Tian Sha knelt beside Zhongshan, gazing at the grave with a hint of confusion and sorrow in his eyes.


    After the mourning, the disciples of the Kaiyang Sect gradually departed, and Xuanxinzi went to attend to other matters.


    However, two figures remained kneeling before Tianxingzi''s grave: Zhongshan and Tiansha.


    On the third day of mourning, Tiansha rose quietly, cast a cold nce at Zhongshan, then turned and walked away. He had observed the three days of mourning, but Zhongshan continued to kneel.


    On the fourth day, after Xuanxinzi had finished handling the affairs of the Kaiyang Sect, he flew with Guwenzi to Tianxingzi''s grave. Seeing Zhongshan still kneeling there, the two exchanged a nce, each sighing softly.


    "Zhongshan, the three days of mourning have passed, and the departed have gone. Grieve no more," Xuanxinzi said gently.


    "I am mourning for Dailing''er," Zhongshan replied.


    Looking at Zhongshan, Xuanxinzi sighed lightly. "Zhongshan, Senior Brother once mentioned to me about epting you as a disciple. What do you think?"


    Raising his head to look at Xuanxinzi, Zhongshan said, "Thank you for your kindness, Senior Uncle, but it is said that once a master, forever a father. Since I have already worshipped Senior Master, I naturally won''t worship Senior Uncle."


    Seeing Zhongshan''s response, Xuanxinzi nodded. "Not worshiping is fine too. If you encounter any difficulties in your cultivation, you cane to me at any time."


    "Thank you, Senior Uncle," Zhongshan said expressionlessly.


    In the northernnds of the Divine Departure Dynasty, within avishly decorated pce, Tianlinger was now fully restored, with no traces of injury visible on her body.


    In front of a small table, a red sparrow was pecking at a bowl of fiery red grains.


    "Xiaohong, why do I feel so uneasy these days? Why do I suddenly miss my father?" Tianlinger patted the red sparrow''s head, looking bewildered.


    The sparrow, upon being patted, nced at Tianlinger, tilted its head, then resumed eating the fiery red grains.


    "All you know is eating, eating, eating! In the entire Phoenix Pce, there are only phoenixes��Ice Phoenix, Fire Phoenix, Green Luan... all phoenixes, howe there''s a little sparrow like you? Other birds aren''t allowed inside! How did you manage toe and go freely? Really, all you do is eat all day long, and you can''t talk like the other phoenixes," Tianlinger pouted.


    But the red sparrow seemed oblivious to Ling''er''s frustration, continuing to peck at the grains as if it hadn''t heard her words.


    "Really infuriating! You little rascal, never listening to me. All you know is eating. Hmph, if you don''t listen to me anymore, I won''t feed you," Tianlinger scolded as she patted the red sparrow.


    On Tiang Ind, within the Taishan Sect.


    Bao''er stood at the entrance of a grand hall with three elders. Outside the hally fifty-three bodies, while more than ten disciples of the Taishan Sect stood nearby, their faces filled with grief.


    "What''s going on?" Elder Yaoyu asked in a deep voice. "We found them like this when we returned. Everyone''s dead. All the senior brothers and uncles in the sect are dead," a Taidan Sect disciple replied sorrowfully. "No one dares to bully our Taidan Sect, no one dares to kill so many of us and then leave so brazenly. Sect Master..." An elder clenched his fist and looked at Gan Bao''er. Clearly furious, the Taidan Sect might not be strong inbat, but it didn''t mean they could be bullied easily. If they issued a wide call for help, eight out of ten sects on Tiang Ind would rush to aid them, and even those from the Divine Departure Dynasty woulde to assist, despite not knowing the Taidan Sect. Bao''er narrowed her eyes, looking at the fifty-three bodies in front of her. She then spoke calmly, "Elder Yaoyu." "Yes," Elder Yaoyu responded. "The grand formation of the sect was not breached. It is very likely that this was an internal massacre, and the Heaven and Earth Cauldron has been stolen. Do you have a way to find it?" Bao''er asked in a stern tone. "The three of us have all benefited from the Heaven and Earth Cauldron in our cultivation, each possessing a trace of its aura. As long as the cauldron is still on Tiang Ind, we will surely find it," Elder Yaoyu replied immediately. "Good, focus all your efforts on sensing the Heaven and Earth Cauldron. Notify me as soon as you sense it," Bao''er instructed. "Understood," the three elders responded promptly. "The dead cannot be brought back to life. Bury them first. As for their vengeance, it will be exacted," Bao''er said coldly. "Yes, Sect Master," the dozen or so Taidan Sect disciples bowed in unison.


    It had been seven days since Tianxingzi''s death in the Kaiyang Sect. Zhongshan had returned to the Waterside Pavilion. The sorrow of his master''s death filled Zhongshan''s heart. Tianxingzi, though ruthless to his enemies, was extremely kind to his own people. Among all the disciples, Tianxingzi had taken special care of Zhongshan, perhaps due to Ling''er, but it mattered not to Zhongshan. Tianxingzi had shown him great concern, and now he was gone. With a light sigh, Zhongshan took out a small mirror. The mirror was octagonal, smooth on both sides. One side faintly revealed numerous tiny characters, numbering in the tens of thousands, but incredibly small. The Myriad Shadow Scripture? The title was at the beginning, followed by the content of the technique. As Zhongshan read through it, he couldn''t help but take a deep breath. Twelve levels, simr to the Red Luan Scripture, also had twelve levels. The magic of this techniquey in its ability to create a doppelganger, a shadow clone with half the strength of the practitioner. Like a shadow, the doppelganger would appear but could onlyst for a day before dissipating into a puff of smoke. The first level allowed for up to two doppelgangers, the second level four, doubling with each level. Thinking about this technique filled Zhongshan with shock. Could such a technique really exist? A doppelganger? But there was a drawback: as one practiced the Myriad Shadow Scripture, one''s body would gradually be thinner and thinner like a shadow, until eventually turning into aplete shadow. A shadow? Zhongshan''s eyes showed a trace of surprise. He already possessed the Hidden Body technique, which also made him like a shadow. Would this make him unique? The Myriad Shadow Scripture was described as extremely difficult to practice, but Zhongshan decided to give it a try. His Hidden Body in the Divine Departure Dynasty quickly sat cross-legged, following the descriptions in the Myriad Shadow Scripture, and began to practice swiftly. By the time the next day dawned, both his true body and Hidden Body were wide-eyed with astonishment.


    In the Great Ying Dynasty, within a grand hall, Zhongshan''s hidden body flickered, and two identical copies of himself appeared beside him. These copies were devoid of consciousness, mere replicas of his hidden body, entirely under Zhongshan''s control, moving as extensions of his own body. Whatever the doppelgangers saw, Zhongshan could see as well.


    Under the control of his hidden body, one of the shadow doppelgangers picked up a brush and began transcribing the Myriad Shadow Scripture from the small mirror.


    As he watched the doppelganger transcribe the scripture, Zhongshan was astonished. With merely one-tenth of his true essence, he had created two identical puppet-like doppelgangers. These shadow clones could disperse on their own or merge back into his body, restoring the expended true essence.


    The two shadow doppelgangers quickly merged back into his hidden body, vanishing in an instant.


    "Huh? Is this technique really that difficult?" Zhongshan mused aloud, puzzled.


    Suddenly, there was a knock on the door of the small courtyard of the Waterside Pavilion.


    Zhongshan put away the small mirror and walked to the door, opening it gently.


    It was the y Bodhisattva, wrapped in a ck robe,pletely covering himself. Even his face, full of pustules, was hidden. If Zhongshan hadn''t recognized his figure, he wouldn''t have identified him.


    "Senior," Zhongshan said, frowning as he remembered his master''s dying words.


    "Zhongshan, may we talk?" the y Bodhisattva asked calmly.


    "Please, Senior, have a seat by the stone table near the pond. I''ll brew some tea," Zhongshan said, pointing to the stone table.


    "Hmm," the y Bodhisattva nodded, slowly walking to the stone table and sitting down. Zhongshan went inside to fetch a pot of tea.


    After both were seated, Zhongshan poured a cup of tea for the y Bodhisattva.


    Taking a light sip, the y Bodhisattva set the cup down and said, "Tianxingzi should have told you the reason for my visit before he died."


    "Master mentioned it briefly, but didn''t go into detail. Please, feel free to speak, Senior," Zhongshan replied.

 Chapter 147: The Bet

    <h4>Chapter 147: The Bet</h4>


    "A brief mention? Haha, I''m here for that small mirror," Mud Buddha said bluntly.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan frowned and shook his head, saying, "Master said I could refuse. Can you tell me why you want to destroy that small mirror?"


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Mud Buddha calmly replied, "The Ten Thousand Shadows Scripture, a heavenly-level technique. Do you know how to practice it?"


    "I took a lookst night," Zhong Shan said.


    "Took a look? Just a look, huh? No one understands this technique better than I do because it once fell into the hands of my ancestors. This technique is extremely difficult to practice, almost impossible. It''s too hard; it turns people into shadows. The requirements are extraordinarily harsh. You''ve seen Ying Wuxie''s appearance, right?" Mud Buddha asked.


    "I''ll consider it," Zhong Shan was not frightened by Mud Buddha''s words, especially since his hidden body had already mastered the first level and produced two shadow clones.


    "Hehe, you don''t know its horrors. The Ten Thousand Shadows Scripture is an unequivocal demonic technique. Practicing it requires the blood of thousands of infants and the centas of pregnant women. It leads to mass ughter and unimaginable cruelty. It even causes practitioners to lose their true nature and be outright murderers," Mud Buddha said.


    Zhong Shan frowned, staring at Mud Buddha for a while before saying, "Rest assured, senior. I won''t practice it."


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Mud Buddha naturally didn''t believe him. Even if Zhong Shan didn''t practice it, wouldn''t he find someone else to?


    Sighing deeply, Mud Buddha said, "Alright, I''ll be honest. Destroying that mirror is a mandate from my sect''s founder. When my ancestor went mad and ughtered millions, he woke up and realized the evil of this technique. From then on, he established a rule that any disciple must destroy it if found. If Tian Xingzi hadn''t been dying that day, I would have destroyed it on the spot. I hope you can understand."


    Looking at Mud Buddha, Zhong Shan squinted and said, "A technique is a technique; a mirror is a mirror. Your ancestor went mad because of practicing it. Why destroy the mirror?"


    "Because it''s impossible to practice without the hidden body. My ancestor, with his extraordinary talent, gathered the materials for this mirror, and countless practitioners forged it together. It is this ''Shadow Mirror'' that separates and creates clones. Without this external aid, the technique bes useless. It wouldn''t matter if it existed," Mud Buddha exined.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan widened his eyes. Why didn''t his hidden body need the mirror? Could it be due to the unique nature of his hidden body?


    "Is that true?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Absolutely," Mud Buddha confirmed.


    Staring at Mud Buddha, Zhong Shan felt a strange sensation.


    "If you destroy this mirror, I am willing to set up ten Feng Shui formations for the Great Yin Dynasty to ensure its prosperity for a hundred years," Mud Buddha offered as an incentive.


    "Perhaps senior doesn''t care about my Great Yin Dynasty, but I still want to try. Would you be willing to stay and help my Great Yin Dynasty grow?" Zhong Shan asked sincerely.


    Shaking his head, Mud Buddha said, "I''m heading to Shenzhou soon. There will be no chance to meet again, so how can I assist your Great Yin Dynasty?"


    "No, one day, the Great Yin Dynasty will also enter Shenzhou. We will meet again then," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Mud Buddha smiled slightly, "If I hide, no one in the world can find me."


    Seeing Mud Buddha''s confidence, Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow. He was, of course, very confident in himself. Clenching his fists, Zhong Shan said, "How about this, let''s make a bet, senior."


    "Oh?" Mud Buddha looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Should we meet again in the vastnds of Shenzhou, would you join my Zhen Kingdom?" Zhong Shan''s eyes gleamed with determination.


    "Are you so confident you''ll find me again?" The y Bodhisattva shook his head slightly.


    "Gold will shine wherever it is. I believe that one day, I will find you again. If you are so confident, why not make a bet with me? As a gesture of good faith, I will destroy this mirror right in front of you. Whether or not we meet again will be left to fate." Zhong Shan stared intently at the y Bodhisattva.


    The y Bodhisattva gazed at Zhong Shan for a while before softly saying, "Fate? Very well, fate it is. As long as we meet again on thends of Shenzhou, I will join your Zhen Kingdom."


    "Thank you, senior." Zhong Shan''s excitement was palpable.


    Zhong Shan was not worried about the y Bodhisattva breaking his promise, as he had immense confidence in himself. Simrly, the y Bodhisattva was equally confident that Zhong Shan could never find him again.


    With a flip of his hand, Zhong Shan took out a small mirror. The mirror held little use for him now; with the ability to conceal himself, he no longer needed it. If this small mirror could be exchanged for the allegiance of the y Bodhisattva, even if it was just a future possibility, Zhong Shan deemed it a worthy trade.


    "Senior, please do it," Zhong Shan said straightforwardly.


    The y Bodhisattva looked at Zhong Shan, slightly surprised, but quickly turned his attention to the small mirror��the ''Shadow Mirror''. He reached out, took the mirror, and with a slight pinch, confirmed it was the correct mirror. Then, with a gentle squeeze between his fingers, the mirror shattered into fragments, falling onto the stone table. With a flick of his sleeve, the fragments turned into a wisp of green smoke and disappeared.


    "Farewell," the y Bodhisattva said softly as he stood up.


    "Take care, senior," Zhong Shan stood up to see him off respectfully.


    The y Bodhisattva nodded and turned to leave.


    Watching the y Bodhisattva''s departing figure, Zhong Shan felt a sense of achievement��half of his n wasplete.


    In the skies above the royal city of the Great Zhen Dynasty, more than a dozen figures were flying high.


    Leading them was Bao''er, her face full of nostalgia. Behind her were the three elders of the Tai Dan Sect and several disciples.


    "Sect Master, it''s right there. I can sense it. Though it''s covered, the internal aura remains unchanged." Elder Yao Yu pointed towards a square within the pce, which was covered by numerous curtains.


    Bao''er ignored Elder Yao Yu and instead furrowed her brows, filled with worry. This ce was different from before. It should have been the Zhong Residence in Xuancheng, her home. What had happened here? Where was her father? He must be safe.


    Clenching her small fists, Bao''er, filled with anxiety, flew towards therge square with the group.


    At the Wolf Temple, Qingyun Wolf General squinted his eyes and walked out, looking towards the group flying in the distance.


    A group of immortals suddenly appeared above the royal city?


    This quickly caught the attention of the royal guards, especially Yinn, who was stationed there.


    Recently, Yinn had been preparing for the campaign to the western region. Although the wolf cavalry would be there, conquering that area would take time. Thus, she had been frequenting the pce to spend time with her uncle.


    As Yinn was making her rounds, she noticed the shocked expressions of the guards. Following their gaze, she looked up and saw the scene in the sky, her eyebrows rising in concern.


    Under the protection of the Tai Dan Sect members, Bao''er finally arrived at the square where the Heaven and Earth Mysterious Yellow Cauldron was stored. As they approached, Elder Yao Yu waved his hand, and the covering cloths fell away, revealing a massive cauldron, ten zhang tall.


    "Boom! Boom!"...


    Ying Lan, mounted on a giant wolf, charged into the square with arge contingent of guards.


    "Who dares intrude upon the royal pce?" Ying Lan shouted, raising her weapon. Despite facing a group of immortals, her entourage followed her lead, weapons ready.


    The disciples of the Tai Dan Sect were equally furious. Seeing the Heaven and Earth Cauldron rified everything��the deaths of fifty-three Tai Dan Sect members could now be avenged.


    Everyone red angrily at Ying Lan and her soldiers. However, no one made a move, waiting for their sect leader''smand.


    Bao''er looked at Ying Lan, and Ying Lan''s eyes suddenly widened as she stared back at Bao''er.


    The Tai Dan Sect members misinterpreted Ying Lan''s expression as fear, but what did fear matter? Blood debts demanded blood repayment.


    "Grand-Aunt!" Ying Lan suddenly called out.


    The unexpected shout made both sides falter, nearly causing Ying Lan''s guards to stumble, while the Tai Dan Sect members were equally shaken. Enemies exchanging pleasantries?


    The Tai Dan Sect members stared wide-eyed at Ying Lan.


    Bao''er was slightly puzzled.


    "Grand-Aunt, it''s me, Ying Lan!" Ying Lan quickly sheathed her sword and eximed.


    "Ying Lan? Are you Ying Lan?" Bao''er finally remembered, recalling that Ying Lan had been just a child when she left.


    At the Wolf God Hall, Qing Yun, the Wolf General, had been preparing to intervene when the situation suddenly shifted, leaving him stunned. Were they rted?


    "Where''s the Master? Is your granduncle alright?" Ying Lan asked urgently, her voice full of hope.


    "Sect Leader," an elder called out, frowning.


    "Bao''er~~~" A voice suddenly called out excitedly from the distant Longevity Hall.


    Bao''er immediately turned to see Zhong Shan running towards them. The young Zhong Shan��Bao''er recognized him at once. The Master, it was the Master.


    "Master~~~" Bao''er, disregarding everyone else, darted towards Zhong Shan like a butterfly flitting through flowers.


    At that moment, the Tai Dan Sect disciples, the three elders, Qing Yun the Wolf General, and the pce guards were all stunned. Except for the envious and excited Ying Lan, everyone watched this scene in disbelief.


    Just moments before, the two sides had been on the brink of battle, but in an instant, the tension dissolved as the leaders of both sides stood atop a pce, embracing each other as if no one else existed.

 Chapter 148: Explanation

    <h4>Chapter 148: Exnation</h4>


    Everyone is truly remarkable, incredibly powerful! With just a few casual votes, the number of monthly tickets soared, giving Gu��nq�� a huge surprise! Thank you all! ����


    Public decorum? Decorum be damned! Imperial dignity? To hell with it! As long as Bao''er can return, I can rebuild my lost image. I don''t care what others think of me, be it good, bad, majestic, or stern, I am still Zhong Shan.


    In front of the Longevity Hall, the ministers watched from afar, their eyes filled with confusion. Who was that, causing His Majesty to abandon the court meeting and rush out?


    After their initial shock, the members of the Tai Dan Sect became somber. Their sect leader? How would the sect leader handle the deaths of fifty-three Tai Dan Sect members?


    Ying Lan continued to stare enviously, a look of longing shing in her eyes. Even the distant Qing Yun, the Wolf General, hadn''t yet recovered from his daze. Zhong Shan was simply too peculiar. Extremely peculiar!


    Zhong Shan held Bao''er tightly, as if trying to fuse her into his own body.


    "Master, Bao''er has returned," Bao''er said, tears of excitement glistening in her eyes.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan inhaled Bao''er''s fragrance and said, "It''s good that you''re back, it''s good that you''re back."


    Such simple words, yet they carried immense emotion, a feeling that could melt the heavens and earth.


    "Sect Leader," Elder Yao Yu called out inappropriately.


    At his call, Bao''er realized how embarrassing the situation was. Reluctantly, she snuggled in Zhong Shan''s embrace for a moment longer before gently pulling away.


    Holding Bao''er''s hand, Zhong Shan lightly leaped, and theynded in the square.


    The Tai Dan Sect members all descended to the ground, while Ying Lan waved her hand, dismissing all the guards.


    Zhong Shan continued to hold Bao''er''s hand, as if afraid that letting go would make her disappear. Feeling his grip, Bao''er''s heart felt sweet.


    "Sect Leader, the Heaven and Earth Cauldron is here. What about the great enmity of the Tai Dan Sect?" an elder asked in a deep voice.


    Hearing this, Bao''er''s brows furrowed, and her eyes turned cold as she red at the elder. Revenge? Was that more important than the Master?


    Zhong Shan quickly assessed the situation, frowning as he saw the elder pressuring Bao''er. "Bao''er, did you join the Tai Dan Sect?" he asked.


    Ignoring the elder, Bao''er gently answered Zhong Shan''s question first, "Yes, my master passed the position to me. I am now the leader of the Tai Dan Sect."


    Bao''er spoke very tenderly, as if to assure Zhong Shan that it didn''t matter if he had killed Tai Dan Sect disciples; she would support him.


    The three elders looked on with grim faces, coldly watching the scene.


    Hearing Bao''er''s words and seeing the expressions of the Tai Dan Sect members, Zhong Shan''s brow raised, a hint of a smile shing in his eyes. He quickly understood the situation.


    "It seems the great enmity of the Tai Dan Sect cannot be avenged. The massacre of the Tai Dan Sect members has already been avenged by the Sect Leader of the Kaiyang Sect, and this Heaven and Earth Cauldron was something I foundter," Zhong Shan immediately exined. Partly to dispel the hostility of the Tai Dan Sect members, and partly to help Bao''er gain better eptance from them.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s exnation, the Tai Dan Sect members frowned, ring coldly at him. Clearly, the deaths of fifty-three Tai Dan Sect members could not be dismissed with just a few words from Zhong Shan.


    "Who are you?" an elder asked coldly, ring at Zhong Shan.


    All three elders could see that Zhong Shan''s cultivation was only at the ninth level of the innate stage, and even then, his foundation was poor. If not for the sect leader''s earlier disy, they would have killed him already.


    "I am the ruler of the Great Zheng Dynasty and the husband of your sect leader," Zhong Shan dered firmly.


    "You..." The elder red at Zhong Shan, at a loss for words.


    Seeing the indignant expressions of the Tai Dan Sect members, Zhong Shan''s expression softened. "It''s understandable for you to have doubts about my words, but everything I''ve said is true. If you wait a few days, I can provide evidence to prove the events of that day."


    Zhong Shan''s softer tone indeed calmed the crowd somewhat, though the enmity of the Tai Dan Sect was not something that could be dismissed by a change in tone alone. The sect members were still wary, their expressions uncertain.


    "How do you n to prove it?" Elder Yao Yu asked.


    "I have a memory crystal from that day, but it''s in another ce right now. Give me a few days, and I will bring it to you. Then you can judge right from wrong for yourselves," Zhong Shan exined.


    The elders exchanged nces, then Elder Yao Yu nodded, "Very well."


    With their agreement, Zhong Shan smiled slightly. "In that case, please stay here for now. The Heaven and Earth Cauldron is located in our Imperial Hospital. You can guard the cauldron while waiting for the memory crystal."


    "You may stay here," Bao''er immediately instructed.


    "Yes," the three elders replied, looking at Zhong Shan with furrowed brows, while the other disciples obediently settled down.


    "Ying Lan, assign quarters to our guests," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood," Ying Lan nodded promptly.


    Zhong Shan and Bao''er then left together. Having been separated for many years, the couple had much to discuss.


    In the five-story pavilion of the former Zhong Mansion, which had been preserved even after bing part of the royal pce, Bao''er nestled in Zhong Shan''s arms, watching the sights of the capital.


    "Bao''er, this is my avatar. My true body is at the Kaiyang Sect and will return soon," Zhong Shan said softly.


    "Mm," Bao''er nodded happily.


    Only two people knew about Zhong Shan''s avatar ability: Bao''er and Kuier. But with Kuier gone, only Bao''er remained. Despite the distance and years of separation, Zhong Shan had always trusted his wife, believing she was the most reliable person he had chosen in this world.


    "Tell me about your life over these years," Zhong Shan gently stroked Bao''er''s hair.


    "Mm," Bao''er responded, enjoying the moment.


    At the Kaiyang Sect, Zhong Shan''s true body quickly packed his belongings and hurried out, filled with excitement. Bao''er, Bao''er had finally returned.


    At the sect''s entrance, Zhong Shan saw Shoushan sitting in front of his small house, sipping tea with a contented expression.


    Zhong Shan approached Shoushan, feeling grateful. If it hadn''t been for Shoushan''s intervention when the Thunder General chased him to the sect''s gate, he wouldn''t be where he was today. Moreover, Shoushan had saved Ling''er by infusing her with energy, allowing her to survive until Nie Qingqing''s arrival.


    As Zhong Shan neared, Shoushan looked up.


    "Senior," Zhong Shan greeted respectfully.


    Shoushan smiled slightly, "It''s a miracle. With your poor foundation, you''ve reached the ninth level of the innate stage in seven years. Ling''er had a good eye."


    "Thank you for the praise, Senior," Zhong Shan replied immediately.


    "Are you heading out?" Shoushan asked.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan responded earnestly.


    "Yes, go ahead. It''s good to go out and rx. But remember to return in four years for the Kaiyang Sect Grand Ceremony. It might be an opportunity for you," Shoushan advised after a moment''s thought.


    "I will," Zhong Shan responded promptly. Four yearster? The return of the Kaiyang Sect elders?


    "Oh, I almost forgot. In three years, the Kaiyang Sect will experience the once-every-seven-years Spiritual Tide. If you can reach the tenth level of the innate stage within these three years,e back early. The Spiritual Tide is the best opportunity to break through to the Golden Core stage. Don''t miss it," Shoushan added.


    "Spiritual Tide?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "You can ask Xuan Xin Zi about it when the timees," Shoushan said, shaking his head and closing his eyes again in contentment.


    "Thank you, Senior," Zhong Shan bowed slightly to Shoushan before quickly heading back to the Great Zheng Dynasty.


    In the Great Zheng Dynasty, Zhong Shan''s true body and avatar merged into one.


    Inside the Longevity Hall, the ministers waited patiently. However, unlike his usual punctuality, the emperor did not arrive today.


    The head eunuch entered through a side door and announced, "Everyone, His Majesty will rest for the day. The morning court will resume tomorrow."


    The ministers nced at Wei Taizhong, discussed among themselves briefly, and then dispersed in small groups.


    At this moment, the pce maids and eunuchs had been cleared out of Qianzheng Pce, leaving only two people inside.


    Under the warm brocade canopy, Zhong Shany on the bed, his muscr chest exposed, looking tenderly at his beloved, Bao''er.


    Bao''er was asleep, her face sweet and serene like a blooming magnolia. Her soft chest pressed against Zhong Shan''s strong body, causing her breasts to deform under their weight but feeling incredibly tender against his muscr chest.


    Her beautiful, rounded hips revealed a deep, enticing cleft. Even after a night of reunion, Zhong Shan still felt a sense of intoxication.


    Of course, this intoxication was unique to Bao''er. Even if another equally beautiful woman were in her ce, Zhong Shan would not show such an expression, because this feeling was infused with his love for Bao''er. It was this love that softened Zhong Shan''s otherwise rock-solid heart.


    His rough hand gently caressed Bao''er''s smooth, fair back. Zhong Shan took a deep breath, looking up at the green canopy above, his eyes filled with satisfaction and rxation. After so many years of living a tense life, Bao''er''s return allowed Zhong Shan to finally breathe a sigh of relief, making him feel that what he had now was the best.


    Despite his gentle movements, Zhong Shan''s actions woke Bao''er. Her long eyshes fluttered, and she rubbed her sleepy eyes before waking up.


    As Bao''er woke up, she quickly realized their current situation. Her smile remained, even growing a bit dreamy. She gently stroked Zhong Shan''s broad chest with her soft hand.

 Chapter 149 - 149 Heavenly Origin Divine Pill

    <h4>Chapter 149: Heavenly Origin Divine Pill</h4>


    "Awake?" Zhong Shan asked softly.


    "Yes," Bao''er murmured in her sleep.


    "You''ve endured a lot over these years," Zhong Shan said, gently stroking Bao''er''s fragrant shoulder.


    "No, it''s all worth it for you, my lord. I want to turn the Tai Dan Sect into the Tai Hospital of the Great Zheng Dynasty. From now on, the Tai Dan Sect will refine pills for the Great Zheng Dynasty," Bao''er said softly, looking at Zhong Shan.


    Looking at Bao''er in his arms, Zhong Shan felt a mix of emotions, ultimately turning into a deep affection as he gazed at her.


    "Didn''t you say it wouldn''t be possible without the consent of the three great elders?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "My lord, didn''t you teach me before? There''s no such thing as an impossible task, only insufficient incentives. I have a way to convince the three great elders. Once they agree, what more could the remaining Tai Dan Sect disciples do? Besides, they''ve all be too engrossed in pill refining," Bao''er said with a confident smile.


    "Really?" Zhong Shan said in surprise.


    "Of course. Bao''er has been out for all these years for you," Bao''er said confidently.


    "Good," Zhong Shan said, feeling a surge of excitement.


    The Tai Dan Sect, ording to Bao''er''s recent descriptions, had a prestigious history. Once highly revered in the divinend of China, it had only recently fallen to the point of developing on Tiang Ind. Even without its former glory, having such a sect join the Great Zheng Dynasty would significantly boost its development.


    Pills, the sacred medicine for cultivation, could cure diseases, heal wounds, increase true essence, and aid in breakthroughs. Bao''er had inherited the legacy of the previous Tai Dan Sect leader and possessed a storage bracelet filled with various elixirs, including the much-desired Ascension Pill.


    "It''s time to get up. It''s almost noon, and we need to meet the three great elders," Zhong Shan said softly.


    "Let Bao''er dress you, my lord. It''s been many years since Ist did this," Bao''er said tenderly.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan replied, standing up and allowing Bao''er to dress him piece by piece.


    Once they were both dressed, Zhong Shan and Bao''er ate some pastries together. At the dining table, Zhong Shan suddenly took out the Fengshen List.


    Seeing the Fengshen List, Bao''er''s eyes lit up. She had heard about it from Zhong Shan but had never seen it. Now she wanted to take a good look.


    The first row: King, Zhong Shan.


    The second row: National Beast, Wolf.


    The third row: Crown Prince, Zhong Tian. ..........


    The previously fixed words suddenly shifted, and the second row, National Beast, Wolf, moved back. Three more rows of words appeared.


    The first row: King, Zhong Shan.


    The second row: Queen, Wei Kuier.


    The third row: Queen, Gan Bao''er.


    The fourth row: Queen, Tian Linger.


    The fifth row: National Beast, Wolf. .........


    Seeing the newly added rows on the Fengshen List, Bao''er smiled slightly. She felt no jealousy about Wei Kuier being listed first and none towards Queen Tian Linger either. Zhong Shan had exined everything that had happened during her absence, and Bao''er felt more affection and gratitude towards Linger, who had saved Zhong Shan''s life.


    At the Tai Hospital of the Great Zheng Dynasty, Zhong Shan handed the memory crystal recording the events to the three great elders of the Tai Dan Sect.


    Watching the images within the crystal.


    "Elder Yao Yu." Elder Yao Yu immediately recognized.


    "The Phantom Sect has been destroyed. I assume you have all received the news by now." Zhongshan looked at the three elders with a smile.


    "As you say." Elder Yao Yu nodded.


    Now, Zhongshan''s Great Dong Empire was considered innocent. However, the Tian Di Xuan Huang Cauldron couldn''t stay here indefinitely. Being an item of the Tai Dan Sect, it naturally had to return.


    "Master, now that everything is clear, we should return the Tian Di Xuan Huang Cauldron to the Tai Dan Sect." Elder Yao Yu immediately stood up.


    "Please, allow me to say a few words." Zhongshan suddenly spoke.


    Elders Yao Yu, Yao Lu, and Yao Chen all turned their gazes to Zhongshan.


    "What do you think of my Great Dong Empire?" Zhongshan stared at the three with a smile.


    Hearing this, the three elders frowned slightly, looking at Zhongshan before them with a hint of strangeness. Zhongshan''s cultivation was too low, so low that it made them feel dismissive. But over the past few days, the three elders had seen the peculiarities of this low-level empire. In the distance, there was a Wolf God Temple, and astonishingly, it was guarded by a Wolf General.


    The Wolf n''s Supreme Emperor, Xuan Sha, had actually formed an alliance with the Great Dong Empire? And the current Emperor of Great Dong was even the husband of the sect master. This made the three elders ponder deeply.


    "What is your intention?" Elder Yao Yu spoke up.


    "The Great Dong Empire, though weak now, has a promising future unlike any other dynasty or empire. In the future, the Great Dong Empire will surely be the strongest. I, Zhongshan, earnestly invite you three to join the Great Dong Empire and create a prosperous era together." Zhongshan spoke sincerely.


    "Hmph, are you suggesting that the Tai Dan Sect should be vassals of your Great Dong Empire? Dissolve the Tai Dan Sect?" Elder Yao Yu''s eyes narrowed.


    Yao Yu''s eyes narrowed, and Yao Lu and Yao Chen also stared at Zhongshan.


    "No, the Tai Dan Sect remains the Tai Dan Sect, still a unified entity. It''s just a nominal attachment to the Great Dong Empire." Zhongshan said with a smile. Indeed, this couldn''t be achieved overnight; it needed to be umted slowly. Besides, he had Bao''er on his side; it was only a matter of time.


    "Yes, I have agreed." Bao''er spoke at the right moment.


    "Master." Yao Chen suddenly red at Bao''er.


    At this moment, the three elders were extremely angry. Although they were devoted to alchemy, they could still discern a hint of conspiracy from Zhongshan''s words. And yet, the sect masterpletely sided with Zhongshan. This... meant selling off the Tai Dan Sect. Despite the setbacks in this generation, the ancestral foundation couldn''t be surrendered like this.


    "You are unworthy of being the sect master of the Tai Dan Sect. Have you honored the legacy of the old sect master?" Elder Yao Chen immediately vented his anger.


    "Hehe, Elder Yao Chen, I hope you understand your position. I am the sect master of the Tai Dan Sect. Have you forgotten the Tai Dan Sect''s ancestral rules? In the Tai Dan Sect, the sect master holds the highest authority. Even if I were to dissolve the Tai Dan Sect now, no one could object." Bao''er suddenly said.


    "You..." Elder Yao Chen suddenly found himself at a loss for words, his chest heaving as he red at Bao''er.


    All three elders felt the same. Unlike other sects, the Tai Dan Sect''s rules dictated that each generation''s sect master had the ultimate authority, to the extent of being able to destroy the Tai Dan Sect at any time, because the Tai Dan Sect''s cultivation was different from other sects.


    Helplessly, the three elders could only watch as the ancestral foundation that hadsted for ages was annexed by the Great Dong Empire before their eyes, feeling an iparable sense of fury.


    "Elders, please don''t be angry, allow me to exin." Bao''er''s tone suddenly softened. It seemed the previous firm stance had worked; now it was time for the carrot.


    She slowly helped the three elders to sit down.


    But the chests of the three elders still heaved with fury as they continued to re at their sect master.


    "Bao''er has been favored by our master. How could I let down the ancestral foundation of the Tai Dan Sect? I also have my considerations. The Tai Dan Sect is no longer the glorious sect of the past; it has fallen to the lowest rank among the immortal sects. Bao''er wants to revive it in my generation, but can we achieve this with just us alchemists?" Bao''er spoke softly.


    Indeed, upon hearing Bao''er''s gentle words, everyone felt somewhat relieved, though they still frowned at her, hoping for a satisfactory exnation.


    "In the vastnd of China, the Great Luo Dynasty, the Great Li Dynasty, and the Great Tai Sui Dynasty, each of their dynasties has an alchemy sect attached. Look at them. Even though they have a celestial dynasty above them, how do theypare to our Tai Dan Sect? How were they before? These obscure alchemy sects, under the protection of the celestial dynasty, have thrived. Now, do we still have the qualifications to ridicule them? They have received the mostprehensive nourishment. How strong have they be now? The Tai Dan Sect also needs external support, a springboard for prosperity, and that is the Great Dong Empire." Bao''er said gently.


    Bao''er''s words made sense, but the three elders still frowned.


    "Seeking the protection of a dynasty, we shouldn''t settle for a minor empire. Even if we can''t join the celestial dynasty, there are plenty of empires and dynasties in China." Elder Yao Chen said.


    "Hehe, are you finding fault with the size of the Great Dong Empire?" Bao''er smiled slightly. Because of Elder Yao Chen''s words, it meant the elders'' beliefs were wavering.


    "Yes," Elder Yao Chen said straightforwardly.


    Bao''er smiled faintly, "Elders, I am now the queen of the Great Dong Empire. Tell me, where will the Tai Dan Sect receive more attention, in the Great Dong Empire or in other dynasties?"


    Upon hearing Bao''er''s words, the three elders frowned. It was obvious here, but the Great Dong Empire, like Zhongshan, had low cultivation.


    "The Great Dong Empire has gained the recognition of Emperor Xuan Sha. Its future is boundless. The imperial dynasty? It''s just a matter of time. If the Tai Dan Sect lends a hand, joining the celestial dynasty is not impossible. As long as there is time, which is just a matter of time, and considering the limited time the three elders have, I will give each of you double the lifespan. How about it?" Bao''er suddenly smiled brightly.


    "Whooo��" The three elders suddenly stood up, their eyes wide with excitement and longing.


    "You, are you talking about the Heavenly Origin Divine Pill?" Elder Yao Yu stared at Bao''er, his tone urgent, his breathing bing uneven.


    "Yes, it''s indeed my Tai Dan Sect''s ''Heavenly Origin Divine Pill.'' ording to the rules of the Tai Dan Sect, only the sect master is qualified to take it. As long as the three elders are willing, I will decide, and three out of the remaining five pills will be given to you. How about it?" Bao''er said confidently, as if she wasn''t afraid of their refusal at all.

 Chapter 150: The Ambition of the Flood Bull

    <h4>Chapter 150: The Ambition of the Flood Bull</h4>


    Heavenly Origin Divine Pill!


    These days, Zhongshan had also learned from Bao''er that it was the strongest pill of the Tai Dan Sect. It had been stored in the Tian Di Xuan Huang Cauldron, refined by the fourth-generation sect master of the Tai Dan Sect. It was an eighth-grade divine pill, with miraculous effects. It could cure all poisons, eliminate all evil, heal all injuries, and rapidly replenish true energy. However, the most important aspect was its ability to help one break through cultivation bottlenecks, akin to the Breaking Barrier Pill, enabling one to swiftly reach higher realms.


    It was usable for anyone below the Unity Stage.


    This pill was very gentle. Whether in the Innate, Golden Core, Nascent Soul, or Unity Stage peak, as long as one reached the peak, it could assist in the breakthrough. It wasn''t a possibility; it was a certainty, a guaranteed breakthrough.


    The cultivation of the three elders was at the peak of the Unity Stage. Due to the unique cultivation of the Tai Dan Sect, everyone''s cultivation depended on the achievements of the sect master. So, at present, the three elders were all stuck at the Unity Stage, unable to progress further.


    Above the Nascent Soul Stage was the Unity Stage. The Nascent Soul Stage had a lifespan of 800 years, while the Unity Stage had a lifespan of 1600 years. The three elders were already over a thousand years old. If they couldn''t break through before their lifespan was exhausted, they would face the five declines of heaven and man, returning to the yellow earth.


    Inside the Tian Di Xuan Huang Cauldron, there were originally eight Heavenly Origin Divine Pills. Among them, the sect masters of past generations had used two, and recently one had been taken by Shadow No Evil. Now, there were five left, all belonging to Bao''er.


    The three elders stared at Bao''er, their eyes shing uncertainly. The Heavenly Origin Divine Pill? Was the sect master really going to abandon the ancestral teachings and give it to them?


    "Elders, what do you think? The Great Dong Empire will inevitably be the Great Dong Dynasty, the Great Dong Empire, or even the Great Dong Celestial Dynasty one day. All of this requires the joint efforts of the three elders." Bao''er smiled.


    Zhongshan, standing beside her, also smiled faintly. He didn''t feel the slightest heartache over the Heavenly Origin Divine Pill. Money was meant to make more money, and this treasure was meant to obtain even greater treasures. If three Heavenly Origin Divine Pills could bring the three elders or even the Tai Dan Sect to their side, then their value surpassed anything else.


    Staring at Bao''er, the three elders took a deep breath, pondering continuously.


    "Good!" Elder Yao Yu was the first to speak.


    Good! This single word relieved Zhongshan''s heart, making it happen.


    Zhongshan was extremely excited in his heart, but on the surface, he remained calm.


    "Alright, three elders, three Heavenly Origin Divine Pills will be given to you immediately. From now on, the Tai Dan Sect will be a part of the Great Dong Empire, as the Tai Dan Court. The residence will still be the original Tai Dan Sect. One of the three elders must stay here in the imperial city, while the other two elders, one will begin the breakthrough, and the other will be responsible for protection. How about it?" Bao''er arranged.


    "Okay," the three elders nodded.


    "In that case, please follow me." Bao''er smiled.


    Bao''er led the way, followed closely by the three elders. Opening the door and walking out onto the square, there were already over twenty disciples of the Tai Dan Sect standing on the square. They all looked extremely respectful towards Bao''er and the three elders,pletely unaware that the entire Tai Dan Sect had been sold by their predecessors.


    On the other side, Wei Tai Zhong and others were waiting.


    In front of the eight wind holes of the Tian Di Xuan Huang Cauldron, Bao''er carefully examined each one. In front of one of the wind holes, she formed a strange seal with her hand and gently struck it.


    "Hummmm..."


    The Tian Di Xuan Huang Cauldron trembled slightly, and arge amount of spiritual energy suddenly surged out of the wind hole. The three elders watched excitedly, as only the sect master of the Tai Dan Sect knew how to open the Tian Di Xuan Huang Cauldron. Ordinary people couldn''t obtain the Heavenly Origin Divine Pill inside it, otherwise, the previous generations of elders would have taken it out long ago. Of course, the three elders were also extremely curious about how Shadow No Evil had managed to take out the Heavenly Origin Divine Pill, but Shadow No Evil was already dead, so there was no way to find out.


    The spiritual energy gushed out from the wind hole, followed by a golden pill the size of a longan, surrounded by swirling clouds and mist, appearing extremely mystical.


    "Elder Yao Yu," Bao''er called.


    "Oh, good!" Elder Yao Yu excitedly reached out and quickly took out a small jade bottle, swiftly collecting the flying Heavenly Origin Divine Pill.


    Elders Yao Chen and Yao Lu looked on with envy as Elder Yao Yu eagerly inspected and carefully stored away the pill. The two elders then looked back at Bao''er.


    Seeing the expressions of the three elders, Bao''er smiled slightly, following the same procedure. She swiftly took out two more Heavenly Origin Divine Pills, and Elders Yao Chen and Yao Lu joyfully epted them. Although they were all over a thousand years old, most of their time had been spent immersed in alchemy, and their depth of worldly understanding was not as profound��


    Three yearster, inside a pce within the imperial city of the Great Dong Empire.


    Zhongshan sat at the head, with Bao''er seated beside him, and Elder Yao Yu on the other side.


    "Elder Yao Yu, how do you feel now?" Zhongshan asked with a smile.


    "Pack of wolves searching for the heavenly treasures we desire, the people of the Tai Dan Court will have more time for alchemy, and the materials are also very abundant. It will be much faster than before. It seems that the Tai Dan Court will soon have to recruit more disciples." Elder Yao Yu chuckled.


    "Of course, you all have an easier time with alchemy, and these wolves are also happy with their findings. After all, apart from supplying the Great Dong Empire''s army with these low-grade pills, the rest will be given to these wolves searching for spiritual herbs. Their cultivation will also advance much faster." Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Yes, but I hope that Your Majesty can increase your cultivation early and lead the Great Dong Empire to greatness." Elder Yao Yu''s expression turned serious.


    Looking at Elder Yao Yu, Zhongshan smiled faintly, nodding. Although they had spent three years together, Elder Yao Yu still didn''t look up to the Great Dong Empire. After all, it was too low-level.


    Bao''er, on the side, noticed Zhongshan''s embarrassment and immediately stood up. "Alright, Elder Yao Yu, you continue to teach the disciples. His Majesty and I have other matters to attend to."


    Looking at Bao''er, Elder Yao Yu could only show a wry smile, nodding and standing up to respectfully see off Zhongshan and Bao''er.


    Zhongshan didn''t say much. The three elders had their own pride. Although they had joined the Great Dong Empire because of the situation and interests, their cultivation was already extraordinary. Before the breakthrough, they were already at the Unity Stage, and now they were even further ahead than before. They naturally harbored some resentment towards this ''master,'' who only had the cultivation of the Innate Stage.


    On the way, Bao''er and Zhongshan walked side by side.


    "My lord, please don''t mind. These elders are obsessed with alchemy and not very good with social graces," Bao''er softly spoke beside Zhongshan.


    "It''s okay. Isn''t it better to have such straightforward subordinates? Besides, what kind of person am I, to care about such things?" Zhongshan smiled.


    "Well, it''s just that the dynasty''s luck is still too little. Although your cultivation speed has increased a lot, it''s still a bit slow. After consuming so many pills these past three years, you only reached the tenth level of the Innate Stage a few days ago," Bao''er sighed.


    "Haha, reaching the tenth level of the Innate Stage in three years is already very good for me. It''s already good enough. And you know, when I was in the Postnatal Realm, in order to advance one level, I could sit in seclusion for several years," Zhongshanforted.


    "Well, my lord, are you going to the Kaiyang Sect soon?" Bao''er asked reluctantly.


    "Yes, now that I''ve reached the tenth level of the Innate Stage and opened all the meridians, I must quickly cultivate them into aplete Primordial Qi. The Kaiyang Sect''s spiritual tide is about to begin. This time, with your additional pills and the spiritual tide, I will definitely seed," Zhongshan said firmly.


    Seeing the determined look in Zhongshan''s eyes, Bao''er smiled foolishly.


    "Master, there are two Heavenly Origin Divine Pills left. You should take them too, just in case. After all, consuming another pill may not guarantee a breakthrough one hundred percent of the time," Bao''er said softly.


    "Two pills? Didn''t you say that a person can only consume one Heavenly Origin Divine Pill? Taking the second one won''t help with breakthroughs; at most, it will heal injuries and dispel toxins," Zhongshan replied, looking at Bao''er.


    "Master, please take them together. You know Bao''er''s constitution. They won''t be of any use to her. Let''s take them together just in case," Bao''er said firmly, looking at Zhongshan.


    Stopping in his tracks, Zhongshan stared at Bao''er, his eyes filled with tenderness and gratitude. Heaven has truly been kind to me.


    "Bao''er, for the next few days, I won''t attend court. I''ll apany you wholeheartedly."��


    More than nine years ago, Hongniu joined the Kaiyang Sect. Due to his excellent aptitude and the continuous nurturing of his master, Hongniu''s cultivation speed was extremely fast. He reached the fourth level of the Innate Stage in the second year. Among the group of disciples who had just joined, he progressed the fastest. However, just when Hongniu was at the height of his confidence, he was defeated by someone one stage lower than him, at the third level of the Innate Stage.


    It was a disgrace, an absolute disgrace. Hongniu was extremely unwilling to ept it. He doubled the intensity of his daily cultivation. Finally, after more than a year, Hongniu became the first among his group of new disciples to reach the sixth level of the Innate Stage, finally forming his true essence.


    After forming his true essence, the first person Hongniu thought of was the one who had defeated himst time, Zhongshan. He was determined to challenge him and regain his lost honor. But Zhongshan seemed to have disappeared, and it wasn''t until half a yearter that Zhongshan reappeared. However, the first person Zhongshan challenged upon his return was not him, but a cultivator at the ninth level of the Innate Stage.


    He was seeking death. Although Zhongshan had miraculously reached the sixth level of the Innate Stage, there was still a three-level difference between them. How could he possibly win? It was nothing short of courting humiliation. However, that battle deeply shocked Hongniu. Was Zhongshan truly at the sixth level of the Innate Stage? Even though he himself was also at the sixth level of the Innate Stage, witnessing the battle between Zhongshan and Nan Batian, he couldn''t muster any fighting spirit.


    Feeling disheartened, Hongniu returned home. But his disappointment soon turned into an even greater driving force, driving him to train even harder than before. He trained tirelessly day and night, hoping to narrow the gap between them.


    Finally, Hongniu seeded. As the spiritual tide of the Kaiyang Sect approached after seven years, Hongniu reached the tenth level of the Innate Stage. The tenth level of the Innate Stage, in just over nine years. As long as he underwent the baptism of the spiritual tide and continued his efforts, he would definitely reach the Golden Core Stage. At that time, what would Zhongshan count for?

 Chapter 151: Struggles in the Spiritual Tide

    <h4>Chapter 151: Struggles in the Spiritual Tide</h4>


    At the foot of Kaiyang Peak, within a valley, there lies a cave connecting to the peak. In this valley, there are two individuals. One is Hong Niu, who was defeated by Zhong Shan in the battle for the Ethereal Pearl over eight years ago. The other is a Jindan stage disciple of the Kaiyang Sect, who had flown Hong Niu here on


    his flying sword.


    "Master," Hong Niu addressed the other person.


    "Haha, from now on, you can call me Senior Brother," the other person replied.


    "Regardless, I must thank Master for taking care of me all these years; without your help, I wouldn''t have achieved what I have today," Hong Niu said sincerely.


    "This is the way of the Kaiyang Sect: one helps another in cultivation. You have exceptional talent. In the future, I might rely on you to guide me," the other person said with a smile.


    "Master, you don''t need to say that. The great kindness you''ve shown me is something I''ll remember forever. No matter what happens in the future, I will share both joys and hardships with you," Hong Niu dered.


    "Very well! Hong Niu, this is also an opportunity for you. During the arrival of the spiritual tide in the Kaiyang Sect, you''ve reached the tenth level of the Innate Stage. Such a coincidence! This time, only two people in the Kaiyang Sect have reached this level. You must seize this chance and strive to break through to the Jindan stage in one go," the other person advised.


    "Rest assured, Master. I will do my utmost," Hong Niu promised.


    "Haha, over the years, you''ve called me Master, and I haven''t given you much in return. Here is a pill to aid your breakthrough," the other person said confidently, taking out a small bottle and handing it to Hong Niu.


    Hong Niu took it with curiosity, opened the lid, and peeked inside. His eyes widened with joy. "Master, is this the Reascension Pill?"


    The other person nodded with confidence. "Indeed, it is the Reascension Pill. You know its value."


    "Yes, I know. The Reascension Pill, although a third-grade pill, is rarer than even fourth-grade or fifth-grade pills. It is extremely precious. Even the Sect Leader might not have one," Hong Niu said, extremely excited.


    "That''s right. I obtained this pill a few years ago by chance while traveling. I saved an important person, and in gratitude, they gave me this pill. Do your best to break through. You have a year. If you can''t manage it, then take the Reascension Pill," the other person instructed solemnly.


    "Don''t worry, Master. I understand," Hong Niu said, deeply moved.


    "Go on then, the acting Sect Leader will soone to seal the cave," the other person said.


    "Yes, Master." Hong Niu nodded and walked towards the cave leading deep into Kaiyang Peak.


    With excitement in his eyes, Hong Niu clenched his fists and a look of determination shed across his face. He must surpass Zhong Shan, no matter what.


    After Hong Niu entered the cave, Xuan Xinzi led Gu Suanzi to descend into the valley.


    "Greetings, Acting Sect Leader. Greetings, Lady Acting Sect Leader," the previous person immediately greeted respectfully.


    In the past few years, Gu Suanzi had be a Daoist partner with Xuan Xinzi, perhaps heeding Tian Xingzi''s advice and letting go of past grudges.


    "Have both of them entered?" Gu Suanzi asked.


    "Hong Niu has entered. As for Zhong Shan, I didn''t see him, but a Senior Brother mentioned he went in," the person quickly replied.


    "Zhong Shan is inside. No need to worry. Seal the cave," Xuan Xinzi said with a smile, clearly able to sense the inside with his divine sense.


    "Alright." Gu Suanzi nodded.


    With a wave of their hands, arge number of stones were moved to block the cave entrance. Then they took out a golden talisman, ced it on the entrance, and simultaneously performed a series of incantations. When the talisman and stones suddenly disappeared and the cave entrance transformed into a smooth boulder, they finally stopped.


    "Let''s go," Xuan Xinzi said.


    "Mm," Gu Suanzi nodded.


    Hong Niu continued walking deeper, as if descending to the earth''s core. In the distance, light appeared at the end of the passage, and Hong Niu walked towards it at a steady pace.


    When he reached the end of the passage, Hong Niu finally saw the scene inside.


    At the end of the passage, directly beneath the center of Kaiyang Peak, there was a circr area with a diameter of a hundred meters. Hanging above this circr area was a huge luminous pearl, and below was a deep pit, about five hundred meters deep. In this circr pit, two pirs stood, each five hundred meters tall, with ten-meter diameter tforms at their tops.


    Apart from the passage he had entered through, there were two other passages. Hong Niu knew these led to the underground of Yan Mountain Peak and Snow Bamboo Peak. Soon, the spiritual tide would flood through these passages.


    However, what caught his attention was not the passages, but the person atop one of the pirs'' tforms. It was someone familiar. Zhong Shan?


    Zhong Shan sat cross-legged on one tform, eyes slightly closed, hands in a mudra with index fingers touching, resting on his feet, meditating.


    Zhong Shan? He also reached the tenth level of the Innate Stage? Does he have the same remarkable talent as I do?


    Hong Niu frowned slightly but said nothing. All his surprise turned into determination. He must reach the Jindan stage before Zhong Shan.


    With a firm step, Hong Niu leapt to the top tform of the other pir and sat cross-legged like Zhong Shan.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan gently opened his eyes, nced at the fellow challenger, and nodded slightly as a greeting. Hong Niu also nodded in response.


    They spoke no more, waiting for the arrival of the spiritual tide.


    After waiting for about half an hour, it finally arrived.


    From the two passages, one leading to Yan Mountain Peak and the other to Snow Bamboo Peak, streams of energy began to flow in, converging at the center.


    These were not just air currents, but spiritual energy, vast amounts of it. From Yan Mountain Peak came yang energy, while from Snow Bamboo Peak came yin energy.


    The two streams of spiritual energy merged, causing the clothes of Zhong Shan and Hong Niu to flutter from the force.


    Spiritual energy��this was spiritual energy! How dense must it be to form such visible streams? Typically, spiritual energy is invisible and intangible, even in blessednds. It couldn''t possibly be as concentrated as this.


    The streams grew stronger, with the yang energy gradually taking on a fiery red hue, and the yin energy appearing icy blue, resembling mes and ice as they rushed into the center.


    Oddly, as soon as these two energies collided, they suddenly became calm.


    In the deep pit beneath the pirs, the energies gathered and settled, rising up to the tforms where Zhong Shan and Hong Niu sat. The yin and yang energies merged, quickly forming two yin-yang fish symbols made entirely of spiritual energy, with the two atop the pirs sitting at the eyes of the fish.


    Terrifying amounts of spiritual energy surged, impacting their bodies, almost ready to flood into their acupoints.


    Yet, this energy needed refinement. The two constantly refined and channeled it into their acupoints, much faster than absorbing from spirit stones. This was the spiritual tide, and cultivating here would be incredibly fast.


    The reason the Kaiyang Sect could stand strong for so long was likely due to this spiritual tide. Not just for breaking through to the Jindan stage, but even for reaching the Yuanying stage, this ce was invaluable.


    With an abundance of spiritual energy, there was no need for food. They only needed to focus on breaking through.


    A year''s time must be well utilized.


    Six monthster, Hong Niu gently opened his eyes. Feeling the boundless spiritual energy around him, Hong Niu hesitated. For the past month, he had felt just a step away from the Jindan stage, but a month had passed without breaking through. Should he take the Ascension Pill? Hong Niu knew that if he waited another six months, he could break through without the pill. However, that would consume six more months. At that point, he would only have just entered the Jindan stage. If he took the Ascension Pill now, he could reach the Jindan stage in less than ten days. The remaining six months could then be spent advancing further in this optimal environment, possibly reaching the first level of the Jindan stage, or even the second or third levels.


    As he pondered this, Hong Niu nced towards Zhong Shan.


    Just as Hong Niu was frowning, Zhong Shan seemed to awaken. Instead of looking at Hong Niu, he retrieved a small bottle from his hand. Under Hong Niu''s incredulous gaze, Zhong Shan poured out an Ascension Pill from the bottle.


    That''s an Ascension Pill? How could he have one?


    Ignoring Hong Niu, Zhong Shan continued his cultivation. Hong Niu watched with a mix of shock and curiosity.


    The next day, still undecided and curious about Zhong Shan''s progress, Hong Niu nced over again, just in time to see Zhong Shan take out the small bottle once more and pour out another Ascension Pill.


    Hong Niu''s eyes widened in disbelief. Zhong Shan had two Ascension Pills?


    On the third day, as Hong Niu saw Zhong Shan pour out yet another Ascension Pill and swallow it, he felt as if he was losing his mind. Was he seeing things?


    Three monthster, Hong Niu watched Zhong Shan with a numb expression. His eyes had be dull. Another Ascension Pill? This time, he took three at once? Was Zhong Shan even human? Where did he get so many Ascension Pills? Did he rob Tai Dan Sect of all their stock?


    With a heavy heart, Hong Niu took out his own small bottle from his storage bracelet. Looking at the bottle in his hand, he felt a sense of surreal dismay. The pride he had felt six months ago now turned into a deep sorrow. Were Ascension Pills really that precious?


    At this moment, Hong Niu had no choice but to take the Ascension Pill. The constant provocation from Zhong Shan over the past three months nearly brought him to tears. He was on the verge of madness, on the brink of a Qi deviation. He had to break through quickly; he could not dy any longer.

 Chapter 152: The Reappearance of Zi Xun

    <h4>Chapter 152: The Reappearance of Zi Xun</h4>


    (Despite using conventional names like Golden Core stage, Nascent Soul stage, and Integration stage, the internal structures in this story are rooted in orthodox Daoist principles. These include the formation of the Original Golden Core, Pure Yang Qi, achieving the Yang Spirit, and the Yin and Yang Spirits transforming into the Primordial Spirit. These concepts are derived from ancient Daoist texts I found during my research. Some might dispute these due to different Daoist schools, but they are undoubtedly from authentic Daoist scriptures. For instance, the Original Golden Core, the Purple Mansion, and Pure Yang Qi are all mentioned in ancient Daoist books. Just a note for readers, and a humble request for monthly votes!)


    Ten dayster, Hong Niu finally woke up and achieved a breakthrough. He had reached the Golden Core stage. Hong Niu felt an indescribablefort envelop his entire body. At the Golden Core stage, all his acupoints had harmonized into one, forming his Original Golden Core. At this moment, Hong Niu felt an overwhelming urge to roar into the sky.


    The sensation of reaching the Golden Core stage was exhrating. Just as he was about to open his mouth and let out a triumphant roar, Hong Niu stopped abruptly. Once again, he saw that vexing sight.


    It was Zhong Shan, always Zhong Shan. The moment Hong Niu opened his eyes, he saw Zhong Shan casually pouring four Rebirth Pills from a small bottle and tossing them into his mouth as if it were nothing.


    Hong Niu''s initial excitement deted instantly. How could Zhong Shan have so many Rebirth Pills? And what kind of constitution did he have? It had been days, how many Rebirth Pills had he consumed? These pills could create countless Golden Core stage experts, yet he squandered them like this. What kind of body did he have to require so many?


    Zhong Shan himself was equally frustrated. He had consumed Rebirth Pill after Rebirth Pill, but his innate potential was so poor that he had be almost immune to them. Initially, they had some effect, but the more he took, the weaker the effect became. His acupoints were continuously connecting, but in the end, he was still slightly short.


    The Shen Jiang acupoint, located near the heart, was a crucial one. Now, Zhong Shan needed to expel all the true essence within this acupoint, allowing the 360 acupoints'' true essence to transform through the unity of Primordial Qi into a higher energy stored within.


    The Shen Jiang acupoint, situated near the heart, after reaching the Golden Core stage, would unify all acupoints'' true essence into one. The final transformation would channel a stream of Pure Yang Qi into the Shen Jiang acupoint.


    Pure Yang Qi, purple in color, would be stored in the Shen Jiang acupoint, also known as the Purple Mansion.


    The Pure Yang Qi in the Purple Mansion is the source of magical power, crucial for casting spells post-Golden Core stage. Various spell seals and hand seals are released through this Pure Yang Qi.


    In the Golden Core stage, much of the cultivation involves umting Pure Yang Qi. Zhong Shan had already expelled the true essence from within, making his acupoints profoundly mysterious. Now, he needed topress the true essence from his 360 acupoints through the unity of Primordial Qi into Pure Yang Qi.


    But every time, he fell just a tiny bit short.


    After consuming countless Rebirth Pills, Zhong Shan finally abandoned the unrealistic hope. No more Rebirth Pills.


    Gently, Zhong Shan took out an exquisitely crafted purple-patterned small bottle.


    Not far away, Hong Niu''s eyes widened as he saw Zhong Shan take out another small bottle. When the bottle was opened, a pill that was not a Rebirth Pill rolled out.


    Despite the distance, Hong Niu could sense the immense spiritual energy contained within the pill. The aura it emitted even caused the surrounding spiritual tide to retreat slightly.


    What on earth is that?


    Hong Niu''s eyes bulged, but the pill had already been swallowed by Zhong Shan.


    The Heavenly Yuan Divine Pill, Zhong Shan finally decided to use it. As for what to do when he reached the Nascent Soul stage, that would be a problem for the future. If he couldn''t even reach the Golden Core stage, how could he talk about the Nascent Soul stage?


    The Heavenly Yuan Divine Pill dissolved instantly in his stomach, transforming into a unique energy. In an instant, his internal true essence became exceptionally smooth, merging into one unified stream. Soon, a violet mist-like Qi began to flow into the Purple Mansion.


    The Pure Yang Aura, it was finally achieved. An immense amount of true essence poured into his meridians. Zhong Shan continuously harnessed this Pure Yang Qi, and soon his true essence felt nearly depleted. Fortunately, the abundant spiritual tides in the cave quickly replenished him. Large amounts of Pure Yang Qi flowed into his Purple Mansion, which soon became shrouded in a hazy glow. However, as the Pure Yang Qi increased to a certain level, it seemed to reach saturation, causing some of it to return to the various acupoints. Surprisingly, this small amount of Pure Yang Qi transformed into arge quantity of true essence, rapidly filling the acupoints.


    Aside from the Purple Mansion, each of the 360 acupoints formed a small vortex of true essence, continuously gathering andpressing true essence, connecting with each other, and supplementing the Purple Mansion with Pure Yang Qi. The stronger the Pure Yang Qi, the greater the power.


    Now that he was saturated, Zhong Shan''s task was to continuouslypress the Pure Yang Qi, gather it again, andpress it further until eventually, the Pure Yang Qi could be condensed into a Nascent Soul.


    Golden Core Stage, he had finally reached the Golden Core Stage. The acupoints around his body were now one cohesive whole, providing immensefort. With himself as the Golden Core, his acupoints could absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, making him self-sufficient, no longer needing food.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    Zhong Shan roared in exhration as he broke through. With his roar, the Pure Yang Qi infused his voice, causing the spiritual tides in the cave to tremble violently.


    For ten breaths, Zhong Shan roared continuously, then finally stopped, his heart filled with satisfaction. He had reached the Golden Core Stage. Although he had consumed a Tianyuan Divine Pill, it was all worth it. As long as he moved towards immortality, any price for such elixirs was justified.


    Zhong Shan felt an overwhelming sense of relief. On the other side, Hong Niu felt far fromfortable. After consuming hundreds of ascension pills without breaking through, Zhong Shan had achieved it with just one pill in half a day? What kind of pill was this?


    Hong Niu''s eyes widened in disbelief. Zhong Shan, noticing Hong Niu''s gaze and mistaking it for being affected by his roar, cast an apologetic look.


    Hong Niu could only transform his shock into frustration and nodded at Zhong Shan.


    Having received Hong Niu''s ''forgiveness,'' Zhong Shan paid him no further mind and began practicing the technique Tian Xingzi had prepared for him, the ''Thunder Prison Pure Yang Art.'' With over two months in this environment filled with spiritual tides, he hoped to make further progress.


    Closing his eyes, Zhong Shan resumed his cultivation.


    The Thunder Prison Pure Yang Art was an advanced technique with ten levels. After reaching the tenth level, one would step into the Nascent Soul stage. However, it was extremely difficult to cultivate, requiring one to simte the characteristics of thunder with true essence to maximize its power. Like the ''Heaven-ying Sword Technique,'' it was a powerful technique that had not been sessfully cultivated within the Kaiyang Sect for a thousand years. Yet, Tian Xingzi did not deliberately choose a difficult technique for Zhong Shan; it was suited to his physique. Since facing the Thunder Scorpion''s eggs, Zhong Shan''s true essence had retained a trace of thunder, making him well-suited for this technique.


    During his practice, Zhong Shan noticed a peculiar phenomenon within himself.


    The Tianyuan Divine Pill had not only advanced him to the Golden Core Stage but had also brought about aprehensive breakthrough. His Tianmo Body Refinement Technique had suddenly reached the third level!


    The third level! This meant his strength could quadruple for an hour. Just thinking about it made Zhong Shan feel ecstatic.


    But that wasn''t the most exciting part. At his brow, the Red Luan me had transformed into a ttened shape��no, it was the embryonic form of a lotus-shaped me.


    The fourth level of the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture?


    The Red Luan Heavenly Scripture had saved him in numerous critical moments and was his most treasured technique. After a long period without breakthroughs, it had finally advanced to the fourth level thanks to the Tianyuan Divine Pill. Wouldn''t this mean he could release more Red Luan Mist in the future? The most potent aphrodisiac in the world, could it now be produced in bulk?


    Of course, Zhong Shan was well aware of the extraordinary aspect of the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture. It wasn''t about concocting aphrodisiacs; that cameter. But reaching theter stages of the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture was a necessary step now.


    It had been a year since Xuan Xinzi sealed his acupoints. It was time to unseal them.


    However, on this day, the Kaiyang Sect was unusually bustling. It had reached an unprecedented level of prosperity. Throughout the sect, numerous powerful individuals returned, nearly twenty Nascent Soul stage experts among them, and a staggering five hundred Golden Core stage cultivators. Many disciples of the Kaiyang Sect were recalled from all corners of the Divine Land.


    The death of the Kaiyang Sect''s sect master and the selection of a new one marked an immensely important day. No matter how busy or upied one might be, they had to return.


    The Kaiyang Sect flourished like never before.


    Under the Kaiyang Peak, over five hundred disciples stood solemnly, even the Nascent Soul stage experts stood among them, all gazing towards the edge of the peak.


    Guardians of the mountain and the sect, one on each side, stood there, their usually overlooked presence now radiating solemnity and gravity, akin to guardians of thew.


    In the center were three unfamiliar faces, two men and a woman.


    These three were the elders of the Kaiyang Sect summoned back from the Seven Stars Hall. The three elders stood at the forefront, solemnly observing Xuan Xinzi, who knelt in worship before them.


    The coronation ceremony of Sect Master Xuan Xinzi.


    Led by the three elders, witnessed by the disciples of the Kaiyang Sect.


    All three elders donned purple robes. The two men had chiseled features, exuding an aura of nobility. Standing there, they exuded an inexplicable sense of superiority.


    The female elder, with her soft hair tied up, possessed an extremely delicate face exuding a coldness even colder than blue silk. The numerous ribbons on her purple robe fluttered in the wind, entuating her captivating figure, as if she embodied all the beauty of the world.


    But the most captivating feature was the bare feet of the female elder, standing on the ground without any footwear. Her porcin-like feet rested on the earth, which seemed unusually clean beneath her. These enticing feet drew the attention of most observers away from her other beautiful qualities.


    If Zhong Shan were here, he would surely recognize her at a nce. Ten years ago, after the Dragon Gate Conference, he had a passionate night with her��the Violet Mist Fairy. The elder of the Kaiyang Sect, Violet Mist Fairy.


    One of the male elders stood in front of the other two elders, solemnly facing Xuan Xinzi, holding the Kaiyang War Spoon given to Xuan Xinzi by Tian Xingzi��the token of the Kaiyang Sect Master.

 Chapter 153: Reunion After Ten Years

    <h4>Chapter 153: Reunion After Ten Years</h4>


    "Starting today, Xuan Xinzi is officially the 20th generation Sect Master of the Kaiyang Sect. As the Kaiyang Martial Star, I present to you the Kaiyang Martial Spoon," the elder dered solemnly, extending the spoon towards Xuan Xinzi.


    "Yes, I will reside in Kaiyang, guard the Martial Constetion, and bring glory to the sect," Xuan Xinzi responded with utmost solemnity as he epted the Kaiyang Martial Spoon.


    "The ceremony isplete!" suddenly eximed the guardian at the side.


    "We pay our respects to the Sect Master," echoed the numerous disciples of the Kaiyang Sect in unison, offering their congrattions.


    Xuan Xinzi slowly raised the Kaiyang Martial Spoon and turned to look at the crowd of Kaiyang Sect disciples before him.


    Among them, the Nascent Soul stage cultivators were his senior brothers and sisters. Although they had been on the Divine Land for a while, they all originated from here. As for the Golden Core stage disciples, they were his nephews and nieces.


    "Alright, Sect Master, please give us your instructions, and we''ll begin the selection," the elder who handed the Kaiyang Martial Spoon to Xuan Xinzi said.


    "Mm," Xuan Xinzi nodded. In this moment, the previous reverence vanished instantly. Although the elders were his seniors, he was now the Sect Master, the leader of the sect, naturally not bound by seniority.


    "Nascent Soul stage senior brothers and sisters, pleasee over here. Golden Core stage disciples, stand by and await the elders'' selection," Xuan Xinzi addressed the crowd before him.


    "Yes," the disciples of the Kaiyang Sect responded.


    The Nascent Soul stage experts walked to stand behind the three elders, their eyes shing with a hint of regret and helplessness.


    Over five hundred Golden Core stage disciples straightened their posture. Some wore expressions of confusion, while others understood the situation. All of them focused their attention, especially the Kaiyang Sect''s Second Senior Brother, Tian Sha.


    Standing tall and erect, Tian Sha''s figure stood gracefully in the breeze, his robes fluttering lightly. He was undoubtedly the most outstanding among the five hundred disciples, being the number one Golden Core stage disciple of the Kaiyang Sect.


    Beside Tian Sha stood a man in white robes, holding a fan painted with mountains and rivers. Although folded now and held in his hand, he exuded an extraordinary air of confidence as he gazed at the three elders ahead. This man stood next to Tian Sha, indicating his formidable cultivation and high status among the second generation disciples. It was evident that he had just returned from the Divine Land.


    Nan Ba Tian stood behind, also standing straight as he gazed at the three elders ahead, knowing what opportunities awaited him.


    After surveying the over five hundred Golden Core stage disciples, Xuan Xinzi spoke, "The Kaiyang Sect is one of the seven allied sects of the Seven Stars Hall. There is an agreement between the Seven Stars Hall and the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. Every three hundred years, each elder of each sect can rmend a Golden Core stage disciple to enter the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty and be granted a fifth-grade official position. They will receive the sry of spiritual stones from the Heavenly Dynasty and be blessed with the dynasty''s fortune."


    As soon as Xuan Xinzi finished speaking, the bewildered disciples let out exmations of astonishment.


    The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty? Fifth-grade official position? Is this real? Fifth grade, that''s fifth grade! Spiritual stones are just one aspect; the most important thing is the dynasty''s fortune. The fortune gained from a fifth-grade official position is just slightly less than the fortune of the emperor''s seat. Now, a fifth-grade position? Even if it''s not the emperor''s fortune, it''s still countless fortunes. What a huge opportunity.


    Almost all the disciples of the Kaiyang Sect stood up straight, showing expressions of longing. Although they were from the Kaiyang Sect, the sect did not object to disciples joining the dynasty. By joining the dynasty, they would still be disciples of the Kaiyang Sect; the two systems were not contradictory.


    Xuan Xinzi stood aside, allowing the three elders to observe the disciples one by one.


    Among the over five hundred disciples, all of them in the Golden Core stage, Tian Sha had the highest cultivation level, at the tenth stage of Golden Core, just a tiny step away from reaching the Nascent Soul stage. It was this tiny difference that allowed Tian Sha to catch thisst train. Additionally, ording to the previous practices of the elders'' selections, if multiple sects had selections simultaneously, in order to avoid embarrassment for the Kaiyang Sect, the elders would usually choose the most outstanding candidate. And now, he was the most outstanding.


    The square fell into extreme silence, so quiet that it seemed as if everyone was waiting for a pin to drop.


    All the Golden Core stage disciples looked at the three elders with hopeful eyes, hoping that the elders would choose them.


    The male elder who had handed the Kaiyang Martial Spoon to Xuan Xinzi suddenly said, "Shui Wuhen!"


    "Yes," the elegant man in white beside Tian Sha immediately stepped forward with a smile.


    Shui Wuhen, the second senior brother of the Kaiyang Sect''s second generation, had a cultivation level just below Tian Sha''s. Moreover, because his father held an official position in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, it was expected that he would be the first to be chosen this time. Even Tian Sha only furrowed his brows slightly in response; there wasn''t much opposition.


    There were still two more opportunities, and two more Golden Core stage disciples needed to be chosen.


    At this moment, another male elder spoke up, and all eyes turned to him.


    "Who is the son of Nan Wentian?" the elder asked directly. Nan Wentian''s son? Obviously, this was about using connections.


    Tian Sha frowned slightly, annoyed by the elder''s favoritism, but there was nothing he could do. The elders made the choices, and others couldn''t intervene or have a say.


    At this moment, Nan Ba Tian walked out with a hint of confusion.


    "Son of thete Nan Wentian, Nan Ba Tian," Nan Ba Tian said respectfully to the elder.


    The elder looked at Nan Ba Tian, his previously stern expression suddenly softened a lot, as if he had a deep friendship with Nan Wentian. Even the other two elders looked at Nan Ba Tian with gentle expressions.


    "Alright, prepare to apany me to the Divine Land," the elder said.


    "Thank you, Elder," Nan Ba Tian immediately replied, his eyes shing with surprise and gratitude.


    And so, the two pre-selected individuals were chosen, leaving one more spot.


    All the disciples of the Kaiyang Sect looked at Elder Zi Xun. This was thest chance. Please, you must choose me.


    Tian Sha also stared at the elder with a longing expression.


    Elder Zi Xun furrowed her brows slightly, her eyes cold as she looked around at the disciples of the Kaiyang Sect. Finally, she nced at Tian Sha. Indeed, Tian Sha was the best choice��


    In the Kaiyang Sect''s spiritual tide cave, the tide had receded, and Zhong Shan had also reached the first stage of the Golden Core. He felt extremely content. Walking with Hong Niu to the entrance of the cave where they hade from before, Zhong Shan observed the sealed cave entrance with a slight frown.


    Raising his hand, Zhong Shan wielded his greatsword, Nightmare.


    At this moment, Nightmare had reached the power of a second-grade magical treasure. After a year of tempering, it had be even more formidable.


    Aiming at the cave wall, Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold as he infused his true essence into the sword. With a mighty swing, a huge sword beam apanied Zhong Shan''s strike, roaring towards the cave wall, with faint traces of lightning threads within the massive sword beam.


    "Boom!"


    With a loud noise, as the sword passed, the seal on the cave entrance was instantly shattered, and arge number of debris was sted out by the force of the strike.


    Dust filled the air, and the piercing sunlight once again shone in. It had been a year, a whole year, and this time of seclusion hadsted for a full year. But in the end, it was quite rewarding��the first stage of the Golden Core!


    As for the Hidden Body Realm, Zhong Shan had even less reason to worry. He had also reached the first stage of the Golden Core. As for his cultivation technique, it came from the Tai Dan Sect. Although the Tai Dan Sect mainly focused on alchemy techniques, there were also instances in the past where people traded their cultivation techniques for pills. Therefore, the cultivation techniques were diverse, and Zhong Shan chose a technique called "Nine Abyss Devil Shadow."


    With his physical body, Zhong Shan, apanied by Hong Niu, slowly walked out of the dusty cave��


    Elder Zi Xun scanned the Golden Core stage disciples of the Kaiyang Sect, and finally, her gaze fell on Tian Sha. Indeed, he was the one the Kaiyang Sect should choose.


    Tian Sha, upon seeing Elder Zi Xun''s gaze, felt a surge of excitement.


    Just as Elder Zi Xun was about to speak��


    "Boom!"


    From beside the mountain valley, there suddenly came a loud noise, and arge amount of rubble sted out from the mountainside, spraying into the sky, indicating a powerful impact from within.


    Some of those who had been inside knew that the cave was a treasure of the Kaiyang Sect, a ce of spiritual tides.


    The interruption caused Tian Sha to furrow his brows, and the three elders all wore expressions of impatience. Everyone''s attention shifted to the source of the disturbance.


    Amidst the billowing dust, two figures slowly emerged.


    The one in the lead was carrying arge sword, a burly figure that entered everyone''s sight, while the other seemed somewhat timid, looking at the burly figure with a strange expression.


    Seeing the two, Xuan Xinzi smiled slightly. Zhong Shan had broken through. He couldn''t see through Zhong Shan''s cultivation anymore. Breaking through to the Golden Core stage, senior brother, it''s time for you to rest in peace in the Heavenly Spirit.


    Tian Sha looked at Zhong Shan, his eyes narrowed, shing with a hint of disgust. This disgust didn''te from Zhong Shan''s cultivation level; after all, Zhong Shan had now reached the Golden Core stage. It came from past memories. Although Tian Ling''er and Bei Qingsi had left Zhong Shan, the sense of defeat was deeply imprinted in Tian Sha''s heart.


    What was wrong with himself? He was the most outstanding one. This person, with his low cultivation and extremely poor aptitude, had a bleak future, yet he was favored by Tian Ling''er and Bei Qingsi. Even their master had favored him more during his lifetime. Humph!


    Both male elders frowned as they looked at the two figures, knowing why they hade out from inside. However, the sudden disturbance had caused both elders to show a trace of displeasure.


    As for Elder Zi Xun, at this moment, she waspletely stunned!

 Chapter 154: It鈥檚 You Again

    <h4>Chapter 154: It''s You Again</h4>


    "Him?" Elder Zi Xun widened her eyes, looking at Zhong Shan. It had been ten years. Although she had only nced at his face briefly and had been forcing herself to forget it, over the past ten years, instead of fading, his face had haunted her mind like a nightmare, reying over and over again.


    That night, even though she was in a daze, she would never forget his appearance. Despite being much younger now, it was still him, still that man, the man whose name she didn''t even know.


    She had thought she would never encounter this man again. Maybe in a few more years, she could truly forget about him! Was it heaven''s jest? Why, why had he appeared again?


    Elder Zi Xun closed her eyes, hoping that when she opened them again, she would find that she was mistaken. But when she opened her eyes, he was still there.


    Why him? How was he here? In the Kaiyang Sect? Ten years? Could someone with such poor aptitude reach the Golden Core stage in just ten years?


    Zhong Shan swaggered out of the smoke, but as soon as he emerged, he stiffened and widened his eyes.


    Hundreds of people on the square below Kaiyang Peak were giving him their full attention.


    Tian Sha, Nan Ba Tian, Xuan Xinzi, Gu Shuangzi, and... there she was...


    Ten yearster, he finally saw her in the Kaiyang Sect. Zi Xun Fairy.


    However, Zhong Shan only nced at Zi Xun Fairy briefly before looking away. The events of that day were just a memory now, a one-night stand without preamble or aftermath.


    To describe it with a poem: "The matter ended, I brushed off my clothes, concealed myself, and my name."


    Of course, Zhong Shan had another consideration: a woman''s dignity. If Zi Xun Fairy chose to preserve her purity and stabbed him with a sword, it would not be worth it. Zhong Shan wasn''t so conceited as to think he could win over a woman based solely on one night of forgotten intimacy.


    Zhong Shan immediately put away his broadsword and looked at the more than five hundred people gathered in the square with great confusion. Sect Master Xuan Xinzi immediately walked towards Zhong Shan.


    Elder Zi Xun had been staring at Zhong Shan all along, her brows furrowed. Because of her extra attention to Zhong Shan, she noticed his momentary reaction when he looked at her. However, that gaze lingered on her for only a moment before shifting away.


    Elder Zi Xun knew she had been recognized. Remembering the events in the forest back then, she blushed slightly at first, then suddenly burst into a chill. However, as Zhong Shan shifted his gaze away, the chill vanished in an instant.


    Elder Zi Xun felt a bit flustered and hesitant. Taking a deep breath, she suppressed her inner turmoil and looked at Zhong Shan coldly. The initial chill dissipated, reced by a coldness that seemed to treat him as a stranger. But in the eyes of everyone present, Elder Zi Xun and Zhong Shan were indeed strangers.


    In the short time it took, Sect Master Xuan Xinzi had already walked up to them and exined the situation briefly.


    "Is it true, Sect Master?" Zhong Shan looked at Xuan Xinzi in astonishment.


    "Yes, you two go stand at the back. Don''t dy the selection by the three elders," Xuan Xinzi immediately said.


    "Yes," Hong Niu responded promptly.


    Zhong Shan also nodded and walked towards the back row of Golden Core disciples. In Xuan Xinzi''s view, no matter how Elder Zi Xun chose, she wouldn''t pick Zhong Shan and Hong Niu. After all, these two were at the bottom of the Golden Core stage, especially Zhong Shan, whose aptitude made Xuan Xinzi feel a pang of heartache just from looking at him. Could someone with such aptitude be chosen by Elder Zi Xun? Standing at the back was just going through the motions. They shouldn''t disturb the selection by the three elders; there were still hundreds of Golden Core disciples waiting.


    zhongshan walked to the back row, his eyes fixed on the front. Nan Ba Tian and another man had been chosen, leaving onest chance, which now rested in Elder Zi Xun''s hands.


    Who would she choose?


    Zhong Shan didn''t dare to hope that their past night of passion would make Elder Zi Xun open doors for him. After all, he had chosen to forget that night, so it wasn''t something he cared about. But the allure of a fifth-ranking official position in the Heavenly Dynasty was too great.


    Zhong Shan didn''t just want to improve his luck, he wanted to join one of the Heavenly Dynasties. Even back in the Lingchao Cave, Zhong Shan had this idea. After reaching the Golden Core stage, he would go to the Divine Continent to broaden his horizons and sharpen his cultivation. He knew that therger the dynasty, the harder it was to control luck, and he needed to learn how to grasp the overall situation, toyout strategies for the world. This required continuous learning. With Hidden Body in charge of the Great Rong Dynasty, his main body could go and observe and learn, so that when the Great Rong Dynasty upgraded in the future, he could adapt quickly.


    A fifth-ranking official position in the Heavenly Dynasty was the best shortcut. Moreover, it came with arge amount of luck, which would greatly elerate his cultivation.


    Zhong Shan''s brows furrowed into a gully as he stared at Elder Zi Xun through the crowd of senior disciples. There was no desire or emotion in his gaze. Everything was fate. If she chose him, he would owe her a favor. If not, he wouldn''t overthink it.


    "Elder Zi Xun, the disciple who just came out of the Lingchao Cave, you can continue," Sect Master Xuan Xinzi said to Elder Zi Xun.


    The other two elders nodded, showing they didn''t mind. Elder Zi Xun also nodded.


    Standing in front of over five hundred Golden Core disciples, Elder Zi Xun took a deep breath. All the Golden Core disciples looked at her with anticipation. Each one stared at her. In the past, Elder Zi Xun wouldn''t have cared. After all, she had experienced all kinds of situations. However, among all these gazes, there was one pair that, though not particrly intense, seemed to radiate a starry brilliance that overshadowed everyone else''s eyes.


    Through the crowd of Golden Core disciples, standing at the very end, was him!


    Feeling something amiss, Tian Sha frowned. After the two men came out earlier, Elder Zi Xun stopped paying attention to him. She had previously been looking at him, ready to choose him.


    Was there a problem?


    Tian Sha stared anxiously at Elder Zi Xun. "Elder, have you made your choice?" Sect Master Xuan Xinzi asked Elder Zi Xun.


    Elder Zi Xun nced at the Golden Core disciples, then at Zhong Shan, and finally, after some thought, she took a deep breath and pointed her finger at Zhong Shan''s direction. "It''s the one who was holding the knife just now."


    The one holding the knife just now!


    After Elder Zi Xun spoke, the Golden Core disciples erupted in astonishment. However, after the initial shock, they quickly fell silent, wearing expressions of disbelief as they looked at Zhong Shan, who was thest one in line.


    "Zhong Shan,e forward," Sect Master Xuan Xinzi said excitedly.


    Perhaps due to the association, Zhong Shan, Tian Xingzi''s disciple, Tian Xingzi''s son-inw, the person closest to Tian Xingzi after Tian Ling''er, came to mind. As Sect Master Xuan Xinzi felt happy for Zhong Shan, he silently mourned Tian Xingzi in his heart.


    Zhong Shan? His name is Zhong Shan? Elder Zi Xun coldly stared at Zhong Shan in the distance, pondering.


    Looking at Elder Zi Xun in surprise, Zhong Shan couldn''t believe he had such charm. What was Elder Zi Xun thinking? Why would she choose him, the ''weakest'' among the more than five hundred Golden Core disciples?


    With doubts in his heart, Zhong Shan slowly walked to the front amidst the puzzled gazes of everyone present.


    Zhongshan couldn''t quite fathom why Elder Zixun had chosen him, but an opportunity was an opportunity, one he couldn''t afford to pass up. Slowly, he advanced to the forefront.


    Nan Batian wore a pleased expression as he looked at Zhongshan. Within the Kaiyang Sect, Nan Batian had only two friends: Tian Ling''er and Zhongshan. Tian Ling''er was elusive, but regarding Zhongshan, Nan Batian hoped for the best.


    Most disciples disyed despondent expressions, some showed jealousy and envy, and one even harbored a resentful re.


    Tian Sha''s gaze bore into Zhongshan. Seeing Zhongshan being chosen, something that should have belonged to him, Tian Sha felt robbed.


    "Robber! You''re a robber!" Tian Sha suddenly yelled. His eyes turned red, his forehead mark emitting a faint crimson glow, gradually transforming into a crimson me that danced above his brow.


    Tian Sha''s eyes reddened, a sign of impending demonic possession.


    "It''s you again! Why do you always oppose me? You trash, you thief!" Tian Sha screamed, almost capturing everyone''s attention. All eyes turned to Tian Sha, filled with shock. What was the senior brother doing? What was his intention?


    Zhongshan walked to Nan Batian''s side, hearing Tian Sha''s furious roar behind him. His heart clenched, a sense of imminent danger creeping over him. Not good, Tian Sha harbored murderous intent towards him.


    So many disciples of the Kaiyang Sect, the three elders, and the Sect Master were present. Would Tian Sha dare to strike against him?


    Swiftly turning his head, Zhongshan saw a pair of menacing red eyes and the eerie crimson me above Tian Sha''s brow, exuding a peculiar aura.


    Yet, what Zhongshan found most dangerous wasn''t Tian Sha''s gaze but his right hand reaching for the hilt of his ck sword, forming a peculiar gesture.


    The Heaven-Cleaving Sword Technique!


    Was Tian Sha going to unleash the Heaven-Cleaving Sword Technique against him?


    "Whoosh~" Without hesitation, Zhongshan drew his nightmare-like greatsword, pointing it directly at Tian Sha.


    Possessed by evil, Tian Sha''s hand gripped the sword''s hilt, poised to execute the Heaven-Cleaving Sword Technique. The moment hung on a thread between life and death.


    3.5

 Chapter 155: The Incredibly Powerful Zixun

    <h4>Chapter 155: The Incredibly Powerful Zixun</h4>


    Zhongshan felt a force locking him in ce, rendering him immobile. Tian Sha, at the tenth stage of Golden Core, seemed to be fixated on him like a madman, hand gripping the sword hilt, his red eyes gleaming with cold intent.


    "Sizzle~~~" In the moment Zhongshan''s expression tightened, Tian Sha drew his sword without hesitation.


    The Heaven-Cleaving Sword Technique!


    As the sword was unsheathed, darkness shrouded the heavens and earth. Zhongshan didn''t dare to hesitate. He activated the Demonic Essence Body**, the third stage! Quadruple strength. His technique was the Thunder Purgatory Pure Yang Art''s de technique, the Thunderous Wrath of Heaven and Earth!


    "Boom~~~" Amidst the blinding light, a thunderous roar echoed, followed by crackling sounds, the reverberation of thunder.


    As the intense light faded, all disciples of the Kaiyang Sect looked at this suddenmotion. The change was too abrupt, leaving everyone momentarily bewildered.


    The first rule of the Kaiyang Sect: No fighting amongst disciples. Those who kill fellow disciples shall be executed!


    The senior brother vited the rule!


    As the light from the Heaven-Cleaving Sword Technique dissipated, everyone looked towards the source with shocked expressions.


    Thunder, a vast amount of thunder, formed a barrier in front of Zhongshan. Despite his fierce strike, Zhongshan''s de merely caused the thunder barrier to distort slightly.


    His strike was blocked by the thunder barrier, but on the other side of it, a figure appeared out of nowhere �C Elder Zixun. She abruptly materialized between Tian Sha and Zhongshan, using the thunder barrier to block Zhongshan''s attack while facing Tian Sha. With delicate fingers, she lightly intercepted Tian Sha''s sword.


    Too powerful! Tian Sha was too powerful, and Elder Zixun was even more so!


    Tian Sha''s sword, an absolute force under the Golden Core stage, would be difficult for even an early Yuan Ying stage cultivator to withstand. Yet, Elder Zixun intercepted it effortlessly, using just two fingers.


    "Hiss~~~" Cultivators at the Golden Core stage collectively sucked in a breath, their eyes filled with shock and admiration. Elder Zixun, the elder of the Kaiyang Sect, demonstrated her strength by casually blocking Tian Sha''s formidable attack.


    As Zhongshan''s strike failed and a thunder barrier appeared before him, he saw Elder Zixun in front of him and furrowed his brow, swiftly retracting his de.


    Did she save me?


    As Zhongshan withdrew his de, Elder Zixun also frowned slightly. A single strike, was this the power of the first stage of the Golden Core? No, it had to be amplified at least fourfold.


    "Those who obstruct me shall die! Those who obstruct me shall die!" Tian Sha''s sword was trapped between Elder Zixun''s fingers, but he remained in a frenzied state, continuously attempting to draw his sword, shouting angrily.


    "Hmph~~~" Elder Zixun snorted, loosening her fingers and lightly flicking.


    "Boom~~~" Tian Sha, along with his sword, was suddenly sent flying, crashing into a distant mountain with a thunderous impact. The tremendous force instantly pierced through the mountain, and Tian Sha''s body came to a halt on the cliff of another mountain behind it.


    "Splurt~~~" Elder Zixun flicked her finger, sending Tian Sha flying, heavily wounded and coughing up blood!


    Too powerful! At this moment, not only the disciples at the Golden Core stage, but also those at the Nascent Soul stage, and even the other two elders, looked at Elder Zixun with absolute reverence.


    This was absolute strength. Once again, the disciples realized the true power of the Kaiyang Sect. With such formidable strength, was it only one of the seven major alliance sects under the Kaiyang Sect?


    As Tian Sha spat out blood, he seemed to calm down significantly, feeling the pain of his injuries. He looked at the mountain he had pierced through and then at Elder Zixun on the other side.


    Elder Zixun? Too powerful.


    With a nce, Tian Sha''s expression turned cold again as he saw Zhongshan, his eyes full of resentment. Remembering his actions just now, Tian Sha took a deep breath, shook his head, and swiftly flew towards the south, heading straight for the exit of the Kaiyang Sect''s grand formation.


    "Senior Brother~~~" Over a dozen disciples of the Kaiyang Sect immediately followed, obviously once deeply admiring Tian Sha.


    Elder Zixun retrieved the thunder barrier behind her with a wave of her hand, then turned to the other two elders and Xuanxinzi.


    "Prepare them. We depart in three days," Elder Zixun said, before flicking her sleeve and disappearing like a lingering shadow, shooting up towards the peak of Kaiyang.


    "Yes," the other two elders replied.


    Xuanxinzi nodded.


    Then, the other two elders said something to Xuanxinzi before flying off in different directions.


    Departing in three days?


    Tian Sha had left, the three elders went to rest, but the disciples on the square still gazed silently at Xuanxinzi. After all, the previousmotion was too absurd.


    Senior Brother tried to kill Zhongshan? No, Senior Brother was possessed just now. But even if possessed, he shouldn''t have tried to kill a fellow disciple of the Kaiyang Sect.


    Standing at the forefront, Xuanxinzi was surrounded by disciples at the Nascent Soul stage.


    "Senior Brother," one of the Nascent Soul stage disciples said to Xuanxinzi.


    "Wait~~~" Xuanxinzi remained extremelyposed, speaking faintly before falling silent in front of everyone.


    The atmosphere became extremely oppressive. Everyone understood the meaning behind Xuanxinzi''s words �C to wait for the return of the disciples who had pursued Tian Sha.


    An hour passed, a full hour of waiting. The disciples at the Golden Core stage returned in twos and threes, quickly flying back to their original positions on the square.


    "Yun Qian!" Xuanxinzi called.


    "Yes, Sect Master." Yun Qian, who had just returned, stepped forward immediately.


    "Where is Tian Sha?" Xuanxinzi asked calmly.


    All eyes turned to Xuanxinzi.


    "Senior Brother left the Kaiyang Sect and headed straight northwest. We chased for half an hour but couldn''t catch up. Senior Brother may have gone to the Divine Continent. Sect Master, Senior Brother may have been cultivating and identally lost control. He waspletely unaware of his actions. Please forgive him, Sect Master," Yun Qian said, expressing his concerns.


    "Please forgive him!" The twenty or so disciples who had gone out earlier immediately knelt down, pleading for Tian Sha.


    However, more disciples of the Kaiyang Sect were focused on Xuanxinzi, waiting for his decision. Regardless of the reason, Tian Sha had made a move. The first rule of the Kaiyang Sect was to prohibit fighting among disciples. Whoever kills a fellow disciple shall be executed.


    "Hmph, Senior Brother? From today onwards, there will be no Tian Sha in the Kaiyang Sect," Xuanxinzi dered immediately.


    "Yes," Yun Qian and the others kneeling on the ground sighed softly, while the rest of the disciples also let out relieved sighs.


    Xuanxinzi had done his best. Tian Sha was a disciple of Tian Xingzi, but this time, he hadmitted a forbidden act in front of everyone. If it were someone else, their cultivation would have been abolished and they would have been expelled from the sect, or even executed. However, Xuanxinzi merely expelled Tian Sha from the sect without saying anything else, which could be considered as another favor to Tian Xingzi.


    "Dismissed. You may leave," Xuanxinzi said to the disciples of the Kaiyang Sect.


    "Yes," the disciples at the Golden Core stage immediately responded, and then dispersed one after another.


    Most of the Nascent Soul stage disciples on the square also left, leaving only a few waiting with Xuanxinzi.


    Xuanxinzi faced Zhongshan, Nan Batian, and Shui Wuheng.


    "The three of you, prepare yourselves. In three days, apany the three elders to the Divine Continent," Xuanxinzi said.


    "Yes," the three of them replied simultaneously.


    Then, they left the square together.


    "Zhongshan, this is Second Senior Brother Shui Wuheng. He has been in the Divine Continent all this time and only returned today because of the ceremony," Nan Batian immediately introduced.


    "Second Senior Brother," Zhongshan greeted.


    "Hehe, don''t call us like that. We''ll be colleagues in the future. Just call me Shui Wuheng! Nan Batian, I know you''re Zhongshan?" Shui Wuheng smiled as he unfolded his paper fan.


    "Yes," Zhongshan nodded.


    "I''m very curious. Tian Sha is such a proud person. How did you manage to anger him like that? I can''t believe it was just because of today''s selection ceremony!" Shui Wuheng shook his paper fan, expressing his curiosity.


    "Huh?" Zhongshan paused��


    On top of the five-story tower of the Great Mountain Dynasty.


    "Master, are you really leaving in three days?" Bao''er asked with concern.


    Holding Bao''er in his arms, Zhongshan said softly, "Yes, I am. But don''t worry, my main body is leaving, but my hidden body will stay here. At least I''ll always be by your side. Once I settle things over there, I''lle back."


    "I know, I''m just worried about your safety, Master. If I had known, I would have brought all the elixirs with you," Bao''er said somewhat dejectedly.


    "Haha, there are already so many elixirs, we can''t finish eating them all. I even brought the Heavenly Yuan Divine Pills. Bringing more would just waste my storage space," Zhongshanughed, while gently stroking Bao''er''s long hair.


    "Okay, but please be careful, Master!" Bao''er said again.


    "Mm," Zhongshan nodded��


    A monthter, northwest of Tiang Ind, on the vast endless sea.


    On a white cloud, six figures were flying �C the three elders of the Kaiyang Sect, Zhongshan, Nan Batian, and Shui Wuheng.


    Standing on the cloud and looking at the boundless sea, Zhongshan felt a little excited. The Divine Continent, a legendary ce, I''ming, Zhongshan ising!

 Chapter 156: Dragon

    <h4>Chapter 156: Dragon</h4>


    Standing on the cloud with the three elders, Zhongshan looked out at the vast and endless sea, feeling relieved.


    As for Elder Zixun, she hadn''t exined why she had chosen him these days. She hadn''t even spoken to him and had been giving him the cold shoulder. Zhongshan didn''t bother touching that moldy head.


    Although Shui Wuheng was the Second Senior Brother, he didn''t act arrogantly like Tian Sha. He and Zhongshan got along well in conversation. However, Zhongshan could tell that while Shui Wuheng had no intention of harming him, their rtionship was only superficial. It wasn''t as congenial as it had been when he first met Zhao Suoxiang.


    "Senior Brother Shui, were you previously employed in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty?" Nan Batian asked.


    "Yes, I was just a minor official of the eighth rank under my father''smand. Thanks to the elders for giving me this opportunity," Shui Wuheng nodded.


    While Zhongshan, Nan Batian, and Shui Wuheng were conversing, suddenly, a massive column of water erupted from the sea below.


    The white clouds stopped, and an elder immediately flew out, casting a cold nce at the suddenly ''ambushing'' water column.


    The white clouds stopped, and everyone looked down together.


    "Boom~"


    Another massive column of water shot up into the sky. Then, from the surface of the sea, a giant golden dragon head suddenly emerged.


    A dragon?


    It was Zhongshan''s first time seeing a dragon, a real dragon, with a camel head, deer horns, ox nose, and carp whiskers. During the pursuit of Prince Haosan, most of the creatures they encountered could only be considered snakes. There was only one true dragon, but even that dragon had only one horn. In front of them now, however, was a pair of majestic dragon horns, a true dragon.


    This dragon was golden in color. Through its eyes, Zhongshan sensed a hint of youthfulness. Yes, it was youthful, as if this dragon were still in its infancy.


    But even though this young golden dragon was still young, it had a head the size of a small table.


    With a loud noise, the golden dragon burst out of the sea. Then, arge number of huge sea serpents also emerged from the water, breaking through the surface.


    Boom, boom, boom, boom~


    These were not sea serpents; they were flood dragons. Each of them had dragon whiskers, scales, and ws, but no dragon horns. They all showed their heads, staring at the golden dragon together.


    The most astonishing thing, however, was not the flood dragons. What truly surprised Zhongshan was the figure standing on top of the golden dragon''s head. Atop the head, the size of a table, stood a girl wearing a green dress, with two small braids.


    The girl looked about ** years old, with a lively and adorable face. She grabbed the dragon''s horns, her face filled with excitement as she looked down at the sea below.


    "Xiao Jin, hurry up, hurry~~" The girl shouted excitedly.


    Then, as if understanding the girl''s words, the golden dragon quickly swam away on the surface of the sea, with nearly a hundred flood dragons escorting it, protecting it by its side.


    "Hurry, hurry, don''t let that old man catch up." The girl shouted innocently, her eyes squinting into crescents, extremely cute.


    "Roar~" The young golden dragon roared excitedly with its immature voice.


    Boom~


    Another figure shot out of the sea.


    An elderly man, dressed in colorful robes, emerged from the sea. His hair was slightly gray, with no wrinkles on his face, making him appear extraordinarily radiant. However, his eyes seemed to be shaded with deep eyeshadow, giving him a somewhat sinister look.


    "Good disciple! Stop running, and quickly ept me as your master!" the old man shouted, chasing after them in the distance.


    "No! No, you smell bad all over, I don''t want the smell! Xiao Jin, hurry up, the old man is chasing us!" the little girl standing on the golden dragon''s head shouted.


    "Roar~" The young golden dragon swung its tail and elerated once again, with numerous flood dragons closely following, as if Xiao Jin could y however he liked as long as he didn''t get hurt.


    "Oh my, that''s the smell of medicinal herbs. It''s already gone now, so don''t run away, ept me as your master," the old man yelled anxiously as he chased after them.


    "No! No! If you keep chasing us, we''ll go back to the Dragon Pce." The little girl shouted.


    The dragons had already gone far away, and their voices grew fainter and fainter.


    "Young master! Don''t run..." The old man let out an incredibly sorrowful cry, gradually disappearing from Zhongshan''s sight along with the dragons.


    The onlookers wore strange expressions, initially thinking it was an ambush, but they didn''t expect such a spectacle to unfold.


    "Emperor Xidu, is that Emperor Xidu?" a male elder suddenly eximed, pointing to the distant figure that had already disappeared.


    "Yes, it''s Emperor Xidu. How is it him? What is he doing here?" another elder eximed in astonishment.


    The two elders exchanged nces, both showing expressions of disbelief. Emperor Xidu? How could it be Emperor Xidu? Would he ask someone to ept him as their master? Who exactly was the little girl, and why did she attract Emperor Xidu like that?


    After their shock, the two elders turned their gaze to Elder Zixun.


    "Yes, it''s Emperor Xidu. Let''s go, continue on our way," Elder Zixun said coldly.


    "Yes," the two elders nodded.


    Meanwhile, Zhongshan took a deep breath. Could a family other than hers summon dragons to serve them?---


    Another half month passed.


    The white cloud finally crossed the sea and arrived at the so-called Divine Land.


    Standing on the white cloud, Zhongshan felt arge amount of spiritual energy rushing towards him. Spiritual energy, abundant spiritual energy. Having reached the Golden Core stage, Zhongshan''s perception of spiritual energy had be increasingly profound.


    The spiritual energy in this ordinary area seemed to be twice as abundant as in the ordinary ces on Tiang Ind. Although it was not as abundant as within the Kaiyang Sect, cultivating here would definitely be much faster than in the Great Jiao Dynasty.


    The Divine Land, with its spirit and talent, had countless powerful individuals.


    Looking around, Zhongshan saw endless mountains and rivers. The height of these mountains made him feel as if he were back in the Wolf Domain, full of dangerous peaks and cliffs. Without the ability to fly, a person could easily be trapped in a valley for a lifetime.


    asionally, some figures could be seen, but the three elders had no intention of stopping and continued to head northwest.


    Five dayster.


    "We''re about to enter the Heartrending Mountain Range," Shui Wuheng said softly.


    "Heartrending Mountain Range?" Nan Batian asked in confusion.


    "Yes, the Heartrending Mountain Range, the border between the Dayu Dynasty and the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. The Dayu Dynasty''s army is often stationed here, so it''s generally quite dangerous. Even flying should be done cautiously. If not flying, one can run along the ground, as the speed of a cultivator running may not necessarily be slower than flying," Shui Wuheng exined in a low voice.


    "The Dayu Dynasty? The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty? Do the two countries often engage in warfare?" Zhongshan asked in puzzlement.


    "Of course, with the two countries bordering each other, isn''t it natural for them to vie for dominance? Topete for territory? The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, as one of the three strongest dynasties in the Divine Land, is definitely coveted by all directions. However, the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty is prosperous enough to maintain its dominance. But wars are almost everywhere, constantly erupting, after all, the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty is too vast." Shui Wuheng exined.


    "Release the arrows~" Suddenly, a loud shout came from afar.


    Suddenly, arge amount of red light shot out.


    Bursting Arrows, they were Bursting Arrows. The moment Zhongshan saw the red light, he recognized it at a nce. The powerful Bursting Arrows, the same ones that nearly killed him and Bei Qingsist time. And this time, there were thousands of them, aimed directly at the people on the white cloud.


    The Bursting Arrows came too quickly, and in an instant, thousands of Bursting Arrows were in front of the white cloud.


    Thousands of Bursting Arrows, this was the power of a Nascent Soul stage cultivator. Without a super magic weapon, even the Nascent Soul stage cultivators would be at the mercy of the arrows.


    Although Zhongshan had absolute confidence in the three elders, he instinctively took out hisrge sword. Although therge sword couldn''t be of much use, or even no use at all, Zhongshan still instinctively took it out. Zhongshan''s character didn''t like to entrust his life and safety to others. No matter how strong others were, or how well they spoke, it wasn''t their safety.


    "Boom~ Boom~ Boom~ Boom~ Boom~" With a sh of light and a series of loud noises, all thousand Bursting Arrows were broken and fell into the valley.


    And then, a male elder suddenly stood in mid-air with a long sword in his hand, his face cold as he stared at the direction where the arrows came from. Cold air emanated from his sword, and sword energy danced around him, as if countless snowkes were falling.


    Countless sword energy scattered in all directions, then suddenly retracted, all entering the body of the male elder.


    In the distance, Zhongshan saw that on a high mountain, there were nearly five thousand men in armor, with a thousand of them aiming their arrows here. At the same time, in the valley further away, Zhongshan also saw arge number of buildings, arge number of troops stationed there, and the soldiers in training exuded a murderous aura. Zhongshan took a deep breath. In the distance, the lowest cultivation level was also in the Foundation Establishment stage, and at least not weaker than the sixth level of the Foundation Establishment stage. Sword energy? de energy? Could these soldiers release sword energy? Were these the ordinary soldiers on the battlefield?


    Zhongshan knew that their group must have unintentionally stumbled upon a military camp, which prompted the guards to release arrows. Moreover, these arrows were all Bursting Arrows, with a thousand of them fired in one volley.


    Zhongshan watched quietly, knowing that he couldn''t intervene now, and could only wait for the three elders to make a decision.


    But from Elder Zixun''s expression, he could tell that they weren''t very nervous.


    The male elder from before stood on the front line, obviously to resolve the current situation.


    In the distance, seeing that the Bursting Arrows did not have the intended effect, the leader of the guards also realized the seriousness of the situation and did not release a second volley of Bursting Arrows. Instead, he quickly informed the valley below.


    Sure enough, in just a moment, a man in armor with arge sword flew up from the valley below.

 Chapter 157 - 157 Iron Blood

    <h4>Chapter 157: Iron Blood</h4>


    The person flying up from the valley was a burly man with a goatee, looking rather rough. However, with one step, he soared into the air, indicating his extraordinary strength. At the very least, he was a Nascent Soul stage cultivator.


    "Who goes there, daring to trespass into our military camp?" the burly man roared as soon as he flew up.


    "General, you misunderstand. We are just passing through," the elder immediately replied.


    "Misunderstanding? Humph, we''ll talk after I beat you," the burly man eximed excitedly, as if he was not here to stop Zhongshan and the others, but rather to find a sparring partner.


    Before the elder with the sword could say anything else, the burly man fiercely shed down with hisrge de.


    Although the burly man and the elder with the sword were fifty zhang apart, therge de he swung down suddenly turned into an eighty-zhang-long giant de qi.


    The sky-blue giant de qi, as it descended, suddenly split into huge waves from the edge of the de qi, splitting into towering waves on both sides.


    For a moment, the area around the de qi was filled with energy resembling ocean waves.


    The immense de qi carried an infinite momentum. Even though they were separated by a great distance, Zhongshan felt a powerful pressure descending upon him, a pressure so immense that it made it difficult to breathe.


    Was this burly man a general? A powerful general?


    From this one sh, Zhongshan could only sense its power, its unparalleled power, its vast power, but he couldn''tprehend just how strong it was. However, from the de qi, Zhongshan could vaguely analyze that this general''s cultivation level was probably in the Unity stage. It was a Unity stage cultivation level, which was a realm stronger than the Nascent Soul stage.


    This was true power. A truly powerful de qi. Generally, forming some sword qi around the de qi was already very powerful. If the sword qi could transform into the shape of animals or beasts, it would be even more powerful. But with this one sh from the burly man, it created surging ocean waves. That entire area waspletely submerged in the turbulent waves, fiercely shing towards the elder with the sword.


    There was no way to avoid it. The elder with the sword immediately faced the burly man head-on with his own sword.


    As the sword thrust forward, it seemed to turn into a shooting star. Even though it was a clear and sunny day with the sun shining brightly, Zhongshan suddenly felt the sky and earth darken, and what rushed towards the ocean-like de qi was a shooting star, a giant shooting star streaking across the sky, directly crashing into the de qi.


    The shooting star collided with the ocean.


    "Boom~~~" A vast and magnificent sound echoed out. Zhongshan only felt the air around him tremble for a moment, then his ears began to ache, and everything around him turned red and blue, chaotic and disorderly.


    "Boom~~ Boom~~ Boom~~ Boom~~ Boom~~~" In the sky, there were increasingly urgent booms.


    In just a moment, Zhongshan could already see clearly around him.


    The original elder with the sword and the burly man had already flown into the sky, engaged in a fierce battle in the distant high altitude. The burly man was afraid of injuring the soldiers, while the elder with the sword was afraid of hurting Zhongshan, Nan Batian, and the others, so they only radiated dazzling red and blue light in the high altitude.


    Zhongshan looked up, only able to hear the bursts of loud noisesing from above. He couldn''t see anything in the blue and red lights above, but he knew that the battle in the sky was extremely intense. The two powerful individuals seemed to be evenly matched, fighting fiercely without giving an inch, constantly shing in the high altitude.


    Elder Zixun and another elder looked up, obviously having much better eyesight than Zhongshan.


    Unable to see what was happening above, Zhongshan immediately looked around, analyzing the current environment.


    n the distance, atop the peaks, the number of archers had not decreased but had increased during this short period. Now, there were at least three thousand archers aiming in their direction, their longbows drawn and their Pogang arrows ready. As long as themanding officer gave the order, the three thousand Pogang arrows would surely rain down upon them.


    Zhongshan and Nan Batian exchanged a nce, then looked at Shui Wuren. All three of them wore expressions of solemnity, because the other two elders werepletely focused on the battle in the sky. If themanding officer ordered the archers to fire at this moment, and the two elders were negligent, wouldn''t they be doomed?


    Fortunately, the archers were well-trained and didn''t shoot without orders.


    As the battle continued in the sky, some of therge tents in the valley slowly opened, and more generals like the previous burly man walked out. These generals all looked up at the sky together.


    For those watching, witnessing the battle between powerful individuals allowed them to continuously hone their own skills and seek breakthroughs. The soldiers in the valley had stopped their training, as if they were all waiting for the battle in the sky to end.


    Zhongshan also waited quietly while analyzing the strength of the army.


    From the actions of the elder with the sword, this army should not be from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. Moreover, as Shui Wuren had mentioned earlier, this was the border between the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty and the Great Yu Emperor Dynasty.


    So, this army should belong to the Great Yu Emperor Dynasty.


    Such a powerful army? Just a random general who walked out, perhaps even if he was a martial fanatic, a martial fanatic general was still at the Unity stage? This was too powerful.


    Just one! Because Zhongshan understood that if it were themander, the generals below would not have this attitude.


    An hour passed, and the two powerful individuals battled in the sky for an hour without stopping, their battle cries sounding like thunder, relentless and unceasing.


    "Boom~~~" The sky once again rang out with a sound three times louder than before.


    After that sound, the red and blue lights in the original location in the sky burst forth in all directions, and at the same time, a figure fell like a shooting star from the sky, straight into a valley where the generals below were located.


    "Boom~~~" A loud noise echoed, and a huge ck pit with a diameter of five meters appeared on the ground. It was clear that one of the two had been knocked into the ground.


    Zhongshan saw that the elder with the sword had a trace of blood at the corner of his mouth and slowly descended from the sky.


    "Hoo~~~ Hoo~~~ Hoo~~~ Hoo~~~ Hoo~~~" Nearly ten generals flew up into the sky, heading straight towards the group on the white cloud.


    The elder with the sword bowed respectfully to Elder Zixun and slowly retreated behind him.


    In an instant, ten generals surrounded Zhongshan and the others, each wielding their own weapons, ring fiercely at the intruders who had suddenly entered their forbidden area. A powerful aura pressed down upon them, reaching the white cloud above, creating an atmosphere as if the swords were drawn and the bows were strung taut.


    The immense pressure overwhelmed Zhongshan slightly, making his face feel a bit congested and slightly flushed from the pressure. Perhaps it was time for Elder Zixun to intervene, or perhaps it was to ease the pressure on Zhongshan. Elder Zixun took two steps forward, and with these two steps, it seemed as if an overwhelming aura swept over, greatly reducing the pressure by Zhongshan''s side.


    One person''s aura overshadowed ten powerful individuals.


    The ten generals all looked at Elder Zixun with solemn expressions, as they could all feel Elder Zixun''s immense strength and dominance. Just the release of his aura alone had suppressed all ten of them.


    "Cough, cough, that was refreshing, truly refreshing!" A heartyughter echoed from the deep pit where the burly man had been thrown. Although severely injured, his tone was more rxed than anything else.


    At the same time, Zhongshan witnessed a peculiar sight below.


    From the central tent, a sturdy man d in red armor slowly emerged. He wore a red cape draped over his shoulders, entuating his mboyance and aura.


    As the man stepped out of the tent, almost all the soldiers who caught sight of him bowed slightly, indicating the high status of this general.


    Even from afar, Zhongshan felt a powerful momentum surging toward him. It was as if the entire army were stars, and the man in the blood-red armor was the sun, the soul of this army.


    "p, p" The burly man crawled out of the deep pit, his face swollen and bruised, whether from battle wounds or from smashing his face into the ground, no one could tell.


    "General, I have embarrassed the First Legion." The burly man crawled out, feeling somewhat ashamed.


    "Rest for a while," the general in blood-red armor said indifferently, clearly not ming the burly man.


    "Yes, General," the burly man responded immediately, quickly climbing out of the pit and sitting down to meditate, closing his eyes to recover.


    The General in blood-red armor, having given his instructions to the burly man, suddenly looked up at the sky.


    His gaze pierced the heavens, causing Zhongshan to feel a sudden tightening in his chest. Powerful, extremely powerful! With just one nce, Zhongshan saw a formidable will, a supetive will.


    "Iron Blood? Commander of the First Legion of the Great Yu Emperor Dynasty, General Iron Blood?" Shui Wuren eximed in astonishment.


    Just as Shui Wuren was astonished, General Iron Blood took a step forward, leaving behind only an afterimage, and suddenly appeared in front of everyone.


    Ten generals swiftly flew behind General Iron Blood, disying an extremely respectful attitude. It was evident that General Iron Blood was immensely powerful, not just in terms of his cultivation, but also in terms of his authority within the army.


    In this legion, General Iron Blood was like a god.


    "Seven Stars Hall, Kaiyang, Zixun," Elder Zixun said immediately.


    Facing a powerful figure, Elder Zixun was able to show enough respect and identify themselves.


    Hearing Elder Zixun''s introduction, General Iron Blood frowned slightly, then scanned the six of them, especially Zhongshan, Nan Batian, and Shui Wuren.


    As his gaze swept over them, Zhongshan suddenly felt as if he had been seen through. Zhongshan disliked this feeling. His brows furrowed slightly, but he didn''t explode. Zhongshan knew what kind of existence General Iron Blood was. Such an existence, even if ced anywhere in the Divine Land, would be an extremely powerful figure.


    "Oh? So, this is the new official rmended by the Kaiyang Sect Elder to the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty?" General Iron Blood suddenly chuckled. His gaze lingered on Zhongshan for a moment, assessing his talents and cultivation. Would someone with such talent and cultivation really be rmended as a fifth-ranked official to the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty?


    Elder Zixun wasn''t surprised that General Iron Blood was aware of the agreement between the Seven Stars Hall and the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. After all, it wasn''t a big secret, and the two major dynasties had been at war for many years. Such information was clear to anyone, especially someone as well-informed as General Iron Blood.

 Chapter 158: Peerless City

    <h4>Chapter 158: Peerless City</h4>


    "We didn''t mean to intrude, we apologize!" Elder Zixun immediately spoke up.


    Staring at Elder Zixun, General Iron Blood nced at him. He wasn''t swayed by Elder Zixun''s beauty; instead, he seemed to be analyzing how to handle the situation.


    "Seven Stars Hall? Elder Zixun, I''ve heard of your name. Since today''s incident was a misunderstanding, you may leave," General Iron Blood said after a moment of contemtion.


    Upon hearing General Iron Blood''s words, Zhongshan frowned. Not only him, but also Shui Wuren, Nan Batian, the other two male elders, and even Elder Zixun frowned suddenly.


    It didn''t make sense! ording to what Shui Wuren had said earlier, the Great Yu Emperor Dynasty and the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty had been at war for many years. It was impossible for them to let people leave so easily.


    Zhongshan was puzzled, but he didn''t dwell on it too much. After all, he didn''t understand the delicate rtionship between the two dynasties yet. He couldn''t judge the overall situation based solely on Shui Wuren''s words.


    As for Shui Wuren, his eyes widened in disbelief. This was unreasonable, incredibly unreasonable.


    "Thank you!" Elder Zixun nodded slightly.


    With a step on the clouds, they returned the way they came, quickly departing from another direction.


    General Iron Blood stood in the air, squinting his eyes as he watched Elder Zixun lead the group away, his brows furrowing.


    "Why did you let them go, General?" a high-ranking officer flew up and asked.


    "The Fangshan Conference is approaching. It''s not advisable to provoke conflicts again," General Iron Blood said, looking into the distance.


    "Yes," the officer immediately responded.


    In the Divine Land, Zhongshan remained silent, refraining from speaking further. The Divine Land was home to hidden dragons and crouching tigers, and he would need to learn a lot in the future.


    After flying for another three days, the white clouds finally stopped, and at this moment, they had arrived at their destination.


    The white clouds slowly descended from the sky, and Zhongshan, at this moment, widened his eyes and looked ahead.


    Ahead was a city, no, a super city. The scale of this city was so vast that even Zhongshan, with his extensive experience and exposure to countless mythological TV shows from his previous life, was awestruck.


    Peerless City!


    This city, when seen with Zhongshan''s current Golden Core-level vision, was sorge that he couldn''t see where the city walls extended to. The city walls were too long, too long indeed.


    The walls, as white as snow and as smooth as ss, seemed to have some kind of formation within them, faintly emitting light. But that wasn''t the main point. The crucial point was the height of the city walls, 1,200 meters high. That was definitely 1,200 meters high, like a barrier between heaven and earth, blocking everything from the outside world.


    Was this a city built by giants? No, even giants wouldn''t be so exaggerated. 1,200 meters��that was equivalent to the height of a four-hundred-story skyscraper. And this was just the city wall?


    Standing below and looking up at the top of the city wall could make one''s hat fall off. Even some mist had begun to cover the skies above.


    It was an imposing wall that seemed to pierce the heavens.


    Zhongshan and his group stood at the southern gate of the city, and on top of the gate were three golden characters, "Peerless City."


    A city of the Heavenly Dynasty, was this just one city of the Heavenly Dynasty? Thinking about his own Great Zhong Dynasty, Zhongshan took a deep breath. The future was indeed a long and arduous journey.


    Beneath the pure white Peerless City, people were constantlying and going. However, all those entering the city were not flying in, butnding on clouds or flying swords, entering through the city gates on foot.


    At the city gates, two grand doors, as white as jade, stood wide open. Each door was a hundred meters wide and five hundred meters tall, guarded by numerous armored sentinels inspecting those entering the city. Most of the entrants cooperated willingly, with only a few, likely dignitaries, bypassing the checks and striding directly through the central passage.


    "We''ve arrived; this is Wushuang City," Shui Wuhen exined to Zhong Shan and Nan Batian.


    Elder Zixun walked proudly on the ground paved with white jade, heading toward the city gate, followed closely by two male elders. Naturally, Zhong Shan, Nan Batian, and Shui Wuhen followed closely behind.


    Zixun walked with a haughty air, ignoring the city guards and stepping confidently toward the interior. The guards, recognizing something unusual about this group, quickly approached as if to stop them. At that moment, one of the elders behind Zixun produced an insignia-like object and disyed it briefly. The two advancing guards immediately bowed respectfully and retreated quickly.


    Zixun led the way, striding through the city gate, which spanned a massive eight hundred meters. Despite its size, the interior was well-lit. After walking through the extensive gatehouse, Zhong Shan finally entered Wushuang City.


    Stepping inside, Zhong Shan felt a surge of spiritual energy, even more abundant than that of the Kaiyang Sect. Cultivating here would undoubtedly be much faster.


    From his vantage point, Zhong Shan saw numerous floating inds scattered across the sky in the distance. Below, the terrain was diverse, with ins, mountains, rivers, andkes. The city epassed all these features. Far off, mystical light curtains in red and blue hues added to the fantastical scenery. There were even luminous orbs of the same colors floating in the sky.


    Seeing Zhong Shan and Nan Batian''s wide-eyed wonder, Shui Wuhen unfurled his paper fan and smiled, exining, "This is Wushuang City. The city has two types of light curtains. The red ones denote restricted areas where no one is allowed to trespass, such as private residences or military and governmental locations. The blue ones indicate public areas where flying is prohibited; one must walk."


    "Got it," Zhong Shan nodded,mitting the information to memory.


    "Other areas permit flying, but you must not exceed the height of the city walls," Shui Wuhen continued.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan asked in confusion, noting that although there were floating inds and luminous orbs in the sky, none of them exceeded the height of the city walls.


    "Heh, that''s because the city has an ''Apocalyptic Sky Thunder Array'' in the high altitudes. Anyone flying too high will be struck by heavenly thunder," Shui Wuhen said with a smile.


    Heavenly thunder? The sky above was shrouded in mist and bathed in sunlight, showing no trace of such danger. Nheless, Zhong Shan chose to believe Shui Wuhen. Looking around, he noticed that while many people were flying within the city, none flew higher than twelve hundred meters.


    "What about those blue light orbs in the sky? Didn''t you say flying isn''t allowed within the blue light curtains?" Nan Batian asked in confusion.


    "Haha, those blue orbs are actually floating inds, shrouded in illusion arrays. Red illusion arrays signify restricted areas, while blue ones are public spaces. There''s no need to fly above the floating inds," Shui Wuhen exined.


    "I see," Nan Batian nodded.


    As Shui Wuhen introduced the city to Zhong Shan, an elder summoned a cloud that appeared beneath their feet, carrying the group swiftly toward a distant red light curtain. Wushuang City was vast; even strong cultivators took nearly half an hour to reach arge red light curtain. This was a restricted area, guarded by numerous soldiers.


    As the group flew closer, more than a dozen guards surrounded them. After the elder showed the token again, the guards bowed respectfully and stepped aside.


    The six of them proceeded directly inside. The light curtain offered no resistance; it merely cast a red glow, obscuring the view from the outside while allowing those inside to see out without any interference. Within the restricted area were several mountains with streams flowing down, creating a picturesque scene. Scattered across the mountains were simple cottages, while in the central valley stood a cluster ofvish buildings.


    The elder led the group on a cloud to the za in front of the buildings. The central hall bore a que with the characters "Nan Tong" inscribed on it.


    As they descended from the cloud, a group emerged from the buildings, led by an official in a voluminous robe, slightly overweight but exuding a vigorous presence. A retinue of officials followed him.


    "Father," Shui Wuhen called out immediately.


    The leading official, recognizing the group at once, brightened upon seeing Shui Wuhen. He quickly turned to the three elders and said respectfully, "Thank you, elders."


    "Nan Chengtong, these three are our chosen candidates. You know what to do," Elder Zixun said suddenly.


    "Yes, Elder. Rest assured, I will handle everything properly since they are chosen by the Kaiyang Sect," the man replied with a smile.


    Zhong Shan scrutinized the man. From Shui Wuhen''s address, it was clear he shared the same surname, Shui. Elder Zixun''s reference to him as Nan Chengtong indicated it was an official title.


    Elder Zixun nodded in acknowledgment. Suddenly, she turned to Zhong Shan, her piercing gaze fixing on him. Since the defeat of Tian Sha, Elder Zixun hadn''t looked directly at Zhong Shan until this moment.


    Under her cold stare, Zhong Shan frowned slightly and said, "Elder Zixun."


    At his address, Zixun''s hand tightened slightly, showing a hint of tension, though her expression remained icy. "You are the one I selected. Take this as proof," she said, handing him a round token. The front bore the characters "Seven Stars," while the back read "Zixun."


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded and epted the token.


    Shui Wuhen and Nan Batian also received tokens in the same manner.


    After distributing the tokens, Elder Zixun looked back at Nan Chengtong and said, "These three are in your care now."


    "Of course, Elder," Nan Chengtong immediately agreed.


    Elder Zixun then turned and flew away on a cloud, followed closely by the other two elders.


    Holding the token and watching the departing Elder Zixun, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. From her cold gaze, Zhong Shan sensed herplex emotions. However, given the circumstances, could any woman face Zhong Shan and remain calm?

 Chapter 159: The Shop

    <h4>Chapter 159: The Shop</h4>


    "Father," Shui Wuhen called to Nan Chengtong again.


    "Congrattions, my lord, and congrattions to the young master," the people behind Nan Chengtong immediately offered their congrattions.


    "Let''s go inside for registration. Once I report to the court, your official positions will be confirmed," Nan Chengtong said with a smile.


    "Much appreciated," Zhong Shan and Nan Batian replied promptly.


    Upon entering the grand hall, they found it filled with bookshelves and numerous desks, clearly an office for many officials. Inside, there was a private office, belonging to Nan Chengtong.


    Nan Chengtong promptly registered Zhong Shan and Nan Batian. As for Shui Wuhen, he had already been registered.


    Finally, Nan Chengtong asked, "Rmended by the Seven Stars Hall, you have one choice to make: military or civil service? Your decision will be recorded and reported to the court."


    "I choose the military," Nan Batian replied immediately.


    "I choose civil service," Zhong Shan said after some thought. Understanding the Heavenly Court''s system would be easier through civil service.


    "Good," Nan Chengtong marked their choices on the documents.


    After securing the documents, Nan Chengtong smiled at Zhong Shan and Nan Batian. "I am Shui Tianya. We are colleagues now. For the time being, let Wuhen show you to your amodations. Once the court issues your appointment letters, you can assume your duties ordingly," he said.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan replied.


    "It''s my duty. Wuhen, take good care of your junior brothers," Shui Tianya instructed.


    "Alright, father," Shui Wuhen nodded.


    "Goodbye," Zhong Shan said.


    Led by Shui Wuhen, they left the valley and proceeded to tour Wushuang City.


    "Senior Brother, what kind of official is Nan Chengtong?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    "Do you mean my father?" Shui Wuhen asked in confusion as they walked.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Wushuang City has one city lord and four district lords for the east, south, west, and north. My father is the South District Lord, a fifth-rank official in the Da Luo Heavenly Court, assisting the city lord," Shui Wuhen exined.


    "Fifth rank?" Zhong Shan said in surprise.


    "Yes, we are just entering the Da Luo Heavenly Court as sixth-rank officials, slightly lower than the fifth rank, but it''s still quite impressive. My father worked his way up to this position over a long time. For us to reach the sixth rank so easily is the fastest way in the Da Luo Heavenly Court," Shui Wuhen said with a smile.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Let''s go. There is amercial district nearby. I''ll show you around," Shui Wuhen suggested with a smile.


    "Good," Nan Batianughed, and Zhong Shan nodded.


    Commercial district? What could it be like in this heavenly court? Zhong Shan, originally a shrewd businessman, was very interested.


    Led by Shui Wuhen, they soon arrived at a massive blue light curtain area in the north. Many people wereing and going, and Zhong Shan even saw some riding fierce beasts such as tigers, leopards, and boars.


    Seeing people riding these beasts, Zhong Shan surmised that they were tamed, simr to the wolf cavalry of the Great Yin Dynasty. Tamed beasts could integrate into human society, and humans could utilize their power for cultivation andbat,plementing each other for faster progress in cultivation.


    With Shui Wuhen leading the way, the three of them stepped into the blue light curtain. Inside, there were no mountains or rivers but a vast square filled with numerous buildings. These buildings were clearly different shops, and along the edges of the blue light curtain were sections divided into many areas, each housing arge beast.


    Some staff-like individuals were feeding these beasts, and soon, someone walked out from within themercial district, mounted a beast, and left. Others came in from outside, paid some spirit stones, and left their beasts there.


    "Beasts are not allowed inside themercial district due to theirrge size, so they usually wait on the outskirts, with designated staff to look after and protect them," Shui Wuhen exined.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The three of them stepped further inside. The streets here were about a hundred meters wide, with each shop separated from the others. Small gs were ced around the shops, which Zhong Shan guessed were for protection, possibly forming small defensive arrays in case of emergencies.


    The first shop they encountered was a pill store, with a serial number "142806" disyed. Clearly, shops here were numbered and taxed by the court, amon practice everywhere.


    Shui Wuhen''s main purpose was to show them around, without any specific agenda, so they wandered casually.


    Inside the shop, it looked much like a mundane store, but each item was protected under an ice crystal ss cover, simr to a ss disy but much sturdier.


    Each ice crystal ss cover contained a single pill, with abel underneath:


    Grade: Third Rank Effect: Aids in breaking through the peak of the innate stage, 90% sess rate. Price: 100 high-grade spirit stones. Buyback: 95 high-grade spirit stones.


    Reading thebel, Zhong Shan smiled wryly. A 90% sess rate? He had consumed hundreds of these without breaking through. The price was meticulous: 100 high-grade spirit stones equaled 1,000 mid-grade spirit stones, which equaled 10,000 low-grade spirit stones.


    Had he wasted millions of low-grade spirit stones on a single breakthrough?


    Moreover, the store not only sold but also bought back pills.


    Apart from the Ascending Pill, there were various other pills, but since Zhong Shan had all of these in his storage bracelet, he wasn''t very interested. However, he did take note of the prices, likely due to his background in business.


    The highest grade of pills in this shop was fifth grade, with nothing higher. It seemed their inventory wasn''t as extensive as his own.


    The shop was divided into two sections, with the other side selling medicinal herbs, alsobeled:


    me Fruit Grade: Fifth Rank Price: 3,500 spirit stones. Buyback: 3,200 spirit stones.


    Nan Batian''s eyes widened in amazement, filled with envy. The shop attendant watched the three respectfully, waiting for their decision, but they turned and left.


    Nan Batian didn''t have the money or spirit stones, Shui Wuhen was merely showing them around, and Zhong Shan didn''t need to spend money here.


    "Senior Brother, the highest grade pills here are only fifth grade," Zhong Shan remarked with a frown.


    "This is just a small shop. Fifth-grade pills are its limit. Anything higher would be a treasured item of the store. To find better ones, we need to go further in. However, sometimes you can find pills in small shops that big shops don''t have," Shui Wuhen exined with a smile.


    Then, they entered the second shop, which was a g store.


    The inside of the shop was filled with various small gs, and it seemed even quieter than the pill shop they had just visited.


    "Wee, wee!" A chubby shopkeeper immediately came forward with a smile.


    Perhaps due to the rarity of customers, the arrival of three people was a chance not to be missed.


    "No need to be so polite, boss. We''re just looking around," Shui Wuhen smiled.


    "That''s no problem. I''m just sitting around anyway. Let me introduce you to some of the items we have here," the chubby shopkeeper said cheerfully.


    "Alright, let''s hear it," Shui Wuhen replied with a smile.


    "This is a g shop. The store is filled with sets of g formations and g-type magical tools, mostly used for defense. Depending on their grade, they can block different levels of enemies and various types of energy. For example, this ming g Formation, although it''s only third grade, can withstand a full-power attack from a fourth-grade fire-type magical tool," the chubby shopkeeper said, pointing to sixteen small gs within an ice crystal ss cover.


    "Aren''t magical tools all made using spirit pearls? They are personal tools and difficult for others to use, right?" Zhong Shan asked immediately.


    "Uh, are you a guest who has juste from a remote immortal sect?" the shopkeeper asked, puzzled.


    "First time out, there are many things I don''t know," Zhong Shan nodded, acknowledging the question.


    "Haha, it seems your immortal sect specializes in alchemy or martial cultivation, not in crafting tools," the shopkeeperughed.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan responded along the lines.


    "Yes, crafting tools is divided into two types: ''human crafting'' and ''furnace crafting.'' Tools crafted by one''s heart, spirit, will, mind, and spirit pearl are called ''human crafting.'' These tools are infused with one''s effort and are refined over time, bing more and more suitable for their owner. They can also be upgraded through continuous refinement by the owner and are something everyone in the Divine Land learns to make. As for the tools we sell here and in most of the shops in thismercial district, they are ''furnace crafted'' tools," the shopkeeper exined.


    "Furnace crafted?" Zhong Shan absorbed the knowledge like a sponge.


    "Yes, indeed. Furnace crafting refers to tool-making experts collecting various materials and using a furnace to fuse them, inscribing the appropriate formations to imbue the tool with different abilities. The materials are one aspect, and inscribing the formations is another. The more formations a tool has, the harder it is to inscribe them because they tend to repel each other. Perfectly merging and stacking these formations is a skill that a master toolmaker must possess. The requirements are no less stringent than those for alchemy," the shopkeeper said.


    "Oh, so what are the differences between furnace crafted tools and human crafted tools?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "Furnace crafted tools have three main advantages: First, you can buy them with money and use high-grade tools without long-term refinement. Second, they can be used in batches, as long as you have enough mana to support them. Third, even if the tool is destroyed, the owner won''t suffer any mental bacsh. There are also three minor disadvantages: First, they cannot be upgraded; whatever grade they are when crafted, they will remain that grade forever. Second, they cannot be mind-linked with the owner; you must use specific techniques to operate them. Third, the highest grade is sixth grade. Of course, there are tools above the sixth grade, but those are no longer considered tools but treasures, as they possess a treasure spirit akin to a human''s soul. However, such items are only found in legends, so it''s best not to think about them," the shopkeeper said with a smile.


    "The best g formations here are only fifth grade," Shui Wuhen remarked after looking around at the various g formations.


    "Hehe, our shop does have a prized possession: a sixth-grade g formation," the shopkeeper said with a smile.

 Chapter 160 - 160 You can鈥檛 afford to offend me

    <h4>Chapter 160: You can��t afford to offend me</h4>


    "Sixth grade?" Shui Wuhen eximed in surprise. In his memory, apart from thergest auction house, the highest-grade magical tools in thismercial district were also sixth grade, and those were in the best shops, not in such a small shop. Could this small shop also have sixth-grade tools?


    While the chubby shopkeeper was exining the basics to Zhong Shan, he was also closely observing the expressions of the three people. Among them, the one holding a paper fan seemed the most casual, as if he had seen all this before. The jade pendant on his waist, a Condensed Spirit Jade, indicated he wasn''t poor. Moreover, the person who appeared to be aplete novice had an extraordinary demeanor and showed no fear at the prices of the magical tools. Plus, they came as a group of three.


    The chubby shopkeeper made a mental note: "Wealthy but inexperienced." Such people were the easiest to swindle.


    Was Zhong Shan easy to swindle? In business, Zhong Shan prided himself on being second to none. His inquiries were just because he saw no need to pretend to know everything. A small loss now was worth it for greater gainster. Of course, making Zhong Shan suffer a loss was not an easy task.


    "Sixth grade? Let me see," Shui Wuhen said, surprised.


    Seeing Shui Wuhen''s direct approach, the shopkeeper squinted his eyes and smiled, "Sure."


    With a flip of his hand, the shopkeeper suddenly had a bundle of small gs.


    "Yo, Shui Wuhen, long time no see," a mocking voice came from outside the shop.


    Hearing this voice, Shui Wuhen frowned, and everyone looked towards the entrance.


    Outside the shop, three figures slowly walked in. Two of them, dressed in ck, looked like bodyguards and stood behind a man wearing borately patterned clothes, who walked in with a strange smile on his face.


    "Young Master Mo," the shopkeeper immediately recognized him. Mo Young Master? He called him ''Shui Wuhen''?


    The shopkeeper quickly realized who the troublemaker was and forced a bitter smile. Originally nning to overcharge a bit, he now dared not even if he had ten times the courage.


    "Young Master Shui, I didn''t recognize you earlier," the shopkeeper quickly apologized.


    Shui Wuhen nodded, not paying much attention.


    "Mo Yanbing?" Shui Wuhen said with disgust.


    "Who is he?" Nan Batian asked, noticing Shui Wuhen''s disgust.


    "The son of the North City Supervisor," Shui Wuhen exined quietly.


    "What good treasure is this, Boss? I''ll take it. Xiaosan, pay for it," Mo Yanbing immediately imed the item the shopkeeper was holding without knowing its details.


    "Mo Yanbing, I saw it first. Today, I have guests. Let''s pick another day topete," Shui Wuhen said immediately.


    Hearing this, Mo Yanbing''s eyes flicked to Zhong Shan and Nan Batian. He thought, "It''s precisely because you have guests that I want to make you lose face."


    "I''m buying my stuff. How is thatpeting? Xiaosan, hurry up and buy it," Mo Yanbing insisted.


    The shopkeeper wore a bitter smile. The North City Supervisor and the South City Supervisor had always been at odds, and their sons were constantly against each other. This had happened many times before, always as aughing stock. But today, it fell on his shoulders. He couldn''t afford to offend either side.


    "Boss, how much for this?" Shui Wuhen asked, clearly not wanting to be outdone by Mo Yanbing.


    "Ten thousand top-grade spirit stones," the shopkeeper replied immediately.


    "What?" Mo Yanbing shouted in surprise.


    "What kind of junk is worth ten thousand superior spirit stones?" Mo Yanbing eximed.


    "A sixth-grade array, the Misty Veil Array," the chubby shopkeeper replied.


    "Sixth grade? Ten thousand?" Mo Yanbing was taken aback, then stared at the shopkeeper in astonishment.


    A sixth-grade array for only ten thousand? That''s ridiculously cheap.


    Shui Wuhen also looked at the shopkeeper in surprise.


    "Actually, this array was sold to me by a customer who was short on money. It''s a family heirloom array, and I didn''t add a single spirit stone to the price. I bought it for ten thousand spirit stones," the shopkeeper exined quickly.


    "Did the guy hit his head on the door? Or were you bewitching him? Ten thousand superior spirit stones, and he sold it to you? Why didn''t he sell it to other shops? A sixth-grade array is worth at least fifty thousand!" Mo Yanbing eximed.


    "He went to other shops, but I offered the highest price, so he sold it to me," the shopkeeper said innocently.


    "Uh? Tell me, what exactly does this array do? It can''t even fend off a Nascent Soul cultivator, can it?" Mo Yanbing questioned.


    "No, it can''t," the shopkeeper replied.


    "Uh? What about a Golden Core cultivator?" Mo Yanbing asked in surprise.


    "It can''t even fend off an Innate Stage cultivator," the shopkeeper admitted.


    "What kind of sixth-grade array is this?" Mo Yanbing asked, perplexed.


    "But once the array is activated, it can make the spiritual sense of outsiders pass right through," the shopkeeper exined.


    "Wait, wait, what do you mean by ''pass right through''?" Mo Yanbing asked.


    "That is to say, if someone uses their spiritual sense to scan arge area, they won''t detect anyone inside the array. The array has a unique function that can confuse spiritual senses, making others overlook the array entirely. It creates a strange energy that fills in the surroundings within the array, specifically targeting spiritual senses," the shopkeeper said.


    "That sounds impressive! Even more than fifty thousand superior spirit stones wouldn''t be enough," Mo Yanbing eximed.


    Shui Wuhen also stared at the shopkeeper, acknowledging that an array capable of confusing spiritual senses was indeed worthy of being called a sixth-grade treasure.


    "But it has a weakness," the shopkeeper said with a bitter smile.


    "Weakness? What weakness?" Mo Yanbing demanded.


    "Please follow me to the backyard, and I will demonstrate," the shopkeeper offered.


    "Let''s go," everyone agreed.


    The shopkeeper called a clerk to watch the store and led the six of them to the backyard.


    The backyard was quite spacious. On a patch of grass, the shopkeeper arranged eighteen small gs in a specific pattern and inserted them into the ground. He then performed a hand seal over the array.


    "Wong~~~~~"


    The eighteen gs trembled lightly, then suddenly emitted a thick, ck mist, quickly enveloping the entire array. A vast area was shrouded in this dark mist.


    "Xiao San, go inside," Mo Yanbingmanded.


    A man in ck immediately stepped inside.


    Through the mist, they could still see the man in ck, but Mo Yanbing and Shui Wuhen looked astonished.


    "Really, the spiritual sense can''t detect him," Mo Yanbing remarked in surprise.


    "Yes, young masters, the spiritual sense cannot detect him. But, the eyes can still see him. While the mist doesn''t affect us cultivators, the array is practically useless for defense. At best, it''s a novelty," the shopkeeper exined.


    "You could add an illusion array outside," Mo Yanbing suggested.


    "Add an illusion array? Wouldn''t a spiritual sense immediately detect it? What use is this array then?" Shui Wuhen scoffed.


    "Do other arrays have the ability to confuse spiritual senses?" Zhong Shan pondered and asked.


    "No, other arrays at best can iste spiritual senses, preventing them from probing inside. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have spent ten thousand superior spirit stones buying it. It''s just that I haven''t been able to sell it for years," the chubby shopkeeper shook his head.


    "In that case, I''ll take this array," Zhong Shan dered immediately.


    The shopkeeper knew this array was rare, which is why he bought it at a high price. But after being rejected by customers for a long time, he had lost confidence in it. Zhong Shan, being a savvy businessman, immediately became interested upon seeing its nature.


    "Rare goods are valuable." Zhong Shan always adhered to the saying, ''If you can buy it with money, it''s a bargain, no matter how much you spend.'' As the shopkeeper had mentioned, only this array had the ability to conceal spiritual senses. Regardless of its ws, it was still invaluable.


    Seemingly useless, it just hadn''t been utilized in crucial situations yet. Once it found its stage, it would be irreceable.


    "Oh, you want it? How about I gift it to you?" Shui Wuhen immediately offered.


    After all, in Shui Wuhen''s eyes, Zhong Shan had juste from Kaiyang Sect, where the economy wasn''t prosperous, and Zhong Shan couldn''t possibly have ten thousand superior spirit stones.


    Hearing Shui Wuhen''s offer, Zhong Shan frowned. Although he knew Shui Wuhen meant well, such kindness should consider the asion.


    Sure enough, a sudden voice came from beside them.


    "Shopkeeper, I''ll take this array," Mo Yanbing grinned. He nced at Shui Wuhen, teasingly.


    Another round of contention began.


    Shui Wuhen frowned and said, "Shopkeeper, I bid eleven thousand spirit stones."


    "I bid twelve thousand," Mo Yanbing smiled.


    "I..." Shui Wuhen was about to speak again.


    Zhong Shan patted Mo Yanbing on the shoulder, stopping Shui Wuhen''s voice.


    The shopkeeper, on the other hand, was sweating profusely, not daring to interrupt. He could only let the two talk and wait to see who would offer the higher price in the end, so he wouldn''t incur the wrath of the other party.


    "I''ll set the price myself when buying something," Zhong Shan smiled faintly.


    Shui Wuhen nodded, realizing his own impulsiveness just now.


    Seeing Shui Wuhen stand behind the man in front of him after he spoke, Mo Yanbing narrowed his eyes. Who is he?


    Zhong Shan smiled slightly at Mo Yanbing and said, "My friend, I have set my eyes on this array, not Shui Wuhen. I hope you understand."


    Zhong Shan was polite first and then firm, even directly addressing Shui Wuhen by his name, clearly attempting to confuse Mo Yanbing about his rtionship with Shui Wuhen.


    "What? I want it. Will the shopkeeper dare not sell it to me?" Mo Yanbing said coldly.


    Seeing Mo Yanbing persist, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and chuckled, "Then let''s see who has more spirit stones!"


    "Hahaha, Shui Wuhen, who is he to you?" Mo Yanbing suddenlyughed loudly. It seemed as though he wanted to probe Zhong Shan''s identity through Shui Wuhen, looking at Zhong Shan with a hint of doubt in his eyes, but his disguise was well-maintained.


    "It doesn''t matter what my rtionship with Shui Wuhen is. What matters is, you can''t afford to offend me," Zhong Shan''s tone was very light, so light that it seemed perfectly natural.

 Chapter 161: Scare People to Death

    <h4>Chapter 161: Scare People to Death</h4>


    "What rtionship I have with Shui Wuhen doesn''t matter. What matters is, you can''t afford to offend me," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, the other six present were all seemingly intimidated by Zhong Shan''s aura. Mo Yanbing''s eyes showed a mix of surprise and uncertainty. Who exactly was this person? Shui Wuhen, on the other hand, was momentarily stunned but quickly cooperated, showing an indifferent expression. As for Nan Batian, he chuckled slightly, appearing confident in Zhong Shan. However, deep down, he found Zhong Shan''s bold statements amusing.


    The chubby shopkeeper, on the other hand, wore a look of astonishment as he nced at Zhong Shan. Could he be someone important after all? But he didn''t even understand the magic tool earlier! However, the shopkeeper naturally didn''t dare to speak out at this moment.


    Zhong Shan looked at Mo Yanbing. His current goal was to overpower Mo Yanbing with his momentum, preventing him from having any desire topete further.


    As for what he said, Zhong Shan was just talking nonsense. How could "You can''t afford to offend me" be possible? But, in order to avoid further entanglements, Zhong Shan could only say that. First of all, Elder Zixun had left him in the southern city, indicating that Kaiyang Sect should be on the same side as the southern city. No matter what official position he held in the future, in the eyes of outsiders, he would be associated with the southern city. Therefore, offending the northern city was just a matter of time.


    Secondly, he was about to be a fifth-rank official of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, so naturally, he wasn''t afraid of Mo Yanbing''s underhanded tactics. If a fifth-rank official of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty were to be casually killed by such a small character, then the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty wouldn''t be able to stand in the Divine Land. By then, Mo Yanbing would definitely be wary of his identity, even though he couldn''t afford to offend him.


    Finally, scaring Mo Yanbing was the most effective method for now.


    Looking at Mo Yanbing, Zhong Shan smiled faintly, then turned to the chubby shopkeeper and said, "Fifteen thousand superior spirit stones."


    Although Mo Yanbing was intimidated by Zhong Shan''s words, he still stubbornly shouted, "Sixteen thousand!"


    "Twenty thousand superior spirit stones," Zhong Shan dered. With one bid, the price increased to twenty thousand.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s bid, Mo Yanbing''s expression tightened. Although he had been generous with his offer, it wasn''t as extravagant as Zhong Shan''s. Could he really be someone important? However, Mo Yanbing''s extravagant temperament still prompted him to shout, "Twenty-one thousand!"


    ncing coldly at Mo Yanbing, Zhong Shan said in a cold voice, "Twenty-five thousand." With each bid, Zhong Shan''s actions dealt a significant blow to Mo Yanbing''s confidence.


    Just as Mo Yanbing was about to continue bidding, one of his subordinates interrupted, "Young Master, we''re running out of spirit stones..."


    They were running out of spirit stones, and Mo Yanbing had been extravagant.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan smiled inwardly.


    "Running out of spirit stones? We still have pills. Go next door and exchange the pills for spirit stones..." Mo Yanbing said angrily. Due to Zhong Shan''s ''identity'', he was feeling increasingly irritable, especially now that they were running out of spirit stones. This only added to Mo Yanbing''s frustration.


    "Whoosh~~~"


    Just as Mo Yanbing was venting his anger at his subordinate, Zhong Shan suddenly made a move. Amidst everyone''s iprehensible gazes, Zhong Shan acted.


    Brandishing the Nightmare Greatsword, he pulled it out, aiming directly at Mo Yanbing. Because they were standing close together, therge de stopped directly above Mo Yanbing''s head.


    It was too sudden. No one had expected Zhong Shan to make a move. Even Shui Wuhen, who was standing beside him, broke out in a cold sweat. What is this disciple of his trying to do? Is he trying to kill Mo Yanbing? Even though he had been in constant conflict with Mo Yanbing, he wouldn''t dare to kill him.


    Is his disciplecking in judgment?


    Nan Batian''s smile faded, and his eyes turned cold as he and Zhong Shan both looked at Mo Yanbing.


    zhongshan''s sword came too fast, catching Mo Yanbing off guard while he was reprimanding his subordinate, so when he wasn''t paying attention, the sword was already above his head.


    Mo Yanbing felt a shiver run down his spine as he stared incredulously at therge de hovering over his head, his heart filled with horror.


    Mo Yanbing''s two subordinates quickly drew their longswords, ring angrily at Zhong Shan, but also afraid to act rashly.


    As for the chubby shopkeeper, his mouth fell open, a strand of saliva connecting his upper and lower lips, his expression one of bewilderment. What kind of person was this? He was just fine a moment ago, why draw a sword now?


    Seeing the people he had just subdued, as well as the terrified Mo Yanbing, Zhong Shan smirked coldly. "My patience has its limits. Do you believe I could kill you right now, and no one would dare to intervene?"


    Zhong Shan was blowing his own trumpet. Since he had already taken action, he might as well scare the wits out of them.


    Mo Yanbing looked at the looming sword before him. Although he could jump away at any moment, fear crept into his heart. In Mo Yanbing''s mind, Zhong Shan''s ''identity'' was already confirmed��a powerful figure who couldn''t be offended, and one who didn''t hesitate to kill.


    ''Sensing'' Mo Yanbing''s fear, Zhong Shan slowly sheathed his sword, his eyes narrowing, a look that warned against provocation.


    Seeing Zhong Shan retract his sword, Mo Yanbing''s momentum plummeted. Taking a deep breath, he stared at Zhong Shan, a hint of fear and ruthlessness in his eyes.


    With a menacing re, Mo Yanbing nodded and stepped back, clearly embarrassed and unwilling to stay any longer.


    His two subordinates followed closely behind Mo Yanbing, casting terrified nces at Zhong Shan as they retreated.


    Watching Mo Yanbing leave the courtyard, Zhong Shan finally sheathed his sword.


    It wasn''t that Zhong Shan was being ostentatious, but rather, he intentionally wanted to make a scene. Because Zhong Shan could quickly assess his situation, to Mo Yanbing, after holding the position of fifth-rank official for so long, he was at most just a clown who couldn''t stir up much trouble. Moreover, Zhong Shan was confident about obtaining the "Veil Mist Conceals Divine Array".


    Starting with verbal pressure on Mo Yanbing, instilling a sense of fear in him, and then resorting to physical intimidation��even though this intimidation had no lethal force��it still overwhelmed his persistence, thoroughly crushing his momentum. As Zhong Shan expected, even at this point, wisdom remained the most important.


    Shui Wuhen knew some of Zhong Shan''s background, at least the surface details, but even with just a few moves, he managed to scare off Mo Yanbing, the tyrant of Wushuang City? Widening his eyes, Shui Wuhen swallowed nervously. When Zhong Shan was first possessed by the Heavenly ughter Qi, Shui Wuhen already felt that Zhong Shan was not simple. However, over time, Shui Wuhen had overlooked Zhong Shan somewhat. But the scene just now still shocked Shui Wuhen too much.


    Zhong Shan''s actions were unpredictable. If he didn''t make a move, it was fine, but once he did, he always achieved unexpected results. However, it wasn''t convenient to ask more questions now. There was still the chubby shopkeeper to deal with before anything else.


    As for Nan Batian, he looked at Zhong Shan in amazement, feeling satisfied to see Zhong Shan scare away Mo Yanbing.


    "Shopkeeper, here''s a ''Natal Pill''. I saw it in the pill shop just now. The buyback price happens to be twenty-five thousand superior spirit stones. Please give me the Veil Mist Conceals Divine Array," Zhong Shan said, taking out a small porcin bottle.


    Even without someone telling him, Zhong Shan could figure out that pills could also be used as currency in thismercial district.


    "No need, no need. I said ten thousand stones before, ten thousand is enough," the chubby shopkeeper hurriedly said. Obviously, he didn''t dare to make extra money from the person in front of him.


    "No, I, Zhong Shan, always keep my word. When I say twenty-five thousand, it''s twenty-five thousand. Don''t say more," Zhong Shan said earnestly.


    "Okay," the chubby shopkeeper said somewhat intimidated.


    The shopkeeper then handed over the array to Zhong Shan and passed him a memory crystal containing detailed instructions on how to use the "Veil Mist Conceals Divine Array".


    Zhong Shan nodded after reading it and put it away. Although the shopkeeper asked for ten thousand, Zhong Shan insisted on giving him twenty-five thousand. Zhong Shan wasn''t foolish; he knew that today''s events would have follow-up stories, and when that time came, the shopkeeper would face it alone. The twenty-five thousand was not only a promise but also Zhong Shan''s principle in business��


    Outside the shop, Mo Yanbing walked ahead, his face flushed with anger, and no one dared to speak behind him.


    "San''er," Mo Yanbing called out.


    "Yes, young master," a servant promptly replied.


    "Find out who that person is and why he''s with Shui Wuhen," Mo Yanbing said in a deep voice.


    "Young master, do you want me to...?" The servant gestured to his neck, then quickly asked.


    "First, find out his background," Mo Yanbing narrowed his eyes.


    Although Mo Yanbing was a yboy, his vision wasn''t as short-sighted as his servants''. Some people couldn''t be offended.


    "Yes," the servant promptly replied��


    Exiting the array shop.


    "Zhong Shan, you really dared just now. You scared that guy to death. Hahaha," Nan Batianughed heartily.


    "Yeah, Mo Yanbing is a little tyrant in Wushuang City. I didn''t expect you to scare him off too," Shui Wuhen eximed in surprise.


    "Hehe, it was just luck. I was just bluffing, but he really got scared. Maybe he''s naturally timid," Zhong Shan shook his head with a smile.


    However, only Nan Batian believed this statement. Shui Wuhen didn''t believe it at all. He knew Mo Yanbing better than anyone else. Mo Yanbing was definitely a ruthless character. But today''s events were too sudden, and it reminded Shui Wuhen of his father''s instructions��to befriend such people more. Therefore, he didn''t dwell on this matter any longer.


    As for the Natal Pill, neither of them asked about it. There was no need to.


    "By the way, do you think Mo Yanbing will figure it out ande back to cause trouble for us?" Nan Batian frowned.


    "Nonsense, at least he won''t dare for now. He still needs to investigate our background. Moreover, we''re fifth-rank officials of the Great Luo Dynasty. Should we be afraid of him? Let''s go, let''s continue shopping," Zhong Shan reassured with a smile.


    "Okay," Nan Batian nodded, thinking it over.

 Chapter 162: Fushan Summit

    <h4>Chapter 162: Fushan Summit</h4>


    In the city of Wushuang, there was a crimson-colored aerial restricted area.


    Inside it, three floating inds were interconnected. On one of these inds, there was a house at the foot of a mountain, with clear springs nearby and two very elegant buildings next to it.


    Zhongshan sat cross-legged inside, continuously adjusting his breath and practicing.


    A few days ago, he had strolled through themercial district and seen various treasures, which had broadened his horizons. However, Zhongshan had refrained from exchanging more pills for treasures. Having too many pills would not befit his status and position. At least in the eyes of others, he should not have any extra pills.


    This was the home of Shui Wuhuan, situated on one of the floating inds. The environment was elegant, and the spiritual energy was abundant, making it one of the luxurious residences in Wushuang City.


    From there, one could overlook the scenery of Wushuang City. Wushuang City was vast, muchrger than Kaiyang Sect. This Wushuang City alone was at least asrge as arge mountain range, truly a super city.


    Although the appointment letter had not yet arrived, Zhongshan was not in a hurry, but patiently waiting.


    Nan Batian lived in another room.


    "Zhongshan, Batian," came the voice of Shui Wuhuan from outside.


    Zhongshan finished his cultivation and walked out slowly.


    "Has the appointment letter arrived?" Nan Batian asked as soon as he stepped out.


    "Not yet, but there is good news," Shui Wuhuan said with a smile.


    At this point, Zhongshan also approached.


    "Good news?" Zhongshan asked with some confusion.


    "Yes, there might be a ceasefire between the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty and the Great Yu Imperial Dynasty. At least there won''t be any fighting in the short term," Shui Wuhuan said.


    "Oh, how do you know?" Zhongshan felt curious.


    "My father said so. Tomorrow morning, there will be a summit on Fushan outside Wushuang City. Almost all the officials of Wushuang City will attend, and my father will also go. Will you go?" Shui Wuhuan said.


    "A summit between the two dynasties? Can we go?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "It''s okay. We''ll be in the main tent at the foot of the mountain. As long as we don''t cause trouble, it should be fine," Shui Wuhuan said.


    "Of course we''ll go," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Alright, I''ll let you know when the timees," Shui Wuhuan said.


    Inside Wushuang City.


    On another huge floating ind.


    The ind was decorated very beautifully, with several magnificent halls and some side halls. Arge number of servants were busy, and in the central hall.


    Shui Wuhuan''s father, Nan Chengtong, was respectfully standing below, bowing slightly to the person sitting on the throne above.


    Sitting on the throne was a woman named Qian You, dressed in a ck silk robe. Her long legs were particrly eye-catching. There was a glimmer of wisdom in her eyes, revealing the arrogance of a superior.


    If Zhongshan were present, he would definitely recognize her at a nce. She was Qian You, the princess who had appeared during thepetition for the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation inheritance. Behind Qian You stood two guards.


    Nan Chengtong respectfully bowed to Qian You.


    "Shui Chengtong, how is the reaction in Wushuang City?" Princess Qian You asked.


    "Princess, the results so far are not very satisfactory, but I will do my best," Shui Tianya frowned and sighed.


    "Hmm, this time Prince Daxuan has appointed his son, Gulun, to handle operations over there. Gulun is not capable, but Mister Shuijing is a genius. With Mister Shuijing there, our difficulty has increased. When you assign tasks to your people, make sure they pay attention to their operations and gather every piece of information about Mister Shuijing''s instructions," Princess Qian You said, after some thought.


    "Yes," Shui Tianya responded immediately.


    "Well, let''s set this aside for now. Tomorrow is the ''Fushan Summit'', and we cannot afford to make mistakes. You should also prepare to attend," Princess Qian You said.


    "Yes," Shui Tianya replied respectfully. Then he slowly exited the main hall.


    Sitting in the hall, Princess Qian You furrowed her brows slightly, tapping the armrest lightly as she pondered, "Adai."


    "Here," Adai immediately stepped forward.


    "Summon those ten advisers. It''s been a few days. Let''s see what ideas they''vee up with," Princess Qian You said, frowning.


    "Yes," Adai responded promptly before quickly leaving the hall.


    In another pce within Wushuang City.


    Gulin, who had always been by Princess Qian You''s side during the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, sat on a throne, apanied by Shuijing, who held a feather fan and appeared to be devising strategies.


    Both of them looked down at another man who was bowing.


    The man wore a white robe and appeared to be around fifty years old, looking veryposed.


    "Mo Baili, how is the reaction in Wushuang City?" Gulin asked.


    "Your Highness, rest assured, there weren''t many problems to begin with. With Mister''s guidance, the situation is now very favorable. We''re just waiting for the Fushan Summit topletely defeat Nan Chengtong and Shui Tianya," Mo Baili said respectfully.


    "That''s good. My father entrusted this matter to me, so I can''t afford to mess it up," Gulin smiled.


    "Yes, Your Highness, this was already a very secure situation," Mo Baili smiled.


    "No, we must also pay attention to Princess Qian You," Shuijing said, shaking the feather fan.


    "Yes, and Princess Qian You is very clever. We mustn''t let our guard down, or else she might disrupt our winning situation. Then I won''t be able to raise my head in front of her in the future. So you are only allowed to win, not to lose," Gulin immediately stood up and said.


    ncing unexpectedly at Gulin, Mo Baili said, "Your Highness, rest assured, the situation is basically in our favor now. Even if Princess Qian You is exceptionally wise, we still have Mister Shuijing. We are bound to win."


    "Well, that''s good. You go and prepare for tomorrow''s ''Fushan Summit'' first. We''ll talk about other matters after the summit," Gulin said, after some thought.


    "Yes," Mo Baili slowly exited the main hall.


    After Mo Baili left, Gulin immediately looked at Shuijing and said, "Shuijing, my father said that to impress Princess Qian You, we must win this time. You must not make any mistakes, only victory is allowed!"


    "Your Highness, rest assured, Shuijing will do his best," Shuijing said, shaking the feather fan.


    On another floating ind within Wushuang City.


    Mo Yanbing burst into a hall.


    "Where''s my father?" Mo Yanbing asked a servant.


    "Master has gone out for something," the servant replied.


    "Tomorrow is the Fushan Summit, and my father went out at this time? Where did he go?" Mo Yanbing frowned.


    "I don''t know," the servant said immediately.


    "Young Master, Young Master," at this moment, another person ran in from outside, who was the subordinate who had followed Mo Yanbingst time.


    "Have you found out about the person?" Mo Yanbing frowned.


    "Yes, young master, those two individuals should both be from Kaiyang Sect, and they are both disciples of Shui Wuran," Xiao San said.


    "Oh? Can we trust this?" Mo Yanbing said skeptically.


    "Yes, it''s reliable. It was personally told to me by a servant from Shui Tianya''s household. They said those two always address Shui Wuran as their senior brother," Xiao San exined.


    Hearing Xiao San''s words, Mo Yanbing''s eyes gleamed with determination. "Alright, so they''re just Shui Wuran''s junior brothers. Then what about those Kaiyang Sect disciples from the Mo Lund, the Jindan stage? Hmph, no one dares to make a fool out of me and get away with it."


    The next day at dawn.


    800 miles south of Wushuang City, the surroundings were t and vast, with only a white jade mountain at the center.


    The white jade mountain appeared to be meticulously crafted, about 300 meters high, square in shape, with white jade staircases on all four sides for people to ascend. This was Fushan.


    The open space below was guarded by arge number of soldiers, divided into two camps, each with up to a hundred thousand troops.


    Two hundred thousand soldiers stood on both sides, quietly awaiting.


    Each side had severalrge tents for important figures to rest in and await the start of the summit.


    Zhongshan, Nan Batian, and Shui Wuran stood in one of the tents, quietly observing the highly disciplined troops from both dynasties outside.


    Zhongshan patiently observed, as he noticed that even though there were two hundred thousand troops at the foot of Fushan, there was not a single sound, only the sound of the wind blowing, as they all awaited the start of the summit.


    There was still half an hour left before the summit.


    At this moment, a figure suddenly emerged from one of the tents on the opposite side.


    Upon seeing the person, Zhongshan''s pupils contracted. It was the Ironblood General, Ironblood, themander of the First Legion of the Great Yu Dynasty, whom he had encountered not long ago.


    As Ironblood stepped out, arge number of generals from the Great Yu Dynasty followed out of the tent, along with some civil officials. All followed Ironblood, no one dared to take a step beyond.


    In the opposing camp, Ironblood held the highest position and authority.


    Nearly forty leaders walked out of the tent on the opposite side, and from Zhongshan''s camp, some prominent figures also immediately stepped out.


    Seeing the person walking out of the nearby tent, Zhongshan unconsciously clenched his fists, a look of surprise shing in his eyes.


    Because Zhongshan saw a group of familiar faces, faces he had encountered nine years ago.


    Princess Qian You, Mister Shuijing, Gulun? Princess Qian You? What a coincidence? And over there, Shui Tianya and other civil and military officials were standing respectfully behind Princess Qian You.


    She''s the princess of the Great Luo Dynasty? As he thought about it, Zhongshan''s brows furrowed into a character ''��'', sighing deeply, revealing a bitter smile. It seems that being a fifth-rank official of the Great Luo Dynasty is not as easy as he thought. At least in the future, it will be extremely exciting because of this group of ''acquaintances''.

 Chapter 163: Yi Yan

    <h4>Chapter 163: Yi Yan</h4>


    Underneath Fang Mountain, the leaders of both factions walked forth, each apanied by around forty followers, stopping at a distance from each other.


    "General Ironblood, could it be that you will be leading the talks this time?" Princess Qianyou smiled, holding a folding fan in her hand.


    General Ironblood''s expression was solemn as he nced at the people opposite him, speaking in a deep voice, "The talks at Fang Mountain concern matters of both dynasties. How could I take the lead? We shallmence once the Grand Commander of our dynasty arrives."


    "Oh?" Princess Qianyou''s expression turned serious, and behind her, herpanions mirrored her demeanor.


    "I didn''t expect the Grand Commander of the Great Yu Empire toe forward. I''ve admired him for a long time," Princess Qianyou said earnestly, with a tone of genuine respect.


    Not only Princess Qianyou, but everyone behind her showed expressions of respect.


    In the nearby tent, Zhongshan furrowed his brows.


    The Grand Commander of the Great Yu Empire? Who is this person? Respect, yes, it''s respect that even makes enemies feel it? This Grand Commander must possess considerable personal charm.


    Zhongshan was well aware of General Ironblood''s strength. Even the formidable individuals of the previous alliance were his subordinates, and each one of them held him in utmost respect. When facing General Ironblood, Princess Qianyou seemed calm andposed, but upon hearing the Grand Commander''s name, her expression turned solemn.


    The Grand Commander of the Great Yu Empire?


    "Is the Grand Commander of the Great Yu Empire powerful?" Nan Batian whispered to Shui Wuhen.


    Zhongshan also listened intently, obviously curious about this Grand Commander.


    "The Grand Commander of the Great Yu Empire is not strong in terms of cultivation, but he''s formidable," Shui Wuhen exined.


    "Huh?" Nan Batian looked puzzled. Not strong? But formidable? What does that mean?


    "The Grand Commander of the Great Yu Empire, named Yi Yan, is only in the Yuan Infant stage in terms of cultivation. However, his position in the Great Yu Empire is irreceable. Even within the ranks of the Great Yu Empire''s army, his prestige surpasses that of the imperial capital itself," Shui Wuhen borated.


    "Are you saying that Yi Yan is only in the Yuan Infant stage?" Nan Batian wore an incredulous expression.


    "Yes, he''s here!" Shui Wuhen pointed to the distance.


    Indeed, everyone beneath Fang Mountain fell silent, gazing at a growing ck dot in the sky.


    On the side of Princess Qianyou''s Da Luo Tian Dynasty, everyone waited quietly, their eyes showing reverence. In the opposing army, nearly everyone disyed admiration, including Ironblood General, themander of the Great Yu Empire''s First Legion, who was visibly excited.


    As the ck dot drew nearer, Zhongshan finally made out the flying object.


    It was arge sedan chair, resembling a house, carried by sixteen sedan bearers, each shouldering a massive beam, stepping on white clouds as they carefully lifted the sedan chair. These sixteen bearers were all at the Yuan Infant stage, formidable figures equivalent to sect masters on Tian Lang Ind. Yet here, they were merely sedan bearers?


    Of course, Zhongshan understood that only Yi Yan wouldmand such powerful individuals to serve as sedan bearers.


    As the sedan bearers flew, they not only stabilized the sedan chair but also cast spells, enveloping it in a protective barrier, shielding it from gusts of wind and maintaining its stability.


    This Yi Yan, he''s quite extravagant!


    Slowly, the sedan chairnded beneath Fang Mountain before the crowd.


    With the sedan chair settled, the sixteen Yuan Infant stage sedan bearers swiftly stood by the sedan doors, in a posture of respectful wee.


    Seeing the sedan chairnd, Princess Qianyou and her entourage remained still, representing the Da Luo Tian Dynasty.


    General Ironblood quickly ran towards the sedan chair. Upon reaching it, he didn''t lift the curtains but stood silently in front of it, waiting for the upant inside to open them.


    From afar, Zhongshan observed the extravagant sedan chair, even the top adorned with huge night pearls. Zhongshan had seen these pearls in the market of Wu Shuang City days ago; even the smallest one was worth twenty thousand top-grade spirit stones.


    The sedan door was raised half a person''s height from the ground.


    "Grand Commander!" General Ironblood whispered.


    "CoughCoughCoughCoughCoughCoughCoughCoughCoughCoughCoughCough"


    From inside the sedan, came a series of intense coughs, heavy as if from someone gued for years, on the brink of death.


    The entire army stood silently, all waiting for the upant''s coughs to subside. At this moment, no oneined; they all waited patiently, disying no resentment. Among General Ironblood''s group, worry was evident on every face, yet none of the people from the Da Luo Tian Dynasty showed any hint of mockery.


    What level of prestige couldmand such respect from the entire army?


    Finally, after nearly half a stick of incense worth of coughing, the interior quietened down.


    Gently, a maid-like woman lifted the sedan curtain, allowing the door to open wide, and then from inside, she slowly assisted a frail old man.


    The old man''s face was extremely haggard, but his eyes gleamed with a wise light. Assisted by the maid, he slowly approached the sedan door.


    Seeing the old man before him, Zhongshan revealed a hint of shock. Was Yi Yan only in the Yuan Infant stage? How could he be this weak? Near death''s door? He seemed older and weaker than Zhongshan himself.


    Yi Yan reached the edge of the sedan door, but with it half a person''s height above the ground, it was difficult for him to descend steadily without a stool.


    At this moment, General Ironblood, who was standing nearby, suddenly approached and knelt down horizontally, his head touching the ground, offering his back as a step for Yi Yan.


    Witnessing this scene, Zhongshan was shaken. General Ironblood, themander of the Great Yu Empire''s First Legion, actually chose to be a step for Yi Yan? No, it was willingly done, for if General Ironblood had any reluctance, someone else could have offered. Yet, he knelt without any hesitation, willingly allowing the elderly and frail Yi Yan to step down on his back.


    Yi Yan swayed as he stepped down on General Ironblood''s back. The maid dared not step on General Ironblood, but her ability to assist Yi Yan indicated that she was also at least at the Yuan Infant stage.


    Once Yi Yan stepped off the sedan, a gentle breeze blew, causing his thin figure to waver as if he could fall at any moment. The maid held him tightly.


    Gently, Yi Yan brushed off the maid''s hand and stood alone in the wind, gazing around at all four sides.


    Seeing Yi Yan refusing assistance, the maid could only respectfully stand behind him.


    General Ironblood quickly stood up, paying no attention to the dust on his knees as if he hadn''t noticed it at all, and promptly bowed to Yi Yan, "Greetings, Grand Commander."


    "All hail the Grand Commander," all the soldiers of the Great Yu Empire bowed respectfully, each genuinely and without hesitation.


    Yi Yan merely nodded slightly and slowly made his way towards Princess Qianyou and herpanions at the foot of Fang Mountain.


    "Greetings, Mr. Yi Yan," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Hmm, Princess Qianyou, I''ve heard of your esteemed reputation," Yi Yan replied with a faint smile.


    "I dare not, Mr. Yi Yan. Your presence at the Fang Mountain talks today is truly an honor for me," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Princess Qianyou is too polite. Please," Yi Yan said gently, gesturing for her to proceed.


    "Please," Princess Qianyou also gestured in return.


    Subsequently, Princess Qianyou and Yi Yan walked at the forefront, with their respective leaders following respectfully behind.


    Yi Yan''s pace was slow and arduous, as if climbing Fang Mountain required all his strength. However, he insisted on walking without assistance. Everyone behind him waited respectfully, showing no impatience. Because he was Yi Yan.


    Despite the three hundred meters of Fang Mountain taking half an incense stick''s worth of time to climb, no one showed impatience.


    On top of Fang Mountain, Zhongshan couldn''t see the figures of the people below, but his mind was in turmoil.


    Yi Yan? What kind of person is he?


    Beside him, Nan Batian also stared wide-eyed, full of disbelief. How could such a person exist? This was too exaggerated!


    In another tent not far away, within another tent.


    Three people stood in the tent, one kneeling on the ground. The one kneeling was Mo Yanbing''s subordinate Xiaosan, and among the three standing, one was Mo Yanbing himself.


    Mo Yanbing looked at Xiaosan with a hint of satisfaction.


    "Young Master, that Zhongshan is in the tent to the left. I saw it with my own eyes," Xiaosan said respectfully.


    "Good, since he''se to us, keep an eye on him. After the Fang Mountain talks, I''ll deal with him," Mo Yanbing said solemnly.


    "Young Master, what about Shui Wuhen? He might intervene," Xiaosan said with a trace of concern.


    "This, I''ll have to trouble you two," Mo Yanbing looked at the two people beside him with a smile.


    "Young Master, don''t worry, with the two of us, we can definitely stop Shui Wuhen. He won''t dare to harm us. We''re just curious, how did that Zhongshan offend you?" one of them asked with a hint of confusion.


    ncing at the person, Mo Yanbing frowned slightly, obviously embarrassed to mention the humiliating incident fromst time.


    "Please, let''s not dwell on past matters," Mo Yanbing shook his head.


    Seeing Mo Yanbing''s expression, the two knew not to ask further. They nodded and one of them said, "Young Master, rest assured."

 Chapter 164: Mo Yanbing鈥檚 Counterattack

    <h4>Chapter 164: Mo Yanbing''s Counterattack</h4>


    Standing in the tent, Zhongshan quietly watched Fang Mountain. Perhaps the talks were highly confidential, as there were special measures taken to block any sound from reaching below.


    The soldiers below stood in perfect formation, without any movement, all waiting for the talks above to conclude. Zhongshan didn''t step out of the tent because, at this moment, any disturbance was not permitted.


    It wasn''t until evening that the talks finally ended. At the top of Fang Mountain, General Ironblood gestured.


    The sixteen sedan bearers below swiftly lifted the


    sedan chair and flew up.


    Shortly after, Zhongshan saw the sixteen sedan bearers carrying the sedan chair under the protection of the two generals, flying towards the southwest direction.


    Did Yi Yan leave?


    After Yi Yan left, the leaders from both sides descended from Fang Mountain.


    General Ironblood led the heads of the Great Yu Empire down, and with a wave of his hand, the soldiers of the Great Yu Empire let out a loud cheer and left in an orderly manner.


    The group of civil and military officials from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty also quickly gathered their troops and headed towards Wu Shuang City.


    However, Princess Qianyou and herpanions still hadn''te down.


    On top of Fang Mountain, on a piece of white jade,y a map disying mountains, rivers, and streams. A red line twisted and turned on the map, as if delineating the gains and losses from the previous talks.


    Princess Qianyou, Mr. Shuijing, and the others stared at the map intently.


    Even though the generals below had withdrawn their troops, Princess Qianyou still frowned.


    "Congrattions, Your Highness," Mr. Shuijing smiled.


    "Congrattions, Your Highness," others congratted one after another.


    "What''s there to congratte? It''s far from what we imagined. This Yi Yan is indeed the ace up the sleeve of the Great Yu Empire. With him, the Great Yu Empire can stand against a million troops," Princess Qianyou sighed deeply.


    "At least our goal for this time has been achieved. With the agreement signed, there will be no war between the two dynasties for at least a hundred years," Gu Lin said immediately.


    ncing at Gu Lin, Princess Qianyou shook her head gently without responding. A hundred years? This wasn''t about individuals but dynasties. That piece of paper might seem like a guarantee, but in reality, it was just a scrap of paper. Once this region weakened, war would still be inevitable.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou shake her head, Gu Lin frowned, "What? Did I say something wrong?"


    "You''re not wrong. With the agreement reached, our mission ispleted," Princess Qianyou shook her head.


    Mr. Shuijing beside her also shook his head with a smile.


    "Mr. Shuijing, are you satisfied?" Princess Qianyou turned to Mr. Shuijing and asked.


    "Hehe, for me, I''m already satisfied," Mr. Shuijing nodded.


    "Yes, Mr. Shuijing is already satisfied. Next, it''s time for Gu Lin to bully me, a weak woman, alone," Princess Qianyou said.


    "I wouldn''t, Qianyou, I never thought of bullying you," Gu Lin immediately eximed anxiously.


    Hearing Gu Lin''s words, Princess Qianyou smiled faintly, staring at Gu Lin, "Then, can you win the dispute over Wu Shuang City for me this time?"


    Beside her, Shui Tianya apanied Princess Qianyou in looking at Gu Lin, while Mo Baili looked anxious.


    "Well, I can''t decide on that," Gu Lin sighed dejectedly. Obviously, he wanted to agree with Princess Qianyou, but thinking of what his father had said, Gu Lin could only endure it. A hint of guilt appeared on his face.


    "Okay, I understand," Princess Qianyou nodded and stopped looking at Gu Lin, instead focusing her gaze back on the map.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Gu Lin''s eyes shed with impatience. Then, he looked at the others and said, "Let''s go!"


    With a step, Gu Lin soared into the sky on a white cloud, flying towards Wu Shuang City. Mr. Shuijing, Mo Baili, and the other forces allied with Gu Lin followed closely behind.


    Throughout, Princess Qianyou didn''t look at Gu Lin and his group again. Instead, she kept looking at the map in front of her, as if analyzing something.


    Standing behind her were Ada, A''er, and Shui Tianya.


    "Princess," Shui Tianya called.


    "What a clever move by Yi Yan! No wonder he agreed so readily. He left behind a contingency n, a hidden danger. I knew there was something wrong with this map. Sure enough, sure enough," Princess Qianyou suddenly pped the jade table and stood up.


    "Dang, dang, dang~~~"


    Suddenly, sounds of fighting erupted from below the mountain.


    This series of fighting sounds instantly interrupted Princess Qianyou''s thoughts. Slightly furrowing her brows, Princess Qianyou walked to the edge of Fang Mountain and looked towards the direction of the fighting��


    Outside the tents, the army was retreating one after another. Soon, people around Fang Mountain had almost left.


    "Aren''t we going back now?" Nan Batian frowned.


    "This is my father''s camp. No one hase to dismantle it, which means my father is still on Fang Mountain. Let''s wait a bit longer. I have something to ask him," Shui Wuhuan said.


    "Hmm," Zhongshan nodded, not anxious.


    Fewer and fewer people were leaving Fang Mountain. Soon, only the solitary tent remained.


    At this moment, Zhongshan suddenly felt something was amiss. Shui Wuhuan also widened his eyes, realizing that something was wrong.


    "Let''s go," Zhongshan quickly stepped out of the tent.


    Shui Wuhuan rushed out faster than Zhongshan, followed closely by Nan Batian.


    As soon as they came out, Zhongshan saw that his tent, along with the guards outside, had been surrounded by a group of people.


    At the forefront were three gorgeously dressed men, one of whom was Mo Yanbing, whom he had encountered not long ago. Then, about fifty attendants armed with swords and knives surrounded the tent, coldly eyeing it, waiting for Mo Yanbing''s orders.


    "Mo Yanbing!" Shui Wuhuan shouted as he came out of the tent.


    "Haha, Shui Wuhuan, and you, Zhongshan, you tricked me so miserably. No one dares to deceive me, Mo Yanbing, and no one dares to intimidate me without consequences. Now that everyone has left, why haven''t you left yet? You''re really asking for trouble," Mo Yanbing said triumphantly.


    "Mo Yanbing, do you dare to make a move against me?" Shui Wuhuan said coldly.


    "Shui Wuhuan, rest assured, we have a long-standing friendship. I won''t make things difficult for you, as long as you don''t interfere," Mo Yanbing said with a cold smile.


    "Do your servants dare to make a move against me?" Shui Wuhuan said coldly.


    At this moment, a luxurious man beside Mo Yanbing smiled and said, "Brother Shui, we''re in a bind this time. Since Brother Mo has spoken, we have no choice but to help him. As long as you don''t make a move, it''s fine."


    Hearing what the luxurious man said, Shui Wuhuan furrowed his brows.


    "Who are they?" Zhongshan asked.


    "The sons of the West City Tong and East City Tong. They''re birds of a feather with Mo Yanbing," Shui Wuhuan said coldly. Obviously, the other two men had the same status as Shui Wuhuan. As long as they stopped Shui Wuhuan, the servants would make their move.


    Zhongshan smiled faintly, showing no signs of nervousness on his face. At least to others, Zhongshan appeared extremely calm.


    "Mo Yanbing, you really have some nerve," Zhongshan said again.


    "Ha, you want to deceive me a second time? The people from Kaiyang Sect on Tiang Ind, Shui Wuhuan''s junior brother, what else are you pretending to be? Attack!" Mo Yanbing sneered coldly.


    "Nonsense! How dare you attack an official appointed by the court? By imperial decree, the court can exterminate your nine generations!" Zhongshan shouted.


    Sure enough, when Zhongshan''s eyes widened, his momentum was extremely terrifying. With a shout, the fifty attendants hesitated for a moment. No one dared to make a move again, instead they looked towards Mo Yanbing.


    "You, how dare you provoke a court official? Just based on this, I can execute you on the spot." Mo Yanbing immediately retorted.


    With a cold smile, Zhongshan took out a round token and held one side of it towards Mo Yanbing and the others.


    "Open the eyes of your dogs, what do you see on this?" Zhongshan demanded.


    Speaking in such disdainfulnguage was essential for Zhongshan to establish dominance. Only by using the most contemptuousnguage could he quell everyone''s impulse fundamentally.


    "Seven Stars?" The luxurious man beside Mo Yanbing frowned.


    "Seven Stars Hall, Kaiyang Sect? Elderly rmendation from Kaiyang Sect? Fifth-rank official of the Great Luo Empire?" Another luxurious man immediately understood everything.


    As soon as he said that, the attendants became even more hesitant, each of them unsure whether to move forward or not.


    "Mo Yanbing, I haven''t deceived you. The three of us are all fifth-rank officials. If you want to attack officials of the Great Luo Empire,mand them to continue forward. If you don''t have the guts, then leave now." Zhongshan coldlymanded.


    Mo Yanbing was uncertain. Attack a court official? Although Mo Yanbing was a little tyrant of Wu Shuang City, he wouldn''t dare to do such a thing, especially against fifth-rank officials.


    "Young master, they''ve only recently arrived at Wu Shuang City and probably haven''t taken office yet. So they''re not considered officials of the Great Luo Empire yet. As long as they don''t die, they should..." Mo Yanbing''s attendant immediately interjected.


    Upon hearing what the attendant said, Zhongshan''s eyes widened. At the same time, he recognized him as the attendant Mo Yanbing had referred to as ''little three''st time.


    Sure enough, upon hearing what Little Three said, Mo Yanbing''s eyes lit up. A sinister smile appeared at the corner of his mouth.


    "This Lord Zhong, do you have the official seal of the Great Luo Empire?" Mo Yanbing sneered.


    "If not, then you''re in trouble," Mo Yanbing said again.


    "Whoosh~~~"


    Zhongshan took out the broadsword "Nightmare" from his waist. At the same time, Nan Batian also quickly pulled out the "Big Guan Knife", while Shui Wuhuan also took out a green long sword.


    "Attack!" Mo Yanbing ordered.


    Dozens of people rushed towards Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan faced them head-on, also rushing towards them with a cold smile on his lips.


    Zhongshan could see that these people were all in the Golden Core Stage. Just the Golden Core Stage! Zhongshan had no fear because he had his own life-saving method. Moreover, Zhongshan believed in his own identity, which would make these people only dare to hurt him, not dare to kill him. Let''s see who''s more ruthless.

 Chapter 165: Zhongshan鈥檚 Charge

    <h4>Chapter 165: Zhongshan''s Charge</h4>


    Zhongshan dashed forward with his de, while Nan Batian brandished his giant guandao, charging ahead. As for Shui Wuhun, suddenly two men in elegant attire appeared in front of him. They were the sons of Dongcheng Tong and Xicheng Tong, holding a temporary equal status with Shui Wuhun. Thus, with them acting as a distraction, the situation became much more favorable.


    The servants dared not intervene or obstruct, but these two could.


    Meanwhile, the original guards of the tent were intercepted by Mo Yanbing''s servants.


    Zhongshan and Nan Batian faced off against Mo Yanbing and his forty-odd servants.


    Zhongshan was only at the first level of the Golden Core stage, but he had activated the demonic essence, reaching the third level instantly!


    With four times the power, the aura of his de extended to twenty zhang. As for Nan Batian, his strength was not to be underestimated.


    "ng, ng, ng..."


    Zhongshan directly confronted the crowd, and amidst the sh of swords and des, a tremendous force erupted. For a moment, sword qi and de energy crisscrossed, Zhongshan stood at the center of the battle. Although he couldn''t overpower his opponents, he did not fear them either, for he realized that their strength was only around the early to mid stages of the Golden Core realm.


    It was no problem for Zhongshan to take on five opponents alone, but with more people, it became somewhat difficult. Yet, Zhongshan remained undaunted because he knew Shuitianya was on the summit of Fangshan. Once the battle began, Shuitianya would definitely intervene, and the conflict would surely cease. Moreover, even if he couldn''t win, Zhongshan had a life-saving technique, the Red Phoenix Mist, though it was not convenient to use at the moment. For Zhongshan, this was hisst resort. Once unleashed, it would be a matter of life and death.


    "Bati��n, charge at Mo Yanbing," Zhongshan suddenly called out.


    "Alright!" Nan Batian roared as he swung his giant guandao and rushed towards Mo Yanbing alongside Zhongshan.


    Though Mo Yanbing''s servants engaged inbat with Zhongshan, none dared to go all out. Even though they were not yet appointed as imperial officials, if they were to die by their hands, it would surely cause trouble, especially considering Mo Yanbing was a fifth-rank official.


    As Zhongshan continued his onught, his de energy surged, with his giant de striking directly towards Mo Yanbing.


    Though Mo Yanbing was also at the Golden Core stage, his cultivation was not as advanced as Shui Wuhun''s, only around the mid-stage.


    Initially, his servants attacked Zhongshan while he stayed behind.


    However, as the battle unfolded, Zhongshan''s ferocity became evident. Despite being at the first level of the Golden Core stage, each of Zhongshan''s strikes targeted the weak points of his opponents. Coupled with the fourfold power increase, Zhongshan appeared to be at the level of someone in the mid-stage of the Golden Core realm. At this moment, Mo Yanbing''s servants hesitated to fully engage, showing fear and hesitation, which further exaggerated Zhongshan and Nan Batian''s strength.


    Golden Coreter stage? The thought shed through Mo Yanbing''s mind as he hastily retreated.


    "You bunch of idiots, why aren''t you stopping him?" Mo Yanbing shouted as he retreated.


    "Boom..."


    Ten sword energies shed with Zhongshan''s de energy. Upon impact, Zhongshan was pushed back by the immense force, leaving a deep pit in the ground. However, Zhongshan regained his footing and continued to charge forward. Nan Batian also followed suit, fighting with increasing vigor. Although others dared not go all out, both Zhongshan and Nan Batian sustained multiple wounds on their clothes.


    Finally, with thebined efforts of Zhongshan and Nan Batian, they approached Mo Yanbing.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s ferocity, Mo Yanbing regretted not bringing more people.


    Xiaosan had been guarding Mo Yanbing''s side all along, and he too felt a hint of regret in his eyes. If only he hadn''t spoken earlier, wouldn''t it be better for the young master to retreat?


    But it was toote. As Nan Batian used his giant guandao to fend off ten sword energies, Zhongshan seized the opportunity to sh at Mo Yanbing without hesitation.


    "Roar..."


    With a mighty roar, Zhongshan swung hisrge de, trailing a long de energy, fiercely shing towards Mo Yanbing.


    Mo Yanbing''s eyes widened in fear, instinctively sending out a fifteen-zhang sword energy. However, faced with Zhongshan''s overwhelming strike, it was undoubtedly a struggle on the brink of death.


    Seeing Mo Yanbing''s life hanging by a thread, all the servants showed fear and rushed to attack Zhongshan. They knew that if the young master died, they would still be implicated.


    However, at this moment, Zhongshan''s de slightly deviated.


    "Boom..."


    A sky full of blood mist filled the air. After half a day of fierce battle, the first casualty had urred.


    Xiaosan, the one who had put Zhongshan in jeopardy, was struck down by Zhongshan''s de.


    Zhongshan was establishing his dominance. Shuitianya had yet to intervene, leading Zhongshan to specte that Shuitianya had left. Therefore, he had to rely on himself. The battle couldn''t drag on for too long. Initially, these servants might have hesitated to go all out against him due to his identity, but as time passed, in the heat of the moment, they might forget such concerns.


    Simrly, Mo Yanbing couldn''t afford to die either. If he died or was injured, these servants might turn into fanatics, making the situation even more dangerous.


    Hence, they needed to swiftly kill one person to instill fear in the rest.


    Most of these servants had no grudges against him, and they hadn''t even gone all out when attacking him. Therefore, Zhongshan abandoned the idea of killing them. There was one person who deserved death the most, Xiaosan. If not for him, Zhongshan wouldn''t be in such a perilous situation. This was a life-and-death situation that could result in his demise if dragged out.


    The first one to be targeted was Xiaosan. He had to be swiftly dealt with, no dragging things out.


    With Xiaosan dead, silence fell around. The servants stared at Zhongshan, who stood beside the bloodied corpse. Mo Yanbing also retreated in fear.


    Princess Qianyou heard the sounds of battle and walked to the edge of Fangshan, looking down below.


    With just one nce, Princess Qianyou furrowed her brows. Though she didn''t recognize Mo Yanbing and the others, she could tell that dozens of people were besieging two men wielding des at the center. Some others were restrained from assisting.


    Their strengths were not much different.


    Two against forty-five, an inevitably losing situation. However, these two were extremely fierce, one wielding a giant guandao, and the other arge de. Therge de? Why did it feel so familiar?


    Because of the high vantage point, it was difficult to see their faces.


    It wasn''t until Zhongshan dodged a sword energy that Princess Qianyou recognized him.


    She recognized him at a nce. It was him, Zhongshan? Sure enough, it was him.


    Seeing Zhongshan, Princess Qianyou''s lips curled into a slightly surprised smile.


    Nine years ago, Bamen Mountain, that was the first time Princess Qianyou had taken such a big tumble. It had never happened before. At that time, Zhongshan only had the cultivation of the Xiantian stage.


    It had always been a regret for Princess Qianyou, butter, she realized that she had developed a kind of admiration for Zhongshan.


    Anyone who could make her fall was not an ordinary person. However, their contact had been short, and after returning, she had been busy with affairs, with no time to find him. Unexpectedly, he hade to her door on his own.


    Moreover,st time, out of respect for Zhongshan, she hadn''t probed with her divine sense. Now that she did, she found that Zhongshan''s aptitude was surprisingly poor, no, it was too poor. Could such a person even reach the Golden Core stage?


    But the fact was right before her eyes; he had indeed reached it.


    As Princess Qianyou pondered, a hint of eerie smile crept onto her lips.


    "Not good," Shuitianya was about to intervene when Princess Qianyou suddenly spoke up.


    "Don''t move," Princess Qianyou called out abruptly, wanting to observe Zhongshan''s abilities closely.


    "Huh?" Shuitianya frowned but nodded, refraining from interfering.


    "Why would this person appear here?" Princess Qianyou looked down below and asked.


    "He was rmended by the elder of Kaiyang Sect to enter the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty as a fifth-rank official," Shuitianya replied truthfully.


    "Oh? What a coincidence. Has it been confirmed?" Princess Qianyou''s eyes sparkled.


    "Not yet. I just submitted the documents. We''re waiting for the court''s appointment," Shuitianya said.


    "Well, I happen to need a guard. Let''s transfer Zhongshan directly to my side," Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Does the princess know Zhongshan?" Shuitianya asked in astonishment.


    "Heh, sort of. Attach my request. It should be approved easily. Fifth rank means third-tier guard," Princess Qianyou smiled faintly.


    "Understood," Shuitianya nodded.


    Then, everyone continued to watch below. Since Princess Qianyou had decided to employ Zhongshan, she naturally kept a close eye on his safety, just to see where his limitsy.


    Intelligent and powerful. Truly a talented individual. However, two against forty-five, how could they possibly win? Despite using secret techniques to boost his strength fourfold, he was still only at the first level of the Golden Core stage.


    "Boom..."


    With a loud roar, Zhongshan slew an opponent below with a single strike, giving it his all. After that strike, everyone was stunned into silence.


    "Hiss..."


    Princess Qianyou watched in astonishment as Zhongshan paused after killing the man, and the others also stopped. Why didn''t they attack angrily? What method did he use to stop them? This wasn''t just a sparring match; it was a life-and-death struggle. Once blood was spilled, it would escte into a frenzy of ughter.


    Although Princess Qianyou didn''t know that Zhongshan''s arrogant words had instilled fear in these people, it didn''t affect her assessment of him.


    "Intriguing. Shuitianya, you handle this. Bring Zhongshan to my residenceter," Princess Qianyou instructed.


    "Yes," Shuitianya immediately nodded in agreement.

 Chapter 166: Two Questions

    <h4>Chapter 166: Two Questions</h4>


    Ten dayster, at Shui Wuran''s residence, on the floating ind, in the courtyard where Zhongshan and Nan Batian were located. There were stone tables and benches in the courtyard, with two jars ced on the table, and two pieces of red jade resembling bricks, one side embossed with the words "Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty" and the other side with the names and official positions��


    Front: Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty; Back: Zhongshan, Third-tier Guard��Front: Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty; Back: Nan Batian, Commissioned Vanguard Leader��These were the official seals of the two men. Looking at these two brick-like official seals, Zhongshan felt speechless. It turned out that everyone in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty had one of these seals. However, for ordinary people, their names were embossed on the back, followed by the words moner."


    Moreover, these were not ordinary seals but specially made ones, like identification cards, with special magical treasures to identify their authenticity.


    The two men didn''t pay attention to their official seals but each picked up a jar.


    "Bah Tian, your appointment hase. We''re going to be separated again. Let''s have a farewell drink today," Zhongshan said, lifting the jar.


    "Alright, we''re both in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. We''ll meet again in the future. Let''s drink," Nan Batian lifted his jar and clinked it against Zhongshan''s.


    "ng."


    As the wine jars collided, the two men took a sip. This was the Nine Spirits and Ten Thousand Flowers Brew that Zhongshan had bought, a kind of spirit wine. But for Nan Batian''s farewell, even the best wine had to be brought out.


    "I''m going to another city to fight and gain military merits. You, on the other hand, will stay in Wushuang City, a third-tier guard. What future does such a position hold?" Nan Batian chuckled.


    "Haha, how about we make a bet? Let''s see whose position is higher when we meet again next time," Zhongshanughed.


    "Alright, let''s do it," Nan Batian grinned.


    "ng." The wine jars collided again, and the two men took another sip.


    "You were really fiercest time. Killing one person managed to intimidate everyone. I guess even if Lord Shui didn''t show up, Mo Yanbing wouldn''t have dared to make a move," Nan Batian chuckled.


    "The clown, why bother mentioning him? Let''s drink some more," Zhongshan raised his wine again.


    "Alright, no more mentioning him," Nan Batianughed heartily.


    "No matter what the future holds, our brotherhood will never change," Zhongshan said.


    "Agreed," Nan Batian also replied loudly.


    Three dayster, Nan Batian left Wushuang City with a group of soldiers. Meanwhile, Zhongshan and Shui Wuran stayed behind.


    With hisrge de beneath his feet, Zhongshan flew with Shui Wuran in Wushuang City for half an hour before stopping outside a red light curtain in the air.


    "Let''s go. You''ll be serving here from now on," Shui Wuran said.


    "Mm," Zhongshan nodded.


    Passing through the red light curtain, they arrived at a huge floating ind. There were numerous guards stationed around the ind, with many elegant mansions housing rare birds and exotic animals.


    Not far away were several pces.


    Shui Wuran led Zhongshan straight to thergest pce nearby.


    Fragrance Pce!


    Under Fragrance Pce, there were guards stationed, as if a very important person lived inside.


    Zhongshan furrowed his brows and followed closely behind Shui Wuran.


    "Let''s go," Shui Wuran said and stepped into the pce.


    Zhongshan nodded and followed suit, entering the pce.


    Stepping into the hall, Zhongshan immediately took in the interior. At the center of the hall, there was a white jade table with a diameter of about ten meters. It resembled a magical treasure, projecting some light and shadow images. In the projections, there were floating inds, mountains, rivers, city walls, and towers.


    The projection of the Twinless City��that was the Twinless City. This three-dimensional projectionpletely mapped out the entire Twinless City, like a living map.


    However, these were not the key points. The key was that Zhongshan saw two familiar figures.


    In total, there were three people in the hall. Two of them stood on either side, resembling guards. One person had his back to Zhongshan, holding a folding fan and observing the projection of the Twinless City.


    Seeing the two guards, Zhongshan''s pupils contracted. These two were familiar��Ada and A''er.


    And the person standing in the center of the hall was the unmistakable Princess Qianyou.


    Zhongshan couldn''t help but let out a wry smile, taking a deep breath. He had been found by her again.


    "Your servant pays respects to the princess," Shuitianya immediately bowed.


    "Your servant Zhongshan pays respects to the princess," Zhongshan could only bow slightly again.


    Hearing the voices of the two, it seemed to interrupt Princess Qianyou''s thoughts. She stopped looking at the map of Twinless City and slowly turned her head.


    Today, Princess Qianyou was dressed in purple attire, but it was a masculine style. She held a folding fan and appeared incredibly elegant. When she turned her head, she gave off a breathtaking aura.


    "Shuitianya, is this my guard?" Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan with a hint of interest.


    "Yes, princess, this is the third-ss guard Zhongshan," Shuitianya immediately replied.


    "Servant Zhongshan pays respects to the princess," Zhongshan said, seeing that Princess Qianyou was ying dumb, he could only bow again.


    "Daring Zhongshan, in the presence of the princess, you still haven''t knelt?" Ada suddenly eximed.


    Hearing Ada''s words, Zhongshan frowned. However, Princess Qianyou on the opposite side looked at him with interest, clearly indicating that Ada''s words were her instruction.


    Shuitianya bowed slightly to the side, stepping back, leaving Zhongshan alone facing Princess Qianyou.


    In such a situation, others might kneel on both knees, but Zhongshan wouldn''t. He knew that Princess Qianyou was teasing him. Kneeling would mean admitting defeat. After all, Shuitianya hadn''t knelt either, and kneeling would only provoke the disdain of the other party.


    At this moment, instead of being toyed with by Princess Qianyou, it was better to rify things from the beginning.


    "Princess, in the past, I was offensive, please forgive me," Zhongshan said sincerely.


    Seeing Zhongshan, Princess Qianyou smiled slightly. "You finally remember me."


    "Yes, since obtaining the treasure nine years ago, Zhongshan has always felt guilty and sorry for the princess. He hasn''t forgotten in these nine years," Zhongshan said.


    Zhongshan did feel some guilt towards Princess Qianyou, as she had taken care of him back then. However, this guilt wasn''t as exaggerated as Zhongshan made it sound, always thinking about it?


    Looking at Zhongshan remaining calm andposed under her pressure, Princess Qianyou''s eyes revealed a hint of pleasure. In Princess Qianyou''s heart, Zhongshan was like a grassroots, a rootless grass. If he could remain so calm andposed under her pressure, then he must be extraordinary. Princess Qianyou considered herself to be quite perceptive in judging people, so seeing Zhongshan like this naturally made her happier.


    However, Princess Qianyou knew that if she wanted to use someone, she must first subdue them. Making him acknowledge her authority was necessary before he could truly be of use to her.


    "Heh,pensation? How will youpensate? What guarantees can you offer to prove that you canpensate? If you want me to overlook past grievances, you must demonstrate sufficient ability or credibility to convince me that you are capable ofpensating," Princess Qianyou said, turning her folding fan with a slight smile.


    Hearing Princess Qianyou''s words, Zhongshan furrowed his brows slightly but also let out a sigh of relief. Princess Qianyou wasn''t specifically targeting him; she was just trying to establish her dominance.


    "How can I prove it, princess?" Zhongshan asked in a deep voice.


    At this moment, given Princess Qianyou''s status, Zhongshan could only respond like this.


    "I won''t make it difficult for you. When I was at your cultivation level, His Majesty gave me ten questions. I solved eight of them, but there are still two I haven''t been able to solve. If you can solve them, I can overlook the past and treat you as an honored guest, calling you ''Master.'' If you can''t, then every time you see me in the future, you will have to kneel and pay your respects," Princess Qianyou said as she walked towards the throne in the north.


    As Princess Qianyou spoke, Shuitianya and Ada and A''er beside her couldn''t help but twitch their facial expressions. They knew Princess Qianyou''s wisdom better than anyone else. His Majesty''s ten questions? Although they didn''t know what they were, if even Princess Qianyou couldn''t solve two of them, how could an outsider solve them?


    Unconsciously, when the three of them looked at Zhongshan, they cast sympathetic nces at him.


    Zhongshan furrowed his brows. He naturally knew that this was Princess Qianyou''s way of testing him. His Majesty? Wasn''t that the ruler of the Great Luo Dynasty? Zhongshan was somewhat curious about the ten questions His Majesty had given, but it was evident that this was a trap. Could he avoid it?


    "Please, princess, I will do my best," Zhongshan could only jump into this trap. He was forced by the circumstances, and Princess Qianyou had also said that she was at his cultivation level at that time, so it should be within his capabilities. Hopefully, it wouldn''t be too difficult.


    "Good," Princess Qianyou smiled slightly.


    "A''da," Princess Qianyou called out.


    "Yes," A''da immediately stepped forward. With a gentle motion, he took out a metal sphere with a diameter of one meter and a Rebirth Pill, cing both spherical objects gently on the table where the projection of the map had disappeared.


    Zhongshan furrowed his brows slightly, walking up to examine them carefully.


    The Rebirth Pill was just a regr one, but the metal sphere was extremely smooth, except for two small holes with a diameter norger than half the size of a thumbnail. Through these holes, the interior appeared pitch ck.


    "These are the two questions," Princess Qianyou said with a smile.

 Chapter 167: The Promise

    <h4>Chapter 167: The Promise</h4>


    "Are these the two items?" Zhongshan squinted at the two objects.


    "A Reaching Ascension Pill and another metal sphere?"


    "Yes, this refining sphere, do you recognize it? This is the first question," Princess Qianyou slowly descended, a sense of satisfaction evident in her gentle fan gestures.


    "A refining sphere?" Zhongshan questioned.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s confusion, Princess Qianyou smiled faintly. "A refining sphere, as the name suggests, is used to refine one''s consciousness. You see this metal sphere, it has two openings, one is an entrance, and the other is an exit. Inside, there are over fifty thousand branching paths, but most are dead ends, like a maze. Only one passage can traverse both openings. What you need to do is to use a grain of rice to enter through one opening and exit through the other."


    With that, Princess Qianyou handed a grain of rice to Zhongshan.


    Looking at the grain of rice in his hand and then at the two openings, Zhongshan frowned.


    "You use your consciousness to explore the maze inside the sphere, then use your consciousness to guide the rice grain from the entrance to the exit," Princess Qianyou exined with a smile.


    "Well, this can indeed strengthen one''s consciousness and even the precision of consciousness, but I haven''t cultivated my consciousness yet. Isn''t the princess putting me in a difficult position?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "I didn''t have consciousness at first either. The Emperor also set the test this way. Do you doubt the Emperor?" Princess Qianyou pointed her folding fan at Zhongshan, questioning.


    "I dare not." Zhongshan was speechless for a moment. This Princess Qianyou was indeed witty. One sentence shut down all his excuses.


    "That''s good then." Princess Qianyou smiled, flipping her fan.


    "Um, can I have someone else do it for me?" Zhongshan immediately asked.


    "Have someone else do it? Of course not," Princess Qianyou paused slightly, speechless at Zhongshan''s question.


    Looking at the grain of rice in his hand, Zhongshan frowned. Over fifty thousand branching paths? So many?


    "This is the first question. The second is more straightforward. Do you see this Reaching Ascension Pill?" Princess Qianyou pointed at the pill.


    "Yes," Zhongshan nodded.


    "The second question is to turn this Reaching Ascension Pill into an Infant Transformation Pill," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Huh? Transform it? The Reaching Ascension Pill is a third-grade pill, while the Infant Transformation Pill is a fourth-grade pill. Does the princess want me to add ingredients and refine it again? Turn it into an Infant Transformation Pill?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Without adding anything?" Princess Qianyou was hesitant.


    On the side, Shuitianya and Ada Ada both broke out in a cold sweat for Zhongshan. This was definitely a difficult task. How could it be aplished? Turning pills out of thin air? We''re not immortals. The gap between the Reaching Ascension Pill and the Infant Transformation Pill is so huge, how could it be done?


    "What? Did you not hear what I said?" Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    But Zhongshan frowned, looking at the two items, and then at Princess Qianyou. Suddenly, he bowed deeply. "Princess, are your words true?"


    "True? What''s true?" Princess Qianyou was slightly taken aback. Of course they''re true, it''s about the task, isn''t it?


    "What the princess said earlier, if I solve these two questions, the past can be forgiven, and when seeing the princess, I don''t have to kneel and bow." Zhongshan said solemnly.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, everyone suddenly stared at him.


    Ada and Er were astonished as they watched Zhongshan. Was this guy a fool? These were obviously impossible tasks. How could he possibly aplish them? Guiding a grain of rice through the refining sphere required extraordinary luck, and turning a Reaching Ascension Pill into an Infant Transformation Pill was even more impossible.


    On the other hand, Shuitianya looked at Zhongshan with suspicion. From what he had heard from Tianwu, Zhongshan was an extraordinary person, but this boast seemed too much.


    Princess Qianyou, however, had a gleam in her eyes. The two questions were originally meant to humble Zhongshan, but at this moment, Zhongshan seemed to have a way. She knew that the Emperor had never set a time limit for these ten questions. She had made a bet with the Emperor. If Zhongshan could solve them, she would have won against the Emperor. And if he truly seeded, wouldn''t he be exactly what she desired? He would be a genius rivaling Master Shuijing.


    With a hint of anticipation, Princess Qianyou said, "Of course, they count."


    "In that case, I have a request, I don''t know if I should ask," Zhongshan said immediately.


    "You can ask," Princess Qianyou said.


    "I said it before, but I ask for the princess''s forgiveness," Zhongshan said again.


    "Alright, rest assured, I''m not petty," Princess Qianyou said, puzzled.


    "I request that the princess write it down in ck and white, to set my mind at ease," Zhongshan said.


    "You��" Princess Qianyou was angry, then looked at Zhongshan with a mix of irritation and amusement.


    Shuitianya and Ada Ada were sweating profusely on the side. Zhongshan was indeed not an ordinary person.


    At this moment, Zhongshan remained calm, observing his breath, because he deeply understood the saying, "Only viins and women are hard to raise." Obviously, Princess Qianyou wasn''t the type to adhere to conventions. If he didn''t hold her to her wordter, he would only have to swallow his anger. It was better to rify from the beginning. Moreover, judging from Princess Qianyou''s attitude, she probably wasn''t one to hold grudges.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s calm expression, Princess Qianyou felt a bit puzzled, amused, and even more intrigued. But Zhongshan''s words sounded more confident. Princess Qianyou''s anticipation grew.


    "Except for the Emperor and my father, no one dares to negotiate terms with me. You''re the first. Alright, today I''ll make a deal with you. If you can''t solve the questions, watch how I deal with you," Princess Qianyou took a deep breath.


    "Thank you, Princess," Zhongshan said calmly.


    Then, an unusual scene unfolded in the hall. Zhongshan took out pen and paper, and began to write��


    "I promise that if Zhongshan guides the grain of rice through the refining sphere and turns the Reaching Ascension Pill in his hand into an Infant Transformation Pill, all past grievances will be forgiven. Moreover, Zhongshan need not kneel and bow when seeing me in the future, and I will not target Zhongshan��"


    Zhongshan wrote two copies, both identical, and handed them to Princess Qianyou for her signature.


    Seeing this strange promise, Princess Qianyou was once again speechless. She felt as if she had been defeated. Extremely speechless.


    "Princess, please sign. Two copies," Zhongshan handed the brush to Princess Qianyou.


    His demeanor was akin to making someone sign a contract for selling oneself.


    Shuitianya and Ada Ada, on the side, were sweating profusely, wearing expressions of extreme disbelief. Zhongshan was indeed, well, very powerful.


    Princess Qianyou signed two "Ancient Qianyou" and handed the pen and paper back to Zhongshan. Obviously, if Zhongshan could solve the questions, she would never target him again.


    Satisfied with the two promise documents, Zhongshan put away the pen and one copy, handing the other to Princess Qianyou.


    "Princess, keep this one. Let''s begin," Zhongshan smiled.


    Taking the paper, Princess Qianyou nodded curiously at Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan walked up to the refining sphere, tapping it lightly and peering at the small hole, then nced at the grain of rice in his hand, and smiled faintly.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s smile, Princess Qianyou was puzzled. "Have you figured out a way?"


    "Well, with more time, there could be many methods, but for immediate action, there''s only one feasible way for now," Zhongshan said after a moment of thought.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, everyone frowned. Many methods? You must be kidding!


    Princess Qianyou furrowed her brows as she looked at Zhongshan. She had begun to doubt him, because it was impossible to have many methods. Zhongshan wouldn''t just make things up, right?


    "Princess, could you find me some strong and thin spider silk, some soybean oil, and an ant nest? I can guide the grain of rice through right away," Zhongshan said, looking at Princess Qianyou.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s request, Princess Qianyou''s brows furrowed even tighter. Her earlier doubts dissipated rapidly, because Zhongshan''s statement, "I can guide the grain of rice through right away," was so confident that it couldn''t be baseless. But what were these items for?


    "Ada, quickly go and fetch them," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes," Ada, though puzzled, quickly left the hall.


    Now it was just a matter of waiting for Ada to return.


    "Why do you need spider silk, soybean oil, and an ant nest?" Princess Qianyou asked in confusion. Because even she couldn''t think of a solution in such a short time, how could Zhongshan?


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan smiled faintly. "Princess, you''ve grown up in luxury and haven''t been exposed to the methods of us ordinary mortals. Because you don''t have ess to these things, it''s hard for you to imagine my method. If you were to experience the life of an ordinary mortal, you would definitely discover some miraculous things."


    Princess Qianyou remained nomittal, awaiting Ada''s return.


    In no time, the three items were ced on the table.


    Zhongshan looked at the sturdy spider silk and nodded in satisfaction. He picked out a robust ant from the ant nest and carefully tied the spider silk around its body. Then, he inserted the ant into one of the holes in the refining sphere, preventing it froming out.


    Next, Zhongshan picked out thergest queen ant from the ant nest, grabbed it, and ced it at the other hole of the refining sphere. From his storage bracelet, he took out a grain of rice and glued the queen ant to the hole, preventing it from leaving. Then, he blew gently into the hole.


    The queen ant wriggled continuously, as if in panic.


    Then, to everyone''s astonishment, Zhongshan''s spider silk began to enter the refining sphere continuously. More and more spider silk entered the sphere, clearly indicating that the sturdy ant inside was constantly moving around, pulling in more and more spider silk as it walked inside the refining sphere. And since the spider silk was extremely light and thin, it naturally didn''t weigh much. Even the small ant could pull in arge amount of spider silk and move freely.

 Chapter 168: Everyone Can Change

    <h4>Chapter 168: Everyone Can Change</h4>


    As they watched the dwindling spider silk outside, everyone widened their eyes, silently waiting for a miracle to happen.


    Princess Qianyou''s eyes sparkled as she watched the slowly advancing spider silk. ording to her intuition, Zhongshan might actually seed this time.


    With tens of thousands of pathways inside, could the ant miraculously find its way to the exit?


    Everyone patiently waited, only Zhongshan exuded boundless confidence. After half an hour, to the astonishment of Ada, A''er, and Shuitianya, the robust ant sessfully navigated the maze and emerged from the exit, dragging the silk toward the queen ant.


    "Zhongshan, is this the art of animal control?" Princess Qianyou eximed in amazement.


    "Animal control? Is this an animal?" Zhongshan looked at Princess Qianyou with a strange expression, pulling the silk.


    From what happened next, even without Zhongshan''s exnation, Princess Qianyou knew what to do.


    Zhongshan tied the grain of rice to the silk, then coated the silk and rice with soybean oil. He gently pulled from one end, and soon the rice came out from the other end.


    Obviously, the soybean oil was used to lubricate, preventing the rice from getting stuck midway.


    "Isn''t this the art of animal control?" Princess Qianyou eximed in astonishment.


    Princess Qianyou had considered seeking help from experts in animal control, but those experts could only controlrge beasts. They were powerless against such tiny ants. Could it be that Zhongshan was even more capable than those animal control experts?


    Seeing the puzzled looks of everyone, Zhongshan exined, "This ismon knowledge among us ordinary folks."


    Zhongshan''s exnation left everyone speechless. Common knowledge?


    Pointing at the two ants from earlier, Zhongshan exined, "Therge ant tied to the exit is the queen ant, and the sturdy small ant is a worker ant. When the queen ant is in distress, it emits a special scent for help. The worker ants will definitelye. I blew into the hole earlier to spread the scent inside, making it easier for the worker ants to find. Additionally, ants can emit some distress signals that you and I can''t hear. The worker ants rushed over because of that."


    "Scent? Distress signals? Indeed, this queen ant has been emitting strange sounds and a slightly peculiar scent," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Surprised by Princess Qianyou''s senses, Zhongshan was astonished. She could smell that? She could hear that? Just how strong was Princess Qianyou''s cultivation?


    "However, I don''t think this is what you callmon knowledge among ordinary folks, right?" Princess Qianyou smirked.


    "I apologize, Princess. I was bored as a child, so I observed ant nests and figured it out myself," Zhongshan said helplessly. To be honest, the knowledge about the queen ant and worker ants was indeedmon knowledge on Earth, but since Princess Qianyou didn''t believe it, there was no choice but to say it was self-observation.


    Princess Qianyou naturally wasn''t angry. At this moment, she was more pleasantly surprised. Why would she me him? Observed ant nests as a child? Figured it out by himself? If it were an ordinary person, how could they observe it?


    "You said there were many methods, didn''t you? If you cane up with another method, I won''t me you," Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan again.


    "Um, other methods require some time to find," Zhongshan said.


    "Oh?" Princess Qianyou looked puzzled.


    "The refining sphere has two holes, but only one pathway. So, there must be airflow inside the maze. Even if it''s subtle, too subtle for us to notice, there must be extremely subtle airflow. As long as we find small insects sensitive to airflow, bind them with silk, and ce something the insects are interested in at the other hole, just like how the queen ant attracts worker ants, we can quickly guide the insects across," Zhongshan exined.


    Shuitianya, Ada, and A''er were extremely convinced because Zhongshan''s second method, if mentioned before the ant navigation, would definitely have a higher sess rate. However, Princess Qianyou keenly sensed the difficulty of this method. It was too difficult; finding such insects would undoubtedly require a great deal of effort. However, Princess Qianyou didn''t expose it.


    Fanning herself with her folding fan, Princess Qianyou smiled faintly and said, "You''ve solved the first question. Now, do you want to think about the second one?"


    Did Zhongshan just happen to know about the ant navigation? Princess Qianyou didn''t think so. The questions weren''t known beforehand; Zhongshan just had a way of solving them as soon as they were presented. Although he solved it casually, it showed insight. Princess Qianyou was already very confident in Zhongshan''s abilities, so she suggested he think about it.


    Looking at the grain of rice turning into an infant pill, Zhongshan smiled slightly. The first question relied on luck, but turning the grain of rice into an infant pill was something Zhongshan was extremely skilled at. No, it should be said that after arriving at Wushuang City, this became extremely easy. If it were on Tiang Ind, there would never be a way.


    "Like threading the grain of rice through the refining sphere, turning the grain of rice into an infant pill is just as easy. In fact, once I exin the method, anyone can do it," Zhongshan said with a light smile.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Ada, A''er, and Shuitianya widened their eyes. It could be said that solving the previous question was a matter of luck, and Zhongshan had observed ants as a child. But turning this grain of rice into an infant pill? How could that be possible? Even for alchemy masters, they wouldn''t dare boast like this. No one could do it without adding anything, except perhaps immortals.


    But Zhongshan''s tone was as if anyone could do it? Wasn''t that a deception?


    "Oh?" Princess Qianyou eximed in surprise.


    "In that case, I won''t do it myself. I''ll write down the method, and let this...," Zhongshan said, pointing to Ada.


    "Ada," Ada volunteered.


    Actually, Zhongshan already knew this person''s name was Ada. He just didn''t know if it was his real name or a title given by the princess. So, he pretended to hesitate slightly. Since he volunteered himself, Zhongshan wouldn''t be polite.


    "Then let Ada give it a try?" Zhongshan smiled.


    After Zhongshan finished speaking, Ada became somewhat excited. Alchemy? Turning the grain of rice into an infant pill? What kind of magical spell was this? How powerful was it? Wouldn''t it be possible to turn a batch of grain of rice into a batch of infant pills in the future?


    Shuitianya and A''er looked at Zhongshan in amazement. Seeing Zhongshan''s attitude, it seemed extremely confident. Could he really do it?


    Princess Qianyou stared at Zhongshan and smiled slightly, "Good."


    Zhongshan stepped aside, took out a piece of paper again, and then took out the pen and ink. He wrote densely on therge piece of paper, while everyone patiently waited on the side.


    After half an hour, Zhongshan blew on the still-wet ink marks, put away the pen and ink, and handed the paper over.


    "Princess, please take a look," Zhongshan presented the paper.


    The princess took it gently.


    Seeing what was written on it, Princess Qianyou''s eyes lit up, and she understood the reason instantly. A burst of excitement shed in her eyes.


    "Ada," Princess Qianyou immediately handed the paper over.


    "Yes," Ada eagerly stepped forward. Meanwhile, A''er and Shuitianya watched with curiosity as Princess Qianyou handed the paper to Ada.


    Princess Qianyou understood it immediately, but Ada looked at it for a long time and couldn''t understand it.


    "Princess, what''s this?" Ah Da frowned.


    Upon the rice paper, it was written:


    "One Ascension Pill = Ny-five High-grade Spirit Stones = Ny-five Spirit Crumbs = Sixteen Sleeping Pills + Twenty-six Titanium Papers = Two Thunder Shock Fruits + Thirteen Jin of Dragon Saliva Cinnabar = ... = Twenty-five Thousand Spirit Stones = One Infant Transformation Pill"


    Looking at the densely packed characters, Ah Da was puzzled. But Princess Qian You seemed to harbor a slight anticipation. Her gaze towards Zhongshan was no longer one of initial hostility, but rather a kind of courtesy, waiting only for this method to seed.


    What method was this? It was a method ofmodity cirction, Zhongshan''s most adept method.


    Trade! Where there''s a market, Zhongshan will never starve.


    That day, while strolling through themercial district of Wushuang City with Nan Batian and Shui Wuren, Zhongshan had already noted down the prices of numerous items. Zhongshan was no ordinary person; although these prices were uniform throughout Wushuang City, he quickly found loopholes within them, making profits by exploiting the price differences of two goods, earning the difference. Zhongshan had learned this since he was young, but what if the prices of two goods were the same? Zhongshan had already created value differences for goods without price differences. It might be a bit moreplicated, but he would find more goods.


    Bartering might seem fair, especially since it was so uniform in Wushuang City, where things exchanged for other things would still amount to the same number of items. However, as long as Zhongshan took a nce, his mind quickly analyzed the moisture between the price and the value of amodity. If two goods had the same value, but one yielded huge profits while the other earned very little, then Zhongshan could easily exploit the profitable one to squeeze out the oil from the profits.


    This was a merchant, a great merchant, a truly shrewd merchant. Making profits from price differences? Better yet, make profits from value differences.


    "No need for assistance, within Wushuang City, there''s buying and selling of goods, as well as item exchanges. Take this Ascension Pill to anymercial district, follow my sequence for exchange, and in the end, it will turn into the Infant Transformation Pill," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Make a copy, and you handle it," Princess Qian You said.


    "Yes," Ah Da nodded with a hint of curiosity. Then, he took out a jade slip, quickly transcribed the characters written by Zhongshan, dropped the rice paper, and swiftly flew out with the Ascension Pill.


    "Princess, may I take a look?" Shui Tianya said.


    "Of course, you happen to be from the southern part of Wushuang City," Princess Qian You nodded with a smile.


    Meanwhile, Ah Er also seemed eager.


    "Ah Er, you take a look too," Princess Qian You said.


    "Yes," Ah Er excitedly stepped forward.


    The two grabbed the rice paper and began to read it carefully.

 Chapter 169: The Gentleman

    <h4>Chapter 169: The Gentleman</h4>


    Zhongshan stood quietly to the side, while Princess Qian You looked at him with keen interest, a demeanor of profound admiration evident in her expression. Of course, this admiration wasn''t of romantic nature but rather the kind of admiration for talent, a thirst for wisdom, the demeanor one has when encountering a great sage.


    However, for Zhongshan, this moment was also an opportunity. He wanted to understand the Great Luo Dynasty, to understand it openly and unrestrictedly. Relying solely on his fifth-rank official position was far from enough; Zhongshan needed a big tree, one that could shield him from the wind and rain.


    Princess Qian You was precisely such a big tree, and Zhongshan chose her, naturally intending for this big tree to offer him full protection. So, let his talents shine! The old fox''s sense of smell was extremely sensitive; Zhongshan''s would only be sharper. He needed to act decisively and showcase his abilities.


    After Zhongshan had done everything, he stood aside because he believed his goal had been achieved. In front of Princess Qian You, he was already a "great sage," and what needed to be done now was to be "subdued."


    Ah Er and Shui Tianya looked at the rice paper over and over again.


    "It''s real, this is correct," Shui Tianya eximed, wide-eyed, a look of incredulity on his face.


    It should be noted that the prices of goods throughout Wushuang City had already been standardized, thanks to decades or even centuries of price adjustments. They had been uniformly established. Moreover, most of the goods here were quitemon. You could absolutely find everything in several stores.


    "What''s real and correct?" Princess Qian You asked.


    "It''s all here, some of the exchanges are correct, I remember it vividly, but I can''t remember all of them, just a part of them. However, judging from this situation, they should all be correct. If that''s the case, then..." Shui Tianya''s expression turned to one of shock.


    "And then what?" Princess Qian You asked.


    "We''ve sent people to study the market in Wushuang City. The prices in Wushuang City''s market can''t change anymore; they''re already very uniform, and it''s impossible to squeeze out any more profits. But if this list from Zhongshanes out, the Ascension Pill will instantly be the Infant Transformation Pill. It''s too miraculous," Shui Tianya eximed.


    Zhongshan''s expression remained unchanged. What others found miraculous was merely his realm of expertise. You''ve sent people to study it? That''s because you don''t understandmerce. How can yourckeyspare to me in my field?


    Zhongshan remained calm andposed, waiting for the ultimate "truth toe to light," but Princess Qian You was already certain.


    Approaching Zhongshan, her previous smile suddenly disappeared. Facing Zhongshan, she ced her hands in front of her and bowed respectfully to him.


    "Mr. Zhongshan, I''ve been rude just now," Princess Qian You bowed respectfully to Zhongshan.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan couldn''t help but secretly admire Princess Qian You''s prowess. With her esteemed status, bowing to an insignificant figure like himself was undoubtedly a tremendous gesture.


    If it were an ordinary person, they would have been deeply moved. A princess, that''s a princess, and moreover, a princess of the Great Luo Dynasty. How noble a person she was, yet she was now bowing to you?


    Princess Qian You''s sincerity was evident; she aimed to win over Zhongshan with sincerity, wanting him to serve her wholeheartedly. It was evident that Princess Qian You was also a master of power politics. Gathering people''s hearts, she didn''t care about virtual fame and loss but cared about actual gain and loss. This was what made a person sessful. A person who truly understood the bigger picture. What harm was there in bowing? He didn''t lose anything, but what he gained was enormous.


    However, the person Princess Qian You bowed to was different from others. Zhongshan, who was Zhongshan? This scene seemed like something straight out of <i>Romance of the Three Kingdoms</i>, which I watched a lot of on Earth when I was younger. Back then on Earth, people casually critiqued national leaders, and as a figure of authority myself, I couldn''t be moved by a mere bow, could I?


    Watching Princess Qian You bow respectfully, Zhongshan couldn''t help but think to himself: Just bow if you want to. I bowed to you just now, and now you''re bowing to me. Huh, why does it feel so awkward? If we bow to each other again, will we end up as husband and wife?


    However, on the surface, Zhongshan still pretended to be pleasantly surprised.


    "Princess, you''re being too serious. I''m not worthy of such reverence," Zhongshan immediately tried to console Princess Qian You, with a look of ''apprehension'' on his face.


    "No, sir, you''re worthy. If Qian You can get Mr.''s help, it''ll be like how the Great Yu Dynasty relied on Yi Yan. Even if in dire straits, Qian You will still be able to hold her own," Princess Qian You sincerely said.


    "Princess need not be so formal, Zhongshan will do everything he can to assist you," Zhongshan immediately responded, very much in line with the usual rhetoric. Anyway, they were all clich��s from TV shows watched in his youth, no need to ponder, just say it.


    "Alright, with Mr.''s word, Qian You can rest assured. In the future, whenever Mr. needs anything, Qian You will do her utmost to help," Princess Qian You smiled.


    "Thank you, Princess. Also, Princess, you don''t need to call me ''Mr.'' in the future, just call me ''Zhongshan''. I''m still not used to it," Zhongshan said after some thought.


    Seeing Zhongshan, Princess Qian You''s eyes flickered, as if she had thought of something. She smiled slightly and said, "Okay, I won''t call you ''Mr.'' in public anymore, but the promise I made to you still stands."


    "Thank you, Princess," Zhongshan nodded.


    Ah Er and Shui Tianya looked at this scene with astonishment, utterly shocked because they had never seen the princess in such a manner before.


    Seeing their expressions, Princess Qian You furrowed her brows and said, "Forget everything you just saw. Zhongshan is still my subordinate, a third-grade guardian."


    "Yes," the two nodded. Although they were still somewhat puzzled, they had toply with the princess''s orders.


    Watching from the side, Zhongshan understood Princess Qian You''s intentions. She wanted to keep him as her hidden talent, or rather, hide him away and use him without letting others know. In other words, it was called "concealing one''s abilities."


    However, Zhongshan had no intention of stepping into the limelight for now. The interpersonalwork in the Great Luo Dynasty hadn''t been fully established yet. Once he was announced as Princess Qian You''s strategist, he would definitely be a target of public criticism. It was better for him to remain hidden for now. Everything should be taken slowly.


    "Sir, do you have a ce to stay for the time being? Why not stay here?" Princess Qian You suggested.


    "Sure, that''s fine," Zhongshan nodded.


    "By the way, both of us are members of the Seven Star Hall Alliance. Sir, do you practice the ''Thunder Purgatory Pure Yang Technique''?" Princess Qian You asked, recalling the scene on Fangshan Mountain where she saw Zhongshan in action.


    "That''s correct," Zhongshan nodded.


    "It just so happens that I have a few Thunder Flowers here. Hmm, I''ll also need to make some modifications to my residence to create a Thunder Stone training room for you. I''ll have someone engrave the Thunder Formationter," Princess Qian You said.


    "Thank you," Zhongshan said sincerely this time.


    Thunder Stone? That was an extremely precious material, and there hadn''t been much of it on the market before. The inventory was limited, yet it was now being used to build houses. All of this was to cater to his cultivation direction. It seemed that being Princess Qian You''s strategist also had great convenience.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s gratitude, Princess Qian You smiled faintly.


    At this moment, outside the main hall, Ah Da rushed in excitedly, holding a golden pill in his hand. The Infant Transformation Pill.


    "Princess, Princess, it''s changed. The Ascension Pill has turned into the Infant Transformation Pill," Ah Da eximed excitedly.


    "Sir, both questions have been solved. Qian You is very grateful," Princess Qian You smiled.


    Zhongshan nodded and smiled, not too proud, as both questions happened to be within his grasp and were not too difficult to solve.


    "If we follow Zhongshan''s method, won''t we be able to quickly convert arge quantity of Ascension Pills into Infant Transformation Pills?" Shui Tianya suddenly eximed with excitement.


    With this method, the poor would be wealthy in no time.


    "Not possible," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "Huh?" Everyone looked at Zhongshan with confusion.


    "Some of the quantities of the goods I listed are not veryrge. Once they are exchanged, it''s easy to change the market''s perception of the prices of those goods. This could easily cause a major market upheaval. While it might work for a few pills, if the quantity isrge, it could cause the current market system to copse, making it impossible to exchange themter," Zhongshan exined.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s exnation, Ah Da and Ah Er didn''t quite understand, but Shui Tianya and Princess Qian You immediately nodded in understanding.


    "Sir, your timing couldn''t be better. Qian You currently has a major matter at hand and would like your advice," Princess Qian You said.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan looked at Princess Qian You in confusion.


    "It''s like this. We''ve signed an agreement with the Great Yu Dynasty, dering a truce between the two dynasties. This achievement is considered a great merit for the ruler of Wushuang City on the battlefield''s edge. With such merits, coupled with previous political achievements, the ruler of Wushuang City will soon be promoted. At that time, when heading to the capital, a new ruler will need to be selected for Wushuang City," Princess Qian You exined.


    Listening to Princess Qian You, Zhongshan furrowed his brows slightly, as if he had already grasped something.


    "And the new ruler will be selected from among the four major city lords of Wushuang City," Princess Qian You continued.


    "The four major city lords? Lord Shui?" Zhongshan looked at Shui Tianya.


    "That''s right, it''s me. Among the four major city lords, I am one of them. While the lords of the Eastern and Western cities support the lord of the Northern city together, thepetition for the position of city lord is mainly between me and Lord Mo Baili of the Northern city," Shui Tianya exined.


    "Uh, I''m not familiar with Wushuang City, and I don''t know about thispetition mechanism. How am I supposed to make a decision?" Zhongshan shook his head. How do I put this? I''m not Doraemon; I can''t just say "ah" in times of difficulty and pull out a magical treasure from my pocket to solve everything.


    "Sir, don''t worry. We still have a year until the final decision is made. We have a year to prepare. As for how topete and how to be the city lord, I will exin everything step by step. By then, Sir will surely be fully aware of everything," Princess Qian You said.


    Zhongshan nodded. Indeed, if one wants to understand the system of the Great Luo Dynasty, starting from one thing would be the quickest. The moreplicated the matter, the sooner he could grasp what he needed.

 Chapter 170: The Competition for City Lord

    <h4>Chapter 170: The Competition for City Lord</h4>


    Five dayster, Zhongshan had a general understanding of the situation.


    The Great Luo Dynasty had four major princes, each of whom was granted the title of king. Each prince could represent two mid-level positions. Although their cultivation speed wasn''t multiplied by twenty as it was when they were princes, it was still increased by fifteen times, which was significantly faster than the original ten times.


    The emperor had many offspring, but there were only four princes because these four were the most promising. They weren''t necessarily the emperor''s sons but could also be his grandsons. As long as they were descendants of the emperor, they had the chance.


    Simrly, the princesses were different from those in the mortal world. The female descendants of the emperor were all called county princesses, with a lower status. Only a few exceptional individuals had the chance to be appointed as princesses, with a middle status. They had ten times the cultivation speed.


    Princess Qian You was the daughter of the Crown Prince, the granddaughter of the emperor, and was granted the title of princess. She had a middle status in the heavenly and earthly hierarchy and a cultivation speed ten times faster than usual.


    Each of the four major princes was an extraordinary figure. The Crown Prince, who was Princess Qian You''s father, was the first prince, or the first king.


    As for Wushuang City, it was essentially under the influence of the second prince.


    The second prince, the Great Xuan Prince, also known as the Great Xuan King, wielded immense power. With his own influence, he could resist the Great Yu Dynasty alone.


    In this region, whether civil officials or military officers, most of them were under the Great Xuan King''s control. Except for the emperor, the Great Xuan King had the greatest influence here, and no one could match him.


    The lord of Wushuang City was under the Great Xuan King''s control, as was the military intelligence of Wushuang City. However, the four major city lords were appointed by the court. Among them, the lord of the North City was from the Great Xuan King''s faction, while the lord of the South City was from the Crown Prince''s faction.


    Once a city lord was promoted and left, a new city lord would be selected from among the four major city lords.


    Now, it was time to select from among the four major city lords.


    Originally, after the court screened candidates, the list would be presented to the emperor, who would then directly appoint one of the city lords. Following the usual practice, along with the previous rmendation from the former lord of Wushuang City, there was no doubt that M�� B��il�� of the North City would be the next lord.


    However, the political situation wasplicated, and not everyone wanted the Great Xuan King''s influence to remain stable. Despite the outward appearance of the prosperous Great Luo Dynasty''s capital, the interior was turbulent, with intrigue and conflict in the court, and smoke rising from various corners.


    Each of the four princes had their own ns, and with their advisors providing counsel, every strategy and countermeasure was disyed on the small court stage. Theplexity of the situation was like thews of heaven and earth, intangible and unpredictable.


    Observing the small court, one could understand the myriad aspects of heaven and earth.


    On the court''s surface, the emperor observed the battles among his courtiers, sorting out his thoughts as if he were sorting out thews of heaven and earth, rectifying chaos and restoring order, intimidating the Great Luo Dynasty.


    The emperor''s words were like divinemands, capable of moving heaven and earth with a single hair. Each day, dealing withplex affairs and governing the court, instead of exhausting his mind, he seemed to be experiencing the principles of heaven and earth, likeprehending thews of the universe.


    Sorting out the world in order to confront the heavenly might!


    Wushuang City was a fortress located on the border with the Great Yu Dynasty, a stronghold, a barrier.


    The lord of a city held a middle status, enjoying the aura bestowed by the imperial court while also being supported by the city''s aura. Although still a middle status, the degree of aura they possessed was much higher than that of ordinary middle-status individuals in the capital.


    A middle-status individual''s cultivation speed was typically three times faster, but in the position of city lord, it could be three and a half times or even four times faster. Simrly, the former city lord pledged loyalty to the Great Xuan King, and thus, a portion of the aura would also be attributed to the Great Xuan King.


    While the aura wasn''t plentiful, it was better than none at all. umting a little here and there would eventually umte a lot, gradually forming a substantial amount. Who would give up on such an opportunity?


    This time, after the court''s internal struggles, a consensus was finally reached, which was also approved by the emperor.


    The four major city lords wouldpete among themselves, and the arbiter would be chosen by themon people and officials of Wushuang City. This wasn''t the first time such a process had urred, but it satisfied everyone.


    The Great Xuan King believed in his own influence in Wushuang City, where the army was basically his granary. If the former city lord, who had been managing for so many years, lost in the popr election, it would be uneptable. As for the Crown Prince, he was now quite satisfied. What was originally impossible had now be a possibility, especially since the lord of the South City, Water Tianya, was his man. Sending his most intelligent daughter to assist meant there was a certain chance of sess.


    Others were quietly observing.


    Wushuang City, including itsmoners, soldiers, and officials, had a poption of ten million, making it a powerful fortress. Among them, there were 1.2 million soldiers, fifty thousand officials, and the remaining 8.75 million weremoners.


    Looking at the data at hand, Zhongshan was immersed in a spring of electrical currents. Leaning against the edge of the spring, his mind was filled with thoughts.


    In just a few days, Princess Qian You had gathered arge amount of resources to create apletely new environment for Zhongshan, one that was most suitable for his cultivation.


    There were practice rooms filled with thunderous energy, pure Yang spirit fruits, and fine wine to aid cultivation. Even arge number of beautiful women attended to him. It seemed ordinary, but this spring could adjust the intensity of the electrical currents, allowing Zhongshan to cultivate at all times.


    The external conditions provided Zhongshan with the best, but of course, the best treatment was also because of Zhongshan''s abilities. If Zhongshan were a fool, no matter how good his aptitude was, he would only be a thug. Even if he had great potential, his value would not surpass someone who was one realm higher in cultivation.


    Zhongshan was a person who distinguished between gratitude and grudges. In the past, he had benefited from Princess Qian You''s favor at Bamen Mountain, but he had taken all the fruits for himself. Although it was based on individual abilities, Zhongshan still owed Princess Qian You a favor. Without Princess Qian You, Yinn would not have received the inheritance of the Bamen Gold Lock Formation. Being treated well here was one aspect, but crucially, Zhongshan still owed Princess Qian You a favor from the past.


    Therefore, during these days, Zhongshan had been wracking his brains for ideas.


    Water Tianya was clearly at a disadvantage. The army would definitely choose Mo Baili, and manyrge households in Wushuang City had already been approached by the former city lord. When the time came, they would bring their servants and rtives to support Mo Baili. With the four major city lords controlling the four directions of Wushuang City, Water Tianya didn''t haveplete control even over the southern part of the city. It would be difficult, very difficult, incredibly difficult for him to win the final election.


    After soaking in the electric spring for a while, Zhongshan gently got up and climbed out of the spring. The peerless beauties and maidservants brought by Princess Qian You quickly dried him off and helped him dress neatly. Zhongshan adjusted his clothes and slowly walked out.


    As soon as he arrived in the hall, he saw Princess Qian You ying with a teacup, with Ada and A''er standing behind her, and Water Tianya sitting on the side.


    Princess Qian You was still dressed in men''s clothing, looking very refined.


    "Oh? The princess is here? Why didn''t you announce it?" Zhongshan immediately approached with a slightly embarrassed expression.


    "The gentleman was bathing, so Qian You naturally didn''t want to disturb." Princess Qian You smiled.


    "Please don''t be so polite, princess." Zhongshan shook his head with a smile.


    "Gentleman, any progress on the election of the city lord?" Princess Qian You immediately asked.


    Zhongshan walked to the chair opposite Princess Qian You and sat down, smoothing his clothes gently.


    "Princess, can you tell me about this Mr. Shui Jing? I was thinking just now that it would be good to understand the other party''s situation." Zhongshan said.


    "Speaking of Mr. Shui Jing, besides my father and the emperor, of course, I admire Mr. Shui Jing the most. I have met Mr. Shui Jing before. He is a remarkable talent in the world, with extraordinary wisdom. However, he likes to keep a low profile. For some special reasons, he resides in the mansion of the Great Xuan King. I have invited him many times, but he has never agreed toe," Princess Qian You said.


    Listening to Princess Qian You, Zhongshan frowned. From the few days of contact, Zhongshan could feel Princess Qian You''s extraordinary intelligence and her pride. Although she called him "gentleman," it was just a way of keeping him in check, not necessarily genuine admiration. So why did she hold Mr. Shui Jing in such high esteem?


    "Mr. Shui Jing and Gulin arrived in Wushuang City three days earlier than me. In just these three days, Mr. Shui Jing persuaded the city lords of the East and West to withdraw from the election, promising to fully support Mo Baili for the North City Lord," Princess Qian You frowned and said.


    "So, it means that the East, West, and North cities are all supporting Mo Baili wholeheartedly, while Mr. Shui Jing only has control over the South City, and he hasn''t fully mastered even that?" Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    "Exactly," Water Tianya nodded slightly, sighing. The situation was indeed very unfavorable.


    "Then, does the princess have any arrangements?" Zhongshan asked.


    "The princess asked me to secretly mobilize one thousand subordinates to blend in with ordinarymoners in Wushuang City, praising my achievements everywhere, letting the people of the city know that once I take office, taxes will be reduced and numerous policies beneficial to themoners will be implemented, umting votes from themoners," Water Tianya said.


    "I admire what the princess has done," Zhongshan said immediately.


    This was propaganda, this was rallying support. Although it was basic, not everyone could do it.


    "Sir, you''re teasing me. I''m getting people to campaign, and Mr. Shui Jing can do the same. There are also many people in Wushuang City promoting Mo Baili," Princess Qian You shook her head.


    "Hehe, campaigning is normal, but this is a lengthy process. I can''t quickly turn the tide either. How about this, I have an idea, which the princess can consider," Zhongshan suddenly smiled.


    Hearing that Zhongshan had an idea, Princess Qian You''s eyes lit up. After all, she had ten counselors under her, but none of them hade up with any ideas. Zhongshan had one in just a few days?


    Water Tianya also stared at Zhongshan in disbelief, unsure if what he said was true or false!


    Zhongshan then took out a pile of Go pieces from his pocket and ced the white Go pieces on the south side of the tea table, while the ck Go pieces representing the four directions of the city were ced on the north side.


    Zhongshan picked up one of the ck Go pieces near the pile of white Go pieces and smiled gently. "Now, the Great Yu Empire is about to attack Wushuang City. Princess, what do you think this ck piece on the south side should do?"


    Zhongshan posed a riddle. Water Tianya didn''t understand, staring at the ck piece on Zhongshan''s fingertip with a puzzled expression, while Princess Qian You suddenly pped the tea table beside her, standing up excitedly.

 Chapter 171 - 171 The first plan, war crisis

    <h4>Chapter 171: The first n, war crisis</h4>


    "Crack!"


    Princess Qian You pped the tea table, knocking over the cups, her face filled with excitement. Then, she respectfully bowed to Zhongshan and said, "Thank you very much, sir."


    "I dare not." Zhongshan immediately stood up to return the gesture.


    "No, this matter concerning Wushuang City has been troubling Qian You for a long time. Unexpectedly, with just a few words from the sir, many things have be clear to Qian You. Regardless of what happens to Wushuang Cityter, the sir''s help has been invaluable to Qian You," Princess Qian You said.


    Zhongshan could only nod in response. Extending his hand, he said, "Please, have a seat, Princess. The implementation of all this still requires Mr. Shui to go."


    "Alright." Princess Qian You sat down, feeling a sense of relief.


    However, Ada, Er, and Water Tianya continued to stare at the Go pieces on Zhongshan''s tea table, looking confused.


    "Mr. Zhongshan, what do you mean by this?" Water Tianya asked Zhongshan.


    "Mr. Shui, after you return, you''ll need to reorganize the South City and put the entire area on high alert. Spread rumors privately that the Great Yu Empire is about to attack. Strengthen the city''s defenses and conduct thorough checks on everyone entering or leaving the city," Zhongshan smiled.


    "The Great Yu Empire is about to attack? We just signed a ceasefire agreement at the Fangshan Conference. Wouldn''t it be unwise for me to do this? If someone uses me of provoking conflict between the two empires, then my chances of winning this election will be even slimmer," Water Tianya frowned, puzzled.


    "use you? use you of what? You''re just taking precautions. You never said the Great Yu Empire was about to attack. You''re just enhancing city defenses, maintaining public order in the South City, and building Wushuang City better. Who would me you?" Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Uh?" Water Tianya thought for a moment and nodded.


    "But, what''s the use of this?" Water Tianya furrowed his brow.


    "Because when you send people to say that the Great Yu Empire is about to attack Wushuang City and advise tightening defenses, instilling fear in the popce, Mo Baili''s faction will definitely not do the same. They want to promote peace and harmony between the two empires," Zhongshan looked at Water Tianya and said.


    "Why?" Water Tianya asked in confusion.


    "If they follow your lead, in the eyes of the people of Wushuang City, they will appear inferior, as if Mo Baili''s vision is not as far-reaching or clear as yours. In the eyes of the people, Mo Baili will be slightly inferior to you. However, I think they definitely won''t follow your lead because they don''t want to appear inferior, and they''re also constrained by the military and the major families that originally supported Mo Baili," Zhongshan exined.


    "Huh?" Mo Baili looked at Zhongshan with slight confusion.


    "Mr. Shui doesn''t have deep roots in Wushuang City. It''s obviously toote for him to gain the support of some major families. So, he should start by winning over the hearts of the most rootless and powerless grassrootmoners," Zhongshan smiled.


    "But, will themoners really support me just by saying that the Great Yu Empire is going to attack Wushuang City?" Water Tianya asked, puzzled.


    Seeing Water Tianya''s confusion, Zhongshan was speechless. With things having progressed to this point, why didn''t he understand?


    "Wushuang City is on the border between the two empires. It has been a battleground for years. The residents here are more sensitive to the possibility of war. They are very concerned about it. When you spread the news, emphasize the crisis of war. Once the city is breached, women will be taken away to be soldiers of the Great Yu Empire, practicing cultivation day and night, while men will be enved to build cities and develop the Great Yu Empire''s glory. It''s best to find some examples of people who were previously harmed by the Great Yu Empire, and keep repeating those stories," Zhongshan said.


    "But, there has never been such a brutal army on the continent. Only in the West, it seems, there''s such a force. Other wars have never been so cruel. The Great Yu Empire is known for its strict militaryws and would never do such things. Will the residents believe it?" Water Tianya asked.


    Zhongshan rolled his eyes at Water Tianya and said to Princess Qian You, "Princess, you exin it to Mr. Shui."


    Princess Qian You had been squinting her eyes, smiling as she watched Zhongshan exin to Water Tianya. Seeing Zhongshan retreat in speechless defeat, she couldn''t help butugh. At the same time, she sighed inwardly at Water Tianya''sck of understanding. As long as one person believes, it''s a step towards sess. Even if they don''t believe, it still leaves a shadow in their hearts.


    "Just go if you''re told to, why so much nonsense?" Princess Qian You said to Water Tianya.


    "Yes." Water Tianya immediately fell silent.


    After taking a sip of tea, Zhongshan looked at Princess Qian You and said, "Let''s leave it at that for now. I''ve thought of as much as I can for the time being. If we can rally some people, then we''ll rally some people. We''ll figure out the restter."


    "Alright." Princess Qian You nodded. Apparently, Princess Qian You was satisfied with what had been thought of in these few days. At least, the previously deadlocked situation had loosened slightly. There was still nearly a year''s time; let''s take it slow��


    Ten dayster, on a huge floating ind to the north of the city.


    Inside a pce on the floating ind, Gulin, Mr. Shuijing, and Mo Baili were all standing inside.


    Mo Baili respectfully reported something to Gulin and Mr. Shuijing.


    Gulin looked slightly puzzled, while Mr. Shuijing''s brow furrowed tightly.


    "Are you sure the people sent by Water Tianya are saying this?" Mr. Shuijing frowned.


    "Yes, they''re inviting people to eat and drinkvishly in various majormercial areas and restaurants, then babbling nonsense as if they''re drunk. They''re saying that the Great Yu Empire has already amassed a million troops at the Tearing Heart Mountains, ready to attack the city. Some even say there are tens of millions or even fifty million troops gathering. They''re spouting nonsense about the city being breached and men being forced into very while women are taken to be soldiers of the Great Yu Empire. The South City and Water Tianya are fully prepared for war," Mo Bailiughed.


    "Has Water Tianya gone mad? How could he say such things? Who would believe it?" Gulinughed.


    "Some people will believe it," Mr. Shuijing shook his head.


    "Who? That''s impossible. This is simply absurd," Gulin immediately retorted.


    Looking at Gulin, Mr. Shuijing smiled wryly and said, "Young Master, Wushuang City has a poption of tens of millions. Not everyone is as intelligent as you. Rumors stop at the wise, but once they reach you, it''s like a wildfire spreading. With such arge city, it''s normal to have a few fools."


    "Just a few people. What''s there to be afraid of?" Gulin said.


    "There''s a saying: one rat turd ruins the whole pot of soup. If one fool believes it, it will make the people around him foolish too, making them doubtful. In this way, Water Tianya''s n will seed," Mr. Shuijing exined.


    Upon hearing Mr. Shuijing''s words, Mo Baili was taken aback. What should they do now?


    "Mr. Shuijing, I just remembered. The atmosphere in the South City is very tense right now. The city management teams have all been mobilized, checking various majormercial areas, and security at the city gates has been tightened," Mo Baili immediately said.


    Upon hearing Mo Baili''s words, Mr. Shuijing waved his feather fan lightly, furrowing his brows and muttering to himself, "Princess Qian You is very clever. No, this doesn''t seem like Princess Qian You''s style, but, hmm, perhaps I''m mistaken."


    "Shuijing, should we spread simr rumors?" Gulin immediately suggested.


    "No, if we imitate Water Tianya, then in the eyes of the people, Water Tianya''s influence will rapidly rise through Mo Baili. It will have a worse impact. Moreover, will the military believe it? Will the major families believe it? It will only backfire," Mr. Shuijing shook his head.


    "What should we do then?" Gulin immediately asked with concern.


    Looking at Gulin, Mr. Shuijing smiled and said, "Young Master, rest assured, this is just a minor disturbance. It won''t amount to much. Given time, it will fade away, and no one will believe them anymore. We just need to stick to our convictions, and in this era of peace, keep telling the people of Wushuang City that there will be peace in the future, that there will be no more wars, and make the people believe that as long as Mo Baili bes the city lord, there will never be war."


    "Okay." Gulin nodded.


    "Mr. Mo, do you know what to do?" Mr. Shuijing said.


    "Rest assured, sir. I''ll handle this matter myself," Mo Baili immediately smiled.


    Another month passed.


    In the backyard pond of Zhongshan''s residence.


    Zhongshan held arge knife and stood in the pond, slowly cutting through the water with the de. One stroke after another. With each stroke, it seemed as if he were slicing tofu, as if the water automatically parted to let the de pass.


    Zhongshan wasn''t using any energy; it was just an ordinary stroke, slowly cutting through the surface of the water.


    The cuts were very slow but also very eerie, as if the water itself was parting in two.


    This was Zhongshan''s training regimen, wave-splitting. Of course, he hadn''t reached the waves yet; he was just starting with still water. This was the third stage: slicing through the patterns of water. Water, flowing formlessly and shapelessly, how could it have patterns? But Zhongshan firmly believed it did.


    And gradually, Zhongshan found a hint of a trick. With minimal force, he could split the water apart.


    While Zhongshan was practicing, Princess Qian You arrived with Ada, A''er, and Water Tianya.


    Seeing Princess Qian You, the servants were about to bow, but Princess Qian You waved her fan to stop them, allowing them to leave. She then led the three to a stone table on the side.


    Princess Qian You sat down gently, while the three stood beside her, not daring to sit. They waited together for Zhongshan to finish his training.


    Watching Zhongshan slowly immerse and withdraw the knife from the water, Water Tianya couldn''t help but twitch involuntarily. He hadn''t seen Zhongshan release any trace of energy. It was as if a child were ying with a radish.


    Only Princess Qian You noticed. Seeing the subtle flow of water automatically parting at the de''s edge, her pupils contracted, a hint of astonishment shing in her eyes.

 Chapter 172 - 172 The second plan, three people become a tiger

    <h4>Chapter 172: The second n, three people be a tiger</h4>


    The day Zhongshan received the official seal of the fifth rank, he felt an inexplicable sense of relief throughout his body. It was a peculiar sensation, as if his body possessed an inexhaustible strength, a feeling that he could break through in his cultivation at any moment.


    Zhongshan knew it was the Qi fortune. With the establishment of the Great Gou Kingdom, the Qi fortune enveloped him, washing away his karmic obstacles. However, that was a gradual process, umting little by little, making the sensation less obvious. But with the confirmation of his fifth-rank official position in the Heavenly Dynasty, Zhongshan felt it instantly.


    Although he hadn''t reached the soft body stage, having such a vast Qi fortune enveloping him, along with the Qi fortune from the Great Gou Kingdom, Zhongshan could feel that his cultivation speed was now twice as fast as before. It saved him a lot of time. However, Zhongshan didn''t rx; despite his speed doubling, it was still only twice his original speed. Given his inferior innate aptitude, his cultivation was slow, even with this increase, he had only reached the speed of an average person with average innate aptitude.


    But the fact that he could increase it was still satisfying for Zhongshan. He never skipped a day of practice, focusing solely on his cultivation and asionally thinking about the election for the Lord of Wushuang City.


    Zhongshan''s fervent cultivation seemed to infect Princess Qian You. She had never disturbed him, quietly waiting for Zhongshan.


    After several attempts at slicing through the water, Zhongshan seemed to finally find the elusive weak point. He infused his true energy into the de, and a huge de energy was unleashed. With one slow stroke, he aimed towards the center of the pond.


    Beside him, Water Tianya finally saw Zhongshan make a real move. Before, it was like a child pulling a radish; now Zhongshan was genuinely using his true energy to slice through the pond. But what was the use of cutting the pond with a knife?


    As the de descended, at the moment it touched the water, the water parted rapidly in a bizarre manner. It was as if an endless gale blew through, sweeping in all directions from the de.


    However, there was no trace of Qi underneath the de, only de energy. Zhongshan hadn''t released any Qi, just the most basic de energy. As the de descended, the invisible force beneath it grew stronger and stronger. Suddenly, the water on both sides of the de churned like towering waves, madly rushing towards the banks.


    "Whoosh!"


    The banks were seemingly washed away by the torrential flow, as endless waves crashed ashore, even toppling somerge trees. Yet, in the middle of the pond, all the water was mysteriously forced apart by Zhongshan''s single stroke. The entire pond was emptied in an instant, only to flow back again as the water from the banks rushed in.


    This single stroke seemed to condense all of Zhongshan''s mental and true energy. After the stroke, Zhongshan stood in the empty pond, panting with exhaustion, but a smile of excitement spread across his face.


    At the moment Zhongshan made the stroke, Princess Qian You suddenly stood up, her eyes widening in astonishment. On the other side, the three men also looked incredulous.


    "Triple Wave-Cutting de!" Princess Qian You eximed in amazement.


    "No, it''s not that set of de techniques. The Triple Wave-Cutting de requires the strength of the Nascent Soul stage to be executed and has much greater power. The technique is also different. What... what kind of de technique is this?" Princess Qian You immediately overturned her previous conclusion.


    The other three also looked on in amazement.


    As soon as Princess Qian You eximed, Zhongshan turned to look. He had been so focused on creating this technique that he hadn''t even noticed her arrival.


    Lightly jumping onto the shore, he activated his true energy, and his clothes instantly dried.


    "Princess," Zhongshan said.


    "Sir, what kind of de technique was that just now? Why couldn''t I recognize it? And it seems to be a technique that can only be executed by someone in the Nascent Soul stage?" Princess Qian You asked in astonishment.


    Looking at Princess Qian You, Zhongshan realized that she could instantly discern his cultivation level, indicating that Princess Qian You was at least in the Harmony Stage. As for the de technique just now, it was his own creation - the technique of breaking the patterns. The firstyer broke the patterns of wood, the secondyer broke the patterns of stone, and the thirdyer broke the invisible patterns of water.


    Although Zhongshan served under Princess Qian You, he wasn''t foolish enough to reveal everything.


    "That was taught to me by a remarkable individual. Please forgive myck of skill," Zhongshan casually replied.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s response, Princess Qian You could tell that he was being evasive. Since Zhongshan didn''t want to borate, she didn''t press further.


    "Sir, we are about to start setting up voting booths in majormercial areas. The voting will begin shortly andst for ten months," Princess Qian You said.


    "Do you have the map?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Adai," Princess Qian You called.


    Adai quickly took out a white jade tform and ced it t. With a slight activation, a projection of the entire Wushuang City appeared. However, some areas were covered by red or blue screens, making them invisible on the map. Additionally, the projection was rudimentary.


    "Water Tianya, please exin the voting process to Sir," Princess Qian You said.


    "Yes," Water Tianya immediately replied, stepping forward.


    "There are seventy-twomercial areas in the city, each with ten squares where voting booths are set up. The booths are shaped like gourds, with two connected tforms, one red and one blue. Red represents me, and blue represents Mo Bairi. Each person has one voting opportunity. They just need to stamp their chosen tform with their private seal, and the vote is cast. This is a type of named artifact. Once a vote is cast, it bes invalid for a second time. Every day, the number of votes will be projected onto tworge jade discs in the city, one in the north and one in the south. In the end, we will see who has the most votes," Water Tianya exined.


    "Is it this kind of seal?" Zhongshan took out his official seal, which was asrge as a brick.


    "Yes, everyone in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty has one. Because they are made very uniquely, they cannot be forged. Moreover, due to the internal formation, each person''s private seal can be recognized by special items from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty," Water Tianya said.


    Looking at therge seal in his hand, Zhongshan felt a sense of wonder. How was this seal made? With such a seal, wouldn''t it be like having an identity card on Earth? Not only could it distinguish citizens, but it could also consolidate the cohesion of the people. It was indeed a good thing. Zhongshan vowed to find a way to obtain this technology in the future.


    "Now, how effective is our current propaganda?" Zhongshan asked Water Tianya.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s question, Water Tianya''s face revealed a trace of worry. Seeing Water Tianya''s expression, Zhongshan''s expression tightened, and his brow furrowed.


    "Sir, at first, your method was somewhat effective. Some people chose to believe it. But my people were promoting the ''war crisis,'' while Mo Bairi''s people were promoting the ''era of peace.'' Gradually, the public tended to favor them. Even those who originally believed in us gradually lost trust. Moreover, there areints in the southern part of the city that my management is too strict and causing inconvenience," Water Tianya shook his head and sighed.


    Princess Qian You, on the other hand, just sipped her tea, saying nothing. She watched quietly, a faint smile on her face, as if waiting for Zhongshan toe up with a solution.


    Since witnessing Zhongshan''s intelligence, Princess Qian You had increasingly high expectations of him. So much so that she didn''t even n to intervene in the election for Wushuang City anymore. She didn''t stop thinking because she couldn''te up with a solution, but because she didn''t intend to. She just wanted to watch and see how Zhongshan would n this election. It was like giving Zhongshan a test to see just how capable he was. As for the gains and losses of Wushuang City, they didn''t matter much to Princess Qian You. Even if Zhongshan seeded, it would only mean one city under the rule of the First Prince, which paled inparison to gaining a talented individual.


    After listening to Water Tianya''s words, Zhongshan was momentarily stunned, then speechless. How did Water Tianya end up in this position? What kind of methods was he using?


    "Lord Water, are your propagandists staying in one ce each day?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yes, they each stay in a different location every day to spread the message for me," Water Tianya replied.


    Seeing Water Tianya''s satisfied attitude, Zhongshan was at a loss for words. He nced at Princess Qian You, who gave him a look that seemed to say, "It''s up to you."


    Frowning at Princess Qian You, Zhongshan could guess her intentions. With a slight sigh, he decided to consider it as repaying the debt for experiencing the Eight-Gate Gold Lock Formation.


    "Lord Water, what you''re doing is propaganda, it''s undercover work. How can you let those people stay in one ce? Over time, people be immune to them. If they keep repeating the same thing every day, who will bother to listen attentively? You need to make them mobile. Each person should change locations two to three times a day. Over the next three hundred days or so, you should make sure each person covers all the propaganda points. Let the locals see different people talking about the ''war crisis'' every day. If they see three people a day, they''ll see thirty people in ten days. Eventually, they''ll see hundreds of people talking about the ''war crisis.'' Even if they don''t believe it, their minds will waver. Have you heard the story of ''Three People Make a Tiger''?" Zhongshan said, exasperated.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Water Tianya blushed, realizing his previous oversight.


    "And, I''ve noticed something off about you, Lord Water," Zhongshan continued.


    "Oh? What''s wrong?" Princess Qian You asked curiously.


    "Lord Water, if you don''t believe in the war crisis yourself, how can you expect your propagandists to confidently spread the message? Your demeanor affects their morale. If you don''t believe it, how can they? Firstly, you need to adjust your own mindset and fully believe it. Only then can you portray an image that inspires confidence in your propagandists, allowing them to better spread the message. Moreover, before they go out to spread the message each day, they must gather together first. Give each of them a refresher on the ''war crisis'' to reinforce their beliefs before they go out," Zhongshan exined. These were all techniques he had mastered during his time in multi-level marketing, his area of expertise.


    "Reinforce their beliefs?" Water Tianya looked at Zhongshan with confusion.


    "Yes, it means constantly instilling the idea of the ''war crisis'' into their minds every day before they go out, making them feel anxious and concerned. Only then can they spread the message effectively," Zhongshan said.


    "Will this make a big difference in effectiveness?" Water Tianya asked.


    "Of course. If you don''t believe it yourself, how can you convince others? When propagating, you must be confident and assertive. It''s a must, an absolute must," Zhongshan said solemnly.

 Chapter 173 - 173 Shout it out loud

    <h4>Chapter 173: Shout it out loud</h4>


    Three dayster, in the main hall of the Gu Lin Residence...


    Gu Lin, Master Shuijing, and Mo Baili stood together.


    "Prince, the results for the first day of voting are out. I received 36,000 votes, while Shuitianya only got 8,000 votes. That''s more than four times the number of votes," Mo Baili said excitedly.


    "This is just the first day. There are still many days ahead. Besides, with such a huge advantage, if you didn''t achieve this result, you should be ashamed," Master Shuijing said, shaking his head.


    "Yes, you''re right, Master," Mo Baili immediately reflected.


    "By the way, any developments from Shuitianya''s propaganda team?" Master Shuijing asked.


    "Why do you ask the same question every day? It''s always the same. Now, Shuitianya''s propagandists are bing less effective, and people are increasingly distrustful of them," Gu Lin chuckled.


    "No, Master, something strange happened yesterday," Mo Baili said.


    "Oh?" Master Shuijing focused on Mo Baili.


    "It seems that Shuitianya invested another 3,000 personnel in propaganda. Our people saw that every ce had three batches of peopleing and going all day long. Moreover, they were more convincing than before. Some were even passionately iming that the Great Yu Dynasty would tear up the agreement and attack Wushuang City tomorrow morning," Mo Baili exined.


    "Investing 3,000? That''s strange. There was no prior information about it. 3,000 people is not a small number, and ording to what you said, each of them was very effective in their propaganda," Master Shuijing furrowed his brows, pondering.


    "Shuijing, could it be that Qian You has deployed more people?" Gu Lin worriedly asked.


    Shuijing shook his head and turned to Mo Baili, asking, "How did these three batches of people appear? Did they appear only once and never again? And did each batch only consist of one person?"


    "Um? It seems so," Mo Baili thought for a moment and said.


    Hearing Mo Baili''s exnation, Master Shuijing smiled faintly and said, "Princess Qian You is indeed clever."


    "What''s going on, Shuijing?" Gu Lin asked.


    "It''s still the same 1,000 people, but now they''re on the move. Originally stagnant like stagnant water, now they''re active," Master Shuijing furrowed his brows.


    "Master, should our people do the same? Start moving around?" Mo Baili immediately asked.


    "No, we''re different from them. They want to create a crisis, instill fear in people''s hearts, while we aim for stability, to calm people''s hearts. Therefore, the effect of them moving around may not necessarily be stronger than ours. Princess Qian You is truly formidable," Master Shuijing praised.


    "What should we do then?" Gu Lin immediately expressed concern.


    "Don''t worry. Let half of our people stay put while the other half move around for propaganda. The people of Wushuang City still hope for peace and stability," Master Shuijing said, waving his feather fan.


    "Yes," Mo Baili agreed.


    In fact, Master Shuijing had one more thing he didn''t say: The people of Wushuang City not only hope for peace and stability but also fear the outbreak of war and the imminent danger.


    Two monthster, outside Zhongshan''s residence, he held his sword high, infused with true energy, and even activated a strand of pure Yang energy from his Purple Mansion.


    From a distance, Zhongshan fiercely shed down with his sword, sending a twelve-zhang de qi crashing down.


    "Boom!"


    With a loud noise, only a small part of it was formed by the de''s energy. The real sound apanied the de''s energy, and suddenly, a bolt of lightning as thick as an arm struck down.


    Under the impact of the lightning strike, arge tree in the distance exploded with a thunderous roar, and the powerful thunderstorm instantly destroyed the internal structure of the tree.


    Countless charred fragments flew through the air, disying the terrifying power of the de technique and lightning.


    This de technique was called "Heavenly Thunder Punishment," a form of the Thunder Prison Pure Yang Technique. It was no longer just a martial art technique of the innate realm but had risen to the level of magic. "Heavenly Thunder Punishment" was not just a name for a de technique but also for a spell. Zhou Shan released a thunderbolt with pure Yang energy, along with the de energy.


    Although it was only as thick as an arm now, as his cultivation increased, the thunderbolt would be thicker and thicker. By then, it wouldn''t just be one thunderbolt but a barrage of thunderbolts like pouring rain.


    Zhou Shan had broken through to the second stage of the Golden Core period. He sheathed his de smoothly. This breakthrough had indeed been fast, twice as fast as before, and he had also enjoyed the best conditions for cultivation. After being soaked in thunder for over three months and reaching the peak of the first stage of the Golden Core period when he emerged from the Ling Tide of the Kaiyang Sect, he had finally broken through.


    "Congrattions, sir, on advancing your cultivation technique," came Princess Qian You''s apuse from nearby.


    Zhou Shan quickly sheathed his sword and turned to look. At this moment, Princess Qian You was standing there with Ada, A''er, and Shuitianya.


    Zhou Shan no longer minded being seen practicing by Princess Qian You. There was nothing to be concerned about. With the improvement of his ordinary techniques, Princess Qian You wouldn''t notice anything unusual, let alone trouble him.


    "Please, sir, have a seat," Princess Qian You immediately pointed to the nearby stone table.


    Zhou Shan didn''t hesitate to sit down. The tea on the table was the finest immortal tea, and with just a sip, he feltpletely refreshed after the energy expenditure from his previous strike.


    "How are the recent votes in the city?" Zhou Shan asked.


    Princess Qian You smiled slightly but didn''t say much, waiting for Shuitianya''s report.


    "Sir, Mo Baili now has one million votes, while I have 230,000," Shuitianya reported.


    "Huh? That shouldn''t be the case. Logically speaking, with us promoting ''war crisis'' and Mo Baili promoting ''era of peace,'' in a border city like Wushuang City, ''war crisis'' should be more convincing. Why are our numbers so low?" Zhou Shan frowned.


    "Our people have tried their best in promoting, but we stillck numberspared to Mo Baili. We only have about a thousand people, while they have three thousand," Shuitianya exined.


    "Insufficient numbers?" Zhou Shan furrowed his brows.


    "Yes," Shuitianya replied.


    "Is a thousand not enough? In the entire Wushuang City, there are only seventy-twomercial districts. With an average of fourteen people per district, shouldn''t that be enough for your organization?" Zhou Shan widened his eyes.


    "Eachmercial district is quiterge, and with numerous taverns, having only fourteen people seems inadequate," Shuitianya expressed concern.


    Zhou Shan hesitated for a moment as he looked at Shuitianya. Then, he took a deep breath, his expression turning very serious.


    Seeing Zhou Shan''s expression, Princess Qian You smiled slightly because she knew from the previous two experiences that Zhou Shan was once again feeling frustrated by Shuitianya''s actions.


    "Zhou Shan didn''t get angry, but quickly steadied himself and said to Shuitianya, "Master Shuitianya, here''s what we''ll do. I''ll give you a n, and you follow it."


    "Please, sir, go ahead," Shuitianya immediately responded.


    "From now on, don''t stay in the taverns for promotion. It''s too slow there," Zhou Shan said.


    "But taverns have the highest foot traffic. That''s where promotion can reach the widest audience," Shuitianya puzzled.


    "But with so many taverns, can you cover them all?" Zhou Shan asked.


    "This?" Shuitianya furrowed his brow. It was indeed difficult with so few people.


    "You need to find out where the most people gather," Zhou Shan asked.


    "Hmm?" Shuitianya pondered.


    "zas. Everyone has to pass through various shops, taverns, and other ces to reach the za, especiallyrge intersections. That''s where the most people are. Let your people promote there," Zhou Shan said.


    "There? Won''t that be too conspicuous? And it seems too artificial. Especially for promotion, apart from those who absolutely idolize me, no one would do that. It''s too radical. People will see through it immediately," Shuitianya puzzled.


    "Idolize you? Too radical? Well, Master Shuitianya also knows that such people exist? Since you know, what''s there to be afraid of? As long as there''s such a possibility, it''s reasonable. Whether one or a thousand appear, what''s the difference? Let them make a scene, let everyone know you. Divide eachmercial district into four sections, with someone responsible for promotion in each section, while others provide support. You have to shout out loud, shout out your support, shout until you''re red in the face. That''s the only way to infect others, and produce arge number of your promotional flyers. Give one to everyone you see," Zhou Shan said.


    Upon hearing Zhou Shan''s words, Shuitianya swallowed hard, his mouth opening and closing for a long time without saying anything.


    "Master Shuitianya, you need to understand that this election campaign is like a war. You need to throw yourself into it wholeheartedly. Victory or defeat can happen in an instant, it''s all about strategy. In Wushuang City, the majority aremoners, and for many of them, they don''t care who bes the city lord as long as they can ensure their safety and livelihood. Right now, you need to infect them. They need to believe that you are the one who can ensure their safety. The war crisis is here, and only you can ensure that this crisis can be resolved," Zhou Shan exined.


    "Shuitianya has learned. Thank you, sir," Shuitianya bowed respectfully to Zhou Shan.


    "Well, go on and continue your promotion," Zhou Shan said.


    "Yes," Shuitianya nodded immediately and then bid farewell to Princess Qian You before quickly leaving.


    After Shuitianya left, Princess Qian You picked up a cup of tea and smiled, "Sir, your ideas are truly imaginative. Qian You admires that."


    "Princess is too modest," Zhou Shan shook his head and smiled.


    "Qian You is not being modest. Sir''s consecutive strategies have truly broadened Qian You''s horizons," Princess Qian You smiled.


    "Hehe, a series of strategies constitutes a strategy," Zhou Shanughed.


    "A good strategy indeed. Qian You has learned," Princess Qian You smiled.


    "Hehe, with the princess''s appreciation, Zhou Shan will naturally do his best. Those were just preludes. These days, I''ve finallye up with a strategy that can turn the tide," Zhou Shan smiled confidently.

 Chapter 174: The Beginning of Zhongshan鈥檚 Scheme

    <h4>Chapter 174: The Beginning of Zhongshan''s Scheme</h4>


    Inside the central hall of the Floating Ind where Gulun resides, Gulun and Master Shuijing each hold a small piece of paper, frowning as they read.


    In front of them, Mobeili is anxious beyond measure.


    "Master, Sir, this Shuitianya has no shame. Now he''s actually sending people to the streets to shout and distribute these kinds of flyers," Mobeili says angrily.


    Gulun and Master Shuijing look at the promotional flyers in their hands��


    "The Great Yu Empire is cruel and wicked, they areing to attack again. Have you had brothers die at the hands of the Great Yu Empire? Have you had friends fall into the hands of the butcher of the Great Yu Empire? The cruel and brutal Great Yu Empire is just outside the South City. They areing again. They want to breach the city, they want to capture us as ves, to build stronger cities for them, they want to capture our wives and daughters as cauldron materials for their army''s cultivation.


    Do you want to taste the taste of losing your home and loved ones? Do you want to experience being enved and used as cauldrons? Then ept the status quo!


    There is a person who does not want to see this happen. Even though the Fangshan Conference has just taken ce, he still insists on being vignt against the Great Yu Empire, always prepared for war, always thinking for the future of countless citizens of Wushuang City. He is none other than Shuitianya of the South City.


    The South City has always been in a state of vignce, Shuitianya is always ready for war with the Great Yu Empire. Shuitianya can defend the South City and ensure that it is never breached by the demons of the Great Yu Empire. But, what about other directions?


    Perhaps the demons of the Great Yu Empire are a bit foolish. They only attack the South City and don''t attack other city gates, right? Because the other directions are peaceful and safe.


    Is this possible?


    Do you want Wushuang City to be the barrier between heaven and earth, never to be breached? Then vote for Shuitianya of the South City.


    For our safety, vote for Shuitianya! ����


    "Shameless, absolutely shameless. This Shuitianya has truly gone too far," Gulun says angrily.


    "Yes, Sir, Master, Shuitianya has truly been too ostentatious this time. This is just one version of the flyer, and there are many more. Those people distributing flyers seem to be going crazy, shouting and yelling every day," Mobeili says worriedly.


    "What''s the situation with the current voting?" Gulun asks.


    "I''m still leading by arge margin, but the rate at which Shuitianya''s votes are increasing is rapidly catching up to mine. Although I still have nearly eight hundred thousand more votes than him, the number of votes he''s gaining every day is almost catching up to mine," Mobeili says.


    "Sir, what should we do now?" Gulun immediately asks with concern.


    Master Shuijing fans himself lightly with his feathered fan, furrowing his brow lightly as he thinks. "Since their people have torn up the rules and taken to the streets, then, Mobeili, you should also have your subordinates go out to the streets for promotion."


    "Yes, we have three times as many people as they do, so when the timees, we''ll also distribute flyers and hold speeches. The effect is definitely going to be better than theirs," Gulun says excitedly.


    "Yes," Mobeili nods immediately.


    "Also," Master Shuijing says, shaking his feathered fan.


    The two look at Master Shuijing together.


    "Let the Military Intelligence Bureau supervise all soldiers and have them all vote for us," Master Shuijing says.


    "Sir, with the Military Intelligence Bureau involved, the votes of the military will definitely be in our favor. But is it too conspicuous to have them all vote for us all at once? Wouldn''t it be bad for my father''s reputation?" Gulun furrows his brow and asks.


    Seeing Gulun''s expression, Master Shuijing smiles faintly. He didn''t expect Gulun to think so deeply.


    "Sir, the Military Intelligence Bureau belongs to His Highness, it''s not some big secret. It''s just that it hasn''t been mentioned before. It''s fine to mention it now. However, in addition to being His Highness''s people, the Military Intelligence Bureau also belongs to the Emperor. These votes that belong to us should be grasped as soon as possible, turned into numbers, to prevent anyst-minute changes," Master Shuijing says.


    "Huh?" Gulun looks at Master Shuijing with confusion.


    "Because if we don''t seize the votes now, we may lose some votester. The army and the civilians in the city are different. Especially the army of Wushuang City, the soldiers here are ustomed to constant warfare, they are more bellicose, they crave war more because many of their brothers have died at the hands of the Great Yu Empire. They want revenge. I''m worried that Princess Qianyou will use this point to influence these soldiers," Master Shuijing says, taking a deep breath.


    "Yes, we must act quickly," Gulun bes anxious immediately.


    "Thank you, Sir," Mobeili says immediately. Obviously, as Master Shuijing said, if the other side finds the army, then suddenly losing votes that belong to oneself would be heartbreaking.


    "Son, you go find the Military Intelligence Bureau now, and Mobeili, you quickly organize people for promotion," Master Shuijing says.


    "Yes," both of them nod and quickly leave, each attending to their respective tasks.


    After the two leave, Master Shuijing''s brow furrows tightly. He walks out of the hall lightly and looks up at the distant stars, saying softly, "Princess, this isn''t like your style. Could it be that there''s another talented individual around you?"��


    Outside Zhongshan''s residence.


    "Sir, this is the master craftsman, especially skilled in crafting Breaking Gang Arrows. It can be said that within Wushuang City, aside from this Master Zichen, no one else can surpass him in crafting Breaking Gang Arrows," Princess Qianyou points to a man in gray robes beside her.


    "Master Zichen? My apologies," Zhongshan says immediately.


    "No need for formalities. Sir, whatever orders you have, please tell me. I will do my utmost," Master Zichen says.


    "Oh, can Master Zichen tell me about Breaking Gang Arrows?" Zhongshan asks with a smile.


    "Yes, Breaking Gang Arrows have two parts, a bow and an arrow. Depending on their grade, they can have different levels of power. The weakest Breaking Gang Arrows can break through the Gang Shield of a Golden Core Stage cultivator. As for the strongest bow and arrow, it is said that it can shoot into the starry sky, with a single arrow capable of shattering stars. As for the bows and arrows I craft, the most they can do is break through the Gang Shield of a Unity Stage cultivator, of course, under the condition that the Unity Stage cultivator does not take other defensive measures or use magical weapons," Master Zichen exins.


    "Can it break through the Gang Shield of a Unity Stage cultivator? Then what level of cultivation is needed to fully unleash the power of such a bow and arrow?" Zhongshan furrows his brow and asks.


    "At least the Nascent Soul Stage," Master Zichen says.


    "So, can these arrows really kill a Unity Stage cultivator?" Zhongshan asks again.


    "No, they can only break through their protective shield. If it''s a truly strong Unity Stage cultivator, they can quickly dispel it or use their sword to cut the arrow down," Master Zichen says.


    "Mr. Shui, what''s your cultivation level?" Zhongshan suddenly asks Shuitianya beside him.


    "I am in the Nascent Soul Stage," Shuitianya says.


    "So, you mean, these arrows that can break through the Gang Shield of a Unity Stage cultivator can definitely kill Mr. Shui?" Zhongshan suddenly smiles.


    Hearing what Zhongshan said, Shuitianya breaks out in a cold sweat. "Yes, faced with such a bow, if I don''t take precautions, I basically have no chance of survival."


    "No chance of survival? If the arrow enters the body, it only pierces through. If it doesn''t hit a vital point, wouldn''t there still be a chance of survival?" Zhongshan asks in confusion.


    "The breaking of the Gang Shield depends on the bow, but after the arrow enters the body, due to its different attributes, it may explode, freeze, or contain a deadly aura, destroying the Purple Mansion and injuring the Nascent Soul. Then it would be very difficult to save oneself," Master Zichen exins.


    "Then, if Mr. Shui dodges with all his might, can he escape from this arrow?" Zhongshan asks.


    "He should be able to. When you reach the Nascent Soul Stage, if there''s an arrow pointing at you, you will feel a sense of impending danger and can quickly evade it. However, if there are many archers, avoiding them bes difficult," Shuitianya exins.


    "Alright, then in a few days, please trouble Master Zichen to forge a special bow for me, along with several special arrows. I will exin their specific uses to youter," Zhongshan smiles.


    "Yes, rest assured, Sir," Master Zichen nods.


    Then, after seeing Master Zichen off, they discuss further, as they don''t want more people to overhear their conversation.


    "Sir, how''s the situation in the city now?" Zhongshan asks directly.


    "Mobeili has also started promoting, and he openly grabbed all the votes of the army. He now has 3.1 million votes, while I only have 1.05 million," Shuitianya frowns.


    "Hehe, don''t worry. It''s just two million votes, right? There are ten million people in the city, and half of them haven''t voted yet. Besides, isn''t the gap between the people voting for you and those voting for Mobeili getting smaller?" Zhongshan smiles.


    "True, the number of votes is increasing every day, and now the difference with Mobeili is not that big," Shuitianya smiles.


    "In that case, you don''t have to worry. There are still a few months left. Let Mobeili be happy for a while. In the end, when you turn the tables, it will be your turn tough," Zhongshanughs.


    "Yes, sir," Shuitianya responds with a hint of excitement.


    "However, there''s one more thing I need you to do," Zhongshan says after some thought.


    "Please tell me, sir," Shuitianya respectfully says. Because of Zhongshan''s series of actions, Shuitianya has seen hope, so he respects Zhongshan more and more, even though Zhongshan''s cultivation level is still low.


    "I need you to buy off someone from the opposing core camp," Zhongshan says.


    "Buy off? Sir, this is quite difficult. The core camp is the group of people Mobeili trusts the most. Being trusted by Mobeili, these people are not easy to buy off," Shuitianya furrows his brow.


    "That''s why you need to carefully select and persuade them slowly. You can try to find more people. There will always be someone," Zhongshan smiles.


    "But, sir, if this news leaks out, and if those people pretend to agree and then betray us, what should we do?" Shuitianya furrows his brow. Clearly, it''s very difficult to win over people from Mobeili''s core camp, very difficult indeed.


    "Leak the news? Betrayal? Haha, don''t worry, Shuitianya. I never intended to keep it from Mobeili in the first ce. As for betrayal, we''ll see when the timees. We''ll see how they betray us," Zhongshan says confidently.


    "Huh? What do you mean, sir?" Shuitianya looks puzzled.


    "Don''t ask too much. Just do as I say," Zhongshan says mysteriously.


    "Yes," Shuitianya furrows his brow.


    "Do as Sir says!" Princess Qianyou says to Shuitianya.

 Chapter 175: Setting a Trap for Mr. Shui Jing

    <h4>Chapter 175: Setting a Trap for Mr. Shui Jing</h4>


    After Shuitianya left, Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan and smiled, "I suppose you''re targeting someone, sir?"


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan smiled slightly, "The princess is indeed perceptive. Over the past few days, I''ve gradually seen the brilliance of Mr. Shui Jing. His methods are subtle and effective, often disrupting my ns. Having such a formidable strategist in the enemy camp is certainly not advantageous for us."


    "Oh? Are you nning to target Mr. Shui Jing?" Princess Qianyou''s interest was piqued.


    Princess Qianyou had entrusted Zhongshan with full authority, observing each of his ideas and actions closely. Zhongshan''s value in her eyes was rising rapidly. She was eager to see how talented Zhongshan truly was and whether he could match up to Mr. Shui Jing. This entire voting campaign had essentially be a battle between two strategists: Zhongshan and Mr. Shui Jing.


    In this unseen war of votes, with Zhongshan on the offensive and Mr. Shui Jing on the defensive, each exerted immense effort. Though their actions were subtle, Princess Qianyou could see the peak of their strategic confrontation.


    But who was truly stronger?


    Now, Zhongshan suggested specifically targeting Mr. Shui Jing, which made Princess Qianyou even more eager to see the oue.


    "This is exciting," thought Princess Qianyou, finding it more thrilling than the mere gain or loss of a city.


    "Haha, if it were a direct confrontation, I wouldn''t be certain of the oue. However, since Mr. Shui Jing doesn''t know me, I can use this advantage to set a trap for him, waiting for him to walk into it," Zhongshan said with a confident smile.


    "A trap? Waiting for Mr. Shui Jing to fall for it? What will be the result?" Princess Qianyou asked, a bit excited.


    "Once Mr. Shui Jing falls into the trap, it will lead to aplete copse of the opposition, causing them to lose all public support. Mobeili will have no chance to rise again," Zhongshan said with confidence.


    "I''m very much looking forward to it," Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Haha, Mr. Shui Jing''s wisdom is something I''ve witnessed these past days. I''ll strike unexpectedly. Whether it works or not will depend on fate," Zhongshanughed.


    "Man proposes, God disposes. I look forward to your great victory," Princess Qianyou said with a smile.


    "I will do my best," Zhongshan nodded and smiled.


    In a grand hall on a floating ind in the north of Wushuang City.


    Gulin sat on the throne, with Mr. Shui Jing standing beside him, fanning himself. Below, Mobeili stood respectfully, with five men waiting quietly behind him.


    "Sir, these five are from my Northern Camp. In recent days, they were approached by Shuitianya''s subordinates, attempting to buy them off," Mobeili reported.


    "Oh? Buy them off? For what purpose?" Gulin asked in confusion.


    "I''m not sure. These five are my trusted aides, so they refused immediately and reported to me," Mobeili said respectfully.


    "They''reing on strong and without fear," Mr. Shui Jing frowned as he shook his feather fan.


    Over the past few months, Mr. Shui Jing had realized that this was not the style of Princess Qianyou. There was another powerful strategist behind her, hidden in the shadows, whose every move was shocking. If not for Mr. Shui Jing''s countermeasures, Mobeili''s campaign would have been in grave danger.


    Mr. Shui Jing was extremely curious about the person behind Princess Qianyou. Who could it be? Did he know them? However, he hadn''t mentioned this curiosity. Despite being on Gulin''s side, he seemed tock a deep master-servant rtionship with Gulin, always attributing actions to Princess Qianyou.


    In Shui Jing''s view, as long as the opponent remains unchanged, knowing alone is sufficient. A duel between experts requires focus, and he wanted to see just how capable this shadowy figure behind the scenes truly was.


    "Shui Jing, what do you mean by ing on strong''?" Gulin frowned, and everyone turned to look at Shui Jing.


    "The fact that they came to inform you proves that Shuitianya is trying to buy your people. These individuals are loyal to you, but what if there are those who couldn''t resist the temptation and didn''t report it?" Shui Jing shook his head.


    Hearing this, Mobeili was suddenly startled. Indeed, there might be others who hadn''te forward and might have been bought.


    Thinking of this, cold sweat broke out on Mobeili''s forehead.


    "Shui Jing, what should we do now?" Gulin asked immediately.


    "Currently, you lead Shuitianya by two million votes, a seemingly unshakable advantage. However, the opponent''s actions must have a deeper meaning. We need to understand why Shuitianya is trying to buy your people." Shui Jing frowned.


    "What do you suggest, sir?" Mobeili looked at Shui Jing.


    "Counter with a ruse," Shui Jing shook his feather fan, his brows furrowing as he felt a fleeting sense of unease but couldn''t pinpoint the source.


    "Are you suggesting that my people pretend to be ''bought'' to uncover Shuitianya''s ns?" Mobeili''s face lit up with a smile.


    "Indeed. Instead of passively being schemed against, it''s better to actively probe their intentions to formte a response." Shui Jing nodded.


    "Yes, I''ll arrange it immediately." Mobeili said excitedly.


    "Go ahead," Shui Jing nodded.


    Outside the practice room of Zhongshan''s residence.


    Zhongshan wiped off his sweat and emerged from the room filled with lightning.


    Princess Qianyou, Ada, A''er, and Shuitianya were already waiting outside.


    "Sir, I have sessfully bought two of their people��one is Mobeili''s cousin and the other is one of his subordinates," Shuitianya reported immediately.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan walked to the group, grabbed a bowl of tea from the table, and drank it.


    "Two people. These two recently had a slight rift with Mobeili, but they were originally his trusted aides and core members of his group," Shuitianya exined.


    "Haha, a slight rift? Likely staged for our benefit. No matter, I want them to know about it. You, on the other hand, should pretend not to know and have these two spy on Shui Jing''s ns," Zhongshan said with a smile.


    "I asked, but they can''t see Shui Jing. He always meets with Mobeili alone and gives instructions through him," Shuitianya replied.


    "No matter. Just keep them for now. When the crucial moment arrives, we''ll use them," Zhongshan said.


    "What do you want them to do, sir?" Shuitianya asked, puzzled.


    "What are their cultivation levels?" Zhongshan asked instead of answering.


    "The subordinate is in thete Jindan stage, while Mobeili''s cousin is in the Yuanying stage," Shuitianya said.


    "Good, that will do. For now, just keep them in ce. When there are five days left, I''ll tell you what to do," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Understood," Shuitianya nodded.


    "Sir, is your tant buying of Mobeili''s people meant to be noticed by Shui Jing?" Princess Qianyou, sitting to the side, asked with a smile.


    "Correct. By buying their people, I''m making Mobeili and his men overthink and rack their brains. However, given Shui Jing''s past tactics of using one''s own methods against them and the habits he''s developed from my previous actions, when he can''t figure out the reason, he''ll likely use the same tactic against us. Shui Daren, be prepared for your subordinates to be ''bought'' by them, and when that happens, make sure to extract plenty of benefits," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Yes," Shui Tianya responded, a peculiar look on his face.


    "Alright, go and make your preparations," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes," Shui Tianya replied, bowing before leaving.


    "Sir, what''s your ultimate goal with this strategy?" Princess Qianyou asked Zhong Shan with a smile.


    "Shui Jing is a rare genius, making it extremely difficult to trap him. Given this, I''ll lead him around in circles, then tie a knot, causing his infinite wisdom to divert at this junction and extend in a different direction," Zhong Shan exined with a smile.


    "Good. I''m looking forward to seeing how Shui Jing maneuvers in the maze you''ve set," Princess Qianyou said with a smile.


    "Rest assured, Princess. I''ll ensure you witness a truly spectacr show," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Meeting you has been a great fortune for me. Is there anything you need for your cultivation?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "I need an opponent," Zhong Shan said, after a moment of thought, without hesitation.


    "An opponent?" Princess Qianyou asked, surprised.


    "Indeed. Practicing behind closed doors will always leave one at a disadvantage. I needbat. Princess, find some strong opponents who can truly hone my skills to be my sparring partners. I want to fight, to keep fighting, even if I''m covered in wounds, I need to keep moving forward," Zhong Shan said directly.


    Finding sparring partners who could maintain a bnce without causing serious harm meant looking for experts at the Yuanying stage or higher. Having Yuanying stage experts as sparring partners was a luxury that was previously unimaginable. But now, with the opportunity at hand, Zhong Shan was willing to give his all in cultivation. He had clear goals: short-term, mid-term, and long-term.


    His long-term goal was immortality, to establish a heavenly dynasty and resist the might of the heavens, achieving the destiny of an immortal.


    His mid-term goal was to kill Prince Lietian to avenge his wife, Kui''er.


    His short-term goal was to strengthen the Dazun Dynasty and to retrieve his wife, Tian Linger, from the Dali Heavenly Dynasty.


    Achieving the Yuanying stage was necessary to qualify for these challenges. Currently at the secondyer of the Jindan stage, Zhong Shan was determined to reach the Yuanying stage as soon as possible.

 Chapter 176 - 176 Between attack and defense, a certain death situation

    <h4>Chapter 176: Between attack and defense, a certain death situation</h4>


    "In that case, how about having A Da as your sparring partner?" Princess Qianyou looked at Zhong Shan and asked.


    "Thank you, Princess," Zhong Shan immediately replied without hesitation.


    "A Da, for the next period of time, you''ll be practicing with Sir," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes, Princess," A Da responded respectfully.


    These days, A Da had developed a deep admiration for Zhong Shan due to witnessing his various tactics firsthand.


    On a floating ind north of the Twin City.


    Standing beside Gu Lin, Water Mirror frowned as Mobeili spoke, "My lord, Sir, I''ve already dispatched two individuals to make contact with Water Tianya''s camp."


    "How did it go? What did you instruct your men to do?" Gu Lin asked.


    "Just to gather information from their side," Mobeili replied.


    "Gathering information? Excellent! Let''s turn the tables and sow some confusion by feeding them false information," Gu Lin eximed excitedly, feeling rather clever with his strategy.


    However, Water Mirror shook his head silently. It seemed futile to dampen Gu Lin''s enthusiasm. Gathering information? What information? All the strategies employed by Mobeili were conceived by the three of them, and Mobeili wouldn''t disclose any ns unless necessary. There was nothing significant to leak at this stage.


    "Is there really no other n?" Water Mirror frowned.


    "I haven''t heard of any," Mobeili replied.


    "Not hearing about it doesn''t mean it doesn''t exist. They might not reveal their ns now, perhaps waiting for a crucial moment to catch us off guard," Water Mirror said thoughtfully.


    "In that case, what should we do, Sir?" Mobeili asked.


    "Without rity, we should observe and adapt. However, during the voting period, everything changes rapidly, and we can''t afford to wait passively. In that case, we should continue to mimic their actions. Even if they use your men for something, you can use theirs for simr purposes," Water Mirror suggested.


    "Yes, Sir," Mobeili immediately responded respectfully.


    In Zhong Shan''s courtyard.


    "Boom, boom, boom..."


    Zhong Shan swung his de fiercely at A Da. A Da countered with his fists, blocking the de Qi.


    "Roar!" Zhong Shan bellowed.


    Another fifteen-zhang-long de Qi struck fiercely at A Da. A Da''s fists intersected, pushing upward with force.


    "Boom~"


    The colliding fist Qi fiercely collided with the de Qi. Under the impact, the de Qi disintegratedpletely. At this moment, Zhong Shan revealed a sinister smile.


    "Boom~"


    A thunderous column descended from the sky just as the de Qi dissipated, striking fiercely at the top of A Da''s head. A Da''s eyes widened, and his body surged with Qi, forming a thick protective shield above his head. However, it seemed slightly slow, and although most of the lightning was blocked by the shield, some still struck A Da''s head directly.


    "Bang~"


    A Da''s hair exploded into a mess, a fierce look shing across his face as his Qi surged.


    "Roar~~~"


    A thunderous roar echoed, and Zhong Shan suddenly felt a phantom tiger rushing towards him fiercely.


    "Boom~~~"


    Despite Zhong Shan''s full defense, he was sent flying and crashed into arge tree, breaking it.


    "Puff~~~"


    Zhong Shan spat out a mouthful of blood, realizing he had overestimated his capabilities.


    "Sir, I''m sorry, it was just my instinctive reaction," A Da hurriedly ran over with concern written all over his face.


    "I''m fine, it was just an instinctive reaction, I understand. It''s not your fault!" Zhong Shan smiled wryly, wiping the blood from his mouth.


    "I apologize again, Sir," A Da said, still worried.


    "No sparring without getting hurt, what kind of sparring is that? It''s even better this way, don''t worry, I''m fine," Zhong Shan reassured him gently as he rose to his feet.


    "Thank you, Sir," A Da said promptly.


    "Well, go tidy up your hair," Zhong Shan chuckled.


    Feeling embarrassed about his exploded hairstyle, A Da bowed slightly to Zhong Shan before quickly flying away to fix it.


    "Sir, are you alright?" Princess Qianyou asked from nearby, standing by a stone table.


    "I''m fine, Princess. I didn''t pay attention just now," Zhong Shan walked over slowly.


    Princess Qianyou sat at the stone table, with A Er and Water Tianya standing behind her.


    "Your training is truly rigorous, Sir," Princess Qianyou handed Zhong Shan a cup of tea brewed for healing.


    "Thank you, Princess," Zhong Shan sat down and took a sip.


    With just one gulp, he felt much better from the injuries caused by A Da''s instinctive reaction.


    "No, A Da is at the peak of the Yuan Ying stage, yet he was still forced into a state of panic by Sir. And not just today, it''s happened more than once. Sir, you''re truly extraordinary," Princess Qianyou sincerely remarked.


    "Hehe, maybe I am indeed special," Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "Yes, Sir, you''re very special," Princess Qianyou smiled back.


    "Water Tianya, how''s the situation now with five days remaining?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Mobeili has four million votes, while I only have three million one hundred thousand. There''s a gap of nine hundred thousand votes," Water Tianya replied anxiously.


    "No worries, don''t we still have nearly three million votes left? And there are still five days," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Yes," Water Tianya nodded.


    "During these days, have the two individuals you bought from Mobeili been following my instructions?" Zhong Shan asked Water Tianya.


    "Yes, they''ve followed your instructionspletely. But, are their antics really useful for us?" Water Tianya worriedly inquired.


    "They may not be useful for us directly, but they''re definitely causing headaches for Water Mirror. He must be feeling overwhelmed during this time. Haha," Zhong Shanughed heartily.


    "Yes, he''s too smart for his own good. He overthinks every little thing," Water Tianya chuckled in agreement.


    "How are those people you''ve bought from them doing now?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "They''repletely under my control, just ''peacefully'' being bought over. As long as you give the order, they''ll leap into the fire," Water Tianya affirmed.


    "Good, that''s perfect. However, I''m not going to have them do anything right now. Instead, I''m preparing to reveal something," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Please go on, Sir," Water Tianya said earnestly.


    "Tell the elder brother of Mobeili to ambush me with Broken Gang Arrows on thest day of the election, the day I go to the Lord''s Manor," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Ambush? Ambush Mobeili?" Water Tianya asked in surprise.


    "No, ambush you!" Zhong Shan pointed at Water Tianya seriously.


    Startled by Zhong Shan''s gesture, Water Tianya''s hair stood on end as he stared at Zhong Shan with a worried expression.


    "Don''t worry, it''s just a pretend shot at you, it''ll definitely miss. Besides, with so many guards, it''s impossible to hit you anyway," Zhong Shan quickly reassured with a smile.


    Relieved, Water Tianya let out a long breath. Calming down, he immediately understood what Zhong Shan was getting at.


    "Sir, are you nning to frame Mobeili? Making everyone believe that Mobeili is trying to assassinate me for the election?" Water Tianya asked immediately.


    "No, that''s not it!" Water Tianya continued, puzzled.


    "What?" Zhong Shan looked at Water Tianya with a smile.


    "Sir, even though the elder brother of Mobeili has been bought by us, ording to what you said, he should still be loyal to Mobeili. How could he listen to us?" Water Tianya asked worriedly.


    Looking at Water Tianya, Zhong Shan smiled faintly. "He''ll definitely do as we say, and he''ll stand where I specify. Whether he actually shoots or not is not important."


    "Why?" Water Tianya asked, puzzled.


    "Because Water Mirror will instruct him to go, and your people, those who have been ''bought'', will also be invited to pretend to use the Broken Gang Arrows to shoot Mobeili. Your people will follow their instructions obediently," Zhong Shan exined confidently.


    "But Sir, why?" Water Tianya still didn''t quite understand.


    "Just do as I say, and you''ll understand whyter," Zhong Shan shook his head, clearly intending to keep the suspense.


    "Yes, Sir," Water Tianya could only respond with a puzzled expression.


    Then, Princess Qianyou dismissed Water Tianya.


    "Is Sir ready to make a move?" Princess Qianyou asked excitedly.


    "Yes, the trap has been set, we''re just waiting for Water Mirror to fall into it," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Does Sir have that much confidence?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Seventy percent confidence," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Why is Sir so confident?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Water Mirror''s abilities are beyond doubt, but this time, he made a mistake, or perhaps he did it intentionally," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Oh? Please borate," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Water Mirror has been defending all this time, leaving me to attack. However, prolonged defense will inevitably lead to failure," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Prolonged defense will lead to failure?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Yes, I can feel that Water Mirror''s abilities are not limited to just defense. However, this time, he hasn''t made any move at all, just kept defending. Perhaps he never intended to give his all for Mobeili. By constantly defending, he has indeed countered many obstacles I''ve set up, but at the same time, he''s narrowed the environment he controls more and more. Now, there''s no escape, it''ll be a sure-death situation, he can''t counter anymore. It''s toote to counter," Zhong Shan said confidently.

 Chapter 177: Lay out a conspiracy and let you break it

    <h4>Chapter 177: Lay out a conspiracy and let you break it</h4>


    "Sir, are you saying that Water Mirror has been forced by you to the point where he has no choice but to fall into the trap and has no way to turn back?" Princess Qianyou asked in amazement.


    "Hehe, I hope so," Zhong Shan smiled nomittally.


    "What did Sir ask Master Zichen for?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Master Zichen? I asked Master Zichen to make a special bow and arrow for me," Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh?" Princess Qianyou was puzzled.


    "Let''s go, follow me to take a look," Zhong Shan said.


    "Okay," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    At this moment, Ada had finished rearranging his hair and walked over, bowing respectfully to the princess and Zhong Shan before standing beside A''er.


    Led by Zhong Shan, the four quickly arrived at another courtyard on the floating ind.


    Master Zichen stood in the courtyard. Seeing the princess approaching, he immediately came forward to bow respectfully. "Greetings, Princess."


    "Mm," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Zhong Shan immediately said, "Master Zichen, are the bow and arrow ready?"


    "Not failing the mission," Master Zichen said confidently.


    Then, he went into the house and took out a box.


    Zhong Shan nodded at Master Zichen, who then left immediately. After all, there were some things that couldn''t be let known to others, it wouldn''t be good for oneself or others if they found out.


    Under everyone''s expectant gaze, the box was opened, revealing a long bow engraved with countless runes inside, as well as two arrows with numerous protruding runes. Both the bow and arrows were the same sky blue color, part of a matched set.


    "A fifth-grade bow and arrows?" Princess Qianyou squinted her eyes.


    "Yes, fifth-grade bow and arrows. They can already break through thebined stage''s gang barrier, not to mention Water Tianya''s infant stage cultivation," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Does Sir really intend to use Water Tianya as a target for the arrow?" Princess Qianyou asked in confusion.


    "Princess, take a look, what''s the difference between these fifth-grade bow and arrows?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    Hearing what Zhong Shan said, Princess Qianyou picked up the bow and arrow. After inspecting it with her divine sense for a while, her eyes widened. "This arrow..."


    "Hehe, yes, one arrow is real, while the other arrow is fake. It''s not even a fifth-grade arrow, at most it''s a third-grade arrow, it can''t break through Water Tianya''s gang barrier at all. But others can''t tell, it looks exactly the same as a normal fifth-grade arrow. Moreover, as long as Water Tianya intentionally weakens the power of the gang barrier, with his cultivation level, he can even change the trajectory of the arrow in a short period of time, shooting it harmlessly into a non-vital area of his body or blocking the arrow," Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "Sir still wants Water Tianya to be shot? To create a great tragedy for Mobeili? To arouse public outrage throughout the city and increase the votes?" Princess Qianyou eximed in delight.


    "Princess is truly brilliant, you understand immediately," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "But, Mobeili''s elder brother, will he shoot this arrow?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "He won''t shoot, and he doesn''t need to shoot. It will be Ada who shoots," Zhong Shan said with great confidence.


    "Me?" Ada eximed in surprise.


    "Yes, I''ve seen Ada''s archery skills these days. It couldn''t be better to have Ada shoot," Zhong Shan said with absolute certainty.


    "But, what about Mobeili''s elder brother?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "This bow is for Mobeili''s elder brother," Zhong Shan said as he gently took the bow.


    "The bow? What''s special about this bow?" Princess Qianyou asked, clearly not seeing it before.


    "Princess, take a closer look. See where the problem lies with this bow," Zhong Shan smiled.


    Although she didn''t notice anything special before, Zhong Shan''s tone indicated that there must be something wrong with the bow, just like the arrows. What could be the problem?


    Princess Qianyou pulled the bowstring, and instantly, the long bow was filled with blue energy, even the bowstring seemed to be gathering arge amount of energy.


    There was nothing wrong, it was definitely a fifth-grade strong bow. Princess Qianyou frowned slightly and looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Princess, try storing it in your storage bracelet," Zhong Shan smiled.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Princess Qianyou reached out, but the long bow remained in her hand. It didn''t go in?


    "Treasure spirit? No, this is only a fifth-grade bow, there is no treasure spirit. But why? Sir, did you imnt a spirit into the bow?" Princess Qianyou asked in astonishment.


    "Haha, yes, thanks to Master Zichen, a Frost Silkworm has been sealed inside this bow and put to sleep for a thousand days. Also, because the long bow isplexly refined, an array isting divine sense has been set up around the Frost Silkworm. Even if one knows about the existence of divine sense, they won''t care too much about that part," Zhong Shan said with great confidence.


    "In this way, Mobeili''s elder brother can only keep holding this bow in his hand and not store it in his storage bracelet, watching ''himself'' shoot Water Tianya in front of thousands of people?" Princess Qianyou eximed excitedly.


    "Yes, over these days, in order to buy him, he has already received a lot of benefits for no reason. It''s time to spit it out," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "But sir, how am I supposed to shoot? There are cultivators all over the city. Once the arrow is shot, all eyes will turn to the direction of the arrow, and everyone will look at me. Mobeili''s elder brother will definitely not let me stand beside him to shoot. Even if I''m near him, he will sense it and definitely avoid it. Won''t I be digging my own grave with one arrow?" Ada worried.


    "Hehe, Ada, rest assured, since I''ve thought of this method, naturally, I have a way to solve it. It''s just a matter of choosing our location. I guarantee that after you shoot, no one will look at you, everyone will look at Mobeili''s elder brother," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Yes, sir," Ada could only nod.


    If it wasn''t for Zhong Shan''s powerful wisdom in these days, Ada wouldn''t believe it. There were only cultivators in the city, not like the ordinary realm where there were people without spiritual power. How could no one look at me after I shoot an arrow? Would they just ignore me?


    "Then, Qianyou will just watch the show?" Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Princess will just watch," Zhong Shan smiled��


    In a hall on a floating ind north of the Peerless City.


    Inside the hall where Gu Lin was located, Water Mirror lightly shook his feather fan, frowning in contemtion.


    "Has Water Tianya gone mad? He asked your elder brother to shoot him?" Gu Lin looked at Mobeili with surprise.


    "Yes, that''s what my elder brother said," Mobeili frowned.


    Water Mirror furrowed his brows in thought, his expression tense.


    "Water Mirror, what is Water Tianya thinking?" Gu Lin asked.


    "On thest day, he ns to create a false impression that Mobeili is assassinating him for votes, making everyone in the city despise Mobeili and turn the tide," Water Mirror immediately understood.


    "Am I supposed to assassinate him? The overall situation is already set. Any discerning person can see that I will win. Why would I need to assassinate Water Tianya? Hmph, this Water Tianya is bing more shameless," Mobeili said.


    Looking at Mobeili, Water Mirror asked, "What does Mobeili n to do?"


    "Of course, my elder brother will tell me not to pay attention to them," Mobeili said immediately.


    "However, won''t Water Tianya find someone else? Won''t he find other key figures from your side? Once someone falsely shoots Water Tianya, at that moment, regardless of the details, everyone will know that your people tried to kill Water Tianya," Water Mirror said.


    "What should we do then?" Mobeili immediately asked.


    "Yes, Water Mirror, you must not lose. I''ve been holding back from seeing Qianyou for so long just for this victory. We can''t afford any mistakes at this critical moment," Gu Lin said immediately.


    "Let your elder brother go, but pay attention to one word," Water Mirror said.


    "Please speak, sir," Mobeili said respectfully.


    "The word is ''dy''. It''s thest day. On that final day, your elder brother should do his best to follow their arrangements, but when the timees, he absolutely must not shoot. Let them use your elder brother, and let your elder brother cooperate fully but not take any real action," Water Mirror said.


    "Yes, sir. As long as we dy past thatst day, the overall situation will be set, and there will be no chance for them," Mobeili smiled.


    "Well, since they are doing this, you should also have your purchased individuals use arrows to falsely shoot you," Water Mirror said.


    "Will they agree?" Mobeili asked doubtfully.


    "They probably won''t. Since they want to put on a show, let them go all the way. Let their people also shoot you, and unfortunately, you won''t be able to buy any more of their people in such a short time," Water Mirror frowned.


    "Sir, I''ll go do it right away," Mobeili said.


    "Wait, it''s definitely not going to be that simple for the other side. Knowing that your elder brother won''t shoot, why would they still send him?" Water Mirror shook his feather fan as he walked around the hall.


    After a few steps, Water Mirror stopped and said, "I think Water Tianya will definitely have other conspiracies by then, but we don''t know what they are yet. Tell your elder brother to be more vignt and report back at any time."


    "Yes," Mobeili took a deep breath, obviously still very worried.


    "Also, since we can''t find anyone, you should find someone with an absolutely unfamiliar face. Then, wait for the right opportunity to act," Water Mirror said.


    "Wait for the right opportunity? What for?" Gu Lin asked.


    "Find someone with an unfamiliar face, wait for the right opportunity, and rece the person whom Mobeili bought. Just in case, let that stranger falsely shoot Mobeili. We can''t let them take all the credit," Water Mirror squinted.


    "Yes, with this extrayer of insurance, even if Water Tianya ys another trick, we can handle it," Mobeili eximed excitedly.


    "Good," Water Mirror nodded. He had a bad feeling about this.


    "Let''s go. I''ll go with you to meet your purchased individuals and see how Qianyou is doing," Gu Lin said immediately.


    "Yes," Mobeili responded.


    Then, the two of them immediately left the hall, leaving Water Mirror alone in the hall to ponder.


    What was that person, the one behind Princess Qianyou, really up to? Falsely shooting Water Tianya to incite public outrage was indeed a good strategy, but why did he tell me about it? This way, couldn''t I just counteract it? What''s the real motive behind this? Is he dering war on me? Is he really that confident? No, something is wrong here.

 Chapter 178: Who Is More Shameless!

    <h4>Chapter 178: Who Is More Shameless!</h4>


    On the final day of the election, it was the most crucial day for Wushuang City, the day when the city lord would be determined. Would it be Mobeili or Water Tianya?


    On this day, almost all the citizens put aside everything else and gathered to await the final result. Water Tianya emphasized the "war crisis" and urged everyone to pay attention to the Great Yu Dynasty, warning that war could break out at any moment. On the other hand, Mobeili promoted the "era of peace," asserting that the peace treaty had been signed, and there would be no more wars as long as he was in charge.


    In the city, two massive jade discs, one in the north and one in the south, disyed the vote counts for the two candidates:


    Mobeili: 4.3 million votes. Water Tianya: 3.4 million votes.


    With a difference of 900,000 votes and a total of 10 million votes in the city, once Mobeili gained another 700,000 votes and surpassed 5 million, the oue would be certain because votes could not be changed.


    Every resident of the city, almost like electing a sect master in a small sect, awaited the result with utmost solemnity, setting aside all their daily affairs.


    On this day, all four main city gates were closed, waiting quietly for the result to be announced.


    In the South City Hall...


    Outside, arge number of fierce tigers, huge tigers, with the tallest being forty zhang (approximately 120 meters) high, and many thirty zhang tall tigers, in red, blue, ck, and purple colors, gathered. Thergest one, a forty-zhang tall ck tiger, indicated that it had reached the Nascent Soul stage.


    These were the national beasts of the Great Luo Dynasty��tigers.


    In the South City Hall and the North City Hall, fifty tigers were stationed in each department, waiting for members of the respective cities to ride on their heads, circle around Wushuang City quickly, and then enter the central floating ind��the city lord''s mansion��to await the final result.


    Inside a room in the South City Hall, soundproof barriers were set up so that no sound could escape.


    Zhongshan looked at Water Tianya and said with a smile, "Mr. Water, sess or failure hinges on this one move. Don''t mess it up."


    "Rest assured, I understand," Water Tianya nodded.


    "What about those propagandists?" Zhongshan asked.


    "They''ve been quite radical even before this crucial moment. Naturally, they''ll be even more frantic today," Water Tianya said confidently.


    "Good, remember, Princess and I won''t show up anymore. Just follow my instructions for the rest. Have you briefed your son, Water Wuheng, Second Brother, as I instructed?" Zhongshan asked again.


    "He recites those words every day, and I check them myself every day. There won''t be any mistakes. After today, regardless of sess or failure, I, Water Tianya, am grateful for the hard work of Mr. Zhongshan and the Princess during these days," Water Tianya bowed respectfully.


    "Thank me for what? It''s all Mr. Zhongshan''s doing," Princess Qianyou immediately said.


    "No, it''s not about sess or failure, it''s about winning. Remember, you will win. You must maintain a good state," Zhongshan reiterated.


    "Yes, I will win. I will definitely be the city lord," Water Tianya said immediately.


    "Good, go ahead. Let''s give the entire Wushuang City a storm of tears and clouds," Zhongshan said with a smile.


    "Understood." Water Tianya bowed respectfully before immediately turning to leave the room.


    Outside, Water Wuheng and many colleagues of Water Tianya were patiently waiting.


    "Let''s go, mount the tigers," Water Tianya said.


    "Yes," everyone replied.


    Then, a group of people quickly stepped onto the tiger heads. Water Tianya stood on the head of the forty-zhang tall tiger, while other officials and Water Wuheng stood on the heads of thirty-zhang tall tigers.


    In the South City Hall, Zhongshan looked at Princess Qianyou and Ah Er. "Princess, let''s go to the city lord''s mansion and wait for good news."


    "Please, Mr. Zhongshan," the princess smiled.


    Meanwhile, in the North City Hall, within a quiet hall...


    "Mobeili, brace yourself. It''s yourst chance for propaganda, and it''s up to you," Water Mirror said.


    "Yes," Mobeili replied.


    "Water Mirror, let''s go to the city lord''s mansion together. It''s been a long time since I''ve seen Qianyou," Gelin said.


    "No, Prince, you go by yourself. I''ll stay in the North City Hall to guard against any changes. I''lle over when both Mobeili and Water Tianya arrive at the city lord''s mansion," Water Mirror said.


    "Alright, make sure toe over soon. I''ll go ahead then. Mobeili, you should start your journey too," Gelin said.


    "Yes," Mobeili immediately agreed.


    "I''ve already given orders. Everyone will listen to yourmands. I take my leave now," Mobeili said.


    "Alright," Water Mirror nodded.


    Then, Mobeili left the hall and stood on the head of a forty-zhang tall tiger. The apanying officials stood on the heads of thirty-zhang tall tigers. As Mobeili toured Wushuang City, Gelin was escorted directly to the city lord''s mansion at the center of Wushuang City.


    Water Mirror sat at the head of the hall, with a cup of tea in front of him, looking ahead as if contemting something, waiting for any signs of early action.


    Water Tianya stood on the head of the big tiger, and the tiger walked steadily. Most people were concentrated in the seventy-twomercial districts. Water Tianya''s route was to pass through these districts. The tiger moved quickly between the districts, only slowing down when entering the streets of each district.


    Entering the firstmercial district, the street was filled with noise. Following Zhongshan''s instructions, numerous small gs were quickly erected along the street.


    "Support Water Tianya, protect our Wushuang City!"


    "Support Water Tianya, protect our Wushuang City!"


    Someone suddenly shouted, and then a dozen people followed suit. Gradually, more and more people joined in. Although many were just having fun, their shouts quickly influenced others. At least among those who were still wavering between Water Tianya and Mobeili, many quickly chose Water Tianya.


    Although the number of people shouting was less than one percent of the entiremercial district, even if only a thousand people were shouting, it was enough to stand out and increase Water Tianya''s momentum.


    As Water Tianya passed by, the scene was lively, and the street was bustling with noise. Water Tianya nodded to his "supporters," and those pre-arranged "supporters" suddenly became very cooperative, shouting even louder and further enhancing the atmosphere, infecting more people.


    In the North City Hall...


    "Sir, it''s bad news! That Water Tianya is shameless! He instructed his subordinates in charge of propaganda to shout support for him in the streets. Now, onemercial district is extremely noisy, and the support for Water Tianya is rapidly increasing," Moyan Bing rushed into the hall, expressing his concern.


    "Hehe, indeed, shamelessness is invincible. Are you Mobeili''s son?" Water Mirror smiled.


    "Yes," Moyan Bing responded immediately.


    "No worries, there are still seventy-onemercial districts. Let your people do the same and keep shouting. Since they''re shameless, why bother pretending anymore? Go and see if your three times as many people can outshame Water Tianya''s propaganda team," Water Mirror said.


    Upon hearing Water Mirror''s words, Moyan Bing was speechless for a moment. The tone was just too direct. However, it was also a good thing. Let them be shameless. When my father bes the city lord, then we can reim our dignity.


    "Understood," Moyan Bing said before quickly leaving the hall.


    Sure enough, when passing through the secondmercial district, Mobeili hadn''t noticed anything at first. But suddenly, the streets were filled with noise, with continuous shouts of support for himself. Initially, Mobeili was excited, thinking he was genuinely popr. However, upon seeing his former subordinates leading others in the shouts, he understood what was happening.


    It was definitely orchestrated by Water Mirror. Although there was some disappointment in his heart, he still had to cooperate.


    Just like Water Tianya, Mobeili also began to be "well-received" in variousmercial districts.


    Among the cultivators, there were many discerning individuals. These people stood in eachmercial district, gaping as they watched the sudden poprity of the city lords.


    In the center of Wushuang City, on thergest floating ind, a red light enveloped the area. Numerous buildings stood within, guarded by arge number of soldiers. Today, this ce had be the most important forbidden area in Wushuang City��the City Lord''s Mansion.


    Later, the two city lords-elect would arrive topete. And on the floating ind, there were currently two individuals with the most distinguished status.


    In the center of the floating ind stood thergest pce, with a que reading "City Lord" hung above it.


    In front of the pce was a huge square, where nearly a hundred officials were standing. However, none of them dared to speak because standing before them, on the floating ind, was Princess Qianyou of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, nked by two men��Zhongshan and Ah Er.


    From the floating ind, Princess Qianyou could see the vote counts disyed on the jade steles in the distance.


    "Qianyou," not far away, came the joyful voice of Gelin.

 Chapter 179 - 179 The third plan, the tragic effect

    <h4>Chapter 179: The third n, the tragic effect</h4>


    Gu Lin quickly approached under the escort of several subordinates, his face filled with joy as he looked at Princess Qianyou.


    "Gu Lin, it''s been a while," Princess Qianyou nodded and smiled politely. She was adept at maintaining such formalities.


    "Yes, it''s been almost a year. During this time, Qianyou, you must have been racking your brains, and you''ve been giving Water Mirror quite a headache," Gu Lin said.


    "Oh? Water Mirror has been frowning every day?" Princess Qianyou''s eyes lit up with delight, and she nced at Zhongshan beside her.


    "Yes, especially five days ago. Water Mirror hasn''t rxed his brows at all. You''re impressive. But with the current vote count, as long as Mobeili gets another sixty or seventy thousand votes, he''ll win. Qianyou, this time, I''ve won. Sorry about that," Gu Lin said with a smug smile.


    "Is that so?" Princess Qianyou smiled.


    Seeing that Princess Qianyou didn''t show the anxious expression he expected, Gu Lin furrowed his brows, feeling a hint of unease in his heart. He then looked at the two individuals beside Princess Qianyou. Where were Ah Er and Ah Da? Was this person one of them?


    "It''s you," Gu Lin pointed at the group and eximed suddenly.


    "Zhongshan pays his respects to the young master," Zhongshan said respectfully to Gu Lin.


    "How dare you show up in front of me with such audacity!" Gu Lin suddenly became excited.


    "I am the princess''s guard," Zhongshan said humbly.


    "Guard? Hahaha, with your cultivation level, you''re still a guard? Moreover, you''ve reached the Foundation Establishment stage? And you dare to be Princess Qianyou''s guard? You..." Gu Lin eximed.


    "That''s enough," Princess Qianyou interrupted.


    "Huh?" Gu Lin was interrupted by Princess Qianyou, his eyes showing a hint of confusion as he looked at her.


    "Zhongshan is my guard. He was rmended by the Elder of the Seven Stars Pavilion and holds the position of a third-ranked guard. If you have any objections, you can directly address them to the Seven Stars Pavilion," Princess Qianyou said immediately.


    "Uh, Qianyou, I didn''t mean that. But this person''s cultivation level is too low. How can he be your guard? At the very least, he should be like Ah Da and Ah Er," Gu Lin said quickly.


    "Hmph, it''s none of your business. Who I choose as my guard is my decision, and no one can interfere," Princess Qianyou said firmly.


    "Fine, fine, I won''t say anything anymore. I know you''re upset. But the fact that Mobeili will be the city lord is irreversible. Don''t take your anger out on me," Gu Lin said.


    "Hmph," Princess Qianyou ignored Gu Lin and continued to look at the huge jade stele in the southern direction.


    Seeing that Princess Qianyou ignored him, Gu Lin could only give up. He then looked at Zhongshan behind Princess Qianyou, his eyes narrowing slightly, showing a hint of annoyance.


    Zhongshan stood straight, fulfilling his duties as a guard.


    Outside amercial district, numerous tall mountains stood, among them, there was a low mountain that seemed to have been cut in half. The top was extremely clean and smooth, standing out conspicuously. Surrounding this low mountain were numerous forests, with perpetual dampness and miasma. Even some highly skilled cultivators would not dare to enter.


    At the top of the clean and abrupt low mountain stood two individuals.


    One wore red clothes, clearly a member of Water Tianya''s propaganda team, dressed in a uniform. The other wore blue clothes and had a smile on his face.


    "Molei Wang, you are Mobeili''s cousin. Last time, you said Mobeili seized the treasure passed down to you by your ancestors, and you bear an irreconcble grudge against him. Now, it''s time for you to get revenge," the person in red said.


    "Rest assured, since Master Shui has given me so many spirit stones, I naturally have to help him. You''ll see when I make my move," Mo Leiwang nodded, a subtle smirk appearing at the corner of his mouth.


    "Alright, I''ll be at the entrance of thatmercial district soon. When Master Shui arrivester, you just need to shoot an arrow in that direction. After you''ve done that, you can leave," the person in red said.


    "Don''t worry," Mo Leiwang nodded.


    "Okay, here''s this fifth-grade bow and arrow for you. My task is alsoplete," the person in red said.


    "Okay," Mo Leiwang nodded, gently taking the sky-blue bow and arrow. One bow, one arrow.


    "Thank you," the person in red said.


    Mo Leiwang nodded, and the person in red quickly left, heading towards the exit of themercial district.


    Watching the person in red leave, Mo Leiwang smirked coldly. Did he really think he could be bought by Shui Tianya? He had been waiting for this moment. ording to his cousin''s instructions, he just needed to "drag" it out. When the time came, he wouldn''t shoot, and let''s see what Shui Tianya would do. Once his cousin became the city lord, Shui Tianya would mean nothing. Hmph, he wouldn''t even be worthy of shining his shoes.


    Mo Leiwang looked coldly at the distant figure of the person in red.


    The person in red had already reached the entrance of themercial district and stopped there, waving at him as if giving him confidence. Mo Leiwang nodded to the person in ck, reassuring him, but inwardly, he sneered.


    Holding the fifth-grade bow and arrow, Mo Leiwang looked at them again. Shui Tianya was really generous. Wasn''t he afraid that he would actually shoot him dead with an arrow?


    As he thought about it, Mo Leiwang''s expression tightened, remembering what his cousin had instructed. Were there any hidden people nearby?


    He released his spiritual sense, quickly covering the nearby mountains. Fortunately, there was no one as his cousin had feared. There was not even a single person around. Only some small animals were at the foot of the mountain, and there wasn''t even a living creature in the miasma forest behind. It was pitch ck.


    Mo Leiwang gripped the bow and arrow, a slight smile of satisfaction appearing at the corner of his mouth. Now all he could do was wait. When Shui Tianya passed through here, he would do nothing. When Shui Tianya walked past, he would have achieved a great aplishment.


    When Shui Tianya reached the tenthmercial district, the votes from the north and south were disyed.


    Mobeili: 4.4 million votes. Shui Tianya: 3.5 million votes.


    A difference of 900,000 votes. Shui Tianya couldn''t help but feel a bit uneasy. Even though he had Zhongshan''s assurance, he couldn''t help but worry. But worry aside, he couldn''t show it on his face.


    He had been smiling all the way until this tenthmercial district. Shui Tianya''s pupils couldn''t help but contract slightly. His right hand continued to wave to his "supporters," but his left hand slightly tightened, showing a hint of nervousness. This was it.


    Not only Shui Tianya, but also Shui Wuren and a dozen other officials were slightly nervous at this moment. Because, as the master said, sess or failure depended on this moment.


    Arriving here, Shui Tianya seemed to give a signal to the ck tiger beneath his feet, slowing down its pace. Although he could have already patrolled through thismercial district earlier, this time, he took twice as long as before.


    Simrly, at this point, those who supported Shui Tianya seemed to be even more frenzied. They shouted loudly while following the tigers, and they also encouraged some bystanders to join in the celebration.


    "Support Master Shui, protect Wushuang City!"


    Together, they cheered for Shui Tianya as they headed towards the exit.


    When Shui Wuren reached this point, he immediately exchanged nces with several officials standing on the heads of the tigers.


    Shui Tianya walked at the forefront, and the formation of the tiger team behind him slowly changed. The dozen or so officials who knew about this n closely followed behind Shui Tianya and surrounded him, while those who were unclear about the situation were pushed to the back.


    Finally, as Shui Tianya reached the entrance, nearly ten thousandmoners followed closely behind, in addition to the hundreds of "supporters."


    When they reached the entrance, it was almost time. Most of themoners stood at the edge of the entrance, watching as Shui Tianya slowly departed.


    Only fiftyrge tigers remained at the front, and the next step was to run through this stretch of road and reach the nextmercial district.


    Not far away, Mo Leiwang on the mountain saw Shui Tianya approaching, and a satisfied smile appeared on his face.


    His task wasplete. He had dyed it until the very end, dragging it out until Shui Tianya had no time to choose another person to shoot the arrow.


    With a satisfied smile, Mo Leiwang gave a disdainful snort towards the person in red who had signaled to him from afar. Then, he flipped his hand.


    The arrow disappeared, but the bow remained in his hand?


    Huh? Mo Leiwang, feeling incredulous, tried to put the arrow back into his storage bracelet, but the same thing happened again��the bow wouldn''t fit in? What was going on?


    A strange feeling washed over Mo Leiwang, making him suddenly realize that something was wrong. His entire body broke out in a cold sweat. He had been set up!


    He had to leave quickly. Although he didn''t know what went wrong, Mo Leiwang instinctively knew he had fallen into a trap.


    Just as Mo Leiwang leaped into action, a blue stream of light suddenly shot from behind him, aiming straight at Shui Tianya''s head on top of the tiger.


    Too fast! In the blink of an eye, Mo Leiwang didn''t even have time to react. Under the gaze of the crowd, a rapid stream of light shot from Mo Leiwang''s shoulder, directly towards Shui Tianya below. In an instant, it reached Shui Tianya.


    It was eerie, too eerie. Instinctively, Mo Leiwang looked behind him, but there was nothing behind him except for the miasma forest. His spiritual sense couldn''t detect anyone.


    "Protect the Master~~~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, there was a thunderous cry from therge tiger behind. Everyone rushed towards Shui Tianya at the front, but it was toote. The stream of light was too fast. In an instant, it pierced through Shui Tianya''s protective energy shield, and an arrow prated his chest.


    "Pffft~~~~~~~~~~"


    Shui Tianya''s face still bore a smile as he bid farewell to the crowd. His right hand was still in the waving position. However, he had no time to react to the sudden stream of light. In just an instant, a mouthful of blood sprayed out, and a sky-blue arrow pierced his chest.


    Time seemed to freeze. All the farewell cheers abruptly stopped. It was as if everything in the world hade to a halt in that moment.


    It wasn''t until a sudden and anxious voice came from the air: "It wasn''t me who shot the arrow!" that the moment broke.

 Chapter 180 - 180 This is our root!

    <h4>Chapter 180: This is our root!</h4>


    Of course, it wasn''t Mo Leiwang who shot the arrow. The specially made sky-blue arrow was still firmly in Mo Leiwang''s hand.


    However, the arrow that struck Shui Tianya was indeed identical to the one in Mo Leiwang''s hand. At least, the style was exactly the same. It was the arrow shot by Ada from behind Mo Leiwang in the miasma forest.


    Ada''s archery skills were extremely urate. The reason Mo Leiwang hadn''t noticed him earlier was that Zhongshan had lent him a treasure, the Mist-Shrouded God-Sensing Array, which could deceive spiritual senses, making it impossible for Mo Leiwang to detect Ada.


    At the moment the arrow was shot towards Shui Tianya, Shui Tianya was waving to the nearly ten thousand people bidding farewell behind him. Although it seemed he was focused on the rear, his attention was actually on his side, and his spiritual sense had long been released without any ck.


    Detecting Mo Leiwang in the distance, Shui Tianya''s heart tightened as he anticipated the long-awaited arrow suddenly being shot.


    In the blink of an eye, it arrived in front of him.


    This arrow could only harm those at the Golden Core stage. Its speed was slightly faster due to the strong bow, but could it be faster than Shui Tianya''s Nascent Soul stage spiritual sense?


    Adjusting his body slightly in the direction of the arrow, Shui Tianya allowed it to pass through him without causing harm, while simultaneously covering his body with mana to protect himself. There was absolutely no danger.


    "Pfft."


    The arrow pierced through the deliberately weakened protective energy shield, but its force had already been greatly reduced. However, it still followed Shui Tianya''s design, piercing through his body directly.


    "Pffft~~~~~~~~~~"


    A blood bag he had already bitten into burst in his mouth. Shui Tianya''s face bore a trace of sorrowful smile as he was hit, coughing up blood, and slowly falling down.


    "Protect the Master~~~~~~~~"


    The cry came from behind.


    "Dad~~~~~~~~~~"


    Shui Wuheng also cried out in pain, leaping onto the tiger Shui Tianya was standing on and embracing him as he began to fall.


    "Capture the assassin~~~~~~~~"


    An official suddenly shouted.


    "It wasn''t me who shot the arrow!" Mo Leiwang shouted from midair.


    But who would believe that there was absolutely no one there except him? Who else but him had a long arrow identical to the one in Shui Tianya''s chest? At this moment, it seemed like a well-rehearsed performance. Dozens of experts quickly flew up and surrounded Mo Leiwang, their eyes red with rage, as if they were about to kill him at any moment.


    "Drop your weapons and surrender!" shouted an official.


    Then, from somewhere, dozens of people holding broken energy arrows suddenly appeared, all pulling their bows and aiming at Mo Leiwang.


    Faced with this scene, what else could Mo Leiwang do? He could only surrender. He hoped that his cousin would win, and then it wouldn''t be difficult for him to be saved. After all, he was truly innocent.


    "I didn''t shoot the arrow! I didn''t!" Mo Leiwang shouted as he threw down his bow. Mo Leiwang slowlynded, but dozens of bows remained drawn, aimed at him until he was subdued.


    At the same time, on the tiger''s back, Shui Wuheng''s eyes were bloodshot, as if he had gone mad.


    "Hurry, take my dad back and ask for help from the City Dan''s people to save him, quickly!" Shui Wuheng shouted desperately.


    The giant ck tiger seemed to understand the situation and quickly headed towards the iing direction, towards the South City''s allies.


    The environment in the area became extremely chaotic. After the tigers left, the city defense that had restrained Mo Leiwang suddenly turned into a protection for him. Supporters of Shui Tianya rushed forward, swords flying, as if they wanted to tear Mo Leiwang apart.


    What was once a city defense against Mo Leiwang suddenly turned into a defense protecting him.


    Hundreds of swords flew through the air, and the atmosphere was tense.


    "Kill him! He killed Master Shui Tianya!"


    "He is Mo Leiwang, the cousin of Mo Baili!"


    "Mo Baili stabbed Master Shui Tianya to gain votes. Kill him!"


    ... Under the calls of these supporters, the crowd became excited, shouting loudly. Mo Leiwang could only shrink back, his face full of fear.


    The sudden scene was like a hair''s breadth away from happening. For some reason, someone recorded it with a memory crystal.


    The memory crystal was quickly copied and distributed to variousmercial districts. Countless people began to watch the thrilling scene.


    The whole city of Wushuang was in an uproar, and even on the other side, when Mo Baili was touring on a tiger, the shouts suddenly decreased, leaving only his supporters.


    In the Northern City Alliance, Mr. Shuijing sat in the hall, his brows furrowing slightly as he listened to the cries from outside, feeling a sense of unease.


    "Oh no, oh no, sir, sir, Mo Leiwang used a fifth-grade bow and arrow to shoot Shui Tianya dead," Mo Yanbing rushed in from outside, his face full of fear.


    "Hmm." Mr. Shuijing suddenly stood up.


    "What did you say?" Mr. Shuijing widened his eyes in surprise.


    "Sir, this is a memory crystal. It has spread throughout Wushuang City. I don''t know how it spread so quickly. It happened just an hour ago. Now, there are memory crystals everywhere in Wushuang City," Mo Yanbing said immediately.


    Mr. Shuijing grabbed it and, with a release of his true energy, carefully examined it.


    As he watched the scene inside, Mr. Shuijing suddenly narrowed his eyes because he noticed something unusual. The arrow speed wasn''t as fast as a fifth-grade arrow should be, and even if Shui Tianya waved his hand, he shouldn''t have had no reaction, allowing the arrow to prate his body. Also, why was his protective energy shield so weakened?


    After viewing everything, Mr. Shuijing suddenly closed his eyes and took a deep breath, sighing heavily.


    "Sir, is Shui Tianya dead? Does that mean my father won?" Mo Yanbing suddenly thought of something, and his previous fear turned into excitement.


    "Shui Tianya isn''t dead; he''s perfectly fine. However, your father has been thoroughly defeated this time," Mr. Shuijing said with a sigh.


    "Sir, do you think Shui Tianya did it on purpose? Was he pretending? Fooling the entire city of Wushuang?" Mo Yanbing''s face showed worry again.


    "Yes, he lost, lost catastrophically," Mr. Shuijing sighed lightly.


    "Sir, then, we also bribed someone before, let him shoot my dad," Mo Yanbing immediately eximed.


    "It''s useless now. Even if you kill your father, it''s impossible to win again," Shui Jing Xiansheng said as he opened his eyes.


    "No, no, why, why?" Mo Yanbing asked with a face full of fear.


    Shui Jing Xiansheng shook his head and walked out of the hall. His brows were no longer furrowed, and a rare smile appeared on his face, the smile of someone who had found a kindred spirit, a smile full of anticipation. With a step, he flew towards the city lord''s mansion in the city.


    "No, no, it can''t be, I must stop them," Mo Yanbing said coldly. But how to stop it?


    As Mo Yanbing was worrying, a sound suddenly came from outside. It was Shui Wuheng''s voice, using a magical tool to project his voice throughout the city, so everyone could hear him.


    "Everyone, I am Shui Wuheng, my father is Shui Tianya. My father was attacked, and now he drifts in and out of consciousness. I am speaking on his behalf. The fifth-grade Broken Shield Arrow, a fifth-grade arrow that can pierce the defenses of a powerful master, a blue arrow. We all saw that arrow, but it was too fast to stop. It broke through the shield, pierced the outer armor, then the inner armor, and went straight through my father''s chest. He fell unconscious immediately.


    At that moment, behind us were ten thousand people, all supporting my father. I was born in Wushuang City; I understand it. We''ve fought against the Dayu Dynasty for over a thousand years, with yearly wars that have killed countless people. Is my father''s concern wrong? The ten thousand people sending my father off are like him, loving Wushuang City and constantly worried about it. They support my father and wanted to save him, but the arrow was too fast.


    I don''t know where my father''s concern for Wushuang City went wrong. I only know that without our ancestors'' concerns, Wushuang City would have long been lost. Why, why do some people want to destroy this concern?


    The City Dan''s alchemists checked my father. The arrow is an ice-type arrow, freezing his vital core. Luckily, the alchemists treated him in time. Just a little more, just a little bit more, and... My father has toured tenmercial districts; sixty-two are left. He won''t have the chance to visit them. The alchemists said he must wake up by the hour of Hai tonight to recover fully. The remaining time means he can''t campaign anymore. He may lose the chance topete for city lord, but I know my father''s determination. Even if he has one breath left, even if he''s just a gate guard, he will protect Wushuang City. Because this ce is our root."


    After Shui Wuheng finished speaking, the entire city fell into silence.


    "Support Master Shui! Protect Wushuang City!" A voice called out from somewhere.


    "Support Master Shui! Protect Wushuang City!"


    ...

 Chapter 181: The Fourth Stratagem, Alarm Drums, City-Wide Panic

    <h4>Chapter 181: The Fourth Stratagem, rm Drums, City-Wide Panic</h4>


    "Support Lord Shui, defend Wushuang City!" "Support Lord Shui, defend Wushuang City!"


    Outside, the chants echoed through the seventy-twomercial districts. The voices were no longer just those of the hired supporters; in fact, their voices werepletely drowned out by the genuine support of the citizens.


    "Boom, boom, boom, boom!" Suddenly, a series of drumbeats sounded from the southern part of the city.


    Today was the city lord election, and Wushuang City''s four gates were closed. The rm would only sound if there was an urgent situation outside.


    As soon as the rm sounded, the entire Wushuang City fell silent. The seventy-twomercial districts quieted down, and everyone turned to look towards the south. An rm? Why now? Was it the army of the Dayu Dynasty?


    Everyone stared intently at the south, and many began to slowly rise into the air. Even in the no-flymercial districts, people took to the skies.


    While everyone was holding their breath, the drumbeats stopped. Then, the voice of a city guard was heard.


    "The south gate was attacked by an unidentified beast due to no one being on guard outside. It was a lone beast. The beast has now left; there is no need to worry."


    Hearing this, everyone sighed in relief. It turned out to be just a small beast and not the army of the Dayu Dynasty.


    But if it was just a small beast this time, what about next time? What if it hadn''t been a beast but the army of the Dayu Dynasty? Everyone''s heart sank.


    "Support Lord Shui, defend Wushuang City!" Someone shouted again.


    "Support Lord Shui, defend Wushuang City!"


    The chanting resumed, even louder and more fervent after the rm.


    The citizens of Wushuang City were boiling with fervor, shouting their support for Lord Shui.


    "Support Lord Mo!" A sudden voice shouted from the crowd.


    This was one of Mo Baili''s campaigners, a hired supporter.


    "Bah!" Someone spat at him.


    "Boom, boom, boom..." Instantly, the area where that person stood was enveloped in smoke, filled with explosions. When the smoke cleared, the man was lying on the ground, covered in wounds, his clothes tattered, twitching and unable to get up.


    Mo Yanbing stood in a daze, listening to the chants outside, his face nk. Was there no way out?


    Simrly, Mo Baili, standing with his officials on therge tiger, watched the citizens chanting "Support Lord Shui, defend Wushuang City!" Seeing the cold res from the masses, Mo Baili knew that the road ahead was blocked. His heart turned cold, and without a word, he rushed towards the city lord''s mansion. Campaigning was hopeless now.


    In the southern district, inside a secret room of the Southern City Department.


    Shui Tianya had the arrow removed from his chest and applied some medicine. He looked refreshed. Shui Wuhen stood beside him, filled with excitement.


    "Father, how did I do?" Shui Wuhen asked.


    "No problem at all. With the strategist''s n, it''s hard for me not to be the city lord. You''ve done well, Wuhen," Shui Tianya replied.


    At this moment, a victorious smile appeared on Shui Tianya''s face. The fourth stratagem, the rm drums, had sessfully incited city-wide panic, turning the citizens'' anxiety about Wushuang City''s future into overwhelming support for him.


    "Thank you, Father. I just did what needed to be done," Shui Wuhen said modestly.


    "Wuhen, you did very well. Now we just need to wait for the results," Shui Tianya said, satisfied.


    "Yes, I understand," Shui Wuhen nodded.


    At this moment, both father and son felt a sense of certainty that the position of city lord was firmly within their grasp.


    "Yes, Father," Shui Wuhen responded promptly.


    "In the future, no matter the situation, never stand in opposition to your junior brother," Shui Tianya advised.


    "Huh?" Shui Wuhen asked, puzzled.


    "Your junior brother, Mr. Zhong Shan, is too formidable. No matter what stance he takes in the future, never stand against him," Shui Tianya reiterated.


    "Yes, Father," Shui Wuhen nodded in agreement.


    "Alright then, let''s wait. Since you said it''s at the hour of Hai, we''ll head to the city lord''s mansion then," Shui Tianya said with a smile.


    "Understood," Shui Wuhen replied.


    After A Da shot the arrow, chaos ensued. Taking advantage of the confusion, A Da quickly left the scene and headed straight for the city lord''s mansion.


    Upon arriving at the mansion, A Da presented his token and was allowed to enter directly, heading towards Princess Qianyou.


    Seeing A Da''s arrival, Princess Qianyou, Zhong Shan, and A Er all turned to him.


    A Da smiled, and the three let out a sigh of relief.


    At that moment, Shui Wuhen''s heartfelt speech echoed through the city, painting a picture of profound sorrow and despair.


    Even some officials in the square clenched their fists in response.


    "Shui Tianya was attacked?" Gu Lin eximed in surprise, then smiled.


    Seeing Gu Lin''s reaction, Zhong Shan was taken aback. This heir was indeed extraordinary. Was he actually happy? Did he think Shui Tianya could no longer campaign?


    Then, suddenly, the rm drums from the south. The rm came so suddenly and so timely that even some of the more timid officials showed fear. Had the Dayu Dynasty really torn up the agreement and attacked?


    When the city gate guards announced it was merely a beast, a sense of relief washed over the crowd, and Gu Lin also smiled.


    At that moment, chants began to rise throughout the city.


    "Support Lord Shui, defend Wushuang City!" "Support Lord Shui, defend Wushuang City!"


    The deafening chants, wave after wave, left Gu Lin momentarily stunned.


    "What''s going on? What''s happening?" Gu Lin shouted.


    At the same time, on the jade wall to the south, the vote counts began to change rapidly.


    Shui Tianya''s votes surged like a breaking arrow, while Mo Baili''s votes crawled like a turtle. Of course, there were some discerning individuals in the city who did not believe it was merely a coincidence.


    "How can this be? How can this be?" Gu Lin eximed in shock.


    Princess Qianyou smiled slightly, nced at Zhong Shan, and sighed. Zhong Shan, meanwhile, merely closed his eyes and nodded gently. He was currently just a third-ss guard, not a strategist.


    "Shuijing, you''re here! Quickly, tell me, what''s going on? Why is the whole city chanting for Shui Tianya? Why are Shui Tianya''s votes increasing so fast?" Gu Lin shouted as Mr. Shuijing approached.


    Princess Qianyou immediately shifted her gaze to Mr. Shuijing as he walked slowly toward them.


    "Shuijing, what''s going on? Didn''t you say we were certain to win?" Gu Lin shouted again.


    "Your Highness, we''ve lost. Princess Qianyou has won," Mr. Shuijing said calmly, without a trace of regret on his face.


    "How can this be? How can this be? Mo Baili, you''re back too? Tell me, what''s going on?" Gu Lin shouted at the approaching Mo Baili, his face full of resentment.


    Upon being relieved, Mr. Shuijing walked over to Princess Qianyou.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou, Mr. Shuijing slightly bowed and said, "Greetings, Princess."


    "Mr. Shuijing, you''re too courteous," Princess Qianyou replied with a smile.


    "And this is? The one fromst time at Bamen Mountain...? Zhong Shan?" Mr. Shuijing immediately recognized Zhong Shan.


    "I am Zhong Shan, a third-ss guard. I didn''t expect Mr. Shuijing to remember someone as insignificant as me. It''s an honor," Zhong Shan responded with neither humility nor arrogance.


    "Insignificant? Haha, it should be me who feels honored. I am Shuijing," Mr. Shuijing replied, reintroducing himself.


    Zhong Shan nced at Mr. Shuijing and smiled faintly. It was not surprising that Mr. Shuijing could identify him as the mastermind behind Princess Qianyou. If he couldn''t, he wouldn''t be Mr. Shuijing. By reintroducing himself, Shuijing was showing a form of respect.


    "Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan responded.


    "Mr. Shuijing, Zhong Shan is merely my guard," Princess Qianyou said to Mr. Shuijing with a smile.


    Understanding her intent, Mr. Shuijing realized she was warning him not to reveal Zhong Shan''s true identity.


    "Yes, Zhong Shan is the Princess''s guard," Mr. Shuijing acknowledged with a smile.


    To others, their conversation might have seemed nonsensical, but among the three, the essential points weremunicated. This was a dialogue between intelligent people: brief and efficient, conveying vast amounts of information with just a few words.


    "This time, you''ve put me in quite a difficult position. This is my first defeat," Mr. Shuijing said candidly with a smile.


    "Mr. Shuijing, you are too modest. If you had exerted your full strength, we wouldn''t have won," Princess Qianyou replied with a smile.


    At this moment, Gu Lin approached from a distance with Mo Baili, his face darkened.


    "Qianyou, congrattions," Gu Lin said. His earlier arrogance had dissipated, reced by anger��anger at Mo Baili''s ipetence, at Mr. Shuijing''s failure, and at Shui Tianya''s unexpected victory.


    In Gu Lin''s eyes, everyone except Princess Qianyou was to me.


    Hearing Gu Lin''s congrattions, Princess Qianyou nced at the distant jade wall.


    Mo Baili: 4.45 million votes. Shui Tianya: 5.55 million votes.


    In an instant, Shui Tianya had gained 2.05 million votes, while Mo Baili had only increased by 50,000. A difference of 2 million votes, a forty-fold increase.


    A stunning reversal! Turning the tide!


    At that moment, the dramatic shift in votes astounded everyone. Shui Tianya had won, overwhelmingly.


    Princess Qianyou looked at the votes from afar with a slight excitement, listening to the enthusiastic cheers of the Wushuang City citizens. She was ted, not because of Shui Tianya''s victory, but because she had gained an extraordinary sage, someone who could turn the tide in adverse situations.


    Zhong Shan, however, stood solemnly in the background, unfazed. It was just an election; there was nothing to be proud of. His goal wasn''t to thrive in Da Luo Tianchao, but for his Dazang Dynasty to rise rapidly, for him to grow stronger. External things were mere illusions, fleeting as passing clouds. Zhong Shan''s mind was clear and focused.

 Chapter 182: Nalan Piao Xue

    <h4>Chapter 182: Nn Piao Xue</h4>


    At the hour of Hai, Shui Tianya arrived at the City Lord''s Mansion in an extremely ''weak'' state.


    Outside the mansion, everyone was waiting. Mo Baili looked at the assisted Shui Tianya with resentment but was powerless to change anything.


    The title of City Lord was slipping away from him, and this rootless and drifting Shui Tianya was about to takemand of Wushuang City, bing the new City Lord.


    From a fourth-rank official to a City Lord, Shui Tianya would be honored by the imperial court, blessed with fortune, and supported by the entire city. This umtion of fortune would allow his cultivation speed to be nearly four times faster than usual.


    Carrying his frail body, Shui Tianya approached the City Lord''s Mansion. From now on, this would be his residence and workce.


    "Shui Tianya pays respects to the Princess and the Shizi," Shui Tianya bowed respectfully to the two.


    Princess Qianyou smiled slightly, while Gu Lin wore a dark expression, nodding begrudgingly.


    From now on, besides the Princess and the Shizi, Shui Tianya would be the most powerful person in Wushuang City.


    After bowing to the two, Shui Tianya immediately moved to the front of the floating ind. Looking down at the mass of people below, he took a deep breath, feeling an immense sense of satisfaction.


    "Thank you all for your support. Once the official decree from the court arrives, I will take defending Wushuang City as my duty and repay your votes. I want everyone to know that your vote was the right choice!" Shui Tianya dered forcefully.


    There was an array at this spot that could broadcast his voice throughout the city, and everyone heard Shui Tianya''s passionate speech.


    "Lord Shui!"


    "Lord Shui!"


    ... Though cultivators are generally reserved, the calls from below were audible even from the City Lord''s Mansion.


    Shui Tianyaughed heartily, though some people couldn''t share his joy and looked at him with dark expressions.


    Shui Tianya was previously the most inconsequential and least influential among the four city factions. Without the intervention of Zhong Shan, Gu Lin, Princess Qianyou, and Mr. Shuijing, he would have been the least likely candidate to win the election.


    But now, Shui Tianya''s situation was different. This election''s oue was aplete shock to everyone. The East and West factions supported Mo Baili, meaning Shui Tianya was up against three factions. Despite this, he won resoundingly, leading by more than a million votes��a staggering number.


    This day was destined to be the most glorious in Shui Tianya''s life. At least in Zhong Shan''s eyes, Shui Tianya had reached the pinnacle of his life. With his level of wisdom, bing the City Lord was likely his limit. Climbing higher would be exceedingly difficult.


    A monthter.


    On the floating ind where Zhong Shan resided, Ah Da''s clothes were covered in dust, and Zhong Shan''s hair was disheveled with a trace of blood at the corner of his mouth. The two walked side by side.


    "Ah Da, with your high level of cultivation, can''t you take care of me a bit?" Zhong Shan said as they walked.


    "Sir''s fighting style is too strange. Ah Da was forced to struggle," Ah Da replied with an innocent look.


    "Never mind. It seems you still don''t have full control over your power. You need more practice," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Yes, sir," Ah Da smiled and nodded, understanding that Zhong Shan was not truly angry. However, every time he sparred with Zhong Shan, Ah Da felt a sense of frustration.


    Golden Core Stage 2? He himself was at the peak of Nascent Soul! Although he intentionally held back, did it always have to end with him in such a sorry state?


    Princess Qianyou sat at a stone table not far away, sipping tea. Ah Er and Shui Tianya stood beside her.


    "Ah Da, did you suffer another loss at the hands of Mr. Zhong?" Princess Qianyou asked with a smile.


    "Yes, Princess," Ah Da nodded, looking slightly embarrassed.


    Princess Qianyou chuckled softly.


    Zhong Shan picked up a cup of tea from the stone table and drank it directly. This tea could heal injuries and strengthen the body, more effective than ordinary elixirs, so Zhong Shan didn''t hesitate to drink it.


    "Thank you, Mr. Zhong," Shui Tianya stepped forward and said.


    "Oh? Has Lord Shui''s appointmente through?" Zhong Shan asked as he set down the tea cup.


    "Yes, it came this morning," Shui Tianya replied excitedly.


    "That''s good. In the future, I''ll need to rely on Lord Shui''s support," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Mr. Zhong, you''re joking. If you have any instructions, I will do my utmost," Shui Tianya responded immediately.


    "Good. I have onest piece of advice for you," Zhong Shan said.


    "I am all ears," Shui Tianya straightened up, knowing that advice from Zhong Shan was extremely valuable.


    "To control Wushuang City, you must firstmand the Wushuang Army," Zhong Shan advised.


    "Understood. I will take this to heart," Shui Tianya replied promptly.


    "Alright, Shui Tianya, you may go about your duties now," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes," Shui Tianya nodded and left immediately.


    "Mr. Zhong, how is your cultivation progressing?" Princess Qianyou asked, turning to Zhong Shan.


    "Another year has passed. I''m at the peak of the second level of the Golden Core stage now. With fortune on my side, the best cultivation environment, and Ah Da constantly pushing my potential, I still can''t break through just yet," Zhong Shan sighed.


    However, deep down, Zhong Shan was very satisfied. This was the Golden Core stage, not the Innate stage. In less than a year, he had reached the peak of the second level of the Golden Core stage and could break through at any time.


    "I will wait for you for another half year," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Oh? Wait for another half year? Is there something happening in half a year?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Along with Shui Tianya''s appointment, the Emperor also issued an imperial edict," Princess Qianyou said.


    "An edict?" Zhong Shan asked in confusion.


    "Yes. In two years, Emperor Nn Piao Xue of the Dayu Dynasty will celebrate his three-thousandth birthday. The Emperor has ordered Gu Lin and me to go and offer our congrattions," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "Nn Piao Xue? His three-thousandth birthday? By custom, shouldn''t the Princess not be the one to go?" Zhong Shan frowned, puzzled.


    "Yes. If it were just Nn Piao Xue''s birthday, I wouldn''t need to go. However, this time, Nn Piao Xue has arranged to duel with the ''Great Mighty Dragon Bodhisattva'' on his birthday. Both are ''mid-level'' beings and supreme experts. This is a rare and momentous battle, a pinnacle duel. Even if the Emperor hadn''t issued the edict, I would still want to witness it. It''s a once-in-a-millennium event," Princess Qianyou said excitedly.


    "The Great Mighty Dragon Bodhisattva? Nn Piao Xue? Two years from now?" Zhong Shan repeated, intrigued. He felt a surge of anticipation.


    A Bodhisattva and an Emperor? These were synonymous with supreme experts. Such a battle would certainly be a world-shaking event, attracting countless powerful individuals. Zhong Shan''s heart was filled with expectation.


    "In two years. Let''s wait for you for another half year. Whether or not you break through by then, you will apany me to the Dayu Dynasty," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded in agreement.


    Although Zhong Shan was esteemed as "Mr." by Princess Qianyou, he knew that her pride could not bepletely eroded by his strategies over the past year. Nor should it be, for she was a princess who, apart from the Emperor, could disregard all others. This journey to the Dayu Dynasty was no exception. Despite her informing him, Zhong Shan could tell from her tone that there was no room for negotiation. Decision-making did not require input from subordinates; he was merely a very useful subordinate.


    Zhong Shan understood this dynamic and did not challenge it. After all, he did not mind this identity. In fact, his role in orchestrating the election for the lord of Wushuang City had repaid the favor from Bamen Mountain entirely over the past year. Additionally, he suspected that the trip to the Dayu Dynasty involved more than just celebrating a birthday and watching a duel; there were likely other secret directives from the Emperor that Princess Qianyou hadn''t disclosed.


    For Zhong Shan, understanding too much could be dangerous. It was best to focus on cultivation and rapid improvement��this was the most fundamental task.


    <strong>Tiang Ind, Daxin Dynasty</strong>


    In a side hall:


    Zhong Shan, Gan Baobao, Wei Taizhong, Yinn, Zhong Zheng, and Lin Xiao, the most important people of the Daxin Dynasty, were gathered together.


    "Baobao, is the formation set?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Rest assured, no sound will escape," Gan Baobao replied confidently.


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded in satisfaction.


    "Uncle, why have you gathered us all here? Is there something important?" Yinn asked immediately.


    In private, Yinn addressed Zhong Shan as "Uncle," a habit she kept only in intimate settings like this where formalities were unnecessary.


    Looking at Yinn affectionately, Zhong Shan smiled and said, "Of course, otherwise, why the secrecy?"


    "What is it about?" Yinn pressed.


    "There are a few arrangements I want to discuss with you all," Zhong Shan said.


    "Arrangements?" The group looked at him intently.


    "First, regarding Zhong Zheng," Zhong Shan said, turning to him.


    "Father," Zhong Zheng stepped forward.


    "In your nning for the markets, select a group of people who are both loyal to Daxin and highly capable. Train them well. With the endless supply of elixirs from the Tai Dan Academy, they should reach the Golden Core stage as soon as possible," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Father, what are they for?" Zhong Zheng asked, puzzled.


    "Once they all reach the Golden Core stage, you will lead them to the Divine Land (Shenzhou) to establish a business association. Quickly gather resources from across the world to prepare for Daxin''s eventual move into the Divine Land," Zhong Shan exined seriously.


    "Yes, Father. I will not fail you," Zhong Zheng replied with determination.


    "Good. Remember, when selecting people, capability is secondary; loyalty is paramount. It would be best to choose steady individuals. Even if they are old and near death, save them, give them rejuvenating elixirs, and make them loyal to us," Zhong Shan emphasized.


    "Understood. I will remember," Zhong Zheng affirmed.

 Chapter 183: Departure

    <h4>Chapter 183: Departure</h4>


    Watching Zhong Zheng, Zhong Shan nodded in satisfaction. The others were also excited because Zhong Shan''s tone indicated that he was now focusing on the Divine Land of Shenzhou.


    "Zhong Zheng''s matters are his own, and you all have your own tasks. Now that the south of Tiang Ind has been unified, our next focus is on the north," Zhong Shan said.


    "Uncle, how do you n to deal with Tiang Ind?" Ying Lan asked.


    "To the north of Tiang Ind, there is the Yin Moon Dynasty and three major kingdoms, which are currently in a state of stalemate. You all should intensify your training. When our strength is sufficient, I will instigate a life-and-death battle among the four powers. In the end, the Da Ling Dynasty will mobilize to eradicate all forces on Tiang Ind," Zhong Shan said.


    "All forces? What about the numerous sects to the west of Tiang Ind?" Ying Lan asked.


    "Hehe, it would be best if they are willing to join the Da Ling Dynasty. If not, well, how can we allow others to sleep soundly beside our bed? We can only ask them to move elsewhere and develop in the Divine Land," Zhong Shanughed.


    Zhong Shan''s words were very casual, and everyone took them for granted. However, if these words were spread, it wouldn''t take long for many immortal sects and northern kingdoms to send people over.


    "Ying Lan, how is your Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation now? Tai Xuzi once trapped thousands of cultivators with it," Zhong Shan asked.


    "Uncle, rest assured. The current Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, as long as the cultivation does not exceed the Nascent Infant stage, anyone who enters will undoubtedly die," Ying Lan said confidently.


    "Good, in that case, you should intensify your cultivation. Aim to refine it until even Nascent Infant stage cultivators who enter will undoubtedly die," Zhong Shanughed.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Ying Lan''s face fell. "Uncle, what you''re asking is extremely difficult. The highest cultivation level in our formation is mine, and I''m only at the Innate stage. Without pure yang energy, I can''t perform the spells. Being able to kill Golden Core stage cultivators is already impressive, let alone Nascent Infant stage."


    "Haha, then you should intensify your training," Zhong Shanughed.


    "Lin Xiao, you should focus on training archers. Train more of them. In a few years, I want everyone in the Da Ling Dynasty to be equipped with Sky-Breaking Arrows. Under a rain of thousands of arrows, even Nascent Infant stage cultivators won''t escape," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes," Lin Xiao immediately nodded.


    "Tai Zhong, you should expedite the matters concerning the ''Heaven-Connecting Altar''," Zhong Shan said to Wei Tai Zhong.


    "Yes," Wei Tai Zhong nodded.


    The Heaven-Connecting Altar was a crucial item required in the Book of Creating a Heavenly Court for connecting to the Heavenly Mandate, and Zhong Shan naturally paid close attention to it.


    Then, Zhong Shan gave some instructions to everyone, and amidst Ying Lan''s reluctant gaze, he dismissed them all.


    In the main hall, only Zhong Shan and Gan Bao''er remained.


    "Dark Emperor," Zhong Shan called out.


    A ck shadow slowly emerged from the darkness.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," the Dark Emperor responded immediately.


    Looking at the Dark Emperor, Zhong Shan smiled slightly. "I didn''t expect you to reach the Golden Core stage so quickly, but that''s good. With your attainment of the Golden Core stage, I can rest assured to some extent, especially since you specialize in covert operations."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," the Dark Emperor said tersely.


    "It''s time. Send out the Shadow Guards to infiltrate the forces of the Yin Moon Dynasty and the three major kingdoms to the north. Provide me with thetest information at any time," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes," the Dark Emperor responded.


    "By the way, there''s one person I want you to pay more attention to, and be cautious around him," Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    "Who?" the Dark Emperor asked.


    "He''s called Mr. Corpse. When the Shadow Guards are sent to the Yin Moon Dynasty, they can hear about him. This person is extremely mysterious, not an ordinary cultivator," Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    "Not an ordinary cultivator?" the Dark Emperor asked with slight confusion.


    "That''s right. I''ve encountered this person a few times. Although he belongs to the Yin Moon Dynasty, it seems like he''s under some sort of contractual rtionship and not actually affiliated with them. Moreover, this person possesses a set of strange techniques, so you must be careful," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "What kind of technique?" the Dark Emperor asked.


    "Necromancy," Zhong Shan said.


    "Necromancy?" the Dark Emperor eximed in surprise.


    "Yes, he can control arge number of zombies. Some powerful zombies can not only fly but also burrow underground. When your people are watching him, be extra cautious underground," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes," the Dark Emperor immediately responded��


    Six monthster, on the Divine Land of Shenzhou, in the city of Unparalleled. The floating ind where Zhong Shan was located.


    Zhong Shan''s cultivation room.


    This cultivation room, entirely constructed from thunder stones, could adjust the intensity of thunder and lightning due to the array formation.


    At this moment, electricity shed and crackled in the room, giving it a terrifying appearance.


    Outside this cultivation room, Princess Qianyou wore a purple male attire, holding a folding fan, and frowned as she looked at the lightning shing inside. Behind her stood Ada and A''er, both with a hint of worry on their faces.


    "Princess," Ada frowned.


    "What''s wrong, Ada?" Princess Qianyou asked indifferently, looking at the lightning-filled room.


    "Is this how Master cultivates? Can he withstand such arge amount of electricity?" Ada asked worriedly.


    "Ordinary people naturally couldn''t, but Master is different. Master is a person of great perseverance. Otherwise, how do you think he managed to advance from the fourth level of Innate to the first level of Golden Core in just nine years on that remote Tiang Ind? Even geniuses can''t match that, but Master achieved it with his seemingly impossible determination," Princess Qianyou said, tapping the folding fan in her hand.


    "But, even a slight mistake could be fatal under this amount of lightning," Ada worriedly said.


    "Hehe, Master is smarter than you think. Aren''t we standing outside monitoring him? Would we let Master be struck by lightning? Besides, Master also has means of defense. It''s just that you don''t know about them," Princess Qianyou squinted her eyes as she looked at the lightning-filled room.


    "Yes, Ada is overthinking it," Ada immediately said.


    "Hehe, it seems that Ada is particrly concerned about Master," Princess Qianyou frowned and said.


    "Ada will always be loyal to the Princess. It''s just that during these days of serving as Master''s assistant, Master often gives me advice during his practice sessions, which has been very beneficial to me. So, I feel grateful," Ada immediately said.


    "Yes, Master has a very keen grasp of the overall situation and can maximize the use of his own power, naturally able to see the potential that you can''t unleash," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Just as Ada was about to say something else, the three suddenly became tense again, once again focusing their attention on the lightning-filled room.


    "Roar~~~"


    Suddenly, a long roar came from inside the lightning-filled room.


    Princess Qianyou smiled, turned her hand, and directly shot a blue light into the room.


    As soon as the blue light entered the room, the lightning around it disappeared abruptly, and the room returned to its previous state of ck stone. Shining runes appeared all around the room and quickly faded away.


    "Master has broken through to the third level of the Golden Core stage," Adaughed.


    "Pushing oneself to the limit brings about rebirth. It seems that war and cultivation are also rted," Princess Qianyou nodded and smiled��


    Ten dayster.


    The city of Unparalleled, eighty thousand miles to the south.


    On a white cloud stood seven people, followed closely by a group of individuals riding flying swords or white clouds. Among them were Zhong Shan, Princess Qianyou, Mr. Shuijing, Gulin, Ada, A''er, and over a hundred guards and officials.


    At this moment, over a hundred people embarked on the journey to the Great Imperial Dynasty.


    "Qianyou, why is Zhong Shan standing beside Ada and A''er?" Gulin looked displeased as he watched Zhong Shan, who was ridingfortably in a wind-driven carriage.


    "He is my guard, so naturally, he should be by my side," Princess Qianyou emphasized once again.


    "He''s only in the Golden Core stage. What qualifications does he have..." Gulin furrowed his brow again.


    "Gulin, let me say this again. My affairs don''t need your management, and I don''t need to report to you whom I choose to use," Princess Qianyou immediately interrupted.


    "Fine, I won''t say anymore." Gulin looked innocent, but when he nced at Zhong Shan, there was a hint of resentment in his eyes. Clearly, the frustration Princess Qianyou had ced on him was now directed towards Zhong Shan.


    Mr. Shuijing chuckled while shaking his feather fan, but Zhong Shan remained motionless, as steady as a mountain.


    "Alright, Gulin, you take your people to the capital of the Great Imperial Dynasty first. I''ll go back to the Jade Bnce Sect on the way," Princess Qianyou said after some thought.


    "You want to go back to the Jade Bnce Sect?" Gulin became anxious.


    "Yes, I need to ask an elder from the Seven Stars Hall to return. Since I''m passing by, I''ll take a look and see what''s going on. You guys go ahead with these officials," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "I''ll apany you. Let these officials go first, and then we can all head to the capital of the Great Imperial Dynasty together," Gulin immediately suggested.


    "No, the officials must not be dyed. Each realm has its own etiquette that must be upheld," Princess Qianyou shook her head.


    "Then let them go first, and Mr. Shuijing and I will apany you," Gulin insisted.


    Seeing Gulin, Princess Qianyou frowned slightly, then looked at Mr. Shuijing, and finally seemed to make a decision, nodding, "Alright, just don''t cause me any trouble."


    "Okay, I won''t. You can trust me," Gulin said excitedly.


    Then, in the sky, Princess Qianyou gave instructions to the group of people behind her. They all obeyed, nodding their heads, and proceeded to head to the capital of the Great Imperial Dynasty.


    Meanwhile, Princess Qianyou, Mr. Shuijing, Ada, A''er, Gulin, and Zhong Shan flew towards the southwest.


    Standing on the clouds, Zhong Shan furrowed his brow in thought. The guardian of the Jade Bnce Sect? There was also a guardian there? The Seven Stars Hall and the Seven League Sect, what kind of existence were they? Why were they so simr?

 Chapter 184: Yu Heng Sect

    <h4>Chapter 184: Yu Heng Sect</h4>


    The imperial capital of the Great Imperial Dynasty was quite far from their current location, requiring about a year and a half of travel. However, nobody was in a hurry, especially since the officials had already gone ahead to make preparations.


    "Qianyou, why did you join the Jade Bnce Sect? It''s just a small sect," Baiyunshan, Gulin, furrowed his brow and asked.


    "The Jade Bnce Sect is a small sect, but what about the Seven Stars Hall?" Princess Qianyou shook her head.


    "Even if the Seven Stars Hall is powerful, why establish seven small sects? My father said that you were made a princess partly because of this. But what rtionship does the Seven Stars Hall have with our Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty?" Gulin furrowed his brow and asked.


    "The rtionship? Haha, you should ask your father, the Great Xuan King. I don''t know," Princess Qianyou shook her head, evidently unwilling to discuss further.


    "Shuijing, what do you say?" Gulin, still puzzled, redirected the question.


    "What does the young master want me to say?" Mr. Shuijing smiled wryly.


    "You talk about the Seven Stars Hall. Why did they establish seven small sects and scatter them all over the ce? I''ve looked into it, and while these seven small sects vary in strength, they have no roots in their respective areas. Why scatter them so far?" Gulin asked.


    "Scattered all over the ce? Haha, Tian Shu, Tian Xuan, Tian Ji, Tian Quan, Yu Heng, Kai Yang, Yao Guang, these seven small sects are not scattered all over the ce," Mr. Shuijing said, shaking his fan.


    "Isn''t that scattering them all over the ce? Tiang Ind, the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, and other dynasties are not in the same area," Gulin disbelieved.


    Princess Qianyou smiled faintly on the side, sighing softly. It seemed that Mr. Shuijing had a broader perspective.


    "The positions of the Seven Stars Hall and the Seven League Sect were not randomly arranged. If the young master carefully examines the map, he will realize that the positions of the Seven League Sect correspond to the positions of the Big Dipper''s seven stars," Mr. Shuijing exined.


    "Mr. Shuijing has a far-reaching vision indeed," Princess Qianyou praised.


    "I dare not," Mr. Shuijing shook his head and smiled.


    "So, what happened at the Jade Bnce Sect this time?" Gulin furrowed his brow.


    "As for what happened, I don''t know yet. However, ording to the rules of the Jade Bnce Sect, summoning the sect guardian to invite an elder from the Seven Stars Hall indicates a significant crisis. If the sect master has passed away, they must invite at least two elders. This time, only one was summoned, which is quite intriguing. We''ll find out when we get there," Princess Qianyou said after some thought.


    Two monthster, after resting eight times along the way, Zhong Shan and his group finally arrived not far from the Jade Bnce Sect.


    "Woo~" A long wolf howl was heard from a considerable distance away.


    Zhong Shan squinted and saw numerous red wolves gathering in many valleys below. Wolves? Zhong Shan felt a strange sense of familiarity upon seeing them, but why were there so many wolves? They didn''t seem to be gathering as a wolf tribe, but rather converging from all directions.


    Seeing the wolves, Princess Qianyou narrowed her eyes and sped up on her white cloud.


    "Boom~" A series of fireballs shot into the sky, aimed directly at Zhong Shan''s group from below. The fire wolves seemed extremely agitated, continuously spewing fireballs, aiming at Zhong Shan and his people.


    However, the white cloud was too fast and agile, easily dodging the fireballs. They soared past a mountain range, but the further they went, the more wolves gathered, reminiscent of the scene when thousands of wolves stampeded in the Wolf Domain.


    However, the cultivation levels of the wolves here were not as high as those in the Wolf Domain. In the Wolf Domain, even the lowest cultivation level reached the Golden Core stage, but here, most of the wolves were in the Pre-Natal stage.


    As the white cloud flew deeper, more wolves appeared, until they arrived at a massive square.


    The square was asrge as the one in Kaiyang Sect, with a huge stele erected in the center.


    Yu Heng Sect!


    This was Yu Heng Sect, surrounded by arge number of red wolves, the tallest of which were nearly forty meters high, indicating they were at least in theter stages of the Yuan Infant Realm. Thergest wolf stood at the forefront, with many others behind it, all snarling and growling menacingly at Yu Heng Sect.


    Princess Qian You''s white cloud moved extremely fast and arrived at the defensive formation of Yu Heng Sect in an instant. By the time the wolves noticed the white cloud, it had already reached the defensive formation of Yu Heng Sect.


    "Whoosh... Whoosh... Whoosh..."


    The tallest wolf remained still, while the others opened their mouths andunched huge fireballs towards the direction of the white cloud.


    "Boom... Boom... Boom..."


    As the people entered the defensive formation of Yu Heng Sect, three hundred huge fireballs rushed towards the formation, causing a ripple of raging mes outside the formation.


    "Gulp..."


    Looking at the sea of fire behind them, Gu Lin swallowed nervously.


    "What... what''s going on with Yu Heng Sect? Did they offend so many wolves? Are these wolves attacking Yu Heng Sect?" Gu Lin asked in astonishment.


    Princess Qian You remained silent, her brows furrowed as the white cloud continued straight towards the center of Yu Heng Sect, where the Yu Heng Peak and Yu Heng Hall were located.


    As the white cloud passed by, five figures quickly flew over from a distance. The excitement of the wolves outside and the extreme vignce within Yu Heng Sect indicated a state of high alert. As soon as the white cloud entered, the first-generation disciples of Yu Heng Sect immediately flew up.


    "Greetings, Elder." The five people flew over and immediately bowed respectfully in mid-air.


    "Let''s go, into the hall first." Princess Qian You said.


    "Yes." The five immediatelyplied, following Princess Qian You''s white cloud into the distant Yu Heng Hall.


    On their way, Zhong Shan saw many disciples of Yu Heng Sect nervously on guard.


    After entering the hall and standing still, Zhong Shan carefully observed the five people. Three men and two women, with a middle-aged man in ordinary attire standing at the front, wearing a white robe. The other four stood behind him. Obviously, this man was the Sect Master of Yu Heng Sect, and the other four were his junior disciples.


    "Elder." The Sect Master of Yu Heng Sect said with concern.


    "Lao Li, what''s going on? Sending the guardian to Seven Star Pavilion, is it because of the siege of Yu Heng Sect by the wolves?" Princess Qian You asked with a furrowed brow.


    "No, that''s another matter. The siege of the wolves only happened recently." Lao Li, the Sect Master of Yu Heng Sect, immediately replied.


    "Oh?" Princess Qian You asked in confusion.


    Everyone looked at Lao Li together.


    "Elder, let''s deal with the wolves outside first, then we can discuss this matterter." Lao Li said.


    "Okay." Princess Qian You nodded. Apparently, the urgency of the other matter wasn''t that high right now.


    "What''s going on outside? The wolf n wouldn''t attack Yu Heng Sect without reason." Princess Qian You asked with a furrowed brow.


    "It''s the fault of a traitor." Lao Li said with a look of shame.


    "Alright, continue." Princess Qian You nodded.


    "The traitor, not long ago, captured a fire wolf in the mountains with more than a dozen second-generation disciples of Yu Heng Sect. This fire wolf was in the early stage of the Golden Core Realm. The traitor tried to tame it, but it was rebellious and refused to submit. In the end, the traitor severely injured it and threw it out to let it die on its own. Unexpectedly, the fire wolf miraculously survived and started gathering more wolves for revenge. Now, the wolves outside are all summoned by it." Lao Li said with a look of shame.


    "A fire wolf in the early stage of the Golden Core Realm? Your son is quite capable." Princess Qian You chuckled.


    "Sigh, who would have thought it would cause such a disaster? The wolves outside, at the Yuan Infant Realm, number more than ten, and there are even more at the Golden Core Realm. There are countless wolves at the Nascent Soul Realm, and they are still gathering." Lao Li said with a bitter smile.


    "Alright, what about your son?" Princess Qian You''s expression turned serious.


    Upon hearing Princess Qian You''s question, Lao Li blushed.


    "What''s the matter? Is there something you''re hiding?" Princess Qian You frowned.


    "No, it''s just that my son is too useless. When he saw the wolves besieging us from the outside world, he hid in the house by himself." Lao Li sighed.


    Upon hearing this, everyone was stunned, even Gu Lin was speechless.


    "Your son caused such a big disaster for Yu Heng Sect and he''s fine just hiding in the house?" Princess Qian You sneered.


    "My son is indeed useless, but now Yu Heng Sect is in dire straits. Elder, please help Yu Heng Sect. Once the wolves retreat, I will let the elder punish my son." Lao Li sighed.


    "Hand him over to me for punishment? Why would I punish him? Hand him over to the guardian. It''s up to him how to punish him." Princess Qian You said angrily.


    "Yes." Lao Li immediately nodded.


    "Where did all these fire wolvese from? Why are there suddenly so many?" Princess Qian You frowned.


    "They came from the northwest, from the zing Fire Mountains." Lao Li immediately replied.


    "The zing Fire Mountains?" Princess Qian You''s eyes narrowed.


    "Have you ever taken action against them?" Princess Qian You asked immediately.


    "We didn''t dare." Lao Li said.


    "You didn''t dare?" Princess Qian You narrowed her eyes, staring at Lao Li.


    "With so many wolvesing, I was worried, so I didn''t dare to take any aggressive action, fearing it would attract the zing Fire Wolf King." Lao Li said anxiously.


    "Yes, the zing Fire Wolf King resides in the zing Fire Mountains. However, the wolf n has never attacked Yu Heng Sect before. Even if, as you said, a single fire wolf holds a grudge, it wouldn''t be able to gather so many wolves. Lao Li, what else are you hiding from me?" Princess Qian You demanded angrily.


    "I am not hiding anything. Everything I said is true, without a word of falsehood." Lao Li immediately replied.


    "Elder, what the Sect Master said is all true, without any omission." One of Lao Li''spanions said.


    "Yes, Elder, we testify to that." The others echoed.


    Seeing that all five of them spoke in unison, Princess Qian You took a deep breath and said, "Since you haven''t hidden anything from me, then it must be your son who has hidden something from you. He hasn''t told you everything."


    Upon hearing Princess Qian You''s words, Lao Li''s head lifted, a sh of anger in his eyes as he looked at the other two men beside him, "The two of you, please bring my son here for me."


    "Yes, Sect Master." The other two men immediately responded.


    Then, everyone waited in the hall.

 Chapter 185: One Man, Three-Inch Tongue

    <h4>Chapter 185: One Man, Three-Inch Tongue</h4>


    Zhong Shan frowned as he observed the scene before him. He felt a peculiar sense of affinity towards the wolf n; after all, the national beast of the Daxin Dynasty was a wolf. In other words, given his own identity, he held an ''iparably eminent'' status among these fire wolves.


    Yuheng Sect, allied with the Kaiyang Sect, had a tenuous connection with him, so he didn''t wish any harm upon them. Caught in a dilemma, Zhong Shan decided to remain neutral for the moment, or at least understand the situation better to mediate and possibly diffuse the tension.


    Within less than half a stick of incense, the two men who had left earlier returned, dragging a cowering man in red. The red-robed man''s eyes were filled with panic and fear.


    "Father, Father, you must save me!" the man in red cried as he rushed towards Liu Suifeng upon entering the grand hall.


    "Wretched son, kneel!" Liu Suifeng roared, his eyes zing with fury.


    With a ''thud'', an invisible force seemed to press down, and the man in red dropped to his knees instantly.


    "Father, Father, I am your son!" the man in red pleaded.


    "Wretched son, hmph! Tell me, what have you not confessed? Why are there so many wolves? What trouble have you stirred up? Do you want to drag the Yuheng Sect to its doom?" Liu Suifeng shouted.


    "Father, I didn''t, I didn''t! I''ve told you everything!" the red-robed man screamed in terror.


    The others stood silently by, coldly watching, without uttering a word. The mighty Yuheng Sect had been brought to the brink of destruction by him. If he wouldn''t speak now, when would he? After the sect was destroyed?


    "Hmph, wretched son, if you don''t speak now, I''ll kill you with my own hands," Liu Suifeng said, enraged.


    "Father, Father, I am your son!" the red-robed man cried, tears of fear streaming down his face.


    "I have no son like you. The lives of the entire sect are in your hands, and you still won''t speak?" Liu Suifeng bellowed.


    The man in red looked fearfully at Liu Suifeng, then at the others, before copsing to the side in a daze, muttering, "I can''t say it. If I do, I''ll die for sure."


    Seeing his son in such a state, Liu Suifeng frowned and sighed, "No matter what, you need to tell us. If you don''t, the wolves will attack Yuheng Sect, and if any more wolves die, the enmity will grow endlessly. It could even alert the me Wolf General, which would mean the end of our sect and certain death for you. Speak now, and there might still be a chance. No matter what happened, there is always a solution."


    "Father, Father, kill me! Kill me, and the wolves will leave. They will leave," the man in red said, as if having an epiphany, and knelt upright before Liu Suifeng.


    "What exactly happened? Speak!" Liu Suifeng demanded.


    "The wolf I capturedst time, it was actually the son of the me Wolf General. The general is currently in seclusion, so the young me wolf was alone when we captured it. I didn''t know at the time. If I had known, I would never have dared to capture it," the red-robed man exined in fear.


    "When did you find out?" Liu Suifeng asked angrily.


    "That day, when it was about to die, I took it out. Later, it was rescued by a man who said he owed a great debt to the me Wolf General and recognized the young wolf. He said the young wolf was the general''s son and took it away. He also knew I was from Yuheng Sect. Father, it''s my fault. I brought disaster upon Yuheng Sect. Kill me!" the red-robed man cried in panic.


    "Liu Wushuang, you��" Liu Suifeng roared in anger.


    "What did you do to the young wolf before it was rescued?" Princess Qianyou asked, her eyes narrowing. She quickly detected a w in Liu Wushuang''s story. Was he still hiding something?


    "I, I..." Liu Wushuang stammered, unable to speak.


    "Speak quickly!" Liu Suifeng demanded.


    "I heard that wolf meat is delicious, so I lit a fire and prepared to..." Liu Wushuang stammered in fear.


    Everyone froze at Liu Wushuang''s words. He intended to burn a Jindan stage wolf alive? Zhong Shan shook his head slightly; heaven may forgive natural disasters, but self-inflicted misfortune is inescapable.


    Liu Wushuang confessed, expecting his father''s reprimands. However, everyone turned to look at the woman standing behind them.


    "Elder, this wretched son hasmitted an unforgivable mistake. The millennium foundation of the Yuheng Sect must not be endangered. He will bear the consequences alone," Liu Suifeng said with a face full of sorrow. It was clear he had decided to abandon Liu Wushuang.


    Previously, Liu Wushuang had asked his father to kill him out of sheer terror, uttering confused words. When fear surpasses a person''s limit, they often react in extreme ways. Now, as Liu Suifeng prepared to forsake him, Liu Wushuang''s fear surged anew, and he sat shivering on the floor.


    "Sect Master," the other four called out.


    "My decision is final; there''s no need for further persuasion," Liu Suifeng said with a frown.


    A wretched son indeed. Despite Liu Wushuang''s absurd actions, he was still Liu Suifeng''s son. Though Liu Suifeng was acting in the best interest of the sect, it was clear the decision pained him deeply. As the sect master, he couldn''t allow Yuheng Sect to be destroyed under his leadership.


    "Roasting a wolf? What a notion. Do you think your death will make the wolves forgive Yuheng Sect?" Princess Qianyou asked, her brow furrowing.


    "Elder, what should we do?" Liu Suifeng asked anxiously.


    Ignoring the crowd, Princess Qianyou began pacing back and forth, deep in thought, her frown deepening with each step.


    Liu Suifeng and the others waited patiently, while Zhong Shan stood silently.


    "Shuijing, do you have any solutions?" Gulin asked Mr. Shuijing.


    "Solutions? None. The me Wolf General is in seclusion. The wolves in the ming Wolf Mountains must obey the general''s son or another significant wolf. The fact that they are besieging Yuheng Sect shows they deeply care for the young wolf and seek revenge. The young wolf was tortured and nearly roasted alive. Do you think they would be appeased? Only if the me Wolf General himselfes, perhaps we could negotiate," Mr. Shuijing said, shaking his head.


    Someone behind Liu Suifeng spoke, "It''s hopeless. Since it''s the me Wolf General''s son, there''s even less chance. I''ve heard that the me Wolf General only has one offspring, whom he dotes on immensely. That''s why the wolves from ming Wolf Mountains are so protective. If the general learns of the young wolf''s torment, he''ll be even more furious."


    Hearing this, everyone grew more worried.


    "So we''ll have to use force to subdue them?" Gulin asked, frowning.


    At this moment, Princess Qianyou stopped and said, "Yuheng Sect might not fear the me Wolf General, but is it worth making an irrevocable enemy of him?"


    "Elder, as long as we can resolve the threat of the wolves, I''m willing to relinquish my position as Sect Master," Liu Suifeng immediately offered.


    Princess Qianyou nced at Liu Suifeng and said, "Relinquish your position? The wolves didn''te because of you, but because you failed to discipline your son."


    "Yes," Liu Suifeng nodded.


    Princess Qianyou thought for a moment, then looked at Zhong Shan, who stood there, observing everything with an indifferent expression. She felt a wave of frustration.


    "Zhong Shan, you''re from Kaiyang Sect, an ally of Yuheng Sect. In times of trouble, you should help. What do you think we should do?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Does he even have a solution?" Gulin sneered.


    Mr. Shuijing also stared at Zhong Shan, curious to see what he would do.


    Ah Da and Ah Er also looked at Zhong Shan with worried expressions.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou calling on him, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and broke his silence. He nced at the fallen Liu Wushuang and said, "Liu Wushuang is indeed to me for Yuheng Sect''s plight. Even if he dies a thousand deaths, it wouldn''t be enough to save the sect. However, there is always a solution. The situation is dire, but not hopeless."


    "Oh?" Princess Qianyou looked at Zhong Shan with surprise.


    In the current predicament, even she and Mr. Shuijing had not been able to think of a quick solution to drive away the wolves. She knew Zhong Shan was incredibly wise, but this situation seemed beyond mere wisdom. Yet Zhong Shan seemed confident��did he truly have a way?


    "Ha! Qianyou, your subordinate is quite the braggart," Gulin sneered.


    Mr. Shuijing, however, looked at Zhong Shan with a glint of surprise and expectation in his eyes.


    Ah Da and Ah Er took a deep breath. They knew that if Zhong Shan said he had a solution, then he certainly did.


    Liu Suifeng and the others looked at Zhong Shan with hopeful eyes. Was there really a way?


    Zhong Shan looked at the group and said, "When demonic beasts reach the innate stage, they gain intelligence and canmunicate. Many of them are highly intelligent. If we canmunicate, there''s always a way to resolve things. The wolves'' withdrawal doesn''t depend on the depth of their hatred for the young wolf, but rather on how tempting the terms we offer are."


    "Ha, negotiating with these beasts? Do you think they''ll listen to you? The only terms they want are the destruction of Yuheng Sect. Can you give them that?" Gulin mocked.


    Gulin''s words angered the members of Yuheng Sect, who red at him with resentment.


    "What kind of terms do you think will make the wolves withdraw?" Princess Qianyou asked, frowning.


    Mr. Shuijing also watched patiently, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. Zhong Shan''s logic was sound, but how could it be implemented? As the noble heir had said, would the wolves listen? Would they sit down at a negotiation table?


    "The terms need to be discussed with them first. It''s too early to decide on the terms now," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Then, you can make the wolves retreat?" Princess Qianyou asked, puzzled.


    "I used to be a merchant and know how to negotiate. I can lower the terms to the minimum for you, Princess," Zhong Shan said with a nod.


    "Haha, you''re going to negotiate with wolves? How?" Gulin mocked, echoing the doubts of the others.


    "What do you need?" Princess Qianyou asked directly, looking at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan pointed to himself and said, "One person, three-inch tongue."

 Chapter 186: The Difference Between Wolves and Dogs

    <h4>Chapter 186: The Difference Between Wolves and Dogs</h4>


    "One person, a three-inch tongue."


    Zhong Shan''s simple deration left everyone momentarily stunned. Mixed reactions of disbelief, doubt, shock, and disdain filled the air.


    The five members of Yuheng Sect were puzzled, their minds racing with questions. Going out alone? With just his tongue? Was he seeking death? Leaving the protection of Yuheng Sect''s grand array would surely result in a fierce assault.


    Gulin looked at Zhong Shan as if he were a fool. "Go ahead, leave. The sooner you die, the better," his eyes seemed to say.


    Mr. Shuijing paused, his fan momentarily still against his chest. A flicker of surprise crossed his eyes before he resumed fanning himself, though his brow remained furrowed. He trusted Zhong Shan; if he imed there was a way, there likely was.


    Princess Qianyou, Ah Da, and Ah Er shared Mr. Shuijing''s sentiment, watching Zhong Shan intently.


    "Zhong Shan, do you speak thenguage of wolves?" Princess Qianyou asked, her brow slightly furrowed.


    "I don''t speak it, but I can understand some of it," Zhong Shan replied with a smile. Over the years, he had learned a considerable amount about wolfmunication.


    Everyone''s eyes widened at Zhong Shan''s response.


    The members of Yuheng Sect were visibly delighted. Could he really understand wolfnguage?


    Gulin, on the other hand, was dumbfounded.


    Mr. Shuijing smiled faintly, and Princess Qianyou looked hopeful.


    "Very well, I will apany you," Princess Qianyou offered, concerned for Zhong Shan''s safety. The wolves outside were formidable, and she could ensure his protection.


    "No need. I''ll go alone. Negotiations are more sincere when conducted by one person. You all wait here in Yuheng Sect for my return," Zhong Shan declined with a shake of his head.


    "Alright," Princess Qianyou agreed, not pressing further.


    A group of people escorted Zhong Shan to the edge of Yuheng Sect''s grand array.


    Gazing at the array, identical to that of Kaiyang Sect, Zhong Shan knew how to pass through.


    "Be careful," Princess Qianyou advised onest time.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan replied with a smile. He then turned his attention to the thousands of wolves outside the array.


    With a flick of his robe, Zhong Shan walked towards the array''s edge.


    The others watched anxiously from within, their eyes fixed on Zhong Shan.


    "Ah Da, Ah Er, be ready to rescue him if necessary," Princess Qianyou ordered.


    "Yes," they responded immediately.


    The members of Yuheng Sect watched with worry, while Gulin''s face was cold and mocking. Mr. Shuijing, fanning himself, observed intently, curious about Zhong Shan''s next move. Ah Da and Ah Er remained alert, ready to act at a moment''s notice.


    Only Princess Qianyou wore aplex expression, her brow tightly furrowed as she watched Zhong Shan. Her look wasn''t just of concern but also a mix of frustration.


    "Hummmmmmmmmm..."


    Zhong Shan stepped out of the outermostyer of the array.


    "Growrrrrr..." Many wolves bared their teeth, ready to unleash fireballs.


    "Roarrrrrrr..."


    The leading wolf let out a long howl, causing the others to halt their fireballs, looking at the lead wolf in confusion.


    "Everyone, I''vee to negotiate. Allow me to enter," Zhong Shan said loudly.


    The lead wolf seemed to frown at Zhong Shan''s words.


    "Whimper whimper..."


    The wolves surprisingly obeyed, making way for Zhong Shan, evidently understanding hisnguage, though they couldn''t speak it themselves. Everyone in Yuheng Sect stared at Zhong Shan with wide eyes. How could it be? Just a single sentence, and the wolves actually listened and cleared a path for him to negotiate? Had they been waiting for negotiations all along?


    As Zhong Shan approached, the wolves shook their heads in a peculiar manner. He gave thergest wolf a special look, one that he had learned from Qingyun Wolf General, a look that meant ''alert'' or ''caution.''


    The leading wolf seemed to understand.


    "Woof woof woof," it barked a few times.


    Some wolves continued to bare their teeth at Yuheng Sect, while others allowed Zhong Shan into their midst, surrounding him and obscuring him from view.


    "Princess," Ah Da immediately expressed his concern.


    "Don''t worry, it''ll be fine," Princess Qianyou said, furrowing her brows as she watched from a distance.


    Mr. Shui Jing also looked at the scene with a puzzled expression, feeling as if there was something he couldn''t understand.


    Everyone waited in anticipation.


    Within the wolf encirclement, Zhong Shan noticed the wolves'' curious expressions as they looked at him. The leading wolf growled and questioned Zhong Shan.


    Wolfnguage: Who are you? Why do you have the scent of my n?


    Understanding its words, Zhong Shan smiled slightly and said, "Who I am, you should already know. Emperor Xuan Xie and I have a contract. The wolves are the national beast of my Great Zheng Dynasty."


    Wolfnguage: Great Zheng Dynasty? How could the Supreme make a contract with a mere dynasty?


    Zhong Shan smiled at the big wolf and replied, "You should ask your Supreme about that. However, this contract is real, and every wolf can sense it."


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, the big wolf fell silent for a moment, and the other wolves did the same.


    Wolfnguage: Then why are you here? Do you intend to help Yuheng Sect?


    "I''ve heard what happened. Bring out the son of Fire Wolf General; I want to speak with him," Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    The leading wolf stared at Zhong Shan, then howled to the sky.


    "Awwooooooo!"


    Following the howl, the wolves became restless, and soon a wolf with bloodshot eyes and an angry expression ran over from the distance. This wolf, though only fifteen meters tall and considered small among the wolves, was still a giantpared to Zhong Shan.


    "Woof woof woof," the wolves barked at the neer, exining Zhong Shan''s identity. Even without the exnation, the small wolf seemed to know who Zhong Shan was. However, it remained furious, eyes burning with rage.


    "Are you the son of Fire Wolf General?" Zhong Shan asked.


    The small wolf growled in response.


    Wolfnguage: Yes, you are chosen by the Supreme. I respect you, but I must avenge Yuheng Sect and Liu Wushuang.


    "Heh, I''m not stopping you. I just think that by doing this, you''re dishonoring your father, the Supreme, and the entire wolf n," Zhong Shan said.


    Wolfnguage: What do you mean? I''m avenging myself; how is that dishonorable?


    "Let me ask you, why did the ten thousand wolves charge here?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    Wolfnguage: Naturally, to avenge me.


    "Then why do they seek revenge for you? Other wolves have been killed, but this didn''t happen. Why did you bring ten thousand wolves to attack?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    Wolfnguage: .....


    "I''ll tell you. It''s because of Fire Wolf General, not you. The ten thousand wolves are here to support Fire Wolf General, to avenge his disgrace. What you are doing is announcing to the world that you can''t avenge yourself. At the first sign of trouble, you hide behind your father''s reputation. Fire Wolf General is a legendary hero, but his son is a coward," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    Wolfnguage: I''m not, I''m not a coward. If it were a one-on-one fight, Liu Wushuang wouldn''t be my match. He set a trap with a group of people; that''s how I got captured.


    Seeing the little wolf getting agitated, Zhong Shan smiled and said, "I believe you, and that''s why I''m here to talk to you."


    Wolfnguage: Are you here to plead for Liu Wushuang?


    "No, I''m not here to plead for him. ''Heaven''s sins can be forgiven; one''s own sins cannot be survived.'' He deserves severe punishment," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Wolfnguage: Then why are you here?


    "I''m here to plead for Yuheng Sect. You can have Liu Wushuang, but Yuheng Sect has a connection with me and must not be destroyed," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    Wolfnguage: Fine, I''ll give you that respect, but only because of your abilities.


    Hearing this from the little wolf, Zhong Shan smiled slightly and said, "You are a wolf who understands the importance of gratitude and enmity. With this, I am also relieved for Fire Wolf General, knowing he has such a sensible son. But let me tell you this: wolves fear no situation. You are currently under Fire Wolf General''s protection, and the wolves only recognize him. If you be a general yourself, the wolves will truly be loyal to you. Only then can you lead them and your decisions will be their honor. That''s when you can truly use their power."


    Wolfnguage: Understood!


    "How long was Liu Wushuang holding you captive?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    Wolfnguage: Three months.


    "Alright, then Liu Wushuang will be yours for three years. Since you didn''t capture him yourself, you''ll have him for three years to deal with as you see fit, as long as he isn''t killed or crippled. After that, release him," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    Wolfnguage: Three years?


    "Yes, three years. Let him rest for a year, and if you have the ability, capture him yourself. The difference between wolves and dogs is that wolves do not rely on charity. Dogs wait to be fed; wolves fight for what they need. They do not ept handouts," Zhong Shan exined.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s analogy, the little wolf''s pupils contracted as it stared at Zhong Shan.


    Wolfnguage: Fine, three years. I''ll pay some interest now. In the fifth year, I will personally capture him.


    "Good, then wait for it," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Wolfnguage: Alright.


    As Zhong Shan was about to leave, he suddenly turned back and said, "When your fatheres out, give him my regards and tell him my name is Zhong Shan."


    After speaking, Zhong Shan walked back towards Yuheng Sect''s grand formation through the path made by the wolves.


    Watching Zhong Shan leave, the little wolf narrowed its eyes. Although he was just a man, the little wolf sensed a grandeur and majesty from him, something it had only felt from its father. His name was Zhong Shan?


    "He''s back," Ah Da said excitedly.


    Everyone watched as Zhong Shan slowly walked back from a distance. The wolves no longer troubled him and even seemed to look at him with respect. Respect? Was Zhong Shan really so good at negotiating that even these beasts admired him?


    The members of Yuheng Sect showed signs of relief and hope, as if a storm had passed and clear skies were ahead. They just didn''t know what the exact terms of the negotiation were.

 Chapter 187: Sincerity Begets Sincerity

    <h4>Chapter 187: Sincerity Begets Sincerity</h4>


    Slowly, Zhong Shan walked into Yuheng Sect''s grand formation.


    As soon as he entered, Liu Suifeng stepped forward and asked, "How did it go?"


    With a smile, Zhong Shan nced at Liu Suifeng, then at everyone else, and finally spoke under the curious gaze of Princess Qianyou, "I didn''t fail my mission. The ten thousand wolves have given up on targeting Yuheng Sect."


    "Hoo," the people of Yuheng Sect immediately breathed a sigh of relief.


    "And the terms? What conditions did the wolves set?" Princess Qianyou asked immediately.


    "Liu Wushuang," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Unfilial son," Liu Suifeng''s face showed a trace of pain. Although he resented Liu Wushuang, he was still his son. Watching his son die would be hard for any father to ept.


    "It''s already quite favorable," Mr. Shui Jing nodded from the side.


    Gu Lin, however, was filled with jealousy.


    "Three years," Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    "Huh? Three years?" Everyone looked at Zhong Shan again, not understanding what he meant by three years.


    "Liu Wushuang tortured that fire wolf for three months. The fire wolf demanded Liu Wushuang be handed over to it for three years. It can mistreat him, but must ensure that after three years, Liu Wushuang is neither dead nor crippled," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Really?" Liu Suifeng''s face was full of joy.


    Everyone else looked incredulous. Was it really that easy? Were the wolves really so amodating?


    From Liu Suifeng''s perspective, mistreatment? Let him be mistreated then, as long as he doesn''t die. Besides, his son deserved some punishment. Saving Yuheng Sect was already a great fortune, and keeping Wushuang alive as well?


    Liu Suifeng looked at Zhong Shan with immense gratitude.


    "Go and tell him. In three years, he can regain his freedom," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Alright, I''ll go right away," Liu Suifeng said, rushing off with an uncharacteristk ofposure for a sect leader.


    But considering the circumstances��facing the potential destruction of his sect and the imminent execution of his son��suddenly having the sect saved and his son only facing a three-year sentence, what father wouldn''t be excited?


    Soon, Liu Suifeng returned with an equally excited Liu Wushuang.


    Liu Wushuang''s face showed a mix of hope, disbelief, and regret.


    "Senior," Liu Wushuang said respectfully, bowing deeply to Zhong Shan under Liu Suifeng''s instruction.


    Having his life spared meant more than anything. Three years would pass quickly. All of this was thanks to the kindness of the Ka Yang Sect member before him. He hoped everything was true.


    "I am not your senior, Liu Wushuang. Before you go, I have some advice for you," Zhong Shan said, looking at Liu Wushuang.


    "Yes," Liu Wushuang replied respectfully.


    Gu Lin sneered, while the others listened patiently.


    "Everyone makes mistakes, but not everyone can bear the consequences. You will spend three years making up for your past mistakes. In these three years, you may suffer all kinds of torture from the wolves, but your life will be spared. Without enduring storms, how can you see the rainbow? After three years, you will either be driven mad by the wolves or have your will honed as hard as rock, with a limitless future ahead of you. Whether you turn mad or be a dragon, I hope you make the most of it," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, everyone frowned slightly and nodded in agreement.


    Liu Wushuang looked at Zhong Shan, and finally, his expression became serious. He bowed respectfully and said, "I will remember your teachings, senior. I will repay your great kindness one day. May I know your esteemed name?"


    At this moment, in Liu Wushuang''s eyes, there was only solemnity. The person before him not only saved his life, but the final advice also enlightened him, bringing boundless benefits.


    Seeing Liu Wushuang''s determined and grateful expression, Princess Qianyou furrowed her brows slightly, somewhat surprised as she nced at Zhong Shan.


    "Hehe, I''m not anyone significant. My name is Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Yes," Liu Wushuang bowed respectfully.


    Seeing his son suddenly so mature, Liu Suifeng''s face showed a rare smile. This smile wasn''t just because his son''s life was spared, but it seemed like his son had grown up in an instant. Looking at his son, then at Zhong Shan, Liu Suifeng''s eyes were filled with gratitude.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes," Liu Wushuang immediately nodded and followed Zhong Shan, walking towards the center of the Yuheng Sect''s grand formation, where the multitude of wolves gathered.


    Watching Zhong Shan take Liu Wushuang away, Mr. Shui Jing shook his feather fan, his eyes filled with admiration.


    Gu Lin, on the other hand, looked at Zhong Shan with jealousy. Liu Suifeng looked outside, his eyes showing a hint of reluctance. Ada and A''er showed excitement.


    As for Princess Qianyou, at this moment, as she watched Zhong Shan leave, she clenched her fists, her eyes filled with uncertainty.


    Once outside the grand formation, the ten thousand wolves became restless. Zhong Shan calmly led Liu Wushuang into the heart of the wolf pack.


    The son of the fire wolf general looked at Liu Wushuang with his eyes burning red. If it were before, Liu Wushuang would have been trembling in fear. However, after Zhong Shan''s guidance, he seemed to have changed, appearing calm and collected.


    "Liu Wushuang is yours now," Zhong Shan called out to the fire wolf.


    "Woo~~~~~~~" The wolf raised its head and howled, and the ten thousand wolves became restless. Slowly, they began to retreat from all sides of the Yuheng Sect. As they left in grand procession, Liu Wushuang followed the little fire wolf, walking farther and farther away amidst the protection of the wolf pack.


    As the wolves thundered away, raising clouds of dust, their imposing momentum receded into the distance.


    Zhong Shan stood where the wolves had been, in the open space, watching as they departed.


    Inside the Yuheng Sect, the disciples showed excitement one after another. The wolves had left; Yuheng Sect was safe.


    Liu Suifeng, along with the other four senior disciples, also showed strong excitement.


    Princess Qianyou, however, looked at Zhong Shan with narrowed eyes, a strange expression shing in her eyes.


    Only when all the wolves had left did Zhong Shan turn and walk back.


    Zhong Shan entered the grand formation once again.


    "Thank you," Liu Suifeng and his four disciples bowed to Zhong Shan.


    "No need to thank me. I am under the princess''smand and naturally share her concerns," Zhong Shan shook his head and smiled.


    "Yes, thank you, Elder," the disciples thanked Princess Qianyou again.


    "Alright, let''s go. First, let''s enter the Yuheng Pce and discuss why you sent guards to Seven Star Hall this time," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Then, with a wave of her hand, a white cloud appeared beneath her feet, carrying her and Zhong Shan towards the distant Yuheng Peak.


    Ada and A''er flew behind at a distance, while Gu Lin, watching Princess Qianyou carrying Zhong Shan alone, narrowed his eyes with resentment, showing his anger openly.


    Mr. Shui Jing nced at Gu Lin and smiled faintly.


    The five senior disciples of Yuheng Sect followed closely behind.


    Atop the white clouds, Princess Qianyou looked at the solemn Zhongshan and asked, "Sir, in the recent election for the Lord of Wushuang City, did you exert all your efforts merely to repay the favor of Eight Gates Mountain?"


    A hint of worry shed in Princess Qianyou''s eyes. During the crisis faced by Jade Harmony Sect, Zhongshan had shown no foresight. Even if he knew the solution, he wouldn''t have revealed it without her inquiry. What did this indicate?


    It suggested that Zhongshan still wasn''t as loyal to her as Ah Da and Ah Er. He was merely in a subordinate rtionship. If Zhongshan were transferred elsewhere, he would simrly turn against her.


    Did Zhongshan put in so much effort for Wushuang City just to repay the favor? Princess Qianyou didn''t want him to repay that favor, and she even hoped he would remain indebted. If such a talented person couldn''t wholeheartedly serve her, wouldn''t that be a failure on her part?


    Turning to Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan''s expression showed surprise, but he nodded and said, "That is indeed part of the reason, but not the whole."


    With that part of the reason, Princess Qianyou had already confirmed that Zhongshan hadn''t been fully won over. This meant that Zhongshan didn''t fully belong to her yet. But that was also good; at least she knew Zhongshan hadn''t beenpletely won over, giving her hope.


    With a slight smile, Princess Qianyou asked, "Just now, it seemed like Li Wushuang hadpletely changed. If you were to take him under your wing, he would surely devote himself wholeheartedly. Sir, I''d like to ask, how did you do it? What kind of mystery lies in those few short sentences?"


    Surprised by Princess Qianyou''s directness and her insightful gaze, Zhongshan took a deep breath and replied earnestly, "Treat others with sincerity, and they will treat you the same."


    What Zhongshan meant was: Treat others how you want to be treated.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Princess Qianyou''s pupils contracted, and then she thought about Zhongshan. Indeed, why did Zhongshan repay her favor? Wasn''t it because she had once shown him favor?


    "Princess, I''ve learned from your wisdom." Princess Qianyou immediately bowed.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou bow slightly, Zhongshan furrowed his brows and quickly offered his hand, "I dare not, Princess. Your worth is immeasurable; you shouldn''t do this anymore. I''m just a guard."


    Princess Qianyou stood straight and shook her head slightly. "No, from today onwards, you are just you, and being a guard is just a nominal position."


    "Princess, you''re worrying too much. I''m unworthy of your kindness," Zhongshan immediately responded. He sighed inwardly. There was no escaping from receiving favors when under someone else''smand.


    "Whether I''m worrying too much is my business. As long as I don''t lose you, it doesn''t matter if I worry too much," Princess Qianyou said with a smile, treating Zhongshan with sincerity. This time, Princess Qianyou spoke frankly without beating around the bush.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan smiled wryly. "It seems I''ve been overly sentimental!"


    "Overly sentimental? Haha, your analogy is indeed exquisite. You, sir, are like a willow leaf in the wind, drifting without roots. But from now on, you can only shelter under my tree for wind and rain," Princess Qianyou said with a smile.


    "Princess jests. I''m just a floating willow leaf. In the future, I can only seek shelter under your tree and weather the storms," Zhongshan said with a shake of his head.


    With things havinge to this point, it was difficult for Zhongshan to remain low-key. It was time to embrace his new identity as soon as possible.

 Chapter 188: The Imperial Seal of Tianchao

    <h4>Chapter 188: The Imperial Seal of Tianchao</h4>


    Flying together in the distance, Gu Lin and Master Shuijing watched as Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou conversed with each other, their faces filled with envy and resentment. However, when they saw Princess Qianyou give a slight bow to Zhongshan, their eyes widened in disbelief. How could this be? What was Zhongshan''s identity? Even if Zhongshan had a distinguished status, could itpare to Princess Qianyou''s? Why would Princess Qianyou bow to him?


    Of course, it wasn''t just Gu Lin who was surprised. Everyone was astonished, but no one dared to speak up, nor did they have the right to.


    As Gu Lin looked at Zhongshan, the resentment in his eyes suddenly turned icy. However, Gu Lin made no attempt to hide it, causing Master Shuijing beside him to shake his head in silence.


    Inside the Jade Harmony Hall, everyone had regained theirposure, but this time, there was less anxiety than before. With the wolves gone, everyone felt calm.


    "Alright, Suifeng, what''s the matter that made you send guards to the Seven Star Hall?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Suifeng said, "Elder, do you remember the damp area to the west of the Jade Harmony Sect?"


    Hearing Suifeng''s words, Princess Qianyou raised her eyebrows and asked, "The damp area? Do you mean that continuous mountain range shrouded in miasma, extremely cold and infested with evil creatures?"


    "Yes, that''s the mountain range, the Great Yin Mountains. For thousands of years, it has been shrouded in darkness, producing numerous sinister and cruel creatures. However, they were all weak, so no one paid much attention to it," Suifeng exined.


    "Ah," Princess Qianyou nodded, waiting for Suifeng to continue.


    "Actually, the reason for inviting Elder back this time is because of that ce," Suifeng continued.


    "Oh?" Princess Qianyou looked puzzled, and everyone turned to look at Suifeng.


    "Eight months ago, on the fifteenth day of every month when the moon was full, the Great Yin Mountains suddenly erupted with dark energy. Within the mountain range, there were sounds of ghosts and wolves, eerie and terrifying. Even when I and several disciples entered, we suddenly saw illusions of countless ghosts and demons, forcing us out. Moreover, in the dark energy above, there were nine pitch-ck phantom dragons roaming and flying, their roars shaking the heavens," Suifeng recounted.


    "Oh?" Princess Qianyou eximed in surprise.


    The others were also astonished as they looked at Suifeng.


    "Oh, right, Elder, please take a look." Suifeng reached into his hand and took out a memory crystal.


    Princess Qianyou took it and activated it with her true energy. In the memory crystal, an image appeared.


    The full moon hung high in the sky over a quiet mountain range, shrouded in a misty haze, looking somewhat unreal.


    "Woo~~~"


    Suddenly, a howl broke the silence of the dark surroundings, piercing through the sky with a terrifying and eerie sound. In an instant, the entire mountain range, the entire mountain range, was enveloped in countless ck mists.


    The ck mist seemed to spew out from the earth and shoot straight into the sky.


    The sinister ck mistpletely enveloped the entire mountain range, stopping only when it reached a height of thousands of feet.


    Within the ck mist world, there were also countless chilling sounds. There were cries of ghosts, howls of wolves, exhtions of zombies, and resentful cries of evil spirits.


    For a moment, the entire environment of the ck mist was filled with a chilling atmosphere, making it extremely terrifying to behold.


    "Woo~~~"


    "Woo~~~"


    ... The nine dragon roars directly pierced through the eerie illusion, resonating throughout the heavens and earth. The roaring of the dragons shook the surroundings, causing the endless ck mist of the mountain range to tremble. The nine pitch-ck dragons soared straight to the top of the misty environment.


    As they churned and danced in the mist, the nine dragons swiftly swam around. But at the moment they faced the memory crystal, they revealed their massive heads. Their heads were also ink-ck, with only their eyes glowing a deep red, devoid of any pupils or whites, shining with a sinister crimson akin to rubies.


    The memory crystal suddenly shed, and the image disappeared.


    The crowd was immersed in shock, taking a long time to recover.


    Looking at the memory crystal, Princess Qianyou narrowed her eyes. Then she looked at Zhongshan and Master Shuijing, asking, "Did you see anything?"


    Zhongshan shook his head. After all, he had limited exposure to the cultivation world and couldn''t discern much.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s reaction, Princess Qianyou didn''t press further. After all, no one knew everything.


    Master Shuijing shook his feather fan, furrowing his brows slightly. "Nine dragons, a profound environment. Princess, did you notice that the nine blind ink dragons and the square ck mountain environment resemble something?"


    "The Imperial Seal of Tianchao, the jade seal cast by the Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade?" Princess Qianyou suddenly eximed in astonishment.


    "Yes, that''s correct. It''s indeed the Imperial Seal of Tianchao, strikingly simr," Master Shuijing nodded.


    "In that case, could this ce be..." Princess Qianyou suddenly paused, her expression incredulous yet joyful.


    "It shouldn''t be wrong," Master Shuijing immediately nodded with a smile.


    "What are you talking about? What ce is that?" Gu Lin immediately asked.


    "We specte that the ce is a royal tomb, no, a celestial tomb," Master Shuijing said solemnly.


    "A celestial tomb?" Gu Lin looked puzzled.


    "Yes, it''s the tomb of a former emperor of Tianchao. However, over the years, for who knows how many thousands of years, it has been buried deep within the Great Yin Mountains. It''s just that, for some reason, the tomb''s energy leaks out, causing anomalies every full moon night," Master Shuijing exined cautiously.


    "The tomb of the emperor of Tianchao? How can you be sure?" Gu Lin frowned.


    "The Imperial Seal of Tianchao must be cast from the Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jade to awe the world. However, not all Nine Dragon Square Heaven Jades can be upgraded to the Imperial Seal of Tianchao. But the environment of the mountain range we just saw resembles the Imperial Seal of Tianchao. Moreover, despite being buried for tens of thousands of years, it can still produce such anomalies. Just now, Lord Suifeng mentioned that even cultivators at the Nascent Soul stage were forced out, so Princess and I dare to conclude that it is a celestial tomb, and inside, there is an Imperial Seal of Tianchao," Master Shuijing said after some thought.


    "That''s correct, but there''s something very strange," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Oh?" Master Shuijing looked at Princess Qianyou.


    "The Imperial Seal of Tianchao can be buried alongside the emperor of Tianchao, indicating that this emperor was very foresighted, knowing he couldn''t resist the heavenly authority and chose to tomb early. Moreover, the person in charge of burying the tomb did not swallow his Imperial Seal of Tianchao, indicating great respect for him. But even so, the tomb couldn''t possibly be located in such a gloomy ce. Generally speaking, celestial tombs are auspicious Feng Shui sites, with true dragons, true sands, true caves, true water, and true orientation. Even if the tomb''s energy leaks, it should still be golden and sacred. However, what we saw just now was extremely gloomy, and the nine dragons were pitch-ck. It''s strange, very strange," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Does the princess understand the art of Feng Shui?" Master Shuijing looked slightly surprised at the princess.


    On the other hand, Zhongshan''s pupils contracted. Feng Shui, this was the second time he had heard of it, the first time being on Tiang Ind. And now he heard it again.


    "I once bothered ''Tian Lao'' for a while, asking him to teach me every day. Tian Lao couldn''t resist me, so he imparted me with a little knowledge, but it wasn''t much, and my understanding was superficial," Princess Qianyou shook her head.


    "Tian Lao? No wonder," Master Shuijing nodded, a hint of respect shing in his eyes.


    "Tian Lao?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows. From the sound of it, there was also a Feng Shui master within the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty called ''Tian Lao''.


    "What''s the point of specting here? We''ll know when we go and see," Gu Lin said from the side.


    "Indeed, since it''s a celestial tomb, I must go and see it. The Imperial Seal of Tianchao is a precious item," Princess Qianyou said determinedly.


    "Elder," Suifeng called out again.


    "Hmm?" Princess Qianyou turned to look at Suifeng.


    "In fact, the worries of the Yuheng Sect do not stem solely from the Great Yin Mountains," Suifeng said.


    "Oh? Is there something else?" Princess Qianyou asked in confusion.


    "Do you remember, in the northwest of the Yuheng Sect, there is an empire," Suifeng said.


    "Empire? The Da Ye Empire?" Princess Qianyou asked, puzzled.


    "That''s right, the Da Ye Empire. After the anomalies in the Great Yin Mountains appeared, the Da Ye Empire dispatched troops to attack nearby sects. The western, southern, and northern parts of the Great Yin Mountains have all been nearly wiped out. I think it won''t be long before theye to our Yuheng Sect. So, I''m worried about the safety of the Yuheng Sect, which is why I sent someone to invite the Elder to sit in," Suifeng exined.


    "Empire? Just a small empire, what''s there to fear?" Gu Lin shook his head andughed.


    "You may not be afraid, but the Yuheng Sect may not be able to handle it," Suifeng shook his head with a sigh.


    "The Da Ye Empire? Haha, what can they do after wiping out sects? Just trying to snatch the Imperial Seal of Tianchao? The Da Ye Empire has been around for thousands of years. It''s also in a hurry. Without the Imperial Seal of Tianchao, how can they ascend to an emperor dynasty? Now that the Imperial Seal of Tianchao has appeared, the Da Ye Empire has a chance to ascend, so naturally, they spare no effort to seize the Imperial Seal of Tianchao," Princess Qianyou said in a deep voice.


    "Princess, does the ascension of the dynasty require the Imperial Seal of Tianchao?" Zhongshan looked at Princess Qianyou in confusion.


    Princess Qianyou unexpectedly looked at Zhongshan, smiling slightly. She didn''t expect Zhongshan to ask her a question.


    "Yes, why are there only three major dynasties in the world? Bing a dynasty is not just about having strong national power. Only the rulers of the three major dynasties know how to ascend to a dynasty. Other dynasties don''t know and won''t ascend. An empire can be born from national power, but an emperor dynasty cannot. Most dynasties that be emperor dynasties acquire the Imperial Seal of Tianchao from an empire and then use other means to have a chance to ascend to an emperor dynasty. But how many Imperial Seals of Tianchao are there in the world? That''s why there are many empires, but emperor dynasties are rare, and there are even fewer heavenly dynasties, only three," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "Mmm," Zhongshan nodded, showing an understanding expression. However, waves of excitement surged in his heart. The method to ascend to a heavenly dynasty? Only the rulers of the three major dynasties knew? No, there''s also me, and there''s my ''Forging the Heavenly Court''. In the world, there are four people who know.

 Chapter 189: Returning to the Nest after the Rain, the Empty City Strategy

    <h4>Chapter 189: Returning to the Nest after the Rain, the Empty City Strategy</h4>


    "The Da Ye Empire is mobilizing its entire forces to exterminate all sects? Not leaving a single one?" Princess Qianyou asked after some thought.


    "They''re indeed wiping out all sects, but it''s not about leaving none. Anyone who surrenders or is captured will be imprisoned," Suifeng frowned and said.


    "Imprisoned?" Princess Qianyou looked puzzled.


    "Yes, imprisoned. No one knows what the Da Ye Empire is up to. ording to Elder''s words, it''s for the Imperial Seal of Tianchao, but there''s no need for such ughter. They could just drive away the people from the various sects," Suifeng furrowed his brows, pondering.


    "Hmm," Just then, a figure suddenly appeared outside the Jade Bnce Hall.


    An apparently ordinary old man.


    "Guardian, I''ve seen the Elder," the old man who entered the hall immediately said.


    The guardian of the Yuheng Sect?


    "Guardian? Where did youe from?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    In the sect, when an important matter required the Elder''s judgment, both the Mountain Guardian and the Sect Guardian would appear together. Now, only the Sect Guardian appeared alone, indicating that the Sect Guardian had just returned from outside.


    "When the Guardian returned, he happened to see the retreat of the Ten Thousand Wolves. Thanks to the Elder, the Guardian has just returned from near the Baji Sect to the north," the Sect Guardian said immediately.


    "Guardian, did you go to find out about the movements of the Da Ye Empire?" Suifeng immediately exined.


    Hearing Suifeng''s exnation, Princess Qianyou nodded.


    "How''s it outside?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "The Da Ye Empire has now cleared the southern, western, and northern parts of the Great Yin Mountains. Now, they are systematically clearing the various sects to the east of the Great Yin Mountains. Eight hours ago, the Baji Sect resisted desperately, but their entire sect was wiped out. The Da Ye Empire collected their bodies and froze them all," the Sect Guardian said.


    "Collecting bodies? Freezing? What does the Da Ye Empire want?" Suifeng asked in astonishment.


    "Sixteen hours ago, the Da Ye Empire''s army ttened the Ningyou Temple. Three hundred disciples of the Ningyou Temple died, and their bodies were collected and frozen. Another two hundred disciples were sealed with their true essence and detained. I don''t know what they''re up to, but the momentum... In less than three days, they will definitely be at our Yuheng Sect," the Sect Guardian said solemnly.


    "Three days? They''ll be here in three days?" Suifeng said with great concern.


    "Yes, at most three days," the Sect Guardian said solemnly.


    "Sixteen hours ago at the Ningyou Temple, eight hours ago at the Baji Sect. Does this mean that the Da Ye Empire''s army is only capturing and massacring disciples of various sects and not doing anything else?" Master Shuijing, shaking his feather fan, asked in confusion.


    "Yes, they''re not doing anything else, just capturing people and corpses," the Sect Guardian said.


    "What about the strength of their army?" Princess Qianyou asked after some thought.


    "The Da Ye Empire has a history of a thousand years. Although it''s just an empire, its strength is exceptionally terrifying. Since the three major sects have been wiped out and only the east of the Great Yin Mountains is left, they have gathered their forces. The Da Ye Empire has mobilized five major army corps, with the elite troops of four of them dispatched. Themanders of the four army corps are all experts at the Combined Dao Realm, with many Yuan Infant stage experts under theirmand, nearly thirty thousand Golden Core stage experts, rapidly annihting the various sects," the Sect Guardian said.


    "Thirty thousand?" Gu Lin sneered, showing a disdainful look.


    Seeing Gu Lin, Zhongshan was speechless. This person is too ignorant!


    "With such elite troops, it''s indeed like no one can stop them around here. Even if the various sects join forces to resist, it''s difficult to resist. Moreover, they are now systematically exterminating them one by one," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Yes, with such a huge army lineup, once they arrive at the Yuheng Sect, it will be more terrifying than the previous wolf disaster," Master Shuijing nodded.


    "Heh, don''t be afraid. Since Qianyou and I are here, what''s the Da Ye Empire? Naturally, they won''t dare to mess with the Yuheng Sect,"


    "Qianyou is the princess of the Da Luo Tian Dynasty. Even I, they wouldn''t dare to offend," Gu Lin said confidently.


    However, Zhongshan, Master Shuijing, and Princess Qianyou looked at Gu Lin in astonishment. Using their status to oppress them?


    "Prince, the Da Ye Empire is not subordinate to our Da Luo Tian Dynasty. Using our status may not work, especially since their actions this time are very strange. They won''t care about our identities, and they might even kill to cover their tracks," Master Shuijing shook his head.


    "What? Then what should we do? Shuijing, you need to think of a solution quickly," Gu Lin said, first surprised, then immediately worried upon hearing Master Shuijing''s words.


    Looking at Gu Lin, Master Shuijing sighed with a bitter smile.


    "The cmity of war is no less than the wolf disaster. Master, can you negotiate with them?" Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan.


    This time, Princess Qianyou directly addressed Zhongshan as "Master," without any mention of concealing their identities before. Master Shuijing felt it was natural, while Gu Lin looked at her with confusion.


    Zhongshan smiled bitterly and said, "Negotiating with beasts may work. If negotiation fails, we can find another way. However, this time, there''s only one chance. The Da Ye Empire''s momentum is unstoppable. They''re bent on annihting sects, capturing and killing. If negotiation were effective, the many sects wouldn''t have been wiped out. Obviously, the Da Ye Empire has its own schemes, hidden in the shadows, unlike the directness of the wolf disaster. Negotiation is difficult and almost futile."


    Taking a deep breath, Princess Qianyou nodded, understanding the severity of the situation.


    "So we''ll have to find another way," Princess Qianyou said.


    At this point, everyone fell silent, continuously pondering the current situation and thinking about how to face it. Three dayster, the Da Ye Empire would arrive at the Yuheng Sect, and it would undoubtedly be a bloody massacre. Surrendering was not feasible either, as it would only lead to more restrictions on their freedom.


    What should they do?


    Zhongshan, Master Shuijing, and Princess Qianyou thought for a while, and the others didn''t dare to interrupt, waiting for the replies of these three exceptionally intelligent individuals.


    Gu Lin looked at Princess Qianyou, then cast a cold nce at Zhongshan, and finally looked at Master Shuijing expectantly.


    The three of them seemed to have figured something out and jumped out of their own contemtive state, looking at the others.


    "Shuijing, what''s your n? Speak up," Gu Lin immediately urged, as if afraid that Zhongshan would speak first.


    Princess Qianyou nced at Gu Lin, her brows slightly furrowed, while Zhongshan showed a faint smile. This Gu Lin was indeed charmingly foolish.


    Master Shuijing shook his head with a bitter smile.


    "Master Shuijing, since Gu Lin asked, what''s your n? Speak up," Princess Qianyou smiled at Master Shuijing.


    "Yeah, if you have a n, just say it," Gu Lin frowned,ining.


    With a wry smile, Master Shuijing said, "The Da Ye Empire will arrive in three days, and the Yuheng Sect is in a hopeless situation. To resolve the current dilemma, we can only break free from this hopeless situation and abandon the sect."


    "Abandon the sect?" Suifeng furrowed his brows.


    In Suifeng''s heart, the Yuheng Sect was his roots, how could he just abandon it? Moreover, the location of the Yuheng Sect was not simple; it was an extremely important point set by the Seven Star Hall, a point falling on thend of God Zhou.


    "After the rain, return home; the empty city strategy?" Princess Qianyou smiled. Zhongshan nodded beside her.


    "Are we all leaving the Yuheng Sect?" Suifeng frowned.


    "Not only leave, but also dismantle all the major formations of the Yuheng Sect. Take everything with us, or better yet, make it look messy. Let the people of the Da Ye Empire think that the disciples of the Yuheng Sect were scared away," Master Shuijing said confidently.


    "But there are rules in the sect, and the Yuheng Sect must not be lost," Suifeng said with a hint of difficulty.


    "Who said we would lose the Yuheng Sect? The Da Ye Empire is only capturing and killing people now. Once the people are gone, what else will they capture? Won''t they just quickly wipe out the next sect? When things settle down here, we cane back. As long as the people are still here, the Yuheng Sect will still exist," Master Shuijing said confidently.


    "Exactly. As long as the mountain stands, and the people are here, it''s just a temporary separation. What''s wrong with that?" Princess Qianyou nodded.


    "Then where will the people of our Yuheng Sect go?" Suifeng sighed softly, nodding in agreement. Since the elder agreed, he had nothing more to say. Besides, there was no other option at the moment.


    "The world is vast. Where can''t we hide? Head east. When things settle down here, we cane back," Master Shuijing said.


    "Okay," Suifeng nodded.


    On the side, Gu Lin looked triumphant, as if he hade up with the solution himself, and provocatively looked at Zhongshan.


    Seeing Gu Lin''s expression, Zhongshan almost rolled his eyes. What a fool, aplete fool!


    "Master, what do you think?" Princess Qianyou immediately turned to Zhongshan.


    "I think what Master Shuijing said is very good. After the rain, return home; the empty city strategy. However, I have a little something to add. To alleviate the spiritual trauma of the disciples of the Yuheng Sect after leaving the sect," Zhongshan said after some thought.


    Alleviate the spiritual trauma of the disciples of the Yuheng Sect? Everyone looked at Zhongshan strangely. Spiritual trauma? Indeed, the Yuheng Sect was the root of many disciples. Once they had to leave to avoid the disaster of war, they would definitely feel disappointed and sad, just like a mortal being driven out of their home and unable to return. Who wouldn''t feel sad? Although they didn''t say it out loud, there was always a bitter feeling in their hearts.


    Everyone looked at Zhongshan strangely.


    "With the Da Ye Empire rapidly exterminating sects, relentlessly moving forward, won''t the sects they''ve destroyed be left deserted? Most of the valuables inside have been looted, but there''s one thing they can''t take away for a while: the spiritual stone mine. During this time, if any courageous disciples dare to go to the sites of the destroyed sects while they''re empty and dig up more spiritual stones, they can turn their grief into strength. The more effort they put in, the more they''ll gain," Zhongshan said bluntly.


    "Huh?" Everyone looked at Zhongshan in confusion.


    This seemed like taking advantage of the situation, buting from Zhongshan''s mouth, it sounded like a noble cause. Suifeng couldn''t ept it for a while, and even Gu Lin was stunned.


    Only Princess Qianyou and Master Shuijing nodded, with a hint of admiration in their eyes.


    Master Shuijing had thought of this during the election for the Unmatched City. Indeed, shamelessness made one invincible!


    Princess Qianyou sighed at Zhongshan''s ability to turn the tables, turning adversity into advantage. This way, the Yuheng Sect not only suffered no losses but also gained a lot of benefits. At least for those low-generation disciples, as long as they had the courage, they could go and explore. It wasn''t just about the spiritual stone mine; there might even be other hidden treasures to be found.


    "Alright, it''s settled then," Princess Qianyou nodded.

 Chapter 190: The Name of the Cave, Heavenly Tribulation

    <h4>Chapter 190: The Name of the Cave, Heavenly Tribtion</h4>


    Three dayster, a dozen or so people stood at the summit of a high mountain: Zhongshan, Qianyou, Gulin, Shuijing, Ada, A''er, the guardians and the five first-generation disciples of the Yuheng Sect.


    Together, they stood at the top of the mountain, looking in the distant direction. It was so far away that even Zhongshan couldn''t see the target everyone was focusing on.


    Zhongshan closed his eyes and waited. Since he couldn''t see, he could still imagine the scene in the distance.


    The direction they were looking at was the location of the Yuheng Sect.


    At this moment, in front of the Yuheng Sect, stood four heavily armed warriors at the forefront, followed by more than thirty thousand soldiers.


    These four warriors were themanders of the Da Ye Empire''s army. Seeing that the entire Yuheng Sect had abandoned their sect and fled, they were stunned.


    "These people from the Yuheng Sect have no backbone," one of themanders said.


    "It''s because we scared them to death," anothermander said.


    "Now that there''s no one here, how do we fulfill His Majesty''s orders?"


    "The next sect then, there are still eight left."


    "This is bad. If the people of the Yuheng Sect have no backbone and abandon their sect, will the next eight sects follow suit?"


    "Exactly, we need to act quickly. Each of us fourmanders will take care of two sects. We must be fast and not dy His Majesty''s grand n."


    "Let''s go!"


    Following the decision of themanders, eachmander led eight thousand soldiers and quickly left. This time, they dispersed and quickly moved towards the other four sects.


    In no time, all the soldiers under the Yuheng Sect had left.


    At the top of a distant mountain peak.


    "Whew~"


    All the people from the Yuheng Sect heaved a long sigh of relief. They had left, the people from the Da Ye Empire had really left. They hadn''t even entered the sect, and they had suddenly left like this?


    Seeing the expressions of Suifeng and the others, Zhongshan could also guess what had happened. It must have been a sess.


    "Thank you, elders, thank you, everyone," Suifeng said respectfully.


    "Um," everyone nodded.


    "This matter is likely rted to the Great Yu Mountain Range. The people of the Yuheng Sect should not return for the time being. I will go to the Great Yu Mountain Range to see the results and then make arrangements," Princess Qianyou said after some thought.


    "Yes," Suifeng immediately agreed.


    "The Da Ye army has left, and the guardians and I need to return," Guardian suddenly spoke up.


    "You''re going back?" Princess Qianyou frowned slightly.


    "Yes, the task of the guardians is to guard the mountain gate. Since the army has left, we naturally need to return to our posts," Guardian nodded.


    "Um," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    The two elders bowed respectfully to everyone and then disappeared into the direction of the Yuheng Sect like a sh of light.


    "It''s good for the guardians to go back. With their cultivation, even if the Da Ye Empire''s armyes again, they can still retreat unscathed," Suifeng nodded.


    "This matter is likely rted to the Great Yinyue Mountain Range. The people of the Yuheng Sect should not return for the time being. I will go to the Great Yinyue Mountain Range to see the results and then deal with it," Princess Qianyou said after some thought.


    "Yes," Li Suifeng immediately agreed��


    Three dayster, Zhongshan and the others finally arrived at the so-called Great Yinyue Mountain Range.


    Outside the Great Yinyue Mountain Range, they settled on the summit of a mountain, each of them with a serious expression.


    "Shuijing, this area just now, were they the tenth batch of prisoners? And now, outside the Great Yinyue Mountain Range, are all the cultivators imprisoned? And those frozen cultivator corpses? What are they going to do?" Gulin frowned.


    "I''m not sure, but outside the Great Yinyue Mountain Range, there are endless soldiers. It seems that the Grand Enterprise Empire has mobilized all its forces for the sake of the Royal Seal," Shuijing said with a frown, pondering.


    Zhongshan looked into the distance, where it was pitch-ck, filled with miasma. A whole mountain range,pletely dark. Many mountains, rivers, and valleys, even in broad daylight, looked terrifying and ominous. There were very few living creatures in the mountains, only some demonic crows that could withstand such an environment. At a nce, one could only see some jet-ck crows. A kind of demonic crow, nothing else.


    "Hiss..."


    Princess Qianyou suddenly took a cold breath, her face full of horror.


    "Princess, did you find something?" Shuijing asked immediately.


    "It''s not right, it''s really not right. This shouldn''t be happening!" Princess Qianyou''s eyes were filled with incredulity.


    "What''s wrong? Qianyou, what''s not right?" Gulin asked in confusion.


    "Based on our previous spection, this is a celestial tomb, the tomb of the Emperor of the Heavenly Dynasty. But this cave is wrong, very wrong," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "This cave is wrong?" Gulin was puzzled.


    "Yes, when I was at the Yuheng Sect, I didn''t notice it, but after returning to the Heavenly Dynasty and studying with the Tiao for some time, I''ve learned about countless tombs across the world. Although I''m not proficient in it, I recognize this cave. How could the Emperor of the Heavenly Dynasty choose such a tomb for himself? It shouldn''t be!" Princess Qianyou looked around again and again, as if trying to find the difference to dispel her doubts.


    "What kind of tomb is this?" Shuijing asked in confusion.


    "The number one ominous cave in the world, named ''Heavenly Tribtion''," Princess Qianyou said solemnly.


    "Heavenly Tribtion? How is that possible? Princess, are you sure you''re not mistaken?" Shuijing looked incredulous.


    "I''m not wrong! ''Heavenly Tribtion, the lonely high vein, is entirely interconnected. Surrounded by revered veins, theter veins are low and pull back. When the mighty warriors rise, theter sects are extinguished.'' This is the song of Heavenly Tribtion Cave. Once this cave appears, it means the destruction of descendants, the destruction of sects, and the end of bloodlines. It is the number one ominous cave in the world," Princess Qianyou pointed ahead and said.


    "How could this be possible? That''s an Emperor of the Heavenly Dynasty. How could he choose such a tomb? Does he want to annihte his descendants? Could it be that the feng shui master at the time deliberately deceived him?" Gulin was amazed.


    "Deceived? That''s an Emperor of the Heavenly Dynasty. How could he be deceived? Without his consent, how could this ce be turned into a tomb? It must have been with his consent. However, what was his purpose? The Heavenly Tribtion ominous cave? And..." Princess Qianyou narrowed her eyes.


    "And what?" Gulin immediately asked.


    "And before, Li Suifeng mentioned that on the night of the full moon, there would be ghosts roaming inside. So besides being a tomb, there must be something else here," Princess Qianyou said in a deep voice.


    "What else?" Gulin was astonished.


    "The Fengshui Great Array, a Fengshui Great Array that remains powerful even after tens of thousands of years, such a powerful Fengshui Great Array, in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, only Tian Lao could possibly set up, no, even Tian Lao might not be able to set up an array that would influence Fengshui for tens of thousands of years." Princess Qianyou eximed, shocked by her own spection. At this moment, even Princess Qianyou herself was stunned.


    "Princess, I''ve heard of Fengshui Great Arrays, but how are they rted to battle formations and static formations?" Zhongshan suddenly asked.


    Looking at Zhongshan, Princess Qianyou was surprised for a moment, but still nodded and said, "Currently, there are three main systems of cultivation in the world: umting virtue, pursuing fame, and practicing Fengshui. Each field is quite different, especially Fengshui practice. There are very few practitioners in the world, and it is usually passed down within a single lineage. Fengshui Great Arrays arerge arrays that can only be set up by Fengshui practitioners. This kind of array is not the same system as battle formations and static formations. To us, it''s an extremely mysterious formation. A simple Fengshui Great Array can protect prosperity and disaster, while a sophisticated one is beyond my understanding. However, there''s one here. After today, we''ll be able to see it tomorrow night."


    "Yes," Zhongshan nodded.


    "As Princess said, the tomb of the Heavenly Dynasty''s emperor was built in this Heavenly Tribtion ominous cave, and even an extremely ominous Fengshui Great Array was set up on the periphery. This tomb is quite intriguing. The Emperor of the Heavenly Dynasty''s thoughts at that time were also intriguing?" Shuijing shook his feather fan, frowning.


    "Let''s wait until tomorrow night. Perhaps we''ll find some clues then," Princess Qianyou said with a frown.


    "Mm," everyone nodded.


    Everything about this situation was so bizarre! ��


    To the north of Zhongshan and his group, in a distant valley, stood two ck-d figures. One was a young man with a broad red sword on his back, looking coldly at some passing soldiers in the distance. Behind the young man was another middle-aged man with a broad sword on his back. However, the middle-aged man seemed to be like a servant, standing behind him with his head bowed.


    "Chu Ba, how many young masters have gathered this time? Are there still a few who haven''t gone?" the young man asked in a deep voice, not looking at the middle-aged man.


    "Young Master, besides you, there are three young masters who haven''t gone, including Sword Proud Young Master," Chu Ba replied respectfully.


    "Huh, Sword Proud? He''s still so persistent, trying to surpass all the heroes in the world? Creating his own swordsmanship? Despite the endless swordsmanship in the Wan Sword Pavilion, he still disdains it and wants to create his own? Without umtion, how can he create a sword?" The young man sneered.


    "Yes, Young Master. In this way, Sword Proud Young Master will definitely take a long detour, and the gap between him and Young Master will only widen. The bet made in the past is gradually leaning towards you, Young Master," Chu Ba nodded.


    "No, although Sword Proud is persistent, hisprehension is extraordinary. And among us young masters, who is easy to deal with? Don''t underestimate anyone," the young man said in a deep voice.


    "Yes, Young Master, Chu Ba was wrong," Chu Ba immediately bowed.


    "Chu Ba, Mo Luo?" Suddenly, a loud shout came from the sky.


    The strength of the voice seemed to pierce through the clouds, shaking the earth for miles around. There was a hint of surprise and provocation in the tone.


    Both Chu Ba and the young man looked up at the sky at the same time.

 Chapter 191: Sacred Land

    <h4>Chapter 191: Sacred Land</h4>


    "Inarcul eight Moluo ~~~~~~~~~~~~" In the sky, a loud shout resounded, and everyone looked in the direction of the sound, only to see a peak of a mountain. At this moment, a bald monk stood there, with his clothes draped diagonally, exposing his left shoulder, wearing an expression of surprise and a hint of provocation.


    Arge number of soldiers quickly surrounded him, but the monk seemed to ignore thempletely, as if he didn''t care about these soldiers at all, instead provocatively looking at the two ck-d figures below in the valley.


    "Hoo, hoo..."


    With a few leaps, the ck-d youth quickly jumped to the top of another mountain with Inarcul Eight, facing each other across a valley.


    Inarcul Eight Moluo, obviously referring to the person behind the youth who looked like a servant.


    "Who goes there? How dare you~~~~~~~~~~~~" The shouts of the soldiers below in the valley could be heard, as more than a hundred soldiers quickly pointed their long spears at the top of the mountain and were ready to charge up.


    "Hoo~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A silhouette flew in from afar, obviously attracted by the shout.


    The silhouette stopped on top of another mountain. It was a man in military uniform, who was one of the legionmanders who had recently besieged the Jade Heng Sect.


    "Greetings, General," the soldiers immediately bowed.


    The legionmander waved his hand, and the soldiers quickly retreated. He looked at the people on the other two mountain tops, squinted his eyes, bowed slightly, and said, "Please, I hope you won''t disrupt His Majesty''s n."


    The people on the other two mountain tops nced at the legionmander, smiled faintly, and then ignored him, obviously not taking him seriously at all.


    Seeing the three people ignoring him, the legionmander frowned slightly, a hint of helplessness shing in his eyes, but he didn''t erupt, instead turned around and flew away towards where he came from.


    Standing in the distance, Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou and the others saw the strange scene in the distance. Even Zhongshan narrowed his eyes at the two mountain tops. What kind of people were there? A loud shout came from afar and reached his ears. However, only one shout could be heard; after that, no other sound could be heard.


    In the distance, Inarcul Eight stood behind the youth, looking at the big monk in front.


    "Huiguang Luohan," Inarcul Eight said lightly. However, it seemed like he was just informing the youth in front of him.


    The big monk, Huiguang Luohan, gradually shifted his gaze to the young man in front of Inarcul Eight.


    "Devilish youth? Inarcul Eight Moluo, I didn''t expect you to be a servant of a ''devilish youth'' now." Huiguang Luohan smiled slightly, his tone not very friendly.


    "Heh, protecting the young master is Inarcul Eight''s honor, just like you want to protect the ''reincarnated spiritual child.'' Are you a servant too?" Inarcul Eight said coldly.


    "Huiguang Luohan doesn''t need to protect the reincarnated spiritual child. He follows the Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva. I just don''t know why Huiguang Luohan is here?" the youth suddenly asked.


    "Who are you?" Huiguang Luohan stared at the youth.


    The youth smirked wickedly and said, "Don''t you know that I''m a devilish youth? Remember, my name is Xie Yan." ��


    Zhongshan looked at the three people talking in the distance, his brow furrowing slightly.


    "Shuijing, who are they?" Ge Lin asked, frowning.


    Hearing Ge Lin''s question, Zhongshan pricked up his ears to listen.


    "That''s Huiguang Luohan from the Pure Land of Bliss, who has always followed the Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva. I don''t know why he''s here," Shuijing said with a frown.


    "Sacrednd, the Pure Land of Bliss?" Ge Lin eximed in surprise.


    "Indeed, and the other ck-d figure, the older-looking one, I''ve seen his portrait in the records of the Great Luo Dynasty. That middle-aged man is called ''Inarcul Eight Moluo,'' from the Underworld Heaven," Mr. Shuijing said.


    "Sacrednd, Underworld Heaven?" Ge Lin eximed in surprise again.


    "Yes," Mr. Shuijing nodded.


    "What does ''sacrednd'' mean?" Zhongshan suddenly asked.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s question, everyone paused for a moment, and even Ge Lin looked at Zhongshan with a look of disbelief. Didn''t he even know what a sacrednd was?


    Zhongshan naturally didn''t know, and there was no need to pretend to know. At the same time, in the face of Ge Lin''s gaze, Zhongshan could directly ignore it.


    Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan and said, "In the cultivation of merits and fame, the pinnacle of power is the Three Great Dynasties, while in the cultivation of virtues, the pinnacle is the Four Great Sacred Lands. ''Pure Land of Bliss'' and ''Underworld Heaven'' are two of these sacrednds. There are countless strong individuals, and although the number of people in a sacrednd may not be as many as in a dynasty, the peak expertspared to a dynasty are not inferior. It''s just that their cultivation systems are different."


    "Do they never vie for supremacy in the world?" Zhongshan frowned and asked.


    "I''ve already said that because their cultivation systems are different, their cultivation doesn''t concern the world, so there''s no need to vie for supremacy. And even if they wanted to, they couldn''t," Princess Qianyou said solemnly.


    "Okay," Zhongshan nodded.


    Cultivation of merits and fame, the Three Great Dynasties!


    Cultivation of virtues, the Four Great Sacred Lands!


    But what about cultivation of feng shui? There were only a few people cultivating feng shui in the Divine Land, but what kind of existence were they?


    (Note: Regarding the rtionship between sacrednds and dynasties, you can refer to the rtionship between the Great Thunder Monastery and the Heavenly Court in "Journey to the West," but here in terms of power, the dynasty is not weaker than the sacrednd, and even...)


    "Mr. Shuijing, why do you think they are here?" Princess Qianyou frowned and asked.


    "Huiguang Luohan follows the Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva. At the moment, the Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva hasn''te, and it''s only him here. Just now, when he saw Inarcul Eight, he unexpectedly shouted loudly, indicating that he came here not with a very important purpose. There''s a good chance that he''s just passing by," Mr. Shuijing analyzed.


    "That''s right. Acting so ostentatiously can only mean passing by, or perhaps there''s a slight connection between a nearby sect and the Pure Land of Bliss, which attracted Huiguang Luohan to take a look," Princess Qianyou said.


    "In that case, with Inarcul Eight Moluo and Huiguang Luohan, two extraordinary experts appearing, Emperor Daye will have a headache," Mr. Shuijing chuckled.


    "Isn''t this even better?" Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Exactly, the more people, the better," Mr. Shuijing nodded in agreement. Obviously, the more people there were, the better for stirring up trouble. After all, the Great Daye Dynasty had mobilized all its forces. For Princess Qianyou and her group to try to aplish their goals in such a situation was clearly not an easy task.


    Just as everyone was smiling at the scene in the distance, suddenly, both Mr. Shuijing and Princess Qianyou''s pupils contracted at the same time.


    "Discovered?" Princess Qianyou eximed in surprise.


    At that moment, Zhongshan saw that hundreds of ck dots suddenly flew out of the sky in the distance.


    The hundreds of ck dots scattered in the sky, as if raindrops were falling, and they scattered towards more than a hundred different ces in the Great Yumou Mountains. One of the ck dots was heading towards Zhongshan and the others. It was moving so fast that it was almost upon them in an instant.


    A huge mountain, with dazzling golden light suddenly emanating from the top, rushed towards the direction where Zhongshan was.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Ada and A''er simultaneously let out a loud roar, quickly sped their fists, slightly crouched down, and leaped, each fiercely punching towards the bottom of the iing mountain.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The four fists collided with the flying mountain, emitting a deafening roar. From the point of collision, arge amount of golden light radiated in all directions. However, the force of the flying mountain was too strong. No, it wasn''t just the weight of the mountain anymore; it seemed as if there was a powerful force at the top of the mountain.


    Under the mountain, Zhongshan only felt a strong oppression, an invisible pressure pressing down from above, too strong. This momentum seemed like heavenly might, attempting to bend Zhongshan''s legs.


    But Zhongshan would not be forced to kneel. He gritted his teeth, veins bulging on his forehead as he endured.


    It was too powerful. Even Ada and A''er, two pinnacle Yuan Ying experts, couldn''t resist. They were oppressed by this vast force descending from the sky, the giant mountain descending as if it could instantly tten everyone.


    Just then, Mr. Shuijing''s brows furrowed slightly, and he lightly waved the feather fan in his hand upwards.


    Zhongshan only saw the tips of the feathers on the fan suddenly emit a blue light, as if a group of long whips were being swung. The blue light flicked, as if a group of whips were being swung from one side of the mountain to the other. It seemed as if they hadn''t touched the mountain at all.


    But with this swing, the golden light on the mountain dispersed, and Ada and A''er seemed to regain the upper hand. With a sudden burst of force, the mountain flew towards a nearby valley.


    "Swoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The mountain instantly turned into a pile of rubble. No, when Zhongshan looked over, he realized that it wasn''t Ada and A''er who had broken the mountain, but Mr. Shuijing. Each of those blue whips had sliced the mountain in half. The rubble below was mostly in long strips, all cleaved by Mr. Shuijing''s fan?


    Ada and A''er were both pinnacle Yuan Ying stage experts, yet even they couldn''t withstand the force of the mountain. Meanwhile, Mr. Shuijing, a schr-like figure, merely waved his fan? And the mountain shattered into pieces?


    At the same time, Zhongshan saw in the distance where Huiguang Luohan and Inarcul Eight Moluo were located, two mountains were pressing towards them respectively. Both of them casually struck out a palm.


    "p" "p"


    The two flying mountains were pped away one after another.


    Luohan? Moluo? Was this the power of Luohan? The strength of Moluo?


    Only two ces blocked the flying mountains, their own side, and where Huiguang Luohan was located. The other more than a hundred mountains had all settled, and if they were specifically targeting the strong around the Great Yumou Mountains, then it was easy to imagine what happened to the other ces being crushed by the mountains.


    "It''s been a long time since Mr. Shuijing made a move. He''s still as powerful as ever," Princess Qianyou sighed.


    "Princess is too kind." Mr. Shuijing shook his head modestly.


    "Phew, so powerful. What just happened with the flying mountains?" Ge Lin exhaled deeply, looking horrified.


    "It should be Emperor Daye. He just made a move," Princess Qianyou said with a slightly narrowed eyes, her expression solemn.

 Chapter 192 - 192 Ghosts and Corpses Run Rampant

    <h4>Chapter 192: Ghosts and Corpses Run Rampant</h4>


    "The Emperor Daye, so powerful!" Mr. Shuijing shook his fan and frowned.


    "Emperor Daye, what is he doing? Why send flying mountains?" Ge Lin frowned.


    "He is warning all outsiders. This is a warning, the most straightforward warning," Mr. Shuijing shook his fan.


    "Emperor Daye, at most, he''s only at the ''Emperor Realm,'' right? Otherwise, he would haveunched a war, attacked the Imperial Dynasty, and seized the Imperial Seal long ago. The Emperor Realm is equivalent to Luohan and Moluo over there, right? Shuijing, aren''t you also at the Emperor Realm?" Ge Lin frowned.


    "It is the Emperor Realm, but the Emperor Realm also varies, just like the first and ninth levels of the Yuan Ying stage. The strength is not equal. This Emperor Daye is very confident, so he''s giving everyone a warning. And until now, I just found out where he is, but he found us long ago and found the strong people around the Great Yumou Mountains, warning them with the flying mountains." Mr. Shuijing frowned.


    Above the Unity Stage is the Emperor Realm. The Emperor Realm is already an absolute powerhouse. Zhongshan encountered in the Emperor Realm, such as Qingyun Wolf General, the three elders of the Dajing Dynasty''s Tai Danyuan, themander of the First Legion of the Dayu Empire, Iron Blood General, and the Purple Xun Elder. These people are all likely in the Emperor Realm. True powerhouses.


    However, such powerhouses are rare, extremely rare. It''s just because of Zhongshan''s luck that he has encountered so many. Otherwise, with Zhongshan''s cultivation level, he wouldn''t have had any contact. It''s too far away.


    "Emperor Daye, he''s too arrogant," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Under absolute strength, he has the capital to be arrogant," Mr. Shuijing looked into the distance.


    Zhongshan couldn''t see where Emperor Daye was. He could only see Huiguang Luohan and Inarcul Eight Moluo in the distance. They both quieted down and looked in the direction of the northwest together. Obviously, like Mr. Shuijing, they discovered the so-called Daye Empire, the strongest nearby.


    "What should we do now?" Ge Lin showed a hint of worry.


    "Don''t worry, with me here, even if we can''t defeat Emperor Daye, we''ll have enough to protect ourselves. Even protecting you, my lord, is enough." Mr. Shuijing said with utmost confidence.


    Hearing Mr. Shuijing''s words, Ge Lin breathed a sigh of relief and immediately felt relieved.


    "Master," Princess Qianyou called out.


    "Yes," Zhongshan nodded.


    "If there''s danger, Master should retreat first and go back to the Yuheng Sect." Princess Qianyou said.


    "Okay," Zhongshan said very directly.


    "Ada," Princess Qianyou called out.


    "Yes," Ada immediately responded.


    "Your task now is to protect Master with all your strength, without letting Master suffer any harm. If there is any mishap, you will be responsible." Princess Qianyou said solemnly.


    "Yes," Ada immediately promised.


    The next evening, a bright moon slowly rose into the sky. The time hade. Everyone calmed down because the anomaly of the Great Yumou Mountains was about to begin.


    Throughout the day, Zhongshan had been frowning and looking at the people imprisoned in all directions. What did Emperor Daye want with these people? What exactly was he going to do with them? And those frozen corpses.


    The gloomy Great Yumou Mountains, even before the anomaly began, looked extremely eerie and terrifying.


    "Woo~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, a wolf howl sounded, piercing through the sky. It was here, the precursor to the anomaly had begun.


    "Hum~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The Great Yumou Mountains, the entire mountain range, suddenly emitted arge amount of ck gas from the ground, even darker than miasma.


    The endless ck gas surged into the sky, like a sudden breach in a river embankment, pouring out wildly.


    The ck gas, as ck as ink, rose into the sky in a square shape. Along with this anomaly, countless terrifying sounds suddenly came from within the ck gas environment.


    There were wolf howls, ghostly cries, corpse roars, and mncholic women''s voices.


    "Woo~~~" "Howl~~~"...


    For a moment, the sounds of fear echoed continuously within the ck gas environment. In the moonlit night, it seemed even colder, sending shivers down one''s spine.


    The ck gas surged into the sky, rising to a height of a thousand feet before abruptly stopping, forming a square-shaped canopy over the Great Yumou Mountains.


    "Ao~~~" "Ao~~~"...


    Nine dragon roars instantly shattered the cries of ghosts and wolves, breaking through the sky from within the ck gas environment. At the same time, the entire ck gas environment trembled, just like the scene Zhongshan witnessed in the Yuheng Sect not long ago. Nine ink dragons soared into the sky, breaking through the ck gas environment. In the sky, they danced wildly, each dragon thousands of feet long. Swinging their tails, they swam in all directions. asionally, their heads turned, their eyes glowing red, without whites or pupils, like blind dragons, dancing in the sky.


    Watching this scene, Zhongshan couldn''t help but swallow his saliva, his eyes full of uncertainty. Should he go in?


    Certainly, it was extremely dangerous to enter right now. After all, Liusuifeng had a Yuan Ying stage cultivation and was forced out when he entered. It would be dangerous for him to go in, but in such an environment, if Zhongshan said he didn''t want to take a look, that would be deceiving himself. Moreover, with Ada protecting him with all his strength, just take a look from the outside without going deep into the ck environment.


    "Quick, go in!" Suddenly, a loud shout came from afar.


    Countless soldiers of the Daye Empire were quickly driving the imprisoned cultivators, urging them into the ck gas environment.


    "Hurry up, why aren''t you moving?" Amidst the continuous mor, numerous sealed cultivators were continuously driven in. The environment was filled with fear. Arge number of frozen corpses were also brought into the pitch-ck environment.


    Zhongshan took a deep breath. He couldn''t control this matter. Although he felt sympathy, he had no sympathy. He was powerless, and all he could do was watch coldly.


    "Let''s go, we''re going in." Princess Qianyou frowned and spoke.


    After speaking, a white cloud carried everyone and flew to the outskirts of the ck environment. Everyonended, ready to step in. This way, it would be safer.


    The big knife, ''Nightmare,'' was already held in Zhongshan''s hand. Ge Lin sneered. In Ge Lin''s eyes, with Mr. Shuijing and Princess Qianyou, if there was danger, they could protect themselves. If they couldn''t protect themselves, then Zhongshan wouldn''t be able to either.


    Zhongshan ignored Ge Lin''s sneer. Everyone had different principles in handling things. Although there were strong protectors, without a sense of self-preservation, one would definitely die sooner orter.


    The ck gas environment, or rather, it was more like a ck curtain. As everyone stepped into it, they entered a dim environment once again. Although it was nighttime outside, with the moon overhead, making visibility rtively clear, inside, even with Zhongshan''s Golden Core stage cultivation, he felt it was eerie and cold.


    However, upon entering, Zhongshan noticed something strange. The Great Yumou Mountains had disappeared. Gone. The countless mountains and rivers were nowhere to be seen in this ck gas environment. What remained was just an endless in.


    How could this be? Was it an illusion?


    In the center of this in, there was a giant flower bud, a thousand feet tall, reaching straight up to the edge of the ck environment.


    Zhongshan recognized this flower, even in the mortal realm, it was frequently seen. It was called Manjusaka, also known as the ''Flower of Death.'' It was fiery red in color and often grew beside graves. However, this Manjusaka was toorge, and it emitted a blue light, which was extremely eerie.


    As for the cries of ghosts and wolves, they came from this Manjusaka flower, from that Flower of Death.


    On top of the flower bud, Zhongshan saw arge number of evil spirits slowly emerging. These evil spirits had green faces, sharp teeth, and were extremely terrifying. They howled incessantly, as if they were extremely hungry and wanted to feed.


    Evil spirits? They looked disgusting. Not only evil spirits, but arge number of zombies also slowly emerged from the Flower of Death, spreading out in all directions.


    Finally, Zhongshan saw ghosts with normal human appearances, but they looked like zombies, with nk eyes, only whites, and no pupils.


    There were so many undead beings.


    Countless zombies and evil spirits emerged from the Flower of Death. However, each zombie or ghost had a faint blue energy line connecting them to the Flower of Death.


    Undead beings were everywhere, and even some could fly in the air, hovering in this gloomy environment. It seemed to support the entire dark world like a realm of death, extremely eerie.


    Was everything controlled by that Flower of Death?


    Zhongshan swallowed his saliva, and everyone else showed shocked expressions, extremely terrified. What kind of world was this?


    "Princess, do you recognize this environment? Is it an illusion?" Mr. Shuijing immediately asked.


    "I''m not sure. The Great Yumou Mountains disappeared in the blink of an eye, but this environment is also very real. I don''t know where we are. The Fengshui array is like a mixture of reality and illusion. It''s hard to distinguish between them. Perhaps what we''ve seen of the Great Yumou Mountains over the millennia was an illusion, or perhaps the world we see now is also an illusion," Princess Qianyou shook her head, indicating that she was also unsure.


    "What is that flower?" Ge Lin pointed at the thousand-foot-tall flower bud in the center.


    "That should be the source of Fengshui, the key to opening the tomb. It should be that Flower of Death. But, how to open it, I don''t know. Perhaps the Daye Emperor knows, after all, he captured so many cultivators, it''s very likely that he did it to open the tomb," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "In that case, let''s wait. Let''s wait for the Daye Emperor to open the entrance to the tomb," Mr. Shuijing took a deep breath and said.


    "There are too few people who study Fengshui, so there aren''t many precedents to refer to. So, all we can do is wait," Princess Qianyou nodded.

 Chapter 193: The World of Blooming Flowers

    <h4>Chapter 193: The World of Blooming Flowers</h4>


    "Screams!


    Save me!


    No!"


    In the gloomy environment, there were numerous cries of agony. Countless practitioners who had been driven into the midst of zombies and evil spirits were quickly surrounded. Zombies and evil spirits swarmed in, swiftly tearing into the practitioners and devouring chunks of flesh. These practitioners, sealed in their cultivation and possessing only the strength of ordinary warriors, were no match for the thousands of evil spirits and zombies. Moreover, the numbers of these undead creatures were increasing rapidly, bing denser and denser.


    Throughout the gloomy environment, blood sprayed everywhere, and the flesh torn from the victims was barely recognizable. Even the bodies of the frozen practitioners were not spared by the zombies and evil spirits, who greedily feasted upon them. Their blood-soaked bodies littered the ground, turning the ce into a hellish scene that was unbearable to look at.


    "Truly, these zombies and evil spirits are real, not illusions," Ge Lin eximed, his eyes wide with horror. When had he ever witnessed such a terrifying sight? Death itself wasn''t frightening, but being bitten to death and then devoured was horrifying. Ge Lin felt his entire body covered in goosebumps, overwhelmed by fear.


    Meanwhile, Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed as he stared into the distance. Did these zombies and evil spirits need flesh to feed on? The blue energy lines behind them suddenly turned fiery red, as if the devoured practitioners were being transformed into special energy and transmitted to the distant Flower of Death.


    The blue Flower of Death gradually changed color, bing slightly crimson, and then increasingly red.


    "This isn''t an illusion? Of course not, it''s a mixture of reality and illusion," Princess Qianyou said, frowning.


    As nearly ten thousand practitioners or their corpses were devoured by the zombies and evil spirits, their numbers continued to swell. Even those flying in the air increased in number.


    The evil spirits became more and more frenzied, flying into the air and incessantly tearing into the sealed practitioners'' true essence, even lunging at the heavily armed soldiers.


    "Kill!"


    Suddenly, a general''smanding shout rang out from afar, and arge number of soldiers rushed forward with their swords drawn.


    Boom! Boom!


    Team after team of soldiers swung their swords wildly, sending torrents of sword energy crashing toward a particr direction. The terrifying sword energy swept through the area, obliterating everything in its path, reducing them to nothingness or dissipating into a puff of smoke.


    The evil spirits and zombies themselves were not strong, so the soldiers became more courageous, each team of a hundred men unstoppable in their advance.


    "Kill!"


    The teams of soldiers charged into the depths of the group of evil spirits.


    Standing on the outskirts, Ge Lin looked astonished. "What''s happening? They just fed the practitioners to these evil spirits, and now they''re ughtering them?"


    "It''s not a ughter," Mr. Shuijing furrowed his brow.


    "Not a ughter?" Ge Lin was puzzled. Wasn''t it obvious that it was a ughter?


    "The Daye Emperor intends to continue feeding these evil spirits and zombies with these million soldiers," Mr. Shuijing shook his head.


    "Using these soldiers as fodder? But they''re his subjects, his soldiers!" Ge Lin''s expression was one of shock.


    "As emperors and kings, they must have a broad perspective, not caring about the loss of a city, as long as there are greater benefits to be gained. Sacrificing even more soldiers is eptable," Mr. Shuijing said.


    Sure enough, as Mr. Shuijing finished speaking, the first squad of a hundred soldiers that ventured deep into enemy territory had one of its members seized by an evil spirit from above. The squad copsed almost immediately, with arge number of evil spirits and zombies swarming in to devour them. In just a short time, that entire squad was reduced to nothing, their bodiespletely consumed.


    One squad after another followed suit, facing the same grim fate. Even Zhongshan, who was watching from the periphery, couldn''t help but feel a chill. A million soldiers, most of them above the Innate level, all loyal to the Daye Emperor, were all being sacrificed for the emperor''s personal ambition.


    What was the Daye Emperor trying to achieve?


    "It''s opening," Princess Qianyou''s eyes lit up.


    Opening? Zhongshan followed Qianyou''s gaze to see the gigantic flower of death. The flower hadpletely turned blood-red, as if it could drip blood at any moment.


    Fed by the flesh of a million strong practitioners, the flower was finally satiated. The flower of death began to slowly rotate, and the countless evil spirits and zombies suddenly turned into shadows and faded away, as if it had all been a dream. Only the surviving soldiers, witnessing the blood-stained ground, knew that it was all real. They raised their heads and howled at the sky, mourning their friends and brothers��millions ofrades who had died inexplicably, devoured by these illusions.


    The remaining soldiers stood on the blood-soaked battlefield, tears streaming down their faces, but they were destined to be mere pawns in a grand conspiracy. Now, nobody cared about them; everyone''s attention was focused on the center flower of death.


    The flower of death continued to rotate, its petals slowly parting. From the gaps between the petals, an even more sinister ck mist seeped out. The flower was about to bloom, but what would it bring?


    "I remember now, this is the ''World of Blooming Flowers.'' Tian Lao once mentioned the ''World of Blooming Flowers'' in the Feng Shui sealing array," Princess Qianyou suddenly eximed.


    "The World of Blooming Flowers? What is it?" Mr. Shuijing asked.


    "When this flower blooms, it reveals an entirely new world. Only by breaking through this new world can the Feng Shui array bepletely broken," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "A new world? What kind of new world?" Gu Lin asked in surprise.


    "I don''t know. Tian Lao said that each ''World of Blooming Flowers'' is different inside, depending on the flower, creating different worlds. This flower of death, having consumed the flesh and blood of countless practitioners, must have an inner world rted to death. Once we break through that world, the celestial tomb will be truly exposed," Princess Qianyou said, taking a deep breath.


    "A new world built from the flesh and blood of millions?" Zhongshan asked solemnly.


    "It seems so," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    A world constructed from flesh and blood? Zhongshan frowned deeply. A Feng Shui array?


    As the flower of death rotated, circles began to appear around it. Circles upon circles revolved around the central flower of death, and strange characters gradually emerged on the ground.


    Apass? Zhongshan''s brows furrowed. It was apass, simr to the one used by the mud bodhisattva, but instead of eighteen rings, thispass had thirty-six rings.


    "Roar~~! Roar~~!"


    From thepass, eight dragon roars suddenly resounded, each sounding as if they were crying out in endless pain. Gradually, on the massivepass, eight ten-zhang tall golden dragon projections appeared.


    "What is this?" Gu Lin eximed in surprise.


    "Let''s go," Princess Qianyou said, leading everyone quickly towards one of the golden dragon projections.


    "These are the eight dragon veins from the surrounding mountains. This Feng Shui master is incredibly powerful. To set up this ''Flower Blooming World,'' they forcibly trapped the eight dragon veins, continuously channeling the mountain dragon energy into the array for tens of thousands of years. What a grand scale," Princess Qianyou exined as they flew.


    "Eight dragon veins? Are they free now?" Mr. Shuijing asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, the ''Flower Blooming World'' has been opened with the blood and flesh of millions. The eight condensed dragon veins are now severed from their original mountains and will soon dissipate. Hurry," Princess Qianyou urged.


    In no time, they reached one of the ten-zhang tall golden dragon projections. The golden dragon shadow roared in endless pain, never fully formed before being trapped by the Feng Shui array, continuously drained of mountain energy. Now free, it was severed from its source and was on the verge of dispersing��a tragic existence, roaring in its final moments.


    "The golden dragon umtes earthly luck, ascending to divine will. Those below the Nascent Soul stage can cleanse their bodies with this, achieving a temporary state of karmic void. Mr. Shuijing, quickly enter the golden dragon''s body and make a full breakthrough. Otherwise, it will dissipate soon," Princess Qianyou directed Zhongshan.


    Turning his head, Zhongshan looked at Princess Qianyou in surprise. Below the Nascent Soul stage? Doesn''t that include the Nascent Soul stage? Meaning Ada, A''er, and even Gu Lin could use it? Ada and A''er were at the peak of the Nascent Soul stage, and if Princess Qianyou was right, they could potentially reach the Integration stage. As for Gu Lin, being a prince, Princess Qianyou had given this opportunity to him?


    Grateful, Zhongshan nced at Princess Qianyou before decisively rushing into the golden dragon projection. Seeing Zhongshan''s grateful look, Princess Qianyou smiled slightly, a hint of mncholy in her eyes.


    At this moment, in other parts of thepass, six golden dragons wavered and dissipated, unable to even let out a final cry. However, another golden dragon projection had someone entering it��none other than Xie Yan, apanied by Chu Ba Moluo. Xie Yan sat cross-legged as the golden dragon shadow struggled for a moment before merging into his body, with Chu Ba guarding patiently beside him.


    Zhongshan, too, was surrounded by hispanions for protection as he sat cross-legged. The golden dragon shadow struggled briefly before merging into his body and disappearing.


    In an instant, Zhongshan felt an overwhelming surge of energy and enlightenment. The golden dragon''s power coursed through his veins, purging impurities and elevating his cultivation. He was in a state of unprecedented rity and strength, feeling the boundaries of his current stage melt away.


    Minutes felt like hours as Zhongshan''s body and mind underwent a profound transformation. When the golden dragon''s energy was fully absorbed, he stood up, radiating newfound power and confidence. The gratitude towards Princess Qianyou deepened, knowing this opportunity had significantly bolstered his strength and potential.

 Chapter 194: Fengdu Ghost City

    <h4>Chapter 194: Fengdu Ghost City</h4>


    "Qianyou, why give it to him?" Gu Lin immediately shouted.


    Gu Lin was furious. As Qianyou Princess had said, how could such a precious opportunity be given to a mere servant? Void of karmic hindrances, it meant that anyone below the Nascent Soul stage could at least break through one level, maybe even two or three levels. Even though Gu Lin had extraordinary talent, such an opportunity was rare. Qianyou Princess giving it to Zhong Shan only deepened Gu Lin''s resentment towards him.


    Seeing Gu Lin, Qianyou Princess frowned slightly and said, "You have a higher cultivation level than Mr. Zhong. If he breaks through, he can protect himself."


    Hearing Qianyou Princess''s words, Gu Lin could only let it go, but he still felt a lingering anger. He looked coldly at Zhong Shan, his eyes filled with a sinister chill. Even A Da, standing nearby, noticed this, and everyone fell silent.


    Zhong Shan, of course, understood the situation, but Qianyou Princess''s words were too tempting. Void of karmic hindrances was something he had dreamed of. Although he knew Qianyou Princess was bestowing a great favor, Zhong Shan couldn''t refuse. He desperately needed a breakthrough in his cultivation. Never mind, he thought, he would repay this great kindness slowly in the future. For now, he needed to focus on his breakthrough.


    The golden dragon entered his body, transforming instantly into a golden energy, or rather, fortune. The dense golden fortune covered every part of Zhong Shan''s body, even his soul. This kind of dragon fortune was different from the fortune granted to officials in the celestial dynasty, which was continuously connected to the dynasty and enveloped the individual at all times. The dragon fortune would only flush through him briefly before dissipating, so he had to seize this opportunity.


    Zhong Shan focused on his breakthrough. Originally, he had just reached the third level of the Golden Core stage. Normally, it would take at least one or two years to break through further, even in the best cultivation environment. But now, something miraculous happened.


    Void of karmic hindrances, his cultivation level surged. Within just three breaths, Zhong Shan''s cultivation reached the fourth level of the Golden Core stage. There was still two-thirds of the golden dragon fortune left. Should he continue to break through?


    Zhong Shan immediately abandoned that tempting idea. He had something even more important��Hongluan Heavenly Sutra. If he could break through one more level, reaching the fifth level of the Hongluan Heavenly Sutra, something magical would happen. The extraordinary power of the Hongluan Heavenly Sutra would truly manifest.


    Focusing his mind on his brow, the pink lotus bud me quickly began to transform.


    Using up the remaining half of the golden dragon fortune, the lotus finally took shape, no longer a mere bud but a clear and detailed lotus. However, it was slightly closed and needed further breakthrough.


    Sweat appeared on Zhong Shan''s forehead. He needed to break through further, he had to. As thest of the golden dragon fortune was exhausted, it finally happened. The pink lotus bloomed.


    The pink lotus was exquisitely detailed, no longer resembling a flickering me but appearing as a smoke-like form, both ethereal and real. The fifth level of the Hongluan Heavenly Sutra! Foreseeing fortune and misfortune!


    The pink lotus suddenly emitted a faint blue hue. Blue signified misfortune, red signified fortune. Now, with the fifth level of the Hongluan Heavenly Sutra, although Zhong Shan''s awareness wasn''t fully clear, if great misfortune approached, the lotus would turn blue; if great fortune was near, it would turn red.


    This was the extraordinary aspect of the Hongluan Heavenly Sutra, the ability to foresee fortune and misfortune. With this power, once reaching the fifth level, Zhong Shan could foresee and avoid misfortune, seeking fortune instead. This was far more advantageous than merely reaching the fifth level of the Golden Core stage.


    Collecting his thoughts, Zhong Shan took a deep breath, filled with gratitude towards Qianyou Princess. This opportunity not only elevated his cultivation but also prepared him better for future dangers. He knew he would have to repay this kindness someday.


    Zhong Shan trembled slightly with excitement. This golden dragon fortune was unbelievably powerful. If only there were more of it!


    His eyes shed with excitement as he opened them.


    "How do you feel?" Qianyou Princess asked.


    Zhong Shan stood up and bowed slightly to her. "Thank you, Princess."


    He was genuinely grateful. While cultivation could increase with time, breaking through with the Hongluan Heavenly Sutra required a rare opportunity. Zhong Shan knew that as the Hongluan Heavenly Sutra progressed, it became increasingly difficult to advance. It was a mysterious and unusual practice.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s response, Qianyou Princess smiled slightly. This was a great favor, and she wondered how he would repay it.


    Gu Lin stood nearby, his eyes filled with jealousy and a cold stare.


    "Princess, is it possible to produce more of this golden dragon fortune?" Zhong Shan asked immediately.


    "Mass production? How could that be? This is a rare phenomenon, the result of a feng shui array umting power over tens of thousands of years. Such heavenly treasures are extremely rare," Qianyou Princess exined.


    "I see," Zhong Shan nodded, a hint of regret in his eyes. It seemed this was a one-time opportunity.


    Zhong Shan didn''t question why Qianyou Princess hadn''t given the golden dragon fortune to others. There was no need.


    "The flower has bloomed!" Mr. Shui Jing said, frowning.


    Everyone turned to look. Indeed, the enormous corpse flower was slowly blooming on thepass ground, and the first petal had just fallen, covering thepass ground.


    A petal opened up into a new world?


    Zhong Shan watched in amazement as this internal world unfolded like it had been folded inside the flower, only revealing itself as the flower bloomed. What kind of world was this?


    In the distance, many people were flying into it, including Huiguang Arhat, Chuba Moluo, the young man with Chuba Moluo, and a group of soldiers led by a powerful man in a purple dragon robe. This imposing man, with a hand on the hilt of arge sword at his waist, stepped forward boldly.


    "Let''s go in," Qianyou Princess said.


    "Alright," everyone nodded.


    "No," Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    "Hmm?" Everyone looked at Zhong Shan.


    With his eyes slightly closed, the pink lotus on Zhong Shan''s forehead slowly turned blue. Ominous, extremely ominous. For him, entering that ce would bring great misfortune.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan said firmly, "It''s too dangerous inside. I can''t go. You should also reconsider."


    "Hmph, just because you''re afraid doesn''t mean we are," Gu Lin immediately sneered.


    However, Qianyou Princess and Mr. Shui Jing frowned. They knew Zhong Shan wasn''t a coward. He always wanted to see things through, but why did he suddenly decide not to go? He never spoke without reason. Had he sensed something?


    "Why won''t you go?" Qianyou Princess asked, puzzled.


    "My cultivation level is too low, and I fear the dangers inside. I''ll wait outside," Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    The group looked at Zhong Shan with a hint of confusion in their eyes.


    "Alright. A Da, stay here to protect Mr. Zhong. We''ll continue," Qianyou Princess said promptly.


    She wasn''t willing to leave behind the Imperial Jade Seal.


    "Yes," A Da replied immediately.


    Ah Da and Zhong Shan stayed behind, while Princess Qianyou, Mr. Shui Jing, Gu Lin, and Ah Er flew on a white cloud towards the flower world within.


    "Sir, is it very dangerous inside?" Ah Da asked, though there was a hint of eagerness in his eyes. Ah Da wanted to go in and see for himself.


    Ah Da wanted to see, and Zhong Shan did too. But the Red Luan Lotus had turned blue.


    The fifth level of the Red Luan Scripture typically wouldn''t show small fortunes or misfortunes, nor medium ones. It would only show a big fortune or a big misfortune, life-threateningly so, in blue. Now it was blue. How could Zhong Shan dare to take the risk? Even if it was the first time seeing the Red Luan Lotus turn blue, Zhong Shan wasn''t willing to take that gamble. Some risks could be taken, but some absolutely couldn''t.


    A great misfortune, what kind of great misfortune?


    The Dae army, apart from those who were devoured by the ghosts earlier, still had a remaining million troops, but only a few hundred Nascent Soul generals charged in again.


    The flower bloomed, opening wider and wider until it upied one-third of the dark illusion''s length before stopping. Simultaneously, the entire flower gradually blended into the surroundings, slowly disappearing, leaving only a circr area inside, a peculiar circr world.


    It looked like a huge hemispherical dome covering a world, and anyone entering it seemed to shrink a hundred times. No, people didn''t shrink; it just looked that way from the outside.


    Through the huge dome, looking inside, Zhong Shan saw Princess Qianyou and the others flying in the distance. However, this wasn''t the most eye-catching thing. What really drew attention was the center of this world, a city.


    By that scale, the city inside the dome world was thousands of feet high,parable to Wushuang City. However, the sky above the city was shrouded in dark clouds, obscuring any view of the city itself. But the name on the city gate, Zhong Shan could see clearly.


    "Fengdu"


    The giant characters "Fengdu" exuded a chilling ghostly aura.


    Fengdu City?


    "Is this a ghost city?" Ah Da eximed beside Zhong Shan.


    Fengdu Ghost City? No wonder Ah Da was surprised, because almost all the beings entering and leaving this city were the same kind of evil ghosts seen before. Evil ghosts came and went from Fengdu City, and outside the city, countless zombies roamed around.


    Only a long yellow road had a group of figures walking on it. The road was yellow, and zombies approaching it would detour around it, not stepping on this yellow road. The evil ghosts entering and exiting Fengdu also avoided this yellow road.


    On this yellow road, a group of nearly a million people was walking, each with a hand on the shoulder of the person in front, step by step, entering Fengdu City.


    Looking at that group of a million, Zhong Shan felt his heart tighten.


    "It''s them, the million soldiers who were bitten to death earlier. It''s their spirits," Ah Da pointed at the figures on the yellow road, eximing in surprise.


    Indeed, Zhong Shan also saw among them a general, the same general who had died horribly before. He had remembered him by chance. Now, at the end of that line, was that general.


    The spirits of the dead? Entering Fengdu City one by one?


    What was going on? A feng shui array? Was this the power of the feng shui array? Was that Fengdu Ghost City real or not?


    Zhong Shan swallowed, his heart uneasy. He felt an urge to go in and find out, but his rationality prevailed. He couldn''t go. It was dangerous, very dangerous.

 Chapter 195: Breaking the Formation

    <h4>Chapter 195: Breaking the Formation</h4>


    Inside the domed world, the sky exuded a faintly dark aura, causing those flying within to move very slowly.


    Those who entered were at least at the Nascent Soul stage, numbering in the hundreds, most of them generals of the Daye Dynasty. Leading them was the emperor himself, dressed in a dragon robe, his hand resting on arge sword at his waist, exuding immense presence. Behind him were themanders of the five major corps, all experts at the Integration stage, followed by numerous Daye Dynasty generals.


    Besides the Daye Dynasty, there were three other factions:


    1.Princess Qianyou, Mr. Shui Jing, Gu Lin, and Ah Er.


    2.Chu Ba and Xie Yan.


    3.Huiguang Arhat.


    Among the four factions, Huiguang Arhat was the fastest. Under his feet was a white lotus, which converted the dark aura into pure energy upon contact and dispersed it.


    Seeing the white lotus, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, recognizing it as the Pure World Snow Lotus, which his master had entrusted to him before dying. Huiguang Arhat had one too?


    "The Pure World Snow Lotus of the Great Mighty Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva?" Ah Da eximed.


    "Oh, you recognize it?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, the Pure World Snow Lotus is a unique treasure from the Pure Land, with only three blooming every three thousand years. Once picked, each onests no more than three thousand years, meaning there are always only three in existence. The Great Mighty Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva owns one. The Pure World Snow Lotus automatically purifies all filth and dark energy within a three-zhang radius without needing to be activated. Since Huiguang Arhat follows the Great Mighty Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva, it must be his," Ah Da exined.


    Zhong Shan nodded at Ah Da''s exnation.


    In his mind, the Red Luan Lotus was still blue, indicating danger. Zhong Shan frowned and looked into the distance.


    "Ah Da, let''s retreat a bit more," Zhong Shan said, frowning.


    "Uh, yes, sir," Ah Da nodded, following Zhong Shan as they retreated further.


    They moved back until they reached the edge of the dark environment, where the Red Luan Lotus finally turned pink again.


    Stopping at the edge, Zhong Shan continued to watch the distance.


    Huiguang Arhat was the first to reach Fengdu City''s gate.


    The surrounding evil spirits and zombies, upon feeling the white light from the Pure World Snow Lotus, fled frantically, allowing Huiguang Arhat tough heartily and be the first to break into Fengdu City.


    The other three factions frowned.


    Although they couldn''t hear the sounds inside, Zhong Shan could see a powerful stream of air spraying out from the city gate, blowing some evil spirits away.


    Then Huiguang Arhat flew out backward, clutching his chest with a furious expression. Apparently, he had rushed in too eagerly and was ambushed. More crucially, he had lost the Pure World Snow Lotus under his feet.


    Everyone paused, and at that moment, a yellow figure slowly walked out from inside.


    The yellow figure was a hundred zhang tall, covered in yellow, shirtless with only a beast hide around his waist. One hand held an eighty-zhang-long giant wolf-fang club, while the other hand held the Pure World Snow Lotus.


    With no hair on his head, two long horns protruded from his forehead, and his appearance was extremely ugly.


    "Is that a ghost king?" Ah Da asked in surprise.


    Opening his mouth, the ghost king swallowed the Pure World Snow Lotus amidst everyone''s shocked gazes. His eyes widened in excitement as he burst into loud, uglyughter.


    Seeing this, Huiguang Arhat was filled with despair. The Pure World Snow Lotus was not his own, and there were only three in the world. How could it have been eaten by this ghost king?


    Turning his hand, he struck out towards the ghost king with a palm. In mid-air, a massive golden handprint materialized, mming towards the ghost king. The ghost king swung his gigantic wolf-fang club to meet the attack.


    "Boom��"


    Though Zhong Shan couldn''t hear it, he could feel the immense power of the collision. Countless evil spirits were blown away by the resulting shockwave. The ghost king was also forced back by Huiguang Arhat''s furious strike, crashing into the city wall.


    Enraged, the ghost king bared his teeth, raised his wolf-fang club, and charged at Huiguang Arhat.


    While the two powerhouses fought, the Daye Emperor, Princess Qianyou, and Chu Ba took the opportunity to enter Fengdu City.


    As Princess Qianyou entered Fengdu City, Ah Da''s pupils suddenly constricted, sensing a bad omen. He turned to Zhong Shan urgently.


    "Sir, have you been retreating because Fengdu City is dangerous?" Ah Da asked anxiously.


    Turning to look at Ah Da, Zhong Shan replied calmly, "You can go. I will retreat further to the safest ce."


    Ah Da looked at Zhong Shan in surprise but nodded, saying nothing more. He quickly rushed forward, entering the domed world and heading towards Fengdu City.


    Watching Ah Da''s receding figure, Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed. Ah Da and Ah Er, supposedly at the peak of the Nascent Soul stage? In the eyes of everyone, yes, but was that really the case?


    Zhong Shan had long suspected that their cultivation levels were higher. Princess Qianyou was at the Integration stage; would she have bodyguards at only the Nascent Soul stage? Just like himself��would he hire a bodyguard at the Innate stage to protect him?


    Zhong Shan didn''t believe it but kept his thoughts to himself. Sometimes, it was best to y dumb. Ah Da''s sudden agitation must have been because he could no longer sense Princess Qianyou once she entered Fengdu City.


    As Ah Da entered the domed world, Zhong Shan''s Red Luan Lotus turned blue again, signaling danger. Was there something wrong with the lotus? Why did it keep turning blue? Danger? What kind of danger?


    Just as Zhong Shan was puzzled, a thunderous roar came from Fengdu Ghost City.


    "Golden spears and iron horses, white affairs under heaven��"


    The roar echoed, and Zhong Shan''s eyes widened. The Red Luan Lotus turned blue because the Daye Emperor had breached the city.


    The sound, which should have been inaudible outside the domed world, now seemed to explode in Zhong Shan''s ears. He quickly retreated.


    Ah Da was still flying madly towards Fengdu City, while Huiguang Arhat faced off against the ghost king.


    After the deafening roar, everyone paused, including the ghosts. Then Zhong Shan saw cracks appearing on the walls of Fengdu Ghost City, with vast golden light shining through from inside.


    The ghost king, upon seeing the golden light, was filled with fear and quickly ran towards Fengdu City.


    It was toote. Fengdu City was breached, this world was breaking, and the real Feng Shui formation was shattered.


    Suddenly, from Fengdu City, countless ck mists soared into the sky, prating the dome of the world. In an instant, the entire domed world shattered, and countless evil spirits and zombies dissipated. Fengdu City also exploded.


    Apanied by the ck mist rising, Zhong Shan saw a de aura piercing through the sky, shattering the clouds and shooting into the high sky.


    With the shattering of the domed world, the previously jade seal-like ck environment also shattered. Zhong Shan had already retreated from the Daye Mountains and stood in the distance. He was filled with astonishment as the nine Ink-Blind Dragons above emitted a mournful cry under the golden de aura before dissipating into smoke.


    The hundred-zhang ck curtain environment vanished entirely, leaving only the ck mist surging into the sky.


    As the ck mist spewed out, the heavens and earth suddenly turned cold. Frost and snow began to fall around Zhong Shan, and thend froze instantly. A nearby river turned into an ice river.


    Taking cover in a mountain hollow, Zhong Shan felt a sudden tightness in his heart as he swiftly took out his Pure World Snow Lotus. cing it close to his chest and hiding it under his clothes, he found that the ck mist could only approach within three zhang of his body.


    The ck mist spread through the mountains and forests, killing all the trees and turning them into ice sculptures. Zhong Shan was enveloped in his protective aura, barely withstanding the severe cold.


    Zhong Shan was certain that Fengdu Ghost City had been breached, and the Feng Shui formation had been broken under the deliberate n of the Daye Emperor. The true tomb of the Celestial Emperor was now exposed to everyone, but it was shrouded in ck mist, obscuring any view of the interior.


    Zhong Shan''s mind was filled with uncertainty. Should he retreat or advance?


    Just as Zhong Shan entertained the thought of entering, the Red Luan Lotus, which had previously turned blue, suddenly turned a vivid crimson, as bright as blood.


    Was this a sign of great fortune? Could he enter safely?


    Although he knew that the deeper he went into the ck mist environment, the more dangerous it would be, Zhong Shan had great faith in the Red Luan Lotus. Previously, when it turned blue, it indicated great danger, and if he entered Fengdu Ghost City now, he might be doomed along with it.


    But now, with the Red Luan Lotus showing signs of great fortune, Zhong Shan pondered. Should he enter or not?


    The fluctuating color of the Red Luan Lotus could only serve as a reference. The real decisiony in Zhong Shan''s hands.


    After some consideration, Zhong Shan stepped on his great de and flew decisively into the ck mist. With the Pure World Snow Lotus in hand, he would endure the severe cold.


    What kind of thing could make the Red Luan Lotus emit such a vivid crimson color, signaling great fortune?

 Chapter 196: Great Qin

    <h4>Chapter 196: Great Qin</h4>


    Slowly entering the interior, the ground was made of dark rocks, cold and solid, emitting a chilly aura. The original Daye Mountains had disappeared. Enveloped by the ck mist gushing from a distance, one could vaguely see a faint light in the distance.


    What''s going on? Zhong Shan had a guess in his mind already.


    It seemed that the original Daye Mountains were simply illusory and did not exist at all. It was an illusion created by the Feng Shui formation. The Feng Shui formation was not just a formation but a world created out of thin air.


    Just like the previous Fengdu Ghost City, the fact that it copsed along with the Feng Shui formation indicated that within the Flower Blossom World, Fengdu Ghost City should have been suppressing something under the Feng Shui formation.


    Suppressing the tomb of the Celestial Emperor? No, it was this great hole spewing ck mist beneath.


    What was this great hole? Zhong Shan happened to know.


    The Abyss!


    Zhong Shan''s first encounter with the Abyss was on Tiang Ind. Before joining the Kaiyang Sect, he obtained the ce where the Heavenly Demon Essence originated. At that time, he heard from the Grim Reaper that there was an Abyss below. Therefore, when he joined the Kaiyang Sect, Zhong Shan specifically asked Tianxingzi about it.


    What was the Abyss?


    The world was divided into yin and yang, and the earth had two types of springs. One spewed out the aura of the earth''s yang, called yang springs, and each yang spring was a volcano. The other spewed out the aura of the earth''s yin, which was the Abyss. The Abyss was generally located beneath ciers, and the size of the icebergs varied depending on the strength of the Abyss.


    The Yan Mountain Peak and Snow Bamboo Peak of the Kaiyang Sect were actually two small springs, one yang spring and one Abyss.


    The previous Feng Shui formation was actually sealing an Abyss.


    The aura of the earth''s yin, was the Emperor''s tomb built on top of the Abyss''s spring? Impossible.


    During the time on Tiang Ind, the Grim Reaper was instantly frozen into fragments and then dispersed by a slight aura of the earth''s yin. Although he didn''t release his protective aura at that time, how could a tomb be built on top of it?


    Zhong Shan swiftly flew towards the source of light. When he arrived not far from the glowing interior, the visibility improved significantly, and Zhong Shan finally saw the scene inside.


    Princess Qianyou, Ada, A''er, and others who had entered the interior before were flying in mid-air out of thin air, surrounded by protective auras, all watching the light source together.


    At the source of light was a crystal city. The city was notrge, resembling an ordinary earthly city, and its interior could be seen.


    Above the city floated the name "Great Qin".


    Great Qin City?


    Great Qin City had no bottom, or it was transparent at the bottom, with arge amount of the earth''s yin aura directly prating the city and then shooting up from the top.


    In the city stood a hundred thousand soldiers in armor, but these soldiers didn''t move at all, nor did they release their protective auras. They just stood there, allowingrge amounts of the earth''s yin aura to enter and emerge from their bodies, as if their bodies were being tempered by countless earth''s yin auras.


    Tempering the body with the earth''s yin aura? This was unthinkable; no one could endure it.


    Each of these soldiers had a golden talisman affixed above their heads.


    Zombies?


    Seeing this scene, Zhong Shan''s first thought was zombies. Mr. Corpse on Tiang Ind used this kind of talisman to seal zombies in the end.


    A hundred thousand zombie army?


    Zhong Shan swallowed his saliva. Great Qin City was notrge, but it exuded strangeness everywhere.


    At the heart of an army of a hundred thousand zombiesy a massive amethyst coffin. Inside this coffin was a corpse��a male corpse dressed in a gold-threaded ck dragon robe and wearing a t-topped crown. His left hand clutched a jade seal engraved with nine dragons��could it be the imperial jade seal of the Heavenly Empire? His right hand grasped a pitch-ck longsword.


    The corpse of the Heavenly Emperor? But Zhong Shan couldn''t see his face, for it was covered by a dark jade-colored talisman.


    The onlookers, their eyes red with fervor, stared at the amethyst coffin. Was this truly the body of the Heavenly Emperor? The jade seal in his left hand and the sword in his right hand must be extraordinary treasures.


    An endless stream of dark, sinister energy seemed to have been suppressed for a long time, erupting skyward. Yet, as the pressure dissipated, the ck energy slowly ceased its ascent and gradually receded, merely bathing the eerie Great Qin City in its presence.


    In the sky, moonlight gently descended, but the moon had already moved to the west. It had been a long time since the attempt to break the formation began, and dawn was approaching.


    Everyone''s eyes were fixed on the amethyst coffin in the center of Great Qin City. The imperial jade seal, the sacred sword, and the emperor''s corpse inside��even if turned into a puppet, it would be an incredibly formidable entity.


    "Whoosh!"


    As everyone prepared to rush towards Great Qin City, Emperor Bai Ye stood firm, his massive de blocking their path.


    With his blood-red saber pointed directly at the three other factions, he dered, "Everyone, please leave. Breaking the Feng Shui formation was my doing. Now, quickly retreat, and Bai Ye will owe you all a favor."


    Bai Ye, the Emperor of the Great Enterprise, was named Bai Ye.


    "Bai Ye, do you intend to monopolize the tomb''s treasures?" Huiguang Arhat''s eyes widened in anger.


    Mr. Water Mirror fanned himself silently, while Gulin appeared slightly agitated. Princess Qianyou, along with Ah Da and Ah Er, remained silent. Eighth Demon Luo stood behind Evil me, as if everything was decided by him. Evil me squinted at Bai Ye, his gaze sharp.


    Huiguang Arhat was particrly furious at this moment. Just outside Fengdu Ghost City, the Pure World Snow Lotus had been swallowed by the Ghost King. Uncertain about the truth of Fengdu City''s situation, one thing was clear��the Pure World Snow Lotus was gone. How could he exin this to the Bodhisattva? If he could obtain something from the Heavenly Emperor, it might mitigate his failure. Therefore, Huiguang Arhat was determined to seed.


    As Bai Ye spoke, numerous Nascent Soul stage experts behind him charged towards Great Qin City.


    "Scoundrels!"


    Huiguang Arhat''s eyes widened, and he rushed forward, clenching his right fist and striking fiercely at Bai Ye.


    With this punch, a colossal golden fist appeared mid-air. It wasn''t just a manifestation of fist energy but seemed like the actual fist of a giant, its golden glow revealing blood vessels and flowing blood within.


    "Ha!"


    Emperor Bai Ye swung his massive de, which seemed to erge a thousandfold. The blood-red saber''s swing enveloped the surroundings in crimson energy, turning the sky blood-red and conjuring countless spectral warriors and weapons, which surged towards Huiguang Arhat.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan felt the ground tremble as the surrounding dark energy dissipated. Even from a great distance, the earth beneath his feet shook violently.


    The powerful sh was marked by the Emperor Bai Ye''s blood-red saber slicing through the air, sending a crimson glow skyward. In an instant, the distant battlefield was engulfed in a blood-red light, obscuring the scene from Zhong Shan''s view. Only the resounding impact could be heard, and when the light finally faded, Zhong Shan could see again.


    Emperor Bai Ye stood triumphantly, his blood-colored saber held high, his face fierce. In contrast, Huiguang Arhat had been sent flying, clutching his chest. His robes were torn open, a trickle of blood at the corner of his mouth, and his eyes were filled with a mixture of shock and uncertainty as he stared at Emperor Bai Ye.


    Too powerful. Even though both were of the same Huangji realm, Huiguang Arhat was no match for Bai Ye''s single strike and was decisively defeated. Bai Ye''s demonstration was a clear warning to others, discouraging them from reckless actions.


    However, the lure of the treasures was too great to abandon because of Bai Ye''s disy. Huiguang Arhat slowly drew out a golden staff, while Eighth Demon Luo unsheathed a broad sword from his back. Mr. Water Mirror gripped his feather fan tightly, and Princess Qianyou took out a slender sword.


    None were in a rush, as they observed the Nascent Soul stage experts ahead, who had not yet breached Great Qin City. It seemed an invisible barrier repelled them; one general who charged forward was instantly bounced back.


    Zhong Shan focused on Great Qin City, his eyes shifting to the amethyst coffin at its center. Initially, there was nothing unusual, but as the coffiny exposed, the dark jade talisman on the emperor''s face began to emit a faint silver glow.


    The glow was subtle, perhaps unnoticed by others, but it caught Zhong Shan''s attention. Strange runes on the talisman started to illuminate, tracing a path from top to bottom. As more runes lit up, the sky suddenly darkened, and the surrounding moonlight seemed to be drawn to the talisman, which began to radiate an intense silver light.


    Under the gaze of all those besieging Great Qin City, the glowing talisman slowly lifted from the emperor''s forehead, floating upwards as if drawn towards the moon. It seemed ready to break through the city''s barrier. The dark jade talisman, a mysterious and undoubtedly extraordinary artifact, was now free.


    "Everyone, break the city! Seize the imperial jade seal and the sacred sword!" Bai Ye suddenly shouted, his voice filled with urgency.


    "Yes!" The Nascent Soul generals, along with the five legionmanders, roared in unison, raising their weapons and striking at Great Qin City.


    "Boom!"


    Hundreds of powerful cultivators struck simultaneously, theirbined attack rivaling Bai Ye''s previous strike. The resulting shockwave made the space around Zhong Shan tremble violently. Dazzling golden light shed, once again obscuring the distant scene. Suddenly, a swift object whizzed past Zhong Shan''s ear, carried by a fierce wind.


    Though he couldn''t see what it was, Zhong Shan''s reflexes were exceptional. Without hesitation, he shot towards the direction of the object, the red lotus at his brow glowing more intensely.

 Chapter 197: Heavenly Mandate

    <h4>Chapter 197: Heavenly Mandate</h4>


    What was Zhong Shan chasing? Although he didn''t see it clearly, with his uncanny intellect, he quickly deduced the possibilities. At the site of the great crater, apart from Great Qin City, there were no other objects. The massive impact could only have been caused by fragments of Great Qin City or that dark jade talisman.


    If it were fragments of Great Qin City, there would be more than one piece. Besides, could Great Qin City be shattered by a single blow from those experts? The probability was low. As for the dark jade talisman, it was already rising out of Great Qin City. A powerful strike could indeed send it flying. This possibility was very high. More importantly, although Zhong Shan hadn''t seen the talisman, he did catch a fleeting glimpse of silver light��the light that had previously surrounded the talisman in the moonlight.


    Without hesitation, Zhong Shan pursued. He had no role to y in the battle at Great Qin City, but obtaining this dark jade talisman would already be an extravagant gain for him.


    Zhong Shan rode his saber at high speed, quickly exiting the area shrouded in ck energy. He finally caught sight of the distant object��the silver light was fading, revealing the dark jade talisman. It was shooting towards the horizon.


    "Fourth Layer of the Celestial Demon Refinement Technique!"


    With a fivefold increase in power, his speed soared. The talisman''s speed slowed due to wind resistance as it flew over eight mountains. Zhong Shan was closing in.


    But he didn''t getcent. Fortune and misfortune are interdependent. Although it seemed unrted, years of cultivation had taught Zhong Shan to believe this. Danger often lurked at moments of triumph.


    While chasing the talisman, Zhong Shan scanned his surroundings. He nced back and his heart tightened. His caution had once again saved him. Among the generals besieging Great Qin City, one had also given chase.


    A Nascent Soul stage expert was flying effortlessly on the wind, unlike Zhong Shan, who rode his saber. High in the sky, the Nascent Soul cultivator saw the talisman flying away and Zhong Shan chasing below. He sneered at the sight of a Golden Core stage cultivator using a saber. Spreading his divine sense, he locked onto Zhong Shan, surprised at his speed.


    Zhong Shan felt a surge of urgency. He pushed his speed to the limit, determined to grab the talisman before the Nascent Soul cultivator.


    The talisman was right in front of him, about to fall into a great river below. Zhong Shan reached out to grasp it. The Nascent Soul expert above, seeing this, hastily swung his great saber.


    "Boom!"


    A massive saber aura, a hundred feet long, shed towards Zhong Shan. Despite his protective energy shield, Zhong Shan was struck and plunged into the river, causing huge waves to erupt.


    "Splurt!"


    Zhong Shan spat out a mouthful of blood as he sank into the river. But he had seeded. At thest moment, he had grabbed the dark jade talisman.


    To his astonishment, the talisman couldn''t be stored in his storage bracelet.


    Clutching the talisman tightly, Zhong Shan was both shocked and worried. If he could store the talisman in the bracelet, he would have leverage to negotiate with the Nascent Soul cultivator. With his intellect, he could certainly outmaneuver the general. But without this option, the general would have no qualms about killing him to take the talisman.


    What to do?


    As he sank towards the riverbed, Zhong Shan''s mind raced.


    "Such a treasure!" The general on the river surface eximed with delight. He had witnessed Zhong Shan''s actions and realized that the dark jade talisman couldn''t be stored in a spatial storage device. This alone indicated its immense value. The general showed no concern; after all, his opponent was merely at the Golden Core stage, and his divine sense had been locked onto Zhong Shan the entire time. Escape? Where could he possibly run to?


    The river was deep, and as Zhong Shan sank halfway down, he squinted his eyes, his injuries slowing him. He then darted upstream, unleashing the Hongluan Mist in full force. The pink mist spread with the river''s current, washing downstream. On this day, the river''s creatures were destined to be overwhelmed with a sudden urge.


    The general pursued unhurriedly, following Zhong Shan to a waterfall where the river water cascaded into a deep pool, which then flowed downstream again. Zhong Shan had reached this deep pool, with nowhere left to retreat.


    The general smirked, thinking, "Let''s see where you can run now."


    Zhong Shan remained calm; the more dangerous the situation, the calmer he had to be. He had once killed a Nascent Soul stage Thunder General while still at the Innate stage. Now, at the fourth level of the Golden Core stage, could he not defeat another Nascent Soul cultivator?


    The deep pool was an advantage. Zhong Shan slowly sank to the bottom, finding arge rock to hide behind. He gripped his nightmare de, watching the surface with keen eyes, as the Hongluan Mist subtly spread, enveloping the pool. With dawn yet to break, the mist''s color was not particrly noticeable.


    The Nascent Soul general stood above the pool, his divine sense tracking Zhong Shan. He sneered, "You can''t escape. Hand over the talisman, and I''ll spare your life."


    Would Zhong Shan believe him? Alone here, the general would simply kill him to take the talisman. No way he would let him go.


    Zhong Shan remained silent, observing the water in the deep pool, his eyes narrowed. He held his de firmly, unmoving.


    Zhong Shan did not look directly at the general on the surface, which puzzled thetter. Was he cross-eyed? But the general didn''t dwell on it; to him, Zhong Shan was already a fish in a barrel.


    The general raised his de and shed down at the pool.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan met the attack with his own. A massive explosion sent water spraying everywhere.


    However, the general''s attack was rendered ineffective, the power significantly diminished by the two hundred meters of water. Zhong Shan, at the fourth level of the Golden Core stage, had increased his strength fivefold in this short time.


    With his first strike failing, the general''s eyes grew cold. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan continued to look at the water as if cross-eyed, focusing on the gurgling currents.


    "Humph," the general snorted, enveloped himself in a protective aura, and slowly descended into the pool.


    As the general entered the water, a sly smile crept onto Zhong Shan''s face.


    Still hiding behind therge rock, Zhong Shan watched as the general descended to a depth of one hundred meters. His pupils contracted, and he swung his de with all his might, filling it with thirty meters of de energy, striking upwards.


    No visible de aura, just pure de energy. The general''s lips curled in a sneer. With only thirty meters of de energy, Zhong Shan was still over a hundred meters away, now down to eighty meters. The attack wouldn''t reach him. Not only was Zhong Shan cross-eyed, but he was also a fool.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s forehead veins bulge as he swung with all his might, the general continued his descent with a mocking smile.


    Zhong Shan''s bulging veins indicated a full-power strike, but was he really just a fool? Those who knew Zhong Shan would never call him a fool, for anyone who did would be the true fool.


    Zhong Shan''s full-strength strike descended, not aimed at the general but at the water of the deep pool. His eyes had not been fixed on the general earlier; instead, he was studying the patterns in the water.


    This was a technique Zhong Shan had created himself, though it was not yet perfected. However, as long as he had time and his opponent dared to underestimate his strike, the price to pay would be unprecedented.


    As the general sneered at Zhong Shan, his thoughts suddenly became chaotic. A stunning beauty shed in his mind, making him realize something was wrong. It was an illusion-type spell!


    "Boom!"


    A massive thunderbolt descended upon the general from above. Refocusing, the general sneered coldly and swung his de upwards.


    "Boom!"


    He shattered the thunderbolt with a single sh. The general grinned because it seemed the thunderbolt had almost missed its mark. Was Zhong Shan cross-eyed? How could such a person reach the Golden Core stage?


    While the general was blocking the thunderbolt, sneering at the thought, Zhong Shan''s de finallypleted its strike.


    As his de descended, the water parted as if an immense force were tearing it apart. Water, inherently shapeless, seemed to split eagerly, torn by an invisible power. From the tip of Zhong Shan''s de, it appeared as though the water was being ripped apart, like a fabric tearing, creating a rift that surged upwards toward the general.


    The general''s pupils contracted in shock. He couldn''t understand what was happening, but an intense sense of danger surged within him.


    The moment the rift in the water touched his protective aura, the general was struck with terror. The force wasn''t a collision but a terrifying pull from both sides of the rift, exerting immense pressure on his protective barrier.


    Despite being a Nascent Soul cultivator, his protective aura, dense and crimson like a shell, held only for a brief moment before it was ripped apart. The powerful pulling force continued along the direction of the rift.


    The general''s eyes widened in panic. His right leg, waist, and right arm were all torn apart by the immense force.


    Even as he died, the general couldn''t believe what was happening. How could a Golden Core cultivator possess such strength? How could this be possible? Why?


    "What is this de technique?" the general asked in disbelief as he took hisst breath.


    Looking coldly at the dying general, Zhong Shan replied slowly, "It''s my own creation. It had no name until today. Remember, this de technique is called ''Heaven''s Law'' ."

 Chapter 198: The Revival of the Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 198: The Revival of the Emperor</h4>


    With only two days remaining, the pursuing army was celebrating their victories, closing in rapidly. Ast plea for votes was made! ��


    Heaven''s Law? The bloodied general stared wide-eyed at Zhong Shan, this Golden Core stage cultivator who boasted shamelessly. You created this? A mere Golden Core stage cultivator daring to name his rudimentary technique ''Heaven''s Law''?


    Of course, the general couldn''t speak anymore. His internal organs were exposed, his body almost split in half. He couldn''t survive, only able to die with unfulfilled bitterness and resentment.


    The name Zhong Shan gave his de technique might have sounded arrogant, but he knew what its future potential could be. Now, it was merely a grand vision; in the future, it would undoubtedly live up to its name.


    In the critical moment earlier, if the general had been vignt, he could have avoided the attack. However, Zhong Shan''s series of maneuvers left him no chance. Zhong Shan first used the Hongluan Mist to distract the general, breaking his focus for just a moment. Though the general quickly regained rity, hisprehensive awareness was disrupted. When the thunderbolt appeared, the general instinctively swung his de to counter it, leaving himself open to what seemed like a ''weak'' strike from Zhong Shan, which led to his downfall��a mistake so grave he had no opportunity to regret it.


    While this strike demonstrated the power of ''Heaven''s Law,'' it also showcased Zhong Shan''s exceptional wisdom, a critical factor in this life-and-death scenario.


    Another Nascent Soul stage expert had fallen to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan slowly surfaced and quickly left the area, finding a secluded valley. He entered a cave and blocked the entrance with rocks before examining the ck jade talisman he had just obtained.


    The ck jade talisman, nowpletely transformed into a thin piece of ck jade, was covered with intricate, bizarre runes. The more Zhong Shan stared at the runes, the more patterns seemed to emerge, leading to a sense of mental chaos.


    Shaking his head, Zhong Shan quickly closed his eyes to calm his mind. Sweat dripped from his forehead as he took a deep breath and reopened his eyes to look at the talisman again.


    How should he hide this talisman?


    He infused a bit of his true essence into it.


    "Buzz..."


    The ck jade talisman vanished? Zhong Shan''s eyes widened, and then he felt a disturbance in his Purple Mansion. He focused inward.


    Surrounded by pure yang energy, at the very center, the ck jade talisman floated.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan was slightly astonished.


    With a mentalmand, a bit of pure yang energy infused into the talisman, and it returned to his hand instantly.


    Looking at the suddenly reappeared ck jade talisman in his hand, Zhong Shan swallowed hard, realizing he had found a treasure.


    He stored the talisman in his Purple Mansion again, but an unusual energy barrier around it prevented him from examining it closely.


    Zhong Shan checked it thoroughly and found that the talisman neither absorbed pure yang energy nor emitted any aura. It seemed to merely be stored within the Purple Mansion.


    Not in a rush, Zhong Shan decided to investigate it furtherter since it posed no immediate threat.


    After tidying up, Zhong Shan left the cave, nning to head toward the Yuheng Sect.


    After Zhong Shan chased after the ck jade talisman, the area above the dark spring saw great turmoil. Thebined assault from the powerful cultivators failed to break open the Great Qin City.


    Bai Ye, with his blood-stained saber, single-handedly held off all the strong attackers.


    Huiguang Arhat, Chuba Mara, and Mr. Shui Jing, three supreme experts, attacked with all their might, but were repelled by Bai Ye''s ferocity.


    "Boom!"


    Blood light soared as Bai Ye once again pushed back the three great experts with a single sh.


    Mr. Shui Jing frowned slightly, while Chuba Mara and Huiguang Arhat showed signs of shock��Bai Ye was too strong.


    Behind them, many experts continued to bombard the Great Qin City.


    "Hoo��������������"


    Within the Great Qin City, a faint sigh was heard, but it was too weak amidst the ongoing bombardment to be noticed.


    As the experts attacked the Great Qin City once more, suddenly, at the central purple jade coffin, the face of the pale Emperor opened his eyes eerily.


    The Emperor had awakened? However, his eyes werepletely red, like the blind dragon from before, with no whites or pupils.


    The attacking experts continued their assault on the Great Qin City, unaware of the change, until the Emperor suddenly stood up straight.


    The eerie manner in which he stood caused the attackers to freeze, all eyes fixated on the purple jade coffin, feeling a chill down their spines��had the Emperor not died?


    Even the attackers behind Bai Ye were stunned, all of them staring oddly at the Great Qin City, watching as the Emperor stood up, feeling an overwhelming sense of dread.


    The Emperor suddenly opened his mouth, revealing two blood-red fangs, and let out a thunderous roar towards the sky.


    "Roar��������������������������������������������������������������������!"


    The entire Great Qin City shook, with numerous objects within the city vibrating violently. From below, the dark spring erupted once again, spewing endless underworld qi, this time avoiding the Great Qin City.


    "Boom����������������������������������!"


    The distant mountains and rivers trembled continuously, the roar so powerful that even Nascent Soul stage experts clutched their ears in agony.


    Hundreds of Nascent Soul stage experts outside the Great Qin City clutched their ears, writhing in the air in pain.


    Gu Lin''s face turned pale, and if not for Mr. Shui Jing''s hand transmitting energy to him, Gu Lin would have been rolling on the ground like the other generals, overwhelmed by the sound waves.


    This was no mere sound wave. The Emperor''s roar seemed to shake the very space around them, causing it to waver, threatening to topple everyone. Even Princess Qianyou''s face turned pale.


    The roar pierced the heavens, and as the Emperor roared, two enormous ck wings burst from his back through his dragon robe.


    The wings resembled those of a bat, but their bones were covered in dragon scales.


    With a p, the wings swept away the talismans from the foreheads of the eight zombie guards.


    The Imperial Jade Seal and the ck sword were left in the purple jade coffin. The Emperor''s massive dragon-scaled ck wings unfolded, moving so swiftly that no one saw him move, not even a blur. In the next moment, he appeared before Bai Ye.


    Emperor Bai Ye, unable to resist, was grabbed by the Emperor. With a p of his dragon-scaled wings, he bit into Bai Ye''s neck, quickly draining his blood.


    "Retreat����������������������������������!" Mr. Shui Jing did not hesitate, grabbing Gu Lin and retreating.


    But within the Great Qin City, a shadow instantly appeared before Mr. Shui Jing. Mr. Shui Jing raised his hand to strike.


    "Boom����������������������������������" "Pfft������������������������"


    With a thunderous crash, Mr. Shui Jing spewed a mouthful of blood. Although enveloped in dark energy, he still managed to use the force of his strike to pull Gu Lin and retreat far away, escaping the battlefield.


    Inside the Great Qin City, there were not just one but eight shadows. The Emperor''s eight guards left a series of afterimages as they swiftly darted in all directions.


    "Boom����������������������������������" "Pfft������������������"


    Chuba Mara shed with one of the zombie guards, spitting a mouthful of blood before fleeing with Xie Yan.


    "Boom����������������������������������"


    Huiguang Arhat also exchanged a palm strike with a zombie guard, his face showing shock as he turned to flee.


    These were Emperor Realm experts��Mr. Shui Jing, Chuba Mara, and Huiguang��yet they dared not face the zombie guards head-on. How could Princess Qianyou, who was only at the Fusion stage, fare against them?


    A zombie guard appeared before Princess Qianyou. Ah Er''s eyes widened as he unleashed a burst of energy to confront the guard. Meanwhile, Ah Da, pulling Princess Qianyou, left only an afterimage as they fled far away.


    "Boom����������������������������������" "Pfft����������������"


    Ah Er spewed blood, using the force to swiftly escape.


    All the Emperor Realm experts fled, taking their people with them. But could the generals of the Grand Ye Dynasty escape? These generals, only at the Nascent Soul stage, werepletely annihted by the zombie guards. Even the Fusion stage armymanders were killed by them.


    After ughtering everyone, the eight guards surrounded the Emperor.


    The Emperor drained Bai Ye of all his blood. Bai Ye, a formidable Emperor Realm expert, couldn''t resist at all. After absorbing all his blood, the Emperor spat a drop of golden-red blood back into Bai Ye, who was then enveloped in a red glow.


    Only then did the Emperor release Bai Ye. The Emperor''s previously blood-red eyes returned to normal, showing whites and pupils. With a slight movement, the dragon-scaled wings retracted, and a look of intense excitement shed in his eyes.


    Looking up at the sky, the Emperorughed heartily, "Hahahahaha����������������������������������"


    His joyousughter, filled with the thrill of rebirth, shook the surrounding space. Itsted for twenty breaths before ceasing. Meanwhile, the red glow around Bai Ye slowly dissipated. He opened his eyes and gazed at the Emperor, then knelt in mid-air.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty," Bai Ye bowed deeply.


    The Emperor nced at Bai Ye, then at the Great Qin City. With a wave of his hand, the city seemed to shrink and quickly flew towards him. With a flick of his sleeve, the Emperor stored the city within it.


    He looked up at the setting moon; dawn was approaching.


    "Let''s go����������������������������" the Emperor said, stepping forward.


    Bai Ye swiftly rose, followed closely by the eight guards, and they disappeared into the forest.

 Chapter 199: Encounter in the Eight Desolations

    <h4>Chapter 199: Encounter in the Eight Destions</h4>


    At the Yuheng Sect, Princess Qianyou stared angrily at Ah Da in front of her. Ah Da hung his head low, looking remorseful, while Ah Er stood behind Princess Qianyou. Gu Lin had a smug expression, and Mr. Shui Jing fanned himself, frowning.


    "Ah Da, what did I instruct you to do?" Princess Qianyou said angrily.


    "Princess, it was my fault for not protecting Mr. Zhong. But it was an emergency at the time, and Mr. Zhong also agreed for me to go to Fengdu City," Ah Da replied, filled with regret.


    "Enough, Qianyou, Ah Da was also concerned about you," Gu Lin said, his tone gloating.


    "Hmph, do you follow my orders or Mr. Zhong''s?" Princess Qianyou retorted angrily.


    "Ah Da knows his mistake. I will go find Mr. Zhong right away and make sure to bring him back," Ah Da said immediately.


    "Hmph, where will you look? Stay here. If Mr. Zhong is safe, he will surely return," Princess Qianyou said angrily.


    Ah Da was specifically instructed to protect Zhong Shan, but midway, he disobeyed orders and went to Fengdu City. Although he ultimately saved Princess Qianyou, she felt a sense of frustration. In the dire situation, Ah Er could have also escaped, but Ah Da''s actions had put Zhong Shan in danger. Zhong Shan had yet to return.


    "Qianyou, don''t think about him anymore. He''s just a subordinate. Once we return to the capital, I can find as many as you want," Gu Lin said immediately.


    Hearing Gu Lin''s words, Mr. Shui Jing broke out in a cold sweat. Find as many as you want? Did Gu Lin think Princess Qianyou had chosen Zhong Shan because of his cultivation?


    Without words, Mr. Shui Jing nced at Gu Lin, while Princess Qianyou''s anger subsided a bit due to Gu Lin''s foolishment.


    At that moment, a distant, ragged figure slowly flew closer.


    "Princess, it''s Mr. Zhong. He''s back," Ah Er said excitedly.


    Everyone looked up, focusing on the distant figure.


    It was indeed Zhong Shan, still riding hisrge saber, flying at a steady pace.


    "Whoosh����������������������������������"


    Princess Qianyou flew over instantly, followed closely by Ah Da and Ah Er, leaving Gu Lin and Mr. Shui Jing behind. Mr. Shui Jing smiled faintly, fanning himself as he looked at Zhong Shan from afar. Gu Lin, however, showed a look of anger��Zhong Shan was still alive?


    "Mr. Zhong, are you alright?" Princess Qianyou asked joyfully as she approached.


    "Thank you for your concern, Princess. I encountered some troops from the Grand Ye Dynasty and had to deal with them," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Mr. Zhong, if you hadn''t returned, Ah Da would have had to atone with his life," Ah Da said with a smile.


    "Huh? That serious? What happened to you all afterward?" Zhong Shan asked thoughtfully.


    As they flew toward the Yuheng Sect, Ah Da quickly recounted the events to Zhong Shan.


    Upon arriving at the Yuheng Sect, they greeted the others, and Zhong Shan continued to listen without interrupting until Ah Da finished his story.


    "The Emperor of the Grand Ye Dynasty has revived?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "We''re not sure, but it is spected that the Emperor used the underground yin energy of the Youquan Spring to refine himself and the entire city''s soldiers into zombies over tens of thousands of years, bing immortal and neither human nor ghost," Ah Da said, shaking his head.


    "In any case, that was the Emperor of a celestial dynasty. I have already sent Yuheng Sect members to the capital to report this matter. With the revival of a celestial dynasty''s emperor, thend of Shenzhou will once again be filled with turmoil," Princess Qianyou sighed.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Although the resurrected emperor had only himself and a hundred thousand zombies, he was still an emperor. Rebuilding a celestial dynasty would not be too difficult for him. However, it was unclear what his intentions were.


    "Alright, from now on, no one is to mention this matter again. Forget it," Princess Qianyou ordered.


    "Yes," everyone responded immediately.


    "Mr. Zhong, you have just returned. Tomorrow, we will set out for the Great Yu Empire," Princess Qianyou said to Zhong Shan.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    In the Great Yu Empire, Eight Destions City.


    On the city wall of Eight Destions City, General Ironblood stood with his hand on the hilt of his sword, gazing northward. Behind him were several other generals, one of whom was the martial arts fanatic who had previously sparred with the elder from the Kaiyang Sect.


    "General, why are we here? We''ve been waiting for so many days. Can you give us a hint?" the martial arts fanatic asked, frowning.


    "We are here to wee Princess Qianyou of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty and Prince Gu Lin," General Ironblood replied.


    "Princess Qianyou? Prince Gu Lin? Will they pass through Eight Destions City? The ceremonial officer from the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty didn''t mention they would pass through here, only that Princess Qianyou went to the Yuheng Sect," the martial arts fanatic said, frowning.


    "The ceremonial officer from the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty did not mention it, but I am certain they wille to Eight Destions City," General Ironblood asserted.


    "Why?" the martial arts fanatic asked, puzzled.


    "Because the Grand Marshal said so," General Ironblood replied. The Grand Marshal of the Great Yu Empire, Yi Yan.


    "Oh? Then it must be as the Grand Marshal said," the martial arts fanatic nodded, epting it as a matter of course, not bothering to consider why the Grand Marshal was so certain.


    "The Grand Marshal is truly a genius, able to predict Princess Qianyou''s route," another generalmented.


    "General, is it the Grand Marshal who sent us here?" the martial arts fanatic asked.


    "By the Grand Marshal''smand, we are to ensure the safety of Princess Qianyou and Prince Gu Lin along the way, without any mistakes," General Ironblood said.


    "Yes," everyone responded immediately.


    In the distance from Eight Destions City, on a white cloud, stood Zhong Shan and his group of six.


    "Mr. Shui Jing, why are we detouring to Eight Destions City? Why not go directly to the capital of the Great Yu Empire?" Gu Lin asked.


    "Because there is someone waiting for us in Eight Destions City," Mr. Shui Jing replied.


    "Waiting? Who? I recall we never informed anyone of our itinerary," Gu Lin said, frowning.


    "We informed the ceremonial officer who went ahead," Mr. Shui Jing said.


    "No, I remember we only told them we were going to the Yuheng Sect and did not mention Eight Destions City or ask anyone to wait for us," Gu Lin said, frowning again.


    "Informing the Yuheng Sect is equivalent to informing Eight Destions City," Mr. Shui Jing exined patiently.


    "Why?" Gu Lin asked, surprised.


    "Although going to Eight Destions City is a detour, it is the nearest sect of the Great Yu Empire to the Yuheng Sect," Mr. Shui Jing exined.


    "Oh?" Gu Lin still didn''t understand. Being the nearest didn''t seem relevant to their itinerary, as they were headed to the capital of the Great Yu Empire, not Eight Destions City.


    "Because once we enter the Great Yu Empire, someone will try to harm us. Eight Destions City must have a team waiting for us to escort us safely to the capital of the Great Yu Empire," Mr. Shui Jing said.


    "Try to harm us? Who would dare harm me?" Gu Lin frowned.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan broke out in a cold sweat. Who would dare harm you? As long as there is profit to be made, anyone would dare.


    Closing his eyes, Zhong Shan remained calm, letting Mr. Shui Jing endure the torment.


    "Of course, there are those who hope we perish on thends of the Great Yu Empire��agents from other empires," Princess Qianyou exined, shaking her head.


    "You mean, someone wants us to encounter danger, which would lead to a war between the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty and the Great Yu Empire?" Gu Lin finally understood.


    "Yes. Although I can protect the prince temporarily, it''s challenging to anticipate every threat. Therefore, having a military escort is much safer and less worrisome," Mr. Shui Jing said, shaking his feather fan with a smile.


    "But we only mentioned the Yuheng Sect. Will the people of the Great Yu Empire really send troops to wait for us in Eight Destions City?" Gu Lin asked, puzzled.


    "They will, definitely," Princess Qianyou said, frowning.


    "Why?" Gu Lin asked, still confused.


    "Because the Great Yu Empire also has capable people. At the very least, Grand Marshal Yi Yan knows we will certainly go to Eight Destions City, so arge force will be waiting for us there," Princess Qianyou said with certainty.


    As they spoke, they flew over several mountains and finally saw the outline of a city in the distance. Like Wushuang City, it was a massive city, with the characters for "Eight Destions" prominently disyed above the city gate.


    The group flew at a leisurely pace, and from the city gate, nearly ten uniformed generals flew out. Leading them was Ironblood General, themander of the First Legion of the Great Yu Empire.


    They flew quickly and were soon in front of the group.


    "Ironblood,mander of the First Legion of the Great Yu Empire, under themand of the Grand Marshal, wees the envoys of the Heavenly Dynasty," Ironblood said respectfully.


    Gu Lin''s eyes lit up with excitement. Was it really as Princess Qianyou and Mr. Shui Jing had said? Were they really waiting here?


    "Thank you, General Ironblood. We appreciate your assistance for the remainder of our journey," Princess Qianyou said with a smile.


    "Rest assured, Princess. The Grand Marshal has made arrangements. I will ensure that the princess and the prince arrive safely at the capital of the Great Yu Empire, Sky City," Ironblood General said solemnly.


    Gu Lin was visibly excited, and the men behind Ironblood General were equally thrilled. Had the Grand Marshal''s prediction reallye true? Had they really passed through Eight Destions City?


    "May I ask, did Mr. Yi Yan send you here without informing anyone?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "That''s correct. It was kept secret to ensure the safety of the princess and the prince. May I ask why the princess inquires?" Ironblood General asked.


    "Hehe, I was merely reflecting on how for such a secretive mission, Mr. Yi Yan would only entrust it to his most reliable people," Princess Qianyou said with a smile.


    Hearing Princess Qianyou praise him as Yi Yan''s most reliable person, Ironblood Generalughed heartily.


    "Exactly," Ironblood Generalughed.


    "By the way, are there any othermanders or generals here?" Princess Qianyou asked again.


    "Of course not. Only the Grand Marshal sent me with my subordinates," Ironblood General said, shaking his head.


    "Then we will trouble you," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    "It''s no trouble at all. This way, please," Ironblood General made a weing gesture.


    Nodding, they followed Ironblood General into Eight Destions City.


    Along the way, Gu Lin frowned in silence. What was the purpose of Princess Qianyou''sst few questions? Just topliment Ironblood General? That didn''t seem necessary.


    Of course, it wasn''t necessary. With just a few casual words, Princess Qianyou had gathered a wealth of information. It was clear that only Yi Yan had sent people here. At least among the high-ranking individuals, only Mr. Yi Yan had the foresight to predict their arrival in Eight Destions City. The others hadn''t anticipated it at all.


    This was good news. It meant that only Yi Yan was capable, and there were no other formidable figures in the Great Yu Empire.

 Chapter 200: The Sky City

    <h4>Chapter 200: The Sky City</h4>


    In the Da Yu Empire, within a valley, General Iron Blood was escorting Princess Qianyou and her entourage to the capital city, Sky City. They were currently camping in the valley, taking a break before continuing their journey.


    After setting up the tents, Princess Qianyou and her group rested in the central tent, while General Iron Blood stood guard outside, observing the surroundings.


    Inside the tent, Gu Lin anxiously asked, "Qianyou, are we almost at Sky City?"


    "We''re close. This is thest rest stop. Next time, we can head straight to Sky City," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Gu Lin frowned, "But we haven''t encountered any assassins as you mentioned."


    "It''s not that there were no assassins; they retreated upon seeing the Da Yu Empire''s army," Princess Qianyou said confidently.


    "Who are these people that would want to assassinate us? Shui Jing, do you know?" Gu Lin looked at Shui Jing.


    "Empires hoping for a war between Da Luo and Da Yu, especially those currently at war with the Da Luo Empire. They all hope for it. And apart from them, other empires also hope for it," Shui Jing exined.


    Gu Lin nodded thoughtfully.


    Zhong Shan, sitting nearby, suddenly asked, "Princess, what is the status of Yi Yan in the Da Yu Empire?"


    "Yi Yan? Yi Yan is the regent appointed by the previous emperor of the Da Yu Empire," Princess Qianyou replied.


    "The previous emperor? Wasn''t the Da Yu Empire founded by Nn Piaoxue?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "No, the Da Yu Empire has gone through three generations. Nn Piaoxue inherited the throne a hundred years ago. His father, Nn Zhengde, like his grandfather, faced the end of his life unable to break through. Reluctantly, he passed the throne to Nn Piaoxue. Despite three generations, the Da Yu Empire has steadily developed. Especially Nn Piaoxue, who is exceptionally talented, his cultivation almost matching his father''s," Princess Qianyou exined.


    Zhong Shan grasped a key point in her words, "Yi Yan is the regent of the previous emperor? Does that mean Nn Piaoxue is not as capable as the previous emperor?"


    "There''s always a trade-off. Although Nn Piaoxue surpasses his predecessors in talent and cultivation, hecks his father''s experience. Perhaps in a few hundred years, he might catch up, but for now, he isn''t there yet. However, his father left him the brilliant strategist Yi Yan," Princess Qianyou said.


    "A brilliant strategist? I remember Yi Yan only has the cultivation of the Nascent Soul stage," Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, he is only at the Nascent Soul stage and is seriously ill. But his tremendous achievements can''t be denied. Just like you, although only at the Golden Core stage, you have extraordinary talent," Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Princess, you overpraise me," Zhong Shan quickly replied.


    Princess Qianyou nced at Zhong Shan and continued, "A hundred years ago, when Nn Zhengde passed away, the Da Yu Empire was in chaos. There were internal rebellions by eight princes and five noble families, and external invasions by the Da Luo Empire, Da Guang Empire, Da Yan Empire, and Da Lu Empire. The Da Yu Empire was on the brink of copse. But before his death, Nn Zhengde entrusted themander''s seal to Yi Yan. In just thirty-four years, Yi Yan, despite his frail health, quelled internal rebellions and defeated external threats, restoring order to the empire."


    "Just him alone?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "Yes, just him alone, turning the tide and stabilizing the empire. His name became renowned throughout thend. Even enemy soldiers respected him. Within the Da Yu Empire, besides Nn Piaoxue, he holds the highest prestige," Princess Qianyou marveled.


    Having rested enough, the group prepared to continue their journey to Sky City. Under General Iron Blood''s escort, they embarked on the final leg of their journey towards the capital.


    Listening intently to Princess Qianyou''s exnation, Zhong Shan''s mind kept recalling thest time he had seen Yi Yan. That frail man who looked as if a gust of wind could topple him, yet even the first regimentmander of the Da Yu Empire was willing to serve as his footstool.


    "You must know, one with great achievements must be able tomand respect. How does Nn Piaoxue treat Yi Yan?" Zhong Shan asked Princess Qianyou.


    Princess Qianyou nodded thoughtfully, "Indeed, sir, you see far. Nn Piaoxue, the Emperor of the Da Yu Empire, undoubtedly holds the highest prestige. Although he still employs Yi Yan, he also uses a distant rtive of the Nn family to bnce Yi Yan''s power. However, Yi Yan''s severe illness and presumably short lifespan mean that there isn''t excessive contention. Only during policy implementation in court do differing opinions arise, rather than Yi Yan having sole say."


    "The distant rtive of the Nn family, then his status in the Da Yu Empire must be quite high," Zhong Shan spected.


    "Yes, indeed. He is King Julu, whose rank surpasses even Nn Piaoxue," Princess Qianyou confirmed.


    "And what is King Julu like?" Zhong Shan asked, probing further.


    "If he can be used to bnce Yi Yan, what do you think of him?" Princess Qianyou responded with a question, leaving Zhong Shan to draw his own conclusions.


    Zhong Shan nodded in understanding.


    Three dayster, Zhong Shan and his group, escorted by the army, finally arrived at the Da Yu Empire''s capital, Sky City.


    General Iron Blood led Zhong Shan''s group in the front, with nearly eight thousand soldiers following behind. Standing on the clouds, Zhong Shan gazed at the distant Sky City, filled with awe.


    Sky City stood two thousand meters high, its entire structure shimmering with a white jade-like hue. At the top of the city, a golden haze gathered, concentrating above the entire city. This was the empire''s fortune, the umted destiny of the empire, which then flowed to the officials. The golden aura was so dense that Zhong Shan could even see a colossal creature within it.


    A dragon, a gigantic golden dragon formed entirely from the empire''s fortune, coiled and hovered above, its head slightly raised, its eyes half-open. It breathed lightly, absorbing the city''s fortune, its two horns pointed towards the sky as if receiving a divine mandate.


    This immense dragon circled above the vast Sky City.


    The true dragon, the Son of Heaven? Receiving the divine mandate? Is this the aura of an emperor?


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath, his eyes filled with shock. If an empire was like this, what about a heavenly dynasty? His own Da Ling Dynasty seemed like a small rural kingdom inparison; there was still a long way to go.


    In the distance, at the north gate of the Da Yu Empire''s capital, the words "Sky City" were prominently disyed.


    At the north gate, many soldiers were clearing the path, keeping the citizens away. Numerous officials stood outside the city, clearly there to wee Princess Qianyou and her entourage.


    Even from a distance, Zhong Shan could see the leading official clearly.


    The Grand Commander, Yi Yan?


    Yi Yan hade to wee them personally? Everyone frowned at this.


    The white clouds descended not far from the city gate. General Iron Blood stepped back slightly, allowing Princess Qianyou to lead the group forward.


    "Envoys from the Celestial Dynasty, Yi Yan apologizes for not weing you sooner. Please forgive me," Yi Yan greeted with his hands in front, his long sleeves joined together in a weing gesture.


    "Mr. Yi Yan is too modest. We have been escorted since Ba Huang City, for which we thank you," Princess Qianyou responded with a slight bow.


    "Two years ago at Fangshan, the princess''s elegance remained undiminished. It is an honor for Da Yu that the prince can apany you," Yi Yan smiled warmly.


    "Mr. Yi Yan is too kind. Your dedication to Da Yu is a model for us all," Princess Qianyou replied.


    "And the gentleman behind the prince, is he Mr. Shui Jing?" Yi Yan asked, looking towards Shui Jing.


    It was clear that Yi Yan had already seen Shui Jing''s portrait and was merely asking as a formality.


    "Greetings, Mr. Yi Yan," Mr. Shuijing greeted with a smile.


    "Mr. Shuijing''s reputation precedes him. I''ve long wanted to meet you. Now that you''re in Da Yu, you must visit my abode for a thorough discussion," Yi Yan replied with a smile.


    "Certainly," Mr. Shuijing nodded, a glint of anticipation in his eyes.


    "Please, follow me," Yi Yan said with a gesture.


    "Please," Princess Qianyou echoed, nodding.


    An official behind Yi Yan quickly summoned a cloud to carry Yi Yan gently into the city, while Princess Qianyou and the others followed suit on their own clouds.


    Entering the city, Zhong Shan looked up in awe. Sky City was far more magnificent than Wushuang City. In the distance, at the center, stood a radiant golden mountain. A series of white jade steps extended from the mountain top to the base, lined with numerous pces. At the peak, where the pce cluster stood, was the same coiled golden dragon they had seen outside the city.


    The base of the mountain was a golden expanse, obscuring any details within. Throughout Sky City, numerous floating inds were covered in red and blue light screens. The streets were wide, and thendscape featured beautiful rivers and mountains.


    Under Yi Yan''s guidance, they quickly arrived at a red-shrouded area in the city''s west��a private and heavily guarded domain. Inside were numerous picturesque buildings, and even a floating ind above.


    Landing on a square atop the floating ind, Yi Yan suddenly began coughing.


    "Cough... cough... cough..."


    A series of coughs left the officials looking worried, while Princess Qianyou and the others stood quietly until Yi Yan''s coughing subsided.


    Apologetically wiping his mouth with a silk handkerchief, Yi Yan said, "I apologize, my old ailment has red up again."


    "It''s nothing, Mr. Yi Yan. Your dedication to Da Yu is a blessing for the empire," Princess Qianyou quickly reassured him.


    "You''re too kind, Princess. His Majesty is currently in seclusion, preparing for a duel with the Great Mighty Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva eight months from now, so he couldn''t personally wee you. Also, coincidentally, Crown Prince Han Jue of the Great Light Empire arrived today, and King Julu is at the west gate to greet him. I hope you don''t mind," Yi Yan exined.


    "Not at all. Having youe out to wee us is already a great honor," Princess Qianyou replied.


    "Cough... cough... cough..." Yi Yan was seized by another coughing fit.


    "This is the ''Western Garden Pce,'' prepared especially for you. The officials from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty have already settled in. If you need anything, you can consult them. After your long journey, you must be tired. I won''t disturb you further and will invite you and the Prince another day," Yi Yan said.


    "Thank you for your consideration," Princess Qianyou responded.


    Yi Yan nodded and, with the help of the officials, quickly departed on a cloud.

 Chapter 201: Dragon Liver and Phoenix Heart

    <h4>Chapter 201: Dragon Liver and Phoenix Heart</h4>


    As Yi Yan departed, Princess Qianyou''s expression turned serious. "Two gentlemen, what do you think of Yi Yan after observing him closely?" Princess Qianyou asked Zhong Shan and Shuijing, who stood behind her, while she gazed into the distance.


    "Not a drop of water could leak through," Mr. Shuijing said, looking into the distance.


    "Tightly sealed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "A genius of his time, but unfortunately, great talents often face great tribtions. That he has this severe illness is not a blessing for Da Yu," Princess Qianyou sighed.


    "Qianyou, didn''t you previously say he was poisoned by someone and that''s why he got sick? How did it be heaven''s envy?" Gu Lin, who was standing nearby, frowned.


    "Human actions or heaven''s envy, is there a difference?" Princess Qianyou shook her head.


    Five dayster, in the Western Garden Pce of Sky City.


    Princess Qianyou and Gu Lin sat at the head, with Shuijing, Zhong Shan, A Da, and A Er seated below. With a wave of her hand, Princess Qianyou dismissed a Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty official, who respectfully retreated.


    On the table beside Princess Qianyou, there were two golden invitation cards. Both cards were imprinted with the characters "Invitation."


    "Invitations? Invitations from King Julu and Yi Yan. Did they n this together? Sending invitations simultaneously?" Gu Lin frowned.


    "Whether they nned it together or not isn''t important. What''s important is who else they invited and what their intentions are," Princess Qianyou narrowed her eyes.


    "Who else did they invite? Are you saying they invited others besides us?" Gu Lin asked in surprise.


    Looking at Gu Lin, Princess Qianyou sighed slightly, "Yes. The visitors have ulterior motives, and there is much to be deciphered within."


    "Crown Prince, I have already sent people to investigate over the past few days, and there has been some progress," Mr. Shuijing said in support.


    "Oh? Who are they?" Gu Lin asked.


    "King Julu invited us and the Crown Prince Han Jue of the Great Light Empire. As for Mr. Yi Yan, besides us, he also invited envoys from three other major empires," Mr. Shuijing exined.


    "Three other major empires? Which ones?" Gu Lin asked.


    "Surrounding the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, there are four empires in total. Besides Da Yu, there are three others," Mr. Shuijing said.


    "It''s them?" Gu Lin frowned.


    "Yes. Our dynasty has signed a ceasefire agreement with Da Yu, but we are still in conflict with the other three empires. So Yi Yan''s banquet is very delicate," Mr. Shuijing said, his brow furrowed.


    "Yi Yan, that old fox," Gu Lin immediately frowned.


    "Yi Yan is orchestrating a banquet involving the five major dynasties, maneuvering between them. In Da Yu, perhaps only Yi Yan can handle such intricacies," Mr. Shuijing nodded in affirmation.


    "And what about King Julu? Inviting the Crown Prince Han Jue of the Great Light Empire doesn''t seem asplicated," Gu Lin said.


    "Da Yu is sandwiched between our dynasty and the Great Light Empire. Besides the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, the Great Light Empire poses the greatest threat to Da Yu, with constant military conflicts. However, since the Great Light Empire is separated from our dynasty by Da Yu, there have been no direct conflicts between us. But if King Julu can create a conflict between our dynasty and the Great Light Empire, it would benefit them," Mr. Shuijing said, shaking his feather fan.


    "A conflict between our dynasty and the Great Light Empire? Even if there is a conflict, we can''t fight because Da Yu is in between. What''s the use?" Gu Lin asked naively.


    On the side, Zhong Shan continued sipping his tea, sighing softly and silently mourning for Mr. Shuijing. As expected, Mr. Shuijing looked shocked upon hearing Gu Lin''sments.


    "Of course it matters. The enemy of my enemy is my friend. Even if they are not friends, they are not mortal enemies. If our dynasty and the Great Light Empire be hostile, then during our war with Da Yu, the Great Light Empire won''t restrain Da Yu, and might even help them," Princess Qianyou exined directly.


    "Mm," Gu Lin nodded in understanding.


    Observing Gu Lin, Zhong Shan felt a sense of curiosity. Mr. Shuijing tolerated Gu Lin because he worked under the Grand Emperor, but why did Princess Qianyou also amodate him? Zhong Shan could see that Princess Qianyou was a very proud person. If it were anyone else who was this clueless, Princess Qianyou would have pped him away, regardless of his status. Why did she always take the time to exin things to Gu Lin?


    Frowning slightly, Zhong Shan remained silent. There was no need to ask, and he had no right to question it.


    "So what should we do? We have two invitations arriving simultaneously for the same day. Which one should we choose?" Gu Lin asked, frowning.


    "Yi Yan''s invitation specifically mentioned Mr. Shuijing. Besides, navigating between the five great dynasties indeed requires Mr. Shuijing''s expertise. You and Mr. Shuijing will go to Yi Yan''s ce. I will go with Zhong Shan to see King Julu," Princess Qianyou decided confidently after some thought.


    "Alright," Gu Lin nodded.


    Ten dayster, Princess Qianyou, apanied by Zhong Shan, A Da, and A Er, arrived at a private restricted area under the escort of Da Yu Empire officials.


    Outside the restricted area, a man in a dark cyan robe was waiting with a group of people. Seeing Princess Qianyou''s arrival, the man immediately approached.


    He was a tall and burly man with a short beard and a purple gold crown, exuding an air of nobility.


    "Princess Qianyou''s visit brings great honor to the Julu Mansion. I was upied with matters half a month ago and could not wee you personally. Please forgive me," the man said with a smile.


    "King Julu is too kind. I dare not ept such courtesy," Princess Qianyou replied politely.


    "Please,e in," King Julu invited.


    "Alright," Princess Qianyou nodded and smiled.


    Inside, simr to the Western Garden Pce, there was a floating ind. King Julu directly led them to the central hall, the Julu Hall.


    The Julu Hall had been arranged as a banquet hall. At the northern end was a table with some delicacies and spiritual fruits. Two rows of tables were set up below, with some officials already seated.


    "Princess Qianyou, please take your seats. We are still expecting one more distinguished guest. I will go to wee him," King Julu said with a smile.


    "Mm," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    A servant then led them to the northernmost area, to the right of the main seat. Princess Qianyou knelt down at the first table, with Zhong Shan at the second table to her right, A Da at the third, and A Er at the fourth.


    The officials below greeted Princess Qianyou, but she merely nodded slightly, paying them little attention, as they were destined to be mere spectators.


    As Zhong Shan sat down, he noticed something unusual. ncing at Princess Qianyou''s table and then at his own, a look of surprise shed in his eyes. The dishes on his table were different from those on Princess Qianyou''s table.


    Not only different, but extremely different. The dishes in front of Princess Qianyou were only present on three tables: one for Princess Qianyou, one on the main seat which would be King Julu''s table, and the third directly opposite Princess Qianyou, likely the table for the Crown Prince of the Great Light Empire, Han Jue.


    Normally, Zhong Shan wouldn''t pay much attention to what he was eating, but the dishes in front of Princess Qianyou were too peculiar. Besides the spiritual fruits, the two main dishes were extraordinary. One dish was golden and the other crimson red, both emitting a dense spiritual aura that was so thick it had turned into a liquid state.


    What kind of dishes are these?


    Noticing Zhong Shan''s curiosity, Princess Qianyou instructed a nearby servant, "Switch our dishes."


    "This...," the servant hesitated, looking troubled.


    At this moment, a steward-like figure approached. Upon hearing Princess Qianyou''s request, he said, "Princess, let me add a portion for him."


    "Alright," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    The steward took note of Princess Qianyou''s attitude, recognizing that Zhong Shan was someone very important to her. Soon, the same two dishes were ced in front of Zhong Shan.


    "Sir, don''t me King Julu''s residence for being stingy. Even in our Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, these two dishes are only served at grand banquets," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan replied, intrigued.


    "The golden dish is dragon liver, and the red dish is phoenix heart," Princess Qianyou continued.


    "Dragon liver and phoenix heart?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    Princess Qianyou nodded and smiled.


    At this time, outside, King Julu weed thest guest, Crown Prince Han Jue.


    "Prince Han Jue, please," King Julu said with a heartyugh, leading Han Jue inside.


    Crown Prince Han Jue had two attendants with him. He wore a ck robe, had a jade-like face, carried a jade folding fan, and exuded confidence. His eyes shone with intelligence. As he entered the hall, his gaze swept across the officials and finallynded on Princess Qianyou.


    Princess Qianyou gave a slight smile, and Crown Prince Han Jue nodded in return, surveying the people Princess Qianyou had brought with her. Among them, one man stood out, staring intently at the two dishes, seemingly deep in thought. This caught Han Jue''s attention because the man was holding a pair of chopsticks, frowning, analyzing where to start in such a solemn asion.


    Zhong Shan couldn''t help it. Dragon liver and phoenix heart��he had heard of these delicacies before but had never seen them. Now, with such divine cuisine in front of him, he didn''t know where to begin.


    "Prince Han Jue, please take your seat," King Julu said, guiding Han Jue to his ce opposite Princess Qianyou.


    King Julu then took his seat at the main position.


    "Today, to have the honor of hosting Princess Qianyou and Crown Prince Han Jue, I am immensely grateful. I raise this cup to both of you, wishing for evesting alliance and friendship among the three dynasties: the Great Light Empire, the Da Yu Empire, and the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty," King Julu said, lifting his cup of fine wine.


    Zhong Shan had no choice but to put down his chopsticks and drink along with the officials.

 Chapter 202: Countless Grains of Sand

    <h4>Chapter 202: Countless Grains of Sand</h4>


    At the Grand Banquet of the Giant Deer King, the initial conversations were filled with pleasantries and titudes. The guests exchanged glowingpliments, each kingdom''s representative speaking highly of their own realms and envisioning a grand future. It was a round of mutual ttery, with words as light as air and as free as the wind.


    Princess Qianyou handled the situation with ease, navigating the social niceties with grace. Zhong Shan, on the other hand, chose to remain silent, using the opportunity to savor a piece of dragon liver from the feast.


    As the dragon liver touched his tongue, it transformed into a surge of pure energy that coursed through his entire body. Zhong Shan felt an unparalleled sense of rity and power, as if he had momentarily achieved a state of oneness with the universe, transcending the mundane and gazing down upon the world with a detached grandeur.


    This sensation, though fleeting, left a profound impression on him. He nced at the remaining dragon liver on his te with a sense of awe. It was an extraordinary delicacy, more potent than a single Rebirth Pill, with a vor that lingered, leaving him yearning for more. The feeling of unity with the cosmos was something he greatly anticipated experiencing again.


    While the Giant Deer King, Crown Prince Han Jue, and Princess Qianyou continued their subtle verbal sparring, Zhong Shan indulged in the culinary delights before him. After the dragon liver, he reached for a strand of Phoenix Heart Silk.


    Much like the dragon liver, the Phoenix Heart Silk melted into a wondrous energy the moment it entered his mouth, swirling around before slowly descending into his stomach. Zhong Shan felt as though his entire being had transformed into a zing fireball, disintegrating into ashes, only to be reborn from the mes, experiencing a sensation akin to a phoenix''s rebirth. Though it was merely an illusion, the feeling of rejuvenation and newfound vitality left him in a state of lingering appreciation.


    As Zhong Shan reveled in the vors and sensations of the feast, the dialogue among the leaders seemed to reach a conclusion.


    "Princess Qianyou, Crown Prince Han Jue," the Giant Deer King began with a smile, "not long ago, a remarkable individual bestowed upon me a unique treasure. This treasure possesses a spirit of its own and seeks a worthy master. Unfortunately, it has remained unused in my domain, as it has yet to find such a person. On this auspicious asion, I hope to discover the rightful owner among us."


    "A treasure with a spirit that chooses its own master?" Crown Prince Han Jue eximed, snapping his folding fan shut in surprise.


    Zhong Shan, his chopsticks holding a piece of Phoenix Heart Silk, paused. Indeed, the true spectacle was about to unfold. He nced subtly at Princess Qianyou, who returned his look with a knowing gaze, both of them silently acknowledging the anticipation.


    Zhong Shan continued to savor the Phoenix Heart Silk, keenly interested in how the Giant Deer King intended to stir up discord between the two kingdoms. What kind of treasure was this? The Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty was not short of rare artifacts, so what caliber of treasure could the Giant Deer King possess?


    "Princess Qianyou is very intrigued," she responded, mirroring Crown Prince Han Jue''s expression of surprise and anticipation.


    Observing Crown Prince Han Jue, Zhong Shan was inwardly impressed. The prince appeared clever andposed, yet his words seemed to be guided by the Giant Deer King, maintaining a delicate bnce without appearing to lose ground. Outwardly, he seemed wless, but to those with discerning eyes, there was a hint of decay beneath the surface. Was he truly as formidable as he appeared? At least to Zhong Shan, the prince seemed highly adept, particrly in diplomatic finesse.


    The Giant Deer King pped his hands twice, signaling the entrance of four attendants who carefully carried in arge frame, followed by two more attendants holding an oversized scroll.


    cing the scroll beside the frame, they slowly began to unroll it.


    As the scroll unfurled, it emitted a dazzling golden light that immediately captured everyone''s attention. The light flickered briefly before fading, revealing the scene depicted within the painting.


    With a gentle smile, the Giant Deer King watched as Crown Prince Han Jue and Princess Qianyou turned their gazes toward the scroll, captivated by the unfolding mystery.


    Within the painting was a vast desert, under a zing sun. The boundless expanse of sand was so meticulously depicted that each individual grain seemed discernible. Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed as a peculiar feeling washed over him, as if the scene in the painting was a real, tangible world.


    "Is this the treasured artifact?" Crown Prince Han Jue asked, his eyes narrowing as he examined the scroll.


    "Indeed, this is the artifact," the Giant Deer King replied with a smile. "The artifact possesses a sentient spirit that chooses its own master. Let us see who among us it will deem worthy."


    "And how does one gain its approval?" Princess Qianyou inquired with a hint of curiosity.


    "Does this world within the painting appear real to you?" the Giant Deer King asked suddenly.


    "It does seem lifelike. Could it be that this painting is an actual world?" Han Jue asked in amazement.


    "I do not know for certain, but the sage who brought this artifact to me imed that each grain of sand in this painting is real. The key to unlocking this artifact lies in stating the exact number of grains. The number of grains serves as the activation incantation," exined the Giant Deer King.


    "Is that so?" Princess Qianyou responded with mild surprise.


    "The sage said that this painting was crafted over a hundred years. On the first day, he ced one grain of sand into the painting, on the second day, two grains, and so on, adding one more grain each day for a total of 36,550 days. While the grains form aplex pattern, they lie on a single ne, making them visible at a nce. A sweep with one''s divine sense could epass them all, but to count them urately is not a matter of a few breaths. Princess Qianyou, Crown Prince Han Jue, do either of you think you can determine the exact number of grains in a single nce?" the Giant Deer King asked with a sly smile.


    "Let us give it a try," Princess Qianyou agreed, nodding her head.


    "You are both renowned for your extraordinary talents. It is said that Crown Prince Han Jue has an infallible memory and is unmatched in mental calction in the Guang Emperor Dynasty, while Princess Qianyou''s subordinate, Ah-Er, is also known for his perfect recall and unmatched counting ability. How about we see who can count the grains more urately and quickly?" the Giant Deer King suggested, chuckling.


    "Agreed," said Crown Prince Han Jue confidently.


    "Very well," Princess Qianyou nodded in agreement.


    "Ah-Er," Princess Qianyou called.


    "Yes, Your Highness," Ah-Er responded, nodding and immediately focusing on the painting, beginning to count quickly.


    Counting? Zhong Shan''s eyes widened as he extended his divine sense over the painting. It was possible to count them this way, but such an endeavor would take an inordinate amount of time.


    Observing the serious expression on Crown Prince Han Jue''s face and Ah-Er''s concentration, Zhong Shan frowned deeply. Were they really attempting to count the grains? Even with the aid of divine sense, it was a wasteful and extravagant use of their abilities.


    Zhong Shan nced at the Giant Deer King, who smiled back with an air of confidence, as if believing that this painting alone could sow discord between the two dynasties.


    Princess Qianyou noticed Zhong Shan''s perplexed expression.


    "Sir, is there something amiss?" she asked softly, curious.


    Zhong Shan looked at her, thought for a moment, then took out a pen and paper. While everyone was engrossed in the desert painting, he began to write quietly.


    He handed the paper to Princess Qianyou, who looked at it with a slight frown. The paper bore only a sequence of nine numbers:


    66796525


    Princess Qianyou looked at the slip of paper in surprise, then at Zhong Shan, who had already resumed savoring his dragon liver and phoenix heart without another word.


    She nced at Zhong Shan, then back at the desert painting. Suddenly, a light bulb went off in her head, and a smile spread across her lips. Looking at Zhong Shan again, she felt a thrill of excitement. This time, Zhong Shan had taken the initiative.


    "Your Majesty, I have counted the grains," Crown Prince Han Jue announced suddenly.


    Hearing the prince''s words, Zhong Shan nearly dropped his piece of dragon liver, his eyes widening as he looked at the prince in astonishment.


    "Already counted? Not calcted, but counted? You''ve actually finished counting? That''s over six hundred million grains! And you did it in such a short time?" Zhong Shan''s thoughts raced as he observed the scene.


    Crown Prince Han Jue, brimming with confidence, nced at Ah-Er, who was still counting rapidly, beads of sweat forming on his brow. "We have our number as well," Princess Qianyou announced with a smile.


    Ah-Er, feeling a bit embarrassed and still in the midst of counting, looked to Princess Qianyou in confusion. He hadn''t finished yet. Ah-Da, standing beside him, gave him a gentle nudge, urging him to stop.


    The Giant Deer King, taken aback, questioned, "Oh? It took me nearly two hours to count back then. Yet, both of you managed to finish in less than the time it takes for half an incense stick to burn?"


    "Why don''t we justpare the numbers to find out?" Crown Prince Han Jue suggested confidently, though he cast a skeptical nce at Princess Qianyou.


    "Very well. How about both Princess Qianyou and Crown Prince Han Jue write down their numbers, and we''ll see if they match?" the Giant Deer King proposed with a hint of intrigue in his eyes.


    "I''ve already written mine down. All that''s left is for Crown Prince Han Jue to reveal his number forparison," Princess Qianyou said, unfolding the slip of paper Zhong Shan had handed her earlier. She held it carefully, her demeanor radiating assurance.


    "Oh?" The Giant Deer King looked surprised, ncing at the slip of paper in Princess Qianyou''s hand and then at Zhong Shan, who was still calmly enjoying his meal. Zhong Shan''s earlier, discreet actions had not gone unnoticed.


    "Very well. The number of grains is six hundred and sixty-six million, seven hundred ny-six thousand, nine hundred and twenty-five," Crown Prince Han Jue dered confidently, a hint of challenge in his eyes as he looked toward Princess Qianyou''s side.


    Zhong Shan continued eating unperturbed, while Ah-Er looked embarrassed and Ah-Da, who had seen the number Zhong Shan wrote, exuded confidence.


    Princess Qianyou, holding the slip of paper, knew there was no way to alter the numbers in front of so many powerful individuals. She unfolded it slightly to reveal:


    <strong>667,969,525</strong>


    The numbers matched exactly.


    Upon seeing the figures, Crown Prince Han Jue''s brows furrowed. He knew that the slip of paper had been in Princess Qianyou''s hand before he had finished counting. This meant that she had the number earlier than he did. How was that possible?


    The Giant Deer King''s pupils contracted as he looked toward Zhong Shan with a face full of astonishment.


    "Princess, who is this person beside you? Did he count the grains just now?" The Giant Deer King''s smile remained, but his eyes conveyed a deep seriousness.


    With his name mentioned, Zhong Shan finally stopped eating, setting down his chopsticks and sitting upright, leaving the exnation to Princess Qianyou.


    "Ah, the Giant Deer King has keen eyes. Yes, it was my advisor, Mr. Zhong Shan, who gave me the number. Actually, the Giant Deer King had already revealed the number of grains to us; there was no need for any further counting," Princess Qianyou said with a smile. She had understood Zhong Shan''s method as soon as he handed her the slip of paper.

 Chapter 203: Nian YouYou

    <h4>Chapter 203: Nian YouYou</h4>


    Chapter 203: A Moment of Insight


    "Mr. Zhong Shan was the one who enlightened me!" dered Princess Qianyou.


    Zhong Shan felt a flush of embarrassment. Princess Qianyou was quite direct, wasn''t she? Had she just openly imed him as hers?


    "When did I ever mention the number?" The Giant Deer King questioned in astonishment.


    Everyone turned to look at Princess Qianyou. Indeed, when had the Giant Deer King said the number? Had all their ears gone deaf, leaving only hers capable of hearing it?


    "The first day, one grain. Thest day, thirty-six thousand five hundred fifty grains. The sum of the first andst day equals the sum of the second and penultimate day, and so on. This pattern continues, which means eighteen thousand two hundred seventy-five pairs of thirty-six thousand five hundred fifty-one grains each, making up the total number of grains," Princess Qianyou exined with a smile.


    "Uh?" Everyone was momentarily stunned. It was indeed like that.


    Given this, if Crown Prince Han Jue and Princess Qianyou had reported different numbers, everyone would have believed Princess Qianyou, because her method left no room for error.


    "Han Jue is in awe," Crown Prince Han Jue quickly nodded, acknowledging her.


    Indeed, Princess Qianyou''s method involved a straightforward calction, allowing her to report the total number of grains without even looking at the painting, while he had used the most cumbersome method, working hard and still feeling proud of himself for counting them.


    Seeing Crown Prince Han Jue''s attitude, the Giant Deer King''s expression grew tense. Thest thing he wanted was for the two empires to findmon ground, as that would spell greater danger for the Great Yu Empire.


    "Ha ha, Princess Qianyou, your reputation is well-deserved. Your advisor, Mr. Zhong Shan, is truly remarkable. Out of everyone in the Giant Deer Hall, he was the first toe up with this method. I am deeply impressed," the Giant Deer King said with a heartyugh.


    Zhong Shan''s expression tightened upon hearing this. The Giant Deer King had a crafty mind. By praising him like this, he was putting others in a difficult position. Princess Qianyou wouldn''t mind, and her subordinates wouldn''t be concerned since they were merely followers. But what about Crown Prince Han Jue?


    As expected, Crown Prince Han Jue''s brow furrowed slightly when he looked at Zhong Shan. Losing to Princess Qianyou was one thing, but being outshone by a subordinate was truly frustrating.


    "The Giant Deer King overpraises. Mr. Zhong Shan specializes in this field, so it wasn''t difficult for him to think of it in advance. But what did the Giant Deer King mean by saying that the painting can be opened?" Princess Qianyou quickly shifted the topic.


    She had seen through the Giant Deer King''s intentions, swiftly diverting attention away from Zhong Shan, turning a passive situation into an active one, and bringing the focus back to the painting.


    Indeed, upon hearing Princess Qianyou''s words, Crown Prince Han Jue''s gaze softened. Specializing in this field? That made sense now.


    Seeing how Princess Qianyou defused his overt praise and covert criticism with a single sentence, the Giant Deer King smiled slightly and said naturally, "You just need to face the painting and state the number."


    "Princess, Crown Prince, please," the Giant Deer King invited them again.


    The Giant Deer King was cunning. Though he might not possess the great wisdom of Yiyan, his words often held hidden meanings. By asking the Princess and the Crown Prince to proceed, he was creating a subtle problem. How could both of them report the number together? It was neither fitting for their status nor in line with etiquette, leaving only one of them to do it. Who should report? By abstaining from reporting it himself, the Giant Deer King was adding a challenge for them. When the time came, whoever reported the number, the other would likely feel a tinge of dissatisfaction.


    "Since I fell short earlier, let the Princess go ahead," Crown Prince Han Jue suggested, seeming to understand the Giant Deer King''s intentions.


    "Thank you," Princess Qianyou nodded in acknowledgment.


    Facing the painting, Princess Qianyou spoke clearly, "Six hundred and sixty-six million, seven hundred ny-six thousand, nine hundred twenty-five grains of sand."


    As soon as Princess Qianyou finished speaking, all eyes turned to the painting. They saw the golden sun in the sky of the desert suddenly fall from the heavens, instantly crashing into the desert sands. When the sun hit the sands, the entire desert glowed a brilliant gold, with each grain of sand turning a shimmering golden yellow, emitting a faint light. Following this, the golden sands began to ripple, disying an incredible and magical scene.


    While everyone was in a state of amazement, suddenly, at the bottom center of the painting, a small opening appeared.


    "Shhhhhhhhh..."


    Arge amount of golden sand began to slowly pour out from the painting, falling onto the floor of the grand hall.


    "Sand from the painting?" The crowd focused intently on the scene, somewhat surprised but not entirely unanticipated. Earlier, King Ju Lu had mentioned that the sand within the painting had been added over a hundred years, with one grain being added each day. So, it wasn''t entirely unexpected for the sand to now flow out.


    The vast quantities of fine sand quickly covered the floor below the painting''s stand. The crowd patiently waited until all the golden sand had fallen. Then, the golden sand suddenly started to move, as if it were a single entity, spreading out over the floor of the grand hall, then quickly gathering back together. At one moment, it appeared like a long snake, slithering towards Crown Prince Han Jue, who looked on in astonishment. The sand then moved towards Princess Qianyou and finally stopped in front of Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes. Although he recognized the magical nature of the fine sand, he felt a provocative undertone to its movements. The cluster of golden sand kept moving around, as if to dere its value to everyone and arouse a desire for possession.


    The sand seemed almost sentient, exhibiting a form of life. Crown Prince Han Jue''s face lit up with excitement, while Princess Qianyou also showed an expression of anticipation.


    "Shhhhhhhhh..."


    The sandpleted a full circuit around the hall and then regrouped in the center. Under the astonished gazes of everyone, it began to spin like a tornado, growing higher and higher until it reached over a person''s height.


    The golden sand emitted a brilliant light, which then gradually dimmed. Suddenly, the sand transformed, no longer golden, but into something else entirely.


    The golden sand had turned into an incredibly alluring woman.


    The woman stretched her hands upwards, revealing a pair of baster-white wrists. Her hair was intricately pinned up, adorned with beautiful hair ornaments. Her eyes were gently closed, and ck eye shadow ented her lids, giving her a bewitching appearance. Her lips were a fiery red, andbined with her slightly furrowed brows, they exuded an expression that was a mix of sensuality and vulnerability. Even someone as steadfast as Zhong Shan couldn''t help but feel a strong urge to embrace her.


    Her arms raised overhead only served to entuate her shapely figure. She wore a gold crop top that tightly hugged her upper body, making her chest appear even more enticingly prominent. Her delicate, jade-like waist was encircled by a thick gold chain, which highlighted her slim, alluring waist, making everyone''s hearts burn with a hint of desire.


    She wore a pair of long pants studded with numerous beautiful gems, tightly wrapping around her voluptuous hips and slender legs. This appearance, even more so than nudity, ignited a sense of lust in the onlookers.


    Some of the officials present couldn''t help but gulp after just a nce.


    Zhong Shan frowned, feeling a tightness in his chest. Something wasn''t right! Looking around, he saw that Crown Prince Han Jue''s eyes were filled with possessive intent, and even Princess Qianyou seemed to harbor a desire to take hold of her. As for King Ju Lu, though he maintained a smiling facade while observing Princess Qianyou and Crown Prince Han Jue, his eyes asionally revealed a longing as well.


    Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes further. This woman transformed from golden sand was certainly beautiful, but her appearance was on par with Princess Qianyou''s. Why did everyone loseposure over her but not over Princess Qianyou? It was a deep, longing desire. Who exactly was this woman?


    Princess Qianyou initially seemed expectant but quickly regained her rity, frowning slightly as she observed the others, her heart tightening.


    Across from her, Crown Prince Han Jue underwent a simr shift, his initial desire turning into a cold sweat, his eyes now focused and serious.


    "I almost forgot to mention," King Ju Lu quickly exined from the side, "this picture is called ''Golden Sands.'' The spirit of the painting is embodied by this ''person'' formed from golden sand. The artifact chooses its master, and this woman will choose a master."


    As if she heard King Ju Lu''s words, the sensually graceful woman in the center of the hall slowly opened her tearful, sorrowful eyes. Gazing into her eyes felt like looking into a deep pool of water, overflowing with boundless tenderness and affection, as if a single nce from a man could utterly melt him.


    Her raised arms gradually lowered to the sides, and as they descended, they seemed to be enveloped in a shimmering veil of golden sand, sometimes visible, sometimes hidden, exuding an indescribable softness. Her graceful figure spun, surrounded by swirling sand that appeared to dance around her.


    With each step, the woman danced with the sand, performing an unprecedented dance in front of everyone. Arge quantity of sand reappeared, quickly forming human-shaped mounds on the floor, as if apanying her dance.


    "Shhhh," "Shhhhh," "Shhhh," "Shhhhhhh..." The sand seemed to beat a rhythm.


    The perfect woman, amidst a dance of golden sand, seemed to transport everyone into a fantastical world akin to a dreamlike lotus pavilion. The grand hall was filled with floating golden sand, with the woman appearing to be immersed in a sea of golden sand.


    Everyone appeared somewhat mesmerized, with a desire topletely possess her written on their faces.


    Zhong Shan''s expression turned cold, and the red lotus at his brow twitched slightly. Was this an illusion spell? A mesmerizing enchantment? ncing to his sides, he saw that Princess Qianyou had long since regained her rity, with a hint of admiration in her eyes. Both A-Da and A-Er had maintained theirposure; although they were not entranced by the illusion, there was a trace of gentleness in their eyes.


    Opposite, Crown Prince Han Jue was watching with narrowed eyes, lightly tapping his folding fan. While he did not exhibit the lust evident in others, a hint of affection had appeared in his gaze.


    As for King Ju Lu, while he looked at the sensuously alluring woman, his eyes, though not entranced, also held a trace of longing.


    "Whooooooosh..."


    As everyone remained entranced, the golden sand in the hall suddenly converged, shooting towards the center and vanishing in an instant, leaving only the frame of the painting and the sensually captivating woman. The woman finished her dance and gave a gentle bow to King Ju Lu, saying, "Nian Youyou, greets King Ju Lu."


    Her soft voice alone seemed to melt everyone. She was an exquisite beauty, a perfect femme fatale.

 Chapter 204: Transformation of Water and Fire

    <h4>Chapter 204: Transformation of Water and Fire</h4>


    "Nian Youyou? Abination of wildness and vulnerability, how could these two qualities exist in one woman? If it weren''t for seeing Nian Youyou, hardly anyone would believe that these two qualities could merge so perfectly."


    "Yoyo, these are the distinguished guests I invited, as I mentioned to you earlier. Take a look and see if you recognize them," King Ju Lu said.


    Nian Youyou nodded, her attitude not submissive, as if she were on equal footing with King Ju Lu. Of course, for a spiritual being of an artifact, and not even King Ju Lu''s artifact, it was understandable that Nian Youyou wasn''t overly respectful.


    Nian Youyou took small, measured steps and walked slowly to the left. She looked at Crown Prince Han Jue and smiled faintly. "This is the Crown Prince of the Grand Light Empire, Han Jue, unparalleled in intelligence, and the first of the Grand Light. And these two gentlemen beside him are Crown Prince Han Jue''s left and right aides."


    As she spoke, Nian Youyou squinted her eyes into crescent shapes, but they remained watery, causing the left and right aides to nod continuously, while Crown Prince Han Jue smiled faintly.


    Seeing Crown Prince Han Jue''s expression, Nian Youyou smiled back and walked towards Princess Qianyou''s side. That smile seemed like a stroke of genius, as even though Crown Prince Han Jue realized it was an illusion spell, he couldn''t help but be fooled, his eyes shing with fleeting desire.


    Approaching, Nian Youyou greeted Princess Qianyou and Zhongshan respectfully. "Yoyo greets the First Princess of Daluo, and the loyal and brave A-Da and A-Er."


    A-Da and A-Er nodded immediately, while Princess Qianyou smiled faintly.


    "Everyone''s names, Yoyo has heard King Ju Lu mention them before. Is this the renowned Zhongshan of the Kaiyang Sect, rmended by the elder of the Seven Stars Pavilion?" Nian Youyou seemed suddenly interested in Zhongshan and turned her gaze towards him once again.


    Hearing Nian Youyou''s words, Zhongshan''s expression tightened, and the chopsticks in his hand seemed to almost shatter from the pressure.


    "Yoyo, that''s a memorable name." Zhongshan nodded immediately.


    Receiving Zhongshan''s acknowledgment, Nian Youyou''s eyes suddenly sparkled. But her gaze didn''t linger on Zhongshan; instead, it slowly moved to the painting of the ''Golden Sands'' from earlier.


    Watching Nian Youyou walk away, Zhongshan felt a mixture of emotions. The Zhongshan of the Kaiyang Sect? How did she know about him being from the Kaiyang Sect? Was it what King Ju Lu said? Clearly not, as King Ju Lu''s attitude and expression just now indicated that he had no prior knowledge of Zhongshan''s background. When he came out of Tiang Indst time and went to the Daluo Empire with Elder Zixun, it wasn''t possible either. At that time, he was nothing more than an insignificant existence and couldn''t have drawn anyone''s attention, not to mention that he hadn''t even told General Tie Xue his name.


    What was going on? The Kaiyang Sect? Did she know about the Kaiyang Sect? Did she investigate him? No, she said, ''Is this the Zhongshan from the Kaiyang Sect rmended by the elder of the Seven Stars Pavilion?'' indicating that she expected him to be the Zhongshan from the Kaiyang Sect but wasn''t sure, and she wanted to confirm it because of his name.


    Did she investigate him? She just didn''t recognize him, and it seemed like there was some unclear rtionship or grudge between them?


    Coming to this conclusion, Zhongshan was extremely puzzled. He didn''t know Nian Youyou, so how did she recognize him? Tiang Ind, the Grand Majing Empire was where he acquired his power. Did she also know about that? Thinking of this, a cold sweat broke out on Zhongshan''s forehead, and he turned his head slightly to look at Princess Qianyou.


    Princess Qianyou also looked puzzled.


    "Everyone, this is Nian Youyou, the spiritual being of the ''Golden Sands'' artifact. As you all saw, as the alchemist who created this painting said, Nian Youyou is just one step away from bing a real person. To gain Nian Youyou''s recognition, one mustplete the final step. From now on, Nian Youyou will acknowledge whoeverpletes this step as her master and will belong to them," King Ju Lu said.


    "Oh? Transforming into a real person?" Crown Prince Han Jue eximed in surprise.


    Seeing the expression of Crown Prince Han Jue, King Ju Lu smiled slightly and said, "Indeed, the transformation into a real person, and that remarkable individual also mentioned that this painting is not solely his achievement but also involves the help of the heavens. Once Nian Youyou transforms into a person, she will possess the body of a Qian Ding."


    "Qian Ding? The leader of the Nine Cauldrons?" Princess Qianyou squinted her eyes.


    "Yes," King Ju Lu nodded, a hint of desire appearing in his eyes at the same time.


    "How do weplete the final step?" Crown Prince Han Jue immediately asked. Just now, he merely liked the idea, but upon hearing ''Qian Ding,'' he immediately showed a determined expression.


    Princess Qianyou also looked at King Ju Lu. She knew King Ju Lu wouldn''t lie at this moment. The body of a Qian Ding? What is a Qian Ding? Zhongshan had searched for information over the years. For women, the best physique was the Nine Cauldrons. Within Qian, Kun, Li, Kan, Zhen, Dui, and Xun, the body of the Nine Cauldrons could not only cultivate to a height that others could not reach in their own attributes but more importantly, their partners in Dao Cultivation, Ding Lian Golden Pills. The ''Ding'' refers to the woman, and the ''Dan'' refers to the partner in Dao Cultivation. Because of their physique, their partners could cultivate several times faster during dual cultivation. They could even improve their physique because of it. Here, the partner in Dao Cultivation might not necessarily be a man. Even if it was a woman, they could cultivate several times faster together. This was the absurdity of the body of the Nine Cauldrons. But the body of the Nine Cauldrons was rare, so rare that even in the Grand Luo Empire, there were not many to be found.


    "This step has yet to bepleted by anyone. Let Yoyo exin it," King Ju Lu pointed to Nian Youyou.


    At this moment, Nian Youyou also took down the painting and gently waved her hand. Suddenly, arge amount of water-like substance appeared in the nk canvas, seeming both real and illusory.


    She gentlyid the painting t on the ground, cing it in the middle of the hall. From a distance, the water in the painting seemed like a square pool, rippling with clear waves.


    "Yoyoes from this painting, bound by the painting. She can onlye out for two hours each day before being pulled back into the painting, imprisoned by it. The person who created the painting said that only by destroying this painting can Yoyo bepletely freed. But if destroyed by ordinary means, Yoyo will also dissipate along with this painting," Nian Youyou said with a bitter expression.


    With each smile and frown, she disyed utmost tenderness, and in the hall, everyone felt a sense of protection towards her.


    "Ordinary means won''t work, so is there a special method?" Crown Prince Han Jue asked.


    "Yes, when the painting falls to the ground, it bes a pool of water. As long as this pool of water is used to burn the painting, Yoyo will be freed. Whoever uses this pool of water to ignite the painting and burn it will be Yoyo''s master from then on. She will willingly serve them like an ox or horse," Nian Youyou said.


    Burn the painting with a pool of water? All the previously enthusiastic people suddenly felt a shock. Burn the painting with water? Use water to start a fire? Isn''t that a myth?


    Water and fire are fundamentally opposing elements. How can you make water ignite? Isn''t this storytelling?


    "King Ju Lu, is what Nian Youyou said true?" Princess Qianyou frowned and asked.


    "Yes, that''s what the remarkable individual said. If anyone present really uses this pool of water in the painting to burn the painting and takes Yoyo away on the spot, I will never interfere," King Ju Lu said confidently.


    With King Ju Lu''s affirmation, everyone looked at Nian Youyou again.


    "Miss Nian Youyou, what kind of water is this?" Crown Prince Han Jue got up and looked at the pool of water.


    "This is the purest water, without any impurities. It''s even purer than the water evaporated from rivers," Nian Youyou immediately looked at Crown Prince Han Jue with a hopeful expression, as if she hoped he could free her from her imprisonment.


    "Let''s discuss this," Crown Prince Han Jue said.


    "Thank you, Your Highness," Nian Youyou said softly and vulnerably.


    Crown Prince Han Jue immediately went to find the two people he had brought with him, and the three of them had a discussion, continuously exining in the meantime.


    On this side, Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan.


    "Sir, water can turn into ice when cold, into water when warm, and into mist when hot. Water is ultimately water. Without adding anything, it''s impossible for it to burn like oil. Water and fire are opposites. Among the Five Elements, water and fire are the most ipatible. Unless some special mes or bodies of water are involved, it''s impossible to break this rule. Do you agree with what I said?" Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan, her brows furrowed. Obviously, this was impossible. If water could burn, it would go against nature and thews of heaven.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou''s expression, Zhongshan looked slightly strange, with an indescribable taste in his expression.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s expression, Princess Qianyou was slightly stunned, then widened her eyes and looked at Zhongshan. "Sir, could it be that you..."


    Zhongshan nodded, a hint of strangeness shing in his eyes. Indeed, in this upper-ss society, it was still apetition of intellect and wisdom. Those with high cultivation and excellent aptitude could only be regarded as brutes.


    Seeing Zhongshan nod, Princess Qianyou was initially incredulous, very incredulous. Could Zhongshan really make water burn? Make water ignite into fire? How is that possible? Zhongshan had only reached the Innate stage a little over ten years ago, meaning he was only about two hundred years old. Could it be that he had ''inadvertently'' discovered it before?


    Looking at Zhongshan, Princess Qianyou sighed and said, "Then this woman belongs to you, sir." At the same time, she gave Zhongshan a fierce look.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou''s expression, Zhongshan closed his eyes and nodded, naturally understanding what Princess Qianyou meant.


    "Miss Nian Youyou, I have a solution," Crown Prince Han Jue suddenly spoke up from nearby.


    "Huh?" Everyone in the hall looked at Crown Prince Han Jue together. You have a solution? Zhongshan also looked at Crown Prince Han Jue in surprise. Could this prince and his two attendants really have thought of a solution?


    King Ju Lu lightly tapped his wine ss in his hand, a hint of surprise and disbelief shing in his eyes. He furrowed his brows slightly, as if he didn''t want him to have a solution.


    "Oh? Really?" Nian Youyou''s face lit up with surprise.


    "Yes, as long as I throw something into this pool of water, it will ignite," Crown Prince Han Jue said confidently.


    "What is it?" Nian Youyou stared at Crown Prince Han Jue with wide eyes, filled with anticipation.


    "Oil. As long as oil is thrown in and a small me is applied, mes will rise, and the painting will be destroyed in an instant," Crown Prince Han Jue said confidently, while one of his attendants behind him rubbed his beard in satisfaction. This method should be his idea.


    "But may I ask Crown Prince Han Jue, is it the oil that burns or the water? And what did the water do?" Nian Youyou immediately shook her head. Obviously, she had already thought of this method.


    Throwing oil into water may cause it to burn, but only the oil burns, while the water evaporates. How can you say the water is burning? Now, to ignite the water, to burn the water into fire, isn''t it turning water into vapor?

 Chapter 205: Fire Burns the Giant Deer Hall

    <h4>Chapter 205: Fire Burns the Giant Deer Hall</h4>


    After Nian Youyou finished speaking, Crown Prince Han Jue frowned. Was his method really unworkable? How could water catch fire? This was certainly the best method. In the Five Elements, water and fire are opposites, ipatible with each other. If water and fire could convert into one another, it would break the naturalws, the rules of heaven and earth, which is simply impossible.


    Seeing Crown Prince Han Jue frustrated, King Ju Lu''s eyes lit up. As expected, there was no solution. How could there be a solution?


    "Crown Prince Han Jue, Princess Qianyou, even the craftsman who created this painting couldn''t achieve it. It''s likely to be extremely difficult, not something one can think of on the spot. You are not restricted; whenever youe up with a method, you are wee toe to my Giant Deer Manor and take Nian Youyou away at any time," King Ju Lu said confidently.


    Hearing King Ju Lu''s words, Zhong Shan smiled faintly. He finally understood King Ju Lu''s n. You cane anytime? Indeed, if you don''t seed today, both parties will surely rack their brains. But by the time theye up with another ''feasible'' method, Nian Youyou will have already be someone else''s ve. A woman who longs to be freed bes someone else''s ve. This emotional entanglement would undoubtedly cast a shadow on even Princess Qianyou''s state of mind.


    "Does this mean Youyou will be forever trapped in the painting?" Nian Youyou showed a sorrowful expression.


    "Don''t worry, Miss Nian Youyou, I will find a way," Crown Prince Han Jue immediately said.


    Indeed, Crown Prince Han Jue fell into the trap. When he eventuallyes up with a ''feasible'' method and returns to the Giant Deer Manor, he will find out that Nian Youyou has already been taken away by Princess Qianyou. Whether it''s true or not, as long as King Ju Lu says so, it must be true.


    "Turning water into fire is not difficult. It happens to be within the expertise of my advisor, Mr. Zhong Shan, who specializes in this area," Princess Qianyou suddenly smiled.


    King Ju Lu''s previously triumphant smile froze. Again with your expertise? Specializing in turning water into fire? Nonsense, how is it that every difficult task is within your expertise?


    Simultaneously, all eyes turned to Zhong Shan. Turning water into fire? How could that be possible? Nian Youyou, on the other hand, looked at Zhong Shan with bright eyes, a sh of surprise and yfulness in her gaze.


    "Zhong Shan? Can you really make water turn into fire?" Nian Youyou immediately asked Zhong Shan.


    Opposite, Crown Prince Han Jue frowned, looking at Zhong Shan with disbelief.


    "Can I give it a try?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Of course," Nian Youyou immediately said.


    Zhong Shan nced at Princess Qianyou, who nodded. Only then did Zhong Shan walk away from the dining table and toward the center of the hall.


    Inside the hall, everyone watched Zhong Shan in the center. Could this person really achieve this? Water and fire are opposites; how could they convert into each other?


    King Ju Lu squinted at Princess Qianyou. Without a certain level of confidence, Princess Qianyou wouldn''t allow this person to try. Could it really burn? If it turns into fire, wouldn''t that ruin his n?


    Zhong Shan walked to the painting and gently touched the pool of water on the ground. A rectangr pool of water in the painting. He grabbed it lightly and confirmed that it was indeed the most ordinary water.


    Everyone watched Zhong Shan in the center. This person, though little-known, could make a name for himself if he seeded in converting water and fire through this battle. If he failed, he would be aughingstock.


    "Miss Nian Youyou, what is your cultivation level?" Zhong Shan directly asked.


    "Around Nascent Soul stage," Nian Youyou replied.


    Since seeing Ah Da and Ah Er hiding their cultivation, Zhong Shan was skeptical of what people outwardly disyed. At least those who used certain secret techniques to create anomalies in their cultivation couldn''t show their true levels. Zhong Shan asked this merely to gauge the extent of Nian Youyou''s capabilities.


    "Can you control the world within this painting?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I am the spirit of the painting, so naturally, I can control it," Nian Youyou said.


    Zhong Shan nodded. This was crucial for his next steps.


    "Well then, I need you to follow my instructions precisely," Zhong Shan said, his voice calm but filled with authority.


    Nian Youyou nodded, her curiosity piqued by what Zhong Shan might ask her to do.


    Zhong Shan''s Ingenious Solution


    Zhong Shan''s expression became serious as he looked at the pool of water. He knew that to ignite the water, he needed a technique that transcended ordinary means. This was not about conventional chemistry or physicalws; it was about understanding and manipting the deeper principles of the Five Elements and their interactions.


    "Miss Nian Youyou, I will need you to manipte the energy within the painting to its maximum extent. Align the water''s energy with the principles of extreme Yin," Zhong Shan said.


    "Extreme Yin?" Nian Youyou asked, her brow furrowed in confusion.


    "Yes, water in its natural state is already associated with Yin energy. But to make it burn, we need to transform it into a state of extreme Yin, where it paradoxically contains the seed of its opposite, extreme Yang. This is an advanced concept in the study of the Five Elements," Zhong Shan exined.


    Nian Youyou nodded, still somewhat puzzled but willing to follow Zhong Shan''s instructions.


    "Start by focusing your energy on the water, enhancing its Yin properties as much as possible," Zhong Shan instructed.


    As Nian Youyou began to concentrate, a cold, palpable aura emanated from the pool of water, its surface now shimmering with a faint, eerie light. The water started to exude a profound sense of cold, far beyond its natural state.


    "Good. Now, while maintaining that energy, introduce a controlled burst of Yang energy. This will not be a literal me but rather an energetic transformation that causes a reaction," Zhong Shan said, his voice steady and guiding.


    Nian Youyou focused intently, her brow furrowed in concentration. Slowly, a faint wisp of steam began to rise from the water, not from heat, but from the energetic transformation taking ce within the water itself. The onlookers, including Crown Prince Han Jue and King Ju Lu, watched in astonishment as the water, cold as ice, began to exhibit characteristics of fire.


    "Now, apply a small spark of your own energy to ignite the reaction," Zhong Shan said.


    Nian Youyou, her face pale from the effort, flicked her fingers, and a tiny, almost imperceptible spark of light flew from her hand to the pool of water. There was a brief moment of silence, and then the water erupted into a gentle, ethereal me, a fire that danced atop the water''s surface without consuming it, a miraculous sight that defied the conventionalws of nature.


    The Astonished Audience


    The hall fell into a stunned silence, the impossible scene unfolding before their eyes. The water, now enveloped in a ghostly me, burned steadily, illuminating the hall with a mystical glow. The mes were not consuming the water but coexisting with it in a delicate, paradoxical bnce of Yin and Yang.


    King Ju Lu''s face turned from surprise to disbelief, and finally to resignation. His meticulouslyid n had been effortlessly shattered by Zhong Shan''s unconventional approach. Princess Qianyou, her expression calm andposed, gave Zhong Shan an approving nod, acknowledging his brilliance.


    Crown Prince Han Jue stood in stunned silence, his earlier confidence and skepticism now reced by a begrudging respect for Zhong Shan''s ingenuity. He had never seen such a profound application of the Five Elements theory, something that turned the very fabric of their understanding of nature on its head.


    Nian Youyou, her face glowing with relief and gratitude, looked at Zhong Shan with a newfound admiration. Her long captivity within the painting was finally over, thanks to Zhong Shan''s unprecedented solution.


    "Thank you, Mr. Zhong Shan," Nian Youyou said, her voice filled with emotion.


    "It was my pleasure, Miss Nian Youyou," Zhong Shan replied, his tone calm and humble.


    As the ethereal mes continued to dance atop the water, the hall, once filled with doubt and skepticism, now echoed with the quiet awe of those who had witnessed the impossible.


    "Since that''s the case, it will be much easier," Zhong Shan nodded and said with a calm demeanor.


    "Much easier?" Nian Youyou cast a scrutinizing nce at Zhong Shan, her eyes full of skepticism.


    "Indeed. All I need to do is transform water into another state, and it will ignite instantly," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Ice? Water? Mist? Vapor?" Nian Youyou furrowed her brows in confusion. None of these forms of water could catch fire.


    With a slight smile, Zhong Shan asked, "Great Deer King, might I inquire if there is any gold, copper, or iron avable in the pce?"


    "Yes, but what do you need them for?" the Great Deer King responded, puzzled.


    "Just a fist-sized piece of each will suffice," Zhong Shan said, not offering further exnation.


    Soon, a few attendants brought gold, copper, and iron. Everyone looked at Zhong Shan with curiosity, except Princess Qian You, who smiled knowingly. She remembered how Zhong Shan had confidently solved a difficult problem involving threading a needle through an ant during theirst encounter.


    Examining the three metals, Zhong Shan turned to Nian Youyou and said, "Please, make the copper and iron into strips and the gold into a fine thread."


    "Huh?" Nian Youyou was slightly confused butplied. With a flick of her wrist, she molded the metals into the shapes Zhong Shan had described.


    Zhong Shan then tied the gold thread to the ends of the copper and iron strips and ced the metal strips into the pool of water.


    "Nian Youyou, watch closely. When bubbles start to form on the iron and copper strips, separate them to opposite sides," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Huh? Are you trying to heat the water and turn it into vapor?" Nian Youyou asked curiously. Vapor couldn''t ignite into mes, she thought.


    "Just do as I say," Zhong Shan replied.


    In front of everyone, a faint spark of electricity flickered between Zhong Shan''s fingers. The electricity traveled along the gold thread, and soon bubbles began to form on the copper and iron strips. Under Nian Youyou''s control, the bubbles quickly separated to opposite sides of the pool.


    "Did you see my actions clearly?" Zhong Shan asked directly.


    "Yes," Nian Youyou nodded, her eyes filled with a hint of confusion. It was just an electrical current. Could it be that Zhong Shan was proficient in lightning spells as well?


    "Can you do it?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Of course," Nian Youyou replied, perplexed.


    "Then it''s your turn!" Zhong Shan handed the gold thread to Nian Youyou without a hint of hesitation or concern for her feelings.


    Nian Youyou, somewhat bewildered, took the thread. It wasn''t a difficult task, and everyone present could see exactly how it was done.


    "Remember, the bubbles must not touch each other. Collect them separately andpress them into liquid form without letting them contact the pool water," Zhong Shan instructed.


    For a Nascent Soul stage cultivator like Nian Youyou, this task was exceedingly simple.


    "What are we doing?" Nian Youyou asked, intrigued.


    "Transform all the water into these two types of bubbles,press them, and you''ll understand. I haven''t added anything else," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    After speaking, Zhong Shan returned to the dining table, leaving Nian Youyou alone to continue the electrical process under the watchful and concerned eyes of the others.


    Nian Youyou''s skill was undeniable. It wasn''t long before she had converted all the water into two types of gas, andpressed them into liquids��one blue and the other white.


    Everyone frowned slightly as they observed the transformation.


    "It''s ready. Remove the iron and copper strips, and let the twopressed liquids touch. That will ignite the fire," Zhong Shan said.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s instructions, everyone felt a bit odd, even Nian Youyou.


    Throwing the copper strip, iron strip, and gold thread aside, Nian Youyou conjured a small me in front of her. The me was cast into the pool, and the two liquids within began to interact.


    "Ah Da, protect our dining table," Zhong Shan instructed calmly.


    "Huh? Yes, sir!" Ah Da responded immediately, forming a protective shield in front of Princess Qian You, Zhong Shan, and Ah Er, as if preparing for some impending danger.


    While everyone watched in bewilderment, the blue and white liquids touched the me.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������������������������������"


    The pool below the painting exploded with a thunderous roar the moment the three elements met. mes surged skyward, and a massive gust of air sted in all directions.


    It burned. A towering inferno erupted, shooting straight up and tearing off the roof of the Great Deer Pce. The violent wind blew in every direction, toppling tables and sending dishes flying, sttering food across the faces of the startled guests.


    A superheated current, a terrifying gale, surged outward from the center of the hall like a raging storm. Only a few high-level cultivators had managed to form protective barriers in time��those aligned with Crown Prince Han Jue, the Great Deer King, and Zhong Shan''s group, who had prepared in advance.


    Ah Da and Ah Er stared in disbelief. How could this be? The water burned? No, it exploded! No, it turned into fire? What was happening? Why did it ignite, and why did it explode?


    No one understood, except Zhong Shan. Everyone else, wide-eyed, watched the raging mes in shock. Nian Youyou did nothing to stop it. Although no one was hurt and she could have extinguished the fire with a wave of her hand, she didn''t. She just stood there, eyes wide with astonishment and wonder.


    Princess Qian You took a deep breath, looking at Zhong Shan with immense satisfaction. Water turning into fire��this teacher was truly omnipotent! Could it be that Zhong Shan had discovered this on his own?


    Of course, if Princess Qian You had asked, Zhong Shan would have said that back in his world, many people knew this��it wasmon knowledge for anyone who had attended high school. This was electrolysis: waterposed of oxygen and hydrogen, which, when subjected to an electrical current, separated into its gaseousponents. Although he couldn''t build a generator, he could certainly generate electricity with magic. Creating a current with spells was easy, especially since he didn''t have to do it himself.


    Compressed oxygen turned into a blue liquid, andpressed hydrogen turned into a white liquid. Thus, the water was transformed into hydrogen and oxygen. When hydrogen met a me, it ignited. Thepressed hydrogen, encountering the oxidizing oxygen,busted violently and exploded.


    The scene was one of utter chaos. Zhong Shan''s actions had caused a tremendous upheaval. Anyone hearing about this would be astounded. The first time he dined at the Great Deer Pce, he turned the ce upside down, blowing off the roof, overturning tables, and knocking officials off their feet. He left a massive hole in the pce, making it impossible for anyone to leave unscathed.


    But Zhong Shan''s situation was unique��so unique that even if the Great Deer King was angry, he had no outlet for his frustration!


    The painting had burned. Truly burned. The officials, who had been knocked down, scrambled to their feet, adjusting their hats and swallowing hard as they stared at Zhong Shan. They wondered if it had all been a dream. Water had turned into fire, a great ze, a burning inferno!

 Chapter 206: From Now On, I Am Yours

    <h4>Chapter 206: From Now On, I Am Yours</h4>


    An official, with a piece of vegetable still dangling from his face, stared at Zhong Shan in bewilderment. Water turning into fire? And even blowing up the Great Deer Pce like this?


    Not only that one official, but all the officials were fixated on Zhong Shan. They were struggling toprehend the simplicity of Zhong Shan''s actions. It was so simple, incredibly simple, that any Nascent Soul stage cultivator��or even a Golden Core stage practitioner skilled in lightning techniques��could aplish it. Water turning into fire? It was perplexing. If only Zhong Shan could do it, it wouldn''t cause so much inner conflict, but it seemed like everyone could potentially do it. Was it really that easy to break thews of nature?


    On the opposite side, Crown Prince Han Jue had lost interest in Nian Youyou. Although he still felt a bit reluctant, he wasn''t the type to be infatuated with women to the detriment of his duties. Being able to let go of attachments was essential for a crown prince of an imperial dynasty. If that weren''t the case, with so many princes in the Great Bright Imperial Dynasty, why were only a few chosen as crown princes? ncing at Zhong Shan with a hint of surprise, a faint smile formed on Han Jue''s lips.


    Ah Da and Ah Er were now in deep admiration of Zhong Shan. The way Zhong Shan had nonchntly set fire to the Great Deer Pce had elevated his image even higher in their eyes.


    Princess Qian You''s eyes sparkled with excitement. This teacher was truly magical, so amazing!


    The Great Deer King, seated at the main table, looked up at the massive hole in the roof with a sh of anger in his eyes. Lowering his gaze, he saw Zhong Shan still calmly eating dragon liver, and a fleeting look of coldness crossed his face.


    "Princess Qian You, your Mr. Zhong Shan is indeed very knowledgeable," the Great Deer King said to Princess Qian You, jealousy evident in his voice. He forced himself to believe that Zhong Shan had learned this from somewhere else, as it couldn''t possibly have been his own invention.


    Seeing the Great Deer King''s reaction, Princess Qian You nodded and smiled, "Yes, this is an ancient technique that Zhong Shan found in an old book. I never thought it woulde in handy today."


    "An old book? No wonder," the Great Deer King nodded slightly, his eyes narrowing. Clearly, he was very angry but had nowhere to vent his frustration.


    Standing in the center of the hall, Nian Youyou stared at the burnt painting with wonder in her eyes. Water had turned into fire? No, even more amazing was that after the fire burned, it turned back into water. The fire burned, and then it was just water again. Water into fire, and fire into water?


    If Zhong Shan knew what Nian Youyou was thinking, his jaw would have dropped. Yes, oxygen and hydrogen burn and leave only water, but for Nian Youyou to see this molecr process with her naked eyes? How was that possible? What was her cultivation level? Did she have eyes like high-powered microscopes?


    As if hearing the conversation behind her, Nian Youyou quickly turned her attention away from the burnt painting and looked at Zhong Shan. Under the envious gazes of everyone, she walked over to Zhong Shan.


    "Master, from now on, I am yours!" Nian Youyou bowed slightly to Zhong Shan and then obediently stood behind him, looking every bit like a loyal servant.


    Master? Even the way Nian Youyou spoke seemed to carry an enormous seductive power. The curious gazes of the officials turned into jealousy and envy.


    Seeing the fleeting smile on Nian Youyou''s face, Zhong Shan knew she had done it on purpose.


    With the pce in ruins, the Great Deer King had risen from his seat. He looked at Nian Youyou addressing Zhong Shan as "Master," and his eyes were filled with jealousy.


    "My lord!" At this moment, a guard suddenly rushed into the hall.


    "What is it?" The Great Deer King, already angry, snapped.


    "Someone just reported that there''s a thief in the Great Deer Pce!" the guard whispered.


    "What?" The Great Deer King''s face showed a hint of panic.


    It seemed as if the Great Deer King suddenly remembered something important. He nced at Princess Qian You and then said, "Princess Qian You, Crown Prince Han Jue, please wait a moment. I will return shortly."


    "Okay," Princess Qian You replied, and Crown Prince Han Jue nodded in agreement.


    With that, the Great Deer King hurriedly dashed out of the hall, clearly in a rush.


    Now, the once grand hall was left in a state of disarray. Officials, looking rather bedraggled, were strewn about, along with the two factions of Crown Prince Han Jue and Princess Qian You.


    "Let''s go. I''ll wait for the Great Deer King in the square. We can''t stay in this hall any longer," Princess Qian You suddenly said with a smile.


    "Very well," Crown Prince Han Jue agreed with a nod.


    Princess Qian You led the group out of the hall. Nian Youyou followed closely behind Zhong Shan, so closely that she almost seemed to cling to his coattails. The officials watched this scene with a sense of deep regret, envying Zhong Shan even more. It was as if a beautiful flower had been given to a pig.


    Crown Prince Han Jue smiled slightly, showing the grace befitting a prince. Only his two subordinates, Left Minister and Right Minister, had a sh of jealousy in their eyes.


    Princess Qian You and Crown Prince Han Jue exited the damaged Great Deer Pce, and everyone else followed, quickly moving to the square.


    Princess Qian You, along with Ah Da and Ah Er, went straight to the edge of the floating ind, gazing in all directions at the scenery. Zhong Shan noticed that Ah Er''s eyes were especially focused, as if he didn''t want to miss a single detail.


    While waiting, Nian Youyou continued to gaze at Zhong Shan with herrge, sparkling eyes, so much so that the officials waiting nearby were nearly melting from her gaze. Zhong Shan, however, seemed oblivious, like a piece of wood, not noticing anything.


    After about the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, the Great Deer King flew over from a distant side hall, a look of relief on his face.


    "Princess Qian You, Crown Prince Han Jue, I apologize for today. I never expected the banquet to turn out so badly," the Great Deer King said immediately.


    "No problem," Princess Qian You replied, shaking her head.


    "No, I found today to be quite fulfilling," Crown Prince Han Jue said with a smile.


    "I''m sorry for the poor hospitality. I hope to invite you both again another day," the Great Deer King continued, making it clear that today''s banquet was over.


    "Alright," Crown Prince Han Jue agreed directly with a nod.


    "Great Deer King, I have a request," Princess Qian You suddenly said.


    "Oh?" The Great Deer King looked at her curiously.


    "In the Sky City, within the Heavenly Prison, there are some former officials from our Da Luo Dynasty. I would like to visit the prison. I hope the Great Deer King can make this convenient for me," Princess Qian You said earnestly.


    Frowning, the Great Deer King looked at Princess Qian You for a moment before finally smiling and saying, "Alright, I''ll inform the guards."


    "Thank you," Princess Qian You nodded.


    Zhong Shan furrowed his brow slightly but didn''t ask any questions.


    Afterward, the Great Deer King escorted them to the edge of the red light barrier outside the Great Deer Pce. He watched as Princess Qian You and Crown Prince Han Jue flew away with their respective entourages. Once they were out of sight, the Great Deer King''s smiling face turned cold, and with a flick of his sleeve, he turned back towards the pce.


    Throughout the journey back, Zhong Shan and his group didn''t say much. When they reached the square in front of the Western Courtyard Pce, Princess Qian You finally turned to Zhong Shan with a smile and said, "Sir, congrattions on winning a beauty!"


    At this moment, Nian Youyou lowered her head, looking shy and delicate, making her appear even more endearing.


    Zhong Shan''s expression remained neutral as he walked behind Princess Qian You. His previously smiling face suddenly became stern.


    "Ah Da, Ah Er, seize her!" Zhong Shanmanded sharply.


    zhongshan''s sharpmand made his gaze pierce through Nian Youyou, who trembled with fear and disbelief. Even Ah Da and Ah Er hesitated for a moment. Seize her? Seize whom? Seize Nian Youyou? What did Sir want to do?


    "Why haven''t you seized her yet?" Princess Qian You suddenly spoke up.


    "Yes," Ah Da and Ah Er immediately responded.


    Then, in a sh, they each left behind a residual image and rushed towards Nian Youyou.


    "Boom~" "Boom~"


    Nian Youyou suddenly transformed into a handful of sand and mist.


    "Master, you have a cruel heart!" Nian Youyou''s figure reappeared in mid-air, her face showing extreme resentment.


    "Nian Youyou, who are you exactly? Why do you know me?" Zhong Shan looked coldly at the Nian Youyou formed by fine sand particles.


    "Haha, Zhong Shan, how interesting! It turns out you are truly extraordinary. Interesting, interesting!" Nian Youyou''s expression changed suddenly. She appeared like a wanton enchantress, exuding an arrogant and wild aura.


    The change in temperament was too abrupt. How could there be such a person? Temperament is the hardest thing to change. How could she change so quickly?


    Ah Da and Ah Er swiftly ascended into the sky, ready to grab her, but Nian Youyou''s figure flickered in mid-air, suddenly splitting into two Nian Youyous.


    Two Nian Youyous? Ah Da and Ah Er were taken aback, then each went after one of them.


    "Boom~" "Boom~"


    The golden sand exploded, and Nian Youyou disappeared again.


    "Haha, Zhong Shan, I''lle back to find you!" A mockingughter suddenly came from the distant sky.


    Looking in the direction of the sound, a streak of golden sand quickly flew past in the distance.


    Ah Da and Ah Er wanted to chase after her again.


    "No need to chase." Princess Qian You frowned.


    Ah Da and Ah Er immediately flew back to Princess Qian You''s side.


    "Princess," the two of them frowned and called out.


    "You won''t catch up to her. She''s a descendant of immortals, and this is her inherited ability," Princess Qian You frowned slightly.


    "Yes," Ah Da and Ah Er had to give up.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan frowned as he looked into the distance. Nian Youyou? Nian Youyou? Who exactly was she?


    "Sir, do you know the origins of this woman?" Princess Qian You looked at Zhong Shan.


    "I don''t know, but I''m certain she''s not just a spirit from a painting. Descendant of immortals? I''m puzzled," Zhong Shan thought with furrowed brows.


    "Since you''re not familiar, let it be. It seems this woman has some grievances with you, but nothing major," Princess Qian You analyzed, looking at the distant disappeared golden sand.


    "Okay," Zhong Shan nodded, but he couldn''t help but still feel puzzled. He had just arrived in the Divine Land, so why would someone know him?


    "Sir, in fact, when we came to the Sky City this time, the Emperor gave me a secret edict," Princess Qian You suddenly looked at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nced at Princess Qian You. Although he had guessed it earlier, he still asked with confusion, "Oh?"


    "Hehe, I think Sir must have already figured it out. Because this secret edict is quite special, only I know about it, and even Ah Da, Ah Er, Gulin, and Shuijing don''t know." Princess Qian You said.


    Obviously, before they set off from the City of No Return, Zhong Shan''s loyalty in Princess Qian You''s heart was not as high as Ah Da and Ah Er''s.


    "What does the Princess mean by this?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "I want to inform Sir that I hope you can help me brainstorm, and at the same time inform Gulin and Shuijing as well," Princess Qian You looked at Zhong Shan directly.


    "Then let''s wait for them toe back," Zhong Shan nodded.

 Chapter 207: Execution of the Envoy

    <h4>Chapter 207: Execution of the Envoy</h4>


    Inside a side hall at the very center of the pce in the Sky City, three dining tables wereid out, adorned with delicacies like dragon liver and phoenix heart. Seated at the two lower tables, one to the left and one to the right, were the Deer King and Yiyan. The head seat was upied by a man dressed in a golden dragon robe, exuding an aura of arrogance so intense that even a mere nce at him seemed to pierce through the clouds. His eyes gleamed with a golden light, emanating an unmistakable air of authority.


    This man was Nn Piaoxue, the Emperor of the Great Yu Empire.


    "After the banquet, what gains did you two achieve?" Nn Piaoxue inquired.


    "Your Majesty, at my pavilion, I discovered that the Shui Jing gentleman is indeed a great talent in the world," Yiyan replied first.


    "Shui Jing? The one who served under the Great Xuan King but was never put to good use?" Nn Piaoxue asked with a frown.


    "Yes, had the Great Xuan King employed him, the chaos of a hundred years ago in the Great Yu Empire might have turned out differently," Yiyan sighed.


    "How does his talentpare to that of the Grand Marshal?" Nn Piaoxue asked, looking at Yiyan.


    "His talent is on par with mine. The presence of Mr. Shui Jing is not a blessing for the Great Yu Empire," Yiyanmented with a sense of admiration.


    "Indeed." Nn Piaoxue nodded slightly, then turned his gaze towards the Deer King.


    "Deer King, I heard that your Deer Hall was destroyed by someone from Princess Qianyou''s entourage?" Nn Piaoxue said with a smile, looking at the Deer King.


    "Your Majesty, during this banquet, Princess Qianyou''s advisor, Mr. Zhongshan, disrupted everything. His abilities are quite peculiar," the Deer King reported.


    "Oh?" Nn Piaoxue looked at the Deer King with interest.


    The Deer King then recounted everything that had transpired at the Deer Hall.


    As he spoke, Nn Piaoxue maintained a slight smile, while Yiyan listened with a furrowed brow.


    "Deer King, this Mr. Zhongshan you mentioned, was he the unremarkable-looking man standing beside Princess Qianyou, the one with a cultivation level of Jindan Stage?" Yiyan asked, his brow furrowed.


    "Yes, he is at the fourth level of the Jindan Stage," the Deer King confirmed.


    "I noticed him earlier. Anyone who can stay by Princess Qianyou''s side is certainly not an ordinary person. However, he is too unfamiliar; I have never heard of him before. By the way, do you know when he started following Princess Qianyou?" Yiyan inquired.


    "I''m not sure, but ording to Nian Youyou, he is a disciple of the Kaiyang Sect, rmended by the Seven Stars Hall. He had the incredible fortune toe across an ancient book and learn how to transform water into fire," the Deer King thought for a moment and replied.


    "A disciple of the Kaiyang Sect? Tiexue mentioned that two years ago he encountered Zixun Fairy from the Seven Stars Hall. At that time, she was taking some people to Wushuang City. This coincided with the Wushuang City Lord election. The southern city candidate, Shui Tianya, backed by the Shui Jing gentleman, eventually won in an astonishing reversal against the northern city candidate, Mo Baili. Although Shui Tianya lost, the tactics used by the Shui Jing gentleman didn''t align with Princess Qianyou''s style. Could this Mr. Zhongshan actually be Shui Jing?" Yiyan suddenly asked in surprise, a look of disbelief crossing his face.


    "Zhongshan?" Nn Piaoxue asked with a frown.


    "Everything is still unclear. I need to find some time to meet this Zhongshan," Yiyan said, squinting and deep in thought.


    "Your Majesty, I apologize for my failure," the Deer King immediately said.


    "The failure that day was not your fault," Nn Piaoxue said calmly.


    "Your Majesty, I request permission," Yiyan suddenly bowed deeply to Nn Piaoxue.


    "Really? Yiyan, what do you have in mind?" Nn Piaoxue asked, puzzled.


    "Your Majesty, I request permission to create a rift between the Great Luo and Great Guang Empires. Since their envoys are currently in the Sky City, we can kill Princess Qianyou and her entourage, and then frame Prince Han Jue for the crime," Yiyan respectfully proposed.


    "ng~~~"


    Startled, Nn Piaoxue identally knocked over his wine cup. Even the Deer King, at this moment, looked at Yiyan with utter astonishment.


    "Grand Marshal, the two empires just signed a ceasefire agreement. How can we possibly kill the Great Luo Empire''s envoy?" the Deer King asked, wide-eyed.


    "Why did the Great Luo and Great Yu Empires sign a ceasefire agreement in the first ce? For Great Yu, it was because the Great Guang Empire and two other empires continuouslyunched attacks. Continuing the war with Great Luo would have inevitably led to a repeat of the situation from a hundred years ago, where four empires besieged us. That would have spelled disaster for the Great Yu Empire. As for the Great Luo Empire, they agreed to the ceasefire because they were constrained by the other three major empires. But the situation is different now," Yiyan quickly exined.


    "What''s different? If war breaks out, the Great Guang Empire and the other two empires will certainly once again bring their armies to the Great Yu Empire," the Deer King said with a frown.


    Giving the Deer King a nce, Yiyan said, "Over the past two years, I have driven out all the garrisons of the two empires from within the Great Yu Empire. As for the Great Guang Empire, as long as Princess Qianyou and the Crown Prince of Great Luo are killed by the Great Guang Empire''s prince, we won''t have to worry about their involvement in the conflict. In fact, the Great Guang Empire might even help us clear out the armies of the other two empires, ensuring that our Great Yu Empire has no threats from behind."


    "Ridiculous! You had troops protecting Princess Qianyou on her journey here, and now that she is in our Sky City, you want to kill her? If that happens, the Great Yu Empire will bear full responsibility," the Deer King immediately rejected the idea.


    "The Deer King has a point," Nn Piaoxue nodded in agreement.


    Seeing this reaction from Nn Piaoxue, Yiyan became anxious.


    "<i>Cough~~~cough~~~cough~~~</i>"


    Yiyan broke into a fit of harsh coughing, which made Nn Piaoxue frown and sigh softly.


    Once the coughing subsided, Yiyan spoke again, "Your Majesty, the other three empires are currently fully engaged in battle with the Great Luo Empire. This presents a golden opportunity for the Great Yu Empire. A ceasefire would only nurture a greater threat. We should seize this chance to join forces with the other three empires to attack the Great Luo Empire. Only by destroying the Great Luo Empire can the Great Yu Empire be free of future worries. I assure you, I can handle the assassination of Princess Qianyou and her entourage quietly and discreetly, making even Prince Han Jue believe he was responsible for her death."


    Yiyan looked at Nn Piaoxue with anticipation, while Nn Piaoxue furrowed his brows, deep in thought.


    "No, absolutely not. Assassinating Princess Qianyou is one thing, but it cannot happen in the Sky City, and it cannot happen in the Great Yu Empire. You can arrange for them to die elsewhere, but not within the Sky City. Otherwise, the Great Luo Empire and the Great Yu Empire will be at each other''s throats with no end," the Deer King quickly interjected.


    Hearing the Deer King''s words, Nn Piaoxue nodded. If Princess Qianyou were to die in the Sky City, regardless of who the actual perpetrator was, the Great Luo Empire would hold the Great Yu Empire responsible, leading to endless conflict.


    "<i>Cough~~~cough~~~cough~~~</i>"


    Yiyan started coughing violently again, clearly infuriated by the Deer King''s words, feeling a sense of suffocation.


    After the coughing ceased, Yiyan said urgently, "Your Majesty, the Great Yu Empire and the Great Luo Empire are already in a state of irreconcble enmity. With the Great Luo Empire currently constrained by the three other major empires, if we wait for them to free up their forces, the Great Yu Empire will face certain destruction. Rather than regretting itter, we should strike decisively now. Once the Great Luo Empire is eliminated, the Great Yu Empire will have peace and security for a thousand years in this region."


    "Grand Marshal, since when have you be so impulsive? Assassinating Princess Qianyou could be done outside, in another dynasty. Why insist on doing it within our Great Yu Empire? If Princess Qianyou and her entourage were to die here, we would have no room for maneuver. Are you suggesting that everyone in our Great Yu Empire burn all bridges and risk everything with you for some unknown oue?" the Deer King immediately objected.


    "Deer King makes a valid point. Yiyan, you should drop this idea," Nn Piaoxue decided promptly.


    Upon hearing Nn Piaoxue''s decision, Yiyan suddenly red at the Deer King, his eyes zing with fury. Pointing at the Deer King, he shouted, "Fool! Foolish ignoramus! You are a traitor to the nation!"


    Yiyan''s outburst left the Deer King grim-faced, and even Nn Piaoxue looked displeased. A traitor to the nation? Wasn''t that implying that he was also a traitor?


    "<i>Cough~~~cough~~~cough~~~</i>"


    Yiyan began coughing violently again, pulling out a white handkerchief to cover his mouth. After a fit of intense coughing, the handkerchief was stained with spots of fresh blood.


    Seeing the blood, Nn Piaoxue''s initial anger faded. He looked at Yiyan and sighed softly��


    Western Pce


    At this moment, only Princess Qianyou, Gulin, Mr. Shui Jing, Zhongshan, Ah Da, and Ah Er were present. Everyone else had been cleared out.


    In the center of the group, there was a jade table, and on it was a projection. The projection showed a partial view of the Deer King''s mansion. It wasn''t recorded at the time but rather conjured up by Ah Er using a spell from memory, highlighting key details.


    "Qianyou, what''s going on? Why the secrecy?" Gulin asked curiously.


    "I''m about to tell you something very important, a secret decree from His Majesty. Apart from the six of us, no one else should know," Princess Qianyou said solemnly.


    "Understood," everyone nodded in agreement, even Gulin became serious immediately.


    A secret decree from His Majesty?


    Princess Qianyou looked at everyone and said, "This trip to Sky City is not just to celebrate and observe the battles. We have two main objectives: one is to rescue a person from our Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, and the other is to retrieve a valuable artifact."


    "Rescue someone and retrieve a treasure? Who and what treasure?" Gulin asked with a frown.


    "Former city overseer of Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, Wu Wanli, and the ''Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror''," Princess Qianyou said seriously.


    "Wu Wanli? Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror? In Sky City?" Gulin eximed. Mr. Shui Jing also furrowed his brows, while Ah Da and Ah Er, who were already informed, remained calm. Zhongshan, however, still had no idea about the significance of these two items.


    "Exactly. They are in Sky City. Our task is to bring both of them back to the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty," Princess Qianyou confirmed confidently.

 Chapter 208 - 209: The Law Cannot Show Favoritism

    <h4>Chapter 208: Chapter 209: The Law Cannot Show Favoritism</h4>


    In the City of the Sky, there was a heavily guarded area where numerous powerful individuals were stationed, and various formations were set up to ensure internal security. This was the Great Yu Empire''s prison, a ce where important prisoners of the empire were held.


    Princess Qianyou, Gu Lin, Shui Jing, Zhong Shan, Ah Da, and Ah Er arrived at the prison under the escort of several officials from the Great Yu Empire. They were here to visit a high-profile prisoner.


    "Princess, the Deer King has given instructions that you may visit the prisoner, but we must be present during the visit," said one of the officials.


    "It''s fine. We''re just here to take a look," Princess Qianyou nodded in agreement.


    With that, Zhong Shan and his group, along with the three officials from the Great Yu Empire, entered the prison.


    The prison had a series of powerful formations above, and below, there were long buildings divided into numerous cells.


    "Who are you people? How dare you trespass in the prison?" a voice suddenly shouted.


    A man with a somewhat rugged appearance and a stern face suddenly blocked their way.


    "How dare you! Who are you? Do you dare to defy the Deer King''s orders? Didn''t your superior inform you?" an official beside Zhong Shan immediately rebuked.


    "I am Lu Jianping, a prison guard. My lord did mention that people from the Great Luo Celestial Court would be visiting, but how do I know you are really from the Great Luo Celestial Court? What if you are impostors?" the man replied with a troubled expression.


    "You...!" Gu Lin pointed at Lu Jianping with a look of anger and shame.


    How dare a lowly guard make things difficult for the emissaries of the Great Luo Celestial Court? Is this the Deer King''s intention? Is he trying to humiliate us?


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed slightly, and he furrowed his brows. Lu Jianping?


    "Rubbish! I''m leading them. How could there be any mistake? Bring your superior to see me!" the official beside Zhong Shan said angrily.


    "Jianping, what are you doing? Didn''t I instruct you earlier?" At this moment, another official walked out from within the prison. He appeared to be the head of the prison.


    "My lord, I wasn''t sure if they were really from the Great Luo Celestial Court. Last time, someone posed as them," Lu Jianping exined with a distressed expression.


    "How long have you been here? What do you know? Get out of the way. Don''t block them," the head of the prison scolded.


    "Yes, my lord," Lu Jianping immediately stepped aside.


    "Sir, I apologize. This guard hasn''t been at the prison for long," the head of the prison said with an apologetic smile.


    "Hmph!" The official beside Zhong Shan snorted and flicked his sleeve, clearly very angry.


    However, Gu Lin and the others noticed that it didn''t seem to be an intentional insult from the Deer King.


    "Princess, Heir, please," the previous official said with a bow.


    Princess Qianyou nodded and followed the official into the prison.


    "My lord, are these people really from the Great Luo Celestial Court? Could it be likest time, where they posed as visitors to extract information from the prisoners?" Lu Jianping whispered to the head of the prison.


    "Nonsense! Could anyone impersonate the Princess and the Heir? Moreover, they were personally greeted by the Grand Marshal when they arrived at Sky City. Your sister-inw happened to be at the city gate that day, and she recorded their appearances with a memory crystal. I would recognize them anywhere��Princess Qianyou and Heir Gu Lin," the head of the prison said with a smug expression.


    Upon hearing this, Lu Jianping''s eyes lit up. He immediately said, "My lord, I was wrong earlier for causing trouble for you. Let me personally lead them and make up for my mistake. It will help restore your image in the eyes of our superiors."


    "You? You''re not done embarrassing me?" The head of the prison red at him, clearly not allowing it.


    "My lord, think about it. The bad impression I made is already in our superiors'' minds. No matter how well anyone else performs, it won''t erase my bad impression. To make our superiors forget it, I must make up for it myself. Otherwise, if theyin to the Deer King, your future prospects could be ruined. I can''t let that happen to you," Lu Jianping said with a look of urgency.


    Inside the prison, there were about a thousand prisoners, including those from the Great Yu Empire and dozens from other dynasties, among whom were six from the Great Luo Dynasty.


    "Princess, Heir, I apologize for my oversight earlier. I didn''t realize you were emissaries from the Great Luo Dynasty," Lu Jianping hurriedly said as he approached them.


    "It''s alright," Princess Qianyou nodded with a smile.


    "Although I haven''t been a guard here for long, I know every single one of the prisoners here�� who they are, their habits�� even better than what''s recorded in the prison ledger. Let me guide you, Princess and Heir," Lu Jianping ttered.


    "Even better than the prison ledger?" Princess Qianyou was surprised.


    "Yes, within the entire prison, when ites to understanding the prisoners, I rank second. Well, except for the warden, of course," Lu Jianping said.


    Impressed, Princess Qianyou nodded, "Alright."


    Seeing Princess Qianyou''s approval, Lu Jianping became excited and asked, "Whom would you like to meet, Princess?"


    "The six prisoners from the Great Luo Dynasty," Princess Qianyou affirmed.


    "The prisoners from the Great Luo Dynasty? Alright, please follow me, Princess, Heir. This is the first one. His name is..." Lu Jianping quickly introduced each prisoner, disying a thorough understanding of their backgrounds and offenses.


    Inside the prison, the inmates wore white prisoner uniforms, their true essence sealed, rendering them unable to resist, only able to sit idle every day without the ability to cultivate.


    For the first two prisoners, Lu Jianping merely gestured to introduce them, and they bowed immediately. Princess Qianyou only offered a few words offort.


    When they reached the third prisoner''s cell, a many inside, seemingly asleep and snoring.


    "Princess, this man is named Wu Wanli. He offended His Majesty and was imprisoned here. Let me wake him up," Lu Jianping said.


    Wu Wanli? The group was intrigued. Just as expected!


    "Hey, wake up," Lu Jianping called out.


    Wu Wanli, with disheveled hair and a somewhat aged appearance, opened his eyes groggily, seemingly indifferent to life and death.


    "This is Princess Qianyou and Heir Gu Lin from the Great Luo Dynasty, who came specifically to visit you," Lu Jianping said.


    "Heh, trying to deceive me again? And this time, you brought a princess? Tell the Deer King, there''s no way to open the City of Ten Thousand Treasures. Get lost!" Wu Wanli waved his hand dismissively, showing no interest, theny back down to sleep.


    "How dare you!" an official next to Zhong Shan eximed.


    Ignoring the others, Lu Jianping seemed anxious. He quickly approached and kicked Wu Wanli''s right leg, saying, "This time it''s true. This is Princess Qianyou of the Great Luo Dynasty and Heir Gu Lin, who arrived in Sky City not long ago."


    Seeing Lu Jianping''s action, Zhong Shan squinted his eyes, noticing something odd. Lu Jianping was originally on Wu Wanli''s left side, but to alert him, he went around to Wu Wanli''s right side and kicked his right leg?


    Not only Zhong Shan but Princess Qianyou and Mr. Shuijing also noticed. While others didn''t pay attention, Zhong Shan, Princess Qianyou, and Mr. Shuijing were astute individuals.


    Sure enough, after Lu Jianping kicked him, Wu Wanli''s eyes widened, and he immediately knelt down respectfully, bowing to Princess Qianyou.


    "I, Wu Wanli, kneel before Princess Qianyou and Heir Gu Lin," Wu Wanli said, now convinced.


    Wu Wanli, let me ask you this: Are you now a citizen of the Great Luo Dynasty or the Great Yu Empire?" Princess Qianyou inquired.


    "I, Wu Wanli, am born a citizen of the Great Luo Dynasty, and even in death, I shall remain a ghost of the Great Luo Dynasty," Wu Wanli promptly dered.


    "Very well. Since that''s the case, I will request the Great Yu Emperor to release you back to the Great Luo Dynasty," Princess Qianyou solemnly stated.


    "Thank you, Princess. However, the crimes I''vemitted are grave, and the Great Yu Empire may not be so forgiving," Wu Wanli replied, bowing his head to the ground.


    "Fear not. In just over seven months, on the asion of the Great Yu Emperor''s three-thousandth birthday, in the decisive battle against the Great Venerable Dragon Bodhisattva, when we achieve victory, two auspicious events will ur simultaneously. There will be a general amnesty throughout thend. At that time, I will plead for your release," Princess Qianyou assured.


    "Thank you, Princess," Wu Wanli immediately expressed his gratitude, bowing his head deeply.


    "Well, let''s go," Princess Qianyou said, ncing around, preparing to lead the group away.


    "Yes," everyone replied promptly.


    Next, theyforted the remaining three prisoners from the Great Luo Dynasty before Princess Qianyou led the group away��


    At night, in the Great Yu Imperial Prison.


    Inside the cell where Wu Wanli was confined, he sat on the ground with his back against the wall, facing the prison guard who had guided them during the day, Lu Jianping.


    "Master, people from the Great Luo Dynasty havee. Can they persuade His Majesty to release you?" Lu Jianping whispered.


    Master? A prison guard, addressing a prisoner as master?


    "What do you think, Jianping?" Wu Wanli smiled bitterly.


    "I think even if they kill you, His Majesty and the Deer King won''t release you," Lu Jianping said worriedly.


    "You''re right. It''s impossible. However, it won''t stop them from taking me away on the day of the Great Emperor''s birthday celebration," Wu Wanli chuckled.


    "Are they nning to storm the prison?" Lu Jianping asked in astonishment.


    "Heh, you''ve figured it out? Princess Qianyou has already arranged a time with me. When the city guard utters the passphrase ''general amnesty,'' it means ''forceful action.'' Only I understand it. They''re nning to storm the prison," Wu Wanli said with a bitter smile.


    "Wherever Master goes, I''ll follow," Lu Jianping said immediately.


    "But I can''t leave," Wu Wanli smiled bitterly once again.


    "Why?" Lu Jianping asked, surprised.


    "Staying here means death, but returning to the Great Luo Dynasty means a fate worse than death," Wu Wanli said with a pained expression.


    "Master, didn''t you say that the city guard values you greatly, and even the empire wouldn''t dare to kill you?" Lu Jianping asked anxiously.


    "It''s true that they wouldn''t dare to kill me, but everything has itsws and regtions, including thews of the empire. By helping to fortify the city for the Great Yu Empire, I''ve been aiding the enemy and betraying my country. It''s grounds for execution and the destruction of my family. While the Great Yu Empire may provide me with a new identity, my family will undoubtedly suffer the consequences," Wu Wanli sighed.


    "But there''s no evidence now, right? The Great Yu Empire hasn''t killed your family. Why would they do so when you return?" Lu Jianping couldn''t believe it.


    "Because although the Great Yu Empire values me, they cannot overlook treason. There''s no room for mercy in thew of the empire," Wu Wanli said, looking up with a mncholy expression.

 Chapter 209 - 210: Setting up a Deadly Trap

    <h4>Chapter 209: Chapter 210: Setting up a Deadly Trap</h4>


    In the West Garden Pce,


    Inside the main hall, numerous paper documents were spread out.


    After examining them, Zhongshan, Shuijing, Qianyou, Gulin, Ada, and A''er furrowed their brows in thought.


    "These are just the profiles of the prisoners and guards in the imperial prison. Nothing special," Gulin remarked, frowning.


    "Indeed. A''er, repeat the information about Lu Jianping," Princess Qianyou instructed.


    "Yes, Lu Jianping, a citizen of the Great Yu Empire, residing in Qili Town. He used to be idle and profligate, but after entering the Sky City and witnessing the prosperity of the empire, he identally injured one high-ranking official''s son while trying to save another during a dispute. The injured party, bearing a grudge, instigated his father to include Lu Jianping among the aplices of Wu Wanli when searching for his crimes, resulting in both of them being thrown into prison. While in prison, Lu Jianping harbored resentment towards Wu Wanli, often abusing him. His violent methods made other inmates reluctant to intervene. However, the high-ranking official''s son whom Lu Jianping had saved felt grateful and cleared his name while offering him an official position. Surprisingly, Lu Jianping chose to be a prison guard, and he has remained in that position until now," A''er recited.


    "Frequently abused Wu Wanli?" Gulin furrowed his brow.


    "Yes, it''smon knowledge that Wu Wanli suffered severe injuries to his left leg due to his actions," A''er replied.


    "No wonder he kicked Wu Wanli''s right leg earlier," Master Shuijing remarked, shaking his feather fan.


    "Could it have been intentional? Maybe Lu Jianping was deliberately protecting Wu Wanli. To prevent the other inmates from attacking him, he monopolized his ''reign'' in the prison. Even the injury to his leg might have been faked," Princess Qianyou spected, frowning.


    "The probability is quite low. Lu Jianping is from the Great Yu Empire, and it''s unlikely he had any contact with Wu Wanli," Master Shuijing remarked, shaking his feather fan.


    "Hmm," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Zhongshan also believed Master Shuijing''s exnation. The probability was indeed low. However, even with this slim chance, Zhongshan was unwilling to let it go. Perhaps, just perhaps, it could be advantageous to the Great Jue Dynasty. Zhongshan made up his mind, but Princess Qianyou and Master Shuijing decided to let go of this minor doubt. After all, this little doubt was inconsequential. Firstly, Lu Jianping was from the Great Yu Empire, and secondly, there was an exnation for his actions circling around the right leg at the time.


    The attention of everyone turned back to the profiles of other prison guards.


    "Princess," a voice suddenly came from outside the main hall.


    "Come in!" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    At this moment, an official hurriedly entered, holding a small purple invitation in his hand.


    "Princess, just now, a ritual official from the Da Guang Empire delivered an invitation," the official said.


    "Oh? Where is he?" Princess Qianyou gently took the invitation.


    "After delivering the invitation, he left," the official replied.


    "Did you get a clear look at him?" Princess Qianyou asked again, holding the invitation.


    "Yes, I examined him carefully. He was definitely a ritual official from Prince Hanjue''s side. There''s no mistaking it," the official said.


    "Very well. You may leave," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    "Yes," the official immediately responded.


    After the official left, Princess Qianyou opened the invitation.


    Everyone waited silently as Princess Qianyou read it carefully.


    "Qianyou, is this from Prince Hanjue?" Gulin asked.


    "Yes, Prince Hanjue has invited us to meet at the Mist Lake to discuss matters concerning both dynasties," Princess Qianyou said, frowning.


    "Wu Lake?" Master Shuijing frowned.


    "Yes, Wu Lake. It''s in the southwest of the Sky City, a special area. Prince Hanjue mentioned that the matters concerning both dynasties entrusted to us by the Great Guang Emperor are of utmost importance. Therefore, we must find a secluded ce. There are too many eyes in the Sky City, so it must be outside the city. Wu Lake is an ideal location. The environment there is excellent. The meeting at Wu Lake will take ce three days from now," Princess Qianyou said, frowning.


    "The Great Guang Emperor? Could it be that Prince Hanjue is inviting us to discuss dividing the Great Yu Empire?" Master Shuijing furrowed his brow while shaking his feather fan.


    "Then why not send an envoy directly to the Great Luo Empire? Why here?" Zhongshan''s eyes showed a hint of doubt.


    "Perhaps the Great Guang Empire ns to invade shortly after the battle with the Nn Emperor. Reaching an agreement with us would expedite their ns. Additionally, sending envoys into the Great Luo Empire might arouse suspicion from the Great Yu Empire," Princess Qianyou spected, furrowing her brow.


    "Could it be that other empires intentionally lure us away, and then..." Zhongshan paused, thinking.


    As Zhongshan finished speaking, everyone''s pupils contracted. Lure Princess Qianyou away? Then kill her and me the Great Yu Empire?


    Taking a deep breath, Master Shuijing said, "It''s unlikely. Wu Lake is not far from the Sky City. The Great Yu Empire is undoubtedly on high alert near the Sky City, patrolling daily. Setting up an ambush would be difficult. Moreover, to assassinate us, they would need a significant number of powerful individuals. Obviously, the Great Yu Empire wouldn''t tolerate arge gathering of powerful individuals near the Sky City."


    "Exactly. With Master Shuijing, Ada, A''er, and me, it''s almost impossible to keep us here unless they had set up arge formation ambush beforehand. But how could they set it up with the Great Yu Empire patrolling daily? It''s not feasible," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Could it be the people of the Great Yu Empire who set up the ambush?" Zhongshan thought aloud.


    "The people of the Great Yu Empire? They may have the capability, but apart from Yiyi, it''s highly unlikely. Even if Yiyi did, he''s always cautious and wouldn''t take risks in the Sky City," Master Shuijing shook his head while holding his fan.


    "What if..." Zhongshan narrowed his eyes.


    "What if? The likelihood is too small, so small that it''s like two ants being ced at opposite ends of the continent and meeting again by chance," Master Shuijing pondered.


    Zhongshan nodded. Apparently, from the rumors he had heard about Yiyi during this time, this person was extremely cautious in everything he did, in his use of troops and strategies, and had never made any mistakes in his life.


    "Why do you always think of the worst-case scenario? Clearly, this invitation was sent by a ritual official from Prince Hanjue''s side. What else could it be?" Gulin frowned.


    Upon hearing Gulin''s words, Zhongshan and Master Shuijing were left speechless. When it came to matters of life and death, wouldn''t it be better to consider the worst-case scenario first? Shouldn''t they consider all possibilities, not just the favorable ones?


    "Regardless, Master Shuijing will protect Gulin, while Ada, A''er, and I will protect Master Shuijing. Even if there are thousands of troops, we can still safely return. Moreover, this invitation was delivered by someone from Prince Hanjue''s side, so there shouldn''t be any problem with us going," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes," everyone nodded in agreement.


    At the same time, in the Sky City, in the hall where Prince Hanjue was.


    Prince Hanjue stood in the center of the hall, frowning, holding an invitation in his hand, with Left Master and Right Master standing beside him.


    "Princess Qianyou invites me to the Ten Thousand Peach Forest three days from now?" Prince Hanjue frowned.


    "Your Highness, could there be deception in this?" Left Master furrowed his brow.


    "No, at least for now, I am just an ordinary prince in everyone''s eyes. No one would specifically target me," Prince Hanjue said in a deep voice.


    "Your Highness, I have also checked the person who delivered the invitations. Indeed, it was a ritual official under Princess Qianyou," Right Master said.


    "It seems that Princess Qianyou is representing the Great Luo Empire, preparing to seize the Great Yu Empire after the battle with Emperor Nn Piaoxue, and then divide the Great Yu Empire with our Great Guang Empire," Prince Hanjue frowned.


    "Your Highness, what if they mention it during the meeting? Should we agree?" Left Master furrowed his brow.


    "We''ll talk about it after the meeting at the Ten Thousand Peach Forest in three days," Prince Hanjue pondered.


    "Yes," Left Master and Right Master nodded simultaneously.


    At the Grand Commander''s Mansion.


    Yi Yan sat in the pavilion by the pond, holding fish food in his hand, feeding the ornamental fish. Iron Blood General stood behind him.


    "Iron Blood," Yi Yan spoke lightly.


    "At your service," Iron Blood General immediately responded.


    "Both sets of invitations have been delivered?" Yi Yan said indifferently.


    "Yes, they have. We bought off two ritual officials from each side. Both of them were delivering invitations, so it was effortless. Naturally, they agreed. Our people followed them the whole time and saw them deliver the invitations," Iron Blood said with a smile.


    "That''s good," Yi Yan rarely showed a hint of a smile.


    "But will they go?" Iron Blood General furrowed his brow.


    "They will definitely go," Yi Yan narrowed his eyes and threw a handful of fish food into the pond.


    "Yes," Iron Blood General immediately responded.


    "At that time, have someone watch from the city gates. Princess Qianyou will definitely go through the West Gate, and Prince Hanjue will go through the South Gate. Report to me at any time," Yi Yan said in a deep voice.


    "Yes," Iron Blood General admired Yi Yan greatly, regardless of how Yi Yan was able to guess their itinerary---


    Three dayster, in the morning.


    Princess Qianyou walked out of the West Garden Pce with Gulin, Zhongshan, Ada, A''er, and Master Shuijing.


    "Let''s go. Let''s go meet Prince Hanjue," Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Yes, I wonder what Prince Hanjue will say," Gulin smiled.


    A white cloud slowly lifted everyone up, with Zhongshan standing behind Princess Qianyou, his expression calm. However, at this moment, suddenly, a red lotus appeared in the center of Zhongshan''s brow, turning into a deep blue color.


    The sudden change startled Zhongshan. A sign of great cmity?


    Great cmity? Zhongshan widened his eyes, and his feet were also lifted by the white cloud, heading towards the West Gate. Zhongshan instinctively reached out to stop it. Standing behind Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan instinctively ced his hand on her shoulder.


    "What are you doing?" Gulin suddenly widened his eyes.


    At this moment, Zhongshan realized he had lost hisposure. He immediately bowed and said, "I''m sorry, Princess. I just remembered something very important all of a sudden and lost myposure."


    Although Princess Qianyou was standing in front of Zhongshan, she immediately noticed when Zhongshan reached out. She instinctively prepared to dodge, but upon probing with her divine sense, she found that Zhongshan was in a trance. Confused, Zhongshan''s hand had alreadynded on her shoulder.


    Princess Qianyou frowned, and Gulin had already eximed.


    All eyes turned to Zhongshan. Gulin''s eyes seemed to be spewing fire. He had tolerated Zhongshan before because of an agreement with Princess Qianyou. However, this servant was too audacious.

 Chapter 210 - 211: Destruction of the Mountain and Fusion of the Earth

    <h4>Chapter 210: Chapter 211: Destruction of the Mountain and Fusion of the Earth</h4>


    "What''s the matter, sir?" Princess Qianyou frowned, staring at Zhongshan.


    "Sir, do you think you can touch Princess Qianyou''s shoulder? You''re asking for death!" Gu Lin''s eyes were aze with fury.


    "Alright, Gu Lin, the sir didn''t mean any harm," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "No harm? Even unintentional acts are not allowed. Qianyou, you promised me!" Gu Lin immediately erupted in anger. Clearly, Zhongshan''s seemingly innocent gesture had crossed Gu Lin''s bottom line.


    Zhongshan felt slightly ashamed, but his mind was spinning. What did Gu Lin mean by that?


    "I said it was unintentional. Sir was distracted at the time. Mr. Shuijing, Ada, and A''er can all testify," Princess Qianyou said immediately.


    "Yes, Crown Prince, indeed, when Zhongshan reached out just now, I noticed he had a vacant look in his eyes. It should have been unintentional," Mr. Shuijing immediately defended Zhongshan.


    "Indeed, Crown Prince," Ada and A''er said immediately. Obviously, the testimony of three Emperor Realm powerhouses confirmed that Zhongshan''s action was indeed unintentional.


    Gu Lin looked coldly at Zhongshan, as if selecting his prey.


    Zhongshan furrowed his brow slightly, clearly puzzled by Gu Lin''s attitude, but he couldn''t just sit and watch them argue again. He immediately said, "Princess, we cannot go to Misty Lake. Going there means certain death; it''s a deadly trap."


    "You? Don''t make excuses," Gu Lin snapped.


    "Enough, Gu Lin. Let me say it again, my affairs don''t need your interference, and you have no right to interfere," Princess Qianyou frowned angrily.


    "Qianyou." Gu Lin looked at Princess Qianyou, full of resentment.


    His words silenced Gu Lin. Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan again. "Sir, exin yourself."


    "Princess, this is the first time I''ve advised you. There''s hidden danger in this trip. We will face mortal danger if we go. I hope Princess will consider my advice," Zhongshan said firmly.


    "Reason?" Princess Qianyou stared at Zhongshan.


    "I can''t say for sure yet. I just have a feeling this is a trap, there''s something unusual about it, many things are still unknown to us. Please trust me on this," Zhongshan said earnestly.


    "Hahaha, you don''t even know yourself, and you want to deceive us?" Gu Lin snapped. At this moment, Gu Lin''s eyes were bloodshot, as if Zhongshan''s action just now had ignited a raging fire within him.


    Mr. Shuijing frowned at Zhongshan, while Princess Qianyou also stared directly at Zhongshan.


    The scene became extremely tense. Apart from Gu Lin''s angry gaze, everyone else looked at Zhongshan with certainty, even though Zhongshan himself didn''t know where this certainty came from.


    "Alright!" After a moment of silence, Princess Qianyou suddenly said.


    "Thank you, Princess," Zhongshan said immediately.


    But Gu Lin looked at Princess Qianyou with an incredulous expression.


    "However, I hope sir can prove it to me," Princess Qianyou said in a deep voice.


    "Yes, since it''s a trap, someone must be trying to kill us," Zhongshan said.


    Since they had agreed not to go, Princess Qianyou also sighed in relief.


    "Who wants to kill us?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "I don''t know yet, but there''s someone who definitely won''t kill us," Zhongshan thought for a moment.


    "King Julu?" Mr. Shuijing suggested.


    "Yes, King Julu won''t kill us, and it also involves Prince Han Jue. I suspect that besides trying to kill us, there''s definitely another conspiracy behind this operation," Zhongshan affirmed.


    Narrowing her eyes, Princess Qianyou stared at Zhongshan, feeling increasingly uncertain. Zhongshan''s words were bing more and more mysterious. Meanwhile, Mr. Shuijing frowned, not even waving his feather fan anymore, staring at Zhongshan as if trying to see through him.


    "How will sir proceed?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "We''ll pretend to leave the city first, then circle back from another gate. Ada will personally go to King Julu''s mansion with an invitation, inviting him to the Western Garden Pce for a banquet to discuss peace between the two dynasties. A''er will go to Prince Han Jue''s residence to investigate. As for Misty Lake, we absolutely cannot go there," Zhongshan said.


    "Why not go now?" Gu Lin said coldly.


    "To prevent tipping our hand," Zhongshan affirmed.


    "Alright, as sir wishes," Princess Qianyou nodded with a furrowed brow.


    "Thank you for your trust, Princess," Zhongshan said deeply moved.


    "Sir has advised me for the first time, how could I risk losing face? I hope sir won''t disappoint me," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes, Princess," Zhongshan affirmed.


    Under Gu Lin''s resentful gaze, the group slowly flew out of the West Gate on clouds, avoiding the sight of the city gate guards, then circled around the Sky City and quietly returned from the East Gate in groups.


    They returned to the Western Garden Pce.


    "A''da, take this invitation to King Julu''s mansion. Make sure to invite King Julu," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes," A''da immediately responded.


    "A''er, go to Prince Han Jue''s ce, request an audience with him. If Prince Han Jue is there, deliver this letter to him. If he''s not,e back immediately," Princess Qianyou instructed.


    "Yes," A''er immediately responded.


    Then, A''da and A''er left the Western Garden Pce. Meanwhile, Gu Lin continued to re at Zhongshan, as if harboring a deep grudge against him.


    "Gu Lin, if you keep looking at sir like this, don''t follow me anymore," Princess Qianyou said sternly.


    "Humph, you''re still helping him. Qianyou, you are my fianc��e. Only I can touch you. No one else can," Gu Lin angrily shouted.


    "Gu Lin, since the day I became a princess, I have the right to decide my own destiny. Our engagement was annulled that day. I''ve let you follow me all this time, but don''t push it," Princess Qianyou said angrily.


    "I don''t care," Gu Lin snapped.


    Mr. Shuijing dared not intervene, while Zhongshan felt quite frustrated. How did he get caught up in this mess?


    "Crown Prince, I behaved improperly earlier. I promise from now on, I will stay two steps away from the Princess at all times, never getting close," Zhongshan had to say to defuse the Crown Prince''s anger.


    But when Zhongshan said this, he cursed Gu Lin in his heart. Seriously? Just because he touched Princess Qianyou''s shoulder, he''s getting this jealous? I promise you, you''re not that important to me. What''s the point of making such a promise to you?


    Taking a deep breath, Gu Lin looked coldly at Zhongshan and said, "Alright, I hope you remember what you said today."


    Looking at Gu Lin, Zhongshan was speechless. Remember? Sure, I''ll remember.


    "Alright, prepare. From now on, no one in the Western Garden Pce is allowed to leave even half a step," Princess Qianyou nodded. At the same time, she ordered others not to leave the embassy to prevent any leaks.


    At the Grand Marshal''s Mansion, by the pond.


    Yi Yan stood in the pavilion feeding the fish when Tie Xue approached excitedly.


    "Grand Marshal, as expected, Princess Qianyou''s group left through the West Gate, and Prince Han Jue left through the South Gate," General Tie Xue said eagerly.


    "Are you sure?" Yi Yan fed the fish while asking.


    "Absolutely certain. There won''t be any mistakes," General Tie Xue said.


    "Hoo~~~" Yi Yan threw the fish feed in his hand into the pond and let out a long sigh with a faint smile on his face.


    "Grand Marshal?" General Tie Xue looked puzzled.


    "Everything is subject to change. If His Majesty agrees, it would be much better to assassinate them in the city, where everything is within our sight. But now, I have to keep calcting. Any slight mistake could lead to aplete change of ns," Yi Yan sighed.


    "Aplete change of ns?" General Tie Xue frowned.


    "Yes, since they''ve left the city, there shouldn''t be much of a problem. Let''s do our best and leave the rest to fate," Yi Yan said.


    "Yes," although General Tie Xue didn''t quite understand, he immediately responded.


    "Have the soldiers of the Qi Formation been arranged properly?" Yi Yan asked after some thought.


    "Yes, the soldiers of the Qi Formation are hidden above Misty Lake. Once Princess Qianyou and her group arrive, the formation will be activated, and there will be no escape for them," General Tie Xue said with absolute certainty.


    "That''s good, that''s good," Yi Yan sighed deeply in relief.


    "What about Prince Han Jue? Did we intentionally let him go?" General Tie Xue asked again.


    Yi Yan nodded, "Princess Qianyou is going to Misty Lake, and Prince Han Jue is going to the Ten Thousand Peach Forest. Misty Lake and the Ten Thousand Peach Forest are separated only by a mountain. Now, once everything is done, we''ll destroy that mountain, turning it into one ce."


    "Will Prince Han Jue believe that he did it?" General Tie Xue worried.


    "With Princess Qianyou''s ''invitation'' and the fleeting appearance of Princess Qianyou''s projection, whether true or false, Prince Han Jue will definitely think it''s Princess Qianyou. By then, in order to save himself, he will open the entrance of the Earth Yang Qi, and in the attempt to save himself, he will perish along with the ''Princess Qianyou'' group. That will settle the matter," Yi Yan said in a deep voice.


    "Yes, below there is an entrance of the Earth Yang Qi, causing abnormal geothermal activity, shrouded in mist on theke surface, with the spiritual energy of fire steaming. As soon as Princess Qianyou enters Misty Lake, the soldiers of the Qi Formation will open fire and surely ughter them all," General Tie Xue said excitedly.


    "This matter cannot afford any mistakes. You keep an eye on it. Report immediately if there''s anything unusual," Yi Yan instructed.


    "Yes, Grand Marshal," General Tie Xue said excitedly ��


    In the Western Garden Pce, Ada and A''er stood before Princess Qianyou.


    "Princess, Prince Han Jue left early this morning, and no one knows where he went," A''er bowed.


    "Hmm," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    "Princess, King Julu said he''lle to the Western Garden Pce soon," Ada said.


    "Good, prepare the banquet," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    "Yes," a court official immediately stepped forward.


    Then, arge number of servants cleaned up the Western Garden Pce, set up the tables, and waited for the arrival of King Julu.

 Chapter 211 - 212: Doing One鈥檚 Best and Leaving the Rest to Fate

    <h4>Chapter 211: Chapter 212: Doing One��s Best and Leaving the Rest to Fate</h4>


    In the Western Garden Pce, the banquet wasid out.


    Princess Qianyou and Gu Lin sat at the two main seats. Mr. Shuijing, Zhongshan, Ada, and A''er sat to the right, while King Julu took the foremost seat on the left, apanied by his subordinates��men and women alike��seated behind him.


    "Sir, those following King Julu are his most loyal death soldiers. They''ve assassinated numerous high-ranking officials of the Great Luo Dynasty. Their hands are stained with the blood of our leadership," Ada quietly informed Zhongshan.


    Gazing at the expressionless subordinates of King Julu, Zhongshan narrowed his eyes slightly and nodded.


    "Princess, what is the asion for today''s sudden invitation?" King Julu asked with a smile, though his heart was filled with suspicion. When Ada hade earlier, he was in a great hurry, asking King Julu toe to the banquet immediately. It was all too rushed.


    "King Julu, the peace agreement between the Great Luo and Great Yu Dynasties has note easily. However, recently, someone has sought to disrupt this hard-earned peace," Princess Qianyou said, shaking her head.


    Upon hearing this, King Julu''s pupils contracted. He immediately thought of Yi Yan, who had recently proposed war in front of the Emperor. How did the news leak?


    "Who? Who dares to be so bold?" King Julu feigned anger.


    "Prince Han Jue," Princess Qianyou replied bluntly.


    "Uh? Prince Han Jue?" King Julu paused, taken aback. This was unexpected; it wasn''t Yi Yan, but Prince Han Jue?


    Realizing this, King Julu was suddenly rmed. Prince Han Jue, representing the Great Guang Dynasty, wanting to ally with the Great Luo Dynasty against the Great Yu Dynasty?


    "Indeed, this is a letter of invitation from Prince Han Jue," Princess Qianyou said, producing an invitation and handing it to King Julu.


    With a puzzled look, King Julu opened the letter. Although its contents were written cryptically, it was not difficult to discern the intention of forming an alliance with the Great Luo Dynasty.


    Seeing this, King Julu took a deep breath, his eyes filled with anger, while he also nced at Princess Qianyou in surprise.


    "Why are you giving this to me?" King Julu asked. In his mind, Princess Qianyou should be attending the meeting instead.


    "The Great Luo and Great Yu Dynasties are like siblings. How can we be swayed by other empires'' temptations? Although I was initially tempted, under the persistent advice of Mr. Zhongshan, I decided toe clean with you, King Julu. This letter is for your perusal," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "Mr. Zhongshan?" King Julu looked at Zhongshan in surprise, noting the others'' gazes as well.


    Seeing Gu Lin ring coldly at Zhongshan, King Julu''s initial doubts werergely dispelled. What an excellent opportunity for negotiation, and it had been spoiled by Zhongshan. If he were the crown prince, how could he not be furious?


    "King Julu, my princess understands the bigger picture. Our two dynasties have just reconciled; how can we allow other empires to sow discord?" Zhongshan immediately said.


    Zhongshan''s words only made Gu Lin angrier. Already simmering down, his rage red up again at hearing "my princess" from Zhongshan. It felt too possessive.


    What Zhongshan meant was simply a formal way of speaking, as he had always said it before. But at this moment, with Gu Lin''s heightened sensitivity, he perceived it as overly familiar. Gu Lin put down his wine cup and stormed into the inner chamber.


    Gu Lin''s unreasonable action did not go unnoticed by King Julu. Seeing Gu Lin leave in a huff, King Julu thought it was because Gu Linmented the missed opportunity due to Zhongshan''s interference. His trust in the situation deepened.


    Princess Qianyou frowned slightly as she watched Gu Lin leave.


    "King Julu, I apologize for his behavior," Princess Qianyou said, apologizing on Gu Lin''s behalf.


    "Think nothing of it, Princess. You''ve shown great wisdom and virtue. I should be thanking you instead of casting me. But are you certain this invitation was from Prince Han Jue?" King Julu asked, fixing his gaze on Princess Qianyou.


    "King Julu can send someone to investigate. Prince Han Jue is no longer in the city. You can also have someone impersonate us and go to Misty Lake to see what is happening," Princess Qianyou said confidently.


    "Impersonate? That doesn''t seem quite proper!" King Julu showed a hint of interest but seemed reluctant due to formalities.


    "It''s no problem. You can have your subordinates disguise themselves as us and head to Misty Lake. Otherwise, if we dy, Prince Han Jue might leave," Princess Qianyou said with certainty.


    "Very well!" King Julu agreed immediately. Since Princess Qianyou had already suggested it, there was no reason to be coy.


    "All of you, after leaving the city, disguise yourselves as Princess Qianyou and her party and head to Misty Lake. The thick fog there will obscure your faces. Check if Prince Han Jue is waiting there," King Julu ordered his death warriors.


    "Yes," they responded in unison.


    "The princess has prepared appropriate attire for you," Zhongshan said, presenting a set of clothes.


    "Uh?" King Julu was slightly taken aback. The preparations were quite thorough.


    "Take them," King Julu instructed.


    "Yes," the death warriors replied.


    "Change once you''re outside the city to avoid unnecessary trouble," Zhongshan suggested with a smile.


    "Do as he says," King Julumanded.


    "Yes," the death warriors replied and quickly left the Western Garden Pce.


    Now it was a matter of waiting, waiting for the final oue��


    Three hourster, the banquet in the Western Garden Pce had been cleared.


    King Julu, Princess Qianyou, Gu Lin, Mr. Shuijing, Ada, and A''er stood on the floating ind, waiting for the death warriors to return. But so far, none hade back.


    Frowning and growing impatient, King Julu suddenly pointed to another subordinate, "You, go to Misty Lake immediately and find out what''s going on."


    "Yes," the subordinate responded promptly��


    At the Great Guang Dynasty''s embassy floating ind, Prince Han Jue, covered in blood and severely injured, his left arm dangling, flew back with Left and Right Sirs, who were also badly hurt. They looked utterly disheveled, their faces full of resentment.


    "Prince, Prince, what happened?" A Great Guang Dynasty official hurried over, full of concern.


    "Princess Qianyou, you venomous woman! You wanted me dead in the Great Yu Dynasty to stir conflict between Great Yu and Great Guang so that the Great Luo Dynasty could profit. Hmph!" Prince Han Jue spat out coldly.


    "Prince, did Princess Qianyou set up an ambush? Where is she now?" the official asked anxiously.


    "At the entrance to the Peach Blossom Forest, she tried to corner me, wanting me dead. I led them to the volcano and wiped them all out. They''re dead, all of them!" Prince Han Jue snarled.


    "What should we do now?" the official asked worriedly.


    "Quick, fetch King Julu and the Grand Marshal. Tell them the Prince is severely injured and needs them immediately," Left Sir ordered.


    "Yes," the official responded��


    At the Grand Marshal''s residence, Yi Yan was feeding the pond fish, but his eyes were not on the pond. He was restless, waiting for news from General Iron Blood.


    "Thump, thump, thump..."


    A series of hurried footsteps echoed on the wooden floorboards. Yiyan, who was feeding the fish, scattered the remaining fish food into the pond and immediately turned around, spotting Tie Xue General approaching rapidly.


    "Grand Marshal, Grand Marshal," Tie Xue called out urgently.


    "How did it go?" Although Yiyan''s health was failing, he anxiously moved toward Tie Xue General.


    Seeing Yiyan approaching, Tie Xue quickly stepped forward to support him.


    "Grand Marshal, it''s done. Prince Hanjue was severely injured and was shouting ''Qianyou, you viin!'' as he left," Tie Xue General reported with excitement.


    "And the mountain?" Yiyan asked immediately.


    "It exploded. The underground fire energy surged up, causing a volcanic eruption. The fogke is gone; it''s now just a volcano. There''s only one ce left now," Tie Xue General responded enthusiastically.


    "Good. Both locations were handled well. What about Qianyou Princess and her group? What happened to them?" Yiyan continued to inquire.


    "Qianyou Princess and her entourage entered the fogke. Under the cover of thick fog, our troops set up the Yiqi battle formation and, after a fierce battle, killed them all. Not a single one was left alive. Qianyou Princess and her group werepletely annihted," Tie Xue General replied with excitement.


    "Good, good, good. Besides Qianyou Princess, who else was there? Did Mr. Shuijing also die in there?" Yiyan, showing signs of feverish excitement, asked further.


    "Mr. Shuijing? He should be in there as well. It must be the same six people I escorted from Bahuang Cityst time," Tie Xue General thought for a moment and said.


    Hearing this, Yiyan frowned. "What do you mean ''should be''? This can''t have any uncertainties; it must be confirmed. Were they or weren''t they?"


    "Grand Marshal, we stayed far away to avoid being detected. From a distance, the six of them looked exactly like the ones I escortedst time. Their outfits were identical; it can''t be wrong," Tie Xue General responded promptly.


    "The same outfits?" Yiyan suddenly paused, his expression growing tense.


    "Yes, exactly the same. Last time in Bahuang City, they wore those exact outfits. It can''t be wrong," Tie Xue General said.


    "You''re saying that those six people, none of whom changed their outfits, coincidentally wore the exact same clothes as in Bahuang City?" Yiyan''s face showed a hint of tension.


    "Yes," Tie Xue General, sensing something might be amiss but still uncertain, nodded.


    "The same clothes? That''s too coincidental. They changed clothes several times in Sky City. Even if they rotated their outfits, it''s too convenient that they happened to wear the same set as that day?"


    Indeed, it was too convenient. Back when Zhongshan requested each person to hand over a set of clothes, everyone provided an already-worn outfit. It was the same set they wore while traveling, which they assumed they would never wear again. They handed over that set of clothes, not realizing that Yiyan would identify a major w from this seemingly minor detail.


    "Cough... cough... cough..." Yiyan began coughing violently, driven by his worry.


    "Grand Marshal," Tie Xue General quickly stepped forward, concerned.


    "I''ve done everything I could. Let''s just do our best and leave the rest to fate," Yiyan said, calming his cough and offering himself some sce.

 Chapter 212 - 208: The One-Force Battle Formation

    <h4>Chapter 212: Chapter 208: The One-Force Battle Formation</h4>


    "Wu Wanli, the city overseer? Who is he?" Zhongshan asked with a frown.


    "The Unparalleled City you have seen, along with many other cities in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, were built by generations of city overseers leading numerous cultivators. Wu Wanli was one such city overseer," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "A city overseer?" Zhongshan''s expression grew serious. The Unparalleled City was vast and powerful, something Zhongshan had already experienced. A city overseer responsible for the construction of such cities would be a high-ranking official indeed.


    At the same time, a thought crossed Zhongshan''s mind. If he could be a minister of the Great Xian Dynasty and build powerful cities for them, how great would that be? How quickly would the Great Xian Dynasty develop?


    "As for the ''Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror,'' it has been under the stewardship of sessive city overseers, not just in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, but also through the legacies of eight other dynasties. It contains records of the construction processes of ten thousand cities under different celestial and geographical conditions. Some of the cities detailed within are so marvelous that their mysteries remain unsolved to this day. When Wu Wanli was captured, the treasure mirror fell into the hands of the Great Yu Empire. However, only a city overseer from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty can unlock it," Princess Qianyou said.


    "So, has Wu Wanli opened it for the Great Yu Empire?" Zhongshan asked with a frown.


    "No, he hasn''t. That''s why he was imprisoned in their dungeon. We have already received permission from the Deer King to visit the dungeon in a few days," Princess Qianyou replied.


    "Imprisoned? Hmph, even being thrown into the Great Yu Empire''s dungeon doesn''t make up for his crimes," Gulin said with a frown.


    "Huh, what crimes has Wu Wanlimitted?" Zhongshan asked in confusion.


    "Wu Wanli fortified ten of the Great Yu Empire''s major cities, including Sky City. These ten cities have be impregnable, rivaling the fortresses of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "He was coerced at the time, and since he didn''t unlock the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror for the Great Yu Empire, his guilt is somewhat mitigated," Mr. Shui Jing sighed, shaking his feather fan.


    "Wu Wanli is in the dungeon, but is the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror at the Deer King''s mansion?" Zhongshan asked, looking at Princess Qianyou.


    "You have a sharp eye, Mr. Zhongshan," Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Has the princess already discovered the location of the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror?" Mr. Shui Jing asked.


    "Look at this projection that Ah Er has recorded," Princess Qianyou pointed at the projection in front of them.


    The projection showed not only the Deer King''s mansion but also many guards. The projection seemed to be in motion, with patrolling guards constantly moving.


    "The first part here is what Ah Er remembered from our entry into the Deer King''s mansion. Theter part of the projection shows how the guards moved during a disturbance at the mansion," Princess Qianyou said.


    "A disturbance? There was a thief at the Deer King''s mansion?" Gulin eximed in surprise.


    "It must have been someone sent by the princess," Mr. Shui Jing smiled.


    "Qianyou, did you send someone?" Gulin asked in disbelief.


    "Yes, after receiving my signal, someone entered the Deer King''s mansion to steal," Princess Qianyou nodded as she looked at the projection.


    "Were they there to steal the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror? Did they get it?" Gulin asked excitedly.


    "Such a treasure as the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror isn''t something that can be stolen so easily," Princess Qianyou shook her head.


    "That''s really too bad," Gulin said, shaking his head with a sigh.


    Mr. Shui Jing, standing by, also sighed at Gulin''s reaction.


    "The thief''s task was aplished. I never expected him to actually steal the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror," Princess Qianyou said seriously.


    "Huh?" Gulin looked puzzled.


    "I only sent him to help me find out where the Deer King had stored the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror," Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Did you find out?" Gulin asked, surprised.


    "No, but based on Ah Er''s recordings of the Deer King Mansion''s guard movements, I have a rough idea," Princess Qianyou said confidently.


    "Oh?" Gulin expressed skepticism.


    "The Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror cannot be stored in a storage bracelet, so it must be hidden somewhere��somewhere known only to the Deer King. When the thief arrived, the Deer King''s biggest concern was the safety of the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror, so he even left the banquet to check on it. Originally, no one knew its location, but his actions gave away some clues," Princess Qianyou stated confidently.


    At this point, everyone understood why Ah Er had recorded the movements of the guards and turned their attention to the projection.


    "Two gentlemen, where do you think it is?" Princess Qianyou asked, looking at Zhongshan and Mr. Shui Jing with a smile.


    Zhongshan, familiar with the concept of small changes affecting the whole, quickly deduced the location from the guard movements, much like he would analyze fluctuations in themodity market.


    "Where is it?" Gulin immediately looked at Mr. Shui Jing.


    "It''s inside the mountainside of that peak," Mr. Shui Jing pointed to a specific mountain on the projection.


    Zhongshan saw where Mr. Shui Jing was pointing and nodded slightly.


    "Indeed, it is there," Princess Qianyou confirmed with a smile.


    "Will the Deer King have moved it already?" Gulin asked with concern.


    "No, because the location is still known ''only'' to the Deer King. There''s no need to move it, and that ce is surely heavily guarded with numerous mechanisms. The Deer King won''t relocate it," Princess Qianyou said with great certainty.


    "So, should we find another opportunity to steal it?" Gulin suggested with a smile.


    "No, it can''t be stolen. The Deer King will have ced strong guards and powerful formations around it. It''s practically impossible to steal it without alerting anyone; it can only be taken by force," Princess Qianyou asserted.


    "By force? You mean we should storm in and take it? How is that possible? We won''t even be able to get out of Sky City!" Gulin said, his face twitching at the thought of such a brazen act.


    "Yes, by force, but not now," Princess Qianyou replied with a smile.


    "Not now? Then when?" Gulin asked, frowning.


    "On the day of Nn Piaoxue''s battle with the Great Mighty Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva," Princess Qianyou dered with absolute certainty.


    Everyone nodded in agreement. Only on that day, amidst the chaos, could they seize the treasure and make their escape.


    In Sky City, on a floating ind.


    On the ind, there was arge pond with many ornamental fish swimming inside. A wooden pavilion stood in the center of the pond, connected to the shore by a wooden walkway.


    At this moment, the Grand Marshal Yi Yan was sitting in the pavilion. Beside him was a small basin containing some fish food. Yi Yan was tossing the food into the pond, watching the fish scramble to eat.


    Standing nearby was Iron Blood, themander of the First Corps of the Great Yu Empire.


    "Grand Marshal, did His Majesty refuse?" Iron Blood asked respectfully, looking at Yi Yan who was feeding the fish.


    "His Majesty refused," Yi Yan said calmly, without turning around, as he picked up another handful of fish food.


    Iron Blood fell silent for a moment.


    "Iron Blood," Yi Yan said while continuing to feed the fish.


    "Yes, Grand Marshal?" Iron Blood replied immediately, standing at attention.


    "Bring back the soldiers of the ''One-Force Battle Formation''," Yi Yan said in a calm tone.


    "Grand Marshal, are you going to defy His Majesty''s orders and secretly assassinate Princess Qianyou and her entourage?" Iron Blood asked with a worried expression.


    "Are you unwilling?" Yi Yan asked quietly.


    "No, I will never disobey the Grand Marshal''s orders. I''ll carry it out immediately," Iron Blood said promptly, though his face showed signs of concern.


    "Do you have something to say?" Yiyan asked with a light smile.


    Hearing Yiyan''s words, General Tiexue immediately nodded.


    "Yes, Grand Marshal. ording to your usual tactics, you would never kill Princess Qianyou and her entourage in Sky City. Princess Qianyou often travels around; in the past, you would have surely lured them elsewhere, like to the Great Light Empire, and then eliminated them. You would never have done it in Sky City because you, more than anyone, understand the delicate situation of the Great Yu Empire. You would never take such a risk!" General Tiexue said with certainty.


    "Ugh... ugh... ugh... ugh..."


    Hearing General Tiexue''s words, Yiyan started coughing again, a series of violent coughs that caused the fish food in his hand to fall into the pond, making it seem as if even speaking was extremely difficult for him.


    "Grand Marshal!" General Tiexue immediately stepped forward to support Yiyan, his face full of worry.


    Yiyan covered his mouth with a silk handkerchief, and only after the coughing fit subsided did he put away the blood-stained handkerchief. Seeing the blood-stained handkerchief, General Tiexue''s face was filled with concern.


    After the coughing stopped, Yiyan took a deep breath and let out a bitter smile: "I have no choice but to take risks! You saw it yourself. How much longer do you think I can live? A year? Two years? Ten years? Twenty years?"


    "No, Grand Marshal, you will surely live for thousands or even tens of thousands of years, achieving an immortal body and eternal life," General Tiexue said immediately.


    Patting General Tiexue on the shoulder, Yiyan gave a bitter smile: "I know my own body. I don''t have much time left. Thete emperor entrusted Great Yu to me, and I cannot let it follow in my footsteps too soon. If we don''t eliminate Princess Qianyou and her group now, I won''t have time to wait. We must act quickly, very quickly, to destroy the Great Luo Celestial Court. Combining the power of the four great empires, it will definitely be possible. Once the Great Luo Celestial Court is destroyed, the strongest force in the eastern part of the Divine Continent will be an empire. The Great Yu Empire will be secure for a thousand years, and I can rest in peace. Otherwise, once I die, the other empires will surely stir up trouble, and the Great Luo Celestial Court will also be free to act. At that time, Great Yu will be in great danger! I''m going to die anyway, so I''m not afraid to defy the emperor''s orders. As long as we destroy the Great Luo Celestial Court and ensure the Great Yu Empire''s safety for a thousand years, I can face thete emperor with peace of mind."


    Yiyan''s words were filled with tragic determination, and General Tiexue standing beside him was moved to tears.


    "Grand Marshal!" General Tiexue said, deeply saddened by the fact that Yiyan did not have much time left.


    "Go ahead!" Yiyan said, looking at General Tiexue with a slight smile.


    Looking at the Grand Marshal who was willing to risk everything, even defying orders, for the future of the Great Yu Empire, General Tiexue stood up and bowed deeply.


    "Yes, sir," General Tiexue responded simply. After speaking, General Tiexue quickly walked along the wooden path to summon the ''One Qi Battle Formation'' troops.


    Watching General Tiexue''s departing figure, Yiyan smiled slightly and then turned his attention back to the ornamental fish in the pond, picking up the fish food and continuing to feed them.

 Chapter 213: Confrontation

    <h4>Chapter 213: Confrontation</h4>


    Prince Julu''s Mansion.


    "Is Prince Julu not here?" The ceremonial officer from the Daguang Empire asked anxiously.


    "Yes, His Highness has gone to the Xiyuan Pce to attend a banquet hosted by Princess Qianyou," replied the mansion steward.


    "What? Princess Qianyou? Is she in the Xiyuan Pce?" The ceremonial officer was shocked.


    "Yes, Princess Qianyou sent someone to invite His Highness early this morning," the mansion steward said, looking puzzled.


    Observing the mansion steward, the ceremonial officer''s face was a mix of disbelief and fear, as if he had seen a ghost. He feltpelled to see for himself.


    "I will go to the Xiyuan Pce to invite His Highness right away. Sorry for the disturbance," the officer said.


    "It''s no trouble!" the steward replied.


    Grand Marshal''s Residence.


    Iron Blood dashed toward the pavilion at the center of the pond.


    "Grand Marshal, Crown Prince Han Jue has sent someone here. I heard he was ambushed by Princess Qianyou and is severely injured," Iron Blood said, full of excitement.


    Grand Marshal Yi Yan, tossing fish food into the pond, smiled slightly. "Where is he now?"


    "He''s waiting outside, just for you toe," Iron Blood said, brimming with excitement.


    "Since we''ve been invited, we should go and see. Let''s go!" Yi Yan smiled.


    "Yes," Iron Blood replied enthusiastically.


    Xiyuan Pce.


    The ceremonial officer from the Julu Mansion hurried to the square, bowed respectfully to the crowd, and looked around in amazement and fear, as if he had seen something supernatural.


    "Prince Julu, my prince requests your presence," the officer said.


    "Crown Prince Han Jue? He''s back?" Prince Julu asked with a frown.


    "Yes, my prince was ambushed and is now seriously injured. He requests your presence," the officer said.


    This time, the officer dared not mention the ambush by Princess Qianyou.


    "What? Crown Prince Han Jue was ambushed?" Princess Qianyou frowned, then turned to look at Zhong Shan beside her.


    "Yes," the officer immediately replied.


    "By whom?" Princess Qianyou immediately asked.


    Seeing the Princess''s questioning, the officer hesitated and then said, "I do not know."


    Noticing the officer''s expression, everyone frowned. It was clear the officer was withholding information, but they couldn''t force him.


    "Your Highness, how about I apany you to take a look?" Princess Qianyou suggested.


    After ncing at the officer, Prince Julu frowned and then said, "Very well."


    With suspicion in his heart, Prince Julu and the others, including Princess Qianyou, were restless. Crown Prince Han Jue seriously injured? What had happened?


    Gu Lin had already stepped out, but his gaze toward Zhong Shan remained unfriendly.


    The group soared on a cloud toward Crown Prince Han Jue''s residence, shooting through the sky.


    Soon, they arrived at the prince''s residence, also situated on a floating ind.


    On the ind, Grand Marshal Yi Yan had already arrived, apanied by General Iron Blood. Crown Prince Han Jue, now dressed in a fresh outfit and having taken some elixirs, still could not recover from his serious injuries with just a few pills.


    Now, Crown Prince Han Jue was filled with righteous indignation, recounting how Princess Qianyou had ambushed him.


    "The Crown Prince was lucky to escape this time. However, since Princess Qianyou is a princess of the Daluo Heavenly Empire and has now died at the hands of the Crown Prince, the Crown Prince must be prepared," Yi Yan said indifferently.


    Yi Yan''s words seemed tofort Crown Prince Han Jue, but his tone carried a hidden threat, implying that Han Jue must now stand with the Dayu Empire.


    Upon hearing Yi Yan''s words, Crown Prince Han Jue''s expression turned cold as he gazed at Yi Yan.


    At that moment, Prince Julu and his entourage arrived, stepping onto the square on a cloud. Besides Prince Julu, the group included Princess Qianyou, Mr. Shuijing, Gu Lin, Zhong Shan, and two guards named A-Da and A-Er.


    "You''re not dead?" Crown Prince Han Jue sprang up from his chair, looking as if he had seen a ghost.


    Not only Han Jue, but also the advisors Mr. Zuo and Mr. You beside him were wide-eyed in disbelief. General Iron Blood, standing behind Yi Yan, also looked astonished. Only Yi Yan maintained hisposure, showing just a hint of surprise in his narrowed eyes, though even that was a fa?ade. He was adept at handling crises without panic.


    "Crown Prince Han Jue, what do you mean by ''dead''?" Prince Julu stepped forward immediately.


    "Princess Qianyou, you are incredibly fortunate! You lured me to the Ten-Thousand Peach Forest, intending to kill me. Even amidst the inferno, you managed to return unscathed," Han Jue said coldly.


    Hearing Han Jue''s words, Princess Qianyou frowned. Mr. Shuijing also looked at Zhong Shan in surprise. Zhong Shan stood quietly behind Princess Qianyou, saying nothing.


    "What deception? It''s you who deceived us. Today, we''ve been with Prince Julu the whole time. When did we ever try to kill you?" Gu Lin retorted angrily.


    "What? You weren''t at the Ten-Thousand Peach Forest in the hour of Wei?" Han Jue said in disbelief.


    "Of course not. We were at the Xiyuan Pce at that time," Gu Lin argued.


    "That''s impossible. You sent me an invitation, and I saw you there. It couldn''t be wrong. How could you have been at the Xiyuan Pce?" Han Jue said, incredulous.


    "Crown Prince Han Jue, what Gu Lin says is entirely true. At that time, Princess Qianyou, Gu Lin, and everyone else you see here were at a banquet in the Xiyuan Pce. I can vouch for that," Prince Julu said.


    "How can that be? How can that be? Who did I see then?" Han Jue muttered, confused.


    Suddenly, it seemed Han Jue understood something. He broke into a cold sweat and stared wide-eyed at Princess Qianyou. If it had truly been Princess Qianyou before, then he had killed a princess of the Heavenly Empire, worsening rtions between the Daguang Empire and the Heavenly Empire. Could it have been a setup?


    Realizing this, Han Jue was shocked. But a setup? No, Princess Qianyou was right here. What kind of setup was this? Were they trying to kill him? What was going on?


    Han Jue frowned deeply.


    "Crown Prince Han Jue, three days ago, I also received an invitation from you," Princess Qianyou said.


    "From me? How is that possible?" Han Jue said, not believing her.


    Princess Qianyou produced the invitation and handed it to Han Jue. "It was delivered by one of your ceremonial officers."


    Han Jue took it, then pulled out the invitation he had received and handed it to Princess Qianyou. "Delivered by one of your ceremonial officers."


    Both, puzzled, looked at the invitations in their hands. After examining them, they both gasped.


    "Name the officer who delivered it," they said almost simultaneously.


    They quickly summoned the ones who had received the invitations and sent them to identify the respective officers, but those officers had vanished. It was as if they had evaporated.


    "It seems the officers from both empires have been silenced," Yi Yan suddenly said.


    Looking at Yi Yan, everyone nodded in agreement.


    At this moment, a figure flew in from the distance��it was one of Prince Julu''s men sent to investigate the Foggy Lake.


    Bowing to Prince Julu, the man said respectfully, "Your Highness, they are nowhere to be found. I found fragments of their weapons at the site of the Foggy Lake. It seems they were struck down, and they might all be dead."


    "What? They''re dead?" Prince Julu''s eyes widened in shock.


    "Yes, it seems they are all dead," the man said, bowing.


    "What do you mean by ''the original Foggy Lake''?" Princess Qianyou asked sternly.


    "The Earth Yang energy beneath the Foggy Lake has been released. Now, theke is gone, along with the Ten-Thousand Peach Forest nearby, both transformed into a volcanic wastnd," the informant quickly replied.


    "I released it. At that critical moment, I had to draw out the Earth Yang energy to annihte the assants," said Crown Prince Han Jue.


    Hearing this, Princess Qianyou''s pupils contracted. She quickly grasped the gravity of the situation: these people indeed intended to kill her, and Prince Julu''s agents impersonating her had all been killed by Han Jue. Han Jue had even admitted to attempting to kill her.


    What a ruthless scheme, what a vicious n, and how thoroughly devised!


    Princess Qianyou stared at Han Jue, a mix of admiration and frustration shing in her eyes. Mr. Shuijing and the others frowned deeply, while Gu Lin, despite his lingering anger towards Zhong Shan, also showed a hint of surprise.


    Gu Lin''s expression of surprise, directed at Zhong Shan, did not escape Yi Yan''s notice. Yi Yan narrowed his eyes, contemting the situation.


    "Prince Julu, why did you send people to impersonate Princess Qianyou and herpanions?" Yi Yan asked with a frown.


    At this moment, Prince Julu''s face was a mask of anger. Training loyal warriors was no easy task, and losing six of them at once��each one a seasoned elite��was a heavy blow.


    "At the time, Princess Qianyou mentioned something peculiar to me, but I was skeptical. She asked me to send someone to investigate, and Mr. Zhong Shan here also gave me six sets of clothing for my men," Prince Julu exined, frowning.


    "Mr. Zhong Shan?" Yi Yan raised an eyebrow, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "I was following the princess''s orders," Zhong Shan replied immediately.


    Crown Prince Han Jue, observing everyone, was filled with suspicion. This was undoubtedly a conspiracy. As he looked at those around him, a sense of caution began to grow in his heart.


    "Prince Julu, Grand Marshal," Han Jue said quickly.


    "Yes, Crown Prince?" the two men turned their attention to him immediately.


    "I am gravely injured and must return to the Daguang Empire immediately. The gifts for the birthday celebration of Emperor Dayu are in the Western Hall. Could you please convey my apologies to Emperor Dayu when he emerges from seclusion?" Han Jue said urgently.


    "Crown Prince Han Jue, you are just injured. The Dayu Empire will certainly send its best alchemists to treat you. There''s no need to return to Daguang," Prince Julu said quickly.


    "No need," Han Jue refused tly.


    Having discerned the conspiracy against him, Han Jue realized he had to leave immediately to avoid further plots.


    "Sigh, very well," Prince Julu sighed lightly.


    "When do you n to depart, Crown Prince?" Yi Yan inquired.


    "In half an hour," Han Jue replied without hesitation, eager to leave as soon as possible.


    "I will arrange for someone to escort you," Prince Julu offered.


    Looking at Prince Julu, Han Jue pondered for a moment and said, "Very well."


    Then, Han Jue turned to instruct his entourage to prepare for their return.


    "Princess Qianyou, is this Mr. Zhong Shan your advisor?" Yi Yan suddenly asked, looking at Zhong Shan.


    Seeing Yi Yan''s gaze turn towards him, Zhong Shan furrowed his brows slightly, while Princess Qianyou''s expression turned serious as she stared back at Yi Yan. "Yes, he is."


    "It''s a great honor. I haven''t had the chance to properly meet you until now, Mr. Zhong Shan. Would you be willing to visit my humble abode?" Yi Yan addressed Zhong Shan, though his eyes were on Princess Qianyou.


    Princess Qianyou observed Yi Yan carefully. The invitation was solely for Zhong Shan? That was intriguing. However, she smiled slightly and said, "Since Mr. Yi Yan has extended the invitation, Zhong Shan, you should go."


    "Yes," Zhong Shan agreed.


    "Tomorrow, then. I will send General Iron Blood to escort you, Mr. Zhong Shan," Yi Yan said directly.


    "Agreed," Zhong Shan nodded.

 Chapter 214: Observing the World from a Pond

    <h4>Chapter 214: Observing the World from a Pond</h4>


    The next day, at the Grand Marshal''s residence, on a floating ind.


    A pavilion stood at the center of a tranquil pond, with two tables set for a meal,den with fine wine and gourmet dishes. Grand Marshal Yi Yan was at the edge of the pavilion, scattering fish food into the water, which attracted a swarm of ornamental fish eagerlypeting for the morsels.


    Yi Yan watched the pond intently, fully absorbed in the activity of the fish.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan arrived at the edge of the pond, led by General Iron Blood. Pointing to the boardwalk that led to the pavilion, Iron Blood said, "Mr. Zhong Shan, the Grand Marshal has instructed that you may proceed directly to the pavilion. I will wait here for you."


    Zhong Shan nodded and slowly walked along the boardwalk toward the pavilion, while Iron Blood stayed behind to wait.


    As Zhong Shan approached the pavilion, Yi Yan remained focused on the fish, continuing to throw fish food into the pond. The fish scrambled to grab each piece of food he tossed in.


    Upon reaching the pavilion, Zhong Shan looked out at the pond. Each time Yi Yan threw in a piece of fish food, the fish swarmed to consume it.


    "Mr. Zhong Shan, have you discerned anything?" Yi Yan asked, still feeding the fish and speaking without turning around.


    ncing at Yi Yan, Zhong Shan smiled slightly and replied, "Mr. Yi Yan is a man of great talent. How could a mere Zhong Shan see through his thoughts?"


    "This pond represents the entire world. The fish are like the world''s power yers��empires, dynasties, sects. When the water is calm, the fish remain undisturbed. But the moment food is introduced, theypete fiercely for it," Yi Yan said calmly.


    "Observing the world through a pond��your insights are truly admirable, Mr. Yi Yan," Zhong Shan said with a frown as he looked at Yi Yan.


    Yi Yan, having thrown thest of the fish food into the pond, turned to face Zhong Shan and asked, "Mr. Zhong Shan, do you think my analogy holds true?"


    "All the hustle and bustle in the world is driven by profit; thepetition and strife are all for the sake of gain. What you have said is indeed very urate, Mr. Yi Yan. What''s even moremendable is your role as the one casting the bait," Zhong Shan responded with a nod and a smile.


    By this point, Zhong Shan had deduced the origin of the two invitations and naturally thought of Yi Yan as the one who had cast the bait. The two invitations were like fish food, luring Princess Qianyou and Crown Prince Han Jue, two big fish, into a deadly trap. Yi Yan''s strategy was truly formidable.


    "Mr. Zhong Shan, you are indeed extraordinary. Please, take a seat," Yi Yan said, looking at Zhong Shan with a smile.


    "After you, Mr. Yi Yan," Zhong Shan replied.


    The two men each chose a table and sat facing each other.


    "To meet a great talent like you, Mr. Zhong Shan, even in the face of death is a great constion for me. I raise my cup to you," Yi Yan said, lifting a ss of wine and drinking it down in one go.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan quickly responded, "Mr. Yi Yan, you overpraise me. I am but a nameless figure, unworthy of suchpliments. I have long admired you, and I toast to you."


    "Mr. Zhong Shan, you are too modest. You have surely figured out who orchestrated the deadly schemes at Foggy Lake and Ten-Thousand Peach Forest, haven''t you?" Yi Yan asked with a smile, looking at Zhong Shan.


    At Yi Yan''s words, Zhong Shan frowned slightly. Who? Wasn''t it you, Yi Yan? However, even though both men were well aware of the truth, Zhong Shan would never speak it aloud.


    "Well, I am but a fool, unable to discern such things. Perhaps it was one of the other three great empires that are besieging the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty," Zhong Shan said with a lightugh.


    "Regardless of your thoughts, your ability to resolve such a deadly situation is truly impressive. Even I might not have been able to untangle such a web. I have only ever admired two people in my life: thete Emperor Nnda Zhengde of Dayu, and you, Mr. Zhong Shan," Yi Yan said, smiling at Zhong Shan.


    Upon hearing Yi Yan''s words, Zhong Shan''s eyes widened in surprise. He quickly replied, "I dare not ept such high praise. It was entirely Princess Qianyou''s decision not to go to Foggy Lake. You give me too much credit, Mr. Yi Yan."


    "Is that so? What about the Wushuang City Lord election?" Yi Yan asked with a smile. "It was Shui Tianya''s election. Why do you ask, sir?" Zhong Shan replied, pretending to be confused.


    "You don''t need to be modest anymore, Mr. Zhong Shan. Even though I am nearing the end of my life, my eyes are still sharp. The Wushuang City Lord election, sand particle calction, turning water into fire, resolving the Mist Lake''s deadly trap, and recing peach with plum for King Julu''s subordinates, these all prove your talent. I am not as capable as you," Yi Yan said earnestly.


    Seeing Yi Yan''s sincerity, Zhong Shan frowned. What exactly does Yi Yan want?


    "Mr. Yi Yan, except for the sand particle calction and turning water into fire, which I learned from ancient books, I cannot im credit for the others," Zhong Shan replied, frowning slightly.


    "Haha, there''s no need for modesty. I have never misjudged anyone. You entered the Great Luo Heavenly Empire just over two years ago, didn''t you?" Yi Yan said with confidence.


    "That''s right. I was rmended by an elder from the Kaiyang Sect just over two years ago. This is no secret," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Since you are a fifth-rank official of the Great Luo Heavenly Empire, I am here to invite you to join the Great Yu Empire," Yi Yan said seriously.


    "Uh? Mr. Yi Yan, you must be joking," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head with a strange look in his eyes.


    "No, I am not deceiving you. If you are willing to join the Great Yu Empire, I am willing to give up my position as Grand Commander and let you take over as the Grand Commander of the Great Yu Empire''s army," Yi Yan said seriously.


    "Huh!" Zhong Shan quickly stood up, looking at Yi Yan with a face full of surprise.


    "Mr. Yi Yan, please don''t mention this again. I am an official of the Great Luo Heavenly Empire. How can I join the Great Yu? Besides, I am a nobody. There are many people far more capable than I am. Not to mention others, even Princess Qian You and Mr. Shui Jing are a hundred or a thousand times better than me," Zhong Shan said immediately.


    "Please sit down, Mr. Zhong Shan," Yi Yan said with a bitter smile.


    Zhong Shan sat down slowly, looking at Yi Yan with suspicion.


    "A nobody? Haha, although I have only known you for a short time, I believe my judgment is still good. Your talent is no less than mine or Mr. Shui Jing''s. Mr. Shui Jing has been with the Great Luo for many years, and although he is not highly regarded under King Da Xuan, he remains loyal, indicating that he has attachments in the Great Luo. I have nothing to offer him that would attract him. But you are different. You have only been in the Great Luo for two years and are still a fifth-rank official, not even with a decent position. But the position of Grand Commander of the Great Yu Empire''s army, though not a middle-rank position, is far above a mere fifth-rank official. You would have vast resources for cultivation and a position of power second only to the emperor," Yi Yan said again.


    After speaking, Yi Yan stared at Zhong Shan, seemingly waiting for his answer.


    Looking at Yi Yan, Zhong Shan took a deep breath. If it were anyone else, they would certainly ept such an offer. The position of Grand Commander of the Great Yu Empire''s army was highly coveted. Even if the Great Yu Empire were to fall in the future, with this position, one could easily gain a simr position in another empire. But Zhong Shan was different. He had grander ambitions and goals that were unknown to others.


    "Mr. Yi Yan, if the Great Luo Heavenly Empire were to offer you a high position, would you be willing to abandon the Great Yu and join the Great Luo?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "I am different from you. I have been with the Great Yu for hundreds of years and have received great kindness from thete emperor. The current emperor has entrusted the entire army of the Great Yu to me. As the saying goes, a soldier dies for his confidant. With little time left for me, I will not leave the Great Yu," Yi Yan replied.


    "As you said, Mr. Yi Yan, I have also received great kindness from Princess Qian You and will not abandon my duty for small gains," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Hearing this, Yi Yan''s pupils contracted. Small gains? The position of Grand Commander of the Great Yu Empire''s army was considered small gains?


    "How about we stop talking about matters of the two empires today?" Zhong Shan raised his cup and said to Yi Yan.


    "Alright, no more talk of empires," Yi Yan said with a smile, raising his cup.


    The two drank together, each with their own agenda. Yi Yan wanted to bring Zhong Shan into the Great Yu Empire, while Zhong Shan, in turn, wished to draw Yi Yan over to the Great Luo Dynasty. If the Great Luo Dynasty could secure someone like Yi Yan, it would be more valuable than an army of a million soldiers.


    However, based on Yi Yan''s previous statements, it was evident that he valued loyalty and obligations greatly. Even pulling him into the Great Luo Heavenly Empire would be extremely difficult, let alone bringing him into the Great Luo Dynasty, which was practically a pipe dream at the moment. But Zhong Shan wasn''t in a hurry. Failing to win him over now didn''t mean it was impossible; it simply meant the stakes weren''t high enough. Only by raising the stakes and diminishing Yi Yan''s current benefits could they eventually win him over. However, for Yi Yan, ordinary incentives wouldn''t work; it had to be something he valued more, like loyalty and obligation.


    Simrly, it was expected that Yi Yan wouldn''t seed in persuading Zhong Shan this time. It would take time; there''s always a way to resolve any situation.


    "Mr. Yi Yan mentioned he didn''t have much time left. May I ask why?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "I''m at the peak of the Nascent Soul stage, but when I tried to break through, someone sabotaged me, and I was poisoned with ''Soul-Dispersing Powder.'' It''s not much of a secret," Yi Yan sighed, shaking his head.


    "Soul-Dispersing Powder?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Haha, there are things even you don''t know? Soul-Dispersing Powder is imprinted on the soul and can''t be removed unless one reaches the Integration stage and disperses it with their primordial spirit. But once it''s imprinted on the soul, one can never break through again and is destined to suffer, enduring a life of hardship," Yi Yan said with a bitter smile.


    Hearing Yi Yan''s exnation, Zhong Shan frowned slightly. The Integration stage? He still had a Heavenly Yuan Elixir. But of course, Zhong Shan wasn''t foolish enough to bring it up now.


    "Do you know who harmed you when you were trying to break through?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Yi Yan''s pupils contracted upon hearing this. He then took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and gently shook his head.


    Seeing Yi Yan''s reaction, Zhong Shan had a rough guess. It was evident that Yi Yan probably knew who had harmed him but was unwilling to mention it.


    Naturally, Zhong Shan didn''t press the matter and instead switched to a different topic, and the two continued their conversation��


    In the evening, on the square outside the Western Pce, Princess Qian You watched the setting sun, with Zhong Shan standing behind her.


    Zhong Shan was reporting to Princess Qian You.


    "Mr. Zhong Shan, did Yi Yan invite you to be the Grand Commander of the Great Yu Empire?" Princess Qian You suddenly turned to Zhong Shan, surprised.


    "Yes, he did, but I didn''t ept," Zhong Shan replied truthfully.


    Since realizing how formidable Yi Yan was, Zhong Shan hadn''t hidden anything from Princess Qian You. If he didn''t mention it now and Yi Yan brought it upter, it would be troublesome.


    "Thank you, sir," Princess Qian You said solemnly.


    "No need to worry, Princess. Since I have promised to help you, I will naturally fulfill my duty," Zhong Shan said earnestly.

 Chapter 215: The Wisdom of Gu Lin

    <h4>Chapter 215: The Wisdom of Gu Lin</h4>


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s disy of "loyalty," Princess Qian You felt a wave of emotion and gratitude. Treat others sincerely, and they will treat you with sincerity in return. This was something Zhong Shan often said, and it even applied to himself.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Princess Qian You said, "Mr. Zhong Shan, don''t worry too much about the matter with Gu Lin."


    "I''m not worried," Zhong Shan replied.


    "However, Gu Lin has been looking at you with some hostility recently. I''m concerned that he might do something reckless," Princess Qian You sighed, shaking her head.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan said, puzzled.


    "Mr. Zhong Shan, you must be wondering why I''ve been so lenient with Gu Lin," Princess Qian You said with a wry smile.


    "I don''t understand," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    "The Gu Lin you see now isn''t the real Gu Lin," Princess Qian You said.


    "Not the real Gu Lin?" Zhong Shan felt a sense of strangeness. Could this mean Gu Lin was a fake?


    "No, he is the same person, but his wisdom is not what it used to be," Princess Qian You exined.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "Zheng Yi Wang is my father, the Emperor''s son, but he is not my biological father. My mother was the granddaughter of the Emperor''s grandson. Later, she married a general under Zheng Yi Wang, who is my biological father. In a tragic ident, both my parents sacrificed themselves to save Zheng Yi Wang. Out of pity for me, Zheng Yi Wang took me in as his adopted daughter and named me Princess Qian You," Princess Qian You recounted.


    "Really?" Zhong Shan listened attentively.


    "The Great Xuan Wang is the grandson of the Emperor''s grandson. Due to his exceptional talents, he was elevated to Crown Prince andter became the Great Xuan Wang. In this era of extreme differences in lifespan, hierarchy sometimes supersedes titles. Thus, the status of the Great Xuan Wang is equivalent to that of Zheng Yi Wang. However, the four Crown Princes are all formidable leaders in their own right, and they do not get along smoothly. In fact, their rtionship is more of mutual checks and bnces," Princess Qian You exined.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded, still uncertain why Princess Qian You was telling him this.


    "Gu Lin, the heir apparent, is one of the nine sons of the Great Xuan Wang. The Gu Lin you see now is not the same as he used to be. In the past, Gu Lin''s intellect was so high that even I would admit inferiority," Princess Qian You said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "The Great Xuan Wang and Zheng Yi Wang were political rivals. However, when Gu Lin was sixteen, he took a liking to me. Using his special status, he managed to negotiate a marriage contract between the two princes despite their opposition. Do you think it''s easy to establish a marriage contract under such hostile circumstances?" Princess Qian You asked with a smile.


    "Sixteen years old? A marriage contract?" Zhong Shan was astonished. This implied that Gu Lin was extraordinarily intelligent back then.


    "Yes, but Gu Linter suffered a cmity. Otherwise, I would be his fianc��e by now," Princess Qian You said.


    "A cmity? What kind of cmity?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    "A powerful cultivator at the Royal Ultimate Realm had his physical body destroyed and forcibly tried to possess Gu Lin''s body with his primordial spirit. The spirit entered Gu Lin and began a struggle with Gu Lin''s consciousness in his Niwan Pce. Most of Gu Lin''s consciousness entered the Niwan Pce to fight for control, leaving only a small part outside. The Niwan Pce is a sacred ce for the soul. No one dares to force their way in to investigate. We can only wait for Gu Lin''s consciousness to prevail," Princess Qian You said solemnly.


    "Most of his consciousness is in the Niwan Pce, still fighting against that powerful spirit, and only a small part is controlling his external thoughts and actions?" Zhong Shan was shocked.


    "Yes, even with just a small part of his consciousness, Gu Lin can function like a normal person. He''s not crazy or stupid, and we''re waiting for his primary consciousness to win," Princess Qian You confirmed.


    "Win? What if he can''t win?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "If unable to win, then be upied by the stronger. If victorious, not only will the wisdom of old days be restored, but also the consciousness nourished by the essence of the stronger, perhaps even more than before. So although Gu Lin is currently idle, there are still many in the Great Luo Celestial Empire who hold expectations for him, including the emperor, including his father, King Da Xuan," Princess Qian You spoke.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan frowned. It turned out Gu Lin wasn''t a useless person but rather an unpredictable gem of the future.


    "And the princess''s marriage?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Hehe, fianc��e. At that time, Gu Lin''s affair was widely known throughout the court, but Qian You only regarded him as a brother. There''s a rule in the Great Luo Celestial Empire that as long as it''s the crown prince and the princess, they can decide their own partners, regardless of outsiders, even birth fathers. Therefore, I broke off the engagement," Princess Qian You said with a bitter smile.


    "These years, the princess must have suffered a lot," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Indeed, Princess Qian You had no feelings for Gu Lin, but just because Gu Lin encountered such a disaster, everyone looked at Princess Qian You with different eyes. Cancel the engagement? Did she abandon Gu Lin just because he lost his intelligence?


    "Hehe, Mr. Zhong understands Qian You," Princess Qian You smiled bitterly.


    "Princess need not care about others'' opinions," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, why would I care about others'' opinions? I only care about my own views. If Gu Lin hadn''t encountered this disaster, then Qian You could have easily broken off the engagement. But now, feeling guilty towards Gu Lin, and since Gu Lin once helped Qian You, every action towards Gu Lin is handled with care," Princess Qian You said.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded with a furrowed brow, unsure why Princess Qian You had said so much.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Princess Qian You said, "Gu Lin''s hostility towards Mr. is something Qian You didn''t expect, which makes me particrly troubled. If Mr. leaves Gu Lin, it''s difficult for Qian You, abandoning Gu Lin is too difficult, Qian You is troubled, luckily there is something now, I want to ask Mr. to do."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan asked puzzled.


    "Seven monthster, we are about to leave the Sky City. I want to ask Mr. to explore the four corners of the Sky City now, to find us a safe evacuation route. When Mr. returns, Gu Lin should have calmed down. Then Qian You won''t be troubled anymore," Princess Qian You said.


    Looking at Princess Qian You, Zhong Shan sighed inwardly. Princess Qian You was indeed exceptionally smart. His exploration would be more meticulous than the arrangements of the officials, and he could tailor the route ording to the circumstances. Secondly, it would avoid harm from Gu Lin. Thirdly, it would dissipate Gu Lin''s resentment with time. Lastly, and most importantly, it would prevent Yi Yan from contacting him again, avoiding Yi Yan''s persuasion. After all, Yi Yan was too powerful, having a significant advantage in the Sky City.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan agreed.


    "A Da will apany you to ensure Mr.''s safety," Princess Qian You smiled.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded in response��


    Inside the pce, in a side hall.


    Emperor Na Lan Piao Xie sat at the head, King Ju Lu sat on one side, and Yi Yan sat on the other.


    "Yi Yan, why did you do that?" Emperor Na Lan Piao Xie''s eyes narrowed.


    On the side, King Ju Lu sneered. Yi Yan dared to disobey the imperial decree, secretly mobilizing troops to assassinate Princess Qian You and her group. Are you the lord of the universe or is the emperor the lord of the universe?


    Yi Yan remained expressionless, simply saying to Emperor Na Lan Piao Xie, "I am guilty."


    "Don''t you repent?" Emperor Na Lan Piao Xie roared.


    "Although I have disobeyed the imperial decree, I believe what I did was right. I am ountable to thete emperor and to the people of the Great Universe," Yi Yan said indifferently.


    "The most important thing is that Princess Qian You not only did nothing wrong, but also shifted the me to the Great Radiant Dynasty," King Ju Lu said sarcastically from the side. Obviously, losing a few dead soldiers made him very annoyed.


    "If it weren''t for you, King Ju Lu, obstructing, Your Majesty would have listened to my advice. With the assassination in the Sky City, what would prevent us from achieving our goals?" Yi Yan red at King Ju Lu angrily.


    "Yi Yan!" Emperor Na Lan Piao Xie roared.


    Turning his head to Emperor Na Lan Piao Xie, Yi Yan felt a surge of anger at the emperor''s furious gaze.


    "Cough~~~~Cough~~~~Cough~~~~Cough~~~~"


    In the midst of his anger, Yi Yan''s body was stimted again, and he began to cough violently. This time the coughing was very difficult, covering his mouth with a brocade handkerchief, he spat out a mouthful of blood.


    Seeing the blood-stained handkerchief, Emperor Na Lan Piao Xie sighed lightly, and his previous anger dissipated in an instant. But King Ju Lu on the opposite side sneered.


    "Alright, Crown Prince Han Jue has left. Yi Yan, do you have any new ns?" Emperor Na Lan Piao Xie sighed.


    "Yes," Yi Yan nodded.


    "Well, my seclusion is bing more important now. In the future, the three of us will meet every five days, changing to every fifteen days," Emperor Na Lan Piao Xie said.


    "Yes," both of them immediately responded��


    Yi Yan returned to the Grand Marshal''s Mansion, his face still showing traces of worry.


    "Grand Marshal," Iron Blood called from a distance.


    "Speak inside," Yi Yan said lightly.


    "Yes," Iron Blood immediately responded, then quickly supported Yi Yan towards the Grand Marshal''s Mansion.


    Inside, when they reached the center pavilion of the pond, Iron Blood said, "Grand Marshal, you wanted me to monitor Zhong Shan. Early this morning, Zhong Shan left the city with A Da."


    "What? Left the city?" Yi Yan frowned.


    "Yes, I''ve already sent someone to follow them," General Iron Blood said.


    "This Princess Qian You indeed arouses suspicion," Yi Yan frowned, a hint of worry shing in his eyes.


    "Grand Marshal, suspicion about what?" General Iron Blood asked.


    "Don''t worry about it. You keep an eye on Zhong Shan and A Da, see where they go and what route they take," Yi Yan pondered.


    "Yes," General Iron Blood immediately responded.


    "Also, where they stop and who they talk to, you record it all and report back to me at any time," Yi Yan ordered.


    "Yes," General Iron Blood obeyed.

 Chapter 216: Before the Lu Residence

    <h4>Chapter 216: Before the Lu Residence</h4>


    Ten dayster, outside the Sky City.


    In the vast mountains, there stood a solitary ck stone mountain, and Zhong Shan and A Da were currently standing at the peak.


    A Da stood behind Zhong Shan, while Zhong Shan gazed into the distance, taking in the scenery of the distant mountains and roads.


    "Master, those people are still following us," A Da said worriedly.


    "Let them follow. It''s not easy for them either," Zhong Shan smiled faintly.


    "But our journey has been discovered. What secrets do we have left for retreat?" A Da worriedly asked.


    "It doesn''t matter. The path is in my heart. They won''t guess our destination, well, maybe one person can. But it doesn''t matter; I''ll just create more routes for him to know," Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "Yes," A Da immediately responded.


    Fifteen dayster. Grand Marshal''s Mansion.


    In a projection of mountains and rivers, Yi Yan and Iron Blood stood by.


    "Grand Marshal, Zhong Shan and his group have stayed in these ces. They shouldn''t have discovered our people," Iron Blood pointed at the projection seriously.


    "Hehe, stayed in these ces? Not discovered? They discovered it long ago," Yi Yan showed a bitter smile.


    "How is that possible?" Iron Blood didn''t believe.


    "Let it go. Stop following them. Withdraw," Yi Yan shook his head and sighed.


    "Yes," Iron Blood immediately responded��


    Two monthster.


    "Master, ten thousand miles to the west is Qili Town, eight thousand miles to the southeast is..." A Da exined while pointing at the map.


    When he mentioned Qili Town, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    Qili Town? Isn''t that Lu Jianping''s hometown? The jailer he met in the Sky Prisonst time? The Lu Jianping he had some suspicions about?


    "Let''s go, to Qili Town," Zhong Shan said directly.


    "Yes," A Da immediately nodded. Guiding the white cloud, they shot off towards the west.


    Qili Town was not as grand as the Sky City. Internally, it resembled an ordinary human city of the Great Jin Dynasty, with town walls, but these walls were only tens of meters high, enough to block some fierce beasts and low-level monsters.


    There were many mortals in the town, as well as cultivators, most of whom existed in the form of aristocratic families. The highest cultivation level was only around the Golden Core stage.


    For Zhong Shan and A Da to enter the town was to be the presence of peak experts.


    At the town gate, Zhong Shan and A Da descended from the clouds. The guards at the town gate didn''t even dare to stop them.


    Flying on clouds? Those must be at least Yuanying stage cultivators. They looked at the two neers with iparable admiration.


    Ignoring the gazes of others, Zhong Shan and A Da walked into the town.


    Zhong Shan was looking for Lu Jianping''s family, not to show off.


    Once in the town, Zhong Shan inquired a bit and quickly found out where Lu Jianping''s family was.


    Sure enough, it was in Qili Town, and it was a newly rising aristocratic family.


    Forty years ago, the Lu family was nothing special, an ordinary mortal family living at the bottom. Unexpectedly, forty years ago, Lu Jianping emerged from the Lu family, bringing cultivation techniques back to the family. The entire family embarked on the path of cultivation because of Lu Jianping.


    However, in Qili Town, they were still considered a small aristocratic family. Ten years ago, Lu Jianping was about to marry, but he suddenly abandoned his fianc��e and the entire family disappeared.


    Some said Lu Jianping died, some said he went to the Sky City and ascended to be an immortal, but the highest cultivation level of the Lu family was only Foundation Establishment. Who would dare to cross the endless river to the mythical Sky City?


    Zhong Shan simply used a spirit stone to smoke the eyes of a low-level cultivator, who then nodded and bowed, leading the way for Zhong Shan.


    "Elder, you''vee at the right time. The Zhao family has announced that they will raid the Lu family today," the guide said, his words spitting out like foam.


    "The Zhao family? Raiding the Lu family?" Zhong Shan asked with a hint of confusion as they walked.


    "Yes, the Zhao family is the first aristocratic family in Qili Town, aside from the town mayor. They say the Zhao family has three or four Qi Condensation stage powerhouses. Young Master Zhao issued a statement that they will raid Lu Jianping''s fianc��e today," the guide exined.


    "Raid Lu Jianping''s fianc��e?" Zhong Shan questioned.


    "Yes, Lu Jianping has really good luck. He disappeared ten years ago, but his fianc��e is still waiting for him without any regrets. She even moved into the Lu family and considered herself a daughter-inw of the Lu family. It''s just a pity for her beauty. She waits alone in an empty room every day. Matchmakers are trying to persuade her to remarry. Even the Lu family has lost hope for Lu Jianping''s return, but for his fianc��e, they will always stand by her. If she wants to remarry, they won''t stop her. But if she doesn''t want to, she will forever be a member of the Lu family, and the Lu family will always protect her," the guide said.


    "Oh? Who said that?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "Master of the Lu family, Old Master Lu," the guide said.


    "Old Master Lu?" Zhong Shan was surprised. This Old Master Lu seemed quite heroic.


    "Old Master Lu is highly respected in town and holds great authority in the Lu family. Unfortunately, this time he''s been targeted by Young Master Zhao of the Zhao family. Young Master Zhao is a tyrant in Qili Town and extremely lecherous. He would snatch any woman he fancied. But it''s said that Young Master Zhao also has excellent aptitude, so the whole Zhao family dotes on him. Today is the cmity for the Lu family," the guide sighed.


    Zhong Shan nodded, being led all the way to arge mansion west of the city.


    "Elder, this is it," the guide said.


    "Alright, you can go," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Yes," the man immediately responded. Although he wanted to gain some benefits, he knew better than to linger in front of the two powerful individuals.


    Above the mansion were tworge characters: "Lu Residence."


    Zhong Shan listened to the guide''s words just now and could deduce some things. Bringing back cultivation techniques forty years ago, mysterious disappearance ten years ago. No news during the past decade? It was unusual. Even if he became a jailer in the Sky City, he could still take leave. Unless there was something important in the Sky City that kept him from leaving for ten years?


    Outside the Lu Residence, arge crowd had already gathered.


    At the gate of the Lu Residence, a white-haired old man stood at the forefront, followed by more than twenty angry-looking people, each holding swords and knives, ready to fight at the old man''smand.


    Beside the old man was a beautiful woman, her brows furrowed with worry.


    The old man was obviously the master of the Lu family. Outside the gate, there was also arge group of people. Half of them were dressed in ck, holding knives and swords, while the other half were wearing red clothes, carrying a bridal sedan chair and ying musical instruments.


    At the forefront was an extremely handsome young man, dressed in red with arge red flower pinned to his chest, dressed as the groom. Young Master Zhao.


    Seeing this scene, Zhong Shan''s heart stirred. Standing in a corner, he took out a memory crystal and slowly recorded everything. A faint smile appeared on his lips. Truly fortunate. It''s better to be lucky than to be early.


    "Old Master Lu, I respect you, but today I''m just taking the bride away. Let us pass, I won''t make things difficult for you," Young Master Zhao said solemnly.


    "Young Master Zhao, Du Na is my Lu family''s daughter-inw. She is a member of my Lu family. What reason do you have foring here today? Are you nning to vite thews of Qili Town?" Old Master Lu said coldly.


    In the town of Qili, the Zhao family stood as the unchallenged authority. "Old Man Lu, I see you''re getting on in years. It can''t be easy maintaining a peak cultivation level to keep a family in check. Don''t push your luck. Do you believe that I won''t ughter your entire Lu family right here and now?" Young Master Zhao''s voice was icy cold.


    "Would you dare?" Old Man Lu''s eyes widened in defiance.


    "Humph, what wouldn''t I dare? Aren''t you just relying on Lu Jianping? He''s been missing for ten years, likely devoured by beasts in the mountains by now. Otherwise, why hasn''t he returned? And even if he does, what could he possibly do? At most, he''s in the Golden Core stage. Do you think the Zhao family would fear him? Now that he''s gone, your Lu family only has five innate cultivators. The people I brought alone have ten. Does your insignificant Lu family still wish to oppose me? And Duna is still a maiden. How is she your Lu family''s daughter-inw?" Young Master Zhao sneered.


    "Humph, once someone enters my Lu family''s gate, they be part of my family. The Lu family has never feared death��not in the past, not now, and certainly not in the future. If you want to take anyone from my family, you''ll have to step over our corpses," Old Man Lu''s eyes zed with a fierce determination.


    "Do you really wish to die?" Young Master Zhao''s eyes glinted with malice.


    "It''s not about wanting to die. The Lu family has flourished for decades, all thanks to Jianping. Now that he''s not here, if Duna is taken by you, how could we face him upon his return? Come then! The Lu family fears no death. Today, I want to see just howwless you can be. Justice will prevail, and even if I be a vengeful spirit after death, I will see you face retribution," Old Man Lu''s voice was resolute and unwavering.


    Though Old Man Lu''s cultivation wasn''t the highest, his dignity and ferocity were intimidating. Even the seemingly invincible Young Master Zhao felt a flicker of fear under his imposing presence. The Lu family members, clutching their swords, were filled with a reckless valor, ready to face death head-on, with only a few showing fear.


    Regaining hisposure, Young Master Zhao''s face flushed with anger and humiliation. "Kill them all! Leave no one alive!"


    Just as the men behind Young Master Zhao were about to attack, a voice called out, "Wait a moment."


    It was Duna, standing behind Old Man Lu. Her plea drew everyone''s attention.


    "What is it? Is Miss Duna willing to follow me?" Young Master Zhao''s face twisted into a lecherous grin.


    "Don''t worry, daughter-inw. The Lu family fears no death. We will hold them off, and I have already made arrangements for the family. You must leave at once," Old Man Lu spoke with urgency and solemnity.


    Tears welled up in Duna''s eyes. She looked at Old Man Lu and bowed deeply. "Father, I am an unfortunate person. Before my wedding, Jianping suddenly disappeared, his fate unknown. And now I have brought cmity upon the Lu family. I am unworthy of the Lu family and Jianping. I cannot watch the Lu family perish because of me. But in my heart, I am already Jianping''s wife. In life, I belong to him; in death, I will be his ghost. Forgive me, father. Tell Jianping not to mourn for me, but to live well."


    Old Man Lu, sensing that something was amiss, reached out to stop her, but it was toote. Duna''s delicate sword was already at her throat. There was no time for anyone to intervene, and the speed of her action made it impossible to halt, even if she herself wanted to.

 Chapter 217: Reclaiming the Lu Family

    <h4>Chapter 217: Reiming the Lu Family</h4>


    Old Master Lu was toote, and Young Master Zhao was toote as well. But that didn''t mean everyone was toote��at least Zhong Shan wasn''t. As the Memory Crystal recorded this moment, Zhong Shan''s heart surged with excitement. These people were simply delightful, and this was precisely the kind of content he needed.


    When Duna uttered those tragic words, Zhong Shan already sensed her next move. He picked up a stone and flicked it toward the distance.


    "Doooonnnngggggg..."


    The stone''s force instantly shattered the long sword.


    Duna was saved, and everyone disyed expressions of astonishment. What happened? Who saved Duna? In an instant, all eyes turned to the two figures who had suddenly appeared on the outskirts: Zhong Shan and A Da.


    "A Da, continue recording," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Yes," A Da responded, taking the Memory Crystal.


    Zhong Shan walked forward slowly with A Da following, recording the scene behind him. It was a very strange sight, but the others didn''t recognize the device in A Da''s hand.


    "Who are you?" Young Master Zhao shouted angrily. The group of ck-d men behind him grabbed their weapons, ready to rush forward.


    Zhong Shan smiled coldly and ignored them, walking straight toward the Lu residence.


    Old Master Lu looked at Zhong Shan with a mixture of surprise andposure, while Duna stood behind him.


    "I''m talking to you! Who are you?" Young Master Zhao''s expression turned more sinister.


    Zhong Shan still ignored him.


    "Kill him!" Young Master Zhao roared.


    Turning his head, Zhong Shan red at Young Master Zhao and with a flip of his hand, shot a palm strike directly at him.


    "Boooommmmmm..."


    A palm-shaped qi st sent Young Master Zhao flying over twenty meters. Mid-air, he spat out a mouthful of blood, his chest charred ck and his bones shattered. His life was effectively over.


    Zhong Shan''s one move had left everyone in awe. They all stared in shock at Zhong Shan. One palm strike, just one, producing qi energy?


    The hired thugs of Young Master Zhao suddenly froze in their tracks. None dared to advance.


    One palm strike��that was a skill at the level of the Zhao family''s patriarch. Who would dare to charge forward now? Especially when the opponent seemed to strike so effortlessly.


    Everyone was stunned. Where had this experte from?


    With his Golden Core fourth stage cultivation, dealing with these mere postnatal and innate cultivators was as easy as flipping his hand.


    Looking at the lifeless Young Master Zhao, who was still spewing blood, Zhong Shan said, "Heaven''s justice is clear; evil will be repaid. It''s not that it hasn''t been repaid, but the time hasn''te yet."


    Young Master Zhao, just helped up, was so enraged by Zhong Shan''s words that he spat out another mouthful of blood. His subordinates were filled with uncertainty, not knowing whether to charge forward or to quickly escape.


    "Get lost!" Zhong Shan''s eyes red fiercely.


    Terrified, everyone picked up the severely injured Young Master Zhao and fled. They even abandoned the flower pnquin. In a matter of moments, they were gone.


    "Thank you, senior, for saving our lives," Old Master Lu said immediately.


    By then, Zhong Shan had already signaled A Da to stop recording. It was enough. With what had been recorded, Zhong Shan could aplish a lot.


    Turning to look at the Lu family members, aside from Old Master Lu and Duna, everyone else was gazing at him with eyes full of admiration.


    Old Master Lu was uncertain of Zhong Shan''s intentions, his mind swirling with both doubt and hope.


    "Are you at the peak of the Houtian stage?" Zhong Shan asked softly, looking at Old Master Lu.


    "Yes," Old Master Lu replied immediately.


    "Take this," Zhong Shan said, flipping his hand to reveal a pill.


    "A Barrier-Breaking Pill?" Old Master Lu eximed with joy.


    Seeing the pill in Zhong Shan''s hand, Old Master Lu quickly grabbed it. The calm and dignified demeanor he had disyed earlier vanished. The resolve to sacrifice himself for the greater good now seemed like a distant memory. He didn''t care whether Zhong Shan was friend or foe, and without hesitation, he swallowed the pill and sat cross-legged.


    Observing Old Master Lu''s actions, Zhong Shan smiled faintly. Old Master Lu reminded him of his younger self. The Barrier-Breaking Pill had been his obsession back then, a demon in his heart. When he was stuck in his cultivation, unable to progress, he was willing to risk everything. But now, with the pill, he was driven to madness in his desperation to break through.


    Old Master Lu was certainly in a simr state. His hair had already turned white, and like Zhong Shan back in the day, he was nearing the end of his life.


    The Lu family members waited patiently. After an hour, Old Master Lu''s hair had turned ck again, and he looked much younger, appearing to be around forty years old.


    "Thank you, senior," Old Master Lu said respectfully, standing up and bowing deeply to Zhong Shan.


    "In Sky City, I once had the pleasure of meeting Lu Jianping. I didn''t expect to encounter his family here in Qili Town," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Senior, you''ve seen Jianping? Is he really in Sky City?" Duna stepped forward excitedly, her eyes full of hope, and the other Lu family members shared her eager expression.


    "Senior, pleasee inside," Old Master Lu, ever the gracious host, quickly said.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded and followed Old Master Lu inside, with A Da trailing behind.


    Although the Lu family members were eager for news about Lu Jianping, Old Master Lu''s longstanding authority kept them from bing unruly.


    In the Lu family''s main hall, servants quickly prepared tea for Zhong Shan. Meanwhile, amotion could be heard from outside once again.


    "A Da, go and deal with it," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes," A Da responded immediately, following the Lu family members towards the entrance.


    The Zhao family hade to avenge Young Master Zhao.


    In the hall, only Zhong Shan and Old Master Lu remained.


    "Dare I ask, senior, is Lu Jianping in Sky City?" Old Master Lu inquired.


    "Indeed. But I fear it won''t be long before he''s in danger," Zhong Shan replied thoughtfully.


    "Danger? Why?" Old Master Lu''s previous excitement instantly turned into worry.


    "Why did Lu Jianping suddenly acquire cultivation methods? Why has he been out of contact for so many years? And where did your own cultivation techniquese from?" Zhong Shan asked, his gaze fixed on Old Master Lu.


    "I... I don''t know," Old Master Lu stammered, shaking his head as he met Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    Zhong Shan sighed softly. "The person who gave him the techniques is about to be wiped out, and if Lu Jianping went to support them, he might not escape unscathed."


    Zhong Shan was using his assumptions to fish for information.


    "That can''t be. Jianping won''t be harmed," Old Master Lu immediately shook his head in denial.


    "Heh, if I can see it, do you think others can''t? Once the me is cast, not only will Lu Jianping be in trouble in Sky City, but his family here will also be obliterated��exterminated for collective guilt," Zhong Shan said, his expression suddenly grave.


    Old Master Lu struggled internally, his mind caught in a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. Finally, he took a deep breath and spoke with resolve, "Senior, I must apologize for not being entirely truthful earlier. Please forgive me. Since you already seem to know a great deal, it would be improper for me to conceal anything further. Ten years ago, when Jianping left, he mentioned that he was going to assist his master. He hasn''t sent any word since then. He is either dead or unable to return."


    Hearing Old Master Lu''s confession, Zhong Shan''s interest piqued. "Master? Helping his master?" It seemed his earlier spection was correct. Wu Wanli was likely Lu Jianping''s master. As the overseer of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty, Wu Wanli must have imparted his teachings to Lu Jianping. Even if Wu Wanli couldn''t be persuaded to join, Lu Jianping would still be valuable for the Daxia Empire''s cause.


    "Senior, given your extensive knowledge, you must be a person of considerable standing. I implore you to help Jianping," Old Master Lu pleaded, rising to bow deeply.


    Zhong Shan gently helped him up, an idea forming in his mind. "You don''t need to bow. If I didn''t intend to help Lu Jianping, I wouldn''t havee here."


    "Thank you, senior," Old Master Lu said gratefully.


    "Let me think for a moment," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Of course," Old Master Lu stepped aside respectfully, waiting patiently.


    Zhong Shan analyzed the situation, weighing his options carefully. After a while, he asked, "Do you trust me?"


    Old Master Lu hesitated but quickly nodded. "If it weren''t for you, senior, the Lu family would already be in ruins. Whatever you ask, I will do my utmost to fulfill."


    "How many people are in your Lu family?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Counting Duna, there are eighty-three of us," Old Master Lu answered.


    "Would you be willing to abandon your home and leave this ce?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Leave?" Old Master Lu was taken aback.


    "Yes. I can rescue Lu Jianping, but if your family remains here, he will not be willing to leave because of you all," Zhong Shan exined.


    Reflecting on how Lu Jianping had risked everything to help his master withoutint for ten years, Zhong Shan was certain that such a person, one who valued loyalty and gratitude, would not abandon his family.


    After a moment of contemtion, Old Master Lu nodded firmly, "We can do that."


    "Good. I will give you four months. Here are some pills to help you. Use this time to break through and aim for everyone to reach the Xiantian stage of cultivation," Zhong Shan said,ying out a row of pills on the table.


    "This... this..." Old Master Lu was stunned, his eyes wide as he looked at the unexpected array of pill bottles.


    With a slight smile, Zhong Shan produced two Spirit Orbs and a half-height Xu Mi Stone, saying, "You should know how to use a storage bracelet, right?"


    "Yes," Old Master Lu replied, his face glowing with excitement.


    "During these four months, gather supplies sufficient for a year or more, enough for your entire family''s needs. When Lu Jianping returns, you will all leave with me," Zhong Shan asserted.


    "Understood, senior," Old Master Lu replied, almost dizzy with the good fortune that had befallen them.


    Xu Mi Stone? Storage bracelets? These were treasures only possessed by the Zhao family patriarch!


    "Keep this n a secret. No one outside the family should know," Zhong Shan warned sternly.


    "Yes," Old Master Lu responded enthusiastically.


    "Four months from today, head to the northern mountains," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "The northern mountains? Senior, the mountains are teeming with fierce beasts. Even if most of us reach the Xiantian stage, we might still..." Old Master Lu voiced his concerns.


    "At that time, wolves wille to guide you. Follow them," Zhong Shan said.


    "Wolves?" Old Master Lu was bewildered.


    "Don''t worry, they won''t harm you. They will protect you. Just follow them," Zhong Shan assured him.


    "Understood," Old Master Lu nodded.


    Seeing so many precious pills, Old Master Lu couldn''t imagine any reason why Zhong Shan would wish them harm.


    In the following days, Zhong Shan took decisive action in Qili Town. With a single gesture, he eradicated the Zhao family, removing all threats to the Lu family and ensuring their safety for the next five months. During his patrols with A Da, he sent A Da away briefly and summoned arge wolf from the nearby mountains. He negotiated with the wolf, offering it some pills in exchange for its help in summoning other wolves. The wolves were to escort the Lu family to a distant valley specified by Zhong Shan. Only then did Zhong Shan continue his journey with A Da.


    With a month left until the Great Yu Emperor''s birthday celebration, Zhong Shan returned to Sky City.

 Chapter 218: Heart of the Strong

    <h4>Chapter 218: Heart of the Strong</h4>


    In the Sky City, within the Western Garden Pce.


    Zhongshan, Qianyou, Shuijing, Ada, A''er, and Gulin gathered once again. After over six months of investigation, Zhongshan''s route had been mostly nned out, and they had obtained some topographic images, which Zhongshan was now exining to everyone.


    Although six months had passed, Gulin''s resentment towards Zhongshan had faded somewhat, but there was still a hint of coldness in his eyes.


    After the exnation, Princess Qianyou suddenly spoke, "Master, do you know that three days ago, Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva has arrived?"


    "Arrived?" Zhongshan puzzled.


    "Yes, he is currently resting in a serene temple to the east of the Sky City, recuperating and adjusting his own aura to its peak. In a month, he will officially battle Emperor Nn." Princess Qianyou said.


    "Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva?" Zhongshan frowned, contemting.


    "The one apanying him is the Enlightened Arhat we encountered at the Phantom Springst time," Mr. Shuijing said.


    "Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva, isn''t he from the Holy Land of Pure Bliss?" Zhongshan asked with a furrowed brow once again.


    "Of course, I told youst time," Gulin sneered beside him.


    Zhongshan paid it no mind, and neither did the others.


    "Holy Land of Pure Bliss? It seems like the next month might not be peaceful," Zhongshan sighed lightly.


    "Not peaceful? What do you mean?" Gulin frowned.


    "Your Highness, when Crown Prince Daguang Juetai was still alive, there were conspiracies against us. Now that there''s a holynd involved, won''t it provoke even more conspiracies?" Mr. Shuijing exined.


    "What? Someone wants to harm us?" Gulin eximed immediately.


    "Yes," Mr. Shuijing said with concern.


    "Who? What should we do?" Gulin immediately became worried.


    Gulin still remembered the situation at Wuhu back then, it was a total massacre. Even though they found a scapegoatter, a slight misstep could lead to being nowhere to be buried.


    "Prepare to face difficulties, but remain unmoved like a mountain. Do not covet or resent, focus on ourselves, and dissolve external forces until a monthter when we leave the Sky City," Mr. Shuijing said.


    Half a monthter, there was still half a month left before Nn Piaoxue''s bloody grand birthday celebration.


    In the imperial pce, in a secluded hall, Nn Piaoxue, the King of Julu, and Yi Yan met once again.


    "Your Majesty, Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva has been here for almost twenty days," the King of Julu smiled.


    "I know, I have already sensed his aura. Although separated by a city, I can feel his aura increasing day by day. In half a month, it will surely reach its peak, and it will be the battle I have longed for," Nn Piaoxue said, slightly excited.


    "Your Majesty, I have a n that can ensure the prosperity of the empire for a thousand years and assist Your Majesty in achieving victory," Yi Yan once again advised.


    "Oh?" Nn Piaoxue was surprised. The King of Julu also frowned and looked at Yi Yan.


    "Only by seizing the opportunity while Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva''s momentum has not yet reached its peak, can I lead and create conflicts between Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva and Princess Qianyou and her group. Then, by framing Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva for the murder of Princess Qianyou and her group, chaos will ensue in Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva''s aura. Your Majesty will surely achieve great victory. Furthermore, in the eyes of outsiders, Princess Qianyou and her group will have died at the hands of Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva, causing conflict between the Great Luo Dynasty and the Pure Bliss Land. When the four great empires besiege the Great Luo Dynasty, the Pure Bliss Land will surely take advantage of the situation to attack, and then I will manipte the situation to deepen the conflict between the Pure Bliss Land and the Great Luo Dynasty, intensifying the struggle until countless strong individuals from the Pure Bliss Land enter the fray. At that time, with the four great empires and the Pure Bliss Land attacking the Great Luo Dynasty together, the downfall of the Great Luo Dynasty will be inevitable. The east of the Divine Land will only have empires left, and the empire will be prosperous for a thousand years!" Yi Yan eximed excitedly.


    At this moment, Yi Yan''s face was flushed with excitement. Once this n was aplished, the prosperity of the empire for a thousand years would be ensured. Every word Yi Yan spoke made the King of Julu''s heart skip a beat, and the wine in his hand trembled and spilled. Poisonous schemes! Calcted plots! Moreover, Yi Yan''s gaze stretched far ahead, envisioning the battlefield long into the future. This grandmander''s vision was truly far-reaching.


    "No!" Nn Piaoxue immediately refuted.


    "Your Majesty!" Yi Yan eximed, his eyes filled with iprehension.


    "Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva came to battle only after much effort on my part. I want to use this battle with him to make a breakthrough, to temper myself, and reach even higher realms. During this period, there can be no mistakes, and Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva cannot be disturbed. I don''t want to face a weakened Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva. I want to face him at his peak," Nn Piaoxue stated immediately.


    "Your Majesty, Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva is just one strong individual, but Your Majesty is the ruler of a dynasty, a battle with one strong individual can be arranged again in the future, but if the dynasty is lost, it will never return," Yi Yan spoke with deep sincerity.


    "Yi Yan, you don''t understand," Nn Piaoxue suddenly said.


    "Please enlighten me, Your Majesty," Yi Yan asked immediately.


    "You don''t understand the heart of the strong. What my grandfather pursued, what my father pursued, and what I pursue, is not the prosperity of the empire, but immortality, to be immortal. Only by constantly breaking through, growing in the process, can I ascend higher and withstand the heavenly might, achieving immortality. I have prepared for years for this opportunity to face Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva. If I miss this battle, it''s like throwing a punch into thin air, exerting force but causing internal injury," Nn Piaoxue said solemnly.


    "Your Majesty, the life and death of the empire depend entirely on your decision. Once the Great Luo Dynasty is destroyed, with Your Majesty''s talent, you can continuously seek strong opponents to battle. At that time, there will be no worries. Now, if there is any danger..." Yi Yan advised once again.


    "On the path to immortality, no opportunity can be missed. If I miss this battle, I may lose the chance for immortality. Yi Yan, stop talking about it. I have made up my mind, absolutely not," Nn Piaoxue said firmly.


    Looking at Emperor Nn, Yi Yan stared with wide eyes, his eyes red. Such a good opportunity, and it''s being abandoned again? Abandoned again? Yi Yan''s face was now flushed with anger. You can wait, but can I still wait?


    At this moment, the King of Julu spoke sarcastically, "Grand Commander,st time you disobeyed the emperor''s order, His Majesty didn''t pursue it, but this time, don''t take matters into your own hands again!"


    "Pfft~"


    Enraged, Yi Yan was so provoked by the King of Julu''sst sentence that he spat out a mouthful of blood, his eyes filled with resentment. Why was he working so hard for the empire here? What was it all for?


    "Yi Yan," Nn Piaoxue immediately stepped forward to support Yi Yan.


    Although Yi Yan disobeyed the emperor''s order, his contributions to the empire were undeniable. Nn Piaoxue still didn''t want Yi Yan to die.


    After spitting out a mouthful of blood, Yi Yan slowly released Nn Piaoxue''s support. "I''m feeling unwell, I''ll go back first."


    "Sigh, alright, you''ve worked hard, Yi Yan," Nn Piaoxue sighed softly.


    Meanwhile, the King of Julu beside him kept sneering.


    A pce attendant arrived and escorted Yi Yan away. Watching Yi Yan leave, Nn Piaoxue furrowed his brow, while the King of Julu had approached behind him.


    "King of Julu, what do you think?" Nn Piaoxue frowned.


    "I think, although the Grand Commander has agreed to Your Majesty''s request, he may still continue to plot against Princess Qianyou. The Grand Commander now..." the King of Julu stopped halfway through his sentence.


    "What about now?" Nn Piaoxue asked.


    "I cannot say, Your Majesty," the King of Julu replied.


    "Speak! You are forgiven!" Nn Piaoxue said sternly.


    "Yes, the Grand Commander''s power is now rivaling Your Majesty''s. He is disobeying the emperor''s orders, and once disobedient, there may be a second time. Who is the true ruler of the empire in this case, I am worried..." the King of Julu immediately advised.


    "That''s enough!" Nn Piaoxue interrupted immediately.


    "Yes," the King of Julu fell silent.


    After a moment of silence, Nn Piaoxue took a deep breath and said, "Yi Yan is also working to fulfill the wishes of thete emperor. Although his methods are somewhat extreme, ultimately, it''s for the empire. Besides, his health..."


    As Nn Piaoxue spoke, his brows furrowed, clearly showing his annoyance at Yi Yan''sck of respect for the emperor. But Yi Yan had worked hard for the empire his whole life, and now he was facing imminent death. Nn Piaoxue couldn''t bring himself to be too harsh.


    "Yes, but what about Princess Qianyou and Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva?" the King of Julu worriedly asked.


    "Although Yi Yan has agreed, we still need to be cautious. You gather strong individuals to protect Princess Qianyou and her group. As for Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva, you don''t need to worry. Besides me, there''s no one in the entire Sky City who can threaten him," Nn Piaoxue said.


    "Yes," the King of Julu immediately agreed.


    "For thest half month, there must be no mistakes. I''ll be in seclusion this time, so don''t disturb me anymore. The battle in half a month is crucial," Nn Piaoxue said.


    "I obey," the King of Julu immediately replied��


    At the Grand Commander''s Mansion.


    General Tie Xue anxiously watched the pavilion not far away, where the Grand Commander had been sitting motionless for three days since returning from the pce, watching the fish in the pond. Please, let nothing happen!


    "Tie Xue," Yi Yan suddenly spoke up.


    Yi Yan''s words seemed to pour into General Tie Xue''s ears like divine music. Tie Xue quickly ran over and appeared in the pavilion in an instant.


    "Grand Commander," Tie Xue immediately responded.


    "Prepare a grand feast. I want to entertain Princess Qianyou and Enlightened Arhat," Yi Yan said with narrowed eyes.

 Chapter 219: Yi Yan Sets a Trap at the Banquet

    <h4>Chapter 219: Yi Yan Sets a Trap at the Banquet</h4>


    "Invite Princess Qianyou and Enlightened Arhat to the feast? Is the Grand Commander nning to defy the emperor''s orders again and create animosity between the Great Luo Dynasty and the Blissful Pure Land?" General Tie Xue expressed his concern.


    "Why, are you unwilling?" Yi Yan turned to look at Tie Xue.


    "No, as long as it''s the Grand Commander''smand, I will do my best," Tie Xue immediately replied.


    "Heh heh, rest assured, I''ll bear the me for this disobedience alone. After all, I don''t have much time left. If I can do a little more for His Majesty and the empire, it''s worth it," Yi Yan smiled bitterly.


    "No, Grand Commander, that''s not what I meant. I was just thinking,st time the attempt to eliminate Princess Qianyou failed, and now it''s even harder. ording to reports, the King of Julu has dispatched arge number of strong individuals to protect Princess Qianyou and herpanions. Even if we use the ''One Qi Battle Formation,'' we won''t be able to harm them, and Princess Qianyou and herpanions will surely be more vignt about their safety. It''s too difficult to eliminate Princess Qianyou without leaving traces of our involvement," Tie Xue expressed his worries.


    "Heh heh, it''s not too difficult, it''s basically impossible," Yi Yan smiled bitterly.


    "Huh? Then, Grand Commander?" Tie Xue looked puzzled.


    "Who said I want to deal with Princess Qianyou?" Yi Yan chuckled.


    "Huh? Grand Commander wants to deal with Enlightened Arhat and Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva? But, but..." General Tie Xue looked incredulous.


    With a bitter smile, Yi Yan shook his head. "His Majesty forbids me from killing them, so let them deal with each other. Without His Majesty''s full support, I''m as constrained as I wasst time. Any slight mistake could lead to aplete failure. This time, it''s also thest chance. I''ll set another trap and do my best while leaving it to fate! Let''s see if the heavens favor our empire."


    "Yes, Grand Commander," General Tie Xue nodded heavily��


    In the West Garden Pce.


    Qianyou, Gulin, Shuijing, Zhongshan, Ada, and A''er. Everyone looked at the invitation in Princess Qianyou''s hand.


    "Qianyou, what does the invitation say?" Gulin asked.


    "Mr. Yi Yan invites us along with Enlightened Arhat to the Grand Commander''s Mansion for a banquet," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "It''s only a few days away. Could Yi Yan still set up another trap?" Shuijing furrowed his brows in thought.


    "A trap? Setting up another trap?" Gulin eximed in surprise.


    "Inform the prince, thest trap at Misty Lake was likely set up by Yi Yan," Shuijing had to speak the truth.


    "What? Him? He wants to kill us?" Gulin worriedly asked.


    "It''s not that he wants to kill us, he''s been wanting to all along, but judging from the King of Julu''s attitude, Emperor Nn forbids him from taking action. Therefore, every time he acts against the emperor''s orders, he''s restrained by shackles," Princess Qianyou said coldly.


    "What should we do then?" Gulin worried.


    "What does the master think?" Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan again.


    "In my opinion of Yi Yan, this man''s schemes are extremely rare. He walks a fine line, always staying out of the fray. There shouldn''t be any danger to us at the banquet. What we should be more concerned about is what happens before and after the banquet," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "How do you know he won''t harm us at the banquet?" Gulin angrily eximed.


    Seeing Gulin''s expression, Zhongshan could only remain silent. If you don''t believe me, there''s nothing I can do.


    "No, as Mr. Zhongshan said, Yi Yan shouldn''t act against us at the banquet," Shuijing said.


    "You also think so? But what if he really tries to harm us? I think we shouldn''t go," Gulin said.


    "No, we still have our goals. We can''t afford to make enemies at this moment. Since you''re worried, then we''ll invite the King of Julu as well. I believe the King of Julu will be willing toe with us," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Hmm," Master Shuijing nodded��


    Three dayster, in the afternoon, on the floating ind where Yi Yan resided, he bid farewell to a group of people as they left after the banquet.


    "Thank you, Mr. Yi Yan, for your gracious hospitality," Princess Qianyou said.


    "It''s my honor to entertain the princess," Yi Yan smiled warmly.


    "Regardless, today''s visit to the Grand Commander''s Mansion was very enjoyable. Qianyou will take her leave now," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Goodbye!" Yi Yan smiled faintly.


    Then, Princess Qianyou led Gulin, Zhongshan, Shuijing, Ada, and A''er towards the West Garden Pce.


    Watching Princess Qianyou''s retreating figure, Yi Yan smirked coldly before heading in another direction.


    On the other side were King Julu and Enlightened Arhat.


    "Thank you, Mr. Yi Yan, for your hospitality," Enlightened Arhat smiled.


    "If Enlightened Arhat cane, my humble abode is honored. Thank you foring," Yi Yan smiled.


    "Heh heh, my Buddha and Emperor Nn are about topete, so I won''t stay long. I''ll head back now," Enlightened Arhat smiled.


    "Goodbye!" Yi Yan bid farewell.


    "All right, let me apany Enlightened Arhat!" King Julu said.


    "Very well, Your Highness. Thank you!" Yi Yan smiled.


    "Not at all, not at all," King Julu said.


    Then, standing on the floating ind, Yi Yan bid farewell to this second group of people.


    As he watched the two groups in the distance, Yi Yan let out a sigh of relief. Iron Blood stood behind him, also watching the departure of the two groups of people.


    In the distance, Princess Qianyou and her entourage were in the clouds.


    "This Yi Yan is really generous. A whole dragon, cooked and served for a feast. With so many people gathered around one table, each choosing their favorite dragon meat, it''s quite a unique dining experience," Gulin chuckled.


    Zhongshan stood behind Princess Qianyou with a furrowed brow, but there was no reaction from the red phoenix on his forehead, indicating that there was no danger. However, Zhongshan still had a bad feeling.


    "How do you two gentlemen see it?" Princess Qianyou asked again.


    "Unusual, something''s not right," Master Shuijing said, shaking his feather fan.


    "What''s not right?" Gulin asked, looking puzzled.


    "Do you notice, my prince, that there are only ten people at this banquet? Only Yi Yan, Iron Blood, King Julu, Enlightened Arhat, and the six of us. Just ten people?" Master Shuijing furrowed his brows.


    "What''s wrong with just ten people?" Gulin asked in confusion.


    "Just ten people, and there''s not even a single maid or servant serving us. Moreover, there''s no one around the banquet hall, not a single person. We''re left to dine by ourselves," Master Shuijing said.


    "There are only ten of us, but Yi Yan mentioned some important secrets. He might be afraid that the maids and servants would hear them!" Gulin frowned.


    "Heh, important secrets? Would the Grand Commander of the Great Yu Dynasty share secrets with us? Those things are useless once heard. So Yi Yan''s banquet today is very intriguing. I wonder what his intentions are," Master Shuijing frowned.


    "Master, what do you think?" Shuijing looked at Zhongshan.


    "It''s indeed intriguing, and there''s one more thing. It''s the timing," Zhongshan thought for a moment.


    "Timing?" Princess Qianyou frowned, seeming to have remembered something. And Master Shuijing also seemed to understand.


    "What timing?" Gulin frowned, looking at Zhongshan.


    "Our arrival time, Enlightened Arhat''s arrival time, and King Julu''s arrival time. We arrived on time, Enlightened Arhat was two incense stickste, and King Julu was half an hourte," Zhongshan said.


    "Indeed, King Julu and we agreed on the time, but he was half an hourte. He was brought by Iron Blood, so Iron Blood must have dyed him for half an hour. But why was Enlightened Arhat two incense stickste? Enlightened Arhat has never beente to a banquet before," Master Shuijing said, shaking his feather fan.


    "Enlightened Arhat wasn''tte; it''s in the invitation sent by Yi Yan, the time was different. He deliberately had us arrive two incense sticks early," Princess Qianyou suddenly said.


    "Right, he deliberately had us arrive early, then waited alone in the empty hall, while Yi Yan went out again to greet Enlightened Arhat. In the hall, there were only us and that cooked dragon," Master Shuijing frowned in confusion.


    "I think we''ve been set up by Yi Yan!" Zhongshan smiled bitterly.


    "Yes, let''s hope Enlightened Arhat can see through it. I wonder how Yi Yan ns to use those two incense sticks to set us up," Master Shuijing smiled bitterly.


    "Next, we''ll stay in the West Garden Pce. There are still a few days left, the most critical time, we can''t afford any mistakes," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Understood," everyone responded.


    Outside the Sky City, atop a mountain peak.


    "King Julu, you can stop here. The Bodhisattva doesn''t want to be disturbed," Enlightened Arhat said.


    "Haha, very well. Farewell, Enlightened Arhat," King Julu led a group of people to bid farewell to Enlightened Arhat.


    "Farewell," Enlightened Arhat turned and flew away.


    After Enlightened Arhat left, King Julu let out a long sigh.


    "Why did you escort Enlightened Arhat all the way here, Your Highness?" someone behind King Julu asked.


    "It''s just that I''m worried about the Grand Commander. Princess Qianyou and her group will return to the West Garden Pce amidst the attention of the entire city, so they should be fine. But Enlightened Arhat is alone. Ah well, since Enlightened Arhat has returned, I have fulfilled His Majesty''s instructions. Let''s go back," King Julu said.


    "Understood," the person behind King Julu responded��


    In the Grand Commander''s Mansion, in arge hall.


    Yi Yan stood with his hands behind his back, Iron Blood stood behind him, both watching the circr dining table in the center of the hall, illuminated by arge number of night pearls. There were some tes on the edge of the table, and in the center was a purple dragon about ten meters long.


    However, this purple dragon had already been cooked, and parts of its body had been removed for consumption. Now, it was just a te of leftovers.


    But even as leftovers, the purple dragon still emitted a faint purple aura, extremely spiritual.

 Chapter 220: The Great Luo Cloud Mist

    <h4>Chapter 220: The Great Luo Cloud Mist</h4>


    "Grand Marshal, this is the Purple Void Dragon given by His Majesty ten years ago. You''ve never been willing to consume it, but this time, you''re using it all up..." General Iron Blood said with a look of regret as he gazed at the remnants of the entire dragon.


    "Is it a pity?" Yi Yan smiled slightly.


    "Yes, Grand Marshal, you could have used something else instead. There are only two or three Purple Void Dragons in the entire Great Yu," General Iron Bloodmented.


    "I don''t think it''s a pity at all. As long as it seeds, even if they eat all the Purple Void Dragons, it will be worth it," Yi Yan said.


    "Yes, following the Grand Marshal''s instructions, I hid that energy cluster in the right front w of the Purple Void Dragon, and sure enough, Hui Guang Arhat ate that w. How did you know he would eat it?" General Iron Blood immediately asked.


    "Do you remember Hui Guang Arhat''s most powerful move?" Yi Yan asked.


    "Legend has it that his ultimate move is a w technique, though he rarely uses it in public. But whenever he uses it in critical situations, it turns the tide," Iron Blood thought for a moment and said.


    "Indeed, although he uses it rarely, the w technique is likely his most proud skill. Mastering such a technique requires countless insights and practices, which would make him particrly fond of ws. Earlier, I subtly guided him, and he naturally chose the dragon w," Yi Yan smiled.


    "But what if he hadn''t eaten the dragon w?" Iron Blood asked.


    "I already told you, there''s my guidance," Yi Yan said confidently.


    "Yes, regardless of his preferences, as long as the Grand Marshal guides him, he will eat the w. But what exactly is that energy cluster you gave me, which Hui Guang Arhat ate?" Iron Blood asked.


    "Poison," Yi Yan said in a deep voice.


    "Poison? What kind of poison?" Iron Blood asked, looking shocked.


    "The Great Luo Cloud Mist," Yi Yan replied.


    "The Great Luo Cloud Mist? The first deadly poison of the Great Luo? Isn''t it true that only the emperor, princesses, and princes of the Great Luo Heavenly Empire are qualified to possess the Great Luo Cloud Mist?" Iron Blood looked incredulous.


    "Yes. Among us ten, only Princess Qian You could have it. Moreover, she and her people were alone in the hall for the time it takes for two incense sticks to burn, enough time to apply the poison," Yi Yan smiled.


    "Grand Marshal, you''re framing Princess Qian You?" Iron Blood asked.


    "Yes!" Yi Yan affirmed.


    "But Grand Marshal, isn''t it true that only the emperor, princesses, and princes of the Great Luo Heavenly Empire can have the Great Luo Cloud Mist?" Iron Blood asked again.


    Looking at Iron Blood, Yi Yan gave a bitter smile, "Thete emperor once suffered from this poison. Originally, he could have refined it out of his body, but with great foresight, he chose to expel it perfectly at the cost of severe personal injury. Later, he handed it over to me, hoping that this time, it would justify his efforts."


    "Yes, Grand Marshal. However, the Great Luo Cloud Mist is said to be extraordinarily bizarre. It is known by name, but its form is unknown. I had never seen it before either. What if Hui Guang Arhat doesn''t recognize it?" Iron Blood worried.


    "Hui Guang Arhat might not recognize it, but the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva surely will. The ''truth'' will naturallye to light," Yi Yan said with a smile.


    "Grand Marshal intends to borrow the hand of the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva to eliminate Princess Qian You?" Iron Blood said excitedly.


    "It would be best if the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva kills Princess Qian You, setting the stage for a major event. This would sow enmity between the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss and the Great Luo Heavenly Empire. If the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva doesn''t act, but Hui Guang, having followed him for many years, would need his help to detoxify. In detoxifying, the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva will deplete his energy. During his subsequent confrontation with His Majesty, he will be at a disadvantage, and His Majesty will surely win. In a battle between great masters, such battles are earth-shattering, and if His Majesty identally kills the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva, Hui Guang will return to the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss and mention the Great Luo Cloud Mist. While no one will me the fight itself, any underhanded tactics like poisoning beforehand would be uneptable," Yi Yan smiled.


    "The Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss and the Great Luo Heavenly Empire will have their enmity firmly nted," General Iron Blood said, his mouth agape with incredulity.


    "Mmm," Yi Yan nodded.


    "If things go as the Grand Marshal says, regardless of whether Princess Qian You survives or not, enmity between the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss and the Great Luo Heavenly Empire will be inevitable," Iron Blood said with admiration.


    "That''s right, but there''s still one crucial element that must not go wrong," Yi Yan said, shaking his head.


    "What element?" Iron Blood asked.


    "His Majesty must be willing to go through with it," Yi Yan said, shaking his head again.


    "Grand Marshal, are you worried that His Majesty might go soft and spare the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva? I don''t think so. For the sake of Great Yu, His Majesty shouldn''t hesitate," Iron Blood said, shaking his head.


    "Let''s hope so," Yi Yan replied, shaking his head once more.


    "But today, that Zhong Shan was quite interesting. I never imagined there would be someone like him in this world," Iron Blood said, suddenly wearing an odd expression.


    Mentioning Zhong Shan, Yi Yan smiled slightly, "What was so interesting about him?"


    "Zhong Shan waspletely unabashed while eating the dragon. That would have been fine, but when it came to the essence of the Purple Void Dragon, the dragon pearl, he openly imed it in front of everyone, saying he wanted to eat it. Not only that, we all have our dignity and didn''t say anything when he made the im. But he didn''t even eat it then. At the end, he actually packed it up and took it away! Grand Marshal, how can there be such a person? He goes to someone else''s banquet, picks out the best, and then packs it up to take home? How thick-skinned can one be?" Iron Blood said with an odd expression.


    "Thick-skinned? I don''t think so," Yi Yan shook his head.


    "Huh?" Iron Blood looked puzzled.


    "He''s at the Golden Core stage. Dragon meat helps him break through, especially that dragon pearl. If he hadn''t imed it, we would have eaten it. He has no deep ties with us and will have little future contact. He is just a minor character trying to strengthen himself. Why wouldn''t he im it? Thick-skinned? It''s you who aren''t thick-skinned enough. Any true schemer has skin as thick as a city wall," Yi Yan said, shaking his head.


    "Huh? But..." Iron Blood was taken aback.


    "Mr. Shuijing''s talent is not inferior to Zhong Shan''s, but Shuijing is too refined inparison," Yi Yan mused.


    "Grand Marshal, are you saying that Zhong Shan outdid Mr. Shuijing by being shameless?" Iron Blood asked in surprise.


    At the Xiyuan Pce.


    Princess Qian You led her group back to the za.


    "Princess, I would like to borrow Ah Da for a moment," Zhong Shan immediately said.


    "Oh?" Princess Qian You looked puzzled.


    "I consumed a lot of dragon meat just now, and I can feel a surge of energy within me. I also brought back a dragon pearl. In theing days, I want to give my all to break through and will need Ah Da to guard me to prevent any disturbances," Zhong Shan said.


    "Ugh, country bumpkin, you''ve embarrassed us all," Gu Lin sneered from the side.


    Zhong Shan remained indifferent to the scornful looks of others. As long as he stayed true to himself, that was enough. Reaching the Nascent Soul stage from the fourth level of the Golden Core would allow him to return to the Great Li Heavenly Empire and bring Ling''er back.


    Mr. Shuijing looked at Zhong Shan with a hint of admiration. Indeed, making such an unreasonable request at a grand banquet required boldness and thick skin, something he himself stillcked.


    Princess Qian You smiled at Zhong Shan and said, "Very well. Ah Da, assist Mr. Zhong Shan in making a full breakthrough."


    "Yes," Ah Da immediatelyplied.


    To the East of Sky City


    In the depths of a secluded mountain, there lies an ancient temple called Qingling Monastery. Qingling Monastery is home to many monks, all of whom chant Buddhist scriptures continuously. The sound of their chanting echoes through the valley and can be heard from a great distance.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!"


    As the monks chanted their scriptures, a loud, discordant scream suddenly pierced the air from within one of the buildings in the valley. The monks, however, did not stop and continued chanting, soon drowning out the discordant sound.


    Inside the building from which the scream had emanated, the interior was filled with an unusual brilliance. A dark red glow, resembling a lotus flower, enveloped the hall but did not shine beyond it.


    Within the lotus-like glow stood two figures. One was the Hui Guang Arhat, who had recently attended the banquet at the Grand Marshal''s residence. Hui Guang Arhat''s face was pale, and it was he who had let out the painful scream. A puddle of ck bloody in front of him, and a trace of blood lingered at the corner of his mouth, indicating he had just spat out a mouthful of poisonous blood.


    Behind him stood another figure with one palm pressed against Hui Guang Arhat''s back. This person wore a luxurious monk''s robe, had a fair and benevolent face, and appeared very refined. He wore a lotus-patterned monk''s hat and had a staff standing beside him, with a base of purple gold and a top of colored ze. Behind his head, a halo glowed faintly, a symbol of a Bodhisattva.


    This was the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva.


    The Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva slowly withdrew his palm and ced his hands together in a gesture of reverence, his expression calm and serene. Hui Guang Arhat, eyes closed, was adjusting his breath and hisplexion gradually improved.


    After half an incense stick''s time, Hui Guang Arhat finally recovered. He then turned around and knelt before the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva.


    "Thank you, Bodhisattva, for saving my life," Hui Guang Arhat said respectfully.


    The Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva opened his eyes slightly and looked at Hui Guang Arhat. "The Buddha ispassionate. Hui Guang, you have followed me for many years, and I could not stand idly by while your life was at risk."


    "Bodhisattva, I have caused you harm," Hui Guang Arhat said, full of shame.


    "Hui Guang, the fault is not yours," the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva said, shaking his head.


    "No, Bodhisattva, you have a great battle ahead. If it weren''t for saving me, you wouldn''t have weakened your vital energy. It is my fault for attending the banquet and falling into Yi Yan''s trap. He poisoned me to weaken you and ensure Na Lan Piaoxue''s victory," Hui Guang Arhat said, deeply remorseful.


    "Na Lan Piaoxue would not do such a thing. This poison is extremely rare in the world, but I have encountered it before," the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva said, reflecting.


    "Bodhisattva?" Hui Guang Arhat looked at the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva in surprise.


    "This poison is called the Great Luo Cloud Smoke," the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva exined.

 Chapter 221: Shameless!

    <h4>Chapter 221: Shameless!</h4>


    "Great Luo Cloud Smoke? Princess Qian You?" Hui Guang Arhat''s eyes widened in shock.


    "Princess Qian You? Not necessarily," the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva shook his head.


    "No, it must be Princess Qian You. Great Luo Cloud Smoke is only possessed by the Emperor, the Princess, and the Crown Prince of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. Princess Qian You and her people arrived at Yi Yan''s mansion first. At that time, Yi Yan was outside weing me, and only Princess Qian You''s people were inside. She must have nted the poison to force you to save me, hoping you would be defeated by Emperor Na Lan or even perish as a result," Hui Guang Arhat said angrily.


    "Hui Guang!" the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva suddenly called out.


    "Bodhisattva!" Hui Guang Arhat immediately fell silent.


    "You have followed me for so long, how can you still be so impulsive? Even if you see something with your own eyes, it might not be true, let alone something you didn''t see at all. The truth and falsehood of the world cannot be determined by biased hearing or superficial sight. To achieve the state of a Bodhisattva, you must see through illusions and not be disturbed by external matters," the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva reprimanded.


    "Yes, Bodhisattva. But this Great Luo Cloud Smoke, it''s impossible for anyone else to have it. Even if someone did, Princess Qian You is the most likely suspect this time," Hui Guang Arhat argued.


    The Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva smiled slightly at Hui Guang Arhat and said, "Even if it was Princess Qian You who poisoned you, what can you do about it?"


    "I? I would confront her and make her pay for it," Hui Guang Arhat said angrily.


    "Heh, Princess Qian You holds a middle-ranking position in the cosmic hierarchy, just like I do. Although we belong to different systems, within the cosmic order, her status is equal to mine. She represents the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, and you represent the Pure Land of Bliss. They are not equivalent, and you do not have the qualification to confront her or deal with her," the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva exined.


    "Why am I not qualified to deal with her? Bodhisattva, the Pure Land of Bliss and the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty are fundamentally different systems. Why is it not possible?" Hui Guang Arhat protested.


    "Whether it''s cultivating Feng Shui, umting virtue, or gaining fame, although these are different paths, they all fall under the same cosmic canopy and follow the same celestial order. You could confront her, but defying heavenly fate would bring consequences. While you might be able to confront Princess Qian You with your current power, how can you, a being of lower status, im the right to reprimand one of equal rank? Although there might not be immediate repercussions, the heavens will remember your actions. The cosmos has its own order, and the retribution wille, leaving you with deep regret," the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva admonished.


    "But, Bodhisattva, does this mean that higher-ranking individuals can harm lower-ranking ones, and thetter cannot retaliate?" Hui Guang Arhat asked anxiously.


    "No. Karma is inescapable. Lower-ranking individuals can retaliate against higher-ranking ones, but they must use simr methods. Only then will the heavens not intervene," the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva exined.


    "Bodhisattva, is this really true?" Hui Guang Arhat asked, stunned.


    "The cosmic order is maintained with precision, and everything follows thew of cause and effect. Just like how countless monks strive to attain the golden body and true fruition, achieving the state of a Buddha, Bodhisattva, or Arhat is under the protection of the heavens. For example, as an Arhat, you benefit from a threefold eleration in cultivation, which is one of the advantages of your status. Even with the same level of cultivation, you will receive greater celestial support in battle. You have only recently attained the Arhat status, so you have yet to fullyprehend its benefits. Take your time to understand it," the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva advised.


    "But, Bodhisattva, I can let it go, but what about you? When the great battle begins, what if you lose because of your weakened state? Maybe we should call off the fight," Hui Guang Arhat suggested, worried.


    The Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva looked at Hui Guang Arhat and smiled slightly, shaking his head. "You should leave now. I need to continue my preparations for the uing battle. Do not disturb me any further."


    "Bodhisattva..." Hui Guang Arhat began.


    "Leave now!" The Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva closed his eyes again, and the light in the hall withdrew back into his body.


    Seeing the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva once again in meditation, Hui Guang Arhat could only sigh deeply. He bowed respectfully to the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva, then quietly exited the hall, closed the door behind him, and sat cross-legged outside to stand guard.


    Sitting cross-legged, Hui Guang Arhat''s face was filled with hostility as he muttered to himself, "Princess Qian You, hmph!"


    On the day of Emperor Na Lan''s 3,000th birthday celebration.


    A grand banquet had already been prepared in the pce. Emperor Na Lan Piao Xue was in seclusion, and above the Sky City, the true dragon of fortune was swaying, with endless luck gathering to form a swirling golden cloud that never ceased to roll and churn.


    Early in the morning, before the sky was even light, Princess Qian You led a group of people to the za.


    "Are you ready? Sess or failure hinges on this," Princess Qian You said.


    "Yes," everyone responded.


    Subsequently, Princess Qian You rode on a cloud, carrying Zhong Shan, Gu Lin, and others, leading the way. Behind her, dozens of officials followed in a grand procession, heading towards the eastern gate of the city.


    Under countless gazes, they flew out of the eastern gate and continued eastward. Simultaneously, others were flying eastward just like Princess Qian You and her entourage. The eastern skies were bustling with activity this morning.


    Because today was the day of the great battle between Emperor Na Lan and the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva, the battle would take ce at Jingtao Sea in the east of the city!


    Jingtao Sea is an ind sea, arge reservoir within thends of Shenzhou.


    It didn''t take long for the group to arrive at Jingtao Sea. The periphery of the sea was already surrounded by arge number of cultivators. Emperor Na Lan and the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva were top experts of Shenzhou, and the cultivators'' anticipation for this battle seemed even stronger than Emperor Na Lan''s own. Some had arrived as early as three days before, gradually gathering to witness the event.


    The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty''s viewing area was set up in a coastal valley. Camps had been erected in anticipation of Princess Qian You''s arrival, and guards from the Da Yu Dynasty had been stationed around the perimeter.


    Princess Qian You ignored the crowd as the battle had not yet begun. She directly led Zhong Shan, Gu Lin, and others into the central tent to wait for the start of the battle.


    Inside the tent, Princess Qian You briefly set up an array to prevent others from spying with divine sense.


    "Sir, how did your intensive breakthrough go these past few days?" Princess Qian You asked with a smile.


    "Sigh, I''m still at the fourth level of the Golden Core stage, though I am now at the peak of the fourth level," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head with a bitter smile.


    Originally, Zhong Shan had shamelessly packed up the dragon pearl and carried it away after hearing Princess Qian You say it could definitely help him break through. However, despite consuming so much dragon meat and the dragon pearl, and even with the aid of elixirs, he still hadn''t broken through to the fifth level of the Golden Core stage.


    "Humph," Gu Lin snorted with a trace of ridicule from the side. To him, Zhong Shan''s poor innate talent was evident, and he looked at Zhong Shan with disdain.


    "It''s fine; you''ve done well enough," Princess Qian You reassured him.


    "By the way, what happened these past few days? After Yi Yan framed usst time, has there been any reaction from Hui Guang Arhat?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "What framing? Yi Yan didn''t frame us at all. Hui Guang Arhat hasn''t appeared," Gu Lin sneered.


    "Impossible!" Zhong Shan said definitively. It made no sense.


    "On the second day of your seclusion, the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva''s aura became restrained, no longer showing an aggressive momentum but rather like a boundless river, continuous and unending," Mr. Shui Jing said, frowning as he fanned himself.


    "Changing aura before battle is akin to changingmanders on the battlefield at thest minute. This is an ominous sign. Yi Yan wants the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva to die! And then me it on the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty?" Zhong Shan immediately suggested.


    "That is possible, but not certain," Mr. Shui Jing nodded.


    "In any case, it''s better to be cautious," Zhong Shan said.


    "How do we guard against it? Shui Jing and Qian You have considered it. Right now, the truth is still unclear, and even if it is true, what can we do? Can we prevent them from dueling?" Gu Lin argued.


    This chapter delves into theplex political and spiritual maneuvers leading up to a significant confrontation. The characters grapple with the implications of divine order and justice, highlighting their differing approaches and concerns. Princess Qian You''s calm demeanor contrasts sharply with Zhong Shan''s assertive paranoia and Gu Lin''s disdainful pragmatism, setting the stage for a highly anticipated battle.


    Gu Lin was left speechless, and Zhong Shan''s sudden sh of insight lit up his face with a smile.


    "You truly are clever, my lord. You''ve hit the nail on the head. We need to find a way to stop their duel midway," Zhong Shan said with a chuckle.


    "Huh?" Gu Lin looked bewildered, unsure whether to feel pleased or frustrated by thepliment.


    "Oh? Do you have a n, Sir?" Princess Qian You asked, her curiosity piqued.


    "Indeed, I do. Princess, please call over the ceremonial officer. I have some instructions for him," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Very well," Princess Qian You nodded, summoning the ceremonial officer.


    Zhong Shan whispered a few words to the officer, whose face began twitching with difort.


    Seeing the officer''s reaction, Gu Lin immediately asked, "What n did he suggest?"


    "Your Highness, he merely asked them to inscribe seven words on the cliff face. As soon as the Great Majestic Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva shows signs of defeat, these words will be exposed to everyone," Zhong Shan exined.


    "What words?" Gu Lin asked eagerly, as everyone else also turned their attention to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan didn''t reply, but the ceremonial officer, his face still twitching, said, "Shameless! Taking advantage of others!"


    When the officer finished speaking, everyone fell silent for a moment. Shameless? They were going to use Emperor Na Lan of being shameless?


    Gu Lin gave Zhong Shan a peculiar look, while Princess Qian You smiled and instructed the officer to proceed as nned. Mr. Shui Jing, however, just shook his feather fan and sighed inwardly, thinking, "Indeed, when ites to being shameless, you outdo even Emperor Na Lan."


    "Princess, shall we begin?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes," everyone nodded in agreement.


    Then, Gu Lin, Princess Qian You, and Mr. Shui Jing each took out a mask, while Zhong Shan quickly smeared some resin and other materials on himself, Ah Da, and Ah Er. Soon, the six people in the tent had altered their appearances and changed their clothes. They were still the same people, but now they were in disguise.


    With a stomp, a hole appeared in the floor.


    The group quickly descended through the hole. This tunnel had been dug by the people of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty several days ago. It didn''t lead to the back of the mountain but extended under the sea to a secret location.


    They exited the valley and quickly made their way back towards Sky City.


    Once in the city, Princess Qian You turned to Zhong Shan and said, "Sir, we''ll rely entirely on you for the Heavenly Prison."


    "Princess, rest assured. Once everything is set, follow the route I''ve outlined," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Very well," Princess Qian You nodded.


    With that, Princess Qian You, Gu Lin, Mr. Shui Jing, and Ah Er took one path, while Zhong Shan and Ah Da took another. They split into two groups and headed in different directions.

 Chapter 222 - 222 Negotiation across time and space

    <h4>Chapter 222: Negotiation across time and space</h4>


    zhongshan, apanied by Ah Da, headed straight to the Heavenly Prison.


    On the way, they quickly reverted to their normal appearances and discarded their disguises.


    At the entrance of the Heavenly Prison, two officials were already waiting. One was the ceremonial officer from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, and the other was an official from the Great Yu Dynasty who had apanied Princess Qian You into the prisonst time.


    At this moment, the official from the Great Yu Dynasty wore an impatient expression.


    Approaching them, Zhong Shan greeted, "Mr. Qian, it''s good to see you again."


    The ceremonial officer from the Great Luo Dynasty let out a relieved sigh and stepped aside.


    "You... You''re that attendant of Princess Qian You?" the official from the Great Yu Dynasty recalled.


    "Mr. Qian has a good memory. It''s been a while, yet Mr. Qian still remembers me. Today, I''m here again to trouble Mr. Qian. By order of the princess, we need to enter the Heavenly Prison once more," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Hmm, King Julu instructed that every time you enter, we must apany you and report to King Julu. Why have you suddenlye here? His Majesty''s birthday is approaching. What business do you have in the Heavenly Prison?" Mr. Qian furrowed his brows and asked.


    "The great battle between the emperors is imminent. Once victorious, the princess will request Emperor Na Lan to release our Great Luo prisoners. To ensure everything goes smoothly, the princess has sent me tomunicate with the prisoners, advising them to be cautious in their words and actions to avoid offending Emperor Yu in the future," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Oh?" Mr. Qian squinted his eyes.


    "Hehe, I knew Mr. Qian would be willing to help," Zhong Shan said, leaning slightly towards Mr. Qian and gesturing with his sleeve.


    Understanding his gesture, Mr. Qian reached out his hand, and Zhong Shan handed him a bottle of pills.


    With a slight examination, Mr. Qian''s eyes lit up, and he immediately smiled, "Very well, this is what I should do. Please."


    "Please," Zhong Shan replied.


    Then, Zhong Shan, apanied by Ah Da, followed Mr. Qian into the Heavenly Prison, while the previous ceremonial officer from the Great Luo Dynasty was left outside to wait.


    Representing King Julu, Mr. Qian encountered no obstacles along the way. None of the prison guards dared to stop them.


    Inside one of the prison cells where Wu Wanli was held, Lu Jianping knelt before him.


    "Master," Lu Jianping said with concern.


    "Jianping, the time hase. Today is Emperor Na Lan''s birthday, and Princess Qian You will stage a prison break. My end is near," Wu Wanli said with a sorrowful smile.


    "Master, maybe nothing will happen. As long as you refuse to leave, Princess Qian You can''t take you away," Lu Jianping said.


    "Refuse? If I stay, my entire family will be destroyed. If I return, my entire family will also be destroyed. It''s better to die on the road than to die now," Wu Wanli said with a bitter smile.


    "Master," Lu Jianping eximed, heartbroken.


    "Sssssss..."


    Suddenly, Wu Wanli tore open his shirt, revealing his chest.


    On Wu Wanli''s chest, there was a square-shaped drawing covered with intricate and mysterious patterns. At first nce, it looked as if it had been sttered with ink.


    "For the past ten years, you''ve been protecting me diligently. Even though you''ve left behind an unmarried wife, I''m grateful to you," Wu Wanli said.


    "Master, please don''t say such things. Everything I have is given by you. I''ve served you withoutint or regret," Lu Jianping said.


    "Hehe, with you, Lu Jianping, as my disciple in this lifetime, I''m satisfied. I''ve taught you everything I can. Except for those cities, on my chest is the strongest city from the Encyclopedia of Ten Thousand Cities, the number one city under the heavens. I''ve already erased this city from the Encyclopedia, leaving only one copy in the world, which I''ve taught you to see through special methods," Wu Wanli said.


    "L�� Ji��n P��ng," L�� Ji��np��ng''s face suddenly showed a panicked expression.


    "Tear~~~"


    A gush of blood sprayed out, and Wu W��nl��''s chest instantly became a mess of flesh and blood. But on Wu W��nl��''s palm, there was an extra piece of human skin parchment.


    Gently handing the human skin parchment to L�� Ji��np��ng.


    L�� Ji��np��ng was stunned,pletely speechless.


    "Take it. This is thest thing I can give you," Wu W��nl�� said with a relieved smile on his face.


    "Master!" L�� Ji��np��ng hugged Wu W��nl�� tightly.


    "After I die, don''t bother with me. Don''t look at my body. You are still a prison guard. After this, regardless of whether you want to go to any dynasty or heavenly realm, I will support you," Wu W��nl��''s chest was drenched in fresh blood, growing weaker and weaker because he had sealed his true essence with a special method, rendering him no different from an ordinary person.


    "Master~~~~~" Tears poured down L�� Ji��np��ng''s face as he held the human skin parchment Wu W��nl�� had handed him.


    "Put it away," Wu W��nl�� stared with widened eyes.


    "Yes." With tears streaming down his eyes, L�� Ji��np��ng took the human skin parchment and ced it into his storage bracelet.


    "What are you doing?" Outside the Heavenly Prison, Mr. Qi��n''s angry shout suddenly sounded.


    Zh��ng Sh��n, Ah Da, and Mr. Qi��n arrived.


    Zh��ng Sh��n gave Ah Da a meaningful look, and Ah Da swiftly struck Mr. Qi��n unconscious with a palm.


    Wu W��nl�� looked at Zh��ng Sh��n and Ah Da outside, smiling bitterly. With hisst breath, he got up and bowed respectfully to Zh��ng Sh��n and Ah Da, "Wu W��nl�� thanks His Majesty the Great Luo for his kindness."


    Ah Da quickly stepped forward, unleashing his true essence, releasing Wu W��nl��''s restraint, and Wu W��nl�� regained his cultivation.


    However, the next moment, Ah Da widened his eyes, staring at Wu W��nl��, who had a crazed and satisfied expression on his face.


    "Sir, Wu W��nl�� has self-destructed his Nascent Soul and severed his meridians. He''s dead," Ah Da said with an incredulous expression.


    On the side, prison guard L�� Ji��np��ng slowly retreated to the corner, filled with reluctance. He wanted to approach but seeing Ah Da and Zh��ng Sh��n, he did nothing because he knew that whatever he did would be futile and might even get him caught, betraying his master''s trust.


    "Dead!" Ah Da sighed lightly.


    "Ah Da, guard the outside and don''t let anyone disturb. I''ll talk to this L�� Ji��np��ng," Zh��ng Sh��n narrowed his eyes.


    "Sir, did you call me?" L�� Ji��np��ng immediately pretended to be puzzled.


    "Yes," Ah Da quickly responded and swiftly exited.


    Zh��ng Sh��n set up a formation inside, isting the sound, and Ah Da didn''tin, diligently guarding outside.


    "Sir, what did you call me for?" L�� Ji��np��ng still pretended to be clueless.


    "Collect your master''s body. Then, find a good ce for his burial," Zh��ng Sh��n said calmly.


    Conflicted and doubtful, L�� Ji��np��ng nced at Zh��ng Sh��n. Seeing Zh��ng Sh��n''s indifferent attitude, L�� Ji��np��ng felt torn. Finally, he weakened psychologically and immediately approached, picking up Wu W��nl��''s body.


    "Who are you, and how do you know he''s my master?" L�� Ji��np��ng asked.


    "Sit," Zh��ng Sh��n gestured to the seat in front.


    L�� Ji��np��ng stared directly at Zh��ng Sh��n, not giving in for a moment, but eventually sat down.


    "I''m Zh��ng Sh��n, currently working under Princess Qian You. As for knowing you''re Wu W��nl��''s disciple, it wasn''t me who said it. It was your father," Zh��ng Sh��n said gently.


    "Father?" L�� Ji��np��ng''s eyes widened in rage, immediately standing up as if Zh��ng Sh��n''s words had touched his bottom line, ready to fight Zh��ng Sh��n to the death.


    Seeing the fiery L�� Ji��np��ng, Zh��ng Sh��n became even more satisfied. Such a righteous person was exactly what he needed.


    "Sit," Zh��ng Sh��n said.


    L�� Ji��np��ng sat down slowly, ring at Zh��ng Sh��n with extreme hostility.


    "You don''t know whether I''m good or bad for now, but it doesn''t matter. I''ll show you something," Zh��ng Sh��n said.


    Then, a memory crystal suddenly appeared in Zh��ng Sh��n''s hand.


    L�� Ji��np��ng stared at the memory crystal, feeling a sense of foreboding.


    Zh��ng Sh��n expelled his true essence, and in the memory crystal, a scene from several months ago at the L�� residence appeared. The young master of the Zh��o family led arge group of experts to besiege the L�� family, intending to massacre them. L�� Ji��np��ng''s father stood in front alone, and the L�� family was on the brink of destruction. At that moment, L�� Ji��np��ng''s fianc��e bravely sacrificed herself to save the L�� family.


    "Father, my daughter-inw is an unfortunate person. Before the wedding, Ji��np��ng suddenly disappeared, and his life or death was unknown. Today, he has brought disaster upon the L�� family. I''m sorry for the L�� family, sorry for Ji��np��ng. I can''t watch the L�� family perish because of me. However, in my daughter-inw''s heart, she has long been Ji��np��ng''s wife. Whether in life or death, she belongs to Ji��np��ng. I''m sorry, Father. When Ji��np��nges back, tell him not to be sad for me, to live well." Listening to D�� N��''s tragic and heartbreaking words, L�� Ji��np��ng boiled with emotion. At this moment, his mind waspletely drawn into the images in the memory crystal. His father supported the L�� family, and his fianc��e waited dutifully for ten years withoutint or regret. All of this melted L�� Ji��np��ng''s heart. But these most important people, forced into such a situation by the young master of the Zh��o family, made L�� Ji��np��ng wish he could immediately rush forward, kill the young master Zh��o, and tell his father that he was safe, and reassure his fianc��e that he was well.


    Seeing L�� Ji��np��ng''s expression, Zh��ng Sh��n smiled faintly and retrieved the memory crystal.


    "What happened next? What happened next?" L�� Ji��np��ng asked anxiously, his whole body like an ant on a hot pan.


    "What do you want to happen next?" Zh��ng Sh��n asked with a smile.


    "Kill Zh��o''s young master, save D�� N��, save D�� N��!" L�� Ji��np��ng looked at Zh��ng Sh��n eagerly, as if the salvation of the L�� family depended on Zh��ng Sh��n''s nod.


    "If I save them, then what? If I don''t save them, then what?" Zh��ng Sh��n asked.


    "If you save them, I will be grateful to you. Whatever you want, I will give you," L�� Ji��np��ng looked at Zh��ng Sh��n hopefully.


    In this strange scene, although this was an event from several months ago, Zh��ng Sh��n''s words made it seem like it was happening right now. Only Zh��ng Sh��n could save them. As long as Zh��ng Sh��n agreed, he could travel through time and space to intervene.


    "I only want you!" Zh��ng Sh��n said solemnly.


    "Me?" L�� Ji��np��ng''s heart eased a bit because Zh��ng Sh��n''s words indicated that he would save them.


    "Yes, I will save your fianc��e and your entire L�� family. I only want you. For the next hundred years, you will listen to my orders and serve me with all your might," Zh��ng Sh��n said.


    Beforeing here, Zh��ng Sh��n knew this deal would seed because L�� Ji��np��ng was a person of clear grievances. For the sake of his family and fianc��e, he would definitely agree, and once he agreed, he would surely keep his promise. As for a hundred years, Zh��ng Sh��n was extremely confident. Even the most stubborn person, given a hundred years, would bepletely loyal and obedient to him.

 Chapter 223: The Start of a World-Shaking Battle

    <h4>Chapter 223: The Start of a World-Shaking Battle</h4>


    "For a hundred years, I guarantee that all eighty-three members of your n will reach the Golden Core stage in their cultivation. How about it?" Zhong Shan said with a smile, looking at Lu Jianping.


    Lu Jianping stared at Zhong Shan, suspicion and doubt swirling in his mind.


    "You can think about it. For a hundred years, I won''t limit your cultivation and will provide the best assistance. After that, you can choose to stay or leave, the decision will be yours," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Lu Jianping gazed at Zhong Shan and finally said, "Alright, as long as my n remains safe."


    Although Zhong Shan''s methods were somewhat unscrupulous, threatening Lu Jianping with the lives of his entire n, from beginning to end, Zhong Shan had remained an outsider and had not directly coerced the Lu family.


    "Very well, please take a look." Zhong Shan took out a memory crystal and continued ying the scene where he saved Lu Jianping''s fianc��e with a pebble and crippled Young Master Zhao with a single palm strike.


    Lu Jianping watched with great satisfaction, and Zhong Shan was equally pleased.


    "Where are my family members?" Lu Jianping turned to Zhong Shan once more.


    "You know we came here for your master. Wu Wanli is dead. Regardless of the oue, we will certainly be investigated. I have been to your Lu family, so they will inevitably be found. When the Great Yu Empire traces the clues, they will undoubtedly find you. Therefore, I have relocated your entire n to a safe ce," Zhong Shan exined.


    "My entire family?" Lu Jianping was astonished.


    "Yes, everyone. After we leave, you must immediately depart from Sky City. Head three hundred miles north of Qili Town to the bald mountain. Someone will be waiting for you there to take you to your family," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Waiting for me?" Lu Jianping frowned, surprised by Zhong Shan''s meticulous nning.


    "Yes, at that time, use a luminous pearl as your token. Remember, no matter what it looks like, you must trust it," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "No matter what it looks like?" Lu Jianping asked, puzzled.


    "You''ll understand when the timees. Its appearance is quite unique. Just remember to use the luminous pearl as your token," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Alright," Lu Jianping nodded, indifferent.


    "In that case, we shall take our leave. As for what to do with Lord Qian, that''s up to you," Zhong Shan said with a smile. He then removed the g formation and quickly left the heavenly prison with Ah Da.


    No one dared to stop Zhong Shan and Ah Da, only wondering why Lord Qian had note out.


    Zhong Shan and Ah Da left, gave a look to the Da Luo official, and then found a hidden ce to disguise themselves before quickly flying towards the north gate, preparing to leave the city.


    Just as Zhong Shan and Ah Da were flying north, a massive surge of fortune began to churn above Sky City.


    The fortune dragon atop the city, which had been coilingzily, suddenly swayed. Its eyes shone with golden light, its head lifted high, as if filled with boundless fighting spirit.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The fortune dragon let out a resounding roar, and the entire Sky City trembled. This supreme heavenly might made every citizen of Sky City feel an urge to kneel and worship the heavens.


    This roar not only echoed throughout Sky City but also resonated in the distant horizon, carrying the same vast dragon chant.


    Under the oppressive force of the dragon''s might, Zhong Shan and Ah Da descended onto a mountain peak, looking towards the imperial pce at the center. At the very heart of the pce was a radiant golden mountain, and atop its peak, on the pce za, a figure in a golden robe suddenly appeared.


    From a great distance, there was a tiny ck dot. But even from afar, Zhong Shan could feel its immense presence. It was as if the entire world had plunged into darkness, with only that single point of light shining through. In this darkened environment, that point of light was exceptionally dazzling.


    The golden figure radiated an aura of pride that soared straight into the clouds. Above, the fortune dragon mirrored its movements, swaying its massive body in perfect sync with the figure below.


    "Long live our Emperor, long live, long live!"


    "Long live our Emperor, long live, long live!"


    "Long live our Emperor, long live, long live!"


    ... The chant of worship echoed unevenly throughout Sky City.


    Zhong Shan squinted, fixing his gaze on the distant figure.


    The Great Yu Emperor, Nn Piaoxue?


    Nn Piaoxue stood proudly against the clouds, a fierce battle aura piercing the sky. With a step, he floated into the air, and it seemed as though the restrictions over Sky City had suddenly vanished. As he soared skyward, the fortune dragon above stirred, swinging its tail abruptly.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a resounding dragon roar, the fortune dragon surged into Nn Piaoxue''s body. As he flew eastward, the surrounding sky turned a golden hue, filled with a vast, overwhelming power that seemed capable of annihting everything.


    Standing atop the mountain peak, Zhong Shan clenched his fists. Although Nn Piaoxue had already departed, the scene was deeply imprinted in Zhong Shan''s mind. Such power, so boundless, it made his very soul tremble, even as a fourth-level Golden Core cultivator. What kind of existence was this?


    Nn Piaoxue?


    "Sir!" Ah Da called out from the side.


    "Let''s go!" Zhong Shan snapped back to reality and continued towards the northern gate with Ah Da.


    People who had not yet left the city began to pour out in a frenzy after Nn Piaoxue''s departure.


    Zhong Shan and Ah Da followed this surge and quickly left the city, heading towards a specific distant location.


    They flew north swiftly.


    They didn''t stop until they reached their predetermined destination.


    Ah Da stood behind Zhong Shan, who gazed into the far distance and exhaled deeply.


    "Sir, now we just wait for the Princess to seed?" Ah Da asked.


    "Exactly. The great formation over Sky City has loosened. Once the Princess seizes the Ten Thousand Cities Treasure Mirror, she can quickly escape and rendezvous with us here," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    "Hmm, it''s a pity we won''t get to witness the battle between Nn Piaoxue and the Great Dragon Buddha," Ah Da sighed.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded, sharing the sentiment of regret.


    The Furious Sea roared with storm and wave, the surging tides crashing against the shores.


    Countless cultivators gathered at the periphery, waiting in silence. The world-shaking battle was about to begin, and everyone was filled with anticipation.


    As everyone watched eagerly, from the west, a figure bathed in boundless golden light slowly flew towards them. Looking at that figure, the crowd felt a peculiar sensation, as if the very heavens and earth around him had been assimted by the golden energy.


    The Great Yu Emperor, Nn Piaoxue.


    Nn Piaoxue was the first to arrive. Once he reached the Furious Sea, he stood directly on the surface of the sea.


    From the horizon, his majestic presence dominated the scene, the golden radiance engulfing the vast expanse, making him the central figure of the impending battle.


    As soon as he stood there, the raging waves of the Furious Sea suddenly stilled. The towering waves instantly fell back, transforming the once tumultuous sea into a mirror-like expanse, so calm it instilled fear.


    The sea''s surface had no ripples��absolutely none.


    All the onlookers took a deep breath.


    Was this the power of Emperor Nn? Could he subdue an entire sea with his presence alone?


    Simultaneously, from the east of the Furious Sea, Dawei Tianlong Bodhisattva emerged from Qingling Monastery. d in a resplendent kasaya, a lotus crown on his head, and wielding a purple-gold zed staff, he walked slowly forward. With each step, his figure would suddenly vanish and reappear at a distant location, a seemingly mundane walk that carried an air of boundless mystery. Additionally, wherever he set foot, nts would burst into growth, dead trees would revive, and flowers would bloom.


    Dawei Tianlong Bodhisattva continued his steady walk until he reached the Furious Sea.


    Across the vast sea, he locked eyes with Nn Piaoxue, who stood on the other side.


    The battle was about to begin. Both sides'' subordinates had already arrived.


    Huiguang Arhat had arrived early and stood on a distant mountain peak, coldly observing a heavily guarded tent by the shore.


    "Da Luo Empire''s Princess Qianyou?" Huiguang Arhat muttered with resentment.


    Another observer was Grand Commander Yi Yan of the Great Yu Empire.


    Yi Yan, gazing at the tightly shut central tent, furrowed his brow. After a moment of contemtion, he led Ironblood General towards the tent.


    "Grand Commander!" The Great Yu soldiers guarding the perimeter immediately greeted him respectfully.


    "Inform Princess Qianyou that Yi Yan is here to see her," Yi Yan ordered.


    The battle was about to begin. Why was Princess Qianyou''s tent still closed? It made no sense.


    "Yes, sir." The soldier responded quickly and ran towards the tent.


    As he reached the tent, a court official blocked his way. After hearing the soldier''s report, the official seemed puzzled but quickly approached Yi Yan.


    "Greetings, Grand Commander," the Da Luo official said.


    Seeing the official blocking the way, Yi Yan sensed something amiss. The official hadn''t even gone to inform Princess Qianyou; instead, he took it upon himself to intercept the messenger. Could it be that Princess Qianyou was not inside?


    "Please inform Princess Qianyou that Yi Yan is here to see her," Yi Yan reiterated.


    "To report to the Grand Commander, just moments ago, perhaps influenced by the Emperor''s aura, the Princess experienced a sudden epiphany and has entered seclusion. The crown prince and others are standing guard, and she has instructed that no one should disturb her. We ask for your understanding," the official replied respectfully.


    A sudden epiphany? Yi Yan sneered, his eyes narrowing at the official, filled with disbelief.


    "Are you telling the truth?" Yi Yan pressed, his gaze intense.


    The official, unnerved by Yi Yan''s disbelief, insisted, "Every word I speak is true, sir. There is no falsehood."


    Hearing the official''s words, Yi Yan turned without waiting for a response and walked away. Ironblood, puzzled, followed closely.


    As Yi Yan departed, the official was slightly taken aback. What was wrong with the Grand Commander?


    Once they were a distance away, Ironblood quickly asked, "Grand Commander, what''s going on?"


    "Gather the troops. We''re returning to Sky City. Princess Qianyou and her group have already gone back to the city," Yi Yan ordered.


    "Yes, sir." Although Ironblood was filled with confusion, if the Grand Commander said that Princess Qianyou had returned to the city, then she must have returned.

 Chapter 224: Beacon of Light

    <h4>Chapter 224: Beacon of Light</h4>


    Y�� Y��n''s departure for Princess Qi��ny��u''s encampment did not go unnoticed. Among those who observed this development were Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n and King J��l��. Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n, eyes narrowing, disappeared from his spot in a flicker, while King J��l�� let out a cold, knowing smile.


    As Y�� Y��n led his troops away, Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n vanished as well. King J��l��, his brows furrowing, sensed an ominous foreboding. Where had they gone?


    Just as King J��l��''s thoughts churned with uncertainty, a servant from the J��l�� Manor hurriedly approached and knelt on one knee before him.


    "W��''��n, why are you here?" King J��l��''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "Your Highness, terrible news! J��l�� Manor has been raided, and the W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror has been stolen," W��''��n reported.


    "What?!" King J��l��''s eyes bulged with shock.


    "The W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror... it''s gone!" W��''��n reiterated.


    King J��l��, eyes filled with a mix of fear and anger, scanned the surroundings. His gaze fell upon Emperor N��l��n and the Great Virtuous Dragon Bodhisattva, standing across the two ends of the sea.


    "Let''s go, back to the city," King J��l�� ordered in a fury.


    J��l�� Manor


    At the manor, the once grand floating ind had copsed into a pile of rubble. The ground was strewn with debris, and a nearby mountain had been severed in half. King J��l�� frantically sifted through the ruins, apanied by numerous officers who assisted in the cleanup. Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n stood silently at a distance, kept at bay by the guards.


    Amidst the wreckage of the floating ind, arge circle of soldiers stood guard around a single individual.


    It was Y�� Y��n.


    d in a simple green hemp robe, Y�� Y��n bent down, picked up a handful of crushed stone, and squeezed it into fine powder, letting it fall through his fingers with a frown.


    "Search, search everywhere! Search outside the city and alert the nearby towns. Mobilize all soldiers immediately," King J��l�� roared in anger.


    "King J��l��!" Y�� Y��n''s calm voice suddenly called out.


    In his rage, King J��l�� had nearly forgotten the significance of the W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror. The emperor had entrusted it to him because of his loyalty, asking him to decipher its mysteries. Yet, in the brief moment he left the city, it had been stolen? No, it had been robbed��brazenly, in broad daylight! The mighty J��l�� Manor, raided by thieves! How could he exin this to the emperor?


    Adding insult to injury, he had no idea who had taken it. The thieves had left no trace, even amidst the ruins he hadbed through. It was maddening, humiliating. How would he face the emperor now?


    Just then, Y�� Y��n''s voice broke through his thoughts.


    Fueled by anger, King J��l�� strode over to Y�� Y��n, ring at him. Did Y�� Y��ne here to mock him?


    "King J��l��, is it true that the W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror has been stolen?" Y�� Y��n asked, his tone unperturbed.


    "Yes!" King J��l��, seething with frustration, red at Y�� Y��n, suspecting that he hade to ridicule him.


    "May I ask, has Princess Qi��ny��u or her entourage been seen near the Heavenly Prison?" Y�� Y��n inquired calmly.


    "The Heavenly Prison? Of course! It must be Princess Qi��ny��u and her people," King J��l�� finally identified the culprits.


    "Summon the warden of the Heavenly Prison at once, and find out if W�� W��nl�� is still there!" King J��l��manded one of his subordinates.


    "Yes, Your Highness," the man responded promptly.


    "King J��l��, for anyone from the Great Luo Dynasty to enter the Heavenly Prison, they need your or my explicit permission. Did you not pay attention when they entered?" Y�� Y��n sighed as he looked at King J��l��.


    "Princess Qi��ny��u and her entourage only visited the Heavenly City once, and that was after the grand banquet at J��l�� Manor," King J��l�� fumed. "Every word they said was recorded. How was I to know they had plotted this long beforeing here?"


    "Once is enough," Y�� Y��n replied with a wry smile. "If they went there every day, wouldn''t that have drawn your attention?"


    "So, what now? Are you sure it was Princess Qi��ny��u?" King J��l��, still enraged, asked again.


    "At the Stormy Coast, Princess Qi��ny��u and her group have already fled. They must have returned to the Heavenly City. If you don''t believe me, just ask the prison warden," Y�� Y��n said, shaking his head.


    "In any case, the W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror cannot be stored in a storage bracelet. It must be held in hand, and it emits a constant aura of menace. I will immediately order all city troops to search outside the city. As long as the W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror is within the range of our divine sense, we will quickly locate it," King J��l�� dered.


    "Agreed," Y�� Y��n nodded.


    "City officials of the four great cities, inform all the cities using the ''Beacon Light''. Within the D��y�� Kingdom, implement war preparedness. No one is to leave, and mobilize the troops to search in all directions. Any suspicious individuals must be apprehended. Use divine sense to scan the area. Anyone who discovers the W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror will be rewarded with 200,000 top-grade spirit stones, and anyone who retrieves it will receive 2,000,000 top-grade spirit stones and a promotion by one rank without exception," King J��l�� ordered.


    "Understood," the city officials swiftly dispersed to execute the orders.


    Shortly thereafter, atop the city walls of the Heavenly City, a crimson beam with a diameter of three meters shot rapidly toward the south.


    The beam, cutting through clouds and fog, traveled unimpeded and appeared thousands of miles away in an instant, its speed increasing as it streaked through the sky.


    Simultaneously, eight other beams of light shot out from different sections of the city walls, each one traveling an infinite distance in a blink.


    Momentster, in a city far to the south, a red light suddenly pierced through the sky and hit the top of the city wall, casting a glow on a white surface.


    The red light illuminated the wall, revealing small characters in its glow. It was King J��l��''smand.


    This was the ''Beacon Light'', a method ofmunication between cities separated by short distances. It required special construction between the cities to function, a technology unique to the imperial cities of the Heavenly Empire and introduced to the D��y�� Empire after modifications by W�� W��nl��.


    The message spread rapidly to surrounding cities. Numerous troops began to leave the cities, searching in all directions for suspicious individuals and using divine sense to scan for the W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror. The cities received the message and went into war readiness mode, with no one allowed to move without orders.


    Back in the Heavenly City.


    The prison warden knelt before King J��l�� and Y�� Y��n, recounting every detail of Zh��ng Sh��n and Lord Qi��n''s visit to the prison.


    "It was them! It was definitely them!" King J��l�� raged.


    "W�� W��nl�� is dead?" Y�� Y��n narrowed his eyes.


    "Investigate! Find out where they have been in the past few months and whom they have met," King J��l�� ordered.


    "Yes," the subordinates responded immediately.


    "King J��l��, I think our priority now should be to recover the W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror," Y�� Y��n suggested with a frown.


    "Indeed. We must retrieve the W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror. W��''��n,e here. Tell me, which direction did Princess Qi��ny��u and her group headst?" King J��l�� demanded.


    "Your Highness, after His Majesty left and the Heavenly City was undefended, they headed south," W��''��n reported.


    "The Southern Route? The Southern Route?" King J��l�� murmured in doubt. He couldn''t determine if Princess Qi��ny��u''s party had deliberately created a diversion or if they genuinely headed south. Finally, out of options, he turned to Y�� Y��n.


    At that moment, Y�� Y��n was crouching down, drawing lines on the ground with a small twig. He sketched out a map that made little sense to anyone else, then squinted his eyes and said, "They should be heading north."


    "North?" King J��l�� stared at Y�� Y��n intently.


    "Yes. With the beacon lights signaling and tens of thousands of troops deployed for a search, the north provides the best route for concealment and escape," Y�� Y��n said with conviction.


    "Very well, there''s no time to lose. We must pursue them quickly," King J��l�� agreed.


    "Your Highness, allow me to apany you. Princess Qi��ny��u poisoned me not long ago; I must seek justice," Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n stepped forward and requested.


    Upon hearing this, King J��l�� furrowed his brow. However, Y�� Y��n merely smiled slightly and said, "Since Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n wishes to go, Your Highness might as well take him along."


    King J��l�� nced at Y�� Y��n with a frown. Seeing Y�� Y��n''s peculiar expression, King J��l��''s heart tightened. He immediately understood what was happening. Y�� Y��n was once again acting against the emperor''s orders, but King J��l�� wisely decided not to voice this aloud. In fact, he thought it might be beneficial.


    "Very well, I appreciate your assistance, Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n," King J��l�� said.


    "Thank you!" Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n replied��


    Far to the north of the Heavenly City, at an infinite distance.


    On the peak of a mountain.


    Zh��ng Sh��n, G�� L��n, Shu�� J��ng, Princess Qi��ny��u, and her guards, �� D�� and �� ��r, had gathered once again. G�� L��n was holding a green jade b about a foot long and wide, which was emitting wisps of green aura.


    "G�� L��n, Mr. Shu�� J��ng, we part ways here," Princess Qi��ny��u said, looking at the two of them.


    "Qi��ny��u, you..." G�� L��n''s eyes shed with reluctance.


    "Y�� Y��n has likely deduced that we headed north. Troops from the surrounding cities have already been dispatched to search for us. We will divert the pursuers while you take the W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror back. With Mr. Shu�� J��ng''s protection, you should be safe. As for us, don''t worry. No one can stop us. Apart from the slight restriction on Mr. Shu�� J��ng, there''s no danger. Just follow the n," Princess Qi��ny��u said firmly.


    "Alright," G�� L��n sighed softly.


    G�� L��n knew that only two people could carry the W��nch��ng Treasured Mirror��either Princess Qi��ny��u or himself. Since Princess Qi��ny��u was to lead the pursuers away, he had to carry it.


    Then, Princess Qi��ny��u, along with �� D��, �� ��r, and Zh��ng Sh��n, headed west, while G�� L��n and Mr. Shu�� J��ng continued north, following their n.


    "Sir, do you think Y�� Y��n''s troops are already pursuing us to the north?" On the way, Princess Qi��ny��u asked Zh��ng Sh��n for confirmation.


    "Why ask when you already know the answer?" Zh��ng Sh��n, sitting on a white cloud, replied with a smile.


    "I just worry that Y�� Y��n''s troops might move at a slow and steady pace, waiting for us to slip up," Princess Qi��ny��u said with a smile.


    "Yes, Y�� Y��n''s greatest w is his excessive caution. Being overly cautious has its advantages and disadvantages. During thest battle at Misty Lake, he had the upper hand and could afford to act without caution for once. However, this time he is on the defensive, and he will undoubtedly maintain his cautious approach. As long as we stick to my n, we will certainly evade them and reach the safest location safely," Zh��ng Sh��n said with great confidence.

 Chapter 225: The Wisdom Returns to G菙 L铆n

    <h4>Chapter 225: The Wisdom Returns to G�� L��n</h4>


    Half an hourter, atop a mountain peak, stood Zh��ng Sh��n, Princess Qi��ny��u, �� D��, and �� ��r.


    "Sir, are you sure that setting a fire here to form the characters ''D�� Lu��'' will really work?" �� D�� questioned skeptically.


    "Yes, exactly. Previously, I exined to you by using an analogy��consider this tnd as a clock face with twelve directions. True north is the ''twelve o''clock'' direction. As you move clockwise, you have ''one o''clock'' through ''twelve o''clock''. The position we were in earlier was threatened by three cities, which are located at the ''twelve o''clock'', ''one o''clock'', and ''ten o''clock'' positions respectively. Now, all the soldiers from these three cities have spread out to search for us, leaving no gaps in their search grid," Zh��ng Sh��n exined.


    (The directions are described using the analogy of a clockid t, with twelve points.)


    "Understood," �� D�� nodded but still looked at Zh��ng Sh��n with some doubt.


    "If we set a fire here, it will quickly be seen by the soldiersing from the ''ten o''clock'' direction. Additionally, with a soldier we captured and tied to the mountain top as a witness, those soldiers will be drawn here. This way, we can avoid the soldiers from the ''ten o''clock'' city. Meanwhile, at Mr. Shu�� J��ng''s location, a volcano will be set alight, leaving clear signs. This will attract the soldiers from the ''one o''clock'' and ''twelve o''clock'' cities there, ensuring that the ''eleven o''clock'' direction remainspletely safe. Simrly, for Mr. Shu�� J��ng''s group, the ''two o''clock'' direction will also bepletely safe," Zh��ng Sh��n said with a smile.


    "When Y�� Y��n''s troops arrive, we will have already broken through the search perimeter of the three cities'' soldiers. They won''t be able to catch up with us. Once we''re beyond this area, we''ll bepletely safe," �� D�� said, looking at Zh��ng Sh��n with admiration.


    "Exactly. Once we''ve passed the most dangerous area, safety is assured," Zh��ng Sh��n affirmed with utmost confidence.


    "Alright, I''ll get to it right away," �� D�� said eagerly��


    In another ce, G�� L��n and Mr. Shu�� J��ng had also stopped atop a mountain peak.


    "Your Highness, this is the spot. I will set the fire, and then we can safely leave this area and bepletely out of danger," Mr. Shu�� J��ng said.


    "Wait," G�� L��n suddenly called out.


    "Your Highness, what is it?" Mr. Shu�� J��ng asked, puzzled.


    "You said that even if I don''t set the fire, Qi��ny��u will still be able to escape, right?" G�� L��n said with a cold smile on his lips.


    Mr. Shu�� J��ng felt a sudden tightness in his chest upon hearing G�� L��n''s words.


    "Yes, with Princess Qi��ny��u''s merging phase cultivation and the protection of �� D�� and �� ��r, they should be fine. However, Mr. Zh��ng Sh��n..." Mr. Shu�� J��ng looked at G�� L��n, uncertain and wary.


    "Then don''t set the fire. Qi��ny��u cares deeply for Zh��ng Sh��n; she won''t abandon him. Let her watch him die," G�� L��n said coldly, his eyes turning icy.


    Mr. Shu�� J��ng stared at G�� L��n in shock. This was highly unusual. How could the young prince have suddenly be so calcting?


    "Your Highness, you mustn''t! If anything goes wrong..." Mr. Shu�� J��ng hurriedly began to persuade.


    Turning his head, G�� L��n cast a cold nce at Mr. Shu�� J��ng and suddenly became incrediblyposed. "Shu�� J��ng, if you don''t want to be expelled from the Grand Xu��n Pce, then go ahead and light it."


    Seeing G�� L��n''s expression, Mr. Shu�� J��ng felt a chill run through him. His face showed extreme disbelief. What had happened? How did the young prince suddenly change? How did he know about my true intentions at the Grand Xu��n Pce?


    "Your Highness, have you... seeded?" Mr. Shu�� J��ng asked, his voice trembling with doubt.


    With a sinister smile, G�� L��n replied, "Indeed. Just now, Ipletely defeated the one who tried to possess me. My primary consciousness is now assimting his primordial spirit. Soon, I will be fully restored."


    "Congrattions, Your Highness," Mr. Shu�� J��ng immediately bowed in respect.


    "Never thought Qi��ny��u has be a princess all these years. I came out toote. But it doesn''t matter. What matters is my recovery. Engagement? Dissolving the marriage? No one can dissolve my engagement. Qi��ny��u belongs to me," G�� L��n said with a chilling expression.


    "Yes, Your Highness," Mr. Shu�� J��ng immediately responded.


    "Alright, let''s continue. We''ll go from the weakest point. Setting the fire will make that side absolutely safe, while not setting it will leave that side uncertain. But there''s a fifty percent chance we won''t encounter any troops from D�� Y��. I trust my luck," G�� L��n asserted confidently.


    "Yes," Mr. Shu�� J��ng nodded.


    Then, G�� L��n and Mr. Shu�� J��ng did not set the fire as Zh��ng Sh��n requested, but hurriedly shot towards the ''two o''clock'' direction��


    Y�� Y��n led his army slowly northward, waiting for reports from all sides.


    J��l�� W��ng was extremely anxious, but Y�� Y��n remained calm, instructing the army not to fly too hastily.


    At that moment, a streak of light shot from the northwest.


    J��l�� W��ng''s subordinate, W��''��n, quickly rushed forward and grabbed the streak of light.


    It was an arrow, shot by a master from a certain city. There was a message attached to the arrow.


    J��l�� W��ng eagerly opened it.


    "There, Princess Qi��ny��u has been spotted. She headed west!" J��l�� W��ng eximed excitedly.


    "No, something''s wrong!" Y�� Y��n suddenly eximed.


    "What''s wrong?" J��l�� W��ng asked in confusion.


    "Princess Qi��ny��u? How could she be discovered? And why would they set a fire after being discovered? They should have split into two or three groups," Y�� Y��n frowned, pondering.


    "Split into two groups? But where''s the other group?" J��l�� W��ng froze. What should they do now? Where is the Thousand City Treasure?


    "Yes, it must be two groups. And based on the terrain, if a fire was set in the west, then there should have been one set in the north as well. Why hasn''t there been any news from the north? Something''s not right," Y�� Y��n''s brow furrowed deeply.


    "General, which two directions are you talking about?" J��l�� W��ng asked anxiously.


    "Something''s off. Setting a fire in just one ce is pointless. Unless Zh��ng Sh��n isn''t in the northwest but rather went northeast. Yes, it must be that way," Y�� Y��n thought aloud.


    To Y�� Y��n, if Zh��ng Sh��n wasn''t at the eleven o''clock position, then an exnation could be made. If Zh��ng Sh��n wasn''t at the eleven o''clock position, then he must be at the two o''clock position.


    "J��l�� W��ng, you follow this road to chase after Princess Qi��ny��u. She must be going this way. I''ll lead another group to chase after the other route," Y�� Y��n pointed towards the eleven o''clock direction.


    "Understood!" J��l�� W��ng affirmed resolutely.


    "Wait," Y�� Y��n suddenly said.


    "What is it?" J��l�� W��ng asked, puzzled.


    "If you see Princess Qi��ny��u, do not harm her. And just in case, I say just in case, if Mr. Zh��ng Sh��n is there, bring him back," Y�� Y��n added a final contingency.


    "Don''t harm Princess Qi��ny��u?" J��l�� W��ng frowned.


    Now Y�� Y��n wanted to spare Qi��ny��u while before he wanted to kill her?


    "Yes, the situation has changed. Princess Qi��ny��u must not be harmed. Your task is simply to check if the Thousand City Treasure is there. Remember, if you see Mr. Zh��ng Sh��n, I request that J��l�� W��ng doesn''t harm him and brings him back," Y�� Y��n emphasized repeatedly. Although he was certain Zh��ng Sh��n had gone in another direction, it''s always good to prepare for contingencies.


    Narrowing his eyes and looking at Y�� Y��n, J��l�� W��ng smiled slightly. "Alright."


    "Well, they''ve already gone far. Now, you must chase after them as fast as possible," Y�� Y��n said.


    "Hmm," J��l�� W��ng nodded.


    "W�� ��n, you and I are both in the Imperial Supreme Realm. Let''s chase after them as fast as we can," J��l�� W��ng said to W�� ��n.


    "Yes," W�� ��n immediately responded.


    "Your Majesty, this humble monk is willing to apany you," Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n said.


    Seeing Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n, J��l�� W��ng''s eyes brightened. "Good, Master, I''ll rely on you. Let''s go."


    Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n nodded, and then J��l�� W��ng, Hu��gu��ng Lu��h��n, and W�� ��n disappeared in an instant, shooting towards the distance.


    Watching their departing figures, Y�� Y��n turned his head to look in the direction where Mr. Shu�� J��ng had gone.


    "Iron Blood, you and your men go ahead. I''ll catch upter," Y�� Y��n said.


    "Yes," Iron Blood immediatelyplied.


    Due to Y�� Y��n''s physical condition, his speed was definitely not enough��


    In a valley.


    Zh��ng Sh��n, Qi��ny��u, �� D��, and �� ��r stood silently. Not far from themy the body of a man dressed in armor.


    At this moment, the faces of the four were all grim.


    "Sir, what''s going on? How did troops end up here? If I hadn''t acted quickly just now, we would have beenpletely exposed," �� D�� said with surprise.


    Princess Qi��ny��u''s face darkened. �� ��r stood silently on the side.


    "They didn''t set the fire. These are troops from the twelve o''clock direction city," Zh��ng Sh��n frowned.


    "Why didn''t they set the fire? This G�� L��n!" Princess Qi��ny��u''s face was full of anger.


    "Without setting the fire, there''s nothing we can do. Your Highness, you should hurry and break through. By now, Y�� Y��n must have sent powerful individuals to pursue us, most likely Imperial Supreme Realm experts. As they fly, they will radiate their divine senses and will definitely discover us. You should hurry. Otherwise, they will catch up to us," Zh��ng Sh��n said with a furrowed brow.


    "We go? But what about you?" Princess Qi��ny��u stared at Zh��ng Sh��n.


    "I''ll find a mountain forest with miasma. With my g array, they won''t be able to detect me with their divine senses. Once they withdraw their troops, I''lle out to find you," Zh��ng Sh��n immediately said.


    Staring at Zh��ng Sh��n, Princess Qi��ny��u looked at him for a moment. "No, this route has few obstacles. What if troops enter the forest and search?"


    "These search troops won''t trouble me," Zh��ng Sh��n shook his head.


    Princess Qi��ny��u also believed that these troops wouldn''t trouble Zh��ng Sh��n. But how could she allow these troops to capture Zh��ng Sh��n and then hand him over to Y�� Y��n? Although Zh��ng Sh��n would be unharmed, he wouldn''t be hers anymore.


    "Sir, please stop talking. I won''t leave you behind," Princess Qi��ny��u shook her head.


    Zh��ng Sh��n naturally understood Princess Qi��ny��u''s n. With a wry smile, he said, "Alright, then let''s change our appearances again."

 Chapter 226: Evildoers must be punished

    <h4>Chapter 226: Evildoers must be punished</h4>


    Disguising themselves wasn''t going to work.


    At this moment, in the Da Yu Empire, over a dozen cities in the vicinity had entered a state of war readiness. No one was allowed to leave the cities, and everyone''s identities had to be verified.


    Outside the cities, arge number of soldiers rushed in all directions. The various sects received the message and were instructed not to admit anyone or let anyone leave. Officials were dispatched to verify identities.


    Any scattered individuals were brought to designated gathering ces and could only be released after their identities were confirmed.


    Princess Qianyou, A Da, A Er, and Zhong Shan were flying close to the ground because flying too high would attract too much attention. Once spotted, they would be targets.


    "Why don''t we hide first and then continueter?" A Da asked.


    "We can''t hide. There''s a specific procedure for the search. When you killed that soldier just now, we must have been exposed. Because if a soldier doesn''t report for a certain period, it will definitely arouse suspicion. Instead of waiting to be caught, we should break out quickly," Princess Qianyou said.


    Swoosh!


    A red light shot from afar, heading straight towards the group on the white clouds.


    A Da stood at the front and grabbed the breaking-through Qi arrow within the red light, stopping the white clouds.


    In the distance, there was a team of a dozen soldiers. The arrow just now was shot by them. A Da was about to take action.


    Zhong Shan put his hand on A Da''s shoulder.


    "Who goes there?" one of the soldiers shouted from afar.


    "We are merchants from Wan Cheng, just returned from the Sky City, and now we''re heading back," Zhong Shan blocked them and said.


    "Wan Cheng?" one of the soldiers frowned.


    Wan Cheng was the city directly north of their location.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "There''s a state of war readiness now. You few,e with us," the soldier said.


    Because Zhong Shan and the others were riding white clouds and had cultivators above the Yuan Ying Realm, the soldiers didn''t make things difficult for them.


    "Alright!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    Then, two soldiers rode flying swords towards the north, while Zhong Shan and the others followed closely on the white clouds.


    Standing on the white clouds, Zhong Shan stood at the front and signaled for A Da to drive the clouds.


    Along the way, they saw arge number of searching soldiers, bing more and more frequent. However, with the guidance of these two soldiers, the journey became much smoother.


    "I wonder where you two are taking us?" Zhong Shan smiled and asked.


    "To the main camp ahead, where there are people specifically verifying your identities. After the verification, you can stay in the main camp and wait for the end of the state of war readiness," the soldier said.


    Hearing the soldier''s words, Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes. Verification? They couldn''t be verified because nobody intentionally probed their identities in the Sky City. But when they were checked in the military camp, with a single probe of divine sense, their disguises would be exposed. Many people must have already learned the appearances of their group.


    "By the way, how far is the main camp from here?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "We''re almost there, about the time it takes for two incense sticks to burn," the soldier said.


    Nodding, Zhong Shan gave A Da a nce.


    In a valley.


    Boom! Boom!


    Two muffled sounds, and two soldiers fell to the ground.


    "Don''t hurt them, just knock them out. Strip them of their clothes. A Da, A Er, find two more soldiers and take their clothes," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes," A Da immediately responded.


    Then, the four quickly changed into military uniforms.


    They continued to rush towards the eleven o''clock direction.


    Soon, they flew to a ce parallel to Wan Cheng. It wouldn''t be long before theypletely escaped this area. However, Zhong Shan didn''t ck off at all because the closer to the end, the more dangerous it became.


    Ahead was another ind sea. Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up, and they submerged under the sea.


    Swoosh...


    Just as they were preparing to dive into the sea, a row of red lights suddenly shot from afar. Breaking-through Qi arrows.


    However, these red lights weren''t aimed at them but rather in front of them, blocking their path.


    Zhong Shan turned his head to see a group of thirty-some archers standing on a mountain peak not far away. One of the soldiers descended on a flying sword.


    "People found!" the soldier suddenly shouted.


    "Attack!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    He hadn''t expected a low-ranking soldier here to be so astute. It also showed the strict discipline of the Da Yu army.


    A Da took action. His movements were so fast that Zhong Shan didn''t even see clearly. In an instant, along with the soldier, the thirty-some archers all fell. However, it was still a bit slow. The Sky-Piercing Arrow exploded suddenly in the high sky, illuminating the surroundings.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan said without hesitation.


    The white clouds rose again, and the four swiftly flew onwards. If it weren''t for Zhong Shan, Princess Qianyou and the others could have flown with the wind directly, several times faster. But now, to bring Zhong Shan along, they could only ride the white clouds, significantly reducing their speed.


    Swoosh...


    From all directions, arge number of Breaking-through Qi arrows shot towards them.


    The Breaking-through Qi arrows were like locusts filling the sky, directly aiming at them on the white clouds. Seeing this scene, A Da''s figure flickered, and a huge spherical Qi shield suddenly appeared around them.


    Boom...


    Countless Breaking-through Qi arrows were blocked, but A Da''s shield was shattered.


    A Da was strong, and his shield was powerful. Although the Breaking-through Qi arrows were powerful, they weren''t enough to threaten A Da. However, there were just too many Breaking-through Qi arrows. One arrow wasn''t enough, a hundred arrows weren''t enough, but eventually, they would break through his shield.


    A Da could leave in an instant, and even ten thousand swords couldn''t touch him. But what about Zhong Shan?


    On the sea, Zhong Shan stopped in the center, and Princess Qianyou''s eyes were filled with uncertainty. If she wanted to escape, although it would be difficult, it wasn''t impossible. But what about Zhong Shan? Leave Zhong Shan behind? No, absolutely not!


    At this moment, Zhong Shan saw from afar arge number of people holding Breaking-through Qi arrows and flying over in a surrounding formation. Among them was a general, his face filled with excitement as if he had caught a big fish.


    "Yu Jiang, Initial Unity stage, Da Yu General," Princess Qianyou said.


    Initial Unity stage? Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes.


    "Haha, Princess Qianyou!" Suddenly, aughter echoed from the sky.


    Zhong Shan followed the voice and looked into the distance. Three ck dots appeared in the sky, and in the next moment, they arrived in front of them, turning into three men.


    It was King Julu, Monk Huiguang, and another man Zhong Shan didn''t recognize.


    Seeing A Da and A Er on guard, Zhong Shan understood that all three of them were probably at the Sovereign Transformation stage.


    "Pay respects to King Julu!" The soldiers respectfully greeted.


    "Well, you guys did well," King Julu praised generously.


    "Princess Qianyou, what are you doing? Why are you wearing the uniform of my Da Yu army? Are you trying to defect to Da Yu?" King Julu chuckled.


    Since they had been recognized, Princess Qianyou didn''t want to hide anymore. She flipped her hand and removed her disguise.


    Zhong Shan also noticed that when Huiguang approached, he kept casting cold nces at Princess Qianyou. Why was Huiguang acting like this? Zhong Shan immediately thought of the banquet set up by Master Yixu. The sudden change in Great Mercy Dragon Bodhisattva''s aura meant that Yixu had sessfully set up Huiguang''s hatred towards Princess Qianyou. Whatever the reason for the hatred, the situation had be precarious.


    "Why is King Julu here?" Princess Qianyou quickly stabilized her mind and asked.


    "Why? Humph, where is the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror?" King Julu red.


    "Hehe, King Julu has already seen that the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror is not with me," Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    "Is it with Gulin and Shuijing?" King Julu narrowed his eyes.


    "Hehe, I think King Julu could find us so quickly; it must be because of guidance from Master Yixu, right? And Master Yixu is currently pursuing Gulin and the others?" Princess Qianyou asked back.


    "So what?" King Julu squinted his eyes.


    "King Julu neglected his duty by losing the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror, while Master Yixu managed to retrieve it," Princess Qianyou smiled slyly.


    Although Princess Qianyou spoke casually, her words were filled with provocation.


    Sure enough, hearing Princess Qianyou''s words, King Julu narrowed his eyes, feeling even more resentful towards Master Yixu. Was it intentional on Master Yixu''s part? Did he intentionally let me chase after Princess Qianyou, while he retrieved the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror?


    "If the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror is not with me, what''s the use of King Julu blocking us? Do you still want to kill the envoy of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty?" Princess Qianyou changed her tone suddenly.


    However, King Julu wasn''t intimidated. Upon hearing Princess Qianyou''s words, he smiled faintly, "We just want to invite the princess back. Oh, and the Commander-in-Chief wants to see one of your subordinates, Zhong Shan!"


    Hearing King Julu''s words, Princess Qianyou''s heart tightened. Sure enough, they were going to capture Zhong Shan.


    "Nn Emperor and Great Mercy Dragon Bodhisattva fought a fierce battle in the Surging Waves Sea. Isn''t King Julu worried that someone might secretly manipte the situation? Now that powerful figures from the imperial court are chasing after us, what if something happens to them? Besides, does King Julu need to obey Master Yixu?" Princess Qianyou stared at King Julu and smiled.


    Hearing Princess Qianyou''s words, King Julu''s pupils contracted, "Since I''ve already chased after you, the princess should give me some face. Once the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror is retrieved, I will personally escort the princess out of Da Yu."


    King Julu''s words were very polite, but his face had already darkened. Princess Qianyou being taken back would be eptable, even if the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror was lost, it could be exchanged for her.


    "King Julu, there''s no need to say more. A Da, A Er, it''s up to you now. Princess Qianyou, let me help King Julu subdue you," Huiguang said.


    "Huiguang, do you want to antagonize the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty against the Pure Land of Bliss?" Princess Qianyou red.


    "Humph, the grudge between the Heavenly Dynasty and the Holy Land started from your poisoning. The Bodhisattva was injured to save me. Today, the grudge can''t be med on me anymore." Huiguang was angry.


    Having said that, without waiting for King Julu to speak again, Huiguang took the initiative and reached out to grab Princess Qianyou.

 Chapter 227 - 227 Zhong Shan carries a sword with his sword

    <h4>Chapter 227: Zhong Shan carries a sword with his sword</h4>


    The Arhat of Wisdom made the first move. This was to prevent the Deer King from dragging things out any longer. Besides seeking vengeance for past grievances, the Arhat was also concerned about the formidable power of the Dragon Buddha of the Stormy Sea. They had to resolve this quickly and return, hoping that in case of any mishap, they could still offer some assistance.


    With a swift palm strike, the Arhat conjured a massive golden palm in the void, hurtling straight towards Princess Qianyou.


    Ahead, Ada stepped up, fists raised towards the sky.


    This time, Ada didn''t hold back at all. With fists thrust forward, a resplendent tiger phantom charged towards the heavens.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~"


    "Boom~~~~~~~~"


    The tiger shed with the giant palm, unleashing a surging airflow in all directions. The sea below sank by over ten meters, and beyond a kilometer in diameter, a massive circr wave surged out.


    The soldiers rushing in from all sides were blown away by this forceful gust. However, Princess Qianyou protected Zhongshan, swiftly darting downwards.


    The generals surrounding Zhongshan, led by Yujiang, gestured to their subordinates, and arge number of soldiers quickly retreated towards the distance. Here were only powerhouses, the strongest of the strong; they had no ce in this fight.


    In the split second when the Arhat made his move, the Deer King''s eyes shed with anger. But in the next moment, they lit up with cunning. If E Yan said they couldn''t harm Princess Qianyou, what about the Arhat? If the Arhat killed Princess Qianyou, wouldn''t that incur the wrath of the Holy Land and the Celestial Empire? That would still be a significant aplishment for him.


    With this thought, a wicked smile crept onto the Deer King''s lips. "Wu''an, stop A''er!"


    "Yes," Wu''an, a subordinate brought by the Deer King, immediately responded.


    Seeing the Deer King''s move, the Arhat narrowed his eyes. Though he was a bit impatient, he could still see through the Deer King''s petty tricks. Unlike E Yan, the Deer King''s intelligence wasn''t as inscrutable, making his schemes rtively easy to discern.


    The Arhat likewise revealed a sly smile, unperturbed, and continued his pursuit of Princess Qianyou.


    As the Arhat dashed downwards, Ada stood in his path, but suddenly, another figure appeared before Ada: the Deer King.


    Simrly, before A''er, another of the Deer King''s subordinates, Wu''an, suddenly appeared.


    "Bang~~~~~~~~"


    Princess Qianyou descended into the sea along with Zhongshan.


    Underwater, Zhongshan saw a radiant glow above. Ada, A''er, the Deer King, and Wu''an were all unleashing their attacks on the sea''s surface. It seemed as if a thousand waves were rolling on the ocean''s surface. Even as Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou descended rapidly, they could feel the underwater turbulence caused by the fierce battle above.


    They felt the towering waves rushing upwards, while they descended against the current. Simultaneously, a vast amount of seawater from all directions surged towards their location.


    The four formidable warriors confronted each other on the sea''s surface, while beneath the sea, apart from Princess Qianyou and Zhongshan, two others pursued them: the vengeful Arhat of Wisdom and the Fish General in the early stages of fusion.


    With a cold smirk, the Arhat descended straight down, while the Fish General opted for a more leisurely approach, waiting to reap the rewards.


    As they sank to the seabed, Zhongshan''s heart was filled with worry, not just for himself but also for Princess Qianyou. If they failed, what would happen?


    Zhongshan remained unusually calm. He had already considered everything that needed to be considered. The Red Phoenix Mist? No good. Dealing with these people would require them to be extremely careless, and with the Arhat leading the charge and the Fish General waiting to take advantage, how could they afford to be careless?


    "Arhat of Wisdom, we''ve already dispatched people to the Stormy Sea. The Dragon Buddha of the Great Mighty Waves will surely be unharmed. If the princess dies, you''ll be the cause of enmity between the Holy Land and the Celestial Empire," Zhongshan shouted.


    "Unharmed?" The Arhat of Wisdom narrowed his eyes. His momentum faltered.


    If what Zhongshan said was true, he didn''t want to be a sinner in the Pure Land of Bliss.


    Seeing the Arhat falter, Zhongshan felt a surge of joy. Just moments ago, as the Arhat charged down, the pressure forced Princess Qianyou and himself into the depths of the sea, rendering them immobile. If he, under such circumstances, could not move, then the pressure the Arhat exerted on Princess Qianyou could well be imagined.


    The surrounding seawater had already been forced back by the Arhat''s momentum.


    The Arhat hesitated. Good, hesitation was good.


    Just as Zhongshan was about to say something more, the Arhat waved his hand, and suddenly, a dark golden mist emerged from his palm. Within the mist, a shadowy silhouette resembling a silkworm faintly appeared.


    The Arhat''s eyes narrowed, and with a flick of his hand...


    "Bang~~~~~~~~"


    A surge of air pushed Zhongshan away, exposing Princess Qianyou directly in front of the Arhat. The dark golden mist surged towards her.


    "Wisdom, you''re courting death!" Zhongshan shouted.


    Under the tremendous pressure, Princess Qianyou couldn''t move. The dark golden mist swiftly invaded her body at the Arhat''s behest.


    "Spurt~~~~~~~~"


    Princess Qianyou spat out a mouthful of blood, her face suddenly darkening. At this moment, Zhongshan, who had been blown away, suddenly regained mobility, as if the Arhat''s momentum hadpletely dissipated.


    The seawater surged forth, and Zhongshan quickly rushed towards Princess Qianyou.


    Under the overwhelming pressure, Princess Qianyou swayed as if about to be knocked over by the rushing seawater.


    Without time for further thought, Zhongshan caught the swaying Princess Qianyou.


    "Princess~~~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, Ada''s voice rang out from above the sea. Though the four were engaged in battle on the surface, their consciousnesses were still focused below.


    The waves grew even stronger, and the underwater battle intensified.


    Zhongshan held the Princess, whose face was now tinged with ck. He looked at the Arhat with suspicion.


    At this moment, Zhongshan once again realized the absolute power disparity. In the face of absolute power, intelligence seemed so feeble. The Arhat of Wisdom could now decide life and death.


    Zhongshan shielded himself and Princess Qianyou with his Qi. Princess Qianyou''s mouth oozed with blood, her eyes fixed coldly on the Arhat, brimming with hatred.


    "The Buddha said I couldn''t kill you, but I can use your own methods against you, Princess Qianyou. Last time, you injected me with the Great Luo Mist. This time, let''s taste the ''Polluted Divine Silkworm'' of the Pure Land of Bliss. The Polluted Divine Silkworm is also one of the world''s most toxic substances. Unless purified with the Snow Lotus of the Pure World or cultivated to the level of the Buddha, it will either require vast amounts of Qi to dispel or result in death. Regardless of whether you send someone to save the Buddha or not, you''re the cause of poisoning me, so there will inevitably be consequences," the Arhat said coldly.


    Princess Qianyou suddenly seemed extremely weak, but her eyes remained coldly fixed on the Arhat, filled with fury.


    The Arhat gave a cold smile. "I forgot to mention, there are only three Snow Lotuses in the world now. No, the one belonging to the Buddha was swallowed by the Ghost King not long ago, so there are only two left."


    With that, the Arhat turned and flew away, quickly soaring out of the sea, casting a cold nce at the Deer King.


    Trying to frame me? The Arhat felt a sense of satisfaction as he shot off into the distance.


    As the Arhat departed, the Deer King chuckled. The Arhat was truly clever.


    "Fish General, capture Princess Qianyou and take her to the Sky City. Let everyone know that the Arhat of Wisdom poisoned Princess Qianyou to death," the Deer King ordered, while simultaneously preventing Ada from diving into the sea.


    Surely enough, the fisherman alwaysughsst.


    With a hint of excitement, the Fish General shot downwards.


    At this moment, Princess Qianyou, poisoned and seemingly weakened, was no match for Zhongshan.


    However, the most triumphant moments were often the most dangerous.


    Princess Qianyou fell into Zhongshan''s arms, and he pushed his palm upwards.


    A blue light sphere shot up, and the Fish General''s heart skipped a beat. He swung hisrge sword towards the blue light sphere.


    "Whoosh"


    The blue light sphere split in half��or so it seemed. In reality, it hadn''t even been touched. Like a phantom, it passed through therge sword and, oddly, expanded rapidly, enveloping the Fish General inside like a fish bubble.


    The Fish General was trapped.


    Frustration filled the Fish General''s heart. He swung hisrge sword wildly at the blue bubble, but the sphere trembled incessantly, as if on the verge of breaking at any moment.


    "The Forbidden God Sphere? The Fish General is already in the Fusion Period; it won''t hold him for long," the Deer King eximed excitedly from the sea surface.


    "Master, you should leave," Princess Qianyou said with a bitter smile.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan clenched his fists. Leave? Could Zhongshan leave now?


    "No, Princess, it''s my fault you''re in this state. I must take you away," Zhongshan said firmly.


    "No, it''s my own stubbornness. I didn''t want to lose you. It''s not your fault. Heaven may forgive sinners, but self-inflicted suffering is intolerable. Master, please leave quickly. I can summon a tiger in the Fusion Period as ast resort. Even if I die, I won''t be a pawn in their conspiracy," Princess Qianyou said with a bitter smile.


    Summon? Zhongshan''s eyes lit up. Yes, when he signed the Wolf Pact, it was said that ten generations of descendants could be summoned. Could Princess Qianyou be summoned too?


    "Summon? After summoning, will your poisoning worsen?" Zhongshan immediately asked.


    "It''s toote. At most, I canst ten days, but I won''t make it back to Daluo to find someone to dispel the poison. I can only use thirty percent of my former strength, and it''s constantly being corrupted. If I don''t summon now, I won''t even have a chance to die. I never thought I, Qianyou, woulde to this," Princess Qianyou said with a bitter smile.


    Above, the Fish General was about to break through the Forbidden God Sphere. Princess Qianyou extended her hand, preparing to summon the tiger.


    At that moment, Zhongshan, holding Princess Qianyou, grabbed her right hand about to cast the spell.


    "Princess, can you trust me?" Zhongshan stared at Princess Qianyou with utmost seriousness.


    Looking into Zhongshan''s eyes, for some reason, Princess Qianyou forgot her earlier sorrow. Instinctively, she nodded at Zhongshan.


    "Good, take out your weapon. I''ll hold your hand and swing it," Zhongshan said firmly.


    Princess Qianyou was somewhat incredulous, but she still took out a long sword and ced her right hand, which Zhongshan held, on the hilt. Zhongshan was extremely focused, staring at the sky, at the Forbidden God Sphere where the Fish General was.


    "I''ll swing, and you activate the sword with all your might. Sess or failure lies in this one move," Zhongshan said with determination. Zhongshan was going to wield his sword with his life on the line.


    "It''s useless. My Qi is now only at the Infant Transformation Period, and I can''t harm the Fish General at all, let alone break the Forbidden God Sphere," Princess Qianyou shook her head, her eyes filled with sadness.


    "Trust me!" Zhongshan whispered gently in Princess Qianyou''s ear.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s resolute eyes and hearing the voice that stayed by her side even in death, Princess Qianyou, for some reason, suddenly smiled and nodded gently.

 Chapter 228: Heavenly Slash! Wave Cutter!

    <h4>Chapter 228: Heavenly sh! Wave Cutter!</h4>


    In the eyes of the Fish General, Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou''s actions elicited a cold smirk. He had seen Zhongshan''s cultivation, merely at the Fourth Stage of the Golden Core Realm. And as for Princess Qianyou, at best, she possessed Infant Transformation Stage strength. Did they think they could harm him? Dream on!


    On the sea surface, Ah Da and Ah Er were already in a frenzy, but this time, they had no more hidden cards to y. The Royal Extremity Realm; both the Deer King and Wu''an were at the Royal Extremity Realm cultivation. Dragging them down, they couldn''t descend. Did they want to bring the battle below?


    Princess Qianyou''s mana grew weaker and weaker. She copsed into Zhongshan''s arms, only able to move her arms slightly and exert all her remaining mana through her arms.


    Zhongshan''s mouth was close to Princess Qianyou''s ear, one hand embracing her, the other gripping her right hand. His arm swung slowly, his eyes fixed firmly on the sea water in front of the Forbidden God Sphere. Zhongshan was searching for the patterns in the water. He was intensely focused.


    Suddenly, Zhongshan''s pupils contracted. The hand gripping Princess Qianyou''s right hand moved.


    "Activate the sword," Zhongshan whispered gently. As he spoke, his lips brushed against Princess Qianyou''s earlobe.


    Zhongshan didn''t notice it because his mind was too absorbed, but Princess Qianyou felt it. The ears were the most sensitive part, and the touch of Zhongshan''s moist lips made her nerves tremble involuntarily, her face flushing red. But she still exerted her utmost strength to activate the sword. As for where the sword was directed, Princess Qianyou herself didn''t know.


    At the moment when Princess Qianyou swung the sword with all her might, Zhongshan suddenly unleashed the Heavenly Demonic Essence, pouring all his mana into the long sword. Only when both of them infused mana simultaneously would the sword strike without deviation.


    Heavenly sh! Wave Cutter!


    With the sword as his de, he shed towards the sky. When the sword struck, there was no aura spraying out. The huge sword radiance, nearly two hundred meters long, was still a considerable distance from the Forbidden God Sphere, and not even the surrounding seawater was forced aside by the strike.


    The Fish General instinctively wanted tough. What kind of rubbish sword technique was this?


    But in the instant he had the thought ofughter, he suddenly felt an extremely dangerous sensation in his heart.


    Because in that moment, Princess Qianyou''s long sword was already pointing at him. At the tip of the sword radiance, countless seawaters suddenly fled frantically to both sides, as if fleeing from a gue god. How was this possible? Fleeing?


    Incredibly, for a moment, the entire ocean seemed to have turned into an iceberg. Under a tremendous force, a crack extended from one end of the iceberg to the other, as if a huge cloth had been torn open from afar, and the tear rushed towards him at a terrifying speed.


    The seawater parted. From where Princess Qianyou''s long sword was, the seawater split crazily, as if fleeing from something dreadful. This part of the ocean seemed to have been inexplicably split apart.


    The crack tore through the Forbidden God Sphere. The vast force tore through that area, ripping it apart.


    "Crack!"


    With just a sound, a cloud of blood mist exploded. The Forbidden God Sphere split in half, and the Fish General inside was also split in half, leaving only a terrified blue soul.


    The tearing of the seawater didn''t stop; it continued all the way to the sea surface, where a huge tearing force surged up, causing endless seawater to rise into the sky.


    "Boom!"


    The fighting on the sea surface suddenly stopped. Ah Da, Ah Er, the Deer King, and Wu''an all looked incredulously at the huge crack in the sea, the countless seawaters continuously filling the crack.


    In an instant, the crack torn open by Princess Qianyou''s sword was filled. But the power of that one strike was deeply embedded in everyone''s hearts. What state was Princess Qianyou in? What cultivation level did Zhongshan possess? Zhongshan was filled with incredulity. How was such a thing possible?


    Princess Qianyou also widened her eyes, looking at her right hand, which was still held in Zhongshan''s palm. Did she swing this? How was that possible? What was her current strength? She knew very well. And Zhongshan''s infusion of energy into the long sword was also clear. It was unreasonable, it shouldn''t have happened!


    All sides fell silent, only the Fish General''s panicked soul fled upwards.


    It was terrifying. Princess Qianyou was too terrifying. In the instant the Fish General rushed out of the sea, Ah Da came to his senses and pped the soul of the Fish General, extinguishing it. Then, he shot down and appeared beside Zhongshan.


    Ah Er did the same, descending rapidly, followed by Wu''an and the Deer King.


    Another stalemate.


    "Deer King, do you know why the Radiant Arhat is in such a hurry to go back?" Zhongshan shouted.


    The Deer King sneered coldly. Why was the Radiant Arhat going back? Of course, the Deer King knew. The Radiant Arhat''s purpose was merely to poison and then return to watch the battle.


    "What super treasure does the Sacred Land of Pure Bliss have that even the mighty Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva dares to fight with damaged energy? Youe out to chase after me, while the Radiant Arhat holds a super treasure. The Nan Emperor is in danger!" Zhongshan shouted.


    Zhongshan was also just talking nonsense. As long as he could scare them, it didn''t matter if it was true or not.


    "The princess only has ten days left to live. What if you stop us? Moreover, can you stop us? With Ah Da and Ah Er holding you back, I can take the princess away." Zhongshan said immediately.


    Sure enough, Ah Da and Ah Er stood in front of Zhongshan immediately. The Deer King suddenly became uncertain.


    Zhongshan kept shouting, "The Nan Emperor won''t die, but in case he does, who has the highest prestige in the Great Yu Dynasty? With one call, who will be the new emperor?"


    It was Yi Yan, it must be Yi Yan. Even if Yi Yan was dying of illness, the anger in the Deer King''s heart had already been ignited.


    "Fine, only ten days. Princess, take care of yourself," the Deer King said.


    Then, the Deer King, with Wu''an, turned and rushed back to the sea, hastily returning to the Sky Shocking Sea.


    With the enemies gone, Zhongshan breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Princess, don''t worry, with me here, you''ll be fine!" Zhongshan immediately reassured Princess Qianyou, who now looked even paler.


    Looking at Zhongshan, Princess Qianyou weakly smiled, then looked at Ah Da and Ah Er.


    "Ah Da, Ah Er, while I''m unconscious, listen to everything Mr. Zhong says," Princess Qianyou said weakly.


    "Yes," the two immediately replied.


    Satisfied, Princess Qianyou suddenly fainted.


    Seeing the princess faint, Zhongshan''s heart tightened. He needed to find a ce as soon as possible.


    "Ah Da, Ah Er, take us west now, hurry west. Be careful," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," Ah Da and Ah Er replied��


    One dayter, in a dense forest.


    An outer g formation made outsiders'' divine senses pass over it directly.


    Inside, Ah Da and Ah Er stood anxiously as Zhongshan held Princess Qianyou.


    After running for a day, Zhongshan finally felt safe. He rested here in this miasma-infested forest.


    "Mr. Zhong, what should we do? The princess''s divine consciousness and soul have all been tainted by the Wicked God Golden Silkworm. In nine days, the princess will die from exhaustion of her soul." Ah Da said anxiously.


    Zhongshan took a deep breath and then beckoned, summoning a huge sedan chair in front of everyone.


    It was arge sedan chair carried by sixteen people. Zhongshan had prepared it on Tiang Ind to go and pick up Tian Ling''er, but unexpectedly, he used it here.


    Gently lifting Princess Qianyou onto the sedan chair, it felt like a smallfortable room inside, with very cozy furnishings.


    "You two, don''te in. Keep watch around, don''t disturb, and don''t use divine senses to probe," Zhongshan instructed the two.


    "Yes," they immediately responded.


    Then the two exited, but Zhongshan still felt it wasn''t safe. He set up a formation outside the sedan chair, isting divine senses and sound.


    Ah Da and Ah Er exchanged a nce but didn''t say anything.


    Inside the sedan chair, Zhongshan looked at Princess Qianyou, feeling full of sighs. Princess Qianyou was like this because of him. If it weren''t for wanting to take him away, she might have already joined Gu Lin and Shui Jing.


    Turning his hand, Zhongshan gently took out his World-Purifying Snow Lotus.


    It was such a coincidence that there were only three World-Purifying Snow Lotuses in the world, and he actually had one. Zhongshan didn''t know one thing though: the Wicked God Golden Silkworm was actually a poison created because of the World-Purifying Snow Lotus. If the Great Strength Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva didn''t have the World-Purifying Snow Lotus, he wouldn''t have this poison. It was precisely because of this that the Radiant Arhat used this strange poison on Princess Qianyou.


    Although Zhongshan didn''t fully understand the uses of the World-Purifying Snow Lotus, he knew the basic activation. cing it above Princess Qianyou''s head, he activated it.


    "Hum����"


    A gentle white light flowed into Princess Qianyou''s body.


    At this moment, above the white light, it seemed like a dark golden silkworm, writhing frantically.


    "Crack����"


    The silkworm exploded, turning into arge amount of dark golden energy covering Princess Qianyou again. Zhongshan continued to activate it, and the dark golden energy slowly disappeared bit by bit. However, the speed was too slow. Obviously, it wouldn''t be cleaned uppletely in a short time��


    While Zhongshan was detoxifying, in the Shocking Wave Sea, Emperor Nan and the Great Strength Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva were still battling. The Shocking Wave Sea had already dried up, cracks appearing everywhere below, and at this moment, the two were fighting in the sky.


    The Deer King and the Radiant Arhat stood together, looking up at the sky.


    Just then, the Radiant Arhat suddenly widened his eyes, waved his hand, and released another dark golden breath, within which was the shadow of a silkworm writhing in pain. In an instant, the silkworm dissipated.


    The Radiant Arhat took out the "Wicked God Golden Silkworm," and the Deer King became alert.


    "What''s wrong?" The Deer King immediately asked at the Radiant Arhat''s astonishment.


    "When the Bodhisattva refined the Wicked God Golden Silkworm, there were originally a pair. If a strong person expels it, the two won''t be affected, but if purified with the World-Purifying Snow Lotus, the other one will definitely be affected and dissipate along with it," the Radiant Arhat exined, widening his eyes.


    "What do you mean?" The Deer King had a bad premonition.


    "Does Princess Qianyou also have a World-Purifying Snow Lotus? She purified one of the Wicked God Golden Silkworms," the Radiant Arhat said.

 Chapter 229:Retiring and Returning to Hometown

    <h4>Chapter 229:Retiring and Returning to Hometown</h4>


    "Wait, what?" The Deer King eximed.


    "Princess Qianyou was saved," the Radiant Arhat said angrily.


    "You mean Princess Qianyou has recovered?" The Deer King asked worriedly.


    "Recovered? Not necessarily. Even with the World-Purifying Snow Lotus, it takes a hundred days to fully recover, because you have to continuously expel the residual wicked energy. Right now, Princess Qianyou should be even weaker than an ordinary person, unable to perform any spells. She can only persist in using the World-Purifying Snow Lotus to gradually expel the wickedness and slowly restore her strength," the Radiant Arhat said coldly.


    "A hundred days? Now they''ve escaped the heavy surveince area. A hundred days is just a matter of time," the Deer King shook his head.


    "No, Your Highness. Although the Wicked God Golden Silkworm has been purified, the residual poison on Princess Qianyou''s body won''t disappear within a hundred days," the Radiant Arhat said, smiling at the Deer King.


    "What do you mean?" The Deer King frowned.


    "Your Highness, use your divine sense to feel this poison," the Radiant Arhat handed the dark golden poison mist to the Deer King.


    The Deer King probed with his divine sense and suddenly widened his eyes.


    "This poison is so potent!" The Deer King eximed.


    "Yes, I sealed this poison using a special method. Your Highness, do you know? Not only can this poison continue to harm Princess Qianyou for a hundred days, but also, as long as anyone''s divine sense passes through her vicinity within ten meters, their divine sense will be contaminated. Although they won''t be injured, at this moment, Princess Qianyou is like a huge pearl in the dark night, unique. If Your Highness wants to find Princess Qianyou, it will be extremely easy. And now with Princess Qianyou and Zhongshan as burdens, the four of them won''t get far," the Radiant Arhat said.


    Hearing what the Radiant Arhat said, the Deer King narrowed his eyes. He looked at the Radiant Arhat unexpectedly but seemed to have been hinted at and didn''t say more.


    At this time, another group of people rushed over from afar. It was the Grand Commander Yi Yan.


    The Deer King immediately went forward and asked, "Grand Commander, did you get the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror?"


    Yi Yan looked at the Deer King and shook his head, "Master Shui Jing and Gu Lin were lucky. They managed to escape."


    Hearing Yi Yan''s words, the Deer King''s heart moved, nodded without saying more, and looked back at the sky to watch the battle��


    Three dayster.


    In a valley, Master Shui Jing and Gu Lin were waiting quietly.


    "Prince, Princess Qianyou probably doesn''t want toe," Master Shui Jing said, shaking his feather fan.


    "Hehe, it''s normal for girls to have a temper. Since Zhongshan is dead, she definitely won''te to join us. She''ll go back on her own. Let''s go. With Ah Da and Ah Er, we don''t need to worry about them," Gu Lin said with a slight smile.


    "Yes," Master Shui Jing nodded��


    In the Heavenly City, inside the imperial pce, in a side hall.


    Yi Yan, Emperor Nan Piaoxue, and the Deer King gathered again.


    "Your Majesty, why didn''t you just kill the Great Strength Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva?" Yi Yan regretted.


    "Kill? Didn''t you see the seven words on the cliff?" Emperor Nan Piaoxue said.


    "Seven words? Those seven words must have been left by Zhongshan. Only he could do such shameless things," Yi Yan said anxiously.


    The seven words left by Zhongshan were ''Shameless! Taking advantage of others'' crisis.'' Indeed, at thest moment, he saved the Great Strength Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva.


    "Grand Commander, His Majesty defeated the Great Strength Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva. This is something worth celebrating. Why do you always look so grim?" the Deer King said from the side.


    "Win? No, Your Majesty lost, the entire Great Yu Empire lost," Yi Yan shouted angrily.


    "Yi Yan! What do you mean?" Emperor Nan Piaoxue shouted angrily.


    "Your Majesty, it''s like this..." The Deer King recounted the events of Yi Yan poisoning the Radiant Arhat, seizing the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror from Princess Qianyou.


    "You, you actually disobeyed my orders again. No wonder the Great Strength Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva couldn''t fight with all his strength, it was because of you," Emperor Nan Piaoxue was truly angry this time.


    "Your Majesty, I have a n to retrieve the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror," the Deer King suddenly said.


    "Oh?" Emperor Nan Piaoxue suddenly looked at the Deer King. Yi Yan also looked at the Deer King.


    "Princess Qianyou is definitely within the territory of the Great Yu Empire now, and she''s like a bright pearl. As long as our divine sense covers her, we''ll definitely find her. We just need to capture Princess Qianyou, and we can exchange her for the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror, as well as the World-Purifying Snow Lotus with Princess Qianyou," the Deer King said excitedly.


    "Right, as long as we capture Princess Qianyou, we''ll get back the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror," Emperor Nan Piaoxue nodded.


    "No, Your Majesty, absolutely not. Once our Great Yu Empire sends troops to search, it will definitely attract arge number of assassins to kill Princess Qianyou. We cannot bear this me," Yi Yan once again advised.


    "We''re just searching for Princess Qianyou. Princess Qianyou has been tainted by the ''Wicked God Golden Silkworm''. Even if she dies in the end, it will be attributed to the Pure Land of Bliss," the Deer King immediately defended.


    "But the Radiant Arhat has already publicly announced that Princess Qianyou has the World-Purifying Snow Lotus," Yi Yan said immediately.


    "Does she? The Radiant Arhat was ''talking nonsense''. Who will people believe at that time? How could Princess Qianyou possibly have the World-Purifying Snow Lotus? If the Great Yu Empire wants to be strong, we must obtain the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror to make our cities powerful and naturally strengthen our national power. Your Majesty, please give the order!" the Deer King said, then looked at Emperor Nan Piaoxue.


    "Okay, as you said," Emperor Nan Piaoxue nodded.


    The Deer King looked triumphant, but Yi Yan knelt down suddenly and said, "Your Majesty, absolutely not, this will lead the Great Yu Empire to irreparable disaster."


    Giving Yi Yan a cold look, Emperor Nan Piaoxue said, "Grand Commander, I have made up my mind. There''s no need to say more."


    Grand Commander? Yi Yan suddenly raised his head. Emperor Nan Piaoxue actually called him ''Grand Commander''? He used to call himself Yi Yan or a beloved minister, but ''Grand Commander''? Was he ordering himself? Was he doubting himself?


    Suddenly, Yi Yan felt a sense of destion. For the sake of the Great Yu Empire, for a lifetime ofbor, what was it all for?


    Looking at Emperor Nan Piaoxue, who looked extremely deste, Yi Yan said with a heavy heart, "Your Majesty, I have been feeling unwell recently. I request to resign from the position of Grand Commander and retire."


    Looking at Yi Yan, Emperor Nan Piaoxue narrowed his eyes and said, "Granted!"


    Granted!


    Yi Yan bowed three times to Emperor Nan Piaoxue, gently took out the seal of the Grand Commander, and ced it on the desk in front of Emperor Nan Piaoxue. Then he slowly left the hall, feeling extremely lonely and deste.


    After Yi Yan left, Emperor Nan Piaoxue let out a dryugh and said, "Grand Commander? From now on, the Great Yu Empire is under my sole control."


    Emperor Nan Piaoxue''s expression was extremely strange, and it was impossible to tell if he was angry, happy, sad, or joyful. Then he fell into a long silence.


    The Deer King was now filled with excitement. Yi Yan had left? Then who would take over as Grand Commander in the future? Me?


    Looking at Emperor Nan Piaoxue, who was drinking alone, the Deer King plucked up his courage and said, "Your Majesty, now that Yi Yan has resigned from the position of Grand Commander, who will take over? Your Majesty, please make a decision as soon as possible."


    Turning his head to look at the Deer King, Emperor Nan Piaoxue said coldly, "You go and coordinate the pursuit of Princess Qianyou."


    "Yes, but..." The Deer King seemed reluctant to let go of the position of Grand Commander.


    "Go!" Emperor Nan Piaoxue said.


    "Yes," the Deer King nodded and then left the hall. At the same time, doubts arose in his mind. Now that the position of Grand Commander was vacant, did His Majesty still intend to leave it vacant?


    At the summit of the high mountain, Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva looked at the Enlightened Arhat before him, his brows slightly furrowed.


    "Bodhisattva, Princess Qianyou also has the Clean World Snow Lotus," the Enlightened Arhat said.


    Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva took a deep breath and shook his head, "Enlightened One, you have caused a great trouble this time."


    "Bodhisattva, didn''t you say that to fight fire with fire? Princess Qianyou poisoned me, why can''t I poison her in return?" The Enlightened Arhat said stubbornly.


    "I have told you, the poison may not necessarily be from Princess Qianyou. On that day, the seven words on the mountain wall saved my life, and it may not be the poison from Princess Qianyou," Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva shook his head.


    "But it''s still possible, possible that Princess Qianyou poisoned me. Bodhisattva, on the day of the poisoning, I have no regrets," the Enlightened Arhat shook his head.


    "Sigh, what''s done is done. Enlightened One, from now on, you should cultivate on your own and stop following me," Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva sighed.


    The Enlightened Arhat immediately knelt down, "Bodhisattva, Enlightened One knows his mistake."


    "Let''s go, our fate hase to an end. You always follow me, but you will never be a true Bodhisattva. Go and temper yourself, and change your impatient temper," Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva said, shaking his head.


    The Enlightened Arhat kowtowed nine times to the Bodhisattva, "Bodhisattva, I have no regrets about poisoning that day. Bodhisattva, take care, I will definitely be a new Bodhisattva." With that, the Enlightened Arhat stood up firmly and flew away.


    Watching the Enlightened Arhat''s figure disappear, Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva sighed.


    Three dayster, inside the sedan chair. Zhongshan once again used the Clean World Snow Lotus to detoxify.


    During the detoxification process, Princess Qianyou''s eyshes twitched, but Zhongshan did not put away the Clean World Snow Lotus, as there were still many toxins to deal with.


    Slowly, Princess Qianyou opened her eyes.


    She happened to see a pure white light enveloping Zhongshan, making him appear divine and ethereal.


    Thinking she was dreaming, she closed her eyes, her eyshes trembling slightly, then opened them again.


    This time, she indeed saw Zhongshan, holding a pure white lotus flower in his hand.


    "Sir, is this... the Clean World Snow Lotus?" Princess Qianyou stared in disbelief.

 Chapter 230: Burdens! More Burdens!

    <h4>Chapter 230: Burdens! More Burdens!</h4>


    "Sir, is this the Clean World Snow Lotus?" Princess Qianyou asked in disbelief, her eyes widening.


    "Yes," Zhongshan nodded, showing no sign of concealment.


    "How many more secrets does Sir have that Qianyou doesn''t know about?" Princess Qianyou smiled as she gazed at Zhongshan.


    "Princess risked her life to protect Zhongshan and ensure his escape. Zhongshan is deeply grateful," Zhongshan said sincerely.


    "At that time, I merely didn''t want you to fall into Yi Yan''s hands. Even without my protection, you should have been fine, right?" Princess Qianyou said with a smile.


    "Why does the Princess say that? If you were unharmed, being captured wouldn''t have been a big issue for me. However, if you had died, would the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty have spared me? At the very least, assassins like Ah Da and Ah Er would constantly appear around me. Therefore, my gratitude is genuine," Zhongshan said with certainty.


    "You look so far ahead, Sir. Qianyou didn''t think that far at the time," Princess Qianyou''s eyes shone brightly withughter.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan smiled faintly and said, "Regardless, thank you for trusting me in the end."


    "Trust you?" Princess Qianyou suddenly felt her ears heat up. She remembered copsing into Zhongshan''s arms at the time, with his mouth close to her earlobe, a forbidden zone.


    "That strike of yours was truly formidable," Princess Qianyou said, trying to steady the slight panic in her heart.


    "It was just luck," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "It wasn''t luck. Youbined sword and de techniques. The energy I infused into the sword at that time had the power of a mid-stage Nascent Soul. The force you added was five times your usual strength. Even with perfect fusion, it wouldn''t exceed the power of ate-stage Nascent Soul. However, the damage caused by your strike was at least at the mid-stage Integration level, splitting the Fish General in half! Is this a technique you created yourself?" Princess Qianyou stared at Zhongshan.


    "Why do you think that?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "When I was in Wushuang City, I saw you swing the de once, causing a pond of water to flee. At that time, it wasn''t as strong, and your strike wasn''t as confident as now. It seemed like you were still in the initial creation stage. Now, it has be more mature," Princess Qianyou said.


    Watching Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan smiled slightly and did not answer. This Princess Qianyou was too smart!


    "Five times the strength, you must have used a secret technique. How are you feeling now?" Princess Qianyou asked with concern, knowing that such techniques often had side effects.


    "At that time, I put everything into one strike, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, allowing me to reach the fifth level of the Golden Core stage," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Fifth level of the Golden Core stage? Sir was already at the peak of the fourth level, just one step away. Congrattions, Sir," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes, one step closer!" Zhongshan said with a sense of nostalgia, feeling nearer to the Nascent Soul stage.


    "Sir, where am I now?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "In a miasma forest, and this is a bridal sedan chair," Zhongshan replied.


    "A bridal sedan chair?" Princess Qianyou asked in confusion. She couldn''t understand why Zhongshan had prepared a bridal sedan chair.


    "This was prepared for my wife," Zhongshan said after a moment''s thought.


    "Your wife?" Princess Qianyou''s eyebrows furrowed slightly, a hint of surprise shing in her eyes.


    "Yes, the one you metst time, Tian Ling''er," Zhongshan said, a nostalgic smile appearing on his face.


    "Oh," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Some things are best left unknown. There was no need to inquire further, at least given the current rtionship with Zhongshan.


    "Princess, how much strength do you have left now?" Zhongshan asked after some thought.


    Princess Qianyou smiled bitterly, "I am now no different from an ordinary person. However, in a few days, I should be able to use some true energy. The Sacred Toxin Golden Silkworm, a peculiar poison from the Land of Supreme Bliss, will take a hundred days to fully recover, even with the Clean World Snow Lotus."


    "Then I''ll continue to help the Princess dispel the poison for a few more days. After that, the Princess will have to handle it herself," Zhongshan said after some thought.


    "Do you really trust Qianyou that much?" Princess Qianyou''s beautiful eyes fixed on Zhongshan intently.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan smiled faintly and said, "I don''t think the Princess has much interest in my Clean World Snow Lotus."


    "That might not necessarily be the case," Princess Qianyou''s eyes lit up, and a rare mischievous expression appeared on her face.


    At the Residence of the Great Deer King


    "How is the investigation going?" the Great Deer King asked, frowning.


    "Your Highness, we''ve thoroughly checked all the ces and people Princess Qianyou''s subordinates have visited in the past few months. However, a group of people suddenly disappeared," Wu''an reported respectfully.


    "Oh?" The Great Deer King was puzzled.


    "Qili Town, the Lu family, no one is left," Wu''an said.


    "The Lu family?" The Great Deer King asked, still puzzled.


    "Yes, there was a man named Lu Jianping in the Lu family. I investigated; he was a jailer at the Heavenly Prison and often bullied Wu Wanli. However, on the day Wu Wanli died, Lu Jianping also suddenly disappeared. I suspect he is connected to Princess Qianyou," Wu''an exined.


    "Disappeared? They couldn''t have just vanished. Were they exterminated?" The Great Deer King wondered.


    "No, based on information collected from Qili Town, they purchased arge amount of food and supplies at that time, so it seems they were nning to flee. They might have joined up with Princess Qianyou," Wu''an spected.


    "Joined with Princess Qianyou? What cultivation levels do those people have?" The Great Deer King asked.


    "The highest is at the Innate stage," Wu''an replied.


    "Haha, Innate stage. How far can those people run? That Lu Jianping is surely connected to Wu Wanli and might know how to unlock the Ten Thousand City Treasure Mirror. Alright then, search for them. Not only Princess Qianyou''s party but also the entire Lu family. People at the Innate stage should be easy to find," The Great Deer King said,ughing.


    "Yes, Your Highness. But what should we do about Princess Qianyou and her group?" Wu''an asked with a frown.


    "What else? Capture them to exchange for the Ten Thousand City Treasure Mirror," The Great Deer King replied.


    "I mean Zhongshan," Wu''an rified.


    "Zhongshan? What about him?" The Great Deer King asked, confused.


    "Your Highness, I''ve heard that the former Grand Marshal Yi Yan highly valued this Zhongshan and even invited him alone. Moreover, Zhongshan is indeed exceptionally intelligent," Wu''an said.


    "Yes, but what of it?" The Great Deer King frowned, feeling Wu''an''s words were baffling.


    "Your Highness, His Majesty has yet to appoint a new Grand Marshal," Wu''an suggested.


    Before Wu''an could finish, the Great Deer King''s eyes widened in realization, "You mean...."


    Then, the Great Deer King began pacing back and forth in the hall. He remembered Yi Yan''s words from when they were pursuing Princess Qianyou: bring Zhongshan back unharmed. His Majesty''s actions were also strange; despite Yi Yan stepping down as Grand Marshal, a new one hadn''t been appointed. Was he waiting for Yi Yan''s rmendation? Who would he rmend? Zhongshan?


    Realizing this, the Great Deer King felt a sense of urgency. His eyes narrowed, and his face darkened.


    "Wu''an, deliver my orders!" The Great Deer King suddenlymanded, frowning.


    "At once," Wu''an responded, immediately kneeling on one knee.


    "Search for Princess Qianyou, the Lu family, and Zhongshan. Use all means to kill Zhongshan. A reward of 500,000 high-grade spirit stones for killing Zhongshan," The Great Deer King ordered.


    "Understood," Wu''an replied.


    Five Days Later


    Although Princess Qianyou had woken up, she was still weak. However, she could now release some true energy, allowing Zhongshan to temporarily leave the Clean World Snow Lotus with her to help her expel the poison.


    Princess Qianyou was in the sedan chair, purifying the poison from her body, while Zhongshan stepped outside.


    "Sir, something''s wrong. Now, the Great Yu Dynasty has deployed soldiers everywhere to hunt us down, determined to capture the Princess. And there''s more..." Ah Da said with concern.


    "What else?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "They have also put a bounty on your head, offering 500,000 high-grade spirit stones for killing you," Ah Da added.


    "Haha, I didn''t expect my life to be valued at only 500,000 high-grade spirit stones," Zhongshan said with a faint smile.


    "Sir, what should we do now? Previously, only the soldiers from the surrounding ten cities near the Sky City were searching for us. But now, the entire army of the Great Yu Dynasty is hunting us down. They''ve even recalled the troops that were heading east and south, focusing them all on the north and west. We''re right within their search area. While we''ve been recuperating here, the news has spread to the more distant cities, and more troops are waiting for us ahead," Ah Da said, full of worry.


    Hearing this, Zhongshan frowned and thought for a moment. "It seems that Mister Water Mirror and his people have already escaped to a safe ce. The Great Yu Dynasty is looking to capture Princess Qianyou to exchange for the Ten Thousand City Treasure Mirror. This isn''t something Yi Yan would do; he would never act this way. Coupled with the urgency to kill me, haha, Yi Yan must have been dismissed."


    "Sir, how do you know this?" Ah Da''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "Oh? You know about this too?" Zhongshan asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, I heard about it while interrogating a soldier from the Great Yu Dynasty earlier. I just didn''t have time to tell you. But I''m surprised that you figured it out just from their troop movements," Ah Da said, full of admiration.


    "It wasn''t hard to guess," Zhongshan said with a nod and a smile.


    "Not hard to guess?" Ah Da was left bewildered.


    "Sir, as we discussed earlier, the soldier we interrogated can''t return for a while. Since our position might bepromised, we should leave quickly," Ah Er suggested.


    "Yes, right. Ah Er, did you find the Lu family I asked you to look for?" Zhongshan inquired.


    "They''re in a valley not far ahead. Lu Jianping has already arrived. But, sir, do you n to take them with us?" Ah Da asked, looking incredulous.


    "Why not?" Zhongshan smiled.


    Both Ah Da and Ah Er widened their eyes in shock. It was already difficult enough for the four of them to escape, and now Zhongshan wanted to take over eighty extra people with them? Apart from Lu Jianping, the rest of the group''s highest cultivation level was only at the Innate stage. Taking them along? How could they possibly escape like that?


    "Sir, are you really going to take them with us? You''re not joking, right?" Ah Da asked again, his eyes wide with disbelief.

 Chapter 231: The Beginning of the Frenzy

    <h4>Chapter 231: The Beginning of the Frenzy</h4>


    "Of course, I''m not joking," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "But the Princess is currently weak. It''s already difficult enough to escape while bringing the Princess along, and now you want to take more than eighty others with us? How could we possibly manage that?" Ah Da said in disbelief.


    "If the King of Julu merely wanted to capture me, it might still be difficult. But now that he wants to kill me, we can definitely escape with everyone. Whether we have more or fewer people, it makes no difference," Zhongshan said with certainty.


    Although Zhongshan had previously been able to anticipate the enemy''s moves and handle situations perfectly, this time was different. It involved the safety of the Princess, and no matter how trustworthy Zhongshan was, he couldn''t gamble with the Princess''s safety.


    "Sir, this decision must be approved by the Princess," Ah Da said, shaking his head.


    "Very well," Zhongshan nodded and then walked to the side of the sedan chair.


    "Princess," Zhongshan called toward the sedan chair.


    "What is it, sir?" Princess Qianyou''s voice came from within the sedan chair.


    "Ah Da, you exin," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," Ah Da responded immediately.


    Ah Da then recounted all the information they had gathered, leaving nothing out, and waited for Princess Qianyou''s decision from inside the sedan chair.


    "Sir, did you bring those people from the Lu family?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "I was entrusted to do so. I hope you understand, Princess," Zhongshan replied.


    "Entrusted? Haha, the more I observe you, the more secrets you seem to have, sir," Princess Qianyou said with a smile.


    "I hope you can forgive me, Princess," Zhongshan said again.


    "Hmm, let me ask you this: How confident are you about taking all these people with us?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Absolutely confident," Zhongshan responded with utmost certainty.


    "Alright! I approve. Ah Da, Ah Er, follow Mr. Zhongshan''s orders," Princess Qianyou''s voice affirmed from within the sedan chair.


    "Yes," Ah Da and Ah Er immediately responded.


    With Princess Qianyou''s approval, Zhongshan smiled slightly and said, "Let''s go to that valley."


    "Okay," Ah Da and Ah Er nodded in agreement.


    Before long, Ah Da and Ah Er were gliding close to the ground on clouds, carrying Zhongshan and the sedan chair, as they arrived at a valley.


    In the valley, dozens of people had set up simple shelters. Women were cooking over open fires, while men were chopping wood and helping out. It was like a scene from a tranquil, idyllic paradise.


    Seeing these people, Ah Da and Ah Er raised their eyebrows repeatedly. This group hadn''t even reached the level of being able to live without food; they would still need to eat every day. How could they possibly take them along?


    As Zhongshan approached the valley with therge sedan chair, someone with keen eyesight spotted him and immediately went to the makeshift shelters to report.


    "Senior!" Those who recognized Zhongshan immediately addressed him.


    Soon, Lu Jianping and the elder of the Lu family arrived in front of Zhongshan.


    "Senior!" Lu Jianping and the elder both greeted Zhongshan in the same manner.


    "Are you ready? We''re about to set off," Zhongshan said.


    "Senior, we''re fully prepared. But just now, some soldiers from the Great Yu Dynasty passed by. There were three of them. We captured one, but the other two got away," Lu Jianping reported.


    "Oh, take me to see him," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," Lu Jianpingplied.


    Entering a small house nearby, they found a man tied up with a special rope, his eyes filled with fear.


    "Did you get any information out of him?" Zhongshan asked.


    "They''re looking for us, and they''ve confirmed that the Princess and I are together," Lu Jianping said, frowning.


    With a slight smile, Zhongshan walked over to the bound soldier, squatted down, and looked into his panicked eyes. "Don''t worry. Your tworades have already escaped, and they''ll be back soon with reinforcements. I won''t kill you. I just need you to deliver a message to the King of Julu."


    The bound soldier, with his mouth gagged, nodded frantically.


    "Tell him that Yi Yan intends to rmend me for the position of Grand Commander of the Great Yu Dynasty, and the Iron-Blood General heard it with his own ears," Zhongshan said with a smile, his eyes gleaming brightly.


    Behind him, Ah Da looked utterly puzzled. What was Mr. Zhongshan trying to do? Wouldn''t this only increase the King of Julu''s determination to kill him?


    "Did you hear that?" Zhongshan asked, staring at the soldier.


    The soldier nodded his head vigorously, even more urgently than before.


    "Let''s move," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes, sir," everyone responded in unison.


    The group then left the valley. The women stopped cooking, packed up their stoves, and carried their children as they prepared to leave. Ah Da and Ah Er, riding their clouds, guided everyone.


    They headed west.


    Not long after they left, a troop from the Great Yu Dynasty arrived at the valley. After a thorough search, they quickly found the bound soldier.


    "General, I saw Zhongshan. It was definitely him, along with the entire Lu family. And he asked me to deliver a message to the King," the soldier said as soon as he was untied.


    "This way? Good. Inform everyone to search in all directions from here and recall the northern troops. You,e with me to see the King," the general ordered.


    "Yes, sir," the soldiers responded.


    The pursuit of Zhongshan became even more concentrated. The soldier was taken to see the King of Julu.


    Inside arge tent, the King of Julu sat at themand desk, looking at the Iron-Blood General standing before him, with Wu An behind him and the soldier kneeling on the ground.


    "Iron-Blood General, is it true what Zhongshan said? That Yi Yan promised Zhongshan the position of Grand Commander?" the King of Julu asked, narrowing his eyes as he looked at the Iron-Blood General.


    The Iron-Blood General took a deep breath, feeling somewhat impatient with the King of Julu, but he still nodded and said, "Yes, the Grand Commander did say that."


    Seeing the Iron-Blood General''s discontent, the King of Julu paid no mind and said, "Very well. You may leave."


    "Yes, sir," the Iron-Blood General replied, then turned and left.


    Watching the Iron-Blood General leave, the King of Julu''s eyes gradually narrowed, a cold gleam shing in them.


    "Your Highness, Zhongshan deliberately led our troops away. Such audacity! Doesn''t he fear being captured by us?" Wu An asked, frowning.


    "He not only saw Zhongshan but also Ah Da and Ah Er, which means Princess Qianyou is definitely with them. Since she is very weak right now and can''t travel alone, they must all be heading in that direction. Since Zhongshan wants to court death, we won''t hesitate to grant his wish," the King of Julu said coldly.


    "Understood," Wu An nodded.


    "Pass my order: All troops are to search the west. Whoever kills Zhongshan will be rewarded with a million high-grade spirit stones. I want to see how many wings this Zhongshan has to escape such a thorough search," the King of Julu said in a cold voice.


    In a secluded valley, the Lu family had once again started cooking. Near the grand pnquin, Ah Da and Ah Er stood anxiously outside, while Zhongshan had been summoned by Princess Qianyou for a discussion inside.


    "Sir," Ah Da finally couldn''t hold back and spoke up.


    "What is it?" Zhongshan asked, looking puzzled.


    "I caught another soldier just now. After some interrogation, it''s clear that the Great Yu army is concentrating their forces here. We are in increasing danger. What should we do now?" Ah Da expressed his concern from outside the pnquin.


    Inside the pnquin, Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou were seated on separate couches. A small table stood between them, holding a teapot and two cups of tea, over which they were conversing.


    "How much is the bounty for killing me now?" Zhongshan turned his head to ask.


    Princess Qianyou smiled slightly but did not interrupt.


    "Uh? A million high-grade spirit stones," Ah Da replied with a peculiar expression. He was bewildered by how Zhongshan seemed more interested in the value of his bounty than in the impending danger.


    "Tut, that King of Julu is so stingy," Zhongshan shook his head and sighed.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, both Ah Da and Ah Er were left speechless and somewhat bewildered.


    "Sir, you don''t seem worried at all," Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    "Blessings and cursese as they may. We can''t avoid them if theye. Let them search; our people still need to eat," Zhongshan said nonchntly.


    "Very well, I am eager to see how you will lead this group through a sea of soldiers," Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Just wait and see, Princess," Zhongshan replied with a smile.


    After the Lu family finished their meal, Zhongshan gave the order: "Head north."


    The cloud carried everyone northward for over a thousand miles, when suddenly Zhongshan said, "Head west."


    "Head south." "Head east." Zhongshan continued to give unpredictable directions. Over the next five days, they traveled in various directions, and remarkably, they didn''t encounter a single Great Yu soldier.


    Ah Da and Ah Er found this quite odd. Could it be that the Great Yu army had retreated? However, when Ah Da scouted ahead and investigated the surrounding areas, he discovered that they werepletely surrounded by the Great Yu army. Soldiers were frantically searching everywhere, seemingly on the verge of madness.


    Indeed, the soldiers of the Great Yu army were going insane, and so was the King of Julu.


    In the centralmand tent, the King of Julu red at amander standing before him. "Speak, keep speaking!"


    "Your Highness, it''s been five days now. We''ve been sending patrols to those areas daily, constantly checking. We see signs of campfires and even abandoned stoves, but we can''t find the people. Twice we arrived just moments after they had left, with their fires still smoldering, yet we couldn''t see them."


    "Idiots! I''ve given you so many troops, millions of soldiers, to search that area, and you can find everything except the people? You fools! If you don''t find them soon, I''ll make sure you join the ghosts you''re talking about. Dig three feet into the ground if you have to, but find those mortals, you fools!" the King of Julu roared.


    "Yes, Your Highness!" themander quickly responded and left the tent in haste.


    "Your Highness, there''s something very peculiar about this. It''s as if Princess Qianyou and her party know our search patterns. They always seem to pass through an area just after our troops have searched it. The ces they''ve been through are precisely where our troops are currently searching. It''s as if they know our search procedures, where the gaps are, and where the blind spots are. It''s eerie!" Wu An said, frowning.

 Chapter 232: Silence is Terrifying

    <h4>Chapter 232: Silence is Terrifying</h4>


    In the midst of a new valley, Zhongshan addressed Lu Jianping, "Is your supply of dry rations sufficient this time?"


    "Yes, we''ve been saving a bit every day, and with what we prepared before, we have enough tost without needing to cook again for a long time," Lu Jianping replied.


    "Good. The adults can eat the dry rations. As for the children, those of you with true qi and true essence should heat their food for them," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Understood," Lu Jianping responded.


    Lu Jianping went back to inform his n, while Zhongshan leisurely returned to the flower pnquin.


    "Sir, you are truly a miraculous person," Ah Da said with immense admiration.


    Indeed, in this intricate, imprable of pursuit, Zhongshan had miraculously led everyone through the cracks, without even touching the.


    "Prepare to move west," Zhongshan ordered with a smile.


    "Yes," Ah Da and Ah Er replied excitedly.


    Zhongshan walked back to the flower pnquin and entered to continue sipping tea with Princess Qianyou.


    Princess Qianyou gazed at Zhongshan with wide eyes, a look of astonishment in her gaze. "Sir, how do you know so precisely? How can you predict even the deployment and movements of the King of Julu''s troops?"


    "Just luck," Zhongshan shrugged nonchntly.


    Luck? Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan speechlessly. In the past, she could somewhat understand Zhongshan''s actions, but now, his methods of evading the pursuit were beyond herprehension.


    In themand tent of the King of Julu, the King listened to the report from a kneeling general.


    "You''re saying they''re no longer cooking but eating dry rations? And your men were foolishly guarding an empty spot until five dayster when someone noticed they had started a fire eighty thousand miles away?" the King of Julu questioned, his face contorted in frustration.


    "Yes," the soldier replied.


    "Zhongshan and his group are leading dozens of mortals. Mortals! I wouldn''t me you if you couldn''t defeat them, but you didn''t even catch a glimpse of them until they had broken through the encirclement and were nearly out of the. You only discovered their fire then?" the King of Julu roared.


    "Your Highness, we''ve done our best. If we had twice as many men, we would definitely have found Princess Qianyou''s group," the general insisted.


    "Fine, I''ll pull another four hundred thousand troops from the surrounding areas. Don''te back to tell me you couldn''t find them," the King of Julu fumed.


    "Yes, I swear we will find Princess Qianyou this time," the general vowed.


    "Get out," the King of Julu ordered.


    The general quickly got up and backed out of the tent.


    Watching the general leave, the King of Julu''s frustration boiled over. Four hundred thousand troops were supposed to capture a few mortals, but they had let them slip away without even seeing them.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    In a fit of rage, the King of Julu swept the tea set off his desk. Wu An, standing to the side, opened his mouth but dared not say anything.


    In a secluded mountain valley, Ah Da approached Zhongshan with excitement, "Sir, now there are eight hundred thousand troops hunting us. This King of Julu must be going mad."


    Over the past few days, Ah Da had developed immense faith in Zhongshan, convinced that there was nothing his master couldn''t solve. However, at this moment, Zhongshan''s expression was grave. He surveyed the east, the south, the west, and the north, scrutinizing every direction. His frown did not rx, as the cinnabar mark on his forehead, the Red Luan Powder Lotus, remained an ominous blue. Earlier, he had provoked the King of Julu''s killing intent, who had then offered a bounty of a million top-grade spirit stones for his capture, adopting a "live or die" strategy. Unlike previous times when the Red Luan Powder Lotus would return to normal after finding a safe route, this time it indicated a dire situation with no escape.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan closed his eyes and pondered for a while. Everyone waited patiently, knowing the gravity of the situation.


    Suddenly, Zhongshan opened his eyes and stared intently at Ah Er. "This time, with eight hundred thousand troops, we are in serious danger. Ah Er, you must divert the pursuers."


    "Me, sir?" Ah Er was puzzled.


    "Yes. Head twenty thousand miles northeast to the mountain where we previously stayed. Make sure the army sees you, and then keep flying north. For the next three days, you must make sure they see you every day," Zhongshan instructed, his gaze unwavering.


    "And after that, how will I find you?" Ah Er asked with a furrowed brow.


    "Find us? That will be difficult. Do what you can, and if you can''t find us, head to the ''Sealing Spirit City'' in the Daguang Empire. We will definitely reach there within six months at thetest. Use the contact method I mentioned before to reach us," Zhongshan said with certainty.


    "Understood," Ah Er replied, immediately setting off.


    "Sir," Ah Da looked at Zhongshan with concern.


    "Rest for the night. Tomorrow, let Lu Jianping''s group cook and prepare more dry rations," Zhongshan ordered.


    "Uh, yes," Ah Da responded, puzzled.


    "Sir," Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan.


    "Hmm?" Zhongshan replied, curious.


    "I''ve been thinking over the past few days, how does sir know theyout and search patterns of the Dayu army? With eight hundred thousand troops, we have been moving right through them, yet they haven''t been able to catch us. I thought perhaps you observe the stars at night, but many of your decisions are made during the day. I don''t understand, and I would like you to enlighten me," Princess Qianyou said, herrge, beautiful eyes filled with curiosity.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan smiled slightly. "Princess, if I say I guessed, would you believe me?"


    Guessing? Princess Qianyou was speechless. "Alright, if you don''t wish to exin, I won''t press further."


    "Thank you, Princess. Zhongshan only has this skill; if I reveal everything, I won''t have anything to rely on in the future," Zhongshan said with a wry smile.


    "Ha!" Princess Qianyouughed, a rare loss ofposure. "Sir, you won''t starve. If anyone is likely to go hungry, it would be me, not you."


    In the King of Julu''smand tent, an excited general reported, "Your Highness, we found them! Our men have spotted Ah Er. I have ordered a full search."


    "Good! I''m not afraid of their strength, just their absence. Pursue them, chase them down!" The King of Julu was ted.


    For three consecutive days, the King of Julu remained in high spirits, receiving continuous good news. Ah Er had been sighted repeatedly.


    In the past, such ''good news'' wouldn''t have even been worth the King''s attention. But after an extended period of seeing nothing from their opponent, even catching a glimpse of one person became a cause for celebration among the eight hundred thousand troops. Anyone would feel frustrated after such a long, fruitless search, so seeing a single figure felt like a significant victory.


    Three dayster, frustration struck again as Ah Er disappeared once more. The eight hundred thousand troops continued their frantic search, but after nearly half a month with no results, the King of Julu realized he had been tricked again.


    With Ah Er gone, it was now up to Ah Da to keep guiding their cloud vehicle. The journey remained remarkably uneventful, encountering no obstacles or individuals along the way. Outside, the search was a chaotic and fiery spectacle. Birds and beasts fled from the tumult in the forests, and soldiers were tirelessly active. Yet to Lu Jianping and his group, it seemed eerily quiet. Under Zhongshan''s guidance, they encountered no one at all. It felt as though they were traversing and devoid of life, as if everyone in the Dayu Empire had simply vanished.


    The dead silence of the forests they passed through left Lu Jianping bewildered. Recalling the information forced from a captured soldier, he began to doubt the urgency of their situation. Was the Dayu army truly searching for them? Why hadn''t they seen a single soldier? Their group had roamed east and west, sometimes doubling back, and even lingered in some ces for a day and a night without encountering anyone.


    "Sir, we will reach the Daguang Empire''s territory soon. We''ve been traveling for nearly a month and a half now," Ah Da said excitedly.


    Although Ah Er hadn''t returned, this was not a major concern. Once they reached the Daguang Empire, they should be safe. At least, the Daguang Empire wouldn''t pursue them relentlessly like the King of Julu had.


    "Ah Da, we have a new problem. This time, you will need to divert the pursuers. They are closing in on us again," Zhongshan said, shaking his head.


    "Oh? I''ll go? What about you?" Ah Da asked, immediately worried.


    "It''s fine. We''re not far from the Daguang Empire''s territory. You mentioned a Wolf Valley ahead. I will use elixirs to enlist the help of the wolf n. And for this short distance, the Lu Jianping family''s innate martial artists can carry the sedan chair," Zhongshan exined.


    Ah Da frowned, feeling uncertain. He looked towards Princess Qianyou for confirmation.


    "Go ahead, Ah Da. Although I am still weak, being carried in the sedan chair should be fine. Besides, it''s been a month and a half; I have regained some of my true energy. Follow the master''s n. With him, we will definitely reach Sealing Spirit City," Princess Qianyou reassured him.


    "Yes," Ah Da nodded.


    Zhongshan then detailed the n to divert the pursuers, and Ah Da swiftly departed. With Ah Da gone, the threat of the pursuers was once again neutralized. Zhongshan called for Lu Jianping.


    "Lu Jianping, select four of your family''s innate martial artists to carry the sedan chair for the remainder of the journey," Zhongshan ordered.


    "The two elders have left? Are we to travel west on foot from now on?" Lu Jianping asked, surprised.


    "Do not worry. I have everything under control," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," Lu Jianping replied.

 Chapter 233: It鈥檚 Great to Know a Foreign Language

    <h4>Chapter 233: It''s Great to Know a Foreign Language</h4>


    Three dayster, twelve ck wolves, each over ten meters tall, moved swiftly through the forest. Leading the pack was a wolf nearly twenty meters tall, carrying arge sedan chair on its back. Behind it trailed eleven wolves, each carrying seven or eight people. The group marveled at the sight of the giant wolf carrying them through the forest. Were they encountering demons?


    Not long ago, they had encountered a simr scene, but this was even more extravagant. Even Lu Jianping, who was riding on thest wolf, widened his eyes at the sight of the sedan chair atop the lead wolf.


    Because Zhongshan was inside.


    Lu Jianping couldn''t help but marvel at the usefulness of knowing a foreignnguage. Though Zhongshan only understood thenguage of wolves, being able tomunicate with them had convinced a group of beasts to escort them. In the past, Lu Jianping would have surely turned and fled.


    Inside the sedan chair on the lead wolf, Zhongshanmanded, "Head north."


    Soon, the wolf carrying the sedan chair sped northward. Not long after, soldiers from the Dayu Empire flew past the area they had just vacated.


    "Head west," Zhongshanmanded from within the sedan chair, directing the lead wolf.


    "Sir, why do these wolves obey you?" Princess Qianyou, sitting beside Zhongshan, asked incredulously.


    "My master once gave me a wolf token, and with the rewards I offered them, I managed to enlist the help of the wolf n. Besides, beasts aren''t always bloodthirsty," Zhongshan exined.


    Indeed, Zhongshan possessed a wolf token. It was the one given to him by the Bodhisattva and the Lady of Green Silk when they ventured into the Wolf Domain. The Lady of Green Silk had ultimately given it to Zhongshan. However, the ability to enlist the help of the wolf n wasn''t due to the token but rather Zhongshan himself.


    "You have so many treasures, sir!" Princess Qianyou eximed, gazing at Zhongshan.


    "Just a few, hardly worth calling treasures," Zhongshan chuckled.


    Five dayster, in the tent of the King of Julu:


    "Idiots! Useless trash!"


    With a furious p, the enraged King of Julu overturned the tea set on his table, yelling at the kneeling figure before him.


    "Your Majesty, we did our best!" the kneeling general protested, feeling extremely wronged.


    "Your best? Ha! Eight million soldiers! Eight million! Ah Da left, Ah Er left, and among that group, the highest cultivation level was only Golden Core. There were over eighty Innate and Postnatal individuals. Yet, they swaggered right through the midst of eight million troops, and not a single person saw them! Do you call that your best? Who would believe such a im?" the King of Julu thundered.


    "But... every time they stopped to cook, the temporary stoves they made were always a considerable distance apart. Your Majesty, they couldn''t possibly be a group of ordinary people. There must be people arranged to assist Princess Qianyou. They must have had people aiding them long before we arrived," the general quickly defended himself.


    "Assistance? Ah Da and Ah Er never leave Princess Qianyou''s side unless absolutely necessary. If someone was assisting them, it would be someone else leading us astray, not them," Wu''an interjected.


    The King of Julu took a deep breath, ring fixedly at the general before him.


    "Eight million troops. If we fail to capture Princess Qianyou this time, how can I face His Majesty? I will be theughingstock of the world. You''ll be the first one I hold ountable then," the King of Julu said, his eyes narrowing dangerously.


    "But, Your Majesty, further west lies the border between Dayu and Daguang. If we continue westward, won''t we risk exacerbating tensions between the two empires?" the general suggested cautiously.


    "Are you seeking death, or do you wish to continue the search?" the King of Julu snapped.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. I will immediately issue the order to resume the search," the general quickly responded.


    In a tent on the border between Dayu and Daguang, within the midst of thousands of troops, a scene unfolded.


    A man in a gray robe, appearing to be around forty years old, with long flowing hair, exuded an air of nonchnce as he sat behind themand table. Numerous generals sat on either side, awaiting a report from a subordinate before them.


    "Reporting to the Supreme Commander, the eight million soldiers led by the King of Julu from the Dayu Empire are approaching our border with Daguang," the reporting general said.


    "Hahaha!"ughter erupted from the generals in the tent.


    "Supreme Commander, after such a grandiose and lengthy search, the Dayu Empire''s troops led by the King of Julu have yet to encounter even a shadow of Princess Qianyou? Is the Dayu army really this ipetent?" one generalughed.


    "Yes, Supreme Commander, after searching for over a month, nearly two months, with eight million soldiers, for a group of ordinary people, the Dayu Empire seems to be failing," another general chuckled.


    "Dayu will never falter as long as Yiyu Yan is there. Remember, never underestimate the enemy," the gray-robed Supreme Commander said solemnly.


    "Yes," the generals immediately responded.


    "Supreme Commander, isn''t it true that Yiyu Yan has been demoted by Nn Piaoxue?" another general asked.


    "Demoted? No one in Dayu can demote Yiyu Yan. Perhaps this is Dayu''s strategy to confuse the enemy. As for these eight million Dayu soldiers, they aren''t ordinary either," the Supreme Commander frowned.


    "Why do you say so?" the central figure among the generals inquired.


    "The Daluo Empire has made no response to the fact that Princess Qianyou is being pursued by eight million troops. This is unusual. How could eight million soldiers fail to find even a few dozen ordinary people? This is also unusual. Why is the King of Julu leading the troops instead of Yiyu Yan?" the Supreme Commander frowned.


    "Supreme Commander, are you suggesting...?" a frightened general spoke up.


    "Supreme Commander, are you suggesting that Dayu''s pursuit of Princess Qianyou is a ruse, and the real objective is to attack our Daguang Empire? Is the King of Julu leading eight million soldiers to make us rx, while Dayu and Daluo have reached an agreement to jointly target our Daguang Empire?" another general suddenly stood up in shock.


    Inside the tent, everyone looked at the Supreme Commander in horror, and the atmosphere became extremely oppressive.


    "It''s still uncertain at this point. His Majesty has appointed me as the Eastern Peace Supreme Commander to guard against the Dayu Empire. I have already mobilized troops from all directions and sent messengers to inform His Majesty, preparing to meet the enemy. Whether Daluo and Dayu are cooperating remains to be confirmed. Each of you should focus on your duties and avoid any mistakes during this period," the Supreme Commander said.


    "Yes, sir," the generals responded.


    Underneath a towering mountain, a convoy of carriages slowly made its way along a mountain road.


    The carriages wereden with arge quantity of goods, clearly belonging to a merchant caravan.


    In the second carriage, Zhongshan and Lu Jianping were seated.


    "During this segment, the Dayu army has been led by the makeshift stoves we left behind into the far north, while we have prated deep into the hearnd of the Daguang Empire," Zhongshan remarked.


    "Yes, sir. Your wisdom is profound," Lu Jianping respectfully replied.


    With a slight smile, Zhongshan didn''t pay too much attention to Lu Jianping''s praise but continued, "Within the boundaries of Daguang, there are many settlements simr to your hometown of Qili Town. Each town has arge poption, and if ten more people suddenly appear in each town, it won''t be considered unusual."


    "Understood," Lu Jianping nodded.


    "The five towns ahead, you''ve seen them all. Your people have been resettled in different locations. It''s absolutely safe. And you ten will soon enter the next town. From now on, you will each reside in one of the six major towns here. Use the disguise techniques I taught you. Just by making minor adjustments to your faces, you''ll lookpletely different," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Sir, are you nning to lead the pursuers away?" Lu Jianping frowned.


    "The princess and I will leaveter. Lead the pursuers away? Once we reach the Daguang border, it won''t matter whether there are pursuers or not. You can rest assured. In just half a year, you''ll gradually be able to restore your original appearance. The people of your Lu family are numerous, and with the pills I''ve given you, you''ll definitely be able to cultivate faster than others," Zhongshan stared at Lu Jianping.


    "Sir, you''re leaving, and you''re entrusting everything to me? Aren''t you worried that I might leave with my family or seek refuge with some empire?" Lu Jianping stared at Zhongshan.


    "I trust you and your father, the head of the Lu family," Zhongshan looked at Lu Jianping with determination in his eyes.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s trusting gaze, Lu Jianping took a deep breath and spoke with equal determination, "Sir, rest assured, Lu Jianping has promised you for a hundred years and will never go back on his word."


    "Good, you''ll wait in these towns. And we bought maps from the previous town. If there are any environmental constraints or other reasons, you can go to the three cities and twelve towns I specified earlier. My people wille to you when the timees," Zhongshan affirmed.


    "Wait, sir, how long do we have to wait?" Lu Jianping frowned.


    "Ten years!" Zhongshan affirmed without hesitation.


    Ten years, it had to be ten years. Ten years could soften some things, perfect some things, and make everything handled perfectly, including the Great Dong Dynasty.


    "Ten years? What about these ten years..." Lu Jianping frowned.


    "These ten years will of course be counted within the hundred years. The pills and spiritual stones for your cultivation from before will also count as your sry for these ten years," Zhongshan exined.


    "Sry?" Lu Jianping furrowed his brows.


    "Yes, your task for the next ten years is to wait, wait for my people toe find you," Zhongshan stared at Lu Jianping.


    "Rest assured, sir, we will wait for ten years. But after ten years, when your peoplee to find us, how can we be sure they''re telling the truth?" Lu Jianping furrowed his brows.


    "By using a secret code formunication. The code will be ''Dong''. Remember, if the word ''Dong'' is mentioned deliberately, it''s my people," Zhongshan exined.


    "Understood," Lu Jianping nodded.


    "Also, focus on teaching your family cultivation. The knowledge imparted by Wu Wanli should not be revealed," Zhongshan emphasized once again.


    "Rest assured, sir, I understand," Lu Jianping nodded.

 Chapter 234: Inside the DaGuang Realm

    <h4>Chapter 234: Inside the DaGuang Realm</h4>


    On the mountain road, a carriage stopped at a fork. Zhongshan sat in front of the carriage, watching the merchant convoy slowly departing. Princess Qianyou gently lifted the curtain, looking at the distant convoy, then back at Zhongshan.


    "Sir, are we just going to leave this group of people behind?" Princess Qianyou asked calmly.


    "We''ve already reached the Great Light territory, and my task isplete. Thank you for your help along the way," Zhongshan said.


    "It''s nothing. They''ve been quite helpful during the journey," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes, we used wolves to travel in the mountains before. But now that we''re in the Great Light territory, using wolves would attract too much attention. From now on, I''ll be driving the carriage for you, Princess. But I''m sorry for the hardships you''ve endured along the way," Zhongshan said.


    "Hehe, traveling with Sir has been quite exciting. Without you, I''m afraid I would have returned to the Sky City by now," Princess Qianyou said.


    "If it weren''t for me, you probably wouldn''t have been poisoned, and you''d already be with A Da, A Er, and Gu Lin, right?" Zhongshan shook his head with a sigh.


    "You remembered!" Princess Qianyou suddenly smiled mischievously.


    Seeing the sudden change in Princess Qianyou''s expression, Zhongshan was slightly taken aback. He shook his head and sighed, "How is your recovery going now, Princess?"


    "It''s been two months already. I''ve reached the innate stage now. Perhaps in a few days, I''ll be able to reach the Golden Core stage. The toxins are constantly being expelled, and from now on, it''s just a matter of time. In another forty days, I''ll be fully recovered," Princess Qianyou said.


    "That''s good to hear," Zhongshan nodded. He urged the carriage to head towards another road.


    In the tent of the Giant Deer King:


    "Your Highness, we''ve reached the border of the Great Light. Should we continue searching deeper, or should we stop?" a general knelt before the Giant Deer King.


    The Giant Deer King''s eyes were bloodshot. An indescribable frustration filled his chest.


    They had been chasing for two months, two months! Yet they hadn''t even caught sight of Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou. They were still apanied by over eighty people. Eight million soldiers chasing after them! If they returned like this, wouldn''t they be theughingstock of the world?


    "Your Highness, as our army approaches, the Great Light''s forces are also gathering. What should we do now? Should we continue searching?" General Wu An furrowed his brows.


    "Search. Continue the search. Inform the soldiers to avoid conflicts with the Great Light army and to bypass their searches," the Giant Deer King said wearily.


    "Yes," everyone responded.


    Within the Great Light border, inside the tent of the Grand Commander of the Great Light''s Eastern Front:


    "The eight million troops from the Great Yu have reached the border of the Great Light. Are we ready to fight?" a general asked.


    The Grand Commander smiled faintly, "Rest assured, even if they attack the Great Light, our gathered forces are enough to resist. However, I recently received some secret intelligence."


    "Hmm?" all the generals turned to look at the Grand Commander.


    "It seems that the Giant Deer King is indeed searching for Princess Qianyou, who has now reached our Great Light territory and is indeed poisoned as rumored," the Grand Commander chuckled.


    "How is that possible? Are the troops from Great Yu all ipetent? Eight million soldiers and they can''t even find a single person?" one general couldn''t believe it.


    "Perhaps Princess Qianyou is just lucky. But rest assured, I''ve received this information as absolutely true. Moreover, the Grand Commander of Great Yu, Yi Yan, is indeed not showing himself. He has been removed from his position," the Grand Commander said.


    "So what should we do now, Grand Commander?" another general stared at the Grand Commander.


    "Since we''ve reached my territory, we can''t let the Giant Deer King capture Princess Qianyou. Send out my orders to search for her with all our might," Grand Commander Xiao Wang said.


    "But Grand Commander, why do we need to capture Princess Qianyou?" the general asked.


    "ording to the information we gathered earlier, Princess Qianyou won''t fully recover for another forty days. During this period, she''s weakened, and her presence can be easily detected within a radius of ten meters due to the corruption of her spiritual energy. As for why we should let the Giant Deer King capture her first, hehe, you''ll know when the timees," Xiao Wang said.


    "Yes, Grand Commander," everyone immediately responded.


    After passing through a small town, Zhongshan changed to two strong ck horses and continued driving the carriage.


    "Sir, do you remember what that shopkeeper said just now?" Princess Qianyou sat in the carriage and smiled.


    "He was just trying to be helpful," Zhongshan nodded.


    "But he mentioned ghosts. He said that his grandfather''s grandfather''s grandfather''s grandfather had already encountered them. He advised us not to take this road," Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    "Ghosts? Apart from the Ghost City of Fengdust time, I haven''t seen any ghosts. It just so happens that I want to take a look this time," Zhongshanughed.


    "Ghosts do exist, but if there''s no one to help them, as the shopkeeper said, ghosts that exist alone in the world for thousands of years are rare," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Oh, have you seen ghosts, Princess?" Zhongshan asked in confusion.


    "I have, but they can''t exist in the world for long because ghosts and humans are fundamentally different worlds. The world is too full of yang energy, so ghosts can''tst long before dispersing, unless there are specialized cultivators who infuse them with yin energy every day," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "So there are really ghosts in this world," Zhongshan furrowed his brows, pondering.


    "Yes, if we return to the capital in the future, I''ll take you to Tian Lao''s ce. He keeps a few ghost servants there," Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Alright, I''ll be counting on you for that, Princess," Zhongshan nodded.


    "No need to be so polite, Sir," Princess Qianyou said.


    "How''s your recovery going now, Princess?" Zhongshan asked again.


    "Well, I''ve reached the peak of the innate stage. I should be able to break through to the Golden Core stage in two days," Princess Qianyou said after some thought.


    "When the Princess reaches the Golden Core stage, we''ll bid farewell to the carriage," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    ... Throughout the journey, the two of them continued to chat, but it seemed like they were both avoiding certain sensitive topics.


    "Sir, there''s a huge miasma forest ahead!" Princess Qianyou suddenly pointed to a dark forest in the distance.


    As soon as Princess Qianyou finished speaking, Zhongshan''s eyes widened, his heart tightened, and he loosened the reins in his hand, turning to look at Princess Qianyou. "Princess, give me your hand!"


    Princess Qianyou was slightly puzzled but still extended her hand.


    Zhongshan grabbed Princess Qianyou''s hand, pulled her into his arms, and hurriedly rushed towards the nearby miasma forest.


    When Princess Qianyou handed over her right hand, she already guessed what was happening. Her face blushed as she was about to retract her hand, but Zhongshan grabbed it in an instant, pulling her into his arms.


    Instinctively, she wanted to struggle, but her rational mind calmed down. Seeing Zhongshan so anxious, it was obvious that danger was approaching. Princess Qianyou was also someone who understood the situation, so she obediently let Zhongshan hold her without moving, listening to his powerful heartbeat.


    "Thump, thump, thump..."


    Gradually, Princess Qianyou felt that her heartbeat was synchronizing with Zhongshan''s heartbeat, as if their heartbeats were resonating, sounding especially clear in Princess Qianyou''s ears. The same heartbeat? Princess Qianyou''s face blushed slightly.


    In an instant, Zhongshan rushed into the miasma forest with Princess Qianyou. As for the empty carriage, there was no time to worry about it now.


    In the pitch-ck forest, although the two were not afraid, Zhongshan still quickly found a very concealed ce and inserted the "Fog Concealment Divine Barrier" into the ground to prevent spiritual probing.


    Although Princess Qianyou''s presence could corrupt spiritual senses within ten meters, the Fog Concealment Divine Barrier was evenrger,pletely masking Princess Qianyou.


    "Sir, did you find something?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Yes, silence!" Zhongshan frowned.


    Because the Red Luan Pink Lotus on Zhongshan''s brow had been consistently showing blue, indicating danger, extreme danger. What danger was it? How should Zhongshan handle it? He had considered fleeing, trying various directions and methods, but the Red Luan Pink Lotus remained blue, indicating that no n was feasible.


    A sign of great danger!


    Although it was a sign of great danger, Zhongshan knew that signs of great danger were not necessarily impossible to resolve, just as signs of great fortune were not necessarily impossible to give up. Likest time, when chasing the Ink Jade Talisman, it was a sign of great fortune. If Zhongshan had given up the chase, it would have been averted, just as generally, signs of great danger were more difficult to resolve. Much more difficult.


    Therefore, Zhongshan remained fully vignt, unable to make any mistakes. He needed to face the impending great danger with all his attention, hoping to resolve it. Fleeing was not an option. It was better to stay here and adapt to any changes.


    Zhongshan concentrated, while Princess Qianyou stared curiously at Zhongshan. The more she looked at him, the more mysterious he seemed. On Tiang Ind, he was only in the Innate Realm, meaning Zhongshan was at most two hundred years old. How many secrets could such a "young" Zhongshan still have? Why did she feel like the more she looked, the moreyers she uncovered?


    Princess Qianyou couldn''t figure it out. But for such an intelligent woman like Princess Qianyou, the more she couldn''t figure something out, the more curious she became. It was as if she had an itch in her heart, wanting to peel away Zhongshan''s "clothes"yer byyer until she saw the innermost, most "hidden" appearance.


    Sure enough, while Zhongshan was concentrating, a yellow light flew from the distant sky. The carriage from earlier, now without a driver, had stopped by the side of the road, where the horses were leisurely grazing. The yellow light flew towards the carriage not far away.

 Chapter 235: Feng Shui Fish

    <h4>Chapter 235: Feng Shui Fish</h4>


    The yellow light drew closer, followed by a man in a white Daoist robe. With a wave of his hand, it seemed as though an invisible formed, restraining the yellow light, preventing it from flying forward. Even further back, there were more than fifty sword lights, indicating the pursuit of over fifty Golden Core Realm cultivators flying on their swords.


    The yellow light struggled desperately, but the white-robed man was too powerful. The invisible bound the yellow light tighter and tighter as the white-robed man approached. When they were near the carriage, the yellow light finally ran out of strength.


    It was only then that Zhongshan realized what the yellow light was. It was a fish, resembling the fish depicted in traditional Chinese New Year paintings.


    The fish was drawn with simple, yellow lines, outlining the three-dimensional form of a hollowed-out carp. The fish was depicted as swimming rapidly, its movements outlined with lines that seemed extremely urgent.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan widened his eyes. What was this?


    ncing at Princess Qianyou, he saw a hint of surprise sh in her eyes. However, Princess Qianyou seemed to understand.


    Zhongshan extended his palm, and Princess Qianyou understood, extending her index finger to write in Zhongshan''s palm.


    As her fingertip touched Zhongshan''s palm, it felt like a warm current flowed from her finger, causing Princess Qianyou''s heart to skip a beat. However, she quickly suppressed it and quickly wrote three words.


    Zhongshan concentrated.


    Feng Shui Fish!


    Princess Qianyou wrote the three words "Feng Shui Fish."


    Zhongshan furrowed his brows slightly but didn''t ask further. It wasn''t the right time. He simply nodded and continued to watch the situation with the Feng Shui Fish.


    Finally, the Feng Shui Fish couldn''t withstand the white-robed man any longer and was captured by him. The white-robed man showed excitement on his face.


    Near the carriage, the white-robed man quickly sat cross-legged, holding the Feng Shui Fish in his palm. Arge amount of purple energy suddenly emitted from his body, swiftly refining the Feng Shui Fish.


    The man was flying with the wind, clearly with a cultivation base of at least the Nascent Soul Realm. Therefore, Zhongshan didn''t rush out at this moment, only hoping that he would leave soon.


    In the distance, the fifty-plus sword lights also drew near,nding on the ground and looking toward the white-robed man refining the Feng Shui Fish.


    The leader suddenly unfolded a g formation and inserted it beside the white-robed man. Then, he cast a spell, setting up a formation. Gray mist rose, covering the people inside the formation and protecting the white-robed man who was refining the Feng Shui Fish.


    "Senior Brother, we don''t need to run this time. We''ve finally caught up. As long as Master sessfully refines it, can we go back?" one of them said.


    "That''s right. Next, we''ll protect Master. It shouldn''t take long," the purple-robed Senior Brother chuckled.


    "Senior Brother, there''s an empty carriage here. But no one''s around," another person said.


    The Senior Brother furrowed his brows slightly, nced at Zhongshan''s carriage, a hint of doubt shing in his eyes, then looked around and said, "If there''s no one, just leave it. It''s just an empty carriage, nothing to be surprised about."


    "Yes," they replied.


    The group protected the white-robed man inside the formation, while Zhongshan waited quietly in the distance.


    Just then, a three-hundred-strong army suddenly appeared in the distance, rushing from the mountainous forest.


    The army of three hundred didn''t fly from the sky but ran swiftly from the road where Zhongshan hade from earlier.


    Although they were running, their speed was exceptionally astonishing. It was a group of cultivators.


    And Zhongshan on the mountain had his pupils shrink. It turned out that the change of the Red Luan Pink Lotus to blue came from this rapidly approaching army?


    "General, those two people don''t match the descriptions you gave, but the woman among them, when my divine sense touched her within ten meters, it was instantly devoured. It was terrifying. I thought she was going to punish me," the gray-robed guide said.


    "Hahaha, regardless, take us to see. If we really find the people we''re looking for, you''ll benefit," the leading generalughed heartily.


    "Thank you, General," the gray-robed guide replied.


    "Well, we''ll take this road?" the general asked again.


    "It won''t be wrong. They bought a carriage and headed in this direction. There''s only this mountain road here, so they couldn''t have gone anywhere else. General, why don''t we fly? Why run all the way there?" the gray-robed guide asked.


    "Hmph, can you fly? My brothers here don''t all possess cloud-like agility. They can''t fly, so you have to run with us," the general said sternly, narrowing his eyes.


    "Yes," the gray-robed guide immediately agreed.


    Not long after, the three hundred soldiers and the gray-robed guide arrived nearby and saw a group of people gathered in the middle of the road.


    "General, it''s that carriage," the gray-robed guide suddenly eximed excitedly, pointing into the distance.


    "Stop!" the eldest senior brother suddenly shouted to the three hundred soldiers.


    The general waved his hand, and everyone stopped, looking warily at the fifty-plus cultivators.


    Standing at the forefront, the general looked at the empty carriage and then at the group of cultivators surrounded by the fifty-plus cultivators. The g formation shielded the inside from view, blocking any attempts to probe with divine sense. Were Princess Qianyou and Zhongshan inside the formation?


    From what the guide had said earlier, the general was almost certain that it was Princess Qianyou and Zhongshan. Capturing Princess Qianyou would be a great achievement, and killing Zhongshan, especially with the recent increase in the bounty by King Julu, would earn them two million high-grade spirit stones and a promotion for all ranks below Legion Commander.


    The tempting reward motivated the general to swiftly bring his men to pursue as soon as he learned that there were only two people here.


    The three hundred soldiers were all his elite troops.


    "Surrender Princess Qianyou and Zhongshan and leave immediately," the general called out.


    "You scoundrels, who do you think you are? When did the Great Yu Legion dare to act so arrogantly in Dayang?" the eldest senior brother angrily retorted.


    At this moment, the general''s greed clouded his judgment, and he didn''t care about this group of people.


    "Draw your bows," the general ordered.


    Because the general was already certain that Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou were inside the formation.


    "Whoosh~"


    Two hundred and ny-nine soldiers quickly drew out their Break-Origin Arrows and nocked their bows.


    "Say it again, get lost!" the general shouted.


    "Form the formation!" the eldest senior brother felt anxious when he saw this.


    "Whoosh~"


    Forty-nine disciples quickly took their positions in the designated spots, each drawing their long swords and aiming them directly at the soldiers opposite them.


    From their vantage point in the poisonous forest above, Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou widened their eyes. These people were actually fighting among themselves?


    "Fire~" the general ordered.


    "Kill~"


    The two hundred and ny-nine Break-Origin Arrows flew straight toward them, while the forty-nine-person sword formation suddenly emitted a burst of white light, and the forty-nine people swung their swords simultaneously.


    A moment, as the formation of forty-nine people emitted a burst of white light, enveloping them like a giant sword hilt, the direction of the sword pointed, a two-hundred-meter-long super sword qi shot towards the soldiers.


    "Defend~" the general shouted.


    "Boom~"


    Arge cloud of smoke billowed up, and arge number of soldiers flew into the sky on their flying swords, jumping out of the smoke. However, although the previous volley of Break-Origin Arrows did not harm the people in the sword formation, the remaining three people who did not participate in the formation were pierced by the arrows. Even their swords were shattered by the arrows, and with wide eyes filled with unwillingness, they slowly fell.


    The eldest senior brother was furious, his eyes red as he red at the opposite side.


    After the super sword qi attack from the formation, more than twenty elite soldiers on the opposite side were killed. Even the guide who had spoken earlier met his end under the onught of the sword qi.


    The eldest senior brother was furious, and so was the general, but more than anything, they were focused on the g formation shrouded in mist, where their targets must be.


    "Brothers, kill~" the general pointed his long de towards the formation.


    "Kill~" the elite soldiers also roared in unison, with some flying into the air on their flying swords, shooting madly with their Break-Origin Arrows, while others wielded their swords and charged towards the group of disciples.


    "For our junior brothers!" the eldest senior brother roared angrily. His eyes glinted with a red hue, and among those who had just died, one of his closest junior brothers was among them.


    "Roar~"


    The remaining forty-nine Golden Core stage cultivators quickly formed into a sword formation and charged into the ranks of the soldiers.


    As a unified entity, as long as one person remained alive, there were no weaknesses. Arrows rained down from the sky, but the sword qi rose up to meet them, neutralizing the threat.


    In the eyes of these dozens of brothers, with their junior brothers dead, the only option was revenge. They would kill these soldiers, leaving none alive. Kill!


    The forty-nine cultivators were already stronger than the soldiers, and once they formed the sword formation, they became an unstoppable force. In a sh, they killed another dozen or so soldiers.


    The general paid no heed to the lives of his men. Instead, he rode swiftly towards the g formation in the center of the road with a subordinate who could fly. Arrows flew towards them from above, but the formation deflected them. However, there was a ripple around the outer edge of the formation, indicating that the formation was not invincible.


    Flying closer, the general swung hisrge de, his ferocious face revealing a hint of ruthlessness, as a huge de qi shed down towards the g formation. Behind him, more than twenty soldiers drew their bows, ready to unleash a volley of arrows once the formation was breached.


    The powerful de qi, nearly thirty meters long, indicated that the general''s strength was at the peak of the Golden Core stage. With one sh, he could break through anything.


    Just as the de qi was about to cleave into the g formation, suddenly, a fair, white hand extended from within the formation.


    "Crack~"


    The fair hand effortlessly gripped the powerful de qi that the general had unleashed.

 Chapter 236:Zhong Shan鈥檚 Threat

    <h4>Chapter 236:Zhong Shan��s Threat</h4>


    "you''re son of bitch~" Inside the g formation, a furious roar suddenly echoed out. Then, the slender hand holding the de qi emitted a faint white light and twisted fiercely.


    "Boom~" The de qi dissipated, and even the general''srge de exploded into fragments, shooting towards him.


    "Pff~" The general sprayed a mouthful of blood, realizing the danger.


    Behind him, more than twenty Break-Origin Arrows shot towards the white hand.


    "Pang~" Suddenly, within the g formation, over a hundred sword qi, each a hundred meters long, burst forth, directly breaking through the more than twenty Break-Origin Arrows. The remaining sword qi shot towards the soldiers in the sky.


    "Crackling~" A series of sounds of arrows piercing flesh rang out. Except for the general, who protected himself with his qi, all the other soldiers were pierced by the sword qi and torn apart.


    Terrified, the general turned and fled.


    "Thinking of running?~" A white sword qi broke through the g formation, directly cutting the general into two with one strike.


    In the sky, the white-robed man reappeared out of nowhere.


    With a face full of anger, the white-robed man looked at his three dead disciples. His eyes turned cold as he gazed at the other soldiers who were ughtered by the sword formation. And at the fleeing soldiers.


    "Thinking of running? Not a single one of you will escape," the white-robed man said coldly.


    Then, he tossed his long sword, which turned into a stream of light, shooting directly towards the fleeing soldiers in the distance.


    Standing in the distance, controlling his flying sword from afar.


    "Crackling~" All the fleeing soldiers were killed, none left alive. Then, the flying swords returned and aimed at the soldiers who were fighting his disciples.


    "Whoosh whoosh~" In a battle of mismatched levels, the white-robed man''s flying swords shot towards the soldiers. In an instant, the struggling soldiers were overwhelmed. Either they were killed by the white-robed man''s flying swords or by his disciples'' sword formation.


    In the end, only one soldier was left, looking in horror at the dead bodies around him.


    "Don''t kill me, please don''t kill me!" the soldier cried out in terror.


    With an angry expression, the white-robed man flew over.


    "Kill my disciples, and you expect me not to kill you? Speak, why did you kill my disciples?" the white-robed man demanded angrily.


    Meanwhile, the eldest senior brother quickly gathered the bodies of his three deceased disciples and walked over to his master with a look of anger.


    "Elder, I was just following orders. Because the guide saw Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou sitting in that carriage earlier, he thought they were inside the g formation. If we had known it was you, we would never have dared," the soldier said in fear.


    "You didn''t know? You didn''t bother to ask? You killed my disciples, so you must die!" the white-robed man roared angrily. "Elder, we really didn''t know," the soldier said fearfully.


    But the white-robed man was clearly not a benevolent person. With a wave of his long sword, he split the soldier''s body in half.


    "Master, Junior Brother, Thirteenth Junior Brother, and Twenty-Sixth Junior Brother are dead. There''s no saving them," the eldest senior brother said sorrowfully.


    The white-robed man turned his head to look at his three dead disciples, then nced at the carriage not far away. His eyes turned cold as he said, "Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan? Search for them, search the Miasma Forest."


    "Yes," the disciples responded.


    On the mountain, Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou exchanged a bitter nce, a hint of bitterness shing in their eyes.


    Sure enough, the group of disciples quickly found Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou shortly after rushing into the Miasma Forest.


    "Master, they''re here," the eldest senior brother suddenly shouted.


    "Whoosh~" A group of people quickly surrounded them.


    With wide eyes and swords in hand, they all pointed towards Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou within the g formation, waiting for their master to handle the situation.


    From the white-robed man''s previous actions, Zhongshan analyzed that this person was clean and decisive, ruthless, and didn''t hesitate to ask for what he wanted. He didn''t spare the soldiers'' storage bracelets, indicating he was an extremely tough character. Such individuals were very tricky to deal with because they had few weaknesses, and external factors were unlikely to sway their resolute hearts.


    The white-robed man walked to the front and looked at the two people inside the g formation. However, his divine sense couldn''t detect anything, furrowing his brows. But the anger in his eyes remained, knowing that his most beloved disciples died because of these two.


    "Zhongshan!" Zhongshan took the initiative to step out of the g formation.


    "I know who you are, Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan. Eight million soldiers from the Great Yu Empire searched for you for more than two months. Just now, this group of people also came to chase after you," the white-robed man said.


    "It''s really unfortunate to trouble you all!" Zhongshan said.


    "Trouble? No one can trouble my disciples. Since my three disciples died because of you, then you will apany them in death!" The white-robed man said harshly, his long sword moving, evidently about to make a move.


    Princess Qianyou''s heart tightened, instinctively preparing to dodge.


    But just as Princess Qianyou was about to dodge, she was suddenly grabbed by Zhongshan''s hand.


    Escape? How could they escape? The battle just now was clearly witnessed. The white-robed man was at least in the Yuanying stage, and his disciples'' sword formation had the power of a Yuanying stage expert.


    Zhongshan suddenly looked up and burst intoughter, which was extremely abrupt and weird, especially in front of everyone. However, this sudden burst ofughter achieved the result Zhongshan expected, causing the white-robed man to pause.


    "What are youughing at?" the white-robed man said coldly.


    After the white-robed man spoke, Zhongshan paused and then looked coldly at him. "I''mughing at your ignorance. You''re ignorant of your impending doom, ignorant of your impending n extinction."


    "Humph, deceiving the public with false words," the white-robed man said coldly, preparing to strike again.


    "Do you know who I am? Do you know who she is? If you kill us today, the fifty-one of you will have no burial ground. If there''s a sect, the entire sect will be destroyed. If there''s a family, the entire family will die," Zhongshan shouted angrily, his eyes wide open.


    "Humph, who are you? Who is she? Princess Qianyou of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty, but this is Daguang, not your Daluo," the white-robed man said angrily, but his hand paused slightly.


    "This is Daguang, but what''s the difference between Daguang and Daluo? The Daguang and Daluo alliance is as one, united to destroy the Great Yu Empire. Why did I and the princesse here instead of fleeing elsewhere? Your Daguang Empire''s army is gathering here on the border, waiting to wee our arrival. It''s just that they haven''t encountered us yet. Once Princess Qianyou dies, Daguang will be the first to be held ountable. As for Daluo, you should know Princess Qianyou''s status in Daluo. When the princess dies, countless Heavenly Supreme experts will assassinate you. How many sects will protect you? How many families will save you? None will be spared, all will be wiped out," Zhongshan shouted angrily.


    After Zhongshan finished speaking, the disciples behind the white-robed man felt a sudden tension in their hearts. Their previous anger suddenly turned into a trace of worry.


    "Humph, trying to deceive me? How could Daguang and Daluo possibly form an alliance? This is just a case of killing the chicken to scare the monkey. Once the Great Yu Empire falls, Daguang will directly face the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty," the white-robed man said skeptically, but his movements slowed down significantly.


    "Hehe, you don''t believe it? Do you know why Prince Hanjue and Princess Qianyou went to the Great Yu Empire this time? It should be known everywhere that Yiyan has been removed from his position, but let me tell you, Yiyan wasn''t just removed, he''s dead. Otherwise, why would the Great Yu Empire remove him? Who would be foolish enough to remove Yiyan? They just didn''t want it to be known to outsiders. Without Yiyan, the Great Yu Empire will sooner orter belong to the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty. Do you think Daguang will get a share of the pie or try to buy more time and seize more cities from the Great Yu Empire?" Zhongshan said convincingly.


    Sure enough, the white-robed man furrowed his brows, and then his eyes turned cold. "So what? How does it concern me? If I kill you, who will know?"


    Hearing the white-robed man''s words, Zhongshan smiled inwardly and said, "Who will know? Besides you, there are fifty pairs of eyes here. Unless you kill them all."


    "Haha, these are all my disciples. If I kill you, do you think they will report me?" the white-robed man said harshly.


    And those disciples nodded, looking coldly at Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou. If they kill you, who will know?


    "Haha, report you? What if I offer ten million spirit stones plus an official position in the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty?" Zhongshan said confidently.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, the white-robed man furrowed his brows, and some of his disciples'' eyes suddenly lit up.


    "Fifty disciples, can you guarantee that they can resist temptation? Ten million spirit stones, well, for a princess of a Heavenly Dynasty, that''s too little. How about ten billion? Your disciples may just need to say a word to get ten billion spirit stones and an absolute high-ranking position. Can they all resist it? Perhaps the rewards I mentioned are still too low," Zhongshan said with a smile.


    At this point, the white-robed man also stared at Zhongshan, his eyes full of suspicion.


    "Oh, I forgot to tell you, the soldiers who died just now, the Great Yu Army will know within two days at most. By then, they will inquire, and soon they will know that we appeared here. Once we die without anyone knowing, everyone in this area will be quickly controlled. At that time, anyone seen passing through during this period will be interrogated. Did youe here and fly in the air? Have you been seen by others? As long as there''s suspicion, they''ll surely trace it back and find your sect. By then, the entire Daguang Empire will issue a warrant, directly targeting your sect or family. Perhaps your disciples can resist temptation, but can they withstand torture? You need to know, to uncover the truth, they might even extract souls and burn them with Yin Fire. Can you guarantee that they will all keep their mouths shut?" Zhongshan stared at him coldly.

 Chapter 237 - 237 Thirsty

    <h4>Chapter 237: Thirsty</h4>


    With the most tempting benefits and the most brutal tortures, Zhongshan kept speaking. Princess Qianyou stood by, watching Zhongshan with a smile.


    The Daoist man''s eyes were filled with uncertainty. Although Zhongshan''s words were exaggerated, there might still be a possibility.


    However, the grudge of the three disciples couldn''t just be let go.


    "Master," the eldest disciple immediately called out.


    The Daoist man frowned slightly, and the eldest disciple''s eyes shed with anger as he looked at Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou.


    "Master, since we can''t kill them, let the soldiers of the Great Yu Empire do it. These two..." the eldest disciple said.


    Hearing what the eldest disciple said, Zhongshan clenched his fist with a vicious intent. Princess Qianyou''s heart was filled with anger, but in the end, the Daoist man agreed to what the eldest disciple said.


    Using a spell, beams of light shot directly at Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou.


    In the next moment, Zhongshan felt his meridians sealed, like an ordinary person. The Daoist man sealed their true yuan.


    With a wave of his sleeve, the Daoist man flew out of the miasma forest with Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou,nding not far from the bodies of the soldiers of the Great Yu Empire. With another wave of his hand, arge pit appeared in the ground, and Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou were thrown into it, leaving only their heads above ground, leaning against each other.


    Zhongshan held Princess Qianyou''s hand tightly, even though only their heads were exposed above ground, he signaled for Princess Qianyou not to move.


    The two didn''t speak, and the Daoist man once again took out a formation g, inserting it into the ground around where Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou were buried. With a spell, Zhongshan felt the soil instantly be as hard as diamond.


    "Princess Qianyou, I''ve done all I can for you. I won''t kill you, but as for the Great Yu Army, I don''t care what happens to them. Whether they live or die, it''s up to you." The Daoist man said.


    After speaking, the Daoist man flew away with the bodies of the three disciples and the other disciples.


    Zhongshan let out a long sigh of relief. "We''re saved!"


    "Sir, are we really saved now?" Princess Qianyou''s head leaned against Zhongshan''s, her face full of bitterness.


    "Yeah, at least that group of troublemakers is gone. Even though my formation was corrupted by his eldest disciple, it''s still better than losing our lives." Zhongshan shook his head and smiled.


    "If it weren''t for his eldest disciple, maybe that person would have been deceived by you," Princess Qianyouughed.


    "Yeah, these people are really easy to fool. I was afraid he would kill us and then each of his disciples would stab us as a pledge. But luckily, they left. Aren''t we saved?" Zhongshan smiled.


    "Sir, you''re so bad!" Princess Qianyouughed.


    Just as Princess Qianyou finished speaking, she felt like she had misspoken, and her face turned red immediately.


    Zhongshan smiled faintly, not responding, but changing the subject: "I''m really sorry, with me, the princess has been through so much hardship."


    "Sir, each time you surprise Qianyou, enduring hardships is worth it. But what should we do next? If we wait another two days, the Great Yu Army will definitely search here again. At that time, I might be fine, but you''ll be in trouble," Princess Qianyou said.


    "In trouble? Haha, the princess is joking. When the timees, as long as the princess is willing to spend a little more spirit stones, those soldiers who want to kill me will definitely ''secretly'' let me go."


    "For you, Qianyou is naturally willing. After all, why is the Great Deer King so stingy? Two million spirit stones? Then I''ll give them twenty million spirit stones, what''s the harm?" Princess Qianyou smiled.


    Watching the nearby Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan felt a wave of relief in his heart. This sense of relief stemmed not only from Princess Qianyou''s magnanimity but also from the fact that the Red Luan Pink Lotus in his brow had recovered.


    The omen of great cmity had been resolved. What a cause for celebration. However, if the Red Luan Pink Lotus hadn''t warned them beforehand, things might not have turned out so well. At the very least, when the Great Yu Army caught up with them, the myriad of Breaking Origin Arrows would have been aimed directly at him. They sought a sure kill and wouldn''t have given him time to buy them off with arge quantity of spirit stones. Because at that point, he wouldn''t have been trapped, and if anyone hesitated, he would have been shot by others. The benefit would then belong to someone else; they certainly wouldn''t waste any words and would attack him with all their might upon seeing him.


    "Let''s wait. Perhaps the first ones to arrive won''t be the Great Yu Army. As long as someone removes one g from the formation, I''ll be able to climb out," Zhongshan said.


    "The power of this formation isn''t strong; it''s just a general solidification formation used for sparring. However, for us whose true yuan has been sealed, it''s more than enough. It''s possible that someone else will pass by first. But what if it''s a demonic beast?" Princess Qianyou worried.


    "Demonic beasts? This road has been built for a long time, mostly traversed by ordinary people. There should be few demonic beasts around; otherwise, it wouldn''t have been built like this. Don''t worry, Princess. At least for now, I''m here with you," Zhongshan said.


    With their heads close together, they could feel each other''s breath as they spoke.


    "At least for now, I''m here with you!"


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words and feeling the hand that Zhongshan held in the soil, Princess Qianyou suddenly smiled faintly, a hint of contentment shing in her eyes.


    "What''s so funny, Princess?" Zhongshan asked in confusion.


    "Nothing," Princess Qianyou shook her head.


    And so, the princess of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty apanied her guard, buried in the earth and exposed to the scorching sun.


    "A leaf flew past Zhongshan, who opened his mouth and sucked it in, biting it.


    "Sir, what are you doing?" Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan in confusion, not understanding why he was holding a leaf in his mouth.


    Zhongshan ced the leaf on the ground in front of him, then turned his head, allowing his mouth to reach the ground, and lightly tapped it with a small stone to keep it from flying away.


    "Oh, I''m afraid we''ll be buried for too long and get hungry. Then we''ll have something to eat," Zhongshanughed.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Princess Qianyou was speechless. How could they possibly get hungry in just two days?


    "Sir, you''re joking!" Princess Qianyou stared at Zhongshan, showing a wry smile.


    Zhongshan smiled faintly and said nothing more.


    Soon, another leaf was blown by the wind and sucked into Zhongshan''s mouth, then ced on the ground where his mouth could reach, and secured in ce.


    Watching Zhongshan, Princess Qianyou''s eyes were full of iprehension. What was Sir doing?


    Under the scorching sun, Princess Qianyou and Zhongshan had their true yuan sealed, and it was hot. Both of them were sweating profusely.


    "Sir, it''s so hot!" Princess Qianyou frowned andined. When had the princess of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty ever suffered like this?


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshanforted her softly, "It''ll be better at night. Just wait!"


    "Mm," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    However, under the scorching sun, it was really ufortable to be ordinary people, and being buried in the soil without being able to move at all, even sweating where their hands were held together.


    Boredom filled the air as they waited, with Zhongshan always engaging in some peculiar and miraculous activity, promptly grabbing any flying leaves and arranging them neatly, almost like a bird building a nest.


    Finally, as Princess Qianyou began to doze off, the sun descended to the west, signaling the onset of evening. A crescent moon rose slowly into the sky, and the temperature began to drop. With the relief from the scorching daytime heat, they felt much morefortable. However, after the torment of the day, Princess Qianyou couldn''t help but feel a sense of exhaustion.


    Gradually closing her eyes, Princess Qianyou unexpectedly fell asleep.


    Watching the princess sleep peacefully, Zhongshan smiled faintly, gazing up at the sky, his heart filled with myriad emotions. A gentle breeze blew by, cooling the night, but Zhongshan still held onto the precious leaves, cing them within reach of his mouth on the ground. Fortunately, it was early autumn, and there were plenty of fallen leaves. In front of Zhongshan, some areas were even piled up.


    While Princess Qianyou slept, Zhongshan couldn''t fall asleep. His mind kept drifting to thoughts of his wife, Bao''er, and Kui''er. Whenever he thought of Kui''er, his heart ached, but when he thought of Ling''er and her cuteness, he couldn''t help but smile.


    In the middle of the night, Zhongshan suddenly felt a pinch from the hand he was holding. Princess Qianyou woke up, her mind still muddled from sleep, instinctively wanting to rub her eyes but finding herself unable to move.


    Realizing her situation, she gave Zhongshan a wry smile.


    "Princess," Zhongshan called softly.


    "Sir, I''m thirsty, so thirsty. The sun was scorching during the day, and I sweated a lot. Now, I really want to drink water," Princess Qianyou said softly, her tone suddenly carrying a peculiar hint, as if she were acting spoiled.


    "Thirsty?" Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Mm," Princess Qianyou nodded. Seeing Zhongshan, she knew there was no water avable. But for some reason, Princess Qianyou suddenly wanted to make things difficult for Zhongshan, as if seeing him in a difficult situation brought her a sense of warmth.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan lowered his head and gently picked up one of the leaves he had previously arranged, being extremely careful as he picked it up and slowly brought it to Princess Qianyou''s face.


    At that moment, Princess Qianyou was astonished to find that the leaf was covered with arge amount of water droplets. Was it dew?


    Did Sir keep picking leaves during the day because he knew I would be thirsty? And did he condense dew for me?


    At this moment, Princess Qianyou felt a slight warmth in her nose as she looked at Zhongshan, a warmth she hadn''t felt in a long, long time.


    This kind of care, she hadn''t experienced it for a long time. Since her mother''s death, she hadn''t experienced it at all. This warmth had always been buried deep in Princess Qianyou''s heart, buried so deeply that she thought it would never resurface. But when Zhongshan slowly brought over the leaf, as if it were plucked from the depths of her heart, she felt it once again.


    "Open your mouth, I''ll feed you," Zhongshan mumbled with the leaf in his mouth.


    "Mm," Princess Qianyou nodded lightly. At that moment, she suppressed the choking sensation and couldn''t say anything, only managing to respond with a soft "Mm."


    With their mouths connected by the leaf, Zhongshan tilted it, pouring all the dew gathered on the leaf into Princess Qianyou''s slightly dry lips.

 Chapter 238 - 238 The female ghost鈥檚 name is Ruyan

    <h4>Chapter 238: The female ghost��s name is Ruyan</h4>


    Chapter 238: The Ghostly Woman''s Mncholy Song


    As all the dew from a leaf was poured into Qianyou''s mouth, Zhongshan set the leaf down and secured it with a pebble, then opened his mouth to take another leaf and bring it over.


    At this moment, Princess Qianyou seemed to have turned into a baby, not uttering a word, just opening her mouth to ept the dew Zhongshan fed her. Her eyes stared unblinkingly at Zhongshan.


    Only when Zhongshan brought over thest leaf did Princess Qianyoue to her senses. "Sir, I''ve had enough. You drink some!"


    "I''m not thirsty," Zhongshan smiled faintly. He wanted to tilt the leaf to let the dew slide into Princess Qianyou''s mouth again.


    But Qianyou was one step ahead of Zhongshan. She held the other end of the leaf with her mouth and lifted her head, letting the dew slide into Zhongshan''s mouth.


    Zhongshan paused slightly, then opened his mouth and drank the dew from the leaf.


    Seeing Zhongshan drink, Princess Qianyou smiled faintly. "Sir, you''re more tired than I am. You picked so many leaves during the day, but you fed them all to me."


    "It''s okay. By dawn, there might be more," Zhongshan shook his head.


    But Princess Qianyou shook her head, knowing that it would be even harder to collect dew again. She made up her mind to collect more leaves herself tomorrow, at least not to let Zhongshan busy himself all day without drinking any water.


    Just as the two were about to continue speaking, they both frowned and looked towards the direction of the miasma forest in the distance. Because from that direction came the mournful and lingering singing of a woman.


    "Tears fall in the red dust, sighing for the passing of time, unable to find my beloved. I''ve waited drunk for a thousand years for you, my beloved, but you''re nowhere to be found..."


    The song was filled with a sense of mncholy longing, a deep sadness that permeated the air, as if it were a woman waiting in her boudoir for a thousand years, or a wife waiting for her husband to return from battle. Incredibly mournful, incredibly deste.


    "Tears fall in the red dust, sighing for the passing of time, unable to find my beloved. I''ve waited drunk for a thousand years for you, my beloved, but you''re nowhere to be found..."


    The singing was so intoxicating, yet in the quiet moonlight, it also gave off a chilling feeling.


    Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou exchanged nces, both filled with confusion. Who could be singing such a sorrowful song in the middle of the night? And why did the voice seem to be getting closer and closer?


    "Tears fall in the red dust, sighing for the passing of time, unable to find my beloved. I''ve waited drunk for a thousand years for you, my beloved, but you''re nowhere to be found..."


    Not long after, the two saw the person singing in the distance.


    A beautiful woman in white, her long hair flowing behind her, not touching the ground, her figure floating towards them from the distant miasma forest.


    Yuan Ying stage? Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou exchanged nces, both filled with concern. Who is this?


    As the woman approached, Zhongshan saw that her face was pale, with a slightly indifferent expression, but within that indifference was a hint of sadness.


    She continued to approach the two. Zhongshan frowned, considering whether to speak up and ask her for help, because everything seemed too strange.


    "Excuse me, do you know Xiao Bingyi?" The woman suddenly asked Princess Qianyou.


    Princess Qianyou swallowed, feeling uncertain. Who is this person? How could she ask such a question?


    "Xiao Bingyi? Who is he to you?" Princess Qianyou stared at the woman and asked.


    "He''s my husband. I can''t find him. I''ve waited for him for so long, but he''s never appeared," the woman said, her face filled with reminiscence.


    "I... I haven''t seen him!" Princess Qianyou wanted to say something else, but in the end, she chose to tell the truth.


    "Sigh, you haven''t seen him either. Sir, have you seen my husband?" The woman suddenly looked at Zhongshan.


    Seeing this woman, Zhongshan''s brows remained furrowed, because Zhongshan noticed something strange: under the moonlight, the woman didn''t have a shadow? How could that be? Who was she?


    "When was thest time you saw him?" Zhongshan countered instead of answering.


    "Thest time? About a thousand years ago, on the night of the Soul Returning Festival. I couldn''t find him anymore. He disappeared and never came home. I''ve been waiting for him for so long!" The woman said with a sad tone.


    Hearing the woman''s words, Zhongshan''s hair stood on end instinctively. The night of the Soul Returning Festival?


    "It seems, sir, that you haven''t seen my husband either. I''ll have to keep waiting," the woman said with great sadness, then turned and walked away, or rather, floated away.


    "Wait a moment. I haven''t seen him, but I can help you find him," Zhongshan called out to her as she was about to leave.


    Sure enough, as soon as Zhongshan called out, the woman stopped and turned to look at Zhongshan, then floated back to him.


    "You can find my husband?" The woman asked.


    "Yes, as long as there''s a clue, I can help you find him," Zhongshan said with great confidence.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, the woman suddenly knelt down and said to Zhongshan, "Thank you, sir!"


    "Well, could you help me pull out one of those gpoles first, and then tell me the situation? I''ll help you find him afterwards," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay," the woman immediately agreed. Then she walked to the side, grabbed one of the gpoles, and gently pulled it out.


    Immediately, Zhongshan felt much relieved. Although his true essence was sealed, Zhongshan''s physical body was still extremely strong. He quickly manipted his hands and, in no time, led Princess Qianyou out.


    Princess Qianyou had been staring at the woman all this time, because she had also sensed a fact: she had encountered a ghost!


    Aftering out, Zhongshan looked at the woman with a slight frown. Zhongshan also felt that the woman didn''t seem human, but no matter what, the woman had saved him. Zhongshan was a person who distinguished between gratitude and grudges, and he knew that this woman meant him no harm, otherwise, she would have attacked him just now. Moreover, she had just bowed to him.


    "I''m Zhongshan, and this is Princess Qianyou. What''s your name?" Zhongshan asked.


    "I''m Ruyan, sir. Ruyan begs you, sir, to help Ruyan find her husband," the woman said, crying.


    "Don''t worry, what I, Zhongshan, promise, I will definitely do. As long as he''s still in this world, I will help you find him," Zhongshan said with great determination.


    "He''s here, he must be here. Hismp is still lit. Sir, please find him," Ruyan said.


    "Hismp?" Zhongshan frowned and looked at Ruyan.


    "Yes, sir. Pleasee with me to my residence. There''s themp as proof, as well as a portrait of my husband, Xiao Bingyi," Ruyan pleaded with Zhongshan.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan conveyed a hint of request.


    "Sir, let''s go together," Princess Qianyou immediately agreed.


    "Thank you," Zhongshan said.


    "Well, have this," Princess Qianyou suddenly took out a strange lotus seed.


    Zhongshan didn''t hesitate and swallowed it. Seeing Zhongshan swallow it without even considering whether it was good or bad, Princess Qianyou smiled faintly. She also took out one and put it in her mouth.


    As the lotus seeds entered their stomachs, Zhongshan immediately felt the energy sealing his major acupoints dissipate. Could he move again?


    "Sir, follow me!" Ruyan said, then flew towards the distant miasma forest.


    Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou followed closely behind.


    Entering the miasma forest, Ruyan seemed impatient, flying ahead quickly, while Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou followed closely.


    After chasing for nearly an hour, they finally reached the depths of the miasma forest.


    In the depths of the miasma forest was arge mansion, with many courtyards. The mansion still looked brand new. On the que hung the words "Xiao Residence".


    Seeing the newly built mansion, Zhongshan couldn''t help but furrow his brows.


    Ruyan gently opened the courtyard door.


    "Sir, pleasee inside," Ruyan said.


    "Miss Ruyan, you''ve been waiting for a thousand years, is this house really from a thousand years ago?" Zhongshan frowned and asked.


    "I can create some illusions. The old Xiao Residence has long been reduced to ruins. This is something I made based on memory," Ruyan said gently.


    "Alright," Zhongshan nodded, with Princess Qianyou following them into the Xiao Residence with a puzzled expression.


    "This ce used to be a vige, where many ordinary people lived. However, when I returned on the night of the Soul Returning Festival, everything was gone. Everything, gone. Over the past thousand years, those houses have turned into ruins, but under my care, the Xiao Residence has barely maintained its former appearance," Ruyan shook her head and said.


    Entering the courtyard, there was no sign of life, no people. It looked very eerie, but Zhongshan was not frightened by this environment. Instead, he looked at Ruyan. How could such arge mansion be guarded for a thousand years?


    As for Princess Qianyou, she had been staring at Ruyan with a look of doubt and iprehension from beginning to end.


    "Could you tell us more about your husband?" Zhongshan asked.


    As they walked inside, Ruyan said, "My husband''s name is Xiao Bingyi, the only son of the Xiao family. He made a living through business and also aspired to achieve immortality. However, his talent was too poor. Although he endured ten times more hardship than others, his cultivation progress was still slower than others."


    "Business? Poor talent?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows.


    "Yes, my husband was very capable in business. In just ten years, he transformed the Xiao family from having only three rooms and a courtyard to bing one of thergest households here. With nearly a hundred servants, my husband also focused on cultivation, hoping to break through to the innate realm," Ruyan said.


    "What happened next?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "My husband worked hard in cultivation, but his talent was too poor. I watched him cultivate every day, and asionally, even I reached the peak of acquired strength through cultivation, but my husband couldn''t do it. Seeing my husband suffer in cultivation every day, my heart ached as well. I hoped to give birth to a child for him, to make him happier, but for some reason, even until the day I died, I couldn''t give him a child," Ruyan said sadly.


    "Did he remarry?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "He said he only loved me, that I was his only wife for life, so he didn''t remarry. I often advised him to take another concubine, but he always refused. My husband needed elixirs. We tried many methods to contact the prominent families in the town for cultivation, but because he offended one of them, no one was willing to help him. Even wandering cultivators, upon seeing my husband''s poor talent, showed disdain," Ruyan said sadly.


    "Offended a prominent family in cultivation?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Yes, at that time, a young master from a prominent family fancied me and wanted to trade my husband for me with a Forbidden Breaking Pill. But my husband refused, and even humiliated that young master. So, the young master became jealous, and together with other prominent families, they refused to help my husband. Anyone who helped my husband would be enemies of their families," Ruyan exined after thinking for a moment.


    "Then, wouldn''t it be even more difficult for your husband to cultivate?" Princess Qianyou furrowed her brows.


    "Yes, for the sake of cultivation, my husband took in many disciples," Ruyan said after a moment of contemtion.

 Chapter 239 - 239 Thousand Years of Waiting

    <h4>Chapter 239: Thousand Years of Waiting</h4>


    "Gathering disciples?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Gathering disciples, sending them to the immortal sect, hoping they''ll obtain the Forbidden Breaking Pill?" Zhongshan suddenly recalled.


    Surprised, Ruyan nodded. "Yes, sir, you''ve understood it correctly. That was my husband''s n. During this time, he wanted to cultivate while nurturing disciples, hoping that among them, some would catch the eye of the immortal sect and bring back the Forbidden Breaking Pill. Do you know what my husband always said?"


    "What?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "I just need a starting point. Just one starting point. I will definitely do better than anyone else," Ruyan reminisced.


    "Yes, there''s a huge gap between the innate and acquired realms. Reaching the innate realm means entering the ranks of cultivators, being able to interact with many cultivators, and go to ces inessible to those with only acquired cultivation," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    "When my husband was eighty-four years old, there was an opportunity for disciples to be recruited by the immortal sect. My husband took all his disciples there. I went too. On that day, faced with the temptation of the immortal sect, the disciples fought desperately. In the end, two of them were selected. But those two disciples didn''t ask for the Forbidden Breaking Pill for my husband. Instead, they followed the people from the immortal sect and returned to the mountain," Ruyan said sadly.


    Princess Qianyou was filled with indignation, while Zhongshan clenched his fists, his eyes flickering with uncertainty. Suddenly, Zhongshan stopped, looked up, took a deep breath, clearly feeling tumultuous inside.


    Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan curiously. What was going on with him?


    "Sir, are you okay?" Ruyan looked at Zhongshan and asked.


    "I''m fine!" Zhongshan took a long breath.


    It was too simr. This master of the Xiao family was too simr to himself. It''s just that he was luckier, and Zhong Tian finally obtained a Forbidden Breaking Pill.


    "You continue," Zhongshan said.


    At this moment, they had arrived in front of a room, and Ruyan gently pushed it open. In the northernmost part of the room, there hung a portrait. In the painting, a young and beautiful woman was Ruyan, while the other was an old man with white hair and a withered face. The old man was Xiao Bingyi.


    The painting was lifelike, depicting an affectionate scene of an old husband and a young wife.


    "This was painted when my husband was ny-four years old. It has been hanging here for a thousand years, and I''ve been protecting it, so you can still see my husband''s appearance from the past," Ruyan pointed to the portrait of the old man and said.


    "Were you already in the innate realm at that time?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Yes, I was in the innate realm. My appearance remained the same, but my husband''s life was nearing its end. In his final years, I often saw him smile bitterly alone. My heart was always filled with sorrow. My husband asked me to leave and continue on the path to immortality, but how could I leave him alone?" Ruyan showed a trace of sadness.


    "What happenedter?" Princess Qianyou looked at Ruyan.


    "A long time ago, my husband had already built a tomb. As his end approached, two yearster, when my husband was ny-six years old, he began to have trouble moving. Seeing that I refused to leave, in the end, we agreed to go hand in hand to the underworld," Ruyan said.


    "Agreed to go to the underworld together?" Princess Qianyou felt a bit mncholic.


    "We were husband and wife in life, and we will be husband and wife in death," Ruyan said. Then, she gently patted the wall corner.


    "It''s been a thousand years, and the mechanism is no longer working. Sir, please lift this floor tile," Ruyan pointed to arge tile in the corner.


    At this moment, Zhongshan also felt heavy-hearted. Looking at the old master of the Xiao family, he wondered if he would end up like this if he couldn''t obtain the Forbidden Breaking Pill. He immediately walked over and lifted the floor tile.


    As the floor tile was lifted, a downward passage was revealed. Ruyan went down directly. Zhongshan also took out a Night Pearl and followed Princess Qianyou down.


    The further they went down, therger it became. Below was arge underground chamber with manypartments, looking extremely eerie and terrifying. But no matter how terrifying it was, Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou were both cultivators. With Ruyan, a thousand-year-old vengeful spirit here, what could be scarier than that?


    Ruyan led the two of them around for a while until they reached thergest chamber.


    In the chamber, there was arge stone coffin, very conspicuous.


    "Right here," Ruyan pointed to the stone coffin.


    "May I open it?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Please, sir," Ruyan said.


    Handing the Night Pearl to Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan gently pushed the coffin lid, revealing a slight gap from which a faint light emanated.


    With a heavy heart, Zhongshan continued to push until the lid was fully open, revealing the interior.


    There was some space inside the stone coffin, allowing air to flow in. At one end of the coffiny a circr box with a tai chi yin-yang fish pattern on it. On top of the box, at the eyes of the yin-yang fish, were two wicks, emitting a faint glow��one me lit, the other extinguished. Beneath the wicks was a peculiar kind ofmp oil that hadn''t burned out even after a thousand years.


    Inside the coffin, there was another set of bones lying on their side. Underneath the bonesy a pile of ck ash. And around the neck of the bones was a ne called "Heart''s Knot," made from our blood back then.


    Zhongshan didn''t touch anything and instead looked at Ruyan.


    "These bones are mine, and the ne around its neck is the token of love my husband gave me back then, called the ''Heart''s Knot.'' It symbolizes our eternal unity, living and dying together, never to be separated. And that there is the Eternal Lamp made from our blood," Ruyan exined.


    "Heart''s Knot?" Princess Qianyou looked at the ne, touched by the sentiment.


    "What happened that day? How did you die?" Zhongshan furrowed his brow.


    "On that day, my husband sent away all the people from our family and came here with me. He lit the Eternal Lamp, closed the coffin lid, embraced me, and we swallowed cinnabar together, preparing to go to the underworld," Ruyan said.


    "Embraced you? Swallowed cinnabar? Did you swallow it?" Zhongshan asked, his brow furrowing even more.


    "We did. He fed me, and I fed him. After swallowing the cinnabar, we hugged tightly, hand in hand, ready to go to the underworld together," Ruyan said.


    "But, Xiao Bingyi disappeared," Zhongshan said, his brow furrowed.


    "Yes, my husband disappeared. When I returned on the night of the Ghost Festival, he was gone. When I went out, I found that everyone nearby was gone too. With no one left, I waited here, waiting for my husband to return. But this wait hassted a thousand years, and I''m tired, very tired. Please, sir, you must help me find my husband," Ruyan pleaded with Zhongshan.


    "Miss Ruyan, you can rest assured. I, Zhongshan, have never broken my promise. But are you sure Xiao Bingyi is still in this world? After all, it''s been a thousand years. His constitution may have perished long ago," Zhongshan said.


    "No, he''s not. His Eternal Lamp is still burning. As long as he enters the underworld, themp will go out. He may have died, but his soul hasn''t dispersed, nor has it entered the underworld. He''s still in this world," Ruyan said, pointing to themp with only one lit wick.


    Zhongshan was puzzled, looking at Princess Qianyou.


    "This is how the Eternal Lamp works. Blood is infused into themp oil with a trace of soul binding. As long as the soul is in this world, themp will not extinguish. Once the soul disperses or enters the underworld, themp will go out," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "In that case, have you been to the underworld?" Princess Qianyou suddenly looked at Ruyan.


    "Yes, I waited down there for seven days but didn''t see my husband. So, I took the opportunity of the Ghost Festival toe back. However, when I returned, my husband''s remains were gone, but his Eternal Lamp hadn''t gone out yet, meaning he''s still in this world," Ruyan shook her head, filled with sorrow.


    "However, a ghost cannot stay in the mortal realm alone for such a long time. For a thousand years, unless someone keeps infusing you with yin energy," Princess Qianyou said.


    Ruyan nced at Princess Qianyou, shook her head without answering, and looked at Zhongshan. "Sir, can you find my husband?"


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan looked at the stone coffin, feeling a mixture of emotions. Xiao Bingyi hadn''t died, but in such dire circumstances, how could he survive? Not to mention his constitution, which was simr to his own. Even if they had swallowed cinnabar back then, it was a death trap. How did he survive until now? How did he live for a thousand years?


    "Have the people who used to live near Xiao Fu ever reappeared?" Zhongshan asked.


    "No, on the night of the Ghost Festival, there was no one left here. Soon after, the miasma enveloped the area. For a thousand years, I asked many mortals passing through this ce, but no one knows, no one recognizes my husband," Ruyan looked at Zhongshan, shaking her head.


    Zhongshan furrowed his brow. His heart was filled with mixed feelings because he had already guessed a possibility from Ruyan''s words. But Zhongshan was unwilling to believe, unwilling to believe in that possibility because if it were true, it would also touch upon the soft spot in his heart.


    "Could it be that Xiao Bingyi''s disciples finally came back?" Princess Qianyou suddenly said.


    Hearing Princess Qianyou''s spection, Zhongshan took a deep breath. At this moment, he had to face this contradiction.


    "It''s impossible. Xiao Bingyi''s two disciples didn''t care about him at all. They looked cold and disdainful towards us," Ruyan shook her head.


    "Disdainful? At that time, you were extremely disappointed, so there might have been some bias in your perception. In any case, this possibility exists," Princess Qianyou said.


    "No, it''s not possible," Ruyan shook her head.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan looked at Ruyan. "Who can know what happened back then? Which sect took an interest in Xiao Bingyi''s disciples? Let''s go ask."


    "It''s impossible. They wouldn''te back," Ruyan said, disbelief in her tone.


    "At least let''s ask and see if they know anything about Xiao Bingyi''s whereabouts. We have to ask to have a chance to find out," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay, I only know that both of them joined the ''Azure Cloud Sect.'' I don''t know anything else," Ruyan said after thinking for a moment.


    "Alright, let''s go to the Azure Cloud Sect and see. We''lle back and tell you," Zhongshan said.


    "No, I''ll go with you," Ruyan looked at Zhongshan.


    "Alright," Zhongshan nodded at Ruyan.

 Chapter 240: Too Great a Gamble

    <h4>Chapter 240: Too Great a Gamble</h4>


    Amidst the dense mountain forest, beyond a mystical barrier shrouded in mist, stood a massive stone monument.


    Cangyun Sect!


    In the vast square before the Cangyun Sect, a robed man stood, surveying the fifty disciples behind him. He nced around cautiously before speaking in a stern tone: "What transpired before must not be divulged to anyone. You must not mention the direction we went in either. Anyone who disobeys will be expelled from the sect immediately." The robed manmanded.


    "Yes, sir," the disciples responded in unison.


    With that, the robed man led the disciples into the mountain-guarding formation��


    In the Da Yu region, beside a gentle stream, Yi Yan reclinedzily, a fishing rod in his hand. Around him, servants and handmaidens bustled about, attending to his every need. Standing behind Yi Yan was the Iron-Blood General, who cast a worried nce at his former superior. The others kept their distance, wary of the man who once held immense power.


    "Grand Marshal!" the Iron-Blood General called out with a furrowed brow.


    "Iron-Blood, I am no longer the Grand Marshal. There''s no need to address me as such," Yi Yan said with a faint smile, watching the fishing float bob in the stream.


    "In my heart, Da Yu has only one Grand Marshal, and that is you, sir. No matter what happens, nothing can shake my loyalty. You taught me so much. Without your guidance, I would still be a brute who only knew how to fight. Everything I am today is because of you," the Iron-Blood General said earnestly.


    "Heh, let the past be the past. Let''s keep our discussions here personal. No politics," Yi Yan chuckled.


    "Grand Marshal, despite the efforts of King Julu and his 800,000 soldiers, they couldn''t stop Zhong Shan and a group ofmoners from reaching the Daguang Empire. They didn''t even catch a glimpse of them," the Iron-Blood General said, unable to hold back.


    Though Yi Yan had asked to avoid discussing state affairs, it was clear he still cared. He paused for a moment, a flicker of surprise crossing his face before he returned to his usual calm demeanor. "Don''t bring this up again. From now on, I want to enjoy my life."


    Seeing Yi Yan''s disinterest, the Iron-Blood General wanted to say more but held back, sighing deeply instead.


    Sensing the general''s disheartenment, Yi Yan suddenly spoke, "Iron-Blood, tell your men to stop chasing them. Once Zhong Shan reaches the Daguang Empire, he will be out of our grasp."


    "Yes, sir," the Iron-Blood General replied, regaining his resolve��


    Inside King Julu''s tent.


    "My lord, two days ago, Princess Qianyou and her party reached that small town. They shouldn''t be far," a kneeling officer reported.


    "Not far? If it weren''t for your subordinates'' reckless ambition, we would have captured Princess Qianyou by now. Instead, 300 soldiers died for nothing, and Zhong Shan escaped!" King Julu fumed.


    At this, Wu An, standing nearby, interjected, "My lord, regardless, we have a general idea of their direction now. Our search area has been reduced. We should find them soon."


    "Hmm," King Julu nodded in agreement��


    In a mountain forest.


    Since Princess Qianyou''s flying swordcked the essence of clouds, Zhong Shan used his de to carry her, skimming close to the ground. Princess Qianyou, having regained her strength to the Golden Core stage, could now endure the ride''s bumps and jolts. Ruyan floated alongside them, her movement so eerie that it seemed as if she was drifting rather than flying.


    "Miss Ruyan, are those two items all you''re bringing?" Zhong Shan asked with a furrowed brow.


    "Yes, the Lovesick Token and the painting are enough," Ruyan replied coolly.


    "Earlier, I asked someone, and what a coincidence it is. The Cangyun Sect still stands. It''s located 30,000 li south of Forget Worry City," Zhong Shan said.


    "Thank you, sir, for your efforts regarding Ruyan," Ruyan said respectfully.


    "Miss Ruyan, please, no need for such formalities," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Floating gracefully in mid-air, Ruyan bowed respectfully to Zhong Shan.


    Seeing her sincerity, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and did not obstruct her further.


    "Sir, the soldier you interrogated earlier was from the Daguang Empire. From him, we learned that not only is the Dayu Empire pursuing us, but now the Daguang Empire''s troops are also searching for us. Their mobilization is no less extensive than that of Dayu," Princess Qianyou said with a faint smile.


    "It doesn''t matter. The more troops from both empires, the better," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Indeed," Princess Qianyou agreed.


    Three dayster, in a secluded valley.


    "Miss Ruyan, I entrust you with this task," Zhong Shan said, handing over a stack of small letters to Ruyan.


    "Rest assured, sir. This is a small matter, and Ruyan willplete it for you," Ruyan nodded.


    "Yes, we are now in a difficult situation. Search parties are everywhere, and we cannot travel freely. Only by slipping these letters undetected onto the soldiers of Dayu can we safely reach the Cangyun Sect," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Sir, you can wait here. As soon as theynd, I will slip the letters into their clothes without them noticing," Ruyan assured.


    "Thank you for your trouble," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Ruyan, holding the stack of letters, instantly walked into the mountain, as if she had simply passed through its solid form.


    The valley was left with only Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou.


    "Sir, Ruyan is a spirit entity. She cannot be detected by divine senses and can move through the ground. As long as the soldiersnd, she can slip the letters into their clothes without a sound. However, if the letters are just ced in their clothes, will the Daguang generals believe them? The obvious nature of this frame-up will be clear to anyone. They will surely wonder why the letters weren''t ced in a storage bracelet but in their clothes instead," Princess Qianyou said with a smile.


    "If the princess can guess this much, why ask me?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    Caught by Zhong Shan''s perceptiveness, Princess Qianyou blushed slightly and said, "The issue isn''t about the number of letters but whether the Daguang generals dare to gamble on their authenticity. I suspect they won''t dare. I figured out this much, but there''s one thing I don''t understand and would like to ask you, sir."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at Princess Qianyou curiously.


    "I''ve noticed that you are very passionate about matters concerning Miss Ruyan," Princess Qianyou said, frowning.


    "Heh, Ruyan once saved my life, and I promised her something. Naturally, I am passionate about fulfilling that promise," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "No, it seems that your eagerness to reach the Cangyun Sect goes beyond repaying a debt or keeping a promise. It''s as if you have a deep longing to reach the Cangyun Sect as quickly as possible, and you''ve prioritized it over all other clues. Why is that? Have you heard of the Cangyun Sect before?" Princess Qianyou asked, staring intently at Zhong Shan.


    Upon hearing Princess Qianyou''s question, Zhong Shan''s smiling expression turned serious. He took a deep breath and looked up at the sky, saying, "I must go to the Cangyun Sect, not just for Ruyan, but also to seek an answer for myself."


    Zhong Shan''s expression turned wistful, as if he was both yearning for and dreading the answer he sought.


    Seeing the trace of sorrow sh across Zhong Shan''s face, Princess Qianyou realized she had touched on a sensitive topic and quickly changed the subject��


    In a military camp closest to Zhong Shan''s location, inside the central tent.


    "General, we found this letter on one of the Dayu soldiers," a soldier reported respectfully.


    In the center of the tent, a general looked at the letter with a mixture of doubt and concern. On his desky three identical letters.


    "General, the signs of this frame-up are too ring. The letters were found in their clothes instead of their storage bracelets," a nearby officer remarked, his tone full of suspicion.


    The general furrowed his brow, staring intently at the letters.


    The officer continued, "Moreover, the contents of the letters im that the Dayu army is conspiring with the Lord of Forget Worry City? That the city gates are wide open, waiting for the Dayu troops to enter? This setup is too shallow. Yes, the city gates are open during the day, but would the Dayu army reallye? And even if they did, would each soldier carry a letter? Why were the letters found in their clothes instead of their storage bracelets? It''s too obvious!"


    "Send these letters to my father immediately. Inform the troops to prepare for movement towards Forget Worry City. Prepare for battle," the general ordered.


    "General, shouldn''t we report this to the Grand Marshal? This might be a ruse by Princess Qianyou and Zhong Shan to nt these letters secretly. Didn''t the Grand Marshal say that Dayu''s target is Princess Qianyou and Zhong Shan?" the officer asked, confused.


    "nting letters? Try it yourself. Among ten captured soldiers, five had letters. How could they have been nted without them knowing? Yes, my father mentioned that the battlefield is unpredictable, and we must remain vignt. Forget Worry City is a critical chokepoint for the Daguang Empire. What if we lose it? Can you bear that responsibility? This gamble is too great for any of us. Compared to the loss of Princess Qianyou, the fate of the city is far more crucial. We will proceed to Forget Worry City and prepare forbat," the general replied firmly.


    "Understood," the officer responded immediately��


    The Pursuit


    In arge tent within the Dayu Empire''s camp.


    "General, our scouts spotted Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou heading towards Forget Worry City. Due to the presence of arge number of Daguang troops, they didn''t dare pursue them further, but their direction was clear," a soldier reported respectfully.


    "Good, inform the troops to advance swiftly and capture Princess Qianyou and Zhong Shan. We must move quickly," the general in the tentmanded.


    "General, shouldn''t we wait for the prince?" another soldier suggested.


    "There''s no time. By the time the prince arrives, they will have escaped again. We''ll lead the troops and march ahead. Send a message to King Julu. Concentrate all efforts towards Forget Worry City. This time, we must capture them," the general insisted.


    "Yes, sir."

 Chapter 241: A Den of Cowards

    <h4>Chapter 241: A Den of Cowards</h4>


    Inside the Cangyun Hall of Cangyun Sect, an ethereal-looking man stood with his hands behind his back, a look of intense anger shing in his eyes. His brows furrowed deeply, showing his mounting frustration.


    At that moment, three people slowly walked into the hall from outside. Leading the group was the robed man who had previously buried Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou. Behind him were two expressionless individuals. As they entered the hall, the person to the right of the robed man spoke up, "Sect Master, we have brought Senior Brother Qiushui."


    "You two may leave now," the Sect Master, who had been standing in the hall all along, instructed curtly.


    "Yes, sir," the two behind immediately retreated.


    "Second Uncle," called out Qiushui, the man who had buried Zhong Shan, after the others had left.


    "Kneel!" the Sect Mastermanded, his eyes zing.


    "Second Uncle, what''s the matter?" Qiushui frowned in confusion.


    "I said kneel!" the Sect Master roared.


    Reluctantly, Qiushui knelt down, his brows knitted together in frustration and puzzlement.


    "Where did you go six days ago?" the Sect Master demanded in a stern voice.


    Upon hearing this, Qiushui''s eyes twitched as he immediately realized that the incident from that day had been revealed. In the entire Cangyun Sect, only his fifty disciples knew about it. Who could have betrayed him?


    "Second Uncle, who told you?" Qiushui asked immediately.


    "Who told me? Hmph, you still think you can hide this from me?" the Sect Master barked.


    "I did nothing wrong. Second Uncle, three of my disciples died because of Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou. Not killing them was already an act of mercy. I did nothing wrong," Qiushui retorted stubbornly.


    "Hmph, I''m not talking about that. I''m talking about that ce. What were you doing there?" the Sect Master fumed.


    Hearing this, Qiushui frowned deeply, "That''s a forbidden area of our sect. Any disciple passing by has to detour around it. But Second Uncle, why? Why should I detour? There are no formidable sects or major cities there. Why?"


    "Why? It''s not for you to know why. That''s the rule. No one is allowed to go there, especially you," the Sect Master thundered.


    "Me? Why me?" Qiushui asked in deep frustration.


    The Sect Master looked at Qiushui, a hint of resignation shing in his eyes. "I''ll let it go this time since it''s your first offense. But if there''s a next time, you will be expelled from the sect immediately, never to return."


    Qiushui, filled with frustration, returned to his courtyard, pondering who among his disciples had betrayed him. How had it leaked so quickly? His own uncle had scolded him severely. His disciples weren''t entirely loyal to him after all. Once they reached the Nascent Soul stage, they would be his equals, and their respect was only temporary.


    Had he been wrong to take on so many disciples? Luckily, he hadn''t killed Princess Qianyou back then, otherwise, someone might have betrayed him again.


    As Qiushui was lost in thought, trying to identify the betrayer, he heard footsteps approaching from outside.


    "Master," came the call from his eldest disciple outside.


    Qiushui got up and gently opened the door. "What is it?"


    "Master, they havee to the door," his eldest disciple said with a strange expression.


    "Who?" Qiushui frowned.


    "Princess Qianyou and that Zhong Shan. They''ve brought a ghost with them and are asking to see the Sect Master at the mountain gate," the disciple said, his tone odd.


    "It''s them?" Qiushui''s eyes widened in shock, then his expression shifted to one of contemtion.


    "Find someone unfamiliar and lead them to the Cangyun Square. Also, I only found out in the past couple of days that it''s not the Grand Radiance or Great Luo Alliance; it turns out even Grand Radiance wants to capture them. Very well, if I catch them, you must immediately go to my grandfather and tell him I''ve already captured Princess Qianyou and Zhong Shan," Qiushui said after some thought.


    "Yes," the senior disciple responded immediately.


    At the entrance of the Cangyun Sect.


    Zhong Shan, Princess Qianyou, and Ruyan stood quietly, waiting. The messenger had already gone inside.


    "Mister, even from tens of thousands of miles away, I can feel the battle before Wangyou City," Princess Qianyou said with a smile.


    "Indeed. This is a sensitive region. The Grand Radiance army intercepted a ''secret message'' in advance and saw that the Dayu army was indeed attacking Wangyou City. Naturally, there will be a fierce battle. However, the fight shouldn''tst long. Soon, themanders of the two armies will meet. Once they do, King Julu will have to withdraw all of Dayu''s forces. At that point, we won''t have to worry about being pursued by the Dayu army," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "We have Ruyan to thank for this," Princess Qianyou said, looking at Ruyan.


    "The young master is searching for a husband for me. Naturally, Ruyan is at your service for such a small matter," Ruyan said calmly.


    Zhong Shan looked at Ruyan, feeling a peculiar emotion. He noticed that Ruyan had never smiled, her expression always serene and detached. Could it be that after waiting for a thousand years, she had forgotten other emotions?


    "Miss Ruyan, the first time I saw you, you were singing a heart-wrenching song..." Zhong Shan pondered and asked.


    "That song was taught to me by my husband. It was the first song he ever taught me. For a thousand years, I have waited for him in vain, guarding the Xiao family. Whenever my heart grew cold, I would sing that song to warm it. That day was no different," Ruyan said.


    "A cold heart?" Upon hearing this, Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow and began to ponder the meaning behind her words.


    "Please follow me," a man said, emerging slowly from within the great formation of the Cangyun Sect.


    "Much obliged!" Zhong Shan replied, then followed the man with Princess Qianyou and Ruyan.


    It wasn''t long before they arrived at arge square.


    "Please wait here," the greeter said.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The man left quickly. Standing in the square, Zhong Shan looked around. There were numerous mountains and floating inds surrounding them. Compared to the Kaiyang Sect, this sect seemed muchrger.


    "Mister, something feels off," Princess Qianyou suddenly said with a frown.


    "Indeed, something is amiss. But regardless, we need to meet the Sect Master of the Cangyun Sect to inquire about Xiao Bingyi''s two adopted sons," Zhong Shan said, furrowing his brows. This wasn''t just for Ruyan; he, too, was desperate for answers.


    "Heh, Princess Qianyou, Zhong Shan, you are indeed lucky. Not only did you escape, but you also found your way here," a sudden voice echoed.


    Zhong Shan frowned and looked in the direction of the voice. Not far away, a man in a Taoist robe, who had buried him the previous day, approached slowly with his two dozen disciples.


    Seeing this group, Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes. It really is a small world.


    "Quite the coincidence, but today we are not here for you. We wish to see the Sect Master of the Cangyun Sect," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "See the Sect Master? Heh, I have been wondering how you managed to escape that time. It must have been the ghost by your side, right? It is no longer a mere specter; it has solidified enough to dismantle the g formation. I just so happen to need a powerful Yin soul to refine a Pure Yin Pill. Give it to me, and I will let you see the Sect Master," Qiushui said with a sneer.


    Upon hearing Qiushui''s words, Zhong Shan immediately realized that he was intentionally looking for trouble and had not informed the Sect Master of the Cangyun Sect at all.


    Ruyan looked at him calmly, her face expressionless, while a trace of coldughter shed in Princess Qianyou''s eyes. To be honest, since Princess Qianyou''s strength had returned to the Golden Core stage, she no longer feared this group. This was because, at this point, she could already use the ''Forbidden God Sphere'' she had refined through a secret method.


    Zhong Shan, holding back his rage from being trapped that day, treated them with courtesy. On one hand, he was in another sect''s territory, and on the other, he had important matters to verify. However, after taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan shouted loudly, "Is the Cangyun Sect full of cowards? Is this how you treat guests? Laughable to the world������������������������������"


    Zhong Shan''s voice boomed with all his might, echoing for miles, spreading throughout the entire Cangyun Sect. His voice reverberated, ensuring that anyone not in seclusion could hear it.


    "Scoundrel��������������������"


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s abrupt shout, Qiushui''s face flushed red with anger. In his fury, he was about to unsheathe his flying sword.


    At that moment, Princess Qianyou also unleashed a small blue orb. The orb expanded as it flew towards Qiushui. Qiushui''s eyes widened, his flying sword darted out, but the orb seemed to be an illusion, untouchable. It wasn''t until it was right in front of him that Qiushui realized it was real, but it was toote. In an instant, he was trapped inside.


    Everything happened too quickly. Before the disciples could react, Qiushui was already ensnared.


    However, due to Princess Qianyou''s current limited strength, the Forbidden God Sphere was showing signs of strain under Qiushui''s resistance, as wrinkles appeared on its surface, indicating it was about to break.


    "Capture them!" Qiushuimanded.


    The disciples raised their swords and advanced.


    Zhong Shan waved his hand, signaling Princess Qianyou to step back. He grasped his massive de, "Nightmare," in his hand.


    <strong>Demon Body Refinement Technique! Fourth Stage!</strong>


    Zhong Shan swung his de with full force at the leading disciple.


    With a powerful strike, a massive de arc over twenty meters long shed forward. Surrounding the arc, de energy whirled, creating a storm-like effect as it surged towards the frontmost disciple.


    This strike was incredibly powerful, but it wasn''t meant to cause severe harm. Zhong Shan''s intent was to intimidate the others.


    "Boom����������������������������������"


    The lead disciple was sent flying, and simultaneously, over a hundred lightning pirs suddenly appeared in mid-air, crashing towards the other approaching disciples.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!......."


    Lightning shed and thunder roared, as if divine retribution had descended, thunderous and wrathful. The disciples retreated in fear, the ground of the square shattered, debris flew, and dust swirled.


    With just one strike, only one strike, Zhong Shan had forced the twenty-odd Golden Core disciples back. It was a powerful strike. Although the Golden Core disciples were not injured, they were driven to the edges, each one filled with lingering fear.

 Chapter 242: The Ten Halls

    <h4>Chapter 242: The Ten Halls</h4>


    In the Cangyun Sect, inside the Cangyun Hall.


    The Sect Master of Cangyun Sect was discussing matters with a few senior brothers when suddenly, the loud voice of Zhong Shan echoed throughout the entire Cangyun Sect.


    "Is the Cangyun Sect full of cowards? Is this how you treat guests? Laughable to the world������������������������������"


    This loud shout interrupted the conversations inside the Cangyun Hall. The Sect Master frowned and said, "Who dares to behave so rudely in my Cangyun Sect?"


    Leading the way, the Sect Master exited the hall, followed closely by eight senior brothers.


    With a single step, they headed towards the direction of the voice.


    Flying in the air, the nine of them quickly saw the square below, where thunder rumbled and over a hundred lightning pirs descended like a hundred swords raining down. The square was instantly filled with countless fragments of shattered stone, flying in all directions.


    The nine of them approached swiftly and witnessed the power of Zhong Shan''s single strike. Although it wasn''t something that would catch the eyes of the strongest, Zhong Shan''s strength was immediately evident��a Fifth Stage Golden Core cultivator? What a domineering strike.


    Princess Qianyou stood behind Zhong Shan, not intervening. On one hand, Zhong Shan did not allow her to, but Zhong Shan alone was enough. His goal was simply to intimidate these people and dy until the Sect Master of Cangyun Sect arrived. Once the Sect Master was here, Princess Qianyou would step in, preventing further conflict.


    The Sect Master, leading a group, swiftly descended to the square. One of the Sect Master''s followers waved a hand, and the smoke on the square dispersed instantly, while another follower struck out with a palm.


    "Pop"


    Qiushui was released from the orb.


    "Second Uncle, these are Princess Qianyou and Zhong Shan. They caused troublest time, and now they''re back at the Cangyun Sect with a ghost in tow!" Qiushui, upon being freed, immediately started toin, ying the victim.


    "p����������������������������������"


    Qiushui was sent flying, pped away by the Sect Master.


    The followers behind the Sect Master widened their eyes in extreme disbelief. What happened? Why would the Sect Master, regardless of the circumstances, strike Qiushui at this moment? The Cangyun Sect members should stand united, especially now. Whether Qiushui was at fault or not, the Sect Master shouldn''t have pped him here; such matters should be handled privately.


    "Master," one of them called out in confusion, but the Sect Master ignored himpletely.


    "Master," "Master"... Qiushui''s disciples rushed forward to support him.


    Qiushui, holding his face, stared at the Sect Master in utter disbelief. A p? His Second Uncle pped him? His Second Uncle had never struck him before. Why? Why?


    Qiushui''s eyes were filled with disbelief, and everyone looked at the Sect Master in extreme confusion. Why would he do this? Was it for the Da Luo Celestial Empire''s princess? It didn''t seem right. The Sect Master was not that kind of person. Why?


    No one understood, but the Sect Master himself appeared somewhat dazed.


    The Sect Master wasn''t looking at Zhong Shan or Princess Qianyou, but rather at the "ghost" Qiushui had mentioned��the hovering spirit, Ruyan.


    Ruyan, her expression calm, looked at the Sect Master. The Sect Master took two steps forward, his eyes filled with confusion and a questioning gaze.


    Everyone watched, puzzled, not understanding what was going on with the Sect Master.


    "Xiao Yuanfeng," Ruyan spoke softly.


    The "ghost" mentioned by Qiushui suddenly spoke. Her first words, however, called out an utterly unfamiliar name��a name no one had ever heard before. Xiao Yuanfeng? Who was Xiao Yuanfeng?


    As everyone was still puzzled.


    <strong>Chapter 242: The Ten Halls (Continued)</strong>


    "Thud������������������������"


    The Sect Master of Cangyun Sect suddenly knelt down.


    His unexpected kneeling sent a wave of confusion among the people behind him. Should we kneel too? What''s happening? Why is the Sect Master kneeling to a ghost?


    Who is she? Even Qiushui, at this moment, stared wide-eyed at his uncle. Why? Why is Uncle kneeling to her? Who is she?


    After kneeling, tears welled up in the Sect Master''s eyes as he said, "I''m sorry, I didn''t know, none of us knew!"


    "Do you still have contact with Xiao Bingyi?" Ruyan ignored the Sect Master''s apology and instead asked him a question.


    Everyone watched the interaction between the person and the ghost with puzzled expressions. Xiao Bingyi? Who is Xiao Bingyi?


    "Yes, yes, we do!" the Sect Master replied.


    "I''ll wait in the front hall. You inform him toe," Ruyan said indifferently.


    "Yes, yes, I''ll do that immediately!" the Sect Master responded quickly.


    Ruyan then floated towards the distant hall, followed closely by Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou. At this moment, no one dared to stop them; no one even attempted to block their path.


    The Sect Master remained kneeling on the ground, watching as Ruyan, Zhong Shan, and Princess Qianyou headed towards the distant hall.


    "Senior Brother, who is she?" a junior brother behind the Sect Master asked in disbelief.


    "Notify my foster father. You, and you, go now, quickly, quickly!" The Sect Master stood up and urgently ordered two of his men.


    "Notify? Notify about what? What should we say?" the one supporting the Sect Master asked.


    "Just tell him that Ruyan is here. My foster father will understand. Hurry, not a moment to lose." The Sect Master, still kneeling, refused to rise.


    At that moment, memories from a thousand years ago flooded back to the Sect Master. His foster mother had died, but her wandering soul had been adrift in the world for a thousand years. How did she, a lonely ghost, survive all those years? This overwhelming guilt weighed heavily on the Sect Master, causing him to remain kneeling. Even as the esteemed Sect Master of Cangyun Sect, it didn''t matter. That was his mother, and this kneeling was done without regard for what others might think.


    Everyone knew that the situation had be extremely grave. Who was this female ghost? What was her true identity?


    The person designated by the Sect Master quickly flew out of Cangyun Sect, heading out urgently, while Qiushui, holding the mark left by the Sect Master''s palm on his face, looked on in shock and disbelief. What was the origin of this ghost? No wonder his uncle had pped him. The ghost must be extremely important to his uncle, so much so that he was pped just for calling her a "ghost," and his uncle was now kneeling in guilt.


    Everyone stood silently, the situation bing increasingly bizarre��


    <strong>The Great Deer King''s Tent</strong>


    The Great Deer King was reprimanding a general. This general was the one who had led the troops to attack Wangyou City earlier, and his body now bore signs of battle, indicating he had encountered strong resistance.


    "I ask you now, why did you start a fight with the Daguang army without reason? What about my previous instructions?" the Great Deer King asked coldly.


    "Your Highness, someone saw Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou at the time. I was following orders to capture them. Who could have known the Daguang army would attack without asking questions?" the general responded, looking aggrieved.


    "Ask? What do they need to ask? This is Daguang territory; seeing you, of course, they attacked. Didn''t I tell you to avoid the Daguang army if you saw them?" the Great Deer King said angrily.


    The general opened his mouth, lookingpletely innocent.


    "Your Highness, someone outside requests an audience. He ims to know the whereabouts of Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou," reported a soldier from outside the tent.


    "Let him in," the Great Deer King said, frowning.


    Subsequently, a man entered from outside the tent. If Zhong Shan were here, he would immediately recognize him as one of Qiushui''s disciples. After seeing Zhong Shan head to Cangyun Sect, this disciple, driven by greed, had recklessly ventured into the Great Deer King''s camp.


    nside the vast hall of the Cangyun Sect, Zhong Shan, Princess Qianyou, and Ruyan stood quietly. Outside, at a respectful distance, the Sect Master of Cangyun Sect knelt on the ground, burdened by a millennium of guilt that he carried on behalf of his foster father. With the Sect Master in such a state, no one dared to venture into the hall uninvited.


    Inside the hall, Ruyan bowed deeply to Zhong Shan, her voice filled with gratitude. "My lord, Ruyan thanks you deeply for allowing me to put an end to my thousand-year wait."


    "I gave you my word, and I always keep my promises. There''s no need for such formality," Zhong Shan replied.


    Zhong Shan''s mind was a whirlwind of thoughts. He needed time to process everything and await the final oue.


    "This will be Ruyan''sst thank you, my lord. Princess Qianyou once asked me how I could remain in the world for a thousand years without fading away. On the night of my return to the world, I brought something up from the underworld, something that has kept me intact by infusing me with yin energy for a thousand years. It also contains the methods of ghost cultivation, but I only learned the arts of ''Escape'' and ''Illusion.'' I had no heart to delve further," Ruyan exined softly.


    Escape? Illusion? Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted slightly. Escape �C could it be the ability to pass through mountains? Illusion �C the power to create illusions? These weren''t innate ghost abilities but techniques she had cultivated?


    Ruyan gently took out a ck square handkerchief. It was pitch-ck like ink, exuding a faint ck aura, and seemed like an endless abyss, impossible to see the end of. On the handkerchief, two faintly glowing characters, tinged with blue and red, were embossed.


    <strong>Ten Halls!</strong>


    Was this ck handkerchief called ''Ten Halls''? No, it seemed the ghost cultivation technique within it was called ''Ten Halls.''


    <strong>Ten Halls?</strong> This must havee from the underworld.


    "My lord, I know you are a man of clear distinctions between right and wrong, and so am I. This ''Ten Halls'' is the only thing I can give you in return for your kindness. Please ept it," Ruyan said.


    "What about you, Miss Ruyan? What will you do now?" Zhong Shan asked, his brow furrowed.


    "I don''t need it anymore," Ruyan replied, shaking her head.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan said, not hesitating to ept the gift.


    The ''Ten Halls'' from the underworld �C there might be no other like it in the world. Zhong Shan instinctively felt that this item would be extremely useful to him in the future, so when Ruyan said she no longer needed it, Zhong Shan didn''t feign humility but instead epted it with genuine appreciation.


    The ''Ten Halls'' felt incredibly light in his hands, so light that even with his Golden Core stage cultivation, Zhong Shan could barely feel its weight. With a gentle wave of his hand, Zhong Shan put away the ''Ten Halls.''


    Having given the ''Ten Halls'' to Zhong Shan, Ruyan seemed relieved of her burden. She nodded slightly to Zhong Shan. Meanwhile, Princess Qianyou, after a brief nce, turned her attention to the outside of the hall, leaving Ruyan alone to bestow the treasure upon Zhong Shan.

 Chapter 243: A Thousand Years of Melancholy

    <h4>Chapter 243: A Thousand Years of Mncholy</h4>


    As the crowd waited in anticipation, an unexpected sight unfolded outside the gates of Cangyun Sect. A vast army, no less than three hundred thousand strong, suddenly appeared. Each soldier exuded a formidable aura, indicating their prowess��every one of them was at least at the Golden Core stage or higher.


    This immense force was none other than the Grand Army of the Deer King, advancing swiftly with their leader at the forefront. The Deer King stood at the vanguard, his eyes glinting with determination as he gazed upon the fog-shrouded grand formation of Cangyun Sect. A slight smile yed on his lips. "Good. Everyone, prepare yourselves."


    "Roar����������������������������������"


    Three hundred thousand warriors roared in unison. As the Deer King raised his arm, each soldier brandished their sword, channeling their qi into a collective strike aimed at the grand formation surrounding Cangyun Sect. The sheer force of their bellow reverberated through the heavens, prompting members of Cangyun Sect to emerge in rm, only to scurry back inside at the sight of the overwhelming army.


    Three hundred thousand sword beams!


    "Attack����������������������������������" The Deer King bellowed.


    "Attack��������������������������������������������������"


    The three hundred thousand soldiers echoed his cry, their voices thundering across thend, shaking the very foundations of the mountains and valleys. Birds scattered in panic, and beasts fled wildly. Even the most rugged peaks crumbled under the force of thebined shout, an overwhelming sonic wave that ttened everything in its path.


    The soldiers'' synchronized actions were even more formidable. Three hundred thousand sword beams sliced towards the grand formation of Cangyun Sect with devastating power. Each warrior unleashed their mightiest strike, a collective assault of unimaginable strength. The weakest among them were at the Golden Core stage, with countless Nascent Soul stage cultivators, over twenty Fusion stage generals, and even the Emperor Realm powerhouses like the Deer King and Wu An.


    It was an overwhelming strike.


    Under this colossal attack, the grand formation of Cangyun Sect shone like aet striking the earth, radiating light in all directions.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������������������������������"


    The terrifying impact seemed to warp the very fabric of space around it. While the power of one person might be limited, thebined force of ten or a hundred was immense. And here, it was the synchronized strike of three hundred thousand warriors. Despite the formidable defense of the Cangyun Sect''s grand formation, it couldn''t withstand the sheer number of assants. The formation twisted under the pressure, expanding and then bursting outward in a blinding explosion. The force shattered the formation, sending debris of mountains and trees flying into the sky. Dust and smoke billowed up in great clouds.


    Cangyun Sect was destroyed!


    Although the people within were unharmed, the sect''s buildings were reduced to ruins. Even the floating inds copsed, mountains crumbled, and rivers reversed their flow. It was the greatest cmity Cangyun Sect had ever faced.


    As the three hundred thousand sword beams struck, the sect leader of Cangyun Sect swiftly led a few disciples towards the main hall where Zhong Shan was located. With a flurry of hand seals, he erected a protective barrier around the hall.


    The hall remained unscathed, but the rest of the secty in ruins. The disciples of Cangyun Sect stared nkly at the sky, unable toprehend the sudden appearance of such a massive army and the catastrophic destruction that followed. What was happening? How could this be real?


    Zhong Shan, Princess Qianyou, and Ruyan emerged slowly from the main hall, gazing at the smoke and debris that engulfed Cangyun Sect. Zhong Shan''s eyes flickered with disbelief. What had happened? How had Cangyun Secte to resemble the aftermath of an explosion?


    As the sect leader and the elite warriors of Cangyun Sect, along with Qiushui and others, stood on the outskirts, they gazed at the seemingly endless clouds of smoke and dust. Suddenly, a powerful gust of wind swept through the air, dispersing the smokepletely.


    Zhong Shan observed from a distance. Atop a distant mountain peak stood the Deer King and Wu An, along with a sprawling army of nearly three hundred thousand soldiers. It was clear that this vast force had wrought the destruction upon Cangyun Sect. Wu An gestured with his hands, obviously the source of the wind that had cleared the smoke.


    "Princess Qianyou, Zhong Shan, long time no see!" The Deer King shouted excitedly.


    After nearly two and a half months of searching, he had finally found them! The Deer King could hardly contain his excitement. Zhong Shan frowned slightly at the sight of the arrogant Deer King in the distance. Princess Qianyou''s eyes shed with a hint of anxiety, while Ruyan remained as serene as ever, a touch of mncholy in her expression.


    "Deer King, you are quite audacious!" A voice suddenly rang out from nowhere, filled with authority and echoing through the ruins of Cangyun Sect and beyond, even reaching the ears of the three hundred thousand soldiers. This voice was brimming with a boldness that seemed to disregard all opposition.


    Upon hearing this voice, Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou exchanged nces, and Ruyan''s previously calm demeanor became agitated. Her hands clenched, and she looked torn between wanting to rush forward and holding herself back.


    The members of Cangyun Sect were thrilled upon hearing the voice, especially Qiushui, who broke into a joyful smile. Only the sect leader remained with a look of guilt, his expression unchanged.


    The Deer King''s expression also shifted upon hearing the voice. He immediately moved to capture Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou, but he was a step toote. Just as he was about to act, three figures appeared out of nowhere, blocking his path. And from a distance, an evenrger army was approaching swiftly��troops from the Da Guang Empire, and their numbers far exceeded those of the Deer King''s forces.


    Seeing the swelling ranks of the Da Guang army, the Deer King felt a new wave of frustration wash over him, far more intense than the frustration of the past two months when he had been unable to find Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou. The term "frustrated to the point of tears" aptly described the Deer King''s current state of mind��he felt an immense, suffocating sense of powerlessness.


    When generals meet, the stakes are high.


    Intruding into the territory of Da Guang withoutunching an invasion was a deliberate decision, as Da Guang had its own strategic considerations. Both sides had maintained an unspoken agreement not to escte to a full-scale war. However, there was one caveat: if the generals of both sides ever met, it would signify the start of a war. The only options would be for the Deer King to retreat immediately or for the two empires to officiallymence hostilities.


    The Deer King certainly didn''t want a war between the two empires. This meant he would have to retreat, taking all the troops of the Great Yu Empire with him, effectively acknowledging Da Guang''s sovereignty. Otherwise, it would mean war.


    The approaching figure was none other than the Grand Marshal of the Da Guang Empire, Xiao Wang.


    Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou were so close, almost within arm''s reach, but in this critical moment, the Deer King was blocked. His frustration was evident, his face flushed red with anger, despite his status as a powerful Emperor Realm cultivator.


    The sensation of being so close to victory only to be thwarted was unbearable for the Deer King. It was as if he was caught between life and death, a tormenting sensation.


    "Xiao Wang!����������������������������������" The Deer King roared at the figure who had suddenly appeared to block him.


    As soon as Xiao Wang appeared in the sky, Princess Qianyou quickly exined to Zhong Shan.


    "Xiao Wang is the Grand Marshal of the Da Guang Empire. He was appointed fifty years ago and is known for his strict military discipline and brilliant strategy. He has never lost a battle and has a unique talent for unifying his troops, fostering a sense of shared purpose and resilience. Many consider him a once-in-a-millennium military genius. It''s a pity he was appointed fifty years toote; otherwise, many would have anticipated his sh with Yi Yan from a century ago," Princess Qianyou exined to Zhong Shan.


    "Xiao Wang?" Zhong Shan looked up at the sky with a frown.


    At that moment, it seemed as if time stood still for Ruyan. She gazed upward, her expression a mixture of breathlessness and a hint of release. Xiao Wang, the figure at the forefront of the three, stoodmanding as more troops gathered behind him��first the Integration stage cultivators, then the Nascent Soul stage, followed by the Golden Core stage. In an instant, the ruins of Cangyun Sect were surrounded by an unending sea of soldiers, transforming the ce into a battlefield between two great empires.


    "Deer King, it''s time for you to go back!" Xiao Wang said with a cold smile.


    The Deer King''s face flushed with anger, his entire body trembling with rage. Though he possessed the strength to fight, theplexities of an inter-empire war went far beyond personal grudges, and he couldn''t afford to act rashly.


    "Tears drop into the mortal world,menting the passage of time, difficult to retrieve, never seeing my beloved. For you, I''ve kept a thousand-year intoxication, harboring hate, my beloved..."


    Before Zhong Shan, Ruyan suddenly started singing the song that had apanied her for a thousand years. It was the first song taught to her by Xiao Bingyi.


    "Tears drop into the mortal world,menting the passage of time, difficult to retrieve, never seeing my beloved. For you, I''ve kept a thousand-year intoxication, harboring hate, my beloved..."


    In the midst of an intense standoff between nearly eight hundred thousand soldiers from both sides, a haunting and sorrowful melody suddenly echoed through the air. The song, hailing from a thousand years ago, felt strangely out of ce. The Deer King, his face still flushed, turned his gaze downward.


    On the other side, among the Da Guang Empire''s forces, Xiao Wang led his generals, many of whom also turned to look downward, puzzled. One man beside Xiao Wang widened his eyes in disbelief.


    Xiao Wang, however, did not immediately turn his head. Tears streamed down his cheeks as if he was afraid to look. He took a deep breath.


    "Father Marshal!" eximed the man beside Xiao Wang, his voice tinged with incredulity.


    Scenes from the past reyed in Xiao Wang''s mind��the moment when Xiao Bingyi was rescued from the brink of death. Two adopted sons, having just entered the celestial sect, knelt before a coffin. Xiao Bingyi, upon waking, tried to revive Ruyan, only to find she was already dead, her life forcepletely extinguished. With a heart full of sorrow, Xiao Bingyi sealed the coffin, instructing all nearby residents to leave and not disturb Ruyan''s rest. From then on, he adopted the name Xiao Wang, a name change that his two adopted sons followed, in an attempt to forget a painful past that was best left unremembered.


    Over a thousand years, one adopted son became the leader of Cangyun Sect, while the other stayed by Xiao Wang''s side, rising through the ranks within the Da Guang Empire. Xiao Wang himself had ascended to the esteemed position of Grand Marshal of the Da Guang Empire, earning renown throughout thend.


    There was a time when Xiao Wang believed he had truly forgotten the past, but since taking the name ''Xiao Wang,'' he was destined never to forget. Tears streaming down his face, Xiao Wang slowly turned his head.

 Chapter 244: The Final Encounter

    <h4>Chapter 244: The Final Encounter</h4>


    The Deer King stared wide-eyed at Xiao Wang, finding it difficult toprehend. Even the rage that had flushed his face moments ago seemed to have been forgotten. Xiao Wang was crying?


    In the eyes of the Deer King, Xiao Wang had always been a ruthless and cold-hearted individual. ording to all the information he had gathered, Xiao Wang was known for his unyielding and icy demeanor. So why was he crying now?


    And that song��was it sung by that apparition? The Deer King turned his gaze towards Ruyan, who stood beside Zhong Shan. Who was she? And who was the ghostly singer?


    It wasn''t just the Deer King who found the situation incredulous; nearly everyone else was stunned too.


    Xiao Wang turned his head towards the direction where Zhong Shan stood, his eyes bypassing everyone else and fixing onto Ruyan.


    Their eyes met, and as Ruyan''s song came to a halt, the two of them stood there silently, as if the tens of thousands of troops around them had vanished, and the distance between them had dissolved into nothingness.


    Xiao Wang gazed at her with a yearning expression and began to descend towards the square where Ruyan stood. His movement caused a stir among the troops, but it was quickly suppressed by the generals on both sides. No one tried to stop him. Xiao Wang''s subordinates were on high alert, wary of any potential ambush from the Deer King and his men, while the Deer King himself frowned as he watched Xiao Wang slowly approach.


    Apanying Xiao Wang in his descent was another general, one of his adopted sons.


    Xiao Wangnded not far from Ruyan and began walking towards her, with his adopted son following closely behind. The Sect Master of Cangyun Sect also approached, walking slowly until he stood behind Xiao Wang, alongside the adopted son.


    Upon seeing the Sect Master approaching, Autumn Water stepped forward and said, "Grandpa!"


    Grandpa? It turned out that Autumn Water was Xiao Wang''s grandson, Xiao Qiushui.


    However, Xiao Wang paid him no attention at this moment. The Sect Master of Cangyun Sect nced at Xiao Qiushui and gave him a look that said, "Stay back."


    Xiao Qiushui stepped back, his eyes filled with confusion and bewilderment.


    Step by step, Xiao Wang approached Ruyan until he was standing not far from her.


    When Xiao Qiushui addressed Xiao Wang as ''Grandpa,'' Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou were slightly surprised, but Ruyan seemed to already know, paying no mind to it and simply watching Xiao Wang approach.


    As Xiao Wang drew closer, the tears in his eyes dried up. He gazed at Ruyan with an intense longing.


    "You remarried?" Ruyan asked calmly.


    Xiao Wang nodded without hesitation. "Yes."


    "Why didn''t youe to find me?" Ruyan''s tone remained indifferent.


    "I thought you were gone," Xiao Wang replied, taking a deep breath.


    Suddenly, Ruyan smiled for the first time. Her smile carried a sense of bitterness, yet also a feeling of liberation.


    "Ruyan!" Xiao Wang called out softly, his hand reaching out towards her.


    With a faint smile, Ruyan said, "I''m tired of waiting. This was the token of your love for me, the Love Knot. Today, I return it to you."


    Ruyan gently took out the ne that had once adorned her skeletal neck and ced it in Xiao Wang''s palm.


    "For a thousand years, I only wanted to see you once. I waited in the Xiao Manor for a thousand years, just to see you once. Now that I''ve seen you and returned this Love Knot to you, my wish is fulfilled," Ruyan said with a relieved smile.


    Her smile carried a poignant feeling, a sense of destion that anyone who witnessed it would feel.


    "Ruyan!" Xiao Wang called out again, holding onto her hand tightly, unwilling to let go.


    Ruyan gently freed her hand from Xiao Wang''s grasp. "I must go. A thousand years ago, I should have left."


    "Ruyan, don''t go!" Xiao Wang called out desperately, trying to reach for her again.


    But Ruyan''s form drifted away from him.


    "Tears trickle down, lost in the mundane world, sighing for the passage of time. Unable to see my beloved, I wait drunkenly for a thousand years. In my heart, I hold resentment for the one I love..."


    As Ruyan sang the first song taught to her by Xiao Bingyi, her figure floated further and further away, gradually fading from view.


    "Ruyan, don''t go! Ruyan, don''t go!" Xiao Wang suddenly seemed like an ordinary person, chasing after Ruyan with quick steps. But he could never catch up; Ruyan continued to drift away while singing, her figure growing fainter and fainter until she vanishedpletely before everyone''s eyes.


    She was gone. Ruyan had departed, leaving only a sense of emptiness behind. Xiao Wang chased after her relentlessly, tears streaming down his face as he reached out for her, but how could he bring her back from theherworld? He could only run after her in despair.


    "Ruyan, don''t go! Ruyan, don''t go!" When he reached the spot where Ruyan had disappeared, all he could find was an object she had left behind��a painting.


    It was a painting of Xiao Bingyi and Ruyan embracing, the same one Zhong Shan had seen at the Xiao Manor. In the painting, Ruyan looked as beautiful and happy as ever, cradled in the arms of the elderly Xiao Bingyi, his hair white and his face wrinkled. Ruyan''s expression radiated happiness.


    Xiao Wang could only grasp onto this painting. There was nothing else left.


    Looking at the painting, Xiao Wang fell to his knees, tears streaming down his face as he muttered iprehensible words that no one else could understand.


    Not far away, the Sect Master of Cangyun Sect and another general also knelt down, tears flowing freely from their eyes as well.


    Watching the two of them, Zhong Shan took a deep breath. Xiao Bingyi''s two adopted sons hadn''t forgotten their foster father. But what about mine? What about my three adopted sons? Have they forgotten about mepletely? What about Zhong Di and Zhong Shi Jiu? What happened to them?


    Princess Qianyou''s eyes were moist as she looked towards the spot where Ruyan had disappeared. Her voice trembled slightly as she said, "Why did Ruyan have to leave? After waiting for a thousand years and finally meeting, why did she have to leave?"


    ncing at Princess Qianyou, Zhong Shan held her hand and whispered softly, "This devotion has tormented Ruyan for a thousand years. Haven''t we heard her say how tired she was these days?"


    "Did Ruyan already know that Xiao Bingyi would remarry?" Princess Qianyou asked, her eyes widening in astonishment.


    "Does it matter whether she knew or not? For a thousand years, every day she watched the Everbright Lamp still burning, her heart was crushed time and time again. After a thousand years, Ruyan was exhausted. She just said it herself, she waited for a thousand years just to see Xiao Bingyi one more time. She knew that a thousand yearster, Xiao Bingyi wouldn''t be the same as before. At the very least, he wouldn''t be able to follow her to the underworld like they had promised each other a thousand years ago. At least now, Xiao Wang wouldn''t. So Ruyan left, finding release. She''s gone," Zhong Shan exined gently.


    "I don''t understand," Princess Qianyou shook her head, her eyes reddening as if she couldn''t ept Zhong Shan''s exnation.


    Watching Xiao Wang weeping bitterly as he held onto the painting, Zhong Shan took a deep breath. He hadn''t understood at first either. It was only when Ruyan gave him the Ten Courts of Hell back at the hall, saying she no longer needed it, that Zhong Shan understood. Ruyan had already figured everything out, understood everything. She knew what it would be like to see Xiao Bingyi again and decided to leave this world with a heart shattered into pieces.


    As the two armies faced off, General Xiao Wang suddenly broke down into uncontroble tears in the distance. It was the first time everyone had seen the General like this��never before, never. Even the Deer King, at this moment, felt a sense of temporal dislocation, a feeling of unreality that was very, very unreal.


    "We''re leaving!" With a hint of unwillingness, the Deer King issued a finalmand.


    With this order, his two and a half months of persistence, two and a half months of effort, were all in vain. The Deer King would forever bear the mark of failure.


    As the Deer King departed, Zhong Shan sighed inwardly. The pursuit of more than two months hade to an end. Yet whaty ahead was the confrontation with even more troops from the Great Radiance Empire.


    Meanwhile, Xiao Wang, no longer shedding tears, held onto the painting as if cradling a precious treasure. His eyes were filled with a sense of infatuation as his right hand gently caressed the image of Ruyan.


    At this moment, a man flew over from among the troops. He was the senior disciple of Xiao Qiu Shui. Although he had notified Xiao Wang, the two disciples sent by the Sect Master of Cangyun Sect had not found Xiao Wang''s army.


    Zhong Shan led Princess Qianyou towards a certain direction. However, at the next moment, numerous generals blocked their path.


    When Zhong Shan tried to move east, they blocked the east. When he tried to move west, they blocked the west. They wouldn''t let Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou leave, as if waiting for the Grand Commander Xiao Wang to make a decision.


    "Let them go! Let them go!" Xiao Wang, holding onto the painting, stared at the image of Ruyan without turning his head.


    "Yes," the generals replied.


    However, Zhong Shan didn''t leave at this moment.


    He took advantage of the situation and walked up to Xiao Qiu Shui''s senior disciple.


    Both Xiao Qiu Shui and his senior disciple looked at Zhong Shan strangely. Why hadn''t he left?


    Approaching Xiao Qiu Shui and his senior disciple, Zhong Shan gently spread open his hands, offering them to the two. He looked at them expectantly.


    Xiao Qiu Shui''s senior disciple nced at Zhong Shan with a strange expression. This man was indeed taking advantage of the situation. Looking at the Sect Master and the other general kneeling nearby, and then at the grandfather Xiao Wang grieving alone, Xiao Qiu Shui''s senior disciple gave his own disciple a meaningful look. Despite his reluctance, his disciple reluctantly took out the fog-shrouding array g that Zhong Shan had given them.


    As the g was taken back, Zhong Shan wielded his sword and, with Princess Qianyou, ascended into the air. Amidst the perplexed gazes of the entire army, they slowly flew out of Cangyun Sect''s territory, breaking through the encirclement.


    The army watched as Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou, whom they had been searching for, were casually released by the Grand Commander. Each soldier couldn''t help but feel a sense of regret and iprehension. It was only when Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou''s figures disappeared into the distance that the soldiers gradually turned their attention away.


    Zhong Shan departed with ease because he hade with Ruyan. At this moment, Xiao Wang couldn''t possibly "use" Ruyan to capture Zhong Shan anymore.

 Chapter 245: The Grand Prosperity Trading Guild

    <h4>Chapter 245: The Grand Prosperity Trading Guild</h4>


    Sky Wolf Ind, Great Xian Dynasty, in the Hall of Eternal Life


    The Hall of Eternal Life was shut tight, illuminated by radiant night-pearls. Outside the hall, Empress Gan Ba''er had set up a soundproof barrier.


    Inside, Zhongshan sat upon the throne, his figure imposing despite the dim light. Beside him was Ba''er, a serene presence. In front of them stood Zhongshan''s closest confidants: Wei Taizhong, Zhong Zheng, Lin Xiao, and Ying Lan.


    "Zhong Zheng," Zhongshan called out.


    "Father!" Zhong Zheng stepped forward immediately.


    "How are the preparations going?" Zhongshan asked, his gaze piercing.


    "Father, as per your instructions, the thirty most loyal and capable individuals have been selected. They receive the best training and resources every day, and now all of them have reached the sixth or seventh level of innate cultivation," Zhong Zheng reported promptly.


    "And you?" Zhongshan queried.


    "Your son has reached the ninth level of innate cultivation!" Zhong Zheng replied truthfully.


    "Good. In one month, we will set out for the Divine Land. Establish a trading guild, ''Prosperity,'' the Grand Prosperity Trading Guild. It will gather resources for the Great Xian Dynasty," Zhongshan stated with gravity.


    "Yes," Zhong Zheng responded immediately, though a hint of surprise flickered in his eyes.


    Zhongshan smiled slightly. "Are you puzzled?"


    "Yes, Father. Didn''t you say we should wait until everyone reaches the Golden Core stage before departing?" Zhong Zheng asked, puzzled.


    "The Golden Core stage? Rest assured, I will send Golden Core experts to protect the thirty-one of you. Once you reach the Golden Core stage yourselves, they will withdraw," Zhongshan exined with a smile.


    "Yes," Zhong Zheng nodded, refraining from further questions.


    "I have prepared maps of the eastern and southern regions of the Divine Land, as well as the trading practices of the cultivators there. Spend this month familiarizing yourselves with them," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Yes!" Zhong Zheng nodded again, ncing at Ba''er, knowing that only his stepmother had been to the Divine Land.


    Satisfied with Zhong Zheng''s response, Zhongshan smiled. "Besides sending Zhong Zheng to the Divine Land, I have another matter to disclose to you all."


    "What is it?" Ying Lan asked, puzzled.


    "Four years ago, I already went to the Divine Land!" Zhongshan revealed.


    "Uh? Granduncle, when did you go? Howe I didn''t know?" Ying Lan eximed in astonishment.


    The others also looked at Zhongshan with puzzled expressions. The Divine Land was not in the neighboring city but across a vast sea. How could His Majesty have gone there? He had been attending court regrly for all these years. It seemed impossible.


    Only Ba''er smiled faintly, knowing that her husband was about to unveil a bit of his secret.


    "Have you ever heard of an external incarnation?" Zhongshan asked.


    "I know! That''s an immortal''s technique. Granduncle, you''ve mentioned it before," Ying Lan immediately responded.


    Everyone turned to look at Zhongshan.


    "Correct. It''s an immortal''s technique. An immortal once helped me create a puppet doppelganger, my external incarnation. Even across countless miles, we can share thoughts and feelings," Zhongshan exined.


    As Zhongshan spoke, everyone widened their eyes, disbelief written all over their faces. An immortal?


    "Granduncle, you''ve met an immortal?" Ying Lan asked excitedly.


    "Yes. So, four years ago, I went to the Divine Land," Zhongshan confirmed.


    "Father, does this mean your puppet doppelganger has been in the Divine Land all these years?" Zhong Zheng asked, eyes wide with surprise.


    "Yes, he is me, and I am him. Whatever he sees, I see," Zhongshan dered with absolute certainty.


    The gathered crowd gaped in disbelief, struggling toprehend such an incredible statement. It seemed too fantastical to be true.


    "Father, does that mean that when I reach the Divine Land, I will also be able to find you?" Zhong Zheng quickly asked.


    Zhongshan nced at Zhong Zheng and smiled slightly. "Indeed. However, when you seek me out, you must be discreet. My identity in the Divine Land is somewhat sensitive at the moment."


    "Sensitive?" Zhong Zheng inquired, puzzled.


    "You''ll understand when you get there," Zhongshan replied.


    "Understood," Zhong Zheng acknowledged.


    Zhongshan then shared more details about the Divine Land with everyone, and they listened in awe, their minds reeling from the revtions. Soon, the meeting concluded, and everyone was dismissed, leaving only Zhongshan and Ba''er in the hall.


    Once the doors were securely closed, Zhongshan suddenly called out, "Dark Sovereign."


    From a shadowy corner came a response, "Master."


    "Dark Sovereign, gather some Shadow Guards at the Golden Core stage and have them apany Zhong Zheng and his team. They should protect them openly while they are at the innate stage, but once they reach the Golden Core stage, they must protect them from the shadows, ensuring the safety of every single one of them," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Understood," the Dark Sovereign responded.


    "Dark Sovereign, you should go to the Divine Land as well. Witness the grandeur and meet the heroes of the world," Zhongshan said with a smile.


    "But...?" The Dark Sovereign showed a hint of concern.


    "Haha, you''re worried about the Lunar Moon Dynasty to the north of Sky Wolf Ind?" Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Yes. The Shadow Guards have already infiltrated the Lunar Moon Dynasty and the three other dynasties. If I leave..." The Dark Sovereign frowned.


    "Going to the Divine Land doesn''t mean you won''t return. It''s not the right time to confront the Lunar Moon Dynasty. The Grand Prosperity Trading Guild will soon spread its branches across the Divine Land. Visit the guild periodically, and when we are ready to wage war against the Lunar Moon Dynasty, you''ll be informed. The next time you return, it will be toy siege to the Lunar Moon Dynasty," Zhongshan stated with unwavering confidence.


    "Yes!" The Dark Sovereign responded.


    "Like a dragon entering the sea, like a ck dragon ascending to the heavens, the Divine Land is a good ce. Make the most of it, Dark Sovereign," Zhongshan advised with a smile.


    "Thank you, Master!" The Dark Sovereign replied.


    "Mm," Zhongshan nodded.


    A monthter, under Zhong Zheng''s leadership, the first thirty founding members of the Grand Prosperity Trading Guild, tasked with gathering resources for the Great Xian Dynasty, set foot on the Divine Land. Zhong Zheng carried a wolf token, a substantial amount of elixirs, and numerous specialties from Sky Wolf Ind as initial capital to begin their venture into the Divine Land''s market.


    The Dark Sovereign quietly departed as well. Apart from the sudden disappearance of the crown prince, everything else in the Great Xian Dynasty remained unchanged, and the dynasty continued to build its strength. Wolf cavalry forces grew steadily, with batches of the most elite soldiers constantly being trained.


    In a valley within the Great Guang Empire''s territory on the Divine Land...


    "Princess, has the residual poison been cleared?" Zhongshan asked, looking across at Princess Qianyou.


    Princess Qianyou held the Pure World Snow Lotus, channeling her magical energy. The lotus emitted rings of milky white light that enveloped her. As the outer rings passed over Zhongshan, he felt a soothing, harmonious sensation that was deeplyforting.


    The milky white light of the Pure World Snow Lotus cast a dreamlike glow around Princess Qianyou, enhancing her ethereal beauty. Her previously closed eyes slowly opened, revealing a soft radiance akin to a blooming orchid. She was extraordinarily captivating.


    "The residual poison has been cleared. But, Mister, could you gift this flower to Qianyou?" Princess Qianyou asked with a yful expression.


    Hearing this, Zhongshan frowned slightly and shook his head. "No, this flower holds great significance to me."


    The Pure World Snow Lotus was a precious gift from his master and a part of Linger''s dowry. If it had not been seized, Zhongshan would never part with it, regardless of what he was offered in exchange.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s refusal, Princess Qianyou instinctively pouted her lips. It was the first time Zhongshan had seen such a girlish expression from her.


    "How about the grand sedan?" Princess Qianyou inquired.


    "The sedan is fine," Zhongshan nodded.


    The sedan was originally meant for Linger, but in Zhongshan''s heart, the one to receive Linger should only be a new and unused one. How could a sedan used by someone else be appropriate? Therefore, the sedan that had been carrying Princess Qianyou could naturally be gifted to her.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s agreement, Princess Qianyou handed the Pure World Snow Lotus back to him and extended her hand for the sedan.


    With a slight smile, Zhongshan carefully put away the Pure World Snow Lotus and then produced therge sedan, handing it to Princess Qianyou.


    Smiling with satisfaction, Princess Qianyou took a long, appreciative look at the sedan before storing it away.


    "Mister, do you know about a special use of the Pure World Snow Lotus for spiritual awareness?" Princess Qianyou suddenly asked.


    "Spiritual awareness?" Zhongshan was puzzled.


    "It seems you''re unaware," Princess Qianyou said with a smile.


    "I''d like to hear more!" Zhongshan urged.


    "You''re currently at the fifth level of the Golden Core stage, and the next level is the sixth. The sixth level involves opening the Niwan Pce and forming self-awareness into spiritual consciousness, transitioning from the ethereal to the tangible, and performing the wonders of the spirit," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "I''m aware of that," Zhongshan nodded.


    "But have you thought about the form of your spiritual consciousness?" Princess Qianyou asked with a smile.


    "The form of my spiritual consciousness?" Zhongshan was intrigued.


    "Yes. For some, their spiritual consciousness is as sharp as an unsheathed sword. For others, it''s as gentle as flowing water, endlessly continuous. Some have spiritual consciousness like zing fire, burning and annihting other consciousnesses. Others have it like towering green trees, full of vitality. Some have it like solid earth, firm and powerful. And what about you, Mister?" Princess Qianyou asked, her smile widening.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan was surprised.


    His master, Tian Xingzi, had not mentioned this, and the Pure Yang Thunder Prison Technique did not cover it either. Spiritual consciousness? Could there really be such diversity?


    "Is there something Mister doesn''t know?" Princess Qianyou asked excitedly, as if delighted to find a gap in Zhongshan''s knowledge.


    "I seek your guidance, Princess," Zhongshan asked sincerely.


    "Hmm, it''s understandable. Generally, Golden Core stage cultivators do not have ess to such advanced knowledge because they have no choice but to form a basic spiritual consciousness. Most of them condense ordinary spiritual consciousness, andter, as it grows stronger, they can shape it ording to their preferences, forming a ''root spiritual consciousness.'' Some people choose a ''sword,'' others choose ''water,'' ''fire,'' or ''tree,'' creating a variety of forms based on their own liking and attributes. The root spiritual consciousness is essentially the essence or origin of one''s spiritual consciousness. Initially, it may not show significant effects, but its importance grows over time. For instance, someone with a root spiritual consciousness in the form of a sword canter use it to sever the spiritual consciousness of a strong opponent, rendering them mindless and turning them into aplete imbecile. I''ve even heard from His Majesty that a root spiritual consciousness can be extremely useful in withstanding heavenly tribtions in the future," Princess Qianyou borated.

 Chapter 246 - 246 Meeting Nie Youyou Again

    <h4>Chapter 246: Meeting Nie Youyou Again</h4>


    "Forming a ''Root Spiritual Sense''?" Zhongshan frowned in confusion.


    "Your current strength is not enough to form a Root Spiritual Sense. Even with my cultivation at thebination stage, I have just begun to have the ability to slowly form a Root Spiritual Sense. The Root Spiritual Sense is the foundation, while the ordinary spiritual sense is auxiliary. I have just experienced its usefulness." Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "What does the Root Spiritual Sense have to do with the Cleansing World Lotus?" Zhongshan asked, puzzled.


    "The Root Spiritual Sense can be formed by slowly condensing one''s own spiritual sense, or by selecting some super-grade treasures of heaven and earth and refining them with force to be the Root Spiritual Sense. However, those who can refine treasures of heaven and earth into Root Spiritual Sense have already manifested their Root Spiritual Sense with their spiritual sense, so such people are very few." Princess Qianyou exined.


    "The Cleansing World Lotus can do this?" Zhongshan asked in surprise.


    "Yes, the Cleansing World Lotus is one of the few treasures in the world that can purify treasures of heaven and earth and transform them into Root Spiritual Sense." Princess Qianyou said.


    "It actually has such a wonderful use?" Zhongshan was astonished.


    Zhongshan analyzed the meaning behind Princess Qianyou''s words. Usually, Root Spiritual Sense can only be self-condensed after reaching thebination stage, but with the Cleansing World Lotus, wouldn''t it be possible in the Golden Core stage? This would provide several realms of advantage in nurturing the Root Spiritual Sense.


    "Yes, but if there are no treasures better than the Cleansing World Lotus, it''s best not to use it to purify into Root Spiritual Sense, because once purified, the Cleansing World Lotus will also deteriorate. In that case, it''s better to directly refine the Cleansing World Lotus into Root Spiritual Sense." Princess Qianyou advised.


    "Hmm." Zhongshan nodded.


    "Here, Qianyou just happens to have a method of purification, which I once identally found in an ancient book. I''ll give it to you." Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Thank you, Princess." Zhongshan immediately expressed his gratitude.


    Subsequently, Princess Qianyou exined to Zhongshan in detail. Zhongshan remembered it in his heart. As for the image of the Root Spiritual Sense, Zhongshan also began to contemte it. Was the image of the Cleansing World Lotus appropriate? He decided to wait and see.


    Ten dayster, on a white cloud, Princess Qianyou wore male attire, holding a paper fan, like a graceful young gentleman, driving the cloud with Zhongshan towards a certain direction.


    "Sir, ahead is ''Sealing Spirit City''. After meeting Ada and A''er, we will return to the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty." Princess Qianyou pped her hands with the folding fan.


    "Hmm, I have finally fulfilled my mission and brought the princess back safe and sound." Zhongshan nodded, smiling.


    "Yes, thanks to you, sir. Your name has now spread to countless people." Princess Qianyou said.


    "I would rather not have this reputation." Zhongshan smiled bitterly.


    "Huh?" Princess Qianyou suddenly furrowed her brows.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhongshan asked in confusion.


    "Nie Youyou!" Princess Qianyounded the white cloud not far from a mountain peak.


    Following Princess Qianyou''s direction, Zhongshan also saw a distant valley.


    Nie Youyou, indeed it was Nie Youyou! She was no longer wearing golden clothes but was dressed in a ck robe embroidered with simple flowers, very beautiful. The ck robe wrapped around her proud figure, adding a mysterious beauty.


    Nie Youyou held a ck whip in her hand, one end of the whip tightly gripped in her hand, while the other end was tied to a man in a yellow robe. The man in the yellow robe fell to the ground, and Nie Youyou stepped on him with one foot. She seemed like a queen, disying apletely different temperament fromst time, wild and noble, yes, it was a wild beauty.


    The man in the yellow robe looked panicked, while Nie Youyou, while subduing him, looked towards Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou on the mountain peak not far away.


    "Nie Youyou!" Princess Qianyou''s voice was full of surprise and curiosity.


    Zhongshan also looked at Nie Youyou in the valley. Her appearance reminded him of their past encounters. The great change in Nie Youyou surprised him. Her attire and demeanor had undergone tremendous changes.


    "Howe you''re here?" Zhongshan wondered.


    Princess Qianyou smiled lightly, a hint of cunning in her eyes. "Sir, shall we go over and take a look?" Princess Qianyou suggested.


    "Sure." Zhongshan nodded in agreement. They descended from the cloud andnded in the valley where Nie Youyou was.


    "Miss Nie, long time no see." Zhongshan approached with a smile.


    "Zhongshan?" Nie Youyou looked at Zhongshan with aplex expression, a hint of surprise shed in her eyes, but she quickly regained herposure.


    "What, not happy to see me?" Zhongshan teased.


    "How could that be? I just didn''t expect to meet you here." Nie Youyou smiled, her smile tinged with indifference.


    Zhongshan nced at the man in the yellow robe under her feet and asked, "Who is this?"


    "It doesn''t matter." Nie Youyou''s tone was indifferent, obviously unwilling to discuss it further.


    Princess Qianyou stepped forward and said with a smile, "Miss Nie, we just saw you. Shall we not disturb you?"


    "No, you came just in time. I have something to deal with." Nie Youyou replied, her words carrying a hint ofplex emotion.


    Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou looked at each other and decided not to ask too much for now. Zhongshan had a faint feeling that Nie Youyou''s changes might be rted to what she was going through, and their arrival might affect her ns.


    On the other side of the valley, Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou quietly observed Nie Youyou. Every movement and expression of hers made Zhongshan feel that she had be moreplicated and unpredictable.


    When Princess Qianyou spotted Nie Youyou, Nie Youyou also noticed Princess Qianyou and Zhongshan.


    Stepping on the man in the yellow robe, Nie Youyou shed a charming smile at Zhongshan.


    Seeing this scene, Zhongshan''s puzzled heart tightened. Nie Youyou was looking at him again? And her demeanor changed so quickly. It seemed like she had transformed in the blink of an eye. If it weren''t for her unchanged appearance and that smile directed at him, Zhongshan would have thought she was someone else.


    Gentle, wild, mischievous��how could one woman possess so many different qualities?


    "Sir, did Nie Youyoue chasing after you?" Princess Qianyou asked Zhongshan with a smile. However, her tone carried a hint of sourness for some reason.


    "It''s unlikely. Perhaps it''s because of King Julu''s lingering resentment? Still trying to capture us. After all, she came from King Julu''s mansion." Zhongshan chuckled awkwardly, touching his nose.


    "King Julu? Sir, you know she can''t be restrained by King Julu." Princess Qianyou said, clearly ming Zhongshan for being evasive.


    But what could Zhongshan do? Nie Youyou smiled charmingly at him, something he hadn''t expected.


    At that moment, the man bound by Nie Youyou''s whip had to take something out of his storage bracelet.


    Seeing the object, Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou exchanged astonished nces.


    A Fengshui Fish? Another Fengshui Fish? Exactly like the one Xiao Qiushui capturedst time, a Fengshui Fish as yellow as a New Year painting.


    Satisfied, Nie Youyou grasped it in her hand, then flicked her whip, sending the man flying. Freed, the man panicked and fled, disappearing in an instant.


    With the Fengshui Fish in hand, Nie Youyou trembled it lightly, seeminglypletely refining it. With a flip of her hand, she put it away. Then, she coiled her whip a few times and returned it to her palm.


    With a leap, Nie Youyou left an afterimage and flew to Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou.


    "Eight million soldiers and civilians from the Great Universe are searching for you. Yet you boldly walked out of the Great Universe with a group of old, weak, sick, and disabled people? Master, you''re amazing!" Nie Youyou immediately grinned.


    Master? Nie Youyou''s every move and word had an indescribable vor. Even when she just called him "Master" a moment ago, Zhongshan felt a tingling sensation in his bones.


    "Are you referring to me as old, weak, sick, and disabled?" Princess Qianyou tapped her folding fan against her palm.


    Hearing Princess Qianyou''s interruption, Nie Youyou turned her head to look at Princess Qianyou, who was dressed in men''s clothing. She touched her whip and smiled faintly. "Princess Qianyou of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, I''m talking to Zhongshan. It''s better if you don''t interrupt."


    "He''s mine. Why can''t I interrupt? And you, as Zhongshan''s ve, when can you learn your ce?" Princess Qianyou pointed at Nie Youyou with her folding fan.


    "Hehe, Zhongshan, are you hers now?" Nie Youyou suddenly took out a memory crystal and smiled at Zhongshan.


    Seeing Nie Youyou''s actions, Zhongshan frowned.


    "Miss Nie Youyou, what are you trying to do?" Zhongshan stared at Nie Youyou.


    "Um, how about this? Zhongshan, why don''t you stop following this girl and be mypanion instead?" Nie Youyou suddenly grinned.


    Hearing Nie Youyou''s words, Princess Qianyou raised an eyebrow, not angry but showing a strange expression.


    Zhongshan, on the other hand, stared at Nie Youyou, as if he had remembered something but wasn''t entirely sure.


    "Miss Nie Youyou, when have we met before? How do you know me?" Zhongshan asked, with a hint of inquiry.


    Nie Youyou held the whip in one hand and wiped it with the other. "Didn''t we meetst time at King Julu''s mansion in the Great Universe? Don''t you remember?"


    <strong>"How did you know about me?"</strong> Zhongshan asked, staring intently at Nian Youyou.


    <strong>"Tell me you like Nian Youyou, and I''ll tell you everything,"</strong> Nian Youyou replied with a smile, holding the memory crystal as if poised to capture this captivating moment.


    Watching Nian Youyou''s actions, Zhongshan felt a tinge of awkwardness. Perhaps another man would bepletely disarmed by Nian Youyou''s bewitching words, but Zhongshan was different. With his Hongluan Pink Lotus ability, all illusions and enchanting spells in the world were rendered powerless.


    At that moment, Princess Qianyou suddenly raised her hand towards the sky. A beam of purple light shot from her hand, transforming into a massive purple orchid in the sky.


    <strong>"What are you doing?"</strong> Nian Youyou snapped, turning her gaze to Princess Qianyou.


    <strong>"Tell me you like Zhongshan, and I''ll tell you,"</strong> Princess Qianyou retorted, waving her folding fan. She echoed Nian Youyou''s words, but her tone had a yful edge, directed more towards the bemused Zhongshan than at Nian Youyou.


    <strong>"Fine, I''ll say it. It''s no big deal. I do like a remarkable man like Zhongshan. So what?"</strong> Nian Youyou said with a seductive smile, walking closer to Zhongshan.


    Princess Qianyou was taken aback by Nian Youyou''s straightforwardness. Nian Youyou was proving to be quite difficult to handle.


    At that moment, Zhongshan''s expression became more serious, and a touch of tenderness flickered in his eyes. <strong>"How is Qingsi doing now?"</strong> he asked.


    <strong>"How is Qingsi doing now?"</strong>


    Hearing this sudden question, both women paused. Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan with surprise. His tone was filled with an inexplicable gentleness. Who was Qingsi? Princess Qianyou knew that this tone was only used when Zhongshan spoke of his wife. So, who was Qingsi?


    Nian Youyou, on the other hand, appeared somewhat flustered upon hearing Zhongshan''s words. She hesitated but then said, <strong>"Qingsi? Who is Qingsi?"</strong>


    Seeing Nian Youyou''s reaction, Zhongshan smiled faintly. <strong>"Seeing your reaction reassures me. Qingsi is doing very well now, better than you could imagine, enough to make you envious."</strong>


    <strong>"Hmph, Zhongshan, what do you mean by that?"</strong> Nian Youyou''s demeanor changed abruptly, like a cat whose tail had been stepped on. She quickly put away the memory crystal.


    <strong>"Alright, regardless, you''ve brought me news about Qingsi. Thank you for that. Now, you can leave,"</strong> Zhongshan said, taking a deep breath.


    <strong>"Leave? Why should I leave?"</strong> Nian Youyou smiled seductively again.


    <strong>"You will leave,"</strong> Princess Qianyou said, opening her folding fan with a lightugh.


    Just as Nian Youyou was about to re at Princess Qianyou, her expression suddenly changed. She turned to look into the distance, where two ck dots were rapidly approaching. They were getting closer by the second. It was Ada and A''er.


    Ada and A''er flew over excitedly from afar. In an instant, they were close,nding on the mountain peak beside Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou.

 Chapter 247: The Fengshui Formation in Fengling City

    <h4>Chapter 247: The Fengshui Formation in Fengling City</h4>


    Seeing the sudden arrival of Ada and A''er, Nian Youyou realized that her advantage had vanished. In terms of strength, she could no longerpletely overpower Princess Qianyou and Zhongshan.


    ncing at Princess Qianyou, who was looking rather pleased, and the excited Ada and A''er, Nian Youyou finally turned her gaze back to Zhongshan. With a sudden look of deep mncholy, she said, "You have such a cruel heart!" Then, she turned and flew off into the distance.


    Hearing Nian Youyou''s ambiguous parting words, Zhongshan felt a headacheing on. From her words, he understood that he would likely face endless harassment from her in the future.


    "Princess, sir!" Ada and A''er called out, their voices tinged with excitement.


    Zhongshan smiled and nodded, while Princess Qianyou breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Ada, A''er, when did you arrive?" Princess Qianyou asked, looking at the two of them.


    "We arrived a while ago. After leading the Duke of Giant Deer''s troops astray, we couldn''t find you, so we headed to Fengling City ahead of time. But sir, you''re amazing! You managed to evade the Duke of Giant Deer the entire way. When they finally found you, you drove him away with the Daguang army," Ada said excitedly.


    "What? Drove him away with the Daguang army? Who said that?" Zhongshan asked, puzzled.


    "Isn''t it true? It''s being said everywhere that you, as themander of the Cangyun Sect, faced off against the Duke of Giant Deer and drove him away. Wasn''t that intentional?" Ada asked, equally puzzled.


    "I''m not that powerful!" Zhongshan responded with a wry smile.


    "Sir, you are very powerful indeed," Princess Qianyou said with a smile.


    "What happened to Xiao Wang in the end? Have you heard anything?" Zhongshan asked, turning to Ada.


    "Xiao Wang, the Grand Marshal of Daguang, seems to have been deeply affected by something. He requested a three-year leave of absence from the Daguang Emperor, which was granted. However, his position as Grand Marshal has not been revoked and will remain for him upon his return in three years," Ada reported.


    Zhongshan frowned slightly and said, "Xiao Wang, once he returns in three years, having resolved his inner turmoil, will undoubtedly be even more formidable than before."


    "Yes," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    "Princess, during the days we''ve been waiting for you, we''ve noticed something very unusual about this Fengling City," Ada remarked.


    "What''s unusual?" Princess Qianyou asked, intrigued.


    "This," Ada said, flipping his hand to reveal a yellow Fengshui fish, identical to the one Nian Youyou had taken from the man earlier.


    "A Fengshui fish?" Princess Qianyou asked in surprise.


    "Yes, A''er and I were lucky. We seized it when two people were showing it off to each other," Ada exined.


    "Oh?" Princess Qianyou folded her paper fan, curious.


    "We interrogated them, and they said that these Fengshui fish started flying out of Fengling City about half a year ago, scattering in all directions. It''s unclear how many there are or where they went, but people who obtained them have been flocking back to Fengling City," Ada exined.


    "Flocking back to Fengling City?" Zhongshan asked, puzzled.


    "Generally, Fengshui fish are associated with Fengshui formations. Wherever there are Fengshui formations, there are usually hidden treasures. Like thest time, with the zombie emperor. So, people areing to see what treasures might be here," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "Yes, and it''s already spreading in Fengling City that a Fengshui formation will appear one year after the Fengshui fish leave the city. People who originally nned to travel far are now staying put," Ada added.


    "Not leaving?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Indeed, more people are entering the city than leaving. Additionally, Prince Han Jue has already arrived in Fengling City," Ada said.


    "Prince Han Jue?" Princess Qianyou asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, west encountered him in Sky City. Yi Yan wanted to kill us and frame him for it. I never thought he''d show up here as well. We''ve beenying low, waiting for you, Princess," A''er added.


    "Have you found the source of the Fengshui formation?" Princess Qianyou inquired.


    "No, there are only rumors that it''s somewhere within Fengling City. However, not long ago, we saw Prince Han Jue visit a location where there were brief sounds of explosions. He then left with his men, but he had the city guards seal off that ce. It''s possible that area is rted to the Fengshui formation," A''er exined.


    "What do you think, sir?" Princess Qianyou turned to Zhongshan.


    "I have no particr preference. Now that you''ve recovered, Princess, and with Ada and A''er for protection, as long as we don''t face a military siege like a few months ago, we should be fine," Zhongshan shrugged and smiled.


    "Shall we go take a look then?" Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan. She was seeking his opinion, a decision she wouldn''t have sought advice on in the past, but this time she asked Zhongshan.


    Ada and A''er didn''t think much of it, but Zhongshan noticed. He replied to Princess Qianyou, "It''s entirely up to you, Princess."


    "Alright, let''s go. It''s quite rare to have a Fengshui formation set up in a city. I''m curious to see it," Princess Qianyou said with interest.


    Standing outside Fengling City, Zhongshan gazed at the distant ancient city. ording to Ada, this city existed long before the Daguang Dynasty, appearing to have been there for ages.


    Fengling City resembled Wushuang City in shape, but it looked more ancient and the entire city wall was a mysterious yellow color.


    Entering Fengling City was not difficult; showing an identification badge from the Daguang Dynasty sufficed, and Ada and A''er had prepared everything in advance. Since Fengling City was deep within the Daguang Dynasty''s territory, there were no wars here, so the city guards werex in checking those who entered.


    Inside Fengling City, there were countless red and blue zones simr to those in Wushuang City, along with many floating inds. Under the guidance of Ada and A''er, the four quickly arrived at a very secluded valley, surrounded by a red barrier indicating it was a restricted area.


    "Princess, we''ve just bought this ce," A''er said.


    "From here, you can see where Prince Han Jue wentst time," Ada exined.


    "Where?" Princess Qianyou asked with a frown.


    Led by Ada and A''er, they reached the peak of a high mountain.


    "Princess, it''s there!" A''er pointed in a direction.


    In the distance, there were indeed arge number of soldiers guarding a location within a red barrier. The red barrier covered a vast area with a diameter of at least a hundred miles.


    "Have you gone inside?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Not yet. Although we have a Fengshui fish, we were worried about potential dangers, so we decided to wait for you to return before making any decisions," Ada said.


    "p, p, p..."


    Staring at the distant scene, Princess Qianyou tapped her hand with her folding fan, seemingly lost in thought.


    At that moment, Zhongshan noticed a shadow sh by, sneaking past the numerous soldiers and slipping into the guarded area.


    "Nian Youyou, Princess, that''s Nian Youyou!" Ada eximed immediately.


    "She just snatched the Feng Shui fish to take a look inside?" Princess Qianyou frowned as she nced into the distance.


    "Princess, let''s go inside too," came Zhongshan''s voice from behind her.


    Princess Qianyou turned around, her eyes brightening as she saw Zhongshan. In the brief span of time, he had donned the armor of a Daguang soldier, which he had seized during their previous escape.


    With a slight smile, Princess Qianyou said, "Alright!"


    Outside the restricted area, arge number of Daguang city guards stood watch, but inside, it was undisturbed. With just a bit of maneuvering, Zhongshan managed to slip in.


    Inside, there were numerous high mountains, arranged in a very orderly circle. There were a total of sixty-four peaks forming a perfect circle, enclosing a central open space. The circr valley below was overgrown with wild grass and appeared quite deste. The surrounding mountains were lush and green, covered with trees.


    On the northern side, halfway up a mountain, a tform jutted out. On this tform stood a small thatched hut, next to which was a small pond and several stone tables and benches. Sitting cross-legged on one of the stone benches was a man.


    The man was dressed in white, with snow-white hair. His eyes were closed, and his face was extremely clean, with white eyebrows and eyshes. He sat cross-legged on a lotus-shaped stone bench, holding a silver whisk in his right hand, with the whisk''s threads grasped in his left hand, resting on his knees as if in meditation or rest.


    Nian Youyou, dressed in a ck robe, stood on a nearby peak, clutching her whip and frowning as she stared at the white-robed man on the tform with suspicion.


    When Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou arrived, Nian Youyou''s eyes lit up. With a leap, shended beside Zhongshan.


    "What''s wrong? Didn''t find any treasure?" Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "I''m looking for Zhongshan, not you!" Nian Youyou retorted sharply.


    "Miss Nian Youyou, did you find anything?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Master, that guy bullied me! You have to avenge me!" Nian Youyou''s expression suddenly turned pitiful.


    Zhongshan was speechless at the sudden change in Nian Youyou''s demeanor. Not only did she have a multitude of changing temperaments, but she also acted as if she were already familiar with him.


    "I''m only at the Golden Core stage. If you can''t beat him, wouldn''t I be sending myself to my death?" Zhongshan replied with a slight smile.


    Nian Youyou looked at Zhongshan in astonishment. This wasn''t the first time her seductive techniques, which always worked on others, had failed on him. Just now, if it had been another man, even a Nascent Soul stage cultivator, they would have blushed and rushed to avenge her. Why, time and again, did her charms have no effect on Zhongshan?


    Seeing Zhongshan unaffected, Nian Youyou''s expression changed again, reverting to her ''queenly'' demeanor. She scrutinized Zhongshan with a critical eye and began circling him.


    "Just as Bei Qingsi said, you really are different," Nian Youyou finally admitted, acknowledging her acquaintance with Bei Qingsi.


    "However, the more you are like this, the more I like you!" Nian Youyou suddenly lifted her head, giving Zhongshan a teasing smile, as if she was unwilling to ept defeat.

 Chapter 248: Xuan Yuan

    <h4>Chapter 248: Xuan Yuan</h4>


    Seeing the sudden changes in Nian Youyou''s tone, Zhong Shan furrowed his brows, finding her quite peculiar. Her beauty was only one aspect; what truly made her stand out was her ever-shifting aura. It made it impossible to pin down her true nature. Such a woman, if taken as a Daoist partner, would never let one feel bored.


    Princess Qianyou, standing to the side, also frowned as she looked at Nian Youyou.


    At this moment, two figures in ck robes suddenly appeared on a distant peak. Their sudden arrival caught everyone''s attention. Zhong Shan ignored Nian Youyou by his side and looked towards the two figures.


    "Xie Yan! Chu Ba Mo Luo!" Zhong Shan recognized them immediately. Thest time they were together was when they broke into the Zombie Saint''s tomb. Chu Ba Mo Luo had confronted the Venerable Huiguang back then, alongside Xie Yan.


    "Nian Youyou, long time no see!" Xie Yan''s voice rang out with a smirk.


    "Xie Yan?" Nian Youyou''s expression changed, her eyes showing a hint of an enigmatic glint.


    "You remember me. That''s good. I thought you''d forgotten." Xie Yan smiled wickedly.


    "How could I forget? But I was just bullied!" Nian Youyou put on a look of grievance.


    "Oh? Who''s got the guts to bully you?" Xie Yan''s eyes widened, his expression turning serious.


    "It''s him!" Nian Youyou pointed at the white-robed man on the hillside.


    Everyone''s gaze turned back to the white-robed man on the hillside.


    "Alright, Chu Ba, kill him," Xie Yan ordered bluntly.


    "Yes!" responded Chu Ba Mo Luo without hesitation. He leapt into the air, reaching the circr valley in an instant, and drew his huge sword from his back, preparing to attack the white-robed man.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou watched intently, while Nian Youyou disyed a triumphant smile.


    As Chu Ba Mo Luo flew into the air, the white-robed man on the hillside suddenly opened his eyes. His eyes slowly opened, revealing a pair of silver-gray pupils.


    In that instant, Zhong Shan saw in those silver-gray pupils a profound sense of despair and destion. That single nce seemed to infect everyone. Chu Ba Mo Luo''s sword-wielding motion paused for a moment, and the others also fell into a brief daze.


    Zhong Shan''s heart tightened. This person is formidable; a mere nce can instill a death wish in others.


    "Hiss~~" Princess Qianyou drew a sharp breath, startled by the power of the white-robed man.


    A''da and A''er also tensed up, their expressions turning serious. Even Xie Yan in the distance narrowed his eyes, now truly taking the white-robed man seriously. Initially, he had onlye for Nian Youyou, but now he was genuinely intrigued by this white-robed man.


    Nian Youyou kept watching Zhong Shan, noticing that he was the least affected by the white-robed man''s gaze among all the people present. How could this be?


    "You''re no match for me. Leave," the white-robed man said coldly, ncing at Chu Ba Mo Luo.


    "Hmph!" Chu Ba Mo Luo snorted and swung his giant sword at the white-robed man with a fierce sh.


    As the sword came down, mes seemed to erupt around Chu Ba Mo Luo, not just around him but enveloping the entire valley. That sword strike felt like the sun falling from the sky, a massive fiery ball crashing down on the white-robed man.


    Despite this overwhelming attack, the white-robed man remained unperturbed, not even bothering to dodge. He flicked his whisk with his right hand, draping its tassels over his left arm, while his left hand formed a delicate orchid finger gesture, which he slowly ced on his brow.


    "Boom ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The falling sun was caught mid-air by a white-robed figure, a single hand raised up, stopping the sun''s descent. Instantly, the surrounding mes vanished, revealing that the white-robed figure had actually grasped Chu Ba Mo Luo''s giant sword.


    Just one hand, his left hand, had stopped Chu Ba Mo Luo''s powerful strike?


    Who was this? Was it the white-robed man? No, the white-robed man was still sitting on the stone stool, holding the whisk in his right hand, and his left hand, with a delicate gesture, was still at his brow. But the man catching Chu Ba Mo Luo''s sword in the air looked exactly like him. Could they be twins?


    The man who caught Chu Ba Mo Luo''s sword gripped the de with his left hand and struck Chu Ba Mo Luo''s abdomen with his right palm.


    "Boom ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Chu Ba Mo Luo was sent flying. He stopped himself only after being hurled ten miles away, looking at the white-robed man in the sky with a face full of fear.


    At that moment, the figure in the sky began to fade, bing more and more transparent, and then suddenly disappeared, as if he had be invisible. The only person left was the man sitting on the stone stool, who looked exactly like the one who had vanished.


    The man slowly lowered his left hand from his brow and looked indifferently at Chu Ba Mo Luo in the distance.


    "Thank you for your mercy, senior!" Chu Ba Mo Luo respectfully bowed to the white-robed man.


    Upon hearing Chu Ba Mo Luo''s words, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. Thank him for his mercy? That means the person who blocked Chu Ba Mo Luo was indeed the sitting man? What just happened? Did he create a clone of himself to defeat his opponent? This is incredible!


    "Sir, this might be rted to his core divine sense," Princess Qianyou quickly exined to Zhong Shan.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded in agreement.


    Across from them, Chu Ba Mo Luo had already flown back to Xie Yan. Xie Yan looked at the white-robed man on the hillside with uncertainty. This white-robed man was too strong. One move, just one move, and he defeated Chu Ba Mo Luo? Chu Ba Mo Luo is a Royal Extreme Realm expert!


    "zing Sun de, are you from the Underworld Heaven?" the white-robed man asked coldly.


    "Yes," Chu Ba Mo Luo responded immediately.


    "So, you are protecting this person, indicating that you are a demonic seed youth," the white-robed man said, looking at Xie Yan.


    "Yes," Xie Yan replied, staring at the white-robed man. "Demonic seed, reincarnation of a past Demon Lord, my apologies," the white-robed man said.


    Xie Yan did not respond to the white-robed man because the apology wasn''t directed at his current self, but at his past life as a Demon Lord.


    The white-robed man then turned his gaze to Nian Youyou. Nian Youyou frowned.


    "Are you a True Person from the Eternal Life Realm?" the white-robed man asked.


    "Indeed," Nian Youyou confirmed.


    "You are very much like your master," the white-robed man shook his head.


    "Does senior know me?" Nian Youyou asked, puzzled.


    "Your lineage is passed down single-handedly. Is there any other possibility?" the white-robed man replied.


    Nian Youyou frowned but did not refute him.


    "The two great sanctuaries, Underworld Heaven and Eternal Life Realm, both have people here. This is the will of heaven. It seems that the seal here will notst long before being uncovered. However, I promised someone to guard this ce for a thousand years. There are four months left. After four months, I will no longer care. Come back in four months," the white-robed man said indifferently.


    Guarding for a thousand years? Zhong Shan felt a chill run down his spine. A thousand years? How many people have lived for a thousand years? In the entire world, the ones with the longest lifespans are the emperors of celestial dynasties, perhaps only with a lifespan of ten thousand years. This man, for a promise, sat here for a thousand years? How much lifespan does he have to spare?


    Zhong Shan was shocked, and so were the others. What kind of monster was this old man?


    "Yes, senior. May I ask for your esteemed name?" Nian Youyou stared at the white-robed man intently.


    "My name is Xuan Yuan." With that, the white-robed man closed his eyes again and sat cross-legged in a peaceful pose.


    Seeing Xuan Yuan sitting with his eyes closed, everyone frowned. However, they all understood his immense power. Four monthster?


    In the distance, Xie Yan squinted his eyes, staring at Xuan Yuan, his mind churning with unknown thoughts. Suddenly, with a wicked smile, he lifted his head, and with a step, he flew to a spot not far from Zhong Shan.


    "Nian Youyou, I suppose you still haven''t found a suitable Dao partner after all these years? I heard that your cultivation method requires you to find apatible Dao partner to continue progressing. How about I be your Dao partner?" Xie Yan asked with a sly grin.


    "How do you know about that?" Nian Youyou''s expression changed, but she still smiled sweetly. That smile could easily captivate a lovestruck fool.


    "Although the cultivation methods of the Eternal Life Realm are never leaked, certain characteristics can be deduced by those with keen eyes, especially your lineage, which is so unique," Xie Yan said, staring at Nian Youyou as if he wanted to devour her.


    "Unfortunately, I''ve already found one not too long ago," Nian Youyou said with a hint of regret.


    "Who?" Xie Yan raised an eyebrow.


    "Him, of course," Nian Youyou suddenly pointed at Zhong Shan.


    Seeing Nian Youyou point at him, Zhong Shan felt speechless. This woman was truly a troublemaker.


    "Him? What kind of person is he?" Xie Yanughed.


    "And what kind of person are you?" Princess Qianyou red at Xie Yan angrily.


    Seeing the inexplicable confrontation between Xie Yan and Princess Qianyou, Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow and said, "A glorious past life, a worthless present shell."


    Xie Yan looked down on him, so there was no need for Zhong Shan to show him any respect. Seeing Princess Qianyou standing up to him, Zhong Shan naturally sided with her. His words, though not vulgar, struck Xie Yan''s sore spot. Insults don''t need to be numerous or loud; they just need to hit hard.


    Zhong Shan''s words directly pointed out that Xie Yan was relying on the prestige of his past life, while his present self was nothing more than a useless shell, merely basking in the glory of his past.


    "You...you..." Xie Yan''s face turned red with anger, unable to retort.


    Meanwhile, Princess Qianyou, hearing Zhong Shan''s support, smiled knowingly.


    Satisfied with the scene, Nian Youyou suddenly leaped into the air.


    "Zhong Shan, I have something to attend to, so I''m leaving now. But I''lle back for you!" Nian Youyou''s voice echoed provocatively as she flew away.


    Hearing Nian Youyou''s parting words, Xie Yan frowned, nced at Zhong Shan, and his expression changed slightly, as if contemting something.


    "Let''s go, Chu Ba," Xie Yan said as he flew away with Chu Ba in another direction.


    After both groups had left, Zhong Shan frowned, looking at the directions they had taken, then at the formidable Xuan Yuan still sitting there. Zhong Shan said, "Princess, let''s go back. For at least the next four months, with Xuan Yuan here, no one will be able to break the ''seal'' he mentioned."


    "Hmm," Princess Qianyou nodded, looking at Xuan Yuan.


    Prince Han Jue must have known this as well, which is why he left confidently. But Xuan Yuan had been sitting here for a thousand years. How had the Great Light Empire not noticed him all this time?

 Chapter 249: The Return of the Mud Buddha

    <h4>Chapter 249: The Return of the Mud Buddha</h4>


    After Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou had left, and all the other people had also departed, Xuan Yuan suddenly opened his silver-grey eyes.


    "Alright, everyone''s gone now. Come out," Xuan Yuan said calmly.


    Although the surroundings appeared empty, soon, on the terrace halfway up the mountain where Xuan Yuan sat, a figure slowly emerged, materializing in an eerie manner.


    A man in a ck robe appeared, his entire body shrouded in the robe, rendering his facepletely obscured.


    "You''re not him. Who are you?" Xuan Yuan frowned slightly.


    "My master is dead. You can call me ''Mud Buddha''," the ck-robed man replied calmly.


    Mud Buddha. The same Mud Buddha whom Zhong Shan had once sought out in the Wolf Domain. Unexpectedly, he appeared here.


    "Mud Buddha?" Xuan Yuan questioned, puzzled.


    "Yes, Mud Buddha. My lineage has always passed down this name," the ck-robed man responded evenly.


    "What do you want?" Xuan Yuan asked.


    "I''m here to inform you that no one ising to rece you. This seal has existed for ten thousand years, and the limit of its lifespan has been reached. It will inevitably break. The entire Fengling City was established for the sake of this seal, and arrangements have already been made. We have held it for ten thousand years, and now whether it brings fortune or disaster, our lineage is no longer entangled with it," Mud Buddha exined calmly.


    "What exactly is sealed down there?" Xuan Yuan looked at Mud Buddha, seeking answers.


    "Something that should not exist in this world. If you''re interested, you can stay and watch. If not, you are free to leave anytime," Mud Buddha replied.


    "Are you not going to stay after four months?" Xuan Yuan stared at Mud Buddha.


    "Our lineage has spent ten thousand years to cleanse ourselves of any connection to it. Naturally, I don''t want to provoke it again. I''m just here to inform you that you are no longer bound by your old promise and can leave anytime," Mud Buddha said nonchntly.


    "I promised your master I would stay for a thousand years. How could I abandon thismitment in thest four months? I will leave after four months, but until then, I will keep my promise," Xuan Yuan said with a faint smile. He then gently closed his eyes, ignoring Mud Buddha.


    "As you wish," Mud Buddha said softly. Then, his form flickered and vanished from the spot.


    In Fengling City, inside arge mansion.


    Xie Yan sat in the main hall, his right hand''s index and middle fingers slowly ced on his forehead. With his eyes slightly closed, he appeared to be concentrating on something.


    Chu Ba Mo Luo stood nearby, frowning as he stared at Xie Yan''s fingertips.


    Suddenly, from Xie Yan''s forehead, a wisp of ck smoke slowly emerged, coalescing and dispersing intermittently. Within the ck smoke, there was a small ck core, about the size of a fingernail, resembling a seed and emitting a dark, glossy sheen.


    The ck core hovered at Xie Yan''s fingertips, radiating a faint, eerie ck aura.


    Xie Yan opened his eyes gently, a wicked smile ying on his lips.


    "Young Master, is that the demon seed?" Chu Ba Mo Luo asked, his gaze fixed on the ck core.


    "Yes. Every demon seed carrier has one of these. Some use it to elerate their cultivation, while others nt it in others. Once it''s nted in someone else, it won''t be long before it controls their thoughts, enving them and turning them into my female ves," Xie Yan replied with a sinister grin.


    "Does Young Master intend to nt this demon seed in Nian Youyou?" Chu Ba Mo Luo asked.


    "Exactly. Nian Youyou, a true immortal from the Eternal Life Realm, possessing a Qian Ding body. If I don''t nt it in her, it would be a waste of my only demon seed. She dared to mock me; once she bes my ve, I will make her beg on her knees, pleading for my favor. Hahaha," Xie Yanughed with excitement.


    "Although you only have one demon seed, using it on Nian Youyou wouldn''t disgrace it," Chu Ba Mo Luo nodded in agreement.


    "Disgrace? Actually, the one I most want to nt it on is Nian Youyou''s master. It''s just that her master is too strong. But it doesn''t matter; with my guidance, Nian Youyou will sooner orter be just like her master," Xie Yan said with a sinister grin��


    Inside Fengling City, within a grand hall.


    Prince Hanzue sat at the head, with Mr. Left and Mr. Right on either side, and several officials reporting to Prince Hanzue.


    "Your Highness, our men saw Princess Qianyou yesterday," one official said.


    "Princess Qianyou?" Prince Hanzue raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, she just arrived, probably also here for the Feng Shui array," the official replied.


    "Also here for that thing? Heh, for now, let''s not bother with her," Prince Hanzue decided.


    "Understood," the official replied.


    "Have you found out?" Prince Hanzue asked.


    "Not yet. It seems that the Feng Shui array has been here since the establishment of the Great Light Dynasty, and His Majesty ordered that no city lord should disturb it," another official exined.


    "At the founding of the Great Light, there was a person named ''Mud Buddha'' who helped subdue ten cities for the Great Light. His only condition was that the forbidden area not be disturbed for two thousand three hundred years. Now that time hase. I want to see what''s buried under this Feng Shui array," Prince Hanzue frowned.


    "Report����"


    Suddenly, a voice from outside the grand hall interrupted them. Everyone looked towards the entrance.


    Soon, an official rushed in, holding a ck paper in his hand.


    "Reporting to Your Highness, a ck-robed man calling himself ''Mud Buddha'' suddenly appeared outside. He asked me to deliver this paper to you. I felt something strange about him, so I brought the paper here immediately," the official reported.


    "Hm����" Prince Hanzue quickly stood up. Mud Buddha?


    "Where is he?" Prince Hanzue immediately asked.


    "He left. The moment I gave him the paper, he disappeared," the official replied.


    "Give it to me," Prince Hanzue ordered.


    The official quickly handed it to the prince.


    Prince Hanzue looked at the paper, his brows furrowed, his eyes filled with suspicion.


    "Your Highness, what''s going on?" Mr. Left asked immediately.


    Prince Hanzue handed the paper to Mr. Left. The paper read:��


    "In the Feng Shui array, the seal of the ''Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail'', a cmity unparalleled in heaven and earth, sealed for ten thousand years. The entire Fengling City serves as the array''s seal. Four monthster, the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail will emerge, causing devastation to all living beings. Within four months, everyone must leave the city to umte merit. This is a warning. To act or not is up to your heart����"


    Prince Hanzue''s expression became uncertain, and Mr. Right also walked over to Mr. Left to examine the paper carefully. Both of them frowned.


    "Your Highness!" the two gentlemen looked at Prince Hanzue after putting down the paper.


    "How do you two see it?" Prince Hanzue frowned.


    "It should be announced. Whether people stay or leave should be left to fate," Mr. Left suggested.


    "It should be announced a few days before the end. Announcing it now might cause unnecessary panic and actions from those with ulterior motives," Mr. Right advised.


    "Alright, then we''ll wait until thest few days," Prince Hanzue nodded.


    "Understood," the two gentlemen replied��


    One Month Later, Inside a Hall in Fengling City''s Valley.


    Princess Qianyou was dressed in men''s clothing, holding a paper fan, and smiling slightly. "Sir, do you think Nian Youyou wille to see you again today?"


    Upon hearing Princess Qianyou''s question, Zhongshan smiled bitterly. Every few days, Nian Youyou woulde again, and Zhongshan could guess why. Nian Youyou wanted to prove her charm, or rather, she saw him merely as a tool for firming her resolve. But her charms always seemed to fail in his presence, leaving Nian Youyou frustrated. For such a confident and strong-willed woman, this kind of frustration was unbearable. It wasn''t just a feeling of defeat but also a questioning of her past beliefs. She wanted to indulge herself to prove that she had been right all along and to reaffirm her resolve.


    However, with the Red Phoenix Tianjing within him, how could he possibly indulge? That was the puzzle that left Nian Youyou perplexed.


    "Princess, what''s the deal with that Feng Shui fish?" Zhongshan quickly changed the subject. It was never wise to talk extensively about one woman in front of another.


    Seeing Zhongshan diverting the topic, Princess Qianyou smiled faintly and didn''t pursue further. "The Feng Shui fish is actually a part of the Feng Shui array. As for why it left Fengling City, it indicates a change in the Feng Shui array. However, regardless of the changes, the Feng Shui fish originates from the Feng Shui array and carries the imprint of the array within. The Feng Shui array is ever-changing, and sometimes the Feng Shui fish can y a crucial role in activating the array. It can even reverse danger into safety and turn cmity into fortune."


    "In that case, we don''t have enough Feng Shui fish. We need to find more," Zhongshan said.


    "But with millions of people in Fengling City, where can we find them? Last time, I and Ada were lucky to find one. And now, those who have Feng Shui fish would surely keep them well hidden," Second Senior expressed concern.


    "No, I know someone who definitely has one," Princess Qianyou said confidently.


    "Nian Youyou?" Second Senior asked incredulously. Rarely did anyone challenge her.


    "No, Xiao Qiushui!" Princess Qianyou said.


    "Xiao Qiushui?" Second Senior raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    "Yes, I''ll give you his portrait right away. You can search for him in Fengling City. If he caught a Feng Shui fish, he will definitelye to Fengling City. Perhaps he''s already lurking in some corner by now," Princess Qianyou said confidently.


    "Understood," Second Senior replied promptly.


    "Sir, Nian Youyou is here again," Ada walked in from outside the hall and reported.


    "Princess, describe Xiao Qiushui to Second Senior. I''ll go take a look," Zhongshan said.


    "Alright," Princess Qianyou nodded, but her brow furrowed slightly, indicating her unfriendliness towards Nian Youyou''s arrival.


    Outside the hall, upon seeing Nian Youyou, Zhongshan was momentarily stunned. Why was Nian Youyou dressed like this?

 Chapter 250: Verbal Duel Between the Two Women

    <h4>Chapter 250: Verbal Duel Between the Two Women</h4>


    Nian Youyou tied up her hair and wore a set of men''s clothing, or rather, it was exactly the same as Princess Qianyou''s men''s clothing. She held a paper fan in her hand and lightly tapped it, disying an elegant and graceful demeanor like a noble young man.


    Seeing this, Zhongshan smiled slightly and said, "Nian Youyou, we''re about to go out. Do you want to join us?"


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, Nian Youyou seemed slightly curious because Zhongshan hadn''t shown this attitude in their previous encounters. He used to avoid her whenever possible, but now he was suddenly inviting her along?


    "Of course, I''d love to," Nian Youyou replied immediately, blinking her big eyes.


    At that moment, Princess Qianyou also walked out with Second Senior.


    Seeing Nian Youyou''s attire, Princess Qianyou was slightly taken aback. Then, she waved her fan and smiled, "What''s this? Trying to copy my style?"


    "Who''s copying you? I''m just testing how attractive this outfit is to Zhongshan," Nian Youyou retorted, brandishing her fan as the two squared off.


    Watching the two women, Zhongshan smiled faintly. He no longer felt repelled by Nian Youyou as before. From their recent interactions, he realized that although Nian Youyou was mischievous, she wasn''t malicious. More importantly, he had learned that it was thanks to Nian Youyou''s help that Bei Qingsi could seek revenge. Since that was the case, what reason did he have to reject her? Let her have her fun. It wouldn''t hurt him.


    Following orders, Second Senior began searching for Xiao Qiushui in Fengling City, while Zhongshan took the two women to amercial district for shopping, with Big Senior naturally acting as a bodyguard.


    Throughout the journey, Princess Qianyou and Nian Youyou engaged in a battle of wits, their words sharp and incisive but without foulnguage. Every sentence was like a double-edged sword, exceptionally sharp, and they didn''t repeat themselves once.


    Watching from the side, Big Senior broke out in a cold sweat. Why did ordinary sentences sound so devastating when spoken by these two women? They were truly powerful. Indeed, two intelligent women arguing was the most terrifying thing, especially when they were as witty as these two. Listening to their banter, Big Senior felt like his mind and body were being torn apart.


    While Big Senior sweated nervously, Zhongshan enjoyed himself. Every clever remark the two women made in their rivalry was a testament to their eloquence. If they could pause their battle on the battlefield to argue, they would be worth a thousand troops.


    Walking ahead, Zhongshan enjoyed the banter between the two women. Despite their verbal sparring, they smiled at each other, presenting a harmonious picture. To outsiders, it seemed as if the four of them, with Zhongshan at the forefront, were a harmonious group with the two cross-dressed women as his wives or concubines.


    In a corner of themercial district far away, Evil me looked into the distance, a dry smile ying on his lips. Over the past few days, he had learned that the person with Nian Youyou was none other than Princess Qianyou of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty.


    Zhongshan, a mere Golden Core realm cultivator, had managed to captivate the princess of a heavenly dynasty and the saintess of a holynd. This guy was indeed having a stroke of luck.


    Behind Evil me stood two men. One was Chuba Mo Luo, and the other was a man who looked like a street thug.


    "Do you see that? The one on the right, the one disguised as a man," Evil me pointed to Nian Youyou in the distance.


    "Rest assured, Lord Demon, I recognize her. But afterwards..." the street thug-looking man chuckled.


    "Don''t worry. I''ll keep my promise. Once everything is done, I''ll give you a token to rmend you to the Netherworld Heaven," Evil me chuckled evilly.


    "Thank you, Lord Demon, thank you!" the street thug-looking man eximed excitedly.


    "Where is it?" Evil me asked.


    "Here it is. This is a specialty of Fengling City, a type of sky tail called ''Ink Jade Sky Tail,'' which only grows in this city. It''s the best quality we have in our shop," the street thug-looking man immediately took out a ck object resembling a flower.


    The Ink Jade Sky Tail had eight petals shaped like fox tails, soft and erect, emitting a faint and refreshing fragrance.


    "Sky tail? A specialty of Fengling City indeed. It''s said that a sky tail can only survive for no more than a month in the world," Evil me remarked, looking at the peculiar flower.


    "Yes, Fengling City has various types of sky tails. Sky tails have a unique fragrance that refreshes the mind and even nourishes the spirit. However, the downside is that they can only survive for a month. In thismercial district, out of seventy-two, only my shop has them," the street thug-looking man exined.


    "Good, it''s ck, and there''s a ck aura at the stamen," Evil me chuckled.


    Then, Evil me''s fingertips suddenly revealed his demonic seed, which slowly transformed into a stream of green smoke, attaching itself to the stamen of the Ink Jade Sky Tail.


    "Lord Demon, what are you doing?" the street thug-looking man asked in confusion.


    "Don''t worry too much. Once they enter your shop, just sell this Ink Jade Sky Tail to them. Remember, leave no trace, don''t let them suspect anything. Otherwise, not only will you not enter the Netherworld Heaven, but I''ll also wipe out your entire n," Evil me warned with a re.


    "Understood," the street thug-looking man replied, trembling.


    The street thug-looking man immediately went back to prepare, while Evil me and Chuba Mo Luo smiled faintly and disappeared from everyone''s sight.


    Meanwhile, with Zhongshan...


    Zhongshan smiled all the way as he listened to the two women''s verbal duel. Although their words were sharp, they were elegant and refined. While Big Senior felt chilled listening to them, Zhongshan enjoyed it. It had been a long time since he heard such an exciting verbal battle. asionally chiming in, he truly reveled in the moment.


    "Princess, you snatched my dragon bone fan. It looks incredibly handsome in your hands," Nian Youyouined, still resentful about Princess Qianyou taking her fan.


    "Even a deaf person can tell that you''re sincere with that statement," Princess Qianyou retorted immediately.


    "You saw through that? You really are like a worm in my belly," Nian Youyou fired back.


    "Speaking like that, you''re really endearing!" Princess Qianyou retorted again.


    ...If one didn''t listen to the dry tone of their voices, they would think that the rtionship between the two women was extremely friendly. However, amidst their banter, they continuously snatched each other''s belongings, then looked regretful as they observed what they lost.


    Big Senior had had enough, but Zhongshan just smiled and asked, "What''s that shop ahead?"


    Zhongshan interrupted the verbal battle between the two women and looked at the peculiar shop.


    Tianwei Tower!


    "Sir, this is Tianwei Tower, a specialty of Fengling City. Only this ce has it. A single mouthful of Tianwei can refresh the mind and even nourish one''s spirit. However, once it grows, it can only survive for a month, so it can''t be sold outside," Big Senior exined immediately.


    "Oh? Such a rare treasure? Let''s go and take a look," Zhongshan immediately stepped in.


    The two women followed closely behind, and Big Senior naturally followed at the back.


    As soon as they entered the shop, Zhongshan saw numerous shelves filled with a peculiar flower.


    "The four of you are from out of town, right? This is a specialty of Fengling City. In this wholemercial district, only my shop has it. Don''t miss out," the street thug-looking man, who had been previously bought off by Evil me, immediately stepped forward with a smile.


    "Out of town? How did you know we''re from out of town?" Zhongshan looked at the shop owner in surprise.


    The shop owner frowned slightly but still smiled and said, "Because locals wouldn''te to Tianwei Tower. They might have it at home. That''s also why Tianwei Tower is scarce in Fengling City."


    "Oh!" Zhongshan smiled faintly.


    "I heard that the sky tails here can nourish one''s spirit?" Nian Youyou asked.


    "Yes, the sky tails here in my shop are the mostprehensive and the best in all of Fengling City," the shop owner replied.


    "The best?" Nian Youyou looked puzzled.


    "This is the best one in my shop, the Ink Jade Sky Tail. It''s also the only one in nearly half a year. You four came at the right time. If it''s half a monthter, even if you pay, it will wither," the shop owner said, taking out the ck flower that Evil me had imnted with his demonic seed.


    "ck? It looks so ugly," Nian Youyou said impatiently.


    Hearing Nian Youyou''s words, the shop owner''s mouth twitched with anxiety. If Lord Demon asked him to sell it to her, why wouldn''t she take it? But why wasn''t she interested?


    "You think it''s ugly, but I don''t. Boss, how much?" Princess Qianyou smiled.


    Hearing Princess Qianyou''s words, the shop owner became even more flustered.


    "I only said it was ugly, but I didn''t say I didn''t want it. Boss, how much?" Nian Youyou immediately interjected.


    Seeing Nian Youyou wanting it again, the shop owner''s face lit up with joy. This was chaotic.


    "Twenty thousand high-grade spirit stones," the shop owner said.


    "I''ll take it. I''ll give you twenty thousand high-grade spirit stones," Princess Qianyou said.


    The shop owner became even more depressed when he saw Princess Qianyou wanting it. He thought for a moment and said, "But, this youngdy..."


    "Yes, I wanted it first," Nian Youyou immediately retorted.


    "You only said ''I didn''t say I didn''t want it.'' You didn''t say you wanted it. I said I wanted it first," Princess Qianyou immediately smiled back.


    And with that, Princess Qianyou''s words once again thwarted what the shop owner was about to say. Looking at the two women, he felt utterly frustrated.


    "Why don''t you ask the boss whether he wants to sell it to you or to me?" Nian Youyou smiled.


    Of course, the shop owner wanted to sell it to Nian Youyou. But saying it outright would be too obvious. It would be disastrous if he were found out.


    "Well..." The shop owner looked at the two women, hesitating slightly.


    "Boss, I wanted it first. There are rules in business, firste, first served. Give it to me," Princess Qianyou said.


    Neither of the two women chose to raise the price or use charm techniques. For Nian Youyou, the shop owner wasn''t even worthy of seeing her charm, and raising the price would be a foolish move. Having walked this path more than once, the two women were ready to use their silver tongues to snatch the Ink Jade Sky Tail once again.

 Chapter 251:Three Thousand Roses

    <h4>Chapter 251:Three Thousand Roses</h4>


    The two women continued their verbal sparring, each trying to outdo the other with their rhetoric. They were relentless, with no repetition, all trying to "win" with reason. Adai stood on the side, ustomed to it all. He acted as if he hadn''t heard anything, while Zhongshan enjoyed watching the two women argue.


    Only the shop owner was feeling the pressure. He was sweating profusely, feeling anxious as he listened to the two women argue. He wanted to just give the Ink Jade Sky Tail to Nian Youyou, but he was afraid. How could he give it to her without making it too obvious? If he did, she might not want it anymore.


    The two women were now fighting for a moral victory. The quality of the item no longer mattered.


    "Both of you, let me make the decision," the shop owner finally couldn''t bear it anymore. Listening to the two women argue, and having picked out a customer himself, only to watch as the merchandise was passed back and forth, he felt like he was on the brink of death. It was torturous.


    "Alright, boss, you better decide carefully," Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Yes, after all I said so much just now, don''t let me down," Nian Youyou also stopped and said.


    At this moment, Zhongshan also sensed something was wrong, but where was the problem? The shop owner kept looking at Nian Youyou as if wanting her to buy it. Also, was it really true that every household in Fengling City had Sky Tails, and that shops were only open to outsiders? That didn''t seem right. At the very least, where he lived, there were none.


    Regardless, Zhongshan gave Adai a signal.


    Adai nodded slightly and began to cast a spell.


    "Ouch~" Suddenly, the shop owner clutched his dantian in pain, his face twisted in agony.


    "Boss, boss, what''s wrong?" A shop assistant rushed over to help.


    Sweat poured down the shop owner''s forehead, and both women frowned and looked at Adai strangely, then at Zhongshan.


    "I don''t know, my true essence suddenly went off course. I can''t go on like this; I must adjust my breath. Otherwise, it''ll be disastrous if I lose control of my powers," the shop owner said, his face contorted in pain as if even speaking was difficult.


    "Boss, boss!" The shop assistant helped the boss into the back room.


    Once in the back room, the shop owner seemed to recover a bit. Looking at the Ink Jade Sky Tail in his hand, he was startled. "Quickly go back and sell this Ink Jade Sky Tail to the girl on the right. Hurry, even if you don''t take any money, give it to her."


    "Yes," the shop assistant said, feeling puzzled, and quickly ran out.


    However, when the shop assistant came out, she was dumbfounded because at this moment, the two women were standing in a straight line, a north-south line. Right side? There was no right side now, only front and back.


    "The boss told me to sell it to you," the shop assistant said with a perplexed tone.


    Hearing the shop assistant''s return, the two women immediately stepped forward again.


    "Give it to me," Nian Youyou said.


    "Give it to me," Princess Qianyou said.


    The shop assistant looked at the two women, feeling a bit puzzled. Who did the boss say to give it to? But no matter who, they were together.


    "Um, whoever offers more money, I''ll give it to them," the shop assistant said. Obviously unable to find the person, she had to make the decision herself, hoping this would make up for the boss''s earlier mistake.


    "Twenty thousand, just twenty thousand. We won''t add a single spirit stone. It''s up to you," Nian Youyou smiled.


    Hearing Nian Youyou''s words, the shop assistant frowned, feeling a bit stuck.


    "How about this, my husband once gave me a method, which can turn an Ascending Pill into a Infant Transformation Pill out of thin air. I won''t pay, and I''ll exchange it for this secret technique. What do you say?" Princess Qianyou suddenly smiled.


    "Turn an Ascending Pill into an Infant Transformation Pill out of thin air?" Nian Youyou looked at Zhongshan with disbelief.


    Zhongshan could only smile wryly and nod, admitting it.


    "Impossible!" The shop assistant immediately eximed.


    At this moment, Princess Qianyou took out a jade slip and said, "It''s this. If you''re willing, it''s yours. Of course, you can take a look first. If what I said is true, then this Ink Jade Sky Tail must be given to me."


    "Alright," the shop assistant affirmed.


    If it was true, then she would be lucky. If not, she could simply refuse to sell it to her.


    Nian Youyou nced at Zhongshan, feeling a strange sensation. But this time, she didn''t refute. Instead, she looked at Zhongshan with a scrutinizing gaze, as if suspecting that Zhongshan deliberately helped Princess Qianyou just to annoy her.


    The shop assistant took the jade slip and looked at it. After a quick nce, she was slightly stunned, then ecstatic. "Yes, it''s true! It really changed!"


    Nian Youyou looked at the shop assistant in astonishment, while the shop assistant eagerly put away the jade slip.


    "How, have you seen those things before?" Princess Qianyou asked in confusion.


    "I used to work in many shops, so I''m familiar with these goods. It''s true," the shop assistant eximed excitedly.


    Princess Qianyou reached out, and the shop assistant immediately handed over the Ink Jade Sky Tail.


    Grasping the Ink Jade Sky Tail, Princess Qianyou looked triumphantly at Nian Youyou.


    But Nian Youyou looked at Zhongshan with resentment.


    Zhongshan was speechless. This was an unwarranted disaster.


    Princess Qianyou didn''t wait for Zhongshan to inspect it. In front of Nian Youyou, she confidently brought it to her nose, looking victorious. And before Zhongshan could stop her, it was toote.


    With a deep breath, Princess Qianyou suddenly widened her eyes, panic evident in them.


    "Snap!"


    The Ink Jade Sky Tail was thrown out.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhongshan asked immediately.


    "It''s not right. There''s something inside. I felt something bad being sucked in by me. This is bad," Princess Qianyou said angrily.


    "Adai!" Zhongshan called out.


    Adai directly rushed into the back room and directly captured the shop owner.


    "Tell me, what''s inside?" Zhongshan directly red at him.


    "What? There''s nothing inside!" The shop owner denied categorically.


    "Let''s go," Zhongshan said straightforwardly.


    Then, grabbing the shop owner, the four quickly left the Ink Jade Sky Tower. The shop assistants chased after them, but the four disappeared quickly from the crowd.


    The shop assistants hurriedly went to report to the authorities.


    At this moment, not far from the Ink Jade Sky Tower, Xieyan and Chuba Mo Luo appeared again.


    "Unexpectedly, Princess Qianyou sucked it in. Although it''s a bit worse than expected, having a princess from the Heavenly Empire as a female ve is also a good thing," Xieyan said with a wicked smile.


    In the hall of the valley where Zhongshan lived, the former shop ownery copsed. It was evident that he had fainted.


    Princess Qianyou looked terrified, Adai looked worried, while Nian Youyou had an expression of schadenfreude.


    Zhongshan stared at Adai and asked, "Was that Xieyan? What did Xieyan put inside?"


    "I think it should be Xieyan''s demonic seed," Nian Youyou said with glee.


    "Demonic seed?" Princess Qianyou''s face was full of fear and panic.


    "What''s a demonic seed? What is it used for?" Zhongshan asked immediately.


    Adai also looked worried, but he quickly exined to Zhongshan, because now, for Adai, the master''s wish was everything. Since the master was so magical, he must be able to save the princess.


    "Three days? You said three days? If the demonic seed isn''t removed within three days, it will take root and sprout inside the princess''s body, and there will be no chance to remove it. Half a yearter, even her thoughts will be controlled, turning her into a pure ve?" Zhongshan''s eyes widened.


    "Yes," Adai said, hopeful.


    "What''s the way to remove it? How do we remove it?" Zhongshan immediately asked.


    "The demonic seed was left behind by the former demonic lord. Unless we return to the imperial court and have the Emperor or the strongest like the First Crown Prince remove it, it''s impossible. Oh, there''s a mysterious figure here, Xuan Yuan. I''ve never been able to see through him, but perhaps he can help," Adai said immediately.


    "Xuan Yuan? He''s neither alive nor dead. Apart from guarding the seal, he won''t help you with anything else, and you don''t even know him," Nian Youyou suddenlyughed.


    Turning to look at Nian Youyou, Zhongshan frowned, staring at her intently.


    "What? Why are you looking at me like that?" Nian Youyou suddenly asked, puzzled.


    "Do you know another method?" Zhongshan said with certainty. Because Zhongshan knew that if Nian Youyou didn''t have a solution, she wouldn''t be in her current demeanor, at least not gloating. And most importantly, Nian Youyou didn''t leave, as if waiting for Zhongshan to ask her.


    "I do know another method, but why should I help you?" Nian Youyou suddenly teased.


    Seeing Nian Youyou still using her charm at this moment, Zhongshan felt helpless. "Alright, what do you want? You''re here, which means you want to negotiate terms with me."


    With a slightly surprised look at Zhongshan, Nian Youyou said, "I''m starting to like you more and more. But for this method, I''m really reluctant to use it on her."


    Hearing Nian Youyou''s words, everyone looked at her.


    "Speak, what are your conditions?" Zhongshan said.


    "Rarely do Ipete with Princess Qianyou, but your method ruined it all. You''ve really hurt my feelings. No, if you''re giving her that method, you also have to give me something simr," Nian Youyou said with a smile.


    With a slight frown, Zhongshan said helplessly, "What do you want me to give you?"


    "Flowers. I like roses. There are three thousand types of roses in the world. I want you to personally pick one of each kind for me, and for each one you give me, you have to say a love phrase to me. How about that?" Nian Youyou blinked and said.


    Looking at Nian Youyou, Zhongshan was speechless. "How long do I have?"


    "Complete it within a hundred years," Nian Youyou said.


    "Okay!" Zhongshan agreed readily. At the same time, he was very puzzled. Why wasn''t Nian Youyou as entangled this time?


    Seeing Zhongshan agree, Nian Youyou smiled triumphantly, then looked at Princess Qianyou.


    But Princess Qianyou looked at Nian Youyou with indignation.


    "The stuff of the Netherworld, I''ve researched it in the Longevity Realm. Demonic seeds, ve thoughts... They can only be removed when a person''s mind is in a state of egolessness," Nian Youyou said.


    "How do we achieve that?" Zhongshan frowned.


    In a swift motion, Nian Youyou produced a small purple bottle with a sinister smile.


    "What''s this?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "A love potion. A spring potion," Nian Youyouughed.

 Chapter 252 - 252 Love Debt

    <h4>Chapter 252: Love Debt</h4>


    Upon hearing what was inside the purple bottle from Nian Youyou, Princess Qianyou felt a mixture of embarrassment and anger.


    Adai also looked at Nian Youyou indignantly, as if she was toying with them.


    "How do we use this?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Princess Qianyou should be at the stage of Unity, right?" Nian Youyou asked.


    "Yes," Zhongshan confirmed.


    "At the Unity stage, it must act on the primordial spirit to be effective. There aren''t many drugs in the world that can elicit a response from the princess at this stage anymore. Fortunately, this bottle of mine can. Just let the princess reach the peak of that **, lose herself temporarily, and the demonic seed will lose its target briefly. Then, we can use true essence to force it out. However, once the demonic seed emerges, the princess will be poisoned. How will we deal with that?" Nian Youyou smirked.


    Princess Qianyou bit her lip, her eyes filled with uncertainty as she looked at Nian Youyou''s triumphant expression. Although she felt extremely angry, she couldn''t help but nce at Zhongshan.


    "Is this true?" Zhongshan raised an eyebrow.


    "Absolutely true. I''m still waiting for those three thousand roses," Nian Youyou chuckled.


    Princess Qianyou bit her lip and looked at Zhongshan, unsure of how to speak up, while Nian Youyou stood by, looking pleased with herself.


    Walking back and forth in the hall, Zhongshan finally looked at Princess Qianyou and said, "Princess, this time, I need you to trust me again, okay?"


    Looking at Zhongshan, Princess Qianyou''s eyes softened slightly. "I''ve always trusted you."


    Upon receiving Princess Qianyou''s reply, Zhongshan immediately said, "Adai, the princess and I will enter the bedroom on the west side to remove the demonic seed. You''ll guard outside, and no one is allowed to disturb us. You''re not allowed to enter unless wee out."


    "Yes," Adai responded immediately.


    "Also, please seal the princess''s powers," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," Adai responded, and soon Princess Qianyou''s powers were sealed.


    With a peculiar expression on Nian Youyou''s face, Zhongshan led Princess Qianyou into one of the bedrooms on the west side, with gs arrayed around the perimeter as an added precaution, even though Adai was guarding outside.


    "Why, don''t you want this aphrodisiac anymore?" Nian Youyou chuckled.


    "I''ll let you know when I need it," Zhongshan shook his head and led Princess Qianyou into the bedroom.


    Watching Zhongshan close the door, Nian Youyou furrowed her brows, her eyes filled with curiosity.


    Inside the bedroom, Zhongshan looked at Princess Qianyou, whose powers had been sealed. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Princess, I''m going to remove the demonic seed ording to Nian Youyou''s method."


    Princess Qianyou''s face flushed involuntarily. She wanted to ask Zhongshan why he didn''t use Nian Youyou''s aphrodisiac, but at this moment, she couldn''t find the words to speak, and could only utter a soft "okay."


    "Princess, please sit down," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    The two of them sat facing each other on the bed, cross-legged.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan looked at Princess Qianyou, whose cheeks were slightly flushed.


    Aphrodisiacs... what else in the world couldpare to the Red Phoenix Mist? The world truly had all sorts of strange methods. And unlike other aphrodisiacs, the Red Phoenix Mist could be reimed, making it truly versatile.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou''s flushed cheeks, Zhongshan took a deep breath and said, "Princess, I''m forced to use this method to remove the demonic seed. Please trust Zhongshan. Besides removing the demonic seed, I won''t disrespect you in any way. Please rx your bodypletely and entrust yourself to me, okay?"


    As Zhongshan looked at Princess Qianyou, even though the Red Phoenix Mist hadn''t taken effect yet, her eyes had already be watery.


    "Okay," Princess Qianyou nodded slightly.


    "Rx, I''m here for you!"


    -------------------------------------------------- One dayter --------------------------------------------------


    Outside Princess Qianyou''s bedroom, Adai paced back and forth with a trace of worry in his eyes, while Nian Youyou frowned. Why didn''t Zhongshan use her medicine? Why? Did he also find it inadequate?


    Adai came back, standing beside Adai, his eyes filled with anger towards Xie Yan.


    The three of them waited outside while inside the bedroom.


    On the bed, Princess Qianyou''s cheeks were still flushed, supporting herself somewhat exhaustedly. Seeing her disheveled clothes, she quickly tidied up, adjusting her sweaty hair. She turned to look at Zhongshan, who was sitting on the floor.


    Zhongshan sat cross-legged, seemingly meditating, with his palms facing upwards and ced t on his knees. In the center of Zhongshan''s palms was the demonic seed that had been removed.


    Zhongshan looked solemn, while Princess Qianyou seemed dazed, recalling the events of the past day and night, her entire being feeling extremely warm.


    Zhongshan was courteous and kept his promises. Besides removing the demonic seed, he didn''t do anything else. However, Princess Qianyou became unusually passionate after being affected by the Red Phoenix Mist. If her powers hadn''t been sealed beforehand, Zhongshan might have taken advantage of her.


    However, they had finally ovee it. With Zhongshan exerting full control over Princess Qianyou, she sumbed to his seductive voice and fell into a deep sleep when she reached the peak of forgetting herself during her hazy dreams.


    Seizing this opportunity, Zhongshan sessfully removed the demonic seed, albeit at great cost to himself.


    After retracting the Red Phoenix Mist, Zhongshanid Princess Qianyou down and sat on the side, beginning to meditate and examine the demonic seed in his hand.


    Princess Qianyou tidied herself up and nced at Zhongshan somewhat awkwardly. Despite her extraordinary intelligence, how could a young maiden like herself face such a situation?


    Sitting quietly on the side, she waited for Zhongshan to awaken, like a little bride awaiting her husband''s awakening.


    An hourter, Zhongshan sighed deeply and opened his eyes.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou''s watery eyes as she looked at him, Zhongshan took a deep breath and said, "Princess, are you feeling better now?"


    "Okay," Princess Qianyou whispered.


    "Now that the demonic seed has been removed, as long as the princess is fine," Zhongshan said.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, Princess Qianyou felt annoyed. What did he mean by ''fine''? Although nothing happened during the past day and night, how could she be ''fine''? What would happen to her in the future?


    Zhongshan naturally knew that after the events of the previous day, saying she was ''fine'' was impossible. But what else could Zhongshan do?


    Looking at Princess Qianyou''s slightly annoyed expression, Zhongshan took a deep breath and said, "Princess, what happened yesterday, to say we could forget about it, might be a joke for both of us. During our time together, I''ve naturally seen the princess''s excellence and beauty. Tell me, which man in this world wouldn''t be moved?"


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, Princess Qianyou''s eyes lit up, but she also raised an eyebrow at Zhongshan, because she knew there was more to his words.


    "I, Zhongshan, have three wives: Wei Kui''er, Gan Bao''er, and Tian Ling''er, as well as a confidante, Bei Qingsi. Perhaps the princess can guess from my previous words. Zhongshan already bears a heavy burden of emotional debt. To be honest, Zhongshan doesn''t want to carry any more emotional debt. It''s not only a burden on others but also on oneself, and it''s even more of a hindrance during cultivation." Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "However, I, Zhongshan, am also a person with a cleanliness obsession. My women are absolutely off-limits to others, even those who have had rtions with me," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s sudden change in tone, Princess Qianyou''s eyes lit up again. She clenched her small fists, her eyes revealing a hint ofplexity.


    "I know the disparity between us, Princess. It''s like the difference between heaven and earth. A mere Golden Core cultivator attempting to win the favor of a princess from the Heavenly Dynasty. Even if not to you, to outsiders, it''s uneptable," Zhongshan continued.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Princess Qianyou bit her lip, acknowledging that Zhongshan was speaking the truth.


    "I, Zhongshan, fear no one in this world. How can a sparrow understand the aspirations of a swan? I can only say that what happened today, we can temporarily forget. I can sense a hint of affection from you, Princess, but I also know that this affection is not deep. As for my admiration for you, it is not as intense as my feelings for my wives. Perhaps in a few days, we will be able to forget the ripples of the past, and time will prove everything. We both need to ask ourselves what''s in our hearts. If the princess''s heart doesn''t include me, then I, Zhongshan, am capable of letting go. I won''t be burdened by love! Nor will I be ashamed of it!" Zhongshan said firmly.


    "And if there is?" Princess Qianyou stared at Zhongshan intently.


    "If there is? Even if separated by Yin and Yang, it cannot break us apart," Zhongshan affirmed.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, Princess Qianyou inexplicably felt a sense of relief.


    "Is this your promise to me?" Princess Qianyou took a deep breath and stared at Zhongshan.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan said, "Whether it''s a promise or not depends on our hearts. I, Zhongshan, will try my best not to be burdened by love, but sometimes it may be beyond my control, just like with Ling''er. I''ve tried my best to avoid it before, but when fate intervenes, human effort is futile."


    After listening to Zhongshan for a while, Princess Qianyou''s previous embarrassment disappeared from her eyes, reced by a calm smile. She looked at Zhongshan without any hindrance and said, "Alright, I''ll listen to what you say, Mister."


    Seeing Princess Qianyou return to her usual self, Zhongshan nodded in satisfaction. From this moment on, Princess Qianyou made a decision. The title "Mister" would only be used for Zhongshan. No one else, not even the Water Mirror Mister she encountered before, would be addressed as "Mister" by Princess Qianyou. "Mister" would henceforth be reserved for Zhongshan alone.

 Chapter 253: The Seal Breaks

    <h4>Chapter 253: The Seal Breaks</h4>


    Princess Qianyou ''recovers.'' She and Zhongshan looked at the demonic seed imprisoned in Zhongshan''s palm together. The ck demonic seed trembled slightly, and Zhongshan frowned as he looked at it.


    "Sir, it''s impossible to control the demonic seed. It bears the imprint of the Demon Lord. If it doesn''t take root within three days, it will dissipate and return to the hands of Xieyan," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yeah, I tried just now, and it couldn''t even be stored in my storage bracelet," Zhongshan frowned.


    "What are you nning to do, sir?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "What to do? I haven''t reached the realm of repaying grievances with virtue. Since they plotted against us, naturally, we have to plot back," Zhongshan raised an eyebrow.


    "Let''s go, let''s go out first," Zhongshan said as he held the demonic seed in his palm.


    "Okay," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Then, the two opened the door.


    Outside the door, three people were still patiently waiting. Ada and A''er''s faces were full of worry.


    Seeing the twoing out, they immediately called out, "Princess, are you okay? Was the demonic seed pulled out?"


    Nian Youyou, however, looked at Princess Qianyou with astonishment. Her eyes were full of disbelief because she noticed that Princess Qianyou''s expression was normal now, without a trace of embarrassment. Wait, before the demonic seed was pulled out, Princess Qianyou still had a blush of embarrassment, but now, what happened? Nothing at all? It shouldn''t be like this, did Zhongshan use another method? But what other method could there be?


    Nian Youyou''s eyes were full of astonishment. But Zhongshan just smiled slightly and opened his palm, where the demonic seed floated.


    Seeing the demonic seed, Ada and A''er both sighed in relief.


    Ada quickly released several spells on Princess Qianyou to lift the ban on her mana.


    "Princess, sir, Xieyan must not be spared," Ada immediately said angrily.


    "What about the shopkeeper?" Zhongshan asked Ada.


    "Someone who dared to plot against the princess cannot be left alive in this world," Ada said immediately.


    Hearing Ada''s words, Zhongshan was speechless.


    "Princess, I got the Fengshui Fish," A''er immediately took out a Fengshui Fish.


    "Oh? Obtained from Xiao Qiushui?" Princess Qianyou asked with satisfaction.


    "Yes, I captured Xiao Qiushui and left him unconscious in that room because I was worried about the princess and didn''t deal with him. I just knocked him out and left him in that room," A''er said.


    "Good, well done, A''er!" Zhongshan immediately eximed excitedly.


    "Um, thank you, sir," A''er looked at Zhongshan strangely. Why was the sir praising him so much?


    "Take me to see," Zhongshan said.


    Princess Qianyou smiled slightly, as if she knew what Zhongshan was going to do.


    Led by A''er, everyone went to the room, and sure enough, Xiao Qiushui was lying on the ground.


    Zhongshan walked up and ced the demonic seed in front of Xiao Qiushui''s nose. Slowly, he imnted the demonic seed back into Xiao Qiushui''s body.


    Watching this scene, Nian Youyou couldn''t help but twitch her facial muscles unconsciously, feeling sad for Xiao Qiushui, and also for Xieyan. After half a year, when the demonic seedpletely merged into Xiao Qiushui''s body, Xieyan summoned his female ve, but what he summoned back was... And if this demonic seed was nted for half a year, even Xieyan himself couldn''t retrieve it intact.


    "Princess, the old scores have been settled," Zhongshan said.


    "Yeah, A''er, find a ce where no one is around and throw Xiao Qiushui out," Princess Qianyou nodded in satisfaction.


    "Yes," A''er immediately agreed. Then, with a trace of doubt, he carried Xiao Qiushui and disappeared in the room��


    In the hall of the Sealed Spirit City, Xieyan frowned slightly.


    "What''s wrong, young master?" Eighth Demon Luo asked.


    "I felt something unusual about the demonic seed, but it''s fine now. It should be Princess Qianyou who found someone to pull it out, but failed, and it recovered. Hmph, my demonic seed is not so easy to remove. Since it can''t be removed, let it obediently be my female ve half a yearter, haha!" Xieyanughed wildly.


    "Congrattions, young master," Eighth Demon Luo immediately said.


    "Mm," Xieyan nodded in satisfaction��


    Another three months passed, and the time mentioned by Xuanyuan had arrived.


    Ten days ago, the officials of the Sealed Spirit City began to announce throughout the city that there was an extremely vicious demon in the Fengshui Array, the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tail, and all the city residents should leave the city within ten days.


    Most of the people with low strength in the city were self-aware and left the city. Even many people in the Golden Core Period left the city, but more chose to stay behind. With the Fengshui Array activated, there must be treasures inside. Maybe they would be the luckiest ones? A vicious demon? Why didn''t therge army of the Sealed Spirit City leave? Those who stayed behind sneered at the announcement.


    On this day, a thick fog suddenly rose throughout the Sealed Spirit City. This fog was very strange; it could weaken the originally released divine senses to one-tenth of their original power, which means that what could originally be explored within ten zhang could now only be explored within one zhang.


    In the circr valley where Xuanyuan was located.


    The original Xuanyuan had disappeared, and the time hade. Xuanyuan didn''t even bother to take a look at what was sealed; he disappeared in front of everyone.


    On the peaks of the mountains, there were already people standing, of course, they were all those who guessed that this was the source of the seal, and there were even more people scattered around the city.


    On a mountain peak.


    "Your Highness, aren''t we leaving?" Mr. Zuo frowned and asked.


    "Hehe, we''ve waited so long, shouldn''t we take a look? The world''s most vicious creature, what exactly is the world''s most vicious creature? There are three hundred thousand troops in the city, what am I afraid of? What if it''s not the ''Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tail''? Wouldn''t we have missed it?" Prince Han Jue said.


    "Your Highness is wise," Mr. Zuo immediately agreed.


    On another mountain peak, Xieyan looked at Princess Qianyou on the distant mountain peak with a trace of silverughter. It seemed that soon, Princess Qianyou would be his. Eighth Demon Luo stood beside Xieyan, protecting Xieyan at all times.


    Xiao Qiushui never came back. He had been thrown out of the city by A''er a long time ago, and he left early without the Fengshui Fish, feeling a little unwilling.


    In a sh, and another sh, then another, like a breath.


    As this breath-like flickering continued, all the various Tianwei Towers in the entire Sealed Spirit City suddenly opened and closed, as if breathing. Not only the Tianwei Towers, but also the Tianwei growing everywhere in the Sealed Spirit City, opened and closed like breathing.


    The seal was about to break, and everyone''s attention was focused on the center.


    "Crackling..."


    The circr valley below suddenly shook and transformed into twenty-fouryers, eachyer containing different small grids. In each grid, there were some characters resembling the heavenly stems and earthly branches.


    Twenty-four circles, apass, a giganticpass in the valley? Thepass had twenty-fouryers, rotating clockwise or counterclockwise, fast or slow. It emitted a faint radiance and faintly radiant.


    At the center of the celestial pool, a sudden burst of golden light erupted.


    Arge ''Swastika'' pattern floated slowly in the air, emitting a dazzling golden light, continuously suppressing the celestial pool.


    Beside the ''Swastika,'' there were also many small ''Swastikas'' surrounding it, seemingly gathering energy to enhance the power of therge ''Swastika.''


    At the same time, on the surface of the giantpass, four shadow-like ws suddenly appeared, dragon ws, extending from the celestial pool to the southeast, northwest, piercing through the mountain peaks under everyone''s feet, and it was unclear where they extended to.


    "Sir, this Fengshui array should be a time-limited array," Princess Qianyou said.


    "A time-limited array?" Zhongshan puzzled.


    "Yes, time-limited arrays have fixed time limits. I don''t know how many years this one is limited to, but one thing is for sure, today is its time limit. Even if we don''t break it, whatever is sealed inside will be released," Princess Qianyou said.


    "This is a ten-thousand-year array, limited to ten thousand years," Nian Youyou suddenly narrowed her eyes and said. Her brows furrowed slightly.


    "A ten-thousand-year array?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yes, usually, it''s because the thing sealed inside is rted to the Fengshui Master. The Fengshui Master seals it for ten thousand years to cleanse all connections with oneself. After ten thousand years, the Fengshui Master doesn''t care anymore. However, the ''Swastika'' sealing the celestial pool should be left by a Bodhisattva from the Pure Land of Bliss. I didn''t expect this seal to not only have traces of the Fengshui Master but also be rted to the Pure Land of Bliss," Nian Youyou said.


    The golden ''Swastika'' expanded and contracted, and within the entire Sealed Spirit City, the endless Tianwei also seemed to be lively.


    "Break it!" Prince Han Jue shouted.


    "Yes!" Suddenly, there was a sound of countless armor and weapons all around.


    At themand of each person, tens of thousands of breaking arrows shot directly at therge ''Swastika.''


    "Boom~"


    Tens of thousands of breaking arrows directly shattered therge ''Swastika'' in one round. Perhaps the ''Swastika'' seal had be extremely weak after enduring ten thousand years, or perhaps it was the collective effort of the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails inside, but in any case, the ''Swastika'' was broken under the barrage of arrows.

 Chapter 254:Eight Extreme Heaven鈥檚 Tails

    <h4>Chapter 254:Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails</h4>


    Boom~~~ Boom~~~ Boom~~~ Boom~~~


    Four consecutive loud noises echoed throughout the Sealed Spirit City, and everyone looked around in astonishment. At the moment when the ''Swastika'' seal was shattered by the thousands of breaking arrows, the four dragon ws on thepass suddenly disappeared.


    And where the loud noises came from turned out to be the directions of the four main gates of the Sealed Spirit City.


    What''s going on? What happened to the city gates?


    "You, take some people to see what''s going on," Prince Han Jue ordered a subordinate official.


    "Yes," the official immediately replied, then turned around and hurried towards the city gates with some people.


    Although others were puzzled, no one left because the seal had been broken. The giantpass stopped rotating, and a dark hole appeared in the celestial pool.


    Inside the hole, there was no expected evil aura spreading out, but it seemed more like a ck hole, daunting everyone''s spirits.


    Keeping their minds steady, everyone waited quietly to see what was inside the hole.


    "Yiya~~~"


    Suddenly, an extremely cute squeak came from inside the hole.


    "Yiya, Yiya~~~"


    After two more calls, most people swallowed their saliva because they had never heard such a sound before, or rather, had never heard it from any known animal. What in the world was it?


    "Hoo~~~"


    A red fox tail suddenly protruded from the hole. The fox tail swayed, captivating everyone''s attention.


    "Hoo~~~"


    Another white fox tail emerged from the hole.


    "Hoo hoo~~~"


    One after another, yellow, blue, purple. Tails of various colors emerged.


    Finally, everyone could see what it was. Tianwei, a unique flower native to the Sealed Spirit City.


    But, was this still a flower? With no roots or stems, eight petals of different colored fox tails pointed upwards. At the center, there were a pair of incredibly cute, twinkling eyes, and a cute little mouth slightly tilted, as if smiling sweetly.


    Incredibly adorable! At this moment, the eyes of many female cultivators lit up with excitement.


    Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails? This was the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails?


    Zhongshan frowned as he looked at these Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails. Although they were adorable, Zhongshan didn''t dare to underestimate them. After they appeared, the ck hole in the celestial pool disappeared, meaning they were the sealed beings, sealed by the Fengshui Master and a certain Bodhisattva together. This little fellow was definitely not as simple as it seemed on the surface.


    "Yiya, Yiya..."


    The little Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails were only the size of two palms. Seeing countless cultivators on the mountains, they seemed very happy and excited. As for why they were happy and excited, no one knew.


    "The Tianwei has be sentient? Isn''t it a nt? Why does it seem like an animal?" A''da eximed in astonishment.


    "It''s not that the Tianwei has be sentient, but the Tianwei throughout the entire Sealed Spirit City has originated from it. Because of it, there are so many Tianwei flowers here," Princess Qianyou narrowed her eyes and said.


    "Indeed," Zhongshan nodded. Why were there no Tianwei flowers outside the city, only here? It must be because of this ''Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails''.


    "Yiya, Yiya..."


    The Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails seemed extremely excited, quickly jumping up and flying joyfully towards one of the mountain peaks. The person on that peak, upon seeing the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails flying towards them, was also extremely excited, quickly rushing forward to grab it. Meanwhile, others on the surrounding peaks were also itching to move, some of them already flying over.


    The fastest among them reached the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails, their faces filled with ecstasy. At this moment, the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails also showed excitement, as if it had not seen humans for thousands of years and was eager to be close to them.


    But, in the next moment, all those who flew towards the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails suddenly stopped in their tracks, some even panicked and turned back.


    Because in that split second just now, everyone saw an extremely terrifying scene.


    The Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails, incredibly cute, suddenly elongated its tiny mouth, getting bigger and bigger, until it wasrge enough to swallow the first person who approached it.


    That person didn''t even have time to scream before they were swallowed whole, exploding inside the mouth of the tiny Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails. Most of their flesh and blood were swallowed by the little creature, but when their body exploded, arge amount of blood sprayed out.


    "Yiya, Yiya, Yiya..."


    Having swallowed a person, the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails remained the same size, incredibly cheerful and excited. It looked as cute as ever.


    But at this moment, who still thought it was cute? Its excitement wasn''t because it saw humans and wanted to be close to them; it was excited because it saw ''delicacies'' it hadn''t seen in thousands of years.


    "The person who was just eaten was at the peak of the Golden Core stage," Princess Qianyou said softly.


    "Yiya, Yiya, Yiya..."


    The Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails swiftly rushed towards others, causing those with lower cultivation levels to retreat in fear. A man at the Nascent Soul stage flew up to meet it, sending a powerful sword energy straight at the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails.


    "Hoo~~~"


    The massive sword energy was actually swallowed by the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails as it opened its mouth wide, and then it continued to charge towards the man.


    The man panicked and stabbed with his sword, but the sword energy was also swallowed by the seemingly bottomless pit of the creature''s stomach.


    The man was extremely terrified, surrounded by sword energy, but the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails lightly brushed away the sword energy with its tails and then swallowed the man whole.


    The man was at the Nascent Soul stage, and he even tried to protect himself with his strongest shield, but the shield seemed a bit thin, easily bitten through by the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails, which then devoured himpletely.


    "Yiya, Yiya, Yiya..."


    The Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails were overjoyed, leaping joyfully in the air.


    Everyone was dumbfounded. Nascent Soul stage, that person was at the Nascent Soul stage, and they were swallowed whole? What kind of monster was this? Why had no one ever heard of it before?


    Prince Han Jue swallowed hard.


    "Prince, it seems like we may have made a mistake just now," Mr. Zuo said anxiously.


    "Let''s observe a bit more," Prince Han Jue said.


    "Yes!" Mr. Zuo replied.


    The Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails continued to be excited, swiftly rushing towards another person. The person panicked and turned to run, but the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails'' speed seemed incredibly fierce, making it impossible to escape.


    Just as the situation was at a critical juncture, the person suddenly took out a Feng Shui fish.


    "Yiya, Yiya..."


    The Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails seemed to dislike the Feng Shui fish very much, turning its head to swallow the person next to it, ignoring the one holding the fish.


    Seeing this scene, amotion erupted.


    "Whoosh~~~"


    Those with Feng Shui fish quickly took them out, while those without them, the Golden Core stage cultivators, turned and fled without a trace. The Nascent Soul stage cultivators, on the other hand, looked at the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails in horror, not knowing whether to run or stay.


    "Yiya, Yiya..."


    As the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails swallowed its tenth Nascent Soul stage expert, those without Feng Shui fish finally couldn''t bear it anymore and panicked, turning and fleeing.


    Zhongshan didn''t move because he noticed that the Red Luan Pink Lotus in his brow was still unchanged. Could it be that even in such a dangerous environment, he was unharmed?


    Most people here had a Feng Shui fish, but Zhongshan didn''t.


    "Sir, here''s a Feng Shui fish for you," Princess Qianyou immediately took out the Feng Shui fish she had taken from Xiao Qiushui and offered it to Zhongshan.


    "No need," Zhongshan shook his head strangely.


    Nian Youyou just stared at the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails, wondering what it was. She was very tempted to test its abilities, but she resisted the urge.


    Finally, the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails set its sights on the direction of Xieyan.


    "Yiya, Yiya..."


    As if it had seen the most delicious delicacy, the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails rushed towards Xieyan with great excitement.


    Chu Ba Moluo instantly stood in front of Xieyan, his giant sword flipping out, a sword energy imposingly rushing towards the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails.


    "Sunde!"


    The surroundings were illuminated by mes, and with one sh, it seemed like a huge sun was crashing down towards the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails.


    "Ha Woo~~~"


    The sun disappeared, and the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails looked as if it were enjoying itself.


    "Yiya, Yiya..."


    The Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails seemed extremely excited, as if it had tasted the most delicious delicacy. However, Chu Ba Moluo couldn''t find anything tough about.


    The sun disappeared, and the giant sword in Chu Ba Moluo''s hand also disappeared suddenly. It was even more terrifying than when he encountered Xuanyuan. This Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails had actually swallowed the weapon of an Emperor Realm expert in one bite?


    "Pfft~~~"


    The giant sword was eaten, and because of his focus on refining it, Chu Ba Moluo spat out a mouthful of blood.


    "Let''s go~~~"


    After spitting out blood, Chu Ba Moluo didn''t have time to feel any fear. He grabbed Xieyan and quickly shot off into the distance, disappearing in an instant.


    "Yiya, Yiya, Yiya..."


    The Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails eagerly pursued, as if it would have a better effect after eating Xieyan and Chu Ba Moluo. It was fast, incredibly fast, and disappeared in an instant before everyone''s eyes, leaving behind a group of strong cultivators staring dumbfoundedly. What was going on? Was this a dream?


    "p!" Ada pped a person nearby, snatching a Feng Shui fish, immediately refining it, and then handing it to Zhongshan.


    Although the Red Luan Pink Lotus on his brow didn''t turn blue, Zhongshan still seized the Feng Shui fish and slightly refined it.


    Everyone was stunned. Chu Ba Moluo, even those who didn''t know his cultivation level, knew he was powerful. That sword just now was definitely super strong. Those who knew him were even more horrified. Emperor Realm, such a powerful sword, not only did it fail to have any effect, but it was also swallowed whole by the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails.


    "Report, Your Highness, it''s bad! All four main city gates are sealed shut. Now, no one inside the city can get out!" The person who was previously dismissed by Prince Han Jue came running back in panic to report.

 Chapter 255:Eat, eat, eat

    <h4>Chapter 255:Eat, eat, eat</h4>


    "What?" Prince Han Jue''s eyes widened.


    All those who were frightened by the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails were in a panic, flying quickly towards the four city gates.


    The city gates were closed? What did that mean? Was the city isted, sealed off?


    Prince Han Jue nced in Zhongshan''s direction and immediately followed the official who had brought the news, quickly leaving to check the four city gates.


    "Sir, this Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails is too bizarre. Let''s go quickly," Ada said anxiously.


    "Go? Where to? Aren''t the city gates closed?" Nian Youyou immediately interjected.


    Zhongshan was puzzled now. Normally, the situation in Fengling City should be extremely dangerous, at least for himself, it would be definitely dangerous. With the emergence of the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails, he, a Golden Core stage cultivator, would be unable to handle it. But why was the Red Luan Pink Lotus not reacting at all? Could he be divinely protected?


    Looking at the Feng Shui fish in his hand, Zhongshan frowned slightly. "Why does the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails avoid Feng Shui fish?"


    "The Feng Shui fish itself doesn''t have much power. It should be because there are imprints of the original Feng Shui array contained within the Feng Shui fish. The suppression over thousands of years instinctively causes the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails to choose to avoid it, so it gave that person a chance to escape," Princess Qianyou analyzed.


    "Ada, A''er, be careful, try to avoid the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails as much as possible, and see what''s happening at the four corners of Fengling City. What has the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails done in Fengling City?" Zhongshan instructed.


    "What about you, sir?" Ada immediately asked.


    "We stay here for now. We''re not going anywhere," Zhongshan said.


    "Here?" Ada asked worriedly.


    "Don''t worry. Since the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails is averse to the Feng Shui fish, it must also be averse to the ce where it''s sealed. In Fengling City, this should be the safest ce," Zhongshan said with absolute certainty.


    "Understood," Ada immediately responded.


    Then, Ada and A''er quickly flew away.


    Nian Youyou smiled mischievously and followed Zhongshan, refusing to go anywhere else. Princess Qianyou naturally stayed behind as well. At least this way, Zhongshan would be safer.


    Zhongshan, apanied by the two women, headed straight for the terrace halfway up the mountain where he had previously sat with Xuanyuan.


    Sitting on a stone bench, Zhongshan looked up at the sky.


    In the distance, a man soared into the sky in fear, trying to fly out of the city.


    "Boom~~~"


    Suddenly, arge number of purple lightning bolts appeared out of thin air in the sky. The lightning bolts gathered rapidly like a huge and instantly converged on the man flying into the sky. Without any mercy, they turned the man who had intruded into the city into ashes.


    "World Annihtion Heavenly Thunder Formation?" Zhongshan muttered.


    The protective formation that guarded Fengling City now seemed to be like a death warrant, preventing anyone from leaving the city.


    Not only that, after one person was turned into ashes, countless threads of lightning suddenly appeared in the sky.


    Slowly appearing, in the high sky, from all directions, countless threads of lightning appeared. More and more of them. The lightning shed, and for a moment, the sky was filled with lightning, as if it were the end of the world.


    "This is not the World Annihtion Heavenly Thunder Formation, this is not it," Princess Qianyou immediately frowned.


    "Not it?" Zhongshan asked in confusion.


    "No, the World Annihtion Heavenly Thunder Formation doesn''t look like this, at least not when no one has intruded. It''s impossible for lightning to sh like this," Princess Qianyou said with absolute certainty.


    "Let''s wait for Ada and A''er toe back before we say anything," Zhongshan said calmly, sitting on a stone bench.


    Now, the situation could be said to be extremely critical, but the more critical it was, the calmer one had to be. It was necessary to stay calm.


    Zhongshan, Qianyou, and Nian Youyou patiently waited.


    Half an hourter, Ada returned first.


    "Sir, it''s not good. The four city gates are gone," Ada said immediately.


    "Gone?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yes, the city gates are gone. There are only city walls where the gates used to be. Many people have squeezed through, but there are no gates. How can we leave?" Ada said with great concern.


    "Many people have squeezed through? Squeezed? What does that mean?" Zhongshan asked in confusion.


    In the vast Fengling City, no matter how many people there were, they couldn''t possibly describe it as being "squeezed."


    "They''re really squeezing. Sir, there are many Tails in the city now. Those Tails that were originally dormant have alle to life, devouring people everywhere. Although they''re not as exaggerated as the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails, there are too many Tails in the city, far too many," Ada said anxiously.


    "How is the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails now?" Zhongshan asked with a furrowed brow.


    "Sir, the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails... the Initial Eight Demonic Robber died. He was eaten by the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails while trying to save Evil me," Ada said, his voice tinged with fear.


    Golden Core stage, the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails, what exactly was it? How could such a thing exist in the world? The Initial Eight Demonic Robber, who was at aparable strength, was eaten like this? Thinking back to the scene he had witnessed earlier, Ada was filled with fear.


    "Eaten?" Nian Youyou eximed in surprise.


    Nian Youyou couldn''t believe it. Even if the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails had eaten the Initial Eight Demonic Robber''s giant sword, she wasn''t so surprised. It could be seen that the Initial Eight Demonic Robber was careless at the time. But in the face of life and death, would the Initial Eight Demonic Robber still be so careless? Even under the Initial Eight Demonic Robber''s full power, he was still eaten by the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails. What kind of creature was the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails? Why wasn''t it recorded even in the Eternal Realm?


    "Sir," Princess Qianyou said with a hint of panic as she looked at Zhongshan.


    Golden Core stage, Golden Core stage, the strongest person in Fengling City was only at the Golden Core stage. Such a person was actually eaten by the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails? Then, wasn''t it invincible? And now, people couldn''t even leave.


    "Don''t panic!" Zhongshan said softly.


    Princess Qianyou and Nian Youyou were both starting to feel anxious because death was looming, but Zhongshan could remain calm because the Red Luan Pink Lotus on his brow hadn''t changed color, still as it was.


    "Sir, there''s another strange thing," Ada suddenly said.


    "What?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "I can''t feel the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails," Ada said.


    "You can''t feel it?" Zhongshan asked in confusion.


    "Yes, I can''t feel it either. Although my eyes can see it, when my divine sense passes through it, it feels like there''s nothing there, as if it''s one with the heavens and the earth," Nian Youyou suddenly recalled her previous sensation.


    "It''s impossible. If it were one with the heavens and the earth, we would have died just now. It''s impossible," Princess Qianyou said.


    Zhongshan narrowed his eyes, pondering continuously. "Ada, be careful, try again."


    "Yes," Ada immediately nodded. Then, he disappeared from the spot with a flicker.


    Not long after, Ada returned.


    "Sir," Ada said with a frightened expression as he handed over a memory crystal.


    In the memory crystal, Zhongshan saw a huge gold mine, a gold mountain, which was incredibly precious in the eyes of mortals and was only a kind of refining ore for cultivators.


    A gold mountain, a gold mountain that was four hundred meters high.


    In just a moment, it was eaten by the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails.


    Gone, the mountain, shown in the memory crystal, was quickly eaten by the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails and swallowed into its belly. The Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails remained the same size, but it wasn''t afraid to eat anything, even a mountain.


    "What... what is this?" Nian Youyou stared wide-eyed at the memory crystal.


    Eating mountains?


    It wasn''t over yet. In the memory crystal, the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails ''Yiya, Yiya'' cried out for a while, as if it had be thirsty after eating a mountain, and went to argeke, opening its small mouth.


    "Swish, swish."


    In an instant, the entireke was gulped down by the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails.


    A monster! A huge monster! A monstrous creature!


    Everyone looked on incredulously. What was this thing?


    At this moment, many of the Tails that had previously eaten people quickly ran to it, only to be eaten by the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails. For every one it swallowed, it spat out two more. The two that were spat out seemed slightly smaller, and then quickly ran in all directions, continuing to devour people.


    "Yiya, Yiya, Yiya..."


    The monstrous little creature gleefully cried out. Little did it know, its joyous cries sounded more like a death knell, instilling fear in the hearts of those near and far, causing them to turn and flee.


    The contents of the memory crystal ended, but the hearts of everyone present couldn''t calm down for a long time.


    The Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails, a peerless monster.


    "Ada, be careful, try again," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Yes," Ada immediately responded, then quickly turned and flew away.


    In the valley, only Zhongshan, Nian Youyou, and Princess Qianyou remained.


    Nian Youyou bit her lip, obviously feeling panicked for the first time in her life. Princess Qianyou had also been panicked before, but upon seeing Zhongshan''s calm face, her heart calmed down as well. Zhongshan''s calmness always had a way of infecting others, soothing Princess Qianyou''s panicked heart.


    Nian Youyou turned her head to look at Zhongshan, also showing a hint of confusion. Because besides furrowing his brow in thought, Zhongshan showed no signs of panic.


    Why was he so calm? He was just at the Golden Core stage, a mere Golden Core stage cultivator. Even if it wasn''t the Eight Extreme Heaven''s Tails, ordinary Tails in the city might be able to devour him now. Why was he still so calm?


    Zhongshan was very calm because the Red Luan Pink Lotus on his brow remained unchanged, showing no signs of distress. What was going on? In such a dangerous situation, why was the Red Luan Pink Lotus not reacting at all? Was it broken, or was it simply the safest option for him?


    Looking up at the increasing number of thunder threads in the sky, Zhongshan''s eyes also showed surprise and uncertainty. With more and more thunderbolts, people in the city were now not even considering breaking out from above, because it was even more dangerous up there. Once they went up, there was no room for discussion. Countless thunderbolts kept booming, turning the entire sky into a purple thunderous sky. As long as they went to the periphery, they would all be sted to dust.


    Outside the sealed Fengling City, a white mist enveloped everything. Those who had previously escaped because of Prince Han''s promation were now looking strangely at Fengling City, which was covered by the white mist. Fengling City was now covered by the white mist, making it impossible to see inside, and even the eerie mist could weaken divine senses and iste sound.


    Countless people outside the city were watching, waiting for the white mist to dissipate.


    Inside the city, Zhongshan sat on a stone bench, looking at the increasingly numerous thunderbolts in the sky and thinking about the devastated city. Suddenly, his brow furrowed, as if he had figured something out. He gently took out a pen and started writing on the stone table in front of him.


    As he wrote the words ''Fengling City,'' Nian Youyou asked, "What are you thinking?"


    "The Fengshui Formation hasn''t been broken at all. We''re still within the Fengshui Formation," Zhongshan said with absolute certainty.

 Chapter 256: The Divine Lightning of Nine Heavens

    <h4>Chapter 256: The Divine Lightning of Nine Heavens</h4>


    "The Feng Shui formation hasn''t been broken. We''re still inside the grand Feng Shui array," Zhong Shan said with absolute certainty.


    "How can that be? Then before... Uh, sir, do you mean that the entire Fengling City is actually a Feng Shui array, and we have been inside this formation all along? The previous formation was just a sub-array within it? The small array breaks, and therge array activates?" Princess Qianyou immediately grasped Zhong Shan''s spection.


    "Exactly. What a wonderfully intricate formation!" Zhong Shan eximed in admiration.


    "A city-wide formation?" Nian Youyou''s eyes also shed with surprise.


    They looked up at the sky, both women frowning.


    "Could it be the Nine Heavens Divine Lightning Extermination Array?" Princess Qianyou suddenly widened her eyes.


    Hearing her words, Nian Youyou also widened her eyes, staring at the sky with a mix of shock and disbelief.


    "What?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Sir, I think our greatest threat isn''t the Eight Extremes Skytail but the formation in the sky," Princess Qianyou said worriedly.


    "Is it really the Nine Heavens Divine Lightning Extermination Array?" Nian Youyou, unable to believe it, dashed away as if to investigate the truth elsewhere.


    "What kind of formation is that?" Zhong Shan asked in confusion.


    "Sir, this is a formation specifically designed for the Eight Extremes Skytail. The person who set up this formation must be an exceptional master, both a top expert and a Feng Shui grandmaster. Setting up this formation is incredibly difficult. It''s not just aligned with the surrounding mountains and natural principles; it also invokes heavenly mandates. The countless lightning bolts in the sky are a response to the immense evil emanating from the Eight Extremes Skytail. The more evil it creates, the more lightning gathers. Once it reaches a certain threshold, the lightning serves as a mere trigger to draw down the divine lightning from the stars,pletely annihting the Eight Extremes Skytail. However, when the Nine Heavens Divine Lightning strikes, the entire city will be obliterated," Princess Qianyou exined with growing concern.


    "The more evil it creates, the more lightning gathers? That means the person who established the Fengling formation never intended for the people inside the city to escape. They wanted the Eight Extremes Skytail tomit more atrocities, devouring more people, to ensure itsplete annihtion. What a ruthless scheme! This Feng Shui master intended to sacrifice the entire city to entomb the Eight Extremes Skytail?" Zhong Shan said in a grave tone.


    "Yes, that Feng Shui master might have been driven to desperation. The Eight Extremes Skytail is so terrifying that if it escapes the city, wouldn''t the entire world fall into chaos? He used the lives of everyone in the city to safeguard the peace of the world. But still..." Princess Qianyou said, frowning.


    Indeed, using the lives of everyone in the city to ensure world peace would umte great virtue for the Feng Shui master, turning his act into a significant deed for the greater good. But then, what about their own situation inside the city?


    "Logically, if the person who created this array decided to sacrifice the city, why did the Cold Absolute Crown Prince get wind of it and know about the Eight Extremes Skytail?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "Sir, are you suggesting that the person who set up the formation thousands of years ago decided to sacrifice the city''s inhabitants, but over time, his descendants, unable to bear the thought of innocent lives being lost, leaked the information to the Cold Absolute Crown Prince?" Princess Qianyou spected.


    "Who knows? But right now, our biggest threats are twofold: the Eight Extremes Skytail and the impending ''Nine Heavens Divine Lightning,''" Zhong Shan said with a furrowed brow.


    Zhong Shan''s frown was not just due to the two major threats but also because the red lotus mark on his forehead showed no reaction. Why? Why did the red lotus mark show no signs despite the perilous situation?


    "It''s truly the Nine Heavens Divine Lightning Extermination Array. This... this will obliterate everyone in the city?" Nian Youyou returned with a tightly furrowed brow, her eyes filled with uncertainty and disbelief, and then nced at Zhong Shan.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan calmly took out a tea set, used his magic to heat the tea, and poured a cup for each of the two women and himself, drinking with utmostposure.


    Nian Youyou''s eyes widened as she looked at Zhong Shan. How could he be so calm? Had he been scared silly?


    "Princess, have some tea," Zhong Shan said.


    Seeing Zhong Shan soposed, Princess Qianyou seemed to be influenced by his calm demeanor. She gradually began to forget about the two massive threats looming over them. She looked at Zhong Shan somewhat absentmindedly, only snapping back to reality when Zhong Shan handed her a cup of tea. Blushing, she responded, "Alright!"


    Nian Youyou, however, couldn''t calm down. This was a situation where death seemed certain! How could they have the leisure to drink tea at a time like this?


    At that moment, Ah Da flew back from afar!


    "Sir, there are more and more Tianwei in the city, and their strength is also increasing," Ah Da said worriedly.


    "Oh? What''s the situation in the city now?" Zhong Shan handed Ah Da a cup of tea to help him steady his nerves.


    Looking at the cup of tea Zhong Shan handed him, Ah Da''s initial worry suddenly seemed absurd. Drinking tea at a time like this? But since it was offered by Zhong Shan, Ah Da took the cup and drank.


    "Currently, the city has split into several groups. People are banding together to fend off the increasing number of Tianwei. The strongest group is led by the Cold Absolute Crown Prince,manding an army of 300,000. Many other groups have joined forces with him, but the Tianwei are too numerous and increasingly powerful. Each wave of Tianwei attacks results in countless deaths and injuries," Ah Da exined.


    "Is it very grim?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Extremely grim. Any slight mistake and people are devoured by the Tianwei. Right now, the Cold Absolute Crown Prince is leading the army of 300,000 to encircle the Eight Extremes Skytail. Everyone believes that as long as the Eight Extremes Skytail is killed, they will be safe," Ah Da said.


    "Mm." Zhong Shan nodded, somewhat agreeing with the people''s perspective.


    But could the Eight Extremes Skytail really be killed that easily?


    "Sir, I''ll go take another look," Ah Da said.


    "Mm." Zhong Shan nodded gently.


    Ah Da eagerly flew away.


    Zhong Shan, however, remained calmly drinking his tea. Why was he unharmed? What was the reason? Zhong Shan couldn''t figure it out. The future was truly unpredictable!


    After Ah Da left, Ah Er returned as well.


    When Ah Er arrived, there was a hint of cold sweat on his forehead, and his eyes were filled with terror.


    "What happened?" Zhong Shan handed him a cup of tea as well.


    With the same strange expression as Ah Da, Ah Er drank the tea and said, "Sir, the Eight Extremes Skytail has ovee its psychological barrier!"


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan asked in confusion.


    "It just ate a Feng Shui fish!" Ah Er said.


    Hearing this, Nian Youyou frowned and said, "So, Feng Shui fish are no longer effective against it?"


    "Yes, now there''s thick fog rising throughout Fengling City. I didn''t dare to get too close. The Eight Extremes Skytail has started eating floating inds. The fifty floating inds to the east were all devoured by the time I left. The Eight Extremes Skytail seems to have no limits. It eats everything, much like the mythical Taotie, but even more exaggerated. It devours everything: golden mountains,rgekes, floating inds? How could it eat these things?" Ah Er said, deeply agitated.


    "Ah Er, your mind is in turmoil. You shouldn''t go back. Sit down and have some tea," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Ah Er opened his mouth, then gently nodded. He moved a stone stool over and sat by the stone table, drinking tea with a heart full of doubt and anxiety.


    He waited patiently with Zhong Shan. They discussed the situation in the city intermittently, but Zhong Shan remained still throughout.


    Ah Er grew increasingly anxious, his frustration evident. Several times he opened his mouth to speak, but then hesitated.


    "Sir, are we really just going to sit here?" Ah Er finally couldn''t hold back any longer.


    "What Can You Do?" Zhong Shan Said.


    "You can''t just sit here waiting for death," Ah Er said anxiously. "The lightning in the sky is growing more intense, covering every inch. If this continues, we''re doomed!"


    "I''m not just sitting here waiting to die. Don''t worry; as long as we''re here, we''ll be safe," Zhong Shan assured him.


    "But��" Ah Er started.


    "Trust me. I''ve got this," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Understood!" Ah Er calmed down considerably.


    Nian Youyou looked at Zhong Shan with astonishment. He said, "I''ve got this"? How could a mere Golden Core stage cultivator make such a bold im? Yet Ah Er believed him? And not just Ah Er��Princess Qianyou, too, had been trusting Zhong Shan and remained calm. How was this possible? Zhong Shan was only at the Golden Core stage. Why did they all have such faith in him? Was Zhong Shan really that remarkable?


    In a group, people are easily influenced by those around them. In a crowd filled with panic, emotions run high. But in a calm environment, even the most urgent concerns can be soothed.


    Now, the same was happening here. Princess Qianyou and Ah Er had already calmed down, and Zhong Shan remained incrediblyposed from the beginning. Even Nian Youyou, who had been extremely anxious, found herself bing much more at ease.


    "Sir, sir, something''s wrong!" came Ah Da''s urgent shout from a distance.


    Everyone turned to see Ah Da approaching rapidly.


    "Sir, we have to leave now! Quickly!" Ah Da urged, panic evident in his voice.


    "What''s going on? Speak slowly," Zhong Shan said.


    "We don''t have time. We need to get out of here," Ah Da said, urgency in every word.


    "It''s fine. Just tell me what''s happening," Zhong Shan shook his head, refusing to leave.


    "The Cold Absolute Crown Prince, with his 300,000-strong army and numerous cultivators, found the Eight Extremes Skytail, but they lost. They werepletely defeated. The Eight Extremes Skytail opened its mouth and devoured 5,000 soldiers in one gulp, and digested them instantly. Then it took another breath and ate 8,000 more soldiers. The Soul-Piercing Arrows were useless; all 100,000 arrows were ineffective. It ate them all, and now the entire city is in chaos, filled with devouring Tianwei. The remaining army is in full retreat, fleeing in panic. The Cold Absolute Crown Prince''s forces are defeated, and they''re heading this way," Ah Da exined in a fluster.


    "They''reing this way?" Nian Youyou asked urgently.


    "Yes, and the Eight Extremes Skytail is chasing him relentlessly. Despite being a Royal Realm expert, the Cold Absolute Crown Prince is no match for the Eight Extremes Skytail. The Skytail ising straight for us, determined to devour him," Ah Da said, panic gripping him.


    Hearing Ah Da''s ount, Ah Er grew tense as well. Nian Youyou''s expression flickered with uncertainty. She looked at Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou. Princess Qianyou nced at Zhong Shan, seeming to have unwavering confidence in him.


    Zhong Shan, however, just raised an eyebrow and gently shook his head.

 Chapter 257: The Grand Shadow Seal of Heaven and Earth

    <h4>Chapter 257: The Grand Shadow Seal of Heaven and Earth</h4>


    The Eight Extremes Skytail was heading straight towards them. Logic dictated that they should run, but Zhong Shan couldn''t move.


    Zhong Shan had performed the most thorough calctions and eliminations. If it wasn''t him, if it were anyone else, they would surely die. Fengling City itself was a self-destructive grand array, drawing down the Nine Heavens Divine Lightning. The uing Nine Heavens Divine Lightning would likely be even more terrifying.


    Was there something wrong with the Red Luan Pink Lotus? If there was, Zhong Shan was definitely doomed. Not only was the Eight Extremes Skytail intent on devouring the entire city, but the impending Nine Heavens Divine Lightning would be inescapable. So he would be dead for sure. Running away would only be a temporary reprieve; death woulde eventually.


    Now, Zhong Shan could only hope that the Red Luan Pink Lotus was still functioning properly, and he felt it was indeed fine. This meant he would absolutelye out of this unscathed. How would he remain safe?


    If he were to be safe, then the Eight Extremes Skytail would certainly encounter some significant trouble��either it would die or undergo a drastic change in behavior.


    So what was the difference between running and staying? Sooner orter, he would have to confront the Eight Extremes Skytail. Should he wait until the Nine Heavens Divine Lightning descended? That wouldn''t work either; the oue would be uncertain then. If he was safe facing the Eight Extremes Skytail now, he might as well see what was special about his situation that allowed him to avert danger.


    Zhong Shan remainedpletely still, not even adjusting a loose button on his clothing. He had to maintain the current state of absolute safety. Feng Shui was a delicate bnce, and any slight change, like tightening a button, might alter the situation that was keeping him safe. Even though it might sound exaggerated, Zhong Shan decided to keep things as they were. If the unknown could save him, then let it remain unknown.


    "Yiya, yiya, yiya..."


    From a considerable distance, Zhong Shan could already hear the Eight Extremes Skytail''s cute yet ominous cries as it approached. The Skytail had ovee its psychological barrier and was no longer afraid of the Feng Shui fish or the ce that once sealed it.


    The Cold Absolute Crown Prince appeared in a dire state, with his clothes tattered in ces and bloodstains covering his body like a second skin, testifying to the brutal battle he had just survived. In his desperate escape, he had lost track of his aides, the Left and Right Masters. He had no time to care about their fates; he was fighting for his own survival.


    This Eight Extremes Skytail was a monstrous fiend that could devour anything. No poison, no matter how ancient, affected it. Weapons of immense destructive power, such as the 100,000 Soul-Piercing Arrows, were all swallowed without a trace. It could consume anything, from lethal toxins to formidable artifacts. Engaging it inbat was futile, as the fate of the first demon lord demonstrated; even Royal Realm experts were helpless against its voracious maw.


    The Eight Extremes Skytail was getting closer to the Cold Absolute Crown Prince, who had hoped that reaching the canyon where the Skytail had been sealed might instill some fear in the beast. But the Skytail now feared nothing, charging forward with reckless abandon.


    "Yiya, yiya..." it cried out excitedly, never relenting in its pursuit of the prince, eager to devour him.


    The Cold Absolute Crown Prince was on the brink of despair when he spotted Zhong Shan, Princess Qianyou, Nian Youyou, Ah Da, and Ah Er on a mid-mountain tform. Zhong Shan stepped forward, calmly and resolutely, facing the approaching Eight Extremes Skytail, while the others watched from below.


    Seeing this, the Cold Absolute Crown Prince felt a glimmer of hope.


    He could divert disaster!


    Three Royal Realm experts below were surely a more tempting target than just himself.


    "Whoosh!"


    The Cold Absolute Crown Prince, under the furious gaze of the others, veered off andnded near Zhong Shan. The Eight Extremes Skytail followed closely, diving down towards them.


    The Cold Absolute Crown Prince made a swift maneuver, bypassing everyone and attempting to escape in another direction. He seeded in redirecting the disaster��luring the Eight Extremes Skytail''s attention away from himself and onto Zhong Shan and his group. The Skytail''s eyes gleamed with unprecedented brightness as it shifted its focus from the prince to Zhong Shan and the three Royal Realm experts, Nian Youyou, Ah Da, and Ah Er.


    "Yiya, yiya, yiya," the Skytail chirped excitedly as it dove towards them.


    The Cold Absolute Crown Prince''s sessful redirection incited everyone''s anger. They red at him furiously, but there was little they could do. With no other choice, they turned their attention to the Eight Extremes Skytail, filled with fear and wanting to flee in all directions. Yet, no one moved. Zhong Shan didn''t run, so Princess Qianyou stayed, and as long as she stayed, Ah Da and Ah Er wouldn''t leave either. The four remained in ce, and Nian Youyou, despite her worry, stopped and anxiously watched the approaching Skytail.


    The Eight Extremes Skytail, in its gleeful descent, opened its mouth, generating a powerful suction force that seemed capable of drawing all five people from the mountainside into its maw. However, Zhong Shan smiled, for he had finally realized why he could avert this danger.


    It was because he possessed a crucial treasure��a treasure he had nearly forgotten about!


    The ck Jade Talisman!


    As the Eight Extremes Skytail opened its mouth, the ck Jade Talisman finally reacted for the first time. Amidst everyone''s panic, as they struggled against the suction force and tried to escape, Zhong Shan remained unmoved because he no longer felt any fear. The ck Jade Talisman, sensing the Skytail''s suction, suddenly emitted a shadowy figure from its surface.


    The figure of the ck Jade Talisman began to growrger andrger, enveloping Zhong Shan''s body in an instant, and then expanding exponentially.


    In a sh, the shadow grew to an astronomical size, transforming into a colossal ck Jade Talisman.


    A massive ck Jade Talisman suddenly appeared, and after expanding a billion-fold, it exploded into a peculiar ck light that radiated in all directions.


    "Hummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm..."


    Zhong Shan felt a slight tremor, and in his mind''s eye, the ck Jade Talisman in his Purple Pce vibrated gently, bringing him a sense of rity as if he had awakened from a dream. At that moment of awakening, Zhong Shan''s mouth fell open in utter disbelief.


    Was this really happening? Was it even possible?


    Zhong Shan could hardly believe his eyes orprehend the enormity of what he was witnessing, all caused by the ck Jade Talisman. Everywhere touched by the ck light was now adorned with talismans.


    On the foreheads of Princess Qianyou, Ah Da, Ah Er, and Nian Youyou, there appeared semi-real, semi-illusory talismans like those used to ward off evil spirits. Each of them had one affixed to their foreheads, and they stood utterly motionless, eyes wide open.


    On the ground below, at intervals, there were talismans as well, and in the distance, the Cold Absolute Crown Prince, who had been fleeing, now had a simr talisman on his forehead, frozen in mid-air, unable to move.


    Directly in front of Zhong Shan, the Eight Extremes Skytail, with its mouth still open wide, also had a talisman affixed to its head. It, too, was immobilized.


    But what truly shocked Zhong Shan wasn''t this sight; it was what he saw in the sky.


    The once thunderous heavens, filled with countless purple lightning bolts and the cacophony of booming thunder, now fell silent. The oppressive noise had disappearedpletely.


    In the sky, amidst the purple lightning, a gigantic, shadowy talisman loomed, sealing the very lightning itself. The colossal talisman had immobilized the sky, stopping the lightning in its tracks.


    It seemed as if the entire world hade to a standstill.


    Zhong Shan felt like the only living being, with everything else frozen in ce by a single talisman''s automatic reaction.


    Zhongshan stood in awe, mouth agape, as he gently ascended into the air. Hovering high above the city, he noticed that the dense fog enveloping it seemed to be influenced by the talisman, gradually thinning and dissipating. It appeared to be sealed off, and throughout the city, countless individuals were frozen in ce, immobilized by a single talisman. Even numerous celestial foxes, known as Tianwei, were subdued by the talisman''s power.


    Was he the only one in the entire Fengling City left unscathed?


    Descending back to the terrace, Zhongshan examined the spectral talisman shadow on Princess Qianyou''s face. Although she was immobilized, the shadow was slowly fading.


    Could this mean the seal has a time limit?


    The thought struck Zhongshan with urgency. He quickly turned his attention to the eight-tailed Tianwei. Despite its endearing appearance, he had to deal with it before the seal broke. If it survived, he and everyone in the city would surely perish.


    How could he resolve this?


    Killing it? No, that wasn''t the answer!


    Suddenly, Zhongshan''s eyes sparkled with an unusual gleam as a wild idea took root in his mind.


    Gently, he lifted the eight-tailed Tianwei and flew down into a nearby valley. He ced the creature on the ground and took a deep breath. His eyes shone with a mix of madness and anticipation.


    From within his sleeve, Zhongshan produced an item, a treasure he had been prepared to forsake��<strong>the Pure World Snow Lotus</strong>.


    Although incredibly rare, there were still three such lotuses in existence. The eight-tailed Tianwei, however, was unique and immensely powerful.


    Zhongshan''s n involved cultivating, breaking through to the sixth level of the Golden Core stage, and condensing his spiritual consciousness in the Niwan Pce. The Pure World Snow Lotus was known for purifying extraordinary heavenly materials and treasures, essential for creating a root spiritual consciousness.


    Typically, the Pure World Snow Lotus was used to purify nts or spiritual treasures, but never a living creature. The reason being, it was believed to be impossible.


    Yet now, with the eight-tailed Tianwei sealed, Zhongshan was determined to attempt the impossible: to purify the Tianwei and convert it into his root spiritual consciousness. Even if he failed, he would have no regrets.


    Sitting cross-legged, he followed the method taught by Princess Qianyou and gently activated the Pure World Snow Lotus.


    The lotus expanded rapidly, its tform growing to a width of three zhang in an instant.


    Cradling the eight-tailed Tianwei, Zhongshan gently sat upon the lotus tform.


    Seated within the lotus, he followed Princess Qianyou''s method, gradually urging the lotus to emit a faint white glow. Slowly, the petals of the lotus began to close around him.


    The petals closed gradually, forming a lotus bud that started to rotate slowly.


    The lotus bud spun for an entire day and night. Throughout the city, people remained sealed in ce. As the lotus bud ceased its rotation, its initial white glow started to fade. The outermostyer of petals seemed to be losing moisture, gradually withering and turning yellow.


    An hourter, with a soft "crack," the outermost petal fell to the ground, followed by the second and third petals. The Pure World Snow Lotus, one of only three in existence, was slowly withering, its spiritual essence seemingly being drained away.

 Chapter 258: The Beginning of Shattering Delusion

    <h4>Chapter 258: The Beginning of Shattering Delusion</h4>


    The petals of the Pure World Snow Lotus withered one by one, and as the sixth petal fell, Zhongshan''s voice suddenly echoed from within.


    "In my Niwan Pce, do you still think you can seize control of my consciousness?"


    ...


    "You have already lost. You''ve been refined by the Pure World Snow Lotus. No matter how strong or terrifying you once were, now you''re just a defeated foe. You possess great power, a formidable mind, but your intelligence is iplete. Ultimately, you are destined to serve me."


    ...


    "Resist? You can''t resist. The Niwan World is my domain. Here, you can only be gradually refined by me."


    ...


    "Want to be my pet, to submit to me? Ha! But I prefer you to be my root spiritual consciousness. Submission is not enough; you must belong to me."


    ...


    "Retain your consciousness as my root spiritual consciousness? Haha, how could my body house two minds? Don''t even think about it."


    ...


    "Fish die and the breaks? You know that phrase? If you destroy your consciousness, you''ll revert to your weakest form, your original form. And what then? Break if you must. All I desire are your attributes, those heaven-defying attributes. Even if your power bes weak, it doesn''t matter. Given time, I will restore it."


    ...


    "Boom!"


    A muffled explosion sounded from within the Pure World Snow Lotus.


    "Pfft!" A gush of blood was heard spurting out.


    "You''d rather die than let me have your power? Heh!" Zhongshan''s voice, slightly tinged with excitement, came from inside.


    At thest moment, the Pure World Snow Lotus withered madly. In an instant, it shriveled into a dry husk, even the once lush lotus tform shrinking and revealing Zhongshan at its center.


    Zhongshan sat cross-legged, eyes slightly closed, a hint of a triumphant smile ying on his lips. That was close. He had almost lost, but in the end, he had driven the eight-tailed Tianwei to utter desperation, leading to its final, desperate "fish die and the breaks" act. Had the Tianwei held on a little longer, the current upant of Zhongshan''s body might have been someone else entirely.


    Zhongshan continued to regte his breathing, immersing his mind in his Niwan Pce, located at the back of his head��a ce akin to a Purple Mansion.


    The Purple Mansion stored mana; the Niwan Pce stored spiritual consciousness.


    This ce seemed like an enclosed space, connected to Zhongshan''s essence only by a mysterious link. Below, the eight-tailed Tianwei had transformed into something like a blossoming flower.


    The Tianwei had be very small, devoid of consciousness, its eight differently colored fox tails swaying gently. Surrounding the Tianwei was a hazy, almost transparent substance, both ethereal and real. This was Zhongshan''s spiritual consciousness, which he had concentrated into a root spiritual consciousness.


    Root Spiritual Consciousness: The eight-tailed Tianwei. As the root of his spiritual consciousness, it maintained this form, but Zhongshan''s spiritual consciousness was still very weak. It could only extend outside his body to explore within a one-zhang radius.


    For Zhongshan, however, this was sufficient. Within one zhang of his body, he could perceive everything clearly without the need for his eyes.


    More importantly, he had now reached the sixth level of the Golden Core stage.


    He was one step closer to the Nascent Soul stage and much nearer to the day he could retrieve Ling''er.


    Zhongshan opened his eyes slightly, a fleeting gleam of light passing through them before fading away.


    He stood up gently, and the Pure World Snow Lotus beneath him had withered into a pile of dust, which he blew away with a wave of his hand.


    The Pure World Snow Lotus? It no longer existed. But now he had gained an eight-tailed Tianwei root spiritual consciousness.


    In its final moments, the Tianwei, consumed by spite, had extinguished all consciousness, destroyed all its power, reverting to its most primal state. Even in death, it left no memory for humans to im.


    As the eight-tailed Tianwei was about to extinguish itself, Zhongshan gleaned a bit of insight.


    This eight-tailed Tianwei was a tragic figure as well. It seemed as though it didn''t belong in this world. Just as it descended, it was sealed away, and after thousands of years of confinement, it emerged only to encounter Zhongshan, a monstrous being. It had spent millennia without experiencing any good days.


    But Zhongshan didn''t concern himself with the details. There was no need to dwell on distant matters beyond his reach. Instead, he focused on the present, striving to cultivate his current stage. That was the most fundamental thing.


    However, as thest surge of pure energy infused his body from the Pure World Snow Lotus, it seemed to ignite the Red Phoenix Pink Lotus at his brow.


    Both were lotuses, and as a result, the Red Phoenix Pink Lotus doubled in size. The Red Phoenix Scripture, sixth stage!


    The Red Phoenix Scripture, fifth stage, showed both fortune and misfortune.


    The Red Phoenix Scripture, sixth stage, marked the beginning of illusion breaking.


    The sixth stage, the beginning of illusion breaking? Zhongshan didn''t check now; instead, he quickly rose to his feet. The most important thing now was to leave the city. Big changes wereing.


    As the eight-tailed Tianwei perished, countless thunderbolts in the sky began to recede slowly. They diminished more and more until there were hardly any left.


    Seeing this, Zhongshan swiftly flew up to the terrace halfway up the mountain, where Princess Qianyou and the others stood.


    At that moment, as the thunderbolts vanished from the sky, the spectral talisman that had sealed them suddenly trembled and then vanished.


    As if in a chain reaction, at the moment one talisman disappeared, all the spectral talisman images in the city trembled and disappeared together.


    In the sky, the Cold Extremity Prince''s body sank slightly, but he quickly stabilized himself and, with a hint of confusion, hastily turned and flew away.


    Before Zhongshan, Ada, A''er, and Nian Youyou all wore expressions of utter astonishment, preparing to confront the eight-tailed Tianwei. But then...


    Ada, A''er, and Nian Youyou widened their eyes, mouths hanging open in disbelief. The eight-tailed Tianwei was gone?


    In the blink of an eye��no, not even that, it had simply vanished? Where was the eight-tailed Tianwei?


    The three of them were incredulous. They searched around, but before Princess Qianyou, the eight-tailed Tianwei had suddenly been reced by Zhongshan. Its memory of lunging at him still fresh, yet now, before them stood their master. Perhaps, perhaps dying alongside their master wasn''t a bad ending after all.


    "Princess, let''s leave the city quickly!" Zhongshan smiled.


    "Huh?" Princess Qianyou was momentarily stunned, snapping out of her sorrowful reverie. She only now realized that the eight-tailed Tianwei was gone. Disappeared?


    Nian Youyou searched for a moment then immediately stared at Zhongshan.


    The eight-tailed Tianwei was gone? But Zhongshan appeared unharmed. Did he know what happened?


    "What''s going on? What just happened?" Nian Youyou immediately asked Zhongshan.


    "Let''s go!" Zhongshan said.


    Ada quickly regained his senses and immediately flew up, carrying everyone with him. Following Zhongshan''s lead, they flew toward the eastern gate.


    The thick fog had dissipated, and all the Tianwei in the city had once again turned into harmless nts. But those who had been unsealed still panicked and fled at the sight of the flower-like Tianwei.


    "The city gates are open! The city gates are open!" A distant voice rang out with excitement.


    "Whoosh..."


    Hearing the shouts, countless people sprinted towards the city gates, filled with terror, not wanting to stay for another moment, not wanting to linger in this nightmare city any longer.


    Outside the city, as the white fog slowly dispersed, the first person flew out in a panic from within. Seeing this hastily escaping figure, those waiting outside were stunned because many recognized him as a powerful Yuan Ying stage cultivator. But what was going on with him now? What expression was that? Tears?


    No, not just him. Behind him, arge number of cultivators surged out of the Sealed Spirit City like a swarm of locusts, many of them shedding tears of excitement as if they had been reborn.


    Tearful escape. It was indeed a sight to behold as tens of thousands of people wept together.


    Zhongshan and his group followed the tide and exited the city gates.


    "Zhongshan, what about the eight-tailed Tianwei?" Nian Youyou asked urgently.


    All eyes turned to Zhongshan.


    "I don''t know. Let''s go!" Zhongshan replied.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, everyone fell silent. Go? But how?


    Knowing Zhongshan didn''t want to discuss it further, no one pressed him for more answers.


    But Nian Youyou couldn''t shake off her unease. Her eyes turned and she said, "Zhongshan, why don''t youe with me? I''ll take you to the Eternal Life Realm!"


    "Go with you? I might end up being sold by you and not even realize it." Zhongshan shook his head and chuckled.


    "Hmph, suit yourself. But don''t forget your promise. I''ll be back next time, and then I''ll im what''s mine!" With a stomp, Nian Youyou soared into the sky. Her tone suddenly changed, sounding like a stubborn young wife as she turned to fly away.


    Seeing Nian Youyou leave, Zhongshan shook his head with a smile. Nian Youyou''s temperament was too unpredictable.


    "Take care!" Zhongshan replied.


    Seeing Zhongshan didn''t try to stop her, Nian Youyou shot him a re before flying away for real.


    "Sir, where are we going now?" Ada asked.


    "Back to the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty!" Zhongshan replied solemnly.


    "Yes, sir," Ada immediately responded, continuing to urge the white clouds forward.


    Meanwhile, Princess Qianyou stared in the direction Nian Youyou had flown off to, her brows furrowed. What was she thinking?


    Everyone had escaped from the Sealed Spirit City, presumably all the living ones had made it out. But no one dared to enter again, not even the Cold Extremity Prince. Just the thought of the Sealed Spirit City sent shivers down his spine.


    Only those who hadn''t been inside the city beforehand dared to enter, but upon doing so, they found that all the Tianwei flowers inside had withered and died. This was no man-eating demon flower; it was just an ordinary Tianwei. But the people who came out were all terrified, and there was no choice but to believe them. Furthermore, the disappearance of numerous mines, the drying up of the bigke, the disappearance of floating inds��all these continuously proved that what those people said was true.


    Where was the eight-tailed Tianwei? Perhaps it would remain a mystery, known to none.


    Only the Cold Extremity Prince returned, deeply frustrated. And the Sealed Spirit City remained abandoned, its previous bustling atmosphere gone. Because inside, there circted a terrifying legend: the City of Nightmares!

 Chapter 259: Qitian Marquis

    <h4>Chapter 259: Qitian Marquis</h4>


    Three monthster, in a valley.


    In front of Xie Yan stood a tombstone engraved with the words "Grave of the Eighth."


    This was a tomb Xie Yan had prepared for the Eighth Moro.


    It had been three months since the incident with the Eight-tailed Tianwei in the Sealed Spirit City, and Xie Yan had only now erected a tombstone for the Eighth.


    Looking at the tombstone, Xie Yan furrowed his brows slightly. "Eighth, rest in peace. You can be assured that I''ll take care of things here. With you gone, I still have Princess Qianyou."


    With that, Xie Yan turned and flew up to the mountain peak, no longer ncing at the tombstone but instead cing his right index finger on his forehead, quietly casting a spell.


    Meanwhile, near the original Cangyun Sect, in a manor, Xiao Qiushui''s eyes suddenly emitted a faint red light. She gently pushed open the door and, with a step, swiftly flew in a certain direction��


    Six more months passed. Outside the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, by a massive ind sea.


    Princess Qianyou, dressed as a young woman, arrived with Ah Er from a distance, while Ah Da stood on a mountain peak. Seeing Princess Qianyou and Ah Er, he immediately bowed slightly. "Princess."


    Princess Qianyounded on the mountain peak and looked out at the distant sea. "Has Sir note up yet?"


    "Not yet. Sir has been practicing underwater all this time. But it should be close to the date he mentioned," Ah Da replied.


    "Mm." Princess Qianyou nodded patiently, waiting.


    At the bottom of this sea, on a boulder, Zhongshan still sat with closed eyes, not releasing his protective aura, simply soaking his body in the seawater.


    The Sixth Level of the Vermillion Phoenix Scripture! The beginning of dispelling illusions!


    What did it mean to dispel illusions? Zhongshan had already figured it out over these days.


    It was an incredibly terrifying ability. Gathering the mental power of the Vermillion Phoenix Flower, it had such a great effect.


    When he opened his eyes, Zhongshan saw a fragmented world.


    It was like a piece of ss shattered by a strong impact, producing a spiderweb-like crack.


    These were the rules, the rules of heaven and earth.


    When Zhongshan saw this scene, he was speechless with shock. However, what he saw was only a part of it. In Zhongshan''s eyes, these rules of heaven and earth appeared and disappeared intermittently. Some disappeared while others appeared, and the ones that disappeared earlier also reappeared to some extent.


    In short, there were too many rules of heaven and earth. Thanks to the Sixth Level of the Vermillion Phoenix Scripture, Zhongshan had seen these rules countless years ahead of the peerless experts, but he could only see them vaguely, like someone with poor eyesight, only able to see blurry shapes. Nevertheless, even this vague view brought Zhongshan immense convenience.


    From the seabed, looking at the vast sea, the previously arduous task of searching for the patterns and weaknesses in the seawater had be much easier.


    Turning his hand, Zhongshan took out the "Nightmare" and exerted all his strength, swinging it fiercely upwards.


    Sky-slicing Wave!


    Sky-slicing Wave!


    Zhongshan swung two consecutive shes, creating two huge rifts that tore towards the sea surface. The seawater hurriedly avoided these rifts.


    <i>Boom, boom</i>


    Gigantic waves rose from the sea, spreading within a hundred-mile radius.


    The power of the Yuan Ying stage.


    Although not considered strong, for Zhongshan now, it was a tremendous breakthrough. He could now consecutively unleash such formidable power, and all this without even employing the <strong>Heavenly Demon Essence Body</strong>.


    Satisfied, Zhongshan smiled faintly as his mental power slowly retreated from his eyes back to his brow. He noticed that the consumption of the Vermillion Phoenix Flower''s power by observing the rules of heaven and earth was significant. In just a short time, the Vermillion Phoenix Flower had dimmed considerably.


    However, it didn''t matter. It wouldn''t take long to recover.


    With a satisfied smile, Zhongshan slowly charged towards the surface of the sea.


    The Mo Yu talisman in the Purple Mansion had been studied again, but it still remained lifeless, unable to be deciphered. As for his divine consciousness, it had indeed grown rapidly due to the Eight-tailed Tianwei. In just a few months, its range had expanded from covering a yard around him to ten yards.


    <i>Bang!</i> Zhongshan burst out of the water.


    He flew towards a distant mountain peak.


    "Sir, is it stable now?" Princess Qianyou asked immediately.


    "The Sixth Level of the Golden Core Stage, a stroke of luck," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Sir, some news just came in. It seems we need to return to the capital," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Oh? What news?" Zhongshan activated his mana slightly, evaporating all the water from his body.


    "Firstly, Gu Lin has returned to the capital, bringing back the Wan Cheng Treasure Book, and has been ennobled," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Hmm?" Zhongshan was puzzled.


    "Gu Lin has recovered!" Princess Qianyou said.


    "Recovered? Recovered what?" Zhongshan asked curiously.


    "As I told you before, his main consciousness was in the Mud Pill Pce,peting for control with a Sovereign Realm expert. Only a small part of him was outside," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Hmm," Zhongshan frowned in thought.


    "If he hadn''t recovered, King Daxuan wouldn''t have ennobled him. He himself said that he wouldn''t ept ennoblement without defeating the Sovereign Realm expert. Now that he''s been ennobled, it means the past him has returned. Gu Lin, the most favored son of King Daxuan, has returned," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    Zhongshan also furrowed his brows.


    "Gu Lin has been ennobled as the ''Qitian Marquis''. He temporarily holds the title of Heaven and Earth Warden, with a temporary status," Princess Qianyou said.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan nodded. Gu Lin had always harbored ill feelings towards him. He wondered what attitude Gu Lin would have towards him now that he had regained his intelligence. If it remained the same as before, it would be troublesome.


    "And, His Majesty has issued a decree for me to return to the capital early," Princess Qianyou said.


    "A decree?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows.


    "Yes, because, in eight months, our Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty will hold the once-in-sixty-years grand event," Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan was puzzled.


    "The Imperial Examinations!" Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "The Imperial Examinations?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows.


    "Yes, sir. You can participate in the Imperial Examinations. They only happen once every sixty years. Once you be the top schr, you''ll at least hold a temporary status," Princess Qianyou said.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan smiled wryly. "I''ve never taken the Imperial Examinations before. Besides, during the Imperial Examinations, there will surely be numerous strong and intelligent individuals. How can I pass with my current cultivation?"


    "Sir, you will definitely seed, and you will surely be the champion. Ah Da, Ah Er, don''t you agree?" Princess Qianyou said confidently.


    "Sir will definitely be the champion!" Ah Da and Ah Er were also extremely confident.


    Seeing the confident trio, Zhongshan smiled faintly and said, "Let''s go then. Since His Majesty has issued the decree, we will return to the capital. As for the Tai Gu Holy Capital, we''ll discuss other matterster."


    The Tai Gu Holy Capital, the capital of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, one of the threergest cities in the world.


    On a gigantic floating ind in the Tai Gu Holy Capital, countless buildings towered overhead. In front of a massive square, hundreds of beautiful women were dancing gracefully, apanied by numerous musicians ying music, creating a scene of beauty and elegance.


    And all this performance by so many musicians and beauties was solely to please the man standing in front of the main hall.


    This man wore a Phoenix Wing Purple Gold Crown on his head, a Lock Golden Armor on his body, and Lotus Silk Cloud-Stepping Boots on his feet, exuding an air of unparalleled pride and heroism.


    This person was none other than Gu Lin, the Crown Prince who had returned from the Dayu Empire.


    Qitian Marquis, Gu Lin.


    The two phoenix wings on the Phoenix Wing Purple Gold Crown symbolized the unparalleled arrogance of the Qitian Marquis. Gu Lin lightly twisted his hand around, grabbing one of the phoenix wings and twirling it in front of him with his fingertips.


    While his eyes watched the performance in front of him, his mind was slightly focused on a distant location.


    Standing beside him were some subordinate officials, among whom was Master Shuijing, for some unknown reason.


    "My lord, His Majesty''s decree has just reached Princess Qianyou''s ce. In at most six months, Princess Qianyou will be able to return to the Tai Gu Holy Capital," an extremely spirited official said.


    "Good, half a year. I''ll wait another half a year!" Qitian Marquisughed arrogantly.


    "My lord, considering the credit you earned by bringing back the Wan Cheng Treasure Book, wouldn''t it be a waste to only exchange it for the ability to cast spells in a certain area of the Tai Gu Holy Capital?" the official said.


    "Hahaha, bringing back the Wan Cheng Treasure Book? What kind of credit is that? You have a limited view and don''t understand the broader picture. Figure it out for yourself," Qitian Marquis said arrogantly.


    "Yes," the official said immediately.


    After smelling the phoenix wings and closing his eyes, Gu Lin, with a satisfied expression, opened his eyes again, revealing an incredibly shrewd light. He stared at Master Shuijing beside him and asked, "Shuijing, how long do you think it will take for me to win back Qianyou?"


    "Shuijing doesn''t know," Master Shuijing said calmly.


    "Haha, that''s why you, Shuijing, are inferior to me. I have three strategies: attack her mind, attack her body, or attack her guilt. In no time, Qianyou will surely be my wife again. And what about you? Will you remain like this for the rest of your life? Will you and she both grow old and never change?" Qitian Marquisughed meaningfully.


    "Please enlighten me, my lord," Master Shuijing seemed to be struck with pain by Qitian Marquis''s words.


    Satisfied with Master Shuijing''s reaction, Qitian Marquis nced at him and said, "You''re not strong enough yet. If you were my father, or if you were King Daxuan, what would you have to fear? Surrendering to inferiority, you''ll be doomed forever."


    Master Shuijing frowned.


    "In eight months, there will be the Imperial Examinations. It''s an excellent opportunity. Even I will participate then. Are you going to give up this chance? Come and participate. Let me see how capable you, Master Shuijing, really are, and let the world see," Qitian Marquis encouraged.


    Looking at Qitian Marquis Gu Lin, Master Shuijing furrowed his brow, took a deep breath, and then sighed deeply. He shook his head and said no more.


    Seeing Master Shuijing''s attitude, Qitian Marquis smirked evilly, paying no further attention to him. Instead, he turned his gaze back to the square where the dance was happening.

 Chapter 260 - 260 The Ancient Holy Capital

    <h4>Chapter 260: The Ancient Holy Capital</h4>


    "The Ancient Holy Capital is just two months away from the Imperial Examinations of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty."


    Zhongshan, ny-six years old, at the sixth level of the Golden Core stage, would arrive in the Ancient Holy Capital the next day. In a valley, Zhongshan took his final rest before weing the Grand Luo Holy City, the most prosperous capital of the world, the Ancient Holy Capital.


    In the valley, Ah Da, Ah Er, and Princess Qianyou awaited Zhongshan as he closed his eyes to recuperate. ording to his arrangements, his "Great Glory Trading Company" should have already arrived in the Ancient Holy Capital by now, although he wondered about its current situation.


    The Great Glory Trading Company, led by Zhong Zheng, was still quite weak, but Zhongshan knew Zhong Zheng''s capabilities. Having studied under him for decades, Zhong Zheng was undoubtedly a top figure in market expansion. However, the Great Glory Trading Company currentlycked influence, power, and connections, making market expansion not an easy task. Therefore, this return would be an opportunity to establish its presence.


    "Roar~~~"


    Suddenly, a deafening tiger roar echoed from outside the valley. Ah Da guarded Zhongshan, while Princess Qianyou and Ah Er flew out of the valley.


    Outside the valley, there was a gigantic tiger, one hundred and forty meters tall, with a head roaring above it, a super tiger at the Yuan Ying stage or higher. Each tiger had a man in armor standing on its head, each carrying a formidablerge de on his back.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou fly out of the valley, all hundred armored men simultaneously knelt down on one knee, bowing towards Princess Qianyou.


    "Greetings, Your Highness, returning to the capital," the leader of the generals said.


    "Hmm, what are you doing here?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "At the order of the Qitian Marquis, we came to greet Your Highness on her return to the capital," the leader of the generals said.


    "The Qitian Marquis? When did you arrive? And who else is with you?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "We arrived two days ago, a total of one thousand of us, divided into ten groups, waiting in ten directions. We were just lucky enough to be here when Your Highness arrived," the man bowed.


    Princess Qianyou furrowed her brows, nodded, and said, "Wait here!"


    "Yes!" Everyone responded immediately.


    Princess Qianyou flew back to the valley with Ah Er. By now, Zhongshan had already risen.


    "Princess, we didn''t inform anyone of our whereabouts," Ah Da immediately expressed his confusion to Princess Qianyou.


    "In the Ancient Holy Capital, there are countless capable people, and it wouldn''t be difficult for them to guess the general route. But to guess the exact date, that''s much harder. Water Mirror might be able to, but these people are sent by Gu Lin. I don''t know if it was Gu Lin who figured it out or Water Mirror," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Regardless, let''s go," Zhongshan said.


    "Okay," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Then, the four of them flew out of the valley.


    Outside the valley, the hundred tigers were still waiting, but one of the hundred men who were previously on the tigers'' heads was suddenly missing. Princess Qianyou immediately knew that he had gone back to report.


    And that white tiger naturally became the transportation for Princess Qianyou''s group. White clouds slowly descended onto the head of the white tiger, which was very obedient, allowing the four of them to step on it.


    "Let''s go," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Roar~~~"


    With a loud roar, the white tiger led the way, followed closely by the other tigers behind it.


    The next day, Zhongshan arrived near the so-called Ancient Holy Capital. Across the vast distance, Zhongshan could see turbulent golden streams rushing towards the center of the sky.


    The Qi Fortune, the Qi Fortune collected by the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty.


    In the sky above the Heavenly City of the Great Universe Imperial Dynasty, a golden Qi Fortune dragon coiled.


    In the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, the sacred capital of the Heavenly Dynasty, there were countless golden Qi Fortune dragons, countless rolling Qi Fortune dragons. Although not as huge as the dragon of the Great Universe Imperial Dynasty, they excelled in quantity. Moreover, within the golden Qi Fortuneyer, they surged endlessly, roaming in all directions.


    This was still just the edge of the Qi Fortune clouds. The further inward, the more Qi Fortune clouds there were.


    The Ancient Sacred Capital, without city walls, had no need for them because this was the heart of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, where the most powerful individuals resided, the most formidable among them.


    Sieging this ce? The strength of a hundred cities couldn''t match this sacred capital without walls.


    In the distant high sky, at the very center, Qi Fortune converged. It actually formed an image of a pce within.


    The massive Nine Dragon Crossbeam Throne was entirely formed by Qi Fortune. Each Qi Fortune dragon reached the size of the Qi Fortune dragon in the sky above the Heavenly City. The Nine Dragon Crossbeam Throne merely formed a seat, a magnificent Nine Dragon Qi Fortune Throne.


    And atop the throne was a figure, seeming both real and illusory, indistinct, impossible to discern facial features. But who else could sit atop the most powerful throne but the Emperor of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty?


    The image of an Emperor formed by the convergence of Qi Fortune exuded countless majesties. Even from afar, Zhongshan could feel an overwhelming oppression emanating from that Qi Fortune shadow, a kind of celestial might. It was as if proiming to the world that he was the heaven, the heaven of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty.


    Among the most elite individuals in the world, beneath the immortals, the most supreme existence.


    Beneath the Emperor in the Qi Fortune was also two rows of Qi Fortune shadows, civil and military officials! But those who could manifest in this Qi Fortune were the top officials and nobles of the Heavenly Dynasty.


    Facial features were indiscernible, but it didn''t matter because the celestial Qi Fortune pce had already created an unbeatable impression.


    This was merely the manifestation of Qi Fortune ording to certain rules. What spectacle awaited within the true celestial court was unknown.


    Below the Qi Fortune Celestial Court was the true court of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, where the Emperor conducted affairs and resided. Surrounded by mist, only a faint glow could be sensed emanating from within.


    Because the area was too vast, covered by dense mist, nothing inside could be clearly seen, only faint glimmers prated outwards.


    Outside, countless floating inds dotted the sky, drifting in all directions as if following some mystical trajectory, with only a few stationary, most moving slowly.


    People flew back and forth, and below, crowds bustled, presenting a scene of grandeur in the sacred capital.


    "Sir, do you know why the floating inds of the sacred capital are constantly moving?" Princess Qianyou stood on the head of a giant tiger, smiling faintly at Zhongshan.


    Standing atop the forty-meter-high tiger head, Zhongshan still felt incredibly small, everything here could be described as colossal. These floating inds exceeded any he had seen before, flying incredibly high, some even reaching altitudes of a hundred thousand meters.


    "Why?" Zhongshan asked, puzzled.


    "Because the Ancient Sacred Capital has a super array. These floating inds not only serve as residences but also draw upon the power of the celestial stars. In times of utmost peril, they can even harness the power of the stars to defend against enemies." Princess Qianyou admired.


    "A super array?" Zhongshan queried.


    "The Great Luo Celestial Star Formation, the primary formation of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty," Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    "Mm," Zhongshan nodded. He was still reeling from extreme shock at this moment.


    The capital of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, the Ancient Sacred Capital.


    The capital of the Great Jun Dynasty, Xuanjing.


    The difference between heaven and earth, what a stark contrast. The strongest sacred capital versus his own, which could be considered the weakest royal city?


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan knew the road ahead was long and arduous. However, there was no sense of discouragement within him; instead, there was pride. So what if it was the Ancient Sacred Capital? In the future, the capital of the Great Jun Dynasty would surely be stronger, even more formidable!


    Lu Jianping had already be a person of the Great Jun Dynasty. The future was only a matter of time. As long as he worked hard, he could also reach the pinnacle!


    "Inside the Ancient Sacred Capital, you can fly and use spells, but you cannot castrge-scale spells," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Large-scale spells? What do you mean byrge-scale spells?" Zhongshan asked, puzzled.


    "It refers to the range of the spell. It cannot exceed ten zhang. Inside the Ancient Sacred Capital, there are many powerful individuals, countless practitioners. If it exceeds ten zhang, it will affect others. And this is a rule of the sacred capital, no one is allowed to break it, not even me, not even the princes or the crown prince," Princess Qianyou exined.


    But it seemed like fate was specifically picking on Princess Qianyou. No sooner had Princess Qianyou finished speaking than a huge orchid shadow shot up in front of her, growingrger andrger, far exceeding ten zhang, reaching a diameter of a hundred zhang, a thousand zhang, ten thousand zhang! It continued to expand.


    Princess Qianyou''s eyes widened, and at this moment, even the white tiger beneath her stopped moving forward.


    In front of Princess Qianyou, within a certain area of the Ancient Sacred Capital, petals soared into the sky from all directions. Under the control of the spell, they flew higher and higher, more and more of them.


    In just a moment, the world before Princess Qianyou''s eyes waspletely covered by endless petals, densely packed, all petals.


    Real petals, incredibly fragrant petals. Countless petals, too many to count!


    The entire world seemed to be dreamlike.


    But this was supposed to be the Ancient Sacred Capital where spellcasting beyond ten zhang was forbidden. How could this be? Although it was only a small area of the Ancient Sacred Capital, it couldn''t be sowless. More and more petals flew up into the sky and then fell down again, incredibly dreamy and beautiful.


    Why didn''t the guards of the Ancient Sacred Capital intervene? What was going on?


    Princess Qianyou looked on in bewilderment, and at the center of this sky full of petals, on a square, stood a group of people who had been waiting for a long time. Master Shuijing stood among them, slightly sighing as he looked at the person in front. That person full of vigor.


    Marquis Qitian! Gu Lin!


    Marquis Qitian wore a phoenix-winged purple gold crown on his head, a lock-golden armor on his body, lotus-silk cloud shoes on his feet, and held a phoenix feather in his right hand. He looked spirited as he gazed at the long street that had been cleared, then looked directly at Princess Qianyou and her group slowly approaching from afar.


    At Marquis Qitian''smand, countless petals danced into the sky, filling the heavens and earth. This was the first scene of Marquis Qitian''s respectful wee to Princess Qianyou.


    Using all the credit from retrieving the Wan Cheng Treasure Mirror to exchange for an opportunity to cast arge romantic spell in a fixed area of the city.


    Based on his wisdom, Marquis Qitian understood this. To win back Princess Qianyou, it all started from this first scene. Among the three strategies proposed by Marquis Qitian and Master Shuijing, it was the upper strategy. The upper strategy was to attack the heart. Once he won over Princess Qianyou''s heart, everything would fall into ce without needing to spend any further effort.

 Chapter 261: In this world, there鈥檚 more than just magic!

    <h4>Chapter 261: In this world, there''s more than just magic!</h4>


    Marquis Qitian looked full of confidence as he watched Princess Qianyou''s distant expression of astonishment, a confidence that seemed boundless, a confidence held firmly in his grasp.


    With flowers dancing in the sky, endless petals swirling around, even someone as cold-hearted as Princess Qianyou would surely be moved!


    With a slight step, Marquis Qitian caused countless petals to surge from all directions, gathering more and more, slowly lifting him higher and higher.


    And below, the petals gathered more and more, forming what seemed like a slowly materializing bridge of petals.


    Through thebined efforts of numerous experts and Marquis Qitian, a flower bridge gradually took shape. The colorful petals framed Marquis Qitian like a romantic celestial being, carrying him towards the distant location of Princess Qianyou.


    Princess Qianyou was already dumbfounded, as were Ah Da and Ah Er.


    Large-scale spells were forbidden in the Ancient Sacred Capital, yet before themy a spell that covered the sky and earth. Why it was allowed had been forgotten, and at this moment, the three were immersed in the romantic atmosphere of the sea of flowers.


    At this moment, a flower bridge in the distance became the biggest highlight in the sea of flowers, as if the entire world of flowers had been born for that flower bridge, for the figure on the bridge who seemed like a hero of heaven and earth.


    The person on the bridge became the protagonist of the moment, with everyone looking at him with admiration.


    Marquis Qitian! Gu Lin?


    Finally, after a moment of confusion, everyone recognized Marquis Qitian, who wore a phoenix-winged purple gold crown, lock-golden armor, lotus-silk cloud shoes, and exuded a sharpness that seemed to pierce the heavens and earth.


    Marquis Qitian, full of vigor, could conquer countless hearts with just his appearance and demeanor.


    Princess Qianyou, Ah Da, and Ah Er returned to their senses, but Zhongshan remained frowning and cold-eyed throughout. This Gu Lin was indeed not as ordinary as before. At least before, he could never exude such aura. Even with guidance, it would have been impossible. This was a kind of powerful pride, coupled with which, the sky full of flowers vividly portrayed the meaning of the "star effect."


    The most romantic thing was the interweaving of iron and tenderness, thepanionship of heroes and poetry, which Gu Lin achieved. No, it should be said that Marquis Qitian achieved it. Regardless of whether it was real or not, within that aura, he exhibited the true colors of a heroic iron-blooded man, yet amidst the endless flowers, he also created a poetic sentiment of tenderness. It was truly a world of difference after two years!


    Not far away, Marquis Qitian suddenly produced a purple flower about one meter in diameter in his hand. A super-sized purple orchid.


    Princess Qianyou had been watching, her eyes shing with surprise, delight, and puzzlement as she looked at Marquis Qitian standing on the flower bridge.


    Finally, on the head of the giant white tiger, the flower bridge bearing Marquis Qitian reached its destination. Standing on the tiger''s head, he said, "Qianyou, I''m back!"


    It should have been a wee to Princess Qianyou, buting from Marquis Qitian, it seemed as if he were the one returning from a distant ce.


    "Congrattions!" Princess Qianyou said sincerely.


    "Do you know what the first thing I did when I came back was?" Marquis Qitian stared at Princess Qianyou.


    "What?" Princess Qianyou asked, puzzled.


    "This Purple Heart Sky Orchid. Remember when you said you wanted a ''Purple Heart Sky Orchid''? I went to the Lan Yue Sea and waited for four months. Finally, I managed to get one. I picked it myself, just to give it to you today," Marquis Qitian said with a hint of deep affection.


    Hearing Marquis Qitian''s words and feeling the atmosphere before, any girl would be deeply moved. But at this moment, Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan beside her.


    With an immensely disappointed nce, she looked at Zhongshan.


    This small gesture didn''t escape Marquis Qitian''s eyes. His eyebrows raised slightly as he immediately turned to Princess Qianyou and said, "Qianyou, while I was resisting that person''s consciousness in the Niman Pce, I also created an image of you in my mind. Several times when I was on the verge of defeat, it was ''you'' who encouraged me. Seeing ''you'' filled me with renewed determination. It wasn''t just me who defeated that person; it was us together. I didn''t even want toe back because there was a ''you'' there. I wanted to stay with that ''you'' forever, for ten thousand years, until the limits of human endurance were exhausted. But in the end, I remembered the real you outside. The one in my mind was just an illusion. Only you are real. For you, I defeated my own attachment and left the Niman Pce."


    Although Marquis Qitian''s words could intoxicate a group of people, Princess Qianyou took a deep breath and looked at the ''Purple Heart Sky Orchid'' in Marquis Qitian''s hand, feeling somewhat reluctant as she said, "Gu Lin, the past is the past. It wasn''t me who helped you; it was you who helped yourself. It was you who forged a determination. And about the matter of the Sealing Spirit City, you should have heard about it, right? The Heavenly Tail Flower devours people. Even now, I still feel a bit repulsed and hesitant about flowers. Thank you for today''s reception, but I really can''t stand seeing so many flowers right now. I''m sorry!"


    "Repulsed by flowers?" Marquis Qitian raised an eyebrow, then nced at Zhongshan beside him.


    Finally, Marquis Qitian smiled slightly and said, "I was trying to make you happy. It was truly my mistake."


    With a wave of his hand, Marquis Qitian made a sweeping gesture.


    "Whoosh!"


    Billions of petals, at Marquis Qitian''smand, fell to the ground, no longer dancing in the sky. Marquis Qitian also put away the Purple Heart Sky Orchid in his hand. The long dreamy flower bridge also fell to the ground, and for a moment, the sky and earth became clear.


    "Qianyou, I have prepared a weing banquet for you at my Qitian Mansion. You haven''t visited my Qitian Mansion before, have you?" Marquis Qitian said.


    "No, I''ve been away for a few years, and I''m a little tired. I want to go back and rest first. Thank you for your kindness. If there''s a chance in the future, I''ll visit again," Princess Qianyou said.


    As she spoke, a hint of unfamiliarity crept into Princess Qianyou''s tone, distancing the two even further.


    Marquis Qitian raised an eyebrow, then smiled faintly and said, "Okay!"


    "Ah Er," Princess Qianyou said.


    Ah Er immediately understood and drove the white cloud, carrying Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan, and Ah Da towards a distant direction.


    Meanwhile, Marquis Qitian stood on the head of the white tiger, watching as the white cloud carried the four away. He grabbed the long phoenix wing on his head with his right hand, his eyes gleaming with arrogance and absolute self-confidence.


    Marquis Qitian knew that Princess Qianyou didn''t truly dislike flowers, because at thest moment, she still looked unwilling to part with the Purple Heart Sky Orchid. There must be another reason, and Marquis Qitian had probably guessed it. That one irritating factor was Zhongshan!


    "Zhongshan?!"


    Marquis Qitian''s eyes shed with a hint of brightness as he uttered Zhongshan''s name. There was a hint of resentment in his eyes, but more than that, there was disdain��


    In the Ancient Sacred Capital, Princess Qianyou''s residence.


    Princess Qianyou''s residence was arge restricted area where outsiders were not allowed to disturb. There were twenty floating inds inside, and only one of the floating inds would pass through this restricted area. The owner of that floating ind was also Princess Qianyou.


    Below, on the ground, stood a huge pce, the ''Yon Pce.''


    Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan, Ah Da, and Ah Er all walked in.


    "Sir, you will live next to the Yon Pce from now on," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Good!" Zhongshan nodded.


    "Sir, how did you find the flower-filled environment that Gu Lin created just now?" Princess Qianyou suddenly smiled at Zhongshan.


    "It was like a dream." Zhongshan replied straightforwardly.


    "Yes, like a dream indeed. You know, at that time, Qianyou really liked it." Princess Qianyou stared at Zhongshan.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou''s gaze intensify, Zhongshan sighed lightly and smiled.


    "Qianyou said those things against her heart because of you, sir. You owe me something!" Princess Qianyou said.


    Meanwhile, Ah Da and Ah Er were very tactful and walked to a distance to wait, allowing Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou to have a private conversation.


    "Owe? How do you want me to repay?" Zhongshan answered readily.


    Zhongshan had told Princess Qianyou before that their rtionship was only sentimental and not deeply profound, needing time to prove. But seeing Marquis Qitian expressing his love so fervently, even though Zhongshan''s feelings were not particrly strong, he still felt somewhat displeased. It was as if Princess Qianyou could sense Zhongshan''s inner voice and very cooperatively rejected that deration of love.


    Zhongshan felt quite relieved, so much so that when he looked at Princess Qianyou, he thought she looked even more beautiful. So when Princess Qianyou mentioned "repayment," Zhongshan readily agreed.


    "I want... I want you, sir, to create a grander scene for Qianyou than Marquis Qitian did, something entirely dedicated to her. A magnificent spectacle born solely for Qianyou." Princess Qianyou said.


    Every girl has dreams and aspirations, and although Princess Qianyou was at the Combined Body stage in her cultivation, she still had her own dreams. She wished for the person she liked to be the most outstanding, even if only in some aspect.


    Watching Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan took a deep breath because there was a hint of coquettishness in Princess Qianyou''s tone.


    "Here in the Ancient Sacred Capital?" Zhongshan stared at Princess Qianyou and asked.


    "Yes, right here." Princess Qianyou affirmed, her eyes shing with anticipation.


    "Alright, within ten days, I will prepare a visually stunning spectacle for the princess, a scene that will surpass anything Marquis Qitian did before,pletely dedicated to Qianyou, to let everyone know that you''ve returned." Zhongshan nodded firmly.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Princess Qianyou first felt joy, then a bit of worry. "Sir,rge-scale spells are not allowed in the city," she reminded him.


    "Don''t worry, in this world, there''s more than just magic!" Zhongshan smiled slightly.

 Chapter 262:The shop was called "Gathering the Ordinary"

    <h4>Chapter 262:The shop was called "Gathering the Ordinary"</h4>


    In the Ancient Sacred Capital!


    Marquis Qitian''s Mansion.


    Marquis Qitian sat in arge hall, his eyes closed, fingers lightly tapping on the table beside him, a faint smile ying on his lips as if contemting something.


    Standing before him were Mr. Shuijing and a man dressed in ck robes.


    "Marquis, what happened yesterday was truly a pity!" the man in ck robes said.


    "Pity? Ling Feng, don''t you feel that things are getting more interesting now?" Marquis Qitian stopped tapping his fingers and opened his eyes, smiling.


    "Interesting? Subordinate doesn''t see anything interesting," Ling Feng shook his head.


    "What about you, Shuijing?" Marquis Qitian turned to Mr. Shuijing beside him.


    "Subordinate doesn''t understand Marquis''s meaning," Mr. Shuijing shook his head.


    "Don''t understand? Hehe, it doesn''t matter if you don''t understand. Qianyou has a very strong personality, even more difficult to sway her heart than that so-called Iceberg Proud Lady. But in just a few years, she seems to have been loosened up a bit by that Zhongshan. This Zhongshan is quite knowledgeable in matters of men and women, and having such an expert as an opponent makes it interesting," Marquis Qitian chuckled.


    "Marquis is so confident?" Mr. Shuijing stared at Marquis Qitian.


    "That''s right, I am confident. Do you know the origin of my title? In the entire Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, who dares to have such a title? Even the Four Great Princes don''t have this honor. Qitian, who dares to vie with the heavens? Only me!" Marquis Qitian''s face was full of pride.


    "Congrattions, Marquis!" both Mr. Shuijing and Ling Feng said simultaneously.


    "You will know the reason behind ''Qitian''ter. But, Shuijing, do you have something to tell me?" Marquis Qitian''s tone changed as he looked at Mr. Shuijing with a smile.


    "Yes, Marquis, I beg to inform you that nine days from now, I will be attending a banquet at Princess Qianyou''s mansion. I hope Marquis will allow it!" Mr. Shuijing immediately said.


    "Oh? Qianyou invited you?" Marquis Qitian''s eyes showed surprise.


    "Yes," Mr. Shuijing nodded immediately.


    Staring at Mr. Shuijing, Marquis Qitian''s expression changed, revealing a meaningful smile. "Is it possible that Jiuniang was also invited?"


    Taking a deep breath, Mr. Shuijing''s emotions unexpectedly changed, and he said, "Yes."


    "Haha, good, I''ll allow you to go. But, you have to help me deliver a message to Zhongshan." Marquis Qitian''s eyes shed with a hint of cunning.


    "Please go ahead, Marquis," Mr. Shuijing exhaled deeply.


    "You tell him, in two months, during the imperial examination of the Heavenly Dynasty, if he fails to enter the top three, he will have to kowtow to me every time he sees me!" Marquis Qitian suddenlyughed.


    "Yes!" Mr. Shuijing immediately agreed.


    "Marquis, why should he kowtow to you if he doesn''t enter the top three? And what does it have to do with the great deed he did this time?" Ling Feng asked puzzledly.


    "Because, he rendered a great service this time. One great deed deserves another, hahaha!" Marquis Qitianughed.


    Ling Feng, however, was still puzzled. Why should he kowtow for rendering a great service? Does that mean if he didn''t render the great service, he wouldn''t have to kowtow? ����


    At the same time, in a corner of amercial street in the Ancient Sacred Capital, in the smallest shop.


    The shop was almost in the farthest corner, not inconspicuous, but impossible to find if one wasn''t looking carefully.


    The shop was called "Gathering the Ordinary," and underneath the signboard of "Gathering the Ordinary," there was a small golden character "Rong."


    A branch of the Great Rong Chamber in a shop in the Ancient Sacred Capital.


    The shop closed today, with the door slightly ajar. Ada stood at the entrance waiting, while Zhongshan entered alone.


    In a side hall, a barrier formation was set up.


    Zhongshan sat at the head, holding a cup of tea, smiling faintly. Standing in front of him was the Crown Prince of the Great Rong Dynasty, Zhong Zheng.


    "Zheng''er, you''ve done well this time. Wanting the Great Rong Chamber to establish itself in the Ancient Sacred Capital and quickly gather resources, Gathering the Ordinary is very suitable. It''s innovative and stands out, yet it''s the most ordinary thing. It won''t attract envy. As long as you put in the effort with the officials and local bosses, it will thrive." Zhongshan praised.


    "Thank you, Father King!" Zhong Zheng immediately smiled.


    "Here, we are not monarch and subject, but father and son," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes, foster father!" Zhong Zheng smiled and said.


    "Foster father, as per your request, I have dropped the ''Zhong'' from my name and now go by ''Zheng.'' Gathering the Ordinary has been open for a while now, just waiting for foster father toe and oversee it." Zhong Zheng said again.


    "I trust you to handle things. However, there is something I need you to do this time, and if you do it well, it will also serve as publicity for Gathering the Ordinary." Zhongshan said.


    "Please instruct, foster father." Zhong Zheng said.


    Zhongshan smiled slightly and handed a jade slip to Zhong Zheng.


    Zhong Zheng took it and examined it, his brows furrowing deeply, then looked at Zhongshan with some surprise. "Foster father, do you really want to go this far?"


    "Everything will be in ce within nine days. I will have Princess Qianyou inform the people below and fully cooperate with you. It''s a bit rushed, but isn''t it always like this in the capital?" Zhongshan said.


    "Understood!" Zhong Zheng nodded.


    "Next, within nine days, you may not have time to rest. At that time, I will have Princess Qianyou summon arge number of powerful individuals, even some in the Yuan Ying stage, for you to use. Make sure to achieve results within nine days." Zhongshan said.


    "Foster father, rest assured. With the authorization from Princess Qianyou and the assistance of many cultivators, there should be no problem." Zhong Zheng smiled.


    "Good, you are now the president of the Great Rong Chamber. Make sure to fight this battle beautifully." Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" Zhong Zheng smiled and responded ��


    Nine dayster. Evening, Princess Qianyou''s mansion.


    Outside the Orchid Pavilion, on the square, Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou stood together, looking at the magnificent night sky.


    "Sir, you borrowed nearly ten thousand people from me. Those ten thousand cultivators were borrowed from my father. What do you need so many people for? Where have they gone?" Princess Qianyou stared at Zhongshan and asked.


    "For the promise I made to the princess ten days ago!" Zhongshan smiled.


    "Oh? Ten thousand people? Are you going to create a scenerger than the one with billions of flower petals without using magic?" Princess Qianyou eximed in surprise.


    "That''s right. But today, you''ve invited someone else, so let''s wait for them to arrive before we begin. Otherwise, if we get too engrossed and theye without us noticing, it will be a shame!" Zhongshan smiled.


    "It''s okay. It''s not like they are strangers. This time, I only invited two people, mainly to repay the favor Water Mirror once did me." Princess Qianyou said.


    "Oh? Water Mirror? Repay him? Who else?" Zhongshan asked puzzledly.


    "There is one more, the Ninth Princess of the Great Xuan Dynasty. It is her presence that has tied down Water Mirror, this extraordinary talent, making him willingly serve under the Great Xuan King and be content with not asking for an official position in the Heavenly Dynasty." Princess Qianyou said.


    At this moment, Ah Er flew over quickly and said, "Princess, Mr. Shuijing has arrived."


    "Let him in!" Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes!" Ah Er immediately flew out.


    Soon, Mr. Shuijing was brought in by Ah Er. Seeing Mr. Shuijing, Zhongshan''s eyes lit up because Mr. Shuijing looked quite different today. He was dressed very brightly, unlike anything Zhongshan had seen before.


    Previously, in Zhongshan''s mind, Mr. Shuijing was just someone who kept himself clean and neat. But now, he looked like a handsome uncle, with his feather fan put away, holding a folding fan in his hand, disying an elegant demeanor.


    "Mr. Shuijing, you..." Zhongshan was somewhat surprised.


    "Sir, don''t mind. Every time I invite Mr. Shuijing, he changes his previous style and dresses up handsomely and elegantly." Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "No problem, thanks for your amodation, Your Highness." Mr. Shuijing immediately thanked Princess Qianyou.


    "It''s okay. I haven''t seen my senior sister for a long time, so I just invited her over to catch up." Princess Qianyou said.


    "Thank you!" Mr. Shuijing said again.


    With a smile, Princess Qianyou looked towards Ah Da flying over from a distance.


    "Princess, the Ninth Princess of the Great Xuan Dynasty has arrived." Ah Da said.


    "Quickly, please! Um, have her sedan bearers wait outside. They are not allowed toe in here." Princess Qianyou immediately said.


    "Yes!" Ah Da quickly flew out.


    Not long after, Ah Da brought back a gorgeously dressed woman.


    Although the woman''s appearance was not outstanding, her rosy cheeks, round face, and yful eyes made Zhongshan feel that she was probably a lively and cheerful girl even before she spoke.


    "Qianyou, you''re back? You''ve been gone for so long this time." The woman eximed excitedly, grabbing Princess Qianyou''s hand with a happy expression on her face.


    "Sister, you''re a princess now. You should be more dignified!" Princess Qianyouughed.


    "Okay, okay, you''re not a stranger. Um, Mr. Shuijing? Are you here too?" The woman smiled.


    "Mr. Shuijing pays his respects to the princess." Mr. Shuijing immediately stepped forward. When he looked at the woman, a strange pain shed in his eyes.


    "Every time Ie to Qianyou''s ce, I always see you. Are you working under my husband but secretly serving Qianyou?" The woman immediately teased.


    "It''s all just a coincidence." Mr. Shuijing immediately shook his head. There was some infatuation in his eyes as he looked at the woman, but he dared not look at her too much for fear of being noticed.


    "Okay, okay, I have someone else here." Princess Qianyouughed.


    At this moment, the woman finally looked at Zhongshan.


    "I''m Zhongshan, the princess''s bodyguard. I greet the princess." Zhongshan immediately said.


    "Oh? Golden Core stage? Qianyou, when did you get a bodyguard in the Golden Core stage?" The woman immediately looked at Princess Qianyou in surprise.


    "He''s my husband." Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan and said.


    "Husband? Um, like Mr. Shuijing?" The woman immediately asked.


    "Sort of." Princess Qianyou nodded.

 Chapter 263:Visual Feast

    <h4>Chapter 263:Visual Feast</h4>


    Mr. Shuijing asionally nced at the princess, his eyes filled with a mix of sorrow, joy, excitement, and mncholy. He didn''t dare let the princess notice, just stealing nces at her.


    Zhongshan had been observing Mr. Shuijing all along and had never seen him behave like this. Was this still the same Mr. Shuijing, who used to be calm andposed?


    Judging from the princess''s attitude towards Mr. Shuijing, she seemed to have no feelings for him, merely an acquaintance, and not a close one at that.


    Unrequited love? Mr. Shuijing was in love with the princess? No, at least in Zhongshan''s mind, Mr. Shuijing wasn''t that kind of person, and his gaze seemed to hold a story of its own. Something must have happened in the past, but the princess seemed unaware. Could it be some lost memories from before?


    Regardless, it was all spection. Zhongshan could only suppress his doubts for now and understand themter.


    "Oh? Qianyou, is what you said true?" The princess suddenly eximed with joy. It seemed Princess Qianyou had told her something.


    "Yes!" Princess Qianyou blushed. She looked at Zhongshan beside her.


    "Quick, quick, let me see what it is! I was wondering why Qianyou called me, turns out there''s something good." The princess immediately turned to Zhongshan.


    Mr. Shuijing also looked at Zhongshan with curiosity.


    Looking at Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan said, "Princess, let''s start with thismp tonight!" Zhongshan said. After speaking, he suddenly produced a three-zhang-high paperntern, a skyntern, from his hand.


    Simple to make, especially in the hands of cultivators.


    On the giant skyntern were written the words: "Princess Qianyou, a thousand years, a thousand years, countless years."


    "What is this?" Princess Qianyou asked puzzled.


    Zhongshan wanted to say it was called the ''Zhongshan Lantern,'' but he ultimately couldn''t bring himself to say it.


    "This is amp that will spread the princess''s name throughout the ancient capital. Princess, shall we release it together?" Zhongshan smiled.


    "Lamp? Release?" Princess Qianyou asked in confusion. While the princess and Mr. Shuijing looked at Zhongshan in confusion.


    "Princess, hold it like this, let me show you." Zhongshan said.


    Princess Qianyou followed Zhongshan''s method, holding the skyntern, while Zhongshan ignited the me below. The entire skyntern lit up, and the words on it became clearer.


    "Princess Qianyou, a thousand years, a thousand years, countless years."


    "Let go gently," Zhongshan instructed Princess Qianyou.


    "It''s flying, it''s really flying!" Princess Qianyou eximed with excitement.


    "Yes, it''s flying, but there''s no mana fluctuation, how did it fly?" The princess also looked surprised.


    Mr. Shuijing felt a slight surprise, but quickly understood the principle, took a deep breath, and sighed softly.


    "Zhongshan, do you have another one? I want to release one more." Princess Qianyou said excitedly.


    "We do," Zhongshan said.


    "Oh, Mr. Shuijing, you must have figured out the principle of thismp." Zhongshan suddenly turned to Mr. Shuijing.


    "The master is wise, Mr. Shuijing is inferior." Mr. Shuijing immediately humbly replied, but his tone implied that he had understood the principle.


    "Good, I''ll help the princess release another one, and you teach the princess to release one." Zhongshan smiled.


    "Okay, okay!" The princess immediately became excited.


    But Mr. Shuijing''s eyes brightened as he looked at Zhongshan, taking a deep breath, a hint of gratitude shing in his eyes.


    The queen didn''t notice anything, but Princess Qianyou smiled knowingly at Zhongshan.


    In a swift motion, Zhongshan produced three more skynterns.


    Together with the princess, they lit one, while Mr. Shuijing happily taught the queen to release another, and Ah Da and Ah Er excitedly followed suit, releasing one as well.


    In total, there were four skynterns, slowly ascending higher and higher. Soon, one of the skynterns flew out of the light curtain area where Princess Qianyou''s mansion was located.


    It seemed like a signal.


    Suddenly, from all directions on the ground, countless skynterns ascended into the sky, more and more appearing. From all directions, a multitude of skynterns flew up.


    Ten thousand cultivators mobilized by Zhong Zheng ran in all directions, continuously releasing these skynterns.


    They danced in the sky. This was what it meant to fill the sky. Countless skynterns ascended slowly, and the entire ancient capital suddenly fell silent.


    Everyone looked up at the sky, a hint of surprise and incredulity in their eyes. Lanterns? Flyingnterns? Who had the audacity to perform magic in the ancient capital? Moreover, the scope of this phenomenon covered the entire capital. Even in the distant ces, once they approached, they could still see these flyingnterns.


    Thew enforcement teams of the capital quickly investigated and found that there was no mana fluctuation around thesenterns. How was this possible? Moreover, eachntern was engraved with "Princess Qianyou, a thousand years, a thousand years, countless years!"


    With this, who would dare to cause trouble for no reason? If someone broke thew and was caught, they could be dealt with, but now there was no vition!


    Countless cultivators looked at the skyward-bound skynterns, a hint of astonishment shing in their hearts. Who could have done this?


    This night was destined to be a sleepless one for the ancient capital. Merchants looked at the skyward-bound skynterns, seeing nothing but business opportunities.


    The Hou Mansion!


    The Hou Mansion stood in the square, with the protector appointed by the Great Xuan King, Lingfeng, standing behind.


    A hint of surprise and a cold smile shed in the eyes of the Lord of the Hou Mansion.


    Princess Qianyou, however, looked extremely satisfied as she gazed up at the sky, watching the skynterns ascend higher and higher, farther and farther away. The sky was filled withnterns, just like countless stars, and each one bore her name.


    "So beautiful. If only this starlight shower were for me." The queen said enviously.


    Mr. Shuijing opened his mouth but didn''t say anything.


    After waiting for a while, the countless skynterns also ascended into the clouds, obscured from view.


    "I''m very satisfied, sir!" Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Is this all it takes to satisfy you? This is just the beginning." Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Huh?" Princess Qianyou looked puzzled.


    And at that moment, outside Princess Qianyou''s mansion, a crisp sound rang out.


    "Boom!"


    Like thunder, a burst of fire shot up into the sky.


    "Bang!"


    The fire burst in mid-air. After the explosion, it dispersed in a very regr manner, turning into hundreds of points of light, scattering in all directions, forming the outline of a giant left foot.


    "Boom!"


    "Bang!"


    Following closely was a giant right foot, a colossal fireworks right foot.


    The fireworks burned in the sky for a while, forming tworge feet perfectly.


    The fireworks of the left foot disappeared, and not far away, another loud boom resounded.


    "Boom!"


    "Bang!"


    Another left foot made of fireworks appeared, followed by the right foot.


    In the sky, a pattern formed by fireworks resembled two real giant feet, and they started running forward, each step being a fireworks foot.


    The giant feet began stomping around the entire ancient capital, initially from one giant to a group of giants midway through Zhongshan''s consideration of the capital''s vastness. A group of giant feet ran wildly throughout the ancient capital, heading east, west, south, and north.


    For a moment, the entire ancient capital was in an uproar. Countless people came out to witness this sudden spectacle. Countless fireworks shot up from all directions, running rampant throughout the ancient capital.


    Finally, after circling the capital and arousing the curiosity of the entire city, the fireworks feet returned to the vicinity of Princess Qianyou''s mansion. Everyone looked in that direction, and at the instant thest fireworks foot disappeared.


    Suddenly, countless fireworks flowers shot up into the sky around Princess Qianyou''s mansion again.


    For a moment, it was incredibly bright from all directions. The flowers were in full bloom, countless blossoms bursting open, all created by fireworks.


    "Peonies, roses, chrysanthemums..." the queen eximed excitedly, watching the flowers in all directions, her eyes full of excitement.


    As thousands of fireworks blossomed, countless ''flowers'' bloomed. At this moment, from all directions of the ancient capital, from the edges of the capital, countless fireworks once again shot into the sky. They were butterflies, countless butterflies made of fireworks, flying into the sky.


    One by one, the fireworks blossomed, resembling butterflies flying continuously. One extinguished, another was born. Slowly, countless butterflies danced gracefully and flew towards the center of the ancient capital, towards the target at Princess Qianyou''s mansion.


    Although such effects could be created with spells, this was the ancient capital! When had such a spectacle ever been seen here? Moreover, countless powerful individuals had observed it, finding no mana fluctuations whatsoever.


    Countless butterflies fluttered and flew towards Princess Qianyou''s mansion. As they approached, all the flowers around Princess Qianyou''s mansion suddenly transformed into orchids, and with thebined efforts of the surrounding fireworks, a super-sized orchid abruptly appeared, shining in purple.


    This was the Purple Heart Sky Orchid, the flower that Gu Lin had taken out not long ago. Now, it was disyed with fireworks, appearing even more dazzling.


    Countless butterflies flew over, gathering on the Purple Heart Sky Orchid. Then, they scattered in all directions, creating the most beautiful scene.


    The entire processsted for nearly two hours, but looking back on those two hours, no one felt tired. Not only everyone present but also the entire city felt the same.


    This was a momentum, a majestic momentum.


    After the fireworks ended, many people still waited, as if unwilling to end the festivities. But many also knew it was over and quickly flew towards those who had set off the fireworks earlier, to inquire about where they hade from.


    Simrly, in a corner of the Gathered Mortals Pavilion, Zhong Zheng had already hired arge group of people who sat in a row, waiting for visitors to ce orders.

 Chapter 264: The Great Light and Great Yu Alliance

    <h4>Chapter 264: The Great Light and Great Yu Alliance</h4>


    Such a beautiful scene, not only for those outside the mansion of Princess Qianyou but also for those within.


    Everyone watched breathlessly, mesmerized by the beauty. The queen''s eyes sparkled with excitement. While effects created byrge-scale spells might be better, the sheer quantity here was unparalleled. At least the queen had never seen such a massive fireworks disy.


    Mr. Shuijing took a deep breath, shaking his head slightly with a hint of admiration.


    Ah Da and Ah Er looked up with excitement, while Princess Qianyou''s gaze turned to Zhongshan, her eyes softening, a deeper affection evident.


    "Qianyou, is there more from Zhongshan? More?" The queen asked eagerly.


    Looking at the queen, Zhongshan shook his head speechlessly. "No, it''s been over three hours since they came down. It''ll be dawn soon!"


    "That''s a pity," the queen sighed lightly.


    "I''m satisfied. Let''s go, let''s have something to eat in the Fragrant Orchid Hall," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Okay," the queen nodded.


    The two women entered the hall first, followed closely by the four men.


    Inside, the dining table was arranged ording to the style of the ancient Great Yu Dynasty, with a circryout offering a variety of delicacies.


    As the queen picked out food on her te, she said, "Qianyou, you''re really lucky to have found Zhongshan. He came up with so many ideas."


    Zhongshan smiled slightly, while Princess Qianyou pouted inexplicably. "It''s a pity he''s leaving my mansion soon."


    "Huh?" The queen was surprised.


    Zhongshan scratched his nose with a wry smile. It was the princess''s decision in the end, but now she med it on him.


    "In forty days, there''s the imperial examination. If he attends and gets the top three, he can''t continue to be my guard," Princess Qianyou said.


    Hearing this, the queen was momentarily stunned, then she looked at Princess Qianyou and smiled, "Not being a guard anymore, but bing a general or minister in the future. Otherwise, how can he match up to a princess like you?"


    "Sister..." Princess Qianyou blushed.


    "A man, of course, needs to make achievements, or he''ll be worthless just staying by your side," the queen exined to Princess Qianyou bluntly.


    Princess Qianyou blushed, while Zhongshan felt a bit embarrassed. The queen was quite straightforward.


    "But I doubt whether this Mr. Zhongshan of yours is really that capable. Top three in the imperial examination is not easy at all. Are you that confident?" the queen suddenly asked, puzzled.


    "Well, if you don''t believe it, you can ask Shuijing," Princess Qianyou said.


    Upon hearing this, the queen immediately turned to Mr. Shuijing for rification.


    Seeing the queen''s gaze, Mr. Shuijing immediately said, "Mr. Zhongshan''s talent far exceeds mine!"


    "I don''t believe it. Shuijing, don''t intentionally speak nonsense," the queen shook her head andughed.


    "Every word spoken by Mr. Shuijing is true," Mr. Shuijing immediately replied.


    "Mr. Shuijing is too modest. How could Zhongshan dare topare himself to you?" Zhongshan smiled.


    "Well, why notpare? Shuijing, why don''t you participate in the imperial examination too?" the queen suggested.


    "Huh, do you want me to participate in the imperial examination?" Mr. Shuijing stared at the queen.


    "Yes, let me see how well you can do. Even if you pass in the future, you can continue to serve my husband. Otherwise, you''ll always be stuck in the pce as an adviser, which is too unfair," the queen said kindly.


    Mr. Shuijing smiled bitterly. Unfair? More like too weak. But for what he wanted, being weak didn''t matter. However, now that she had spoken up...


    "Alright, Shuijing, I''ll listen to you," Mr. Shuijing said immediately.


    "That''s the way," the queen smiled.


    Twenty days had passed since the Starlight Lanterns and the city fireworks.


    Jifanzhai had firmly established itself in the ancient capital. Although there were many shops following suit, producing fireworks that were no less impressive than those of Jifanzhai, and even crafting more exquisite Kongmingnterns, this first shop still won over arge number of customers.


    The most important thing was that Zhong Zheng deeply understood Zhongshan''s theory of sixteen words: "People without me, people have me superior, people superior, I''m cheaper, people cheaper, I''m nonexistent."


    Now, everyone was following suit. Jifanzhai only treated it as an auxiliary industry, with even more novel things about to emerge. Human wisdom was boundless, and strange and rare items were sure to satisfy the endless consumption in the ancient capital. Moreover, they were about to start opening branch stores.


    The shops continued to thrive.


    Meanwhile, the atmosphere in the Princess Qianyou''s mansion became extremely tense.


    Inside the Orchid Hall, there were still four people: Zhongshan, Qianyou, Ah Da, and Ah Er.


    "Ah Er, is the information absolutely true?" Princess Qianyou asked again, puzzled.


    "Yes, Princess. It''s absolutely true. That Bai Ye, who was bitten by the Zombie Emperor, was originally the emperor of the Daye Dynasty. Not long after Bai Ye disappeared, the Daye Dynasty was divided by the surrounding countries. And not only that, but the other two dynasties that surrounded the Great Yu Dynasty, the Dayan Dynasty and the Dalu Dynasty, were also destroyed not long ago," Ah Er said.


    "Destroyed? Two dynasties, how were they destroyed? How long has it been? Two years? A mighty dynasty, actually destroyed?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "The Dayan and Dalu Dynasties were indeed strong, but the ones who destroyed them were even stronger. It''s not difficult for the three major dynasties to destroy two dynasties," Ah Er said.


    "Which three major dynasties?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "The Great Yu Dynasty, the Great Guang Dynasty, and another one, the Great Xun Dynasty," Ah Er said.


    "The Great Xun Dynasty?" Princess Qianyou frowned in thought.


    Zhongshan narrowed his eyes. From this information, he quickly discovered something unusual.


    It was indeed easy for the three major dynasties to besiege and destroy two dynasties, but the key was what the purpose of these three major dynasties was.


    The Great Yu Dynasty and the Great Guang Dynasty, he had just visited. One had the King of Jilu, and the other had the Cold Extremity Prince. As for the Great Xun Dynasty, Zhongshan also knew about it. It was one of the three dynasties currently at war with the Daluo Dynasty.


    Why could the three major dynasties suddenly cooperate sincerely to jointly exterminate two small dynasties sandwiched between them?


    Perhaps it was to expand their territory, which could exin it, but the rtionship between these three major dynasties was too special, at least too special for the Daluo Dynasty.


    Could it be that the Great Yu Dynasty and the Great Guang Dynasty were actually cooperating?


    "Bad!" Princess Qianyou suddenly eximed.


    "What''s wrong, Princess?" Ah Da asked curiously.


    "The Great Yu Dynasty and the Great Guang Dynasty are cooperating," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "They''re cooperating?" Ah Er asked in confusion.


    "No, I mean, they''re nning to cooperate against my Daluo Dynasty," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Against my Daluo Dynasty?" Ah Er eximed in surprise.


    "The Great Xun Dynasty was originally at war with our dynasty, not counting it, my Daluo Dynasty is about to face a joint attack from the Great Yu Dynasty and the Great Guang Dynasty, changing from facing three major dynasties to now facing five major dynasties," Princess Qianyou said in shock.


    "The five major dynasties?" Ah Er also sucked in a cold breath.


    "Yes, it''s possible that the war has already started at the border. By wiping out the two dynasties, the Great Guang Dynasty''s territory now extends to the border of my Daluo Dynasty. Facing a joint attack from five major dynasties, the situation is dire," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "That''s not the main issue. The most important thing is whether there might be others lurking in the dark," Zhongshan furrowed his brow.


    "Are you saying, sir, that there are other forces involved?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Yes, but who knows for sure now?" Zhongshan shook his head.


    "Alright, the Emperor summoned me. I''ll go meet him and see what his attitude is," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Okay," everyone in the hall nodded.


    Twenty dayster, in the Orchid Hall of Princess Qianyou''s mansion.


    Zhongshan, Qianyou, Ah Da, and Ah Er all had furrowed brows.


    "Princess, just as you guessed, the frontline war has begun. Although the City of Wushuang has not fallen, countless casualties have already urred. The City Lord of Wushuang, Shuitianya, has died in the line of duty," Ah Er sighed.


    "Shuitianya is dead?" Ah Da found it hard to believe.


    Who was Shuitianya? Wasn''t he the one Zhongshan helped to be the City Lord a few years ago? Dead? He actually died?


    "He''s dead. The situation on the frontline is very grim. Wushuang City is also having trouble holding out," Ah Er sighed.


    "It''sing aggressively!" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yes, these past few days, my father has gone to the frontline to supervise the war. Of the four Great Princes, only the Great Xuan Prince is still in the ancient capital. I don''t know what he''s up to. Right now, the forces he''s involved with are facing the attacks of the Great Yu Dynasty and the Great Guang Dynasty," Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "He''s waiting for the imperial examination ten dayster. He wants to wait until after the imperial examination to personally oversee the situation in the south," Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    "Wait until after the imperial examination?" Ah Da asked in confusion.


    "Yes, the war in the south is the mostplicated. The Great Xuan Prince is not an ordinary person, as you''ve described him. He must be waiting until after the imperial examination to grasp the overall situation, coordinate the counterattack. However, although he''s in the ancient capital, his orders should be continuously issued to all directions, coordinating the defense," Zhongshan said after some thought.


    "Why? Why wait until after the imperial examination?" Ah Da asked in puzzlement.


    "After the imperial examination, you''ll understand," Zhongshan said.


    "Alright," Ah Da nodded with doubt.


    "Sir, what are your ns? Are you still going?" Princess Qianyou suddenly showed a hint of worry.


    "I''ve already registered my name. There''s no reason not to go. Don''t worry, Princess, no matter how I perform in the examination, I''ve once been a member of the Princess''s mansion," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Okay," Princess Qianyou nodded lightly, although still somewhat worried, her expression was much more rxed.

 Chapter 265: Zhongshan鈥檚 Greatest Advantage!

    <h4>Chapter 265: Zhongshan''s Greatest Advantage!</h4>


    In the Daluo Dynasty, the imperial examination was held!


    The purpose of the imperial examination was to select the most outstanding talents for the Daluo Dynasty, fill vacancies in the government, and provide an opportunity for all kinds of cultivators to showcase their talents and join the Daluo Dynasty.


    In the Daluo Dynasty, where strong individuals abounded, there were two parts to the examination: the literary test and the martial test.


    The martial test was straightforward; as long as your strength was sufficient, you could be selected, but you could only enter the third tier.


    The imperial examination was divided into three tiers: the first tier had only three individuals��the top schr, the role model, and the flower seeker. These were the top three most outstanding individuals.


    The second tier had sixteen individuals, who were considered to have both literary and martial abilities, slightly inferior to the first tier.


    The third tier had seventy-two individuals, specializing either in martial arts or writing remarkable articles.


    With Zhongshan''s cultivation at the sixth level of the Golden Pill Realm, his best oue would be one of two possibilities: either he would be in the third tier, impressing others with his literary talents, or he would write an astonishing work that overshadowed his cultivation, allowing people to overlook his cultivation level and ce him in the first tier.


    However, no matter how impressive his literary talents were, he would still have to be able to defeat three individuals with simr strength to his own.


    Dealing with three individuals of simr strength? Zhongshan was full of confidence.


    On the day of the imperial examination, it was a grand asion with many strong individuals gathering. These strong individuals were not only participants but also some reclusive cultivators who came to observe the grand asion of the imperial examination because every imperial examination would produce some astonishing talents.


    First was the martial test.


    Zhongshan had a reputation for self-awareness and naturally wouldn''tpete for the top spot in the martial test. Instead, he chose the literary test and challenged the first tier.


    Challenging the first tier meant defeating three individuals of simr strength.


    In front of a huge arena, surrounded by arge audience, Princess Qianyou, Ah Da, and Ah Er patiently watched from the sidelines. In a secluded corner, Zhong Zheng also watched in admiration.


    In the center of the arena stood four people��Zhongshan with a sword, surrounded by three men in purple robes.


    These three men in purple robes were just recruited from the military. Because no one below the Yuanying stage had ever challenged for the first tier, what was the point of someone at the Golden Pill stage participating? They were just too weak.


    With a sword in hand, Zhongshan remained calm as the three men in the Golden Pill stage surrounded him. If it were anyone else, they would definitely have to be extremely cautious, because all three were soldiers, and their strength was honed from countless battles. Even though Zhongshan was only at the sixth level of the Golden Pill Realm, the aura surrounding him was still awe-inspiring.


    Each of the three men grabbed their swords and stared coldly at Zhongshan. Their identities as soldiers reminded them to never let down their guard at any moment.


    "Begin!" the referee shouted.


    As soon as the referee finished shouting, all four of them moved at the same time!


    Boom!


    A continuous thunderous roar rang out as countless lightning bolts descended from the sky, pouring down from all directions,pletely shrouding the entire arena in the center. Countless electric currents overflowed, causing the spectators on the outside to quickly retreat. In the blink of an eye, the arena was cleared.


    Due to the special materials used for the arena, there was no damage, but the momentum was somewhat frightening. Was this the power disyed by someone at the sixth level of the Golden Pill Realm? The peak of the Golden Pill Realm? What kind of technique was this?


    The overwhelming thunder and lightning obscured the view inside, leaving everyone present stunned. Although there were a few strong individuals among the spectators, most of them were at the Golden Pill stage, and a very few were at the Yuanying stage. They couldn''t participate in such a fiercepetition.


    However, the battle of these "weaklings" shocked everyone present. Could I handle this?


    Boom!


    Endless thunder and lightning exploded, revealing the scene inside once again, exactly the same as before. Zhongshan held his sword in the center, surrounded by three men. At this moment, the clothes of the three men were slightly charred, and their faces were covered in cold sweat. They gripped theirrge swords, trembling slightly��not out of fear, but because their hands were a little exhausted.


    "Please, you have my respect." Zhongshan sheathed his sword and said lightly.


    The spectators around widened their eyes, looking at Zhongshan in the center. Is he being foolish?


    "Thank you, senior, for going easy on us!" The three men all sped their fists towards Zhongshan.


    The referee, with a hint of doubt, dered, "Zhongshan wins!"


    Zhong Zheng, on the side, smiled excitedly and left, while Princess Qianyou clenched her fists in excitement. Only those with lower cultivation levels on the outside stared with wide eyes, watching this incredible scene unfold.


    Just one move? It ended with just one move?


    With a slight smile, Zhongshan epted the jade que handed to him by the referee and walked back to Princess Qianyou''s side amidst some curious nces.


    Pushing through the crowd, Zhongshan flew to other arenas to see how others were faring.


    Mr. Shuijing also chose the literary test and directly defeated three individuals of simr cultivation levels. Seeing Mr. Shuijing walk down calmly, Zhongshan smiled slightly. Mr. Shuijing also had great ambitions.


    Mr. Shuijing was at the Emperor''s Realm. If he gave his all, entering the second tier would be no problem. But he gave up; he only wanted to showcase his literary talent. In the way of literature, his ambition was to secure one of the three spots in the first tier.


    In this way, Mr. Shuijing also concealed his true strength. How strong was Mr. Shuijing? No one knew. Perhaps only the Emperor could discern it.


    Never let others know everything about you. Especially if everyone knows, the more mysterious you are, the safer you are. The more public you are, the more dangerous it bes. Zhongshan had known this for a long time, and Mr. Shuijing naturally understood it as well. So, what they showed to the outside world was only a limited extent of their abilities.


    "Congrattions, Mr. Shuijing," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Thank you, and congrattions to you too, Princess," Mr. Shuijing said immediately.


    "Mr. Shuijing, are you nning to challenge for a spot in the first tier?" Princess Qianyou asked with a smile.


    "Just giving it a try!" Mr. Shuijing modestly replied.


    As they walked towards other arenas, they conversed.


    "You''re challenging the first tier for my senior sister, aren''t you?" Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    Mr. Shuijing smiled wryly, but said nothing.


    "Actually, I''m still very curious to this day. Back then, you had never seen my senior sister, why did you search for her everywhere based on some rumors? Even after my senior sister became the queen, you were willing to serve in the Royal Pce. At that time, you hadn''t even met her, right?" Princess Qianyou asked in puzzlement.


    "No, I hadn''t," Mr. Shuijing shook his head.


    He hadn''t? He pursued her without ever meeting her? Only based on rumors?


    "I''ve investigated my senior sister''s history. She definitely didn''t know you before. Her memory wasn''t lost, nor was it sealed. Her life was very simple until she became the queen. Why did you develop feelings for her? Is there such a kind of love that doesn''t need to know the person before falling in love?" Princess Qianyou asked in confusion.


    "Hehe, please forgive me, Princess," Mr. Shuijing showed a wry smile.


    Seeing Mr. Shuijing''s expression, Princess Qianyou timely changed the topic. Meanwhile, Zhongshan looked somewhat strange. Just as Princess Qianyou said, Mr. Shuijing''s emotions were truly inexplicable, but were they really inexplicable?


    Not long after, they arrived at arger valley. Outside the valley, arge number of cultivators surrounded it, and formations were set up. Within the formation, General Qitian, Ge Lin, stood tall. He wore a golden crown with phoenix wings on his head, a suit of golden armor, and cloud-walking lotus shoes on his feet. In his hand was a dragon-patterned golden cudgel. With one hand holding the cudgel, General Qitian looked proud.


    Three Yuan Ying stage cultivators who were besieging him now had swollen faces, obviously hit by General Qitian''s cudgel.


    General Qitian inserted his golden cudgel into the ground.


    "Boom!" The valley shook, and the three men surrounding him all gripped their knives tightly.


    "Aren''t you admitting defeat yet?" General Qitian chuckled arrogantly.


    Seeing this, Zhongshan and his grouppletely understood. General Qitian had won; it was just a cat-and-mouse game.


    At this moment, another valley in the distance was crowded with numerous cultivators.


    For this match with no suspense, the five of them didn''t bother to look and quickly flew over.


    "Shuijing, how do you think Ge Lin has recovered this time?" Princess Qianyou asked as they flew.


    "Very strong, extremely strong, even beyond Shuijing''s abilities," Mr. Shuijing shook his head.


    "Oh? Mr. Shuijing actually gives such a high evaluation?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yes, Zhongshan, you haven''t seen Ge Lin''s dominance yet. I just witnessed it not long ago. This strength isn''t about martial prowess; his martial and magical powers have not yet reached their peak. I''m referring to his intelligence and pride. However, there''s one thing you should be able to see, his title," Mr. Shuijing smiled.


    "Title? Qitian? In the Great Luo Empire, there''s only one ''Tian,'' and that''s the current Emperor. Ge Lin is actually bestowed with the title of ''General Qitian.'' Isn''t that on par with the Emperor? This General Qitian, does he have any other secrets hidden from the public?" Zhongshan questioned.


    "No, I have a guess, but it''s not yet confirmed, so we''ll have to wait and see. However, Zhongshan, you don''t need to worry. Even if General Qitian is strong, he also has a weakness, and this weakness happens to be your greatest advantage," Mr. Shuijing said.


    "Oh? Mr. Shuijing, you jest," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "I''m speaking the truth. I don''t know how you developed this advantage, but even after striving for thousands of years, I''m still inferior to you, allowing you to always stand undefeated," Mr. Shuijing looked at Zhongshan solemnly.


    "Oh? What is it? What keeps Zhongshan undefeated?" Princess Qianyou asked curiously.


    Even Princess Qianyou didn''t know what Mr. Shuijing was referring to.


    "Mr. Shuijing jests. My cultivation is just a little higher, and my intellect is slightly sharper, that''s all. Mr. Shuijing must have mistaken," Zhongshan shook his head, deflecting the conversation.


    From Zhongshan''s tone, Mr. Shuijing could tell that Zhongshan was deliberately avoiding it. Zhongshan also knew what his greatest advantage was but refused to admit it.


    Princess Qianyou stared at Mr. Shuijing, wanting him to speak.


    In this situation, Mr. Shuijing could only smile bitterly and say, "Mr. Zhongshan''s advantage is not cultivation, not intellect, but Mr. Zhongshan refuses to admit it, so I won''t say more."


    Seeing Mr. Shuijing''s reluctance to speak, Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan with a hint of confusion. What other secrets did Zhongshan have? The more she understood, the more secrets he seemed to have?


    Absolute advantage? Of course, Zhongshan had an absolute advantage. It wasn''t his status, intelligence, Mo Yu Talismans, Red Lotus'' Vermilion Pearl, Shadow Body Technique, or even the Wolf n contract. Unexpectedly, Mr. Shuijing had seen through it. However, since it was revealed, let it be. Zhongshan would never admit it, and no one would believe it anyway. Besides, it was an intangible advantage.

 Chapter 266: Battle!

    <h4>Chapter 266: Battle!</h4>


    In the valley, where numerous cultivators gathered, everyone watched in astonishment as thepetition unfolded inside.


    As Zhongshan, Princess Qianyou, and the others approached, the match had already ended. In the valley, three powerful individuals were trapped, emitting a faint yellow light. A bald monk stood at the center.


    The monk sped his hands together, looking very young.


    "Golden Cicada wins."


    The bald monk emerged victorious, epting a jade que from the referee and flying slowly out of the valley, heading into the distance. Following closely behind him was another man dressed in monk''s robes, wearing a lotus monk hat and wielding a purple-golden ss Zen staff.


    "Princess, th-th-that''s Great Power Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva." Awe filled Er and his eyes widened in disbelief.


    Zhongshan also nced at the departing monk, the one holding the Zen staff. Great Power Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva. And the one who just won as "Golden Cicada," what kind of person was he?


    "Reincarnated Spirit Child?" Mr. Shuijing frowned.


    "No, reincarnated spirit children are usually protected by Arhats. How did this happen? Great Power Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva personally protecting him? What''s the origin of this Golden Cicada?" Princess Qianyou furrowed her brows.


    "A reincarnated spirit child who can be protected by a Bodhisattva has three possibilities: either he had a good rtionship with the Bodhisattva in his past life, or the Bodhisattva was entrusted by someone, or the past life of the reincarnated spirit child wasn''t a Bodhisattva but a Buddha." Mr. Shuijing exined with a furrowed brow.


    "People from the Blissful Pure Land are participating in the Great Luo Empire''s imperial examinations. I wonder if people from the other three sacrednds are also participating. This imperial examination is bing more and more interesting." Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    "Five dayster, the literary examination. Everything will be revealed then." Mr. Shuijing nodded.


    Five dayster, the literary examination would begin. After today''s literary examination, the top three would be decided.


    The location of the examination was the Literary Pavilion.


    The Literary Pavilion stood to the east of the ancient capital, with a long history. Although the Great Luo Empire had been established for eight thousand years, the history of the Literary Pavilion dated back to one hundred thousand years ago. It was an ancient sacred ce, a sanctuary for literati.


    The Literary Pavilion was a massive floating ind suspended in mid-air. On top of it was the pavilion itself, and around it floated a circle of one thousand smaller floating inds, arranged in a t ne surrounding the Literary Pavilion.


    Underneath the Literary Pavilion''s floating ind, one hundred thousand desks had been set up, spaced apart in arge circle, ready for the examinees to take the literary examination. And in front of each desk stood a cultivator, waiting to present the examination questions.


    Underneath the floating ind of the Literary Pavilion, one hundred thousand people had gathered, while above the floating ind, another thousand cultivators stood.


    These thousand cultivators could stand above the floating ind not because of their precious status, but because during the martial examination, they defeated three opponents of the same cultivation level, the one thousand geniuses who received the jade ques.


    Among them were Zhongshan, Mr. Shuijing, General Qitian, and Golden Cicada.


    The people stood neatly, waiting for the chief examiner to arrive.


    Zhongshan looked around the Literary Pavilion. The numerous buildings exuded a unique and ancient atmosphere, an aura of schrs. It was a feeling that could only be understood, not described.


    Around the Literary Pavilion, there were also many statues, each emitting a peculiar aura. There were a total of four thousand statues. Princess Qianyou had exined that each statue represented the top schr of each imperial examination, each one a person of great wisdom.


    After thepletion of each statue, a drop of essence blood would be infused into it using a secret method. As long as the Literary Pavilion existed, there would be a constant flow of schr''s aura into everyone''s body. This schr''s aura was also a type of luck, vast and powerful, and to some extent, it could cleanse one''s karma.


    Although most of the statues representing the past top schrs had passed away, they had never been removed. This was a form of spirit and a sign of heritage.


    Everyone patiently waited as all the assistant officials took their positions, awaiting the arrival of the chief examiner.


    The chief examiner was none other than the Grand Xuan King!


    As the examinees anxiously waited, there was a sudden movement ahead. Following the direction of the movement, everyone looked towards the distance, where a group of people was descending from the sky.


    Behind them were officials of the Great Luo Empire dressed in official robes, and at the forefront was a man exuding an aura of dominance.


    He wore a golden robe, exuding boundless nobility, with long ck hair flowing smoothly behind his head. His face was majestic, each step he took seemed to make his figure blur and reappear in the distance as if teleporting. Before long, he arrived at the Literary Pavilion.


    As he approached, Zhongshan could see clearly. The Grand Xuan King had a slightly protruding forehead, a majestic dragon-like aura, and a face full of dignity. His face was square-shaped, and his bright eyes each had two pupils. Double pupils? With just one nce, it seemed to shake one''s soul.


    Zhongshan''s heart tightened at the sight of the domineering eyes.


    The Grand Xuan King walked in front of the examinees and nced at everyone with a slight frown. He said in amanding tone, "Take your seats!"


    "Yes!" all the examinees immediately replied.


    Then, all the people on the square of the Literary Pavilion flew to the one thousand small floating inds surrounding it.


    Each small floating ind had already been set up with desks and ink brushes, waiting for the examinees to start writing.


    "The Emperor has issued the topic. Begin!"


    Although the Grand Xuan King''s voice was not loud, for some reason, it spread to all one thousand small floating inds and the ears of the one hundred thousand examinees below. To every ear, it sounded like a thunderp.


    Battle!


    The Emperor''s topic?


    Battle?


    A golden "battle" character, vigorous and forceful, slowly rose into the sky above the Literary Pavilion, visible to everyone. The character exuded a sense of fierce warfare, making everyone who saw it feel as if they were on a battlefield.


    Battle!


    All the examinees stared at therge "battle" character in the sky.


    Zhongshan furrowed his brows slightly, looking at the character above. In his heart, he couldn''t help but specte. With the five empires besieging the Great Luo Empire, had the Emperor truly be angry?


    Battle!


    An external war, to conquer or be conquered!


    Understanding the Emperor''s intentions would lead to greater sess.


    Literature? Zhongshan considered his own literary skills to be average. It was almost impossible for him to write earth-shattering masterpieces. Even if he could write some good verses, it didn''t necessarily mean he could outshine the one hundred thousand literary examinees. Were their literary skillscking?


    The literary examination wouldst for three hours, during which the examinees were required to write an article rted to the topic.


    Gradually, some people began to pick up their brushes.


    Zhongshan continued to furrow his brows, pondering. He recalled the most outstanding literary works from Earth, searching for words rted to "battle." Only those who had truly experienced warfare and could rte it to their own experiences could write such words, with slight modifications.


    Two hourster, Zhongshan finally figured out what to write. A poem, but would just one poem be enough?


    Grabbing the nearby brush, he looked at the best paper on the table, white jade paper!


    Taking a deep breath, he activated the Red Phoenix Heaven Scripture. His mental power quickly infused his eyes with focus, and suddenly, Zhongshan''s world once again became fragmented.


    The rules of heaven and earth, endless rules! Sometimes visible, sometimes hidden, floating and unpredictable.


    What Zhongshan needed to do was to write this poem on top of the rules of heaven and earth, to find their trajectories, and slowly write the poem ording to the way the rules of heaven and earth operated.


    However, the patterns of the rules of heaven and earth were endless. It was not easy to align the words with the rules of heaven and earth, especially since these rules were sometimes hidden, making them difficult to capture.


    Zhongshan patiently looked on. As he observed, his brush slowly descended towards the white jade paper. His speed was extremely slow, very careful, as he wrote the article he had thought of ording to the rules of heaven and earth.


    While Zhongshan was writing, many others had already finished writing their articles.


    Suddenly, to the east of the Literary Pavilion, Qitian Hou made the final stroke.


    The article wasplete!


    "Roar~"


    A golden dragon soared into the sky from Qitian Hou''s manuscript. The dragon''s shadow was not caused by any spell, but rather by his pride. An article filled with a prideful aura was born under Qitian Hou''s pen. However, this prideful aura was so powerful that even the paper couldn''t contain it. Condensing into form, it turned the energy poured into it by Qitian Hou into the form of a proud dragon, soaring into the sky.


    A vast golden dragon shadow hovered and danced above Qitian Hou''s manuscript, boundless and infinite.


    After finishing writing, everyone revealed expressions of infinite shock. Because countless people saw that above Qitian Hou''s article, a majestic golden dragon with a proud aura was intertwined with it, soaring endlessly.


    "Roar~"


    After circling for a while, the golden dragon left behind a long roar and plunged back into the manuscript. Suddenly, the manuscript on the white jade paper shone brightly.


    Qitian Hou looked pleased and nced around.


    "Congrattions, my lord! Congrattions, my lord! Qitian Hou''s literary style is majestic and proud like a dragon, invincible and bound to win," a court official ttered towards the Grand Xuan King in front of the Literary Pavilion.


    "Shut up!" the Grand Xuan King said coldly.


    The ttery hit a dead end, and the official immediately shut up and stood aside, not daring to say more.


    The Grand Xuan King continued to look around.


    Sure enough, right after Qitian Hou''s glory, on the western floating ind of the Literary Pavilion.


    Jin Chan made the final stroke. With this stroke, a torrential sound suddenly emanated��a roaring river, the cries of beasts and birds.


    "Gurgle~"


    "Roar~"


    "Singing~"


    From Jin Chan''s manuscript, a scene of mountains, rivers, birds, and beasts suddenly emerged. On that floating ind, endless mountain and river shadows appeared, with the great river surging like a memory crystal recording.


    Growingrger andrger, more and more, endless mountains and rivers were revealed, creating a magnificent picture of mountains and rivers, and a splendid article.


    That momentum,pared to Qitian Hou''s golden dragon shadow, was not inferior at all. It was endless and unbroken, making many examinees who had written their articles wide-eyed.

 Chapter 267: Heaven鈥檚 Thunder Strikes

    <h4>Chapter 267: Heaven''s Thunder Strikes</h4>


    The panoramic view of mountains and rivers, the magnificent scene of splendid mountains and rivers spreading in all directions, infected everyone. Finally, after a long sigh, it was once again absorbed into the white jade manuscript. At this moment, the white jade manuscript also emitted a greenish light, echoing the golden manuscript of Qitian Hou to the east.


    Qitian Hou, with his proud and majestic war dragon!


    Jin Chan, with his magnificent panorama of mountains and rivers!


    The two were equally matched. In the past, it would have been astonishing for just one such article to appear in the imperial examinations. Now, unexpectedly, there were two?


    Examinees looked at Qitian Hou and Jin Chan with great admiration. Neither of them showed any arrogance. Jin Chan sped his hands together calmly, while Qitian Hou looked to the north and south of the Literary Pavilion.


    To the north was Zhongshan, and to the south was Shuijing Master.


    Sitting in front of the Literary Pavilion, the Grand Xuan King remained extremely calm, patiently waiting for the end of the three hours.


    Those who had finished writing stood beside their desks, examining their own articles and then looking in the direction of others.


    At this moment, to the south, Shuijing Master also made his final stroke.


    As he finished, a wave of pride surged from his eyes. This surge of pride seemed to make everyone who saw his eyes feel ashamed.


    However, this pride came and went quickly, unlike Gu Lin''s constant state of pride.


    Seeing this surge of pride, Gu Lin, who was on a distant floating ind, narrowed his eyes slightly, showing a hint of surprise.


    And just as the final stroke waspleted...


    "Boom, boom, boom..."


    The Grand Xuan King quickly stood up, looking towards the source of the booming sound.


    It was the Literary Pavilion. Suddenly, countless statues of past schrs around the Literary Pavilion began to tremble. Not all of them, but most of the statues trembled, as if sighing for a world-shocking article.


    The Grand Xuan King looked over. These statues were all former chunin champions who had passed away, statues of chunin champions from past dynasties.


    Living champions could absorb the schr''s energy by using their own statues in the Literary Pavilion. However, the schr''s energy of the deceased champions continuously immersed in the statues, unable to be absorbed. Plus, with the blood drops of the former chunin champions, they became a kind of schrly spirit.


    After Shuijing Master wrote his article, all of the statues suddenly trembled.


    "Hum~"


    One statue suddenly trembled lightly. Then, from within the statue, a huge shadow suddenly emerged. In the eyes of everyone, the immense shadow rushed towards Shuijing Master''s article, flew over, and then plunged into it.


    "Hum~"


    ...More and more statues, more and more shadows, all headed straight for Shuijing Master''s floating ind. The momentum was so strong that even some people who were writing articles suddenly stopped and looked at Shuijing Master with great shock.


    What was this? Most people here knew that it was the boundless schrly energy. Shuijing Master''s article actually moved these stone statues. The statues all offered their own schrly energy, which was all poured into Shuijing Master''s article and absorbed by him.


    With overwhelming momentum, this was the article that shook heaven and earth. This was the world-shocking article that made thousands of schrs bow down?


    After witnessing this scene, everyone knew that Shuijing Master had won.


    At leastpared to the articles of Qitian Hou and Jin Chan, Shuijing Master''s article was much more imposing. Thousands of schrs bowing down��what kind of concept was that? It made everyone gaping in disbelief at Shuijing Master above. Who was he, exactly? How could he make thousands of schrs bow down? Did he willingly contribute the schrly energy collected over tens of thousands of years?


    Qitian Hou looked at Shuijing Master, his eyes gleaming with insight. This Shuijing Master really knew how to y the game. Who would have thought that writing an article could make thousands of schrs feel ashamed?


    "My lord, wasn''t this person once in your mansion? I never expected that besides Qitian Hou''s remarkable article, even a random gentleman from your mansion would be so extraordinary," an official said to the Grand Xuan King.


    However, the Grand Xuan King looked at Shuijing Master in the distance, a faint smile appearing at the corner of his mouth, tinged with contempt.


    Jin Chan also looked at Shuijing Master in surprise. His previousposure turned into astonishment. He took a deep breath and sighed deeply.


    As for the other examinees, they had no hope left for the three top scorers, the first ce, second ce, and third ce. These three, regardless of who they were, had always been top talents in the past. Unexpectedly, this time in the imperial examination, three powerhouses appeared at once, with profound and vast articles.


    Qitian Hou, with his proud and majestic war dragon!


    Jin Chan, with his magnificent panorama of mountains and rivers!


    Shuijing Master, with his article that made thousands of schrs bow down in admiration!


    Most people had finished writing, with only a few still in the process, including Zhongshan, who was giving his all.


    With his mind force entering his eyes, the world of rules shattered. Zhongshan wrote one stroke at a time, as if he found it incredibly difficult��


    "Full of red!"


    Angry waves surge, standing by the railing, in the drizzle''s pause. Looking up, howling at the sky, with a heart full of passion. The glory of Daluo is nothing but dust, eight hundred miles of clouds and moon. Don''t wait idly, for youth to fade away, leaving only sorrow!


    To tear apart the shame of the covenant, and when will the hatred of the subjects be extinguished? Driving thousands of tigers, breaking through the sky''s city. With a strong will, feasting on the flesh of enemies,ughing and drinking the blood of the in. Starting anew, to tidy up the new mountains and rivers, toward the heavenly gate!


    Zhongshan wrote stroke by stroke. This adaptation of "Full of Red" might not exceed others in literary style, but his handwriting was unmatched.


    Everyone had high expectations for Shuijing Master, believing he would definitely be the top scorer. However, Shuijing Master looked at Zhongshan. Because Shuijing Master had not been able to see through Zhongshan so far. Zhongshan was not old, but he exuded a strangeness, a peculiarity. In this imperial examination, Shuijing Master''s biggest opponent was actually Zhongshan.


    Still writing?


    At that moment, Zhongshan''s final stroke fell.


    As it waspleted, a burst of red light suddenly emanated from the paper Zhongshan wrote on, once again catching everyone''s attention.


    Another one? Another world-shocking masterpiece was born?


    Red light? What red light?


    The Grand Xuan King turned his head to look at Zhongshan''s direction. Zhongshan put down his brush, and the red light soared into the sky, as if it were filled with endless blood.


    "Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh..."


    Suddenly, a strong wind rose. Where Zhongshan stood on the floating ind, fierce winds blew, and the sky, illuminated by the red light, suddenly became overcast, with endless dark clouds gathering slowly, directly above Zhongshan''s floating ind.


    The dark clouds rotated slowly within the red light, swirling around the center.


    A powerful force descended, and arge amount of fierce wind blew, making it seem like the other examinees couldn''t even hold their pens. A supreme might was pressing down.


    "Crackle, crackle, crackle..."


    In the dark clouds above Zhongshan''s head, arge number of lightning bolts gathered, growing stronger and stronger, as if they were about to strike directly down, as if they were about to destroy the floating ind where Zhongshan was, or even to strike Zhongshan dead, no, to destroy the article Zhongshan had written.


    The increasing pressure was causing some of the less experienced cultivators to struggle for breath. The strong winds blew, as if they were about to blow away the floating inds around them.


    Everyone was dumbfounded, looking up at the sky with wide eyes, filled with extreme incredulity.


    Who was that person? What did he write? How could it be that even the heavens couldn''t tolerate it? Was it really going to be struck down by lightning?


    What did he write to invoke heavenly wrath?


    Everything in the sky, everything around, was telling them that Zhongshan''s article should not exist in the world, that it was not allowed by the heavens and the earth, and that it should be destroyed. The moment the article waspleted, the invisible rules of the heavens and the earth were engraved, which was an offense to the authority of the heavens and needed to be destroyedpletely.


    Shuijing Master stared wide-eyed at Zhongshan in the opposite direction. Was this Zhongshan''s strength? How could this be possible? Why was this happening? The heavens couldn''t tolerate it? Struck by lightning? Was there a mistake?


    All the examinees looked at the increasingly gathering dark clouds in the sky, their hearts filled with uncertainty. What should they do? Should they leave or stay? They were still in the middle of the exam!


    Some examinees were even stunned, their brushes falling from their hands onto their own articles, destroying their own work.


    Zhongshan was also in a state of frustration.


    Was this necessary? Just writing an article, was it worth such a fuss?


    Looking at the vast heavenly might above him, Zhongshan felt frustrated and wondered what to do. Should he wait for the Mo Yu Talisman to protect him automatically? But he didn''t know how many times it could protect him. If it was only once likest time, then he would be in trouble soon.


    As he felt the threat from above while looking at the "Full of Red" in front of him, Zhongshan''s facial muscles twitched.


    "Boom..."


    The clouds that were illuminated by the red light finally couldn''t hold back any longer. A huge thunder column struck down fiercely towards Zhongshan''s article.


    The momentum was as thick as a water tank, and the purple lightning seemed as if it wouldpletely destroy Zhongshan''s article.


    The sky all around was already covered by dark clouds. As the purple lightning struck down, arge amount of lightning poured down, a thunderstorm engulfing the entire sky. This thunderstorm was muchrger than Zhongshan''s own Thunderstorm technique. The entire examination hall of the Wen Yuan Pavilion was about to suffer.


    Because Zhongshan had written an article that invoked heavenly wrath, an article that should not exist in the world, an article that was not tolerated by the heavens and the earth.


    The pouring rain of lightning was spectacr. Not only in the Wen Yuan Pavilion, but also in the distance, countless people saw the thunderstorm in the Wen Yuan Pavilion. What was happening over there?


    "Princess, is there a fight inside?" A Da asked with his mouth wide open, looking at Princess Qian You beside him, his tone filled with disbelief.


    Those with strong cultivation might be able to protect themselves, but those with weaker cultivation were desperate!


    No one could have imagined that they would suffer heavenly punishment because of an article, that they would be struck dead by heavenly lightning!

 Chapter 268: A Palm Shatters

    <h4>Chapter 268: A Palm Shatters</h4>


    The sky was filled with dark clouds, illuminated by shes of lightning. Under the pressure of heavenly might, the strong winds below made everything seem like the end of the world, with the heavens and earth copsing.


    A purple lightning bolt, as thick as a water tank, seemed like the leader of a myriad of troops, descending straight down. In an instant, countless lightning bolts followed suit, pouring down like water from a breached river, erupting like an endless volcanic eruption. The heavens were angry.


    In that moment, panic spread throughout the entire Wen Yuan Pavilion. Countless examinees showed infinite fear. They had onlye for a simple exam, so why were they facing heavenly retribution?


    Those with lower cultivation immediately summoned their flying swords and quickly fled, while those who couldn''t escape in time quickly formed protective barriers around themselves. Some even took out various magic treasures, preparing to withstand the heavenly thunder.


    They both admired and resented Zhongshan for writing an article that was not tolerated by the heavens and the earth. Because of Zhongshan, everyone had witnessed this masterpiece of the ages, but because of Zhongshan, their lives were now in danger.


    "To hear the Way in the morning and die in the evening is enough!"


    For the few who were brave enough to face such a trial, they had no regrets even if they perished. But for most, they hoped to both learn and live.


    The Wen Yuan Pavilion below suddenly descended into chaos. The elegant demeanor of the examinees was nowhere to be seen. Elegance? What use was elegance when one''s life was at stake?


    Above the Wen Yuan Pavilion, many of those who had been on the floating inds were now visible. These people had each defeated three opponents of the same level. Apart from Zhongshan, who was a peculiar case, most of them were super experts.


    Although the heavenly thunder was vast and mighty, in the eyes of these people, it was not necessarily a death sentence. Moreover, the primary target of the countless lightning bolts was Zhongshan and his article, which the heavens could not tolerate.


    The examinees above were more curious about what Zhongshan had written. What kind of amazing article could provoke heavenly wrath and thunder?


    In an instant, the trio of Qi Tianhou, Jinch��n, and Shuijing all turned their gazes towards Zhongshan.


    Qi Tianhou clenched his fists, a hint of battle intent shing in his eyes. It seemed that he had underestimated Zhongshan before.


    Jinch��n sped his hands together and recited scriptures with closed eyes, apparently not expecting such an oue. His "Splendid Landscape of Mountains and Rivers" seemed far from enoughpared to this heavenly punishment!


    Shuijing Master stared at Zhongshan, his brow furrowing slightly, a hint of incredulity shing in his eyes. How old was Zhongshan? Just over a hundred years old? This young age, how could it be?


    Shuijing Master regarded Zhongshan as the main rival in this literary examination because Zhongshan always seemed mysterious and unpredictable. But even if he couldn''t figure Zhongshan out, Shuijing Master was infinitely confident in his own article. No one could surpass him, not even Zhongshan. Although Shuijing Master was extremely modest on the surface, in his heart, he was proud and confident. Perhaps only that princess was his Achilles'' heel. As for how Zhongshan''s article was, although he had thought it might surpass others'', it couldn''t possibly surpass his own.


    Zhongshan''s article was written, and the might of the heavens was unpredictable. To move the heavens was a sign of a good article, but to provoke the heavens like this... Was it still a good article? Even if one cursed at the heavens, the heavens wouldn''t be angry. But what did Zhongshan write to anger the heavens like this?


    Weaklings fled in all directions, chaotic and panicked. The strong remained vignt, but also calm.


    In this moment of calmness, no one was moreposed than Zhongshan.


    In the eyes of everyone, Zhongshan was truly bizarre.


    Gold Core Sixth Stage, most people could see this. With just that one purple lightning bolt, it could st him into dust. In this moment, if it were anyone else, wouldn''t they run for their lives?


    But not Zhongshan. Instead, he stood proudly in the wind, his clothes billowing as the strong winds blew past him.


    Zhongshan remained fearless because he already knew the oue. The Red Phoenix Lotus remained pink, unchanged. That meant there was no threat. Surely, there would be strong individuals from all directions to shield him from the lightning. Even if not, standing here, the lightning would just veer off course.


    With nothing to fear for himself, what did Zhongshan have to be afraid of? The top spot was already his. At this moment, standing firm in his principles was better than cowering in fear. At the very least, it would make others unable to fathom his intentions, and that was a good thing! The less people understood about him, the safer he would be. Mystery was always the best protection.


    Facing the thunderstorm like the end of the world, Zhongshan remained calm. Standing on the floating ind, he faced the wind with a furious gaze towards the heavens.


    In the eyes of everyone, although they found Zhongshan''s behavior strange, their admiration for him only increased. To face the heavenly thunder without changing his expression! Most people couldn''t do that.


    As Zhongshan''s article''s red light soared into the sky, the Grand Xuan King''s gaze also turned towards him. In his four eyes, a faint silver light shimmered, and he looked at Zhongshan with slight surprise.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s unwavering demeanor, the Grand Xuan King couldn''t help but marvel. To remain so calm even as the thunder descended, not even blinking an eye, he was truly a remarkable individual!


    Two years ago, to manipte the eight million soldiers of the Great Yu Dynasty with such a "weak" physique, it seemed the rumors weren''t baseless.


    As the heavenly thunder roared closer, the Grand Xuan King, as the chief examiner, naturally had the responsibility to maintain order in the examination hall.


    Looking up at the sky, a silver light shone from his four eyes.


    "Hmph..."


    With a light snort, the Grand Xuan King made his move.


    With a slight wave of his left hand, everyone in the Wen Yuan Pavilion felt a sudden halt, as if even their hearts stopped beating.


    The wind around them ceased.


    With a stop of his left hand, the wind ceased, while his right hand rose towards the heavens.


    "Hum..."


    Everyone saw a golden palm shadow detach from the Grand Xuan King''s right hand and fly upwards. When it reached a height of three hundred meters, suddenly...


    "Boom!"


    A deafening roar drowned out the endless thunder. Everyone saw that the golden palm shadow seemed to pause suddenly, as if it was obstructed by something, stopped in its tracks.


    No, it wasn''t stopped, but the golden palm shadow had formed a gap!


    Where the palm stopped, a parallel cut appeared, intercepting the palm and isting all the descending lightning.


    As the golden palm struck, a vast and surging force seemed to erupt from where it stopped, like the ocean surging, crashing into the sky. Suddenly, thepressed airflow mixed with the force of the Grand Xuan King''s palm turned into a golden giant wave that surged towards the sky.


    "Boom!"


    With a deafening roar, all the lightning, covering the sky like the end of the world, waspletely dispersed by this golden giant wave, continuing to surge towards the sky.


    "Boom!"


    Under the immense force, the endless dark clouds and thunderclouds were shattered by this palm force.


    The sky remained as dark as ever, but at this moment, the clouds were no longer endless. Instead, numerous cracks appeared suddenly, revealing some light. In this pitch-ck sky, it seemed like an enormous spiderweb had suddenly appeared, looking incredibly shocking.


    Gradually, the dark clouds in the sky seemed to yield, dispersing slowly.


    Everyone looked up at the sky, witnessing the immense thunderclouds that had been shattered by a single palm? Just one palm?


    The Grand Xuan King?


    All eyes turned to the Grand Xuan King, this person who possessed unparalleled strength, the Crown Prince of the Great Luo Dynasty, the Grand Xuan Crown Prince, the Grand Xuan King!


    At this moment, everyone looked at the Grand Xuan King with awe. This was absolute power, iparable strength. The top existence in the world.


    Watching the Grand Xuan King shatter the thunderclouds with one palm, Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    The Crown Prince of the Great Luo Dynasty? Was this the strength of the Crown Prince? Too powerful, too formidable. If the Crown Prince was already this strong, then what about the Emperor?


    The number one figure in the Great Luo Dynasty, how powerful was the Emperor?


    The ancient capital was indeed a hidden dragon and a crouching tiger. How many more surprises would it hold?


    Qitian Marquis looked at the Grand Xuan King, a faint smile ying on his lips, but there wasn''t much admiration. Water Mirror Master, to the south, furrowed his brows and took a deep breath, his eyes filled with uncertainty. To the west, Jin Chan took a deep breath, watching intently.


    That one palm was destined to remain in the hearts of most people. It imprinted the invincible image of the Grand Xuan King.


    The Grand Xuan King shattered the thunderclouds with one palm, showing no surprise in his eyes, as if it were an ordinary urrence. He turned his head and nced at the hourss not far away.


    "The time is up." The Grand Xuan King''s voice was not very loud, but it eerily echoed in everyone''s ears, sounding like a thunderous explosion in their ears. After the event of shattering the thunderclouds with one palm just now, his voice seemed even more imposing.


    At this moment, those who hadn''t finished writing no longerined. Seeing this extraordinary event, if anyone stillined about not having enough time, they would only be looked down upon by others.


    Time was up, and everyone put down their brushes. Among the more than one hundred thousand essays, four of them emitted a faint glow.


    To the east, Qitian Marquis''s essay shimmered with golden light.


    To the south, Water Mirror Master''s essay emitted a white glow.


    To the west, Jin Chan''s essay emanated a cyan light.


    To the north, Zhongshan''s essay glowed with red light.


    In the past, to produce such extraordinary works in one imperial examination was already extremely rare, but this time, four such works were produced. Truly, talents were emerging one after another in the Great Luo Dynasty''s golden age.


    The top three rankings, the champion, role model, and top schr, were already uncontested. Even if someone dared to contest them, they would be too embarrassed to admit it.


    The Grand Xuan King''s expression was solemn. After the time was up, instead of having the officials collect everyone''s essays, he inspected each one personally, as if he were selecting something.


    Everyone patiently waited until the Grand Xuan King had inspected everyone''s essays before he spoke again, "His Majesty has issued an edict."

 Chapter 269: The Imperial Edict

    <h4>Chapter 269: The Imperial Edict</h4>


    As the Grand Xuan King spoke, a golden imperial edict suddenly appeared in his hand.


    For cultivators who had not yet entered the Heavenly Dynasty, there was no need to kneel and bow. As for those who held positions in the court, it was optional.


    Everyone bowed slightly and chanted, "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live!"


    "The Emperor has issued an edict. The Great Yu Dynasty has torn up the alliance agreement, acted treacherously, and invaded the Great Light Dynasty''s territory. The two dynasties are birds of a feather, now facing ruin. The Dynasty of China has dared to invade the Heavenly Dynasty, an act that is intolerable by both heaven and earth. Therefore, the Grand Xuan King is appointed as the Grand Commander of the Southern Capital to guard the southern border. The newly selected outstanding candidates of the imperial examination will be dispatched to the southern border as well, to eliminate the enemies and destroy the two dynasties!" The Grand Xuan King announced.


    "Long live, long live, long live!" All the candidates echoed in unison.


    Go out? This was a great opportunity to make contributions. Although the top three candidates could serve as officials in the court, even the champion would only hold a minor position. If they could achieve meritorious deeds on the front lines, when they returned, they would definitely surpass their current status.


    Zhongshan frowned as he looked at the Grand Xuan King. No wonder the other three princes had gone to the front lines, while the Grand Xuan King had stayed behind. The other princes were only facing one dynasty, while the Grand Xuan King was facing two. In such a predicament, he had been waiting for this batch of talents from the imperial examination, a group of reinforcements.


    After receiving the imperial edict, the Grand Xuan King looked at all the candidates.


    "You have four hours of free time. After four hours, my people will quickly inspect your examination papers and select the candidates I need. Then, you will depart immediately. As for your examination papers and your rankings, they will be decided by His Majesty shortly. Your names will be inscribed in the ''Great Luo Gold List'' and your achievements will be proimed to the world. Your rankings in the top three will be recorded in the Great Luo Shrine!" The Grand Xuan King dered loudly.


    "Yes!" All the candidates responded promptly.


    "Now go out. Return in four hours. You can bring up to ten attendants with you." The Grand Xuan Kingmanded.


    "Yes!" All the candidates replied immediately.


    Then, they flew away from the vicinity of the Wen Yuan Pavilion.


    Zhongshan swiftly flew out of therge area around the Wen Yuan Pavilion, breaking through a region of clouds and fog, until he finally reached the outside.


    "Master," came Adai''s voice from afar.


    Princess Qianyou, Adai, and A''er were standing not far away on a mountain peak, waiting.


    "Let''s go find a secluded ce," Zhongshan said immediately.


    "Yes." Everyone nodded immediately.


    Soon, they returned to Princess Qianyou''s mansion.


    Princess Qianyou''s mansion, the Orchid Pce!


    "Master, it''s just as we suspected before. The Grand Xuan King didn''t leave and has taken on the role of the chief examiner. He intends to take away this group of talented individuals to reinforce the southern war," Princess Qianyou frowned and said.


    "Yes, the examination topic this year involves war. In the Emperor''s edict, there is also themand to destroy the two dynasties. This isn''t about defending the southern border, it''s about war, about destruction. They want to annihte the two dynasties," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Will Master be chosen?" Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan with some reluctance. Although she had guessed the oue, she still felt reluctant.


    "Perhaps I will be chosen," Zhongshan admitted with a nod.


    "Did Master perform very well in the examination?" Princess Qianyou asked with reluctance.


    "My article was quite remarkable, provoking the wrath of heaven. It should be enough to be chosen," Zhongshan said with a bitter smile.


    "Master, was it you who attracted the endless thunder light near the Wen Yuan Pavilion earlier?" Adai looked extremely incredulous.


    "It was just luck," Zhongshan nodded.


    "Hiss~~~~~~"


    Ah Da and Ah Er both gasped in disbelief. This was too incredible. If they didn''t trust Zhong Shan immensely, they wouldn''t believe it even if they were beaten to death. Cultivating to the sixth level of the Golden Core, writing an article, and summoning heavenly wrath?


    However, Princess Qianyou looked at Zhong Shan with a trace of tranquility in her eyes. It seemed that Zhong Shan''s article attracting divine punishment wasn''t too difficult for her to ept, because this was the man she admired.


    "Master, you should go. I''ll have Ah Da apany you," Princess Qianyou said immediately.


    After Princess Qianyou finished speaking, Ah Da and Ah Er stood aside, no longer saying anything, quietly waiting.


    "Take Ah Da with me? What about you, Princess?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "It''s fine, I still have Ah Er. Besides, I''ll only stay in the Ancient Capital recently. I also need to make a breakthrough." Princess Qianyou said.


    Looking at Ah Da, then at Princess Qianyou, everything was understood without words. Zhong Shan nodded slightly and said, "Alright."


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s concise agreement, Princess Qianyou suddenly smiled knowingly, feeling extremely relieved in her heart.


    Turning her head, Princess Qianyou looked at Ah Da and said, "Ah Da, your task during this period is to protect the Master, ensuring his safety at all times, without fail."


    "Yes, unless Ah Da dies, if anyone wants to harm the Master, they must step over Ah Da''s corpse." Ah Da said solemnly.


    "Okay," Princess Qianyou nodded in satisfaction.


    Then, Ah Da slowly walked behind Zhong Shan.


    Princess Qianyou looked at Zhong Shan again and said affectionately, "Master, when I make a breakthrough, I''lle to the front lines to see you."


    "Okay," Zhong Shan simply nodded. Seeing Princess Qianyou''s expression, he felt a string in his heart being plucked for some reason.


    "Be sure to stay safe," Princess Qianyou naturally reminded. Princess Qianyou didn''t notice that at this moment, she was no longer the extremely shrewd Princess Qianyou from before, but rather a worried wife seeing her husband off.


    "I will, you take care of yourself too. I''ll wait for the news of your victory." Zhong Shan said.


    "I believe in you," Princess Qianyou nodded with a smile.


    The two didn''t say much more. The phrase "I believe in you" contained everything.


    "Princess, I''m leaving," Zhong Shan said.


    "Okay," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Then, Zhong Shan turned and walked out of the Orchid Pavilion, with Ah Da following closely behind. Zhong Shan didn''t look back, and Princess Qianyou didn''t see him off either. She just watched Zhong Shan leave step by step. It wasn''t until Zhong Shan''s figure disappeared from her sight that she snapped out of her daze after a while.


    After leaving the Orchid Pavilion, Ah Da dispersed the clouds while Zhong Shan directed, quickly stopping at amercial district.


    In front of the Ji Fan Pavilion.


    Figures bustled about. Arge number of customers waited, while many shop assistants served them. Ji Fan Pavilion''s shopkeeper, Zheng, looked satisfied as he watched the continuously increasing sales. At this moment, Zhong Shan''s arrival caused Zheng to pause slightly.


    "Mr. Zhong, long time no see. Thanks to youst time, Ji Fan Pavilion has had such good sales. What do you need this time? I''ll prepare it for you immediately." Zheng''s eyes brightened as he approached.


    "One hundred butterfly firecrackers," Zhong Shan smiled faintly.


    "Oh, what a coincidence, I happen to have them here. Ji Fan Pavilion can have such good business thanks to Mr. Zhong''s promotion. These one hundred butterfly firecrackers are a gift from our shop." Zheng said with understanding.


    "Alright, thank you," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Then, with a slight touch of their storage bracelets, the one hundred butterfly firecrackers entered Zhong Shan''s bracelet.


    With a faint smile, Zhong Shan said, "Farewell!"


    "Farewell, next time you have an order, juste directly to me!" Zheng said with a smile.


    Zhong Shan nodded and flew away into the distance with Ah Da.


    Watching Zhong Shan and Ah Da slowly fly away, Zheng''s previous smile faded, his brows furrowed slightly. He immediately entered the Ji Fan Pavilion and went into a secret room, using a formation to iste his divine consciousness, not letting outsiders know what was happening inside.


    In the blink of an eye, Zheng held a jade slip in his hand. He read it carefully.


    At first, Zheng frowned, then his brows rxed, and a look of surprise appeared on his face. "My foster father has such far-reaching ns. War profits? Yes, war profits. It seems I also need to go to the front lines."


    "Master, why did you buy firecrackers?" Ah Da asked curiously.


    "In all things, one must be prepared. Firecrackers may be small, but they have their uses. Everything has its purpose; the key is whether you have found where to use it. What may not seem useful now may prove otherwise in the future," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Okay," Ah Da nodded.


    During the following period, Zhong Shan also collected some peculiar items in the city. Ah Da didn''t understand, so he stopped asking.


    Four hours passed.


    Zhong Shan returned to the Wen Yuan Pavilion with Ah Da.


    Countless candidates gathered at the Wen Yuan Pavilion again. When all the candidates left, the Great Xuan King selected arge number of officials from among the officials of the Ancient Capital and began to quickly investigate those articles. For the good articles, the Great Xuan King personally reviewed them.


    The Great Xuan King''s analytical ability was extremely strong. With just one nce, he could discern their quality.


    In four hours, roughly four hundred people were selected. Among them, three hundred were from the original circle of the Wen Yuan Pavilion, while only one hundred were chosen from the hundred thousand candidates below.


    Four hundred people may seem few, butpared to the million-strong army they would face next, these four hundred were as inconspicuous as a drop of water in the sea. However, these four hundred were not ordinary foot soldiers but individuals who held significant power.


    In mid-air, officials used spells to conjure these four hundred people out of thin air.


    Among the four hundred slots, the first ce was Zhong Shan, the second was Shui Jing, the third was Qi Tianhou, the fourth was Jin Chan...


    The four hundred selected individuals flew up one by one, each with their own entourage, heading towards thergest floating ind, the Wen Yuan Pavilion.


    The Great Xuan King, apanied by a dozen guards, watched as over a thousand people flew up.


    "Alright, the top three hundred have been selected. Although there are less than a hundred slots left, I know you are all extraordinary individuals. Now, follow me to the battlefield. Those who made it to the top three hundred will receive official orders from the court. For those who didn''t, I will temporarily grant you the authority to lead troops. Go make contributions on the battlefield," the Great Xuan King said solemnly.


    "Yes," everyone immediately responded.


    Just then, from the east of the Wen Yuan Pavilion, a massive figure suddenly flew over.


    A ship, a gigantic golden ship, no, it should be a battleship��a massive golden battleship measuring eight thousand meters in length.


    This was a Divine Ship, arge-scale treasure fortress in the sky. Zhong Shan had only heard of it but hadn''t seen it with his own eyes.

 Chapter 270: Becoming the Commander-in-Chief

    <h4>Chapter 270: Bing the Commander-in-Chief</h4>


    The gigantic golden battleship slowly flew to the front of the Wen Yuan Pavilion, with numerous soldiers standing on top. This super treasure, eight thousand meters long, had many buildings on top, adorned with exquisite decorations and elegant structures. It also had istion formations to ensure no mutual disturbance.


    "Let''s go!" the Great Xuan King said.


    Taking a step, the Great Xuan King stepped onto the Divine Ship. Everyone nced at each other and followed suit.


    Stepping onto the Divine Ship.


    The Great Xuan King looked at everyone and said, "Find your own lodgings. When we arrive at the Great Xuan City, I will inform you."


    "Yes!" everyone immediately responded.


    Then, the Great Xuan King entered thergest pce.


    Meanwhile, the others also began selecting their amodations.


    Zhong Shan didn''t rush to choose but observed everyone.


    Behind Qi Tianhou was a ck-robed man named Ling Feng, ording to the information Ah Er had gathered. He was assigned by the Great Xuan King to protect Qi Tianhou, and his cultivation level was at the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    Mr. Shui Jing was alone and didn''t need bodyguards. His own cultivation was at the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    As for Jin Chan, he was alone too. The Great Weitian Dragon Bodhisattva who used to protect him was not by his side.


    Zhong Shan sized up these three individuals, and they also looked at him in the same manner.


    Qi Tianhou led Ling Feng with a sneer and walked towards a pce in the distance. Jin Chan sped his hands together, nodded slightly, and walked away.


    "Mr. Zhong Shan, please," Mr. Shui Jing immediately said with a smile.


    "Mr. Shui Jing, please," Zhong Shan replied.


    At this moment, a huge protective barrier suddenly appeared outside the Divine Ship, enveloping it like a giant egg. Slowly rising into the air, once it reached a certain height, it elerated towards the south, faster and faster. The people on the Divine Ship didn''t feel it, but in the eyes of the experts in the Ancient Capital, it soon became just a streak of light.


    A streak of light, like a shooting star, vanished in the boundless south.


    Meanwhile, on a mountain peak near the Wen Yuan Pavilion, two figures slowly emerged.


    "Ah Er, let''s go," Princess Qianyou sighed softly.


    "Yes, Princess," Ah Er responded.


    Forty dayster.


    The Divine Ship finally came to a slow stop. Ahead was a massive city.


    Standing in front of the Divine Ship, everyone could see the majestic city, even more magnificent than the unparalleled city they had seen before. Three huge golden characters floated above the city tower.


    Da Xuan City.


    Named after the Great Xuan King, this city was situated in the hearnd of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, serving as a fortress. From here, all other cities could be fully supplied. It was like unfolding a fan, with Da Xuan City resembling the tail of the fan, and other cities positioned at the tips of the fan bones.


    The Divine Ship stopped outside Da Xuan City and entered.


    "The Great Xuan King has ordered everyone to enter the Xuan Hall," an official ran over from behind the crowd and announced.


    The Xuan Hall was thergest pce on the Divine Ship, where the Great Xuan King resided.


    The attendants waited outside while the four hundred selected individuals entered the Xuan Hall.


    Inside the Xuan Hall was an extremely spacious chamber.


    At the northernmost end was a military table, on whichy about fifty tiger seals and some letters.


    The Great Xuan King sat behind the military table, looking solemnly at the group in front of him.


    Zhong Shan, Shui Jing, Qi Tianhou, and Jin Chan stood at the forefront, with no one vying to stand ahead. This was the result of their articles during the examination, as well as the respect everyone had for these four great talents.


    "We pay our respects to Your Majesty," everyone said simultaneously.


    "Coming to the Southern Border, you should all understand the purpose��overthrowing the two major dynasties. The examination articles only represent part of it; more importantly, it''s about your abilities. Zhong Shan," the Great Xuan King called out.


    "Here!" Zhong Shan immediately stepped forward.


    "Although the final results of the examination still need to be decided by His Majesty, in my opinion, you should rank first. You have had contact with the Great Yu Dynasty, and the Unparalleled City has been lost. I appoint you as themander of the First Battalion of the Great Xuan Army, leading two hundred thousand troops to swiftly advance to the Unparalleled City, gather the remaining forces there, and recapture the Unparalleled City," the Great Xuan King said solemnly.


    Two hundred thousand? Only two hundred thousand?


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said in a deep voice, "I obey."


    With a gentle gesture, the Great Xuan King took out a tiger seal and a scroll letter from the table.


    "This is the tiger seal of the First Battalion, along with the appointment letter. Go out immediately; someone will take you to the First Battalion of the Great Xuan Army," the Great Xuan King said solemnly.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan responded, then gently took the tiger seal and the appointment letter.


    Taking hold of the tiger seal and the appointment letter, Zhong Shan immediately left the Xuan Hall. Inside, the Great Xuan King continued to appoint others.


    "General Zhong, I will guide you to the First Battalion of the Great Xuan Army," a person immediately came forward from outside.


    "Mmm," Zhong Shan nodded. Ah Da also followed.


    The three of them rode on clouds and flew out of the Divine Ship, heading towards the east of the Great Xuan City, towards a distant mountain valley.


    Meanwhile, not far away, Qi Tianhou and Ling Feng were also brought over by another officer.


    Seeing Zhong Shan, Qi Tianhou gave a cold smile and then ignored him.


    In the valley, there were numerous tents, and many soldiers were training.


    "Haha~~~" Several martial arts arenas were filled with soldiers wielding theirrge swords, shing fiercely, their qi rampant, cutting through the air.


    "Release~~~" In another area, countless soldiers shot out Breaking Qi Arrows endlessly, like a rain of locusts, crazily shooting towards a mountain wall. On the wall, there were numerous targets, and arrows pierced into the bullseyes. The targets emitted a faint red light, indicating that they were special targets.


    Just as Zhong Shan and Qi Tianhou''s groups arrived at the valley, two men in armor flew up.


    "Who goes there?" the two generals called out simultaneously.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan and Qi Tianhou each took out a tiger seal.


    "Seen the General," the two generals said respectively to Zhong Shan and Qi Tianhou.


    "Where is the First Battalion of the Great Xuan Army?" Zhong Shan asked in a deep voice.


    "Where is the Second Battalion of the Great Xuan Army?" Qi Tianhou also called out at the same time.


    "Reporting to the General, the First Battalion of the Great Xuan Army is to the east," one of the generals said.


    "Reporting to the General, the Second Battalion of the Great Xuan Army is to the west," the other general said.


    "Everyone, assemble and prepare to depart," Qi Tianhou said.


    "Everyone, wait for my inspection," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" the two generals responded simultaneously.


    The two generals waved their hands downwards.


    "Woo~~~" A horn-like sound seemed to echo from below, spreading throughout the entire valley and beyond.


    Upon hearing the horn, everyone quickly assembled, swiftly organized their formations, splitting into two sides, one on the east and one on the west, delineating the First and Second Battalions.


    At the same time, as if summoned by the horn, two thousand huge tigers swiftly ran from all directions of the valley.


    "Roar~~~" The tigers roared loudly in unison, splitting into two groups, standing on each side of the two battalions.


    A thousand tiger cavalry each?


    In front of the two battalions, some soldiers quickly set up twomand tforms.


    Under Ah''s guidance, Zhong Shan flew to the easternmand tform, while Qi Tianhou flew to the western one.


    The others all stood below, and only themanders of the two battalions stood on themand tforms.


    Zhong Shannded on themand tform and immediately sat down, instructing the general who had greeted him earlier to provide detailed information about the two hundred thousand troops. He quickly began to review it.


    Meanwhile, on the western side, Qi Tianhounded on themand tform. After ncing over the two hundred thousand troops, he began, "Do you know who I am?"


    Most soldiers didn''t know, so they remained silent.


    "No matter who I am, now, I am yourmander. I am the one who will lead you to victory and glory. Call me ''General Qi Tian''," Qi Tianhou said loudly.


    "General Qi Tian!" all the soldiers shouted.


    Satisfied with the two hundred thousand troops, Qi Tianhou suddenly extended his palm and pressed it firmly against themand tform.


    "Heaven and Earth, heed my call," Qi Tianhou shouted.


    Suddenly, endless ck smoke erupted from Qi Tianhou''s palm, instantly enveloping the entiremand tform. The ck smoke was extremely strange, preventing even divine consciousness from prating.


    On the othermand tform, Zhong Shan frowned slightly as he looked towards Qi Tianhou''s direction.


    Qi Tianhou, being of the seventh generation bloodline of the emperor, should still possess the ability to summon the Tiger n, but his cultivation was only at the Nascent Soul stage. The tigers he summoned might not necessarily be able to impress everyone. Why was this?


    As Zhong Shan pondered, the ck smoke dissipated, revealing a massive figure inside.


    A monkey? No, an orangutan.


    What Qi Tianhou summoned was not the Tiger n, but a giant orangutan standing sixty meters tall. As soon as the orangutan appeared, it roared and stood up, continuously pounding its chest with its tworge fists.


    "Dong, dong, dong..."


    The continuous pounding sounded as if the giant orangutan was extremely excited. The sound was so loud that the tigers in the valley trembled, and the soldiers became tense. Rocks tumbled down the mountainside due to the tremors caused by the loud noise. The water in the nearby pond rippled incessantly.


    "Enough!" Qi Tianhou said softly.


    After Qi Tianhou finished speaking, the giant orangutan suddenly stopped its excitement and stood obediently to the side.


    Stepping onto the orangutan''s shoulder, Qi Tianhou looked arrogantly towards Zhong Shan not far away, showing a hint of contempt. Then, he turned to the soldiers of the Second Battalion and said, "Second Battalion of the Great Xuan Army, listen up."


    "Yes!" the soldiers of the Second Battalion shouted excitedly.


    A giant orangutan at the Emperor Extreme stage? Summoned by General Qi Tian? This General Qi Tian was extraordinary. With such a powerful general leading them, how could the soldiers of the Second Battalion not be excited?


    "Follow me into battle, and let''s annihte our enemies together," Qi Tianhou said, raising a purple-golden dragon staff in his hand.


    "Yes!" the soldiers of the Second Battalion shouted loudly in response.

 Chapter 271:Heaven鈥檚 Law! Wind Ripper!

    <h4>Chapter 271:Heaven��s Law! Wind Ripper!</h4>


    The Valley had a quiet air of anticipation as General Qi Tian led the Second Regiment of the Grand Xu Army away. Only the First Regiment remained, their eyes filled with a mix of envy and expectation as they watched theirrades depart. All attention soon turned to themanding figure seated on the dais, Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan, with a demeanor of calm authority, meticulously perused the records before him. These documents detailed the First Regiment''s structure and its leaders. Apart from himself, the regiment boasted a single deputy general, Zhao Chuan, who had a cultivation level of Nascent Soul Stage. Apanying him were forty other officers, each leading several thousand troops, including a formidable unit of one thousand tiger cavalry under a Nascent Soul Stage officer''smand.


    The First Regiment was a disciplined and elite force; even the lowest rank held a cultivation level of the Golden Core Stage. Satisfied with his review, Zhong Shan discarded the papers and rose to address the twenty thousand soldiers before him.


    "Zhao Chuan," Zhong Shan called out sharply.


    "Present," replied Zhao Chuan, stepping forward with a salute.


    "Conduct a headcount," Zhong Shan ordered in a voice that brooked no dissent.


    "Yes, sir!" Zhao Chuan responded, turning to the regiment. "All units, conduct a headcount!" hemanded.


    The officers immediately sprang into action, rallying their troops for the count. Zhong Shan waited patiently, observing the proceedings with an unyielding gaze.


    After a short while, Zhao Chuan approached with a furrowed brow, looking somewhat apprehensive.


    "What''s the count?" Zhong Shan asked in a stern tone.


    "Five men missing," Zhao Chuan reported.


    "Five men missing from the First Regiment of the Grand Xu Army?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed dangerously.


    "Yes, General. It''s General Li Feng and his four subordinates. General Li Feng is rted to the Fourth Princess Consort," Zhao Chuan said, ncing at Zhong Shan with a troubled expression.


    As Zhao Chuan finished speaking, the entire regiment turned their eyes towards Zhong Shan, awaiting his judgment. The tension in the air was palpable. How would he handle this?


    "ording to militaryw, what is the punishment for abandoning the camp?" Zhong Shan asked, his voice as cold as steel.


    "The punishment is death. However, General Li Feng is rted to the Fourth Princess Consort, and this isn''t the first time he''s done this. He''s likely in Grand Xu City, indulging himself again," Zhao Chuan responded, his brow furrowed.


    "So, ording to militaryw, Li Feng should be executed?" Zhong Shan''s voice rang with finality.


    "Yes," Zhao Chuan affirmed, albeit reluctantly.


    "Zhao Chuan, take ten officers with you and bring Li Feng to me," Zhong Shan ordered, his eyes zing with determination.


    "Yes, sir," Zhao Chuan replied, epting themand without hesitation.


    Zhong Shan returned to his seat on the dais, settling in to wait for Zhao Chuan''s return. The hours dragged on��one hour, two hours, three hours��and the soldiers grew restless. Yet Zhong Shan remained patient, a pir of steadfast resolve.


    As dusk began to fall, a group finally appeared on the horizon. Zhao Chuan led the way, and beside him was a man reeking of alcohol, a sneer of disdain etched on his face. This was Li Feng, apanied by his four subordinates, who trailed behind him sullenly.


    Theynded before the dais, the ten officers taking their ces, while Li Feng and his men began to retreat to their positions.


    "Stop!" Zhong Shan''s voice thundered through the air.


    Li Feng turned, a forced smile ying on his lips. "Did you call for me, General?" he asked with a hint of mockery in his tone.


    "Who are you?" Zhong Shan demanded, his voice cutting through the evening air like a de.


    "Under mymand is the Twelfth Division of the First Regiment of the Grand Xu Army. My name is Li Feng," Li Feng replied nonchntly, his tone dripping with disdain.


    "Li Feng, where were you earlier?" Zhong Shan asked, his voice carrying an unmistakable edge.


    "Oh, earlier? I was at my aunt''s ce. She was hosting a banquet, and I went to attend. I forgot to mention, my aunt is the Fourth Princess Consort," Li Feng said with a smirk, clearly proud of his connections. He turned to leave.


    "Did you apply for permission to leave the camp?" Zhong Shan''s voice was stern, demanding an answer.


    "Apply? Why would I, Li Feng, need to apply to leave the camp? Especially when summoned by my aunt? What application?" Li Feng scoffed, his disdainful smile never wavering.


    "Leaving the camp without permission during a time of war is punishable by death under militaryw!" Zhong Shan dered, his voice booming.


    "Death? Do you dare?" Li Feng''s eyes widened in disbelief, filled with defiance.


    "The Prince has granted me the Tiger Talisman. I am themander of the First Regiment of the Grand Xu Army. My words arew," Zhong Shan retorted, his gaze unyielding.


    "No one dares to execute me, Li Feng, least of all you. You, a mere Golden Core Stage cultivator, dare tomand the First Regiment of the Grand Xu Army? Ridiculous!" Li Feng spat with contempt.


    "Golden Core Stage?"


    "What? Only Golden Core Stage?"


    "How can a Golden Core Stage cultivator lead an army of twenty thousand?"


    "General Qi Tian of the Second Regiment can summon the Heaven-reaching Great Ape. Why must we...?"


    Whispers of doubt rippled through the ranks, filling the air with unease.


    "Golden Core Stage? Who said I am at the Golden Core Stage?" Zhong Shan''s eyes shed coldly.


    "Hmph! My aunt asked Zhao Chuan! Would Zhao Chuan dare to lie to my aunt?" Li Feng sneered, his arrogance palpable.


    Deputy General Zhao Chuan''s face twisted with helplessness, unable to conceal his frustration.


    Zhong Shan fixed his gaze on Zhao Chuan briefly before turning back to Li Feng. An army''s strength lies in its leader. A weak leader breeds cowardice among the troops, while a strong leader instills courage. Li Feng''s insolence had already unsettled the army''s morale. He had to die, and Zhong Shan needed to assert his authority��tomand respect and fear across the ranks.


    "Preposterous!" Zhong Shan roared.


    "I''m preposterous? Ask Zhao Chuan! Would he dare deceive my aunt?" Li Feng shouted back.


    All eyes were on Zhong Shan, waiting to see his next move.


    Zhong Shan squinted slightly at Zhao Chuan, then said to Li Feng, "Very well, since you im I''m at the Golden Core Stage, you will withstand a single strike from me. If one strike cannot kill you, you will be free toe and go from the First Regiment as you please."


    "I ept!" Li Feng nced at Zhao Chuan, then responded confidently to Zhong Shan.


    "Whhoooooshhh��"


    Zhong Shan drew out his massive sword, Night Terror, with a solemn expression. Li Feng, too, unsheathed his own de, his face still filled with scorn.


    Gazing at Li Feng, Zhong Shan took a deep breath andmanded, "Clear the field!"


    At hismand, everyone moved aside, leaving only Li Feng and his four subordinates in the center.


    Heavenly Demon Body Refinement Art, Fourth Stage!


    Zhong Shan''s eyes suddenly gleamed as his mental energy surged into them. The world around him fragmented into pieces.


    Fixing his gaze on Li Feng, Zhong Shan swung his sword. A massive de energy, fifty meters long, shed towards Li Feng.


    Seeing the de energy, Li Fengughed derisively. He didn''t even bother to release his own sword energy. What threat could this de pose? They were separated by a hundred meters; what could a fifty-meter de energy achieve?


    Heaven''s Law! Wind Ripper!


    As the seemingly powerless de energy headed straight for Li Feng, he stood there, full of disdain, confident in his invincibility.


    As Zhong Shan''s sword arced through the air, an earsplitting whistle filled the valley, stabbing into the eardrums of those with lower cultivation. Many felt a sudden, sharp pain in their ears. From the tip of Zhong Shan''s sword, onlookers saw what appeared to be a tear��a rip in the very fabric of the air itself. The de''s edge seemed to part the air like tearing cloth, creating a sensation of a gaping maw in the atmosphere.


    The piercing noise emanated from this strange void, as if the surrounding air had turned into a sheet of fabric, ripping apart from that point. The tear expanded rapidly, transforming into a gaping corridor through which a fierce wind roared, bursting outwards with violent force. The gale howled like a powerful wind spell, making the armor of the assembled soldiers tter noisily.


    The tear ripped through the air at an rming speed, aimed directly at Li Feng, who was taken by surprise and barely had time to react. In that instant, Li Feng realized his mistake. Hiscency had left him vulnerable. Panic shed across his face as he tried to evade the rapidly approaching rift.


    But it was toote. The rip in the air reached him in the blink of an eye.


    From an outside perspective, it seemed as if Li Feng had frozen in ce. In reality, he simply couldn''t move quickly enough. In a desperate attempt to defend himself, he enveloped his body in a protective aura and raised his sword.


    "Boom!"


    But under the might of the Heaven''s Law, all of Li Feng''s efforts were in vain. Despite being a Nascent Soul Stage cultivator, he was bisected in an instant by Zhong Shan''s de, his blood sttering into the sky.


    "Boom!"


    The remaining energy from the Wind Ripper didn''t dissipate. It crashed into a nearby mountain, cleaving it in two with a thunderous explosion.


    Heaven''s Law! Wind Ripper!


    "Whew..."


    Zhong Shan exhaled deeply. The technique, Heaven''s Law: Wind Ripper, was a breakthrough following his previous sess with Wave Cutter, which sliced through water. Wind Ripper cut through the air itself, greatly enhancing his power with the help of mental force.


    As Zhong Shan''s mental energy returned to the red lotus in his brow, he slowly sheathed his massive sword, Nightmare.


    "Thud!"


    Li Feng''s four subordinates quickly fell to their knees. Staring at Li Feng''s bisected corpse, they immediately kowtowed to Zhong Shan, their voices trembling with fear.


    "General! General, we were wrong! It was Li Feng who made us do it."


    "Please, spare us, General!"


    "General, we were wrong!"


    Their terrified pleas filled the air as they begged for their lives.


    Zhong Shan shifted his gaze to Zhao Chuan, who felt a sudden tightness in his chest.


    "Execute them!"


    "Yes, sir!" Zhao Chuan replied promptly.


    Without hesitation, Zhao Chuan drew his sword and swiftly executed Li Feng''s four subordinates.


    After the executions, Zhao Chuan couldn''t suppress a shiver. Thismander was ruthless and decisive in his killings, showing no mercy.


    The other soldiers quickly straightened up, the sight of the prince''s nephew''s execution fresh in their minds. If he dared to execute a rtive of the Princess Consort, there was nothing he wouldn''t dare to do. And his power��it was certainly far beyond the Golden Core Stage. Without a doubt.


    With a single strike, Zhong Shan had instilled fear and respect in everyone. He then turned his attention back to the twenty thousand troops.


    "Distribute Li Feng''s former subordinates among the other divisions," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, sir!" the soldiers responded loudly, their voices echoing even more powerfully than the Second Regiment''s under General Qi Tian.


    Looking at the troops, Zhong Shan knew that authority must be bnced with both rewards and punishments. Discipline had to be strict and impartial.


    "In my army, rewards and punishments are clear. Offenders will not be tolerated, and those who achieve merit will not be neglected. From now on, we face the army of the Great Yu Dynasty. Starting now, kill or capture five enemies of your rank, and you will be promoted unconditionally," Zhong Shan dered.


    "Yes!" the soldiers responded, their eyes gleaming with excitement.


    Five? They only needed to kill five enemies to be promoted? This was an incredible opportunity.


    "After each battle, anyone who fails to kill at least one enemy will be demoted by one rank," Zhong Shan added.


    "Yes!" the soldiers shouted again.


    For the lowest-ranked soldiers, demotion meant nothing. For officers, it seemed easy to kill at least one enemy. Rank was not a matter of cultivation level here.


    "Good. Rest for the night. We march at dawn," Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" the soldiers roared.


    Deputy General Zhao Chuan couldn''t help but marvel at thismander. With subtle tactics, Zhong Shan had established his authority and united the troops. How long had it taken? Just half a day topletely control the army?

 Chapter 272: The Current Situation

    <h4>Chapter 272: The Current Situation</h4>


    Two months had passed, and Zhong Shan had thoroughly consolidated his control over his regiment. At this point, even if Zhao Chuan, the deputy general, attempted to incite a mutiny, no one would follow him. This was a testament to Zhong Shan''s prowess. The 200,000-strong army was now entirely loyal to theirmander. Within just two months, they hade to the point where they would follow no orders except those from the Emperor or the King of Da Xuan.


    As they neared Wushuang City, the regiment halted in a valley. Zhong Shan stood atop a peak, apanied by his bodyguard Ah Da and Zhao Chuan, who was now always ready to execute Zhong Shan''s orders. Over the past two months, Zhao Chuan had developed an immense respect for Zhong Shan''s leadership abilities, recognizing him as a truly formidablemander.


    Approaching Wushuang City directly would be folly. Zhong Shan understood its strategic significance well. Previously, it had been defended by an army of 1.2 million, yet even they had failed to hold the city. The forces that had besieged and taken Wushuang City numbered at least a million, possibly two million. Considering the natural defenses of Wushuang City, attacking with his 200,000 troops would be nothing short of suicidal.


    Zhong Shan had dispatched numerous scouts to gather intelligence on the surrounding areas. He understood that mastering the local terrain and the enemy''s positions was crucial to formting a sessful strategy. He already had a firm grip on his own forces and now sought to understand the Da Yu army''s disposition.


    A scout soon returned, delivering a memory crystal. Zhong Shan read its contents, learning about the local terrain, and then returned the crystal to the scout, who went back to further reconnaissance.


    "General, if we don''t scout in the direction of Wushuang City, will checking the surroundings really be useful?" Zhao Chuan asked, puzzled.


    "Scouting near Wushuang City would result in instant death from a hail of breaking arrow bolts. Besides, why knowingly walk into a trap?" Zhong Shan responded calmly.


    "Uh..." Zhao Chuan was baffled, not fully grasping Zhong Shan''s strategy. Was he suggesting they avoid confronting the enemy at Wushuang City altogether?


    At that moment, two figures appeared in the distance. One was another scout sent by Zhong Shan, and the other, though looking slightly disheveled, was a familiar face.


    It was Shui Wuhen, the second senior disciple of the Kaiyang Sect, and once Zhong Shan''s colleague in Wushuang City under Elder Zi Xun. Shui Wuhen, now appearing more weathered and serious than the graceful gentleman he once was, had clearly endured significant hardship.


    "Reporting to the General, I encountered this person on the road. He ims to be the son of the former city lord of Wushuang City and requests an audience with themander," the scout reported.


    "General Zhong...?" Shui Wuhen started, but seeing the scout bowing respectfully to Zhong Shan, he quickly corrected himself, "Commander Zhong, is that really you?"


    "Senior Brother, howe you are here?" Zhong Shan greeted him warmly.


    Seeing Zhong Shan still addressing him as "Senior Brother," Shui Wuhen felt a surge of warmth and emotion. Zhao Chuan, standing nearby, raised an eyebrow��this man was the General''s senior?


    "Zhong Shan, are you really themander of the forces aiding Wushuang City?" Shui Wuhen asked, uncertain.


    "Indeed, the Da Xuan Army''s First Regiment is currently camped in this valley. I was just looking for someone from Wushuang City to inquire about the internal situation, and here you are. I''ve heard about your father. You have my condolences," Zhong Shan said sincerely.


    Shui Wuhen, deeply moved by Zhong Shan''s words, nodded solemnly. "Thank you, Zhong Shan. The situation in Wushuang City is dire. After my father fell, the city has been under the iron grip of the Da Yu forces. It''s now a stronghold, heavily fortified and nearly imprable from the outside."


    Zhong Shan listened intently, his expression thoughtful. "What can you tell me about their forces and defenses? Any information could be crucial in nning our next move."


    Shui Wuhen took a deep breath, organizing his thoughts. "The Da Yu army has bolstered the city with numerous soldiers and defensive mechanisms. Their numbers are overwhelming, and they''ve set up powerful formations to ward off any direct assault. However, not all is lost. I''ve learned that their supplies are stretched thin, and there''s growing discontent among the troops. If we could find a way to exploit these weaknesses, we might stand a chance."


    "Good," Zhong Shan said, nodding. "We''ll use this information to devise a strategy. Our first priority is to avoid direct confrontation and instead, disrupt their supply lines and lower their morale. If we can weaken them from within, our chances of reiming Wushuang City will increase significantly."


    Zhong Shan turned to his officers. "Prepare the troops. We move at dawn. Our mission is to scout the enemy''s supply routes and find any weak points we can exploit."


    "Yes, General!" the officers responded in unison, their voices filled with determination.


    Zhao Chuan couldn''t help but feel a growing respect for Zhong Shan. In just two months, Zhong Shan had not only solidified hismand but had also devised a clear n to undermine the enemy''s strengths and exploit their weaknesses. His leadership had already started to transform the once demoralized and fragmented regiment into a cohesive and determined fighting force.


    As the camp settled down for the night, the soldiers'' spirits were high, bolstered by the confidence that their newmander inspired. With Zhong Shan at the helm, they felt ready to face any challenge thaty ahead.


    Shui Wuhen smiled bitterly and said, "Despite all your efforts, my father managed to be the City Lord of Wushuang City. But ultimately, the war crisis became a reality. The Dayu Empire tore up the treaty andunched an attack."


    "Hmm, how many soldiers did they send? Wushuang City is a natural fortress. How could it have fallen?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Traitors, traitors everywhere. Who would have thought that the bodyguard my father spent a fortune hiring was actually an agent sent by the Dayu Empire? My father was destined not to hold Wushuang City. When the Dayu Empire arrived with four hundred thousand troops, despite Wushuang City''s formidable defenses, internal treachery prevailed. Mo Baili, after being abandoned by the Great King of Da Xuan, defected to the Dayu Empire. He opened the city gates while we were defending to the death. Four hundred thousand troops! There was no stopping them, simply no stopping them," Shui Wuhen recounted with sorrow.


    "Who led their army?" Zhong Shan asked, his frown deepening.


    "King Julu!" Shui Wuhen replied.


    "King Julu?" Zhong Shan exhaled heavily.


    "Yes, but King Julu is no longer in Wushuang City. He has moved to another location. The current suprememander in Wushuang City is a general named ''Wu An''," Shui Wuhen exined.


    "Wu An?" Zhong Shan''s frown deepened. Wu An was known to be a loyal follower of King Julu.


    "Yes, Zhong Shan, my father''s body is still in Wushuang City. I beg you, please retrieve my father''s remains for me," Shui Wuhen pleaded earnestly, looking at Zhong Shan with a face full of hope.


    "Senior Brother, don''t worry. We are here to take back Wushuang City," Zhong Shan assured him solemnly.


    "Thank you! Thank you!" Shui Wuhen said, his voice trembling with gratitude.


    "With Wu Anmanding now, how is the city''s defense?" Zhong Shan asked, his brow furrowed.


    "Although Mo Baili betrayed us, he knew all the defensive measures. So Wushuang City is still as fortified as ever, and it now houses an army of 1.5 million. How many troops did you bring?" Shui Wuhen asked, looking at Zhong Shan expectantly.


    "Two hundred thousand," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Two hundred thousand? Only two hundred thousand?" Shui Wuhen''s face fell immediately.


    However, as if suddenly remembering something, Shui Wuhen quickly said, "My father used to say there''s nothing you can''t aplish. You will surely find a way to breach Wushuang City, won''t you?"


    Shui Wuhen looked at Zhong Shan with intense anticipation. What else could Zhong Shan do but nod?


    Seeing Zhong Shan nod, Shui Wuhen became excited.


    "That''s great, that''s great!" Shui Wuhen murmured to himself.


    Seeing Shui Wuhen''s demeanor, Zhong Shan sighed softly. Shui Wuhen had suffered too great a blow. With his father''s death, his emotions had changed drastically, but this also indicated that Shui Wuhen deeply valued loyalty and emotions.


    Loyal and righteous, this was the kind of person Zhong Shan needed.


    "Senior Brother, why don''t you stay in our camp for now? Later, you can join us in retaking Wushuang City and reiming your father''s remains," Zhong Shan suggested.


    "Alright," Shui Wuhen nodded.


    "By the way, with Wushuang City fallen, what happened to the city''s civilians and the remnants of our forces?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "The remnants of our forces were divided into three groups, each fleeing with injuries. I know the location of one of them. I''ll take you there," Shui Wuhen said.


    Zhong Shan considered this for a moment and said, "Alright!"


    "Zhao Chuan, notify everyone to prepare for departure," Zhong Shan instructed Zhao Chuan, who was standing behind him.


    "Yes," Zhao Chuan responded promptly and went to ry the orders.


    "How manybat-capable soldiers remain in the group you know about?" Zhong Shan asked Shui Wuhen.


    Shui Wuhen exined, "We have around one hundred thousand people, but most of them are injured. At best, only thirty thousand can actually fight."


    "Thirty thousand out of one hundred thousand?" Zhong Shan nodded, noting the figures.


    "However, that General Wu An is currently searching everywhere, trying to eliminate all remnants of our forces," Shui Wuhen said worriedly.


    "Don''t worry, I''m here. What about the civilians in the city?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "The majority of the civilians have escaped the city, only a small portion remain," Shui Wuhen said with resentment.


    "Those who stayed?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, around two hundred thousand of the more unruly citizens remained. After Wushuang City fell, they willingly gave up their Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty citizenship and epted the Dayu Empire''s rule," Shui Wuhen said, full of anger.


    "People act in their own interest. These unruly citizens probably saw an opportunity in the shops left behind by those who fled. By dering themselves citizens of the Dayu Empire, they could take over the abandoned properties," Zhong Shan said with a cold smile.


    "Exactly. Small items can be carried away in storage bracelets, but the space in these bracelets is limited. Not everyone hasrge storage space, so many belongings were left behind in the city. Most of these have likely been given to those two hundred thousand opportunists," Shui Wuhen said.


    "The expansion of the empire isn''t just about territory, but also people. The Dayu Empire likely ns to win over these people. What about the six hundred thousand who escaped?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Many of those who escaped have left the area, but some are still lingering around the mountains and sects near Wushuang City, hoping that one day the Heavenly Dynasty will reim the city, and they can recover their possessions," Shui Wuhen replied.


    "Oh, that''s good. This way, we potentially have an additional three hundred thousand troops at our disposal," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Senior Brother, even if you can gather those three hundred thousand people, their cultivation levels are very low, mostly at the innate stage, and they haven''t undergone formal military training. In a battle, they would be no match for a regr army and would be like grass before a scythe. They wouldn''t be of any help in storming the city. Besides, Wushuang City is so well-fortified that it seems impossible to capture it. This would be a suicidal mission. Do you think the people will agree to it?" Shui Wuhen said with concern.


    "Whether the people agree or not doesn''t matter, as long as I agree," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "You agree?" Shui Wuhen looked at Zhong Shan with a puzzled expression.


    "Yes, if I agree, it means the people will agree, and even the sects hiding them will agree. Do you think the people willck courage?" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "In the face of an army,mon people are like grass. They''ve never participated inbat before. If a battle breaks out..." Shui Wuhen was extremely worried.


    "Don''t worry. I guarantee that when the timees, themon people will fight more fiercely than the soldiers. This is great news. With millions of ''troops'' here, how can we not make use of them? Let''s go. Zhao Chuan''s forces should be ready by now. We''ll head to where you know the remnant forces are located, gather them, and then n our next steps," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright." Shui Wuhen could only nod, still full of doubt.


    <i></i>

 Chapter 273: Weakness Confronted

    <h4>Chapter 273: Weakness Confronted</h4>


    Five dayster, Zhong Shan led his 200,000-strong army to a mountainous valley where they finally encountered the 100,000 remnants of the defeated forces.


    These 100,000 soldiers, most of whom were injured, included several thousand who were now disabled.


    "Salute to the General," the remnant soldiers said in unison after confirming Zhong Shan''s identity.


    Standing on arge boulder, Zhong Shan looked at these soldiers and took a deep breath. "Everyone, you''ve had a tough time! We came toote."


    Having lost the battle and the city, they had expected the new general to be furious and scold them. However, the first thing thismander did was to take the me upon himself.


    Everyone stared at Zhong Shan, stunned and uncertain.


    "I was a close friend of the former Lord of Wushuang City. The crisis of war was something I foresaw and warned about, but I never imagined it would actuallye to pass. Despite the loss of Wushuang City, you all continued to resist fiercely, demonstrating your loyalty to the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty. You are the heroes that Da Luo needs the most; you are the heroes of the world," Zhong Shan said loudly.


    Hearing Zhong Shan call them heroes, the soldiers felt their hearts surge with emotion. They were the defeated, the wounded, yet this general was calling them heroes?


    "Outside, we face an army of 400,000. Inside, we had the betrayal of Mo Baili. You have done your best. Losing Wushuang City was not your fault. What is lost can be reimed. You are the heroes of Da Luo, who have resisted with tenacity and upheld Da Luo''s honor. Each of you is to be awarded fourth-ss merits and 100 top-grade spirit stones. Those who are injured will receive 500. We will be heroes not only in our actions but in the eyes of the world. We will retake Wushuang City and avenge our fallen brothers," Zhong Shan dered.


    "Retake Wushuang City! Avenge our fallen brothers!" some of the passionate soldiers began to shout.


    Emotions are contagious, and soon the entire valley was filled with the rallying cries.


    "Retake Wushuang City! Avenge our fallen brothers!"


    "Retake Wushuang City! Avenge our fallen brothers!"


    ... Zhong Shan, satisfied with the enthusiasm of these remnant soldiers, said, "Rest and heal well. We will avenge our past wrongs. I will lead you to stand once more in Wushuang City and show the world that what we have lost, we can reim."


    Hearing this, the soldiers looked at Zhong Shan with some hope, though many still remained skeptical.


    "Your leaders have fallen in battle, so I will now decide. From now on, Shui Wuhen will be yourmander. He is the son of Shui Tianya and shares his father''s determination to reim Wushuang City. With the same resolve, he will protect you and lead the revenge to the utmost," Zhong Shan said.


    With these words, all eyes turned to Shui Wuhen.


    Shui Wuhen nced at Zhong Shan, a look of gratitude passing over his face. "Yes, General."


    "Salute to Commander Shui," the 100,000 soldiers immediately saluted Shui Wuhen.


    Having rallied the 100,000 remnant soldiers, Zhong Shan called Shui Wuhen for a private meeting in the central tent.


    "Senior Brother!" Zhong Shan greeted him.


    "General, please just call me Shui Wuhen or Wuhen," Shui Wuhen quickly said to Zhong Shan.


    "Alright, Wuhen," Zhong Shan nodded with a smile.


    "What does the General need?" Shui Wuhen asked.


    "Can we get in contact with the other two groups of remnant forces?" Zhong Shan asked after thinking for a moment.


    "We only have a rough idea of where they might be. Whether we can reach them is uncertain," Shui Wuhen pondered.


    "Good. Select trustworthy and influential individuals from your men and send them urgently to the other two directions to search. Gather the remaining forces as quickly as possible," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes," Shui Wuhen replied.


    "Also, send someone to scout the surroundings, find the gathering ces of the former citizens, collect information on nearby sect locations, and swiftly bring it to me," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen replied.


    "Go now, and also bring Zhao Chuan to me," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen immediately exited the tent.


    Outside the tent, Shui Wuhen soon found Zhao Chuan.


    "General Zhao, themander requests your presence," Shui Wuhen said.


    "Hmm," Zhao Chuan nodded.


    Shui Wuhen went to attend to his own tasks, while Zhao Chuan, feeling resigned, walked towards the central tent. Despite his role as Zhong Shan''s assistant, Zhao Chuan also served as a spy for the Great Xuan King, observing Zhong Shan''s abilities. However, in just a short time, who would dare say that Zhong Shancked talent? Initially, the 100,000 remnant soldiers were despondent and lethargic, but under Zhong Shan''s influence, they were now filled with high spirits, ready to charge towards Wushuang City as if they were the first.


    Not only the remnant soldiers but also the soldiers of the Great Xuan Army''s First Battalion were inspired by Zhong Shan. He had be the soul of the army. At this point, to think of recing him? Without Zhong Shan''s intervention, they would have been shot down like sieve by a barrage of arrows.


    Zhong Shan was too formidable!


    With a slight sigh, Zhao Chuan entered the camp.


    "Salute to the General," Zhao Chuan immediately greeted respectfully.


    "Zhao Chuan, how is the production of my banner going?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s almost done, but General, why do we need so many? This is the quantity we used when we had a million-strong army," Zhao Chuan asked, puzzled.


    "Just do as I say. Also, there''s something else I need you to do," Zhong Shan said ��


    North of Wushuang City, on a mountain peak.


    Under themand of General Wu''an, a trusted aide of the Giant Deer King, 500,000 troops were dispatched from the city to eliminate the remnants of Wushuang City.


    At the peak of the mountain, Wu''an stroked his sword and listened to the reports of the two men kneeling before him.


    "General, there are 100,000 remnants of Wushuang City located 80,000 miles northwest. ording to our estimates, only 30,000 are fit for battle, the rest are severely injured," one scout reported.


    "Hmm," Wu''an nodded.


    "General, 300,000 former citizens of Wushuang City have gathered at arge sect 30,000 miles northeast," another scout reported.


    "Hmm, inform the troops to prepare to move northwest and exterminate the remnants," Wu''an ordered.


    "Yes, General," a general behind Wu''an replied.


    "General, what about the 300,000 former citizens in the northeast?" another general asked.


    "Handle it? Why bother? They are just waiting and watching. With the five major dynasties attacking the Da Luo Dynasty together, once the Da Luo Dynasty falls, won''t the territory here belong to our Great Yu Dynasty? Won''t those former Da Luo citizens be citizens of our Great Yu Dynasty?" Wu''an replied.


    "Yes, General, you are wise," the man behind Wu''an immediately said.


    "Hmm, do your duty, we must wipe out the remnants around us before the reinforcements from the Da Luo Dynasty arrive. We can''t give them time. Once they recover, our future attacks will be difficult," Wu''an said.


    "Yes," the man replied ��


    In Zhong Shan''s camp.


    A scout flew hastily into the camp and quickly made his way towards the central tent.


    Inside the tent, Zhong Shan was in conversation with Shui Wuhen and Zhao Chuan.


    "Report��"


    A loud call interrupted their conversation as the scout entered the camp and immediately knelt down.


    "General, it''s bad," the scout eximed.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "General, it''s General Wu''an from the Great Yu Dynasty. He''s leading 500,000 troops towards us. They''ll arrive in no more than two hours," the scout reported.


    "Which direction are theying from?" Zhong Shan asked calmly.


    "Southeast, General," the scout replied.


    "Alright, you may rest now," Zhong Shan said.


    The scout nodded immediately and said, "Yes, General."


    "General, the 100,000 remnant soldiers can''t possibly be moved. What should we do now that 500,000 troops areing?" Shui Wuhen expressed concern.


    "It''s just 500,000 troops, no need to panic," Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "But, but..." Shui Wuhen wanted to mention that there were only around 20,000 troops capable of fighting. Facing 500,000 enemy troops, how could they not panic?


    "Don''t worry, I have arrangements in ce," Zhong Shan reassured.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen immediately responded, no longer pressing the issue.


    "Zhao Chuan, carry out my previous instructions. Also, if you spot enemy scouts, eliminate them all," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan immediatelyplied.


    Zhao Chuan went to make arrangements while Zhong Shan, apanied by Ada, stepped out of the tent and flew to the top of a nearby mountain peak.


    Under the guidance of a scout, Wu''an led his 500,000 troops towards Zhong Shan''s location, moving swiftly without stopping.


    As they approached, Wu''an slowed the pace and organized his troops, advancing steadily towards the distance.


    Wu''an had a bad feeling. What was it? Perhaps it stemmed from theck of return of the scouts he had sent out. None of them had returned. Why? Were they dead?


    Flying closer, Wu''an suddenly spotted two figures.


    Zhong Shan and Ada.


    Was it them?


    Wu''an signaled for his 500,000 troops to halt. From a distance, he said, "Mr. Zhong Shan, it''s been a while."


    "I didn''t expect that my first battle would be against General Wu''an. How coincidental. I wonder how many troops General Wu''an is sending me this time?" Zhong Shan smiled faintly.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Wu''an raised an eyebrow. Zhong Shan''s prowess, others might only hear about it, but Wu''an had experienced it firsthand. His ability to appear and disappear at will was no less than that of Yi Yan from the Great Yu Dynasty. He had held his own against Yi Yan and even repelled the Giant Deer King''s 8 million troops during the search. This person was too terrifying! Without any military power in his hands, he was already so formidable. Now that he was leading troops, he would undoubtedly be the most terrifying general.

 Chapter 274: This Man Is Invincible, Against Heaven鈥檚 Will!

    <h4>Chapter 274: This Man Is Invincible, Against Heaven''s Will!</h4>


    Wu''an''s mind was filled with uncertainty, but his brain was still working frantically.


    "Haha, I wonder how many troops the Great Luo Dynasty has given you? Just a mere princess''s guard, it can''t be too many!" Wu''an looked at Zhong Shan andughed, while also extending his divine sense outward.


    However, Zhong Shan was standing far from the main army, and Wu''an was even farther away. Despite extending his divine sense, he could only reach where Zhong Shan was standing. Further ahead, he could vaguely sense some figures, but he wasn''t certain.


    "How many troops, you''ll find out soon enough. It all depends on General Wu''an''s courage, how many troops he''s willing to send me," Zhong Shan smiled.


    Wu''an hated it when others remained calm andposed, leaving him uncertain. However, Wu''an thought that with his 500,000 troops against Zhong Shan, who had only been a princess''s guard for a few years, the Great Luo Dynasty couldn''t have given him too many troops.


    With this in mind, Wu''an waved his hand, leading his army slowly towards Zhong Shan''s direction.


    As the army advanced, Wu''an''s divine sense covered even further distances.


    Only ten thousand? Just ten thousand?


    No, there''s another ten thousand there?


    Wu''an looked around suspiciously. Zhong Shan had dispersed his forces.


    A sense of foreboding grew stronger in Wu''an''s heart as he watched Zhong Shan''s still smiling face. He really wanted to p Zhong Shan to death because that smile was putting too much pressure on Wu''an.


    Finally, after Wu''an discovered the presence of 200,000 troops, and there were no more ambushes ahead, he breathed a sigh of relief and said, "It''s just a bluff!"


    "Charge!" Wu''an ordered.


    The army under Wu''an''smand swiftly ran through the mountains towards the distance. Some who could fly on swords also rushed towards the distance.


    On a distant mountain peak, Zhong Shan waved his hand.


    "Fire!"


    Countless breaking the void arrows shot from afar, directly towards the cultivators flying in the sky.


    Bang, bang, bang...


    A group was shot down, but it also exposed Zhong Shan''s subordinates. Wu''an''s troops quickly took out their own breaking the void arrows.


    Roar, roar, roar...


    For a moment, Zhong Shan''s soldiers roared excitedly. Not only Zhong Shan''s troops, but also the countless mountain valleys behind Zhong Shan echoed with cheers. At the same time, suddenly, on countless mountain peaks, Zhong Shan''s g appeared.


    The character "Zhong" was raised high.


    Zhong! Zhong! Zhong!


    ... The gs with the character "Zhong" covered the mountains and valleys.


    "Oh no, a million troops, we''ve been tricked," Wu''an suddenly eximed in surprise.


    "Retreat!"


    With a singlemand, Wu''an''s army immediately turned around and fled. Tricked by an ambush with a million people? They weren''t staying for that.


    "Good, good, good, just you wait!" Wu''an left behind a string of harsh words and quickly flew away.


    With a wave of Zhong Shan''s hand, the pursuit of ten thousand troops ceased, and they all cheered loudly.


    "Oh~~ Oh~~~ Oh~~~"


    They celebrated their victory joyously.


    At this moment, Zhao Chuan flew over from a distance.


    "General, so this is how the banners are used. In this round alone, we''ve killed at least twenty thousand enemy troops. Why did you only allow half of our soldiers to shoot arrows?" Zhao Chuan asked excitedly.


    "Shoot them all? What if Wu''an figures it out? Bluff with reality, and reality with bluff. Killing twenty thousand is enough; if they figure it out and turn around, we could lose a hundred thousand," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Understood!" Zhao Chuan quickly returned.


    "Well, those remaining troops should stop waving gs and shouting. Get ready to leave here immediately," Zhong Shan said.


    "Why? This ce has excellent terrain! Besides, Wu''an wouldn''t dare toe back," Zhao Chuan said.


    "What if hees to his senses? Dealing with himter when he''s exhausted is not as good as leaving now. Quickly!" Zhong Shan replied.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan immediately went to make arrangements.


    Zhong Shan led the two hundred thousand main army and the remaining one hundred thousand wounded soldiers away from the area. Although they didn''t fight much in this battle, they managed to annihte twenty thousand enemies while only suffering a few dozen minor injuries.


    Not a single death, yet they wiped out twenty thousand enemies. All the soldiers were extremely excited.


    General Wu''an fled in a panic with his army, quickly returning to the city of Wushuang.


    In the lord''s mansion of Wushuang City, Wu''an paced back and forth with a furrowed brow, lost in thought.


    A million troops, all for a city like Wushuang? The Great Luo Dynasty actually sent a million troops.


    Is the Great Luo Dynasty going all out?


    But that''s not right, is it? Although Zhong Shan is exceptionally talented, he''s not qualified tomand a million troops. Zhong Shan, although talented, had only recently emerged. Tomand a million troops, one would need significant achievements.


    However, Zhong Shan is too strange; Wu''an had to consider it.


    Although Wu''an was suspicious, he didn''t regret his decision to retreat.


    After thinking for a while, Wu''an ordered a subordinate, "Go, send a scout back to take a look, ande back quickly to report to me."


    "Yes!" The subordinate who had been waiting beside him quickly responded and hurried out.


    After waiting for two more days, the scout returned.


    "How is it?" Wu''an asked anxiously.


    "There''s no one, only the corpses of our troops who were shot with arrows, the arrows are still in them," the scout reported.


    "Collect the bodies," Wu''an ordered.


    "Yes!" The scout immediatelyplied.


    Wu''an paced back and forth in the hall, thinking for a moment. Suddenly, he pped his thigh, "Oh no, we''ve been fooled!"


    "What''s wrong, General?" A nearby subordinate asked immediately.


    "They left in such a hurry that they didn''t even retrieve the shot arrows. They must have fled in a panic. There are only two hundred thousand of them, how did I not realize?" Wu''an regretted bitterly.


    "General is wise; you can deduce the enemy''s numbers just by the feathers of the arrows," a subordinate quickly ttered.


    Looking at the subordinate, Wu''an''s mood improved, "That''s right, only two hundred thousand. We didn''t finish them offst time, so let''s finish them off next time. Only two hundred thousand?"


    "Reporting to the general, the people from the Great Yu Dynasty have already started collecting the bodies," the scout respectfully said.


    Zhong Shan nodded at the scout and waved his hand, dismissing him.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan sighed softly, "It seems that I have overestimated Wu''an before. He''s so slow to react, only starting to collect bodies now. This person is invincible, against all reason!"


    Invincible, against all reason?


    Zhao Chuan nced strangely at the others, and the other generals were equally puzzled.


    "General!" Shui Wuhuan looked at Zhong Shan with some questions.


    But Zhong Shan was in a great mood now, "From now on, call me Grand Marshal!"


    "Yes, Grand Marshal!" The generals immediately responded.


    Grand Marshal? Does that mean the general is already confident of victory?


    "Grand Marshal, you just said this person is invincible, against all reason. Does that mean the Grand Marshal already has a n?" Shui Wuhuan asked excitedly.


    "I had the n all along, but I didn''t expect the enemy general to be so ipetent, which makes it even easier to deal with. By the way, how did the task I assigned you go?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The two groups of remaining troops should arrive soon. Although they are heavily injured, with enough time and sufficient medicine, they should be able to recover. There are a total of three hundred and fifty thousand troops," Shui Wuhuan said.


    "Good. Wuhuan, these three hundred and fifty thousand troops will temporarily be under yourmand. Together with the previous ones, you nowmand a total of four hundred and fifty thousand troops," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Thank you, Grand Marshal!" Shui Wuhuan took a deep breath, deeply moved.


    While Zhao Chuan and the others looked envious. How could they not be envious? Commanding four hundred and fifty thousand troops? Although it''s only a temporary appointment for now, once you achieve meritorious deeds in the future, the court will recognize your existence, and then the official appointment wille.


    Zhong Shan appointed Shui Wuhuan because he had already seen through him during this period and felt that he could be his ally. It was also time to cultivate his power.


    Four hundred and fifty thousand troops might not seem like much now, but they would definitely be of great use in the future.


    "Grand Marshal, what do we do next?" Zhao Chuan asked immediately.


    "We wait!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Wait for what?" Zhao Chuan asked, puzzled.


    "We wait for recovery and training. I want the forty-five thousand remaining troops to be elite soldiers, and at the same time, I''m waiting for a certain result," Zhong Shan smiled.


    After the forty-five thousand remaining troops were well-rested,bined with the first battalion of the Grand Xuan Army, Zhong Shan would have a total of six hundred and fifty thousand troops.


    Zhao Chuan was filled with emotion. The prince asked him to assess this person''s ability. If he was incapable, he would be dismissed at the right time. Dismissal? There''s no talk of dismissal now. How long has it been? His power is already enough to surpass the first battalion of the Grand Xuan Army, and even the soldiers of the first battalion listen more to Zhong Shan than to himself and the prince.


    "What result are we waiting for?" Zhao Chuan asked.


    "Hehe, that''s also the task I''m about to assign to you." Zhong Shan said.


    After saying that, Zhong Shan waved his hand, and four hundred invitations appeared on the table in front of him.


    "What is this?" Zhao Chuan asked, puzzled.


    "These four hundred invitations are to be sent out immediately. They are for the leaders of all the sects, the leaders of all the people''s groups, and the heads of all the families in the vicinity. One for each person, ording to the previous information, I have sorted out four hundred invitations," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "What are these for?" Zhao Chuan asked, puzzled.


    "These four hundred invitations are for our army, our siege army. Send someone to deliver each letter directly into the hands of the recipient, without any deviation on the way. Only when it''s confirmed that each person has received it, can youe back. This is of the utmost importance, and there can be no mistakes," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan immediately responded.

 Chapter 275: Mobilizing the People as Bandits

    <h4>Chapter 275: Mobilizing the People as Bandits</h4>


    Twenty dayster, in the Lord''s Mansion of Wushuang City, Wu''an sat at the main seat, holding a teacup in his hand, while some generals in front of him were extremely worried.


    "General, what should we do? It''s been twenty days, and Zhong Shan''s two hundred thousand troops are gone? Vanished into thin air? And every time there''s a clue, the scouts disappear. What should we do?" a general asked, his face full of worry.


    "This Zhong Shan, can''t be found? If we can''t find him, then forget it, he''lle looking for me," Wu''an frowned.


    "But..." the general wanted to say something more.


    "When King Julu mobilized eight million troops to search, Zhong Shan still managed to slip away with some old, weak, sick, and young under our noses. With those scouts, it''s impossible to find him. Zhong Shan''s skill at hiding his troops is unparalleled. There''s no need for us to waste any more effort," Wu''an said.


    "But, are we just going to sit and wait for death?" the general asked.


    Click! Wu''an crushed the teacup in his hand.


    Obviously, Wu''an was also extremely anxious.


    "Wait, patience is a virtue. Zhong Shan is the reinforcement sent by the Great Luo Dynasty. His only goal is Wushuang City. He wille looking for me sooner orter," Wu''an said.


    "What should we do then?" the general asked.


    "Close the four gates tightly. No one is allowed to enter or leave without my orders. I don''t believe he can magically appear in the city," Wu''an said.


    "Yes!" the generals responded.


    Meanwhile, in a valley far to the northeast of Wushuang City.


    The valley was cylindrical in shape, with only one exit from top to bottom. The bottom of the valley had been leveled and covered with smooth white jade stones. Surrounding the valley was a circle of four hundred and one white jade thrones.


    One of them was the main seat, and the others were all guest seats.


    A circr meeting ce.


    At this moment, three hundred and eighty-six people had already sat on the white jade thrones, while fourteen people had not yet arrived.


    The three hundred-plus people were all extremely serious, each of them possessing extraordinary cultivation or prestigious status.


    Every one of them exuded an aura of dignity, including sect masters, family heads, andmunity leaders. Anyway, these people represented most of the people and sects outside Wushuang City.


    Everyone had received a letter, a letter from the Great Luo Dynasty, a letter from Zhong Shan.


    Everyone sighed slightly. The letter was too tempting, making it impossible for them not toe. Out of four hundred guest seats, only fourteen were vacant, indicating the allure and quality of this letter.


    Everyone patiently waited for the arrival of the main seat.


    At this moment, suddenly, one person looked up, and then arge number of people followed suit.


    Two figures slowly descended from above the valley.


    One was dressed in Confucian robes but exuded a domineering aura, while the other was dressed in ck clothes like a bodyguard.


    The man in Confucian robes was Zhong Shan, and the man in ck clothes was Ah Da.


    As they descended towards the main seat, everyone in the valley stood up to show respect. Zhong Shan looked at the people in the valley and slowlynded.


    Standing at the main seat, Ah Da stood behind the white jade main seat, leaving only Zhong Shan in front of the main seat.


    Three hundred and eighty-six people, many of them could see Zhong Shan''s cultivation level. Sixth level of Golden Core? Is he...?


    "I am Zhong Shan, and I greet everyone!" Zhong Shan smiled as he spoke.


    Zhong Shan? Everyone stared at Zhong Shan with wide eyes. Is he really Zhong Shan? How is that possible? He''s Zhong Shan?


    Because the signature on each person''s letter was Zhong Shan, themander of the reinforcement from the Great Luo Dynasty.


    "Would this person be themander-in-chief?" Clock Mountain looked at the attitudes of the crowd, one by one. He smiled and said, "Please be seated," amidst their uncertain expressions. With a mixture of surprise and doubt, the people sat down.


    "My cultivation as a Nascent Soul practitioner can bepared to the imperial power of the Great Yu Dynasty. I hope you won''t mind my level of cultivation," Clock Mountain said.


    "Yes," the crowd responded. However, their eyes still held a hint of disbelief. After all, Nascent Soul practitioners were already formidable, and what cultivation level could Clock Mountain possess? Golden Core?


    Clock Mountain didn''t dwell on this topic. He directly addressed the main issue: "Time is limited. Let''s discuss what I mentioned in the letter."


    The people''s expressions became solemn as they listened attentively.


    "Commander, do you want to borrow the people of the Dual City and the strength of the surrounding sects and families?" someone asked.


    "Hehe, I suppose many of you still feel indignant about losing your possessions. Why should others upy what belongs to you?" Clock Mountain replied.


    Hearing this, the people furrowed their brows.


    "That''s because the Great Yu Army is invading," someone said.


    "Yes, it''s an invasion by the Great Yu Army. This is war. Now, what''s in the Dual City and what those countless people take out of it no longer concerns you. It''s no longer yours," Clock Mountain exined.


    Although some felt resentful, they had to ept this reality.


    "Do you think you and the leaders you represent will be content with this?" Clock Mountain asked with a smile.


    "Commander, are you suggesting that we should risk our lives for you with only our discontent?" someone asked.


    "Haha, of course not. Without sufficient benefits, who would dare to risk their lives? It''s a matter of life and death, and one wrong move could mean utter destruction," Clock Mountainughed.


    Although some couldn''t understand Clock Mountain''s words, it wasn''t the right time to question them. Shouldn''t he be saying something more reassuring? Themander made seemingly harmless things sound so terrifying. Who would dare to go then?


    "In short, I''m offering rewards for killing soldiers of the Great Yu Army. Ten high-grade spirit stones for killing a Foundation Establishment cultivator, one hundred for a Golden Core cultivator, and a thousand for a Nascent Soul cultivator. The rewards increase ordingly," Clock Mountain announced.


    Upon hearing this, some people were already tempted. After all, the rewards were quite generous. They would discuss it when they returned, and many of their subordinates would likely choose to take the risk.


    However, many others frowned and pondered. Was it really worth it? It seemed dangerous.


    "Of course, if you capture soldiers of the Great Yu Army, we won''t interfere with what''s in their storage bracelets. You can interrogate them yourselves to find out. How you do it will depend on your abilities," Clock Mountain continued with a smile.


    Upon hearing this, the eyes of the crowd lit up. The Dual City had been invaded, and the storage bracelets of these soldiers contained a lot of treasure. Everyone was moved.


    Seeing the hopeful eyes of the crowd, Clock Mountain took advantage of the situation and said, "Furthermore, except for the original government offices and military camps, you have two days to plunder anything you want. Whatever you obtain will be yours."


    Obtain it, and it''s yours? Hearing this, almost half of the people stood up eagerly, even those with extraordinary cultivation levels were breathing a bit heavily.


    Obtain it, and it''s yours? Isn''t this encouragingwlessness? The Dual City is a treasure trove, and two days to plunder? By then, even some good houses would surely be demolished and seized. This, this...


    "How about it?" Clock Mountain smiled.


    "Commander, are you serious?" someone asked excitedly.


    "Absolutely. I can provide you with written guarantees, but there are two conditions," Clock Mountain said with a furrowed brow.


    "Commander, please go ahead!" the man said, while the others also focused on Clock Mountain.


    "First, no killing! Second, no looting!" Clock Mountain said solemnly.


    "Huh?" Everyone was slightly stunned.


    "What if the people in the city try to kill us?" someone asked.


    "If they attack you, you have the right to defend yourselves. But as long as they don''t resist, you must refrain from killing and looting," Clock Mountain exined.


    "Understood, Commander!" a few people responded excitedly.


    "What about the sects?" one sect leader asked. After all, some sects were located outside of the Dual City.


    "Invite them, and naturally, they''re included," Clock Mountain said with a smile.


    "Thank you, Commander!" everyone bowed in unison, their eyes filled with joy.


    "Alright, follow my arrangements when the timees!" Clock Mountain said.


    ...����After sending away the three hundred plus people, only Clock Mountain and Ah Da remained in the valley.


    "Sir, this will bring nearly four million soldiers," Ah Da said excitedly.


    "Four million? They''re just a bunch of opportunists. Are they even considered soldiers? They''re just a bunch of greedy people," Clock Mountain said.


    "Huh?" Ah Da paused slightly.


    "However, when ites to seizing treasures and valuables from the city, they''ll be like a stampede of mad bulls, rushing into the city recklessly. That''s the effect I want. I want their enthusiasm, their greed," Clock Mountain said solemnly.


    "Sir, are you using their greed to open the gates of the Dual City for us?" Ah Da analyzed.


    "Exactly. Human potential is immeasurable, especially when greed is stirred up. People will go to any lengths when they''re greedy, and the Dual City is nothing without its officials. What are two million city residentspared to that? They should have considered this oue when they betrayed us. There''s no need to show mercy. As for the other things, they haven''t lost anything. It''s just a matter of returning things to their rightful owners. It''s not like we''re giving them much, just allowing them to reim their own belongings," Clock Mountainughed.


    "Using their own belongings to bribe them, sir, Ah Da admires you!" Ah Da smiled immediately.


    "Hehe! If they don''t fight desperately, then these things will belong to someone else. So, they''ll definitely fight desperately to reim them," Clock Mountain chuckled.


    "But why did you make those two rules? No killing and no looting?" Ah Da asked puzzled.


    "Killing? Those two million people in the city will eventually be citizens of the Great Yu Dynasty. We can''t kill them. As for looting, it''s to prevent morale from copsing," Clock Mountain exined after some thought.


    "Morale copse? Preventing morale copse?" Ah Da shook his head with a puzzled expression, clearly not understanding.

 Chapter 276: Ambush on All Sides

    <h4>Chapter 276: Ambush on All Sides</h4>


    Three dayster, at the north of the Dual City.


    With the First Battalion of the Great Mystery Army, totaling two hundred thousand soldiers, Clock Mountain advanced step by step. Following the two hundred thousand troops was a floating ind, a very small one with only a small house on it. Clock Mountain borrowed it from a sect.


    Not far away, Clock Mountain waved his hand.


    "Roar~~~~~~"


    The two hundred thousand troops halted simultaneously with a thunderous roar.


    Meanwhile, Clock Mountain stood with Ah Da atop a mountain peak, gazing at the once-mighty Dual City from a distance.


    The gates of the Dual City were tightly shut, and the city walls were brimming with soldiers, emanating an aura of solemnity.


    "Dual City? How should we attack such a celestial city?" Clock Mountain smiled, apparently prepared, just engaging in conversation with Ah Da to pass the time.


    "Dual City''s walls are solid and imprable. Only the city gates offer a chance of entry, but breaking through them requires someone with absolute power like Emperor Nn or King Great Mystery. Typically, cities can only be attacked from the air," Ah Da exined.


    "From the air?" Clock Mountain chuckled.


    "Yes, for example, in the case of the Dual City, there''s a massive array in the sky that prevents people from leaving. Anyone who flies up will be struck down by thunderbolts. However, people from the outside can enter, provided they leave no traces of magic. If there''s any trace of magic, they''ll still be struck down by the thunderbolts," Ah Da said.


    "So, anyone flying in the air must fall freely like raindrops, or else casting spells will trigger a response from the array, resulting in being struck down," Clock Mountain said.


    "Yes, I''ve heard that casting spells will cause a slight disturbance in the surrounding naturalws, which will alert the array. But if no spells are cast, they''ll still be shot down by the city''s arrows. There aren''t many people who can fly onto the city walls to begin with. And those few who do risk their lives, as they''ll undoubtedly be shot down by the arrows. So, capturing a city like this is extremely difficult," Ah Da exined.


    "Difficult? So what? We''re about to take the city," Clock Mountain smiled.


    "But, sir, who knows how many people will die, and they''ll all be civilians," Ah Da sighed.


    "They volunteered for this. It''s their own greed that brought them here. Whether they live or die is still in their hands. I didn''t force them; it''s up to their own hearts. If they''re not greedy, they won''t have to die. If they are, then life and death are up to fate. As the saying goes, fortune favors the bold. After they go back, they''ll undoubtedly distribute the spoils among their subordinates. The first batch of sacrificialmbs will undoubtedly receive the most treasures. I''ll just watch them coldly. Compassion has no ce in warfare," Clock Mountain said.


    "Yes!" Ah Da nodded.


    Compassion has no ce in warfare. Indeed, what''s the point of waging war if one is still hesitant and worried?


    With a gentle push of his hand, Clock Mountain swiftly maneuvered the small floating ind forward, with several generals quickly propelling it. It floated to a spot in the central area between Clock Mountain and the Dual City, hovering in the sky.


    The generals quickly retreated, leaving the small floating ind suspended in mid-air, with only a basic house on top.


    Clock Mountain waved his hand lightly, and a soldier flew towards the Dual City with a letter in hand.


    When the two hundred thousand troops appeared in the distance to the north of the Dual City, someone noticed.


    At the Lord''s Mansion of the Dual City.


    "Report~~~~~~"


    A long announcement echoed outside the Lord''s Mansion, followed by a soldier swiftly rushing into the main hall, interrupting a discussion between War An and a group of generals. War An immediately turned to look at the soldier.


    "Report to themander, arge number of soldiers from the Great Luo Dynasty have appeared to the north of the city, led by Clock Mountain," the soldier immediately reported.


    "Hmm..." War An stood up at once.


    "What?" War An was somewhat incredulous.


    "Arge number of soldiers from the Great Luo Dynasty have appeared to the north of the city, led by Clock Mountain," the soldier repeated.


    "Clock Mountain? Is he nning to attack the city? How many men has he brought?" War An asked.


    "I''m not sure, it''s too far to see clearly. And we don''t know if there are troops hidden in the mountains and forests. Scouts have been dispatched to investigate," the soldier exined.


    "Let''s go!" War An said, leading the generals to fly towards the northern city gate.


    Before long, they arrived at the northern city gate, standing on top of the city wall, gazing into the distance at therge number of soldiers and the conspicuously floating ind.


    A floating ind?


    How could there be a floating ind in the midst of the two armies?


    War An could tell at a nce that it was the most basic kind of floating ind, without any power or threat.


    At that moment, a scout returned.


    "Report to themander, the other side has been investigated. It''s a force of two hundred thousand troops, likely the First Battalion of the Great Mystery Army," the scout said, kneeling.


    "Understood," War An nodded, dismissing the scout.


    Then, another soldier flew over from a distance. However, this time it was an enemy soldier.


    "Who goes there?" someone on the city wall shouted.


    "I''m a messenger of themander. I have a letter to deliver to General War An," the soldier called back.


    "Throw it up to the city," the person on the city wall ordered.


    "Phew!" The soldier tossed a letter up to the city wall and then turned and left.


    In times of war, messengers were not to be killed, so the soldier returned safely.


    On the city wall, everyone looked at War An, awaiting his response to the letter in his hand.


    War An''s expression was somewhat strange, but he still opened the letter and carefully read it.


    Since our parting in the Celestial City, General War An''s charisma remains unforgettable to Clock Mountain. I once wished to have a meeting with General War An, but s, Clock Mountain was of humble status back then,cking power and freedom. Even now, he still carries a sense of longing and regret.


    The Grand Marshal Yi Yan once invited me to join the Great Yu Dynasty. Clock Mountain did consider it, but the internal affairs of the Great Yu Dynasty wereplex. Joining would mean certain doom, and even then, I would still be besieged by the eight million troops of King Ju Lu. There was a lingering sense of sorrow.


    With the princess''s rtionship, King Great Mystery bestowed upon me two hundred thousand troops. However, it seems that King Great Mystery had already made arrangements. Clock Mountain is just a puppet, with the true control of the army in the hands of others. There''s a slight sense of frustration.


    Today, to show sincerity, I have openly brought these two hundred thousand troops before General War An. I have borrowed a floating ind and hope to invite General War An for a discussion. There will be only three people present: you, me, and Ah Da.


    Clock Mountain bows!


    Reading Clock Mountain''s letter, War An felt uncertain.


    "General," a general called out.


    War An handed the letter to him, and several generals read it in turn.


    "General, could it be that Clock Mountain intends to defect to our side?" one excitedly eximed.


    "If the general can persuade Clock Mountain to surrender, it would certainly be a great achievement," another said.


    "Something doesn''t seem right. There might be some kind of conspiracy," another general doubted.


    "Conspiracy? Whatever the conspiracy, with his two hundred thousand troops in front of us, nothing can go wrong. Two hundred thousand troops can''t possibly take the Dual City," another general asserted.


    "General, What Do You Think?"


    "General, what do you think?" someone asked again.


    "I intend to take a look," Wu An replied after some thought.


    "But, sir, I have a feeling this is a trick by Zhong Shan. You shouldn''t risk your life," the man cautioned.


    "Risk my life? This isn''t even dangerous. That floating ind, I cane and go as I please. Still, we need to be cautious. Mobilize all the resting troops. Gather 600,000 soldiers at the northern city wall. Keep a close watch on Zhong Shan''s forces. Without my order, no one is allowed to leave the city or start a battle," Wu Anmanded.


    "Yes, sir!" everyone responded promptly.


    With these orders, everyone felt relieved. There was no chance of failure. 600,000 troops to watch over 200,000, plus the natural fortress of Wushuang City. No matter how crafty Zhong Shan might be, he couldn''t possibly pull off any tricks.


    The soldiers in Wushuang City were mobilized, and the numbers on the city walls increased. The scouts soon reported the data back to Zhong Shan, who was far away.


    "Sir, just as you said, there are indeed 600,000 troops at the northern gate. The other three gates can have at most 300,000 each," Ah Da said excitedly.


    "Yes, let''s go. To show our sincerity, we will first go to the floating ind," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Yes, sir!" Ah Da replied with excitement.


    Zhong Shan and Ah Da slowly flew towards the floating ind. Meanwhile, at the northern city wall, Wu An also saw the two figures flying from a distance.


    "Remember, keep a close watch on those 200,000 soldiers," Wu An gave his final order.


    "Yes, sir!" the generals replied.


    Nodding, Wu An felt assured that everything was in order. He stepped out of the city wall and slowly flew towards the floating ind in the distance.


    Southern Wushuang City, in a Valley


    In a valley in southern Wushuang City, Shui Wuhen was leading 150,000 remnants of his army. No, they should now be called elite soldiers. There were 150,000 troops ambushed in the valley, and another 300,000 whose whereabouts were unknown, having been arranged by Zhong Shan. Not far away, a few figures flew towards them. These were people who had met with Zhong Shan a few days ago in the valley among a group of over 300.


    "General Shui, how much longer do we have to wait? We''ve already dyed for half an hour. We still need to open the southern city gate. Isn''t this wasting our time? Including the time for the siege, we''ll only have two days in the city. Are you nning to drag this out until nightfall?" one man asked anxiously.


    "Yes, General Shui. The Grand Marshal told us to wait, but some people are already getting impatient. If you don''t give the order to attack, they''ll go on their own," another man said.


    Shui Wuhen looked at them and sighed slightly but said, "Wait a little longer for the Grand Marshal''s signal. We also need you to keep the original citizens of Wushuang City under control. Otherwise, if we are exposed, all our efforts will be wasted."


    "Sigh!" the group sighed deeply but had no choice.


    Two days. Two days to plunder everything except the government offices. There were treasures in some ces, and many people knew where they were. They were deeply afraid of being outdone.

 Chapter 277: Blossoming on All Sides

    <h4>Chapter 277: Blossoming on All Sides</h4>


    Zhong Shan and Ah Da were the first tond on the floating ind. Shortly after, Wu An swiftly arrived as well. The moment Wu An set foot on the ind, he meticulously inspected it with his spiritual sense, scrutinizing every de of grass, every pebble, and every clod of earth from inside out.


    Finding nothing amiss, Wu An confirmed that this floating ind was indeed the simplest kind. It had a "Levitation Array," a small house on top, and a g array of very weak power.


    "General Wu An, long time no see!" Zhong Shan greeted with a smile.


    "Mr. Zhong Shan, it has indeed been a long time!" Wu An responded with a smile as well.


    Observing Zhong Shan''s cultivation, Wu An couldn''t help but feel ufortable. Jindan stage? How could someone at the Jindan stage be on an equal footing with him? No, this man was even apanied by a Huangji stage expert as his bodyguard. This person was far from ordinary.


    "It has been several years since we parted in Sky City. I have prepared some tea in my humble abode. Pleasee in, General, so we may discuss some private matters," Zhong Shan said.


    "Please," Wu An agreed promptly.


    Wu An had already scanned everything inside with his spiritual sense, seeing it all clearly, so he had no objections.


    Inside, there were two long tables facing each other. Zhong Shan and Wu An took their seats, and Ah Da poured tea for both of them. After serving the tea, Ah Da stood behind Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan deliberately nced outside, particrly at the Daxuan Army''s First Camp behind him. Then he furrowed his brow slightly and said, "General Wu An, do you think our conversation should be kept from outsiders?"


    "Of course," Wu An nodded immediately, looking at Zhong Shan with some excitement. Was Zhong Shan really nning to defect?


    Zhong Shan gave Ah Da a signal, and with a wave of his hand, Ah Da activated the g array outside. Suddenly, arge amount of ck mist surged, covering the house on the floating ind. It blocked out sound and isted any spiritual sense from entering or exiting.


    Wu An felt a twinge of unease since his spiritual sense couldn''t prate the array. However, recognizing it as a low-level array, he suppressed his difort.


    "Mr. Zhong Shan, on behalf of the Dayu Empire, I sincerely invite you to join us," Wu An said immediately.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly, appearing hesitant.


    "What''s wrong?" Wu An asked, puzzled.


    "But, the King of Julu...," Zhong Shan said with a troubled expression.


    "Oh, Mr. Zhong Shan, you need not worry about that. The prince has already let go of the past. He only sought you out back then because he was concerned you might take the position of Grand Marshal ahead of him. Now that he himself is a Grand Marshal, those old grudges have vanished," Wu An reassured him with a smile.


    "Oh? The prince has be a Grand Marshal? One of them?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, this time for the campaign against the Daluo Dynasty, the Dayu Empire appointed two Grand Marshals: the Prince of Julu as the Northern Expedition Grand Marshal and Tie Xue as the National Defense Grand Marshal. So, Mr. Zhong Shan, you can rest assured," Wu An exined.


    Zhong Shan paused slightly, thinking, "What is Nn Piaoxue up to? Two Grand Marshals?"


    From Wu An''s words, Zhong Shan gleaned a lot of information. At the very least, the appointment of two Grand Marshals carried significant implications.


    "But I am deeply indebted to the princess. This...," Zhong Shan continued to procrastinate.


    "Once we conquer the Daluo Dynasty, the princess will be yours, Mr. Zhong Shan. Besides, didn''t this Ah Da used to follow the princess? Now he follows you, doesn''t he?" Wu An said with a smile.


    Meanwhile, at the Southern City


    While Zhong Shan and Wu An continued their verbal sparring, a different scene was unfolding in the south of the city.


    Shui Wuhen had sent out arge number of scouts. They suddenly noticed the thick ck mist billowing from the north of the city. This was the result of the g array being activated on the floating ind where Zhong Shan was, blocking external spiritual sense and serving as a signal to Shui Wuhen.


    The signal was quickly ryed several times by the scouts until it finally reached Shui Wuhen. He stood before more than a dozen men.


    "General, an hour has already passed. We only have 24 hours in total, and we need to ount for the time it takes to siege the city and deal with the Dayu forces. There''s not much time left. You need to give the order now," one man said anxiously.


    Shui Wuhen had just seen the ck light signal from the scouts in the distance.


    "Alright, we won''t dy any longer. However, you must all act with one concerted effort. Any hesitation and everything will be for naught. Open the city gates. Remember, your task is to open the gates," Shui Wuhen ordered.


    "Yes, General, you can count on us!" the men responded excitedly before quickly flying off in all directions.


    On the Southern City Wall


    On the southern city wall, Mo Baili was in charge. He was the one who had oncepeted with Shui Tianya for the position of the Wushuang City Lord.


    "Something''s not right, my lord," a general said to Mo Baili.


    "What''s wrong?" Mo Baili asked, puzzled.


    "Just now, I clearly saw someone in that direction, but now they''re suddenly gone. It''s strange, very strange!" the general reported.


    "Then send scouts to check it out," Mo Baili suggested.


    "I did, but when they got there, they found no one. Did I see it wrong?" the general frowned.


    "Rx, you know the defenses of Wushuang City. There''s nothing to worry about," Mo Baili reassured him.


    "Hmm," the general nodded, though still feeling uneasy.


    "The southern city wall is the most fortified. That''s why we only need 200,000 troops here. And now that everyone is fully deployed, what is there to worry about?" Mo Baili said.


    "You''re right, my lord," the general conceded.


    Just as the general finished speaking, a lookout suddenly shouted, "Enemy attack!"


    Mo Baili turned his head and, to his astonishment, saw countless figures emerging in the distance. No, they weren''t far off; they were right there, suddenly appearing in massive numbers.


    How could this be? How did so many people suddenly appear? Did they fall from the sky? Impossible! How could there suddenly be so many troops?


    Even if organized, it would take half a day to gather so many people.


    "My lord, they dug tunnels! Look over there! The mountains have been hollowed out. They were hiding inside all this time. I wasn''t seeing things earlier; there really were people nearby!" the general shouted.


    "Quickly, notify themander that we''re under attack! The rest of you, prepare to defend and resist immediately!" Mo Baili shouted.


    After giving the orders, Mo Baili turned and fled. He was good at governance, but fighting was not his strength.


    The Southern City Under Siege


    "Aaaahhhhhhhhh!"


    "Attack! Attack!"


    The city''s southern side was quickly surrounded by a massive throng of enemies, their cries echoing to the sky. In an instant, the southern part of the city was densely packed with invaders.


    "Shoot! Shoot!" the soldiers shouted urgently.


    As the enemy surged forward, some were quickly killed, but in the overwhelming tide of people, their deaths were like small ripples in the vast ocean, hardly making any impact.


    In the blink of an eye, the enemy was close. Those capable of flight quickly gathered and began flying towards the city wall.


    "Shoot! Shoot! Stop shooting at those below and aim at the ones flying!" the general yelled.


    How could this happen? How could this be? So many people?


    Looking at the sea of ck heads, the general felt his scalp tingle. One million, two million, three million��no! There were nearly four million of them here.


    How Did So Many People Suddenly Appear?


    How did so many people suddenly appear? What is this? Reinforcements from the Daluo Dynasty?


    No, it''s not reinforcements; they''remoners, the lowest of the low. What madness has possessed them? What are they doing? Have they lost their minds? Do they not value their lives?


    What did theirmander Zhong Shan give them? These people are like crazed bulls, relentlessly charging forward.


    "Shoot, shoot quickly!" the general shouted.


    But there were too many people, and those who could fly were gathering in the air. The outer ranks used magical treasures to block the powerful arrows until they reached a height level with the city walls. Then they abandoned their defenses and descended into the city.


    "Shoot, shoot, shoot!" the general kept yelling.


    "Ahhh, ahhh, ahhh..."


    The screams were unending. War is cruel, even with such a well-executed n, it remains brutal. In the blink of an eye, many had died, but ultimately, some hadnded inside the city.


    "Not good! Someone''s in the city!" a junior officer shouted.


    "First Battalion, Second Battalion, get down there and kill them!" the general bellowed.


    Once on the ground, using the powerful arrows again was impractical. As long as theynded inside the city, they were no longer bound by the sky array and could use their magic to continue resisting the arrows.


    The First and Second Battalions went down to deal with the intruding civilians, leaving fewer archers on the walls, which allowed even more people to fly in.


    The first thing those who flew in did was rush towards the city gates. Opening the gates would mean victory.


    The First and Second Battalions also had the task of guarding the gates. Organized armies are strong, but how does that help when more and more people keeping in? The ones who could fly carried those who couldn''t and threw them into the city, quickly filling it up.


    More and more people entered the city, filling the general''s heart with dread.


    "Break down the gates!" the intruders shouted as they rushed towards the gates.


    At the gates, only the First and Second Battalions stood, a mere 20,000 soldiers. Meanwhile, the number of people entering the city kept increasing. Although many were being cut down, people continued to surge towards the gates, getting closer and closer. They just needed to open the gates.


    The general on the wall was filled with anxiety. This was happening too fast. How could things change so drastically in an instant? Why weren''t these civilians afraid of dying? What had driven them to such fearlessness? I need reinforcements!


    Reinforcements?


    At the east and west gates,rge numbers of troops also appeared. Shui Wuhen''s 450,000-strong army had divided, sending 150,000 to each gate, not to breach them but to tie down the soldiers on those walls.


    East Gate City Wall


    "Report, arge number of civilians are attacking the southern wall. General Ma requests urgent reinforcements," a soldier reported, kneeling.


    "Nonsense! Civilians attacking the city? We''re facing regr troops here. We haven''t asked for reinforcements. What does General Ma think he''s doing?" the officer on the wall red angrily.


    North Gate


    Half an hourter, at the north gate.


    "Report, arge number of civilians are attacking the southern wall. General Ma requests urgent reinforcements," a soldier reported, kneeling.


    The officers on the wall exchanged worried nces.


    "Themander is still negotiating on the floating ind. Civilians attacking the city?" one general frowned.


    "Something''s wrong. This is Zhong Shan''s trap. We''ve fallen for it," another general said.


    "Take 200,000 troops and support them immediately. We will keep 400,000 here to hold back the 200,000 enemy soldiers in front," the general ordered promptly.


    "Yes!" Given the urgency, the soldier epted themand without hesitation.


    "Quick, notify themander," the general said anxiously.

 Chapter 278: Securing Wushuang City

    <h4>Chapter 278: Securing Wushuang City</h4>


    "Quick, notify themander!" the general ordered urgently.


    Swiftly, a messenger took to the skies, heading toward the floating ind. However, the ind was shrouded in a barrier that blocked any spiritual sensing. As the messenger approached the ind:


    "Fire!"


    With a shout from Zhao Chuan of the Daxuan Army''s First Battalion, a volley of arrows surged towards the approaching figure. The messenger, merely at the early Nascent Soul stage, had faced many battles, but he had never encountered a barrage of this scale.


    Tens of thousands of arrows, at least ten thousand, flew towards him. Terrified, the messenger turned to flee, activating all his defensive artifacts, weapons, and shields. But how could his feeble defenses withstand the power of ten thousand arrows? Even a thousand would be too much. In the blink of an eye, he was struck down, falling lifeless to the ground, while Zhao Chuan led his troops to secure the area around the floating ind.


    On the Northern City Wall


    "General, what should we do? The enemy is advancing!" one of the officers eximed anxiously.


    "We can''t! Themander ordered us not to leave the city," another officer replied, equally concerned.


    "But if we can''t notify themander, and the gates are breached, we''ll lose the city!"


    "If the gates fall, won''t themander be in danger?"


    "Themander is at the Imperial Realm level. While he can''t deal with an army of 200,000 alone, if he needs to retreat safely, no one can stop him."


    "But what do we do now? The southern gate is under attack, and the east and west gates are also in crisis."


    "We still have 400,000 soldiers here. We can''t afford to lose more. Besides, the south is only being attacked by civilians. I''ve already sent 200,000 troops. There shouldn''t be a problem... possibly, there shouldn''t be any problems."


    At the Southern Gate


    From outside, the situation at the southern gate seemed unclear. People saw only a steady stream of theirrades scaling the walls, unaware that many inside had already fallen. They continued to send more people into the city.


    Once inside, the attackers had no escape. They had to fight. Having already killed many of the Dayu soldiers, if they failed to break through the gate, they would face certain death. The battle within the city was brutal beyond words.


    On the walls, the general screamed orders, but there were simply too many enemies. Four million��how could they kill them all?


    Finally, after over two hours of battle, the reinforcements arrived. A vast army rushed forward from the distance.


    "Boom!"


    The southern gate of Wushuang City fell with a thunderous crash.


    The southern gate had been breached. Countless civilians surged into the city. As they poured in, they were stunned by the sight: bodies, countless bodies. Friends and family who had gone before them were all dead. Dead?


    Who had killed them? The Dayu soldiers, it was them! It was them!


    "Ahhhhhhh!"


    With a heart-wrenching scream, the assault on the Dayu soldiers began anew.


    "Kill! Kill! Kill!" The civilians, four million strong, flooded into the city, attacking any Dayu soldier they encountered. With the civilians now inside, Shui Wuhen, following Zhong Shan''s orders, led his remaining 150,000 troops into the city as well.


    Thanks to the preceding onught by the four million, Shui Wuhen''s entry into the city went smoothly.


    Entering the city, Shui Wuhen had a single task: not to kill the enemy troops, but to disrupt their formation. Whenever they encountered enemy soldiers, their task was simply to scatter them. Killing the enemy? That was the job of the vengeful advance force; it wasn''t hard for four million people to kill a few scattered soldiers.


    The strength of an army lies in its unity and coordination,bining small forces into a formidable power. Once the enemy''s formation was disrupted, they became powerless. War is extremely brutal. Once defeated, it''s nearly impossible to regain victory. The masses swarmed into the city, attacking all directions, making it easier to capture the east and west gates. Under Shui Wuhen''s coordination, a sudden volley of arrows within the city killed most of the guards behind the gates. When the soldiers from the towers came down, people were already at the gates, starting to open them.


    Defeat cascaded like andslide, and it happened too quickly. The Dayu army suddenly felt an overwhelming sense of absurdity��they had 1.5 million troops, how did they suddenly lose? When news of the south gate''s fall reached the north city tower, the generals didn''t believe it. After sending scouts to check, not long after, the east gate fell, and then the west gate fell. Before nightfall, the Daluo army was already attacking thest, the north gate.


    Messages of defeat poured in one after another, while themander was still in negotiations? Negotiations?


    The Negotiations on the Floating Ind


    At this moment, on the distant floating ind, inside a small house, Zhong Shan, Ah Da, and Wu An stood up.


    "Talking with the general has truly been enlightening for me," Zhong Shan said, sighing.


    "Haha, negotiating with Mr. Zhong Shan is one of the most satisfying experiences of my life," Wu An said modestly.


    "Well, if things go as we discussed earlier, the general''s capture of Daxuan City will be within reach. Congrattions, General," Zhong Shan said, smiling.


    "Once Daxuan City is captured, Mr. Zhong Shan will undoubtedly be the key contributor," Wu Anughed.


    Zhong Shan gave a slight smile and said humbly, "I wouldn''t darepete with the general for credit." He appeared very deferential.


    "Hahaha..." Wu Anughed heartily, clearly pleased.


    Suddenly, "Boom!" A volley of arrows shot over, instantly destroying the floating ind''s defenses. The ck energy barrier copsed immediately, and the buildings within were also reduced to rubble. In the midst of the smoke, the three flew into the sky.


    Sensing the direction from which the arrows came, it turned out to be from the north of Wushuang City.


    "Damn it!" Wu An roared angrily from the wreckage. Were his own soldiers rebelling?


    But in the next moment, Wu An saw fierce fighting on the north city tower. Several generals were locked inbat. The earlier arrow volley wasunched by a thousand brave soldiers who had risked their lives to get close to the floating ind and shoot at it, and these soldiers were quickly killed by the Daluo troops beneath the ind.


    Wu An was dumbfounded, staring at the battle on the distant city tower, an overwhelming sense of surrealism engulfing him. What was going on? This wasn''t the world he knew; what was happening?


    "We''ve been tricked!"


    Wu An''s first reaction was to quickly look at Zhong Shan, but by this time, Zhong Shan had already been taken far, far away by Ah Da.


    "Shoot!" Zhao Chuan''s voice rang out from below.


    In Wu An''s shock, 200,000 arrows came flying towards him.


    Too Late to Ponder, Quick Escape


    "Impact!" A multitude of shattered astral arrows narrowly missed Wu An''s shield, shattering it instantly. Fortunately, he was unharmed except for a slight scratch on his arm. There was no time to think, he quickly rushed towards the city tower.


    Flying towards the city tower, Wu An descended freely, knocking away the enemies surrounding his subordinates with a single palm strike. However, the response he received was one of despair. "General, we''ve lost! We''ve been defeated!"


    Looking at the countless masses in the city, Wu An suddenly felt like he was dreaming. It had been a long time since hest dreamt, but this felt surreal. Why was everything happening like this?


    "General, let''s retreat!" a general shouted at Wu An.


    At this moment, the First Battalion of the Daxuan Army, with two hundred thousand soldiers, rushed over. The gates were already open, and the battle was lost.


    "Retreat!" Wu An roared.


    With a singlemand, it seemed like Wu An had exhausted all his energy. In an instant, the leisurely atmosphere of sipping tea was reced by chaos. Everything had changed. Why did it have to be like this?


    With a singlemand to retreat, thest shred of resistance in the Dayu army disappeared. They turned and fled, but arge number of shattered astral arrows rained down, causing countless casualties.


    "Zhong Shan, I hate you!" While fleeing, Wu An yelled at Zhong Shan on a distant mountain peak.


    "General Wu An, don''t forget to attack Daxuan City!" Zhong Shanughed from atop the mountain peak.


    It was all lies, everything was a lie. Zhong Shan had never intended to help him capture Daxuan City. He had deceived Wu An. In that moment, even Wu An, an expert at the peak of the martial realm, felt his face flush red with anger. Suddenly, he felt a surge of blood in his chest, as if he were about to spit it out.


    It was all Zhong Shan''s scheme. He was deliberate, he was a fraud, the greatest fraud in the world.


    "I will avenge this one day. I will tear you apart!" Wu An fled with his remaining forces.


    "Waiting for your esteemed presence at any time!" Zhong Shan chuckled.


    Behind themander, there were still two hundred thousand remnants of the army. They fled with Wu An, followed closely by Zhong Shan''s two hundred thousand troops.


    Zhong Shan waved his hand!


    The signal to retreat spread rapidly.


    "Sir, why are we retreating? Shouldn''t we pursue victory?" Ah Da asked, puzzled.


    "Don''t chase a defeated enemy. Besides, why should I pursue? My task was only to take Wushuang City. Wu An has twenty thousand remaining troops, and there are countless scattered remnants in the city. What I want is to stabilize Wushuang City quickly." Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, sir," Ah Da nodded immediately.


    The two hundred thousand Daxuan troops quickly returned, escorting Zhong Shan into the city.


    At this moment, the two hundred thousand Daxuan soldiers were extremely excited. This was theirmander, General Zhong.


    In Wushuang City, the people were already prepared for a fierce battle, but not a single one died, not a single one was injured. They just shot some arrows, and they were inside the city?


    Wu An felt as if he had been transported to another world. Wasn''t this two hundred thousand Daxuan troops the same? It was too unreal, like a ghost.


    Regardless of whether it felt real or not, Wushuang City was captured. At the north city tower, the enemy had already retreated, leaving only the scattered remnants dispersed by Shui Wuhen''s army. Dispersed enemies meant nothing; a couple of civilians could easily defeat them.

 Chapter 279: General Zhong

    <h4>Chapter 279: General Zhong</h4>


    Wushuang City was captured, with civilians and the army together, ughtering seven hundred thousand soldiers of the Dayu army and capturing six hundred thousand. Thirty-two thousand civilians perished, while Shui Wuhen''s army suffered nearly twenty thousand casualties. Not a single soldier died from the First Battalion of the Daxuan Army.


    A bizarre and astonishing victory.


    After the statisticianspiled the results, they stood there dumbfounded for half a day. What were these results? With a loss of three hundred and forty thousand, they not only captured Wushuang City but also ughtered seven hundred thousand soldiers of the Dayu army and captured six hundred thousand? They also heavily wounded the twenty thousand soldiers taken by Wu An.


    The statisticians swallowed hard, feeling the strangeness of it all.


    General Zhong Shan''s prowess in leading troops was too remarkable. If not for the civilians, Zhong Shan''s Daxuan Army of two hundred thousand, together with the forty-five thousand Wushuang City soldiers, meaning a total of six hundred and fifty thousand troops, managed to capture Wushuang City with only twenty thousand casualties. They defeated the one million five hundred thousand defending army. It was a ssic battle of oveing the odds.


    Oveing the odds? Zhong Shan was already ustomed to it. In the mortal realm, he had achieved victories against the odds many times. Take the time before the founding of the nation, for example, when eight hundred thousand troops besieged Xuancheng, yet the eight thousand defenders still won. A hundredfold difference in strength.


    Zhong Shan''s ability to analyze and utilize his forces was thorough. He turned the entire army into martial arts experts, while the enemy, no matter howrge their army, appeared as a clumsy giant inparison.


    But what was a giantpared to Zhong Shan''s soldiers, who were martial arts experts? Despite being smaller and less powerful, they were agile and ruthless. They could blind you, sever your throat, destroy your anus, or strike your vital points, all without much effort, eventually wearing you down.


    Inside the Wushuang City Lord''s Mansion, Zhong Shan sat at themander''s table, with adoring generals standing on both sides.


    Zhao Chuan looked at Zhong Shan somewhat dazedly. Not a single soldier from the Daxuan Army died, and Wushuang City was captured? It was too unreal.


    "General, what about the six hundred thousand prisoners? Are we handing them over to the civilians who attacked the city?" Shui Wuhen frowned.


    "Of course. I made a promise, and I will naturally fulfill it. Don''t worry, the spoils taken by the civilians will be returned." Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Yes," Shui Wuhen said.


    "Has my decision been announced to the entire city?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, everyone in the city knows. Those who previously betrayed the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty willingly epted punishment. After your announcement, they felt grateful and forgave past grievances. It''s just that the civilians attacking the city were too exaggerated; they looted everything, including some decent houses, even dismantling the beams." Shui Wuhen said somewhat strangely.


    "There are only two days. It''s already been one day. They will naturally work harder. Don''t worry, these materials will be rebuilt in no time." Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded.


    "Well, Zhao Chuan, send someone to report the victory to the court and inform King Daxuan." Zhong Shan said to Zhao Chuan.


    "Yes, General!" Zhao Chuan immediately replied.


    "Bury all the city''s attacking soldiers properly and erect a monument tomemorate the martyrs in the city." Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes." Zhao Chuan immediately responded.


    Daxuan City


    In the study of the Daxuan King''s pce, the Daxuan King looked at the man kneeling in front of the desk. This man was one of Zhao Chuan''s subordinates from the First Battalion of the Daxuan Army.


    At this moment, the man was kneeling on the ground, exining everything that had happened in recent days in detail.


    The Daxuan King held a letter in his hand, patiently listening, while seven or eight people stood on either side, resembling generals or advisers.


    "My lord, this is how it happened. I have not omitted a single detail." The man said.


    "My lord, this, this, this is too exaggerated, isn''t it? The Daxuan Army suffered no losses and captured Wushuang City? Is it still the impregnable Wushuang City?" Another person beside him eximed in astonishment.


    "Yes, this, this is Zhong Shan''s first battle, fought by someone who has never fought before? It''s like... it''s like a stroke of divine intervention, unbelievable, unimaginable." Another person said.


    "I thought he could take Wushuang City, but I didn''t expect it to be so casually achieved. This battle was too beautifully fought." Another person added.


    People were discussing fervently. With only twenty thousand casualties, they managed to ughter seven hundred thousand and capture six hundred thousand. Can this still be described as a hard-fought battle? If this news were to spread to the Ancient Capital, it would surely shock the entire court.


    Zhong Shan, this is Zhong Shan?


    Everyone was astonished, but the Daxuan King calmly set down the letter in his hand and nodded. "It''s up to you. Go to the Ancient Capital and report to His Majesty. Tell him everything just as you said."


    "Yes!" The soldier who had just reported immediately responded.


    "Your Majesty?" a subordinate immediately frowned and eximed.


    But the Daxuan King had already made up his mind. No one could persuade him otherwise. Such a great victory was about to be known throughout the world��


    It had been a month since the great victory of Wushuang City.


    In front of the Wushuang City Lord''s Mansion, Zhong Shan and Ada stood on the floating ind overlooking Wushuang City.


    Under Zhong Shan''s governance, Wushuang City was quickly and orderly recovering.


    Shui Wuhen''s army, which previously numbered four hundred and thirty thousand, quickly swelled to six hundred thousand as they continued to recruit new soldiers.


    "Master, you''ve been here for an hour already." Ada asked in confusion.


    "Yes, I''m thinking about something," Zhong Shan said.


    "Do you remember the giant ape summoned by Qi Tianhou that day?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes," Ada nodded.


    "How did he summon the giant ape? Shouldn''t it have been a tiger?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s question, Ada smiled faintly. "Ah, I happen to know about this."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at Ada in surprise.


    "The tiger is the national beast of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, so anyone within ten generations of the royal bloodline has the chance to summon it. However, not everyone can do it. It''s simr to inheriting bloodlines; it needs to be triggered. As for taming the giant beast, besides summoning, there''s also taming. Like the Tiger Cavalry of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. Another method is for some people to make contracts with smaller beast ns, protecting them in exchange for assistance. Qi Tianhou might have made a contract with the ape-like beast n." Ada exined.


    "Oh? Can other people do it too?" Zhong Shan asked in amazement.


    "In the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, besides Qi Tianhou, a few others have also made contracts with smaller ns." Ada affirmed.


    "What about the wolf n?" Zhong Shan asked tentatively.


    "The wolf n? The wolf n is arge n. After all, wolves are prevalent in the Divine Land, and their presence is everywhere. It''s been a long time since I heard of anyone making a contract with the wolf n." Ada said.


    "Arge n?" Zhong Shan asked in confusion.


    "Yes, arge n. Of course, it''s slightly weaker than the national beast ns of the Three Great Dynasties. During the incident on the Heavenly Wolf Ind, when Prince Hao San was being pursued, the beast he could summon was a dragon, the strongest n. Even though the Heavenly Wolf Dynasty has lost Prince Hao San, the dragon n remains the most powerful beast n." Ada exined.


    "Dragon? The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty has tigers, the Great Departure Heavenly Dynasty has phoenixes, what about the Great Sui Heavenly Dynasty?" Zhong Shan asked. It couldn''t be the tortoise, right?


    "The Great Sui Heavenly Dynasty has crows. Various types of crows." Ada said.


    "Ravens?" Zhong Shan eximed.


    "Yes. But they are far apart from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, located at opposite ends of the Divine Land." Ada exined.


    "Ah," Zhong Shan nodded. He understood.


    "Master, do you also want a mount?" Ada chuckled.


    "Yes, I''m thinking about it. At least during battles, having an extrayer of protection would be helpful," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Then it should be a tiger. Apply for the Tiger n," Ada suggested.


    "No need. I''ve already decided on the n," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Uh, not the tiger? Then, master, are you nning to..." Ada asked in confusion.


    "Do you remember when we passed by the Jade Horizon Sectst time?" Zhong Shan smiled and asked.


    "Ah, I remember. Master understands thenguage of wolves. Are you nning to tame wolves as mounts?" Ada immediately said.


    "Correct. We''ll go there immediately. I''ll arrange things in Wushuang City tonight, and we''ll set off early tomorrow morning," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" Ada nodded immediately��


    On the second day, Zhong Shan and Ada left Wushuang City. Zhong Shan handed over Wushuang City to Shui Wuhen, and following Zhong Shan''s measures, there were no issues with defending the city for some time.


    Shui Wuhen was equally grateful to Zhong Shan for his recognition.


    Not long after Zhong Shan left, a decree arrived at Wushuang City.


    In the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, the new top scorer, Zhong Shan!


    The results of the imperial examination were all released.


    The first ce in the highest category: Zhong Shan! The top scorer.


    Second ce: Shui Jing! The second top scorer.


    Third ce: Qi Tianhou! The third top scorer!


    As for the Golden Cicada, he entered the first ce in the second category.


    Zhong Shan''s essay, arousing heaven''s wrath, was hailed as divine by one hundred thousand examinees. If it didn''t rank first, it would be against the natural order. No, the essay was against the natural order; if it didn''t rank first, nothing else would make sense.


    Shui Jing''s essaymanded respect from a thousand schrs. If it weren''t for Zhong Shan, he would have been the top scorer. But in the face of divine retribution and against the natural order, he seemed slightly inferior.


    As for Qi Tianhou and the Golden Cicada, their essays were equally brilliant, but the Golden Cicada made a mistake. The topic of this exam was ''war,'' requiring the arrogance of Qi Tianhou''s war dragon, not a picturesquendscape.


    The top scorer''s essay, "Red River Overflowing," was unparalleled!


    The top scorer, the top scorer was themander of my Wushuang City, Zhong Shan, who had just achieved a great victory with a loss of twenty thousand soldiers! Zhong, the Great Commander!


    For a moment, the entire Wushuang City was boiling. Zhong, the Great Commander, was also the top scorer? No wonder he could lead the army to capture Wushuang City. No wonder he could write essays that defied the heavens. Zhong, the Great Commander!

 Chapter 280: Blaze Fire Wolf General

    <h4>Chapter 280: ze Fire Wolf General</h4>


    Above the white clouds, Ada led Zhong Shan swiftly towards the direction of the Jade Horizon Sect.


    It had been a month and a half since they departed, and both of them were covered in dust as they hurried along.


    On the white clouds, Ada drove the cloud quickly, while Zhong Shan sat cross-legged with closed eyes, constantly practicing cultivation.


    "Master, something''s not right," Ada suddenly frowned.


    Zhong Shan gently opened his eyes, looked around, but everything seemed normal.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhong Shan asked in confusion.


    "It started in the morning. The spiritual energy in this area feels strange," Ada pondered deeply.


    "Spiritual energy?" Zhong Shan was puzzled again.


    "Yes, spiritual energy. When I passed through some ces, the spiritual energy suddenly became extremely dense, almost visible. This kind of change didn''t happenst time I came here," Ada exined.


    While Zhong Shan was still puzzled, Ada suddenly said, "Here ites again. This ce. Master, feel it."


    The white clouds stopped in mid-air, and Zhong Shan carefully felt it. Sure enough, the spiritual energy around was extremely dense, but after just a moment, it dissipated. It was as if the vapor had just condensed into water and then turned back into vapor.


    Zhong Shan stood up and looked at the scene with a puzzled expression.


    "How far is it from the Jade Horizon Sect?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "At most another day''s journey. The spiritual energy in this area has be irregr. There must be something happening here again," Ada immediately said.


    "Alright, let''s fly at full speed towards the Jade Horizon Sect," Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said.


    "Yes," Ada immediately responded��


    "Woo~~~"


    "Howl~~~"


    Not far from the Jade Horizon Sect, the sound of wolves howling came from afar.


    Through the distance, Zhong Shan could see countless wolf tribes gathered, numbering over thirty thousand, facing a hundred thousand army.


    The wolf tribes and the human army confronted each other.


    "Charge~~~"


    The human army deployed their formations, looking as if they were ready to go all out.


    "Master, it''s the Giant Deer King. And there''s Wu An," Ada immediately pointed to the distance.


    Zhong Shan also saw it.


    Over there, the human and wolf tribes confronted each other. At the forefront of the human side, on a prominent mountain peak, stood the Giant Deer King and Wu An.


    The Giant Deer King wore a cold smile. On the opposite side of the wolf tribe, stood a giant fire wolf over forty meters tall, with a red-robed imposing man standing atop it.


    The man in red robe exuded an aura of majesty and anger. However, what was strange was that this man''s ears were a pair of wolf ears. Human body, wolf ears.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan immediately analyzed it.


    The ze Fire Wolf General!


    Last time, they had only heard of the ze Fire Wolf General, the king among the wolf tribes, who hadn''t appeared, but at this moment, he was a formidable presence intimidating one side.


    At the forefront was the ze Fire Wolf General, standing on top of a giant wolf. Simrly, there was a person standing on the head of the giant wolf.


    Liu Wushuang!


    Last time, due to ignorance, he wanted to roast the ze Fire Wolf General''s son. This man, the son of the Jade Horizon Sect''s sect master, was surrounded by tens of thousands of wolves after a small wolf escaped, and ended up being enved for three years. But now, he was inexplicably standing on the head of a nearly thirty-meter-tall wolf.


    The wolf that Liu Wushuang was standing on happened to be the small wolf from the past, just muchrger now. It was unexpected that these two enemies would eventually be friends.


    "Giant Deer King, the ze Fire Mountain Range is my territory. Take your people and leave!" the ze Fire Wolf General said coldly.


    "Leave? It''s easy for you to say. If it were you, would you leave at this moment?" the Giant Deer King replied coldly.


    The ze Fire Wolf General stared at the Giant Deer King intently.


    "So, you''re not leaving?" the ze Fire Wolf General said coldly.


    "Hmph, ze Fire, don''t specifically target me. Now, multiple forces have entered the ze Fire Mountain Range. Leaving alone won''t help me at all. Besides, even if you find it, you might not necessarily get it. Why don''t we join forces and find the source together? By then, we''ll split the rewards," the Giant Deer King said.


    "Hahaha! Cooperation?" A hint of resentment shed in the eyes of the ze Fire Wolf General.


    "Anyone can cooperate with me, but not your Great Yu Dynasty. I hate the Great Yu Dynasty. If you want me to cooperate with the Great Yu Dynasty, bring me the head of Nn Piaoxue," the ze Fire Wolf General said with hatred in his voice. His eyes revealed madness, as if he wanted to choose someone to devour. Obviously, there was some unknown hatred between him and the Great Yu Dynasty.


    "Arrogant~~~" The Giant Deer King was furious.


    With a flip of his hand, the Giant Deer King pped towards the ze Fire Wolf General. As his palm struck out, wrinkles appeared in the space, and a powerful airflow instantly swept in all directions like a gale.


    A huge ck palm print formed in the air, pressing down towards the ze Fire Wolf General.


    "Hmph~~~" The ze Fire Wolf General snorted coldly, raising his hand to meet it. A surge of boundless hatred shed in his eyes as he struck out with his palm. A fiery red handprint materialized in the air, colliding with the Giant Deer King''s palm print.


    "Boom~~~" A super collision urred. The immense energy shockwave caused the wolves below to retreat slightly, creating chaos among them. Simrly, the Giant Deer King''s hundred thousand army also quickly stepped back, with those at the forefront even stumbling and dropping their weapons.


    The probing exchange between two Emperor Realm powerhouses had such an effect, demonstrating their formidable might.


    Perhaps out of consideration for their subordinates or because they felt restricted on the battlefield, the two powerhouses suddenly soared into the sky, flying high among the clouds, engaging in a fierce battle.


    From afar, Zhong Shan could only see two small ck dots, but the area around the two dots was enveloped in terrifying energy.


    Around the Giant Deer King''s body was a dark, misty environment, while around the ze Fire Wolf General was a world of fiery red mes.


    The two powerhouses attacked each other as if two terrifying environments were colliding.


    "Boom, boom, boom..." It sounded as if thunder was striking from the sky, although it was far away, the deafening sound was resounding and majestic.


    All the clouds around had been dispersed by the powerful impacts of the two, leaving the sky even clearer. However, in Zhong Shan''s eyes, it seemed even more blurry because the two kinds of energy surrounding their bodies were bing denser and denser.


    The battle above grew increasingly intense.


    Meanwhile, below, Wu An suddenly looked towards where Liu Wushuang was.


    "Is this the son of the ze Fire Wolf General?" Wu An suddenly sneered.


    "Be on guard!" Liu Wushuang suddenly spoke up.


    "Hululu~~~"


    "Hulululu~~~"


    ... All the wolves showed a snarling expression, ring at Wu An not far away. Both Liu Wushuang and the wolves sensed Wu An''s ill intentions.


    ncing unexpectedly at Liu Wushuang, Wu An smiled and said, "I didn''t expect the ze Fire Wolf General to be so willing. His wife died, and yet he''s willing to let his only son be ridden like a mount."


    "Roar~~~" The small wolf snarled angrily at Wu An.


    "Do you know him?" Liu Wushuang asked coldly.


    "Of course, the scar on his left ear was left by me back then," Wu An said with a wicked smile.


    "Roar~~~" The small wolf suddenly became agitated, as if it was about to charge up immediately.


    "Don''t let him provoke you. We''ll settle this scoreter," Liu Wushuang said to the wolf beneath her.


    "Hululu~~" The small wolf gradually calmed down, showing no more signs of anger.


    With a slight smile, Wu An stepped forward, flying quickly towards Liu Wushuang''s direction.


    Seeing Wu An flying over, the wolves knew his intentions. He wanted to capture the ze Fire Wolf General''s son to use as leverage against him. At that moment, all the wolf ns became furious. Those capable of spitting fireballs began to spew them wildly towards the ze Fire Wolf General, while those with higher cultivation stomped their feet, causing endless mes to envelop the surroundings.


    In an instant, mes surged. The entire area seemed to be engulfed in endless mes, and the air distorted.


    However, Wu An''s speed was too fast. This was the Emperor Realm. Leaving behind a residual image, he had already charged into the midst of the wolf pack. Most of the fireballs spewed by the wolves missed him.


    With a sinister smile, Wu An seemed to tear through the curtain of fire and rushed straight in. He aimed for the ce where Liu Wushuang was being protected by the wolves, reaching out his hand.


    Like a raging river breaking through a dam, this was the Emperor Realm. Amidst the chaos of the army, it was as if walking in a leisurely courtyard, capturing the enemy''s leader first. Wu An aimed to capture the small wolf to threaten the ze Fire Wolf General.


    Because Wu An knew that this small wolf was the ze Fire Wolf General''s weakness.


    Standing on the wolf''s head, Liu Wushuang suddenly shed out with her knife, aiming directly at Wu An.


    However, the disparity was too great. Even with Liu Wushuang''s full-strength attack at the Nascent Soul Realm, it was like smoke before this Emperor Realm powerhouse, easily dispersed with a light flick.


    Seeing this, Wu An struck out with his palm, aiming viciously at Liu Wushuang. But, at some point, a palm suddenly appeared beside Liu Wushuang. It was Ah Da''s palm.


    "Boom~~~"


    With a loud bang, a surge of energy suddenly rushed from the small wolf''s head, dispersing the surrounding energy in all directions.


    Caught off guard, Wu An was shaken and sent flying backward, flying out of the wolf pack area and into the sky.


    In anger, the wolves opened their mouths and spewed fireballs, shooting towards Wu An, dyeing the sky crimson.


    "Boom~~~"


    Like the explosion of a sun, mes engulfed the sky.

 Chapter 281: The Beggar Buys the Tycoon

    <h4>Chapter 281: The Beggar Buys the Tycoon</h4>


    Wu An had underestimated the situation. In his view, Liu Wushuang and the son of the Fiery Wolf General were only at the Nascent Soul stage. Even if he was careless, he could easily capture them. After all, the difference between the Imperial Realm and the Nascent Soul stage was as vast as a Nascent Soul cultivator dealing with an Innate stage cultivator��it was effortlessly simple. However, that sudden strike had caught him off guard.


    The Imperial Realm��the opponent was a formidable Imperial Realm expert, not weaker than himself! In the final moment, Wu An even saw who it was��it was Ah Da! How could Ah Da be here?


    Thrown back, Wu An''s body was enveloped in a protective aura. Despite being scorched and tattered, his formidable Imperial Realm physique protected him from severe harm. However, with three thousand fireballs rushing towards him, the sky seemed aze with fiery explosions.


    "Boom~~~"


    The protective barrier shattered, and his clothing was burnt to cinders. Fortunately, his robust Imperial Realm body remained unharmed. With a wave of his hand, a strong wind swept away the mes, revealing a battered but furious Wu An.


    ring down below, Wu An''s eyes red with hatred, locking onto Zhong Shan and Ah Da standing atop the Fiery Wolf General''s son. His anger peaked upon seeing Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan!~~~" Wu An roared furiously.


    "Long time no see, General Wu An. How have you been?" Zhong Shan responded with a heartyugh.


    "How? How could I be fine?" Wu An''s heart seethed with rage. Zhong Shan had made him aughingstock. If not for being King Ju Lu''s trusted aide, he would have been punished long ago. Even so, Wu An''s hatred for Zhong Shan was boundless.


    "Do you hate me that much?" Zhong Shan asked directly with a grin.


    "I wish I could tear your flesh and drink your blood!" Wu An spat venomously.


    "Many hate me, but more love me. I am still Zhong Shan, one more of you makes no difference, one less of you is inconsequential." Zhong Shan retorted mockingly.


    Once he identified an enemy, Zhong Shan would always try to create disadvantages for them. Though it sounded like a boast, it was actually a psychological attack to destabilize his opponent. As expected, Wu An''s anger was further fueled.


    At this moment, Liu Wushuang excitedly addressed Zhong Shan, "Greetings, sir!"


    Ah Da remained vignt, keeping an eye on Wu An. Zhong Shan, feeling assured, turned to Liu Wushuang, saying, "It''s been three years, you haven''t disappointed me."


    "Thank you for your guidance back then. Without your words, I might have lost my sanity by now. It''s because of you that I and Xiao Yan became friends." Liu Wushuang expressed sincerely.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up, showing his delight. Observing Liu Wushuang''s admiration, Zhong Shan inquired, "Liu Wushuang, do you n to stay in these mountains forever?"


    "Huh? What do you mean, sir?" Liu Wushuang asked, puzzled.


    "Would you like to follow me out into the world, to fight for glory, build a legacy for a thousand years, gather the world''s fortune, and be renowned and feared?" Zhong Shan asked, his gaze fixed on Liu Wushuang.


    Liu Wushuang froze, deeply moved by the vision Zhong Shan painted of the future.


    "It''s alright, take your time to think about it. I am currently amander of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty. If you ever wish to join me, let me know anytime." Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Yes, I''ll think about it," Liu Wushuang replied.


    "Hmm, for now, have all the wolves slowly retreat to those distant hills," Zhong Shan instructed Liu Wushuang.


    The wolf under Liu Wushuang''s feet howled twice, seeminglymunicating with the other wolves. Finally, under the guidance of arge wolf, the entire wolf pack began to retreat.


    Slowly, the wolves withdrew.


    To Wu An, the wolves'' retreat seemed due to Liu Wushuang''smand since the wolf beneath him was the Fiery Wolf General''s son. Little did he know that this was all because of Zhong Shan''s authority.


    The wolves retreated from the t terrain and slowly moved up to the hilly area. Zhong Shan had considered the wolves'' nature; at least in those hills, the wolves were less restricted than humans and the terrain was more suitable for them to fight.


    The sky still echoed with rumbling.


    It wasn''t until the wolves had fully retreated that the battle in the sky seemed to pause.


    Both the Ju Lu King and the Fiery Wolf General paused momentarily.


    Who wasmanding the wolves? The Ju Lu King wondered if another wolf general had appeared. On the other hand, the Fiery Wolf General thought it was unlikely that Xiao Yan would give a disorderlymand.


    "Whoosh~~~"


    "Whoosh~~~"


    The Ju Lu King and the Fiery Wolf General ceased fighting and swiftly flew back to their respective camps.


    As they approached, both raised their eyebrows in surprise.


    The Ju Lu King''s eyes narrowed as he recognized two familiar faces. What a coincidence.


    But the Fiery Wolf General''s pupils contracted upon realizing Zhong Shan''s identity. Wasn''t this the person Xiao Yan mentionedst time? The one who made Xiao Yan more independent and mature with his argument about the differences between wolves and dogs?


    "Fiery," the Fiery Wolf General addressed Zhong Shan without much reverence.


    "Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan introduced himself.


    "Zhong Shan!~~~" the Ju Lu King suddenly called out from a distance.


    "Ju Lu King," Zhong Shan responded, looking in the direction of the voice.


    "All archers, prepare your arrows and aim at Zhong Shan," the Ju Lu Kingmanded his troops.


    "Yes!" Nearly fifty thousand soldiers among the hundred thousand troops suddenly raised their powerful arrows, aiming directly at Zhong Shan.


    The tension was palpable. If Zhong Shan made any move, a volley of arrows would certainly follow.


    The Ju Lu King smiled slightly and said, "Zhong Shan, I appreciate talent. Would you consider joining our Da Yu Empire?"


    "Appreciate talent? Then what about the time when you surrounded me with eight hundred thousand troops...?" Zhong Shan asked the Ju Lu King.


    "That was then, and this is now. If you join our Da Yu Empire, I will guarantee you a high position," the Ju Lu King promised.


    "And if I refuse?" Zhong Shan asked thoughtfully.


    "If you refuse, these fifty thousand powerful arrows will be thest thing you see in your life," the Ju Lu King threatened.


    "Hmph," the Fiery Wolf General snorted coldly, and Ah Da stepped forward.


    "Oh, don''t worry. If I want to kill you, I will spare no effort. With Wu An and me holding off Ah Da and the Fiery, the remaining hundred thousand troops will focus solely on killing you. Do you think you stand a chance of surviving? Hahaha," the Ju Lu Kingughed arrogantly.


    "If you want to buy someone, you need sufficient leverage. It''s like a beggar trying to buy a tycoon with the money he collected in a day. Your offer is simply insincere," Zhong Shan mocked with a shake of his head.


    "Humph! You are courting death!" the Ju Lu King roared in anger.


    "Cluck, cluck, cluck! Ju Lu King, Zhong Shan is absolutely right. Your offer is far too low," a series of crispughs suddenly echoed from a nearby valley.


    The voice interrupted everyone, and all eyes turned toward the valley.


    From the valley emerged a woman dressed in ck.


    It was Nian Youyou, wielding a whip.


    No one expected Nian Youyou to have been hiding there all along. Her sudden appearance left everyone uncertain about whose side she would take. Nian Youyou, with her Royal Supreme Realm strength, was undeniably a significant yer.


    "Nian Youyou?" the Ju Lu King called out, frowning.


    With a slight step, Nian Youyou flew toward Zhong Shan.


    The Fiery Wolf General was about to intercept her, but Zhong Shan said, "It''s okay."


    The Fiery Wolf General frowned slightly but allowed Nian Youyou to stand beside Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, you really know how to cause explosivemotions wherever you go," Nian Youyou suddenlyughed.


    "Miss Nian Youyou, you''re teasing me," Zhong Shan responded politely.


    "Don''t call me Miss Nian Youyou; just call me Youyou!" Nian Youyou said with a hint of coquettishness.


    Everyone found it very peculiar, as if this beautiful woman was pursuing Zhong Shan, who, in turn, seemed to be keeping her at arm''s length.


    It wasn''t that Zhong Shan was pretending; he understood that Nian Youyou was putting on an act, though he wasn''t sure why or what she hoped to gain from it.


    "Nian Youyou?" the Ju Lu King shouted angrily from the other side.


    Turning to look at the Ju Lu King, Nian Youyou smiled slightly and said, "Ju Lu King, I wasn''t wrong. Zhong Shan is the new top schr of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty. You want him to give up his position as the top schr of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty to be an official in your Da Yu Empire? Isn''t that like a beggar trying to buy a tycoon? Your offer is too low."


    "Top schr?" the Ju Lu King eximed, eyes widening.


    Others were also surprised and turned to look at Nian Youyou.


    "The Da Luo Golden List has already been released. Zhong Shan''s ''Man Jiang Hong'' stirred the heavens, and celestial signs manifested. Once he receives the imperial decree, he will immediately hold a prestigious position. Coupled with his status as themander of Wushuang City, do you really think your small official post could sway him? Unless you''re willing to give up your position, why would someone of his caliber serve your empire?" Nian Youyou exined leisurely.


    After Nian Youyou finished speaking, everyone looked at Zhong Shan. Stirred the heavens? A top schr?


    Everyone believed her, but amid the confrontation, there was no time to marvel at it.


    "Nian Youyou, how can you repay the Da Yu Empire like this? Do you intend to oppose me?" the Ju Lu King asked coldly.


    "Repay? I''ve already repaid. That matter involved my master and the former emperor of Da Yu. My master, out of gratitude for a past favor, asked me to repay it. I''ve already done that. It''s not my fault you didn''t utilize it well. I have no further obligations to the Da Yu Empire," Nian Youyou said with a smile.


    "You... you go back on your word!" the Ju Lu King said angrily.


    "Women are fickle, didn''t you know that?" Nian Youyou replied with a mischievous smile.


    This response left the Ju Lu King speechless.


    "Humph, let''s go!" the Ju Lu King ordered.


    Although the Ju Lu Kingcked the strategic genius of Wu Yiyan or Zhong Shan, he was decisive in military matters. Knowing the situation was hopeless, he chose to leave quickly. Besides, the Ju Lu King wasn''t the only one searching here. He didn''t want others to benefit from their battle.


    The Ju Lu King left unchallenged. The Fiery Wolf General, standing on top of a wolf, watched coldly with a frown.


    "Zhong Shan, how did you know I was here? Did youe specifically to find me?" Nian Youyou teased Zhong Shan.


    But Zhong Shan was used to this by now.


    "Wait here. I have something to discuss with Fiery," Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh?" Nian Youyou''s eyes sparkled as she nodded.


    "Ah Da, wait here," Zhong Shan said.


    "But sir, what if..." Ah Da expressed concern for Zhong Shan''s safety.


    "I''ll be fine, don''t worry," Zhong Shan reassured.


    Then Zhong Shan flew towards the Fiery Wolf General on his sword, and the Fiery Wolf General, understanding the situation, stepped onto a cloud, carrying Zhong Shan to a distant mountain peak. With a wave of his hand, he set up a soundproof barrier.

 Chapter 282: Encounter with Zixun Again

    <h4>Chapter 282: Encounter with Zixun Again</h4>


    The two men looked at each other.


    "Thank you for the words you shared with Xiao Yan. They have been greatly beneficial, helping him mature quickly in thought," the Fiery Wolf General said.


    "It was nothing, just a small matter. I suppose you have many questions for me, don''t you?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Indeed, I want to know why the Supreme chose you," the Fiery Wolf General asked, staring intently at Zhong Shan.


    "Are you questioning the judgment of Emperor Xuan Sha?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "I have never doubted the Supreme''s judgment. The Supreme is never wrong, especially the current one. I just want to know how someone at the Golden Core stage caught the Supreme''s attention," the Fiery Wolf General replied.


    "When Emperor Xuan Sha made a pact with me, I was only at the Innate stage," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Hearing this, the Fiery Wolf General''s eyebrows twitched. It was already hard to believe that the Supreme would take an interest in someone at the Golden Core stage, but an Innate stage human? Could it be that the Supreme was drunk at the time? Impossible, the Supreme never gets drunk.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan''s expression became serious. "Enough, you''ll understand the reasons in due time. I came here specifically to find you."


    "Oh?" The Fiery Wolf General looked puzzled.


    "I want you to be my mount and apany me in conquering Shenzhou for a while," Zhong Shan said straightforwardly.


    "Hahaha, you want me to be your mount? No one has ever dared to speak to me like that," the Fiery Wolf General replied coldly.


    "Not only that, I also need all the demon wolves of the Fiery Mountain Range to follow me in conquering the world," Zhong Shan said again.


    "Ridiculous! Although you are the chosen one of the Supreme, with your current cultivation level, you can onlymand wolves at the Nascent Soul stage, and even then, only those you summon. Expecting me to follow your orders? You are not qualified," the Fiery Wolf General said coldly.


    "And what kind of person do you think would be qualified?" Zhong Shan asked calmly, without showing any impatience.


    "Hmph, don''t even think about my subordinates risking their lives for you. A word to the wise: a person should know their own limits," the Fiery Wolf General said coldly.


    With that, he dismissed the soundproof barrier.


    Stepping down, he flew away angrily. With a wave to the wolves, they all followed him into the distance, except for the one under Liu Wushuang, the one called Xiao Yan. The Fiery Wolf General didn''t bother with him.


    Watching the Fiery Wolf General leave in a huff, Zhong Shan smiled faintly. He was not in a hurry and had anticipated this reaction. Today''s conversation was just to give him a mental preparation. Take it slowly, step by step; this matter can''t be rushed.


    "Sir, are you alright?" Ah Da asked as he flew over.


    "I''m fine," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "What did you say to the Fiery Wolf to make him so angry? Even if he was that angry, he didn''t take it out on you; he didn''t even hit you before leaving," Nian Youyou asked curiously, looking at Zhong Shan, who was unscathed.


    Hit him? The Fiery Wolf dared to hit him? Zhong Shan smiled slightly without saying more.


    "Sir, how abouting to my Yuheng Sect for a visit? My father will be very happy to see you. And there''s also an elder from the Kaiyang Sect at our Yuheng Sect this time," Liu Wushuang said.


    "Oh? An elder from the Kaiyang Sect?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    "Yes, there was a major incident nearby, and Shoushan went to inform the Seven Stars Hall. Because of the urgency, they sent the nearest person, and it turned out to be an elder from the Kaiyang Sect," Liu Wushuang said.


    "Who is it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Elder Zixun," Liu Wushuang replied.


    "Elder... Zixun?" Zhong Shan was surprised. What a small world. Zixun? Could it be her? The woman with whom he had a one-night stand? The one who had brought him to thends of Shenzhou?


    "Mr. Zhong, what''s wrong?" Liu Wushuang asked, noticing that Zhong Shan was momentarily lost in thought.


    Meanwhile, Nian Youyou''s eyes twinkled with intense curiosity as she nced at him.


    "Years ago, it was Elder Zixun who brought me to the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty. I was just reminiscing," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    "Then let''s go," Liu Wushuang said.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The four of them, along with a wolf, all boarded a white cloud conjured by Ah Da''s magic and headed toward the Yuheng Sect.


    "What''s been happening here recently? Why did the Giant Deer King bring an army of ten thousand?" Zhong Shan asked after some thought.


    "I''m not sure. It seems like they''re looking for something. My father hasn''t mentioned it, but it seems pretty important," Liu Wushuang replied.


    "I know," Nian Youyou suddenly said.


    "Oh? What is it?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "It''s a celestial item," Nian Youyou revealed.


    "A celestial item?" Liu Wushuang''s eyes widened.


    "I remember now. The violent disturbance in the spiritual energy here must be due to celestial energy," Ah Da realized.


    "Exactly, it''s celestial energy," Nian Youyou confirmed with a smile.


    Liu Wushuang gulped, a look of desire shing in his eyes.


    "Celestial item? Celestial energy?" Zhong Shan asked with a puzzled expression.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s confusion, Ah Da quickly exined, "Celestial energy is only possessed by immortals. On thends of Shenzhou, certain ces asionally exhibit it. Each trace of celestial energy is left behind by an immortal before their ascension. If celestial energy is leaking here, it must be due to a restriction or formation set by an immortal long ago. Over time, geological changes can cause these restrictions or formations to loosen, leading to the escape of celestial energy. Even a tiny amount can disrupt arge area''s spiritual energy."


    "Regardless of what kind of celestial item it is, even if it''s just celestial energy, it''s extremely precious to mortals. Anyone who obtains it will be able to break through numerous bottlenecks," Ah Da continued to exin.


    "No wonder my father didn''t tell me. If word got out, wouldn''t it attract countless powerful individuals?" Liu Wushuang sighed.


    "No, perhaps your father doesn''t even know. He likely reported the situation to the Seven Star Hall, which then analyzed it and, to prevent others from getting there first, sent Zixun to the Yuheng Sect," Ah Da spected.


    "The lure of immortality is too strong," Zhong Shan nodded in agreement.


    "Zhong Shan, you owe me three thousand different kinds of roses. You better not go back on your word," Nian Youyou suddenly said.


    "Don''t worry, I always fulfill my promises," Zhong Shan replied.


    "How about you find the celestial item for me, and we count it as one rose?" Nian Youyou asked with a sly smile.


    Zhong Shan smiled but did not agree or refuse.


    "Say something! Will you do it or not?" Nian Youyou pressed.


    "A rose is a rose; it can''t be substituted," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Hmph! Stingy!" Nian Youyou''s expression changed to a yful demeanor.


    Watching Nian Youyou, Liu Wushuang and Ah Da couldn''t help but feel overwhelmed. Such a woman was truly captivating.


    Yuheng Sect.


    Inside Yuheng Hall.


    The hall was filled with arge number of scrolls, no less than a hundred thousand, almost cluttering half of the Yuheng Hall. The Yuheng Sect Master, Liu Suifeng, was quickly scanning through the scrolls with a few senior brothers, using magic to sift through them one by one.


    At a desk in the northern part of the grand hall sat a beautiful woman, dressed in purple and barefoot��Zi Xun.


    Zi Xun had ced an incense burner beside the desk, burning a calming herb incense, while she carefully examined a dozen scrolls that had been selected by the Yuheng Sect''s sect master and others. Zi Xun read the scrolls attentively, asionally furrowing her brows, sometimes focusing deeply, and sometimes sighing. This serene scene seemed like the most beautiful painting in the world.


    The numerous scrolls in the hall were ancient texts collected by the Yuheng Sect, documenting the history and events around the sect''s vicinity. These included rubbings of ancient carvings, recording various phenomena within a hundred thousand li over the past thirty thousand years. Older records had been lost, but those within thirty thousand years were still preserved. Liu Sui Feng and his fellow disciples were responsible for filtering out some strange urrences to be reviewed by Zi Xun.


    "Father, I''m back." From outside the hall came the loud voice of Liu Wushuang.


    Upon hearing Liu Wushuang''s voice, Liu Sui Feng frowned and looked at Zi Xun. Zi Xun nodded, indicating it was alright to enter.


    "Come in!" Liu Sui Feng called out to the people outside the hall.


    "Father, look who''s here." Liu Wushuang said.


    Hearing this, Liu Sui Feng frowned again. Did she bring someone?


    When Ah Da, Zhong Shan, Liu Wushuang, and Nian Youyou entered the hall, a scroll in Zi Xun''s hand suddenly slipped and fell onto the desk with a thud. A dazed look shed in Zi Xun''s eyes. Is he my harbinger of doom? How does he keep appearing in front of me?


    Zhong Shan was prepared, so he did not show any surprise. He looked into Zi Xun''s eyes, and just one nce seemed to awaken her from her stupor. Zi Xun immediately turned her head away, took a deep breath, and calmed her emotions.


    This scene was noticed by the mischievous Nian Youyou, who looked curiously at Zi Xun, then at Zhong Shan, her eyes twinkling and a knowing smile forming on her lips.


    "Mr. Zhong Shan. Senior Ah Da. Please forgive myck of hospitality," Liu Sui Feng quickly came forward with a smile.


    Indeed, thanks to Zhong Shan, the Yuheng Sect was not destroyed. If it weren''t for Zhong Shan, the sect might have been wiped out, or at best, his son would have been sacrificed and killed. Because of Zhong Shan, the Yuheng Sect was unharmed, and Wushuang was safe. Liu Sui Feng was deeply grateful to Zhong Shan for his help.


    "Greetings, Elder Zi Xun. Greetings, Sect Master Liu." Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Zi Xun merely nodded, her expression turning cold again. She also nced slightly at Nian Youyou with a frown.


    "And who is this?" Liu Sui Feng asked, looking at Nian Youyou.


    "From the Longevity Realm, Real Master Nian Youyou?" Zi Xun inquired.


    "Elder Zi Xun?" Nian Youyou responded.


    Real Master? Over the years, Zhong Shan had learned the significance of the title. In different sects, the term had various equivalents:


    Real Master = Arhat.True Lord = Bodhisattva.Dao Lord = Buddha.

 Chapter 283: The Footprint of an Immortal

    <h4>Chapter 283: The Footprint of an Immortal</h4>


    Three Days Later, at Yuheng Sect.


    For the past three days, Zi Xun had maintained a cold demeanor towards Zhong Shan. Once Liu Sui Feng and his peers had organized all the materials, Zi Xun immediately left the Yuheng Sect. Zhong Shan also refrained from further conversation with her.


    The scrolls Zi Xun had reviewed were promptly examined by everyone, especially Nian Youyou, whose eyes sparkled continuously as she read through the information.


    The scrolls contained various legends, stories of immortal relics in certain ces, and records of immortal abodes in others. The authenticity of these tales remained uncertain, yet they managed to narrow down the search area to over a thousand potential locations.


    Zi Xun was likely now verifying these locations, but seeing them made Zhong Shan frown.


    "Zhong Shan, why don''t we go check them out first?" suggested Nian Youyou.


    "No. If the Yuheng Sect could gather these records, other sects must have done the same. Many people, not just Elder Zi Xun, will likely be searching these ces. If we go now, we''ll just add more eyes and won''t aplish much," Zhong Shan said with a frown.


    "So, we''re not going? What if one of these ces does have it? We can''t give up just because there are many people searching; otherwise, someone else might find it first," Nian Youyou argued.


    "You''re right. How about you go check out these ces first and see if anyone has found anything? I''ll study these scrolls further. Return in three days, and Ah Da and I will go with you to search," Zhong Shan suggested.


    "Alright!" Nian Youyou agreed and left the Yuheng Sect.


    After Nian Youyou''s departure, Zhong Shan turned his attention back to the scrolls filling the grand hall. He frowned slightly.


    To read through all of these would take forever. At this moment, Zhong Shan keenly felt the need for a strategic team to help analyze such vast amounts of information. But given the current situation, this wasn''t an option. Reading each scroll individually would take too long, and by the time he finished, the source of the immortal spirit energy might already have been discovered by someone else.


    As he pondered, Zhong Shan looked towards the Yuheng Sect''s master, and a thought shed in his eyes. He had an idea.


    "Master Liu, I have a favor to ask of you," Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh? Mr. Zhong, please, feel free to ask," Liu Sui Feng responded promptly.


    "You''ve already reviewed all these materials, correct?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Yes, my five junior brothers and sisters and I have been sifting through these continuously for Elder Zi Xun. We''ve thoroughly gone through all of them," Liu Sui Feng confirmed.


    "Could you possibly demonstrate them to me?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Huh?" Liu Sui Feng looked puzzled.


    "I mean, using magic to project a map of the area in chronological order, showing the changes in spiritual energy, the shifts in sects, significant events, and the transformations of mountain ranges. If you could perform this from three thousand years ago to the present, it would allow me to grasp everything more quickly and clearly," Zhong Shan exined earnestly.


    Liu Sui Feng was slightly surprised but nodded promptly. "Rest assured, Mr. Zhong, my brothers and I will cross-check the past three thousand years'' events and demonstrate it to you by tomorrow morning."


    "Thank you, Master Liu," Zhong Shan said.


    "There''s no need to thank me, Mr. Zhong. It''s our duty," Liu Sui Feng replied.


    The Second Day, Within the Yuheng Hall


    Six Nascent Soul cultivators formed a circle, pointing their fingers inward. At the center of the group, a cluster of azure smoke slowly transformed into a three-dimensional hologram. This hologram disyed mountains, rivers, sects, and even ancient cities that had once existed. Spiritual energy was represented by dense, red smoke, vividly illustrating its concentration.


    As Liu Sui Feng exined, the images shifted rapidly. Changes in mountains and rivers, the rise and fall of sects, and the transformation of cities��all were depicted in dynamic fashion. This continued for two hours, and by the end, the cultivators appeared quite exhausted.


    "It''s done, Mr. Zhong," said Liu Sui Feng.


    "Thank you all for your hard work," Zhong Shan expressed his sincere gratitude.


    "No need to thank us, Mr. Zhong. We are happy to assist you," Liu Sui Feng replied with a smile.


    "Thank you, truly. You must be tired. Please take a rest. Ah Da and I will review this again," Zhong Shan said.


    The cultivators nodded in agreement and left, leaving only Zhong Shan and Ah Da in the grand hall.


    "Ah Da, did you record everything?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes!" Ah Da responded promptly.


    "Rey it. I need to review it once more," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood," Ah Daplied.


    In a Remote Valley South of the Yuheng Sect


    Within a secluded valley, there were two towering trees, stretching halfway up the mountainside. At the top of these trees stood two figures: the enchanting Nian Youyou and the perpetually stern Zi Xun.


    "Zi Xun Zhenren, do you have something to say to me?" Nian Youyou asked with a smile.


    "Nian Youyou, we may be meeting for the first time, but we know each other well," Zi Xun responded icily.


    "So what?" Nian Youyou replied, still smiling.


    Frowning slightly, Zi Xun spoke coldly, "I''m here to give you a warning. Do not choose Zhong Shan."


    Nian Youyou''s eyes sparkled at Zi Xun''s words, and she grinned slyly. "You''re telling me not to choose Zhong Shan, and you think I''ll justply? Oh? Could it be that you and Zhong Shan...?"


    Her eyes hinted at a deeper meaning.


    "I know your lineage in the Changsheng Realm. You''re notorious for defying rules and disregarding others'' opinions. Even if you make a promise, you may not keep it. But you should understand my cultivation. If Zhong Shan dies because of you, I will use you as my whetstone," Zi Xun warned coldly.


    "Whetstone? You?" Nian Youyou''s eyes widened in anger, a sh of irritation crossing her face.


    "I''ve said my piece. Take care of yourself," Zi Xun concluded.


    With a light step, Zi Xun left behind only a faint afterimage, causing the treetop to quiver slightly as she disappeared.


    Watching Zi Xun''s departure, Nian Youyou''s expression fluctuated before settling into a dismissive smile, clearly disregarding Zi Xun''s words.


    Nian Youyou Returns to Yuheng Sect


    Returning to the Yuheng Sect in a slightly foul mood, Nian Youyou was led into the grand array. She headed straight to the hall where Zhong Shan was located. Over the past few days, she had checked every location purported to have "immortal traces." Each one turned out to be either a hoax or long-since looted, with any treasures taken thousands or even tens of thousands of years ago.


    Outside the Grand Hall


    As they walked outside the grand hall, they overheard a conversation from within.


    "Sir, are you saying it''s here?" Ah Da asked excitedly.


    "Yes, it should be here. During this period, this ce had a very low concentration of spiritual energy, yet numerous sects relocated here. Some even refused to leave despite being on the brink of extinction. There must be something here that attracted them," Zhong Shan replied.


    "But over thest thirty thousand years, this isn''t the only ce like that. There are a few others too," Ah Da said, puzzled.


    "Hehe, I''ve analyzed the records for those other ces as well. They all had different reasons. But this ce has only one description: ''Demonic cmity, suppressed by a step, sects gathered, prosperous era,''" Zhong Shan exined.


    "But there was no prosperous era here, so it must be because of an unknown treasure. Due to its significance, no one wanted to reveal it, and it was left to be discovered by sessive generations of sect leaders?" Ah Da spected.


    "Exactly," Zhong Shan nodded with a smile.


    "Eh? Miss Nian Youyou," Ah Da said, looking towards the entrance of the hall.


    Nian Youyou stepped inside, a look of surprise flickering in her eyes.


    "Did you find it?" Nian Youyou asked in amazement.


    "Yes, rest tonight. Tomorrow morning, we''ll head out," Zhong Shan said.


    "Why wait until morning? Let''s go now!" Nian Youyou said eagerly.


    "I''ve been analyzing non-stop, and I''m mentally exhausted. I need to rest. Don''t worry, the ce is not one of those so-called ''immortal traces'' and is very well-hidden," Zhong Shan reassured her.


    "Alright then," Nian Youyou agreed reluctantly and nodded.


    The Next Day


    The following day, Zhong Shan, Ah Da, and Nian Youyou arrived at arge valley. Within the valley was a smallke surrounded by some trees. From a nce, or even with spiritual sense, nothing seemed out of the ordinary.


    "Is this the ce?" Nian Youyou asked curiously.


    "Ah Da, clear the valley. Divert the waterfall and drain theke," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Ah Da responded promptly.


    With a wave of his hand, he performed several incantations, redirecting the waterfall''s flow and draining the smallke. All that remained was a bed of thick mud.


    "Clear the mud," Zhong Shan ordered.


    Ah Da immediately set to work. Under his spells, the mud was swiftly cleared away, flying towards a nearby mountain.


    As the mud was removed, a nine-colored stone b gradually emerged.


    "I can''t sense this stone b with my spiritual sense! This must be the ce��it can even hide from spiritual detection," Ah Da eximed with excitement.


    "Nine-colored stone b?" Zhong Shan frowned as he observed. As the mud was cleared away and the stone became cleaner, he finally saw the shape of the b.


    It was a right foot. The stone b was shaped like an enormous right foot, a woman''s right footprint. An immortal''s footprint!


    "Sir, should we break it open?" Ah Da asked eagerly.


    At this moment, however, Zhong Shan hesitated. Narrowing his eyes, he recalled the historical record:


    "Demonic cmity, suppressed by a step, sects gathered, prosperous era!"

 Chapter 284: Gathering of the Strong

    <h4>Chapter 284: Gathering of the Strong</h4>


    "Demonic cmity, suppressed by a step, sects gathered, prosperous era?"


    For someone like Zhong Shan, the closer he got to excitement and the brink of sess, the more he maintained hisposure and exercised caution.


    The phrase "suppressed by a step" referred to the stone b with a woman''s footprint. Was it this woman who suppressed something with just a step? But the previous phrase mentioned a "demonic cmity."


    This suggested that beneath this footprint, there might be a demon or some other malevolent entity. The historical record dated back 18,000 years. Had the demon perished in that time? Zhong Shan wasn''t sure, so he knew he had to proceed with utmost caution.


    "Sir, should we break it open?" Ah Da asked eagerly.


    "Not yet. First, clear all the soil, stones, and trees around the footprint," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Ah Da replied.


    With meticulous care, Ah Da used spells to clear away the soil, stones, and trees around the footprint. Together with Nian Youyou, they even removed the surrounding mountains of the valley.


    After a massive effort, they retreated to a distant mountaintop. The valley was gone, and the surrounding mountains had been cleared, leaving only a giant nine-colored footprint in the center. The footprint, nearly 300 meters long, was that of a woman.


    Surrounding the footprint were countless cracks, extending like a spiderweb across arge area, glowing faintly red.


    "Did she create a seal with one step?" Nian Youyou remarked in awe.


    The numerous cracks seemed to interconnect intricately, not loosening the ground below but instead making it as solid as steel.


    Focusing his thoughts, Zhong Shan''s eyes transformed into a fragmented world where countless cosmic rules flickered intermittently. In no time, he was shocked to find that the cracks radiating from the footprint were perfectly aligned with the cosmic rules, as if written deliberately by a pen. But in this case, it was a footprint that caused the cracks.


    "An immortal? Is this the power of an immortal? This is insane." Zhong Shan thought, amazed.


    "Zhong Shan, are you worried that there might be a ''demonic cmity'' as recorded in history?" Nian Youyou asked.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "It''s been over ten thousand years. If there was a demon, it would likely be dead by now. Even if it''s not, the fact that it was previously sealed means that someone on the Divine Land could seal it again. We shouldn''t worry too much. The key is to open this seal," Nian Youyou argued.


    "No matter what, we need to investigate thoroughly first. If we break the seal, the spiritual energy will inevitably leak out, drawing many people here," Zhong Shan cautioned.


    "Alright!" Nian Youyou and Ah Da agreed.


    The three of them then descended the mountain and began a meticulous inspection around the giant footprint. The footprint and the eerie cracks had blocked their spiritual senses, so they had to rely on their own eyes for examination.


    They split up, and Zhong Shan followed a thin crack to the edge of the valley.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s senses screamed danger. His hair stood on end, and an immense sense of peril enveloped him. His protective shield activated reflexively, and he drew hisrge de in an instant.


    A sudden, intense sense of crisis gripped Zhong Shan. It might have been a sixth sense, but in that moment, Zhong Shan felt an impending threat of death.


    Instinctively, he activated his protective shield. What was happening? How could there be danger here? A sneak attack, it must be a sneak attack. But who was behind it?


    In an instant, Zhong Shan saw a hand. A hand emerged suddenly from a short distance away and was now right in front of him.


    Wu An! It was Wu An.


    The hand carried a deadly intent, as if it meant to kill Zhong Shan with a single blow.


    There was no time. The hand was already upon him. Ah Da and Nian Youyou noticed, but it was toote for them to intervene. The hand was about to strike Zhong Shan.


    Death? Zhong Shan was unwilling to ept it. He couldn''t believe he would die, especially since he had a jade talisman for protection.


    "Boom!!!"


    The sound of the blow echoed, a massive burst of energy radiated outwards, shattering the surrounding mountains.


    Zhong Shan was unharmed, while Wu An was sent flying back in frustration.


    "Boom, boom, boom!!!"


    Wu An crashed through a mountain but quickly rose again, looking at Zhong Shan and the person who had blocked his attack with a face full of hatred.


    Standing beside Zhong Shan was a woman in a flowing purple dress, her hand still raised in the air before she slowly lowered it.


    It was Zi Xun!


    Zi Xun had blocked the lethal blow meant for Zhong Shan.


    Ah Da quickly rushed to Zhong Shan''s side, his heart filled with regret. It had been a close call, too close. Zhong Shan had almost been seriously injured.


    Nian Youyou also flew over, surprised to see Zi Xun beside Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan turned to look at Zi Xun, whose expression remained as cold as ever. Zhong Shan didn''t say thank you. Given theirplicated rtionship and his own feelings, he found himself unable to express his gratitude. Nor did Zi Xun expect any thanks from him; everything felt as if it was meant to be, a matter of course.


    "Sir, are you alright?" Ah Da asked urgently.


    "I''m fine," Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    The group turned to look towards Wu An, who was now joined by another figure: Ju Lu Wang (King of the Giant Deer).


    "Ju Lu Wang, have you been following me?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow, quickly understanding the situation.


    "Hahaha, when Wu An told me, I didn''t believe it. But it seems he was right. By following you, we can indeed find mystical treasures. You really are hard to kill," Ju Lu Wangughed.


    "Hahaha, Ju Lu Wang of the Great Yu Empire reduced to staking out at Yu Heng Sect? I should feel honored, as it shows you''ve admitted in your heart that you are inferior to me. And you are indeed inferior, always will be. Failing to recruit me, you now resort to assassination? Hmph, I survived today, and tomorrow I will repay you a hundredfold!" Zhong Shan shouted angrily.


    "Hmph!" Ju Lu Wang snorted, angered by Zhong Shan''s taunts.


    "Ah Da, stop searching. st it open," Zhong Shan turned to Ah Da.


    "Sir?" Ah Da was puzzled. Wouldn''t this attract more people?


    "Hurry!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Ah Da responded promptly.


    Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou then flew to a nearby mountaintop, with Zi Xun naturally following Zhong Shan.


    "Staking out? It seems Ju Lu Wang and Wu An aren''t the only ones watching," Nian Youyou teased Zi Xun.


    "Silence!" Zhong Shan shouted at Nian Youyou.


    "You!" Nian Youyou was infuriated, seeing Zhong Shan stand up for Zi Xun.


    Zhong Shan understood that Zi Xun was not there to stake out but to help him, despite her not knowing about his abilities or his potential to find the mystical treasure.


    Ah Da struck the footprint with a powerful blow. From a distance, Ju Lu Wang and Wu An were both furious but powerless to intervene.


    "Boom!!!"


    The colorful footprint shattered instantly. Then, the red glow from the surrounding cracks suddenly dispersed.


    For a moment, it seemed like nothing had changed, but after a few seconds...


    "Rumble, rumble..."


    The ground began to shake violently, with soil rolling and rumbling from all directions. The mountain on which Zhong Shan and the two women stood trembled uncontrobly.


    Retreat, retreat further!


    Zhong Shan, Nian Youyou, and Zi Xun retreated to a safer distance.


    "Boom!!!"


    The ground erupted skyward.


    An immense fireball shot into the sky!


    A volcanic eruption. A colossal volcano burst forth as if it had been suppressed for millennia, suddenly released. Thickva surged skyward, scattering clouds in its path.


    As theva rained down, it ignited surrounding areas, setting forests aze in a massive inferno.


    Animals fled in terror as a raging firestorm swept thendscape.


    The sky turned red from the zing fire.


    Such is the power of nature��a massive volcano, previously sealed by the celestial footprint, had erupted!


    Ah Da flew to Zhong Shan''s side to protect him.


    The others watched, taking deep breaths.


    They could feel wisps of strange spiritual energy emerging from theva, which then dispersed, causing the surrounding spiritual energy to be chaotic.


    Celestial energy��it was celestial energy.


    Everyone held their breath, eager to see what the celestial artifact might be.


    Within the time it took for the volcano to erupt, a few powerful figures had already arrived.


    "Whoosh!"


    On a distant mountaintop, a bald figure appeared��Huiguang Arhat. Surprisingly, he was present as well.


    Shortly after, two more figures appeared on another mountaintop. Both were known to Zhong Shan.


    Jin Chan��the writer of the brilliant essay during the imperial exam.


    Behind Jin Chan stood a man whomanded everyone''s attention and caution.


    Dawei Tianlong Bodhisattva!


    Among those present, Dawei Tianlong Bodhisattva was the most powerful. The arrival of the celestial artifact would beplicated with him around.


    Everyone was wary of the three powerful figures who had arrived first.


    "Greetings, Bodhisattva!" Huiguang Arhat greeted Dawei Tianlong Bodhisattva with respect.


    Dawei Tianlong Bodhisattva merely nodded, not paying much attention to him, but instead looked towards Zhong Shan on a nearby mountaintop.


    "Thank you, Mr. Zhong Shan!" Dawei Tianlong Bodhisattva said to Zhong Shan.


    Upon hearing Dawei Tianlong Bodhisattva''s tone, Zhong Shan immediately understood the reason. The Bodhisattva knew it was Zhong Shan who had someone write on the mountain wall, saving his life.


    "Bodhisattva, you''re too kind," Zhong Shan responded.

 Chapter 285: Strange Resemblance

    <h4>Chapter 285: Strange Resemnce</h4>


    More and more people gathered. Before long, the me Wolf General rushed over swiftly, followed by many others whom Zhongshan didn''t recognize.


    Why did Zhongshan let Ada break the seal? Ada now understood. In just a short moment, numerous subordinates of the Giant Deer King were flying in from afar. If decisive action wasn''t taken, when the army of the Giant Deer King arrived, Zhongshan would truly be in danger.


    Magma raged in all directions, filling numerous valleys around them.


    Atop the rocky mountain surrounded by magma, everyone stared fixedly at the erupting spot.


    Because it was from there that the aura of immortality emanated, strand by strand. Immortal objects were beneath this volcano.


    "A whoosh��"


    The me Wolf General was the first to charge forward. Being specialized in fire cultivation, it was more immune to mes. With a wave of its aura, a surging me automatically formed around it, seamlessly integrating with the magma as it sank down without any resistance.


    "A ssh��"


    The me Wolf General was too impatient. In its eyes, everything in this Fire Mountain Range belonged to it. Who dared topete with it?


    But in front of immortal objects, who cared about it?


    "Sshes��"


    Powerful individuals jumped into the melting gold and boneva without hesitation or reluctance.


    Who would yield to immortal objects?


    In the blink of an eye, the Giant Deer King, Wuan, Huiguang, Daweitianlong with Jinch��n, and others Zhongshan recognized, all went down.


    Nian Youyou also made an independent decision to jump in. She nced at Zhongshan, still wearing a cold expression. Then she nced at Ada, who was guarding Zhongshan, and gracefully entered the magma.


    Watching Nian Youyou go down, Zhongshan frowned slightly, sighing deeply.


    "Master, should we go down?" Ada immediately asked Zhongshan.


    "Let''s go. Protect me," Zhongshan nodded.


    "Yes!" Ada responded promptly.


    Then, Ada formed a sturdy aura shield and flew towards the erupting magma, gradually descending into the depths following the emergence of the immortal aura.


    Whaty below?


    Outside the magma, those below the Nascent Soul stage blocked the way, only those above the Unity stage dared to go down.


    As they descended, the temperature rose. All around them was a fiery red, and the deeper they went, the fewer impurities there were, and the higher the temperature. The terrifying heat constantly battered the protective auras of the strong.


    After about five miles of descent, some Unity stage experts couldn''t bear it anymore. The magma below had turned pure white, too hot, too terrifying. Their protective auras trembled as if they were about to copse at any moment.


    Helplessly, except for the ones led by the Emperor-level experts, everyone else had to retreat.


    Seeing the increasing density of immortal aura, everyone could only sigh deeply.


    Ten miles deep, twenty miles deep, fifty miles deep.


    When they reached fifty miles deep, there was no magma or impurities around, only endless scorching mes.


    Only Emperor-level experts could stay in such a terrifying heat.


    "Master, we''ve found it!" Ada said excitedly.


    "Yes, we''ve found it!" Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    All those who descended were gathered around a certain object.


    A massive object, about a foot thick and nearly a hundred meters in diameter, like a giant pancake.


    The round object had two colors: one was pure white, and the other was a dark red. These two colors on the circr surface perfectly formed the shape of a Tai Chi Yin-Yang fish.


    The mes around the object were forced to retreat by the imposing presence emanating from it. This giant object with a diameter of a hundred meters had no mes around it from all directions.


    Around the circumference of this Tai Chi Yin-Yang fish-shaped object, there was a circle of energy resembling a protective aura, faintly emitting a bluish light, as if this bluish light was trapping the circr object.


    Everyone looked on with uncertainty.


    "Master, the aura of immortality, it''s leaking from the Yang fish. There''s so much of it, so much immortal aura. The Yang fish is entirely made of immortal aura. It must have been left behind by the ancient immortals," Ada eximed in wonder.


    It made sense. Just a trace of immortal aura outside had already caused such a great effect. Here, it was concentrated and visible, and such arge piece was invaluable!


    If the Yang fish was made of immortal aura, then what about the Yin fish?


    A monster? Was it that monster? Alive or dead?


    At this moment, most people''s gazes turned towards Daweitianlong Bodhisattva, because here, he was universally acknowledged as having the highest cultivation level. Everyone looked at him not with vignce, but with anticipation.


    Zhongshan frowned slightly. Had he and Ada arrivedte? What had happened just now?


    At this moment, Nian Youyou also flew over, her expression somewhat solemn.


    "What just happened?" Zhongshan immediately asked.


    "We all tried attacking the bluish light outside the aura of immortal aura, but we couldn''t break it. It''s too strong. This bluish light''s defense is too strong. Even Emperor-level cultivators'' attacks had no effect. It remained unchanged. Only the artifacts left behind by ancient immortals have such strong protection. It''s too powerful!" Nian Youyou said.


    "Bluish light?" Zhongshan frowned.


    Everyone''s hopeful gazes turned towards Daweitianlong Bodhisattva, because Daweitianlong Bodhisattva had yet to make a move.


    With a slight smile, Daweitianlong Bodhisattva gave Jinch��n a cautious look.


    In the blink of an eye, Jinch��n took out a robe embroidered with numerous precious stones. Putting on the robe, he stepped out of Daweitianlong Bodhisattva''s protection.


    Standing outside, the mes automatically avoided him.


    Without hesitation, Daweitianlong Bodhisattva also walked forward slowly, his hand reaching out towards the massive pancake.


    "Whoosh��"


    His right hand turned golden, without much imposing aura. It gently cut towards the bluish light above the Yang fish.


    Everyone tightened their grips on their respective magical treasures and weapons, as if they were ready to strike at any moment. Even if they couldn''t get a piece of the pie, they could at least have a sip of the soup.


    It was evident that Daweitianlong Bodhisattva was finding it extremely difficult to cut through. But thankfully, he slowly made progress.


    The bluish light wasn''t thick, only as wide as a palm, but it took Daweitianlong Bodhisattva half an hour to cut out a small opening.


    Sess! The cut was made, and now arge amount of immortal aura was about to gush out.


    However, in the moment the small opening was made, something strange happened.


    The internal Tai Chi Yin-Yang fish suddenly started rotating, and where the cut had been made, the Yang fish part was instantly reced by the Yin fish part, as if in that moment, the Yin fish hade alive. The dark red Yin fish suddenly swam towards the small opening, pushing the immortal aura aside.


    "Boom��"


    It broke through Daweitianlong Bodhisattva''s right hand, rushing out violently without any pause, as if this ce was its nightmare, flying madly upwards.


    "You dare��"


    Daweitianlong Bodhisattva roared angrily. After all the effort he had put in, how could he let it escape?


    With a palm extended, a massive golden descended from above, intending to capture the dark red Yin fish. However, at this moment, the Yin fish had already transformed into a dark red cloud-like entity.


    "Whoosh��"


    It directly passed through the golden and flew out, soaring into the sky without stopping.


    Several strong individuals chased after it, including Wuan, whom Zhongshan recognized.


    Others still kept their eyes on Daweitianlong Bodhisattva. Because in front of him was what everyone wanted the most. Immortal aura, entirely made of immortal aura. Daweitianlong Bodhisattva wouldn''t monopolize it, would he?


    As everyone prepared to fight desperately for it��


    "Hum��"


    Daweitianlong Bodhisattva suddenly dodged aside, his eyes wide with uncertainty as he looked at the Yin fish he had just grabbed and the bluish light.


    Did he no longer want it? Daweitianlong Bodhisattva backed away quickly. What was going on?


    Some of those who were about to rush forward immediately stopped, but there were still some reckless ones. Huiguang Luohan ignored everyone and rushed forward quickly.


    "Boom��"


    The bluish light burst forth, and Huiguang Luohan was sent flying back faster than before.


    Now, everyone fell silent. They looked on with suspicion.


    Bluish light, endless bluish light, shing so brightly that it blinded everyone''s eyes.


    Most of them were Emperor-level experts, and they had already adapted to the strong light underground. But now, they were still blinded by the bluish light?


    When Zhongshan regained his senses, he furrowed his brow.


    Not only Zhongshan, but everyone else also furrowed their brows.


    Because the bluish light and the Yang fish condensed from immortal aura were slowly changing shape. And an invisible pressure spread out in all directions.


    Life? It was the breath of life again!


    "Hum��"


    The bluish light suddenly gathered together, then condensed into a humanoid form.


    A transparent humanoid figure. With a pinch of her hand, the Yang fish beside her turned into a blue flower.


    "Is it a remnant of an immortal?" Nian Youyou eximed in astonishment.


    A remnant of an immortal? The remnant left by an immortal before ascending 18,000 years ago? This remnant even had a connection with the original body. Although it didn''t have the strength of the immortal''s original body, it was still an incredibly powerful existence, like an incarnation outside of the body. It could only maintain its form for a short time.


    Everyone took a step back, because before them stood an immortal. At least, their thoughts were on an immortal, a being that everyone looked up to, an immortal.


    Only Zhongshan waspletely stunned.


    Bao''er? Gan Bao''er? His own wife, Bao''er?


    The immortal in front of him looked exactly like Bao''er, truly identical. If it weren''t for his invisible body looking at Bao''er right now, Zhongshan would have thought she was Bao''er.


    Why did she look exactly like Bao''er, with the same appearance, height, and even the same mole in the same ce on her finger? Exactly the same!

 Chapter 286: Immortal

    <h4>Chapter 286: Immortal</h4>


    Outside the royal pce on Tiang Ind, in the Dawang Dynasty.


    Zhongshan, concealed, stared intently at Bao''er.


    "Master, what''s wrong?" Bao''er asked, puzzled.


    "I saw another you," Zhongshan frowned.


    "Another me?" Bao''er looked puzzled.


    "Yes, do you have a twin sister? No, she ascended as an immortal 18,000 years ago, so it''s impossible for her to be a twin. Your ancestor? No, the mole on her hand is exactly the same as yours," Zhongshan pondered in distress.


    "What''s going on?" Bao''er asked, puzzled.


    Zhongshan recounted the events at the bottom of the volcano from beginning to end. Bao''er listened, covering her mouth with her small hand, wearing an expression of disbelief��


    At the bottom of the volcano, Zhongshan widened his eyes, filled with uncertainty. Who was she?


    Even if it was just the aura of an immortal remnant, releasing it exerted immense pressure on everyone. They were all uncertain, but no one dared to leave.


    Because the appearance of an immortal remnant had been rumored before. It would onlyst for an hour, and after that hour, it would dissipate on its own, as if the heavens and earth did not allow their existence. It was extremely mysterious.


    Therefore, more people focused on the blue rose in the hands of the immortal. A rose entirely condensed from immortal aura.


    Facing this tremendous aura, only Daweitianlong Bodhisattva was the most fearless. He took slow steps forward.


    He bowed slightly to the immortal.


    "Young monk, aren''t you in a hurry?" the immortal smiled and spoke.


    "Senior, what''s there for me to be in a hurry about?" Daweitianlong Bodhisattva replied calmly.


    "Do you know what you released just now?" the immortal asked.


    Daweitianlong Bodhisattva frowned and looked at the immortal in confusion.


    "It''s called ''Sinful Demon''," the immortal smiled.


    "Sinful Demon?!"


    Everyone knew that Daweitianlong Bodhisattva had deep cultivation, alwaysposed, and never angry. Even when facing the Buddha, he remained calm. But at this moment, he lost hisposure.


    "Is the Bodhisattva''s position in jeopardy?!" the immortal smiled faintly.


    Daweitianlong Bodhisattva, who had been preparing to seize the rose just now, turned around, dashed upward suddenly,pletely disregarding everything, to chase after the dark red Sinful Demon.


    A dramatic scene unfolded, and just like that, he left? Didn''t he want the immortal rose anymore? It should be noted that after an hour, the immortal remnant would disappear. At that time, he would be the biggest winner. But now, he ran off for a ''Sinful Demon''?


    No one felt sorry for him, because everyone wanted that rose.


    The immortal watched Daweitianlong Bodhisattva leave, a faint smile ying on her lips. Then, she turned her head directly toward Jinch��n in the distance.


    As soon as the immortal looked at Jinch��n, it was as if he was instantly imprisoned.


    "It''s you?" the immortal looked at Jinch��n with slight surprise.


    Hearing what the immortal said, everyone suddenly turned to look at Jinch��n. Did the immortal know him?


    "Senior!" Jinch��n respectfully bowed to the immortal, his brow furrowed, indicating that he didn''t recognize her.


    "I didn''t expect... I didn''t expect a dignified... uh, you would fall to such a state. Since you haven''t awakened yet, then forget it. I just wanted to see the people in your paradise of bliss. It''s really... Just now, that little monk was specifically protecting you, right?" the immortal looked at Jinch��n and asked.


    "Correct," Jinch��n replied promptly.


    "Your reincarnation is meaningless," the immortal merely shook her head.


    "Since Senior knows me, may I ask if you could gift me that immortal flower?" Jinch��n asked right away.


    "Knowing you is one thing, but I have no connection with you, nor with your Pure Land of Bliss. Besides, I really don''t like monks. Leave!" the immortal said calmly.


    Jinch��n furrowed his brow, nodded, then slowly floated upward.


    The immortal watched Jinch��n depart, a hint of a cold smile appearing on her lips, but she didn''t say anything more.


    "You all want the flower in my hand, don''t you?" the immortal teased.


    Her gaze swept over each of the ten people present: the Great Deer King, Huiguang, Zh��hu��, Z��x��n, Ni��ny��uy��u, ��d��, Zh��ngsh��n, and three others Zhongshan didn''t recognize.


    However, when the immortal''s gaze fell on Zhongshan, her eyebrows suddenly raised, and a hint of surprise shed in her eyes.


    "All of you, get out! You, stay!" the immortal suddenly pointed at Zhongshan.


    "Sir!" ��d�� immediately protected Zhongshan with a frown.


    But Zhongshan showed no fear because the Red Phoenix and Pink Lotus were still between his eyebrows.


    Zhongshan remained calm, but the others were not. The immortal wanted him to stay? What about the immortal flower?


    With a wave of her hand, ��d�� and Zhongshan were instantly surrounded by a refreshing coolness, and a white cloud appeared to hold Zhongshan.


    "��d��, you guys go up first, I''m fine!" Zhongshan said in a deep voice.


    "Sir?" ��d�� looked puzzled.


    "Go!" Zhongshan stepped lightly out of ��d��''s protective barrier and stood on the white cloud created by the immortal''s magic.


    "Yes!" ��d�� nodded in confusion.


    "Why aren''t you leaving?" the immortal seemed somewhat impatient, her voice angry.


    The others frowned, unable to do anything. Facing the aura of the immortal remnant, even those in the Emperor''s Realm found it difficult to bear. How could they fight for the immortal flower? It would be better to wait until she dissipated and thenpete for it.


    ��d�� flew up, Z��x��n nced at Zhongshan, then flew up as well. Ni��ny��uy��u looked at Zhongshan and smiled slightly. A rose? Zhongshan owed her three thousand roses.


    In the blink of an eye, only Zhongshan and the immortal remained deep underground, surrounded by mes.


    "Who are you?" Zhongshan asked directly.


    But the immortal suddenly closed her eyes, took a deep breath, then opened her eyes and frowned. "What''s her name?"


    "Ba��''��r, Gan Ba��''��r," Zhongshan said directly, knowing what she was asking.


    "Ba��''��r? What a nice name. You actually have Ba��''��r''s aura on you. Who are you to Ba��''��r?" the immortal stared at Zhongshan.


    "Ba��''��r is my wife. Who are you?" Zhongshan asked again.


    "Wife?" The immortal raised her eyebrows. When she looked at Zhongshan, there was some hostility.


    "Why, why do you look so much like Ba��''��r, even the shape of the mole on your hand is exactly the same?" Zhongshan asked again.


    "Exactly the same? Of course it''s exactly the same. Even our body hair is the same. Ba��''��r belongs to me, so let''s leave her with you for now!" the immortal stared at Zhongshan.


    "What did you say?" Zhongshan''s eyes widened. Ba��''��r could only belong to him, to no one else, forever. This immortal was so arrogant.


    "Young man, you have quite the arrogance, but arrogance is useless. What''s more important is strength. With your strength, your foundation, how could you ever match Ba��''��r? Even if... you could never match her. But, you are ultimately Ba��''��r''s husband. Consider this rose a favor from me." The immortal said, and with a flick of her finger, the rose suddenly disappeared, then bizarrely reappeared in Zhongshan''s hand.


    Looking at the rose that had suddenly appeared in his hand, Zhongshan was filled with uncertainty.


    "This rose is entirelyposed of immortal aura. Without me, it will dissipate in at most ten days. With your cultivation, you won''t be able to absorb immortal aura. If you don''t want to be overwhelmed, then give it to someone else," the immortal said.


    "Who are you?" Zhongshan asked again, furrowing his brow.


    At this moment, the immortal raised her head slightly, revealing a cold smile.


    "You have quite the nerve!" the immortal said.


    With a wave of her hand, arge amount of me dispersed, revealing two figures: one was me Wolf General, and the other was Wisdom Light Arhat.


    They dared to defy the will of the immortal and riskeding down here.


    me Wolf General was determined. This was his territory, so the immortal flower had to be his. Wisdom Light Arhat was here because of his personal reasons.


    "me Wolf General, she''s just an immortal remnant, not very strong. If we join forces, whoever grabs it will have it!" Wisdom Light Arhat shouted.


    The immortal''s eyes turned cold. With a flick of her hand, she sent a palm strike towards Wisdom Light Arhat.


    Wisdom Light Arhat''s eyes widened in horror, as if he had encountered the most terrifying thing in the world.


    "Buzz~"


    Wisdom Light Arhat''s body disintegrated, turned into the smallest particles, and then dispersed. In an instant, his body was destroyed by the immortal.


    Just an immortal remnant. How could a Heavenly Extreme Realm be like a chicken or dog before her?


    Wisdom Light Arhat''s physical body was destroyed, leaving only a tiny golden primordial spirit trembling in the distance, his face full of horror.


    "This is a small lesson for you. Go!" the immortal said.


    Wisdom Light Arhat turned and fled in terror. A small lesson destroyed his physical body? Wisdom Light Arhat regretted it deeply!


    As for me Wolf General, how could he have the courage to snatch it now? Wasn''t that seeking death? He turned and ran along with Wisdom Light Arhat. It was too terrifying.


    "Want to leave?" the immortal said coldly.


    Then, me Wolf General felt trapped. Would he end up like Wisdom Light Arhat?


    mes surged around him, breaking through the restraints. His whole body seemed to merge with the endless mes around him, attempting to escape.


    "Hmph!" the immortal snorted coldly. With a flick of her finger, a spell suddenly unfolded.


    "Buzz~"


    me Wolf General was dumbfounded.


    Too terrifying, truly too terrifying. Was this still a volcano? Was this still a volcano crater? Were these still mes around him?


    Ice. Endless ice. In an instant, this volcano was frozen. All the way to the top of the volcano, everything was frozen. The might of the immortal was vast and boundless. Even just a remnant, she was an existence against the heavens.


    "Senior, I know I was wrong," me Wolf General immediately begged for mercy.


    "Young beast, dare to defy me?" the immortal said coldly.


    "Senior, he is my subordinate!" Zhongshan immediately interceded.


    "Yes, yes, yes, I am Zhongshan''s subordinate. Senior, I know I was wrong. Please spare me for Zhongshan''s sake," me Wolf General quickly begged for mercy.


    The demeanor of past grandmasters had long disappeared without a trace. Grandmaster? What was a grandmasterpared to one''s own life?


    Surprised, the immortal nced at Zhongshan and said with a slight smile, "Zhongshan? Your name is Zhongshan? Fine, I''ll give you some face. Go!"


    "Thank you, Senior!" me Wolf General broke through the ice in a panic and rushed frantically upwards.


    Watching me Wolf General''s departure, Zhongshan smiled faintly and looked at the immortal again.


    "Senior, I sincerely want to know, who are you?" Zhongshan asked again.


    With a cold smile, the immortal said, "I let him go just now because of Ba��''��r''s face. Want to know who I am? You''re not worthy!"

 Chapter 287 - 287 Central Secret Technique

    <h4>Chapter 287: Central Secret Technique</h4>


    "Just now, letting him go was just for Baor''s sake. You want to know who I am? You''re not worthy!" the immortal retorted sharply.


    Listening to the immortal''s tone, Zhongshan showed no hint of anger, at least not on his face.


    The immortal indeed had the qualifications, but from the immortal''s attitude towards Baor, Zhongshan deduced a lot.


    She said she was identical to Baor, even down to the hairs, and Baor was obviously harboring some conspiracy, aimed at Baor.


    Though she didn''t know what the conspiracy was, Baor couldn''t be taken by her. Baor was hers, and no one could take her away. Since she had hinted at it, then she would prepare herself to face this conspiracy.


    "Since the senior is unwilling to speak, then the junior won''t force it. But, does the senior have any words for Baor? I will convey them for her," Zhongshan said.


    "Baor is of the Zhongding physique, right?" the immortal looked at Zhongshan.


    "Yes!" Zhongshan furrowed her brows. How much did she know about Baor exactly?


    "Bring a jade slip," the immortal said.


    Zhongshan fetched a jade slip and handed it to the immortal.


    The immortal tapped on it, inputting arge amount of information.


    "This technique, ''Central Secret Technique,'' give it to Baor for cultivation," the immortal said.


    "Yes!" Zhongshan nodded, pocketing the jade slip. She didn''t disobey, nor did she say much.


    "Little one, you better not y tricks with me!" the immortal stared at Zhongshan.


    "The junior wouldn''t dare!" Zhongshan wore a sincere expression.


    With a satisfied smile, the immortal nced at the countless blocks of ice above, waved his right hand, and Zhongshan disappeared with him from the spot, reappearing at the mouth of the original volcano.


    However, the magma had all been frozen into ice.


    The people around patiently waited. When they saw the immortaling out with Zhongshan, they all stepped back, focusing on the rose in Zhongshan''s right hand.


    Zhongshan nced around, feeling very strange. Where did all the people who were here earlier go? There were only these powerful experts of the Huangji Realm left. Weren''t there a lot of Giant Deer King''s subordinates before? And where did the other experts who came here go?


    "Alright, ording to your wishes, give it to one person, I''m leaving," the immortal said.


    "Thank you, senior!" Zhongshan nodded immediately.


    She looked around at the people.


    Giant Deer King, me Wolf General, Ada, Purple Smoke, Nian Youyou, Wu An, and three unfamiliar faces.


    Who to give it to? The unfamiliar ones were out of the question. Giant Deer King and Wu An were directly ignored.


    Now, there was only me Wolf General, Nian Youyou, Ada, and Purple Smoke.


    me Wolf General looked extremely eager, really wanting that immortal flower.


    Nian Youyou''s eyes showed confidence because she knew Zhongshan was a trustworthy person. He owed her a rose, and he had a rose in his hand.


    Ada, on the other hand, seemed slightly envious, or rather, Ada was very self-disciplined and could control his desires.


    As for Purple Smoke, she always had a cold expression. There was a glimmer of hope in her eyes for the immortal flower, but it quickly faded away.


    me Wolf General? Zhongshan gave up directly. Although he admitted just now that he was his subordinate below, it wasn''t sincere, just to save his life.


    Ada, actually, ording to past situations, Zhongshan should have given the flower to Ada, but Zhongshan also excluded him. It''s not that Zhongshan forgot her loyalty for her desires, but Ada''s origin. Zhongshan still didn''t know until now. A subordinate of Princess Qianyou? Why is he Princess Qianyou''s subordinate? Zhongshan guessed that Ada''s true allegiance should be to the Emperor of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, just like the shadow guards of Dajue, sent to protect the princess.


    Once she turned against the Emperor of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, Ada would undoubtedly stand by the Emperor''s side. Moreover, even if Zhongshan wanted to express gratitude, it should be to Princess Qianyou. For Ada''s care, Zhongshan would find another way to repay himter.


    Nian Youyou? Hmph!


    Here, perhaps the only one who truly had no desires or ambitions was Purple Smoke!


    Although she often wore a cold expression, in their few encounters, her thoughts were actually the simplest. Choosing Zhongshanst time at the Kaiyang Sect, saving her with a single palm before, weren''t those the simplest thoughts? Moreover, deep down, Zhongshan also felt a sense of responsibility!


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan faced Purple Smoke and said, "Elder Purple Smoke, thank you for saving my life just now. I can''t use this immortal flower right now, so please ept it!"


    "Zhongshan, you''re not keeping your promise!" Nian Youyou eximed suddenly.


    And the others followed suit with a sense of regret.


    "Not keeping my promise? I''ve never broken my promises. Don''t worry, I''ll give you three thousand roses. When you said within a hundred years, the time hasn''te yet, so I''m not being unfaithful," Zhongshan said bluntly.


    "You!..." Nian Youyou was furious.


    "I don''t need your thanks!" Purple Smoke took a deep breath and shook her head.


    Everyone was stunned. Why was the scene so awkward? Everyone wanted that immortal flower, and now it was being given to Purple Smoke, who refused it?


    It was truly exasperating!


    Faced with such an awkward situation, Zhongshan felt no embarrassment. She remainedposed, her face unchanged, truly reaching a level of thick skin.


    "Elder, please help me give the flower to this Elder Purple Smoke!" Zhongshan said directly to the immortal, ignoring the awkwardness.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, everyone was speechless. Wasn''t this a bit forceful?


    She didn''t want it, so she found someone she couldn''t resist and shoved it to her?


    "Well, fine!" The immortal didn''t want to waste any more time or witness the entanglement of these ants, so he waved his hand directly.


    The immortal flower in Zhongshan''s hand flew towards Purple Smoke and was even more directly injected into her body by the immortal.


    As everyone looked enviously and dejectedly, it merged into Purple Smoke''s body.


    Purple Smoke nced at the immortal, then at Zhongshan, her eyes shing with anger and strangeness. She turned and flew away in a certain direction.


    Watching Purple Smoke leave, everyone felt a sense of ''reluctance''.


    "She''s gone to refine it, I''m leaving too!" the immortal said.


    And in just a moment, arge number of dark clouds slowly gathered in the sky, as if targeting the immortal.


    Just then, the immortal trembled slightly.


    Suddenly, he turned into a burst of green smoke and disappeared, as did the dark clouds in the sky, dispersing slowly, as if they had suddenly disappeared into the cracks of time and space. With the immortal''s departure, everyone breathed a sigh of relief. At the same time, they all looked at Zhongshan in surprise. How did she know the immortal? What did she say to the immortal below just now?


    "Everyone, the immortal flower has been given away. Why are you still here?" Zhongshan smiled.


    Zhongshan was ready to bid farewell to her guests.


    "Go!" The Giant Deer King said directly to Wu An.


    Then, the Giant Deer King flew away with Wu An in tow, and me Wolf General nced at Zhongshan before turning and flying away as well, not mentioning the matter of being Zhongshan''s subordinate. The other three unfamiliar people also turned and left.


    Only Ada and Nian Youyou remained.


    "Sir!" Ada was about to frown and say something.


    "Buzz~~~"


    A golden shadow, at a terrifying speed, came straight towards Zhongshan.


    "Whoosh~~~"


    It was too fast. Nian Youyou and Ada hadn''t even reacted yet when the golden shadow directly entered Zhongshan''s body.


    "Huiguang?" Zhongshan sat down suddenly, filled with anger.


    How dare this Huiguang try to possess her?


    Cross-legged, Zhongshan immediately realized the seriousness of the situation. Ada quickly formed a shield to protect Zhongshan, while Nian Youyou stood by, silent, with a slight frown.


    Huiguang had waited for a long time, afraid toe out earlier for fear of being captured and refined into a magic weapon by others. Now that most people had left, if he didn''t possess someone now, he would be in real trouble.


    Ada and Nian Youyou? Forget it, they couldn''t handle the state of their primordial spirits, so it had to be Zhongshan.


    Although Zhongshan had extremely poor aptitude, she often revealed something strange.


    She even knew an immortal. What did it mean to know an immortal? At least, it meant she wasn''t as bad as she seemed on the surface. Therefore, Huiguang the Arhat rushed into Zhongshan''s body at the fastest speed possible and headed towards the Niwan Pce.


    But the moment Huiguang entered Zhongshan''s body, tragedy struck. He couldn''t move.


    Why was this happening? What power was this? He was in the Huangji Realm, the Huangji Realm! What power could seal him? He had to go to the Niwan Pce; he had to go.


    So what if he was in the Huangji Realm? What he faced was the Hongluan Scripture.


    With a heart full of tears, he had to be pushed out of Zhongshan''s body by her divine consciousness and then attacked by two powerful experts.


    However, when Zhongshan''s divine consciousness touched Huiguang''s primordial spirit, something strange happened.


    Instead of rejecting Huiguang, her divine consciousness pulled him into the Niwan Pce.


    At this moment, Huiguang the Arhat had a very unreal feeling. Was Zhongshan seeking death? Was she courting disaster? Was her brain kicked by a donkey?


    Who would pull the primordial spirit of someone in the Huangji Realm into the Niwan Pce? That was the most vulnerable ce!


    Since you''re seeking death, then don''t me me.


    With a hint of excitement, Huiguang the Arhat cooperated very well as Zhongshan pulled him into the Niwan Pce.


    The moment he entered, Huiguang the Arhat heard a strange sound.


    "Eeyaa~~~"


    Suddenly, Huiguang the Arhat''s primordial spirit shivered. Although he didn''t know what was going on, a sense of impending death suddenly descended. The Niwan Pce? How could Zhongshan make such a sound?


    Turning his head, he happened to see the divine consciousness "Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail".


    Root consciousness? How could a Foundation Establishment cultivator have root consciousness?


    Huiguang the Arhat only had time to show a hint of astonishment before being swallowed up by the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail with a sudden opening of its mouth.

 Chapter 288: Ascension to Immortality

    <h4>Chapter 288: Ascension to Immortality</h4>


    Before Huiguang the Arhat could even react, he was swallowed.


    Swallowed so directly.


    In the Niwan Pce, the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail was extremely satisfied, patting its belly with two of its tails in a thoroughly contented manner.


    Then, it quickly began to digest the primordial spirit of the Huangji Realm expert.


    The Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail was too powerful!


    Its monstrous aspecty in the fact that as soon as it swallowed the Huangji Realm expert, after just a slight tremor, it was basically already refined. And this was when the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail was at its weakest.


    All eight tails of the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail swayed gently, and Zhongshan''s divine consciousness suddenly expanded.


    "Buzz~~~"


    Directly through Ada''s shield, it extended outward.


    And with a wave of her divine consciousness, the spiritual energy of heaven and earth crazily gathered towards Zhongshan, surging into her body in vast quantities.


    Countless spiritual energies quickly entered her body, transforming into true essence and then into pure Yang energy.


    The great sword was ced between Zhongshan''s legs, while Ada quickly withdrew the shield and kept a wary eye on Nian Youyou.


    Nian Youyou seemed to understand Ada''s vignce and quickly stepped back, with Ada following suit.


    Leaving Zhongshan alone to absorb spiritual energy frantically.


    Terrifying spiritual energy rapidly tempered Zhongshan''s body.


    And after transforming into pure Yang energy within her body, it was also released.


    Lightning, lightning surrounded Zhongshan''s body.


    More and more lightning gathered around Zhongshan''s body, tempering her body and the great sword. In an instant, Zhongshan was enveloped in a huge ball of lightning, thunderstorms raging all around, with numerous lightning bolts descending from the sky.


    The Lightning Purgatory Pure Yang Technique!


    Within a hundred yards, countless lightning bolts rained down madly. Even the magma frozen into ice was shattered by the thunderstorms.


    "The Seventh Layer of the Golden Core?" Nian Youyou''s eyes widened.


    This, this was all too unbelievable. The Seventh Layer of the Golden Core? Just a moment ago she was possessed, and now she''s refining it?


    Was she still human? That was a Huangji Realm expert, the Huiguang Arhat. And now she''s refined him into herself?


    Nian Youyou was astonished, but wasn''t Ada equally surprised? Or rather, Ada was more aware of Zhongshan''s cultivation speed. Zhongshan''s aptitude was so poor that it was heartbreaking to look at, but her cultivation speed was something that made people conflicted.


    This was the Master, a true marvel of the world!


    Nian Youyou''s eyes turned, and a smile appeared at the corner of her mouth.


    Ada continued to guard carefully.


    Two hourster, Zhongshan''s body shook lightly.


    "Boom~~~"


    Endless lightning, like a tsunami, surged in all directions from Zhongshan''s center.


    Ice rocks shattered, even hitting a mountain. It was as if a super explosion had urred in all directions, everything destroyed, with a wave of air like a sea and waves rushing in all directions.


    Sess!


    Zhongshan took a deep breath, opened her eyes gently, and stood up with a slight smile.


    The Seventh Layer of the Golden Core!


    Breaking through again, Zhongshan''s divine consciousness now covered a diameter of five hundred meters. It was truly a major breakthrough. If there were more people like Huiguang the Arhat, wouldn''t that be wonderful?


    But Zhongshan also knew that such people were few and far between. How many Huangji Realm experts were there? And how many of them were willing to sacrifice their physical bodies?


    "Congrattions, Master!" Ada flew over immediately to congratte her.


    "Hehe!" Zhongshan nodded in satisfaction.


    "Zhongshan, did you refine Huiguang?" Nian Youyou flew over to inquire.


    "It''s just luck," Zhongshan shook her head.


    "I''ve decided, from now on, I''ll follow you every day," Nian Youyou suddenly said.


    "Huh? Miss Youyou, why?" Zhongshan furrowed her brow.


    "Call me Youyou!" Nian Youyou said.


    "Alright, Youyou, the matter of the spiritual energy here is over, why are you still following me?" Zhongshan furrowed her brow.


    Nian Youyou pretended to be concerned about Zhongshan, and Zhongshan wouldn''t show her true feelings. At this point, she should do what she needed to do.


    "You still have the nerve to say that the roses from before should have been mine!" Nian Youyou wouldn''t let it go.


    "I promised, and I''ll definitely do it. Don''t worry, I''ll find three thousand different roses for you in the future," Zhongshan said.


    "No, no, what if you forget? Following you can remind you at all times. Besides, I''ve noticed that wherever you go, something big happens, just like a gue god," Nian Youyou said with a smile.


    gue god? Zhongshan broke out in a cold sweat!


    "Is it okay?" Nian Youyou suddenly grabbed Zhongshan''s sleeve and shook it, looking pitiful.


    Zhongshan''s hair stood on end, and she quickly pulled her sleeve back, saying, "Alright! But don''t interfere with what I do."


    "Don''t worry, don''t worry!" Nian Youyou immediately said with a smile.


    Although Nian Youyou was insincere towards herself, Zhongshan knew that having an Huangji Realm expert by her side, as long as she handled it properly, would mean an extra level of safety. Although it was inconvenient, the benefits outweighed the drawbacks, so Zhongshan readily agreed.


    "By the way, we saw a lot of people when we came here earlier. Where did they all go?" Zhongshan asked.


    Before entering the volcano, there were the forces of the Great Deer King, as well as the people from various sects, but when they came up just now, they were all gone.


    "They''re dead! All dead!" Ada said.


    "Dead?" Zhongshan was surprised.


    "Yes, there are still some bodies over there. Master, do you want to take a look?" Ada asked.


    "Let''s go!" Zhongshan nodded.


    Then, the three of them quickly flew towards a valley in the distance.


    There were ten bodies in the valley, but these bodies were strangely desated.


    Mummies! Ten mummies!


    "These are the subordinates of the Great Deer King!" Zhongshan frowned.


    "They''re dead, their blood has been drained, not just these ten, all the bodies around here have had their blood drained. They''ve turned into mummies!" Ada said.


    "What''s going on?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "It''s a Demon of Retribution, created by the Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva!" Nian Youyou said.


    "Demon of Retribution? Is that the dark red thing? What is it?" Zhongshan asked.


    "It''s the qi of resentment, gathered over countless years, forming a bit of intelligence, and then bing a Demon of Retribution. The life of a Demon of Retribution is to cause mischief. This kind of Demon of Retribution sucks human blood. It wants to suck the blood of countless people to make itself powerful, powerful enough to defy the heavenly might. The Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva let it loose, and this karmic retribution will be counted on his head. For every ten misdeeds the Demon of Retributionmits, one-tenth will be counted against the Great Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva. By then, countless karmic forces will entangle him and pull him down from the position of Bodhisattva." Nian Youyou said with malicious pleasure.


    "So, this means that chaos is about to erupt in the Four Directions?" Zhongshan said.


    "It should be!" Nian Youyou said.


    "Hmm!" Zhongshan showed a hint of a sinister smile.


    "Let''s go, back to the Yu Heng Sect," Zhongshan said.


    "Mm," Ada immediately carried Zhongshan on the clouds.


    "Zhongshan, you still haven''t told me, what did the immortal say to you down there? Who is she? How do you know each other? Why did she only look for you?" Nian Youyou immediately asked.


    "Maybe I''m just more handsome?" Zhongshan was in a very good mood and joked.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Ada and Nian Youyou were speechless for a while��


    "Awoo~~"


    "Awoo~~"


    ... At that moment, most of the wolves in the world suddenly looked up at the sky, roaring excitedly one by one.


    On Wolf Ind, in all directions, whether they were idle wolves or cavalry wolves, they all howled excitedly.


    On thend of Shenzhou, countless ces were filled with endless howls of wolves, all infinitely excited.


    Because at that moment, all the wolves in the world suddenly felt a sense of relief.


    Many wolves knew that it was because their young master, the young master Xian Xian, hade of age! At that moment, he had reached the Golden Core stage.


    Young Master, Young Master Xian Xian!


    In the Great Dong Kingdom, Zhongshan also stood on a high terrace, watching countless demonic wolves howl towards the sky with infinite excitement.


    Zhongshan quickly went to the ce where the Qingyun Wolf General was.


    At this moment, the Qingyun Wolf General was also excitedly standing outside the main hall, looking towards the distant east.


    "Qingyun, did Xian Xian reach the Golden Core stage?" Zhongshan asked directly.


    "Mm," Qingyun Wolf General nodded��


    Three days after returning to the Yu Heng Sect.


    Sitting in a side hall, holding a small jade slip in his hand, this was left to him by Zixun. At that time, Zixun was forcibly fused with that rose, and then quickly returned to the Yu Heng Sect, throwing a jade slip to Liu Suifeng, and then left immediately, leaving no trace.


    The jade slip was left to Zhongshan.


    After reading it, Zhongshan found that there were only five words inside.


    Be careful of Nian Youyou!


    Be careful of Nian Youyou, this was a warning from Zixun to Zhongshan. Looking at this exquisite small jade slip, Zhongshan smiled slightly. Was she caring about him?


    At this moment, someone also walked in from outside the hall and picked up the jade slip. Zhongshan looked at the neer.


    It was Liu Wushuang!


    "Wushuang pays respects to Master!" Liu Wushuang bowed respectfully to Zhongshan.


    "What''s the matter, have you made up your mind?" Zhongshan smiled and asked.


    "Yes, Wushuang has decided to follow Master from now on, to create a great career, and hopes that Master will fulfill his wish!" Liu Wushuang knelt down with one knee.


    Halfway through kneeling down, Zhongshan stepped forward and held him up, saying, "Good, I''ve been waiting for this moment here for these days."


    "Thank you, Master!" Liu Wushuang said moved.


    "Great talents maturete, and often achieve higher aplishments. From today onwards, you will call me Grand Marshal! At that time, you will lead the wolf cavalry of the Zhihuo Mountain Range and follow me to conquer the world," Zhongshan eximed excitedly.


    "Yes, Grand Marshal, it''s just that leading the wolf pack of the Zhihuo Mountain Range..." Liu Wushuang showed a hint of embarrassment.


    "Don''t worry, it''s different now from before. I''m confident now that I can take away all the demonic wolves of the Zhihuo Mountain Range," Zhongshan said with absolute certainty.


    "Uh? Okay!" Liu Wushuang hesitated for a moment, but still obeyed.

 Chapter 289: Teaching the Zhihuo

    <h4>Chapter 289: Teaching the Zhihuo</h4>


    In a valley within the Zhihuo Mountain Range, Zhongshan and Liu Wushuang stood on top of Xiao Yan, the Fire Wolf, and headed towards the mountains.


    Ada and Nian Youyou were left behind by Zhongshan at the Yu Heng Sect. Ada''s task was to keep an eye on Nian Youyou and prevent her from following.


    "Grand Marshal, can we really do this?" Liu Wushuang furrowed his brow.


    "Don''t worry! Just take me to meet Zhihuo," Zhongshan said.


    "Alright," Liu Wushuang nodded.


    As they walked through the forest, they encountered more and more demonic wolves, their sizes bing increasingly massive.


    The wolves were already ustomed to Liu Wushuang''s presence, but Zhongshan''s appearance caused a slight stir among them.


    Entering the mountains, they soon arrived at the foot of a huge volcano. The volcano emitted thick smoke, but the surroundings seemed to have been smoothed out and there were some buildings, albeit rudimentary. These buildings were quiterge and served as residences for some high-ranking wolves.


    Standing at the foot of the mountain, Zhongshan looked up at the massive volcano.


    "Grand Marshal, the father of Xiao Yan, the Zhihuo Wolf General, lives inside the volcano," Liu Wushuang said.


    "Mm," Zhongshan nodded.


    This was where the most wolves resided. When Zhongshan arrived, arge number of wolves were already staring at him. They didn''t know why the chosen one hade here.


    Zhongshan jumped down from Xiao Yan''s head and found a t area.


    "Heaven and Earth, Xian Xian,e out!" Zhongshan forced out a drop of essence blood from his palm and pressed it on the ground. Suddenly, nine strands of wolf smoke sprayed out in all directions, covering the area in a thick fog.


    When the ck smoke dispersed, Zhongshan and a half-foot-tall little wolf were revealed.


    Xian Xian, still Xian Xian, while other wolves'' cultivations increased and their sizes grew, Xian Xian became smaller.


    Seeing Zhongshan summoning, Liu Wushuang was slightly stunned at first, then showed a surprised expression. Obviously, he had just learned about Zhongshan''s contract with the wolves.


    As Xian Xian appeared, "Awoo, awoo," it joyfully rubbed against Zhongshan''s legs.


    Then it looked at Zhongshan with big eyes, full of surprise. Just now, Xian Xian was in the Longevity Hall of the Great Dong Kingdom. At this moment, it stood in a strange ce. Two Zhongshans? But they both had the same aura, the same Zhongshan?


    When Zhongshan told her that he had two bodies, Xian Xian didn''t believe it. Now it was true, there were really two of him. It was too magical, too unbelievable.


    Xian Xian was excited, looking at Zhongshan with great joy.


    "Awoo, awoo..."


    In the valley, all the fire wolves suddenly widened their eyes, then "awoo, awoo" and all of them knelt down.


    All the wolves in the valley, without exception, knelt down, without any resistance.


    Even Xiao Yan under Liu Wushuang''s feet also knelt down.


    Liu Wushuang stared at Zhongshan in astonishment, then at the little wolf summoned by Zhongshan. What was the origin of this little wolf?


    This was also a feeling between bloodlines. As soon as the most fundamental bloodline appeared, all the wolves sensed its identity.


    Young Master! The Young Master has arrived!


    "Xian Xian, it''s up to you now!" Zhongshan smiled at Xian Xian.


    Then, excitedly, it bounded ahead, quickly rushing up the volcano and running to the highest building on the edge of the volcano''s mouth.


    "Where''s Zhihuo?" It said impatiently.


    Perhaps sensing the presence of higher bloodlines around the volcano, the Zhihuo Wolf General immediately flew out of the volcano andnded at the foot of the mountain.


    Seeing Zhongshan, the Zhihuo Wolf General frowned, uncertain, but when it saw Xian Xian, it was slightly startled.


    "Zhihuo pays respects to the Young Master!" The Zhihuo Wolf General knelt down and bowed to Xian Xian.


    "Zhihuo, Zhongshan told me that in order to save your life, you willingly became Zhongshan''s subordinate. But after you saved your life, you ran away on your own and ignored your previous promises. Isn''t that true?" Xian Xian said with an air of authority.


    "This...?" The Zhihuo Wolf General broke out in a cold sweat.


    "You''re being inconsistent. You''re bringing shame upon our wolf n, upon me, and upon my grandfather. I''ll tell my grandfather when I go back, that you''rewless outside,mitting all sorts of atrocities, tarnishing the reputation of the wolf n." Xian Xian imitated the methods taught by Zhongshan.


    Hearing Xian Xian''s words, the Zhihuo Wolf General broke out in a cold sweat. He hadn''t done anything wrong, he just didn''t want to deal with Zhongshan because of his pride.


    "Yes, and I''ll also tell the other uncles and aunts, and inform Qingyun, Heiao, Binn..." Xian Xian continued to scold the wolf generals of Tiang Ind.


    The Zhihuo Wolf General was extremely depressed. If the Young Master told the truth, wouldn''t his reputation in the wolf n be ruined? And the names mentioned by Xian Xian were all wolf generals he was familiar with.


    Depressed!


    "Young Master! Can''t I admit my mistake?" The Zhihuo Wolf General said with a bitter face.


    For Xian Xian, he couldn''t hit or scold her, and he had to go along with everything she said. What a tragedy! The Zhihuo Wolf General''s tragedy!


    "Okay, Zhongshan is my friend, and everything he does, my grandfather strongly supports. You must listen to him and act as his subordinate. If you''re a subordinate, you must act like one, and lead all the wolves of the Zhihuo Mountain Range to fight alongside him." Xian Xian said.


    Looking at Zhongshan, the Zhihuo Wolf General could only nod helplessly. It seemed that all this was Zhongshan''s bad idea? But what could he do about it?


    "I''ll oftene to check on things, don''t tarnish the reputation of the wolf n anymore." Xian Xian seemed to doubt the character of the Zhihuo Wolf General.


    The Zhihuo Wolf General looked at Xian Xian with a depressed expression, and could only nod and say, "Young Master, rest assured!"


    Seeing the Zhihuo Wolf General like this, Xian Xian seemed to feel that it wasn''t enough, and with an air of authority, said, "This is a heavy responsibility. Whether the wolf n can restore its former glory depends entirely on you. Take care of yourself."


    Zhongshan, on the side, couldn''t help butugh at Xian Xian. It seemed that scolding people could also be addictive, leaving the Zhihuo Wolf General feeling extremely depressed.


    Hearing Xian Xian''s words, the Zhihuo Wolf General broke out in a cold sweat again. He couldn''t argue back, what a tragedy!


    The next day, Zhongshan sent Xian Xian away. Although Xian Xian was in the Golden Core stage, Zhongshan still worried about its safety. After all, what they were about to face was a devastating war.


    Although Xian Xian was reluctant to leave, there was another Zhongshan on Tiang Ind, so its emotions weren''t too strong. Moreover, it also brought something back for Zhongshan.


    Tiang Ind, Great Dong Kingdom.


    In a hall, Zhongshan, Bao''er, and Xian Xian were present.


    Xian Xian spit out a jade slip, which was brought back by its main body at Zhongshan''s request.


    Grabbing the jade slip, Zhongshan looked at Bao''er. Bao''er also looked at the jade slip in surprise.


    "Is this the ''Central Secret''?" Bao''er frowned and said.


    "Indeed, this is the ''Central Secret'' left for you to cultivate by that immortal." Zhongshan said directly.


    Bao''er looked at the jade slip, then at Zhongshan, and gently said, "Master, do you think I should practice it?"


    Looking at Bao''er, Zhongshan smiled slightly, shaking his head and said, "As long as I can protect you, try not to practice it. Who knows what tricks she has put in there?"


    "Okay!" Bao''er nodded obediently.


    "Don''t worry, in the future, I will find stronger techniques for you, and never let you down." Zhongshan said.


    "Yes, I believe in you!" Bao''er replied gently.


    Meanwhile, Xian Xian stood aside, blinking its eyes as if studying the sentiments between the two.


    Putting away the ''Central Secret'', Zhongshan smiled at Xian Xian and said, "Xian Xian, thanks to you this time. So, what wishes do you have that you want to fulfill?" ��


    In the hall of Yuheng Sect.


    Zhongshan, Ada, and Nian Youyou were sitting, chatting over tea.


    "Sir, how was your trip to the Zhihuo Mountain Range?" Ada asked.


    "Yeah, and why did you ask Ada to keep an eye on me? Do you have some secret?" Nian Youyou said discontentedly.


    "I went to persuade the Zhihuo Wolf General, and it''s only natural that one person should appear more sincere." Zhongshan sipped his tea and smiled.


    "Oh? Did you seed, sir?" Ada asked eagerly.


    "Of course!" Zhongshan chuckled.


    "But wait, how could Zhihuo agree to be your mount? Last time, it ran away. Did you really manage to persuade it this time?" Nian Youyou looked incredulous.


    "Soon, it''ll be done. It won''t be long before the Zhihuo Wolf General brings the wolves of the Zhihuo Mountain Range to join us. Once we gather, we''ll immediately return to Wushuang City." Zhongshan said.


    "And it''s bringing the wolf pack too? What benefits did you offer them? How did you manage to bribe so many wolves?" Nian Youyou still didn''t believe.


    Just then, outside the hall.


    "Sir, sir, something''s wrong!" came the voice of Liu Suifeng.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhongshan looked at Liu Suifeng as he entered.


    "Wolves, there are wolves attacking again. Now, outside Yuheng Sect, there are many wolves, more and more. Could something have happened to Wushuang?" Liu Suifeng looked worried.


    "Master Liu, rest assured, everything''s fine. I sent Wushuang to handle something. As for this group of wolves, I summoned them here. Don''t worry, it won''t take long before I take them away." Zhongshan smiled.


    "Oh." Master Liu still seemed somewhat skeptical.


    However, Nian Youyou and Ada looked at Zhongshan in surprise, with Nian Youyou even hurrying out to see the wolf pack.


    "Sir, did you really summon the wolf pack? How many are there?" Ada asked excitedly.


    "How many? I''m not sure, but it should be all the demon wolves of the Zhihuo Mountain Range." Zhongshan chuckled.


    "All of them?" Ada''s face twitched strangely. Did the Zhihuo Wolf General really show such loyalty? Did they alle to pledge allegiance?

 Chapter 290: Eastern Marquis

    <h4>Chapter 290: Eastern Marquis</h4>


    Four monthster, Zhongshan returned to Wushuang City!


    Ten miles outside the south gate of Wushuang City, a giant red wolf, fifty meters tall, with eyes shining brightly, stood, emitting an aura that dominated all directions.


    Standing on the head of the giant wolf was Zhongshan, dressed in a ck robe, exuding an indomitable aura.


    This huge fire wolf was the Zhihuo Wolf General, and as a Wolf General, it had its own pride. It only acknowledged Zhongshan, so only he could stand on its head. Ada and Nian Youyou could only fly beside it.


    There was also Liushuifeng, who was appointed by Zhongshan as the newmander of the Wolf Cavalry. Although there were only wolves for now, without riders, they could be quickly assembled.


    Behind Zhongshan, there was a vast expanse of fiery red, consisting of fifty thousand demon wolves, each at least ten meters tall, towering figures, with the lowest cultivation level being thete stage of the Natal Realm.


    These fifty thousand demon wolves were the new troops Zhongshan had gathered over the past four months.


    What was the role of cavalry?


    In the battlefield, the role of cavalry was not to kill enemies but to quickly disperse the enemy''srge army, breaking up the solid formations, leaving them vulnerable to the ughter by their own forces.


    Fifty thousand wolf cavalry could rival a million foot soldiers.


    Zhongshan led the way, heading towards Wushuang City.


    "Enemy attack~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A seemingly "sharp-eyed" soldier of Wushuang City immediately shouted and quickly beat the rm drum.


    Suddenly, Wushuang City became tense, and various generals flew to the city walls, looking towards the so-called "enemy attack" from the south.


    When they saw the person riding the wolfing towards them, the generals all breathed a sigh of relief. It was okay, it was the Grand Marshal, the Grand Marshal was back.


    "Dong, dong, dong..." The soldier who sounded the rm was still beating the drum loudly.


    Zhao Chuan stepped forward, snatched the drumstick from the soldier, and red at him. The soldier looked depressed, not knowing what he had done wrong.


    During Zhongshan''s absence, Shui Wuheng temporarily managed Wushuang City. When they saw Zhongshan riding the wolf, like most of the generals, their eyes were full of surprise, admiration, and more of worship.


    The Huajing Realm, the wolf ridden by the Grand Marshal, was a Huajing Realm fire wolf!


    "Open the city gates~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    "Yes~~~~~~~~~~~~~" The soldier below shouted loudly.


    Then, the gates slowly opened.


    "All generals, follow me out of the city to wee the Grand Marshal!" Shui Wuheng said.


    "Yes!" The generals on the city wall were excited.


    Only Zhao Chuan frowned slightly. But he still followed the other generals to the south gate.


    Below the city wall, the generals lined up in two rows, with Shui Wuheng and Zhao Chuan at the forefront.


    "Greet the Grand Marshal''s return!" The generals eximed excitedly.


    "Ah, Wuheng, nothing major happened in Wushuang City during my absence, right?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Grand Marshal, during your absence, His Majesty sent two imperial decrees. The messenger delivering the decree is currently waiting at the City Lord''s Mansion." Shui Wuheng said immediately.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan pondered slightly.


    "Zhao Chuan!" Zhongshan ordered towards the other side.


    "Here!" Zhao Chuan responded immediately.


    "Meet the newmander of the Wolf Cavalry, Liu Wushuang. Now, take him and fifty thousand demon wolves to the Eighth Army Camp and treat them with the best hospitality," Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan responded loudly.


    "Greetings, Commander Liu," Zhao Chuan said immediately.


    Zhao Chuan knew the terror of the cavalry. His First Battalion of the Great Mystery Army had only a thousand tiger cavalry. Now, after the Grand Marshal''s four-month absence, he had managed to gather fifty thousand wolf cavalry. How strong would the Grand Marshal be now?


    Fifty thousand! And this Liu Wushuang had been appointed as themander of the wolf cavalry, indicating that the wolves surely trusted him. Someone who couldmand the trust of fifty thousand demon wolves was definitely not a simple character.


    "Greetings, Commander Zhao!" Liu Wushuang replied.


    "Wushuang, take two days off first, I''ll find youter!" Zhongshan turned to Liu Wushuang and said.


    "Yes, Grand Marshal!" Liu Wushuang responded.


    "Wuheng, take me to meet the imperial envoy," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuheng replied.


    Then, Shui Wuheng flew ahead, while Zhongshan was carried by the Zhihuo Wolf General. Ada and Nian Youyou followed closely behind, quickly flying towards the city.


    When they reached near the City Lord''s Mansion, Zhongshan jumped down from the Zhihuo Wolf General''s head and said, "Zhihuo, thank you for your trouble. In the future, if there''s no war, you can revert to human form."


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    After a burst of red smoke, Zhihuo Wolf General returned to its human form.


    "Were you just trying to establish military authority?" Zhihuo Wolf General frowned.


    "Yes, themander is the soul of the army. If the soul is strong, the army is strong!" Zhongshan nodded, not refuting.


    Zhihuo Wolf General nodded. Regardless, he had temporarily be Zhongshan''s mount, but Zhongshan did not discriminate against him. Instead, he treated him with great respect. Being so understanding, Zhihuo naturally didn''t have any objections.


    Ada walked up and carried Zhongshan on a cloud, flying towards the floating ind of the City Lord''s Mansion.


    In this way, at least on the surface, Zhongshan had three Huajing Realm powerhouses by his side. Now, Zhongshan''s safety was definitely greatly enhanced.


    Upon reaching the City Lord''s Mansion, Zhongshan went straight to the central hall.


    "Grand Marshal, you guys wait here, I''ll go inform the imperial envoy!" Shui Wuheng said.


    "Okay," Zhongshan nodded.


    Soon, two eunuchs-like men approached. Each of them took out a golden imperial decree.


    One of them looked at Zhongshan and said, "Zhongshan, ept the decree."


    "Long live His Majesty!" Zhongshan bowed respectfully.


    "In ordance with the heavenly mandate, His Majesty decrees that Zhongshan''s articles are full of brilliance like the Jiang River! Acknowledging the heavens and the people, henceforth, His Majesty decrees that Zhongshan is the top scorer of the new imperial examination, ranking first on the Great Luo Golden List, bing the champion schr of the Great Luo Dynasty''s new imperial examination! This is a decree!" the eunuch announced loudly.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty, I ept the decree!" Zhongshan reached out and took the imperial decree from the eunuch.


    The moment his finger touched the decree, countless golden qi surged from all directions towards Zhongshan''s body.


    Suddenly, Zhongshan''s body became golden, with a look of being bathed in heavenly favor.


    Zhongshan knew that this was the imperial fortune, the imperial fortune of the Great Luo Dynasty. From now on, he was the "soft body" of the heavens and the earth.


    The soft body of the heavens and the earth meant triple the cultivation speed.


    At the same time, in the sky above the ancient capital of the Great Luo Dynasty, amidst the countless manifestations of umted imperial fortune, suddenly, another blurry figure appeared.


    At this moment, Zhongshan had already connected to the imperial fortune of the Great Luo Dynasty. Among the manifestations of imperial fortune in the ancient capital, there was now a ce for Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan was extremely excited. Triple cultivation speed, the soft body of the heavens and the earth. This was truly excellent!


    "Zhongshan, ept the decree!" Another eunuch called out.


    "Long live His Majesty!" Zhongshan respectfully bowed again.


    "In ordance with the heavenly mandate, His Majesty decrees that Zhongshan, the top scorer of the new imperial examination, disyed outstanding talent. In his first battle at Wushuang City, he defeated twenty thousand troops and annihted the hundred and fifty thousand Da Yu Army, achieving remarkable deeds and enhancing the might of our Great Luo Dynasty. Therefore, His Majesty bestows upon Zhongshan the title of ''Eastern Marquis'' of the Great Luo Dynasty, with the authority to raise an army of five million to serve as the Grand Marshal of the East, leading the self-recruited army to swiftly pacify the twelve cities of the Da Yu Empire. This is a decree!" the eunuch announced loudly.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty, I ept the decree!" Zhongshan immediately responded loudly.


    As he epted the decree, once again, a surge of golden light emanated from his body. At the same time, in the sky above the ancient capital of the Great Luo Dynasty, the blurry image of Zhongshan formed from umted imperial fortune moved forward for a while.


    "Congrattions, Eastern Marquis!"


    "Congrattions, Grand Marshal of the East!" the two eunuchs congratted.


    "Thank you, gentlemen, for your decree!" Zhongshan replied immediately.


    "It''s gettingte. His Majesty has ordered us to return to the pce immediately after delivering the decree. Farewell!" one of the eunuchs said.


    "I''ll see you off!" Zhongshan said.


    "No need! Farewell!" the eunuch replied.


    Then, the two eunuchs hurriedly left the hall and quickly rushed towards the city gate.


    "These eunuchs of the Great Luo Dynasty, their cultivation is at least at the Combined Period...," Zhihuo frowned and eximed on the side.


    "Congrattions, sir!" Ada immediately said.


    "Congrattions for what? The decree clearly states that you have to raise your own army, which means the Great Luo Dynasty won''t send troops to support you. The next battles will depend on how you fight!" Nian Youyou interjected.


    "Then let''s recruit!" Zhongshan smiled.


    "Recruit? Although you''re given a quota of five million, but where will you get so many spirit stones to recruit soldiers?" Nian Youyou once again discouraged.


    But Zhongshan didn''t mind. Money? Isn''t fighting a way to make money? Money wille as you fight!


    "Sir, you are now the ''soft body'' of the heavens and the earth," Ada sighed again.


    "Yes, my bone structure... you know, cultivation is very slow. With the soft body, my cultivation speed will be faster in the future!" Zhongshan nodded.


    This sentence from Zhongshan didn''t mean much to Zhihuo Wolf General and Nian Youyou, but to Ada, it was chilling. Your speed is still slow?


    "Wuheng!" Zhongshan called out to Shui Wuheng.


    "Here!" Shui Wuheng immediately responded.


    "Prepare amodations for them. I''m going to rest. Tomorrow, bring me the map of the so-called ''Twelve Cities by the Sea,''" Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," Shui Wuheng immediately replied.


    Next, amodations were prepared for Nian Youyou and Zhihuo. Ada had his own ce.


    But Zhongshan sat alone in the main hall, closed the doors, and sat at themander''s desk. He unfolded the two decrees and spread them out.


    These were two decrees given to him. There was nothing surprising about them for Zhongshan, except for one thing that interested him��the seal on the two decrees.


    Imperial Seal! The red seal stamped by the emperor.


    "Commanded by Heaven, Longevity and Prosperity."


    The inscription was the same as the one on his own Square Heaven Jade Seal, but these eight characters exuded an even more majestic aura. Just a nce at them gave off a sense of supreme heavenly authority, a grandeur that stretched across eternity.


    Compared to these Square Heaven Jade Seals of the Great Luo Dynasty, the Square Heaven Jade Seal of the Da Yu Dynasty was far inferior.


    However, Zhongshan wasn''t in a hurry. Sooner orter, his Square Heaven Jade Seal would be even more powerful!


    As for the soft body? The lowest level of the soft body provided triple cultivation speed. Now that he had been enfeoffed and was leading arge army with the faith of the army, coupled with the umted imperial fortune of the Da Yu Dynasty, his cultivation speed was now five times faster than before!

 Chapter 291: The Twelve Cities by the Sea

    <h4>Chapter 291: The Twelve Cities by the Sea</h4>


    On the second day, Zhongshan sat at themander''s desk, with the generals standing respectfully on both sides.


    In the center of the great hall was a huge three-dimensional map. After all, the Divine Continent was vast, and the map only roughly outlined Zhongshan''s uing targets.


    The Twelve Cities by the Sea!


    These so-called Twelve Cities were twelve fortified cities near the sea. These twelve cities were extremely sturdy, even stronger than Wushuang City.


    "Are these twelve cities ancient?" Zhongshan asked with a frown.


    "Yes, General. These twelve ancient cities were built fifteen thousand years ago," Shui Wuheng exined.


    "Fifteen thousand years ago?" Zhongshan furrowed his brow.


    "General, do you know about the ''Great Hong Dynasty''?" Shui Wuheng asked.


    "Go on," Zhongshan instructed Shui Wuheng to exin in detail.


    "The Divine Continent originally had four major dynasties. Among them, the Great Hong Dynasty was the most powerful. Their national beast was the dragon, and their emperor was named ''Haotian.'' Six thousand years ago, Haotian defied the Heavenly Will, broke the shackles of mortal fate, reversed his mortal destiny, achieved immortal status, and ascended to be an immortal," Shui Wuheng exined.


    "The Great Hong Dynasty?" Zhongshan listened with a furrowed brow.


    "Yes, with the dragon race as their national beast, it is now the strongest race in the world. After the ascension of the Great Hong Emperor, the three princes and a regent of the Great Hong Dynasty split apart. They divided the vast Great Hong Dynasty into four great imperial dynasties. Faced with the emperors who could summon the dragon race, the remaining dynasties of the Divine Continentunched wars one after another to suppress them. Until all four of these splintered imperial dynasties were destroyed, the descendants of Haotian were wanted throughout the world. In the past decade, thest descendant of Haotian on Tiang Ind was finally exterminated! The Haotian lineage has been wiped out!" Shui Wuheng narrated.


    "These twelve cities were originally part of the Great Hong Dynasty?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yes, the Great Hong Dynasty built these twelve strongholds along the coast!" Shui Wuheng said.


    "Do any of the generals have strategies to capture the cities?" Zhongshan asked the others.


    However, the generals shook their heads, indicating that they had no feasible strategies.


    "General, these twelve strongholds are even more formidable than Wushuang City. It''s not easy to capture them. In the past, the city lords surrendered before they fell into the hands of the Da Yu Empire. Unless there are continuous victories from all directions, the city lords of these twelve strongholds will not give up resistance willingly," Shui Wuheng exined.


    "Even cities can be conquered. In a few days, we''ll go see just how sturdy these so-called Twelve Cities by the Sea are before nning our attack," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" the generals agreed.


    "Oh, by the way, how are the reports from the other directions?" Zhongshan asked.


    "The Da Yu Empire and the Da Guang Empire have recaptured the cities they lost to our empire," Shui Wuheng said.


    "Oh? They''ve recaptured them all?" Zhongshan was surprised.


    "Yes! However, they have not yet initiated any outward aggression or invaded our territory," Shui Wuheng said.


    "Tell me, how did Shui Jing, Qi Tianhou, and Jinchandu capture the cities?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yes, Qi Tianhou had a giant Qi Tian ape under hismand. The ape''s hide was tough and impervious to arrows. One day, it climbed into a city, opened the city gates directly, engaged in a fierce battle, and finally, after ten thousand soldiers from the First Battalion of the Da Xuan Army were killed or injured, Qi Tianhou slew the enemy''s leader. With no one to lead them, the enemy forces were in disarray and were easily captured by Qi Tianhou," Shui Wuheng exined.


    "Alright, what about the others?" Zhongshan continued to inquire.


    "Jinchandumanded an army and used so-called Buddhist principles to continuously influence the city lords. They also applied pressure by invoking the name of the Great Weitian Dragon Bodhisattva to forcefully break through the city. In the end, despite the death and injury of thirty thousand people, they managed to capture a city," Shui Wuheng said.


    "Hmm, what about Shui Jing?" Zhongshan asked.


    ncing at Zhongshan, Shui Wuheng looked somewhat strange as he replied, "General Shui Jing, perhaps inspired by your actions, followed suit and ultimately managed to capture a city with over twenty thousand casualties."


    "Hmm," Zhongshan nodded.


    "General, we just received a report!" Shui Wuheng said immediately.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan looked puzzled.


    "The Da Guang Empire''s Grand Commander Xiao Wang has reappeared and is now leading an expedition to the border regions," Shui Wuheng said.


    "Xiao Wang?" Zhongshan furrowed his brow in thought.


    Last time, due to the Millennium Ghost incident, he had only had a brief encounter with Xiao Wang, but they had not conversed deeply.


    "Xiao Wang is very powerful and is known as a military god in the Da Guang Empire. This time, the southwest campaign may be difficult," Shui Wuheng said.


    "The southwest? Facing the Da Guang Empire? Who else is facing the Da Guang Empire?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Shui Jing and Jinchandu are both facing the Da Guang Empire''s forces," Shui Wuheng replied.


    "Alright, since it''s Shui Jing against Xiao Wang, I want you to keep a close eye on that front and report to me at all times," Zhongshan decided after some thought.


    "Understood!" Shui Wuheng immediately replied.


    "If the Da Guang Empire is using Xiao Wang again, what about the Da Yu Empire? Has General Yiyuan been mobilized?" Zhongshan pondered.


    "There''s been no news so far. It seems not," Shui Wuheng replied.


    "No news? That''s a pity, but it might be for the best!" Zhongshan said thoughtfully.


    "General, we''ve been assigned to the Twelve Cities by the Sea, and others must have been assigned to different cities as well. When should we set out? We can''t let othersplete the task before us," Shui Wuheng said urgently.


    Looking at the excited Shui Wuheng, Zhongshan smiled faintly and asked, "During these days, how many troops have you managed to recruit?"


    "Reporting to the General, I have recruited a total of eight hundred thousand troops now. Including the First Battalion of the Da Xuan Army, we already have a million soldiers," Shui Wuheng said excitedly.


    "Heh, a million troops, quite ambitious. My quota is also five million, and I can still increase it, but Wuheng, your troops can''t be increased anymore. We can''t go to war right now," Zhongshan said.


    "Huh?" Shui Wuheng looked puzzled.


    "Quality over quantity in our troops! Even if you were to take out two hundred thousand troops topare with the First Battalion of the Da Xuan Army, do you think you could win?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Well..." Shui Wuheng furrowed his brow.


    "Even if you were to take out half, four hundred thousand troops definitely wouldn''t be a match for Zhao Chuan," Zhongshan affirmed.


    "General, you''re too kind!" Zhao Chuan immediately declined.


    "Whether I''m being kind or not, you should know in your heart. I don''t even need to see those newly recruited troops. I already know their strength," Zhongshan said.


    "But, they''re just recruited!" Shui Wuheng looked somewhat innocent.


    "New recruits need to be trained extensively. You can seek advice from Zhao Chuan. With your eighty thousand troops, there''s too much variance in quality. Some of them are simply not up to par and should be removed," Zhongshan advised.


    "Understood!" Shui Wuheng nodded.


    "On the battlefield, knowing oneself and knowing the enemy is the key to victory. Right now, we haven''t fully grasped our own army, let alone the enemy''s Twelve Cities by the Sea. Attacking now would only waste our troops and energy," Zhongshan instructed Shui Wuheng.


    "Yes, I understand my mistake!" Shui Wuheng sighed.


    "Heh heh, rest assured, we will only fight when necessary, and when we do, victory is assured. We won''t be greedy for temporary gains or glory; what we seek is the ultimate triumph!" Zhongshan encouraged.


    "Understood!" Shui Wuheng immediately replied.


    "Make use of the time to select members. In a few days, I''ll inspect the troops and choose those with potential to form the Wolf Cavalry Regiment at Camp Eight!" Zhongshan instructed.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuheng nodded.


    Da Yu Empire!


    Inside the pce, there were only two people.


    One sat on the dragon throne, the Emperor of the Da Yu Empire, Nn Da Emperor!


    The other was the former Iron-Blooded General and current Grand Commander of the nation, Tieshao.


    "Your Majesty!" Tieshao bowed respectfully to Nn Da Emperor.


    "What''s the matter? Everyone has left the court; is there something else?" Nn Da Emperor frowned.


    "Your Majesty, have you seen the recent battle reports? The Great Luo Empire hasunched a counterattack, a full-scale one. They''ve recaptured all the cities we previously took from them. It''s only been a few months!" Tieshao expressed concern.


    "War is like that, with gains and losses. Besides, our follow-up forces from the Da Yu Empire haven''t been mobilized yet," Nn Da Emperor said solemnly.


    "But the results of that battle... the impregnable city of Wushuang, with its formidable defenses, led by Wu''an with a force of one million and five hundred thousand, was actually captured by Zhongshan with only twenty thousand casualties. Twenty thousand against one million and three hundred thousand! Your Majesty, I''m not trying toin, but this battle was truly chaotic!" Tieshao remonstrated.


    "What exactly do you want to say?" Nn Da Emperor''s brow furrowed.


    "I want to say that Jilu Wang is ipetent. He has trapped the Great Yu Army in a perilous situation. I beg Your Majesty to reinstate Grand Commander Yiyuan and let him lead the Great Yu Army in a northern campaign," Tieshao pleaded with great respect.


    "Did Yiyuan instruct you to say this?" Nn Da Emperor''s face darkened.


    "No, the Grand Commander has little time left. He is currently indulging in worldly pleasures and doesn''t care about external matters. Even when I consult him, he forbids me from mentioning anything. Your Majesty, for the sake of the Da Yu Empire, please reinstate Yiyuan!" Tieshao bowed at a ny-degree angle, earnestly pleading.


    "Hmph, the Da Yu Empire can survive without Yiyuan. Since he resigned from the post of Grand Commander, he is no longer one. Without him, I can still pacify the Great Luo Empire, and the Da Yu Empire will stand strong," Nn Da Emperor said angrily.


    "But recently, I heard that Grand Commander Yiyuan is about to leave," Tieshao said anxiously.


    "Leave? Where to?" Nn Da Emperor''s eyes narrowed.


    "He said he wants to travel the world!" Tieshao said immediately.


    "Hmph, he''s not allowed to leave. Spread my decree: as soon as Yiyuan steps out of the Sky City, he will be charged with treason," Nn Da Emperor ordered.


    "Your Majesty!" Tieshao eximed anxiously.


    "You may leave!" Nn Da Emperor dismissed him directly.


    "Yes!" Tieshao could only sigh and leave.


    At Yiyuan''s residence, Yiyuan was still feeding the fish in the pond.


    Behind him, Tieshao, now the Grand Commander of the Da Yu Empire, still maintained the etiquette of a junior, recounting all the events of meeting Nn Da Emperor to Yiyuan.


    Watching the fish in the pond, Yiyuan gave a bitter smile. "Nn Piaoxue? He''s waiting. Waiting for good news from the frontlines to mock me in front of the world. If good newses, he''ll ridicule me; if bad newses, he''ll force me to lead the troops."

 Chapter 292: The Venomous Emperor of the West

    <h4>Chapter 292: The Venomous Emperor of the West</h4>


    Wushuang City!


    The construction by cultivators progressed rapidly. Most of the buildings that were previously dismantled by Zhongshan''s mobilization of the people were now rebuilt and restored by the citizens. However, the new structures seemed as if they had been relocated, appearing quite different from before.


    Shui Wuheng was training troops at the military school, while Zhongshan continued to study the geography of the surrounding areas.


    War? There was no rush. A de needs sharpening before it can cut wood! Soldiers need training before they can fight! Wushuang City was developing methodically, and Zhongshan''s army was growing rapidly.


    These days, Nie Youyou was nowhere to be found, and Ada and Zhihuo didn''t bother Zhongshan, giving him a rare moment of peace.


    However, on this particr day, a strange old man walked toward the southern gate of Wushuang City. He appeared exceptionally eerie.


    The old man wore robes of various colors. His hair was slightly white, and his face was smooth, except for the deeply lined eyes, which gave him a sinister appearance.


    Waving his multicolored sleeves, the old man smiled to himself and muttered, "This old man finally has someone to pass on his legacy! Taking on a disciple was truly difficult. It took more than ten years, and I still have to help her find things. But finally, she agreed!"


    In a very good mood, the old man swaggered toward the gate of Wushuang City.


    The guards at the gate noticed the strange old man early on. Two guards immediately rushed forward and asked, "Who goes there?"


    "You little brats dare to block this old man''s path? I''m in a good mood today and won''t bother with you. I''m here to see your city lord. Let your city lorde out and meet me!" The old man said bluntly.


    "Bold!" One of the gate guards eximed angrily.


    A single angry shout caused the old man to furrow his brow. He red at the guard.


    With just one nce, the guard''s face suddenly turned ck, and he copsed, unconscious. Strangely, he fainted instantly.


    It was too eerie, too uncanny. The other guard immediately shouted, "Intruder!"


    With a loud shout, the guard tried to carry the fallen guard away. However, as he lifted the man, his own face turned ck, and he too fainted.


    A look of disdain crossed the old man''s face.


    Moments after the guard''s shout, arge number of city guards swarmed in. In the blink of an eye, the civilians at the city gate were cleared away, leaving only the army surrounding the old man.


    In the lord''s mansion, Zhongshan was studying the map.


    "Commander, Commander, something bad''s happened!" A general rushed into the main hall.


    Zhongshan furrowed his brow and looked at the anxious general.


    "What''s wrong? Take your time and exin!" Zhongshan said.


    "Commander, at the southern gate, a peerless expert has arrived. Nearly a thousand of our men have already been... been..." The general said strangely.


    "What happened to them?" Zhongshan asked, his brow furrowing.


    "They were all poisoned and fell unconscious just by being looked at by him!" The general said.


    "Oh? Just by a nce?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yes!" The general immediately replied.


    "Why did he poison the city guards?" Zhongshan asked with a frown.


    "He wants to see you, Commander!" The general said.


    "Has anyone died?" Zhongshan asked again.


    "I don''t know. Nearly a thousand people have fallen unconscious, and no one dares to check because they would also be affected and immediately faint!" The general said.


    "Hmm, inform Zhihuo and Ada. I''ll go take a look." Zhongshan thought for a moment and said.


    "Understood!" The general immediately responded.


    Outside the southern gate of Wushuang City:


    In the center of an empty space stood the strange old man. Around himy nearly two thousand people who had fallen unconscious. Even two powerful cultivators in the Yuan Ying stage were lying on the ground.


    Surrounding the area, more guards were preparing for battle, bows drawn and aimed directly at the strange old man in the center. They waited for themander''s order to release a barrage of arrows toward him.


    However, being amander required more than just strength; it also demandedposure. After all, if theyunched this round of arrows, the nearly two thousand brothers on the ground would truly die. Moreover, the old man''s background was extraordinary. Could these arrows really deal with him? It was better to wait for themander''s decision!


    "I don''t have much time. Let your city lorde to see me!" The old man said impatiently.


    "Senior, please wait. I have already sent someone to inform him. We will have news shortly," the leading general reassured.


    "Hmm," the old man nodded.


    At that moment, Zhongshan, apanied by Ada and Zhihuo, flew to the city gate. Nie Youyou, however, was still out and hadn''t returned yet, leaving them unaware of her whereabouts.


    "Commander!" The guards near the gate immediately greeted Zhongshan with respect.


    At the same time, Shui Wuheng, Liu Wushuang, and Zhao Chuan also received the news and flew over.


    "Commander!" They respectfully bowed to Zhongshan as he approached the city gate.


    "Hmm," Zhongshan nodded and took the lead.


    With Zhihuo and Ada guarding on either side, the others followed behind as they walked through the long passage leading out of the city gate.


    Upon reaching the gate, the soldiers cleared a path, allowing Zhongshan to see the strange old man standing in the center.


    "Sir, that''s the Venomous Emperor of the West, a pinnacle expert of the Imperial Realm. His true abnormality lies not only in his strength but also in his use of poison. He once single-handedly poisoned an entire city in pursuit of revenge," Ada quickly briefed Zhongshan on the old man''s background.


    Clearly, this old man had quite a reputation.


    The Venomous Emperor of the West? Poisoning an entire city? What a ruthless heart and powerful poison, truly worthy of the title of Venomous Emperor.


    However, that wasn''t the main point. The key was that Zhongshan had seen this Venomous Emperor before.


    During the journey from the Kaiyang Sect to Wushuang City, escorted by Zixun, they passed through the Eastern Sea. Along the way, they encountered a young girl riding a dragon, apanied by arge number of sea dragons. Following behind her was the Venomous Emperor, earnestly trying to take the girl as his disciple. In the end, the girl managed to escape, but the Venomous Emperor continued to pursue her.


    Was it him?


    As Zhongshan appeared, the guards on both sides respectfully made way for the group of Wushuang City''s leaders.


    Meanwhile, not far away, the Venomous Emperor also looked at the approaching group with curiosity.


    The Venomous Emperor immediately recognized Zhongshan''s strength. Seventh level of the Golden Dan stage? However, he was being protected by a group of peerless experts. Moreover, their demeanor seemed like they were his subordinates?


    "Senior Venomous Emperor, we meet again!" Zhongshan smiled and spoke first.


    Zhongshan''s words caught the Venomous Emperor off guard. Do we know each other? And why are you trying to establish such a rtionship with me?


    "Who are you?" the Venomous Emperor frowned and asked.


    "More than seven years ago, on the Eastern Sea, I was with Elder Zixun from the Seven Star Hall, passing through the Eastern Sea. At that time, a group of sea dragons was running amok. To save his beloved disciple, the Venomous Emperor, without hesitation, chased after the sea dragons. I wonder how his beloved disciple is doing now?" Zhongshan said with a smile.


    Although what Zhongshan said was not entirely urate, it sounded pleasant to the Venomous Emperor''s ears. At least, it sounded pleasant to be addressed that way.


    With Zhongshan''s words, the Venomous Emperor remembered. Although he didn''t remember Zhongshan, he did remember Zixun. After all, powerful individuals were more memorable.


    However, the Venomous Emperor had no interest in getting close to Zhongshan or engaging in pleasantries with him.


    "Where is your city lord?" the Venomous Emperor asked directly.


    "I am Zhongshan. I am currently overseeing Wushuang City, in charge of both military and political affairs. I have the authority to make decisions regarding anything in Wushuang City. If you have any business, you can discuss it with me," Zhongshan said confidently.


    "You?" the Venomous Emperor widened his eyes skeptically.


    Although these people showed respect to Zhongshan, it was unimaginable for the Great Luo Dynasty to entrust the impregnable Wushuang City to a cultivator in the Golden Dan stage. However, seeing the confident demeanor of the other generals and officials, the Venomous Emperor could only reluctantly ept this fact.


    "I''m here to collect something from you," the Venomous Emperor said straightforwardly.


    Seeing the Venomous Emperor, Zhongshan smiled faintly. A poison expert? They were also a peculiar type of individual. If used properly, they could be incredibly useful. Zhongshan had been gathering resources from all over the world, but not soldiers, spiritual stones, magic weapons, or precious materials. He only sought talent because he had long known one thing: what was the most valuable thing?


    Something money couldn''t buy was the most precious! Soldiers could be recruited with money, spiritual stones were just currency, magic weapons could be bought, and even the most precious materials had a price. However, talents were priceless!


    "I have long admired you, Senior. If you have any requests, I will do my best to assist you. Why don''t we go to my residence and discuss it slowly to see how I can help you?" Zhongshan said with a smile.


    "Huh?" The Venomous Emperor was slightly stunned.


    Because the Venomous Emperor couldn''t imagine Zhongshan''s response. The intimidation and bribery they had prepared in advance seemed to have suddenly burst like a bubble. A strange feeling pervaded their body.


    Go to his residence? Looking at these people, the Venomous Emperor felt no fear at all!


    "Very well!" The Venomous Emperor nodded.


    Only then did Zhongshan wave his hand, and all the soldiers who were ready to shoot their arrows put away their bows. Through a few probing words earlier, Zhongshan had already understood the Venomous Emperor''s attitude. At the very least, he was reasonable.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s actions, the Venomous Emperor also noticed that the soldiers were obedient to Zhongshan''smand. He nodded and walked toward Zhongshan.


    Although the generals were somewhat worried, Zhongshan waved his hand at them.


    When the Venomous Emperor approached, Zhongshan said, "Senior, take a look at my subordinates."


    Zhongshan pointed to the two thousand people lying on the ground.


    Facing the poisoned soldiers behind him, the Venomous Emperor didn''t even turn around. Instead, he waved his sleeves, and a gentle breeze blew from behind him, sweeping across the area.


    "Daring to speak disrespectfully to me, if it were my old self, you would already be a pile of bones!" The Venomous Emperor left these words and didn''t bother to turn back.


    "Senior, please!" Zhongshan directly ignored the Venomous Emperor''s pretentious words.


    "Hmm," the Venomous Emperor nodded and followed Zhongshan into Wushuang City.


    As soon as everyone entered Wushuang City, the two thousand soldiers who had been lying on the ground as if poisoned all slowly sat up, as if they had all been detoxified. They were covered in cold sweat, clearly frightened by the Venomous Emperor''s presence.

 Chapter 293: The Seventy-Two Immortal Monuments

    <h4>Chapter 293: The Seventy-Two Immortal Monuments</h4>


    On the floating ind of the City Lord''s Mansion in Unmatched City!


    "Wu Hen, prepare a feast!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "No need. Just bring me what I came for quickly. I have another ce to go to right after this," the Western Poison Emperor interrupted immediately.


    "Very well. Wait outside for a moment while I discuss something with our guest. Just bring some tea," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded promptly.


    The Western Poison Emperor gave Zhong Shan a curious look, a strange smile ying on his lips. Wanting to speak with him alone? This young man certainly had guts.


    The two of them moved to a small pavilion and sat down across from each other. The others waited outside, and a maid soon arrived, serving tea to both Zhong Shan and the Western Poison Emperor.


    "What is it that you want, Senior?" Zhong Shan asked directly.


    "Heh, you''re more straightforward than I am, kid. Fine, I''ll be quick. I''vee to take the ''Immortal Monument'' of Unmatched City," the Western Poison Emperor stated.


    "The Immortal Monument?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "What? Unwilling to part with it?" the Western Poison Emperor''s face darkened.


    "There''s been a misunderstanding, Senior. I''ve simply never heard of this Immortal Monument. Allow me some time to investigate and see what I can find," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Hmm!" The Western Poison Emperor nodded.


    Turning his head, Zhong Shan called out to the people outside the pavilion, "Do any of you know what the Immortal Monument is?"


    The gathered officials looked puzzled, but Ah Da''s eyes suddenly brightened as if he was about to speak, only to be cut off by Zhong Shan''s look.


    "Wu Hen, you grew up in Unmatched City and know it better than anyone. Tell me, what is this Immortal Monument?" Zhong Shan immediately turned to Shui Wuhen.


    Ah Da''s lips moved as if he wanted to say something, but Zhong Shan''s stern nce silenced him, leaving him confused but obedient.


    "I''m not sure, my lord. I''ll need to check the records of Unmatched City to see if there''s any mention of such a monument," Shui Wuhen replied.


    "Then hurry and gather a team to bring the records here and start searching through them," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded immediately and quickly gathered a team of officials. They brought tables and chairs and started poring over a mountain of documents.


    Turning back to the Western Poison Emperor, Zhong Shan apologized, "I''m sorry, Senior. I''ve only been in charge of Unmatched City for a few months."


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s diligence, the Western Poison Emperor''s irritation seemed to ease.


    Ah Da appeared to know something, but Zhong Shan had his reasons for not letting him speak. Perhaps he wanted to engage the Western Poison Emperor in a conversation?


    "May I ask, Senior, how did youe to know that the Immortal Monument is in Unmatched City?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    In a good mood, the Western Poison Emperor replied, "Someone informed me."


    "Senior, with your formidable strength and reputation as the world''s foremost poison master, this Immortal Monument must be some kind of powerful artifact?" Zhong Shan asked cautiously.


    "An artifact? Haha, if it were some kind of powerful artifact, it wouldn''t be left in Unmatched City, would it? Don''t worry, it won''t cost you anything, and besides, there''s more than one Immortal Monument in the world," the Western Poison Emperor replied, giving Zhong Shan a peculiar look.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan nodded thoughtfully.


    "Kid, don''t get any funny ideas," the Western Poison Emperor warned, looking at Zhong Shan with a sly smile.


    "No Hidden Motives? What Could I Possibly Want?" Zhong Shan Laughed


    "No hidden motives? What could I possibly want?" Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "You know exactly what you want," the Western Poison Emperor said with a wicked smile.


    "Alright, I''ll be straightforward. Senior, would you be interested in holding an honorary position in my army?" Zhong Shan asked directly. When dealing with a cunning old fox like the Western Poison Emperor, it was best to be upfront.


    "An honorary position? I''m used to my freedom, and besides, I have other matters to attend to," the Western Poison Emperor shook his head.


    "I''m not asking you to do anything. You just need to leave your name on our records. Come and go as you please. If you ever need something, my army can help you find it or get it done," Zhong Shan exined.


    "So, you''re saying I only need to lend a hand when your army is in a dire situation?" the Western Poison Emperor inquired.


    "That would be ideal, of course. But it''s entirely up to you, Senior. You''re not obligated to help if you don''t want to," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Entirely up to me? No obligations at all?" The Western Poison Emperor raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, you wouldn''t have to do anything if you don''t want to," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    "Hah, kid, there have been no fewer than a hundred people trying to recruit me in the past. Each one of them was a prominent figure in their own right. Who do you think you are? What makes you think you can help me?" The Western Poison Emperorughed.


    "Senior, are you not impressed by my soldiers?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "Impressed? If I wanted, I could have an entire empire''s army at my beck and call. What advantage do you have?" The Western Poison Emperor shook his head dismissively.


    "I understand that you don''t want to be tied down. Otherwise, there would surely be some great power capable of satisfying you," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "Exactly! I hate being controlled by anyone," the Western Poison Emperor stated.


    "Hehe, Senior, you misunderstand. I wouldn''t dare try to control you. My army wouldn''t even be a challenge for you," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Hmm?" The Western Poison Emperor looked at Zhong Shan curiously.


    "All I want is to use your name to deter the petty viins who might try to harm my troops. Even though my army is weak, it''s still an imperial force with vast resources and intelligence. If you hold an honorary position in my army, I can''t promise to find every Immortal Monument for you, but I can at least provide you with leads on where they might be," Zhong Shan smiled.


    Zhong Shan had quickly deduced from the Western Poison Emperor''s haste to leave and refusal to attend a banquet that he was likely in search of another Immortal Monument. There were many such monuments in the world, and he probably didn''t know the exact location of all of them. Even if he did, times had changed, and they might not be in the same ces anymore. Thus, Zhong Shan sought to entice him with the prospect of new information and support.


    The Western Poison Emperor hesitated, contemting Zhong Shan''s offer.


    "Commander, we found it!" Shui Wuhen announced.


    "Oh? Where is it?" Zhong Shan immediately stood up, and the Western Poison Emperor, excited, did the same.


    Shui Wuhen nced at the Western Poison Emperor, then at the City Lord''s Mansion. "There used to be an Immortal Monument in Unmatched City, but it waster used as the foundation stone for the main hall of the City Lord''s Mansion."


    "Dismantle it and retrieve the monument!" Zhong Shan ordered without hesitation.


    "Uh, yes!" Shui Wuhen responded immediately.


    The Western Poison Emperor frowned slightly.


    When they reached the main hall, the cultivators quickly began to dismantle the building. With a few powerful strikes and some applied magic, the luxurious hall was soon reduced to rubble. It didn''t take long to unearth the Immortal Monument mentioned by Shui Wuhen.


    The Immortal Monument was grey and stood a hundred meters tall, resembling a massive tombstone. It had an ancient and grand appearance, with arge character, "Feng," inscribed on one side. The other side was as smooth as a mirror.


    It didn''t look particrly special, and that was precisely what made it extraordinary. It was so ordinary that it became strange because spiritual senses couldn''t detect its presence at all, an eerie and unusual phenomenon.


    "Senior, Is This It?" Zhong Shan Asked With a Smile


    The Western Poison Emperor reached out to touch the monument, sighing in satisfaction, "Yes, it''s exactly like the one that girl has. Haha, I''ve found the first one!"


    With a flick of his hand, he didn''t bother to ask Zhong Shan for permission and simply stowed the monument away.


    The onlookers were visibly upset, but Zhong Shan remained calm and unperturbed.


    "The Immortal Monument of Unmatched City has been found. If you''re interested, Senior, I can dispatch people to swiftly locate the whereabouts of the other monuments and inform you," Zhong Shan offered.


    The Western Poison Emperor looked at Zhong Shan with a peculiar expression.


    "Kid, don''t you want to know what this monument is for? You''re just letting me take it?" the Western Poison Emperor asked, slightly puzzled.


    "What difference would it make? I promised to give it to you, so I won''t go back on my word," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    Zhong Shan spoke the truth. If it were an ordinary artifact, he wouldn''t care much. If it were a powerful one, even if he didn''t give it to the Western Poison Emperor, it would likely end up in the hands of the Grand Sovereign. Instead of getting nothing, it was better to let it be put to good use.


    The Western Poison Emperor stared at Zhong Shan for a moment before saying, "Very well. Although I''m known as a ruthless poison master, I do have a clear sense of honor and enmity. Besides, you seem to get along with me. I''ll allow you to use my name to scare off the petty troublemakers."


    "Thank you very much, Senior," Zhong Shan said excitedly. Things had gone quite smoothly.


    "No need to thank me. It''s because of you that I found this monument so easily. I still need to find nine more, so I won''t stay any longer," the Western Poison Emperor replied.


    "Senior, I will immediately send people to the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty to gather information on the other Immortal Monuments. How should I notify you when I find something?" Zhong Shan asked.


    The Western Poison Emperor still found the whole situation somewhat surreal. Everything was going too smoothly. However, for the sake of the Immortal Monuments, he said, "I''lle find you in a year!"


    "Alright!" Zhong Shan nodded in satisfaction.


    The Western Poison Emperor nodded as well, then flew away in an instant.


    As he flew off, Zhong Shan let out a long sigh of relief.


    "Commander, why did you help him so much?" Shui Wuhen asked with a frown.


    "At the very least, we don''t have to worry about the Western Poison Emperor bing our enemy. He''s powerful enough to poison an entire city. Even if we can''t make him our friend, we definitely don''t want him as an adversary," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen immediately replied.


    "Rebuild the main hall and bring me all the records about the Immortal Monuments," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen answered.


    Zhong Shan''s reasons for helping the Western Poison Emperor were far moreplex. Through him, Zhong Shan''s gaze extended to something muchrger: the Dragon n!


    He remembered the day he saw that young girl being pursued by the Western Poison Emperor. She rode a dragon, surrounded by a protective entourage of dragons. It was only a brief encounter, but it had left asting impression on Zhong Shan.


    Was the girl the one the Western Poison Emperor referred to?


    "To take something, you must first give something!" Zhong Shan had long understood the deeper meaning of this phrase, which is why he had made those concessions.


    By evening, the main hall was reconstructed!


    Zhong Shan sat inside, looking through the records on the Immortal Monuments. After finishing, he took a deep breath, frowning slightly.


    "Sir, you called for me?" Ah Da walked in from outside the hall.


    "Yes, Ah Da,e and sit!" Zhong Shan said in a friendly manner.


    "What can I do for you, sir? Is it about the Immortal Monuments?" Ah Da asked after sitting down.


    "Yes. Earlier, you seemed like you wanted to say something. Do you know anything about the Immortal Monuments?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Ah Da.


    "Yes, it''s quite coincidental. Because of the princess, I happen to know a bit about the Immortal Monuments. I wanted to say something earlier, but I saw you stop me, so I didn''t speak up. Actually, there are seventy-two Immortal Monuments in total across the world," Ah Da said after some thought.


    "Seventy-two in total? Seventy-two Immortal Monuments?" Zhong Shan frowned at Ah Da.

 Chapter 294: Probing the Twelve Cities

    <h4>Chapter 294: Probing the Twelve Cities</h4>


    In the grand hall of the Unmatched City''s city lord''s mansion, the atmosphere was tense with anticipation. Zhong Shan sat at themander''s desk, his gaze unwavering as he addressed Ah Da, who stood before him with a grave expression.


    "Seventy-two Immortal Monuments, you say? They were all left behind by the ancient Hongtian Dynasty?" Zhong Shan''s tone was inquisitive, hinting at deeper curiosity.


    "Yes, indeed. No one knows their true purpose. Back in those days, Unmatched City was just one of the many cities under the Hongtian Dynasty," Ah Da exined.


    "So, the Hongtian Dynasty distributed the seventy-two Immortal Monuments across seventy-two different cities?" Zhong Shan quickly deduced.


    "Exactly. For reasons unknown, each of these cities had an Immortal Monument ced at its center. It''s quite astonishing that the monument in Unmatched City ended up being used as part of the foundation for the central hall," Ah Da said, shaking his head with a wry smile.


    "There''s no such thing as a pointless artifact. Even though we don''t know its purpose, it''s likely that the other Immortal Monuments have also been divided among the major dynasties of the world, correct?" Zhong Shan probed further.


    "Your analysis is spot-on, as always, sir. After the fall of the Hongtian Dynasty, the seventy-two monuments were scattered. Our Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty has managed to collect fifteen of them, all of which are currently stored in the Ancient Holy Capital," Ah Da replied.


    "Have any significant findingse from studying them?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "None at all. Even the emperor couldn''t decipher their secrets. To be honest, the emperor hasn''t put much effort into researching them. He simply handed them over to the Ministry of Works for continuous study. I happened to learn about them because I apanied the princess there once," Ah Da revealed.


    "No breakthroughs at all?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Not a single one. The monuments are incredibly sturdy, impervious to scrutiny by divine sense, and we don''t even know what material they are made of. This has remained one of the unsolved mysteries for the Ministry of Works. To understand their true purpose, one might need to gather all seventy-two Immortal Monuments, but that''s practically impossible," Ah Da said with a bitter smile.


    "Why is it impossible?" Zhong Shan queried.


    "Because these Immortal Monuments are scattered among various powerful factions across the world. The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty, the Taisui Heavenly Dynasty, the Pure Land of Bliss, and the Netherworld all have some. Who could possibly gather them all?" Ah Da sighed, shaking his head.


    "Hm." Zhong Shan nodded thoughtfully. Even though it was just preliminary information, it piqued his interest. The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty had fifteen Immortal Monuments? This warranted further attention.


    Ten dayster, within the city lord''s mansion in Unmatched City, Zhong Shan sat at themander''s desk, nked by two rows of generals.


    "Liu Wushuang!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Present!" Liu Wushuang responded immediately.


    "The wolf cavalry has now been assembled. The next step is training. If they continue to operate in a disorganized manner like before, their potential will be wasted. You must leverage their inherent strengths. Over theing year, focus on training the wolf cavalry into a disciplined military force. For specific training methods, consult with the tiger cavalrymander," Zhong Shan instructed seriously.


    "Yes!" Liu Wushuang replied promptly.


    "Shui Wuhen!" Zhong Shan called out next.


    "Present!" Shui Wuhen responded immediately.


    "While I am away, guard Unmatched City with your life. The city is easy to defend and hard to attack. As long as you don''t act recklessly, no one can take it from us. Screen everyone who enters and leaves the city thoroughly. Even if it means forming long queues, ensure that no one gets through without a proper check," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded dutifully.


    "Also, keep your troops in constant training. If you treat peacetime as if there is an invisible enemy, then when the real enemyes, you will be prepared," Zhong Shan added.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen answered.


    "During my absence, Shui Wuhen will be in charge of Unmatched City. Anyone who disobeys his orders will be treated as a traitor," Zhong Shan dered.


    "Yes!" All the generals responded loudly.


    "Zhao Chuan!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Present!" Zhao Chuan quickly stepped forward.


    "Take five Nascent Soul-stage generals with you and prepare. Tomorrow morning, we will leave the city to start investigating the twelve coastal cities!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan promptly epted the order.


    Two monthster, Zhong Shan, along with Da, Nian Youyou, Zhi Huo, Zhao Chuan, and five other Nascent Soul-stage generals, headed south to scout the terrain.


    The ten of them stood atop a mountain peak, with Zhong Shan at the forefront, gazing into the distance.


    "I can''t miss this time. Last time, I went out for just a few days and missed the whole show because the Xidu Emperor showed up!" Nian Youyouined to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan only smiled faintly without replying, continuing to look at the distant scene.


    Far away, dark clouds gathered, indicating an imminent downpour. Under the cloudsy a grand city. The city walls were ck, bristling with sharp spikes, resembling a giant hedgehog. On the towers, shadows of people were bustling, and well-trained soldiers could be seen patrolling.


    "What a solid fortress!" Zhong Shan remarked.


    "Yes, Commander, this city is the first of the twelve coastal cities. The other eleven are just as difficult to conquer. Unless there''s internal chaos, it will take heavy casualties to capture just one of these cities," Zhao Chuan exined.


    "Internal chaos? That''s tough!" Zhong Shan sighed as he looked at the distance.


    "Indeed. The Da Yu Empire is now on high alert for war. The city gates are almost always closed, opening only at fixed times after thorough checks to let a group of people in or out," Zhao Chuan added.


    "Zhao Chuan, in your opinion, how long would it take the Grand Heaven Army to capture this city?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "That depends on how many troops we use!" Zhao Chuan thought for a moment before answering.


    "One million?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "One million? Impossible. This city is no weaker than Wushuang City. One million soldiers wouldn''t be enough to take it," Zhao Chuan shook his head.


    "How about four million?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Four million? If we attack forcefully, it would take at least four months, and we''d suffer heavy casualties. It would be a bloody battle," Zhao Chuan calcted.


    "Four months? Then it''s not invincible, just difficult to conquer," Zhong Shan reassured.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan responded immediately.


    "Sir, have youe up with a n?" Da asked from the side.


    "I''m not a deity. Conquering such a formidable city is not that easy," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Commander, could we enlist the help of the people like we did in Wushuang Cityst time?" Zhao Chuan suggested.


    "Last time was different. The people of Wushuang City had their belongings taken and were homeless, filled with anger. Driven by great benefits, they could reim their possessions and even gain more, which is why they seeded. But even then, tens of thousands of people died. Even if we asked them to do it again, they might not dare. Here, it''s even less likely. As for the outer sects? Forget it; they''re just a rabble," Zhong Shan dismissed Zhao Chuan''s idea.


    "How about sneaking people in and coordinating an inside attack?" Nian Youyou proposed.


    "An inside attack requires people on the inside to coordinate. Even if we manage to sneak in a few, what difference would it make? It''d be like delivering them on a tter. Even if you, a Sovereign Realm expert, got in, it wouldn''t help. An entire city''s army targeting you would be overwhelming. This is a battlefield, a ce of ughter. Individual power has limited impact here unless you are strong enough to single-handedly defeat an entire city. Clearly, we''re not at that level yet," Zhong Shan exined with a smile.


    "If I sneak in, I could capture and kill the enemymanders. Without their leaders, they''d be like a headless snake, falling into chaos," Nian Youyou protested.


    "Most of themanders are experts; they''re not so easy to kill. Moreover, during this period of war readiness,manders will surely be in the safest ces, surrounded by countless soldiers for protection. As long as you''re held off for a bit, arge number of troops will arrive andpletely target you. It would be very dangerous then!" Zhong Shan shook his head, rejecting the idea.


    "You think you''re so smart!" Nian Youyou said angrily, but there was a strange look in her eyes as she nced at Zhong Shan.


    "So, Commander, what should we do?" Zhao Chuan asked with a frown.


    "Let''s continue observing. In the meantime, you all should meticulously record the surrounding terrain. Also, send scouts to find out what kind of people these garrisonmanders are," Zhong Shan considered and said.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan responded immediately.


    A monthter, Zhong Shan and the nine others had scouted the remaining eleven cities.


    It was hard! Very hard! Capturing these twelve cities proved to be an incredibly difficult task. Given their high state of alert, taking them quickly seemed almost impossible.


    The twelve cities were all located along the eastern coast, with very few nearby sects. However, there were a few small viges, truly low-level settlements.


    One noon, Zhong Shan and his group arrived at a small town and booked a room at an inn.


    "Commander, our scouts should arrive soon," Zhao Chuan reported.


    "Hmm, have the innkeeper bring us some local specialties. It''s been a long time since we''ve had a good meal," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "You still have the appetite to enjoy food? It''s been almost three months with no progress. Aren''t you worried?" Nian Youyou looked at Zhong Shan, puzzled.


    "What''s there to worry about? The twelve cities are so fortified that there''s nothing we can do for now. Just because they are secure doesn''t mean I should change my lifestyle. I''ll eat when I need to eat and drink when I need to drink. For amander, maintaining a calm mindset is crucial," Zhong Shanughed.


    "So, we just wait idly?" Nian Youyou asked oddly.


    The others also looked at Zhong Shan, knowing that his words determined the fate of millions.


    "Rather than smashing eggs against rocks, it''s better to wait for the right opportunity. Besides, we only have a preliminary understanding of the twelve coastal cities. We need to learn more about their history before making detailed ns. Zhao Chuan, your task is to gather all historical records about the twelve coastal cities, as well as the personal histories and conflicts of the garrisonmanders," Zhong Shan instructed Zhao Chuan.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan responded immediately.

 Chapter 295: Haomeili

    <h4>Chapter 295: Haomeili</h4>


    As everyone enjoyed the local specialties, a man suddenly burst in.


    The group paused their meal as the man kneeled immediately upon entering, clearly one of Zhao Chuan''s scouts.


    "Reporting to Commander!" The scout spoke respectfully.


    "What have you discovered?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "To the southeast, we''ve spotted General Wu''an of the Da Yu Dynasty leading a hundred thousand troops toward the East Sea. We''re unsure of their intentions," the scout reported respectfully.


    "Wu''an?" Zhong Shan frowned, a hint of curiosity crossing his eyes.


    "Yes, General Wu''an''s troops are marching urgently, as if something critical is happening," the scout added.


    Zhong Shan dropped his chopsticks with a ''ck'' and stood up.


    "Let''s go, prepare to move out!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan responded promptly.


    Leaving the scout to settle the bill, Zhong Shan and his ten-man team swiftly departed in the direction indicated by the scout''s intelligence.


    Two dayster, at nightfall!


    Standing atop a mountain peak, Zhong Shan and his group looked into the distance towards the base of another mountain!


    At the foot of that mountain, something of great interest caught everyone''s attention.


    Firstly, there were a hundred thousand disciplined soldiers. Each one either had a bowstring drawn or held arge de, organized in battle formation, all focused on a massive hemispherical light source in the center.


    The light source, red in color, resembled a formation of sorts, shaped like a half-sphere. It seemed to act like arge canopy, exuding a powerful aura, akin to a colossal prison trapping those inside.


    Within this colossal formation-prison stood a girl of about sixteen or seventeen, her hair tied in twin braids, exuding a youthful and beautiful aura. Her fair skin and slightly flushed cheeks made her look vibrant and lively. Her lips were pressed together in anger, her eyes wide open, ring fiercely outside with an expression that spelled doom for whoever was out there.


    Next to the girl was a dragon, a golden dragon.


    Camel head, deer antlers, carp whiskers, ox nose, snake body, and eagle ws. A truly powerful member of the dragon n.


    The dragon''s body was massive, upying almost half the space within the prison. It was the mightiest beast n in the world, currently imprisoned alongside the young girl.


    The dragon''s body bore numerous wounds, with blood trickling down, indicating it had just been involved in a fierce battle before being trapped.


    The golden dragon was confined, its body coiling around and pushing against the prison, but the prison seemed too powerful. It barely deformed, pushing the dragon back to its original position.


    This gigantic red prison was formed by a thousand people using hook-like treasures, aimed solely at imprisoning the dragon and the young girl within.


    "The Da Yu Dynasty''s ''One Qi Battle Array,''" Nian Youyou frowned.


    "The One Qi Battle Array is rarely deployed. Besides Emperor Nn or the Grand Commander of Da Yu, few others can activate it. Was it sent by the Giant Deer King?" Zhao Chuan frowned in surprise as well.


    Zhong Shan stared into the distance because he recognized some familiar figures and things within.


    Firstly, there were the ''Immortal Monuments'' standing outside the One Qi Battle Array. Eight towering Immortal Monuments, each a hundred meters high, stood conspicuously in that spot.


    And in front of the prison, stood someone familiar to Zhong Shan, General Wu''an.


    And then there''s Xie Yan, the demonic young man who imnted the demonic seed in Princess Qianyou. In the end, Zhong Shan extracted the demonic seed and imnted it in Xiao Qiushui.


    Xiao Qiushui, the grandson of Xiao Wangzhi, once buried the man who met Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou before encountering the millennium ghost.


    At the moment, Xie Yan and Xiao Qiushui are both among therge army.


    However, Xiao Qiushui was lying on the ground, seemingly unconscious, with a ckened face and faint ck aura hovering over his unconscious face.


    But Xie Yan stood beside Wu''an.


    "General Wu''an, rest assured. After helping me resolve the matter at hand, the people of the Netherworld, my lineage, will assist you," Xie Yan said to Wu''an.


    "I thank the Demon Lord on behalf of His Majesty!" General Wu''an smiled.


    "Hmm!" Xie Yan nodded, then looked towards the young girl in the cage.


    "Haomeili, I''ve done what I promised you. I retrieved the eight Immortal Monuments from the Netherworld, but what about you? You changed your mind? Hmph, my subordinate, Xiao Qiushui, what have you done to him?" Xie Yan said angrily.


    However, the young girl remained silent, biting her lip with cold resentment and hatred in her eyes.


    "Demon Lord, this shield of the One Qi Battle Array simultaneously istes sound inside and out," Wu''an said.


    "You can''t hear? But she understands lip-reading, and so do I. Don''t interfere, this is between me and her," Xie Yan told Wu''an.


    "Very well!" Wu''an stepped aside.


    But the young girl looked at Wu''an coldly. If it weren''t for him, if it weren''t for this general, she and Xiao Jin would have entered the ocean long ago, and they wouldn''t have been trapped here.


    Lip-reading, would Zhong Shan not understand it? Although they were separated by a very far distance and couldn''t hear what everyone was saying, Zhong Shan knew what they were talking about as long as he saw it.


    "He deserves it. Dare to stop me!" The young girl Haomeili was angry at Xiao Qiushui lying on the ground.


    "But how did you do it? Why without warning, without injury? Was it done by the Golden Dragon?" Xie Yan stared at Haomeili.


    "Xie Yan, you better let me go, otherwise, when the Dragon Kinges, you won''t escape!" Haomeili said coldly.


    "Let you go? Didn''t we agree before? Bring back the eight Immortal Monuments, and you''ll be mypanion. Why did you change your mind at thest moment? Still want to take away the Immortal Monuments while I''m not looking?" Xie Yan said sternly.


    "You''re too old. I''m only seventeen. I won''t marry you!" The young girl immediately shook her head.


    Hearing the young girl''s words, the corners of the mouths of the soldiers around them twitched, wanting tough but not daring to.


    "Hmph, I''ll fulfill my promises." Xie Yan''s face turned cold.


    "Demon Lord, this little girl has no real strength. She''s not even in the congenital period. What are you talking to her about? Take her back and do whatever you want!" Wu''anughed on the side.


    Xie Yan gave Wu''an a cold look, obviously ming him for being nosy, and Haomeili also gave Wu''an a fierce look. Now Haomeili hated Wu''an.


    Turning his head, Xie Yan nced at the Golden Dragon and took a deep breath.


    Just as Xie Yan was about to say something.


    On the top of the distant mountain peak, Zhao Chuan and five generals each appeared with a strong bow, and six strong bows were drawn into a full moon shape. At the moment Zhong Shan waved his hand lightly.


    "Whoosh, whoosh..."


    Six breaking arrows, aimed directly at the center of the cage in the distance, the person who made the cage.


    The breaking arrows came too quickly and too suddenly.


    They directly aimed at six key figures of the One Qi Battle Array. By the time everyone noticed the breaking arrows, they were already in front of these six individuals.


    "Bang, bang, bang..."


    Instinctively, under their innate intuition, the six quickly dodged. The six breaking arrows pierced directly into the ground.


    Scatter if you dodge, die if you don''t, chaos if you die. The six didn''t hesitate to scatter.


    In that moment of dispersal, the light shield of the cage also dissipated.


    "Roar~~~"


    Seizing the moment when the cage''s shield dissipated, the golden dragon suddenly raised its head and roared wildly. The sound was filled with infinite destion, infinite sorrow, and infinite grievance.


    The dragon''s roar echoed through the sky.


    "Hum~~~"


    Suddenly, the One Qi Battle Array was activated again, and the red light shield once again trapped the golden dragon and the young girl.


    The well-trained army quickly protected the thousand people around the One Qi Battle Array, while the other breaking arrows turned towards Zhong Shan''s direction.


    "Damn it!" Xie Yan''s eyes widened in anger.


    But Wu''an didn''t feel anything wrong. He only knew that someone dared to cause trouble.


    "Fire~~~" Wu''an shouted angrily.


    "Whoosh~~~"


    Nearly twenty thousand breaking arrows swiftly shot towards Zhong Shan''s direction.


    "Boom~~~"


    The collective power of the breaking arrows was extremely terrifying. Even though there were twenty thousand of them, in this dark night, they were still rtively scattered. Only about a thousandnded near Zhong Shan.


    Under the full protection of Nian Youyou, A Da, and Zhi Huo, three super strong individuals, with a loud bang, all the breaking arrows were blocked.


    At this moment, Wu''an could finally see Zhong Shan clearly from a distance. His eyes widened in surprise.


    "Zhong Shan~~~?" Wu''an yelled fiercely.


    Flying to the top of another mountain peak, Zhong Shan shouted, "General Wu''an, we meet again!"


    Zhong Shan disrupted the situation just now because he recognized in that instant who the girl in the One Qi Battle Array was. Wasn''t she the disciple that Xiduohuang wanted to take in? And wasn''t the golden dragon next to her the same one that the little girl had stepped on nearly eight years ago?


    At that time, a group of flood dragons escorted them, indicating that the golden dragon had an extraordinary identity among the dragon n, not simple at all. Perhaps Xie Yan was strongly interested in the golden dragon''s identity, hence his insistence that the young girl be his Daopanion.


    Moreover, more importantly, her surname was ''Hao,'' Hao?


    Hao, the surname of the Great Hong Heavenly Dynasty, which had been destroyed, and the descendants of the Hao n were hunted down throughout the world. Therefore, few people had the surname Hao.


    The beast of the Great Hong Heavenly Dynasty was the dragon. They could summon the dragon n. And this young girl surnamed ''Hao'' just happened to have a dragon apanying her, and it was not a low-status dragon.


    The identity of the young girl was about to be revealed. She was a remnant of the Great Hong Heavenly Dynasty, a descendant of the Hao family. Furthermore, from the conversation with Xie Yan earlier, she was collecting the Eight Immortal Monuments, and even Xiduohuang was collecting the Eight Immortal Monuments for her?


    With this series of connections, Zhong Shan suddenly realized everything. This girl must be saved without a doubt. Moreover, rescuing them might not only involve his own ten people but also potential allies, and these allies woulde from that golden dragon.


    A group of flood dragons escorted them. What kind of status did the golden dragon have? Not far from the East Sea, as long as the golden dragon cried out desperately. Then his team could change the weights.

 Chapter 296: The Rise of Hundred Dragons Stirring Thousand Waves

    <h4>Chapter 296: The Rise of Hundred Dragons Stirring Thousand Waves</h4>


    "Release the arrows, shoot him dead!" Wu''an roared.


    "Whoosh whoosh whoosh����"


    A barrage of broken gang arrows streaked forth.


    "Boom����"


    Beneath the foothills of Zhongshan, the mountains shattered instantly. Three Sovereign Realm experts, under full protection, narrowly dodged the main volley of arrows and blocked the peripheral ones.


    Seeing Wu''an in the distance, Zhongshan smirked. It wasn''t a smile of personal safety, but rather a mocking one aimed at Wu''an''s disarray. Facing him, Wu''an''sposure was shattered, making him unworthy of being Zhongshan''s opponent, regardless of his cultivation.


    "General Wu''an, are you unaware of the cmity that awaits you?" Zhongshan''s voice boomed.


    "Halt!" Wu''an waved his hand, and all archers ceased their attack.


    "Zhongshan, I''ll give you a chance to speak. I don''t believe you have arge army following you," Wu''an called out.


    Simultaneously, he made a subtle gesture behind his back, signaling all soldiers to ready their bows. Arrows wouldn''t harm Zhongshan from this distance; they needed to lure him closer. But would Zhongshan fall for Wu''an''s ploy?


    "Do you know the identity of the dragon you''ve imprisoned? Before long, you''ll taste bitter consequences. Even if you remain unscathed, your hundred thousand troops will suffer heavy losses. Do you believe me?" Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Humph, deceiving the masses!" Wu''an retorted angrily, stabilizing the soldiers'' morale with a fierce shout.


    "Don''t believe me? Ask Xie Yan behind you if what I say is true," Zhongshan smiled.


    If it were the astute Xie Yan, he wouldn''t be swayed by Zhongshan''s words. Even if true, he would rally all forces to resist. But Wu''an was not Xie Yan; he nced back at Xie Yan.


    This nce was scrutinized by all soldiers. The once steadfast warriors now showed signs of doubt.


    "General Wu''an, you''d better leave here quickly!" Xie Yan spoke. As he wasn''t amanding general, he didn''t need to consider the consequences.


    Yet his words shook the foundation of their morale.


    All soldiers wore expressions of uncertainty and concern.


    "What''s going on?" Wu''an frowned.


    At the same time, he looked towards the battle formation where a dragon and a young girl stood together. Hao''s beautiful face was cold, emitting an unusual chill that belied her age.


    "Whoosh���� whoosh���� whoosh���� whoosh����"


    From the east, a deafening roar of tidal waves suddenly resounded.


    As if massive tsunamis were approaching, each thunderous boom grew louder, drawing nearer towards the army. The sea seemed to surge closer with each passing moment.


    Wu''an leapt into the air, gazing towards the east.


    Waves nearly three hundred meters high?


    This was within the mountains and forests��how could there be such oceanic waves here?


    As he watched the colossal waves rushing towards him, Wu''an felt his hairs stand on end, a sense of foreboding spreading rapidly throughout his body.


    Has the earth sunk? How did the waters of the Eastern Sea roar all the way here? So much water, so many waves��what in the world is happening?


    "Roar���� Roar���� Roar����"


    Amidst the waves, resounded the mighty dragon''s cries that shook the heavens.


    Following the dragon''s roar, Wu''an felt his scalp tingle


    as he looked over. Flood dragons��countless flood dragons, not less than a hundred flood dragons, and many more hidden beneath the vast waters, were eagerly racing towards him with wild roars.


    Among them, there were two serpent dragons and several true double-horned dragon ns, roaring furiously as they charged forward.


    Thousands of towering waves, hundreds of roaring dragons!


    Wu''an knew this was big trouble.


    "Retreat! Everyone, retreat!" Wu''an bellowed to the army below, rushing towards Xie Yan to personally escort him in one direction.


    "Boom����"


    The first arriving serpent dragon and three true dragons whipped their tails, a thunderous crash shattering the entire battle formation.


    "Roar����"


    The golden dragon within the formation, freed atst, shouted excitedly. With a swift flick of its head, it lifted Hao beautifully, its massive dragon head ring angrily.


    "Ssh ssh ssh����"


    Endless waters of the Eastern Sea poured down madly. In an instant, the entire mountainside was submerged in water, the surrounding valleys filled, and numerous peaks were drowned.


    Watching from afar, Zhongshan saw the waters, seemingly summoned by the dragons from the Eastern Sea. All that came was water��water flooding everything, causing devastation.


    Countless lives were lost due to the furious dragon roars.


    In a sh flood, Wu''an led the army in retreat, but they were too slow. Only the most elite managed to escape, while the others were quickly engulfed by the deluge.


    In the waters, it was the domain of the flood dragons. Rolling and tumbling, they swiftly entangled and drowned those caught in the flood.


    After the onught, countless casualties befell Wu''an''s hundred thousand strong army. Only thirty thousand of the most elite soldiers managed to escape, fleeing for their lives without a moment''s pause.


    "Roar����"


    The dragons stared at the small golden dragon''s injuries, each one furious.


    "Roar����"


    "Roar����"


    The dragons roared, clearly intent on chasing down the remaining thirty thousand soldiers of Wu''an''s army, determined to leave none behind.


    "Dragon Generals, there''s no need to go. Now that I''m out here again, they dared to imprison me and Little Jin. They will surely meet a bad end," Hao, with anger in her voice, dered.


    Though the young girlcked cultivation, for some reason, the dragons seemed to trust her words deeply. It wasn''t because of Little Jin, but something inherent in the girl herself. As they looked at her, the dragons held a reverence.


    Facing the direction where Wu''an''s army fled, the little girl shouted angrily, "Wu''an, you bullied me, and you will face retribution! I curse you all��may you be crushed to death by giant rocks, no, by stars falling from the sky! And Xie Yan, you won''t escape either. I curse you to be cut into ten pieces, no, a hundred pieces! Ah����"


    The little girl''s venomous shouts sounded like a release, like she was reiming her dignity with a touch of childish temper!


    After this tirade, Hao seemed to be in a much better mood. Surprisingly, the dragons no longer pursued Wu''an''s remaining army.


    After venting her frustrations, Hao Meili nced towards the distant peaks where Zhongshan and the others stood, her eyes devoid of any gratitude, as if everything were merely expected. She turned to the dragons and said, "Back to the Dragon Pce. Little Jin is injured."


    "Roar����"


    The dragons roared wildly, and amidst their swaying forms, the floodwaters swiftly rushed towards the east. The dragonsmanded the waters, heading swiftly towards the Eastern Sea. Meanwhile, the eight Immortal Monuments were carried away by eight of the flood dragons.


    In no time, they disappeared from Zhongshan''s sight.


    "How rude. We just saved her, and she didn''t even say thank you," Nian Youyou muttered, looking at the departing Hao Meili with annoyance.


    "The Dragon n? Is this the power of the Dragon n?" Zhongshan frowned in surprise.


    "The Dragon n, starting from flood dragons, has the formidable ability to cause great upheaval in water. They can manipte vast amounts of seawater. This area relies on the Eastern Sea, so they can act as they please, leveraging their innate advantage in the sea. They will never be exterminated. This natural gift is incredibly powerful, even surpassing our Sovereign Realm experts specializing in water magic," A Da exined.


    "However, their numbers aren''t necessarily thergest. That little golden dragon just now seemed to have a high status," Nian Youyou pondered.


    Watching from afar, Zhongshan''s expression turned serious as he muttered to himself, "Dragon n? Eastern Sea? Dragon Pce?"


    "Zhongshan, the dragons are gone. What are you still looking at?" Nian Youyou nudged Zhongshan abruptly.


    The nudge brought Zhongshan back to his senses; evidently, he had been lost in thought.


    "Let''s go, pursue Wu''an!" Zhongshan dered.


    "Huh?" The others immediately nodded, and A Da whisked Zhongshan away on a cloud, leading the group towards the direction Wu''an and his army had fled.


    Perhaps Wu''an and his men had fled too hastily. By daybreak, they had finally caught sight of Wu''an and his thirty thousand troops.


    However, Xie Yan was nowhere to be seen, likely having left midway.


    At daybreak, the thirty thousand troops arrived near one of the cities not far from the coast��the third city among the Twelve Seaside Cities.


    The mighty army charged towards the city.


    "General, should we blend in and enter the city to gather information?" Zhao Chuan suggested promptly.


    "It won''t be easy to blend in," Zhongshan frowned.


    "Whoosh����"


    Suddenly, an incredibly piercing sound rang out, and a powerful air current descended from above, directly hitting the top of Zhongshan''s head.


    From above?


    Not only Zhongshan''s head, but countless tall trees on the surrounding mountains were also forced to bow under this mighty wind pressure. Zhongshan stood at the edge, where the airflow impact was strongest, but the city ahead faced the brunt of it where Wu''an''s army was stationed.


    Everyone was startled, their eyes filled with astonishment, quickly setting up protective shields and looking up.


    The sun? Was the sun falling?


    A massive fireball plummeted from the sky, incredibly gigantic and moving at an astonishing speed. The air in front of the fireball already showed signs of distortion, exining the sudden appearance of massive air currents below.


    "A falling star?" eximed Zhihuo Langjiang.


    Without hesitation, A Da grabbed Zhongshan and swiftly retreated. The others reacted just as quickly, fleeing towards safety at the fastest speed possible.

 Chapter 297: Unbelievably Unlucky!

    <h4>Chapter 297: Unbelievably Unlucky!</h4>


    By an incredible coincidence, a colossal meteor was hurtling directly towards Wu''an''s army. It moved too fast, and the pressure it exerted was immense, paralyzing the entire army as if they were trapped in a nightmare.


    "Hold the line����!" Wu''an shouted with all his might.


    "Roar����!"


    Under the enormous pressure, the entire army simultaneously raised their weapons skyward, summoning every ounce of strength they had. At this moment, there was no room for holding back. It was utterly exasperating: just as they were about to enter the city, a meteor from the heavens decided to crash down directly upon them. How could their luck be so atrocious?


    With all theirbined effort, they fought against the impending doom, but the meteor''s speed was overwhelming. In a blink, it was upon them.


    The meteor''s impact created a shockwave so powerful that the air below seemed toyer upon itself like an immense shield crashing down.


    "Boom����!"


    It was as if a massive ball of fire descended, creating a gigantic crater at the very spot where the army stood. All thirty thousand soldiers perished beneath the meteor.


    From afar, Zhongshan and hispanions swallowed hard. This was beyond belief!


    Could a meteor really strike with such devastating force?


    At that moment, from the edge of the crater, a figure in a ck robe staggered into view.


    It was Wu''an. He had narrowly escaped at thest moment, reaching the edge and only being grazed by the meteor. Even so, he was severely injured.


    Gazing at the deep crater, Wu''an wore an expression of utter disbelief, his eyes wide open in shock. How could such a thing happen? A meteor, a once-in-a-millennium event, and it just had to crash right here? Killing his remaining thirty thousand troops?


    Why did it have to be like this? How would he face the prince? How could he exin this to the emperor? Reporting back that they had disturbed the dragon n, lost seventy thousand soldiers to a flood was already absurd. Now, on the way back, a rare meteor had wiped out the rest of his men?


    Clutching his deformed right arm, Wu''an''s forehead bulged with veins. He raised his head and shouted to the heavens.


    "Damn you, heavens����!"


    His voice was filled with boundless resentment, directed at the sky.


    But as soon as he finished shouting, Wu''an''s eyes were filled with terror. Another gigantic fireball was hurtling towards him.


    Another meteor wasing straight for him.


    "Boom����"


    Wu''an, once again pinned by the pressure, tried to resist and flee. But the meteor wasing too fast.


    In an instant, Wu''an was struck back into the crater.


    "Boom, boom����"


    A series of explosions followed. Seven or eight smaller meteors rained down from the sky, crashing directly into the crater where Wu''an had fallen.


    Too brutal!


    Too unlucky!


    Wu''an''s misfortune was unimaginable!


    Normally, a second meteor would never fall in the same spot as the first. Yet Wu''an faced ten meteors crashing into the exact same ce.


    Too eerie!


    How could anyone be so unlucky? A once-in-a-millennium event, and here were ten, all in the same ce. It felt like divine retribution, specifically targeting Wu''an.


    Everyone was dumbfounded. Zhongshan and his ninepanions stared at the scene in disbelief, as did the garrison in the distant city. It was beyond theirprehension��utterly bizarre.


    It was just too strange!


    On the city wall, the garrisonmanders were too terrified to evene out and take a look. This was far too bizarre! Despite the clear, sunny sky, no one dared to take the risk.


    ncing at the sky, Zhongshan and his group were still in shock.


    "A''da, Zhihuo,e with me to retrieve the meteorites," Zhongshanmanded, quickly flying off on his de.


    "Sir, it''s dangerous!" someone called out immediately.


    Dangerous? What danger could there be now? The celestial stones were lying right there; if they didn''t retrieve them now, when would they? Were they worried that more meteors might fall? The odds of that happening were much slimmer than one might think.


    Zhongshan had already used his mind''s eye to scan for anomalies in the naturalws around him. There were none. What had just happened was an extraordinary coincidence. With ten meteorites having already fallen in one ce, the probability of morending there again was minuscule.


    Zhongshan took off, followed reluctantly by Zhao Chuan and the others. A''da swiftly carried Zhongshan to the crater, with Zhihuo by his side. Only Nian Youyou hesitated, her eyes filled with uncertainty and fear, but she quickly followed suit.


    In no time, they reached the crater.


    Zhongshan wasted no time surveying the scene.


    Collecting the meteorites was his priority. He worked swiftly!


    In a sh, he had collected all ten meteorites. The crater was now a mass grave for Wu''an''s thirty thousand soldiers, including Wu''an himself, who had been reduced to a bloody pulp.


    The Sovereign Realm? What good was it? Under the wrath of the heavens, it crumbled just the same.


    After Zhongshan had secured the enormous meteorites, A''da reached out for Wu''an''s corpse.


    But Wu''an''s spirit was quick, and it immediately darted towards Zhongshan.


    Zhihuo and Nian Youyou moved to intercept, but Zhongshan stopped them.


    A Sovereign Realm spirit was an invaluable prize.


    Although Wu''an hesitated momentarily, he ultimately resolved to seize Zhongshan''s body.


    In a blink, he entered Zhongshan''s body.


    Zhongshan wasted no time. He gestured for the others to carry him away, and he sat cross-legged on a cloud.


    With one previous experience under his belt, he handled this situation with even greater ease the second time around.


    The Eight Extremes Celestial Tail opened its mouth, and Wu''an, feeling a surge of frustration, was swallowed whole!


    In just half the time it takes to burn an incense stick, Zhongshan opened his eyes as if nothing had happened.


    The others stared at him in disbelief, while Zhongshan himself was a bit frustrated. Swallowing a Sovereign Realm spirit had no effect? Why was he still at the seventh stage of the Golden Core Realm? Although he was now at the peak of the seventh stage, he was still in the seventh stage.


    "You''re okay again?" Nian Youyou asked, her eyes wide with bewilderment.


    "Why wouldn''t I be?" Zhongshan replied, raising an eyebrow.


    Everyone felt a cold sweat break out on their foreheads.


    That was a Sovereign Realm spirit! You, you dealt with it in just half the time it takes to burn an incense stick? Are you sure you weren''t possessed?


    "General, are you sure you''re alright?" Zhao Chuan asked uncertainly, ncing at Zhongshan.


    "Quit wasting time and get back to where we were," Zhongshan snapped.


    "Yes, sir!" Zhao Chuan responded immediately.


    "Where are we going?" A''da asked, puzzled.


    "Back to where the dragons were imprisoned, where we were before. Quickly!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes, sir!" A''da replied.


    In the city, even after Zhongshan and his group had vanished into the vast clouds, the garrisonmanders atop the city walls remained in a state of shock, swallowing nervously. Who were those people who dared to venture out so fearlessly?


    General Wu''an was truly dead?


    How were they supposed to report this to their superiors? What would they tell the Emperor? That he was killed by a meteorite? And what happened to the meteorites? Would they admit that due to their fear, someone else hade and taken them away?


    Themanders on the city walls were feeling a massive headache. Yet, no one dared to leave the city; they would have to wait for the city lord to arrive before taking any action.


    Zhongshan led his group swiftly back to the ce where the dragons had been imprisoned, as he wanted to verify something, something so bizarre that even he found it hard to believe.


    By midday, Zhongshan and his group had returned to the previous location. The ground was littered with corpses of the seventy thousand soldiers who had perished in the flood caused by the dragons.


    The battlefield was a scene of utter devastation, with skeletons scattered all over the ce.


    Standing on a mountain peak, Zhongshan quickly scanned the surroundings, his gaze finally settling on a muddy valley. He led the group swiftly toward the muddy area.


    The mud was covered with numerous footprints.


    "Don''t step on them," Zhongshan warned the group.


    The others looked at Zhongshan in confusion as he continued to analyze the footprints.


    "Someone has been here?" Zhao Chuan frowned, noticing the footprints in the mud, indicating recent activity.


    The footprints were chaotic and varied in depth.


    After studying them for a while, Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed. He had previously noted that this was where the body of Xiao Qiushuiy.


    Xiao Qiushui''s body was missing. The footprints, seemingly belonging to ten people, pointed towards the northwest based on their depth and direction.


    "That way! Quickly!" Zhongshan instructed A''da.


    "Yes!" A''da responded immediately, carrying Zhongshan on a cloud as they headed rapidly in the indicated direction.


    Although the others were puzzled, they refrained from asking questions.


    By evening, they arrived at a small town where Zhongshan had stationed a scout.


    Zhongshan immediately questioned the scout: "Since yesterday, who hase this way? Has anything unusual happened?"


    "Reporting, General. Around noon, ten people dressed in red carried a coffin past here and engaged in a battle at the mouth of that valley. I only dared to check after the fight and found a body, which had been dismembered," the scout reported.


    "Take me to see it!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" the scout replied promptly.


    Zhongshan frowned deeply. Red-d people? Carrying Xiao Qiushui? Were they sent by Xiao Wang? No, he had to see the body to be sure. If it was as he suspected, it would be too strange for words.


    Quickly, the scout led them to the valley, where half a mountain had been sheared off, the area was inplete disarray, clearly the site of a fierce battle, with blood sttered everywhere.


    Soon, they found the dismembered body.


    The corpse''s weapons and storage bracelet had been taken by those who had investigated earlier. Only the dismembered body remained.


    The body had been cut into many pieces, even the head had been severed and taken away.


    "Xie Yan! It''s Xie Yan!" A''da suddenly eximed.


    Xie Yan, a notorious figure, had been killed? By those ten people in red? Zhongshan recognized the clothing fragments from the body and was already counting the pieces of the dismembered body when A''da shouted.


    There were exactly ny-nine pieces. Including the head that had been taken away, there were a total of one hundred pieces. Not one piece more, not one piece less.

 Chapter 298: The Body of a Thousand Evils

    <h4>Chapter 298: The Body of a Thousand Evils</h4>


    Xie Yan was dismembered into a hundred pieces, and Wu''an, along with his army, was killed by a falling meteor!


    Everything seemed too bizarre! The strange manner of their deaths, the eerie precision, it was all exactly as Hao Meili had cursed.


    "Wu''an, you bullied me. You will face retribution. I curse you, no, I curse your entire army and you to be crushed by giant stones, no, by the stars from the sky. And Xie Yan, you won''t die well either. I curse you to be hacked into ten pieces, no, a hundred pieces. Ah����������������������������������"


    The words were still vivid in their memory. At the time, Hao Meili hadshed out in anger, her curses seemingly just childish outbursts, venting her frustration to save face.


    But now, everything she had said hade true, and in less than a day. What was even more bizarre was that these events were not a direct realization of her curses but seemed to be orchestrated by fate itself.


    A meteor falling from the sky, who has such power to pluck stars to crush Wu''an?


    And Xie Yan, killed by the swords of ten people in red. These red-d individuals had collected Xiao Qiushui''s body, clearly killing Xie Yan after discovering a demonic seed on him. They were likely sent by Xiao Wang or someone close to him. They couldn''t possibly be in league with Hao Meili.


    It was too strange!


    "Could it be a curse technique?" Nian Youyou spected in shock.


    "Huh?" Zhongshan turned to look at Nian Youyou.


    "No, it doesn''t make sense. Hao Meili has no cultivation. If it were a curse technique, she would have suffered bacsh. And it happened way too fast! Even the strongest curse techniques in legends aren''t this exaggerated!" Nian Youyou pondered with a frown.


    Zhongshan scanned the faces of those around him, each showing different emotions. Although everyone was surprised, they seemed to have their own thoughts. Taking a deep breath, he said, "A''da, let''s return to Wushuang City!"


    "Huh? Sir, are we going back now?" A''da asked in confusion.


    "Lin Hai''s twelve cities have already been investigated. Now, I just need Zhao Chuan to gather the rumors and reports about the garrisonmanders for me." Zhongshan said.


    "Understood!" A''da responded immediately.


    With that, the group set off towards Wushuang City.


    "Zhongshan, aren''t you curious about Hao Meili?" Nian Youyou stood by Zhongshan''s side, puzzled.


    "I am more inclined to believe it was a coincidence!" Zhongshan smiled.


    "A coincidence? How is that possible?" Nian Youyou said incredulously. It was too bizarre.


    "If you don''t believe me, I can''t help it. I believe it was a coincidence, so it must be a coincidence. Alright, let''s not talk about her anymore." Zhongshan said with a smile.


    <strong>Return to Wushuang City</strong>


    Two monthster, in Wushuang City!


    Zhongshan and his group had returned. After a short rest, they gathered at the City Lord''s Mansion.


    In the central hall of the City Lord''s Mansion.


    Zhongshan sat at themander''s desk, with Zhihuo Wolf General standing before him. The door behind them was tightly shut, and Zhihuo Wolf General had isted the sound.


    "Zhihuo, you have more experience than I do. There were too many people around back then, so I couldn''t ask. What do you think about the deaths of Wu''an and Xie Yan?"


    "Don''t you believe it was a coincidence?" Zhihuo said, slightly puzzled, as Zhongshan had previously insisted it was a ''coincidence''.


    "Heh? A coincidence? If it were a coincidence, Hao Meili wouldn''t have stopped the dragons from chasing us. The dragons were very respectful to her, which shows they believed her words deeply. This means Wu''an and Xie Yan were cursed to death by Hao Meili." Zhongshan said with certainty.


    "Then why ask me?" ze frowned.


    "Although I have gathered everyone, they all have their own agendas. But you, ze, are different. You represent the wolf n, and the wolf n will never betray me. For the prosperity of the wolf n, you won''t side with any other forces, so I trust you the most," Zhong Shan said, looking at ze.


    ze felt slightly moved by Zhong Shan''s words and nodded, "Yes, as Nian Youyou mentioned, there is a type of curse magic that can kill people through curses. However, the person casting the curse must have a very high level of cultivation to resist the bacsh, and each curse causes significant harm to themselves. But Hao Meili''s cultivation is very low, it''s unlikely."


    "Is there any other possibility?" Zhong Shan frowned and asked.


    "There is one more, but it''s too strange," ze thought for a moment and said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan stared at ze.


    "I heard from the Supreme that this is an extremely rare case, urring once in ten thousand years. It''s a peculiar constitution called the ''Body of Ten Thousand Curses''," ze said after some thought.


    "Body of Ten Thousand Curses? What is that?" Zhong Shan looked at ze seriously.


    "''Ten Thousand'' means it appears once in at least ten thousand years. ''Curses'' implies it''s extremely uncanny. This constitution has a very stringent condition: the mother must be a ''Nine Generations Grudge Woman''," ze exined.


    "Nine Generations Grudge Woman? Why is that?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "A Nine Generations Grudge Woman is someone who has died with immense grievances for nine consecutive lives. Each life''s resentment could shake heaven and earth. Over nine lives, the umted negative energy is unimaginable. If a male child is born, the negative energy is neutralized and dissolved. But if a female child is born, it bes the Body of Ten Thousand Curses," ze said.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Nine lifetimes of resentment can shake the heavens and earth, causing the heavens and earth to feel remorse. This intense negative energy is not tolerated by the world. The Nine Generations Grudge Woman would be annihted by the heavens, her soul scattered. It seems that to bnce things, the heavenspensate the female child with an extremely rare destiny," ze exined.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan frowned as he listened.


    "This means that if someone targets her or harms her, they will be immediately gued by karma. Even if they only harbor malicious thoughts towards her, without having the chance to act, they will suffer misfortune and may die because of their intentions. And anyone who has harmed her before, if cursed by her again, will face retribution unless they are extremely powerful or hold a high position in the world''s order," ze said with a strange expression.


    No wonder ze looked puzzled. It seemed too bizarre, only allowing her to harm others, but not allowing anyone to harm her?


    ze didn''t believe it, and Zhong Shan was equally shocked. This wasn''t about fairness, it meant that the girl with the Body of Ten Thousand Curses was almost invincible!


    She would be truly invincible. Who would dare to oppose her? Only she is allowed to harm others, no one can harm her?


    Cultivation? What''s that? Wu An was at the Emperor Extreme level, yet he was cursed to death by Hao Meili, who only had Postnatal cultivation!


    Is Hao Meili the Body of Ten Thousand Curses?


    Though the probability is extremely low, it''s not impossible.


    "Do you think she is?" ze asked Zhong Shan.


    "Let me think about it." Zhong Shan frowned, lost in thought.


    Zhong Shan recalled every word Hao Meili had said, over and over again in his mind.


    "Dragon generals, no need to go. I''m already outside now. They dare to imprison me and Xiao Jin, they will not meet a good end."


    They dare to imprison me and Xiao Jin, they will not meet a good end?


    With this thought, Zhong Shan frowned and said, "You said earlier that if someone targets her or harms her, they will be immediately gued by karma?"


    ze nodded, "Yes, meaning they will experience a series of misfortunes and disasters, even dying because of their malevolent thoughts."


    "Yes, but only if Hao Meili is the Body of Ten Thousand Curses," ze said.


    "Hmm, meaning those who target her will suffer misfortune. So we simply shouldn''t target her. Her curses can only affect those who bully or target her; she can''t curse innocent people. Otherwise, if she stayed at home cursing every day, wouldn''t the entire divinend be cursed to death?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "You mean as long as we don''t target her or treat her with respect, we''ll never be cursed?" ze asked in amazement.


    "Exactly. To ensure you don''t forget, whenever you see her, think of Di Xuan Sha to form a conditioned reflex. This way, you''ll never be cursed by her," Zhong Shan suggested after some thought.


    "Thank... thank you, General!" ze said sincerely in the end.


    "Hmm, you may go now. Bring A-Da to me," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" ze bowed and retreated.


    Zhong Shan sat at his desk and began pondering again.


    Zhong Shan was a person who was good at summarizing. He constantly reviewed past clues, even if they were from over a decade ago.


    Hao Meili, seventeen years old? A bloodline of the Hao family?


    Sixteen years ago, the Third Prince of the Hao family suddenly appeared on Tiang Ind. ording to the final situation, the Third Prince summoned the Jiao Dragon using his life force, not to escape, but to lead everyone away?


    Why lead everyone away? The earlier frenzy of the snakes was not without reason; it was to transfer something by the Third Prince. Something infinitely precious. So precious that the Third Prince was willing to exchange his life for it?


    <strong>"Casting the Heavenly Court"</strong>?


    Was it <strong>"Casting the Heavenly Court"</strong>?


    Transferred to where? When everyone believed that the Third Prince was thest bloodline of the Hao family, the Third Prince chose to use his life to divert everyone''s attention. That means the Third Prince knew there was still a bloodline of the Hao family, and <strong>"Casting the Heavenly Court"</strong> was to be delivered to the Hao family''s bloodline.


    The Hao family''s genealogy must have been thoroughly investigated by countless people. The only possible hidden bloodline would be a newly born baby, not listed in the genealogy. The Third Prince knew about this baby and nned to give <strong>"Casting the Heavenly Court"</strong> to her, using his life to erase all attention so she could grow up safely.


    How tragic!


    This baby is very likely Hao Meili, and she might even be the bloodline left by the Third Prince.


    Based on this analysis, could it be that Hao Meili is the daughter of the Third Prince?


    Thinking of this, Zhong Shan suddenly stood up and paced back and forth in the hall. He didn''t even notice when A-Da had entered the hall.


    A-Da waited quietly. It wasn''t until Zhong Shan figured everything out that he noticed A-Da.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan''s face suddenly revealed an excited smile, as if something had clicked in his mind.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan finally saw A-Da.


    "A-Da, when did you get here?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "An incense stick ago!" A-Da replied with a slightly strange expression.


    "Uh, I guess I was too absorbed in my thoughts," Zhong Shan shook his head and smiled.


    "Master, you consider the matters of the world, naturally thinking more deeply than us brutes. It''s only right," A-Da said with a smile.


    "Hehe, I called you here because I have something to ask you," Zhong Shan said.


    "Please go ahead, Master," A-Da responded immediately.


    "Sixteen years ago, on Tiang Ind, about the Third Prince of the Hao family whom you were chasing. That''s what I want to ask about!" Zhong Shan said directly.

 Chapter 299: Ambitions

    <h4>Chapter 299: Ambitions</h4>


    "Third Prince Hao?" A-Da asked in confusion.


    "Yes, exactly. The Third Prince of the Hao family. I want to know, where was his body buried after his death?" Zhong Shan stared at A-Da and asked.


    "The body? It wasn''t buried," A-Da replied.


    "Not buried?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Hmm. At the time, during the hour of the boar (��ʱ), the Third Prince''s life force was exhausted, and he died. The Jiao Dragon abandoned him and fled. After his body was inspected by everyone, it was taken by the princess," A-Da exined after thinking for a moment.


    "With the princess?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    "Hmm. At that time, no one dared to contest with the princess. She said she wanted to take it back and have experts study the bloodline of the Third Prince. So, the body was preserved in ice and taken back. It might still be with the princess, or it could be with Tian Lao now," A-Da spected.


    "The princess asked Tian Lao to study it?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "That''s what the princess said back then," A-Da confirmed.


    Hearing A-Da''s ount, Zhong Shan slowly sat down, frowning and contemting for a while. A-Da respectfully waited by his side.


    After some thought, Zhong Shan said, "A-Da, I have a task for you."


    "Please give the order, Master!" A-Da responded immediately.


    "I''ll write a letter. You must deliver it to the princess personally. She will instruct you on what to do next," Zhong Shan looked at A-Da and said.


    "You want me to return to the Ancient Holy Capital?" A-Da asked in surprise.


    "Yes, hurry to the Ancient Holy Capital. I''ll write a letter for the princess. Don''t worry about things here; there will be no issues with safety. I won''t deploy troops until you return. I''ll be waiting here in Wushuang City," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, A-Da thought for a moment and then said, "Understood!"


    The next day, A-Da disappeared from everyone''s sight!


    Zhong Shan was in no hurry toy siege; instead, he sent a letter, personally delivered to the Great Xuan City, and ced on the desk of the King of Great Xuan.


    The King of Great Xuan sat at his desk, reading and rereading the letter, with seven or eight strategists standing in front of him, discussing among themselves.


    Gently cing Zhong Shan''s letter down, the King of Great Xuan looked at the gathered strategists.


    "You''ve all read the letter. What are your thoughts on Zhong Shan?" the King of Great Xuan asked slowly.


    "Your Highness, considering Zhong Shan''s actions over the years, he is a person of great strategy andposure, handling matters with exceptional wisdom and calmness. He is a rare talent, and Your Highness needs such a person," one of the strategists said.


    "He handles matters smoothly and appropriately, possesses extraordinary wisdom, judges the situation urately, and makes decisive decisions. Calling him a mere talent is an understatement. To lead a weak group and maneuver through the Grand Universe Empire''s eight million soldiers, to attract divine wrath with an examination essay, to conquer the impregnable Wushuang City with just two thousand casualties��any other person would be incredibly proud of such achievements. But Zhong Shan treats them as if they are ordinary matters, as if nothing significant has happened. Such deep scheming is truly terrifying! This man is not a descendant of the Da Luo Dynasty''s ministers, which means his ambitions must be immense. His heaven-defying achievements pale inparison to his ambitions, far less, far less!" another strategist said.


    "Ambition?" The King of Great Xuan''s four eyes narrowed, revealing a slight smile.


    "Your Highness, precisely because of such ambition, there is no need to worry about him being swayed by Prince Zhengyi. Whatever Princess Qianyou can offer him, Your Highness can offer the same, even more. Unless, unless Princess Qianyou offers herself in marriage! That''s something Your Highness cannot give him," the first strategist said with augh, shaking his head.


    "Princess Qianyou? I can offer him the same. But this matter still requires some time. Lin''er is in the center of it all, and everything is still unclear," the King of Great Xuan contemted.


    In the heart of the dense, ancient forest, a group of strategists stood before the Marquis Qi Tian, each with a thoughtful furrow on their brow.


    "My Lord, in my humble opinion, Zhongshan is akin to the sharpest sword in your arsenal," began the foremost strategist. "However, this sword''s handle is short. While it is undoubtedly sharp, wielding it carries the risk of injury to oneself. Mastering its use requires not only skill but also considerable prowess."


    As he spoke, the other strategists nodded in agreement, their silence signaling their respect for his wisdom and high regard within the group.


    "I am a master of the sword myself!" The Great Marquis replied with a confident smile. His words hinted at his resolute intention to enlist Zhongshan''s services.


    "Since you have made your decision, Your Highness, then we should proceed with the n outlined in this letter," the leading strategist affirmed with a nod.


    "Fifteen Eternal Monoliths? Such bold demands! He ims that with these monoliths, he can capture twelve coastal cities within a year?" one of the strategists asked, his skepticism clear.


    "A year? For others, even a decade might not be enough to conquer a single city. And he speaks of taking twelve in just a year? Such audacity! How does he n to achieve this? With just fifteen Eternal Monoliths?" another strategist questioned, furrowing his brow.


    "Do you remember that a significant figure arrived in Wushuang City about six months ago?" the leading strategist asked.


    "The Western Poison Emperor? Does he intend to seek the Western Poison Emperor''s help?" the earlier strategist asked, his surprise evident.


    "Is he nning to use the Eternal Monoliths to bribe the Western Poison Emperor, to poison the entire poption of a city, and then use that as a threat to the remaining eleven cities?" another strategist suggested with a strange expression.


    "Poison an entire city? He wouldn''t dare. Only a madman like the Western Poison Emperor would resort to such measures, and even then, only out of revenge. Zhongshan would not stoop to such a level for conquest," the lead strategist responded calmly.


    "Your Highness, regardless of how Zhongshan intends to achieve it, if he can indeed capture twelve coastal cities within a year, then the fifteen Eternal Monoliths are a small price to pay," the first strategist spoke again.


    "Oh?" The Great Marquis looked at the first strategist, curious to hear more, despite having already made up his mind.


    "Firstly, the Eternal Monoliths do not belong to you, Your Highness. You are merely requesting them from the Emperor, so you won''t lose anything. Secondly, there are seventy-two Eternal Monoliths in total, and rather than letting them gather dust in the Ministry of Works, it would be better to use them to secure a significant victory for you. Additionally, the Emperor does not ce much value on these monoliths. Finally, if Zhongshan seeds, it will greatly alter the southern warfront in your favor. Even if he fails, you would have extended a gesture of goodwill to him, thus securing a handle on the sword," the chief strategist exined.


    "Excellent!" The Great Marquis smiled in satisfaction.


    Wushuang City, Central Hall of the City Lord''s Mansion


    In the grand central hall of the City Lord''s mansion, all eyes were on Zhongshan. The generals present were growing restless.


    "Commander, it has been eight months since the imperial edict arrived. When will we begin our campaign to capture the twelve coastal cities?" Shui Wuhen asked with a frown.


    "Is your army ready?" Zhongshan asked, turning his piercing gaze towards Shui Wuhen.


    "We have trimmed the ranks and recruited new soldiers. Now we have an army of five hundred thousand, well-trained and prepared," Shui Wuhen replied after a moment''s thought.


    "Five hundred thousand? Each city has a defending force of one million. How do you n toy siege with just five hundred thousand? Continue training your troops," Zhongshan said, shaking his head.


    "Yes, sir," Shui Wuhen responded, a hint of resignation in his voice.


    "Commander, the other corps have already begun their attacks. Are we just going to remain idle?" Zhao Chuan interjected with a frown.


    "The other corps? Tell me, how have they fared so far?" Zhongshan asked.


    "In the past eight months, the forces targeting the Da Yu Empire have captured four of their cities. Qi Tian Marquis recently took his second city and is now consolidating his forces," Zhao Chuan exined.


    "Oh? Qi Tian Marquis has already captured two cities? Impressive. How heavy were his losses?" Zhongshan inquired.


    "He suffered greatly. It will take at least six months of recovery before he can resume his campaigns," Zhao Chuan replied.


    "Such heavy losses? Hm, and what about those targeting the Da Guang Dynasty?" Zhongshan asked.


    "They''re facing difficulties. General Xiao Wang of the Da Guang Dynasty is a formidable opponent. Shui Jing managed to take two cities, Jin Chan took one, and othermanders captured three cities. However, shortly after, Xiao Wang recaptured two cities and breached two of our own Da Luo Dynasty''s cities," Zhao Chuan exined.


    "So, they captured six cities but lost four?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yes," Zhao Chuan confirmed.


    ncing at Zhao Chuan, Zhongshan smiled faintly. "Rest assured, I''m waiting for something. Once it arrives, we will resume our campaigns. For now, intensify the training. The strength of our army lies in its soldiers."


    "Yes!" The generals could only nod with resignation.


    "Also, have you gathered all the information on themanders defending the twelve cities of Linqi?" Zhongshan turned to Zhao Chuan.


    "We''ve collected all that we can. For those we haven''t, we''re still sending people out," Zhao Chuan replied.


    "Good, elerate the collection process. Our army remains still for now, but once it moves, it will be unstoppable!" Zhongshan reassured the generals.


    "Yes!" The generals nodded in agreement��


    In the following days, the generals obediently continued training their troops while Zhongshan meticulously reviewed the gathered information. One day, during a break, Zhongshan called for Nian Youyou.


    "What''s this? Just remembering me now?" Nian Youyou pouted with an expression of mock hurt, her big watery eyes fixed on Zhongshan, resembling a resentful maiden.


    Zhongshan rubbed his temples, feeling a headacheing on. "Come, I''ll show you something."


    Nian Youyou looked puzzled. Why was Zhongshan suddenly seeking her out? What did he want to show her?


    Before long, Zhongshan brought Nian Youyou to the square in front of the City Lord''s mansion.


    Upon arriving at the square, Nian Youyou''s eyes widened in surprise.


    Because, spread across the square, were all kinds of flowers in full bloom. Their myriad colors filled every corner.


    They all shared amon name��roses!

 Chapter 300: Zhongshan鈥檚 Declarations of Love

    <h4>Chapter 300: Zhongshan''s Derations of Love</h4>


    In the midst of a square filled with roses, their fragrances mingling in a riot of colors, the scene seemed almost surreal. The impact of this floral disy was profound, especially for women. Even Nian Youyou, with her undisclosed secrets regarding Zhongshan, felt her heart stirred deeply upon seeing this spectacle.


    Gazing at the countless roses, a fleeting sense of happiness washed over Nian Youyou, quickly reced by curiosity as she turned to Zhongshan and asked, "What is all this?"


    Zhongshan had been observing Nian Youyou''s expressions attentively, trying to decipher her thoughts. But how could he discern her intentions from just a few facial expressions?


    "I promised you initially, three thousand varieties of roses. Here, we have two thousand nine hundred and eighty. The remaining twenty are proving to be quite elusive, but I will procure them for you in due time," Zhongshan stated frankly.


    Realizing it was just a task being fulfilled, Nian Youyou couldn''t help but feel a bit annoyed, yet she pressed on, "And?"


    "And what?" Zhongshan furrowed his brow.


    "You also promised that for each rose you gave me, you would say a romantic phrase," Nian Youyou insisted persistently.


    Hearing Nian Youyou''s demand, Zhongshan broke out in a cold sweat!


    "I think it''s better if we forget about that!" Zhongshan said with a wry smile.


    "No, you must say it. You promised," Nian Youyou insisted.


    Looking at Nian Youyou, Zhongshan felt helpless. Who let him make such promises in the first ce?


    "You make my heart flutter, Youyou!" Zhongshan said.


    "Is that it?" Nian Youyou raised an eyebrow in amusement.


    Was that supposed to be the first romantic phrase?


    "Yes!" Zhongshan replied matter-of-factly.


    Speechless!


    Thankfully, there were still over two thousand more to go.


    "You really make my heart flutter, Youyou!" Zhongshan repeated.


    Nian Youyou was speechless. Just adding two words made it the second phrase already?


    ... "The farthest distance in the world is not life and death, but standing in front of you and you don''t know that I love you."


    Zhongshan had plenty of these kinds of lines, effortlessly reciting them, albeit in a dry tone, merely going through the motions.


    "Zhongshan!" Nian Youyou finally couldn''t hold back.


    "What''s wrong? We''re only at a thousand, and we''re not done yet?" Zhongshan replied.


    "Are you reading from a script? Can''t you inject some emotions?" Nian Youyou said, visibly irritated.


    Inject emotions? Zhongshan was speechless. We don''t have any emotions between us. You have no feelings for me, and I have no feelings for you. How can I inject emotions?


    "Fine!" Zhongshan nodded helplessly.


    "That day, when you left, my heart shattered..."


    "Holding your cold hand, I..."


    Zhongshan continued with his ''emotional'' derations.


    After listening for a while longer, Nian Youyou couldn''t take it anymore. "Zhongshan, you''re being too much."


    "What did I do now?" Zhongshan asked, feeling frustrated.


    "Are you reciting a eulogy? The way you''re speaking, it''s like I''m dead," Nian Youyou said, exasperated.


    "Alright, I''ll stop with the mncholy ones!" Zhongshan sighed.


    "Guan Guan Ju Jiu, on the river isle, elegant and gracefuldy, a match for a gentleman."


    "Tiao Xi Da Xi, at the city gate, a day not seen, feels like three months."


    ... Over two thousand phrasester, even with Zhongshan''s wealth of eloquence, reciting them without any genuine emotion was bing taxing. Eventually, he resorted to lines from ancient poems.


    Nian Youyou rolled her eyes beside him, wondering what mishmash of words he was reciting.


    With poetic lines exhausted, Zhongshan felt even more frustrated. He hadn''t reached two thousand nine hundred and eighty yet, and he had to continue.


    "How deep is my love for you? The moon represents my heart."


    "You are the wind, and I am the sand..."


    "Even in death, I will love..."


    ... Finally departing from poetic lines, Zhongshan attempted to sound more sincere, yet wondered what the moon had to do with love. He knew it was unrted, but it was sung that way, so he recited ordingly.


    ... "Let the deceased have an immortal name, let the living have an eternal love!"


    After uttering this final phrase, Zhongshan breathed a sigh of relief. This was more mentally taxing than leading troops into battle.


    Initially critical of Zhongshan''s haphazard derations, Nian Youyou gradually quieted down as she listened. Despite not understanding most of what Zhongshan was saying, she seemed to be strangely enjoying herself.


    "Alright, two thousand nine hundred and eighty phrases," Zhongshan breathed deeply.


    "Is that all?" Nian Youyou sounded somewhat reluctant.


    "Yes, that''s all," Zhongshan nodded.


    "Oh, I forgot to record this just now, could you say it again?" Nian Youyou stared at Zhongshan.


    Say it again? You might as well kill me!


    "Uh, my throat is about to give out. I need to go get some water. Please put away these flowers, I''m leaving!" Zhongshan, the Supreme Commander of the Eastern Hou, dashed off.


    Watching Zhongshan disappear in the blink of an eye, Nian Youyou stomped her foot in frustration.


    Two monthster, in the City Lord''s Mansion, Central Hall of Wushuang City.


    Standing before Zhongshan, Ada lowered a massive ice coffin from his hands, which Zhongshan promptly stored away.


    Taking a letter in hand, Zhongshan carefully read it, a faint smile gracing his face.


    "Sir, the princess said once she breaks through to the Emperor Realm, she wille immediately," Ada reported.


    "How is the princess now?" Zhongshan asked Ada.


    "The princess is well. ording to Ah Er, she spends every day watching the sedan chair," Ada replied.


    "Sedan chair?" Zhongshan was puzzled.


    "That''s the one used when the princess was poisoned, the one you had brought over," Ada exined.


    "I see," Zhongshan nodded thoughtfully.


    "You''ve worked hard during this period. Take some rest," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" Ada acknowledged and then withdrew.


    Zhongshan stared at the letter from Princess Qianyou, reading and rereading it:


    "This is the body of the third prince, preserved intact. He still maintains his appearance. Tiao has confirmed he is the ninth generation of the Haotian bloodline. Regarding the matter of the Immortal Monuments, I will cooperate with King Daxuan in bringing it to the Emperor''s attention.


    Also, I miss you!"


    A brief letter, detailing matters discussed with Zhongshan, concluded with the heartfelt "I miss you!", expressing all of Princess Qianyou''s sentiments in a single sentence. It didn''t need flowery words or excessive sentimentality; just those four words were enough to convey everything and make Zhongshan understand it all.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan carefully folded the letter and stowed it away.


    Ten dayster, a messenger arrived from King Daxuan.


    Standing before the City Lord''s Mansion in Wushuang City, the messenger made a gesture, and fifteen massive "Immortal Monuments" rose in the square.


    "Dongfang Hou, these were sent by King Daxuan himself, fifteen Immortal Monuments. East and West have already been delivered. The King hopes you won''t disappoint him," the messenger smiled.


    "Thank you to the King. Please convey to him that Zhongshan''s words will be fulfilled. Starting now, within a year, I will secure the twelve cities of Linhai," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "The King will be pleased to hear that. He holds you in high regard, Dongfang Hou. Take care of yourself," the messenger smiled faintly at Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan unexpectedly smiled back, "Please assure the King of mymitment."


    "Very well, I shall return to report to the King. May Dongfang Hou have a victorious start," the messenger bid farewell.


    "I''ll see you off," Zhongshan offered.


    "No need, farewell!" the messenger said before disappearing with a step.


    Watching the messenger vanish into the distance, Zhongshan smiled faintly, leaving those around him puzzled about what was on his mind.


    Turning to the fifteen Immortal Monuments, Zhongshan took a deep breath and stowed them away in his storage bracelet. Everything was prepared; now all that was needed was the right opportunity!


    "Marshal, shall we prepare to invite Emperor Xidu?" Shui Wuheng immediately asked curiously.


    "Train the troops well. When the timees, the specifics of the battle n will be known. We''ll set off soon. Be prepared," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" the generals responded.


    In the city where Marquis Qitian resided, within the central mansion.


    Marquis Qitian sat behind his desk, with generals standing on both sides.


    "It''s been over a year. Zhongshan still hasn''t moved yet?" Marquis Qitian frowned.


    "No, Marshal. Perhaps Zhongshan is all talk, and capturing Wushuang City was just luck," a senior general spoke up.


    "Luck? Hmph, continue to investigate," Marquis Qitian ordered.


    "Yes," the generals responded immediately.


    In the city where Master Shuijing resided, in the central square of the City Lord''s Mansion.


    Master Shuijing, though now amanding general, still wore schrly robes and held a feather fan, gazing at the floating inds below, with generals standing behind him.


    "Marshal, when shall we continue our siege?" a general asked.


    "The time is not yet ripe. This Xiao Wang is too formidable. We must wait a little longer," Master Shuijing said.


    "Yes!" the generals agreed.


    "Any movements from Wushuang City?" Master Shuijing inquired.


    "Not yet. General Zhongshan, after taking Wushuang City, has been solely focused on training his troops," a general reported.


    "Still training? Heh, it seems Zhongshan is confident now?" Master Shuijing smiled faintly.


    "Confident? Marshal, Zhongshan hasn''t made a move at all!" the general expressed disbelief.


    "Silence is golden. One burst of sound shakes the nine heavens. Zhongshan is that kind of person. Just wait; before long, you will understand," Master Shuijing took a deep breath.


    "Yes!" the generals nodded with a hint of skepticism.

 Chapter 301: Expedition

    <h4>Chapter 301: Expedition</h4>


    Two more months passed, and the generals were itching to move out, but Zhongshan remained focused as ever. He had set aside all administrative matters and devoted himself entirely to training and cultivation. Despite practicing at five times the usual speed, Zhongshan didn''t let up. He believed in relying on his own efforts.


    He had made an agreement with Emperor Xidu to meet after a year, and now that time hade. ording to the information gathered during this period, Emperor Xidu, despite his notorious reputation, was known to keep his promises.


    These past few days, Zhongshan had been coordinating everything meticulously.


    Sure enough, after a year, Emperor Xidu returned to the outskirts of Wushuang City. He hadn''t nned toe back but found himself drawn back, perhaps influenced by Zhongshan''s earlier words. Maybe Zhongshan had indeed found clues about the whereabouts of the Immortal Monuments.


    With conflicting feelings, Emperor Xidu gazed towards the southern city gate from afar. His mood brightened as he spotted a massive Immortal Monument outside the gate.


    An Immortal Monument? Emperor Xidu squinted, then widened his eyes in excitement. Indeed, outside the southern city gate stood a colossal Immortal Monument.


    Emperor Xidu swiftly made his way towards the southern gate. Upon arrival, he found a circle of soldiers guarding the Immortal Monument as if protecting a treasure.


    In an instant, Emperor Xidu approached, ignoring the soldiers, and grabbed the Immortal Monument. It was genuine, with unique material! Emperor Xidu examined it eagerly before stowing it away in his storage bracelet.


    This was the second one!


    "Elder, General Zhongshan has ordered us to wait here respectfully for you and escort you into the city," amander said.


    "No need. Where is Zhongshan now?" Emperor Xidu asked cheerfully.


    "General Zhongshan is currently at the City Lord''s Mansion," themander replied.


    With a step, Emperor Xidu entered the city and headed straight for the City Lord''s Mansion.


    Meanwhile, Zhongshan was in the midst of cultivation, gripping arge sword, his eyes focused as he shed towards the sky.


    <i>Whoosh~</i>


    A piercing sound echoed through the air.


    "Tian Tiao! Tear the Wind!" Zhongshan''s de soared towards the sky, unleashing a burst of lightning that collided with the Sky-Annihting Thunder Formation. The effect of this "Tear the Wind" technique was peculiar. Although its power was insufficient, it split the surroundings into halves and charged out. As arge amount of lightning pursued relentlessly, the thunder produced by the Thunder Refined Sunfire Gong also collided with the thunder of therge formation.


    <i>Boom~</i>


    The sky exploded like a brilliant flower blooming, the collision of two types of lightning forming the shape of a flower. It was incredible.


    Zhihuo, Ada, and Nian Youyou watched in astonishment. Zhongshan''s sh was incredibly precise, almost artistic. This disy left even the three peak-level experts in awe.


    While Zhongshan''s strike might have the power of a mid-Yuan Ying stage attack, they could handle it. However, the artistic nature of his strike was beyond anyone''s capability. Even though they were at the peak level, achieving such artistic perfection was unimaginable. The collision of two types of lightning, guided by him to form a flower shape? It was beyond belief.


    "Excellent swordsmanship!" Emperor Xidu arrived just in time to witness the spectacle, his eyes full of admiration.


    Zhongshan turned to look. Ada, Zhihuo, and Nian Youyou also arrived from different directions.


    "Elder!" Zhongshan greeted with a smile.


    "You''ve got quite a few protectors," Emperor Xidu remarked.


    "These three are my friends: Ada, Zhihuo, and Nian Youyou," Zhongshan introduced.


    Emperor Xidu nced at the three. He knew of them, though they belonged to different factions. Despite their strength being slightly below his own, all three were experts at the peak level of Emperor Realm. It was surprising that Zhongshan had managed to gather them together.


    "The Immortal Monument at the southern city gate, did you ce it there?" Emperor Xidu asked.


    "Yes, Elder, please follow me," Zhongshan pointed to a nearby pavilion.


    Frowning slightly, Emperor Xidu nodded.


    At the pavilion, servants had already prepared tea and quickly withdrew upon their arrival. Ada and the others had been instructed by Zhongshan beforehand and remained outside. Only Nian Youyou stared curiously at Emperor Xidu.


    As they sat down, Ada swiftly set up a g formation as per Zhongshan''s instructions to iste their conversation from outside ears.


    Observing Ada''s actions, Emperor Xidu was puzzled but not worried. He could easily break the g formation with a wave of his hand, and besides, Zhongshan was present.


    "Boy, do you have something to say to me?" Emperor Xidu turned to Zhongshan.


    "Elder, you were searching for ten Immortal Monuments. How is your search going?" Zhongshan inquired.


    "It''s not easy," Emperor Xidu sighed and shook his head.


    "Not long ago, I met your disciple, Haomeili," Zhongshan continued.


    "Oh?" Emperor Xidu''s eyes narrowed.


    Zhongshan proceeded to recount the entire incident from the beginning.


    Listening intently, Emperor Xidu''s eyes filled with gratitude. "Although the girl hasn''t agreed to be my disciple yet, I''ll take her goodwill on her behalf."


    "No worries. Since Elder and I get along well, I couldn''t just stand by. However, it''s been over eight years now. Has Elder still not taken Haomeili as your disciple?" Zhongshan asked curiously.


    "The girl has been spoiled. She''s not bad to an old man like me. To be my disciple, she also needs me to find ten Immortal Monuments. So far, I''ve only found two, still a long way to go," Emperor Xidu chuckled.


    Then, Emperor Xidu''s expression turned serious as he looked at Zhongshan. "Boy, what mischief are you up to again?"


    "Elder, you misunderstand. When have I ever shown disrespect to you?" Zhongshan hurriedly replied, a bead of sweat forming on his forehead.


    "This old poison is quite suspicious," Zhongshan thought to himself.


    "Speak up. What''s on your mind? Considering you helped me find the second Immortal Monument, within the Emperor Realm, who do you want dead? I can help you with that," Emperor Xidu offered straightforwardly.


    Zhongshan looked at Emperor Xidu, momentarily speechless.


    "Alright, Elder, I''ll be honest with you. I want to meet your disciple, Haomeili," Zhongshan said seriously.


    "Why?" Emperor Xidu''s eyes narrowed.


    "Elder is worried I might harm Haomeili?" Zhongshan smiled.


    "Just you? You''re not qualified," Emperor Xidu replied bluntly.


    "That''s fine then. I just want to meet Haomeili. There are some important matters I need her help with," Zhongshan said.


    "What kind of matters?" Emperor Xidu asked.


    "To conquer twelve cities," Zhongshan stated directly.


    "No, the girl isn''t my disciple yet. She definitely won''t agree," Emperor Xidu shook his head.


    "What if Shangruo Haomeili bes your disciple?" Zhongshan smiled.


    "Hmm?" Emperor Xidu raised an eyebrow, looking at Zhongshan.


    "I can bring another eight Immortal Monuments for Elder. I just need Elder to arrange a meeting between me and Haomeili. Whether things work out or not, it''s up to fate," Zhongshan grinned.


    "You can really find them?" Emperor Xidu squinted at Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan waved his hand towards the pavilion''s entrance, and Ada promptly flipped his hand. Suddenly, eight Immortal Monuments appeared on the square outside.


    Emperor Xidu stood up abruptly, eyes wide as he stared outside.


    "I''ve been searching hard for so long without sess, how did this kid suddenly find so many?" Emperor Xidu muttered to himself, his expression filled with astonishment and suspicion.


    "Elder, these eight are for you. Let Haomeili know that I have many more, but I''d like to give them to her in person," Zhongshan said confidently.


    "Many more? Are you kidding me?" Emperor Xidu wanted to refute, but seeing Zhongshan produce so many, he had to reconsider.


    "What do you think, Elder?" Zhongshan smiled.


    After scrutinizing Zhongshan for a moment, Emperor Xidu took a deep breath. "When the timees to meet, I''ll be present."


    "Naturally!" Zhongshan affirmed, relieved inwardly.


    Two months had passed since Zhongshan met Emperor Xidu. A month ago, under Emperor Xidu''s arrangements, Zhongshan had met Shangruo Haomeili. Now, four months had passed since Zhongshan made the promise to Emperor Xidu.


    On this day, beneath the city lord''s mansion in Wushuang City.


    The army stood in perfect formation: 250,000 infantry led by Shui Wuheng, 50,000 wolf cavalry led by Liu Wushuang, and the First Battalion of the Daxuan Army with 200,000 soldiers.


    Zhongshan stood on the floating ind, gazing at this vast army of 500,000 soldiers. He took a deep breath.


    "It''s been a year and a half since we reimed Wushuang City. Armies from all directions are attacking Da Yu and Da Guang, but our army has yet to move. Do you all know why?" Zhongshan shouted down to the troops below.


    The soldiers patiently awaited Zhongshan''s continuation.


    "I need to train the most elite troops and win the most victorious battles. Now, the troops are well-trained, and the time hase. Heaven has given us the opportunity to reim the twelve cities of Linhai. Are we going to take them?" Zhongshan called out.


    "We will take them! We will take them! We will take them!" the soldiers roared in unison.


    "Good! The chance to make achievements has arrived. Soldiers, follow me to conquer the twelve cities of Linhai!" Zhongshan dered loudly.


    "Yes!" the soldiers responded.


    Immediately, Zhihuo transformed into a massive wolf, carrying Zhongshan at the forefront, heading towards the outskirts of the city.


    The army followed in disciplined steps. With that, the massive army surged out of the city, signaling the start of Zhongshan''s campaign.


    On the city tower, the remaining 250,000 troops led by Shui Wuheng watched, each one filled with envy. They could only stay behind to defend the city since they had not passed the previous assessment.


    Eight months remained. Within these eight months, Zhongshan aimed to fulfill his promise of capturing the twelve formidable cities of Linhai with his 500,000-strong army, facing the protection of tens of millions of defenders in total.


    Many believed it was a joke, but for Zhongshan, it marked the beginning of a legendary tale.

 Chapter 302: Drumming Up War

    <h4>Chapter 302: Drumming Up War</h4>


    The army marched for two months! Half a year remained until the deadline Zhongshan had set.


    In Daxuan City, within the lord''s mansion, in King Daxuan''s study.


    All the strategists gathered, observing the letter Zhongshan had sent.


    "Two months ago, Zhongshan mobilized his troops," King Daxuan began.


    "Yes, Zhongshan is grateful to Your Majesty. The First Battalion of the Daxuan Army has been brought along to join the battle," one strategist remarked.


    "Grateful? Not necessarily. What if Zhongshan''s actions were deliberate? You know what kind of person Zhongshan is��meticulous and thorough. Perhaps he''s trying to deceive us," another strategist spected.


    "No matter what Zhongshan''s intentions are, he is aligning himself with us. Although he recently recruited soldiers to guard Wushuang City, he brought along the First Battalion to the battlefield," the previous strategist added.


    At this moment, the chief strategist spoke up, "The crucial point is that this time, he only has 500,000 troops, yet he urged Your Majesty to swiftly prepare civilian officials to manage the twelve cities."


    Hearing this, all the strategists frowned.


    "Your Majesty, Zhongshan is really ambitious. 500,000 against 10 million? Moreover, these are the formidable Twelve Cities, and within half a year? Even if he just makes a circuit, it would take one or two months. Isn''t he deceiving us?" the earlier skeptic questioned.


    "To deceive or not, it depends on how Your Majesty sees it. How will Your Majesty proceed? Will you send civilian officials?" the chief strategist asked King Daxuan.


    With a slight smile, King Daxuan replied, "Yes, we will send them. Why wouldn''t we?"


    In Qitian Hou''s city, within the lord''s mansion.


    "Marshal, our troops are almost ready. Should we continue to attack the next city?" a general asked.


    "Good, set out tomorrow," Qitian Hou replied.


    "Yes!" the generals acknowledged.


    "Marshal, two months ago, General Zhongshan already began marching to attack the cities," another general reported.


    "He''s targeting the Twelve Cities of Linhai, the formidable Twelve Cities. How many troops did he bring?" Qitian Hou asked.


    "500,000!" the general replied.


    "500,000? Only 500,000?" Qitian Hou frowned.


    "Yes, and there''s a rumor circting in Wushuang City," the general continued.


    "What rumor?" Qitian Hou frowned.


    "General Zhongshan boasted during the oath ceremony that he would capture the Twelve Cities of Linhai this time," the general said.


    "Such audacity!" Qitian Hou furrowed his brows.


    "Yeah, is Zhongshan out of his mind?" the general chuckled.


    "Send someone to investigate further about the Twelve Cities of Linhai," Qitian Hou ordered.


    "Yes!" the general acknowledged.


    In the city where Shuijing was stationed, within the lord''s mansion.


    Master Shuijing shook his feather fan as he listened to the generals'' reports.


    "Two months ago, General Zhongshan set out with 500,000 troops to prepare for the attack on the Twelve Cities of Linhai," a general reported.


    Master Shuijing took a deep breath, closing his eyes slightly before saying, "He has finally started his campaign!"


    "Marshal, is General Zhongshan being reckless? With 500,000 troops, he ns to attack the formidable Twelve Cities, each guarded by at least a million soldiers, meaning there are at least ten million defenders, not to mention the natural defenses. Is he just delivering himself to them?" a general frowned.


    "Delivering himself? Haha, back then, with just a few people, he toyed with the 8 million soldiers of Dayu Army. Now, leading 500,000 troops, how could he be delivering himself?" Master Shuijing shook his fan and said.


    "However...," the general appeared somewhat skeptical.


    "Alright, watch closely. I''m not mistaken. He has taken down one city after another." Mr. Shuijing asserted.


    "Yes!" The general responded, his expression confused.


    Among the Twelve Cities of Linhai, counting from Unrivaled City, it was the territory of the third city.


    Zhongshan led five hundred thousand troops, advancing mightily. They bypassed the first city, bypassed the second city, and headed directly towards the third, because Zhongshan believed this third city was the best target for conquest.


    This third city was called ''Heavenfire City''. Among the Twelve Cities of Linhai, its defensive strength was moderate. But to take it was no easy task.


    Zhongshan appeared in the distant east gate, standing on the highest peak. The me of battle returned to his eyes, with the heads of various factions standing beside him.


    "Let everyone climb the mountain. Prepare the war drums!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" The generals quickly ryed themand, though the army was deeply perplexed, they obediently climbed the surrounding peaks. The wolves followed suit.


    Behind Zhongshan stood Nie Youyou, A Da, Zhihuo, Zhao Chuan, Shui Wuheng, and Liu Wushuang.


    "Commander, are we not attacking the city?" Shui Wuheng frowned and asked.


    "I''m waiting for reinforcements!" Zhongshan smiled.


    Reinforcements? The generals exchanged looks, puzzled. They didn''t understand what reinforcements Zhongshan was waiting for. Were there really reinforcements?


    Just then, a dark spot flew in from the distance and arrived in an instant. It was Emperor Xidu.


    "Elder!" Zhongshan smiled.


    But Emperor Xidu had a stern face. He nced around and then at Zhongshan. "Kid, you''re really lucky."


    "Elder is jesting." Zhongshan shook his head.


    "I''m not joking. No one has dared to negotiate with Mei Li before, you''re the first, and there''s nothing to it." Emperor Xidu shook his head.


    "Hehe, Elder, do you know why?" Zhongshan whispered to Emperor Xidu.


    "Why?" Emperor Xidu was very curious.


    "Although negotiating with Mei Li, Zhongshan deeply respects Mei Li in his heart." Zhongshan whispered to Emperor Xidu.


    Respect? Emperor Xidu''s eyes nearly gouged out Zhongshan. The way he spoke that day, respect? Go to hell, respect?


    "Elder''s wish hase true, and it should be a happy thing." Zhongshan smiled.


    "Well, I suppose so. Mei Li is finally my disciple." Emperor Xidu said.


    "How much longer until they arrive?" Zhongshan asked.


    "At most an hour. Kid, your move is quite poisonous!" Emperor Xidu said to Zhongshan.


    "Poisonous? How can it be more poisonous than Elder''s?" Zhongshan shook his head modestly.


    "This poison is different!" Emperor Xidu shook his head.


    "Beat the war drums!" Zhongshan suddenly ordered.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuheng responded.


    In Shui Wuheng''s hands, a small red g was raised.


    At the summit of the surrounding mountains, massive war drums were quickly arranged, totaling a thousand.


    In the instant the g fell from Shui Wuheng''s hand.


    "Dong~~~~~"


    Three thousand war drums thundered in unison, a single supetive roar that shook the heavens. The sound dispersed the clouds in the sky. From where the army stood, it sent out a massive shockwave in all directions.


    When the five hundred thousand troops suddenly appeared in the distance east of the city, a general on the city''s tower spotted them.


    "Damn it, the first battle hase to our Heavenfire City," the general cursed angrily.


    "So what if they''re here? There are only five hundred thousand of them. Even if they have cavalry, what good would it do? This isn''t a in battlefield, it''s a fortified city," another general beside him remarked.


    "No, I''ll go report to the city lord. You guys watch closely. Don''t let them breach the defenses, or we''ll all be living with our heads between our legs in the future," the general said.


    "Yes!" The othermanders chuckled.


    When the general rushed to the city lord''s residence, a grand feast was underway inside. There was music and dance, with many pce maidens performing graceful dances. The city lord sat at the head, with numerous guests enthralled and watching.


    "City Lord, the troops of the Great Luo Empire are attacking," the general immediately announced upon entering the grand hall.


    "Wait until the dance is over to talk... What? The troops of the Great Luo Empire are attacking?" The initial impatience of the Heavenfire City Lord turned to a sudden realization. He promptly overturned the wine cup in his hand.


    The grand hall erupted into chaos. The guests exchanged worried looks.


    "Quickly, quickly, stop the dance and go," the Heavenfire City Lord shouted urgently.


    The pce maidens swiftly retreated.


    "City Lord, there''s no need to worry too much. The Great Luo Empire''s troops this time number only five hundred thousand, nothing to fear," the general reassured.


    "What? Five, five hundred thousand?" The Heavenfire City Lord was slightly taken aback. Just this much?


    "Absolutely true!" the general smiled.


    Upon hearing this, the Heavenfire City Lord felt somewhat relieved.


    "Who is theirmander?" the Heavenfire City Lord asked after a moment.


    "Themander''s g bears the character ''Zhong''," the general replied.


    "Zhong? Zhongshan?" The Heavenfire City Lord suddenly eximed.


    "City Lord, what''s wrong?" the general asked in confusion.


    "Quick, quick, quick, highest alert! Take me to see!" The Heavenfire City Lord panicked.


    "City Lord, Zhongshan is just a person after all," the general puzzled.


    "What do you know? Last time, he evaded an army of eight million from Dayu and defeated the garrison of 1.5 million from Wuan. The King of Julu specifically warned to be cautious of Zhongshan. Now that Zhongshan is here, we must be on the highest alert," the Heavenfire City Lord said.


    As soon as the Heavenfire City Lord finished speaking...


    "Dong~~~~~"


    The sound of war drums echoed into the city, reaching directly to the City Lord''s residence.


    "Dong~~~~~ Dong Dong~~~~~ Dong~~~~~"


    A continuous series of drum beats rang out, ear-splitting and heart-pounding. For a moment, the entire Heavenfire City fell silent. The city gates were tightly closed, and all heads turned eastward, outside the city.


    The relentless beating of the war drums seemed to strike directly at the hearts of everyone, weighing heavily on them.


    "Go!" The Heavenfire City Lord immediately dismissed everyone and the general.


    "Yes!" The general responded promptly.


    Before long, the Heavenfire City Lord arrived at the eastern city tower.


    From a far distance, the Heavenfire City Lord gazed at the Zhongshan army on the summit of the distant mountains.


    "Should we summon troops from the other city towers?" the general suggested.


    "No,st time when Zhongshan took Unrivaled City, it was because of this mistake. All four city gates must be manned, and they must support each other. Keep watch outside the city in all directions for any suspicious figures. Be on high alert," the Heavenfire City Lord instructed.


    "Yes!" The general responded immediately.

 Chapter 303: Flooding of Heavenfire City

    <h4>Chapter 303: Flooding of Heavenfire City</h4>


    From the summit of a distant mountain peak, Zhongshan spotted a figure in a splendid robe on the eastern city tower. Comparing the collected information, he confirmed it was the City Lord of Heavenfire City.


    With a slight smile, Zhongshan waved his hand.


    "Stop~~~~~~~~~~" shouted Shui Wuheng.


    "Dong~~~~~~~~~~" The drummers struck the final earth-shaking drumbeat.


    "City Lord of Heavenfire City~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Zhongshan shouted with a smile.


    "Zhongshan, why have you chosen my Heavenfire City?" the City Lord of Heavenfire City shouted.


    "The Emperor has decreed that any lower empire challenging the Great Yu Dynasty shall face the ultimate wrath. The imperial troops are ordered to march south. Surrendering cities will be forgiven, and their officials promoted without demotion. Those who resist will be punished for major rebellion. City Lord of Heavenfire, open the city gates promptly. Surrendering now will be forgiven," Zhongshan dered loudly.


    "Hahaha, forgiven for past actions? What crime have Imitted? Instead, Zhongshan, you invade the territory of the Great Yu Empire and attack my Heavenfire City. From today onward, I and the people of Heavenfire City will fight for our lives," the City Lord of Heavenfire City dered with righteousness.


    "Ridiculous! Heavenfire City will soon be under the control of the Great Luo Dynasty. The people of Heavenfire City will be citizens of the Great Luo Dynasty. We will not harm our own citizens. There''s no question of fighting for survival," Zhongshan retorted sharply.


    "Young brat, Heavenfire City is a fortress! Just five hundred thousand troops think they can breach it? You''re daydreaming!" the City Lord of Heavenfire City was incensed by Zhongshan''s words.


    "Generals on the city tower, listen up! Now is your chance to make a name for yourselves. Capture the City Lord of Heavenfire City and receive one million spirit stones as reward, along with a three-rank promotion. Whoever opens the city gates will be rewarded with one million spirit stones and a three-rank promotion," Zhongshan proimed loudly.


    Watching Zhongshan from afar, the City Lord of Heavenfire City was both angry and frustrated. Zhongshan''s cunning was impressive; failing to buy him over, he resorted to trying to win over his own surrounding officers?


    However, the officers were all elite troops, and only a few were slightly swayed, maintaining a stern demeanor.


    "Hahaha, Zhongshan, is this the best scheme you cane up with?" the City Lord of Heavenfire Cityughed heartily.


    Yet, Zhongshan remained unfazed. Everything was going ording to n. He smiled faintly as he looked towards Heavenfire City in the distance.


    "Generals, listen up! What I just said remains valid until Heavenfire City falls!" Zhongshan shouted again.


    "Fall? You think you can make me fall?" The City Lord of Heavenfire City sneered. Zhongshan was too arrogant.


    "Beat the war drums!" Zhongshan waved his hand.


    "Dong~~~~~ Dong Dong~~~~~ Dong~~~~~" The war drums thundered again, shaking the heavens.


    "City Lord, are they really going to attack the city?" a general furrowed his brows and asked.


    The City Lord also frowned deeply at this moment, unable to see through the situation. He couldn''t figure it out, really couldn''t!


    "Stay vignt!" the City Lord said with a frown.


    "Yes!" the generals responded.


    "Zhongshan, is this how you n to attack the city?" Nie Youyou muttered beside him strangely. "Just by beating drums?"


    Zhongshan looked up at the sky and said, "It''s going to rain."


    "Rain?" Nie Youyou raised her head in surprise. Rain? There wasn''t a cloud in sight. How could it rain?


    "Rumble~~~~~ Rumble Rumble~~~~~ Rumble~~~~~" Suddenly, a tremendous roar of rushing water came from behind everyone. The soldiers turned their heads to look, and their eyes widened in disbelief.


    A tsunami? A towering tsunami?


    How could there be a tsunami here? Those enormous waves, how could they be so high?


    "Mountains and rivers, infinite distant mountains and rivers, how could there be a tsunami? Are we seeing things?" The soldiers rubbed their eyes in disbelief, yet indeed, it was a massive tsunami. A real one.


    "Has the continent sunk? Where is all this seawatering from?" Wave upon wave surged higher and higher from the distant horizon towards Zhongshan''s direction, increasing in speed and volume.


    "Ao~~~~~~~~~~"


    Above the foremost wave, a gigantic golden dragon head suddenly rose up, emitting a mighty roar that conveyed the dragon''s excitement. Standing on the dragon head was a seventeen or eighteen-year-old girl, barefoot and gripping the dragon''s horns with an expression of exhration.


    "Ao~~~~~~~~~~"


    "Ao~~~~~~~~~~"


    "Ao~~~~~~~~~~"


    ... Countless dragon roars echoed through the vast waves, resounding ear-piercingly and profoundly shocking everyone.


    "Dragons? A horde of roaring dragons causing a flood?" On the eastern city tower,


    "What is that?" the City Lord of Heavenfire City suddenly eximed.


    "Water, lots of water, and dragons, City Lord, there are dragons too," a general exined.


    "Quick, from the other city gates, bring half of the troops over. We must be fast," the City Lord of Heavenfire City ordered urgently.


    "Yes!" The general swiftly turned and departed.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    The waves arrived too quickly. Massive waves instantly submerged the area around Zhongshan''s feet. Below the mountain peaks, torrents of water surged. Countless dragons stirred up waves and surged ferociously towards Heavenfire City, their momentum overwhelming.


    The enormous tsunami was unstoppable, submerging and washing away everything in its path. This was the power of the dragons.


    As long as there was water, they could wreak havoc.


    Especially by the seaside?


    Among the Twelve Cities by the Sea, if it were elsewhere, Zhongshan wouldn''t have been so confident. But here by the East Sea, wouldn''t there be as much water as needed?


    The dragons danced wildly, their furious waves reaching towards the sky.


    For the first city, Zhongshan didn''t want to expend too much effort. What Zhongshan sought was speed, strength, momentum, and intimidation.


    Zhongshan intended to use this first city to intimidate the remaining eleven cities, to let them know that what they called impregnable defenses were merely vulnerabilities waiting to be exploited. Once these vulnerabilities were found, the Twelve Cities by the Sea would be defenseless, and everything would vanish with a wave of his hand.


    Heavenfire? Today, I will flood Heavenfire City with water!


    The dragons danced wildly, their bodies stirring up the sea waters, swiftly rushing towards the city.


    "How could this be happening? Why are there so many dragons?" The City Lord of Heavenfire City showed a terrified expression.


    The previous calmness had long vanished.


    Dragons? What dragons? Long? Sea serpents? Why are there so many? Could it be that the Dragon Pce has colluded with the Great Luo Dynasty?


    "City Lord, what should we do?" a concerned general asked.


    "No worries. Heavenfire City is a fortress, just a few more dragons. We can still hold them off," the City Lord pretended to remain calm.


    "But what about all this water?" the general worriedly inquired.


    "Heavenfire City stands 1,200 meters high. This amount of water will at most inconvenience us for a few days. By then, our reinforcements will have arrived," the City Lord reassured immediately.


    "Yes!" The generals responded promptly.


    In the distance, atop the mountain where Zhongshan stood,


    Hao Meili looked at Zhongshan with a very unfriendly expression. Others had already been informed not to speak to the young girl who had arrivedter.


    "Zhongshan, what else do you intend to do?" Hao Meili asked, clearly displeased.


    "Firstly, I must thank the lovely Miss Hao Meili. Secondly, this seawater brought forth by the dragons, it is still connected to the East Sea, isn''t it?" Zhongshan replied with a smirk.


    "Yes! Why have I cursed you for three months, and yet nothing has happened to you?" Hao Meili said, clearly annoyed.


    Cursed for three months? Zhongshan broke out in a cold sweat on his forehead, thankful that he had never harbored any ill intentions towards her; otherwise, he would have been doomed.


    "Well, I''ve been immune since childhood due to being cursed so much," Zhongshan replied nonchntly.


    Everyone was at a loss for words.


    "Master, he bullied me. Can you poison him to death for me?" Hao Meili immediately turned to Poison King Xi.


    Poison King Xi was speechless, as were the others, and Zhongshan himself.


    "Poisoning me would prevent you from obtaining the treasures. For now, let''s focus on attacking the city. Let the dragons raise the water level around that city and flood Heavenfire City," Zhongshan quickly changed the subject.


    "Hmph!" Hao Meili looked furious.


    "Little Jin, let them flood, flood that city," Hao Meili called out to the golden dragon not far away.


    "Ao~~~~~~~~~~"


    The golden dragon roared loudly.


    "Ao~~~~~~~~~~"


    "Ao~~~~~~~~~~"


    ... The dragons echoed in chorus.


    Finally, the great waves crashed upon the base of Heavenfire City.


    With thebined efforts of the dragons, waves surged up along the walls. Wave after wave of tsunami water rose rapidly, surrounding the eastern gate in all directions within moments, and rapidly rising.


    "Fire! Fire! Fire~~~~~~~~~~" The City Lord of Heavenfire City shouted.


    Arrows of piercing qi shot towards the dragons, but those dragons under the city were the fiercest, evading the arrows. Their dragon scales were imprable, and in the water, the force of the arrows weakened, causing them to deflect easily.


    The dragons remained fearless against the piercing qi attacks.


    In the water, it was the domain of dragons. They surged and churned, the waves towering towards the sky.


    Some of the strongest dragons even lifted vast amounts of seawater, rushing towards the heavens, forming a continuous, dark mass of clouds that stretched from the sea below to the sky above, extending towards the Unparalleled City.


    An oblique dark cloud.


    The dense cloud roiled, and the fierce wind raged.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    After a super thunderous roar, the rain came. Under the dance of powerful dragons, the seawater transformed into pouring rain, cascading down wildly. The powerful dragons dared not enter the city due to the barrier above, but the downpour easily passed through the barrier.


    The seawater continued to rise at the eastern gate, while inside the city, a torrential downpour had begun.


    To the west of the city, the sun still shone brightly, while to the east, dark clouds covered the sky and water flowed downwards. The most crucial point was that Zhongshan had chosen Heavenfire City, which had a terrain sloping from east to west. Once the endless seawater submerged the east, it would inevitably rush even more forcefully towards the west.


    Water, massive amounts of water, continuously and orderly drawn by the dragons from the East Sea.

 Chapter 304: The Fall of the City

    <h4>Chapter 304: The Fall of the City</h4>


    Eight hourster, atop the eastern city wall of Tianhuo City.


    "City Lord, the water will reach the top of the wall in less than an hour. It''s already about to flood the ramparts," one of the generals said anxiously.


    "City Lord, the city is inundated everywhere. Some low-lying areas have already been flooded. Sixteen out of the seventy-twomercial districts are underwater. The citizens are terrified, many have moved to the hills. But the rain keeps pouring down; we can''t go on like this," another general said with concern.


    "This is probably the limit. The eastern wall of Tianhuo City is so long, it''s unlikely the water can rise any further. Even if those dragons have powerful magic, how much longer can they hold out? Keep shooting, continue the barrage!"manded the City Lord of Tianhuo.


    The City Lord was acutely aware of the grave situation, a crisis at its extreme. An hour at most remained. But knowing this, what could he do? Could he admit defeat? No. As the representative of the Dayu Empire, he would not surrender until thest moment!


    On the battlefield, situations change in an instant. Though the floodwaters threatened, who could say whether the tide would turn the next moment? Perhaps the dragons would stop following Zhong Shan''s orders, or maybe the water had reached its peak. There was even a chance reinforcements might arrive.


    The City Lord clenched his fists, waiting.


    It was a tragic reality: to have the fate of the battlefield decided by the enemy, a predicament that no general wished to face.


    The soldiers watched the rising water with growing anxiety. What should they do? The flood, a relentless deluge, once it overran the walls, would force them to retreat further into the city. The dragons would then breach the city, and Tianhuo would fall.


    An hourter, the water finally reached the top of the city wall. The anticipated "momentous change" did note to pass. The generals turned to the City Lord, their hearts filled with worry.


    In the distance, atop a mountain peak.


    "General! The floodwaters have forced the City Lord of Tianhuo to his limit. Should we stop now and pressure him to surrender again?" Shui Wuhen asked, frowning.


    "Stop?" Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "Yes, even if we can''t force the City Lord to surrender, we could disrupt their morale, perhaps evenpel their generals to seize him and surrender. Wouldn''t that be better? Besides, if the flood enters the city, it will undoubtedly bring disaster to the citizens. Stirring up public outrage would be detrimental to us taking over Tianhuo. It would be a mess," Shui Wuhen analyzed.


    "Haha, your reasoning is sound, but from a broader perspective, it''s unwise," Zhong Shan said.


    "Unwise?" Shui Wuhen was puzzled.


    "Indeed, unwise. You worry about the suffering of the people? The destructive force of this flood will bring some disaster, but it''s precisely this flood that will prevent a greater cmity," Zhong Shan asserted firmly.


    "Oh?" Shui Wuhen was curious.


    "First of all, if the flood doesn''t recede, its force will crush the enemy''s morale. Once their spirit is broken, it''s hard to rally them again. A weakened morale will persist, and when we take the city, there will be little resistance from the Dayu forces. As for the citizens, we aim to conquer twelve cities, not just this one. To secure them all, we need to set an example. The disaster here will ensure that the other cities do not suffer simrly. If five thousand people die here because of the flood, and your method might have resulted in only a thousand casualties, in the grand scheme of things, if we used your approach, the cumtive death toll across the twelve cities might be at least twelve thousand. However, by dealing decisively here, only five thousand will perish, which is more beneficial for our subsequent conquests. We need to seize the twelve coastal cities swiftly and decisively, rather than wasting time negotiating at each city," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen promptly responded.


    There was one thing Zhong Shan didn''t tell Shui Wuhen: on the battlefield, if you have absolute control and can dominate the situation, there''s no need to mercifully grant the enemy the opportunity to negotiate. Just control the battlefield and the war ording to your own strategy.


    Finally, the floodwaters reached the top of the city wall.


    "Ssh����������������������������������"


    A torrent of seawater cascaded from the city wall, a terrifying deluge that engulfed the ramparts in an instant.


    The defenders had no choice but to retreat into the city. Staying on the wall would mean facing certain doom, possibly even fighting the dragons in the water, which was unthinkable.


    "Heaven has forsaken our Tianhuo City!����������������������������������" The City Lord of Tianhuomented, having waited in vain for a "momentous change."


    Under the protection of his generals, he retreated into the city, while the city wall was swiftly submerged by the flood.


    Several flood dragons surged down the waterfall-like current into the city. The guards at the eastern gate had long since retreated, and the dragons quickly opened the gate.


    As soon as the gate was opened, the immense pressure of the water from outside burst into the city, a force so powerful that even two of the dragons were swept far away.


    Tianhuo City had fallen!


    "Let''s flush all this water into Tianhuo City. Once they surrender, they''ll open the western gate, and we can enter," Zhong Shan said to Hao Meili beside him.


    "You said it," Hao Meili retorted coldly.


    With a wave of her hand, Xiao Jin let out another dragon roar toward the sky.


    "Roar����������������������������������"


    The flood suddenly grew fiercer, crazily surging into Tianhuo City. This was because the dragons had stopped drawing water from the East Sea and were now concentrating all remaining water into the city.


    The torrent raged into Tianhuo City with unstoppable force.


    "General, if this flood continues, Tianhuo City will be in ruins," Liu Wushuang frowned as he spoke.


    "Wuhen, tell Wushuang what happened when Wushuang City fell. How long did it take to recover?" Zhong Shan asked, unfazed.


    "When General Zhong led us to capture Wushuang City, within two days, every building except the government offices was destroyed. In four months, new buildings sprang up, and the city was fully restored. Don''t worry about Tianhuo City; every significant building is fortified with formations. The main structures will remain intact, and the citizens are cultivators. Rebuilding the inner city will be easy," Shui Wuhen replied with a smile.


    After two more days, all the water had entered the city. As far as the eye could see, the umted water had mostly disappeared. The dragons had followed the flood into the city.


    At that moment, a scout flew in from a distance and reported, "General, the western gate is open!"


    "Good, enter the city!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    With great excitement, the fifty-thousand-strong army descended from the mountain and marched into Tianhuo City, a city that had fallen in just three days.


    As they stepped onto the ground, everyone felt a sense of unreality.


    Flying ahead, Zhong Shan addressed Shui Wuhen, Zhao Chuan, and Liu Wushuang: "Issue orders to be cautious in your deployment. After entering the city, expect pockets of resistance. For those who surrender, providefort and reassurance, disperse small groups, and reorganize them. For those who resist stubbornly, kill them!"


    "Yes!" The generals responded immediately.


    Two dayster, in the City Lord''s mansion of Tianhuo City:


    The generals were covered in dirt and grime, but their faces were alight with excitement.


    In just five days, the mighty Zhong Shan hadpletely captured and secured Tianhuo City. His prowess was truly extraordinary.


    "Shui Wuhen, how are the tasks I assigned youing along?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "We''ve looted all the valuables from the government offices in Tianhuo City," Shui Wuhen replied with enthusiasm.


    Zhong Shan''s expression darkened slightly. Nearby, Nian Youyou couldn''t help but stifle a giggle. Zhong Shan looked at Shui Wuhen in exasperation. Was his only concern the plunder like somemon bandit?


    "Oh, and all the other tasks you assigned arepleted too," Shui Wuhen quickly added.


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "We''ve pacified the citizens. Thanks to the ''three-year tax exemption'' decree from you, all the merchants have started rebuilding, and the residents, having receivedpensation, show no signs of resistance. As for the original defenders, besides a few who resisted and were executed, nearly half fled with the former City Lord of Tianhuo. The remaining forces, about forty thousand, have surrendered," Shui Wuhen reported.


    "Have the government positions been reorganized?" Zhong Shan asked further.


    "Yes, ording to your instructions, we''vepletely dissolved the old military units and restructured them. We''ve also promoted some of the previously underappreciated soldiers from the lower ranks to new leadership roles. In the Dayu Empire, they were mere soldiers, but under our Daluomand, they''ve be officers. They are very eager to work with us. But what should we do about the former surrendered generals?" Shui Wuhen asked, frowning.


    "The former generals will naturally apany us in capturing other cities. Wuhen, leave only twenty thousand Daluo troops here. Soon, the people from Great Xuan King will arrive. You can rest for a day, and then we will set out for our next target," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" the generals responded in unison.


    "Remember, keep the city gates closed during this time. No one is to open them except for the envoys from Great Xuan King," Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Understood!" Shui Wuhen affirmed once again.


    After a day''s rest, Zhong Shan led his army out of the city again, leaving behind fifteen thousand troops under Shui Wuhen''smand. He also took with him the former generals of Tianhuo City and some elite soldiers, maintaining the strength of his fifty-thousand-strong army.


    Zhong Shan was on the move again.


    Meanwhile, in a distant valley from Tianhuo City, inside a tent, the disheveled former City Lord of Tianhuo listened to a scout''s report.


    "City Lord, Zhong Shan has left. We can return and reim Tianhuo City now," a general suggested.


    "Reim? Zhong Shan captured Tianhuo City with fifty thousand troops. Do you think we can retake it with our fifty thousand troops? Haven''t you noticed that Zhong Shan has taken all our generals with him? How can we assault the city now? With the gates closed and a few archers on the walls, no one will be able to open them," the City Lord said, despondent.


    Yes, indeed. Once, they hadughed at Zhong Shan, but now attempting to retake the city would only invite ridicule. They didn''t have a cadre of dragons to summon the waters of the East Sea.


    "What should we do then?" the general asked anxiously.


    "I''ve already sent messengers to urgently inform the other coastal cities. As for us, we should leave and go back to apologize to the Great Deer King," the City Lord sighed.


    "Yes," the generals replied in a chorus of despair.

 Chapter 305: Capturing Twelve Cities

    <h4>Chapter 305: Capturing Twelve Cities</h4>


    Four months had passed, leaving only a month and a half before Zhong Shan''s promised deadline to Great Xuan King. Standing on a distant mountain peak, overlooking thest of the twelve coastal cities, Dacheng City, Zhong Shan wore a serene smile.


    "Commander, this is our final battle!" Shui Wuhen eximed with excitement at his side.


    "If all goes as expected, the city gates will open soon!" Zhong Shan replied, still smiling.


    "The city gates will open?" Shui Wuhen asked, puzzled.


    Squinting at the distant city, Zhong Shan said, "Yes, they will open. This city will be the easiest to capture among the twelve."


    "Huh?" The others looked at Zhong Shan with surprise, then turned their gaze back to the tightly closed gates of the distant city.


    Nian Youyou, instead of looking at the gates, watched Zhong Shan. She had followed him through all twelve cities, witnessing his rapid conquests. His methods of subduing the surrendering soldiers were truly remarkable��changing situations with a mere wave of his hand, transforming cloud into rain. It all seemed so surreal, yet it had happened right before her eyes.


    Watching Zhong Shan, Nian Youyou couldn''t help but sigh softly. Her eyes revealed a hint of a peculiar gleam, as if she had realized something of great importance.


    "Sound the war drums," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Boom��"


    "Boom-boom, boom, boom-boom��"


    In Dacheng City, within the City Lord''s mansion.


    "City Lord, what should we do? Zhong Shan is really attacking. How can he be so fast?" a general asked, his voice filled with worry.


    "Four and a half months, and he''s already captured eleven coastal cities. Four and a half months! And he has also controlled the forces of those eleven cities. How can Zhong Shan be this fast? It''s too fast!" The City Lord of Dacheng City looked bewildered.


    "City Lord, you must make a decision. If the dragons bring in the floodwaters, we will lose the city for sure," the general urged anxiously.


    "The reinforcements, where are the reinforcements?" the City Lord asked in panic.


    "The reinforcements from King Ju Lu will take at least another half month, but by then, the city will be gone," the general said, fear evident in his voice.


    "Yes, in half a month, everything will be gone. Zhong Shan started with fifty thousand soldiers, and even after capturing eleven cities, he still has fifty thousand. Not a single soldier is missing?" The City Lord of Dacheng City was filled with frustration.


    "Zhong Shan has subdued the generals of the eleven cities, leaving some troops behind in each city, and taking the rest to attack new cities," the general said angrily.


    "Heaven''s will! Heaven''s will!" The City Lord looked up and cried out in grief.


    "City Lord, what should we do now?"


    "Boom��"


    "Boom-boom, boom, boom-boom��"


    At that moment, the thunderous sound of war drums suddenly echoed from outside the city.


    "City Lord! It''s starting! The attack is starting!" the general eximed anxiously.


    With a resolute expression, the City Lord said, "We can''t hold the city, but I cannot betray the Dayu Empire. Issue an order for all soldiers to prepare to withdraw from Dacheng City with me. At the very least, we must preserve a million soldiers for the prince."


    "City Lord, are you saying we should flee?" The general was taken aback.


    "We can''t defend the city. If we stay, half of our army will end up being captured by Zhong Shan, just like in the other cities. It''s better for me to take all our troops and our treasures, preserving as much strength as possible for the Dayu Empire," the City Lord sighed.


    "Yes!" The general responded with a sorrowful sigh and quickly left to organize the troops.


    In the grand hall of the City Lord''s mansion, the City Lord of Dacheng City sat in bewilderment once again.


    The twelve coastal cities, known for their formidable natural defenses, had turned out to have such significant vulnerabilities. It seemed they were not worth holding onto after all. He thought to himself, "Once we move into the ind cities of Zhongzhou, let''s see how they bring the waters of the Eastern Sea there!"


    Outside, the war drums echoed, their sound shaking the heavens. The assembled generals waited patiently, their respect for Commander Zhong Shan evident. At this moment, there was no one among them who did not admire him. Each of them was filled with awe.


    Suddenly, a scout flew in from a distance and reported, "Reporting to the Commander! The City Lord of Dacheng City is leading his army to retreat through the west gate."


    "Hmm!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Commander, the City Lord of Dacheng City and his hundred thousand soldiers have been scared away by us?" Zhao Chuan asked in disbelief.


    A city with natural defenses and a hundred thousand soldiers turning and running just at the sight of Zhong Shan''s banner? This seemed unbelievable to Zhao Chuan and to the others as well. They were all astonished��had the enemy really abandoned the city?


    "Send another scout," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" The scout immediately flew off.


    "Zhong Shan, it looks like the City Lord of Dacheng City has really been frightened by your reputation!" Nian Youyou remarked with augh from the side.


    Zhong Shan smiled but did not respond, as if he was waiting for something.


    "Commander, now that the City Lord is fleeing with his troops, this is the perfect opportunity for us to pursue and annihte them. I request permission to lead the troops in pursuit," Shui Wuhen promptly said with respect.


    "Pursue them? There''s no need," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "But it''s such a good opportunity," Shui Wuhen protested, a bit reluctant to let it go.


    "Hehe, and how many soldiers do you have?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "Uh?" Shui Wuhen immediately fell silent.


    Yes, how many soldiers did he actually have? Most of his direct subordinates were stationed in the other eleven cities. The ones at hand were mainly the surrendered soldiers from Dayu. Leading thirty thousand surrendered Dayu soldiers to chase after a hundred thousand regr Dayu troops? That would be a recipe for disaster, potentially leading to defections and leaving him in a perilous situation.


    "Commander, the soldiers on the city walls are also beginning to withdraw," Liu Wushuang pointed towards the distant city walls where troops were gradually retreating.


    "Zhong Shan, did you know this was going to happen all along?" Nian Youyou asked, looking intently at Zhong Shan.


    "Uh? What makes you think that?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "The Western Poison Emperor hasn''t shown up yet. That beautiful Haomei hasn''te either. Without Haomei, the dragons of the Eastern Sea won''te. Did you anticipate this oue in advance?" Nian Youyou asked, staring at Zhong Shan.


    "Hehe, Youyou is indeed clever. Yes, the City Lord of Dacheng City is indecisive and cowardly. He acts like a loyal minister of the Dayu Empire, but with the pressure of my sessive victories over eleven cities, it''s natural for him to pack up and flee. As for yourment about the Western Poison Emperor noting, you''re mistaken," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Mistaken?" Nian Youyou looked around, still skeptical.


    "The Western Poison Emperor and Haomei are already waiting for us in the City Lord''s mansion of Dacheng City," Zhong Shan said with absolute certainty.


    "They''re already inside?" Nian Youyou was shocked.


    At that moment, from the distant east gate:


    "Boom��"


    The east gate slowly creaked open.


    A group of about a dozen people, dressed asmoners, opened the gate and walked outside. They stood before the gate and saluted in the manner of the Da Luo Celestial Dynasty.


    "This��? Was this arranged by you? When did you do this?" Nian Youyou asked, looking at the distant scene in surprise.


    "A year and a half ago," Zhong Shan replied.


    A year and a half ago? So Zhong Shan had nned ahead and secretly sent subordinates to infiltrate all the cities?


    Nian Youyou looked at Zhong Shan incredulously, and those around who heard Zhong Shan''s words also showed shocked expressions. So, the twelve cities of Linhai were already Zhong Shan''s a year and a half ago. It''s just that Zhong Shan didn''t take them earlier and instead took half a year to do so.


    Zhao Chuan swallowed hard. The Grand Xuan King had instructed him to watch Zhong Shan''s every move. If he were to report this situation to the Grand Xuan King, he wondered if the Grand Xuan King would believe it?


    "Enter the city!" Zhong Shan waved his hand.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" The soldiers roared in unison.


    They all marched towards thest city, Dachi City.


    Full of vigor and morale, the army was now in high spirits.


    Dachi City was taken without losing a single soldier, just by sounding the war drums. What a great victory this was!


    Even after entering the city, the soldiers felt a sense of unreality.


    Under the organization of Shui Wuhen, Zhao Chuan, and Liu Wushuang, they quickly upied the major fortresses of Dachi City.


    Then, they implemented Zhong Shan''s policy of pacifying the people.


    Dachi City became bustling with activity.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan, apanied by Nian Youyou, Ah Da, and Zhi Huo, arrived at the City Lord''s mansion.


    On the floating ind square of the City Lord''s mansion, Xiduhuang and Hao Meili were waiting.


    "Zhong Shan, you''ve finallye." Hao Meili immediately expressed her dissatisfaction.


    "Kid, you have quite the knack for leading troops in battle," Xiduhuang sighed, shaking his head.


    "Thanks to the senior, and to the lovely Miss Hao Meili," Zhong Shan replied promptly.


    "What about the goods?" Hao Meili immediately reached out her hand.


    With a flip of his hand, Zhong Shan took out the remaining six pieces of the Immortal Stele from his storage bracelet and erected them on the square.


    Looking at the six pieces of the Immortal Stele, Hao Meili smiled faintly, flipped her hand, and put them away.


    "Hmph, you know your ce," Hao Meili snorted.


    "At the same time, I have something else to give you!" Zhong Shan''s expression turned serious.


    "Oh? Are you so generous?" Hao Meili said skeptically.


    "This is something I had someone fetch at great expense. I think it''s quite suitable for you. Although you haven''t seen him, I believe you must have seen some projections or simr things he left for you. In terms of appearance, you should know��it''s him!" Zhong Shan said heavily.


    "Who?" Hao Meili frowned.


    With a flip of his hand, a crystal coffin appeared in front of Zhong Shan. Before everyone could take a closer look, Hao Meili suddenly widened her eyes, flipped her hand, and took it away, staring at Zhong Shan intently, taking several deep breaths.


    "How did you get this?" Hao Meili said coldly.


    "You can ask the coiled dragon that carried him back then," Zhong Shan said.


    "I''ve already cursed it to death!" Hao Meili said bluntly.


    "Sorry, I have my ways. I''m giving this to you now, which can be considered a reward for your efforts during this period," Zhong Shan said.


    "Old man, let''s go!" Hao Meili immediately called out to Xiduhuang, obviously in a very bad mood.


    Xiduhuang nced at Zhong Shan, flipped his hand, and a cloud quickly carried him and Hao Meili away.


    "Zhong Shan, what was that just now?" Nian Youyou asked in confusion.


    "Something that belongs to Hao Meili," Zhong Shan said.

 Chapter 306: Schemes from All Four Corners

    <h4>Chapter 306: Schemes from All Four Corners</h4>


    Five months. In just five months, he conquered the Twelve Seaside Cities of Linhai, and even managed to bring them all under efficient administration.


    This is simply unbelievable. Were these the once impregnable Twelve Seaside Cities?


    The Dragon n��many believed that it was the influence of the Dragon n that led to the swift conquest of Linhai''s Twelve Cities. However, there were a few dissenting voices. "Why don''t you try attacking them? If it''s just the Dragon n''s merit, go and ask them for help yourself!"


    Zhong Shan was destined to be remembered by countless people.


    Likewise, the news of Zhong Shan''s consecutive conquests spread like wildfire to all corners of the realm.


    In the city where Shui Jing resided, inside the City Lord''s mansion, Mr. Shui Jing sat quietly behind themander''s desk.


    He held a letter in his hand, a report from scouts detailing the siege and capture of the Twelve Seaside Cities.


    The generals stood in two rows, awaiting hismand.


    "Heh," Shui Jing suddenly let out a soft, contemtive chuckle.


    "Heh heh, heh heh heh," heughed, shaking his head slightly as if in disbelief.


    "General, what''s the matter?" one of themanders asked Mr. Shui Jing.


    Taking a deep breath, Shui Jing closed his eyes briefly and handed over the letter. Themander took it immediately and, upon reading it, his eyes widened in astonishment. "Impossible!"


    Anothermander grabbed the letter and read it, equally shocked. "Impossible!"


    The other generals, now curious, took turns reading the letter.


    The first sentence read: "Duke of the East, Zhong Shan, led an army of 500,000 and, within five months, conquered the Twelve Seaside Cities of Linhai in the Great Yu Kingdom!"


    Who could believe this? Although Mr. Shui Jing had prepared them for significant news, this speed was beyond anyone''s expectations. Five months? Only five months to defeat an army of millions?


    "General, this is impossible. That scout must be reporting false information. It''s inconceivable! Even if he managed to break through the cities, he would need to leave troops behind for defense. Five hundred thousand men wouldn''t be enough!" One of the generals shook his head in disbelief.


    Shui Jing opened his eyes slowly and sighed. "False information? The report includes detailed ounts of the sieges. How could it be false? Zhong Shan is truly formidable. Even though I already held him in high regard, I still underestimated him."


    "General, this is all due to the Dragon n''s help," one of the generals protested.


    "Ha ha, are you unconvinced?" Shui Jing asked with a knowing smile.


    "I am unconvinced. He merely got lucky with the Dragon n''s assistance," the general replied stubbornly.


    "It''s fine if you''re not convinced. The situation in the Great Yu Kingdom has be clear. With the fall of the Twelve Cities, the remaining cities will soon be captured in swift session. The Duke of the East will be reassigned to our front soon. Then you can see for yourself what kind of person he is," Shui Jing replied, still smiling.


    "He''ll be transferred here?" another general asked, doubtful.


    "His sesses have been too prominent. Not everyone wants to see such a powerful hero rise. He will likely be reassigned here before long," Shui Jing predicted.


    "Understood!" the generals nodded in unison.


    In another part of the Great Yu Kingdom, after months of intense fighting, the Duke of the Heavens sessfully captured another city.


    Sitting in the City Lord''s mansion, the Duke of the Heavens radiated confidence. The generals around him celebrated their victory.


    "General, this is a great triumph for us. This is the third city we''ve taken!" one of themanders eximed excitedly.


    "Yes, keep up the good work, everyone," the Duke of the Heavens replied with a smile.


    "With you leading us, General, we will continue to achieve great victories," another general ttered him.


    "Yes. I''ve been too busy with this campaign to ask��how is Zhong Shan faring?" the Duke of the Heavens inquired of the officer in charge of intelligence.


    "Duke of the East, Zhong Shan, has conquered the Twelve Seaside Cities of Linhai," the officer reported.


    "Eh? What did you say? Say it again!" The Duke of the Heavens, Qi Tianhou, raised an eyebrow, clearly puzzled by what he had just heard.


    "The Duke of the East, Zhong Shan, has consecutively conquered the Twelve Seaside Cities of Linhai!" the officer repeated.


    "What? Impossible! How long has it been? From the time west deployed troops, it''s only been a little over seven months. How could he possibly have taken twelve cities? He only has an army of 500,000, right?" Qi Tianhou expressed his disbelief.


    "In fact, he captured all twelve cities in just four and a half months. He had help from the Dragon n, which allowed him to take them so quickly," the officer exined.


    "Exin to me in detail how he managed to capture the cities," Qi Tianhou demanded, a cold glint appearing on his face.


    "Yes, sir!" The officer nodded promptly.


    After the officer finished his detailed ount, the generals were in an uproar!


    Flooding the Twelve Cities? This sounded more like a tall tale than a military report. The generals began to chatter among themselves, their voices ovepping in a cacophony of disbelief.


    Qi Tianhou, however, narrowed his eyes, deep in thought. Then, with a flick of his wrist, he took out a jade slip and swiftly recorded a message inside.


    "You, deliver this immediately to the Grand Yu City, directly to the Grand Emperor!" Qi Tianhou ordered the officer.


    "Yes, sir!" The officer responded without hesitation.


    In the Grand Yu Dynasty, within the Sky City, inside the imperial pce.


    Nn Piaoxue sat on the imperial throne, with only one person standing before him��Iron Blood.


    "Your Majesty, we can''t wait any longer. The Twelve Seaside Cities, we lost them in just four and a half months. Only four and a half months!" Iron Blood said, his face full of concern.


    "That was due to the Dragon n''s involvement. Once they move ind, the Dragon n''s ability to channel the East Sea will be useless," Nn Piaoxue replied, taking a deep breath.


    "But, Your Majesty, Zhong Shan''s current momentum is no longer just because of the Dragon n. Thest of the Twelve Seaside Cities fell without any trace of the Dragon n. Just the mere mention of Zhong Shan''s name made the city lord surrender without a fight. He wanted to preserve his strength, yes, but it was more out of fear. He didn''t even have the courage to face Zhong Shan head-on. Your Majesty, if this continues, the morale of the cities facing Zhong Shan will be so weakened that they won''t be able to defend themselves," Iron Blood said, his worry evident in his voice.


    A heavy silence fell in the grand hall. Nn Piaoxue drummed his fingers on the dragon throne, deep in thought.


    "What do you suggest?" Nn Piaoxue asked, looking at Iron Blood.


    "Please, Your Majesty, deploy the Grand Marshal, Yi Yan. If you deploy Yi Yan, he will undoubtedly reim the cities we have lost," Iron Blood said earnestly.


    "Yi Yan? Hmph!" Nn Piaoxue snorted, his face clouded with displeasure.


    "Your Majesty!" Iron Blood called out again, desperation in his voice.


    "That''s enough. You may leave now!" Nn Piaoxuemanded.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Iron Blood responded, a look of resignation on his face as he exited the grand hall.


    At the residence of Yi Yan.


    Yi Yan continued to feed the fish in his pond, while Iron Blood stood respectfully behind him, reporting on the current state of the war and the emperor''s stance.


    "Heh heh, Iron Blood, you should stop bringing this up with His Majesty," Yi Yan said, shaking his head.


    "Grand Marshal," Iron Blood called out, his voice filled with respect and urgency.


    "Heh heh, His Majesty has his reasons for not wanting to lose face. Besides, the situation in the north isn''t as dire as you make it out to be," Yi Yan replied with a knowing smile, shaking his head.


    "But Zhong Shan is too formidable. His momentum is unstoppable. The city lords around are all terrified of him," Iron Blood said, his worry evident.


    "Zhong Shan? I recognized his potential years ago, but his strengthes with its own drawbacks. He''s going to be reassigned soon," Yi Yan said, shaking his head once more.


    "Reassigned?" Iron Blood asked, incredulous.


    "How could he be transferred now? Where would they send him? His momentum is unstoppable; shouldn''t he continue leading the charge?" Iron Blood asked, his voice tinged with disbelief and frustration.


    "Heh heh, many people do not wish for him to continue his sesses within the Great Yu borders. His political adversaries don''t want him to bask in glory, and the Grand Emperor of the Great Xuan, who seeks to enlist and control Zhong Shan, doesn''t want his momentum to surpass his own influence. Therefore, Zhong Shan must be suppressed. However, with the Great Luo Emperor''s examination topic being ''War'' and the spirit of battle being so fervent, who would dare to go against the Emperor''s will? To suppress such a military leader? No one would dare. Thus, the only option is to transfer him��transfer him to the territory of the Great Guang Dynasty, to face the formidable Xiao Wang!" Yi Yan exined with certainty.


    "If Zhong Shan is transferred, it would be great if His Majesty could employ you, the Grand Marshal," Iron Blood remarked with a sigh.


    "Heh heh!" Yi Yan chuckled, shaking his head.


    "But, Grand Marshal, didn''t you say you wouldn''t concern yourself with worldly affairs anymore? Why are you still interested in the situation of the Great Yu Dynasty?" Iron Blood inquired.


    "I, cough... cough cough... cough cough cough..." Yi Yan was suddenly ovee with a fit of coughing.


    Iron Blood hurriedly stepped forward, patting Yi Yan''s back and using his power to help soothe Yi Yan''s body.


    After the coughing fit subsided, Yi Yan, with a bitter smile, said, "I am not concerned with the Great Yu Dynasty per se. I am grateful for thete emperor''s great kindness. Though I am dying, I do not wish to see His Majesty squander the legacy left by the former emperor."


    "Yes, sir!" Iron Blood nodded in understanding.


    In the Grand Xuan City, inside the City Lord''s mansion, in the study of the Grand Emperor of the Great Xuan.


    The Grand Emperor sat behind his desk, holding a dispatch of the triumphant news. Before him stood a group of strategists, each showing expressions of disbelief.


    "Four and a half months, and he captured the Twelve Seaside Cities of Linhai!" the Grand Emperor said with a smile of awe.


    "Fifteen immortal monuments, all for enlisting the Dragon n''s help. Not to mention how he managed to secure their assistance, but Zhong Shan truly kept his word and captured the Twelve Seaside Cities within a year," one strategistmented.


    "A genius!" another strategist eximed.


    "The Dragon n yed a crucial role," a dissenting strategist argued.


    "My lord, if Zhong Shan continues his conquests, he will have an immense advantage. The lord of thest of the Twelve Seaside Cities fled in fear at the mere mention of Zhong Shan''s name!" the previous strategist argued.


    "No, my lord, now is the time to curb his arrogance. We must not let him be so proud that he forgets your authority," another strategist advised.


    "Arrogance? Zhong Shan, from what I know, will not act hastily or arrogantly," the first strategist contended.


    "I''m not speaking of outward arrogance, nor of inner conceit. I''m talking about the ''momentum'' of his arrogance. Once this momentum escapes your control, how will you ever subdue him?" the dissenting strategist exined.


    At this point, the first strategist suddenly spoke up, "I agree. My lord, it''s time to put a check on Zhong Shan''s arrogance."


    When the first strategist spoke, the others fell silent, some nodding in agreement, others frowning in thought.


    The Grand Emperor looked at the first strategist and smiled. Though he had already made his decision, he still wanted to hear his strategists'' opinions. "Then how should we put him in check?"

 Chapter 307: Conditions of Mr. Corpse

    <h4>Chapter 307: Conditions of Mr. Corpse</h4>


    Heavenly Wolf Ind, Yin Moon Dynasty, within the imperial city.


    In the shadows of the imperial pce lies a dark and ominous hall. The air is thick with a chilling aura, and there are no guards stationed outside. Instead, lifeless zombies stand vigil in all four directions, their presence a testament to the hall''s status as a forbidden zone. Not even the crown prince dares to step within its bounds.


    This ce houses a mysterious figure, one whom the emperor has long sought to win over: Mr. Corpse.


    The hall''s doors are tightly shut, adorned with countless strange talismans. In fact, the walls, even the ceiling, are covered with these eerie symbols, their sinister glow adding to the foreboding atmosphere.


    Inside the hall, a figure in ck robes, his face as pale as death, sits cross-legged at the center. The floor beneath him resembles a ritual altar, pulsating with blood-red symbols that seem to dance in the dim light.


    From Mr. Corpse''s nostrils, two streams of white vapor rise, forming three delicate, smoky flowers above his head. He is clearly immersed in some mysterious, arcane practice.


    Suddenly, his eyes snap open, and the vapor quickly retracts, spiraling back into his nostrils. His brow furrows slightly as he narrows his eyes, focusing on the space before him.


    Beyond the blood-stained altar, a figure slowly emerges from the ground, as if the earth itself is giving birth to him. This figure, unlike the zombies surrounding the hall, is human��one whom Mr. Corpse recognizes. The man, dressed in a ck robe, rises eerily from the ground, leaving no trace or disturbance in the earth.


    "Earth escaping technique?" Mr. Corpse wondered silently.


    The man, fully surfaced, offers a slight smile.


    "Mr. Corpse, do you remember me?" the ck-robed man asks, his smile widening.


    "Great Zheng Dynasty, Zhong Shan!" Mr. Corpse rises lightly, a flicker of surprise crossing his usually stoic face.


    "The Great Zheng Dynasty? Heh, it seems I''m not the only one keeping tabs on Mr. Corpse. You''ve been keeping an eye on me as well!" Zhong Shan replies, nodding with a smile.


    Mr. Corpse squints, scrutinizing Zhong Shan. He is curious about Zhong Shan''s sudden appearance via the earth escaping technique, yet refrains from questioning it directly.


    "I have traveled a million miles to see you. Won''t you at least offer me some tea?" Zhong Shan says, making himselffortable in a guest chair.


    "Serve tea!" Mr. Corpse orders softly.


    A female zombie swiftly approaches, pouring tea for both Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse before retreating into the shadows.


    "Mr. Corpse, you''ve made remarkable progress over the years. The control you''ve achieved over this golden corpse is trulymendable," Zhong Shan remarks, taking a sip of tea.


    Mr. Corpse remains silent, simply observing Zhong Shan.


    "Heh, please don''t take offense. I''vee to express my gratitude. Without your timely aid on several asions, I would have long fallen victim to the Yin Moon Dynasty," Zhong Shan says sincerely.


    "That had nothing to do with me. It was merely your good fortune," Mr. Corpse replies, shaking his head.


    "Perhaps. Yet, had you given the slightest indication to the contrary, I would not be here today. I owe you a great debt, Mr. Corpse, and I will not forget it," Zhong Shan says earnestly.


    "Tell me, what brings you here today?" Mr. Corpse asks, his gaze steady and unwavering.


    "I wish to invite you to join the Great Zheng Dynasty," Zhong Shan states with genuine sincerity.


    "Heh, don''t you find that a bit amusing?" Mr. Corpse chuckles coldly, though he does not outright refuse.


    "From our few encounters, despite only glimpsing bits of your dialogue, I am certain that your allegiance to the Yin Moon Dynasty is merely a repayment of a debt. You are not trulymitted to them. Once your obligation is fulfilled, you will surely depart," Zhong Shan deres confidently.


    "Look at Zhongshan," Mr. Shi fell silent for a moment, then gave a cold smirk. "So what if you''re from the Great Gou Kingdom? Do you think that alone can make me risk my life?"


    "Hehe, no matter how impressive the Great Gou Kingdom appears on the surface, I''m sure Mr. Shi is well aware. As for whether it''s worth it for Mr. Shi to join us, I believe you started considering that from the third time we met," Zhongshan said confidently.


    Staring at Zhongshan, Mr. Shi narrowed his eyes. The phrase ''the third time Mr. Shi saw me'' was not ''the third time we met''. What did Zhongshan emphasize? It meant that after their second meeting, Zhongshan had observed him, and Mr. Shi hadn''t noticed?


    "The Nine Dragon Heaven Jade, in your hands? That incident beneath the Dayu Mountain, was that you?" Mr. Shi''s eyes glinted.


    "Yes, I took something from you, Mr. Shi. Please forgive me," Zhongshan nodded.


    "It turns out to be you. However, that wasn''t mine, but the Sixth Emperor''s of the Yin Yue Dynasty," Mr. Shi sighed deeply.


    "Mr. Shi has already seen it. The Wolf n acknowledges that although the Great Gou Kingdom''s current strength may not match the Yin Yue Dynasty''s, our potential exceeds theirs. In no time, we will achieve the position of an empire, using Tiang Ind as our foundation, conquering the Divine Continent, and creating an unprecedented legacy. Zhongshan solemnly invites Mr. Shi to join us," Zhongshan earnestly dered.


    "You know nothing of my origins, yet you invite me?" Mr. Shi stared at Zhongshan.


    "Hehe, and how much does Mr. Shi know about my origins? What kind of people were my ancestors?" Zhongshan chuckled. Zhongshan''s ancestors? Throughout the world, besides Zhongshan himself, no one knew. Because Zhongshan''s ancestors were enshrined within the earth.


    Indeed, upon hearing Zhongshan''s inquiry, Mr. Shi raised an eyebrow. Over the years, he had investigated Zhongshan. Not only Mr. Shi, but many others had investigated him as well, yet Zhongshan seemed to have emerged from nowhere.


    "I came here today because, on one hand, I knew Mr. Shi had always been studying me. On the other hand, I believe I now have the strength to invite Mr. Shi. That''s why I dared toe forward," Zhongshan affirmed confidently.


    "Indeed, I''ve been studying you, as well as many others in the world. If you want me to join, you must earn my full approval. You are far from achieving that," Mr. Shi shook his head.


    "Oh? And what conditions are those?" Zhongshan stared at Mr. Shi.


    Looking at Zhongshan, Mr. Shi smiled faintly. "Firstly, you must have a strong will to survive. If your life isn''t tough enough, how can you dominate the world? In this regard, you''ve basically achieved it. Your luck is extraordinary. Even in several near-death situations, you''ve emerged unscathed, gaining substantial rewards each time."


    "Thank you, Mr. Shi!" Zhongshan nodded.


    "Survival is one aspect; the other is, if you want me to submit, shouldn''t you defeat me?" Mr. Shi said.


    "Defeat you?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows, sensing Mr. Shi''s hidden meaning.


    "Yes, in my domain, you must defeat me. Can you surpass me in the realm of the undead?" Mr. Shi smiled as he looked at Zhongshan.


    With a wave of his hand, five mummified figures suddenly emerged from the ground, surrounding Zhongshan.


    ncing at the five mummies, Zhongshan pondered for a moment. "To prove myself, do I need to defeat them?"


    "How to prove it, that depends on you," Mr. Shi replied nomittally.


    Setting down his teacup gently, Zhongshan stood up and faced the five mummies with a slight smile. "Very well, as Mr. Shi said, I will defeat you in your domain. I just hope Mr. Shi won''t go back on your word."


    "The Great Gou Kingdom and the Yin Yue Dynasty will inevitably sh one day. At that time, I''ll stand with the Yin Yue Dynasty, and you can prove yourself to me. In truth, I look forward to it," Mr. Shi said softly.


    "Mr. Shi, rest assured," Zhongshan replied with utmost confidence.


    "Hmm, but before that, I want to verify whether your luck still holds," Mr. Shi''s face turned cold.


    As soon as Mr. Shi finished speaking, the five mummified figures surrounding Zhongshan suddenly charged at him. Their momentum seemed intent on utterly destroying Zhongshan. It happened too fast.


    "Farewell!" Zhongshan uttered only those words.


    "Boom~~~" The five mummies simultaneously thrust their hands into Zhongshan''s body.


    "Bang~~~" Zhongshan seemed to disperse into the tiniest particles in an instant, then vanishedpletely.


    Mr. Shi didn''t show much surprise; he just furrowed his brows slightly. With a wave of his hand, the mummies sank back into the ground.


    At the same time, outside the imperial city of the Yin Yue Dynasty, atop a mountain peak.


    Zhongshan, d in ck robes, stood there with a wolf general by his side.


    "Zhongshan, did you ask me to bring you here just to enjoy the breeze on this peak?" the wolf general frowned.


    It had been nearly an hour; Zhongshan had been staring into the distance the whole time. What day was it today? Zhongshan''s hundredth birthday! The entire Great Gou Kingdom was celebrating, yet Zhongshan had asked him to bring him here.


    What was the point ofing here? Just to enjoy the breeze?


    "I''vee to receive the best gift," Zhongshan chuckled softly.


    "Receive a gift? Where are you receiving it from?" the wolf general asked, puzzled.


    "I''ve already received it," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Received it?" The wolf general widened his eyes, looking utterly puzzled.


    "Let''s go back," Zhongshan said.


    "Uh..." The wolf general was full of doubts. Was the purpose of this birthday visit just to take a look here?


    Zhongshan naturally didn''t exin further. The matter had been settled; the Heavenly Shadow Scroll had created a clone, and an agreement had been reached with Mr. Shi. As for how it would bepleted, that was a matter for the future.


    In the evening, Zhongshan and the wolf general hurried back to the Great Gou Kingdom.


    The Emperor''s hundredth birthday was being celebrated with great joy throughout the kingdom. At the outer square of the Eternal Life Hall, there were more banquet tables set up than during the Eightieth Birthday celebration. Generals and officials had already taken their seats, waiting for the Emperor to arrive. Inside the Imperial Capital, there were countless more banquet tables, celebrating the Emperor''s centennial birthday.


    Centennial birthday? A hundred years old is indeed a cause for celebration.


    Zhongshan sat at thergest banquet table outside the Eternal Life Hall, receiving countless blessings from his subordinates, feeling deeply moved.


    Lin Xiao, Ying Lan, Bao Er, and Wei Taizhong sat at this table. Among them, Little Wolf Immortal Xian Xian was also present, followed by four empty seats.


    Two were for the princes who were away, and the other two, only Bao Er knew��one for Empress Tian Ling''er and the other for Empress Kui''er.

 Chapter 308: Entering Da Guang

    <h4>Chapter 308: Entering Da Guang</h4>


    Dachi City, City Lord''s Mansion!


    The central hall was tightly closed, with only Zhongshan inside, as seen by everyone.


    Inside the hall, a feast wasid out.


    Zhongshan sat at the main seat, with a figure in ck robes kneeling before him.


    "Congrattions, Master, on your hundredth birthday!" the figure in ck robes said.


    "Dark Emperor, your skill in covert operations has be more formidable. In just these few years, you''ve undergone a transformation," Zhongshan helped up the Dark Emperor and smiled.


    "Shenzhou is a good ce. Master''s reputation will soon spread throughout the world, and I''ve had some fortunate encounters myself," the Dark Emperor chuckled.


    "On my hundredth birthday, I didn''t expect you to be the only one here to offer congrattions from Shenzhou," Zhongshan sighed softly.


    "And what about the Political Crown Prince?" the Dark Emperor asked.


    "I''ve sent him to handle some matters," Zhongshan said.


    "I see," the Dark Emperor nodded.


    "Come, regardless, there''s still you and me," Zhongshan invited the Dark Emperor to sit down.


    "Thank you, Master!" the Dark Emperor respectfully replied.


    On amercial street, in the Daron Merchants Association, a shop closed its doors today. Inside, Zhong Zheng arranged a banquet, celebrating with others, though only he knew what was being celebrated.


    In a ce filled with Buddhist chants, within a mountain valley, Zhong Tian personally set up a table of wine and began drinking alone.


    Inside a bamboo forest, Bei Qingsi made a pot of fish soup. The kind of fish soup Zhongshan made for him was ced on the stone table, one bowl for himself and another across from him.


    The hundredth birthday celebration was not grand, but it was very warm. Whether in seclusion or in his original ce, Zhongshan hadpany.


    After the banquet, with a wave of his hand, the gates opened.


    As soon as the central hall doors opened, A Da rushed in at high speed.


    A figure in ck robes? When did hee in? If it weren''t for the master''s opening the door to attract his attention, he wouldn''t have noticed at all, who is he?


    At this moment, the Dark Emperor was once again wrapped in ck robes, with even his headpletely covered.


    Although A Da couldn''t see his face, he could perceive with his ''divine sense'' that he hadn''t reached the Golden Core stage? Not even the Nascent Soul stage, how did he deceive his own eyes? When did hee in?


    The Dark Emperor respectfully bowed to Zhongshan and then silently withdrew from the main hall.


    Zhongshan was here, and A Da couldn''t stop him to ask, but everything was too strange.


    The Dark Emperor left. A Da immediately looked at Zhongshan and said, "Sir, who was that just now?"


    "A friend of mine," Zhongshan said��


    Five monthster. Inside the territory of the Da Guang Emperor Dynasty! At the summit of a mountain peak.


    Zhongshan, apanied by his generals, looked at the distant mountains and rivers. In the valley below, there were a million troops hidden, with the First Battalion of the Da Xuan Army still at two hundred thousand, the Lone Double Wolf Cavalry still at fifty thousand, and Water Trace''s army, along with those summoned and recruitedter, already totaling seventy-five thousand.


    A million troops, under themand of the Da Xuan King, marched into the territory of the Da Guang Emperor Dynasty to assist in capturing it.


    "General, what should we do next?" Water Trace asked.


    "First, seize a city as our foothold, and then n our next move," Zhongshan said confidently.


    "Which city do you n to capture?" Water Trace asked.


    "We need to have the potential for alliance with other Da Luo military forces. Also, we can''t be too far from the hearnd of the Da Guang Emperor Dynasty!" Zhongshan thought for a moment.


    "In ordance with our assigned territories, it should be either ''Daye City'' or ''White Emperor City''," Shui Wuheng pondered aloud.


    "Exactly, these two cities are crucial military strongholds," Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Once we capture one, the other will be even harder to take. Which shall we attack? Daye City was the former capital of the Daye Dynasty, while White Emperor City, though weaker like Wushuang City, should be easier to conquer," Shui Wuheng suggested.


    "We take Daye City!" Zhongshan affirmed decisively.


    "Daye City? Its defenses are formidable. If we attack now, can we breach its walls?" Shui Wuheng voiced his concern.


    "If we don''t act now, it will only get harder in the future. Daye City it is. Notify the troops, prepare to march!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" the generals responded in unison��


    At the Grand Emperor Camp of the Daye Dynasty, within the central tent of the main army.


    Generals stood on either side, Xi��o W��ng donned a in linen robe, hair tied behind, sitting at themand table, clutching a sealed letter.


    "Zhongshan ising," Xi��o W��ng took a deep breath.


    "The Grand Commander, is it Zhongshan who''s conquered twelve cities of the Great Yu Coast in five months?" amander asked.


    "Yes, it is him," Xi��o W��ng nodded.


    Restlessness swept through the generals; Zhongshan''s reputation extended even into the Grand Light Realm.


    "Commander, where is Zhongshan now?" a general inquired.


    "I don''t know where exactly, but I know where he intends to go," Xi��o W��ng spoke in a solemn tone.


    "Hmm?" confusion rippled among the generals.


    "In the Grand Light battlefield, the various divisions of the Da Luo Army keep shifting directions. Only the center has a gap now. Grand Xuan King won''t allow us a direct route into the Grand Luo Empire, so another army is bound to fill that gap. And there, in these crucial military positions, lie two cities: Daye City and White Emperor City. White Emperor City is weaker, but Zhongshan, with his arrogance, will never choose the weaker option. He will undoubtedly attack Daye City! Within half a month, he will be at Daye City," Xi��o W��ng affirmed with absolute certainty.


    If Zhongshan were here, he would surely marvel at Xi��o W��ng''s analytical prowess��so precise!


    "Commander, the current garrison at Daye City is led by the Young Prince, with a million troops. But Zhongshan is a military genius. I request permission to lead troops to assist the Young Prince, to coordinate and annihte Zhongshan," a general immediately requested.


    "Heh heh, there''s no need for you to go!" Xi��o W��ng chuckled.


    "But!" the general looked puzzled.


    "Not only you, Yuan Deng should withdraw from Daye City immediately," Xi��o W��ng took a deep breath.


    "Commander, withdraw Daye City to Zhongshan? It''s a fortress, a richnd!" the general objected reluctantly.


    "Let him have it. Fortress? Richnd? It will soon be a graveyard!" Xi��o W��ng''s face turned stern.


    "Hmm?" the generals were perplexed. But Commander Xi��o W��ng''s reputation was unquestionable��


    Daye City, a massive fortress, its grandeur not quite like the Sky City butrger than Wushuang City.


    Daye City, gleaming white throughout, strikingly beautiful.


    Within the former imperial pce, inside a grand hall.


    Here knelt the generals who once stood alongside Xi��o Yuanfeng, the Lord of the Azure Cloud Sect, before the Millennium Ghost. Xi��o W��ng''s second adopted son, Xi��o Yuandeng.


    Xi��o Yuandeng held a letter in his hand, a military order from Xi��o W��ng. As he finished reading, his eyes widened. Swiftly leaving the imperial pce, he ascended to a high vantage point and surveyed the city below. After a thorough look, Xi��o Yuandeng sharply drew in a breath, his eyes filled with shock.


    The contents of Xi��o W��ng''s letter were astonishing!


    "Come, quickly!" Xi��o Yuandeng shouted.


    Several generals swiftly approached.


    "Commander!" the generals questioned.


    "Prepare the troops, all troops, ready to leave the city!" Xi��o Yuandengmanded.


    "Commander?" the generals looked puzzled. All troops? Ready to leave the city? Abandon Daye City?


    "Hurry!" Xi��o Yuandeng urged.


    "Yes!" the generals responded.


    Soon after, Xi��o Yuandeng led the generals, swiftly exiting the city.


    As Xi��o Yuandeng left, the city''s residents were filled with confusion. What was happening? In such turbulent times, was the city being abandoned? The citizens were perplexed, and some astute ones sensed something unusual and quietly followed the departing troops��


    Three dayster, Zhongshan led his army to a halt some distance from Daye City. Instead of advancing immediately, Zhongshan paused. Suddenly, he felt something amiss.


    "The Red Phoenix, Blue Lotus, has it turned ominous?" Zhongshan furrowed his brow deeply, puzzled. Just then, a scout rushed over.


    "Reporting, General!" the scout bowed.


    "Speak!" Zhongshan immediately focused on him.


    "Daye City has withdrawn all defenses. There is not a single soldier left inside, only countless civilians," the scout reported.


    "Impossible! How could this be? Are the soldiers disguised as civilians?" Shui Wuheng immediately queried.


    "No, four days ago, all military forces withdrew from the city. They have all left the city. Daye City is defenseless now, ripe for the taking," the scout replied promptly.


    "Send out more scouts!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" the scout hurried away.


    "Zhao Chuan, dispatch more men to Daye City. Investigate thoroughly and station more scouts in all directions. This is unusual!" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yes," Zhao Chuan acknowledged.


    "Wuheng, notify the troops to prepare for a retreat!" Zhongshan looked at Shui Wuheng.


    "R-retreat?" Shui Wuheng looked puzzled.


    "Retreat!" Zhongshan asserted firmly.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuheng could onlyply.


    The army retreated for a day before stopping in another valley. Another day passed, and the scouts returned with the same report: Daye City waspletely defenseless, all defenses had been withdrawn.


    "Is Xi��o W��ng out of his mind?" Zhao Chuan remarked strangely.


    "General, regardless of Xi��o W��ng''s intentions, we must take Daye City. If not now, then when?" Shui Wuheng immediately eximed.


    "Shui Wuheng, stay behind and lead the troops. I will go see for myself!" Zhongshan decided after a moment''s thought.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuheng promptly responded.


    Subsequently, Zhongshan, apanied by �� D��, Zh�� Hu��, and Ni��n Y��uy��u, hurried towards Daye City.

 Chapter 309: Battlefield of Purgatory

    <h4>Chapter 309: Battlefield of Purgatory</h4>


    "Zhongshan, why are you so suspicious? Daye City has no defenses left, at most just some civilians. With your million-strong army, can''t you easily overpower them?" Flying in the air, Ni��n Y��uy��u kept chattering.


    "Regarding Xi��o W��ng''s strategies, from the information we gathered earlier, it''s clear he''s no ordinary man. Everything he does has a profound purpose. Why would he give up Daye City, such a fortress, to me? It''s impossible. There must be some conspiracy," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "Conspiracy? Who cares about a conspiracy! Let''s just seize the city first!" Ni��n Y��uy��u retorted.


    "I dare not," Zhongshan shook his head.


    As they flew towards Daye City, the Red Phoenix and Pink Lotus remained blue, a sign of great cmity! What kind of cmity was brewing?


    Upon reaching outside the city, Zhongshan halted at a distant mountain peak.


    With his group, they watched Daye City from afar!


    Daye City, where citizens came and went without anything unusual happening.


    Zhongshan called over a nearby scout.


    "General, everything in Daye City remains unchanged. There''s truly no defense, and I''ve even walked through the pce, which waspletely emptied out. There''s no one there!" the scout reported immediately.


    "Let''s go, let''s go inside!" Ni��n Y��uy��u suggested.


    "No, we wait here!" Zhongshan took a deep breath. He couldn''t understand where the problemy��


    Meanwhile, in Xi��o W��ng''smand tent!


    "Yuan Deng has withdrawn, right?" Xi��o W��ng asked.


    "He should have left. It''s been a long time since he came down, and after delivering the letter to the Young Prince that day, a scout saw Zhongshan''s army. They were only two or three days away from Daye City at that time. Now, Zhongshan''s army should have already entered the city," amander said.


    "Such a coincidence, Zhongshan''s timing is just too perfect!" Xi��o W��ng chuckled.


    "Father," at this moment, another general stepped forward.


    Xi��o Yu��nf��ng, the former head of the Azure Cloud Sect, was now surprisingly part of Xi��o W��ng''s army.


    "Father, are you referring to the ''Monster of Sin'' that we''ve kept isted from information?" Xi��o Yu��nf��ng asked.


    Surprised by Xi��o Yu��nf��ng''s insight, Xi��o W��ng smiled approvingly, "Exactly. This creature emerged on the battlefield, acting independently withoutmunicating with anyone. But it''s a sharp de��if wielded well, it can be used by our army to capture cities and territories. What we sealed in the past is for today. If Zhongshan meets his end by its hands, it would be... quite anticlimactic."


    "Will Zhongshan really die?" Xi��o Yu��nf��ng worried.


    "That''s why I''ve kept a trump card," Xi��o W��ng smiled knowingly��


    Sure enough, on the second day of Zhongshan''s wait, when Ni��n Y��uy��u was getting impatient, something bizarre urred.


    From the southeastern sky, a sudden sh of red clouds appeared. Initially appearing small in the distant sky, the red clouds slowly drew nearer.


    Blood-red clouds churned incessantly, covering the sky in all directions, as if the entire horizon had been engulfed in a moment by these crimson clouds.


    "Monster of Sin!" Ni��n Y��uy��u eximed in shock.


    "The Monster of Sin released by the Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva? How did it be sorge? So powerful?" �� D�� was also astonished.


    As the sky was filled with the blood-red clouds, �� D�� and hispanions kept retreating further and further. The direction these blood-red clouds were heading towards��was Daye City.


    The blood clouds arrived swiftly, appearing over the skies of Daye City in an instant.


    A sea of blood-red color nketed arge portion of Daye City, gradually descending to engulf its vast expanse.


    "Ah~~~~~~!"


    Infinite, piercing screams echoed from within Daye City.


    "Ah~~~~~~!"


    "Ah~~~~~~!"


    ... The continuous wails of agony made it seem as if Daye City had suddenly transformed into a purgatory of sorts, with countless screams emanating from within.


    The terrifying Monster of Sin had entered the city.


    Zhongshan and his group flew towards the east, peering through the wide-open gates into the city''s interior.


    At first nce, their scalps went numb with horror.


    Blood rain, torrents of blood rain, not falling from the sky but rising upwards from the ground.


    As the Monster of Sin rotated, a red light enveloped everything.


    As if imprisoning the people within the city, numerous individuals suddenly convulsed. From their bodies, copious amounts of blood sprayed forth, shooting skyward. Everywhere was misted over with blood fog. When this blood fog gathered, it surged upward like rainwater reversing its flow.


    It was too horrifying!


    Some with higher cultivation desperately struggled, but those with lower cultivation instantly turned into dried corpses.


    Nearly half of the city''s poption, utterly powerless to resist, watched helplessly as others, not covered by the red light, desperately fled towards the city gates. Some cornered residents even recklessly charged towards the sky.


    "Boom~~~~~ Boom~~~~~ Boom~~~~~"


    Countless people were struck down by the city''s formations.


    The Monster of Sin became increasingly reckless.


    Expanding, after absorbing countless amounts of blood, it actually grewrger andrger, quickly engulfing the entire Daye City.


    It was too massive, too horrifying. Daye City, with at least tens of millions of residents!


    Dead! Only a few managed to escape, while the rest were drained of their blood, reduced to dry husks.


    As the Monster of Sin continued to grow step by step, expanding its power, there was no escape for the city''s residents. After the creature expanded its body, almost everyone was covered. No one could escape.


    A city turned into purgatory, countless people crying out in torment, as their blood was drained not in an instant, but over a process��a process of terrifying screams and pleas for mercy.


    "Ah~~~~~~!"


    "Ah~~~~~~!"


    "Save me~~~~~~!"


    ... "Retreat!" Zhongshan ordered bluntly.


    The terrifying Monster of Sin. Not just Zhongshan, but even �� D��, Zh�� Hu��, and Ni��n Y��uy��u��three peak Sovereign Realm powerhousescked the courage to face it head-on. The current Monster of Sin was undoubtedly far stronger than before!


    With the scout in tow, the five of them swiftly retreated, withdrawing further and further.


    Perhaps it was psychological, even after retreating tens of thousands of miles, they could still hear the agonizing cries of Daye City.


    "What a monstrous creature!" �� D�� eximed in horror.


    "Hehe, the Great Vajra Dragon Bodhisattva''s Bodhi position is definitely not secure anymore," Ni��n Y��uy��u mused.


    "Monsters of Sin are growing increasingly powerful. When will their havoc end?" Zh�� Hu�� frowned deeply.


    "If left unchecked, they''ll wreak havoc until they face the might of the heavens," Ni��n Y��uy��u exined. "If they survive, they transcend into immortality; if they fail, they''ll be obliterated by divine judgment. Monsters of Sin devour endless blood to grow stronger, without the limitations typical to other beings. As long as they have enough blood, especially high-quality blood, they can continue to evolve. They defy the natural order, and that''s why they are coveted by many powerful individuals. Destroying one of them brings immense virtue and countless blessings, a shortcut to umting profound karmic merit."


    "But now that it''s be so formidable, even the Great Vajra Dragon might struggle to deal with it," Zh�� Hu�� said, his brows knitted tightly together.


    Throughout this conversation, Zhongshan remained silent, his gaze cold and contemtive.


    With a flick of his wrist, Zhongshan produced a jade slip. He infused it with some information, sealing it with a unique method.


    Turning to the scout, he ordered, "Deliver this to Shui Wuhen with all haste!"


    "Yes, my lord!" The scout saluted and swiftly departed.


    "What did you give him?" Ni��n Y��uy��u asked, puzzled.


    "I ordered Shui Wuhen to bring the troops here," Zhongshan replied, his eyes fixed on the distant horizon.


    "Are you summoning your entire army?" Ni��n Y��uy��u asked, astonished.


    "If they don''te, should we just hand over everything in this city to others?" Zhongshan responded firmly.


    "But...!" Ni��n Y��uy��u furrowed her brow in concern.


    "Earlier, my scouts found no information about the Monster of Sin. For it to grow to such a size, it must have caused havoc in many ces, yet there was no news about it. Such widespread destruction should have been known throughout the world. The fact that it wasn''t means the information was suppressed. Who could have done that? In the territory of Da Guang, only Xiao Wang has the capability to suppress information so thoroughly. And remember, he had his subordinates withdraw from the city beforehand," Zhongshan said with conviction.


    "The Monster of Sin cannot negotiate with anyone. Although it possesses intelligence now, its wisdom is still limited. It acts purely on instinct!" Ni��n Y��uy��u frowned in thought.


    "It''s precisely because of this instinct that it can be used. Xiao Wang, while managing a vast battlefield, can''t micromanage every detail. If he didn''t need to oversee the entire war, he could have waited until we were all in the city and then lured the Monster of Sin in. By then, my entire army would have been annihted," Zhongshan said, shaking his head in contemtion.


    "Lure it? With what?" Zh�� Hu�� asked, perplexed.


    "As long as there are people, it can be lured," Zhongshan stated matter-of-factly.


    In the brief moment of their conversation, the Monster of Sin had already drained the blood from everyone in Daye City. The city was now filled with corpses, millions of dry husks. Despite its overwhelming strength, the Monster of Sin didn''t challenge the city''s defensive formation but instead began to morph and emerge slowly through the city gates.


    A blood-red cloud, brimming with malevolent energy, rose into the sky, drifting ominously towards the southwest. It needed more blood, more cities to ravage.


    The uing battles in Da Guang would turn into a hellishndscape with this creature involved.

 Chapter 310: Ambush

    <h4>Chapter 310: Ambush</h4>


    Zhong Shan led his million-strong army into Da Ye City. The scene was incredibly tragic; the millions of city residents had turned into corpses, transforming the city into a massive graveyard, filled with death and despair. The soldiers couldn''t help but break out in cold sweat, secretly thankful that if not for themander''s foresight, they might have be one of these lifeless corpses.


    Although Da Ye City had be a deadnd, it also represented a treasure trove. All the shops and resources within the city were now unguarded, all belonging to Zhong Shan. However, Zhong Shan did not immediately send people to collect the wealth; instead, he quickly issued a series ofmands to set a trap.


    "Shui Wuhen!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Here!" Shui Wuhen responded immediately.


    "Close the eastern, western, and northern gates, leaving only the southern gate open. Have our soldiers put on our armor and dress the corpses of the city residents near the southern gate, scattering them around to create the appearance that our army was annihted by the Nefarious Demon." Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen quicklyplied and set about the arrangements.


    "Find some high-ranking officers, disguise them to look extremely haggard and miserable, and have them mourn over the corpses near the southern gate." Zhong Shan continued.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen answered once more.


    "Attack anyone who enters the city indiscriminately, attacking with rage. Let them flee if they escape, do not chase them. The role they are ying is that of soldiers who have lost their sanity." Zhong Shan stated firmly.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen affirmed.


    "Everyone else, prepare. Some of you go to the city walls, get ready to use the Break-the-Sky arrows for an ambush. Others, hide in areas where they can block divine senses, waiting for mymand." Zhong Shan directed.


    "Yes!" The generals responded in unison and began their preparations.


    Da Ye City returned to a state of eerie quietness, with only the asional heart-wrenching cries echoing in the air.


    Zhong Shan, ignoring the temptation of the city''s wealth, instead set up a well-crafted ambush. As expected, the next day, a massive army appeared outside Da Ye City,ing from the south as Zhong Shan had predicted. Leading them was none other than Xiao Yuandeng, who previously garrisoned the area.


    "Commander, we have returned," a general beside Xiao Yuandeng said with a sigh.


    "Yes, let''s hope Zhong Shan has perished inside." Xiao Yuandeng frowned and said.


    In the distance, a scout quickly flew over, bearing some injuries.


    "Reporting to themander, the interior is filled with countless casualties, especially the bodies of soldiers from the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty, scattered everywhere. Some survivors are wailing in grief. When our men entered, they were attacked madly by these survivors." The scout quickly reported.


    "Move out!" Xiao Yuandeng waved his hand, and the army headed toward the southern gate.


    As they reached the city gate, the "remaining soldiers" inside suddenly stopped crying, each showing a look of "fear."


    "Protect themander!" shouted one of the "remaining soldiers" who had a knack for acting.


    Then, the "remaining soldiers" within the city flew towards the inner city, leaving only one or two people still "immersed" in their grief.


    "Something''s wrong, Zhong Shan isn''t dead, he''s trying to escape. Let''s go!" Xiao Yuandeng decided immediately and rushed into the city.


    The army also swarmed into the city, chasing in the direction where the "remaining soldiers" had fled. Xiao Yuandeng led the chase, with the generals following closely behind. Although the regr soldiers couldn''t keep up, they also charged into the city with all their might.


    From the city wall, Zhong Shan smiled slightly, "This Xiao Yuandeng really can''t keep his cool. If he had waited a bit longer, he might have gotten crucial information from the fleeing civilians. But now...."


    Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with ruthlessness as he shouted, "Fire!"


    In an instant, numerous silhouettes appeared on the city wall. Soldiers of the Daluo army suddenly raised their Break-the-Sky arrows andunched them towards the men below.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    ...Xiao Yuandeng had fallen into the trap. In this first volley of arrows, nearly 150,000 soldiers were struck down.


    But the Break-the-Sky arrows were far from few. In no time, they were drawn again, aimed at the soldiers packed like an ant colony in the city. Another volley rained down, causing countless casualties.


    As Xiao Yuandeng charged into the city, he suddenly heard sounds from the city wall in the distance and knew immediately that something was wrong. He turned his head to look.


    "Kill!"


    "Kill!"


    From hidden positions around the city,rge numbers of troops suddenly emerged, charging at his forces with overwhelming killing intent.


    "Form ranks!" amander from the Daguang army shouted.


    The troops quickly tried to form up to resist, but the arrows from the city wall, like death''s summons, harvested lives like cutting wheat, preventing them from organizing effectively.


    By the time the Daluo soldiers arrived, nearly 400,000 had already fallen, and those remaining were in disarray,cking discipline and organization. Under the assault of the wolf cavalry, they became even more chaotic.


    Defeat! Defeat! Defeat!


    There was no suspense; with Zhong Shan''s thorough preparation, countless lives were lost. When Xiao Yuandeng looked back at the city wall, he realized he had underestimated the enemy. Truly underestimated!


    What to do? A counterattack was impossible; there was no time to organize. It was a massacre! Escaping into the city to regroup was also not an option. Xiao Yuandeng knew the city would be another trapid by Zhong Shan.


    "Retreat, retreat from the city!" Xiao Yuandeng shouted.


    Clearing a path through the rain of arrows, he led the remaining troops out of the city in a hasty retreat. On the battlefield, prepared archers are often the most terrifying, and those who had been shooting into the city now turned and fired at the fleeing Daguang soldiers, attacking them furiously.


    Defeat! Defeat! Defeat!


    It was a disastrous defeat. Xiao Yuandeng fled in ignominy.


    "Wuhen, I''m leaving you with 400,000 troops. Remember, only allow 5,000 soldiers to quickly loot all the wealth in the city using special storage bracelets, and then report back to you. Destroy the storage bracelets afterward," Zhong Shan ordered Shui Wuhen.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded promptly.


    "Guard the city well until we return," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded again.


    "Zhao Chuan, let''s go!" Zhong Shan called to Zhao Chuan.


    Then, the army quickly set off in pursuit. It was the perfect time for a chase, to pursue and eliminate Xiao Yuandeng.


    Xiao Yuandeng was truly unlucky. He never imagined that Zhong Shan would be so cunning, avoiding an unguarded city and only entering after the Nefarious Demon had departed.


    Who would have thought? Truly, who could have imagined? This miscalction led to overconfidence, and without further verification, we charged right in.


    Defeated. What a ridiculous defeat this time. The most disgraceful one in history.


    Fleeing with the army in a frenzy, but Zhong Shan''s 600,000 troops, well-prepared, pursued relentlessly. The front was in chaos, while the rear was in organized pursuit. High-ranking generals directly plunged into Xiao Yuandeng''s rear guard, breaking up their retreat. Those men were then engulfed by the pursuing army.


    The escape and ughter were bizarre, leaving no breathing space. Even a slight pause could allow them to reorganize, but Zhong Shan''s army never gave them that chance.


    Especially the wolf cavalry. Xiao Yuandeng noticed that whenever his army tried to stop and regroup, the wolf cavalry would quickly scatter their formation, causing his remaining troops to dissolvepletely.


    Wolf cavalry? Cavalry? How did Zhong Shan have so many cavalry? On the battlefield, cavalry are used to break formations. With his 50,000 cavalry, how could you fight effectively on the ins?


    Xiao Yuandeng''s army fled frantically. Some soldiers, seeing the dire situation, even deserted and scattered. Although they became rebels, at least they managed to escape with their lives.


    One desertion led to more.


    Zhong Shan''s army fought with fervor, the wolf cavalry raining arrows down from above, while the infantry ughtered relentlessly, aiming to gain merit. Bodies were collected into storage bracelets, so although there were numerous casualties, few corpses remained behind.


    Upon reaching arge river, Xiao Yuandeng felt a sudden urge to cry. When had he ever been defeated so thoroughly? Of his million-strong army, fewer than 100,000 remained. What a ridiculous battle!


    How could he exin this to his foster father?


    By the riverbank, Xiao Yuandeng faced a dilemma. Not all soldiers could fly. This river crossing would lead to more deaths!


    Xiao Yuandeng was in utter despair, while Zhong Shan''s pursuing army maintained a measured pace. Apart from the merit-seeking infantry, the officers carefully controlled their formation, ensuring no chaos.


    Yes, in war, the military formation must remain intact. Only then can you fight in an orderly manner.


    Just as Xiao Yuandeng was losing hope, a shout came from upstream.


    "Yuandeng,e this way!"


    The voice invigorated Xiao Yuandeng. He turned to see a figure appear on a distant mountain peak, followed by the sudden emergence of numerous soldiers.


    It was Xiao Yuanfeng, the foster son of Xiao Wang!


    "Roarrrrrrrr!"


    "Roarrrrrrrr!"


    "Roarrrrrrrr!"


    Had Xiao Yuanfeng brought reinforcements? No, it seemed more like he had been waiting there all along.


    "Brothers, head east!" Xiao Yuandeng shouted excitedly.


    Seeing the reinforcements, Xiao Yuandeng''s troops naturally surged forward in a frenzy. The army on the mountain quickly descended, and more soldiers emerged continuously from behind the mountain, totaling nearly a million.


    Standing at the forefront, Zhong Shan waved his hand, and Zhao Chuan quickly raised a small red g. Zhong Shan''s army halted.


    The 600,000 troops, having charged and fought their way there, had lost a few thousand but remained strong and formidable.


    Facing them, Xiao Yuanfeng''s million-strong army stood ready. Xiao Yuandeng''s army, retreating rapidly, reached the rear of their formation, leaving only the generals to face Zhong Shan from a distance.


    The two armies halted, facing each other. Xiao Yuandeng was full of regret, unable toprehend how his million-strong force had been reduced to a mere 100,000 in such a ridiculous manner.


    "Father was worried something might go wrong here, so he sent me with a million troops to support you. It seems his concerns were justified. You''ve indeed made a huge blunder," Xiao Yuanfeng said with a strange smile.


    "Who knew Zhong Shan would be so cunning? Even old foxes can''tpare to him!" Xiao Yuandeng said bitterly.

 Chapter 311: Demonic Bones

    <h4>Chapter 311: Demonic Bones</h4>


    The two armies faced off against each other! Xiao Yuanfeng and Xiao Yuandengmanded a force of 1.11 million soldiers, while Zhong Shan had less than 600,000 troops. Although Zhong Shan had fewer soldiers, he had 50,000 wolf cavalry, giving him an overall advantage. However, Zhong Shan was reluctant to maintain this advantage. Engaging in a battle would result in at least half of his forces being lost, including half of his wolf cavalry. If Xiao Yuanfeng targeted the wolf cavalry, the casualties would be even higher. New to the area, Zhong Shan couldn''t afford to gamble, nor did he want to. Recovering lost troops here would take a long time. He couldn''t just retreat either, as it would reveal his weakness to the enemy, prompting them to pursue. The situation would then be reversed, leading to aplete defeat. On the battlefield, a single misstep by themander could lead to total ruin. zing Fire suddenly transformed into a gigantic wolf, and Zhong Shan stepped forward. The troops were ready, awaiting Zhong Shan''s order to charge with full force. A sense of invincibility emanated from them. At first, Xiao Yuanfeng furrowed his brow with slight concern, but soon, he seemed to understand everything. He waved his hand. "Roarrrrrrr!" The soldiers let out a thunderous roar, ready to charge with all their might at Xiao Yuanfeng''smand! Standing atop the giant wolf, Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, a sly smile ying on his lips. Xiao Wang was no ordinary opponent, and his foster son was formidable as well. The two armies were like coiled springs, ready to explode at the slightest provocation. "Xiao Yuanfeng!" Zhong Shan called out, hoping to strike a psychological blow with words. "Hmph, Zhong Shan, I know you have a sharp tongue. The Grand Commander has strictly ordered us not to engage you in conversation!" Xiao Yuanfeng shouted back. "Haha, you don''t even have the courage to speak with me?" Zhong Shan immediately retorted. At this moment, before the two armies shed, gaining a moral and psychological edge would make a difference in the momentum of the ensuing battle. "Hmph, archers ready!" Xiao Yuanfeng was not swayed by Zhong Shan''s taunts. Seeing Xiao Yuanfeng''s resilience, Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow and waved his hand. His troops quickly formed battle lines and prepared their bows, arrows aimed at the opposing army. A single gesture from eithermander would unleash a torrent of arrows, raining down like a storm. In this tense standoff between the two armies: "ng... ng... ng..." Suddenly, a crisp bell rang out across the battlefield. The bell''s sound was clear, though not loud, yet it spread to all corners, resonating in the ears of all 1.7 million soldiers on the battlefield, prating the depths of their souls. In an instant, everyone on the battlefield was momentarily stunned. Even Zhong Shan, standing atop the giant wolf, felt his spirit waver, as if his body remained still but his soul trembled violently, quivering back and forth outside his body. With minds unsettled and souls trembling, the terrifying sound of the bell immobilized over a million people with a single ring. They stood there quietly, waiting for their souls to stop quivering and for their minds to calm. The bell''s sound was too terrifying, too powerful.


    Perhaps due to Zhong Shan''s indomitable will or perhaps due to the effects of the Red Phoenix Scripture, Zhong Shan was the first to stabilize his mind and quickly recovered from the bewildering tremor.


    Once clear-headed, Zhong Shan observed that the opposing army, all 1.11 million of them, had beenpletely immobilized by that terrifying bell sound. Only Xiao Yuanfeng and Xiao Yuandeng had snapped out of it, cold sweat pouring down as they frantically looked around.


    Zhong Shan''s own troops were in a simr state, dazed and their souls violently trembling. Only Ada and the giant wolf under Zhong Shan''s feet, Zhihuo, were able to quickly recover, drenched in cold sweat. Nian Youyou, however, seemed unaffected by the bell, either having awakened earlier or not being influenced by it at all.


    Following Nian Youyou''s gaze, Zhong Shan looked towards a mountain peak at the side of the battlefield.


    At the peak, shrouded in mist, stood a woman in a purple robe, quietly observing. Despite the distance, her voluptuous figure exuded an enchanting allure that made onlookers feel a heat rising within them just by looking at her silhouette. Her hair was tied up, and a veil covered her face, revealing only her eyes��clear and deep as pools.


    Born with seductive bones!


    Nian Youyou was also naturally seductive, butpared to the woman on the peak, she seemed far less potent. Nian Youyou''s allure required specific actions, expressions, or words to manifest, making it difficult for others to resist. The woman in the purple robe, however, stood there demurely and gracefully, and even from such a distance, she radiated an irresistible charm. This went beyond mere seductiveness; it was more fitting to call her demonic, too captivating.


    Hanging from the woman''s waist was a small purple bell��the source of the earlier sound that had caused chaos among a million soldiers.


    For a bell with such power, the woman herself must be extraordinarily formidable.


    As the battlefield slowly regainedposure, the troops gazed at the distant mountain peak with lingering fear that soon gave way to a subtle arousal. Zhong Shan could even hear some of his soldiers gulping audibly.


    Too eerie! Who was she?


    "Master, why are you here?" Nian Youyou suddenly spoke up.


    Master?


    Everyone turned to look at Nian Youyou. Her master?


    Zhong Shan frowned. He had long heard from various people that Nian Youyou had a powerful master. Even Xuan Yuan, who guarded the Eight Extremities of Heaven, had mentioned it.


    Ada and Zhihuo looked on in shock. This woman in the purple robe was incredibly powerful!


    Opposite them, Xiao Yuanfeng and Xiao Yuandeng were filled with uncertainty, ncing between Nian Youyou and the woman in the purple robe in the distance.


    They exchanged a look, realizing that things were not going in their favor. To think of attacking now? That would be suicidal. One ring of the bell had immobilized a million troops. Fortunately, the woman had not specifically targeted their army or aided the opposing army. Otherwise, their troops, in that moment of stupor, would have been decimated by a volley of arrows from the enemy.


    That wasn''t the main issue. The main concern was the woman among the enemy forces. Nian Youyou had addressed the figure on the mountain as ''Master,'' and the woman in the purple robe had not denied it, thereby acknowledging Nian Youyou''s call.


    Master? If Nian Youyou brought her into the battlefield!


    Unimaginable. Unthinkable.


    Xiao Yuanfeng and Xiao Yuandeng exchanged a nce, then quickly ordered their troops. Xiao Yuanfeng signaled, leaving tens of thousands at the front for a defensive retreat while the rest of the army slowly and swiftly pulled back.


    From afar, Zhong Shan saw Xiao Yuanfeng and Xiao Yuandeng retreating but did not pursue them.


    Xiao Yuanfeng still had soldiers left behind as a rear guard. Unlike Xiao Yuandeng who fled earlier, they only needed to buy some time so the retreating troops could regroup quickly.


    On the peak of the mountain, the woman in purple robes was Master Nian Youyou. Whether she would help him was uncertain. Therefore, Zhongshan opted for stability and did not pursue.


    He let Xiao Yuanfeng lead his troops in a swift retreat.


    After Xiao Yuanfeng left, it didn''t take long before Nian Youyou seized the opportunity. She flew towards a distant mountain peak and stood beside the woman in purple robes.


    "Master, why have youe?" Nian Youyou asked in surprise.


    "Why? Am I not wee?" the woman in purple robes said softly.


    Their conversation was too far away for outsiders to hear, but if they could, it would surely stir them. The woman in purple robes'' voice, more alluring and prating than Xiao Yuanfeng''s seductive charm, was irresistible to anyone except Nian Youyou.


    "No, I''m just surprised," Nian Youyou replied.


    "Have you found the person you''re looking for?" the woman in purple robes asked.


    Nian Youyou nced towards Zhongshan in the distance, looking somewhat nervous, then shook her head. "Not yet!"


    Like mother knows her daughter, having nurtured Nian Youyou for many years, the woman in purple robes quickly saw through Nian Youyou''s slight changes. She also nced briefly at Zhongshan below, who was observing the fire.


    "Golden Core stage?" the woman in purple robes frowned slightly.


    "Master, I haven''t decided yet," Nian Youyou immediately said.


    "Whether you''ve decided or not, if he truly reaches the Golden Core stage, it won''t be a problem in the future," the woman in purple robes said, shaking her head.


    "Master!" Nian Youyou looked somewhat flustered.


    "Alright,e with me now!" the woman in purple robes said.


    "Go? Where?" Nian Youyou asked in confusion.


    "Pure Land of Bliss!" the woman in purple robes said.


    "Pure Land of Bliss? What are we going there for?" Nian Youyou asked, puzzled.


    "You''ll find out when we get there," the woman in purple robes said.


    "Oh..." Nian Youyou nodded reluctantly.


    "Master, should I bid farewell to them? It won''t take long," Nian Youyou looked at the woman in purple robes and said.


    "Don''t forget what cultivation you are practicing. Let''s go!" the woman in purple robes insisted.


    Taking a deep breath, Nian Youyou''s expression became solemn. She knew her previous attitude had vited the principles of her cultivation. She nodded immediately.


    Instead of going back, Nian Youyou made a gesture of farewell towards Zhongshan''s direction and waved her hand.


    Then, she turned her head and together with the woman in purple robes, took a step and disappeared from the peak of the mountain.


    Zhongshan continued to gaze towards the distant mountain peak where the two women had conversed. There was nothing particrly strange about their conversation, except for Nian Youyou waving her hand at the end. Had the woman in purple robese specifically to take Nian Youyou away?


    "Sir, Nian Youyou has left?" A Da asked immediately.


    "Yes!" Zhongshan nodded. Although he knew Nian Youyou had some purpose being by his side, he couldn''t help feeling a bit reluctant as she left.


    Zhihuo Lang would soon resume his human form. Everyone gathered together.


    "That woman is really powerful!" Zhihuo eximed.


    A Da nodded in agreement. Clearly, the strength of the woman in purple robes was something only those like them, at the Emperor Extreme Realm, could fullyprehend.


    "Regroup and return to the city for celebration!" Zhongshan waved his hand.


    "Roar~~~~~~" The excited soldiers roared in response.

 Chapter 312: The Ninth Rank Fiendish Blade

    <h4>Chapter 312: The Ninth Rank Fiendish de</h4>


    Chasing Xiao Yuandeng''s army had taken nearly a day, and the return journey had also consumed another day.


    Two dayster, Zhongshan returned with his army to Daye City. However, standing outside the city, he furrowed his brow because the southern gate of Daye City was wide open.


    Didn''t I instruct Shui Wuheng to keep a close watch on the city? How could the city gates be wide open? Or could something major have happened?


    Standing outside the city, Zhongshan''s army did not rush in but instead observed the city gates and the soldiers still stationed on the city tower.


    "The Grand Marshal is back!" a sharp-eyed soldier eximed excitedly.


    "Inform the generals, the Grand Marshal has returned," amander said.


    Zhongshan stood outside the city, waiting.


    Without understanding the situation inside the city, Zhongshan would not recklessly charge in, having learned from Xiao Yuandeng''s example.


    What''s happened?


    However, while standing outside the city, Zhongshan noticed a huge palm print above the gate of Daye City.


    A palm print?


    Zhongshan was suddenly startled. Who could have left a palm print on the gate of Daye City? This seemed rather abnormal.


    Before long, Shui Wuheng rushed out in a panic.


    "Grand Marshal, you''ve finally returned! Something big has happened in these two days," Shui Wuheng said anxiously.


    Seeing that the soldiers were still on duty on the city tower, Zhongshan said, "Tell me slowly."


    "Yes, Grand Marshal. On the day you left, I closed the gates of Daye City and dispatched five thousand men to quickly search for various resources within the city. However, less than half a dayter, two individuals arrived separately at Daye City!" Shui Wuheng said nervously.


    "Two individuals?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yes, one of them ims to be Da Wei Tianlong and demanded the gates be opened to allow entry for investigation," Shui Wuheng said.


    "Da Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva?" Zhongshan raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, Grand Marshal, there''s a memory crystal here," Shui Wuheng said, handing over a memory crystal.


    Zhongshan quickly took it and examined it.


    In the recording, Da Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva stood alone beneath the city tower.


    "Are these the troops of Daluo?" Da Wei Tianlong asked.


    "Yes, who are you?" Shui Wuheng replied from the city tower.


    "I am of the Daluo Army, Da Wei Tianlong under the Golden Cicada Tent. Open the gates and let me in," Da Wei Tianlong said.


    "The Grand Marshal has ordered that no one is to enter the city!" Shui Wuheng replied firmly.


    Slowly, Da Wei Tianlong rose into the air with his Zen staff, hovering in mid-air and looking down at Shui Wuheng.


    "I am here to investigate the matter of the fiendish demons within the city. It won''t dy you, and besides, you cannot stop me," Da Wei Tianlong''s face showed a hint of anger.


    "Regardless of who you are, please wait. The Grand Marshal will return soon!" Shui Wuheng insisted.


    Da Wei Tianlong''s face darkened, and he raised his hand as if to strike, but seeing the soldiers of Daluo, he took a deep breath and restrained himself, choosing not to attack.


    Just then, beneath the southern gate, another man in golden robes appeared.


    With an imposing air, the man didn''t even look up at the sky but stared fixedly at the southern gate. He raised his hand and struck the southern gate with a palm.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    A tremendous roar echoed out, causing the entire city tower to shake violently. It was too powerful. The force of that palm strike was incredibly fierce.


    Standing on the city tower, Shui Wuheng felt the ground sway beneath him, almost causing him to stumble.


    Below, the man struck with a palm, distorting the space near the city gate, making it appear incredibly unreal.


    On the robust city gate, a massive palm print suddenly appeared.


    The gate of Daye City had been breached!


    A palm strike so robust it bordered on abnormality. This man was incredibly strong.


    The man paid no heed to Shui Wuheng and the soldiers, merely nced at Da Wei Tianlong in the sky before striding into the city.


    Da Wei Tianlong furrowed his brow slightly, then flew into the air above the city tower and slowly descended into the city.


    Shui Wuheng issued orders not to attack.


    Peerless experts��this was what peerless experts were like. As for the self-proimed "Da Wei Tianlong," Shui Wuheng wasn''t sure of his strength, but the man in the golden robes who broke open the city gate, Shui Wuheng knew. Only experts of the level of Da Xuan Wang or someone like Nn Piaoxue could achieve that. If the person iming to be Da Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva was indeed of that caliber, he too would belong to such a category.


    Such an expert could wipe out his entire city alone.


    Now there were two of them. Was he seeking his own death?


    Shui Wuheng merely ordered his men to observe from afar, to see what they were up to. Meanwhile, he continued to urge the five thousand soldiers tasked with looting to hasten their efforts��faster, faster!


    "Sir, that''s Bai Ye!" A Da recognized him at a nce.


    Bai Ye, the emperor of the Daye Dynasty, once entered a feng shui array with Princess Qianyou and others, releasing the Zombie Emperor of the Great Qin City. He was bitten by the Zombie Emperor and became one of his descendants.


    The former Bai Ye had already reached the peak of the Emperor Extreme Realm. Now his strength had increased dramatically. A palm strike that shattered the gates of Daye City?


    Daye City was originally where Bai Ye resided, the capital of the Daye Dynasty.


    Bai Ye had returned?


    "Has anyone been injured?" Zhongshan frowned and asked.


    "No, I ordered my subordinates to stay away from the two men, so there were no casualties," Shui Wuheng said.


    "Hmm!" Zhongshan nodded in satisfaction.


    "However, Da Wei Tianlong inspected for a while and asked about the whereabouts of the fiendish demons. One of my subordinates pointed them out to him, and then he flew away!" Shui Wuheng said.


    "He left? Good!" Zhongshan nodded.


    "But that man in the golden robe, called ''Bai Ye''? He''s still inside the city, currently in the Imperial Pce. I didn''t dare to approach!" Shui Wuheng said.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan furrowed his brow slightly and thought for a moment. "Deploy another five thousand troops and intensify the looting of all wealth within the city."


    "Yes!" Shui Wuheng replied.


    "Zhao Chuan, lead ten thousand men to withdraw, waiting for us ten thousand miles away!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan immediately responded.


    "A Da, Zhihuo, let''s go in and take a look!" Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" A Da and Zhihuo nodded immediately.


    Bai Ye, why has he suddenly appeared here? The Grand Light Battlefield? What is he here for? If he''s here, where is the Zombie Emperor?


    With a heart full of doubt, under the escort of two Emperor Extreme Realm experts, Zhongshan arrived at the outskirts of the Imperial Pce. Standing in a secluded corner, he instructed a subordinate observing there to report.


    "General, that peerless powerhouse has entered the pce now!" reported a subordinate.


    "Hmm," nodded Zhongshan, following the direction indicated by his subordinate, he directly looked towards the central pce.


    The pce stood conspicuously on a za, surrounded by no other buildings, its structure quite peculiar.


    The gates were tightly closed, and as per Zhongshan''s orders, Ada and Zhihuo refrained from using their spiritual senses to probe.


    Baiye. He entered the city without killing anyone, indicating he''s not targeting us. Since that''s the case, it''s best not to provoke him.


    Standing in a remote corner, Zhongshan patiently waited.


    And waited. It took an entire day!


    At that moment, Shuiwufen also flew over. "General, everything that could be looted from the city has been taken away, and anything that could be exchanged for spirit stones has also been moved. However, it will take some time to sort through everything."


    "Hmm, lead the troops out of the city to meet Zhao Chuan. Wait for me there," said Zhongshan.


    "Yes!" Shuiwufen immediately responded and hurried to organize the troops.


    Da Ye City had been emptied.


    Another half day passed.


    "Roar~~~~~"


    Suddenly, a loud roar erupted from the pce Zhongshan was monitoring.


    Immediately after, a frenzy of mes erupted from that spot.


    "Boom~~~~~"


    Billowing mes burst out from the pce, and in an instant, the entire structure turned to ashes.


    It wasn''t fire, but the energy of Diyang!


    Was this the source of Diyang energy?


    "Retreat!" Zhongshan shouted to Ada and Zhihuo.


    The two quickly led Zhongshan to retreat.


    In no time at all, endless mes surged into the sky, and the earth suddenly melted, turning into magma.


    Was this the exit of Diyang energy, or was it a Yangquan underneath?


    As Zhongshan retreated, he saw that while the magma and mes surged into the sky in the distance, they seemed to avoid the central area.


    Baiye stood aloft, his eyes fixed firmly below. His right hand stretched downwards, seemingly guiding an invisible force to avoid the magma and block the Diyang energy.


    In an instant, the entire sky over Da Ye City was shrouded in mes, burning across the sky. After the magma surged into the sky, it smashed towards all directions, leaving devastation in its wake. Forests burned, and buildings were incinerated.


    As for the original site of the imperial pce, it was now filled with endless erupting magma,pletely submerging the entire Da Ye Imperial Pce.


    Meanwhile, under Baiye''s grasp, the Yangquan slowly emitted a ck light from below.


    A powerful killing intent surged in all directions, causing Zhongshan to tremble even from afar.


    What was beneath this Yangquan?


    "ng~~~~~"


    Following a sound of sword chanting, a treasured sword suddenly flew up from below the Yangquan.


    It emitted faint ck aura strands. Looking at the sword, Zhongshan felt a dizzying sensation��full of ughter, condensed like billions of killings. It was extremely cold, arrogant, and violent.


    At the mouth of the Yangquan, if ced in the sea, Zhongshan was sure that this killing intent alone could freeze thousands of miles of ocean.


    "Hahaha~~~~~"


    Baiye burst into excitement,ughing wildly before flying towards the sky.


    Perhaps Baiye knew how to close the city defense formation. At this moment, the sky no longer had any formations. Baiye was excited, holding the great sword, flying towards the distant horizon. Wherever he passed, the sky was filled with mist and snow, and in an instant, only a white fog remained visible on the horizon.


    Baiye departed, and Zhongshan quickly left the city under the escort of Ada and Zhihuo.


    "What kind of sword was that? Suppressing a Yangquan?" Ada eximed in surprise.


    "It''s a ninth-grade sword. I didn''t expect there to be a Yangquan beneath Da Ye City, sealed by a ninth-grade ominous sword," sighed Zhihuo with emotion.

 Chapter 313: Everything for Dazheng

    <h4>Chapter 313: Everything for Dazheng</h4>


    "Nine ranks?" Zhongshan frowned in confusion.


    "Only a ninth-ranked magical treasure has the possibility of possessing spiritual essence. To suppress Yang Springs or Yin Springs, you need a treasure with spiritual essence. This de can suppress Yang Springs, clearly a ninth-ranked treasured de! It''s the most powerful grade of magical treasure known to the world!" exined A Da.


    After a while, the three of them exited the city.


    They withdrew to the encampment of the army.


    Looking at Dagong City in the distance, now filled withva, Zhongshan took a deep breath and said, "What a city Dagong was, all for burying this ninth-ranked sinister de!"


    At that moment, Zhongshan deeply realized that Water Trace''s looting of the city''s wealth was merely scratching the surface. The true wealth, the sinister de, had been taken by Bai Ye. That ninth-ranked sinister de was the real wealth, something money couldn''t buy.


    However, for Zhongshan, this wasn''t bad news. It made him aware of the location of another ninth-ranked magical treasure.


    The Radiant Sun Sword, obtained in ancient times when a few super strongmen forcibly extracted it from the Yin Springs but ultimately failed.


    There''s a Radiant Sun Sword there.


    However, Zhongshan did not intend to go for it. It would take Bai Ye another two or three days to get it out. There was no way he could get it now. He would wait until he was stronger in the future.


    The army looked at the towering mes in the distance, deeply moved! There had been too many changes these days.


    "Marshal, what should we do next?" Water Trace immediately stepped forward and asked.


    "Dagong City is destroyed. We will move towards Bai Huang Dynasty immediately. I''ve already made arrangements there!" Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    "Yes!" Water Trace responded.


    Arrangements made? Water Trace didn''t understand, and neither did the others. They hadn''t even gone to Bai Huang City; how could arrangements have been made?


    When Zhongshan said arrangements had been made, they naturally had been. The gaze of a leader must be far-reaching. Several days ago, when the Fiend Demon destroyed the entire city, Zhongshan had already taken action.


    Dagong City had be an empty city. To stay stationed here? How could that be possible? A city without people was at best a warehouse, especially for their own army. In war, casualties were inevitable, and staying here would lead to attrition. They''d be ground down slowly by the enemy!


    Bai Huang City was smaller, but it was still a city.


    It took them ten days to arrive not far from Bai Huang City.


    It was deep into the night, with clouds covering the moon.


    Standing on the peak of a distant mountain, Zhongshan faced Liu Wushuang, Water Trace, and Zhao Chuandao, saying, "Now, you will charge the city with full force. When you reach the south gate, it will open automatically. Be fast! Seize Bai Huang City in one fell swoop, like lightning strikes without a sound!"


    "Yes!" The three of them looked puzzled.


    The south gate would open automatically? Did the Marshal bribe the lord of Bai Huang City?


    Whether the south gate would open or not was no longer in doubt for everyone. They only knew that following the Marshal''s orders would ensure victory.


    In the pitch-ck night, with a wave of Zhongshan''s hand, the army rushed towards Bai Huang City at lightning speed.


    "Kill~~~~~~"


    On the city tower, the sentinels suddenly heard an earth-shaking roar.


    The sound of battle cries echoed across the battlefield. Converging his gaze towards the distant city under siege, the sentinel''s entire body tensed at the sight.


    "Enemy attack~~~~~"


    "Thud, thud, thud~~~~~"


    The warning drums resounded, signaling the attack from all directions.


    "Stay steady! Form ranks, archers, get ready!" shouted a defending officer.


    "Quick, inform the city lord!" another officer urged anxiously. The city tower''s defenders looked worriedly at the massive enemy army in the distance.


    "Yes!" A young soldier darted into the city.


    "Fire!~~~~~"


    At themand of the leader, a volley of arrows descended swiftly like a meteor shower, raining down upon Zhongshan''s densely packed army.


    "Ahh~~~~~"


    "Ahh~~~~~"


    ... In war, there is death. Zhongshan''s army was no exception, and despite their preparations, many soldiers fell beneath the onught of arrows. In battle, everything happened too quickly.


    Finally, Liu Wushuang and the Wolf Cavalry reached the city first.


    Something strange happened: the south gate actually opened before everyone''s eyes.


    "Charge~~~~~" Liu Wushuang shouted in excitement.


    The wolves swarmed into Bai Huang City like a flood, unstoppable.


    "The gate is breached? How did the gate open? Can anyone tell me how the gate opened?" The officer on the city tower screamed madly. Damn it, how could such a bizarre thing happen?


    Is this even a battle?


    There were no ambushes prepared inside the city, and there weren''t many archers on the city tower.


    It wasn''t easy to climb the city tower from the outside, but once inside the city, getting up the tower was no problem at all.


    Zhao Chuan gave the order, and the troops stormed the city tower madly. In an instant, the southern city tower was overwhelmed by Zhongshan''s army.


    They had entered the city. What followed was a night of bloody ughter.


    At dawn, a handful of revitalizing sunlight pierced through from the east. After a night of fear and panic, the people of Bai Huang City finally regained calmness.


    Some cautiously ventured out to look around, only to find corpses scattered everywhere. Blood stained the ground in all directions. It had been a cruel night.


    In the mansion of the former city lord of Bai Huang City, the lord himself had long since met his end.


    Standing on the square, Zhongshan watched as his troops below gradually cleaned up. He sighed lightly. Behind him stood a figure wrapped in a ck robe, features indiscernible.


    "Dark Emperor, your concealment abilities are truly bing formidable. Since you managed to deceive A Dast time, I knew you would excel in capturing Bai Huang City this time!" Zhongshan stood with hands sped behind his back.


    "Your praise is too much, Master. My strength is insufficient to face generals, but dealing with a few gatekeepers was manageable. However, my achievements in this war for the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty are insignificant!" Dark Emperor responded immediately.


    "Heh, a war for the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty? No, my wars are fought for the Dagong Dynasty. The Twelve Cities of the Coastal Sea were, and so is Bai Huang City now. You may not understand now, but you will in time!" Zhongshan chuckled and shook his head.


    "Yes!" Dark Emperor sighed.


    "Are you leaving?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yes, that old man who taught me the art of concealment instructed me to go somewhere after his death," Dark Emperor nodded.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    "The old man told me not to tell anyone, but if Master asks..." Dark Emperor began.


    "You don''t need to tell me!" Zhongshan immediately interrupted.


    "Master?" Dark Emperor frowned slightly.


    "I don''t care what adventures you''ve had or what secrets you hold. I only know that you are still Dark Emperor, still the Chief Commander of the Shadow Guards for my Dagong Dynasty. That''s all that matters!" Zhongshan affirmed decisively.


    "Thank you, Master!" Dark Emperor expressed his gratitude.


    "Well then, off you go!" Zhongshan smiled.


    "Yes!" Dark Emperor nodded and then, in a sh, he darted into the shadows, disappearing from Zhongshan''s sight in no time.


    Dark Emperor had departed. Zhongshan''s mission continued.


    At that very moment, atop a peak in the distance from Bai Huang City, Xiao Yuanfeng stood overlooking the city. Before him knelt a fleeing officer who had escaped from Bai Huang City.


    "Zhongshan, damn you, Zhongshan!" Xiao Yuanfeng eximed angrily.


    "Marshal, we arrived just a step toote, only a step, for one night!" a general beside Xiao Yuanfengmented.


    "The Lord of Bai Huang City is utterly useless! It took just one night for it to fall? How could he be so ipetent? Useless!" another general thundered furiously.


    "It''s not that the Lord of Bai Huang City is useless. It''s that Zhongshan is too formidable. My adoptive father foresaw that he would take Bai Huang City and sent me with troops to reinforce, but even so, it was too swift. Zhongshan''s speed in attacking and seizing cities is simply too fast!" Xiao Yuanfeng sighed deeply.


    The defeated officer kneeling on the ground spoke, "Marshal, the southern gate inexplicably opened. That led to our defeat."


    "Inexplicably? Hmph, it''s because Zhongshan''s spies had infiltrated the city long ago, killed your gatekeepers, and opened the gate. The gate, the crucial point, and you let them take it so easily? A few insignificant spies managed to take it?" Xiao Yuanfeng''s eyes narrowed sharply.


    "We had numerous archers stationed at the gate; it''s impossible!" the defeated officer argued from his knees.


    "Enough! Instead of finding excuses after defeat, find reasons. You''re just useless!" Xiao Yuanfeng raged.


    The defeated officer could only fall silent.


    "Marshal, what should we do now? How do we exin this to the Grand Commander?" asked another general beside Xiao Yuanfeng.


    "Withdraw the troops. Let''s go back. I''ll handle the exnation!" Xiao Yuanfeng took a deep breath.


    "Yes!" the generals replied.


    Two yearster...


    In the Lord''s Mansion of Bai Huang City...


    Zhongshan sat at themand table with rows of generals standing respectfully before him. He looked over some letters on the table, while the generals patiently awaited.


    "Water Trace, how many troops do you have now?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Six hundred thousand!" Water Trace replied directly.


    "Oh? Five thousand less than before? Didn''t I ask you to recruit more troops? Now you have fewer?" Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Reporting to Marshal, I understand now. Quantity doesn''t equate to quality. The sixty thousand elite troops we have now are more than a match for the one million troops we had in the past." Water Trace affirmed confidently.


    Satisfied with Water Trace''s response, Zhongshan nodded approvingly.


    "Zhao Chuan, how is the situation on the Great Light front?" Zhongshan turned to Zhao Chuan.


    Seeing Zhongshan ask him, Zhao Chuan was slightly excited. He could tell that Zhongshan hadn''t overlooked him because of his ties to the Great Xuan Dynasty; instead, he was being cultivated.


    "Reporting to Marshal, in the Great Light domain, along with our forces, we have six armies in total. However, given the current situation, only four can be maintained!" Zhao Chuan reported.

 Chapter 314: The Pressure from Jin Chan

    <h4>Chapter 314: The Pressure from Jin Chan</h4>


    "Tell me more!" Zhong Shan said with a smile, looking at Zhao Chuan.


    "Our army has maintained its position consistently, that''s one front. General Shuijing''s army is gradually gaining strength, that''s another. Although General Jin Chan''s tactics are unusual, he leads a significant force, making him the third. Thest major force ismanded by General Xiang Bu of the Sixth Legion of the Da Luo Celestial Empire. The other two fronts have been repeatedly defeated and are now under General Xiang Bu''smand," Zhao Chuan reported.


    "How are the forces distributed?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "General Xiang Bumands thergest force with three million troops. General Shuijing has one and a half million, and General Jin Chan alsomands one and a half million. Our army is the smallest with just over nine hundred thousand! Although we have fewer troops, ourbat strength is notcking," Zhao Chuan analyzed.


    "It''s been two years, and apart from Baihuang City, we''ve only captured three cities. Xiao Wang''s military prowess is indeed formidable!" Zhong Shan nodded and frowned.


    "In these two years, besides General Jin Chan who has also captured three cities, General Shuijing and General Xiang Bu have only captured two cities each. We are already performing remarkably well!" Zhao Chuanughed.


    "Among the four forces, why has General Jin Chan''s army suffered the least casualties?" Zhong Shan stared at Zhao Chuan.


    "Rumor has it that General Jin Chan uses Buddhist teachings to convert the enemy," Zhao Chuan said, looking puzzled.


    "Convert? More like executing key targets! General Jin Chan''s forces are not just for war; they are also used to umte merits. With the mighty celestial dragon by his side, he can behead the enemy leaders at any time. His strategy is to position himself in a ce of moral righteousness and heavenly favor, manipting circumstances to his advantage and amassing divine merits. Truly worthy of someone from the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, he has mastered the art of umting merits to an incredible degree," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "General, are you saying that Jin Chan went to the Ancient Sacred City for the imperial examination and was then selected to lead the army with the intention of gaining merits from the Da Luo Celestial Empire''s wars?" Zhao Chuan asked in astonishment.


    "Judging by various signs, that seems to be his purpose," Zhong Shan said, nodding with a frown.


    "General, our army funds are running low," Shui Wuhen suddenly interjected.


    "Are we short on spirit stones?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, we only have a million spirit stones left, which is too few for our army!" Shui Wuhen replied.


    "Don''t worry, the funds will arrive tomorrow," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Yes!" Although Shui Wuhen was puzzled, he trusted Zhong Shan.


    Two years ago, after Daye City was looted, everything was handed over to Zhong Shan, who quickly transferred most of it to the Darong Merchant Guild to be converted into spirit stones. Now, after two years, the spirit stones were about to arrive.


    This batch of resources has also contributed to the rapid growth of the Darong Merchant Guild.


    "Report!��������������������������������������"


    A sudden report came from outside the hall, followed by a soldier rushing in quickly.


    Kneeling on one knee before Zhong Shan, the soldier said, "Reporting to the General, two men iming to be Jin Chan and the mighty celestial dragon are outside Baihuang City, requesting to see you!"


    "Whoosh!����������������������������������"


    Zhong Shan stood up, frowning. Jin Chan? The mighty celestial dragon? What are they doing here?


    "Lead the way!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" The soldier immediately responded.


    The other generals were equally surprised. Jin Chan? Why would General Jin Chane here?


    Outside the south gate, Jin Chan, dressed in a schr''s robe, stood quietly in an open area, with the mighty celestial dragon standing silently behind him.


    On the Way


    As they traveled, Zhong Shan had already reviewed the memory crystal''s projections of the two men, and naturally recognized them immediately. Leading his generals, he swiftly exited the city.


    "General Jin Chan, what wind has blown you to my little city?" Zhong Shan greeted with augh as they met.


    "Greetings, Eastern Marquis!" Jin Chan responded politely.


    "Please,e inside!" Zhong Shan gestured with a wave.


    Although the mighty celestial dragon was a peerless powerhouse, his current status was that of Jin Chan''s subordinate. Thus, it sufficed to properly receive the master.


    "After you!" Jin Chan smiled.


    With that, the group made their way into Baihuang City in grand procession.


    Inside the Pavilion


    In the lord''s mansion of Baihuang City, within a gazebo, two long tables were set with fine wine and delicacies. Zhong Shan and Jin Chan sat on their knees facing each other across the tables. Outside the pavilion, the mighty celestial dragon, A Da, Zhi Huo, and the other generals waited patiently.


    "General Jin Chan, please," Zhong Shan offered, raising a cup of wine in a toast.


    "Eastern Marquis, please," Jin Chan responded with a smile.


    "I wonder what brings General Jin Chan to my humble city today?" Zhong Shan asked, still smiling.


    "Eastern Marquis, your military prowess is astounding. In five months, you''ve captured twelve cities in Dayu, and within a month, you''ve taken both Daye City and Baihuang City. Over the past two years, you''ve seized three more fortified cities. Such unparalleled achievements are truly admirable!" Jin Chan praised.


    "Just luck. General Jin Chan, you''re too kind!" Zhong Shan shook his head modestly while keeping his eyes fixed on Jin Chan, uncertain of his true intentions.


    "General Jin Chan''smand is also widely praised. Capturing cities with minimal casualties is a feat unmatched in history. With you in the Da Luo army, how can we not conquer the entire Daguang?" Zhong Shan reciprocated the ttery. He wasn''t sure of Jin Chan''s intentions, but he could y along diplomatically. Who couldn''t?


    "Eastern Marquis, you''re too generous. I believe you can see the purpose behind my conquests, can''t you?" Jin Chan found Zhong Shan''s evasion troublesome and decided to get to the point.


    "Oh? Isn''t it to conquer Daguang for Da Luo and establish unparalleled merit?" Zhong Shan pretended not to understand.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s feigned ignorance, Jin Chan smiled and shook his head slightly. "Eastern Marquis, no need to y dumb. My purpose is solely to gather heavenly merits. I''m sure you can see that."


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. Something wasn''t right. Why was Jin Chan being so direct? Although it wasn''t a taboo topic, it wasn''t something to be stated so inly either. They both understood each other''s motives; it was enough to discuss in veiled terms and reach a tacit understanding. Why spell it out like this, especially with his own generals listening outside?


    Zhong Shan waved his hand, signaling his men to retreat. Only A Da and Zhi Huo remained, while the mighty celestial dragon stood guard outside.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s gesture, Jin Chan smiled faintly.


    "I wonder why General Jin Chan has sought me out?" Zhong Shan asked, perplexed.


    "Among the four major forces in Daguang, although your army is the smallest, your battlefield victories are the most numerous. In one order, youid waste to a million foes. Yours is a pure army of ughter," Jin Chan said, staring at Zhong Shan.


    "Uh? So what? The emperor''s orders are for us to quickly conquer and capture cities!" Zhong Shan replied with a puzzled frown.


    "Your bloodthirst is too intense, Eastern Marquis. I''d like to request that you cease hostilities for a year," Jin Chan said earnestly.


    "Brother Jin Chan, can you give me a reasonable exnation?" Zhong Shan asked, staring at Jin Chan.


    "Let me put it this way. Do you know why I am so intent on gathering merits?" Jin Chan asked, staring intently at Zhong Shan.


    "I do not!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "I am a reincarnated spirit child, meaning in my previous life I was a person from the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. The merits I am umting now serve a single purpose: to restore my past life memories using the secret arts of the Pure Land. Originally, I would have needed another three to five years to achieve this, but circumstances have forced me to expedite the process," Jin Chan exined.


    "And you''ve chosen to involve me?" Zhong Shan asked, visibly frustrated.


    "Please forgive me, Marquis of the East. Among the four armies, only your force has the heaviest aura of ughter. If you cease hostilities for a year, the reduction in carnage will allow me to gain enough merits to recover my past life memories," Jin Chan said.


    Zhong Shan remained silent for a moment.


    "Of course, topensate for your losses, I will relinquish all the cities I''ve captured to you and transfer my entire army to yourmand. Once I regain my past life memories, I will leave immediately," Jin Chan said with a smile.


    Staring at Jin Chan, Zhong Shan forced a dryugh, then took a deep breath and said, "I agree to your terms."


    "Thank you, Marquis of the East!" Jin Chan immediately stood up and bowed respectfully.


    "Heh," Zhong Shan let out another dryugh.


    After Jin Chan and the Mighty Celestial Dragon had left, Ah Da turned to Zhong Shan, puzzled.


    "Sir, why did you agree to his terms?" Ah Da asked, confused.


    "Yes, Jin Chan''s troops might not be that good, and they''ll need to be retrained and reorganized. What about your previous ns to capture the next three cities? Will they be put on hold?" Zhi Huo also asked, looking perplexed.


    "Put on hold? Then so be it. It''s only a year," Zhong Shan sighed deeply.


    "But..." Ah Da hesitated.


    "But what? We''re lucky to still be alive. Jin Chan is not someone to be taken lightly!" Zhong Shan said, ring in the direction where Jin Chan had disappeared.


    "Uh?" Ah Da and Zhi Huo were both taken aback.


    "Didn''t you see that he brought the Mighty Celestial Dragon with him? If I hadn''t agreed, he could have executed me on the spot, using ''Buddhist methods'' to eliminate me and still umte heavenly merits!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "How dare he?" Ah Da eximed in shock.


    "Why wouldn''t he dare? Kill me and then leave, heading back to the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Do you think the Da Luo Celestial Empire would march into the Pure Land for a minor official like me?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "But..." Ah Da began to protest.


    "Given the current situation, Jin Chan''s previous life must have been more than just a bodhisattva; he was likely a Buddha. The Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss would definitely protect him, and I would die in vain," Zhong Shan sighed.


    "To greet you with a smile while harboring ill intentions��people from the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss aren''t allpassionate," Zhi Huo sighed.


    "Compassionate? Hah, everyone has a heart and a nature! There are no perfect people, and there are no absolutes. Remember, anything is possible," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood," Zhi Huo replied promptly.


    "Alright, let''s head back. We need to prepare to take over Jin Chan''s cities and his army, and at the same time, we must devise a strategy to deceive Xiao Wang," Zhong Shan said thoughtfully.


    "Understood," the two of them nodded.

 Chapter 315: Past Life Memories

    <h4>Chapter 315: Past Life Memories</h4>


    A significant event had erupted on the battlefield of the Da Guang Empire!


    General Jin Chan, astonishingly, led his 1.5 million troops to defect to Marquis Zhong Shan, volunteering to be absorbed into Zhong Shan''smand. He willingly epted a subordinate position under Zhong Shan''s leadership!


    This news spread like wildfire, leaving many in a state of disbelief.


    What could this mean?


    The sesses of Jin Chan''s forces were on par with Zhong Shan''s achievements, yet he suddenly chose to be incorporated into Zhong Shan''smand willingly? Rumor had it that Jin Chan himself had initiated the request.


    Various factions, grasping at the information they had, were baffled by the situation.


    On the battlefield of the Da Guang Empire, the primary defense was led by Grand Marshal Xiao Wang.


    With Jin Chan''s defection, only three Da Luo forces remained on the offensive: Shui Jing''s, Xiang Bu''s, and Zhong Shan''s.


    The battlefield was constantly changing, but this was too abrupt.


    In Shui Jing''s stronghold:


    Mr. Shui Jing held the letter, frowning in deep thought. The two rows of generals before him were also furrowing their brows.


    "Grand Marshal, what is going on?" one of the generals asked, confused.


    "Focus on your own duties; don''t worry about the rest for now!" Mr. Shui Jingmanded.


    "Understood!" The generals, though puzzled, nodded in agreement.


    In Xiao Wang''s camp, inside arge hall:


    Xiao Wang frowned as he looked at the letter.


    There was both good news and bad news.


    The good news was that only three forces remained attacking the Da Guang Empire, allowing for more focused defenses. The bad news was that none of the enemy forces had diminished; in fact, Jin Chan''s troops had joined Zhong Shan''s already formidable army.


    In Baihuang City, within the City Lord''s residence:


    Zhong Shan sat behind hismand desk, while Jin Chan stood among the ranks of the generals, officially as a subordinate but, in reality, monitoring Zhong Shan.


    A year''s time wouldn''t be difficult for Zhong Shan to endure.


    Since he couldn''t besiege cities, he focused on reorganizing and training his troops, integrating Jin Chan''s forces, and feigning preparations for an assault.


    "Grand Marshal, ording to intelligence reports, arge number of powerful individuals have appeared within Da Guang''s territory. Among them, there are no fewer than twenty known experts of the Huangji level," Zhao Chuan reported.


    "Strong individuals gathering?" Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    "They are here for the ''Sin Demon''!" Jin Chan shook his head with a smile.


    "The Sin Demon? To eliminate it and umte merits?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Indeed!" Jin Chan replied.


    "Then why don''t you go after the Sin Demon?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Jin Chan.


    "The Sin Demon has be increasingly cunning. It can''t be found easily; pursuing it would be a waste of effort," Jin Chan said with a smile.


    "Can''t be found?" Zhong Shan frowned slightly. Last time he saw a sky full of blood clouds, it was a huge target.


    "Now, the Sin Demon can not only fly but also burrow underground, making it very hard to locate," Jin Chan exined.


    "Has the Mighty Celestial Dragon gone out searching for it?" Zhong Shan nodded in understanding.


    "Yes, it''s a thorn in his heart," Jin Chan sighed.


    Eight monthster!


    Jin Chan was still standing in the main hall of Baihuang City.


    Suddenly, Jin Chan''s eyes widened. A strong wind seemed to emanate from his side.


    His robes fluttered as if caught in an invisible gust. Jin Chan''s pupils turned golden in an instant. An overwhelming aura radiated outwards, forcing the generals to step back quickly. Ah Da immediately flew to Zhong Shan''s side, pulling him to a safer distance.


    The powerful aura surged forth from the central hall.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The central hall was violently sted open. The generals were all taken aback, unsure of what had happened to Jinchan. Only Zhongshan stood calmly in a distant pavilion, watching coldly.


    In the blink of an eye, Da Wei Tianlong swiftly flew in from outside the city, arriving atop the floating ind of the Lord''s Manor in no time.


    As the debris and smoke cleared, Jinchan''s figure slowly emerged. His appearance remained unchanged, except for a golden halo suddenly appearing behind his head��a halo of great virtue!


    Jinchan''s expression was indifferent, an aloofness befitting a superior being, as he coldly nced at the generals. Their faces froze in fear; clearly, his gaze was terrifying.


    Zhongshan had long recognized Jinchan''s strength and intentionally avoided meeting his eyes.


    "Congrattions, Venerable One!" Da Wei Tianlong offered his congrattions.


    "Hmm." Jinchan nodded.


    Step by step, Jinchan walked slowly towards Zhongshan.


    "Eight months? That''s a quarter shorter than a year. Such intense killing intent!" Jinchan eximed.


    "I greet Jinchan Buddha." Zhongshan spoke softly.


    Although Jinchan had regained memories from his past life, his full strength had not yet returned. However, with memories restored, full power would soon follow.


    "Venerable One, now that you''ve recovered, where is the Nier Mo?" Da Wei Tianlong urgently asked.


    "Nier Mo? Don''t concern yourself with Nier Mo. Come with me back to the Pure Land of Bliss, and I will grant you Buddhahood." Jinchan spoke.


    "No, Venerable One. Nier Mo has be a demon in my heart. If this demon is not eliminated, it will foster inner demons. Even if I attain Buddhahood in the future, I will struggle." Da Wei Tianlong anxiously pleaded.


    Staring at Da Wei Tianlong, Jinchan shook his head and said, "This matter is beyond my control. I don''t know where Nier Mo is."


    Upon seeing Jinchan, Da Wei Tianlong grew increasingly anxious and frustrated. He continued, "Venerable One, originally it was set for a year''s time. Now with four months left, please try your best to find him for me. If you can''t, I will have no regrets."


    Da Wei Tianlong''s plea was earnest.


    However, Jinchan shook his head. "Given the current state of the Pure Land of Bliss, I understand better than ever that time is precious. I will return immediately. If you choose not toe, find Nier Mo on your own. Once matters in the Pure Land of Bliss are settled, I will make a special effort to locate Nier Mo for you. If I cannot find him, I will still grant you Buddhahood."


    Jinchan refused to go!


    Seeing Jinchan''s stubbornness, Da Wei Tianlong, who had always shown great restraint, was now deeply conflicted. He stared, unable to unleash his anger, having protected Jinchan for many years withoutint or regret, even sacrificing opportunities to find Nier Mo. Now, with only four months left before the agreed time, Jinchan refused to help. How could Da Wei Tianlong not be infuriated?


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~"


    Da Wei Tianlong roared out the pent-up frustration in his chest, transforming his form into a colossal golden dragon, soaring into the sky.


    The dragon, Da Wei Tianlong, was indeed a true golden dragon.


    The golden dragon ascended skyward without a word of farewell, clearly driven to extreme fury. As it ascended, the defensive formation of Baihuang City exploded with a flurry of lightning.


    Countless thunderbolts relentlessly pounded down towards Da Wei Tianlong. They seemed to form a vast, enveloping the colossal dragon at its center, swiftly twisting and striking as if to grind it into nothingness.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The sky was filled with frenzied lightning, violently assaulting the golden dragon. The dragon was engulfed by countless thunderbolts, horrifyingly scorched by the thunder and fire.


    At this moment, everyone in the city looked up in awe. It was terrifying, as if it were the end of the world, with the heavens and earth copsing.


    The terrifying formation caused even Ah Da and Zhihuo by Zhongshan''s side to break out in a cold sweat. Clearly, neither of them had the courage to confront the city''s defensive array head-on.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The endless thunderbolts exploded and dispersed, and the colossal 500-meter-long golden dragon burst through the formation with a thunderous roar, flying far away!


    Zhongshan took a deep breath. "Da Wei Tianlong! So powerful!"


    Watching Da Wei Tianlong fly away, Jinchan''s expression remained unchanged, showing no hint of fear. Even so, Da Wei Tianlong''s strength did not match that of Jinchan''s recovered memories.


    "Dongfang Hou is startled!" Jinchan smiled slightly, looking at Zhongshan.


    Watching Jinchan, Zhongshan frowned slightly. Why was he still behaving like this?


    "No matter." Zhongshan shook his head with a smile.


    "I wonder what Xianren Can Nian told you back then?" Jinchan smiled and asked Zhongshan.


    Xianren Can Nian? Bao''er? The immortal who looked exactly like Bao''er? No wonder Jinchan treated him so politely.


    "He didn''t say much, just gave me a rose." Zhongshan replied.


    Jinchan smiled faintly at Zhongshan''s response and didn''t ask further. With a turn of his hand, he took out a small round token resembling a roulette wheel.


    "Now that you know her, you are also qualified to enter the Pure Land of Bliss. Ten yearster, at the ''Great Extinction Ceremony'' in the Pure Land of Bliss, I hope you can attend." Jinchan handed over the token.


    "Thank you very much!" Zhongshan epted the token, a hint of surprise shing in his eyes.


    "For allowing me to recover my memories so quickly this time, I thank you, Jinchan. These extra four months will allow me to aplish many things. Thank you!" Jinchan said.


    "You''re wee. I''ve also epted your great army!" Zhongshan replied immediately.


    "Hehe, when I say thank you, it''s something that must be said. This ''Purple Cotton Kasaya'' has been with me for many years. Through my magical refinement, it can ward off all evils, be invulnerable to water and fire, and withstand swords and des. In this battlefield within the scope of the Nier Mo''s activity, as long as you wear this Kasaya, not even Nier Mo can approach you within three yards." Jinchan handed over a Kasaya.


    The Kasaya was the same one Jinchan wore when Zhongshanst saw Xianren Can Nian.


    Looking at Jinchan, Zhongshan''s heart trembled slightly. Immediately, he said, "Thank you!"


    Zhongshan naturally epted the Kasaya with a smile.


    With a slight smile, Jinchan nodded to everyone. Then, with a light step, he disappeared! Disappeared mysteriously.


    Memory had returned, and so had the realm. Due to his powerful realm, Jinchan could now perform spells that even some Nascent Soul stage cultivators couldn''t master.


    Everyone looked at where Jinchan had disappeared, each taking a deep breath. A strong person��within such a short time, he had be so strong?


    Zhongshan looked at the Kasaya in his hand, a faint smirk appearing on his face. Jinchan had sent him a Kasaya to thank him? From the moment Zhongshan refused Da Wei Tianlong, he had already concluded that Jinchan was not as kind-hearted as he appeared. Sending him a Kasaya? If it weren''t for his acquaintance with that immortal, Jinchan probably wouldn''t have spared him a nce. Sending him a Kasaya meant there was definitely an ulterior motive.

 Chapter 316: War Seal

    <h4>Chapter 316: War Seal</h4>


    Clutching the Kasaya, Zhongshan nced at the approaching crowd and said, "Alright, everyone go about your tasks!"


    "Yes!" The generals clearly hadn''t fully recovered from their shock.


    Everything seemed too bizarre.


    "Master!" Ah Da immediately queried Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan waved his hand, halting Ah Da''s questions, signaling him to remain silent.


    Ah Da nodded understandingly.


    As he stowed away the Kasaya, Zhongshan discovered it couldn''t fit into his storage bracelet. Did it possess a treasure spirit? A ninth-grade magical treasure?


    Staring at the Kasaya, Zhongshan took a deep breath. Jinchan truly possessed immense courage��


    Six months passed. Baihuang City, within the Lord''s Manor, in the central hall.


    Zhongshan studied a map, contemting future military deployments. Outsiders were forbidden from disturbing the hall. Even Ah Da and Zhihuo stood guard at the doorway.


    "Who goes there?" A furious roar echoed outside the hall.


    "Stop!" Ah Da''s voice followed.


    Zhongshan''s thoughts were interrupted, and he frowned, ncing towards the hall''s entrance.


    Outside the hall stood ten individuals.


    Ten people dressed in various styles, none of whom Zhongshan recognized. His brow furrowed slightly. Why had Ah Da ordered the soldiers to halt?


    "Who are you?" Ah Da called out to the ten individuals.


    "Where is yourmander?" The leader among them, a burly man, demanded.


    Zhongshan lightly stepped out of the hall''s door. "I am Zhongshan. And you are?"


    With a flick of his hand, the man threw a letter.


    Ah Da reached out and caught it, then passed it to Zhongshan.


    "This is a War Seal issued by Da Wei Tianlong and fifty Emperor Extreme experts under him. Within the next five months, no one is allowed within a hundred thousand miles of Yue Ming City and Yue Xi City." The leader spoke.


    Afterwards, the ten individuals stomped their feet, transforming into shadows and departing from the Lord''s Manor.


    "What''s going on?" Zhongshan asked Ah Da.


    "Master, these ten people came in and pressured us with their momentum. I could sense they are all Emperor Extreme realm experts, so I instructed the soldiers not to act." Ah Da exined.


    "Hmm." Zhongshan nodded, looking at the ''War Seal'' in his hand.


    "Heh, such audacity, a War Seal?" Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed coldly.


    After reading it carefully, Zhongshan furrowed his brow.


    The so-called War Seal indicated that Da Wei Tianlong had gathered fifty Emperor Extreme realm experts to exterminate the Nier Mo. They nned to set a trap between Yue Ming City and Yue Xi City to lure out the Nier Mo and annihte it in one stroke. During this period, neither the armies of Da Guang nor Da Luo were permitted within a hundred thousand miles of these two cities. Furthermore, the troops within the cities had to withdraw quickly. Otherwise, Da Wei Tianlong and the Emperor Extreme experts would spare no effort in hunting down anyone who vited the War Seal.


    Fifty Emperor Extreme experts, along with Da Wei Tianlong. Such a formidable force. Even though they were gathering solely to reap the rewards of vanquishing the Nier Mo, Zhongshan realized it wasn''t a force he wanted to provoke at this moment.


    Presumably, other factions felt the same.


    The War Seal disyed such audacity! Such unreasonable dominance!


    However, dominance was only temporary. In five months, they would seek to break through!


    "Zhao Chuan!" Zhongshan called out to Zhao Chuan, who had arrived with the ten great experts.


    "Here!" Zhao Chuan promptly responded.


    "Quickly gather intelligence on Yue Ming City and Yue Xi City," Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan responded promptly.


    As Zhongshan was about to enter the main hall, Shui Wuren flew over.


    "Commander, there''s important news!" Shui Wuren eximed with a smile.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan halted, turning to face Shui Wuren.


    "Our scouts report a major victory within Da Yu Empire. Qi Tianhou ambushed and killed the Great Deer King at Bahuang City, the Chief Commander of the Northern Expedition for Da Yu Dynasty. It''s an unprecedented triumph! With the Great Deer King dead, Da Yu''s military forces are on the brink of copse, hastening their defeat," Shui Wuren reported.


    "No!" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Huh? Isn''t that good news?" Shui Wuren asked in confusion.


    "Da Yu Empire still has another formidable figure!" Zhongshan pondered aloud.


    "You mean Yi Yan?" Shui Wuren widened his eyes.


    "Commander, are you suggesting Yi Yan will be reinstated?" Shui Wuren gasped in disbelief.


    "That''s certain!" Zhongshan affirmed firmly��


    Da Yu Empire, Sky City. Inside the Imperial Pce.


    When news of defeat arrived, the entire court was stunned. Losing a city or a region wasn''t a big deal; losing ten cities and thirty regions wouldn''t be either, as all could be reconquered. Da Yu Empire had weathered such disasters before.


    But the Chief Commander of the Three Armies was in?


    It was a great humiliation, a national disgrace. Moreover, after the death of the Chief Commander, Da Yu''s military situation became immediately tense.


    The Great Deer King was dead!


    With the Chief Commander dead, how would Da Yu continue its campaign? Would they each defend independently like a pile of loose sand? Obviously not. More importantly, there was the matter of morale. Once morale faltered, it would be an immediate copse.


    Was Da Yu finished?


    In the court, a profound silence fell. The initial mourning had passed, and now everyone was contemting what to do next and how the Emperor would respond to the enemy.


    Nn Piaoxue sat upon the throne, observing his ministers below.


    "My lords, do any of you have anything to say?" Nn Piaoxue spoke solemnly.


    At this moment, an elderly-looking man stepped forward. "Your Majesty, this old minister had advised against allying with Da Guang Dynasty and attacking Da Luo Empire. I warned that it would invite disaster. But Great Deer King ignored my counsel. If only he had listened, things wouldn''t havee to this!"


    "Yes, indeed!"


    "That''s right!"


    Voices of agreement echoed throughout the court. Nn Piaoxue''s expression turned to disgust as he turned to another figure.


    "Minister Zhu, you were an ardent supporter of the Great Deer King''s policies. Care to exin?" Nn Piaoxue pointed to a minister.


    The ministers fell silent.


    "Your Majesty, the strategy was sound. My words were not wrong. The mistakey with the Great Deer King. Hecked the capability but was so determined to hold onto military power. He didn''t know his ce and took reckless risks. Your Majesty, while I supported his policies, I did not support him as themander!" Minister Zhu immediately distanced himself.


    "Yes, the Great Deer King was headstrong, leading to his own and the nation''s downfall!" another minister beside him chimed in.


    "Yes!"


    "That''s right!"


    ...The courtiers were discussing and shirking their responsibilities, constantly ming the scapegoat, the Great Deer King.


    "Enough!" Nn Piaoxue''s angry shout echoed through the hall.


    With thatmand, the courtiers fell silent.


    "A bunch of useless people!" Nn Piaoxue''s cold voice continued.


    The courtiers were as quiet as cicadas in winter.


    "Ironblood, as the Chief Commander, what do you suggest we do?" Nn Piaoxue pointed directly at Ironblood.


    Ironblood stepped forward promptly. "Your Majesty, with the Chief Commander dead and the nation in turmoil, the confidence of the defending armies is shattered. They are bound to copse immediately. To stabilize their morale andunch a counterattack, there are only two ways!"


    "Oh?" Nn Piaoxue raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    The courtiers looked on, intrigued. Two ways? There were two?


    "Firstly, let us request the reinstatement of Yi Yan as the Chief Commander of the Three Armies of Da Yu Empire. I dare guarantee that once this news spreads to all garrisons of Da Yu Empire, the morale of the defending armies will soar beyond what it was previously," Ironblood suggested confidently.


    "Yes! Yi Yan as Chief Commander, with him inmand, Da Yu will be saved immediately. We will surely sweep away all enemy forces of Da Luo," another minister quickly chimed in.


    "Yes!"


    "That''s right!"


    However, Nn Piaoxue''s expression did not look good. Summon Yi Yan?


    "Is there another way?" Nn Piaoxue asked.


    "There is another way, Your Majesty. It is for Your Majesty to personally lead the expedition. Wherever Your Majesty goes, the defending armies will be hundredfold in confidence! Our Da Yu will surely be unstoppable and reim all lost cities," Ironblood proposed straightforwardly.


    Lead the expedition personally?


    The courtiers seemed eager to agree, but as soon as the words reached their lips, they hesitated.


    Requesting Your Majesty to lead the expedition? If Your Majesty goes out and wins, it''s fine, but if there''s an unfortunate defeat, then Da Yu Empire will bepletely finished.


    Nn Piaoxue stared at Ironblood, his eyes shing with anger��


    In the evening, at Yi Yan''s residence.


    A very luxurious sedan chair, carried by thirty-two attendants, stopped at the entrance of Yi Yan''s residence.


    Ahead of the sedan chair were the Imperial Guards of Da Yu Empire, while General Ironblood stood excitedly in front.


    The steward of Yi Yan''s residence peeked out, and upon seeing this, his heart trembled in fear. A royal sedan chair? Emperor Nn?


    He waved his hand, and a servant immediately went in to report. The steward quickly approached respectfully.


    The curtain of the royal sedan chair was lifted, and Nn Piaoxue stepped out. His brows were slightly furrowed, his expression heavy with concern.


    "Yi Yan, I pay my respects to Your Majesty!" Yi Yan stepped out from inside the residence and immediately bowed respectfully.


    "No need for excessive courtesy, Yi Yan." Nn Piaoxue supported Yi Yan, who seemed as if he could be blown over by the wind at any moment.


    "Your Majesty, pleasee inside!" Yi Yan gestured for Nn Piaoxue to enter.


    "Come! We haven''t talked in a long time!" Nn Piaoxue grabbed Yi Yan''s arm as if they were old friends, supporting each other into the residence!


    Inside Yi Yan''s residence, a feast was set.


    Seated at the head of the table, Nn Piaoxue suddenly said to Yi Yan, "Yi Yan, I now appoint you as the Chief Commander of Da Yu Empire, in charge of all military authority. Defend Da Yu against all external invasions!"


    With Nn Piaoxue''s words, the hall fell silent. Even General Ironblood looked on with anticipation at Yi Yan.


    <i>Cough, cough, cough...</i>


    A series of coughs interrupted the silence, appearing extremely weak. Nn Piaoxue frowned as he looked at Ironblood, who was filled with worry.


    After a bout of coughing, Yi Yan finally calmed down. He stepped forward and bowed respectfully to Nn Piaoxue again.


    "I obey Your Majesty''smand!" Yi Yan said earnestly.

 Chapter 317: Yi Yan Returns

    <h4>Chapter 317: Yi Yan Returns</h4>


    Outside Yi Yan''s residence:


    After seeing off Nn Piaoxue, Yi Yan stood at the door for a while, took a deep breath, lightly adjusted his sleeves, and walked back inside.


    Iron Blood had been silently following Yi Yan, not saying a word until they entered the residence. Finally, Iron Blood spoke up, "General, why did you agree so readily? His Majesty has been so biased against you before. You should have considered it more carefully before agreeing. After all, you''ve endured a lot of grievances over these years."


    Yi Yan furrowed his brow and replied, "Iron Blood, we must not show disrespect to His Majesty."


    "I don''t disrespect His Majesty. It''s just that in my heart, I hold even greater respect for you, General," Iron Blood shook his head.


    "Hehe," Yi Yan smiled faintly, feeling warmth in his heart.


    "Why did I agree so readily? It''s not for His Majesty, but for thete Emperor. His Majesty''s cultivation talent surpasses his ancestors, but in terms of vision and political acumen, he is far inferior to thete Emperor. When I was at my lowest point, it was thete Emperor who helped and cared for me. Although I knew he showed me kindness, I cannot forget my sense of duty. This agreement with His Majesty is actually a response to thete Emperor," Yi Yan exined.


    "I understand," Iron Blood nodded solemnly.


    "I will immediately issue a ''decree of rewards and punishments'' to be swiftly transmitted to all officials and soldiers of Da Yu, stabilizing morale and letting everyone know that I have returned," Yi Yan continued.


    "Yes," Iron Blood responded promptly.


    "Compile all the military actions of these years, the tactics used by enemymanders, siege strategies, and the number of casualties, and report them all to me," Yi Yan instructed.


    "Yes," Iron Blood replied.


    "Also gather all the military intelligence rted to the conflicts between the Great Light Dynasty and the Great Luo Dynasty," Yi Yan added.


    "Yes!" Iron Blood affirmed eagerly.


    "And gather information on all active sects and sacred ces, any sightings or movements rted to them," Yi Yan concluded.


    "Understood!" Iron Blood responded with excitement.


    The once legendary Grand Commander had returned!


    At the battlefield of Da Guang, in the White Emperor City:


    Zhong Shan sat in the central hall, with generals lined up on both sides.


    "General, as you said, Yi Yan has returned. The situation in the Da Yu Dynasty has be uncertain once again," Shui Wuhen spoke up immediately.


    "Uncertain? Haha, Yi Yan has returned, making the situation in Da Yu even moreplex, but it''s toote!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Toote?" Shui Wuhen asked in confusion.


    "Yes, you''ll understandter. Nn Piaoxue, heh, a mediocre general spells disaster for an army, and a mediocre ruler spells disaster for a dynasty!" Zhong Shan sighed.


    "But..." Shui Wuhen frowned, wanting to say more but hesitating.


    "Alright, we''ll see about thatter. Zhao Chuan, what about the information I asked you to investigate?" Zhong Shan turned to Zhao Chuan.


    "General, about the cities of Yue Ming and Yue Xi, tworge neighboring cities, Xiao Wang has withdrawn his troops, leaving them defenseless. Moreover, these two cities are located in the center of the battlefield between the Great Luo Army and the Da Guang Army. Once the Demon n emerges, they will definitely be the focal points of contention for both sides," Zhao Chuan reported.


    "Withdrawnpletely?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, ording to the spies, each city had ten experts of the Emperor Realm supervising, but faced with the pressure from supreme experts, Xiao Wang had no choice but to withdraw his forces," Zhao Chuan exined.


    "Good! Good! Good!" Zhong Shan eximed with a slight excitement.


    "General, what should we do?" Zhao Chuan asked.


    "Quickly gather fifty thousand of our most elite archers. We''ll depart in three days," Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    "General, are we going there? What about the war decree?" Zhao Chuan expressed some concern.


    "The war decree? Hmph, I''ll take fifty thousand troops with me. Let''s see who dares to oppose me!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Huh? But there are fifty Emperor Realm experts and Da Wei Tian Long who have jointly issued the order," Zhao Chuan still worried.


    "Fifty Emperor Realm experts? Da Wei Tian Long? Haha, they wouldn''t dare. Theyck the backing of the Golden Cicada. They''re rootless. Once this is over, they''ll each go their separate ways. If they dare to cause me even the slightest trouble, they''ll be wanted throughout the Great Luo Territory! Are fifty Emperor Realm experts many?" Zhong Shanughed.


    Zhao Chuan furrowed his brow slightly.


    "But General, what exactly are we going there for this time?" Zhao Chuan asked.


    "You''ll know once we get there!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan immediately responded.


    "General, what about me?" Shui Wuhen asked with anticipation.


    "You? I have other arrangements for you!" Zhong Shan looked at Shui Wuhen.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded immediately ��


    Three dayster, Zhong Shan departed from White Emperor City with fifty thousand of the most elite archers. Every one of these archers was at least at the Golden Core stage.


    What was Zhong Shan nning to do?


    Strength!


    Zhong Shan urgently needed strength now. His cultivation at the Seventh Layer of Golden Core was inadequate, far from sufficient.


    Although his current strength allowed him to face and not be defeated by someone at the Mid-stage of Yuan Infant, it still wasn''t enough. With high rank and heavy responsibility came even greater pressure. He needed to rapidly enhance his strength.


    How to enhance his strength? Zhong Shan had a convenient method.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Robe devoured the souls of Emperor Realm experts. Rapid consumption.


    ying Emperor Realm experts. Why did Zhong Shan have the audacity and capability to do this? It was because Zhong Shan possessed another treasure, the Purple Cotton Kasaya. Zhong Shan could also infer the purpose of the Golden Cicada! If you leave behind the Purple Cotton Kasaya, then contribute more to me!


    Twenty dayster.


    Zhong Shan arrived with fifty thousand troops at a wooded area. Zhao Chuan''s military had arranged it. Ada and Zhihuo stood at Zhong Shan''s side.


    Within this wooded area, Zhong Shan''s army came to a halt.


    This was because Zhong Shan''s fifty thousand troops were blocked by a ck-robed man. This ck-robed man was the person who had previously issued a "war decree" to Zhong Shan''s army.


    The man soared in the air, coldly ring at Zhong Shan. This was themander-in-chief of an army, yet he neither epted the war decree nor came in person.


    However, thismander-in-chief was quite peculiar, wearing a kasaya? Was he a monk?


    "I don''t care who you are, get lost!" the man said coldly, his eyes fixed firmly on Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan, at the Seventh Layer of Golden Core, could see in one nce. Although he knew Ada and Zhihuo were not easy to deal with, themander-in-chief focused on the "ants" in the field. Once he grasped them, who would dare to act wildly?


    "Ignorant!" Zhong Shan snorted coldly.


    "Huh? Ignorant? I see you''re the ignorant one. In my lifetime, I''ve killed countless people, and I''ve exterminated millions in two cities. How dare you act arrogantly in front of me? You seek death!" the man snorted coldly, a sudden surge of momentum emanating.


    "Squeak~~~~~~~~"


    Fifty thousand troops, fifty thousand Pogang arrows suddenly stood up, aiming directly at the man in the sky!


    "Insolence!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "Hmph!..." The man snorted.


    At that moment, almost simultaneously, the fifty thousand archers aimed their Pogang arrows at the man and shot them all together.


    The fifty thousand Pogang arrows swiftly shot out, suddenly forming a powerful air current, surging towards the man, sealing off all his escape routes. The fifty thousand Pogang arrows seemed to transform into a massive arrow, fiercely shooting towards the man!


    At the same time, Ada and Zhihuo also acted simultaneously. Ada swung his sword, darkness enveloping the sky, a powerful ck light shing and rushing towards the man. Zhihuo punched out, the surroundings instantly turning into a fiery red sun, fiercely smashing towards the man.


    The man was momentarily stunned, realizing quickly that thismander was specifically targeting him.


    Ada and Zhihuo''s attacks seemed to block the man''s movements. The man could only dodge at the fastest speed possible.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~"


    Avoiding Ada and Zhihuo''s attacks, the man managed to evade them. However, about thirty thousand Pogang arrows shot directly onto the shield protecting the man.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The shield was shattered by the thirty thousand Pogang arrows.


    Although the Pogang arrows were blocked, the man''s face flushed red, his internal organs shaken by the heavy impact just now.


    Amidst the surging blood and energy, the fifty thousand Pogang arrows were strung again, while Ada and Zhihuo rushed towards him from left and right.


    The man could escape instantly; in a moment, no one could catch him. However, the man was unwilling to admit defeat, his face full of fierceness.


    Coincidentally, Zhong Shan was in a vulnerable position, and the enemymander seized the opportunity to capture him.


    Seeing this, the man endured Ada and Zhihuo''s attacks, swiftly moving his body, leaving behind a residual image, and at the fastest speed, rushing towards Zhong Shan. With a palm strike, a huge ck hand appeared in the void, fiercely pping towards Zhong Shan.


    In this dire situation, Ada and Zhihuo couldn''t save him in time, and the archers dared not shoot.


    As Zhong Shan was about to be injured or captured, at that moment, a strange smile appeared on Zhong Shan''s lips.


    "Hum~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    In the instant the ck hand approached, the kasaya on Zhong Shan suddenly emitted a brilliant golden light, a tremendous force violently dispersing the ck giant hand.


    "Bang~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The man was sent flying backwards.


    With arrows raining down, Ada and Zhihuo swiftly attacked. In the sky, it was instantly enveloped by a blend of ck and red aura.


    The terrifying collision of fists and punches caused the surrounding space to tremble.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~Boom~~~~~~~~Boom~~~~~~~~"


    "Boom~~~~~~~~Boom~~~~~~~~Boom~~~~~~~~"


    ... The man was indeed formidable, actually holding his own against Ada and Zhihuo. During this time, he even tried to capture Zhong Shan again, but the Purple Cotton Kasaya on Zhong Shan''s body was too powerful. A ninth-grade magic treasure like this for defense was something the man couldn''t break.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~"


    With a loud bang, Zhihuo smashed the man deep into the ground, leaving a deep pit.


    Zhihuo looked somewhat incredulously at his own fist, while the man in the deep pit suddenly felt something unusual. His whole body was boiling with blood, and in his mind, there appeared the shadow of a [***] woman. In this life-and-death struggle, he unexpectedly recalled a woman? **, endless **. ** How could he suddenly be ignited?


    This is bad, he''s been poisoned!

 Chapter 318: Follow the trend

    <h4>Chapter 318: Follow the trend</h4>


    After the man fell into the pit, Ada and Zhihuo didn''t stop to let him detoxify.


    The Red Luan Mist that could bewitch Zixun was also capable of confusing the man. Moreover, considering the several ruthless attacks heunched against Zhong Shan, each time bing more vicious, from attempts to capture to attempts to kill!


    Every time the Purple Cotton Kasaya counterattacked, Zhong Shan could release arge amount of Red Luan Mist towards the man.


    The Red Luan Mist, as it was now, had been altered by Zhong Shan until it waspletely colorless. It was no longer the conspicuous pink color from before. It had no color or smell, and even the man couldn''t immediately detect it.


    Once he did notice, however, the man was already deeply poisoned.


    As the poisoning grew deeper, Ada and Zhihuo found it increasingly easier to handle him.


    Finally, not long after, Ada and Zhihuo subdued the man.


    He waspletely limp, like a dead dog, thrown in front of Zhong Shan.


    "Commander, should we keep him for our own use?" Zhao Chuan asked with a sigh.


    "His information��over these days, you''ve been collecting it. A wicked person, thoroughly evil. Subdue him? What if he turns around and bites us one day?" Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan stepped back quietly.


    With a turn of his hand, he took out a pce from his storage bracelet.


    He tossed the man inside, closed the door, and everyone stood guard.


    Zhihuo followed Zhong Shan inside, killed the man, and extracted his primordial spirit to be devoured by the Octagonal Heaven Tail.


    Zhihuo acted swiftly, but seeing the man''s primordial spirit enter Zhong Shan''s body, he still couldn''t help but feel a chill. Yet this Zhong Shan was also incredibly strange; in an instant, he defeated that primordial spirit?


    Zhihuo didn''t know about the Octagonal Heaven Tail, but even so, it was enough to astonish him.


    It was useless; although his cultivation increased slightly, it still wasn''t enough to break through.


    However, Zhong Shan wasn''t discouraged in the slightest. There were still plenty of prey.


    After destroying the man''s body, Zhong Shan led Zhihuo out of the pce.


    "Commander!" Zhao Chuan frowned and called out.


    "Rest for two days and then find the next target!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan nodded strangely.


    Resting for two days was necessary because despite the main fight being against three Huangji Realm experts, the massive aftermath had left many archers injured. After Ada and Zhihuo retaliated against the man, they also needed two days to recuperate.


    Zhong Shan swiftly ughtered Huangji Realm experts with his army.


    Watching such amander, Zhao Chuan was already somewhat numb. Thismander was too terrifying.


    Huangji Realm experts��those were Huangji Realm experts! This is the fifth one? Why does themander want to kill them?


    Zhao Chuan could see that after subduing the Huangji Realm experts, they were taken into that pce and never came out. The pce was then stored in the storage bracelet. This meant they were deadpletely dead, even their primordial spirits were refined. Could it be that themander is refining some wicked magic treasure? But that would be too terrifying, using the primordial spirits of Huangji Realm experts?


    The fifth one.


    Finally, after devouring the primordial spirit of the fifth expert, Zhong Shan''s cultivation broke through.


    "Crackling! Crackling!..."


    Arge amount of lightning erupted from Zhong Shan''s body, the energy from the primordial spirit being devoured by the Octagonal Heaven Tail, and the small part of the energy needed by Zhong Shan being absorbed.


    He broke through. Amidst Zhong Shan''s purposeful assassinations, he finally broke through.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~"


    The lightning erupting from Zhong Shan''s body suddenly sted the entire pce to pieces. For a moment, the valley where Zhong Shan was located turned into a sea of thunder. Endless thunder and fire erupted from Zhong Shan''s body, destroying all the vegetation in the mountains.


    ADa and ZhiHuo quickly escorted the crowd, but some soldiers were inadvertently injured by the shock when Zhongshan broke through.


    "Bang~~~~~~" The lightning dissipated, revealing Zhongshan standing alone on a giant stone at the center.


    Zhongshan took another hour to recuperate.


    Golden Core Eighth Stage! He had finally broken through again, and his spiritual awareness now reached a diameter of several kilometers.


    However, Zhongshan was genuinely concerned about his progress.


    He had absorbed the souls of six Imperial Realm experts, including Wu''an, to achieve the Golden Core Eighth Stage. What next? Zhongshan felt that his breakthrough to the peak of the Golden Core Eighth Stage was still far off.


    How many more Imperial Realm experts would he need to absorb? Twenty? A hundred? How many Imperial Realm experts were left in the Four Directions for him to ughter?


    With a deep breath, Zhongshan rose lightly.


    "General!" Zhao Chuan looked at Zhongshan in surprise. He knew Zhongshan must have broken through, but what exactly was going on?


    "Well, the raids on the Imperial Realm experts will temporarilye to a close. You take the army back to guard Baihuang City and wait for my return," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan nodded with lingering doubts.


    The army left, leaving only Zhongshan, Ah Da, and Zhi Huo.


    "Congrattions, sir, on breaking through once more!" Ah Da grinned.


    "This time, it''s thanks to you and Zhi Huo!" Zhongshan chuckled.


    "You''re too modest, sir. Even without us, you could have broken through if you wanted to!" Ah Da said.


    "Now that you''ve sent the army away, what''s our next move?" Zhi Huo asked.


    "Capturing the Fiend Demon? With such a grand event, how could we let it pass? Let''s go there," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Okay!" The two nodded.


    Moon Bright City and Moon Sparse City, also known as Twin Cities in the Great Guang Empire.


    These two cities were located very close to each other, allowing mutual assistance during times of war. They were heavily fortified. Another critical point was their poption: each city had an average poption, but together they surpassed any single city in numbers. Theirbined poption was close to that of the Imperial Capital.


    In the center of the two cities was a in known as the Twin ins. It consisted mostly of small hills, more urately described as mounds.


    This was where they nned to lure the Fiend Demon.


    Every time the Fiend Demon absorbed blood, it needed a ce to refine it thoroughly. Previously, it flew high in the sky and hadrge targets, but now it hid underground, making it harder to locate.


    Thest time it disappeared, it was close to this pair of Twin Cities. In five months, it would have had enough time to refine all the blood it had previously absorbed. It was about to reappear.


    The Twin ins possessed the most abundant source of blood. However, to effectively lure the Fiend Demon, they needed to be even more cautious.


    At the center of the Twin ins, standing on a small mound, was Da Wei Tianlong, who had resumed his human form.


    He looked at the bizarre formation set up by the powerful men before him.


    It was a pentagon-shaped eerie formation with numerous indentations. Arge amount of blood flowed rapidly through these indentations, circting around the formation with a diameter of about five hundred meters. Above the formation, strands of blood mist emanated.


    This blood, collected rapidly by the powerful men, was the finest quality blood avable.


    Dragon blood! Phoenix blood! Tiger blood! And countless blood from other powerful beings. Inside, there was even blood from Da Wei Tianlong and the souls of numerous Imperial Realm experts.


    The blood, though not abundant, was of extremely high quality! Its function within the grand formation was to disseminate its scent far and wide, even beneath the earth, in hopes of catching the attention of the Fiend Demon. The powerful individuals present believed that once the Fiend Demon sensed such high-quality blood, coupled with the proximity of the Twin Cities, its limited intelligence wouldn''t resist the temptation and it would rush over at the fastest speed possible.


    On the hilltop, Da Wei Tianlong stood firm, his eyes filled with determination. The Fiend Demon!


    "Elder, will the Fiend Demone?" asked an Imperial Realm expert.


    "It will, without a doubt!" Da Wei Tianlong replied solemnly.


    "What level of strength does the Fiend Demon currently possess?" the expert inquired further.


    "After consuming blood from over a hundred million people, its strength now rivals mine. In fact, even in this battle, I''m not sure if I can survive. If any of you are afraid now, you can leave immediately!" Da Wei Tianlong spoke with a heavy tone.


    "Leave? How could that be? We came precisely for the Fiend Demon. With the Elder''s presence and our team now increased to seventy, such a formidable force, how difficult could it be to deal with a Fiend Demon? The malice from over a hundred million people''s blood��such a great opportunity to eliminate evil! Who would give up such merit? umte external virtue to aid internal virtue!" The expert smiled.


    Da Wei Tianlong nced at him with a sideways nce and said, "My level is not something you can currentlyprehend. The Fiend Demon''s strength is not inferior to mine. If you want to share in the merit, you must also survive. To stay alive, it''s best for you to form a coordinated formation during this period. Otherwise, you''ll only be sending yourself to die!"


    Hearing Da Wei Tianlong''s words, the man furrowed his brow slightly but nodded, "Thank you for the reminder!"


    The man organized the other Imperial Realm experts, while Da Wei Tianlong inserted his Zen staff into the ground and sat cross-legged, closing his eyes to await the Fiend Demon''s assault.


    Five months passed in the blink of an eye.


    In a small town near the Twin ins, Zhongshan sat in a teahouse drinking tea, apanied by Ah Da and Zhi Huo, gazing into the distance.


    "Sir, we''ve been waiting for a month already. Shouldn''t we go out and investigate?" Ah Da frowned.


    "Investigate what? Forces from various sides? Heh, those who coulde, surely havee," Zhongshan sipped his tea.


    "All of them?" Ah Da looked at Zhongshan in confusion.


    "Back then, during the battle between Nn Piaoxue and Da Wei Tianlong Bodhisattva, anyone nearby went over. But that was just a sparring match. Next, it''s a fight to the death. With the same level ofbatants, and evenrger forces, and the merits to be gained, the Twin ins may seem calm, but there''s definitely a lot brewing underneath. I''m sure Xiao Wang, Shui Jing, Xiang Bu, they''re all nearby," Zhongshan asserted.


    "Huh? Why is sir so sure they''re here too?" Ah Da furrowed his brow.


    "Because this isn''t just about dealing with a Fiend Demon anymore. This mission to eradicate the Fiend Demon is even rted to the battle situation between the Great Luo and Great Guang dynasties. If we don''t handle it well, the situation will surely change drastically," Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    "Change drastically? Sir, how does this rte to the dynastic battle?" Ah Da looked at Zhongshan in confusion.


    "This was originally a matter between the Fiend Demon and Da Wei Tianlong,pletely unrted to the two dynasties! Haven''t you seen that I didn''t let Shui Wuhenge with us?" Ah Da paused for a moment.


    "Because, beforeing out, I had already arranged the troops and prepared Shui Wuheng for the battle formation after the demon eradication. In these five months, while we appear leisurely, Shui Wuheng hasn''t rxed at all. Not only us, but Mr. Shui''s army, Mr. Xiang''s army, and Mr. Xiao''s army are all surely in frantic preparation. Once the resultse out here, it will definitely be a grand battle," Zhongshan said in a deep voice.

 Chapter 319: The Dominance of the Nether Fiend

    <h4>Chapter 319: The Dominance of the Nether Fiend</h4>


    The gathering of formidable warriors was ndestine, most lurking in the shadows of the Gemini ins. Aware of thesetent powers, the Great Dragon of Da Wei turned a blind eye; for it was the presence of many strong beings that heightened the allure for the Nether Fiend.


    Merit? What concerned the Great Dragon was the inner demons that gued one''s soul. With these demons vanquished, finding merit was trivial for one of his stature.


    The time approached, drawing nearer and nearer to the appointed hour! As it approached, tension gripped everyone tighter, suffocating the Gemini ins in anxious anticipation. When would the Nether Fiend arrive?


    At the periphery of the central formation, Da Wei Tianlong sat cross-legged, eyes closed in meditation. Behind him stood numerous peak-level experts of the realm, awaiting the arrival of the Nether Fiend.


    Suddenly, Da Wei Tianlong''s tightly shut eyes snapped open! A piercing hostility emanated from his gaze.


    To the onlookers, this sight instilled nervousness simultaneously in all. It meant that the Nether Fiend had arrived. It had truly been lured here!


    "Rumble... Rumble... Rumble..."


    The vast Gemini ins, suddenly trembled. Towns of mortals shook as if in a massive earthquake, countless houses crumbling to the ground.


    Zhongshan, apanied by Ada and Zhihuo, soared to a small mound, silently observing Da Wei Tianlong in the distance.


    Da Wei Tianlong had risen to his feet, fists clenched, eyes focused and filled with excitement.


    It had arrived, finally! The Nether Fiend had been sessfully lured out!


    Excitement and cautious vignce pervaded all the strong figures present.


    "Sir, where do you think the Nether Fiend will appear first?" Ada asked Zhongshan beside him.


    Looking around, Zhongshan pondered briefly before replying, "The Nether Fiendcks wisdom; previously, it only sought blood. But now, it can discern the quality of blood. Undoubtedly, it will seek the finest blood here on the Gemini ins. One is at the center''s blood pool formation, and the other is among all of you strong warriors. Whose blood is of the highest quality?"


    "It must be Da Wei Tianlong. He stands beside the blood pool formation, so the Nether Fiend will surely emerge there," Ada analyzed.


    After Ada spoke, Zhongshan''s pupils suddenly contracted.


    "Oh no, I''ve been careless!" Zhongshan eximed suddenly.


    Just as Ada and Zhihuo were puzzled, Zhongshan swiftly donned a monk''s robe.


    "Boom!"


    In the surroundings of Zhongshan''s hill, the mountains, forests, and earth exploded upward! Countless blood lights soared into the sky. In an instant, the realm where Zhongshan stood was dyed crimson by the blood.


    The Nether Fiend had appeared. This time, it did not emerge where Da Wei Tianlong stood but rather where Zhongshan stood. At this final moment, Zhongshan understood. On the Gemini ins, the most superior blood must have been his own.


    How careless! How could I have overlooked this crucial detail?


    Xianxian, Xianxian had once left a trace of her blood within him, forming a bond. This blood, Xianxian''s blood, was the most supreme kind on the continent. The blood of the origin! The bloodline of the Wolf Tribe''s origin!


    Sensing this, the Nether Fiend naturally surged towards Zhongshan!


    However, despite Zhongshan''s negligence, the Red Phoenix and the Pink Lotus on his forehead did not emit a blue light, indicating he could still protect himself.


    The blood, an overwhelming sea of blood, surged into the sky, enveloping everything. In an instant, Zhongshan was surrounded from all sides by a torrential sea of blood.


    The sea of blood, originally in the form of blood clouds, had now condensed into a liquid state! Torrents of blood surged forth, starting from where Zhongshan stood and spreading farther and farther.


    In the blink of an eye, it covered half of the Gemini ins! More and more experts were engulfed within, the entire Nether Fiend resembling a sea of crimson, madly corroding the powerful beings from all directions.


    The rolling sea of blood dyed the four directions red. The sky above waspletely stained by the blood sea.


    In the distance, Da Wei Tianlong and others couldn''t help but feel a slight pause. The pool of optimal blood they had prepared was unexpectedly ignored by the Nether Fiend? Could there be even more superior blood elsewhere?


    Despite their doubts, their objective had finally been achieved. As they watched more and more blood surging from underground, Da Wei Tianlong grabbed his Zen staff and charged forward.


    The experts at the peak of the Emperor Extreme Realm took a deep breath as they beheld the blood sea surging into the sky. The momentum released by the Nether Fiend was overwhelming! Truly overwhelming! This force pressed heavily on the hearts of all the experts.


    However, with Da Wei Tianlong among them, the confidence of the other warriors surged once more.


    "Everyone, form up!" one of the Emperor Extreme Realm expertsmanded.


    "Yes!" everyone nodded.


    Taking up positions in a peculiar formation, dozens of Emperor Extreme Realm experts simultaneously exerted their powers. Instantly, they were engulfed in a strong light, rendering them invisible but revealing the shapes of their weapons��giant swords, shimmering swords, each extending for kilometers.


    Following Da Wei Tianlong, with an infinitely sharp aura, they shed toward the torrential blood sea.


    Around the shimmering swords, endless sword qi seemed to form a colossal sword domain, fiercely charging at the Nether Fiend.


    Where the shimmering swords passed, it seemed as though they tore open the air, the turbulent airflow ringing across the Gemini ins.


    "Boom!"


    The swords pierced through the Nether Fiend with a resounding impact, prating its insides and wreaking havoc within.


    At the spot where the swords pierced, the blood sea churned violently, but in an instant, it returned to its original state.


    Apart from those swallowed by the blood sea, there were also warriors who voluntarily entered. Others watched from afar, unsure if they should intervene.


    The powerful warriors entered the Nether Fiend''s body. Its colossal blood sea body remained motionless, indicating an internal struggle was underway to contain the Nether Fiend.


    On the periphery, people retreated further. Even the Emperor Extreme Realm warriors dared not risk themselves against the overwhelming aura of the blood sea! The blood sea surged to the sky, its might reaching the heavens!


    Despite the retreat of countless individuals, some remained nearby, showing no fear!


    Above a small town on the Gemini ins, people fled in all directions. In an empty tavern, however, a man in a golden robe sat quietly. He watched the Nether Fiend in the distance, sipping his wine delicately, as if waiting for something.


    This man was Bai Ye, who had taken the Ninth Rank Executioner''s de from Da Ye City!


    Sitting alone, Bai Ye observed the Nether Fiend with a mocking glint in his eyes. It seemed he had another n in mind!


    Inside the blood sea,


    The moment Zhongshan was enveloped by the blood sea, the Purple Cotton Kasaya had already draped over him. The Ninth Rank Kasaya radiated a brilliant golden light.


    The moment he entered the blood sea, terrifying suction force pulled Zhongshan from all directions. However, as soon as the Kasaya''s golden light was released, the force dissipated into nothingness.


    As Golden Cicada had foretold, even the Nether Fiend was powerless against it.


    Ada and Zhihuo, sensing the terror within, swiftly flew to Zhongshan''s side.


    Within three zhangs, they were unaffected.


    Ada and Zhihuo swallowed hard, feeling the terror within the Nether Fiend''s body.


    "Ah~~~~~~"


    "Screams echoed endlessly within the blood sea, hauntingly piercing through the air. It was a harrowing sound, a testament to the excruciating pain of being drained of blood. Those with lesser strength were swiftly drained dry, their bodies reduced to powder and expelled by the Nether Fiend.


    Even for the stronger warriors, if they couldn''t resist, their fate was even more dire��they would slowly experience the depletion of their blood. It was too terrifying; there was no escape from the blood sea''s relentless onught.


    "Boom~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, a thunderous roar erupted from the Nether Fiend''s blood sea, causing the surging blood to churn even more violently. Clearly, a significant area inside had suffered a powerful blow.


    "Boom~~~~Boom~~~~Boom~~~~Boom~~~~"


    The battle intensified, and the blood sea surged more horrifically.


    The terrifying impact caused even Zhongshan, standing far away, to feel the relentless waves crashing upon him, though Ada and Zhihuo shielded him by his side.


    It was Da Wei Tianlong and the others.


    Rather than rushing forward out of curiosity, Zhongshan looked towards the blood sea, contemting how to escape.


    Watching the tumultuous blood sea, Zhongshan gave Ada a meaningful nce.


    Understanding his intent, Ada brandished his ck sword and shed wildly at the blood sea.


    "Boom~~~~"


    A streak of ck light shed as Ada unleashed his most powerful strike. Yet, it only tore a small rift that quickly closed up, rendering the attack ineffective.


    Zhongshan was trapped. Although the Purple Cotton Kasaya protected him from harm, it couldn''t alleviate the crushing pressure that confined him and his twopanions. The immense squeezing force made every step a struggle, surrounded by endless red light that seemed to imprison them.


    "Ao~~~~"


    Within the blood sea, a roar akin to a mighty dragon resonated, intensifying the turmoil.


    The screams of agony had mostly faded, indicating that most lives had been extinguished.


    "Ao~~~~"


    A stronger roar followed, emanating an overwhelming aura that surged forth. Instantly, the entire interior of the blood sea seemed hollowed out.


    The Nether Fiend''s blood sea formed apletely sealed space, zing with intense crimson light.


    For the struggling warriors, this meant even greater difficulty in movement. However, Zhongshan could now see the scene inside.


    Among the Emperor Extreme Realm experts, only thirty remained. Each struggled within the crimson glow, their eyes filled with horror. They had underestimated the Nether Fiend''s strength.


    A sword formation of over seventy people had been scattered by the Nether Fiend upon entering.


    It was too formidable! The Nether Fiend was overwhelming, ughtering indiscriminately. Even the Emperor Extreme Realm warriors couldn''t evade its aggressive blood extraction. Many were reduced to dust, their very souls shattered. It was too horrifying. Had it not been for Da Wei Tianlong''s thunderous roar that forced the blood sea open, the remaining thirty would have perished as well.

 Chapter 320: The Power of the Nine-Grade Evil Blade

    <h4>Chapter 320: The Power of the Nine-Grade Evil de</h4>


    Chapter 320: The Power of the Ninth-Grade Fiend de


    Thirty people were restrained by the crimson light, but they could still move, albeit with great difficulty.


    In the western part of the battlefield, a golden dragon red fiercely, baring its fangs and ws. Golden energy surged around it, hissing terrifyingly as it came into contact with the crimson light, as if the gold and crimson were in a heated struggle.


    The golden dragon was Da Wei Tianlong. Where Da Wei Tianlong''s gazended, the blood sea surged, gradually condensing into a bizarre ''head'' about a hundred meters in diameter. This head, connected to the blood sea, was entirely crimson with countless red veins, appearing extremely grim and terrifying.


    "Ao~~~~"


    Da Wei Tianlong roared at the blood head.


    "Ao~~~~"


    The blood head mimicked the roar.


    It mirrored Da Wei Tianlong''s dragon roar exactly. While Da Wei Tianlong''s dragon might was directed at the Nether Fiend''s blood head, the blood head roared back at the Emperor Extreme Realm experts behind Da Wei Tianlong.


    The mimicked dragon roar unleashed a super sound wave, causing the already fragile protective shields of the Emperor Extreme Realm experts to warp and distort. One expert''s shield crumbled instantly, causing him to fall back in terror. Although he quickly re-established his shield, he had already drifted perilously close to the edge of the blood sea.


    With a churn, the blood sea engulfed him instantly. He was reduced to a dry corpse in the blink of an eye, and although his soul attempted to escape, it was soon extinguished by a surge of blood.


    Everyone was chilled to the bone. Who would still dare to talk about exterminating the Nether Fiend? At this moment, besides Da Wei Tianlong, who else had the courage to propose such a thing?


    It was too terrifying. The Nether Fiend''s growth rate was unbelievably rapid. Now, even Emperor Extreme Realm experts were no match for it. If it continued growing for another six months, who in the world would be its opponent? By then, they might have to contend with the might of the heavens itself.


    One Emperor Extreme Realm expert had died so easily? The weight of this realization hung heavily in everyone''s hearts. Only Zhongshan looked regretful.


    What a waste! The Nether Fiend doesn''t even absorb souls. Give them to me! What a waste!


    However, staying here wasn''t a long-term solution. Gold Cicada had said that Zhongshan would be safe with the Purple Cotton Robe, but Zhongshan didn''t entirely trust Gold Cicada! If the Nether Fiend evolved further, Zhongshan might be fine, but what about Ah Da and Zhi Huo?


    A way out had to be found.


    What to do?


    Zhongshan''s eyes widened as his mental energy surged into his eyes.


    With a flip of his hand, he produced arge knife.


    Ah Da and Zhi Huo, though tense, were puzzled when they saw Zhongshan take out a small ''third-grade'' knife.


    The world through Zhongshan''s eyes fragmented again, revealing countless patterns, with the rules of heaven and earth intermittently appearing.


    In a determined direction, Zhongshan swung his knife, sending out a thirty-meter de aura.


    Except for Da Wei Tianlong, everyone else was maintaining their protective shields, so Zhongshan''s de light was quite conspicuous.


    Everyone looked at Zhongshan. Seeing the short thirty-meter de aura, they were puzzled. With such limited power, what could he hope to achieve?


    No one had faith in Zhongshan.


    Heaven''s Rule! Tear the Wind!


    With a sh, the surrounding air parted, and even the constraining crimson light seemed to waver in the wind.


    Ah Da and Zhi Huo were astonished, taking Zhongshan with them as they swiftly moved through the newly opened gap.


    In an instant, they teleported to the edge of the Blood Sea.


    "There''s an exit!" Everyone''s spirits soared.


    Some hesitated to assess the situation further, while others began a difficult trek towards Zhongshan.


    The imprisoning crimson light made it tough for the formidable experts of the Imperial Realm to move, but after Zhongshan''s decisive strike, Ada and Zhihu moved with unparalleled speed. It was their only chance.


    After the demonic creatures and the Great Dragon of Devastation roared at each other moments ago, they fell into a silent mental standoff, as Ada had predicted!


    "Aaaoohhh~~"


    Suddenly, both roared loudly, awakening simultaneously.


    A zing golden me erupted from the Great Dragon of Devastation, and with a flick of its tail, ten identical incarnations appeared. Its ws tore ferociously at the Blood Sea, but the formless sea mended as quickly as it was torn. Simultaneously, it fiercely counterattacked the Great Dragon and its ten avatars, radiating with red light and engulfing the Great Dragon of Devastation.


    "Rip~~"


    The terrifying pull of the Blood Sea instantly tore one of the Great Dragon of Devastation''s avatars to shreds, destroying it.


    As the Blood Sea surged, the demonic creature grew furious, sending torrents of blood in all directions, striking the experts of the Imperial Realm with destructive force once again.


    Standing at the edge of the Blood Sea, the protective shield formed by Ada and Zhihu trembled incessantly; the two had exerted their full strength. However, the bizarre interior of the demonic creature exerted an overpowering force.


    Two experts of the Imperial Realm, dignified and mighty, inexplicably turned their gaze towards Zhongshan, a mere Golden Core stage cultivator. Absurdly, their hopes now rested on Zhongshan, whom they had never been able to fathom.


    Zhongshan stared ahead; the patterns on the Blood Sea were indeed intricate.


    Finally, after several powerful waves crashed, Zhongshan seized his opportunity.


    Turning his hand, he raised his broadsword and shed fiercely.


    "Demonic Essence Purification! Fourth Stage!"


    "Sky Ripper sh!"


    Zhongshan exerted all his might, pouring nearly all his spiritual energy into the strike. A lightning bolt shed.


    "Ssshhhh~~"


    Like tearing through cloth, a massive rift suddenly appeared and began tearing further into the distance.


    The demonic creature battling the Great Dragon of Devastation froze abruptly.


    The churning Blood Sea around quieted.


    "Aaaoohhh~~"


    The demonic creature emitted a mournful cry.


    The peculiar sound made even the Great Dragon of Devastation pause, as everyone, including those left, looked towards the rift suddenly illuminated by sunlight.


    Ada and Zhihu, along with Zhongshan, swiftly dashed out.


    Several experts of the Imperial Realm near the edge, upon seeing the ray of sunlight, were so overwhelmed with excitement that tears welled in their eyes. With no other thoughts, they hurriedly rushed out.


    Zhongshan emerged, followed by four Imperial Realm experts.


    However, the true body of the demonic creature was the Blood Sea itself, a liquid entity! One major wound was insignificant; with a slight swirl, the rift vanished.


    The remaining Imperial Realm experts who hadn''t made it out couldn''t help but feel the urge to vomit blood. They had finally glimpsed a glimmer of hope, only to see it disappear again?


    The Great Dragon of Devastation and its avatars continued to frantically tear and strike within the demonic creature''s body.


    Zhongshan had emerged, followed by four Imperial Realm experts.


    Far on the outskirts of the Twin ins, observers were puzzled by the sudden appearance of several powerful figures.


    "Lucky indeed!" muttered Xiao Wang, in a remote valley far away, a hint of impatience shing in his eyes.


    Inside a tavern on the Twin ins, Bai Ye continued drinking, seemingly unaffected by the emergence of these individuals. He waited patiently.


    After emerging, Ada and Zhihu swiftly flew towards a distant mountain peak with Zhongshan in tow. Zhongshan inspected hisrge de with concern; it had almost crumbled under full force. The quality of the de was too inadequate.


    Putting away the de, he focused his mental power back into his forehead and took a deep breath. Meanwhile, the four Imperial Realm experts who had emerged with Zhongshan quickly dispersed in different directions, fleeing far away. It was too terrifying��were they still nning to eradicate the demonic creature? They might as well perish!


    "Sir, we owe you our lives!" Ada expressed deep gratitude, his eyes filled with wonder.


    Ada could discern the power of Zhongshan''s strike��it wielded the might of the Yuan Ying stage. But why? How could Zhongshan achieve what their Imperial Realm des could not? Could it be that the demonic creature intentionally eased its defenses?


    "Hmm," nodded Zhongshan without borating further, his gaze fixed on the distance.


    As for how he managed to break through, it was because Zhongshan''s strike was fundamentally different from others''. Zhongshan''s ''Sky Ripper sh'' could be considered a ''Dao'' in strict terms.


    The demonic creature''s Blood Sea was immensely vast, with a diameter of at least a hundred thousand meters. It curled up like a gigantic jelly, faintly trembling but no longer moving.


    With just this one demonic creature coiled there, who dared to provoke it?


    Everyone knew the Great Dragon of Devastation was still inside battling. Otherwise, the demonic creature would have already surged towards either Moonlight City or Moon Scant City.


    Everyone awaited the oue.


    This wait continued until dusk.


    No one grew impatient because it was the demonic creature; if it emerged victorious, it would mean it would soon attain unparalleled power. Apart from the Heavenly Dynasty''s efforts to besiege it, even an imperial dynasty would be helpless against it! If the demonic creature lost, everyone naturally expected to share in the spoils of merit!


    Just as everyone patiently awaited, a figure suddenly appeared in the distant sky. d in golden robes with a ck longsword strapped to his back, he slowly flew towards the vicinity of the demonic creature.


    "Sir, it''s Bai Ye!" immediately eximed Ada.


    Indeed, it was Bai Ye. Bai Ye approached near the demonic creature.


    Many people around didn''t recognize Bai Ye and wondered who this person was, daring to act so recklessly. Were they seeking death?


    Bai Ye halted in the high altitude not far from the demonic creature, smiling faintly.


    The demonic creature seemed to sense the threat and slowly revealed another blood head from its exterior, emitting a thunderous roar towards Bai Ye.


    "Aaaoohhh~~"


    With a roar, the blood head attempted to intimidate Bai Ye!


    Bai Ye''s expression turned cold. His right hand gripped the hilt, the de trembled slightly, and then he fiercely shed towards the demonic creature, spanning a great distance.


    There was no sword energy, no terrifying aura, just a in strike. From where Zhongshan stood, he could clearly see what that strike entailed.


    With one sh, a pitch-ck barrier suddenly appeared between heaven and earth, slicing the demonic creature cleanly in half.


    Subtle yet terrifying. It was as if a rift had cut through the entire world.


    Was this the power of the Ninth Rank Sinister de? Everyone watching gasped in awe; this was truly peerless strength, horrifying and unparalleled.


    Witnessing this scene was like witnessing a myth��too formidable.


    Those who had mocked Bai Ye before now fell silent. Indeed, everyone seemed stunned.


    Such a horrifying strike was beyond belief.

 Chapter 321: Reunion with the Zombie Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 321: Reunion with the Zombie Emperor</h4>


    "Ninth Rank?" Zhongshan inspected the protective kasaya on his body. It, too, was Ninth Rank.


    Is the Ninth Rank truly this formidable?


    "Aaaoohhh~~"


    "Aaaoohhh~~"


    Two super dragon roars echoed across thend.


    A beam of golden light shot straight into the sky as the Great Dragon of Devastation burst out of the demonic creature''s body. Its dragon scales were mostly shattered, indicating an intense battle had just transpired.


    The demonic creature was cleaved into two by a single sh?


    Indeed, it was divided into two, but the demonic creature was far from dead��barely scratched. The ck sky cleave instantly dissipated, and the halves of the demonic creature slowly came back together.


    However, the demonic creature now felt a hint of fear. Its massive blood head stared at Bai Ye, or rather, at therge ck de in Bai Ye''s hand.


    A terrifying de that posed a threat to the demonic creature.


    One sh and it split into two��Ada couldn''t achieve that, only Zhongshan''s Sky Ripper sh had such an effect, albeit with differences. Moreover, Zhongshan''s strength was far inferior.


    "Aaaoohhh~~" The demonic creature roared furiously at Bai Ye.


    "Aaaoohhh~~"


    The Great Dragon of Devastation, its dragon scales mostly shattered, raised its head and roared, then coldly stared at the demonic creature.


    Its aura erupted, forming a gust of wind that swept in all directions. The raging wind seemed to create a massive storm; some weaker individuals couldn''t even keep their eyes open.


    The three unparalleled experts locked their auras onto each other. Bai Yended slowly.


    The demonic creature also roared fiercely towards the sky.


    "Aaaoohhh~~"


    Just as the Great Dragon of Devastation was about to dive down, it suddenly paused. With that pause, the storm around them abruptly ceased, and the once storm-tossednd fell silent. The storm dissipated, allowing everyone to see clearly again.


    Bai Ye, who had just shed the ck sky cleave, now knelt on one knee, leaning on his de.


    Kneeling? Everyone seemed dumbfounded. Was this peerless expert really kneeling? It was as if he was weing someone.


    Who was he weing?


    Watching Bai Ye, Zhongshan''s heart tightened as he immediately guessed who it might be.


    "Sir!" Ada pointed towards the distance.


    Zhongshan squinted and saw another figure suddenly appear above the Great Dragon of Devastation''s head.


    A man in a ck magnificent robe, crowned with a royal headdress, stood on the Great Dragon of Devastation''s head. The Great Dragon of Devastation writhed madly; its golden mes erupted endlessly, staining the sky with a golden hue, as if indignant and trying to shake off this audacious person.


    However, who could silently ascend to stand on the Great Dragon of Devastation''s head? The Great Dragon''s frenzied movements couldn''t shake the man.


    With a light step, the man seemed to bear the force of billions. The Great Dragon of Devastation twisted and struggled but couldn''t move under the suppression. The infinite golden mes were also suppressed back into the Great Dragon of Devastation''s body. The Great Dragon of Devastation''s eyes widened in disbelief, evidently not believing what had suddenly descended upon it.


    "Too powerful! He effortlessly subdued the Great Dragon of Devastation?"


    "It''s him!"


    Zhongshan''s eyes widened, and he took a deep breath.


    The Zombie Emperor!


    The one who was once sealed by Mo Yu''s talisman in Daxin City?


    No wonder Bai Ye kneeled down. Bai Ye was waiting for the Emperor to descend?


    In the distance, more than a hundred guards��no, they were the zombie guards of the ancient Daxin City��surrounded a massive dragon carriage. This dragon carriage was indeed real, towering over a hundred zhang in height, with sharp edges on all sides, emitting dazzling multicolored lights that were blinding. Most importantly, in front of this dragon carriage, three massive divine dragons were pulling it slowly through the air.


    Three majestic divine dragons pulling the dragon carriage, gradually flying closer.


    The Great Dragon of Devastation couldn''t move under the suppression of the Zombie Emperor, its eyes bulging in disbelief as it saw the dragon carriage. It was filled with an inexplicable terror.


    "There''s still one dragon missing from the carriage, go!" Finally, the Zombie Emperor spoke.


    Although the Emperor''s voice wasn''t loud, it seemed to reach everyone''s ears as if with supreme authority. A transcendent aura permeated from his voice, making everyone feel an overwhelming urge to kneel and submit.


    No one could muster resistance!


    Too powerful! Just his voice alone seemed to wield supreme authority!


    The Great Dragon of Devastation struggled to resist!


    With a step from the Emperor...


    "Aaaoohhh~~" The Great Dragon of Devastation let out a mournful cry.


    Was this still a peerless expert of the Divine Land?


    Under the control of the Emperor, the Great Dragon of Devastation flew towards the other three dragons.


    The guards quickly ced reins on the Great Dragon of Devastation, imprisoning it in front of the dragon carriage to be the fourth divine dragon pulling it.


    This scene overturned everyone''s understanding. Countless people were stunned in an instant.


    A sense of inexplicable sorrow spread among most people. The peerless expert, the Great Dragon of Devastation, in the face of this stranger, could only be imprisoned and humiliated by pulling a carriage?


    Too powerful!


    This man is too abnormal!


    The Zombie Emperor is too domineering!


    Bai Ye knelt on one knee, showing utmost respect, while the demonic creature seemed to sense an infinite threat and slowly submerged its body underground, attempting to escape.


    Escape? It depends on the asion and the opponent. When facing Bai Ye, even though he wielded the Ninth Rank Cmity de, the demonic creature could still rage, escape, and even fight back. But in front of the Zombie Emperor?


    Half of the demonic creature''s body disappeared underground, ready to flee at any moment.


    At this moment, the Zombie Emperor looked down and gazed at the demonic creature.


    The Emperor''s eyes narrowed.


    "Boom~~"


    Invisibly, an overwhelming force erupted, violently pulling the demonic creature out from underground, and as if immobilized, it was drawn into the sky and brought before the Zombie Emperor.


    "Wuwuwu~~"


    The demonic creature emitted fearful cries, its liquid-like body churning and surging in an attempt to escape. Though not highly intelligent, fear still gripped it tightly.


    However, what can fear achieve? Would the Zombie Sovereign care about its fear? He simply stretched out his right hand and grabbed the air.


    "Screech������������������������������������������"


    Amidst the demon''s screams, a massive amount of ck qi gushed out of its body, dispersing into the surroundings. In an instant, only a mass of the most refined blood remained floating in the air.


    The Zombie Sovereign slightly raised his head.


    Everyone witnessed an unforgettable scene: the previously domineering demon was instantly refined into a mass of blood, which then slowly drifted towards the Zombie Sovereign. The blood was absorbed through his nostrils, flowing in like smoke and instantly being taken in by him.


    The once powerful demon was now absorbed as nourishment?


    Can such power still be described as that of a strong person? Such might is beyond the scope of mere strength.


    Everyone was too terrified to breathe deeply; it was too monstrous!


    It was simply too monstrous! Could such power even belong to a human?


    After absorbing the demon''s blood, the Zombie Sovereign turned and entered the dragon chariot.


    As he entered the chariot, everyone felt a significant decrease in the pressure weighing on them, but they still did not dare to breathe freely.


    Bai Ye flew into the sky, positioning himself beside the dragon chariot.


    The guards guided the four dragons, turning them towards the northwest and flying away slowly.


    Although the ceremonial procession was notrge, really notrge at all, the disy was overwhelmingly powerful. Even with thousands or millions of people, such a disy would pale inparison to this scene.


    After the Zombie Sovereign left, everyone dared to breathe, but they remained silent for a long time. No one spoke, and the surroundings were still eerily quiet. The scenes they had just witnessed were hard to digest.


    Too powerful!


    Where did the Zombie Sovereign go? Who would dare to look? Who would dare to follow?


    The demon, a force that had left everyone helpless and was incredibly domineering, was merely a supplement in front of that man. The absolute powerhouse Dawei Tianlong, also unable to move, was eventually taken as a dragon pulling the chariot.


    Too overwhelming! Although the Zombie Sovereign did nothing to anyone else, his presence alone was overwhelmingly intimidating!


    He was unstoppable! No one in his presence dared to have any thoughts of resistance.


    "Sir!" Ah Da eximed, letting out a long breath.


    "Sovereign? Is the Sovereign of Da Luo Heaven also this powerful?" Zhong Shan asked, taking a deep breath.


    "I have never seen the Sovereign in action, and even the Zombie Sovereign didn''t really act just now. But I can be certain that the Sovereign''s power is at least at this level," Ah Da replied heavily.


    "Hmm." Zhong Shan nodded.


    When would he be such a formidable Sovereign?


    The powerful beings from all directions retreated. When the Sovereign arrived earlier, the oppressive heavenly might made everyone hold their breath, unable to move. Under such pressure, who could use memory crystals? Therefore, the news could only be passed on orally in the future.


    A supreme powerhouse re-emerges on the Divine Continent. This event will surely be widely circted from today onward.


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes, reflecting quietly, analyzing in his mind. Bai Ye took the Nine-grade Demonic de, separating the demon and Dawei Tianlong at a specific time?


    From the scant information, Zhong Shan concluded that Bai Ye returned to retrieve the Nine-grade Demonic de, found the demon, notified the Zombie Sovereign, and kept watch over the demon. When the Zombie Sovereign arrived, Bai Ye, knowing the situation, separated Dawei Tianlong from the demon and awaited the Zombie Sovereign''s judgment, leading to the scene just now, collecting the demon and returning.


    The Divine Continent has too many powerful beings!


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath, looked around, and then at Ah Da and Chi Huo, saying, "Alright, that realm is not something we can engage with now. Let''s first settle the Daguang battlefield!"


    "Yes!" Ah Da and Chi Huo responded.


    "Sir, should we inform Shuijing and Xiang Bu?" Ah Da asked.


    "No need, they must have already left to prepare for battle. We need to head back quickly as well!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes! We will return to Baihuang City right away!" Ah Da said immediately.


    Zhong Shan smiled slightly at Ah Da, saying, "We''re not going there. I''ve already given Baihuang City to Xiao Wang."


    "Uh?" Ah Da was stunned.

 Chapter 322: A Cup of Clear Tea

    <h4>Chapter 322: A Cup of Clear Tea</h4>


    A month and a halfter, Zhong Shan, Ah Da, and Zhi Huo found themselves standing before the gates of a grand city. Gazing up at the two characters etched above the city gate, "Guang Hui" (Radiance), Ah Da couldn''t suppress his disbelief.


    "Guang Hui City? This is one of the major strongholds, a city that was under Xiao Wang''s control. How could it be ours now? Did Master really manage to conquer this impregnable fortress within these past six months?"


    At that moment, the gates of Guang Hui City swung open with a resounding creak. Out strode Shui Wuhen and Zhao Chuan, nked by two rows ofmanders.


    "Wee back, Grand Marshal!" Themanders chorused in unison, their voices brimming with excitement. Shui Wuhen''s face was still flushed with the thrill of victory.


    Zhao Chuan''s eyes were filled with admiration and awe.


    "Let''s discuss this inside," Zhong Shan said curtly.


    "Yes, sir!" themanders responded in unison.


    Ah Da was left astonished, stealing a nce at Shui Wuhen in sheer surprise. They had actually taken Guang Hui City?


    In the City Lord''s mansion of Guang Hui City, Zhong Shan sat at the marshal''s desk, listening to his officers report the battle oues.


    "Grand Marshal, all three cities have been secured!" Shui Wuhen eximed, his voice trembling with excitement.


    "You''ve worked hard these past months," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "It was no trouble at all!" Shui Wuhen quickly shook his head, his expression one of earnestness.


    "Grand Marshal, how did you know that the defenses of these three cities would be sox?" Zhao Chuan finally couldn''t contain his curiosity any longer.


    ncing at Zhao Chuan, Zhong Shan smiled slightly but didn''t respond directly. Instead, he gestured for Shui Wuhen to exin, clearly intending to develop his subordinate''s capabilities.


    "Because after the Demonic Incident, Yue Ming City and Yue Xi City became defenseless targets. They were bound to be the focal points of contention between the armies on both sides," Shui Wuhen exined.


    "Eh?" Zhao Chuan looked puzzled.


    "To capture Yue Ming City and Yue Xi City, a significant force would be needed. Once Da Luo''s three armies moved out, their main strongholds would be left vulnerable. Mister Zhong predicted that Xiao Wang, in order to secure a greater advantage, would abandon these two minor cities and instead attack our strongholds, thinking our troops had been dispatched," Shui Wuhen continued.


    "So, Xiao Wang just abandoned Yue Ming and Yue Xi?" Zhao Chuan asked, still incredulous.


    "Yes, he abandoned them. In doing so, Xiao Wang gained much more. At the very least, he managed to capture our Bai Huang City. Xiang Bu lost at least two of his cities. As for Shui Jing, his forces were too far away to swiftly take Xiao Wang''s cities as we did. So, Shui Jing likely remained inactive, leading to Xiao Wang''s failure to gain any substantial advantage. Shui Jing lost nothing, nor did he gain anything," Zhong Shan said with a confident smile.


    "Grand Marshal, how did you foresee all of this?" Shui Wuhen asked in amazement.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at Shui Wuhen with a hint of curiosity.


    "I sent scouts to monitor the movements of the armies. Shui Jing''s cities remain untouched, and Xiang Bu''s forces moved out three months ago," Shui Wuhen reported.


    "Just wait and see," Zhong Shan replied, nodding with a knowing smile.


    "Yes, sir!" themanders echoed.


    "Grand Marshal, someone hase to see you in Guang Hui City. I''ve directed him to the side hall," Shui Wuhen said.


    "Oh? Who is it?" Zhong Shan asked, his brows furrowing slightly.


    "He refused to reveal his identity," Shui Wuhen replied.


    Hearing Shui Wuhen''s words, Zhong Shan''s eyebrows arched. Someone who couldmand Shui Wuhen''s discretion must wield significant power.


    "Very well, you are all dismissed," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, sir!" Themanders respectfully took their leave, filing out one by one.


    Zhong Shan rose from his seat and made his way toward the side hall. Outside, Ah Da and Zhi Huo stood vigntly by the doors. Inside the grand hall, a massive jade table dominated the center, its surface intricately carved with a detailed map of the surrounding territories.


    Standing before the map, her back to the door, was a tall, slender woman in white robes, her posture graceful andposed. She waspletely engrossed in studying the map. Beside her stood a man in ck attire, Ah Er.


    As soon as Ah Er saw Zhong Shan enter, he made to speak, but Zhong Shan waved his hand to silence him. Understanding the unspokenmand, Ah Er nodded and quietly exited the hall.


    Observing the woman''s focused silhouette, Zhong Shan''s lips curled into a gentle smile. It was Princess Qianyou!


    Although engrossed in the map, Princess Qianyou was keenly aware of Zhong Shan''s presence from the moment he returned to Guang Hui City. Her heart was filled with a blend of excitement and longing. After years of separation, she had often imagined what she would say to him when they finally met again, how she would express her deep yearning.


    However, as the moment of reunion approached, this brilliant and insightful princess suddenly found herself bereft of her usual cleverness. The once resourceful Princess Qianyou now found herself without words, her heart filled with an inexplicable blend of eagerness and trepidation. She longed to see him but hesitated to face him.


    Her emotions in turmoil, Princess Qianyou could only pull out the map and pretend to analyze it. Yet, her mind was far from the map; all her thoughts were focused on the person standing behind her. Nervousness began to creep into her heart.


    It seemed as if Zhong Shan could sense Princess Qianyou''s state of mind. From the moment he saw her, a soft smile never left his lips, as if he had forgotten how to change his expression.


    Instead of approaching her directly, Zhong Shan walked over to a chair where Princess Qianyou had been sitting earlier. He picked up a nearby teapot and poured a cup of tea. Holding the tea cup, he walked over to Princess Qianyou.


    "Princess," Zhong Shan called out softly, his tone gentle.


    Startled, Princess Qianyou turned around to face him. As their eyes met, she felt a sudden rush of emotion and quickly looked away, flustered.


    "I... I''ve been waiting for you for a month!" she blurted out, the words she had rehearsed a thousand times failing her in the end, reduced to a simple, ineffectual statement.


    But this in admission touched Zhong Shan''s heart deeply, filling him with a warm sense of affection.


    "Thank you for your patience," he said, offering the cup of tea to her.


    Princess Qianyou epted the tea, her initial fluster giving way to a calm and confident demeanor once more.


    "Is this how you wee me?" she teased with a yful smile.


    "A cup of clear tea, to savor and enjoy. The tea floats in the water, just as thoughts dwell in the heart," Zhong Shan replied softly.


    Hearing his words, Princess Qianyou''s face flushed slightly, and she nodded gently. "Yes," she murmured.


    Years of longing and countless unspoken words were captured in that single sentence. The bitterness of the tea mingled with the sweetness of the reunion. No grand derations were needed, no overused expressions of love; a simple cup of tea conveyed more than any words ever could.


    The two did not dwell on their years of separation. In that moment, their presence before each other was enough. Love was something to be felt, a kind of yearning, a steadfastness, a profound state of being.


    Silence spoke louder than words, and every unsaid word was filled with emotion.


    Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou sat down and shared their stories, recounting the challenges they had faced and how they had ovee them. Zhong Shan did most of the talking, while Princess Qianyou listened quietly, attentively. Even though she might have already known many of these things through her own channels, hearing them from Zhong Shan himself made all the difference.


    Ah Da and Ah Er stood guard outside the hall, while Zhi Huo had already returned to rest. No one dared to disturb them.


    "You''ve reached the Huang Ji Realm?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Princess Qianyou.


    "Yes, the Huang Ji Realm. It seems powerful, butpared to that zombie sovereign you encountered a while ago, it''s really..." Princess Qianyou shook her head, a hint of mncholy in her voice.


    "Are you sighing already? What should I say then?" Zhong Shan chuckled.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s self-deprecating remark, Princess Qianyou covered her mouth, breaking into a gentle, silentugh.


    "By the way, you mentioned earlier that the sovereign had given you ten challenges, and I helped you solve the two regarding the ant threading the needle and transforming Dan into a Yuan Dan. What reward did the sovereign give you forpleting them?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Well, the sovereign had said that I could choose a treasure from his treasury," Princess Qianyou replied.


    "A treasure? The sovereign''s treasury must be filled with priceless artifacts. I bet you were overwhelmed with choices!" Zhong Shan joked.


    "There were many treasures, including more than ten Ninth-Grade artifacts. But no, I wasn''t overwhelmed," Princess Qianyou shook her head with a serene smile.


    "Oh? With more than ten Ninth-Grade artifacts? And you weren''t overwhelmed? You must have chosen the best one," Zhong Shan guessed.


    "No, I chose an Eighth-Grade artifact," Princess Qianyou said.


    "An Eighth-Grade artifact?" Zhong Shan was slightly puzzled.


    With a flick of her wrist, Princess Qianyou produced a small box and handed it to Zhong Shan.


    Curiosity piqued, Zhong Shan opened the box to reveal an incredibly thin vest, as delicate as a cicada''s wing. Gently lifting it out, he saw that it was nearly transparent, emitting a faint rainbow hue.


    "This is the ''Liuli Heart-Guard,'' an Eighth-Grade artifact. Worn close to the skin, it bes invisible and offers no offensive capabilities. However, it provides exceptional protection for the upper body, especially around the Zifu, the vital area. It''s virtually impervious to attacks except from someone as powerful as the sovereign himself. For those below the Integration Stage, the Zifu is crucial. If it''s destroyed, they''re finished. I don''t need it anymore, but you, in your current Jindan Stage, need to protect your Zifu the most..." Princess Qianyou exined.


    Holding the delicate vest, Zhong Shan looked at Princess Qianyou, not expressing his gratitude in words, for none were needed. He simply nodded, his heart warmed by her thoughtfulness.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s reaction, Princess Qianyou''s smile grew even more content.


    A monthter, in the central hall of the City Lord''s mansion in Guang Hui City, Zhong Shan sat at the marshal''s desk while Shui Wuhen reported thetest news.


    "Grand Marshal, just as we predicted, Xiang Bu has captured Yue Ming City and Yue Xi City, but he lost three of his own cities to Xiao Wang. Shui Jing''s territories remainrgely unchanged," Shui Wuhen reported.


    "With Bai Huang City included, Xiao Wang has gained a total of four cities, while we have lost three. In the grand scheme, he''s still one city ahead," Zhong Shan said, frowning.


    "No, Grand Marshal, Yue Ming City and Yue Xi City shouldn''t be included in Xiao Wang''s count. In reality, he has lost five cities," Shui Wuhen corrected.


    "Yue Ming City and Yue Xi City? They''re in Xiang Bu''s hands now, but looking at the current military deployment, their true ownership remains uncertain," Zhong Shan remarked, shaking his head.


    "Oh," Shui Wuhen nodded, clearly still grappling with theplexities of the situation.


    "Grand Marshal, we have news from Da Yu. After Yi Yan tookmand of the three armies, stability has been restored in Da Yu. The various factions, including Qi Tianhou, have been unable to make any further advances," Zhao Chuan reported promptly.


    "It''s been more than half a year, and Yi Yan hasn''t reimed a single city?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    "No, consolidating military morale is no simple task. Achieving stability in the ranks within half a year is already a significant aplishment," Zhao Chuan said with a smile.


    "Bring me all records of Yi Yan''s actions and strategies over this period!" Zhong Shan ordered with a frown.


    Consolidating military morale? Zhong Shan doubted that exnation. He had seen Yi Yan''s influence in the Da Yu Empire firsthand. From the moment Yi Yan took office, a single letter to each city should have sufficed to stabilize the military''s resolve. Why would it take half a year?

 Chapter 323: The Bet on the Snowy Peak

    <h4>Chapter 323: The Bet on the Snowy Peak</h4>


    Glorious City! On the floating ind of the City Lord''s mansion, there stood a serene pavilion.


    In the pavilion, Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou were enjoying a quiet moment with tea.


    "Have you figured anything out?" Princess Qianyou asked with a smile.


    Furrowing his brows, Zhong Shan pondered for a moment before replying, "Yi Yan wouldn''t forgo capturing even a single city. Feigning incapacity while concealing ability, Yi Yan surely has grand ns."


    "A grand n? An alliance?" Princess Qianyou queried with a lighthearted smile.


    "Princess, you see things so clearly," Zhong Shan replied, smiling.


    "There''s no need to tter me. I assume you''ve already guessed his intentions?" Princess Qianyou asked with a knowing look.


    "Indeed. If my assumptions are correct, it won''t be long before the Great Light Dynasty and the Great Yu Dynasty begin a desperate, frenzied attack," Zhong Shan mused.


    "Desperate? What kind of analogy is that?" Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    "The grand marshals of the two dynasties will convene, and their troops will scatter to besiege cities, leaving ourmanders with no time to disrupt them," Zhong Shan stated with unwavering certainty.


    "Are you so sure?" Princess Qianyou inquired.


    "Absolutely. If I were Yi Yan, in such a situation, I would form an alliance with external reinforcements, and the only one likely to ally with the Great Yu Dynasty is the Great Light Dynasty!" Zhong Shan exined.


    "But why do the grand marshals need to meet? They could just send letters," Princess Qianyou questioned.


    "No, they must meet in person. On one hand, it''s for making promises; on the other, I believe they will use this time to establish a ''war signal''," Zhong Shan borated.


    "A war signal?" Princess Qianyou was slightly puzzled. Although she was incredibly wise, she wasn''t as adept at military strategy. It was simr to how a brilliant scientist might not excel in politics.


    "The so-called war signal is a prearranged code that both parties understand. In the future, based on Yi Yan''s troop movements along routes known to the world, Xiao Wang would receive implicit signals on how to coordinate. This requires both grand marshals to possess extraordinary intelligence to cooperate wlessly. Through such signals, they couldmunicate strategically during battles, amplifying theirbined military power exponentially," Zhong Shan exined.


    "This sounds very challenging!" Princess Qianyou thought for a moment.


    "Exactly. That''s why I need to leave for a while, and I need you to do me a favor!" Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    "You''re leaving? What kind of favor?" Princess Qianyou asked, intrigued.


    "I need you to takemand of Glorious City!" Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    "Me?" Princess Qianyou was puzzled.


    "Yes, during this period, Xiao Wang will surely send troops to probe us, testing our defenses to determine if I am still in Glorious City. Shui Wuhen is wise butcks the ability to oversee the entire situation and tends to make mistakes. But you are different; your capability reassures me. With you here, Xiao Wang will be unable to discern anything!" Zhong Shan asserted confidently.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s praise, Princess Qianyou felt a warm surge of joy in her heart.


    "So, you want me to impersonate you?" Princess Qianyou asked with a smile.


    "Yes, you will pretend to be me!" Zhong Shan also smiled.


    Two monthster.


    Within the territory of the Great Yu Dynasty, atop a snow-capped mountain peak, there stood a brand-new pavilion. Surrounding the pavilion, an array had been set up to create a warm environment, allowing abundant green grass and flowers to bloom within. The howling winds and biting cold of the mountain peak were effectively kept at bay by the array, making it extraordinarilyfortable.


    Inside the pavilion, Zhong Shan sat at a stone table, sipping a fine wine.


    Standing nearby were Ah Da and Zhi Huo, ever watchful.


    "Sir, will it suffice to send the letter to Jing City? Will Yi Yan really pass through there?" Ah Da asked, puzzled.


    "It will suffice. Once he sees the letter, he will surelye," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "But what if he brings troops with him? How should we respond?" Ah Da inquired with concern.


    "Head to the northeast, about ten thousand miles away, to the Red Mountain. If he brings an army, he''ll surelye from that direction. Although I doubt he will, it''s wise to be cautious. Stay there, and if you see arge force, rush back to inform me immediately," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood!" Ah Da responded promptly and swiftly flew away.


    Great Yu Dynasty, Jing City!


    The Ironblood General of the Great Yu Dynasty flew ahead to clear the way, apanied by a procession of cultivators at the Nascent Soul stage and above. They carried a pnquin as they entered Jing City.


    Upon reaching the floating ind of the City Lord''s mansion:


    "Ironblood General, you''ve reallye? Is it truly the Grand Marshal?" The City Lord of Jing City hurried over.


    "Uh? How do you know it''s the Grand Marshal?" The Ironblood General red.


    "Reporting to the General, a man in ck delivered a letter earlier, stating that the Grand Marshal wasing and asked me to hand it over to him," the City Lord exined anxiously.


    "Who was it?" The Ironblood General demanded, eyes wide.


    "I''m not sure, but the man''s cultivation was very strong, likely at the Imperial Extreme level," the City Lord replied, quickly presenting a letter.


    On the outside of the letter, it read ''For Yi Yan''s Eyes Only.''


    "Fearing the matter was serious, I dared not open it. I leave it to you, General," the City Lord said, trembling.


    The Ironblood General nced at the letter and then at the pnquin nearby before approaching it.


    "Grand Marshal!" he called out to the upant of the pnquin.


    "Have we arrived?" Yi Yan''s voice came from within.


    "Grand Marshal, someone delivered a letter earlier, saying it was for you," the Ironblood General reported.


    "Oh?" Yi Yan''s voice carried a hint of curiosity.


    The Ironblood General handed the letter inside and waited by the pnquin.


    "Hahaha, well done, Zhong Shan! You actually managed to deceive both Xiao Wang and me!" Yi Yan''s voice betrayed a trace of a bitter smile.


    "Grand Marshal!" The Ironblood General''s eyes widened in surprise. Zhong Shan? Was this letter from him?


    "All right, Ironblood, no need for me to get down. Carry the pnquin east, a hundred thousand miles. I have an appointment to keep!" Yi Yanmanded from within.


    "Grand Marshal, should we bring troops?" The Ironblood General asked, frowning.


    "No need. Since he is hosting a banquet, he must have considered everything. Let''s go!" Yi Yan responded in a deep voice.


    "Yes, sir!" The Ironblood General replied immediately.


    On the Snowy Peak, Three Days Later


    Zhong Shan sat at the peak of the snow-covered mountain, waiting for Yi Yan to arrive.


    "Will Yi Yane?" Zhi Huo asked anxiously.


    "He wille!" Zhong Shan responded confidently.


    "Look, he''s really here!" Zhi Huo, with his keen eyesight, spotted a cluster of dark dots quickly approaching from the distance.


    Zhong Shan stood up as Zhi Huo swiftly arranged a fresh banquet table.


    As they drew closer, the Ironblood General led a ceremonial procession, escorting a pnquin as they flew in.


    "Wee, Mr. Yi Yan!" Zhong Shan called out in a loud voice.


    The Ironblood General red coldly at Zhong Shan, standing before the pnquin.


    The curtains of the pnquin slowly opened, and Yi Yan gently poked his head out.


    "Mr. Zhong Shan, it''s been a while," Yi Yan replied in kind.


    Ironblood carefully supported Yi Yan as he settled into the pavilion.


    On the stone table, there were only two sets of chopsticks and bowls, a detail Yi Yan immediately understood.


    "Withdraw," Yi Yan said softly.


    "Zhi Huo, you too," Zhong Shan instructed.


    Ironblood nced at Zhong Shan, then at Zhi Huo, his brow furrowed in suspicion. Despite his reservations, he led the ceremonial guards to a distant peak. Zhi Huo, too, retreated to another far-off mountain.


    Now, only Zhong Shan and Yi Yan remained atop the snowy peak.


    "Mr. Yi Yan, you once extended your hospitality to me. It is only proper that I reciprocate with an invitation. I hope you won''t take offense," Zhong Shan gestured courteously.


    Following Zhong Shan''s gesture, Yi Yan gracefully took a seat and replied, "Not at all. An invitation from Mr. Zhong Shan is an honor I dare not refuse."


    Zhong Shan sat down, and the two men shared a drink.


    "It was a shame that you didn''t stay in the Sky Cityst time, Mr. Zhong Shan. I had to manage affairs myself and lead troops into battle," Yi Yan remarked with a chuckle.


    "Mr. Yi Yan, you tter me. In the Great Yu Dynasty, no one can rece you," Zhong Shan responded.


    "Haha, I wonder what brings you to invite me here today, Mr. Zhong Shan?" Yi Yan asked.


    "I''vee to discuss the fate of our three dynasties and the future paths for both of us," Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    Setting his cup down gently, Yi Yan smiled slightly, "Does that mean you''re willing to relinquish your position in the Great Luo Dynasty?"


    "Haha, you jest, Mr. Yi Yan!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "I once said that if you were willing to join the Great Yu Dynasty, I would give you the position of Grand Marshal and help you quickly win over the hearts of our rulers and ministers. But seeing your current achievements makes me feel ashamed," Yi Yan smiled.


    "Since you''re aware of that, let''s dispense with the pleasantries and speak frankly. We both know the current situation clearly enough to not waste time with idle talk," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Oh? Mr. Zhong Shan, please proceed," Yi Yan said.


    "How much longer do you think the Great Yu Dynasty can survive? Have you ever considered that, Mr. Yi Yan?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Of course, it willst for thousands of years!" Yi Yan responded immediately.


    "Haha, but how much longer do you have left, Mr. Yi Yan?" Zhong Shan stared intently at Yi Yan.


    Yi Yan''s pupils contracted at Zhong Shan''s words, "What does that have to do with me?"


    "No need to conceal it, Mr. Yi Yan. The longevity of the Great Yu Dynasty is directly tied to yours. Am I wrong?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "Not necessarily!" Yi Yan shook his head.


    "Perhaps you still harbor some hope. True, the Great Luo Dynasty could disintegrate sooner. But you know the odds are slim. Furthermore, the southern army and themanders of the Great Luo Dynasty are not easy to deal with. The Great Luo Dynasty is and full of talent, with many influential figures from the Ancient Holy Capital yet to descend. The Great Yu Dynasty only started utilizing your talents recently. Before, King Ju Lu had the golden opportunity to aplish many great things, to change the course of fate. But now, that time has passed, and it will note again," Zhong Shan said.


    "Cough, cough... cough... cough..." Yi Yan started coughing, clearly agitated by Zhong Shan''s words.


    After the coughing subsided, Yi Yan fixed his gaze on Zhong Shan.


    "Mr. Zhong Shan, if you have something to say, just say it," Yi Yan said.


    "Haha, I propose a bet, Mr. Yi Yan," Zhong Shan said.


    "A bet?" Yi Yan looked at Zhong Shan warily.

 Chapter 324: The Sky Collapsing Plan

    <h4>Chapter 324: The Sky Copsing n</h4>


    "Indeed, it is a gamble!" Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "A gamble? What are we gambling on?" Yi Yan asked calmly.


    "We are gambling on you, and we are gambling on me," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Yi Yan listened quietly.


    "If I lose, I am willing to serve under Mr. Yi Yan for two hundred years as amon soldier," Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "Two hundred years? Yi Yan''s lifespan is not even twenty years. How can you speak of two hundred?" Yi Yan shook his head.


    Yi Yan''s age was known to many throughout the world, and it was the basis upon which Zhong Shan had dared to predict the longevity of the Great Yu Dynasty.


    "Hehe, when I say two hundred years, it matters not whether Mr. Yi Yan survives!" Zhong Shan reiterated.


    At Zhong Shan''s words, Yi Yan''s pupils contracted. "And if I die, would Mr. Zhong Shan be willing to take over as the Grand Marshal of the Great Yu Dynasty?"


    "Naturally, I would devote myself wholeheartedly," Zhong Shan affirmed.


    The current Great Yu Dynasty was Yi Yan''s aspiration, naturally stirring some excitement. However, upon receiving Zhong Shan''s affirmation, Yi Yan became calm again.


    "And if you win?" Yi Yan inquired.


    "If I win, Mr. Yi Yan will serve under me as amon soldier for two hundred years!" Zhong Shan said straightforwardly.


    "Hehe, Mr. Zhong Shan is joking again. As I just said, I have at most twenty years of lifespan due to a massive poison in my body. Who knows when I might die prematurely? Do you still hope for my ghost to assist you?" Yi Yan shook his head and chuckled.


    "Hehe, then let it be the remaining time you live in this world!" Zhong Shan continued.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Yi Yan frowned again, staring at Zhong Shan, uncertain about what scheme Zhong Shan was plotting!


    "What exactly are we gambling on?" Yi Yan asked in a deep voice.


    "We are gambling on the lifespan of the Great Yu Dynasty. Within ten years, my Great Luo Dynasty will surely overthrow the Great Yu Dynasty," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Ridiculous! Ten years? The Battle of Linhai Twelve Cities was your biggest victory. It was rumored that it took you only five months, but I think from nning to the final victory, it must have taken at least a year and a half, thanks to the Eastern Sea Dragons. Ten years? The Great Yu Dynasty still has over a hundred and fifty cities. Ten years? Impossible!" Yi Yan scoffed.


    "Mr. Yi Yan has overlooked one thing. The current Great Yu Dynasty not only has over a hundred and fifty cities, but also a strategist like yourself," Zhong Shan smiled.


    Staring at Zhong Shan, Yi Yan could not believe such nonsense. Ten years? Could ten years really be enough?


    Impossible. Absolutely impossible.


    However, Yi Yan was not a stubborn person. Naturally, he did not get entangled in the possible or impossible, but rather thought about the gains and losses.


    In ten years, would he still be alive? This gamble seemed to be a loss for Zhong Shan, but Yi Yan always felt there was some kind of conspiracy behind it.


    "What does Mr. Yi Yan think? Dare you take this gamble?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    Staring at Zhong Shan, Yi Yan thought and thought again, unsure, unable to see any ws. Nor could he see any advantage for Zhong Shan.


    "What''s the point of not gambling? It''s just that Mr. Zhong Shan will be at a disadvantage!" Yi Yan shook his head.


    "Hehe, at a disadvantage? No, Zhong Shan is taking advantage!" Zhong Shan said.


    With that said, Zhong Shan flipped his hand and took out a small purple bottle.


    Yi Yan looked at it curiously.


    Zhong Shan ced the small bottle on Yi Yan''s table.


    "This is...?" Yi Yan furrowed his brows.


    "The Heavenly Origin Divine Pill!" Zhong Shan dered.


    The Heavenly Origin Divine Pill was the supreme eighth-grade pill of the Tai Dan Sect, thest one. It could swiftly elevate Yi Yan from the peak of the Nascent Soul stage to the Unity stage, forming his Yuan Shen, thereby immediately purging the toxins within his body.


    "The Heavenly Origin Divine Pill?" Yi Yan''s eyes widened with astonishment and a hint of ecstatic joy.


    "After Mr. Yi was poisoned, you sought numerous methods but to no avail. Yet, you must have heard of the Heavenly Origin Divine Pill," Zhong Shan chuckled.


    Taking a deep breath, Yi Yan hesitated as he looked at the small vial but did not reach out. He had already believed Zhong Shan''s words. Zhong Shan wouldn''t deceive him with this, and there was no need for it.


    "Do you have such certainty?" Yi Yan frowned.


    "Indeed. Since I boast of this, naturally, I have the capability to aplish it. Mr. Yi should ept this gamble. I, Zhong Shan, do not wish to take advantage of your misfortune. After you recover, we will confront the enemy together," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Aren''t you afraid I might break my promise?" Yi Yan stared at Zhong Shan.


    "I trust in Mr. Yi''s character. Some things are more important than life itself. Otherwise, Mr. Yi wouldn''t have stayed in the Great Yu Dynasty for so many years," Zhong Shan affirmed.


    Yi Yan gently rose and solemnly bowed to Zhong Shan. "Very well, then I will hold this post for ten years! I will await the oue."


    Zhong Shan also stood and returned the gesture. "May heaven and earth bear witness."


    "Heaven and earth bear witness," Yi Yan echoed.


    With a wave of his hand, Iron Blood and his men approached from afar, and me Rider swiftly flew closer.


    Yi Yan said no more, boarded the sedan, and was carried away by Iron Blood''s men.


    As for Zhong Shan, he sighed deeply and watched Yi Yan depart.


    Ten years! Would Yi Yan really allow Zhong Shan to have his way?


    "They''ve left," me Rider remarked.


    "They have indeed. Let''s go too. Call Ada. Our time is exceedingly limited," Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "Yes, sir!" Ada responded promptly��


    Above the white clouds, Ada steered the cloud carrying Zhong Shan and me Rider towards a specific direction.


    "Sir, are we not returning to the Radiant City?" Ada asked in confusion.


    "Not for now. We''re heading to the Great Profound City," Zhong Shan replied.


    "The Great Profound City? Is sir meeting with the Great Profound King?" Ada eximed.


    "Exactly. I''ve already informed the princess; she knows. Rest assured," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Yes!" Ada nodded in acknowledgment.


    Three monthster.


    Great Profound City, the Lord''s Mansion! Study of the Great Profound King!


    The Great Profound King was discussing matters with his advisors.


    "Your Majesty, from this military intelligence, Yi Yan and Xiao Wang might have already met," one advisor reported.


    "Yes, Your Majesty, the uing battles are bing increasingly challenging," another advisor added.


    "I heard that the progress on the side of the First King is very smooth. Your Majesty, although we face two dynasties, the support from the Emperor is the greatest. We cannot fall behind," the earlier advisor continued.


    "Getting more difficult? Yi Yan''s lifespan is at most twenty more years. If we fight for another twenty years, the Great Yu Dynasty will undoubtedly be defeated," another advisormented.


    "Not necessarily defeated. We can only say it will be very difficult for the next twenty years. After twenty years, who can guarantee that another Yi Yan won''t emerge from the Great Yu?" the first advisor shook his head.


    "The overall situation points to the downfall of the Great Yu Dynasty. During the time when Jiu Lu King was in power, Yi Yan lost the opportunity to reverse the situation. He wants to turn from defense to offense, which is not easy, and with his limited lifespan, slowly depleting, the Great Yu will also perish. After that, Da Guang will find it difficult to stand alone and will also be defeated," another advisor suddenly spoke up.


    "Indeed, but we cannot afford to wait too long!" the first advisor suddenly spoke up.


    "True, and the other three princes won''t stop to wait for us. Do we have a swift method to swiftly defeat the enemy?" the Great Profound King looked at his advisors.


    The advisors fell silent for a moment and then shook their heads.


    "It''s difficult!" the first advisor spoke again.


    "Oh?" the Great Profound King looked at him. Difficult, but not impossible?


    "From the normal perspective of leading troops, if we want to swiftly overthrow both dynasties, we must employ extraordinary tactics, a battle beyond the conventional!" the first advisor continued.


    "A battle beyond the conventional?" the Great Profound King looked at the first advisor.


    "Yes, it must be a battle outside the regr battlefield, but as for the specifics, I haven''t figured that out yet," the first advisor shook his head.


    "That''s alright, having a direction is enough!" the Great Profound King smiled.


    Just as the Great Profound King and his advisors were in discussion, a steward-like figure entered from a side room.


    The steward was evidently someone trusted by the Great Profound King, and the advisors paid no particr attention.


    "My lord!" the steward bowed respectfully.


    "What is it?" the Great Profound King asked with a furrowed brow.


    "Dongfang Marquis Zhong Shan seeks an audience outside!" the steward said respectfully.


    "Zhong Shan?" the Great Profound King furrowed his brows.


    The advisors exchanged surprised nces and then focused their gaze back on the Great Profound King.


    "How many are with him?" the Great Profound King asked.


    "Including Zhong Shan, there are three in total. The other two are Ada and me Rider," the steward replied deferentially. Clearly, the situation regarding Zhong Shan''s subordinates was no secret.


    "My lord, Zhong Shan''s visit must hold significant importance!" the first advisor spoke up.


    "Hmm, let Zhong Shane in," the Great Profound King nodded.


    "Yes!" the steward left to carry out the order. The advisors also arranged themselves.


    Zhong Shan arrived at the Great Profound City and, by virtue of his status, was soon received at the Lord''s Mansion to wait.


    "You two wait here!" Zhong Shan instructed Ada and me Rider.


    "Yes!" they responded.


    "Dongfang Marquis, His Majesty summons you!" the steward smiled at Zhong Shan.


    "No trouble at all," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "It''s my duty," the steward smiled.


    Soon, Zhong Shan ascended the floating ind and entered a side hall, circled around, and entered an inner chamber.


    In the chamber, the Great Profound King with his four pupils sat behind the desk. Eight schrs dressed in attire stood on either side. Everyone gazed silently at Zhong Shan. The steward offered a bow and withdrew.


    After several years, seeing the Great Profound King again, Zhong Shan still felt the pressure emanating from his four pupils, as if an infinite force was pressing down on his heart.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan bowed respectfully. "Your humble servant Zhong Shan pays respects to Your Majesty."


    Observing Zhong Shan, the Great Profound King''s expression grew serious. "Zhong Shan, instead of confronting the enemy at the front lines, why have you returned here, acting independently? Have you not received my military orders?"


    Upon hearing the Great Profound King''s inquiry, Zhong Shan showed no fear but remained respectful. "Your Majesty, I have crucial military intelligence to report. The gravity of this intelligencepelled me to return in person."


    "Critical military intelligence?" the Great Profound King squinted at Zhong Shan. Military intelligence? Could there be matters at the front lines that I am unaware of?


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "Speak! If what you say is true, you are forgiven. If not, it would be insubordination, punishable by thews of our army," the Great Profound King stated sternly.


    However, Zhong Shan did not immediately speak. Instead, he nced around at the advisors, indicating that this was sensitive military information that should not be known to outsiders.


    "They are all my trusted confidants! Speak," the Great Profound King instructed.


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Your Majesty, based on the information I have gathered over these years, I have devised a ''Heaven Copse n.'' It is estimated that within five years, we can overthrow the Great Yu Dynasty! Please review," Zhong Shan spoke and then took out a jade slip from his sleeve.


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 325: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Tsunami

    <h4>Chapter 325: Zhong Shan''s Tsunami</h4>


    The Heaven''s Copse n! To annihte the Great Yu Dynasty within five years?


    Everyone in the study room''s pupils constricted in shock. Five years? Such boldness! The Heaven''s Copse n?


    All eyes were fixed on Zhong Shan''s right hand, holding an unassuming jade slip.


    Curiosity! Extreme curiosity. The Heaven''s Copse n! Such audacity, such courage, such grandeur!


    Everyone had their own opinions about Zhong Shan, but if what he said was true, then this n was terrifying indeed.


    Five years, within five years? The Great Yu Dynasty still had 150 cities. Five years meant conquering thirty cities a year, a city every twelve days, without interruption!


    "Heaven''s Copse n!" The Great Profound King did not look at the jade slip but instead gazed at Zhong Shan, his eyes radiating a sharp intensity.


    Zhong Shan ced the jade slip on the Great Profound King''s desk and then stepped back, waiting silently.


    The Great Profound King picked up the jade slip and, with a sweep of his divine sense, his eyebrows rose. He began to analyze it carefully.


    In the study, the eight strategists were fixated on the Great Profound King, hoping he would dere the n absurd, thus restoring their confidence over Zhong Shan.


    The Great Profound King remained silent for a full hour.


    Everyone watched as he furrowed his brow, deeply analyzing. It was bing clear that this so-called "Heaven''s Copse n" might indeed have merit.


    But what kind of Heaven''s Copse n could conquer the Great Yu Dynasty within five years?


    If the Heaven''s Copse n was feasible, and could take down an empire in five years, then could it topple a celestial dynasty in fifty years? This thought made the strategists look at Zhong Shan with a mix of fear and awe.


    An hourter, the Great Profound King set down the jade slip and stared intensely at Zhong Shan. "ording to your Heaven''s Copse n, what do you need?"


    "The Great Yu battlefield must fully cooperate, and the celestial dynasty must fund five billion top-grade spirit stones!" Zhong Shan dered.


    Five billion top-grade spirit stones? Everyone was stunned. What would he need such a vast sum for? Could it be that this so-called Heaven''s Copse n involved buying off the officials of the Great Yu Dynasty? Was he nning to drown them in money?


    The strategists exchanged bewildered nces and then turned their eyes back to the Great Profound King.


    "Can you guarantee sess in five years?" The Great Profound King asked in a low voice.


    "Five years at most. It could be done in as little as four years," Zhong Shan assured confidently.


    Four years? Ridiculous! Some of the strategists began to suspect Zhong Shan nned to buy off Great Yu officials with money.


    "Is five billion top-grade spirit stones enough?" The Great Profound King asked in a grave tone.


    The strategists were astonished. Five billion? Was he really going to hand over five billion for him to squander?


    "The figures are all in the n, Your Majesty. Five billion is just enough. In five years, I will return ten billion top-grade spirit stones to the celestial dynasty!" Zhong Shan dered with certainty.


    "What?" The strategists looked at Zhong Shan in amazement.


    They realized that Zhong Shan''s n was definitely not about bribing officials. Five billion top-grade spirit stones, and he would return ten billion in five years?


    "Return to the Radiant City and make preparations. I will report this to the Emperor immediately and await his approval!" The Great Profound King said.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. The value of this Heaven''s Copse n should be evident. It can only be used once, and it must not be leaked in the slightest. Even letting the name slip could lead to failure. I hope Your Majesty will maintain strict confidentiality," Zhong Shan said respectfully.


    "Rest assured!" The Great Profound King replied.


    "Then I take my leave," Zhong Shan said, giving a formal bow before exiting the study.


    Zhongshan left the room in an air of quiet resolve. All eyes in the room turned to the Great Xu King.


    "Today''s events��you have seen nothing, heard nothing,"manded the Great Xu King to his assembled strategists.


    "Understood!" they responded in unison.


    "You may leave," the Great Xu King continued.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" The strategists swiftly made their exit, leaving only the chief strategist behind in the dimly lit study.


    "Your Highness," the chief strategist addressed the Great Xu King.


    Handing over a jade slip, the Great Xu King said, "Take a look at this. Is it feasible?"


    The chief strategist took the jade slip with both hands, his expression serious as he began to study it closely. The Great Xu King waited patiently, observing the strategist''s face grow increasingly tense with concentration. Half an hour passed before the strategist finally rxed his grip on the jade slip, closing his eyes in deep thought. After a moment of silence, he exhaled deeply.


    "Well?" inquired the Great Xu King.


    "Incredible! This is an incredible n. If executed, the Da Yu Empire will never recover. It''s exceedingly potent. Should it seed, the Da Yu Empire won''t just be left in ruins; it would render every city on the brink of copse. It''s a ruthless n, though not as bloody as ughtering millions on the battlefield, yet far more terrifying in its impact. Once the storm sweeps through, Da Yu is doomed!" The chief strategist took a deep breath, clearly astounded.


    "Do you truly believe so?" The Great Xu King fixed his gaze on the chief strategist.


    "Indeed, Your Majesty. This Zhongshan, his vision is exceptionally sharp. He has pinpointed a critical weakness not only in the Da Yu Empire but potentially in all the dynasties of Shenzhou. This opportunity is a one-time chance. Once the ''Heaven''s Copse'' n is executed, it cannot be repeated. That''s why Zhongshan is so cautious. Other than the Emperor, no fourth person must see this jade slip. I believe Zhongshan''s n is feasible," the chief strategist responded with admiration.


    "Zhongshan''s n is feasible?" The Great Xu King eyed the chief strategist intently.


    "Yes. Although this is merely a n, it clearly demonstrates the intricacy of its design. Every step is interconnected, and not a single mistake can be afforded. Even the slightest deviation, such as a misced spirit stone, could result in a catastrophic failure. This is why Zhongshan entrusted you with it, Your Majesty. Because no one else could immediately implement this n. The ''Heaven''s Copse'' is extremely unconventional. Understanding it is one thing; executing it wlessly without years of experience is impossible. In the ancient capital, one might find people who could follow the n, but they aren''t loyal to you," the chief strategist exined.


    "Prepare yourself; we are returning to the ancient capital immediately," the Great Xu King ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" The chief strategist responded promptly.


    After leaving the Great Xu City, Zhongshan, apanied by Ah Da and Zhi Huo, hurriedly made his way to Radiant City, traveling at breakneck speed. One monthter, they arrived in Radiant City.


    As expected, Princess Qianyou''s wisdom had thwarted Xiao Wang''s attempts to probe her defenses.


    In the City Lord''s mansion of Radiant City, within a secluded pavilion, only Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou sat facing each other, sipping tea.


    "These past few months, I owe you a great deal," Zhongshan said to Princess Qianyou.


    "It''s nothing. I naturally took care of what you asked," Princess Qianyou replied with a serene smile.


    Princess Qianyou didn''t boast, didn''t express pride, nor did she feign modesty. Her straightforward words were profoundly touching.


    "How did things go in the Great Xu City?" Princess Qianyou inquired.


    "Very well. If everything goes as nned, the imperial edict will arrive in no more than four months," Zhongshan replied.


    "Are you that confident? Can you really overthrow the Da Yu Empire in five years? Thest time, with the twelve cities by the sea, it was thanks to the dragon n''s involvement. This time, without their help, what if things spiral out of control?" Princess Qianyou expressed her concern.


    "Spiral out of control? Don''t worry. In Wushuang City, I''ve already sent people to collect the necessary statistics. Sess is certain. When have you ever seen me fail?" Zhongshan said with unwavering confidence.


    "Do you have another external ally?" Princess Qianyou asked, her eyes narrowing with suspicion.


    "No, it''s not that. I''ve discovered a blind spot, something overlooked by everyone. It''s a weakness that no one on the vastnd of Shenzhou has paid attention to, but where Ie from, it''s been studied for a long time. This blind spot could lead to theplete copse of an imperial dynasty," Zhongshan dered with absolute confidence.


    "Oh, where youe from? You mean Tiang Ind?" Princess Qianyou inquired, her curiosity piqued.


    Zhongshan nced at Qianyou and smiled faintly without providing a direct answer.


    "What are you nning to do?" Princess Qianyou pressed on.


    "I''m nning to unleash a tsunami on the Da Yu Empire, a massive tsunami that will sweep across the entire dynasty," Zhongshan responded with unwavering certainty.


    "A tsunami?" Princess Qianyou''s eyes widened slightly, a hint of confusion mingled with intrigue. It was clear that the tsunami Zhongshan referred to wasn''t a literal deluge of seawater inundating the twelve coastal cities but rather a metaphor for something far more devastating.


    "Yes, the condition I proposed to the Great Xu King was that the Da Yu Empire''s battlefield would be under mypletemand. The army must cooperate fully with my ns, and Da Luo must support me by issuing certain orders. Additionally, I require five hundred million top-grade spirit stones to orchestrate this tsunami," Zhongshan exined, a smile ying on his lips.


    "Five hundred million?" Princess Qianyou''s eyes widened in shock.


    Although Princess Qianyou was ustomed to wealth and had seen plenty of spirit stones, five hundred million top-grade spirit stones was an astronomical figure.


    Five hundred million top-grade spirit stones equal fifty billion mid-grade spirit stones or five hundred billion low-grade spirit stones. That''s an immense amount!


    "What exactly are you nning?" Princess Qianyou couldn''tprehend the scale of Zhongshan''s scheme.


    "I intend to create a super financial tsunami that will sweep through the Da Yu Empire. The financial systems that the world''s dynasties disregard will utterly devastate Da Yu, obliterating itpletely," Zhongshan dered with unshakable self-assurance.


    Seeing the absolute conviction in Zhongshan''s demeanor, a strange feeling overcame Princess Qianyou. For some reason, she found herself momentarily entranced by the sheer audacity of his ambition.


    In the Da Yu Empire, within the bustlingmercial district of Sky City, the capital of the empire, a modest storefront belonging to the Daren Trading Association carried on its usual business. In a secluded hall at the back of the store, the Crown Prince of the Great Zheng Dynasty, Zhong Zheng, sat alone. A cup of tea rested on a small table beside him, and no one was permitted to disturb him. In his hand, he held a letter, which he read carefully.


    After reading for a while, Zhong Zheng took a deep breath. With a sudden motion, he crushed the letter, reducing it to fragments, effectively destroying all evidence.


    "Over four years ago, for the sake of your n, I couldn''t attend your centennial celebration, godfather. Six years of preparation, and now, is it finally time to set it all in motion?" Zhong Zheng murmured, a sense of reverence and anticipation evident in his voice.

 Chapter 326: The Initiation of the Heaven鈥檚 Collapse Plan

    <h4>Chapter 326: The Initiation of the Heaven''s Copse n</h4>


    As Zhongshan had anticipated, four monthster, the imperial edict arrived in Radiant City!


    "By the mandate of heaven, the Emperor decrees: Eastern Marquis is appointed to oversee the ''Heaven''s Copse n,'' with full authority over the Da Yu Empire battlefield. All officials and militarymanders are toply with his directives. A special allocation of six hundred million top-grade spirit stones is provided, with fifteen billion top-grade spirit stones to be returned to the treasury in five years. So ordered by His Majesty!"


    "Long live His Majesty! Long live the Emperor!"


    Zhongshan epted the imperial edict from a eunuch''s hands. Standing beside the eunuch was a schr, none other than the chief strategist who had been present in the Great Xu King''s study.


    "Congrattions, Eastern Marquis!" The chief strategist smiled warmly.


    "Who might this be?" Zhongshan looked at the chief strategist, puzzled.


    "My name is Fan Yipin. Eastern Marquis may simply call me Yipin," the chief strategist introduced himself with a smile.


    "Fan Yipin?" Zhongshan recognized the name.


    "Greetings, Mr. Fan!" Zhongshan respectfully bowed.


    "I have also had the honor of reading the Heaven''s Copse n. It is a magnificent masterpiece! I am truly impressed. This time, the Emperor and the Great Xu King have entrusted me with delivering the six hundred million top-grade spirit stones to you and assisting you in implementing this n," Fan Yipin exined.


    Upon hearing this, Zhongshan''s pupils contracted slightly. The Heaven''s Copse n was a highly ssified and valuable strategy. The fact that Fan Yipin had ess to it indicated a significant level of trust from the Great Xu King.


    "Mr. Fan, you tter me! It''s merely a small stratagem, unworthy of your attention," Zhongshan responded courteously.


    "A small stratagem involving six hundred million top-grade spirit stones? Eastern Marquis, there is no need for humility or concern. I am here purely to assist and will not interfere with any of your decisions, not a single one," Fan Yipin assured him.


    "Then I''ll be relying on your support!" Zhongshan nodded, smiling.


    "Now that the decree has been issued, the eunuch should quickly return to report to the Great Xu King and the Emperor," Fan Yipin suggested to the eunuch.


    "Farewell!" The eunuch promptly turned and flew off.


    Once only Fan Yipin and Zhongshan were left, Fan Yipin spoke again, "In addition to the six hundred million top-grade spirit stones, I have brought fifteen hundred capable and loyal individuals to serve under yourmand. They are reliable and will not betray you, ready to help you aplish the Heaven''s Copse n!"


    "Excellent!" Zhongshan nodded in approval.


    Fifteen hundred people? Likely spies, but that was eptable since he hadn''t nned to expose the Daren Trading Association anyway.


    "Would you like to inspect them?" Fan Yipin asked.


    "Of course. These fifteen hundred individuals will be crucial to the Heaven''s Copse n. They will disperse five billion top-grade spirit stones across one hundred and fifty cities in the Da Yu Empire. Since you assure me of their loyalty, I can entrust them with the funds without worry," Zhongshan said with a smile.


    "Good! When do you n to start?" Fan Yipin inquired.


    "It will take at least six months of training. The Heaven''s Copse n allows no room for error. Even the most capable minds can make mistakes without proper training. A single mistake could ruin everything," Zhongshan exined.


    "Absolutely. We shall wait to see how Eastern Marquis executes it," Fan Yipin responded with a smile.


    Eight monthster!


    In Radiant City, within a secluded pavilion, three individuals sat together: Zhongshan, Princess Qianyou, and Fan Yipin.


    "Eastern Marquis, when will it begin?" Fan Yipin asked.


    "Yes, the war in Da Yu territory has been raging non-stop for two months now. How much longer until the Heaven''s Copse n is set in motion?" Princess Qianyou added with a smile.


    "Yi Yan is a cunning old fox. If we don''t keep him upied with constant battles, he''ll turn his attention to both the grander schemes of the world and the minor matters of people''s livelihoods. We must keep him distracted for a while," Zhongshan said with conviction.


    "But it''s already been two months. When exactly will you start?" Princess Qianyou asked again.


    "On the fifteenth of August, the night of the full moon," Zhongshan replied with a smile.


    "Really?" Princess Qianyou was momentarily taken aback, ncing up at the sky.


    "Right now?" Fan Yipin asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, right now. In the Da Yu Empire, across one hundred and fifty cities, we have already begun. It starts with ''Flowing me Copper.'' We are hoarding it, hoarding it all. Within three days, I want every shop in need of Flowing me Copper for crafting to face severe shortages. I want most people to know that starting now, Flowing me Copper is in high demand, and everyone will scramble to buy it. Merchants will rush to hoard it!" Zhongshan dered.


    As Zhongshan had said, on the night of the fifteenth of August, groups of about ten people in each city began sweeping through the majormercial districts, buying up all the Flowing me Copper they could find.


    In less than two days, the market began to feel the strain. Some clever merchants saw the opportunity for profit and started hoarding. Scarcity drives up prices.


    Although Zhongshan''s five hundred million spirit stones alone couldn''t buy up all the Flowing me Copper, the ''clever'' merchants joining in ensured that the copper became extremely scarce. This led to shortages in many crafting shops, which in turn reduced the avability of certain popr magical artifacts.


    The price of Flowing me Copper soared, rising to five times its usual value. People began to panic and bought it up frantically. Newly mined Flowing me Copper was snatched up as soon as it arrived in the market, and some people even rushed to other cities to procure more supplies.


    Ten dayster, for some inexplicable reason, the price of Flowing me Copper suddenly dropped. As if by prior agreement, the market was suddenly flooded with the copper again, although it was mostly being bought up by people from other cities.


    The dramatic rise and fall of Flowing me Copper left some people with substantial profits, but many others lost heavily by buying high and selling low. More importantly, many magical artifact shops lost a significant number of customers, and their reputations suffered greatly.


    Although the price of Flowing me Copper fell, anothermodity suddenly became highly sought after.


    Liugu Grass. This herb, used in alchemy, wasn''t very expensive, and there wasn''t much of it on the market because it wasn''t particrly difficult to find in the mountains and forests.


    The price of Liugu Grass began to climb, no, it skyrocketed, reaching eight times its usual value in just four days.


    The prospect of enormous profits drove people into a frenzy.


    But it wasn''t long before people started dumping their stocks of Liugu Grass, leading to the financial ruin of many who had bought in at high prices, while others sighed in relief that they had avoided such losses.


    A strange phenomenon was observed across all the cities in the Da Yu Empire.


    Raw materials, crafting materials, and alchemical ingredients underwent wild fluctuations in price. This caused chaos in the magical artifact and alchemical shops.


    Stores began to run out of stock, either missing one thing or another.


    A month of turbulence saw prices rising and falling unpredictably. The market became increasingly unstable, and shopkeepers grew anxious. However, many merchants began to engage in reckless spection, treating the market like a gambling den.


    After two months, the market in the Da Yu Empire was in turmoil. Spective trading became rampant. People entered the market blindly, buying without considering the quality of the goods and selling just as indiscriminately. The focus was solely on hoarding and selling.


    Market order began to break down, but it seemed that this chaos was confined to themercial districts and had no direct impact on the government. The officials'' only concern was that taxes were paid on time. As long as taxes were collected, the merchants were free to buy and sell as they pleased.


    As the market trembled in chaos, transactions surged, leading to increased tax revenues for the government officials, who reveled in their unexpected windfall. Little did they realize the lurking menace, the impending catastrophe, and the sinister conspiracy festering beneath the surface.


    The Da Yu Empire found itself embroiled in a storm of spection. The initial frenzied buying and selling hadid the groundwork for an even more rampant and reckless investment climate.


    Three months into this financial tempest, the ranks of gamblers swelled. Many had amassed fortunes through the vtile market fluctuations, yet an even greater number found themselves destitute, stripped of their wealth and left with scant options: endure harsh cultivation, borrow money, or abandon the city in search of new opportunities.


    In the midst of this turmoil, Zhongshan and Fan Yipin sat in a pavilion in Guanghui City, engrossed in a game of Go. Yet neither of them paid any attention to the board. They yed a game of blind chess, mirroring the chaotic and uncertain market conditions in the Da Yu Empire.


    "How does it look now, Eastern Marquis?" Fan Yipin inquired, his gaze fixed on Zhongshan.


    "I''ve been using Guanghui City as a microcosm to simte the conditions of all the cities in the Da Yu Empire. The market behavior here reflects what''s happening across the empire. Over the past three months, I''ve noticed that some cultivators are surprisingly shrewd. Initially reactive, they have begun to mount a counter-offensive," Zhongshan remarked with a deep breath.


    "Oh?" Fan Yipin turned his attention to Zhongshan, intrigued.


    "Our ability to influence the market hinges primarily on our substantial capital. With five billion spirit stones at our disposal, we''ve been able to steer the market. Although the amount allocated to each city isn''trge, it''s sufficient to make a significant impact. Over these three months, we''ve umted even more wealth. However, certain major families and prominent merchants within the cities have also wised up. They''ve started to band together, pooling their resources and beginning to y their own game, attempting to disrupt our rhythm," Zhongshan mused.


    "Disrupt the rhythm? If they manage to throw off our timing, the Heaven''s Copse n might be ineffective, and we''ll end up merely profiting from the chaos," Fan Yipin observed, his tone calm but with a hint of curiosity rather than anxiety.


    "It''s of no concern. I''ve anticipated this development. However, we have just three days left. During this time, let them enjoy their profits. In three days, I will show these major financial groups, who think they''ve ascended to the level of strategists, how they can be reduced to mere pawns once more," Zhongshan dered with unwavering confidence.


    Fan Yipin''s eyes narrowed at Zhongshan''s words, his brow furrowing briefly before rxing into a slight smile.


    "Three days, huh? So, the first phase of the Heaven''s Copse n isplete?" Fan Yipin asked, a knowing smile ying on his lips.


    "Yes, the first phase isplete. Now, the real devastation begins. The initial three months were merely preparatory. What follows is the first major copse of the Da Yu market. This copse will deliver a crippling blow to the Da Yu economy," Zhongshan stated with supreme confidence.

 Chapter 327: The Collapse of the Heavens

    <h4>Chapter 327: The Copse of the Heavens</h4>


    Three dayster, another item began to rise in price, something that Zhang Shan had not touched in the past three months��Sumeru Stones!


    Among all the items, Sumeru Stones were the most important because everyone needed storage space and thus had to use Sumeru Stones. There was a huge demand for Sumeru Stones every day because many people needed to replenish their storage bracelets or create new ones, especially those with lower cultivation levels.


    The price of Sumeru Stones skyrocketed rapidly. Within a day, the price had doubled from its original level! Many people started buying inrge quantities��many, many people.


    Many spectors began buying in bulk, andrge financial consortiums joined in. With the rise in prices came the money.


    After three months of preparation, Zhang Shan''s people had already set up Sumeru Stone shops in major cities. With this foundation, their operations became easier.


    They hoarded, and they hoarded fast. Zhang Shan''s subordinates rapidly hoarded, major merchants rapidly hoarded, and major families rapidly hoarded. Now, if you wanted to buy Sumeru Stones, you had to queue up and even then you might not get any.


    The more they hoarded, the more there was to hoard.


    Ten dayster, some major merchants felt the timing was right, as with other goods before. It was about time for the price to fall.


    So, they started selling off, making a big profit. However, this time it was different. Instead of falling, the price of Sumeru Stones continued to rise. Those who had sold were full of regret, while those who still held onto their stones clutched them tighter.


    More continued to hoard. Twenty dayster, the price had reached ten times its previous level��a terrifying amount. Many, many people began to feel that their hearts couldn''t take it anymore. How could the price rise so high?


    The number of people buying short increased daily, borrowing money to buy, borrowing a lot of money. They used other people''s money to buy their favored goods and sold them at a good priceter to make a profit.


    The entiremercial market of the Great Yu Dynasty was in a state of suppressed rage. The eyes of countless people were fixed on the price of Sumeru Stones, hoping for it to rise or fall!


    Early on the twenty-fifth day!


    It fell, it fell heavily, by thirty percent. Those who had stones watched the price drop sharply. Their hearts went cold.


    It was time to drop; sell off, and more and more people started selling stones. But, the more they sold, the less valuable they became, and they fell faster!


    In two days, it dropped back to its original price. Suddenly, countless Sumeru Stones appeared on the market, causing the price of Sumeru Stones to plummet to half of its original price. No, it''s still falling!


    The price of Sumeru Stones was pitiful! There was no ce to sell. Here, the price had just been set, but over there, it dropped again.


    It was too horrible, and in an instant, countless people fell into bankruptcy again. Merchants were deeply in debt.


    Sumeru Stones were worthless. Some people decided not to sell and were prepared to go elsewhere. But, the Great Yu Dynasty, one hundred and fifty cities were the same, and there were others who had lent them money. What if you run away?


    The market in the Great Yu Dynasty was in chaos. Sell, now you want to be willing to buy his Sumeru Stone, and you are his father!


    While people were giving up the value of Sumeru Stones, a big hand appeared in the dark, and someone began buying Sumeru Stones again.


    The price of Sumeru Stones began to rise again.


    Especially in those shops under Zhang Shan''smand��buy, and buy again!


    After five days, when Sumeru Stones were no longer sold cheaply on the market, people realized that the price of Sumeru Stones was about to rise again.


    It rose, and it rose madly!


    Those who hadn''t sold were extremely relieved, while those who had rushed to sell felt a heart-wrenching sense of regret and frustration. This round of Sumeru Stones surged even stronger than before!


    Soaring rapidly, in the blink of an eye, many people became worth millions!


    Too powerful! Sumeru Stones rose twenty times!


    Some smart people began to sell off, unable to bear it, their hearts couldn''t take it.


    But the price continued to rise, another twenty dayster. It finally peaked. Then it plummeted straight down, like a bottomless abyss, never seeming to stop.


    It fell! The price fell!


    Once again, countless people went bankrupt, countless shops closed due to debt.


    After this cycle, themercial sector of the Great Yu Dynasty''s cities fell silent.


    This time, there shouldn''t be any rebound, right? But when Sumeru Stones fell by half, they rose again, lifting the hearts of most people.


    But by this time, there were few who dared to continue. One by one, they looked at their wallets and felt like crying!


    Sure enough, as everyone expected, just two days after rising, the downward trend was like a waterfall, so pitifully falling!


    Sell, even the calmest heart couldn''t withstand the turmoil.


    When Sumeru Stones hit rock bottom, except for a few shops that were still buying, there was nothing left.


    Sumeru Stones were back on the rise, but now, no one dared to buy them again.


    Fear? No, they had no money.


    Plundering, frenzied plunder!


    Some major merchants understood some things, saw the darkness behind them, and all were cold sweats. Now, no one dared to touch Sumeru Stones again. At the same time, many major merchants joined forces and learned this method to fluctuate other products and profit from price differences.


    However, after this round of Sumeru Stone copse, all merchants suddenly couldn''t hold on anymore.


    Small merchants announced good luck in closing down one after another, while medium-sized merchants were still exhausted and continued to y out price changes with major merchants.


    But at this moment, it looked like a small game. The market became extremely exhausted, andmerce became extremely depressed. In each city, killings and robberies suddenly increased.


    The one hundred and fifty cities of the Great Yu Dynasty suddenly became restless.


    One monthter, the price of Sumeru Stones continued to rise, and some major merchants wanted to hoard them. However, they were surprised to find out. No goods, can''t find goods?


    Where are the Sumeru Stones?


    A scene of great depression inmerce��no money left, pockets empty, and debts piling up. What''s going on? Many people were bewildered, no money left?


    Without the cirction of spirit stones, the elixirs in the alchemy shops were withering. What used to be abundant now had only a few varieties left. It was the same for the magic weapon shops. There were various raw materials in the material shops, but the alchemy shops dared not enter, and the magic weapon shops dared not stock up for refining. No one wanted to lose money, and simrly, no one had money anymore!


    More and more shops were closing! Unable to survive, unable to survive in this city, what do you need, nothing, even if you have, it''s dead expensive. And things dare not buy, now one hundred spirit stones to buy, two dayster only need ten spirit stones is enough.


    People were in panic, andmerce had copsed.


    Oncemerce fell, the government was next in line to suffer. Unable to collect taxes, shops closed down, and the citizens refused to pay their head taxes. "We''re broke. If you keep imposing taxes, we''re leaving! We won''t stay here anymore; we''ll live in the mountains or move to other cities to travel," they said.


    The government was dumbfounded.


    More importantly, Sumeru Stones disappeared from the market. Just like that, gone.


    How could this be possible? Sumeru Stones were different from other items; they couldn''t be stored in storage bracelets. Simr spaces couldn''t ovep.


    Gone?


    When this news reached the main residences of each city lord, they were dumbfounded! No more spirit stones?


    One source of spirit stones in the country was the national spirit stone mine, managed by the army. However, spirit stone mines were very hidden and hard to find, and they were scarce! Scarce enough to support at most ten cities'' consumption.


    Then there were taxes. The key was the tax revenue from each city. Now that the market had copsed, there were no taxes to collect. What to do?


    In the Sky City. Inside the pce.


    "Your Majesty, it''s bad. Countless people have left Sky City, many shops have closed, and tax collection has stopped!" a minister spoke up.


    "What?" Emperor Nn furrowed his brow.


    "Your Majesty, we don''t know why. For nearly half a year, the market has been very vtile, and people have been trading very frequently. Tax revenue has been stable, no, it has been increasing. But justst month, suddenly, everything shut down. Countless merchants closed their doors. It''s so bizarre!" the official reported anxiously.


    "And how much tax revenue can we still collect?" Emperor Nn said in a deep voice.


    "Not even one percent of what it used to be. It''s too little, far too little. At this rate, the officials and army of our Great Yu Dynasty, in its one hundred and fifty cities, will soon have no military sries to provide, leading to mutiny!" the official eximed in terror.


    "Half a year has passed, why did it take until now to discover the problem?" Emperor Nn said with a solemn voice.


    "Your Majesty, we didn''t expect it. The market was lively, and we thought it was getting better, but who knew it would suddenly turn out like this, so inexplicable, so inexplicable," the official said anxiously.


    "Inexplicable? You find it inexplicable. Investigate. You have five days. Find out the root cause. If you can''t solve it, present yourself to me," Emperor Nn said coldly.


    "Yes!" the official said fearfully��


    In a city of the Great Yu Dynasty, Yi Yan sat behind themander''s desk, his brow furrowed.


    "Commander, we only manage the army. We never thought the city''s shops would cause such a stir. It''s not under our control. How could the civil officials let things get so bad?" Tie Xue asked anxiously.


    "How are the things I asked you to do?" Yi Yan stared at Tie Xue and asked.


    "Those big buyers who hoarded and suppressed prices have all been rounded up. Goods have been put back into the market, but there are too many spectors. It''s too difficult to control," Tie Xue shook his head and sighed.


    "Hahaha, did it take ten years? What a ruthless n, no, what a poisonous n. Zhong Shan, you really are an instigator. In half a year, you''ve turned countless merchants of the Great Yu into the root of public unrest, all in chaos!" Yi Yan sighed deeply.


    "Commander, what should we do? What about the spirit stones now? In a few months, military sries won''t be enough. One hundred and fifty cities, what should we do?" Tie Xue looked worried.


    "Spirit stones? Don''t worry about spirit stones. We can borrow from the Great Guang Dynasty. But public unrest is the real problem. It''s chaos. And the people in the city are leaving one after another. This is just the first wave, and there will be many more toe. If the city is empty, is it still a city?" Yi Yan sighed.


    "Commander, we''ll immediately order that no one is allowed to leave the city," Tie Xue said.


    "No, it won''t work. We can''t vite public opinion. This is just one harm. There''s an even greater harm that''s rapidly catalyzing this crisis," Yi Yan said.


    "What?" Tie Xue asked.


    "Sumeru Stones, our lifeblood!" Yi Yan clenched his fist.

 Chapter 328: Adding Insult to Injury

    <h4>Chapter 328: Adding Insult to Injury</h4>


    "Commander, can''t we borrow Sumeru Stones from the Great Guang Dynasty?" Tie Xue asked incredulously.


    "Borrow? Haha, do you know how high the prices of Sumeru Stones are in the current Great Yu market? After this incident, other countries will follow suit in raising prices. Sumeru Stones are almost a necessity for cultivators. Our country has no reserves because they''ve always been traded among the people. Never before has there been such a big problem. Once we borrow, the Great Guang Dynasty will only buy them at a high price. After buying them back, do we sell them at a reduced price or the original price in Great Yu? What''s the difference between the original and earlier prices? Even if we buy them back, Sumeru Stones can''t be stored in storage bracelets, and transportation will also be a problem. There will definitely be constant disturbances and rampant looting. More importantly, after this lesson, the Great Guang Dynasty won''t supply us with too many Sumeru Stones," Yi Yan said in a deep voice.


    "The Great Guang won''t lend us too many?" Tie Xue asked in confusion.


    "I think it won''t be long before the Great Luo Dynasty issues subsequent decrees tailored to our current situation, adding insult to injury. With the market in chaos, Great Yu is a prime example. The Great Guang Dynasty will certainly learn from this lesson and won''t transport too many Sumeru Stones over, as that could potentially cause market turmoil within the Great Guang Dynasty itself if exploited by malicious actors. Therefore, not in the short term!" Yi Yan sighed deeply.


    "Not in the short term? Then when?" Tie Xue worriedly asked.


    "At least half a year!" Yi Yan said firmly.


    "Half a year?" Tie Xue was puzzled.


    "After this market turmoil, it will also serve as a lesson to the world. It won''t be long before governments everywhere realize the dangers of market turmoil. Soon, governments will begin to stockpile various resources and enact regtions to stabilize prices. This is a bloody lesson for our Great Yu Dynasty, teaching the entire world," Yi Yan said with a bitter smile.


    "The Great Guang Dynasty will take half a year to stockpile various resources and stabilize the market? By then, will they be able to transport Sumeru Stones over?" Tie Xue asked with concern.


    "Yes!" Yi Yan affirmed.


    "So what should we do? In half a year, Great Yu will surely be in turmoil! The Great Luo Dynasty''s army is also watching us closely. This...?" Tie Xue looked worried.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll handle this. I''ll leave the frontline matters to you. I''ll return to Sky City immediately," Yi Yan said.


    "Yes!" Tie Xue immediately responded.


    With Yi Yan''s reassurance, Tie Xue felt much more at ease��


    As Yi Yan predicted, amidst the chaos in the Great Yu Dynasty, the Great Luo Dynasty issued decrees targeting the situation.


    "No trading allowed."


    No merchants are allowed to trade with neighboring countries. Offenders will have all their goods confiscated and will be charged with treason. Informants will be rewarded with all of the offender''s assets.


    Cut off trading! This truly added insult to injury for the Great Yu Dynasty. As a result, there was no possibility of purchasing from the Great Luo, and given Great Yu''s unique position, neighboring options were limited to the Great Guang and Great Luo. The Great Guang Dynasty, as Yi Yan mentioned, could lend spirit stones at most. Sumeru Stones? Unthinkable. They feared that their own country would also fall into market turmoil as a result.


    Countries quickly began stockpiling resources, especially Sumeru Stones, to prevent domestic unrest.


    Various decrees were swiftly issued to control the market and prevent rapid fluctuations in product prices.


    Because wise individuals in each country had already realized that this economic turmoil was more terrifying and devastating than war itself��


    Three monthster, when the high-level officials of various countries received reports from Great Yu, they were drenched in cold sweat, relieved that it was only Great Yu.


    Countries continued to adjust their policies rapidly.


    Chapter 328: Adding Insult to Injury


    In the frontline battlefield of the Great Radiance Empire, at General Xiao Wang''s camp.


    Inside a pce, General Xiao Wang held detailed reports on the market fluctuations of the Great Yu Empire. Standing before him were his two adopted sons, Xiao Yuanfeng and Xiao Yuandeng.


    Xiao Wang scrutinized the market data, lightly tapping his hand, with a hint of sigh in his eyes.


    "Father, how is it going?" Xiao Yuandeng asked.


    "Spectacr, truly spectacr. While I pride myself on leading troops, what I''ve always been most proud of is my business acumen. However, seeing the intricacies of this upheaval, I mustmend the stunning performance. Commerce, capable of devastating a dynasty overnight. The impact of this time''s disturbance is no less than a catastrophic tsunami sweeping across the entire Great Yu Empire. After this tsunami, the vitality of the Great Yu Empire has been greatly damaged, truly greatly damaged!" Xiao Wang sighed.


    "Father, is it really that powerful?" Xiao Yuandeng frowned and asked.


    "Yes, how could the Great Luo Empire have so many extraordinary figures?" Xiao Wang sighed lightly.


    "Then isn''t the Great Yu Empire finished?" Xiao Yuanfeng said, his brow furrowed.


    "Although the situation is dire, it''s not necessarily over." Xiao Wang shook his head.


    "Oh?" Xiao Yuanfeng was puzzled.


    "Because the Great Yu Empire still has Yi Yan, this remarkable figure. With him here, the Great Yu Empire might be able to weather this storm. I just don''t know if the nners behind this n have any follow-up measures, whether they can stir up another tsunami." Xiao Wang took a deep breath and said.


    At a remote port on the eastern coast, over a thousand huge ships were loading goods, waiting to set sail.


    On the shore, Zhong Zheng of the Great Rong Chamber faced the Green Cloud Wolf General.


    "Green Cloud Wolf General, thank you for your hard work. Please escort these goods back to Tiang Ind." Zhong Zheng smiled.


    "Young man, how did you manage to get so many goods? How much Mustard Seed Stone is this?" Green Cloud Wolf General widened his eyes and asked.


    "Hehe, it''s all guided by my father, and I just took advantage of a favorable wind." Zhong Zheng shook his head and smiled.


    "Don''t worry, since I''m here, these thousand ships of goods will definitely arrive safely at the Great Jue Kingdom." Green Cloud Wolf General said.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Zheng nodded.


    "Aren''t youing back with us?" Green Cloud Wolf General asked.


    "No, the Great Rong Chamber has just started, and this battle has not ended yet. There are still many spoils of war waiting for us to plunder." Zhong Zheng smiled.


    "Well, you take care. We''ll be on our way." Green Cloud Wolf General said.


    "Safe travels!" Zhong Zheng replied.


    Then, Green Cloud Wolf General led over a thousand huge ships, slowly heading towards Tiang Ind.


    Turning to look at the people behind him, Zhong Zheng said, "Let''s go, our business is not finished yet!"


    "Yes!" Everyone immediately responded.


    In the City Lord''s Mansion of Glorious City, three months had passed since the economic copse of the Great Yu Empire.


    Various news had spread not only throughout the world but also to Glorious City.


    In a secluded hall of the City Lord''s Mansion, Fan Yipin held documents in his hands and carefully read them.


    Standing beside Fan Yipin was another man in green, a former adviser in the study of the Great Xuan King, but with a lower status before Fan Yipin, still sincerely serving as the first strategist.


    "Mr. Fan, is this the Tianbeng n? It''s amazing! After this round, the Great Yu Empire has truly experienced an unprecedented disaster. It''s so powerful. Perhaps Mr. Fan doesn''t know sitting here, but I personally witnessed the madness within a city of the Great Yu Empire. It''s as if the sky had copsed!" The man in green said.


    "Any other discoveries?" Fan Yipin asked.


    "Well, there''s a feeling, but I can''t quite put my finger on it," the man in green replied.


    "Oh?" Fan Yipin set down the documents and looked at the man in green.


    "Logically, we are already the puppeteers behind the scenes. But I always feel that there''s another hidden hand in the Great Yu Empire''s economic market, even during moments of price fluctuations that nearly copsed. Strangely enough, it''s as if a ck hand suddenly helped us. Very strange. I investigated for a long time afterwards but found nothing conclusive. So, I''m not sure," the man in green exined.


    "Oh? More covert than our people, and you couldn''t trace its origin? No clues at all?" Fan Yipin''s pupils contracted.


    "Perhaps I was overly suspicious. How could there be someone else when we are the true maniptors of the market, and no one understands our changes?" the man in green shook his head with a smile.


    "That''s not necessarily true. The mastermind behind this market maniption isn''t you or me; it''s Dongfang Hou," Fan Yipin said in a deep voice.


    "But those over a thousand people are all under His Majesty and the Prince!" the man in green said in confusion.


    "But now, those involved in the Great Yu Empire''s market in this Tianbeng n are not just those over a thousand people," Fan Yipin added.


    "A plot within a plot? Are you saying that the hidden ck hand is also sent by Zhong Shan?" the man in green widened his eyes.


    "Besides that, it''s hard to imagine other possibilities. With the Great Yu Empire''s vitality greatly damaged, victories must surely being on the battlefield. However, before long, Yi Yan should be able to turn the tide. You go back and continue to investigate. I''ll go ask Zhong Shan when the third step of the Tianbeng n will begin," Fan Yipin thought for a moment.


    "Alright!" the man in green immediately responded.


    Then, they split up. The man in green left Glorious City, while Fan Yipin went to meet Zhong Shan.


    Fan Yipin quickly found Zhong Shan, who was extremely busy outside, amidst the tumultuous world and the grand waves of the market. Zhong Shan, however, sat with Princess Qianyou in a pavilion, holding a fishing rod and fishing in the pond. It was a picture of an immortal couple, seemingly in a different world altogether.

 Chapter 329: The Collapse of Heaven II

    <h4>Chapter 329: The Copse of Heaven II</h4>


    "Fan Yipin, pays respects to Princess Qianyou and to Dongfang Hou," Fan Yipin said respectfully.


    "Oh, Mr. Fan!" Zhong Shan turned his head and smiled, gently cing down his fishing rod.


    "Mm," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    "Please have a seat, Mr. Fan," Zhong Shan gestured for Fan Yipin to sit down.


    Shortly after, servants brought in some tea.


    "I wonder what brings Mr. Fan here?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Princess Qianyou also fixed her gaze on Fan Yipin.


    Fan Yipin nced at Princess Qianyou and then at Zhong Shan with a smile. "The outside world is bustling with activity, with every court and everynd in a flurry of activity. Only Dongfang Hou seems the most leisurely here."


    "Hehe, I have nothing much to do here, naturally at leisure!" Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "Someone just reported to me that Dongfang Hou''s Tianbeng n, the second step, has been fully sessful. The effects were stronger than initially anticipated. I admire it," Fan Yipin said, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Hehe, this is our collective effort," Zhong Shan shook his head with a smile.


    "Reports from the front lines of the Great Yu Empire say that the four armies have achievedplete victories, sweeping through cities and territories effortlessly," Fan Yipin continued.


    "Oh, that''s good news. Keep up the good work!" Zhong Shan replied.


    Princess Qianyou smiled faintly on the side, seeing that the two were ying a guessing game with each other but not revealing it.


    "Hehe, hasn''t Dongfang Hou noticed that Yi Yan has left the front lines?" Fan Yipin smiled slightly.


    Seeing Fan Yipin bring it up directly, Zhong Shan no longer yed games and smiled faintly. "Wouldn''t it be better this way?"


    "Indeed, it''s better. However, this once-in-a-lifetime copse of the Great Yu Empire will bergely remedied by Yi Yan in about four months at most. He might regain control of a dozen or so cities. It will be difficult to attack afterwards," Fan Yipin stared at Zhong Shan.


    "Mr. Fan, rest assured, if Yi Yan wants to regain control, it''s toote," Zhong Shan said with absolute certainty.


    "Toote?" Fan Yipin stared at Zhong Shan.


    "Yes, Yi Yan is strong, but even with his extraordinary methods, he was three months toote. At the moment the price of the Yu Shi fluctuated, he missed it and fell behind. If he tries to regain control, then we''ll give him another copse, a Copse of Heaven II," Zhong Shan said with absolute certainty.


    "Copse of Heaven II? Hehe, what a metaphor. But when will this begin?" Fan Yipin smiled and asked.


    "We must maximize the desire of the Great Yu people for Yu Shi. Two months from now, the third step of the Tianbeng n!" Zhong Shan said with absolute certainty.


    "Good, then Fan Yipin will wait and see!" Fan Yipin smiled. After saying that, he got up and very tactfully did not continue to disturb Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Watching Fan Yipin''s departing figure, Zhong Shan''s expression turned serious.


    "Sir, don''t underestimate Fan Yipin! He is the first strategist of the Great Xuan King," Princess Qianyou said to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan frowned, and it wasn''t until Fan Yipin''s figure waspletely out of sight that he spoke, "I have never underestimated him. He is straightforward as well as profound. Fan Yipin looks ordinary, and it''s precisely because he looks ordinary that he is extraordinary."


    Two monthster, in the Imperial Pce Council Hall of the Sky City in the Great Yu Empire...


    "Your Majesty, although Yu Shi in Sky City is still expensive, it''s still better than having no goods at all," Yi Yan spoke up.


    "Minister Yi, you have worked hard," Emperor Nn said.


    "It''s what I should do," Yi Yan replied respectfully.


    "General, you''re truly a remarkable individual. With a singlemand, nearby sects have alle forth with their stockpiles to supply the market," eximed a minister.


    "Yes, indeed!"


    "It''s all thanks to the General''s prestige and reputation. Only because of him are those sects and external ns willing to be so generous."


    ....... The courtiers continued to sing praises of Yi Yan.


    "Yes, as long as we hold out for another half year," sighed Yi Yan.


    "Half a year will pass in the blink of an eye. With the General, what can''t be aplished?" another minister praised again.


    Yi Yan paid no attention to these tterers but turned to Emperor Nn and said, "Your Majesty, the siege of Sky City has been resolved. Next, we need to persuade over a hundred other cities. I have already dispatched numerous respected individuals to persuade the major sects in various cities. However, peace within the Great Yu Empire won''t be restored for another two months."


    "Yu Shi, so many Yu Shi, disappearing without a trace like this?" Emperor Nn took a deep breath.


    "Your Majesty, after the spection on Yu Shi, the market didn''t copse until a monthter. During this month, if we transport them with full effort, it shouldn''t be difficult," a minister said.


    "No, that''s not it," another minister shook his head.


    "With so many Yu Shi, it''s absolutely impossible to quietly transport them out of the Great Yu Empire. Even if it''s possible for cities on the edge, it''s definitely impossible for cities deep within the empire. It''s too rushed. Unless all of them are transformed into storage bracelets," another minister said.


    "But turning them into spatial equipment, every time you destroy the equipment to retrieve Yu Shi, half of the space disappears without a trace. Who would bear such a huge cost? Thetest Yu Shi spatial equipment is thergest; every time it''s turned into a personal storage and then returned to Yu Shi, half of its space is lost, which is not a small amount but a veryrge number," another minister shook his head.


    "But, losses are losses, as long as they are all transported out, they will still have half the profits. If it is found out early, there will be no profits." The minister before shook his head.


    "No, it''s not easy for Yu Shi to disappear. Find a ce to bury it and find a ce to drown it in the sea. As long as you don''t see it, your mind doesn''t notice it, just like that," Yi Yan shook his head.


    "Bury? The General means that the endless Yu Shi is still in the Great Yu Empire?" the minister suddenly became excited.


    "It''s definitely in the Great Yu Empire," Yi Yan said with certainty.


    "Then let''s send troops to find it quickly. Once we find it, the price of Yu Shi will stabilize!" a minister said.


    "Yes, find it, dig three feet under the ground, and you will find it!" the ministers immediately echoed.


    Emperor Nn also showed a trace of hope in his eyes. In the hall, the ministers were excited, discussing one after another.


    "Not good!" Yi Yan suddenly shouted.


    Yi Yan suddenly widened his eyes and eximed, causing everyone in the court to stop talking abruptly.


    "Not good? What happened? What''s wrong?"


    Looking at Yi Yan''s dazed expression, no one dared to disturb him because all the courtiers knew what Yi Yan had thought of and was rapidly deducing the possibility.


    Seeing Yi Yan in a daze, sweat beading on his forehead, the courtiers became worried too.


    What exactly has happened that has made the General so worried��


    At the same time, in the City Lord''s Mansion on the Floating Ind in the Radiant City, Zhong Shan looked down at the constantly moving crowd below.


    Behind him stood Shui Wuhuan, Zhao Chuan, Fan Yipin, and a group of generals.


    Looking at the sky, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said, "The time hase!"


    Hearing what Zhong Shan said, Fan Yipin raised his eyebrows. The generals looked puzzled.


    Turning his head, Zhong Shan looked at Fan Yipin and said, "Mr. Fan, my tasks are allpleted. Immediately, the third step of the Heaven Copse n, Heaven Copse Two-fold Heaven, is to begin. Please return to Da Xuan City and inform the Great Xuan King. In one month, Heaven Copse Three-fold Heaven willpletely overthrow the Great Yu Empire. We must act decisively without stopping!"


    "Understood, Lord Dongfang''smand!" Fan Yipin respectfully bowed to Zhong Shan.


    Then, Fan Yipin swiftly departed from Radiant City with his entourage, heading towards a distant destination.


    "General, what is this Heaven Copse n?" Shui Wuhuan looked at Zhong Shan with confusion.


    "The Heaven Copse n aims to overthrow the Great Yu Empire. Zhao Chuan, follow my orders," Zhong Shan dered loudly.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan was momentarily surprised but immediately responded.


    "At the Grand Illumination Battlefield, we cannot afford any mistakes. Zhao Chuan, lead the First Battalion of the Great Xuan Army and forty thousand guards to defend against the Xiao Wang Army''s attacks. Just focus on defense; there''s no need to achieve any new merits!" Zhong Shan ordered, handing Zhao Chuan a military token.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan responded immediately, still somewhat puzzled.


    "Shui Wuhuan, Liu Wushuang, follow my orders," Zhong Shan suddenly called out.


    "Yes!" The two of them were also slightly taken aback but promptly responded.


    "Shui Wuhuan will lead as the vanguard, Liu Wushuang as the deputy general,manding fifty thousand Wolf Cavalry and six hundred thousand elite armored soldiers. Head eastward toward the Great Yu Empire, capturing cities and forts. Along the way, handle the chaos swiftly as I have taught you before. Swiftly, swiftly, swiftly. Your target is Sky City!" Zhong Shan ordered and handed a military token to Shui Wuhuan.


    "Yes!" The two of them were briefly stunned but quickly acknowledged.


    In Sky City, Yi Yan finally realized.


    "Guards!" Yi Yan shouted in the court.


    Emperor Nn Piaoxue frowned on the throne.


    Soon, a dozen or so soldiers apanying Yi Yan rushed into the hall.


    "General!" The dozen or so soldiers immediately bowed to Yi Yan upon entering the hall.


    Seeing these soldiers only bowing to Yi Yan, Emperor Nn Piaoxue''s expression turned increasingly unpleasant.


    "Go and investigate within the city immediately! See if there''s any significant rumor or news spreading. Find out the source, quickly, quickly, quickly!" Yi Yan repeated "quickly" three times in evident anxiety.


    "Yes!" The soldiers hurriedly ran out of the hall.


    Meanwhile, the courtiers patiently waited. Everyone realized that something terrible might have happened��a situation moreplex and challenging to handle than the previous market turmoil.

 Chapter 330: Chaos in People鈥檚 Hearts

    <h4>Chapter 330: Chaos in People''s Hearts</h4>


    In a remote corner of the Sky City, inside a tavern:


    "Do you guys know? Both Sky City and other cities of Da Yu are experiencing economic copse," a drunken man said.


    "Sure, who doesn''t know that?"


    "No, I mean, there''s a mastermind behind it stirring up chaos in the market of Da Yu Dynasty. Do you know who it is?" the drunken man asked.


    "A mastermind? Who?"


    "Who else could single-handedly cause such havoc across the Da Yu Dynasty other than the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty!" the drunken man chuckled.


    "Yeah, that''s right!"


    "However, with the Governor General around, things will soon be back to normal."


    "That''s just part of it. Do you know how much spirit stones and cosmic stones Great Luo took away from Da Yu this time?" the drunken man continued.


    "Now nearly a third of the poption has left the cities. Everyone knows it''s a terrifying figure."


    "Yeah, these masterminds have taken away so much money. If caught, they will surely face severe punishment!"


    "Spirit stones can be taken away, but cosmic stones cannot!" the drunken man said incoherently.


    "Oh?"


    "What do you mean?"


    "To take away cosmic stones quietly, you have to turn them into storage bracelets. But the cost is too high. Once made into bracelets, destroying them to retrieve the cosmic stones would result in losing half of the space. Who would be willing to do that?" the drunken man shook his head.


    "So what are you suggesting?"


    "Cosmic stones are still within the boundaries of Da Yu!" the drunken man pointed out.


    "What? Still within Da Yu?"


    "Yes, it''s rumored that endless cosmic stones are buried in certain ces within Da Yu. That''s an immense quantity. If one gets those cosmic stones, there would be no more worries in cultivation. One could even establish a small kingdom and rule over it," the drunken man said longingly.


    The people in the tavern exchanged nces and then turned their gaze back to the drunken man.


    "Treasure? Haha, my friend, you must be joking. How could the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty possibly bury cosmic stones within Da Yu? Even if they made them into storage bracelets and took them away, even if only half of the space remained, they wouldn''t bury them in Da Yu," someone replied.


    "Do you think I''m lying to you? Do you know how many there are? Not to mention the 150 cities in Da Yu, even in Sky City alone, there are as many cosmic stones as there are tall mountains. Do you know how many that is? Because of their confidence, Great Luo Dynasty buried them in ces unknown to others, nning to retrieve themter!" the drunken man said angrily.


    "Hehe, I don''t believe it!"


    "Do you know the Zhao family who runs the ''Stork Tower'' in the city?" the drunken man asked urgently.


    "I do, the eldest son of the Zhao family is a captain in the southern part of the city."


    "Haha, good to know. Do you know what the Zhao family found? They''ve discovered a treasure trove withrge quantities of cosmic stones, which have been brought back to Sky City and are now being sold outside. Go and see for yourself how much profit the Zhao family has made!" the drunken manughed.


    "The Zhao family found a treasure trove?"


    "Do you think I''m lying to you? Go and see for yourself. The truth is out there!" With that, the drunken man copsed onto the table.


    In the tavern, after hearing these words, people discussed fervently, their hearts filled with both anticipation and skepticism about the future.


    Inside a tavern, the patrons exchanged nces, and soon after, in just a short while, the previously bustling tavern emptied outpletely.


    At this moment, the drunken man ''woke up'', nced at the slightly dazed shopkeeper, and staggered out.


    Sky City erupted intomotion.


    At the Stork Tower of the Zhao Family, a treasure trove was discovered �� the cosmic stones that had been swindled from the Da Yu Dynasty through economic means were found in the "Great Ink Gorge," located three million miles outside Sky City.


    By rights, this treasure trove belonged to the Zhao Family.


    After retrieving it, the Zhao Family sold the cosmic stones at market prices, and they were quickly snapped up.


    Twenty million, they sold twenty million top-grade spirit stones.


    It was a terrifying amount. Even if the Zhao Family continued to squander for a thousand years, they would never exhaust their wealth.


    Although the quantity of cosmic stones found was only one-eighth of what Sky City possessed in its prime, even one-eighth was an astonishing number.


    Twenty million spirit stones!


    Those who heard this news couldn''t help but swallow nervously.


    If this was just one-eighth of Sky City''s holdings, what about the other seven-eighths? No, not just Sky City, but the other cities as well. One hundred fifty cities in total �� how much would that be?


    Many people''s eyes turned red. The news spread throughout the city in an instant. Almost everyone was trying to find out how they had been discovered and whether there were any treasures left.


    Meanwhile, the head of the Zhao Family was summoned by the Governor General.


    Inside the imperial pce, in the main hall, Yi Yan anxiously awaited, as did the court officials. Emperor Nn Piaoxue frowned in anticipation.


    Finally, after waiting for a long time, Yi Yan received the bad news he had feared. It had finallye!


    The discovery of the treasure by the Zhao Family was understandable, and all the court officials considered it reasonable.


    "Master Zhao, how did you discover this treasure?" Yi Yan asked sternly, looking at the middle-aged Zhao Family head.


    "That day, I was walking in the mountains and came across two corpses in a valley. I was curious and went to investigate. I happened to see one of them holding a parchment map. I took a look and saw a red dot on it. The location was familiar to me. Later, I led a team to explore and found these cosmic stones at the bottom of a sea in a vast ocean!" the Zhao Family head exined.


    "A treasure map?" The court officials exchanged nces. Wasn''t this Zhao Family head too lucky?


    Only Yi Yan suddenly looked up with a helpless and dismayed expression. This was bad, really bad!


    "Yi Yan, what''s wrong?" Nn Piaoxue asked in a deep voice.


    "The sky is copsing!" Yi Yan smiled bitterly.


    "A treasure map?"


    From the servants of the Zhao Family, the people of the whole city suddenly heard this strange news. Wasn''t this Zhao Family head too lucky?


    Twenty thousand top-grade spirit stones, found just by walking around in the mountains?


    While the entire city was still astonished, suddenly, the Zhou Family''s Inn, the Zhou Family, waspletely wiped out. During the people''s attention, a servant-like figure from the Zhou Family timidly came out. Thest servant of the Zhou Family.


    This servant revealed explosive news to Sky City.


    The head of the Zhou Family had also, by chance, obtained a sheepskin treasure map. However, before the news could leak, the person was killed and the map stolen.


    Treasure?


    Everyone was stunned by this revtion.


    But before people could even think about what to do next, the bandits who massacred the Zhou Family were caught, yet the treasure map had been taken away by someone else.


    Whose hands was it in now?


    Outside Sky City, a group of twenty people swiftly flew westward.


    "Brother, is this the treasure map? Twenty million top-grade spirit stones! Once we get them, we''ll be set for life in cultivation."


    "Twenty million? Who knows, this map might be worth forty million! Hahaha!"


    "Hahahaha!"


    Excited, the group sped off with the stolen map.


    Although they had seized the Zhou Family''s treasure map, within Sky City, numerous identical maps suddenly appeared.


    Uniform in style, uniform in content.


    The maps that had previously caused frenzy were now met with indifference; no one knew if they were real or fake. Besides this set, hundreds of different versions of treasure maps flooded out like mushrooms after rain.


    Hundreds of treasure maps?


    The maps depicted very small areas, making them extremely obscure. Even if you had a map, you would only recognize one or two ces.


    Before long, the treasure maps became a joke!


    However, ten dayster, when the group of twenty returned with several mountains of cosmic stones, everyone was dumbfounded once again.


    Treasure? Where did this treasuree from?


    Although they had only exchanged them for ten million top-grade spirit stones, these few mountains of cosmic stones were enough.


    When everyone inquired about the location of the treasure andpared it with the maps they had obtained before, they realized they were the same.


    People went crazy! Everyone in the city went crazy.


    "Why was I so stupid? Why didn''t I go for the treasure myself? Why did I let others take it? Ten million spirit stones!"


    This was a real treasure. Many people pped themselves hard.


    What about the other maps?


    Regardless of whether people had the ability, they left, they left the city in droves!


    Unknown to many, ten days earlier, Yi Yan had sent out arge number of reliable troops to explore the locations indicated on the maps.


    Not every map was real, but at least one-third of them were. That was enough to drive countless people crazy.


    Sky City was like this, and so were the other cities of the Da Yu Dynasty.


    Yi Yan sat somewhat dejectedly in his mansion. He could manage the chaos in Sky City, but what about the more than one hundred and fifty cities of the Da Yu Dynasty?


    They had gone mad. The cities of the Da Yu Dynasty were all going mad.


    Themon people were rushing out of the cities. "Treasure, everywhere treasure!" Everyone had hundreds of different treasure maps in their hands. There must be some real ones. Because, every now and then, someone woulde back with treasure! This wasn''t a hoax; the treasure they brought back was real.


    The people disrupted the cities, they were leaving the cities! But weren''t the armies people too? Every city, the variousmandants stared at the mountains of cosmic stones brought back and looked at their own treasure maps.


    "Damn it, brothers, follow me. I know this ce. Let''s go and get it back. We''ll strike it rich!"


    "General, the Governor-General has strict orders. We''re not allowed to..."


    "Has your brain been kicked by a donkey? With twenty million spirit stones in our pockets, what can''t we do? Damn it, if you won''t go, we will!"


    "General, I didn''t say I wouldn''t go!"


    This was just one scene in one city. In the Da Yu Dynasty, in many cities, greed was rampant.


    Treasure, there was so much treasure. Everyone had hundreds of maps, and one-third of them were real, which was enough. The Da Yu Dynasty had gone crazy! People''s hearts were in turmoil!


    Once people''s hearts were in turmoil, it was difficult to restore them.


    After nearly half a year of catalysis, the Da Yu Dynasty''s desire for cosmic stones and spirit stones had reached an extremely high level, from the city lords to themon people!


    At the highest peak, a sharp sword of "treasure" suddenly shed through a mouthful, causing countless people''s hearts to copse in just a moment.


    What was even more clever was that cosmic stones and spirit stones, these two urgently needed items, were presented in the form of cosmic stones. This was a symbol of bing rich overnight. Instead of dividing them equally among everyone, Zhongshan used the situation of treasure to trend everyone''s way.


    This was the second step of the Tian Beng n, turmoil in people''s hearts, the dispersal of fortresses, and the oil exhausted and themp withered!

 Chapter 331: The Collapse of Heaven鈥檚 Three Layers

    <h4>Chapter 331: The Copse of Heaven''s Three Layers</h4>


    In the city of Daxuan, beneath the Lord''s Manor, an endless army stood in perfect formation despite the biting cold wind, their hearts filled with unwavering determination.


    Above the floating isle of the Lord''s Manor, the generals stood respectfully, awaiting the appearance of the King of Daxuan.


    Inside the central hall, the King of Daxuan sat at themand table, surrounded by a group of advisors. Leading them was the chief advisor, Fan Yipin, who stood at the forefront to report to the King.


    "My lord," Fan Yipin began, "I have been in Guanghui City for a year and a half now. Regarding Zhongshan, have you discerned anything?"


    "Not yet," the King of Daxuan replied, his gaze fixed on Fan Yipin.


    "Nothing? Is he more astute than Duke Qitian?" the King of Daxuan inquired further.


    "He may not be as intelligent as Duke Qitian, but within a hundred years, Duke Qitian will never surpass him!" Fan Yipin asserted confidently.


    "Oh?" A hint of surprise flickered in the King of Daxuan''s eyes.


    "Because he has an advantage��a significant one that Duke Qitiancks, ensuring his invincibility before Duke Qitian," Fan Yipin said solemnly.


    "An advantage?" the King of Daxuan pressed.


    "Yes, my lord. This kind of advantage is rare, only seen in Your Majesty, the princes, and the Emperor himself. It''s exceedingly difficult for Your Majesty to control Zhongshan," Fan Yipin affirmed.


    "Hmm." The King of Daxuan nodded thoughtfully.


    Having understood the situation, the King of Daxuan rose slowly.


    Suddenly, the doors of the grand hall swung open.


    Amid the reverent gazes of the generals, the King of Daxuan walked slowly to the edge of the floating isle, overlooking the vast multitude of soldiers.


    As the soldiers caught sight of the King of Daxuan, they too looked on in silent reverence.


    "The time for the decisive battle with the Great Yu Empire hase. The Great Yu Empire, a mere vassal state, dares to defy our might. Today, I shall personally lead the expedition against the Great Yu Empire, bolstered by ten additional armies, aiming to capture their Sky City!" the King of Daxuan dered loudly.


    "Roar~~~~~~"


    "Roar~~~~~~"


    "Roar~~~~~~"


    ... A thunderous roar erupted from the generals.


    The King of Daxuan''s personal campaign against the Great Yu Empire was about to begin!


    Meanwhile, on the former battleground of the Great Yu Empire, four armies advanced: Zhongshan dispatched one, while the King of Daxuan sent ten, fifteen in total, pressing forward against the Great Yu Empire on all fronts!


    Zhongshan, Princess Qianyou, Ada, and A''er headed towards the army led by Shui Wuheng. As for Zhihuo, Zhongshan had instructed him to march with the main army. Zhihuo''s mission was to protect Shui Wuheng, Liang Wushuang, and Zhihuo''s own son.


    "Sir, why aren''t you leading troops?" Princess Qianyou frowned at Zhongshan.


    "Shui Wuheng is a talent in the making, but still too green. He needs more tempering," Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Are you using the Great Yu battleground to train troops?" Princess Qianyou teased.


    "Partially true," Zhongshan didn''t deny.


    "Then why build such a powerful army?" Princess Qianyou asked Zhongshan.


    "What do you think?" Zhongshan turned to Princess Qianyou.


    Zhongshan looked over, Princess Qianyou frowned, then her eyebrows rxed, and nodded,


    Upon seeing Princess Qianyou''s understanding, Zhongshan nodded with a smile.


    "The Copse n, Step Four!" Princess Qianyou gazed towards some wandering Great Yu civilians who were searching for treasures far away.


    Copse of the First Layer of Heaven! Economic Copse!


    Copse of the Second Layer of Heaven! Chaos in the Hearts of Men!


    Copse of the Third Layer of Heaven! Heaven''s Soldiers Overthrown!


    "The cities of the Great Yu Empire have already decayed, so now we need swift action, the swiftest action, the strongest action! We are currently on the fourth step!" Zhongshan nodded, smiling.


    "The Copse n is truly magnificent, each step earth-shaking! Sir, is there still a fifth step?" Princess Qianyou sighed in admiration as she looked at Zhongshan.


    "Yes, there is still a fifth step, but whether it will seed depends on fate!" Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    In the Sky City, within a side hall of the imperial pce.


    Nn Piaoxue gazed at Yi Yan, bloodshot eyes reflecting concern.


    "Your Majesty, the hearts of the people are in turmoil, even the military''s morale is crumbling. I cannot stay here any longer; I must immediately head to the front lines. Only by going to the front lines can I offer some resistance," Yi Yan said with a worried expression.


    "Is it that serious?" Nn Piaoxue frowned.


    "Yes, I am certain. King Daxuan hasmitted all avable forces,unching a full-scale assault on our cities. The morale of our cities and military has copsed; they cannot withstand it. If I do not go, within three years, they will breach the Sky City," Yi Yan stated.


    "Can our Great Yu military really be so feeble?" Nn Piaoxue refused to believe.


    "No, it has decayedpletely. In just over a year, it has be utterly weak and vulnerable. Your Majesty, every prediction I have made hase true. Perhaps, the war on the front lines has already begun," Yi Yan affirmed confidently.


    Nn Piaoxue took a deep breath, staring at Yi Yan with a furrowed brow, forming the shape of the character ��.


    "Do you have a strategy?" Nn Piaoxue asked solemnly.


    "A strategy? Heh, this time, the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty''s n is ruthless��the extermination policy. There is no good strategy; only some clumsy methods have been implemented. I have already written letters, sending them to the Great Guang Dynasty and Xiao Wangzhi, urgently requesting reinforcements. I will go to the front lines and defend the city of Dayu. It''s a crucial checkpoint; if we can block the formidable troops of the Great Luo Dynasty at Dayu City, we may have a chance of survival!" Yi Yan exined.


    "Dayu City? Won''t we lose dozens of cities in front?" Nn Piaoxue''s eyes narrowed.


    "Yes, we will definitely lose them. The troops of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty are like a tsunami. Dayu City is a gate; we must block them here. I have already sent letters to various city lords, instructing them to follow my arrangements," Yi Yan replied.


    "When will the Great Guang Dynasty arrive?" Nn Piaoxue inquired.


    "Great Guang? Heh, Your Majesty, although I have sent letters, do not count on them. We must also be cautious of them," Yi Yan cautioned.


    "Cautious?" Nn Piaoxue frowned.


    "Yes, the Great Yu Empire is currently in a mess. Though they say ''when lips are gone, teeth are cold'', this time, the Great Yu Empire is in such a dire state that even if they bring troops to rescue us, it may not save us. And if they do manage to save us, it will only drag down the roots of the Great Guang Dynasty. Therefore, they dare not send full reinforcements. We must wait and see if we can stand on our own. Dayu City is the key; if I can halt the troops of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty there, they will dispatch reinforcements. If I cannot stop them..." Yi Yan furrowed his brow.


    "If you cannot stop them, what then?" Nn Piaoxue asked sternly.


    "If I cannot stop them, the cities of the Great Yu Empire will fall to the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty instead of the Great Guang Dynasty. They will send troops to swallow up those neighboring cities adjacent to us!" Yi Yan concluded.


    Yi Yan spoke the truth��between the two dynastiesy an alliance of interests, yet also a cruel reality.


    Taking a deep breath, Nn Piaoxue said in a solemn voice, "Very well, I understand. I wish you victory, General."


    "Yes, Your Majesty, however, before I depart, there is one more matter I hope Your Majesty will agree to," Yi Yan continued.


    "Speak," Nn Piaoxue replied.


    "Although Your Majesty reigns as the emperor of a dynasty, with a single decree, a million corpses may fall. However, amidst the current turmoil of the Great Yu Empire, I implore Your Majesty to refrain from further bloodshed. Stirring the anger of the people, who are the foundation of the dynasty, especially at this time, would be disastrous. We cannot afford any more bloodshed that could be exploited by those with ill intentions," Yi Yan earnestly advised.


    "Rest assured, at this critical juncture, I am well aware of the gravity of the situation," Nn Piaoxue assured him.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty. I take my leave," Yi Yan said.


    "Take care," Nn Piaoxue bid him farewell.


    In the Great Guang Dynasty, at the camp of Xiao Wangzhi, within a grand hall.


    Xiao Wangzhi sat at themand table, holding a letter which he read, with several generals standing by his sides.


    After reading the letter, Xiao Wangzhi took a deep breath and closed his eyes in contemtion.


    "Father Commander, is this truly a letter from Yi Yan?" Xiao Yuandeng was the first to speak up.


    Xiao Wangzhi did not reply immediately, remaining deep in thought. He extended his hand and passed the letter over. Xiao Yuandeng swiftly took it, read it, and passed it on to the other generals in the hall.


    "Sigh~~~~~~~~~~"


    Xiao Wangzhi exhaled deeply, then opened his eyes.


    "Father Commander, should we not go to rescue the Great Yu Empire? When lips are gone, teeth are cold. Once the Great Yu Empire falls, our Great Guang Dynasty will face even greater hardships," Xiao Yuandeng suggested.


    "Lips and teeth? Heh, it depends on the state of those ''lips''. These lips have already developed numerous festering sores and are riddled with holes. Can they still recover? If not, would it be worth sacrificing the teeth to block the wind, only to end up with apletely dead lip? During this period, the teeth may also be corroded by the festering sores on the lip, causing more harm than good!" Xiao Wangzhi shook his head.


    "Father Commander, are we just going to watch the Great Yu Empire copse?" Xiao Yuanfeng furrowed his brow.


    "The corruption within the Great Yu Empire runs deep��it''s a corruption of the entire popce, not just individual cities or towns. Even Yi Yan, as skilled as he is, may not be able to turn the tide. However, we must still give it a chance. Let''s see what Yi Yan can do. If he can block the vast army of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty from the Great Yu Empire, then we will intervene. If he cannot..." Xiao Wangzhi''s eyes turned cold.


    "Understood!" The generals responded immediately.

 Chapter 332: Central Military Tent

    <h4>Chapter 332: Central Military Tent</h4>


    "Father Commander, if we''re not going to the Great Yu Empire''s battlefield now, shall we charge against the invading forces of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty?" Xiao Yuanfeng said.


    "We mustn''t. The Great Yu battlefield, although it seems to have many cities, changes too rapidly. Early encounters with cities are bound to have sparse defenses, and we''ll quickly lose many cities! It''s ever-changing, and we must prepare to face the Great Yu Empire''s battlefield at any moment," Xiao Wangzhi said.


    "Yes!" Xiao Yuanfeng promptly responded.


    "However, we still need small units to harass. Yuanfeng, I want you to lead a million troops to attack and probe the strengths and weaknesses of the Great Luo garrisons," Xiao Wangzhi continued.


    "Yes!" Xiao Yuanfeng replied eagerly��


    Copse��this was the only way to describe the battlefield of the Great Yu Empire.


    Under the leadership of Shui Wuheng, one army captured the first city in just twenty-five days. It was incredibly fast, leaving Shui Wuheng with feelings he couldn''t dare to imagine.


    They suffered a loss of twenty thousand troops, but considering the circumstances, it was rtively minor. In less than a month.


    Shui Wuheng was extremely excited, employing methods taught by Zhongshan in the past to quickly pacify the city and promptly report to the Grand Marshal of the Da Xuan Kingdom.


    It wasn''t just Shui Wuheng''s army that advanced smoothly. The other fourteen routes of the army were equally smooth, to an unbelievable extent. All it took was less than a month to capture one city.


    In one month, they captured fifteen cities. Their might was overwhelming!


    The defeated enemy fell too quickly!


    After pacifying the city, Shui Wuheng immediately led his troops towards the next city. It wasn''t just Shui Wuheng; the other fourteen armies were equally sessful, advancing smoothly all the way.


    The defending army? A joke. Only a small portion remained, with some still out searching for treasures and not returning. Moreover, upon seeing the arrival of therge army, the remaining defenders realized their leaders were gone (searching for treasures). What was there to fight for? Before the enemy arrived, their hearts were already timid, and they quickly fled!


    With nomanders, the morale of the troops had long since dissipated. The battles were mere skirmishes against a few agitators. It was incredibly smooth.


    The second city, having learned from the first, had a much better-prepared city lord and stronger defenses. However, being stronger was futile. Including travel time, it only took three months to capture the second city.


    Since Zhongshan''s orders began, Shui Wuheng had captured two cities within six months!


    Shui Wuheng was incredibly excited. He never knew he could be this powerful in battle.


    Shui Wuheng''s great victory was mirrored by the other fourteen armies of the Great Luo forces. They had never experienced such a smooth campaign. Were these really the supposedly impregnable cities? The ease with which they were captured was astonishing.


    Fifteen cities once again!


    Grand Marshal Da Xuan was satisfied as he reviewed the battle reports. It was all within his expectations. Excellent!


    Simrly, half a month ago, Grand Marshal Da Xuan issued orders once again: attack the cities, continue, and don''t give the Great Yu Empire any chance to catch their breath.


    Another monthter, Shui Wuheng''s army arrived at the location of the third city!


    The first city took Shui Wuheng twenty-five days. The second took seventy-five days. For the third city, Shui Wuheng was prepared to spend a hundred days to capture it.


    However, after a round of fierce fighting, Shui Wuheng immediately ordered a withdrawal.


    This was too unusual! The third city was mysterious! Why did it feel like there were hardly any defenses?


    Shui Wuheng was cautious, fearing an enemy ambush. But after waiting for five or six days, there was still no response from the city.


    After careful consideration, Shui Wuheng decided to go all-in andunch a full-scale attack on the city.


    Two dayster, Shui Wuren stood solemnly atop the floating ind of the City Lord''s mansion. Was this city truly deserted? Was this feeble defense all they had left?


    He seized amanding officer. "Where are your people? How can you defend with so few?" Shui Wuren''s eyes zed.


    "General, a month ago, most of our defenders were reassigned elsewhere!" the officer confessed.


    "Reassigned? By whom?" Shui Wuren demanded.


    "They say... it was the Grand Commander''s order!" the officer divulged immediately.


    "Yi Yan?" Shui Wuren raised an eyebrow.


    Regardless, following Zhongshan''s teachings, he swiftly reassured the city and reinforced defenses, dispatching troops to report the battle''s oue to the Grand King of Daxuan.


    But this wasn''t just happening to Shui Wuren��each of the other fourteen armies faced the same fate.


    Another month passed, and at the fourth city, they encountered a simr situation: the garrison was gone, reced by a few weak defenders.


    In the tent of the Grand King of Daxuan, his expression was grim despite the numerous reports of victories. "Yi Yan''s audacity is unprecedented," he remarked.


    "Sixty cities, a gift from Yi Yan to us?" Grand King of Daxuan couldn''t hide his astonishment.


    "Instead of being divided and conquered, it seems wiser to sacrifice these sixty cities and regain absolute strength," Minister Fan remarked.


    "The challenges ahead will be formidable," the Grand King of Daxuan frowned.


    Indeed, when Shui Wuren arrived at the fifth city, he saw a huge ''Yi'' character emzoned on the city''s banners!


    Yi Yan?


    Seeing this g, Shui Wuren''s initial excitement turned to cold realization. Yi Yan, defending the city?


    Not only Shui Wuren, but the leaders of the other fourteen armies also faced cities adorned with Yi Yan''s banners.


    Fifteen armies, not just the generals but every soldier, beheld the sight of Yi Yan''s banner. In that moment, nearly everyone paused.


    This was Yi Yan, a name capable of intimidating millions!


    Yi Yan governed Dayoutai City, overseeing twenty surrounding cities, ready to reinforce any direction at a moment''s notice.


    Shui Wurenunched an assault, but as he approached the city walls, figures swarmed atop the towers��troops of Da Yu army, disciplined and prepared!


    First charge, repelled! Second charge, heavy losses! Third charge, a retreat sounded mid-battle!


    Watching the cities adorned with Yi Yan''s banners, Shui Wuren took a deep breath. No longer arrogant, the previous sesses seemed like a rushing river, until they hit a dam at the fifth city, abruptly halting their momentum.


    And that wasn''t all��just as Shui Wuren''s troops withdrew, a cavalry unit emerged from the rear. Were it not for the Wolf Cavalry''s intervention, Shui Wuren might have faced death!


    All fifteen armies now felt it: within these cities were countless soldiers, and surrounding the wilderness, countless morey in ambush. The slightestpse would invite swift reprisal.


    Three monthster, the fifteen armies made no progress, suffering frequent ambushes and heavy casualties.


    The Grand King of Daxuan''s fifteen armies had ground to a halt!


    Yi Yan had achieved his goal, though the cost was devastating: sixty cities. A terrifying toll indeed.


    Grand King''s Central Hall!


    Perched atop a mountain peak, it was the pce the Grand King carried with him wherever he went.


    Within the hall, the Grand King sat in hismanding seat. On one side were a group of strategists led by Minister Fan. On the other side stood Zhongshan, Ada, A''er, and Princess Qianyou.


    "Why, Qianyou, do you grace me with your presence today?" the Grand King chuckled at Qianyou.


    "I was traveling nearby and thought to visit Uncle. Must I report in?" Qianyou smiled.


    "You, this girl, you''re always wee here," the Grand King shook his head.


    "But Zhongshan, why have youe?" the Grand King fixed his gaze on Zhongshan.


    "To witness with the Grand King theplete copse of Da Yu!" Zhongshan smiled.


    Studying Zhongshan, the Grand King showed a hint of admiration and caution.


    "Dongfang Hou, can we begin the fifth step of the Tian Beng n?" Minister Fan asked from across.


    "I''ve already sent the message. One month from now, we officiallymence the fifth step of the Tian Beng n. When news of our victories reaches Sky City, during the nationwide celebrations of Da Yu Dynasty, we will extinguish theirst flicker of hope," Zhongshan dered.


    "And what about Xiao Wang?" the Grand King stared at Zhongshan.


    Watching the Grand King, Zhongshan smiled faintly. "Your Majesty, I believe you can notify Marshals Shuijing and Xiangbu on the Great Guang battlefield to prepare for the charge."


    "Are you sure Xiao Wang will shift the battlefield to Da Yu Dynasty, elerating its downfall?" the Grand King fixed his gaze on Zhongshan.


    "He definitely will!" Zhongshan affirmed.


    "Good!" the Grand Kingughed.


    Afterward, Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou were arranged in a more elegant courtyard.


    Inside the courtyard.


    "Sir, why have wee here?" Princess Qianyou stared at Zhongshan.


    "Why have Ie here? Don''t you know?" Zhongshan looked at Princess Qianyou with a hint of puzzlement.


    "I don''t!" Princess Qianyou shook her head.


    "Hmm? It seems there are some things His Majesty and the Crown Princes haven''t told you," Zhongshan furrowed his brow.


    "What?" Princess Qianyou also stared at Zhongshan.


    "Fate!" Zhongshan said.


    "Fate? Contesting fate?" Princess Qianyou looked surprised at Zhongshan.


    "Yes, just like two armymanders. Now, with the personal strength of the Grand King, he could single-handedly walk among millions of troops and decapitate Yi Yan. But he doesn''t. Why?" Zhongshan fixed his gaze on Princess Qianyou.


    "Because this is about dynastic fate, not just personal prowess. To seize the dynastic fate of Da Yu Dynasty, it must be won through a dynastic battle. Only by defeating them in such a manner can we continually seize their dynastic fate during the war. If we were to directly kill Yi Yan, it would scatter the dynastic fate, leaving thend empty and devoid of fate!" Princess Qianyou exined.


    "Exactly. As the core army of the Great Luo Empire, centered here, apart from seizing the dynastic fate for the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, our core army, in the end, all the generals can also follow the mandate of heaven and gain a small reward!" Zhongshan affirmed with a confident expression.


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 333: Collapse of the Four Heavens

    <h4>Chapter 333: Copse of the Four Heavens</h4>


    City Lord''s Mansion, Dayu City!


    The scenery remained tranquil with a pond at its heart, where Yi Yan scattered fish food, observing the pond''s inhabitants. Iron Blood dashed excitedly from a distance.


    "Commander-in-Chief, the flood from the Great Luo Empire has finally been stemmed!" Iron Blood eximed with excitement.


    "What''s happened?" Yi Yan frowned, looking towards Iron Blood.


    "They returned empty-handed. ording to your arrangements, the formations were set, but the fifteen routes of the Great Luo Empire all returned in defeat. It''s been over three months now. As per your words, Xiao Wang will definitely send reinforcements within a month," Iron Blood eximed.


    Yi Yan lightly wiped his palms with a towel, frowning deeply.


    "What''s wrong?" Iron Blood asked, puzzled.


    "Something''s not right, something''s definitely not right!" Yi Yan furrowed his brow.


    "What''s not right?" Iron Blood asked, puzzled.


    "Fifteen routes of the army, but look at thosemanders��they''re missing. Zhongshan is gone, Gulin is gone, and twomanders of the Great Luo Legion are also absent. Their lieutenants are leading the troops," Yi Yan squinted.


    "Well, it seems so, but under the Commander-in-Chief''s arrangements, even if they are there, what can they do? These twenty cities now seem to have merged into one whole. They can''t break through," Iron Blood remarked.


    "No, it''s not right. With them there, at least those routes wouldn''t suffer such a crushing defeat. Especially Zhongshan, his absence from the battlefield makes me worry they might cause trouble in our rear. Something just doesn''t feel right. I''ll immediately write a letter to His Majesty, hoping there won''t be any more surprises from that side," Yi Yan said ��


    Xiaowang''s Great Camp.


    Xiaowang sat at themand table. Various generals stood on both sides.


    Xiaowang held a letter in his hand, ncing at it before passing it to Xiaoyuan Feng and others to read.


    "Father Commander, Yi Yan has really held them off," Xiaoyuan Feng eximed in surprise.


    "But the price is too steep, isn''t it? Sixty cities, almost half of the cities of the Dayu Dynasty," Xiaoyuan Deng shook his head.


    "But in the end, we''ve turned the tide!" Xiaoyuan Feng said.


    "Turned the tide? Heh, let''s see," Xiaowang shook his head.


    "Father Commander, should we not send troops now?" Xiaoyuan Feng frowned.


    "Wait another month. If Yi Yan still holds them off, then we will go to their rescue!" Xiaowang said in a deep voice.


    "Yes!" the generals responded ��


    Sky City! In the court hall.


    Nn Piaoxue looked at the iing reports with a rare smile on his face.


    "Blessings upon Dayu, Your Majesty, the Grand Commander has finally halted the advance of the Great Luo Empire!" a minister congratted.


    "Your Majesty, all the Wishful Stones from the treasure maps have been retrieved by the people or the army. The market prices of Wishful Stones have all been restored. The people no longer leave the city to search for treasure. Everything has returned to its former glory. Dayu has recovered! Congrattions, Your Majesty!" another minister cheered.


    "Congrattions, Your Majesty!" the ministers echoed.


    Indeed, now Dayu Dynasty appeared to be flourishing once again, except for those sixty lost cities. The situation was overwhelmingly positive. Yi Yan had halted the Great Luo troops, and over ny cities had been restored. The people were no longer in disarray, and the army was reorganized and ready. Everything was announcing to the world that the former glory of Dayu had returned, the powerful Dayu had returned!


    "Good, Minister Zhu is right. Draft the documents immediately, proiming to the world of Dayu, let us unite against our enemies and defend together!" Nn Piaoxue was also in a great mood ��


    Is the situation of the Dayu Dynasty really all well and good? Perhaps only Nn Piaoxue feels this way. Although the Dayu Dynasty has found the Mustard Stones, what about the Spirit Stones? The lost Spirit Stones? While Spirit Stones can be borrowed, what about the people''s hearts? Simply finding treasures, without actual treasures to find, does that restore people''s hearts? Once the people''s hearts are lost, it will be very difficult to regain them.


    Take the city-defending generals, for example. They were once loyal and patriotic, but their morale has been lost. They dared to disobey military orders, abandon their posts, and defy imperialmands to search for treasures. Now that there are no treasures to be found, when they return to defend the city, if they see that they cannot withstand the enemy''s attack, will they be deserters again? Having experienced the first loss of morale, subsequent urrences will be much easier. At the very least, they will not resist as stubbornly as before.


    Emperor Nn''s decree quickly spread throughout the Sky City and radiated towards more distant cities.


    At the height of the Sky City''s celebration, the fifth step of the Sky Copse n was initiated!


    Zhu Cunli, whom Nn Piaoxue referred to as Zhu Aiqing, Minister of Rites of the Dayu Dynasty, Chief of the Zhu n in the Sky City, suddenly became a nominee!


    Not nominated by Nn Piaoxue, but nominated by the people.


    It''s unclear when, but suddenly, the people had a list in their hands.


    During the market changes, the Zhu Cunli family colluded with several merchants to inte prices. Many of Zhu''s descendants participated, earningrge amounts of Spirit Stones. This isn''t the key issue. The key lies in the maniption of Mustard Stone prices during this critical market copse. The Zhu family also invested heavily, inting Mustard Stone prices to acquire vast amounts of Spirit Stones, countless Spirit Stones.


    Furthermore, during this period, the Zhu Cunli family loanedrge sums of money to many people at exorbitant interest rates. As a result, numerous people still owe Zhu Cunlirge amounts of Spirit Stones and interest.


    A parasite of the nation? No, at that time, everyone was frenzied. How could the Zhu family miss such a good opportunity? Without Zhu Cunli''s initiative, the family''s descendants would have followed suit in a frenzy.


    Zhu Cunli only found outter that he was involved in the allocation of Spirit Stones during the Mustard Stone spection.


    However, this was sufficient, because every transaction, every moment of Spirit Stone flow, from beginning to end, was meticulously detailed.


    To what extent was this list detailed? Even Zhu''s own family might not have been able to produce such a detailed record of Spirit Stone transactions. What''s even more rare and valuable is that this detailed list waspiled from various people''s ounts without leaving any traces.


    During the Dayu Dynasty''s most perilous times, this official of the Dayu Dynasty took the lead in disrupting the national economy? If Zhu Cunli had informed His Majesty early on, would the Dayu market have copsed? How could the people have been driven to flee their homes? Even now, many people have left the cities due tock of Spirit Stones.


    A cmity, a cmity for the Sky City, a cmity for the Dayu Dynasty!


    Zhu Cunli!


    For a moment, countless people were filled with righteous indignation, unable to vent their resentment towards the Dayu Heavenly Dynasty, and instead focused it all on Zhu Cunli.


    Just two dayster, suddenly, a "People''s Petition" appeared, pleading with Emperor Nn to dismiss Zhu Cunli, to give the people justice, to give His Majesty justice, to give the Sky City justice, and to give the Dayu Dynasty justice.


    In an instant, Zhu''s family seemed to have be the enemy of the people, facing severe criticism.


    It''s unknown who first ced the "People''s Petition" on the square in front of the pce, where some people kneeled, begging Emperor Nn to punish Zhu Cunli and give the people justice.


    Before long, more people added their names, writing them on the "People''s Petition."


    Most of these people were those who owed money to Zhu''s family, the ones who initially borrowed Spirit Stones from them at high interest rates. Indeed, if the Zhu family were no more, would we still owe them money? This "cmity."


    Also included were friends brought along by those who owed Spirit Stones to Zhu''s family.


    Their numbers grew increasingly.


    Before long, the "People''s Petition" had grown to be the "Fifty Thousand People''s Petition."


    And there''s another strange phenomenon: the dozens of people who initially kneeled in front of the pce have slowly disappeared among the increasing crowd ofmoners kneeling. The number of people kneeling has increased, but the original ones are no longer there.


    "Bold! Zhu Cunli!" Nn Piaoxue shouted angrily.


    In the grand hall, the officials were as silent as cicadas in winter!


    "Your Majesty, I admit my guilt. It''s just that at the time, my sons begged me, so I agreed to make the loans. I did not participate in it myself," Zhu Cunli pleaded on his knees.


    "Humph! Zhu Cunli, the prestigious Minister of Rites, colluding with merchants, disrupting the Dayu market, causing people to be homeless. Now, with the people''s discontent boiling, usations are flying. Yet you show no remorse. The Dayu Dynasty was almost ruined by your hands!" Nn Piaoxue shouted furiously.


    In Nn Piaoxue''s view, if Zhu Cunli had reported the truth about the market, even without Yi Yan, one could discern something suspicious. Sixty cities were lost because of these corrupt officials!


    Yi Yan had said before leaving, "Do not incite public anger, do not defy!"


    "Guards, seize Zhu Cunli!" Nn Piaoxue shouted.


    "Yes!" A group of guards rushed into the hall and grabbed Zhu Cunli.


    "Your Majesty, I know I was wrong, please have mercy!" Zhu Cunli cried out for forgiveness.


    But Nn Piaoxue was furious.


    "Humph, mercy? Not only will I execute you, but I will also exterminate your entire n. I will issue an edict to inform the world and set an example!" Nn Piaoxue shouted angrily.


    "No~~~" Zhu Cunli screamed in horror.


    But he was dragged away by the guards.


    "Humph!" Nn Piaoxue flicked his sleeves and left the court!


    In the court, the officials dared not breathe heavily, bowing their bodies, waiting for Nn Piaoxue to leave.


    Zhu Cunli was executed. At the execution tform, the Zhu Cunli n was exterminated, a total of four hundred people, all beheaded with a singlemand.


    So many people witnessed it! Those who owed money to Zhu Cunli''s family couldn''t help but apud!


    Among those apuding were also the people arranged by Zhongshan.


    Zhu Cunli was dead! His nine ns were exterminated. Who''s next?


    Among the court officials, most of the families had participated in the Mustard Stone spection. Who could absolve themselves? If you don''t want others to know, don''t do it yourself. Themoners didn''t know much, but when the Sky Copse n was initiated, Zhongshan sent people to pay attention and gathered more than enough evidence.


    Zhu Cunli was just a precedent, an official involved to a limited extent. There were many more deeply involved who had yet to be exposed.


    Zhu Cunli''s nine ns,pletely wiped out!


    "Public anger" was extinguished. However, "public anger" could take many forms; however much was needed, Zhongshan could produce it.


    In the house of the Minister of Revenue, in thergest council chamber.


    "Master, Master, something''s not right. Look, these are some sudden documents circting in the market!" a servant handed over some papers to the master, who was the Minister of Revenue.


    After reading the papers, the Minister of Revenue''s eyes widened.


    "Father, what''s wrong?"


    "Yes, Lai Fu, what''s the news?"


    ...In the grand hall, everyone was puzzled. The master gently handed those papers to everyone, took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and sat down.


    Everyone looked through them in session! Their expressions turned panicked, nervous, incredibly nervous.


    "What should we do about this?"


    "What should we do? There must be someone deliberately targeting us. This evidence is even more detailed and extensive than the Zhu family''s. The Zhu family was wiped out, all nine ns... What..."


    The Zhu family members were filled with fear. Some of the more timid ones were trembling.


    After a flurry of voices, they all looked towards their patriarch.


    Taking a deep breath, the patriarch finally opened his eyes.


    "Father, what should we do?" one of them asked anxiously.


    Looking at everyone, the patriarch said, "It seems we cannot stay in Sky City any longer. Notify the whole n to prepare carefully. We will leave at the You hour!"


    "Leave at the You hour? Father..." the person asked anxiously.


    "We either face extermination by His Majesty or leave quickly. If we don''t leave now, we may never get another chance. With the vastness of the world, where won''t we find a ce for our n to survive? Go!" the patriarchmanded.


    "Yes!" the crowd responded in solemnity.


    Simr to the situation in the Minister of Revenue''s household, there were many more instances like this. On that day, numerous prestigious officials of the Dayu Dynasty suddenly received ample evidence of their ns facing confiscation and extermination.


    Escape! Among the n leaders, only a few pondered carefully and prepared to beg for forgiveness from His Majesty. Most fled overnight.


    The next morning, in the court, Nn Piaoxue looked at the officials arriving in small groups, slightly puzzled. But soon someone traced the source.


    Fleeing in fear of punishment?


    "Go on, keep fleeing! A bunch of useless worms, you''re draining our resources!" Emperor Nn shouted angrily.


    The court officials dared not interrupt, but they all sensed that something bad was about to happen.


    Emperor Nn left in anger. In his view, these officials were expendable. He could promote others to take their ce anytime. They were a bunch of puss-filled boils, incapable of achieving anything and only seeking to profit from the kindness of the previous emperor, exchanging it for wealth and power, ruining the court. They must be executed!


    As he reached the entrance to his pce, Emperor Nn suddenly stopped and said to a eunuch behind him, "Draft an edict for me. These traitors are all conspirators and traitors. They must all be executed, and a nationwide manhunt is dered!"


    "Yes!" responded the eunuch immediately��


    The court officials? Those who were part of the court? There were many more instances like this. On that day, numerous prestigious officials of the Dayu Dynasty suddenly received ample evidence of their ns facing confiscation and extermination.


    Escape! Among the n leaders, only a few pondered carefully and prepared to beg for forgiveness from His Majesty. Most fled overnight.


    The next morning, in court, Nn Piaoxue looked at the officials arriving in small groups, slightly puzzled. But soon someone traced the source.


    Fleeing in fear of punishment?


    "Go on, keep fleeing! A bunch of useless worms, you''re draining our resources!" Emperor Nn shouted angrily.


    The court officials dared not interrupt, but they all sensed that something bad was about to happen.


    Emperor Nn left in anger. In his view, these officials were expendable. He could promote others to take their ce anytime. They were a bunch of puss-filled boils, incapable of achieving anything and only seeking to profit from the kindness of the previous emperor, ruining the believed. unto asked ran.


    Iron Blood, filled with excitement, ran towards the main hall: "Commander-in-Chief, good news, good news! Xiao Wang''s messenger just arrived. He said they will send reinforcements the day after tomorrow!"


    With a face full of excitement, Iron Blood had finally endured through another month. There was hope for the Dayu Dynasty. The moment Iron Blood received the news, his first thought was to report to the Commander-in-Chief.


    Entering the main hall, however, what Iron Blood saw was Commander Yi Yan staring at a letter that had arrived from Sky City with a cold sweat on his forehead.


    Ignoring Iron Blood''s excitement, Yi Yan seemed indifferent.


    "Commander-in-Chief?" Iron Blood called tentatively.


    "It''s over. Sky City has fallen!" Yi Yan said dejectedly, tossing the letter aside.


    "Commander-in-Chief, what happened?" Iron Blood asked, astonished.


    Pushing the letter towards him, Iron Blood immediately grabbed and examined it.


    "It''s nothing. His Majesty did well, executed them well. Those useless people deserved to be purged long ago. We can promote new ones!" Iron Blood said excitedly as he read the letter.


    Looking at Iron Blood, Yi Yan shook his head reluctantly, showing a bitter smile, as if unsure of how to exin.


    "Commander-in-Chief, what''s wrong?" Iron Blood asked in confusion.


    "Purge? They should have been purged long ago, but not now. Absolutely not!" Yi Yan said.


    "Why?" Iron Blood asked, puzzled.


    "Because these people are no longer just court officials. They''ve be pawns of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty. Wherever they go, they spread the word that Sky City has fallen," Yi Yan said bitterly.


    "No way, they wouldn''t say such things, would they?" Iron Blood couldn''t believe it.


    "They won''t, but Zhongshan will!" Yi Yan shouted angrily.


    "Zhongshan? No, that can''t be! But everything is fine here!" Iron Blood was incredulous.


    "Everything might seem fine here, but this rumor will once again jeopardize nearly sixty cities. How do you think those city lords will react when they see these officials fleeing through their territories? When Zhongshan propagates this, it will be seen as confirmation that Sky City has fallen and the Dayu Dynasty is no more. What will those city lords do? They are already fragile after previous shocks. These rumors alone are enough to make them fearful. And if officials present themselves as ''evidence'' that Sky City has fallen, how can they not believe it? If at this time, officials from the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty suddenly appear to offer protection..." Yi Yan''s words grew more ominous.


    Listening to Yi Yan, Iron Blood stared, mouth agape, looking at him dumbfoundedly. "No way, it can''t be this coincidental, can it?"


    "It can, it definitely can. Because all of this has been orchestrated. Orchestrated... Oh, former emperor, I have failed to guide His Majesty!" Yi Yan''s expression turned somewhat manic.

 Chapter 334: Collapse

    <h4>Chapter 334: Copse</h4>


    On the tenth day of the march of the Xiao Wang army!


    As the army rested in a valley, inside a grand hall at the center, Xiao Wang examined the letters brought back by his scouts. Soldiers on either side waited expectantly.


    After reading through, Xiao Wang took a deep breath and sighed, "Nn Piaoxue, you''ve chosen the wrong path."


    "Huh?" the generals murmured in confusion.


    "Heh, Nn Piaoxue should have pursued the path of umting Yin virtues, not the path of seeking fame and power. This path he''s on... it''s a dead end for him!" Xiao Wang shook his head and passed the letters to the generals.


    After reviewing the contents, one of the generals, Xiao Yuanfeng, furrowed his brow and asked, "Father Marshal, are we still going to aid the Great Yu Dynasty?"


    "We are going, but not to aid them this time. We are going to seize the cities of the Great Yu Dynasty!" Xiao Wang suddenly issued themand.


    "Huh?" The generals hesitated briefly.


    "Generals, obey!" Xiao Wang shouted.


    "Yes!" The generals responded immediately��


    The Heavenly City has fallen!


    The courtiers of various dynasties fled in all directions, and Emperor Nn went mad, ordering the massacre of all courtiers, intending for the Great Yu Dynasty to apany him in death!


    Numerous versions of events spread throughout the cities, but they all shared amon point: the Great Yu Dynasty had copsed!


    Even if the Heavenly City hadn''t fallen, Emperor Nn had abandoned it! Why else would he suddenly massacre his courtiers?


    Don''t believe it? Some officials from the Ministry of Revenue have already arrived in our cities. Go ask them yourselves.


    The Great Yu Dynasty is finished, truly finished. The Emperor is the foundation of the Great Yu Dynasty, and the Heavenly City is its heart. If that has fallen, what else remains?


    Great Yu is no more! Truly no more! Massacre the courtiers? Could you be next?


    As for the so-called courtiers, although their actions were extremely secretive, for some reason, it seemed as if there were pairs of eyes watching them all the time, exposing their every move.


    As the courtiers fled, Emperor Nn''s orders for executions reached every city. However, upon seeing the lists of those to be executed, the city lords did not rush to capture them. Instead, they fell silent.


    Of course, some were ordered to pursue, but most pondered deeply. Since the chaos of hearts and minds, these city lords no longer prioritized imperialmands. Instead, they pondered the future!


    The Heavenly City has truly copsed, with only an Emperor still ughtering his courtiers! Has the Great Yu Dynasty truly ended? If so, what are we still defending? Apanying the Great Yu Dynasty in its demise?


    And at this moment, in the mansions of every city lord, a letter suddenly arrived!


    The city lords held the letters with suspicion and uncertainty but chose to meet with the envoys.


    The envoys were all officials of the Great Luo Dynasty, skilled persuaders! They urged the city lords to surrender to the Great Luo Dynasty and promised them continued rule over their cities.


    Continue ruling? And as lords under the Great Luo Dynasty?


    In the past, these lords would have immediately seized such envoys and executed them in front of their mansions as a warning to others. But now, these lords hesitated. Once hearts and minds were in chaos, their resolve wavered.


    Most city lords neither agreed nor opposed, simply observing. Only a few city lords had the envoys executed!


    However, in the end, some city lords agreed. Among them were those who were not originally valiant and whose spirits had be fragile after repeated tribtions from the upheavals of the Four Heavens. Combined with threats and temptations.


    In a blink of an eye, the Great Yu Dynasty was left with just over ny cities. Eight of them immediately dered their allegiance to the Great Luo Dynasty.


    A monthter, this news spread far and wide. In the Heavenly City, the court of Nn Piaoxue was furious, preparing to dispatch forces to crush these rebellions, when another piece of devastating news arrived.


    Marshal Xiao Wang of the Great Light Dynasty had swiftly seized three cities from the Great Yu Dynasty with the Great Light''s army! What could be worse than this? The Great Light Dynasty''s betrayal seemed to dere to all that the Great Yu Dynasty had absolutely no hope left. Once a reliable ally, now they were tearing apart the cities of the Great Yu Dynasty!


    With the Great Luo Dynasty surging like a flood from the outside and Emperor Nn abandoning his duties to indulge in atrocities, the atmosphere in the Heavenly City was toxic and rotten. Meanwhile, the Great Light Dynasty eyed the cities of the Great Yu Dynasty, ready to strike.


    Despite constant messages of reassurance from the Grand Marshal, the overall situation was clear. How could the Grand Marshal turn the tide when the Great Luo Dynasty''s aggression was now so thorough? The Great Yu Dynasty''s strength was weakened, and more importantly, its people''s hearts were lost. Even with the Grand Marshal''s strength, it was futile.


    More and more cities pledged allegiance to the Great Luo Dynasty. Simultaneously, Xiao Wang continued his relentless advance, capturing ten cities during this period.


    Within the boundaries of the Great Yu Dynasty, the twenty cities under Yi Yan''s control remained steadfast, but only just over ten cities still held loyalty to the Great Yu Dynasty.


    Just over ten cities?


    In the Heavenly City, Emperor Nn Piaoxue gazed at the cities that continued to betray him, initially filled with rage but now increasingly quiet and withdrawn. The pce became deserted, with strict orders not to disturb him. Anyone who dared to enter the pce where Nn Piaoxue resided risked being instantly obliterated.


    Nn Piaoxue had sat like this for ten days.


    On the tenth day, his eyes snapped open. His long hair floated without wind, drifting backward. In an instant, he vanished from the grand hall��


    Da Yu City!


    Twenty cities under Yi Yan''s governance still resisted the Great Luo army, but with cities switching sides ahead and behind, how could they continue to resist?


    Four months ago, Da Yu City had been a dam holding back the floodwaters of the Great Luo Dynasty. Today, that flood had found another route around the dam and was overwhelming them.


    The dam was surrounded by water on all sides, on the verge ofplete submersion.


    In the Lord''s Mansion, Yi Yan sat despondently, listening to report after report from all directions. Cities were defecting to the Great Luo Dynasty one after another, and the Great Light Dynasty was seizing cities in their path. Yi Yan sat there, wearing a bitter smile. A decayed tree cannot be carved!


    Beside him, Iron Blood stood with a face full of anger and anxiety. The heavens had shattered; how could they ever repair this?


    "Grand Marshal!" Iron Blood called out.


    "Grand Marshal? What grand marshal? The Great Yu Dynasty is about to fall!" Yi Yan forced a bitter smile.


    "Grand Marshal, it''s thanks to you that Iron Blood is alive today. Without you, there would be no Iron Blood. With the Great Yu Dynasty falling, as long as you remain, I will ensure your safe passage to a secure ce," Iron Blood solemnly dered.


    "A secure ce?" Yi Yan replied with a wry smile. "Yes, the world is vast, and there''s no ce where the Grand Marshal cannot find refuge. Iron Blood, I will continue to follow the Grand Marshal!"


    Yi Yan sighed deeply as he looked at Iron Blood.


    Indeed, even Iron Blood no longer had hope for the Great Yu Dynasty. Who else could convince those city lords?


    "Report!"


    A sudden announcement came from outside the grand hall.


    "Which city has fallen now?" Yi Yan asked with a bitter smile.


    A soldier entered and said, "Reporting to the Grand Marshal, someone outside the Lord''s Mansion wishes to see you. They asked me to convey a message: ''The Covenant of Ten Years.''"


    "The Covenant of Ten Years?" Yi Yan frowned, then took a deep breath. "Please."


    "No! I will go myself," Yi Yan stood up.


    Iron Blood looked at him with slight confusion but followed closely.


    The Covenant of Ten Years? What other Covenant of Ten Years could this be? The Covenant of Zhongshan had beenpleted before ten years had passed. Who wasing now? Zhongshan?


    Yi Yan descended from the floating ind and quickly made his way, led by the soldier, to a waiting room.


    Outside the waiting room, Yi Yan smiled bitterly, "Mr. Zhongshan, you''vee quite early."


    Stepping in, Yi Yan didn''t see Zhongshan but another proud man in ck robes.


    Upon seeing Yi Yan, the man immediately bowed respectfully, "I am Zhong Zheng, son of Zhongshan. I greet Mr. Yi Yan!"


    "Zhongshan''s son? Zhong Zheng?" Yi Yan stared at Zhong Zheng, puzzled.


    "Yes, ording to my father''s n, we would need at least another three years to fully bring down the Great Yu Dynasty. Unfortunately, Emperor Nn''s actions greatly facilitated our Heavenly Copse n, allowing us to achieve this in such a short time," Zhong Zheng affirmed confidently.


    "Oh? The Heavenly Copse n? Is it truly devised by Zhongshan?" Yi Yan fixed his gaze on Zhong Zheng.


    "My father knew Mr. Yi Yan would be curious, so he sent me to provide detailed documentation of the Heavenly Copse n for your review," Zhong Zheng produced a jade scroll.


    Yi Yan immediately took it and scanned its contents with his spiritual awareness. Beside him, Iron Blood stared wide-eyed. From their conversation, Iron Blood had pieced together something: Zhongshan, not Emperor Nn, was responsible for the downfall of the Great Yu Dynasty?

 Chapter 335: Clash of Kings

    <h4>Chapter 335: sh of Kings</h4>


    After taking the time to read the jade scroll for the duration of an incense stick burning, Yi Yan closed his eyes and pondered deeply for a moment. Handing back the jade scroll, he shook his head with a sigh, "The astonishing Heavenly Copse n, a series of intertwined strategies, the copse of the Four Heavens��Zhongshan''s talent surpasses mine."


    "Mr. Yi Yan is too modest. Father has said that you did not fail due tock of ability, but rather in the domain. This is the domain of merchants, and it is also the domain of my Zhong family. To achieve this level in an unfamiliar domain ismendable!" Zhong Zheng smiled.


    "Merchants?" Yi Yan fixed his gaze on Zhong Zheng.


    "Yes, my father was a merchant before reaching the Precelestial Realm. The Zhong family flourished because of him. Father once said, ''The market is a battlefield, and the battlefield is a market. Master one method, master all methods.''" Zhong Zheng exined.


    "Yes! Zhongshan''s insights are profound," Yi Yan nodded in admiration.


    "Today, I came to ask Mr. Yi Yan about the Covenant of Ten Years. From when should we start counting?" Zhong Zheng inquired.


    "Hehe, when should we start counting? Let''s leave it for now. But let me take onest look at Great Yu," Yi Yan shook his head.


    "Grand Marshal!" Iron Blood widened his eyes.


    A wager? What wager exactly?


    "Iron Blood, three years and ten months ago, you were also there. At the summit of Xuefeng, I made a bet with Zhongshan: for ten years, I would defend while he attacked. If he took down the Great Yu Dynasty, I would ept defeat. If he failed, he would ept defeat. There are still two months left until four years. Who won this bet?" Yi Yan looked at Iron Blood with a bitter smile.


    Upon hearing Yi Yan''s words, Iron Blood widened his eyes and took a deep breath. "Grand Marshal, this is Zhongshan''s trap. He already had a way to deal with the Great Yu Dynasty and deliberately baited you into agreeing."


    "Whether it was a trap or not doesn''t matter now. I was too arrogant, and I truly lost," Yi Yan shook his head.


    Looking at Iron Blood, Yi Yan smiled faintly, "Very well, then let''s go together to Zhongshan''s camp and serve as mere soldiers."


    "Yes!" Iron Blood responded immediately.


    Zhong Zheng had been watching all along. After the two finished their conversation for a while, he spoke up, "Mr. Yi Yan!"


    "Yes?" Yi Yan looked towards Zhong Zheng.


    "My father instructed me to inform Mr. Yi Yan to prepare himself. Three months from now, I will await Mr. Yi Yan, his family, and his entourage in Daichi City, on the eastern coast by the East Sea," Zhong Zheng said.


    "Oh? Not entering the Duke of the East''s great tent?" Yi Yan frowned.


    "My father considered that joining the Great Luo Heavenly Army immediately after the fall of the Great Yu Dynasty would harm Mr. Yi Yan''s reputation. Therefore, he invites Mr. Yi Yan to our hometown, where his talents are also greatly needed," Zhong Zheng exined.


    ncing at Zhong Zheng, Yi Yan smiled slightly, "Very well, I also want to see what kind of ce nurtured a person like Zhongshan."


    "Very well, then Zhong Zheng takes his leave!" Zhong Zheng said.


    "Hmm," Yi Yan nodded lightly.


    Watching Zhong Zheng''s departing figure, Yi Yan kept his gaze fixed for a long time.


    "Grand Marshal, is there something wrong with Zhong Zheng?" Iron Blood asked, puzzled.


    "Something wrong? There is indeed something wrong. Zhongshan has hidden deeply. Suddenly, his son appears, who is neither arrogant nor humble, but unusually calm and leaks nothing. Even if I highly praise him, I underestimated him," Yi Yan sighed.


    "Ah!" Iron Blood muttered softly.


    "Alright, since we''ve agreed on three monthster, let''s get started. You go..." Yi Yan instructed Iron Blood.


    Two dayster, at a distance from Dayu City, in the central military tent of the Great Xuan King.


    Fifteen marshals had all gathered here, leaving only deputy generals to lead the troops, awaiting a singlemand for a full-scale attack on the city.


    Outside a pce, the Great Xuan King stood at the forefront, looking towards Dayu City in the distance. Another five months had passed; during this time, the Great Xuan King ordered the troops not to attack, only to defend against iing assaults.


    Because they were in the midst of the final phase of the Sky Copse n.


    Sky Copse, Four Heavens! Deceiving the heavens and crossing the seas!


    It had seeded. Zhong Shan''s Sky Copse, the Five Steps, in its final step, truly caused the people of the Great Yu Dynasty to lose confidence in Nn Piaoxue. Through a series of interlocking strategies, it deceived countless people of the Great Yu Dynasty, causing them to give up resistance.


    It had seeded. It was time to reap the rewards. Fifty cities had already surrendered, and the twenty continuous cities before them were increasingly declining.


    The Great Xuan King looked into the distance, and behind him, the various marshals were all excited.


    Zhong Shan looked at the numerous marshals here, raising his eyebrows after observing them, and exchanged a nce with Princess Qianyou beside him.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s puzzlement, Princess Qianyou also furrowed her brows and shook her head, indicating she didn''t know either.


    Why was Zhong Shan puzzled? Because among these marshals, there was one person missing, a very important person��General Qitianhou!


    The day of the final assault was imminent, yet Qitianhou was unexpectedly absent. Where had he gone?


    Endless armies from all directions were prepared and arranged densely, making it impossible to see their boundaries.


    They only awaited the Great Xuan King''smand tounch a full-scale attack on Dayu City, determined to capture it.


    "Roar~~~~~"


    Suddenly, a super loud roar spread among the three armies.


    This roar, like a super heavenly thunder, emitted a powerful aura that sprayed in all directions.


    Anyone who heard this terrifying sound couldn''t help but tremble, feeling exhrated, with their blood boiling throughout their body.


    In front of the Great Xuan King, a giant white tiger with ck stripes and red eyes suddenly appeared. The white tiger was over a hundred meters tall. As it stood there, ck malevolent energy seemed to suddenly emanate from its body, exerting a strong menacing aura that caused those around it to step back involuntarily.


    The giant white tiger walked up to the Great Xuan King, twisted its neck, and turned to look at the huge city in the distance.


    A hundred-meter giant white tiger?


    Even at a distance, Zhong Shan felt the immense pressure emanating from this powerful white tiger.


    "This is one of the princes of the Tiger n, Yintiger!" Princess Qianyou whispered to Zhong Shan.


    Yintiger?


    Yintiger twisted its neck, and the Great Xuan King stood on its head.


    The Crown Prince of the Great Luo Dynasty stood above the prince of the Tiger n, exuding an air of dominance over the world.


    "Roar~~~~Roar~~~~Roar~~~~Roar~~~~"


    The troops roared one after another, their voices shaking the heavens and the earth, breaking through the sky!


    War, the war has begun!


    At the marshals'' locations, giant tigers also appeared one after another, each towering at forty to fifty meters, serving as mounts for the marshals.


    The Great Xuan King stood on top of Yintiger''s head, leading the troops towards Dayu City step by step.


    With each step, the heavens and earth trembled, the earth shook under the march of therge army, causing numerous mountains around them to copse due to this powerful vibration!


    Battle drums resound!


    "Hum~~~~~"


    Suddenly, a buzzing echoed through the surrounding heavens and earth.


    "Roar~~~~~"


    Yintiger suddenly roared angrily.


    The footsteps of the three armies came to a halt! The Great Xuan King paused.


    Everyone suddenly stopped.


    They all turned to look at Dayu City in the distance.


    It was too far away. Those with low cultivation couldn''t see far, only those with high cultivation could. Zhong Shan vaguely saw a ck dot standing on the top of the Dayu City tower, surrounded by boundless golden aura that dyed that part of the world gold.


    Even at a great distance, Zhong Shan could feel a strong pressure emanating from there.


    Nn Piaoxue!


    Though he couldn''t see the person, Zhong Shan immediately guessed. Nn Piaoxue, the Emperor of the Great Yu Dynasty?


    It was indeed the Great Yu Emperor. Knowing that the Great Yu Dynasty was irreversibly lost, and there was no hope left, Nn Piaoxue no longer sought mercy or anticipated any changes. He was not that kind of person. Proud and ambitious, he saw the dynasty as mere externals. But now that these externals were taken from him, how could a generation of heroes be resigned?


    Nn Piaoxue and the Great Xuan King red at each other from thirty-odd mountains and rivers apart.


    The battlefield fell silent for a moment.


    This was a duel of kings. No one intervened; no one could intervene.


    Far away, atop Dayu City, Nn Piaoxue nced at the Great Xuan King in the distance, then at Yi Yan on the city tower.


    "Commander-in-Chief!" Nn Piaoxue said in a deep voice.


    At this moment, all the defending soldiers on the city tower knelt in homage, except for Yi Yan who remained standing.


    "Your Majesty!" Yi Yan responded.


    "The Great Yu Dynasty has nothing left to defend. You need not continue to defend it either. My father left you for me, but I did not use you, which led to the downfall of the Great Yu Dynasty. Though there is regret, I do not repent. At the moment of the dynasty''s copse, I have once again realized anotheryer, and your mission is over," Nn Piaoxue said.


    "Your Majesty, at this final moment, there is something in my heart that I must ask Your Majesty to tell me," Yi Yan bowed respectfully to Nn Piaoxue.


    "Speak!" Nn Piaoxue said in a deep voice.


    "In the past, when I was breaking through, a Arhat from the Pure Land of Bliss poisoned me, causing me to be weak and feeble all these years. Did Your Majesty discover the identity of the person who disturbed my seclusion back then in the pce?" Yi Yan stared at Nn Piaoxue.


    Watching Yi Yan, Nn Piaoxue fell silent for a moment. Then, he opened his narrowed eyes and calmly said, "Indeed."


    Iron Blood, beside him, widened his eyes. So, His Majesty could have prevented the Commander-in-Chief from being poisoned, but chose not to? Why?


    Looking at Nn Piaoxue, Yi Yan smiled faintly, sighed deeply, and said, "Thank you, Your Majesty, for your frankness. The knot in Yi Yan''s heart has been untied!"


    Untied knot? Nn Piaoxue knew that Yi Yan''s knot was gratitude to thete Emperor. Now that it was untied, even if grievances were clear!


    "Today''s frankness has also untied the knot in my heart!" Nn Piaoxue said softly.


    Then, without waiting for Yi Yan to say anything more, he turned his head again and stared at the Great Xuan King in the distance!

 Chapter 336: Disgrace of Shenzhou

    <h4>Chapter 336: Disgrace of Shenzhou</h4>


    Chapter 336: Disgrace of Shenzhou


    Across more than thirtyrge mountains, Nn Piaoxue stood with hands behind his back, a face full of battle intent as he looked towards the distant Great Xuan King!


    "Soldiers, obey!" the Great Xuan King shouted loudly.


    "Roar~~~~~"


    The army roared in unison, shaking the heavens.


    "When I was absent, Dongfang Marquis Zhong Shanmanded the three armies to fully recover the Great Yu Dynasty!" the Great Xuan King issued hismand.


    With thismand, all the marshals hesitated for a moment, but no one dared to defy the Great Xuan King!


    "Yes!" the three armies simultaneously roared.


    Why Zhong Shan? On the one hand, it was to appease Zhong Shan, and on the other hand, Zhong Shan was the nner behind the Tianbeng n. Everything was orchestrated by Zhong Shan, so logically, he should continue to lead.


    The Great Xuan King was leaving?


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    Just then, the Great Xuan King fell silent. His eyes locked firmly on the distance, on Nn Piaoxue.


    The two men stared at each other, neither moving, as if engaged in a spiritual confrontation.


    Externally, it seemed calm, but in their spiritual worlds, a storm was surely brewing!


    Such a level of confrontation was beyond the reach of Zhong Shan and the others. Even the Tiger n Prince, Yintiger, might have intervened, but he wasn''t there! He just stared coldly with anger.


    As the two men locked eyes, Zhong Shan could see a slight ripple in the air between them.


    Suddenly, right in the center of their distant gaze, a burst of bright light shed.


    "Bang~~~~~"


    A super explosion rang out, like a momentary explosion of stars. Though not dazzling, in the center of the distance, it seemed as if an additional sun had appeared. A powerful airflow radiated out from the explosion in all directions.


    All the endless trees on the mountain bowed their heads, and the central mountain itself was leveled by this explosion.


    Watching this scene, Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    A powerhouse��this was what a powerhouse was. Without any spells, just locking eyes could generate such explosive force.


    Zhong Shan believed that if this explosion had focused on him, he would be finished.


    In other words, his current strength was still no match for the power emanating from the Great Xuan King''s gaze?


    Looking into the distance, Zhong Shan clenched his fists. He wasn''t discouraged because he always believed that he could reach such heights himself��or even surpass them!


    "Nn Piaoxue!" the Great Xuan King called out solemnly.


    "Gu Xuan!" Nn Piaoxue called out from afar.


    Both of their voices were not very loud, but strangely, they spread throughout the entire battlefield, reaching everyone''s ears.


    "You broke through?" the Great Xuan King asked in a deep voice.


    "A month ago, it was you who helped me achieve it!" Nn Piaoxue revealed a faint smile.


    "Do you want to fight me?" the Great Xuan King frowned, staring at Nn Piaoxue in the distance.


    "In this vast world, it''s hard to find a worthy opponent!" Nn Piaoxue said solemnly.


    Indeed, at their level, finding an opponent was difficult��or rather, there were fewer. The Emperor of the Great Luo Dynasty didn''t regard their strength highly and naturally wouldn''t make a move. Those at the same level were restrained in various ways. Just like in the previous battle with the Great Mighty Heavenly Dragon Bodhisattva, Nn Piaoxue was so eager.


    Now that the Great Xuan King had arrived and Nn Piaoxue had just made a breakthrough, he naturally didn''t want to miss this opportunity.


    "Then follow me!" the Great Xuan King shouted.


    Suddenly, Yintiger lunged towards the sky, carrying the Great Xuan King, shooting rapidly towards the rear.


    In the high sky, Zhong Shan couldn''t see the figures of the Great Xuan King and Yintiger. All he saw was a shooting star passing swiftly towards the north in the distance.


    Simrly, Nn Piaoxue ascended into the air, a surge of qi dispersing all the clouds in the sky. His body then transformed into a meteor, shing across the sky in an instant, chasing after the Great Xuan King towards the far rear.


    Such a level ofbat couldn''t take ce on this battlefield, as it would inevitably cause countless deaths and injuries, even destroying cities. Nn Piaoxue didn''t mind, but the Great Xuan King didn''t want it to happen.


    With the Great Xuan King departing, all themanders looked towards Zhong Shan. The Great Xuan King had instructed that in his absence, Zhong Shan would have full authority.


    Zhong Shan slowly walked forward, looking towards the distant city. Although he couldn''t see the specific situation inside, he knew that Yi Yan was there!


    Lowering his head slightly, Zhong Shan said, "Divide the army into fifteen routes, each to capture one of the fifteen cities. Gather at thest five cities!"


    "Yes!" the three armies shouted in unison.


    The other marshals led their respective troops, charging towards different cities.


    Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou led their troops towards Dayu City. Upon arriving, the city gates were wide open, and the defenders surrendered.


    Zhong Shan thoroughly searched the entire city but found no trace of Yi Yan or Iron Blood. With the dispersal of the troops, Yi Yan could safely leave!


    Without hesitation, Zhong Shan swiftly led the army past Dayu City, a dam that had obstructed the forces of the Great Luo Dynasty for nearly a year!


    The dam was breached, and they surged towards the distant Sky City.


    The fifteen armies converged once more.


    Subsequently, Zhong Shan led the army southward. All the cities they passed had already surrendered to the Great Luo Dynasty. Therefore, Zhong Shan led the imperial troops swiftly and without hindrance!


    A month and a halfter, Zhong Shan led tens of millions of troops and arrived outside the Sky City.


    During this period, the Great Xuan King had not appeared. Regardless of what happened, Zhong Shan followed his mission.


    Reiming the Sky City, theypletely took over the Qi Luck of the Great Yu Dynasty.


    Standing outside the Sky City, Zhong Shan looked towards the distant cities. The Sky City was still the Sky City of old, but many things had changed immensely.


    The gates of the Sky City were wide open, indicating that the defenders had already surrendered! All the marshals looked at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan did not order an entry into the city but stood and looked at the 2,000-meter-high white jade city from a distance.


    Above the Sky City, thest time he came, it was shrouded in a golden mist, an endless sea of Qi Luck condensed into a golden ocean, churning and rolling in the air. At the same time, a huge Qi Luck Golden Dragon continuously breathed out the Qi Luck of the Dynasty, pointing its horns towards the heavens, carrying the mandate of heaven. Incredibly domineering and proud!


    But now, the golden mist had almost dissipated, and the Qi Luck was continuously draining. Only the Qi Luck Golden Dragon seemed extremely exhausted, as if it could disappear at any moment but stubbornly persisted.


    The Qi Luck Golden Dragon! It''s fortunate that it arrived in time; Emperor Nn has not yet died!


    "Enter the city!" Zhong Shan ordered. The white tiger under his feet carried Zhong Shan towards the Sky City.


    The defenders of the Sky City had indeed surrendered. There were no ambushes; Nn Dayanjing had fled. With the city already in chaos, who would resist again?


    Of course, there was still some resistance, but these loyalists of the Great Yu Dynasty were ughtered by the surrendered generals without Zhong Shan''s intervention!


    ZhongShan entered the city! In the past, there was no chance to explore Emperor Nn''s pce, but now there was an opportunity.


    Approaching closer, Zhong Shan did not enter but instead looked at the endless pces shrouded in clouds and mist, radiating from a huge mountain.


    It was needless to guess that the valuable items inside had surely been thoroughly searched by eunuchs and treacherous generals.


    The vast pce, endless in its grandeur, appeared imposing from the outside, exuding Emperor Nn''s aura, constantly impressing upon everyone a sense of oppression from a superior.


    "Men, burn down the pce!" Zhong Shan ordered!


    "Yes!" the generals immediately responded.


    "Burn it down?" One of the marshals looked at Zhong Shan in confusion.


    "Burn it!" Zhong Shan ignored him and continued to give orders.


    Of course, the generals followed Zhong Shan''s orders. This time, fifty thousand troops were mobilized to start fires from all sides of the pce.


    Burn! Burn! Burn!


    Why burn it? Zhong Shan had never intentionally destroyed any captured city! What was this for? Did Zhong Shan want to unt to the world that he had destroyed the Great Yu Dynasty? That he, Zhong Shan, had set fire to the Great Yu Pce?


    Zhong Shan was not that superficial. Why burn it? Qi Luck! Zhong Shan aimed to seize the Qi Luck. If the Great Xuan King were here, he would also order the pce to be burned down.


    The pce, the home of the emperor, was the root of the Great Yu Dynasty. Symbolically, burning the pce meant burning the foundation of the Great Yu Dynasty, even though this foundation was already in ruins, it still existed.


    At the same time, this pce was the fundamental core of the Qi Luck connecting to the Great Yu Dynasty!


    With the Qi Luck locked in ce, now gathered here, Zhong Shan set it on fire!


    "Roar~"


    In the high sky, the Qi Luck Golden Dragon emitted a super sad roar.


    The mournful roar made everyone below slightly tremble.


    "Burn! Continue burning!" Zhong Shan ordered sternly.


    "Yes!" The troops continued to set fires.


    The raging fire soared into the sky, its mes reaching high into the clouds. The immense ze was so strong that everyone in the Sky City could see it.


    Countless people stared dumbfoundedly at this scene. After the country''s fall and the burning of the pce, they no longer harbored patriotism or loyalty to the emperor. Yet, at this moment, as the nation perished and the pce burned, everyone inexplicably felt a deep sense of nostalgia��for the Great Yu Dynasty, for the Great Yu Pce, and for the faith and pride they once held.


    "From today onwards, the Great Yu Dynasty is expelled from thend of Shenzhou!" Zhong Shan dered with finality. It was as if he was proiming to the world or reporting to the heavens.


    "Boom~"


    A thunderous roar echoed through the heavens and earth, as if responding to Zhong Shan''s words.


    "Roar~"


    On the Sky City above, the struggling Qi Luck Golden Dragon, which was on the verge of disappearing, emitted another mournful roar. Then, with a face full of hatred, it stared down at Zhong Shan. Amidst itsment, it dove straight towards Zhong Shan!

 Chapter 337: War at Changsheng Hall

    <h4>Chapter 337: War at Changsheng Hall</h4>


    A massive dragon of fortune descended from the skies, its imposing presence causing all who looked up to feel a sudden constriction in their hearts. This was the dragon''s final struggle, itsst act of defiance. If it were the Great Xuan Emperor, a mere wave of the hand would have crushed it instantly.


    But Zhongshan was different. Or rather, he didn''t have the luxury to resist. The golden dragon of fortune surged forward and in an instant, plunged into Zhongshan''s body.


    It wasn''t that Zhongshan couldn''t resist; he simply chose not to. Long before this moment, he knew the oue. In fact, when the dragon of fortune approached, it was Zhongshan who guided it into himself.


    How did Zhongshan guide it? With his divine awareness, using the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail!


    Suddenly, the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail opened its eerie maw wide. In one gulp, it swallowed the dragon of fortune whole!


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail knew no taboos; any pure energy could be consumed without hesitation.


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail was exceedingly advanced, requiring boundless energy for its growth. Its enhancement of Zhongshan''s power demanded efforts many times that of ordinary divine awareness, but its rank far exceeded any others.


    As the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail absorbed the dragon''s fortune, it also overflowed, enhancing Zhongshan''s own strength.


    It was akin to the ancient supreme realm experts refining their primordial spirits.


    Devour, devour! Consume, consume!


    The dragon''s fortune was swallowed by the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail.


    Zhongshan''s entire body was bathed in golden light!


    Without hesitation, Zhongshan swiftly sat cross-legged and began circting the Pure Yang Thunder Prison Technique!


    All the marshals stared at Zhongshan, thinking he was in danger, unaware that he was reaping immense benefits.


    The cleansing of one''s body by the dragon''s fortune assisted in breaking through karmic obstacles!


    The fire continued to rage, consuming the imperial pce until it became a heap of ruins.


    Afterward, the generals reorganized their forces and awaited Zhongshan.


    Three dayster, under the worried gaze of Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan sitting cross-legged suddenly emitted a faint sh of thunder at his palm. Zhongshan opened his eyes.


    Everything remained unchanged, except Zhongshan''s eyes now seemed brighter!


    However, the powerful experts present could tell��Zhongshan had broken through to the ninth level of the Golden Core stage?


    Was he truly at the ninth level of the Golden Core?


    The marshals exchanged strange looks. When they had previously seen Zhongshan at the eighth level, they thought he might be concealing his true cultivation with some hidden technique. Now, it seemed he was genuinely only at the Golden Core stage?


    But none dared to question Zhongshan, appointed by the Great Xuan Emperor himself!


    Zhongshan stood up, giving Princess Qianyou a reassuring look, then turned his gaze to the vast army.


    "Clear the ruins of the imperial pce and establish our camp here!" Zhongshanmanded.


    "Yes!" the generals responded immediately.


    "I will oversee the Heavenly Sky City. The rest of you, marshal your forces to purge those cities that refuse to acknowledge the Great Luo Dynasty. Ensure all former cities of the Great Yu Dynasty raise the Great Luo g," Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" the generals replied in unison!


    Another three and a half monthster, on Tiang Ind...


    Upon a white cloud, carrying nearly a hundred and fifty people, they flew towards the direction of the Grand Duojen Dynasty.


    Leading the way on the white cloud was Zhong Zheng, with Yihan and Tiexue scanning their surroundings. Beside them walked a man��Lu Jianping!


    Lu Jianping, the disciple of Wu Wanli, the city supervisor of the Great Luo Dynasty, who had been captured by the Great Yu Dynasty andter subdued by Zhongshan.


    Behind the white cloud were their family members and reliable subordinates!


    "Mr. Yi Yan, Mr. Lu, General Tiexue, we''re almost there!" Zhong Zheng smiled.


    "Mm," everyone nodded.


    "Boom~~~"


    Suddenly, a fireball exploded in the distance.


    "Boom~ Boom~ Boom~"


    More and more fireballs and ice balls burst in the sky, creating a spectacr disy even in broad daylight.


    Simultaneously, after each explosion, they formed rows of illuminated subtitles.


    "Wee, Mr. Yi Yan!"


    "Wee, Mr. Lu Jianping!"


    Amidst the confusion, arge cavalry of wolf riders emerged from the mountains and forests, each fireball and ice ball spat out by the wolves.


    As they flew onwards, the light and shadows never ceased, forming a special weing procession that extended in a direction.


    General Tiexue continued to pilot the cloud.


    Before long, they saw stretches of ins. On these ins, numerous iron tracks carriedrge iron boxes that moved without any magical fluctuations.


    The group exchanged nces, clearly intrigued.


    Flying swiftly, they soon crossed several ins. Amidst the fireworks-like wee of the wolf cavalry, they flew straight to the capital of the Grand Duojen Dynasty.


    Hidden within, Zhongshan, apanied by officials of the Grand Duojen Dynasty, awaited quietly in front of Changsheng Hall.


    Upon arriving at the pce, countless fireworks shot into the sky. Iron Blood, however, rubbed his eyes repeatedly, softening, and then again. How could it be Zhongshan? Wasn''t he supposed to be in the Divine Land? Iron Blood wasn''t the only one; everyone else seemed equally bewildered and slightly stunned by the iprehensibility of the situation.


    "Mr. Yi Yan, Mr. Lu Jianping, long time no see!" Zhongshan smiled. His words snapped everyone back to reality, yet they still looked at Zhongshan with suspicion.


    "Wee back, Crown Prince!" the court officials eximed in unison.


    After this call, all eyes turned to Zhong Zheng, for everyone could sense that this was the correct form of address.


    Crown Prince? Zhong Zheng was the Crown Prince? Was this a country? Court officials? Did that mean Zhongshan was the emperor?


    As the white cloud descended, Yi Yan reacted the quickest, slightly furrowing his brows as he adjusted himself.


    "Greetings, Mr. Zhongshan!" Yi Yan said.


    "Greetings, Mr. Zhongshan!" Lu Jianping followed suit promptly.


    Zhongshan reached out, grasping Yi Yan''s left wrist and Lu Jianping''s right wrist.


    "Let''s go, into Changsheng Hall!" Zhongshan said joyfully, leaving a strong impression on the court officials that these two were highly favored by the Emperor.


    Behind them, Ying Lan wrinkled her nose in jealousy.


    Inside Changsheng Hall:


    "From today onwards, I appoint Lu Jianping as the Supervisor of City Construction for the Grand Duojen Dynasty, overseeing the development of our cities," Zhongshan dered from his throne.


    "Your will be obeyed!" Lu Jianping responded promptly. Clearly, Lu Jianping had also quicklye to his senses. This was the so-called Mr. Zhongshan. As for why there was another one in the Divine Land, that was a question forter.


    Zhongshan nodded in satisfaction, and a eunuch quickly ushered Lu Jianping to his designated position.


    "From today onwards, I appoint Yi Yan as the Commander of the Third Legion of the Grand Duojen Dynasty, tasked with strengthening our kingdom!" Zhongshan dered again.


    Just as Yi Yan was about to ept, Iron Blood interjected angrily.


    "Why should the Grand Commander settle for being just a legionmander? And the third at that? Even in the Great Yu Dynasty, Grand Commanders oversaw all the armies of the realm. In your tiny kingdom, a mere small dynasty, there are two ranks below the imperial dynasty. Back in my day, I was..." Iron Blood erupted.


    Clearly, Iron Blood was deeply displeased by Yi Yan''s alignment with such a minor kingdom. A kingdom? What did it even amount to?


    "Iron Blood?" Yi Yan frowned. It was evident he wished to intervene.


    "And who are you to speak out of turn in the court?" Ying Lan interjected, unable to bear it any longer.


    "You!" Iron Blood red at Ying Lan.


    In the hall, only Ying Lan dared to defy conventions, focusing solely on the Lord, and now a crude fellow dared to bellow in court, much to Ying Lan''s displeasure.


    "Heh, are you suggesting that even you were once a legionmander in an imperial dynasty?" Zhongshan chuckled.


    "And so what?" Iron Blood stared defiantly.


    At this moment, Yi Yan remained silent, quietly observing from the sidelines.


    "Because the Great Yu Dynasty of yesteryears was far inferior to my Grand Duojen Dynasty!" Zhongshan asserted confidently.


    "Haha, what a joke!" Iron Blood scanned the room, shaking his head in disbelief.


    A quick nce around revealed not a single Nascent Soul stage cultivator. The highest in cultivation, Zhongshan, at the ninth level of the Golden Core stage, could crush everyone in this small court on his own. Granted, the wolf generals outside the court could attract Iron Blood''s attention, but however one looked at it, the strength of such a minor kingdom couldn''tpare to that of an imperial dynasty.


    "Lin Xiao, Ying Lan, step forward!" Zhongshanmanded.


    "Here!" Lin Xiao and Ying Lan promptly emerged, aligning themselves in two rows.


    "Lin Xiao, Commander of the First Legion of the Grand Duojen Dynasty. Ying Lan, Commander of the Second Legion of the Grand Duojen Dynasty. General Iron Blood, formerly Commander of the First Legion of the Great Yu Dynasty, here in my Grand Duojen Dynasty, you can at most be a minor deputy," Zhongshan''s voice resonated sternly.


    Iron Blood''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    "General Iron Blood, don''t believe it? No problem. You may choose either of these two. If you can defeat them in a military contest, the authority over the military of the Grand Duojen Dynasty will be entirely in your hands," Zhongshan affirmed with unwavering confidence.


    "I don''t want military authority. I want to remain the Grand Commander here," Iron Blood insisted firmly.


    Iron Blood knew Yi Yan had already agreed to the terms and would not go back on his word, ensuring that he would stay here. Naturally, Iron Blood sought to secure more power for Yi Yan. Even if he couldn''t dominate, he would be superior to all others.


    "Hehe, very well!" Zhongshan nodded.


    Zhongshan''s actions weren''t just for Iron Blood''s benefit but to show Yi Yan and Lu Jianping what the Grand Duojen Dynasty truly represented!


    Ying Lan snorted disdainfully, while Lin Xiao smiled calmly, neither humble nor overbearing.


    In the hall, a massive jade tform was promptly erected, known as the ''Battlefield Demonstration tform,'' designed for instructing military officers on tactics. Using spells, it could simte various terrains and deploy different types of energy puppets based on highly sophisticated principles��essentially, a mock battlefield. However, before amander stood an odd luminous screen, limiting their view to only their troops. To see the arrangements of other troops, they must send out scouts to investigate.


    It closely resembled a real battlefield.


    "The map covers the territory of the Great Yu Dynasty. All troop speeds are increased by a hundredfold. You may deploy andmand troops as you wish. With both me and Yi Yan as judges, choose now between my two legionmanders!" Zhongshan smiled.

 Chapter 338: The Celestial Array of Zhou Tian Stars

    <h4>Chapter 338: The Celestial Array of Zhou Tian Stars</h4>


    "In this map, covering the territory of the Great Yu Dynasty, all troops move a hundred times faster than normal," Zhongshan chuckled, "You have the authority tomand them. Both sides have equal forces. With my and Yi Yan''s judgment, now choose between the twomanders of my legions!"


    Choose one? Iron Blood naturally believed he wasn''t inferior to either of them. As the First Legion Commander of the Great Yu Dynasty, could he possibly lose to a meremander of a small kingdom?


    "The First Legion Commander, Lin Xiao! The Second Legion Commander, Ying Lan!"


    Without hesitation, Iron Blood pointed at Lin Xiao. Regardless, Ying Lan was a woman and only the ''second'' legionmander. If he were to fight, he naturally had to challenge the strongest to win Zhongshan''s recognition!


    "You!" Iron Blood pointed at Lin Xiao.


    "Lin Xiao!" Zhongshan nodded.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Lin Xiao immediately smiled and walked to the demonstration tform.


    Who was Lin Xiao? Originally a God of War of the Great Kun [<i><strong>], in the eyes of some, he had only betrayed once by showing his hand. He had not shown much ability during the time of Great Kun [</strong></i>], being more focused on avoiding conflict with Great Kun. Despite being dubbed a God of War, how capable was he really?


    Ying Lan, in her youth, pacified four countries alone and earned a title that frightened millions of soldiers. Later, she even mastered the Eight-Gate Golden Lock Array, a formidable battle formation. Yet, she remained in the second position.


    Second? Then what about the first?


    Judging by strength alone, it was reckless to assume, but reaching the level of Great Xuan King was another matter altogether. They alone could determine the entire battlefield!


    Though Iron Blood''s words seemed impulsive, inwardly, he was cautious.


    Zhongshan, Yi Yan, and Ying Lan stood on the side of the demonstration tform, able to observe the battlefieldprehensively.


    Iron Blood and Lin Xiao stood separately at the demonstration tform.


    Both ced their hands on the tform, using their divine senses tomand and control their troops.


    In front of each, a light screen appeared, allowing them to see only their own troops. They could only know the situation elsewhere through scouts.


    "Each side has three million troops and six cities. Victory goes to whoever captures all the opponent''s cities!" Zhongshan smiled.


    This was pure warfare, without any external factors. It all depended on their abilities.


    "Let''s begin!" Yi Yan gently spoke.


    Iron Blood and Lin Xiao said nothing, using their divine senses to maneuver their troops, allocating main attackers and defenders, and starting the war at a hundredfold speed!


    As the battlemenced, the Hall of Eternal Life fell into silence.


    Iron Blood was focused, concentrating his efforts,manding the three million troops. Lin Xiao watched the battlefield, smiling faintly.


    Initially, Iron Blood was exhrated by the hundredfold speed, as if victory were assured. But after a day, his expression grew increasingly grim. Lin Xiao, on the other hand, remained calm andposed throughout.


    Yi Yan took a deep breath, shaking his head at Iron Blood before casting a profound nce at Lin Xiao.


    Meanwhile, Ying Lan remained excited throughout, her hands slightly trembling. Unconsciously, she gripped Zhongshan''s arm, who indulgently smiled and made no attempt to stop her.


    "Whoo~~~"


    Iron Blood let out a long sigh.


    "Thank you for your modesty!" Lin Xiao replied calmly, neither humble nor arrogant.


    "This is just luck! I refuse to ept this, I refuse!" Iron Blood fumed, clearly dissatisfied with the day''s oue.


    However, Yi Yan sighed softly, shaking his head beside him. He no longer held hope for Iron Blood.


    "Let''s try again!" Lin Xiao suddenly suggested.


    "Huh?" Iron Blood blinked, then looked at Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan extended his hand, signaling them to continue.


    Unwilling to give up, Iron Blood initiated a second round. Compared to the previous full day, this timested only half a day, but Iron Blood was defeated amid deep frustration. All three million troops were wiped out, everyst one, and all six cities were captured. It was aplete and bitter defeat.


    Why bitter? Because in each battle, as they neared the end, it was always Lin Xiao''s soldiers who remained standing against Iron Blood''s. Even when there were just a handful left on both sides, it was always Lin Xiao''s troops who decided the oue. Could Iron Blood not feel frustrated?


    "Another round!" Iron Blood''s anger red up; he couldn''t believe his misfortune.


    In the third round, it was the same story. In half a day, Iron Blood''s forces were annihted, while Lin Xiao''s had three or four soldiers left to nt their g on Iron Blood''s cities. Iron Blood was thoroughly frustrated!


    Iron Blood was reluctant to ept it, but this time, he had to.


    Ying Lan''s attention had long since wandered from the battlefield, but she still held Zhongshan''s arm with a satisfied smile on her face.


    Yi Yan watched the battlefield with a wry smile, wanting to advise Iron Blood not to embarrass himself, but upon seeing Zhongshan, he remained silent.


    "One more round, the final round! I don''t believe you''re this lucky every time!" Iron Blood shouted.


    Lin Xiao nced at Zhongshan.


    "Swift and decisive!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao immediately responded.


    The fourth round began. From the start, Iron Blood furrowed his brow suspiciously, while Lin Xiao''s expression remained unchanged.


    Suddenly, Iron Blood''s eyes widened.


    "What''s going on? Why is there a volcano here? No, there''s always been a volcano here, but why is it erupting now? This shouldn''t be happening! Howe it coincidentally exploded just as my troops gathered? Are you cheating?" Iron Blood immediately used.


    "Enough!" Yi Yan shouted.


    "Commander, he''s cheating..." Iron Blood angrily pointed at Lin Xiao.


    "From now on, address me as Legion Commander," Yi Yan said solemnly.


    "But..." Iron Blood tried to argue.


    "General Lin''s leadership is truly refreshing! I admire it," Yi Yan continued.


    "General Yi is too kind," Lin Xiao replied calmly.


    "Legion Commander, he... he''s cheating..." Iron Blood persisted.


    "Cheating? Heh, haven''t you noticed? From start to finish, General Lin has been fighting with only one million troops against your three million. In the first battle, your entire army was wiped out while General Lin suffered only thirty thousand casualties��ten times the difference. In the second battle, your entire army was wiped out while General Lin suffered only eighty thousand casualties��thirty-seven times the difference. In the third battle, your entire army was wiped out while General Lin suffered only fifty thousand casualties��sixty times the difference. And all this while General Lin was just ying around with you. If he wanted to take your cities, would he wait for your troops to bepletely wiped out? In the final battle, the volcanic eruption wasn''t a coincidence either. General Lin''s men deliberately triggered it, causing three thousand casualties and leading your army into the center of ten volcanoes, where they exploded. Your entire army was wiped out with a thousandfold difference! So, where''s the cheating?" Yi Yan sighed as he exined.


    "I refuse to believe it!" Iron Blood clearly struggled to ept this defeat.


    Quickly, a eunuch nearby handed over a memory crystal for Lin Xiao to review. "Watch it faster!"


    "General Lin''s mastery of the battlefield is beyond yourparison. In just a few encounters, he''s already figured it out. To deal with you, he doesn''t even need to use troops; triggering a volcano is sufficient!" Yi Yan shook his head.


    After quickly reviewing the information, Iron Blood finally conceded. What was the point of continuing? This wasn''t a battle between two armies; it was him humiliating himself! Lin Xiao? The First Legion Commander of the Great Jue Dynasty?


    Iron Blood finally bowed his head after looking at Lin Xiao, the Golden Core stagemander who remainedposed from beginning to end.


    "Iron Blood admires you," Iron Blood said solemnly.


    "General Iron Blood is too kind," Lin Xiao replied with a smile.


    "But General Lin Xiao, there''s no need to humiliate me like this. Will I not be theughingstock of the three armies in the future?" Iron Blood chuckled.


    Iron Blood was straightforward by nature. Since he admitted he was no match for Lin Xiao, he wouldn''t resort to being stubborn. A capable person deserved respect; there was no need to save face unnecessarily.


    "Theughingstock? Haha, General Iron Blood, don''t worry. No one will mock you. But it seems you were lucky to have picked me," Lin Xiaoughed.


    "Huh?" Iron Blood was momentarily surprised.


    "If you had chosen General Ying Lan, I guarantee you would have had it worse than just now. I speak from experience!" Lin Xiao chuckled, epting Iron Blood in his own way.


    "Grandpa Lin, you''re teasing me again!" Ying Lan protested.


    "Haha, I''m not teasing you. I''m just reminding General Iron Blood. Otherwise, you might end up being sold and still have to count the money for her!" Lin Xiaoughed.


    Ying Lan stomped her foot in frustration, clearly unwilling. However, with Zhongshan present, Ying Lan restrained herself from outbursts.


    "Alright, I now dere again: Yi Yan is appointed as the Third Legion Commander of the Great Jue Dynasty. As for General Iron Blood, he will remain under the Third Legion and follow Yi Yan''s orders!" Zhongshan spoke once more.


    "I obey!" Iron Blood and Yi Yan responded almost simultaneously.


    The Great Jue Dynasty, a kingdom like no other! A small kingdom harboring hidden dragons and crouching tigers, limitless in potential!


    Over the course of three and a half months, the Great Yu Dynasty''s cities fell one by one, and now, the Great Yu Dynasty no longer existed. All that remained was the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty!


    More than a hundred and forty cities were transformed into cities of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty!


    Zhongshan sessfully stabilized his ninth stage of the Golden Core realm!


    In the Sky City, Zhongshan sat behind hismand table, surrounded by generals like Shui Wuheng and Liu Wushuang. Other marshals were not present.


    Princess Qianyou sat behind a table beside him, watching Zhongshan.


    "Nn Piaoxue is truly formidable," Zhongshan sighed.


    "Yes, even the Great Xuan King and the Tiger Demon couldn''t defeat him. But Nn Piaoxue had to die in the end. Finally, the Great Xuan King used the Zhou Tian Stars Array of the Great Xuan City to wear him down," Princess Qianyou sighed.


    "The Zhou Tian Stars Array?" Zhongshan fixed his gaze on Princess Qianyou.

 Chapter 339: Sword God Palace

    <h4>Chapter 339: Sword God Pce</h4>


    "The Celestial Star Array?" Zhongshan fixed his gaze on Princess Qianyou.


    "The Celestial Star Array is a reduced version of the ''Great Luo Celestial Star Array'', created by His Majesty himself. It''s an incredibly powerful formation that only the Emperor can set up. The four Crown Princes can only manage its simplified version," Princess Qianyou sighed.


    "Has it already been set up in Daxuan City?" Zhongshan asked Princess Qianyou.


    "Yes, Daxuan City was built specifically for this array. But this Nn Piaoxue is truly formidable. Not only did he die, but he also managed to destroy the Celestial Star Array, reducing Daxuan City to ruins. He''s too strong," Princess Qianyoumented.


    "Report!" Suddenly, a voice rang out from outside the hall.


    In rushed a soldier, kneeling and presenting a letter.


    "Reporting to the Marshal, a letter from King Daxuan!" The soldier held up the sealed letter.


    Zhongshan swiftly took the letter, tearing it open and reading its contents. His eyes widened in shock.


    "How is this possible?" Zhongshan eximed incredulously.


    Zhongshan''s astonishment was palpable. When had anyone seen him disy such a reaction?


    "Marshal, what''s wrong?" Shui Wuheng asked, puzzled.


    "Yeah, what''s happened?" Princess Qianyou also looked puzzled.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan handed the letter to Princess Qianyou.


    Grabbing the letter, Princess Qianyou''s eyes widened as well, filled with disbelief. She then passed the letter to Shui Wuheng and the others, who read it one by one.


    "Xiao Wang is dead? How is that possible? Xiao Wang, the Grand Commander of the Great Radiance Dynasty, dead?" Shui Wuheng eximed in shock.


    Indeed, Xiao Wang was a remarkable figure, a genius of unparalleled talent. Dead?


    Not only Xiao Wang, but his two sons, Xiao Yuanfeng and Xiao Yuandeng, are dead too?


    The man Zhongshan had considered a great enemy, Xiao Wang, is dead?


    "He''s really dead. The bodies of Xiao Wang and his sons are now hanging at the top of the Moonlit City''s city tower, where General Xiangbu''s garrison is stationed. A disy of their corpses to warn the world!" Princess Qianyou sighed.


    "Qi Tianhou, was it him? I''ve noticed Qi Tianhou''s absencetely, even during the total assault on the Great Yu Dynasty. So, he was really nning to deal with Xiao Wang at that time? What a monumental achievement! A colossal achievement! Killing Xiao Wang is like destroying a third of the Great Radiance!" Zhongshan sighed deeply.


    "But Marshal, didn''t you say Xiao Wang was a true genius, unbeatable in tactics? How could there be something he couldn''t foresee?" Liu Wushuang asked in confusion.


    "A genius? Even geniuses can''t avoid death? Can''t fall into ambushes? But if Qi Tianhou used troops, even if Xiao Wang could foresee it, he couldn''t have been killed!" Zhongshan frowned.


    "This...?" Liu Wushuang was at a loss for words.


    "Alright, go prepare the troops. ording to what King Daxuan''s letter says, I am no longer themander of the Fifteen Routes. I am now the Marshal of one of the main armies under King Daxuan. With the battlefield of the Great Yu Dynastypletely cleared, and now that Xiao Wang, the Grand Commander of the Great Radiance, is dead, we''ll fully focus on attacking the Great Radiance Dynasty. You all, go quickly and prepare the troops, awaiting my orders!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" The generals responded immediately, then quickly left the hall.


    Zhongshan sat in the hall, his brow furrowed in contemtion.


    "Are you wondering about Gulim''s method of killing Xiao Wang?" Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan.


    "Huh, you know about it?" Zhongshan asked in surprise.


    "Not quite, I just have a spection!" Princess Qianyou said.


    "What spection?" Zhongshan asked in confusion.


    "Do you know why Gulin was titled Qi Tianhou? ''Qi Tian'' means equal to the heavens. In the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty, ''Tian'' represents the Emperor. Doesn''t that ce him equal to the Emperor? Do you know why?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Why?" Zhongshan puzzled, this had long been a question troubling him.


    "Because of Gulin''s past life," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Past life?" Zhongshan asked, intrigued.


    "That day, in the ancient capital, Gulin returned to the Imperial Treasury. Suddenly, a purple-golden striped dragon rod, a ninth-grade treasure, soared into the air and fell into Gulin''s hands. At that moment, both the Emperor and the Four Crown Princes knew about Gulin''s past life. The previous owner of that purple-golden striped dragon rod had reincarnated�� he was Gulin!" Princess Qianyou exined.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Gulin''s past life was as the supreme leader of the Monkey n, Shen Qitian!" Princess Qianyou continued.


    "Shen Qitian? The Monkey n?" Zhongshan widened his eyes.


    "Yes, precisely the Monkey n. He was the supreme leader of all monkeys, apes, orangutans, and baboons in the world. After his death, he reincarnated as Gulin," Princess Qianyou said.


    "No wonder he can summon that giant ape, Shen Qitian?" Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    "Yes, but his memories of his past life haven''t fully returned, and he doesn''t want them to. However, he knows this fact, which is why he can summon the giant ape!" Princess Qianyou said.


    "Are you suggesting that Qi Tianhou might have summoned countless powerful apes and monkeys to kill Xiao Wang?" Zhongshan stared at Princess Qianyou.


    "Very likely! However, outsiders only know that Xiao Wang is dead and now disyed in Moonlit City. Themander there is Xiangbu, indicating that Qi Tianhou conspired with Xiangbu!" Princess Qianyou said.


    "Xiangbu, how strong is he individually?" Zhongshan asked.


    "At the Emperor''s Peak!" Princess Qianyou replied.


    "Hmm," Zhongshan nodded.


    "What do you n to do?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "I n to go to Moonlit City and see for myself! Xiao Wang''s death is too unjust!" Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Unjust? Hehe, indeed, it''s very unjust!" Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    "I didn''t mean it that way. What I meant was that Xiao Wang''s true capabilities were not fully utilized. He had a force behind him, but he died under absolute strength. It''s too unfair!" Zhongshan sighed.


    "A force behind him, are you referring to the Great Radiance Dynasty?" Princess Qianyou furrowed her brow.


    "No," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "Not?" Princess Qianyou was slightly taken aback.


    "Do you remember the person who buried you and me alive back then?" Zhongshan looked at Princess Qianyou.


    Upon mentioning that burial, a slight blush appeared on Princess Qianyou''s face. The memory of the leaves feeding water was still vivid.


    "Xiao Qiushui, Xiao Wang''s grandson!" Princess Qianyou said.


    "Yes, precisely him. After Xiao Qiushui''s death, ten men in red robes appeared to collect his body. These men even dismembered the demonic youth Xie Yan into a hundred pieces, fulfilling Haomeili''s curse. However, who are these men in red robes?" Zhongshan stared at Princess Qianyou.


    Upon hearing this, everything in Princess Qianyou''s mind quickly connected. Her eyes widened��


    On the vastnd of Shenzhou, an area covered by countlessyers of ice. In the center, there was a secluded spring, emitting arge amount of cold air.


    However, not far from this secluded spring, there was a vast pceplex. The pces were crystal-clear, and on the central pce, a que floated, bearing three very proud characters.


    The three characters on the que seemed to pierce into the eyes with a strong sense of killing intent.


    Sword God Pce!


    Outside the Sword God Pce, numerous figures in red robes hurried back and forth, busy with various tasks. In all directions, some of these figures were practicing extraordinarily exquisite sword techniques.


    Inside the Sword God Pce, there was only one person��a woman dressed in white. She was exceptionally beautiful, her fairplexion exuding an aura of pride. Her eyes were not just bright, but sharp, seemingly emanating boundless sword intent at a nce.


    A powerful sword intent flickered faintly in her eyes.


    Her long hair draped over her shoulders, incredibly soft, yet upon closer inspection, each strand ended in a shape resembling a sword tip.


    The woman paced back and forth in the hall.


    "What''s going on? Why am I feeling so restless? Did something go wrong in my cultivation?" The woman clenched her fists, then sat down, but as soon as she sat down, the restlessness surged again, forcing her to stand up once more.


    Continuing to pace in the hall, the figures outside in red robes dared not disturb her. This was because the Mistress of the Sword God Pce had a notoriously bad temper, and the restless woman pacing inside was none other than the Mistress herself.


    Seeing that the restlessness wouldn''t dissipate, the Mistress of the Sword God Pce slowly walked out of the hall.


    She walked slowly towards a nearby pce. Entering the pce, the Mistress fixed her gaze on a huge ice coffin.


    Inside the ice coffiny the body of Xiao Qiushui.


    "Grandson, why am I feeling so restless?" The Mistress of the Sword God Pce murmured to the ice coffin.


    Just then, from outside, a ck figure swiftly flew towards the Sword God Pce. No, he looked more like he was fleeing in panic.


    The Mistress of the Sword God Pce frowned and walked out of Xiao Qiushui''s ice coffin hall!


    The ck figure was a man, his face filled with panic, even fear, as he hurriedly flew towards the Mistress of the Sword God Pce.


    "What''s wrong? Is your father still unable to forget ''Ruyan''?" The Mistress of the Sword God Pce frowned.


    "Mother, Mother!" As soon as the mannded, he cried out and crawled to the Mistress of the Sword God Pce''s feet, clutching her legs. His cries were incredibly mournful.


    The Mistress of the Sword God Pce seemed to realize that something was wrong and immediately asked, "What happened?"


    "Father, he''s dead!" The man cried, his face full of tears.


    Upon hearing the man''s words, the Mistress of the Sword God Pce staggered, then immediately stood firm, ring angrily at the man. "It''s impossible, he''s got a strong destiny!"


    The Mistress of the Sword God Pce looked at the man angrily.


    "Mother, he really died. Father and my older brothers, they''re all dead, all dead! You have to avenge Father! Father died miserably, and now he''s still hanging on the city tower, disyed to the public!" The man cried out.


    "It''s impossible, you''re lying to me!" The Mistress of the Sword God Pce swayed again.


    The man immediately took out a memory crystal.


    "Mother, this is a memory crystal recorded by someone. It''s really Father, really Father. Father! Father! Father, you died so miserably!" The man cried incessantly, handing over a memory crystal.


    The Mistress of the Sword God Pce hesitated to reach out her hand, afraid to grab it, but still endured her fear and reached out.


    With a release of her true essence, the Mistress of the Sword God Pce saw the scene inside.


    The memory crystal fell to the ground with a "clink."


    The Mistress of the Sword God Pce suddenly became stunned, unwilling, and involuntarily tears rolled down her cheeks.


    "Mother, Father died so miserably! Mother, you have to avenge Father!" The man cried out.


    This cry seemed to awaken something within the Mistress of the Sword God Pce.


    Suddenly, her eyes turned bloodshot. She tilted her head back towards the sky, and her long hair began to flutter without wind. With a fierce expression, she bellowed towards the heavens.


    "Die~~~~~~~!"


    A thunderous roar erupted, like an invisible sword soaring into the sky, piercing through the clouds. The sword intent shattered all the clouds in the sky, turning them into countless sword qi that filled the sky, obscuring the sun. Swords, everywhere swords. The sky was filled with endless sword qi, an immensely powerful and majestic sword intent that seemed capable of destroying everything in its path.


    "Boom rumble rumble~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Around the Sword God Pce, the endless icy ins suddenly erupted. Ice spikes in the shape of swords shot up into the sky, shattering the entire ice field. Swords, endless swords, turned the ice in into a prickly hedgehog-likendscape, with massive ice swords rising straight into the sky. Sword-shaped ice mountains appeared abruptly.


    Swords, swords, swords! Swords were everywhere!


    The Sword God Pce was furious, driven mad!


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Mistress of the Sword God Pce seemed wild, her eyes burning red. They shed with intense hatred and boundless resentment, as if she hated the heavens and the earth.


    With a sharp scream, the pces around the Sword God Pce exploded,pletely destroyed. The entire icy in was reshaped into an unrecognizable form by the furious Mistress of the Sword God Pce.


    Nearby was a quiet spring, emitting a faint aura of gloom. However, under the Mistress''s furious roar, this sword intent forced the spring downwards, crazily sinking into the depths.


    The entire spring suddenly appeared like a bottomless abyss.


    The formidable Mistress of the Sword God Pce!


    After the initial two thunderous roars, the hatred in the Mistress''s heart not only didn''t diminish in the slightest, but instead burned even more intensely. Her long hair danced, flickering with waves of powerful sword intent.


    "Mother! Mother!" The panicked man kneeling on the ground cried out.


    However, the Mistress of the Sword God Pce didn''t even look at him. Instead, she reached out her hand and grabbed. From the depths of that abyss-like spring, a pitch-ck long sword suddenly flew up. It was a sword that froze everything around it, a ck sword that seemed to freeze anyone who nced at it.


    "Where is his corpse hanging?" The Mistress of the Sword God Pce gritted her teeth, trembling.


    "At Moonlight City! It''s hanging at Moonlight City!" The man quickly replied.


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Mistress of the Sword God Pce roared furiously once again. The boundless sword qi in the sky suddenly copsed and dispersed. The Mistress of the Sword God Pce shot up into the sky.


    "Shoo~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The air was torn apart by the sound of a sharp sword. The Mistress of the Sword God Pce had disappeared without a trace.

 Chapter 340: Sword of Vengeance

    <h4>Chapter 340: Sword of Vengeance</h4>


    Above a white cloud, Zhongshan, Qianyou, A''da, and A''er raced swiftly towards the Moonlight City.


    "Sir Zhongshan has spared no effort in nurturing Shui Wuheng," Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    "Shui Wuheng is worth cultivating. Besides, with the current situation in Moonlight City, sending the entire army is not an option. The four of us will suffice," nodded Zhongshan.


    Watching Zhongshan, Princess Qianyou gave him a meaningful nce and nodded.


    On the southern tower of Moonlight City, three long wooden poles stood erect, each with a rope dangling from one end.


    The ropes looped around the necks of three corpses.


    Xiaowang, Xiaoyuanfeng, Xiaoyuandeng��these three bodies hung from the city tower, exposed to wind and sun. Even in death, they found no peace.


    d in armor, their bodies bore countless wounds, casting a solemn silence over the surrounding scouts.


    Xiaowang, the former Grand Marshal of the Daguang Empire, met such a tragic end!


    With the fall of Daguang, the Grand Yu Dynasty had just copsed, leaving the Daguang Empire isted and vulnerable. This made Xiaowang''s demise a severe blow to the garrisons defending numerous cities under Daguang''s banner.


    Standing atop the tower, a confident and proud figure in military attire, with a square face and robust stature, was Xiang Bu, Commander of the Sixth Legion of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty.


    Xiang Bu had been the top schr in the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty''s imperial examinations, excelling in both literary and martial arts. His rise in status culminated in his appointment as Commander of the Sixth Legion.


    Previously, in conflicts with the Grand Yu Dynasty, Xiang Bu had only suffered minor setbacks at the hands of Yi Yan. However, in the Daguang campaign, Xiaowang had repeatedly outmaneuvered Xiang Bu, leading to ambush after ambush and considerable setbacks. Though not outright defeated by Xiaowang, Xiang Bu found himself in a precarious position.


    Now, however, his longtime adversary Xiaowang''s corpse hung before him!


    Disying Xiaowang''s body served two purposes: to demoralize Daguang''s soldiers and to lure Xiaowang''s loyalists into seeking revenge. Within Moonlight Cityy an ambush of two million troops, all awaiting the arrival of these avengers.


    In just one month, nearly half a million of these vengeful soldiers had been wiped out.


    Xiang Bu felt a deep satisfaction. If things continued like this, eliminating another million of them would be no challenge. More importantly, the emergence of these vengeful forces weakened the defenses of other cities, making it easier for other army units to capture cities and earn their own share of glory!


    Gazing at Xiaowang''s body, Xiang Bu couldn''t help but smirk.


    As Xiang Bu anticipated, there were indeed numerous scouts from various factions around, but none dared to approach.


    Amidst the scorching sun, at that moment��


    From the south gate, a figure in crimson suddenly appeared in the distance. The woman in red had an eerie aura around her, with traces of drifting snowkes.


    Her eyes were bloodshot, tears of blood streaming down her face, giving her a terrifying and frenzied appearance. Her gaze fixed obsessively on the city tower ahead, where three corpses hung.


    Step by step, she approached the base of the city tower.


    Standing atop the tower, Xiang Bu furrowed his brow. No one had dared to approach the southern gate until now��how had this woman suddenly appeared?


    With a casual wave of his hand, a squad of about three hundred soldiers swiftly emerged from the city, charging towards the woman in the distance. With their crossbows loaded and ready, they awaited themand to unleash a barrage of arrows.


    Sensing the approaching threat, the woman''s eyes remained fixed on the tower, but her hand gripped the longsword at her side.


    "Zi~~~~~~"


    A sudden sh of intense light passed through, freezing the three hundred soldiers in ce. Step by step, the woman advanced, walking through the midst of the three hundred motionless men.


    "What''s going on?" Xiang Bu furrowed his brow with a hint of anger on the city tower.


    The next moment, Xiang Bu understood. As the woman in red passed through the three hundred soldiers, one man''s longsword abruptly snapped in half. Then, all of them were suddenly cleaved in two, blood spraying from their waists as they were all bisected in an instant!


    Witnessing this scene, the soldiers on the city tower shuddered in fear.


    "Reform the ranks and prepare to meet the enemy!" Xiang Bu roared.


    "Dong, dong, dong..."


    The sound of heavy footsteps echoed as the city gates swung open, and arge army poured out, while on the city tower��


    "Shoot~~~~~~~~"


    With amand, a deluge of crossbow arrows rained down like a storm towards the woman in red.


    Countless arrows filled the sky like locusts, raining down relentlessly towards the woman. Yet, she calmly swung her longsword towards the sky.


    "Peng~~~~~~"


    Tens of thousands of Thundercrack Arrows were cut apart by this one sword in a bizarre manner. Even tens of thousands of arrows not on the same ne were cut in two with a single stroke by the woman in red!


    Witnessing this monstrous disy of swordsmanship, almost everyone was momentarily stunned. What kind of monster was she?


    "Kill~~~~~~~~" Xiang Bu gave the order.


    Just as a hundred thousand troops rushed out of the city towards the woman in red, the Thundercrack Arrows continued to rain down, attempting to wear her down.


    However, there was a force known as absolute strength!


    Once again, the woman swung her longsword. This time, instead of severing them in half like before, endless sword energy surged forth.


    Not from the sword itself, but suddenly, an endless sword energy erupted from the ground. Terrifying sword energy numbered in the millions, directly shooting up from under the feet of the army.


    "Ahhhhhh~~~~~~~~"


    "Ahhhhhh~~~~~~~~"


    ... The screams were endless. The million swords seemed to possess infinite strength; weaker soldiers were instantly cut down, their protective shields cleaved in half. Those who were stronger, at the Yuanying stage of cultivation, managed to escape some, but after the million swords killed countless soldiers, they turned and attacked the generals.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~"


    In an instant, countless generals were also killed by the swords!


    Over fifty thousand sword energies suddenly shot up towards the defenders on the city walls.


    "Ahhhhhh~~~~~~~~"


    "Ahhhhhh~~~~~~~~"


    ... The defending soldiers on the walls were also suddenly killed, with nearly thirty thousand dead. Only then did the sword energy disappear!


    One sword, one sword shing a hundred and thirty thousand people?


    Everyone was dumbfounded! Even Xiang Bu, who had been proud and confident just moments ago, lost all his arrogance in an instant.


    From beginning to end, the woman in red never took her eyes off Xiaowang''s corpse, tears of blood still streaming down her face. On the city tower, a lowly soldier happened to be standing at the base of Xiaowang''s wooden pole. Seeing the woman below, he panicked and identally knocked the pole over, no, knocked it down into the city below.


    "Peng~~~~~~"


    The soldier suddenly erupted with countless sword energies from within his body and exploded.


    Just one nce?


    No one else dared to move!


    As Xiaowang''s body fell, the woman''s gaze shifted fiercely towards the soldier.


    "Peng~~~~~~"


    Sword energies burst forth from the soldier''s body, causing him to explode.


    Just one look, and the others didn''t dare to move!


    As Xiaowang''s body fell, the woman approached and embraced him, while the wooden pole fell to the side, with the rope still around Xiaowang''s neck.


    At this moment, tears streamed down the woman''s face even more profusely! She gently loosened the rope around Xiaowang''s neck and continuously caressed his face.


    "Wake up! Please wake up!" the woman cried bitterly. "Don''t leave me alone. You promised to be wholeheartedly devoted to me. You said after this war, we would retire together in the mountains. Wake up! Wake up! You liar, are you going to deceive me again?"


    The woman pressed her face against Xiaowang''s lifeless body, shaking him incessantly, but Xiaowang''s body remained motionless.


    On the city tower, Xiang Bu''s eyes widened as he watched the woman speak to Xiaowang''s corpse. Without hesitation, he waved his hand, reorganized the troops, and swiftly led the army to flee through the eastern gate.


    Fight? How could they fight? They needed to run!


    The woman continued to cry as she held Xiaowang''s body. Suddenly, she paused and looked at him. With trembling hands, she retrieved a small jade pendant from Xiaowang''s mouth.


    With a gentle pinch, the jade pendant emitted a voice recording��a message left behind by Xiaowang.


    "Jian Hong, I''m sorry. I''m about to die, and this is myst recorded moment. <i>Puff</i> (coughing sound) Haha, I never expected that I, Xiaowang, would die like this. In my final moments, I suddenly thought of so many things, reflecting on my life, my past.


    "My name is Xiaobingyi. This name was given for Yanyan''s sake. After she died, my heart died with her. It wasn''t until I met you that I started living again.


    "I loved Yanyan deeply. Even though you often got angry with me and said hurtful things out of jealousy, I still loved her steadfastly. Until death do us part, as witnessed by heaven and earth.


    "When she died for me, and I saw her spirit that day, I knew I would die for her too. Everyone thought I was ambitious, striving for longevity, but they didn''t know that all I truly wanted was to grow old with my beloved, to hold her hand even when our hair turned white and teeth fell out.


    "At that moment, I truly wanted to leave with Yanyan. Truly. The Great Guang Empire, immortality, it''s all false, all fleeting. But in the end, I couldn''t leave, because at that moment, I remembered you. Even though you often treated me like a servant, I never minded. On the contrary, I found joy in it, because I loved you too.


    "For Yanyan''s sake, I could give up my life. For you, I could live another life.


    "Jian Hong, I truly love you. Regarding Yanyan''s matter, your jealousy consumed you. I promised to give you time to forget, but I have to admit, I couldn''t forget her. I could never erase that feeling from my heart, even if my memories were sealed away by some secret method, that love could never be sealed.


    "I am going to meet Yanyan now, fulfilling my wish. But at this moment, a desperate desire to live surges within me. I want to live. I really want to live, because I know in the Sword God Pce, there is another woman who loves me and whom I love.


    "At this moment, regret floods my heart. How I wish I hadn''t agreed to the Great Guang Empire''s demands, how I wish I had spent my days only with you! How much I wish for that!


    "I''m sorry. I can''t keep my promise from back then. I won''t wait for the Great Guang Empire''s victory, or even see you one more time. Why is it that only when we''re about to lose something do we realize how precious it was? Seeing you practice swordsmanship every day, touching your hair, was such a beautiful thing.


    "I really want... really want...


    "Why are you, Yanyan, and I separated by the realms of Yin and Yang?


    "I''m going to the Underworld. I''m going to die. I''m going to see Yanyan. She''s waited for me for a thousand years. Now, entering the Underworld, she''ll surely be lonely and miserable, while in the Yang world, at least our son will keep youpany.


    "Jian Hong! At this moment, I really want to touch your face again! I really want to! The thousand-year-old tree we nted together, when you were angry, you cut it down. Hehe, I revived it! It''s still there. Remember to water it often!


    "You''re a strong girl. You said you would be an immortal. Promise me, live well for me, and live out my share too, because you''re Jian Hong, the stubborn and lovely little Jian Hong in my heart!"


    The voice abruptly stopped. Jian Hong''s face, covered in tears of blood, had dried up. Her expression was incredibly pale as she looked up at the sky, her gaze nk. A breeze blew past, and Jian Hong seemed to forget everything, only remembering Xiaowang''s words, "I really want to touch your face again!"


    Gently, she took Xiaowang''s hand and ced it on her face, repeatedly stroking her own face with it. Jian Hong''s face showed no emotion, no expression. It seemed as if she had lost all feelings.


    Raising her head, she formed an ice coffin with her hands and carefully ced Xiaowang''s body inside, even meticulously arranging his hair.


    Turning her hand, she put Xiaowang''s body away. Jian Hong''s face showed no hatred, no discernible emotion, only numbness��a numb face, numb eyes.


    Numbly, she looked at the bodies of Xiaoyuanfeng and Xiaoyuandeng, reached out, and stored them in her storage bracelet.


    After everything was done, Jian Hong looked towards the city tower, flew up to the top of the tower, and coldly nced around before heading east!


    No unnecessary words, no unnecessary emotions. At this moment, Jian Hong seemed to have forgotten what emotions were, what emotions were like. Xiaowang''s death left only hatred behind, but Xiaowang''sst words made Jian Hong forget what emotions were. When emotions reach their peak, that''s indifference!


    Next, all Jian Hong had to do was seek revenge!

 Chapter 341: Valley of Ten Thousand Apes

    <h4>Chapter 341: Valley of Ten Thousand Apes</h4>


    Xiang Bu hastily fled from the east gate with his army, or rather, with only a handful of troops and a few powerfulmanders. There wasn''t enough time to notify all the troops to retreat together.


    Seeing the formidable woman in red, Xiang Bu knew things were dire. What kind of cultivation was this? One that could disregard the soldiers on the battlefield! Despite being at the peak Emperor Realm, Xiang Bu found himselfcking the courage to fight in front of the woman in red.


    The army rushed out of the city, galloping madly towards the east.


    After running for a while, Xiang Bu''s expression changed as if he had realized something. He turned back to look at his army and then said to the generals behind him, "Full speed to Moonlight City!"


    "Yes!" the generals responded.


    Then, Xiang Bu suddenly elerated, leaving only an afterimage before disappearing from the spot.


    "General Xiang is running away on his own," the generals exchanged nces.


    "Everyone, themander only said to head to Moonlight City, not how to get there. Let''s split up into five groups and take different routes!" a general suggested.


    "Agreed!" the generals immediately replied and swiftly split up.


    Four hourster...


    Xiang Bu was fleeing desperately because Jian Hong had caught up to him. Half an hour ago, Jian Hong had suddenly appeared in front of Xiang Bu, looking at him coldly.


    Without Jian Hong making a move, Xiang Bu naturally turned and fled.


    Shortly after, Jian Hong appeared again in front of Xiang Bu, and Xiang Bu naturally changed direction to flee.


    It seemed like a cat catching a mouse; Jian Hong frightened Xiang Bu into fleeing in all directions.


    Gradually, Xiang Bu suddenly realized that Jian Hong wasn''t ying around but was driving him towards a certain ce.


    Moonlight City, south of the city.


    Jian Hong drove him back here, where he had left the bodies of a million people hanging earlier.


    When he saw this, Xiang Bu''s body hair suddenly rose.


    Xiang Bu had previously been puzzled as to why the woman had taken three and a half hours to find herself and saw the city before him.


    Jian Hong reached out and carefully examined the memory crystal. Xiang Bu thought of using this opportunity to escape, but suddenly, ten massive earth spikes rose from the ground in a sword-like formation, trapping Xiang Bu in the center.


    It was a warning to Xiang Bu!


    Xiang Bu waited quietly, not daring to provoke the woman in red any further.


    After reviewing the contents of the memory crystal, the woman in red suddenly closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Without opening her eyes, she asked, "Where is Qi Tianhou?"


    "Valley of Ten Thousand Apes, it''s written on the memory crystal. He should still be there. Senior, it''s not my doing, General Xiao''s death wasn''t at my hands!" Xiang Bu hurriedly replied.


    "Hoo~"


    Jian Hong suddenly opened her eyes, and a strong sword intent emanated from them. With just one nce, Xiang Bu felt a chill all over.


    "But you desecrated him," Jian Hong said coldly.


    With that said, her sword swiftly thrust towards Xiang Bu.


    Seeing the danger, Xiang Bu quickly drew his sword to meet Jian Hong''s attack.


    "Boom!"


    From the tip of Jian Hong''s sword, a huge ck sword shadow suddenly appeared, rushing towards Xiang Bu like a unstoppable force, crashing heavily on the city gate not far away.


    With a loud bang, the entire southern city gate tower trembled, and under this terrifying strike, the city gate opened with a loud noise.


    Too powerful! Xiang Bu wasn''t even a match for Jian Hong. No, he couldn''t even block a single strike from her. Split in two, dead to the core. Even Jian Hong''s strike severed Xiang Bu''s soul in two. He was thoroughly dead!


    After she sheathed her sword, Jian Hong looked towards the sky, sensing the direction. Valley of Ten Thousand Apes?


    With a step, a sh of sword light crossed the sky, and Jian Hong''s figure disappeared without a trace.


    Far in the periphery, scouts from various factionsy prone, not daring to breathe.


    Who is this woman? Too abnormal! Too powerful!


    Zhong Shan, Qian You, A Da, and A Er had originally aimed for Moonlight City to investigate Xiao Wang''s body. However, they were intercepted midway.


    Before a valley, a rugged-looking man bowed respectfully to Princess Qian You.


    "Princess, pleasee inside," the man said to Princess Qian You.


    "Yuan Jiang? When did you notice us?" Princess Qian You stared at the man in front of her and asked.


    "I was sent by Qi Tianhou to find the princess in Sky City. It just happened that the princess came out that day, and the direction was here, so I''ve been following since then," the man exined respectfully.


    "You''ve been following us all this time?" Princess Qian You''s eyes shed with a hint of coldness.


    "Please forgive me, I am also acting under Qi Tianhou''s orders," the man quickly replied.


    Princess Qian You nced at Zhong Shan, who gave her a reassuring look.


    "Let''s go," Princess Qian You frowned.


    "Please," Yuan Jiang immediately responded.


    Following Yuan Jiang, the four entered the valley.


    Within the valley, there were some buildings, mostly crude, but as they ventured deeper, the structures became more refined and even splendid.


    Numerous apes and monkeys wielding knives and staves were jumping around, but upon seeing Yuan Jiang leading the four, they naturally kept their distance, not daring to approach.


    They continued until they reached the deepest part of the valley. There stood the most magnificent pce! Above the pce que, three words were prominently disyed: "Pce of Ten Thousand Apes."


    Surrounding the pce were a dozen or so guards wielding sticks, protecting the pce diligently.


    However, Zhong Shan noticed something peculiar��they all had ears covered in fur.


    Ape Generals? Over a dozen of them? These were all Emperor Realm experts among apes and monkeys!


    "Iing, Qian You!" Qi Tianhou''s figure suddenly appeared at the entrance of the great hall.


    Qi Tianhou still adorned himself in proud armor.


    Upon stepping out of the hall, Qi Tianhou immediately fixed his gaze on Princess Qian You. Then, he nced at A Da, A Er, and finally at Zhong Shan. When his eyes met Zhong Shan''s, Qi Tianhou raised an eyebrow.


    "Qian You,e inside," Qi Tianhou said.


    Upon hearing Qi Tianhou''s affectionate address, Princess Qian You furrowed her brow, ncing at Zhong Shan as if afraid of his disapproval. Qi Tianhou, observing this, grew cold momentarily, but in the next moment, that chill turned into a faint smile.


    Zhong Shan shook his head, indicating that everything was alright.


    "Alright," Princess Qian You nodded.


    Together, they entered the grand hall. Inside, a sumptuous feast wasid out.


    "Please, everyone, take a seat!" Qi Tianhou gestured from the main seat.


    Below were two rows of tables.


    On the right side were four seats, upied by Princess Qian You, Zhong Shan, A Da, and A Er.


    On the left were two seats, upied by two ape generals, one of whom was the guide Yuan Jiang from earlier.


    "This is General Yuan Fei," Qi Tianhou pointed to the guide and introduced.


    "And this is General Yuan Xin. Not long ago, it was General Yuan Xin who led the hundred apes to capture Xiao Wang," Qi Tianhou said with a smile.


    Both ape generals nodded at Princess Qian You, who returned the gesture.


    "Lord Dongfang? Marshal Dongfang? The Copse n! The downfall of the Da Yu Dynasty in four years, I admire it!" Qi Tianhou suddenly turned his attention to Zhong Shan.


    "Qi Tianhou is too kind. I am ashamed," Zhong Shan replied, feeling increasingly uneasy.


    With a wicked smile, Qi Tianhou continued, "There seems to be some misunderstanding between Lord Dongfang and me! Perhaps there was some misunderstanding before I recovered my memories! However, with Qian You here today, regardless of any misunderstandings, let''s forget about them!"


    "Qi Tianhou jests. There is no misunderstanding between us!" Zhong Shan replied quickly. Nevertheless, he grew more vignt. What was wrong with this Qi Tianhou?


    "Hehe, Lord Dongfang is right!" Qi Tianhou chuckled, then waved his hand.


    Two wine-pouring maids appeared behind Qi Tianhou��one poured wine for Qi Tianhou, Yuan Fei, and Yuan Xin, while the other poured wine for Princess Qian You, Zhong Shan, A Da, and A Er.


    "Gulin, why did you summon us here?" Princess Qian You asked.


    "I summoned you here for an important matter to discuss. Let''s eat and talk. I''ll toast you all first!" Qi Tianhou raised his wine cup and smiled.


    Princess Qian You frowned slightly but still lifted her wine cup. A Da and A Er naturally followed suit.


    As Zhong Shan picked up his wine cup, his eyebrows suddenly furrowed, quickly returning to normal. In that moment of contact with the wine cup, Zhong Shan detected something unusual in the wine�� the world''s finest aphrodisiac, Red Phoenix Mist, in its concentrated form! Moreover, the grade of this Red Phoenix Mist was exceptionally high,pletely colorless and tasteless.


    Most people wouldn''t notice, but was Zhong Shan an ordinary person? Zhong Shan was the kind of person who knew about such things!

 Chapter 342: Spiritual Realm

    <h4>Chapter 342: Spiritual Realm</h4>


    Gazing at the cup filled with the mist of the Red Phoenix liquor, Zhongshan smiled faintly and looked up at Qitianhou.


    Normally, Qitianhou''s pride would never stoop so low, yet he had done so now. It seemed his obsession with Qianyou ran deep indeed. But what did it matter how deep it ran? Even if it ran deep, she was not his!


    Qitianhou was the first to finish his drink, and Qianyou hadn''t expected him to drug the wine. Thus, she drank it all in one go, followed by Ada and A''er, who had no reason to refuse. As for Yuanfei and Yuanxin, their wine was poured by another maid and they were naturally unafraid.


    "Dongfanghou, why aren''t you drinking?" Qitianhou stared at Zhongshan.


    With a faint smile, Zhongshan finished his drink in one gulp.


    Once everyone had finished their drinks, Qitianhou smiled satisfactorily.


    "Alright, Gulin, if you have something to say, say it!" Princess Qianyou spoke.


    "Good, since you''ve asked, I''ll say it! I want you... to be my woman!" Qitianhou abandoned his previous courtesy, speaking with dominance.


    "Huh..." Princess Qianyou immediately stood up. "Gulin, I''ve made it clear to you. It''s impossible between us. I appreciate your care when we were young, but we can only have a sibling rtionship. Please don''t say such things again!"


    Seeing Princess Qianyou stand up, Gulin widened his eyes. "Qianyou, you were originally my wife. What''s wrong with being my woman? Sibling rtionship? Haha, what a joke. How could someone who belongs to Gulin be a sister? Is it because of him?"


    "This has nothing to do with Zhongshan. My decisions are mine alone!" Princess Qianyou retorted.


    "In that case, what if I kill him?" Gulin suddenly produced a purple-gold patterned dragon staff.


    "You dare!" Princess Qianyou''s eyes widened suddenly, swiftly moving to shield Zhongshan.


    The atmosphere in the hall suddenly tensed. Yuanfei and Yuanxin stood up, Ada and A''er quickly following suit.


    However, just as Princess Qianyou shielded Zhongshan, in that instant, her body seemed to sway as if about to fall, her face flushed red.


    Ada and A''er were simrly affected by the Red Phoenix liquor.


    The world''s number one aphrodisiac proved itself.


    The three tried to detoxify quickly, but Yuanfei suddenly dashed in front of Ada and A''er, palm aimed at each. Ada and A''er swiftly met his palms.


    "Boom!"


    The collision caused no major damage but effectively halted Ada and A''er''s detoxification efforts.


    Ada and A''er quickly stepped back, but Yuanfei pressed on, preventing their detoxification.


    Meanwhile, Yuanxin moved to stand before Zhongshan, a stick in hand aimed directly at him. With astonishing speed, he imprinted a hand seal on Princess Qianyou, sealing her power and preventing her from detoxifying.


    "You... you drugged the wine?" Princess Qianyou stared incredulously at Gulin.


    Never would she have imagined that her childhoodpanion would drug her. Disappointment filled her eyes.


    "Drugged it? Hahaha, you forced my hand. It''s because of this guy. If you were still by my side, would I have done this? Qianyou, you are mine. No one can take you away. Even if I can''t win back your heart, I will have your person!" Gulin suddenly grew extremely agitated.


    "You... you''ve be terrifying!" Princess Qianyou stepped back, retreating to Zhongshan''s side.


    Now, everyone was trapped, so Gulin and Yuanfei paid no mind to Princess Qianyou''s actions.


    "Terrifying? I don''t want it to be this way either. All of this is caused by him. Zhongshan, if it weren''t for him, would I be like this? Today, I give you two choices: either be my woman, and I''ll let Zhongshan go, or I''ll kill Zhongshan, and you''ll still be my woman!" Gulin''s eyes turned bloodshot as he spoke.


    "Whoosh... Whoosh... Whoosh..."


    The Red Phoenix mist gradually intensified, causing Qianyou''s face to flush deeper red.


    Kill Zhongshan? The princess''s initial disbelief turned into hatred, directed at Gulin. She hated her childhood ymate.


    She nced at Zhongshan, a flicker of anguish passing through her eyes. It was an agonizing decision, extremely difficult to make.


    Yuanxin''s staff pointed directly at Zhongshan. At Gulin''smand, Zhongshan would be smashed to pieces.


    Die? How could Princess Qianyou let Zhongshan die? But now, the drug''s effects grew stronger, and Princess Qianyou found it increasingly hard to endure.


    At that moment, Zhongshan, before Princess Qianyou, revealed a faint smile, gently grasping her hand.


    "You scoundrel!"


    Qitianhou roared, and as if receiving amand, Yuanxin swung his staff at Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan turned, eyes cold.


    "Boom!"


    A sh of golden light burst from Zhongshan. Yuanfei was sent flying backward, along with Zhongshan''s clothes exploding from the bacsh of a cassock he wore.


    A ninth-grade magic treasure, the Purple Wood Cotton Cassock.


    Meanwhile, Princess Qianyou''s eyes gradually cleared. Zhongshan had extracted all the drug''s power with a gentle touch.


    At this moment, Gulin realized something was amiss. Throughout it all, Zhongshan seemed unaffected by the poison?


    "Gulin, from today onward, our ties are severed!" Princess Qianyou''s voice carried fury.


    With that, she grabbed Zhongshan''s hand and rushed out of the hall!


    "Damn it, the Hundred Ape Array!" Qitianhou suddenly shouted.


    Outside the hall, Ada and A''er were already in dire straits, eyes bloodshot but still somewhat clear-headedpared to Yuanfei, who was much worse off.


    "Ada, A''er,e here!" Zhongshan called out.


    Ada and A''er reflexively rushed to Zhongshan''s side, shielding him and Princess Qianyou.


    Zhongshan ced a palm on each of their backs. In an instant, their eyes cleared up.


    The recovered duo was drenched in cold sweat.


    Escape!


    But it was toote. Following Gulin''s roar, a hundred giant apes suddenly surrounded the hall. Each towering around forty meters tall, they wielded massive clubs, pointing directly at Zhongshan and his group. Among them were Yuanxin, Yuanfei, and countless guards from the Wan Yuan Pce.


    Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan, Ada, and A''er were trapped!


    "Qitianhou! How dare you defy me like this?" Princess Qianyou red fiercely.


    The moment Princess Qianyou uttered "Qitianhou," it marked theplete severance of their former friendship. Defiance was emphasized, affirming her status as princess!


    Gulin stepped out of the hall, shaking his head. "Qianyou, you won''t escape. I won''t let you! Today, Zhongshan will die!"


    "Let me die?" Zhongshan''s voice chilled.


    "I know your cassock is a ninth-grade magic treasure, but even so, it''s not invincible!" Qitianhou''s voice turned cold as he nted his purple-gold patterned dragon staff firmly into the ground.


    Boom! The entire valley trembled.


    Zhongshan raised an eyebrow as he nced at the purple-gold patterned dragon staff. It seemed to be a ninth-grade magic treasure as well.


    "Today, let''s see whose treasure is more powerful, your Golden Cicada Cassock or my staff!" Qitianhou flourished his long staff.


    But just as Qitianhou prepared to strike, he suddenly paused. Not just him��everyone froze momentarily. Within the circle of apes surrounding them, where only Qianyou, Zhongshan, Ada, and A''er had been, there was now another person, a woman in red!


    The arrival of the woman in red was so abrupt that it seemed as though no one had noticed her until she spoke.


    "Who are you?" Qitianhou raised an eyebrow.


    "The wife of Xiao Wangzhi, Sword Hong!" the woman in red dered suddenly.


    "Sword God Pce? Sword Hong?" Qitianhou''s eyes widened.


    "Activate the Hundred Ape Array!" Qitianhou roared once more.


    Hummm...


    A clear sound rang out. Zhongshan suddenly felt the surroundings turning extraordinarily clear and white. Everything around them vanished into a white expanse. Only the four of them remained, alongside the unexpected appearance of Sword Hong.


    "The Hundred Ape Array is formed by a hundredbined-phase apes, using their spiritual awareness and magical power to construct a spiritual realm, simr to the mental duel between King Daxuan and Nn Piaoxue of old!" Princess Qianyou immediately exined to Zhongshan.


    "The Hundred Ape Array? Is this the formation that killed my husband?" Sword Hong looked to the sky, taking a deep breath.


    Whoosh...


    Suddenly, a figure appeared before everyone��Yuanxin. In Yuanxin''s hand was Qitianhou''s purple-gold patterned dragon staff, hurtling towards Sword Hong with extreme speed.


    Sword Hong moved swiftly, a ck sword thrusting towards the dragon staff.


    Boom!


    In the white expanse, countless shadows of clubs suddenly appeared, each exuding a powerful and violent aura, all converging towards Sword Hong. However, with just one swift motion of her sword, Sword Hong effortlessly destroyed all the club shadows surrounding her. She then pierced her sword towards the purple-gold patterned dragon staff.


    Ding!


    The sword and staff collided with a crisp sound. Yuanxin staggered back hundreds of meters, while Sword Hong only took a single step back.


    Sword Hong had defended against the attack aimed at her, but what about the other four? The club shadows seemed to deliberately avoid Ada, A''er, and Qianyou, directly mming towards Zhongshan.


    From all directions, clubs shadows overwhelmed the area, forming a domain-like structure aimed at reducing Zhongshan to a pulp.


    Hawoooooo...


    A strange sound echoed, and the terrifying club shadows suddenly vanished into thin air. Gone, just like that! Ada, A''er, and Qianyou looked strangely at Zhongshan, who had just been in danger from the club shadows surrounding him!


    Gone?


    Gone, devoured��devoured by Zhongshan''s Root Spiritual Awareness Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail. At this moment, Zhongshan felt strangely as if even in this mental realm, the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail could manifest itself!


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail manifested?


    So, this was the mental duel?

 Chapter 343:The pinnacle of the Sovereign

    <h4>Chapter 343:The pinnacle of the Sovereign</h4>


    The shadowy clubs were ineffective. Even without the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail, Zhongshan still had the Purple Cotton Cassock. However, something very strange was happening: in this spiritual world, nothing could be used except for ninth-grade magic treasures.


    "The swords in Ada and A''er''s hands disappeared, and I can''t even retrieve anything from my storage bracelet?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "This is a spiritual world. External magic treasures arepletely useless here unless you possess a ninth-grade magic treasure with a spiritual essence, or your own spiritual awareness," Princess Qianyou exined immediately.


    "Spiritual world?" Zhongshan frowned warily.


    "Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail manifesting? Zhongshan didn''t want it to manifest. Although the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail was extremely powerful, its current strength was still too weak. Moreover, Zhongshan didn''t want to expose it.


    In the distance, Sword Hong thrust her ck sword, and sword energy filled the surrounding skies. Countless sword energies surged towards Yuanxin, who countered swiftly with the Purple-Gold Patterned Dragon Staff.


    The Hundred Ape Array utilized the spiritual essence of a hundredbined-phase apes, forming a specific array to create this spiritual realm. Their physical bodies remained outside, while their spirits entered this spiritual world.


    "Wasn''t the mental duel between King Daxuan and Nn Piaoxue like this?" Zhongshan asked with a furrowed brow.


    "No, theirs was a true spiritual world. This is only an iplete one," Princess Qianyou replied.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan was surprised.


    "In King Daxuan''s spiritual world, each could create whatever they desired with their spiritual power��armies, dragons, phoenixes��anything they imagined could exist. In contrast, this one is empty. However, it''s not bad either. The Hundred Ape Array, created using the spiritual essence of a hundredbined-phase apes ording to an array method, has constructed this space, which is already remarkable," Princess Qianyou exined.


    During their conversation, arge number of club shadows surged towards everyone. However, upon encountering Zhongshan, they suddenly disappeared. This reassured Princess Qianyou and the others, although they were still very puzzled by this strange phenomenon. But when had Zhongshan failed to bring them doubts?


    "The main array controller of the Hundred Ape Array is Yuanxin!" Princess Qianyou said.


    In the distance, Sword Hong swung her long sword repeatedly, unleashing endless sword energy. Even within the Hundred Ape Array, she was not at a disadvantage. Her sword swiftly struck out again and again, each time striking heavily against the Purple-Gold Patterned Dragon Staff.


    "The Sword God Pce Master is indeed extraordinary!" Princess Qianyou sighed.


    "Sword Hong? Has she already surpassed the Imperial Realm?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "No, although she has the upper hand, she is still at the Imperial Realm, with her cultivation reaching the pinnacle of the Imperial Realm. She is only one step away from reaching the Emperor Realm, the height attained by King Daxuan!" Princess Qianyou took a deep breath.


    "Emperor Realm?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yes, the Emperor Realm. If she reaches the Emperor Realm, she could instantly break through the Hundred Ape Array. This iplete spiritual world cannot trap an Emperor Realm expert at all. However, once someone below the Emperor Realm enters, there is no escape, or rather, once someone at the Imperial Realm enters, there is no possibility of escape! Moreover, judging from the current situation, Yuanxin is also at the peak of the Imperial Realm," Princess Qianyou exined.


    "But Sword Hong hasn''t lost, right?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "The Sword God Pce, she is the second-generation Pce Master, specializing in the sword. The sword is a weapon of ughter, and Sword Hong''s swordsmanship is extremely destructive. Therefore, Sword Hong''s power often disys the strength of the early Emperor Realm. Coupled with her ninth-grade divine sword, her power is limitless. Even if Yuanxin is at the peak of the Emperor Realm outside, he would not be her match, because Sword Hong''s swordsmanship is too powerful!" Princess Qianyou exined.


    In the distance, amid the frantic battle between Sword Hong and Yuanxin, Sword Hong''s strength was formidable. Even trapped in the spiritual world and unable to harness the power of heaven and earth, each of her strikes was executed with extreme decisiveness. Every sword unleashed countless sword energies, tearing through the void like a million swords tearing through the air.


    Even within the Hundred Ape Array, Yuanxin was forced back repeatedly! She''s too strong!


    This was just within the array; if they were outside, Yuanxin wouldn''t even have the courage to face Sword Hong in battle. Endless shadows of clubs surrounded Zhongshan, but suddenly vanished.


    Zhongshan looked at Yuanxin in the distance, his eyes narrowing. Earlier, under themand of General Qitian, Yuanxin had aimed to crush him with a single strike of his club.


    "Sword Hong, let me assist you!" Zhongshan suddenly dered.


    Suddenly, Zhongshan waved his hand. Nothing was visible, leaving everyone puzzled.


    "Hum~~~" Suddenly, the spiritual world around them trembled.


    "Boom~~~" The spiritual world copsed, and everyone returned to reality once again!


    They were still standing within the Hundred Ape Array, just moments ago they were in the spiritual realm, and now they were back in reality, as if they had just awakened from a dream.


    "Back to reality? Returned?" The eyes of the hundred great apes suddenly turned red, and they began breathing heavily.


    Hongluan Mist, this was the freshest Hongluan Mist. Zhongshan released the Hongluan Mist, disturbing the minds of the apes. Their disrupted minds caused the spiritual world to suddenly copse!


    As for why Zhongshan said "Sword Hong, let me assist you!" before releasing the Hongluan Mist, perhaps Sword Hong didn''t actually need Zhongshan''s help, but Zhongshan spoke first and then helped.


    Zhongshan noticed something: Sword Hong''s eyes were numb and indifferent, viewing everything as lifeless. What kind of state was this? Xiaowang had died. She was Xiaowang''s wife, now she was indifferent to the world, only seeking revenge. This was beyond heartbreak, and now he could only say that Sword Hong was heartless, devoid of any emotion.


    It was only a matter of time before Sword Hong defeated Yuanxin. What would happen after that? Sword Hong certainly wouldn''t have any friendship with Zhongshan''s party. Killing them together wouldn''t be difficult to understand, so Zhongshan wanted to nt a seed in her mind, a seed that she couldn''t kill him.


    Sure enough, the spiritual world copsed after Zhongshan finished speaking.


    Sword Hong paused slightly, turned her head to look at Zhongshan, but still showed no emotion, then turned to look around.


    For Zhongshan, this slight turn of Sword Hong''s head was enough, enough for Zhongshan''s party.


    As the spiritual world copsed, Yuanxin was wounded by Sword Hong''s sword with a single strike.


    "Sovereign, run!" Yuanxin''s first words uponing out were a panicked shout.


    "Ssss~~~~" Sword Hong''s killing spree continued, and with a turn of her hand, a crescent-shaped light shed.


    "Puff~~~~" Yuanxin spat out blood and flew backwards.


    Sword Hong''s sword remained unstained by blood, but all the hundredbined-phase apes around her had theirrge clubs broken, and a red line overflowed from their chests��not a red thread, but rather where their bodies had been cut in two.


    All hundred great apes were struck, all cleaved through the chest!


    Yuanfei grabbed General Qitian and swiftly flew towards the sky, while Yuanxin threw the Purple-Gold Patterned Dragon Staff into the air, chasing after General Qitian. Yuanxin then wielded his own staff, leading the apes to charge at Sword Hong to intercept her.


    Ada, A''er, Zhongshan, and Princess Qianyou hurriedly fled towards the outskirts of the valley.


    At this moment, just as Zhongshan had calcted, Sword Hong swung her sword, unleashing millions of sword qi. Previously, it was merely a mental confrontation, but now she could harness the power of heaven and earth.


    Too strong! Millions of sword qi densely shot in all directions within the valley. However, these sword qi intentionally avoided Zhongshan''s group.


    Zhongshan''s group quickly dashed out of the valley and flew to the outside.


    "Squeak~~~~~"


    "Ah~~~~~"


    ... The miserable cries of the apes echoed incessantly. They were extremely tragic, yet helpless.


    Sword Hong was indeed too powerful. Her sword technique was so formidable that countless apes and monkeys had nowhere to escape. Sword qi, endless sword qi.


    In the sky and on the ground, all there was, was Sword Hong''s sword qi. The surroundings of the valley were enveloped in imprable sword qi.


    Massacre, the ultimate massacre by Sword Hong! A cultivation at the pinnacle of the Sovereign Realm, yet possessing the strength of the Emperor Realm!


    "Ah~~~~~"


    "Ah~~~~~"


    ... The cries continued, but they became fewer and fewer.


    Now, Sword Hong was only ying the Sovereign Realm ape generals.


    Standing outside the valley, besides the endless sword qi, there was also the sword light, illuminating the entire sky as if it were daylight.


    "Boom~~~~~"


    With wounds all over her body, Yuanxin ascended into the sky, attempting to flee.


    "Boom~~~~~"


    Millions of sword qi suddenly converged, forming a super giant sword qi that shot towards Yuanxin.


    "Ssss~~~~~"


    The body that Yuanxin had just escaped from was cut in half by a single strike.


    Too strong! Both Yuanxin and Sword Hong were at the peak of the Sovereign Realm, but Sword Hong was simply too dominant! Under Sword Hong''s overwhelming strength, even with numerous helpers and countless apes, Yuanxin was still in by Sword Hong''s overpowering strike.


    The Sword of Utter Heartlessness!


    Yuanxin died, and all the other ape generals and great apes in the valley died as well. In less than the time it takes to burn a stick of incense, no, even less, Sword Hong had ruthlessly ughtered them all!


    The dominant Sword Hong!


    In an instant, Sword Hong flew out of the valley, nced around, and followed the direction where Yuanfei and General Qitian had fled, transforming into a streak of sword light and swiftly pursuing!


    "The pinnacle of the Sovereign Realm?" Zhongshan deeply sucked in a breath.


    Too powerful! If Sword Hong appeared on the battlefield like this, there would be no need to fight! She would absolutely ughter the enemy army!


    Cultivation, realm, strength! Indeed, these three couldn''t bepared!


    Zhongshan, together with Qianyou, Ada, and A''er, flew back into the Valley of Ten Thousand Apes once again. However, at this moment, the valley was already a mess. If it weren''t for the formation keeping the valley solid, there would be no mountains left around here!


    "General Qitian is in trouble!" Ada eximed.


    "The hatred of killing one''s husband, pursuing relentlessly to the death!" Princess Qianyou''s voice was heavy.


    Qianyou had alreadypletely severed her friendship with Gulin. Otherwise, even if she didn''t help, her attitude wouldn''t be so indifferent now.

 Chapter 344: The Wheel Hall of the Shadow Mansion

    <h4>Chapter 344: The Wheel Hall of the Shadow Mansion</h4>


    Jian Hong relentlessly pursued Qi Tianhou, vowing not to stop until he saw him dead. Meanwhile, Zhongshan and Princess Qian You returned to their own army.


    As for whether Qi Tianhou lived or died, neither Zhongshan nor Princess Qian You paid much attention. However, Zhongshan couldn''t help but feel that Qi Tianhou must have managed to escape Jian Hong''s grasp. He wondered at what cost.


    Three monthster, Shui Wuheng once again captured a city. Leaving a garrison behind, the main army converged again in Guanghui City.


    Inside the Lord''s Mansion of Guanghui City, in the central hall, Zhongshan sat behind themand table with his generals standing on either side.


    "Zhao Chuan, well done!" Zhongshan praised without hesitation.


    "General Zhao did nothing!" Zhao Chuan immediately responded.


    "Doing nothing is exactly what''smendable. I trust you to defend the city, and not one was lost!" Zhongshan chuckled.


    "General Zhao would rather charge into battle with the Commander-in-Chief. It''s a pity to be stuck here!" Zhao Chuan said regretfully.


    "Haha, rest assured, your time to shine wille soon," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Shui Wuheng and Liu Wushuang have also done well. In less than four months, they''ve taken another city!" Zhongshan grinned.


    "No, General, we only took one city. Compared to the other armies, we are far behind," Shui Wuheng shook his head with a sigh.


    "Oh? Are you talking about Shui Jing''s troops?"


    "Yes, General. Since the news of Xiao Wang''s death, Shui Jing''s army has been unstoppable, capturing twenty cities in just three months. This pace is even faster than when you captured twelve cities in Linhai within five months!" Shui Wuheng frowned.


    "Indeed, General, twenty cities in three months, that''s one city every six days, including consolidating their control. It seems unreal!" Liu Wushuang added, frowning.


    "Shui Jing? He''s truly a remarkable talent. But you''ve only just seen a glimpse of his abilities. Over the years on the battlefield of the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty, Shui Jing has quietly led his forces, never seeking fame but always steady and reliable. Despite Xiao Wang''s frequent ambushes and disturbances, did they ever catch Shui Jing off guard?" Zhongshan asked.


    "ording to the Commander-in-Chief, it seems so. Although Shui Jing''s sieges were standard, Xiao Wang''s several ambushes never yielded results," Shui Wuheng pondered.


    "That''s because Shui Jing had already anticipated them. Those twenty cities weren''t taken in three months; he beganying the groundwork from the moment he arrived at the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty''s battlefield. It''s just that the time wasn''t ripe until Xiao Wang died. Then, with lightning speed, he swiftly took twenty cities," Zhongshan affirmed.


    "Shui Jing''s determination is truly admirable!" Shui Wuheng sighed.


    "A leader must have great patience and determination. Remember that," Zhongshan instructed Shui Wuheng.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuheng nodded.


    "Now that Xiao Wang is dead and news of Shui Jing capturing twenty cities is out, the morale of the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty will surely plummet. Let''s take advantage of our momentum and aggressively attack! Our target: the capital of the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty, Aurora City!" Zhongshan dered.


    "Yes!" the generals responded.


    Six monthster, On the battlefield of the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty, the Great Xuan King dispatched numerous armies from the Great Yu Dynasty battlefield, along with several additional routes, totaling twenty armies including Shui Jing''s. Theyunched a full-scale assault on the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty.


    Though not as easy to conquer as the Great Yu Emperor Dynasty initially was, twenty armies were akin to a flood, unstoppable.


    The defense of the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty had be exceedingly perilous. With the Grand Commander dead and his sessorcking the talents of Xiao Wang, coupled with Shui Jing''s rapid capture of twenty cities, the morale of the various garrisons was severely shaken. The Great Guang Emperor Dynasty was in danger.


    In the capital city of the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty, Aurora City...


    The Emperor of the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty, Emperor Han Jiaguang, had founded his empire with unparalleled arrogance and vigor, despite its twilight years. He exuded not just regal aura, but also an overbearing dominance that rivaled all under heaven. Without such dominance, how could he have built such a vast empire across the divinend of China?


    Inside the imperial pce, within Emperor Han Jiaguang''s study...


    Emperor Han Jiaguang sat at his desk, perusing the battle reports sent from various regions. Hisplexion was fair and noble, but his eyes were icy cold, capable of freezing anyone who dared meet his gaze.


    Despite the chaotic state of the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty''s military affairs, Emperor Han Jiaguang remained calm andposed, as if nothing under the heavens could rush him.


    Standing before Emperor Han Jiaguang were three men, each handsome and robust. Thest among them, if Zhongshan were present, would immediately recognize as Prince Han Jue, formerly targeted by Yi Yan in the Great Yu Dynasty to assault Princess Qian You, and who had witnessed the overwhelming power of the Eight Extremities Heaven''s End in Fengling City alongside Zhongshan.


    "Father Emperor, the situation in the northeast is deteriorating rapidly! How should we respond?" the first man spoke.


    "Yes, Father Emperor, with Xiao Wang dead, the new Grand Commander is utterly useless. Of the one hundred and eighty cities in the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty, we''ve already lost sixty!" the second man anxiously reported.


    Emperor Han Jiaguang gently ced down the letters in his hand and said, "It''s not sixty cities anymore. By now, it should be sixty-five."


    "Sixty-five cities?" all three princes frowned.


    "Father Emperor, your sons are willing to go to the front lines to boost the morale of our troops and resist the iing enemy!" Prince Han Jue offered.


    "I too am willing!" the other two princes immediately chimed in.


    Seeing his sons, Emperor Han Jiaguang smiled faintly and said, "Rest assured, even the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty will soon find it impossible to capture a single city!"


    "Uh, Father Emperor, do you already have a n?" Prince Han Jue asked.


    "I believe it''s about to arrive," Emperor Han Jiaguang said, taking a deep breath.


    Just then, a eunuch''s voice sounded from outside the room, "Your Majesty, he has arrived!"


    "Let him in," Emperor Han Jiaguang ordered.


    As Emperor Han Jiaguang spoke, he rose slightly, causing all three princes to stand as well, filled with curiosity. Who could warrant such solemnity from their father Emperor?


    The doors opened slowly, and a figure in ck robes entered. The person waspletely enveloped in ck, with even their head obscured, making their identity indiscernible.


    "Han Jiaguang, are you in trouble?" the figure in ck spoke softly.


    "Are you still the Muddy Bodhisattva?" Emperor Han Jiaguang stared at the figure in ck.


    "The Muddy Bodhisattva is singr, but not solitary. The previous Muddy Bodhisattva has died, and I am the new one," the figure in ck replied.


    "Will the promises made by the former Muddy Bodhisattva still hold true?" Emperor Han Jiaguang fixed his gaze on the figure.


    "The Muddy Bodhisattva is the Muddy Bodhisattva. Promises made will naturally be fulfilled. When you assisted my master in sealing the Eight Extremities Heaven''s End, I vowed to help you once," the Muddy Bodhisattva said in a deep voice.


    "Good. As the Muddy Bodhisattva always keeps his word, out of the sixty-four cities of the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty, I have already arranged them ording to the sixty-four hexagrams as requested by your master. However, ten cities have already been taken by the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty," Emperor Han Jiaguang stated, locking eyes with the Muddy Bodhisattva.


    "Ten cities? It matters not who holds them. I practice Feng Shui, not politics. As long as the positions are correct, that''s all that matters!" The Muddy Bodhisattva took a deep breath.


    "If that''s the case, then all the better. When do you n to begin?" Emperor Han Jiaguang inquired.


    "In ten days'' time, at midnight, I wille to activate this grand Feng Shui formation," the Muddy Bodhisattva replied after a moment''s thought.


    "And is there anyone who can break this formation?" Emperor Han Jiaguang asked again, considering the possibility of a defensive and retaliatory strategy against the Great Luo Dynasty.


    "This Feng Shui formation is called the ''Rotating Hall of the Shadow Mansion.'' Inside the Rotating Hall, I am the Wheel Turner. Even if you enter, it will be difficult to leave," the Muddy Bodhisattva asserted confidently.


    "The Wheel Turner?" Emperor Han Jiaguang scrutinized the Muddy Bodhisattva.


    Capable of trapping oneself within a Feng Shui formation? Emperor Han Jiaguang smiled slightly and nodded.


    "Could we use this to counterattack against the Great Luo''s armies?" Emperor Han Jiaguang asked once more. Clearly, he hoped not only to defend but also to strike back at the Great Luo Dynasty.


    ncing at the assembled individuals, the Muddy Bodhisattva replied calmly, "The realm of the Netherworld is a ce of absolute death. It poses a threat not just to the armies of the Great Luo Dynasty but also to your own forces if they venture beyond the city walls. They will not return alive!"


    Upon hearing this, Emperor Han Jiaguang furrowed his brows slightly.


    "However, there is an exception," the Muddy Bodhisattva continued.


    "Oh? What exception?" Emperor Han Jiaguang asked curiously.


    "He is the exception!" Suddenly, the Muddy Bodhisattva pointed to Prince Han Jue standing nearby.


    All eyes turned to Prince Han Jue, filled with curiosity.


    "What do you mean?" Emperor Han Jiaguang asked, puzzled.


    "Is this your son?" the Muddy Bodhisattva countered.


    "Yes, he is my third son, Han Jue!" Emperor Han Jiaguang confirmed.


    "In the realm of the Netherworld, I immediately sensed it. Your son is no ordinary individual. He has assimted the essence of the Netherworld into his being. While this may not be advantageous elsewhere, within my Feng Shui formation, he fits like a fish in water, a dragon emerging from the nine abysses!" the Muddy Bodhisattva exined.


    Beside him, Prince Han Jue, after a brief moment of surprise, immediately bowed respectfully. "Elder, your insight is profound."


    Emperor Han Jiaguang looked at his son and then grinned oddly. "Han Jue!"


    "Here!" Prince Han Jue responded promptly.


    "I hereby appoint you as the Grand Commander of the Great Guang Emperor Dynasty. Lead the three armies and defend against the onught of the Great Luo Dynasty!" Emperor Han Jiaguang dered solemnly.


    "I will obey yourmand!" Prince Han Jue replied without hesitation.


    "The appointment decree will be transmitted to all cities shortly. In the meantime, you will consult with the venerable Muddy Bodhisattva on how to confront the enemy," Emperor Han Jiaguang stated.


    "Yes!" Prince Han Jue acknowledged immediately.


    Prince Han Jue naturally understood Emperor Han Jiaguang''s intentions. Apart from seeking advice on facing the enemy, it was also crucial to win over this Feng Shui master. If possible, he might even seek to be his disciple!


    Ignoring the conversation between father and son, the Muddy Bodhisattva turned to Prince Han Jue and said, "Let''s go. Let me see how far your so-called assimtion with the Netherworld has progressed."


    "Yes!" Prince Han Jue responded promptly.


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 345 - 345 :Mysterious Clouds and Mist

    <h4>Chapter 345: :Mysterious Clouds and Mist</h4>


    Zhongshan captured another city! This marked the second city taken by Zhongshan since the convergence at Guanghui City half a year ago.


    Standing on the floating ind above the City Lord''s Manor, Zhongshan surveyed the entire city. Princess Qianyou stood quietly beside him, not disturbing him, sensing a solemn atmosphere from Zhongshan''s slightly furrowed brow.


    The Great Emperor of Daguang Dynasty seemed to be in a precarious position. Xiao Wang had perished, and Shui Jing had broken through twenty cities in session, dealing a heavy blow to the defenders of the Daguang Dynasty. With each city breach, the defenses of the dynasty were steadily retreating.


    Many had lost hope for the Daguang Dynasty, but Zhongshan was not so pessimistic. His expression grew more serious because everything seemed unusually orchestrated.


    Decrees from the Daguang Dynasty spread across the regions. Observing these decrees, Zhongshan felt that the dynasty''s leader, the Great Emperor Daguang, known as Han Jiaguang, did not seem particrly anxious.


    The appointment of a new Grand Marshal seemed almost intentionally designed to lose battles, drawing the main forces of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty deep into the hearnds of the Daguang Dynasty.


    Why deep into the hearnds? What was the reason behind it all?


    Zhongshan sensed a brewing conspiracy, yet he couldn''t fathom its nature no matter how much he pondered.


    "Sigh..." Zhongshan sighed deeply, appearing utterly perplexed.


    "What''s wrong?" Princess Qianyou asked softly, seeing Zhongshan rx.


    "I feel something is amiss with the Daguang Dynasty, but I can''t quite grasp it," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "If you could figure everything out, you''d be like a god!" Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    "Yeah..." Zhongshan shook his head with a smile.


    At that moment, Zhongshan suddenly looked up towards the sky. Not only Zhongshan, but Princess Qianyou and everyone in the city also looked up at the sky.


    Clouds��a massive and thick cloud obscured the sun. In an instant, the world grew significantly darker.


    Clouds continued to gather, appearing inexplicably in one direction where there had been none before. Small clouds formed suddenly, expanding rapidly into gigantic formations. It wasn''t just one spot; the entire sky was filling with clouds. Though white, they blocked the sunlight, casting a gloomy shadow over thend.


    Simultaneously, outside the city, fog began to rise��dense, endless fog that obscured visibility beyond a kilometer.


    The sky turned exceedingly dark, and the fog outside seemed eerie, almost sinister.


    "What''s happening?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Is the weather changing?" Zhongshan frowned as well.


    Instantly, the entire city erupted into noise and confusion. What''s going on? How did the sky change like this? Clouds and mist?


    "Master!" Ada and A''er swiftly flew in from a distance.


    "Commander!" Zhihuo also flew over, his brow furrowed.


    The sudden eerie change in weather��what could it mean?


    Zhao Chuan, Shui Wuheng, and Liu Wushuang all arrived, because Zhongshan was the heart and soul of everyone here.


    What''s going on outside?


    "General, the city is extremely noisy inside. What''s going on? In just a short while, less than half an hour, it was scorching hot just now. How did it suddenly be so gloomy?" Shui Wuren frowned immediately.


    "Unrest the troops, calm the whole city. The rest of you,e with me to the South Gate!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" everyone responded immediately.


    Inside the city, everything was orderly under Shui Wuren''s management. Meanwhile, Zhongshan led the others to the South Gate.


    The South Gate was wide open, and everyone stood at the entrance looking outside the city.


    Seeing the scene outside the city, everyone frowned. Within a range of three hundred meters, the maximum visible distance, there was something eerie: not only did the thick fog obscure their vision, but it also seemed to block their divine senses.


    "This fog is suspicious. How can it restrict our divine senses?" Liu Wushuang furrowed her brow.


    "This seems more like a formation!" Zhao Chuan nodded.


    "But how could there be such arge formation? It covers the entire city, and earlier it seemed boundless, we never heard of such arge formation, and more importantly, we didn''t sense anything or hear any news about someone setting up a formation." Liu Wushuang frowned.


    "This looks like a Feng Shui formation!" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan looked at Princess Qianyou.


    "Last time, with that Zombie Emperor, inside the Tomb of Heaven''s Tribtion, didn''t we encounter a Feng Shui grand formation once? This one looks simr, just even more bizarre!" Princess Qianyou said.


    "Indeed, this is definitely not a natural phenomenon because this fog cannot enter the city and is isted by the city''s formation, indicating there is magical energy at y." Zhongshan affirmed.


    "No matter how big a Feng Shui formation is, it definitely has limits. If I fly up to the sky, above the clouds, these clouds surely can''t stretch to the stars." Zhao Chuan suddenly spoke up.


    "Yes, go straight up and down, be careful!" Zhongshan nodded.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan responded immediately.


    Subsequently, Zhao Chuan flew upwards.


    But just as he had flown up for a short while, everyone frowned. What''s going on?


    Didn''t Zhao Chuan fly straight up and down? How did he deviate just as he flew up?


    Zhao Chuan suddenly elerated.


    "Boom~~~" A loud noise suddenly came from not far away.


    "Ah~~~" Along with Zhao Chuan''s scream, everyone''s hearts tightened.


    Everyone wanted to run over, but Zhongshan waved his hand and stopped them all.


    "Zhao Chuan, are you okay?" Zhongshan called out to the distance.


    "I''m fine!" Zhao Chuan''s voice came from afar.


    "Thene over here!" Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" Zhao Chuan responded.


    This time, Zhao Chuan didn''t fly; instead, he slowly walked over following Zhongshan''s voice.


    Zhao Chuan''s face was swollen. Looking at Zhao Chuan, everyone felt strange. Did the flight fail? Did he fall?


    "What''s going on?" Zhongshan asked.


    "It''s weird!" Zhao Chuan looked confused. "I went straight up and down, not deviating at all. When I was flying upwards, everything was fine. It''s just that as I was flying,


    Suddenly, I hit something and thought I was under attack. I prepared to fight back, but when I looked again, I had created a crater in the ground. How did I suddenly end up on the ground? I was clearly flying upwards," Zhao Chuan said, bewildered.


    "So, in your mind, you were flying towards the sky all along, but for some reason, you suddenly found yourself on the ground, mistaking the ground for the sky and crashing down?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "General, let me try!" Liu Wushuang immediately spoke up.


    "Hmm," Zhongshan nodded.


    Liu Wushuang flew upwards, but like Zhao Chuan, her trajectory deviated as soon as she started flying. Liu Wushuang suddenly elerated and disappeared into the clouds.


    "Boom~~~" Another crashing sound echoed from a distance. Liu Wushuang had fallen to the ground.


    Everyone exchanged nces, swallowing nervously.


    After calling Liu Wushuang over, everyone fell silent.


    "Can this Feng Shui formation alter people''s sense of direction?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "No, the formation seems to have a power that moves people without them knowing," Liu Wushuang immediately spected.


    "Let''s find out," Zhongshan said.


    He picked up a stone and threw it straight up into the sky. Everyone watched as the stone maintained its trajectory. After entering the fog, it remained vertical for a while before dropping straight down.


    Looking at the stone, everyone fell into silence.


    The formation didn''t possess a particr force; rather, it could disrupt everyone''s sense of direction?


    "Let''s go back to the city," Zhongshan said.


    Turning around, he led everyone back into the city.


    "General, are we trapped?" Zhao Chuan asked, furrowing his brow.


    "Wait a bit longer. Let''s see if our scouts sent out cane back tomorrow!" Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" everyone agreed, though they felt extremely oppressed.


    A Feng Shui formation? What kind of Feng Shui formation was this?


    The next day, the scouts didn''t return. This meant people couldn''t go out; if they did, they''d immediately lose their way and never return, unable to even fly up to the sky. Guarding the city had be like guarding a dead city!


    Not just where Zhongshan was, but among all sixty-four cities of the Great Radiance Dynasty, mist enveloped everything. Within the fog, there was only confusion. The armies that had lurked in the mountains suddenly couldn''t find their way, couldn''t find the cities, only an endless foggy weather.


    Returning along their original path, they soon found themselves unable to find their way.


    In this eerie world, in this sinister environment, the sense of oppression was overwhelming. Especially when they couldn''t find the cities or each other, it was even more oppressive. One day was bearable, but after ten days of not finding their way, it became terrifying.


    Some units began to have deserters. The more deserters there were, the more oppressive it felt! With no way out, unable to fly to the heavens, what was happening here? What was going on?


    Some clever generals began to set up camps on the spot because they all believed that this foggy weather would pass. It had to pass.


    This was the Feng Shui formation of the Mud Bodhisattva, officially activated, turning the entire formation into a dead zone. No one could walk out, no one could escape. All that was left was endless loneliness, fear, and confusion!


    Hall of the Revolving Wheel in the Ghostly Mansion!


    This was just the beginning. The Feng Shui formation was exceptionally bizarre!


    Outside the sixty-four cities! The Great ck King stood in the middle of the military tent, quietly watching the vast endless white fog ahead. Behind him stood numerous generals and strategists.


    "My lord, scouts were sent in, but none have returned!" a general frowned.


    "Yes, my lord, what kind of formation is this? It''s so strange," another general worried.


    "This is a Feng Shui formation. The Great Radiance Dynasty actually invited a Feng Shui master. Interesting!" The Great ck King suddenly smiled strangely.


    "A Feng Shui formation?" the generals eximed in surprise.


    "Don''t worry, I''ve already sent someone to the ancient capital to send a message. Before long, the Old Heaven wille," the Great ck King said lightly.


    "Will Old Heaven reallye?" a nearby strategist frowned.


    "He will definitelye. Feng Shui masters are rare in thend of Shenzhou. Old Heaven won''t miss the opportunity to meet another Feng Shui master," Prime Minister Fan said.

 Chapter 346: TianLao

    <h4>Chapter 346: TianLao</h4>


    At the city where Zhongshan resided, atop the floating ind of the Lord''s Manor, Princess Qianyou, Ada, A''er, Zhihuo, Shui Wuren, Liu Wushuang, Zhao Chuan, and others surrounded Zhongshan.


    In front of Zhongshan was arge skyntern!


    The mist could disrupt people''s sense of direction, but that didn''t mean Zhongshan wouldpromise.


    "General, what are you doing?" Shui Wuren asked, puzzled.


    "I want to see if this thing can fly out, if it can reach above the clouds and escape the formation!" Princess Qianyou exined beside him.


    This was just an experiment. For Zhongshan, there was nothing that couldn''t be solved; there was only ack of effort to solve it.


    The skyntern was lit and slowly ascended. It flew slowly over the city''srge formation, continued upwards into the white mist.


    Everyone patiently waited because in this foggy weather, there was no wind, and no wind meant the final oue could be judged.


    An hour and a halfter, in the high-altitude mist, the skyntern fell back down again. The oil had run out, and thentern had burnt out!


    Thending spot of the skyntern was not far away. Zhongshan walked over immediately and picked up a memory crystal from the skyntern.


    "It didn''t fly out!" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Was there not enough oil inside?" Shui Wuren asked.


    "No, there''s a force at the white clouds that stopped it, or the air pressure there was a problem," Zhongshan said, taking a deep breath.


    "So, there''s no way out?" Zhao Chuan worried.


    "Don''t worry, there''s always a way," Zhongshan reassured everyone.


    "There must be a way. At worst, the Great ck King will definitely go find Old Heaven!" Princess Qianyou said.


    "Old Heaven? Will Old Heavene back?" Zhongshan asked.


    "He will definitelye!" Princess Qianyou said.


    "Hmm!" Zhongshan nodded.


    "Wuhen! Find some ropes to tie up the soldiers and let them stand outside the city. Ensure that within three thousand meters, if there''s an enemy attack, they can signal the rm immediately," Zhongshan ordered.


    "General, in this ghostly weather, will there really be enemies?" Shui Wuren asked, puzzled.


    "Don''t fear the ten thousand, just fear the one unexpected. With the thick fog, visibility is less than three hundred meters, and divine perception is less than five hundred meters. Standing on the city tower, even the base of the tower is invisible. If there''s an enemy attack, this city will be lost immediately. We''ll all be prisoners. This is the Feng Shui formation set up by the Great Radiance Dynasty. We must be cautious!" Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuren immediately responded.


    As Zhongshan had said, when everyone was trapped in the thick fog, a very peculiar team appeared within this misty Feng Shui formation!


    The vanguard of this team: moths!


    Prince Han Jue stood atop a mountain peak, arms spread wide. With a slight tremble, a huge ck moth shadow suddenly emerged from his body.


    The shadow of the moth was the heart of the Ghostly Emei that Mud Bodhisattva had mentioned! It was also the result of Prince Han Jue''s chance encounter with a dying Ghostly Emei, cutting its body and seizing its soul, then integrating it into his own soul ording to secret methods.


    Ordinary moths were not intelligent enough to discern Prince Han Jue''s identity; they only responded to the aura of the Emei. In this way, he could summon an endless number of moths from all over the world.


    Prince Han Jue waved his hand, and endless moths flew from all directions, covering the sky and earth. They circled around Prince Han Jue, rapidly swirling into various formations, presenting a magnificent sight.


    "Where are the enemy troops?" Prince Han Jue asked.


    The moths continued to hover in the sky, finally forming several small groups! They informed Prince Han Jue of the specific situation.


    Behind Prince Han Jue, within the valley, stood arge number of soldiers from the Great Radiance Dynasty, awaiting the prince''s orders. These troops had a distinct feature: a thousand long ropes that connected all three armies, and all troops marched on foot, holding onto these ropes together.


    Prince Han Jue waved his hand again, and the vast number of moths dispersed, seemingly going to carry out the tasks arranged by Prince Han Jue. Only a small portion remained.


    At this moment, Prince Han Jue flew down to the valley.


    "Your Highness! Are we not at risk of getting lost?" a general furrowed his brow.


    "This sky full of mist only disturbs sentient beings'' sense of direction and intelligence. It has no effect on animals that rely on instinct and subconscious survival. Rest assured!" Prince Han Jue said confidently.


    "Yes!" the concerned generals immediately responded.


    "Didn''t we already ughter a group of troops from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty earlier? Now is your chance to make merits. The Great Luo army is trapped in the fog and unable to advance. They are extremely scattered. After I finish off the scattered Great Luo soldiers, we will take back our cities!" Prince Han Jue said.


    "Yes!" the army roared in response.


    Three monthster! Zhongshan''s city.


    Zhongshan had already ascended to the top of the southern city tower. He looked at the persistent fog, his brow furrowed slightly. Although Qianyou repeatedly emphasized that Old Heaven woulde, what if even Old Heaven couldn''t solve this?


    Handing over one''s own safety to others wasn''t a feeling Zhongshan liked or identified with. He believed that one''s safety should be firmly grasped in one''s own hands.


    "Enemy attack! ~~~"


    "Dong~~~ Dong~~~ Dong~~~"


    A warning came from the east. The sound of war drums!


    As Zhongshan had expected, there was an enemy attack at the eastern gate!


    Zhongshan remained calm because he had made preparations early. The battle began at the eastern city tower, while defense continued on the south side.


    "Let''s go, let''s take a look!" Zhongshan said to Qianyou beside him.


    "Yes!" Princess Qianyou nodded.


    East of the city! Within the white fog.


    "Your Highness, the city''s defenses were well-prepared. ording to reason, they shouldn''t have been able to see us at all, only within a range of three hundred meters. When we reached the base of the city, they shouldn''t have been able to see us. However, when our men flew up to the city tower and reached a height of five hundred meters from the tower, they fell into their ambush, as if they had long been prepared!" a general expressed his worries.


    "Your Highness, this is our fourth city to capture. Previously, everything was fine, and we quickly reimed the cities. Why is it like this now? With such dense arrows, they must have been prepared long ago!" another general said.


    "Your Highness, we don''t have enough people with us. If this continues, our losses will be even greater. It''s better to first take other cities, return with more men, and then wipe them outpletely!" a strategist beside Prince Han Jue suggested.


    "Sound the retreat!" Prince Han Jue took a deep breath.


    "Yes!" the generals responded.


    When Zhongshan arrived at the eastern city tower, the battle had already ended. Shui Wuren was busy tallying the casualties of the battle. On top of the city tower, several generals and a dozen soldiers were bound. Ada, A''er, and Zhihuo stood there with slight excitement.


    "Sir, following your instructions, as soon as the battle began, the three of us specifically took charge of capturing the generals. Here are four generals for you to see. Is this enough?" Ada asked with a hint of excitement.


    "Well done!" Zhongshan smiled.


    Pleased with Zhongshan''s approval, the three peak-levelmanders smiled happily.


    "Take them all to the Lord''s Manor, I want to interrogate them!" Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" The guards immediately responded.


    Lord''s Manor! The generals gathered again.


    "General, this battle, we suffered very few losses. Just as the enemy flew within a range of five hundred meters, our Pogang arrows gave them the fiercest arrow rain. In this battle, we lost three hundred soldiers, while the enemy suffered at least forty thousand casualties," Shui Wuren said excitedly.


    "They were trying to ambush us, but we counter-ambushed them!" Zhongshan shook his head.


    "The General has foresight, he anticipated it long ago!" Shui Wuren admired.


    "But what about next time? Next time, Prince Hanjue will probably be prepared and will bring countless troops from Da Guang," Zhongshan asked.


    "Um?" Shui Wuren frowned.


    Yes, ording to the captured enemy generals, Prince Hanjue is unscrupulous in the heavy fog.


    "So what do we do?" Shui Wuren frowned and asked.


    "This city cannot be kept. Count the number of people. We will leave the city immediately," Zhongshan said confidently.


    "Leave the city? But General, the environment outside will interfere with our sense of direction!" Zhao Chuan said.


    "Hahaha, we have to thank Prince Hanjue for this! Such confidential information, he actually told the generals," Zhongshanughed.


    "Huh?" Zhao Chuan was puzzled.


    "Don''t worry, if I say we can get out, we can get out! Shui Wuren, Zhao Chuan, Liu Wushuang, you go organize the army and prepare the ropes. Let the soldiers grab them and don''t get lost! We will leave early tomorrow morning!" Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" Everyone immediately responded and quickly organized the army.


    "General, can you summon moths too?" Zhi Huo looked at Zhongshan in confusion.


    "It''s not me, it''s you!" Zhongshan looked at Zhi Huo and smiled.


    "Me?" Zhi Huo was puzzled.


    "Yes, as long as they are creatures without intelligence, we will go to the North Gate and summon packs of wolves. You will summon those wolves that have not yet be demon beasts, whose intelligence is not yet open, to guide us!" Zhongshan said confidently.


    "Yes!" Zhi Huo was slightly stunned and immediately responded excitedly.


    One monthter, in the North of the Da Guang battlefield, inside the central army tent, stood four people.


    Fan Yipin stood behind Da Xuan Wang, a very beautiful girl stood beside Da Xuan Wang. Directly opposite Da Xuan Wang was an old man with white hair, a very ugly face, some old age spots on his face, a hunchback, and a ck wooden stick in his hand.


    "Tian Lao, you finally came!" Da Xuan Wang took a deep breath and said respectfully.

 Chapter 347: Whimper

    <h4>Chapter 347: Whimper</h4>


    "Have you been waiting long?" Tian Lao, hunched over, said lightly. His voice was slightly hoarse and very unpleasant.


    After speaking, Tian Lao leaned on his strange cane and slowly walked outside, looking at the vast white mist before him.


    Seeing Tian Lao''s demeanor, Da Xuan Wang did not mind, nor did the others.


    Da Xuan Wang and Fan Yipin followed closely behind, while the charming little girl quickly ran to Tian Lao''s side.


    "Tian Lao, let me help you!" the little girl said sweetly.


    "Whimper, don''t be presumptuous!" Da Xuan Wang said in a deep voice.


    "Hehe! It''s fine!" Tian Lao said. His voice was very hoarse and unpleasant.


    But the girl named Whimper stuck her tongue out at Da Xuan Wang, her eyes bright with a triumphant look.


    Seeing Whimper''s satisfaction, instead of getting angry, Da Xuan Wang revealed a barely perceptible smile.


    "Your Majesty, the princess is also concerned about Tian Lao!" Fan Yipin interjected with a smile.


    "Yes, Father, why would Tian Lao me me? Tian Lao has already taught me a lot of geomancy. From now on, I am his disciple!" Whimper immediately said mischievously.


    As soon as Whimper finished speaking, Tian Lao, with his hoarse voice, said, "I never agreed to take you!"


    "You said that before, right?" Whimper immediately acted spoiled.


    "I said that you have the constitution for practicing geomancy, but I didn''t say I would definitely take you," Tian Lao shook his head.


    "Tian Lao, are you saying that Whimper, like Qianyou, also has the conditions to practice geomancy?" Da Xuan Wang''s eyes lit up.


    "Yes," Tian Lao said lightly.


    Upon hearing what Tian Lao said, Da Xuan Wang was pleased, but didn''t say much, just nodded.


    "What kind of great array is this? It''s so big!" Whimper looked at the distant great array with astonishment.


    Fan Yipin immediately exined, "This geomantic array is very peculiar. It doesn''t have much attacking power, but once you enter it, the sense of direction for anyone below the Emperor Realm will be disrupted."


    "This is a geomantic array, but to set up such arge geomantic array, there must have been a significant investment," Tian Lao said lightly.


    "This white mist covers sixty-four cities!" Fan Yipin exined again.


    "Sixty-four? The person arranging the cities must be a formidable geomancer. It seems this visit was not in vain!" Tian Lao sighed softly.


    "Then what is this geomantic array called?" Whimper asked as she supported Tian Lao.


    "I''m not sure. We''ll know when we see the array!" Tian Lao shook his head.


    "Isn''t the array in front of us?" Whimper asked in confusion.


    "The one who arranged the array is a master. This white mist is not the geomantic array itself; it''s just an apanying effect of the geomantic array," Tian Lao exined.


    "Tian Lao, are you saying that inside this white mist, somewhere, there is a real geomantic array?" Fan Yipin frowned and asked.


    "Yes, that''s where the real geomantic array is. This white mist is already formidable enough; once inside, no one can escape!" Tian Lao shook his head.


    "Really can''t get out?" Whimper frowned, incredulous.


    "Yes, Princess, no one has escaped from the inside so far. Once you enter, you can never leave!" Fan Yipin said to Whimper with a smile.


    "Oooooooo..."


    It seemed like a joke yed by the heavens itself. Just when Tian Lao and Fan Yipin dered it impossible, a long howl suddenly echoed from the edge of the white mist-covered world.


    "Oooooooo..."


    "Oooooooo..."


    ...The howls continued, one after another, echoing through the air. A pack of wild wolves swiftly emerged from the edge, apanied by a figure that suddenly appeared before everyone.


    Zhongshan, with a hint of excitement, looked up at the sky.


    The outside world was truly wonderful! Bright sunlight, cloudless skies! This was the real beauty of the world.


    Fan Yipin blushed, Tian Lao faltered slightly, Da Xuan Wang smiled, while Whimper stared at Fan Yipin intently.


    "Someone''se out?" Zhongshan''s appearance seemed like a p in the face to everyone. Such discontent!


    After Zhongshan emerged, he spotted arge army in the distance, but the banners bore the mark of ''Xuan''. Da Xuan Wang''s troops!


    No problem! They''re our own people!


    With a wave of his hand, Zhongshan saw Princess Qianyou, Ada, Zhihuo, A''er, Zhao Chuan, and others stepping forward. Initially, Fan Yipin thought it was just a sarcastic remark, as there are always unexpected events. But then, more people emerged. This made Fan Yipin feel inexplicably frustrated.


    As more and more people came out at Zhao Chuan''smand, so did the wolves.


    In a vast and imposing manner, nearly a million people emerged.


    It was like karma in action, leaving Fan Yipin speechless as he stepped back!


    "They''re out!" Princess Qianyou eximed with a sigh of relief.


    "Yes, General, the feeling outside is really great. Inside is like a ghost domain. During this time, the soldiers were going crazy! One of our brothers even cried for his mother in the middle of the night," Shui Wuhengughed.


    "Hahaha..."


    Theughter echoed from the troops behind.


    Instead of getting angry at Shui Wuheng''s teasing, the soldiers showed a proud and joyful expression.


    Zhongshan looked satisfiedly at Shui Wuheng. Shui Wuheng was bing more and more adept at rallying the troops.


    "Zhihuo, thanks to you, those wild wolves were allowed to leave. You are our hero, don''t let others ughter you here," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" Zhihuo immediately responded.


    "Wooooooo..."


    Zhihuo let out a loud shout, and the pack of wild wolves scattered and disappeared in an instant.


    The million-strong army headed towards Da Xuan Wang''s camp.


    "Shui Wuheng, organize the troops. When Da Xuan Wang''s people arrive, set up camp and wait!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuheng responded promptly.


    Zhongshan could already see the pce at the central camp from a distance.


    Zhongshan, Qianyou, Ada, A''er, Zhihuo, the five of them flew towards the central pce. Along the way, no one intercepted them. Obviously, orders had been given earlier not to stop Zhongshan and the others froming.


    "Zhongshan, greetings to His Majesty, and to Mr. Fan!" Zhongshannded in the square and greeted.


    Zhongshan didn''t recognize the other two people and didn''t bother with more formalities.


    "Uncle Two!" Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Tian Lao, I knew you woulde!" Princess Qianyou immediately turned to the shrunken old man and said.


    "Tian Lao?" Zhongshan turned his head to look.


    "Greetings, senior!" Zhongshan said respectfully.


    "Little guy, not bad!" Tian Lao''s voice was hoarse as he spoke.


    "Yes, it''s unexpected. The Duke of the East actually managed toe out from this formation. I admire you, Master Fan!" Fan Yipin spoke immediately.


    "Oh, it''s just luck. We captured an enemy soldier and learned the way out from him!" Zhongshan modestly replied.


    "Enemy soldier?" Da Xuan Wang raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. Inside, the Da Guang army is rampant, while our army has been scattered and trapped by chance. Now, I fear that most of the internal cities have been captured by the Da Guang Empire!" Zhongshan exined promptly.


    Taking a deep breath, Da Xuan Wang furrowed his brow slightly and then looked towards Tian Lao.


    "Tian Lao, what do you see?" Da Xuan Wang asked.


    "Don''t worry, tomorrow I will meet that Feng Shui master!" Tian Lao replied calmly.


    "Thank you for your trouble," Da Xuan Wang said.


    "I want to go too! Tian Lao, take me with you!" Yinging immediately called out, grabbing Tian Lao''s sleeve and shaking it!


    Tian Lao nced at Yinging, slightly indulgent, "Alright, stick close to me then."


    "Great! I definitely will!" Yinging eximed excitedly, while Da Xuan Wang smiled with satisfaction.


    "Qianyou, you should go too," Tian Lao turned to Princess Qianyou and said.


    "Yes!" Qianyou responded promptly.


    Tian Lao''s direct invitation to Qianyou made Yinging pout unhappily, showing clear dislike. However, Da Xuan Wang remainedposed, showing no particr reaction.


    "Elder, may I enter to observe?" Zhongshan stared at Tian Lao and asked.


    Tian Lao turned to look at Zhongshan. Through Tian Lao''s cloudy eyes, Zhongshan felt as though he was seen as a chess piece, as if everything in the world was just pieces in his game.


    "Since the little guy coulde out, there''s no harm in going back in. Tomorrow at dawn," Tian Lao said.


    "Thank you, Elder!" Zhongshan responded promptly.


    Feng Shui techniques? Zhongshan had encountered them a long time ago, a very mystical field. Feng Shui practitioners were exceedingly rare, so it was quite a treat to encounter one. Now, it was a showdown between two Feng Shui masters. Moreover, Hong Luan Fen Lian had not changed color all along, indicating he was safe. In such a major battle, how could he let it pass?


    "I''ll go prepare something. Don''t disturb me!" Tian Lao said.


    With that, Tian Lao''s figure flickered and disappeared on the spot! After soothing Zhongshan, Da Xuan Wang brought Fan Yipin into the grand hall.


    "Sister Qianyou, Yinging missed you a lot in the ancient holy city!" Yinging immediately grabbed Princess Qianyou''s arm.


    "Yinging, what are you doing here?" Princess Qianyou asked in confusion.


    "Tian Lao said I have the same constitution as you and was preparing to ept me as a disciple, so he let mee along. But, Sister Qianyou, why did you fall out with my brother?" Yinging said immediately.


    Hearing Yinging''s words, Zhongshan silently eximed that this girl was quite cunning! There was more to her words!


    "The Duke of Qi entered the ancient holy city?" Princess Qianyou looked at Zhongshan and then at Yinging.


    "Yes, that crazy woman has been chasing my brother. My brother escaped into the ancient holy city, and she tried to break in. She was pped out of the city by the Grand Preceptor andter sent many people to search but couldn''t find him. Sister Qianyou, did you have a falling out with my brother? My brother is like that; please don''t mind. In the ancient holy city, everyone knows you two are naturally a pair, starting from childhood." Yinging continued.


    "Yinging, listen carefully. There is no rtionship between me and the Duke of Qi. Don''t bring up this topic again," Princess Qianyou raised an eyebrow.


    "Oh, okay, got it. So, this is the legendary Duke of the East, Zhongshan? No wonder Sister Qianyou gave up my brother for him," Yinging stared at Zhongshan again.


    Earlier, she deliberately ignored Zhongshan, pretending not to know about the conflict between Gu Lin and Zhongshan. Now, she suddenly knew. This Yinging was indeed quite a handful.

 Chapter 348: Wheel Hall

    <h4>Chapter 348: Wheel Hall</h4>


    Ten dayster, amidst the white mist shrouding the world, an unparalleled silence permeated the air, chilling and eerie atop a mountain peak.


    Elder Tian, bent with age, leaned on his strange ck wooden cane, gazing ahead. Behind him stood three figures: Zhongshan, Qianyou, and Yingning.


    "Elder Tian, why haven''t they returned yet? This time they''ve been gone the longest," frowned Yingning.


    "Soon," Elder Tian rasped in his gravelly voice.


    "Elder Tian, could the Fengshui masters from the other side have captured them?" Princess Qianyou furrowed her brow.


    "No, I can still sense them. They are about to return," Elder Tian reassured.


    As Elder Tian finished speaking, a gentle breeze suddenly swept before them, as if carried from a distance. This breeze was icy cold, a harbinger of ominous winds.


    After the eerie gust, a red-robed boy appeared before them. His face was pale, devoid of hair, barefoot, kneeling reverently before Elder Tian. His form seemed ethereal, almost insubstantial.


    "Master!" the red-robed boy bowed.


    Just as the first boy knelt, four more identical figures materialized from the four corners, each d in red robes.


    "Master!" they all chorused in unison.


    "Five Ghost Boys, have you found out?" Elder Tian asked calmly.


    "We have found it, Master. There is a ghost city in the northwest, likely the one Master seeks," one of the red-robed boys replied.


    "Oh? Howrge is this ghost city?" Elder Tian inquired.


    "It''s vast, filled with malevolent ghosts and countless zombies. Even the junior ghosts dare not trespass," the boy described.


    "Very well, lead the way," Elder Tian ordered.


    With a flick of Elder Tian''s hand, the other four ghost boys leaped onto his palm, shrinking to miniature size. He closed his hand around them and tucked them into his sleeve.


    Zhongshan watched silently, without interruption.


    Guided by the ghost boys, they set off towards the distance.


    As they flew, the ghost boys suddenly halted in their tracks, causing everyone else to stop too.


    Elder Tiannded on a mountain peak. Before them appeared an obstruction: a gigantic ck moth. No, it wasn''t just a moth��it was Prince Hanjue, enveloped in a massive phantom of a ck moth. Around the moth''s body, from all directions, swarmed countless moths, endlessly pping their wings, creating a cacophony of fluttering.


    Upon seeing the moths, the ghost boys shuddered in fear.


    "Princess Qianyou, Lord Dongfang, long time no see," Prince Hanjue remarked indifferently.


    "Greetings, Prince Hanjue. We wonder how you knew we woulde, and why you''re blocking our path now," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Elders spoke of little ghostsing to attack. I was tasked to guard this ce. Please turn back," Prince Hanjue replied calmly.


    "The Heart of the Ghostly Empress? Little one, are you speaking to me?" Elder Tian spoke calmly.


    Seeing Elder Tian speak, Prince Hanjue raised an eyebrow. He could discern that among the four, this hunched old man held the highest position, perhaps even higher than a princess of the Heavenly Court.


    "I don''t care who you are. Right now..." Prince Hanjue started to say.


    However, before Prince Hanjue could finish his sentence, Elder Tian acted. He gripped his cane and lightly tapped in Prince Hanjue''s direction.


    A ripple passed through the air, and the tip of the cane glowed green.


    <i>Puff~~~~~~~~</i>


    Prince Hanjue spurted a mouthful of blood, clutching his chest as he stared incredulously at Elder Tian. The immense phantom of the giant ck moth behind him abruptly vanished, and the countless moths swarming around dispersed in all directions.


    "You, you''ve ruined my Ghostly Empress?" Prince Hanjue''s face contorted in terror.


    "This was just a small warning. Go tell that Fengshui master that I''m about to break through his formation!" Elder Tian dered with unwavering confidence.


    Clutching his chest, Prince Hanjue wasted no time. He swiftly retreated in the opposite direction, and the previously endless swarm of moths also scattered.


    "Elder Tian, why did you let him go?" Yingning asked.


    "In some ces, the paths of ghosts and humans diverge. These little ghosts led us here, but they might not be able to lead us to the Ghost City," Elder Tian replied calmly, his gaze fixed on the distance. Even amidst the endless white mist, Elder Tian seemed to have limitless vision.


    "Let''s go!" Elder Tianmanded.


    He then retrieved the ghost boys with a flick of his hand, and the four of them flew off into the distance together.


    Theynded on a vast in. Elder Tian suddenly stopped and the others followed suit.


    Elder Tian surveyed the expansive in, his brows furrowed slightly, but his eyes betrayed a sense of anticipation.


    "Follow in my footsteps!" Elder Tian instructed.


    With Elder Tian in the lead, the three followed closely behind, stepping exactly where he had tread. Upon the 108th step, Zhongshan felt a sudden change in the surroundings. The previously eerie atmosphere within the white mist suddenly cleared up, dissipating entirely. Above them, a massive full moon hung in the sky.


    "Hoo~~~ Hoo~~~ Hoo~~~ Hoo~~~"


    Suddenly, countless zombies and evil spirits appeared on the ground, blindly wandering in all directions. It was a terrifying sight.


    Seeing these evil spirits and zombies, Zhongshan couldn''t help but recall the scene from their encounter with the Zombie Emperor''s Fengshui formationst time��countless zombies and evil spirits endlessly marching.


    The original in had already transformed beyond recognition. Sinister buildings gathered in the distance, even on some tall mountains, massive structures loomed. There was no mist here, only a dark aura��ominous and ghostly.


    Zhongshan knew��they had entered a grand formation.


    Countless ghostly auras obscured the numerous colossal structures in the distance, making their interiors indiscernible, though the generalyout was still vaguely visible.


    "Wheel Hall? Wheel King?" Elder Tian suddenly eximed.


    Elder Tian recognized this grand formation?


    As if sensing the vitality emanating from the group, some evil spirits and zombies in the distance slowly advanced towards them. With bared teeth and wing hands, they seemed intent on devouring the four.


    Zhongshan swiftly drew hisrge sword, his eyes coldly fixed on the approaching evil spirits and zombies.


    A zombie came close.


    He swung his sword.


    "Dang~~~~~~~~"


    Under the immense force of his strike, the zombie merely staggered.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~"


    Zhongshan swung his sword again with all his might, finally annihting the zombie.


    An evil spirit lunged at him, but Zhongshan''s strike seemed to pass through its illusionary form, hitting nothing.


    Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed, and he quickly retreated. Elder Tian pointed his cane, causing the evil spirit to dissipate instantly.


    "On the de, smear your essence blood," Tian Lao instructed.


    "Mm!" Zhong Shan nodded immediately. He squeezed out a bit of essence blood and swiftly coated it onto the de.


    Facing another zombie charging at him, Zhong Shan struck with his de.


    "Swish~~~"


    As therge de made contact with the zombie''s body, it seemed as if boiling oil erupted, emitting a vast amount of heat. The zombie was destroyed with this seemingly gentle strike. When the de cut through an evil spirit, it dispersed as if scorched by the intense heat from the blood.


    Tian Lao paid no attention to these evil spirits and zombies but instead stared at the vast architecturalplex before him, his heart filled with uncertainty and awe. The peripheral threats of zombies and evil spirits were more than manageable for Zhong Shan alone.


    The atmosphere was thick with tension. From a distance, a gigantic ghost, the Ghost King, approached��a hundred zhang tall. Just like the Zombie Emperor''s tomb, this Ghost King was simrly aged, wearing only an upper garment and a giant wolf tooth club in hand, exuding a fierce aura as he charged forward.


    No, not just simr��almost identical to the Ghost King from Zhong Shan''s memories.


    As the Ghost King charged ferociously, he suddenly locked eyes on Princess Qianyou.


    "It''s you again?" The Ghost King''s words were shocking.


    "It''s you again?" Hearing the Ghost King''s voice, Zhong Shan''s hair stood on end. He had faced ghosts and zombies without much concern, but the key was the Ghost King''s words: "It''s you again?" Did he know Princess Qianyou?


    Simrly, Princess Qianyou tensed, stepping back.


    "Oh, you know him?" Tian Lao asked in confusion.


    "That Grand Qin Zombie Emperor''s tomb, it''s him? How can this be? Wasn''t that an illusion?" Princess Qianyou eximed in astonishment.


    "Oh? That was the celestial cataclysm cave? Where was he then?" Tian Lao asked in a deep voice.


    "At Fengdu," Princess Qianyou replied.


    "Fengdu? Heh, it seems he was transferred to the Wheel Hall," Tian Lao chuckled lightly.


    "Tian Lao, how is that possible? How could he possibly recognize me? Isn''t this an illusion? Back then, when the Ghost King broke through the Feng Shui array with the Fengdu Ghost City, everything exploded," Princess Qianyou said with worry.


    Jingling also frowned at Tian Lao.


    "Illusion? Who said it''s an illusion? This is called the ''Derivative Realm.'' What you sawst time was him," Tian Lao exined.


    As the Ghost King charged, Tian Lao turned to look at him.


    Upon meeting Tian Lao''s gaze, the Ghost King seemed to tremble in spirit, freezing in ce with a panicked expression before turning and running back.


    "But these are two different Feng Shui arrays," Princess Qianyou said, puzzled.


    "They are indeed two different Feng Shui arrays, but both are ''Derivative Realms,'' advanced formations in Feng Shui that use a single object as a basis to simte the environment and inhabitants surrounding that object from another time, even linking to their dream states," Tian Lao calmly rified.


    "Tian Lao, are you saying that this Wheel Hall and the Fengdu Ghost City from back then are simtions, and the Ghost King is the actual one from the Wheel Hall, currently dreaming, appearing in this simted Derivative Realm?" Princess Qianyou frowned in amazement.


    "Exactly!" Tian Lao nodded. Princess Qianyou''s quick understanding pleased him greatly.


    "Elder, are you saying there truly exists a Fengdu Ghost City and this so-called Wheel Hall in the underworld?" Zhong Shan stared at Tian Lao in astonishment.


    "They don''t exist in this world, but they do in the underworld!" Tian Lao affirmed confidently.

 Chapter 349: The Yin and Yang Realms

    <h4>Chapter 349: The Yin and Yang Realms</h4>


    "Underworld?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow but didn''t press further.


    ncing sideways at Zhong Shan, Tian Lao spoke casually, "Ancient Xuan says you have strong leadership abilities?"


    "The lord overestimates me!" Zhong Shan hesitated slightly, then replied.


    "In that case, you will lead the troops of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty to battle against the corpse soldiers and ghost soldiers of the Wheel Hall," Tian Lao continued nonchntly.


    "Uh, Elder, I don''t quite understand," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "This is the Shadow Pce''s Wheel Hall. The Feng Shui Master over there is quite adept, able tomunicate between the Yin and Yang realms, and thus derive this simted Wheel Hall. To break such a Feng Shui formation, you must use formations to break formations!" Tian Lao exined.


    "Use formations to break formations?" Jingling asked in confusion.


    "Yes, you two girls pay attention. How much you can learn depends on yourprehension," Tian Lao said solemnly.


    "Yes!" Both girls replied promptly.


    Jingling nced at Qianyou because from Tian Lao''s tone, it was clear he would choose his disciple based on theirprehension. This observation would also be used to assess the two girls in the future.


    Tian Lao then looked towards the Wheel Hall shrouded in ghostly aura in the distance, narrowing his eyes. With a light step forward...


    "Bang~~~~~~"


    Ripples spread across the ground. Evil spirits and zombies within a hundred meters dispersed as if turning into smoke, vanishingpletely.


    With a flip of his hand, Tian Lao produced a tpass. On its surface, numerous concentric circles slowly rotated, emitting a strange aura.


    As he rxed his grip, thepass fell to the ground. The moment it touched the ground, it sank into the earth and disappeared without a trace.


    Simultaneously, infinite golden light sprayed out from under everyone''s feet, growing more intense by the moment. In just a short while, the ground beneath turned golden yellow.


    Upon this golden ground, numerous evil spirits and zombies wailed in agony. They then dissolved into smoke and dissipatedpletely.


    As thepass sank underground, Tian Lao put away his cane, his expression serious. Gradually straightening his body, he moved with an incredibly flexible and rhythmic step, his hands spinning ording to a certain pattern.


    "Rumble~~~~~~"


    From behind the group suddenly came a dragon''s roar, and a gigantic golden dragon shadow rushed forth, not just from behind but from all directions.


    Unbeknownst to them, countless mountains and rivers suddenly appeared on this goldennd. Among thesendscapes, gigantic aura dragons soared through the skies, heading straight for where Tian Lao stood.


    Aura dragons?


    There were nine golden aura dragons, each with a domineering momentum rushing fiercely toward Tian Lao. At this moment, Tian Lao stood upright, his expression profoundly solemn. As he raised his hands, a brilliant golden Tian crown suddenly appeared!


    Tian Lao held the Tian crown in his hands and slowly ced it upon his head. As the crown settled on his head, the nine aura dragons crazily surged into Tian Lao''s body.


    "Is that the Emperor''s Tian crown?" Jingling eximed in surprise.


    "In the Celestial Dynasty, only Tian Lao is qualified to wield the Emperor''s belongings," Princess Qianyou sighed.


    As the Tian crown was slowly ced on Tian Lao''s head, all nine golden dragons plunged into his body.


    Just then, from an unknown source, the Sun rose slowly into the sky.


    Tian Lao''s temperament seemed to undergo a tremendous change. His previous air of mystery and eeriness suddenly transformed into an aura of vastness and dominance! A presence that only absolute rulers possessed��a regal aura?


    After Haoyue ascended into the sky, the surroundings underwent a sudden transformation. Countless mountains and rivers emerged, floating inds shot up into the sky. Tian Lao''s figure had already vanished before the three.


    "Is this... the Ancient Sacred Capital?" Jingling eximed in astonishment.


    The Ancient Sacred Capital?


    Zhong Shan looked closely and saw that the surroundings had drastically changed. To the north, under the light of a bright moon, corpses and ghosts roamed freely, and the numerous pces of the Wheel Hall remained, eerie and filled with ghostly aura. In the south where Zhong Shan stood, under the radiant sun of Haoyue, the aura surged and shrouded a vast and magnificent sacred city. The Ancient Sacred Capital?


    Everything around them resembled the Ancient Sacred Capital in every way��grand buildings, vast expanses, onlycking the diverse popce of the Ancient Sacred Capital.


    "The Ancient Sacred Capital, I am the Ancient Divine Messenger!" From the direction of the imperial pce, Tian Lao''smanding voice suddenly echoed.


    "The Wheel King of the Shadow Pce, I am the Wheel King!" Another Feng Shui Master''s voice came from the northern pces. It had a slightly hoarse quality.


    The two Feng Shui Masters were finally conversing!


    "Ancient Divine Messenger? The name of the Emperor of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty. Tian Lao has created this Derivative Realm, simting the environment of the Ancient Sacred Capital, and himself portraying the Emperor of the Ancient Sacred Capital," Jingling noted.


    "The Wheel King of the Ten Yamas? The Wheel Hall, located outside the gloomy Stone, facing directly east towards the world''s Five Polluted ces, with six bridges made of gold, silver, jade, stone, wood, and earth, specifically for managing the spirits of each hall. Are you iming to be the Wheel King? Quite an ambitious im!" Tian Lao''s voice resonated from the imperial pce, spreading in all directions, its authority overwhelming.


    "Whether it''s ambitious or not, you''ll find out soon enough!" The opposing Feng Shui Master''s voice was equally hoarse.


    Zhong Shan took careful note of the dialogue between the two Feng Shui Masters. Tian Lao seemed to be exining the Wheel Hall specifically for himself and the two girls to hear.


    "Wheel Hall, how much can you derive?" Tian Lao chuckled lightly.


    "Hanjue, Imand you to lead all the corpse soldiers within the Wheel Hall. Guihuang, Imand you to lead all the ghost soldiers within the Wheel Hall. Erode the Ancient Sacred Capital, contend for the vast aura!" Suddenly, the opposing Feng Shui Master gave hismand.


    "Yes!" Two voices responded promptly from the other side��one was Prince Hanjue, and the other was the former Ghost King.


    The previously chaotic area of corpses and ghosts retreated towards the direction of the Wheel Hall, towards the area illuminated by moonlight.


    "Zhong Shan, I appoint you as the Supreme Commander of the Ancient Sacred Capital, leading all the armies of the Ancient Sacred Capital. Erode the Shadow Pce''s Wheel Hall, contend for the vast aura!" Tian Lao''s hoarse voice echoed.


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan responded immediately.


    In that instant of Zhong Shan''s response, he was suddenly d in a golden suit of armor. Fully armed, behind him stood an orderly array of approximately ten million golden-armored soldiers. Their ranks stretched endlessly, beyond sight.


    As for why Zhong Shan knew there were exactly ten million golden-armored soldiers, even Zhong Shan himself wasn''t sure. It was as if he suddenly knew upon donning the golden armor. Moreover, he could swiftlymand these ten million soldiers with his thoughts.


    Zhong Shan''s position shifted to the ins, the center of the two Derivative Realms, standing on the side of the Derivative Realm "Ancient Sacred Capital," facing off against the two opposing armies.


    To the east were all zombies, neatly arranged, with Prince Hanjue ring hatefully at Zhong Shan''s side from the front lines.


    To the west stood all the former evil spirits, standing in order behind the former Ghost King.


    Zhong Shan felt a slight cold sweat on his forehead. Was Tian Lao not nning to fight strategically? By cing himself on a in and directly confronting the enemy, what role would Zhong Shan, as amander, y? Warfare involved deception; at the very least, he should have manipted the terrain, such as using mountains and other features, to divide and conquer the enemy, then annihte them. But what was happening now? Was it just about outnumbering the opponent?


    Fortunately, the Feng Shui Master on the opposite side was also inexperienced in the field of war. Otherwise, they could have used advantageous terrain features, putting Zhong Shan at a disadvantage.


    Princess Qianyou and Yingning had been transferred elsewhere. Princess Qianyou looked worriedly at Zhong Shan.


    "Qianyou sister, Zhong Shan might be in trouble this time. We have only half the numbers of the enemy zombies, and dealing with zombies won''t work against evil spirits, and vice versa. Do you think if he dies in battle, he will really die?" Yingning looked mischievously at Princess Qianyou.


    In the past, Princess Qianyou would have been very calm and would have ignored such disturbing remarks. However, now that Zhong Shan was involved, she felt a slight panic and clenched her hands tightly. Her eyes stared fixedly at Zhong Shan, silently praying that he would be safe.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou''s expression, Yingning smiled satisfactorily. Her attention shifted back to Zhong Shan. She was confident that in Tian Lao''s assessment, she would ultimately prevail. Moreover, if Zhong Shan really died, Princess Qianyou would return to her brother''s embrace.


    "Hanjue, your sess or failure will determine the fate of the Great Emperor''s Dynasty!" The voice of the Feng Shui Master from the Wheel Hall echoed from afar.


    "Yes, Senior, I will do my best!" Prince Hanjue responded promptly.


    "Zhong Shan, if you fail, you will truly die!" Tian Lao''s voice came faintly.


    Upon hearing Tian Lao''s words, Zhong Shan cursed inwardly. It seemed Tian Lao wasn''t a pleasant character either!


    But the battle was beginning, and there was no room for distraction.


    "Kill~~~" Prince Hanjue shouted loudly.


    "Kill~~~" Guihuang also roared.


    Across from them, ten million zombies and ten million evil spirits rushed swiftly toward Zhong Shan''s army.


    In the center of the battlefield, the dividing line between moonlight and sunlight shifted toward Zhong Shan''s direction. On either side, corresponded the gloomy environment of the Shadow Pce''s Wheel Hall and the radiant environment of the Ancient Sacred Capital. It was as if this line separated the realms of Yin and Yang.


    As the zombie and evil spirit armies approached, that dividing line also shifted toward Zhong Shan''s direction. Along the edges, eerie mountains and pces emerged from the ground, while the countless buildings, mountains, and rivers of the Ancient Sacred Capital quickly crumbled and vanished. Subsequently, that area was rapidly reced by the gloomy environment, as if two different worlds werepeting for dominion over this space.


    Two armies faced off, each led by their respectivemanders!


    Zhong Shan remained calm. Though it wasn''t a forest where he could hide, he was still exceptionally steady. The biggest advantage of this ten million-strong army over his previous forces was that he could control them as he wished! Everything was born from his heart!


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan watched the approaching double-sized enemy army in the distance and gently waved his hand, saying, "Deploy the formation, Eight Gates Golden Lock~~~!"

 Chapter 350: Fateful Obscurity

    <h4>Chapter 350: Fateful Obscurity</h4>


    "Battalion, Eight-Gate Golden Lock Formation~~~~~~~!"


    With Zhongshan''s boomingmand, millions of soldiers roared in unison!


    "Roar~~~~~~~!"


    The sound was deafening as millions of soldiers swiftly moved into position across various locations. Zhongshan remained steadfast, eyes locked ahead, his golden armor dazzling brightly, cape fluttering gently behind him.


    In an instant, the military formation was set, the Eight-Gate Golden Locks exuding boundless momentum that surged into the sky. Just this disy alone vastly augmented the might of the Ancient Holy Capital.


    At the division line between Yin and Yang realms, as the Eight-Gate Golden Locks array was established, numerous eerie mountains and pces swiftly crumbled and shattered towards the direction of the Wheel Hall. Mountains and pces of the Ancient Holy Capital rose abruptly, with some floating inds soaring into the sky.


    "Attack~~~~~~~~!" Hanxue and Guihuang simultaneously roared.


    Zombie soldiers and ghost soldiers hastened their pace, crazily charging towards Zhongshan. It seemed the sh was imminent.


    "Eight-Gate Golden Locks, form the array~~~~~~~~!" Zhongshan beckoned with a finger pointed skyward.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~!"


    Centered around Zhongshan, a whirlwind suddenly whipped up at the site of the military formation. A spiraling tempest engulfed endless yellow sand, blurring everything in sight inside and out.


    In the center of the battlefield, a sandstorm-like sphere suddenly appeared. This monstrous spherical sandstorm continued its frenzied spin, lifting all vegetation and stones from the ground into the air. Boulders flew upwards, lost momentum, and crashed back down like a meteor shower, bombarding the ground below.


    "The Great Lita Dynasty''s Eight-Gate Golden Lock Formation?" Yinning suddenly eximed in astonishment.


    Seeing the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation, Princess Qianyou smiled contentedly. Since Zhongshan had mastered the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation, there was no need for Princess Qianyou to worry too much.


    In ancient times, when Taixu mastered the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation alone, he trapped numerous formidable foes. Now, even though Zhongshan did not possess the Formation Spirit (which was given to Yinn), with millions of troops under hismand, even if Zhongshan''s grasp of the formation was only eighty percentplete, sheer numberspensated for any shorings.


    The heart of the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation, with Zhongshan at its core.


    The zombie army and ghost army finally approached, engaging in battle. However, their opponent had transformed into a colossal battle formation.


    Eight-Gate Golden Locks!


    Seeing the grand formation, the zombie soldiers and ghost soldiers hesitated slightly,ing to a halt. But while they paused, Zhongshan did not. The key difference between a battle formation and a static formation was mobility, and now it was Zhongshan''s turn to charge forward.


    A tornado of sand and storm, devouring the zombie soldiers and ghost soldiers. The raging winds roared with thunderous booms, iparably imposing. Wherever they passed, cracks riddled the earth, veins spreading. Devour, devour, devour!


    The primary objective of the grand formation was to devour.


    The Eight-Gate Formation crazily absorbed enemy zombie and ghost soldiers.


    Zombie soldiers? Ghost soldiers?


    Within the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation, there were also dead soldiers and ghost soldiers, countless and boundless. On a in created by the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation, countless soldiersmanded zombies and engaged in fiercebat against enemy zombies.


    Within the Gate of Life, vitality flourished abundantly, lush and verdant like a rainforest of towering mountains and grand trees. The vitality surged relentlessly, suppressing the deathly aura of the zombies and evil spirits, and numerous grass soldiers, equal in strength to ghost soldiers, resulted in a massive defeat of zombie soldiers and ghost soldiers.


    The other gates were simrly effective: some unleashed terrifying thunderstorms, torrents of lightning cascading down; others conjured boundless astral winds that extinguished spirits; some became quagmires swallowing zombie and ghost soldiers; and others summoned meteorites that rained down madly.


    The Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation resembled an insatiable whirlpool within the Eight Extremes Heaven''s Tail, crazily devouring zombie soldiers and ghost soldiers; once they entered, they immediately vanished.


    The battlefield was immense and the number of soldiers terrifyingly vast, chaotic beyond measure. However, after the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation was activated, everything became clear��its might was overwhelming.


    The entire battlefield resembled a vast pond, with zombie soldiers and ghost soldiers like floating duckweed on the water''s surface. The Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation, on the other hand, was like a whirlpool in the center of theke, swiftly rotating and pulling in vast amounts of duckweed from the surface, shredding them within its vortex.


    The Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation achieved a resounding victory!


    On the battlefield, Prince Hanxue and Guihuang continually retreated, step by step.


    The Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation relentlessly chased after the ghost soldiers and zombie soldiers, pressing the attack.


    Meanwhile, in the Yang realm, the territory of the Ancient Holy Capital expanded frenziedly, continuously pressing forward and suppressing the territory of the Wheel Hall in the Yin realm, causing it to shrink incessantly.


    The sky over the Ancient Holy Capital churned with golden qi, exuberant and lively.


    Inside the imperial pce...


    "Sixty-four hanging and sixty-four cities in the mist, are you just going to let it go like this?" The voice of Tian Lao, imitating the ancient divine skill, resounded once more.


    At that moment, Zhongshan''s Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation suddenly split into two, unexpectedly forming two massive sandstorms that rolled towards two different directions.


    Almost simultaneously, amidst the astonishment of Hanxue and Guihuang, one human and one ghost were trapped within each sandstorm.


    And the two gigantic sandstorms swiftly converged again, merging into one colossal sandstorm sphere.


    The twomanders entered the sandstorm sphere, and outside, zombie soldiers and ghost soldiers madly rushed in. More and more flooded inside, gradually causing it to be congested.


    For a moment, countless zombies and ghosts entered, forming various small groups that could resist swiftly.


    But resistance was futile; it was only a matter of time before death in Zhongshan''s domain.


    Guihuang and Prince Hanxuemanded their respective subordinates in different locations, fiercely resisting.


    The battlefield grew exceedingly eerie.


    In just a short while, all zombie soldiers and ghost soldiers had entered the sandstorm sphere. The massive Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation sat at the center of the battlefield, where within it, des shed and blood flowed amidst flying sand and rolling stones, with both armies fiercely battling.


    Even within Zhongshan''s army, there were casualties, causing the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation to continuously shrink. As the sandstorm diminished, the enemy''s losses of zombies and ghosts were even greater.


    From the division line between Yin and Yang realms, one could tell that they were continually pushing towards the direction of the Wheel Hall.


    The Ancient Holy Capital frenziedly contested for the space around the Wheel Hall.


    "If you want to see, then see!" From afar, within the ghostly shrouded Wheel Hall, another Feng Shui master''s voice suddenly sounded.


    Subsequently, centered around the Wheel Hall, a circle suddenly appeared on the earth''s surface, resembling an infinitelyrgepass. With the Wheel Hall as the celestial pool, this circle was one of its ring wheels.


    The ring wheel rotated clockwise, slowly spinning. On the earth''s surface, mountains and pces within that ring wheel were slowly revolving around the central Wheel Hall.


    At the same time, a hazy gray environment slowly approached from the east.


    The hazy gray environment resembled a massive sphere, somewhat akin to the sandstorm environment of the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation. The hazy gray environment drew closer and closer, seeming poised for a super collision with the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation.


    Zhongshan saw the hazy gray environment in the distance and immediately grew alert.


    "Mingzhuo? You can actually induce Mingzhuo?" Tian Lao''s astonished voice suddenly rang out.


    "The Wheel Hall is located outside the Netherworld''s fertile stone, directly east of the Five Impurities of the World''s End, Mingzhuo! As the King of the Wheel, I naturally can induce it. Impressive Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation!" The voice of the Feng Shui master from afar echoed within the Wheel Hall.


    "Fateful Obscurity?" Zhongshan''s eyebrows raised.


    Collide the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation with this so-called ''Mingzhuo''?


    Zhongshan wasn''t foolish enough for such curiosity to ce himself in danger. This war had nothing to do with him fundamentally. Using the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation earlier was solely to confidently deal with the zombie soldiers and ghost soldiers, securing an invincible position for himself.


    Now, facing an unknown Mingzhuo, would Zhongshan endanger himself out of curiosity?


    He stabilized the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation in a fixed pattern and issued some follow-upmands. Zhongshan''s figure abruptly darted towards the outside.


    He dashed out of the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation and swiftly retreated into the distance.


    With Zhongshan no longermanding, the grand formation could only hold out for the time it took an incense stick to burn. But Zhongshan paid no heed. He had already seen its terrifying nature.


    Far away, the division line between Yin and Yang realms unexpectedly halted its advance due to the arrival of Mingzhuo, then began retreating towards the Ancient Holy Capital, rapidly approaching it.


    In just ten breaths of time, Zhongshan and Mingzhuo collided.


    There was no deafening roar; instead, there was only eptance. Mingzhuo seemed like a world unto itself, madly enveloping everything within.


    "Ahhh~~~~~~~~!"


    "Ahhh~~~~~~~~!"


    ... Zhongshan heard the agonizing cries of his soldiers. Clearly, this Mingzhuo was overwhelmingly powerful.


    The Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation suddenly copsed, revealing an endless army within. The Golden Armored Army of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty, upon contact with Mingzhuo, instantly turned to dust. Zhongshan even saw Prince Hanxue.


    A look of terror suddenly appeared on Prince Hanxue''s face. His hair abruptly turned white, wrinkles creased his face, aging him rapidly, rendering him utterly powerless to resist.


    A powerhouse in the Emperor Realm, Prince Hanxue, was slowly, slowly dying of old age! In the Emperor Realm, life expectancy was 2400 years! Yet he was aging to death in Mingzhuo? Prince Hanxue was utterly powerless to resist. Did Mingzhuo devour life expectancy?


    It was too terrifying! The vast army of the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation waspletely decimated. While the enemy''s ghost soldiers and zombie soldiers were unscathed, the baptism of the Eight-Gate Golden Locks Formation had reduced their numbers to no more than three million.


    The division line between Yin and Yang realms was aggressively shifting towards the Ancient Holy Capital. Everything in the Yang realm was rapidly copsing, while the territory of the Yin realm expanded frantically.


    Zhongshan continued fleeing incessantly. He had no courage left to charge forward. His karmic burdens were already heavy, and being corroded by Mingzhuo would mean certain death.


    "The Grand Luo Heavenly Star Formation~~~~~~~~!" Suddenly, Tian Lao''s voice echoed within the imperial pce.

 Chapter 351: The Reincarnation Passage

    <h4>Chapter 351: The Reincarnation Passage</h4>


    "The Great Luo Heavenly Star Array~~~!"


    Within the imperial pce, Old Master Tian suddenly roared.


    Defeat was imminent. This must not continue. As the murky forces of fate surged, the boundary between the two realms began to rapidly push toward the ancient Holy City.


    The world of the Yang Realm was in continuous copse. Floating inds crumbled, mountains and rivers shattered, and the entire world was turning into a smoky haze, being reced by the Yin Realm. If this development continued, the ancient Holy City of the Yang Realm wouldpletely copse, and with it, Old Master Tian would also fall.


    The Great Luo Heavenly Star Array. This was a supreme ancient magical formation created by the sacred beings of the Great Luo Dynasty. Could it be that Old Master Tian had mastered it too?


    Zhong Shan, while retreating, watched intently.


    As Old Master Tian''s voice echoed, the many floating inds surrounding the imperial pce suddenly lit up with a brilliant green glow.


    Three hundred and sixty-one inds, symbolizing the number of the heavenly cycle, just like the acupuncture points on a human body. These inds began to rotate along mysterious trajectories, each emitting a column of light that shot up into the sky.


    In an instant, around the sun in the sky, three hundred and sixty-one small suns appeared. No, they were stars.


    Were they invoking the power of the stars from the nine heavens?


    In the meantime, Zhong Shan had flown to Princess Qianyou''s side.


    Seeing Zhong Shan return safely, Princess Qianyou smiled with satisfaction and looked up at the sky. Only Ying Ning''s eyes darted around, but only for a brief moment before she too gazed upward.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Three hundred and sixty-one stars suddenly erupted, pouring down endless starlight into the ancient Holy City.


    The starlight was not as dense as sunlight but fell like raindrops. However, the starlight did not reach the ground; instead, it mysteriously formed countless nodes in mid-air. These nodes were densely packed, each resembling a small star, filling the sky. The nodes were connected by green beams of light.


    The endless nodes connected like a web��awork of starlight covering the entire ancient Holy City and expanding outward with incredible speed.


    Old Master Tian was presiding over this from the pce!


    The Great Luo Heavenly Star Array?


    As the web-likework continued to expand, it reached the battlefield.


    The dividing line between the Yin and Yang realms suddenly stopped advancing toward the ancient Holy City and instead began to retreat, moving toward the You Residence''s Wheel Hall.


    The power bnce between the Yin and Yang realms had shifted once again.


    The web-likework finally reached the zone of the fate murkiness.


    Countless corpse soldiers and ghost soldiers charged at the web-likework.


    But as soon as they were engulfed by thework, they instantly froze, maintaining their running postures as if time itself had stopped.


    Then:


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Three million corpse soldiers and ghost soldiers exploded, turning into a cloud of smoke andpletely vanishing. Just like how the fate murkiness had dealt with the golden-armored soldiers earlier, it was equally ruthless and all-epassing.


    Finally, the web-likework touched the fate murkiness itself.


    "Sizzle~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    At the point of contact, a harsh, ear-piercing noise erupted as the two formidable forces shed violently. The sheer power was overwhelming. The very space around them trembled and quaked.


    Zhong Shan observed the area where the web-like world and the murky fate met. The space there twisted and distorted,pressing into what seemed like tiny ck holes that flickered and vanished almost instantly.


    The power was immense. These two forces were overwhelmingly strong!


    "Derivative worlds ultimately exist in the realm of light. If this were the realm of darkness, your murky fate would have triumphed. But here, in the light realm, ha!" Old Master Tian''s voice echoed with excitement from within the imperial pce.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The murky fate suddenly disintegrated, transforming into a cloud of ck smoke that dissipated entirely.


    Could it be that the opposing geomancer had lost?


    With the destruction of the murky fate, the web-like world expanded furiously toward the Wheel Hall, signifying that the light realm was encroaching upon the dark realm. The dark realm''s environment shattered, giving way to the creation of the light realm.


    Such power! The Great Luo Heavenly Star Array?


    A powerful current of energy could be seen rushing toward the distance.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The dark world had not yet fully copsed, but the fierce current had already destroyed countless buildings, toppled numerous mountains, and scattered the boundless ghostly aura.


    It rushed all the way to the very heart of it all.


    A colossal pce, towering nearly a thousand meters high.


    Thergest pce!


    The You Residence''s Wheel Hall!


    The You Residence''s Wheel Hall finally unveiled itself as the ghostly aura dissipated, revealing its grandeur.


    The immense pce exuded an overwhelming sense of dominance. Even from a great distance, just one nce filled Zhong Shan with a sense of awe and reverence. This was despite Zhong Shan''s steadfast will.


    The You Residence''s Wheel Hall was overwhelmingly powerful. Its mere form was breathtaking.


    Had they lost? Not yet. The fierce wind halted abruptly before the You Residence''s Wheel Hall.


    On the square in front of the You Residence''s Wheel Hall, a ck-robed figure appeared.


    That must be the opponent''s geomancer!


    "You Residence''s Wheel Hall, I am the Wheel King!" The geomancer spoke with a calm confidence.


    "Ha ha ha, Wheel King? And what can you do?" Old Master Tianughed loudly.


    "Wheel King, the one who turns the wheel of yin and yang, the cycle of reincarnation," the geomancer said indifferently. He then extended his hands from within his ck robe, making a circr gesture. As he gently pulled, a blue sphere appeared in his palm, like a drop of liquid. He lightly dropped it to the ground.


    "Blop~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    It really did look like a drop of water falling into water.


    The ground beneath his feet suddenly rippled with waves, which then turned blue in an instant, expanding outward in concentric circles like a whirlpool.


    The blue whirlpool spread, extending in all directions, expanding toward the encroaching light realm.


    It was like a small stone dropped into a pond, with ripples spreading outward.


    Heading southward.


    The ground in the dark world gradually turned entirely blue, a strange blue. The boundary between the light and dark realms stopped advancing and started moving southward again, heading toward the ancient Holy City.


    The web-like world continued to expand, but the boundary between the yin and yang realms was still moving toward the ancient Holy City.


    "What''s happening? What is going on?"


    The edge of the web-like world came into contact with the blue, rippling ground.


    "Whoom"


    With a muffled sound, the edge of the web-like world disappearedpletely wherever it touched the blue ground. It was all gone.


    "Reincarnation? The Reincarnation Passage, you''ve opened the Reincarnation Passage? No~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Old Master Tian eximed in shock.


    "Nothing is impossible, only something you can''t achieve!" the distant geomancer replied.


    "What did you obtain? What artifact of the Wheel King did you get? How could you even open the Reincarnation Passage? It''s impossible, impossible!" Old Master Tian shouted in disbelief.


    "The fact is just as you see it!" the distant geomancer replied.


    "This is the Heavenly Wood Staff. By standing on it, you can pass through the Great Luo Heavenly Star Array and stop him from continuing his ritual. Otherwise, you three are all doomed, except for me!" Old Master Tian''s voice suddenly came.


    In front of the three of them, the staff that Old Master Tian always leaned on suddenly appeared.


    The three of them stood on the peak of a mountain, looking at the Heavenly Wood Staff before them.


    "The Heavenly Wood Staff can only carry one person," Princess Qianyou frowned and said.


    "Hurry up and go!" Yingning suddenly pushed Zhong Shan.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Caught off guard, Zhong Shan was pushed onto the staff. He turned his head, his face filled with anger as he looked at Yingning, but the Heavenly Wood Staff had already taken Zhong Shan far away.


    "Yingning, what are you doing?" Princess Qianyou shouted angrily.


    "Didn''t you say it can only carry one person?" Yingning immediately feigned an aggrieved look.


    "But I didn''t say it had to be Zhong Shan!" Princess Qianyou said angrily.


    "Well, he''s already gone, and there''s nothing I can do about it!" Yingning said pitifully.


    "Hmph!" Princess Qianyou snorted coldly and then looked anxiously in the direction Zhong Shan had gone.


    Seeing Zhong Shan fly off into the distance, Yingning quickly gave a sly smile.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath. Truth be told, he had intended to go himself. ording to Old Master Tian, if they didn''t go, all three of them would die. With Yingning''s nature, she definitely wouldn''t go; she''d hide until thest moment. That left himself and Princess Qianyou. Should Princess Qianyou go? It would be fine if she seeded, but if she failed, wouldn''t the Heavenly Wood Staff return to bring him back? By then, Princess Qianyou might already be dead. Zhong Shan didn''t want her to die, so he decided to go himself. Although Zhong Shan wasn''t the strongest in attack, his defense was exceptionally formidable.


    He had a ninth-grade magic treasure, the Purple Cotton Cassock, and the mysterious ck Jade Talisman. At the very least, his safety wasn''t an issue because the pink lotus in the middle of his eyebrows hadn''t changed color.


    Zhong Shan went!


    At that moment, Old Master Tian''s voice sounded again at the location of Yingning and Princess Qianyou.


    "Zhong Shan is only at the Golden Core stage; he''s too weak. Even if he can stop the Reincarnation Passage from expanding, he can''t severely injure that geomancer. The geomancer must have at least Royal Extreme cultivation level to set up such a derivative world. Once Zhong Shan is dealt with, the geomancer will continue to expand the Reincarnation Passage. You two need to be prepared to either escape to the outside world the moment the Reincarnation Passage halts, or go back and defeat the geomancer," Old Master Tian said solemnly.


    "Old Master Tian, as soon as Zhong Shan halts the Reincarnation Passage, send me out," Yingning immediately said.


    "Alright!" Old Master Tian replied.


    "I''m staying! Zhong Shan will be fine!" Princess Qianyou said worriedly.


    "Big Sister Qianyou, you shoulde out with me!" Yingning quickly urged.


    "Shut up!" Princess Qianyou red at Yingning with hatred. She then turned her head, looking anxiously at Zhong Shan.


    In just a short while, the Heavenly Wood Staff had brought Zhong Shan to a spot not far from the You Residence''s Wheel Hall.


    Upon arriving, Zhong Shan once again felt the terrifying aura of the You Residence''s Wheel Hall. It was colossal and awe-inspiring, like an overwhelming heavenly force pressing down on him. However, Zhong Shan''s attention was more focused on the geomancer standing above the Reincarnation Passage. The one manipting the passage with both hands, seemingly operating the Reincarnation Passage, was the ''Wheel King''.

 Chapter 352: Encountering the Clay Buddha Again

    <h4>Chapter 352: Encountering the y Buddha Again</h4>


    The Wheel King, who maniptes the cycles of yin and yang, reincarnation, and the passage of life and death.


    As Zhong Shan flew closer, his mind remained intensely focused. Stopping the geomancer from continuing his ritual? With force? Forget it!


    "Senior!" Zhong Shan called out humbly, hoping his words might deter the geomancer from continuing.


    The geomancer in the distance paused slightly.


    "Senior, the Daguang Dynasty''s fate is already sealed. It is not easy to reverse this alone. The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty has its own geomancers and countless supreme experts. If you continue obstinately, it will inevitably lead to mutual destruction, and the Daguang Dynasty won''tst any longer because of you. Moreover, the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty has already dispatched numerous armies to bypass the White Mist region andunch a full-scale attack on Aurora City! I dare to ask, Senior, to cease your actions here!" Zhong Shan said, using a mixture of firmness and tact.


    Of course, Zhong Shan''s words were just a probe. He had a whole series of ns ready to continue persuading this geomancer.


    But then, the geomancer actually lifted his head, seemingly moved by Zhong Shan''s words.


    Seeing the geomancer''s reaction, Zhong Shan was taken aback. Could it be? Was he really persuaded so easily? Zhong Shan felt an unreal sensation wash over him.


    "You''vee, after all," the geomancer said in a hoarse voice.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan didn''t understand what the geomancer meant.


    "Since you haven''t realized it, then next time," the geomancer continued.


    "Senior..." Zhong Shan said, frowning.


    But the geomancer no longer spoke to Zhong Shan. Instead, he stomped his foot, and the Reincarnation Passage beneath him abruptly began to close, copsing furiously towards the distance. Then, the geomancer''s figure blurred and vanished into a shadowy afterimage.


    Zhong Shan stood there, dumbfounded, unable toprehend the situation. It was absurd, incredibly absurd. The geomancer left?


    Could it be that the geomancer''s mental fortitude was so weak that he was swayed by just a few words?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    In the Netherworld, within the realm of the You Residence''s Wheel Hall, a sudden rumble erupted. The sky fractured abruptly, even the moon seemed to shatter in an instant. Countless pces copsed with a roar, many mountains crumbled, and rivers dried up. Everything signaled the copse of the Netherworld.


    The geomancer had left?


    Zhong Shan frowned tightly. It was impossible for the geomancer to be swayed by just a few words. There had to be another reason. What was it? What exactly was going on?


    "You''vee, after all!" "Since you haven''t realized it, then next time."


    Recalling the geomancer''s words, Zhong Shan''s eyes widened, a strong sense of frustration filling his heart.


    Zhong Shan remembered. He understood what was going on and who the geomancer was!


    The y Buddha! It was the y Buddha!


    A strange, bitter smile appeared on Zhong Shan''s face. He was both angry and annoyed, shocked and delighted!


    The y Buddha. Zhong Shan was certain it was him. It was such a pity he hadn''t recognized him earlier! Their old wager��if he found the y Buddha again in Shenzhou, the y Buddha would join the Great Zheng Dynasty. Just a little bit more, just a little bit. At the same time, Zhong Shan felt a burst of joy. Back then, it was just a spective investment; he hadn''t expected the geomancer to be so powerful.


    The You Residence''s Wheel Hall! This was the y Buddha''s ability?


    Zhong Shan could only sigh for not recognizing the y Buddha. There was no regret because Zhong Shan never expected that the y Buddha, who even failed topete with his master for a woman in the past, would possess such formidable power. If it weren''t for thest two sentences giving him away, Zhong Shan would never have guessed his identity.


    The Netherworld was disintegrating rapidly, with the Reincarnation Passage shrinking swiftly. As the Netherworld exploded into nothingness, the ancient holy city in the Yang Realm, Taigu Shengdu, began to recover its momentum, expanding with fury.


    From a distant mountaintop, Princess Qianyou clenched her fists, her face alight with excitement and exhration. Once again, Mr. Zhong had defeated an enemy with mere words!


    Yingning, on the other hand, stood wide-eyed, filled with disbelief.


    Not only was Yingning incredulous, but even Tian Lao was in a state of extreme confusion. What was going on? Who exactly was that geomancer, and why did he suddenly leave?


    Tian Lao, uncertain, probed with his senses and confirmed that the geomancer was indeed gone. Only then did he wave his hand.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The Taigu Shengdu of the Yang Realm also began to crumble rapidly. The Great Luo Heavenly Constetion Array instantly disbanded, dispersing countless fortunes across the world. Mountains split, rivers dried up, and floating inds copsed continuously. In just a short time, both the Netherworld and the Yang Realm had disintegrated into clouds and smoke, vanishingpletely.


    The surrounding world returned to the previous environment of dense fog.


    It was a vast grasnd shrouded in white mist. Tian Lao, Qianyou, and Yingning quickly ran to Zhong Shan.


    "Senior!" Zhong Shan handed the Tianmu Staff back to Tian Lao.


    "What happened? Where is the geomancer?" Tian Lao stared at Zhong Shan with urgency.


    "It seems he left!" Zhong Shan pretended to be bewildered.


    "Left? How is that possible? What did you say to him?" Tian Lao looked at Zhong Shan with deep suspicion.


    "I just told him that continuing like this wouldn''t end well, and that the Daguang Dynasty was bound to perish eventually!..." Zhong Shan repeated his earlier statements.


    Tian Lao stared intently at Zhong Shan, clearly not believing a word. His expression suggested he was about to devour Zhong Shan whole. Yingning and Qianyou, meanwhile, looked on with curiosity.


    "Senior, I really only said that much. He might have sensed the unstoppable might of the Heavenly Dynasty and decided to leave," Zhong Shan said.


    But this excuse was something Tian Lao would never believe. How could it be?


    "Did he say anything to you?" Tian Lao asked in a serious tone.


    Seeing Tian Lao''s disbelief, Zhong Shan reluctantly replied, "Senior, I remember now!"


    "Oh?" Tian Lao''s eyes fixed on Zhong Shan.


    "At the time, out of fear, I exposed this kasaya to bolster my courage. He saw my kasaya and suddenly said, ''How could this be?'' Then he said, ''I apologize for the offense.'' After that, he disappeared," Zhong Shan concocted a story.


    In any case, the y Buddha''s involvement couldn''t be revealed, so Zhong Shan decided to muddy the waters further.


    "Kasaya?" Tian Lao looked puzzled and then nced at the opened part of Zhong Shan''s clothing.


    "The Violet Cotton Kasaya? How could this be?" Tian Lao frowned.


    "Yes, the geomancer used the same tone as you, Tian Lao," Zhong Shan said excitedly.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s exnation, Tian Lao was speechless for a moment. He then looked at Zhong Shan and asked, "Where did you get this kasaya?"


    "It was given to me by Jinchao!" Zhong Shan replied.


    "Jinchao? A ninth-grade magical treasure, he really is generous," Tian Lao said, taking a deep breath.


    "Is the geomancer''s departure rted to this kasaya?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I didn''t expect him to be connected with the Pure Land of Bliss," Tian Lao said, frowning.


    "Tian Lao, do you know who he is?" Yingning immediately asked.


    "I''m not sure, but anyone who can create the Youfu Wheel Hall is likely rted to the Ghost Valley, a descendant of the ghost lineage," Tian Lao said with a sigh and a shake of his head.


    "Senior, why is it still foggy? Did the geomancer change the direction of the formation?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No, the geomantic formation has already been broken. I can feel it. However, this foggy weather is caused by the special positions of the sixty-four cities. After the formation was broken, the fog will disperse within a hundred days," Tian Lao exined.


    "Then, Senior, we should hurry back. A hundred days! In that time, we can take control of all sixty-four cities!" Zhong Shan suggested, also using this opportunity to change the subject away from the geomancer.


    "Haha, Eastern Marquis, you truly are a military genius, so diligent and meticulous. If everyone in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty were like you, even the ancient gods would be greatlyforted," Tian Lao remarked with a peculiar tone.


    "Uh, Senior, you tter me. This is just the responsibility of every citizen of the Heavenly Dynasty," Zhong Shan replied, somewhat embarrassed.


    Giving Zhong Shan a strange look, Tian Lao said, "Let''s go! I''ll take you out. I won''t be going to Gu Xuan''s ce."


    "Yes," Zhong Shan immediately nodded.


    "Qianyou, Yingning, you twoe with me back to Taigu Shengdu. I need to assess you!" Tian Lao said.


    "Yes!" The two women responded with a bit of excitement.


    Reporting Back to the Great Xuan King


    In the main tent of the Great Xuan King, Zhong Shan reported on the matter of the geomantic formation.


    "Ny-six days left?" The Great Xuan King looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Yes, my lord. My wolf cavalry can summon arge number of wild wolves, and your tiger cavalry can summon wild tigers. The sixty-four cities are a gift from Han Jiguang to us," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Good!" The Great Xuan King expressed satisfaction.


    "Zhong Shan, you''ve made great contributions again this time. I will report to the emperor. Capturing the twelve coastal cities, executing the Heaven Copse n, breaking the geomantic formation, leading the pack of wolves to capture cities��each is an extraordinary achievement. Once we''ve subdued the Daguang Dynasty, we will return to Taigu Shengdu to discuss merits and rewards," said the Great Xuan King.


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan responded.


    "Prepare the troops. We''ll capture the cities immediately!" The Great Xuan Kingmanded.


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan replied promptly.

 Chapter 353:Choice

    <h4>Chapter 353:Choice</h4>


    The Fall of the Sixty-Four Cities


    In the dense white fog, sixty-four citiesy within its shroud.


    Over three months, twenty armies swept through the region with astounding speed. Wild wolves and tigers yed crucial roles in these swift conquests. The cities, hidden in the fog, were caught off guard, taken so rapidly that there was barely any time to pacify the popce before the armies moved on to the next target.


    By the time the fog cleared, all sixty-four cities had fallen.


    This significant victory meant that the Daguang Dynasty, with its original 180 cities, had now lost two-thirds of its territory. With the sixty-four cities captured, the next challenge was to face the stronghold of Jiguang City.


    The Situation in Jiguang City


    Inside the royal pce of Jiguang City, in the study of Emperor Han Jiguang.


    "Father, Third Brother is dead, and we''ve lost the sixty-four cities!" an anxious crown prince reported.


    "The armies of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty will soon be at our gates," added another crown prince.


    Both princes were visibly distressed.


    Looking up at his two sons, Han Jiguang furrowed his brows and said, "Why are you panicking?"


    At his stern reprimand, both princes immediately fell silent.


    "The Mud Buddha''s defeat was unexpected, yet not entirely surprising," Han Jiguang mused, his brows knitted.


    "Father, did you anticipate that the Mud Buddha would be defeated?" the crown prince asked.


    "As a leader, one must consider every possibility. There is no such thing as absolute defense," Han Jiguang replied.


    "Father, I remember that throughout this ordeal, our ''Ice Army'' has not been deployed. Are you nning to use the ''Ice Army'' now?" the second prince inquired eagerly.


    "The Ice Army? It has taken me thousands of years to build it up. I''m not going to squander it here," Han Jiguang shook his head.


    "Not use it? Father, the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty willunch a full-scale attack on Jiguang City within two months. When will you use it if not now? Father, we can''t wait any longer," the second prince insisted.


    "Silence!" Han Jiguang''s voice thundered, silencing the second prince instantly. Both princes looked at their father in confusion. Why was their father so calm, even in the face of such an imminent threat? Why was he not deploying his trump card?


    Seeing the persistent worry on his sons'' faces, Han Jiguang sighed and said, "Don''t worry, I''ve made arrangements. Soon, I will send you both to a safe ce."


    "Father, I don''t want to leave. I want to stay and defend against the enemy with you," the crown prince dered.


    "I don''t want to leave either," the second prince echoed.


    Seeing their determination, Han Jiguang smiled warmly, "Though you bothck great talent, you do understand filial piety. Don''t worry, I''m not nning to fight the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty head-on."


    "Uh, Father, are you nning to surrender to the Great Xuan King?" the crown prince asked, perplexed.


    "Surrender? To the Great Xuan King? Hmph, he''s not worthy! Don''t worry, I just want to test the limits of this so-called Great Xuan King, and refine my martial arts in the process," Han Jiguang said with a dismissive wave.


    "But, but what about Jiguang City?" the crown prince asked with concern.


    Looking at his worried sons, Han Jiguang smiled faintly, "We won''t need Jiguang City anymore."


    "Won''t need it anymore?" both princes eximed in shock.


    "The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty is too dominant this time. Even though we still have sixty cities left, it''s only a matter of time before we arepletely overrun," Han Jiguang said.


    "But, Father!" the crown prince protested.


    "I built the Daguang Dynasty with my own hands, and I''ve witnessed countless battles. I can see what''s happening. The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty''s campaign aligns with the will of Heaven, resonates with the people''s sentiment, and adheres to moral righteousness. Even without the Mud Buddha''s formation, it''s only a matter of time before they conquer us. When a force aligns with Heaven, has the support of the people, and upholds righteousness, it bes invincible, no matter how small the army," Han Jiguang exined.


    The Grand Strategy of Han Jiguang


    The fall of the Dayu Dynasty is merely a precedent, and my Daguang Dynasty will follow suit. The other three empires that are besieging the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty will meet the same fate. War is not just about individual battles; it''s about understanding the broader trends of the world," Han Jiguang shook his head, looking at his sons with a hint of disappointment.


    "Father, are we just going to give up so easily?" the second prince asked anxiously.


    "Haha, it seems that your luxurious and pampered lives have clouded your judgment. Yes, our cities in the Daguang Dynasty are lost, but losing something doesn''t mean it can''t be regained. We''ve lost something intangible, but as long as we still hold on to what''s substantial, we are not truly defeated," Han Jiguang said with an air of confidence.


    "Father, I don''t understand," the crown prince said, looking puzzled.


    "The Ice Army is still intact, my wealth is secure, the finest talents of our dynasty are still with us, and most importantly, we three are still here. If we lose the Daguang Dynasty here, who''s to say we can''t establish another Daguang Dynasty elsewhere in this vastnd?" Han Jiguang said with a tone of pride.


    Only someone like Han Jiguang, who built an empire from scratch, could say such words. A ruler who created an empire through sheer willpower and determination naturally possesses the courage to start anew.


    Surrender? No emperor who has founded an empire would ever yield. They all possess the audacity to challenge the heavens and forge new paths.


    "Father, do you mean we should leave this ce, take our strength, wealth, and talents, and establish a new dynasty elsewhere?" the crown prince finally grasped the idea.


    "That''s ast resort. Moving to another ce? Not necessarily," Han Jiguang shook his head.


    "Uh?" Both princes were confused again.


    "How long can the Great Luo Heavenly Dynastyst? As long as Gu Shentong exists in this world, the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty will remain. But Gu Shentong? He won''tst much longer. The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty is close to fracturing. Once it falls, we can immediately rise again and establish an even greater Daguang Dynasty here!" Han Jiguang said resolutely.


    Hearing Han Jiguang''s words, the two princes were speechless, exchanging nces before lowering their heads. Compared to their father''s wisdom, courage, and grand vision, they were still far behind. The ability to discard a vast empire so casually is a quality possessed by only a few.


    The Campaign Against Jiguang City


    As Han Jiguang predicted, two monthster, after the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty had reestablished control over the sixty-four cities and pacified the popce, they finally took a significant step forward.


    The target was Jiguang City.


    With twenty armies moving forward, with the Great Xuan King at the center, they advanced towards Jiguang City. The scale of this campaign was even grander than the previous assault on the Sky City.


    This was the day of the final battle, the moment when the Great Xuan King would harvest the fruits of his military campaign.


    Sixty citiesy beyond Jiguang City. Once Jiguang City was taken, the cities behind it would pose no threat��they would be like unimed spoils, ready for the taking.


    Standing on the head of Yinsha Tian, the Great Xuan King, with his robes billowing in the wind, exuded a majestic presence, full of confidence and dominance. Of the four crown princes, only the Great Xuan King had advanced the fastest, with the most imposing force, and he would be the one to bring the campaign to a swift conclusion.


    Seeing the distant city, the Great Xuan King suddenly halted his troops.


    "In my absence, Marquis of the East, Zhong Shan, will lead the three armies to attack Jiguang City and seize all the cities of the Daguang Dynasty!" the Great Xuan Kingmanded.


    "Yes!~~~~~~" The three armies roared in unison, their voices shaking the heavens and scattering the clouds, leaving the sky clear and cloudless.


    Zhong Shan looked at the Great Xuan King, nodding with gratitude. The Dayu Dynasty had already fallen due to his Heavenly Copse n, but the Daguang Dynasty had no such n in ce.


    "Marquis of the East!" the Great Xuan King called out.


    At Zhong Shan''s feet, the zing fire wolf general immediately stepped forward and bowed respectfully, "At yourmand!"


    "Your Highness knows of your ability to extinguish the formative essence, entering Jiguang City, and just likest time, burning down the pce, and extinguishing the aura''s golden dragon,"manded the Great Xuan King.


    "Understood!" replied Zhong Shan.


    At that moment, far in the distance at Jiguang City, atop the city tower, the sky suddenly filled with falling frost and snow. Amidst the swirling snow, a majestic figure in white robes stood proudly.


    "Han Jiguang?" called out the Great Xuan King.


    "Gu Xuan!" came the voice from afar.


    "Let''s go!" shouted the Great Xuan King.


    With a step on the head of Yinsha Tian, the Great Xuan King soared into the sky, while Han Jiguang in the distance also ascended, two peerless experts, each with their own way of handling things. They transformed into two shooting stars heading towards distant directions.


    Once again, Zhong Shan tookmand of the three armies.


    Zhong Shan was also in his element. With a wave of his hand, the grand army marched towards Jiguang City.


    The twenty armies'' footsteps were thunderous, shaking the earth as they moved. Wherever they passed, it felt like an earthquake, with mountains and boulders tumbling endlessly.


    Under the head of the zing fire wolf, Zhong Shan looked towards Jiguang City in the distance.


    Simr in scale to the Sky City, the city walls radiated a chilling atmosphere resembling an ice pce. Above the city, an aura cloud had diminished significantly. At its center, a golden dragon of aura, horns pointing to the sky, red fiercely. After the loss of one hundred and twenty cities, its radiance had also dimmed considerably, appearing increasingly feeble.


    The strength of the aura''s golden dragon depended entirely on the current state of affairs. As the Daguang Dynasty was nearing its end, it naturally weakened the aura''s golden dragon to an unprecedented degree.


    Nevertheless, even in its weakened state, it was stronger than the aura''s golden dragon of the Sky City.


    While others frowned at the aura''s golden dragon, Zhong Shan''s eyes gleamed with anticipation!


    With the enemy at the gates, Zhong Shan waved his hand, halting the army. Instead of rushing to attack the city, he carefully observed the situation.


    The twenty armies waited patiently, with only the defenders on the city tower showing slight nervousness.


    "Marshal, themander of the 18th Army, Marshal Shuijing, seeks an audience!" a guard by Zhong Shan''s side called out.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan furrowed his brows.


    "Let hime!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" The guard immediately withdrew.


    Soon, Shuijing approached riding a fierce tiger.


    "Greetings, Marshal!" Shuijing respectfully greeted.


    "With a major battle impending, why aren''t you leading troops? What brings you here?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I''vee to deliver a trump card to the Marshal," Shuijing smiled.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was slightly puzzled.


    Shuijing retrieved a letter from his pocket. "Ten years ago, I dispatched scouts to infiltrate Jiguang City, embedding them deeply. Here''s the confidential report my scout sent a month ago!"


    "Ten years ago?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted as he stared at Shuijing. This Shuijing had indeed made profound preparations, starting to reim Jiguang City a decade ago? Unbelievable! If not for my presence on the battlefield and the grand array of Mud Bodhisattva, perhaps Shuijing would shine brightest in the Daguang Dynasty''s battlefield because he had nned and strategized for the entire battlefield more than a decade ago.


    It''s just that he didn''t expect the war to speed up immensely due to some circumstances!


    Taking the "trump card" handed over by Shuijing, Zhong Shan examined it closely, then looked up in slight astonishment at Shuijing, saying, "Excellent! This message from Shuijing alone is worth ten million troops!"

 Chapter 354: Return to the Capital

    <h4>Chapter 354: Return to the Capital</h4>


    Within the city of Aurora, mes surged skyward from the imperial pce grounds. General Zhongshan sat cross-legged amidst his troops, protected by tens of thousands.


    The city was taken swiftly upon the receipt of a secret missive from Shuijing. It spoke of the disappearance of insightful courtiers a month prior and the weakening military force within. Themander, though esteemed,cked formidable capabilities. Even the famed Frost Guard was not at its peak. Detailed in the message was the character of the North Gate''s defender.


    A letter tied to a feathered arrow flew up the city walls, revealing threats and promises that coerced the gatekeeper into submission. Once inside, Zhongshan''s forces swiftly secured the city. With the remaining troops, he marched directly towards the imperial pce, where mes engulfed the celestial halls. A golden dragon, emblem of the heavens, lunged toward Zhongshan, only to be devoured by the Eight Extremities Tail, unleashing a surge of energy that purified Zhongshan''s karma, aiding his breakthrough.


    The dragon''s entry fortified by ten million soldiers bore witness to Zhongshan''s increased prowess, a testament uniquely his own.


    Five hourster, bolts of lightning burst forth from Zhongshan''s body, forming a cocoon of brilliant light, encasing him in a sphere. Thunder crackled intensely, dazzlingly bright.


    Another breakthrough��Zhongshan emerged with his Purple Mansion now dense with pure Yang energy, its essence akin to boundless mist. Just one final catalyst would condense all this essence into a Nascent Infant.


    Tenth Dan of the Golden Core!


    Zhongshan''s eyes opened, the lightning dissipating gently around him, silently fading away. Witnessing such control over thunder left all in awe. Soft thunder? Even the Emperor''s fire paled inparison.


    No one but Zhongshan could tame such ferocious thunder into gentle streams. Those who met his gaze felt thunderous explosions, not only within his eyes but within their hearts, leaving all awestruck. When Zhongshan''s eyes returned to normal, the pce still burned.


    Zhongshan rose, surveying his generals. "Commanders, hear me. Divide into neen routes immediately, sweep the remaining sixty cities of the Grand Light Empire. Leave none unimed!"


    "Yes!" Themanders responded in unison.


    Leaving only Zhongshan''s forces to consolidate Aurora City��a sweeping operation of grand scale.


    Within six months, the sixty remaining cities of the Grand Light Empire were seized and assimted under the banner of the Great Luo Celestial Empire. Adjacent empires dared not intervene, overwhelmed by the magnitude of Zhongshan''s campaign. The Grand Light Empire was erased from the map of the Divine Land.


    And thus, the battlefield of Great Xuan fell silent. War had ended.


    Aurora City, within Zhongshan''s encampment.


    Zhongshan looked at Zhao Chuan before him.


    "Zhao Chuan, the war is over. You will return to the Great Xuan Army immediately. You have served diligently these years," Zhongshan said sincerely.


    "Over these years, under the General''s guidance, Zhao Chuan has learned invaluable lessons that will benefit him for life. Although I return to the Great Xuan Army now, I take pride in having served in General Zhong''s ranks. If the General ever needs me in the future, Zhao Chuan will spare no effort," Zhao Chuan expressed with deep reluctance, bowing respectfully.


    "Travel safely," Zhongshan responded, sping Zhao Chuan''s raised fist.


    "Thank you, General! Farewell, my fellow generals!" With a heavy heart, Zhao Chuan departed the camp of the Great Xuan Army''s First Battalion.


    "General Zhao, fare thee well!" echoed the generals within the camp, their voices tinged with reluctance.


    Observing Zhao Chuan''s departure, Zhongshan narrowed his eyes and took a deep breath before turning to hismanders.


    "Shui Wuheng, how fares the Zhong n Private Army?" Zhongshan queried from hismand seat.


    "Reporting, General. The Zhong n Army consists of forty-five thousand Wolf Cavalry and seventy-five thousand elite soldiers, totaling eighty thousand," Shui Wuheng promptly reported.


    "Only eighty thousand?" Zhongshan fixed his gaze on Shui Wuheng.


    "Yes, precisely eighty thousand," affirmed Shui Wuheng with unwavering certainty.


    Pleased with Shui Wuheng''s steadfastness, Zhongshan smiled satisfactorily. Eighty thousand? Zhongshan''s eighty thousand soldiers could rival two hundred thousand of any other army.


    "Very well. Provide ample spiritual stones for continued rigorous training," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Yes, General!" Shui Wuheng acknowledged.


    "General, what about the Crown Prince of the captured Grand Light Empire?" Shui Wuheng inquired.


    "You mean the one who returned for a woman and refused to leave?" Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Yes, precisely," chuckled Shui Wuheng.


    "Have we extracted any useful information from him?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Not yet. He only knows someone wille for him, but he doesn''t know where he''ll be taken," replied Shui Wuheng.


    "Release him," Zhongshan decided after a moment''s thought.


    "Release him?" Shui Wuheng frowned.


    "Han Jiguang is a formidable figure. In his duel with the Great Xuan King, both were severely injured, but they ultimately withdrew intact. If he values his son this much, he''lle for him. Holding the Crown Prince hostage would be a liability, not an achievement," Zhongshan exined solemnly.


    "But..." Shui Wuheng hesitated.


    "This is not our concern. Release him," Zhongshan reiterated.


    "Yes, General," Shui Wuhengplied immediately.


    "A royal decree!" Suddenly, a sharp voice of a eunuch sounded from outside the camp.


    Zhongshan rose swiftly and led his generals outside.


    "Zhongshan receives the decree!" shouted an elderly eunuch in ck robes as Zhongshan emerged.


    "I, Zhongshan, pay respects to His Majesty!" Zhongshan dered.


    "We pay respects to His Majesty!" echoed the assembled generals.


    "By the mandate of Heaven, His Majesty decrees: Eastern Marquis Zhongshan, having fulfilled our expectations, has glorified himself on the battlefields of Grand Light and Grand Universe. Assisting the Great Xuan King in pacifying external threats, he has achieved outstanding military merits. His Majesty orders the Eastern Marquis to immediately return to the Ancient Sacred Capital. There, in court, he shall be honored and rewarded, and enshrined in the hall of gods! Long live His Majesty!" the eunuch proimed.


    "Long live His Majesty! Long live, long live!" Zhongshan responded, receiving the decree with reverence.


    "Long live, long live, long live!" cheered the generals with excitement.


    Ordered to return to court! After over a decade of warfare, Zhongshan was finally heading home.


    The Ancient Sacred Capital, the court of the emperor? Meeting His Majesty? Zhongshan felt a slight excitement in his heart. He should have met the emperor thirteen years ago, but it had been dyed until now��


    Five monthster.


    Zhongshan arrived with his 800,000 Zhong n soldiers just outside the Ancient Sacred Capital. This was their final rest stop before officially entering the city.


    An hourter, Zhongshan soared from a valley, proiming, "Prepare to march!"


    "Roar~~~" A unified shout erupted from the three armies, filled with excitement.


    Marching along the mountain roads, they swiftly headed towards the Ancient Sacred Capital.


    Flying high in the sky, Zhongshan could already see the distant splendor of the Ancient Sacred Capital. The surging sea of Qi luck appeared even more majestic, and the Great Luo Celestial Empire prospered.


    As Zhongshan led the troops forward, a distant speck suddenly flew towards him in disarray. Behind the speck followed five or six figures, all dressed in ck robes, chasing after the foremost person.


    Zhongshan halted the army, descending from the clouds alongside Zhihuo, and held his ground, allowing them to pass.


    "Master~~~" The foremost person, in a desperate escape, cried out in pleasant surprise.


    "Ada?" Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed.


    In the blink of an eye, Ada flew closer.


    Ada appeared extremely disheveled, his clothes torn in many ces with a massive wound on his back, flesh and blood exposed. Yet, his face was filled with relief.


    Upon seeing this, Zhongshan was furious! Who dared to harm Ada?


    Zhongshan waved his hand, and Shui Wuheng immediately shouted, "Archers, prepare!"


    "Whoosh~~~" The Zhong n soldiers, well-trained, swiftly drew their bows, aiming directly at the five approaching figures from behind.


    Each figure carried a giant sword, their ck robes embroidered with the national beast totem of the Great Luo Celestial Empire��a fierce tiger.


    "Master, they are officials from the Imperial Court. Please do not harm them," Ada anxiously pleaded.


    "Hmm?" Zhongshan raised an eyebrow, then stared at the five individuals hovering in the air.


    "Bold Ada, how dare you escape with a crime? Come back with us!" The leader among the ck-robed individuals demanded.


    Recognizing the banner of the Great Luo Celestial Empire''s army, they chose to ignore it and focused on Ada.


    Zhongshan positioned himself in front of Ada, ring at the five individuals. "I don''t care who you are. Count to five, and disappear from my sight."


    "Hmph, who do you think you are?" The leader of the ck-robed men stared back.


    "One," Zhongshan''s voice remained cold.


    "We are officials from the Ministry of Punishments, tasked with apprehending imperial criminals. How dare you stop us?" The ck-robed man''s eyes narrowed.


    "Two," Zhongshan continued, unmoved.


    Meanwhile, Shui Wuheng swiftly organized the troops into formation. In no time, they were ready to charge, with numerous arrows aimed at the five in the sky.


    Tensions escted quickly.


    "Whose subordinates are you?" The ck-robed leader shouted.


    "Three."


    With Zhongshan''s third count, beads of sweat appeared on the foreheads of all five individuals. Who was this man? Such imposing aura!


    "Identify yourselves so I can report back!" The leader finally softened. If they couldn''t capture Ada, they needed at least to identify who had intercepted him.


    "Four," Zhongshan stated expressionlessly.


    "Go!" The leader shouted abruptly, turning with the others and swiftly flying away.

 Chapter 355: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Triumphant Return

    <h4>Chapter 355: Zhong Shan��s Triumphant Return</h4>


    The final utterance of ''five'' never had a chance to be spoken. The five Ministry of Justice officials fled in fear from Zhong Shan!


    Turning around, Zhong Shan looked at Ah Da, raising an eyebrow. "What''s going on? How did you end up like this? Where is the princess?"


    "Master, you must help the princess. She is now under house arrest," Ah Da said urgently.


    "House arrest? The princess? Who dares to imprison her?" Zhong Shan''s eyes widened in astonishment.


    "It''s true. The princess''s mansion is sealed off, and she''s been confined inside. Ah Er and I were also locked up there. The princess foresaw that you would return soon, so she sent us out to find you. Heaven showed mercy, and I finally found you. Those men who were chasing me were the ones guarding the princess''s mansion. Ah Er and I split up to escape," Ah Da quickly exined.


    "What exactly happened?" Zhong Shan furrowed his brow.


    The princess, of all people, imprisoned? Given her status, this must be a significant issue.


    "Rumor has it that the princess killed Princess Yingning. It has shocked the entire court. His Majesty is furious!" Ah Da reported.


    "Yingning? Yingning is dead?" Zhong Shan frowned deeply.


    "Yes, many officials im to have witnessed the princess killing Yingning with the ''Wind God Arrow''. There are witnesses and physical evidence. The princess is in serious trouble this time," Ah Da said, visibly worried.


    "The princess couldn''t have killed Yingning. What is being said outside?" Zhong Shan asked with a deep frown.


    "The Elder Tian was going to choose between the princess and Yingning to inherit his teachings. In the end, Yingning was chosen. Rumor has it that the princess was jealous and killed Yingning out of spite," Ah Da exined.


    "Who is spreading this?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Everyone is saying it, everyone," Ah Da replied with great concern.


    "Witnesses, evidence, motive for murder��all are in ce?" Zhong Shan''s face turned cold with a smile.


    "Master, the princess is definitely innocent," Ah Da insisted.


    "Did you deliver my message to the princess?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Ah Da intently.


    "Yes, master. I told the princess not to force anything. If she couldn''tpete with Yingning, she shouldn''t insist on learning feng shui techniques. I conveyed your words exactly," Ah Da replied, his face firm with confidence.


    "So, what is the current verdict on the princess?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "There''s no verdict yet. This is a matter within the royal family, and no officials dare to intervene. His Majesty has decided to wait for all four crown princes to return to the capital and then judge the case together," Ah Da exined.


    "Wait for all four crown princes to return?" Zhong Shan frowned again.


    "Yes. If it were about killing an outsider, His Majesty''s affection for the princess wouldn''t make it this severe. But His Majesty despises infighting among his descendants the most. This time, the princess is in real danger. If the charges are confirmed, it means she killed her own sister, and His Majesty cannot tolerate that. Her status makes her the focus of this storm. We must wait for the four crown princes to gather and decide her fate," Ah Da said with deep concern.


    "Yingning became the disciple of Elder Tian, and the princess, out of jealousy, killed her royal sister? What a grave usation," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "What does Elder Tian say?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Ah Da once more.


    "Elder Tian said he would stay out of it and, from now on, would never take the princess as a disciple," Ah Da replied.


    "He refuses to take the princess as a disciple? Such a resolute stance, it''s a dire situation," Zhong Shan said, narrowing his eyes.


    "How many of the four crown princes have returned?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Two have returned: the First Crown Prince and the Crown Prince of the Da Xuan Kingdom, which means the princess''s father, King Zhengyi, and King Daxuan," Ah Da quickly answered.


    "What do they say?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "King Daxuan has said nothing, remaining very silent, seemingly waiting for all the crown princes to gather before speaking. As for King Zhengyi, he hasn''t defended the princess but stated that he will handle the matter impartially," Ah Da exined.


    "Handle it impartially? Ha," Zhong Shan sneered.


    "How is the court leaning now? Are there any officials speaking in favor of the princess?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "On the court, besides the Grand Tutor who suggested a thorough investigation, most ministers are silent. Those who im to have seen the event are being incited by Marquis Qitian, pushing to convict Princess Qianyou," Ah Da exined.


    "Marquis Qitian?" Zhong Shan''s eyes widened.


    "Yes, it seems that after the incident at the Valley of Ten Thousand Apes, Marquis Qitian harbors resentment. Moreover, Yingning was his full sister, so he''s very agitated and has publicly denounced the princess," Ah Da borated.


    "The situation is dire. There are witnesses, physical evidence, and a motive. With Yingning dead, the royal family is now against the princess. Even her father, King Zhengyi, is distancing himself. With Marquis Qitian leading a faction of radicals, they''re continually making things worse. Public opinion is also aligning against the princess, using her of jealousy. She''s up against the entire world. This must have been extremely hard for you all," Zhong Shan sighed deeply.


    "No, Ah Da and Ah Er are fine. The real burden has been on the princess. She hardly speaks anymore and has be much thinner," Ah Da said with a look of sorrow.


    "Did the princess send any message with you?" Zhong Shan asked Ah Da.


    "Yes!" Ah Da quickly replied.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The princess asked me to tell you that ''I did not kill her''," Ah Da said, looking intently at Zhong Shan.


    ''Did not kill her?''


    "Master, the princess is certainly innocent. You must save her," Ah Da pleaded with a look of desperation.


    "Don''t worry. I believe her. If she says she didn''t do it, then she didn''t. This means there''s a colossal conspiracy aimed at the princess. Hisssss..." Zhong Shan took a deep breath and furrowed his brow.


    "So, what should we do now, Master?" Ah Da asked immediately.


    "You should focus on recovering from your injuries first. I will take you back to the Ancient Holy Capital. Then you should return to the princess''s residence," Zhong Shan contemted for a moment and said.


    "But Master, the princess..." Ah Da frowned.


    "Tell her that I will help her!" Zhong Shan said, staring at Ah Da.


    "Yes!" Ah Da exhaled a sigh of relief.


    Zhong Shan''s army continued to march toward the Ancient Holy Capital. Zhong Shan''s mind was racing with thoughts about the current situation.


    How to overturn the world''s perception?


    Zhong Shan, leading his 800,000 troops, approached the Ancient Holy Capital. As they drew closer, the grandeur and prosperity of the city became more apparent, with its bustling and vibrant atmosphere reaching their ears.


    "What are you people?" Two patrol officers from the Ancient Holy Capital flew over from the distance.


    Zhong Shan took out a brick-like identification token and said, "By the Emperor''s decree, I return to the court to be conferred as a deity!"


    One of the officers took Zhong Shan''s identification token and examined it carefully.


    After checking, both officers immediately bowed respectfully to Zhong Shan. "Wee back to the court, Marquis of the East. The Emperor has ordered that upon your return, you are to await his summons at the Eastern Residence."


    "The Eastern Residence?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, it''s a residence bestowed upon you by the Emperor," one of the officers exined.


    "Can it amodate my 800,000 private troops?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Absolutely!" one of the officers replied with a smile.


    "Very well, I''ll trouble you two to lead the way!" Zhong Shan smiled, demonstrating mutual respect.


    As the army continued forward, a group of nearly fifty men suddenly flew in from a distance. At the forefront was a man in a purple tiger official robe, with a prominent forehead, a scar on his face, and a fierce look in his eyes. Behind him were a group of ck-robed subordinates, including the five who had previously chased Ah Da and were scared off by Zhong Shan''s troops.


    "Master, that''s Ma Zhuiri, the Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Justice and Marquis Qitian''s uncle. He was one of the people who testified against the princess. He''s here to catch me," Ah Da whispered to Zhong Shan.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes.


    The group halted not far from Zhong Shan''s army.


    "How dare you, Zhong Shan! You dare to harbor a wanted criminal?" Ma Zhuiri immediately pointed at Zhong Shan and eximed.


    How dare you, Zhong Shan? Zhong Shan squinted his eyes. Does he know me?


    "Who are you, and how do you know me?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow and asked.


    "Someone informed me that the person behind you is a wanted criminal. I''m here to take him away. You''d better stay out of the way," Ma Zhuiri said arrogantly.


    "Hahaha! You''ve got some nerve. Who dares to seize someone from my camp?" Zhong Shan startedughing, then his eyes turned cold.


    "This is the Ancient Holy Capital. It''s not a ce for you to act recklessly. I''m taking him away. What can you do? Will you defy the Emperor''s orders? Arrest him!" Ma Zhuiri shouted without backing down.


    "How dare you!" Zhong Shan roared in anger.


    "Arrest him!" Ma Zhuirimanded.


    "Kill!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Kill!" The entire army shouted in unison. The formation was quickly set.


    All the anti-barrier arrows were drawn. With amand from Shui Wuhen, tens of thousands of arrows wereunched. Yes, tens of thousands of arrows were shot wildly in Ma Zhuiri''s direction.


    Ma Zhuiri and his men were dumbfounded on the spot! Based on his subordinates'' reports, he knew Zhong Shan was unreasonable, but he didn''t expect such extremity. One word of disagreement and it was a kill order! How could this be?


    "Boom!"


    Everyone raised their protective shields, and an Emperor-level subordinate shielded Ma Zhuiri. With a loud explosion, Ma Zhuiri and his men were blown back over three hundred meters by the barrage of arrows. Cold sweat broke out all over them!


    They had no time to react. The wolf cavalry was already charging forward, their mouths open, eyes ring fiercely. The 800,000 soldiers were charging as if they were on a battlefield, not just facing fifty men.


    "Zhong Shan, you''ll pay for this! You just wait!" Ma Zhuiri turned and fled with his men, but not before shouting a threat.


    "Fire!"


    "Whoosh!" Twenty thousand anti-barrier arrows were shot wildly.


    Ma Zhuiri fled even faster! The two patrol guards on the side were already stunned, watching the scene unfold.

 Chapter 356: Audience with the Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 356: Audience with the Emperor</h4>


    After another volley of arrows, Ma Zhuiri, along with his severely injured subordinates, retreated into the Ancient Holy Capital. Zhong Shan then ceased fire.


    "Master, Master!" Ah Da stood there in a daze, looking into the distance.


    "Duke of the East, you''ve caused great trouble just now. That man is associated with the Grand King..." One of the patrol soldiers said, looking worriedly at Zhong Shan.


    "Trouble? What trouble? A few rogues tried to raid my camp. You saw it yourselves; they wanted to arrest my people without a word. If we don''t teach them a lesson today, even more scoundrels will dare to cause trouble in the future." Zhong Shan red with determination.


    "Uh?" The two patrol soldiers exchanged a nce and said nothing more. Indeed, Ma Zhuiri and his men didn''t identify themselves and immediately attempted to seize someone from Zhong Shan''s camp. Zhong Shan, just returning from afar, naturally "didn''t recognize" them. Since the Duke "didn''t recognize" them, they wouldn''t say anything either.


    Of course, the two soldiers didn''t realize that even if Ma Zhuiri had announced his identity, Zhong Shan would still have ignored him.


    "Duke of the East, please follow us!" one of the patrol soldiers said.


    "Hmm!" Zhong Shan nodded and led his army to follow the patrol soldiers towards the Ancient Holy Capital.


    Not long after, they arrived at the so-called Eastern Residence. The Eastern Residence was located in the eastern part of the Ancient Holy Capital. Though it was a bit remote, the environment was excellent and the area was vast. There was even arge floating ind hovering above.


    "Duke of the East, please wait here for the Emperor''s summons. We''ll take our leave now!" the patrol soldier said.


    "Thank you both!" Zhong Shan replied.


    "This is our duty." The two patrol soldiers then took their leave.


    "Zhihuo!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Here!" Zhihuo, the wolf general, responded immediately.


    "Escort Ah Da back to the princess''s residence," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, sir!" Zhihuo replied promptly.


    "Master, I''m off then!" Ah Da said.


    "Go on!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    With Zhihuo escorting him, Ah Da returned to the princess''s residence.


    "Wuhen, familiarize yourself with the surroundings, assign patrols, and designate areas for the soldiers to train!" Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes, sir!" Shui Wuhen responded immediately.


    "Wushuang,e with me!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Yes, sir!" Liu Wushuang responded promptly.


    Zhong Shan led Liu Wushuang up to the floating ind and into the Eastern Hall.


    Having been to many city lord''s mansions, Zhong Shan wasn''t too surprised by the opulence of the Eastern Hall.


    Inside the Eastern Hall:


    "Wushuang, I need you to carry out a task for me!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Just give me the order, Commander," Liu Wushuang said respectfully.


    Zhong Shan took out a jade slip and wrote some instructions on it before handing it solemnly to Liu Wushuang.


    "In the Ancient Holy Capital, on Commercial Street No. 3, there''s an inn called ''Yui Inn.'' Deliver this letter to the innkeeper there," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Understood," Liu Wushuang replied.


    Meanwhile, in the Ministry of Justice, at the office of the Deputy Minister of Justice:


    The Deputy Minister, Ma Zhuiri, was filled with both anger and perplexity as he dismissed everyone and returned to his office. As soon as he entered, he frowned.


    "Uncle, who has angered you so much?" came a voice from inside. It was Marquis Qitian.


    Upon seeing Marquis Qitian, Ma Zhuiri''s expression immediately softened, and a hint of ttery appeared on his face.


    "It''s that Zhong Shan you mentioned! He actually tried to kill me," Ma Zhuiri said quickly.


    "Oh?" Marquis Qitian''s eyes lit up with interest.


    Ma Zhuiri then recounted the entire incident in detail. As he spoke, a sly smile gradually appeared on Marquis Qitian''s lips.


    "Uncle, he''s guilty of harboring a criminal and attempting to murder a government official. And right here in the Ancient Holy Capital, no less! Attempting to murder a government official right under the Emperor''s nose��it''s outrageous! At the next morning court session, the Emperor will surely summon him to the pce. When that happens..." A ruthless glint shed in Marquis Qitian''s eyes.


    "I understand!" Ma Zhuiri replied with a fawning smile on his face.


    Three dayster, Zhong Shan sat in the Eastern Hall of the floating ind in the Eastern Residence. He gently tapped the armrest of his chair, deep in thought.


    At that moment, Shui Wuhen and Liu Wushuang walked slowly into the hall.


    "Commander, the matter you asked me to monitor has yielded results. Rumors are now spreading throughout the Ancient Holy Capital," Liu Wushuang reported.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan asked with his eyes still closed.


    "Now the word is that our army, returning from the front lines, was ambushed near the Ancient Holy Capital. Although there were no actual losses, the rumor makes it seem as if our forces are easy targets. This is damaging our army''s reputation," Liu Wushuang said.


    "Damaging our reputation? Haha, you don''t understand. After my audience with the Emperor, our army will be held as a paragon among all armies!" Zhong Shan said with a confident smile.


    "Huh?" Liu Wushuang was slightly taken aback.


    "Commander, was this spread by Yui Inn three days ago?" Liu Wushuang inquired.


    "Indeed. Right now, it''s just a joke in the Ancient Holy Capital. But soon, I will leverage this to establish the most positive image in the minds of the people," Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    "Is it because of Princess Qianyou?" Shui Wuhen asked, frowning.


    Zhong Shan opened his eyes slightly and smiled, "Wuhen, you''ve made a lot of progresstely!"


    "It''s all thanks to your guidance, Commander!" Shui Wuhen said with joy on his face, pleased with Zhong Shan''s praise.


    "Sigh, the trap set for the princess this time is extremely meticulous. Born out of jealousy, she supposedly killed her own sister? Such an usation not only angers the Emperor, viting thews of the dynasty, but also disgusts the public. She is almost universally condemned. Within the royal family, no one speaks for her, not even her own father, King Zhengyi. It''s a situation where the entire court is her enemy. Who dares to speak for her? Most courtiers remain silent not because they despise Princess Qianyou but because theyck the power to speak up. Anyone who does will also see their reputation ruined, as no one wants to listen to defenses for the princess. More importantly, not only has the scheme implicated the princess on a grand scale, but it has also meticulously covered every detail. Those who testified against her, dare they lie to the Emperor? No, which means the schemer''s precision is chilling, calcting even the witnesses. The thoroughness is terrifying," Zhong Shan sighed deeply.


    "What will you do, Commander?" Shui Wuhen asked with a frown, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Me? Haha, I''ve just returned to the capital, so I can''t be an ''aplice.'' This separates me from the situation. Furthermore, I''m going to use this incident to magnify my image significantly, to change some people''s perceptions of the princess. Then, I will clear her name," Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said.


    "Commander, your efforts are truly admirable!" Shui Wuhen sighed, understanding that Zhong Shan, usually a low-profile person, was now pushing himself into the most prominent spotlight for the sake of the princess.


    "A real man knows when to act and when not to. When it''s time to take responsibility, one must have the courage to break new ground. Only then is it worth having gone through the cycles of reincarnation toe to this world. Of course, a real man must not be without strategy," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" Both Shui Wuhen and Liu Wushuang responded respectfully.


    "The Emperor has summoned me. I am to enter the pce at dawn tomorrow. During this time, I must not be disturbed by anyone. I need to contemte the matter carefully," said Zhong Shan.


    "Understood!" The two attendants immediately retreated.


    The next day, at the hour of Mao (between 5 and 7 a.m.), Zhong Shan was led by a eunuch to the foot of the Taigu Sacred Mountain, below the imperial city of the Taigu Holy Capital. Today was the day he would face the Emperor.


    Before him stood a majestic mountain, its peak hidden in clouds. Yet above the clouds, rays of golden light burst forth, casting a rainbow-colored glow upon the mist, exuding infinite auspiciousness.


    At the foot of the mountain was a white jade za, and at the far end of the za was a staircase that stretched up to the top of the mountain, leading to the Taigu Sacred Hall, the court of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty!


    On either side of the staircase stood two rows of dutiful guards.


    "Lord of the East, this is the Taigu Mountain. The Taigu Sacred Hall is at the top. The mountain is six hundred and sixty zhang high, symbolizing the sixty-six heavens. You are to wait here until the Emperor summons you," exined an elderly eunuch to Zhong Shan.


    "Thank you for your trouble," Zhong Shan replied.


    The elderly eunuch shook his head with a smile and said no more.


    At the hour of Chen (between 7 and 9 a.m.), a sharp voice echoed from the cloud-shrouded mountain.


    "Announcing the presence of the Lord of the East, Zhong Shan, to enter the Taigu Sacred Hall!"


    The announcement was repeated nine times in total.


    "Lord of the East, please ascend the celestial staircase," said the attendant eunuch.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan swiftly stepped onto the celestial staircase, heading towards the Taigu Sacred Hall.


    Walking through the mist-covered staircase, Zhong Shan soon reached the summit of the Taigu Mountain.


    The Taigu Sacred Hall?


    What a grand Taigu Sacred Hall it was. At the summit of the Taigu Mountain stood nine massive stone dragons, their fierce eyes ring and roaring defiantly at the sky. The heads of the nine dragons pointed directly at arge hall in the center, which stood a hundred zhang tall.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but raise an eyebrow.


    The scene reminded him of the imperial jade seal in his possession. The jade seal was adorned with nine dragons vying for a pearl, just like the Taigu Mountain with its nine dragons vying for the Taigu Sacred Hall.


    Without hesitation, Zhong Shan stepped into the grand pce, surrounded by imposing guards.


    The Taigu Sacred Hall, the foremost hall of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty!


    With a single step, Zhong Shan felt as if he had entered another world. The most striking sight was to the north, where the Emperor of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty, Gu Shentong, sat upon the Celestial Throne of Nine Dragons.


    At first nce, Zhong Shan didn''t notice the Emperor''s appearance; instead, he felt an overwhelming sense of ''heaven.'' The figure on the Nine Dragons Throne seemed to embody the sky itself, the sky of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty.


    As for the ministers standing on either side, they felt like ''stars'' to him. While he could see the roof from the outside, inside it appeared to connect to an infinite void above, exuding boundless majesty.

 Chapter 357: Zhong Shan Will Kill Regardless

    <h4>Chapter 357: Zhong Shan Will Kill Regardless</h4>


    In the vast Zhou Tian World, I am but a mere speck!


    Entering the grand hall, Zhong Shan''s first reaction was to feel as though he had stepped into a colossal universe where he was nothing more than a tiny speck of dust. An inexplicable force seemed to press down on him,pelling him to bow and submit.


    The intense psychological pressure weighed heavily on Zhong Shan. His mind wavered momentarily, but a deep-seated resolve prevented him from kneeling. Kneel? No! Zhong Shan had transcended mortal limitations; no one could make him kneel. The suppressed fierceness of eighty years surged forth. With a sharp lift of his head, Zhong Shan regained his rity.


    Once he was fully conscious, Zhong Shan took in the full view of the grand hall. The previous feeling of being insignificant in the vast universe dissipated entirely.


    "Whoosh..."


    A collective gasp of disbelief echoed through the hall from the court officials.


    Upon entering the Taigu Sacred Hall, it was customary for all to prostrate themselves before the Emperor. This had been an unbroken tradition for countless years. In the history of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty, only a few individuals had ever refrained from kneeling, and it wasn''t because the Emperor demanded it, but because the sheer divine presence of the hallpelled them. One had to kneel to the sky embodied in the hall.


    However, as the officials turned their gaze towards Zhong Shan, they saw that not only had he not knelt, but he had also raised his head with a fierce determination. The officials were taken aback.


    Who was this Zhong Shan, possessing such formidable willpower?


    Having resisted the first wave of divine pressure, Zhong Shan was no longer affected. He now had a clear view of the Emperor seated on the Nine Dragons Celestial Throne.


    The Emperor of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty, Gu Shentong, was d in a regal purple-gold robe adorned with nine dragons, and wore a purple jade t-topped crown. His hands rested on the armrests beside him, exuding an overwhelming majesty that bore down on Zhong Shan. The Emperor''s face appeared to be that of a man in his forties, with a slightly protruding forehead. His eyes were like ck holes in the night sky, one nce seemingly capable of drawing Zhong Shan''s very soul into them.


    Zhong Shan dared not look further and immediately bowed respectfully, saying, "Your humble servant Zhong Shan pays his respects to Your Majesty. May Your Majesty enjoy eternal celestial fortune and longevity equal to the heavens!"


    Zhong Shan''s respectful bow was observed in silence by the surrounding officials.


    "A Yang-absolute, Yin-repelling constitution! No wonder you could withstand the divine pressure," Gu Shentong said calmly.


    The term "Yang-absolute, Yin-repelling constitution" rang familiar to Zhong Shan. The supreme emperor of the wolf n, Di Xuansha, had once dered that he would have no descendants, recognizing this trait at a nce. The Yang-absolute was true, but the Yin-repelling was not entirely urate, as Zhong Shan possessed an additional Yang-repelling body, the hidden body.


    "You may rise," Gu Shentong said.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," Zhong Shan said, straightening up.


    Zhong Shan then nced at the officials lined up on either side.


    To his right, the second in line was King Da Xuan. The first must undoubtedly be Crown Prince Zheng Yi.


    Prince Zheng Yi, the Crown Prince of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty, bore a slight resemnce to the Emperor. His eyebrows formed a ''��'' character, giving him an ordinary appearance that was paradoxically extraordinary due to its sheer ordinariness.


    The thirteenth official on the right was Marquis Qi Tian, whose smile did not reach his eyes. At the very end stood Minister Ma Zhui, whom Zhong Shan had met a few days ago.


    On the left side, Zhong Shan didn''t recognize anyone. However, he could roughly guess the identity of the man standing first in line. He was likely the Grand Tutor of the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty, Huan Tulong.


    Huan Tulong had a head of fiery red hair slicked back, and his eyes were sharp, resembling those of an eagle demon. A single nce from him felt like having a piece of flesh gouged out.


    "Report Zhong Shan''s achievements!" Gu Shentongmanded.


    "Yes!" An elderly eunuch by the Emperor''s side responded respectfully, immediately producing a scroll resembling an imperial decree and began to read aloud.


    "Zhong Shan, in the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty for eight thousand years, excelled in the imperial examinations with his essay ''Full River Red'', securing the top schr position. He went on to the front lines, assisting King Da Xuan in pacifying rebellions of two dynasties. Within four months,manding two hundred thousand troops of the Da Xuan Army without a single casualty, he captured the Unparalleled City. He was then titled the Eastern Marquis and summoned his family''s troops. Two yearster, with five hundred thousand troops, he swiftly conquered twelve cities of the Di Yu Emperor''s Dynasty along the coast within five months, a feat recognized for its immense merit.


    "Furthermore, during this time, he devised the ''Heaven Copse n'' specifically targeting the Di Yu Emperor''s Dynasty, overseeing the military strategy. Within four years, he copsed fouryers of the Di Yu Emperor''s Dynasty, leading to itsplete downfall across its territories. In addition, he personallymanded fifteen routes of troops to seize the Sky City.


    "Subsequently, he moved to the Da Guang Battlefield, where he captured four cities within two years without pause. Additionally, he assisted in breaking the Da Guang Emperor''s ''Silent Pce Rotating Hall'', enving countless wild wolves within three months and securing sixty-four cities of the Da Guang Emperor''s Dynasty. He then led twenty routes of troops to effortlessly capture the Aurora City with a single arrow and message, leading to theplete copse of the Da Guang Emperor''s Dynasty''s battlefield."


    Beside him, a eunuch recited each word without feeling, but those who listened were deeply moved. These achievements, staggering in their magnitude, were the kind that warranted ennoblement and titles.


    With each aplishment of Zhong Shan recounted, the court officials couldn''t help but nce at him. The ''Heaven Copse n'', a strategy that spread across the Divine Land like a gue, was devised by the Eastern Marquis himself?


    In the court, everyone was exceptional. Listening to these feats, all sighed in admiration. Another rising star was about to emerge in the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty.


    It could be said that it was Zhong Shan''s presence that elerated the Southern Battlefield''s swift resolution. Two colossal dynasties fell within less than fifteen years��a remarkably short time topletely conquer two empires, something almost inconceivable in the past.


    Grand Tutor Huan Tulong nced at Zhong Shan, squinting his eyes slightly before smiling faintly. Crown Prince Zheng Yi''s eyes brightened momentarily but soon returned to their usual calm. King Da Xuan remained impassive, having long known of Zhong Shan''s exploits.


    Marquis Qi Tian''s gaze towards Zhong Shan wasn''t particrly friendly. As for Minister Ma Zhui, positioned towards the back on the right side, his brow furrowed, his fists clenched, clearly struggling internally.


    "My esteemed ministers, how shall we reward Zhong Shan''s achievements?" Gu Shentong turned to the court officials.


    At Gu Shentong''s query, the court erupted into discussions, while Zhong Shan stood quietly to the side, patiently awaiting their decision.


    "Your Majesty," suddenly spoke Grand Tutor Huan Tulong.


    "Oh, Grand Tutor," Gu Shentong nodded in acknowledgment.


    "In our Daluo Heavenly Dynasty, rewards and punishments have always been clear and fair. Zhong Shan''s military achievements merit elevation to Marquis and Duke," Huan Tulong proposed.


    "Marquis and Duke?" As soon as Grand Tutor Huan Tulong spoke, the entire court buzzed with astonishment.


    "Marquis... and Duke? Isn''t that too extravagant? Zhong Shan''s contributions are immense, but Marquis and Duke... what does that even entail?"


    Zhong Shan nced unexpectedly at Huan Tulong.


    "And what of the others?" Gu Shentong turned to the rest.


    "I second that, Your Majesty!" Crown Prince Zheng Yi nodded.


    King Da Xuan frowned slightly at Crown Prince Zheng Yi, then turned to Gu Shentong and said, "Your Majesty, I believe that due to Zhong Shan''s outstanding military talent, he should be appointed to the Ministry of War. There''s currently a vacancy for Deputy Minister of War, a position suitable for him!"


    "Deputy Minister of War? Third-grade rank?" The court officials nced at each other in surprise. Zhong Shan''s promotion seemed unusually rapid.


    "We concur!" the officials chimed in.


    "We concur!"


    "We concur!"


    The court officials expressed their agreement one after another.


    "Your Majesty, I have a matter to report!" A discordant voice suddenly spoke up.


    Immediately, all the court officials who had been concurring stopped talking.


    From the rear right side, a figure stepped forward. It was Ma Zhuire, the Minister of Punishments.


    Seeing Ma Zhuire emerge, Marquis Qi Tian''s mouth curved into a slight smile.


    "Speak!" Gu Shentongmanded.


    "Yes, in the Daluo Heavenly Dynasty, rewards and punishments are clear-cut. Merits deserve rewards, and crimes must be punished. Today, I wish to expose evidence of a crimemitted by the Eastern Marquis, for discussion among my colleagues and for Your Majesty''s judgment," Ma Zhuire dered.


    "A crime?" Everyone in the court focused their attention on Ma Zhuire, then turned to look at Zhong Shan.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan maintained a calm demeanor, observing without reacting.


    "Under orders from the Ministry of Punishments to guard Princess Qian You''s residence, four days ago, two of her guards broke through the blockade and fled. The Ministry pursued and one of them sought refuge in the Eastern Marquis''s camp upon his return. The Eastern Marquis shielded the criminal, forced away Ministry officials. I went there to arrest the fugitive again, but the Eastern Marquis continued to shield him and evenmanded troops to attack us, injuring several officials with arrows. He intended to kill to silence us. This crime is unforgivable!" Ma Zhuire''s voice was hoarse and intense.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh


    Apologies, it seems there was an issue with the response. Let me continue from where we left off:


    "Wow~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    In the hall, there was once again an uproar. Shielding criminals and attempting to murder court-appointed officials��these charges were indeed serious. A slight misstep could turn all his previous merits to ashes. He might even face punishment himself.


    "Zhong Shan, is what Ma Zhuire said true?" Gu Shentong asked.


    "At present, it appears that what Minister Ma said is entirely true," Zhong Shan affirmed.


    The court officials all turned to Zhong Shan. Was he really admitting guilt so directly? No defense at all?


    On the side, the Eastern Marquis breathed a sigh of relief, his face showing a hint of excitement. Meanwhile, Ma Zhuire''s lips curved into a slight smile.


    "Bold, Zhong Shan, do you have anything else to say?" Gu Shentong asked.


    "Your Majesty, initially, I was unaware that Ah Da was a fugitive on the run. Upon learning this, I immediately sent people to return him to Princess Qian You''s residence in the Ancient Capital. I did not shield him nor would I. Furthermore, it was only today that I learned Minister Ma''s true identity. At that time, I only saw a group ofwless bandits daring to rob our army, so I gave them a small lesson," Zhong Shan exined calmly.


    "You''re talking nonsense! How could you not know who I was back then?" Ma Zhuire''s eyes widened.


    "Minister Ma, at that time, you didn''t provide any proof of your identity but attempted to forcibly seize someone from my army. How could Zhong Shan agree? Moreover, even if Minister Ma had proven his identity, in that situation, Zhong Shan would have executed without error!" Zhong Shan stared with intensity, pointing directly at Ma Zhuire.


    "In that situation, Zhong Shan would have executed without error!"


    "Wow~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Once again, the hall erupted into amotion. Zhong Shan would execute without error? Such domineering words, such audacious demeanor! In the court, showing no remorse and daring to be so brazen?


    Facing Zhong Shan''s piercing gaze and intense aura, Ma Zhuire couldn''t help but feel overwhelmed and involuntarily took a step back.

 Chapter 358: Pledging Military Merits, Granting the Holy Sword

    <h4>Chapter 358: Pledging Military Merits, Granting the Holy Sword</h4>


    "You... you... you dare!" Ma Zhuire''s face flushed red as he stared angrily.


    The court officials watched these two confront each other. From the current situation, Zhong Shan seemed truly audacious, daring to challenge the Heavenly Dynasty''sws in the court. Did he not value his life anymore?


    However, on the other hand, the court officials also became interested. Based on Zhong Shan''s previous military achievements, this person''s thinking was extremely meticulous. Would he reallymit such a basic mistake?


    "Whether I''m audacious or not, let me finish reporting to His Majesty first!" Zhong Shan replied coldly to Ma Zhuire.


    Turning his head, Zhong Shan looked at theposed Gu Shentong again. "Your Majesty, when the Tianbeng n wasunched, I requested five billion top-grade spirit stones from His Majesty to implement the n. His Majesty generously lent me six billion top-grade spirit stones and requested repayment of fifteen billion top-grade spirit stones. Initially, we seized several tens of billions of spirit stones in the early stages of operations against the Duyu Dynasty. However,ter, most were used to purchase Xumi Stones to continue the Tianbeng n, leaving us with only sixteen billion top-grade spirit stones. I took one billion as military pay, leaving fifteen billion, which I escorted with several different personal guards using storage bracelets. That money belongs to the court. Zhong Shan dared not act rashly and was extremely cautious, awaiting its return to the court. That day, Minister Ma led a group of strongmen straight into our military camp. At the time, they refused to identify themselves, charging directly at those guards transporting the spirit stones. In order to protect the court''s wealth and ensure the safety of those guards, I ordered a rain of arrows against these intruders."


    "Five billion? Six billion? Tens of billions? Sixteen billion?" The court officials sighed in amazement after listening. Their own sries were counted in thousands, yet Zhong Shan''s words were filled with billions. No wonder he was so nervous, and no wonder Ma Zhuire wanted to ''snatch'' it.


    "You''re ndering me! When did I want to snatch the spirit stones?" Ma Zhuire said angrily.


    "But the direction you charged towards was exactly where our military''s spirit stones were located. Zhong Shan naturally executed without error to protect the court''s wealth. Giving Minister Ma a minor lesson, but Minister Ma showed no gratitude! Instead, he uses me?" Zhong Shan stared fiercely, his eyes locking onto Ma Zhuire.


    "I am a court-appointed official. How could I do such a thing?" Ma Zhuire retorted angrily.


    Ma Zhuire had been led into Zhong Shan''s trap. A more discerning person would never have let the conversation turn to himself, nor would they mention the spirit stones. They should have used the criminal Ah Da, but Ma Zhuire was confused! Clinging to clear his name, he kept holding onto the spirit stones. The more he tried to wash his hands, the deeper he sank.


    "Exactly because you are a court-appointed official. If you were to rob the spirit stones, it would be even more terrifying, despicable, and detestable. Zhong Shan naturally executed without error. There will be nopromise!" Zhong Shan stared coldly at Ma Zhuire.


    Ma Zhuire felt helpless. Now, he couldn''t exin himself.


    After all themotion, Zhong Shan''s shielding of criminals and attempted murder of court-appointed officials had somehow turned into a round of apuse.


    "Minister Ma, step down!" the Emperormanded.


    "Yes!" Ma Zhuire immediately responded, trembling as he stepped aside.


    "Fifteen billion top-grade spirit stones? Good!" Gu Shentong nodded.


    "Your Majesty, I have something to report!" Zhong Shan suddenly stepped forward.


    "Speak!" Gu Shentong said.


    "Your Majesty, I am willing to pledge all my military merits to His Majesty and request one opportunity to speak for the deceased and seek justice for the living," Zhong Shan said with utmost sincerity.


    When Zhong Shan finished speaking, the court officials were once again in an uproar. The matter concerning Princess Qianyou had recently be a taboo; no one dared to ask about it, and mentioning it would anger the Emperor and the royal family. No one could speak up.


    Zhong Shan actually used all his merits as coteral just to obtain an opportunity to thoroughly investigate?


    Qitian Hou red angrily from the side, Da Xuan Wang frowned slightly, while Zheng Yi Wang remainedposed.


    "Is it worth it?" Gu Shentong asked calmly.


    "Princess Qianyou has shown kindness to me. In the past, when facing the pursuit of the Great Yu Dynasty''s Ju Lu Wang, she even risked her life to save Zhong Shan. Without the princess, Zhong Shan would not be standing here today." Zhong Shan responded, deviating from the question.


    Although he did not answer directly, it further demonstrated Zhong Shan''s determination.


    All eyes of the officials turned to the Emperor because there had been previous mentions of this matter, but each time, the Emperor had red in anger. Now, no one dared to bring it up again.


    What would be the Emperor''s decision?


    Zhong Shan looked at the Emperor, Qitian Hou looked at the Emperor, and Huantu Long looked at the Emperor. Even the two princes were watching the Emperor.


    "Very well! I will grant you the opportunity. Pledging military merits, within one month, I lend you the Holy Sword and appoint you as a special envoy, coborating with the Ministry of Punishments to handle this case. One monthter, in the Ancient Holy Temple, provide me with answers and provide the world with answers!" the Emperor suddenly changed his tone.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Zhong Shan immediately bowed.


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live! Long live!" All the court officials immediately bowed in unison.


    Although Gu Shentong only issued onemand, thismand overturned the previous orders. Thus, the entire court was solemn, shocked, and worshipful!


    At this moment, a eunuch carried a tray and presented a dark purple long sword to Zhong Shan. The long sword was wrapped in an exquisite scabbard, though the hilt was very ordinary.


    The Holy Sword, the Emperor''s personal sword! A ninth-grade spiritual treasure!


    Zhong Shan respectfully epted it! Gripping it in his hand, it seemed ordinary, but Zhong Shan knew its formidable power and the significance it represented. As the Imperial Envoy, anywhere in the Ancient Holy Capital, except where the Emperor resides, he had unrestricted ess!


    "Dismissed!" the Emperor ordered.


    "Dismissed~~~~~" the chief eunuch beside him shouted hoarsely.


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live! Long live!" The court officials bowed again.


    The Emperor rose and disappeared from the people''s sight with a step.


    Only then did the court officials begin to move, continuously leaving the Ancient Holy Temple. No one spoke much to Zhong Shan. Neither did the two princes nor Huantu Long. They all left, leaving only Qitian Hou until the end.


    "Zhong Shan!" Qitian Hou stared at Zhong Shan.


    "Qitian Hou? What advice do you have?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I know you want to clear Qianyou''s name, but Qianyou killed my own sister. The hatred from killing a sister is unforgettable! You''d better not wade into this muddy water, otherwise, you''ll bear the consequences!" Qitian Hou stared at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan raised the Holy Sword and said, "Qitian Hou, you can threaten me, or find someone to threaten me. But remember, my appointment was approved by the Emperor. You can remain silent, but every word you say will be recorded and will be evidence in the future!"


    "You..." Qitian Hou red.


    "Hmph~~~~~" Zhong Shanpletely ignored Qitian Hou, turned around, and strode out of the Ancient Holy Temple.


    Qitian Hou''s face should have been red with anger, but the moment Zhong Shan stepped out of the Ancient Holy Temple, a sneer of disdain appeared at the corner of his mouth.


    Below the Ancient Mountain, outside the Imperial City, Zhihuo Wolf General patiently awaited.


    "General!" Zhihuo called out immediately.


    "Hold on. During this time, you''ll stay by my side. Be vignt against anyone who might attempt an assassination. This is the Holy Sword. If anyone dares to strike, kill without hesitation," Zhong Shan handed the Holy Sword to Zhihuo.


    "Yes!" Zhihuo responded promptly, looking at the Holy Sword in his hands with curiosity.


    The Holy Sword, a ninth-grade spiritual treasure! This was the first time Zhihuo had held such an advanced item. He was filled with curiosity.


    "Let''s go. To Princess Qianyou''s residence!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" Zhihuo immediately replied.


    Soon, the two hurried towards Princess Qianyou''s mansion.


    At this moment, near the pce, dialogue from the court had already spread out from a nearby tavern.


    Dongfang Marquis Zhong Shan��this name quickly became remembered by countless people, deeply etched into their minds. Remembered once, and then again.


    The top schr of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty? Few remembered. Who was the militarymander robbed by small-timers a few days ago in jest? No one paid much attention, at most considering it a joke.


    But this moment''s Zhong Shan made people start seriously remembering, and they began to dig into this person''s legends��not just any legends, but exceedingly legendary ones.


    With one person''s wisdom, overturning two major dynasties within fifteen years? This, this is impossible?


    What? With one article, summoning heavenly retribution, making heaven and earth intolerant? Impossible.


    What? Fifteen billion spirit stones? Hundreds of billions of spirit stones, how could he possibly have so many spirit stones? If I had them, I wouldn''t need to do anything else in the future, just cultivate. I could even entice many daopanions to cultivate together.


    The East Sea Dragon Pce expelled the Dragon n to fight for him? Is that possible?


    What? What is the Heavenly Copse n? Heavenly Copse First Layer? Heavenly Copse Second Layer? Heavenly Copse Third Layer? Heavenly Copse Fourth Layer? What are those?


    Fengshui Great Array? Youyou Mansion''s Rotating Hall? What are those?


    Disregarding the titles of Duke and promoting to Third Rank Assistant Minister of Personnel, arge number of merits, and he just wants to be a constable for a month? Has he gone mad? Is this real or fake?


    Zhong Shan''s story began to slowly spread throughout the Ancient Holy Capital.


    This was just the beginning, merely the initial spark. Next, themon people would surely ''discover'' evidence of Zhong Shan''s legends, undoubtedly not fabricated!


    Under the banner of the Great Rong Chamber of Commerce, the Yui Inn officially began promoting Zhong Shan, creating the most legendary momentum for Zhong Shan!


    Everything proceeded in an orderly manner, and Zhong Shan himself, apanied by Zhihuo, arrived outside Princess Qianyou''s mansion!

 Chapter 359: Investigating the Case

    <h4>Chapter 359: Investigating the Case</h4>


    Standing in front of Princess Qianyou''s mansion, Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    Arge number of guards from the Ministry of Justice stood before the mansion, each armed with swords. They surrounded the perimeter.


    "Who goes there?" shouted a ck-d official from the Ministry of Justice.


    "By decree of His Majesty, I am here to investigate the case of Princess Qianyou, with the Holy Sword as evidence!" Zhongshan dered.


    Immediately, he revealed the Holy Sword, its brilliance shining forth.


    The official frowned and extended his spiritual sense towards the sword.


    "Ahhh!" Suddenly, the official cried out in agony, clutching his head.


    "My lord!" Immediately, a multitude of subordinates rushed over, drawing their swords, ready to apprehend whoever dared to attack their superior.


    "Hold!" The official shouted, still clutching his head.


    "Huh?" The subordinates looked puzzled.


    "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live ten thousand years!" The official bowed deeply, showing utmost respect.


    With his lead, the others quickly understood and echoed, "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live ten thousand years!"


    Ignoring them, Zhongshan strode forward with Zhuhuo towards Princess Qianyou''s mansion.


    Upon entering the mansion, Zhongshan took another deep breath.


    The atmosphere within Princess Qianyou''s mansion was deste and empty, devoid of any servants.


    Extending his spiritual sense, Zhongshan sensed only Ah Da and Ah Er waiting outside a distant pce.


    "Princess, Master has arrived, Princess...," Ah Da eximed excitedly.


    "Princess, it''s really Master!" Ah Er echoed the excitement.


    "Dong, dong, dong..." Footsteps echoed from the pce, and Princess Qianyou swiftly ran to the door, eyes filled with anticipation and excitement.


    Zhongshan hurried towards her with Zhuhuo.


    "I knew Master woulde," Ah Da said, clenching his fists in excitement.


    Ah Er also looked excitedly at Zhongshan.


    But Princess Qianyou remained silent, showing only a faint smile of relief and peace.


    "Princess, I''m back!" Zhongshan stared at Princess Qianyou.


    "I knew you woulde," Princess Qianyou said with a smile of contentment.


    Ah Da, Ah Er, and Zhuhuo tactfully left the main hall. Their presence was no longer needed here.


    Seeing the haggard face, emaciated figure, and sorrowful smile of Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan couldn''t help but feel a pang in his heart. In that moment, Zhongshan realized that amidst his resolute determination, Princess Qianyou had already secured a ce in his heart. It was a feeling he hadn''t fully acknowledged until now.


    With rity in his heart, Zhongshan no longer hesitated. Gently, he reached out and touched Princess Qianyou''s cheek.


    "You''ve lost so much weight," Zhongshan whispered softly.


    As Zhongshan reached out, Princess Qianyou didn''t shy away. In fact, she seemed to anticipate it, waiting for that warm hand to touch her cheek. The previous content smile turned into one of excitement, and tears welled up in her eyes the moment Zhongshan uttered, "You''ve lost so much weight."


    "Pu~~~" Princess Qianyou threw herself into Zhongshan''s arms, tears flowing like a river.


    In that embrace, Zhongshan felt a love deep within his heart, and Princess Qianyou felt the same in hers. It wasn''t something that happened today, but something they had both felt days before.


    Only through setbacks could one reflect, and only through sadness could one understand true emotions!


    Whimpering at the moment of death, imprisoned within her own familial n like the ancient Shi family, Princess Qianyou felt the world turn its back on her. Those who once fawned over her now showed indifference; even the Emperor was vexed and distant. Her own father, too, had grown distant.


    The world seemed cold and distant, as if everyone had abandoned her. It felt like standing alone in an empty forest, a terrifying silence and overwhelming loneliness. Intense sadness and heartache filled her mind. In that moment, her only thought was of Zhongshan��Zhongshan, whom she could trust absolutely, who treated her better than her own n. She longed for Zhongshan to appear before her immediately, to be enveloped in his embrace, shielded from the storms of the outside world. It was then that Princess Qianyou realized just how deeply she loved Zhongshan��a yearning akin to a rushing river.


    And then, as if by magic, Zhongshan appeared, embracing Princess Qianyou tightly, just as she had imagined.


    No words were spoken, just the tight embrace.


    In that moment, Princess Qianyou rxedpletely, a satisfied smile gracing her face. The strong, independent woman of the past had disappeared; now, she was simply a fragile woman in Zhongshan''s arms, a woman protected. She didn''t think about anything else; she no longer feared the winds that blew outside, for she had found this safe harbor, the warmest refuge in the world.


    Zhongshan, too, felt a profound warmth in his heart as he held Princess Qianyou. With one hand around her, the other gently stroked her long hair. In no time at all, Princess Qianyou fell asleep in Zhongshan''s arms.


    A grandmaster of the highest realm, crying herself to sleep?


    Zhongshan chuckled affectionately, lifted Princess Qianyou, and carried her into the main hall. He gentlyid her on a jade couch, covering her with a silk quilt.


    Watching Princess Qianyou sleep peacefully, a smile on her face, Zhongshan absentmindedly brushed her hair.


    It was clear how much pressure and injustice Princess Qianyou had endured in these days. She was worn down, anxious, and tense. Only with Zhongshan''s appearance did she finally rx and fall into an exhausted sleep.


    Princess Qianyou was too tired; this sleep was likely tost all day.


    When Princess Qianyou woke up, she found Zhongshan sitting by her side, lost in thought, yet holding her hand firmly, never letting go.


    Feeling the warmth of Zhongshan''s hand, Princess Qianyou blushed. Perhaps her waking had startled Zhongshan.


    "Awake?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Mm-hmm," Princess Qianyou nodded shyly.


    This was the first time Zhongshan had seen Princess Qianyou like this. The calm,posed demeanor she once had was now gone.


    "Well, it''s been a day of our month''s time. Shall we discuss the case?" Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    "A month?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Yes, His Majesty has granted me a month to thoroughly investigate your case," Zhongshan said.


    "The case seems clear-cut, but no one in the court wants to wade into this murky water. Even His Majesty, who used to favor me, is angry and forbids anyone from mentioning it," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Heh, no, from what I see, the one most concerned about you in the court is His Majesty himself," Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    "His Majesty?" Princess Qianyou looked puzzled.


    "Yes, this case is incrediblyplex. With irrefutable evidence, not just anyone can clear your name. If this investigation fails to absolve you, you''ll be in an even worse position. His Majesty is protecting you; that''s why he agreed to my request and entrusted me with the Holy Sword for a thorough investigation," Zhongshan exined.


    "What did you use to silence all the courtiers?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Just a passing cloud," Zhongshan chuckled.


    "What passing cloud?" Princess Qianyou inquired.


    "My military achievements," Zhongshan replied.


    Princess Qianyou didn''t say much in gratitude or make any vows. She simply uttered a soft "Hmm," her gaze towards Zhongshan filled with determination. It was as if she had made a decision deep within her heart. There was a hint of infatuation in her eyes.


    "Tell me then, what exactly happened? I need a detailed ount of the events. What happened at that time, not a single detail omitted!" Zhongshan said.


    "That day...," ����


    One month before Zhongshan returned to court.


    In Yining County Princess''s Mansion, to celebrate, Yining hosted a banquet in arge courtyard, inviting numerous court officials she knew. Among them were Princess Qianyou, Marquis Qitian, and Marquis Mazhui.


    "Congrattions, Princess, on being promised discipleship by Elder Tian," Marquis Mazhui raised his cup andughed.


    "Uncle, stop teasing. It hasn''t been formalized yet!" Yiningughed and finished her drink.


    "Soon, Elder Tian''s word is as good as gold. Once epted as Elder Tian''s disciple, His Majesty will certainly elevate you to princess status. We''ll soon be calling you Princess Yining," Marquis Mazhui chuckled.


    "Princess Qianyou, Elder Tian chose between you and Yining, and Yining was ultimately chosen. You''re not jealous, are you?" Marquis Qitian suddenly turned to Princess Qianyou.


    Boldly questioned by Marquis Qitian, everyone fell silent.


    "How could I? I congratte Yining!" Princess Qianyou graciously replied, raising her cup to Yining.


    "Thank you, Sister Qianyou!" Yining immediately happily drank another cup.


    The banquet proceeded lively. As conversations flowed, midway through the banquet, Yining suddenly took Princess Qianyou''s hand.


    "Sister Qianyou,e with me," Yining said.


    Princess Qianyou followed without hesitation, setting down her cup. They left the banquet and wound their way through Yining''s mansion until they reached a small courtyard in a remote corner. There wasn''t a soul around.


    "Why did you bring me here?" Princess Qianyou asked, puzzled.


    "I heard that you possess the ''Xun Ding physique.'' Is it true?" Yining widened her eyes inquisitively.


    "Who told you that? How could that be?" Princess Qianyou furrowed her brows but then smiled.


    "Someone told me. Sister Qianyou, don''t deny it. I''ve long heard of the miraculous nature of the Nine Ding physique. Please show it to me," Yining said eagerly.


    "Show it? How would I show it?" Princess Qianyou raised an eyebrow.


    "With this," Yining said immediately, pulling out a package from a corner of the courtyard. From it, she withdrew a jade-green longbow adorned with numerous totems.


    "The Wind God Bow?" Princess Qianyou eximed in surprise.

 Chapter 360: Wind God Bow, Wind God Arrow

    <h4>Chapter 360: Wind God Bow, Wind God Arrow</h4>


    "Sister, you''ve got sharp eyes!" Yingning chuckled.


    "The Wind God Bow originally belonged to my birth father. After he fell in battle and disappeared, its whereabouts were unknown. How did it end up in your hands? And where is the Wind God Arrow?" Princess Qianyou narrowed her eyes.


    "I didn''t get the Wind God Arrow, only this Wind God Bow. But now, it''s not your father''s anymore, it''s mine," Yingning smiled.


    With that, Yingning pulled the bowstring of the Wind God Bow. As she did, a strong wind gathered, quickly forming a wind arrow on the bow. It was entirelyposed of wind.


    Yingning rxed her grip, and the wind arrow shot towards arge rockery not far away.


    "Boom~~~" The giant rock exploded into powder.


    Just pulling the string caused this? Wind forming into an arrow?


    Princess Qianyou squinted, while Yingning looked excited. She pulled the bowstring again, and once more, a strong wind gathered into an arrow.


    This time, Yingning aimed the arrow at Princess Qianyou.


    "Yingning, what are you doing?" Princess Qianyou''s face darkened.


    "It''s rumored that the body of Xun Ding is most adept in wind magic, even able to resist most wind spells. This Wind God Bow won''t harm you. Today, I just want to see for myself," Yingning smirked.


    "You scoundrel!" Princess Qianyou''s eyes shed with anger as she lunged towards Yingning.


    "Shoo~~~" The wind arrow pierced directly into Princess Qianyou''s face. She widened her eyes.


    "Bang~~~" The wind arrow suddenly dissipated, bing invisible.


    "Snap~~~" Princess Qianyou pped Yingning away and snatched the Wind God Bow.


    Yingning staggered back, clutching her chest, but Princess Qianyou hadn''t used her full strength, merely pushing Yingning away without injuring her.


    "Sister, you truly are the body of Xun Ding!" Yingning eximed with excitement, seemingly oblivious to the gravity of her earlier actions.


    "The Wind God Bow..." Princess Qianyou began.


    "Shoo~~~" Mid-sentence, a green arrow shot through Yingning''s chest from behind.


    Both women froze. Princess Qianyou stared nkly at the green arrow lodged in Yingning''s chest, while Yingning wore an expression of disbelief, looking down at herself where the arrow had pierced through, fatally breaking her Purple Mansion.


    Yingning couldn''t believe it. She turned, looking towards the distant pavilions, her eyes filled with disbelief and denial. Was this how she died? Dead?


    "Someone! Princess Yingning is dying~~~" Suddenly, a cry for help echoed from a nearby building. Immediately, Ma Zhuirui rushed over, embracing Yingning, but it was toote. Yingning, with a trace of regret, had already passed.


    Dead! Princess Yingning was dead? Ma Zhuirui''s earlier shout had attracted numerous officials who hade to see the scene in the courtyard, where a giant rockery had been sted to pieces. They were already puzzled, but Ma Zhuirui had rushed over to investigate.


    In the courtyard were only two people: Princess Qianyou and Princess Yingning. Yingning had her back to Princess Qianyou,pletely unguarded, and an arrow had pierced through her Purple Mansion, killing her instantly.


    Who shot the arrow? There were only two in the courtyard: Princess Qianyou, holding a strong bow, directly facing Yingning''s back. It was Princess Qianyou who shot the arrow! It could only be her!


    "Wind God Arrow?" Ma Zhuirui recognized the arrow that had pierced Yingning''s body as he held her.


    At that moment, Qitian Hou flew over from nearby and snatched Yingning''s body from Ma Zhuirui''s grasp.


    "Wind God Arrow? Wind God Bow? Qianyou, you have a heart as cruel as it gets. It''s not Yingning''s fault for not being chosen by the heavens. Did you really shoot her out of jealousy? You''re terrifying!" Qitian Hou red at Princess Qianyou, his eyes red with fury.


    "Guards, seize Princess Qianyou!" Ma Zhuirui shouted.


    Inside Princess Qianyou''s mansion, she brooded with resentment.


    "Did you investigate where the arrow came from?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "When Yingning was shot, I was shocked stiff. It was only after a moment that I used my spiritual sense to investigate the surrounding pavilions, but in that short time, the assant had vanished. No, they likely blended into the crowd!" Princess Qianyou exined.


    "Pre-meditated, wless execution. To outsiders, you appear undoubtedly guilty," Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yes," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    "If your guilt is established, what would be the consequence?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Stripped of my princess title, demoted tomoner, perhaps even stripped of cultivation, banished from the Great Luo Celestial Empire, never to return," Princess Qianyou sighed.


    "Don''t worry, I will clear your name," Zhongshan assured her solemnly.


    Princess Qianyou shook her head. "Apart from the emperor, there''s nothing left in the Great Luo Celestial Empire worth staying for. Even my father... Heh, my father... In the past, how much did I do for him, recruiting talent, solving difficult problems, and in the end, he... heh, the title of princess means nothing to me now. What matters is your safety."


    "Rest assured, with me here, no one can falsely use you! No one!" Zhongshan asserted.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s determination, Princess Qianyou smiled contentedly.


    "I have only a month. It''s been a day already. I''ll go investigate the scene now ande see you in a few days!" Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Outside the princess''s mansion, Zhongshan headed straight to the Ministry of Punishments!


    In a grand hall within the Ministry of Punishments, Ma Zhuirui greeted Zhongshan.


    "Lord Ma, I want to know: on the day of the incident at Princess Yingning''s mansion, who exactly was present? I need every detail," Zhongshan requested.


    "Who? Are you trying to find a scapegoat among this group?" Ma Zhuirui retorted coldly.


    "Heh, scapegoat? I''m looking for the real killer. Lord Ma, you were the first to arrive at the scene of the incident and called arge number of guests toe to the scene, weren''t you?" Zhongshan pointed out.


    "And what if I was? Princess Qianyou killed Yingning, she''s the murderer," Ma Zhuirui stated.


    "Hmph, until the case is clear, everyone in the princess''s mansion that day is a suspect, especially you, Lord Ma," Zhongshan used sharply.


    "Zhongshan, are you using me without evidence?" Ma Zhuirui was furious.


    "At the moment Yingning was shot, no one else noticed it. Why did you? Perhaps you shot Princess Yingning yourself and framed Princess Qianyou," Zhongshan suggested.


    "You... Yingning is my niece. How could I kill her? I was the first to arrive because of a loud noise in the courtyard that I went to investigate. I just happened to see Princess Qianyou shoot Yingning," Ma Zhuirui replied urgently.


    "Why you, specifically?" Zhongshan demanded.


    "Me? Zhongshan, are you trying to frame me? Is it because of court matters, holding a grudge and trying to pin the me on me?" Ma Zhuirui''s face turned red with urgency.


    "Frame you? Hmph, you''re not worthy. I know you keep records here. Go fetch me all the information on everyone present at the princess''s mansion that day," Zhongshan coldly ordered, then sat down in a high-backed chair. He held the Sacred Sword, zing with fire, standing beside him.


    "You''re not worthy?" Ma Zhuirui heard the humiliating words. Normally, he would be furious, but now, he merely red at Zhongshan and hurried fearfully to gather the documents.


    Ma Zhuirui found that Zhongshan seemed like his nemesis, someone he dared not linger around for even a moment. Indeed, Ma Zhuirui was unworthy��this type of person feared sullying their intellect even when being framed. At the same time, Zhongshan knew Ma Zhuirui wasn''t the culprit because hecked the courage and audacity. Zhongshan''s harsh words were meant to provoke him intopliance.


    Soon enough, Ma Zhuirui returned with a stack of documents, wearing a stony expression.


    Taking the documents, Zhongshan began examining them carefully. Time was short; he needed to make selections quickly.


    Including the servants, there were a total of two hundred and thirty-four people at the princess''s mansion that day. The documents detailed everyone from Qitian Hou and various courtiers attending the banquet down to the kitchen staff and maids. Each person''s personal history, current residence, and whereabouts during the incident were meticulously recorded.


    "What about the Wind God Arrow and Wind God Bow?" Zhongshan inquired.


    "They are being held at the Ministry of Punishments, awaiting the princess''s guilt to be determined before they are handed over to the emperor," Ma Zhuirui replied.


    "Bring them to me," Zhongshan ordered.


    "They are crucial pieces of evidence!" Ma Zhuirui protested.


    "Exactly why they are needed for the investigation. The emperor has tasked me with this case, and I have the authority to manage anything relevant to it. Bring them here!" Zhongshan ordered decisively.


    Ma Zhuirui hesitated to argue further but seeing Zhongshan''s unwavering gaze, he swallowed his anger and went to retrieve the Wind God Arrow and Bow.


    In that grand hall of the Ministry of Punishments, Zhongshan swiftly sifted through the documents on his desk. Time was of the essence!


    Firstly, he eliminated those who had others present with them during the incident. Zhongshan''s analytical skills were unparalleled. By the time Ma Zhuirui reluctantly brought the Wind God Bow and Arrow, Zhongshan had already narrowed down the suspects from the documents to fifty individuals, having removed a hundred and eighty-four.


    "Here is the Wind God Bow and Wind God Arrow," Ma Zhuirui presented the bow and arrow.


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 361: Calculating Killer

    <h4>Chapter 361: Calcting Killer</h4>


    "The Wind God Bow and Wind God Arrow?" Zhongshan gently received them and examined closely.


    The Wind God Bow and Arrow formed a set, both shimmering with emerald hues and adorned with numerous runes that were crystal clear. Zhongshan held them up to the light; they were impably clean, not even a fingerprint marred their surfaces!


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan attempted to store them in his storage bracelet, but they didn''t fit. Ninth-grade magical treasures? Such extravagant expenditure��who would go to such lengths to kill Yinging and frame Qianyou?


    "Zhihuo, take care of these," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Yes!" Zhihuo eagerly epted them.


    Another ninth-grade magical treasure; Zhihuo hadn''t seen so many before, now having one in each hand. He was genuinely excited.


    "All right, thank you for your assistance, General Ma. Zhihuo, let''s go!" Zhongshan said, storing the documents into his storage bracelet.


    "No need for pleasantries!" Ma Zhuirui grumbled resentfully.


    Zhongshan departed the Ministry of Punishments with Zhihuo.


    "General, where to next?" Zhihuo inquired.


    "Yinging''s mansion, the scene of the crime!" Zhongshan dered.


    "Understood!" Zhihuo nodded promptly��


    Yinging''s mansion! The entire mansion was still immersed in profound sorrow despite more than a month having passed. Everyone entering and leaving wore mourning clothes.


    "Halt!" shouted the guards at the gate.


    Zhihuo stepped forward, brandishing the Sacred Sword. Simr to in front of Qianyou''s mansion, a guard screamed in agony after clutching his head, leading everyone to bow in homage.


    "Long live the Emperor!" they chanted.


    Zhongshan and Zhihuo entered unhindered.


    Inside, cries of mourning could still be heard. Zhongshan led Zhihuo to a distant grand hall where he could see it was the spirit hall.


    Approaching the entrance, Zhongshan saw Qitian Hou sitting before arge coffin, burning joss paper. His face was filled with grief, having lost his younger sister, with whom he shared a special bond. It was a profound loss, and beside him stood a line of people, among whom Zhongshan recognized only one: Fan Yipin, the Chief Counselor of Daxuan Wang.


    Zhongshan nodded lightly to Fan Yipin and proceeded forward.


    "Yinging, separated by life and death, I can no longer assist you. I cannot offer spirit stones, but here is the money for the underworld, with your birth and death dates. The chief ghosts may not favor you, but it should make things easier," Qitian Hou murmured sadly.


    Zhongshan frowned, but at that moment, Qitian Hou seemed to sense his presence and turned.


    "What are you here for?" Qitian Hou immediately stood up, frowning.


    "The deceased is paramount. Zhihuo, let''s bow in respect together," Zhongshan ignored Qitian Hou''s question and instructed Zhihuo.


    "Yes!" Zhihuo nodded.


    Approaching, they both bowed respectfully toward the coffin in the spirit hall.


    Qitian Hou continued to re.


    After bowing, Zhongshan spoke up, "By the decree of the Emperor, we are to thoroughly investigate the cause of Yinging''s death. I need to examine her body."


    "Zhongshan, how dare you!" Qitian Hou eximed angrily.


    With his outburst, everyone behind him red fiercely at Zhongshan. Fan Yipin stood silently on the side, observing withoutment.


    "The Sacred Sword is here; who dares to act recklessly~~~" Zhongshan''s voice thundered.


    At Zhongshan''s furious shout, the crowd felt a wave of pressure, but they still stared defiantly at Zhongshan.


    "This is my sister''s body, and no one can touch her! Zhongshan, if you dare to move my sister''s corpse today, you will be an enemy of the Gu family. Even if my Gu family members die, they are not to be trifled with," Qitian Hou dered, his eyes narrowing.


    "I only said I wanted to see, not to touch. Anyone who dares to stop me again, don''t me me for being impolite!" Zhongshan replied.


    Turning his head, Zhongshan addressed Zhihuo, "Zhihuo, if anyone obstructs again, wield the Sacred Sword and cut them down~~~!"


    "Yes!" Zhihuo promptly acknowledged.


    Having said that, Zhongshan gave amanding nce at everyone present.


    Before the Sacred Sword, everyone could only suppress their anger. Even Qitian Hou at this moment could only re at Zhongshan as if he wanted to devour him alive.


    Approaching the coffin, Yinging''s coffin was made from ''Ten Thousand Years Purple Wood with Yin Roots'', capable of preserving the body for ten years without decay. Even when decay began, it would proceed slowly. The coffin lid was open, allowing Zhongshan to see Yinging''s body clearly inside.


    Yinging''s body had been dressed in beautiful clothes, cleaned andid peacefully in the coffin. Despite her extremely paleplexion, she appeared almost as if asleep, serene and tranquil.


    Using his divine sense, Zhongshan confirmed that Yinging was indeed dead. Her Purple Mansion was shattered, vitality lost, and deathly aura prevailed.


    "Who has touched Yinging''s face?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Touched? Who would dare?" Qitian Hou frowned back.


    "I heard that when Yinging died, her expression was one of disbelief. Who made her look so peaceful?" Zhongshan continued to frown.


    "Hmph, disbelief? Surprise? That''s because Yinging couldn''t believe Qianyou would strike. Surprise that her trusted sister would suddenly kill her. Who would have expected it? Yinging, of course, couldn''t believe it. Her expression was adjusted by me. Yinging liked to look beautiful. Even in death, she must be beautiful," Qitian Hou retorted coldly.


    Zhongshan raised an eyebrow but said nothing more. He turned and, with Zhihuo, walked back. Before Yinging''s coffin, he bowed once more.


    "Apologies for the disturbance. I wish to go to the scene of the crime," Zhongshan said.


    "Hmph!" Qitian Hou snorted.


    "I''ll apany Lord Dongfang," Fan Yipin interjected.


    "Thank you," Zhongshan replied.


    Throughout, Qitian Hou remained indifferent.


    Fan Yipin led Zhongshan slowly towards the rear courtyard of the princess''s mansion.


    "How does Mr. Fan see this case?" Zhongshan asked as they walked.


    "What can I see? This is the Emperor''s family affair. We servants shouldn''t interfere," Fan Yipin smiled faintly.


    "Mm," Zhongshan nodded, not pressing further.


    After a while, they arrived at the scene of the crime. Just as Princess Qianyou had mentioned, there were no clues here, only aplex array of pavilions in the distance.


    Zhongshan found nothing in the courtyard, so he moved to the pavilions. There were too many, and they were forbidden areas of the princess''s mansion, making it easy for the culprit to evade detection.


    "No leads!" Zhongshan furrowed his brow.


    "Dongfang Hou, do you want to continue searching?" Fan Yipin smiled.


    "No need. Thank you, Mr. Fan," Zhongshan nodded.


    "Don''t mention it!" Fan Yipin smiled.


    "Excuse us for the interruption, we''ll take our leave!" Zhongshan bid farewell.


    Fan Yipin nodded with a smile.


    Zhongshan, apanied by Zhihuo, slowly walked out of Princess Yinging''s mansion. During this time, two pairs of eyes had been watching them closely. One belonged to Fan Yipin, who observed Zhongshan''s departing figure with a slight furrow of his wise eyes, hinting at a sense of anticipation. The other pair of eyes belonged to Qitian Hou, who watched coldly, his face inadvertently revealing a trace of a sneer.


    At the scene of the crime, there were no clues whatsoever. It seemed like all traces had been meticulously wiped clean.


    The saying goes, "If you don''t want anyone to know, don''t do it." Meaning, in any case, it''s impossible to leave behind absolutely no clues. Yet even Zhongshan, known for his meticulousness in investigating cases, couldn''t find a single lead. Even the area where the pavilions were located, which the culprit had apparently cleaned of dust and then deliberately covered with a newyer, had been carefully orchestrated. The perpetrator''s thinking was too meticulous, even considering the dust content in the air.


    The case was baffling!


    Zhongshan''s investigation had drawn considerable attention. At least among the ministers of the court, many were closely monitoring Zhongshan''s whereabouts and movements. Detailed reports on where Zhongshan had been and what he had done were promptly delivered to the hands of the ministers. However, in the next ten days, Lord Dongfang Zhongshan suddenly disappeared.


    At Qitian Hou''s residence.


    "Uncle, still no news of Zhongshan?" Qitian Hou asked Ma Zhuiruo.


    "No, Zhongshan and Zhihuo seem to have disappeared in the Ancient Capital, gone! Could it be...?" Ma Zhuiruo frowned.


    "Could it be what?" Qitian Hou looked at Ma Zhuiruo.


    "Could it be that they fled with the Sacred Sword and the Wind God Bow and Arrow?" Ma Zhuiruo spected.


    Indeed, two Ninth Grade treasures were enough to drive countless people crazy. Did they escape with these treasures?


    "Impossible! Continue searching!" Qitian Hou asserted decisively.


    Ten days passed, enough time to create a legend.


    During these ten days, the legend of Zhongshan spread wildly throughout the Ancient Capital.


    "Can writing move heaven and earth? Hah, you''re outdated. What can move heaven and earth? Do you know that writing can stir up the heavens and earth, make the natural order intolerant, and invoke thunder and lightning?"


    "Two hundred thousand people, without any injuries or deaths, took down the unparalleled city of Wushuang at the border, ughtered six to seven hundred thousand enemies, and captured tens of thousands. Who could achieve such a feat?"


    "The Heaven Copse n? Don''t tell me you don''t even know about the Heaven Copse n. It''s because of the Heaven Copse n that all the royal capitals are afraid, stocking up various resources to prevent price fluctuations. Who nned it? Zhongshan, Dongfang Hou Zhongshan. With just a few economic tricks, he brought down the mighty Dayu Empire. Gone!"


    "Spirit stones? What? How many spirit stones does the richest man in your city have? Haha, don''t embarrass yourself. Dongfang Hou spent several hundred billion in the market in just a few months, even up to trillions, all high-grade spirit stones. That''s nearly tens of trillions of low-grade spirit stones. Your top ten richest menbined can''t match him."


    "The Yufu Rotating Hall, an underworld array set up by a Feng Shui expert, was sent by the court''s Feng Shui master to break it, but they still couldn''t. It was solved by Dongfang Hou."


    "Who is Dongfang Hou Zhongshan? Get lost, you ignorant wild person, don''t talk to me!"


    "Princess Qianyou? The one who killed her own sister? Haha, even the royal family has scum like her, and this is the fate they deserve, spit!"


    "What did you say? Dongfang Hou? Are you talking about Dongfang Hou? He used all his military achievements to get the opportunity to thoroughly investigate this case? How is that possible? At that time, all the evidence pointed directly to Princess Qianyou."


    "Dongfang Hou said that what you see with your own eyes may not necessarily be true."


    "All his military achievements, that''s enough to promote to Duke, to be a Ministry of War Assistant Minister. Dongfang Hou actually yed such a childish trick. No, Dongfang Hou is so clever, so powerful a figure, how could he do such a stupid thing? Could it be that he already has evidence that someone framed Princess Qianyou? It must be."


    In the heart of the Ancient Capital, Zhongshan''s legend spread wildly, and because of Zhongshan, those who had originally scorned Princess Qianyou began to think deeply. At least they were no longer so subjective in their outright denial.

 Chapter 363: Zhongshan鈥檚 True Advantage

    <h4>Chapter 363: Zhongshan''s True Advantage</h4>


    "Whether the Water Mirror is effective or not, and whether he is Qitian Hou, I can only do my best with the meager information provided by Mr. Water Mirror," Mr. Shuijing said.


    "No, Mr. Shuijing, the information you''ve provided is very valuable. Now, I am almost certain it is Qitian Hou," Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    "Oh?" Mr. Shuijing looked surprised.


    "What has always hindered my judgment was Qitian Hou''s indifference, making it difficult for me to believe he could personally kill his own younger sister. But he did," Zhongshan sighed with a hint of regret.


    "Since it''s useful, that''s good. There are just over ten days left. His Majesty will soon expect you to present your findings in court. Do you have any evidence against Qitian Hou?" Mr. Shuijing asked.


    "No, Qitian Hou has meticulously nned this. There is not a single w, all clues have been thoroughly erased. From what we know, there is absolutely no evidence," Zhongshan sighed deeply.


    "All physical evidence has been wiped clean, leaving only evidence against the princess. What about testimonies? It seems this time Qitian Hou acted alone, without witnesses," Mr. Shuijing remarked.


    "No, since I am sure it is Qitian Hou, there is a witness," Zhongshan said.


    "I certainly am not a witness," Mr. Shuijing chuckled.


    "I know. When I speak of a witness, I refer to someone else, and there are two of them," Zhongshan affirmed.


    "Two?" Mr. Shuijing frowned.


    "Yes, one is Qitian Hou himself, and the other is Yinging," Zhongshan said.


    "Them? How could Qitian Hou use himself? And isn''t Yinging dead?" Mr. Shuijing frowned.


    "Yinging is indeed dead, but she was one of the two who knew the truth. I must consult Tian Lao!" Zhongshan pondered.


    "Tian Lao? Do you intend to summon Yinging''s spirit?" Princess Qianyou asked in confusion.


    "Yes!" Zhongshan replied.


    "It won''t work. If it could, the truth would have been revealed long ago. Tian Lao cannot be summoned," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Regardless, I will go and inquire again!" Zhongshan smiled.


    "Very well," Princess Qianyou could only nod.


    "Mr. Shuijing, have some tea before you leave. I must go now," Zhongshan hurriedly said.


    "Mm," Mr. Shuijing nodded.


    Shortly after, Zhongshan left swiftly with a sense of urgency, leaving Ada and A''er to protect Princess Qianyou.


    Once Zhongshan departed, Mr. Shuijing smiled and remarked, "I''ve never seen Zhongshan so nervous. Only matters concerning you, Princess, would make him so serious."


    "Hehe," Princess Qianyou smiled happily.


    "Can Tian Lao truly not summon Yinging''s spirit?" Mr. Shuijing asked.


    "No, Tian Lao has tried and failed. Yinging''s spirit cannot be summoned to help. Qitian Hou is too clever,mitting the crime wlessly without leaving any traces or clues. There''s really no hope during the trial," Princess Qianyou sighed.


    "I think otherwise!" Mr. Shuijing smiled.


    "Oh?" Princess Qianyou looked at Mr. Shuijing in puzzlement.


    "It depends on who defends you. Qitian Hou is indeed intelligent, incredibly so, perhaps more than you, me, Zhongshan, or anyone else. But Zhongshan has an advantage, an absolute advantage. Even I am no match for him, and Qitian Hou is far inferior to him," Mr. Shuijing said confidently.


    "Oh? I remember during the imperial examination, you mentioned something," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Indeed, that time I felt it��this advantage is not innate intelligence, but something that surpasses innate intelligence," Mr. Shuijing said.


    "Um? What exactly?" Princess Qianyou asked curiously.


    "Shrewdness!" Mr. Shuijing replied.


    "Shrewd?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Yes, shrewd, extremely shrewd. From my years of acquaintance with Zhongshan, I feel that every method, every action of his is incredibly shrewd. Shrewdness isn''t innate intelligence; it''s something magically cultivated afterward, influenced by experience, perception, mindset, and many other factors. This shrewdness doesn''t make Zhongshan smarter, but it ensures that everything he does is absolutely right," Mr. Shuijing exined.


    "Everything he does is right?" Princess Qianyou furrowed her brow.


    "Yes, no matter how high one''s intelligence is, there are limits to its thoroughness. But Zhongshan''s shrewdness extends to every tiny detail, guaranteeing that every action he takes is the most correct. Haven''t you noticed? For Zhongshan, it''s not about being the best at everything, but about being absolutely correct. As long as it''s correct, it doesn''t matter whether it''s good or not. He just needs it to be right," Mr. Shuijing sighed with admiration.


    "But this ''rightness,'' do you know how difficult it is to achieve? How hard it is to truly be ''shrewd''? It''s incredibly difficult, far beyond my own millennia of exploration. Zhongshan''s shrewdness is beyond Qitian Hou''sparison. Moreover, Qitian Hou, having absorbed the Imperial Realm when he was young, though it enhanced his wisdom, also robbed him of precious time to understand the depths of the world with amon man''s consciousness. Therefore, he can never match Zhongshan. In front of Zhongshan, he is too inexperienced," Mr. Shuijing continued to marvel.


    "Are you saying Qitian Hou can''t match Zhongshan, or even you?" Princess Qianyou chuckled.


    "Hehe, if ''wisdom'' is vertical, then ''shrewdness'' is horizontal. But if the princess asks like this, I won''t be modest anymore," Mr. Shuijing chuckled.


    "Hehe," Princess Qianyou also smiled happily, especially since they were discussing Zhongshan.


    "The most direct example of this is the current rumors outside! I believe Zhongshan deliberately spread them," Mr. Shuijing said.


    "Oh? How can you tell?" Princess Qianyou asked.


    "Zhongshan is establishing his most illustrious image, all for your sake, Princess," Mr. Shuijing exined.


    "How so?" Princess Qianyou looked at Mr. Shuijing.


    "When Zhongshan returned, you were likely in a situation where everyone was isting you��divided into three parts: rtives, thew, and public opinion. These three parts were like three mountains pressing down on you. When Zhongshan establishes his image, he simultaneously alters one of these parts��the murmurs of the public. Zhongshan has already moved one mountain away for you. As long as the other two mountains are also moved, you will bepletely unshackled," Mr. Shuijing said.


    "Are the murmurs of the public really that important?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "That''s where the princesscks ''shrewdness''pared to Zhongshan," Mr. Shuijing smiled.


    "For the princess to bepared to Zhongshan, in the past, I would never dare to mention it. But now, mentioning it, the princess isn''t angry, but rather slightly pleased," Mr. Shuijing chuckled.


    "Oh?" Princess Qianyou was curious.


    "Who makes up the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty? It''s not just your Gu family rtives; it''s His Majesty and the people of the realm. What is the will of heaven? It''s the will of His Majesty, and simrly, the will of the people. When public opinion favors you, heaven favors you. When heaven favors you, what concern is there about your Gu family, thew, and such trivial matters?" Mr. Shuijing exined.


    After pondering for a moment, Princess Qianyou took a deep breath and said, "Qianyou has learned a lot!"


    "Hehe, I''ve been too talkative. Zhongshan thinks more thoroughly than I do. If I didn''t say it, he would say it to youter," Mr. Shuijing shook his head and chuckled.


    "How is it? What have you observed?" Da Xuan Wang asked.


    "The trial will feature the most spectacr confrontation in the ancient hall," Fan Yipin said.


    "Oh? Does the suspect resemble Gu Lin?" Da Xuan Wang asked in puzzlement.


    "Hehe, he bears a strong resemnce, but Qitian Hou is extremely cunning. He has wiped away all tracespletely, not a single one. Moreover, Zhongshan hasn''t found any evidence whatsoever. I''m certain," Fan Yipin replied.


    "Clean isn''t good?" Da Xuan Wang chuckled.


    "Clean is good, but too clean can be bad. It''s because it''s too clean that it exposes him. As I''ve told you, Zhongshan is exceedingly shrewd. Qitian Hou can''t match him in this regard. Only you, Your Majesty, the Grand Tutor, the other three princes, and His Majesty have such profound ''shrewdness.'' Even without a shred of evidence, Zhongshan might still bring down Qitian Hou," Fan Yipin thoughtfully remarked.


    "You''re that certain?" Da Xuan Wang smiled.


    "It''s my spection. We''ll have to wait until the day of the trial. But I can assure you, the confrontation between Zhongshan and Qitian Hou on that day in the court will be absolutely spectacr. If possible, I truly wish to witness it with my own eyes," Fan Yipin said after a moment of consideration.


    "If you wish to see it, then go!" Da Xuan Wang chuckled.


    "Huh?" Fan Yipin was slightly taken aback.


    "On the day of the trial, many of my Gu family rtives will surely return to observe. You can enter with them, and I will inform His Majesty," Da Xuan Wang said.


    "Thank you, Your Highness!" Fan Yipin immediately smiled.


    "Do we still need to be so formal?" Da Xuan Wang chuckled.


    In the ancient capital, in a dim and remote area in the far north. Thick fog obscured everything, making it impossible to see beyond.


    Zhongshan and Zhihuo descended from the clouds and stood on a mountaintop outside the dense fog, gazing at the vast expanse of white mist.


    "General, Tian Lao resides here?" Zhihuo furrowed his brow.


    "Qianyou said it''s here, so it should be. As for the dense fog, you should have encountered such Feng Shui formations during the reign of the Great Emperor," Zhongshan said, wrinkling his brow.


    "Is this a Feng Shui grand formation?" Zhihuo raised an eyebrow.

 Chapter 364: The Day of Judgment

    <h4>Chapter 364: The Day of Judgment</h4>


    "Junior Zhongshan requests an audience with Elder Tiao!" Zhongshan called out towards the great array.


    Zhongshan chose not to trespass. Although the area covered by the white mist was vast, he believed that as long as he stood outside, Elder Tiao would know of his presence.


    However, there was no response from Elder Tiao inside the array, and it remained eerily quiet.


    "Junior Zhongshan requests an audience with Elder Tiao!" Zhongshan called out again.


    Inside the array, it remained quiet as before. Elder Tiao either refused to see Zhongshan or simply disdained meeting him.


    Zhongshan raised an eyebrow. He could guess Elder Tiao''s entric temperament. Moreover, his own identity didn''t warrant much respect from Elder Tiao, as even Da Xuan Wang didn''t dare to disy superiority in front of him.


    Zhongshan waited for two hours, but still, Elder Tiao did not emerge.


    "Zhihuo, summon my 800,000 Zhong family soldiers, dig three feet into the ground, and tear down this array for me!" Zhongshan shouted loudly.


    "Yes!" Zhihuo immediately responded.


    "Who dares to dismantle my great array?" Finally, Elder Tiao''s voice of anger echoed from within the array.


    Immediately, the white mist in the array churned. Obviously, Elder Tiao was very angry. Zhongshan had annoyed him for two hours, yet he still wouldn''t leave. Did he really intend to dismantle his grand array?


    "Elder, I have offended you. It''s just that you have ignored me all this time, and I have an urgent matter at hand. I had no choice but to resort to this!" Zhongshan said immediately.


    "Hmph, ast resort? Come in!" Elder Tiao''s voice came from inside once again.


    As soon as Elder Tiao''s voice fell, a passage suddenly appeared above the white mist.


    Zhongshan quickly flew into the passage with Zhihuo, heading straight to the innermost part.


    Inside, it was still a vast expanse of white fog, obscuring everything within, just like the mist on the ancient battlefield, capable of influencing one''s senses.


    The two flew through the white fog passage and soon reached the center. A ck pce floated in mid-air.


    "Heavenly Pulse Pce"


    Above the pce que were the three characters "Heavenly Pulse Pce." ording to Elder Tiao''s previous exnation, practitioners of Feng Shui were divided into Heaven, Earth, Human, Spirit, and Ghost, and Elder Tiao should be one of the heirs of the Heavenly Pulse lineage.


    The doors of the Heavenly Pulse Pce were wide open. Zhongshan and Zhihuo stepped inside, where argepassy on the ground of the main hall, surrounded by candles burning at the four corners.


    Elder Tiao leaned on his cane, coldly staring at Zhongshan.


    "Zhongshan, pay respects to Elder!" Zhongshan immediately said.


    "Zhihuo, pay respects to Elder!" Zhihuo also said immediately.


    "You brat, no one dares to dismantle my grand array. You have quite the audacity!" Elder Tiao said coldly.


    "Junior dare not. It''s just that His Majesty has ordered me to thoroughly investigate the case of Princess Qianyou. I had no choice but to offend Elder," Zhongshan said.


    "Don''t use ancient divine techniques to pressure me. Within the Great Luo Dynasty, no one can suppress me!" Elder Tiao said.


    "Yes, I understand that Elder had prepared to ept Yining as a disciple in the past. However, Yining was mysteriously killedter. Elder must have felt uneasy about this. Zhongshan came here only to ask Elder to help find the real culprit, clear Princess Qianyou''s name, and let Yining rest in peace. Please calm your anger, Elder," Zhongshan earnestly pleaded.


    "Innocent? Wasn''t it Princess Qianyou who killed her?" Elder Tiao said coldly.


    "I believe Elder Tiao must also know Princess Qianyou''s character. She would nevermit such a fratricide, and even if she wanted to, she wouldn''t do it in a crowded ce. Qianyou isn''t that foolish. Besides, in the past, Elder Tiao hadn''t formally epted Yining yet. Princess Qianyou must still have had a chance to be chosen again by Elder Tiao. Yining is already dead. Only Qianyou is left. Elder has lost Yining. Do you want to lose Qianyou as well?" Zhongshan reasoned.


    "Regardless of the truth, I will not ept Qianyou again. Even if she did not kill Yining, my words have never changed," Tiao shook his head.


    Watching this stubborn old man, Zhongshan raised an eyebrow.


    "Elder, I have the Golden Cicada gifted by Jinshan, the Purple Wood Cotton Kasaya. I am willing to use this as a guarantee to exchange for a chance to clear Qianyou''s name. If ultimately Qianyou is still found guilty, the Purple Wood Cotton Kasaya will return to you," Zhongshan said earnestly.


    Zhongshan''s offer was not due to the Kasaya''s value and power, but because of Tiao''s previous astonishment. After forcing away Mud Bodhisattva, Tiao had questioned Zhongshan, who then revealed the Kasaya. Tiao had deeply inhaled and remarked, ''Golden Cicada? A Ninth-rank Spiritual Treasure, and he''s really willing to part with it.''


    "He''s really willing?" This statement and Tiao''s solemn tone had confirmed to Zhongshan that Tiao cared deeply about the Kasaya. Tiao couldn''t possibly be unfamiliar with Ninth-rank Spiritual Treasures; Zhongshan was even certain that Tiao possessed more than one. Yet, why did he still attach such significance to this particr Kasaya? It surely held some special meaning for Tiao. He wanted it.


    Sure enough, after Zhongshan finished speaking, Tiao squinted his eyes at Zhongshan and then shook his head, saying, "Whether Qianyou is innocent or not is none of my concern."


    Seeing Tiao''s expression, Zhongshan could only sigh inwardly. This Tiao indeed knew how to push for more.


    "Very well, regardless of the oue, after the Day of Judgment, the Purple Wood Cotton Kasaya will belong to Elder," Zhongshan said.


    "Hmm," Tiao responded lightly, then continued, "I will not lie for you!"


    "Understood. Junior believes that Qianyou is innocent, so there''s no need for deception. However, I''d like to ask first, can Elder summon Yining''s soul?" Zhongshan asked seriously.


    "Gu Shen Tong has already asked me. No, Yining''s soul has not entered the Ghost City of the Underworld, so I cannot summon it," Tiao shook his head.


    "I see. Then on the day of judgment, I hope Elder can simte Yining''s soul in your ''Derived Realm.'' It doesn''t need to speak; just look at her rtives for three breaths of time each. Afterward, Elder can ''send her off'' to the Underworld," Zhongshan proposed.


    "Oh?" Tiao looked slightly puzzled.


    "After the Day of Judgment, the Purple Wood Cotton Kasaya will belong to Elder. I believe with my modest abilities, I will definitely not dare to go back on my word," Zhongshan said.


    "Heh," Tiao let out a disdainful chuckle.


    Indeed, to y games of wits with Tiao, Zhongshan''s current strength was far from sufficient��


    On the way back,


    "General, are you really going to give the Purple Wood Cotton Kasaya to Tiao?" Zhihuo asked reluctantly.


    "Hehe, there are some things you don''t know," Zhongshan shook his head and smiled.


    In truth, although the Purple Wood Cotton Kasaya had helped Zhongshan several times, he had long wanted to give it away. Tiao wasn''t a good person, just as Jinshan wasn''t. To give his own Purple Wood Cotton Kasaya?


    It was like the Sacred Sword in Zhihuo''s hand. Zhongshan was sure that every move he made these days was well known to the Emperor without the need for spies, thanks to the Sacred Sword. Simrly, the Purple Wood Cotton Kasaya was Jinshan''s treasure from a past life. Would everything about Zhongshan be equally known to Jinshan?


    However, in times of powerlessness, Zhongshan had always pretended to be ignorant. Those who pretended to be ignorant could live longer.


    The deadline of one month has arrived.


    During this month of publicity, Zhongshan''s prestige in the Ancient Holy Capital has been rapidly increasing. In the Ancient Holy Capital, one can choose not to worship Zhongshan, feel jealous of him, or even ignore him, but absolutely cannot remain unaware of him. If you don''t know Zhongshan, you might as well be a barbarian!


    Not everyone worships Zhongshan, but there are always some who do. Their support may not determine the oue of the trial, but Zhongshan''s defense of Princess Qianyou has definitely bolstered his momentum.


    This is an intangible thing, like two people in a fight where their martial strengths are equal, but one person''s momentum overwhelms the other''s, which often decides the winner.


    At least, people are discussing it fervently, and numerous betting houses have opened up, iming to support Zhongshan. These messages have reached the ears of the court officials. As a result, in the atmosphere of the court, the unequivocal support for Princess Qianyou has diminished, thereby reducing the pressure on Zhongshan.


    Today is the Judgment Day. Countless gamblers are eagerly awaiting the oue in the court.


    On the court, the court officials have long been waiting.


    Two rows of court officials are standing. On the left side, led by Grand Tutor Huan Tulong, and on the right side, led by Prime Minister Zheng Yi Wang, with King Daxuan in the center. The twelfth position is held by General Qitian, and behind him is Marquis Ma Zuirao.


    On both sides of the court officials, there are arge number of members of the Gu n, all waiting for the trial to begin. Among them is also Grand Tutor Fan Yipin, the first counselor to King Daxuan.


    Everyone stands silently, without speaking.


    "His Majesty the Emperor arrives����������������������������������" A eunuch''s voice dragged on.


    The space in front of the Dragon Throne slightly twisted, and His Majesty the Emperor, the ancient god of supernatural powers, appeared suddenly, wearing a purple dragon robe and a white jade t heaven crown.


    "Long live His Majesty the Emperor����������������������������������"


    The court officials bowed together.


    Emperor Gushentong waved his sleeves, causing a gust of wind, and slowly sat down.


    Outside the Ancient Holy Pce, under the Ancient Holy Mountain, Zhongshan stood with the Sacred Sword in his hand, quietly awaiting the summons of the Emperor. Standing beside Zhongshan were two other individuals whose identities Zhongshan had learned about from recent investigations.


    One was dressed in a magnificent royal robe, exuding an aura of nobility, and giving off a warm and weing feeling that made people involuntarily want to get closer to him or even submit. He was the Third Prince of the Daxuan Dynasty, Gu Taizong, King Taizong!


    The other was d in armor, with a crown on his head longer than the Phoenix Wing Purple Gold Crown worn by General Qitian, exuding an aura of dominance and arrogance. His gaze seemed capable of making all things submit. He was the Fourth Prince of the Daxuan Dynasty, Gu Zhantian, King Zhantian!

 Chapter 365: Confrontation in the Court

    <h4>Chapter 365: Confrontation in the Court</h4>


    Zhongshan spotted the other two Great Princes of the Daxuan Dynasty, and they in turn noticed him as well. Upon seeing the Sacred Sword in Zhongshan''s hand, their eyes gleamed slightly. Zhongshan! They knew him, just as he knew them. They were well-informed about Zhongshan''s identity and capabilities.


    Prince Taizong looked at Zhongshan with a smile full of infectious charm, nodding slightly in a very friendly manner, like a spring breeze blowing gently. Prince Zhantian nced at Zhongshan with a smirk of arrogance before turning his head away. Neither of the two Princes spoke to Zhongshan.


    The two Great Princes had just returned to the court, and there were rules to follow in the celestial court. If they wanted to return to their former official positions among the court officials on both sides, they needed the Emperor''s permission.


    In the Ancient Holy Pce:


    "Long live His Majesty the Emperor����������������������������������"


    All the court officials and the Gu n rtives who were observing the trial bowed together.


    "Hmm!" Ancient Gushentong Emperor responded lightly.


    Gushentong, elevated and supreme, in the Ancient Holy Pce, he was like a deity overlooking the world.


    "Let''s proceed together," Gushentong said lightly.


    A eunuch nearby bowed slightly and stepped forward.


    "Announce the entry of Prince Taizong into the pce����������������������������������"


    "Announce the entry of Prince Zhantian into the pce����������������������������������"


    "Announce the entry of Marquis Dongfang into the pce����������������������������������"


    As soon as the eunuch inside the hall finished announcing, the eunuch outside the hall followed suit.


    "Announce the entry of Prince Taizong into the pce����������������������������������"


    ... Layer byyer, it spread all the way down to the foot of the Ancient Holy Mountain.


    Zhongshan nodded slightly to the two Princes and made a slight bow. The two Princes stepped forward.


    Prince Taizong walked in front, with Prince Zhantian closely behind him, and Zhongshan followed at the rear. They quickly arrived at the entrance of the Ancient Holy Pce.


    The three entered together.


    "Your Majesty, your sons pay their respects. May Your Majesty enjoy eternal happiness and longevity equal to that of the heavens!" Both Great Princes spoke simultaneously.


    "Minister Zhongshan pays respects to Your Majesty. May Your Majesty live ten thousand years!" Zhongshan bowed.


    "Take your positions," Ancient Gushentong said calmly.


    "Yes!" The two Great Princes responded immediately.


    Prince Taizong stood behind King Daxuan, and Prince Zhantian stood behind Prince Taizong. In the center of the hall, only Zhongshan remained.


    The court was solemn and majestic, and no one dared to speak out of turn.


    Zhongshan scanned the surroundings. Beyond the two rows of court officials were the rtives of the Gu n, all standing patiently on the periphery, waiting for the trial of Princess Qianyou.


    "Dongfang Marquis Zhongshan!" Gushentong called out.


    "Here!" Zhongshan replied.


    "We promised you one month. Have you found out the truth?" Gushentong asked.


    "Your Majesty, I have unraveled the cause and effect. Today, I am here to report to Your Majesty, to the Gu n, and to the world!" Zhongshan affirmed confidently.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, everyone looked at him. Grand Tutor Huan Tulong looked at Zhongshan with a slight smile. Prime Minister Zheng Yi Wang gazed at Zhongshan, his eyes still cloudy, revealing nothing distinctive.


    As King Daxuan looked at Zhongshan, his gaze held a scrutinizing intent. Prince Taizong maintained his gentle and unchanged demeanor, akin to the warmth of spring breeze. Prince Zhantian, with an attitude of looking down upon all living beings, cast a disdainful nce at Zhongshan.


    In a distant corner, Fan Yipin stood silently, his expression devoid of emotion. Meanwhile, Marquis Qitian narrowed his eyes, his gaze coldly fixed on Zhongshan. The most powerful figures of the Daxuan Dynasty had all gathered here.


    Their ultimate task: to pass judgment on Princess Qianyou.


    "Announce!" Ancient Gushentong spoke lightly.


    Immediately, an elderly eunuch beside him stepped forward, holding a decree: "In the 8,014th year of Daxuan, on the fifth day of the third month at noon, Princess Yingling was shot to death by the Wind God''s Arrow in her residence. The first to arrive at the scene was Marquis Dongfang Zhuiyue, the Deputy Minister of Punishments, who summoned numerous guests of the princess''s mansion to witness the crime scene. At the scene of the crime, Princess Qianyou was found holding the Wind God''s Bow, aiming directly at Princess Yingling. Princess Yingling had been shot in the back with the Wind God''s Arrow, which pierced her purple pce, causing instant death without anyst words!"


    While the eunuch announced, Princess Qianyou was escorted into the hall by several guards. Simultaneously, another eunuch carried a tray holding the deadly weapons: the Wind God''s Bow and Arrow.


    The prime suspect: Princess Qianyou.


    Upon seeing Qianyou, Zhongshan gave her a reassuring nce. Qianyou nodded in response and stood aside.


    Qitian Marquis had been watching Qianyou closely since her entrance into the hall. Midway through, he nced at Zhongshan, then took a deep breath as if to adjust his state. Suddenly, a hint of anger erupted in his eyes as he stared directly at Princess Qianyou.


    The four Great Princes watched silently.


    "Gu Qianyou, We ask you: did you kill Yingling?" Ancient Gushentong asked solemnly, as if passing divine judgment.


    "Your Majesty, I did not kill Yingling!" Princess Qianyou immediately responded.


    As Qianyou spoke, Qitian Marquis red angrily at her.


    "Qitian Marquis, do you have something to say?" Ancient Gushentong turned and asked.


    Upon hearing the Emperor''s call, Qitian Marquis immediately stepped forward.


    "Your Majesty, Qianyou is lying! Several court officials witnessed it with their own eyes that day. We cannot wrong Yingling''s vengeance. I vow to make the one who killed my own sister pay the price. If there is a traitor among the Gu n rtives, they must be exposed to uphold justice!" Qitian Marquis dered with righteous indignation.


    As Qitian Marquis spoke, the surrounding Gu n rtives nodded one after another, echoing his sentiments. Indeed, if a princess could murder a rtive with impunity, the status of the Gu n rtives would plummet rapidly.


    The court officials also nodded in agreement.


    The four Great Princes continued to stare at Princess Qianyou without uttering a word.


    "Well said. Such a traitor must be exposed to uphold justice. Since you are so certain that it is Gu Qianyou, then it shall be you who will use her of the crime," Ancient Gushentong said lightly.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Qitian Marquis breathed deeply in satisfaction.


    "Zhongshan, report the findings you have gathered these days!" Ancient Gushentongmanded.


    "Yes!" Zhongshan responded respectfully.


    Zhongshan nced at everyone and walked over to the eunuch holding the Wind God''s Bow and Arrow.


    "Minister Ma!" Zhongshan suddenly called out.


    Deputy Minister of Punishments, Ma Zhuiyue, frowned slightly but stepped forward nheless.


    "Were you the first to see the crime scene that day?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yes!" Ma Zhuiyue replied.


    "Please use your spell to project the scene you first saw," Zhongshan requested.


    Marquis Zhuiyue frowned slightly but proceeded to use his spell within the grand hall, projecting the scene he had witnessed firsthand.


    In a courtyard, Princess Qianyou held the Wind God''s Bow, while Yingling had her back turned to Qianyou, struck by the Wind God''s Arrow which ended her life instantly.


    As the scene reyed, the Gu n rtives frowned in unison. Wasn''t it clear that Princess Qianyou had shot Yingling?


    Qitian Marquis sneered, "Back then, with no one around, Marquis Ma was the first witness. Gu Qianyou killed Yingling with the Wind God''s Arrow. There''s no room for debate. Do you still want to defend her?"


    "Your Majesty, Marquis Ma was indeed the first eyewitness. What he saw cannot be surpassed by subsequent witnesses. But what happened before? Some im Qianyou killed Yingling. For fairness and justice, let Princess Qianyou recount exactly how the events unfolded that day," Zhongshan proposed.


    "Granted!" the Emperor said.


    All eyes turned to Princess Qianyou. Using magic like Marquis Ma, she swiftly projected the scene from the courtyard that day.


    "It happened like this. As I was using my divine consciousness to investigate the courtyard, the culprit had already escaped!" Princess Qianyou stated.


    "Nonsense! Haha, Gu Qianyou, you killed Yingling and now you''re still trying to argue? Many court officials saw it with their own eyes. Are they all wrong? The Wind God''s Bow and Arrow belong to your biological father. Are you suggesting they were separated? Did you give the Wind God''s Arrow to this so-called ''culprit'' who then framed you? Ridiculous! Ridiculous~~~~~" Qitian Marquisughed angrily.


    Qitian Marquis''s words were logical. The Gu n rtives looked at Princess Qianyou with cold indifference.


    In this case where both circumstantial and physical evidence pointed to her guilt, her attempt to defend herself seemed hopeless.


    Princess Qianyou red at Qitian Marquis but said nothing more, trusting Zhongshan.


    "Hehe, Qitian Marquis, there''s no need to be so anxious. The truth cannot be determined by one-sided words, but by evidence," Zhongshan interjected.


    "Evidence? Huh! The evidence is right here��Wind God''s Bow, Wind God''s Arrow, and Marquis Ma''s eyewitness ount. Isn''t this evidence enough?" Qitian Marquis retorted angrily.


    "Eyewitness? Marquis Ma? Marquis Ma was only a witness who appearedter. In fact, there was another person who witnessed Yingling''s death in the courtyard that day, and he saw clearly how she was killed and by whom," Zhongshan said.


    As Zhongshan spoke, the courtiers looked at each other, and the Gu n rtives began to murmur.


    Another witness? How is that possible? Why wasn''t this discovered earlier? Did Zhongshan deliberately fabricate this?


    All discussions turned towards Zhongshan.


    "Oh? I''d like to see who you''ve found to give false testimony for Gu Qianyou. Who dares to be so bold as to give false testimony in the Ancient Holy Hall!" Qitian Marquis red.


    "False testimony? How do you know it''s false testimony? Are you so sure there were no witnesses in the courtyard at that time?" Zhongshan pressed Qitian Marquis.


    "Hmph, if there were still witnesses, they would have been discovered long ago. Why wait until now? Bring them out!" Qitian Marquis retorted immediately.


    Naturally, Qitian Marquis did not believe there was a third person because he had already thoroughly investigated the surroundings before the crime urred.


    "The witness I''m talking about is Yingling herself," Zhongshan narrowed his eyes.


    Yingling? As Zhongshan spoke, the court erupted in renewed discussion. Yingling��yes, she must have known the truth. But wasn''t it said that she couldn''t be summoned?

 Chapter 366: Chaos in the Realm of Qitian Marquis

    <h4>Chapter 366: Chaos in the Realm of Qitian Marquis</h4>


    "Yingning?" Qitian Marquis''s pupils contracted.


    "I wonder if Princess Yingning herself can testify? And if she does, would it be considered false testimony?" Zhongshan smiled confidently.


    If Princess Yingning testified in person, who would dare call it false? It would undoubtedly be the most authentic proof.


    "Yingning? Yingning has passed away. Tian Lao said her soul has not yet entered the Underworld''s Ghost City, so we cannot summon her!" Qitian Marquis retorted immediately.


    "Not being summonable doesn''t mean Yingning can''t testify. Tian Lao has found another way to have Yingning confront everyone here in the Ancient Sacred Temple, to confront Princess Qianyou, and to confront Qitian Marquis!" Zhongshan narrowed his eyes.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s resolute gaze, Qitian Marquis''s expression tightened, his aura weakening slightly. Nevertheless, he feignedposure. "Ha, then let Yingninge out and personally point out the murderer. Let her expose the crimes of Princess Qianyou."


    "She will, she will point out the real culprit!" Zhongshan stared at Qitian Marquis and smiled.


    At this moment, Qitian Marquis seemed to dislike Zhongshan''s smile intensely. Seeing Zhongshan''s calm smile, an inexplicable sense of irritation arose within him.


    Turning his head, Zhongshan looked towards the Emperor. "Your Majesty, I have already discussed with Tian Lao. Please allow Tian Lao to enter the hall."


    "Mm!" Emperor Gushentong nodded.


    At that moment, Tian Lao needed no announcement. He leaned on his cane and slowly entered.


    Tian Lao held a very high position in the Great Luo Dynasty. Although he held no official title, no one dared to underestimate him.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty!" Tian Lao greeted as he entered.


    "Mm!" Emperor Gushentong nodded.


    In the court hall, everyone watched quietly. What was Tian Lao going to do, everyone knew. He was a Feng Shui master, different from those pursuing official careers, yet possessing his own mystical abilities, the most mystical being his ability tomunicate between the realms of Yin and Yang.


    Summoning spirits?


    Tian Lao was capable of summoning spirits. There had been precedents in the past, but over a month ago, Tian Lao had already said he couldn''t summon Yingning''s soul. Could it be possible now?


    Zhongshan respectfully bowed to Tian Lao. "Senior, we are counting on you."


    "Mm!" Tian Lao responded lightly.


    "Tian Lao, can you summon Yingning''s soul now?" Qitian Marquis asked with some anticipation.


    "I cannot. But I can show you Yingning''s soul. She can also see all of you. Whatever she says will be her own words; no one can force her. Her soul is still in the Underworld." Tian Lao spoke calmly.


    Upon hearing Tian Lao''s words, everyone in the court held their breath. They waited silently, as if setting up projections for both sides to see each other.


    Qitian Marquis stared at Tian Lao, his brows slightly furrowed, swallowing nervously, his fists clenched. However, his response was quick. "Then please proceed, Tian Lao."


    Seeing Qitian Marquis, Zhongshan smiled faintly. Did Qitian Marquis really invite Tian Lao to proceed? Outsiders might not discern much, but Zhongshan knew well: Qitian Marquis must be feeling extremely tense inwardly. Yet he refused to back down, guided both by his apparent calm and his inner wisdom, knowing that he could not retreat until the very end.


    Feigningposure?


    "Tian Lao, please proceed." Zhongshan respectfully urged.


    Tian Lao nodded, then stowed away his Heavenly Wood Cane and produced a square scroll from nowhere. The scroll was covered with various eerie symbols. Zhongshan nced at it and felt as if those symbols were constantly moving, as if they might jump out at any moment. The longer he looked, the more confused his vision became.


    Tiaoid the scroll t on the ground, his stooped figure facing it directly. He gently swayed his hand, and drops of purple liquid dripped from his fingers onto the scroll.


    As the purple drops fell, the symbols on the scroll began to pulse faster and move rapidly. In an instant, the entire scroll blurredpletely, bing indistinct, but simultaneously projecting a faint green light.


    Tiao silently muttered something, iprehensible to anyone, yet everyone seemed to understand.


    Above the scroll, the faint green light gradually gathered, like fireflies converging into one. Gradually, a figure began to appear in the air above the scroll.


    The figure became clearer and clearer. Finally, it fully materialized��a woman in white, exquisitely beautiful, her hair flowing loosely, eyes filled with deep sorrow.


    Yingning! It was Yingning!


    Seeing Yingning''s appearance, almost all the courtiers gasped in astonishment and began to whisper. Even the peripheral members of the Gu family sucked in their breath.


    Yingning had appeared, truly appeared. Now the truth behind the case could be revealed.


    At the sudden appearance of Yingning, Duke Qitian unconsciously stepped back, a hint of fear shing in his eyes. However, he quickly regained hisposure, staring fixedly at Yingning, uncertain whether this was real or not.


    Duke Qitian was skeptical yet deeply worried.


    In the court, the Grand Preceptor and the Four Crown Princes furrowed their brows slightly, as if sensing something. Their deepposure prevented any outward disy.


    Zhengyi Wang''s eyes briefly cleared, then clouded over again.


    Daxuan Wang''s gaze was fixed on Duke Qitian.


    Zhan Tianwang continued to stare at Yingning.


    Huantulong nced at Duke Qitian, Zhongshan, and Yingning in turn.


    As for Emperor Gushentong, his expression remained unchanged as he began to circte around the hall the moment Yingning appeared.


    "Princess Yingning, who was it that shot you back then? With so many courtiers present, what do you have to say?" Zhongshan whispered softly.


    Yingning''s gaze first turned towards Princess Qianyou, causing everyone to hold their breath. Was Princess Qianyou the real culprit?


    However, in just three breaths of time, Yingning''s gaze shifted to the Emperor, locking eyes with him. She looked at the Emperor for three breaths, then turned to Daxuan Wang, staring at him intently for three breaths. Next, she scrutinized some of the members of the Gu family with a tinge of sadness in her eyes, leaving everyone feeling deeply oppressed.


    During this time, Duke Qitian clenched his fists continuously. If not for the toughened palms from his cultivation, his hands might have bled by now. Beads of cold sweat appeared on his forehead. He swallowed nervously, watching Yingning examine each person''s face so quickly��just a nce?


    Finally, Yingning turned towards Duke Qitian. In that moment of intense gaze, Duke Qitian involuntarily stepped back again, albeit subtly, relying on the support of his rear foot.


    Yingning''s sorrowful gaze seemed to prate Duke Qitian''s soul, delving into the deepest recesses of his heart.


    Duke Qitian tightened his fists even more, feeling as if a taut string was holding him back, as if he wanted to blurt out something but was stifled by this intense tension.


    At this moment, Duke Qitian was no longer theposed figure he once was.


    For such a long, agonizing time, Yingning nced past everyone swiftly, but why did she spend so much longer looking at me? Why hasn''t she turned away yet?


    Duke Qitian''s inner turmoil screamed with fear. Could Yingning be about to expose me? Is she going to speak the truth? Is iting out?


    Duke Qitian felt like his heart was about to stop beating. Sweat poured down his forehead more and more.


    Finally, after what felt like an eternity of tension, Yingning turned her head. Then, she looked at Tiao, her figure dispersing slightly, and vanished.


    Yingning didn''t say anything? She really didn''t say anything.


    "We''ve lost contact with Yingning," Tiao shook his head.


    Lost contact? But Yingning hadn''t even had a chance to speak. The Gu family members grew anxious. Princess Qianyou, nearby, also showed signs of worry.


    What now? Lost contact?


    At this moment, everyone in the court suddenly looked at Duke Qitian. What happened to Duke Qitian? Why was he covered in sweat?


    Zhongshan kept his gaze fixed on Duke Qitian. He actually made it through?


    Duke Qitian was drenched in sweat, his clothes almost soaked through. He was filled with extreme fear, but he had managed to endure it. Ha, he had made it through. Yingning didn''t appear, she didn''t say anything. That was great, really great, she didn''t say anything.


    "Duke Qitian, what''s the matter with you?" Zhongshan asked.


    Although Duke Qitian had managed to hold on, his inner turmoil left him in a state of extreme excitement, mixed with relief and exhration.


    When Zhongshan questioned him, Duke Qitian immediately realized hispse.


    "Yingning, why did you leave like that? Why didn''t you say anything to me? Why didn''t you point out Gu Qianyou, who killed you?" Duke Qitian didn''t answer Zhongshan directly but looked sorrowfully at the scroll on the ground where Tiao had worked his magic.


    "Duke Qitian, are you feeling unwell?" the Emperor asked.


    "No, Your Majesty, I... I was just too overwhelmed by seeing Yingning''s soul, so I broke out in a sweat. I''m fine, it''s just a pity that Yingning couldn''t point out the real culprit and let me avenge her!" Duke Qitian said with a mncholy expression.


    What a good actor! Zhongshan sighed inwardly.


    "Tiao, can you summon Yingning''s projection again, like you did just now?" Emperor Gushentong asked.


    Emperor Gushentong asked, and Duke Qitian nervously looked at Tiao. Outsiders might think he was concerned about his sister, but only Duke Qitian knew why he was so nervous.


    "No, it''s not possible anymore. At least not for another year," Tiao shook his head and bent down to slowly roll up the scroll, putting it away.


    No longer possible? Does that mean Yingning can never testify again?


    After Tiao finished speaking, Duke Qitian let out a long sigh and a barely perceptible smile appeared on his lips.


    Barely perceptible to most, but not to those who had been watching him closely.


    Zhongshan saw Duke Qitian''s almost imperceptible smile and felt a surge of joy. He had seeded in disrupting Duke Qitian''s rhythm. Duke Qitian had broken out of his perfect defense; his inner defenses had copsed. Now, it was time for Zhongshan''s most intense attack.


    Fan Yipin, caught in the middle of the Gu family''s internal affairs, shook his head slightly, as if foreseeing the oue.


    Daxuan Wang, however, kept staring intensely at Duke Qitian. Seeing Duke Qitian''s expression and movements, he took a deep breath, closed his eyes lightly for a moment, then opened them again.

 Chapter 367: Zhong Shan Forces the Culprit to Reveal Himself

    <h4>Chapter 367: Zhong Shan Forces the Culprit to Reveal Himself</h4>


    Ying Ning''s soul had vanished. She could no longer rify the matter for Princess Qian You, nor could she testify for Zhong Shan. Yet, Zhong Shan wasn''t anxious��in fact, he was quite satisfied.


    For Zhong Shan had already determined the true culprit: Marquis Qi Tian. Moreover, with Ying Ning''s recent appearance, Marquis Qi Tian''sposure had been thoroughly disrupted.


    Once the rhythm is disturbed, the heart follows, leading to a chaotic mind. And now, it was time to draw him into Zhong Shan''s own rhythm.


    "Your Majesty, esteemed members of the Gu n, and honorable ministers, please direct your attention to this Fengshen Bow and Fengshen Arrow!" Zhong Shan dered, grasping the green Fengshen Bow and Arrow.


    Everyone''s eyes turned towards him.


    "These are the murder weapons in the Ying Ning case��the Fengshen Bow and Fengshen Arrow. Just now, Marquis Qi Tian imed that Princess Qian You used them to kill Ying Ning. If so, how did she bring them into the mansion? On that day, the mansion was crowded with guests. Who saw Princess Qian You carrying such a bow and arrow?" Zhong Shan asked, scanning the crowd.


    No one responded; all remained silent.


    "The Fengshen Bow and Arrow are ninth-grade treasures imbued with spirit. Treasures containing spirits cannot be stored in spatial rings. Princess Qian You has only just reached the Emperor Extreme Realm, as many are aware. In such a short time, it would be impossible for her to refine and merge these treasures into her body. Therefore, it is absolutely certain that the bow and arrow were not carried by Princess Qian You," Zhong Shan stated with conviction.


    The ministers nodded in agreement, and the Gu n members on the periphery also acknowledged Zhong Shan''s words. Indeed, what Zhong Shan said made sense.


    "Haha, if Princess Qian You didn''t bring the bow and arrow into the mansion, perhaps they were hidden there before? Or maybe someone else brought them in?" Marquis Qi Tian countered swiftly, evidently realizing the w in his previous usation against Princess Qian You.


    "Hidden in the mansion before? Princess Qian You hadn''t visited Ying Ning''s mansion for years prior to the incident. Over several years, no one found such a conspicuous bow and arrow hidden in the mansion? Brought in by someone else? I''ve reviewed the list of gifts from that day. Only one person delivered arge package to Lady Ying Ning, and that was Lord Ma Zhuiyi," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Zhong Shan, how dare you nder me! I was the first to discover the crime scene. How could it possibly be me?" Ma Zhuiyi eximed, his eyes widening in panic.


    "Perhaps you conspired with Princess Qian You?" Marquis Qi Tian quickly turned to shift the me, seizing the opportunity to sacrifice Ma Zhuiyi to sustain his own narrative. As long as Princess Qian You was convicted, he had no qualms about throwing Ma Zhuiyi under the bus��even though Ma Zhuiyi was his uncle.


    "Marquis Qi Tian, you��!" Ma Zhuiyi red in outrage.


    "It wasn''t Lord Ma Zhuiyi. His package contained five ice toads for Lady Ying Ning''s pets, and it hasn''t been unwrapped to this day. Moreover, the package wasn''trge enough to contain a bow as tall as a person. The Fengshen Bow is simply too long," Zhong Shan interjected, dismissing the usation.


    "Thank you, Lord Zhong Shan!" Ma Zhuiyi expressed his profound gratitude towards Zhong Shan. In the midst of this court confrontation, with the Emperor presiding over the judgment, any adverse oue could spell his doom. He had never imagined his own nephew would use him at such a critical moment.


    Marquis Qi Tian''s mind was in turmoil, his previous calmness entirely vanished. Now, he was filled with an overwhelming agitation, with one singr goal in mind: to ensure Princess Qian You''s conviction, no matter the cost.


    The ministers watched in silence, finding the case increasinglyplex and baffling. The charges against Princess Qian You seemed to grow more tenuous by the moment, especially since the Fengshen Bow and Arrow were clearly not brought in by her.


    "If Lord Ma Zhuiyi didn''t bring them in, then how did the Fengshen Bow and Arrow end up in Ying Ning''s mansion?" Marquis Qi Tian demanded, fixing his gaze on Zhong Shan.


    "The Fengshen Bow was already in the mansion, just as Princess Qian You stated, it was brought out by Ying Ning. As for the Fengshen Arrow, it was naturally kept by the real murderer," Zhong Shan asserted with utmost confidence.


    "Haha! When Qian You''s biological father died, Ying Ning was only three years old. Are you saying that a three-year-old Ying Ning had the ability to hide the Fengshen Bow?" Marquis Qi Tian retorted, staring at Zhong Shan.


    "The Fengshen Bow wasn''t obtained by Ying Ning back then; it was given to her by the murderer," Zhong Shan responded, fixing his gaze on Marquis Qi Tian.


    Under Zhong Shan''s scrutinizing eyes, an inexplicable panic seized Marquis Qi Tian''s heart. But having endured the earlier ordeal with Ying Ning''s soul, he wasn''t about to be cowed by Zhong Shan''s gaze now.


    "You keep harping on the murderer. If it''s not Qian You, then who do you think the real culprit is?" Marquis Qi Tian demanded, taking a deep breath to steady himself.


    "The murderer is��" Zhong Shan''s voice drew out, echoing through the hall as he surveyed the court from side to side.


    As Zhong Shan''s words hung in the air, almost everyone felt their hearts tighten with anticipation. Finally, the moment of revtion was at hand.


    Marquis Qi Tian, seeing Zhong Shan''s deliberate pace, swallowed nervously. Anxiety gnawed at him; who was Zhong Shan going to use? As the real culprit, Marquis Qi Tian desperately wanted the matter settled, his heart moring for an end to this tension.


    Zhong Shan''s gaze swept across the room, then abruptly fixed on Marquis Qi Tian as he thundered, "You, Marquis Qi Tian!"


    The sudden shout from Zhong Shan, directly naming Marquis Qi Tian, felt like an overwhelming force crashing down. The sheer intensity caused Marquis Qi Tian to involuntarily step back, a sheen of cold sweat breaking out on his forehead.


    The court erupted in murmurs of astonishment. Marquis Qi Tian? Could Zhong Shan truly be using Marquis Qi Tian?


    "Hahaha! Haha! Hahaha!" Marquis Qi Tian''sughter rang hollow, tinged with fear.


    "Ying Ning was my own sister! How could I possibly kill her? Zhong Shan, have you gone mad? Are you just throwing baseless usations?" Marquis Qi Tian shouted, his voice trembling with incredulity.


    "Your own sister? It was precisely because Ying Ning trusted you as her brother that she fell into your hands," Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    "Why would I kill Ying Ning? Your usations make no sense. Are you trying to nder me without any evidence or logic?" Marquis Qi Tian retorted, trying to mask his unease with a veneer of calm.


    "Hmph! ''If you don''t want people to know, don''t do it.'' You want to know why? I''ll tell you why��because of your greed, your selfishness, your callousness. Long ago, Gu Lin and Princess Qian You had a marriage contract. But after bing a princess, Qian You had the right to decide her own future and rejected the marriage. Gu Lin, unwilling to ept this, became Marquis Qi Tian and continued to try to win back Princess Qian You''s favor. But matters of the heart cannot be forced. So, you thought of the marriage contract, determined to strip Princess Qian You of her title. Once she was no longer a princess, you, Marquis Qi Tian, could use the marriage contract to bind her. To bring down Princess Qian You, you concocted this scheme," Zhong Shan stated, eyes never leaving Marquis Qi Tian.


    "Ying Ning, a member of the Gu n, was favored by the Elder of Heaven and was soon to be elevated to princess status. She had significant connections to Princess Qian You. Despite being your sister, she was the perfect target for your plot. You first manipted Ying Ning, telling her that Princess Qian You possessed the ''Xun Ding Body.'' Knowing the Elder of Heaven would choose another disciple if he learned this, you lent Ying Ning the Fengshen Bow, leading her to test Qian You. You then hid in the shadows, waiting for the right moment. At the sound of a loud noise, you made sure Ma Zhuiyi came to investigate. As he approached, you used the Fengshen Arrow to kill Ying Ning, and then you fled the scene, only arriving at the mansionter, mingling with the other guests," Zhong Shan revealed.


    "Does my hypothesis not fit perfectly, Marquis Qi Tian?" Zhong Shan asked, his eyes boring into Qi Tian.


    Every word Zhong Shan spoke mirrored the truth, exactly as it had happened. Cold sweat dripped more heavily from Marquis Qi Tian''s brow. Under normal circumstances, Marquis Qi Tian would haveughed it off, as Zhong Shan had no solid proof. But today, Qi Tian''sposure had shattered; since the appearance of Ying Ning''s soul, his mind had been in chaos. He had fallen entirely into Zhong Shan''s rhythm, his emotions swayed by Zhong Shan''s every word.


    At this point, defeat was inevitable.


    From a distance, Fan Yipin shook his head, already convinced of the oue. The four princes and the Grand Tutor turned their attention to Zhong Shan, their expressions grave. Emperor Gu Shentong continued to wait patiently.


    "Hahaha! Hahaha! Hahaha!" Marquis Qi Tian''sughter echoed through the hall, a dry, desperate sound. He seemed to be using theughter to mask his inner fear. The deeply hidden truth had been exposed before everyone, and the marquis''s incessantughter was an attempt to cover his panic while he desperately tried to devise a response. But with his mind in disarray, how could hee up with a usible excuse? Moreover, facing the shrewd and experienced Zhong Shan, the rtively immature Marquis Qi Tian found it impossible to maintain hisposure.


    "Marquis Qi Tian, what are youughing at?" Zhong Shan pressed, his tone sharp.


    "I''mughing at your absurd and idiotic hypothesis! It''splete nonsense!" Marquis Qi Tian shot back, losing hisposure and resorting to insults, abandoning the poise and decorum he usually maintained.


    "If it''s nonsense, then why are you sweating so much, Marquis Qi Tian? Isn''t that quite peculiar?" Zhong Shan retorted with a smile.


    At Zhong Shan''s words, Marquis Qi Tian instinctively wiped the cold sweat from his face, struggling toe up with an exnation. But Zhong Shan wasn''t about to let him recover. Zhong Shan''s strategy was to keep Qi Tian in a state of perpetual panic and defensive thinking.


    It''s like the human brain, where rity of thought is limited. If a person needs only a fraction of this rity to solve a problem, Zhong Shan''s goal was to overwhelm Qi Tian with multiple issues simultaneously, thereby exhausting his mental capacity.


    "Marquis Qi Tian, where were you at noon on the day of the incident?" Zhong Shan demanded abruptly.


    The court was silent, the hall entirely Zhong Shan''s stage. No one dared to interrupt.


    Startled by the sudden question, Marquis Qi Tian stammered, "I-I was at the Western Pavilion in Ying Ning''s mansion."


    This detail was recorded in the day''s reports, where it was noted that Marquis Qi Tian was alone and bored, drinking in the Western Pavilion. He had only emerged when he heard Ma Zhuiyi''s shouts.


    "What were you doing in the Western Pavilion?" Zhong Shan continued, his gaze unwavering.


    "Drinking," Marquis Qi Tian replied, his forehead slick with sweat.


    "What were you drinking?" Zhong Shan pressed on without pausing.


    "Dr-drinking... um, drinking..." Marquis Qi Tian stammered, his mind momentarily going nk.


    "Was it the Eight Immortals Brew?" Zhong Shan asked, staring intently at Marquis Qi Tian.


    The Eight Immortals Brew was a very rare and expensive wine, frequently enjoyed by the Gu n.


    "Yes, the Eight Immortals Brew!" Marquis Qi Tian seemed to snap back to reality and quickly answered,tching onto Zhong Shan''s suggestion.


    "The Eight Immortals Brew? On that day, the mansion''s banquet had all kinds of drinks, but not the Eight Immortals Brew," Zhong Shan said, narrowing his eyes.


    Marquis Qi Tian''s face froze. Panic surged within him.


    In reality, if Qi Tian had been calm, he could simply have imed to have brought the wine himself. But his mental rity was already stretched thin.


    "Did you bring it yourself?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Yes, I brought it myself. I was drinking my own wine," Marquis Qi Tian replied hastily, almost fearfully, as if afraid of not responding in time. His thoughts werepletely ensnared by Zhong Shan.


    "Why did you bring the Eight Immortals Brew? Did you know the banquet wouldn''t have it, or do you have a habit of bringing your own wine to parties?" Zhong Shan asked relentlessly.


    "I, I, I... Why should I answer that?" Marquis Qi Tian finally seemed to muster some resistance, his voice tinged with anger.


    "Indeed, why should you answer? Making a fool of yourself!" Zhong Shan mocked, a smirk ying on his lips.


    "Zhong Shan, you...!" Marquis Qi Tian red at Zhong Shan, his anger and anxiety palpable.


    "And you''re sweating even more!" Zhong Shan remarked, his face disying an almost innocent curiosity as he pointed to the sweat streaming down Qi Tian''s face.


    Qi Tian instinctively wiped his face, panic written all over his features.


    "You''ve been burning incense at Ying Ning''s shrine every day. Did she visit you in your dreams? What did she say to you?" Zhong Shan continued his relentless questioning.


    Unable to bear it any longer, Marquis Qi Tian turned desperately to the Emperor. "Your Majesty, I...!"


    "Please, finish your story first. Everyone''s eager to hear. What exactly were you doing at noon that day?" Zhong Shan cut in with a sly grin, steering the conversation back.


    "I already told you! I was drinking at the Western Pavilion!" Qi Tian shouted, his fear causing him to nearly scream. His chest heaved with anxiety as he fixed his eyes on Zhong Shan, feeling more cornered than ever.


    Zhong Shan shook his head. "I wasn''t talking about the noon on the day she was killed. I meant the day before!"


    Without thinking, Qi Tian, in his agitated state, blurted out, "The day before she was killed, at noon, I was...!"


    A collective gasp echoed through the hall.


    "Whaaaaaa..."


    "Whaaaaaa..."


    "Whaaaaaa..."


    The court erupted into chaos. Officials and members of the Gu n alike were astounded, their voices filling the room with shocked whispers and exmations. Qi Tian had admitted it? He had confessed to killing Ying Ning? The specifics of what he had been doing the day before noon became irrelevant; what mattered was that he had acknowledged killing Ying Ning. He had killed his own sister, right in front of the Gu n and the entire court.


    As soon as Qi Tian spoke, Zhong Shan''s face grew solemn��he had seeded. Without wasting a moment, he grabbed the green Wind God Bow and Wind God Arrow beside him.


    Qi Tian stood there, frozen mid-sentence, his mind unable to process what had just happened.


    "The day before she was killed?"


    "The day before she was killed?"


    "The day before she was killed?"


    How could he have said that? How could he have admitted it?


    The truth had been exposed, and it hade straight from his own mouth.

 Chapter 368: The Eastern Lord

    <h4>Chapter 368: The Eastern Lord</h4>


    "That noon, the day before killing her!" Qi Tianhou suddenly muttered, recalling the words he had just spoken. Did he just confess?


    The court was in an uproar. Although Zhong Shan had earlier used Qi Tianhou of being the mastermind behind the murder, there had been no evidence to prove it. Many people didn''t believe Zhong Shan''s usation. After all, he was using Qi Tianhou, Ying Ning''s own brother. Who would believe that Qi Tianhou would do such a thing? But with the emperor present, no one dared to act out of turn. They could only take their ces and watch the situation unfold, wondering how Zhong Shan would embarrass himself with no evidence.


    How could he use Qi Tianhou without evidence? If such usations were epted without proof, then could anyone in the court bebeled a criminal just based on someone''s words? At first, everyone looked at Zhong Shan with a hint of disdain, but as the confrontation between Zhong Shan and Qi Tianhou progressed, Qi Tianhou became increasingly agitated, causing some officials to feel slightly suspicious and hold their breath, awaiting the final oue.


    Did Qi Tianhou really just confess? He killed his own sister? Just for an outsider? To frame Princess Qian You, he actually killed his own sister? It''s too terrifying, too ruthless. Could someone from the Gu family really do such a thing?


    The entire court was shocked. The Gu family members were also in disbelief. Qi Tianhou, Gu Lin, actually killed his own sister? Unforgivable. The emperor is still on the throne, and he dares to kill his sister. Does that mean any of us from the Gu family could be killed whenever he wants? The Gu family members looked at Qi Tianhou with angry eyes.


    The anger towards Princess Qian You immediately shifted entirely onto Qi Tianhou. Among the Gu family members, Fan Yipin nced at Zhong Shan with a look of admiration and a hint of challenge.


    Huan Tulong, looking at Zhong Shan, let out a long sigh and smiled slightly.


    Zheng Yi Wang, his gaze shifting between Zhong Shan and Princess Qian You, closed his eyes gently, remaining silent.


    Da Xuan Wang, who had been watching Qi Tianhou intently, furrowed his brows and took a deep breath.


    Tai Zong Wang, always with a gentle smile like a spring breeze, nced at Zhong Shan, then at Zheng Yi Wang, and smiled faintly.


    Zhan Tian Wang''s eyes showed a hint of admiration, a bit of expectation, and a touch of ferocity.


    Tian Lao, with a cold gaze, looked at Qi Tianhou and said nothing.


    Princess Qian You, at the moment the court erupted, clenched her fists in excitement, looking as if she might jump up at any moment. It was too thrilling, too stimting, too exciting. At this moment, Princess Qian You, filled with gratitude, felt like rushing over to Zhong Shan, hugging him, and kissing him. This man had fulfilled his promise.


    "I remember now, that day Qi Tianhou told me to keep a close watch on the safety of the residence. The residence had never had any trouble before, but he suddenly told me to keep an eye out, which made me very sensitive. That''s why, when I heard a loud noise in the courtyard, I went to check while others didn''t." Ma Zhui Ri suddenly used Qi Tianhou.


    Qi Tianhou''s reputation was instantly tarnished. Ma Zhui Ri, who had been framed by him before, now showed no mercy in using him. Ma Zhui Ri''s usation seemed to snap Qi Tianhou out of his stupor.


    Qi Tianhou immediately fixed his gaze on Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan, it''s always you. From the incident in the sea of flowers to the Wan Yuan Valley, and now the Ying Ning incident, every time, it was you. You destroyed me every single time.


    "It''s you again, it''s you. Qian You was supposed to be mine!" Qi Tianhou said fiercely, ring at Zhong Shan.


    With that, Qi Tianhou drew his purple-gold dragon-patterned staff and, before the entire court, with a face full of hatred, swung it at Zhong Shan.


    The whole court was in shock. Who would dare to act recklessly in the grand hall of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty?


    Qi Tianhou''s strike was incredibly fast, almost instantly reaching Zhong Shan''s face.


    Qi Tianhou, with the power of ate Nascent Soul cultivator, wielded a ninth-grade magical weapon, the Purple-Gold Dragon Patterned Staff. Zhong Shan, on the other hand, was only at the tenth level of the Golden Core stage. Many were worried for Zhong Shan.


    Would Zhong Shan be worried? What kind of person is Zhong Shan? He had anticipated Qi Tianhou''s desperate reaction. Zhong Shan was well-prepared, having made his preparations earlier.


    Zhong Shan''s current state was fully armed: holding the Holy Sword in his left hand, the Wind God Bow in his right, the Wind God Arrow at his waist, and a Purple Wood Cotton Cassock protecting his chest beneath his clothing.


    These were all ninth-grade magical treasures, equipping him to the fullest extent. With the Holy Sword in his left hand, the divine bow in his right, the divine arrow at his waist, and the cassock on his chest, Zhong Shan was ready to face any challenge. He stared intently at the iing strike from Qi Tianhou''s staff.


    A ninth-grade magical treasure, the Purple Wood Cotton Cassock had once blocked a strike from a Sovereign Realm Ape Heart. Could it now fail against Qi Tianhou?


    "Impudence!" A sudden angry shout from Gu Shentong reverberated through the hall, like a thunderous decree from the heavens. The shout was so powerful that it shook the hearts of everyone in the hall, even startling Zhong Shan.


    Simultaneously, dark clouds gathered over the Taigu Holy Capital, with thunder rumbling as if responding to Gu Shentong''s wrath. The citizens of the capital looked up at the sky, filled with awe.


    The heavens were angry! The emperor was angry! All eyes turned towards the center of the Taigu Mountain.


    The angered shout directly impacted Qi Tianhou, who was paralyzed in ce. He stood there, staff in hand, frozen in that moment.


    Qi Tianhou''s eyes were filled with terror, unable to move, as if encased in ice. But this encasement was far tougher than ice, immobilizing even his spiritual consciousness. The only thing he could move were his eyes.


    The emperor was enraged!


    Under this divine wrath, no one dared to speak. Everyone remained silent.


    Qi Tianhou, filled with fear, nced at Gu Shentong and then looked fiercely at Zhong Shan across from him.


    "Shen Qitian, because of your past rtionship with the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty, I bestowed upon you the title of ''Qi Tianhou.'' I never imagined that after reincarnating into the Gu n, you would create chaos among my descendants, killing Ying Ning, and even attempting to deceive the heavens and frame Qian You. You regard my Great Luo Celestial Dynasty as nothing. Today, I will not strip you of your cultivation, but the past favors from the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty are now repaid. I revoke your Gu n name, ''Gu Lin,'' and strip you of the title ''Qi Tianhou.'' From now on, you are to leave the Taigu Holy Capital immediately and be out of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty''s territory within six months. Otherwise, I will make sure you reincarnate again!" the emperor said angrily.


    As soon as the emperor finished speaking, a massive green beam of light descended from the sky over the Taigu Holy Capital, seemingly a mighty force from the stars, directly striking Qi Tianhou''s mansion.


    "Boom!"


    With a deafening roar, Qi Tianhou''s mansion was reduced to dust. Most of the ape-like creatures inside were killed instantly, except for one that escaped in time. This was Yuan Fei, one of the two strongest apes from the Wan Yuan Valley.


    Inside the Taigu Holy Hall, Qi Tianhou��or rather, Shen Qitian��was struck by an overwhelming force when Gu Shentong red at him. Shen Qitian wasunched like a cannonball, crashing out of the Taigu Holy Hall and shooting far to the south.


    "Poof!"


    In mid-air, Shen Qitian regained movement and spat out a mouthful of blood, his body still propelled outward.


    Yuan Fei, flying in the distance, saw Shen Qitian emerging and immediately sped towards him.


    After five breaths, Shen Qitian finally managed to stabilize himself, but upon looking around, he realized he was already outside the Taigu Holy Capital.


    <strong>At the peak of Sovereign Realm, Yuan Fei flew desperately, but even at his best speed, he couldn''t keep up with Shen Qitian, who was retreating involuntarily faster than he could advance.</strong>


    By the time Yuan Fei reached him, Shen Qitian was standing on the summit of a mountain, squinting his eyes as he gazed north. He wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and showed a ferocious expression.


    "Your Excellency! What happened?" Yuan Fei asked anxiously.


    "We can no longer stay in the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty!" Shen Qitian replied with a deep sense of resentment.


    In the west of the Taigu Holy Capital, in a hidden valley, there was a cave where a red-d woman sat cross-legged inplete silence, as if dead. In front of hery a ck sword. At the moment when Shen Qitian was cast out of the Taigu Holy Capital by Gu Shentong''s gaze, the red-d woman suddenly opened her eyes, which shot out a burst of sword energy.


    "Boom!"


    Eight enormous sword energies erupted from the red-d woman''s body, instantly shattering the entire mountain.


    Amidst the lingering smoke, the red-d woman stood revealed, her face filled with hatred, and her eyes fixed on the distant direction where Shen Qitian was.


    "So, you''ve finallye out!" the red-d woman said with a voice full of venom.


    Then, with a single step, the red-d woman transformed into a giant surge of sword energy and shot rapidly in the direction of Shen Qitian.


    "Your Excellency, this is bad! Jian Hong ising. Quick, we must go!" Yuan Fei eximed in rm.


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!"


    With the case resolved and Qi Tianhou punished by the Emperor, all the courtiers, regardless of their thoughts, bowed in reverence to the Emperor.


    "Zhong Shan, hear the imperial decree!" Gu Shentong suddenly called out.


    "Your servant is here!" Zhong Shan responded immediately.


    "With the Yinging case resolved in a timely manner, your past military merits are restored. From this moment, I promote you to ''Third ss Duke of the East'' and appoint you as ''Vice Minister of Rites,'' rank of third ss!" Gu Shentong dered.


    As Gu Shentong''s words fell, a surge of golden light from all directions enveloped Zhong Shan''s body. An infinite flow of fortune connected to Zhong Shan, integrating his identity further with the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty''s destiny.


    Zhong Shan felt an indescribable sense offort envelop his entire being. In the sky above the Taigu Holy Capital, among the many statues of officials formed by the nation''s fortune, Zhong Shan''s statue quickly moved forward in rank.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!" Zhong Shan immediately bowed in gratitude.

 Chapter 369: Nascent Soul Stage

    <h4>Chapter 369: Nascent Soul Stage</h4>


    "Thank you, Your Majesty! Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor!" Zhong Shan bowed respectfully.


    A third-ss Duke, Third ss Duke of the East? Vice Minister of Rites? With such titles and positions, Zhong Shan would receive more and more of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty''s fortune. With such honors and identity, his cultivation speed, boosted by the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty''s fortune, instantly reached eight times its previous rate. Adding the fortune from the Dazeng Dynasty, Zhong Shan''s current cultivation speed was equivalent to that of a ''mid-rank being'' of the Heavenly Way. Tenfold.


    Tenfold cultivation speed. Now, cultivating for one hundred years was equivalent to a thousand years in the past.


    While Zhong Shan was grateful to the Emperor, the entire court frowned.


    Vice Minister of Rites? The Ministry of Rites? Why did Zhong Shan end up in the Ministry of Rites? Shouldn''t he have been assigned to the Ministry of War? The Ministry of Rites was essentially the department of foreign affairs. How could such a military talent be appointed as a diplomat?


    The officials in the court were puzzled, and even the four crown princes did not understand. Only Tian Lao nced meaningfully at Gu Shentong.


    "Thank you for Your Majesty''s trust fromst month. This is the Holy Sword you lent me. I now return it to Your Majesty!" Zhong Shan lifted the Holy Sword respectfully.


    "Hmm!" Gu Shentong nodded.


    Immediately, an eunuch carrying a tray approached. Zhong Shan gently ced the Holy Sword onto the tray.


    "Your Majesty, this Wind God Bow and Arrow, although the murder weapon in this case, should rightly be returned to the national treasury. However, I dare to request that Your Majesty return it to Princess Qianyou topensate for the grievances she has suffered over the past two months." Zhong Shan presented the Wind God Bow and Arrow.


    The Wind God Bow and Wind God Arrow originally belonged to Princess Qianyou''s father. Returning them to her was only right, and since Princess Qianyou was almost wrongfully punished because of them, Zhong Shan''s request seemed reasonable to all the officials, who nodded in agreement. No one found this request excessive.


    "Granted!" Gu Shentong agreed.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Princess Qianyou immediately expressed her gratitude.


    As Zhong Shan handed over the Wind God Bow and Arrow, Princess Qianyou did not look at the precious ninth-grade treasure. Instead, she looked at Zhong Shan with deep gratitude.


    Then, in front of everyone, Zhong Shan slowly drew out the Purple Cotton Kasaya from his chest.


    "Thank you, Tian Lao, for your assistance. This is my promise to you." Zhong Shan respectfully handed the Purple Cotton Kasaya to Tian Lao.


    Tian Lao looked at Zhong Shan with a frown, then smiled wickedly and took the Kasaya. He nced at Gu Shentong on the throne, who nodded slightly, as if only the two of them knew a secret.


    The four crown princes and Huan Tulong looked at the Purple Cotton Kasaya with curiosity, not understanding why Tian Lao valued it so much.


    By handing over the Purple Cotton Kasaya to Tian Lao in front of the entire court, Zhong Shan was telling everyone that this ninth-grade treasure was no longer in his possession. Those who coveted it should not bother him anymore. At the same time, Zhong Shan was indirectly sending a message to Jin Chan that he had been forced to give up the Kasaya.


    Tian Lao put away the Purple Cotton Kasaya, bowed slightly to Gu Shentong, and disappeared from the hall.


    "Your Majesty, although the southern war has just ended, my heart remains on the battlefield. I would like to request a long leave of absence, two to five years, to adjust myself and be in the best state to participate in the affairs of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty," Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    Huh? A leave of absence? The entire court looked at Zhong Shan with a strange expression. The court could be considered a sacred ce for cultivation in the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty. Here, one could sense the Emperor''s presence, thus correcting any missteps in one''s cultivation and progressing steadily. Through debates in the court, one could understand the principles of heaven and earth, advancing much faster than by sitting in closed-door cultivation. The higher one''s cultivation, the more insights one could gain. Moreover, court sessions were not held every day; there was only a morning court session once every ten days!


    Zhong Shan wanted a leave of absence? To adjust himself? The entire court broke out in a cold sweat. How could there be such a person?


    "Approved! ~~~~~~~~~~~~" The Emperor unexpectedly gave a bizarre approval! "Thank you, Your Majesty! ~~~~~~~~~~~~" Zhongshan immediately eximed with excitement. "Dismissed!" the Emperor said calmly. "Dismissed! ~~~~~~~~~~~~" shouted the eunuch beside him. "Long live the Emperor!" ����


    Two dayster, after Zhongshan had settled matters with Water Without Trace and Willow Without Equal in Dongfang Mansion, he swiftly headed towards Princess Qianyou''s residence with Zhihuo.


    During these two days, guests filled Princess Qianyou''s residence, including many previously aloof members of the Gu n who now came to apologize and make amends. Princess Qianyou personally received each one. It was only today that the residence finally quieted down.


    Upon entering Princess Qianyou''s residence, Zhihuo immediately followed Ah Da and Ah Er from a distance, allowing Zhongshan to leisurely walk towards Qianyou Hall.


    In front of Qianyou Hall stood Princess Qianyou, looking lively and beautiful.


    Today, Princess Qianyou was dressed borately, with a delicate face, soft long hair, graceful figure, heaving bosom that rose and fell with each breath, shapely buttocks, and a pair of legs that could captivate all. She was presenting herself to Zhongshan in her most enchanting form.


    As Zhongshan approached step by step, Princess Qianyou gazed at him with infatuation.


    When Zhongshan came close, Princess Qianyou joyfully eximed, "You''re here!"


    Without a word, Zhongshan reached out and embraced Princess Qianyou, gently bringing his face closer. Princess Qianyou''s eyes flickered with a hint of panic, her face blushing, then she closed her eyes, allowing Zhongshan''s lips to meet hers.


    A long, deep kiss followed, with Zhongshan domineeringly silent throughout.


    "Mwah ~~~~~~~~~~~~" As they parted, a strand of saliva connected their flushed faces like a cupping mark.


    Princess Qianyou''s face waspletely red. As her eyshes fluttered, she saw the strand of saliva still linking their mouths. She immediately closed her eyes in embarrassment.


    "Hahaha!" Zhongshan burst intoughter, bent slightly, and effortlessly lifted Princess Qianyou in his arms.


    "Ahhhh ~~~~~~~~~~~~" Princess Qianyou was startled, but in her confusion, she instinctively clung to Zhongshan''s neck.


    Carrying Princess Qianyou, Zhongshan walked into Qianyou Hall. The doors thunderously closed behind them.


    "Boom ~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Inside Qianyou Hall, Zhongshan gently ced Princess Qianyou on a jade bed. Sensing what was toe, Princess Qianyou blushed even deeper, closed her eyes, and waited as Zhongshan''s body pressed firmly against hers.


    The next day, in Princess Qianyou''s chamber, sunlight streamed through the skylight, casting a warm glow on the jade bed where Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou were entangled. Zhongshany there with his eyes closed, as if asleep.


    Princess Qianyouy on Zhongshan''s chest, gently stroking his face while gazing at him, feeling content. She nestled her face against his chest in happiness.


    Her legs, as beautiful as jade, wrapped around Zhongshan''s left leg, revealing a hint of her inner thigh. Princess Qianyou blushed inexplicably and reached over to lightly cover them with a clean sheet. She then took out a handkerchief and gently wiped away the traces of her blood from Zhongshan''s lower body with tenderness.


    Resting against Zhongshan''s chest, Princess Qianyou inexplicably felt a wave of peace. At the same time, she knew Zhongshan wasn''t sleeping but breaking through.


    Zhongshan had achieved a breakthrough. Since receiving more qi from Daluo in the ancient capital, there had already been signs of breakthrough. On that day, if it were anyone else, they would have broken through long ago. Only Zhongshan''s constitution could withstand the flood of breakthrough.


    However, in the instant of intimacy with Qianyou, Zhongshan finally broke through. Perhaps it was due to the nature of being solitary yang and not growing solitary yin, that Zhongshan finally felt a surge of yin energy entering his body at thest moment, finally condensing his primordial infant. Of course, the most crucial factor was Qianyou''s pure and unadulterated body.


    The body of the Nine Cauldrons was the pinnacle sacred object for dual cultivation. Especially for the first time. The shackles of the Golden Core stage finally broke through because of this.


    In the moment Zhongshan sensed it in the Purple Mansion, his mind sank into his body.


    Inside the Purple Mansion, arge amount of pure yang energy rapidly gathered. It was already at the critical point, and at this moment, it seemed to just break through that critical point, rapidly converging towards the center. It formed a growing jelly-like mass.


    In an instant, it all gathered at the very center and guided Zhongshan''s body parts, slowly transforming, gradually forming a small figure the size of a fist that was identical to Zhongshan.


    As Zhongshan''s consciousness entered, the small figure slowly opened its eyes and looked at the vast world of the Purple Mansion through Zhongshan''s perspective.


    Yuanying! This was Yuanying. With the formation of Yuanying, Zhongshan felt connected to heaven and earth, connected to the energy of heaven and earth. No wonder those in the Yuanying stage could ride clouds and mist, because Zhongshan could already sense the energy of wind and water vapor around him. With just a slight gathering of Yuanying, he could condense water vapor into a white cloud.


    Although it was only the most basic spell, the wonders of it were something that could never be described in the Golden Core stage. From this moment on, Zhongshan truly stepped into the era of "Dao".


    Yuanying stage, he had finally reached the Yuanying stage!


    As all the pure yang energypletely transformed into Yuanying, beside Yuanying, the ink jade talisman suddenly trembled.


    Zhongshan was slightly stunned. With a gentle gesture, the ink jade talisman appeared in the hand of Yuanying. It was held firmly.


    Yuanying attempted to study it, but no matter what, it couldn''t be activated, and even the spell was blocked by the ink jade talisman.


    Perhaps the ink jade talisman had been in Zhongshan''s Purple Mansion for too long and had established a faint connection with the pure yang energy. Although Zhongshan couldn''t fully control the talisman, it was as if he and the talisman had a tacit understanding. With a gentle wave of Yuanying''s hand, countless phantom talismans suddenly appeared around the ink jade talisman, simr to the sealing talismans used in Sealing Spirit City, sealing heaven, earth, gods, and spirits.


    Zhongshan opened his eyes.


    "Whoosh ~~~~~~~~~~~" Suddenly, the entire hall was filled with endless phantom talismans. Talismans covered everything, even Princess Qianyou''s forehead.


    Everything in the hall was immobilized. Even Princess Qianyou was sealed?


    Zhongshan''s eyes widened. He called out to Princess Qianyou, but there was no response.


    Zhongshan tried to retract these talismans, but no matter what, he couldn''t. Zhongshan only knew how to release, not to retract.


    An hour passed. After waiting for an hour, the numerous talismans turned into faint shadows andpletely disappeared.


    PS: He had reached the Yuanying stage, finally reached the Yuanying stage. The fourth volume has also officially ended. Tomorrow, we will officially enter the fifth volume, ''Heaven and Earth''. Zhongshan''s bold era ising. By the way, guess what Zhongshan will do on his long vacation? o(��_��)o~

 Chapter 370: The Imperial Plan

    <h4>Chapter 370: The Imperial n</h4>


    "You''re awake?" Princess Qianyou softly asked as the talismans disappeared.


    Zhongshan raised an eyebrow, looking at Princess Qianyou with some confusion. He really hadn''t noticed anything?


    "Hold on a moment," Zhongshan said, closing his eyes again. His consciousness once more sank into the Purple Mansion.


    Yuanying held the ink jade talisman and waved it again, but it seemed that the energy had been depleted, and there were no more phantom talismans.


    "Huh?" Zhongshan frowned slightly. Could it be that this ink jade talisman needed some time before it could be used again?


    Since he couldn''t figure it out, Zhongshan opened his eyes.


    "What''s wrong?" Princess Qianyou asked with confusion.


    "Yuanying stage, achieved!" Zhongshan said.


    "Thanks to you!" Zhongshan smiled and ced his hand on Princess Qianyou''s perfect **.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, Princess Qianyou blushed and shyly responded with a soft "Hmm."


    "After court two days ago, what did you ask the Emperor?" Zhongshan asked.


    "I asked about you!"


    "Me?"


    "Yes, I knew you were about to break through, so I asked the Emperor for a cultivation technique for you," Princess Qianyou said.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan was surprised.


    "The Emperor said yourprehension is extremely high, able to perceive the rules of thunder. Each stroke on ''Manjiangong'' is inscribed upon the rules of thunder?" Princess Qianyou blinked her big eyes and looked at Zhongshan.


    "Thunder rules? Just thunder rules?" Zhongshan raised an eyebrow.


    Could it be that what he had previously seen as the rules of heaven and earth were merely the rules of thunder? If that were true, and the rules of thunder had already made the world resemble a spider''s web, then how powerful could all the rules of heaven and earth be?


    "Yes, the Emperor said so. Very few people canprehend the rules of thunder. It''s almost impossible to perceive the thunder rules at such a cultivation level, but you actually did it. That''s why you''re naturally gifted. No wonder it attracted the ''heavenly thunder'' that day," Princess Qianyou smiled.


    "Well, maybe!" Zhongshan smiled wryly.


    Turning around, Princess Qianyou produced a jade slip from her hand.


    "This is a cultivation technique from the Emperor''s treasury, called ''Thunder Foundation **''. It''s the foundation of all thunder in the world, a basic cultivation technique, and also a technique for the Yuanying stage. There are ten levels in total, perfectly suited for you!" Princess Qianyou gently said.


    Seeing the cultivation technique in Princess Qianyou''s hand, Zhongshan took a deep breath and gratefully put away ''Thunder Foundation **'', then affectionately kissed Princess Qianyou on the forehead.


    Princess Qianyou seemed to enjoy this moment of happiness very much and smiled.


    "Rest for two days. I''ll take you somewhere," Zhongshan said after some thought.


    "Huh? Where?" Princess Qianyou asked in confusion.


    "Tiang Ind, where I came from. I''ll take you to meet my rtives!" Zhongshan said.


    "Huh? Why wait two days? We can leave now!" Princess Qianyou puzzled.


    "Let''s wait for two days. Wait for your injury to heal!" Zhongshan smiled.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Princess Qianyou blushed and angrily punched Zhongshan''s chest.


    "Hahaha," Zhongshanughed heartily ��


    In a remote city in the southern part of the Divine Land.


    Inside a chain of inns belonging to the Daryun Merchant Guild, in a private room, a man with a ck veil hat covering his face sat. The innkeeper stood in front of him, carefully examining a token in his hand for a while. Then, respectfully returned it to the man.


    At the same time, the innkeeper handed a piece of paper to the man and immediately withdrew.


    The man opened the note and carefully read the nine words written on it.


    "Prepare for war, ascend the Imperial Dynasty."


    After reading these words, the man''s hand trembled, and the note turned into powder.


    "Master, is it starting? The Dark Emperor will soon return!" the man whispered softly.


    Tiang Ind, Great Luo Dynasty, Changsheng Hall.


    Hidden Zhongshan sat upon the throne, overlooking the entire hall.


    "Wei Taizhong!" Zhongshan called out.


    Wei Taizhong, the Chief Manager of the Inner Pce, Kui Er''s third brother, who had always remained unknown.


    "Here!" Wei Taizhong immediately walked to the center of the hall.


    "Set up the ''Altar of Heaven'', offering to the heavens above and the earth below!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Wei Taizhong promptly responded before withdrawing from the hall.


    "Yi Yan!" Zhongshan called again.


    "Present!" Yi Yan responded immediately.


    "How is the northernyout progressing?" Zhongshan asked.


    "In the north, there are the Yin Yue Dynasty and the three major dynasties. The Great Ming Dynasty has been mostly sidelined by our people. We await Your Majesty''smand to officially begin the ''Imperial n'', stirring up chaos in the northern territories. After four months, the Great Luo Dynasty can fully advance on the northern battlefield, seizing the fortunes of the northern dynasties and elerating our dynasty''s ascension," Yi Yan said in a steady tone.


    "Good, Yi Yan, lead the Third Legion to oversee this matter. Effective immediately, the Imperial n is officially implemented," Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Yi Yan responded promptly.


    Yi Yan stepped aside.


    "Lin Xiao, Ying Lan!" Zhongshan called next.


    "Present!" Lin Xiao and Ying Lan immediately stepped forward.


    "You two will lead the First and Second Legions. From the east and west of Tiang Ind, you will subdue all major sects. Except for the Yang Sect, all other sects must either submit, leave Tiang Ind, or be destroyed!" Zhongshanmanded.


    "Yes!" Both immediately acknowledged.


    "Announce to the world that every three years, the Great Luo Dynasty will hold a nationwide imperial examination to select outstanding talents to strengthen the nation!" Zhongshan issued another order.


    "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live!" the courtiers cheered loudly.


    The Great Luo Dynasty actively prepared for the impending Imperial advancement battle. Meanwhile, above the East Sea.


    Princess Qianyou stood on a white cloud, quietly watching below. Down below, Zhongshan''s true body stood silently on a calm sea, eyes closed, arms spread out, head lifted.


    "Rise~~~~~~~~"


    Zhongshan softly called out.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, a huge thunderbolt descended from the sky in front of Zhongshan, creating a massive hole in the sea with a deafening roar, causing the waves to surge around the crater.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~"


    "Boom~~~~~~~~"


    To Zhongshan''s left and right, two more thunderbolts struck down from the sky, causing the sea under Zhongshan''s feet to churn violently.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~Boom~~~~~~~~Boom~~~~~~~~Boom~~~~~~~~"


    Continuous thunderbolts struck down, surrounding Zhongshan from all directions. In an instant, the sky was filled with thunder and rain, pouring down endlessly, while Zhongshan stood at the center of this spectacr thunderstorm.


    Within a radius of ten miles, it was filled with thunder and lightning, thunder pouring down from the sky like the copse of heaven and earth, as if the world was ending.


    Underneath, the sea was rapidly sinking due to the relentless magical attacks of Zhongshan, while waves as tall as mountains surged outward for ten miles.


    "Lei Ji**! This is Lei Ji**! Along with Zhongshan''s own abilities, it''s the most difficult energy to control in this world. But before Zhongshan, it seemed toe and go at hismand.


    First Stage of Yuan Ying! Crossing the threshold of the Golden Core stage, Zhongshan''s luck rushed towards him like a flood. Plus, with Princess Qianyou''s "care" these days, Zhongshan has been practicing top-level Yuan Ying stage techniques. Added to his naturally thunderous physique and intermittent ability to see thunder rules, Zhongshan has finally reached the first stage of Yuan Ying.


    Thunder roared down, and Zhongshan appeared extremely exuberant. This Thunderstorm was not the first time Zhongshan had demonstrated such power in the East Sea. Many fish in the sea had already died from Zhongshan''s thunder.


    At this moment, Zhongshan opened his eyes and his psychic energy immediately filled them, causing the world to shatter once again.


    "Ha~~~"


    Zhongshan swung his sword fiercely towards the sea. This swing seemed to gather all the thunder, and a huge sword mark appeared on the sea.


    "Tian Tiao! Cut the waves!"


    "Boom~~~"


    Under the sword, the sea was torn open nearly two kilometers deep. This terrifying sh was not over yet, as arge amount of thunder exploded in the deep sea.


    "Boom~~~"


    Lightning shed at the bottom of the sea, and many deep-sea fish fell unconscious and slowly floated to the surface.


    "Hoo~~~"


    Zhongshan finally exhaled deeply and stood still.


    The sea continued to surge, and the corpses of fish continued to float to the surface.


    In a sea canyon in the East Sea, there was a formation inside that isted seawater from the outside, making it dry and clear inside. Numerous night pearls illuminated the entire sea canyon, with many pavilions and buildings built within.


    In one of the pces in the canyon, a gracefully dressed woman, Haomeili, stood quietly. A small golden dragon, about a foot long, hovered over her shoulder.


    Before Haomeili, a man said respectfully, "Miss, we''ve investigated what you''ve been concerned about these days. The source of the multiple thunder and lightning explosions in the East Sea is one of the targets you depicted, likely ''Zhongshan''."


    "Oh? Where is he?" Haomeili asked.


    "He''s located three thousand miles south of here," the man replied respectfully.


    Haomeili frowned and after a moment of thought, narrowed her eyes. "You may leave."


    "Yes!" The man immediately agreed and quickly left the hall.


    "Little Golden, the old man hasn''t returned yet. Let''s go out for a walk." Haomeili looked at the small golden dragon.


    The small golden dragon nodded in agreement.


    Immediately, Haomeili stepped out of the hall and threw the small golden dragon out. The body of the small golden dragon suddenly grewrger andrger, reaching a size of a hundred meters. Haomeili quickly jumped onto its back and flew towards the sea.

 Chapter 371 - 371 Six Paths

    <h4>Chapter 371: Six Paths</h4>


    Above the sea surface, Zhongshan took a deep breath. Princess Qianyou flew over immediately.


    "Are you really just in the Yuan Ying stage? This power, even at the peak of Yuan Ying, shouldn''t be like this!" Qianyou eximed in amazement.


    "It''s not about the realm being the same as the strength. Take Jian Hong and Yuan Fei for example, aren''t their realms different? Yet when Yuan Fei encounters Jian Hong, he can only flee in panic, and isn''t even Jian Hong''s match." Zhongshan said.


    "Mm!" Qianyou nodded.


    "Hehe, it won''t be long before we reach my Great Luo Dynasty." Zhongshan smiled.


    Princess Qianyou was somewhat worried, "Then, will Bao''er ept me?"


    "You should call her older sister!" Zhongshan frowned.


    "I know, you''re just bullying me!" Qianyou Princess said somewhat aggrieved.


    "It''s not that. There are certain things that must be rified in advance. Since ancient times, cultivating oneself is to govern the family and then pacify the world. With my Great Luo Dynasty, I will surely pacify the world. If a house is not swept, how can it sweep the world? If the family is not united, how can it stabilize the world? Although it''s a bit unfair to you, after all, Bao''er entered my Zhong family before you. I treat you all equally, but you cannot disturb the peace of the family because of this!" Zhongshan said softly.


    Pouting, Qianyou was somewhat helpless, but still nodded, "I understand. It''s just that I didn''t turn the corner for a while! I will definitely respect Elder Sister Bao''er in the future!"


    "No need, Bao''er is very easy to talk to! It''s hard on you." Zhongshan immediately lovingly stroked Princess Qianyou''s long hair.


    In fact, Zhongshan also knew that this was unfair to Qianyou. After all, Qianyou was a princess of the Heavenly Dynasty. To let a princess of the Heavenly Dynasty marry the monarch of the Great Luo Dynasty and still not be the first empress, anyone would feel aggrieved, especially such a proud princess of the Heavenly Dynasty?


    "No, with you by my side, nothing else matters!" Princess Qianyou immediately shook her head.


    Just as the two were about to say something else, their brows suddenly furrowed as they looked towards the sea.


    "Boom~~~"


    There was a sudden loud noise in front of them on the sea, and a golden dragon burst out of the water. Standing on the dragon''s head was the long-absent Haomeili.


    "Zhongshan!" Haomeili raised her head proudly.


    "Miss Haomeili, what are you doing here?" Zhongshan raised an eyebrow.


    "Howe there''s another woman again? Indeed, men are not good things." Haomeili said disdainfully.


    "Hehe, this is my wife, Gu Qianyou. Miss Haomeili, you still haven''t answered me." Zhongshan stared at Haomeili.


    "East Sea is my home. Why are you asking me when you''ve killed so many fish in my home?" Haomeili sneered.


    Zhongshan sighed helplessly, "So, what do you suggest?"


    "Why did youe to the East Sea?" Haomeili stared at Zhongshan and asked.


    "Just passing through the East Sea. I''m going home." Zhongshan replied truthfully.


    "Going home? Oh? Your home, Zhongshan''s home? It just so happens that I have nothing to dotely. I''ll go to your house and see how it is." Haomeili stared at Zhongshan.


    Hearing Haomeili''s words, both Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "Isn''t that inappropriate? The world is so big, why do you have to go to my house?" Zhongshan said unwillingly.


    "It''s settled then. I''m going to Zhongshan''s house. Let''s go!" Haomeili decisively said.


    Looking at Haomeili, Zhongshan smiled bitterly, "Alright, that direction!"


    With that, Zhongshan pointed in the direction of Tiang Ind.


    "Let''s go~~~"


    Haomeili rode on Xiao Jin, swiftly flying ahead, while Zhongshan and Princess Qianyou walked behind.


    "I can tell she definitely has some ulterior motives for seeking you out, and they''re not good ones," Princess Qianyou worriedly remarked.


    "I know," Zhongshan nodded.


    "Then why are you letting her apany us?" Princess Qianyou asked in confusion.


    "Because I owe her a favor," Zhongshan sighed lightly.


    "A favor? The Twelve Cities by the Sea, the incident where she flooded them on behalf of the Dragon n? Haven''t you already repaid that?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "It''s not that!" Zhongshan shook his head, saying nothing more.


    Tiang Ind, to the north, the Yin Yue Dynasty, ruled by Emperor "Six Paths". It was surrounded by three major dynasties.


    After years of war, the three major dynasties shared amon goal: to overthrow the Yin Yue Dynasty and seize its fortune, hoping to break free from the shackles of their own dynasties.


    The capital of the Yin Yue Dynasty, Jingling City!


    Outside the pce, Six Paths returned with a group of powerful individuals from the outside world, somewhat excited.


    Six Paths held a small turtle in his hand, but this turtle was extraordinarily strange, seeming to have two heads��one was a normal dark shell, while the other resembled a snake''s head, as if a snake and a turtle were parasitically living together within the shell.


    "This is my dynasty. You just ate a dragon ball. How about digesting it first, and then I''ll show you around?" Six Paths smiled.


    The strange little turtle immediately twisted its two heads and slowly retracted into its shell.


    "Xuanyan, you go with Xiaowu! Help it digest the dragon ball." Six Paths said to another very serious man in ck.


    "Yeah!" The man called "Xuanyan" nodded.


    Then, Xuanyan picked up the peculiar little turtle and walked slowly out with a general beside Six Paths.


    Six Paths watched Xiaowu leave, took a long breath, and sighed deeply.


    "Congrattions, Your Majesty. This time, you actually made a covenant with the Xuanwu n. The strength of my Yin Yue Dynasty has once again increased." A general immediately congratted.


    "It''s also luck. If I hadn''t saved Xiaowu in the South China Sea, Xiaowu wouldn''t have been so attached to me, and it wouldn''t have been so smooth. Thanks to Xiaowu." Six Paths took a deep breath, although modest, he couldn''t help but feel excited.


    Twenty-some years ago, missing the support of the Wolf n, and twenty yearster, unexpectedly gaining the support of the Xuanwu n, although the Xuanwu n was slightly weaker than the Wolf n, how many great ns on the Divine Continent could establish a covenant with such a great n?


    "Your Majesty, those three dynasties should no longer need to exist. In the past, we allowed them to exist to train our army andy the foundation for entering the Divine Continent in the future. Now, shouldn''t we get rid of them?" the previous general said.


    "Yeah, Your Majesty, with the support of the Xuanwu n, we can also eliminate the ''Great Luo Dynasty'' in the south. A covenant with the Wolf n? We can''t let them grow anymore." Another general said.


    "Yes, Your Majesty, once we unify Tiang Ind and take a short rest, we can march into the Divine Continent. Conspiring with several dynasties to overthrow a certain imperial dynasty and seize the imperial fortune, at that time, we can also promote the Yin Yue Dynasty." The previous general was extremely excited.


    Mr. Shi, on the side, remained silent, patiently observing.


    Six Paths looked at the two excited generals, nced at Mr. Shi, and finally shook his head. "To upgrade from a dynasty to an imperial dynasty, sufficient fortune is enough, but for a dynasty to upgrade to an imperial dynasty, mere fortune is far from enough. We also need something very precious."


    "Eh?" The generals exchanged puzzled nces.


    "The Imperial Jade Seal!" Liudao took a deep breath and spoke.


    "The Imperial Jade Seal?" The generals frowned in unison.


    "Yes, the Imperial Jade Seal. We must possess a genuine Imperial Jade Seal from history. As for the empire, don''t even think about it. Like the Holy Lands, it''s shrouded in mystery. No one knows how to ascend to the status of an empire. The only people who know are the emperors of the three great empires." Liudao exined.


    "Hm!" The generals furrowed their brows again.


    "Your Majesty, the Grand Empress is here!" A general suddenly called out respectfully.


    Everyone turned to look in the direction he was indicating. Indeed, a woman draped in a ck robe was approaching slowly.


    "Greetings, Grand Empress!" The generals immediately responded in unison.


    "Hm!" A hoarse female voice came from within the ck robe.


    Upon seeing the robed woman, Liudao''s expression tightened, showing a mix of impatience, annoyance, regret, and guilt. His emotions were extremelyplex.


    "Your Majesty, we shall take our leave!" The generals bowed immediately.


    "Hm!" Liudao nodded slightly. The generals quickly exited the grand hall.


    "You''re back. Why didn''t you let me know?" The Grand Empress approached and began to straighten Liudao''s robe, smoothing out the wrinkles with care.


    Liudao stood there with a frown, not moving an inch, as if he didn''t want the Grand Empress to touch him at all. Despite his aversion, he reluctantly allowed the Grand Empress to continue adjusting his robe.


    "I was worried you were busy. I didn''t want to disturb you," Liudao said softly.


    The Grand Empress was silent for a moment before saying, "Tonight, Xiao San will attend to you."


    "Hm." Liudao responded with a slight nod.


    After speaking, the Grand Empress left slowly, looking rather deste, without saying another word.


    Watching her retreating figure, Liudao''s expression was incrediblyplex.


    On Langwolf Ind, Deep in a Mountain Forest


    Yinn, dressed in armor, looked valiant and exceptionally handsome. The scene before her was one of devastation; numerous corpsesy scattered across the ground, and the once majestic mountains were now a mess. An entire sect had been wiped clean.


    Before Yinn stood a man, covered in blood. Ten soldiers held spears against him, ready to kill at hermand.


    "You can''t kill me! I''m a disciple of the Golden Light Arhat. He resides in the Great Awakening Temple of the Lunar Dynasty. We are all people of the Pure Land. You can''t kill me!" The man shouted in terror.


    The Pure Land? The Lunar Dynasty? The Great Awakening Temple? Yinn raised her hand, halting the execution.


    "Set up camp. I need to interrogate him." Yinn ordered.


    "Yes!" The generals behind her responded immediately.


    After setting up camp, Yinn and several generals conducted the interrogation personally. Upon learning the information, Yinn frowned and exchanged nces with her generals.


    "You, return to the capital immediately and report everything to His Majesty." Yinn directed one of themanders.


    "Yes!" Themander responded promptly.


    "General, may I leave now?" The captive asked, trembling with concern.


    "Marshal, should we detain him?" A general beside Yinn asked.


    "No, we have our mission. We can''t keep him with us. If we assign a small number of guards and he escapes, what then? His Majesty''s grand n must not be jeopardized, not even a little. No one can ruin the Duke''s scheme, absolutely no one. Kill him!" Yinn said coldly.


    "Yes!" The generals responded at once.


    "General, General...!" No matter how the captive pleaded, Yinn had already left the tent.


    <i>To be continued...</i>

 Chapter 372: The Giant Radish

    <h4>Chapter 372: The Giant Radish</h4>


    Langwolf Ind, Great Zhen Dynasty, Xuanying, the Imperial Pce, Zhongshan''s Study


    Yi Yan stepped into the study.


    Inside, Zhongshan was at his desk, writing with a brush, while Bao''er meticulously ground ink beside him.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty. Greetings, Empress," Yi Yan said with a bow.


    "Hehe, Yi Yan, there''s no need for such formality. Inside the court, we are sovereign and subject; outside, we are friends," Zhongshan said with a smile, setting down his brush.


    "Yes, regarding matters of the Lunar Dynasty, I need to discuss something with Your Majesty," Yi Yan said, ncing at Bao''er.


    Seeing Yi Yan''s expression, Zhongshanughed and said, "Bao''er is my wife. In my absence, she is authorized to make decisions on my behalf."


    Hearing Zhongshan''s words, Yi Yan was slightly taken aback. He nced at Bao''er with surprise, then nodded, saying, "Empress, please do not take offense. It''s just that the matter I need to report is quite confidential, and thus..."


    "No offense taken. You are acting in the best interest of my husband," Bao''er replied with a gentle smile and a shake of her head.


    "What have you discovered?" Zhongshan asked.


    "The surface strength of the Lunar Dynasty, ording to our analysis, has been sufficiently prepared for. Surprisingly, despite its seemingly small size, the Lunar Dynasty possesses formidable power," Yi Yan remarked thoughtfully.


    "Is that so?" Zhongshan continued to listen attentively.


    "The strength of the Lunar Dynasty is sufficient to contend on thends of Shenzhou. Yet, it remains in its secluded corner, a testament to the cunning and strategic acumen of its emperor, Liudao. Additionally, after thorough analysis, I''ve identified three highly covert forces within the Lunar Dynasty," Yi Yan exined.


    "Three forces? What are they?" Zhongshan inquired.


    "The most enigmatic is ''Mister Corpse.'' This individual is shrouded in mystery, with no known background. Even during my extensive time in Shenzhou, I never heard of him or his lineage. His loyalty to the Lunar Dynasty is questionable, and Liudao is constantly working to win him over. His potential influence could prove a significant surprise to us," Yi Yan said, shaking his head with a wry smile.


    "Mister Corpse? Hehe, I''ve had dealings with him. Rest assured, I''ll handle him personally. Perhaps, before long, he might even be an official of our Great Zhen Dynasty," Zhongshan mused.


    "Oh?" Yi Yan''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "What about the other two forces?" Bao''er interjected.


    "The second force is the Grand Empress of the Lunar Dynasty. She was once Liudao''s most beloved wife. However, three hundred years ago, it is rumored that Liudao obtained a fragment of a powerful cultivation technique. Though iplete, its potency was immense, and unwilling to forgo it, he chose his closestpanion to practice it, and thus, bestowed it upon the Grand Empress," Yi Yan exined, his brows furrowing slightly.


    "What happened afterward?" Bao''er asked.


    "Afterward? The Grand Empress has since been shrouded in a ck robe, and Liudao no longer dares to touch her," Yi Yan said.


    "Never dares to touch her again?" Bao''er frowned.


    "Never again. Nevertheless, her position in the Lunar Dynasty is unassable. There was once a concubine who sought to usurp her ce and ndered the Grand Empress before Liudao. The result? The concubine was immediately thrown into the cold pce and has never emerged since," Yi Yan said with a sigh.


    "Are you suggesting that the Grand Empress wields some extraordinary power?" Zhongshan asked, frowning.


    "That is a distinct possibility," Yi Yan nodded.


    "Then we shall see when the timees," Zhongshan said thoughtfully.


    "Hm. As for the third force, it is the Great Awakening Temple of the Lunar Dynasty," Yi Yan said.


    "Golden Light Monk from the Great Awakening Temple?" Zhongshan inquired.


    "Yes, this temple''s origins are shrouded in mystery. It appears to have emerged simultaneously with the Lunar Dynasty and is located right in the capital, Jinling City. In any other dynasty, it would be unthinkable for a sect to establish itself within the capital. Yet, the Great Awakening Temple has entrenched itself firmly in Jinling City," Yi Yan said, frowning.


    "Indeed. I have also had people investigate. The Great Awakening Temple is reputed to be the national temple of the Lunar Dynasty. The head monk, Golden Light, is known only by reputation and hasn''t been seen in public for over a century, not since hisst sermon," Zhongshan nodded in agreement.


    "Those we cannot understand thoroughly are the ones we must be most cautious of," Yi Yan said with a frown.


    "Hmm." Zhongshan nodded thoughtfully.


    At that moment, Wei Taizhong entered the room.


    "Your Majesty, General Yinn has sent a messenger. He is waiting outside," Wei Taizhong announced.


    "Let him in!" Zhongshan ordered with a frown.


    Yi Yan stepped to the side, a trace of curiosity flickering in his eyes.


    Soon, a general entered the study.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty! Greetings, Empress! Greetings, General!" The general bowed deeply.


    "What happened with Yinn? Why were you dispatched back so urgently?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Your Majesty, after we raided a mountain sect, we captured someone who imed to be a disciple of Golden Light Arhat from the Great Awakening Temple, part of the Pure Land. The marshal interrogated him on the spot and, due to the gravity of the situation, sent me back to report to you immediately," the general reported.


    "Oh? Golden Light Arhat?" Zhongshan asked, intrigued.


    "Yes, ording to the interrogation, Liudao of the Lunar Dynasty was originally from the Pure Land. He abandoned the path of umting yin virtues and turned to the pursuit of fame and power, founding the Lunar Dynasty. Because Liudao was originally from the Pure Land, they dispatched Golden Light Arhat to assist him. Within the Great Awakening Temple, Golden Light Arhat has trained 108te-stage Golden Core experts who can form a ''Arhat Great Formation,'' reputed to possess immense power," the general exined.


    "Is there anything else?" Zhongshan asked, his brow slightly furrowed.


    "No, that''s all," the general replied.


    "Very well. Return to General Yinn and inform her that I am aware. This information is very useful to me," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" The general saluted and left the room.


    "Pure Land? Again with the Pure Land," Yi Yan muttered, frowning.


    "Oh? Again? What do you mean, again?" Zhongshan asked.


    "In the past millennium, among the four sacrednds, the Pure Land has been extremely domineering. Its influence has grown steadily among sects and even extended into dynasties. Though not part of the same system, having the support of a dynasty makes it easier for them to umte virtues. Many dynasties in Shenzhou already bear the mark of the Pure Land. However, they struggle to infiltrate empires because each emperor is fiercely independent and intolerant of sect interference. As for heavenly empires, there is no chance at all, which is why you don''t see the influence of the Pure Land in the Great Luo Heavenly Empire. In the past, the Pure Land tried to infiltrate the Great Yu Empire and even poisoned me while I was in seclusion," Yi Yan exined thoughtfully.


    "Do you think Liudao would allow Golden Light Arhat to interfere?" Zhongshan pondered.


    "Not necessarily. But regardless, we now know a bit more about Golden Light Arhat. The Arhat Great Formation is a battle formation, and I''ve heard of its power. When formed by 108 true arhats, it can even trap a Bodhisattva," Yi Yan said.


    "But they aren''t true arhats, merelyte-stage Golden Core cultivators," Zhongshan remarked disdainfully.


    "Indeed!" Yi Yanughed.


    The Fourth Month of the Imperial Campaign, Outside Xuanying


    Zhongshan, apanied by an anxious Qian You, was flying slowly towards the capital. Hao Meili, riding a golden dragon, flew ahead, oblivious to the awe-struck and prostratemoners below.


    "Zhongshan, So This Is Your ce? A Self-Proimed Emperor?" Hao Meili Asked Curiously as She Looked Toward the Distant Pce.


    The golden dragon circled Xuanying, a sign of great auspice. However, there seemed to be someone riding on its head? For a moment, aside from those who knelt in reverence, everyone in the city strained their eyes to get a better look. Eventually, the majestic golden dragon descended into the imperial pce.


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!"


    It was unclear who started shouting first, but soon, the entire city of Xuanying echoed with countless voices of reverence.


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!"


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!"


    Amidst the continuous cries of devotion, Zhongshan and his entourage arrived in front of the Hall of Eternal Life.


    Today''s morning court session had been canceled, and the pce was heavily guarded, allowing no one to enter or leave. Before the Hall of Eternal Life, Bao''er, Yinn, Lin Xiao, Wei Taizhong, and Yi Yan waited patiently.


    Seeing Hao Meili ride in on a dragon, the crowd was only slightly surprised. However, when they saw Zhongshan descending from the clouds with Princess Qianyou, everyone except Bao''er widened their eyes in shock. Hearing was one thing, but seeing was far more astonishing. They all knew the emperor was sitting on the throne in the Hall of Eternal Life. Who was this person arriving from the sky?


    The crowd turned to look at the Hall of Eternal Life, only to find that the Zhongshan seated inside had vanished.


    "G-Great Uncle?" Yinn called out uncertainly.


    Zhongshan smiled gently, "What''s the matter? Weren''t you just moring to lead troops to the northern battlefield? And now you don''t recognize me?"


    "Ah, it really is Great Uncle! But, weren''t you just in the hall?" Yinn''s mind seemed to be in a jumble.


    "Hahaha!" Zhongshanughed heartily.


    Seeing Princess Qianyou, Yi Yan''s eyes were filled with suspicion. Princess Qianyou? How did she end up here? Why did His Majesty bring her back?


    Qianyou nced at the assembled group, her eyes pausing on the now younger-looking Yi Yan. She shot Zhongshan a re, evidently annoyed that he had recruited Yi Yan without informing her.


    However, Qianyou didn''t linger on Yi Yan, instead focusing her gaze on another luxurious and extraordinarily beautiful woman. Approaching, Qianyou gave a slight bow, "Qianyou greets you, Sister."


    Off to the side, Yi Yan''s mouth dropped open wide enough to fit an egg. Yinn looked at Qianyou with a hint of jealousy, pouting in displeasure.


    "Qianyou? No need for such formalities, sister. Let the men talk. I''ll take you for a tour of the harem," Bao''er said, giving Zhongshan a sideways nce. She warmly took Qianyou by the wrist and led her away.


    Qianyou hesitated but eventually followed Bao''er.


    "Zhongshan, don''t tell me that woman is also your wife?" Hao Meili asked, watching Bao''er leave.


    "Yes, she is," Zhongshan replied.


    "Men are all the same, always womanizers, just a bunch of shameless rakes!" Hao Meili scoffed disdainfully.

 Chapter 373: Entering the Northern Battlefield

    <h4>Chapter 373: Entering the Northern Battlefield</h4>


    "Men really are all the same, nothing but a bunch of phnderers!" Hao Meili said disdainfully.


    "And who are you to say that? What does it matter to you what my granduncle does?" Ying Lan retorted immediately upon hearing Hao Meili''s remark about Zhong Shan.


    "Ying Lan, mind your manners. This is Hao Meili!" Zhong Shan interjected quickly.


    "Huh?" Everyone paused for a moment, giving Hao Meili peculiar looks before falling silent.


    "Oh!" Ying Lan gave Hao Meili a quick nce and responded.


    Seeing the expressions on their faces, Hao Meili asked curiously, "Zhong Shan, what''s going on? How do they know me? And what did she mean by saying you were in the main hall just now?"


    Noticing Hao Meili''s overbearing attitude, everyone raised their eyebrows but chose to remain silent.


    "I mentioned you to them before. As for me being in the main hall, it''s, uh, just that she missed me so much. She saw my portrait in the hall and had a slight hallucination. Isn''t that right?" Zhong Shan, with a hint of cold sweat on his forehead, gave Ying Lan a meaningful look.


    "Yes, that''s right!" Ying Lan immediately chimed in.


    Hao Meili eyed Zhong Shan skeptically, clearly not believing him. She then said, "You came back with me at the same time. How do you know she saw your portrait? Does she have one? Ask her to show it to me."


    Hao Meili''s words were domineering, as if she were determined to expose Zhong Shan''s lie.


    This put Zhong Shan in a bit of a bind. A portrait? How could Ying Lan possibly have a portrait of him? She saw him every day; what would she need a portrait for?


    Ying Lan bit her lip, nced at Zhong Shan, her face flushing slightly, and with a wave of her hand, she actually produced a scroll.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was taken aback, and everyone else was also surprised. Did she really have one?


    Gently unrolling it, the scroll revealed a meticulous ink painting. Every detail was finely rendered, and the figure depicted was unmistakably Zhong Shan!


    Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed slightly, and Wei Taizhong, standing beside him, also frowned and let out a small sigh.


    "See? There you go," Ying Lan said, blushing as she quickly rolled up the scroll and shot a furtive nce at Zhong Shan.


    How did Ying Lan have a portrait of Zhong Shan? And from the look of it, judging by the intricate details and style, it was clear that Ying Lan herself had painted it.


    "Alright, it''s just a lousy painting. What''s there to be embarrassed about?" Hao Meili shook her head dismissively.


    At this moment, the huge golden dragon beside them shrank rapidly, in an instant transforming into a creature no longer than a foot, and crawled onto Hao Meili''s shoulder.


    "True Dragon Bloodline?" Yi Yan raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    "Ha, the old guy has some keen eyes!" Hao Meili said unabashedly.


    Upon hearing Hao Meili''s remark, Yi Yan could only shake his head with a wry smile.


    "Hao Meili, I haven''t seen them for a long time and have much to discuss. How about Taizhong takes you around nearby?" Zhong Shan suggested.


    "Alright, I have no interest in your nonsense," Hao Meili nodded.


    "Taizhong!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Yes!" Wei Taizhong responded immediately.


    Subsequently, Wei Taizhong led Hao Meili away. Seeing her leave, everyone breathed a collective sigh of relief.


    "Let''s go. Into the hall. Now, where were we?" Zhong Shan said as he walked.


    As they looked at Zhong Shan, Ying Lan, Lin Xiao, and Yi Yan couldn''t help but feel a bit odd. Clearly, he had just returned, yet his tone was strangely off.


    Entering the main hall and moving to a dimly lit area, a shadow detached itself from Zhong Shan''s body, merged with his form, and they became one again.


    "Granduncle, as I was saying earlier, Grandfather Lin and I have already cleared all the sects on Heavenly Wolf Ind. Those who surrendered have surrendered, those who left have left, and those who were destroyed have been destroyed," Ying Lan reported promptly.


    "Hmm, now that things are settled here, our next step is to deploy our forces to the northern battlefield of Heavenly Wolf Ind," Zhong Shan nodded in agreement.


    "Our puppet Ming Dynasty has encountered resistance in its war against the Yin Moon Empire," Yi Yan added.


    "Hmm!" Zhong Shan acknowledged with a nod.


    "This time, it seems the Yin Moon Empire is serious about annihting the three neighboring dynasties. They are suffering continuous defeats," Yi Yan continued.


    "The Six Paths Sect does not want to use this as a training exercise any longer. Given the situation, we will alter our original strategy. The Ming Dynasty should cease its offensive against the Yin Moon Empire and start consolidating battlefield forces in preparation for the entry of our Great Zhen Dynasty troops. Yi Yan, you will oversee the troop consolidation and depart for the front lines tomorrow to coordinate," Zhong Shan decided after a moment of thought.


    "Yes!" Yi Yan replied immediately.


    "Ying Lan, Lin Xiao! You should start organizing your troops now. We will officially deploy in ten days," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood!" they both responded at once.


    "And what about Your Majesty?" Yi Yan inquired, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "I''m waiting for a reply. Once I get it, I''ll set out," Zhong Shan said.


    "A reply?" The three of them looked puzzled.


    "I have a feeling that the Yin Moon Empire might have some hidden cards to y. I''ve sent Xianxian to invite Emperor Xuan Sha. We''ll see if he agrees toe," Zhong Shan said with a furrowed brow.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha? Him? He might not agree to help," Yi Yan said, frowning.


    "I know, but it''s worth a try. Whether hees or not, it doesn''t matter. As soon as Xianxian returns, I''ll depart," Zhong Shan replied thoughtfully.


    "Hmm!" The three of them nodded.


    Yin Moon Empire: The Study of the Six Paths Sect


    In the study, Six Paths was seated at his desk, with several ministers standing before him.


    "Your Majesty, with the opening of the battle, our army''s spearhead has caused the three dynasties to retreat continuously," one of the ministers said with a smile.


    "Retreating is normal. However, something seems offtely," another minister remarked.


    "Du Xiu, what do you mean?" Six Paths asked, looking at the minister.


    "Your Majesty, it''s just a feeling, but our victories seem too easy," Du Xiu said after a moment of thought.


    "That''s because a fourth power has joined the battlefield," Six Paths said gravely.


    "A fourth? The Great Zhen Dynasty? Your Majesty, are you saying the Great Zhen Dynasty is also involved?" Du Xiu asked in surprise.


    "Yes, ording to thetest intelligence. You, report!" Six Paths pointed to another minister.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. We''ve just received word that all the sects on Heavenly Wolf Ind have been cleared by the Great Zhen Dynasty. Moreover, all our spies in the Great Zhen Dynasty have been assassinated overnight," the minister reported.


    "Cleared out? All assassinated?" Du Xiu frowned.


    "Indeed. What do you think this signifies?" Six Paths looked at Du Xiu.


    "It signifies that the Great Zhen Dynasty is about to enter our battlefield. As for the assassination of all our spies, it must be the work of the Great Zhen Dynasty''s ''Shadow Guards''," Du Xiu spected after a moment''s consideration.


    "Correct. In just over twenty years, the Great Zhen Dynasty, which was once a mere mortal realm, has developed at an astonishing rate, almost unnaturally fast. Their military cultivation levels are now nearing ours. In just over twenty years? How is that possible? Unless they used an endless supply of spirit stones to create an area of boundless spiritual energy, it wouldn''t be feasible," Six Paths said with a frown.


    "How could that be possible? If it''s truly as Your Majesty says, then how many spirit stones would they need? How could they possibly have that many? Even if they signed a contract with Emperor Xuan Sha, there''s no way he would use his own reserves to elevate these mortals," a minister questioned with a frown.


    "But our people have indeed discovered areas overflowing with spirit stones," Six Paths expressed his concern.


    "Your Majesty, this Great Zhen Dynasty will surely be a formidable enemy for our empire in the future. We must act quickly. With each passing day, they grow stronger," Du Xiu advised.


    "Precisely. We need to act swiftly. Inform everyone to elerate the conquest. We must seize control of the northern battlefield as quickly as possible," Six Pathsmanded.


    "Understood!" Du Xiu responded immediately.


    The Northern Battlefield


    The tide of battle suddenly shifted. The Yin Moon Empire became unexpectedly aggressive, pushing back the three allied dynasties at every turn. Initially, the three dynasties should have united against themon enemy, the Yin Moon Empire.


    However, in a shocking turn of events, the Ming Dynasty abruptly changed its strategy. Instead of resisting the Yin Moon Empire, they started attacking a neighboring ally, turning their forces against another dynasty.


    What was happening? Had the Ming Dynasty lost its mind? How could they betray their allies? Didn''t they understand the principle of mutual destruction? Had the Ming Dynasty surrendered to the Yin Moon Empire?


    The battlefield became extraordinarily chaotic. The once unremarkable Ming Dynasty suddenly disyed precise and strategic warfare, achieving victory after victory. In the past month, ever since their betrayal, they hadn''t lost a single battle.


    The battlefield now belonged to the Yin Moon Empire and the Ming Dynasty. These two empires rampaged across thend, conquering and subduing the other two dynasties with relentless force.


    In arge camp of the Ming Dynasty, Yi Yan sat at themand table, surrounded by numerous generals, both those he had brought and those originally from the Ming Dynasty. They looked at Yi Yan with utter respect, admiring this suddenly emergingmander who was proving to be extraordinarily capable.


    "Tie Xue!" Yi Yan called out.


    "Here!" Tie Xue responded immediately.


    "Up ahead is the imperial city of the Great Yan Dynasty. The city is defenseless now. Take 400,000 troops and capture it," Yi Yanmanded.


    "Commander, what about the enemy forces on our eastern and western nks?" Tie Xue asked, his face filled with concern.


    "Don''t worry. Lin Xiao and Ying Lan should already be in position," Yi Yan replied confidently.


    "Understood, sir!" Tie Xue responded and left to carry out the order.


    Simultaneously, just as Yi Yan predicted, in the southeastern and southwestern forests near Yi Yan''s army, two elite forces emerged. Each bore argemanding g with a single golden character embroidered on it.


    The first g read "Lin," representing Lin Xiao, themander of the Great Zhen Dynasty''s First Corps.


    The second g read "Wei," representing Ying Lan, themander of the Great Zhen Dynasty''s Second Corps.


    The grand battle was officially underway!

 Chapter 374: The Imperial Expedition

    <h4>Chapter 374: The Imperial Expedition</h4>


    Yin Moon Empire, Jinling City, Imperial Court


    "Your Majesty, the Great Zhen Dynasty has appeared brazenly. It''s happening too quickly!" Minister Du Xiu eximed.


    "Too quickly?" Six Paths'' expression darkened slightly.


    "Yes! Besides the sudden rise of the Ming Dynasty to unprecedented strength, the two armies of the Great Zhen Dynasty are sweeping everything before them like a torrential flood. They''re advancing non-stop, as if they''re not fighting a war, but...," Du Xiu furrowed his brows.


    "But what?" Six Paths inquired.


    "They''re racing. It''s as if they''repeting in a running race. Their speed in capturing cities is like that of a forced march. They just keep charging forward relentlessly. Wherever they go, enemy forces copse like ant colonies under a flood, unable to withstand the onught. Their speed... it''s beyond words. Themanders of these two armies are unparalleled in their military prowess, something rarely seen in the world!" Du Xiu marveled.


    "Unparalleled?" Six Paths frowned.


    "Yes, theirmanding talent is so exceptional that it''s once in a millennium to find even one suchmander, yet the Great Zhen Dynasty has found two, both fully subdued. The Great Zhen Dynasty is approaching with unstoppable momentum!" Du Xiu sighed.


    "Two armies? I see it as three armies!" Six Paths furrowed his brow.


    "Report!!!" A loud shout echoed from outside the hall.


    Immediately, a soldier rushed into the hall and knelt before the throne. "Your Majesty, the Ming Dynasty has formally dered its allegiance to the Great Zhen Dynasty. Henceforth, there is no more Ming Dynasty, only the Great Zhen Dynasty!"


    After delivering his report, the soldier promptly exited the hall.


    "Do you see? The third army has now emerged!" Six Paths sneered coldly.


    "The Great Zhen Dynasty has been nning this for a long time. With three armies, each led by exceptionalmanders, Your Majesty, we are truly facing a tough battle," Du Xiu said with a bitter smile.


    "Have themanders of these three armies been identified?" Six Paths asked.


    "Later reports confirmed them as themanders of the Great Zhen Dynasty''s First Corps and Second Corps. Since the Ming Dynasty has joined the Great Zhen Dynasty, themander of the third army under the ''Yi'' g is also clear: Yi Yan,mander of the Great Zhen Dynasty''s Third Corps!" Du Xiu exined.


    "Yi Yan? Could it be the immensely powerful Yi Yan from the Divine Land? It''s impossible. He''s the Grand Commander of the Imperial Capital, why would hee to a small dynasty? Perhaps it''s a case of homonyms," Six Paths pondered, shaking his head.


    "Your Majesty, it seems that our true opponents are not the three major dynasties but this Great Zhen Dynasty. Soon, we may face a decisive battle," Du Xiu suggested after some thought.


    "Indeed. What do you all think we should do?" Six Paths turned to the ministers.


    "Your Majesty, we should temporarily ignore the three armies of the Great Zhen Dynasty and focus on capturing as many cities as we can. We should also recruit the armies of the three major dynasties to resist the Great Zhen Dynasty together," one minister proposed.


    "No, Your Majesty!" Du Xiu immediately objected.


    "Oh?" Six Paths looked at Du Xiu.


    "Your Majesty, if we recruit the armies of the three major dynasties while the Great Zhen Dynasty is also recruiting them, they are currently weak. If we only gain a little benefit from them, but for the Great Zhen Dynasty, it will be eating meat. Now, the Great Zhen Dynasty is strong, but it''s not as strong as our dynasty. If they growrger, it will be toote for us to overthrow them!" Du Xiu urgently exined.


    "Minister Du has a point. They are just a small dynasty. How can theypare with our dynasty?" the earlier minister argued.


    "Your Majesty, in the past, our Yin Moon Empire was also just a small dynasty. We cannot afford to becent!" Du Xiu insisted.


    Six Paths nced at everyone, his brow slightly furrowed, before he dered, "Inform the First Corps, Second Corps, and Third Corps to halt their advance on surrounding cities and focus all efforts on encircling the Great Zhen Dynasty''s armies."


    "Indeed!" the ministers immediately responded��


    Da Lou Kingdom, Xuanjing, Changsheng Hall


    Zhongshan donned a set of War Dragon robes, looking at the white little wolf before him. The wolf nudged Zhongshan''s leg unhappily.


    "It''s alright, Xianxian. Don''t me yourself. I know your grandfather won''te. If he didn''te, then so be it. It doesn''t matter. We will still unify Tiang Ind," Zhongshan chuckled, patting Xianxian''s head.


    "Woo woo woo," Xianxian whimpered, still somewhat upset.


    "Alright, we should go," Zhongshan said. The little wolf wagged its tail and followed Zhongshan out of Changsheng Hall.


    Outside Changsheng Hall stood Bao''er, Qianyou, Wei Taizhong, Haomeili, and numerous officials. In the distance were tens of thousands of Imperial Guards, each a top member of the Da Lou Kingdom''s military.


    "Long live our Emperor, long live, long live!"


    Except for Haomeili''s disdainful look, everyone else shouted with fervor.


    "Lu Jianping����"


    "Here!" Lu Jianping responded promptly.


    "Prepare to depart����" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Lu Jianping replied immediately.


    Then, Lu Jianping waved his hand, and the vastnd where tens of thousands of Imperial Guards were fighting slowly ascended into the air.


    This was a huge floating indpletely forged from bronze by Lu Jianping himself, inscribed with formations. It could carry people and float in the sky. Under the propulsion of the formations, it could even fly, much like the ''Divine Ship'' of the ancient Xuan King.


    Apanied by Zhongshan were Xianxian, Bao''er, Qianyou, Haomeili, and Lu Jianping as they soared onto the massive triangr floating ind.


    On the triangr floating ind, the Imperial Guards were all excited, standing straight.


    Wei Taizhong stayed behind, bowing with other ministers simultaneously, "May Your Majesty have victory and reign for ten thousand years!"


    On the bronze battle ind, shaped like a triangle, with several pces on it, at one corner was ced a Nine Dragons Emperor Throne, facing squarely towards the front outside.


    Zhongshan flew to the Nine Dragons Emperor Throne and slowly sat down. The others stood around Zhongshan, while Xianxian curiously ran around the surroundings.


    "Depart����" Zhongshan gave the order.


    "Yes!" Lu Jianping immediately responded. Then, the bronze battle ind elerated slowly towards the north, swiftly departing.


    Da Lou Kingdom, Zhongshan''s Imperial Expedition, officially entered the northern battlefield����


    Yin Yue Dynasty, Imperial Court


    "Hahaha, what audacity!" Liu Dao sneered in frustration.


    "Your Majesty, does Da Lou Kingdom really not want to live? Are they not going to fight? Our dynasty has deployed three army corps, and they only have Wei Yinn facing us? Is she the only one opposing our three army corps? Meanwhile, Yi Yan and Lin Xiao are still seizing other cities. Hubris leads to defeat!" a minister quickly chimed in.


    "Your Majesty, the situation is worse than imagined," Du Xiu frowned.


    "Duke Du, what do you mean? Their arrogance and conceit, isn''t that advantageous for our dynasty? What''s there to fear?" the earlier minister asked.


    "They cannot be unaware of our dynasty''s strength. With the shifts in our three army corps'' routes, how could they not know? Wei Yinn has been unstoppable in her path, that is undeniable. But would such amander make such a basic mistake? Even if she did, did Lin Xiao and Yi Yan also make the same mistake simultaneously?" Du Xiu furrowed his brow.


    "Spread mymand!" Liu Dao suddenly spoke up.


    The ministers immediately stopped talking.


    "The First Legion, the Second Legion, the Third Legion, charge with full force, sparing no cost, and annihte the army led by Wei Yinn," Liu Dao ordered.


    "Yes!" the ministers promptly responded��


    <strong>Tiang Ind, amidst the east-west traversing forests and mountains, where arge number of wolves raced madly. At this moment, wolves were everywhere, escorting a bronze battle ind in the sky.</strong>


    Wherever Zhongshan passed, everything went smoothly. From time to time, scouts flew up to the bronze battle ind to report on the frontline situation to Zhongshan. Continuous reports of victories came from the frontline: the three major dynasties had all beenpletely defeated.


    Yi Yan had captured thirty cities, Lin Xiao had seized eighteen fortresses, and after securing twelve fortresses, Yinn began to reorganize her troops, preparing to face the army of the Yin Yue Dynasty.


    "Your Majesty, where are we heading?" Lu Jianping asked.


    "Due north, to the frontline. The battlefield of Yinn!" Zhongshan replied.


    "Yes!" Lu Jianping immediately responded.


    "Inform Lin Xiao and Yi Yan''s armies. As long as they have enough manpower, our objective is to swiftly crush the Yin Yue Dynasty. Those remote cities can be ignored for now. Once the Yin Yue Dynasty falls, Tiang Ind will belong entirely to the Da Lou Kingdom. Quickly gather our forces and join Yinn''s left and right wings. Prepare to march towards the city of Jinling!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Lu Jianping responded ahead.


    At this moment, Haomeili emerged from a pce behind.


    "They sure have quite the momentum!" Haomeili remarked.


    "War should be like this," Zhongshan nodded.


    "How about this, let me help you deal with that Yin Yue Dynasty? Just watch me wipe them out!" Haomeili stared at Zhongshan and smiled.


    Turning his head, Zhongshan looked at Haomeili. He never doubted her abilities. Although she had just entered the Golden Core stage, Haomeili''s abilities were extraordinary. One could almost say she was invincible! If she chose to oppose someone, she could even knock down stars from the sky to crush her opponents.


    "No, just watch is enough! Thank you for your kind offer," Zhongshan immediately shook his head and declined.


    "Why?" Haomeili narrowed her eyes, clearly displeased, as if her carefully crafted n had been interrupted by Zhongshan.


    "Your help would be too costly, and I can''t afford it!" Zhongshan said very directly.


    Zhongshan knew that Haomeili must have her own demands for following him. What was she seeking? The Dragon Pce couldn''t do it, her master, the Poison Emperor, couldn''t do it, and even her own body, the Ten Thousand Evils Body, couldn''t achieve it. How enormous must her difficulties be? It was better to refuse early.

 Chapter 375: Zhongshan Breaks the Formation

    <h4>Chapter 375: Zhongshan Breaks the Formation</h4>


    "I can''t afford the cost of your help!" Zhongshan said bluntly.


    Seeing through Zhongshan''s intentions, Haomeili''s expression turned cold. With a cold snort, she turned and left.


    The bronze battle ind emerged from the mountainous forest area and slowly flew northward, as if inspecting thend that now belonged to the Da Lou Kingdom.


    Upon arriving at the frontline, the floating ind gradually descended. Everyone gathered around Zhongshan, looking towards the distant battlefield.


    It was a secluded valley, surrounded by arge number of armies. At the mouth of the valley, all the soldiers had their Pogang arrows ready, waiting for themander''s order to release them all at once into the valley.


    Inside the valley, nearly three thousand defeated soldiers looked disheveled, their faces filled with panic and disbelief.


    Defeated? They were defeated so suddenly and inexplicably?


    Outside the valley, atop the mountains, Yinn stood on a rock and addressed the valley below, "I''ll give you ten breaths of time. If you don''t surrender ande out, you''ll face ten thousand Pogang arrows! I, Wei Yinn, have never failed to keep my word. Ten breaths��it''s yourst chance to think. Once these ten breaths pass, there will be no mercy!"


    Yinn''s tone was ominous, adding more pressure to the three thousand defeated soldiers in the valley.


    "One."


    "Two."


    ...


    "Seven."


    At this moment, Yinn suddenly noticed the bronze battle ind in the distance. She paused slightly, then her face lit up with surprise. She stopped counting!


    Yinn''s decision to stop counting sent a chill through the hearts of the defeated soldiers below.


    "Don''t shoot, don''t shoot, I surrender!" a surrendering voice suddenly echoed from the valley.


    "I surrender too!"


    ... The sounds of surrender were endless, and all the defeated soldiers in the valley copsed psychologically. They all surrendered.


    Yinn unexpectedly nced at the valley and instructed a lieutenant beside her, "Go, gather those prisoners, and report back to meter!"


    "Yes!" The lieutenant immediately responded.


    Ignoring the valley below, Yinn eagerly flew up into the sky towards the distance.


    "Your Majesty, you''ve arrived just in time!" Yinn eximed with delight as shended on the floating ind.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan looked puzzled.


    "This is thest of the Yin Yue Dynasty''s three main legions, the Third Legion. I just used a tactic to scatter their forces and trap their legionmander in the valley," Yinn exined casually.


    "Good!" Zhongshan smiled.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s praise, Yinn''s face immediately lit up with joy.


    "Queens," Yinn called out to Bao''er and Qianyou.


    Bao''er smiled kindly, while Qianyou blushed slightly but nodded.


    "Long live Your Majesty, long live, long live!" The soldiers below quickly recognized the origin of the floating ind and immediately knelt down in homage.


    Zhongshan walked to the edge of the floating ind and looked down.


    "Soldiers, you''ve worked hard!" Zhongshan called out.


    "Not hard at all!" the soldiers shouted excitedly.


    At the forefront was the enemymander, bound in special materials like a dumpling.


    "Is this themander of the Third Legion of the Yin Yue Dynasty?" Zhongshan sneered disdainfully.


    The legionmander held his head high, showing an air of indifference.


    "Release his bindings!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" The people below immediately untied the ropes from the legionmander.


    The legionmander looked slightly puzzled. Did they think they could buy me off?


    "Don''t think you can buy me off. I am a man of the Yin Yue Dynasty in life and in death. If it weren''t for my subordinates'' betrayal, I would never have ended up like this," the legionmander said arrogantly.


    "To be so foolish and still think I''d buy you off? Haha, you''re quite humorous! I''ll spare your life to let you go back and tell Liu Dao, tell him that the consequences of past actions are now upon him. Clean your neck in Jinling City and wait for me toe for my debt!" Zhongshan sneered.


    Zhongshan''s tone was deliberate, but for some reason, after hearing it, the legionmander shivered all over. He looked at Zhongshan with some fear, turned around swiftly, and flew away quickly.


    In the Yin Yue Dynasty, Jinling City, in Liu Dao''s study.


    "Bang~~~" Liu Dao angrily knocked over the incense burner. Several trusted ministers stood before him, along with a general who bowed his head and was reporting, the same Third Legionmander who had just returned from the frontline.


    "The three legions? In one month? All defeated? Completely annihted? One point five million men, just standing there motionless, and you let them be killed for a month. Do you still have the face to say you did your best?" Liu Dao stared angrily at the legionmander.


    "Your Majesty, I am the only one who returned. Themanders of the First and Second Legions both died in action. That Wei Yinn is too cunning with her troops. Every time she emerged from where our scouts had confirmed there were no troops, we''ve been on the run since fighting her. She never engages us directly," the Third Legionmander said with a bitter face.


    Taking a deep breath, Liu Dao finally calmed down.


    "Just a woman, and she''s managed to rout all of you? Hmph. Also, Emperor Da Lou led the troops in person? Coming to collect a debt from me? Do you even remember what he looks like?" Liu Dao stared at the Third Legionmander.


    "Yes!" The Third Legionmander responded quickly and swiftly used magic to create a projection of Zhongshan in front of him.


    "Is this him?" Liu Dao''s pupils contracted.


    That grasshopper? The grasshopper that could be crushed by a single finger in the past?


    Mr. Shi, who was on the side, saw the projection of Zhongshan and furrowed his brows slightly but said nothing.


    "Your Majesty, it''s him!" a trusted aide of Liu Dao''s said.


    "Indeed, it''s him. I never expected that a momentary negligence would make him my great enemy," Liu Dao frowned.


    "Do you have any good strategies?" Liu Dao asked.


    "Your Majesty!" Du Xiu immediately stepped forward.


    "Duke Du, please speak," Liu Dao said.


    "Your Majesty, in the Great Awakening Temple in Jinling City, there''s a person whom Your Majesty does not favor. He has been clinging to Your Majesty under the pretext of assisting. Hasn''t Your Majesty been wanting to get rid of him for a long time?" Du Xiu smiled.


    "Let the Luohan Grand Formation of Golden Light attack the army of the Da Lou Kingdom, causing mutual destruction?" Liu Dao''s eyes lit up.


    "Your Majesty is wise!" Du Xiu smiled.


    Emperor Zhongshan led the expedition personally, and wherever Yinn''s army went, they were invincible.


    It had been fifteen days since Zhongshan had let the enemymander go.


    The army slowly advanced towards the north.


    As they passed through a forested area, suddenly, maple leaves began to fall from the sky.


    Endless maple leaves fell from the sky, more and more, until in a moment, the environment around the bronze battle ind and the army below werepletely reced by an environment of falling maple leaves.


    Chapter 375: Breaking the Formation of Zhongshan


    Leaf by leaf, seemingly ordinary maple leaves fell from the sky. They possessed no magical power, yet they covered the surroundings from all directions, causing the world to appear faintly visible to onlookers, who could only glimpse the nearby scenery through gaps in the leaves. In the blink of an eye, they could no longer distinguish east from west.


    Maple leaves filled every direction!


    On the bronze battle ind, everyone prepared to act, but Zhongshan halted them with a gentle wave of his hand.


    "The Arhat Formation?" Zhongshan sneered.


    "Do you, venerable one, recognize the Arhat Formation?" Amidst the environment filled with maple leaves, a booming bell-like voice suddenly resounded.


    "It''s said that the true Arhat Formation contains thousands of dragon-like creatures and myriad Buddhas filling the sky. What you have here looks like a heap of dry grass," Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Dry grass can be dragons, and dry grass can be Buddhas. A mind without distractions is dry grass; a mind with evil thoughts is a Buddha," the booming bell-like voice echoed from all sides.


    "Purporting to be Buddhas, exterminating us demons? What grandiosity! Let''s see what your Buddhas are capable of," Zhongshan said coldly.


    After Zhongshan finished speaking, he tilted his head slightly towards the sky.


    "Boom~~~"


    As Zhongshan tilted his head skyward, there was a thunderous explosion in the sky. Endless brilliance burst forth, piercing through the gaps in the maple leaves and dazzling everyone''s eyes.


    "Boom~~~"


    "Boom~~~"


    In the high sky, suddenly, lightning shed, and endless thunder poured down. However, this lightning wasn''t crashing toward the ground below but seemed to take on a life of its own, wildly moving through the sky and earth in all directions like thousands of dragons of lightning. They moved at terrifying speed, burning up any maple leaf they touched in an instant.


    The maple leaves rapidly decreased in number.


    "Thunder Dragon Illusion World, are you from the Eternal Realm?" A surprised voice came again from the remnants of the maple leaves.


    "The Eternal Realm? Great monk, you''ve got it wrong!" Zhongshanughed and, as he finished speaking, stared fiercely.


    "Rumble~~~ Rumble~~~"


    Amidst the rumbling, all the thunder dragons simultaneously charged toward one direction. Suddenly, they exploded in that direction as if the previous thousand thunder dragons were dancing wildly. However, they weren''t trying to burn the maple leaves but seemed to be searching for the core of the Arhat Formation.


    "Boom~~~"


    As if the sun exploded, a huge light burst from the collision of lightning in that direction. Simultaneously, the airflow generated by this powerful collision blew away all the maple leaves in that direction, revealing a bald-headed monk inside a protective shield.


    The monk''s eyes showed disbelief. Although he had blocked Zhongshan''s attack, he couldn''t believe that Zhongshan could find him. How could he possibly locate him within the Arhat Formation? It was impossible!


    "Your Majesty, shall I use my formation?" Yinn immediately asked.


    "No need. Let the Eight-Gate Golden Locks stay behind. This kind of broken formation doesn''t deserve the might of the Eight-Gate Golden Locks," Zhongshan sneered.

 Chapter 376: Mr. Corpse Faces Five Million Enemies

    <h4>Chapter 376: Mr. Corpse Faces Five Million Enemies</h4>


    On the opposite side, the Great Monk stared at the Bronze War Ind with disbelief written all over his face. How could this be? How did he manage to find him?


    "Golden Light Arhat!" Zhongshan stared directly at the Great Monk across from him.


    "Do you know me?" Golden Light Arhat frowned.


    "I advise you, leave my sight immediately, get off Tiang Ind, or else..." Zhongshan''s voice turned cold.


    "Or else what? Hmph, Emperor Da Jing? You have countless Imperial Realm experts by your side, so you might be safe, but not a single soldier below, oh, including that Wei Yinn, will survive," Golden Light Arhat sneered coldly.


    "Oh? You think you can kill my one million soldiers?" Zhongshan''s eyes chilled.


    "Within the Arhat Formation, I am the master. My 108 disciples will lead the Yin Yue Imperial Army into the formation. In just half an hour, your army will be annihted. Can''t you hear the voices from below?" Golden Light Arhatughed excitedly.


    "The Arhat Formation? You are the master? From the moment I found you, you ceased to be the master! Since you are so obstinate, then go!" Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed coldly.


    "Go?" Golden Light Arhat furrowed his brows, a hint of doubt shing in his eyes. Go? What does he mean?


    "Szzzzz����" Suddenly, a purple sword shot out from Golden Light Arhat''s chest, piercing his heart.


    "Szzziiinnnggg����" The purple sword was swiftly withdrawn, leaving only a purple shadow. The sword disappeared without a trace.


    Everyone widened their eyes in disbelief. What just happened? How? Who was that? A sword stabbed Golden Light Arhat to death? How did Golden Light not notice someone approaching? No, after the sword stabbed Golden Light Arhat, it disappeared. This stealth ability is too strong. Who?


    Who was it? The Chief Commander of the Imperial Guards of Da Jing Dynasty, Shadow Emperor!


    Last time, he concealed his aura and managed to meet Zhongshan on the Divine Land of Shenzhou without being detected by A Da. Today, he deceived Golden Light Arhat. Naturally, it was not a problem. Since theirst separation, the Shadow Emperor had gone to receive the legacy left by the Nameless Old Man.


    Upon his return, Zhongshan didn''t ask what the Shadow Emperor had gained but only how strong he was now. The Shadow Emperor replied with, "I can assassinate an Imperial Realm expert." That was enough!


    In the moment when Golden Light Arhat was pierced through the heart by the Shadow Emperor''s sword, the whole world seemed to sway. The endless maple leaves around suddenly dispersed.


    Returning to the previous deste environment.


    In the distance, the Yin Yue Imperial Army was swiftly approaching. The 108 bald monks looked incredulous.


    "Archers, fire����" Yinnmanded.


    Immediately, tens of thousands of Breaking Gang Arrows shot straight into the sky where Golden Light had been.


    "Boom����" Unable to deploy the strongest shield, the hastily erected shield only managed to block three thousand Breaking Gang Arrows before being pierced through like a sieve by the subsequent barrage.


    Imperial Realm? So what if it''s Imperial Realm? Aren''t there countless Imperial Realm experts Zhongshan had killed in the past?


    "Boom����" Frustrated, Golden Light exploded into pieces.


    A golden divine light shot towards the distance in utter frustration.


    "Pa����" In the void, it was as though a fox tail lightly patted a transparent light shadow, and the golden divine light shadow was swiftly swept over to Zhongshan, and it was instantly collected into his body, the finest supplement of Eight Extreme Sky Tail.


    "Root god knowledge?" On the side, the Azure Cloud Wolf Commander sneered, with an unbelieving look


    "Prepare the troops to meet the enemy!" Yinnmanded.


    "Roar~~~~~~~" The generals and soldiers roared in unison, rallying to confront the Yin Yue Imperial Army.


    Yin Yue Imperial City, Jinling City, Six Paths Study.


    Six Dao sat in front of his desk, surrounded by a group of courtiers.


    "Golden Light Arhat is unexpectedly so ipetent!" Du Xiu frowned.


    "It''s not that Golden Light Arhat is ipetent, but the momentum of the Da Jing Dynasty is too overwhelming. Although theter army severely damaged Wei Yinn''s forces, our own forces werepletely annihted during this period," Six Dao sighed deeply.


    "The Da Jing Dynasty''s military prowess is increasing. They are now getting closer and closer to Jinling City. Your Majesty, just received news that Lin Xiao and Yi Yan''s forces are gathering from both sides towards Wei Yinn. They are preparing to attack Jinling City in one fell swoop!" Du Xiu expressed his concern.


    "They won''t be able to break through Jinling City. As long as we can dy them for another month, reinforcements will arrive. Who is willing to lead the troops to hold back the Da Jing Dynasty for a month?" Six Dao looked at the generals and asked.


    However, who could guarantee that they could hold back the Da Jing Dynasty for a month? The Da Jing Dynasty''s army was unstoppable, advancing straight towards the Yin Yue Imperial City without a single defeat along the way!


    "Your Majesty, perhaps we should retreat to the Divine Land of Shenzhou," Du Xiu suggested.


    "Retreat? You want me to abandon our foundation here? Absolutely not!" Six Dao''s eyes narrowed.


    "But..." Du Xiu sighed deeply, understanding how difficult this decision was. However, the Da Jing Dynasty''s military was too unpredictable, too powerful. It forced Du Xiu to consider thisst resort.


    "I will go!" Suddenly, Mr. Corpse, who never took the initiative, spoke up.


    Seeing Mr. Corpse volunteering, Six Dao first felt joy, but then furrowed his brows.


    "Mr. Corpse, you?" Six Dao was somewhat uncertain.


    "One month, you can rest assured," Mr. Corpse nodded and said expressionlessly.


    "Very well, how many troops do you need?" Six Dao asked after a moment of thought.


    "No need, I alone am sufficient," Mr. Corpse replied.


    "Alright, Mr. Corpse, I rely on you," Six Dao immediately said.


    "Hmm," Mr. Corpse nodded. Then he solemnly bowed to Six Dao.


    Seeing Mr. Corpse''s gesture, Six Dao frowned. Did Mr. Corpse''s bow carry a hint of farewell?


    Mr. Corpse bowed and then left.


    Returning to his residence, he packed his belongings and looked towards the direction of Six Dao''s study with a faint smile. "Over these years, I''ve repaid my debts to you. This is thest time. Regardless, I will hold back the Da Jing Dynasty for a month. If Zhongshan wins, I will stay in the Da Jing Dynasty. If Zhongshan dies because of me, then Tiang Ind will no longer be of interest to me. I hope to see you again in the Divine Land of Shenzhou."


    Finished speaking, Mr. Corpse stepped forward, and a white cloud lifted him up, heading southward.


    On Bronze War Ind, Zhongshan sawrge armies approaching from both east and west.


    "Linxiao, Yi Yan''s armies are gathering here rapidly. Each of them leads nearly two million soldiers. The ground is stirring up a billowing dust storm as they rush over with unparalleled momentum."


    "The First Legion, Linxiao, pays respects to Your Majesty!"


    "The Third Legion, Yi Yan, pays respects to Your Majesty!"


    Hundreds of thousands of soldiers simultaneously shouted, "Long live His Majesty!"


    "Come up," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Yes!" Yi Yan and Linxiao immediately flew up to Bronze War Ind.


    The First Legion, two million soldiers. The Second Legion, one million soldiers. The Third Legion, two million soldiers.


    A total of five million troops stood beneath Bronze War Ind, gazing up with immense reverence.


    "Your Majesty, we are now close to Jinling City. Within a few days at most, we canunch a decisive attack and take it down!" Yinn said immediately.


    Zhongshan was about to reply when Princess Qianyou suddenly spoke up, "There''s someone ahead."


    Everyone''s hearts tightened as they looked into the distance. Before themy a vast in, seemingly endless with just wild grasses scattered about.


    In the center of this in stood a man in a coarse robe. His face was extremely pale, devoid of any color, and he sported a small beard on his chin. Despite facing five million troops, he showed no fear, only calmness and indifference.


    "Yin Yue Imperial Dynasty, Mr. Corpse!" Yi Yan said softly.


    "Mr. Corpse?" Zhongshan walked slowly to the forefront of Bronze War Ind.


    "I have arrived. Are you ready?" Mr. Corpse said calmly from afar.


    "Ready whenever you are!" Zhongshan called out.


    Mr. Corpse''s face twisted into a strange smile. Suddenly, he extended his right hand, and as he swung his sleeve, arge amount of ck smoke billowed out. Initially pitch-ck as it left his sleeve, the smoke swiftly dissipated into the surrounding air and eerily seeped into the ground below.


    "What was this in before?" Zhongshan immediately asked.


    "An ancient battlefield. It has been a battlefield since ancient times, long before the Yin Yue Imperial Dynasty was born. Countless lives have perished here. At one point, the ground was soaked red with blood," Qingyun Wolf Commander said promptly.


    "An ancient battlefield?" Zhongshan raised an eyebrow.


    "Rumble~~~~~~"


    The earth ahead suddenly trembled. The in shook irregrly, causing the five million troops of the Da Jing Dynasty to step back slightly. The cavalrymen were particrly uneasy, their restless steeds fearing the ground beneath them.


    "Ssh~~~~~~"


    Not far from Mr. Corpse, a patch of soil was the first to be disturbed. No, it seemed to be unearthed. Everyone stared, pupils shrinking. From the overturned soil, a skeletal hand suddenly emerged.


    One skeletal hand broke through the soil, followed by countless others all across the in. They weren''t just skeletal hands; they were humanoid skeletons.


    From where it first emerged, a terrifying skeleton slowly crawled out from underground.


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 377: Within the Gate of Death

    <h4>Chapter 377: Within the Gate of Death</h4>


    Skeletons? Underground skeletons?


    Under the vast expanse surrounding Mr. Corpse, more and more skeletons emerged from the ground. They continued to crawl out, each seeming infused with a certain power that transformed their bones into a hardened, gray-white hue. From their eye sockets, a bloody red light shone through, lending them an eerie and unsettling appearance.


    A sinister aura permeated the entire in.


    Beneath Bronze War Ind, the horses neighed incessantly, restless and fearful. And not just the horses; the soldiers themselves were unnerved. Those who hade from the Da Jing Dynasty had never witnessed such a spectacle��no, such an eerie and terrifying scene. Endless skeletons continued to emerge across the in.


    Some observers even noticed that some of the iplete skeletons were picking up bones scattered around them, piecing them together. More horrifyingly, certain skeletons managed to find enough bones to fashion enormous bone wings on their backs, floating eerily in the air. Could skeletons fly too?


    A in of skeletons��countless skeletons!


    In just a short span of time, an endless army of skeletons had formed before Mr. Corpse.


    Some of the more timid individuals were already trembling in fear. Ghosts? Could such a in of skeletons be described merely as ghosts? Although they had followed the Da Jing Dynasty into the realm of cultivation, they had never witnessed such a bizarre phenomenon.


    Mr. Corpse remained expressionless in the center of the in as the number of skeletons continued to increase frically. Instead of immediately attacking, these skeletons busied themselves with arming up.


    Arming themselves��some found bone wings and took to the skies, while others grabbed scattered bones, waving them around. Still, others discovered long-buried weapons from ancient battlefields.


    "Uncle, what... what is this?" Yinn asked uncertainly.


    "No, this isn''t an illusion. These are all real!" Yi Yan raised an eyebrow, his eyes showing a hint of concern.


    "This isn''t a derivative realm or a Feng Shui formation. What in the world is this?" Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "How strong are they individually?" Zhongshan asked.


    "These skeletons, at most, possess the strength of a human Golden Core stage. Our army can easily handle them!" Qingyun Wolf Commander said from the side.


    "Handle them? Only a small portion!" Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    Indeed, only a small portion. Seeing such a scene, how many soldiers could maintain theirposure? Zhongshan also knew that Mr. Corpse''s greatest strengthy not in these skeletons but in his zombies!


    "I''ll go kill that person!" Qianyou immediately volunteered.


    "No, you can''t kill him. Around him, it seems there are only some skeletons, but there must be something underground protecting him," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "What?" Qianyou frowned.


    "Zombies!" Zhongshan said.


    "Yinn, follow mymand!" Zhongshan suddenly shouted.


    "Yes!" Yinn responded promptly.


    "Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation!" Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Understood!" Yinn immediatelyplied.


    She then leaped down from Bronze War Ind. In mid-air, Yinn gestured subtly.


    Below, the army dispersed in all directions, leaving only about eighty thousand individuals who grasped various peculiar weapons and took their positions.


    "Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, activate~~~~~~" Yinn shouted loudly.


    The earth below suddenly stirred up thousands of sand and dust, swirling up from underground. In an instant, it obscured the sky,pletely enveloping the eighty thousand people forming the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation. The raging winds whipped up a sandstorm!


    Under the coordination of Yi Yan and Lin Xiao, the troops began to retreat towards the rear. Only Yinn and the eighty thousand soldiers remained, forming the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation.


    The sandstorm grew stronger and stronger! Initially, it only stirred up some dust, but now it began to lift massive boulders, soaring into the sky. These rocks plummeted back down, directly crashing towards the endless army of skeletons in the distance.


    Mr. Corpse, seeing this sandstorm unfold, narrowed his eyes. A cold light shed in them as he extended his right arm and pointed forward.


    "Giggle giggle giggle giggle giggle giggle giggle giggle giggle... "


    On the battlefield, countless skeletons trembled lightly, bones shing against bones, emitting urgent collision sounds as if responding to Mr. Corpse''smand.


    "Haha~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The endless skeletons emitted a strange, eerie sound. Grabbing their respective weapons, they swiftly charged towards the location of the sandstorm.


    The airborne skeletons were the fastest. With a p of their bone wings, they dove down, gripping bones as they soared. The non-flying skeletons also grabbed their weapons angrily, rushing towards the sandstorm.


    At a nce, the endless skeletons charging forward appeared spectacr, as if one had been transported to an infernal battlefield in an instant��undead and craving blood and flesh.


    The sandstorm continued to expand infinitely. The surrounding earth waspletely transformed into dry sand, with more and more sand assimting into the ground below.


    At the location of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, a gigantic sand wave suddenly rose. This sand wave, sweeping like a colossal tsunami, rushed towards the distant in of skeletons,pletely obscuring the sky and earth as it advanced.


    Wherever the sand tsunami passed, thend turned entirely to sand. Wave after wave surged forth, with the highest wave of the sand tsunami reaching a towering five hundred meters.


    It pressed down overwhelmingly towards the distant skeleton army.


    Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation��this was the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation.


    Qianyou stared in astonishment at this terrifying Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation. Zhongshan had previously used this formation to dominate the Youfu Turn Pce, butpared to Yinn''s current deployment of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, it was still inferior. Truly worthy of someone who had integrated with the Formation Spirit.


    From afar, Iron Blood Zhang''s mouth hung open in shock. Previously, in the Eternal Life Hall, he had faced off against Lin Xiao and been killed without a trace left behind. While he admired Yinn''s prowess on the battlefield, he didn''t think she was more formidable than Lin Xiao. However, witnessing her now, he couldn''t help but marvel. Finally, he acknowledged it in awe.


    Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation? This was the most wless Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation? It was terrifying, wless. Even in the face of an expert like himself, wouldn''t they also refuse to show weakness?


    "Peng~~~~~~~~~"


    The sand tsunami collided with the first wave of skeletons.


    "Swoosh~~~~~~~~~"


    In the initial collision, most of the skeletons were instantly shattered. Only a very few managed to avoid being dispersed and were instead swallowed up by the sandstorm, drawn into the heart of the true formation.


    Mr. Corpse, observing from afar, narrowed his eyes and opened his mouth.


    "~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    No sound whatsoever, yet the air in front of Mr. Corpse undeniably trembled.


    No sound? No, it was ultrasonic waves!


    Although most people couldn''t perceive it, the skeletons did. Following Mr. Corpse''smand, subsequent waves of skeletons slowly emerged from their eerie positions, organizing themselves into a peculiar formation in preparation to confront the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation.


    Formation? Skeleton formation?


    On the Bronze War Ind, Zhongshan furrowed his brow slightly.


    Every hundred skeletons gathered formed small formations. These small formations weren''t as terrifying as the sandstorm but emitted arge amount of ck and ghostly energy around them��ghostly energy, reminiscent of what Zhongshan had seen at the Youfu Rotating Pce?


    The eerie ghostly energy enveloped the hundred skeletons, immediately shielding them from the sandstorm''s assault, as they charged toward the sandstorm.


    The sandstorm grewrger andrger. Controlled by Yinn, it moved relentlessly closer towards the central Mr. Corpse, continuously attacking Mr. Corpse. For those skeletons that could be dispersed, they were dispersed; for those that could be destroyed, they were destroyed. If it was truly impossible, they didn''t bother, because once the central Mr. Corpse was dealt with, these skeletons would certainly fall apart on their own.


    "Whoosh~~~ Pound~~~ Boom~~~"


    The sandstorm became increasingly enormous, wave after wave crashing towards the center where Mr. Corpse stood.


    Mr. Corpse narrowed his eyes, showing no fear at all. Slowly, from the ground beneath his feet, twenty pale-faced figures floated up.


    No, not humans��zombies. Twenty zombies floated around Mr. Corpse, their eyes suddenly opening with a crimson glow, emitting a chilling malevolence.


    "Pound~~~"


    Finally, the massive roar reached the very center, engulfing Mr. Corpse along with the twenty zombies into the formation.


    In that instant of being swallowed, Mr. Corpse remained fearless. The twenty zombies shimmered, forming a huge crimson barrier that enveloped Mr. Corpsepletely, leaving him unscathed.


    "Stay here, I''ll be back soon!" Zhongshan spoke lightly atop the Bronze War Ind.


    Everyone was slightly puzzled, but they also knew Zhongshan never did anything uncertain. They nodded quietly, not saying more.


    Flying through the air, Zhongshan watched countless skeletonsboring in the desert, paying them no mind, and headed straight for the sandstorm.


    After swallowing Mr. Corpse, the sandstorm no longer surged towards farther ces. Instead, it formed a huge hemisphere right where it was, spinning rapidly like a vortex.


    Approaching the sandstorm, Zhongshan said, "Yinn, ce Mr. Corpse at the Dead Gate, withdraw all internal personnel, and let me meet Mr. Corpse."


    The sandstorm rotated slowly. Soon, at its highest point, a giant gate appeared with a prominent ''Death'' character on it.


    Stepping forward, Zhongshan entered.


    Instantly inside the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, another small world emerged��profoundly dim with a vast number of skeleton and zombie battles.


    Inside the Death Gate were zombies within the formation attacking the enclosed skeletons directly.


    At the center, Mr. Corpse stood on a grassy patch, surrounded by twenty high-level zombies guarding him. Lower-level zombies outside couldn''t even attack Mr. Corpse.


    Stepping onto this dim earth, Zhongshan looked at Mr. Corpse in the distance, who looked back at Zhongshan. Beside Zhongshan, a beam of light shed, and Yinn''s projection appeared.

 Chapter 378: Reclaiming Mr. Corpse

    <h4>Chapter 378: Reiming Mr. Corpse</h4>


    "Master uncle!" Yinn''s projection appeared and called out.


    "Hmm," Zhongshan nodded.


    Mr. Corpse stared fixedly at Zhongshan from afar, a hint of malice curling his lips as he made a gesture, producing a strange little bell in his hand.


    "Dang dang, dang dang..."


    Mr. Corpse continuously shook the bell. Suddenly, the zombies that were battling the skeletons stopped abruptly and turned to attack other zombies.


    "No, these are the zombies controlled by the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array. He... he has taken control of some of the zombies within the array!" Yinn eximed in surprise.


    Turning the tables?


    Mr. Corpse could actually control the zombies within the array.


    Moreover, as the bell in his hand continued to ring, Mr. Corpse''s control over the zombies grew. More and more zombies ''defected'' to Mr. Corpse within the array, and in an instant, he shifted from being passive to taking the initiative.


    "Zombies? This is my domain; you shouldn''t let me into the Dead Gate!" Mr. Corpse spoke slowly and deliberately.


    "Yinn, withdraw all the zombies!" Zhongshanmanded.


    "Yes," Yinn immediately nodded.


    Following Yinn''s gesture, nearly half of the zombies disappeared suddenly, but there were still close to a thousand zombies that couldn''t be dismissed so easily.


    "Master uncle, I can''t control them anymore," Yinn said anxiously.


    "It''s alright," Zhongshan said calmly.


    "Zhongshan!" Mr. Corpse squinted his eyes from a distance.


    "Mr. Corpse," Zhongshan smiled lightly.


    "Is this your grand array? It''s interesting, but it can''t trap me!" Mr. Corpse shook his head.


    Suddenly, the ground trembled, and masses of zombies, even copper zombies, surged up from the earth. These zombies weren''t skilled enough to use earth travel freely, but they could emerge from the soil.


    "Master uncle, these zombies didn''te from my array; he summoned them!" Yinn eximed immediately.


    Watching more and more zombies crawl out of the ground, Zhongshan''s brow furrowed, his eyes locked firmly on Mr. Corpse.


    "Mr. Corpse, do you remember your promise from the past? Can it still be fulfilled?" Zhongshan stared at Mr. Corpse.


    "That promise? Hehe, I''ve never failed to fulfill my words, but you can''t defeat me. Of course, if the strong ones from your floating ind join forces, maybe there''s a chance. However, this isn''t my domain. If you want to make me submit to the Great Ru Mountain Dynasty, you must defeat me in my domain! Can you?" Mr. Corpse chuckled strangely.


    Zhongshan looked steadily at Mr. Corpse and said confidently, "I can."


    Mr. Corpse narrowed his eyes.


    "Then set up your formation! I''ll make you acknowledge me wholeheartedly this time!" Zhongshan smiled faintly.


    Mr. Corpse furrowed his brows slightly but didn''t stop his actions. With a wave of his hand, nearly five thousand zombies appeared on the ground, each with red eyes, advancing directly toward Zhongshan.


    "My domain, do you understand it? Hehe, then let''s begin!" Mr. Corpse sneered.


    "Yinn, seal off this space. Send out your projection," Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Yinn responded immediately. Soon, the surroundings fell silent.


    Mr. Corpse continued to watch coldly, allowing numerous zombies in front of him to march towards Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan smiled faintly and said, "Watch closely."


    Seeing Zhongshan''s serious demeanor, Mr. Corpse felt something amiss, but he couldn''t believe that Zhongshan could surpass him in his own domain. In the current world, who could possibly surpass him in this domain?


    Mr. Corpse remained supremely confident, staring coldly at Zhongshan.


    Suddenly, Zhongshan rolled up his sleeves and performed a strange hand seal.


    "Seal~~~~~~~~~~~" Zhongshan''s eyes widened.


    In an instant, in Mr. Corpse''s eyes, Zhongshan transformed into a giant talisman.


    This talisman suddenly emitted billions of purple-ck lights, radiating in all directions like the endless brilliance of the heavens.


    No, it wasn''t just light; it was countless shadowy talismans. A vast number of talismans, centered around Zhongshan, shot out in all directions towards the sky, the earth, the zombies, and Mr. Corpse.


    "Crackle crackle crackle...."


    With a faint sound, every zombie''s head suddenly had a talisman affixed to it, and every skeleton''s head also bore a shadowy talisman.


    The sky and the earth were covered with talismans. The moment the talismans adhered to the zombies'' foreheads, they instantly froze in ce. Even Mr. Corpse''s strongest zombies were immobilized, while the skeletons couldn''t move at all, as if sealed in an instant.


    Sealed! Even the earth was sealed; how could the zombies underground climb up again?


    Where Mr. Corpse stood, hundreds of talismans surged towards him.


    Mr. Corpse stared wide-eyed at this eerie sight. If it were anyone else, they would have been sealed before they could react. But Mr. Corpse was extraordinary; he possessed a ''Blood-dripping Heart,'' his magical treasure.


    In the instant before Mr. Corpse was about to be sealed, the Blood-dripping Heart suddenly floated in front of him, forming a red heart-shaped shield that protected him.


    "Plop plop plop plop....."


    The red light shield immediately blocked the approaching endless shadowy talismans. The talisman shadows collided with the red shield, emitting a series of impacts.


    The Ink Jade Talisman seemed challenged and dignified, as arge number of talisman shadows surged towards Mr. Corpse, relentlessly pounding against the red shield.


    "Great Myriad Talisman Radiance~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Finally, Mr. Corpse was astonished, shouting out a spell name that even Zhongshan hadn''t heard of.


    Great Myriad Talisman Radiance? Zhongshan wasn''t conducting any Great Myriad Talisman Radiance. But would Zhongshan bother to exin?


    The terrifying power of the Ink Jade Talisman became clear during this time. Once every hundred days, it could seal off everything within a closed environment for one hour. Having waited painstakingly for another hundred days, today was the day it could finally be unleashed. Zhongshan spared no expense against Mr. Corpse.


    The red light shield around Mr. Corpse trembled violently. Mr. Corpse''s eyes showed astonishment beyond words. Great Myriad Talisman Radiance? How could this be possible? I haven''t even reached that realm, and yet he... he did it?


    "Alright, stop the sealing. I''ll join the Great Ru Mountain Dynasty!" Mr. Corpse shouted.


    "Hum~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Zhongshan halted the Ink Jade Talisman from continuing its assault, but it remained in ce.


    Seeing the shadowy talisman no longer advancing towards him, Mr. Corpse, with a hint of panic in his eyes, retrieved the Blood-dripping Heart. He looked at Zhongshan, his eyes shing with astonishment, fear, and a hint of admiration.


    "Wee, Mr. Corpse, to Great Ru!" Zhongshan eximed with a smile.


    Taking a deep breath, Mr. Corpse replied, "I pay my respects, Your Majesty."


    "Hahaha, good! May I know your name?" Zhongshan asked.


    "I ask Your Majesty''s forgiveness; my name remains taboo for now. Besides myself, no one else can utter it, not even my master. Once I am able to lift this taboo, I will inform Your Majesty," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Very well, then I shall continue to address you as Mr. Corpse!" Zhongshan chuckled.


    "Thank you! As for these zombies..." Mr. Corpse gestured towards the sealed zombies.


    "Can Mr. Corpse release them?" Zhongshan inquired.


    "I''ll try," Mr. Corpse replied.


    He then retrieved the Blood-dripping Heart once more, gently activated it, and a burst of red light erupted onto the zombies'' faces, causing the shadowy talismanic marks to instantly dissipate. However, he could only emit a small amount of red light each time. Faced with the countless talismans covering the sky and ground, Mr. Corpse could only sigh helplessly.


    "Your Majesty, these Limbo Talismans are too formidable!" Mr. Corpse remarked.


    "Hmm! They''ll dissipate on their own shortly," Zhongshan replied with a smile.


    "Oh?" Mr. Corpse looked surprised.


    "What, have you seen someone else use a simr technique before?" Zhongshan stared at Mr. Corpse.


    Mr. Corpse hesitated for a moment before responding, "Yes, but he has already passed away."


    "Oh?" Zhongshan frowned. Could there be someone else capable of such a feat?


    "He sought to exterminate my sect and perished alongside my master," Mr. Corpse said solemnly.


    "Hmm!" Zhongshan nodded.


    "Your Majesty, I have an uneasy request," Mr. Corpse suddenly spoke up.


    "Please, go ahead," Zhongshan replied with curiosity.


    "When I came out, as a way to repay thest of six favors owed, I promised to dy the armies of Great Ru for a month..." Mr. Corpse hesitated.


    "Then I will wait for a month before advancing on the City of Jinling," Zhongshan immediately agreed.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," Mr. Corpse said, furrowing his brow and taking a deep breath.


    .......


    The two conversed further, with Zhongshan continuing to woo Mr. Corpse. Though Zhongshan had seeded in enlisting him, he knew there was still a long way to go. Zhongshan understood that Mr. Corpse''s willingness to stay wasrgely due to the Ink Jade Talisman. The future held many challenges ahead.


    As an hour passed, the countless zombies and skeletons were able to move freely once again.


    Mr. Corpse waved his hand, causing many zombies to sink back into the ground, while skeletons quickly disintegrated, bing useless.


    Witnessing this scene, Zhongshan grew increasingly astonished.


    "Eng Lan, let''s go out," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" Eng Lan''s voice echoed from all around.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, a huge gate emerged from the earth.


    The two stepped out. They were back in the outside world, amidst the endless desert.


    Slowly ascending into the sky, they headed towards the Bronze War Ind.


    Everyone was astonished to see Mr. Corpse standing beside Zhongshan. Below, the endless sandstorm abruptly dissipated, and the vast desert retreated madly, leaving only a few remnants of sand and stones that had yet to recover.


    With the grand formation withdrawn, Eng Lan''s eighty thousand troops were revealed. Alongside Zhongshan, Eng Lan swiftly ascended to the Bronze War Ind.


    Upon the Bronze War Ind, all eyes were fixed on Mr. Corpse.


    "I hereby appoint Mr. Corpse as the Commander of the Fourth Legion of the Great Ru Dynasty, effective immediately," Zhongshan dered.


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 379 - 379 Decisive Battle at Jinling City

    <h4>Chapter 379: Decisive Battle at Jinling City</h4>


    "Effective immediately, I appoint Mr. Corpse as the Commander of the Fourth Legion of Great Ru Dynasty!" Zhongshanmanded.


    "Congrattions, Mr. Corpse!" Most people on the War Ind congratted him.


    Hearing Zhongshan''s promation, Mr. Corpse frowned slightly. He turned to look at Zhongshan and replied, "Yes."


    Mr. Corpse, despite possessing mysterious abilities, was far from the level of a legionmander. Yet Zhongshan had elevated him. The true intentions behind this decision were known only to the cunning minds on the Bronze War Ind.


    "Prepare the troops and rest. We attack the City of Jinling in one month!" Zhongshan issued his orders once more.


    "Yes!" Everyone immediately responded.


    Though slightly puzzled, no one dared to defy Zhongshan''smand.


    "Why did Zhongshan suddenly stop? Because of this guy?" Haomeili nced at Mr. Corpse, her expression cold.


    Mr. Corpse remained impassive as he nced back at Haomeili before turning away without a word.


    Seeing Haomeili''s blunt words, Zhongshan furrowed his brow but showed no signs of anger. He shook his head and said, "This is my decision!"


    "Hmph! Stopping just like that, how dull!" Haomeili said directly before turning and leaving.


    "Your Majesty, regarding the Yin Yue Dynasty..." Mr. Corpse suddenly turned to Zhongshan.


    "No need for you to intervene," Zhongshan interrupted.


    "Thank you!" Mr. Corpse nodded gratefully.


    Yin Yue Dynasty, Jinling City, Six Paths Study.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    In anger, Six Paths mmed his palm down, shattering the desk in front of him. None of his attendants dared to speak up. One seemingly young man at the desk was trembling.


    "The Commander of the Fourth Legion? Fine! Fine! Zhongshan, you act quickly!" Six Pathsmented bitterly.


    The true origins of Mr. Corpse might be known only to Six Paths in this world. He had unwittingly allowed Mr. Corpse to defect. If he had known earlier, Six Paths would have abandoned the foundation of the Tiang Ind, leading a group of elites and troops into thend of Shenzhou. But now, it was toote.


    Zhongshan must be defeated for Mr. Corpse to return.


    ncing around, the attendants, only Du Xiu dared to speak up, "Your Majesty, no matter what, the troops of Great Ru Dynasty have halted their advance. They won''t invade for at least a month."


    Six Paths raised his head, red fiercely at Du Xiu, then took a deep breath to suppress his anger.


    Seeing Six Paths'' expression, Du Xiu felt a sudden tightening in his heart.


    "Qiyue!" Six Paths turned to the somewhat timid man beside the desk.


    "Father Emperor!" The man immediately responded.


    "I asked you to build a good rtionship with Xiao Wu. How has your recent interaction with him been?" Six Paths asked in a deep voice.


    "Very... very good!" Qiyue replied promptly.


    "Hmm, you are the Crown Prince of Yin Yue Dynasty. If the Empress and I are absent, you will be in charge of mobilizing the three armies. Build a good rtionship with Xiao Wu and prepare for the decisive battle in a month!" Six Paths exhaled deeply.


    "Yes!" Qiyue responded promptly.


    One monthter.


    "Set off!~~~~~~~~~~~~" On the Bronze War Ind, Zhongshan shouted loudly.


    "Roar!~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Five million troops roared in unison as they marched towards Jinling City.


    Their objective: to capture Jinling City, overthrow the Yin Yue Dynasty, and thus dominate the Tiang Ind alone.


    The army marched swiftly. Atop the Bronze Battle Ind, everyone was full of vigor, preparing for the final showdown.


    The Battle for Jinling City!


    "Xuanwu, it''s actually the Xuanwu n!" Beside the dragon throne, Yi Yan unexpectedly chuckled.


    "So what if it''s the Xuanwu n? The tide has already turned. Even with the Dragon n''s assistance, it''s impossible to reverse our fate!" Zhongshan said confidently.


    "Roar~~~" The small golden dragon on Hao Mei''s shoulder immediately protested.


    Turning his head to nce at the small golden dragon, Zhongshan smiled, "It''s just an analogy! It''s not meant to belittle the Dragon n."


    "But I''m somewhat worried!" Princess Qianyou suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan looked towards Qianyou.


    "The Xuanwu n, Xianxian is of the Wolf n''s origin bloodline, Xiaojin is of the Dragon n''s origin bloodline, and the Xuanwu n, it''s said that twenty years ago, a young Xuanwu with origin bloodline suddenly appeared." Princess Qianyou exined.


    "Twenty years ago?" Zhongshan''s pupils contracted.


    "That young Xuanwu in Jinling City is only twenty years old?" Yi Yan furrowed his brows.


    "What''s wrong with being twenty?" Hao Mei asked.


    "Being twenty means that this young Xuanwu is very weak, very weak indeed. But they still let hime out confidently, which implies there''s a very powerful Xuanwu protecting him!" Yinn pondered for a moment.


    "How powerful is this ''very powerful''?" Hao Mei showed a hint of disdain on her face.


    "Don''t worry, there''s always a solution. Besides, the Wolf Generals won''t interfere in our battlefield. Will the experts of the Xuanwu n join the battle? Each faction has its own rules." Zhongshan reassured them.


    "Alright." Everyone nodded.


    With Zhongshan''s five million army marching for three days and resting briefly before another day''s journey, they finally arrived at the outskirts of Jinling City. The ultimate battle was about to begin.


    In the distance stood a massive city, not as grand as those on the maind, but its walls towered five hundred meters high. There were no true dragons of imperial fortune circling above Jinling City, nor were there statues of gods as in the Heavenly Capital. However, having be an imperial capital, faint golden fortunes already surged over the imperial city.


    With fortunes swirling faintly yet majestically, it exuded an imperial aura. The army of Zhongshan approached from the south of Jinling City, majestic and stirring up clouds of dust. With the Bronze Battle Ind behind them, their momentum was unparalleled. They halted their advance from a considerable distance.


    On the Bronze Battle Ind, Zhongshan, dressed in battle dragon robes, sat coldly on the dragon throne, hands resting on its arms, eyes fixed coldly into the distance.


    Atop the southern city tower of Jinling City in the distance.


    Liu Dao, draped in dragon robes, stood proudly at the pinnacle of the tower. Several figures stood beside him, all of whom Zhongshan scanned one by one.


    To Liu Dao''s left was a figure cloaked in ck, the Empress of Yin Yue Dynasty, whose practice of a certain secret artpelled her to always wear ck robes. To his right was a young man holding a small Xuanwu, none other than the Crown Prince of Yin Yue Dynasty, Seven Nights!


    Standing beside the Crown Prince was another man with fairplexion.


    "Xuanyan, it''s him!" Princess Qianyou''s eyes widened.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan looked puzzled.


    "Beside the Crown Prince, that man, I know him. He once paid homage at the Ancient Holy Capital. A rare Emperor Realm powerhouse of the Xuanwu n, Xuanyan. How could it be him?" Princess Qianyou looked worried.


    "Emperor Realm? Everyone was startled by Bao Er''s words. Emperor Realm? Isn''t that on par with the Great Xuan King? Comparable to Emperor Nn''s strength?


    "Just like our Wolf Generals, we won''t intervene, and Xuanyan probably won''t either," Qingyun Wolf General said.


    After Qingyun Wolf General finished speaking, everyone rxed a bit.


    However, the Wolf Generals remained very cautious and protective of Xianxian. They wouldn''t intervene; their only purpose in joining Zhongshan''s war was to protect Xianxian. After all, if Xianxian insisted oning, they could only indulge her on their own territory. If you want to y on our turf, then y. We''ll protect you.


    As everyone watched, Xuanyan looked back at them as well.


    As Xuan Yan looked at the Bronze Battle Ind, initially he was dismissive. Previously, he had only known of one dynasty that sought to attack the Yin Yue Dynasty, and he held them in utter contempt. However, upon seeing the figures atop it, his brows furrowed.


    Princess Qianyou? Princess of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty? Holding the position between heaven and earth? Is it her?


    And there''s the Little White Wolf, of the Wolf n''s origin bloodline? The small golden dragon, of the Dragon n''s origin bloodline? Who is the girl standing on the shoulder of the small golden dragon?


    Xuanyan was not someone who shied away from trouble. After all, having cultivated to the Emperor Realm, he was a figure who could shake thend with a stomp anywhere on the divinend of Shenzhou. How could such a person be timid? Beforeing here, Xuanyan had also scorned Liu Dao. However, upon seeing the people on the Bronze Battle Ind, Xuanyan immediately became cautious.


    Regardless of whether they would act or not, the dragon and wolf among them were off-limits.


    Princess Qianyou? Xuanyan knew well the strength of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty''s military might. Dealing with Princess Qianyou would also require caution regarding the Ancient Divine Techniques. As for the Little White Wolf, it was clear he was here just to watch the show. This was Tiang Ind, and although the Supreme Emperor of the Wolf n, Di Xuan Sha, had note, no one dared provoke his wrath. That guy was as terrifying as the Ancient Divine Techniques, if not more so when enraged. As for the girl with the Dragon n''s origin bloodline, Xuanyan didn''t know her background, but he didn''t want to make enemies with the Dragon Pce because of her.


    A small dynasty actually presented four figures he needed to be wary of at once? Quite interesting! Xuanyan looked towards the Bronze Battle Ind in the distance.


    Why did Zhongshan halt the army?


    It was because outside Jinling City, nearly a hundred gigantic brown tortoises had appeared, ten of them reaching lengths of fifty meters. Ancient and massive, each tortoise''s back was covered with numerous bone spikes, looking ferocious.


    The gigantic tortoisesy outside Jinling City, coldly staring towards the Bronze Battle Ind in the distance.


    "The Xuanwu Generals? They''ve actually joined the battle?" Qingyun Wolf General eximed incredulously.


    It was no wonder Qingyun Wolf General found it strange. These Xuanwu Generals, with their Emperor Realm strength, were like the Wolf Generals. Unless they were called back or held important positions in the court, they wouldn''t simply participate in the wars of Yun Chao, even under a treaty. It''s impossible!


    "But they have indeed joined the battle. Just a month? Hmph, what did Liu Dao add to his forces? Turns out it''s just some tortoises." Zhongshan sneered.


    Zhongshan stared directly at Liu Dao in the distance. Liu Dao also stared back at Zhongshan.


    Two emperors stood coldly opposed at a considerable distance.


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 380: Fierce Zhongshan

    <h4>Chapter 380: Fierce Zhongshan</h4>


    "Liu Dao, do you remember me?" Zhongshan asked coldly, looking into the distance.


    "You''re a locust I''d love to crush!" Liu Dao replied coldly from the distant city tower.


    "Heh, you''ll never get that chance!" Zhongshan said, waving his hand.


    "Roar~~~" Five million soldiers roared in unison, their voices echoing through the sky.


    "Boom boom boom~~~"


    In the center of the battlefield, a series of thunderous explosions resounded. On the ground, around the myriad tortoises, countless earth spikes suddenly emerged.


    The ground spikes were densely packed, shooting up into the sky, ranging from a hundred meters tall to just half a meter, gleaming ck as if forged from endless molten iron, cold and solid. In an instant, the southern region of Jinling City was filled with these massive earth spikes, each one piercing up from the ground, blocking the path of Zhongshan''s army.


    Xuanwu, this was the battlefield obstruction created by the myriad tortoises.


    Zhongshan sneered disdainfully.


    "Yinn, use the Eight-Gate Gold Lock Formation to clear out this rubbish!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Yinn acknowledged themand.


    Yinn jumped down from the floating ind, and simultaneously, eighty thousand people forming the foundation of the Eight-Gate Gold Lock Formation quickly moved into position, waiting for Yinn to descend.


    The moment Yinn entered the formation, dust and sand once again rose, enveloping Yinn in a swirling mass of yellow sand.


    The swirling yellow sand, centered around the Eight-Gate Gold Lock Formation, swiftly formed into a gigantic rotating sandstorm sphere. The sphere continued to spin, causing extensive desertification of the surrounding area, the sandstorm raging loudly, roaring incessantly.


    Once enough power had been gathered.


    "Boom~~~" The sandstorm began, wave after wave of sandstorms surged ferociously towards Jinling City. Wherever they passed, everything in their path was obliterated, thend turning into sand, a terrifying onught.


    The first round faced the endless earth spikes.


    As one wave of sand surged forward, it quickly buried the earth spikes, advancing further ahead. However, the earth spikes weren''t willing to yield; a multitude of them shot up again, piercing through the desert.


    The sand assimted into thend, and the earth spikes also assimted into thend. The two forces intertwined, continuously shifting the parts of each other they had just assimted.


    In the center of the battlefield, dust and sand filled the air. The earth spikes pierced through the desert, were buried by the sandstorm, pierced through again, buried once more.


    The center of the battlefield resounded with continuous explosions, as the Eight-Gate Gold Lock Formation encountered formidable opponents.


    However, achieving this with Yinn''s current cultivation level was extremely difficult. Nevertheless, while the two forces continued to intertwine, the desert was slowly being pushed forward, proving Yinn''s power had the upper hand.


    At this moment, on the distant city tower, Liu Dao and the others began to make way, leaving space, except for the Grand Empress wrapped in the ck robe, who suddenly stepped forward.


    Seeing the Grand Empress step forward, Zhongshan frowned and cautioned, "Be careful!"


    Everyone had already heard Zhongshan mention how formidable the Grand Empress might be, so they were naturally very cautious.


    The head of the Grand Empress was also hidden under the brim of her hat. Suddenly, a ck mist emerged from the seemingly pitch-ck brim.


    After the ck mist emerged, it floated in front of the Grand Empress and slowly condensed into eight characters in mid-air.


    "Guihai, Jiazi, Gengwu, Wuyin."


    Seeing these eight characters, Zhongshan''s pupils contracted, a sense of unease instantly creeping over him.


    "Yinn, what are Yinn''s birth details?" Not just Zhongshan, but everyone who knew Yinn''s birth details furrowed their brows. Mr. Shi, who had been standing quietly at the back of the crowd, narrowed his eyes when he saw the birth details appearing in front of the Grand Empress.


    "Disperse~~~" The Grand Empress murmured softly.


    With a light utterance, the eight pitch-ck birth characters slowly dissipated like ck smoke.


    "Iron Blood~~~" Zhongshan suddenly roared.


    "Boom~~~" The Eight-Gate Gold Lock Formation instantly exploded. The Eight-Gate Gold Lock Formation was broken?


    The endless yellow sand no longer danced in the sky, seemingly sted apart by the countless earth spikes. The formation was broken! The earth spikes shot up one by one, swiftly upying the sandstorm environment. At the same time, soldiers from the broken formation were stabbed to death with a thunderous crash, blood staining the sky.


    "Ah~~~"


    "Screams continued endlessly, one soldier after another from the Great Duk Dynasty was pierced through the heart.


    For the first time, the Great Duk Army suffered a devastating defeat.


    In the center of the army, Yinn''s face turned pale, her eyes closed, and she copsed. A massive earth spike shot straight up from below, as if it could pierce Yinn in an instant.


    "Phew~~~"


    At this critical moment, a shadow shed by, and Yinn disappeared from where she was.


    It was Iron Blood, who received Zhongshan''smand and rushed to the battlefield, swiftly rescuing Yinn. In an instant, they arrived on the Bronze Battle Ind.


    Once the Eight-Gate Gold Lock Formation was broken, the eighty thousand foundation members of the formation panicked and fled. However, among the countless earth spikes, only a very small fraction managed to escape. Countless soldiers died tragically!


    Zhongshan took Yinn from Iron Blood as soon as they arrived.


    Yinn''s face, which had been pale before, had turned a dark bluish color, as if poisoned yet not. Zhongshan quickly examined her, but found nothing.


    "Come and take a look, what''s wrong with Yinn?" Zhongshan stared, shouting at everyone.


    Obviously, Zhongshan cared deeply for Yinn. No one med him and immediately gathered around.


    "She''s under a curse!" Yi Yan, with his broad knowledge, said immediately.


    "How do we break it?" Zhongshan stared at Yi Yan.


    "It can''t be broken unless the person who cast the ''curse'' on her is destroyed by the curse itself," Yi Yan said immediately.


    "Then break it. Kill that Grand Empress!" Zhongshan''s eyes turned cold.


    "No, breaking the curse isn''t about killing her. Even if the Grand Empress dies, her soul will still carry the curse into the underworld. Then, Yinn will be beyond saving. We must destroy her through her own curse, let her own curse destroy herself. On the Divine Land, there are few people who can use ''cursenguage'', and if you want to break the curse, you generally need someone with higher proficiency in cursenguage than her," Yi Yan frowned.


    "How long does Yinn have left?" Zhongshan stared at Yi Yan.


    "I''m not sure, it depends on how strong this curse of the Grand Empress is. Moreover, besides using her birth details, I don''t know what other cursenguages she might know," Yi Yan sighed.


    "Zhongshan, do you want me to help you?" Haomeili suddenly smiled.


    Everyone was anxious, but Haomeili seemed delighted. Everyone looked displeased, and Zhongshan stared at Haomeili, narrowing his eyes, "I''ll trouble you!"


    "Why should I..." Haomeili seemed about to tap her bamboo pole.


    "Time is of the essence. We''ll talk about any conditions after Yinn recovers. I, Zhongshan, will not forget this favor," Zhongshan immediately dered.


    "Alright!" Haomeili frowned slightly, but ultimately nodded.


    "Zhongshan!~~~" Six Dao shouted loudly from afar during this period.


    Zhongshan turned his head sharply, ring fiercely in the direction of the shout.


    "Wishing to seize the fortune of my dynasty isn''t enough just with troops. Kings must confront each other. Let''s go!" Six Dao shouted loudly.


    Zhongshan raised an eyebrow. Indeed, to seize the fortune of the Yin Yue Dynasty, he must personally defeat Six Dao.


    With Haomeili dealing with the Grand Empress, it was good that Six Dao wasn''t by her side. Otherwise, with Six Dao''s talent, detecting and obstructing their ns wouldn''t be favorable.


    He gently handed Yinn over to Bao''er.


    ncing at Six Dao, both of them simultaneously soared into the sky and headed west.


    They sought an absolutely quiet ce where no one would disturb them.


    After half an hour of flight, they arrived at an incredibly deste stone forest. As far as the eye could see, there were countless stone mountains, with no vegetation on the barren ground, giving it an extremely deste appearance.


    Theynded sessively on the summits of two stone mountains.


    Six Dao smirked coldly, "In just over twenty years, from an innate realm with such poor aptitude, you''ve actually reached the Nascent Soul stage. It''s truly admirable!"


    Zhongshan flipped his hand and produced a small yellow bottle. While gently pouring out a yellow pill, he said, "Six Dao, at the Nascent Soul stage, founding a dynasty with this cultivation is extraordinary. Every ruler of a dynasty in the Divine Land is a supreme expert."


    "What, do you think you can defeat me?" Six Dao looked at Zhongshan coldly.


    Zhongshan flipped his hand and threw the yellow pill into his mouth.


    "What are you eating?" Six Dao asked in confusion.


    "Frenzy Pill. By taking it, I can defeat you!" Zhongshan said.


    The Frenzy Pill, a fourth-grade pill, was not from Bao''er''s sect but one Zhongshan had obtained himself after killing an old man who had tried to possess Tianling''er at the bottom of a volcano. Only now had it been refined ording to the pill recipe by Bao''er''s sect.


    A Frenzy Pill? Six Dao''s eyes showed a trace of disdain. How could a Nascent Soul cultivator defeat a Combined Stage cultivator just by taking a pill? It was impossible!


    At that moment, a strong wind suddenly swept around Zhongshan''s body, spreading outwards in all directions from his center, causing a powerful aura to burst forth.


    Six Dao frowned and looked at Zhongshan. His aura was skyrocketing madly, and Zhongshan''s eyes suddenly turned bloodshot. His muscles on his body quickly swelled, protruding inrge chunks, causing the dragon battle robe he wore to tear in some ces.


    Demon Body Tempering Technique! Fourth Stage!


    "Crack~~~" A series of bone-dislocating sounds rang out, as if Zhongshan''s bones were shifting.


    Demon Body Tempering Technique! Fifth Stage!


    In an instant, as Zhongshan once again activated the Demon Body Tempering Technique, he unexpectedly broke through to the Fifth Stage.


    Demon Body Tempering Technique! Fifth Stage, six times the strength, coupled with the Frenzy Pill, which crazily enhanced his power. Zhongshan suddenly felt his whole body filled with strength. His terrifying muscles increased once again, and Zhongshan''s originally huge body seemed to suddenly double in size, assuming a terrifying and ferocious form.


    "Roar~~~" Zhongshan roared to the sky, the sound of breaking gold and splitting stones causing the surrounding mountains to copse continuously.


    A cold light shed in his bloodshot eyes. Zhongshan stomped his foot.


    "Boom~~~"


    The mountaintop under his feet was instantly shattered by Zhongshan''s stomp. Zhongshan''s figure shot towards Six Dao like mad, with a terrifying speed, bringing with it a strong gust of aura. Zhongshan didn''t use a sword; his right fist clenched, his veins full of power, and with a punch full of infinite momentum, he fiercely smashed towards Six Dao.


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 381: Doppelganger

    <h4>Chapter 381: Doppelganger</h4>


    Seeing the ferocious side of Zhongshan after swallowing the elixir, Liu Dao''s expression grew increasingly solemn.


    In the instant Zhongshan charged, Liu Dao had already noticed that Zhongshan''s speed had surged to the level of early Harmonization Stage within this brief moment. But what about his physical body? What about his strength?


    Liu Dao''s eyes turned cold. He nted his feet in a bow stance, reversed his fist, and fiercely collided with Zhongshan''s approaching fist.


    Where their fists met, strong astral winds erupted, seemingly pushing the air ahead of them.


    Under Zhongshan''s fierce gaze, their explosive fists collided.


    "Boom~~~~~~"


    The sh of fists produced a tremendous roar, and the astral winds shattered as if they were breaking through folded air, leaving eerie cracks in their wake.


    A full-powered sh of the Harmonization Stage.


    "Peng~~~~~~" "Peng~~~~~~~~"


    They staggered backward, each smashing a mountain and creating caves beforeing to a halt.


    They swiftly burst out of the caves, ascending into the sky once more. Liu Dao couldn''t believe it��Yuanying Stage? What had Zhongshan consumed to leap from his cultivation to the Harmonization Stage? It was impossible. Even so, his physical body couldn''t possibly match mine in toughness.


    They charged out of the cave and shed again, bare-handed, smashing each other with their fists.


    Boom... Boom... Boom...


    They relentlessly exchanged blows, each strike carrying immense force. For an ordinary Yuanying Stage cultivator, a ncing blow from these fists would cause severe injuries. But they punched faster than thought, each refusing to yield.


    Liu Dao bore marks of the battle on his body, while Zhongshan''s clothes were merely torn, exposing his rugged muscles like molten iron, brimming with explosive power, unmarred by any sign of injury.


    Zhongshan and Liu Dao fought madly.


    Gradually, their figures disappeared from sight, leaving only the sound of explosive impacts echoing through the air. They battled in strength and speed.


    Apanying the explosive collisions, the rocky forest and surrounding mountains were continuously demolished and copsed by their incredible force. The ensuing astral winds swept up the rocks, pulverizing them into dust mid-air.


    Liu Dao repeatedly struck at Zhongshan''s core, unable to believe Zhongshan''s body could be so robust. How could it be? How could his physical body at the Yuanying Stage surpass mine? Isn''t the demonic body tempering the greatest advantage?


    Refusing to ept it, Liu Dao''s eyes zed as he continued pounding Zhongshan, relentlessly targeting his core, yet achieving no effect.


    Liu Dao sidestepped slightly, but Zhongshan struck him three times in session, causing intense pain. Yet at that moment, Liu Dao finally drew his own greatsword.


    He swung the massive de fiercely at Zhongshan.


    A tremendous de astral shed down. Zhongshan''s eyes glowed crimson as he gritted his teeth and fiercely smashed his fist against the de astral.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Zhong Shan was smashed into the ground by the force of the sh, yet the enormous sword energy that apanied the attack was shattered by his powerful punch. Despite his Purple Mansion being wounded, Zhong Shan showed no fear. Though his upper garments were torn to shreds, making him appear half-naked, he still wore an invisible piece of armor beneath��a gift from Princess Qian You, obtained from an ancient cultivator. This was the ''Liuli Heartguard Armor,'' a Grade Eight artifact that adhered to his body and remained concealed.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    As hended, Zhong Shan drew his broadsword, ''Nightmare,'' with a reverse grip and swung it towards the heavens, aiming to cleave through the veryws of the world.


    "Heavenly Decree! Wind Ripper!"


    "Rip~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The sky was torn asunder by a massive rift, extending towards the distant figure of Liudao. Confronting this gaping void, Liudao struck back with all his might.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Unable to withstand the tremendous impact, Liudao was sent hurtling skyward. The clouds dispersed as he soared, reducing to a mere ck speck before the terrifying force was finally dissipated.


    With a long howl, Zhong Shanunched himself skyward. Liudao, just recovering from the tremendous blow, looked on in horror. How could this be? How could a Nascent Soul stage cultivator wield such power?


    In an instant, Zhong Shan was upon him. He swung ''Nightmare'' once more, and this time, it wasn''t just a mere Wind Ripper. As the sword shed through the air, the void seemed to fill with a surge of lightning, gathering around the de and slicing towards Liudao with devastating force.


    All the surrounding energy was sealed by Zhong Shan, leaving Liudao with no escape. He could only roar and muster all his strength to counter.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Just like before, Zhong Shan''s ultimate move was overwhelmingly powerful. Liudao could only withstand it with great effort, before being struck downwards with even greater speed, apanied by a colossal bolt of lightning.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A thunderous crash shook the earth as Liudao impacted the ground. The terrain quaked as if struck by an earthquake, and cracks spread like a spider''s web from the point of impact.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The lightning struck Liudao again, engulfing the area in a ze of electric light. The web-like cracks deepened and widened, tearing the ground apart.


    "Zhong Shan!" Liudao''s voice roared from below.


    Zhong Shan descended swiftly once more, de raised for another strike.


    "Your empress is going to die!" Liudao shouted desperately.


    Zhong Shan''s hand paused, his eyes reddening as he red at the smoke-shrouded Liudao. Liudao''s clothes were charred ck, his hair disheveled, and he stared at Zhong Shan in disbelief.


    "What did you say?" Zhong Shan demanded, eyes wide with rage.


    "I said, your empress is going to die. Beforeing here, I made arrangements! Someone is already on their way to kill your empress! Gan Bao''er!" Liudao wiped the soot from his face with a sinister smile.


    He hadn''t anticipated Zhong Shan''s ferocity��how could he? A Nascent Soul stage cultivator? He had underestimated Zhong Shan. But what did it matter? Liudao, with his strategic brilliance, had nned contingencies. Yet, he couldn''t execute them while being relentlessly attacked by Zhong Shan. He needed to disrupt Zhong Shan''s rhythm to gain the upper hand. Only by throwing him off bnce could he ensure victory.


    "No one can kill her!" Zhong Shan retorted immediately.


    "What about Xuan Yan of the Imperial Extremity Realm?" Liudao replied, pulling out a round mirror.


    Zhong Shan saw the mirror in Liudao''s hand, but his primary concern was Bao''er''s safety.


    "Impossible! Why would Xuan Yan get involved?" Zhong Shan countered quickly.


    "Why not? The Xuanwu n favors their young master even more than the Wolf n does. If persuaded, the young Xuanwu would naturally order Xuan Yan to act. Haven''t you noticed how the crown prince has already established a good rtionship with the young Xuanwu? With just a word from the crown prince, Xuan Yan would kill Gan Bao''er." Liudao sneered.


    "I don''t believe it. But regardless, your words are enough for me to wipe out your entire n. You will die, your empress will die, and your crown prince will die too!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    A dragon''s reverse scale must not be touched, and neither must Zhong Shan''s. Liudao had crossed a line.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s increasingly dark expression, Liudao let out a cold smile and said, "Then let''s see if you''re willing to bet. Either way, you''re all going to die!"


    As Liudao finished speaking, he waved his hand, sending the mirror soaring into the sky, where it quickly disappeared.


    Seeing Liudao''s actions, Zhong Shan knew he wasn''t bluffing. What was he up to?


    Just then, a beam of light suddenly descended from the sky, shining directly onto Liudao''s head, as if the mirror had collected a massive amount of sunlight and was now reflecting it down.


    The beam illuminated Liudao, and in an instant, another beam shone beside him, creating a second Liudao.


    One after another, sixteen more beams of light shot down, producing sixteen additional Liudaos.


    Eighteen Liudaos now surrounded Zhong Shan, moving rapidly until it was impossible to tell which one was the original.


    Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes as the Liudaos encircled him, their figures flickering like ghosts, making it impossible to distinguish the real from the fake.


    All eighteen Liudaos let out a synchronized roar, wielding their broadswords and shing towards Zhong Shan.


    Not even his divine sense could detect the fakes. Zhong Shan braced himself and swung his broadsword fiercely at one of the Liudaos.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    He hit nothing but an illusion, a mere light shadow. Taking advantage of this, Zhong Shan dashed towards the edge of the circle, but the real Liudao managed tond a blow on his back.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Liuli Heartguard Armor protected Zhong Shan, but he still found himself in a precarious situation. He managed to evade the surrounding Liudaos and stared intently at the eighteen figures beneath the light beams.


    "Don''t bother trying to discern the real me. This mirrores from the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Below the Imperial Extremity Realm, no one can tell which is my true self and which are my projections!" The eighteen Liudaos sneered in unison.


    "Hmph, why bother to distinguish?" Zhong Shan scoffed.


    The Liudaos collectively widened their eyes and nced at the sky in disbelief. What was happening?


    Opposite them, Zhong Shan''s figure flickered slightly, and suddenly two more Zhong Shans appeared behind him, identical in every way.


    Impossible! How could he do that too?


    As the Liudaos stood stunned, the two new ''Zhong Shans'' flickered again, producing six more Zhong Shans, with even more continuing to emerge.


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 382: A Horde of Zhong Shans

    <h4>Chapter 382: A Horde of Zhong Shans</h4>


    <i>Please vote for me!</i>


    Suppressing his shock, Liudao red fiercely at Zhong Shan. Behind Zhong Shan, his doppelgangers continued to multiply. How could they be identical to his own? Even divine sense couldn''t differentiate them. His mirror was renowned in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, but Zhong Shan, without a mirror, was producing identical projections!


    More and more doppelgangers appeared. Including himself, Liudao had only eighteen figures, but Zhong Shan now had nearly a hundred behind him.


    "I nned to rely solely on my cultivation, but since you''re using doppelganger projections, let me show you what true doppelgangers look like!" Zhong Shan''s original self said coldly.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan''s original self released 128 shadow clones, surging towards Liudao like a tidal wave. This was the seventhyer of the "Ten Thousand Shadows Sutra."


    Since he had started practicing this technique, Zhong Shan had never revealed its power.


    Liudao smirked coldly. Because of his own cultivation technique, he kept his eyes fixed on Zhong Shan''s original body. As long as the original didn''t move, all the clones were fakes.


    Groups of four or five shadow clones confronted each of Liudao''s figures. Liudao dismissed them with contempt, until the moment when the five Zhong Shan clones each shed at his legs and arms. Only then did Liudao realize that these clones were all real.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A hundred and twenty-eight broadswords shed down, causing the earth to shake violently, raising clouds of dust and sending debris flying everywhere.


    However, shadow clones were still just shadows, possessing only half the strength of Zhong Shan''s Nascent Soul stage.


    Liudao managed to deflect one of the shes and escaped from the fray.


    As the dust settled below, over a hundred deep gashes were left on the ground.


    Liudao was stunned. He couldn''t believe that Zhong Shan had somehow shed the ground so rapidly that he missed it. This meant that all those clones were real?


    Despite the failed attempt, the 128 shadow clones split into two groups. Twenty-eight soared into the sky to find the mirror, while the remaining hundred, centered around Zhong Shan''s original self,unched a furious assault on Liudao.


    Although each shadow clone was weaker than Liudao, theirbined power was formidable. Together with Zhong Shan, they formed a formidable force. The sheer momentum of a hundred men attacking as one was overwhelming.


    Liudao, despite his eighteen forms, found himself repeatedly pushed back. What was the use of his eighteen forms against over a hundred true doppelgangers? His seventeen projections couldn''t make any difference.


    As the swarm of Zhong Shans closed in on him from all directions, Liudao grew increasingly anxious.


    In the sky, the twenty-eight shadow clones of Zhong Shan located Liudao''s mirror, floating high up and absorbing sunlight, creating seventeen mirror images around it. These mirrors together projected Liudao''s eighteen forms.


    The twenty-eight Zhong Shans struck simultaneously.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The mirror shattered into countless pieces with just a slight counterattack. The beams of light disappeared.


    Seventeen of the eighteen Liudaos below vanished instantly.


    Surrounded by over a hundred Zhong Shans, Liudao felt a surge of desperation. Was he going to lose?


    "Great Forbidden Art~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Liudao roared, his eyes turning blood red like Zhong Shan''s.


    Zhong Shan''s main body paused, aware that Liudao, pushed to the limit, was now using a technique to forcibly enhance his cultivation. It was akin to the Heaven Demonic Body Refining Technique but far more damaging to the body.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Liudao''s power seemed to surge abruptly. With a single sh, six of Zhong Shan''s shadow clones were obliterated, dissipating into ck smoke. Nearly five more were sent flying by the shockwave, vanishing into the air.


    "Now, this is more like it!" Zhong Shan''s main body sneered. With a wave of his hand, the remaining shadow clones merged back into his body, disappearingpletely. Zhong Shan knew that the shadow clones were no longer sufficient to trouble Liudao and decided to reim their energy to avoid unnecessary waste. He gripped his broadsword and charged at Liudao again.


    The two ferocious warriors shed once more.


    South of Jinling City


    Hao Meili suddenly stepped onto a flying sword, gliding slowly toward the enemy. Little Golden Dragon perched on her shoulder, remaining small to avoid drawing enemy attacks.


    Hao Meili flew openly, passing numerous Xuanwu warriors. On the ground, the Xuanwu did not stop her, as Xuan Yan had just transmitted an order forbidding any Xuanwu from attacking the approaching woman.


    In the tense, battle-ready atmosphere, the sight of a little girl flying by was extraordinarily jarring.


    Hao Meili flew past the Xuanwu ranks and approached the city walls of Jinling.


    "Who goes there?" Du Xiu, the general on the city wall, suddenly shouted.


    Hao Meili nced at him dismissively and ignored him, focusing instead on the ck-Robed Empress.


    "Scoundrel! Men, shoot her down!" Du Xiu yelled angrily.


    Seeing her flying on a sword, he could tell she wasn''t even at the Nascent Soul stage. Although he didn''t understand why the enemy would send her to her death, she ignored him even as she approached. Naturally, he decided to eliminate her.


    "Hmph! Shouting so loudly, you might choke on your own words," Hao Meili sneered arrogantly at Du Xiu.


    "What are you waiting for? Shoot her..." Du Xiu ordered the soldiers on the wall.


    Before he could finish, Du Xiu suddenly coughed violently, clutching his throat as if something were stuck. His face turned beet red, then a ghastly blue, and he copsed, spitting foam and struggling to breathe.


    A nearby guard quickly rushed to his aid.


    "Twang, twang..."


    A series of sounds followed. The soldiers, who had been aiming Break-Barrier Arrows at Hao Meili, suddenly had their bowstrings snap. The broken bows recoiled, striking the soldiers in the face, leaving many of them bloodied and disfigured.


    "General Du is dead!" one of Du Xiu''s guards cried out in terror.


    Something eerie was at work!


    Xuan Yan watched Hao Meili and the little golden dragon on her shoulder, his brows furrowing deeply.


    "Who else wants to kill me?" Hao Meili smirked disdainfully at the soldiers.


    "Empress of Liudao, aren''t you skilled in curse spells? Why don''t you try cursing me?" Hao Meili turned to the ck-Robed Empress.


    Prince Qiye, who was standing nearby, was about to speak when the Empress raised her hand to stop him.


    "Quite an impressive curse spell you have there, girl. But you''re too young." The Empress said calmly.


    "Why don''t you give it a try and see who''s stronger, you or me? Hmph! If you don''t act soon, I''ll curse the prince behind you and all the high officials around here. I''ll make sure your Yin Moon Empire is left with nothing." Hao Meili shouted.


    Hao Meili''s goal was to provoke the Empress. Zhong Shan had given clear instructions earlier. As long as she saved Yinn, she could negotiate terms with him. If Yinn died, there would be no negotiations. She needed to force the Empress into submission.


    "You and I both possess the art of Cursing Speech, and its power is immense. To avoid any unforeseen consequences, let us duel in the city," dered the Empress as she stamped her foot and soared toward the city center.


    The Empress did not understand how Hao Meili wielded the Cursing Speech, as she only possessed a fragmented version of its teachings. Fearing that Hao Meili might indeed unleash chaos upon everyone on the city walls as she had threatened, the Empress aimed to lure her away.


    What did Hao Meili fear? Naturally, she leapt into the air and followed.


    Atop the city wall, the highest authority was held by Crown Prince Qiye.


    "Attack!"manded the Crown Prince.


    A thunderous roar reverberated below.


    Massive Xuanwu turtles, ten of them at the Supreme Realm, began their slow and formidable crawl forward, apanied by many more turtles of lesser strength. As they moved, spikes of earth emerged from the ground with each step, advancing steadily toward the Grand Yan Dynasty''s direction, creating an oppressive and ever-tightening noose. The memory of the horrific carnage wrought by the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation was still fresh in everyone''s minds.


    With Zhongshan gone, who would now give orders?


    Yiyan turned to Bao''er and spoke, "Queen Gan, His Majesty once told me something I have never forgotten. He said, ''Bao''er is my wife; in my absence, she may decide on everything in my stead.'' Now that His Majesty is not here, I ask Queen Gan to takemand of the army."


    "Please, Queen Gan, lead us," Lin Xiao quickly echoed. Lin Xiao had known Bao''er for a long time and was well aware of her deep bond with Zhongshan. With Bao''er inmand, no one would dare to dissent.


    "Please, Queen Gan, takemand," the entire contingent of the Grand Yan Dynasty on the bronze battle ind implored in unison.


    Bao''er nced at them all, took a deep breath, and dered, "Very well, I shall assume my husband''s authority for the time being."


    With that, she entrusted the care of Yinn to a few nearby maidservants.


    Despite her usually gentle and indecisive demeanor, Bao''er was anything but weak-willed when Zhongshan was absent. Those who thought Bao''er''s nature was kind and easy to exploit were gravely mistaken. In the past, after her master''s death, Bao''er had ordered the burning of his remains in a high-quality giant cauldron and then had itpletely destroyed because it had consumed her master''s body.


    Casting a nce at Yinn, Bao''er turned her gaze toward the direction of Jinling City. Her eyes suddenly grew cold, no, they grew as cold as ice.


    "Lin Xiao, heed mymand!" Bao''er ordered in a chilling tone.


    "At your service!" Lin Xiao responded promptly.


    "Within fifty breaths, merge the Second and Third Corps with your First Corps into a single unit," Bao''ermanded.


    "Yes, ma''am!" Lin Xiao replied without hesitation.


    Yiyan also responded promptly by her side.


    "Yinn is His Majesty''s treasure. I saw a Xuanwu turtle attempting to impale her with earth spikes just now. Gather all the archers. I want the ten Xuanwu turtles killed one by one. ughter them!" Bao''ermanded with ruthless determination.

 Chapter 383: Facing the Emperor Realm

    <h4>Chapter 383: Facing the Emperor Realm</h4>


    "Yinn is His Majesty''s lifeblood. I saw a Xuanwu attempting to assassinate her with ground spikes. Gather all the archers. Ten Emperor Realm Xuanwu, one by one, I want them dead!" Bao''ermanded with a cold and resolute voice.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao responded immediately. He then flew down from the Bronze War Ind to organize the army while Yi Yan issued timely orders.


    "Blood Iron, Yao Yu, Yao Chen, Yao Lu, you assist from the side!" Bao''er swiftly directed four other Emperor Realm experts.


    These four��Blood Iron was an Emperor Realm expert, while Yao Yu, Yao Chen, and Yao Lu were elders of the Tai Dan Sect, obeying their Sect Master, Bao''er. They had all attained the Emperor Realm thanks to the Tianyuan Divine Pill they received in the past.


    "Yes!" The four responded promptly.


    "Sister, intervene when necessary. There''s no need to engage in fiercebat; prioritize your safety," Bao''er advised Qian You, who was standing beside her.


    Gu Qianyou, an Emperor Realm cultivator, nodded solemnly. "Understood!"


    "Xianxian, you manage all the wolf nsmen below and guard against the Xuanwu." Bao''er turned to Xianxian and instructed.


    Xianxian nodded quickly and then turned to bark orders at a group of wolf soldiers behind her.


    "Young Master, the Suprememanded us earlier not to interfere in the imperial promotion battle for your sake. We are powerless, and if we act, Xuanyan will act too," one of the wolf generals shook his head and said.


    "Humph!" Xianxian red at the wolf generals angrily.


    "I will handle one of the Xuanwu generals," a wolf general named Qingyun stepped forward and dered.


    The others nced at Qingyun but said nothing, for Qingyun was not acting because of Xianxian.


    The Xuanwu formation advanced step by step, their slow march bringing forth numerous ground spikes.


    Meanwhile, under Yi Yan''s guidance, Lin Xiao had already assembled all the troops, totaling 4.92 million.


    In a sh, he separated two million archers from the rest, half of whom belonged to the Great Yan Dynasty. Due to the dynasty''s immense wealth, every soldier was equipped with Breaking Steel Arrows. The other million archers came from the Three Great Dynasties.


    At Lin Xiao''smand, the archers swiftly dispersed, mostly led by wolf riders to various scattered locations.


    The Xuanwu generals continued their majestic, unstoppable advance, summoning countless ground spikes.


    In no time, Lin Xiao hadpleted the army''s organization. He flew to a mountain peak, apanied by a group of personal guards.


    "Center target, number one," Lin Xiao ordered.


    A personal guard behind him swiftly waved a g. Everyone immediately understood which Xuanwu to target.


    "Fire!"


    At Lin Xiao''smand, the g in the soldier''s hand dropped.


    With a thunderous roar, two million Breaking Steel Arrows wereunched almost simultaneously.


    Though the soldiers were of lower skill, and their arrows would barely scratch the Xuanwu generals'' skin, even without a protective barrier, a single arrow might feel like a tickle, but what about a hundred? A hundred could cause some pain. What about ten thousand? Ten thousand would force them to raise a shield. And what about a million? Two million Breaking Steel Arrows, all aimed at a single Xuanwu general. Even if fifty thousand missed, there would still be one and a half million.


    The ground spikes were numerous, but could they outnumber the Breaking Steel Arrows?


    Two million Breaking Steel Arrows rained down like a torrential storm, converging on the central Xuanwu general with overwhelming force.


    "Bang~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" The overwhelming barrage of Breaking Steel Arrows shattered every ground spike in its path. Over a million arrows fiercely mmed into the protective barrier of the Xuanwu general.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Despite the Xuanwu''s formidable defense, the shield absorbed most of the arrows'' impact before shattering under the relentless assault.


    "Crash~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" The Xuanwu general''s body was riddled with arrows, yet it did not fall. Even though its eyes were pierced, and its body resembled a porcupine bristling with arrows, it remained standing, blind but alive.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" The Xuanwu general howled in agony, its cries echoing through the battlefield.


    "Fire~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Lin Xiao shouted anothermand.


    Two million more Breaking Steel Arrows followed the previous trajectory, converging once again on the stricken Xuanwu general.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" The second volley of arrows struck with merciless precision, reducing the massive Xuanwu general to shattered pieces under the devastating force of the two million arrows.


    An Emperor Realm expert? This was the so-called might of the Emperor Realm?


    The army''s morale surged instantly. The archers, emboldened, nocked their arrows again, aiming at the second Xuanwu general indicated by Lin Xiao.


    "Bang~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" The remaining nine Xuanwu generals leaped into the sky, some transforming into human form, their faces twisted with rage. One of theirrades had fallen.


    In the sky, a colossal Xuanwu opened its mouth wide and unleashed a massive yellow energy sphere toward the densest cluster of archers from the Great Yan Dynasty.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" The massive energy sphere smashed into the ground, annihting everything in its path. The troops had no time to escape, and in an instant, thousands were obliterated, leaving a gigantic crater in the earth, which trembled from the impact.


    The Xuanwu generals were furious. But what of it? Lin Xiao had already dispersed the troops beforehand, limiting the casualties to about twenty thousand.


    With anothermand, a torrent of Breaking Steel Arrows was aimed at the Xuanwu in the sky.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Just like before, nearly two million arrows bombarded the Xuanwu, piercing its body and blinding its eyes. In the next wave of arrows, the Xuanwu exploded into fragments.


    Two Xuanwu generals, destroyed in mere moments.


    Enraged beyond measure, six Xuanwu generals transformed into human form and charged at the Bronze War Ind, determined to destroy it.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Blood Iron, Yao Chen, Yao Yu, Yao Lu, Gu Qianyou, and Qingyun flew out from the Bronze War Ind, ready to confront the six attacking Xuanwu generals with all their might.


    Of the remaining two Xuanwu generals, one was under a ferocious assault from the wolf n. Though not as regimented as the army, the wolf n''s thousands of members had many at the Fusion Stage of cultivation. Theirbined attack, with thousands of energy spheres spat from their mouths, was overwhelmingly powerful.


    Thest Xuanwu general, however, targeted the peak of the mountain where Lin Xiao stood. It knew that he was the primary culprit behind the deaths of its two brothers.


    "Fire~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Lin Xiaomanded once more.


    A million Breaking Steel Arrows hurtled toward the final Xuanwu general. Though the Xuanwu''s defense was formidable, its speedgged behind that of other Emperor Realm cultivators. Nevertheless, this Xuanwu general did not foolishly stand its ground like its predecessors.


    Dodging rapidly, the Xuanwu general avoided the bulk of the arrows, allowing only a few to crash against its protective barrier. With a fierce expression, it unleashed a massive palm strike toward Lin Xiao.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" A colossal hand materialized in the air and mmed down, shattering the mountain peak into pieces. Lin Xiao barely escaped with his life, but the personal guards behind him were not so fortunate and were crushed instantly.


    With the death of his guards, organizing another million-arrow volley became impossible.


    Lin Xiao, now disheveled, fled to a nearby valley. The Xuanwu generalnded with a vicious gleam in its eyes, observing Lin Xiao as if he had nowhere to escape.


    "I won''t let you die so easily," the Xuanwu general hissed coldly.


    "Ssshhhh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" A sharp, crisp sound pierced the air. The Xuanwu general''s body jerked as it nearly fell, blood gushing from a wound on its thigh. A purple sword had sliced through its right leg, severing it in two.


    Someone had managed to sneak up on the Xuanwu general unnoticed? It swung its hand backward, but the shadowy figure had already vanished like a specter. It was the Dark Emperor. Knowing that the Xuanwu''s back was protected by an imprable shell, and that attacking the head would alert the general, the Dark Emperor had instead severed one of its legs.


    The attack seeded, and the Dark Emperor retreated swiftly, allowing Lin Xiao to seize the opportunity to escape as well.


    The Xuanwu general, now crippled and severely weakened, was left vulnerable. With an army outside to exploit and the Dark Emperor ready to strike from the shadows, could Lin Xiao possibly fail to escape?


    On the Bronze War Ind, Yi Yan shifted his focus from the chaotic battlefield to protecting Bao''er. In the sky, twelve Emperor Realm experts faced off, some already locked inbat, others merely keeping each other in check.


    In Jinling City, on the city wall:


    "Xiaowu, several Xuanwu generals from your n have already perished. If you return without aplishing anything, their deaths will have been in vain," the Crown Prince urged the Xuanwu Young Lord at his side.


    "Your father also hopes you can assist him. We are up against the mightiest dynasty in history, and only you can turn the tide."


    After much persuasion, the Xuanwu Young Lord finally seemed convinced and turned to Xuan Yan, who stood nearby, barking out orders.


    Xuan Yan frowned, reluctant to intervene in the war, but the Young Lord''s attitude put him in a difficult position. He shot a sharp look at Qiye.


    "I''ll help you kill one person. Once the deed is done, Xiaowu wille back with me," Xuan Yan said coldly.


    The Xuanwu Young Lord, resigned, nodded in agreement.


    "Thank you, Senior. The target is themander of the opposing forces, the woman in red on the floating ind. Kill her, and the Great Yan Dynasty will surely retreat," the Crown Prince Qiye said, pointing at Bao''er in the distance.


    "Her?" Xuan Yan looked at Bao''er with a frown.


    A cultivator at the Fusion Stage? He, a mighty Emperor Realm expert, was being asked to assassinate a mere Fusion Stage woman? Yet, with all the Emperor Realm fighters entangled in battle and the battlefield in utter chaos, he was the only one who could do it.


    Though reluctant, Xuan Yan nodded. After all, the Xuanwu n had only this precious Young Lord.


    Stepping forward, Xuan Yan slowly rose into the air. He did not move quickly, but drifted steadily toward the distant Bronze War Ind. As he approached, the Xuanwu generals ceased their fighting in surprise, but quickly fell in behind Xuan Yan, following him inch by inch toward the ind.


    Qian You and the others returned to Bao''er''s side, their eyes filled with concern. Bao''er, however, remained cold andposed, showing no sign of panic.


    (Continued in the next chapter)

 Chapter 384: The Limitless Power of the Immortal

    <h4>Chapter 384: The Limitless Power of the Immortal</h4>


    The chaotic battlefield fell into an eerie silence with the arrival of Xuan Yan. All the Xuanwu generals, including the one nursing a severed leg, gathered behind him, their expressions filled with resentment. The presence of an Emperor Realm expert like Xuan Yan made the skirmish for dominance seem insignificant, raising questions as to why he would intervene. Was it all for Xiaowu?


    Yao Yu, Yao Chen, Yao Lu, Yi Yan, and Qian You positioned themselves behind Bao''er, their postures tense and ready for confrontation. However, despite their readiness, they were well aware that theirbined strength paled inparison to the absolute power of an Emperor Realm cultivator like Xuan Yan. Even a million Breaking Steel Arrows would be powerless against him.


    "Xuan Yan, what do you intend to do?" Princess Qian You was the first to speak up, her voice sharp with usation.


    "I have been requested by the Crown Prince of the Yin Yue Dynasty to eliminate a certain individual," Xuan Yan replied nonchntly.


    "You mean to kill me?" Bao''er asked coldly.


    "Indeed," Xuan Yan confirmed.


    "How dare you..." Princess Qian You''s eyes widened in anger.


    Not just Qian You, but everyone red at Xuan Yan with eyes full of fury and defiance.


    "Buzz~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Xuan Yan''s aura suddenly surged, and the oppressive force it exerted immediately immobilized everyone on the Bronze War Ind. The sheer pressure from an Emperor Realm cultivator''s aura alone was enough to lock everyone in ce, rendering them unable to move or even speak. Their legs trembled as if they were about to copse under the immense weight, and they struggled in vain against the crushing force.


    This was the power of the Emperor Realm. In the face of such overwhelming might, a grand war could be reduced to a child''s y. An Emperor Realm cultivator was akin to a deity, one beyond the reach of mere mortals. With a mere flick of Xuan Yan''s hand, he could annihte the Bronze War Ind or wipe out the armies below.


    Even Little Wolf Xianxian was immobilized, her eyes burning with hatred as she red at Xuan Yan, as though she wished to tear him apart. Xuan Yan nced at her briefly, frowning, but then looked away, unconcerned.


    Despite the oppressive aura that paralyzed everyone, two individuals remained partially unaffected. One was Mr. Shi, who, though unable to move, could still blink his eyes slightly, yet did nothing. The other was Gan Bao''er, Empress of the Great Yan Dynasty.


    "You only wish to kill me?" Gan Bao''er asked.


    "Yes, for someone of your insignificant Fusion Stage cultivation to warrant my personal attention, you should consider yourself honored," Xuan Yan said, extending his hand slowly.


    Everyone watched with mounting anxiety, yet they were powerless to move. Their minds were frantic with worry, especially Qian You, who was on the verge of tears. If Bao''er were to die, how would they ever face Zhong Shan?


    Desperate to break free from the invisible restraints, they found the power of an Emperor Realm cultivator''s aura unassable.


    "Xuan Yan~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" A sudden shout echoed from the distant city wall. Xuan Yan''s expression shifted as he turned to see the Crown Prince Qiye lying in a pool of blood, a sword piercing his chest. A man dressed in ck robes held the Xuanwu Young Lord, a fine sword pressed against his throat.


    The battlefield, which had been a frenzy of chaos moments ago, suddenly fell silent with the arrival of Xuan Yan. The remaining Xuanwu generals quickly gathered behind him, including the one nursing a severed leg, who clutched his injury with a face twisted in anger. The battlefield, once a frenzied skirmish, now seemed trivial in the presence of an Emperor Realm cultivator like Xuan Yan. Could he have been moved by the plight of Xiaowu?


    Yao Yu, Yao Chen, Yao Lu, Yi Yan, and Qian You immediately positioned themselves protectively behind Bao''er, their stances rigid and ready forbat. However, the stark reality was that even with their best efforts, they were no match for the overwhelming power of Xuan Yan. A mere million Breaking Steel Arrows would not even scratch him��such was the might of an Emperor Realm cultivator.


    "Xuan Yan, what is your intent?" Princess Qian You''s voice rang out, her tone sharp and filled with usation.


    "I have been tasked by the Crown Prince of the Yin Yue Dynasty to kill someone," Xuan Yan replied, his tone indifferent.


    "Are you here to kill me?" Bao''er asked, her voice cold and steady.


    "Indeed," Xuan Yan confirmed.


    "How dare you...!" Princess Qian You''s eyes widened with fury, her face flushed with anger.


    Everyone present red at Xuan Yan with eyes full of defiance, their faces etched with resolve.


    "Buzz~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" With a sudden surge of power, Xuan Yan''s aura expanded, exerting an oppressive force that instantly immobilized everyone on the Bronze War Ind. The sheer pressure from his aura alone was enough to lock everyone in ce, rendering them unable to move or even speak. Their legs trembled, as though ready to buckle under the immense weight, and they struggled in vain against the crushing force.


    This was the unparalleled power of the Emperor Realm. In the face of such overwhelming might, even the grandest of wars seemed like a trivial skirmish. An Emperor Realm cultivator was like a god, untouchable by mere mortals. With a mere flick of his wrist, Xuan Yan could obliterate the Bronze War Ind or annihte the armies below.


    Little Wolf Xianxian, unable to move, could only stare at Xuan Yan with eyes full of hatred, as though she wished to tear him apart. Xuan Yan nced at her, frowned, and then dismissed her with a look of indifference.


    Despite the oppressive aura that paralyzed everyone, two individuals remained partially unaffected. One was Mr. Shi, who, though unable to move, could still blink his eyes slightly but did nothing. The other was Gan Bao''er, Empress of the Great Yan Dynasty.


    "You only wish to kill me?" Gan Bao''er asked, her voice steady.


    "Yes, for someone of your insignificant Fusion Stage cultivation to warrant my personal attention, you should consider yourself honored," Xuan Yan said, extending his hand toward her.


    Everyone watched in helpless anxiety, unable to move. Their hearts raced with fear, especially Qian You, who was on the verge of tears. If Bao''er were to die, how could they ever face Zhong Shan?


    Desperate to break free from the invisible restraints, they found that the power of an Emperor Realm cultivator''s aura was insurmountable.


    "Xuan Yan~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" A sudden shout echoed from the distant city wall. Xuan Yan''s expression shifted as he turned to see the Crown Prince Qiye lying in a pool of blood, a sword piercing his chest. A man dressed in ck robes held the Xuanwu Young Lord, a fine sword pressed against his throat.


    The Dark Emperor couldn''t save the Empress; he had no choice but to divert the attack and save her indirectly.


    "Young Master!" The Xuanwu warriors were thrown into a state of panic.


    "Hmph������������������������������������������������" Xuan Yan let out a cold snort.


    The Dark Emperor, with a muffled grunt, was sent flying backward. Merely a nce from Xuan Yan had defeated him.


    The power of an Imperial Peak cultivator was overwhelming!


    Several Xuanwu warriors swiftly rushed over, grasping their Young Master with expressions filled with terror.


    Xuan Yan turned his gaze back to Bao''er and said, "Even though the Crown Prince is dead, I have never gone back on my word."


    With that, he raised his hand and struck towards Bao''er.


    No one could save Bao''er now. On Heavenly Wolf Ind, only Di Xuan Sha had the power to rescue her. But would he intervene for a woman he didn''t know? Clearly, he would not.


    Facing Xuan Yan''s strike, everyone felt a surge of desperation, screaming inwardly. But before absolute power, everything seemed futile.


    Gan Bao''er red at Xuan Yan with hatred. Death? The one thing Bao''er couldn''t bear to part with was Zhong Shan. Now, she was facing her end. She wondered how the lord would feel when he found out, but one thing was certain: Xuan Yan was doomed.


    Did it really take all his strength to deal with someone at the Combined Body stage? With a hint of disdain, Xuan Yan''s fierce palm strike came crashing down. As it swept through, the surrounding space seemed to copse, filled with boundless destructive power.


    But just as the force of the strike was about to reach Bao''er, a mere ten feet away, Xuan Yan''s eyes suddenly widened with fear.


    "Seeking death������������������������������������������������������������"


    "Boom������������������������������������������������������������"


    A thunderous voice, like the wrath of the heavens, exploded across the sky. Apanied by a sudden storm of lightning, it left everyone on the battlefield momentarily deafened, a ringing echoing in their ears.


    While the Imperial Peak realm rendered movement impossible, this authoritative roar seemed to shatter the heavens and earth, as if capable of breaking the world with a single shout.


    It was like the descent of doomsday, instilling fear in the hearts of all.


    An immense, boundless aura erupted from Bao''er. Faced with this aura, everyone felt a sense of helplessness, a resignation to their fate.


    Xuan Yan''s strike was halted. Before Bao''er, the space suddenly rippled, like a stone dropped into water, creating waves. From the center of these ripples, a delicate, jade-white hand emerged.


    The hand appeared frail and powerless, but Xuan Yan, in sheer terror, quickly transformed into his gigantic Xuanwu form.


    A massive Xuanwu, over a hundred meters long, projected its strongest defense, trying to withstand this mysterious hand.


    How powerful was the force behind this hand? Xuan Yan could no longer fathom it. To deliver a strike that could transcend space��such a feat, even the Supreme of the Xuanwu n couldn''t achieve so easily.


    His protective shield? The Imperial Peak realm''s shield was like a mere soap bubble before this wless jade hand, breaking instantly with a touch. The palm came crashing down on Xuan Yan''s enormous shell.


    The Xuanwu n''s greatest strengthy in their defense, particrly their shells. Among their peers, no one could match their defensive prowess��not even the Dragon n''s bodily defenses couldpare.


    But Xuan Yan still feared this sudden palm strike and quickly deployed a crystal shield to block it. This was a ninth-grade treasure, an unexpected acquisition and the strongest defensive artifact he possessed.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������"


    The sudden hand struck the crystal shield, and with a thunderous crash, the hand and shield separated. The shield, now imprinted with a hand mark, was sent flying out of Xuan Yan''s control, crashing into his tortoise shell.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    Another thunderous crash resounded as the crystal shield''s residual force was absorbed by the tortoise shell. Xuan Yan was sted backward by the force of the blow, and in mid-air, his immense and seemingly imprable tortoise shell suddenly fractured, breaking into countless tiny fragments that clung to his body.


    "Puh������������������������������������������������!" Xuan Yan spat out a mouthful of blood in mid-air, consumed by boundless terror.


    "Rumble����������������������������������������������������!"


    In an instant, the sky above Heavenly Wolf Ind was shrouded in a vast expanse of thunderclouds. A multitude of lightning bolts swirled ominously, as if ready to strike at any moment, suggesting that the hand before Bao''er was an anomaly, something that the heavens themselves sought to repel.


    "Hmph������������������������������������������������!" Another cold snort resonated.


    The countless bolts of lightning directly above Bao''er were dispersed by this cold snort, and the thickest part of the dark clouds was obliterated. Elsewhere, lightning storms descended in a frenzy, striking all around Heavenly Wolf Ind with unrelenting force.


    Finally, the hand reluctantly withdrew from the ripples in space.


    "Retreat������������������������������������������������!" shouted Xuan Yan, his shell shattered and his body gravely injured. Fight? Not when even his Imperial Peak cultivation couldn''t withstand that one palm strike! It was pointless!


    The Xuanwu warriors swiftly carried Xuan Yan and the Xuanwu Young Master, shooting away at their fastest speed.


    Everyone stood in stunned silence. What had just happened? A hand? A single hand that shattered the tortoise shell of an Imperial Peak Xuanwu? Both Yi Yan and Princess Qianyou looked on with furrowed brows, full of astonishment. Even Mr. Shi, standing nearby, squinted his eyes, his expressionplex and inscrutable.


    Regardless of what had transpired, it was clear that someone had saved Empress Gan.


    Who was it? How could someone possess such overwhelming power? Only Bao''er knew, because as that hand emerged, she had seen the small ck mole on one of its fingers, identical to the one on her own finger.


    The immortal her master had once mentioned? The one who looked exactly like her?


    The spatial ripples before her gradually dissipated. Everyone regained their ability to move, but when they looked at Bao''er, their eyes were filled with awe and curiosity.


    "Lin Xiao!" Bao''er was the first to regain herposure and called out.


    "Present!" Lin Xiao immediately responded.


    "Mobilize the troops to capture Jinling City. Exterminate all members of the Yin Moon Dynasty''s royal family. Any who dare to resist will face the annihtion of their entire ns!" Bao''er issued hermand with ruthless determination.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao responded at once.


    At that moment, near the battlefield, a mysterious figure appeared as if out of thin air. It was the Supreme of the Wolf n, Di Xuan Sha.


    Standing atop a mountain peak, Di Xuan Sha surveyed the surroundings with a frown, ncing towards the distant bronze warship. He knew he had likely missed something significant.

 Chapter 385: The Madman Zhong Shan

    <h4>Chapter 385: The Madman Zhong Shan</h4>


    Di Xuan Sha furrowed his brows into a frown. Just moments ago, he was sitting in his pce when suddenly, a powerful aura erupted from afar. This aura was not only equal to his own, but its sheer presence also summoned a storm of thunderclouds.


    Who? Who could havee to Heavenly Wolf Ind?


    Thunderclouds nketed the entire ind, indicating that the intruder had taken action. Yet, when he arrived, the powerful individual had already vanished. What was going on?


    "Qing Yun,e here!" Di Xuan Shamanded softly.


    Standing on a bronze warship in the distance, Qing Yun looked down at the swiftly advancing army, his pupils contracting as he surveyed the surroundings. Without another word, he turned and quickly departed. The others remained filled with bewilderment.


    To the west of Jinling City, Zhong Shan and Liudao were locked in a fierce battle, their relentless attacks reducing every stone mountain and pir in the rock forest to rubble.


    Liudao, having amplified his power through secret techniques, was ferocious. Now, he was no longer at a disadvantage against Zhong Shan and even seemed to have the upper hand.


    With each powerful sh, the stones around them were shattered and sent flying by the reverberations of their strikes, only to be further pulverized by the aftershocks.


    Both men''s upper garments were in tatters; if not for Zhong Shan''s ss heart-protecting armor, he would likely have been gravely injured by now.


    Zhong Shan couldn''t ovee Liudao, and Liudao couldn''t defeat Zhong Shan quickly either. Their weapons had long been knocked away, and they resorted to pummeling each other with fists charged with violent energy.


    Zhong Shan knew he couldn''t afford to drag this out any longer. The berserk pill''s effects and the duration of the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Art would bothst for just one hour. A flicker of urgency crossed Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    At that moment, the sky suddenly darkened, filling with roiling clouds. Countless thunderclouds gathered in a frenzy, covering the sky as if heralding the end of the world.


    Seeing this, a gleam of hope lit up in Zhong Shan''s heart.


    Ignoring the searing pain from Liudao''s heavy blow to his chest, Zhong Shan grabbed Liudao''s arm and, with a swift movement, hurled him upwards towards the sky.


    Liudao, barely regaining his bnce in mid-air, looked down just in time to see Zhong Shan charging upwards like a battering ram, crashing into him and driving him into the cloud cover.


    Thunderbolt Body Art! Ten Thousand Lightning Strikes!


    Zhong Shan''s body suddenly generated a maic field, turning him into a living lightning rod, drawing the thunderclouds'' immense electrical power towards him. The sky lit up as endless bolts of lightning surged towards Zhong Shan.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    A deluge of lightning rained down upon Zhong Shan, who clung tightly to Liudao.


    In this instant, Liudao''s initial ferocity turned into abject terror. The madman, Zhong Shan, was truly insane.


    "You madman��������������������������������������!"


    With a cry of rm from Liudao, the two were enveloped in a storm of lightning, their forms disappearing within a massive, glowing sphere of electrical energy that shone like a sun in the sky.


    Madman, Zhong Shan was indeed a madman. At the Nascent Soul stage, even though he had practiced the Thunderbolt Body Art, no one had ever dared to challenge heavenly lightning with their body. Yet, Zhong Shan did, relentlessly absorbing the endless lightning to temper his own body.


    "Ah��������������������������������������������������!"


    The thunderous sphere resonated with the screams of both Zhong Shan and Liudao as they were consumed by the chaotic storm of lightning.


    Liudao was overwhelmed by fear and pain. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan''s voice, though filled with agony, also carried a hint of exhration through gritted teeth.


    "Rumble������������������������������������������������!"


    The thunder fireball zed furiously for almost the duration of an incense stick, before plummeting from the sky.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������!"


    Upon impact, the ground was scorched, forming a ckened crater. A series of crackling sounds followed, signaling the end of the lightning within the hole.


    Inside the crater, two charred figuresy grievously injured by the heavenly thunderfire.


    Zhong Shan struggled to his feet, and immediately, a surge of golden fortune rushed from all directions toward his body. This wasn''t the fortune of the Great Zheng Dynasty; it was the fortune of the Yin Moon Dynasty, converging on Zhong Shan, signifying his total victory.


    With wisps of smoke rising from his mouth, Zhong Shan grinned with excitement. The tempering by heavenly lightning had unexpectedly propelled his Thunderbolt Body Art to the second stage, Nascent Soul stage two!


    As the abundant fortune washed over him, Zhong Shan''s fatigue seemed to dissipate significantly within moments.


    He roseboriously. The effects of the berserk pill had worn off, and the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Art had ended. However, the infusion of fortune had alleviated much of his post-battle injuries.


    Nascent Soul stage two? Looking up at the suddenly vanished thunderclouds, Zhong Shan felt a pang of fear. Though his body had broken through, he was absolutely unwilling to endure the insanity of heavenly lightning tempering again.


    It was terrifying, nearly costing him his life.


    With a wave of his hand, he summoned arge amount of water vapor, condensing it into water to swiftly cleanse his body. His body was intact, though his hair had beenpletely burned off. It didn''t matter; it would grow back soon enough. After washing, he retrieved a fresh set of clothes from his storage bracelet and looked toward Liudao.


    Liudao was on the brink of death. His entire skeleton was shattered, and his primordial spirit was almost dispersed by the heavenly lightning, leaving him with only a sliver of life.


    Gazing at Liudao, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said, "You were a heroic ruler, but unfortunately, you encountered me."


    Indeed, Liudao had done everything well. Had he not met Zhong Shan, he would surely have be a dominant ruler in the future. Even though he had used Bao''er to threaten Zhong Shan, it was simply a matter of differing stances.


    "Pl-please, p-please..." Liudao''s voice was extremely strained.


    Zhong Shan looked at him with a frown. Pleading?


    "Let me see the Grand Empress onest time," Liudao struggled to speak, his eyes barely open.


    The Grand Empress? At the brink of death, he thought not of survival or his dynasty''s dominance, but of a woman.


    Zhong Shan looked at Liudao with a frown. Although Liudao was destined to die, Zhong Shan was willing to fulfill this wish because he was the same kind of person.


    With a wave of his hand, a cloud of white mist supported Liudao as they flew towards Jinling City.


    "Th-thank you," Liudao said with difficulty, on the verge of death.


    When Zhong Shan arrived outside Jinling City with Liudao, he found the area inplete disarray, littered with countless corpses. However, Jinling City had already been taken.


    Soldiers were sweeping through the city, eliminating remnants. Outside, soldiers were collecting the dead.


    The Yin Moon Dynasty had fallen!


    Slightly surprised, Zhong Shan flew into the city, heading straight for the imperial pce, as the bronze warship hovered above the pce grounds.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live, long live!"


    Wherever Zhong Shan went, everyone knelt and bowed in reverence.


    Finally, hended in the pce square.


    "Uncle Grand!" Yinn was the first to spot Zhong Shan, and she excitedly shouted out.


    Seeing Yinn freed from the curse, Zhong Shan exhaled a sigh of relief. The Great Empress''s Curse Word Technique had been broken by Hao Meili.


    "Master," Bao''er stepped forward, her face showing a hint of excitement as she looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, Yinn helped you rescue her," Hao Meili quickly chimed in, eager to take credit.


    "Where is the Great Empress of the Yin Moon Dynasty?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Over there," Hao Meili replied with a puzzled expression.


    Everyone then noticed Liudao at Zhong Shan''s feet, and they were all slightly confused.


    In the distance, the Great Empress, dressed in a ck robe,y there. Zhong Shan walked over and ced the severely injured Liudao beside her.


    "Mingming," Liudao struggled to hold the Great Empress in his arms.


    "Your Majesty!" the Great Empress, Mingming, responded with difficulty, as if she was on the brink of death herself.


    With great effort, Liudao lifted the hood from Mingming''s head. As the hood was removed, the sight of her face left the women present gasping, covering their mouths in shock. Her face was ghastly pale and emaciated, like a dried corpse. Her eyes bulged grotesquely, and she had lost all her eyebrows and teeth. Only a small tuft of long hair remained, making her look incredibly hideous and terrifying. It was no wonder Liudao had avoided her in the past.


    "No, please," Mingming said in pain.


    Liudao, struggling, lifted her hood and gently caressed her ghastly, terrifying face. "You became like this for my sake. Ever since you began practicing the Curse Word Technique for me three hundred years ago, I have never held you or told you that I love you. Am I terrible?"


    "No," Mingming shook her head with difficulty.


    "Having you apany me to the underworld is my greatest fulfillment. Mingming, I love you!" Liudao said deeply. After speaking, Liudao tightly embraced Mingming, bringing his mouth close to hers. As tears streamed down her disfigured face, he kissed her deeply.


    The couple clung to each other in a tight embrace, kissing deeply, their final moments marked by a faint smile. Together, they closed their eyes and died.


    Everyone around felt an overwhelming sense of heaviness. In life, could you also find a partner with whom you could die in love?


    Bao''er and Qianyou moved beside Zhong Shan, holding onto his sleeves, their eyes filled with sorrow. Although they had been enemies, the couple''s love moved them deeply.


    "Give them a proper burial!" Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "Yes!" the guards responded immediately.


    "Let them be buried together, just as they are, embracing each other," Zhong Shan added.


    "Understood!" the guards affirmed without dy.


    At that moment, everyone suddenly bowed to Zhong Shan.


    "Congrattions, Your Majesty. Long live the Emperor!" they all chanted.


    "Long live the Emperor!"


    The chants echoed outward, spreading further and further. In no time, the entire city of Jinling was filled with cries of "Long live Zhong Shan!" With this, Zhong Shan had unified Tiang Ind, destroying the three major dynasties and the Yin Moon Dynasty, and was poised to gather the fortune necessary to elevate the Great Zheng Dynasty to its final stage.


    <i></i>

 Chapter 386: Fengchan to the Emperor of Heaven! The Great Zheng Dynasty!

    <h4>Chapter 386: Fengchan to the Emperor of Heaven! The Great Zheng Dynasty!</h4>


    The Great Zheng Dynasty, Xuankun, the imperial pce, in front of the Changsheng Hall.


    The walls surrounding the pce were all taken down, and on this early morning, the area around the pce was packed with the army of the Great Zheng Dynasty, numbering over five million. The troops stood in strict formation, each standing tall and straight, awaiting the Fengchan Ceremony of the Great Zheng Dynasty.


    In front of the Changsheng Hall, a massive square altar made of five-colored soil was constructed by Wei Taizhong''s order. The altar spanned eighty-one zhang in length, with a giant pit in the center, perfectly circr and forty-nine zhang in diameter.


    Above the pit floated a circr ind of five-colored soil, also forty-nine zhang in diameter. Upon closer inspection, one could see that if this floating ind were to descend, it would perfectly fill the circr pit below.


    This was the Fengchan altar, with the upper part being the "Feng Tian Altar" and the lower part the "Chan Di Altar."


    To the south of the altar stood all the key members of the Great Zheng Dynasty. Even Empress Bao''er and Qianyou were standing quietly at the forefront of the five million troops, patiently waiting.


    The four corpsmanders also stood in the gentle breeze, waiting for the Fengchan Ceremony to begin. Countless wolf n members, led by Xianxian, were standing quietly at one side, without making any noise.


    From a distant mountain peak, Emperor Xuan Sha stood watching quietly.


    On the periphery of the army, Hao Meili also observed in silence.


    Throughout Xuankun, countless civilians were kneeling and praying.


    Inside the Changsheng Hall, Zhong Shan, d in his most luxurious dragon robe, sat on the dragon throne, waiting quietly. Wei Taizhong stood by his side.


    "Your Majesty, it is time." Wei Taizhong respectfully informed.


    "Mm!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    Slowly, Zhong Shan descended from the high dragon throne and walked out of the Changsheng Hall.


    Upon exiting the hall, Zhong Shan stepped onto a cloud, which carried him straight to the Feng Tian Altar above.


    On the circr altar, Zhong Shan nced around and then slowly took out the Fengshen List. He gently ced the Fengshen List on the ground before him and knelt in worship towards the sky. After performing three bows and nine kowtows, Zhong Shan rose, grasped the Fengshen List, and began to chant loudly:


    "The Great Zheng Dynasty worships the heavens, I, Zhong Shan, establish the Great Zheng, with the mandate of heaven as the king, to govern the people, proim peace to heaven, and report the merits of the gods��"


    As Zhong Shan''s powerful voice echoed, the Fengshen List in his hand began to float in mid-air, suddenly emitting a bright golden light. Immediately, a fierce wind seemed to arise, gathering from all directions towards the Feng Tian Altar. The Fengshen List began to draw in boundless energy, umting more and more. Gradually, strands of condensed golden fortune appeared above the Fengshen List. At first, it was just a wisp, but as Zhong Shan waited, the gathered fortune grew increasingly abundant.


    More and more fortune converged.


    Zhong Shan knew that most of this fortune came from the Yin Moon Dynasty, as well as from the expansion of the Great Zheng Dynasty, forming national fortune,nd fortune, and heavenly fortune. Boundless fortune.


    The fortune, condensed into a golden hue, gathered in the sky, growing ever more abundant and majestic.


    Below, all the courtiers were filled with excitement. This was the fortune of the Great Zheng Dynasty! The fortune condensed into color, signifying recognition from heaven and earth, as the world continually permitted the Great Zheng Dynasty to advance to an imperial dynasty.


    Zhong Shan patiently waited as the fortune continued to amass. Within just half an hour, the entire sky above Xuankun was enveloped in an infinite golden fortune. The sheer volume of fortune far exceeded that which had been above Jinling City in the past, much more so!


    Seeing the dense fortune, everyone in the Great Zheng Dynasty was overwhelmed with excitement. From the distant mountain peak, Emperor Xuan Sha kept his gaze fixed on Zhong Shan. He had recognized Zhong Shan''s extraordinary nature from the beginning, and now, watching him, he felt even more mystified. How long had it been?


    Golden fortune was being drawn in by the Fengshen List, gathering over Xuankun. At this moment, from the entrance of the Changsheng Hall, Wei Taizhong suddenly shouted, "Report to heaven upon ascending, remove the earth upon descending~~~~~~".


    As Wei Taizhong finished his promation, the Feng Tian Altar in the sky began to descend slowly, lowering bit by bit until it seamlessly fit into the square pit at the center of the altar below.


    Zhong Shan, holding the Fengshen List which was attracting the boundless fortune, also descended onto the Chan Di Altar.


    After another round of three bows and nine kowtows, Zhong Shan stood up.


    Gripping the Fengshen List, Zhong Shan proimed loudly once more:


    "The Great Zheng Dynasty worships the earth, I, Zhong Shan, establish the Great Zheng Dynasty, receiving the protection of heaven and earth, prospering and flourishing, with heavenly and earthly blessings. epting boundless fortune, the dynasty cannot contain it all, thus I sincerely request heaven and earth to bestow the Great Zheng the position of the heavens and earth, to elevate to an imperial dynasty, Fengchan to the Emperor of Heaven!"


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    As Zhong Shan''s words fell, a tremendous thunderp reverberated through the heavens and earth, resonating deep within everyone''s hearts, instilling a profound sense of awe.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The infinite fortune in the sky suddenly began to swirl, gradually forming a massive vortex, slowly funneling down into the Fengshen List.


    The Fengshen List, being bathed in the boundless fortune, then emitted a golden beam of light which shot into the five-colored earth below Zhong Shan''s feet, seemingly transferring all this fortune into another object.


    Indeed, buried within the five-colored earth was Zhong Shan''s Fang Tian Jade Seal.


    The infinite fortune poured into it, continuously absorbed by the Fang Tian Jade Seal, like a bottomless pit devouring the fortune of heaven and earth.


    Above the Fang Tian Jade Seal, the Nine Dragons Suppressing Treasure, the artifact that brought Zhong Shan to this world, began to emit faint colorful rays amidst the fortune''s cleansing. The jade dragons on the Fang Tian Jade Seal seemed toe alive, twisting and turning, attempting to swallow the red pearl. However, the red pearl, unwilling to be devoured by the jade dragons, red with red light, suppressing the Nine Dragons once again.


    Soon, all the boundless fortune in the sky waspletely absorbed by the Fang Tian Jade Seal.


    Observing the disappearance of the fortune, Emperor Xuan Sha, standing at a distance, narrowed his eyes. While others might not understand the implications, not even Princess Qianyou, Emperor Xuan Sha was fully aware. This was no ordinary advancement of a dynasty. Though the massive fortune already indicated the status of an imperial dynasty, Zhong Shan''s actions went beyond that; he was gathering all the fortune to himself. If Emperor Xuan Sha''s guess was correct, Zhong Shan was incorporating this fortune into his own jade seal.


    Why? Because Zhong Shan aimed to transform the heaven-bestowed fortune into his own personal fortune. The fortune that would be released again would not just belong to heaven and earth, but also to Zhong Shan.


    This was the path to upgrading to a Celestial Dynasty!


    Ordinary empires cannot upgrade to a Celestial Dynasty. Why? Because their fortune, though protecting them, still belongs to heaven and earth. However, a Celestial Dynasty''s fortune is deeply imprinted with the sovereign''s aura.


    Was Zhong Shan''s fortune the same?


    Emperor Xuan Sha''s eyes flickered with surprise.


    Not only Emperor Xuan Sha but also Mr. Shi down below noticed this peculiarity, his pupils slightly contracting.


    As the Fang Tian Jade Seal absorbed all the fortune, after a moment, the boundless fortune burst out from the square altar, shooting up into the sky, passing through Zhong Shan''s body and cleansing him.


    "Boom��������������������������������������"


    The sky was filled with auspicious signs, with an endless surge of golden fortune, rolling and unceasing, even more vibrant than the fortune gathered before. The massive five-colored earth altar, as the fortune shot up to the sky, scattered its glow across the heavens, forming a radiant five-colored light that illuminated the entire Xuanjing. Not just Xuanjing, but the entire Heavenly Wolf Ind was enveloped in boundless auspicious clouds.


    Zhong Shan remained shrouded in the vast fortune, bathed in golden light. He held the Divine Tablet in his left hand and the Heaven-Soothing Seal in his right, closing his eyes as if relishing the cleansing effect of the fortune. This fortune was overwhelmingly vast, far surpassing the amount from the defeat of Six Paths. The fortune of an entire imperial dynasty was washing over Zhong Shan.


    After the time it takes to burn an incense stick, the remaining fortune finally dispersed from Zhong Shan''s body and soared into the sky. Zhong Shan felt an immense sense offort. His cultivation level advanced once again, breaking through to the third level of the Nascent Soul stage due to the infinite cleansing of the fortune.


    Opening his eyes, Zhong Shan gazed at the endless golden fortune that now belonged to him. Excitedly, he shouted, "The Heaven Emperor is established, the Great Ying Dynasty!��������������������������������������"


    "The Great Ying Dynasty! Long live our Emperor, long live, long live!��������������������������������������"


    The five hundred thousand soldiers shouted in unison, their voices echoing and spreading throughout Xuanjing and beyond. Everyone, whether it was Bao''er, Qianyou, Yinn, Lin Xiao, or others, was filled with an overwhelming sense of excitement and trembling. In the distance, Hao Meili watched the countless people shouting with fervor and, for some reason, felt a twinge of envy.


    On a distant peak, Emperor Xuanxia, watching Zhong Shan, took a deep breath and then showed a smile of anticipation. His figure flickered and disappeared.


    Finally, the Great Ying Dynasty had ascended, the Heaven Emperor was established, and the conferral ceremony hade to an end.


    Ten Days Later, in Zhong Shan''s Study


    Zhong Shan sat at his desk with the two empresses standing beside him. Wei Taizhong stood to one side, while Lin Xiao, Yinn, Yi Yan, Mr. Corpse, and Lu Jianping stood in front of the desk.


    "Lu Jianping!" Zhong Shan called.


    "Present!" Lu Jianping responded.


    "You were tasked with designing the strongest celestial city for the Great Ying Dynasty. How is the preparation going?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Your Majesty, I have the design ready. It''s derived from the ''Ten Thousand Cities Compendium''. Although parts of it have been removed by my master, I am the only one who knows the entire n. It is the ''First City of Heaven and Earth''. However, it requires an enormous amount of time,bor, materials, and effort to build. Just gathering the materials alone is extremely challenging." Lu Jianping exined.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan''s eyes brightened, and everyone else showed signs of surprise.


    Seeing everyone''s attention on him, Lu Jianping took a deep breath and, with a hint of excitement, said, "Your Majesty, have you ever considered building such a grand city, not on the ground, but suspended among the clouds, above the nine heavens, to receive homage from all the cities in the world, transcending all things, the Celestial City of the Sky?"

 Chapter 387: Constructing the Palace of the High Heavens

    <h4>Chapter 387: Constructing the Pce of the High Heavens</h4>


    "Your Majesty, have you ever imagined a grand city, not built upon the earth, but suspended amidst the clouds, high above the nine heavens, revered by all the cities of the world, a city that towers above all creation, the Celestial City of the High Heavens?" Lu Jianping spoke with a hint of excitement.


    Lu Jianping could barely contain his excitement. Floating inds were the only structures that hovered in the sky, but they were limited in height and size. A celestial city, soaring above the nine heavens, would be the greatest city in existence. If he could build such a city, no other city in the world couldpare.


    "The Pce of the High Heavens?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    "Ah? Yes, the mightiest pce that towers above the nine heavens," Lu Jianping quickly rified.


    The others in the study also stared at Lu Jianping, their eyes filled with awe and admiration.


    "Bang!" Zhong Shan pped the table with enthusiasm.


    "Build it����������������������������������" Zhong Shan eximed with excitement.


    "Yes!" Lu Jianping responded, equally thrilled.


    "But, Your Majesty, the materials for such a project..." Lu Jianping''s eyebrows furrowed in concern.


    "Build it, no matter the cost. Need materials? Have the Crown Prince transport them from the Divine Land of Shenzhou!" Zhong Shan dered with unwavering certainty.


    "Yes! However, it might be difficult to find such materials even in the Divine Land. To start the construction, we might need to wait a while," Lu Jianping shook his head.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at Lu Jianping intently.


    "To build the Celestial City of the High Heavens, which would be higher than the sun, moon, and stars, we need materials from the heavens themselves. At the very least, we need meteorites from the sky," Lu Jianping exined thoughtfully.


    "Meteorites?" Zhong Shan smiled, slightly surprised.


    As it happened, Zhong Shan had recently acquired some meteorites. They had fallen from the sky as a curse upon the Great Yu Empire by Hao Meili, which resulted in the death of Wu An, and Zhong Shan had collected them.


    "No need to wait. I happen to have some meteorites right now. I''ll give them to you immediately, and you can start nning the construction. As for the additional meteorites, have the Crown Prince gather them from the Divine Land," Zhong Shan said with a smile, extending his arm.


    "Ah? Yes!" Lu Jianping stepped forward excitedly, aligning his storage bracelet with Zhong Shan''s.


    With a slight transfer, the meteorites moved into Lu Jianping''s storage bracelet.


    "Your Majesty, so many?" Lu Jianping was overjoyed as he examined his storage bracelet.


    "Go ahead!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Lu Jianping promptly exited the room.


    After Lu Jianping left, Yi Yan suddenly spoke up, "Your Majesty!"


    "Hmm?" Zhong Shan looked at Yi Yan with a puzzled expression.


    "Your Majesty, I''ve noticed something very peculiar," Yi Yan said, furrowing his brows.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan turned his attention to Yi Yan.


    "Logically, as the Great Zheng Dynasty has just been established, we shouldn''t be experiencing such a strong flow of fate energy. I feel that I''m just a step away from reaching a position of transcendence, and my cultivation speed has more than doubled. When I was at another empire beforeing to the Great Yu Empire, I held a simr position, but the fate energy was nowhere near as abundant. Why is that?" Yi Yan asked with a furrowed brow.


    Princess Qianyou and Mr. Shi also looked at Zhong Shan, as they had noticed the uniqueness of the Great Zheng Dynasty as well.


    How could Zhong Shan not be aware? After the dynasty''s promotion, his own cultivation speed had increased even more dramatically than others. The fate energy of the dynasty bestowed upon the emperor a threefold cultivation speed, but Zhong Shan''s speed had increased to fivefold. With the additional fate energy from the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, his normal cultivation speed had now reached thirteen times the usual rate.


    Zhong Shan had been studying this phenomenon for days. Even the "Heavenly Court Forging Manual" did not record anything simr. He could only attribute it to the mysterious red sphere atop the Fang Tian Imperial Seal, the same red sphere that had brought him to this world.


    "Isn''t this better?" Zhong Shan smiled, deflecting the question.


    "Yes!" Yi Yan nodded, deciding not to press further.


    "In ten days, I will depart for the Divine Land of Shenzhou," Zhong Shan announced.


    At Zhong Shan''s words, everyone looked at him strangely. After all, epting Zhong Shan''s dual existence was incredibly difficult, yet unavoidable.


    "Uncle, I''ll apany you!" Ying Lan immediately eximed.


    "No, I have another self here. Ying Lan, from now on, you''ll be in charge of integrating those smaller cities that still resist. In Shenzhou, I may not have the time to be with you every day. On Tiang Ind, you can see me daily," Zhong Shan advised.


    Pouting, Ying Lan reluctantly agreed, "Fine."


    "Lin Xiao, Mr. Shi, you''ll apany me back to Shenzhou," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Both responded promptly.


    "You two leave first. Ying Lan, fetch Hao Meili," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Okay!" Ying Lan acknowledged, and everyone began to depart.


    "Should we go too?" Bao''er asked, looking at Zhong Shan alongside Qianyou.


    "Hao Meili is too aloof and has a peculiar temper. Her sharp tongue could hurt you both. It''s best for you to leave now, and I''ll inform youter of what transpires," Zhong Shan reassured.


    "Understood," the two women nodded.


    Soon, only Zhong Shan remained in the study. Hao Meili entered, carrying Little Golden Dragon and pushed the door open.


    "Zhong Shan, you finally remembered me?" Hao Meiliined.


    "Sorry, these days have been too busy," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Yes, upgrading the dynasty, you wouldn''t have gotten far without me," Hao Meili arrogantly imed credit for herself.


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly. Indeed, without Hao Meili, there would be no Zhong Shan today. Originally, the "Forging the Heavenly Court" was meant for Hao Meili, but in the end, he had gained from it. Therefore, no matter how much credit Hao Meili imed, Zhong Shan harbored no anger.


    "Speak up. You''ve been with me all this time. What do you want? Or how can I help you?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Oh? Are you willing to help me?" Hao Meili''s eyes lit up.


    "At least say it first. Asking me to slit my throat, I can''t just listen to you," Zhong Shan chuckled wryly.


    "Well, I won''t beat around the bush. I made the old man find the Immortal Steles. He only found one, and the rest were obtained from you. Also, I risked my life to obtain some from the Netherworld. I noticed you''re exceptionally skilled at finding Immortal Steles. Every time you find one, there are dozens," Hao Meili exined.


    "Well, those were the Immortal Steles from the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty. Naturally, I can get them," Zhong Shan shook his head, smiling.


    "I don''t care. The Immortal Steles are crucial to me. You''ve seen so many, proving you''re destined for them. The Dragon King once told me that those destined could see even more. So, I want you to fetch the remaining Immortal Steles for me," Hao Meili demanded.


    With a wry smile, Zhong Shan replied, "But I don''t know where the remaining Immortal Steles are."


    "I do!" Hao Meili dered.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at Hao Meili.


    "There are forty-four Immortal Steles left, divided among the Pure Land of Bliss, Eternal Realm, Great Departure Dynasty, and Taishui Dynasty, with eleven each. I want you to fetch them for me!" Hao Meili insisted.


    With each location Hao Meili mentioned, Zhong Shan nced at her. These four ces were the most powerful forces in the Divine Land of Shenzhou: two sacrednds and two heavenly dynasties. Who dared to venture there and retrieve the Immortal Steles?


    "I''ll do my best!" Zhong Shan unexpectedly nodded.


    "Huh?" Hao Meili was momentarily speechless, unable to fathom why Zhong Shan agreed so readily. It didn''t make sense; this guy was usually so stingy, he shouldn''t agree so easily!


    "Thank you for saving Ying Lan. These ces you mentioned, though challenging, I''ll do my best. Whether I seed or not depends on fate," Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "Just for that girl? Don''t deceive me!" Hao Meili still had doubts.


    "In the Divine Land of Shenzhou, who would dare deceive you? You''re the Vessel of Ten Evils; even heaven and earth can''t deceive you," Zhong Shan smiled, partly for Ying Lan''s sake and partly for the favor owed from "Forging the Heavenly Court."


    "Well, true," Hao Meili nodded thoughtfully. It was rare for things to go so smoothly.


    "You''ve been out for so long. Isn''t the Senior Poisonous before you worried?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "What''s there to worry about with me? Who dares to mess with me? But speaking of which, the old man is going back after finding things for me. I''ll leave tomorrow," Hao Meili replied after some consideration.


    "Alright, I''ll be here. If you need me, juste to the Great Yu Empire," Zhong Shan said.


    "Okay!"


    Over the next ten days, Zhong Shan set aside all political matters and focused solely on apanying Bao''er. Although Qianyou felt a bit ufortable, she didn''t throw any tantrums, understanding that Zhong Shan''s time on Tiang Ind was dwindling.


    Despite having two bodies, only the original was deeply connected to the Empress. The hidden body shared Zhong Shan''s thoughts but at most exchanged affectionate gestures with the Empress.


    Four and a half monthster, Zhong Shan''s original body, Princess Qianyou, Lin Xiao, and Mr. Shi returned to the Divine Land of Shenzhou, specifically to the ancient capital of the Grand Luo Dynasty.


    Looking at the bustling and magnificent ancient capital, Lin Xiao, like Zhong Shan before him, was momentarily dazzled. Mr. Shi, however, seemed indifferent to the splendor of the ancient capital.


    It had been a year and a half since Zhong Shan left the ancient capital with Princess Qianyou. There remained half a year before Zhong Shan''s authorized leave would expire.


    The four flew directly to the Eastern Mansion!


    "General! Princess!" The fiery-eyed Wolf Generals rushed out of the Eastern Mansion first, exhrated.


    "Princess, Mr. Shi!" Ada and A''Er quickly flew out of the Eastern Mansion.


    "General!" Following them, Shui Wuheng and Liu Wushuang also hurriedly paid their respects.


    Everyone scrutinized Lin Xiao and Mr. Shi repeatedly. Lin Xiao did the same to everyone.


    "Let''s talk inside!" Zhong Shan led everyone into the Eastern Mansion, flying directly to the Eastern Hall on the Floating Ind.


    Inside the hall, Zhong Shan looked at Shui Wuheng and said, "This is Lin Xiao, whom I have brought back. From now on, Wuheng, you should learn from him."


    Shui Wuheng looked slightly puzzled and nced skeptically at Lin Xiao but nodded, "Yes."


    "And this is Mr. Shi! Don''t disturb him unless absolutely necessary."


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 388: Abducting the Princess

    <h4>Chapter 388: Abducting the Princess</h4>


    "Princess, His Majesty sent word earlier, summoning you to see him as soon as you returned," Ada said.


    "Hmm? Did he mention what it was about?" Princess Qianyou asked with curiosity.


    "No," Ada shook his head.


    "Alright," Princess Qianyou nodded, then nced at Zhong Shan.


    "You should go. Ada, A''Er, apany her," Zhong Shan said considerately.


    "Yes!" Ada and A''Er immediately responded. The three then left to meet the Ancient Divine Messenger.


    "Wuheng, Wushuang, take Lin Xiao to meet the Zhong Family Army and arrange the best amodations for him," Zhong Shan turned to Shui Wuheng and Liu Wushuang.


    "Yes!" They replied promptly, leading Lin Xiao away.


    Inside the hall, only Mr. Shi remained. With a wave of Zhong Shan''s hand, the doors of the hall closed.


    "Your Majesty?" Mr. Shi looked slightly puzzled.


    "In the Great Yu Empire, you call me Your Majesty. Here, you can call me General," Zhong Shan gestured for Mr. Shi to sit down.


    Mr. Shi sat down lightly, looking at Zhong Shan with curiosity. "General, you asked me to stay behind alone. Is there something you want to discuss?"


    "Do you remember the ce I took you to before we left?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "Kaiyang Sect?" Mr. Shi asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, that''s where I paid homage. It''s where my Master, Tianxingzi, also my father-inw, resides. This time, returning to Tiang Ind to unify it, on one hand is for the Great Yu Empire, and on the other hand, it''s for you," Zhong Shan stared at Mr. Shi.


    "Oh?" Mr. Shi was slightly puzzled.


    "I know your background is extraordinary, and I don''t intend to pry into it. But my judgment, Zhong Shan''s judgment, has always been extremely urate. The journey back here has confirmed this. Even when you first saw the majestic city of the ancient capital, your expression remained unchanged. I don''t know what abilities you possess, but I''m certain that your abilities are mysterious enough to surprise most people. Unexpected abilities are the strongest," Zhong Shan said.


    "You''re right," Mr. Shi surprisingly agreed directly.


    "I brought you to Shenzhou to aplish a great and risky task together. I wonder if you''re interested," Zhong Shan stared at Mr. Shi.


    "What task?" Mr. Shi frowned slightly.


    "To abduct a princess of a heavenly dynasty!" Zhong Shan said slowly.


    "Huh?" Mr. Shi''s pupils contracted.


    "Aren''t you already with Ancient Qianyou?" Mr. Shi was somewhat puzzled.


    "I''m not talking about Qianyou, nor the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. I''m talking about the Princess of the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    Da Li Heavenly Dynasty? Mr. Shi''s mouth gaped open. He looked at Zhong Shan in shock. Was Zhong Shan serious? He already had a wife protected by an immortal, and now he wanted to abduct another princess of a heavenly dynasty?


    "And she''s also my wife!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    Mr. Shi, who had seen his share of storms, couldn''t help but be amazed. Zhong Shan was still so young; his work'' was just too vast. Although he was a sovereign, this sovereign was truly powerful!


    "Speaking of which, you''ve met my wife before," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Oh?" Mr. Shi frowned.


    "She''s the daughter of my Master, Tianling''er, whom you saw the first time we met," Zhong Shan exined seriously.


    "Is it her?" Mr. Shi pondered for a moment.


    "Yes, it''s her. I must bring her back. The Heavenly Princess isn''t suitable for her. Although she seems naive, she is the bravest when ites to love and hate. She has endured a lot for me and even sacrificed herself to save me. Even at the brink of death, she was silly enough to ask if she could be my wife. Despitecking extraordinary cultivation or exceptional wisdom, she warms my heart! A woman who warms my heart must be loved and cherished, so I must bring her back, not sneakily, but openly. I will wear golden armor, ride on a five-colored auspicious cloud, lead thousands of soldiers and horses, and bring her back with the most powerful and magnificent procession!" Zhongshan thought and said.


    The image of Tianlinger, naive, stubborn, pitiful, foolishly unregretful, and unwavering until death, is deeply engraved in Zhongshan''s heart, and he has never forgotten it for a moment.


    Mr. Shi stared at Zhongshan and said after a while, "The Great Departure Dynasty will definitely not allow you to seed. It may not be too difficult to sneak Tianlinger out, but you want to do it openly, with a strong and grand disy. That''s too difficult!"


    "Do you think I''m being unreasonable? Too impulsive? Haha, some things only need results, but for some things, the process is more important. Tianlinger, she deserves me to do this for her once. Even if everyone thinks I''m foolish, I have no regrets in my heart." Zhongshan said firmly.


    "No! Those who think you''re foolish are the truly foolish ones. Although I don''t have your courage, I know that every giant owl I''ve known is a person of true emotion, whether the most upright, the most evil, or even the most malicious. They can stand at the pinnacle not by achieving sess without any feelings, but precisely because they are the most free-spirited people of true emotion. Each of them has their own inner perseverance. Some say it''s their weakness, but I know it''s the foundation that enables them to achieve greatness as giants or even higher achievements. It''s their catalyst, the most powerful motivation in the face of difficulties time and time again. Ordinary people face insurmountable obstacles when they exceed their limits, while they are able to ovee these obstacles time and again because of this fearless spirit of true emotion. Without this fearless spirit, they would not achieve such immeasurable heights." Mr. Shi shook his head and sighed.


    "You understand it well, but as I mentioned, the difficulties ahead are considerable. Although I won''t be facing the entire Great Departure Dynasty, it will certainly be fraught with dangers and challenges. At the very least, the conservative factions of the Great Departure Dynasty will not let me seed. If you don''t want to wade into this muddy water, I won''t force you!" Zhongshan stared at Mr. Shi.


    "Haha, you''ve already brought me here. There''s no reason for me to let go now. If you''re not afraid of the Great Departure Dynasty, I''m not afraid either. Under the sky, there''s no one who can make me fear." Mr. Shi said confidently.


    "Good, it seems returning to Tiang Ind this time is the right decision." Zhongshan smiled.


    Mr. Shi smiled and remained silent!


    The next day, Princess Qianyou returned to Dongfang Mansion once again.


    "What? Where are you going?" Zhongshan frowned in surprise.


    "To the Seven Star Hall. Originally, my identity as a Jun Ding was extremely confidential, known to only a few people in the entire Daluo Dynasty. However, due to the incident where Shen Qitian killed Yiningst time, it was exposed and known to the Seven Star Hall. The hall master of the Seven Star Hall personally approached the emperor and requested that I go there to study for a while, and also to open some of the Seven Star Hall''s most secret things to me. Even the hall master will personally teach me some things." Princess Qianyou frowned.


    "The hall master of the Seven Star Hall? Can hepare to the emperor? Is it necessary for him to teach you personally?" Zhongshan raised an eyebrow.


    "Of course he can''tpare to the emperor, but since the hall master of the Seven Star Hall spoke, the emperor required me to go." Princess Qianyou said helplessly.


    "The Seven Star Hall? Who exactly is the hall master of the Seven Star Hall?" Zhongshan frowned with concern.


    "Don''t worry, it''s a woman. I won''t have as many wives as you do." Princess Qianyou saw Zhongshan''s amused smile.


    Zhongshan rubbed his nose and smiled helplessly.


    "The hall master of the Seven Star Hall is a strange woman. Originally in love with the emperor, but unfortunately the emperor chose to build the Heavenly Dynasty and gather the fortunes of the world. Simrly, the emperor, like you, has several empresses. The hall master of the Seven Star Hall couldn''t stand sharing a man with other empresses, so she has refused to meet the emperor again, and founded the Seven Star Hall. However, there is still that deep-seated love between the two. With the passage of time, instead of letting go, the emperor has be even more profound. He constantly orders various benefits for the Seven Star Hall in the Daluo Dynasty, such as the elders of the Seven Star Hall being able to rmend disciples in the Golden Core stage to be officials of the fifth rank in the Daluo Dynasty. Although the hall master of the Seven Star Hall didn''t appreciate it, the affiliated Seven Major Alliance Sects were very enthusiastic and naturally sent them all, just like you did in the beginning." Princess Qianyou said.


    "So that''s how it is," Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    "Yeah, ever since the Holy Emperor founded the Heavenly Dynasty, the Hall Master of the Seven Star Hall hasn''t met the Holy Emperor again. But this time, she personally asked me toe over. You think the Holy Emperor can refuse? He insisted that I must go and fully cooperate," Princess Qianyou said helplessly.


    "If the Hall Master of the Seven Star Hall asks you to go, it''s definitely not just for studying for a while. Be careful!" Zhongshan thought for a moment.


    "I know. Even though I''m already an elder of the Seven Star Hall, I haven''t seen her with my own eyes yet. This time, not only am I asked to go, but I''m also asked to bring the Wind God Bow. There must be some purpose behind it. It''s just that the Holy Emperor also ordered Ada and A''er to go with us..." Princess Qianyou frowned slightly.


    "Go ahead, having two more people will be safer. Anyway, don''t force yourself," Zhongshan said.


    "Mm!" Princess Qianyou nodded.


    Just as the two were talking to each other, a loud announcement suddenly came from outside Dongfang Mansion.


    "Announcing Lord Zhongshan of the Eastern Mansion, to enter the court and meet the Emperor!"


    The voice of a herald echoed.


    "Huh?" Zhongshan was slightly stunned.


    "The Emperor inquired about you yesterday and knew you were back!" Princess Qianyou said.


    "But my vacation time isn''t over yet!" Zhongshan showed a hint of puzzlement.


    "Announcing Lord Zhongshan of the Eastern Mansion, to enter the court and meet the Emperor!"


    The herald outside continued to announce.


    Helpless, Zhongshan had no choice but to step out of the hall and greet the herald.


    The chief eunuch stood outside Dongfang Mansion. As soon as Zhongshan appeared, he announced again, "Announcing Lord Zhongshan of the Eastern Mansion, to enter the court and meet the Emperor!"


    "Understood!" Zhongshan could only furrow his brow and respond.


    Subsequently, amidst the curious gazes of the crowd, Zhongshan followed the chief eunuch towards the direction of the pce, flying towards the ancient Tai Gu Shrine to meet the Holy Emperor.


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 389: Diplomatic Mission to the Great Departure Heavenly Dynasty

    <h4>Chapter 389: Diplomatic Mission to the Great Departure Heavenly Dynasty</h4>


    At the foot of the ancient mountain, Zhongshan looked up at the sky. At this hour, there shouldn''t be any court meetings.


    "Lord Dongfang, the Emperor is waiting at the Tai Gu Shrine. You should hurry!" a eunuch said.


    "Oh, understood!" Zhongshan nodded and quickly ascended the steps, heading straight towards the Tai Gu Shrine above.


    Upon reaching the entrance of the hall, Zhongshan noticed that all the guards around the Tai Gu Shrine had been withdrawn. Unusual.


    Zhongshan stepped inside.


    "Kuang~~~~~~"


    The doors of the Tai Gu Shrine mmed shut. Zhongshan paused for a moment.


    Inside the Tai Gu Shrine, there was only one person: the Holy Emperor of the Great Luo, dressed in a robe of nine dragons and wearing a white jade t-topped crown, exuding an ancient aura.


    "I, Zhongshan, pay respects to Your Majesty. May Your Majesty enjoy eternal blessings and longevity matching the heavens," Zhongshan immediately bowed respectfully.


    "Matching the heavens?" The Holy Emperor of Great Luo revealed a yful smile, seeming somewhat disdainful.


    Zhongshan was slightly surprised.


    "The Great Leng Dynasty, Zhongshan!" Suddenly, the Holy Emperor called out.


    Hearing the Holy Emperor''s words, Zhongshan''s whole body felt a chill, startled. The Emperor knew? After a moment of panic, Zhongshan immediately calmed down and took a deep breath.


    How could the Emperor know his other identity? But in such a vast Tiang Ind, if the Emperor investigated carefully, it was impossible to hide. However, Tiang Ind was too remote; why would the Emperor pay attention to it? Did that mean the Emperor had been watching him closely and investigating everything about him for a long time?


    Would the Emperor harm him? Probably not. If the Emperor wanted to crush him, why go through such borate announcements?


    "Zhongshan, I greet the Holy Emperor again!" Zhongshan said again, his face showing no panic.


    "Good! As an emperor, one should have the demeanor to remain calm even when the sky copses in front of them," the Holy Emperor showed a hint of appreciation.


    "Please forgive me, Your Majesty. The Great Leng Dynasty has just begun, and there are many things I do not yet understand. Therefore, I had to leave a puppet on Tiang Ind while I came out to observe and learn," Zhongshan gradually straightened up. Since the Holy Emperor already knew, no matter what he said, he was now an emperor. Mentally, he couldn''t afford to show weakness.


    Looking at Zhongshan, the Holy Emperor of Great Luo smiled faintly and said, "Learn? Haha, among the ministers of the Great Luo Dynasty, you are the only one who dares to act as a minister while calling yourself an emperor. You are indeed skilled in bncing both roles."


    "Please forgive me again, Your Majesty!" Zhongshan said once more.


    "Being recognized by Emperor Xuan Cui, you are quite a character. Moreover, Qianyou cares for you. If she lives well, it can also be considered as repaying her biological father from back then," the Holy Emperor sighed softly.


    "Your Majesty is overly kind!" Zhongshan took a deep breath. It seemed he had gained some favor due to Qianyou.


    "The Great Luo Dynasty has existed for more than eight thousand years. My lifespan of ten thousand years is nearing its end. Soon, I must face the Heavenly Tribtion. Whether I can seed or not is still unknown. The four princes have already begun to collect the Imperial Seal of the Heavenly Dynasty. Your dynasty, let it exist," the Holy Emperor said indifferently.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Zhongshan immediately bowed respectfully.


    This was the Holy Emperor''s tacit acknowledgment of Zhongshan''s dual identity. Zhongshan had originally been prepared to give up his official position in the Great Luo Dynasty, but now that the situation had taken a turn, Zhongshan naturally felt extremely grateful and once again showed the proper respect as a subject.


    "Your Majesty will definitely be able to withstand the Heavenly Tribtion, reverse the ordinary fate, and achieve immortal status," Zhongshan wished again.


    "Immortal status? Heh~~" The Holy Emperor showed a trace of disdainful smile and did not say more.


    Seeing the expression of the Holy Emperor, Zhongshan''s pupils contracted, full of surprise. Disdain? The Holy Emperor was disdainful? Disdainful of what? Zhongshan was very curious and wanted to ask, but in the end, he didn''t say anything more.


    "I wonder what important matter Your Majesty has summoned me for," Zhongshan suppressed his doubts and asked again.


    Zhongshan couldn''t believe that the Emperor had summoned him just to expose his identity. There had to be something more important.


    "Do you know why I appointed you as the Deputy Minister of Rituals?" the Ancient Divine Envoys asked.


    "I don''t know!" Zhongshan said truthfully.


    The Ancient Divine Envoys seemed to suddenly recall something, furrowing his brow slightly as if reminiscing about past events. There was a hint of tenderness in his eyes, but suddenly, that reminiscent expression turned fierce, causing Zhongshan''s pupils to shrink, and the temperature in the entire hall plummeted. It even produced a faint white frost.


    "Hoo~~~~~~~" The Ancient Divine Envoys took a deep breath and closed his eyes.


    Throughout this, Zhongshan didn''t interrupt.


    "I want you to represent me on a mission to the Great Departure Heavenly Dynasty!" the Ancient Divine Envoys sighed deeply with his eyes closed.


    "Eh? Great Departure Heavenly Dynasty?" Zhongshan opened his mouth in astonishment. How coincidental!


    Opening his eyes slightly, the Ancient Divine Envoys said, "What? Is there a problem?"


    "No!" Zhongshan immediately shook his head.


    "Although there are many people in the court, just like the countless stars in the sky, there''s no one less now, and you are a new star with a clean background. It just so happens that you will represent me," said the Ancient Divine Envoys.


    A clean background? Zhongshan was speechless. Perhaps the Ancient Divine Envoys believed his background on Tiang Ind was "clean". However, it worked out well! The Ancient Divine Envoys wouldn''t continue to investigate him deeply.


    "Yes! I wonder what my purpose is for this trip?" Zhongshan immediately nodded.


    Originally, he was going to the Great Departure Heavenly Dynasty, and now he could do so under the banner of the Great Luo Dynasty. Wasn''t this even more convenient?


    Taking out two objects, one was a jade slip with special restrictions, and the other was an ordinary bamboo flute.


    As soon as the jade slip and bamboo flute left the hands of the Ancient Divine Envoys, they floated slowly towards Zhongshan, who carefully caught them.


    "Deliver the bamboo flute and jade slip into the hands of Nie Fanchen. He will understand!" the Ancient Divine Envoys said solemnly.


    Nie Fanchen, the Emperor of the Great Departure Heavenly Dynasty!


    Looking at the jade slip and bamboo flute, Zhongshan carefully put them away. He noticed that the Ancient Divine Envoys'' gaze had been fixed on the bamboo flute, showing a great deal of care.


    "Yes!" Zhongshan replied and stored the items.


    "This is a confidential matter, and no third person must know!" the Ancient Divine Envoys said with a serious expression.


    "Yes!" Zhongshan was slightly puzzled.


    "The Great Departure Heavenly Dynasty has a Thousand-Year Tree, which blooms and bears fruit every thousand years. Each time, it only produces five fruits. Your purpose in visiting the Great Departure Heavenly Dynasty this time is to obtain one Thousand-Year Fruit. Tomorrow, there will be an imperial decree issued to your residence," said the Ancient Divine Envoys.


    "Yes," Zhongshan immediately bowed.


    "Of course, do not tarnish the dignity of the Great Luo Dynasty," the Ancient Divine Envoys suddenly smiled slightly.


    "Eh? Yes," Zhongshan was slightly surprised. Was the Ancient Divine Envoys hinting at causing a stir?


    Inside a pce of the Great Departure Heavenly Dynasty.


    Tianlinger leaned back on a veryfortable chair, her eyes closed, her brows slightly furrowed, and her thumbs pressing against her temples, massaging.


    On a small table beside her, a red sparrow continuously pecked at red grains of rice. The grains of rice were very strange, emitting a faint light like gemstones, clearly not ordinary rice. The little sparrow kept eating.


    "Duo, Duo, Duo, Duo... " Tianlinger rubbed her head for a while, then opened her eyes with a troubled expression, turning her head to look at the little red sparrow beside her.


    She patted the little sparrow''s head with her hand.


    "Xiao Hong, all you know is eating, eating those ''Fire Gathering Rice'' every day, and you haven''t grown at all after so many years," Tianlinger pouted andined.


    The little sparrow actually stopped eating and looked at Tianlinger, tilting its small head.


    "Lately, I don''t know what''s wrong with me. My mind is filled with the image of that ''Osmanthus Cake''. It seems like he''s about to turn around, but he just won''t turn around. It''s been decades, why do I keep seeing ''Osmanthus Cake'' every day? It''s really annoying. When I ask Mother, she always says she doesn''t know, but she seems to know, just refusing to tell me. Hmph, since you won''t say, I''ll definitely remember it, but every time I try to think about it, my head hurts. It''s really frustrating," Tianlinger said with a troubled expression.


    "Chirp chirp chirp chirp chirp," the little sparrow continued to chirp.


    However, despite spending decades together with the little sparrow, Tianlinger still couldn''t understand a word of its "chirping".


    "You silly bird, even after all these years, you still can''t speak humannguage. I really don''t understand why those phoenixes in the Phoenix Pce are afraid of you. Even if you pluck their feathers, they dare not get angry with you," Tianlinger said with a puzzled expression.


    "Chirp chirp chirp chirp chirp," the little sparrow chirped proudly. Then it stopped "talking" to Tianlinger and resumed eating the red grains.


    Seeing the little sparrow ignoring her again, Tianlinger pursed her lips, reached out, and grabbed the small pouch containing the Fire Gathering Rice.


    Suddenly, the Fire Gathering Rice disappeared. The little sparrow was stunned, then turned its head to look at Tianlinger with a pitiful expression, as if asking her to quickly return its food.


    "No, if you don''t speak today, you''re not allowed to eat," Tianlinger covered the mouth of the pouch and dered.


    The little sparrow looked like it wanted to cry but couldn''t shed tears: "....."


    Unexpected disaster! ��


    Great Luo Dynasty.


    Under orders, Zhongshan headed north to thend of Shen Zhou, the Great Departure Heavenly Dynasty! He sought to obtain a ''Thousand-Year Fruit'' while also bringing some specialties of the Great Luo Dynasty as gifts.


    Princess Qianyou led Ada and A''er to the Seven Star Hall.


    In the northern part of the ancient capital of the Holy City, a deste mountainous area stood eighty thousand soldiers and fifty thousand wolves. At the summit of the mountain peak, behind Zhongshan stood Mr. Shi, Zhihuo, Linxiao, Liwu Shuang, and Shui Wuheng.


    "General, it should be in that direction, we can''t be wrong," Shui Wuheng pointed to the distance.


    "Full speed ahead!" Zhongshan nodded.


    "Yes!"

 Chapter 390: Encounter with Sword Pride Again

    <h4>Chapter 390: Encounter with Sword Pride Again</h4>


    Five monthster, Zhong Shan led his army to the borders of the Da Luo Celestial Empire.


    The army marched forward continuously.


    "Report~~~~~~!"


    A scout flew in swiftly from a distance.


    "Reporting to the Grand Marshal, we have discovered an army of several million ahead. They are in neat formations, awaiting orders under the banner of ''Taizong''," the scout reported immediately.


    "Taizong? The Third Prince, King Taizong?" Shui Wuhen eximed in slight surprise.


    "He''s waiting for us?" Lin Xiao asked with a hint of doubt.


    "Waiting for us?" Shui Wuhen looked at Lin Xiao, puzzled.


    "To be precise, he should be waiting for the Grand Marshal," Lin Xiao replied.


    Zhong Shan nced into the distance, contemted for a moment, and then said to the scout in front of him, "Lead the way!"


    The army advanced slowly towards the so-called King Taizong''s camp in the distance.


    Soon after, Zhong Shan saw the army of several million spread out on a in, standing quietly with strict military discipline. In front of the army was a massive pce, which served as King Taizong''smand tent.


    Standing before the pce, dressed in military attire, was King Taizong himself, apanied by his closest generals, waiting in a grand and solemn manner.


    Zhong Shan approached.


    "Your humble servant, Zhong Shan, pays respects to Your Highness and the esteemed generals!" Zhong Shan saluted the group.


    "There''s no need for such formality, Lord Zhong. It''s been a long time since west met, and you remain as impressive as ever. I originally wanted to invite you to Taizong City for a long talk, but knowing that you have important matters to attend to, I feared dying your journey. Thus, I moved the pce here to bid you farewell," King Taizong said with a smile as warm as a spring breeze, kindly grabbing Zhong Shan''s arm and leading him towards the pce.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly, inwardly praising King Taizong''s skill��not in cultivation, but in dealing with people. Such grandeur just to see him off?


    "Your Highness is too kind," Zhong Shan said modestly, being led by the arm.


    Behind them, Lin Xiao, Shui Wuhen, and Liu Wushuang organized the troops outside, while Mr. Corpse and Zhi Huo followed closely behind.


    The pce was filled with a variety of delicacies.


    "Lord Zhong, your deeds��like the Wrath of the Heavens, the Heaven Copsing n, and the brilliant debate in the court against Shen Qitian��still fill me with awe. It''s rare to meet such a legendary figure in this world," King Taizong praised as he invited Zhong Shan and the others to sit.


    "Your Highness overpraises me; I was merely fortunate," Zhong Shan said humbly.


    "Fortunate? Haha, how many in the world could be so fortunate? I wonder what kind of sect could produce a talent like you, Lord Zhong?" King Taizong asked, smiling as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly. Did King Taizong not know he was from the Kaiyang Sect?


    "Haha, just a small sect, nothing worth mentioning," Zhong Shan replied with a smile, shaking his head.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s reluctance to borate, King Taizong tactfully changed the subject. Throughout the banquet, King Taizong didn''t mention anything about recruiting Zhong Shan. Their conversation was filled with anecdotes and interesting stories, carefully avoiding any political topics. Yet, this very approach showcased King Taizong''s brilliance��subtly nting seeds in Zhong Shan''s mind for future opportunities.


    During the banquet, King Taizong had arranged for some songs and dances. Although they couldn''tpare to the unforgettable Golden Sands Dance of old, they were still quite exquisite, with the singers and dancers all being exceptionally talented.


    Mr. Corpse and Zhi Huo remained silent throughout, simply enjoying the food. After about an hour, someone came in to report.


    "Your Highness, two soldiers from the Alpha Battalion are here with yourmand token, requesting an audience."


    "Oh? Mymand token?" King Taizong asked, slightly puzzled.


    "Cease the music and dance, and invite them in!" King Taizong suddenly seemed to remember and immediately instructed.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan was slightly puzzled. Soldiers? Soldiers under King Taizong? Why such solemnity for these soldiers?


    "Yes!" The one who reported quickly left.


    Soon, two men walked in from outside the hall.


    Both had changed out of their military uniforms into pristine white garments. Each carried a long sword on their back, one walking slightly ahead of the other, resembling a master and servant duo.


    The moment they stepped into the hall, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, a sh of surprise crossing his eyes. He recognized these two from twenty years ago on Tiang Ind.


    Jian Ao! The same Jian Ao who had fought Zhong Shan to a draw in the Eight Trigrams Golden Lock Formation. The Jian Ao who sought to defeat all heroes with his single sword! And always by his side, his protector, Chujie!


    Jian Ao and Chujie!


    Jian Ao stepped into the hall, a subtle breeze seeming to follow him. Upon closer inspection, it was not a breeze but a constant swirl of sword energy, resembling a gentle wind, encircling him.


    Chujie remained respectfully behind Jian Ao.


    Jian Ao also noticed Zhong Shan as he entered, but merely nced at him without paying much attention. His eyes were filled with a singr sword intent.


    "Jian Ao, why have youe?" King Taizong asked, waving his hand to have his subordinates quickly vacate seats and prepare new dishes.


    "Gu Taizong, I have honed my swordsmanship in your camp. Today, I haveprehended all I needed and havee to express my gratitude and to bid you farewell," Jian Ao said solemnly, looking at King Taizong.


    "Farewell? Though you have been in the camp for twenty years, I have not yet had the chance to fully extend my hospitality. Why note to Taizong City with me to make up for this regret?" King Taizong suggested.


    "No, perhaps another time if fate allows. I owe you a debt of gratitude," Jian Ao replied, shaking his head.


    Receiving Jian Ao''s promise, King Taizong smiled slightly and said, "If that''s the case, I won''t insist. If you ever need my help in the future, just ask."


    Jian Ao gave a slight bow, then turned and left with the silent Chujie following.


    Watching Jian Ao depart, King Taizong''s brow furrowed slightly, but he showed no outward emotion.


    "Your Highness, it''s gettingte. We must also be on our way," Zhong Shan said, rising to his feet.


    "Ah? Very well, I''ll see you off!" King Taizong didn''t try to detain them, instead cheerfully escorting Zhong Shan.


    Outside the hall, he continued to escort them for a hundred miles.


    Atop a mountain peak, King Taizong and his subordinates watched the departing Zhong Shan and his army.


    "What do you think?" King Taizong asked someone behind him.


    "His reputation is well-deserved!" A white-robed strategist behind King Taizong sighed softly.


    "What have you found out?" King Taizong asked, his brow furrowing.


    "Nothing definitive. Zhong Shan''s background traces back to being a guard for Princess Qianyou. Beyond that, there''s no trace," the white-robed strategist shook his head.


    "No trace at all? That''s impossible; it''s been thoroughly erased. Who in the Da Luo Celestial Empire could sopletely erase Zhong Shan''s background that even my Tian Ce Mansion can''t find a trace?" King Taizong squinted his eyes.


    "The Emperor? Your Highness, are you suggesting the Emperor erased Zhong Shan''s background?" the white-robed strategist asked, his pupils shrinking.


    "Yes. The Emperor intends to use this person, and has done so thoroughly. Spread my order: withdraw all personnel and cease any further investigations into Zhong Shan," King Taizongmanded.


    "Understood!" the white-robed strategist replied immediately.


    Zhong Shan led his army, continuing their march northeastward.


    Five dayster, at night, the army rested in a concealed valley. In the brightly lit centralmand hall, no guards were allowed within a hundred feet, and sound was isted by a formation.


    This was because the Zhong Family Army had two distinguished guests: Jian Ao and Chujie.


    Inside the hall, only some in tea was prepared.


    "Jian Ao, you''re not here to challenge me again, are you?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    Jian Ao nced at Zhong Shan and said, "It''s not time yet."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at Jian Ao in confusion.


    "My swordsmanship is not yet refined, and you are still growing. I need a battle where I can give my all, and that time is not now," Jian Ao replied.


    "Have you been honing your sword skills on the battlefield all these years?" Zhong Shan asked directly, knowing Jian Ao preferred straightforwardness.


    "Leading the charge, always serving as amon soldier, only for the sake of my swordsmanship, not for cultivation," Jian Ao said.


    "I, on the other hand, focus solely on cultivation!" Zhong Shan said with augh.


    "Then you''re progressing too slowly!" Jian Ao suddenly said, shocking everyone.


    "Slow?" Zhong Shan was taken aback. Was he really progressing slowly?


    "You are only at the third level of the Nascent Soul stage, not much different from the Grand Marshal," Zhihuo, the me Wolf General, couldn''t help but interject.


    "But half a year ago, the young master was only at the first level of the Golden Core stage," Chujie said proudly from the side.


    "What?" Zhong Shan was astonished. From the first level of the Golden Core stage to the third level of the Nascent Soul stage in half a year? Was that even humanly possible?


    "To hone his swordsmanship, he intentionally suppressed his cultivation until heprehended what he needed, then rapidly increased his cultivation," Mr. Corpse said, wide-eyed with surprise.


    Jian Ao nodded.


    Zhong Shan was momentarily speechless, then sighed deeply. Such innate talent was truly a world apart.


    "Are you heading to the Pure Land to attend the once-in-a-millennium ''Great Nirvana Assembly''?" Jian Ao suddenly asked.


    "The Great Nirvana Assembly?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow, suddenly recalling something.


    Over nine years ago, the Golden Cicada Buddha had given him a purple cassock and an invitation token, inviting him to attend some grand assembly in the Pure Land ten yearster. Yes, it was the Great Nirvana Assembly.


    "Are you nning to go to the Pure Land?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Jian Ao took out a token identical to Zhong Shan''s.


    "I received an invitation, but I don''t want to go. If you''re interested, you can have it," Jian Ao said casually, tossing the token to Zhong Shan.


    "p."


    Catching the token, Zhong Shan took out his own andpared them carefully. They were indeed identical.


    "The Pure Land?" Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, looking at the token.


    "These tokens are issued in limited quantities, only eighty-one each time, given to virtuous cultivators in Shenzhou. Each token allows only one person to attend. It''s said that each Great Nirvana Assembly is a great opportunity for Buddhist cultivators. Don''t you want to go?" Jian Ao asked with a smile.


    "I want to go, but I don''t know the way," Zhong Shan said, looking at Jian Ao.

 Chapter 391: The Demon Nightmare Legion

    <h4>Chapter 391: The Demon Nightmare Legion</h4>


    Shui Wuhen led the army steadily towards the northwest, apanied only by Lin Xiao and Liu Wushuang. He still remembered Zhong Shan''s instructions from that day.


    "Shui Wuhen, you willmand the 800,000-strong Zhong Family Army. Lin Xiao will serve as your strategist. If you encounter any difficult problems, seek Lin Xiao''s counsel," Zhong Shan had said.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen had responded.


    "I know you might not be convinced of Lin Xiao''s abilities, but over time, you wille to appreciate them. Lin Xiao has much more experience in leading troops than you do. Generally, Lin Xiao will only offer advice and not interfere with your decisions. However, I am giving Lin Xiao amand token. In life-and-death situations, Lin Xiao can use this token to takemand of the entire army, and you must obey him," Zhong Shan had stated firmly.


    Shui Wuhen had frowned but still responded, "Understood!"


    "Zhihuo, your task is to ensure the safety of Lin Xiao, Shui Wuhen, and Liu Wushuang," Zhong Shan had instructed the me Wolf General.


    "Yes!" Zhihuo had replied immediately.


    "How will we stay in contact?" Shui Wuhen had asked, concerned.


    "I have already mapped out the route. Mark each city you pass with the symbols I provided. Mr. Corpse and I will be moving faster than the army. Once we''vepleted our tasks, we''ll rendezvous with you," Zhong Shan had assured them.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen had replied.


    Reflecting on those instructions from two months ago, Shui Wuhen could still remember them clearly.


    "Mr. Lin, do you know where the Grand Marshal has gone? They haven''t returned yet," Shui Wuhen asked.


    "I don''t know. The Grand Marshal will return when it''s time. Let''s focus on our march," Lin Xiao said.


    "Hmm," Shui Wuhen nodded.


    While Shui Wuhen continued on one path, Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse took another.


    Along with Jian Ao and Chujie, the four of them swiftly advanced in one direction.


    "Jian Ao, how much longer?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Soon. I''ll guide you for a few more days, and then we''ll enter the ''Buddha-Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains.'' I won''t go any further, but finding a sect that knows the way to the Pure Land won''t be difficult," Jian Ao replied.


    "Thank you for guiding us!" Zhong Shan said.


    Jian Ao smiled faintly.


    "Look over there," Mr. Corpse suddenly spoke.


    Following Mr. Corpse''s gaze, they saw a faint dark red aura rising into the sky from the distant horizon.


    "What a heavy murderous aura," Chujie frowned.


    "It''s not just murderous aura; there''s resentment and death energy mixed in," Mr. Corpse said, narrowing his eyes.


    The four exchanged nces and then flew towards the source.


    Standing atop a distant mountain peak, they looked down.


    Below was a small town, though calling it small was rtive��it was the size of a mundane city.


    The town walls were low, sufficient to block wild beasts but utterly ineffective against demonic beasts.


    The town was popted with numerous residents, mostly ordinary humans, with a few innate-stage practitioners and even fewer at the golden core stage.


    However, it could no longer be considered a town. The four of them had arrived toote.


    While the town was not razed to the ground, most of the walls had copsed, and withiny countless bodies of the residents.


    The corpsesy strewn about, mangled and bloody, their deaths extremely gruesome, each with their chest cavities torn open and hearts missing. The air was thick with overwhelming resentment, the dead unable to rest in peace.


    In the city, the heart-diggers were not solitary but rather arge group, numbering nearly ten thousand.


    Nearly ten thousand riders, each mounted on a ck horse that seemed more like a demonic beast than an ordinary horse. Their eyes glowed red, and with a single step, they could leap onto the city walls with immense power.


    "Is that a Demon Nightmare?" Mr. Corpse''s pupils contracted.


    "You mean the horses?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes!" Mr. Corpse nodded.


    Each Demon Nightmare bore a shirtless, muscr man covered in various dark tattoos, wielding swords and knives. They looked every bit the bandits, exuding ferocity.


    The savages wielded their weapons, continuously ughtering the remaining citizens. Their sword skills were highly refined, each strike precisely extracting a heart, which they either stored in their storage bracelets or devoured on the spot, fresh blood staining their mouths, showcasing their malevolence.


    "Hahaha..."


    The savages, riding their Demon Nightmares,ughed maniacally, intoxicated by their ughter. The city''s residents stood no chance, falling to their merciless onught.


    The Demon Nightmares leapt from one building to another, carrying their savage riders as they perpetrated their evil deeds. The riders'' expressions remained twisted in the most diabolical frenzy.


    Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes. He noticed amonality among the savages��the tattoos on their foreheads. While their body tattoos varied, each had an identical ck character ''��'' on their forehead, emitting a ck aura that seemed to urge them towards further atrocity.


    "Hahaha..." "Ah..." "Ah..."


    The wildughter of the savages and the screams of the townsfolk echoed through the air, narrating a tale of brutal ughter and unending resentment. The terror on the faces of those whose hearts were taken was evident.


    "The Demon Nightmare Legion?" Chujie frowned.


    "You know of them?" Jian Ao asked.


    "Yes, young master. I''ve heard rumors. In the northeastern part of Shenzhou, there exists a mysterious faction known for nothing but destruction, ughter, and heart-extraction. Their mounts, the Demon Nightmares, are legendary horses, incredibly swift, capable of covering ten thousand miles in a day. The riders and their mounts function as one, enhancing theirbat power. Each member of the Demon Nightmare Legion is at least at the Golden Core stage, with many at the Nascent Soul stage. They appear and disappear unpredictably, and no one knows their base. They are numerous, at least fifty thousand strong. I never expected to encounter one of their squads here," Chujie exined.


    "Only known for destruction, ughter, and heart-extraction?" Jian Ao raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, and they are impervious to pain. Even if their arms or legs are severed, they continue their rampage without feeling a thing. Utterly malevolent," Chujie said, taking a deep breath.


    "They are also collecting souls," Mr. Corpse said, narrowing his eyes.


    "Collecting souls?"


    "Look at their leader in the center. What is he holding?" Mr. Corpse pointed to a savage standing motionless on a Demon Nightmare.


    In his hand, the leader held a green crystal, faintly glowing with a green light that flickered like a tiny star. The atmosphere around him felt much more sinister.


    Zhong Shan and the others watched closely. The leader seemed to be absorbing something into the green crystal. Upon closer inspection, faint, ghostly apparitions could be seen being drawn into the crystal.


    "Souls..." Zhong Shan whispered, realization dawning.


    "This is more than mere ughter. They are gathering souls for some dark purpose," Mr. Corpse said, his expression grave.


    "Whatever their purpose, we can''t let them continue," Zhong Shan dered, his eyes hardening.


    "Agreed. We need to stop them and find out more about their intentions," Jian Ao concurred, his hand resting on his sword.


    "Then let''s move," Zhong Shanmanded, and the four of them flew towards the fray, determined to confront the sinister Demon Nightmare Legion.


    The savage held an evil smile, staring intently at the green crystal in his hand, watching as it absorbed the souls from the surrounding corpses.


    "How do you know he''s collecting souls?" Chujie asked, frowning.


    "Because I''ve seen that thing before," Mr. Corpse replied.


    Chujie looked at Mr. Corpse with mild surprise.


    The ughter in the town was nearlyplete, except for the town center where a house stood with a g formation. Inside, a group of trembling people looked out in terror as the Demon Nightmare Legion attacked the formation. With more and more of the legion surrounding it, the formation wobbled, seemingly on the verge of breaking.


    Inside, the people huddled in fear, some even embracing each other. Once the formation fell, they would meet the same fate as those outside��ughtered and heart-extracted.


    "Mom, I''m scared..." "Stay away..."


    The sounds of fear and desperation filled the air within the formation.


    "Zhong Shan!" Jian Ao suddenly addressed Zhong Shan.


    "What?" Zhong Shan looked at Jian Ao in confusion.


    "Though we haven''t dueled, we can stillpete. Let''s see who can kill more of the ten thousand Demon Nightmare Legion members," Jian Ao suggested.


    "Kill them?" Zhong Shan nced downward.


    "Yes," Jian Ao nodded.


    "Alright!" Zhong Shan replied with a wicked smile.


    Based on Chujie''s earlier description, the Demon Nightmare Legion consisted of cultivators at the Golden Core stage or higher, with many at the Nascent Soul stage. Charging into such a legion was a task only madmen like Jian Ao and Zhong Shan would dare undertake.


    "Let''s go!" Zhong Shan shouted, soaring into the sky and drawing his massive de, Nightmare. Jian Ao followed closely, slightly surprised to see Zhong Shan using a de but said nothing.


    They flew from the mountain peak, descending into the town from opposite directions��Zhong Shan from the north and Jian Ao from the south��crashing into the town with a thunderous impact.


    Zhong Shannded near a savage riding a Demon Nightmare. The savage, noticing Zhong Shan''s sudden appearance, didn''t question how he got there. Instead, with a cruel grin, he urged his steed forward, weapon in hand.


    "sh!"


    Zhong Shan''s de cut through the Demon Nightmare, and with a palm strike, he twisted the savage''s head backward. Normally, this would be fatal, but the savage, seemingly unfazed by pain, straightened his head and charged at Zhong Shan again.


    "sh!"


    Zhong Shan''s de severed the savage''s left leg, but the man continued his assault, oblivious to the torrent of blood gushing from his stump.


    Zhong Shan was momentarily speechless. You''re too fearless!


    "sh!"


    With a reverse swing, Zhong Shan decapitated the savage, finally ending him. In that brief moment, numerous other savages noticed Zhong Shan and began to converge on him.


    Meanwhile, Jian Ao was equally embroiled inbat, his sword shing with deadly precision as he cut through the legion. The battle was fierce, and the two warriorspeted silently, each trying to outdo the other in their lethal prowess.


    As they fought, the green crystal in the leader''s hand continued to pulse, absorbing the souls of the fallen, adding an eerie glow to the already sinister scene.

 Chapter 392: Emerging Dominance

    <h4>Chapter 392: Emerging Dominance</h4>


    A horde of Demon Nightmare savages charged forward, but Zhong Shan showed no fear. His eyes glinted with a cold, fierce light as he gripped his de tightly.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan''s strikes were merciless, his de slicing cleanly through the Golden Core stage savages and their mounts. His vertical shes split the Demon Nightmares in two, leaving the savages who couldn''t dodge in time cut in half. For those who managed to leap away, Zhong Shan twisted his body, his footwork swift and precise, delivering an upward sh that cleaved them apart, blood spraying everywhere.


    Zhong Shan''s attacks were brutal and relentless. He met the savages'' cruelty with even greater ferocity. While a simple strike to a vital point could end a fight, Zhong Shan chose to decimate his foes with sheer violence, leaving no room for survival.


    sh, sh, sh!


    Wherever Zhong Shan went, blood and flesh flew through the air, and the ground became littered with corpses.


    The savages seemed unafraid, continuing to rush at him, though the Demon Nightmares showed signs of fear.


    Zhong Shan didn''t resort to his thunderous techniques, relying solely on his de, shing, shing, and shing!


    He moved like a whirlwind of death, his eyes turning blood-red, driven by a relentless urge to kill, kill, and kill!


    In his wake, corpses flew through the air, as if caught in a massive meat grinder, quickly and brutally reaping the savages'' lives.


    In contrast, Jian Ao''sbat style was much more elegant. With each sword stroke, a green lotus of sword energy would bloom, taking the lives of many savages in a single sweep. Seeing Zhong Shan''s ferocious battle from afar, Jian Ao couldn''t help but be taken aback. This man was a madman!


    On the distant mountain peak, Mr. Corpse and Chujie frowned as they observed the scene.


    "Zhong Shan? He''s harboring an immense rage," Chujie noted, taking a deep breath.


    "Oh?" Mr. Corpse turned to look at Chujie.


    "From his violent swordsmanship, it''s clear that his rage has been growing over the years. It''s even stronger than it was over twenty years ago. It''s remarkable that he''s been able to suppress it for so long," Chujie sighed.


    "Over twenty years ago?" Mr. Corpse frowned.


    "Yes. Back then, I could see it. Whether in his swordsmanship or de techniques, there was always a suppressed, overwhelming rage. This kind of invisible fury indicates a deep-seated obsession, likely born from an immense hatred��hatred so vast it''s beyond ourprehension. To suppress such violent hatred purely through willpower is not something an ordinary person can do. And in every battle, he chooses this brutally reckless fighting style to release his pent-up rage," Chujie exined.


    "How can you be so sure?" Mr. Corpse asked, frowning.


    "I used to be like that. But I wasn''t as obsessed as him; my hatred wasn''t as deep, and I didn''t have his formidable will to suppress it within me. While this rage can sometimes cloud his judgment, it more often enhances his dominance. Haven''t you noticed how Zhong Shan has be increasingly imposing? Perhaps, the young master has indeed met his strongest rival," Chujie said with a sudden smile.


    "Personal experience, no wonder you can see it," Mr. Corpse sighed softly.


    "Personal experience is part of it. The other part is that I know of someone who was also filled with such hatred and violent rage," Chujie said, taking a deep breath.


    "And what happened to him?" Mr. Corpse asked calmly.


    "He stirred up a bloodstorm across Shenzhou for his personal vendetta, annihted an entire race, and ughtered billions. His fury was unmatched," Chujie replied.


    As Zhong Shan continued his rampage through the town, his de cut down one savage after another. His movements were fluid yet savage, embodying a primal ferocity that seemed to grow stronger with each kill. Jian Ao, witnessing this from the other side of the town, acknowledged the sheer power and determination in Zhong Shan''s every strike.


    Both men carved a path of destruction through the Demon Nightmare Legion, their contest of speed and lethality painting the town red with blood. As the battle raged on, the sinister leader of the Demon Nightmare Legion continued to clutch the green crystal, its eerie glow growing stronger as it absorbed more souls.


    Despite the chaos and carnage, Zhong Shan''s mind was singrly focused on one thing: winning the contest and unleashing the full extent of his wrath.


    "Annihte an entire race?" Mr. Corpse remarked.


    "If you don''t believe me, you can research his background. His name is ''Xuanyuan,''" Chujie responded with a faint smile.


    "No need. I''ve encountered people like him before," Mr. Corpse shook his head.


    "You have?" Chujie looked at Mr. Corpse in surprise.


    Mr. Corpse nodded, saying no more. Both turned their gaze back to the battlefield.


    Down below, Zhong Shan was like a meat grinder, making the savage brutes appear almost civilized byparison. Yet these savages, with their ''��'' tattoos, seemed utterly fearless as they continued to charge at Zhong Shan, their eyes fixated on his heart.


    To the Golden Core stage savages, Zhong Shan was an imprable wall. Soon, it was the Nascent Soul stage savages'' turn.


    "Roar!"


    The Nascent Soul savages, riding their Demon Nightmares, brandished their des and charged at Zhong Shan. Thebined force of man and beast made their strikes immensely powerful, with massive ck energy-infused sword auras shing toward Zhong Shan.


    Nascent Soul stage? Zhong Shan, a fierce warrior, wouldn''t be deterred by opponents of the same level. His eyes widened as he unleashed a powerful strike, sending hundreds of immense sword auras crashing down on the battlefield like celestial des.


    "Boom!"


    A colossal explosion erupted, reducing a section of the town to ruins. The four Nascent Soul savages charging at Zhong Shan were obliterated instantly.


    Zhong Shan''s attack was overwhelming. Dissatisfied, he swung his de again, filling the sky with frenzied de shadows, turning the surroundings into a storm of deadly force.


    Where Zhong Shan passed, the savages weren''t merely killed��they were obliterated by his relentless de.


    Nascent Soul stage? Even formidable Consolidation stage opponents had fallen to Zhong Shan. These savages were no match.


    Zhong Shan''s target was the savage leader with the strange crystal. He charged directly at him.


    The savages seemed utterly fearless, almost mindlessly so, as if a primal instinct drove them to greedily eye Zhong Shan''s heart, undeterred by the sight of his explosive power.


    Zhong Shan always acted with purpose. Even in thispetition with Jian Ao, he aimed to capture the leader.


    On the northern side, Jian Ao''s killing was more graceful. After witnessing Zhong Shan''s brutal efficiency, he refrained from using his most powerful sword techniques, instead methodically dispatching his enemies with elegant swordsmanship.


    From a distance, Jian Ao''s sword aura, resembling a lotus, would pierce vital points with pinpoint precision. His swordsmanship was so exquisite that even the simplest strike became a marvel, achieving unimaginable results.


    Gradually, the two continued to ughter nearly half of the Demon Nightmare savages.


    Yet these savages were peculiar��they felt no fear, no pain, as if their emotions had been stripped away, leaving them with an unwavering resolve.


    Mr. Corpse and Chujie began to fly toward the battlefield, observing the unfolding carnage.


    As they approached, Chujie noticed Mr. Corpse''s unusual behavior��he was collecting corpses.


    Collecting corpses?


    Mr. Corpse sifted through the heaps of bodies, selecting suitable ones and storing them away. Chujie found this behavior baffling. Could it be that Mr. Corpse had a morbid fascination with corpses?


    Inside the g formation, the surviving townsfolk watched the scene outside. Initially relieved at their apparent rescue, their expressions turned to horror as they witnessed Zhong Shan''s brutal ughter. Some even retched at the sight of Demon Nightmares and savages being blown apart by Zhong Shan''s strikes.


    Zhong Shan''s method ofbat was so violent and explosive that even the people he saved recoiled in fear. His de left no room for survival, turning the battlefield into a gruesome spectacle.


    As Zhong Shan closed in on the savage leader, thetter finally took notice, his eyes narrowing with a mix of malevolence and anticipation. Zhong Shan''s approach signaled the end of the leader''s heinous deeds.


    In the midst of the battlefield''s eerie silence, a man and a woman stood far to the east of the town, seemingly drawn by the same overwhelming aura of resentment that had lured Zhong Shan. The pair stood halfway up a mountainside, frowning as they observed the center of the conflict.


    The man wore a blue robe, his deep blue hair cascading down his shoulders. With fair skin and finely chiseled features, he was incredibly handsome. His slightly enchanting peach blossom eyes made him the bane of countless young women, capable of making many hearts flutter with just a single nce.


    "Why are we hiding in these woods, Nian Youyou?" the man asked.


    The woman was none other than Nian Youyou, who had parted ways with Zhong Shan some time ago.


    "I saw something interesting," Nian Youyou said, her gaze fixed on Zhong Shan in the distance, a smile ying on her lips.


    "Oh?" The man looked towards the battlefield as well.


    "It is quite intriguing," he said, a wicked smile creeping across his face.


    "What do you think of the two men on the battlefield?" Nian Youyou turned to ask him.


    "The one with the de is a butcher, brutish and crude. The other, however, is quite interesting. His swordsmanship is rather delightful," the blue-haired man replied with a sly grin.


    "Oh? I find that butcher quite fascinating," Nian Youyou said, her eyes locked onto Zhong Shan with a yful smile.


    "You?" The blue-haired man looked at her with mild curiosity.


    "Yes, how about we split them upter? You follow the one with the sword, and I''ll follow the butcher?" Nian Youyou suggested, twirling a whip in her hand.


    "You want us to separate?" The blue-haired man looked slightly surprised.


    "What? Are you nning to pursue me instead of Bei Qingsi?" Nian Youyou teased.


    The blue-haired man stepped back slightly, saying, "Others might not know you as well as I do, but I''m fully aware of who you are��a ''Blood Widow Queen.'' I''d rather not be your prey!"


    "Senior Brother, you''re so heartless!" Nian Youyou said, feigning a pitiful expression.


    With a wicked smile, the blue-haired man replied, "If it weren''t for Bei Qingsi, I might have considered it. Thorny roses are indeed more vorful, but I''m past seeking mere thrills. I have greater goals. There''s still an icy mountain in the Longevity Realm waiting for me to melt."


    "Bei Qingsi? Well, good luck with that, Senior Brother. But you really shouldn''t underestimate that ''butcher,''" Nian Youyou said, her tone teasing.


    Indeed, the blue-haired man underestimated Zhong Shan based solely on appearances. Little did he know that the woman he relentlessly pursued, Bei Qingsi, already had someone in her heart, and that person was the very ''butcher'' he dismissed.


    The blue-haired man sensed there was more to Nian Youyou''s words, but he couldn''t grasp the full meaning. He could only nce at Nian Youyou and then cast a deeper look at Zhong Shan in the distance.


    Zhong Shan, with his overwhelming aura of violence, was drenched in blood and showed no concern for cleanliness. To the blue-haired man, Zhong Shan was indeed crude and brutish. He cast a cold nce at Zhong Shan before turning his attention back to Jian Ao.

 Chapter 393: Dominance

    <h4>Chapter 393: Dominance</h4>


    Amidst the battlefield, Zhong Shan''s presence was like a meat grinder, with blood and flesh flying everywhere. In any other situation, his foes would have fled in terror, but the Demon Nightmare Legion was peculiarly drawn to violence. The more blood was shed, the more excited they became.


    After a while, Zhong Shan felt his inner rage subside, and the relentless ughter started to lose its appeal. His instincts and purpose drove him closer to the savage leader.


    Moving like a force of nature, Zhong Shan carved a path directly toward the sinister leader, who seemed far more rational than the other savages. Holding a green crystal in one hand, absorbing the souls around him, the leader reached into his waist with the other hand, pulling out a small ck pouch. With a flick of his wrist, the pouch opened, releasing countless ck dots that quickly grew into a swarm of bats.


    The bloodthirsty bats filled the sky, their wings creating a deafening roar as they swarmed, circling the ck pouch before the leader directed them towards Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s protective aura kept the bats at bay, but their sheer numbers and ultrasonic waves disrupted his vision and spiritual senses.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan let out a cold snort.


    "Boom!"


    Thunderclouds gathered above Zhong Shan, and with his snort, lightning shed within them. Thunderbolts rained down around him, disintegrating the bats upon contact. The lightning was basic, but it was enough to deal with the low-level bats.


    As the endless bolts of lightning struck, weaker savages were also obliterated, while stronger ones struggled against the electrical onught. Yet, Zhong Shan''s de continued its deadly dance, sending more blood and bodies flying.


    Seeing the sky filled with lightning, Jian Ao smiled slightly and stepped forward.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    In several ces on the battlefield, sword lotuses sprouted from the ground, opening to reap the lives of many savages. Though the savages showed no fear of death, the leader began to feel dread. His eyes widened in panic as he urged his Demon Nightmare to turn and flee.


    But Zhong Shan was already too close. From within the thunderclouds, a massive lightning dragon descended.


    "Roar!"


    The colossal thunder dragon, under Zhong Shan''s control, crashed down towards the leader.


    "Boom!"


    Amidst the blinding lightning, the leader barely evaded the dragon''s full force, but his mount was gravely injured.


    Seizing the moment, Zhong Shan closed in on the leader, his de cutting through the air with lethal intent. The leader, now desperate, swung his weapon in a futile attempt to defend himself, but Zhong Shan''s power was overwhelming.


    With a final, powerful strike, Zhong Shan''s de cleaved through the leader''s defenses, ending his life in a spray of blood. The green crystal fell from the leader''s grasp, its sinister glow fading as it hit the ground.


    As the leader fell, the remaining savages faltered, their previously unwavering resolve shaken. The presence of their fallen leader seemed to momentarily snap them out of their frenzied state, and they began to scatter.


    Jian Ao, witnessing Zhong Shan''s decisive victory, nodded in approval. Together, they had decimated the Demon Nightmare Legion, turning the tide of the battle with their sheer might.


    Nian Youyou and the blue-haired man continued to observe from their vantage point. The blue-haired man, initially dismissive of Zhong Shan, now watched him with a newfound respect.


    "Interesting," the blue-haired man murmured, his previous disdain reced with a hint of intrigue.


    "See, I told you he was worth watching," Nian Youyou said, a sly smile on her lips.


    The blue-haired man nodded, acknowledging her point. "Indeed. Perhaps I underestimated him."


    Nian Youyou''s eyes twinkled with amusement. "He''s much more than he appears to be. But don''t worry, you''ll have your chance to see just how formidable he really is."


    As the dust settled on the battlefield, Zhong Shan stood victorious, his presence radiating dominance and strength. The once-thriving town was now a scene of chaos and destruction, but the threat of the Demon Nightmare Legion had been decisively eliminated.


    "Roar!"


    Zhong Shan flew forward, delivering a powerful vertical sh with his de.


    <strong>Heaven''s sh! Wind Splitter!</strong>


    As Zhong Shan unleashed his ultimate move, all the thunderclouds in the sky converged into a massive lightning strike that followed his de''s path, crashing down on the leader.


    "Boom!"


    There was no suspense. Before the might of Zhong Shan, the leader didn''t even have time to scream before being sted into fragments.


    The endless swarm of bloodthirsty bats, at the moment of the leader''s death, seemed to receive amand and rushed back into the pouch.


    With a swift movement, Zhong Shan grabbed both the pouch and the green crystal.


    Not far away, Jian Ao noticed Zhong Shan ceasing his fight and smiled slightly. He thrust his sword into the ground.


    "Boom!"


    From the earth, thousands of massive sword energies erupted, cutting down the remaining hundreds of Demon Nightmare savages. They were all killed in an instant.


    "What a powerful sword intent! Nascent Soul stage? Could such insight be achieved at the Nascent Soul stage?" the blue-haired man in the distance frowned.


    "Truly dominant!" Nian Youyoumented softly.


    "Dominant?" The blue-haired man looked at Nian Youyou strangely.


    "That puppet bat was interesting," Nian Youyou ignored the blue-haired man and continued to frown.


    With the Demon Nightmare Legion entirely eradicated, Zhong Shan took a deep breath, calming the rage within him and returning to his usualposed demeanor.


    Jian Ao did not mention theirpetition again; neither of them cared about winning or losing at this point.


    Zhong Shan examined the ck pouch and the green crystal in his hands. Neither could be stored in a storage bracelet. What were they? Ninth-grade magical treasures? Unlikely��ninth-grade magical treasures wouldn''t have such limited power.


    "What kind of treasure is this? It can store living creatures? Were those real bats?" Chujie asked, astonished as he looked at the pouch in Zhong Shan''s hand.


    Chujie didn''t recognize it, nor did Jian Ao, but Mr. Corpse''s eyes narrowed as if he knew, yet he pretended not to.


    Though the pouch didn''t seem particrly powerful, Zhong Shan recognized its uniqueness and quickly stored both the pouch and the green crystal inside his robe.


    The town was saved. Inside the central g formation, the townspeople were still filled with fear. These four people seemed even more terrifying than the Demon Nightmare Legion. Would they kill us?


    The townspeople trembled, except for a yellow-robed monk who stepped out of the building. With a wave of his hand, the protective g formation dissolved into dozens of small gs, which the monk collected.


    "Master...," the townspeople called out in fear.


    The monk sped his hands together in a gesture of calm and gratitude and approached Zhong Shan and hispanions.


    "Thank you for saving us. I am Sekong, and I am deeply grateful," the yellow-robed monk said, ncing briefly at Zhong Shan''s chest.


    "Nascent Soul stage? There''s a Nascent Soul stage monk in this town?" Chujie frowned.


    "I am a monk from Kongfeng Temple within the Buddha-Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains. I happened to pass by this ce and encountered the Demon Nightmare Legion. Without your intervention, I might have been killed and had my heart taken. Thank you again!" Sekong monk bowed deeply to Zhong Shan and the others.


    "The Buddha-Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains?" Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed slightly.


    Sekong nodded, "Yes, we monks often travel to offer aid where we can. Today, fate brought me here, and I owe my life to your valor."


    Zhong Shan nodded in acknowledgment. "We are also heading towards the Buddha-Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains. Can you guide us?"


    Sekong looked at Zhong Shan, then at the others. "I would be honored to guide you. The mountains are vast and treacherous, but with your strength, I believe we can reach our destination safely."


    Zhong Shan agreed, "Very well. Lead the way."


    Sekong bowed again, "Follow me."


    As they prepared to set off, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but feel a lingering curiosity about the items he had collected. The mysteries of the ck pouch and the green crystal would have to wait, for now, their journey continued towards the unknown dangers and secrets of the Buddha-Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains.


    "Indeed, are you all nning to enter the Buddha-Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains?" Monk Sekong asked, looking at the four of them.


    "Do you know the location of the Pure Land?" Jian Ao inquired.


    "The Pure Land?" Monk Sekong was slightly surprised but quickly nodded. "Of course. My master was fortunate enough to be chosen by the Pure Land. Although I haven''t entered it myself, I''ve apanied my master nearby and know the way."


    "Great, he knows the way," Jian Ao said to Zhong Shan with a smile.


    Sekong''s expression brightened as he earnestly offered, "If you wish to go to the Pure Land, allow me to guide you. It would also give me a chance to repay the favor of saving my life."


    "Zhong Shan, in that case, I won''t be apanying you further. Be careful on your journey," Jian Ao said to Zhong Shan.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan replied sincerely.


    "We won''t be going further. You take them to the Pure Land," Jian Ao instructed Monk Sekong.


    "Uh?" Sekong was momentarily confused, but seeing Jian Ao gesture towards Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse, he quickly nodded and smiled.


    "Until we meet again," Jian Ao said.


    "We surely will!" Zhong Shan nodded and smiled.


    With that, Jian Ao and Chujie soared into the sky and disappeared from Zhong Shan''s sight.


    In the distance, the townspeople still didn''t dare toe out.


    "Please, follow me," Sekong said with a smile.


    "Please," Zhong Shan nodded. He and Mr. Corpse exchanged nces and then followed Sekong northward.


    In a distant forest, Nian Youyou and the blue-haired man observed.


    "Alright, we don''t need to intervene anymore. You pursue yours, I''ll pursue mine," Nian Youyou said, and the two quickly dispersed.


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse followed Sekong, with Nian Youyou trailing from a distance. Sekong led them through the clouds, heading towards the Buddha-Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains. Along the way, Sekong appeared very enthusiastic, continuously asking about Zhong Shan''s and Mr. Corpse''s backgrounds. However, they only revealed their names and nothing more, and Sekong wisely refrained from pressing further.


    After about two and a half days of travel, Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse suddenly halted, their pupils contracting.


    "Haha, we are now entering the Buddha-Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains. Here, aside from Buddhist practitioners, everyone''s cultivation is suppressed to about seventy percent of their full strength, while Buddhist practitioners receive a boost in power," Sekong exined with a smile.


    Zhong Shan looked around curiously. There was nothing visibly different, yet an inexplicable force seemed to be suppressing him.


    "Is it like this throughout the entire Buddha-Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It is," Sekong confirmed.


    "Oh? Is there a height limit to this effect?" Zhong Shan looked up, recalling how the white fog surrounding the ghost pce once had a height limit.


    "This power descends from the heavens. It naturally reaches the sky and is boundless," Sekong exined.


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes, and the red lotus in the center of his forehead spun slightly. Suddenly, he entered a state of serenity, and the surroundings became extremely quiet. Then, Zhong Shan faintly heard a sound.


    "Om Mani Padme Hum."

 Chapter 394: Divine Imprint

    <h4>Chapter 394: Divine Imprint</h4>


    "Here we are, this is Kongfeng Temple," Monk Sekong said, pointing to a mist-covered area ahead.


    The mist-covered area was not veryrge. Through the fog, one could faintly see a mountain peak, the entire area spanning only about five kilometers in diameter. It was surprisingly smallpared to the vastness of the Eastern Prefecture of the ancient Holy Capital.


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse exchanged curious nces.


    Since entering the Buddha-Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains five days ago, Zhong Shan had been hearing the six-syble mantra of Buddhism through his Red Luan Pink Lotus. The mantra seemed to echo faintly from all directions within the mountains, a sound only perceptible to him in his enlightened state. He kept this strange urrence to himself, pondering its meaning.


    "Senior brother, we have guests!" Sekong called out cheerfully towards the formation ahead. His face lit up with joy.


    At Sekong''s shout, the foggy formation suddenly radiated a golden light, a majestic disy of Buddhist splendor.


    The mist gradually dissipated, revealing the scene of Kongfeng Temple.


    The main hall of Kongfeng Temple was built atop a mountain peak, with various pces and buildings constructed on the ttened areas of the mountain. At the base, there were numerous buildings where monks in yellow robes busied themselves with their tasks.


    From the topmost hall, three yellow-robed monks flew down, dressed simrly to Sekong.


    "Little monks Sejie, Sechen, and Sechi greet the two fellow Daoists," the three monks greeted respectfully.


    "Greetings to the three masters," Zhong Shan responded, eyeing them curiously.


    "These two are my saviors. When I was besieged by the Demon Nightmare Legion, they saved me and annihted the entire legion. Tomorrow, I n to take them to the Pure Land, but today, let them stay in our master''s Zen courtyard as a token of gratitude," Sekong exined.


    "Amitabha," the three monks nodded, looking at Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse with interest.


    "Please, follow me," Sekong said warmly, leading the way.


    "Kongfeng Temple is small, and its formations are simple. We have to open the formation to allow people in," Sekong exined as he guided them.


    "No problem," Zhong Shan replied with a slight smile.


    Soon, the four monks led Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse to a very clean Zen courtyard halfway up the mountain.


    The three senior monks excused themselves, leaving Sekong to enthusiastically guide Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse around the courtyard, showing them their rooms and providing information about the Buddha-Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains.


    "We haven''t rested in a long time. I''m quite tired," Zhong Shan interrupted Sekong''s enthusiastic introduction.


    "There''s a hot spring in the backyard. Please rest, and I wille by in the evening," Sekong suggested.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan replied politely.


    Sekong slowly retreated. Once he had left the courtyard, Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Mr. Corpse, there''s a sleeping incense here. Be cautious," Zhong Shan said, raising an eyebrow.


    "Yes," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    The two exchanged serious looks.


    "When did you notice?" Mr. Corpse asked Zhong Shan.


    "I suspected earlier but couldn''t be sure. It turns out Sekong indeed has ill intentions," Zhong Shan replied, taking a deep breath.


    "Oh?" Mr. Corpse looked at Zhong Shan, intrigued.


    "Their sect is too small for someone of Sekong''s strength. Even a minor sect would have more significant grounds if it housed Nascent Soul stage monks and their elusive master. The understated reactions of his three senior brothers were also suspicious. And why was Sekong in that town without any apparent purpose? Was he waiting specifically to lead us to the Pure Land? All these doubts were confirmed when I smelled the sleeping incense in the courtyard. Sekong definitely harbors ill intentions," Zhong Shan exined coldly.


    "We need to be on guard," Mr. Corpse said, nodding in agreement.


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse then set about ensuring their defenses, preparing for any potential deceit that mighte from their seemingly gracious host.


    "This is ''Deep Sea Death Mist,'' colorless and odorless. How did you detect it?" Mr. Corpse asked, looking at Zhong Shan in confusion.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan looked at Mr. Corpse in surprise.


    He had detected the sleeping incense thanks to the Red Luan Pink Lotus. How did Mr. Corpse know about it, and even its name?


    "How you knew is how I knew," Zhong Shan replied with a smile, not intending to reveal the source of his knowledge or pry into how Mr. Corpse knew about it.


    Mr. Corpse smiled and shook his head, saying no more.


    "It seems they have their eyes on the two treasures you''re carrying," Mr. Corpse said, pulling out the green crystal and the small pouch from his robe.


    "Do you recognize these?" Zhong Shan asked, staring at Mr. Corpse.


    "I''ve seen them before," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    "Oh?"


    "The green crystal is called a Soul Search Stone. It can store souls for a thousand days," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "A thousand days?"


    "Yes, a thousand days. Normally, souls cannot stay in the living world for long due to the excessive yang energy, which harms them. This Soul Search Stone can shield them from yang energy, allowing them to persist longer. That''s why it can''t be stored in a storage bracelet when it''s holding souls," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "What''s the purpose of storing souls?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "To craft some sinister magical artifacts, such as the ''Hundred Ghosts Night Banquet Diagram'' or the ''Ten Thousand Ghosts Devouring Bone Banner''," Mr. Corpse replied.


    At the mention of the banner, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, and a wave of killing intent emanated from him, causing Mr. Corpse to feel puzzled.


    "You can''t store it in a storage bracelet now, but after a thousand days, the souls will convert into energy within the Soul Search Stone, making it storable," Mr. Corpse added.


    "How does it store souls?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "As long as it''s ced within five kilometers of the souls, they will instinctively move toward it, seeking refuge from the yang energy. However, extracting the souls from within requires a specific method," Mr. Corpse exined.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath, furrowing his brows.


    "As for this pouch, I can''t tell you much about it. However, you should avoid using it, especially in front of others. It''s a very sensitive item," Mr. Corpse said, shaking his head. The pouch''s origins seemed tied to secrets Mr. Corpse didn''t want to disclose.


    Surprised, Zhong Shan nodded and tucked the items back into his robe.


    "What should we do now?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "Sekong must be interested in these items; otherwise, he wouldn''t have gone through such lengths to bring us here. We can''t stay here long. We need to find a way to escape," Zhong Shan contemted.


    "The Zen courtyard is surrounded by a formation. I can''t extend my spiritual senses beyond it," Mr. Corpse noted with a wry smile.


    "Yes, the formation activated when we arrived. Initially, I thought it was to maintain the privacy of the Zen courtyard, but now it seems this isn''t Sekong''s master''s courtyard but a trap," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse assessed their surroundings, realizing the urgency of their situation. The Zen courtyard''s seemingly serene environment masked its true purpose as a cage.


    "We need to disrupt this formation," Zhong Shan said, eyes narrowing as he formted a n.


    "Agreed. If we can create a diversion or find a weak spot, we might be able to break through," Mr. Corpse added.


    The two men began exploring the courtyard, seeking any anomalies or weaknesses in the formation. They moved quietly, knowing they had to act swiftly and decisively. As they examined the courtyard''s boundaries, Zhong Shan''s mind raced with possibilities.


    Their immediate goal was clear: escape this treacherous trap and reach the Pure Land, all while safeguarding the treasures they carried and uncovering the deeper motives behind Sekong''s seemingly benevolent facade.


    "Zhong Shan! Mr. Corpse!"


    Two voices called from outside.


    "It''s Sekong. He''sing to check on the sleeping incense''s effect so soon?"


    "Let''s wait for him toe in! We''ll seize the opportunity to escape this prison!"


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse prepared themselves for action.


    The door to the Zen courtyard creaked open slowly.


    "Bang!"


    Zhong Shan swung his de with force, shing down hard as he flew out the door.


    It was Sekong who had entered, thinking Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse were unconscious. To his surprise, not only were they awake, but they were also ready to escape the moment he opened the door.


    Sekong and Zhong Shan both flew out, with Sekong being caught off guard by the sudden attack. As Sekong tumbled through the air, he let out a loud roar, emitting a surge of ck energy that halted his fall. He twisted his head to re at Zhong Shan with a vicious expression.


    Zhong Shan now saw clearly that Sekong''s forehead bore a ck mark, exuding dark energy and emitting a sinister glow.


    A ''��'' character!


    Sekong had a ''��'' character on his forehead? And all around, the other monks, who had once seemed solemn, now had fierce expressions and eyes glowing green. Each of them also bore a ''��'' character on their foreheads, emitting the same dark energy.


    The Demon Nightmare Legion? Every member of the Demon Nightmare Legion had a ''��'' character on their foreheads.


    Zhong Shan was taken aback. Sekong and these monks were part of the Demon Nightmare Legion? No, it seemed like all these ''monks'' were with the Demon Nightmare Legion.


    Behind him, the Zen courtyard appeared to be enveloped in another formation, trapping Mr. Corpse inside. From the doorway, Mr. Corpse could see the outside, and his expression mirrored Zhong Shan''s surprise upon seeing the ''��'' characters on the monks'' foreheads.


    Initially, they had thought Sekong was simply after their treasures, but now it seemed far moreplex.


    "How are you still conscious?" Sekong asked coldly.


    "Are you all with the Demon Nightmare Legion?" Zhong Shan asked gravely.


    He had noticed the strange behavior of the Demon Nightmare Legion members before, but this new revtion was far more disturbing. An organized ughter with internal coborators?


    "Hand over the ''Bat Pouch'' and the ''Soul Search Stone''," Sekong demanded coldly.


    "What? Sekong, you''re merely at the Nascent Soul stage. You saw what happened on the battlefield. Do you want to be cut to pieces by my de? Even if you all attacked me, it wouldn''t be enough," Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    "Those ''fools'' couldn''t activate their ''Divine Imprint,'' so they could only act mindlessly. But those who can activate the Divine Imprint can increase their power by an entire realm. I now have the strength of the Integration stage. Everyone here can activate the Divine Imprint. The Bat Pouch and Soul Search Stone cannot be exposed to the outside world; they must be reimed!" Sekong sneered.


    Divine Imprint? Zhong Shan nced at the ''��'' character on Sekong''s forehead.


    Sekong''s words made Zhong Shan realize the true extent of the danger they were in. These ''monks'' were not just after the treasures; they were part of a more sinister plot.


    Zhong Shan tightened his grip on his de, readying himself for the impending confrontation. The stakes had risen, and the challenge before him was far more formidable than he had initially thought.

 Chapter 395: Mysterious Organization

    <h4>Chapter 395: Mysterious Organization</h4>


    "Since you''ve harbored thoughts of killing me, there''s no need for me to hold back against you."


    With these words, Zhong Shan initiated his attack.


    Heavenly Demon Refinement Technique, Fifth Level! Heaven''s sh! Wind Splitter!


    "Hmph!" Sekong snorted coldly.


    Sekong had seen Zhong Shan''s previous attacks and estimated his strength to be at most the peak of the Nascent Soul stage. Though Zhong Shan''s methods were extremely violent, the gap in their realms was insurmountable.


    Sekong''s senior brother, Sejie, stepped forward to meet Zhong Shan, his eyes fierce, and their des shed.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan''s powerful strike instantly cut Sejie and his de in half, the force of the blow even slicing off a chunk of a nearby mountain.


    "Boom!"


    Turning his de, Zhong Shan struck the barrier confining Mr. Corpse, but the barrier was too strong. Though the impact created a ripple, it did not break.


    "You weren''t giving it your all before?" Sekong eximed in shock.


    Zhong Shan turned his head, a fierce look in his eyes. "Kill them all!" Sekong shouted.


    About three hundred monks from the temple rushed towards Zhong Shan from all directions.


    Each monk had a ''��'' character on their forehead, emitting a faint ck aura. Their eyes bulged with ferocity as they wielded their des.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Zhong Shan, relentless in his fury, shed through the monks. In his full power, these monks were no match for him. He had previously defeated true Integration stage experts, even those who had used secret techniques to enhance their strength. Now, Zhong Shan was even more powerful.


    Unless faced with an Emperor Extreme expert, few could challenge Zhong Shan. Exceptionally talented individuals like Jian Ao or Jian Hong, despite being in the same realm, could not be judged by ordinary standards.


    As Zhong Shan shed with the three hundred monks, Sekong began to retreat rapidly. He had witnessed Zhong Shan''s ferocity a few days earlier and felt an underlying fear. Though he relied on the divine imprint on his forehead, which boosted his strength to the Integration stage, to confront Zhong Shan, he had also used the sleeping incense and rallied all the monks.


    But now it was clear things were not as they seemed. Zhong Shan hadn''t been fighting at full strength before. Just now, Sejie, though slightly weaker than Sekong, was still at the early Integration stage with the divine imprint activated, yet he was cut down with a single stroke by Zhong Shan.


    "Boom!"


    As Zhong Shan killed thest monk, the mountain trembled from his destructive force. With a final powerful sh, the mountain copsed, and the barrier around Mr. Corpse''s Zen courtyard shattered, freeing both of them.


    Kongfeng Templey in ruins. Sekong had escaped, hovering outside the temple''s grand formation.


    Zhong Shan stood, his de resting on his shoulder, eyes cold as he watched Sekong, who appeared uncertain and fearful. The grand formation surrounding the mountain gave Sekong a sense of security.


    Such situations had urred before, but never had anyone faced someone like Zhong Shan. His hidden strength was terrifying.


    Kongfeng Temple, now a pile of rubble, had its protective cloud formation dissipated, leaving only a golden barrier covering the original area.


    Heaven''s sh! Wind Splitter!


    Zhong Shan, undeterred, prepared to unleash another powerful attack against Sekong and the barrier, determined to break through and end the threat once and for all.


    Sekong, seeing Zhong Shan''s relentless approach, felt a chill of fear run down his spine. He realized that Zhong Shan''s strength and determination were far beyond what he had anticipated. As the golden barrier trembled under the might of Zhong Shan''s attack, Sekong''s confidence wavered.


    Realizing he was outmatched, Sekong decided to change tactics. "Zhong Shan, wait!" he shouted, hoping to stall for time. "There''s more to this than you understand. We are part of a greater organization, one that spans across realms. If you kill me, you will incur the wrath of powers far beyond yourprehension."


    Zhong Shan paused for a moment, his eyes narrowing. "Speak quickly. Your life depends on it."


    Sekong, seeing a glimmer of hope, began to exin, "We are part of the Divine Shadow Sect, a ndestine organization that operates within the shadows of various realms. Our mission is to gather powerful artifacts and souls to fuel our ultimate goal��dominion over the realms. The Soul Search Stone and the Bat Pouch you possess are crucial to our ns."


    Zhong Shan''s grip tightened on his de. "And why should I care about your organization''s goals? You''ve attacked me, and now you expect mercy?"


    Sekong desperately continued, "If you join us, you will gain ess to unparalleled power and resources. The Divine Shadow Sect can make you stronger than you ever imagined. Think about it, Zhong Shan. With your strength and our backing, you could be invincible."


    Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with anger. "I do not seek power through deceit and treachery. Your sect''s goals mean nothing to me."


    With that, Zhong Shan unleashed his final attack.


    Heaven''s sh! Wind Splitter!


    The immense power of the strike shattered the golden barrier, and Sekong''s screams echoed as he was obliterated by the overwhelming force.


    As the dust settled, Mr. Corpse joined Zhong Shan, both of them surveying the ruins of Kongfeng Temple.


    "This Divine Shadow Sect sounds like a significant threat," Mr. Corpse remarked.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan replied. "We need to remain vignt. This may just be the beginning."


    With their enemies vanquished and the temple in ruins, Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse prepared to continue their journey, now with the added knowledge of a mysterious and powerful organization lurking in the shadows.


    Zhong Shan raised his de toward the heavens and shed.


    "Boom~~~~~~"


    The Mountain Guardian Array merely rippled slightly before stabilizing, effectively isting the inside from the outside. Zhong Shan''s powerful strike had no effect whatsoever.


    "Sekong, open the Mountain Guardian Array. I won''t pursue today''s matter further," Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    Seeing that Zhong Shan couldn''t break the array, Sekong regained hisposure, standing a short distance away from the array. With a cold expression, he looked at the two people inside and said, "Not pursue further? You killed so many of us, and you think a simple ''won''t pursue further'' will suffice? Hmph, my master will be back soon. You can just wait for your doom!"


    As he spoke, the ''��'' character divine mark on Sekong''s forehead gradually dimmed until it disappeared.


    From afar, Nian Youyou, holding a whip, stood midway up a mountain, looking at Zhong Shan with slight amusement.


    "This is a Twenty-Four Mountain Array. To break it, you need to attack the Shen, Zi, Wei, and Kun positions in sequence!" Mr. Corpse suddenly advised Zhong Shan.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan nced at Mr. Corpse, then coldly looked at Sekong.


    Sekong didn''t hear Mr. Corpse''s words. Seeing Zhong Shan''s gaze, he sneered coldly.


    Zhong Shan raised his de, and four massive de auras shot toward four different positions in session.


    "Boom~~~~~~ Boom~~~~~~ Boom~~~~~~ Boom~~~~~~"


    With four tremendous explosions, the yellow barrier shattered like broken ss and then dissipated into a cloud of smoke in midair.


    The moment Zhong Shan broke the Mountain Guardian Array, Sekong''s eyes widened in terror. Was Zhong Shan his nemesis? How could he be so lucky to even know the secret of this array?


    "Run?" Zhong Shan''s figure blurred, appearing in front of Sekong with the fastest speed, and shed down fiercely.


    "Boom~~~~~~"


    Sekong met the blow with his own de, but Zhong Shan''s strength was overwhelming. With one strike, Sekong was sted into the ground like a cannonball, creating a huge crater upon impact.


    Even when he activated his divine mark again, Sekong was still no match for Zhong Shan. He was too terrifying.


    Hovering in midair, Zhong Shan coldly nced at Sekong in the pit and shed down again.


    Heavenly Rule! Wind Tear!


    Thunder Foundation! Ten Thousand Thunder Chase!


    "Boom~~~~~~"


    Endless lightning followed this Wind Tear, fiercely shing at Sekong.


    The immense power and overwhelming momentum left Sekong with no chance to escape.


    "No~~~~~~" Sekong screamed in terror.


    "Boom~~~~~~"


    Zhong Shan''s powerful strike exploded in midair.


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse quickly assumed a defensive stance. Suddenly, beside Sekong, appeared another man in a yellow robe. His yellow eyebrows and the same ck ''��'' character on his forehead revealed his identity. It was he who had blocked Zhong Shan''s powerful strike.


    "Master, Master, you''re finally back!" Sekong shouted in joy.


    "What happened?" the man in the yellow robe asked in a deep voice.


    "It''s him. He is Zhong Shan. He killed the master''s ten thousand Demon Phantom Army, took the Soul Searching Stone and Bat Bag. I lured him to this stronghold to ambush him, but, but he killed all of us," Sekong said in fear.


    "Oh?" the yellow-browed man responded coldly.


    "Master, you must be cautious. This Zhong Shan is incredibly sinister!" Sekong said with lingering fear.


    The yellow-browed man cast a cold nce at Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse.


    Seeing this sudden arrival, Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse realized the situation had be even more grave. To so effortlessly block Zhong Shan''s attack, this man''s strength was undoubtedly formidable.


    "Just these two at the Nascent Soul stage? They killed all of our people?" The yellow-browed man looked at Sekong in disbelief.


    "Yes, Master, please be careful. Do not underestimate him," Sekong said fearfully.


    Zhong Shan''s heart tightened. ''Just these two at the Nascent Soul stage.'' The yellow-browed man had instantly seen through his and Mr. Corpse''s cultivation levels, which meant he was at least two realms higher��Imperial Extremity Realm?


    What should he do? The Red Lotus of Affection had not changed color, indicating that he was safe, likely because of the ck Jade Talisman. But what about Mr. Corpse? The ck Jade Talisman required a sealed environment to be effective. In this open space, it could protect him but not Mr. Corpse. He had gone through so much trouble to enlist Mr. Corpse''s help; he couldn''t let him die here.


    Zhong Shan looked at the yellow-browed man opposite him with extreme solemnity. This was a serious problem.


    Mr. Corpse narrowed his eyes, a hint of coldness in them. Inside his long sleeve, his right hand''s index and middle fingers were bent, seemingly preparing some sort of spell.


    Zhong Shan positioned himself in front of Mr. Corpse, certain that he would be safe. His n was to engage the yellow-browed man himself.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s unchanged expression and unwavering battle intent, the yellow-browed man smirked coldly. Sekong, however, shivered, his eyes filled with uncertainty as if he were making some critical decision.


    "Master, they are too sinister. I will go fetch Uncle-Master for help," Sekong quickly said.


    "Rubbish! Just two at the Nascent Soul stage, and you think I can''t handle them?" the yellow-browed man retorted angrily.


    "Master, the master''s great n is of utmost importance. There can''t be any more mishaps. The Soul Searching Stone and Bat Bag are with Zhong Shan. To ensure the master''s n goes smoothly, I must defy you this once. Please forgive me," Sekong said.


    Without waiting for a response, Sekong took off into the sky. He no longer wanted to stay here, even with his master''s power. The memory of Zhong Shan''s massacre a few days ago haunted him, filling him with a dreadful premonition. He would rather defy his master than stay. After all, to Sekong, this master was merely a superior who had taught him some cultivation techniques, not someone he felt any deep respect or affection for.


    Seeing Sekong''s panicked flight, the yellow-browed man looked on coldly.


    "Hmph," he snorted disdainfully before turning his gaze back to the two Nascent Soul cultivators before him.


    "You go. I''ll hold him off!" Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    "Go? After killing so many of my subordinates, no one is leaving! Hmph!" the yellow-browed man said coldly.


    "Boom~~~~"


    With a cold snort, the surrounding ruins erupted as countless fragments of stone shot into the sky, quickly floating around the three of them. The floating stones formed a swirling barrier, blocking Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse''s escape routes.

 Chapter 396: Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss

    <h4>Chapter 396: Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss</h4>


    The yellow-browed man''s aura erupted furiously, pressing down on Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse. The immense pressure felt like a tidal wave, making their movements incredibly difficult, as if a massive boulder weighed them down.


    Even with the Heavenly Demon Body Refining Technique, Zhong Shan found it excruciatingly hard to lift his arm.


    The yellow-browed man''s eyes shed with cruelty as he said, "Sinister? Show me how sinister you can be!"


    "If you have the guts, kill me with one strike. Words are meaningless," Zhong Shan red at the yellow-browed man, provoking him intentionally. Zhong Shan wanted to incite an attack to trigger the ck Jade Talisman within him, which would protect him in a life-threatening situation.


    "Hmph!" The yellow-browed man snorted coldly. He was already intent on killing them, and since Zhong Shan was courting death, he would oblige. The man flipped his hand, and a colossal golden palm materialized, exuding a vast and overwhelming aura.


    As the golden palm bore down, Zhong Shan felt the terror of its power. It contained the force of rules��rules of lightning among them, exining its immense power. Most Imperial Extremity Realm cultivators could wield such an attack.


    The enormous golden palm descended. For an ordinary Nascent Soul or even a Body Fusion stage cultivator, this strike would be fatal. An Imperial Extremity Realm cultivator could already perceive the existence of rules, making their attacks boundlessly powerful.


    Zhong Shan, fearless, stared angrily. Behind him, Mr. Corpse was moved by Zhong Shan''s act of shielding him. Taking a deep breath, he prepared a secret technique, but as the golden palm approached within five zhang, he halted his spell. The golden palm dissipated.


    "Ssshhh��"


    A dull sound rang out.


    "Boom��"


    All the floating rubble around them fell to the ground, raising a cloud of dust.


    A section of a whip suddenly protruded from the yellow-browed man''s forehead, his head pierced through. Blood mixed with brain matter and fragments of bone spurted out, blocked by the whip.


    The yellow-browed man was dead, his hand still poised to strike Zhong Shan. Behind him, a ten-meter-long whip extended back into the hand of a ck-d woman.


    "Zhong Shan, I just saved you!" Nian Youyou said with a smile.


    "Ssshhh��"


    The whip coiled back into Nian Youyou''s palm, leaving the yellow-browed man''s corpse to fall, his face frozen in frustration.


    A beam of yellow light suddenly flew from the yellow-browed man''s body. Zhong Shan was about to use the Eight Extremes Heaven Tail to devour it.


    "Ssshhh��"


    Mr. Corpse cast a spell, capturing the yellow light, which turned into a stream of yellow energy in his hand. He clenched his fist and then tucked it into his sleeve.


    "This is useful to me," Mr. Corpse said simply.


    Zhong Shan nodded, not caring further. The Imperial Extremity Realm primordial spirit was not something he urgently needed.


    "Thanks!" Zhong Shan said to Nian Youyou.


    Although he might have been fine, and the ck Jade Talisman''s counterattack might have sealed the yellow-browed man, there were always exceptions. Perhaps it wouldn''t have sealed him, or Mr. Corpse might have died. Thus, Zhong Shan''s gratitude to Nian Youyou was heartfelt.


    "Thank? How exactly do you n to thank me?" Nian Youyou asked, her face lighting up with an inexplicable joy. This joy had started from the moment she met Zhong Shan a few days ago, a strange sense offort and delight as if she hadn''t seen him for a long time and was now finally reunited.


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    "Is this your subordinate? The technique he used to collect the primordial spirit was quite peculiar," Nian Youyou said, looking at Mr. Corpse.


    "Indeed. This is Mr. Corpse," Zhong Shan introduced.


    "From the Longevity Realm, Real Person Nian Youyou," she introduced herself to Mr. Corpse.


    Mr. Corpse gave a slight bow but did not speak, making Nian Youyou look at him curiously.


    "Where are you headed? How did you end up in this den of thieves?" Nian Youyou asked.


    Zhong Shan looked at Nian Youyou with a hint of surprise, realizing she had been following him all along, watching him enter this den of thieves.


    "That Sekong was supposed to take us to the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Who knew we''d encounter this situation!" Zhong Shan said, spreading his hands.


    "The Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss? How do you n to enter? It''s very strictly monitored right now!" Nian Youyou said with curiosity.


    "We have this!" Zhong Shan took out the token given by Jin Chan, while Mr. Corpse showed his token from Jian Ao.


    "You also have the Eighty-One Tokens?" Nian Youyou asked, wide-eyed with surprise.


    "Is that what they''re called?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Come on, I''ll take you to the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss!" Nian Youyou also took out a token to prove she was headed there as well.


    The three of them took to the skies, following Nian Youyou northward.


    "There are only eighty-one of these tokens. How do you have one too?" Zhong Shan asked in puzzlement.


    Rolling her eyes, Nian Youyou responded, "Why can you have one, but I can''t?"


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan rubbed his nose andughed.


    "Every thousand years, the Grand Nirvana Festival is held, and the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss distributes eighty-one tokens to the top virtuous cultivators in Shenzhou. Most of these top cultivators give the tokens to their disciples. My master gave this one to me. And you? Aren''t you supposed to be pursuing fame and fortune? How did you get one? And how did you get one for your subordinate too?" Nian Youyou asked, looking at Zhong Shan with surprise.


    It was truly amazing. Nian Youyou had once inquired about Zhong Shan from Bei Qingsi, learning that his master was only at the Nascent Soul stage. How could he have such tokens? Yet Zhong Shan had managed to get two.


    "One was given by a friend, and the other was from Jin Chan," Zhong Shan said truthfully.


    "What? The future Jin Chan Buddha? The one who fought alongside you on the battlefield?" Nian Youyou asked in shock.


    "Yes, why?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    Nian Youyou just stared at Zhong Shan as if trying to see through him. Why would the future Jin Chan Buddha give Zhong Shan this token?


    "The future Jin Chan Buddha? What does that mean?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Oh, it''s a term used in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. There are three Buddhas in the Pure Land: the Past Amitabha Buddha, the Present Guanyuan Buddha, and the Future Jin Chan Buddha. They are the strongest in the Pure Land and among the strongest in all of Shenzhou, just a step away from transcending mortal fate to achieve immortal destiny," Nian Youyou exined.


    "Three Buddhas? Each of them the strongest below immortals?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    "Yes. Originally, the Pure Land was already unbeatable with just two Buddhas. Now, with the addition of Jin Chan Buddha, they will be even more formidable," Nian Youyou said with a deep breath.


    "When did you arrive here?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Since west parted, I''ve been here. By the way, I need your help with something," Nian Youyou said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan asked in confusion.


    "You have incredible luck. I need your help to catch a pet," Nian Youyou replied.


    "A pet?" Zhong Shan looked at Nian Youyou warily.


    "Of course. You just need to catch it for me," Nian Youyou said.


    "Where is it?" Zhong Shan asked with a peculiar expression. After all, if even Nian Youyou couldn''t manage it, how could he?


    "It''s in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Don''t give me that look! I just saved you, and I''m only asking you to help me catch a small beast. Will you help or not?" Nian Youyou said with a hint of displeasure.


    "Alright, I''ll do my best!" Zhong Shan could only nod.


    "That''s more like it. Don''t worry, I trust your luck! With such poor natural talent, yet advancing to the Nascent Soul stage in such a short time, it''s clear how extraordinary your encounters have been and how lucky you are. Just stand there, and the beast wille running to your feet. All you need to do is step on it to keep it from escaping, and I''ll pick it up," Nian Youyou said with a yful smile.


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    Mr. Corpse, standing nearby, broke into a cold sweat listening to this.


    Five dayster, the three of them arrived at the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss as described by Nian Youyou.


    Seeing the Pure Land from afar, Zhong Shan was astonished. This was the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss?


    In the distance stood a golden mountain. The area at the foot of the mountain was vast, but aside from a dense forest, there was only a single monastery. The monastery, in both size and appearance, seemed like a typical earthly monastery, upying merely about ten acres.


    Could this be one of the four great holynds known for umting virtue, the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss?


    Outside the monastery, about twenty small groups sat. Some wore Taoist robes, others wore monk''s habits. In groups of two or three, they sat piously at the perimeter.


    As they flew closer, Zhong Shan looked curiously at the signboard in front of the monastery. It had four embossed characters:


    Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss!


    Looking at Nian Youyou, Zhong Shan felt almost duped. How could this tiny ce be the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss? But his rational mind told him that this likely was the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Indeed, it was!


    Suppressing his inner doubts, Zhong Shan pointed at the twenty small groups sitting cross-legged outside and asked, "Who are they?"


    "I mentioned earlier that the eighty-one tokens are given to top cultivators. These top cultivators often give the tokens to their favored disciples. Inside, there are many favored disciples of top cultivators. However, these favored disciples are not necessarily as strong as I am. The people sitting outside are the protectors of these second-generation disciples. For instance, those five monks in hemp robes are from Daming Temple. The abbot of Daming Temple gave the token to a junior in the Golden Core stage. These five were specially assigned to protect him. But without a token, they are not allowed inside," Nian Youyou exined, pointing to the five monks with sorrowful and solemn expressions.


    "Daming Temple?" Zhong Shan looked at the five waiting individuals.

 Chapter 397: My Son

    <h4>Chapter 397: My Son</h4>


    The gates of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss stood open!


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse followed Nian Youyou as they stepped through. Just as they entered, two monks in yellow robes emerged.


    "Amitabha," the two monks intoned, blocking Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse''s path.


    "Show them the tokens," Nian Youyou said.


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse immediately produced their ''Eighty-One Tokens'' and handed them to the monks.


    After a quick inspection, the monks returned the tokens and said, "Forgive us, please proceed."


    "No need, I''ll take them," Nian Youyou interjected.


    The monks bowed slightly to Nian Youyou and then stepped back into a nearby building.


    Following Nian Youyou, the three arrived at the central hall of the monastery. The hall was surrounded by formations to prevent spying and ward off external attacks. Outside the hall, two monks stood like guards on either side. Above the entrance was a que inscribed with four characters:


    Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss!


    Looking inside from the entrance, Zhong Shan squinted. The interior of the hall was pitch ck, utterly void of any light.


    It looked like a ck hole, as if it could swallow everything outside. There was nothing visible, just an endless darkness, as mysterious as the depths of space.


    "Let''s go," Nian Youyou said, stepping inside.


    Zhong Shan nced around, then followed, with Mr. Corpse close behind.


    One step inside, the pitch-ck environment suddenly transformed, bing overwhelmingly bright. The intense light made Zhong Shan squint, needing a moment to adjust.


    They were outside the hall?


    Zhong Shan remembered clearly stepping into the hall, yet now it seemed as if they had just stepped out.


    Behind them stood the hall with the ''Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss'' que, exactly as if they had just exited. In front of them, however, was no longer the monastery courtyard but an endless expanse.


    An infinite stretch! Spatial teleportation?


    epting this exnation, Zhong Shan took a deep breath, calming himself as he gazed at the boundlessnd before him.


    In this world, the sky was filled with endless golden clouds. There were no sun, moon, or stars, only a pervasive light, as if descending from an unknown source. In some areas, the light was much more intense, casting blinding golden rays. Among these, the most radiant area was far ahead of Zhong Shan.


    From a distance, he could see a vast range of golden mountains, stretching endlessly. At the center stood a massive rectangr golden mountain, with golden light not only shining down from above but also emanating upward from the valleys of the mountain.


    In the high sky, numerous golden clouds appeared, some resembling human figures, albeit hazy. These figures seemed to represent special individuals, much like the auspicious clouds over the ancient Holy Capital that symbolized the gathered officials.


    This was merit, boundless merit, condensed into the forms of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats.


    "Hu~~"


    Zhong Shan exhaled deeply.


    Nian Youyou watched the reactions of the two men as they entered, noting their calmness. Crossing into another world usually left people awestruck, but these two remainedposed. Zhong Shan showed initial surprise but quickly regained hisposure. Mr. Corpse, however, waspletely unaffected, his face expressionless and undisturbed, without a hint of amazement.


    Seeing their calm demeanor, Nian Youyou couldn''t help butment, "You two are really something. Most people would be utterly shocked at this sight, but you both barely reacted. Zhong Shan, what''s your secret?"


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly but didn''t respond, his thoughts focused on the task ahead.


    Zhong Shan let out a long breath.


    "How is it?" Nian Youyou asked.


    "This is exactly what I imagined the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss to be," Zhong Shan said with a hint of admiration.


    "Come, let me take you to our temporary residence. Everyone with an Eighty-One Token has been invited there to rest while we wait for the Grand Nirvana Festival in two months," Nian Youyou said.


    "Two months?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at her.


    "Yes! Come on, let me show you around," Nian Youyou said with a smile.


    The two followed Nian Youyou across thend, passing numerous monasteries. Countless temples were built within the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, housing many monks. As they flew, they could hear the sound of wooden fish and chanting from within the temples.


    There were also monks flying about, but none greeted Zhong Shan and hispanions.


    Soon, they arrived near a region bathed in intense light. Arge mountain stood there, with a square za at its peak, surrounded by a cluster of courtyards. Around the mountain floated several small inds, each with a small pavilion for resting.


    "Everyone with an Eighty-One Token is staying in the courtyards on the mountain. We''re staying in the northern one," Nian Youyou said, leading Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse to a courtyard.


    The courtyard had several rooms for resting, with formations isting each room to ensure privacy. Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse each chose a room.


    "After traveling for so many days, you should rest tonight," Nian Youyou said with a smile.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse both nodded.


    The next morning, Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou sat in a pavilion on one of the floating inds, drinking tea.


    "Zhong Shan, do you know what that ce is?" Nian Youyou asked, pointing to a forest bathed in golden light.


    "It''s my first time here, how would I know?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "That is the Buddha''s Tomb," Nian Youyou said.


    "The Buddha''s Tomb?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "Yes, that area holds the remains of over two hundred Bodhisattvas and Buddhas. When their lifespans end, they are buried there, hence it''s called the Buddha''s Tomb," Nian Youyou exined.


    "Oh? Does the reincarnated spirit child have something to do with the Buddha''s Tomb?" Zhong Shan asked, looking in that direction.


    Nian Youyou looked at Zhong Shan in surprise. "How did you guess that?"


    Zhong Shan just shook his head and smiled.


    "I''m not referring to the Buddha''s Tomb, but the small courtyard next to it. Do you see it?" Nian Youyou pointed to a courtyard barely visible through the trees.


    "What about it?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "That''s Fragrance Pavilion, where Fragrant Bodhisattva lives. She guards the tomb, and in her courtyard grows the unique ''Seven-Colored Rose,'' the king of roses. There are only three in the entire world, all in her courtyard. You see..." Nian Youyou said, looking at Zhong Shan with a smile.


    Seeing her expression, Zhong Shan was speechless. She was reminding him about the roses he still owed. He still had about twenty species to fulfill his promise of three thousand types of roses.


    "Is Fragrant Bodhisattva very protective of the Seven-Colored Roses?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "They''re practically her lifeblood. She spends her days facing the tomb and never speaks to anyone. Her temperament isn''t the best either," Nian Youyou said with a smile.


    Zhong Shan could only sigh in silence.


    "When will you bring it to me?" Nian Youyou asked with a cunning smile.


    "The time isn''t right yet, but don''t worry!" Zhong Shan responded evasively.


    As Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou were chatting, amotion erupted from the za below.


    "Daming Temple? Hahaha, is this the ''master'' Daming Temple produced? A gust of wind would blow you away. What? You''re not convinced? Want to kill me? Go ahead, kill me! Kill me if you can! Hahaha~~"


    Zhong Shan turned his head and saw a man in ck robes being held down by another man in yellow robes, pinned to the ground and unable to move.


    "Daming Temple, huh? I kill Daming Temple people, so what? You don''t like it? Think you''re strong?" the man in yellow robes sneered and lifted arge cudgel, smashing it down on the arm of the ck-robed man.


    "Boom~~~"


    "Ah~~~" the ck-robed man screamed in pain.


    Hearing the scream, Zhong Shan immediately stood up, looking down at the za with an uncertain expression. Nian Youyou followed his gaze with slight curiosity.


    On the surrounding floating inds, people either watched coldly or with amusement, but no one intervened.


    "Hahaha, does it hurt? One more hit and it''ll be useless. But I''m merciful. If you say Daming Temple is trash and call me grandpa, I''ll let you go. How about it? Hahahaha," the yellow-robed manughed arrogantly.


    "In your dreams!" the ck-robed man shouted stubbornly through his pain.


    "Hmph, you asked for it!" the yellow-robed man''s eyes widened as he swung his cudgel, now emitting a faint golden light, down towards the ck-robed man''s arm.


    "Boom~~~"


    There was a loud bang, but the cudgel did not hit the ck-robed man''s arm. Instead, someone had shed at the cudgel, meeting it with a powerful collision. The yellow-robed man staggered back a few steps��it was Zhong Shan. Upon hearing the ck-robed man''s voice, Zhong Shan had rushed into the fray, delivering a full-force sh at the yellow-robed man.


    Standing between the yellow-robed man and his victim, Zhong Shan coldly red at the aggressor, his eyes filled with ferocity.


    The yellow-robed man, bewildered by the sudden attack, looked at Zhong Shan with surprise and a strange expression.


    The spectators on the surrounding floating inds were intrigued. The battle had taken an unexpected turn.


    Nian Youyou watched Zhong Shan''s intervention with a hint of confusion. What was he doing? Why was he getting involved in a fight that didn''t concern him? Even if the ck-robed man was killed, it wasn''t Zhong Shan''s business.


    "Who are you?" the yellow-robed man asked, looking at Zhong Shan with a mix of shock and uncertainty.


    "Who am I? I''m his father! No one bullies my son in front of me!" Zhong Shan replied with a fierce re.


    Everyone had expected Zhong Shan to announce some impressive name or the name of his master, as the second-generation disciples here all had powerful backers. But upon hearing Zhong Shan''s words, almost everyone was dumbfounded. It felt like a flock of crows had flown over their heads.


    Your son? You''re his father?


    Nian Youyou was also stunned. She knew Zhong Shan did things differently, but this excuse was too outrageous. Was he helping the ck-robed man just to take advantage of him? Calling him his son��would the ck-robed man agree?


    Everyone thought the same thing: would the ck-robed man agree to be called his son? He had shown his pride and resilience just now, how could he let Zhong Shan take advantage of him?


    "Father!" an excited shout came from behind Zhong Shan. It was the ck-robed man.

 Chapter 398: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Misstep

    <h4>Chapter 398: Zhong Shan��s Misstep</h4>


    "Father!" came the ck-robed man''s excited shout from behind Zhong Shan.


    This single call made the jaws of the spectators on the floating inds drop to the ground. Wasn''t this guy just unyielding moments ago? Now he was calling someone else his father?


    Everyone was stunned. Nian Youyou, standing on the floating ind, was also wide-eyed. Zhong Shan''s son? Could it be?


    Not far away, Mr. Corpse stepped out from the courtyard, looking slightly surprised at the scene unfolding in the za.


    The yellow-robed man opposite them seemed like he had swallowed a fly, momentarily unsure how to react.


    Zhong Shan red angrily at the yellow-robed man. At the same time, he channeled his mental power into his eyes. The world around him shattered, and an endless array of lightning rules burst forth.


    "No one can insult a member of the Zhong family," Zhong Shan said, shing his de at the yellow-robed man.


    Heavenly Rule! Wind Tear!


    Heavenly Demon Body Refining Technique! Fifth Stage!


    Red Luan Mist!


    Thunder Foundation Technique! Ten Thousand Thunder Chase!


    "Boom~~~"


    A massive de aura erupted from Zhong Shan''s strike, slicing toward the yellow-robed man. The force of Wind Tear split the air on either side, a destructive power that cleaved through rules aimed at the yellow-robed man.


    Endless lightning formed thunderclouds that transformed into nine massive thunder dragons, opening their huge maws to crash into the yellow-robed man. Mixed within was the Red Luan Mist, surging toward the yellow-robed man with Zhong Shan''s full power.


    It was a mighty strike. In Zhong Shan''s fury, it was like a tidal wave, an apocalyptic force crashing down on the yellow-robed man. The za exploded with dazzling lightning, illuminating the surrounding floating inds.


    On the floating inds, many people gaped, their eyes shing with disbelief and horror. The lower-ranked cultivators could only marvel, while the higher-ranked ones were shocked. A Nascent Soul stage? How could this powere from a Nascent Soul stage cultivator?


    "Boom~~~ Boom~~~ Boom~~~ Boom~~~ Boom~~~"


    Strike after strike, Zhong Shan unleashed a torrent of destructive power. The za, reinforced with formations, was still filled with flying debris and stones. Dust flew amidst the lightning as Zhong Shan continued his relentless assault on the yellow-robed man.


    His strength was overwhelming. The yellow-robed man struggled to defend himself. Zhong Shan''s power was immense, and each powerful impact left him unable to counterattack. The yellow-robed man, at the Body Fusion stage, had sparred with his brothers, but never like this. This wasn''t a spar; it was a deadly fight. Each move was a killing blow, threatening serious injury or death if he slipped up. Zhong Shan seemed unconcerned with defense, fighting like a madman!


    Even though she had seen Zhong Shan fight before, Nian Youyou felt a surge of excitement seeing him battle so fiercely again. She had faced many Nascent Soul cultivators using secret techniques to reach the Body Fusion stage, like Sekong before, but this yellow-robed man was a genuine Body Fusion stage cultivator. Yet Zhong Shan remained dominant.


    At first, the yellow-robed man could resist, but gradually he realized something was wrong. In this life-and-death struggle, why was he suddenly thinking of his junior sisters? And even his senior sisters with their graceful figures?


    The Red Luan Mist was taking effect!


    "Schiiing��Boom��"


    Zhong Shan''s de severed the yellow-robed man''s right arm, which exploded into fragments under the bombardment of lightning.


    "Ahhh!" the yellow-robed man screamed in agony. His momentum faltered, and in fear, he turned to flee.


    "Zhiguang, save me!" he cried out in terror, clutching his severed arm as tears of panic streamed down his face.


    The spectators on the floating inds burst intoughter at the sight. Crying? He was scared to tears?


    "Hmph, you wanted to kill my son?" Zhong Shan''s eyes zed with fury.


    Thunderclouds roared in the sky, and nine thunder dragons attacked the yellow-robed man from different directions. In his current state, missing an arm and having lost his weapon, he couldn''t withstand the assault. The thunder dragons might not kill him, but they restricted his movements, making escape impossible. Even if he withstood one thunder dragon, Zhong Shan''s fierce strike was already upon him.


    Heavenly Rule! Wind Tear!


    This time, it wasn''t just a de aura but a de force as Zhong Shan closed in. The powerful strike stirred a superstorm, sending debris flying across the za. Zhong Shan believed that this fatal strike would surely obliterate the yellow-robed man.


    Everyone on the floating inds watched coldly. No one moved to help. Just as the de force was about to hit the frenzied yellow-robed man, only three zhang away��


    "ng��"


    A metallic sound rang out as Zhong Shan''s de force stopped. No, it was caught by someone.


    A golden arm had caught Zhong Shan''s fierce de force. The storm ceased, and the lightning dissipated.


    The yellow-robed man had been saved. A tall, thin monk had appeared in front of him, one hand catching Zhong Shan''s de force, the other making a prayer gesture at his chest.


    "Amitabha, my friend, it''s best to show mercy," the tall, thin monk said solemnly, his voice full of earnest persuasion.


    The tall, thin monk had easily stopped Zhong Shan''s powerful strike, causing everyone''s pupils to contract. This level of power��Imperial Extremity Realm!


    "Zhiguang Arhat?" Nian Youyou muttered, frowning slightly.


    Mr. Corpse moved quickly, stepping forward as if to support Zhong Shan.


    The gap between the Imperial Extremity Realm and Zhong Shan''s current level was vast. Zhong Shan was no match. He didn''t withdraw his de; the de force remained, held by Zhiguang Arhat.


    Everyone thought it was over. With an Imperial Extremity Realm expert intervening, Zhong Shan, at the Nascent Soul stage, couldn''t possibly cause more trouble. Surely, he would stop, perhaps utter a few harsh words at most. The spectators were disappointed.


    Zhong Shan, however, did not look at the severed yellow-robed man but suddenly paused. His eyes turned blood-red, filled with even more ferocity than before. He red at Zhiguang Arhat with a rage tenfold, even hundredfold stronger than before, his eyes brimming with unbridled hatred.


    "Roar��"


    Zhong Shan roared towards the sky, his body radiating a fierce aura, like a storm emanating from him.


    Opening his mouth, Zhong Shan swallowed a berserk pill.


    His eyes blood-red, Zhong Shan retracted his de and shed at Zhiguang Arhat with immense force, as if pouring all his strength into this one strike, determined to kill the arhat.


    Zhiguang Arhat, who had initially caught the de force with ease, now found himself facing a berserk Zhong Shan, whose strength and resolve had surged to a desperate and deadly peak.


    The spectators on the floating inds stared in stunned silence. Had this guy gone mad? Picking a fight with anyone like they were his mortal enemy? Before, he was just aggressive; now he seemed truly insane!


    "Boom��"


    After taking the berserk pill, Zhong Shan''s power surged again. With a loud bang, Zhiguang Arhat was sent flying nearly two hundred meters. Despite this, Zhiguang''s stance remained steady, though anger shed in his eyes.


    "Friend, you are going too far!" Zhiguang Arhat shouted angrily.


    "Roar��" Zhong Shan didn''t care about going too far. His mind was in a frenzy; he was determined to kill, kill him!


    With a wild roar, Zhong Shan charged at Zhiguang Arhat, his de raised.


    Everyone watched in shock, unable to understand the chaotic scene unfolding before them. The Nascent Soul stage cultivator had gone mad, abandoning the wounded yellow-robed man and attacking an arhat of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    Zhong Shanpletely ignored the yellow-robed man who had bullied his son, focusing entirely on Zhiguang Arhat.


    Zhiguang Arhat was at a loss. Whose disciple was this lunatic? Why was he so fixated on attacking?


    Meanwhile, the yellow-robed man who had been crying under Zhong Shan''s assault looked on in disbelief. Was this guy a maniac?


    "Boom��"


    As the yellow-robed man momentarily lost focus, a ck light struck him, sending him crashing into the ground. He found himself unable to move, as if his body was paralyzed.


    Mr. Corpsended nearby, kicking the yellow-robed man towards Zhong Shan''s son.


    Zhong Shan''s son nced at his frenzied father in the distance, then down at the yellow-robed man at his feet. His eyes hardened, and he punched the yellow-robed man''s head.


    "Boom��"


    The yellow-robed man''s head shattered. A ruthless gleam shed in Zhong Shan''s son''s eyes. He then stood and shouted towards the distance, "Father, I have killed him!"


    His face was filled with worry.


    But Zhong Shan didn''t care whether the yellow-robed man was dead or not. All he wanted was Zhiguang Arhat''s death.


    Die! Die! Die! Die!


    "Boom��"


    Despite being at the Imperial Extremity Realm, Zhiguang Arhat caught Zhong Shan''s de again, forcing Zhong Shan to a standstill. This was the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. If guests fought among themselves and someone died, it was one thing, but if an arhat killed a guest, it would be a breach of hospitality. Moreover, the guests here were either supreme cultivators or had powerful backers. Offending them could be dangerous, even for an arhat of the Pure Land.


    "Friend, is there some kind of misunderstanding?" Zhiguang''s eyes shed with intense anger.


    "Misunderstanding? Hahahahaha��" Zhong Shanughed hysterically, tears streaming down his face as heughed maniacally.


    Zhong Shan, crying? Everyone around was stunned.

 Chapter 399: The Golden Crow Prince

    <h4>Chapter 399: The Golden Crow Prince</h4>


    Everyone watched Zhong Shan in stunned silence. What had started as standing up for his son turned into a vengeful assault against Zhiguang Arhat. Then, in the middle of this vendetta, Zhong Shan burst into tears when he couldn''t overpower Zhiguang Arhat.


    What on earth was going on?


    The spectators on the floating inds were dumbfounded. From the moment Zhong Shan had jumped in, nothing made sense. The fight was chaotic and confused, and now it hade to this emotional outburst.


    Today was madness! What have we just witnessed?


    "Father! Father!" Zhong Shan''s son cried out worriedly from below. Mr. Corpse frowned as he looked up, while Nian Youyou watched with a mix of curiosity and surprise. Crying? She had never seen Zhong Shan cry before. How could this be happening?


    "Roar!" Zhong Shan bellowed, swinging his de fiercely at Zhiguang Arhat once more, his eyes wild with rage. He wanted him dead!


    "Hmph."


    "Boom!"


    Zhiguang finally lost his temper. With a cold snort, he struck Zhong Shan hard in the chest.


    Zhong Shan flew back five hundred meters but immediately charged forward again, de in hand.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Zhong Shan endured over a hundred blows but was no match for Zhiguang Arhat. Zhiguang had refrained from killing him, but Zhong Shan''s persistence wore him down. If Zhiguang had struck a killing blow, the ck Jade Talisman would have protected Zhong Shan, making the oue uncertain.


    "Don''t think I won''t kill you!" Zhiguang Arhat''s eyes shed with murderous intent after Zhong Shan''s relentless assault.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes were bloodshot, his face streaked with tears and filled with unwavering killing intent.


    Again, he charged at Zhiguang Arhat, who, now enraged, drew a long sword. A cold blue light flickered at its tip.


    "Snap!"


    Before Zhong Shan could reach Zhiguang''s sword, a long whip wrapped around him, pulling him back.


    It was Nian Youyou!


    Seeing Zhiguang''s intent to kill, Nian Youyou had used her whip to drag Zhong Shan back to their courtyard. She pulled in Mr. Corpse and Zhong Shan''s son as well, then mmed the door shut.


    "Snap!"


    The door closed, leaving the spectators outside disappointed, though some watched Nian Youyou''s courtyard with caution, knowing her reputation as the disciple of a prominent figure from the Longevity Realm.


    Zhiguang Arhat, whose killing intent had been thwarted, looked at the yellow-robed man''s corpse and then at Nian Youyou''s courtyard. His expression darkened before he turned and flew away.


    Inside the courtyard''s main hall, with the doors shut and all formations activated to iste them from the outside, there were only four people: Nian Youyou, Mr. Corpse, Zhong Shan, and his son.


    All three watched Zhong Shan, who was no longer bound by the whip. He held a cup of tea, struggling to bring it to his lips. Zhong Shan was fighting to control his rage, finding it incredibly difficult to drink the tea. Inch by inch, he brought it closer to his mouth.


    Zhong Shan''s son, still filled with concern, stepped forward. "Father, are you alright?"


    Zhong Shan finally managed to sip some tea, taking a deep breath to steady himself. He looked at his son with a mixture of relief and lingering fury. "I''m fine now. It''s over."


    Nian Youyou approached, her curiosity still piqued. "Zhong Shan, what happened out there? Why were you so determined to kill Zhiguang Arhat?"


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes for a moment, gathering his thoughts. "There are some old grudges, things that you wouldn''t understand. I lost control."


    Mr. Corpse remained silent, observing Zhong Shan closely. He had never seen Zhong Shan this emotional before, and it worried him.


    "Old grudges?" Nian Youyou echoed, still puzzled. "Whatever they are, you need to be careful. This ce is full of powerful beings, and even you can''t take on an arhat without consequences."


    Zhong Shan nodded slowly, understanding the gravity of her words. "Thank you, Nian Youyou. Your intervention saved my life."


    Nian Youyou smiled slightly. "Just don''t make it a habit of throwing your life away. We have bigger things to worry about."


    Zhong Shan sighed deeply, his rage slowly subsiding as he focused on the challenges ahead.


    "Crack!"


    The teacup shattered in Zhong Shan''s grip. He took a deep breath, trying to regain hisposure.


    "Father, are you alright?" his son asked, worry evident in his voice.


    Turning to look at his son, Zhong Shan exhaled slowly, a bit calmer. "I''m fine, Tian''er."


    This was Zhong Tian, Zhong Shan''s adopted son and the Crown Prince of the Great Zong Dynasty. Years ago, it was Zhong Tian who had prayed for and obtained a Forbidden Breaking Pill for Zhong Shan, allowing him to step into the innate stage and enter the world of cultivation.


    "Father, what happened just now? Who was that man? Why were you so angry?" Zhong Tian asked with concern.


    "Yes, are you mad? You''re only at the Nascent Soul stage, yet you went head-to-head with Zhiguang Arhat? Do you have a death wish? If I hadn''t saved you, you would have died today," Nian Youyou added.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan said, ncing at Nian Youyou.


    "Just remember that," Nian Youyou responded quickly.


    "Tian''er, why did you want to kill that yellow-robed man?" Zhong Shan asked his son.


    "Father, do you remember the person who gave us the Forbidden Breaking Pill in Dragon Gate Valley? That was my master," Zhong Tian exined.


    "So?" Zhong Shan prompted.


    "My master was killed by that man. His sect is hostile to mine at Daming Temple. No, they were incited by people from the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss to be enemies. He killed my master," Zhong Tian said, still filled with hatred.


    "I see," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Father, what about you just now?" Zhong Tian asked.


    "That man, Zhiguang? Ha, hahaha��" Zhong Shanughed angrily, hisughter tinged with madness.


    The others stared at Zhong Shan.


    "Years ago, when the Crown Prince of Splitting Heaven killed your mother, I remembered everyone involved. He, Zhiguang, was one of the aplices under the Crown Prince of Splitting Heaven," Zhong Shan said, his eyes shing with intense hatred.


    "Him?" Zhong Tian''s eyes also filled with rage.


    Unlike some of Zhong Shan''s other adopted children, Zhong Tian remembered Kui''er vividly. He had once been a beggar, on the brink of starvation, when a carriage stopped beside him. Two people got off: one was Zhong Shan, and the other was Wei Kui''er.


    "This poor little beggar, let''s help him, sir."


    "Come, drink this porridge. It will give you strength."


    "Look at you, training so hard with your father. Don''t push yourself too much. You''re all covered in wounds. Hold still, I''ll apply some medicine."


    "Hiding here alone and crying again? You may not be progressing as fast as your brothers in cultivation, but that''s alright. They have their own shorings too. Here, I made this sweet cake for you. Only you have it."


    Memories flooded back, and Zhong Tian''s eyes reddened. In his heart, Kui''er had long been the most important person. As a child, it was her secret care that prevented him from falling into despair and gave him the courage to persevere.


    After Wei Kui''er died, both Zhong Shan and Zhong Tian were devastated. Zhong Shan was in a stupor for a long time, and Zhong Tian knelt before her spirit tablet without sleep or rest until he passed out.


    "Father, I want to kill him!" Zhong Tian said, eyes red with tears.


    "Snap." Zhong Shan grabbed Zhong Tian''s hand, his expression stern.


    Feeling his father''s grip, Zhong Tian calmed down a bit, though tears still flowed from his eyes.


    Zhong Tian understood his father''s earlier madness. The thought of Wei Kui''er, her gentle and loving demeanor, had long melted their hearts. How could Zhong Shan restrain himself when reminded of her?


    "He''s mine!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "Father!" Zhong Tian protested.


    "Other than the Crown Prince of Splitting Heaven, you are not to touch anyone else. There are about twenty others; I will give you their portraits. Between the two of us, whoever finds them first will take action," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Alright!" Zhong Tian nodded quickly, wiping away his tears.


    "The Crown Prince of Splitting Heaven? Your enemy is actually the prince of two dynasties?" Nian Youyou asked in surprise.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded. It was clear he had already investigated the background of the Crown Prince of Splitting Heaven.


    "Huh, that''s a tough grudge to settle! Almost impossible," Nian Youyou shook her head.


    "Two dynasties? What do you mean?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "This Crown Prince of Splitting Heaven is extremely powerful, holding the title of prince in two dynasties: the Great Departure Dynasty and the Great Longevity Dynasty. Although he primarily belongs to the Great Longevity Dynasty, his mother is the great-granddaughter of the revered Nirvana family from the Great Departure Dynasty, so he was granted the title of prince in both dynasties, enjoying double the celestial privileges. Not to mention the power of the two dynasties backing him, his personal strength is formidable," Nian Youyou exined.


    "Oh?" Zhong Tian looked at Nian Youyou.


    "In the Great Departure Dynasty, he is one of six princes. Due to his Nirvana lineage, he can summon a Phoenix Prince, an emperor-level beast. Additionally, as the prince of the Great Longevity Dynasty, do you know what their national beast is?" Nian Youyou asked.


    "The crow," Zhong Tian answered.


    "Correct, the crow, but not just any crow. It''s the three-legged Golden Crow, a being like the sun itself, with true sr fire that can incinerate anything. Each of the ten princes of the Great Longevity Dynasty can summon one of these Golden Crows. When they join forces, it is said that ten suns appear in the sky, creating a formidable force. The power is indescribable. If you are to oppose the Crown Prince of Splitting Heaven, you must first face his ability to summon these two emperor-level beasts, the Phoenix Prince and the three-legged Golden Crow. Additionally, you have to consider the stance of the two dynasties. Even if you disregard the Great Departure Dynasty, the ten suns of the Great Longevity Dynasty pose a colossal challenge," Nian Youyou sighed.


    "A challenge? Hmph!" A fierce light shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    Zhong Shan and Zhong Tian fell silent, burying their hatred deep within their hearts, striving to calm and steady themselves.


    "Mr. Corpse, you and Tian''er should leave for now. Exin to him the nature of our rtionship and matters regarding our household," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    "Tian''er, go with him. I need to speak with Nian Youyou," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, Father," Zhong Tian nodded and left.


    Nian Youyou looked slightly puzzled. When the two men had exited the hall, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and sealed the hall once more, setting up his g formation to create an istion barrier.


    "What do you want to talk about?" Nian Youyou asked curiously.


    "You mentioned earlier that after west parted, you came straight to the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. You must be very familiar with this ce. I need information about Zhiguang Arhat''s residence, where he frequents, and potential locations he might visit. Also, tell me about the affiliations and uncertainties of these ces," Zhong Shan said, looking at Nian Youyou.


    "What? You''re not nning to kill Zhiguang Arhat here in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, his own territory, are you?" Nian Youyou asked, wide-eyed in astonishment.

 Chapter 400: Firing the Gun

    <h4>Chapter 400: Firing the Gun</h4>


    Chapter 400, explosive release today, requesting monthly tickets! ����


    "What? You''re not nning to kill Zhiguang Arhat here in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, his own territory, are you?" Nian Youyou asked in astonishment.


    "The opportunity is fleeting. If I don''t kill him now, who knows when the next chance wille? He must die!" Zhong Shan said firmly, his eyes shing with determination.


    "You can''t defeat him!" Nian Youyou shook her head.


    "That''s not your concern. I was too impulsive earlier. Next time I face him, I will control myself. I can kill him," Zhong Shan said resolutely.


    "But why should I help you? You owe me a lot already. You haven''t even repaid me for the roses, and I''ve saved your life twice. You haven''t settled any of these debts," Nian Youyou said with a sudden smile.


    "I will do my best to catch the pet you want," Zhong Shan said, frowning.


    "That''s not enough. Catching the pet was already agreed upon," Nian Youyou shook her head.


    "I will remember this favor," Zhong Shan said, feeling a bit impatient.


    If it were any other matter, Zhong Shan could deal with it, but for him, when it came to avenging Kui''er, any bargaining was intolerable. A hint of annoyance rose in his heart.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s impatience, Nian Youyou quickly said, "Alright, alright. Just remember you owe me."


    "Fine," Zhong Shan nodded, calming down.


    "Zhiguang Arhat''s residence is out of the question. He lives near a group of other arhats, and monks are often around. But there is one ce where he goes alone for a month at a time, which happens to be where I want to catch my pet," Nian Youyou said.


    "Oh?"


    "Let''s be clear: if I help you kill Zhiguang Arhat, you owe me another favor," Nian Youyou immediately added.


    "No need. I don''t need your help. I''ll deal with my enemy myself," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "You?" Nian Youyou looked at Zhong Shan skeptically.


    "Just tell me where it is," Zhong Shan insisted, ignoring Nian Youyou''s doubt.


    "The Blue Sea of Heart Refinement," Nian Youyou said.


    "What kind of ce is that?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s a very peculiar ce in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, an extensive area shrouded in blue mist. Inside, you will encounter endless illusions that disturb the mind butck physical attack power. If you can''t handle the illusions, you can just sit down and meditate to ovee them. It''s an excellent ce for training the mind and will. Over the years, it opens to the public every two months for one month at a time. Zhiguang Arhat, because he has a ''Bodhi Seed'' given by a Buddha, is responsible for twenty years to bring out those who can''t handle the illusions and end up meditating," Nian Youyou exined.


    "With a Bodhi Seed, he can ignore the illusions?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Exactly! The Blue Sea of Heart Refinement is vast and well-hidden. If you want to confront him, it has to be there," Nian Youyou exined.


    Closing his eyes, Zhong Shan took a deep breath. "Thank you."


    "Verbal thanks mean nothing. Remember this favor, and don''t forget, my pet is in the depths of the Blue Sea of Heart Refinement. You must catch it for me," Nian Youyou said.


    "A pet? What kind of pet are you talking about? Didn''t you say the Blue Sea of Heart Refinement has no physical attacks? Won''t your pet attack people?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "The pet I''m talking about is unique. It doesn''t attack people in the usual sense. It''s a rare creature known as the ''Phantom Lotus Beast.'' It can merge with the illusions, making it hard to detect. You have to catch it without getting caught up in the illusions yourself," Nian Youyou exined.


    Zhong Shan nodded, understanding the challenge ahead. "I''ll catch it for you. But first, I need to kill Zhiguang Arhat."


    "Just be careful. The Blue Sea of Heart Refinement is not to be underestimated," Nian Youyou warned.


    "I will," Zhong Shan said, his resolve unshaken.


    "It doesn''t attack people; it''s actually afraid of humans. I discovered it because of my ancestor who was an immortal. It''s hidden in the Blue Sea of Heart Refinement, unknown to anyone," Nian Youyou exined.


    "It''s afraid of people? What is it doing in there? Cultivating? What does it eat?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I''m not sure. I haven''t even seen it clearly. I just know it''s hiding in there. As for cultivation, you''re right. It cultivates by consuming something from people," Nian Youyou said.


    "Oh? Consuming something from people?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "Merit or fortune!" Nian Youyou replied.


    "What? It consumes merit and fortune?" Zhong Shan was taken aback.


    "Yes, thest time I went in, it consumed a lot of my merit. Luckily, I am a real person of the Longevity Realm, and the Longevity Realm replenished my merit. The same will happen for you. You are attached to the Great Luo Dynasty, so if your fortune is consumed, the Great Luo Dynasty will replenish it. But if it''s your own collected fortune, once it''s gone, it''s gone," Nian Youyou exined.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan looked at Nian Youyou in surprise.


    Fortune, indeed, arge portion of it came from the Great Luo Dynasty, but he also had the fortune of the Great Zong Dynasty. Would that just be lost?


    "What''s wrong?" Nian Youyou asked, noticing Zhong Shan''s reaction.


    "Don''t worry, I can gather more fortune. I will keep my promise," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    Indeed, with the Great Zong Dynasty behind him, even if the little beast consumed some of his fortune, he could gather moreter. The key was to fulfill his promise to Nian Youyou and repay the favor.


    Still, how could there be such a beast that consumed merit and fortune? How did it eat?


    Five dayster, Nian Youyou brought Zhong Shan to the peak of a mountain.


    The sky was still filled with golden light, while below, a vast mountain range was shrouded in endless rolling blue mist. The mist obscured everything, making it impossible to see inside. The overall view was quite beautiful. Zhong Shan didn''t use his divine sense to probe, as Nian Youyou had mentioned it would be useless. The illusions could even attach to the divine sense, making one ''see'' things that weren''t there, like a dragon in a ce where there was none.


    His son, being at the Golden Core stage, was left behind with Mr. Corpse to ensure his safety.


    "This is the Blue Sea of Heart Refinement. The deeper you go, the stronger the illusions. It''s best not to fly inside, as it can lead to confusion and crashes. In three days, Zhiguang Arhat will enter to find those who can''t withstand the illusions and have entered meditation. Be prepared; I''ll lead him to you," Nian Youyou exined.


    "Got it," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Following Nian Youyou down the mountain, Zhong Shan squinted at the blue mist sea before stepping in.


    "Boom!"


    Not far ahead, the ground suddenly erupted, and a withered human hand emerged. Most of the flesh on the hand had rotted away, making it look horrifying.


    "Boom, boom, boom!"


    In rapid session, the ground all around Zhong Shan was upheaved, and countless rotting arms emerged, waving as if trying to grab something. In no time, the once blue mist environment transformed into a dark hellscape filled with countless grasping hands, as numerous as grass on a prairie, reaching for anything above them.


    Further away, decayed corpses staggered towards Zhong Shan, their rotting hands reaching out to tear him apart.


    Zhong Shan stared coldly ahead, continuing to walk forward. The decayed corpses drew closer, one hand reaching to gouge out his eyes, stopping just ten centimeters away.


    Unfazed, Zhong Shan maintained hisposure, reminding himself that these were merely illusions meant to disturb his mind. He kept walking, knowing that his mission required unwavering determination and focus.


    Zhong Shan didn''t blink as he walked forward, letting the decaying hands pass through him as if they were mere projections��just illusions.


    Passing through this illusion, Zhong Shan saw Nian Youyou again.


    "How was it?" Nian Youyou asked with a smile.


    "Ordinary," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Yes, that was the simplest illusion. The real deep illusions are ahead, and they will dig into your heart, creating scenes that make you happy, scared, sad, or sorrowful. There are all kinds," Nian Youyou said.


    "Let''s go further," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright, these next few days, you''ll truly experience the wonders of these illusions," Nian Youyou replied with a smile.


    As they progressed, Zhong Shan encountered various illusions, but none could deter him. By noon the next day, they arrived at a very secluded valley within the Blue Sea of Heart Refinement. Here, Zhong Shan faced another illusion.


    "Don''t move, hands on your head, lie down!"


    "Move again, and I''ll shoot! Drop the weapon on the ground."


    "Calling headquarters, we are at Wenchang Pavilion in Yangzhou. We''ve located the criminal Zhong Shan. The suspect has taken a hostage. Requesting backup, requesting backup!"


    Seeing the two armed police officers, Zhong Shan was momentarily dazed. A sense of disorientation almost made himply with their orders.


    His pupils contracted as he quickly snapped out of the induced feeling.


    "The suspect killed the hostage. Open fire!"


    "Bang! Bang! Bang!"


    A series of gunshots rang out, but nothing happened to Zhong Shan. He stared deeply at the police officers before the illusion faded away.


    "What did you see?" Nian Youyou asked Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan looked at her strangely. How could he exin that he had seen police officers opening fire?


    "These illusionse from the heart?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "Not exactly. They dig into your stored memories, creating strange scenarios for you. It looks like you can''t go any further for now. Stay here, and I''ll go fetch Zhiguang Arhat," Nian Youyou exined.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Zhong Shan remained alone in the valley while Nian Youyou went to find Zhiguang Arhat. As he looked around, the memory of the police and the gunfire resurfaced, something he hadn''t recalled in a long time.


    Shaking off the absurd feeling, Zhong Shan retrieved arge pce from his storage bracelet and fixed it in the valley using formations. Then he waited.


    Zhong Shan was determined to face Zhiguang Arhat here and, with his own strength, kill the Imperial Extremity Realm expert to honor Kui''er''s memory.


    PS: Making a grand wish, today''s explosive release! Please support with monthly and rmendation tickets!

 Chapter 401: The Offering

    <h4>Chapter 401: The Offering</h4>


    Five dayster, outside the valley where Zhong Shan resided.


    "Reverend Nian Youyou, why have you brought me here?" Zhiguang Arhat frowned as he asked.


    "I am here at someone else''s request. The person you seek is inside the valley," Nian Youyou replied, pointing towards the valley ahead.


    While others could not extend their divine senses, Zhiguang Arhat could, thanks to the Bodhi seed he possessed, which allowed him to ovee illusions.


    Releasing his divine sense, he immediately scanned the valley. Within, there was a grand hall with its doors open, and inside was just one person, Zhong Shan.


    Zhiguang Arhat frowned as he looked at Nian Youyou.


    "Please," Nian Youyou said with a smile.


    Zhiguang Arhat hesitated for a moment before stepping forward. After all, he only sensed Zhong Shan inside, a defeated adversary, so there was nothing to fear. He and Nian Youyou entered the valley together.


    Inside the pce, Zhong Shan slowly walked out.


    "Zhiguang Arhat, do you remember me?" Zhong Shan asked, taking a deep breath to calm himself.


    "And you are?" Zhiguang Arhat frowned, staring at Zhong Shan. It was clear he did not recognize him; the previous encounter had been confusing and unclear.


    "Please,e in," Zhong Shan gestured invitingly to Zhiguang.


    Zhiguang Arhat nced at Nian Youyou.


    "Nian Youyou, please wait outside. This won''t take long," Zhong Shan said again.


    "Uh? Alright," Nian Youyou replied, looking at Zhong Shan in surprise.


    Zhiguang Arhat confirmed that there was only Zhong Shan inside, so he felt no fear and stepped forward.


    Zhong Shan performed a spell, and the banners outside activated, isting the interior from outside sound. Though the formation wasn''t strong in defense, it could block divine sense from probing, which made Nian Youyou somewhat annoyed.


    Zhiguang Arhat stared at Zhong Shan.


    "Please," Zhong Shan repeated.


    Zhiguang Arhat squinted at Zhong Shan but still stepped inside.


    In the center of the hall was a spirit tablet. On the tablet were engraved the words: "Beloved Wife Wei Kui''er."


    Wei Kui''er. Zhiguang Arhat searched his memory but couldn''t recall this name.


    "ng��������������������������������������"


    The doors of the hall suddenly closed.


    "What do you want?" Zhiguang Arhat coldly asked Zhong Shan.


    "You must be wondering why I pursued you so relentlessly that day," Zhong Shan said.


    Squinting, Zhiguang Arhat responded coldly, "Indeed, we have never met before. Why did you chase me so relentlessly?"


    "This is my wife. Do you recognize her?" Zhong Shan walked to the spirit tablet and lit incense.


    Zhiguang Arhat looked at the tablet and said, "I believe there is a misunderstanding. Wei Kui''er, this is the first time I''ve heard this name."


    "Misunderstanding? Do you remember Crown Prince Lietian?" Zhong Shan turned to Zhiguang Arhat.


    Hearing the name Crown Prince Lietian, Zhiguang Arhat''s pupils instinctively shrank.


    "Who exactly are you?" Zhiguang Arhat demanded coldly.


    "I brought you here today to borrow something from you," Zhong Shan said.


    "What?" Zhiguang Arhat asked.


    "Your life!" Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold.


    Zhiguang Arhat''s eyes widened, sensing something amiss.


    "Seal��������������������������������������"


    With a loud shout from Zhong Shan, he suddenly transformed into a talisman in Zhiguang Arhat''s vision.


    Then, the entire interior of the grand hall was stered with the shadows of talismans. One even adhered to Zhiguang Arhat''s forehead, rendering him immobile. The ck Jade Talisman, the most powerful artifact Zhong Shan could currently wield, instantly sealed Zhiguang Arhat. What if he was an arhat? He could still be sealed. Zhong Shan walked up to Zhiguang Arhat and raised his de to sever his head.


    Just as the de was about to fall, a yellow figure emerged from Zhiguang Arhat''s body.


    Zhiguang''s primordial spirit? Zhong Shan''s eyes widened. How could this be? Wasn''t the ck Jade Talisman supposed to seal even the primordial spirit?


    There was no time to ponder. Zhong Shan quickly extended his divine sense towards Zhiguang''s primordial spirit, which seemed equally determined to eliminate Zhong Shan and swiftly charged at him.


    "Buzz��������������������������������������"


    Zhiguang entered Zhong Shan''s body. Zhong Shan stood still.


    Inside Zhong Shan''s Niwan Pce, Zhiguang''s primordial spirit hovered, a small white glowing orb atop his head, surveying the surroundings, the spiritual realm of Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan''s spirit manifested a form, his spiritual body appearing with the adorable Ba Ji Tian Wei on his shoulder, its eight differently colored tails swaying.


    "What was that artifact just now?" Zhiguang''s primordial spirit stared at Zhong Shan''s manifested spiritual body.


    "Bodhi seed? Is that what prevented you from being sealed?" Zhong Shan looked at the white orb atop Zhiguang''s primordial spirit.


    "Hmph, yes. With the Bodhi seed, I can easily devour your consciousness and then search your entire body," Zhiguang''s primordial spirit said coldly, the Bodhi seed on his head shining brightly, sending waves of white light towards Zhong Shan''s spiritual body.


    "Yiya��������������������������������������"


    Ba Ji Tian Wei let out a soft cry, and Zhiguang''s primordial spirit was stunned, looking at Ba Ji Tian Wei in terror.


    "What is that?" Zhiguang''s primordial spirit screamed in horror.


    In the instant Ba Ji Tian Wei cried out, the Bodhi seed atop Zhiguang''s head disappeared, snatched away by one of Ba Ji Tian Wei''s tails.


    "Awu��������������������������������������"


    Ba Ji Tian Wei swallowed the Bodhi seed in one gulp.


    "No, it can''t be!" Zhiguang shouted.


    "Awu��������������������������������������"


    Opening its mouth wide, Ba Ji Tian Wei exaggeratedly devoured Zhiguang''s primordial spirit as well.


    After swallowing the Bodhi seed, Ba Ji Tian Wei''s eight tails swayed rapidly, indicating that the Bodhi seed contained an immense, unexpected energy.


    Zhong Shan''s spiritual body dispersed abruptly. Outside, Zhong Shan immediately sat cross-legged.


    The massive energy from the Bodhi seed, mostly absorbed by Ba Ji Tian Wei, overflowed some into Zhong Shan. Even this small amount was brimming with a powerful energy, directly enhancing Zhong Shan''s body and strengthening his Nascent Soul.


    The terrifying energy enhanced Zhong Shan''s Nascent Soul, refining his body. Outside, Zhong Shan appeared surrounded by a smoky aura of lightning, resembling a deity.


    An hourter, Zhong Shan opened his eyes. He looked at himself in mild surprise.


    Nascent Soul stage, fourth level? A breakthrough? What exactly was that Bodhi seed? Such potent energy?


    Slightly puzzled, Zhong Shan''s attention was immediately drawn to Kui''er''s spirit tablet in the hall. His initial surprise turned into deep sorrow.


    Turning his head to look at Zhiguang''s corpse, Zhong Shan severed Zhiguang''s head with a single stroke and ced it before the spirit tablet.


    "Kui''er, I am sorry for being so powerless. Only today have I avenged you. This is just the first. Wait for me; I will use Crown Prince Lietian''s head to honor you someday."


    Meanwhile, in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, chaos erupted.


    Zhiguang Arhat was dead? His manifestation above the Sea of Merit had suddenly vanished. Was he truly dead? Indeed, he was. Quickly, information came from the entrance of the Pure Land confirming that Zhiguang Arhat had not exited. Thus, he had perished within the Pure Land.


    Who had killed Zhiguang Arhat?


    Immediately, numerous monks flew in all directions to investigate. Who would dare to kill an arhat within the Pure Land? Such audacity.


    After the offering, Zhong Shan dealt with Zhiguang Arhat''s corpse. He opened the grand hall and, with a flip of his hand, stored the entire hall into his storage bracelet, then looked at Nian Youyou.


    Nian Youyou stared at Zhong Shan with her mouth agape. Two had entered, but only one emerged, and the grand hall was now stored away. Zhiguang Arhat was indeed dead.


    "You... you really killed Zhiguang Arhat? How is that possible?" Nian Youyou asked, disbelief etched on her face.


    "Why would it be impossible?"


    "But your cultivation level is..."


    "My cultivation is low, but low cultivation doesn''t mean I can''t get things done. In the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, there are countless people with higher cultivation than mine, but how many have a higher status than me?" Zhong Shan retorted.


    "But, but..." Nian Youyou looked at the former location of the grand hall, then at Zhong Shan, and found herself at a loss for words.


    After all, dealing with someone at the Imperial Extremity realm was understandable, given Zhong Shan''smand over tens of thousands of troops. But now, he had been alone and had single-handedly killed Zhiguang Arhat?


    "By the way, what about the Bodhi seed?" Nian Youyou asked immediately.


    "I ate it," Zhong Shan replied honestly.


    "Ate it?" Nian Youyou looked at Zhong Shan in disbelief. How could that be possible?


    "If I didn''t eat it, would my cultivation have increased?" Zhong Shan said.


    Only then did Nian Youyou notice that Zhong Shan''s cultivation had indeed increased by one level. Had he really eaten it?


    Nian Youyou found herself more surprised than ever before. She could not say a word and just stared, speechless, for a moment before muttering, "It''s good that you ate it."


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan looked at Nian Youyou.


    "The Bodhi seed is a spiritual object of the Pure Land. It can''t be stored in a storage bracelet and would have been discovered eventually. But how is it possible that after consuming the Bodhi seed, you didn''t burst from the energy, and your strength increased by only a little, just one level? Nascent Soul stage, fourth level?" Nian Youyou remarked curiously.


    "I''m quite satisfied," Zhong Shan said bluntly.


    "Satisfied?" Nian Youyou rolled her eyes at Zhong Shan.


    The energy from the Bodhi seed could raise one''s level more than just once. If it were someone else at the Nascent Soul stage, they could have risen to the peak of the Integration stage or even the Imperial Extremity realm. Yet, Zhong Shan''s progress, just one level, was almost frustrating.


    "Alright, regardless, thank you for your help. I''ll do my best to catch the ''pet'' you''re looking for," Zhong Shan said.


    "What do you mean by ''do my best''? It has to be certain. I helped you a lot," Nian Youyou said, ring at him.


    "Uh, alright. But you need to tell me what kind of beast it is first. At least let me know its habits so that I can fulfill your request," Zhong Shan said with a wry smile.


    "That''s more like it," Nian Youyou replied.


    "Have you ever had a dream?" Nian Youyou asked again.


    Zhong Shan looked at her, speechless. Who hasn''t had a dream?


    "ording to my iplete conjecture, this Blue Sea of Refining Hearts was either created by this beast or it nurtured the beast. This little beast has a very magical ability; it can lead you into a dream. Then, while you are asleep, it secretly steals your fortune or merit," Nian Youyou exined.


    (To be continued.)

 Chapter 402: Xu Xian

    <h4>Chapter 402: Xu Xian</h4>


    "A dream?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "Yes, due to my bloodline inheritance, I can vaguely understand the situation upon waking. I''ve had several experiences; each time, because of it, I dreamt for a month. During that month, I was sound asleep, and it stayed by my side, within arm''s reach. As long as I could wake up, I could definitely catch it. It should be very easy, but I''ve never managed to wake up," Nian Youyou said with some frustration.


    "Uh, a dream? A month in the dream?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No, a hundred years in the dream. Outside, I slept for a month, but in the dream world, it was a hundred years," Nian Youyou exined.


    "A hundred years?" Zhong Shan''s mouth fell open.


    "Yes, you have to realize you''re dreaming within those hundred years and find a way to wake yourself up," Nian Youyou said.


    "You realized it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I''ve been led into the dream nine times while trying to catch it. One time, I strangely realized that the world wasn''t real, that I was dreaming, but I couldn''t wake up. I told someone in the dream about it, and suddenly, everyone in the dream world disappeared. It became empty and deste. I couldn''t cultivate, so I spent thirty lonely years in a deserted ce until people started appearing again out of thin air," Nian Youyou recounted, a hint of fear in her voice.


    "Thirty years, with nothing to do but wait in solitude?" Zhong Shan remarked with a sigh.


    It would take immense psychological strength to endure that. People find it hard to handle even a few days of solitary confinement. She endured thirty years? How did she manage?


    "Yes, when people appeared again, I was so happy. I talked nonstop, pouring out all my loneliness. It took another ten years for me to gather the courage to try again. I chose tomit suicide," Nian Youyou said.


    "Suicide?" Zhong Shan looked at Nian Youyou.


    That would take even more courage. Suicide? Which cultivator would have the bravery to give up the chance of immortality?


    "But aftermitting suicide, I discovered it still didn''t work. I was just taken into another dream. This continued until a hundred years had passed, and the outside month ended. The little beast had long since run off," Nian Youyou exined.


    Zhong Shan was dumbfounded.


    "Later, I brought someone with me to the Blue Sea of Refinement. Using my method, we went deep inside again and encountered the little beast. We both entered the dream, but it was the same dream. It was my dream, with some scenes he''d never seen but somehow found familiar. We had a dispute, a life-and-death battle, and I killed him. Then we entered another different dream. This continued until the hundred years ended," Nian Youyou said.


    "So, it''s impossible to wake up?" Zhong Shan said strangely.


    "No, nine experiences taught me something. It''s not impossible to wake up; two possibilities exist," Nian Youyou said.


    "Two? What are they?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "The first is to realize you''re dreaming, like I did that one time," Nian Youyou said.


    "Hmm! And the second?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The second is for the people in the dream to reject you, kill you, causing the dream to expel you. That would wake you up, wouldn''t it?" Nian Youyou said.


    "Uh, that kind of makes sense," Zhong Shan thought for a moment and said strangely.


    "But, since it''s your dream, the people in it are created by you. How could they kill or reject you? Even if someone in the dream wanted to kill you, due to your self-preservation instinct, another ''hero'' would definitely save you. So, it''s too difficult!" Nian Youyou said, frowning.


    "Mm!" Zhong Shan nodded, frowning in deep thought.


    "You are the most extraordinary person I''ve ever met. I believe you can do it," Nian Youyou said.


    "Me?" Zhong Shan felt a bit strange. I''m not a god, he thought.


    "Yes, if you could even kill Zhiguang Arhat, what can''t you do?" Nian Youyou''s eyes gleamed with confidence.


    What could Zhong Shan say? These were two entirely unrted matters. Killing Zhiguang Arhat involved using the ck Jade Talisman, while his previous dreams were without any artifacts.


    "Let''s go. Since we''re already here, I''ll go with you to take a look," Zhong Shan said.


    "Mm!" Nian Youyou nodded.


    She grabbed Zhong Shan''s hand and quickly led him deeper into the Blue Sea of Refinement.


    Gradually, the illusions Zhong Shan saw became deeper and more realistic. A few times, he nearly got lost in them, but fortunately, Nian Youyou held onto him.


    "There''s a mountain ahead. Stop, we''re going to hit it!" Zhong Shan shouted as he saw the mountain ahead.


    Nian Youyou smiled slightly and pulled Zhong Shan right into the mountain.


    "Whoosh��������������������������������������"


    It wasn''t a mountain at all, just another illusion.


    Zhong Shan swallowed, continuously reminding himself that everything here was fake, not to believe any of it.


    "We''re almost there. Be careful," Nian Youyou said.


    "Mm!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    Just as he agreed, Zhong Shan saw another illusion��a ball of blue light rushing towards him and Nian Youyou.


    Zhong Shan knew it was another illusion but instinctively moved in front of Nian Youyou to protect her.


    The blue light passed through both of their bodies.


    Then, they both copsed into a deep sleep on the ground.


    "Yiyi yiyi yiyi yiyi"


    With a series of strange sounds, a blue furball the size of a fist bounced over. Covered in blue fur, it looked like a small plush toy with two thin legs, tiny hands that couldn''t p together, a thin tail, and shiny ck eyes that darted around adorably.


    The little furball hopped over to them, jumping onto Zhong Shan''s stomach, then onto Nian Youyou''s stomach, happily bouncing for a while. Seeing that they were both sound asleep, it let out another cheerful cry.


    "Yiyi yiyi yiyi yiyi"


    Both of them were now in a deep sleep, encountering the little beast that Nian Youyou had mentioned, and were brought into a dream. But what kind of dream would it be?


    The sky was gloomy.


    "Boom��������������������������������������"


    A thunderp sounded, and it started to rain. The rain quickly intensified.


    Zhong Shan, dressed in white like a schr, stood with a group of people at the pier of argeke, waiting for a ferry to dock.


    "It''s raining! It''s raining!" The people around him shouted in panic and quickly scattered like birds and beasts.


    In an instant, only Zhong Shan was left, standing there, bewildered, watching the rain pour down. He felt as if he had forgotten something, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn''t remember.


    Just then, a small boat slowly sailed across theke.


    "Boatman, boatman!" Zhong Shan stopped thinking about what he had forgotten and called out.


    The small boat slowly approached.


    "Thank you, boatman, thank you!" Zhong Shan excitedly jumped onto the boat, grateful that it had finally arrived.


    The boatman, d in a raincoat, was at the stern, maneuvering the boat. Zhong Shan entered the cabin and saw Nian Youyou, dressed in white, sitting there gracefully, looking stunningly beautiful. Seeing her, Zhong Shan was momentarily mesmerized, staring nkly at her for a while.


    "This gentleman," Nian Youyou called out, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Oh, sorry, miss. I... I lost myposure just now," Zhong Shan quickly apologized, looking embarrassed.


    Nian Youyou smiled gently and said, "Please, sir, have a seat. We''re all travelers here; there''s no need to stand on ceremony."


    "Alright!" Zhong Shan, feeling somewhat awkward, sat down.


    Once seated, Zhong Shan didn''t know what to say. Love at first sight? This feeling was so strange. He wanted to talk to the beautiful woman in white across from him but didn''t know how to start a conversation and was afraid of offending her.


    The cabin felt somewhat stuffy.


    "The scenery outside is truly beautiful," Nian Youyoumented, looking out.


    Zhong Shan seized the opportunity and said, "They say heaven is above and Suzhou and Hangzhou below. The beauty of West Lake is world-renowned."


    "May I ask, sir, are you a local?" Nian Youyou asked, smiling at Zhong Shan.


    "My surname is Xu, given name Xian, courtesy name Hanwen," Zhong Shan hastily introduced himself.


    Hearing his introduction, Nian Youyou chuckled.


    "Why does thedyugh?" Zhong Shan asked, feeling a bit awkward.


    "Sir Xu, I was asking if you are a local," Nian Youyou replied with a smile.


    Only then did Zhong Shan realize he had misunderstood. Blushing, he said, "My name is Xu Xian, from Qiantang. My family has been in the herb trade for generations. Unfortunately, my parents passed away early. Today, I came to visit their graves for the Qingming Festival and decided to tour West Lake. I didn''t expect to meet such a lovelydy. May I ask for your name?"


    Nian Youyou smiled warmly and said, "My name is Bai Suzhen. Ie from Furong City in Sichuan. My father was once an official, butst year, my parents both passed away. With no one to rely on, I came to seek out rtives, only to find they had long since moved away. I now temporarily reside at Qingbo Gate."


    "It must be lonely for ady to live here alone," Zhong Shan remarked with sympathy.


    "No, I have a younger sister, Xiaoqing. Qing''er has always been with me, so I am not lonely," Nian Youyou shook her head and smiled.


    At this moment, the boat suddenly began to rock violently, swaying as if it might capsize. Nian Youyou stumbled, about to fall, and Zhong Shan stepped forward to steady her.


    "Miss Bai, are you alright?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I''m fine, thank you, Sir Xu," Nian Youyou replied.


    "Sister, sister!" A faint voice called from outside the boat.


    "Huh? What''s that sound?" Zhong Shan looked out immediately.


    Nian Youyou, however, nced at the other side of the boat. Amidst the noise of the rain, she called out softly, "Qing''er, stop ying around. We''ll talkter."


    "Who were you talking to just now?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No one, I was just saying the rain is too heavy," Nian Youyou quickly diverted his attention. Meanwhile, in theke, a giant green snake swam swiftly.

 Chapter 403: Super Xu Xian

    <h4>Chapter 403: Super Xu Xian</h4>


    On their wedding night, Zhong Shan lifted Nian Youyou''s red bridal veil.


    "Bai Gu-niang, you are so beautiful!" Zhong Shan said, utterly captivated.


    "Husband, you still call me Bai Gu-niang?" Nian Youyou blushed.


    "Oh, my wife, look at me," Zhong Shan said, feeling both embarrassed and blissfully happy.


    Zhong Shan picked up two cups of wine from the table. He handed one to Nian Youyou and held the other himself.


    "It takes a hundred years of cultivation to share the same boat, and a thousand years to share the same pillow. My dear wife, being able to marry you is my fortune. At this moment, my heart is filled with gratitude��grateful to heaven for letting me meet you, grateful to you for bing my wife. With this cup, I toast to you!" Zhong Shan said, his voice slightly trembling with emotion.


    "Mm," Nian Youyou nodded.


    After they drank, Zhong Shan ced the two cups back on the table and blew out the candle.


    "Husband, let me help you undress," Nian Youyou said.


    Zhong Shan (Xu Xian) felt as if he were dreaming. A poor boy from a medicine shop had married such a fairy-like beauty. This happiness was indescribable, and for a while, Zhong Shan was lost in bliss.


    However, happiness is often fleeting, reced by endless suffering and sighs.


    One mistake by the maid Xiaoqing led to Zhong Shan being used of stealing government silver and exiled to Suzhou for three years.


    Zhong Shan (Xu Xian) began his trials, but thanks to Nian Youyou''s (Bai Suzhen) secret protection, he faced no real danger, and soon the couple reunited.


    Along the way, they encountered a toad daoist. With Nian Youyou''s (Bai Suzhen) magic and wisdom, they defeated him soundly.


    The couple''s love endured. The three years of exile in Suzhou passed quickly with their mutual support.


    After three years, they returned to Hangzhou. However, the differences between humans and demons eventually led them to their ultimate nemesis, Fahai.


    "Amitabha!" Fahai intoned, forcibly abducting Zhong Shan to Jinshan Temple in Zhenjiang.


    In her rage, Nian Youyou (Bai Suzhen) and Xiaoqing raised a thousand waves, drawing water from the East Sea to flood Jinshan Temple.


    Atop Jinshan Temple, Zhong Shan (Xu Xian) finally witnessed the immense power of cultivators��rivers overturning, flooding Jinshan Temple.


    Fahai proved formidable, using his kasaya to summon countless golden bricks, quickly building a levee. As the water rose, so did the levee. In the end, Nian Youyou (Bai Suzhen) had to withdraw temporarily.


    Soon after, Zhong Shan (Xu Xian) escaped from Jinshan Temple, leaving Fahai to sigh in despair.


    Returning to Qiantang, the couple reunited.


    "I was that little shepherd boy? My dear wife, why didn''t you tell me sooner?" Zhong Shan said, suddenly realizing, holding Nian Youyou''s hand tightly.


    "Husband!" Nian Youyou blushed.


    Xiaoqing tactfully left the room, reluctantly giving the couple onest look before closing the door.


    Nian Youyou nced at Xiaoqing, then blushed as Zhong Shan carried her back to bed, fulfilling their longing with rain and dew.


    Zhong Shan now knew that there were many cultivators in the world and that two of them were beside him.


    Looking at Nian Youyou, Zhong Shan gently caressed her smooth back and said, "It takes a hundred years of cultivation to share the same boat, and a thousand years to share the same pillow. Truly, our bond is a millennium in the making."


    "Mm!" Nian Youyou nodded.


    Their days of happiness began anew.


    Until half a yearter.


    "My dear wife, I have a son, I have a son!" Zhong Shan shouted excitedly.


    "Mm!" Nian Youyou smiled softly, gently stroking her belly.


    That night, Zhong Shan once again made love to Nian Youyou. Afterward, as theyy in bed, Zhong Shan caressed Nian Youyou''s smooth body and asked with augh, "My dear, do you think our child will be born from an egg or a live birth? Will it be a ''snake egg'' or a ''baby''? What if a snake egg scares the midwife?"


    Nian Youyou blushed and yfully scolded, "I''ve already achieved my true form, shedding my snake body to be human, so naturally, I''ll give birth to a baby."


    "Haha! Forgive me, my dear!" Zhong Shanughed.


    "My husband, what is this? Why do you always carry it with you?" Nian Youyou asked, taking two objects from Zhong Shan''s clothes.


    One was a ck bag, and the other was a green crystal.


    "This? It was passed down from my ancestors," Zhong Shan exined with a smile.


    "This ck bag can''t be opened, and the green crystal is very strange. But from this, we can see that your ancestors must have been cultivators too," Nian Youyou said, lying on Zhong Shan''s chest.


    "Is that so?" Zhong Shan said, puzzled.


    "Of course. This is a storage bracelet; every cultivator has one to store inanimate objects. Your two items can''t be stored in the bracelet, which means they must have a spirit. With a spirit, they can''t be stored," Nian Youyou exined.


    "Really? Could they be some powerful artifacts?" Zhong Shan mused, holding the two items�� the ''Bat Bag'' and the ''Soul-Searching Stone''.


    He looked at them closely. Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s expression froze.


    "What''s wrong?" Nian Youyou asked, puzzled.


    "Don''t talk. Let me think," Zhong Shan said.


    Nian Youyou remained silent, lying on Zhong Shan''s chest, listening to his heartbeat, and watching his increasingly serious expression.


    "My dear, you said this crystal can''t be stored in the bracelet?" Zhong Shan suddenly asked.


    "Yes, I tried on our wedding night but never mentioned it," Nian Youyou nodded.


    "Our wedding night? How long have we known each other?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "From our first meeting at West Lake, then your exile to Suzhou for three years, encountering Fahai, the flood at Jinshan Temple, and just a few days ago, the centipede demon. It''s been almost four years," Nian Youyou said.


    "Four years? That''s over a thousand days. And this crystal still can''t be stored in the bracelet?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed, and his pupils contracted.


    In a sh, Zhong Shan understood everything. A thousand days��the Soul-Searching Stone. Someone had once told him that after a thousand days, it could be stored in the bracelet. Zhong Shan had always remembered this, but even after a thousand days, it still couldn''t be stored.


    It hadn''t been a thousand days. This was a dream. Everything was a dream.


    In that moment, Zhong Shan realized the truth. He was dreaming. He wasn''t Xu Xian; he was Zhong Shan.


    "Husband?" Nian Youyou asked, concerned.


    Zhong Shan looked down at the naked Nian Youyou in his arms, blushing slightly, feeling a bit strange.


    Nian Youyou? Bai Suzhen? Instinctively, Zhong Shan wanted to push her away, but as he held her, he suddenly thought of something.


    "It''s nothing. Let''s sleep," Zhong Shan reassured her.


    "Mm," Nian Youyou nodded and fell asleep. Pregnant women sleep very well, but Zhong Shan couldn''t sleep. Holding Nian Youyou, he felt a strange sensation.


    In the quiet of the night, Zhong Shan''s mind raced. He had realized he was dreaming, but this dream felt so real, so tangible. The weight of Nian Youyou in his arms, the warmth of her body, the softness of her skin��it all felt genuine.


    He contemted his next move. If this was a dream, he needed to find a way to wake up. But the emotional attachment he felt for Nian Youyou, even if she was just a dream figure,plicated things. How could he leave her behind? How could he abandon this happiness, even if it was false?


    Zhong Shan decided he would find a way out of the dream, but not before cherishing these moments a little longer. He tightened his embrace around Nian Youyou, feeling the steady rhythm of her breathing, and silently vowed to carry the warmth of this dream into his waking life.


    Damn it, I''ve be Xu Xian? And I''m holding Bai Suzhen in my arms? No, it''s Nian Youyou. I don''t know if she''s real or just a figment of my imagination. If she entered my dream, things could getplicated. We''ve lived as husband and wife for four years and even had a child together. What a shock it will be if I wake up.


    Should I tell her? No, if she''s imaginary, revealing it to her could plunge me into decades of solitude and loneliness.


    Xu Xian? Bai Suzhen? Fahai?


    Zhong Shan''s expression was bizarre, yet he clearly knew what would happen next. His son Xu Shilin would be born, but his wife would be captured and imprisoned under the Leifeng Pagoda by Fahai.


    There was at most half a year left.


    To wake up, he needed to find a way out. Making the dream people reject him wasn''t something that could be done quickly. He needed a n. Meanwhile, he would continue this dream, ying the role of ''Xu Xian.''


    Zhong Shan tightened his embrace around Nian Youyou and closed his eyes to sleep.


    In the following days, Xu Xian in Bai Suzhen''s eyes changed. Xu Xian no longer sat in the Baoantang clinic but instead hired an old physician to take his ce. He sold off household items to raise capital and started a business.


    Bai Suzhen was astonished, as was Xiaoqing.


    "Master, you''re doing business? Are you short of money? Do you need the Five Little Ghosts to help you?" Xiaoqing asked.


    "No need, do I need help to do business?" Zhong Shan said with a confident smile.


    Yes, confidence. Who could match Zhong Shan''s confidence in business? Especially in a dream, a ce perfect for such fantasies.


    Initially, Xiaoqing didn''t believe it. She thought her brother-inw was silly and naive, how could he do business? But four monthster, when Xiaoqing saw Xu Xian secretly buying a small courtyard, she was furious, thinking he was keeping a woman there behind her sister''s back.


    Since Bai Suzhen''s belly was getting bigger, Xiaoqing didn''t tell her sister. Instead, she secretly followed Xu Xian to the courtyard.


    "Did today''s funds arrive?" Zhong Shan asked a subordinate.


    "They''ve been moved into the cer. But, do we need to expand the cer?" the subordinate asked.


    "Do I need to teach you that? Without expansion, where will we put the money in the future?" Zhong Shan said, ring.


    Xiaoqing saw a different side of Xu Xian for the first time, feeling puzzled. She hid and followed Zhong Shan into the courtyard and down to the so-called cer.


    Cer? This was no cer; it was a treasury. In a vast hall, gold and silver were constantly being transported in.


    Gold, a mountain of gold.


    Xiaoqing''s jaw dropped. She returned home secretly, staying in her room for a long time to calm down.


    Four months? Xu Xian had robbed a treasury? That much money? While money is a worldly possession, Xiaoqing knew how hard it was to earn money honestly. Xu Xian wasn''t earning money; he was robbing it. No, even robbing couldn''t be this fast.


    One thing was very strange: in Xu Xian''s wealth-gatheringwork, apart from a few people directlymanded by him, no one else knew Xu Xian.

 Chapter 404: Xu Xian, A True Man of Zhongshan

    <h4>Chapter 404: Xu Xian, A True Man of Zhongshan</h4>


    Xu Xian''s speed in amassing wealth was astonishing! Even Xiao Qing began to wonder if Xu Xian was the reincarnation of the God of Wealth. Yet, even the God of Wealth might not be as extravagant as Xu Xian, for the deity relied on magic while Xu Xian built his fortune from scratch.


    Gradually, Xiao Qing''s disdain for Xu Xian transformed into admiration. However, their happy days were destined to end.


    What was bound to happen finally arrived. As Bai Suzhen gave birth to a chubby baby boy and the family basked in joy, their ultimate nemesis, Master Fahai, stormed into their home. Seizing the moment when Bai Suzhen was weak from childbirth, he captured her in his alms bowl and swiftly fled.


    Xiao Qing, wounded from her pursuit, eventually returned.


    "Master, Sister has been imprisoned in the Leifeng Pagoda by that demon monk Fahai. What should we do?" Xiao Qing cried, her face streaked with tears.


    At this moment, Xu Xian, also known as Zhongshan, remained exceptionally calm. The time hade.


    Wiping Xiao Qing''s tears, Zhongshan said, "Don''t worry! Leave it to me!"


    With that, Zhongshan entrusted their ''son'' to his sister and set out, with Xiao Qing following helplessly behind.


    Zhongshan went straight to the courtyard where his savings were kept. Upon entering, Xiao Qing saw that the underground treasury was empty; all the money had been moved.


    "Master, are you sure about this?" a servant asked, worried.


    "Afraid of what? With so much money, who wouldn''t risk their life for us? Hurry up and do as I say," Zhongshanmanded.


    "Yes, sir!" the servant replied promptly.


    "Master, what are you nning? How will we rescue Sister?" Xiao Qing asked, full of concern.


    "Just follow my instructions. When the timees, do exactly as I tell you!" Zhongshan said, looking at Xiao Qing.


    "Alright!" Xiao Qing nodded. At that moment, she realized she understood Xu Xian less and less.


    Three monthster.


    At the foot of the Leifeng Pagoda, in front of Jingci Temple by West Lake in Hangzhou, Zhongshan, along with Xiao Qing, had captured thirty unlucky monks, tying them up beneath the pagoda.


    Zhongshan had turned to the act of kidnapping.


    In Jinshan Temple, Fahai sat in the meditation courtyard, feeling uneasy as if something bad was about to happen. He walked out and saw a monk.


    "Where is Liu Jing?" Fahai asked.


    Liu Jing was Fahai''s most promising disciple, with remarkable wisdom and potential.


    "Master, ten days ago, Brother Liu Jing went down the mountain for alms and never returned. Moreover..." the monk hesitated.


    "Moreover, what?" Fahai asked sternly.


    "Moreover, I found that your thirty disciples have all disappeared. It has been ten days since anyone has seen them," the monk reported.


    Fahai frowned deeply upon hearing this and began to calcte with his fingers.


    "Master, someone just delivered a letter for you," another monk hurried over.


    Fahai stopped his calctions and opened the letter immediately. Inside, there was only one sentence:


    "Fahai, all your disciples are in my hands. Come to Leifeng Pagoda within one hour. For every moment you''rete, I will kill one, until they are all dead."


    Reading this, anger shed in Fahai''s eyes. Crushing the letter in his hand, he looked to the sky, stomped his foot, and soared into the air, flying swiftly toward West Lake in Hangzhou.


    At West Lake, under the Leifeng Pagoda.


    Zhongshan, apanied by Xiao Qing, held thirty terrified monks hostage. From a distance, the monks of Jingci Temple red angrily, wielding their staffs. At the Leifeng Pagoda, two golden guardians leaped out, confronting Xiao Qing.


    "Benefactor, release these monks, and we can talk this over peacefully!" the abbot of Jingci Temple called out, attempting to calm Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan paid no heed and instead looked up at the sky.


    "The time is almost up. An hour is nearly over, and Fahai still hasn''t arrived. So, who shall I start with?" Zhongshan nced at the bound monks, his hand reaching for one. Grabbing a monk, Zhongshan ced a sword against his throat.


    "Please, no! Benefactor, I beg you, don''t do this!" the monk cried out in fear.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    An enraged Fahai descended from the sky, ring furiously at Zhongshan and Xiao Qing.


    "Xu Xian~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Fahai eximed in shock.


    "Fahai, you finally arrived!" Zhongshan said in a low voice.


    "Hmph," Fahai snorted, ready to strike. A red light shot from his hand towards the sword in Zhongshan''s grasp, aiming to break it and save his disciple.


    "Master, no~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" the kidnapped monk cried out in panic.


    "Liujing, what are you doing?" Fahai stopped, puzzled.


    Liujing, with a mournful face, said, "There''s another knife at my back."


    Fahai: "..."


    Behind Liujing, Zhongshan held another knife against his back.


    "Xu Xian, you are so deceitful!" Fahai roared.


    "Master Fahai, you''re too harsh. Back then, you kidnapped me to Jinshan Temple, luring my wife and Xiao Qing to flood the temple to save me. Wasn''t that deceitful? I kidnap your disciples and it''s called deceitful, but you kidnap another''s husband and it''s called noble? The Buddha said all beings are equal. You allow yourself to be deceitful, but I''m not allowed the same? Do you even understand what equality among all beings means?" Zhongshan rebuked angrily.


    Fahai''s face turned crimson with anger from Zhongshan''s reprimand, while Xiao Qing felt a sense of satisfaction listening to it.


    The monks of Jingci Temple chanted "Amitabha" in unison.


    Inside Leifeng Pagoda, Bai Suzhen leaned against the door, feeling deeply moved by Zhongshan''s words.


    "Xu Xian, the union of a human and a demon goes against the natural order. It is not tolerated by the heavens. I urge you to awaken to this truth and return to the right path," Fahai took a deep breath, calming his anger, and spoke solemnly.


    "Bah!" Zhongshan spat angrily.


    "Union of a human and a demon goes against the natural order? When did the heavens ever show disapproval? If it truly was against the natural order, heavenly lightning would have struck me down long ago. You, a deceitful monk, have the audacity to defy the heavens? Parading around in monk''s robes, deceiving others under the guise of heaven''s will. Who told you the right path is to turn back? I''m nearing the shore ahead, and you want me to row back?" Zhongshan retorted furiously.


    "You..." Fahai pointed at Zhongshan, trembling with anger.


    "Bai Suzhen flooded Jinshan Temple, causing untold suffering and countless deaths. I am carrying out heaven''s will," Fahai said in a low, stern voice.


    "If you hadn''t deceitfully kidnapped me, would my wife have flooded Jinshan Temple? If not for you, would those people have died? Go to Suzhou and ask how many people are alive because of my wife. Carrying out heaven''s will? Why don''t you strike yourself down?" Zhongshan roared back.


    "Benefactor, you are blinded by mortal eyes and cannot see the truth of the world. I do not me you. Release my disciples, and I will not pursue past grievances," Fahai said, trying to keep his voice calm.


    "I may have mortal eyes, but spare me your sanctimonious attitude. The Buddha said all beings are equal. If you don''t correct your stance, you''re just insulting the Buddha with nonsense," Zhongshan shouted back.


    "You..." Fahai was truly enraged.


    Xiao Qing felt a mix of satisfaction and worry for Xu Xian.


    "What do you want?" Fahai asked in a low voice.


    "Open the Leifeng Pagoda and release my wife, now!" Zhongshan demanded.


    "I have already reported the suppression of Bai Suzhen to the Heavenly Court. Such a great demon must be subdued. If you continue this, the celestial soldiers will arrive and cast you into Avici Hell," Fahai replied coldly.


    "Husband, go quickly, don''t worry about me!" Bai Suzhen cried from within the Leifeng Pagoda.


    "No, I will not leave until I rescue my wife today," Zhongshan responded firmly.


    "Xiao Qing, take him away quickly," Bai Suzhen pleaded with Xiao Qing.


    "Sister," Xiao Qing said, torn.


    "Don''t try to persuade Xiao Qing. Today, we came to take you away. If we can''t, neither Xiao Qing nor I n to leave alive," Zhongshan dered.


    Hearing this, Xiao Qing''s hesitant expression turned resolute. Even if it meant dying, she was determined to rescue her sister.


    "Husband!" Bai Suzhen cried, moved to tears.


    "Xu Xian, enough talk. Release them now, or don''t me me for being merciless," Fahai said coldly.


    "Merciless? When have you ever shown me mercy? You bald donkey, I know the Leifeng Pagoda is sealed with your spell, only you can open it. Will you open it, or not? We''re ready to start killing. Do you really want to watch your disciples go to hell?" Zhongshan''s eyes shed with cold determination.


    "Liujing, if I don''t go to hell, who will?" Fahai said solemnly.


    "Master, save us! I don''t want to die!" the bound monks cried out in despair.


    "Yes, you only deceive these foolish monks into dying for you. Why don''t you go to hell yourself? If you did, they could live. I could reunite with my wife, and you could trade your divine punishment for so many lives. You could boast to King Yama that you were a true monk," Zhongshan sneered.


    "Hmph!" Fahai grunted angrily and moved to strike.


    "Xiao Qing, kill!" Zhongshan''s eyes turned cold.


    "Shhh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Xiao Qing struck, and all thirty monks fell into pools of blood.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Fahai struck with a powerful blow. Xiao Qing shielded Zhongshan and was injured, spitting blood.


    Zhongshan quickly embraced her.


    "Husband, Xiao Qing, you must leave," Bai Suzhen cried from the pagoda.


    "Such a heart, such cruelty, such demonic nature. Leaving you in this world would only cause more harm," Fahai said, ring at Zhongshan and Xiao Qing.


    The monks of Jingci Temple, previously swayed by Zhongshan''s words, now looked at him with furious eyes.


    "Master, you must leave!" Xiao Qing said weakly, clutching Zhongshan.


    "Ha ha ha ha!" Zhongshanughed wildly, then turned to Fahai with a cold gaze.


    Everyone looked at Zhongshan (Xu Xian) curiously. Had he gone mad?


    "Fahai!" Zhongshan called out.


    Fahai paused.


    "I said you would open the Leifeng Pagoda, because the Buddha will make you," Zhongshan said coldly.


    "Hmph, demonic words to deceive the masses!" Fahai retorted angrily.


    "Demonic words? Aren''t you good at calctions? Calcte now and see what''s happening at your Jinshan Temple," Zhongshan said, a cold smile ying at the corners of his mouth.

 Chapter 405: Angering All the Buddhas

    <h4>Chapter 405: Angering All the Buddhas</h4>


    "Demonic words to deceive the masses? Aren''t you good at calctions? Calcte now and see what''s happening at your Jinshan Temple," Zhongshan said, a cold smile ying at his lips.


    Fahai red at Xu Xian, frowning as he began to calcte. Halfway through, his eyes widened in shock.


    In Zhenjiang at Jinshan Temple.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The ground shook violently as the entire Jinshan Mountain copsed. The Jinshan Temple turned into a pile of rubble, countless monks were killed in the explosion, buried under the debris.


    Jinshan Temple was destroyed. Under Zhongshan''s orders, a hundred tons of explosives were buried in a cave within Jinshan Mountain, detonating and reducing the thousand-year-old temple to ruins.


    "Bastard~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Fahai roared in fury.


    "Master Fahai, what is happening?" the abbot of Jingci Temple asked in rm.


    In Zhongshan''s arms, the severely injured Xiao Qing also asked, "Master, what happened?"


    "What happened? Look behind you, Abbot of Jingci Temple, and you''ll understand," Zhongshan said with a coldugh.


    "No~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Fahai tried to turn and rush toward Jingci Temple, but it was toote.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The entire Jingci Temple was instantly blown to bits, reduced to a heap of rubble.


    It was as if heavenly lightning had struck, obliterating everything in an instant. Smoke filled the air, the acrid smell of gunpowder everywhere.


    Everyone turned to Zhongshan, their faces twisted in anger.


    "What? Angry? Hmph, Fahai, you rely on your superior magical powers to trample us mortals. Did you ever consider that we mortals could also wield such power? You can kill me now, but I must tell you, if my wife is not released immediately, within ten days, every temple and every Buddhist relic in the Song Dynasty will be blown up like Jinshan Temple," Zhongshan said with a wicked smile.


    "How dare you!" Fahai roared.


    "Dare I? I''ve already set everything in motion. Any dy could change everything. It took the Buddhist sect a long time to establish itself in thisnd, winning the hearts of mortals. Do you know how much effort the Buddha put into this? From Bodhidharma''s journey east to Tang Sanzang''s pilgrimage for scriptures, how long did the Buddha meticulously n? Do you want to destroy all temples for your selfish desires? Even if I die, the Buddha won''t spare you, the eternal sinner," Zhongshan said coldly.


    "Of course, you can try to save them, but I don''t believe you can save them all. From now on, every moment, a temple will be blown up, not simultaneously but sequentially. The longer you wait, the more temples will be destroyed. Keep waiting, I''ll wait with you!" Zhongshan''s voice grew louder and more menacing.


    Looking at Xu Xian now, was this still the foolish and gullible Xu Xian of the past, easily manipted and trampled upon? No, he was a demon, more terrifying than the billions of evil spirits suppressed by King Yama. Beneath that frail bodyy a soul of immense terror.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" .......


    Indeed, as time passed, everyone standing under Leifeng Pagoda could hear the explosions. One after another, temples across Hangzhou exploded violently.


    Themoners watched the temples blow up, filled with extreme panic. Had the Buddha been punished by the heavens?


    "Oh, by the way, at each temple explosion site, I left a stone inscription, just like that one," Zhongshan pointed to an inconspicuous stone inscription at the edge of Jingci Temple''s ruins with a smile.


    Only then did everyone notice. Upon closer inspection, they saw a bold inscription carved on it:


    "Fahai swears to destroy all the Buddhas of the world!"


    Fahai stared in shock at the stone inscription. Xu Xian was framing him for the destruction.


    "Hmm, by now there should be about fifty temples that Master Fahai has destroyed with his own hands. What a benevolent act!" Zhongshan said, leaning against the Leifeng Pagoda gate, holding the injured Xiao Qing. He closed his eyes, waiting.


    Fahai''s face turned red with rage, trembling as he raised his hand to strike Zhongshan, but he hesitated.


    "Fifty-five temples now," Zhongshan said, wiping the blood from the corner of Xiao Qing''s mouth.


    Xiao Qing, lying in Zhongshan''s arms, wore a strange smile.


    "Fifty-eight temples," Zhongshan continued, keeping track of the time.


    While Zhongshan calcted, Fahai used divination. He realized that, as Zhongshan said, more and more temples were being destroyed, all signed in Fahai''s name.


    "I will open it!" Fahai said, seething with anger.


    "Well, Master Fahai, don''t look so reluctant. If you are unwilling, my wife, Xiao Qing, and I can wait. Take your time until you are ready, until you have no more mental burdens, and then reunite us," Zhongshan said, suddenly unhurried.


    "Pfft!" Xiao Qingughed suddenly.


    "Hmph!" Fahai had no more time to waste.


    In the meantime, two more temples were blown up.


    "Om Mani Padme Hum," Fahai chanted, and the Leifeng Pagoda emitted billions of golden rays.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The gate of the Leifeng Pagoda suddenly burst open.


    "Husband!" Bai Suzhen (Nian Youyou) rushed out and embraced Zhongshan tightly.


    Zhongshan, Bai Suzhen, and Xiao Qing held each other tightly.


    "Master Fahai, didn''t you report to the heavens? Aren''t you afraid of divine punishment? How could you open the gate of the Leifeng Pagoda?" Zhongshan taunted.


    "I have released them. Now stop this!" Fahai demanded angrily.


    "Husband, now all the Buddhas must hate us," Bai Suzhen said worriedly.


    "Let them hate. What needs to be blown up will still be blown up. I arranged for everything to be destroyed by tonight, not in ten days. Besides, I am a mere mortal. How could I stop it? I just hired some people, and I can''t even contact them," Zhongshan said with a bitter smile.


    "Husband, how could that be?" Bai Suzhen said, incredulous.


    "As long as I can save you, I am satisfied. Take Xiao Qing and leave. Let me bear the wrath of the Buddhas alone. Let me take on this burden alone!" Zhongshan pushed Xiao Qing and Bai Suzhen away.


    "No~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Bai Suzhen, Xiao Qing, and Fahai shouted simultaneously.


    Fahai couldn''t believe it, while Xiao Qing and Bai Suzhen were unwilling to leave.


    The two women clung to Zhongshan.


    "If Master dies, I will die with him," Xiao Qing cried.


    Bai Suzhen looked at Xiao Qing and embraced Zhongshan, saying, "Husband and wife are a unity. If you die, how can I live alone? I will die with you. Let Xiao Qing be your concubine."


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Fahai, already enraged by Xu Xian, heard that Xu Xian couldn''t stop the explosions and felt his fury reach its peak.


    In Fahai''s hands, the massive alms bowl transformed into a gigantic fireball, hurling fiercely towards the three people huddled together.


    Nian Youyou and Xiao Qing faced their fate with a look of resolute determination. Meanwhile, Zhongshan held them close, a sly smile ying at the corners of his lips.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The three of them perished together beneath Leifeng Pagoda. The world seemed to copse, and the dream shattered��


    In the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, in the Blue Sea of Heart Refinement, Zhongshan and Nian Youyouy together, deeply asleep.


    A small blue furball bounced happily on Zhongshan''s belly, radiating joy. The little furball had put the two of them to sleep and was now gleefully devouring their umted merit and luck, feeling immensely satisfied.


    The furball was so overjoyed with its feast that it lost track of everything else.


    "Squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak," the furball chirped merrily. It leaped from Zhongshan''s belly into the air, waiting to bounce back down again.


    "p~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, a pair of hands appeared out of nowhere, catching the furball in mid-air.


    The furball was momentarily stunned, unable toprehend what had just happened. Then, realizing the situation, it began to shriek in terror.


    "Squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak," it cried, struggling to escape the grip of the hands, which held it with the force of a thousand tons.


    As the furball looked down in horror, it saw Zhongshan''s eyes snap open.


    He was awake?


    "Squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak," the furball screamed, utterly terrified. How could he be awake?


    "Little one, is my belly that bouncy? You seem to be having a lot of fun," Zhongshan said, looking at the furball.


    "Squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak," the furball cried pitiably, trying to break free, but to no avail.


    At that moment, Nian Youyou, who had been sleeping beside Zhongshan, suddenly started talking in her sleep.


    "A husband and wife are one; if you die, how can I live alone? If you die, I will apany you. Let Qing''er be your concubine," she murmured.


    "Qing''er as a concubine, the three of us together," Nian Youyou said loudly and suddenly woke up.


    Her emotions were turbulent, and once awake, she sat up abruptly, locking eyes with Zhongshan. She was still muttering, "Qing''er as a concubine."


    "What about Qing''er?" Zhongshan asked with a smile.


    "Qing''er as a... ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh," Nian Youyou began to respond but then screamed in surprise.


    Her scream startled Zhongshan, making him nearly lose his grip on the furball.


    Nian Youyou finally calmed down, realizing it had all been a dream. She looked at Zhongshan, breathing heavily, and then at the furball.


    "Squeak, squeak," the furball cried pitifully.


    Nian Youyou blushed, realizing she must have been inside Zhongshan''s dream since she had no memory of that scene herself.


    "Here, this is what you wanted," Zhongshan said, handing the furball to Nian Youyou.

 Chapter 406: The Ancestral God

    <h4>Chapter 406: The Ancestral God</h4>


    "Here you go, the little one you wanted!" Zhong Shan handed the small fluffy creature to Nian Youyou.


    Nian Youyou was still in a daze, lingering in the dream where ''Xiao Qing became a concubine''. Suddenly, she saw Zhong Shan handing her a small, fluffy ball.


    "Eee! Eee! Eeeeee!" The little ball of fluff looked pitifully at Nian Youyou.


    Nian Youyou frowned at Zhong Shan, her expression extremelyplicated. After all, they had spent four years together. The memories of their time in the dream, where they became a loving couple, experienced numerous life-and-death separations, and even had a chubby son, were still vivid in her mind. These memories seemed to have taken root in her brain, impossible to erase.


    Husband? Nian Youyou''s initially blushing face quickly turned into a strange expression, a mix of tenderness and resistance, extremely conflicted. For a moment, she couldn''t distinguish reality from the dream.


    "Do you want it or not?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    How could four years of marriage be forgotten? Zhong Shan also remembered vividly. However, it was just a dream, and he still had many unfinished matters. Besides, his romantic entanglements were already too many. Seeing Nian Youyou''s dazed expression, Zhong Shan quickly tried to divert her attention.


    The small fluffy creature had been held by Zhong Shan for quite a while and was already in pain, tears almost squeezing out, looking extremely pitiful.


    Nian Youyou reached out to take it, but instead of the joy she had imagined, she felt more like she was trying to grasp onto the dream. Her expression was very peculiar.


    "You''re here!"


    A sudden shout came from above Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou.


    "Boom!"


    A tremendous stream of air descended from the sky, quickly dispersing the blue mist around Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou.


    The powerful pressure immediately rendered Zhong Shan immobile, and even Nian Youyou looked up in shock.


    In mid-air stood an old nun, appearing about sixty years old with a bright red cinnabar spot on her forehead, ring angrily. She wore a yellow robe, looking extraordinarily otherworldly, with a faint halo of merit behind her head, giving her an ethereal appearance. However, her eyes were filled with a fierce intensity.


    Her sharp gaze fixed on Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou. The small fluffy creature in Nian Youyou''s hand curled up in fear, no longer making any noise.


    Behind the old nun were a group of bald monks.


    "Piaoxiang Bodhisattva, what do you want?" Nian Youyou shouted angrily.


    Piaoxiang Bodhisattva? The guardian of the Buddha''s tomb? Zhong Shan looked strangely at the elderly nun before him. Piaoxiang? She must really float to be fragrant!


    "Bodhisattva, it was him. He''s the one who had a conflict with Zhiguang Arhat that day. A few days ago, I also saw Nian Youyou with Zhiguang Arhat. They must be the ones who killed Zhiguang Arhat," said a monk behind Piaoxiang Bodhisattva.


    "Did you kill my disciple?" Piaoxiang Bodhisattva asked coldly.


    "You''re ndering us! Which eye of yours saw us kill Zhiguang?" Nian Youyou shouted.


    "She is Nian Youyou Zhenren of the Longevity Realm," the monk quickly exined to Piaoxiang Bodhisattva.


    "You are a disciple of that demoness?" Piaoxiang Bodhisattva''s eyes grew even colder, filled with a deep-seated hatred, even more so than when her disciple died.


    The overwhelming pressure bore down, making it impossible for Zhong Shan to move or even speak.


    Bodhisattva? Is this the power of a Bodhisattva?


    "Ring!"


    Suddenly, a small bell appeared in front of Nian Youyou. Its clear sound prated everyone''s ears, causing a moment of disorientation, as if their souls were wavering and about to leave their bodies.


    That bell? Nian Youyou''s master once appeared on the battlefield, and with a single ring of this bell, millions of soldiers fell into a daze.


    Everyone felt a moment of confusion, except for two people: Nian Youyou, the one wielding the bell, and Piaoxiang Bodhisattva, who stood opposite. Perhaps Nian Youyou''s power wasn''t enough to activate the bell to a degree that could threaten the Bodhisattva.


    "She really is that demoness, that wretched woman?" Piaoxiang Bodhisattva shouted in anger.


    "I didn''t kill your disciple, you old witch. What are you trying to do?" Nian Youyou yelled back.


    "Hmph!" Piaoxiang Bodhisattva let out a cold snort, her voice carrying immense destructive power. The distant blue mist trembled violently.


    "Hmph!"


    "Hmph!"


    "Hmph!"


    Suddenly, three men appeared in front of Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou, two in white robes and one in ck. They stood facing Piaoxiang Bodhisattva, clearly determined to protect Nian Youyou.


    These three men were all incredibly powerful, at least equal to Piaoxiang Bodhisattva. Their aura immediately suppressed hers, allowing Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou to move again.


    "Piaoxiang, what do you want?" the ck-robed man asked sternly.


    "Is this how the Pure Land treats its guests?" one of the white-robed men asked coldly.


    "Three seniors, this old nun wants to kill me," Nian Youyou quickly called out.


    "You have the Youyou Bell? How did you get it?" thest ck-robed man asked.


    "This is my master''s Youyou Bell. My master, like you three seniors, received one of the eighty-one tokens from the Pure Land. My master gave me this chance and entrusted me with the Youyou Bell. She said that if anyone tries to harm me, I should ring the bell, and her friends would surely help me and not let me suffer any grievance," Nian Youyou said pitifully.


    "You are her disciple? Don''t worry, no one will dare touch a hair on your head," the ck-robed man said immediately.


    "Indeed, since your master entrusted you with the bell and us as her friends, no one will harm you," the other white-robed man added.


    After speaking, the ck-robed and white-robed men exchanged a nce. There was no sign of camaraderie in their eyes, but rather a hint of rivalry, as if they were romantic adversaries. Yet, they stood together against Piaoxiang Bodhisattva.


    "Hahaha, you? Friends? You consider her a friend? When has she ever considered you friends? You are all bewitched by this demoness," Piaoxiang Bodhisattva said angrily.


    "Heavenly Extreme, Mo Bei, and Cang Ao, my master often spoke of you. She said you stood together against powerful enemies, traveled across the divinends, and experienced countless wonders together. This bond cannot be tarnished by others. This old nun is insulting your and my master''s friendship," Nian Youyou shouted at the right moment.


    "Little demoness, you are just like that wretched woman, bewitching men. Zhiguang must have been killed by you," Piaoxiang Bodhisattva said, her emotions surging.


    "Piaoxiang, do you speak for the Pure Land? Did the Returning Buddha invite us here to nder and humiliate us? Without any evidence, you want to use a disciple of an old friend out of jealousy? Hmph!" the ck-robed man said angrily.


    "You are all bewitched by her. Hahaha, demoness, demoness!" Piaoxiang Bodhisattva looked at the three men, her expression turning somewhat manic.


    "Hmph! Look at yourself. Demoness? Even in ten lifetimes, you could neverpare to her. If you don''t leave now, don''t me us for being rude," one of the white-robed men said coldly.


    As the white-robed man finished speaking, the auras of the three powerful figures surged wildly. The space around them seemed unstable, with the air rippling and bending under the pressure they directed toward Piaoxiang Bodhisattva.


    "Hahaha, you are all pitiable creatures!" Piaoxiang Bodhisattva let out a sorrowfulugh, turning and quickly flying away. The monks who had apanied her had long since fled.


    "Hmph!" The three powerful figures snorted coldly.


    "Thank you, seniors. Nian Youyou will certainly report your kindness to my master," Nian Youyou said to the three men.


    "Hmm, Nian Youyou? How is your master these days?" the ck-robed man asked.


    The two white-robed men also looked at Nian Youyou.


    "My master is now devoted to cultivation and rarely leaves the Longevity Realm. When teaching disciples, she often reminisces about the past and frequently mentions the three of you. She has said many times that if she had another chance to travel across the divinends with you all, it would be wonderful," Nian Youyou replied gracefully.


    "Ah, it''s rare that she still remembers us. From now on, stay where you were before and don''t leave. With me here, no one will harm you," the ck-robed man said immediately.


    "Indeed, I will keep an eye on Piaoxiang," one of the white-robed men added.


    "Rest assured!" the other white-robed man also affirmed.


    It seemed all three were vying to reassure Nian Youyou.


    "Thank you, uncles!" Nian Youyou said, changing her address appropriately, which pleased the three men.


    Zhong Shan, observing from the side, picked up on some key details and couldn''t help but marvel. Who exactly was Nian Youyou''s master? These three men were on par with Piaoxiang Bodhisattva, supreme powerhouses of the divinends, yet they were so eager to please? And why did that old nun harbor such jealousy?


    Nian Youyou''s small courtyard.


    The formation was activated, isting the inside from the outside. In the inner hall, only four people were present: Zhong Shan, his son, Mr. Corpse, and Nian Youyou.


    Mr. Corpse was staring at the blue fluffy ball in Nian Youyou''s hand, his eyes nearly popping out.


    "Ancestral God?" Mr. Corpse eximed, looking at the small ball.


    "Ancestral God? What Ancestral God?" Nian Youyou asked immediately.


    Mr. Corpse pointed at the small ball, then looked at Nian Youyou, his mouth opening and closing for a while before he finally calmed down. "This is an Ancestral God Beast, Nian Youyou Zhenren, you should take it and run away immediately!"

 Chapter 407: Xiao Qing

    <h4>Chapter 407: Xiao Qing</h4>


    Mr. Corpse pointed at the small fluffy ball, looked at Nian Youyou, and after a moment of contemtion, he calmed down and said, "This is an Ancestral God Beast, Nian Youyou Zhenren. You should take it and run away immediately."


    "Run away?" Nian Youyou asked in surprise.


    An Ancestral God Beast? Despite her extensive reading in the Longevity Realm, she had never encountered any records of such a beast. How did Mr. Corpse recognize it at a nce?


    "Yes, that Heart Refining Blue Sea might dissipate in less than five days," Mr. Corpse said.


    "Oh? Why?" Nian Youyou asked.


    "Because of it, the Ancestral God Beast in your hand. The Heart Refining Blue Sea was created by it. Without it, the sea will dissipate in at most five days. When that happens, they will certainlye after you for the Ancestral God Beast. In the Pure Land, the three great Buddhas, including the future Golden Cicada Buddha, should also be aware of this beast," Mr. Corpse said solemnly.


    "He knows? Why are you so certain?" Nian Youyou asked.


    "Sorry, that involves personal matters. Just remember, if the Golden Cicada Buddha knows about this beast, he will stop at nothing to get it," Mr. Corpse said.


    "An Ancestral God Beast? This little thing?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, this is just a juvenile Ancestral God Beast. I never expected there to be an Ancestral God Beast in this world. If it didn''t conflict with my cultivation, I would have fought for it too. Take good care of it, and in the future, it will be extremely powerful," Mr. Corpse said, taking a deep breath.


    "It''s only a juvenile?" Nian Youyou looked at Mr. Corpse strangely, as if he were a liar. How could he know about this creature when she herself didn''t?


    "Ancestral God, hah, Ancestral God!" Mr. Corpse continued to marvel at the small fluffy ball in Nian Youyou''s hand.


    The small ball curled up and let out a soft whimper.


    "Eee eee eee."


    "Zhong Shan, is your subordinate telling the truth?" Nian Youyou asked Zhong Shan, her eyes full of uncertainty.


    An Ancestral God? This little fluffy ball is an Ancestral God?


    Zhong Shan gave the small ball a deep look, then looked at Nian Youyou and said, "I trust Mr. Corpse. You''ve struck gold. Now quickly return to the Pure Land. We''ll meet again another day."


    "Meet again another day?" Nian Youyou suddenly looked at Zhong Shan, her eyes shing with a mix of tenderness and pain.


    "No, let''s not meet again. You should never encounter me again," Nian Youyou suddenly said.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Don''t ask, just remember me," Nian Youyou said, her eyes filled with pain.


    "What''s going on?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Don''t ask. I''m leaving!" Nian Youyou turned and began to dismantle the formation, clearly preparing to leave.


    Seeing Nian Youyou''s sudden change in demeanor, Zhong Shan felt a sense of unease.


    Nian Youyou deactivated the formation and was about to fly away, tears welling up in her eyes.


    "Wait!" Zhong Shan suddenly called out.


    "What now?" Nian Youyou asked, not turning back.


    Zhong Shan followed Nian Youyou out of the courtyard, quickly forming three hand seals and releasing three bolts of lightning towards the three small courtyards around the square.


    "Boom!"


    Two of the courtyards were protected by formations, which shook violently, while the roof of the third was sted open.


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan strangely. What was he trying to do?


    Soon, the three individuals who had protected Nian Youyou from Piaoxiang Bodhisattva appeared beside Zhong Shan.


    "Boy, what are you trying to do?" the ck-robed man asked coldly.


    "Three seniors, I apologize for the sudden disturbance," Zhong Shan said immediately.


    "Hmph," the three men snorted. They were willing to be lenient with Nian Youyou, but they saw no need to show respect to Zhong Shan.


    "Seniors, Nian Youyou is my friend. Earlier, she offended Piaoxiang Bodhisattva, and I''m worried she''ll face retaliation. So..." Zhong Shan began, but he was interrupted.


    "As long as I''m here, who would dare seek revenge?" one of the white-robed men said coldly.


    "I know you are powerful, but it''s easier to dodge a spear in the open than an arrow in the dark. That''s why I persuaded her to return to the Longevity Realm immediately. You three are our seniors, and I want to ask if one of you could escort her back safely," Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh?" The ck-robed man frowned.


    The three men looked impatient. Three mighty emperors, acting as bodyguards?


    "I know you came to attend the Great Annihtion Assembly, and it''s very close. But since Nian Youyou must leave, anyone escorting her would miss the event," Zhong Shan said.


    The three men red at Zhong Shan.


    "Why don''t you escort her?" the ck-robed man asked.


    "I want to attend the Great Annihtion Assembly," Zhong Shan said directly.


    The three powerhouses: "..."


    "Nian Youyou wants to return to her master. You three are old friends of her master. I don''t expect all three of you to escort her; just one would be enough, to personally hand her over to her master. Her master will be very grateful. Of course, missing the assembly is a significant loss, which is why I''m discussing this with you," Zhong Shan said quickly.


    "You want to return to your master?" the ck-robed man asked Nian Youyou.


    Nian Youyou looked deeply at Zhong Shan and then nodded.


    "I''ll escort you. Nian Youyou is hated by Piaoxiang, and as her elder, I must ensure her safety. The Great Annihtion Assembly can wait another thousand years," one of the white-robed men said.


    "No, I''ll go!" the ck-robed man said immediately.


    "Nian Youyou, let''s go. I haven''t seen your master in a long time," the other white-robed man said.


    The three seniors suddenly became enthusiastic.


    Although Zhong Shan had anticipated this, seeing the three supreme emperors, the pinnacle powerhouses of the divinend, change their attitudes so quickly increased his curiosity about Nian Youyou''s master. What kind of woman could possess such charm to make these powerful men so eager?


    "Thank you!" Nian Youyou nodded, then looked deeply at Zhong Shan with a mix of gratitude, tenderness, and pain in her eyes.


    Nian Youyou left, escorted by the three supreme emperors, ignoring everyone else as they quickly exited the Pure Land.


    "Nian Youyou, where is your master?" the ck-robed man asked as they flew.


    "In the Longevity Realm, seniors, in that direction," Nian Youyou pointed.


    "We know the way. Let''s go!" one of the white-robed men said excitedly.


    "Wait, what is that creature in your hand? I''ve never seen anything like it," the ck-robed man asked.


    "You haven''t seen it before?" Nian Youyou asked, looking at the three men.


    "No, such a peculiar form," one of the white-robed men said, shaking his head.


    "It''s... it''s called Xiao Qing!" Nian Youyou said, smiling happily.


    "Xiao Qing?" The three men looked puzzled. This little fluffy ball was obviously deep blue, and you call it ''Xiao Qing''?


    Nian Youyou nodded, holding Xiao Qing, as if she was still immersed in the previous dream. That memory was too deeply ingrained. Though it might have been just one day, in the dream, it was four years. Through that dream, Nian Youyou realized she couldn''t let go of Zhong Shan. A nce felt like an eternity; a day sounded absurd, but could that heart-wrenching love be erased? She even had a white, chubby son. Could she just forget all of that?


    Nian Youyou left. Zhong Shan, his son Zhong Tian, and Mr. Corpse returned to the small courtyard. This time, none of them went out, quietly waiting for the Great Annihtion Assembly tomence.


    What exactly was the Great Annihtion Assembly?


    "General Zhong!" A knocking sound came from outside the courtyard.


    Zhong Shan, Zhong Tian, and Mr. Corpse were meditating, waiting. Hearing the knock, all three frowned. The voice prated directly through the formation?


    Zhong Shan immediately got up and walked to the courtyard entrance, opening the door.


    As the door opened, Zhong Shan was slightly stunned, his heart tightening.


    Outside the courtyard stood arge group of monks, all solemn and imposing. Not one of their cultivations was something Zhong Shan could see through, and several even had halos of merit behind their heads.


    Bodhisattvas? No, the one at the front wasn''t a Bodhisattva but a Buddha.


    Golden Cicada Buddha. The Golden Cicada Buddha hade knocking with a group of followers?


    "Golden Cicada Buddha, what is this?" Zhong Shan asked, pointing at therge group of Bodhisattvas and Arhats.


    "Long time no see. I didn''t expect General Zhong to attend as promised. Golden Cicada is pleased," Golden Cicada Buddha said with a smile.


    "Golden Cicada Buddha is too kind. How could I note when Buddha invites me?" Zhong Shan replied courteously, while his mind raced, wondering why Golden Cicada hade.


    "Aren''t you going to invite me in?" Golden Cicada Buddha asked with a smile.


    "Of course, but the courtyard is small, I fear..." Zhong Shan nced at the group of Arhats behind Golden Cicada.


    "You all wait outside!" Golden Cicada Buddhamanded directly.


    "Yes!" The Bodhisattvas and Arhats responded immediately.


    "Please!" Zhong Shan invited Golden Cicada Buddha into the hall.


    Mr. Corpse and Zhong Tian stood waiting nearby.


    After sitting in the hall, Golden Cicada Buddha nced at the two and asked, "Who are these two?"


    "One is amander in my Zhong family army, Mr. Corpse. This is my son," Zhong Shan introduced.


    "Amander? Ha, General Zhong''s household is indeed extraordinary!" Golden Cicada said, looking slightly surprised at Mr. Corpse.


    Mr. Corpse remained silent, simply sitting there.


    "This must be Zhong Tian, the Arhat of Great Ming Temple?" Golden Cicada asked Zhong Tian with a smile.


    "Honored by my master, I was given the title of Arhat," Zhong Tian said, frowning slightly.


    "Great Ming Temple is an ancient monastery with deep foundations. Though it has no Buddha, it has Bodhisattvas of merit and can confer twenty Arhat positions. It''s impressive that you''ve been conferred as an Arhat at such a young age. Congrattions," Golden Cicada said, smiling kindly at Zhong Tian.


    "What brings Golden Cicada Buddha here?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning at Golden Cicada.


    Golden Cicada turned to Zhong Shan, seemingly with intention, and said, "Zhiguang Arhat of the Pure Land, unfortunately, met with a mishap a few days ago."

 Chapter 408: The Great Annihilation Assembly

    <h4>Chapter 408: The Great Annihtion Assembly</h4>


    "A few days ago, Zhiguang Arhat of the Pure Land, unfortunately, met with a mishap!" Golden Cicada Buddha looked at Zhong Shan with a meaningful smile.


    Seeing Golden Cicada''s insinuating look, Zhong Shan''s expression remained unchanged as he said, "When Piaoxiang Bodhisattva was searching everywhere for the culprit, I became aware of it."


    "Haha, I once gave Zhiguang a Bodhi seed. Although Zhiguang had refined most of it, there was still a small portion left unrefined. As a result, the Bodhi seed sent me a final message," Golden Cicada Buddha said with a smile.


    "A message? What kind of message?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly puzzled.


    Golden Cicada looked at the three people in the hall, who showed no signs of nervousness, only curiosity.


    Taking a deep breath, Golden Cicada''s expression turned serious as he said, "The Bodhi seed conveyed a trace of Zhiguang Arhat''s resentment to me, a resentment born at the moment of his death. The target of this resentment was you, General Zhong."


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhong Shan immediately stood up, eyes wide. "How could that be? That day, due to a mishap with my cultivation technique, I attacked Zhiguang Arhat in a state of confusion, but I was no match for him. How could he harbor such deep resentment towards me even at the moment of death? Golden Cicada Buddha, I can only express my regret over Zhiguang Arhat''s death. As for his unresolved grudge against me, I am helpless. Please, Buddha, forgive me."


    Zhong Shan resolutely denied the usation. Mr. Corpse and Zhong Tian remained calm, showing only indignation on Zhong Shan''s behalf.


    Golden Cicada looked at the three of them, each more adept at pretending than thest, making him almost doubt whether Zhong Shan had truly killed Zhiguang.


    "Prior to this, I was on an important diplomatic mission from the emperor to the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty. Such a crucial task couldn''t be abandoned. But to honor my promise to Golden Cicada Buddha, I came here despite the reluctance of tens of thousands of troops. How could I, a mere Nascent Soul cultivator, cause trouble in the Pure Land?" Zhong Shan continued.


    His words, though seemingly humble and righteous, also served as a warning to Golden Cicada: I came to your Pure Land, and everyone knows it. I bear responsibilities from two great dynasties. Killing me would be disrespectful to both. No one would believe a Nascent Soul could kill an Emperor-level powerhouse.


    "Whoever killed Zhiguang, I''m sure General Zhong knows well. As for a Nascent Soul cultivator, who couldpare to General Zhong? Single-handedly destroying two great empires, destined to be a prominent figure in the divinends, General Zhong is bound to shine," Golden Cicada said calmly.


    "Hmm? What do you mean, Golden Cicada Buddha?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "In every era, there are a few most influential, most powerful figures in the divinends. Recently, I saw ''her'' again at the ce where the immortal remnant sealed the demonic spirits. She and my past life were contemporaries. Though not friends, wemunicated for a long time. For her sake, I can overlook Zhiguang''s death," Golden Cicada said solemnly, clearly convinced Zhong Shan had killed Zhiguang Arhat.


    "Her?" Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes. The woman who looked exactly like Bao''er?


    "What is the purpose of your visit, Golden Cicada Buddha?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "I want him," Golden Cicada pointed at Zhong Tian.


    Zhong Tian''s expression froze.


    "What do you mean?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "The Great Annihtion Assembly requires twenty Bodhisattvas and five hundred Arhats tomence. Originally, the Pure Land had over five hundred Arhats, more than enough. Unfortunately, we now have only five hundred. With Zhiguang Arhat''s recent demise, we are one short. Since it takes time to confer a new Arhat title through merit, and we can''t afford to dy, I want to borrow your son," Golden Cicada Buddha said, his tone filled with authority, leaving no room for refusal.


    "What impact will it have on my son?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Only benefits, no harm," Golden Cicada Buddha assured.


    Zhong Shan stared at Golden Cicada Buddha, narrowing his eyes in thought. After a moment, he turned to Zhong Tian, who nodded.


    If it were someone else, Zhong Shan would likely negotiate, but he knew the gap between himself and Golden Cicada was too vast.


    "As you wish," Zhong Shan agreed.


    Golden Cicada Buddha nodded with a smile, acknowledging Zhong Shan''s consent.


    "I have a question for Golden Cicada Buddha," Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh?" Golden Cicada responded, intrigued.


    "I''ve heard that the great Heavenly Dynasty left behind seventy-two Immortal Steles, eleven of which are in the Pure Land. Is this true?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    Golden Cicada''s eyes narrowed slightly before he gave an inscrutable smile. "General Zhong has quite the foresight!"


    "Hmm?" Zhong Shan frowned, puzzled.


    "Indeed, the Immortal Steles are in my possession. Come with me," Golden Cicada said, rising.


    The three followed Golden Cicada out of the courtyard.


    Outside, the Bodhisattvas and Arhats waited quietly, along with other invited supreme powerhouses and notable figures, all eagerly watching.


    Golden Cicada stepped out, and the Bodhisattvas and Arhats bowed slightly.


    Golden Cicada nced around, spotting a vacant area in the distance. With a flick of his wrist, eleven massive steles flew out from his sleeve.


    These were the Immortal Steles.


    The stelesnded, embedding halfway into the ground in the open space.


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous noise echoed as the eleven Immortal Steles sank into the earth.


    Golden Cicada performed a series of hand seals, and suddenly, eleven golden beams of light enveloped the steles and the ground beneath them.


    Zhong Shan watched coldly, while the others were filled with curiosity.


    "The eleven Immortal Steles will remain here. Whenever General Zhong has the ability to take them, you are free to do so," Golden Cicada said with a smile. He then turned to Zhong Tian.


    "Arhat Zhong Tian,e with me," Golden Cicada instructed.


    "Father," Zhong Tian called to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nodded, and Zhong Tian followed Golden Cicada and the Bodhisattvas and Arhats away.


    The surrounding onlookers were puzzled. Immortal Steles? What were Immortal Steles?


    "A Buddha''s restriction?" Mr. Corpse said gravely.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan said, turning back to the courtyard.


    Mr. Corpse followed closely.


    "Your Majesty, do you intend to take them?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "Would Golden Cicada really let us take them? Even if I managed to take the Immortal Steles, Golden Cicada would never let us leave the Pure Land afterward," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Then why did Your Majesty bring it up?" Mr. Corpse asked, puzzled.


    "Have you noticed how prosperous this Pure Land is?" Zhong Shan said with a cold smile, not borating further.


    "Uh?" Mr. Corpse''s pupils contracted slightly, ncing at Zhong Shan with surprise.


    Outside the Ten Thousand Buddha Mountains, a golden blur suddenly appeared from the southwest, swiftly entering the mountain range. The golden blur was a man in a golden robe carrying a sword on his back. If Zhong Shan were here, he would immediately recognize him as the former Emperor Bai Ye, who had been bitten and turned into a descendant by the Zombie Emperor.


    Though initially at the peak of the Emperor Realm, Bai Ye''s strength had reached the Imperial Realm after following the Zombie Emperor for some time.


    Upon entering the Ten Thousand Buddha Mountains, Bai Ye felt his strength slightly suppressed. Frowning, he looked up at the sky, then reached out and grabbed a monk from a nearby temple out of thin air.


    "Where is the Pure Land? Take me there!" Bai Ye demanded.


    "Senior..." the monk stammered in fear.


    "Hurry!" Bai Ye said coldly.


    "Yes!" the monk quickly nodded.


    Meanwhile, inside the Pure Land, the Great Annihtion Assembly had officially begun!


    At the center of the golden mountain range that Zhong Shan had noticed upon entering the Pure Land was a massive square golden mountain known as the Buddha Altar.


    Below the Buddha Altar, thousands of monks sat cross-legged, chanting and waiting.


    Zhong Shan and other powerful guests were invited to ascend the golden mountain and enter the Buddha Altar to participate in the Great Annihtion Assembly.


    The Buddha Altar had a unique shape. Although it was situated on the massive square golden mountain, the top was slightly concave, with numerous seating tforms in the center.


    In the very center were three three-tiered golden lotus tforms, resembling three golden lotuses stacked together. Surrounding these were twenty ordinary lotus tforms and five hundred cushion-like tforms arranged in eighteen concentric circles.


    On these eighteen circles of cushion tforms sat five hundred golden-glowing Arhats, including Zhong Tian, who upied one of the Arhat seats.


    Inside the Arhat circle were twenty ordinary golden lotuses, each upied by a Bodhisattva with a faint merit halo above their heads, looking solemn and dignified. Among them was the elderly Piaoxiang Bodhisattva.


    Zhong Shan and other spectators stood further outside, separated from each other, watching the center. However, Mr. Corpse was notably absent, having been assigned elsewhere.


    The five hundred Arhats chanted scriptures continuously. Gradually, on the three central three-tiered golden lotuses, starting from the first, a Buddha emitting thousands of golden rays began to materialize.


    First was the Past Amitabha Buddha. On the first golden lotus, a very fat monk with a joyful smile and a big belly slowly took shape like a mist solidifying into a form, sitting down with augh.


    Next was the Future Golden Cicada Buddha. On the third golden lotus, the Golden Cicada Buddha seemed to traverse space suddenly appearing on the golden lotus, an incredibly miraculous arrival.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan rubbed his eyes in disbelief. On the second golden lotus, there was also a Buddha with a merit halo above his head. Zhong Shan hadn''t noticed his arrival, as if he had always been there, a massive and robust Buddha with a square face. The current Returning Buddha?

 Chapter 409: The Buddha

    <h4>Chapter 409: The Buddha</h4>


    As soon as the three Buddhas appeared, they performed a Buddhist salute.


    "Infinite Life Buddha!"


    The voice of the Buddha resounded, but Zhong Shan noticed it came from only two directions, left and right, from the Past Amitabha Buddha and the Future Golden Cicada Buddha. The Present Returning Buddha remained silent.


    No one seemed surprised, as Zhong Shan had heard from Nian Youyou that the Present Returning Buddha, the strongest in the Pure Land, was practicing an ancient Pure Land secret method called the Silent Meditation, which forbade him from speaking until his meditation wasplete.


    "Infinite Life Buddha!"


    The twenty Bodhisattvas bowed slightly to the three Buddhas.


    "Infinite Life Buddha!"


    The five hundred Arhats also bowed slightly.


    Above, in the sky, a sea of merit clouds gathered, forming the merit Dharma images of Arhats, Bodhisattvas, and Buddhas.


    "Recite��" Amitabha Buddha gently opened his mouth.


    "Om mani padme hum."


    The Bodhisattvas immediately began chanting the six-syble mantra, while the five hundred Arhats recited Buddhist scriptures, their voices like thunder, resonating through the air.


    The Bodhisattvas chanted the mantra, and the five hundred Arhats recited the scriptures, their voices booming like bells, shaking the surroundings.


    The Buddha Altar became filled with the sound of Buddhist chanting, with each Arhat radiating golden light. The endless golden mountains around the Buddhas were suddenly covered in golden clouds.


    The sound grew louder and louder, rising higher and higher. Even with Zhong Shan''s cultivation, he found it almost unbearable.


    The surrounding air vibrated intensely from the powerful sound.


    "Buzz��"


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan felt a wave of deafness. The Arhats around him continued to chant loudly, but Zhong Shan could no longer hear any sound.


    Zhong Shan squinted and looked around. The other spectators were also looking at each other, clearly all experiencing the same deafness.


    The surroundings had transformed; the original view of the Buddha Altar''s base was reced by golden clouds. These clouds isted everyone in a unique environment where absolute silence prevailed; no sound could be heard.


    Only the five hundred Arhats, twenty Bodhisattvas, and the three Buddhas in the center were visible.


    Gradually, Zhong Shan saw the eighteen circles of the five hundred Arhats start to rotate around the three Buddhas. The Arhats and Bodhisattvas spun around their respective circles, turning round and round. Zhong Shan rubbed his eyes and looked again, realizing the Arhats were still in their original positions. Was it an illusion?


    There was no sound; the entire Great Annihtion Assembly seemed deathly silent. Annihtion.


    The Arhats and Bodhisattvas hadn''t moved, so what Zhong Shan saw must have been an illusion. But then he looked up and saw the merit Dharma images in the sea of clouds above, spinning rapidly as if reflecting what he had seen earlier. The Dharma images in the sky were spinning faster and faster, gradually bing blurred until they appeared as nothing but swiftly rotating halos of light.


    The three Buddhas��Golden Cicada, Returning, and Amitabha��were sincerely worshipping.


    The silencested for about an hour.


    "Boom��"


    A thunderous explosion suddenly erupted, like a heavenly thunderbolt, shattering the hour-long silence. The deafening sound shook everyone''s spirit, causing a moment of disorientation.


    Everyone looked up at the sky with a mix of curiosity and trepidation. The circles of light formed by the Dharma images suddenly developed a crack.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    A series of explosions followed, and the crack widened, multiplying in number. Soft white light began to pour through these gaps.


    "Om mani padme hum," the sound of six Buddhist mantras resonated from the cracks. This Buddha sound was different from the one chanted by the Bodhisattvas earlier. It seemed toe from beyond this world, providing an inexplicablefort and a grand sense of infinite devotion.


    Zhong Shan frowned. This sound was identical to what he had heard recently when he entered the Ten Thousand Buddha Mountains and used the Red Luan Powder Lotus to achieve a state of ethereal rity.


    The most remarkable feature was the white light streaming through the cracks. Everyone bathed in this light felt an immensefort as if the light was purifying the impurities from their bodies. Some of the spectators quickly sat cross-legged, immersing themselves in this otherworldly glow.


    Everyone sat down, including Zhong Shan. Inside his mind pce, the Baji Tianwei opened its enormous mouth, eagerly absorbing the mystical energy. Unlike others who were content to bask in the light for purification, Zhong Shan''s approach was to seize it, resulting in a different scene around him.


    While others were surrounded by a gentle white light, Zhong Shan''s surroundings turned a faint ck, like a ck hole voraciously devouring the surrounding white light. He was absorbing, seizing the energy.


    Everyone''s eyes turned towards Zhong Shan. His body was enveloped in a faint ck aura, seemingly consuming the white light around him. The three Buddhas on the three-tiered golden lotuses also focused their attention on Zhong Shan, each with different expressions in their eyes.


    This was the benefit of the Great Annihtion Assembly��the celestial Buddha light, which purified the mortal body. Almost all the spectators would receive some benefits, and some might even achieve higher realms of enlightenment. This ancient tradition of the Pure Land was designed to attract powerful individuals from the divinend.


    asionally, it even managed to convert some strong individuals to Buddhism.


    The Baji Tianwei continued to ravenously absorb the energy. The white light was brimming with power, and Zhong Shan kept absorbing, seizing every bit.


    The three Buddhas only nced at Zhong Shan briefly before joining hands, forming a circle.


    "Hum��"


    A sudden hum came from the three Buddhas.


    "Open��"


    A loud explosion erupted from the white light, creating another fissure within the light itself. The three Buddhas were visibly excited.


    Suddenly, the sound of the five hundred Arhats chanting became audible again. The Buddha Altar was enveloped in a grand aura of sacredness.


    "Pay homage to the Buddha!" Amitabha and Golden Cicada Buddha bowed respectfully.


    The Buddha? Everyone opened their eyes, looking towards the milky white glow emanating from the crack.


    The Buddha?


    However, Zhong Shan remained with his eyes closed, sitting cross-legged, the Baji Tianwei voraciously devouring the endless white light. Zhong Shan''s actions were always purpose-driven. Meeting the Buddha? That couldn''t be more beneficial than gaining practical advantages. Zhong Shan realized that by continuing this ravenous absorption, his strength might increase even further.


    It was like choosing between meeting a billionaire and picking up a thousand taels of silver. Zhong Shan unhesitatingly chose the silver.


    "Infinite Life Buddha��"


    The solemn chant continued, filling the atmosphere with reverence and awe.


    From the crack in the sky came a voice of unparalleled grandeur, filled with infinite authority. Under this majestic presence, everyone involuntarily knelt down, except for those who were already seated.


    "Rumble��"


    Beyond the golden clouds, throughout the entire Pure Land, and even within the Ten Thousand Buddha Mountains, the sky was filled with thunderclouds. These endless thunderclouds raged violently, seemingly in defiance of the appearance of the Buddha, as if rebelling against the presence of such a divine being.


    In the sky, Bai Ye, flying in the outer perimeter, looked up with a peculiar expression.


    The Buddha Altar of the Great Annihtion Assembly was shrouded in countless golden clouds, shielding it from the external lightning.


    All eyes turned towards the source of the Buddha''s voice. The followers of Buddhism knelt in devout worship.


    Gradually, a beam of golden light shed from the crack.


    The golden light revealed three sacred Buddhist treasures.


    The first was a string of prayer beads, crystal-clear and imbued with a colorful aura. The beads, one hundred and eight in number, exuded an incredible mystical power, capable of mesmerizing anyone who gazed upon them. These were the Seven-Colored Prayer Beads.


    The second was a dharma wheel, resembling a spinning disk. The wheel bore twenty-four intricate patterns, each containing what appeared to be an entire world. These were the Twenty-Four Worlds, the Twenty-Four Heavenly Dharmas.


    The third was not a physical object but a golden symbol.


    A massive golden "�d" symbol, radiating billions of golden rays, descended slowly from the sky.


    These were the three treasures bestowed by the Buddha.


    The onlookers were astonished. The Pure Land was already incredibly powerful within the divinends. Recently, they had acquired the Future Buddha, and now, with these three divine treasures from the Buddha above, their dominance would be unrivaled.


    Amitabha, Returning, and Golden Cicada Buddhas all disyed expressions of excitement as they awaited the descent of the three treasures.


    The Seven-Colored Prayer Beads floated gently towards the Golden Cicada Buddha.


    Golden Cicada Buddha bowed with devout reverence, "Thank you, Buddha."


    As the Golden Cicada Buddha received the prayer beads and the other two Buddhas prepared to ept their respective treasures, the remaining two treasures floated towards the group of Arhats instead.


    The three Buddhas were momentarily stunned. The Buddha had bestowed the treasures upon the Arhats?


    In their surprise, Golden Cicada Buddha''s eyes widened, as he noticed the Twenty-Four Heavenly Dharmas Wheel and the golden "�d" symbol were heading towards Zhong Tian.


    Zhong Tian''s eyes remained closed as a golden light enveloped him. Within this light, the "�d" symbol gradually shrank, eventually merging into his forehead and disappearing. The Twenty-Four Heavenly Dharmas Wheel gently settled into Zhong Tian''s hands.


    The expressions of the three Buddhas turned cold, but with the Buddha''s gaze upon them, they refrained from showing any overt reaction.

 Chapter 410: The Great Qin Dynasty

    <h4>Chapter 410: The Great Qin Dynasty</h4>


    "Rumble��"


    Thunder roared, the world''s rejection of the Buddha''s presence growing stronger. Even within the isted environment of the golden clouds, everyone could feel the overwhelming pressure of the heavenly might.


    "Infinite Life Buddha��"


    From within the white light, the Buddha''s majestic voice resonated once more, prompting everyone to bow respectfully.


    Gradually, the gap in the sky began to close, as if sealing off the passage.


    "Farewell, Buddha��"


    Amitabha, Returning, and Golden Cicada Buddhas called out almost simultaneously.


    "Farewell, Buddha��"


    Everyone echoed in unison.


    The passage grew smaller and smaller, until only a tiny slit remained.


    "Hmm?��"


    A puzzled sound came from the other side of the passage. But it was toote; the slit closed, and the passage was sealed.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan stood up, his body lightly shaking, small currents of electricity flickering across his skin. His eyes gleamed with excitement. Unexpectedly, the Great Annihtion Assembly had allowed him to break through to the fifth level of the Nascent Soul stage!


    It was a cause for celebration. Of course, Zhong Shan wasn''t the only one who had increased his cultivation. Not far away, another Nascent Soul stage observer had also broken through. Zhong Shan''s sess owed much to the Baji Tianwei.


    Opening his eyes, Zhong Shan quickly assessed the situation. A cold smile tugged at his lips, but he said nothing.


    The white light had ceased, and the Dharma images of the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats in the sky had stopped rotating, gradually stabilizing.


    The endless golden clouds were slowly dissipating. Had the Great Annihtion Assembly concluded?


    For nearly two hours, the Assembly had been about opening a passage to the "upper realm" and receiving the Buddha''s light. Unexpectedly, the Buddha had bestowed three divine treasures this time.


    "Infinite Life Buddha��"


    Golden Cicada Buddha intoned, looking at Zhong Tian.


    Not only Golden Cicada, but Amitabha, Returning, and the Bodhisattvas, as well as the Arhats, all turned their gazes to Zhong Tian. This outsider Arhat had received two out of the three divine treasures bestowed by the Buddha, treasures that should have belonged to the Pure Land.


    However, this was the Buddha''s decision. No one dared to challenge it.


    "Tian''er!" Zhong Shan suddenly called out.


    Zhong Tian immediately stood up. Everyone watched him closely, for he was the biggest beneficiary of this Great Annihtion Assembly.


    "Father!" Zhong Tian responded, walking over.


    Everyone''s eyes were on the father and son, their presence too sensitive here.


    "The Buddha bestowed two treasures upon you?" Zhong Shan asked, giving a subtle signal only the two of them understood. It was a coded message Zhong Shan had taught Zhong Tian long ago: "Sacrifice the pawn to save the queen, mixing truth and falsehood."


    Zhong Tian, having spent the most time with Zhong Shan, immediately understood.


    "No, only one treasure!" Zhong Tian shook his head.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan feigned surprise.


    At this response, a wave of murmurs spread among the onlookers. They had all seen the two treasures descend to Zhong Tian. Why was he iming only one?


    Golden Cicada Buddha''s eyes narrowed slightly, while the other two Buddhas and all the Bodhisattvas and Arhats watched intently, waiting to see what would happen next.


    All eyes turned towards the father and son, each expression solemn and expectant.


    "It''s this Dharma wheel, and also another...," Zhong Tian seemed to ponder.


    "What else?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Everyone eagerly awaited the father and son''s words.


    "It seems to be a realization bestowed by the Buddha himself, something that can only be sensed, not described. Thus, the Buddha sealed it within those strange symbols. I can''t articte it," Zhong Tian shook his head.


    "Ah~~~~~~"


    Everyone''s breathing quickened. The Buddha''s realization? This young man was incredibly fortunate. With such insight, wouldn''t his cultivation be unimpeded? Of course, if it''s a realization, it''s not a magical treasure that can be taken out.


    The three Buddhas looked coldly at Zhong Tian. With this, Zhong Tian''s future achievements as a Luo Han were boundless! But what if in the future it proves detrimental to the Pure Land?


    Zhong Shan observed everything silently, pretending ignorance.


    "Realization? The Buddha''s realization? Does that mean the Buddha has recognized you and is ready to ept you as a disciple?" Zhong Shan revealed a pleasantly surprised expression.


    A disciple of the Buddha�� who would dare harm him? Especially in such a public setting, who would dare make a move against him?


    "Infinite Life Buddha~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, Buddha Golden Cicada spoke up.


    "Zhong Tian Luo Han, Zhong Dashi, I see that you two have a connection with the Buddha and with my Pure Land. Would you two be willing to enter my Pure Land? In the Pure Land, the fruit of Bodhisattva awaits you both," Buddha Golden Cicada immediately spoke.


    After Buddha Golden Cicada finished speaking, everyone looked at Zhong Shan and his son in astonishment. This father and son were truly blessed�� Bodhisattva, Bodhisattva''s fruit position! Buddha Golden Cicada was indeed generous!


    Some Luo Hans even started breathing heavily. Those observing from the sidelines looked on coldly. Some even showed jealousy.


    Zhong Shan frowned and looked at Buddha Golden Cicada. This Buddha Golden Cicada was not to be underestimated. Impressive! If he agreed, it would be like falling into a tiger''s den. If he refused, it would give them an excuse.


    Zhong Tian remained silent, leaving all decisions to his father.


    Zhong Shan nced at Buddha Golden Cicada, took a deep breath, and said, "I am deeply rooted in the Great Luo Tian Dynasty, and currently on a mission to the Great Departure Tian Dynasty. Since we have attracted the attention of the Buddha, it is truly an honor across three lifetimes. However, Zhong Shan cannot easily defy his destiny. If I were to agree to Buddha Golden Cicada now, the Great Luo Tian Dynasty would surely issue a warrant for my arrest due to the dignity of the dynasty. My current level of cultivation cannot withstand the challenges of stronger opponents. Therefore, I suggest that after Iplete my mission to the Great Departure, I will report back to the Great Luo Sovereign and then make a decision!"


    What? Almost everyone who didn''t understand Zhong Shan was stunned. How could he refuse? Has he gone mad? Bodhisattva, that''s Bodhisattva!


    The three Buddhas frowned slightly.


    "Very well! We will await good news from General Zhong!" Buddha Golden Cicada smiled.


    "Well, as for my son Zhong Tian, the Buddha Golden Cicada mentioned that the Great Extinction Ceremony iscking participants. My son is merely here to fill a gap. This Buddha treasure should rightfully belong to the Pure Land. It should return to Buddha Golden Cicada," Zhong Shan chuckled.


    Huh? Everyone looked puzzled. Has Zhong Shan lost his mind? Not only did he reject the Bodhisattva''s fruit position for himself, but he also gave away his son''s Bodhisattva position? Even the Buddha''s bestowed treasure was handed over voluntarily? Is this guy out of his mind?


    Zhong Tian immediately lifted the Twenty-Four Heavenly Dharma Wheel and presented it to Buddha Golden Cicada.


    Buddha Golden Cicada was slightly moved and immediately flew over on a golden lotus, very carefully epting it. This was the Buddha''s treasure.


    Not far away, Buddha Golden Cicada furrowed his brows. Zhong Shan''s words were indeed extraordinary. He had specifically asked for Zhong Tian''s help to open the Great Extinction Ceremony, then gave away the Buddha''s bestowed treasure. At this point, there was no excuse left to stop them. Impressive!


    "Why not listen to the opinion of Zhong Tian Luo Han?" Amitabha suddenly spoke up.


    "I listen to my father!" Zhong Tian immediately took on the appearance of a filial son.


    A peculiar father and son duo �� fools?


    Fools? Only those who couldn''t see through things would think so. Some sly and powerful individuals gradually began to see something special about this father and son pair.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    Just as everyone was speaking, in the distance at the entrance of the Pure Land, there was a loud noise, and a dozen monks were suddenly thrown in.


    "Huh?"


    Everyone looked strangely towards the direction of the entrance. Who? Who dared to intrude into the Pure Land?


    Slowly walking out from the entrance of the Pure Land was a man dressed in golden robes.


    Bai Ye? Zhong Shan looked in astonishment at Bai Ye, who carried the Ninth-grade Fiendish de on his back. Could it be? Is this kid asking for death? How dare he invade the Pure Land?


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~"


    The three Buddhas instantly disappeared from their original positions and, in a sh, appeared at the entrance of the Pure Land.


    The onlooking Bodhisattvas and Luo Hans flew over together.


    Zhong Shan and his son had the lowest cultivation, so they arrivedst.


    But when they got closer, they found that Bai Ye was not half-dead as expected. Instead, he had a proud attitude, holding a green tiger talisman in his hand. The three Buddhas stared at him, with Buddha Golden Cicada speaking to him.


    "Who are you?" Buddha Golden Cicada asked in a deep voice.


    "I am Bai Ye, the Martial Peace Duke of the Great Qin Dynasty!" Bai Ye said solemnly.


    Great Qin Dynasty? Almost everyone was stunned. Great Qin Dynasty? Where did the Great Qin Dynastye from? In the Divine Land, there were only the Great Luo, Great Departure, and Taishui, the three Great Dynasties. When did a Great Qin Dynasty appear? Is this guy insane?


    Even the Great Qin Emperor''s Dynasty didn''t exist. How could there be a Great Qin Dynasty?


    Everyone looked at Bai Ye as if he were a fool, except for Buddha Golden Cicada, whose pupils suddenly contracted as if seeing a ghost. Great Qin? Great Qin?


    "Great Qin? Which Great Qin?" Buddha Golden Cicada asked uncertainly.


    Zhong Shan looked at Buddha Golden Cicada with suspicion. Could there really be a Great Qin Dynasty?


    "Are you the Golden Cicada Buddha?" Bai Ye asked in a deep voice.


    "I am," Buddha Golden Cicada replied.


    Bai Ye stared at Buddha Golden Cicada and smiled slightly. "The Emperor instructed me to find you directly and tell you his imperial title. His name is ''Ying''!"


    "Ying?" Buddha Golden Cicada''s eyes widened.


    "Ying? Is it really him? How is this possible? He didn''t die? No, he must have died. Could he have reincarnated? But that doesn''t make sense," Buddha Golden Cicada looked puzzled and uncertain.


    Bai Ye smiled faintly and handed the green tiger talisman to Buddha Golden Cicada.


    "The Emperor instructed me to hand this talisman to you, urging you to fulfill your promise from the past and deliver ''Hou Tu'' as soon as possible," Bai Ye said with a smirk.


    "Hmph~~~~~~~~~~" Amitabha snorted coldly, as if the mention of ''Hou Tu'' struck a forbidden chord in his heart.


    (To be continued...)

 Chapter 411: The Road to Huangquan

    <h4>Chapter 411: The Road to Huangquan</h4>


    Amitabha snorted coldly, and Bai Ye gave him a cold nce. Then, he turned his gaze to Buddha Golden Cicada.


    "Tell Ying that obtaining Hou Tu is impossible," Buddha Golden Cicada said icily, while his immense aura pressed down on Bai Ye.


    Bai Ye chuckled coldly and shook his head. "I am merely delivering a message on behalf of His Majesty. Please act ordingly."


    After Bai Ye finished speaking, Buddha Golden Cicada''s pressure eased. A messenger? If it were another messenger, Buddha Golden Cicada would not have cared much �� kill or capture as needed. But this messenger from the Great Qin Dynasty made him hesitate.


    Bai Ye looked at everyone present and added, "Besides finding you, His Majesty also asked me to deliver a message to another person here."


    Everyone looked at Bai Ye, wondering who it could be.


    "Guigu, His Majesty of Great Qin has returned. Why haven''t you returned yet?" Bai Ye stared with his eyes wide open, not singling out anyone but addressing everyone present.


    The three Buddhas red angrily.


    Guigu? Who was Guigu?


    Only Zhong Shan knew. It involved Feng Shui, the alignment of heaven, earth, humans, gods, and spirits �� the Guigu of the Ghost Lineage.


    "Thus ends my words. Farewell!" Bai Ye smirked and turned to leave.


    The three Buddhas stared coldly, but no one stopped him. Since the three Buddhas did not intervene, no one else dared to obstruct him either.


    With a slight smirk, Bai Ye strode away.


    "Wait, Duke Wu''an!" Zhong Shan suddenly called out.


    Zhong Shan''s sudden address startled everyone. All eyes looked strangely at Zhong Shan, while the three Buddhas observed coldly, and Bai Ye looked at Zhong Shan with curiosity.


    "What is it?" Bai Ye asked in confusion.


    "I am Zhong Shan, Minister of Rites of the Great Luo Dynasty, Duke Dongfang. I have met Duke Wu''an!" Zhong Shan introduced himself.


    Duke Dongfang? Except for a few who knew Zhong Shan''s background, most people were unaware. Duke? Achieving such status with this level of cultivation? But why would the Pure Land invite someone with official ranks and merits here?


    "Zhong Shan? Are you the Zhong Shan who devised the Tianbeng n, toppled the Da Yu Dynasty in three years, and influenced the fortunes of two major dynasties alone?" Duke Wu''an raised an eyebrow.


    The name Zhong Shan didn''t carry much weight among those focused on umting virtue, but among those seeking titles and achievements, he was seen as a remarkable figure. Even Duke Wu''an, Bai Ye, had heard of him.


    Toppling two dynasties in three years and influencing their fortunes? Those who cultivated virtue were all amazed at Zhong Shan. This eight-foot stature, in the Yuan Infant stage? Could such cultivation really topple two major dynasties?


    It was hard to believe. Extremely hard to believe!


    However, disbelief aside, it was evident that Zhong Shan possessed astonishing wisdom. It was no wonder that Buddha Golden Cicada had previously tempted him with the position of Bodhisattva.


    "That''s correct. Speaking of which, the former Emperor of Great Qin once wielded unparalleled power, collecting powerful demons at his beck and call, and even tamed the mighty Tianlong to pull his chariot. His dominance shook the heavens, leaving an indelible impression on Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan immediately responded.


    "What does Duke Dongfang want from me?" Bai Ye asked.


    "On orders from His Majesty, Zhong Shan is seeking an audience with the Emperor of Great Qin to discuss important matters. It just so happens that we''ve met here. Let''s find a ce to talk in detail," Zhong Shan suggested, ncing around.


    Bai Ye surveyed the surroundings and nodded.


    "Buddha Golden Cicada, thank you for your invitation. My son and I have urgent matters to attend to. We won''t disturb you any longer," Zhong Shan said to Buddha Golden Cicada.


    Buddha Golden Cicada raised an eyebrow. Was Zhong Shan trying to leave under this pretext?


    "No Limitation Buddha!" Buddha Golden Cicada nodded.


    Zhong Shan, apanied by Zhong Tian, followed Bai Ye out of the Pure Land. As for Mr. Shi, he had probably left long before.


    Outside the Pure Land, a group of waiting people remained seated. Zhong Tian gestured, and five monks in coarse robes from the Great Ming Temple nodded in acknowledgment, following closely behind.


    They swiftly flew far away until they reached a secluded mountain valley, where Zhong Tian waved his hand, and the five monks from the Great Ming Temple stood waiting at a distance.


    "Speak," Bai Ye said to Zhong Shan.


    "Regarding ''Hou Tu''," Zhong Shan began.


    "Oh?" Duke Wu''an narrowed his eyes.


    "So, His Majesty wishes to have a discussion with the Emperor of Great Qin. If Duke Wu''an doubts my words, you may take my letter to the Great Luo Dynasty for verification and report back to Ying," Zhong Shan continued.


    "Why should I trust you?" Bai Ye frowned.


    "Falsifying an imperial decree is a capital offense. How would Zhong Shan dare to fabricate the decree of the Great Luo Emperor? I know you''ll seek confirmation before reporting to Ying whether what I say is true. Take my letter to the Great Luo Dynasty. With your status and position, the Great Luo Dynasty will certainly not trouble you. Deliver it to His Majesty, and he will naturally confirm everything to you. We are all working diligently for our respective emperors," Zhong Shan stared at Bai Ye as he spoke.


    "Very well! I''ll trust you for now," Bai Ye said.


    Zhong Shan smiled slightly and then took out two jade slips. He inputted some information into each and activated his unique restrictions on them before handing them to Bai Ye. "Give this one to the Master of Ceremonies; he can confirm your identity. Give this one to His Majesty; it will also count as one of my great aplishments."


    Bai Ye looked strangely at Zhong Shan, nodded, and then pocketed the two jade slips. He turned and flew into the sky, disappearing from everyone''s sight in an instant.


    After Bai Ye left, Zhong Shan set up another barrier to prevent eavesdropping.


    "Father, do you know about ''Hou Tu''?" Zhong Tian asked curiously.


    "I don''t," Zhong Shan replied truthfully.


    "Huh? Then did you just forge an imperial decree?" Zhong Tian asked.


    "No, when did I issue an imperial decree?" Zhong Shanughed.


    "Father..." Zhong Tian also smiled understandingly.


    "Why did you have Bai Ye deliver something to Senior Guishentong just now?" Zhong Tian asked.


    Zhong Shan''s expression became serious. "It''s about the Grand Extinction Ceremony, with scenes of the twenty-four Heavenly Wheels and the Seven-Colored Buddha Beads. Heh heh, two Buddhist treasures. The world is about to change!"


    "Father, about the rune left by the Buddha..." Zhong Tian began to exin.


    Zhong Shan shook his head. "It''s enough that you know. From now on, no one should mention this rune, not even to the strongest monk at the Great Ming Temple. It must remain undisclosed."


    "Yes, Father," Zhong Tian agreed.


    "Are you unhappy about giving away the twenty-four Heavenly Wheels?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "No, Father. Today, I handed them over to Master Guiyuan Buddha. Tomorrow, I will definitely take them back," Zhong Tian''s eyes shed with determination.


    "Good, that''s my son, Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan nodded in satisfaction.


    "Father, why didn''t you leave with Bai Ye just now?" Zhong Tian suddenly asked again.


    "Bai Ye is not a fool. He won''t always be our pawn. Besides, he definitely wants to see Senior Guishentong. As for our matters, we''ll handle them ourselves," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Okay..." Zhong Tian still felt somewhat worried.


    "We just need to dy the pursuers for a while to give Mr. Shi enough time to prepare," Zhong Shan said.


    "Father, is this Mr. Shi really that extraordinary?" Zhong Tian asked.


    "In the Great Jiong Dynasty, the four Grand Legion Commanders, which one of them is simple? Let''s go. If we wait any longer, it will arouse suspicion," Zhong Shan said.


    "Okay!" Zhong Tian nodded.


    Then, the father and son removed the formation, and the five monks from the Daming Temple surrounded them.


    "Venerable Zhong Tian, are we not returning to the Daming Temple?" one monk asked.


    "No, I am going with Father to a very important ce. It won''t take long. After we handle that important matter, we will return," Zhong Tian shook his head and said.


    "What matter?" another monk asked.


    "It''s a secret between the Daming Temple and the Pure Land of Bliss. When the timees, none of you should speak, just watch," Zhong Tian said.


    "Okay!" the five monks immediately nodded.


    Then, the group of seven headed west. They flew all the way.


    "Father, that''s something left by the Buddha. Iprehended it. It''s nearby. Let''s go and get it," Zhong Tian said.


    "Father, do you think that thing can really change the fate of the Pure Land of Bliss?"


    "Father, if we have that thing, can we confer Buddhahood at will?"


    ... Zhong Tian learned from Zhong Shan, bragging incessantly. Zhong Shan joined in, and the two of them conversed, astonishing the five monks beside them. Is it true or false?


    Far behind the seven, in the distance, followed an elderly nun, Floating Incense Bodhisattva.


    Floating Incense Bodhisattva followed along the way, never leaving, still remembering what Amitabha Buddha said to her at the time.


    "Find a ce with no one around and bring Zhong Shan and his son back to me!"


    Floating Incense Bodhisattva had originally nned to capture Zhong Shan and his son, but after White Business left, the two of them spoke incredibly frightening words. A treasure left by the Buddha?


    Floating Incense Bodhisattva changed her n! She was far away from everyone. Bodhisattva, with the realm of the Emperor, controlled everything.


    After Zhong Shan and his son went west, they circled around and headed north again. They flew for nearly twenty days, most of which were in chaos. In Zhong Shan''s mind, as long as he remembered the fixed direction and location agreed upon with Mr. Shi in the past, it would be fine.


    After twenty days, Floating Incense Bodhisattva and others were somewhat impatient. But the father and son were too good at blowing, not to mention Floating Incense Bodhisattva, even the unnamed monks behind Zhong Tian at the moment were stunned and stunned, as if they could ascend to immortality by following the two.


    Finally came to the so-called destination, and everyone also left the Buddhist Prohibition of 100,000 Great Mountains.


    In the distance, there was a dark canyon. One nce could not see the bottom.


    Zhong Shan and his son looked at each other, then quickly flew into it with the five monks from Daming Temple.


    After flying in, they never came out again.


    In the distance, Floating Incense Bodhisattva frowned because her divine sense couldn''t probe inside?


    With a hint of doubt and ruthlessness in her eyes, her figure shook and quickly left. Looking at the dark canyon, Floating Incense Bodhisattva hesitated for no time, and dived in.


    The moment she flew in, a faint yellow light shed deep in the canyon.


    "You frauds~~~~~~~~~~" came Floating Incense Bodhisattva''s angry and desperate scream from inside the canyon.


    "Frauds?" came Zhong Shan''s mockingughter from above the canyon.


    As if appearing out of thin air, eight figures appeared above the canyon: Zhong Shan and his son, the five monks from Daming Temple, and Mr. Shi.


    "At most, it can only trap her for ten days. The Bodhisattva has the ability to transform thousands of ghosts. Once she transforms the surrounding troubles, she will definitely break out of the formation," Mr. Shi said solemnly.


    "What is this?" the five monks looked at the bottom of the canyon in horror.


    "Huangquan Road!" Mr. Shi said.

 Chapter 412: The Supreme Forgetfulness Technique

    <h4>Chapter 412: The Supreme Forgetfulness Technique</h4>


    "Huangquan Road!" Mr. Shi spoke up.


    Everyone looked down below, where the bottom of the canyon was glowing with yellow light, allowing a glimpse of the interior scene.


    Under the yellow light, countless humanoid fierce ghosts were struggling hard to climb upwards. They climbed incessantly, attempting to ascend out of the abyss and simultaneously pulling down other ghosts from above to sink themselves lower and rise higher.


    Endless and deep, at a nce, it was an infinite abyss. The fierce ghosts rapidly climbed upwards, but no matter how hard they tried, they couldn''t climb out to the mortal realm. Yet they were undeterred, continuously climbing.


    It seemed as if billions of fierce ghosts were trying to break through this abyssal Huangquan Road and charge towards the human world.


    Floating Incense Bodhisattva was suspended in the middle of this abyss, where thousands of fierce ghosts were constantly pulling and dragging her downwards, trying to drag her into the depths of the Huangquan abyss. In the abyss, Floating Incense Bodhisattva seemed to have her powers restricted, angrily and furiously batting away one fierce ghost after another, sending them plummeting into the bottomless abyss.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Floating Incense Bodhisattva screamed in anger and frustration. Furious! Floating Incense Bodhisattva knew she could break free, but it would certainly take a long time. Here, her formidable aura had no effect on these fierce ghosts whatsoever.


    "Is this Huangquan Road?" Zhong Shan eximed in surprise.


    "This is one of the Huangquan Roads! Let''s leave quickly. Once this old nun escapes, Huangquan Road will immediately close," Mr. Shi shook his head and said no more.


    "Let''s go!" Zhong Shan said.


    Then, the group swiftly flew away, leaving only the indignant screams of Floating Incense Bodhisattva behind.


    "Tian''er, don''t waste time. Let''s quickly head to the Daming Temple," Zhong Shan looked at Zhong Tian.


    "Yes, Father, take care!" Zhong Tian nodded.


    Then, Zhong Tian led the five monks and hurried in one direction.


    Zhong Shan watched Zhong Tian depart, then turned to Mr. Shi and asked, "Mr. Shi, is that Huangquan Road real?"


    Zhong Shan could tell that Huangquan Road was neither a formation nor a derived realm; it was extremely peculiar.


    "Your Majesty, this concerns a critical matter for me. For the specifics, if there''s a chance in the future, I will definitely inform you," Mr. Shi replied.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded, but he also understood that Mr. Shi''s "if there''s a chance in the future" depended on whether he could gain Mr. Shi''s approval. Currently, Mr. Shi had only aligned himself with the Great Jiong Dynasty and had not yet pledged allegiance.


    "The Great Extinction Ceremony, the descent of the Buddha..." Zhong Shan recounted the details of the Great Extinction Ceremony to Mr. Shi.


    "It''s nothingpared to seeing the Buddha. This time, I obtained the corpses of two Bodhisattvas," Mr. Shi shook his head.


    Zhong Shan noticed that Mr. Shi seemed indifferent to the Buddha.


    "You stole from the Buddha''s tomb?" Zhong Shan looked at Mr. Shi.


    "The restrictions on the Buddha''s tomb are too stringent. I only managed to steal two," Mr. Shi sighed.


    "Don''t worry, one day we will unearth all the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas from within the Buddha''s tomb," Zhong Shan affirmed decisively.


    "Let''s hope so," Mr. Shi nodded.


    "Let''s go, let''s meet with Lin Xiao first!" Zhong Shan said.


    Then, the two quickly departed��


    In the Eternal Realm, within a thatched cottage deep in the forest.


    The cottage was quaint and elegant, surrounded by mountains, forests, and spring water, exceptionally picturesque. Outside the cottage stood two women.


    One was Nian Youyou, and the other was a woman wearing a purple veil.


    "Master, this is Xiaoqing!" Nian Youyou said softly.


    "The ancestral beast?" the woman eximed in surprise.


    "Master, you know about it?" Nian Youyou asked, astonished.


    "Oh? You''re aware too?" the woman replied calmly.


    "Yes, I heard them mention it," Nian Youyou said with a hint of fear.


    "The ancestral beast given to you by Zhongshan?" the woman inquired.


    "Yes!" Nian Youyou whispered.


    "If the ancestral beast is willing to give itself to you, it seems there''s already some affection between you?" the woman asked.


    "No, we''re just friends!" Nian Youyou quickly shook her head.


    "Friends? You, Youyou, I''ve watched you grow up. How could I not understand you? You have a broad vision like me. If you''ve taken notice of him, this Zhongshan must be an extraordinary man. I''ve recently inquired about him; Zhongshan is indeed exceptional," the woman nodded.


    "Master, really, there''s nothing!" Nian Youyou''s face showed a trace of pain.


    "Hmph!" the woman snorted.


    "Master!" Nian Youyou whispered fearfully.


    "Youyou, what cultivation technique are you practicing?" the woman asked.


    "The Supreme Forgetfulness Technique," Nian Youyou said, biting her lip.


    "As long as you know. The Supreme Forgetfulness: devoid of sentiment but not forgetting, only with affection can you forget. You''ve found true affection in this world, and now feelings have begun to grow. If you can''t forget this affection, your cultivation will stagnate forever. Only by forgetting can you continuously break through and reach the level of our ancestors. The Supreme Forgetfulness, among the six lineages of the Eternal Realm, will revive our lineage''s glory, defy mortal destiny, and achieve immortality," the woman exined.


    "But, Master..." Nian Youyou said in pain.


    "Kill him. Find an opportunity to kill Zhongshan, and you can continue on this path," the womanforted.


    "No, Master, you wouldn''t do that either, right?" Tears of pain welled up in Nian Youyou''s eyes.


    The small furry ball in her arms blinked, looking at Nian Youyou in confusion.


    "Me? I couldn''t kill him. You''re different; a hundred Zhongshans wouldn''t be your match. The Supreme Forgetfulness Technique is practiced by one in a billion. Don''t waste your exceptional constitution. Killing Zhongshan will help you forget, and you can make a breakthrough," the womanforted.


    "But I really feel hurt inside!" Nian Youyou sobbed and hugged the woman.


    The small furry ball in her arms squirmed, its innocent eyes filled with pain.


    "Just kill him! Remember this feeling!" the woman said softly.


    "But, Master..." Nian Youyou cried out in inner conflict.


    "Zhongshan, like you, is surrounded by legend. At one hundred and fourteen years old, achieving what he has is rare in all of Shenzhou. If allowed to develop, he might even be an immortal. But his path to immortality wouldn''t surpass yours," the woman sighed lightly.


    "Master, how do you know Zhongshan is a hundred and fourteen? Even in the Grand Luo Empire, those in power wouldn''t know," Nian Youyou wiped her tears.


    "Don''t think too much. Just get ready to act. Spend some time adjusting in the Eternal Realm. Once you''re ready, make your move," the woman shook her head with a sigh.


    "Master!" Tears welled up in Nian Youyou''s eyes again.


    Indeed, it was the cruelest technique: the Supreme Forgetfulness Technique. First cultivate affection, establish enough emotional connection, then kill the other person, leaving only that affection to apany you. Supreme Forgetfulness!


    In thend of Shenzhou, Shui Wuheng led an army of eight hundred thousand, advancing steadily.


    "Report..."


    A scout swiftly flew in.


    "Report!" Shui Wuheng looked towards the scout.


    "General, ahead we''ve spotted another Mo Yan legion, about thirty thousand strong. They''ve just razed a small town, killing almost everyone, and are now surrounding a group of people," the scout reported.


    "Oh?" Shui Wuheng looked slightly puzzled.


    Shortly after, Shui Wuheng, Liu Wushuang, Zhihuo, and Lin Xiao flew to a nearby high mountain and looked into the distance.


    In the distance, thirty thousand Mo Yan troops had just ttened a small town. The savage riders on Mo Yans were circling incessantly, their gazes extremely malevolent, all focused on the center.


    In the center were about thirty people, each without a trace of fear in their eyes, only firm resolve. Whenever a savage rider charged, they were ughtered by a group of men wielding swords on the periphery.


    The group''s strength seemed to be around the Consolidation Stage.


    "Same as thest two times, it''s none of our business, let''s not interfere. Let''s go!" Shui Wuheng nced briefly and shook his head, ready to leave.


    "Wait!" Lin Xiao suddenly frowned.


    "Huh?" Shui Wuheng and Liu Wushuang looked puzzled.


    Lin Xiao squinted, observing the battlefield center in the distance. Over thirty people, with twenty or so wielding swords on the outside, were continuously ughtering Mo Yan troops. However, in the center, a few hadn''t moved.


    This group was trapped by the Mo Yan legion. But Lin Xiao saw one person, a woman.


    It wasn''t lust that made Lin Xiao notice, but a woman who suddenly ovepped with someone from his memory. Someone Lin Xiao had heard about from Yinn.


    White clothes, white hair, white eyebrows, and a white sword! A woman rumored to have a special rtionship with the emperor.


    Kaiyang Sect! Bei Qingsi!


    Lin Xiao hadn''t seen Bei Qingsi before, so he couldn''t be sure it was her. But such a distinctive appearance was rare in Shenzhou. Lin Xiao hadn''t seen a woman with white hair and eyebrows even in the Ancient Holy Capital.


    "What''s wrong?" Shui Wuheng asked, puzzled.


    "We need to rescue them!" Lin Xiao said immediately.


    "Rescue who?" Shui Wuheng frowned, clearly reluctant.


    "Don''t you recognize that woman with white hair in the center?" Lin Xiao furrowed his brows.


    "White hair?" Shui Wuheng looked slightly puzzled, then looked again.


    "Bei Qingsi?" Shui Wuheng eximed in surprise.


    Shui Wuheng and Bei Qingsi were once martial siblings, but in Shui Wuheng''s memory, Bei Qingsi had always had ck hair. When did her hair turn white?


    "Phew," Lin Xiao breathed a sigh of relief. He actually guessed right.


    "Wushuang, organize the troops and get ready to move!" Shui Wuheng ordered.


    "Yes!" Liu Wushuang immediately responded.


    "How does Mr. Lin know Bei Qingsi? And how do you know I know Bei Qingsi?" Shui Wuheng looked at Lin Xiao with suspicion.


    "The Marshal mentioned her to me before!" Lin Xiao exined.


    The army quickly prepared, taking advantageous positions.


    "Archers!" Shui Wuheng gave the order.

 Chapter 413: For Qing Si

    <h4>Chapter 413: For Qing Si</h4>


    Shui Wuheng''s grand army, having trained under Zhongshan, faced the formidable Mo Yan Legion of thirty thousand. However, against the organized and disciplined Zhong n Army of eight hundred thousand, the Mo Yan Legion proved no match. Most of them were reckless andcked both organization and discipline.


    In less than half an hour, the Mo Yan Legion was nearly wiped out, with only two members captured��a couple of leaders who had tried to escape.


    "Senior Brother, why is it you?" Bei Qingsi sheathed her sword and approached with a group of people towards Shui Wuheng and others.


    "Senior Brother?" The thirty people beside Bei Qingsi frowned and looked at Shui Wuheng. The massacre had been swift; who were these people?


    "We just happened to pass through here. Who are these people with you?" Shui Wuheng asked, puzzled.


    "These are my martial brothers from the Eternal Realm!" Bei Qingsi replied.


    "Eternal Realm?" Shui Wuheng furrowed his brow.


    "Yes," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    "Congrattions then," Shui Wuheng nodded back.


    "Senior Brother is already the marshal of the Grand Luo Empire?" Bei Qingsi eximed.


    Shui Wuheng smiled faintly.


    "We are from the Zhong n Army," Lin Xiao interjected.


    "Zhong n Army? Zhong..." Bei Qingsi''s expression suddenly turned serious.


    "Marshal Zhongshan!" Lin Xiao continued.


    "Zhongshan?" Bei Qingsi''s expression changed, a hint ofplexity flickering in her eyes.


    "Where is he?" Bei Qingsi asked softly.


    "The Marshal had urgent matters and left earlier. If you''re willing, you can join our troops for a while. It shouldn''t be long before he returns," Lin Xiao said.


    As Lin Xiao spoke, Shui Wuheng seemed to realize something. Was there something between Senior Brother and Bei Qingsi?


    "Yes! Why don''t you wait a few days?" Shui Wuheng immediately suggested.


    ncing at the army withplexity, Bei Qingsi shook her head. "Knowing he''s doing well is enough for me. We have other matters to attend to!"


    The martial brothers of Bei Qingsi frowned. Who exactly was Zhongshan?


    "You''re not staying?" Lin Xiao furrowed his brows.


    "No!" Bei Qingsi shook her head with a smile.


    Seeing Lin Xiao''s expression, Shui Wuheng immediately guessed that there must be a significant rtionship between Bei Qingsi and the Marshal.


    "Then, Sister, where are you headed?" Shui Wuheng asked, at least wanting to find out Bei Qingsi''s next destination for Zhongshan''s sake.


    ncing at Shui Wuheng and then at Lin Xiao, Bei Qingsi naturally understood their intentions. She sighed softly. "We, thirty-some people, are sent by the Eternal Realm for a trial. Our mission is to eradicate the Mo Yan Legion, this wicked group, and bring rity to the world, umting merit for the Eternal Realm."


    "Eradicate the Mo Yan Legion?" Shui Wuheng frowned.


    "Yes, the Mo Yan Legion operates extensively in this area, with several hundred thousand members. Our task is to root out the source, destroy their headquarters, and eliminate their leaders," Bei Qingsi exined.


    "Do you need our help?" Shui Wuheng asked.


    "No need! This is our affair in the Eternal Realm! Just hand over the two leaders you captured earlier," Bei Qingsi said.


    "Alright," Shui Wuheng could only sigh.


    "Two leaders, you can only take one away. The other one, we need to answer to the Marshal," Lin Xiao shook his head.


    "Sure!" Beiqingsi nodded.


    Zhongshan had returned, but it was toote. Beiqingsi had already left without a trace, embarking on the trial in the Realm of Longevity.


    The army camped in a vast mountain valley.


    Inside the central military tent.


    Zhongshan, Mr. Shi, Lin Xiao, Shui Wuhen, Zhihuo, and Liu Wushuang, six individuals, gazed at a burly man in ck robes who was their captive.


    There was a divine seal ''��'' on the man''s forehead, but after a period of imprisonment, this ''��'' had faded into obscurity.


    Clearly, as Sekong mentioned earlier, he had already learned to activate the divine seal.


    "I don''t know!" the burly man said.


    "Don''t know?" Zhongshan''s eyes turned cold.


    He seemed very afraid of Zhongshan''s tone, as if he had just undergone torture.


    "I really don''t know. I''m just a peripheral leader. Although I''ve activated the divine seal, every time I collect hearts and souls, I hand them over to my superior, who then passes them up the chain until they reach the master," the burly man quickly exined.


    "Activate the divine seal? How many others have activated it?" Zhongshan asked.


    "I don''t know. We are also innocent. We used to be ordinary cultivators until we were imnted with the divine seal. Unable to activate it, we had no thoughts of our own, only obedience. There was also boundless cruelty. Once the divine seal is activated, we are withdrawn. Despite the immense power bestowed by the divine seal, if the master is displeased, even from millions of miles away, we will be punished. Moreover, every year, we must take an antidote; without it, the divine seal will detonate us! We dare not betray!" the burly man said fearfully.


    Zhongshan narrowed his eyes. Then he turned and walked out, the others following closely behind.


    "General, are you going to find Beiqingsi?" Shui Wuhen asked with slight confusion.


    Everyone looked at Zhongshan together.


    "I''m going," Zhongshan nodded.


    "But, General, how will you find Beiqingsi in such a vast Divine Land?" Shui Wuhen worried.


    "If fate allows, we will meet across a thousand miles. Besides, she has already told us her destination: the stronghold of the Nightmare Legion. I''ll wait for her there," Zhongshan said. Not knowing Beiqingsi''s whereabouts was one thing, but to not see her when she was near was unthinkable.


    "However!" Shui Wuhen frowned.


    "Enough, my mind is made up! Mr. Shi, you''lle with me. As for the rest of you, I have other arrangements!" Zhongshan thought for a moment.


    "Yes!" everyone immediately agreed ��


    Above a white cloud stood three figures.


    One was the burly man interrogated by Zhongshan not long ago. The other two werepletely unfamiliar, disguised as Zhongshan and Mr. Shi.


    "I''m Zhong Shuai," Zhongshan said to Mr. Shi after their transformation.


    "I''m Shi Si," Mr. Shi replied.


    The burly man in front looked at them and then pointed to a distant mountain valley, "It''s over there. My superior is in that valley."


    Zhongshan and Mr. Shi exchanged a nce, then descended from the cloud.


    "You lead the way! Lead us in and help us infiltrate. We''ll go to headquarters together to deliver the Soul Stone and the Heart," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" The burly man nodded immediately, leading the way with a fleeting hint of malice in his eyes.


    Not far aheady the mouth of a valley, shrouded by an array that obscured the view inside, with only one entrance below.


    Zhongshan and his twopanions rushed towards the entrance.


    "Save me~~~~~~~~~~!" Suddenly, the burly man beside Zhongshan shouted loudly.


    The burly man sprinted towards the valley, his eyes filled with ferocity. It was evident that apanying Zhongshan and hispanion was intentional, leading them into the valley to ambush and eliminate them.


    Upon reaching the valley mouth, upon seeing what seemed to be ''their own people'', he immediately shouted and dashed towards the valley.


    The two men in blue robes guarding the valley entrance froze upon seeing the unexpected trio.


    Zhongshan and Mr. Shi saw the burly man''s betrayal, unsurprised as Zhongshan had already anticipated his deceit.


    "Save me~~~~~~~~~~!" Zhongshan and Mr. Shi also shouted simultaneously, their faces mirroring the burly man''s panic.


    The burly man hesitated for a moment, then turned to see Zhongshan and Mr. Shi with identical expressions, feeling something was amiss, something very wrong.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~!" The burly man, with a hint of disbelief, looked down at his chest where a shattered Gang Qi arrow had pierced his Purple Pce, shattering his Nascent Soul.


    With fear driving them, Zhongshan and Mr. Shi hastened their pace, quickly reaching the depths of the valley.


    Arge group of people emerged from within the valley upon seeing the burly man fall, swiftly casting spells to retrieve him.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~!" Another broken Gang Qi arrow shot from a distant mountain peak, aimed directly at Zhongshan''s back.


    "Bang~~~~~~~~~~!" An elder next to Zhongshan shattered the arrow with a palm strike.


    "Go~~~~~~~~~~!" The elder ordered, and over a dozen people swiftly flew towards the distant mountain peak.


    On the far-off mountain peak stood the me Wolf General. Upon seeing the approaching group, he turned and fled.


    "Who are you people?" the elder asked Zhongshan and Mr. Shi.


    "I''m Zhong Shuai, and he''s Shi Si. While apanying ourmander on a mission, we were besieged by attackers from the Realm of Longevity. During the siege, both of us activated the divine seal and managed to escape with ourmander," Zhongshan exined.


    "Oh?" The elder narrowed his eyes.


    Zhongshan and Mr. Shi simultaneously pointed to their foreheads, where a dark ''��'' suddenly appeared, and their aura abruptly intensified, emanating faint ck energy from their bodies.


    The imitation divine seals��over these past few days, Zhongshan and Mr. Shi had already devised a method to mimic the divine seal through the deceased burly man. Though itcked the true effect of the divine seal, the imitation looked almost identical.


    "Hmm!" The elder nodded.


    "Shall we withdraw?" Zhongshan pointed to the pattern on their foreheads.


    The elder nodded, and the imitation divine seals on Zhongshan and Mr. Shi''s foreheads vanished.


    "How many people from the Realm of Longevity were involved in the assassination attempts?" the elder asked again.


    "At first, there were only about thirty, butter, tens of thousands appeared. We couldn''t withstand them," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "Indeed, but those tens of thousands were not from the Realm of Longevity; you just had the misfortune," the elder shook his head.

 Chapter 414: Frozen Three Thousand Miles

    <h4>Chapter 414: Frozen Three Thousand Miles</h4>


    "Where''s the Soul Searching Stone?" the old man asked, looking at Zhongshan.


    "It''s with themander!" Zhongshan replied promptly. Mr. Shi swiftly retrieved a Soul Searching Stone from the recently deceased giant in his arms.


    The old man held it in his hand, examining it before nodding.


    "And the Heart of the People?" the old man asked again.


    "It''s with me!" Mr. Shi immediately responded.


    "Good. In two days, you will apany me to headquarters," the old man said calmly.


    "But..." Zhongshan hesitated, a hint of worry in his voice.


    "Both of you are in the Yuan Ying stage. When we arrive at headquarters, you will certainly be valued. Just call me Zhao Lao," the old man said.


    "Zhao Lao, I''m concerned about how many people from the Immortal Realm there might be. We saw around thirty initially, but there could be more. Our Demon Legion is spread out; they could also be in scattered groups. Are we in danger?" Zhongshan asked anxiously.


    Zhao Lao nced unexpectedly at Zhongshan and said, "Don''t overthink it. Just listen to me."


    "Yes!" Zhongshan immediately agreed��


    Several dayster, Beiqingsi and a group of Immortal Realm individuals, having also subdued another minormander captured by the Zhong family''s army, arrived at the valley where Zhongshan had been a few days earlier.


    "No one here!" several Immortal Realm people said coldly, looking at the minormander.


    "This time, among the six branches of the Immortal Realm, four branches have sent people to search for the Demon Legion. Our Water Branch has over thirty people, but the other three branches have many more. They won''t have gone far," another person said.


    "Although the four branches are undergoing the trial simultaneously, we won''t know whopletes the mission until the end," the previous person added.


    "We must find them quickly."


    "I think they''re heading towards headquarters," Beiqingsi suddenly spoke up.


    "Sister''s words are wise."


    "Yes, Sister and I were thinking the same."


    ... The crowd echoed in agreement, while Beiqingsi furrowed her brow. Knowing that as a descendant of immortals and possessing a unique physique, she was highly sought after even in the Immortal Realm. Not long ago, a senior brother had even pursued her, but Beiqingsi knew her heart no longer belonged to herself.


    "Where have they gone?" everyone suddenly stared at the minormander.


    "I know a ce. It might be where they''re headed. The Blissful Pure Land had once surrounded us, and we took that path," the minormander said cautiously.


    "Then lead us there!" several Immortal Realm people eximed, their eyes stern.


    "Yes!"


    Soon, the minormander led the group along a special route, following the footsteps of Zhongshan and his party.


    Long-distance flight? Zhao Lao wasn''t foolish. After Zhongshan''s reminder, he was naturally cautious. This group of nearly two hundred people activated their Divine Seals, including his fifty subordinates, totaling two hundred and fifty people. Flying high in the sky could easily attract attention. The Soul Searching Stones were filled with souls, unable to be stored in storage bracelets. A simple scan of divine awareness would reveal them, so sticking to the ground was the safer option.


    Among this group with activated Divine Seals, cultivation levels varied. High-ranking members like Zhongshan and Mr. Shi were in the Yuan Ying stage, while lower-ranking ones were only at the early Golden Core stage.


    Following Zhao Lao, the group arrived at a dock. There, arge ship awaited them, overlooking a vast expanse of blue waves��an ind sea!


    "Ahem~~~"


    Zhao Lao suddenly coughed, taking out a silk handkerchief to cover his mouth. A trace of blood stained the cloth before he casually tossed it aside.


    "Board the ship!" Zhao Laomanded.


    The others looked at him with slight confusion, nodded, and jumped onto therge boat together.


    Powered by magic, the ship swiftly sailed across the water.


    Everyone was assigned different amodations. However, Zhongshan found Zhao Lao.


    "Zhao Lao, are you alright?" Zhongshan asked with slight concern. After all, Zhao Lao had just coughed up blood at the dock.


    ncing unexpectedly at Zhongshan, Zhao Lao replied, "I''m fine."


    "Zhao Lao, is your lifespan nearing its end?" Zhongshan worriedly asked. He had noticed Zhao Lao showing signs of weakening, the so-called ''Five Signs of Decay''.


    Zhao Lao''s pupils constricted as he coldly stared at Zhongshan.


    "Zhao Lao, although General Zhong has just regained consciousness, we were both captured by the Legion of Demonic Oppression during our cultivation journey and had divine imprints nted in us. Unlike those cultivated from a young age, I still long for immortality," Zhongshan revealed with bitterness.


    Zhao Lao nced at Zhongshan, pondering his own situation, and sighed softly.


    "Zhao Lao, I have something I''m not sure I should say," Zhongshan continued.


    "Oh?" Zhao Lao looked at Zhongshan.


    "I can see that Zhao Lao is already showing signs of the Five Signs of Decay. Your ability to handle things is strong, so they still rely on you. But after this trip to headquarters, will there still be a chance for Zhao Lao?" Zhongshan said.


    "What do you mean?" Zhao Lao squinted at Zhongshan.


    "They want us to use the Soul Stone to extract souls. Zhao Lao knows that the higher the cultivation, the more nourishing the soul bes. Your cultivation is higher than mine. Your soul..." Zhongshan stopped halfway, implying that Zhao Lao''s lifespan was nearing its end, and his soul would surely be respectfully offered to their master.


    Zhao Lao clenched his fist, staring coldly at Zhongshan. "What are you trying to say?"


    "I just want to ask Zhao Lao for advice. Everyone has a divine imprint. I don''t think these imprints are very precious; otherwise, why would everyone have them? Yet they are so miraculous, each activation increasing one''s realm without any side effects. Why is that?" Zhongshan asked Zhao Lao earnestly.


    Zhao Lao looked at Zhongshan, a bitter smile crossing his face as he sighed softly.


    "Zhao Lao, General Zhong sincerely wants to know," Zhongshan said.


    Shaking his head, Zhao Lao''s initial hostility had already dissipated, reced by a sense of mncholy. After a moment of silence, Zhao Lao spoke, "No side effects? Unlike the Dissolution **, which consumes bodily energy, the divine imprint... "


    A pained expression flickered across Zhao Lao''s face. "Each use of the divine imprint consumes lifespan."


    "Lifespan?" Zhongshan''s eyes widened.


    "Guess how old I am?" Zhao Lao looked at Zhongshan.


    "Zhao Lao, your cultivation must surpass mine. You must be over a thousand years old, right?" Zhongshan asked.


    "I am seven hundred and forty-two years old this year," Zhao Lao sighed and shook his head.


    "Isn''t the lifespan during the integration period supposed to be sixteen hundred years? Zhao Lao, how..." Zhongshan eximed in shock.


    "There are gains and losses. Joining the Legion of Demonic Oppression means a lifetime of loyalty to the master. Otherwise, without an antidote every year, you will burst and die," Zhao Lao said solemnly.


    "But Zhao Lao, are you really willing?" Zhongshan stared at Zhao Lao, as if trying to persuade him to cooperate in the future.


    Therge ship sailed towards the open sea, leaving the previous dock behind.


    Under the leadership of the juniormander, Bei Qingsi and others had already flown nearby. Suddenly, the juniormander stopped at a grassy area and reached down to pick up a silk handkerchief.


    "This is Zhao Lao''s handkerchief, yes, it''s theirs. The bloodstains on it haven''t dried yet. We''ve found them!" the juniormander eximed immediately.


    "Where are they?"


    "They should have boarded the ship. Um, over there, that should be the ship," the juniormander quickly pointed out.


    Everyone looked towards the small boat in the distance, barely the size of a sesame seed.


    "I wonder if there are formidable people on the ship. Junior Sister, stand behind me," a man reached out towards Bei Qingsi.


    Bei Qingsi''s eyes chilled as she twisted away from his salty hands.


    The man awkwardly smiled. The others looked at him with disdain, as everyone here was keenly aware of Bei Qingsi''s presence; he was certainly bold.


    Bei Qingsi nced at the group, furrowing her brows slightly. She sighed, "Brothers, you''ve always been the ones taking action before. Let me handle it this time."


    "Huh? Junior Sister, those people are ruthless killers."


    "Yeah, Junior Sister, you have the lowest cultivation here. We must protect your safety."


    "Maybe we shouldn''t!"


    The group all tried to intervene in front of Bei Qingsi.


    Bei Qingsi shook her head and walked towards the edge of the dock.


    The others followed closely. They absolutely could not let Bei Qingsi get hurt; not only did they want her approval, but the Water Lineage''s prominent figures had instructed them upon leaving to ensure Bei Qingsi remained unharmed. Losing the first spot among the Four Lineages was inconsequential, but Bei Qingsi mustn''t be injured. Her future was critical to the Water Lineage, being descended from Immortals and possessing the Kan Ding body. Bing an Immortal wasn''t too hard.


    Bei Qingsi squatted lightly by the edge of the dock, confusing the others with her actions.


    With her right hand plunged into the water, Bei Qingsi gently waved it. The group was puzzled. Why was Junior Sister ying with water?


    Just as they wondered, a faint white light spilled from Bei Qingsi''s palm.


    "Crackle, crackle, crackle..."


    Within the half-meter circle of Bei Qingsi''s palm, the water turned white, while just beyond half a meter, ice suddenly began forming.


    "Crackle, crackle, crackle~~~~~"


    Terrifying ice, more and more of it, rapidly spread from the dock towards the sea.


    With each sound of the icepressing, in an instant, thousands of meters away, endless ice formed, tens of thousands of meters further away.


    The ice wildly stretched into the distance. Within moments, the entire sea turned into ice, frozen for three thousand li.


    The small ship in the distance was abruptly enveloped in a massive iceberg. Layer uponyer, it grewrger andrger.


    The entire sea suddenly became an ice field. The air temperature plummeted, precipitating snow and ice. Just moments ago, the surging waves were nowpletely frozen��instantaneously frozen!


    The group stared with gaping mouths, hearts chilled. Especially the man who had reached out earlier, staring at his own palm, an involuntary shiver creeping up his spine.


    Was this still the little Junior Sister we were supposed to protect? Their expressions were petrified in terror.


    Frozen for three thousand li? Frozen for three thousand li? Was she still in the integration period? How did she make it look so effortless?

 Chapter 415: The Encounter

    <h4>Chapter 415: The Encounter</h4>


    "Descendants of immortals, inheriting their bloodline... this, this is too monstrous!"


    "Freezing three thousand miles? Turning the sea into ice? This is an entire ocean! And she froze it with just a wave of her hand?"


    Everyone couldn''t help but swallow hard, looking at Bei Qingsi in shock. With such power, even if they all attacked together, they wouldn''t be her match. They had previously said they would protect her, but now it seemed like she didn''t need any protection at all.


    Bei Qingsi had intentionally revealed her absolute strength to make these senior brothers wary of her, so they wouldn''t pester her anymore. After all, Bei Qingsi was kind-hearted, and this was her way of rejecting them all.


    Everyone frowned.


    "See that? From now on, when you see Bei Qingsi, don''t be so attentive. Keep your distance," suddenly, a voice rang out behind them.


    Everyone turned around to see a handsome man with blue hair standing there.


    If Nian Youyou were here, she would recognize him immediately. He was the man who had watched Zhong Shan and Jian Ao defeat the Demon Legion with herst time. But while Nian Youyou had followed Zhong Shan, the blue-haired man had followed Jian Ao.


    "Greetings, Martial Uncle!" Everyone respectfully greeted.


    "Greetings, Martial Uncle!" Bei Qingsi also greeted respectfully.


    "Haha, Bei Qingsi, you haven''t even taken a master in the Longevity Realm yet. Why are you calling me Martial Uncle? Maybe soon we will be fellow disciples. You can just call me ''Bing Xuan''," the blue-haired manughed.


    "In the Longevity Realm, the rules state that neers are the lowest-ranking disciples unless promoted by a True Lord or Dao Lord. I should still address you as Martial Uncle," Bei Qingsi said, frowning slightly.


    Bing Xuan looked at Bei Qingsi, his expression flickering before he smiled and said, "Alright, since you insist, you can call me Martial Uncle."


    "Yes, Martial Uncle!" Bei Qingsi immediately responded.


    "Over there, they are about to break free from the ice," the small leader who had led the way shouted.


    Everyone turned their heads to look. Indeed, cracks were appearing on the iceberg that encased the small boat, and the cracks were rapidly increasing, as if the ice could break at any moment.


    They all stepped forward and quickly flew towards the distant iceberg.


    In no time, they arrived at the iceberg.


    "Crack, crack, crack��"


    The cracks on the iceberg were increasing, and everyone watched coldly. Led by Bing Xuan, they all stared intently at the ice.


    "Boom��"


    All the ice around therge boat shattered with a loud explosion.


    But in the presence of the powerful Bing Xuan, the shards of ice automatically dispersed, not a single piece reaching the crowd.


    The ice was broken, but an even greater threat loomed.


    Old Zhao stood at the bow of the ship, coldly looking up into the sky.


    Zhong Shan, Mr. Corpse, and a group of people stood behind Old Zhao, all looking up at the uninvited guests.


    Seeing the people in the sky, Zhong Shan was momentarily stunned. Bei Qingsi?


    Mr. Corpse, although he had never seen Bei Qingsi before, recognized her from Lin Xiao''s previous descriptions.


    Mr. Corpse looked at Zhong Shan, who shook his head, indicating not to reveal themselves now.


    "Who are you?" Old Zhao asked sternly.


    "You tell me, who do you think we are?" Bing Xuan responded with a sinister smile.


    At this moment, Old Zhao noticed the small leader hiding behind the crowd. His eyes narrowed as he said, "So it was you who betrayed us. You all must be from the Longevity Realm?"


    Bing Xuan stared at Old Zhao, smiling but not denying it.


    "Old Zhao..." Some people behind Old Zhao were already impulsively drawing their swords, ready to charge.


    However, with a wave of his hand, Old Zhao stopped them all, signaling not to act rashly.


    Seeing this, Bing Xuan smiled in satisfaction and tossed a small white pill toward Old Zhao.


    With a snap, Old Zhao caught it.


    "I know you are troubled by the Divine Seal on your foreheads. Though the seal is strong, it is essentially a poison. This pill was personally crafted by the Dao Lord of the Longevity Realm and has the same effect as the antidote you take yearly," Bing Xuan exined.


    Old Zhao looked at Bing Xuan, then at the pill in his hand. Without hesitation, he popped it into his mouth.


    After tasting it, he nodded. "Indeed, it''s the same."


    Upon hearing this, everyone on the ship looked at each other, then at Old Zhao, and finally at Bing Xuan.


    "What do you want?" Old Zhao asked gravely.


    "I am Bing Xuan Zhenren of the Longevity Realm. The Dao Lord has already created the antidote. If you are willing to do us a small favor, I will take you to the Longevity Realm and ask the Dao Lord to remove your Divine Seals," Bing Xuan said earnestly.


    "Remove them?" Old Zhao raised an eyebrow.


    Some people showed a look of longing, while others seemed indignant. Clearly, they were still unaware of the true nature of the Divine Seals.


    "Why should I trust you?" Old Zhao asked sternly.


    "My word is my bond, and the credibility of the Longevity Realm is guaranteed," Bing Xuan replied with a serious tone.


    Old Zhao stared at Bing Xuan for a long moment before suddenly speaking, "Marshal Zhong!"


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan immediately responded.


    "Take everyone into the cabin and exin the true nature of the Divine Seal in detail," Old Zhao ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhong Shanplied without hesitation.


    As everyone followed Zhong Shan into the cabin, still unclear about the situation, Zhong Shan began to exin the secret of the Divine Seal draining their lifespan.


    With Zhong Shan''s eloquence, it didn''t take long before everyone was wide-eyed in shock. A lifespan-draining seal? That would make them eternal ves! How could they rebel against that? They couldn''t. If the master wanted them dead, they would die; if the master wanted them alive, they would live. For ordinary cultivators, lifespan was already insufficient, and now, with it being further reduced, wouldn''t they just be waiting for death? This seal was a slow-acting poison!


    Wait, didn''t that person say the Dao Lord of the Longevity Realm could remove it? Hope rekindled in everyone''s hearts.


    At this moment, Old Zhao also walked into the cabin, clearly having reached some agreement with those above.


    As Old Zhao entered, everyone looked at him expectantly.


    Looking at them, Old Zhao said, "Marshal Zhong has already exined to you, hasn''t he? I have just spoken with the people from the Longevity Realm. If you are willing to live as ves forever and make enemies of the outside world, would you ept that?"


    "No, Old Zhao, just tell us what to do," someone immediately interjected.


    "Yes, Old Zhao, you just spoke with them. Are they willing to help us?" another person asked.


    Everyone else looked hopeful.


    Old Zhao looked at them in mild surprise, then at Zhong Shan. It was because of his conversation with Zhong Shan that he didn''t immediately treat the people from the Longevity Realm as enemies. Unexpectedly, Zhong Shan''s persuasive skills were so good that in such a short time, he had convinced everyone to rebel against their master.


    "There is no free lunch in the world. If we want the people from the Longevity Realm to help us, we must offer something in return," Old Zhao said.


    Everyone listened quietly.


    "I have already spoken with them. They will pretend to be like you, people with activated Divine Seals. We just need to take them to the headquarters and kill the master. After that, they will take us to the Longevity Realm, where the True Lords or Dao Lords can remove our Divine Seals. We might even be able to cultivate near the Longevity Realm," Old Zhao said.


    After Old Zhao finished speaking, there was a moment of silence among everyone. Although they didn''t want to be ves, the fear instilled by their "master" was immense.


    "What if they can''t kill the master..." someone voiced their concern.


    At this moment, someone needed to step forward and bolster everyone''s courage. Zhong Shan immediately stood up and said, "I am willing. The Longevity Realm must have deployed many people this time. One of the Four Great Sacred Lands, the Longevity Realm, can''t possibly fail to defeat the master''s Demon Legion. I am willing to take a chance. If we don''t, we will eventually be poisoned to death. I don''t want to die, nor do I want to be a ve. Immortality is my dream. Even if I can''t achieve immortality, I want to live freely. I''ve had enough of these days."


    Old Zhao gave Zhong Shan an approving look.


    Sure enough, after Zhong Shan spoke, everyone became resolute.


    "I am willing too!"


    "Me too!"


    Everyone expressed their willingness. Old Zhao smiled and nodded.


    The group once again came out of the cabin. Outside, the icy in had been melted by Bei Qingsi, turning into a vast ocean. This time, the looks everyone gave the people from the Longevity Realm had changed.


    "Then, you will join us as those who have just activated their Divine Seals. My daughter unfortunately passed away recently, so you will impersonate her. However, your cultivation levels?" Old Zhao pointed at Bei Qingsi.


    "Don''t worry, we have our methods to conceal our cultivation levels," Bing Xuan said.


    Indeed, very quickly, everyone suppressed their aura, and to Old Zhao''s eyes, their cultivation levels appeared to be at the Golden Core stage.


    Old Zhao nodded in satisfaction and then said, "Your hair, it''s too conspicuous."


    He pointed at Bei Qingsi and Bing Xuan''s white and blue hair, respectively.


    "Hair?" Bing Xuan smiled slightly, gently brushing his hand over his hair, turning it jet ck.


    "Bei Qingsi, would you like me to teach you?" Bing Xuan looked at Bei Qingsi with a smile.


    "No need, I have my own way," Bei Qingsi shook her head.


    "Oh?" Bing Xuan was puzzled.


    "May I trouble Old Zhao for a private room?" Bei Qingsi asked.


    "Of course," Old Zhao nodded.


    Bei Qingsi entered the private room alone, isting it with an array, and began her preparations inside.


    "Let me exin the Divine Seal to you, so you at least have an impression of it and can somewhat imitate a fake one," Old Zhao said.


    "Alright," the people from the Longevity Realm nodded.


    An hourter, Bei Qingsi emerged from the cabin. Her hair and eyebrows had turned jet ck.


    Bing Xuan looked at Bei Qingsi in surprise.


    "Bei Qingsi, there''s no trace of any spell on your hair. How did you do it? Would you teach me? Although my hair is ck now, someone with higher cultivation can see through it at a nce," Bing Xuan said, trying to strike up a conversation.


    Zhong Shan, standing nearby, smiled slightly because the method Bei Qingsi used to dye her hair was something he had taught her long ago.


    Biting her lip, Bei Qingsi shook her head, "I''m sorry, Martial Uncle, but I can''t share this method with anyone."


    "Uh?" Bing Xuan was slightly puzzled.


    Zhong Shan, however, showed a touched smile.

 Chapter 416: The Beast

    <h4>Chapter 416: The Beast</h4>


    Therge ship continued on its original route, maintaining the guise. If they were to disguise themselves, it had to be aplete disguise. Everything was as usual, except that the ship now carried thirty-two additional experts from the Longevity Realm.


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse still went by their aliases, Marshal Zhong and Corpse Four. They were already in the safest position, so there was no need to reveal their true identities. Besides, even if they did, Bei Qingsi still needed to go to the Demon Legion headquarters, and Zhong Shan had to follow. It was better to keep up the extrayer of disguise.


    The ship traveled swiftly, and after two days, they reached the shore and continued their journey on foot.


    Ten dayster, they arrived at a city. The city''s gate bore the characters "Wu City."


    "The Jin Dynasty? The capital ''Wu City''?" Bing Xuan''s pupils contracted.


    In the distance, a massive city stood with a faint golden aura of luck gathering above it, indicating that this was the capital of an imperial dynasty.


    "I''m not sure. The delivery location changes each time. This time, it''s Wu City. Once we''re inside, someone will find us," Old Zhao said gravely.


    Everyone nodded and followed Old Zhao towards the city gate.


    Before they reached the gate, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. He exchanged a nce with Mr. Corpse, both looking at a monk standing at the gate.


    Sekong? It''s him?


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse avoided making eye contact with him.


    "Sekong?" Old Zhao murmured.


    "Old Zhao, are these people the ones who have just activated their Divine Seals?" Sekong asked with a smile.


    "Yes. It''s been quite tight around heretely. It seems like the Longevity Realm has been watching us. I''ve already lost nearly eighty thousand of my Demon Legion men," Old Zhao nodded.


    "Heh, the Longevity Realm? Didn''t the Pure Land fail to aplish anythingst time? Don''t worry, our master''s grand n is almostplete. Come, I''ll take you to your quarters," Sekong said with a smile.


    "Alright," Old Zhao nodded.


    Sekong led them into Wu City and soon brought them to a valley within the city. The valley was filled with numerous houses, and the environment was very elegant, with mountains and water, very serene.


    "You''ll be staying in the eastern courtyard. I need to wait for others from different routes," Sekong said.


    "Alright," Old Zhao nodded.


    After Sekong left, everyone settled down in the eastern courtyard. The following days were spent patiently waiting.


    Zhong Shan often sat in a pavilion in the courtyard, drinking tea and ying chess with Mr. Corpse because from that position, he could see Bei Qingsi''s residence.


    Mr. Corpse also cooperated, and three dayster, Bei Qingsi came out of her house, stretching slightly.


    "Bei Qingsi!" Bing Xuan''s voice suddenly called out from a distance.


    Bei Qingsi frowned and looked over. Bing Xuan, dressed in white, walked over with a hint of a mischievous smile on his handsome face, exuding an indescribable charm.


    "Martial Uncle!" Bei Qingsi stopped and called out immediately.


    In the courtyard, several other disciples from the Longevity Realm also looked over. Hearing her call him Martial Uncle, they turned their attention to Bing Xuan. Although they respected their Martial Uncle, they were annoyed that he was openly pursuing a fellow disciple. They were unhappy but had to endure it due to Bing Xuan''s strength and status.


    "Qingsi''s charm is indeed extraordinary. The moment you stepped out, everyone''s eyes were on you," Bing Xuan said with a smile.


    Bei Qingsi frowned and said, "Martial Uncle, please call me by my full name."


    From a nearby pavilion, Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow, his eyes turning cold��a sign that someone was about to have a run of bad luck.


    "My full name? Haha, I remember a junior brother in the Longevity Realm who once pursued you and called you that. You rejected him but also gave him hope," Bing Xuan said with a smile.


    "Martial Uncle has a good memory. To avoid hurting the feelings of fellow disciples, I told him something impossible. I told him that he could call me ''Qingsi'' only if he could find me ''pure water,''pletely free of impurities. Both you and I, being of the water element, know that such a thing doesn''t exist, just like asking for the stars in the sky. Could you bring them down for me, Martial Uncle?" Bei Qingsi sighed, shaking her head.


    Zhong Shan watched from the side, deeply moved. Bei Qingsi was effectively locking her heart away.


    "Not necessarily!" Bing Xuan said with a mischievous smile.


    "Oh?" Bei Qingsi looked slightly puzzled.


    The other disciples from the Longevity Realm all frowned.


    "To the speaker, it was casual. To the listener, it was earnest. Since you said that, I''ve searched everywhere for the purest water. The purest water in the world is the ''Spring of Life'' from the ''Creation Pce,''" Bing Xuan said with a smile.


    "The Creation Pce of the Four Great Sacred Lands?" Bei Qingsi frowned.


    "Yes. I went through great difficulties to find a sample of the ''Spring of Life,'' which I brought for you. I ask for nothing more than to call you by your name," Bing Xuan said, producing a small jade box.


    "The Spring of Life?" The disciples from the Longevity Realm were all amazed.


    Bing Xuan gently opened the jade box, revealing an extremely clear water source inside, emitting a faint white light.


    Bei Qingsi looked at the Spring of Life in the jade box with a furrowed brow.


    "The Creation Pce? Hasn''t it been missing for a long time?" Bei Qingsi asked, frowning.


    "That''s why it was so difficult for me to obtain this Spring of Life. You won''t go back on your word, will you?" Bing Xuan said with a sly smile.


    "This..." Bei Qingsi looked troubled.


    "Hahaha!" Suddenly, Zhong Shan''sughter rang out from the pavilion.


    The abruptughter caught everyone''s attention, including Bing Xuan''s, who frowned and looked at Zhong Shan coldly. ording to his n, he was just about to get closer to Bei Qingsi, and thisughter was an unwee interruption.


    "What''s so funny?" Bing Xuan asked coldly.


    "Why am Iughing? Haha, I''mughing because an elder, someone your age, still has youthful desires. It''s not a big deal to have youthful desires, but to have designs on a girl young enough to be your granddaughter, that''s quite something. And you, a renowned figure from the Longevity Realm, trying to deceive a young girl with a fake item, that''s the funniest part!" Zhong Shanughed.


    His words were sharp and venomous, guaranteed to anger the person involved while amusing the onlookers.


    "You...!" Bing Xuan''s eyes red with anger.


    He quicklyposed himself, taking a deep breath. "Fake? This Spring of Life is genuine. How dare a mere Nascent Soul stage cultivator act presumptuous before me?"


    "Spring of Life? I didn''t say it''s not the Spring of Life. But the youngdy asked for ''pure water.'' Do you understand what pure water means? What is that? Good heavens, is that supposed to be pure water?" Zhong Shan exaggerated hisughter.


    "The Spring of Life is the purest water in the world. If you don''t know it, then step aside," Bing Xuan said coldly.


    Zhong Shan didn''t back down. Instead, he approached, looking at the Spring of Life in the jade box and shaking his head.


    "This is your pure water?" Zhong Shan stared at Bing Xuan.


    "Exactly!" Bing Xuan replied confidently.


    "But, can this really be called pure water? What am I seeing? So many impurities, my heavens, there are even a few monsters swimming around in there," Zhong Shan eximed exaggeratedly.


    Monsters? Swimming?


    The surrounding onlookers were taken aback. This guy didn''t want to live, talking to a Martial Uncle like that? Mr. Corpse, however, just smiled faintly.


    Bing Xuan''s eyes narrowed. "Are you deliberately causing trouble?"


    "Not at all, why would I cause trouble? I''m just stating the facts. Can''t you see the monsters in there? Oh, look, those two monsters are fighting. It''s quite a show," Zhong Shan said, feigning surprise.


    The crowd looked at Zhong Shan oddly. Monsters fighting? Was he mad? That was the purest Spring of Life! Bei Qingsi, of course, understood that this person was trying to help her.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Bei Qingsi felt a strange sense of familiarity, but he was alsopletely unfamiliar, a very peculiar feeling.


    "This, uh, sir, are you saying this water is dirty?" Bei Qingsi asked, ying along.


    "Dirty? It''s more than dirty; there are monsters living in it! Can this water be considered clean? Can''t you see them?" Zhong Shan put on an exaggerated expression.


    Bei Qingsi looked at the box of water, shook her head, and said honestly, "I can''t see anything."


    After Bei Qingsi spoke, Bing Xuan exhaled a sigh of relief, and the onlookers also breathed slightly easier.


    "It''s alright if you can''t see. You haven''t had the special training. Wait for a bit, and I''ll make something that will let you see. Not just you, anyone will be able to see the monsters fighting in there. Oh, it''s quite a spectacle!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Hmph, do you expect us to wait until next year while you make this thing?" Bing Xuan said coldly.


    "Half an hour at most. In half an hour, you will see," Zhong Shan said.


    "Hmph, fine, I''ll give you half an hour. If you can''t show us proof, don''t me me for being rude," Bing Xuan''s eyes shed with a cold light.


    "Don''t worry, I, Marshal Zhong, always keep my word," Zhong Shan replied.


    The crowd looked at Zhong Shan curiously. Monsters? They had all scanned the Spring of Life with their divine senses and found nothing. Was this guy crazy?


    Zhong Shan didn''t avoid the others. He took some metals, lenses, and small mirrors from his storage bracelet.


    With his Nascent Soul stage cultivation, crafting items was no longer difficult, even though he hadn''t done it much. Zhong Shan threw the materials into his palm, and a me instantly ignited. Using his divine sense, he quickly shaped the metals. He didn''t inscribe any arrays, and in less than half an incense stick''s time, Zhong Shan was done.


    It was a strange contraption! Zhong Shan adjusted it for a moment, making sure everything was in order before exhaling deeply.


    It took less than half an hour! After several adjustments, the peculiar device was finallyplete.


    "What is this?" Bing Xuan asked with a frown.


    "This will let you see the monsters," Zhong Shan said with a smile.

 Chapter 417: The Myriad Stars

    <h4>Chapter 417: The Myriad Stars</h4>


    "This will let you see the monsters," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s confident and teasing expression, Bing Xuan felt an urge to p him.


    "Hmph!" Bing Xuan snorted coldly.


    "But this thing, can it really...?" Bei Qingsi asked, frowning.


    She had just used her divine sense to inspect the device and hadn''t detected any magical fluctuations. Could this really let them see "monsters"?


    "You don''t know. In a dark room, can you see the dust in the air clearly?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I haven''t reached that level of cultivation," Bei Qingsi shook her head.


    "Exactly. You haven''t reached that level, but when a beam of light shines into a dark room, can you see the dust particles clearly through that beam of light?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    The onlookers all frowned, thinking it over. Indeed, in a dark room, when a beam of sunlight shines through, one can see the dust particles in the air clearly. But why?


    "This is called dark field microscopy, which involves the refraction of light. Ah, trying to exin it to you is pointless. Just know that this device will let you see things in the dark field. Enough talking, let''s look at the monsters!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    The crowd was intrigued, Bei Qingsi was curious, and Bing Xuan was filled with resentment.


    What Zhong Shan had created was a simple microscope. Although he hadn''t used microscopes much in his youth, having only encountered them in school, he understood the principle: a form of dark field microscopy using refraction. The structure was straightforward��a metal base with different lenses, tubes, and mirrors. Very simple. Once he understood the principle, Zhong Shan could easily craft it because a microscope is quite basic. The onlyplex part was the need for extreme precision, which was no challenge for someone with divine sense.


    "What do you call this device, Elder?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Bing Xuan!" Bing Xuan said coldly.


    "Oh, it doesn''t matter. Can you ce a drop of that water here for us to see? Just a tiny drop on this ss slide," Zhong Shan said cheerfully.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s smile, Bing Xuan felt a surge of frustration. He wanted to punch Zhong Shan, but in front of Bei Qingsi, he had to maintain hisposure.


    With a wave of his hand, a drop of the Spring of Lifended on the ss slide. Bing Xuan watched Zhong Shan coldly, having made up his mind to y him alive once he exposed Zhong Shan''s lies.


    The crowd watched Zhong Shan with curiosity.


    Zhong Shan carefully ced the slide under the microscope. After adjusting the focus, he eximed, "Oh, so many! What I saw earlier was just a fraction."


    Everyone looked puzzled, including Bing Xuan, who frowned.


    "Come on, little girl, take a look," Zhong Shan said, waving Bei Qingsi over.


    Little girl? Despite Zhong Shan''s disguised appearance making him look older, Bei Qingsi''s cultivation level was clearly higher.


    Bei Qingsi didn''t mind. With a curious expression, she looked through the microscope. After a moment, she frowned and showed a look of disgust.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi''s reaction, Bing Xuan''s heart skipped a beat. Could she really be seeing something?


    "You all can take a look. These monsters are rare," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    The crowd quickly gathered around. After Bei Qingsi stepped aside, they eagerly took turns looking through the microscope.


    "OMG!" a disciple from the Longevity Realm eximed.


    "Move aside, let me see!" another one immediately pushed forward.


    After the first person moved, they quickly nced at the jade box in Bing Xuan''s hand.


    "Martial Uncle, there really are..."


    The word "monsters" remained unspoken.


    "Move aside," Bing Xuan said, not believing it.


    As soon as Bing Xuan looked through the microscope, his eyes widened in disbelief.


    "This ss slide must be dirty," Bing Xuan said immediately.


    "You can clean it yourself," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    Bing Xuan quickly cleaned the ss slide and looked again through the microscope after cing another drop of the Spring of Life. Once again, he saw the so-called "monsters."


    Bing Xuan was in a predicament! The purest water he had used to deceive Bei Qingsi turned out to have disgusting wriggling creatures in it. How could he salvage his dignity now?


    Zhong Shan continued inviting others, "Anyone who hasn''t seen it yet,e take a look!"


    Why was Zhong Shan so confident? How did he know there were "monsters" inside? Whether they were there initially or not, Zhong Shan didn''t know. But when Bing Xuan opened the jade box to show Bei Qingsi, he set himself up for failure. Zhong Shan knew from a young age that the transparent air was full of countless microorganisms. What kind, he didn''t know, but he knew they were there. Even distilled water, once exposed to air, would have microorganisms in it. Plus, with the life energy in the Spring of Life, those microorganisms would thrive.


    Bing Xuan was unlucky. The Spring of Life might have been pure initially, but leaving it open was a mistake. Microorganisms from the air would proliferate in such a life-rich environment.


    After inviting more people to see the microorganisms, Zhong Shan turned to Bing Xuan, whose face had turned dark with anger.


    "Elder, what''s your name again?" Zhong Shan asked, pretending to forget.


    "Bing Xuan!" Bing Xuan''s voice was icy cold.


    "Oh, it doesn''t matter. Look, a single drop of this so-called Spring has so many ''ancient fierce beasts'' in it. Imagine how many there are in the whole box. Sigh..." Zhong Shan shook his head, leaving his sentence unfinished.


    Bing Xuan gritted his teeth, his eyes fixed on Zhong Shan, his body trembling with rage.


    "Sigh, forget it. Corpse Four, there''s nothing interesting about these ancient fierce beasts. Let''s go back to our game," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head in feigned disappointment.


    "Oh, and youngdy, you can keep this device. If anyone gives you some ''Spring'' in the future, use it to check for ancient fierce beasts. Don''t get hurt by them," Zhong Shan said as he walked away, leaving behind a trail of sarcasticments.


    Bing Xuan, seething with anger, grabbed the jade box and disappeared in a sh, leaving a cold snort behind.


    Seeing Bing Xuan vanish, Bei Qingsi let out a long sigh of relief. After the other disciples finished looking at the "ancient fierce beasts," Bei Qingsi collected the device and walked over to the pavilion, giving Zhong Shan a slight bow.


    "Thank you for your help earlier. May I know your names?" Bei Qingsi asked.


    Bei Qingsi knew Zhong Shuai''s name but not Corpse Four''s.


    "Oh, he''s called Corpse Four. You can call him Fourth Brother. I''m Zhong Shuai. You can call me... well, if that''s too much, you can call me Da Shuai (Great Marshal)," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Earlier..." Bei Qingsi started to say something.


    "Earlier? It was nothing. I just can''t stand some annoying flies. If you have something to do, go ahead," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Bei Qingsi looked at Zhong Shan deeply, then nodded, "Thank you!"


    Although Zhong Shan did not acknowledge Bei Qingsi, he was always watching over her from afar. He did not want to burden her with any psychological stress nor did he want to create any emotional obstacles for himself. Just watching her from a distance was enough. It was a gentle emotion, like a drizzle nourishing Zhong Shan''s heart. There was no need for overt disys; just looking at her from afar was sufficient.


    In the evening, Bei Qingsi sat alone atop a nearby hill, gazing at the star-filled sky and a bright moon. She seemed lost in thought, perhaps reminiscing about someone, her face reflecting a mix of emotions��sometimes smiling, sometimes sorrowful.


    Zhong Shan sat in the pavilion, watching her, reminiscing about their open-hearted conversation from decades ago. Seeing Bei Qingsi''s sorrowful expression, his strong heart softened once again. With a slight sigh, he rummaged through his storage bracelet, finding a small ck basin. With a step, he flew up the hill.


    As Zhong Shan approached, Bei Qingsi immediately noticed his presence.


    "Sir?" Bei Qingsi asked, slightly puzzled.


    "May I sit down?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Mm," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    Zhong Shan sat down beside Bei Qingsi, took a deep breath, and said, "I noticed you seemed lost in thought earlier. What were you thinking about so deeply?"


    "Nothing," Bei Qingsi shook her head, clearly not willing to open up to anyone just yet.


    "Do you find the starry sky beautiful?" Zhong Shan looked up at the sky.


    Bei Qingsi also looked up, nodding, "The starry sky is infinitely beautiful, but it''s so distant."


    "Earlier, I heard you mention to Elder Bing Xuan that many people in the Longevity Realm bother you," Zhong Shan asked.


    "No one dares to; with a Dao Lord''s protection, no one dares to trouble me. They pursue me because of my unique physique," Bei Qingsi shook her head.


    "Like that pure water?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "Yes, like that pure water," Bei Qingsi nodded with a smile, but the smile was more forced than genuine.


    Zhong Shan nodded, "From your conversation with Elder Bing Xuan earlier, I understood. I am not capable enough to find pure water for you; it''s too difficult. However, I can give you the starry sky."


    "Huh?" Bei Qingsi was slightly taken aback. This was what she had mentioned to Bing Xuan earlier in the day.


    Zhong Shan took out the small ck basin and ced it between them. Under Bei Qingsi''s puzzled gaze, he slowly poured clear water into the basin.


    As the water filled the basin, the reflection of the starry sky and therge moon appeared in the water.


    "This is the starry sky. You can try to grasp it," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    The starry sky shimmered in the basin, looking beautiful and enchanting.


    Bei Qingsi stared at the reflection, her eyes wide with wonder. She gently touched the surface of the water, causing ripples to distort the stars and moon. A soft smile formed on her lips, genuine this time, and she looked at Zhong Shan with gratitude and a hint of curiosity.


    "Thank you," Bei Qingsi said softly, her voice filled with emotion.


    Zhong Shan nodded, feeling a warmth spread through his heart as he watched Bei Qingsi find a moment of joy amidst her sorrow.

 Chapter 418: The Evil Altar

    <h4>Chapter 418: The Evil Altar</h4>


    A basin of clear water reflected the starry sky. The water rippled slightly, causing the stars to shimmer and dance.


    "Do you see it?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "Yes," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    "Put your hand in and try to catch the stars you like," Zhong Shan said, smiling at the basin.


    Bei Qingsi looked at Zhong Shan, aplex emotion flickering in her eyes.


    "Go on, try it!" Zhong Shan urged with a yful smile.


    "Alright," Bei Qingsi nodded gently and dipped her hand into the basin.


    The reflections of the stars seemed to fall into her palm as she reached in.


    "Catch them, catch them!" Zhong Shan encouraged.


    Bei Qingsi''s hand grasped at the water as if truly capturing the stars in her hand. She did this several times, each time finding joy rather than boredom, gradually brightening her mood.


    "I caught them, I caught them!" Bei Qingsi said with a smile.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi''s happy expression, Zhong Shan smiled warmly.


    Unknowingly, a long time had passed.


    Zhong Shan nced at the sky and said to Bei Qingsi, "Keep this. At least every night, you''ll have the starry sky with you."


    "Thank you," Bei Qingsi said, smiling as she ced the ck basin on herp.


    "Alright, I should go now. If your suitors find me, I''ll be in trouble," Zhong Shan said with a slight smile. He bid Bei Qingsi farewell and made his way down the mountain.


    As Bei Qingsi watched Zhong Shan''s receding figure, her previous smile faded. Biting her lip, she watched until he disappeared from sight, tears slipping down her cheeks and into the basin, creating ripples in the water.


    Three dayster, leaders from different regions gathered in the valley, each bringing people who had recently activated their Divine Seals, converging in Wu City.


    Zhong Shan strolled through the city with Old Zhao.


    "Marshal Zhong, I know you''re a smart man and an excellent persuader," Old Zhao said during their walk, making it hard for others to overhear.


    "Old Zhao, whatever you need, just say it," Zhong Shan replied.


    "I suspect we might have arrived at the headquarters," Old Zhao said gravely.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked puzzled.


    "I saw some high-ranking officials from the Jin Dynasty. Many of them hold real power, and I''ve met them before," Old Zhao exined.


    "Old Zhao, are you suggesting that the Jin Emperor is the so-called ''master''? That the Jin Dynasty is full of Demon Legion members?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "It''s very possible. So, with just those thirty-some people from the Longevity Realm, we can''t kill the master," Old Zhao said, looking around cautiously.


    Zhong Shan frowned.


    "What do you suggest, Old Zhao?" Zhong Shan asked, still frowning.


    "We need all the people from the Longevity Realm toe here, and quickly. I have a feeling that the master''s grand n is nearingpletion," Old Zhao said.


    "And?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "These people from the Longevity Realm are too arrogant. They definitely won''t want toe. That''s why I need you, the strong persuader, to convince them. If they fail, they can flee. But if we fail, we''ll face the master''s punishment. We can''t afford to lose!" Old Zhao said, looking directly at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan understood the gravity of the situation. He nodded and said, "I''ll do my best to convince them, Old Zhao. We must seed."


    Old Zhao nodded, his face showing both determination and anxiety. The stakes were high, and failure was not an option.


    "Marshal Zhong understands!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    Then, Zhong Shan continued to stroll through the streets for a while. In a store marked with the character ''Rong,'' he left a message before leaving. It was a shop belonging to the Da Rong Merchant Guild.


    At the gathering of the group:


    "We must go!" Zhong Shan dered.


    "What can''t I handle?" Bing Xuan retorted coldly.


    The other members of the Longevity Realm shook their heads, evidently very confident in their abilities, given their many experts at the Convergence stage.


    Zhong Shan looked at everyone, shaking his head before focusing on Bing Xuan. "The Jin Emperor is at least of the Imperial Realm. If he is indeed the demon leader, are you confident you can handle him?"


    Bing Xuan sneered.


    "What if the Jin Emperor has the Divine Seal, further increasing his power to the Emperor Realm? Can you handle that?" Zhong Shan continued.


    Upon hearing this, everyone frowned.


    "Indeed, your cultivation levels are high, but don''t forget, we''re in Wu City, surrounded by thousands of troops and numerous Convergence stage generals. If they activate their Divine Seals, how many can you handle?" Zhong Shan said earnestly.


    The crowd hesitated after hearing Zhong Shan''s words.


    "Martial Uncle, you are the most familiar with this area. Please inform the other three factions of the Longevity Realm and have theme here quickly!" Bei Qingsi suggested.


    Bing Xuan looked at Bei Qingsi and then at Zhong Shan, frowning heavily before finally nodding in agreement.


    <strong>Jin Dynasty, Imperial Pce, Court Hall</strong>


    A man in ck robes sat on the throne, wearing a t crown, his face extremely pale with a hint of green light emanating from his eyes. He was the Jin Emperor.


    In the long court hall, only one person stood in the ministers'' area��Monk Sekong.


    The grand doors of the hall were closed, and only the two of them were present.


    "Sekong, how are things progressing?" the Jin Emperor asked calmly.


    Sekong replied with utmost respect, "Those who were supposed toe have mostly arrived. Nine groups of people, their hearts and souls have all been delivered to the altar, along with about three thousand people with activated Divine Seals."


    "Three thousand? Heh, these are the ones who were captured and imnted with the Divine Seal during their cultivation, right?" the Jin Emperor asked nonchntly.


    "Yes! These are not the ones trained from childhood. There is a chance they might betray us," Sekong replied respectfully.


    "Well, then let them observe the ceremony," the Jin Emperor nodded.


    "But? How can they observe the ceremony alongside the death warriors?" Sekong frowned.


    "The dragon vein''s fortune has already weakened significantly. If it''s not enough, we can use their blood, flesh, and souls to supplement it. Those who wake up can be used by me," the Jin Emperor said calmly.


    "Understood!" Sekong nodded, immediately grasping the emperor''s intention.


    "When I begin, I must not be disturbed by any external forces, or all will be lost. Although your cultivation is low, you are the one I trust the most. Take my token and guard Wu City. Do not let anything interrupt my dark ritual," the Jin Emperormanded.


    "Yes!" Sekong responded immediately.


    "The time is set for tomorrow night, the night of the full moon," the Jin Emperor dered.


    "Yes!" Sekong bowed with utmost reverence.


    The day after Bing Xuan left, Old Zhao summoned everyone.


    "Follow me to meet the master immediately!" Old Zhao''s eyes shed with concern.


    The group, now aware of the grave situation, moved quickly, prepared for the impending confrontation with their formidable foe.


    Upon hearing Old Zhao''s instructions, everyone was slightly taken aback. So soon? Their Martial Uncle had only left a day ago!


    "When can your people reach more of the Longevity Realm members?" Old Zhao asked, looking worriedly at Bei Qingsi.


    "It should be soon! At least the stronger ones should arrive shortly," Bei Qingsi replied, frowning.


    "Alright, follow meter, and don''t say anything until we meet the master. Don''t speak a word," Old Zhao instructed.


    "Understood," everyone nodded.


    They followed Old Zhao out of the small courtyard. They were in the eastern courtyard, while other courtyards were also filled with people. The leaders merely exchanged nods and led their groups out of the valley in silence.


    Outside the valley, Sekong was waiting.


    "You are thest group. Follow me quickly!" Sekong urged.


    "Alright," everyone nodded.


    Soon, Sekong led them to the imperial pce. Outside the pce, a eunuch took over Sekong''s task and led the approximately one thousand people into the pce.


    As they entered, Sekong noticed someone among them��Zhong Shuai! Sekong found Zhong Shuai''s back familiar but couldn''t quite ce it. In the meantime, the group had disappeared from Sekong''s sight. He shook his head, dismissing the thought, and returned to his duties.


    Zhong Shan followed the thousand people deeper into the pce. The surroundings were filled with restrictive formations, seemingly to prevent external threats, and there were many guards stationed around.


    The eunuch led them to a hall with arge underground entrance. The group descended into the hall, illuminated by numerous night pearls.


    Below, Zhong Shan found a massive underground space, twice the size of a ser field he had seen in his youth. It was a vast underground chamber.


    The edges were lined with people, around nine thousand in total.


    However, the number of people was not the main concern. Whaty in the underground space was horrifying. Strange, sinister-looking trenches crisscrossed the floor like runes, connecting to threerge pools at the edges.


    Three enormous pools, each filled with something vile. One pool contained soul stones, including the ones Zhong Shan had recently submitted. The second pool was filled with human hearts, a massive mound of hearts numbering in the millions, congealed with blood and crawling with maggots.


    The third pool was even more horrific��filled with dead infants, still attached to their centas, indicating they were ripped from their mothers'' wombs. The sight was beyond gruesome.


    These pools, filled with unspeakable evil, were connected by the trenches to a central circr jade tform. The tform emitted a faint yellow glow and was inscribed with many jade runes, looking incredibly eerie.


    "This is an altar!" Mr. Corpse whispered to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s expression hardened. The situation was worse than he had imagined. The evil nature of the altar,bined with the grotesque offerings in the pools, indicated a dark ritual of unimaginable malice.


    Everyone stood in stunned silence, the horrifying scene rendering them speechless. The sinister energy in the chamber was palpable, sending shivers down their spines.

 Chapter 419: The Ginseng Fruit

    <h4>Chapter 419: The Ginseng Fruit</h4>


    "What is this for?" a disciple from the Longevity Realm frowned.


    "Use your eyes, not your mouth. Watch and don''t speak," Old Zhao whispered.


    The group nodded with curious expressions and, under the eunuch''s guidance, stood in a corner of the underground chamber, waiting quietly.


    Zhong Shan stood at the edge, watching the central circr jade tform that emitted a faint yellow glow. The yellow light felt familiar to him. What was it? Qi luck? Yes, it seemed very much like qi luck.


    Bei Qingsi stood beside Zhong Shan. Whether it was because of the starry sky in a basin from the other night or something else, Bei Qingsi unconsciously stood in front of Zhong Shan, as if shielding him.


    Everyone waited silently. The entire underground za exuded an eerie atmosphere, filled with a deathly stillness.


    They waited until midnight, when the full moon should be high in the sky outside.


    From the entrance, another group of people finally arrived. Leading them was a man wearing a t crown and a dragon robe, exuding an aura of boundless dominance��the Jin Emperor!


    "Greet the master!" a group of people in the distance bowed respectfully.


    Master?


    The others quickly bowed as well, "Greet the master."


    The Jin Emperor ignored everyone and continued walking towards the central jade tform. The people who followed him stopped at the entrance and, with a wave, a Dragon-Suppressing Stone fell, sealing the entrance. They then cast several spells, causing the surrounding stone walls to shimmer with multi-colored light, forming an isted array.


    The Jin Emperor ascended the jade tform and coldly surveyed the crowd.


    "You''ve all worked hard during this time," the Jin Emperor said.


    "Serving the master is our honor," the crowd responded immediately.


    The Jin Emperor nodded and did not waste words on these insignificant subordinates. He waved his sleeve.


    "Rooooaaarrrrr~~~~~~~"


    A dragon''s roar echoed from beneath the jade tform, carrying a note of pain.


    With the dragon''s roar, the yellow light from the jade tform suddenly intensified.


    "@#��%...&������#��%..."


    The Jin Emperor began chanting an iprehensible incantation, filled with an evil tone. As he chanted, his sleeve moved rhythmically, as if performing some kind of ritual.


    "Waah~ Waah~ Waah~ Waah~ Waah~"


    From the pool filled with dead infants, the sound of countless babies crying suddenly echoed. Though the infants were clearly dead, their cries resonated from the maggot-infested pile of corpses, causing everyone''s hair to stand on end.


    Initially, the cries came only from the pool, but soon, they echoed throughout the entire underground space. It felt as if the cries were right by everyone''s ears, or as if a baby was crying on their shoulders, creating an incredibly horrifying atmosphere.


    "@#��%...&������#��%..."


    The incantation continued, and after the baby cries, countless green ghosts emerged from the pool of soul stones. In this peculiar environment, everyone could see the green ghosts, which seemed to be squeezed out of the soul stones. Suddenly, the entire space was filled with ghosts. They burst forth, filling the area, and the spectators saw the tormented faces of the ghosts pressing against them.


    The sight and sounds were terrifying. As the incantation continued, the evil altar''s true purpose became increasingly clear. This was no ordinary ritual��it was a dark ceremony of immense malice, designed to harness the power of life and death for a sinister goal.


    The scene became extremely terrifying.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    "Wuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu!"


    Countless ghosts screamed in agony, their faces contorted as if they sensed their imminent destruction, filled with indescribable fear, crying out in sheer torment. Combined with the sound of the dead infants'' wails, anyone unprepared would have been scared witless on the spot. This underground space resembled a hellishndscape, akin to the Avici Hell.


    The group also saw that in the distance, the pool filled with human hearts began to emit a bright red light.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    It seemed as if all the hearts were beating, providing powerful energy to the Jin Emperor. The red light, green light, and cries created an overwhelmingly evil atmosphere around the altar.


    "@#��%...&������#��%..."


    The Jin Emperor''s incantation continued. The trenches filled with blood began to glow with a dark red light, while the yellow light from the jade tform intensified, producing a powerful suction force. The surrounding ghosts were drawn in one by one, trying to escape but failing to elude the jade tform''s grasp. Each ghost was pulled in, showing endless fear.


    The evil ritual caused the sky above the Jin Dynasty to turn crimson. The red evil aura, resentment, and killing intent intertwined, making the city''s citizens look up in confusion. What was happening?


    At the edge of the altar, Mr. Corpse squinted his eyes as if he had realized something, waiting for something.


    Zhong Shan looked around. Everyone was swallowing nervously, their faces showing fear. Although they had embarked on the path of cultivation, they had never seen such a malevolent scene. Even the experienced experts from the Longevity Realm were shocked.


    No one dared to move recklessly; all eyes were fixed on the central jade tform. Through the transparent green bodies of the countless souls, they watched the Jin Emperor.


    The yellow jade tform beneath the Jin Emperor''s feet, initially covered with numerous runes, began to pulsate mysteriously, increasing in speed. Gradually, the pulsating runes converged towards the center.


    "Crack!"


    A crisp sound echoed as the jade tform seemed to split open slightly. From the small fissure, a green nt slowly emerged. It looked ethereal, not quite a real nt, seemingly conjured entirely by the evil energy within.


    It was a sapling, which grew rapidly as more ghost and death energy converged, along with the yellow light from the jade tform. In an instant, the sapling turned into a two-meter-tall tree��a type of tree Zhong Shan had never seen before.


    Mr. Corpse''s eyes widened in shock, as if he recognized the tree, his face filled with horror.


    The tree continued to absorb the surrounding evil energy, reducing the number of ghosts by nearly a third in no time. The green tree kept growing, and the cries of the ghosts grew louder and more desperate.


    Suddenly, a faint yellow flower bloomed on the green tree.


    Seeing the yellow flower, Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback. Could it be that the tree was going to bear fruit?


    As Zhong Shan had suspected, a fruit began to form at the base of the beautiful yellow flower. The fruit grew quickly as the tree continued to absorb the evil energy.


    Zhong Shan and the others watched in horrified fascination as the fruit developed, wondering what the Jin Emperor''s sinister ritual aimed to achieve.


    Meanwhile, the yellow energy from the jade tform below seemed to be continually drained.


    Outside, people noticed a strange phenomenon in the sky above the Jin Dynasty. The once-rolling golden qi luck had vanished, reced by an increasingly red aura of malevolence, death, and evil.


    "Boom!"


    It was as if the heavens themselves rejected this evil energy, causing a massive gathering of thunderclouds. What was happening? Where was His Majesty? What happened to the Jin Dynasty''s qi luck?


    At the edge of the underground altar, Zhong Shan''s eyes widened in astonishment. What was he seeing? A ginseng fruit?


    Rubbing his eyes, Zhong Shan saw that the tree at the center of the altar, nourished by qi luck, ghosts, and evil energy, had its flowers wilt and reveal an increasinglyrge purple fruit. The fruit was shaped like an infant, sitting cross-legged, eerily lifelike, identical to the ginseng fruit Zhong Shan remembered from the novels of his youth. Specifically, it resembled the ginseng fruit from "Journey to the West," the legendary fruit cultivated by Zhenyuan Daxian at Wuzhuang Temple, a celestial treasure.


    Could this really be a ginseng fruit?


    No, Zhong Shan realized, the fruit was in the shape of an infant, but the infant''s mouth had a sinister curve, and the entire fruit exuded an aura of boundless evil.


    As the humanoid fruit grew to the size of a fist, all the ghosts in the altar had been drawn into it. The crying of the infants ceased, with only the pool of hearts emitting a faint red glow. The yellow light beneath the jade tform also dimmed considerably.


    The Jin Emperor looked around coldly andmanded, "Kill!"


    "Roar!"


    A group of people immediately grabbed their weapons and charged at the others.


    "Not good! The master wants to kill us!" Old Zhao eximed in panic.


    "Those are the master''s death warriors!" another person cried out.


    "Boom!"


    One person was instantly killed by a massive de, their body falling onto the trench, which was part of the grand altar. A red energy emanated from the corpse, like termites consuming it, returning to the trench, leaving behind a pile of bones. All the energy had been drained by the altar.


    Zhong Shan estimated that the Jin Emperor''s death warriors numbered seven thousand, while there were only three thousand guests.


    The three thousand guests fought fearfully against the death warriors. Regardless of who died, their flesh, blood, and souls would be the energy needed for the altar. Some, in terror, attacked the walls, trying to escape, but the formations were incredibly strong, impossible to break through.


    The number of dead increased steadily. The humanoid fruit began to emit a faint multi-colored glow.


    The Jin Emperor watched the fruit with immense satisfaction. It was nearly ripe, just a bit more to go.


    Zhong Shan observed the chaos, understanding the grim reality. The Jin Emperor''s ritual required immense sacrifices, and both sides, whether death warriors or guests, were fueling this dark ceremony. The altar''s power grew with every death, and the fruit, a symbol of absolute evil, neared itspletion. The air was thick with despair and malevolence, a testament to the Jin Emperor''s horrific ambition.

 Chapter 420: The Mental World Showdown

    <h4>Chapter 420: The Mental World Showdown</h4>


    "Master!" "Master, spare us!"


    The pleas for mercy echoed around the altar. People hoped that the master would show them leniency, but the Jin Emperor would not relent at this critical moment of his long-nned dark ritual. Just a little more was needed.


    Surrounded by desperate cries, everyone rushed at the death warriors. Although there were many death warriors, their cultivation levels were not too high. Was the master intending for the death warriors to perish along with his enemies?


    "Such heavy resentment!" Mr. Corpse suddenly squinted and remarked.


    Mr. Corpse''s tone was clear��resentment was a powerful energy. These people felt they were dying unjustly, having served their master loyally only to be ughtered. The Jin Emperor did this intentionally to collect the resentment energy for the altar.


    "Everyone!" Old Zhao called out, looking at Bei Qingsi.


    "Boom!"


    The aura of the Longevity Realm members suddenly expanded, and the thirty Convergence stage experts disyed their formidable power. Some of the death warriors who rushed at them were instantly sent flying.


    Seeing this sudden change, a sinister smile appeared on the Jin Emperor''s face.


    "Roar!"


    More and more death warriors surrounded them, their foreheads glowing as their Divine Seals activated, significantly boosting their power. The oppressive energy waves surged towards Zhong Shan''s direction, with endless sword and de energy crashing down. Although the thirty Convergence stage experts managed to hold their ground, the number of death warriors kept increasing.


    The spectators, now targets of ughter, quickly regrouped under the leadership of some, forming a coordinated defense alongside the thirty Convergence stage experts, resisting the death warriors'' onught.


    Gradually, the scattered skirmish turned into an organized group battle.


    The Jin Emperor watched coldly from afar, his death warriors relentlessly attacking the gathered experts.


    Bei Qingsi, standing at the back, narrowed her eyes in determination. Her long hair began to float as an intense chill emanated from her, breaking the dye''s hold.


    Completely enveloped in a freezing aura, Bei Qingsi extended her right palm and softly called out, "Freeze!"


    "Crack, crack, crack!"


    The entire underground environment was instantly frozen. The massive energy from her bloodline froze all the blood in the altar''s trenches in an instant, as well as the death warriors, the spectators, and even Zhong Shan.


    The entire underground space turned into an ice cer, with the intense cold pressing towards the Jin Emperor.


    "Roar!"


    With an angry roar, the Jin Emperor repelled the iing chill.


    Bei Qingsi flew into the air, avoiding the frozen people, and charged at the Jin Emperor. Her sword danced, creating a flurry of frost and snow, gathering all the moisture into countless ice swords, which shot towards the Jin Emperor and the humanoid fruit from all directions.


    Seeing the endless ice swords approaching, the Jin Emperor''s eyes turned cold. With a snort, he raised his palm and struck at Bei Qingsi.


    "Boom!"


    An eighteenyer ice shield materialized in front of Bei Qingsi, protecting her from the Jin Emperor''s attack. The sh of their powers filled the air with a sharp, chilling energy, setting the stage for a fierce and decisive battle.


    However, the Jin Emperor, being an Imperial Realm powerhouse, wielded immense strength. His dark purple palm strike shattered all eighteen ice shields with ease and continued towards Bei Qingsi.


    "Boom!"


    The palm strike had been significantly weakened by the ice shields, and Bei Qingsi countered it with a thrust of her sword, releasing a stream of milky-white freezing energy. The chilling force neutralized the Jin Emperor''s palm strike.


    The Jin Emperor''s eyes grew colder.


    "You''re strong," the Jin Emperor said coldly.


    Then, his eyes shed with purple light, and an unusual Divine Seal appeared on his forehead. Unlike the others, his seal was also in the form of the character "��," but it was purple.


    The purple Divine Seal emitted an overwhelming pressure, like a king inspecting his subjects. Those frozen in the ice all had their Divine Seals appear on their foreheads, showing reverence and causing an involuntary shudder among everyone.


    As the purple Divine Seal emerged, the immense pressure erupted, and the Jin Emperor cast a cold nce at Bei Qingsi.


    "Ahhh!"


    Bei Qingsi let out a cry of pain and was sent flying.


    Just one nce, and Bei Qingsi was defeated?


    "Hmph!" the Jin Emperor snorted coldly.


    Despair filled the eyes of the onlookers.


    The Jin Emperor''s aura suddenly expanded, dispelling all the cold energy. The frozen spectators and warriors were released from the ice.


    But now, none of them had the courage to fight. The Jin Emperor''s power was too overwhelming. Everyone felt paralyzed under his immense pressure.


    An Emperor-level being? Zhong Shan was shocked as he looked at the Jin Emperor. No, not quite. This aura was slightly less potent than that of the Bodhisattva Puxiang, but still immensely powerful.


    "Boom!"


    Bei Qingsi crashed against the wall, looking towards the Jin Emperor at the center of the altar with despair.


    The Jin Emperor nced at the humanoid fruit, his eyes cold. The purple Divine Seal on his forehead pulsed slightly as he looked at the crowd andmanded, "Die!"


    The purple Divine Seal pulsed.


    "No!"


    Those who understood the significance screamed in terror, but it was toote.


    With the Jin Emperor''smand, everyone imnted with a Divine Seal exploded into a bloody mist, regardless of whether they were spectators or death warriors. The altar''s trenches quickly absorbed the red energy, converting it into the necessary energy for the humanoid fruit.


    All around the altar, only the Longevity Realm members, Zhong Shan, and Mr. Corpse remained.


    The Jin Emperor''s eyes turned icy.


    Everyone gathered around Bei Qingsi, who had been helped up by Zhong Shan.


    "Quite a few fleas," the Jin Emperor sneered. He extended his hand towards them, and they felt the air around thempressing wildly, crushing them from all sides.


    The immense pressure bore down on them, threatening to crush them. Even the Longevity Realm experts struggled to withstand it.


    Bei Qingsi, still weakened, tried to muster her strength, but it was evident that the Jin Emperor''s power was too overwhelming for them to handle.


    Zhong Shan''s mind raced as he searched for a solution. The pressure was too much, and the situation seemed dire. Yet, there had to be a way to turn the tide, a way to counter this overwhelming force.


    "Think, Zhong Shan, think!" he muttered to himself, knowing that their survival depended on finding a way to disrupt the Jin Emperor''s sinister ns.


    Suddenly, Mr. Corpse, who had been observing quietly, stepped forward. "We need to strike at the core of the altar, disrupt the flow of energy to that fruit. It''s our only chance."


    Zhong Shan nodded. "Let''s do it."


    With newfound determination, the group prepared to make one final stand against the overwhelming might of the Jin Emperor, hoping to shatter his dark ritual and save themselves from certain death.


    "Seal!" Zhong Shan roared.


    Countless talismanic shadows erupted, sealing heaven, earth, spirit, and man. Instantly, all around were filled with these talismanic shadows.


    The foreheads of the Longevity Realm members, including Bei Qingsi and even the Jin Emperor, were each marked with a talismanic shadow. The only exception was Mr. Corpse, who had his own way to counteract such measures, as long as Zhong Shan didn''t specifically target him.


    In an instant, everyone was sealed.


    "Ha!" came the Jin Emperor''s coldugh from the center of the altar. The talismanic shadows seemed to have no effect?


    Zhong Shan carefullyid Bei Qingsi down and, along with Mr. Corpse, quickly advanced. Unbeknownst to them, Bei Qingsi''s eyshes suddenly fluttered.


    The Jin Emperor''s cold snort made Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse extremely cautious, but the Jin Emperor did not move. The talismanic shadow remained on his forehead.


    "It sealed his body but not his spirit. His primordial spirit can leave his body. Be careful!" Mr. Corpse warned.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded, bing even more vignt. The Jin Emperor''s spirit, especially after activating the purple Divine Seal, was nearly at the Emperor Realm. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have been able to defeat Bei Qingsi with just a look.


    "You handle him, and I''ll take care of that evil fruit," Mr. Corpse said directly.


    Zhong Shan did not object, charging towards the Jin Emperor with his de.


    "Hmph!" the Jin Emperor snorted again, and Zhong Shan suddenly found himself in a different location, atop a volcano.


    Zhong Shan stopped in his tracks, bewildered, looking across the volcano at the Jin Emperor. The Jin Emperor''s seal had vanished, and he looked coldly at Zhong Shan.


    An illusion? Zhong Shan''s heart tightened.


    "Where is this?" Zhong Shan called out to the Jin Emperor across the way.


    "This is the mental world, a realm only those at the Emperor Realm can control. Little one, your strength iscking, but your artifact is quite powerful to be able to seal my body," the Jin Emperor replied coldly.


    "So, I''m in your mental world?" Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes.


    Meanwhile, in reality, Mr. Corpse saw Zhong Shan and the Jin Emperor standing motionless, staring at each other, unblinking.


    Mr. Corpse didn''t intervene because he knew he couldn''t help. The Jin Emperor had drawn Zhong Shan into his mental world. If the Jin Emperor died, Zhong Shan could be in serious trouble as well.


    Frowning, Mr. Corpse decided to move towards the evil fruit, leaving Zhong Shan to his fate. If Zhong Shan couldn''t survive this trial, he wasn''t worth following.


    From a distance, Bei Qingsi, who was supposedly sealed, suddenly blinked. Her eyes showed a sh of concern. If Mr. Corpse had seen this, he would have been shocked. How was it possible? Zhong Shan''s seal was supposed to bind both body and spirit, even the Jin Emperor''s body couldn''t move. How could Bei Qingsi blink?


    In the mental world of the Jin Emperor, Zhong Shan and the Jin Emperor stood across a volcano, coldly watching each other. Below them, rolling magma seemed ready to erupt at any moment.

 Chapter 421: Was I Wrong?The Jin Dynasty, Wu City.

    <h4>Chapter 421: Was I Wrong?The Jin Dynasty, Wu City.</h4>


    The massive moon had moved to the western sky. In the southern part of the city, a contingent of troops appeared faintly on the horizon.


    A scout flew into the city and knelt before a general on the city wall.


    "Reporting to the General, arge contingent has been spotted south of the city," the scout reported.


    "Who are they?" the general asked.


    "Not sure, but their banner bears the character ''Zhong'' (��)," the scout replied.


    Underground Chamber


    In the underground chamber, Zhong Shan stood rigidly, surrounded by shing lightning, as if breaking through or cultivating. Opposite him, the Jin Emperor looked utterly defeated, devoid of life. Mr. Corpse, observing, could tell the Jin Emperor waspletely dead.


    Mr. Corpse had already collected the ''Ginseng Fruit,'' and the tree that bore the fruit withered after it was picked. Carefully cing the ''Ginseng Fruit'' in a transparent bottle, he held it securely.


    Mr. Corpse also gathered all the soul stones and even searched the Jin Emperor''s body for valuables.


    As the lightning around Zhong Shan dissipated, he murmured to himself, "Was I wrong?" He frowned deeply, lost in thought.


    "Your Majesty, are you alright?" Mr. Corpse called out to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan looked at Mr. Corpse, his confusion slowly fading.


    "I''m fine," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    "Your Majesty, that was the mental world only those at the Emperor Realm can control. How did you defeat him?" Mr. Corpse asked, astonished.


    Zhong Shan gave Mr. Corpse a peculiar look. How could he exin it? The Jin Emperor''s mental world was indeed powerful, incredibly so. In that world, he was inplete control, and his core consciousness was embodied by a volcano, brimming with boundless fiery energy.


    Unfortunately for him, he encountered Zhong Shan, who was an anomaly. The mental world might be strong, but Zhong Shan''s Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail (Ba Ji Tian Wei) could exit his body. The massiveva pit was entirely consumed by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, leaving the Jin Emperor stupefied.


    Consuming theva was just the start; the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail continued to ''gnaw'' away at the Jin Emperor''s mental world, ultimately devouring the Jin Emperor''s primordial spirit.


    A mental world showdown? The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was the ultimate counter. The immense energy absorbed allowed Zhong Shan to advance another level, reaching the sixth stage of the Nascent Soul phase.


    However, Zhong Shan now harbored doubts about his cultivation.


    In the Jin Emperor''s mental world, he could only perform two actions: mental attacks and using the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. He couldn''t cast any spells or techniques; it was as if he was bound by the rules of another world.


    Why was this the case? Zhong Shan knew it was because he was in the Jin Emperor''s mental world, but did that mean he was entirely powerless there? While it would be eptable if he was defenseless, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail could disregard all rules, reigning supreme even in another''s mental world. So why couldn''t he?


    Was he wrong? Where did he err? No, his cultivation had a w.


    Zhong Shan pondered deeply, signaling Mr. Corpse to stay silent.


    With a grave expression, Zhong Shan realized that if he didn''t resolve this, it would be a significant w in his future cultivation.


    He couldn''t use the Red Luan Heavenly Sutra either.


    Yes, the Red Luan Heavenly Sutra. Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    Wu City


    Back in Wu City, the scout who had reported to the general continued to observe the approaching troops with the "Zhong" banner, wondering what their presence would mean for the unfolding events in the city. The general, meanwhile, prepared his forces, unsure of whether this new group would be friend or foe. The fate of the Jin Dynasty hung in the bnce, its future uncertain amidst the growing turmoil.


    Zhong Shan''s Revtion


    Zhong Shan finally realized what was wrong. The Red Luan Heavenly Sutra, the sixth stage, the beginning of breaking illusions, was the key. It allowed him to see thews of heaven and earth.


    Seeing thesews was immensely powerful. Truly, only those at the Emperor Realm or higher could see them so clearly, but Zhong Shan could see them even at the Golden Core stage.


    Was it a blessing? Or a curse?


    A blessing, because it enabled Zhong Shan to create techniques like "Heaven''s Law: Wind Shatter," a powerful sword technique that had saved him multiple times.


    However, it was also a curse, leading him to rely heavily on the Red Luan Heavenly Sutra. This dependence allowed him to skip over the foundational steps of cultivation. Once he couldn''t see thesews anymore, he would be worse than useless. Even worse, seeing thesews made him abandon the cultivation path he had set for himself.


    Realizing this, Zhong Shan felt a wave of fear.


    No, from now on, he decided, unless it was a matter of life and death, he would not use the "beginning of breaking illusions." He needed to cultivate ording to the foundational methods he had initially chosen.


    Understanding this, Zhong Shan took a deep breath, his mind bing clear again.


    Looking at the lifeless body of the Jin Emperor, Zhong Shan felt a mix of anger and gratitude��anger for the harm done to Bei Qingsi, and gratitude for the realization it had brought him.


    With a coldugh, Zhong Shan approached the corpse, ced his hand on the Jin Emperor''s face, and pushed.


    The Jin Emperor''s body fell backward with a thud, announcing Zhong Shan''splete victory.


    The Awakening


    As Zhong Shan''s hand moved, all the talismanic shadows vanished. Everyone suddenly regained their senses, still trapped in the memory of the Jin Emperor''s oppressive force. The sudden release from the pressure left them in shock.


    Then they saw an unbelievable sight.


    The once-dominant Jin Emperory defeated, and it was Zhong Shuai, who appeared to humiliate him by pressing his hand against the Emperor''s face and pushing him down.


    "ng," the Jin Emperor''s body hit the ground.


    Everyone''s jaws dropped in disbelief.


    The previously timid Zhong Shuai had defeated the Emperor, whose power had reached the Emperor Realm?


    Zhong Shan turned and saw everyone''s stunned faces.


    Before the Battle


    Zhong Shan and the Jin Emperor had battled in the mental world for an hour. Meanwhile, outside the Jin Dynasty, an army of 800,000,manded by Shui Wuhen, charged towards Wu City. This was the message Zhong Shan had sent out through the Da Rong Merchant Guild during his earlier stroll.


    "Kill!"


    The battle cries filled the air, and Wu City descended into chaos.


    "Your Majesty," many soldiers rushed to the pce, seeking the Emperor''smand.


    Sekong emerged.


    "Why are you panicking? What''s happening?" Sekong scolded.


    "We have an urgent military situation to report to His Majesty," the general said.


    "His Majesty is in seclusion. Here is his tiger tally; I have full authority to act on his behalf," Sekong responded immediately.


    The general, holding the tiger tally, nodded. "Yes, sir," he said, knowing the tiger tally granted full authority.


    "Prepare the defenses and hold the city at all costs," Sekongmanded, trying to maintain order amid the growing chaos.


    Back in the Underground Chamber


    In the underground chamber, the battle between Zhong Shan and the Jin Emperor had concluded. Mr. Corpse had secured the Ginseng Fruit and other treasures, and now Zhong Shan stood victorious, having learned a crucial lesson about his cultivation.


    The Longevity Realm members and others began to stir, realizing the magnitude of what had transpired. The seemingly meek Zhong Shuai had defeated the mighty Jin Emperor, shattering their perceptions and leaving them in awe.


    As order began to restore, the 800,000-strong army approached the city, their intentions clear. The battle for Wu City and the fate of the Jin Dynasty hung in the bnce, with Zhong Shan''s unexpected triumph serving as a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil.


    The crowd gazed at the tiger tally in Sekong''s hand.


    "Master Sekong, it''s not good. There are 800,000 troops outside the city, and there are people from the Longevity Realm mixed in among them. We..." The general expressed his concern.


    "Take me to see," Sekong said.


    "Hmm." The crowd immediately led Sekong to the south of the city.


    On the southern city wall, Sekong observed that the troops of the Great Jin Dynasty were engaged in a bloody battle with the external forces. The enemy soldiers were exceptionally fierce. What kind of army was this? Looking around, most of the fallen soldiers belonged to the Great Jin Dynasty.


    Argemand g bore a prominent character "Zhong."


    Many soldiers, unable to withstand the enemy, activated their divine seals, increasing their strength. However, some strange-looking individuals appeared among them.


    "Longevity Realm?" Sekong squinted his eyes.


    "Master Sekong, is His Majesty still in seclusion?" amander stepped forward.


    "General Ma, what is the situation with the opposing army? Zhong? Is there amander with the surname Zhong in the nearby dynasties?" Sekong frowned.


    "No, it shouldn''t be. Master Sekong, this troop doesn''t belong to any nearby dynasty. I have a suspicion. If it''s really that person, we''re in big trouble," General Ma said with a bitter expression.


    "Oh?" Sekong asked in confusion.


    "In the eastern Divine Land, the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty has recently risen to prominence with a super general who single-handedly overthrew two great dynasties. He is currently on a diplomatic mission to the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty and might be passing through this area," General Ma exined.


    "Oh? What''s his name?" Sekong frowned.


    "His name is Zhong Shan!" General Ma said.


    The moment General Ma finished speaking, Sekong''s pupils contracted. "What did you say? Zhong Shan?"


    "Yes! But it might not necessarily be him. As long as His Majestyes out of seclusion, we can surely repel these invaders," General Ma said with a hint of confusion.


    At that moment, Sekong suddenly remembered a silhouette, the one he had sent into the imperial pce, the one following Elder Zhao. It was him, Zhong Shan!


    Recalling the incredibly sinister Zhong Shan, Sekong felt a chill down his spine. He had known Zhong Shan was sinister from the beginning. Even his master had only approved of Zhong Shan. It turned out to be true;ter, when they sent people to check, they found his master was truly dead.


    Looking towards the direction of the imperial pce, Sekong immediately took out the tiger tally. "General Ma, you have alwaysmanded the three armies of the Great Jin Dynasty. Now I hand over the tiger tally to you. Protect Wu City with all your might."


    "Uh, yes!" General Ma was slightly taken aback as he epted the tiger tally.


    After handing over the tiger tally, Sekong immediately turned and left, leaving General Ma with a bewildered expression. Wasn''t this Master Sekong too cowardly?


    Sekong quietly flew away. After leaving Wu City, he looked in its direction, took a deep breath, and said, "Uncle Master, I''m sorry. This nephew needs to stay alive to report to our master!"


    In the sky above the


    Great Jin Dynasty, all the energy was used to nurture the ''Ginseng Fruit''. The sky was filled with a blood-red light, and the intense crimson glow attracted thunderclouds, causing a greatmotion. This disturbance rmed the sects throughout the Great Jin Dynasty.


    Numerous powerful sect members flew towards Wu City.


    Among them was a group of thirty distinguished individuals, all dressed in splendid attire. The leader, a handsome man with a noble aura, exuded a sinister charm that was even more eerie than that of the Mysterious Immortal Zhong Shan had once manipted into battling Mr. Corpse.


    Seeing the sky lit up with red light and thunderbolts, the man let out a peculiar smile.


    "Let''s go!" hemanded.

 Chapter 422: Kneeling Apology

    <h4>Chapter 422: Kneeling Apology</h4>


    Shui Wuhenmanded the army with strength, for it was the elite force of the Heavenly Dynasty. Facing a troop of an imperial dynasty was akin to ughtering pigs and cows, especially with the sudden appearance of strong practitioners from the Longevity Realm.


    Divine Seals? Demon Legion?


    As each general deployed their divine seals, the warriors from the Longevity Realm became even more ferocious. Indeed, it was the headquarters of the Demon Legion. One by one, the generals fell at the hands of these Longevity Realm experts. With the generals dead, their troops became a disorganized mess.


    The citizens within the city, witnessing the emergence of these divine seals, lost their resolve to defend the city alongside the Great Jin Dynasty.


    With the loss of the people''s morale, the battle concluded even faster!


    Soon enough, the city gates were breached, not by Zhong''s army, but by the citizens who opened the gates themselves.


    Countless soldiers charged in, engaging in chaotic skirmishes.


    Nearby experts flew close, observing the strange sight of Wu City and the crimson glow emanating from it.


    "Enter!" Experts from different directions rushed into Wu City.


    Avoiding the battlefield, they searched the city thoroughly.


    Among them was a group of thirty led by a sinister-looking man, also scouring the city.


    Suddenly, someone behind the man eximed, "Marquis, this seems to be an evil ritual. Only such a malevolent and fierce ritual could cause such a massive disturbance��it''s terrifying, with blood-red light shooting into the sky."


    "Do you know where it is?" the sinister man asked.


    "I once followed a ''Geomancer'' and learned some Feng Shui techniques. It''s in the pce," the person replied.


    "Go! Clear the way!" the sinister man ordered.


    The group quickly charged towards the pce.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The thirty of them moved like a battering ram. The pce''s formations exploded under the simultaneous attacks of a dozen people. Layer byyer, the imperial defense formations shattered like ss under the continuous assault of these experts.


    Hearing the powerful explosions, countless experts within the city gathered rapidly, including those from the Longevity Realm, especially Bing Xuan, who had left not long ago.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Finally, the thirty experts broke through thestyer of the protective barrier. The number of onlookers increased, all showing expressions of shock. This small group of thirty was unbelievably formidable.


    Those breaking the formations were only ten people, all at the integration stage? No, they were in the Imperial Realm!


    The spectators were astonished. Who were these people?


    Bing Xuan, standing nearby, was equally shocked. Beside Bing Xuan were three others, also Imperial Realm experts from the Longevity Realm, each leading lower-ranking disciples for training. The four Imperial Realm experts exchanged nces.


    "Marquis, it''s below here. There''s definitely a formation. Just break it open," the previous person said to the sinister man.


    "Break it!" the sinister man ordered.


    "Yes!" The ten Imperial Realm experts at the front immediately responded.


    Underground, the people from the Longevity Realm were dumbfounded, staring at Zhong Shan. He had just pped the Great Jin Emperor to death?


    Zhong Shan approached, giving everyone a slight smile without offering any exnation. After surveying the group, Zhong Shan''s gaze fell upon Bei Qingsi.


    Seeing the tear of joy and worry at the corner of Bei Qingsi''s eye, Zhong Shan felt a mix of emotions.


    Tears?


    Zhong Shan''s heart tightened as he slowly walked over, suddenly realizing that Bei Qingsi might have recognized him.


    Face to face, Zhong Shan looked at Bei Qingsi while the other Longevity Realm members red at him with hostility. If not for Zhong Shan''s earlier disy of overwhelming power, someone might have already stepped forward.


    "I''m sorry, I couldn''t hold back!" Bei Qingsi said, unable to suppress her tears any longer.


    Huh? The Longevity Realm members were stunned. What was happening with their junior sister? But in the next moment, they were even more shocked.


    Zhong Shan reached out, cing his palm on Bei Qingsi''s cheek, gently wiping her tears with his thumb. What was going on? Why was their junior sister sopliant?


    "You don''t need to hold back. It''s my fault," Zhong Shan said tenderly, clearly realizing that Bei Qingsi had recognized him.


    Then, Zhong Shan pulled Bei Qingsi into a tight embrace. She wept softly in his arms, her demeanorpletelypliant.


    The Longevity Realm members were dumbfounded. Truly dumbfounded!


    Was this really the ''Ice Queen'' of the Longevity Realm? What was going on? Could someone tell them? Were they dreaming? Bei Qingsi was being held by this ''ugly man'' and seemed so obedient? Why was this happening? They were handsome, and he was ugly. Was it because he defeated the Great Jin Emperor? Heavens! Was it now the era of the ugly men?


    The thirty senior brothers collectively stood in stunned silence!


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A sudden loud noise shook the interior space violently.


    Everyone was startled, quickly snapping out of their daze and ring coldly upwards.


    With a deafening boom, the grand formation shattered. What kind of powerful force was this? Then, the upper ceiling disintegrated entirely. All the broken stones and earth flew skyward.


    The experts above hurled the debris away.


    Instantly, the entire underground space was exposed, revealing the crowd of powerful figures above.


    Both groups looked at each other in bewilderment. Those outside were equally puzzled by the sight inside.


    Within the grooves of the altar, there was an enormous amount of blood. Threerge pools��one filled with rotting human hearts, another empty, and thest brimming with countless dead infants.


    On the groundy an emperor, and a man and a woman were embracing each other, their faces tear-streaked. A group of white-robed individuals stood watching the live drama like fools. Nearby, a man in ck robes held a bottle.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi and Zhong Shan embracing, Bing Xuan above turned green with rage. Damn it, no wonder she sent me to find reinforcements. In just this short time, she got involved with this pretty boy? No, wait, that ugly man!


    "Bei Qingsi? Finally, I''ve found you, hahaha!" the sinister man leading the thirty experts suddenlyughed wickedly.


    The sudden change left everyone on the altar stunned. Zhong Shan gently released Bei Qingsi from his embrace, turning to coldly face the sinister man whoughed. Did he know Bei Qingsi?


    "Who are you?" Bei Qingsi asked coldly.


    Zhong Shan was slightly surprised that Bei Qingsi didn''t recognize the man.


    "You don''t know me? No matter. In the past, at the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty court, I admired your grace. A descendant of immortals, a body of Kan Ding, hahaha, this marquis just happens to need a warm bed servant. Come with me!" the man sneered wickedly.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes grew cold, and the Longevity Realm members red with anger. Regardless of Bei Qingsi''s rtionship with Zhong Shan, she was still like a goddess to them. How could they allow this vile man to insult her?


    "Bastard!" Zhong Shan roared in anger.


    After his shout, Zhong Shan stepped in front of Bei Qingsi, ring coldly at the marquis opposite him.


    A series of thudding sounds echoed as the sinister man and his subordinatesnded on the ground. Simultaneously, numerous Longevity Realm disciples, along with the zing wolf general, swiftly descended beside Zhong Shan. Countless powerful onlookers watched from the outside.


    "What are you? How dare you hold her?" the sinister man demanded, ring at Zhong Shan.


    As the sinister man questioned Zhong Shan, everyone turned their gaze towards him, especially Bing Xuan, whose eyes were filled with a cold, icy disdain directed at both the sinister man and Zhong Shan.


    "Commander, out of those thirty people, at least fifteen are Imperial Realm experts," the zing wolf general immediately reported, cautioning Zhong Shan.


    Despite the warning, Zhong Shan remained indifferent.


    "She''s my woman. And who the hell are you?" Zhong Shan dered dominantly.


    At Zhong Shan''s words, Bing Xuan''s eyes turned even colder.


    "Hahaha, I''ve seen countless people. Do you think I can''t tell if she''s a virgin or not? Kid, you''ve got guts! Daring to snatch a woman from me?" the sinister manughed wickedly.


    "You''re full of nonsense!" Zhong Shan retorted coldly.


    The sinister man, who had been gloating, was instantly silenced by Zhong Shan''s blunt words. The Longevity Realm members and the onlookers couldn''t help but smirk.


    The sinister man''s face turned stern as he angrily shouted, "The Da Li Heavenly Dynasty is conducting business here. All irrelevant people, get lost!"


    His outburst made all the onlookers fall silent, their brows furrowed in displeasure.


    "Anyone who dares to interfere with the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty''s affairs, kill them!" the sinister manmanded, his voice dripping with murderous intent.


    "Yes!" several of his subordinates immediately responded.


    "Marquis, this kid is only at the Nascent Soul stage, Nascent Soul Sixth Level!" one of his subordinates informed him.


    "Nascent Soul stage? Haha, then chop him up for me. No, I''ll chop him up myself and feed him to the dogs," the sinister man sneered, looking at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan stared coldly at the arrogant man, snorting disdainfully. "You''re from the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty? I''ll give you one chance. Kneel and apologize to Qingsi!"


    Kneel and apologize? Everyone looked at Zhong Shan in astonishment. Was this ugly man out of his mind?


    Although they didn''t know the exact identity of the sinister man, his entourage alone suggested immense power. How powerful? The presence of over ten Imperial Realm experts was already a testament to their strength. The remaining individuals, who hadn''t made a move, likely held even higher positions and had greater strength.


    If that was the case, this group was incredibly formidable. Apart from the sinister man, the twenty-odd Imperial Realm experts could easily sweep through any imperial headquarters.


    What was this ugly man''s situation? Nascent Soul stage? Beside him, there was a wolf general in the Imperial Realm. The Longevity Realm had four Imperial Realm experts, but would they help him? And now he was demanding an apology? No, not just an apology, but for the sinister man to kneel and apologize?

 Chapter 423: Dominating the Sinister Man

    <h4>Chapter 423: Dominating the Sinister Man</h4>


    "Kneel and apologize? Hahaha!" The sinister manughed uncontrobly, his eyes glinting with a cold, menacing light.


    No one had much hope for Zhong Shan, except for the thirty Longevity Realm members who had experienced the altar incident together. Though this ugly man might not look impressive, his strength was undeniable. He exuded an absolute aura of dominance.


    "Report, Commander! The main enemy forces within the city have been eradicated. The remaining stragglers are being pursued," Shui Wuhen rushed over to report, followed by arge contingent of troops.


    Zhong Shan casually rubbed his face, peeling off the disguise he had been wearing.


    Seeing the advancing army, the sinister man smirked coldly. An army? Even if there were ten thousand troops, what could they do to him?


    Rubbing his hands together, the sinister man said coldly, "Kid, you must be tired of living. This marquis will send you on your way. As for Bei Qingsi, no one dares to take her from me!"


    He gave Bei Qingsi a wicked nce.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan looked at Bei Qingsi and said, "You should step back."


    "Be careful," Bei Qingsi said worriedly.


    "Shui Wuhen, station the troops and guard the area. Anyone who causes trouble, kill them!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, sir!" Shui Wuhen responded promptly.


    "Mr. Corpse!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Present!" Mr. Corpse replied immediately.


    "I need to teach this scoundrel a lesson. Keep an eye on hisckeys!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    Lackeys? Scoundrel? The sinister man and his Imperial Realm subordinates were infuriated. How dare he speak to them like this?


    "Yes!" Mr. Corpse looked at Zhong Shan in surprise but quickly nodded in agreement.


    The onlookers couldn''t help but sweat nervously for Zhong Shan. This kid was doomed.


    "Scoundrel? Did you just call me a scoundrel? Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" the sinister man roared furiously. With a swipe of his w, the air became scorching hot. A fiery red streak shed towards Zhong Shan. Everyone quickly moved out of the way, knowing that the power of a Consolidation Stage expert was something only another Consolidation Stage expert could withstand. Zhong Shan, at the Nascent Soul Stage, was surely doomed.


    Suddenly, everyone felt a gust of wind within the fiery environment. A ck shadow shed by.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The sinister man was sent flying, crashing into the cave wall. It was so sudden that no one had expected a third party to intervene.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The ck shadow followed, colliding with the sinister man again, causing the shadow to retreat.


    The sinister man, however, spat out blood and red coldly.


    It was Zhong Shan. The ck shadow was Zhong Shan. His power had suddenly surged. With incredible speed, he had reached the sinister man and dealt a heavy blow to the unsuspecting opponent.


    "Kid, you''re good at hiding your strength!" the sinister man spat out the blood at the corner of his mouth, his eyes growing colder as he red at Zhong Shan.


    The sinister man''s Imperial Realm subordinates were about to make a move.


    "Don''t interfere. I will kill him myself!" the sinister man shouted.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan snorted coldly and charged at the sinister man again.


    With a wave of his hand, he unleashed a massive yellow palm print formed entirely of energy, pressing down on the sinister man with overwhelming force.


    The sinister man''s eyes shed with a murderous glint as he struck out with a palm towards Zhong Shan.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The energy palm strikes collided explosively, creating a massive shockwave. Neither man was willing to yield, and their palms inched closer until they were pressed tightly together.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes widened, and he exerted more force.


    The sinister man suddenly felt a surge of lightning from Zhong Shan''s palm. A dark thunderbolt ignored his defenses and surged into his body.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a deafening roar, the sinister man felt as though his right arm had exploded. Although his arm remained intact, the intense pain from the internal explosion of the dark thunderbolt was unbearable, shooting through his brain and nearly causing him to faint from the agony.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Taking advantage of the situation, Zhong Shan grabbed the sinister man''s right arm, pivoted to his back, and seized his left arm with his other hand. With a powerful stomp, Zhong Shan forced the man to his knees.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Even though the sinister man activated his full-body protective energy, Zhong Shan''s relentless assault was too swift.


    Zhong Shan''s immense strength bent the man''s arms backward. If he weren''t a cultivator, they would have snapped already.


    With a forceful step, Zhong Shan drove the sinister man to the ground, forcing him to kneel in humiliation.


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The sinister man screamed in pain and rage.


    The scene became extremely eerie. Everything happened so quickly that most people felt as if they were dreaming.


    In front of them, the two men had their protective shields up, their powerful auras shing. The sinister man bled from the mouth, his face contorted in pain, his arms twisted behind him by Zhong Shan, who stood over him triumphantly.


    "Good!" Someone in the crowd couldn''t help but cheer in satisfaction.


    Seeing the arrogant sinister man kneeling in such a humiliating position filled everyone with an indescribable sense of joy.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A sudden explosion on the right caught everyone''s attention. They turned to see the sinister man''s subordinates staring in shock at Mr. Corpse.


    One of the Imperial Realm experts was sent flying, blood spurting from his mouth, caught by another Imperial Realm expert.


    A palm print had pierced through his chest, leaving his clothing shredded and his chest a ghastly green, clearly poisoned.


    Mr. Corpse had stopped the Imperial Realm experts who tried to intervene.


    No, it wasn''t Mr. Corpse himself, but a humanoid monster he controlled. Wrapped in white cloth, the creature emitted no aura, resembling a dead man, yet no one dared to underestimate it. It had shattered the experts'' confidence with a single strike. With one blow, an Imperial Realm expert had been severely injured. Only Zhong Shan knew that this humanoid monster was the Buddha''s corpse they had recently acquired from the Pure Land of Bliss.


    The sinister man watched this scene in pain and despair.


    "Qingsi,e here!" Zhong Shan called out.


    Bei Qingsi immediately flew over.


    "Now, speak!" Zhong Shan demanded, looking down at the sinister man.


    The sinister man gritted his teeth, his face twisted with rage and defiance.


    "I''ll count to three. If you don''t apologize by then, you can say goodbye to your arms!" Zhong Shan''s voice was icy.


    The crowd held their breath, watching the tense standoff. The sinister man''s subordinates were too intimidated by Mr. Corpse''s power to intervene, while the onlookers marveled at Zhong Shan''s dominance.


    "One," Zhong Shan began counting.


    The sinister man''s expression darkened, but he remained silent.


    "Two," Zhong Shan continued, increasing the pressure on the sinister man''s arms.


    A wave of pain shot through the sinister man''s body, and he trembled, his defiance wavering.


    "Three," Zhong Shan finished, his grip tightening further.


    "Wait!" the sinister man finally cried out, his voice filled with pain and humiliation. "I... I apologize!"


    "Say it to her," Zhong Shanmanded, nodding towards Bei Qingsi.


    The sinister man clenched his jaw, his pride shattered. "Bei Qingsi, I apologize," he forced out, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Satisfied, Zhong Shan let go of the sinister man''s arms, pushing him to the ground. "Remember this lesson. Never underestimate those you deem weaker."


    The crowd erupted in murmurs, astonished by Zhong Shan''s overwhelming power and authority. The sinister man''s subordinates, nowpletely subdued, did not dare to make a move.


    Bei Qingsi looked at Zhong Shan with a mixture of gratitude and admiration. She had never seen anyone stand up for her so fiercely.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan said, turning to leave with Bei Qingsi.


    As they walked away, the sinister many on the ground, nursing his wounds and shattered pride, while the crowd dispersed, leaving him to his humiliation.


    Zhong Shan seized the moment and channeled two dark thunderbolts into the sinister man''s arms.


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" The sinister man screamed in agony, sweat streaming down his face.


    "One."


    "Two."


    Zhong Shan counted quickly.


    "Three!"


    "I''m sorry!" The sinister man cried out in fear.


    "What did you say? I can''t hear you!" Zhong Shan demanded.


    "I''m sorry!" The sinister man shouted, his body drenched in sweat from the pain.


    "Hmph." Zhong Shan infused a dozen more dark thunderbolts into the man''s body and kicked him away.


    The sinister man convulsed on the ground, his pain so intense that he could barely move. Zhong Shan''s attack had been merciless.


    The onlookers gazed at Zhong Shan with a mix of satisfaction and fear. A Nascent Soul stage cultivator had defeated someone in the Consolidation stage? Unbelievable!


    Of course, they didn''t know that Zhong Shan had defeated a Consolidation stage expert named Liu Dao when he was only at the first level of the Nascent Soul stage. Now, at the sixth level, his power had grown immensely.


    "Get out!" Zhong Shan roared. The thirty Imperial Realm experts, filled with resentment, quickly carried the sinister man and flew away.


    Everyone witnessed the entire process.


    Shui Wuhen looked at Mr. Corpse with astonishment. An Imperial Realm expert had been defeated by a humanoid weapon controlled by Mr. Corpse with just one palm strike? Was this the powerful ally the Commander had found? Mr. Corpse might look weak, but his power was earth-shattering.


    Shui Wuhen also thought about Lin Xiao, who was currently organizing the pursuit of stragglers. Could Lin Xiao be just as powerful? Swallowing hard, Shui Wuhen felt a deep sense of awe.


    The zing wolf general also looked at the pale-faced Mr. Corpse with shock. This seemingly frail man turned out to be such a formidable figure.


    Bing Xuan watched coldly, experiencing aplex mix of emotions.


    Zhong Shan, holding Bei Qingsi''s hand, flew out of the altar and headed straight for thergest pce nearby. Everyone watched but dared not intervene. Intervene? They''d have to get past Mr. Corpse first.


    In the Great Jin Dynasty''s main hall, Zhong Shan embraced Bei Qingsi and said, "Qingsi,e with me."


    Bei Qingsi, lying in Zhong Shan''s arms, shook her head and bit her lip.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhong Shan asked, noticing tears welling up in Bei Qingsi''s eyes.


    "I need to fulfill my father''sst wish," Bei Qingsi said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "My father''s death was partly due to treacherous ministers, but also a deliberate act to trigger my bloodline inheritance," Bei Qingsi said bitterly.


    "What do you mean?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Don''t ask. I can''t leave with you now. I must go to the Longevity Realm to retrieve what belongs to the Bei family," Bei Qingsi shook her head.


    "The Bei family''s possessions?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "My father left a letter exining that our ancestors, immortals, left something for our family. However, as the Bei family declined, it ended up in the Longevity Realm, and we lost control over it," Bei Qingsi said.


    "When I be powerful enough, I''ll get it back for you," Zhong Shan said with a hint of defiance.


    Shaking her head, Bei Qingsi said, "No, it won''t take long. I will be able to get it myself."


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was puzzled.


    "The Longevity Realm''s Six Veins. The relic left by my immortal ancestors is the treasured item of the Water Vein. Soon, I will be the master of the Water Vein, and then I will be able to retrieve it," Bei Qingsi said.

 Chapter 424: The Elixir of Immortality

    <h4>Chapter 424: The Elixir of Immortality</h4>


    Bei Qingsi departed, leaving Zhong Shan feeling a sense of loss. However, he understood that this separation was necessary for their future reunion.


    At the Great Jin Dynasty''s imperial pce:


    "Commander, all the confiscated items have been sorted," Shui Wuhen reported.


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Commander, why did you let that man go?" Shui Wuhen asked again.


    "In the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, have you ever seen a marquis travel with nearly thirty Imperial Realm guards?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    Indeed, even Princess Qianyou only had two Imperial Realm guards, Ah Da and Ah Er. What was the true identity of this sinister man?


    "But..." Shui Wuhen was slightly worried, remembering the man''s resentful gaze as he left.


    "We will be staying in the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty for a while. Killing him wouldn''t be wise. However, I hope he doesn''t cause trouble for me again, or I won''t spare his identity," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "Understood," everyone nodded.


    "Do you know who that man is?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No idea," Shui Wuhen shook his head.


    "Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, Marquis Xiaoyao! Nie Kuang!" Lin Xiao suddenly said.


    Everyone except Zhong Shan was surprised.


    Lin Xiao smiled at the crowd, "I just managed to gather this information."


    Shui Wuhen looked at Lin Xiao with aplex expression. Lin Xiao hadn''t been present at the time; how did he manage to gather such information?


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded, taking note of it.


    "Mr. Corpse, do you recognize this humanoid fruit?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at the ''human ginseng fruit'' in a transparent bottle nearby.


    "Yes, I''ve seen a few of them when I was younger," Mr. Corpse replied.


    The group was taken aback. Seen a few? Since learning about the sacrificial rituals, everyone had searched their memories but found no rted knowledge. Mr. Corpse had seen a few?


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s called the ''Mingyuan Pill''," Mr. Corpse replied.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was intrigued.


    "The Mingyuan Pill has a very miraculous effect. Whoever consumes it can extend their lifespan by a thousand years," Mr. Corpse said.


    "What?" Shui Wuhen looked at the humanoid pill in astonishment. A thousand years? Could it really be so miraculous?


    "Are there any side effects?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Mr. Corpse smiled faintly, "Indeed. At least, none of us here are fortunate enough to consume it."


    "Why?" Shui Wuhen immediately asked.


    "Do you remember the process of making the Mingyuan Pill? It''s an evil pill. The karmic burden is too heavy! While it increases lifespan by a thousand years, it also brings endless karmic obstacles. In this world, apart from the Heavenly Dynasty''s sovereign or the Lord of a Holy Land, no one can withstand this endless karmic burden. At worst, one''s cultivation would stagnate; at best, they would be gued by misfortune, with everything going wrong, and possibly even dying," Mr. Corpse sighed, shaking his head.


    "Then why make such a thing?" Shui Wuhen asked immediately.


    "I don''t know," Mr. Corpse shook his head.


    But Zhong Shan could tell that Mr. Corpse likely knew why the Great Jin Emperor had created it.


    Staring at the Mingyuan Pill, Zhong Shan''s eyes gradually narrowed in contemtion. The others, seeing Zhong Shan deep in thought, quietly waited. Gradually, Zhong Shan''s eyes grew brighter, and a rare smile appeared at the corners of his mouth.


    "Does Nie Fancheng recognize this Mingyuan Pill?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Mr. Corpse.


    "At that level, he should recognize it," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    "Then let''s package it and make a grand entrance into the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty," Zhong Shan said with a wicked smile.


    "Make a grand entrance?" The group looked at Zhong Shan curiously.


    "Commander, are you nning to use it to exchange for Princess Ling''er?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "Exchange? Ling''er is already my wife; why would I need to exchange for her?" Zhong Shan said with a peculiar smile.


    "Commander, you won''t be giving it to Nie Fancheng, will you?" Lin Xiaoughed.


    "Of course not. I intend to use it to stir the hearts of cultivators across the Da Li realm," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Huh? Just with this? This thing that no one dares to consume? How can it stir the hearts of the world? At most, it will cause a stir in the capital of the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty," Shui Wuhen said in surprise.


    "This isn''t just any item," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Oh?" The group looked at Zhong Shan.


    "This bottle contains the ''Elixir of Immortality''," Zhong Shan said with a wicked grin.


    "Elixir of Immortality?" The group was momentarily stunned.


    "Yes, the Elixir of Immortality. Do you think that could stir the hearts of cultivators worldwide?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    As the group marveled, Lin Xiao suddenly gasped, then looked at Zhong Shan in astonishment, "The Elixir of Immortality? Commander, this won''t just stir the hearts of cultivators, it will focus the world''s attention on us, putting us in the boiling pot of chaos wherever we go. It will turn every ce we arrive into a battleground of upheaval."


    The Elixir of Immortality��immortality itself was the goal every cultivator pursued. If such a potion truly existed, wouldn''t it cause an uproar? Who wouldn''t want to live forever? Obtaining the Elixir of Immortality would mean eternal life. It would undoubtedly cause secret tides and boiling conflicts.


    Using a useless pill to manipte the hearts of the world''s strongest?


    "But will people believe it?" Shui Wuhen asked, puzzled.


    "As long as we spread the word, people will eventually believe it. And once we reach the capital of the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, Li Huo Holy Capital, I can make everyone believe it," Zhong Shan said with absolute certainty.


    Listening to these bold words, the group wasn''t surprised because Zhong Shan was the one saying them. They felt a slight thrill at the prospect��using this useless Mingyuan Pill to deceive the world, what a grand scheme.


    "When do we start?" Shui Wuhen asked, a bit excited.


    "Not now. In a few months, when we enter the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, the word will start spreading rapidly," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    The army plundered the resources of the Great Jin Dynasty, which Zhong Shan entrusted to the Darong Commerce Guild for swift handling.


    The army took secluded routes, advancing rapidly towards the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty. Whenever they rested, Zhong Shan would take the zing wolf general with him, disappearing from the camp.


    Zhong Shan needed to train, and having an Imperial Realm expert as a sparring partner was ideal.


    "Zhu Huo, when I strike, record the data for me," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Zhu Huo immediately nodded.


    Zhong Shan drew hisrge de, ''Nightmare.''


    "Here Ie!" Zhong Shan shouted, channeling all his strength.


    With a mighty sh, a massive de energy shot towards Zhu Huo. A streak of light shed, and the powerful strike was already in front of Zhu Huo.


    Zhu Huo flipped his hand, revealing a small blue shield.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The collision between the de and shield generated a fierce wind, blowing away all the surrounding sand.


    "One hundred thousand jin!" Zhu Huo immediately reported the impact of Zhong Shan''s full-strength strike.


    Zhong Shan looked at the shield and struck again.


    "Boom~~~"


    "Seventy thousand jin!" Zhu Huo said, puzzled. Why had it suddenly weakened so much?


    "Not enough!" Zhong Shan muttered to himself and struck once more.


    "Boom~~~"


    "Sixty-five thousand jin!" Zhu Huo reported again.


    "Not enough!" Zhong Shan continued to mumble.


    "Boom."


    "Sixty thousand jin!" Zhu Huo assessed once more.


    "That''s about right," Zhong Shan murmured.


    Again, Zhong Shan swung his de, and a streak of light shed. Zhu Huo defended as usual, puzzled by the seemingly weakening attacks.


    As the de and shield collided again.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Zhu Huo staggered back seven or eight steps, leaving deep footprints in the ground.


    Zhu Huo looked at Zhong Shan in shock. How could this strike be so powerful?


    "How much?" Zhong Shan asked eagerly.


    "One hundred thirty thousand jin!" Zhu Huo said, frowning at Zhong Shan. Was this really Nascent Soul stage power?


    "That''s it, that''s it!" Zhong Shan muttered, smiling to himself.


    Zhu Huo watched Zhong Shan, confused about what had just happened.


    Zhong Shan was excited. His training n had proven effective. His strongest single strike was only one hundred thousand jin of force, even when using all his strength. But just now, he had achieved one hundred thirty thousand jin. How?


    The strike Zhu Huo had just defended against wasn''t a single full-strength strike but two strikes aimed at the same point in an instant. Thebined force of the two strikes resulted in the enhanced power of one hundred thirty thousand jin.


    Stacking! This was just two strikes. What if he could stack ten strikes in an instant? A hundred strikes?


    The thought made Zhong Shan excited.


    "From today on, I name this technique ''Heaven''s Rule! Heavy Wave!''" Zhong Shan dered with determination.


    Heaven''s Rule! Heavy Wave! Now, it was just a double wave. Zhong Shan could only execute a double wave, increasing its power, but he believed that with persistence, the double wave would be a ten-fold wave, then a hundred-fold, and eventually a thousand-fold wave!


    "Commander? What''s Heaven''s Rule! Heavy Wave?" Zhu Huo asked, confused.


    Zhong Shan smiled at Zhu Huo and said, "Nothing. Thank you for practicing with me all this time. From now on, I can train by myself."


    "Yes!" Zhu Huo nodded, still a bit puzzled.


    From then on, Zhong Shan practiced the Heavy Wave technique, aiming to turn the double wave into a triple wave. It was a matter of perseverance and hard work.


    After five more months of training, Zhong Shan achieved ''Heaven''s Rule! Triple Wave!''


    "Commander, once we pass this mountain, we''ll officially enter the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty''s territory," Shui Wuhen said, pointing to the distantndscape.


    "We''re there? Perfect timing. In a few days, the news about the ''Elixir of Immortality'' will spread throughout the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty," Zhong Shan said, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

 Chapter 425: Marquis Shao Fei

    <h4>Chapter 425: Marquis Shao Fei</h4>


    In the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty''s capital, Li Huo Holy Capital, inside a tavern:


    "This is a ten-thousand-year-old Polygonum multiflorum. You won''t find another like it in all of Li Huo Holy Capital," a boastful man dered, disying arge piece of the root.


    "Ten thousand years? Only ten thousand? Haha!"


    "Why are youughing?"


    "Ten thousand years? The tenrgest auction houses in Li Huo Holy Capital each have treasures over twenty thousand years old. Not to mention the various noble families and even the royal family," someoneughed.


    "That''s right, a ten-thousand-year-old Polygonum multiflorum? The emperor has a Millennium Tree that blooms once every thousand years and bears fruit once every thousand years, with five fruits each time. Your Polygonum multiflorum? Even a hundred ten-thousand-year-old ones can''tpare to a single Millennium Fruit," someone else jeered.


    "Hmph, rarity determines value. If this were thest ten-thousand-year-old Polygonum multiflorum in the world, it would be priceless," the man stubbornly replied.


    "Yes, rarity determines value, but your item isn''t rare. The Millennium Fruit is the rare one. Haha."


    "That''s not true!" At this moment, a man in the corner shook his head, holding a cup of wine.


    "Uh?" The crowd turned to look at him curiously.


    "The rarest item isn''t the Millennium Fruit. No matter how powerful the Millennium Fruit is, there are substitutes for it. It can be reced in quality and quantity, and it still has a price," the man in the corner said, shaking his head.


    "Oh? Are you saying there''s something in this world that can''t be reced?"


    "It''s not a heavenly treasure, but a type of elixir, unique in the world, something everyone dreams of. A priceless treasure!" the man exined.


    "What kind of elixir?" The crowd''s interest was piqued, and they all stared at the man in the corner.


    "The Elixir of Immortality!" the man dered.


    "The Elixir of Immortality? Hahaha, are you crazy? There''s no such thing as an Elixir of Immortality in this world!"


    "Impossible! If there were, why would anyone bother cultivating?"


    The crowd shook their heads, looking at the man in the corner as if he were a fool.


    "No, there is an Elixir of Immortality. And it won''t be long before it arrives in Li Huo Holy Capital," the man insisted.


    Despite their disbelief, the fantastical nature of the im made everyone curious.


    "Are you saying it wille to Li Huo Holy Capital?"


    "Yes, do any of you know of ''Zhong Shan''?" the man in the corner asked.


    "Zhong Shan? The Heaven Copse n? The Eastern Duke of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty?" one well-informed person quickly responded.


    When he mentioned Zhong Shan, the crowd nodded in recognition. The Heaven Copse n, which had toppled a powerful imperial dynasty in less than four years, was well-known among those who pursued fame and fortune.


    "I''ve heard that Zhong Shan is currently on a diplomatic mission to the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty and will arrive in Li Huo Holy Capital soon," the man in the corner continued.


    "What does that have to do with the Elixir of Immortality?"


    "The Elixir of Immortality is in his possession!" the man said firmly.


    The crowd exchanged nces. Though they didn''t believe in an Elixir of Immortality, the man in the corner''s confident assertion made them pay attention.


    Could there really be an Elixir of Immortality in this world?


    "The Divine Land is full of heavenly treasures. How much do you know about them? The Millennium Fruit, the Li Huo Pill, the Deep Sea Immortal Herb, each with different effects. How do you know there isn''t an Elixir of Immortality? If heavenly dynasties have heavenly treasures, why can''t an imperial dynasty? It''s rumored that Zhong Shan obtained the Elixir of Immortality in a ce called the ''Great Jin Dynasty.'' Smelling it extends life by thirty years, consuming it grants immortality," the man in the corner said with great emotion.


    "You must be kidding. If there really was such an amazing thing, wouldn''t Zhong Shan have already consumed it? Why would it still be in his possession?"


    "Exactly, the Elixir of Immortality��if it truly existed, who would hold on to it? Who wouldn''t just consume it immediately?"


    The crowd began to expose the corner man''s lies.


    "No, there''s a reason he hasn''t taken it. Rumor has it that he ns to use the Elixir of Immortality to trade for something with the emperor," the man in the corner exined.


    "Trade for something? What?" the crowd inquired.


    "I''m not sure, but it''s said that whatever he wants in exchange is more important to him than immortality itself. So he''s willing to keep the Elixir of Immortality and bring it to Li Huo Holy Capital to negotiate with the emperor," the man said.


    "I''ve heard something simr!" another man in white sitting in a different corner suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh?" The crowd turned to look at the man in white.


    "I didn''t hear about the Elixir of Immortality, but I did hear that in the Great Jin Dynasty''s Wu City, countless sect experts, including those from the Longevity Realm, gathered to fight against an evil force for some item," the man in white said.


    "Countless Longevity Realm experts? You don''t mean some minor minions, do you?"


    "Minor minions? Do you know the Marquis Xiaoyao?" The man in white looked at the previous speaker with disdain.


    "Of course I know the Marquis Xiaoyao. Who doesn''t?"


    "Well, the Marquis Xiaoyao participated in that event. He, a Consolidation Stage expert, brought twenty-nine Imperial Realm guards and still had to flee in panic. Infinite experts converged on Wu City, and for what? The battle was so fierce it darkened the sky and drenched the city in blood. The imperial dynasty was torn apart, countless experts died, and not a single imperial guard survived. It was brutal," the man in white recounted.


    Hearing this, the crowd was shocked. Twenty-nine Imperial Realm experts fleeing in panic? That was indeed a significant mobilization by the Longevity Realm.


    Such a massivemotion must have been for something extraordinary. The Elixir of Immortality? The thought suddenly illuminated their minds.


    Could it really be the Elixir of Immortality?


    "Then how did it end up in Zhong Shan''s hands?"


    "Yes, if the Longevity Realm sent so many experts, did they fail?"


    "I don''t know the details, but it seems the final victor was amander named Zhong. That''s all I know. If what our friend here said is true, then what they were fighting over might indeed be..." The man in white trailed off, his eyes filled with astonishment.


    "The Elixir of Immortality?" a few people asked excitedly.


    After he finished speaking, the tavern fell into silence. The Elixir of Immortality��could it really exist? Most people didn''t believe it, but a few began to entertain the possibility. The idea of immortality spread through their minds like wildfire, making them increasingly convinced.


    In just three days, the entire Li Huo Holy Capital was enveloped in a strange atmosphere.


    The rumor of the Elixir of Immortality spread like wildfire. Although most people didn''t believe in its existence, they were still hopeful. Meanwhile, a minority had already started to believe, their hearts filled with longing for the Elixir.


    Immortality��who wouldn''t want it?


    Li Huo Holy Capital was just the first stop. The news radiated outwards, spreading to other cities. It seemed almost coordinated, as those carrying the news found that the rumors had already reached their destinations.


    The Elixir of Immortality, the greatest divine medicine of all time!


    As the rumors spread, countless experts were eager to act. Some traced Zhong Shan''s route, while others rushed towards Li Huo Holy Capital.


    At the border of the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, Zhong Shan led his army deeper into the territory.


    "Commander, in just a few days, we''ll reach a city in the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty. At that point, we can request the local garrison to escort us," Shui Wuhen said with a smile.


    "Escort?" Zhong Shan looked at Shui Wuhen with a hint of surprise. Shui Wuhen''s wisdom had noticeably improvedtely.


    As they spoke, a streak of light shed in the distance. About three hundred people were flying towards them.


    With a wave of Zhong Shan''s hand, the entire army came to a halt.


    The group of three hundred paused momentarily before flying swiftly to Zhong Shan''s army.


    This group wore the official uniforms of the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty. The leader, dressed in luxurious garments, looked like a significant official. His hair was tied back with a purple-gold cord, giving him a carefree appearance.


    The leader looked at Zhong Shan''s army and squinted slightly, "Who are you?"


    "We are envoys from the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty," Shui Wuhen promptly replied.


    "Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty? Do you have credentials?" the official asked with mild suspicion.


    Shui Wuhen quickly prepared to show the diplomatic credentials.


    However, Zhong Shan grabbed Shui Wuhen''s right hand, signaling him to wait.


    "Who are you?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Surprised, the young official turned his hand, revealing his official seal.


    "I am Marquis Shao Fei of the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty," the official dered.


    "Marquis!" one of his subordinates urged impatiently, as if pressed for time.


    Marquis Shao Fei ignored the urging and looked at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan was slightly surprised by how readily the official showed his seal.


    Shui Wuhen examined the seal and nodded to Zhong Shan, confirming its authenticity.


    At Zhong Shan''s signal, Shui Wuhen handed over the diplomatic credentials to Marquis Shao Fei.


    Marquis Shao Fei carefully inspected the credentials.


    "Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, Duke of the East, Zhong Shan?" Shao Fei remarked with mild surprise.


    "That is indeed me," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "My apologies, I have long heard of a peerless hero from the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty. I am delighted to meet you today. The emperor specifically assigned me to guard this area, and it is a pleasure to escort such distinguished envoys," Shao Fei said with a smile.


    "Thank you for your efforts," Zhong Shan nodded, though internally he was filled with curiosity. No one knew their exact route; how could this be such a coincidence?


    "Before we proceed, I must ask Duke Zhong to wait briefly. I am here to capture a group of rebels," Shao Fei exined.


    "Rebels?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "Yes, we have about half an hour. I request that your army retreat a hundred miles to avoid rming the rebels," Shao Fei said sincerely.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded. With a wave of his hand, Shui Wuhen immediatelymanded the army to retreat.


    (Continued in the next chapter)

 Chapter 426: Demonic Calculation Ability

    <h4>Chapter 426: Demonic Calction Ability</h4>


    Zhong Shan didn''t offer any help; he simply ordered his army to retreat. Since they hadn''t asked for assistance, there was no need to show off.


    As the army withdrew, Zhong Shan, Lin Xiao, Mr. Corpse, and Zhu Huo remained to watch.


    Marquis Shao Fei led his three hundred men to surround arge valley, instructing them toy in ambush. After giving some instructions, he took out a longbow and a series of powerful arrows. He shot one arrow straight into the sky, disappearing from sight, then moved to different positions and shot nearly twenty more arrows into the sky before putting away the bow and standing alone on a mountaintop, waiting.


    "Commander, what is he doing?" Zhu Huo asked, puzzled.


    Zhong Shan, Lin Xiao, and Mr. Corpse, however, had serious expressions in their eyes.


    After a short while, five figures appeared in the sky, flying towards them.


    Seeing Shao Fei, the five figures paused.


    "Marquis Shao Fei? How did you know we were here?" the leader of the five asked in surprise.


    "What do you think?" Shao Fei replied with a sinister smile.


    "Impossible! No one knew our route except us five. Is there a traitor among us?" one of them eximed, looking at the others suspiciously.


    "Old Three, why are you looking at me? How could I be a traitor?"


    "Old Four, what kind of look is that? Do you think I''m the kind of person to betray us?"


    The group of five immediately showed signs of discord.


    "Shut up!" the leader barked.


    At hismand, the other four fell silent.


    "It wasn''t a traitor. We had nned our route together, butter on, we made changes that only the five of us knew about," the leader said.


    The four nodded in agreement, realizing that their changes had been kept secret.


    The leader''s eyes turned cold as he looked at Shao Fei.


    "Marquis Shao Fei, you can''t stop us. If you do us this favor today, we will repay you generously in the future," the leader offered.


    "Sorry, but this is my duty. You can eithere with me willingly, or I will take you back by force. Of course, if I make a move, I can''t guarantee that some of you won''t die," Shao Fei said with a smile, shifting his stance slightly.


    As Shao Fei moved, the five also adjusted their positions in response.


    "Big brother, Shao Fei is only at the peak of the Consolidation Stage, just like us. I don''t believe we can''t handle him with the five of us," one of the men said fiercely.


    "No, we split up and run!" the leader immediatelymanded, clearly wary of Shao Fei.


    "Go!" The five of them scattered in different directions like petals.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Suddenly, the five men were horrified as they flew back together, regrouping in their original spot.


    From his vantage point, Zhu Huo could clearly see that as the five fled in different directions, five of the powerful arrows Shao Fei had shot earlier descended from the sky. Each arrow narrowly missed the fleeing men, falling right in front of their noses.


    It was too uncanny. How did Shao Fei know the exact directions they would choose to escape? The precision was terrifying, the arrowsnding just close enough to frighten the five into retreat.


    The force of the arrows was something the five could withstand, but the sudden appearance of an arrow right before their noses was enough to make anyone break out in a cold sweat and feel their soul tremble.


    The five looked at the sky in confusion and fear, knowing that the arrows had fallen vertically right in front of them. It was terrifying.


    Everyone watched in astonishment as Marquis Shao Fei moved, his actions now synonymous with a sense of eerie unpredictability.


    Marquis Shao Fei continued to move, hovering silently in the air.


    "Commander, how could it be so precise?" Zhu Huo asked, bewildered.


    "Didn''t you see how Shao Fei changed his position? He manipted their thoughts single-handedly. Incredible," Lin Xiao remarked in awe.


    "Manipted?" Zhu Huo asked, intrigued.


    "Yes, seeing Shao Fei, those five men instinctively felt a sense of fear. When Shao Fei changed his position, they subconsciously ruled out certain escape routes as unsafe. The directions they perceived as safe were precisely the ones Shao Fei had prepared for," Lin Xiao exined solemnly.


    "This..." Zhu Huo swallowed hard. Could such a person really exist with such demonic intelligence?


    "The Divine Land is full of extraordinary people," Zhong Shanmented, his eyes shining with insight.


    The five men kept their eyes on Shao Fei. The initial panic slowly dissipated, and the leader suddenly said, "Let''s go again."


    Marquis Shao Fei''s lips curled into a sinister smile.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Four more arrows forced four men back.


    Cold sweat covered the four men as the arrows once againnded just in front of their noses. This was too uncanny. What was happening?


    While the four were forced back, one man managed to escape towards a distant valley, disappearing in a sh. Did he get away?


    Marquis Shao Fei immediately moved towards that direction. The remaining four didn''t waste time and fled again.


    Two of them ran towards the valley where the fifth man had disappeared and quickly vanished from sight. Only two remained, forced back again by fear.


    "Leader!" one man cried out in terror.


    "Don''t run anymore. Let''s kill Shao Fei together!" the leadermanded fiercely.


    "Alright!" the other agreed, equally determined.


    "Attack!" the leader roared. One man charged madly at Shao Fei while the leader turned and ran towards the distant valley.


    From a nearby peak, Zhu Huo was filled with astonishment. This was too eerie.


    "Trapped like turtles in a jar. Those four ran straight into the ambush of those three hundred men?" Zhu Huo asked incredulously.


    The man who charged at Shao Fei soon realized his mistake. Seeing the leader flee, his heart sank. In his panic, more than a dozen arrows rained down from the sky.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    While frantically dodging the arrows, Shao Fei''s palm struck his chest, sending him flying towards the valley.


    "Thud~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Spitting blood, the man wasn''t angry but excited. He had been hit towards the valley?


    Excited, he quickly rushed into the valley.


    Seeing thest man flying towards the valley in panic, Zhu Huo couldn''t help but feel a sense of pity for him.


    "Commander, how is this possible? His calctions are demonic. This is..." Zhu Huo asked in disbelief.


    "If you understand those people''s habits, you can do it too. It requires a fine grasp of the battlefield, manipting the battlefield, controlling the entire situation, and influencing the thoughts of five people. It''s rare, indeed. To think the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty has such a person," Zhong Shan sighed.


    "Marquis Shao Fei? Your Majesty, how intelligent do you think this Marquis Shao Fei is?" Lin Xiao asked in admiration.


    "Looking at Lin Xiao, Zhong Shan said, ''It''s hard to say about intelligence, but his calctive ability is not inferior to yours.''


    ''Hmm,'' Lin Xiao frowned but nodded in agreement.


    In the distance, after dealing with the five men, Shao Fei quickly flew over.


    ''Thank you for waiting, Duke Zhong,'' Shao Fei said with a smile.


    ''Marquis Shao Fei, your calctions are truly impressive,'' Zhong Shanplimented.


    ''Duke Zhong, you tter me. My calctions are minor, only covering a small area and involving only myself. Your Heaven Copse n, however, brought down an entire imperial dynasty. The precision of the four-stage copse was beyond extraordinary. I studied it thoroughly and couldn''t find any extraneous maneuvers. Every step was meticulously nned. During that period, every moment was calcted perfectly. Before the n was even executed, everything had been ounted for. You are the one I admire,'' Shao Fei replied courteously.


    ''Marquis Shao, you''re too modest. There''s no need for us to continue with the pleasantries. We should get moving, or we might not reach Li Huo Holy Capital in time,'' Zhong Shan said.


    ''Oh?'' Shao Fei was slightly puzzled.


    ''In a few days, you''ll understand,'' Zhong Shan shook his head, not providing further exnation.


    A monthter, when Shao Fei led Zhong Shan''s army to a city, they were greeted by the entire popce. Shao Fei was taken aback. What was going on? Why were these people behaving so strangely, as if they were possessed?


    After sending someone to investigate, Shao Fei was stunned for a long time before breaking into a bitter smile.


    ''Duke Zhong, you''ve caused me quite a bit of trouble,'' Shao Fei said with a wry smile.


    ''That''s why we need to hurry. Once we reach Li Huo Holy Capital, everything will be fine,'' Zhong Shan said.


    ''True. Let''s keep moving and avoid entering the city. I''ll handle any pursuers, and you lead the army along the nned route,'' Shao Fei said.


    ''Much appreciated,'' Zhong Shan smiled.


    Zhong Shan led the army forward, while Shao Fei had a tough time dealing with numerous pursuers along the way.


    The Elixir of Immortality? Damn, who spread such a ridiculous rumor? This is causing me endless trouble, Shao Fei thought.


    Two monthster, Shao Fei, with his extraordinary intelligence, finally managed to shake off all the pursuers.


    Everyone who was driven back returned with the ''most convincing'' information.


    In a tavern in a certain city.


    A burly man who had just been repelled grabbed a bowl of wine and drank it down.


    ''Wu Laoliu, did you see the Elixir of Immortality?'' a crowd gathered around the ''informed person.''


    ''Damn, I barely made it back. No wonder Zhong Shan''s army was able to defeat countless experts in the Great Jin Dynasty and seize the Elixir of Immortality,'' Wu Laoliu said, drinking more wine to calm his nerves.


    ''It''s real? What does it look like?''


    ''The Longevity Realm couldn''t take it from him, and we think we can? Not only is Zhong Shan''s army involved, but the emperor also sent the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty''s troops to escort it. That shows how precious it is. Eight hundred thousand soldiers! The emperor sent eight hundred thousand soldiers to escort it,'' Wu Laoliu said, his tongue stumbling.


    ''Eight hundred thousand? You''re exaggerating. Last time, when we tried to enter the city, Zhong Shan''s army had eighty thousand soldiers, and the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty had at most thirty thousand. How could there be eight hundred thousand?''


    ''Hah! Thirty thousand? Are you out of your mind? There were at least forty thousand pursuers that I saw, and many more I didn''t. So many people, all driven back by the escort troops. You think it was only thirty thousand? They weren''t there to fight; they were sneaking around in secret. Saying eight hundred thousand is an understatement,'' Wu Laoliu retorted.


    ''Did you feel anything?''


    ''Yes, it must be the Elixir of Immortality. Even from a distance, I could smell a strange fragrance. I''m sure my lifespan has increased,'' Wu Laoliu boasted.


    Whether people believed it or not, the rumor of the Elixir of Immortality in Zhong Shan''s possession grewrger and more sensational, stirring the hearts of everyone who heard it.


    ''Marquis Shao Fei is indeed impressive. With thirty thousand soldiers, he managed to drive away all the pursuers. Zhong Shan is in awe,'' Zhong Shan said to the dust-covered Shao Fei, who had just caught up.

 Chapter 427: Arrival at Li Huo Holy Capital

    <h4>Chapter 427: Arrival at Li Huo Holy Capital</h4>


    "Marquis Shao Fei, you are truly impressive. You managed to fend off all the pursuers with just thirty thousand soldiers. I am in awe," Zhong Shan said with a smile to the dust-covered Shao Fei, who had just caught up.


    Shao Fei gave a bitter smile. "Duke Zhong, could it be that you were the one who spread the rumor?"


    "What rumor?" Zhong Shan feigned ignorance.


    "The Elixir of Immortality!" Shao Fei said.


    Looking at Shao Fei, Zhong Shan smiled faintly. "What do you think?"


    Shao Fei stared at Zhong Shan, a hint of uncertainty shing in his eyes.


    "Could I see this Elixir of Immortality?" Shao Fei cautiously asked.


    "Do you believe in the Elixir of Immortality? If such a thing existed, Marquis, you wouldn''t be dealing with small fry; you''d be facing the rulers of the four Holy Lands and the three great Heavenly Dynasties," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Taking a deep breath, Shao Fei nodded. "So, what kind of treasure did Duke Zhong obtain?"


    "There are too many eyes here. When we reach Li Huo Holy Capital, there will be a time for you to see," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    Shao Fei, catching Zhong Shan''s implication, realized that even though he had driven away many pursuers, there might still be those hidden in the shadows whom he couldn''t detect. If there were such individuals, their cultivation must be terrifyingly high.


    Nodding, Shao Fei decided not to ask further. The priority now was to safely escort Zhong Shan''s army to Li Huo Holy Capital.


    "Marquis Shao Fei, may I ask you something?" Zhong Shan said.


    "Please, Duke Zhong, ask away. I will answer to the best of my ability," Shao Fei replied.


    "In the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, have you heard of Marquis Xiaoyao?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Marquis Xiaoyao?" Shao Fei''s pupils constricted.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Why do you ask about him, Duke Zhong?" Shao Fei asked.


    "It''s nothing much. I beat him up in the Great Jin Dynasty, and as we''re about to enter Li Huo Holy Capital, I wanted to know more about his identity," Zhong Shan said.


    "Beat him up? How?" Shao Fei asked, filled with astonishment.


    "He insulted a friend of mine, so I made him kneel and apologize in front of my friend," Zhong Shan said.


    "Kneel? Apologize?" Shao Fei looked at Zhong Shan in shock, speechless for a long moment.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked, his expression serious.


    "How much do you know about Marquis Xiaoyao?" Shao Fei swallowed, clearly shaken by Zhong Shan''s bold actions.


    "I had someone investigate. Marquis Xiaoyao, Nie Kuang, is the sixth-generation great-grandson of the Da Li Emperor. He''s highly favored and influential within the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty. I don''t know why," Zhong Shan said.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Shao Fei swallowed again and shook his head with a strange expression. "Duke Zhong, your visit to the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty is sure to be very eventful."


    "Oh?"


    "Marquis Xiaoyao, Nie Kuang, isn''t just highly favored. Most people don''t know this, but I''ve heard some things. The emperor''s affection for him isparable to that for the six crown princes. Do you know why?" Shao Fei asked.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Before the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty was established, the emperor''s parents died, leaving only an older brother to raise him. Later, the emperor''s brother sacrificed his life in battle to protect the young emperor," Shao Fei exined.


    Zhong Shan''s mouth opened slightly in surprise.


    "Nie Kuang''s previous life was the emperor''s brother!" Shao Fei revealed.


    "Huh?" Everyone was taken aback, their gazes all turning to Zhong Shan.


    Nie Kuang? This background was terrifying!


    While the others were shocked, Zhong Shan''s expression turned solemn, his eyes filled with determination. Nie Kuang might be the emperor''s brother reincarnated, but for Bei Qingsi, he would do it all over again if necessary.


    The army continued its journey, and after another three months, they were finally approaching Li Huo Holy Capital.


    "Duke Zhong, there''s one more day''s journey left. Let''s let the army rest here for now. I have some business to attend to," Shao Fei suggested.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The army halted, and Shao Fei flew towards a nearby valley. He returned shortly, carrying a seven- or eight-year-old girl, his expression dark and somber.


    Everyone was slightly taken aback. How did he manage toe back with a little girl after such a short time?


    The little girl was very cute and didn''t seem afraid of strangers. Her big eyes blinked as she looked at everyone.


    Shao Fei, seeing everyone''s curiosity,nded and exined, "This is my daughter."


    "Father, who are these people?" the little girl asked Shao Fei.


    Everyone looked at Shao Fei with a peculiar expression.


    "Marquis Shao Fei, you''ve settled down and even have a daughter. Congrattions!" Zhong Shan sincerely congratted him.


    "Thank you, Duke Zhong," Shao Fei replied, shaking his head with a sigh and a smile.


    "Father, why did it take you so long toe get me? I''ve been waiting forever," the little girl scolded Shao Fei in a very mature manner.


    Shao Fei gave a wry smile, shaking his head apologetically towards everyone.


    "Where is your mother?" Shao Fei asked.


    "Mother left a month ago. I thought you''de soon, but I''ve been waiting for so long. Really!" the girlined.


    "What have you been eating?" Shao Fei frowned.


    "I''ve been cooking for myself! I haven''t even made lunch yet," the girl said.


    Looking at his daughter, Shao Fei''s expression fluctuated between relief and concern.


    "Father will have someone make you the best food," Shao Fei said immediately.


    "Great, I''m starving. Unlike you, Father, I can''t go without food. Hurry up!" the girl smiled happily.


    Shao Fei quickly arranged for a few subordinates to take the girl to get some food.


    "Her name is Bing Bing," Shao Fei introduced with a smile.


    "Didn''t her mother take care of her?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "I don''t have a wife," Shao Fei replied, shaking his head.


    "Uh, what about her mother?" Zhong Shan asked, still confused.


    "My former wife. Unfortunately, our rtionship broke down," Shao Fei said with a bitter smile.


    Shao Fei spoke openly, and Zhong Shan tactfully refrained from asking further. A broken rtionship? In modern terms, it seemed they had divorced. Asking more would be inappropriate.


    After resting for a while, the army resumed their march towards Li Huo Holy Capital.


    Even from a distance, it was clear that countless people hade out to wee them. No, it seemed they were waiting for them.


    Someone had apparently spread the news inside Li Huo Holy Capital.


    "Zhong Shan is here!"


    With a loud shout, the people on several streets in Li Huo Holy Capital suddenly froze as if under a spell, their expressions turning extremelyplex.


    Zhong Shan is here! Has the Elixir of Immortality arrived as well?


    The news spread like wildfire, quickly reaching every corner of Li Huo Holy Capital. In no time, nearly half the city''s poption seemed frozen in ce, overwhelmed by the news.


    The tantalizing prospect of the Elixir of Immortality!


    Months ago, when the rumor of the Elixir of Immortality first emerged, countless people from various cities had flocked to Li Huo Holy Capital. The influx of people swelled the city''s original poption of fifty million, making it feel overcrowded.


    Now, Li Huo Holy Capital, both inside and out, housed over a hundred million people, most eager to catch a glimpse of the Elixir of Immortality. If they could get their hands on it, all the better.


    The entire city seethed with activity, not hidden currents but openly visible waves of excitement and tension.


    As news of Zhong Shan''s arrival spread, a massive crowd surged towards the city''s outskirts, where Zhong Shan''s envoy was approaching. The ck mass of people rushing out made the city feel momentarily emptier.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan''s army could see Li Huo Holy Capital.


    The grand city stood like an ancient holy capital, its skies filled with auspicious clouds and radiant light. The sea of clouds depicted countless officials and dignitaries, exuding an aura of supreme power and majesty.


    As Zhong Shan marveled at the grandeur of the heavenly dynasty, a ck swarm resembling a gue of locusts appeared in the distance, flying towards them.


    "Form ranks!" Marquis Shao Feimanded loudly.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" The army immediately assumed a defensive stance.


    The approaching figures, moving at incredible speed, arrived on flying swords, clouds, or riding the wind, eager to reach Zhong Shan''s envoy. However, as they neared, hesitation set in.


    Although tens of thousands of individuals had rushed over, each group consisted of only a few people. Confronted with the organized and formidable sight of a million-strong army, their boldness waned.


    "Who among you is Zhong Shan?" one of the neers shouted.


    From within the army, Zhong Shan observed coldly, ignoring the question. They were mere nuisances.


    "I''ve seen his portrait. It''s him!" someone suddenly pointed at Zhong Shan.


    That single point seemed to spark a divine realization. Every strong figure''s gaze instantly locked onto Zhong Shan, filled with a fervent desire that made Zhong Shan feel like the Tang Monk, surrounded by demons craving his flesh.


    "Archers, nock your arrows!" Shui Wuhenmanded.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Countless powerful arrows were drawn, creating an atmosphere of lethal intent that permeated the area.


    Though the neers numbered only around ten thousand, they were faced with hundreds of thousands of arrows, causing many to recoil.


    But more and more people were arriving from afar, adding to the swelling crowd. Shao Fei''s expression grew increasingly peculiar.


    "Father, are these people here to wee us? There are so many!" Shao Fei''s daughter, Bing Bing, eximed in wonder.


    "Wee?" Shao Fei''s eyes were filled with irony.


    Meanwhile, from another direction, arge contingent of soldiers arrived.


    "By the emperor''smand, we wee the envoys from the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty. We await Marquis Shao Fei''s orders to escort the envoys to the ''Nanming Tribute Pce''!" the leading general announced.


    "Duke Zhong, please," Shao Fei said, epting the order and extending another invitation to Zhong Shan.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan nodded with a smile.


    With that, Zhong Shan''s army, escorted by Shao Fei and his forces, continued towards the ancient holy capital. Those with lower cultivation, who hade to watch, dared not approach. They could only stand on either side, watching Zhong Shan with hungry eyes, reminiscent of demons eyeing the flesh of the Tang Monk.


    All along the route, Shao Fei couldn''t help but marvel at the sheer scale of the spectacle. The grand reception was indeed overwhelming.


    (Continued in the next chapter)

 Chapter 428: Nie Fancheng

    <h4>Chapter 428: Nie Fancheng</h4>


    Zhong Shan''s army entered Li Huo Holy Capital, causing what was perhaps the most sensational event in the history of the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty.


    The streets were empty, as millions gathered to witness Zhong Shan''s army. The noise andmotion were unprecedented, and no one had ever received such a grand reception. Of course, the motivations behind this reception were far from pure.


    The belief in the Elixir of Immortality wasn''t widespread in the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, but those who came to the capital believed in it. This meant that at least fifty million visitors in Li Huo Holy Capital believed in the Elixir. Human belief is contagious; once a majority believes, the skeptics start to believe as well.


    Thus, Zhong Shan became a focal point, gathering the hopes and desires of countless people in Li Huo Holy Capital.


    Throughout the journey, many attempted to act, but under the meticulous calctions of Shao Fei, each attempt was thwarted.


    Finally, they arrived at the so-called Nanming Tribute Pce.


    The Nanming Tribute Pce was uniquely constructed, resembling a massive ming lotus on the outside, with an interior shrouded in red light. It was enormous and adjacent to the imperial pce.


    "Duke Zhong, please," Shao Fei invited.


    Zhong Shan entered the pce, finding it spacious,rger than his own Eastern Duke''s residence in the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty.


    "Duke Zhong, you may rest here while awaiting an audience with the emperor. As for security, rest assured, the Nanming Tribute Pce is one of the most fortified ces in Li Huo Holy Capital. Only those of the Emperor Extreme realm could even attempt to breach it, and even they would find it challenging," Shao Fei said with a smile.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan replied.


    Shao Fei then took his leave.


    "Shui Wuhen, arrange for the troops to rest!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen immediatelyplied.


    Zhong Shan, apanied by Mr. Corpse and others, ascended to the floating ind.


    "Your Majesty, there are millions outside watching us. You haven''t even proven the Elixir of Immortality is real, and already so many people are hopeful. If you ''prove'' its existence, won''t these people go mad?" Lin Xiao marveled.


    Zhong Shan smiled, clearly pleased with the results.


    "Your Majesty, do you still intend to ''prove'' it?" Lin Xiao asked again.


    "Of course! Otherwise, how can its value be realized?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Prove it? Have you thought about the consequences? How will you deal with the aftermath?" Mr. Corpse asked with concern.


    "Aftermath? Haha! It must be proven. There are still too few people in Li Huo Holy Capital!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "Too few?" This was too crazy. Even Mr. Corpse, who had witnessed countless grand events, felt uneasy about Zhong Shan''s bold n.


    In the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, in a pce within Li Huo Holy Capital:


    Tian Ling''er stood with a small red sparrow perched on her shoulder, looking at Nie Qingqing.


    "Auntie, Little Auntie, Sister, please tell me what''s going on. Why is Li Huo Holy Capital so lively today? Take me to see!" Tian Ling''er shook Nie Qingqing''s arm.


    Tian Ling''er, having been granted the title of Ling''er Princess, was supposed to address Nie Qingqing, who was also a princess, as her equal by heavenlyw. However, due to their close rtionship, Tian Ling''er used three different titles for Nie Qingqing.


    Nie Qingqing looked troubled, unable to respond to Tian Ling''er.


    Zhong Shan? It was indeed Zhong Shan. After having someone retrieve the portrait of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty envoy, it turned out to be that Zhong Shan! Nascent Soul Stage Six? How could it be? That pitiful root bone, so extremelycking in talent, had reached Nascent Soul Stage Six in just a few decades?


    Back then, she had vehemently opposed his rtionship with Tian Ling''er and had made Zhong Shan swear an impossible oath��that he would only be allowed to see Tian Ling''er again once he reached the Nascent Soul stage.


    He had done it? How could he have done it?


    Nie Qingqing looked at Tian Ling''er with a mix of love and frustration.


    "Auntie, Little Auntie, Sister! Just tell me!" Tian Ling''er pleaded.


    Taking a deep breath, Nie Qingqing sighed bitterly, "Ling''er, just call me Sister."


    "Really call you Sister? Wouldn''t that make you seem too young?" Tian Ling''er pondered aloud.


    Hearing this, Nie Qingqing nearly lost her temper. "Just call me Sister!"


    Women are very sensitive about their age.


    "Alright, alright. So, Sister, can you tell me now?" Tian Ling''er shook Nie Qingqing''s arm again.


    "Someone hase to Li Huo Holy Capital," Nie Qingqing said, taking a deep breath.


    "Who? Why is it so lively?" Tian Ling''er asked.


    "Zhong Shan," Nie Qingqing replied, watching Tian Ling''er closely.


    "Zhong Shan? Who is Zhong Shan?" Tian Ling''er asked, puzzled.


    "Do you really not remember?" Nie Qingqing pressed.


    "Should I know him?" Tian Ling''er asked, still confused.


    Nie Qingqing studied Tian Ling''er for a moment, aplex expression crossing her face. "He wille here in a few days."


    "Huh? Come here? Is he your friend?" Tian Ling''er asked curiously.


    Giving Tian Ling''er a strange look, Nie Qingqing shook her head and sighed, "You''ll see him in a few days."


    In the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, at the residence of Marquis Xiaoyao:


    Marquis Xiaoyao, the same Nie Kuang who had been humiliated by Zhong Shan and forced to kneel before Bei Qingsi, was sitting in a pce, looking at a kneeling man before him.


    "Is it really Zhong Shan?" Marquis Xiaoyao''s face twisted with cold fury.


    "Yes, Marquis. Without a doubt, this is his image," the kneeling man said, producing a memory crystal.


    Marquis Xiaoyao grabbed the crystal and examined it closely. The more he looked, the more furious he became.


    "Hahaha, he''s delivering himself to death. Duke Zhong? Zhong Shan? The Elixir of Immortality? Hmph, the humiliation I suffered will be repaid a hundred, no, a thousandfold," Marquis Xiaoyaoughed maniacally.


    He mmed his palm on the table before him.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The massive jade table shattered into pieces, disying the full extent of Marquis Xiaoyao''s rage.


    Outside the Nanming Tribute Pce, despite the presence of guards, arge crowd had gathered. The ck mass of people was intimidating, but no one dared to rush in. Such was the majesty of a heavenly dynasty; under the might of the emperor, none dared to act recklessly.


    While outsiders hoped for the Elixir of Immortality, Zhong Shan, the supposed possessor of the elixir, was no longer in the pce. He had been invited to the imperial pce by a powerful old eunuch.


    Zhong Shan had been conversing with several people when the old eunuch, dressed in purple, suddenly appeared out of thin air, holding a horsetail whisk and bowing respectfully to Zhong Shan.


    "By the emperor''s decree, I invite Duke Zhong to enter the pce," the eunuch said.


    The surrounding people frowned slightly. The eunuch''s arrival had been so quiet and sudden.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded.


    With a step, the old eunuch took Zhong Shan away, and in just a moment, they arrived at the imperial pce.


    The grand hall of the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty was built over a sun spring, with moltenva flowing beneath. A gigantic floating ind in the shape of a ming lotus connected to a staircase leading to the edge of theva pit. The other end of the staircase connected to the ind.


    The old eunuch led Zhong Shan directly to the floating ind.


    Li Huo Sacred Pce


    The massive pce on the floating ind was reminiscent of the Taigu Sacred Pce in the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, exuding an aura of boundless majesty.


    "Enter. The emperor is waiting inside," the old eunuch said.


    "Alright."


    Zhong Shan stepped into the Li Huo Sacred Pce. Upon entering, his heart tightened. The floor inside the pce was transparent, giving the illusion of walking on air with a direct view of the rolling magma below, seemingly bottomless. Yet, the solid feeling underfoot assured Zhong Shan that there was indeed a floor, even if it was invisible.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The massive doors of the pce closed behind him with a thunderous sound. Much like his solitary audience with Gu Shentong in the past, Zhong Shan found himself alone in the Li Huo Sacred Pce with only one figure seated high above.


    The Da Li Emperor, Nie Fancheng, sat on his throne, wearing a red jade t-topped crown and a white silk cloud robe. His youthful appearance wasplemented by a pair of neatly trimmed mustaches, enhancing his masculine aura. His eyes radiated a soul-piercing intensity, exuding supreme authority as if he were the master of this world.


    "Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, Assistant Minister of Rites, Duke of the East, Zhong Shan, pays respects to the Da Li Emperor," Zhong Shan saluted.


    "Duke Zhong? The Elixir of Immortality? Hmph, do you know why I summoned you alone?" Nie Fancheng''s voice was full of authority.


    Why? Zhong Shan knew well enough��it was all about the Elixir of Immortality.


    "I do not know. However, I did wish for a private audience with Your Majesty to present something from my emperor," Zhong Shan replied promptly.


    "Oh?" Nie Fancheng raised an eyebrow in curiosity.


    With a swift movement, Zhong Shan produced the items given to him by Gu Shentong��a jade slip sealed with a restriction and an ordinary bamboo flute.


    The bamboo flute had no magical aura, appearing as a simple, dried-out piece of yellowed bamboo.


    Initially, Nie Fancheng regarded Zhong Shan with a faint smile, but upon seeing the bamboo flute, his entire demeanor changed. He stood up abruptly, his expression filled with tenderness as he gazed at the flute. Then, his eyes turned icy, and the temperature in the hall plummeted.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A tremendous p of thunder resounded above Li Huo Sacred City, startling the citizens. Outside the pce, the old eunuch looked up at the sky, then back at the closed doors of the hall with a puzzled expression.


    What kind of ability does this Zhong Shan possess to provoke the emperor, who hasn''t lost his temper in a thousand years, the moment he enters?

 Chapter 429: Husbands and Wives Meet but Do Not Recognize Each Other

    <h4>Chapter 429: Husbands and Wives Meet but Do Not Recognize Each Other</h4>


    Nie Fancheng''s fury was palpable, his anger causing thunder to rumble across the skies of Li Huo Sacred Capital. The ministers in the city all looked up at the sky, sensing that something significant was about to happen.


    Anger? The emperor had not been angry for a thousand years. What could possibly provoke such rage?


    When a king is angry, a hundred thousand corpses may lie in his wake. When an emperor is angry, millions may die. When the emperor is enraged, how many lives will be lost?


    Within Li Huo Sacred Capital, Nie Fancheng gently caressed the bamboo flute, his eyes reflecting both anger and nostalgia. After a long while, he suppressed his rage and slowly sat back down.


    Reaching out, he took the jade slip from Zhong Shan''s hand.


    "You may leave. I will summon you again," Nie Fancheng said.


    As soon as he finished speaking, the grand doors of the hall swung open.


    "Escort him back," Nie Fancheng ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," the old eunuch replied immediately.


    With a lingering sense of puzzlement, Zhong Shan followed the eunuch out.


    As Zhong Shan exited, the grand doors of the hall shut once more.


    From outside, Zhong Shan could see the skies over Li Huo Sacred Capital filled with rolling thunderclouds, a clear sign that Nie Fancheng''s anger had not yet subsided, and the emperor''s wrath was spilling over into the heavens.


    The skies roared with thunder as patrols within the city intensified. Every official hoped to avoid the emperor''s ire falling upon them, thus quickly restraining their subordinates and ensuring peace, praying that no trouble would arise at this moment.


    Zhong Shan returned to the Nanming Tribute Pce, pondering the significance of the bamboo flute. An ordinary bamboo flute had deeply affected the emperors of two great heavenly dynasties. Both Gu Shentong and Nie Fancheng disyed tenderness, followed by fury upon seeing it.


    Zhong Shan''s initial guess was that it involved a woman, someone so significant that even the mere thought of her could overshadow Nie Fancheng''s concern about the "Elixir of Immortality."


    Shaking his head, Zhong Shan decided to stop thinking about it for now.


    The next day, at Princess Qingqing''s residence:


    "Who are you?" a guard at the entrance asked.


    "Please inform the princess that an old acquaintance, Zhong Shan, hase to visit," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Zhong Shan?" The guard''s voice rose in surprise.


    Zhong Shan gently removed his hood.


    "Pleasee in, Duke of the East. The princess instructed us to notify her immediately if you arrived," the guard said, hurrying inside.


    Zhong Shan was led to a grand hall within the princess''s residence, where he waited patiently.


    In an inner courtyard of Princess Qingqing''s residence...


    Nie Qingqing and Tian Ling''er were watching a small red sparrow.


    "Sister, what''s wrong with Little Redtely? It always seems so listless, barely eating half of what it used to. Is it sick?" Tian Ling''er asked, stroking the sparrow with concern.


    "It should be fine," Nie Qingqing replied, trying to reassure Tian Ling''er, though she herself was unsure.


    "Your Highness, Duke Zhong Shan requests an audience," a servant announced.


    "Duke Zhong Shan?" Tian Ling''er said, surprised.


    "Ling''er, wait here for me," Nie Qingqing instructed.


    "But I want to meet Zhong Shan too. Let me go with you," Tian Ling''er insisted.


    "No, you stay here and take care of Little Red. I''ll introduce you to him when I return," Nie Qingqing said, a hint of panic in her voice.


    "Uh, alright!" Tian Ling''er noticed Nie Qingqing''s odd behavior and quickly agreed.


    Nie Qingqing promptly left.


    Seeing Nie Qingqing walk away, Tian Ling''er''s eyes twinkled mischievously, a yful smile forming on her lips.


    "Hmph, sneaking off to meet a lover? I want to see what this Zhong Shan is like," Tian Ling''er murmured to herself mischievously.


    Ignoring the red sparrow''s protests, she grabbed it while it was eating and began to stealthily follow Nie Qingqing.


    Zhong Shan waited in the hall, and after a stick of incense, Nie Qingqing took a deep breath and walked in.


    "Princess Qingqing, where is Ling''er?" Zhong Shan asked immediately upon seeing Nie Qingqing.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s eagerness, Nie Qingqing''s expression becameplicated.


    "My people saw Ling''er enter your residence. I know she''s here. Where is she? Are you still trying to keep us apart? Are you going back on your word?" Zhong Shan demanded impatiently.


    "Enough!" Nie Qingqing''s expression tightened.


    "What do you mean ''enough''? Ling''er is clearly in your residence. Why won''t you let us see each other?" Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with determination.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s intense gaze, Nie Qingqing felt a mix of emotions. "Husband and wife? Ling''er is not your wife."


    "With heaven and earth as witnesses, Ling''er is my wife. Why can''t I see her?" Zhong Shan insisted, his face growing darker.


    Nie Qingqing sighed slightly. "Today''s Ling''er is not the Ling''er of the past."


    "All I know is that she is still my wife, Ling''er," Zhong Shan''s face grew even more stern.


    "But, Ling''er has forgotten you," Nie Qingqing said, shaking her head.


    "What happened?" Zhong Shan asked again, clearly aware from the information his subordinates had gathered that something was wrong with Ling''er.


    "She has lost all memories of you," Nie Qingqing exined.


    Zhong Shan stared at Nie Qingqing, his expression bing more intense.


    At that moment, Tian Ling''er sneaked up to the hall''s entrance and peeked inside. She saw Nie Qingqing talking to a man whose back was turned towards her. The figure was strikingly simr to the one she often saw in her dreams. Exactly the same.


    "Osmanthus Cake!" Tian Ling''er eximed. This was the name she had given the figure in her dreams.


    Hearing Tian Ling''er''s exmation, Zhong Shan''s body stiffened, and he froze in ce.


    Facing Zhong Shan, Nie Qingqing''s heart trembled. She saw tears suddenly streaming down Zhong Shan''s face. It was an overwhelming sight.


    Men crying wasn''t something she hadn''t seen before, but knowing Zhong Shan''s background and seeing him shed tears at the mention of "Osmanthus Cake" was profoundly moving. The scene would remain etched in her memory forever.


    Zhong Shan slowly turned around and saw Tian Ling''er sticking out her tongue, looking like she felt guilty for causing trouble and trying to hide.


    "Ling''er!" Zhong Shan called out tenderly.


    Tian Ling''er, thinking she had disrupted Nie Qingqing''s private moment, prepared to sneak away.


    But Zhong Shan''s call made her stop in her tracks. A wave of inexplicable sadness washed over her, causing her to frown. What was happening?


    The man was crying. He seemed familiar, yet she couldn''t ce him.


    "Who are you? Why are you calling me ''Ling''er''?" Tian Ling''er asked, confused, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Who am I?" Zhong Shan felt a sharp pain in his heart.


    "Ling''er, you don''t remember me?" Zhong Shan called out again, his voice filled with deep emotion.


    "Are you the ''Zhong Shan'' my sister mentioned?" Tian Ling''er asked, her confusion evident as she looked at Zhong Shan.


    Nie Qingqing stepped aside, knowing that since the two had met, there was no point in intervening further. She sighed and stayed silent.


    "I am Zhong Shan. Do you really not remember me?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I don''t know you. How do you know me?" Tian Ling''er clutched the red sparrow, her face full of confusion.


    "I am your husband! I am Zhong Shan!" Zhong Shan repeated.


    Upon hearing this, Tian Ling''er''s grip tightened, causing the red sparrow to squawk in distress, its eyes bulging in innocent bewilderment.


    "You''re not my husband. I''m not married yet. Sister, why is your friend so rude?" Tian Ling''er cried out.


    "Nie Qingqing, tell her! Tell her I''m telling the truth," Zhong Shan implored.


    "Ling''er, he is telling the truth," Nie Qingqing confirmed.


    "I don''t believe you! You''re lying to me. How is that possible?" Tian Ling''er was visibly panicking, her hands still gripping the unfortunate red sparrow. Nie Qingqing could only smile wryly.


    "Ling''er, do you remember a wooden carving? I gave it to you. Do you still have it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Tian Ling''er immediately recalled the beautifully carved wooden figure in her storage bracelet. It was a perfect replica of herself, but she had no memory of who had given it to her.


    "And the dice? Do you remember? That day in the casino, we lost a million taels of silver but won it all back because of that small die. Do you remember?" Zhong Shan continued.


    Tian Ling''er thought again. There was indeed a die in her storage bracelet. How could this be? She couldn''t remember why these items were there, but she was certain it wasn''t because she was Zhong Shan''s wife.


    Shaking her head, still in disbelief, she looked at Nie Qingqing, hoping for denial. But Nie Qingqing nodded in confirmation.


    "No! That''s impossible. You''re lying to me!" Tian Ling''er cried out in fear and ran away.


    "Osmanthus Cake!" Zhong Shan called out.


    At his shout, Tian Ling''er paused momentarily. It wasn''t a conscious action but a reflexive response to hearing him call her by that name, which touched her heart deeply.


    However, in her confusion and disbelief, she continued running, escaping in panic.


    Zhong Shan moved to pursue her.


    "There''s no need. The emperor has assigned people to protect her. Don''t worry," Nie Qingqing said quickly.


    "What''s happened to Ling''er?" Zhong Shan turned back, his eyes red with emotion, ring at Nie Qingqing.


    Nie Qingqing sighed deeply. Zhong Shan''s earlier impulsiveness slowly subsided as he realized he needed to understand what had happened to Ling''er.


    "What happened to her?" Zhong Shan asked, taking a deep breath to steady himself.


    Nie Qingqing looked at Zhong Shan intently and said, "Do you remember when I took her to Phoenix Pce for Nirvana rebirth?"


    "Yes. I was rude earlier, but regardless of everything, thank you for saving Ling''er. I owe you for her life," Zhong Shan said, bowing deeply to Nie Qingqing. Zhong Shan was a person who distinguished between gratitude and resentment clearly. This bow was genuine and heartfelt.


    "During her Nirvana rebirth, Ling''er missed you too much. To save her, the Phoenix n''s supreme elder had to seal all her memories rted to you. Only then could they save her in the end," Nie Qingqing exined.


    "Memories of me? Well, sealing them was the right thing to do. As long as Ling''er is alive, that''s what matters. Even if she forgot about me, she couldn''t forget the feelings, the pain in her heart," Zhong Shan said, his voice filled with a mix of relief and sorrow.

 Chapter 430: Wooing

    <h4>Chapter 430: Wooing</h4>


    "Memories of me? Well, sealing them was the right thing to do. As long as Ling''er is alive, that''s what matters. Even if she forgot about me, she couldn''t forget the feelings, the pain in her heart."


    Nie Qingqing sighed deeply as she looked at Zhong Shan.


    "How can the seal on Ling''er be lifted?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "Lifting it? There is a way, but it''s extremely difficult," Nie Qingqing replied.


    "Difficult? No matter how hard it is, it must be done."


    "To remove the seal, only the one who ced it can undo it. The Phoenix n''s supreme elder must perform the ''Phoenix Song of the Nine Heavens'' to lift the seal without harming Ling''er''s soul. However, it''s said that performing this technique takes a significant toll on the Phoenix Supreme," Nie Qingqing exined.


    "So what? Please help me arrange a meeting with her. I need to talk to her," Zhong Shan said.


    Nie Qingqing gave Zhong Shan a peculiar look.


    "Do you think meeting the Phoenix Supreme is so simple?" A mocking voice suddenly sounded from outside the hall.


    A woman in a green dress slowly walked in, her eyes cold and piercing.


    "Little fellow, you haven''t seen me for a while, and your cultivation has improved quite a bit! How did someone with your bone structure manage to reach the Nascent Soul stage?" the green-d woman remarked, staring at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan looked at her curiously. She was stunningly beautiful, but he didn''t recognize her. How did she know him?


    "Qing''er!" Nie Qingqing called out immediately.


    Qing''er? Zhong Shan''s mind shed with realization. She was the Qingluan, the green phoenix that Nie Qingqing used to ride to Heavenly Wolf Ind. She was that phoenix general?


    "Zhong Shan greets the Phoenix General!" Zhong Shan said.


    The green-d woman sneered, "I just heard you want to meet the Supreme. Why should the Supreme meet you? What qualifications do you have?"


    "I have something important to discuss with the Phoenix Supreme. As for my qualifications, once the Supreme meets me, she will understand that I indeed have the necessary qualifications," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    Indeed, Zhong Shan had the qualifications. While his title as the Duke of the East of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty might seem low, his status as the Emperor of the Da Yao Dynasty was enough. The Emperor of Da Yao stood on equal footing with the Supreme of the Wolf n, who, in turn, was an equal of the Phoenix Supreme.


    "Hmph, impossible!" Qingluan dismissed him outright.


    Seeing Qingluan''s resolute refusal, Zhong Shan didn''t press the issue and turned back to Nie Qingqing. "Princess Qingqing, no matter what, you saved Ling''er, and I will be forever grateful. Since I can''t meet the Phoenix Supreme, I have another request."


    "Oh?" Nie Qingqing looked at Zhong Shan in surprise.


    Qingluan also looked slightly puzzled, seeing how quickly Zhong Shan shifted focus.


    "Ling''er has forgotten me, but she hasn''t forgotten our feelings. I want to try rekindling those memories. Can you create opportunities for us to meet?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Meet?" Nie Qingqing looked at Zhong Shan with some hesitation.


    "I won''t do anything. I just want to talk to Ling''er!" Zhong Shan pleaded, his eyes filled with hope.


    Not realizing the power of Zhong Shan''s persuasive words, Nie Qingqing reluctantly agreed. "Alright, I''ll try."


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan immediately smiled.


    "Dare I ask, Phoenix General, how should I address you?" Zhong Shan turned to Qingluan.


    "My name is Qinghong," Qingluan replied proudly.


    "Zhong Shan apologizes for the intrusion," Zhong Shan said.


    "Hmm!" Qinghong felt somewhat appeased.


    After leaving Qingqing Princess''s residence, Zhong Shan returned to the Namming Pce.


    Standing on the floating ind, Zhong Shan looked at his gatheredpanions and recounted the earlier events.


    "Zhihuo!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Huh? General?" Zhihuo the wolf general was slightly surprised.


    "I have an important task for you, of utmost importance!"


    "Zhihuo will give it my all!" Zhihuo said firmly.


    "Hmm. In the princess''s residence, there''s a phoenix general, Qinghong. Do you know her?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "You mentioned her just now, General," Zhihuo replied, nodding.


    "You have one month to win her over. Make her wholeheartedly devoted to you as your wife," Zhong Shanmanded.


    Ordered to seduce a woman? Zhihuo''s face fell. Win her over?


    The others around him were initially surprised but then burst intoughter.


    "What''s the matter? Is there a problem?" Zhong Shan asked Zhihuo.


    "General, send me to fight in a battle or risk my life, no problem. But to seduce her? This...!" Zhihuoined.


    "Isn''t your wife deceased? You''re single now, what are you afraid of?" Liu Wushuang teased.


    "Yes, Qingluan is very sought after in the Phoenix n. Qingluan is of the wood element, which enhances fire. She''s the perfect partner for someone who cultivates fire, like you!" Lin Xiao added with augh.


    "But..." Zhihuo was at a loss.


    "Didn''t you just say you''d give it your all?" Shui Wuhenughed.


    "But, this is different!" Zhihuo protested.


    "There''s no difference. This is an order!" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    Feeling aggrieved, Zhihuo reluctantly epted his orders.


    "General, could you describe the bird that Princess Ling''er was holding again?" Mister Corpse asked, frowning.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled. Nheless, he used a spell to conjure an image of the red sparrow for Mister Corpse.


    Upon seeing the image, Mister Corpse''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Mister Corpse took a deep breath. "General, do you know what this is?"


    "Isn''t it just a mutated sparrow?" Zhihuo asked, confused.


    "A sparrow? Ha, this sparrow is more noble than all the sparrows in the worldbined," Mister Corpse said solemnly.


    "Oh?"


    "This is a Vermilion Bird!" Mister Corpse said with certainty.


    Vermilion Bird? The group was puzzled. What''s the difference? Vermilion is red, red is vermilion, a red sparrow is a vermilion sparrow, right?


    Only Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. Vermilion Bird, indeed. Lihuo?


    "Has there never been a Vermilion Bird in the world?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Zhihuo was about to speak.


    "No, it''s impossible for a Vermilion Bird to appear in this world," Mister Corpse shook his head immediately.


    Zhihuo was puzzled but still nodded.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Because every Vermilion Bird''s fate is ''Immortal Fate''," Mister Corpse said.


    "How is that possible? Immortal Fate? Are you saying that this Vermilion Bird is an immortal? How could an immortal exist in this world? Wouldn''t they have ascended?" Zhihuo immediately dismissed the notion.


    "Not an immortal, but an immortal avian. Vermilion Birds are incredibly rare. Some say they are mutated sparrows, others say they are evolved phoenixes, but their origins are unknown. The only thing known is their rarity and that each one possesses an Immortal Fate. It''s very strange that this one hasn''t attracted the world''s heavenly punishment, and it must be due to some secret method," Mister Corpse exined.


    "That''s impossible. If none have ever appeared, how can you say that people... some people... You must be making this up," Zhihuo used, trying to expose Mister Corpse''s lies.


    "I believe Mister Corpse," Zhong Shan interjected.


    With Zhong Shan''s words, everyone suppressed their doubts. Surprised, Mister Corpse nodded and continued, "Do you know why those who have ascended to the immortal realm dare not return?"


    "Because of the world''s rules of rejection," Zhong Shan answered.


    Mister Corpse nodded. "That''s one reason, but more importantly, those with Immortal Fate who return will face a severe limitation imposed by this world. A terrifying limitation."


    "Oh?"


    "Time Reversal!" Mister Corpse dered.


    "Time Reversal? I think I''ve heard the Supreme mention it, but I didn''t understand at the time. What does it mean exactly?" Zhihuo asked.


    "Did Emperor Xuansha mention it?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Yes!"


    "Time Reversal means that this world will impose restrictions on their Immortal Fate, causing them to regress from their peak to their lowest point. In other words, their lifespan will be limited to a hundred years. If they don''t leave within a hundred years, even immortals must die," Mister Corpse exined.


    "People envy the immortal realm, but the immortals fear the mortal realm. In other words, the mortal realm is actually an immortal graveyard?" Zhong Shan mused with a smile.


    "Uh, you could see it that way," Mister Corpse replied, looking at Zhong Shan strangely.


    "Wait!" Zhong Shan''s brows suddenly furrowed.


    "What is it?" Mister Corpse asked, puzzled.


    "That red bird, no, Vermilion Bird, it seemed to have developed intelligence but not much, like the mind of an infant. It''s very likely that it was born in this world. Didn''t you say no one knows how it was born?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Uh!" Mister Corpse frowned, unable to understand.


    "It must have been born in this world and then used by the Phoenix Supreme with some secret method to conceal its Immortal Fate," Zhong Shan spected.


    "Uh, that''s possible," Mister Corpse nodded.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes glowed with determination. "You all may leave now. Mister Corpse,e with me to the hall to discuss the Vermilion Bird further."


    "Yes!" everyone responded immediately.


    Three dayster, Zhong Shan, apanied by Zhihuo, returned to Qingqing Princess''s residence.


    Zhihuo now had a very challenging task: to win over Qingluan Qinghong.


    "Why the long face? It''s not like I''m sending you to your death. What are you afraid of?" Zhong Shan scolded Zhihuo as they waited.


    "I''d rather face death!" Zhihuo muttered, his face twisted with difort.


    Zhong Shan red at him, making Zhihuo fall silent.


    Not long after, Nie Qingqing arrived.


    "Princess Qingqing!" Zhong Shan greeted her.


    "Hmm, when you meet Ling''er, I must be present," Nie Qingqing stated.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll stay hidden. Otherwise, how would I know if you bullied Ling''er?" Nie Qingqing said.


    Zhong Shan smiled wryly but nodded.


    "By the way, is Qingluan Qinghong still at your residence?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes," Nie Qingqing nodded, a hint of suspicion in her eyes.


    Zhong Shan pulled Zhihuo over. "This is General Zhihuo. He has urgent business with Qinghong."


    Zhihuo''s face was extremely stiff, looking as if he was walking to his doom.

 Chapter 431: Evil Meets Its Match

    <h4>Chapter 431: Evil Meets Its Match</h4>


    At the Xiaoyao Residence!


    "Did he really go to Princess Qingqing''s mansion?" Xiaoyao Hou Nie Kuang sneered.


    In front of Xiaoyao Hou stood a guard-like man.


    "Absolutely, my lord. Ever since you told me to keep an eye on him, I''ve been watching closely. He went to Princess Qingqing''s mansion, but I don''t know what exactly happened," the guard reported.


    "Of course, you wouldn''t know. You''re just a gatekeeper," Nie Kuang sneered.


    "Move out!" Nie Kuangmanded a group of elite subordinates.


    Swiftly, they left the Xiaoyao Residence, heading straight for Princess Qingqing''s mansion.


    At Princess Qingqing''s Mansion


    "You''re looking for Qing''er?" Nie Qingqing asked Zhihuo Wolf General, puzzled.


    Zhihuo blushed, looking like a shy youth on his first date, unsure of what to say.


    Seeing Zhihuo''s timid behavior, Zhong Shan felt a surge of contempt. Is he really chickening out at a critical moment?


    Having no other choice, Zhong Shan stepped in. "Zhihuo once met Qinghong and was struck by her beauty. He has been thinking about her ever since, deeply admiring her. He hasn''t found apanion in years. This time, he came to Lihuo Holy Capital to make up for past regrets. I hope Princess Qingqing can help him fulfill this wish."


    Zhong Shan finished his speech and kicked Zhihuo''s leg.


    "Uh, yes, that''s right!" Zhihuo stammered.


    Nie Qingqing was taken aback, finding the situation hard to believe.


    "Princess Qingqing, just let them meet. After all, they are adults, and if it''s meant to be, we can''t stop it," Zhong Shan said, sounding like a parent arranging a marriage for his child.


    "Very well, Qing''er lives in the eastern courtyard. I can take you there," Nie Qingqing offered, still puzzled.


    "No need, let them handle their own affairs. We shouldn''t interfere," Zhong Shan said, sounding like Zhihuo''s guardian.


    "Alright then," Nie Qingqing agreed, shaking her head slightly. She believed Qinghong wouldn''t be at a disadvantage.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan urged.


    "Okay."


    Zhihuo reluctantly went to the eastern courtyard to court Qinghong, while Zhong Shan followed Nie Qingqing to the western part of the courtyard to see Ling''er.


    In the western part of Princess Qingqing''s mansion, there was a beautiful little valley with a stream, woods, and a small hill. The environment was exceptionally serene.


    Tian Ling''er was sitting at a stone table, watching the little Vermilion Bird peck at some fiery red grains.


    "Ling''er," Nie Qingqing called.


    Tian Ling''er jumped up, looking very nervous.


    Seeing Zhong Shan approaching, Tian Ling''er instinctively tensed up. Ever since their encounter three days ago, although she was furious with Zhong Shan''s rudeness, she couldn''t stop dreaming about the familiar figure who called her "Osmanthus Cake." And now, that figure was Zhong Shan.


    She didn''t understand how she could know Zhong Shan when she had no memory of him. Why was this happening?


    Until Nie Qingqing talked to her about meeting Zhong Shan again to rify things, she was still confused about how she had agreed so readily.


    "Princess Ling''er!" Zhong Shan called out.


    Hearing Zhong Shan address her as a princess, Tian Ling''er let out a sigh of relief. She was terrified he would mention being her husband again.


    "zhong,zhongshan!" Tian Ling''er said, a bit awkwardly.


    "Three days ago, I was too abrupt."


    "It''s okay. Just don''t talk nonsense next time."


    "Haha, I definitely wasn''t talking nonsense. I know you don''t believe what I said before. Let''s talk it through. Think about it yourself��how did you leave the Kaiyang Sect ande here?"


    "I was seriously injured!"


    "How did you get injured?"


    "Sister said it was by someone who broke into the Kaiyang Sect!"


    "Princess Qingqing said that?"


    "Yes!"


    "Do you remember it yourself?"


    Tian Ling''er began to think deeply, but suddenly clutched her head in pain.


    "Alright, alright, don''t think about it!" Zhong Shan immediately said.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er in pain, Zhong Shan felt a pang of heartache.


    "I can''t remember." Tian Ling''er shook her head.


    "Don''t think about it. Just listen to me," Zhong Shan said softly.


    "Okay."


    "First of all, it''s undeniable that you''ve lost a part of your memory."


    "Mm!" Tian Ling''er nodded.


    "During the time you can''t remember, I''ll help you recall. You can choose to believe it or not. Just treat it as a story. How about that?" Zhong Shan said gently.


    "Okay, but I might not believe it!" Tian Ling''er said warily.


    "That''s fine." Zhong Shan quickly agreed, feeling a bit relieved.


    Just as Zhong Shan was about to start talking...


    "Princess, Xiaoyao Hou has barged in," a servant hurriedly reported.


    "Xiaoyao Hou?" Nie Qingqing raised an eyebrow.


    "Qingqing Aunt!" Xiaoyao Hou walked in grandly with a dozen subordinates, who were the same elite experts from before.


    "Xiaoyao Hou, what are you doing here?" Nie Qingqing said, anger shing in her eyes.


    Xiaoyao Hou nced at Nie Qingqing with a hint of lewdness, then turned to look at Tian Ling''er and Zhong Shan.


    Seeing them, Xiaoyao Hou''s eyes filled with malice.


    "Aunt, I came to see you! Oh, and Ling''er Aunt is here too!" Xiaoyao Hou said, smiling wickedly as he approached.


    Tian Ling''er shrank back, clearly disliking Xiaoyao Hou.


    Zhong Shan instinctively moved to protect Tian Ling''er.


    Xiaoyao Hou noticed Zhong Shan''s protective stance and his eyes turned even colder.


    "Zhong Shan?" Xiaoyao Hou looked at him with icy malice.


    "Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, Eastern Duke Zhong Shan, greets Xiaoyao Hou," Zhong Shan said, smiling.


    Xiaoyao Hou nced around, seeing that Mr. Corpse wasn''t present, and his arrogance grew.


    "Zhong Shan, do you know where you are?" Xiaoyao Hou asked.


    "Not your home."


    "Hmph!" Xiaoyao Hou snorted coldly, then shifted his attention to Tian Ling''er, who was hiding behind Zhong Shan.


    "Ling''er Aunt, I saw a beautiful bracelet in the market. Here, it''s for you," Xiaoyao Hou said as he walked towards them.


    "I don''t want it!" Tian Ling''er shouted immediately. "Come on, let me put it on for you," the evil smile on Xiaoyao Hou''s face widened as he reached out to grab Tian Ling''er''s hand.


    "p!" Zhong Shan red and grabbed Xiaoyao Hou''s arm.


    "What are you doing?" Xiaoyao Hou saw this as an opportunity and erupted with anger. The apanying imperial guards surrounded them.


    Xiaoyao Hou had made up his mind to take revenge today. Even if Zhong Shan didn''t provoke him, he wanted to humiliate Zhong Shan. After all, this was his territory, and he was in charge here!


    He also believed that in Lihuo Holy Capital, Zhong Shan wouldn''t darey a finger on him. Who would dare to offend him in Lihuo Holy Capital?


    "Boom ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" A dark thunder followed Zhong Shan''s hand and entered Xiaoyao Hou''s arm, exploding with a loud bang.


    "Ah ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Xiaoyao Hou screamed in agony. How dare he attack?


    "Kill him, kill him ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Xiaoyao Hou shouted in pain.


    "You dare! Who do you think you are to attack me?" Zhong Shan roared, sending several more dark thunders into Xiaoyao Hou''s body.


    "Ah ~~~ Ah ~~~ Ah ~~~ Ah ~~~ Ah ~~~" Xiaoyao Hou''s face contorted in pain. The imperial guards, just standing there, seemed useless. The dark thunders exploding inside him felt like lightning bolts, causing unimaginable pain.


    "Kill him, kill him, I''ll take responsibility! Just an imperial duke, kill him ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Xiaoyao Hou stubbornly shouted.


    The dozen imperial guards finally made up their minds to kill Zhong Shan.


    "Hmph, I am the envoy of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, a royal emissary representing the Great Luo Emperor. Do you dare to attack an envoy?" Zhong Shan roared again.


    Hearing Zhong Shan, the guards hesitated once more.


    Gu Shentong? He represents Gu Shentong? Who dares to attack him? Not to mention the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty wouldn''t spare them, even the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty wouldn''t forgive them, regardless of Xiaoyao Hou''s backing.


    "Zhong Shan, I curse you to die miserably!" Xiaoyao Hou shouted stubbornly.


    Zhong Shan coldly looked at the already crippled Xiaoyao Hou. "Xiaoyao Hou, is it? I don''t care who you are, remember this: never provoke me again. Hmph!"


    With a wave, Zhong Shan threw the crippled Xiaoyao Hou away.


    His subordinates immediately caught him.


    "Useless ~~~~" Xiaoyao Hou cursed his subordinates with difficulty.


    "Get lost ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Zhong Shan roared, and the imperial guards quickly took Xiaoyao Hou away.


    Zhong Shan''s series of actions were witnessed by the two women, who didn''t intervene. They both felt a surge of excitement, especially because they were well aware of Xiaoyao Hou''s evil deeds. Seeing Zhong Shan humiliate him brought them an indescribable sense of satisfaction.


    "Good! Beat that bad guy to death!" Tian Ling''er eximed as Xiaoyao Hou left.


    "You should be more careful from now on," Nie Qingqing advised.


    "I know."


    "How did you dare hit him? No one in Lihuo Holy Capital has ever dared to hit him," Tian Ling''er asked, her eyes blinking with curiosity.


    "One evil man deserves another," Nie Qingqingughed, covering her mouth.


    One evil man deserves another? Zhong Shan scratched his nose, feeling speechless.


    "Alright, back to the main topic," Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh!"


    "Thirty-six years ago, I first arrived at Kaiyang Sect..."


    Zhong Shan began to recount the story. The two women listened attentively.


    Hearing a story that involved her, Tian Ling''er felt curious, wary, and engaged.


    When he talked about leaving the sect.


    "Osmanthus Cake? So you made the Osmanthus Cake? What happened next?"


    "Then we left the sect, and for our first camping trip, we used this!" Zhong Shan took out a hammock.


    "Uh, I have one too. How do you use it?" Tian Ling''er asked, intrigued.


    Zhong Shan walked to a nearby grove and tied the hammock between two trees. Tian Ling''er''s eyes lit up as she hurriedly set up her own hammock in the same way.


    "Is this a bed?" Tian Ling''er asked excitedly as she climbed up.

 Chapter 432: In the Court

    <h4>Chapter 432: In the Court</h4>


    Watching Tian Ling''er sitting on the hammock, swinging happily just like in the past, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but recall those days, a mysterious smile appearing on his face.


    Nie Qingqing discreetly retreated into the shadows, hiding in the small grove.


    "This is the osmanthus cake I made. The Tian Ling''er from the story loved it, even licking her fingers after eating it." Zhong Shan took out a small box, which he had made over the past two days.


    Tian Ling''er, with a hint of curiosity, grabbed a piece and tossed it into her mouth. Her eyes lit up as she tasted it. It wasn''t that she hadn''t eaten anything better, but there was a sudden, inexplicable fondness for it, as if this osmanthus cake was indeed her favorite. She couldn''t help but lick her fingers after eating it.


    After licking her fingers, Tian Ling''er froze. She looked at Zhong Shan with a bit of panic, quickly stopped licking her fingers, and put down the osmanthus cake, not eating any more.


    What''s happening? Why am I acting like the Tian Ling''er in the story?


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan continued recounting their stories.


    When he talked about the casino, Tian Ling''er took out the dice with great curiosity. When he mentioned identifying the culprit by fingerprints to save the little wolf, she looked at her own thumb with interest.


    When he talked about his home, the Blood Bodhi, and the strange man at the bottom of the magma, and when they used the air cannon to shoot into the sky, Tian Ling''er''s eyes were full of wonder.


    The story was fascinating.


    When Zhong Shan described being swallowed by a snake, Tian Ling''er felt a tightness in her chest. Her hands clenched.


    When he talked about the Eight Gates Mountain, Tian Ling''er was even more intrigued.


    When he mentioned the Thunder Scorpion Valley, where Zhong Shan risked his life to save her, Tian Ling''er waspletely engrossed in the story.


    Mentioning "Osmanthus Cake" again, Zhong Shan recounted how he blocked the cave entrance to save Tian Ling''er, giving her a chance to live.


    Tian Ling''er couldn''t stop her tears from flowing. Deep within her heart, a tearing pain seemed to resurface, ripping through her heart, as if ming her.


    Zhong Shan couldn''t continue.


    Nie Qingqing emerged from the shadows, supporting the tearful Tian Ling''er, her eyes also filled withplex emotions as she looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Come back tomorrow," Nie Qingqing said.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded and left.


    He called for General Zhi Huo and returned to the Nanming Pce.


    In the Nanming Pce.


    "How did it go today?" Zhong Shan asked General Zhi Huo.


    "Uh, it was okay," General Zhi Huo replied awkwardly.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan didn''t press further.


    The next day, Zhong Shan continued his story. He noticed that Tian Ling''er''s feelings towards him had changed slightly. She was more guarded but also had a hint ofplexity in her expression.


    Tian Ling''er didn''t eat the osmanthus cake again, listening to Zhong Shan''s moving recollections.


    Women are emotional creatures. Not just Tian Ling''er, but even Nie Qingqing, after hearing the entire story, became more sentimental. Her attitude towards Zhong Shan improved significantly.


    Zhong Shan told the story for four consecutive days. After all, the days they had spent together were long, and there was a lot to say. However, by the end of the four days, he had covered most of it.


    "Sister, I need to go back and think things over. I won''t being here for the next few days," Tian Ling''er said, her eyes red.


    "Alright," Nie Qingqing nodded.


    When Tian Ling''er went to pick up Little Red, Zhong Shan walked over.


    "What are these?" Zhong Shan grabbed some of the food meant for the vermilion bird.


    In that moment, Zhong Shan discreetly mixed in a few grains of simr-looking millet that he had specially asked Mr. Corpse to prepare over the past few days.


    "This is Fire-umting Rice, Little Red''s food!" Tian Ling''er gathered the rice, cradled the vermilion bird, and left.


    Watching Tian Ling''er leave, Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "It''s not going to work. The Phoenix Sovereign''s seal can''t be so easily broken," Nie Qingqing shook her head and sighed.


    "Regardless of whether it works or not, thank you," Zhong Shan said to Nie Qingqing.


    "Sigh!"


    Zhong Shan took his leave and returned to Nanming Pce with General Zhi Huo.


    "How''s the task of wooing Qing Hong going?" Zhong Shan asked General Zhi Huo.


    "Uh, it''s going okay," Zhi Huo replied.


    "Okay? What do you mean by ''okay''?"


    "Uh..."


    "What does Qing Hong look like?" Zhong Shan asked with a hint of uncertainty.


    "Uh..." Zhi Huo hesitated.


    Zhong Shan red at General Zhi Huo.


    "Don''t tell me that in these four days, your so-called ''okay'' means you haven''t even seen Qing Hong yet?" Zhong Shan''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    General Zhi Huo lowered his head in shame and nodded.


    "Damn!" Zhong Shan eximed.


    Two dayster, at the early morning court of Great Li, Zhong Shan patiently waited below the Lihuo Hall.


    "Announcing the envoy from the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty to enter the Lihuo Hall!"


    Zhong Shan ascended the heavenly steps once again, walking towards the grand Lihuo Hall.


    As he reached the hall''s entrance, he overheard some voices from within.


    "Reporting to Your Majesty, the Crown Prince of the Dacheng Celestial Dynasty, Zhao Tiansha, arrived at the Lihuo Hallst night. He ims to bring the sincerity of the Dacheng Celestial Dynasty and seeks an audience with Your Majesty. He has been arranged to stay at Siyang Pce."


    "The sincerity of the Dacheng Celestial Dynasty? We''ve been at war with them for years. What sincerity could they possibly have?"


    "Announce,"manded Nie Fancheng.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," the officials fell silent.


    Zhong Shan stepped into the hall as an elderly eunuch stepped out, evidently to fetch Zhao Tiansha.


    Inside the grand hall, officials lined up on either side, with the Great Li Emperor, Nie Fancheng, seated high above, exuding an aura of solemnity and grandeur, much like the court of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty��majestic, sacred, and invible.


    Among the officials, Zhong Shan recognized two faces: one was the sneering Xiaoyao Hou, and the other was the kindly smiling Shaofei Hou.


    "Envoy from the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty, Zhong Shan, pays respects to the Great Li Emperor. May the Great Li Emperor enjoy eternal blessings and longevity equal to the heavens!" Zhong Shan bowed slightly.


    "Envoy from the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty, what is the purpose of your visit?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "Both the Great Luo and Great Li Celestial Dynasties are models for the world, but the distance between us is vast. My emperor, remembering his old friendship with the Great Li Emperor, has specially sent me, Zhong Shan, to foster friendship and deepen ties between our two dynasties. I bring countless special spiritual fruits from the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty and also wish to request a ''Thousand Autumn Fruit'' from the Great Li Emperor as a token of our friendship," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Granted," Nie Fancheng replied indifferently.


    Then, several eunuchs came over with trays. Zhong Shan carefully took out the spirit fruits from the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty and ced them one by one onto the trays.


    The numerous spirit fruits filled the entire hall with a delicate fragrance, causing everyone to feel as if their pores had opened up just by inhaling the scent. Most of these spirit fruits were of the seventh grade and extremely precious.


    However, external objects are ultimately just that. The officials in the court, having seen many grand spectacles, were slightly impressed but mostly remained calm.


    After all the spirit fruits were presented, an eunuch came forward carrying a silver fruit. The fruit was about the size of a fist, covered in countless fine scales that made it look like it was wrapped in snake skin.


    An eighth-grade spirit fruit, the Thousand Autumn Fruit.


    Seeing this fruit, Zhong Shan immediately recognized it. He carefully took out a small jade box and solemnly ced the fruit inside.


    "Thank you, Great Li Emperor!" Zhong Shan bowed respectfully after securing the fruit.


    "I have heard that the Eastern Duke of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty has obtained an elixir of immortality. Is this true?" Xiaoyao Hou suddenly asked in a peculiar tone.


    An elixir of immortality? The officials'' expressions tightened, and they all looked at Zhong Shan with eager anticipation.


    "What is this official''s name?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Xiaoyao Hou.


    The question made Xiaoyao Hou''s face turn red with anger. You''ve hit me twice and now you''re pretending not to know me? He did it on purpose.


    "I am Xiaoyao Hou, Nie Kuang of the Great Li Celestial Dynasty!" Xiaoyao Hou said in a deep voice.


    "Oh, Xiaoyao Hou! Zhong Shan remembers now. It''s unexpected to meet another official from Great Li here. Do visit me at the Nanming Pce sometime. I love making friends," Zhong Shan said cheerfully,pletely ignoring the question about the elixir of immortality.


    The officials were taken aback. What nonsense is this? He''s asking you about the elixir of immortality, and you''re talking about making friends? As for Xiaoyao Hou, he was furious. Friends? Hell no, I want to skin you, pull your tendons, and drink your blood.


    Perhaps due to old sentiments, Nie Fancheng, not wanting to see Nie Kuang suffer further, intervened.


    "Zhong Shan, I too have heard about you obtaining an elixir of immortality. Is this true?" Nie Fancheng asked authoritatively.


    In the court, all the officials looked at Zhong Shan expectantly.


    "Your Majesty, there is no such thing," Zhong Shan denied outright.


    Zhong Shan''s words left the officials frustrated.


    "You''re lying!" Xiaoyao Hou yelled.


    Zhong Shan ignored him and continued, "However, I did acquire a miraculous item. I am not sure if it is an elixir of immortality, but I have heard that consuming this item can increase one''s lifespan by at least a thousand years. I don''t know if it''s true."


    The court burst into chatter, the officials whispering to each other. Is there really such an item? At least a thousand years of life? An elixir of immortality?


    "Oh?" Nie Fancheng was slightly surprised.


    "My eyes are not discerning enough to determine its efficacy. May I request the Great Li Emperor to appraise it for me?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    All eyes in the court turned to Nie Fancheng. Xiaoyao Hou held back his anger, feeling slightly puzzled.


    "Alright," Nie Fancheng agreed directly.


    "The item seems to have a soul and cannot be stored in a storage bracelet. It is currently being held by one of my subordinates at the bottom of the heavenly steps. May I request Your Majesty''s permission to bring it up here?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Granted," Nie Fancheng replied.


    Soon, Lin Xiao, holding a purple tray covered with a crystal cover carved with nine dragons, entered the Lihuo Hall.


    In an instant, all eyes were on the crystal cover.

 Chapter 433: Four Men and a Woman

    <h4>Chapter 433: Four Men and a Woman</h4>


    An elixir of immortality? Could this really be the rumored elixir of immortality?


    All eyes in the court were fixed on Lin Xiao. These were people of great power, each exuding an immense aura not just of cultivation strength, but also of official authority, power, and prestige. The overwhelming pressure bore down on Lin Xiao, but he remained calm and confident, not showing a trace of fear.


    Some knowledgeable officials were slightly surprised.


    "Great Li Emperor, please take a look!" Zhong Shan said with a smile as he walked over and lifted the Nine-Dragon Crystal Cover.


    The Nine-Dragon Crystal Cover could block divine sense, so no one could see what was inside. As Zhong Shan lifted it, a purple light shed.


    Everyone''s eyes widened.


    What was that? A baby?


    They saw, on the tray, a tiny baby the size of a fist. The baby''s mouth curled into a sinister smile, surrounded by a faint purple mist, looking incredibly eerie.


    Everyone felt a rush of evil energy piercing their minds, making them feel uneasy. What was this thing? It looked so malevolent.


    No, it wasn''t a baby.


    Everyone gulped, unsure of what they were looking at.


    "Great Li Emperor, please take a look. This is what I obtained. I''ve only heard that consuming it can increase one''s lifespan by at least a thousand years. I am not certain if it is true, and I would like to request your evaluation," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Looking at the item next to Zhong Shan, Nie Fancheng''s pupils contracted instinctively. He recognized it.


    "Where did you get this?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "In the Great Jin Dynasty. It was discovered while we were assisting the Longevity Realm in exterminating the Demon Remnant Army headquarters," Zhong Shan replied truthfully.


    Demon Remnant Army headquarters? Nie Fancheng smiled slightly, as if he had thought of something.


    "Great Li Emperor, can you confirm the information I obtained? Does this item really have that effect?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It can indeed increase one''s lifespan by a thousand years," Nie Fancheng nodded.


    "Wow~~~"


    The officials could no longer contain themselves and burst into excited murmurs. It was true, it was really an elixir of immortality? The elixir of immortality?


    "Zhong Shan, are you nning to present this to the emperor?" Xiaoyao Hou Nie Kuang suddenly asked.


    Xiaoyao Hou''s question made everyone frown. They didn''t want Zhong Shan to give it to Nie Fancheng, but they couldn''t show it openly.


    "Xiaoyao Hou?" Zhong Shan asked with a puzzled smile.


    "Hmm?" Nie Kuang raised an eyebrow.


    "This is my possession. It''s not up to you to decide what I do with it," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    Zhong Shan''s words made the officials secretly breathe a sigh of relief. Though they couldn''t have it now, who knew what the future held? But if it was given to the emperor, they could forget about ever getting it.


    "Thank you, Great Li Emperor, for appraising this treasure for me," Zhong Shan said respectfully.


    Nie Fancheng looked at Zhong Shan, sensing that Zhong Shan hadn''t finished speaking. The rumors said Zhong Shan wanted to exchange this treasure for something from him.


    "Great Li Emperor, I have a wife who is currently in the Great Li Celestial Dynasty. I hope the emperor can bestow blessings upon us and allow me to take my wife home," Zhong Shan said sincerely.


    All eyes in the court turned to Nie Fancheng once more. The tension was palpable as everyone awaited his response.


    After Zhong Shan finished speaking, the court fell into a strange silence. Requesting the emperor''s blessing for him and his wife? What kind of nonsense was this?


    However, Nie Fancheng seemed to understand. A hint of reluctance shed in his eyes.


    "Who is your wife?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan. Yes, who was his wife, and why was she in the Li Fire Holy Capital? And why did he want the emperor''s blessing?


    "The princess of the Great Li Celestial Dynasty, Ling''er."


    "Wow~~~"


    The court erupted again. Princess Ling''er? Princess Ling''er? How audacious! What was Zhong Shan doing? Proposing? No, this was tarnishing the reputation of the Great Li Celestial Dynasty. When did Princess Ling''er be his wife?


    "Audacious! When did Princess Ling''er be your wife? Are you trying to disgrace the Great Li Celestial Dynasty?" Xiaoyao Hou jumped out again, shouting.


    "Great Li Emperor, in the past, the heavens were our witness, and my father-inw attested to it. Ling''er and I have long been married. Only because the Phoenix Supreme sealed Ling''er''s memory did she lose her recollection. Princess Qingqing can testify. If there is any falsehood in my words, may my cultivation forever halt. I am willing to exchange this ''elixir of immortality'' to take Ling''er home with me," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    The atmosphere in the court turned eerie. Xiaoyao Hou was furious, while Zhong Shan stood undaunted, asking the emperor for the princess in exchange for the elixir of immortality.


    "Your Majesty, the Crown Prince of the Great Cheng Empire, Zhao Tiansha, is waiting outside," a eunuch announced respectfully as he entered the hall.


    "Huh?" The ministers raised their eyebrows.


    This matter was not settled yet.


    "Summon him!" Nie Fancheng ordered.


    "Summon the Crown Prince of the Great Cheng Empire, Zhao Tiansha!"


    Zhong Shan frowned and turned his head. This interruption came at a crucial moment, which was very annoying.


    Soon, a man in ck robes entered the hall.


    The man wore a tight ck robe, with a ck sword at his waist. The sword was slender, but it exuded a chilling aura. His long ck hair draped over his shoulders, and his eyes were bright and piercing. A blood-red me seemed to dance in the center of his forehead. His face was fair and extremely handsome.


    Upon seeing the neer, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted instinctively.


    Kaiyang Sect! Tiansha? The former second-generation disciple of the Kaiyang Sect and master of the Heaven-ying Sword Technique, Tiansha?


    Zhao Tiansha? Tiansha?


    Zhong Shan recognized Zhao Tiansha at a nce, and Zhao Tiansha also recognized Zhong Shan. This was the Zhong Shan he wanted to skin, disembowel, and drink his blood. So it was him. The rumors had only mentioned the name, and he thought it was someone else with the same name. It turned out to be this Zhong Shan. Hmph!


    "Zhao Tiansha greets the Great Li Emperor!" Zhao Tiansha bowed to Nie Fancheng.


    "Hmm!" Nie Fancheng nodded.


    "Crown Prince of the Great Cheng Empire? Why have youe to the Great Li Celestial Dynasty?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "Your Majesty, I am here under the order of my emperor to seek peace with the Great Li Celestial Dynasty," Zhao Tiansha replied.


    "Seek peace?" Nie Fancheng looked puzzled.


    The court buzzed with discussion again. Seek peace? The Great Cheng Empire and the Great Li Celestial Dynasty had been at war for years. What did this mean? Had the emperor of the Great Cheng Empire gone mad?


    "The emperor is willing to submit to the Great Li Celestial Dynasty from now on, and offer the Great Cheng Empire in worship to the Great Li Emperor," Zhao Tiansha said solemnly.


    "Oh?"


    "Wow~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" The court became noisy once more. Surrender? Impossible!


    In his thoughts, Zhong Shan quickly analyzed everything. The Grand Cheng Empire was a neighbor of the Great Li Celestial Dynasty, but their rtionship had always been strained, with continuous wars. Why would they suddenly surrender? No, the Grand Cheng Empire never seemed to have a crown prince. All of the Grand Cheng Emperor''s sons had died. How could a crown prince suddenly appear? Not long ago, the Grand Cheng Emperor had celebrated his 4,000th birthday.


    4,000 years? An Emperor Extreme Realm cultivator''s lifespan is 4,800 years. That means he still has 800 years left.


    "The Grand Cheng Emperor wants to submit to me? Although his lifespan is short, his ambition wouldn''t allow him to submit," Nie Fancheng said in doubt.


    "Reporting to the Great Li Emperor, all of this is because of me," Zhao Tiansha said.


    "Oh?" Nie Fancheng questioned.


    "It was recently confirmed that I am the emperor''s distant descendant and his only bloodline. The emperor, feeling his end approaching, wanted to ensure my safety, so he willingly gave up the Grand Cheng Empire that he founded," Zhao Tiansha exined.


    Upon hearing Zhao Tiansha''s exnation, everyone immediately understood. With the empire''s fall, the crown prince would certainly be hunted down by powerful enemies. To protect his only bloodline, the Grand Cheng Emperor was willing to give up his millennia-old foundation.


    "Very well, I ept his terms," Nie Fancheng dered.


    Given such a situation, how could he refuse? An empire handed over for free, who wouldn''t want it?


    "Reporting to the Great Li Emperor, my emperor also considered my safety. He stated that if the Great Li Emperor were willing to marry one of his princesses to me, the news reaching our capital would immediately result in our empire''s submission to the Great Li Celestial Dynasty," Zhao Tiansha continued.


    Indeed, there was no free lunch in the world. This was the hidden condition of the Grand Cheng Emperor. A princess''s marriage would ensure Zhao Tiansha''s safety, making him a prince consort. This request was not unreasonable; it was fair and logical.


    "Oh? Which princess do you wish to marry?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    Clearly, Nie Fancheng was intrigued. Everyone looked at Zhao Tiansha, waiting for his answer. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan suddenly felt an ominous premonition.


    "The Princess of the Great Li Celestial Dynasty, Princess Ling''er," Zhao Tiansha stated.


    "Wow~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Princess Ling''er? The court erupted again with discussions. The matter of Zhong Shan''s wife was not yet settled, and now another suitor had appeared?


    "Reporting to the Emperor!" Xiaoyao Hou suddenly spoke up.


    "Speak!" Nie Fancheng looked at Xiaoyao Hou.


    "Emperor, I have seen Princess Ling''er multiple times and have always admired her. She is the object of my day and night thoughts. Although she is a princess and holds a noble status, we are both the sixth generation descendants of the Emperor. I humbly request the Emperor to grant me a marriage with her to ease my longing," Xiaoyao Hou said.


    The court was once again in an uproar.


    Another suitor? If this weren''t the court, the ministers would have cried out. Princess Ling''er had such immense charm?


    Nie Fancheng frowned slightly.


    "Reporting to the Emperor!" On the right side of the court, Shaofei Hou suddenly stepped forward.


    "Speak!" Nie Fancheng ordered.


    "Princess Ling''er is gentle and virtuous, lively and adorable, cheerful and generous. Seeing her once left me thinking of her day and night. She is the ideal partner I have always dreamed of. I never dared to harbor any presumptuous thoughts, but now, with so many pursuing her, I cannot give up. I am willing to exchange my past military merits for the Emperor''s blessing in marriage," Shaofei Hou said, shocking everyone.


    "Wow~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    In the court, the ministers were about to go crazy. Again, Princess Ling''er? Four outstanding men were simultaneously seeking the Emperor''s blessing to marry Princess Ling''er?

 Chapter 434: A Wind Rises

    <h4>Chapter 434: A Wind Rises</h4>


    The ming Hall. Upon the Imperial Court.


    The courtiers on both sides of the hall murmured amongst themselves, casting curious nces at the four individuals standing in the center. This was perhaps the most sensational event of the year, if not the century.


    Who were these four people? What contributions had they made to the Great Li Celestial Dynasty? And what were they offering in exchange for Princess Ling''er?


    Zhong Shan presented the elixir of immortality, which the Emperor himself had confirmed could extend life by at least a thousand years. Not only were the courtiers enticed, but even the Emperor himself was surely tempted. A thousand years of life! The life span of a Celestial Emperor was only ten thousand years. After ten thousand years, if they couldn''t ascend to immortality, they would turn to dust. An additional thousand years, a tenth of their life span, perhaps more��how could the Emperor refuse?


    Zhao Tiansha represented the Grand Cheng Empire. Acquiring a whole empire would significantly expand the Great Li Celestial Dynasty''s influence and bring boundless fortune. This, in turn, would strengthen the Celestial Dynasty, broadening the Emperor''s dominion and providing immense benefits. Could the Emperor afford to pass this up?


    Then there was Xiaoyao Hou, the Emperor''s reincarnated elder brother. It could be said that without Xiaoyao Hou''s previous incarnation, there would be no Emperor today. He had raised the Emperor, even sacrificing his own life to save him when they were young. How could the Emperor disregard such profound kinship?


    Lastly, there was Shaofei Hou, a recently risen star in the Great Li Celestial Dynasty, akin to Zhong Shan of the Grand Luo Celestial Dynasty. Shaofei Hou''s intellect was formidable, having recently led the Great Li army to destroy an empire single-handedly. His military achievements were astounding. He, too, sought marriage with Princess Ling''er. The Emperor, known for his fair rewards and punishments, would consider Shaofei Hou''s request carefully.


    The courtiers wore expressions of intrigue. These four men were remarkable, but Princess Ling''er was evidently even more extraordinary to have captivated them so deeply.


    How would the Emperor decide? It was a tough choice. If only a woman could marry four husbands. But, of course, that was impossible.


    Nie Fancheng nced at the four, his initial frown reced with a mischievous smile.


    "Great Li Emperor, please grant my request," Zhong Shan stepped forward and said.


    "Great Li Emperor, please grant my request," Zhao Tiansha followed suit.


    "Emperor, please grant my request," Xiaoyao Hou added.


    "Emperor, please grant my request," Shaofei Hou concluded.


    The four men stood firm, none willing to back down.


    The courtiers were now thoroughly entertained, watching the spectacle unfold. How would the Emperor decide? It was an incredibly difficult choice.


    "Princess Ling''er is, after all, a princess of the Great Li Celestial Dynasty," Nie Fancheng began.


    The hall fell silent as everyone listened intently.


    "A Celestial Princess has the right to choose her own partner," Nie Fancheng continued.


    True, but it depended on who issued the order. While others might not interfere with a princess''s choice, the Emperor was different. In the Great Li Celestial Dynasty, all rules were his to make. He could strip a princess of her title or marry her off as he pleased. He was thew, the heaven.


    "You four are all outstanding talents. However, there is only one Princess Ling''er. To decide who will marry her, we must consider both your abilities and the princess''s feelings," the Emperor dered.


    The four men frowned slightly.


    "I will give you four months. Each of you will undergo two tests: a literary test and a martial test. The literary test will be a battle of wit, and the martial test a battle of arms. The most outstanding among you will be granted the marriage," Nie Fancheng announced.


    With this deration, the matter was settled. The courtiers were once again in awe of the Emperor''s wisdom. If Zhong Shan won, Zhao Tiansha''s failure would be his own. At most, he could marry another princess. Xiaoyao Hou and Shaofei Hou would have to ept the oue. If Zhao Tiansha won, Zhong Shan''s failure would be his own. The Emperor could always find other means to acquire the elixir of immortality.


    "Then may I ask, Great Li Emperor, who will be the judge after the literary and martial trials?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    Indeed, while the martial trial could be fair, the literary trial could be subjective. After all, there was no absolute standard in literary talent.


    "Princess Ling''er will be the judge," Nie Fancheng dered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" the four responded in unison.


    "Great Li Emperor, I have just arrived from the Grand Cheng Empire and have never met Princess Ling''er. Could I meet her first?" Zhao Tiansha immediately requested.


    Upon hearing this, Zhong Shan frowned. The period of memory sealed not only included his rtionship with Ling''er but also Ling''er''s deep admiration for Tiansha before that memory.


    "Emperor, there are some misunderstandings between Ling''er and me. I also hope to clear these misunderstandings and meet with her more," Nie Kuang quickly added.


    The courtiers exchanged nces, feeling speechless. Some misunderstandings? Nie Kuang''s reputation was well known��it wasn''t just a misunderstanding but rather a very poor impression.


    "The partner for Ling''er will surely be among you four. I permit you to pursue Princess Ling''er, but you must not overstep any boundaries before the trials. I will issue a decree that Ling''er meets with each of you once every five days, and she will always have a chaperone," Nie Fancheng stated firmly.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" the four replied in unison.


    Nie Fancheng nodded with satisfaction.


    The courtiers turned their attention to Zhong Shan, anticipating he would present the elixir of immortality. However, Zhong Shan stepped back to stand beside Lin Xiao, remaining silent and feigning ignorance.


    Nie Fancheng nced at Zhong Shan, a faint, inscrutable smile appearing on his face. "Dismissed!" he announced.


    "Dismissed!" echoed the eunuch.


    At the South Ming Tribute Pce


    "Marshal, this is the majesty of a Celestial Dynasty? Such grandeur!" Lin Xiao marveled in recollection.


    "And what of it?" Zhong Shan replied.


    Lin Xiao nodded in agreement. Indeed, it was of little consequence. He hadplete faith that the Great Zheng Imperial Dynasty would one day reach such heights.


    "Marshal, today''s situation seems rather troublesome," Mr. Shi remarked, frowning.


    "Literary and martial trials��who can outmatch the Marshal? The Marshal is the Grand Schr of the Grand Luo Celestial Dynasty. A single ''Man Jiang Hong'' poem astounded the heavens. As for martial prowess, who can rival the Marshal?" Shui Wuhen eximed.


    "No, the real issue is Zhao Tiansha! If I am not mistaken, Zhao Tiansha is the same person who was the second senior disciple of the Kaiyang Sect?" Lin Xiao asked, frowning.


    "Indeed, it is him," Zhong Shan confirmed with a nod.


    "Then that''s problematic. ording to what the Marshal previously mentioned, Princess Ling''er''s memory stops at the point where she admired Tiansha. She has forgotten the Marshal and still admires Tiansha. This is troubling," Lin Xiao said.


    "No matter, I have my ways," Zhong Shan replied, thinking for a moment. He then turned his gaze to the silent zing Fire Wolf General.


    "M-Marshal?" zing Fire asked, looking uneasy.


    "zing Fire, how is your task of wooing Qinghonging along?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Um, it''s going okay," zing Fire replied awkwardly, looking at Zhong Shan with some trepidation as if fearing reprimand.


    "Not good enough. If you continue to ''go okay,'' my n will be ruined. It seems relying solely on you in the short term isn''t enough. From now on, Lin Xiao and Liu Wushuang, you will assist zing Fire with strategies. Ensure that within a month, zing Fire wins over Qinghong," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao and Liu Wushuang immediately replied.


    zing Fire, however, felt extremely frustrated. Nevertheless, there was no alternative��he had no one but himself to me for hisck of progress.


    "Marshal, now that the elixir of immortality has been confirmed, shall we proceed?" Mr. Shi suddenly smiled.


    Indeed, it had been confirmed by the Great Li Emperor Nie Fancheng himself. Could there be any doubt? This revtion would undoubtedly spread throughout the entire city of Li Huo, causing an uproar.


    The elixir of immortality!


    "Yes, proceed ording to the n," Zhong Shan said, his eyes gleaming with determination.


    "Understood!" Mr. Shi immediately responded.


    "Shui Wuhen, lead the 800,000-strong Zhong family army and fully cooperate with Mr. Shi," Zhong Shan added.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen, though slightly puzzled, quickly nodded in agreement.


    The discussions in the court inevitably leaked out. Countless eyes were watching this assembly.


    The elixir of immortality possessed by the Grand Luo envoy Zhong Shan had been authenticated by the Emperor himself. There was no falsehood, and it was undoubtedly genuine, as verified before the entire court.


    This was monumental. Previously, people had only held a curiosity and longing, hoping the elixir was real. Now, with its authenticity confirmed by the Emperor, who would dare to doubt?


    "Is there really an elixir of immortality in this world?" A voice echoed in a Li Huo city tavern.


    "Of course! The Emperor himself confirmed it. The Emperor is among the most powerful beings, nearly touching the realm of immortals. Would he lie? The elixir of immortality! Those in the court are truly fortunate. Just a whiff grants thirty more years of life. I wish I had that chance."


    "Dream on! Zhong Shan is using it to bargain for Princess Ling''er. Ultimately, it will belong to the Emperor."


    "Bah, it''s not decided yet. Four people are vying for the princess, including the formidable Suicidal Prince, the talented Young Marquis, and the wasteful prince ready to trade an empire for her."


    "If I could just see it, just take one whiff, I''d give up ten years of my life."


    "Spit! Ten years? A whiff grants thirty more years. Keep dreaming, kid!"


    The entire city of Li Huo was in an uproar. The news was spreading not just within the city but also radiating outward at a terrifying speed, reaching distant cities.


    The elixir of immortality, the most potent sacred medicine in the world, was real. Li Huo city was about to be a whirlwind of chaos.

 Chapter 435: A Billion Blessings

    <h4>Chapter 435: A Billion Blessings</h4>


    Once the elixir of immortality was confirmed, the entire world reacted!


    The Grand Commerce Guild no longer needed to rack their brains for marketing strategies. Just one word from Nie Fancheng was enough to establish the authenticity of the elixir of immortality. As soon as people heard the news, they flocked to the city of Li Huo. Which sect, empire, or kingdom wouldn''t desire the elixir of immortality?


    Outside the Southern Ming Tribute Hall, the streets were empty. Though it appeared calm, the inns and taverns were packed to the brim with people! Nearly every establishment was overcrowded at this moment.


    Whenever a breeze blew through the streets, numerous divine senses would extend outward.


    Even if they couldn''t consume it, the chance to smell it would be a blessing.


    At this moment, a troop of soldiers emerged from the Southern Ming Tribute Hall.


    Zhong''s Army! What were they doing? Were they leaving?


    The soldiers, under Shui Wuhen''smand, spread out and took positions at different locations.


    Shui Wuhen retrieved a hundred-foot-tall stone monument from his storage bracelet.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The stone monument was nted into the ground, kicking up arge amount of dust.


    Everyone hidden in the shadows focused on the monument. What they saw made them rub their eyes in disbelief. Were they dreaming? What the hell was this?


    Paid Viewing!


    I, Zhong Shan, have obtained a treasure, verified by the Great Li Emperor to extend lifespan by at least a thousand years. I understand the extraordinary nature of this treasure and do not wish to keep it hidden. Starting now, a Viewing Pavilion is set up in the Western Courtyard of the Southern Ming Tribute Hall for heroes of the world to appreciate.


    Each person gets five breaths'' time, queued entry.


    Given my pursuit of Princess Ling''er, as permitted by the Great Li Emperor, I am establishing a paid viewing!


    Each person must pay one top-grade spirit stone and write a blessing for me and Princess Ling''er, then queue for entry!


    Anyone who does not queue, does not follow Zhong''s Army''s arrangements, or causes trouble will result in the pavilion being closed for three days!


    I hope everyone abides by the rules and enjoys the viewing harmoniously! - Zhong Shan


    Seeing the words "paid viewing" on the monument, everyone felt like they were dreaming.


    Anyone else who obtained the elixir of immortality would have hidden it away immediately. What was Zhong Shan doing? Sharing it with the world?


    They couldn''t believe it. Zhong Shan''s brain must have been kicked by a donkey. Just one top-grade spirit stone? That''s it? Nearly everyone in the city could afford that.


    Only one top-grade spirit stone? So anyone could take a look and get a whiff? Five breaths'' time! Writing a blessing? That''s nothing. "Wish you both happiness." Who couldn''t write that?


    In no time, numerous tables were set up outside the Southern Ming Tribute Hall, with brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones all prepared.


    There were a total of four hundred tables, each with a piece of white cloth ready. One top-grade spirit stone and a written blessing could get you in line.


    People were unsure and skeptical, but soon someone approached one of the four hundred tables. Once the first person started, the second quickly followed, then the third. In the blink of an eye, the square in front of the Southern Ming Tribute Hall was filled with four hundred long lines.


    Those who were still watching in hesitation soon panicked and rushed to join the lines, seeing how quickly they were growing.


    The four hundred lines rapidly grew longer, stretching out across multiple streets in no time. Citizens going about their daily business suddenly noticed a long queue forming outside their shops.


    "Hey, Lao Liu,e out and see this! What''s going on? When did these cultivators be so polite? What are they doing?"


    "Isn''t that the sect leaders of the Demon Refining Hall and the Clear Serenity Sect? They used to be at each other''s throats. What are they doing in line together?"


    "Hey, isn''t that Zhang the Thunder Arrow Master? What''s he up to?"


    From the Southern Ming Tribute Hall, the entire area became lively and noisy. People wondered why these notorious individuals were suddenly so well-mannered and standing in line.


    Monks, Taoists, nuns, sect leaders, alchemists, cksmiths, chefs, butchers��what were they all doing?


    "You dare cut in line? Beat him up!" A sudden shout rang out.


    Immediately, hundreds of flying swords shot towards the offender, sending him flying.


    Amidst the chaos, in front of the Southern Ming Tribute Hall, four hundred desks had formed two queues leading inside.


    "Kid, do you even know how to write a blessing? People ahead have already gone in, and you''re wasting our time!" Those in the back grew increasingly anxious.


    Once someone finished writing, they followed the arranged order and joined the two queues leading into the Southern Ming Tribute Hall.


    Given how cheap it was, just one spirit stone, who couldn''t afford it?


    The two lines, under the escort of Zhong''s Army, entered the grand Southern Ming Tribute Hall. Inside a valley, they saw a massive pce, with an entrance in the front and an exit in the back.


    Surrounding it was a ''hollow metal cage'' that extended underground, appearing very sturdy. One could see inside but couldn''t probe it with their divine sense. Inside was the Immortal Elixir.


    "So, this is the elixir of immortality! So eerie!"


    "Yeah, it looks like a baby."


    "This is it! My uncle saw it in the court andter recorded it. This is the elixir of immortality!"


    "I need to smell it more!"


    They started inhaling deeply, and the hall filled with the sound of sniffing.


    "Hurry up, move faster!" Those waiting outside shouted.


    An officer from Zhong''s Army announced, "Alright, alright, time''s up. Others are waiting. One spirit stone only buys you this much time. If you want to see it again, get back in line!"


    The people in front reluctantly left, following the line out through the back door of the Southern Ming Tribute Hall.


    Once outside, they dashed back to the square at the south gate.


    But upon arrival, they were dumbfounded. The lines had extended far out of sight.


    From the Southern Ming Tribute Hall, lines spread like a spider web in all directions. The four hundred lines kept growing rapidly, extending farther and farther.


    In no time, the end of the lines couldn''t be seen.


    Those who exited the hall hurriedly rushed to the end of the line, only to find it had stretched nearly a hundred miles. How long was this line? Would they die waiting?


    If they didn''t queue up, another group would take their ce immediately.


    In just one day, the entire city of Li Huo seemed to be nothing but lines.


    No promotion was needed; these four hundred long queues were the best advertisement. The queues stretched from street to street, causing a massivemotion.


    Many powerful figures flew in from all corners of the world, and upon entering Li Huo Holy City, they looked around curiously.


    Among them was a group of people dressed in white.


    "Senior Brother, it seems the Immortal Elixir is real. We should gather more information. Our master will arrive soon, right?" a woman said.


    "Yes, the Immortal Elixir is something our Burning Sound Valley must obtain!" the man beside her said with a determined and cold expression.


    "Huh, what are those people doing? Why are they lining up?"


    "Uh, that... that''s the sect leader in line?" the woman eximed in surprise.


    "And the three great elders!"


    As more and more powerful figures gathered, the four hundred queues continued to grow crazily.


    Cause trouble? Do you want to face the wrath of these four hundred queues?


    Inside the Li Huo Holy Pce.


    There were only two people, the old eunuch who had once summoned Zhong Shan, and Nie Fanchen.


    "Your Majesty, this is the situation," the old eunuch said, looking puzzled.


    "Paid viewing? Haha, good one, Gu Shentong, sending me such a troublemaker!" Nie Fanchen said with a strange smile.


    At the Xiaoyao Hou''s mansion.


    Xiaoyao Hou looked at the people in front of him and said, "What''s going on? Where is everyone? Where did they all disappear to?"


    "Lord Hou, they asked for leave earlier."


    "Leave? How could so many people leave at once? Where did they go?" Xiaoyao Hou asked angrily.


    "They went to line up."


    "Line up for what?"


    "For the paid viewing organized by the Grand Luo envoy..." the servant quickly exined.


    Xiaoyao Hou: "..."


    At the Princess Ling''er''s residence.


    Nie Qingqing was with Ling''er.


    "Ling''er, did you hear the Emperor''s instructions clearly?"


    "Really, I have to meet with those four every five days?" Ling''er pouted, looking reluctant.


    "The Emperor''s orders must be followed. Don''t worry, I''ll apany you," Nie Qingqing said.


    "Alright, fine."


    "But do you know who these four people are?" Nie Qingqing asked.


    Ling''er frowned.


    "There''s Zhong Shan, Xiaoyao Hou, Shaofei Hou, and Zhao Tiansha!"


    Ling''er looked quite annoyed.


    "There are two things I need to tell you," Nie Qingqing said.


    "Oh?" Ling''er asked, puzzled.


    "One is Zhao Tiansha. Do you know who Zhao Tiansha is?"


    "I don''t know, I''ve never heard of him."


    "He is Tian Sha, the former second-generation senior brother of the Kaiyang Sect."


    "The senior brother!" Tian Ling''er eximed with excitement.


    The senior brother? The senior brother is here to propose? Ling''er''s face showed a trace of joy.


    "And then there''s Zhong Shan."


    At the mention of Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er''s excitement suddenly faded. The prior excitement seemed to vanish inexplicably, making Tian Ling''er feel odd.


    "Zhong Shan? What about him now?" Tian Ling''er asked, pretending to be indifferent.


    "The Emperor has allowed these four to pursue you. Now, it''s known throughout the world. Zhong Shan is very attached to the lost memories you have, so he''s currently in Li Huo Holy City, organizing a ''Million Blessings Scroll''," Nie Qingqing said.


    "A Million Blessings Scroll?" Tian Ling''er looked confused.


    "Yes, he''s asking millions of people to write a blessing for you and him," Nie Qingqing said, a hint of excitement shing in her eyes.


    "A Million Blessings Scroll? That sounds difficult," Tian Ling''er said, inexplicably worried about Zhong Shan.


    A Million Blessings Scroll? How many people would that take?


    "Do you think the Zhong Shan in those stories is smart?" Nie Qingqing asked with a smile.


    "Yes, the Zhong Shan in the stories is very clever, but a Million Blessings Scroll? Millions of people? Didn''t the Emperor say they only have four months? How many people can he gather to write?" Tian Ling''er doubted.


    "Gather? He doesn''t need to gather them. Right now, in Li Huo Holy City, people are fighting to write. They can''t wait to do it," Nie Qingqing said, shaking her head with a bitter smile.

 Chapter 436: Fishing by the Misty Sea

    <h4>Chapter 436: Fishing by the Misty Sea</h4>


    "Gather? There''s no need for that. Right now, in the Sacred Capital of Lihuo, everyone is fighting for the chance to write their blessings. People are practically tripping over each other to get the opportunity!" Nie Qingqing shook her head with a wry smile.


    Indeed, outside the Nanning Tribute Hall, it wasn''t a matter of finding people to write blessings; it was a rush to be the one writing them. Those who couldn''t write were filled with endless resentment, and the queue behind them was unprecedentedly fierce, all for the chance to write a single blessing!


    When Nie Qingqing recounted the situation outside to Ling''er, Ling''er''s small mouth formed an ''O'' shape in astonishment.


    Four hundred tables were set up, each with someone organizing the cloths full of blessings, which were then handed to the tailors to be sewn together piece by piece.


    "Are there really that many people?" Tian Ling''er asked, somewhat unsure.


    "Take a look from the floating ind at the four hundred long dragons in the Sacred Capital of Lihuo, and you''ll understand," Nie Qingqing said with deep emotion.


    In the Nanning Tribute Hall, Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse stood not far from the Treasure Viewing Hall.


    "Everything is proceeding in an orderly fashion," Mr. Corpse said.


    "Good. From now on, the safety of this ''Elixir of Immortality'' will depend entirely on you, Mr. Corpse," Zhong Shan said.


    "Your Majesty, rest assured. The bodies of the two Bodhisattvas are beneath the ''Elixir of Immortality.'' Unless it''s an emperor-level expert, no one can take it," Mr. Corpse replied.


    "Hmm. You just need to handle those below the emperor level. As for those above, Nie Fanchan and the pce''s other experts will take care of them," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," Mr. Corpse responded.


    Countless strong individuals continued to arrive at the Sacred Capital of Lihuo, standing in awe and lining up in a daze. The reaction outside was now beyond words.


    Meanwhile, the day for the four suitors to meet Princess Ling''er had arrived.


    The location was to the north of the Sacred Capital of Lihuo, by the Misty Sea, where they would apany the princess in fishing.


    Fishing��this was an idea that Nie Qingqing hade up with after much thought. Princess Ling''er, truth be told, had a fragile and endearing image. She wasn''t particrly interested in music, chess, calligraphy, painting, or cultivation. Hosting a banquet for the four suitors to eat and drink would quickly bore Ling''er. Moreover, Nie Qingqing remembered a story from Zhong Shan about Ling''er fishing at his home.


    Zhong Shan received Nie Qingqing''s "secret report" and was the first to arrive at the Misty Sea.


    It was an ind sea! At one corner of the sea, the waves surged, yet this corner remained rtively calm. The shore was lined with numerous pces, clearly just set up.


    When Zhong Shan arrived, Ling''er and Nie Qingqing were directing subordinates to set up various tforms and sunshades.


    Zhong Shan brought three people with him: General zing Fire Wolf, Lin Xiao, and Liu Wushuang.


    Upon arrival, Zhong Shan immediately spotted Qing Hong looking bored in the distance.


    "zing Fire!" Zhong Shan kicked General zing Fire Wolf.


    General zing Fire Wolf was still a bit hesitant.


    "Commander, don''t worry. I''m here!" Lin Xiao said.


    "Hmm!" Zhong Shan nodded. With Lin Xiao helping zing Firee up with strategies, Zhong Shan felt relieved. Even if zing Fire was still clueless, Lin Xiao could create opportunities for them.


    In the distance, Nie Qingqing noticed Zhong Shan immediately.


    "Ling''er, there''s not much left to do. Go test the fishing rods first. You don''t want to catch nothingter!" Nie Qingqing said.


    "Okay!" Ling''er quickly ran to a long pavilion by the sea. Inside were rows of seats, with long fishing rods extending into the sea before them.


    Ling''er sat down and grabbed a fishing rod, starting to fish.


    Grasping the fishing rod, Ling''er suddenly felt a wave of familiarity. In her memory, she had never fished before, so why did this feel so familiar? Could it be true, as Zhong Shan had said, that she had fished in the pond at his home in the past?


    Just like back then, Tian Ling''er fished for a while without catching anything. Watching the fish swimzily in the sea, she started to curse at them in frustration, just like she did before.


    The vermilion bird on her shoulder tilted its head, looking puzzled as it watched Ling''er''s nose wrinkle in irritation.


    "That''s not how you fish!"


    Just as Ling''er was about to throw the rod in frustration, a gentle voice came from beside her, a voice that felt familiar, like someone speaking to her in a dream. She turned her head and saw Zhong Shan''s smiling face.


    Seeing Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er''s face turned red. She clearly didn''t know how to respond.


    Zhong Shan, understanding her embarrassment, didn''t say much. He simply picked up a fishing rod and said, "Follow my lead."


    Zhong Shan skillfully reced the hook, set the bait, and cast the line, waiting patiently.


    Ling''er mimicked Zhong Shan''s actions step by step.


    "Fishing requires patience. If you''re anxious, the fish won''t be. But if you''re calm, they''ll get anxious, and when they do, they''ll bite the hook in a frenzy," Zhong Shan exined with a smile.


    "Really?" Ling''er asked, half-believing, half-doubting. The little vermilion bird on her shoulder tilted its head, looking at Zhong Shan with a puzzled expression.


    "Of course!" Zhong Shan replied confidently.


    Zhong Shan patiently taught Ling''er, and after a while, it happened.


    "Oh, oh, oh, the fish is biting! The fish is biting!" Ling''er suddenly eximed, grabbing the fishing rod with excitement.


    The fishing rod moved suddenly, pulling at Ling''er''s hand.


    Excited, Ling''er quickly reeled in the line. Soon, arge sea fish was pulled out of the water, flopping energetically on the beach. Several guards quickly came over to hold it down, while Ling''er was overjoyed��she had caught a fish!


    Zhong Shan watched with a satisfied smile.


    "Zhong Shan, your method is amazing!" Ling''er praised in her excitement.


    In the distance, under the pce, Nie Qingqing watched Ling''er''s excitement with a hint of a smile in her eyes.


    Watching therge fish being captured by her guards and ced into a nearby small pond, Ling''er was filled with joy. Sure, catching fish with spells would have been easy for cultivators��just a scan with divine sense and a spell would bring up a fish��but Ling''er hadn''t used any spells at all. How could she not be excited? It was like a billionaire choosing between buying a wife or winning her heart through genuine feelings��which would the billionaire cherish more?


    As Ling''er was basking in her joy, a group of figures flew in from a distance.


    All dressed in ck robes, about fifty people in total, led by none other than the Crown Prince of Dacheng, Zhao Tiansha!


    Zhao Tiansha and his entourage descended from the sky, and Ling''er''s attention shifted from the fish to Zhao Tiansha, her eyes lighting up with excitement and admiration.


    "Senior Brother!" Ling''er called out joyfully.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan also walked over slowly.


    "Ling''er, we meet again!" Zhao Tiansha said warmly. Clearly, he had learned about Tian Ling''er''s amnesia, so he was unusually enthusiastic.


    Senior Brother smiled at me? Ling''er felt a wave of happiness and a shiver of delight.


    Suddenly, she saw Zhong Shan walking over, and noticed the slightly forlorn look in his eyes.


    In that instant, her excited heart clenched, as if a giant hand had gripped her heart tightly. A wave of inexplicable sadness washed away her previous happiness.


    "Greetings, Princess Qingqing!" Zhao Tiansha called out to Nie Qingqing, who had approached.


    "Greetings, Crown Prince of Dacheng," Nie Qingqing responded with a bow.


    "Zhong Shan! We meet again!" Zhao Tiansha said, looking at Zhong Shan with a hint of provocation.


    Originally, Zhao Tiansha pursued Ling''er for her sake, but now, his twisted mind was driven by a new determination��to pursue Ling''er because of Zhong Shan. His hatred for Zhong Shan was deep-seated.


    He wished he could skin Zhong Shan alive, pull out his tendons, and drink his blood!


    Decades ago, two women who should have been his ended up leaving him because of Zhong Shan. Zhao Tiansha had sworn revenge, not only physically but also mentally. Ling''er had be Zhong Shan''s wife? Hmph, he would take her back right in front of Zhong Shan.


    Zhao Tiansha''s hatred was deeply ingrained. He hade to collect his debt.


    "Senior Brother!" Zhong Shan greeted with a smile.


    Zhao Tiansha frowned slightly, his expression strange. Ling''er might not know, but surely Zhong Shan knew he had been expelled from the Kaiyang Sect?


    At that moment, another group of thirty people flew in from the distance.


    Leading them was Nie Kuang, the Carefree Marquis! Behind him were twenty-nine supreme experts, the same emperor-level experts they had encountered during the Great Jin Dynasty.


    "Ling''er!" The Carefree Marquisnded and immediately shed a sinister smile.


    Ling''er''s face showed disgust, and she ignored him.


    "Ling''er, I know you don''t have a good impression of me, but those are just rumors! You wouldn''t believe such nder, would you?" The Carefree Marquis pleaded, looking innocent.


    Ling''er continued to ignore him.


    Zhong Shan nced at the Carefree Marquis and said, "Carefree Marquis, it''s been a while."


    The Carefree Marquis''s expression tightened upon seeing Zhong Shan, his eyes showing a hint of fear. After all, no one had ever dared to bully him since he was young��no one except Zhong Shan, who had beaten him twice. The psychological shadow was indelible.


    "Hmm!" The Carefree Marquis responded deeply.


    Hmph! So Ling''er is your wife? I''ll win her over and repay you a hundredfold, a thousandfold for everything you did to me. I''ll make sure you and her can neither live nor die in peace!


    Zhong Shan, Zhao Tiansha, and the Carefree Marquis��three out of four suitors had arrived. Only one was left.


    As everyone wondered, a small ck dot rapidly approached from the distance.


    There were only two people. One was the Marquis of Soaring Flight.


    Seeing the other person, Zhong Shan felt his mind go nk. The Marquis of Soaring Flight was too audacious!


    In the Marquis''s arms was a woman.


    No, a girl��his daughter, Bing Bing.


    The Marquis of Soaring Flight brought his daughter to pursue Ling''er?


    "Dad, is it here?" Bing Bing asked excitedly.


    "Yes," the Marquis nodded, showing a wry smile. Clearly, he spoiled his daughter too much.


    Soon, the Marquis of Soaring Flightnded in front of the four.


    "Greetings, Princess Ling''er! Greetings, Princess Qingqing!" the Marquis of Soaring Flight said uponnding.


    "Marquis, this is...?" Princess Qingqing asked curiously.


    "He''s my dad!" Bing Bing answered cheerfully.


    Dad? Everyone was stunned. The Marquis of Soaring Flight truly dared to do anything!


    "Tsk tsk, the Marquis of Soaring Flight really has some nerve. Pursuing Ling''er and bringing his daughter along?" the Carefree Marquis mocked.


    "Yes, so what?" The Marquis of Soaring Flight replied disdainfully to the Carefree Marquis.

 Chapter 437: Leading the Way

    <h4>Chapter 437: Leading the Way</h4>


    Seeing Shao Feihou''s disdain, Xiaoyao Hou''s eyes turned cold!


    "Let''s go, into the Fishing Pavilion!" said Nie Qingqing.


    Nie Qingqing led Ling''er ahead. Four men followed behind them, along with a little girl named Bingbing.


    Walking at the back, Zhong Shan happened to overhear the conversation between the two.


    "Bingbing, why are you clinging to me today?" Shao Feihou whispered.


    "Nothing really, just wanted toe out and y with Dad. It''s so boring at the mansion," Bingbing said, pouting.


    "Bingbing, you''re being naughty!"


    "Really, Dad, I just wanted to see what kind of woman you''re pursuing."


    "Uh? How did you know I came to pursue a woman today? Who told you?" Shao Feihou''s face turned stern.


    Seeing Shao Feihou''s serious expression, Bingbing shrank back a little and said, "Mom did!"


    "Her?" Shao Feihou''s expression became much moreplicated. He sighed deeply and stopped troubling the little girl.


    They arrived at the Fishing Pavilion, the long pavilion where Zhong Shan and Ling''er had previously sat.


    Tian Ling''er was arranged to sit on the far right, with Nie Qingqing next to her. After all, the emperor had instructed that there should be no overstepping boundaries before the civil and martial tests.


    People could present treasures, flowers, or speak sweet words, but they couldn''t overstep, hence Nie Qingqing sat between them and Tian Ling''er.


    Next to Nie Qingqing was Zhao Tiansha! Because of Tian Ling''er''s request, Zhao Tiansha sat closest to her, followed by Xiaoyao Hou, then Shao Feihou and his daughter, with Zhong Shan sitting at the end.


    "Alright, apany Ling''er fishing. No magic allowed, use your own skills!" Nie Qingqing said.


    Xiaoyao Hou grabbed a fishing rod and looked at it. What is this thing? Fishing?


    Tiansha and Shao Feihou were also puzzled, looking at the rods. But since their intentions were not really about fishing, they didn''t mind. The key was the conversation during fishing.


    Ling''er quickly baited her hook. Tiansha, feeling a bit awkward, soon understood and baited his hook too. Xiaoyao Hou and Shao Feihou, not quite getting it, were still figuring it out.


    Shao Feihou''s daughter was the quickest to understand. While Shao Feihou was examining the rod, she had already baited his hook.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~"


    Ling''er cast her line.


    Tiansha quickly imitated and cast his line. Xiaoyao Hou, without baiting his hook, also hurriedly cast his line.


    Just as Shao Feihou was about to cast his line.


    "Dad, you''re doing it wrong!" The little girl said, sounding like a small adult.


    Shao Feihou, reprimanded by his daughter, touched his nose with a wry smile. Who told him to spoil his daughter so much?


    With Bingbing''s guidance, Shao Feihou finally cast his line.


    "Tsk tsk, Shao Feihou is really fighting alongside his daughter! I wish I had such a daughter," Xiaoyao Hou mocked from the side.


    Shao Feihou was about to retort, but the little girl beat him to it.


    "Dad, ignore him. He didn''t even bait his hook. He won''t catch anything even by tomorrow unless a blind fish bites!" The little girl said disdainfully.


    Xiaoyao Hou, left speechless, red at the little girl.


    The fishing began. Now was the time to impress Ling''er.


    Fishing and fishing!


    "Plop~~~~~~"


    Tian Ling''er was the first to pull a fish out of the water.


    "Caught it, caught it!" Tian Ling''er excitedly pulled the fish to the shore. A group of guards quickly removed the fish from the hook.


    "Ling''er, you''re amazing!" Zhao Tiansha promptly praised her.


    With Zhao Tiansha''spliment, Tian Ling''er felt overjoyed.


    "It''s nothing, just luck," Ling''er modestly replied, clearly pleased.


    "Yes, Ling''er, you really are a great fisher. We haven''t caught anything yet, and you''ve already caught one. It''s quite impressive," Xiaoyao Hou added in praise.


    Hearing Xiaoyao Hou''s awkwardpliment, everyone couldn''t help butugh. Tian Ling''er gave a somewhat forced smile in response.


    "Princess Ling''er, you must have fished a lot before to be this skilled and catch one so quickly, right?" Shao Feihou asked, full of admiration.


    Shao Feihou''s words were tactful, posing a question while also expressing amazement at Tian Ling''er''s skills.


    At this moment, Tian Ling''er nced at Zhong Shan, who was sitting quietly at the edge. Had she fished a lot before? No, she had never caught one until now. It was Zhong Shan who had just taught her how to fish. Without him, she wouldn''t have caught a fish, let alone been the first to catch one.


    "Impressive!" Zhong Shan simply gave a thumbs up.


    To Ling''er, that thumbs up felt inexplicably heartwarming.


    "Dad, a fish is biting! Pull it up, quick!" Bingbing eximed, pping her hands excitedly.


    "Plop~~~~~"


    The second fish emerged from the water, caught by Shao Feihou.


    The fishing continued.


    Soon, Ling''er caught her fourth fish, Tiansha caught two, Shao Feihou caught three, and Nie Qingqing caught two.


    Only Xiaoyao Hou and Zhong Shan hadn''t caught any fish yet. Xiaoyao Hou kept pulling up his hook, finding nothing, putting it back in, pulling it up again, and finding nothing. He was bing increasingly anxious and restless, though he found somefort in Zhong Shan''s simrck of sess.


    Zhong Shan, however, kept pulling his line back and forth without lifting it from the water.


    After her initial excitement, Tian Ling''er began observing everyone''s progress. Seeing Zhong Shan hadn''t caught any fish puzzled her. Zhong Shan had taught her how to fish, so how could he be this bad?


    As everyone gradually improved, they began catching more fish.


    "Dad, look, he hasn''t caught a single fish!" Bingbing pointed at Xiaoyao Hou,ughing.


    Obviously, it was time for revenge. Children remember slights well.


    Xiaoyao Hou felt frustrated. Just moments ago, he had mocked Shao Feihou, but now Shao Feihou had caught his eighth fish.


    "Don''t worry, just take your time," Princess Qingqing said with a smile.


    Tian Ling''er also giggled from the side, further irritating Xiaoyao Hou.


    "Look, Zhong Shan hasn''t caught any fish either!" Xiaoyao Hou retorted, annoyed.


    "Him? He''s caught plenty," Bingbing said with the confidence of a fishing expert.


    Everyone was stunned by Bingbing''s im.


    "Really!" Bingbing stamped her foot when she saw their disbelief.


    Seeing the cute little girl, Zhong Shan smiled and said, "Bingbing is right. Let me prove it to you."


    With that, Zhong Shan lifted his fishing rod.


    "Plop~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    What everyone saw was a truly astonishing sight.


    Zhong Shan''s fishing rod had an exceptionally long line, with over a dozen branch lines and hooks attached. When he lifted the rod, twelve fish dangled from it, wriggling energetically.


    "Wow!" Tian Ling''er eximed with delight.


    The sight of twelve lively fish flopping onto the shore made Xiaoyao Hou''s face flush with embarrassment. The guards quickly removed the fish from the hooks for Zhong Shan. In an instant, Zhong Shan had caught the most fish.


    "What kind of fishing line is that?" Xiaoyao Houined, attributing Zhong Shan''s sess to the special line.


    "There are simr fishing lines in the tackle box next to you," Nie Qingqing remarked disdainfully.


    "With so many hooks, of course it''s easier to catch fish!" Xiaoyao Hou protested.


    The little girl Bingbing chimed in, "It''s not like that. Those lines are actually harder to use! My mom never caught so many at once! You didn''t catch any fish because you were too impatient. My mom always says, ''An impatient fisherman never catches anything!''"


    Xiaoyao Hou, scolded by the little girl''s rhyming wisdom, grew furious and threw his rod to the ground.


    "Being cultivators, we''re imitating mortal fishing��what''s the point of this?" Xiaoyao Hou ranted irrationally.


    "Xiaoyao Hou!" Nie Qingqing raised an eyebrow.


    "I''m done fishing too!" Zhao Tiansha shook his head.


    Apart from Xiaoyao Hou, Zhao Tiansha had caught the fewest fish, so he stood by Xiaoyao Hou, despite his poor conduct. Zhao Tiansha showed his disdain for fishing, knowing that if Xiaoyao Hou was excluded, Zhong Shan would stand out alone.


    Seeing Zhao Tiansha give up, Tian Ling''er pouted, feeling slightly disappointed. Fishing had been so enjoyable, and she had never caught so many fish before. This feeling was hard for others to understand.


    But with Zhao Tiansha quitting, Tian Ling''er reluctantly put her rod down, saying, "Alright, I''ll stop too."


    "Why stop?" Bingbing asked curiously.


    The atmosphere grew awkward.


    Nie Qingqing, skilled at handling such moments, looked up at the sky and said, "It''s almost noon. How about this: each of you use your magic to catch one fish, then, along with your subordinates, prepare a dish for Ling''er to taste?"


    "Using magic?" Zhao Tiansha questioned.


    "Yes, each person is allowed only one move to catch a fish. Then, prepare a fish banquet for Ling''er to judge," Nie Qingqing exined with a smile.


    Zhao Tiansha looked at his longsword and nodded confidently, "Alright."


    "Good idea, Princess Qingqing always has the best ideas," Xiaoyao Hou quickly agreed.


    "You couldn''t out-fish us, so now you want to use magic," Bingbing muttered disdainfully.


    "Fine by me," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Ling''er, let''s watch," Nie Qingqing said, taking Ling''er''s hand.


    With a wave of Nie Qingqing''s hand, the long pavilion they were sitting in moved back, clearing a space by the shore.


    "Who goes first?" Nie Qingqing asked.


    "I''ll go!" Xiaoyao Hou stepped forward.


    "I brought some osmanthus cakes, everyone, have a taste!" Zhong Shan said with a smile, taking out severalrge boxes.


    Osmanthus cakes? Everyone was slightly taken aback. Was he really here for a pic?


    Only Tian Ling''er and Nie Qingqing understood the significance of the cakes. It was Zhong Shan''s way of subtly expressing his feelings for Ling''er. From teaching her how to fish, Zhong Shan had always been ahead. No matter how perfectly others praised her, it always turned into a tribute to Zhong Shan. Now, by bringing out the symbolic cakes, Zhong Shan once again led the way.


    Seemingly doing nothing ostentatious, Zhong Shan''s gentle, unobtrusive actions deeply moved Ling''er.

 Chapter 438: The Four Contestants

    <h4>Chapter 438: The Four Contestants</h4>


    "Osmanthus cake? I want some, I want some!" Bingbing eximed happily.


    Bingbing broke the awkwardness, and Zhong Shan handed out the cakes to everyone. Shao Feihou took a box, Nie Qingqing took one, and Tian Ling''er also took one.


    "No need," Zhao Tiansha said, raising an eyebrow.


    "Hmm, it''s delicious, really delicious!" Bingbing said, smiling from ear to ear. Seeing his daughter happy, Shao Feihou nodded to Zhong Shan in appreciation.


    Zhao Tiansha watched coldly as Tian Ling''er, holding the osmanthus cake, felt a swirl of emotions but began to eat carefully.


    In the distance, Xiaoyao Hou had already reached the seashore. He looked at the vast ocean before him, and with a sudden curve of his right finger, he pointed forward. Instantly, a red light shot from his fingertip deep into the ocean.


    The group watched as a red glow emerged from the sea floor, revealing a massive fiery wheel slowly rotating, as if the ocean floor was set aze, creating a spectacr underwater volcanic eruption.


    "What''s that?" Tian Ling''er asked in slight amazement.


    "Nirvana Fire Wheel, I didn''t expect Xiaoyao Hou to master such a technique," Nie Qingqing said with a frown.


    Nirvana Fire Wheel? Zhong Shan immediately thought of the legendary move attributed to Nie Fancheng. It seemed Nie Fancheng had indeed favored Xiaoyao Hou, even passing down this powerful technique.


    The Nirvana Fire Wheel was known to be an incredibly powerful move, where the wheel symbolized the cycle of yin and yang. However, it seemed Xiaoyao Hou hadn''t fully mastered it.


    "Bubbling!" "Bubbling!"..... The sea in front of them began to boil furiously, creatingrge bubbles as the water temperature rose rapidly.


    Boiling the sea with a single finger! What a monstrous technique.


    Zhong Shan watched the sea coldly. This move had immense power, enough to threaten an Imperial Extreme Realm expert. If Xiaoyao Hou had used this move in their previous fight, the oue might have been different.


    However, Zhong Shan wasn''t overly concerned. He could see that this technique required time, and Xiaoyao Hou hadn''t yet achievedplete control over it.


    The boiling sea was a grand spectacle. As the water boiled, fish floated belly-up to the surface, some already cooked.


    Feeling triumphant, Xiaoyao Hou smiled slightly and then reached out to grab arge fish, about three meters long, that was remarkably heat-resistant and still alive.


    He tossed the fish to his Imperial Extreme Realm subordinates and walked back, arrogantly saying, "I''m sorry for cooking so many fish. You can pick one here; I don''t mind, hahahaha!"


    Tian Ling''er felt a wave of disgust at Xiaoyao Hou''s arrogance.


    "Hmph!" Zhao Tiansha snorted coldly, clearly annoyed by Xiaoyao Hou''s condescension.


    Zhao Tiansha stood up and walked towards the sea.


    Xiaoyao Hou had only boiled a portion of the sea, leavingrge areas untouched. The temperature difference between the hot and cold parts of the sea caused water currents to change, leading to huge waves. The cooler water spread from the bottom, rapidly merging and discing the hot water.


    As the waves settled, the temperature of the sea quickly dropped, and the dead fish floated away while new fish were carried in by the currents.


    Zhao Tiansha stood at the shore, coldly gazing at the ocean. The group watched from behind, and Xiaoyao Hou sneered, clearly looking down on Zhao Tiansha.


    Zhao Tiansha''s eyes narrowed as he prepared to demonstrate his own formidable skills.


    Zhao Tiansha grasped the hilt of his sword, his fingers tracing a precise path, and his form momentarily tensed.


    In the distance, Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes. This technique? Zhong Shan recognized it immediately.


    The Sky-Splitting Sword Technique! It gathers power to its peak and releases it in a powerful burst of sword energy, a move that pierces through any defense.


    "Shing~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A powerful white light shed.


    Zhao Tiansha''s sword was drawn and then sheathed in an instant.


    Everyone present couldn''t help but be taken aback.


    "What a powerful move. It can actually threaten an Imperial Extreme Realm expert," Nie Qingqing immediatelymented in awe.


    The surrounding Imperial Extreme Realm experts were stunned. It wasn''t that they couldn''t produce such power, but Zhao Tiansha''s cultivation was only at the early Fusion Stage. Rumor had it he had just broken through beforeing to the Great Li Dynasty. A Fusion Stage move that could threaten an Imperial Extreme Realm expert? What kind of monstrous technique was this?


    Threatening an Imperial Extreme Realm expert was one thing, but the key was its effect.


    With a single sword draw, the entire sea was cleaved in two.


    At least a thousand miles of ocean split into a massive chasm, the water rushing to either side, creating an empty space that extended to the ocean floor.


    The thousand-mile chasm was an awe-inspiring sight, with water on both sides like towering waterfalls, held back by the overwhelming sword energy, unable to close.


    Too powerful!


    One sword to split the sea! A thousand-mile chasm!


    Immediately, on both sides of this massive chasm, the exposed ocean floor revealed countless sea fish, like a giant aquarium, all clearly visible.


    Zhao Tiansha extended his hand and summoned arge fish, about a foot long, and tossed it to his subordinates. He then turned and walked back.


    As Zhao Tiansha walked back, the ocean waters on either side surged back towards the center, creating a towering thirty-foot wave, stretching for a thousand miles, an incredibly majestic sight.


    "Wow, Dad, you''ve met your match," Bingbing eximed in amazement.


    Tian Ling''er, watching the dashing Zhao Tiansha, was filled with excitement and joy. She instinctively wanted to p in delight but suddenly realized she was holding something��the osmanthus cake. She quickly popped it into her mouth to free her hands.


    But as the sweet, soft cake melted in her mouth, Tian Ling''er''s heart felt a sudden pang, as if the surge of emotion had been dampened. Osmanthus cake?


    Tian Ling''er unconsciously nced at Zhong Shan, feeling a mix of emotions she couldn''t quite describe. Why was she feeling this way? Why couldn''t she control her emotions? Could Zhong Shan''s words really be true?


    Xiaoyao Hou boiled the sea with a single finger!


    Zhao Tiansha split the sea with a single sword!


    Both were extraordinary feats. Catching a fish hardly justified such effort, but for these four, it wasn''t just about the fish; it was about outdoing each other.


    Boiling the sea with a single finger and splitting the sea with a single sword��both were impressive techniques, grand in scale, and equally matched. How would the remaining two fare?


    "Dad, it''s your turn. You must outdo them!" Bingbing urged Shao Feihou.


    Shao Feihou looked at his daughter, smiling awkwardly. "Alright, alright, you sit here."


    "Mm, I''ll cheer for you!" Bingbing nodded obediently.


    Shao Feihou stood up and walked out.


    "Uncle, do you have any more...?" Bingbing asked Zhong Shan immediately after Shao Feihou left.


    Seeing Bingbing''s cute expression, Zhong Shan smiled slightly and took out five or six more boxes of osmanthus cake, saying, "All for you!"


    "Thank you, Uncle!" Bingbing happily gathered the boxes of osmanthus cake in her arms. As she looked at Zhong Shan, her eyes sparkled as if she had thought of something.


    Everyone turned their attention to Shao Feihou, knowing his intelligence and formidable strength. They were curious about what kind of spectacle he would create.


    Shao Feihou walked to the seashore and suddenly took out a small bottle, pouring a purple liquid into the sea. He then put the bottle away and stood at the edge of the water.


    "What is Shao Feihou doing?" Xiaoyao Hou frowned.


    The purple liquid dissolved into the sea, disappearing quickly.


    Suddenly, "ssh," a fish leaped onto the shore.


    Everyone''s eyes widened in surprise. What was happening? How did a fish leap onto the shore?


    No, it wasn''t just one fish. The sea became alive with movement as more and more fish swam towards the shore, thousands of them. In no time, tens of thousands of fish were rushing towards the spot where the purple liquid had been poured.


    The scene was magnificent. Within moments, the coastline was packed with fish, as if responding to Shao Feihou''s call.


    Fish were being pushed onto the shore. In no time, arge pile of fish umted.


    "Wow, wow, wow!" Bingbing pped her hands excitedly.


    The spectacle of tens of thousands of fish was incredibly powerful and awe-inspiring. Although itcked the shy techniques of boiling or splitting the sea, the ability to summon so many fish was equally impressive.


    Among the multitude of fish, Shao Feihou quickly selected arge yellow fish, scooped it into a bucket, and brought it over.


    In the distance, the remaining fish slowly dispersed as the purple liquid was consumed.


    What was that substance that made the fish so eager?


    "Dad, fire stick, magic stick!" Bingbing mumbled through a mouthful of osmanthus cake.


    Seeing the pile of osmanthus cake boxes in front of Bingbing, Shao Feihou shook his head with a wry smile and nodded to Zhong Shan in gratitude. This daughter was really a handful.


    Boiling the sea with a single finger, splitting the sea with a single sword, and now the spectacle of tens of thousands of fish!


    Today had seen so many miracles. The surrounding guards watched with wide eyes, knowing these stories would be bragging material when they returned to Lihuo Holy City.


    Now it was the turn of Zhong Shan from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. How would hepare?


    Everyone looked expectantly at Zhong Shan, the most inconspicuous of the group.


    When it was his turn, Zhong Shan stood up with a calm smile and walked to the sea.


    Catching a fish? For this first four-waypetition, Zhong Shan needed to achieve the best result to surpass the other three. This would enhance his stature in Ling''er''s eyes.


    Reaching the seashore, Zhong Shan gazed at the vast ocean and narrowed his eyes slightly, as if making a significant decision. He took a deep breath and slowly crouched down, gently stirring the water with his hand.


    "What is he doing? Catching fish by hand?" Xiaoyao Hou mocked disdainfully.


    Everyone watched Zhong Shan with puzzled expressions. What was he doing, appearing to use the most primitive method of catching fish by hand? What was he up to?

 Chapter 439: Billions of Fish Dancing Madly

    <h4>Chapter 439: Billions of Fish Dancing Madly</h4>


    No one knew what Zhong Shan was doing, only seeing him extend his hand into the seawater and gently wave his palm. But everyone knew Zhong Shan wouldn''t do anything useless, so what was he actually doing?


    As everyone pondered, suddenly:


    "Bang ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A fish leaped out of the water, then fell back in.


    Everyone frowned, thinking it was just a coincidence, but then:


    "Bang ~ Bang ~ Bang ~ Bang ~"


    Seven or eight more fish jumped out. Now, it didn''t seem like a coincidence anymore.


    The next moment, more and more fish began to leap out of the water.


    Increasingly more, tens, hundreds, thousands, tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands!


    As far as the eye could see, the vast ocean was filled with this frenzied scene. Every fish seemed uncontrobly excited, leaping out of the water as if the sea had turned into a boiling pot of oil.


    It was incredibly spectacr. Zhao Tiansha''s earlier move affected a thousand miles, but Zhong Shan''s technique impacted fish even beyond that range.


    Countless fish seemed to have gone mad. Even the deep-sea fish were jumping out.


    Jumping! Jumping! Jumping!


    The guards on the shore were dumbfounded by this bizarre event. What was going on? There was no hint of magical energy!


    The entire sea surface was filled with fish, endless numbers of them, all in a state of frenzy. Some were attacking other fish, some just trying to escape the water, and even further out, a flood dragon appeared.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The flood dragon soared into the sky, its blood-red eyes filled with terror as it flew away.


    Everyone on the shore was stunned, mouths agape. What was happening? Was this Zhong Shan''s doing?


    But Zhong Shan had already withdrawn his hand from the water and stood up. The fish in the distant sea remained in a frenzy, leaping wildly.


    What in the world? Not even ghosts could cause such chaos. What kind of sorcery was this?


    Zhong Shan took to the air, observing the sea from above. His eyes suddenly brightened, and with a swift motion, he summoned a colorful, spiky fish to his hand.


    "Wow, Dad, this is so fun! The fish in the sea are all dancing. Can you do this for me when we get back?" Bingbing eximed, her eyes sparkling.


    Billions of fish dancing madly?


    Zhong Shan then returned to the shore, reaching into the sea once more to absorb back the Red Luan Mist he had released. He sighed in relief; using so much Red Luan Mist at once had been taxing, even at its sixth level. A whole sea was a considerable challenge, but absorbing it back made things much easier.


    Turning around, everyone was still staring at Zhong Shan in bewilderment. What had he done?


    Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha recognized the power of a spell, Shao Feihou used a potion, but what about Zhong Shan? What was this technique?


    No spell, no potion, just putting his hand in the water and making billions of fish dance? And he could stop it at will? Were these fish raised by him? But most of these fish didn''t even have spiritual intelligence. Even if they were raised, this shouldn''t be possible. How did he do it?


    "Five-colored venomous pufferfish!" Bingbing suddenly shouted.


    The colorful, spiky fish Zhong Shan had caught was indeed a five-colored venomous pufferfish. It was rare and highly dangerous due to its potent venom, making it a prize catch.


    The crowd''s confusion and awe only deepened. Zhong Shan''s method was beyond their understanding, adding yet anotheryer to the mysterious and powerful impression he was making on everyone, especially Tian Ling''er.


    Bingbing''s exmation brought everyone back to their senses.


    Tian Ling''er''s initial excitement quickly subsided, and Nie Qingqing''s eyes shed with an inexplicable look when she nced at Zhong Shan. Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha wore dark expressions. Clearly, Zhong Shan''s feat of making billions of fish dance had overshadowed their own techniques. This one move alone was enough to outshine them all.


    Indeed, the fervent gazes of the guards proved everything; their eyes were filled with admiration.


    "A five-colored venomous pufferfish? Isn''t that highly poisonous? Zhong Shan, are you nning to feed Ling''er a poisonous fish?" Xiaoyao Hou sneered.


    "Poison? Is Xiaoyao Hou afraid of poison? Besides, I''m not cooking for you. It''s nearly noon, so why don''t you go prepare your dish?" Zhong Shan retorted.


    "Hmph!"


    With the fish caught, it was time to cook.


    Cooking? The group found this situation peculiar. They had all abstained from food for countless years and had no need to cook. Nheless, they had agreed to the task, so they had to follow through, even if it meant using magic.


    "Yes, go ahead and prepare your dishes," Nie Qingqing smiled.


    Zhao Tiansha and Xiaoyao Hou both went to gather their subordinates.


    Zhao Tiansha was fortunate; some of his men still remembered how to cook. Xiaoyao Hou, however, had brought twenty-nine Imperial Extreme Realm experts, all arrogant individuals who hadn''t cooked in centuries. They had always had servants to prepare their meals.


    Zhong Shan, despite abstaining from food, had never given up the pleasure of eating.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan conjured a full kitchen setup,plete with a stove, pots, and pans.


    "Uncle, can I borrow a pot?" Bingbing asked as she ran over.


    Shao Feihou felt awkward. He had been about to say he could forge a stove from ore, but Bingbing had already run over, so he swallowed his words.


    Zhong Shan, fond of Bingbing, nodded and, to everyone''s amazement, produced another set of kitchenware for the delighted Bingbing.


    "Dad, cut that piece! Mom said that part is the most tender!"


    In the midst of the awkwardness, Bingbing expertly directed Shao Feihou. After all, she had a keen interest in cooking.


    A five-colored venomous pufferfish! The more poisonous a creature, the more delicious it could be if prepared correctly. Zhong Shan had eaten this fish before and knew how to handle it, how to remove the toxin sacs, and how to cook it to perfection, just like the fugu he had eaten in his youth.


    Having been a mortal not too long ago, Zhong Shan was meticulous about food.


    "Uncle, can I borrow some seasonings? And that one too!" Bingbing came over again.


    Zhong Shan handed over everything she needed.


    In the distance, Zhao Tiansha''s subordinates began to cook, quickly forging a set of kitchen tools with magic. However, theycked seasonings. Seeing Zhong Shan and Shao Feihou well-stocked, they could only watch with envy, too embarrassed to ask for any.


    As for Xiaoyao Hou, his group couldn''t manage, so they simply cleaned the fish and roasted it over a fire.


    Halfway through, the aroma of fish soup wafted over from afar. ncing at their own ckening fish on the fire, Xiaoyao Hou was infuriated.


    "Hmph, let''s go!"


    Kicking over the burnt fish, Xiaoyao Hou and his subordinates left in a huff without saying a word. Even with his thick skin, Xiaoyao Hou couldn''t stand to stay any longer with his charred disaster.


    Not long after, three bowls of fish soup were ready and brought over.


    Three bowls of fish soup were ced in front of Tian Ling''er.


    "Ling''er, give it a try. It may not be perfect, but it''s made with my heartfelt intention," Zhao Tiansha said.


    "Thank you, senior brother!" Tian Ling''er replied immediately.


    "The credit goes to my daughter. It''s been a long, long time since Ist cooked," Shao Feihou added.


    "Dad, have you ever cooked before?" Bingbing asked, her face full of surprise. In her eyes, Shao Feihou was someone who didn''t even know the basics of cooking. He imed it had been a long time since hest cooked, but she had just helped him.


    Shao Feihou smiled awkwardly at his daughter''s question.


    "I''ve removed the toxins from this fish, making itpletely safe to eat. In this world, there are only two women I would cook for to please them, and you''re the second," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    The second? Everyone looked at Zhong Shan with a bit of surprise. In such a pleasant environment, why was he saying something like this? It seemed like he was giving himself a disadvantage.


    "Try it," Nie Qingqing suggested.


    As the lids were lifted, a fragrant aroma filled the air.


    "Sniff, sniff."


    Bingbing sniffed the air and turned her gaze towards Zhong Shan''s pot.


    "It smells so good! Why does it smell so good?" Bingbing eximed.


    Indeed, Zhong Shan''s soup was already surpassing the other two in aroma alone.


    Tian Ling''er took a spoonful of the first soup.


    As soon as she drank it, her eyebrows furrowed. But since it was her senior brother''s ''heartfelt intention,'' she forced herself to take a few more sips.


    The soup from Bingbing and Shao Feihou made her frown initially but then smile as the taste settled. It was evidently much better than Zhao Tiansha''s.


    Finally, she tried Zhong Shan''s soup. With the first sip, Tian Ling''er''s eyes lit up, an indescribable deliciousness filling her senses. She quickly took two more sips, feeling the same irresistible allure as she did with the osmanthus cake.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er''s expression, the result was clear.


    "Ling''er, which one is the best?" Zhao Tiansha suddenly asked, a hint of anticipation in his voice.


    Tian Ling''er furrowed her brow, looking at the three bowls of fish soup, unsure of what to say.


    "It''s senior brother''s," Tian Ling''er said, suppressing her guilt and going against her true feelings.


    "Good!" Zhao Tiansha smiled contentedly, then cast a provocative nce at Zhong Shan.


    Seeing Zhao Tiansha''s smile, Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold. He wasn''t ming Ling''er; he had already anticipated this oue. Letting Zhao Tiansha win with an inferior dish would make Ling''er feel a slight pang of guilt, a small psychological advantage that was a significant victory for Zhong Shan. This would be immensely helpful for defeating the three in four months.


    However, seeing Zhao Tiansha''s provocative smile, Zhong Shan realized Zhao Tiansha''s malicious intent. He wasn''t interested in Ling''er but was seeking revenge. Hmph!


    "Sister, can I try it?" Bingbing asked boldly, grabbing a spoon and sipping Zhong Shan''s soup.


    "Mm, it''s so good! Even better than Mom''s! It''s really good!" Bingbing eximed, taking several more sips.


    Tian Ling''er lowered her head slightly, clearly feeling guilty.


    "Sister, you should drink the best one. I''ll take this ''bad'' one!" Bingbing said, lifting Zhong Shan''s pot as if she intended to keep it all to herself.


    Bingbing''s possessiveness made Tian Ling''er feel a sudden pang in her heart, as if she had lost something precious. That something was right in front of her, but she couldn''t take it back.


    This kind of pain, more like a stifling ache, made Tian Ling''er''s mood suddenly plummet. She felt an inexplicable urge to cry.


    "Sister, I''m tired. I want to rest," Tian Ling''er said to Nie Qingqing.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er''s sudden change in emotion, Nie Qingqing looked around at everyone and said, "Let''s call it a day."


    (Chapter continues...)

 Chapter 440: Cheating

    <h4>Chapter 440: Cheating</h4>


    The first meeting had ended, and Zhong Shan was quite satisfied with the results.


    In the Nam Ming Pce, Zhong Shan turned to Zhihuo and the others.


    "How did it go?" Zhong Shan asked.


    He didn''t want to hear another "not bad" from Zhihuo!


    "This time, there was a breakthrough!" Zhihuo said, a bit embarrassed.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow. A breakthrough? That was good news!


    "More than just a breakthrough. Today, Zhihuo and Qinghong had two very intimate encounters," Lin Xiao suddenlyughed.


    "Two intimate encounters?" Zhong Shan''s eyes widened. So soon?


    "Mm!" Zhihuo responded, still somewhat embarrassed.


    Seeing Zhihuo''s expression, and the smiles on Lin Xiao and Liu Wushuang''s faces, Zhong Shan was puzzled.


    "What happened? What''s so funny about two intimate encounters?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Hahahaha!"


    As Zhong Shan spoke, Lin Xiao and Liu Wushuangughed even louder.


    "Commander, here''s what happened," Zhihuo began to exin, still embarrassed��


    Earlier that day, while Zhong Shan and the others were catching fish by the sea, Qinghong stood at the entrance of a pce, watching with interest. Zhihuo, Lin Xiao, and Liu Wushuang, the three mischief-makers, walked over to the side. No one paid attention to anyone else. Qinghong ignored Zhihuo, and the four stood in silence.


    Suddenly, Zhao Tiansha''s sword cleaved the sea!


    Zhihuo, pressured by the two behind him, eximed in surprise, "Ah!"


    Hearing the exmation, Qinghong frowned and turned around. At that moment, Liu Wushuang tripped, and Lin Xiao gave a strong push!


    "Ah!" The innocent Zhihuo stumbled towards Qinghong, his hands outstretched,nding on Qinghong''s chest as she turned.


    As his hands made contact, both Zhihuo and Qinghong were stunned. They froze for a moment. (The first intimate encounter!) Lin Xiao and Liu Wushuang had already retreated to the side.


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Realizing her chest had been grabbed, Qinghong screamed.


    Zhihuo, startled, quickly withdrew his hands.


    In her shock and anger, Qinghong raised her hand.


    "Pervert!"


    "Smack~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Her palmnded hard on Zhihuo''s face. (The second intimate encounter!) Turning, Qinghong stormed off in a rage.��


    "Commander, that''s what happened. Does that count?" Zhihuo asked, looking awkward.


    "Well done! Lin Xiao, Liu Wushuang, you did a good job. Keep it up!" Zhong Shan said, very satisfied.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao and Liu Wushuang responded immediately.


    Zhihuo, however, was left speechless.��


    In the Lihuo Holy City, inside the Lihuo Holy Pce, Nie Fancheng sat on the main seat, with the old eunuch who had summoned Zhong Shan earlier standing before him.


    "Your Majesty, I''ve seen it. It''s very strange; I couldn''t understand it," the old eunuch reported.


    "Oh?" Nie Fancheng said, puzzled.


    "The cage protecting the ''Ming Yuan Pill'' in the Nam Ming Pce is very strange. I couldn''t determine its origin, nor could I understand the workings of thend beneath it," the old eunuch reported.


    "You couldn''t figure it out? Who''s guarding it?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "It should be Zhong Shan''s subordinate, Mr. Corpse. Apart from seeing that his cultivation is at the peak of the Nascent Soul stage, I couldn''t discern anything else. It''s very peculiar," the old eunuch said.


    "Nascent Soul peak stage, and you can''t see through him? Heh, Zhong Shan''s secrets are numerous indeed!" Nie Fancheng frowned slightly.


    "Your Majesty, do you think someone might..." The old eunuch hesitated.


    "Who would dare!" Nie Fancheng red.


    "I mean the original owner of the Ming Yuan Pill. Will hee?" the old eunuch asked, clearly aware of some hidden matters.


    "Him? He won''te!" Nie Fancheng took a deep breath.


    "Yes!" The old eunuch nodded.


    "Almost two months have passed. How is Ling''er doing?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "Among the four men, aside from Shao Feihou''s initial underwhelming performance with his daughter, the subsequent meetings have mostly been strong showdowns between Zhong Shan and Shao Feihou. Their methods are increasingly impressive, even astonishing this old servant. Some of their techniques are unheard of," the old eunuch marveled.


    "Zhong Shan and Shao Feihou? What about the other two?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "The other two... Xiaoyao Hou seems to be the weakest among them. Despite having many advantages, he still falls shortpared to Zhong Shan and Shao Feihou, who suppress himpletely," the old eunuch said truthfully.


    "Hmm! And Zhao Tiansha?" Nie Fancheng asked, nodding.


    "Zhao Tiansha is slightly better than Xiaoyao Hou, but Princess Ling''er''s deep attachment to him before her memory lossplicates things. The final oue remains uncertain," the old eunuch replied.


    "So, except for Kuang''er, the others are evenly matched?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "You could say that," the old eunuch bowed.


    "Your Majesty, Xiaoyao Hou is here. This old servant will take his leave," the old eunuch said, frowning suddenly.


    "Hmm," Nie Fancheng nodded.


    The old eunuch then exited the hall.


    "Your Majesty, Your Majesty!" Xiaoyao Hou, also known as Nie Kuang, called out as he entered.


    "Your Majesty! You must help Kuang''er!" Nie Kuang said, looking aggrieved.


    He had felt humiliated over the past days by the others.


    "What''s the matter, Kuang''er?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "Your Majesty, the civil test you set is about to begin. I just reviewed their information. How can Ipete in the test? That arrogant Zhong Shan is sure to win! The top schr of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, who wrote the earth-shaking ''Man Jiang Hong'' that brought down heavenly thunder! How can Kuang''erpete with such a person?" Nie Kuangined.


    "You can''t outwrite him?" Nie Fancheng frowned slightly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty, you must help Kuang''er!" Nie Kuang pleaded, almost childlike.


    Perhaps Nie Kuang was the only one in the entire Great Li Dynasty who dared to act so spoiled in front of the emperor.


    Nie Fancheng smiled bitterly and shook his head, "What do you want to do?"


    "I want a simr piece of writing. I want to surpass Zhong Shan!" Nie Kuang said immediately.


    "I can''t write it for you!" Nie Fancheng said.


    With a sudden thud, Xiaoyao Hou fell to his knees.


    "Your Majesty, please! Just this once, I must surpass Zhong Shan. Write a piece for me that can invoke celestial phenomena. That''s all I ask, just to invoke celestial phenomena!" Nie Kuang begged persistently.


    Seeing Nie Kuang kneeling, Nie Fancheng was suddenly reminded of his deceased brother, who had humiliated himself by kneeling before the enemy to save his own life. Nie Fancheng''s heart tightened painfully.


    "Fine, I''ll write a piece that will invoke celestial phenomena for you!" Nie Fancheng sighed lightly��


    In the Nam Ming Pce, Zhong Shan was speaking with his subordinates.


    "Commander, this... this... what kind of rule is this?" Shui Wuhen was red-faced with anger.


    "Enough!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath, clearly worried about eavesdroppers who might report back to Nie Fancheng.


    "But this is so unfair to you, Commander. There are only five days left until the civil test. With your ability, you could write another piece like ''Man Jiang Hong,'' and with heavenly thunder apanying it, who could beat you then? You would certainly win. But now, what is this? Cheating! It''s obvious cheating!" Shui Wuhen fumed.


    "Yes, Commander, these rules are too advantageous for Xiaoyao Hou. They allow the four of you to start writing now and even submit pre-written pieces on the day of the civil test. This just opens the door for Xiaoyao Hou to have someone ghostwrite for him. It negates your advantage," Liu Wushuang said, shaking his head.


    "The Great Li Emperor is clearly favoring Xiaoyao Hou. It''s obvious that the ghostwriter for Xiaoyao Hou will be the Great Li Emperor himself. Can you guarantee that your piece will surpass the Great Li Emperor''s?" Lin Xiao asked, frowning.


    "Surpass the Great Li Emperor? In this Lihuo Holy City, no one''s writing can surpass the Great Li Emperor''s! The Emperor represents the highest literary authority!" Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "So, are we just going to lose this time? This isn''t apetition, it''s outright cheating!" Shui Wuhen said, looking unwilling to ept defeat.


    "The civil test is only within the Princess Ling''er''s residence. Such favoritism will only let Xiaoyao Hou shine. We will have to wait until the martial test in the central square of Lihuo Holy City, under the watchful eyes of millions, for a fair contest," Liu Wushuang sighed.


    "Not necessarily!" Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    "Huh?"


    "No one can surpass the Great Li Emperor in literary talent, but that doesn''t mean Xiaoyao Hou will win!" Zhong Shan suddenly smiled.


    "Right, it''s Princess Ling''er who judges thepetition!" Lin Xiao suddenly smiled.


    "But in this way, Xiaoyao Hou''s writing won''t be weaker than yours, and Zhao Tiansha will also be looking for any opportunity. Your advantage will be nullified," Shui Wuhen said, worried.


    "Advantage? Do you know what my advantage is?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Huh?"


    "Back in the day, during the imperial examinations in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, I was able to be the top schr not just because I invoked ''heaven''s wrath,''" Zhong Shan said.


    "It wasn''t?" Shui Wuhen was taken aback.


    "Of course not. That was just a side effect. The main reason was the Emperor''s topic at that time, ''War.'' My ''Man Jiang Hong'' perfectly captured the essence of the theme, so I took first ce," Zhong Shan exined.


    "But this time, there''s no set topic. It''s up to each individual," Liu Wushuang pointed out.


    "A topic? The topic is in each person''s heart! If you grasp the topic, you will win!" Zhong Shan said with a mysterious smile.

 Chapter 441: The Civil Test

    <h4>Chapter 441: The Civil Test</h4>


    Two months had passed.


    Zhong Shan, Zhao Tiansha, Xiaoyao Hou, and Shao Feihou gathered at Princess Ling''er''s residence. Today was the day of the civil test.


    However, the rules made this supposedly fair test appear very unfair. The test''s judgment rested solely in the hands of Princess Ling''er.


    On a floating ind within Princess Ling''er''s residence, Ling''er sat inside a pce apanied by Nie Qingqing, looking out at four tables set up outside.


    Standing before the four tables were the participants of this civil test. All the necessary writing materials��brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones��were already in ce.


    The four men stood in front of their respective tables.


    "Alright, you have one hour. It''s all up to your luck now!" Nie Qingqing announced, casting a deep nce at Zhong Shan, who stood at the far end.


    Xiaoyao Hou appeared particrly excited this time, while Zhao Tiansha and Shao Feihou were both brimming with confidence. Zhong Shan wore a faint smile.


    Zhao Tiansha and Shao Feihou, full of confidence, didn''t attempt any tricks. They picked up the paper from their tables, spread it out, dipped their brushes in ink, and began writing their essays on the spot.


    By writing their essays on the spot, they demonstrated their confidence, their real abilities, and their sincere intentions.


    They relied entirely on their true skills!


    Shao Feihou asionally paused to think and write, fully focused, his eyes showing his serious dedication.


    Zhao Tiansha, as he wrote, had a red me emblem on his forehead that pulsed rhythmically. Each pulse coincided precisely with a stroke of his brush.


    The two were deeply engrossed in their writing, while at either end of the line, Zhong Shan and Xiaoyao Hou each brought their own items.


    Xiaoyao Hou produced a scroll of paper, tied with a thin cord that seemed to have many seals and restrictions locking it, containing its energy. He held the scroll with great confidence. This was an article written by the Emperor himself��how could anyonepete with that? Once he untied it, it would surely be an earth-shattering revtion, securing his victory. The only downside was the twopetitors who decided to write their essays on the spot, implicitly questioning the authenticity of his piece.


    However, he felt reassured seeing Zhong Shan on the other end also bringing his own item.


    ncing at Zhong Shan, Xiaoyao Hou showed a hint of disdain. The new top schr of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty? So what? No matter how well he wrote, could it surpass the Emperor''s writing? When I win, I''ll make sure you suffer!


    Zhong Shan, unconcerned with the others, gently ced a small wooden box on his table, waiting for the hour to pass.


    The pce was equipped with restrictions to prevent anyone from overhearing Nie Qingqing and Tian Ling''er''s conversation.


    "Sister, I understand the martial test, where the winner is determined by defeating the opponent. But for the civil test, I don''t quite understand. How do you judge the essays?" Tian Ling''er asked Nie Qingqing, feeling puzzled.


    "The civil test? Hehe, it''s all up to your preference. Since you''re the judge, whoever you say is first will be first, and no one can dispute it. Besides, the best essays often trigger some extraordinary reactions," Nie Qingqing exined.


    "Extraordinary reactions?" Tian Ling''er asked, confused.


    "Of course. Take the recent imperial exams in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, for example..." Nie Qingqing began to exin.


    "What? Zhong Shan is that amazing? His essay could summon rolling thunder? Anger the heavens?" Tian Ling''er covered her mouth in shock.


    "Indeed!" Nie Qingqing confirmed with a smile, subtly supporting Zhong Shan.


    "But what is he doing?" Tian Ling''er pointed at Zhong Shan in the distance.


    Zhong Shan, unlike the others, didn''t start writing immediately. Instead, he calmly ced a small wooden box on his table and waited patiently. The box, in and unadorned, sat silently as Zhong Shan stood beside it, a slight smile on his face, exuding confidence and mystery.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan appeared calm, not picking up his brush but instead cing a small wooden box on his table, indicating that he had already prepared his essay.


    "He must have written it beforehand. The Emperor set the rules for the civil test to allow essays to be written days in advance. Zhong Shan likely has a lot to say, so he wrote it in advance," Nie Qingqing spected, also puzzled.


    "Oh!" Tian Ling''er nodded absentmindedly.


    Tian Ling''er then surveyed the four participants. Her eyes showed distaste when looking at Xiaoyao Hou, excitement when seeing Zhao Tiansha, although less than a month ago. She felt indifferent towards Shao Feihou, recognizing his excellence butcking any romantic feelings. Finally, her gazended on Zhong Shan, and her emotions became extremelyplicated.


    The hour passed quickly.


    Zhao Tiansha was the first to finish his essay.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Like a volcanic eruption, a massive me shot up from Zhao Tiansha''s paper, soaring into the sky, turning the clouds red as if burned by the fiery spectacle. The disy was so powerful that it made viewers feel a rush of excitement and passion.


    Tian Ling''er felt a surge of happiness for her most admired senior brother, who could write such a powerful essay.


    As the mes gradually dissipated, the paper still glowed with a faint red light, exuding an extraordinary aura.


    At that moment, Shao Feihou alsopleted his writing.


    "Chirp, chirp, chirp..." From Shao Feihou''s paper came the crisp sound of countless birds singing. The Vermilion Bird, which was feeding on sacred fire grains, raised its head in confusion. Where did these birdse from?


    A delightful fragrance wafted from Shao Feihou''s paper, and a beautiful jasmine flower emerged from the page, followed by more flowers and the silhouettes of thousands of birds flying among the blooms.


    Birdsong and floral fragrances created a magnificent and gentle scene, incredibly beautiful and magical. This visionsted for twenty breaths before fading away.


    Shao Feihou looked at his work with satisfaction. From afar, Nie Qingqing saw it and was astonished. Shao Feihou hadn''t written anything; instead, he had drawn a stunning portrait of Tian Ling''er, capturing her beauty perfectly.


    The picture was exquisite, with birds and flowers adding to its charm, making the fragrance almost tangible.


    Tian Ling''er was already gaping in amazement. Earlier, Nie Qingqing had described the imperial exams in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, making her yearn to witness such things. Seeing the volcanic eruption from Zhao Tiansha and the birds and flowers from Shao Feihou''s brush was a first for her. Both pieces were unprecedented and magnificent.


    This ced the two men''s works at the peak, thanks to the visions they conjured.


    "Hehe, Zhong Shan, what about yours?" Xiaoyao Hou sneered from the side.


    "Xiaoyao Hou, please," Zhong Shan replied calmly.


    The other two also turned their attention to Xiaoyao Hou and Zhong Shan.


    "Fine, let me show you what a real masterpiece looks like, haha!" Xiaoyao Hou said arrogantly.


    He carefully untied the cord from his scroll and began to unroll it.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    As the scroll opened, an endless shower of golden sand erupted from it, soaring into the sky before sprinkling down to the ground. A beam of yellow light, like a pir supporting the heavens, illuminated the sky, revealing countless visions��majestic mountains, flying dragons and phoenixes, immortal beings enjoying themselves, and divine music echoing through the air.


    The scene was grand and awe-inspiring, immediately drawing everyone''s attention and admiration. Xiaoyao Hou''s confidence grew as he saw the reactions.


    Finally, it was Zhong Shan''s turn. The tension was palpable as all eyes turned towards him, curious about what he had prepared.


    The entire princess''s residence was suddenly immersed in a grand, sacred illusion. Everyone within the residence stopped whatever they were doing, entranced by the sudden transformation of the surroundings.


    It was breathtaking! Absolutely beautiful!


    Everyone felt as if they were in a dream. This magical scenested for nearly half an incense stick''s time.


    When the illusion finally dissipated, the people remained dazed, deeply immersed in the experience.


    It was incredibly powerful! This essay had caused such an astonishing change upon being unrolled, immediately overshadowing the previous two essays.


    Tian Ling''er and Nie Qingqing were both in awe, marveling at the beauty of it all. Who could write such an earth-shattering essay?


    Xiaoyao Hou? Both women felt a wave of disdain. It couldn''t possibly be him. Only one person could write such a masterpiece��the Great Li Emperor, Nie Fancheng!


    Xiaoyao Hou was immensely proud, looking extremely satisfied with the result. He then turned to Zhong Shan.


    "Alright, Zhong Shan, it''s your turn!" Xiaoyao Hou called out.


    Everyone''s eyes turned to Zhong Shan.


    They had all gathered information about Zhong Shan, knowing his reputation for writing pieces that could shake the heavens and cause thunder to strike. Just how powerful was his writing? Everyone was eager to find out.


    But could it be stronger than the Great Li Emperor''s?


    Xiaoyao Hou sneered, Shao Feihou looked serious, and Zhao Tiansha cast a cold nce��all focused on Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath and gently opened the small wooden box.


    Everyone steeled themselves, wary of what might emerge, fearing that Zhong Shan''s essay could also enchant their minds.


    The box opened, but no light or spectacle emerged. It was utterly ordinary.


    Because it was so ordinary, everyone felt even more on edge, cautious and wary. After all, no one underestimated Zhong Shan after observing him for the past two months.


    Slowly, Zhong Shan lifted a book from the small wooden box. It was an unassuming, thick book.


    "Ling''er, this is what I''ve been working on these past few days," Zhong Shan said.


    When Zhong Shan finished speaking, everyone was momentarily stunned. That was it?


    Was that all? No celestial phenomenon? No illusions? Just an ordinary book? Everyone felt a sense of confusion��Zhong Shan''s submission seemed too in. Did he think that writing more would surpass these earth-shattering essays?


    A book?


    "Present it!" Nie Qingqing ordered.


    Four servants quickly brought the four submissions into the pce for Tian Ling''er to judge personally.


    Once the essays were inside the pce, Nie Qingqing and Tian Ling''er immediately focused on Zhong Shan''s submission.


    A literary prodigy capable of invoking the heavens? It didn''t seem like Zhong Shan would produce anything less than extraordinary. But what was going on now? Why was there no extraordinary phenomenon at all?


    Tian Ling''er and Nie Qingqing were both perplexed, scrutinizing the simple book that Zhong Shan had presented. Was there something hidden within its pages that they couldn''t see at a nce?

 Chapter 442: The Last Unfairness

    <h4>Chapter 442: The Last Unfairness</h4>


    Setting aside the three extraordinary works, why look at an unremarkable piece? Normally, no one would pay attention to a piece thatcked any magical phenomena. However, Zhong Shan''s behavior had been so peculiar that it intrigued everyone. His actions were almost eerie.


    This was unlike Zhong Shan''s usual style. Throughout the period when the four were pursuing Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shan, despite not being very conspicuous, always stood out as the most unique and exceptional. But now?


    Ling''er gently picked up the thick book Zhong Shan had made.


    It was a bound book with a title on the cover.


    "The Adventures of Zhong Shan and Ling''er"


    Seeing this title, the two women found it odd. Below the title was a small illustration��very peculiar, with two small figures that didn''t look quite human, but somehow felt like they represented two people.


    A man and a woman, both drawn very cutely with exaggeratedlyrge eyes, vaguely resembling Zhong Shan and Ling''er, but not quite. The style was unusual��clearly, these were cartoon characters!


    Tian Ling''er looked at the illustrations with curiosity. They were very peculiar yet interesting. She gently opened the first page.


    Inside the first page, there wasn''t any borate prose but rather a series of simple drawings, each telling a story in sequence.


    It was the same story Zhong Shan had told not long ago!


    The illustrations exuded a sense of familiarity.


    "Sister, look, this is Little Nanzi, haha, this is Little Nanzi when he''s flustered. Look, his eyes are bulging out," Tian Ling''er eximed excitedly.


    In the drawings, Nan Batian��referred to as Little Nanzi by Tian Ling''er��had his eyesically popping out in an exaggerated expression that wouldn''t be possible in reality. This exaggerated style elicitedughter from everyone.


    In the casino scene, the viin winning arge amount of silver notes from ''Tian Ling''er'' was followed by Zhong Shan''s dramaticeback. The other ''characters'' showed exaggeratedlyrge mouths in shock, making Tian Ling''er and Nie Qingqingugh uncontrobly.


    The amusing style captivated Tian Ling''er, making it impossible for her to look away.


    As Tian Ling''er flipped through the ic book,'' engrossed in its charm, Nie Qingqing couldn''t help but smile wryly. Zhong Shan''s new ideas were endless. Just these past two months, she had encountered more novelty than she had seen in a century. Zhong Shan was truly a remarkable person.


    While Tian Ling''er was fully absorbed in the ic book,'' Nie Qingqing turned to look at the other three masterpieces.


    Shao Feihou''s work was a lifelike painting, incredibly vivid, with the figure of Tian Ling''er almost stepping out of the canvas. Zhao Tiansha''s essay was filled with a powerful sense of explosiveness. Xiaoyao Hou''s ghostwritten essay was the most awe-inspiring, offering profound insights at a nce.


    Among the three, Xiaoyao Hou''s ghostwritten piece was the most impressive. If this were an imperial exam, it would unquestionably take first ce. Shao Feihou''s painting was unconventional and highly innovative for a civil test. However, it fell slightly shortpared to the Emperor''s essay. Zhao Tiansha''s essay, though extraordinary, couldn''t match the Emperor''s power or Shao Feihou''s originality.


    In Nie Qingqing''s mind, of the three essays, the Emperor''s was the strongest, and Zhao Tiansha''s was the weakest.


    However, Tian Ling''er seemed to have forgotten about the three masterpieces, engrossed in heric book,ughing gleefully.


    Nie Qingqing turned to look at Tian Ling''er, finding the situation peculiar. Zhong Shan''sic book could never be considered high art. It could be imitated by anyone, unlike the three masterpieces, which contained the ''intent, spirit, and realm'' of three great masters, unique in the world.


    Now, how could this be exined?


    Tian Ling''er waspletely engrossed in theic book, ignoring the earth-shattering essays. Nie Qingqing found it absurd. What was it about this book that captivated Ling''er so?


    The cute drawings, the exaggerated expressions, and the rollercoaster storyline resonated deeply with Tian Ling''er, giving theic book an inexplicable allure that called to her.


    Tian Ling''er was utterly absorbed in theic book. When Zhong Shan had told the story, it was just a vague mental image, but now it was a tangibleic.


    As she read, Tian Ling''er felt as if she were living the story,pletely forgetting about the three essays awaiting her judgment.


    When she saw ''Zhong Shan'' sacrificing himself to save ''Tian Ling''er,'' she felt her own tension rise.


    Nie Qingqing shook her head, looking through the pce door at Zhong Shan outside. She was filled with admiration. Zhong Shan''s understanding of human nature was extraordinary.


    Tian Ling''er, despite her exceptional talent, didn''t care for the sophisticated phrases that schrs admired. She valued what resonated with her heart. So, no matter how well-written the essays were, even the Emperor''s, they couldn''tpare to the storybook, theic book, in Tian Ling''er''s eyes.


    Thus, Zhong Shan deliberately abandoned the advantage of writing an essay, choosing instead to directly target Ling''er''s soft spot, captivating herpletely. Writing skillfully didn''tpare to writing cleverly. Realizing this, Nie Qingqing gave Zhong Shan another deep look of admiration.


    "Sister, look! This is you, Zhong Shan drew you!" Tian Ling''er pointed at a picture of a beautiful woman riding a giant blue luan.


    Nie Qingqing immediately came over to look. Seeing her own likeness in theic, she felt a sense of amusement. The little beauty in the drawing looked so endearing.


    The two women spent nearly an hour reading theic book. When they finished, Tian Ling''er let out a long sigh of satisfaction, then, still craving more, wanted to read it again.


    Seeing this, Nie Qingqing knew the winner was clear. Tian Ling''er was wholly captivated by Zhong Shan''sic, more than any grand essay could achieve. This clever approach had won her heart, making the decision unmistakable.


    As the session concluded, Nie Qingqing finally addressed the gathered men, "The civil test is over. Based on Princess Ling''er''s judgment, the winner is Zhong Shan."


    The announcement caused a stir among the participants, but looking at Tian Ling''er''s joyful expression as she clutched theic book, it was evident that Zhong Shan''s unconventional strategy had triumphed.

 Chapter 443: Phoenix Island

    <h4>Chapter 443: Phoenix Ind</h4>


    The Princess Ling''er''s Mansion.


    Marquis Xiaoyao, Marquis Shaofei, and Zhao Tiansha arrived as promised. Meeting every five days was a rare opportunity for them. Their only surprise was the absence of Zhong Shan, but this was a small matter for the three, considering the benefits outweighed any drawbacks.


    This time, the three engaged in an archery contest at Nie Qingqing''s request. Each disyed their enthusiasm and skills.


    However, Princess Tian Ling''er, sitting not far away, seemed lost in her thoughts. Even the presence of her ''most revered'' senior brother couldn''t stir her interest. She absentmindedly flipped through the book titled "The Adventures of Zhong Shan and Ling''er," her expressions fluctuating between joy and frowns.


    She was so absorbed in her own world that she didn''t even notice when Xiaoyao, Shaofei, and Zhao Tiansha left.


    "Ling''er!" Nie Qingqing approached her.


    "Sister, it''s been three meetings already. Why hasn''t Zhong Shane?" Tian Ling''er asked anxiously.


    "Maybe he has something important to attend to," Nie Qingqing consoled.


    "Is he angry with me?" Tian Ling''er looked troubled.


    "Why would he be angry with you?"


    "During the literary contest, his book was clearly the best, but I... I... Sister, do you think he''s mad at me and doesn''t want toe anymore?" Tian Ling''er couldn''t hold back her tears.


    Nie Qingqing immediately hugged her. "No, no, he wouldn''t be so petty. Even if he gets angry at anyone, it wouldn''t be you. He must have been dyed by something important. He''lle, he wouldn''t miss it without a reason."


    "Really?" Ling''er suddenly stopped crying, her face filled with hope as she looked at Nie Qingqing.


    "Of course. You two are husband and wife, witnessed by Heaven and Earth!" Nie Qingqing reassured her.


    "I almost forgot!" Tian Ling''er''s cheeks flushed, and she broke into a smile.


    In the Sacred Hall of Lihuo.


    Nie Fancheng looked at the elderly eunuch before him. "Disappeared?"


    "Yes, Your Majesty. Zhong Shan has truly vanished. I sent people to search many ces, but there''s no trace of him," the eunuch replied.


    "Who else is missing?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "One of his subordinates, the zing Fire Wolf General. Everyone else is still at the South Ming Tribute Hall," the eunuch said respectfully.


    "He left just like that, without considering Ling''er?"


    "Your Majesty, from what I observe, Princess Ling''er''s heart has already been taken by Zhong Shan," the eunuch remarked.


    "Oh?"


    "In these days of Zhong Shan''s absence, Princess Ling''er has been on edge, likely due to her growing attachment to him over the past two months. Now his absence might be a strategy to deepen her feelings. When Zhong Shan returns, there will be no doubt left. Princess Ling''er won''t choose anyone else," the eunuch spected.


    "Two months? Indeed, he is a master in the ways of love," Nie Fancheng sighed.


    Zhong Shan and the zing Fire Wolf General had disappeared, along with another person��the Blue-Red Phoenix General!


    During the two months they spent together, zing Fire hadpletely won over Qinghong. Their minds and hearts intertwined, they treated each other with utmost respect. Initially, Qinghong was furious upon discovering zing Fire''s premeditated pursuit, but eventually, she epted it, recognizing his outstanding qualities.


    In terms of flying speed, no one in the world could surpass Qingluan!


    Transformed into her true form, Qingluan, Zhong Shan and zing Fire stood on her back. With a spread of her wings, Qingluan soared over an infinite distance.


    "Your Majesty, we''re almost there!" Qingluan spoke from beneath, having evidently been informed of Zhong Shan''s identity by zing Fire.


    "Beihai, Phoenix Ind?" Zhong Shan asked, gazing into the distance.


    "Yes! However, Your Majesty, using the ''Phoenix Song of Nine Heavens'' might be too taxing; it can severely drain your energy," Qinghong replied.


    "Let''s give it a try. We''ll do our best and leave the rest to fate. Thank you, Qinghong. Without your help, it would take us years to find Phoenix Ind in the vast Northern Sea," Zhong Shan said.


    "Your Majesty, Qinghong is my wife. It''s only natural for me to help," Zhihuo chimed in with a smile.


    Seeing Zhihuo''s confident demeanor nowpared to his timid self before, Zhong Shan nodded and smiled.


    Soon, even from a great distance, the three could see the outlines of Phoenix Ind. It was enormous,parable in size to Tiang Ind! Birds of all kinds flew around the ind, and asionally, they could spot a phoenix soaring. When a phoenix took flight, a multitude of birds followed, forming a grand spectacle. This was the kingdom of birds, the hearnd of the phoenix n.


    Qingluan transformed back into her human form.


    "Your Majesty, Phoenix Ind has its rules. To meet the Supreme, I need to report first," Qinghong said.


    "Very well, I can wait," Zhong Shan replied.


    Suddenly, a piercing roar of agony erupted from the southwest corner of Phoenix Ind, echoing through the air. Zhong Shan saw a beam of white light shooting straight up into the sky from the northwest corner, piercing through the clouds. The sky turned white, not from clouds, but from the brilliance of the light.


    An immense pressure spread out, scattering the surrounding clouds and causing all nearby birds and beasts to tremble and fall to the ground in fear. Even from afar, Zhong Shan could feel the overwhelming force approaching. Despite his sixth-level Nascent Soul cultivation, his soul quivered as if shaken.


    "This power is immense, stronger than that of the Perfumed Buddha from the past, far stronger," Zhong Shan thought to himself, awed.


    "Who is that?" Zhihuo asked in shock.


    "Xuan Yuan, the strongest in the Empyrean Realm across the Divine Land," Qinghong replied.


    "The strongest in the Empyrean Realm?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrows shot up. He recalled who Xuan Yuan was.


    He had even seen Xuan Yuan before. In the past, when the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was sealed, Xuan Yuan had overseen the process. Even then, Zhong Shan had sensed his immense power, but with so many powerful beings in the Divine Land, he hadn''t paid much attention.


    It wasn''t untilter, after meeting Jian Ao and hearing Chu Jiu mention Xuan Yuan again, that he realized Xuan Yuan''s true might. For personal vengeance, Xuan Yuan had stirred a bloody storm across the Divine Land, annihting an entire n, killing billions.


    "Is he from Phoenix Ind?" Zhihuo asked.


    "No, but histe wife was the Supreme''s sister," Qinghong exined.


    "Oh?"


    "I don''t know much about his background, only that he''s incredibly strong. His wife, the Supreme''s sister, was killed by the Xiong n. After that, Xuan Yuan went mad and ughtered countless bears, exterminating the Xiong n single-handedly," Qinghong continued.


    "Then why is he here now? And why did that roar sound so full of pain?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Well, his reason for being here is simr to Princess Ling''er forgetting about you, Your Majesty," Qinghong replied.


    "Oh?"


    "The Supreme possesses a treasure called the ''Nirvana Fire Pool.'' It was because of this Nirvana Fire Pool that we were able to save Princess Ling''er before. Besides saving those on the brink of death, the Nirvana Fire Pool has other functions..."


    "What function does it have?"


    "It seals memories."


    "Seals memories?"


    "Yes, the Supreme used it to seal a portion of Princess Ling''er''s memories. That''s why she doesn''t remember you, Your Majesty."


    "And Xuan Yuan?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "He wants to seal the memories of his wife."


    "Oh?"


    "Above the Empyrean Realm is the Celestial Realm, which is just a step away from bing an immortal. The Supreme, the Buddha, the Dao Lord, and the Supreme are all Celestial Realm experts, just a step away from immortality. It''s said that Xuan Yuan is the strongest in the Empyrean Realm because all his abilities have reached the standards of the Celestial Realm. His only hindrance is the memory of his wife. This memory is his greatest obstacle, preventing him from reaching the Celestial Realm. His cultivation has been stuck at the Empyrean Realm, unable to advance."


    "So he wants to seal the memory of his wife to break through to the Celestial Realm?"


    "Yes, but his feelings for his wife are too deep, andbined with his extremely high cultivation, he hasn''t been able to sessfully seal those memories," Qinghong exined.


    "And that painful roar just now?"


    "To seal a memory purposefully, he has to recall it in vivid detail, letting it run through his mind before sealing it with the Nirvana Fire Pool. But every time he fails, that unbearable memory burns into his heart like a branding iron, causing excruciating pain and forcing him to roar in agony," Qinghong sighed.


    "An unforgettable love that traps him in his current realm? This love runs very, very deep," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "Then there aren''t many who can seal his memories?" Zhihuo asked.


    "No, he''s trying to seal them himself. The Supreme lent him the Nirvana Fire Pool, but he can''t leave Phoenix Ind while using it," Qinghong replied.


    "Zhihuo and I will wait near Xuan Yuan then," Zhong Shan decided after a moment.


    "Your Majesty, you''re going over there?" Qinghong was surprised.


    "Yes, at the very least, I want to see what the Nirvana Fire Pool that sealed Ling''er''s memories looks like," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright, there are many dwellings over there anyway," Qinghong said.


    With that, Qinghong led them quickly toward the source of the roar. The white pir of light in the sky remained, and the powerful aura hadn''t dissipated.


    As they approached, Zhong Shan felt an even stronger pressure. Standing on a mountain peak at a distance, he was unable to advance any further due to the overwhelming aura.


    From the mountain, Zhong Shan looked toward the center of the valley.


    Xuan Yuan was still Xuan Yuan, dressed impably in white, with white hair and eyebrows resembling Bei Qingsi but even more striking. His pupils were silver, but now streaked with threads of gold, like blood vessels in other people''s eyes.


    He stood with an air of wrath, his hair billowing around him, holding a white horsetail whisk, ring at the sky. At his feet was an oval-shaped red pool, glowing faintly, enveloping Xuan Yuan.


    Around Xuan Yuan, countless illusions flickered. They were all of Xuan Yuan and a beautiful woman, scenes unfolding like stories, all fragments of Xuan Yuan''s memories.

 Chapter 444: Guidance

    <h4>Chapter 444: Guidance</h4>


    Xuan Yuan''s eyes were filled with hostility as countless phantoms coalesced around him. Each phantom contained the image of the same woman. Zhong Shan knew these were Xuan Yuan''s memories.


    With each new phantom, Xuan Yuan seemed to suffer more. The valley filled with these phantoms, each one representing a piece of Xuan Yuan''s past with his wife. The more phantoms appeared, the more exhausted Xuan Yuan became, his clothes drenched in sweat.


    With a slight stomp of his foot, the red pool beneath him suddenly emitted a dazzling red light, illuminating the entire valley. Xuan Yuan closed his eyes slightly. The phantoms began to disappear as the red light touched them, erasing each memory as if sealing them away.


    Once the red light bathed the entire valley, it slowly receded back into the pool. All the phantoms vanished, except for one��a woman biting her lip with a single tear rolling down from her right eye. This lone phantom resisted, not erased nor sealed.


    From a distance, Xuan Yuan seemed to sense this tear.


    "Roar~~~~~~~!"


    Xuan Yuan let out another agonizing howl, sending endless beams of white light into the sky. The powerful aura forced Zhong Shan to retreat further from the mountain peak.


    Too strong. This aura was terrifying.


    The strongest in the Empyrean Realm?


    As Zhong Shan watched, the phantoms that had been erased by the red light began to reappear in the valley, sprouting like mushrooms after rain.


    "Failed again!" Qinghong shook her head.


    "Such hardship!" Zhihuomented.


    "Hmm, take this token. You can stay in any of the valleys. I will go to seek an audience with the Supreme!" Qinghong said.


    "Alright."


    Qinghong flew away, leaving Zhong Shan and Zhihuo to continue observing the valley.


    "This is truly beyond human endurance. Such hardship, if it were me, I would be exhausted after five attempts!" Zhihuo shook his head.


    "It''s impossible for you. He is held back by thatst phantom, that memory too deep. This single tear holds more weight than a thousand words. It has rooted itself in his heart. It is a memory and a taboo. If anyone dares to touch it, he would fight with everything he has, even the Nirvana Fire Pool can''t seal it," Zhong Shan said.


    Zhong Shan thought of his own taboos. When Kui''er died, wasn''t he the same? Perhaps only he could understand Xuan Yuan''s heart.


    "But this is too terrifying. ording to Qinghong, he''s been doing this for over ten years. Anyone else would have died from exhaustion by now!" Zhihuo said.


    "Because he is not like others!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Zhong Shan and Zhihuo continued to watch Xuan Yuan. Indeed, Xuan Yuan possessed a willpower beyond ordinary people. Each time he failed, he tried again, despite his soul being torn apart. He refused to give up.


    Zhong Shan watched for two days. Xuan Yuan attempted six times each day, relentlessly. His extraordinary willpower was evident.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan began to understand Xuan Yuan''s intention through his persistence. He could also empathize with his feelings.


    Standing at the peak of the mountain, Zhong Shan watched as more phantoms emerged in the valley. Xuan Yuan dredged up memories of his wife from the depths of his mind.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan called out, "Senior Xuan Yuan, if you cannot forget, why try to forget?"


    Xuan Yuan paused in the valley, then turned to look at Zhong Shan on the mountain peak. His gaze was so intense that Zhong Shan felt the air around him tighten, as if frozen by that single nce.


    Zhihuo immediately stepped forward to shield him, but Zhong Shan gently pulled him aside.


    "Bing an immortal allows great power to enter the underworld, but even in death, one can still be with their loved ones. If you can''t let go of her, why try? Keep her in your heart, let her apany you for life. Even if you never reach the Celestial Realm, you''ll have her in your heart," Zhong Shan continued.


    Zhihuo didn''t understand Zhong Shan''s intentions but remained vignt by his side.


    In the valley, Xuan Yuan''s previously violent gaze softened, and he seemed deep in thought, struggling internally.


    "Allow me to offer you two more lines of wisdom," Zhong Shan said.


    The red light from the Nirvana Fire Pool at Xuan Yuan''s feet began to fade, and the surrounding phantoms gradually vanished. Xuan Yuan watched Zhong Shan, waiting for his words.


    "At that time, the bright moon shone, illuminating the colorful clouds'' return. Tomorrow will not bring the same intoxication, as the colorful clouds will not return," Zhong Shan recited.


    Xuan Yuan murmured, "At that time, the bright moon shone, illuminating the colorful clouds'' return. Tomorrow will not bring the same intoxication, as the colorful clouds will not return."


    He repeated the lines over and over, as if caught in a trance. Gradually, he stood motionless, engulfed in a gentle sorrow, as still as a statue, his robes unmoved by the wind that swept through the valley.


    Zhihuo nced curiously at Xuan Yuan and then at Zhong Shan. He couldn''t understand the meaning of Zhong Shan''s words about the moon and colorful clouds, but it didn''t stop him from admiring Zhong Shan.


    What a remarkable event! If someone else had imed that a Nascent Soul cultivator could enlighten an Empyrean Realm expert with words, Zhihuo would never have believed it. But the reality was before his eyes. Regardless of whether Zhong Shan''s words were correct, Xuan Yuan had changed because of them, appearing to reach an epiphany.


    Zhong Shan''s guidance had to be about something other than cultivation. If it were about cultivation, even a hundred Zhong Shans couldn''t enlighten Xuan Yuan. But regarding emotions and the human condition, Xuan Yuan''s extraordinary cultivation couldn''tpare to the wisdom of someone like Zhong Shan, who had been tempered in the mortal world for eighty years.


    Zhong Shan was taking a gamble, one only he understood. He watched the valley intently, his eyes filled with anticipation.


    An hour passed, then two, then a day, then two days.


    Finally, after two days, there was movement from Xuan Yuan.


    A single tear fell from Xuan Yuan''s eye. Suddenly, everything around him froze, even the wind seemed to halt. Zhong Shan felt his own heart skip a beat.


    Luckily, itsted only a moment.


    "Boom~~~!"


    A thunderous p echoed out of nowhere, prompting Zhong Shan to look up. There were no clouds in the sky. Where had the thundere from?


    "Crack~~~!"


    A tremendous noise followed, so powerful that it sent hundred-foot-high waves crashing around Phoenix Ind.


    Under the terrifying roar, a crack appeared in the sky��a real crack, not an atmospheric disturbance, but a fissure in the fabric of space itself.


    A horrifying spatial rift, as if tearing the heavens and earth apart.


    "Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack!"


    A series of thunderous sounds followed, causing the rift to expand, pushing open wider and wider.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan recalled a simr scene from not long ago during the Great Annihtion Event in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, when the Buddha descended with a sacred treasure. The sky had cracked then too, but there had been endless white light. Now, there was only darkness within the spatial rift.


    "Hiss~~~~~~"


    The rift seemed to tear through the sky, yet after the tear, the sky remained unchanged. It was as if nothing had happened, yet everything had changed. It was as though the sky itself was different now.


    Puzzled, Zhong Shan looked down at the valley.


    In the valley, Xuan Yuan stood quietly, his eyes slowly opening. As they did, the nts in the valley began to grow wildly, flowers blossoming rapidly, and the entire valley became vibrant with life. An overwhelming sense of vitality spread out, making even Zhong Shan feel a wave offort.


    "Heavenly, Heavenly, Heavenly Realm!" Zhihuo eximed in astonishment.


    The Heavenly Realm? Xuan Yuan had broken through? Reached the Heavenly Realm? The final stage of the mortal realm?


    At the same time, a massive golden cloud appeared above Xuan Yuan''s head��exactly like the merit cloud Zhong Shan had seen in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    It was as if Heaven itself was rewarding Xuan Yuan with a vast amount of heavenly merit.


    Xuan Yuan looked up at the cloud, took a deep breath, and with a wave of his hand, sent the entire cloud of merit rushing towards Zhong Shan.


    "Thank you, friend, for your guidance. This merit is yours," Xuan Yuan said calmly.


    The vast heavenly merit surged towards Zhong Shan. He had no reason to refuse, especially as it was something he desperately needed.


    Without waiting for Zhong Shan, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail in his Niwan Pce instinctively opened its mouth wide, ready to devour the merit.


    "Hah-wu~~~~~~"


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail gleefully consumed the enormous amount of merit, extremely excited and joyous. Heavenly merit! When had Zhong Shan ever received so much merit before?


    Zhong Shan quickly sat down cross-legged, preparing to let the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail frantically refine the merit.


    Meanwhile, under the powerful celestial phenomenon on Phoenix Ind, countless phoenixes flew towards the southwest corner. More and more phoenixes, increasingly powerful ones, rushed to the southwest, realizing that Xuan Yuan had broken through!


    "Congrattions to Xuan Yuan, friend, on iming a piece of Heaven!" A supremely gentle voice echoed from Tiang Ind.


    Though the voice was soft, it resounded across the entire ind, unmatched in its vastness and power.

 Chapter 445: WuJiuTian

    <h4>Chapter 445: WuJiuTian</h4>


    The Heavenly Realm, a realm blessed by the heavens with immense merit. This merit was vast, rivaling the golden dragon of an imperial dynasty''s luck.


    In the past, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had devoured two luck dragons, but those dragons had been weakened to a fraction of their original strength. This time, however, the merit was full and potent.


    Zhong Shan felt an overwhelming surge of energy enveloping his body, refining it from within. More energy flowed directly to his Purple Mansion Nascent Soul, strengthening it.


    Around his Nascent Soul, streaks of pure white lightning shed, as if limitless energy was being released.


    Merit, vast heavenly merit.


    In an instant, Zhong Shan''s cultivation broke through!


    Nascent Soul Stage! Seventh level!


    Nascent Soul Stage! Eighth level!


    Nascent Soul Stage! Ninth level!


    The immense merit, after being devoured by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, was converted into the most precious energy Zhong Shan needed.


    Zhong Shan felt incredibly fortunate to have made the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail his spiritual root; it was one of his most crucial decisions.


    "Boom~~~~~~"


    A mountain beneath Zhong Shan shattered, sted apart by the vast lightning erupting from within him.


    Nascent Soul Stage! Tenth level! Nascent Soul Grand Completion!


    Zhong Shan opened his eyes, filled with joy. He had advanced four levels! Something he never dared to imagine before.


    As he opened his eyes, his excitement turned to astonishment.


    He was surrounded.


    Countless phoenixes filled the sky, dancing in all directions. Zhihuo stood protectively by his side, while Xuan Yuan hovered in the air nearby, along with a group of elegantly dressed individuals.


    Leading them was an exceptionally beautiful woman, wearing a phoenix crown. Her exquisitely delicate face, with a pair of striking phoenix eyes that seemed to animate the entire world with a mere blink, held an air of sharpness and authority. Her red robes were embroidered with several phoenixes. Behind her stood a group of men and women, all standing respectfully.


    Even the countless phoenixes around showed great reverence for this woman, flying nearby but not daring to overshadow her. Qinghong was also at the end of this group.


    Phoenix Supreme, Wu Jiutian!


    Zhong Shan looked at the group in astonishment, and they looked back at him with the same expression.


    Earlier, as Zhong Shan sat cross-legged, Wu Jiutian''s voice had resonated throughout Phoenix Ind.


    Any powerful phoenix on the ind had immediately flown to this location.


    The Heavenly Realm was vastly different from the Empyrean Realm. Across the Divine Land, there were only a handful of such beings! A Heavenly Realm expert suddenly appearing on Phoenix Ind was enough to draw every phoenix there.


    When Wu Jiutian arrived, she took one look at Xuan Yuan and knew that he had given the heavenly merit to the man sitting cross-legged on the mountain.


    Xuan Yuan bowed slightly to Wu Jiutian, and they both looked towards Zhong Shan on the peak.


    Zhong Shan was extraordinary. The vast merit, absorbed so quickly? How was that possible? Even Xuan Yuan couldn''t absorb it that fast. Devoured?


    A sweep of her divine sense revealed Zhong Shan''s astonishingly poor spiritual roots.


    But even with such poor spiritual roots, the sheer amount of merit should have elevated him to the Imperial Realm at least!


    Yet Zhong Shan''s cultivation had only increased by four levels, stopping at the Nascent Soul Stage''s tenth level. He hadn''t even reached the Fusion Stage.


    "Friend, you have an incredibly solid foundation!" Xuan Yuan finally said after a moment, breaking the silence.


    "Thank you, Senior!" Zhong Shan replied respectfully.


    "It''s I who should thank you! Without your guidance, I wouldn''t have reached the Heavenly Realm," Xuan Yuan responded.


    Wu Jiutian, who had been observing Zhong Shan, spoke up next. "Who are you?" she asked.


    "I am Zhong Shan of the Great Zheng Dynasty. Greetings to the Supreme of the Phoenix n!" Zhong Shan replied, offering a peer salute to Wu Jiutian.


    The gesture left everyone slightly shocked. Zhong Shan had shown respect as a junior to Xuan Yuan but treated the Phoenix Supreme as an equal.


    "The Great Zheng Dynasty?" Wu Jiutian frowned.


    "I have had the honor of forming a summoning contract with the wolf n. Zhong Shan greets Wu Jiutian," Zhong Shan said again.


    It was clear that Zhong Shan''s junior salute to Xuan Yuan was due to his lower cultivation, whereas his peer salute to Wu Jiutian was due to his status.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha actually contracted with you?" Wu Jiutian''s eyes shed with disbelief, mixed with disdain. This bone structure? How could Emperor Xuan Sha sign a contract with someone like this?


    "Tiandi Qian Kun, zing Fire Wolf General!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    "Boom!"


    As the summoning smoke dissipated, Zhihuo vanished from his original spot and reappeared at Zhong Shan''s side. The distance covered was less than five meters, but the movement wasn''t due to Zhihuo''s speed. It was spatial travel, a summoning!


    Witnessing this, Wu Jiutian''s eyes narrowed.


    "What brings you here?" Wu Jiutian asked, implicitly acknowledging Zhong Shan''s equal status.


    "I have a request," Zhong Shan said earnestly.


    "Oh?"


    "My wife, Tian Ling''er, has had a segment of her memory sealed by you. I humbly request that the Supreme lift this seal," Zhong Shan pleaded.


    "Tian Ling''er? Memory seal? Why should I help you?" Wu Jiutian replied coldly.


    "I understand that using the ''Phoenix Song of Nine Heavens'' is detrimental to you. Recently, I acquired a spiritual pill, and I am willing to offer it aspensation for your loss," Zhong Shan proposed.


    "A spiritual pill?" Wu Jiutian showed a hint of disdain.


    "The Mingyuan Pill," Zhong Shan said.


    The moment Zhong Shan mentioned the Mingyuan Pill, both Wu Jiutian and Xuan Yuan''s pupils contracted, indicating their recognition of its value, while the other phoenixes, in human form, looked confused.


    The Mingyuan Pill? They had never heard of it.


    Wu Jiutian''s eyes shed with doubt.


    "The Mingyuan Pill is in the capital of Lihuo. I havebeled it as the ''Elixir of Immortality.'' If you don''t believe me, you can ask Qinghong. She has seen the Mingyuan Pill," Zhong Shan exined with a smile.


    Qinghong immediately waved her hand, using a spell to project the image of the Mingyuan Pill.


    "Supreme, this is what I saw, and Nie Fancheng also said it could extend life by a thousand years!" Qinghong confirmed.


    The mention of a thousand-year lifespan caused a stir among the phoenixes present.


    Wu Jiutian''s gaze bore into Zhong Shan, trying to read him thoroughly.


    "You may not need the Mingyuan Pill, but the one enduring the reversal of time in Lihuo certainly does. Please, lift Tian Ling''er''s seal, and I will personally deliver the Mingyuan Pill to you," Zhong Shan implored.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s subtle words, Wu Jiutian''s eyes turned cold.


    "Please, Supreme Phoenix, grant this favor!" Zhong Shan pleaded earnestly once more.


    "There''s no need! As for Tian Ling''er''s seal, she will naturally be able to break it herself when her cultivation is sufficient," Wu Jiutian replied.


    Break it herself? Anger shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes. Sufficient cultivation? That meant surpassing Wu Jiutian. Though Ling''er had the talent, she didn''t have the time.


    "In that case, I won''t insist," Zhong Shan said, flicking his sleeve.


    As Zhong Shan looked at the Phoenix Supreme, his gaze was no longer as respectful. He had his methods��if she wouldn''t take the polite approach, she would have to deal with the consequences. Only Zhong Shan would dare to think this boldly. If Wu Jiutian knew his thoughts, she would have crushed him instantly.


    "Xuan Yuan, since you have ovee your heart''s obstacles, why note to my Phoenix Pce? I will host a celebration for your breakthrough," Wu Jiutian said, ignoring Zhong Shan and addressing Xuan Yuan.


    Xuan Yuan bowed slightly. "Thank you, but I have just broken through and need some time toprehend my new state. I will visit the Phoenix Pce another day to express my gratitude. Here is the Nirvana Fire Pool."


    "Very well," Wu Jiutian epted the pool with a nod.


    She then nodded to Xuan Yuan and disappeared with a step. She never looked at Zhong Shan again.


    The other phoenixes also bowed to Xuan Yuan and quickly flew away, leaving only Qinghong behind.


    In the blink of an eye, the sky was cleared of phoenixes.


    "Thank you, Senior Xuan Yuan. If it weren''t for you, the Phoenix Supreme wouldn''t have spoken so calmly with me," Zhong Shan said sincerely.


    "Oh? You think it was because of me?" Xuan Yuan smiled.


    "Of course," Zhong Shan replied.


    "You overestimate me! I have only just entered the Heavenly Realm, while Wu Jiutian has been in the Heavenly Realm for many years. Even if she respects me, it wouldn''t be to such an extent," Xuan Yuan said.


    Xuan Yuan gestured for Zhong Shan to follow him into the valley. Zhong Shan waved for Zhihuo and Qinghong to stay back and followed Xuan Yuan.


    In the valley, Xuan Yuan waved his sleeve, and the surroundings transformed into a serene setting with stone tables and benches by a small stream.


    "Please," Xuan Yuan invited.


    "After you," Zhong Shan responded.


    "Since you are on par with Emperor Xuan Sha, you need not call me ''Senior.'' Just call me Xuan Yuan," Xuan Yuan said.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Knowledgees with experience, and the aplished are teachers. I still have much to learn from you. Wu Jiutian is an extremely proud Supreme. Do you know why she spoke to you as an equal?" Xuan Yuan asked with a smile.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    Indeed, despite his high status, his cultivation was still weak. For Wu Jiutian to lower herself, it had to be out of respect for someone else, either Xuan Yuan or Emperor Xuan Sha.


    "Yes, it is because of Emperor Xuan Sha," Xuan Yuan confirmed.


    "Does he hold such sway?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    He couldn''t imagine that Emperor Xuan Sha''s influence extended even to Phoenix Ind. How could that be possible?


    "Do you know the strongest race in this world?"


    "The dragon n!"


    "The dragon n? They were indeed the strongest in the past. The dragon n was incredibly powerful, and their Supreme was unrivaled. His wrath alone could annihte an entire n. Among the beast ns, the dragon n held absolute dominance. But for some reason, they had a conflict with the wolf n. Do you know the result?" Xuan Yuan asked with a smile.


    "What was the result?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "The Supreme of the dragon n became an immortal," Xuan Yuan said.


    "Huh?"


    "Or rather, Emperor Xuan Sha forced him to be an immortal, driving him out of this world. The dragon n Supreme could no longer protect his n, leading to a significant decline for the dragon n. If Emperor Xuan Sha had pursued further, the dragon n might have faced extinction," Xuan Yuan exined.

 Chapter 446: Uprising

    <h4>Chapter 446: Uprising</h4>


    "Or rather, Emperor Xuan Sha forced him to ascend, driving him out of this realm. Without his protection, the dragon n experienced a significant decline. If Emperor Xuan Sha hadn''t stopped his pursuit, the dragon n might have faced extinction," Xuan Yuan continued, recounting the history of Emperor Xuan Sha.


    Zhong Shan was left in awe. "Is Emperor Xuan Sha really that powerful?" he asked in disbelief.


    "You''ll understand how powerful he is when your cultivation is sufficient. The fact that even Wu Jiutian, with her nearing readiness to withstand heavenly tribtions, avoids provoking him speaks volumes," Xuan Yuan said.


    "Wu Jiutian is preparing to withstand heavenly tribtions?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    Withstanding heavenly tribtions meant facing the cmities of heaven to ascend to immortality.


    "In less than thirty years," Xuan Yuan replied after some thought.


    "No wonder she refuses to use the Phoenix Song of Nine Heavens. Depleting her energy would make facing the tribtion more difficult," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "I only learned of it recently. It''s puzzling why she''s in such a hurry. Normally, waiting another two thousand years to face the tribtion wouldn''t be toote. But Wu Jiutian seems very anxious," Xuan Yuan remarked.


    Why? Zhong Shan pondered.


    Why indeed? It was for Suzaku. If she seeded in her tribtion and achieved immortality, she could enter the so-called immortal realm and take Suzaku with her.


    "Thank you for your guidance, Xuan Yuan," Zhong Shan said.


    "It''s a small matterpared to your help in resolving my heart''s obstacles," Xuan Yuan replied.


    Zhong Shan considered for a moment and then said, "Speaking of which, I have a request for your help, Xuan Yuan."


    "Oh?" Xuan Yuan looked at him with slight surprise.


    "I would like to request your protection for me and a few friends for six months," Zhong Shan said.


    "What?" Xuan Yuan was slightly taken aback.


    "Protection?"


    "You''ve helped me break through, saving me more than six months of effort and clearing my mind. Protecting you for six months is no issue. But why would you need protection?" Xuan Yuan asked.


    "I''m nning to provoke two Heavenly Realm experts," Zhong Shan said.


    After he spoke, Xuan Yuan''s jaw dropped. Provoke two Heavenly Realm experts? It couldn''t be him, so it had to be two other Heavenly Realm experts? This Zhong Shan sure knew how to stir up trouble.


    During Zhong Shan and Xuan Yuan''s conversation, two major events urred in the capital of Lihuo.


    First, the Southern Ming Tribute Hall suddenly closed its doors.


    The Viewing Pavilion was no longer open to the public. Effective immediately, all exhibitions were halted.


    As soon as the news broke, the long queues outside erupted in protest. The area outside the Southern Ming Tribute Hall became packed with angry people. For months, the capital of Lihuo had maintained this orderly queuing system, and now it was abruptly stopped. No one could adapt to such a sudden change.


    "What do you mean it''s closed?"


    "I just arrived in the capital and haven''t seen the Elixir of Immortality yet!"


    "Open the doors!" "Open the doors!"


    "I only got a whiff! Open the doors, we need to see more!"


    "I want the Elixir of Immortality!"


    ...


    In an instant, it seemed like the entire capital had rushed there, everyone filled with rage. Before, even if they couldn''t obtain the elixir, they could still see it. Despite the difficulties and the humiliation of queuing, they could at least get a glimpse and a sniff.


    But now, how could they stop it so abruptly?


    Especially those close to the Southern Ming Tribute Hall. It had been an arduous journey for them, enduring endless hardships for over a month, not even able to go to the bathroom. Finally, they had reached the front of the hall, and now it was closed?


    The crowd''s fury was palpable as the Southern Ming Tribute Hall was surroundedyer uponyer, with tens of millions, even billions of people converging. Such an immense number of people reflected an unimaginable level of anger.


    "Everyone!" Shui Wuhen''s voice rang out loudly from outside the Southern Ming Tribute Hall.


    His shout brought silence to the crowd, for Shui Wuhen represented the organizers of the Elixir of Immortality exhibition.


    Standing in the za before the hall, Shui Wuhen looked at the sea of people, his heart pounding. Swallowing nervously, he gathered his courage and spoke, "Everyone, it''s not that we don''t want to continue the exhibition. We simply have no choice!"


    The crowd watched him intently, their expressions heavy.


    "Just a moment ago, someone attacked! A Royal Realm expert struck and shattered the metal cage you all saw earlier. If it weren''t for a few of us sacrificing ourselves to protect the Elixir of Immortality, it would have been consumed by now," Shui Wuhen said with a distressed look.


    "Who? Who did it?" the crowd roared in anger.


    "Who dares to take it before us?"


    "I recognize that person! He is a disciple of the Perfumed Buddha. He even imed that his master would soone to seize the Elixir of Immortality!" Shui Wuhen continued, not directly answering but pushing the narrative.


    "Perfumed Buddha?"


    "That wretched old nun!"


    "That scoundrel! It''s all her fault!"


    By naming a specific enemy, Shui Wuhen redirected much of the crowd''s anger towards Zhong Shan''s nemesis. It didn''t matter if it was truly the Perfumed Buddha; as long as they followed the marshal''s orders to ce the me on her, it served their purpose.


    "We want you to see it just as much as you do. One spirit stone per person adds up, and who would refuse more spirit stones? But no amount of spirit stones is worth the safety of the Elixir of Immortality. To prevent the Perfumed Buddha from stealing it, we have no choice but to apologize to you all," Shui Wuhen exined.


    "Perfumed Buddha is Perfumed Buddha, and we are us. Why should we be punished as well?"


    "Yes, why should we suffer for that old nun''s mistakes?"


    The crowd''sints filled the air, but Shui Wuhen had provided a vent for their anger.


    "We will have to wait for the marshal to return to make any further decisions!" Shui Wuhen said, spreading his hands to indicate that he had done all he could.


    Many believed Shui Wuhen, but even more were skeptical. The Elixir of Immortality had attracted them to the capital of Lihuo for one reason: to seize it. Over the months, their intentions had shifted. From initially fierce and determined, they had turned into docile queue-goers. Why had they endured such humiliation?


    They were here to seize it!


    "Boom!"


    A massive explosion suddenly struck one of the formation shields protecting the Southern Ming Tribute Hall.


    This attack acted as a signal.


    The surroundingyers of powerful individuals began to frantically assault the outer formations of the Southern Ming Tribute Hall.


    "Boom! Boom!"


    The relentless, thunderous explosions continued unabated, each one louder and more powerful than thest. The sight of billions of strong cultivators attacking was terrifying beyond imagination.


    Shui Wuhen and his army fled outside, knowing they did not possess the Elixir of Immortality. The attackers had scanned them countless times with their divine senses, confirming this.


    "Boom!"


    The explosions made the entire capital of Lihuo shake as if it were under siege. The Southern Ming Tribute Hall was situated near the pce, causing the volcanic mountain beneath the Lihuo Sacred Hall to erupt in waves of magma.


    In the morning court session at the Lihuo Sacred Hall, officials reported on the affairs of the Great Li Dynasty to Nie Fancheng.


    "Your Majesty, in..."


    "Boom!"


    A massive explosion interrupted the report, its sounding from outside the hall. The Lihuo Sacred Hall, the primary hall of the Great Li Dynasty, remained unmoved, but the magma beneath it churned violently.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The continuous explosions filled the court officials with dread. Could a Heavenly Realm expert be attacking the capital of Lihuo? The noise was immense.


    As the terrifying sounds continued, Nie Fancheng''s eyes turned cold, immediately understanding the situation.


    "Booming!"


    Dark clouds rolled across the sky above the capital of Lihuo, thunder roaring. The ominous sound signaled the emperor''s fury, an intense and terrifying anger.


    "Boom!"


    The outer formations of the Southern Ming Tribute Hall shattered with a deafening explosion. Countless powerful individuals swarmed into the hall.


    In a dark corner outside the Treasure Viewing Pavilion within the Southern Ming Tribute Hall, a pair of eyes suddenly opened, ring at the invaders. This was not Mr. Corpse, but a powerful guardian sent by Nie Fancheng to secretly protect the Mingyuan Pill.


    The guardian was furious at the chaos outside. However, at that exact moment, Mr. Corpse, inside the Treasure Viewing Pavilion, smiled with a sinister satisfaction, as if his n had seeded.


    Then, in an instant, both he and the Mingyuan Pill vanished.


    By the time the guardian realized what had happened, Mr. Corpse and the Mingyuan Pill were gone. The guardian''s eyes filled with boundless rage.

 Chapter 447: Chaos in All Directions Over the Elixir of Immortality, Zhong Shan鈥檚 Cunning Scheme

    <h4>Chapter 447: Chaos in All Directions Over the Elixir of Immortality, Zhong Shan''s Cunning Scheme</h4>


    "Outrageous!"


    The moment Mr. Corpse vanished with the Mingyuan Pill, the hidden expert erupted in fury. This hidden expert, though rarely seen andrgely unknown, held a position in the Great Li Dynasty akin to that of a shadow emperor, simr to the Dark Emperor in the Great Zheng Dynasty��a supreme figure hidden within the shadows of the dynasty.


    His strength was undeniable, his presence overwhelming. His purpose was to guard the Mingyuan Pill, not just from spectators but also from its original owner. In his mind, the pill already belonged to the Great Li Dynasty, and he only needed to guard it for a while.


    Yet, in just a moment of distraction, it was gone! This was an unbearable disgrace for the hidden expert. In this world, apart from a Heavenly Realm expert, no one could take something under his watch. And Mr. Corpse, merely at the peak of the Nascent Soul stage, had taken it?


    His roar of fury carried immense power. The first wave of a million attackers felt a shockwave through their souls, almost losing their senses.


    The roar was too powerful, immediately waking most of the attackers. Many were terrified and turned to flee, while those behind continued to push forward, creating chaos.


    The hidden expert''s expression tightened as he fully expanded his divine sense, knowing the Mingyuan Pill couldn''t be stored in a spatial ring unless it was consumed. As long as his divine sense found it, he could retrieve it.


    However, he noticed that the metal dome which had previously covered the Mingyuan Pill was emitting faint ripples, blocking his divine sense from prating underground.


    With a wave of his right hand:


    "Boom!"


    The Treasure Viewing Pavilion was instantly dismantled, itsponents scattering in all directions, revealing the central metal dome.


    The chaotic crowd outside fell silent, staring at the exposed center.


    Where was the Elixir of Immortality? Was it stolen?


    "Boom!"


    Nie Fancheng''s wrath manifested as a celestial phenomenon, with countless thunderclouds rolling over the Southern Ming Tribute Hall.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Endless bolts of lightning descended, transforming the sky above the Southern Ming Tribute Hall into a hellish storm of thunder.


    The terrifying heavenly power, the terrifying wrath of Nie Fancheng, forced everyone to quickly raise their defenses.


    Thunder roared and crackled continuously, a torrent of lightning pouring down like a breached dam, cascading from the heavens.


    "Boom!"


    "Ahhhhhhh!"


    "Help!"


    "Oh my god!"


    "Mommy!"


    The sky was filled with screams as the relentless lightning struck down upon the attackers. The overwhelming force of Nie Fancheng''s fury and the heavenly might was too much for many to withstand.


    In the midst of the chaos, Zhong Shan''s cunning scheme began to unfold. As the chaos outside continued to grow, Zhong Shan and his group took advantage of the situation, nning their next moves strategically.


    At the same time, within the Lihuo Sacred Hall, the court officials were in a state of panic. The magnitude of the disturbances outside made it clear that something dire was urring.


    "Your Majesty, what should we do?" an official asked, his voice trembling.


    Nie Fancheng''s eyes glowed with a cold fury. "Find the Mingyuan Pill! Capture anyone involved in this treachery! Show no mercy!"


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" the officials responded, quickly dispersing to execute his orders.


    The storm of chaos was only beginning, and Zhong Shan''s deep plot to manipte the heroes of the world was just starting to take effect.


    Nie Fancheng''s rage was terrifying. Above the Southern Ming Tribute Hall, endless screams and cries echoed. Torrents of heavenly lightning rained down like waterfalls, instantly killing countless lower-level cultivators.


    Those with slightly higher cultivation struggled desperately to escape, while only the most formidable warriors continued to push towards the center.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Eight thunderous explosions erupted within the lightning storm, creating violent collisions that generated massive shockwaves. The surrounding mountains crumbled, buildings shattered, and the sheer force of the impact caused even the most determined attackers to cough up blood as their internal organs shifted.


    The immense power of these eight strikes shattered the confidence of almost everyone trying to advance. The lightning waterfalls were blown apart, and the surrounding space seemed to shake violently.


    Now, there was only one thought in everyone''s mind: flee, flee quickly. The danger was too immense. The Elixir of Immortality was valuable, but it was worthless if they lost their lives. How could one achieve immortality if they were dead?


    They fled far away before daring to look back, and the sight filled them with dread.


    The eight thunderous explosions had clearly been caused by eight peerless experts. Hovering in the sky, these eight figures stared at each other with intense focus and shock.


    These eight were all Empyrean Realm powerhouses, legendary figures who hade to seize the Elixir of Immortality. Despite their vast lifespans, even Empyrean Realm experts sought an additional thousand years of life.


    "Perfumed Buddha?" someone suddenly pointed out.


    Among the eight was indeed the Perfumed Buddha. Shui Wuhen had followed Zhong Shan''s instructions to ce the me on her, and she had truly shown up. What a twist of fate!


    "Damn Perfumed Buddha, if it weren''t for you, I''d already have seen the Elixir of Immortality!"


    "It''s really her, the old pervert!"


    "Perfumed old dog!"


    "Perfumed old hag!"


    The eight peerless experts had each struck a blow, and now they watched their opponent warily.


    In a purple eunuch robe, holding a horsetail whisk, the elderly eunuch coldly eyed the eight. He alone had withstood thebined attacks of these eight experts, matching them blow for blow. This eunuch was the same one who had summoned Zhong Shan earlier, a trusted confidant of Nie Fancheng, and the chief eunuch, immensely powerful.


    The eight Empyrean Realm experts were filled with uncertainty, while the eunuch stared coldly at them. Below, a ck-robed expert who had been lurking there red up at them.


    "Boom!"


    The hidden expert struck the metal dome with a powerful palm, aiming to destroy it and use his divine sense to locate Mr. Corpse. The impact caused a thunderous rumble that echoed across half of the capital of Lihuo.


    "Buzz!"


    The metal dome suddenly emitted an endless blue light, a vast and boundless radiance that instantly repelled the hidden expert''s palm strike.


    The immense blue light formed a protective barrier, and the hidden expert''s attack was deflected, leaving him seething with rage. Theplex situation was now a mix of powerful figures and intricate plots, with everyone striving to secure the Elixir of Immortality. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan''s cunning n continued to unfold, manipting the chaos to his advantage.


    The metal dome was destroyed.


    But in its ce, a blue rune suddenly appeared, trembling slightly as if it had sealed the earth itself, blocking all divine senses from prating further. It wasn''t the metal dome that had blocked the hidden expert, but this immense blue rune.


    A rune of immense power, vast and overwhelming.


    The crowd stared at the rune, feeling an unrelenting sense of dread emanating from it. The fear was pervasive, enveloping everyone present. It seemed the rune was slowly fading.


    In the sky, the eight peerless experts gazed at the rune in shock. What kind of rune was this? Such formidable power!


    Before they realized it, a figure wearing an imperial crown appeared before the rune.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty!" both the hidden expert and the elderly eunuch bowed respectfully.


    Arge number of guards arrived, quickly driving away the people outside the Southern Ming Tribute Hall. The Great Li Dynasty''s army intervened, swiftly expelling the terrified crowd, ensuring no one could approach the center of the Southern Ming Tribute Hall.


    Nie Fancheng himself had arrived!


    The moment the eight peerless experts in the sky saw Nie Fancheng, they knew their efforts were in vain. Bowing respectfully to him, they turned and shot away like shooting stars.


    No one dared to anger the Great Li Emperor, for this entire realm was under Nie Fancheng''s dominion.


    Ignoring everyone else, Nie Fancheng stared coldly at the blue rune, which continued to pulse and shift. His eyes were filled with intense gravity, an immense seriousness.


    It took half an hour for the blue rune to gradually dissipate, allowing divine senses to prate the earth once more.


    But Nie Fancheng had vanished. The elderly eunuch and the hidden expert were also gone.


    Countless guards surrounded the Southern Ming Tribute Hall, preventing anyone from entering. The once grand hall was now a heap of ruins; the internal valley, buildings, and everything else had been reduced to dust by the powerful experts. A gust of wind blew, stirring up a cloud of dust.


    In the Lihuo Sacred Hall, Nie Fancheng stood before the elderly eunuch and the hidden expert.


    "Your Majesty, this was all part of Zhong Shan''s scheme. He nned for Mr. Corpse to escape with the Mingyuan Pill from the very beginning," the hidden expert quickly reported.


    "Indeed, Your Majesty. At the moment of the incident, everyone inside the Southern Ming Tribute Hall had already left. It was all a y orchestrated by Zhong Shan," the elderly eunuch added.


    "Your Majesty, Zhong Shan is incredibly dangerous. From the moment he entered the capital of Lihuo, he began plotting. Everything from the paid exhibition to this recent chaos was his doing. He used us to distract the millions of people, allowing Mr. Corpse to escape with the Mingyuan Pill. In the eyes of everyone, the pill was stolen, while Zhong Shan remains seemingly uninvolved," the hidden expert continued, frowning.


    "Zhong Shan''s schemes are not small," the elderly eunuch agreed, sighing.


    "What is Zhong Shan''s true objective behind such a massive disturbance?" the hidden expert wondered, furrowing his brow again.

 Chapter 448: The Second Major Event

    <h4>Chapter 448: The Second Major Event</h4>


    What was Zhong Shan plotting? For Nie Fancheng, it no longer mattered, as he had seen something far more important.


    "Are they still in the capital of Lihuo?" Nie Fancheng asked softly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. Except for Mr. Corpse, who disappeared with the Mingyuan Pill, everyone else is still in the capital. They have no intention of leaving," the elderly eunuch replied.


    "Your Majesty, could Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse have abandoned the Zhong Family Army and left?" the hidden expert asked.


    "Unlikely. He still needs to take Princess Ling''er with him. As long as she is here, Zhong Shan wille back," the elderly eunuch exined.


    "You, go and ensure Princess Ling''er''s safety. Do not let any more incidents ur!" Nie Fancheng ordered, revealing he had another card to y.


    "Yes!" the hidden expert responded immediately before retreating and disappearing.


    "You are to gather all avable information on Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse. I want detailed records of their family history, at least three generations back, without any omissions," Nie Fancheng instructed the elderly eunuch.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" the elderly eunuch acknowledged, sensing the gravity of the situation.


    "Your Majesty, did you notice something unusual?" the elderly eunuch asked.


    Taking a deep breath, Nie Fancheng replied, "Yes. Did you see that rune earlier?"


    "Yes," the elderly eunuch nodded.


    "That rune shouldn''t exist in this world. It doesn''t belong to this realm!" Nie Fancheng said gravely.


    The elderly eunuch''s eyes widened in shock, understanding why Nie Fancheng was so concerned.


    "Reassign Zhong Shan''s troop to a new location and wait for his return," Nie Fanchengmanded.


    "Yes!"


    Soon, the Zhong Family Army was relocated to a new residence.


    Meanwhile, countless powerful figures in the capital of Lihuo slowly recovered from the earlier shock, their minds racing with thoughts.


    Where was the Elixir of Immortality? Had it been stolen? Was it the Perfumed Buddha? That scoundrel! If not for her, the elixir wouldn''t have been lost.


    Many harbored intense hatred towards the Perfumed Buddha. She had indeed shown up earlier, making her the prime suspect.


    However, many astute individuals believed the elixir was still in the hands of the Zhong Family Army, still with Zhong Shan. After all, they had seen the army calmly relocating as if nothing had happened.


    Such calmness suggested the elixir hadn''t been lost. So where was it? In the new residence? Impossible. Who would be that foolish with so many eyes watching?


    But if the elixir was with the Zhong Family Army, finding Zhong Shan was the key. As long as Zhong Shan was found, the elixir would be with him, as it originally belonged to him.


    Zhong Shan? It seemed there hadn''t been any news of him for a while.


    In a tavern in the capital of Lihuo:


    "Do you know where Zhong Shan is?"


    "Zhong Shan isn''t at the new residence."


    "Zhong Shan has been missing for a month. He must have escaped with the Elixir of Immortality."


    "Are you out of your mind? If Zhong Shan had escaped with the elixir a month ago, what did you see a few days ago?"


    "With so many eyes watching, if not for the Perfumed Buddha causing trouble, the elixir wouldn''t have vanished from under everyone''s noses. It probably wasn''t Zhong Shan who took it."


    "However, the item will eventually be in Zhong Shan''s possession. Find him, and you''ll find the Elixir of Immortality."


    "But Zhong Shan is missing!"


    "No, I know!" A voice suddenly came from the corner, where a man in white was sitting.


    "Swish!"


    Everyone''s gaze turned to the man in white, and many prepared their magical artifacts, ready to seize him if necessary.


    Seeing their reactions, the man in white felt a chill in his heart and immediately regretted his impulsive words.


    "I know Zhong Shan wille back!" the man quickly exined.


    "Oh? What makes you say that, young man?" someone asked.


    Everyone else looked at him intently.


    "Don''t you remember the blessing messages? Who were they written for?" the man in white said.


    "Oh, I remember now! It was for Princess Ling''er, for the martialpetition four monthster when Zhong Shan nned to propose!" someone suddenly eximed.


    "Exactly, there''s about a month left. Zhong Shan will definitelye back for thepetition. When that happens, the Elixir of Immortality will reappear," the man in white said immediately.


    "Right, Zhong Shan will return in about a month!" the other person said excitedly.


    Everyone nodded in agreement.


    The uing martialpetition suddenly drew the attention of millions. The entire capital of Lihuo focused on this event, all eyes on Zhong Shan''s marriage. Zhong Shan''s n from years ago to attract widespread attention and take Ling''er with him was taking a significant step forward. Widespread attention? It had now be the focus of billions!


    This was the first major event happening in the capital of Lihuo.


    As for the second major event, it was far more serious, though hidden from public view.


    This story began before Zhong Shan''s audience with Nie Fancheng. When Zhong Shan first arrived in the capital of Lihuo, he visited Nie Qingqing''s residence to see Tian Ling''er and spent those days recounting their past stories to her.


    On the first day of storytelling, Mr. Corpse immediately recognized the Suzaku that Zhong Shan had conjured using a spell, prompting Zhong Shan to devise a series of long-term ns.


    Over the next two days, Zhong Shan mixed a few fake Gathering Fire Rice grains into Suzaku''s Gathering Fire Rice.


    Now the time hade. Hidden in a certain location, Mr. Corpse began casting a spell ording to Zhong Shan''s calcted timing.


    With a slight movement of his hands, he quickly activated the spell.


    The effect was immediate.


    At Princess Ling''er''s residence, Nie Qingqing apanied Tian Ling''er.


    "Sister, Zhong Shan still hasn''te. Why not?" Tian Ling''er pouted, feeling aggrieved.


    "He wille back!" Nie Qingqing consoled her.


    "There was chaos at the Southern Ming Tribute Hall yesterday, and he didn''t show up. They say the Elixir of Immortality is gone. What will Zhong Shan do now?" Tian Ling''er said.


    "Aren''t you worried about your senior brother?" Nie Qingqing teased.


    Hearing Nie Qingqing''s words, Tian Ling''er''s face turned red, and she said shyly, "Senior brother is just my senior brother, but Zhong Shan is... Zhong Shan is..."


    "What is he? Is he your husband?" Nie Qingqing teased further.


    "Sister!" Tian Ling''er said, yfully hitting Nie Qingqing, her face turning bright red as if it had been steamed.


    "Hahaha!" Nie Qingqingughed.


    In her heart, Nie Qingqing was also impressed by Zhong Shan. His gifts were truly remarkable. Over these days, Tian Ling''er had been holding onto the book "The Adventures of Zhong Shan and Ling''er" and had not let go of it for a moment.


    "But, what if... what if he doesn''te?" Tian Ling''er asked again, worry evident in her voice.


    "Do you trust him?" Nie Qingqing asked.


    "Yes!" Tian Ling''er nodded emphatically.


    "If he said he would participate in the martialpetition, do you think he wille?" Nie Qingqing asked.


    "He will definitelye," Tian Ling''er replied immediately.


    At that moment, the little Suzaku on the table in front of them suddenly began to chirp frantically.


    "Chirp, chirp, chirp, chirp!"


    "Little Red, what''s wrong?" Tian Ling''er quickly picked up the panicking bird.


    The Suzaku continued to chirp loudly in panic, and as Tian Ling''er held it, she suddenly noticed something rming.


    "Ah, Little Red!" Tian Ling''er screamed.


    She realized that a handful of red feathers hade loose in her hand. The Suzaku was losing its feathers, more and more falling out uncontrobly.


    "Chirp, chirp, chirp, chirp, chirp!"


    "What do we do? What''s happening? What''s wrong with Little Red?" Tian Ling''er cried out.


    In a matter of moments, the Suzaku was almost entirely bald, save for the long feather on its head. The bird looked terrified and bewildered, as if it had been stripped bare.


    Tian Ling''er was frightened, Nie Qingqing was shocked.


    "Sister, what do we do? Little Red has lost all its feathers. Will it die? Why is this happening?" Tian Ling''er screamed in terror.


    During her time in the capital of Lihuo, apart from Nie Qingqing, the Suzaku had been Tian Ling''er''s closestpanion. Now, with this sudden condition, how could she not be terrified and worried?


    "Don''t worry, don''t worry. I''ll find someone!" Nie Qingqing quickly said and ran out.


    Tian Ling''er was left holding the pitiful, featherless Suzaku, looking extremely worried.


    Meanwhile, in a secluded corner, Mr. Corpse exhaled a long breath.


    "Reversing time? Reversing time can be elerated. Little Suzaku only has six months left to live. I hope everything goes well for His Majesty," Mr. Corpse muttered, ncing at the Mingyuan Pill in his hand with a faint smile.


    At the same time, on Phoenix Ind, within the Phoenix Pce.


    In a sun-drenched location with rolling magma, Wu Jiutian sat cross-legged above the flowing magma. Her eyes were closed, absorbing the energy from the magma.


    Suddenly, Wu Jiutian''s eyes shot open, filled with endless killing intent.


    The temperature in the pce plummeted. The terrifying killing intent from Wu Jiutian''s eyes caused the magma below to freeze instantly. The entire pool of magma turned to ice with just a nce, emanating from her sheer fury.


    "Boom!"


    On Phoenix Ind, lightning suddenly shed, dark clouds covered the sky, and a massive amount of lightning and fire spewed from the clouds, demonstrating the overwhelming anger of the ind''s master, Wu Jiutian. Her powerful rage caused immense disturbances in the surrounding environment.

 Chapter 449: People Are Not Always What They Seem

    <h4>Chapter 449: People Are Not Always What They Seem</h4>


    Wu Jiutian''s eyes red with fury, the coldness in them freezing the entire pce in an instant. The rolling thunderclouds above the sky mirrored Wu Jiutian''s boundless anger.


    "Who?" Wu Jiutian demanded coldly.


    With a swift movement, Wu Jiutian''s figure disappeared from the spot.


    On Phoenix Ind, the sky changed rapidly, lightning shing in and out with astonishing speed.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan stood in Xuan Yuan''s valley, a satisfied smile ying on his lips.


    "Was it you who angered Wu Jiutian?" Xuan Yuan asked, slightly surprised.


    "This is just the beginning. Next, I will need your help, Xuan Yuan," Zhong Shan said.


    "There are only a few Heavenly Realm experts in the Divine Land. You''ve managed to provoke two of them. Even though I don''t know which two, any pair would be enough to make your name known throughout thend. Since I agreed, I won''t go back on my word. Rest assured, for six months," Xuan Yuan said, deeply impressed.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    Xuan Yuan nodded.


    Turning his head, Zhong Shan looked at Zhihuo and Qinghong.


    The two were still staring at the sky where the clouds had just dissipated, filled with astonishment.


    "Zhihuo!" Zhong Shan called.


    "Your Majesty!" Zhihuo immediately flew over.


    "You and Qinghong should return to the capital of Lihuo now and assist Lin Xiao," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhihuo responded promptly.


    He quickly took Qinghong with him, heading back to the capital of Lihuo. As for Zhong Shan''s safety, Zhihuo was no longer worried. With Xuan Yuan around, who could touch Zhong Shan? Even if Wu Jiutian sought trouble, Xuan Yuan could still protect Zhong Shan by escaping.


    Wu Jiutian''s destination was indeed the capital of Lihuo.


    A Heavenly Realm expert, one of the strongest in the world, could move at astonishing speeds.


    In just one day, Wu Jiutian arrived in the capital of Lihuo, appearing instantly before the Suzaku.


    "Wu sister, look at Little Red. What happened to her? Why is she like this?" Tian Ling''er asked, tears filling her eyes.


    Wu Jiutian picked up the featherless Suzaku, examining it closely. Her expression fluctuated between light and dark. The little Suzaku, upon meeting Wu Jiutian, behaved very obediently, without any resistance, though it seemed slightly listless.


    "Six months? Only six months left?" Wu Jiutian''s face showed a mix of anger and worry.


    "Wu sister, will Little Red be okay?" Tian Ling''er asked, her concern evident.


    "Take good care of it. It will only thrive by your side," Wu Jiutian said solemnly, handing the Suzaku back to Tian Ling''er.


    "But what about Little Red...?" Tian Ling''er asked, still worried.


    At this moment, Wu Jiutian looked at Tian Ling''er with aplex expression in her eyes.


    "Don''t worry. As long as it has you, it will be fine," Wu Jiutian reassured her.


    "Okay!" Tian Ling''er nodded.


    With a step, Wu Jiutian vanished from Princess Ling''er''s residence.


    Just then, Nie Qingqing rushed in.


    "Ling''er, what happened just now? Why was there such a strong barrier around the residence? I couldn''t get in!" Nie Qingqing asked, frowning.


    "Uh? I don''t know!" Tian Ling''er replied, bewildered.


    "Who came here?" Nie Qingqing asked.


    "Wu sister said Little Red will be fine," Tian Ling''er said.


    "Wu sister? Which Wu sister?" Nie Qingqing asked, puzzled.


    "The one we saw at the Phoenix Pcest time. Don''t you remember? She was the one who gave Little Red to me," Tian Ling''er recalled.


    Hearing Tian Ling''er''s words, Nie Qingqing''s face stiffened. The Phoenix Supreme?


    "What''s wrong?" Tian Ling''er asked, confused by Nie Qingqing''s reaction.


    "Nothing, nothing!" Nie Qingqing replied with a peculiar expression.


    Wu sister? Perhaps Tian Ling''er was the only person in the world with the privilege to address the Phoenix Supreme this way.


    After leaving Suzaku, Wu Jiutian swiftly flew to a building.


    "Greetings, Supreme!" Seven or eight people bowed simultaneously to Wu Jiutian. They all had amon trait: phoenix eyes, regardless of their gender, with multicolored eyshes indicating they were Phoenix Generals.


    "Is there a Mingyuan Pill in the capital of Lihuo?" Wu Jiutian asked.


    "Mingyuan Pill?" The group seemed puzzled.


    "This one!" Wu Jiutian waved her hand, projecting an image of the Mingyuan Pill.


    "The Elixir of Immortality from the Southern Ming Tribute Hall?" a Phoenix General eximed.


    "Where is it?" Wu Jiutian''s face lit up, ready to seize it with all her might.


    The group exchanged strange nces.


    "Supreme, you are toote!" a Phoenix General said.


    "Oh?"


    "Two days ago..."


    As she listened to their exnation, Wu Jiutian''s brows furrowed tighter and tighter. How coincidental that the Mingyuan Pill disappeared just as Suzaku''s problem emerged?


    Sensing something unusual, Wu Jiutian didn''t bother to exin to her subordinates. Her figure flickered and she disappeared again.


    In the next moment, Wu Jiutian appeared in the Lihuo Sacred Hall.


    Standing before Nie Fancheng were several ministers. They were momentarily stunned by Wu Jiutian''s sudden appearance but showed no anger. Ignoring the ministers, Nie Fancheng turned to Wu Jiutian.


    "Is there something you need?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "Where is the Mingyuan Pill?" Wu Jiutian asked directly.


    "In the hands of the Great Luo envoy, Zhong Shan!" Nie Fancheng replied.


    "Zhong Shan?" Wu Jiutian suddenly understood everything.


    Zhong Shan? You dared to scheme against me? Wu Jiutian''s eyes turned red with rage, her anger reaching the heavens!


    "Sorry to interrupt!" Wu Jiutian left those words and vanished instantly.


    "Your Majesty, who was that?" a minister asked in astonishment.


    Who could be so audacious in the Lihuo Sacred Hall, and why was the emperor so lenient?


    "Go check on the bird beside Ling''er," Nie Fancheng ordered.


    "Yes!" came the elderly eunuch''s voice from outside the hall.


    One dayter, on Phoenix Ind:


    Zhong Shan was seated in Xuan Yuan''s valley, ying a game of Go with Xuan Yuan.


    "Zhong Shan, you don''t seem worried at all," Xuan Yuan said with a smile.


    "The oue is already known, so why worry?" Zhong Shan replied, cing a piece on the board with a smile.


    "Well said. Some people are obsessed with results, others with the process. But you, Zhong Shan, surpass them all. You only care about the scheme. Once your n is in motion, nothing can unsettle you," Xuan Yuan remarked, cing his piece.


    "You tter me, Xuan Yuan. There are always uncertainties in life. How can I be sure of the oue every time?" Zhong Shan replied, cing another piece with a smile.


    "But why are you so calm? Aren''t you afraid of unexpected events?" Xuan Yuan asked with a smile, a hint of curiosity in his eyes.


    "ns are made by humans, but sess is determined by the heavens. Even if Zhong Shan were anxious, it wouldn''t help. As long as I do my best and give it my all, my heart remains calm. Why do people get anxious? Because they haven''t done their best. I have, so I remain calm," Zhong Shan replied, cing another piece on the board with a smile.


    "ns are made by humans, but sess is determined by the heavens? People get anxious because they haven''t done their best?" Xuan Yuan repeated thoughtfully. "Well said. I didn''t expect someone as young as you to have such profound insight. Truly, people are not always what they seem," Xuan Yuan remarked, impressed.


    "Heh..." Zhong Shan was about to say something when suddenly:


    "Boom!"


    A massive gust of wind tore through the valley, whipping around violently as a powerful aura pressed down on Zhong Shan. The air was filled with an overwhelming sense of anger, directly aimed at him. The sky darkened with rolling clouds and shing lightning, creating a scene of imminent doom.


    "Whoosh!"


    The violent wind caused Zhong Shan''s robes to p wildly. Xuan Yuan frowned and stepped closer, cing a hand on Zhong Shan''s shoulder. Instantly, the wind around Zhong Shan ceased, and his robes settled down.


    Before them appeared an enraged woman.


    Wu Jiutian, her phoenix eyes ring at Zhong Shan, looked as if she wanted to tear him apart.


    Seeing her expression, Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    This isn''t right. I expected Wu Jiutian toe looking for me, but not with such anger. A Supreme, a Heavenly Realm expert, should have a heart as solid as a rock. Emotions shouldn''t be so apparent. Why is she so furious?


    Not faking it. No need to put on a show for someone like me. So why this reaction?


    Suddenly, it clicked. I underestimated how much she cares for the Suzaku.


    Realizing this, Zhong Shan felt a surge of joy. His mind raced, adjusting his n to capitalize on this new insight.


    "Zhong Shan!" Wu Jiutian roared, her anger palpable.


    A few days ago, she had merely looked down on him. Now, she realized just how insidious this man was.


    "Zhong Shan greets the Phoenix Supreme!" Zhong Shan said calmly, bowing slightly.


    "Give me the Mingyuan Pill!" Wu Jiutian demanded bluntly.


    Xuan Yuan raised an eyebrow, slightly taken aback. He knew Zhong Shan was nning something big, but he hadn''t asked for details out of politeness. Wu Jiutian''s directness was startling.


    "What do you mean, senior? Zhong Shan doesn''t understand," Zhong Shan replied, feigning confusion.


    Xuan Yuan watched Zhong Shan and shook his head, chuckling softly. This young man is a ssic old fox, deflecting the issuepletely. Now, with Wu Jiutian exining her reasons, Zhong Shan would hold the upper hand.


    "At this point, you''re still pretending? You''re courting death!" Wu Jiutian''s fury was evident.


    "Senior, please rify what I did to cause this misunderstanding. Even if I must die, let me die knowing why!" Zhong Shan shouted back, matching her anger.


    Xuan Yuan sighed softly. Zhong Shan is not only cunning but has a face as thick as a city wall. Truly, people are not always what they seem.

 Chapter 450: Gratitude and Grudges

    <h4>Chapter 450: Gratitude and Grudges</h4>


    Zhong Shan''s words made Wu Jiutian''s face flush with anger. The sequence of events��the initial request from Zhong Shan, the sudden appearance of the Mingyuan Pill, and then the sudden shedding of the Suzaku''s feathers��all pointed directly to Zhong Shan. Seeing him now, feigning ignorance, was infuriating.


    Wu Jiutian wanted to shout at Zhong Shan, to crush him with a single blow. But she knew she couldn''t do that. It wasn''t about fearing Emperor Xuan Sha but rather about the Suzaku. Zhong Shan had nothing to lose, and fighting him head-on wouldn''t solve anything. Besides, Zhong Shan had clearly prepared for this confrontation.


    Taking a deep breath, Wu Jiutian suppressed her overwhelming anger. The surrounding pressure and wind ceased, though her gaze remained icy.


    "Tell me, what do you want in exchange for the Mingyuan Pill?" Wu Jiutian asked.


    Seeing Wu Jiutian''s shift in attitude, Zhong Shan knew not to push too far.


    "Phoenix Supreme, you must have seen Tian Ling''er recently," Zhong Shan said.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s question, Wu Jiutian''s brow furrowed, and a sh of killing intent crossed her eyes.


    "Tian Ling''er was originally my wife. These so-called cultural and martial tests mean nothing to me. Tian Ling''er is mine, and no one can stop me from taking her!" Zhong Shan dered firmly.


    Xuan Yuan and Wu Jiutian stared at Zhong Shan, trying toprehend his audacity. How could someone of his low cultivation, a mere Nascent Soul stage cultivator, speak with such confidence?


    Anyone witnessing this would feel ufortable. But Zhong Shan''s resolve suggested he could back up his bold ims. A strategist might have no physical strength but could devise ns to defeat entire armies. A politician mightck physical prowess but could craft policies to govern millions.


    "However, I cannot allow Tian Ling''er to suffer any longer. She has endured so much, even having her memory sealed. While Tian Ling''er might bear it, I, Zhong Shan, cannot!" Zhong Shan continued.


    Both Xuan Yuan and Wu Jiutian frowned deeply.


    "Phoenix Supreme, it was you who sealed Tian Ling''er''s memory?" Zhong Shan suddenly pointed at Wu Jiutian.


    His tone was filled with authority, causing even Wu Jiutian, a Heavenly Realm expert, to momentarily feel pressured by the absurdity of the situation.


    Instantly, Wu Jiutian red at Zhong Shan, her eyes brimming with intense energy, amanding presence that bore down on Zhong Shan''s mind.


    "Ah-woo!"


    The Baji Tianwei, Zhong Shan''s spiritual beast, swallowed the oppressive energy whole, leaving Wu Jiutian slightly astonished.


    "Yes, it was me. What? Do you n to seek revenge?" Wu Jiutian asked coldly, her eyes sharp.


    Instead of continuing with harsh words, Zhong Shan bowed respectfully to Wu Jiutian, surprising both her and Xuan Yuan.


    "Thank you. Thank you, Phoenix Supreme, for saving Tian Ling''er!" Zhong Shan said sincerely.


    His unexpected gratitude left Wu Jiutian taken aback. She watched Zhong Shan coldly.


    "Gratitude is gratitude, and a grudge is a grudge. Zhong Shan can distinguish between the two," Zhong Shan stated.


    "Ha! Gratitude and grudges? How can you tell them apart?" Wu Jiutian sneered.


    "The fact that Tian Ling''er is alive today is thanks to you, Phoenix Supreme. For that, I am grateful. However, the pain and suffering she endured because of the memory seal are a different matter. I will not forget the kindness you''ve shown, but neither will I overlook the wrongs," Zhong Shan exined calmly.


    Wu Jiutian''s eyes flickered withplex emotions as she processed Zhong Shan''s words. She realized Zhong Shan was not just a maniptive schemer but someone who truly cared for Tian Ling''er. His approach was direct yetyered, showing respect where it was due but notpromising on his stance against injustice.


    "Very well, Zhong Shan. You have my attention. What exactly do you want?" Wu Jiutian asked, her tone less hostile but still cautious.


    "I, Zhong Shan, promise that as long as I am here, the Phoenix n will thrive and never decline!" Zhong Shan dered.


    "You? You promise to protect the Phoenix n''s prosperity? What qualifications do you have to offer such protection?" Wu Jiutian replied coldly. It wasn''t that she looked down on Zhong Shan, but his level of cultivation made his promise hard to believe.


    "When I, Zhong Shan, make a promise, I keep it. I won''t give any more assurances; the future will prove everything," Zhong Shan said.


    "You''ve spoken of gratitude, now speak of grudges," Wu Jiutian demanded, her gaze icy.


    "Very well, I''ll be straightforward andy out all my conditions," Zhong Shan said.


    "Speak!"


    The time for the martialpetition was approaching, and the eyes of the entire capital of Lihuo were focused on the central square. Thispetition featured a key figure: Zhong Shan. It wasn''t Zhong Shan himself who was important, but the Elixir of Immortality he possessed, which everyone coveted.


    The central square, despite being called a square, was vast, with a diameter spanning a thousand miles. It was a pure, natural environment of forests and mountains. The rules of thepetition prohibited flying, and a special array would be activated to prevent the use of divine senses. In this expansive area, armies could battle with up to a million soldiers, continuing until the opposingmander surrendered or was captured, or until only one side remained standing. That side would be dered the victor.


    Days before thepetition, all spectators were cleared out to make way for the four armies to station themselves.


    The Zhong Family Army had 800,000 troops, as did the Shaofei Marquis'' army, while Zhao Tiansha and Xiaoyao Hou each brought a million troops.


    After all four armies were stationed, themanders went to meet the princess.


    Tian Ling''er had dressed up beautifully early in the morning and was waiting in a northern pce with the featherless Suzaku. Nie Qingqing stood by her side.


    Soon, the fourmanders arrived.


    Shaofei Marquis, Xiaoyao Hou, Zhao Tiansha, and another person, not Zhong Shan but Lin Xiao.


    Seeing the four arrive without Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er''s anticipation from earlier that morning plummeted into deep disappointment. She felt a strong sense of grievance, almost bringing her to tears. Was he really angry with her?


    "Who are you? Where is Zhong Shan?" Nie Qingqing asked immediately.


    "Vice Commander of the Zhong Family Army, Lin Xiao, greets the two princesses. Themander is attending to urgent matters and has entrusted me to lead the Zhong Family Army in his stead for thepetition," Lin Xiao exined.


    "Nonsense! What could be more important than the martialpetition?" Nie Qingqing shouted angrily.


    "Did Zhong Shan losest time and now wants to forfeit? Did he send you, an insignificant nobody, to lose on purpose?" Xiaoyao Hou sneered.


    Tian Ling''er, filled with regret, thought that if she hadn''t cheatedst time, Zhong Shan might havee. Her spirits sank even lower.


    Lin Xiao nced coldly at Xiaoyao Hou. Insignificant nobody? Maybe so, but Lin Xiao couldn''t be bothered to argue with him.


    "Rest assured, Princesses. Themander will definitelye. We are merely starting the preliminary battles. Themander is handling a matter rted to Princess Ling''er," Lin Xiao said.


    "Huh?" Tian Ling''er was taken aback, her earlier sadness momentarily forgotten.


    "What do you mean?" Nie Qingqing asked.


    "I''m afraid I cannot disclose the details. All I can say is that themander is doing something very difficult for Princess Ling''er. He wants to make sure that when victory is celebrated, Princess Ling''er will be the happiest bride," Lin Xiao exined.


    Lin Xiao''s confident words gradually calmed the two women''s initial anxiety. However, his statement caused unrest among the otherpetitors.


    "How can you say that? Are you pre-determining the oue before thepetition even starts?" Xiaoyao Hou said coldly.


    Zhao Tiansha also looked at Lin Xiao with a chilly expression.


    Only Shaofei Hou seemed unfazed by Lin Xiao''s words. He knew that boasting now would only lead to more humiliation if they failed. As long as he emerged victorious, it didn''t matter what others said. However, Shaofei Hou''s attention was drawn to the bald Suzaku in Tian Ling''er''s hands.


    The Suzaku had lost all its feathers? How could that be? It hadn''t been long since hest saw it, and its feathers shouldn''t fall out naturally in such a short time. It had to be someone''s doing. But who in the world would dare to pluck the princess''s pet bird?


    Was it the princess herself?


    As he thought about this, Shaofei Hou''s brow furrowed slightly. He realized that he might not understand Princess Ling''er as well as he thought. He wanted a gentle and kind wife, not someone who could be so cruel.


    With a sigh, Shaofei Hou decided to give her the benefit of the doubt. There could be another exnation. But a small crack had formed in the previously wless image of Tian Ling''er in his mind.


    "Alright, return to your camps! The horn will sound at dawn, marking the start of the battle!" Nie Qingqing ordered.


    "Understood!" The fourmanders responded immediately before retreating.


    Back in his camp, Shaofei Hou sat at hismand table, lost in thought about the Suzaku in Tian Ling''er''s hands.


    Just then, his daughter, Bing Bing, ran into the hall.


    "Bing Bing, what are you doing here?" Shaofei Hou asked, puzzled.


    "I had Uncle Ma bring me here this morning. I''m even wearing armor!" Bing Bing replied excitedly.


    "How did you find Uncle Ma? Weren''t you with your mother?" Shaofei Hou asked, still confused.


    "Mother sent me here," Bing Bing said.


    "She did?" Shaofei Hou''s expression becameplicated.


    "How is your mother doing?" Shaofei Hou asked softly.


    Bing Bing hesitated but eventually nodded.


    "Bing Bing, you can''t lie to me," Shaofei Hou said, his sharp eyes catching the unease in Bing Bing''s expression.


    "Mother told me not to say anything," Bing Bing said, feeling conflicted.


    "It''s alright, tell me. If your mother has any issues, I''ll handle it," Shaofei Hou assured her.


    "Okay."


    "Mother has been crying for days," Bing Bing said timidly.


    "Crying?" Shaofei Hou''s eyes shed with anger, but then he seemed to realize something, his expression turning uncertain.


    "Why has she been crying?" Shaofei Hou asked.


    "I asked her, but she wouldn''t tell me. She just told me not to tell you," Bing Bing replied.


    Shaofei Hou''s expression grew even moreplex.


    "But when I sleep with her, she calls out your name in her sleep and says ''don''t go''. She even cries in her sleep," Bing Bing exined.


    Hearing this, Shaofei Hou fell silent, lost in memories, his emotions in turmoil.


    "Father? Father?" Bing Bing called out, snapping Shaofei Hou out of his thoughts.


    Shaofei Hou took a deep breath.


    "It''s nothing, I''m fine."


    "Bing Bing," Shaofei Hou suddenly looked at her seriously.


    "Hmm?" Bing Bing, sitting on Shaofei Hou''sp, looked up and asked.


    "If your mother and I were to separate and live far apart, and you could only choose one of us, who would you want to live with, your father or your mother?" Shaofei Hou asked.


    "I want to stay with father!" Bing Bing said firmly, biting her lip. Her determination was clear, though her mood turned somber.


    "Why?" Shaofei Hou inquired.


    "Mother said she can take care of herself, but you can''t. If I''m with you, I can take care of you in her ce," Bing Bing said, tears welling up in her eyes.


    Shaofei Hou hugged Bing Bing tightly, his emotions also reaching their peak. He couldn''t hold back his tears.


    "Father, please don''t separate from mother," Bing Bing cried.


    "Alright, we won''t. Our family will stay together forever," Shaofei Hou said, holding her tightly.


    After a while, Shaofei Hou looked towards the hall''s entrance.


    "Xiao Ma!" Shaofei Hou called out.


    "Here!" A general quickly ran in.


    "Notify all the soldiers that the martialpetition is canceled. We are all returning home," Shaofei Hou ordered.


    "But Commander, what about Princess Ling''er...?" The general asked, worried.


    "I already have the best there is. Why should I bother with these trivial matters?" Shaofei Hou replied.

 Chapter 451: The Martial Trial BeginsThe Night Before the Martial Trial

    <h4>Chapter 451: The Martial Trial BeginsThe Night Before the Martial Trial</h4>


    The night before the martial trial, Marquis Soaring Flight unexpectedly led his 800,000-strong army out of the vast central square!


    Though those within the central square were unaware of the situation, outside the square, millions of eyes watched. The departure of such a massive force immediately caused a stir among the spectators!


    Was Marquis Soaring Flight ying games? Just a while ago, he had caused a greatmotion, even proposing marriage to the emperor in front of the civil and military officials in the Sacred Pce. Now, with the trial reaching its final stage, why had he suddenly withdrawn?


    People were baffled, but no one would dare call Marquis Soaring Flight ipetent. After all, he had single-handedly toppled a great empire. Anyone who called him ipetent would be admitting to being even more incapable.


    Given this, there seemed to be only one usible exnation for his retreat: he believed he could not win the martial trial. Was there really someone who could intimidate Marquis Soaring Flight into retreating?


    Could such a person exist?


    Carefree Marquis? Zhao Tiansha? Zhong Shan?


    Interest among the people grew more intense. Beyond their faint hopes of obtaining the Elixir of Immortality, they were eager to see who would ultimately triumph in this grand martial trial.


    News of Marquis Soaring Flight''s withdrawal quickly reached the scouts of the other three factions. Although the scouts couldn''t infiltrate the central square, they could gather information from outside, where the news had already spread like wildfire.


    In a Northern Pce


    "Ling''er, Marquis Soaring Flight''s army has retreated," Nie Qingqing said.


    "Let them retreat then," Tian Ling''er replied after some thought. As long as the Zhong Family Army didn''t retreat, there was nothing to worry about.


    "But this means the Zhong Family Army might face a pincer attack from the other two armies. What if they are defeated?" Nie Qingqing asked.


    "The Zhong Family Army will not be defeated," Tian Ling''er said firmly.


    "Why not?" Nie Qingqing asked, puzzled.


    "Because I believe in Zhong Shan!" Tian Ling''er replied, clutching a small book tightly.


    In Zhao Tiansha''s Camp


    Zhao Tiansha listened to his subordinate''s report on the surprising news.


    "They''ve left? Good! Without Zhong Shan, the Zhong Family Army is leaderless. With Marquis Soaring Flight gone, our only opponent is Carefree Marquis!" Zhao Tiansha said with a smile.


    "Commander, even with Marquis Soaring Flight gone, we mustn''t underestimate the Zhong Family Army. They are extremely powerful, having fought alongside Zhong Shan for years��they are elite among elites!" a subordinate cautioned.


    "They may be elite, but without theirmander, what can they do? Do you really think that Lin Xiao is that formidable?" Zhao Tiansha scoffed.


    "What about Carefree Marquis?"


    "Carefree Marquis? Rumors say he''s formidable, but I''ve seen him frequently over the past few months. He''s not as strong as me!" Zhao Tiansha said confidently.


    "Congrattions, Commander!"


    In Carefree Marquis''s Camp


    Carefree Marquis was hosting a banquet in his grand hall, attended by twenty-nine emperor-level experts.


    "Commander, why bring so many soldiers? We alone are more than enough," one subordinateughed.


    "Indeed, Commander, with Zhong Shan absent and Marquis Soaring Flight gone, aren''t we the strongest now? This will be aplete victory!"


    "And that Mr. Corpse isn''t here either! With our twenty-nine emperor-level experts, we can sweep away all opposition!"


    Carefree Marquis looked around with satisfaction at his subordinates. Indeed, with twenty-nine emperor-level experts, they were a terrifying force. In the central square, with a diameter of a thousand miles, they could swiftly defeat the two armies.


    "In a few days, when ourmander wins the beauty, we can thoroughly humiliate Zhong Shan, hahaha!"


    "I heard that Zhong Shan and Princess Ling''er are really husband and wife. If ourmander wins the beauty, it will not only humiliate Zhong Shan but make him wish for death!"


    "Congrattions, Commander!"


    "Hahahahahaha!" Carefree Marquisughed wildly.


    In the Zhong Family Army Camp


    Lin Xiao sat at themander''s desk, with Shui Wuhen and Liu Wushuang among the other generals standing before him.


    Two months ago, Zhong Shan''s instructions had left Shui Wuhen baffled. Why was themand being transferred to Lin Xiao? What did this mean? Other generals were also dissatisfied, as they trusted Shui Wuhen more, having fought numerous battles under hismand. Lin Xiao had appeared suddenly, and they saw him as unimportant. If it weren''t for Zhong Shan''s orders and Shui Wuhen''s cooperation, the generals wouldn''t have obeyed so readily.


    Lin Xiao looked at the generals, took a deep breath, and said, "Generals, I am temporarily inmand. I will not overstep my bounds after this task ispleted. I know many of you are not convinced. That''s fine. Just follow orders. Remember, you are the Zhong Family Army, not any individual''s private force. Zhong Shan''s orders are the divine mandate!"


    "Yes!" The generals, after thinking it over, responded. Indeed, Shui Wuhen, despite his seniority, was still a subordinate of the Grand Marshal. They were the Zhong Family Army, not the Shui Family Army.


    "Secondly, I hope no one acts stubbornly here. The importance of this battle is clear to all of you. The northern pce is where the Grand Marshal''s wife resides. One wrong move, and everything is lost. Anyone who causes failure due to stubbornness will be executed without mercy!" Lin Xiao said sternly.


    "Yes!" The generals replied with a shiver.


    Lin Xiao then smiled and said, "Of course, victory is ours. The Grand Marshal entrusted us with this crucial task. We either end up defeated and humiliated, or we gloriously defeat the three armies. I have confidence in our victory. Do you have confidence in carrying out the task and making the Zhong Family Army''s name resound throughout the Great Li Dynasty?"


    "Yes!" The generals shouted immediately.


    Using abination of sternness and encouragement, Lin Xiao ignited the spirit ofpetitiveness among the generals.


    "I can''t hear you!" Lin Xiao shouted.


    "Yes!" The generals shouted louder.


    "Still can''t hear you!" Lin Xiao repeated.


    "YES!!!" The generals roared, shaking the entire pce. They were in a state of high excitement.


    Shui Wuhen watched with a frown, surprised at how easily Lin Xiao had roused the subordinates.


    "Good. Now follow my previous arrangements. Shui Wuhen, stay behind!" Lin Xiao ordered.


    "Yes!" The generals responded and left.


    Shui Wuhen stayed behind, slightly surprised.


    With only Lin Xiao and Shui Wuhen left in the grand hall, Lin Xiao smiled and said, "Shui Wuhen, do you think the Grand Marshal made an ill-considered decision by changingmanders at thest minute?"


    Shui Wuhen frowned but shook his head, saying, "The Grand Marshal''s decision is undoubtedly correct. If he believes Vice Commander Lin is more capable, he must be right."


    Lin Xiao smiled and said, "Hehe, Wuhen, there''s no need to be so dejected. The Grand Marshal is grooming you. He wouldn''t think you''re incapable."


    "Uh?" Shui Wuhen was slightly surprised.


    "You have fought many victorious battles and are considered a renowned general under the Grand Marshal. But, how do youpare to Yi Yan from the past?" Lin Xiao asked.


    "Yi Yan? Him? I know I am not his equal! Yi Yan is the only one in recent years who could rival the Grand Marshal," Shui Wuhen immediately replied.


    "Yi Yan is now just like me," Lin Xiao said.


    "Like you?!" Shui Wuhen was stunned, looking incredulous.


    "Exactly. The Grand Marshal''s capabilities are unparalleled. You haven''t experienced enough to see it clearly. Whether it''s the army or the generals, the Grand Marshal''s forces are always the most elite. You have the potential, which is why the Grand Marshal is grooming you and asked me to assist you. In the uing battles, you don''t need to participate directly. Instead, observe carefully. I will teach you how to lead troops, understand the enemy''s grand strategy, deploy a hidden force of a million soldiers, and strike with precision using the momentum of the battlefield. Learn diligently! Many of the Grand Marshal''s strategies were hidden, unnoticed by anyone. Many times, people thought the Grand Marshal was just lucky, not realizing he had calcted everything, even luck. The reasons for the Grand Marshal''s inevitable victory are beyond our current understanding," Lin Xiao exined.


    Shui Wuhen listened with a furrowed brow. From the moment Lin Xiao mentioned Yi Yan, he realized he had underestimated the Grand Marshal he so admired. There were many secrets he still didn''t know.


    "However, you shouldn''t feel burdened. You have an advantage that neither I nor Yi Yan possess. The Grand Marshal has mentioned it before. So, one day, you too will rise to prominence in the world," Lin Xiao said.


    "Me?" Shui Wuhen was taken aback.


    Lin Xiao''s strength was uncertain to Shui Wuhen, but he knew he was far behind Yi Yan. Yet, Lin Xiao''s words gave him a sense of disbelief.


    "Yes, you. Youck experience and strategic thinking, but I can teach you those. It''s just a pity that Marquis Soaring Flight has left. Without a formidable opponent, there won''t be many tough battles to exin," Lin Xiao sighed.


    "Vice Commander Lin, are you so confident against the remaining two armies? They have a significant number of emperor-level experts, especially Carefree Marquis with his twenty-nine emperor-level experts. We only have zing Fire and Qing Hong," Shui Wuhen said, frowning.


    "Heh, war isn''t a martial contest. Remember, our 800,000 troops are not 800,000 individual strengths but a single strength magnified 800,000 times!" Lin Xiao stated.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen nodded.


    "Moreover, here, where flight and divine sense are restricted, are those emperor-level experts still emperor-level experts? They are just a bunch of useless people," Lin Xiao sneered.


    "Useless?" Shui Wuhen''s face twitched.


    The Hour of the Tiger (3 AM)


    "Woooooo..."


    In the still dark forest, a deep horn sound echoed, spreading across the entire central square. With the horn''s sound, the martial trial began.


    In the three camps, the threemanders looked up simultaneously.


    "It has begun!" Lin Xiao, Zhao Tiansha, and Carefree Marquis said in unison.


    Before dawn, the four directions stirred! Under the orders of the threemanders, their forces rapidly moved in all directions, and the great battlemenced!


    Countless spectators on the outskirts watched eagerly from early on.


    Naturally, some had also set up betting rings, cing odds on the three armies.


    Who would ultimately win? Zhao Tiansha? Carefree Marquis? Or the Zhong Family Army, now without itsmander?

 Chapter 452: The Terrifying Lin Xiao

    <h4>Chapter 452: The Terrifying Lin Xiao</h4>


    The war had begun.


    This martial contest was far from a friendly match; it was a life-and-death battle. Though Xiaoyao Hou was a feeblemander, his troops were among the elite. Whether it was the twenty-nine Emperor Extreme Realm experts or the million-strong army, they were the finest. These million soldiers had just descended from the battlefield, their bodies brimming with a murderous aura!


    As the horns red, the three-way army scouts were dispatched. Without the ability to fly, they dashed through the forests at incredible speeds, gathering intelligence on the enemy.


    In front of Xiaoyao Hou.


    "Reporting to the Grand Marshal, fifty miles southeast, we discovered thirty thousand soldiers of the Zhong family."


    "Dispatch a hundred thousand men to annihte the Zhong family army!"


    "Yes!"


    Not long after the hundred thousand troops departed.


    "Reporting to the Grand Marshal, a hundred miles southeast, we discovered a hundred thousand Zhao family soldiers!"


    "Oh?" Xiaoyao Hou''s eyebrows furrowed slightly.


    The same direction?


    "You two, Emperor Extreme Realm experts, go and assist my army! Wipe out the small forces of Zhong and Zhao!" Xiaoyao Hou ordered.


    "Yes!" The two immediately responded.


    "Reporting to the Grand Marshal, seventy miles due east, we discovered forty thousand soldiers of the Zhong family."


    "Dispatch a hundred thousand men to annihte the Zhong family army!"


    "Yes!"


    "Reporting to the Grand Marshal, a hundred and fifty miles due east, we discovered ny thousand Zhao family soldiers!"


    ... The messages continued to rapidly ry to Xiaoyao Hou.


    Rubbing his temples, Xiaoyao Hou felt a bit overwhelmed as he continuously issued orders.


    The same chaos was happening on Zhao Tiansha''s side.


    Who could have expected that the battle would be so chaotic so quickly? The war of the three armies escted at an astonishing pace. How long had it been? And so many soldiers had already been dispatched.


    Kill!


    Once the war began, it was all about ughter. Deaths and injuries were inevitable, unless someone surrendered voluntarily, in which case they could fly up and be taken out of the central square by designated personnel.


    In a concealed valley.


    Inside a grand hall, Lin Xiao stood before a battlefield map, continuously arranging the troops. Shui Wuhen stood beside him, carefully observing and learning.


    "At this position, deploy ten thousand troops, but only to harass. Do not exceed the time of half a burning incense stick, then quickly move through this path, across the forest, and reach this location!" Lin Xiao pointed to the map with a stick.


    "Yes!" Ten messengers took turns rying the orders to various troops.


    "Alright, I have arranged twelve skirmishes. Now we wait for a while as scouts from all sides quickly gather intelligence." Lin Xiao instructed.


    "Yes!" The messengers immediately responded.


    Shui Wuhen gazed at the battlefield map in front of him, his eyes filled with uncertainty.


    "Deputy Marshal Lin, what is your intention with these moves?" Shui Wuhen asked in amazement as he watched the scenes unfold.


    On the battlefield map, Lin Xiao used magic to reveal the positions of the three armies, showing scenes of their skirmishes and even the damage incurred. But all of this was based on Lin Xiao''s conjectures and judgments of the battle situation. Could this really work?


    "This was the first lesson the Grand Marshal taught me: ''Drive the wolf to devour the tiger!''" Lin Xiao replied.


    "Drive the wolf to devour the tiger?" Shui Wuhen furrowed his brow. It wasn''t an overlyplex strategy; he knew of it too.


    "Amander must foresee the oue before the battle begins. Of the twelve units I''ve dispatched, ording to my strategy, our forces will lose at most one unit, while the others will remain unharmed, and we will destroy two hundred thousand of the enemy troops!" Lin Xiao dered.


    "Report, the first unit is unharmed. The Nie and Zhao armies shed, each side suffering eight thousand casualties!"


    "Report, the second unit is unharmed. The Nie and Zhao armies shed, each side suffering six thousand casualties!"


    ... Good news kepting in, exactly as Lin Xiao had predicted.


    "Report, the ninth unit was surrounded by both armies and faced certain death. They surrendered and were led out of the battle zone. This maneuver caused the Nie and Zhao armies to engage each other, resulting in heavy casualties, and the battle is still ongoing!"


    At dawn, the first group of soldiers was escorted out.


    The Zhong family army, twelve thousand men, surrendered.


    Onlookers were astonished. Was the Zhong family army, without Zhong Shan, really so weak? In such a short time, twelve thousand men had surrendered?


    The battle continued swiftly. Although the battlefield had a diameter of a thousand miles, it was still too small for these cultivators, especially with over two million people inside.


    By noon, more soldiers from the Zhong family army surrendered. This time, thirty-eight thousand men came out.


    A total of fifty thousand stood in the surrender zone, eliciting long sighs from countless spectators.


    These fifty thousand men seemed too cowardly. How long had it been? They surrendered already? Moreover, they appeared unscathed. Were they truly so terrified?


    Those who had bet on Zhong Shan winning were all ring angrily.


    In the afternoon, soldiers from Zhao Tiansha''s army finally surrendered. Three thousand men, covered in wounds, with few uninjured, were forced to fly up and admit defeat, being escorted to the surrender zone.


    Next, four thousand of Xiaoyao Hou''s soldiers emerged, also severely wounded.


    However, after Xiaoyao Hou''s men came out, they all red angrily at Zhao Tiansha''s subordinates, showing no animosity towards the Zhong family army.


    Countless eyes were watching from the outside. What was happening inside?


    When the unscathed surrendering soldiers from the Zhong family army increased to a hundred thousand, while the injured soldiers from the other two sides reached tens of thousands, the spectators finally noticed something was off.


    Something was wrong. Why were all the Zhong family army''s surrendering soldiers uninjured, while Xiaoyao Hou''s and Zhao Tiansha''s men were all heavily wounded?


    When two Emperor Extreme Realm experts were carried out, there was anothermotion among the crowd.


    Emperor Extreme Realm, those two were Emperor Extreme Realm experts, Xiaoyao Hou''s strongmen, how were they so severely injured?


    By evening, the battle continued! In the forest, one could see countless streams of light and numerous powerful arrows shooting in all directions.


    On the battlefield.


    At Xiaoyao Hou''s position.


    "How many have we lost?" Xiaoyao Hou shouted.


    "Grand Marshal, we''ve lost two hundred and eighty thousand soldiers, including your personal guards. Among the Emperor Extreme Realm experts, one is dead, three are injured, one is recuperating, and two have surrendered and flown away." a subordinate reported.


    "Zhao Tiansha!" Xiaoyao Hou red in anger.


    At Zhao Tiansha''s position.


    "How many have we lost?" Zhao Tiansha asked.


    "Our losses amount to 250,000 troops. It was perilous, but luck was on our side. Our forces encountered Xiaoyao Hou''s army and even their Emperor Extreme Realm experts. We were on the verge of defeat when the Zhong family army suddenly appeared and blocked part of Xiaoyao Hou''s forces, allowing us to sessfully kill one Emperor Extreme Realm expert and severely injure three others!" a subordinate reported.


    "The Zhong family army appeared suddenly?" Zhao Tiansha frowned.


    "Yes, they got lost, haha, truly heaven''s favor for our army," the subordinate said.


    "Hmm!" Zhao Tiansha nodded.


    In the valley where Lin Xiao was stationed, within the temporary camp pce.


    Shui Wuhen looked at two identical maps, his eyes filled with astonishment. One map depicted Lin Xiao''s predicted battle scenarios, while the other showed the actual intelligence gathered by scouts. The two maps were eerily simr, with only the slightest differences.


    Shui Wuhen could hardly believe his eyes, looking at Lin Xiao as if he were a monster.


    Noticing Shui Wuhen''s expression, Lin Xiao smiled, "This is basic. Do you want to learn?"


    Shui Wuhen, still in shock, nodded slowly, the turmoil in his heart reaching its peak.


    "First, understand these," Lin Xiao tossed a stack of documents.


    "What are these?" Shui Wuhen asked, puzzled.


    "These are dossiers on Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha��their living habits, their styles of handling affairs, and their methods ofmanding troops. There are also profiles on their subordinates," Lin Xiao exined.


    "What is this for?" Shui Wuhen asked, still confused.


    "Know your enemy and know yourself, and you will not be imperiled in a hundred battles. How can you talk about fighting a war without understanding your opponent? By understanding the habits and characteristics of the opposingmanders, you can predict their actions and formte strategies ahead of time," Lin Xiao borated.


    "I understand. I am ready to learn," Shui Wuhen replied, his previous arrogancepletely gone as he earnestly began learning from Lin Xiao.


    In the Lihuo Holy Temple.


    "How is the battle progressing?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "Your Majesty, Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha are sure to lose," the elderly eunuch replied.


    "Oh?" Nie Fancheng raised an eyebrow in curiosity.


    "The deputymander of the Zhong family army, Lin Xiao, is truly a genius. His ability tomand and strategize is terrifying. Perhaps only Shaofei Hou could match him," the eunuch said.


    "You speak of him with such high regard?" Nie Fancheng smiled.


    "Indeed, Your Majesty. Let me provide you with some figures to illustrate the situation," the eunuch said.


    "Speak!" Nie Fanchengmanded.


    "In the surrender za, there are 100,000 soldiers from the Zhong family army, but only a few are slightly injured. On the other hand, Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha each have 100,000 troops there, all severely wounded. Inside the battlefield, Xiaoyao Hou''s forces have lost 180,000 soldiers, Zhao Tiansha''s forces have lost 150,000 soldiers, while the Zhong family army..." the eunuch''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    "What about the Zhong family army?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "Not a single one has died!" the eunuch replied, incredulous.


    Silence enveloped the Lihuo Holy Temple for a long moment.


    "The Zhong family army ismanded by Lin Xiao, correct?" Nie Fancheng asked after a pause.


    "Yes, the same Lin Xiao who recently followed Zhong Shan into the Lihuo Holy Temple and brought the Mingyuan Pill before the entire court," the eunuch confirmed.


    The war could not be concluded in a short time. Even in such a confined space, a fast-paced battle involving so many soldiers could not be resolved quickly.


    Under Lin Xiao''s meticulous calctions, the Zhong family army yed the role of a strong catalyst in the entire battlefield, hiding in the shadows and waiting for the two opposing armies to sh. If they did not engage, the Zhong family army would incite conflict, forcing them into a frenzy of battle.


    Ten dayster.


    "Deputy Commander Lin, ording to your current calctions, Nie Kuang and Zhao Tiansha each have less than 200,000 soldiers remaining in this area?" Shui Wuhen asked, astonished.


    "Yes, 200,000 remnants on each side, with less than 100,000 effectivebatants," Lin Xiao replied with a smile.


    "Deputy Commander Lin, you are truly amazing!" Shui Wuhen eximed with joy.


    "Amazing? They are just a bunch of weaklings. What''s there to be surprised about? Besides, I have less than 500,000 men left," Lin Xiao shook his head, clearly dissatisfied with the result.


    Shui Wuhen was speechless. They had lost 300,000 men, but all of them were perfectly fine, waiting outside. The remaining 500,000 were mostly uninjured, with only a few lightly wounded. The other sides had each lost 800,000 men and had wasted 23 Emperor Extreme Realm experts. And Lin Xiao was still dissatisfied with this result?

 Chapter 453: The Result of the Martial Contest

    <h4>Chapter 453: The Result of the Martial Contest</h4>


    In Xiaoyao Hou''s camp.


    "How are our losses?" Xiaoyao Hou asked in a deep voice.


    "Severe. We only have 200,000 remnants left, but overall, we are still the strongest," a subordinate replied.


    "Oh?"


    "The Zhao army also has only 200,000 remnants. The Zhong family army has scattered or fled; they might have only five or six thousand left now. However, they are no match for us. We still have seven Emperor Extreme Realm experts! Grand Marshal, we are sure to win!" the subordinate eximed.


    "Good, hahaha! Next, let''s give it our all andpletely annihte the other two armies!" Xiaoyao Hou said excitedly.


    The same news spread in Zhao Tiansha''s camp.


    Both armies were too busy to determine the remaining strength of the Zhong family army, ensuring their inevitable defeat!


    In Lin Xiao''s camp.


    "Send a message to Zhao Tiansha, suggesting we unite our forces to attack Xiaoyao Hou!" Lin Xiao ordered.


    "Yes!" a messenger responded immediately.


    "Deputy Commander Lin, will this work? We have 500,000 troops, a definite advantage. Do we really need to unite with Zhao Tiansha''s forces? Will they even agree? It''s already fortunate they aren''t attacking us," Shui Wuhen asked, puzzled.


    "500,000? Who said we have 500,000?" Lin Xiaoughed.


    "Huh?" Shui Wuhen was confused.


    "In their eyes, we only have five or six thousand left. Haha!" Lin Xiao chuckled.


    Shui Wuhen was baffled!


    Soon, Zhao Tiansha agreed to Lin Xiao''s request.


    The Zhong and Zhao armies united to face Xiaoyao Hou!


    After one battle, the ''remaining 50,000'' Zhong family soldiers, unable to withstand the enemy, surrendered in droves. In no time, only ''10,000'' were left. However, they managed to hold off Xiaoyao Hou''s army, causing the loss of three more Emperor Extreme Realm experts in shes with the Zhao army.


    The fierce battle continued from morning until deep into the night.


    By the evening of the next day, both Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha''s armies were reduced to 50,000 soldiers each. Xiaoyao Hou had three Emperor Extreme Realm experts left, and Zhao Tiansha had one Emperor Extreme Realm guard remaining. The Zhong family army was down to ''a few hundred''. The fight had been incredibly brutal.


    The remaining forces gathered in a vast canyon for the final showdown.


    Xiaoyao Hou stood at one end of the canyon.


    "The final victory is ours. Eliminate these remnants, and it''s over. Charge!" Xiaoyao Houmanded.


    At the other end of the canyon!


    "Concentrate our forces and capture Xiaoyao Hou!" Zhao Tiansha shouted.


    "Yes!" The blood-soaked generals responded loudly.


    The two armies surged forward and shed. Above the canyon, Lin Xiao and his remaining 450,000 troops suddenly appeared.


    As the battle raged below, the forest trembled, and the ground shook with powerful aftershocks, making everyone''s footing unsteady.


    "Deputy Commander Lin, once they are both severely weakened, we can win without losing a single soldier," Shui Wuhen said.


    "No, we must intervene now," Lin Xiao said.


    "Huh? Why?" Shui Wuhen asked, confused.


    "You haven''t realized our current position? We are in an absolute position of victory right now. Should we wait and risk any unforeseen changes? Remember, when you have an absolute advantage, seize it. Don''t lose it out of greed for more," Lin Xiao exined.


    "Understood! I have learned my lesson!" Shui Wuhen responded earnestly.


    "Xiaoyao Hou, Zhao Tiansha!" Lin Xiao''s voice echoed from above the canyon.


    With Lin Xiao''s shout, the 450,000 soldiers on both sides nocked their Breaking Qi Arrows, aiming straight at the few remaining wounded soldiers below.


    Both Xiaoyao Hou''s and Zhao Tiansha''s troops paused and looked upward.


    Breaking Qi Arrows, countless Breaking Qi Arrows, from forty-five thousand soldiers?


    "Impossible! Impossible!" Xiaoyao Hou roared in disbelief.


    How could this be? The Zhong family army had only eighty thousand troops. They had been reduced to just a few hundred. How could there suddenly be tens of thousands more? Had they hidden soldiers somewhere?


    It was impossible! Xiaoyao Hou screamed in denial, his face a mask of disbelief and unreality. How could this be? How?


    Zhao Tiansha also screamed internally. Was Zhong Shan truly his nemesis?


    No matter how shocked or disbelieving they were, the fact remained��they were utterly defeated. One volley of arrows would ensure their annihtion.


    "Nooooooooooo!"


    Xiaoyao Hou screamed in denial, his eyes bloodshot, as he soared into the sky. Two Emperor Extreme Realm subordinates quickly restrained him. Xiaoyao Hou was on the verge of losing his mind.


    As for Zhao Tiansha, his Sky-Splitting Sword Technique was formidable, but against 450,000 Breaking Qi Arrows? Even the unrivaled Sky-Splitting Sword Technique couldn''t withstand the sheer force of such an onught.


    There was only one oue��they were captured.


    With eyes aze, Zhao Tiansha and Xiaoyao Hou red at Lin Xiao, the man they had once considered a mere underling, now standing triumphantly above them. This was a bitter pill to swallow.


    "Shui Wuhen, did you learn from this military exercise?" Lin Xiao asked.


    "Thank you, Deputy Commander Lin. I have learned immensely!" Shui Wuhen replied immediately.


    "Good!" Lin Xiao nodded.


    The referees then escorted Zhao Tiansha and Xiaoyao Hou out of the canyon.


    They had lost. Completely and utterly.


    "Shui Wuhen, I leave twenty thousand men with you. Don''t mess this up!" Lin Xiao instructed.


    "Rest assured, Deputy Commander Lin!" Shui Wuhen replied confidently.


    Lin Xiao then led the remaining 250,000 troops out of the canyon.


    Meanwhile, the outside world was in an uproar!


    Millions of eyes were fixed on the central za. Although twelve days had passed, the focus had never waned, not just because of Zhong Shan but also due to the ever-growing gambling stakes. Millions of people betting on the oue was a spectacr sight. Every time people emerged from the central za, the spectators analyzed them closely.


    The final results were out.


    Zhao Tiansha and Xiaoyao Hou were captured. The Zhong family army had won?


    Immediately, those who had bet on the Zhong family army erupted in excitement, while those who had bet on Zhao Tiansha and Xiaoyao Hou cursed loudly.


    The news of the Zhong family army''s victory spread rapidly in all directions. But what shocked everyone the most was that Lin Xiao emerged with 250,000 troops. Adding to the 350,000 outside, that made 600,000 in total. The Zhong family army had only lost ''200,000'' troops and managed to annihte abined force of two million? It was incredible, almost unreal.


    As the central za''s grand array was dismantled, the spiritual senses of millions of people flooded in. In an instant, the vast crowd outside the central za fell into stunned silence.


    "Master, what''s wrong?"


    "Teacher, why that expression?"


    ... Younger disciples quickly asked their elders.


    "There are still 200,000 Zhong family troops inside!" someone finally murmured, dumbfounded.


    As soon as the words were spoken, the crowd erupted like boiling oil in a hot pan.


    "How is that possible?"


    "Eighty thousand? Still eighty thousand? Just a few injuries? No, that can''t be right!"


    "Is it really still eighty thousand? Did Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha just fight each other without noticing so many Zhong family troops?"


    "This is insane! Who is themander of the Zhong family army?"


    "Lin Xiao? It''s Lin Xiao!"


    "Lin Xiao!"


    "Lin Xiao!"


    Instantly, Lin Xiao''s name spread like wildfire through the entire Lihuo Holy Capital. Millions of people would forever remember this powerfulmander, this supremely capable leader.


    Not losing a single soldier while defeating two million enemies? Was this a legend?


    Undoubtedly, Lin Xiao''s reputation soared. As a subordinate of Zhong Shan, this further elevated Zhong Shan''s status. The Zhong family army! Zhong Shan!


    On a mountain peak, Shaofei Hou stood with a beautiful woman in blue and his daughter, Bing Bing, watching Lin Xiao''s triumphant return, filled with admiration.


    "A previously unknown subordinate of Zhong Shan turned out to be so capable. It''s unbelievable. I''d love to challenge him myself," Shaofei Hou sighed.


    "Ow!" Shaofei Hou suddenly yelped in pain.


    The woman in blue beside him pinched his waist hard.


    "Are you regretting not participating in the martial contest?" she asked.


    "Of course not!" Shaofei Hou quickly replied. Bing Bing covered her mouth, giggling.


    ... Tian Linger stood in the northern pce of the central za, watching Lin Xiao lead his army back. Hearing the reports from her subordinates, she was thrilled.


    "Sister, Zhong Shan won! Zhong Shan won!" Tian Linger eximed excitedly.


    "Yes, go and announce it! Make sure there''s no cheating this time," Nie Qingqing smiled.


    "There won''t be!" Tian Linger clutched her little book tightly.


    Before the za, Tian Linger looked at Lin Xiao, Zhao Tiansha, and Xiaoyao Hou. Around them, millions of eyes were fixed on her.


    "I announce, Zhong Shan is first!" Tian Linger dered loudly.


    "Roarrrrr!"


    The Zhong family army erupted in cheers. Under Zhong Shan''s constant ideological indoctrination, Zhong Shan''s victory was their victory!


    The cheering of the Zhong family army echoed, and many spectators joined in the celebration. The entire Lihuo Holy Capital was filled with excitement.


    "I object!" Xiaoyao Hou suddenly roared.


    Xiaoyao Hou was furious, his eyes bloodshot, ring at Lin Xiao. Zhong family army? Zhong Shan? Even if he couldn''t have it, Zhong Shan wouldn''t either.


    Xiaoyao Hou''s roar silenced the crowd. Everyone turned to look at him with disdain, while the Zhong family army red at him with hatred.


    "Zhong Shan didn''t even participate. How can he be first? He wasn''t even here, how can he be first?" Xiaoyao Hou shouted frantically.


    As soon as he spoke, Tian Linger frowned, and the spectators also frowned. Meanwhile, Zhao Tiansha smirked subtly.


    Even Zhao Tiansha, as dim-witted as he might be, understood Xiaoyao Hou''s intention. If Zhong Shan wasn''t present, the martial contest would be invalid, and only the literary contest would count, which Zhao Tiansha had won!


    "I also object!" Zhao Tiansha chimed in.

 Chapter 454: Zhong Shan Descends Like a God

    <h4>Chapter 454: Zhong Shan Descends Like a God</h4>


    "I also object!" Zhao Tiansha followed suit.


    Zhao Tiansha''s objection added to the controversy. Although the Zhong family army''s victory was indisputable, the martial contest was supposed to be between Zhong Shan and the Three Prodigies. Zhong Shan hadn''t appeared, raising suspicions of a stand-in. Could this be considered Zhong Shan''s victory?


    "Princess Linger, with millions of eyes watching, you should not lie tantly," Xiaoyao Hou said with a sneer.


    "This!" Tian Linger was suddenly at a loss.


    What should I do? What should I do?


    Clutching the book "The Adventures of Zhong Shan and Linger," Tian Linger was at a loss. The Zhong family army had won, but Zhong Shan hadn''t appeared. Why hadn''t Zhong Shan appeared yet? Please, Zhong Shan, show up!


    At that moment, Tian Linger felt a surge of panic and unease. Was Zhong Shan really noting? Had he abandoned her?


    Feeling despondent, Tian Linger''s spirits sank. It was almost over, but Zhong Shan still hadn''t arrived. Why?


    If Zhong Shan didn''te, how would they decide the winner?


    "The martial contest is null and void. Princess Linger, you must respect the literary contest''s decision. Zhao Tiansha, the Crown Prince of Zhao, is the final victor!" Xiaoyao Houughed sinisterly.


    Senior Brother? Tian Linger looked at Zhao Tiansha.


    Despite her admiration for her senior brother, she didn''t want to marry him. But the literary contest had been her decision. Looking at the book in her hand, Tian Linger felt deeply saddened.


    Was this karma? Was heaven punishing her?


    Tian Linger felt immense sorrow, her tears threatening to fall. Zhong Shan, why isn''t it Zhong Shan?


    Just then, Nie Qingqing gently patted Tian Linger''s back.


    "Sister, Zhong Shan won. He truly won. It was all Zhong Shan," Tian Linger couldn''t help but cry.


    With millions of eyes on her, Tian Linger felt immense sadness, as if she had been wronged beyond measure.


    Xiaoyao Hou''s smile widened.


    "Hahaha, Princess Linger, you are the judge of the contest results. You can''t me anyone else. You must abide by the emperor''s decision and marry the final winner. It''s not our fault Zhong Shan didn''t show up," Xiaoyao Houughed maniacally.


    Tian Linger''s sense of grievance intensified.


    Millions of spectators watched with great interest. This drama was like an epic tale, unfoldingyer byyer.


    What was happening now? Was Xiaoyao Hou forcing a marriage?


    "Who said I didn''te?"


    Suddenly, a powerful voice echoed from all directions, shaking the hearts and minds of everyone present, even amidst the vast crowd of millions.


    It was Zhong Shan''s voice!


    Countless people recognized the voice of Zhong Shan. Millions of spectators felt a surge of excitement. The drama continued, and it wasn''t over yet! They quickly searched for the direction of Zhong Shan''s voice.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s voice, Lin Xiao let out a long sigh of relief, his face lighting up with excitement. The Zhong family army, too, showed expressions of reverence; Zhong Shan was their god!


    Xiaoyao Hou''s face twisted with rage, his earlier arrogance reced by intense hatred. Zhong Shan had returned? Zhao Tiansha also wore a dark, cold expression.


    From the sky, Zhong Shan descended like a divine being. His presence exuded an aura of authority and power, silencing the murmurs of the massive crowd. Hended gracefully, his gaze unwavering and determined.


    "Who dares to say I didn''te?" Zhong Shan''s voice boomed, as he stepped forward, his presencemanding the attention of everyone present.


    He actually came back at thest moment?


    Nie Qingqing held Tian Linger''s arm, her face trembling slightly with excitement for Tian Linger, beyond ecstatic. Tian Linger''s tears flowed freely, her eyes filled with happiness and excitement. In the midst of overwhelming longing, her emotions finally burst forth.


    Zhong Shan came, Zhong Shan returned, Zhong Shan came to take me away!


    Tian Linger wanted to shout, her heart bursting with excitement, but she maintained herposure, only her tears revealing her overwhelming joy.


    Zhong Shan was here!


    Suddenly, a clear and piercing sound echoed through the entire Lihuo Holy Capital, even before Zhong Shan appeared.


    A phoenix''s cry, prating the entire Lihuo Holy Capital, caused everyone to pause and enter a state of trance, even the Emperor Extreme Realm experts. The cry reverberated, shaking the souls of millions of people.


    The terrifying cry of the phoenix tore through the sky, dispersing all clouds and leaving the Lihuo Holy Capital in an eerie stillness.


    Silence! Utter silence!


    The Lihuo Holy Capital became so quiet that one could hear a pin drop. The terrifying phoenix cry stilled the heavens and the earth!


    It took five breaths before the souls of millions stopped trembling, and everyone looked around in cold sweat.


    Too powerful, too powerful! This phoenix cry was terrifying!


    "Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens!"


    Someone eximed.


    People shouted in astonishment. Was it really the Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens? The supreme technique of the phoenix?


    Countless people felt the terror of that moment, confirming it was indeed the Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens!


    Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha were both shocked. Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens? The phoenix supreme, Wu Jiutian, had arrived?


    Nie Qingqing, realizing what had happened, showed a look of wild joy. Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens, it really was the Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens! Linger''s seal was about to be broken!


    Beside her, Tian Linger had her eyes closed, a pained expression on her face, as if a flood of memories was suddenly pouring in, needing to be processed.


    "The so-called secret signal means that whenever I mention the signal, you must listen to me, no matter how unwilling you are. If you don''t, I''ll tell the Sect Master that you''re not obeying me."


    "What''s so fun about that? I''m not doing it."


    "No, we need to agree on this first. If what I ask you to do is wrong, you can tell the Sect Master. Even if he punishes me, I''ll ept it. But if you don''t agree, we won''t go out."


    "Okay, okay, you''re so nagging. I''ll listen to you."


    "Let''s choose something obscure. Hmm, you like eating ''osmanthus cake,'' so let''s use ''osmanthus cake'' as the signal. If I say osmanthus cake, it means I''m very serious, and you must listen to me. It''s a must."


    "Alright, alright, osmanthus cake, hehe!"


    "Do I look pretty today?"


    "Pretty, very pretty. Linger, don''t speak. The master will be here soon, and you''ll be safe."


    "Linger is clumsy and not as good as Sister Kui''er or Sister Bao''er, but Linger can die for you, and that makes her happy."


    "He said he woulde back. Zhong Shan actually came back at thest moment!" Nie Qingqing gripped Tian Linger''s arm, her face trembling with excitement for Tian Linger, immensely happy for her.


    Tian Linger''s tears flowed freely, her eyes filled with happiness and excitement. The longing and missing Zhong Shan had reached its peak, and now, finally, it exploded into overwhelming joy.


    Zhong Shan came back, Zhong Shan returned, Zhong Shan came to take me away!


    Tian Linger felt a surge of emotion, wishing to shout out loud, but she maintained herposure, though tears of joy streamed down her face.


    Zhong Shan was here!


    Suddenly, a clear and piercing sound echoed through the entire Lihuo Holy Capital, even before Zhong Shan appeared.


    A phoenix''s cry, prating the entire Lihuo Holy Capital, caused everyone to pause and enter a state of trance, even the Emperor Extreme Realm experts. The cry reverberated, shaking the souls of millions of people.


    The terrifying cry of the phoenix tore through the sky, dispersing all clouds and leaving the Lihuo Holy Capital in an eerie stillness.


    Silence! Utter silence!


    The Lihuo Holy Capital became so quiet that one could hear a pin drop. The terrifying phoenix cry stilled the heavens and the earth!


    It took five breaths before the souls of millions stopped trembling, and everyone looked around in cold sweat.


    Too powerful, too powerful! This phoenix cry was terrifying!


    "Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens!"


    Someone eximed.


    People shouted in astonishment. Was it really the Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens? The supreme technique of the phoenix?


    Countless people felt the terror of that moment, confirming it was indeed the Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens!


    Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha were both shocked. Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens? The phoenix supreme, Wu Jiutian, had arrived?


    Nie Qingqing, realizing what had happened, showed a look of wild joy. Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens, it really was the Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens! Linger''s seal was about to be broken!


    Beside her, Tian Linger had her eyes closed, a pained expression on her face, as if a flood of memories was suddenly pouring in, needing to be processed.


    "Don''t say anymore, you''ll be fine, you''ll definitely be fine." "Can Linger be your third wife?" "Yes, yes, heaven as our witness, from this day forth, Zhong Shan and Tian Linger are husband and wife, sharing life and death, never to part."


    Heaven as our witness, from this day forth, Zhong Shan and Tian Linger are husband and wife, sharing life and death, never to part.


    Heaven as our witness, from this day forth, Zhong Shan and Tian Linger are husband and wife, sharing life and death, never to part.


    ... The lost memories slowly returned! Clearer and clearer, more and more vivid, more and more smooth! Tian Linger''s initial pained expression gradually faded away, reced by a feeling of being moved, of happiness.


    Tears of joy slipped from the corners of her eyes! Tian Linger felt reluctant to open her eyes, this was such a beautiful memory, such a happy memory, she wanted to remember it a few more times, she wanted to recall it carefully. But Zhong Shan was waiting outside.


    Zhong Shan came to take me away, Zhong Shan came to take me away!


    Tian Linger, filled with tears of happiness, opened her eyes.


    At this moment, the sky was already dark! But in the distance, there was a dazzling light.


    Nie Qingqing beside her was stunned, and in the distance, Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha were also gaping in astonishment, while the Zhong family army was filled with excitement, some even trembling with excitement.


    Millions of spectators looked at the distant scene in shock and disbelief. This, this couldn''t be real?


    Am I dreaming?


    Almost everyone felt a surreal sense of disbelief.


    In the distance, amidst the night, a myriad of lights filled the sky. People could see, from the north, numerous points of light rapidly flying over. These points of light were not ordinary lights but numerous phoenixes, each enormous and radiant.


    Qingluan, Fire Phoenix, Ice Phoenix, Jingwei, Golden-winged Roc, a vast number of bird species with phoenix bloodlines were emitting various lights, making them look infinitely beautiful as they flew over.


    At the same time, countless birds were gathering towards the Lihuo Holy Capital.


    Birds, birds everywhere! More birds than the millions of people.


    The enormous birds brought with them massive turbulent airflow. Of course, the misceneous birds could only fly on the periphery, while the central area was dominated by the kings of birds, the phoenixes��one, ten, hundred, thousand, ten thousand.


    At least ten thousand phoenixes pped their wings, creating an unforgettable scene for everyone. It was too incredible!


    "Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens!" "Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens!" "Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens!"


    ... The simultaneous cry of ten thousand phoenixes, their beautiful voices prated the entire Lihuo Holy Capital, leaving everyone in a state of intoxication, followed by infinite shock.


    Millions of people, an infinitely grand sight! Billions of birds, an even grander sight! The simultaneous cry of ten thousand phoenixes brought an indescribable sense of awe!


    Phoenixes, the kings of birds, and symbols of auspiciousness. Even some officials in the Lihuo Holy Capital, if they had one or two phoenixes circling their mansion during a grand celebration, would boast about it to their colleagues for a long time. And phoenixes were so rare that perhaps there were only about twenty thousand on the entire Shenzhound. But now, there were ten thousand here? How was this possible? How auspicious was this, how shocking was this?


    Only in legends had such a scene urred��when the Great Li Dynasty was established, a thousand phoenixes came to congratte. But now, what was happening?


    The same scene of ten thousand phoenixes, and earlier, the Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens by the phoenix supreme!


    People felt as if they were in a cloud, until they saw the leading seven-colored phoenix with a proud figure standing on its back, a figure illuminated by the countless phoenixes and billions of birds, appearing like a god descending from the heavens!


    "Zhong Shan!" Someone first eximed.


    "It''s Zhong Shan!" "Zhong Shan is back!"

 Chapter 455: Grand Spectacle

    <h4>Chapter 455: Grand Spectacle</h4>


    "Zhong Shan!" "It''s Zhong Shan!" "Zhong Shan has returned!"


    Countless people cried out in astonishment. Zhong Shan, like a god descending from the heavens, rode a seven-colored phoenix, leading a massive army of phoenixes toward the central za. The scene was grand and magnificent beyond measure.


    The phoenix, the national beast of the Great Li Dynasty, was the only creature allowed to fly freely in the Lihuo Holy Capital without reprimand from Nie Fancheng. The chorus of ten thousand phoenixes filled the sky with auspicious, colorful clouds, creating a fantastical, dreamlike spectacle that entuated the already surreal scene.


    "Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens!" "Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens!" "Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens!"


    The ten thousand phoenixes cried out, amplifying Zhong Shan''s arrival with their overwhelming presence. Even though the seven-colored phoenix carrying Zhong Shan wasn''t Wu Jiutian, it couldn''t overshadow Zhong Shan''s divine-like aura, vast and boundless, creating an unstoppable momentum.


    The eyes of millions were filled with envy as they gazed upon Zhong Shan. Their hearts were shaken to the core. How had Zhong Shan convinced Wu Jiutian to mobilize so many phoenixes? And why had Wu Jiutian been willing to injure himself to perform the Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens?


    Regardless of the how, today was destined to be a day of Zhong Shan''s image further elevated. Zhong Shan''s name would once again reach its peak, making it impossible for millions to forget him.


    This spectacle would undoubtedly spread across thend of Shenzhou, reminding everyone of the illustrious Zhong Shan once more.


    Zhong Shan had returned!


    The Zhong family army was beyond excited. Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha''s faces were as dark as ink, while Tian Linger clenched her fists in excitement.


    Countless spectators parted, creating a path for Zhong Shan to fly through. His momentum was so overwhelming that even among millions of onlookers, a palpable pressure weighed on their hearts.


    In the Lihuo Holy Temple.


    The grand hall doors were tightly shut, with the formidable old eunuch standing guard outside. Inside, there were only three people: Nie Fancheng, Wu Jiutian, and Xuan Yuan.


    These three were among the top existences in Shenzhou, each only a step away from bing Immortals in the Heavenly Extreme Realm.


    "Ten thousand phoenixes singing in unison! Jiutian, you actually let Zhong Shan cause such amotion?" Nie Fancheng said calmly.


    "I have my reasons. But as for the Mingyuan Pill, you should forget about it," Wu Jiutian replied solemnly.


    "From the moment you performed the Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens, I knew. Don''t worry, I no longer desire the Mingyuan Pill. He has something I want even more," Nie Fancheng said in a deep voice.


    "Oh?" Wu Jiutian raised an eyebrow in slight confusion.


    "This Zhong Shan is no ordinary person. Without an ancient divine power existing, perhaps in less than a thousand years, a new dynasty would emerge on thend of Shenzhou," Nie Fancheng said faintly.


    "Ancient divine power? Isn''t he about to face the heavenly tribtion to achieve immortality and leave this world?" Wu Jiutian frowned.


    "Indeed, the strength of Gu Shentong makes achieving immortality possible, perhaps even more likely than your sess," Xuan Yuan said, looking at Wu Jiutian.


    Wu Jiutian frowned but didn''t argue, implicitly acknowledging that Gu Shentong was more powerful than himself.


    "Haha, you underestimate Gu Shentong! He cares about much more than just ''immortality.'' His ambitions go far beyond that," Nie Fancheng took a deep breath.


    "Oh?" The two were slightly surprised.


    "Do you remember the Great Hong Dynasty and Emperor Haotian?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "Haotian? The Great Hong Dynasty? The most powerful dynasty in Shenzhou back then?" Wu Jiutian frowned.


    Suddenly, Wu Jiutian seemed to realize something, "Are you saying Gu Shentong wants to..."


    Nie Fancheng nodded, his eyes filled with gravity.


    "But Emperor Haotian ultimately didn''t seed. Can the Great Luo Dynastypare to the Great Hong Dynasty of the past?" Xuan Yuan frowned.


    "Haotian eventually ascended to immortality in despair. His failure was due to fate. If not for the Dragon n''s supreme being''s arrogance, forcing Emperor Xuan to ascend and leave this world, Haotian might have seeded," Nie Fancheng sighed.


    "Gu Shentong wants toplete what was left unfinished?" Wu Jiutian was still shocked.


    "I suspect so. Haven''t you noticed the Tiger n''s supreme being has been absent for many years?" Nie Fancheng said.


    "He''s gathering strength, waiting for the final moment to fully support Gu Shentong?" Wu Jiutian immediately understood.


    "Yes, the Great Luo Dynasty is always prepared!" Nie Fancheng said.


    "And now, the world is bing increasingly unusual," Nie Fancheng mused.


    "Are you worried about the Crown Prince of Litie?" Wu Jiutian smiled.


    "Besides Litie, there''s also Zhong Shan!" Nie Fancheng said.


    "Zhong Shan? Is he also involved?" Wu Jiutian was surprised.


    "I''m not sure, but one of his subordinates is peculiar. That Mr. Shi, he''s also someone I''m looking for. He possesses something I need, something not of this world," Nie Fancheng said.


    "Mr. Shi?" Wu Jiutian frowned.


    The hall fell silent, the three not speaking.


    "I''ll go see Zhong Shan," Xuan Yuan nodded to the other two before disappearing instantly.


    The other two watched Xuan Yuan vanish. They didn''t stop him, clearly preferring some privacy.


    "Jiutian, I hadn''t nned to tell you this, but since you''ve given up on short-term immortality, you should know," Nie Fancheng said.


    "Oh?" Wu Jiutian was slightly surprised.


    "Gather all the phoenixes in Shenzhou as quickly as possible," Nie Fancheng said.


    Wu Jiutian frowned, not understanding Nie Fancheng''s intention.


    Nie Fancheng gently flipped his hand, and a seemingly ordinary bamboo flute appeared.


    As soon as the bamboo flute emerged, Wu Jiutian''s eyes turned cold, and a burst of murderous intent filled the hall, causing the temperature to drop significantly, with light snowkes drifting down.


    Taking a deep breath, Wu Jiutian suppressed his anger, his emotions suddenly turning nostalgic, tears lightly slipping from his eyes. He gently took the bamboo flute from Nie Fancheng''s hand.


    "This was sent by Zhong Shan on behalf of Gu Shentong. You know what it means, right?" Nie Fancheng said, closing his eyes.


    "I understand. Not a single phoenix in the world will be left out. I''ll summon them all!" Wu Jiutian said, his eyes filled with cold determination.


    "Good! After rescuing Zhuque, be ready. The time is near!" Nie Fancheng said.


    "Yes!" Wu Jiutian responded.


    Countless people cried out in astonishment. Zhong Shan, like a god descending from the heavens, rode a seven-colored phoenix, leading a massive army of phoenixes toward the central za. The scene was grand and magnificent beyond measure.


    The phoenix, the national beast of the Great Li Dynasty, was the only creature allowed to fly freely in the Lihuo Holy Capital without reprimand from Nie Fancheng. The chorus of ten thousand phoenixes filled the sky with auspicious, colorful clouds, creating a fantastical, dreamlike spectacle that entuated the already surreal scene.


    The seven-colored phoenixnded directly in front of Tian Linger.


    Tian Linger''s face was covered in tears��tears of emotion, happiness, and joy. What woman wouldn''t be moved by such a grand and magnificent scene of a wedding procession? The sky filled with auspicious signs, phoenixes dancing in the heavens, and millions watching in anticipation.


    Tian Linger was so moved she couldn''t speak.


    At that moment, in the south, a sudden burst of light exploded, like a giant flower blooming, disyed for all to see.


    A scroll of words, but it was massive.


    Written on white cloth, it unfurled slowly, gettingrger andrger until it formed a giant heart-shaped pattern over three thousand meters in diameter. The phoenixes surrounded it, crying out continuously, adding to the auspiciousness. It was incredibly dreamlike.


    Countless spectators watched with their mouths agape at the scroll. It was filled with words of blessing, millions of blessings. Each word was a person''s blessing.


    "Darling, when will you do something like that for me?" A voice emerged from the crowd. "I wish I were Zhong Shan''s wife!" "It''s so beautiful, I want one too. Next time, you have to make one for me." "Make everyone in the sect sign blessings for me! If you can''t do it, don''t bothering to see me again."


    The crowd was filled with envy.


    Xiaoyao Hou and Zhao Tiansha stood with darkened faces, ring coldly.


    Zhong Shan ignored them and looked at Tian Linger. Taking a deep breath, he walked to her, took her hand, and gently said, "Linger, I''vee to take you away!"


    In the depth of his feelings, one simple sentence, "I''vee to take you away," surpassed a thousand words.


    Tian Linger''s heart trembled with intense happiness. She threw herself into Zhong Shan''s arms.


    Ignoring everything else, Zhong Shan held Tian Linger tightly. What status or image? It didn''t matter.


    In front of millions, Zhong Shan held Tian Linger tightly, holding the woman he cherished beyond measure. Today, everything was done for Tian Linger.


    Millions of blessings! Millions of spectators! The cry of ten thousand phoenixes! Zhong Shan wanted to make the scene as grand as possible. Low-key? He didn''t need it. He was Zhong Shan, and no one could constrain his thoughts.


    Last time, Linger had desperately proposed before dying. It was all in a rush, filled with a sense of destion,cking any atmosphere of a wedding. This time waspensation; he wanted it to be a sensation across the world.


    He wanted the whole world to witness that Tian Linger was his wife!


    The onlookers, seeing Zhong Shan''s bold actions, frowned slightly. The female cultivators mostly looked infatuated. It was too romantic! Too happy!


    "Zhong Shan, what are you doing? This is the Great Li Dynasty. How dare you act so presumptuously?" Xiaoyao Hou suddenly jumped out, his eyes filled with malice. He couldn''t stand seeing Zhong Shan doing well, and in Lihuo Holy Capital, who dared to oppose him?


    Xiaoyao Hou''s unbridled outburst caused Zhong Shan to raise an eyebrow. Holding Tian Linger, he turned to re at Xiaoyao Hou.


    With that re, Xiaoyao Hou felt a chill in his heart. How could this be? Was he afraid of Zhong Shan? Just as he was about to cause a scene.


    "Get out!" Zhong Shan roared angrily.


    Before Zhong Shan''s roar finished.


    "Get out!"


    Lin Xiao waved his hand, and sixty thousand Zhong family soldiers shouted in unison. The sound shook the surroundings, and Xiaoyao Hou felt a chill. Did Zhong Shan really dare to confront him here?


    "Get out!"


    Among the millions of onlookers, someone took the lead, shouting loudly, followed by many who had been bullied by Xiaoyao Hou.


    Mixed in the crowd, some troublemakers also joined in.


    "Get out!" "Get out!"


    Millions of people cursing, the effect was incredibly shocking.


    "Spurt!"


    Xiaoyao Hou spat out a mouthful of blood, his eyes filled with horror. Thebined curse of millions not only enraged him but also wrapped him in terrifying karma.


    Staggering back, Xiaoyao Hou looked at the overwhelming opposition and knew he was utterly defeated.

 Chapter 456: Any Trouble

    <h4>Chapter 456: Any Trouble</h4>


    Millions of people watched as Xiaoyao Hou spat out blood, each with a unique expression of surprise. Though tales of a thousand voices striking gold and destroying bones were legendary, witnessing it firsthand was an exhrating experience. For most, it was a once-in-a-lifetime event, and happening right before their eyes made it all the more exciting.


    Immediately, the chant of "Get out!" echoed without end.


    With millions chanting, the scene was overwhelming. Surrounded by countlessyers of people shouting, Xiaoyao Hou couldn''t bear it any longer. He signaled, and a subordinate quickly carried him away. As he flew off, still spitting blood, Xiaoyao Hou cast a venomous nce at Zhong Shan in the distance.


    Zhong Shan coldly met his gaze, indifferent to his departure.


    "Let''s go!" Zhao Tiansha, recognizing the terror of the situation, led his subordinates away swiftly.


    In an instant, the troublesome figures vanished. The overwhelming tide of public opinion left no room for resistance, and leaving early was better than facing the humiliation Xiaoyao Hou had endured.


    At this moment, Tian Linger became acutely aware of the millions of eyes on her, her face flushing red with embarrassment.


    Zhong Shan released his embrace, holding Tian Linger''s hand, and pointed to the heart-shaped scroll.


    "Linger, these people are our witnesses. That ''Million Blessings'' scroll is a permanent token of my love for you. The cry of ten thousand phoenixes celebrates us. Last time was rushed and somewhat humble; today, I want to proudly tell the world that you are my wife," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" Tian Linger nodded, deeply moved.


    Gently extending her hand, Tian Linger intertwined her fingers with Zhong Shan''s, just as they had done when heaven witnessed their vows.


    "Do you remember what I saidst time?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Heaven as our witness, from this day forth, Zhong Shan and Tian Linger are husband and wife, sharing life and death, never to part," Tian Linger recalled. This phrase would forever be etched in her memory.


    "Heaven as our witness, Zhong Shan and Tian Linger are husband and wife, sharing life and death, never to part!" Zhong Shan dered again.


    "Heaven as our witness, Tian Linger and Zhong Shan are husband and wife, sharing life and death, never to part!" Tian Linger echoed.


    At that moment, despite the millions present, there wasplete silence. Even the phoenixes ceased their cries, and the surroundings fell utterly quiet, with only Zhong Shan and Tian Linger''s words echoing around.


    Their words seemed sacred, stilling the entire world.


    Nie Qingqing, standing nearby, was moved to tears, covering her mouth as the tears streamed down her face. She wasn''t the only one; many women in the crowd were deeply emotional, their eyes welling up with tears. This sacred moment, witnessed by the world, moved countless people to tears.


    "Linger,e with me!" Zhong Shan said once more.


    "Yes!" Tian Linger agreed without hesitation.


    Zhong Shanughed heartily, then turned to theyers of onlookers.


    "Thank you all for witnessing this moment. As a token of my gratitude, I''ll share a fact with you!" Zhong Shan announced.


    As he spoke, everyone fell silent again.


    "I''m sure you''re all curious why the Phoenix Sovereign helped me so much."


    Everyone nodded in agreement.


    "It''s because the immortal longevity elixir disyed previously has been given to the Phoenix Sovereign. Perhaps it no longer exists in this world," Zhong Shan continued.


    When Zhong Shan finished speaking, the crowd erupted in a frenzy.


    The Immortal Longevity Elixir? Yes, only the Immortal Longevity Elixir could have persuaded the Phoenix Sovereign to perform the Phoenix Cry of the Nine Heavens and summon ten thousand phoenixes! If it no longer existed, it meant it had already been consumed��by the Phoenix Sovereign!


    Immediately, emotions of anger, frustration, and regret surged within the crowd. But what could they do? The exchange for the Immortal Longevity Elixir was beyond their capabilities.


    Some called Zhong Shan foolish, while others saw him as deeply romantic, willing to give up immortality for a woman.


    Simultaneously, many female cultivators turned to their partners.


    "If you had the Immortal Longevity Elixir, would you give up immortality for me?"


    Suddenly, many partners swore oaths, iming they would be even more devoted than Zhong Shan if they possessed such an elixir.


    The za buzzed with excitement. Even without seeing the Immortal Longevity Elixir, everyone felt their trip was worth it. The events of the day would be talked about for a long, long time.


    "Lin Xiao, clear the way!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao responded loudly.


    Zhong Shan, with Tian Linger, mounted the seven-colored phoenix once more and flew south, apanied by the numerous phoenixes. The Zhong family army followed closely, with Nie Qingqing carrying the plucked Zhuque following them.


    That very night, Zhong Shan and Tian Linger left.


    Under countless wistful gazes, they departed from the Lihuo Holy Capital swiftly.


    Zhong Shan knew that prolonged exposure would only invite trouble.


    At first, some people secretly followed them, but gradually, the number of followers dwindled.


    Once out of the Lihuo Holy Capital, the ten thousand phoenixes dispersed, even the seven-colored phoenix that Zhong Shan rode, knowing its mission wasplete, spread its wings and flew away.


    Only the Zhong family army and Nie Qingqing remained.


    The army continued marching until ten dayster, when they were sure there were no followers. They then rested in a valley.


    Tian Linger took the plucked Zhuque, and Zhong Shan turned to Nie Qingqing.


    Zhong Shan bowed deeply to Nie Qingqing, with Tian Linger following suit.


    "Thank you, Princess Qingqing, for everything during this time," Zhong Shan said.


    "It''s nothing. I couldn''t just watch Linger remain unhappy. Even the best of friends must part eventually. I must take my leave now," Nie Qingqing shook her head with a smile.


    "Sister!" Tian Linger said, somewhat reluctant.


    "You''ll be happier with Zhong Shan. Take good care of yourself, and listen to Zhong Shan," Nie Qingqing smiled.


    "Yes!" Tian Linger said, holding back her tears.


    "Princess Qingqing, from saving Linger to assisting us during this time, your great kindness cannot be repaid with words. In the future, if you ever encounter any trouble,e to Tiang Ind. You will always find me and Linger there, and I, Zhong Shan, will stand by you for any trouble you face," Zhong Shan promised earnestly.


    Any trouble? Such bold words!


    Nie Qingqing looked at Zhong Shan with a slightly amused expression. As a princess of the Great Li Dynasty, how could she possibly encounter trouble?


    "I understand. Take good care of Linger," Nie Qingqing said.


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    Just then, Nie Qingqing noticed Zhi Huo the wolf general nearby with Qinghong by his side.


    "Qinghong, congrattions on finding a good match!" Nie Qingqing said.


    "Princess Qingqing, I''ll miss you. If I have the chance, I''lle back to see you," Qinghong replied.


    "Take care, all of you!" Nie Qingqing said, feeling a bit emotional. She then turned and flew away quickly.


    Nie Qingqing flew swiftly, fearing she would be reluctant to leave. Watching Zhong Shan and Tian Linger depart filled her with blessings, but also an inexplicable sour feeling, a mix of envy and something else. She wasn''t just reluctant to part with Tian Linger, but felt there was something more.


    As she flew, she couldn''t help but feel aplex mix of emotions. While she was happy for Tian Linger, a part of her heart felt heavy with a sense of longing and unspoken feelings.


    Nie Qingqing flew away quickly and disappeared from sight.


    Watching her vanish, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and turned to Tian Linger. "Linger, you go back to the valley camp first. I''ll be there shortly."


    "Is there something wrong?" Tian Linger asked, puzzled.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Tian Linger nodded obediently and left with Qinghong and Zhi Huo.


    Soon, a figure flew over from the base of a nearby mountain. It was Mr. Shi!


    As Mr. Shi arrived beside Zhong Shan, four other figures suddenly appeared before them.


    Xuan Yuan, Wu Jiutian, Nie Fancheng, and the old eunuch.


    "Thank you, Phoenix Sovereign!" Zhong Shan said sincerely.


    "Enough with the pleasantries. Where is the Mingyuan Pill?" Wu Jiutian asked bluntly.


    Zhong Shan gave Mr. Shi a look, and Mr. Shi immediately took out the ''Immortal Longevity Elixir.'' Nie Fancheng quietly observed Mr. Shi, his eyes filled with a strange intent.


    Zhong Shan handed over the Mingyuan Pill, and Wu Jiutian quickly grabbed it and vanished from sight. Zhong Shan knew she was going to check on Tian Linger.


    "Greetings to the Emperor of Great Li!" Zhong Shan said.


    "So, you think you can just take my princess away like this?" Nie Fancheng said in a deep voice.


    "Linger is my wife. Taking my wife away is my responsibility. I hope the Emperor of Great Li can understand," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Zhong Shan knew Nie Fancheng had other matters to discuss.


    "But you have not fulfilled your promise. You said you would hand over the Immortal Longevity Elixir to me. Why did you give it to someone else?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    "Is the Phoenix Sovereign considered someone else? Haha, Emperor of Great Li, if you have any requests, please state them directly. I will weigh the pros and cons and give you a fair answer," Zhong Shan replied.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Nie Fancheng didn''t know whether to be angry or amused. A fair answer? That was as good as saying nothing.


    Looking at Mr. Shi, Nie Fancheng said, "I want that rune from that day!"


    "Rune?" Zhong Shan looked at Mr. Shi.


    "Your Majesty, I happen to have an extra celestial talisman," Mr. Shi said.


    Upon hearing this, Zhong Shan understood Mr. Shi''s meaning. Those talismans were plentiful for Mr. Shi, and he had no problem parting with one.


    Nie Fancheng''s eyes lit up slightly, but his expression remained unchanged. He seemed to realize something, and his face gradually darkened.


    "Emperor of Great Li, in my youth, I was a merchant and made countless deals. I would like to exchange this rune for something that might be insignificant to you," Zhong Shan said.


    Negotiating? Nie Fancheng looked at Zhong Shan curiously. This person, whom he could crush with a finger, dared to negotiate with him?


    Xuan Yuan, standing beside him, also found it odd. This young man really didn''t know his ce!


    "Oh? Let''s hear it," Nie Fancheng said, oddly not showing anger.


    "In the past, the Great Hong Dynasty had eleven Immortal Steles. In the hands of the Emperor of Great Li, they might be insignificant. I would like to have one," Zhong Shan said directly.


    Immortal Steles?


    Nie Fancheng and Xuan Yuan''s pupils contracted simultaneously.


    "Bold, very bold!" Nie Fancheng said mysteriously.


    Bold? Zhong Shan didn''t understand the peculiar nature of the Immortal Steles, but since Nie Fancheng agreed, Zhong Shan didn''t want to linger. He immediately looked at Mr. Shi.


    Mr. Shi took out a celestial talisman and handed it to Nie Fancheng. The talisman shimmered with an ethereal glow, exuding a mysterious and powerful aura. Nie Fancheng examined it closely, his eyes filled with satisfaction.


    "Very well, Zhong Shan. You have the Immortal Stele you requested," Nie Fancheng said, producing a small, ancient-looking stele from his sleeve and handing it to Zhong Shan.


    "Thank you, Emperor of Great Li," Zhong Shan said, epting the stele with a bow.


    "Remember, Zhong Shan, our agreement. If you ever need assistance or have further dealings, you know where to find me," Nie Fancheng said, a hint of amusement in his tone.


    "Of course, Emperor of Great Li. I will remember," Zhong Shan replied.


    With the transactionplete, Zhong Shan and Mr. Shi prepared to leave.


    As they flew back towards the valley camp, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but reflect on the day''s events. He had achieved his goal and ensured Tian Linger''s safety. The Immortal Stele in his possession was a valuable asset, and the celestial talisman had secured his agreement with Nie Fancheng.


    Arriving at the valley camp, Tian Linger rushed to greet him, her face filled with relief and happiness.


    "Zhong Shan, is everything alright?" she asked.


    "Yes, everything is fine now," Zhong Shan said, embracing her.


    The journey ahead was uncertain, but with Tian Linger by his side and the support of their allies, Zhong Shan felt prepared to face whatever challengesy ahead.

 Chapter 457: A Life for a Life

    <h4>Chapter 457: A Life for a Life</h4>


    "Go back and bring the Immortal Stele," Nie Fanchengmanded.


    "Yes!" The old eunuch behind Nie Fancheng responded immediately, then his figure flickered and vanished!


    Mr. Shi also took out a jade talisman. It resembled a mahjong tile but was made of white jade, with a blue rune on it that pulsated slightly, looking both illusory and real. He handed it gently to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan looked at the jade talisman with slight surprise before passing it over.


    With a wave of Nie Fancheng''s hand, the jade talisman disappeared!


    Nie Fancheng gave Zhong Shan a deep look, then nced deeply at Mr. Shi before showing a meaningful smile. His figure flickered and disappeared before Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan wasn''t worried that Nie Fancheng wouldn''t bring the Immortal Stele. After all, when the Emperor gives his word, it is as weighty as a thousand mountains!


    Sure enough, it didn''t take long before the old eunuch flew back swiftly.


    "Boom!"


    Eleven Immortal Steles were dropped down, and the old eunuch vanished in an instant.


    With a flip of his hand, Zhong Shan collected them, letting out a long breath. Xuan Yuan had been watching without intervening.


    "Friend Xuan Yuan, I noticed you were slightly surprised when Nie Fancheng asked for the Immortal Stele earlier. May I know why?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Uh?" Xuan Yuan was slightly surprised.


    "Could it be that there is some secret about the Immortal Stele?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "You don''t know?" Xuan Yuan''s expression became more interesting. You asked for the Immortal Stele without knowing what it''s for? And you even knew exactly how many Nie Fancheng had?


    "I''m collecting them for a friend," Zhong Shan exined.


    "A friend?" Xuan Yuan found it even more peculiar.


    "Why? What is the purpose of the Immortal Stele? I only know that the Great Hong Dynasty used to ce them randomly in different cities! I don''t know their specific use. Do you know, friend Xuan Yuan?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    Xuan Yuan took a deep breath and said, "This is the pinnacle item for cultivating fame. I don''t know everything, but I know that Emperor Haotian prepared it to face heavenly might. However, due to special reasons, it wasn''t used. Incidentally, your Great Luo Dynasty has something simr."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked slightly puzzled.


    "Doesn''t the Great Luo Dynasty have the Seven Star Hall, with seven major sects: Tian Shu, Tian Xuan, Tian Ji, Tian Quan, Yu Heng, Kai Yang, and Yao Guang?" Xuan Yuan asked.


    "That''s right!" Zhong Shan nodded with a frown.


    He himself came from the Kai Yang Sect. How was this rted to cultivating fame?


    "It seems these seven major sects simte a powerful Big Dipper Formation?" Zhong Shan asked, stating what he knew.


    "The Big Dipper Formation?" Xuan Yuan shook his head, showing a faint smile.


    "Isn''t it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Have you ever heard of ''Treading the Seven Stars, Defying Fate''?" Xuan Yuan asked.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up. Although he hadn''t heard of it, he could understand. The ancient magical technique of treading the seven stars?


    "Are you saying the seven major sects were actually meant for the Great Luo Emperor to change fate?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    "This is all I know," Xuan Yuan shook his head.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    Regardless, he had a rough idea now! It seemed the Immortal Stele wasn''t just some dispensable item but an unparalleled, powerful one. No wonder it was collected by various dynasties and holynds.


    Back at the Camp


    Returning to the camp, after settling Xuan Yuan and Mr. Shi, Zhong Shan went straight to the central tent.


    "Ling''er, did Wu Jiutian leave?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, you didn''t see it earlier. It was amazing! Xiao Hong''s fur grew backpletely!" Tian Ling''er said excitedly, rolling up her sleeve to show Zhong Shan her arm.


    On Tian Ling''er''s arm was a fiery red totem of a Vermilion Bird. It was the Vermilion Bird totem Zhong Shan had seen in his youth on Earth, not the red sparrow of the past.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    "This is Xiao Hong. Earlier, Xiao Hong ate a strange fruit, then her entire body burst into mes, and all her fur grew back. She turned into this form and finally burrowed into my body, bing this pattern!" Tian Ling''er exined.


    "Wu Jiutian didn''t take the Vermilion Bird?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "No, Xiao Hong only likes me. Sister Wu said Xiao Hong is hibernating and wille out on her own when she wakes up," Tian Ling''er said.


    "Hibernating? Does it affect you in any way?" Zhong Shan asked worriedly.


    Although he didn''t understand Wu Jiutian''s intentions, having the Vermilion Bird residing in Ling''er''s body made Zhong Shan very uneasy.


    "No, after Xiao Hong turned into this totem, I found more and more fire energy flowing into my body. My cultivation is progressing faster and faster, even when I''m not actively cultivating!" Tian Ling''er said after thinking for a moment.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan looked at the Vermilion Bird totem with a strange expression.


    If it''s a blessing, not a curse, then there''s no need to worry for now.


    Zhong Shan''s army, after leaving the Sacred Capital of Li Huo, quickly headed towards the Great Luo Dynasty. With Xuan Yuan, a powerful and unmatched protector, there was no need to worry about any danger.


    Finally, after two more months, they left the territory of the Great Li Dynasty.


    The group continued on, with Xuan Yuan testing Mr. Shi several times, but Mr. Shi remained silent and unresponsive, causing Xuan Yuan to shake his head and sigh lightly.


    One day, the group arrived at a desert.


    Suddenly, Xuan Yuan, standing beside Zhong Shan, waved his hand.


    Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow and stopped the army.


    "What''s wrong?" Tian Ling''er asked, puzzled.


    "Don''t speak!" Zhong Shan said softly.


    Shui Wuhen quickly ordered the army into abat stance. Mr. Shi and Lin Xiao stood guard beside Zhong Shan.


    "Which Buddha is here? Please show yourself!" Xuan Yuan called out gently.


    Xuan Yuan''s words made Zhong Shan tense up, signaling Tian Ling''er to stay still.


    A Buddha? Damn! The Pure Land actually sent a Buddha to intercept us?


    "Swish, swish, swish..."


    The sound of retreating tides echoed, and suddenly, a bright light shed in the distance. From that bright light, a vast expanse of greenery spread out, covering the desert rapidly.


    From that point of light, greenery spread, transforming into oases that grewrger and more numerous. In the blink of an eye, half the desert was covered in green, and the greenery continued to spread until not a single grain of sand was left. The desert had turned into a lush forest.


    At the same time, a man in a golden kasaya gradually appeared from the original point of light. The man had a solemn expression, his hands sped in prayer, and behind his head, a halo of merit had turned into a gigantic Dharma Wheel.


    It was the same Dharma Wheel Zhong Tian had obtained previously��the Twenty-Four Heavens Dharma Wheel! Within the Dharma Wheel, twenty-four heavenly worlds revolved slowly, looking incredibly divine and mystical. Just a nce made one feel as if they were seeing different worlds.


    The Pure Land! And now, the Buddha of Return!


    The strongest Buddha in the Pure Land, Guiyuan Buddha, stood before them with Piaoxiang Bodhisattva following closely behind. The mere presence of Guiyuan Buddha made everyone feel an indescribable difort, as if the Buddha radiated countless beams of light that oppressed everyone,pelling them to bow down in worship. Even Zhong Shan''s face twisted in pain as he resisted this pressure, which did note from aura or magical power, but from deep within their hearts.


    The urge to bow down felt like a voice in their minds insisting that they must worship him.


    "Fall back!" Shui Wuhen quickly ordered.


    The Zhong family army retreated swiftly, and Guiyuan Buddha paid them no mind. This left only Zhong Shan and hispanions to bear the psychological pressure. Even Zhihuo and Qinghong, two powerful figures in the Royal Extreme Realm, showed expressions of pain, seemingly struggling against their own minds.


    Only two people remained unaffected: Xuan Yuan and Tian Ling''er.


    "Zhong Shan, what''s wrong? Don''t scare me!" Tian Ling''er cried out worriedly.


    Seeing Tian Ling''erpletely unaffected, Zhong Shan was momentarily stunned. Mr. Shi, Zhihuo, Qinghong, and Lin Xiao were also taken aback, as was the usually aloof Xuan Yuan. Even Guiyuan Buddha and Piaoxiang Bodhisattva in the distance showed surprise.


    Tian Ling''er''s cultivation was only at the Integration Stage. How could she be unaffected?


    "Guiyuan Buddha, what are you trying to do? Are you just here to show off your superior destiny?" Xuan Yuan said coldly.


    Destiny? Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed, finally understanding. Destiny! The Celestial Realm''s experts could release their own destiny aura to suppress others. Anyone with a weaker destiny would experience immense psychological pressure, just as he was now, his own destiny clearly inferior to Guiyuan Buddha''s.


    There''s a saying, "A destiny not as valuable as someone else''s." Guiyuan Buddha might not be immortal yet, but his destiny was among the most precious in the world. Releasing his destiny aura created immense pressure on those with weaker destinies.


    Destiny suppresses destiny!


    As for Xuan Yuan and Tian Ling''er, Xuan Yuan''s destiny was on par with Guiyuan Buddha''s, so he was unaffected. Tian Ling''er, however, was likely protected by the Vermilion Bird. The Vermilion Bird''s destiny was that of an immortal; a mortal destiny could not suppress an immortal one. Low-level destinies couldn''t affect higher ones.


    "The Buddha invites Zhong Shan to the Pure Land as a guest," Piaoxiang Bodhisattva suddenly spoke up.


    Piaoxiang Bodhisattva spoke for Guiyuan Buddha? The Silent Meditation of Guiyuan Buddha wasn''tplete, so he couldn''t speak.


    Before Zhong Shan could respond, Tian Ling''er burst out angrily, "No way! Is this how you invite someone?"


    Seeing Zhong Shan in pain, Tian Ling''er, though unsure of the specifics, guessed it was the work of the big bald guy. Her heart ached for Zhong Shan, filling her with resentment towards Guiyuan Buddha.


    Guiyuan Buddha kept his eyes on Tian Ling''er, a flicker of uncertainty shing within them. One Xuan Yuan was already unexpected; now, another red-d woman appeared. Despite her ant-like cultivation, how could she be unaffected? Even when he specifically targeted her with his destiny aura, it was reflected back at him. How could this be possible?

 Chapter 458: The Misfortune of Guiyuan Buddha

    <h4>Chapter 458: The Misfortune of Guiyuan Buddha</h4>


    Guiyuan Buddha looked at Tian Ling''er with immense gravity. Although Tian Ling''er had once been a princess, Guiyuan Buddha was unaware of this. He was too preupied with his own myriad affairs to pay attention to the identities of various emperors and princesses. Consequently, he was deceived by Tian Ling''er''s destiny and felt a flicker of uncertainty and doubt in his eyes.


    "Please, Zhong Shan,e with us to the Pure Land," Piaoxiang Bodhisattva said coldly.


    "When did it be your turn to speak?" Xuan Yuan''s eyes widened in anger.


    Immediately, Xuan Yuan released his own destiny aura, causing Piaoxiang Bodhisattva to feel a deep fear in her heart, her face showing signs of pain.


    Guiyuan Buddha nced at Xuan Yuan and waved at Piaoxiang Bodhisattva to indicate that she should remain silent. Piaoxiang Bodhisattva promptly closed her mouth.


    Zhong Shan watched coldly. When Guiyuan Buddha looked at Zhong Shan, he remained wary of Tian Ling''er. To be the foremost Buddha in the Pure Land, Guiyuan Buddha had to be incredibly powerful. Even though Xuan Yuan released his own destiny aura, revealing himself as a Celestial Realm expert, Guiyuan Buddha remained unafraid. He was confident that he could forcibly take someone away even in Xuan Yuan''s presence.


    The only person Guiyuan Buddha was cautious of was the unfamiliar woman who seemed unaffected by his destiny aura and could even reflect it back. Who was she? Could her destiny be stronger than his? Unless she was an immortal, but immortals couldn''t exist in this world.


    Unable to discern Tian Ling''er''s true identity, Guiyuan Buddha decided to test her.


    He raised his right index finger to the sky, releasing a powerful aura. His eyes conveyed a sense of disdain for all life.


    Seeing this gesture, Xuan Yuan''s eyes grew cold, and anger red in them. He clearly understood Guiyuan Buddha''s intention.


    Zhong Shan did not understand the gesture, but Tian Ling''er suddenly looked shocked. She extended her right hand and pushed it forward.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er''s response, Xuan Yuan was momentarily stunned. Guiyuan Buddha took a deep breath, retracting his finger, and his eyes filled with solemnity. He then ced his right hand horizontally at his abdomen, lifting it slightly to his chest, and looked at Tian Ling''er with a confident expression, as if challenging her.


    Xuan Yuan watched coldly, taking a deep breath before turning to Tian Ling''er.


    Tian Ling''er, seeing Guiyuan Buddha''s action, was slightly stunned. She shook her head and extended both hands, pointing all ten fingers downward.


    Now, everyone was watching Tian Ling''er and Guiyuan Buddha''s silent confrontation. Only Xuan Yuan seemed to understand, his eyes growing increasingly serious before he smirked coldly at Guiyuan Buddha.


    Guiyuan Buddha, seeing Tian Ling''er''s gesture and shaking her head, raised an eyebrow in surprise and increasing solemnity. He then sped his hands together, lifted his right foot, and lightly stomped the ground.


    "Boom!"


    The ground below rippled like a wave, turning up fresh soil.


    Guiyuan Buddha finished his action and looked at Tian Ling''er with a cold expression.


    Tian Ling''er, seeing his move, showed a hint of disdain, flipping her hand to reveal a small cloud in her palm before looking up at the sky.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er''s action, Xuan Yuan showed a look of astonishment and uncertainty in his eyes.


    Guiyuan Buddha, witnessing this, reacted as if he had received shocking news. His hand trembled, clearly shaken by Tian Ling''er''s response.


    Guiyuan Buddha took several deep breaths, his eyes filled with disbelief as he pointed at the cloud in Tian Ling''er''s hand. Tian Ling''er tossed the cloud beneath her feet and stood upon it.


    At this moment, Guiyuan Buddha''s eyes widened in shock and disbelief, but ultimately, he seemed resigned. He sped his hands together and took a few deep breaths before bowing respectfully. The oppressive destiny aura he had been emitting was quickly withdrawn, as if he dared not act rashly in front of Tian Ling''er.


    "May I ask your esteemed surname?" Guiyuan Buddha finally couldn''t hold back his question.


    The moment he spoke, it meant his Silent Meditation had been broken! Although it was regretful, he couldn''t help but ask. Piaoxiang Bodhisattva beside him was filled with panic. Broken? How could this be? The woman before them had broken the Buddha''s Silent Meditation?


    "My surname is Tian. Now, you should leave!" Tian Ling''er replied impatiently.


    With a slight bow, Guiyuan Buddha and Piaoxiang Bodhisattva instantly disappeared, leaving the scene.


    At this point, Xuan Yuan looked at Tian Ling''er with immense shock and confusion, his eyes full of uncertainty.


    "Friend Xuan Yuan, is something wrong?" Zhong Shan asked immediately.


    "Is what Princess Ling''er said just now true?" Xuan Yuan asked, looking at Mr. Shi nearby for confirmation.


    "What do you mean true? Refusing that bald guy? Of course," Tian Ling''er replied quickly.


    "Refusing? What refusal?" Xuan Yuan asked, puzzled.


    Tian Ling''er also looked at Xuan Yuan with confusion. What was he talking about?


    Zhong Shan seemed to realize something and looked at Xuan Yuan, asking, "What did the riddle between Guiyuan Buddha and Ling''er mean just now?"


    Xuan Yuan adjusted his emotions and looked at Zhong Shan, saying, "Guiyuan Buddha pointed to the sky, boasting ''I am supreme in the heavens and earth.'' Princess Ling''er responded by extending her five fingers and pushing forward, meaning ''The five decays of celestial beings, you will die sooner orter.'' Guiyuan Buddha raised his hand in front of him, lifting it slightly, indicating ''Destiny elevation, immortal life.'' Princess Ling''er shook her head with both hands pointing downward, signifying ''Surrounded on all sides, you will meet a bad end.'' Guiyuan Buddha stomped the ground, saying ''Pure Land, who dares to be impudent?'' Princess Ling''er flipped her hand to reveal a small cloud and looked at the sky, indicating ''From the clouds above, Ie from the heavens.'' Guiyuan Buddha, unsure, pointed at the cloud, and Princess Ling''er stepped on it, symbolizing she came from the upper realms."


    Tian Ling''er was stunned, her mouth agape. Could it be interpreted that way?


    "I noticed Princess Ling''er''s destiny is extraordinary, like that of an immortal. Could she truly be from the upper realms?" Xuan Yuan asked, still uncertain.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er''s expression, Zhong Shan realized there had been a huge misunderstanding.


    Turning to Tian Ling''er, he asked, "Ling''er, what just happened? What did he ask, and how did you respond?"


    "Well, didn''t they say they wanted to invite you to the Pure Land earlier?" Tian Ling''er asked.


    "Yes, Piaoxiang Bodhisattva said that," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "I wondered why the bald guy wanted to invite you. Then, he raised one finger and said, ''Invite you for a meal,''" Tian Ling''er exined.


    "Invite me for a meal?" Zhong Shan''s expression turned peculiar.


    Xuan Yuan was dumbfounded. Invite for a meal? Zhihuo, Qinghong, and others couldn''t help butugh.


    "Yes, so I extended my hand and clearly told the bald guy we weren''t going," Tian Ling''er continued.


    Thinking about Xuan Yuan''s interpretation of ''the five decays of celestial beings,'' Zhong Shan''s expression grew even stranger. Qinghong struggled to contain herughter, and even Xuan Yuan broke out in a cold sweat.


    "The bald guy then made a gesture with his hand on his chest, lifting it slowly like a bowl. He must have been saying, ''Thene to the Pure Land for porridge!''" Tian Ling''er said.


    "Invite me for porridge?" Zhong Shan''s face became more unnatural.


    "Yes, so I extended both hands, showing him ''We don''t even want to eat, how could we go for porridge?''"


    Tian Ling''er looked as if her exnation was perfectly logical. At this moment, Qinghong and Zhihuo couldn''t hold back any longer and burst intoughter. Xuan Yuan stared at Tian Ling''er in disbelief. Drinking porridge?


    "What aboutter? When Guiyuan Buddha stomped the ground, making new soil appear, what did that mean?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Oh, the bald guy said, ''If you don''t eat, you won''t have the strength to walk!''" Tian Ling''er replied.


    Even the most stoic Lin Xiao couldn''t help butugh, and Mr. Shi showed a rare smile. Xuan Yuan stood there like a wooden statue, processing the idea that not eating would make you unable to walk.


    "And then?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Then I summoned a cloud to tell him, ''I don''t need to walk; we can fly in the sky,''" Tian Ling''er said with a touch of disdain.


    "After that, the bald guy still didn''t believe me and pointed at the cloud, thinking it was too small. So I made the cloud bigger, stood on it to show him, and dispelled his idea of inviting us to eat," Tian Ling''er said.


    "Oh no, I can''t take it anymore!" Qinghong clutched her stomach,ughing to the point of breathlessness. Zhihuo was wiping away tears fromughing so hard.


    "Hahahahaha!" Lin Xiao finally broke into wildughter.


    Mr. Shi shook his head with a smile, looking astonished. This mix-up was monumental. Guiyuan Buddha, you''re on your own now.


    Xuan Yuan, who had initially been dumbfounded, stood there like a wooden sculpture, and finally understood. He felt an urge tough aloud at the situation. Guiyuan Buddha, even you have your bad days.


    "Did I say something wrong?" Tian Ling''er asked Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan was overjoyed. Guiyuan Buddha indeed had the worst luck encountering Tian Ling''er. If he didn''t need to maintain his authority in front of his subordinates, he would have shouted in joy.


    "You truly are my lucky star," Zhong Shan said, holding Tian Ling''er''s hand.


    Ever since their first meeting, whenever Tian Ling''er was around, unexpected surprises followed. From their adventures on Sky Wolf Ind to now, despite the dangers, they encountered numerous lucky encounters. And now, such a powerful Buddha had been effortlessly dealt with by Tian Ling''er.


    "More than a lucky star, I heard that Guiyuan Buddha''s Silent Meditation is a formidable technique, yet Ling''er broke it. If Guiyuan Buddha knew, he would definitely be furious," Qinghong said, stillughing.


    "Indeed, the Silent Meditation is one of the powerful techniques of the Pure Land. I can''t believe it was broken today. Truly, it must be destiny," Xuan Yuan said, shaking his head in disbelief.


    "Commander, should we spread the word to annoy Guiyuan Buddha?" Lin Xiao asked with a grin.


    "Of course, we should. At the very least, we need to make him weep in front of a greenmp for three days and nights! But not now. Let''s wait until we''re within the territory of the Great Luo Dynasty," Zhong Shan said with augh.

 Chapter 459: The Decree of Heaven

    <h4>Chapter 459: The Decree of Heaven</h4>


    The army marched swiftly towards the Great Luo Dynasty. Along the way, different forces attempted to obstruct them for various reasons, but under Zhong Shan''s formidablemand, they were all repelled.


    After another month of travel:


    "Wuhen, you will lead the army from here. The road ahead is fraught with ambushes, so minimize losses and ensure the army reaches the Taigu Holy Capital. We will regroup there," Zhong Shan instructed solemnly.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded immediately.


    Shui Wuhen led the army away quickly.


    On the mountain peak, only Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er, Lin Xiao, Mr. Shi, Xuan Yuan, Zhihuo, and Qinghong remained.


    "Lin Xiao, you, Zhihuo, and Qinghong will stay hidden. The journey will be perilous, but it is a perfect opportunity for Wuhen to grow. Only intervene if absolutely necessary," Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Understood!" Lin Xiao epted the order immediately. Zhihuo and Qinghong alsoplied and quickly followed the army.


    Now, only Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er, Mr. Shi, and Xuan Yuan remained.


    "Friend Xuan Yuan, thank you for your assistance," Zhong Shan said.


    "No problem! There is still some time left in the half-year I promised to protect you," Xuan Yuan smiled slightly, referencing hismitment to protect Zhong Shan for six months.


    Half a monthter, over the East Sea:


    "Thank you, friend Xuan Yuan, for your care during this period. I will remember this," Zhong Shan expressed his gratitude.


    "Since you asked, I will escort you this far. What happens next is up to fate. I hope we won''t be enemies," Xuan Yuan said, taking a deep breath.


    "We shouldn''t," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Perhaps. Before I leave, let me give you one more thing as a final token, clearing any debts between us," Xuan Yuan said.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly but nodded. Although he had helped Xuan Yuan break through the Empire Extreme Realm''s constraints, Xuan Yuan''s assistance during this period had more than repaid that debt. From gifting him the Tian Decree to aiding against Nie Fancheng and Wu Jiutian, and intimidating Guiyuan Buddha, Xuan Yuan''s support had bnced their ounts. Zhong Shan wouldn''t insist on further entanglements.


    With curiosity, Zhong Shan took the small booklet Xuan Yuan handed over.


    <strong>Heavenly Thunder Transformation</strong>


    The moment Zhong Shan saw the booklet, he was stunned. Heavenly Thunder Transformation. When he left the Great Luo Dynasty, he had asked Gu Shentong about this. Gu Shentong had mentioned that <strong>Thunder Foundation Technique</strong> was only a foundational Nascent Soul stage technique, and that once Zhong Shan reached the Integration stage, he should practice a technique called <strong>Heavenly Thunder Transformation</strong>. However, this technique was only avable at the Genesis God Pce, one of the four great holynds.


    Could Xuan Yuan be from the Genesis God Pce?


    This technique, which Zhong Shan urgently needed, cleared any remaining debt between them.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan epted it gratefully.


    Xuan Yuan smiled slightly and disappeared in a sh.


    "Destiny indeed!" Mr. Shi remarked with a strange expression, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan looked at Mr. Shi with slight surprise.


    "Your humble servant pays respects to Your Majesty!" Mr. Shi suddenly bowed deeply to Zhong Shan.


    This sudden and inexplicable bow left Tian Ling''er full of questions. Only Zhong Shan understood the significance of this bow. It was Mr. Shi''s heartfelt submission, filled with sincerity.


    "Mr. Shi, you are too kind," Zhong Shan quickly helped him up, a look of excitement on his face.


    "Your Majesty, from now on, I will do my utmost to assist you in unifying the world!" Mr. Shi vowed immediately.


    "With Mr. Shi''s help, what is there to fear about the world not being pacified? However, I am a bit puzzled. Why was Mr. Shi so moved just now?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "Your Majesty is a person destined by heaven. Have you not noticed that whenever you need something, someone brings it to you?" Mr. Shi suddenly smiled.


    "Oh? Haha!" Zhong Shan nodded and smiled. Although he didn''t fully understand Mr. Shi''s meaning, did it matter? No, it didn''t. Having Mr. Shi''s loyalty was enough.


    Half a monthter, Zhong Shan arrived at Sky Wolf Ind!


    The first stop was the Kaiyang Sect!


    At the gravesite of Tian Xingzi and his wife.


    Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er knelt in front of the graves, with four people standing behind them: Xuan Xinzi, Gusuzi, Shou Shan, and Shou Zong. Mr. Shi had already gone to Xuanjing.


    The four of them watched silently as Tian Ling''er cried uncontrobly, clinging to Tian Xingzi''s tombstone in sorrow.


    "Father, why did you leave me?" Tian Ling''er cried, her tears soaking the tombstone. Zhong Shan knelt beside her, gently patting her back.


    Behind them, Shou Shan and Shou Zong shook their heads and sighed softly.


    "Ling''er, since you and Zhong Shan havee together, there are some things that should be given to you," Xuan Xinzi said, taking a deep breath.


    But Tian Ling''er continued to cry, her eyes swollen with tears. Her mother had died, her father had died, and now only Zhong Shan was left.


    "This was left to me by my senior brother years ago. He said that only if Zhong Shan brought you back should I give this to you. If Zhong Shan couldn''t bring you back, then this item would be buried in front of his grave," Xuan Xinzi exined.


    "My father left this for me?" Tian Ling''er asked through her tears.


    "Yes," Xuan Xinzi nodded.


    Then, he took out a jade box. The box was sealed with a restriction that only Tian Ling''er knew how to unlock. Otherwise, forcibly opening it would destroy the contents.


    "This was given to me by my senior brother years ago, with instructions that only you and Zhong Shan should see it together, with no one else around. Now I give it to you. We will leave now. If there is anything you need, contact us," Xuan Xinzi said.


    "Alright," Tian Ling''er nodded. Zhong Shan also reached out and took the box.


    After kneeling at Tian Xingzi''s grave for a while longer, they moved to the small courtyard where Zhong Shan had once lived.


    Setting up an istion array, they sat at the head of Zhong Shan''s bed. Tian Ling''er, following her memory, activated the jade box. The restriction disappeared.


    Gently opening it, they found two items inside: a memory crystal and something resembling a token, which looked like a piece of iron but wasn''t.


    Zhong Shan carefully took it out. The token was wide at the top and narrow at the bottom, an inch thick, and appeared quite ordinary, with two characters engraved on it: <strong>Heavenly Decree</strong>.


    Heavenly Decree? This token carried an impressive aura! Zhong Shan tried to probe it with his spiritual sense but found he couldn''t prate it.


    Meanwhile, Tian Ling''er picked up the memory crystal and infused it with her true essence.


    Instantly, an image of Tian Xingzi appeared, projected from the crystal.


    "Father!" Tian Ling''er cried out.


    But it was only a memory projection, not the real person.


    "Ling''er, have you been brought back by Zhong Shan? Is Zhong Shan also here? If you have been brought back by Zhong Shan, he has not failed my expectations," Tian Xingzi said with a smile.


    The two watched patiently, not interrupting, realizing that this projection could only be viewed once.


    "By the time you see this, I might have been dead for decades or centuries. Regardless, it''s good that you can see it. There are some things I have never mentioned, but Ling''er, you must know, and since Zhong Shan has brought you back, it''s alright to tell him too. Treat Ling''er well in the future, understand?" Tian Xingzi continued.


    "Master, rest assured, I will take good care of Ling''er," Zhong Shan replied sincerely, even though Tian Xingzi couldn''t hear him.


    "The Heavenly Decree inside the jade box was passed down from my ancestors. Our ancestors produced twelve immortals in total, but none of them had the qualifications to use it," Tian Xingzi said.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan''s mouth dropped open. Twelve immortals? Ling''er''s ancestors were that formidable?


    "Haha, I was also shocked when I heard it from my father. Surprised, aren''t you? Haha!"


    "To be honest, I found it hard to believe too, but we still passed it down. Tian, this world, who dares to bear the surname Tian? Only my Tian family. Our ancestors were not founders of any celestial dynasty but guardians of this world."


    "Guardians of this world, and that Heavenly Decree, is said to be the decree of guardianship over this world. However, as our family declined, the once-grand Tian family dwindled to just me, and now to only you. Over the years, the status of guardians also changed. Now, we are merely ants struggling to survive and seek longevity in this world. The Heavenly Decree contains secrets of our family that I couldn''t decipher. Now, I pass it on to you, hoping you can gain something from it. It is said that one canprehend its mysteries upon reaching the immortal realm. However, each of our twelve immortal ancestors, upon attaining immortality, left behind a message: ''I am not qualified.'' Thus, it has been passed down."


    "As for me, do not worry. I will find your mother in the underworld. Moreover, with twelve immortals and perhaps the strongest ancestors, someone must be in the underworld. I can find them and live without worries. Do not worry about me. Just remember, your surname is ''Tian''! The most noble surname in this world. Do not fear being inferior to others; you are the most noble."


    "Mm!" Tian Ling''er nodded tearfully.


    "Having said all this, I am content. Take care!" Tian Xingzi concluded, and the projection faded awaypletely.


    "Father!" Tian Ling''er cried.


    Zhong Shan held Tian Ling''er,forting her while feeling overwhelmed by the revtions. Her ancestors were extraordinarily powerful, with twelve immortals!


    They stayed at the Kaiyang Sect for over ten days until Tian Ling''er finally calmed down and regained her cheerful demeanor.


    One day, Zhong Shan personally made osmanthus cake again, and Tian Ling''er enjoyed it with great delight.


    "Ling''er, there is still something we haven''t done," Zhong Shan said.


    "What is it?" Tian Ling''er asked, puzzled, with a crumb of osmanthus cake on her lips.


    Zhong Shan sat next to Tian Ling''er and gently picked up the crumb from her mouth, putting it in his own. Tian Ling''er''s face turned red.


    "The wedding night," Zhong Shan whispered in her ear.


    Feeling the warmth of his breath and hearing his slightly husky voice, Tian Ling''er''s face blushed even more, turning crimson along with her ears. She wanted to shy away, but Zhong Shan held her tightly. Feeling his strong arms, Tian Ling''er felt her body softenpletely.


    Zhong Shan scooped Tian Ling''er up and carried her into his small courtyard. With a wave of his hand, he set up formations outside to prevent the enchanting sounds of their union from being heard.

 Chapter 460: Shocking News

    <h4>Chapter 460: Shocking News</h4>


    Three dayster, in Zhong Shan''s small courtyard.


    Tian Ling''er, newly a wife, had a radiant blush of happiness on her face. She busily washed Zhong Shan''s clothes, looking every bit the diligent little housewife, bustling about with great enthusiasm. In her haste, she tore arge hole in his pants while washing them. Instead of using magic to dry them instantly, she whimsically hung the wet pants outside to dry, mimicking what she had seen other women do during their travels among mortals. The key issue was that the tear was right in the crotch area. If anyone saw them, it would surely lead to some wild spections!


    After finishing her tasks, Tian Ling''er entered the house, resting her chin on her hands as she gazed lovingly at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan, unclothed, sat cross-legged, his mind focused inward. He was clearly in the midst of cultivation.


    Had he broken through?


    After consummating their marriage, Zhong Shan realized he had broken through to the next cultivation stage. This was incredibly fast! In his previous experiences, each level was challenging, especially thest stages. But now, what was happening? With Gu Qianyou, he had reached the Nascent Soul stage, and dual cultivation with Tian Ling''er had propelled him to the Integration stage, merging his Yin soul and Yang soul into one, forming his Primordial Spirit!


    Forming the Primordial Spirit marked the Integration stage!


    This was too exaggerated. Undeniably, it was due to Tian Ling''er''s exceptional body. The first dual cultivation had an unexpected effect, making Zhong Shan wonder if he was destined to be a rogue cultivator in this world. His terrible innate talent had been transformed through dual cultivation? In the past, the Hong Luan Heavenly Sutra also provided astonishingly fast results, and now this?


    Zhong Shan broke through, and the ck jade talisman in his body seemed to vibrate, bing more attuned to him, though he still couldn''t fully control it. Additionally, his Eight Extreme Heavenly Tails, resembling a Primordial Spirit, extended eight tendrils that danced gracefully, looking incredibly enchanting.


    As his eyes opened, Tian Ling''er''s eyes sparkled.


    "Ling''er, you truly are my lucky star!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    He lifted Tian Ling''er in his arms despite her protests, filling the room with another wave of passion.


    This time, the effect of their dual cultivation was much weaker. It made sense; if dual cultivation resulted in a breakthrough each time, why bother with regr cultivation? One could just stay home and reach immortality in no time.


    After a month at the Kaiyang Sect, Zhong Shan took Tian Ling''er to Xuanjing.


    "Sister!" Tian Ling''er called out shyly to Bao''er.


    "Ling''er, I''ve heard so much about you! From now on, you''ll live with me!" Bao''er said, holding Ling''er''s hand with a smile.


    Tian Ling''er looked at Zhong Shan and nodded shyly.


    Then, Bao''er led Ling''er into the harem, leaving Zhong Shan alone.


    Wearing his imperial robes, Zhong Shan, along with his shadow clone, walked into the study.


    Inside, the Grand Eunuch Wei Taizhong stood on one side, while Mr. Shi, Yinn, and Yi Yan stood before him.


    Seated at his desk, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said, "The time hase!"


    "Granduncle, can I go to Shenzhou now?" Yinn asked excitedly.


    Yi Yan smiled slightly beside her.


    "Yinn, Yi Yan, listen to mymand!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Yinn and Yi Yan responded immediately.


    "In three days, lead the Second and Third Corps to the southern regions of Shenzhou and initiate a campaign to conquer the cities," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" They replied in unison, their excitement palpable.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Yinn and Yi Yan immediately responded.


    With a slight smile, Zhong Shan continued, "You already know the locations. The Darong Chamber of Commerce has provided detailed maps. Your task is to upy those two chaotic regions. With your abilities, I don''t think it will be too difficult. As for your safety, each of you will have two Wolf Generals as personal bodyguards to protect you at all costs."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" They replied promptly.


    "Granduncle, once we enter Shenzhou, when should we start using the g of the Dazun Dynasty?" Yinn asked.


    "Use it as soon as you arrive. With the Sky Wolf Ind troops, it won''t remain a secret. However, the two regions I chose are rtively remote and not yet imed by any imperial dynasties, so there shouldn''t be too much attention from powerful forces," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Is Gu Shentong about to undergo his tribtion?" Yi Yan pondered for a moment before asking.


    "It shouldn''t be too far off. Once Gu Shentong bes an immortal, the Great Luo Dynasty will undoubtedly copse. Each of the four princes is incredibly strong, and there will be conflicts, igniting widespread warfare. Surrounding imperial dynasties will surely get involved in the chaos, resulting in a period of darkness. To establish a foothold in Shenzhou quickly, we must umte strength and establish a foundation," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Yes!" Everyone responded immediately.


    Over the next four months, Zhong Shan spent quality time with Bao''er and Ling''er, ensuring the two women got along very well before reluctantly leaving with Mr. Shi.


    Five monthster.


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Shi returned to the Taigu Holy Capital of the Great Luo Dynasty.


    The Zhong family army was still on the way, so Zhong Shan wasn''t in a rush. He first visited the Princess Mansion, only to find that Princess Qianyou had not returned yet. With a sigh, Zhong Shan went to the Ministry of Rites to report his arrival, as he still held the position of Assistant Minister of Rites.


    Upon reaching the Ministry of Rites.


    "Lord Zhong, it''s so good that you''re back! I''ve been waiting for you for a month," an official greeted him with a smile.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked slightly puzzled.


    "His Majesty issued a decree a month ago, instructing that you see him immediately upon your return!" the official said.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan thanked him with a bow, though he was confused.


    To see the Emperor immediately? A decree issued a month ago? Why the urgency? Typically, he would report during the morning court session after returning from his mission to the Great Li Dynasty.


    Wasting no time, Zhong Shan headed straight to the pce.


    "Minister Zhong requests an audience with His Majesty!" Zhong Shan announced at the pce gate.


    "Lord Zhong, His Majesty is already waiting for you at the Taigu Sacred Hall. You may proceed," an old eunuch said with a smile.


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan entered the pce and headed directly for Taigu Mountain.


    At the base of Taigu Mountain, Zhong Shan was momentarily stunned to see that everyone around had been dismissed.


    Without lingering, he quickly ascended the mountain. Observing that everyone had been dismissed from outside the Taigu Sacred Hall as well, he was slightly taken aback but continued forward, stepping into the grand hall.


    "Boom!"


    The doors of the hall closed suddenly. Zhong Shan knew that something significant was happening.


    Inside the grand hall, there was only one person: Gu Shentong.


    Gu Shentong appeared the same as always, but there was a look of satisfaction in his eyes.


    "Minister Zhong Shan greets His Majesty and wishes His Majesty eternal celestial fortune and longevity equal to the heavens!" Zhong Shan bowed respectfully.


    "Good. I''ve heard about your activities in the Great Li Dynasty. You haven''t disappointed me," Gu Shentong said with a faint smile.


    Activities? Indeed, Zhong Shan had caused quite a stir in the Sacred Capital of Lihuo. He had abducted a princess, orchestrated a grand spectacle with a million phoenixes, and made a heartfelt confession that almost turned the Sacred Capital upside down. Anyone else would have been executed by Nie Fancheng multiple times over, but Zhong Shan hade back unscathed, leaving behind a legend that shook the entire world.


    "Uh, thank you for thepliment, Your Majesty!" Zhong Shan responded somewhat awkwardly.


    "From today, I promote you to the rank of Second ss Duke of the East," Gu Shentong announced.


    Zhong Shan had previously held the rank of Third ss Duke of the East, the lowest tier of dukes. This promotion elevated him one level higher. As Gu Shentong finished speaking, Zhong Shan felt a surge of fortune flow into his body. The additional fortune from the Great Luo Dynasty increased his cultivation speed to nine times the normal rate, andbined with the fortune of the Dazun Dynasty, his cultivation speed was now fourteen times the normal rate.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Zhong Shan immediately bowed in gratitude.


    "Your Majesty, here is the Millennium Fruit from the Great Li Dynasty. I have brought it back," Zhong Shan said, presenting the fruit.


    "Keep it for yourself. Did you deliver the items?" Gu Shentong asked.


    "Yes, both the bamboo flute and the jade slip have been handed over to Nie Fancheng," Zhong Shan replied, putting away the Millennium Fruit.


    "What was his reaction?" Gu Shentong inquired.


    Zhong Shan then recounted the events in detail to Gu Shentong.


    "Good!" Gu Shentong''s expression turned serious. He extended his right index finger and pointed forward.


    "Buzz~~~"


    A grand map appeared in the hall.


    The Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains?


    Zhong Shan recognized it immediately; it was the area he had passed through a few years ago, home to the Pure Land.


    "Do you know this ce?" Gu Shentong asked.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    "Two years from now, on the fifth day of the eighth month, the armies of three dynasties will surround and annihte the Pure Land. Leave no survivors! Obliterate itpletely!" Gu Shentong said coldly.


    Annihte the Pure Land? Zhong Shan was stunned. He knew how vast and powerful the Pure Land was, with three prominent Buddhas, twenty Bodhisattvas, and five hundred Arhats. This was a colossal force, and there might be hidden powers within as well. Zhong Shan didn''t know for sure, but Gu Shentong''s grand n to destroy the Pure Land was audacious and ambitious. This battle would undoubtedly cause upheaval throughout thend. Such a massive movement would trigger widespread chaos, involving the strongest forces of Shenzhou: the four great holynds and the three major dynasties. The annihtion of one holynd by three dynasties would mobilize half of Shenzhou''s powerful forces. The other holynds would not remain idle; they would certainly take action. This was too shocking! It would lead to countless battles and the fall of many powerful figures.


    "May I ask, Your Majesty, will the Taishui Dynasty participate in the battle?" Zhong Shan asked. After all, three dynasties were involved, and the Great Luo and Great Li Dynasties were confirmed. Could the third be the Taishui Dynasty?


    "The three dynasties attacking the Pure Land are the Great Luo Dynasty, the Great Li Dynasty, and the Great Qin Dynasty," Gu Shentong said calmly.


    The Great Qin Dynasty? Had Ying already allied with Gu Shentong to destroy the Pure Land together?


    "You need not attend morning court sessions anymore. Start mobilizing your troops," Gu Shentong ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan responded immediately, still in shock.


    "You will be in charge of the eastern position, here!" Gu Shentong pointed to the eastern part of the Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains, near the East Sea.


    "Yes, I will ensure no one escapes from the Pure Land. y them all!" Zhong Shan epted the order resolutely.


    "Good," Gu Shentong nodded in approval.

 Chapter 461: Achieving Mid-Level Cultivation

    <h4>Chapter 461: Achieving Mid-Level Cultivation</h4>


    Upon returning to the Eastern Manor, the first thing Zhong Shan did was to refine the Millennium Fruit.


    Nothing was more important than enhancing one''s own strength. The Millennium Tree, a heavenly spiritual root, blooms once every thousand years, bears fruit once every thousand years, and matures once every thousand years. Each time, it only produces five Millennium Fruits, each containing miraculous transformative powers.


    After consuming the Millennium Fruit, a surge of energy filled Zhong Shan''s entire body. He meditated for a whole month.


    Finally, after a month, he reached the first level of the Integration stage.


    In the cultivation hall, Zhong Shan sat with his eyes closed, while his primordial spirit stepped out, wandered around the Eastern Manor, and then returned to his body.


    The primordial spirit was still weak and couldn''t leave the body for long. Zhong Shan was merely testing its effects. Unless faced with a life-and-death situation, he would never abandon his physical body.


    At the same time, Zhong Shan began studying the <strong>Heavenly Thunder Transformation</strong> from the Sky Wolf Ind.


    Reading through the introduction, Zhong Shan realized it was an exceptionally powerful manual.


    As he walked out of the hall, releasing his aura, a small thundercloud about an acre in size suddenly appeared in the sky. With a mere thought, the thundercloud acted like a lightning rod, absorbing thunder elements from the surroundings and then unleashing them in a devastating barrage against enemies.


    An acre was small, but it didn''t consume Zhong Shan''s true essence. Due to his unique physique, he could activate it with minimal effort. This could cause significant disruption. Additionally, with each cultivation level increase, the cloud''s size expanded tenfold.


    At the peak of the Integration stage, the thundercloud would cover the sky, obliterating entire armies with a single thought.


    Imagining such a scene, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but feel a sense of awe. It was incredibly powerful!


    That day, Zhong Shan visited a guesthouse in the Taigu Holy Capital.


    "Father!" Zhong Zheng greeted respectfully.


    "How have things been recently?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "The Darong Chamber of Commerce now has assets worth thirty billion top-grade spirit stones. However, I have reinvested all of it. Our industries are rapidly expanding in all directions, even extending towards the Taishui Dynasty. But it will take some time to establish a firm foothold there," Zhong Zheng reported.


    "You did the right thing. Money will only rot if kept in hand. Investing it generates more wealth. Additionally, gather information on talented individuals across the world. Recruit them for the Dazun Dynasty," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Zhong Zheng responded promptly.


    "Good. Now, I have two tasks for you," Zhong Shan continued.


    "Father, please tell me!"


    "First, send someone to the East Sea and follow the method I told youst time to find ''Hao Meili.'' Give her this note and ask her toe see me," Zhong Shan said, handing over a small note with only four characters on it: "Immortal Stele."


    "Understood."


    "Second, you personally go to Daming Temple and meet Tian''er. Convince him to persuade the abbot toe and assist me," Zhong Shan said.


    "Father, is something big about to happen?" Zhong Zheng asked, sensing the gravity of the situation.


    "Indeed, something major is about to unfold," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Oh?" Zhong Zheng looked slightly puzzled.


    "We are going to annihte the Pure Land," Zhong Shan dered.


    Hearing this, Zhong Zheng was momentarily stunned. He knew Zhong Shan never spoke lightly, but the idea of annihting the Pure Land was shocking. The Pure Land was a colossal entity; to annihte it?


    "Rest assured, Father, I will personally meet with my brother. Moreover, with the opportunity to destroy the Pure Land, the monks of Daming Temple will surely be eager to join. It promises immense merit," Zhong Zheng said with a smile.


    "Mm!" Zhong Shan nodded with a smile.


    The Longevity Realm


    In a small hut, Nian Youyou sat at a stone table, looking somewhat troubled at the little furball in front of her��the ancestral divine beast, Xiao Qing.


    The furbally on its back, holding its belly and swaying back and forth, clearly content. It had grown very fond of Nian Youyou and enjoyed staying by her side.


    "Zhi zhi zhi zhi," the little furball hummed contentedly, causing Nian Youyou to smile unconsciously.


    Just as Nian Youyou was enjoying a rare moment of happiness, her expression changed abruptly. The smile vanished, reced by a look of bitterness.


    A woman had suddenly appeared beside her��Nian Youyou''s master, someone she both respected and feared.


    "Master," Nian Youyou greeted her.


    "How have you been feelingtely?" the woman asked, her voice naturally alluring and maic.


    "Much better," Nian Youyou replied, with a touch of sorrow and helplessness.


    "That''s good. Two years from now, the three major dynasties will attack the Pure Land. Zhong Shan will surely be involved. Use this opportunity to remove this heart''s constraint," the woman said.


    Biting her lip and holding back her tears, Nian Youyou nodded.


    "Sigh," the woman sighed softly before disappearing in front of Nian Youyou.


    As soon as she vanished, Nian Youyou couldn''t hold back her tears any longer. Despite her wisdom, she couldn''t focus on why her master knew such a secret. Her heart was filled with heavy sorrow.


    Her only sce was Xiao Qing. But seeing Xiao Qing reminded her of those years of married life. Xu Xian? Zhong Shan?


    Unable to bear the pain in her heart, she picked up the little furball and held it tightly, ignoring its struggles. Her mood was utterly miserable.


    Great Luo Dynasty, Five Months Later


    After five months, Shui Wuhen finally arrived at the Taigu Holy Capital with the army.


    "Commander, I am ashamed to report that we lost ten thousand soldiers on the way here," Shui Wuhen confessed to Zhong Shan.


    "Victory and defeat aremon in warfare. Along the way, you were unstoppable, showcasing the might of the Zhong family army. I am very pleased with these results," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Shui Wuhen was slightly surprised but felt a surge of excitement at themander''s praise.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded enthusiastically.


    "Only through rigorous trials can steel be forged. Isn''t the Zhong family army different now?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "Yes, although we lost ten thousand soldiers, the current Zhong family army is more than twice as powerful as before," Shui Wuhen replied promptly.


    "Good. Go and console the troops. From now on, you will lead these soldiers," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded immediately.


    "Commander, now that the Zhong family army is back, should we spread the story of themander''s wife breaking Guiyuan Buddha''s silent meditation?" Lin Xiao asked with a smile.


    "Of course, we should!" Zhong Shanughed.


    With Zhong Shan''s approval, everyone burst intoughter.


    Within two days, a sensational story spread throughout the Taigu Holy Capital.


    The Lady of the Duke of the East, defeating Guiyuan Buddha and breaking his silent meditation, became a three-part tale, sung and told far and wide, elevating her prestige and spreading the tale of their prowess throughout thend.


    In a Tavern


    In a bustling tavern, a man was animatedly recounting the story from that fateful day.


    "Oh my, I can''t stopughing! It''s killing me, hahaha!"


    "My stomach hurts fromughing. Oh, that tragic Guiyuan Buddha, wasn''t he supposed to be the top figure in the Pure Land? Hahaha."


    "Heaven and earth, I am supreme? Turns out he was inviting them for a meal, hahaha, and porridge too?"


    This joke was explosively funny yet oddly not funny to some. Some believed it was fabricated to tarnish Guiyuan Buddha''s reputation. However, it wasn''t long before it was confirmed that Guiyuan Buddha had indeed visited an imperial dynasty recently and had actually spoken.


    Could it be true that this was how his silent meditation was broken? Poor Guiyuan Buddha, what bad luck!


    During the Great Luo Dynasty''s court session, this earth-shattering joke made its way to the court. All the civil and military officials'' faces twitched, wanting tough but having to hold it in.


    This Duke of the East, Zhong Shan, was too much! The court had barely digested the outrageous events in the Great Li Dynasty when a new joke arrived. Guiyuan Buddha inviting someone to a meal? And breaking his silent meditation in the process?


    Hearing this, Gu Shentong was also quite surprised. Although the Zhong family army was Zhong Shan''s private force, it wasn''t difficult for Gu Shentong to ce one or two of his own people there. The incident was quickly verified.


    Gu Shentong silently mourned for Guiyuan Buddha, this tragic first Buddha!


    "Duke of the East Zhong Shan, by spreading the might of our Great Luo Dynasty, is hereby promoted to First ss Duke of the East!" Gu Shentong dered.


    At Gu Shentong''s words, everyone was astounded. First ss Duke of the East? That meant a position in the middle ranks of the celestial order, with a tenfold increase in cultivation speed?


    This Duke of the East, Zhong Shan, was rising in rank too quickly. In just a few decades, he had reached the status of a top-tier duke?


    Before the eunuch could deliver the message, Zhong Shan in the Eastern Manor had already felt the influx of fortune. Vast fortune poured into him, granting him a middle rank.


    With the fortune of the Dazun Dynasty added, his cultivation speed was now fifteen times the normal rate. Even with poor innate talent, this could make up for a lot.


    However, Zhong Shan did not feel much joy but instead frowned deeply.


    "Your Majesty, what''s wrong?" Mr. Shi asked, slightly puzzled.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan said, "The end of the Great Luo Dynasty is approaching faster than expected!"


    Logically, this merit shouldn''t have warranted an increase in his rank, but Gu Shentong had promoted him anyway. This indicated that the time for Zhong Shan to n for the Shenzhound was running out.


    At the Eastern Pce


    "Commander, outside are Hao Meili and the Western Poison Emperor requesting an audience," Liu Wushuang reported as she entered the Eastern Hall.


    "Hao Meili? The Western Poison Emperor? Invite them in!" Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Liu Wushuang nodded and left.


    Soon, Hao Meili and the Western Poison Emperor were led into the Eastern Hall.


    "Zhong Shan, what do you want from me? Did you find it?" Hao Meili''s arrogant voice rang out even before entering the hall.


    "Wee, Hao Meili, and the Western Poison Emperor. Please, have a seat," Zhong Shan said, remaining calm.


    "You called me here for a reason. Did you find the Immortal Stele?" Hao Meili asked, her tone demanding and impatient.


    Zhong Shan nodded. "I did find the Immortal Stele, but there is more at stake here. We need to discuss the uing battle against the Pure Land."


    The mention of the Pure Land piqued Hao Meili''s interest, and her demeanor softened slightly. "Alright, let''s hear what you have to say," she said, taking a seat.


    The Western Poison Emperor remained silent but observant, taking in the details of the room and the interactions.


    Zhong Shan proceeded toy out his ns and the imminent actions against the Pure Land, ensuring that both Hao Meili and the Western Poison Emperor understood the gravity and the potential gains of the situation.

 Chapter 462: Creating Karma

    <h4>Chapter 462: Creating Karma</h4>


    "Zhong Shan, why did you call me here? Did you find the thing?" Hao Meili''s arrogant voice rang out even before entering the hall.


    Zhong Shan didn''t mind and instead stood up to wee her. Soon, Hao Meili, with a small golden dragon on her shoulder, and the mboyant Western Poison Emperor walked in.


    The moment they entered the hall, the Western Poison Emperor raised an eyebrow.


    "Young fellow, your cultivation speed is truly astonishing!" the Western Poison Emperor remarked in surprise.


    Thest time they met, Zhong Shan was only at the Golden Core stage. It hadn''t been long since then, and now the Western Poison Emperor couldn''t even discern his level clearly, implying he had reached the Integration stage? The Western Poison Emperor had previously examined Zhong Shan''s bone structure and found it to be the worst he''d ever seen. How could this be? Integration stage? Unbelievable. Even the best bones couldn''t ount for this rapid advancement. Had he eaten some celestial elixir?


    "Thanks to senior''s kind words, I''ve had some fortuitous encounters," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Pfft! From the Golden Core stage to the Integration stage in such a short time, and you call that a minor fortuitous encounter? That''s defying the heavens! With your bone structure, how many treasures did you get?" The Western Poison Emperor''s eyes bulged.


    Zhong Shan could only shake his head and smile bitterly. How could he exin this?


    "Alright, Master, I''m here for a reason!" Hao Meili interjected impatiently.


    The Western Poison Emperor had to swallow his indignation. This was a pitiful example of a master with no authority.


    "Zhong Shan, why did you send me this note?" Hao Meili asked.


    "This way, please!" Zhong Shan led them further into the hall. Amid their curiosity, he flipped his hand.


    "Boom!"


    Outside the hall, eleven giant steles stood tall.


    "Immortal Steles?" Hao Meili eximed excitedly.


    She rushed out of the hall to examine them closely.


    "They are real Immortal Steles. Zhong Shan, you''re amazing! How did you manage this? My master couldn''t get a single one after decades of effort, and you brought eleven at once. Incredible!" Hao Meili''s excitement made her blurt out everything.


    Hearing this, the Western Poison Emperor''s face darkened, rendered speechless. What could he do? The remaining forty-four Immortal Steles were in the hands of two dynasties and two holynds. No matter how famous he was, he wouldn''t dare sh with Buddhas or emperors.


    The Western Poison Emperor was also skeptical. Could these be fakes? How did Zhong Shan get them?


    "Meili, verify if they are real," the Western Poison Emperor suggested.


    "Of course, they''re real. Not a single one is fake! Haha, another eleven, just thirty-three to go," Hao Meili said, promptly collecting the steles.


    In high spirits, Hao Meili turned to Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, tell me what you want. I''ll get it for you," Hao Meili said generously.


    "Uh, this was something I promised you. I''m just delivering it. These are the eleven Immortal Steles from the Great Li Dynasty," Zhong Shan said.


    "Great, great!" Hao Meili was extremely pleased.


    Suddenly, Hao Meili''s eyes shifted, and she pulled the Western Poison Emperor aside for a quiet discussion.


    "Master, give me the ten-thousand-year dragon pearl the Dragon King gave mest time," Hao Meili said.


    "What for?" The Western Poison Emperor''s eyes widened, clearly reluctant.


    "Master, you saw it. Zhong Shan is better at finding Immortal Steles than you are. You can''t use the dragon pearl right now, so why not give it to Zhong Shan?" Hao Meili said.


    As Hao Meili finished speaking, the Western Poison Emperor shuddered, his eyes bulging even more.


    "That is a ten-thousand-year dragon pearl! It''s the remnant left behind by a powerful dragon who failed to ascend to immortality," the Western Poison Emperor said with great reluctance.


    "Come on, the Dragon Pce has countless treasures. Next time, I''ll find you something even better," Hao Meili insisted.


    "But still!" The Western Poison Emperor was clearly unwilling.


    "Master, think about it. It''s been less than ten years, and Zhong Shan has already found eleven Immortal Steles. You''ve been searching for decades and haven''t found even one," Hao Meili argued.


    "Didn''t I find one before?"


    "That was given to you by Zhong Shan! Honestly," Hao Meili rolled her eyes.


    The Western Poison Emperor sighed in resignation. Having such a disciple was truly a tragedy.


    "If you give him the dragon pearl now, I think he will be even more motivated to help me find more Immortal Steles," Hao Meili said excitedly.


    "Can''t we give him something else?" the Western Poison Emperor tried to negotiate.


    "No way. He''s an emperor and a duke. Didn''t you say he can get ordinary things whenever he wants?" Hao Meili red at him.


    At that moment, the Western Poison Emperor wished he could p himself. Why had he said that? Now, he was paying for his own words.


    "Alright," the Western Poison Emperor finally relented, taking out a fist-sized, multicolored dragon pearl with great reluctance.


    Hao Meili, without hesitation, grabbed the dragon pearl and walked over to Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, I, Hao Meili, distinguish between kindness and enmity clearly. This ten-thousand-year dragon pearl is a gift to you as thanks for finding these eleven Immortal Steles," Hao Meili said generously.


    The Western Poison Emperor stood by with a look of deep sorrow. A ten-thousand-year dragon pearl was a precious treasure. Giving it to Zhong Shan felt like a waste. Even he didn''t dare to absorb its power now, yet it was being given to Zhong Shan, who might not be able to use it for a long time.


    "This is too much," Zhong Shan said, eyeing the Western Poison Emperor''s expression. Although he very much wanted the pearl, he made a show of reluctance.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s hesitation, the Western Poison Emperor''s eyes lit up. Yes, you don''t want it? Give it to me. I''ll take it.


    "Take it. I always keep my word. If anyone dares to take it from you, I''ll curse them to have rotten hands and feet!" Hao Meili said decisively.


    Hearing Hao Meili''s words, the Western Poison Emperor shuddered involuntarily. His hands and feet instinctively drew back. He had just been thinking of ways to get the dragon pearl back, but hearing Hao Meili''s curse, he was terrified. Who would dare to steal it now? A curse from Hao Meili was no joke. Her words were more binding than a royal decree. The Western Poison Emperor felt a wave of despair. Why had he epted such a disciple? What a misfortune!


    "In that case, I won''t refuse," Zhong Shan said with a smile, taking the pearl.


    A ten-thousand-year dragon pearl, the essence of a celestial dragon condensed within, was an incredible treasure.


    The Western Poison Emperor could do nothing but watch with deep resentment.


    "Hmm, find me more Immortal Steles in the future. There are still thirty-three left. I have high hopes for you!" Hao Meili encouraged him in her crude manner.


    Zhong Shan smiled quietly and shook his head.


    "What?" Hao Meili asked, raising an eyebrow.


    "You still want more Immortal Steles?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Of course!" Hao Meili nodded eagerly.


    "How many dragons can you gather?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Gather dragons?" Hao Meili was puzzled.


    "Yes, since you''ve given me a ten-thousand-year dragon pearl, I naturally want to help you find more Immortal Steles. But I can''t do it alone. I''ll need some help from the dragon n," Zhong Shan exined with a smile.


    "Find? How do we find them?" Hao Meili asked, puzzled.


    "Uh, to be precise, we''re going to steal them. We''re going to pull off a major heist and rob the Immortal Steles!" Zhong Shan dered.


    Hao Meili, fearless and bold, immediately brightened at Zhong Shan''s suggestion. It sounded like a great idea to her. The Western Poison Emperor, however, looked shocked.


    "Rob? The remaining Immortal Steles are in three ces: the Taishui Dynasty, the Longevity Realm, and the Pure Land. Rob? Each of those ces is a formidable power! How can we rob them?" the Western Poison Emperor eximed.


    "Where do we start?" Hao Meili asked eagerly.


    "The Pure Land!" Zhong Shan replied.


    "Cough, cough, cough..." The Western Poison Emperor nearly choked.


    You must be out of your mind. You actually want to rob the Pure Land?


    "Kid, do you have a death wish? Rob? Rob the Pure Land? A hundred of you wouldn''t be enough to die there. We''re not going with you," the Western Poison Emperor immediately objected.


    If Zhong Shan wanted to die, fine, but he shouldn''t drag them along. The Pure Land? Even the entire dragon n wouldn''te out unscathed from there. Rob? More like getting robbed.


    "Oh, Master, stop shouting. What''s the big deal about robbing the Immortal Steles? Really, Zhong Shan, continue," Hao Meili said impatiently.


    The Western Poison Emperor felt utterly humiliated, feeling a deep sense of regret. Why did he end up with such a disciple? It felt like a curse.


    Zhong Shan observed their expressions and knew what they were thinking. He smiled slightly and said, "Senior Western Poison Emperor, don''t worry. When I say we''re robbing the Immortal Steles, it''s not about rushing in foolishly. We need a strategy."


    "Exactly!" Hao Meili agreed. Obtaining the Immortal Steles was the priority; any other difficulty was secondary.


    Of course, only Hao Meili would think this way because she was fearless. Anyone who dared to oppose her would be cursed.


    "What strategy?" the Western Poison Emperor asked quickly. He needed to understand the n, seeing that Hao Meili was clearly determined.


    "Obviously, we can''t do it alone. We need to orchestrate a multi-faceted n, drawing numerous powerful individuals to attack the Pure Land. Only then can we steal the Immortal Steles," Zhong Shan exined.


    "And who would join you in such madness, robbing a holynd? If you find someone, I will..." the Western Poison Emperor began but stopped himself. Before meeting Hao Meili, he would have made any vow, but after spending time with her, he realized making vows was a bad idea.


    "Haha, rest assured, I will find the people and handle the arrangements. You just need to gather arge number of dragons and follow me in an assault on the Pure Land from the northern side of the East Sea," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright, it''s a deal!" Hao Meili said excitedly.


    Zhong Shan nodded in satisfaction. By aligning Hao Meili with his ns, he no longer had to worry. Anyone who dared to trouble him would face Hao Meili''s curses. With her by his side, they would be invincible and unparalleled in their cursing prowess.


    Meanwhile, the Western Poison Emperor could only feel a deep sense of resignation. Zhong Shan was indeed mad, nning to rob a holynd. Holynds were not to be trifled with. If they were that easy to rob, they would have been destroyed countless times already. Since Hao Meili was determined to go, he, as her master, had no choice but to apany her. One misstep and they could all perish. Hemented his fate. Why had he taken such a disciple? What a misfortune!

 Chapter 463: Proclamation of War

    <h4>Chapter 463: Promation of War</h4>


    After sending off Hao Meili and the Western Poison Emperor, Zhong Shan carefully examined the ten-thousand-year dragon pearl in his hand.


    Dragon pearls are essence beads cultivated within dragons, condensing the essence of heaven and earth over time. The longer the time, the more essence the dragon pearl contains. A ten-thousand-year dragon pearl is one of the most precious treasures in the world.


    Dragon pearls can be used to craft magical treasures or be absorbed directly. Zhong Shan remembered how, during a meal with Yi Yan in the Da Yu Dynasty, he had taken a dragon pearl to go. However, this dragon pearl was different. Its essence was so potent that directly absorbing it could be lethal. Even the Western Poison Emperor, a pinnacle-level Emperor Extreme Realm expert, dared not absorb it.


    But Zhong Shan couldn''t afford to wait. He announced his seclusion, sealed the doors tightly, and began refining the pearl.


    The ten-thousand-year dragon pearl, brimming with essence, was enveloped by his primordial spirit and fed to the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tails.


    "Ah-woo~~"


    The pearl was swallowed in one gulp by the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tails.


    A terrifying surge of energy erupted from the Eastern Hall.


    Outside the Eastern Hall, the generals watched with admiration.


    "Themander''s cultivation is going to increase again," Lin Xiao said with great admiration.


    "Indeed," Mr. Shi smiled wisely, his eyes filled with anticipation.


    "Roooar~~"


    A mournful dragon cry echoed from within the Eastern Hall.


    "Roar~~"


    Zhong Shan let out a powerful roar.


    "Boom~~"


    The Eastern Hall exploded from within, lightning bolts spewing forth.


    As the dust settled, Zhong Shan dusted himself off and emerged. He had reached the second level of the Integration stage! The ten-thousand-year dragon pearl had indeed lived up to its reputation.


    Zhong Shan knew that breakthroughs would be increasingly difficult, but this ten-thousand-year dragon pearl, even after the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tails absorbed most of it, still provided enough residual energy for him to break through.


    Zhong Shan considered finding more ten-thousand-year dragon pearls in the future.


    "Rebuild the Eastern Hall!" Zhong Shan ordered the onlookers.


    "Yes, yes!" Liu Wushuang, with a strange look, quickly nodded.


    The Pure Land


    In the Pure Land, the Past Amitabha Buddha, the Present Guiyuan Buddha, and the Future Jinchang Buddha sat together, listening to the Perfume Bodhisattva report. She nced at Guiyuan Buddha asionally as she spoke.


    Both Amitabha Buddha and Jinchang Buddha looked at Guiyuan Buddha with peculiar expressions.


    Guiyuan Buddha, the most powerful and serene figure in the Pure Land, was now struggling to maintain hisposure. His face alternated between green and white, an ever-changing spectacle.


    "Buddha, the message received is exactly as stated. At the time, Tian Ling''er thought you were inviting Zhong Shan to a meal," the Perfume Bodhisattva reported with bewilderment.


    Her words caused Guiyuan Buddha''s face to flush red with embarrassment.


    "Infinite Life Buddha!" Both Jinchang Buddha and Amitabha Buddha intoned a Buddha''s name, then looked at Guiyuan Buddha with sympathy.


    "Guiyuan, don''t take it too hard. Breaking your Silent Meditation is not the end of the world. This Zhong Shan is quite crafty. At the Great Extinction Event, I didn''t n on letting him leave, but he managed to escape unscathed," Jinchang Buddha consoled.


    "Yes, Jinchang is right. It''s not just Zhong Shan who''s tricky; the people around him are also extraordinary. This time it was his wife. Last time, when I sent Perfume to capture him, it was the same. The people around him even had the ability to connect with the Yellow Springs Road. Perfume should have deep insights into that," Amitabha Buddha added.


    Perfume Bodhisattva nodded, confirming the difficulties encountered due to Zhong Shan and hispanions.


    Guiyuan Buddha, still reeling from the humiliation and the surprising abilities of his adversaries, had to reconcile with the fact that Zhong Shan and his allies were far from ordinary. The Pure Land would need to be prepared for future confrontations with these formidable foes.


    st time I was trapped for more than ten days. This Zhong Shan is too cunning. If I see him again, I will surely capture and kill him to avenge the multiple humiliations I''ve suffered," Perfume Bodhisattva said with a hint of ruthlessness on her face.


    Guiyuan Buddha remained silent, only nodding slightly and waving his hand to dismiss everyone.


    The frustration within Guiyuan Buddha was something only he understood. The Silent Meditation, which he had practiced for nearly five thousand years, was on the verge ofpletion but was ultimately broken because of a misunderstanding involving an invitation to a meal. The frustration of five thousand years of effort being undone in such a manner was beyond what ordinary people couldprehend.


    Guiyuan Buddha stared at the bluemp before him, and, almost unconsciously, a single tear of bitterness rolled down his cheek.


    Two Years Later, Great Luo Dynasty


    One day, Gu Shentong suddenly issued a promation to the world.


    <strong>"Gu Shentong, Acting on Heaven''s Behalf, Deres War on the Pure Land"</strong>


    This promation detailed the deep-seated enmity between the Great Luo Dynasty and the Pure Land. The deration was filled with passionate words that stirred the hearts of people everywhere.


    Starting from the Taigu Holy Capital, the popce erupted with fervor.


    The Great Luo Dynasty dering war on the Pure Land? Such an announcement sent shockwaves throughout thend.


    The Great Luo Dynasty had just quelled all surrounding rebellious empires and was at the peak of its military strength. Now, suddenly, its military might was directed at the Pure Land?


    The Pure Land, one of the four great holynds, had, in the past millennium, seemingly surpassed the other three holynds, bing immensely powerful and prosperous.


    And now, the Great Luo Dynasty was challenging the Pure Land?


    From the promation, it was clear that the Great Luo Dynasty was determined. This was a fight to the death.


    Many were stunned.


    A celestial dynasty waging war on a holynd was unprecedented in history. Such an event hadn''t been seen in millennia, or even tens of millennia. When the dynasty had crushed nearby empires, it hadn''t been this shocking. But now, this promation left everyone in disbelief.


    Two different cultivation systems harboring such deep hatred?


    Gu Shentong, acting on heaven''s behalf to punish the Pure Land?


    The promation quickly spread across the world with rming speed.


    Almost simultaneously, another earth-shattering event urred in the Great Li Dynasty. A simr promation was issued.


    <strong>"Nie Fancheng, Acting on Heaven''s Behalf, Deres War on the Pure Land"</strong>


    This promation also caused a massive uproar in the Great Li Dynasty. The Great Li Dynasty was going to war with the Pure Land?


    The promation dered to the world, with the military might of the Great Li Dynasty directed at the Pure Land.


    Of course, the people of the Great Li Dynasty were unaware that the Great Luo Dynasty had issued a simr promation, which would soon reach all corners of thend.


    Two promations, filled with endless fighting spirit.


    But there weren''t just two promations��there were three.


    <strong>"Ying, Acting on Heaven''s Behalf, Deres War on the Pure Land"</strong>


    The third promation came very suddenly, issued simultaneously by five imperial dynasties in the central Shenzhou region. The coordination and decisiveness were striking.


    Ying? The people of these five dynasties were puzzled. Who was Ying, that the five imperial dynasties would all write such a promation?


    The Five Imperial Dynasties'' Emperors? Clearly not. And it couldn''t have been coordinated so perfectly otherwise.


    The people spected but dared not believe it. Could it be that all five imperial dynasties had submitted to someone named Ying? How was that possible?


    No matter the circumstances, the three promations officially represented the deration of war against the Pure Land by three of the most powerful figures. These promations spread rapidly across the Shenzhou continent, radiating in all directions.


    Monks and Arhats from the Pure Land who were traveling abroad quickly returned to report the earth-shattering news to their Buddhas.


    Within the Pure Land


    The three Buddhas convened once more, standing before a group of Arhats and Bodhisattvas.


    "Gu Shentong? Nie Fancheng? Ying?" Amitabha Buddha eximed in surprise.


    "The Great Luo Dynasty, the Great Li Dynasty, and the Great Qin Dynasty?" Guiyuan Buddha said gravely.


    "They''ve finally made their move," Jinchang Buddha said, frowning deeply.


    "Notify all Bodhisattvas and Arhats of the Pure Land who are abroad to return immediately. Inform all allied sects and dynasties to gather at the Pure Land quickly to defend against the foreign invaders!" Guiyuan Buddha ordered.


    "Yes!" the Bodhisattvas and Arhats responded immediately. Everyone knew the gravity of the situation.


    Two great dynasties, no, three dynasties including the one led by Ying, were joining forces to attack the Pure Land?


    Messages spread quickly in all directions, rallying all the forces and influences of the Pure Land to converge and prepare for the oing storm from the three dynasties.


    Great Luo Dynasty, Eastern Manor


    Zhong Shan, dressed in his battle armor, addressed his assembled generals.


    "Wuhen, muster the troops and prepare for departure at the second hour tomorrow!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded immediately.


    "Prepare the army. We march against the Pure Land!" Zhong Shan dered.


    "Roar~~~"


    The generals let out a unified roar before quickly leaving to organize the troops and ready them for battle.


    After most had left, Lin Xiao asked with a hint of curiosity, "Commander, why dere to the world now? Doesn''t this give the Pure Land time to prepare?"


    "There are two reasons. First, to reverse the will of heaven. We must have a righteous cause. The Pure Land holds great merit, while a dynasty holds fortune. War between the two usually ends up fruitless. Thus, we need a justified cause to reverse the will of heaven. After defeating the Pure Land, the heavens will grant us immense fortune. Second, the Emperor did this deliberately to force the Pure Land to recall all their people. The Emperor''s goal is not just to annihte the Pure Land but to exterminate every single person within it," Zhong Shan said, his eyes gleaming with determination.


    "Exterminate every single person?" The generals were stunned. Such deep-seated hatred?


    "Hatred fulfilled signals the arrival of the heavenly day," Zhong Shan exined.


    Hatred fulfilled signals the arrival of the heavenly day? Did this mean Gu Shentong aimed to vent his final anger and then face the heavenly might? The realization hit everyone, leaving them in a mix of understanding and shock.


    "Report! Commander, Mr. Shui Jing requests an audience outside the manor!" A messenger quickly entered the hall to inform.


    Shui Jing? Mr. Shui Jing?


    Zhong Shan''s eyes flickered with curiosity. "Invite him in," hemanded.


    A momentter, a refined-looking man in schr''s robes entered, his demeanor calm and wise.


    "Mr. Shui Jing, what brings you here?" Zhong Shan asked, greeting him with respect.


    "Commander Zhong, I bring urgent information and seek to offer my assistance in the uing campaign against the Pure Land," Mr. Shui Jing said, his voice steady.


    Zhong Shan nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. With the addition of Mr. Shui Jing''s insights, the strategy against the Pure Land would only be more formidable.

 Chapter 464: Zhou Jian

    <h4>Chapter 464: Zhou Jian</h4>


    "Mr. Shui Jing?" Zhong Shan frowned. What is he doing here at this time?


    "Invite him in quickly!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" The messenger quickly left.


    In the main hall, Zhong Shan looked at everyone and said, "You may all leave for now."


    "Yes!" everyone responded and left promptly.


    Soon, Mr. Shui Jing was brought in.


    Mr. Shui Jing, dressed in his usual schr''s robe and holding a feather fan, still appeared as elegant and unrestrained as ever. The only difference was the shadow of worry that clouded his brow. Clearly, he was troubled by something.


    "Mr. Shui Jing, it''s been a long time!" Zhong Shan greeted with a smile.


    "Greetings, Lord Dongfang!" Mr. Shui Jing immediately replied.


    "Mr. Shui Jing, no need for such formalities. Back when Qi Tianhou wreaked havoc in the Ancient Holy City and falsely used Princess Qianyou, if it weren''t for your timely advice, I wouldn''t have exposed Qi Tianhou''s true colors, nor would he have faced such a miserable downfall. I owe much to you, Mr. Shui Jing. Please, just call me Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "s, I had no choice but to disturb you this time. Please don''t me me!" Mr. Shui Jing shook his head and sighed.


    "Oh?"


    "It''s a long story!" Mr. Shui Jing sighed again.


    "Please, Mr. Shui Jing, let''s discuss this at length. This way, please."


    Zhong Shan led Mr. Shui Jing to a small pavilion outside the Eastern Hall. The two sat down, and a servant brought tea.


    "Mr. Shui Jing, just speak your mind. If there''s anything I can help with, I will do my utmost," Zhong Shan said. Indeed, both were smart men, no need to beat around the bush.


    "Thank you!" Mr. Shui Jing nodded.


    "I came here this time to seek advice from you on matters of the heart!" Mr. Shui Jing said surprisingly.


    Matters of the heart? Zhong Shan''s eyes widened instantly. No way!


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s expression, Mr. Shui Jing smiled bitterly.


    "Others wouldn''t understand, so I had to turn to you, Mr. Zhong Shan. I have always admired your way with women, being entangled with princesses of two dynasties," Mr. Shui Jing said.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan felt slightly embarrassed. Was that apliment or an insult?


    But seeing Mr. Shui Jing''s sincere eyes, Zhong Shan knew he was genuinely seeking help.


    "Do you remember the ninth consort of King Daxuan?" Mr. Shui Jing asked with a hint of bitterness.


    The ninth consort of King Daxuan, Princess Qianyou''s senior sister, was the woman who had always been on Mr. Shui Jing''s mind. It was said that before he even met her, Mr. Shui Jing was already searching for her. But when he found her, she had married King Daxuan. Since then, Mr. Shui Jing willingly served under King Daxuan, just to catch a glimpse of her asionally.


    "I remember," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "I suppose Princess Qianyou has told you about my story," Mr. Shui Jing smiled bitterly.


    "I''ve heard a bit, and I know that Mr. Shui Jing has deep feelings for the ninth consort. It''s a tragic tale," Zhong Shan shook his head and sighed.


    "Yes, fate ys tricks on us!" Mr. Shui Jing reminisced, a look of pain crossing his face.


    "Mr. Shui Jing, did youe to me because of her?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes."


    "Why are you so obsessed with her? I noticed she has no feelings for you."


    "Heh, it''s because she hasn''t remembered yet," Mr. Shui Jing smiled bitterly.


    "Hasn''t remembered? Do you mean her memories are sealed?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise. Could it be simr to Tian Ling''er''s situation?


    "Yes and no," Mr. Shui Jing shook his head.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was puzzled.


    "She and I have a deep entanglement from our past lives. I regained my past life''s memories due to a special circumstance, but she hasn''t," Mr. Shui Jing exined.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was stunned. Past life memories? That far back?


    "In our past lives, I was named Zhou Jian, the only son of a wealthy family, the Zhou family. She was Miss Liu of the Liu family, Liu Yanyan," Mr. Shui Jing said.


    "Hmm."


    "But our families were mortal enemies. When I was young, my family, the Zhou family, massacred her entire family, the Liu family. My father led our servants in a bloodbath that wiped out the Liu family. Only two people escaped, a young master of the Liu family and her, who was just two years old at the time, taken away by her brother."


    "The two surviving members of the Liu family bore a deep-seated grudge. The Liu family young master concealed his identity and raised her, umting power in secret. When she was eight, she disguised herself as a beggar to gain my pity and was taken into the Zhou household as my personal maid," Mr. Shui Jing continued.


    Listening to Mr. Shui Jing''s story, Zhong Shan was astonished. What a tragic entanglement!


    "The brother and sister came to seek revenge on your Zhou family?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Mr. Shui Jing nodded lightly.


    "But by the time she was sixteen, I had fallen deeply in love with her, and she with me. However, she knew that one of our families was destined to be annihted by the other, which made her very sad. I confessed my love to her several times, but she always refused. Though she was my maid, I never forced her. Until one night, after getting drunk, everything changed, and then I married her," Mr. Shui Jing recounted.


    "And then?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "After marrying her, I noticed that when she looked at my family, there was a hatred in her eyes that I didn''t understand. It wasn''t until her brother amassed enough power, and she provided arge amount of information about the Zhou household to him, that they attacked and killed my parents. Only then did I realize the depth of her hatred," Mr. Shui Jing said, his voice filled with pain.


    What a tragic entanglement! Zhong Shan sighed internally.


    "What happened then?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It seemed my father had long noticed her hatred and perhaps even her identity, but he never said a word. On the eve of the Zhou household''s downfall, he called me to his bedside and told me not to carry the grudges of the past, not to hate Liu Yanyan, and to live well. I didn''t understand then, but the next day, when our household was engulfed in blood, I finally did. That night, my father even spoke to her alone. I''m sure he begged her not to kill me."


    "The next day, everyone died. A vast Zhou household, everyone was dead, except for me. I had been sent to a shop in the neighboring vige. It wasn''t until a servant, mortally wounded, came to inform me of the tragedy that I knew everything."


    "At that moment, I grabbed a sword and rushed to the backyard. She was there, holding a sword as well."


    Zhou Jian''s eyes were bloodshot, his sword pointed at Liu Yanyan. Tears streamed down his face uncontrobly.


    "Yanyan, tell me this isn''t true. None of this is true," Zhou Jian pleaded, his eyes red and the tip of his sword trembling. He couldn''t believe that the woman he loved most, the woman he loved with all his heart, had killed his entire family.


    Liu Yanyan gave a sorrowful smile, "It''s all true! I am a descendant of the Liu family! My parents'' blood feud is irreconcble!"


    "No, this isn''t true!" Zhou Jian roared at the sky, tears pouring down his face.


    Why is this happening? Oh heavens, what did I do wrong? Why is this happening? The woman I love the most killed my entire family?


    Zhou Jianpletely forgot his father''s advice from the previous day: not to carry the grudges of the past, not to hate Liu Yanyan.


    Seeing Liu Yanyan standing there with her sword, he lost his mind and lunged at her with his sword. Liu Yanyan also thrust her sword forward. At that moment, Zhou Jian''s heart was a turmoil of emotions, filled with despair. He thought that if he could kill her, they could both end this tormenting love together.


    With a sound of piercing flesh, his sword went through her heart. But at thest moment, Liu Yanyan deliberately let go of her sword, wearing a sorrowful yet serene smile, willingly dying by his hand.


    Zhou Jian was suddenly numb, frozen in ce. It wasn''t until Liu Yanyan fell that he rushed forward to hold her, tears streaming down his face like a river.


    "Why did it have to be like this? Why?" Zhou Jian muttered in a daze.


    Liu Yanyan, though pierced through the heart, didn''t die immediately. She fell into Zhou Jian''s arms with a sorrowful smile.


    "Master..." Liu Yanyan smiled bitterly.


    "Yanyan, why? Why did it have to be like this?" Zhou Jian shouted.


    "I''m sorry, Master. I''m going first. You must live well. I told my brother, no matter what, he must let you go. He promised. The enmity between our families ends here," Liu Yanyan said weakly.


    "No, why did it have to be like this?" Zhou Jian still couldn''t ept the reality.


    Gently caressing Zhou Jian''s face, Liu Yanyan spoke with reluctance, "I have always been your maid, watching you practice calligraphy every day was the happiest time for me. I bore the family grudge and had to seek revenge. Entering the Zhou household was just for revenge, but I fell in love with you. It shouldn''t have happened, but I don''t regret it. Being able to be your woman while alive was enough for me. I''m sorry, Master. I''m sorry. I thought of this death long ago. I just wanted to die by your hand to ease your anger. As long as you live well, it doesn''t matter how I die."


    "No...no..." Zhou Jian cried, holding Liu Yanyan.


    "Master, I''m sorry I can no longer serve you. I am a bad woman, I''m sorry," Liu Yanyan said with difficulty.


    Zhou Jianughed painfully, "Hehehe..."


    The sky seemed to turn ck and white. His hatred for Liu Yanyan had long disappeared, reced only by infinite tenderness and love.


    "Master, in the next life, I will be your maid again, grinding ink for you every day, okay?" Liu Yanyan said with difficulty.


    "Okay, okay!" Zhou Jian''s tears had dried, reced by streaks of blood tears running down his cheeks.


    Liu Yanyan''s eyes closed weakly, not seeing the blood tears, but she spoke softly, "In the next life, you''ll write our names before me. You''ll say you need ''Sanyang Spring'' ink, and I''ll say we ran out and add more for you. That''s when I''ll remember you."


    With that, Liu Yanyan spoke no more.


    Mr. Shui Jing recalled the past, his heart filled with emotion, and two lines of tears flowed down his face. Though a lifetime had passed, washing away all causes and effects, and the hatred was gone, this love had broken through the shackles of reincarnation. It refused to be buried by the cycle of life and death. For eternity, it could not be forgotten.

 Chapter 465: Mobilization of Three Dynasties

    <h4>Chapter 465: Mobilization of Three Dynasties</h4>


    After a while, Mr. Shui Jing finally calmed down from his emotional turmoil.


    Zhong Shan deeply sighed, feeling the weight of a love that transcended lifetimes. Truly, it was profound!


    "Mr. Shui Jing, what do you want to do?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Shui Jing.


    "Yanyan is very happy now. I''ve always wondered if I should tell her the truth. I''m afraid of ruining her current life. I would rather endure some pain myself than cause her any harm. But this pain is bing increasingly unbearable. So, I wanted to ask for your advice," Mr. Shui Jing said hopefully.


    Zhong Shan was speechless for a moment. Did Shui Jing really think he was a love sage? However, Zhong Shan was indeed better at handling such matters than Mr. Shui Jing.


    "This isn''t difficult. Let me ask you, can you forget your past life and let go of this love?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No, and I don''t want to!" Mr. Shui Jing replied firmly.


    "Uh, don''t want to? Then find an opportunity to tell her clearly! Any borate means of pleasing her are not as effective as a heartfelt confession," Zhong Shan said bluntly.


    "But..." Mr. Shui Jing hesitated, clearly afraid of disturbing Liu Yanyan''s happy life.


    Looking at Mr. Shui Jing, Zhong Shan sighed softly.


    "You are too upright. A good man like you is hard to find in this world. How about this, let me ask you a few questions," Zhong Shan said.


    "First, you say Liu Yanyan is living happily now. How are you so sure? Just based on what you''ve seen? Remember, those involved in the situation may not see the full picture," Zhong Shan said.


    Upon hearing this, Mr. Shui Jing raised his eyebrows, about to refute, but then he fell silent.


    "Second, even if Liu Yanyan is living happily, why would King Daxuan marry her as a consort? Why did he marry her suddenly before you found her? Did you show your talents to King Daxuan before? Is it possible that he married Liu Yanyan to control you?" Zhong Shan continued, not sparing King Daxuan''s face at all.


    "That can''t be, it''s impossible!" Mr. Shui Jing frowned deeply. Although he didn''t believe it, his intelligence made him consider it deeply.


    "If this is true, then you wouldn''t be ruining her happiness but saving her from suffering. She has been trapped for decades, maybe even centuries. Do you really want to watch her continue being trapped in a deception?" Zhong Shan encouraged.


    "This..." Mr. Shui Jing clenched his fists, clearly wavering.


    "Third, you only know the Liu Yanyan from your past life. If she doesn''t recover her past life memories, she isn''t the same Liu Yanyan. Have you tried to awaken her past life memories as the Liu Yanyan of your past asked?" Zhong Shan said.


    Cold sweat began to form on Mr. Shui Jing''s forehead. Previously, he was stuck in a dilemma, unable to see clearly. Now, with Zhong Shan''s guidance, he suddenly understood much more.


    "I understand. Thank you, Mr. Zhong Shan!" Mr. Shui Jing stood up and bowed respectfully to Zhong Shan. This bow was sincere.


    "Hehe, I was just speaking casually. The next steps are up to you, Mr. Shui Jing," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Yes, I will definitely repay your guidance today. I''ve troubled you for too long," Mr. Shui Jing said immediately.


    "Mr. Shui Jing, you may go. After all, the Celestial Dynasty''s army will mobilize tomorrow. If you have any ns, you''d better prepare quickly," Zhong Shan said.


    "Thank you!"


    Watching Mr. Shui Jing''s departing figure, Zhong Shan pondered deeply for a while.


    The next day, the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty officially mobilized its troops.


    In the past two years, the Zhong Family Army had expanded again, reaching a strength of one million.


    Zhong Shan, leading the vanguard, took his army swiftly eastward, preparing to attack the Land of Ultimate Bliss from the north of the East Sea.


    While Zhong Shan''s vanguard moved eastward, preparing to attack the Land of Ultimate Bliss from the north of the East Sea, the main force of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty, led by Gu Shentong, took the shortest path, heading straight towards the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    Gu Shentong''s march was not fast, progressing gradually with the vast army. Seated on a grand Nine-Dragon Heavenly Chair, he moved northward, and with every step, the sky above grew darker and more oppressive. This was Gu Shentong''s domain, his power extending even to the sky itself, which followed him as he moved.


    Underneath the Nine-Dragon Heavenly Chair, the vast expanse was filled with an endless army, their momentum overwhelming and unstoppable.


    Apanying the army were the Four Great Princes, King Zhengyi, King Daxuan, King Taizong, and King Zhantian. Even Tian Lao, leaning on a cane, followed along. The endless ranks of the Tiger n guarded the nks, either carrying people or moving on their own, advancing with the army towards the Land of Ultimate Bliss. Their mission was to obliterate the Land of Ultimate Bliss in response to the emperor''s wrath.


    The momentum was truly unstoppable! Any who tried to obstruct them would be utterly annihted.


    As the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty mobilized its forces, so did the Great Li Celestial Dynasty. Under the soaring phoenixes, the vast army of the Great Li Celestial Dynasty advanced towards the Land of Ultimate Bliss. Above them, Niefanchen sat on a Nine-Dragon Heavenly Chair, overlooking thend. His domain followed, enveloping the army and advancing towards the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    Their pace, too, was not swift. With each step, the sky grew darker, streaked with shes of lightning. This was a gathering of celestial power. As long as they were soldiers of the Celestial Dynasty, they would not be affected and might even receive a slight boost in strength. Under this celestial power, non-Celestial Dynasty soldiers would be suppressed to some extent, simr to how the Buddhist prohibition suppressed non-Buddhists in the Ten Thousand Mountains.


    As for the Great Qin Celestial Dynasty, the approach was simr, but Ying did not sit on a Nine-Dragon Heavenly Chair. Instead, he was pulled by nine dragons in a chariot, heading towards the Land of Ultimate Bliss. The armies of the five major imperial dynasties all followed the Great Qin Celestial Dynasty, marching mightily towards the Land of Ultimate Bliss. The sky grew darker, and Ying''s domain illuminated the army, pointing directly at the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    Thend of Shenzhou was in turmoil. Wherever the three armies passed, all forces pacified their subordinates, ensuring no interference. Even when passing through other imperial dynasties orrge sects, barriers were lifted, and sect gates were opened.


    Everyone could see the vast scope and great power involved in this war, and no one wanted to be dragged into it.


    Of course, many powerful individuals were attracted by the impending conflict. However, outside the three main armies, they could only y minor roles, scavenging for remnants.


    Zhong Shan''s army had a special mission, so they did not march with Gu Shentong''s main force.


    After leaving the Ancient Holy City, Zhong Shan''s army headed east with all their might, without pausing.


    "Commander, isn''t this pace too hurried? It''s been half a month, and we''ve only rested once. The soldiers are struggling," Shui Wuhen said worriedly.


    "Struggling? They must endure it. Once we reach the East Sea, we will be safe," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "Is there really anyone daring enough to ambush us?" Liu Wushuang asked with a frown.


    "They''re here!" Zhong Shan said with a wry smile.


    No sooner had he spoken than they appeared.


    In front of the army stood five people.


    Leading them was an old acquaintance of Zhong Shan, Pious Bodhisattva, with a faint halo of merit above his head, apanied by four Arhats.


    An emperor-level figure and four king-level figures, specifically to intercept Zhong Shan?


    "Commander, they..." Liu Wushuang was incredulous.


    How could this be? With the Land of Ultimate Bliss in crisis, why were they outside?


    "It''s simple. The main forces of the three Celestial Dynasties are still some distance from the Land of Ultimate Bliss. During this time, the Land of Ultimate Bliss wants to eliminate some threats," Lin Xiao exined from the side.


    "Pious Bodhisattva!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    What he had feared hade true. The red lotus on his forehead turned blue, indicating a bad omen. But in the next moment, it changed to a bright red, indicating great fortune. Zhong Shan was puzzled.


    At that moment, a strange buzzing sound filled the air.


    "Buzz~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Zhong Shan froze in ce. His men, like Zhihuo, quickly surrounded him, clearly aware that something significant was happening.


    This was the spiritual realm of Pious Bodhisattva.


    Zhong Shan''s spirit had entered a hellish mental world created by Pious Bodhisattva.


    The sky was overcast, and the ground was filled with numerous ghosts wandering around. In some ces, the ground turned red and glowed, revealingva pits that looked like honebs, making the scene extremely horrifying.


    "Zhong Shan, hahaha, you''ve finally fallen into my hands. The Buddha ordered me to cut off the wings of the three armies, and you''re the first one I came for. You should feel honored," Pious Bodhisattva''s phantom coldly watched Zhong Shan from a distance.


    Upon entering this world, Zhong Shan sighed deeply.


    If Pious Bodhisattva had used her real strength to fight him, he would be in serious trouble, as the bad omen indicated. But why had she chosen a spiritual battle?


    Of course, for most people, a spiritual confrontation was deadly. If one''s spirit was destroyed in the mental world, their soul would quickly disintegrate, leading toplete annihtion, making reincarnation impossible.


    But for Zhong Shan, it was Pious Bodhisattva''s misfortune.


    With a scornful smile, Zhong Shan said, "I''ve seen fools, but never one as foolish as you, Pious Bodhisattva. Such a vile and ugly old nun using a name like Pious Fragrance. Do you know my reaction every time I hear your name?"


    "What?" Pious Bodhisattva''s eyes shed with anger.


    "I get goosebumps! Truly, old but not wise. Shameless in old age. I bet those four Arhats behind you are your toys. It''s surprising you like to toy with the young. I admire your audacity!" Zhong Shan said venomously.


    "Courting death!" Pious Bodhisattva roared in anger.


    Instantly, a volcano erupted under Zhong Shan''s feet, clearly intending to burn him alive.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan snorted coldly.


    "Eeeeeee~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A strange sound echoed as the eight tails of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail split the endlessva, then opened its mouth and took a huge bite.


    "Gulp."


    It was as if a chunk of the world had been ripped away, leaving a massive gap. The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail wasn''t eating the volcano; it was devouring the very fabric of the mental space.


    Pious Bodhisattva''s face twisted in shock and anger as the fabric of her spiritual world began to unravel.


    "How is this possible?!" she eximed, unable to believe what she was witnessing.

 Chapter 466: The Demise of Piaoxiang

    <h4>Chapter 466: The Demise of Piaoxiang</h4>


    In the spiritual realm of Bodhisattva Piaoxiang, the atmosphere was like a hellish dimension, terrifying and seemingly indestructible. This was a true manifestation of an Emperor Extreme Realm''s spiritual world, a battleground of unprecedented extremity.


    When two entities of the Emperor Extreme Realm confront each other, their spiritual worlds sh. However, if one side hasn''t reached the Emperor Extreme Realm, they are doomed to be utterly consumed by the other. It''s said that an Emperor Extreme Realm expert can kill those weaker than them with just a nce, showcasing their overwhelming power through spiritual domination.


    By enveloping an opponent''s spirit within their own spiritual world and annihting it, they ensure the opponent''s demise. This principle has never changed in thend of Shenzhou. The Emperor Extreme Realm represents absolute power. Unlike the Royal Extreme Realm, even an entire army cannot withstand the gaze of an Emperor Extreme Realm expert; they would be ensnared in the spiritual world and perish.


    Zhong Shan was drawn into this spiritual realm, but instead of dying, his presence instilled a rare fear in Bodhisattva Piaoxiang. Zhong Shan possessed an extraordinarily formidable root spirit. Even the previous generation''s Mud Buddha couldn''t handle it and had to seal it away, guarded by an Emperor Extreme Realm expert, demonstrating the terror of the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail.


    As Zhong Shan opened his mouth, he devoured a piece of the world, tearing a massive rift in the space like a painting being violently ripped apart. Bodhisattva Piaoxiang''s face turned pale.


    "What... what is this?" Bodhisattva Piaoxiang stared at the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail in disbelief.


    "What is this? It''s something that will take your life!" Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    With a series of devouring motions, the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail transformed into eight massive, space-piercing whips. As the tails stirred the sky, the entire spiritual world wrinkled and crumpled, like a canvas being drawn towards its center.


    "No��no��no��no��no��no��no!" Bodhisattva Piaoxiang screamed in terror, sending endless mes towards Zhong Shan''s spirit in a desperate attempt.


    "Inviting the god is easy, sending the god away is hard. Trying to kick me out? Keep dreaming!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    One of the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tails wrapped around the mes, swallowing them effortlessly, allowing Zhong Shan to escape danger.


    The Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail devoured the spiritual world ravenously, while Bodhisattva Piaoxiang''s spirit weakened.


    What kind of cmity have I provoked? Bodhisattva Piaoxiang thought in panic. Suddenly, a three-petaled golden lotus appeared above her head, a nine-rank treasure bestowed by the Guiyuan Buddha not long ago.


    As the golden lotus emerged, it radiated countless golden rays, reinforcing the spiritual world, preventing the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail from further disrupting the space.


    Seeing the stabilization of her spiritual world, Bodhisattva Piaoxiang let out a sigh of relief. But the next scene left her dumbfounded. The Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail''s gaze fixated on the three-petaled golden lotus, eyes filled with greed.


    Witnessing this, Bodhisattva Piaoxiang first trembled, then a resolute look crossed her face as she seemed to have a n.


    "Eat? You want to eat? Then eat! I''ll let you eat!" Bodhisattva Piaoxiang shouted fiercely.


    Under hermand, the three-petaled golden lotus burst forth with even more dazzling golden light, aiming straight at Zhong Shan.


    "Roar��roar��roar��roar��roar��roar��" The Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail opened its massive mouth, asrge as a room, unafraid of the iing golden rays.


    Bodhisattva Piaoxiang''s face grew increasingly frantic as she relentlessly pushed the golden light. Zhong Shan, on the other hand, was slightly astonished. Does Piaoxiang intend to overfeed the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail? Is she testing its appetite?


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but feel an odd sense of amusement. The appetite of the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail? It was even more voracious than the legendary Taotie. Go ahead and eat; it''s like sending a meat bun to a dog, never to return.


    Zhong Shan watched leisurely, while across from him, Bodhisattva Piaoxiang grew increasingly terrified.


    The eight-tailed monster before her remained unscathed. How was this possible? What kind of creature was this? A magical treasure? No, it must be a root spirit. Zhong Shan''s root spirit��he had only recently reached the Integration stage and just started to create his root spirit, but why was this root spirit so terrifying?


    After an hour, Bodhisattva Piaoxiang was numb with shock. Why was this happening? The Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail seemed to grow more delighted the more it ate, while her Three-Petal Golden Lotus couldn''t provide enough energy.


    Just as Bodhisattva Piaoxiang panicked, a strange sound echoed from above. The Three-Petal Golden Lotus she had been refining suddenly disappeared.


    "No, it can''t be, no��no��no��no��no��" Bodhisattva Piaoxiang screamed in disbelief, her entire being descending into madness. She had never encountered anything so terrifying in her life. How could this happen? The Three-Petal Golden Lotus had been consumed by that monster?


    "Roar��" The Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail seemed to finally lose its temper. Opening its massive maw, it swallowed the entire world in one gulp.


    In the outside world, as soon as Bodhisattva Piaoxiang trapped Zhong Shan''s spirit within her spiritual realm, everyone understood what was happening.


    Zhong Shan''s guards quickly surrounded him, their eyes filled with anxiety. Opposite them, the four Arhats were excited.


    Mr. Corpse squinted his eyes, ready to act at any moment.


    Lin Xiao and Shui Wuhen exchanged a knowing nce. With a few hand signals from Shui Wuhen, the army immediately went on full alert, with all the armor-piercing arrows drawn and ready.


    Inside the spiritual realm, one or two hours had passed, but in the outside world, it was only a few moments.


    "Pff��" The four Arhats initially thought that Bodhisattva Piaoxiang would easily handle Zhong Shan, who was only at the Integration stage. However, after six breaths, Bodhisattva Piaoxiang spat out a mouthful of blood. Her face was pale, devoid of any color, and she looked on the verge of death.


    "Run!" Bodhisattva Piaoxiang managed to utter before copsing.


    Run? A Bodhisattva, telling them to run? She had lost to Zhong Shan? How was this possible? She was a Bodhisattva!


    At this moment, Bodhisattva Piaoxiang was extremely weakened. Despite being at the Emperor Extreme Realm, her spiritual world had copsed��no, it had been devoured. She was left with only a fraction of her spirit, incapable of casting any significant spells, her strength less than a hundredth of what it was.


    If she didn''t escape now, she would surely die.


    Bodhisattva Piaoxiang knew she had encountered terrible misfortune. If she hadn''t used her spiritual world, Zhong Shan''s army of a million would have been annihted by now. Instead, she had even lost the Three-Petal Golden Lotus bestowed by the Buddha, a tremendous loss.


    As she fled, Bodhisattva Piaoxiang cast a venomous nce at Zhong Shan, ignoring the four Arhats, and disappeared.


    Zhong Shan watched coldly, knowing that Bodhisattva Piaoxiang couldn''t escape.


    "Boom��" In the distance, a loud explosion echoed through the sky. A ck shadow was sent flying backward��it was Bodhisattva Piaoxiang. Her assants were two humanoid weapons wrapped in white cloth.


    Mr. Corpse''s two Emperor Extreme Realm zombies closed in.


    "Kill��" Shui Wuhenmanded the army, his shout echoing through the battlefield. Immediately, countless armor-piercing arrows soared into the sky.


    Zhi Huo and Qing Hong quickly moved to intercept the fleeing Arhats, ensuring none escaped.


    As Bodhisattva Piaoxiang stabilized herself, the two zombies reappeared in front of her. Normally, she could handle a hundred such zombies with ease, but now, weakened, she dared not use anyrge-scale spells.


    "Boom, boom, boom..." The battle between the zombies and Bodhisattva Piaoxiang was intense, distorting the space around them as powerful energy sts erupted, reminiscent of nuclear explosions Zhong Shan had seen on television in his youth. This was the might of the Emperor Extreme Realm, even in a weakened state, each strike was as powerful as a nuclear st.


    Despite her weakened condition, Bodhisattva Piaoxiang held her ground against the two Emperor Extreme Realm zombies.


    Suddenly, a thundercloud appeared above her head, spanning an acre, with lightning shing and countless small thunder dragons writhing within. This was Zhong Shan''s "Heavenly Thunder Transformation" in action.


    "Roar��" A thunder dragon shot towards Bodhisattva Piaoxiang, striking her in an instant.


    "Boom��" The powerful impact did no harm to her, given her status as a Bodhisattva, but it did disrupt her focus.


    "sh��" One of the zombies drove its hand into Bodhisattva Piaoxiang''s back.


    It''s over! Bodhisattva Piaoxiang realized that if this continued, she would surely die. She turned her gaze to Zhong Shan, filled with venomous hatred.


    "Zhong Shan, I wille back for revenge!" Bodhisattva Piaoxiang screamed with malice.


    With her defeat apparent, how could she think of revenge?


    "She''s attempting to escape with her primordial spirit!" Lin Xiao shouted in rm.


    If Bodhisattva Piaoxiang abandoned her physical body and escaped with her primordial spirit, it would be nearly impossible to catch her, except for a Heavenly Extreme Realm expert.


    As expected, Bodhisattva Piaoxiang''s golden primordial spirit shot from her head towards the sky.


    "You won''t get the chance!" Zhong Shan dered coldly.


    Everyone watched as a massive blue tail, no, a transparent blue tail, emerged from Zhong Shan''s body, striking upwards and ensnaring Bodhisattva Piaoxiang''s escaping primordial spirit, pulling it back instantly.


    What was that? Everyone was stunned, but no one dared to ask.


    Mr. Corpse directed the zombies to swiftly deal with the remaining Arhats while he himself went to handle Bodhisattva Piaoxiang''s lifeless body.


    Zhong Shan quickly sat down cross-legged, as if entering a state of meditation.


    Bodhisattva Piaoxiang was truly unfortunate. If not for her primordial spirit, the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail might not have been able to deal with her. Now, her spirit had unwittingly fallen into the tail''s maw. A single tail wrapped around her, pulling her in and devouring her along with the previously consumed Three-Petal Golden Lotus, beginning the process of refining them together.

 Chapter 467: The Dragon King Ao Chuang

    <h4>Chapter 467: The Dragon King Ao Chuang</h4>


    Nine-Rank Treasure, Three-Petal Golden Lotus. Emperor Extreme Realm Expert''s Primordial Spirit!


    These two items, Zhong Shan had never absorbed anything like them before. But he understood that each one contained boundless energy. Even though the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail absorbed most of it, the leftovers were still incredibly beneficial to him.


    After the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail absorbed the massive energy, it quickly converted some of it into energy that surged into Zhong Shan''s primordial spirit.


    Zhong Shan absorbed the energy frantically. Outside, a gigantic thundercloud began to gather above his head, a direct effect of the "Heavenly Thunder Transformation".


    "Retreat��" Shui Wuhenmanded, and the army swiftly retreated in all directions.


    Everyone slowly moved beyond the range of the thundercloud.


    A ten-acre thundercloud indicated the second stage of "Heavenly Thunder Transformation" and reflected Zhong Shan''s second stage of the Integration period.


    Suddenly, the thundercloud expanded further, growingrger andrger.


    A hundred-acre thundercloud indicated the third stage of the Integration period. The army retreated again.


    A thousand-acre thundercloud��another retreat.


    Everyone watched in astonishment as the thundercloud continued to grow.


    Bigger and bigger, until it spanned ten thousand acres.


    A ten-thousand-acre thundercloud. The entire sky was shrouded in darkness, with countless lightning bolts shing continuously, seemingly ready to unleash a catastrophic storm at any moment.


    Under the immense pressure of the heavenly might, the Golden Core stage cultivators felt an overwhelming sense of fear. This fear stemmed from their leader, Zhong Shan, which only intensified their admiration for him.


    Lightning threads flickered, and thunder dragons rolled within the thundercloud.


    "Boom��" The first bolt of heavenly lightning struck down, hitting a nearby mountain peak.


    "Boom��" The mountain summit was instantly ttened.


    "Boom, boom, boom��" Endless lightning poured down from the sky, transforming the entire area beneath the thundercloud into a world of lightning. It was like a waterfall of electricity, bathing the region in a flood of blinding light.


    The thundercloud persisted for nearly an hour before it finally ceased.


    Below, every mountain and valley had been sted into rubble.


    Such terrifying power. The Integration period?


    If there had been a million-strong army below, they would have been nearly annihted. Zhong Shan''s personal strength alone was equivalent to that of a million soldiers. Themanders were thrilled; who wouldn''t be excited to have such a powerful leader?


    Fifth stage of the Integration period.


    Zhong Shan rose gently, a look of satisfaction shing in his eyes. The Three-Petal Golden Lotus and the Emperor Extreme Realm primordial spirit were indeed potent supplements. If he could find more of these, it would be wonderful.


    Of course, for anyone else, this would be an impossible dream. How many Emperor Extreme Realm experts were there in the world? How many Nine-Rank treasures? Finding more was a pipe dream. Even if one had the chance to encounter them, these were Emperor Extreme Realm experts, capable of crushing you with a finger. To think of taking their primordial spirits was pure folly.


    Suppressing his joy, Zhong Shan looked around. Within ten thousand acres, everything had been reduced to ruins. Zhong Shan shook his head slightly, looking up at the massive thundercloud he had summoned, understanding its implications.


    At this moment, the others quickly flew over from the distance.


    "Congrattions, Commander!" they all eximed in unison, bowing to him.


    Zhong Shan epted their congrattions with a slight nod, his mind already contemting the next steps in his path to even greater power.


    "Ha ha, good, let''s continue our journey," Zhong Shan said, clearly in high spirits.


    Two monthster, they arrived at the eastern coast. On a sandy beach, Zhong Shan stood with his generals and troops, facing a group of people.


    In front were Hao Meili and the Western Poison Emperor. Hao Meili had a small golden dragon perched on her shoulder, while the Western Poison Emperor had a peculiar smile on his face. At the forefront was a third person.


    This middle-aged man wore a purple dragon robe, his eyes emitting faint electric sparks. He exuded an aura of immense power and authority, so much so that a single nce gave one the impression of an insurmountable mountain.


    "Zhong Shan, this is Ao Chuang, the Dragon King, one of the four Dragon Kings of the East Sea. He''s leading a million dragons to join us in the assault on the Land of Ultimate Bliss!" Hao Meili quickly introduced.


    Dragon King? Zhong Shan''s mind raced. In the Dragon n, the highest authority was the Dragon Sovereign of the Heavenly Extreme Realm, followed by Dragon Kings or Dragon Princes. The small golden dragon on Hao Meili''s shoulder was clearly not yet titled, as titled dragons were all Emperor Extreme Realm experts. Ao Chuang, the Dragon King?


    "Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, First-ss Duke of the East, greets the Dragon King Ao Chuang," Zhong Shan said.


    Though Ao Chuang was an Emperor Extreme Realm expert, Zhong Shan''s status was not inferior to that of the Dragon King. They could speak as equals.


    "A First-ss Duke of the East? Heh, General Zhong, I''ve heard much about you," Ao Chuang said with a scrutinizing gaze.


    Although Ao Chuang verbally acknowledged Zhong Shan''s status, his eyes held a trace of disdain. As a superior, he would never consider himself equal to an ant, even if Zhong Shan had reached the Integration stage. In Ao Chuang''s eyes, Zhong Shan was still an ant.


    A million-strong army? Ao Chuang could annihte it at will. Such was the power of an Emperor Extreme Realm expert, capable of disregarding most of humanity.


    "The Dragon King was invited with great effort. Zhong Shan, you must secure the Immortal Stele," Hao Meili said excitedly.


    Invited the Dragon King? Although Zhong Shan wasn''t familiar with Ao Chuang, he knew the Dragon King wouldn''t help out of kindness. Otherwise, he would have assisted Hao Meili long ago. Ao Chuang likely joined due to the promations from the three great heavenly dynasties. He wanted to observe the situation, follow the army for justified actions, and possibly benefit from the chaos. Of course, he might also have other schemes.


    "Then I must trouble Dragon King Ao Chuang," Zhong Shan said.


    No matter what, Ao Chuang was a formidable force. Though not under hismand and with hidden motives, Zhong Shan could still utilize him with proper management.


    Behind the trio were a group of dragon generals. In the distant sea, numerous flood dragons andrge snakes, yet to evolve into dragons, scattered around.


    "No problem, let''s move," Ao Chuang said nonchntly.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The army moved north along the coast. The Zhong family army took thend route, while the dragons and serpents swam swiftly through the sea.


    Two monthster.


    The army rested in a valley. Zhong Shan sat in arge tent when Hao Meili arrived.


    "Zhong Shan, it''s been three days. Why haven''t we set off? The Dragon King is getting angry," Hao Meili eximed.


    "Going early is useless. The main forces of the three great heavenly dynasties won''t arrive so quickly. We need to coordinate well to avoid bing cannon fodder," Zhong Shan exined.


    "That''s not it. The Dragon King said you might be waiting for someone. It''s not about coordinating with the main forces at all," Hao Meili retorted, her eyes ring, demanding an exnation.


    So the Dragon King figured it out? Zhong Shan was slightly surprised but quickly understood. It wasn''t tooplex a matter, after all.


    "You''re right. I am waiting for someone," Zhong Shan admitted with a slight smile, then continued, "But that someone is crucial to our sess."


    Hao Meili''s anger seemed to diminish slightly, curiosity recing it. "Who are you waiting for that''s so important?"


    "A powerful ally who can tip the scales in our favor," Zhong Shan replied, his eyes gleaming with confidence.


    Hao Meili''s eyes widened with intrigue, but before she could press further, a loud roar echoed from the sky, drawing everyone''s attention.


    "That''s right, I''m waiting for someone," Zhong Shan said.


    "Who are you waiting for?" Hao Meili pressed.


    "I''m waiting for my son," Zhong Shan replied.


    Hao Meili was speechless, feeling a wave of frustration. Waiting for your son?


    "You''re dying the movement of a million troops and a million dragons and snakes just to wait for your son?" Hao Meili fumed, then paused as a thought struck her. "Wait, you have a son?"


    Zhong Shan was momentarily at a loss for words at herst question. "Yes, I arranged to meet my son here, and then we will head to the Land of Ultimate Bliss together."


    "Can''t your son walk here himself? You could leave someone to notify him. The sooner we enter the Land of Ultimate Bliss, the better our chances of finding the Immortal Stele. It''s not like we can just walk in and find it easily," Hao Meili retorted.


    Zhong Shan smiled at Hao Meili. "Did someone put you up to this?"


    Zhong Shan could tell that if it were truly Hao Meili, she would have arrogantly ordered him to move on. Instead, she was trying to reason with him, indicating that someone else was impatient and had prompted her to urge him. Only two people could influence Hao Meili like this: the Western Poison Emperor or Ao Chuang, the Dragon King. Since the Western Poison Emperor preferred dys, it had to be Ao Chuang.


    "So what if someone did? Are you moving or not?" Hao Meili reverted to her domineering attitude.


    "Don''t worry, Miss Hao Meili. The eleven Immortal Steles won''t run away," Zhong Shan assured with a smile.


    "How can you be so sure?" Hao Meili raised an eyebrow.


    "Because I ced those eleven Immortal Steles in a safe spot within the Land of Ultimate Bliss. When the timees, you can follow me to retrieve them. No need to waste time searching," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Really? How is that possible? You ced them there? Why didn''t you bring them back?" Hao Meili looked skeptical.


    "When have I ever lied to you? The eleven Immortal Steles are under a Buddha''s seal, making them impossible to move right now. But with the location known, we can retrieve them when the time is right," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright," Hao Meili agreed, visibly more satisfied and courteous towards Zhong Shan.


    With Zhong Shan''s assurance, Hao Meili was no longer worried. However, while she was content, someone else was growing impatient. On the fifth day of their stay in the valley, Dragon King Ao Chuang personally approached Zhong Shan''s main hall.


    "Duke of the East?" Ao Chuang called out.


    "Dragon King, pleasee in," Zhong Shan immediately stood to greet him.


    "I came to ask when we will continue our journey. Are we going to wait here until the Land of Ultimate Bliss is destroyed?" Ao Chuang questioned bluntly.


    "Please calm down, Dragon King. As soon as my son arrives, we will depart," Zhong Shan replied firmly. Emperor Extreme Realm? So what? I just killed one a few months ago.


    As Ao Chuang was about to retort, his eyes suddenly narrowed, and he turned to look outside the hall.


    "Commander, the Young Master has arrived," Lin Xiao announced with a smile as he entered the hall.


    Zhong Tian is here?


    "Invite them in!" Zhong Shan said promptly, knowing it wasn''t just Zhong Tian who had arrived.


    Soon, two figures entered the hall. The others had been stationed outside. One was Zhong Tian, dressed in a ck robe, exuding confidence. Behind him was a frail old man with nk, seemingly blind eyes.


    As the two entered the hall, Ao Chuang''s gaze immediately fixed on the old blind man.

 Chapter 468: The Battle Begins

    <h4>Chapter 468: The Battle Begins</h4>


    "Father!" Zhong Tian called out as soon as he entered the hall.


    Zhong Shan nodded in satisfaction. Beside Zhong Tian, the old blind man bowed slightly towards Zhong Shan.


    Seeing this, Ao Chuang raised an eyebrow.


    "Ming Tai?" Ao Chuang frowned.


    "Ming Tai greets General Zhong, and the Dragon King Ao Chuang," the old blind man said softly.


    When the old blind man spoke, he ced Zhong Shan before Ao Chuang, which displeased the Dragon King, though he said nothing.


    Ming Tai? Anyone who couldmand Ao Chuang''s respect was no ordinary figure.


    "With a heart like a bright mirror, reflecting the dust to achieve enlightenment. You must be Ming Tai, the abbot of Daming Temple?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "With a heart like a bright mirror, reflecting the dust to achieve enlightenment? General Zhong''s words are rich in Zen meaning and deeply align with Buddhist principles. But I am not the abbot of Daming Temple," the old blind man replied.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan was taken aback. Zhong Tian had previously mentioned that the abbot of Daming Temple was a Bodhisattva named Ming Tai. How could it not be him?


    "Father, I am now the abbot of Daming Temple," Zhong Tian said.


    Hearing this, Ao Chuang''s eyes filled with disbelief. This ''Little Pudding'' was the abbot of Daming Temple? Daming Temple was an ancient temple, predating even the Land of Ultimate Bliss. And now its abbot was this young man at the peak of the Nascent Soul stage?


    Zhong Shan was also surprised. How could this be? How had Tian''er be the abbot? Had he revealed the ''�d'' symbol amulet bestowed by the Buddha? Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, casting an inquiring nce at Zhong Tian.


    Zhong Tian, understanding his father''s question, shook his head.


    Seeing Zhong Tian''s response, Zhong Shan turned his gaze back to Ming Tai Bodhisattva. The man appeared ordinary, slightly gaunt, andpletely blind.


    Completely blind? Zhong Shan''s mind raced. Seeing without eyes meant seeing with the mind. With this thought, Zhong Shan looked at Ming Tai Bodhisattva again, realizing that he was no ordinary person.


    "Father, we brought three thousand monks from Daming Temple. They''re waiting outside," Zhong Tian said.


    "Very well, let''s set out!" Zhong Shan nodded and immediately gave the order.


    The army once again marched towards the Land of Ultimate Bliss. But this time, the Zhong family army was not the same as when they had first left the ancient capital of the Sacred Dynasty.


    Their military presence was overwhelming and powerful.


    No other vanguard could match Zhong Shan''s formidable force.


    Along the way, Zhong Shan met with Zhong Tian privately.


    "Tian''er, how did you be the abbot of Daming Temple?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "That day, when I returned, it was as if Grandmaster Ming Tai saw right through me. He merely encouraged me a bit and then handed over the entire Daming Temple to me. He even resigned from his position as Bodhisattva in my favor. So now I hold the Bodhisattva rank, though for some reason, he still retains his Bodhisattva status. Therefore, Daming Temple currently has two Bodhisattvas," Zhong Tian exined.


    "Have you tested him?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, he bears no ill will towards me," Zhong Tian replied.


    "That''s good," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The army continued for another five months.


    Finally, they once again beheld the Ten Thousand Mountains of the Buddha''s Prohibition.


    As he gazed upon this vast area, Zhong Shan took a deep breath at the forefront.


    I''ve returned. The ce that once imprisoned me, I shall reim a hundredfold.


    At the same time, various armies from the three great heavenly dynasties had already reached the Ten Thousand Mountains of the Buddha''s Prohibition. The grand battle was about to begin.


    Chapter 468: The Battle Begins


    Each of the three heavenly dynasties had sent twenty armies, totaling sixty armies. They pierced the Ten Thousand Mountains of the Buddha''s Prohibition from sixty different directions, like sixty sharp knives, rapidly advancing towards the heart of the mountains.


    In the distance, three ominous skies moved closer and closer to the Ten Thousand Mountains. These were the main forces of the three great heavenly dynasties, led by their sovereigns. High above, the sovereignsmanded countless troops marching towards the mountains.


    Gu Shentong, Nie Fancheng, and Ying, the three sovereigns, were about to descend.


    Inside the Land of Ultimate Bliss, Buddhist chants filled the air as countless monks and nuns recited various scriptures. Numerous martial monks, wielding their weapons, stood ready to subdue demons.


    The Past Amita Buddha, the Present Guiyuan Buddha, and the Future Jinchan Buddha sat on a grand tform, surrounded by a group of Bodhisattvas and numerous Arhats. This was the main force of the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    "Notify themanders of the allied sects and dynasties outside. The sixty vanguard armies have arrived at the Ten Thousand Mountains. Have them engage the vanguard," Guiyuan Buddha instructed.


    "Yes!" a messenger Arhat responded, then flew out of the tform and towards the outside of the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    Outside the Land of Ultimate Bliss, there were also numerous armies. These were various dynasties that had been brought under the influence of the Land of Ultimate Bliss, simr to how the Yin Moon Dynasty on Tiang Ind had been influenced in the past. Among them was even an emperor leading his troops.


    The sects were also involved. Almost all the temples in the Ten Thousand Mountains had allied with the Land of Ultimate Bliss. Additionally, many sects worldwide had been subjugated and turned into vassal sects, ready to follow orders.


    "By order of Guiyuan Buddha, the allied sects and dynasties are to immediately engage the sixty heavenly dynasty vanguard armies," the messenger Arhat announced.


    "By the Buddha''smand," the leaders responded promptly.


    Were they being used as cannon fodder? Although these factions were vassals of the Land of Ultimate Bliss, they weren''t foolish. Being sent to face the vanguard armies of the three great heavenly dynasties was preferable to confronting the main forces led by the sovereigns themselves.


    They dispersed, moving towards different directions to engage the vanguard armies.


    Outside the Ten Thousand Mountains, numerous third-party observers had gathered. These were individuals and groups who aligned with neither the three great heavenly dynasties nor the Land of Ultimate Bliss. They were opportunists, ready to attack the losing side and reap the benefits. Though annoying like flies to both sides, these opportunists could be valuable allies to the victorious side.


    As one of the vanguard armies marched past a mountain, two stunning women emerged from a valley.


    One of them was Nian Youyou, with a small fluffball, a primeval divine beast, perched on her shoulder. The other was her master, who always wore a veil. Even with the veil and her robe, her purely feminine aura was unmistakable, stirring emotions with just a nce.


    "Master!" Nian Youyou frowned.


    "The great battle is about to begin, Youyou. Are you ready?" her master asked.


    "Yes," Nian Youyou replied reluctantly.


    "We''re here now. You must not hesitate. I have learned that Zhong Shan will attack from the eastern side of the Ten Thousand Mountains. You must go and assassinate him," her master instructed.


    "Master!" Nian Youyou protested again.


    "What? You still can''t bring yourself to do it?" her master asked coldly.


    "That''s not it. I just want to know, Master, how do you know Zhong Shan will attack from the east of the Ten Thousand Mountains? The routes of these vanguard armies should be unknown to anyone except the three sovereigns," Nian Youyou asked, frowning.


    The woman was silent for a moment before speaking softly, "Don''t worry about that. Just remember what I told you. Kill Zhong Shan. Only by killing Zhong Shan can the Taishang Forgetting Emotions Technique advance further, possibly even breaking through to the Immortal Realm. Otherwise, you will grow old and wither away. This is your mission; you must fulfill it."


    "Yes!" Nian Youyou replied, keeping her head down, suppressing the pain in her eyes so her master wouldn''t see it.


    "Go now. I have other matters to attend to. I will check on your progresster," the woman said.


    "Yes, Master," Nian Youyou responded with a hint of bitterness.


    The woman vanished in a flicker, leaving Nian Youyou behind. With a touch of reluctance, Nian Youyou patted the small creature on her shoulder, ''Xiao Qing,'' and sped towards the eastern side of the Ten Thousand Mountains.


    Eastern Ten Thousand Mountains


    Starting from the East Sea, Zhong Shan led his forces, advancing with overwhelming momentum. The million-strong army moved as one, with Shui Wuhenmanding the troops, Zhong Tian leading three thousand elite monks from Daming Temple, and Ao Chuang directing the million dragons. It was not entirely urate to call them dragons, as many had not fully evolved. Nevertheless, these colossal serpents possessed terrifying defenses and could devour enemies whole.


    "Did you see the banners and the projections of the strong? Exterminate them all. Spread out in the Three Talents Battle Formation," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" the generals responded immediately.


    Ao Chuang smirked coldly, not opposing the strategy. With Zhong Shan leading, the army''s performance would undoubtedly be exceptional.


    The army spread out, forming a hundred-mile-wide as they advanced.


    Giant serpents slithered across the mountains, creating a thunderous roar. The synchronized march of the soldiers overshadowed even the noise of the mixed army of dragons and serpents.


    "Faster, faster, faster!" Hao Meili eximed in excitement.


    After two days of marching, the enemy finally appeared.


    It was an imperial dynasty, with the emperor himself leading the troops. Arge banner bearing the character "Ming" stood prominently.


    The Daming Dynasty?


    The Daming Dynasty''s army also heard the thunderous roar in the distance. At that moment, a scout rushed back to report.


    "Your Majesty, ahead we discovered a million-strong army and a million dragons and serpents approaching rapidly," the scout reported.


    "A million-strong army? A million dragons and serpents? Dragons? How is that possible? Why are the dragon n involved?" a strategist beside the emperor eximed.


    "What is their banner?" the emperor asked.


    "Zhong," the scout replied immediately.


    "Zhong?" The emperor was puzzled.


    "Your Majesty, it''s the demon from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, the Duke of the East, Zhong Shan!" the strategist eximed,beling Zhong Shan as a demon.


    "Zhong Shan?" The emperor''s heart tightened, but he still looked puzzled.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. When Zhong Shan first led an army, he allied with the dragon n, diverting the waters of the East Sea to flood twelve coastal cities of the Dayu Empire. Zhong Shanmands his troops like a deity. We cannot defeat him. We really cannot. Your Majesty, we must flee," the strategist urged in fear.


    "Nonsense! How can I flee without a fight? Notify all regimentalmanders to prepare for battle," the emperor ordered.


    "Yes!" The subordinates quickly waved their small gs, issuing military orders.


    The strategist, however, was filled with anxiety, looking at the emperor with desperate eyes. Zhong Shan''s reputation was too fearsome.


    "Alright, also send word to the other imperial armies for reinforcements," the emperor said, deciding to seek aid while preparing for battle.

 Chapter 469: The Arrival of the Three Great Sages

    <h4>Chapter 469: The Arrival of the Three Great Sages</h4>


    Facing the first obstacle: the Great Ming Dynasty.


    The might of an elite dynasty��if it had been ten years ago, Zhong Shan might have hesitated. However, considering his current status and capabilities, all he needs is a starting point to develop to a level where others can only look up to him. Even now, his Zhong Family Army alone is enough to handle the entire Great Ming Dynasty, not to mention the additional force of a million Dragon Serpents and three thousand experts from the Daming Temple.


    "The experts from Daming Temple, hold your positions. Shui Wuhen, surround and intercept. Forty thousand Dragon Serpents, engage!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen and Zhong Tian responded immediately.


    Ao Chuang, the Dragon King, slightly frowned. Forty thousand Dragon Serpents? Were the remaining sixty thousand to rest?


    Of course, it had been agreed beforehand that unless Ao Chuang interfered, the million Dragon Serpents would follow Zhong Shan''s orders. Zhong Shan had appointed Lin Xiao as themander of the Dragon Serpent forces, with Ao Chuang''s approval.


    As the battlemenced, the winds and clouds stirred. Shui Wuhenmanded the million Zhong Family soldiers, while Lin Xiao led forty thousand Dragon Serpents, officially charging into the battlefield.


    Zhong Shan, along with his chief officers, observed the scene from the peak of a mountain.


    The Zhong Family Army was the elite of the elite, excelling in both cultivation and coordination. Under Shui Wuhen''smand, arrows rained down like harbingers of death, swiftly iming the lives of their enemies.


    As for Lin Xiao, he had already be familiar with the Dragon Serpents'' nature despite it being his first timemanding them. By controlling the influential Dragon Serpents, he could effectively lead the entire million-strong force.


    Orders were quickly dispatched. Numerous serpents burrowed into the ground,unching surprise attacks on the enemy''s rear.


    The Great Ming Dynasty''s three hundred thousand soldiers charged ferociously. However, facing Zhong Shan''s army, they seemed constrained at every turn. The Zhong Family Army operated as a single entity, moving, attacking, retreating, and advancing with lethal precision. The army was like a deadly weapon, invincible and relentless.


    Adding to the chaos, countless Dragon Serpents suddenly erupted from the ground, their massive tails wreaking havoc. This sudden assault threw the Great Ming Dynasty''smand into disarray, rendering their strategy ineffective.


    "Your Majesty, I told you, this Zhong Shan is a demon, a true demon!" the advisor beside the emperor eximed in fear.


    "Hold your ground! Kill them all!" the emperor shouted, his eyes bloodshot.


    "Your Majesty, we should retreat. Zhong Shan is beyond our capabilities. Even two great dynasties couldn''t handle him, and he recently humiliated the Guiyuan Buddha. We should leave now!" the advisor urged.


    The emperor red at the advisor, his gaze terrifying. The advisor trembled under the emperor''s stare.


    "If we can''t defeat this small army, how can we talk about dominating the dynasty?" Ignoring the advisor''s plea, the emperor continued tomand the battle.


    But does having resolve guarantee victory?


    After a day, the Great Ming Dynasty''s forces had suffered heavy losses, with over half their soldiers dead or injured. Reluctantly, they sounded the retreat.


    Zhong Shan did not pursue them but instead surrounded the remaining troops in a valley, allowing a few to escape and report back, while ensuring the majority could not leave.


    "Zhong Shan, what are you doing?" Ao Chuang frowned.


    "Fighting a battle! Why, does the Dragon King think my tactics arecking?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Just wipe them out and move on to the Land of Ultimate Bliss," Ao Chuang said.


    "I''m the vanguard, my main task is to eliminate the enemy. As for attacking the Land of Ultimate Bliss, it''s not the right time yet," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Why not?" Ao Chuang''s eyes widened.


    Why not? Rushing into the Land of Ultimate Bliss now would be suicidal. You may be at the Imperial Extreme Realm, but my million-strong army would be annihted by a single strike from the Buddha.


    "The holy decree is as such, Zhong Shan cannot defy it. If the Dragon King is interested, he may venture into the Land of Ultimate Bliss first," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Ao Chuang frowned and, without further ado, turned and left rudely.


    Zhong Shan paid him no mind. He continued to surround the Great Ming Dynasty''s forces, reorganizing his troops in preparation for the next wave of reinforcements.


    Indeed, reinforcements came. Within five days, two more dynasties and three sects arrived. The sects were naturally dealt with by the Daming Temple experts, while the dynastic armies didn''t even require Zhong Shan''s directmand; Lin Xiao and Shui Wuhen were more than capable of annihting them.


    After waiting another day with no additional reinforcements arriving, Zhong Shan waved his hand to his generals. They wiped out the remaining Great Ming Dynasty troopspletely.


    Meanwhile, outside the Ten Thousand Buddha Mountains, the sky grew dark and oppressive.


    The three emperors of the heavenly dynasties had finally arrived.


    To the south, Gu Shentong stood high above, with an endless number of powerful figures and countless troops and tigers below him.


    To the southwest, Ying rode in a chariot pulled by nine dragons, apanied by endless powerful figures and countless troops.


    To the northwest, Nie Fancheng sat high in the sky, surrounded by countless powerful figures and phoenixes.


    The three main armies halted outside the Ten Thousand Buddha Mountains, ring coldly at the vast mountain range before them.


    To the south, Gu Shentong''s expression turned cold as he dered, "Tian Lao, Taigu Sacred Capital."


    To the southwest, Ying, sitting in his nine-dragon chariot,manded, "Guigu, Xianyang Sacred Capital."


    To the northwest, Nie Fancheng, seated in the sky, coldly ordered, "Dishi, Lihuo Sacred Capital."


    "Yes!" came the simultaneous response from the three main armies.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    In three different directions, the surrounding environment underwent a massive transformation. Mountains and rivers vanished, as if the world was undergoing a metamorphosis. They slowly disappeared, reced by three new environments.


    To the south, the air was suddenly filled with surging energy. Numerous buildings appeared, and floating inds rose from the ground. The world transformed into the scene of the Taigu Sacred Capital. The Feng Shui array had created a derived world, birthing the Taigu Sacred Capital. Even the endless stars in the sky seemed different.


    The Taigu Sacred Capital, with all its splendor and glory, had been transnted here. Along with the heavenly momentum Gu Shentong had umted, the Taigu Sacred Capital became incredibly lifelike. With Gu Shentong personally controlling this ''derived Taigu Sacred Capital'', it was even stronger than when Tian Lao had managed it.


    Tian Lao''s current role was merely to stabilize this derived world, leaving everything else under Gu Shentong''s control.


    Simrly, in the northwest, a Lihuo Sacred Capital emerged,pletely transforming that part of the world. In the southwest, a massive city appeared, its grandeur rivaling or even surpassing that of the Taigu and Lihuo Sacred Capitals.


    Once the three sacred capitals were established, they began advancing towards the Ten Thousand Buddha Mountains.


    This was not just the advance of individuals, but the advance of entire worlds, expanding and moving forward. Everything in their path was ttened, leaving not even a de of grass behind.


    This was the power of the derived worlds, like giant heavenly wheels rolling forward.


    Within the derived worlds, there was no longer any difort. The suppression that the Ten Thousand Buddha Mountains exerted on non-Buddhists hadpletely vanished.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan could see the vastness of the approaching worlds. But now was not the time to charge forward.


    The collision of these worlds could easily crush him to dust. Thus, Zhong Shan decided to follow the outskirts of this derived world towards the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    The derived world moved slowly, so Zhong Shan led his army forward at a measured pace.


    "Come out, there''s no need to hide any longer," the old blind monk, Mingtai Bodhisattva, suddenly spoke from behind Zhong Shan.


    As soon as the old blind man spoke, Ao Chuang raised an eyebrow, then his pupils shrank, frowning slightly at Mingtai Bodhisattva. Although he sensed the anomaly after Mingtai''s reminder, he was still a step behind him.


    Zhong Shan was also slightly surprised. Someone was following us?


    Looking in the direction Mingtai was facing, Zhong Shan saw a piece of dead wood in the distance suddenly transform into an alluring woman.


    "You dared to sneak up on us. Zhong Shan, let me curse her to death," Hao Meili immediately shouted. Xidu Emperor also looked on coldly.


    "Don''t!" Zhong Shan quickly interrupted.


    Everyone was puzzled.


    "She''s my friend!" Zhong Shan immediately said.


    Friend? Hao Meili was slightly taken aback, then awkwardly refrained from cursing.


    "Yuyou, what are you doing here?" Zhong Shan asked.


    In the distance, Nian Yuyou''s expression was slightlyplex. In fact, she had found Zhong Shan a few days ago. Due to her bloodline inheritance ability, even an Imperial Extreme Realm expert couldn''t detect her. It wasn''t impossible for her to kill Zhong Shan. However, for some reason, she had been in a daze, merely watching Zhong Shan from afar, unable to make a move. Just as Zhong Shan led his army to depart, her emotions stirred, revealing a w that the old blind monk noticed.


    Since she had been discovered, there was no point in trying to strike. Ao Chuang and the old blind monk''s strengths were unknown, but she could sense they were stronger than herself, not to mention the presence of Xidu Emperor and other experts. Attempting to assassinate Zhong Shan now was nearly impossible. Instead of feeling frustrated by her failed n, Nian Yuyou inexplicably let out a long sigh of relief, feeling an unexinable sense of rxation.


    "The three great heavenly dynasties are besieging the Land of Ultimate Bliss. This has caused quite a stir in the Divine Continent, attracting countless onlookers. I''m just one of them," Nian Yuyou said.


    Spectating? Zhong Shan smiled slightly. Indeed, the Ten Thousand Buddha Mountains must be hiding numerous experts now.


    "Come with me, let''s take a look together," Zhong Shan invited.


    "Alright," Nian Yuyou nodded, somewhat silent, as if lost in thought.


    Zhong Shan had no time to delve into Nian Yuyou''s thoughts. A great battle was imminent, and time was of the essence.


    Since Zhong Shan considered her a friend, the others didn''t pay her much attention. Only Mingtai Bodhisattva frowned. Others might not know, but he was well aware that he only discovered Nian Yuyou because she inadvertently revealed a slight w. She had been here for at least a few days.


    Hiding for days? Just to meet Zhong Shan? If that were the case, she could have revealed herself days ago. But since Zhong Shan called her a friend, it wasn''t his ce to say more.


    Zhong Shan''s trust in Nian Yuyou stemmedrgely from seeing the ancestral divine beast on her shoulder. Memories of their years as a couple resonated in his heart. Thus, he unconsciously chose to trust her. After all, humans are emotional beings, and even the most rational person can be swayed by deep emotions. As long as safety was notpromised, what else was there to worry about?

 Chapter 470: The Heaven-Turning Seal

    <h4>Chapter 470: The Heaven-Turning Seal</h4>


    The Zhong Family Army moved towards the Land of Ultimate Bliss, following the derived Taigu Sacred Capital.


    The allied sects and dynasties of the Land of Ultimate Bliss had almost been entirely eradicated by the vanguard forces of the three great heavenly dynasties. The path was clear and smooth.


    The three powerful emperors, each with their own domain in the sky, converged towards the modest Zen temple of the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    With the allied sects and dynasties dealt with, numerous third-party experts��those who hade from all over the world upon hearing the news��dared not rush ahead of the three emperors and could only follow from a distance.


    After two days, the three emperors finally arrived near the Zen temple of the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    To the south, the sky roiled with wind and clouds, and starlight zed, with countless stars shining brightly. This was the sky of Gu Shentong, the sky of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty.


    To the west, purple energy surged in the sky, radiating a unique brilliance, exuding unparalleled majesty that overlooked thend and its people.


    To the northwest, the sky was a fiery red, as if countless mes were churning, dazzlingly bright.


    Below were massive sacred capitals. At the center of each sacred capital, atop a high mountain, stood a person.


    The three men wore crowns that ttened the heavens, royal robes, and their eyes shone with infinite majesty. They were in harmony with the heavens, overlooking all beings. This was the form of the strongest��the Heavenly Extreme Realm, the Emperors.


    Gu Shentong, Nie Fancheng, Ying.


    If anyone had previously doubted the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty or Ying, now there was only fear. Whether it was the recognition from Gu Shentong and Nie Fancheng, or themanding presence of Ying, it was enough to earn everyone''s respect. The sudden emergence of another emperor made everyone feel a sense of unreality.


    The three emperors together looked towards the Zen temple of the Land of Ultimate Bliss in the distance.


    In the Zen temple, numerous monks stood with their staff, seemingly ready to face the three heavenly dynasties. However, the cold sweat on their foreheads revealed their inner tension.


    At the entrance to the Land of Ultimate Bliss, stood two Bodhisattvas at the Imperial Extreme Realm, with faint halos above their heads, staring in shock at the three sacred capitals.


    "The three Emperors are the most esteemed people in the Divine Continent. Do you intend to bully the few with the many, earning the scorn of future generations?" one of the Bodhisattvas suddenly shouted.


    At this shout, silence fell. All the tigers stopped roaring, and all the phoenixes ceased their cries, all eyes fixed on the Bodhisattva at the center.


    The gazes were filled with provocation and hostility, directly targeting the Bodhisattva.


    None of the three Emperors spoke. Conversing with a Bodhisattva would be beneath their status.


    At this moment, Gu Shentong waved his hand.


    Suddenly, a seal appeared in his palm.


    Zhong Shan, watching from afar, saw clearly that it was the imperial seal, forged from Nine-Dragon Heaven Jade, the Emperor''s Imperial Seal, symbolizing the authority of a heavenly dynasty. He also possessed an imperial seal, though it was undoubtedly inferior to Gu Shentong''s.


    Gu Shentong flipped his right hand, and the seal was tossed into the air, rapidly erging until it covered the sky, as if it would engulf the heavens.


    With a flip of his hand, the imperial seal transformed into a mountain-sized object that fiercely pressed down towards the Zen temple of the Land of Ultimate Bliss. The seal descended with the force of a billion pounds, unstoppable and invincible.


    The bottom of the seal glowed red, seemingly possessing the power to annihte all evil forces. Despite the relentless magical attacks from the experts below, not a single crack appeared in the red glow.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan swallowed hard, looking at the powerful seal, involuntarily recalling a term he had read in novels in his youth��the "Heaven-Turning Seal." It was so simr!


    "Boom!"


    The imperial seal of the Heavenly Dynasty struck the ground fiercely. No matter how the experts attacked, they couldn''t move it an inch. They could only face their doom in terror, crushed under the imperial seal. Even the two Bodhisattvas attacked the Heavenly Dynasty''s seal with all their might, but they had to realize who they were up against��Gu Shentong, the Lord of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, wielding a seal he had refined for thousands of years. To shake it? Even an Imperial Extreme Realm expert couldn''t move it an inch.


    In thest moment, one of the Bodhisattvas, seeing the dire situation, quickly fled into the main hall, escaping into the Land of Ultimate Bliss. The other, however, was mercilessly crushed by the imperial seal, even his powerful primordial spirit was obliterated.


    The imperial seal imprinted on the ground.


    The immense impact caused the entire Ten Thousand Buddha Mountains to tremble, a terrifying tremor. Countless third-party experts in the distance recoiled in fear.


    Gu Shentong flipped his hand, and the massive imperial seal flew back, transforming into arge seal, which Gu Shentong then put away.


    This was Gu Shentong''s imperial seal, also one of his magical treasures. While the sealcked the transformative wonders of some magical items, its vastness, heaviness, and invincibility made it one of the most powerful treasures in the world.


    The three emperors remained expressionless, as if this was a matter of course.


    Once the imperial seal was withdrawn, the ground revealed the numerous corpses of experts crushed by the seal. The main hall of the Land of Ultimate Bliss, which once served as the entrance to the inner sanctum, had been smashed.


    However, the entrance to the Land of Ultimate Bliss didn''t disappear. Instead, it expanded countless times, towering into the sky, forming a vertical triangr prism. Each of the three faces provided entry into the Land of Ultimate Bliss, as if the original hall had merely been a limiter for this entrance.


    "Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty Army, follow me into the Land of Ultimate Bliss. Kill!"


    "Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty Army, follow me into the Land of Ultimate Bliss. Kill!"


    "Da Li Heavenly Dynasty Army, follow me into the Land of Ultimate Bliss. Kill!"


    Gu Shentong, Ying, and Nie Fanchengmanded simultaneously.


    Then, the armies of the three sacred capitals each chose a different entrance, slowly crushing into the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    All the troops and the national beasts entered, heading into the Land of Ultimate Bliss to confront the powerful Buddhas.


    Finally, all three sacred capitals had entered, but above the three entrances in the outside world, the skies remained, each reflecting the dominion of the three emperors.


    Someone couldn''t resist and rushed towards the entrance that the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty had used.


    "Boom!"


    A heavenly thunderbolt descended, shattering the intruder into pieces.


    "Hiss!"


    The onlookers gasped in unison. That was Nie Fancheng''s sky. Even though a part of the sky remained outside, it still signified that it was his territory, and no one should think of overstepping. Anyone who dared would only meet death.


    Yet there were still those who refused to believe it, quickly charging into the area under the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty.


    "Boom!"


    A purple thunderbolt struck down, simrly sting the person into pieces.


    Courting death!


    The onlookers were all struck with fear, until another army appeared in the distance.


    The Marquis of Shaofei from the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty led his troops into Nie Fancheng''s territory. The sky did not descend any thunder punishment. The Marquis of Shaofei led his army boldly inside.


    The Marquis of Shaofei originally belonged to the sixty vanguard forces and had not entered the derived world. Now he could enter, indicating one thing: it was Nie Fancheng''s sky acknowledging the Marquis of Shaofei. Because the Marquis carried the position and fortune of the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, Nie Fancheng''s sky had no reason to stop him.


    Sure enough, the various vanguard troops followed their respective emperors into the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan watched coldly. Beside him, Ao Chuang was slightly excited. It turned out to be just as he had thought. Without aligning himself with Zhong Shan during this time, he wouldn''t have even been able to enter the gates of the Land of Ultimate Bliss, let alone take advantage of the situation.


    "Let''s move! There are still tough battles ahead!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said.


    "Yes!" everyone immediately responded.


    "Zhong Shan!" Nian Yuyou suddenly called out.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "I''m not going. I need to find my master," Nian Yuyou said. She had been silent throughout the journey and now suddenly dered she wouldn''t go.


    Not going? Zhong Shan was slightly surprised, and the others were equally puzzled.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "You... be careful!" Nian Yuyou said, her expression filled with concern.


    "Don''t worry. With so many strong allies by my side, who can hurt me?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    Nian Yuyou bit her lip and said, "You muste out alive!"


    Sensing Nian Yuyou''s unusual emotion, Zhong Shan replied, "Yes, I will. After Ie out, I wille to this valley to find you if you haven''t left by then."


    "Alright," Nian Yuyou nodded, looking at the valley with a smallke.


    Though surprised by her decision, no one questioned it further. Ao Chuang, eager to move forward, had no time for additional queries.


    Leading his army, Zhong Shan and the million Dragon Serpents advanced towards the sky left by Gu Shentong.


    Indeed, this sky did not reject Zhong Shan''s army, allowing them to enter the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    Behind them, a few more individuals risked their lives trying to sneak in, but under the might of the sky, even Imperial Extreme Realm experts were severely injured and forced to retreat.


    The majesty of the sky brooked no offense. Attempting to exploit the heavenly dynasties was no simple task.


    Nian Yuyou stood in the previous valley, watching Zhong Shan''s army enter the Land of Ultimate Bliss, her eyes showing a mix of tenderness and pain.


    "Yuyou!" A highly feminine voice suddenly sounded behind her.


    Hearing the voice, Nian Yuyou''s heart skipped a beat, and the tenderness on her face vanished instantly.


    "Master!" Nian Yuyou turned to face the woman.


    "Why is Zhong Shan still alive?" the woman asked, a hint of dissatisfaction in her eyes.


    "He has two Imperial Extreme Realm experts with him. I couldn''t find an opportunity," Nian Yuyou exined.


    "No opportunity? Come, this time I will oversee as you kill him!" the woman said.


    "Master!" Nian Yuyou eximed, her eyes filled with reluctance.


    "Come!" the womanmanded, leaving no room for opposition.


    "Yes," Nian Yuyou reluctantly nodded, a glimmer of hope in her eyes that the heavens left by the three emperors might stop her master.


    The woman pulled Nian Yuyou and stepped into the sky left by Gu Shentong. To everyone''s surprise, the sky showed no rejection towards these two women from the Longevity Realm, allowing them to enter the Land of Ultimate Bliss freely.

 Chapter 471: The Powerful Clay Bodhisattva

    <h4>Chapter 471: The Powerful y Bodhisattva</h4>


    Zhong Shan led his army into the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    Upon entering, he immediately halted. The destruction of the outer Zen temple had altered their point of entry into the Land of Ultimate Bliss. They were not in the same ce as before, nor were there any signs of the vanguard troops from the other two heavenly dynasties.


    Clearly, although the three entrances were together outside, the exits inside were separate.


    "Zhong Shan, where is what I want?" Hao Meili urgently asked.


    "The location is different. Let me take a look!" Zhong Shan interrupted Hao Meili, scanning the distance.


    The derived Taigu Sacred Capital was slowly moving towards the central Buddhist altar.


    The altar, adorned with endless clouds of merit above and thousands of powerful monks below, resembled the sacred capitals of the heavenly dynasties in grandeur and power.


    "Hahaha, Zhong Shan, thank you for bringing me in. Let''s go!" Ao Chuang suddenlyughed, then ordered, and a million Dragon Serpents followed him quickly away.


    Zhong Shan watched coldly without stopping him.


    "Dragon King, what are you doing?" Hao Meili eximed in surprise.


    But Ao Chuang ignored her, leading the Dragon Serpents away swiftly. It was clear that something within the Land of Ultimate Bliss was of great interest to him, which was the reason for his presence.


    Mingtai Bodhisattva remained silent, standing quietly behind Zhong Tian.


    "Father!" Zhong Tian frowned slightly.


    Zhong Shan ignored him and did not rush in any particr direction. Instead, he carefully examined the Land of Ultimate Bliss before him.


    It was still the same Land of Ultimate Bliss, with countless beams of light descending from the sky and endless mountains and rivers stretching as far as the eye could see. The only recognizablendmark was the distant speck that was the Buddhist altar, surrounded by a golden mountain range.


    As the three sacred capitals descended, the Land of Ultimate Bliss was filled with sacred chanting, yet it was also extremely dangerous.


    To find the ce they had previously stayed, they needed to first identify the Buddhist altar and orient themselves ordingly.


    "Advance!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    The army marched forward, vignt in all directions. The derived Taigu Sacred Capital ttened a path, and any monks who charged at them were quickly cut down, leaving a trail of blood.


    Thus, the Zhong Family Army progressed rtively smoothly.


    Finally, after advancing a certain distance, Zhong Shan could make out the vague shape of the Buddhist altar and the golden mountain range from afar. He identified their location and pinpointed the direction they needed to go.


    "Follow this direction!" Zhong Shan pointed.


    The Zhong Family Army veered away from the main force, taking a different path.


    Meanwhile, the three sacred capitals had already reached near the Buddhist altar, tensions high as they prepared to destroy it and annihte the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas upon it.


    "Taigu Sacred Capital? Xianyang Sacred Capital? Lihuo Sacred Capital? A derived world is still just a derived world. Do you truly intend to collide with my Buddhist altar?"


    From within the Land of Ultimate Bliss, the voice of the Guiyuan Buddha echoed, resonant and filled with authority and defiance.


    "Why not find out?" Ying''s voice suddenly replied.


    Simultaneously, the three sacred capitals charged towards the Buddhist altar.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Three tremendous explosions shook the entire Land of Ultimate Bliss. The force of the collision was immense, sending shockwaves in all directions. Mountains crumbled and copsed under the impact.


    After the initial collision between the three sacred capitals and the Buddhist altar, they returned to their original positions.


    "Guigu, do you truly intend to rebel against the Land of Ultimate Bliss?" the enraged voice of Amitabha Buddha rang out.


    "The lineage of Guigu has always belonged to the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty. When did it be part of your Land of Ultimate Bliss?" a sarcastic voice responded.


    "Hmph, Feng Shui Master, don''t think that without you, our Land of Ultimate Bliss will be without a Feng Shui Master," Jinchan Buddha retorted coldly.


    In the distance, Zhong Shan paid no attention to the sh of the top-tier experts, knowing he couldn''t intervene. His primary objective was to retrieve the Immortal Stele.


    Along their path, there were some obstacles, but the elite forces of the Land of Ultimate Bliss were concentrated around the Buddhist altar. The remaining minor threats were quickly dealt with by Zhong Shan''s army without him needing to intervene.


    Soon, the Zhong Family Army reached their former dwelling ce.


    From afar, they saw eleven Immortal Steles standing there. Hao Meili''s eyes lit up with excitement.


    "Piaoxiang Bodhisattva is dead. All the bodies in the Buddha''s tomb are to be handed over to Mr. Corpse," Zhong Shan ordered directly.


    "Thank you, General!" Mr. Corpse smiled faintly.


    At the Buddhist altar, the confrontation continued.


    "Oh? The Land of Ultimate Bliss still has a Feng Shui Master? Ren Zun? Shen Xiu?" Tian Lao''s voice sounded calm.


    "If you don''t believe it, then see for yourself!" Guiyuan Buddha''s voice suddenly echoed.


    "Boom!"


    The entire Land of Ultimate Bliss resounded with a sudden explosion. Instantly, from the Buddhist altar, infinite white light shot up to the sky. Millions of white beams seemed to illuminate the entire world, causing a blinding sensation to everyone.


    The next moment, the world plunged into darkness, a profound ckness that felt as if the world was on the brink of destruction. Even divine senses couldn''t prate the darkness.


    Subsequently, the entire world of the Land of Ultimate Bliss transformed drastically. It became extraordinarily strange.


    ck and white, ck and white��the world was divided into alternating strips of darkness and light. In the ck regions, nothing could be seen; in the white regions, everything was visible. Yet, in both regions, divine senses couldn''t probe.


    The entire world seemed segmented into stripes, creating a disconcerting effect. Only the area around the Buddhist altar remained golden.


    "General!" Shui Wuhen eximed in surprise, worry evident in his voice.


    "Everyone, be careful. Although the world has transformed into alternating ck and white regions, this can work to our advantage. If you encounter danger, hide in the ck regions. Follow mymands," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen immediately responded.


    The Zhong Family Army, initially disturbed by the massive changes, quickly steadied under Zhong Shan''smand.


    "Hao Meili, there are Buddhist restrictions on the Immortal Steles. Be cautious and see if you can remove them," Zhong Shan said.


    "Got it!" Hao Meili, her eyes gleaming with determination, nodded as she gazed at the Immortal Steles.


    In the distance, at the center of the ck and white world, amidst the golden light, the three sacred capitals suddenly fell silent. Everyone grew serious.


    Derived world, another derived world!


    The derived world of the Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    The central Buddhist altar transformed abruptly, splitting into three identical altars. Each one faced a sacred capital.


    Three against three��Amitabha Buddha, Guiyuan Buddha, and Jinchan Buddha each sat on an altar, facing a sacred capital.


    "Derived world? Buddhist altar?" Tian Lao''s voice rang out suddenly.


    Three authentic Buddhist altars stood firm, with two others that had sprouted and grown identical, unyielding to the three great celestial dynasties.


    At the center of the three altars, a golden peak suddenly emerged. Atop this peak stood a man in a ck robe, his entire body wrapped in the dark fabric, obscuring his appearance.


    "Who are you?" Tian Lao asked coldly.


    "Shenxiu? Impossible. Shenxiu belongs to the Taishui Dynasty. He would never aid the Pure Land of Bliss," said the geomancer from the Sacred City of Li Huo, equally cold.


    "Ren Zun? I''m familiar with Ren Zun. It can''t be him either," echoed a voice with eerie yin-yang tones from the Sacred City of Xianyang.


    "Heaven, Earth, Man, God, Ghost. You are not among our five paths. Who exactly are you?" the geomancer from Li Huo Sacred City questioned again.


    Heaven, Earth, Man, God, Ghost��Tian Lao, Earth Master, Ren Zun, Shenxiu, Ghost Valley.


    The sudden appearance of this mysterious feng shui master, who didn''t belong to any of the five paths, was baffling. In the vast expanse of the divinend, only these five paths existed. How could there be another feng shui master? And this one, single-handedly, defying three grand feng shui masters? Who exactly was this person?


    "I know!" Tian Lao suddenly eximed in shock.


    "Tian Lao, do you recognize him?" Both Earth Master and Ghost Valley inquired simultaneously.


    "It''s you! The one from the Great Light Dynasty, the Rotating Wheel Hall of the Nether Pce. It''s you!" Tian Lao''s eyes widened as he shouted.


    "Your memory serves you well, Tian Lao," the man in the ck robe said calmly.


    "Who exactly are you?" The three great feng shui masters all fixed their gazes on the man in ck at the center.


    Although the man in ck stood alone atop the peak, he was in no danger. The three Buddhas surrounded him, ensuring his safety.


    "My name is Mud Buddha. Do you remember now?" The man in ck smiled faintly.


    "Mud Buddha? Impossible! Your lineage was extinguished ten thousand years ago!" Tian Lao eximed in disbelief.


    "There''s no point in talking. Come, let''s see if your derived world is stronger, or if mine is. Among the three altars, can you distinguish the real one from the derived ones?" Mud Buddha smiled, his tone indifferent.


    "Great Luo Starry Sky Array!" Gu Shentong''s soft chant caused the stars above his head to shine brightly, emitting countless beams of starlight. Suddenly, a vast green light descended from the heavens, not intersecting at numerous nodes like Tian Lao''s past disy, but instead surging in all directions like an unstoppable storm, targeting one of the altars. The green light, which froze everything in its path as if time itself had halted, caused buildings to rise from the ground and madly crash towards the altar.


    Simrly, the Sacred Cities of Xianyang and Li Huo also each crashed towards the other two altars.


    "Boom!"


    "Boom!"


    "Boom!"


    The entire Pure Land of Bliss shook violently under the intense collisions, making it difficult for anyone to stand firm.


    After this earth-shattering upheaval, the houses surrounding the Immortal Stele Square copsed, revealing arge number of warrior monks hidden within. They had clearly been lying in ambush, waiting for the right moment to strike, but the sudden transformation of the Pure Land of Bliss had destroyed the array meant to conceal their identities.


    "Formation Three, attack!" Shui Wuhen roared, swiftlymanding his troops to charge.


    Three thousand monks from Daming Monastery, under Zhong Tian''s orders, surged forward.


    Ming Tai Bodhisattva remained focused on the distant altar, his expression filled with solemnity and reverence.

 Chapter 472: The Joyful Buddha

    <h4>Chapter 472: The Joyful Buddha</h4>


    The ground quaked and the heavens trembled as the three sacred cities collided fiercely with the three Buddhist altars. The immense force not only changed the color of the sky and earth but also generated a myriad of colorful energies around them. The sheer impact made these energies chaotic and frenzied, emitting a dazzling array of lights.


    These multicolored lights enveloped the center of the Pure Land of Bliss, rendering it invisible. Only the endless tremors and powerful vibrations could be felt, causing the surrounding space to wrinkle slightly. In ces where the energy was particrly intense, small cracks appeared in the space, only to vanish as quickly as they formed.


    Above the multicolored sphere, the cloud sea of merit belonging to the Pure Land of Bliss churned ceaselessly, vast and boundless.


    Ming Tai Bodhisattva''s gaze was fixed on the cloud sea of merit, his eyes filled with gravity and determination.


    "Master, look at that boundless merit," Ming Tai Bodhisattva suddenly spoke.


    "What about it?" Zhong Tian asked, puzzled.


    "Most of it originally belonged to our Daming Monastery," Ming Tai Bodhisattva took a deep breath and then fell silent.


    Elsewhere, Mr. Corpse headed to the Buddha Tombs to excavate the corpses of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, intending to take these bodies back and refine them into even more powerful zombies.


    Shui Wuhenmanded the army and the monks of Daming Monastery as they ughtered the warrior monks of the Pure Land of Bliss.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan and Hao Meili arrived at the Immortal Stele, contemting how to activate it.


    The Immortal Stele was located in the White World, thus exposing everyone present.


    "Hao Meili, see if you can retrieve it," Zhong Shan said, pointing at the Immortal Stele.


    Far away, in a dark region, Nian Youyou and her master stood atop a mountain peak, hidden from anyone''s view.


    "Master!" Nian Youyou''s eyes showed a hint of reluctance.


    "What''s wrong? We''re already here, and you still can''t bring yourself to do it? Haha, good, such deep feelings. Once you kill him, you''ll surely break through again. It won''t take a thousand years, no, a few hundred years will be enough for you to be immortal," the woman said, pleased with Nian Youyou''s progress.


    "Master, I really don''t want to kill him," Nian Youyou finally couldn''t hold back her tears.


    "No, you must. You established this rtionship with him precisely for today, to kill him," the woman''s eyes turned cold.


    "Master!" Nian Youyou pleaded in distress.


    "Do it. This is the peerless bow I specially prepared for you. I know your archery skills. You can definitely kill him with one shot. Just shoot him dead, and it will be over. We can leave once it''s done," the woman said, handing over a pitch-ck divine bow, continuously coaxing Nian Youyou.


    Nian Youyou had never felt such sorrow before, but the peerless bow was already in her hands. Trembling, she gripped the bow, her face a mask of pain.


    Amid the multicolored lights, the three sacred cities shed with the three Buddhist altars.


    "Impossible! How can this be? All three altars are real?" Earth Master''s voice rang out, tinged with disbelief.


    "They are real. Mud Buddha, your reputation is well deserved!" Ghost Valley eximed with a hint of admiration.


    "Well deserved? Hmph, Earth Master, Ghost Valley, let''s switch ces. The Taigu Sacred City will deal with the altar where Jinchan is," Tian Lao said coldly.


    Unable to make any headway with the three altars, the suggestion of switching positions was met without objection. The three sacred cities slowly rotated, changing their respective targets among the altars.


    "Rise!" Tian Lao roared.


    The three sacred cities collided with the Buddhist altars once more.


    "Boom!"


    "Boom!"


    The sounds of the collisions reverberated, causing the Pure Land of Bliss to tremble uncontrobly. The entire world seemed to be extremely fragile.


    "Crack!"


    At some point, a strange noise caught everyone''s attention. They all turned to look at Jinchan''s altar. Suddenly, a crack appeared on the altar, a massive fissure caused by the collision with the Taigu Sacred City, making it seem as though it could copse at any moment.


    "Impossible! How can this be?" Jinchan eximed in shock.


    "He has something of yours, something that can bypass your defenses. What do they have?" Mud Buddha asked Jinchan Buddha at the right moment.


    Just then, Jinchan Buddha saw the cassock trampled underfoot by Gu Shentong.


    "The Purple Cotton Cassock? Zhong Shan? It''s you again, ruining the grand ns of the Pure Land of Bliss!" Jinchan Buddha suddenly shouted in anger.


    Zhong Shan, it was Zhong Shan again. Now, the most hated person among the Buddhas was Zhong Shan. Not long ago, when all the information was pieced together, it was discovered that Zhong Shan was the one connecting the three great celestial dynasties. By acting as an envoy, he linked the Great Li Dynasty with the White Industry, leading to an alliance between the Great Luo Dynasty and the Great Qin Dynasty.


    Furthermore, Phoenix Supreme was originally preparing to ascend and wouldn''t have participated in this battle. However, because Zhong Shan broke Phoenix Supreme''s Nine Heavens Phoenix Cry, she couldn''t ascend for a while and thus had the time to join the battle. He even recently broke Guiyuan Buddha''s Silent Zen. Now, once again, because of him, a fatal w appeared in the derived world.


    Zhong Shan was now deeply hated by the three Buddhas.


    "There''s no point in talking. Jinchan, you''d better not stay at the altar anymore. Otherwise, my derived world will be broken sooner orter," Mud Buddha said calmly.


    Jinchan nodded grudgingly.


    At this moment, the three great saints simultaneously fell silent, all looking towards Jinchan, as if expecting something.


    Suddenly, another bald monk appeared beside Jinchan, with a halo of merit above his head and a somewhat lewd expression on his face. He sat in Jinchan Buddha''s previous position, while Jinchan Buddha stepped down to sit among the Bodhisattvas and Arhats, chanting sutras together.


    "Joyful Buddha, you finally came out!" Gu Shentong said, his eyes cold.


    "You really aren''t dead!" Nie Fancheng''s eyes were also filled with coldness.


    Not far from Nie Fancheng, Wu Jiutian''s eyes were zing as she stared at the newly appeared bald monk.


    "Today, you will pay with your life for Peacock King and Peacock Empress!" Wu Jiutian said, her voice burning with anger.


    Peacock King, Peacock Empress?


    It turned out that the people Gu Shentong, Nie Fancheng, and Wu Jiutian wanted revenge for were someone named Peacock Empress, who had died at the hands of the suddenly appeared Buddha.


    The fourth Buddha of the Pure Land of Bliss��Joyful Buddha!


    "To think you still care about her, forcing me out like this. Why go to such lengths?" Joyful Buddha said with a wry smile.


    "I said I would use your head to honor Hou''er. I want the Pure Land of Bliss to be buried with you!" Gu Shentong said coldly.


    "Hou''er''s Five-Colored Divine Light was invincible. It must have been you, this vile Buddha, who used despicable tricks. Today, I will ensure your soul is annihted," Nie Fancheng said, his voice icy.


    "Then let''s see!" Joyful Buddha''s eyes turned cold.


    With Joyful Buddha now presiding over the altar, the previously visible cracks vanishedpletely, making the altar as solid as ever, without any ws.


    Gu Shentong and Nie Fancheng, upon finding their nemesis, renewed their fierce attacks. The collision of worlds was vast and unending, causing countless storms to erupt throughout the Pure Land of Bliss, making movement difficult for everyone around.


    "Hmph, your fortunes are mere derivatives; they can never truly affect us. I possess ten trillion merits, ten trillion genuine merits of the Pure Land of Bliss, standing invincible," Joyful Buddha proimed forcefully.


    Indeed, the fortunes of the derivative world were merely imitations. Though they mimicked true fortunes, their effectiveness was somewhat diminished.


    However, the three great saints had fought their way to this point; how could they give up now? The booming continued unabated, with the determination to grind down the four Buddhas within.


    At the Immortal Stele:


    "Master!" Ming Tai Bodhisattva suddenly called out to Zhong Tian.


    "What''s wrong, Patriarch?" Zhong Tian asked, slightly puzzled.


    "I may not be hereter. I hope you can carry forward the legacy of Daming Monastery," Ming Tai Bodhisattva said suddenly.


    "You may not be here? What do you mean?" Zhong Tian felt an ominous premonition.


    With a flip of his hand, Ming Tai Bodhisattva produced an exquisite small tower. With a wave of his other hand, another identical small tower appeared, though this second tower was a replica, shimmering faintly with a hint of illusion.


    "This is the ancient treasure of Daming Monastery, the Spirit-Residing Tower. Master, please integrate it into your body," Ming Tai Bodhisattva instructed.


    Though slightly puzzled, Zhong Tian began the integration process. It seemed that the Spirit-Residing Tower recognized him as the master, merging into his body almost instantly.


    "Don''t worry, Master. As the head of Daming Monastery, it only recognizes you. Though you haven''t fully integrated it yet, you can do so gradually over time," Ming Tai Bodhisattva exined.


    "Yes," Zhong Tian nodded.


    "It''s time to reim the merit belonging to Daming Monastery," Ming Tai Bodhisattva said, holding the replica Spirit-Residing Tower.


    He then soared into the sky, diving into the replica Spirit-Residing Tower and flying towards the vast sea of merit in the distance.


    The replica Spirit-Residing Tower began to erge, growing terrifyingly huge. The base of the tower suddenly emitted an immense suction, drawing in the boundless merits from the sky.


    "This is not good!" Zhong Tian realized what was happening.


    Although he didn''t go himself, within his body''s Spirit-Residing Tower, new things suddenly appeared��merits, vast amounts of merits transferred by Ming Tai Bodhisattva.


    "Father, Patriarch is seizing merit for Daming Monastery," Zhong Tian said urgently to Zhong Shan, his eyes filled with anxiety.


    "Your patriarch is sacrificing himself for the greater good, truly a high virtue monk. Let him be. If you reach the peak someday, you can venture into the underworld to retrieve his soul and rebuild his golden body," Zhong Shan sighed softly.


    "Yes!" Zhong Tian clenched his fists and nodded firmly.

 Chapter 473: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Notorious Past

    <h4>Chapter 473: Zhong Shan''s Notorious Past</h4>


    Above the sea of merit in the Pure Land of Bliss, a towering treasure pagoda suddenly appeared.


    The pagoda had nine stories, unadorned and simple, yet it emanated an indescribable and mysterious power��the power to devour merit!


    Merit was intangible and invisible. Even when it took form, it was untouchable by ordinary people. The four Buddhas of the Pure Land of Bliss only knew how to gather and distribute merit, not how to seize it. However, this nine-story pagoda defied their understanding, brazenly stealing boundless merit.


    What on earth was this thing?


    From afar, Zhong Shan and his son stared in disbelief at this scene. This was merely a split of the Spirit-Residing Tower, not its main body, which was inside Zhong Tian.


    The Spirit-Residing Tower, with its split as the skeleton and the Bodhisattva as its flesh, possessed such a terrifying ability.


    Not only Zhong Shan, but almost everyone in the Pure Land of Bliss was now fixated on the awe-inspiring pagoda. The base of the tower resembled a vortex, voraciously absorbing the endless merit, swirling it like a giant whale sucking in water, extracting boundless merit from the Pure Land of Bliss.


    "Boom!"


    Thunder rumbled, dark clouds gathered, and the entire Pure Land of Bliss seemed on the brink of cataclysmic change as the merit was forcibly seized, threatening the world''s copse.


    Absorb! Absorb! Absorb!


    Feeling the increase in merit within the Spirit-Residing Tower inside him, Zhong Tian clenched his fists, his eyes bloodshot.


    "Master, I will not disappoint you," Zhong Tian vowed silently.


    Finally, when half of the Pure Land''s merit had been siphoned away by the Spirit-Residing Tower, the powerful beings within the light sphere below noticed it.


    The first to notice was Guiyuan Buddha.


    "What''s happening? Why is the merit decreasing?" Guiyuan Buddha eximed in shock.


    The other three Buddhas were equally rmed to find the merit infusing them was rapidly diminishing. The merit of the Pure Land of Bliss was being drained at an astonishing rate.


    But would the three great saints allow the Buddhas to investigate? The sacred cities continued to crash into the altars with relentless force, not letting up even for a moment. Each collision was so powerful that even the strong beings within the altars turned pale. Such impacts were unbearable even for those at the Heavenly Extreme Realm over a prolonged period.


    "Jinchan, find out what''s happening!" Joyful Buddha shouted.


    The diminishing merit posed a severe threat. If it decreased to a certain point, the altars would lose their divine power, rendering the derived world meaningless. The Pure Land of Bliss would be doomed.


    Due to the turbulence created by the powerful collisions, it was impossible to extend divine senses. However, for those at the Heavenly Extreme Realm, many mystical techniques existed.


    Jinchan Buddha waved his hand towards the sky, and a light screen appeared above him, disying the outside scene.


    Instantly, the enormous nine-story pagoda came into view.


    Everyone''s gaze fixated on the pagoda.


    How could this be? What kind of object was this?


    "It''s that thing! It''s dissolving our boundless merit," Amitabha Buddha roared in fury.


    Dissolving? They couldn''t fathom the idea of seizing merit, as it seemed too unreal, unheard of. Dissolving was something they could ept.


    "Destroy it!" Joyful Buddha shouted.


    "Understood!" Jinchan Buddha responded immediately.


    However, would the three great saints outside let them seed? Seeing the nine-story pagoda dissolve the merit was a godsend.


    As the struggle intensified, Zhong Tian felt the immense responsibilityid upon his shoulders. The fate of Daming Monastery and the legacy of his master depended on the sess of this bold endeavor.


    The collisions continued.


    "Boom, boom, boom..."


    The intense vibrations grew stronger and stronger. As the merit continued to vanish, the Buddhist altars found it increasingly difficult to resist, with cracks appearing in several ces.


    Now, with three Buddhas presiding over the three altars, only Jinchan Buddha was free to act.


    "Ha!"


    Jinchan Buddha unleashed a massive handprint.


    "Bang!"


    The power of the handprint was instantly obliterated by the collision between the altar and the sacred city.


    As the merit dwindled, Jinchan Buddha could no longer afford to hesitate. He retrieved the seven-colored Buddhist beads bestowed upon him by the ancient Buddha. Activating them, he was enveloped in a protective rainbow aura and shot skyward.


    "Boom, boom, boom..."


    The forceful collisions impacted Jinchan Buddha, and despite the protection of the seven-colored beads, he took severe damage, his face turning pale. Nevertheless, he broke through the intense collisions, emerging from the chaos.


    The moment he emerged, Jinchan''s eyes widened as he delivered a ferocious palm strike.


    "Boom!"


    A strike from a Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivator was terrifying, possessing world-destroying power. The sky wrinkled, with faint space cracks appearing.


    "Bang!"


    The replica Spirit-Residing Tower, along with Ming Tai Bodhisattva inside, was finally shattered by this devastating strike.


    Ming Tai Bodhisattva sacrificed himself for the endless merit of Daming Monastery, falling to Jinchan Buddha. From a distance, Zhong Tian clenched his fists so tightly that they bled, staring coldly at Jinchan Buddha.


    At this moment, the three great saints suddenly stopped their assaults, observing the scene with cold eyes.


    Someone hade to help? Who could it be?


    The destruction of the replica Spirit-Residing Tower left the four Buddhas shocked. What was that thing? They were filled with tension and anger, wondering who else could be involved.


    Seeing the merit that had almostpletely disappeared, the Buddhas were furious. Merit that took thousands of years to gather��gone in an instant. Who could it be?


    "Joyful, find out where this came from," Guiyuan Buddha shouted.


    Joyful Buddha retrieved the fragments of Ming Tai Bodhisattva''s body, pointing to the sky. A stream of air shot towards the distance.


    This was a method to trace back the origin of the items.


    The stream of air surged towards Zhong Shan''s location, kicking up clouds of dust.


    All the powerful beings turned their gazes towards that direction. Who could it be? Who unleashed the tower?


    The Buddhas'' eyes were filled with murderous intent, while the saints looked on with surprise.


    As the air current finally pointed towards Zhong Shan and his son, everyone''s expressions became vivid.


    "Zhong Shan!"


    Jinchan Buddha''s eyes burned with rage, his voice filled with a hatred so deep it seemed to strip flesh from bones.


    Again, it was Zhong Shan.


    The four Buddhas'' eyes were filled with boundless hatred. Once again, he had ruined the grand ns of the Pure Land of Bliss.


    Clearly, the notorious Zhong Shan had been misunderstood as the culprit once more.


    While the four Buddhas were seething with hatred, the three great saints felt no animosity��if anything, they were grateful to Zhong Shan.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan felt a powerful force suddenly lift him, and in an instant, he vanished from everyone''s sight, reappearing in the heart of the battlefield.


    Jinchan Buddha, along with Guiyuan, Amitabha, and Joyful Buddhas, all sought Zhong Shan''s death. Even a thousand ughters would not suffice to vent their anger; they wanted his soul consigned to Avici Hell, never to be reborn.


    "How dare you!" Gu Shentong roared.


    Immediately, the three great saints, along with Wu Jiutian and other powerful beings, intervened.


    A hum resonated as Zhong Shan was suspended in the center of the battlefield, encased in a spherical light. The space around the sphere rippled like water, undting incessantly.


    Both the Buddhas and the saints were vying for Zhong Shan. The saints'' immense power was pushing Zhong Shan towards Taigu Sacred City, while the four Buddhas were pulling him towards the altar.


    Inside the light sphere, Zhong Shan, though unable to personally experience the might of the Heavenly Extreme Realm powerhouses, was immobilized. His entire body felt as if it was bound. He knew that someone was protecting him; otherwise, the Buddhas would have torn him apart.


    "Zhong Shan, you''ve repeatedly foiled our ns for the Pure Land of Bliss. Today, you must die," Guiyuan Buddha suddenly shouted.


    "Die? I''ve ruined your ns? Hahaha, a bald monk spewing nonsense. When have I ever ruined your ns? The Silent Zen? If you hadn''t forced it, would it have broken on its own? However, I advise you to release me now. Otherwise, I cannot predict what I might do," Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    After Zhong Shan spoke, everyone felt a strange sensation. Whether they were Buddhas, saints, supremes, or princes, kings, and bodhisattvas from various realms, they all found Zhong Shan''s demeanor surreal.


    Zhong Shan, clearly a piece of meat on the chopping block, unable to move, still dared to speak boldly?


    Even the ministers of the celestial dynasties couldn''t help but marvel. Look at hisposure, his audacity��it was no wonder he rose to the rank of duke so quickly.


    The four Buddhas nearly found his wordsughable.


    "Facing death, you still talk tough," Joyful Buddha said coldly.


    In reality, the Buddhas knew that if they risked an injury andunched a desperate attack to kill Zhong Shan, they might be vulnerable to a counterstrike from the saints or supremes. But who would willingly take such a risk?


    "So, you''re forcing my hand again?" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, people were either amused or thought he had lost his mind. Immobilized, what could he possibly do? Even if he were freed, a single fart from a Buddha would crush him.


    The three great saints remained silent because Zhong Shan was from the Great Luo Dynasty. If Gu Shentong didn''t speak, the others naturally wouldn''t. Gu Shentong knew Zhong Shan well and knew he wouldn''t joke about his life. He watched with curiosity.


    "Hahaha, I''m forcing you. What of it? You, an ant, have ruined our grand ns for the Pure Land of Bliss multiple times. Now, your time hase," Joyful Buddha said, his face darkening.


    Zhong Shan smiled coldly. "Heaven''s sins can be forgiven; self-inflicted sins cannot. Mud Buddha, do you still wish to oppose me?"


    Zhong Shan''s gaze focused intently on Mud Buddha standing atop the central peak.

 Chapter 474: Fate鈥檚 Calamity

    <h4>Chapter 474: Fate''s Cmity</h4>


    "Heaven''s sins can be forgiven; self-inflicted ones cannot. Mud Buddha, do you still wish to oppose me?" Zhong Shan''s words exposed the identity of Mud Buddha at the center. Though everyone knew he was Mud Buddha, how could Zhong Shan, who seemingly had no prior knowledge, recognize him so easily?


    Zhong Shan had learned from his past experiences. This time, he had focused on the feng shui master of the Pure Land of Bliss from the beginning and recognized Mud Buddha immediately.


    Mud Buddha? Zhong Shan knew Mud Buddha?


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan in astonishment. The monks of the Pure Land of Bliss suddenly had a bad feeling, while the three great saints smiled slightly, especially Gu Shentong.


    Watching Zhong Shan, unable to move, Gu Shentong was filled with admiration. Zhong Shan kept surprising him, resembling his younger self.


    Mud Buddha? That formidable Mud Buddha, who single-handedly resisted the three great feng shui masters, had an extremely powerful feng shui ability. Could Zhong Shan''s mere words really defeat him?


    Mud Buddha remained silent, even as Zhong Shan pointed at him.


    Taking a deep breath, Mud Buddha spoke, "Four Buddhas, I owe Zhong Shan a promise. I must take my leave. However, since I have taken your things, I will not withdraw this feng shui array. Farewell!"


    With that, Mud Buddha''s figure flickered and vanished from everyone''s sight.


    Mud Buddha left? Without a feng shui master to maintain it, could the feng shui array still function? Even if it was powerful, it couldn''t withstand the erosion of time, especially with three other feng shui masters eyeing it.


    He was really gone! Everyone felt a sense of disbelief.


    The people of the three celestial dynasties were overjoyed. Without Mud Buddha, the feng shui array wouldn''tst long.


    Gu Shentong sighed with admiration. Ying had a curious smile, Nie Fancheng frowned at Zhong Shan, and Wu Jiutian looked puzzled.


    "Heaven''s sins can be forgiven; self-inflicted ones cannot!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    Indeed, if they hadn''t troubled Zhong Shan, if they hadn''t forced him, there wouldn''t be so many ''happy events.''


    The four Buddhas now stared at Zhong Shan with bloodshot eyes, filled with rage and frustration. Zhong Shan, once again, had be their nemesis.


    Without Mud Buddha, the three altars couldn''t hold out much longer. Soon, the three great sacred cities would destroy them, bringing the Pure Land of Bliss to its ultimate crisis.


    Could Zhong Shan really be the nemesis of the Pure Land of Bliss? With his cultivation at the Conjoined Stage, he had repeatedly thwarted their grand ns.


    "Roar!"


    The four Buddhas were furious, roaring towards the heavens, their eyes fixed on Zhong Shan.


    "Wait!" Guiyuan Buddha suddenly eximed, the malice in his eyes dissipating.


    The other three Buddhas looked at Guiyuan Buddha.


    "Zhong Shan... he is the fate cmity of the Pure Land of Bliss!" Guiyuan Buddha said.


    Upon hearing this, Guiyuan Buddha took a sharp breath, and the other three Buddhas looked at Zhong Shan in horror.


    A fate cmity is a destined disaster for any person or entity (like a celestial dynasty or a sacrednd). No matter how prosperous, there is always a cmity waiting, a predestined disaster called fate''s cmity. The Pure Land of Bliss was immensely powerful, but nothingsts forever. A fate cmity signifies the peak of prosperity and the beginning of decline, something even the strongest cannot resist, no matter how minor the cmity seems.


    "The fate cmity must be extinguished, or it will be your end! It must be destroyed!"


    Throughout history, many celestial dynasties or sacrednds, no matter how prosperous, fell once they encountered their destined fate cmity. A fate cmity could be an object, weather, terrain, a beast, or even a person. No matter how weak, if it was their destiny, their appearance would spell doom, as if meeting a nemesis that rendered them utterly powerless.


    Was Zhong Shan the fate cmity of the Pure Land of Bliss? In an instant, everyone''s eyes were fixed on him.


    The fate cmity of the foremost sacrednd of Shenzhou? This Zhong Shan? It seemed usible. Everything appeared to validate this fact. When the fate cmity appears, the sacrednd perishes.


    Zhong Shan had heard of the concept of a fate cmity before.


    "Release me now, and I can overlook past grievances!" Zhong Shan proimed boldly.


    Such brazen words, if heard by outsiders, would surely cause them to break out in a cold sweat. Was this something someone in the Conjoined Stage should be saying? Yet now, no one in the Pure Land of Bliss dared to underestimate Zhong Shan. Perhaps Zhong Shan posed no threat to others, but if he was indeed the fate cmity of the Pure Land, even a sneeze from him could cause significant damage.


    "No, he must die. As long as Zhong Shan lives, the Pure Land of Bliss will never know peace," Jinchan Buddha suddenly roared, his eyes wide with fury.


    Ignoring any other opinions, Jinchan Buddha charged towards Zhong Shan, the seven-colored Buddhist beads in his hand maximized to their fullest power. The treasure of the ancient Buddha, a true celestial artifact, surely, this would be enough to kill Zhong Shan?


    Once Jinchan Buddha decided, the other three Buddhas naturally supported him fully, blocking the saints and others with all their might.


    "Hmph!"


    The three great saints snorted coldly and struck out in unison. Even Phoenix Supreme and the feng shui masters joined the attack, aiming at Jinchan Buddha.


    "Boom!"


    Thebined attack of these peerless experts was terrifying. Jinchan Buddha''s trajectory through the sky left behind a massive ck hole, created by the collective strike of these powerful beings.


    It was so strong that even space itself was torn open, therge hole frantically sucking in everything around it.


    Just when everyone thought Jinchan Buddha was defeated, a seven-colored light emerged from the ck hole. Jinchan Buddha, bleeding profusely from his mouth, forced himself out despite his severe injuries. The seven-colored Buddhist beads in his hand were pushed to their utmost power, and he hurled them fiercely at Zhong Shan.


    Knowing Zhong Shan was the fate cmity of the Pure Land of Bliss, there could be no reservation. The strike had to be the strongest, or else if Zhong Shan survived, the Pure Land would be truly doomed.


    The seven-colored Buddhist beads hurtled towards Zhong Shan, tearing huge gashes in the surrounding space.


    Although Jinchan Buddha hadn''t fully refined the beads, a celestial artifact was still a celestial artifact, far beyond the power of ordinary tools.


    The beads were about to reach Zhong Shan. Everyone knew it was over. Zhong Shan was doomed. He was sure to die.


    Even Gu Shentong found himself helpless. A full-force strike from a Heavenly Extreme Realm,bined with a celestial artifact, was unstoppable. If Zhong Shan didn''t die from this, where was the justice?


    In the distance, Nian Youyou covered her mouth, eyes filled with terror. Her master frowned, a sh of anger in her eyes. Zhong Shan couldn''t be killed by Jinchan Buddha; if he had to die, it should be by Nian Youyou''s hand.


    Mr. Corpse and others stopped what they were doing, all anxiously watching Zhong Shan, their eyes full of concern. Zhong Tian soared into the sky, trying to rush over.


    As the seven-colored Buddhist beads closed in on Zhong Shan, everyone held their breath, awaiting the oue.


    But it was toote. In the split second between life and death, the seven-colored Buddhist beads had already descended upon Zhong Shan. Even an Emperor Extreme Realm, no, a Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivator would be severely injured by such an attack. Could Zhong Shan escape?


    Everyone watched the seven-colored Buddhist beads, knowing they were one of the most powerful treasures in the world. It seemed inevitable that Zhong Shan would die.


    Zhong Shan looked coldly at the beads, his emotionsplex. Despite the impending doom, the Red Luan Pink Lotus at his forehead remained undisturbed, suggesting that even facing this celestial artifact, he would remain unharmed. How could this be? Countless past experiences assured him he would be fine.


    The beads were about to smash into Zhong Shan''s head. Everyone believed his death was certain. Even Jinchan Buddha, despite his severe injuries, wore a sinister smile. The Buddhas below clenched their fists, watching intently.


    "Hmm..."


    Suddenly, something appeared above Zhong Shan''s head.


    Though it wasn''t clear what it was, the sight of Zhong Shan still being able to resist at the brink of death caused a dramatic change in everyone''s expressions. The Buddhas felt an ominous foreboding.


    From that object, a vast aura erupted, radiating in all directions. Even the fortunes above the heads of the three great saints and the merit above the altars trembled.


    It was a piece of ck jade talisman.


    Among the onlookers, only one person recognized it��Ying, the Emperor of the Great Qin. When Ying saw the ck jade talisman, his eyes widened in surprise. That was originally his treasure, yet now it was in Zhong Shan''s possession?


    The ck jade talisman had autonomously activated.


    The talisman soared skyward, directly colliding with the seven-colored Buddhist beads.


    The seven-colored Buddhist beads were not fully refined, and neither was the ck jade talisman. However, the ck jade talisman seemed even more sentient than the beads.


    "Boom!"


    The ck jade talisman knocked the seven-colored Buddhist beads back towards Jinchan Buddha, reflecting all the beads'' power. The collision caused an enormous explosion, creating a colossal ck hole three timesrger than before.


    The ck jade talisman stuck to the seven-colored Buddhist beads, and the beads stuck to Jinchan Buddha.


    The talisman seemed to have identified the culprit, aiming to destroy or seal Jinchan Buddhapletely.


    Jinchan Buddha felt a power transmitted through the beads, making his entire body increasingly rigid, as if he were about to be sealed.


    "No!" Jinchan Buddha roared, his eyes bloodshot, a manic savagery erupting from his gaze.

 Chapter 475: The Powerful Artifact

    <h4>Chapter 475: The Powerful Artifact</h4>


    "Nooooooo��!" Golden Cicada Buddha''s eyes turned blood red as he screamed, his expression twisted with madness and savagery.


    Golden Cicada Buddha couldn''t believe it. The artifact in his hand was a celestial artifact, the Seven-colored Buddha Beads. Yet, it was unable to withstand this bizarre talisman. Was Zhong Shan truly the nemesis of Elysium? This was fate, a cmity of fate. No matter how powerful the item he brought forth, Zhong Shan always had a way to counter it.


    Impossible! How could he have such a thing?


    To his horror, Golden Cicada Buddha realized that soon he and his Seven-colored Buddha Beads would be sealed by Zhong Shan. It couldn''t be happening. Why was it like this?


    Desperation took hold. Only death awaited him if this continued. If he had to die, he would drag Zhong Shan down with him. A frenzied gleam shed in Golden Cicada Buddha''s eyes.


    "Roar��!"


    Golden Cicada Buddha exerted all his power, channeling it entirely into the Seven-colored Buddha Beads. He aimed to destroy the ck Jade Talisman by detonating the beads, hoping the massive explosion would obliterate the talisman.


    When refining the Seven-colored Buddha Beads, Golden Cicada Buddha had linked his spirit with them. Their destruction would severely injure him, but it would also involve Zhong Shan in the devastation caused by the talisman''s destruction. Even if Zhong Shan didn''t die, he would be close to it.


    "Not good!" Nearly everyone saw the madness in Golden Cicada Buddha''s eyes and began to brace themselves.


    "Boom��!"


    A deafening explosion, a hundred times louder than before, erupted from the Seven-colored Buddha Beads. The power was immense, creating a ck hole a hundred timesrger than the previous one, engulfing everything.


    The three great saints exerted all their might to shield their respective holy cities. The three Feng Shui masters strained to sustain the derived world, resisting the celestial artifact''s self-destruction''s powerful shockwave. The entire Elysium shook violently, as if on the verge of copse.


    "Father��!" Zhong Tian screamed in terror. But amidst the cacophony in Elysium, his voice was inaudible.


    Nian Youyou''s eyes were filled with anger and concern.


    Was Zhong Shan dead?


    The saints and the assembled Buddhas watched closely. At thest moment, they all saw the Seven-colored Buddha Beads explode, shattering into pieces. Simultaneously, the ck Jade Talisman also disintegrated into powder in the massive explosion. Celestial artifacts, both the beads and the talisman, were gone.


    Everyone showed a look of regret.


    The ck hole began to shrink rapidly. Although the three holy cities managed to resist, it was an arduous struggle. However, the Buddha altar without a Feng Shui master had reverted to its original state. From the initial three altars, only one remained, with the three Buddhas leading all the Bodhisattvas and Arhats to their feet, staring at the vanishing ck hole.


    Golden Cicada Buddha wasn''t dead, but he was gravely injured, lying on the altar, covered in blood. This time, he had suffered a tremendous loss. But as long as Zhong Shan was dead, it would all be worth it.


    To everyone''s surprise, Zhong Shan was still alive, encased in the same light sphere from before. This sphere had been reinforced by eight Celestial Realm experts,yered with prohibitions to pull Zhong Shan apart.


    The reinforcement by eight Celestial Realm experts was not something that could be easily ovee by the explosion''s aftershock.


    Whoosh!


    Zhong Shan was pulled back by an ancient divine power.


    "It''s impossible! How can you still be alive? You can''t be alive!" Golden Cicada Buddhay in a pool of blood, unable to believe that Zhong Shan was unharmed.


    How could this be?


    Not only the Buddha, but all the saints also looked at Zhong Shan. After Gu Shentong lifted the restriction, Zhong Shan was indeed unharmed. The supposed mutual destruction of the ck Jade Talisman had not urred. The talisman had shattered into powder, so why was Zhong Shan unaffected?


    No one knew that Zhong Shan had never refined the ck Jade Talisman. It wasn''t that he didn''t want to; he simplycked the capability. The talisman had chosen him as its master on its own, so there was no spiritual link to cause him harm.


    "My apologies, Emperor of Great Qin. That ck Jade Talisman was something I happened upon at your residencest time. I intended to return it to you, but it was lost in the earlier explosion," Zhong Shan said, addressing Ying in the distance.


    Zhong Shan''s words served multiple purposes. First, by admitting to taking Ying''s item, he publicly apologized, making it unlikely for Ying to pursue the matter further. Second, he announced to everyone that the artifact was gone, deterring anyone froming after him. If anyone wanted the artifact, they would have to seek out Ying.


    "The artifact? I acquired it by chance as well. Since it''s gone, it''s gone. For your primary role in this campaign against Elysium, I won''t hold you ountable," Ying replied magnanimously, ncing at Zhong Shan with mild curiosity.


    Zhong Shan exhaled deeply, feeling a weight lifted from his shoulders.


    Meanwhile, countless people furrowed their brows.


    Artifact? What was an artifact? When a human transcends life and death, they be an immortal; when a ghost does so, they be a ghost immortal, also known as a "Weird." Their treasures are as powerful as celestial artifacts and are thus called artifacts.


    The ck Jade Talisman, which had shed with the Seven-colored Buddha Beads, turned out to be an artifact from the underworld?


    Killing Zhong Shan seemed impossible now. The Buddhas felt a bitter sense of defeat. Zhong Shan was indeed Elysium''s nemesis. Even an exploding celestial artifact couldn''t kill him. Was he a demon?


    Their initial rage had turned to bitterness. In hindsight, if they hadn''t provoked Zhong Shan, would things have turned out this way?


    Of course, there was one thing Zhong Shan hadn''t mentioned. The ck Jade Talisman had shattered, but its fragments had mysteriously reassembled within his body, forming a talisman shape in his purple pce. Although its stored energy was greatly diminished, it was still intact, and Zhong Shan could now slowly refine it with his current cultivation.


    "Gu Yuan Buddha, it''s your turn now," Joyful Buddha suddenly said.


    "Very well," Gu Yuan Buddha nodded. The celestial artifact behind his head began to rotate.


    The Twenty-four Heavens Wheel.


    Seeing another celestial artifact, Zhong Shan''s heart tightened. The ck Jade Talisman couldn''t withstand another celestial artifact explosion. If Gu Yuan Buddha was determined to fight to the death, Zhong Shan was surely doomed.


    The Twenty-four Heavens Wheel consisted of twenty-four small worlds, each rotating and emitting eerie rays of light.


    As Gu Yuan Buddha activated the wheel, everyone grew tense. The remaining three Buddhas looked bitter, as if this was ast resort.


    "Om, Ma, Ni, Pad, Me, Hum," Gu Yuan Buddha chanted the six-syble mantra. The Twenty-four Heavens Wheel in his hand grewrger andrger.


    "Not good!" Nie Fancheng suddenly shouted and quickly led Li Huo Holy City in an assault on the Buddha altar.


    The other two holy cities also began their assault on the altar.


    The rapid assault caused Gu Yuan Buddha''s bitterness to deepen.


    Staring at the enormous Twenty-four Heavens Wheel, he let out a deep sigh.


    "Break��!"


    The Twenty-four Heavens Wheel emitted billions of green rays, shooting straight at the three holy cities.


    "Boom��!"


    The three holy cities collided with the Buddha altar once more, causing massive shockwaves. The altar immediately developed countless cracks, radiating outwards like a spiderweb, destroying its powerpletely.


    However, after the collision, the three holy cities seemed to dissolve into nothingness. The green light emitted by the Twenty-four Heavens Wheel erased all traces of the holy cities, and the derived worlds created by the three Feng Shui masters were shattered.


    "Boom��!"


    The holy cities vanished, and everything returned to its original state. A faint green mist lingered in the air, a residual effect of the Twenty-four Heavens Wheel''s light.


    "Your Majesty, the derived worlds have been broken. The chaotic ''world energy'' prevents us from creating new ones," Tiao quickly reported.


    "Attack��!"


    Nirvana Dust waved his hand, and many of his powerful subordinates charged towards the altar, engaging in battle with the Bodhisattvas and Arhats.


    With the derived worlds no longer deployable, both sides could only engage in directbat, leader against leader, general against general.


    At that moment, the Twenty-four Heavens Wheel seemed to lose all its spiritual power, falling like a heap of scrap metal.


    "Gu Yuan Buddha released all the world energy within the Twenty-four Heavens Wheel to level the ying field," Tiao exined to Gu Shentong.


    Gu Shentong nodded, his gaze fixed coldly on Joyful Buddha in the distance. Now was the time to exact revenge. With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan, who was nearby, was flung away.


    Zhong Shan was a crucial figure and couldn''t stay there. He was immediately thrown back to his original location by Gu Shentong.


    "Father!" Zhong Tian shouted in delight upon seeing Zhong Shan suddenly appear.


    Zhong Shan looked at the chaotic battle in the distance, his eyes filled with relief. It had been a close call, but he had finally escaped.


    As for the melee in the distance, Zhong Shan had no intention of rejoining the fight. The people of Elysium were all madmen.


    On a distant mountain peak in the ck world, the woman beside Nian Youyou spoke with excitement, "Youyou, quickly, Zhong Shan is exposed now. Shoot him! Shoot him dead!"


    "Master!" Nian Youyou protested reluctantly.


    "Hurry! Isn''t this why you came here? If he escapes back into the ck world, you''ll never find him again. Shoot now!" the woman urged, grabbing Nian Youyou''s hand and lifting her peerless bow, aiming it directly at the exposed Zhong Shan.


    Nian Youyou hesitated, torn between her master''smand and her own feelings.

 Chapter 476: Golden Pupils

    <h4>Chapter 476: Golden Pupils</h4>


    Zhong Shan stood beside Zhong Tian, watching the area where the Buddha altar and the holy cities had disappeared. Amid the chaotic battle of countless powerful beings, dazzling spells depicted a cruel massacre.


    The battle was imminent. The powerful figures spread out from the crowded environment, allowing them to fight more freely and without restraint.


    "Wuhen, lead the troops out of Elysium!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen immediately responded, gathering his subordinates to retreat swiftly.


    "Tian''er, take your Daming Temple people and leave quickly, or the Buddhas will see through your disguise and counterattack in desperation!" Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood!" Zhong Tian replied promptly.


    "Haomeili, are you ready?" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Ready, ready! Let''s go quickly; I think Golden Cicada Buddha has noticed me tampering with his restriction," Haomeili said.


    "Then let''s get out of here."


    "Yes!" Haomeili nodded eagerly.


    Eleven more immortal steles��following Zhong Shan to seize treasures was truly rewarding.


    As the army retreated swiftly, Zhong Shan headed towards Mr. Corpse''s location. Mr. Corpse was digging up the Buddha''s tombs, frantically retrieving the corpses of former Bodhisattvas and Buddhas. The Buddha''s tombs were in the ck world, and although Zhong Shan couldn''t see Mr. Corpse, he believed he was there.


    "You all go ahead, I''ll fetch Mr. Corpse!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    "Understood!" everyone responded immediately.


    Zhong Shan rushed towards the ck world where Mr. Corpse was. As he passed through the white world, he noticed a small courtyard and frowned, deep in thought. This courtyard was the residence of Bodhisattva Piaoxiang of Elysium, now empty after her death.


    In the distance.


    "Release��!"


    On her master''smand, Nian Youyou shot a powerful arrow towards Zhong Shan.


    "Whoosh��!"


    The arrow, shot from an unparalleled bow, reached Zhong Shan in an instant. He had just noticed it when the ck arrow struck his thigh.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes widened, and he resisted with all his might.


    He activated the fifth level of his Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique, fully prepared to defend himself.


    But the arrow was too fast. It left no time for thought.


    "Shh��!"


    Despite Zhong Shan''s full defense, the ck arrow pierced through his thigh.


    "Shh��!"


    The ck arrow lodged in Zhong Shan''s right leg, and without hesitation, he rolled into the ck world.


    "What a powerful body! At this level, he already has the physique of an Emperor Realm cultivator?" Nian Youyou''s master eximed in amazement.


    Nian Youyou, however, breathed a long sigh of relief. Although she had shot the arrow, it had not hit a vital point, only the leg.


    "You did it on purpose, didn''t you?" the woman suddenly red at Nian Youyou.


    "Master, please don''t force me!" Nian Youyou said with a sorrowful expression. The ancestral beast on her shoulder looked puzzled, blinking its eyes.


    "s, don''t you see? Although Zhong Shan is only in the Integration stage now, he already has the potential to challenge Emperor Realm cultivators. Zhong Shan''s growth is too fast, just like him back then. If you can''t bring yourself to kill him now, you might never have another chance," the woman said.


    "Master, if there is no chance, then so be it. Didn''t you also��" Nian Youyou said with a pained expression.


    "Rubbish! You and I are different. Do you remember the oath you took before practicing the Supreme Emotionless Technique? What did you say?" the woman red at her.


    "I said that I would never let emotions hinder me, and if I couldn''t bring myself to kill the one I love, I would fall into the lowest level of hell," Nian Youyou said, biting her lip and shedding tears.


    "Good that you remember," the woman said sternly.


    "But, Master, I really can''t do it," Nian Youyou said sorrowfully.


    "Even if you can''t, you must. We can''t allow Zhong Shan to grow any stronger. He must die. From now on, I''ll stay with you until you kill him. He must die. Next time, aim for the vital spots. Kill him with one shot. If you fail to kill him, you''ll continue to suffer this torment. Now shoot!" the womanmanded.


    "Master!" Nian Youyou cried out in pain.


    "As soon as he shows himself again, shoot him dead with this arrow," the woman said, handing her an identical breaking arrow.


    It looked identical, but in her emotional turmoil, Nian Youyou couldn''t tell the difference.


    "Master, he won''te out. He''ll definitely leave from the ck world," Nian Youyou argued.


    "Then follow him out of Elysium and kill him," the woman said, her eyes fierce.


    In the distance.


    "Your Majesty, are you all right?" Mr. Corpse caught the flying Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan sat on the ground, looking at the breaking arrow lodged in his thigh with a wry smile. Someone had actually ambushed him, but fortunately, it only hit his leg.


    He reached out, broke the arrow, and pulled it out. His true energy quickly healed his thigh. The wound on his leg healed rapidly, but his pants were soaked with blood.


    "I''m fine. I''ll recover fully in a couple of days," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head as he stood up with some difficulty.


    Though not seriously injured, having an arrow pierce his leg made movement inconvenient.


    "Good to hear," Mr. Corpse sighed in relief.


    "How''s the digging of the Buddha''s tombs going?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Just one more Buddha corpse to go," Mr. Corpse replied.


    "Good, time is of the essence. Hurry up. As soon as you''re done, we''ll leave immediately," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood," Mr. Corpse responded promptly.


    Zhong Shan stood up with some difficulty, looking at his blood-stained pants. He decided to ignore it for now; there would be time to change after they left Elysium. He continued to heal his wound with true energy while surveying the surroundings. In the distance, the battles of powerful figures were drawing closer, making it urgent for them to leave quickly.


    As for the arrow earlier, Zhong Shan knew it hade from somewhere in the ck world; there were no visible signs from the outside.


    Zhong Shan frowned, looking at Piaoxiang Courtyard in the white world, where Bodhisattva Piaoxiang had lived. He seemed deep in thought.


    Finally, as if making a decision, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, and he dashed into the white world, heading straight for Piaoxiang Courtyard.


    Seeing Zhong Shan rush out, Mr. Corpse''s eyebrows twitched. What was His Majesty doing? With someone out there trying to kill him, why would he rush out?


    "He''s out! Shoot, shoot now!" Nian Youyou''s mastermanded.


    Nian Youyou watched Zhong Shan rush out, her eyes widening with resentment. Why? Why did you have toe out? Stay hidden, don''te out.


    "Shoot him! One clean shot and it''s over. Do you want to prolong this torment?" her master shouted, grabbing Nian Youyou''s hands and aiming the bow at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan had already dashed into Piaoxiang Courtyard. The moment he entered, he immediately rushed back out, sprinting towards the ck world where Mr. Corpse was.


    "Shoot��!" the woman yelled.


    Nian Youyou''s tears burst forth as she released the breaking arrow, which sped towards Zhong Shan with a loud whoosh. The unparalleled bow''s power was extraordinary, and the arrow reached Zhong Shan in an instant.


    Seeing the arrow, Zhong Shan had been on guard, but the arrow was too fast, faster than he could react with his Integration stage cultivation. He barely had time to put up a protective barrier and tense his muscles.


    He watched helplessly as the arrow shot towards his chest, aiming for his Purple Pce.


    "Boom��!"


    Just as the arrow struck his Purple Pce, Zhong Shan fell into the ck world.


    In the Purple Pce, the arrow had hit its mark. Nian Youyou stood there, stunned, her eyes filled with despair.


    "Yes, Youyou, you finally killed him. A Scatter Soul Arrow, piercing the Purple Pce. Even a true Emperor Realm cultivator would have their primordial spirit scattered and soul dispersed. He is dead, no doubt about it," the woman eximed with delight.


    "Scatter Soul Arrow? What did you say? Scatter Soul Arrow? No, it can''t be, you said Scatter Soul Arrow?" Nian Youyou''s eyes shed with rage as she looked at the woman.


    A Scatter Soul Arrow meant Zhong Shan was doomed. He was dead, no question.


    Nian Youyou''s eyes filled with resentment as she stared at the woman. The woman was unfazed, believing that as long as Nian Youyou could be an immortal, it didn''t matter if she hated her.


    "Yes, it''s a Scatter Soul Arrow. You killed Zhong Shan. You shot him dead," the woman said with a seductive smile.


    "I killed Zhong Shan? I killed Zhong Shan?" Nian Youyou''s tears had dried up, now reced by streams of blood. Her expression was a mix of indescribable emotions.


    Suddenly, her pupils contracted to the extreme, then expanded, turning a brilliant gold.


    "Ah��!" Nian Youyou let out a frenzied scream. The ancestral beast on her shoulder was thrown off, caught by the woman. Nian Youyou''s entire body turned golden, her hair transforming to a golden hue, fluttering wildly. A terrifying aura erupted from her, generating a fierce wind.


    The woman was unaffected by the wind.


    "Emperor Realm! The descendants of immortals truly are extraordinary. To break through in such a short moment. Emperor Realm! Haha, Emperor Realm! Soon you''ll reach the Celestial Realm. Youyou, you did it. Emperor Realm," the woman eximed excitedly.


    Emperor Realm? After her scream, Nian Youyou calmed down, the ancestral beast jumping back onto her shoulder. However, she showed no joy at her increased cultivation; she was now cold and distant.


    Emperor Realm. Nian Youyou would rather not have reached this realm.


    "Youyou!" the woman said with satisfaction.


    Nian Youyou looked at the woman, now devoid of any master-disciple affection. She nced coldly at her, then turned and left quickly.


    Seeing Nian Youyou''s sudden change, the woman smiled contentedly, picking up the unparalleled bow and sighing with relief. The Supreme Emotionless Technique��Nian Youyou had finally embarked on this path. Her emotions were unstable now, but that would improve over time.

 Chapter 477: The Seven-Colored Rose

    <h4>Chapter 477: The Seven-Colored Rose</h4>


    Nian Youyou had broken through, directly reaching the powerful Emperor Realm.


    Having personally killed the one she loved, the emotion was iprehensible to anyone else. At that moment, Nian Youyou''s heart also died. She no longer wanted to stay there; she needed a ce to calm down and reflect.


    After Nian Youyou left, the woman also took the unparalleled bow and turned to follow her.


    Near Piaoxiang Courtyard, Zhong Shan had rushed in and, upon emerging, was ambushed again. Another arrow was shot at his chest, directly targeting his Purple Pce.


    It was too fast��so fast that Zhong Shan couldn''t react in time. The arrow knocked him into the ck world.


    "Your Majesty, Your Majesty, are you all right?" Mr. Corpse cried out.


    Mr. Corpse had just excavated thest Buddha''s corpse and, seeing Zhong Shan with an arrow in his Purple Pce, rushed over immediately.


    "Cough, cough," Zhong Shan coughed several times before feeling a bit better. The impact of that arrow was tremendous.


    After catching his breath, Zhong Shan looked at his chest.


    An arrow was lodged there, but it had only pierced his clothing, not his body.


    Tearing his clothes, Zhong Shan gently pulled out the arrow, checking his chest with a sense of relief. It was the armor he wore that had saved him.


    The armor given to him by Princess Qianyou.


    The Liuli Heart-Protection Armor, an eighth-grade treasure. When Zhong Shan had led his troops to attack the Great Yu Empire, Princess Qianyou had rushed from the holy city to give him this armor, specially requested from the Emperor to protect Zhong Shan''s Purple Pce. Only an expert at the Celestial Realm could prate it.


    Gently caressing the Emperor''s Liuli Heart-Protection Armor, Zhong Shan''s eyes softened with tenderness.


    "It''s good you''re all right. Let''s leave quickly," Mr. Corpse said.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse quickly left the ck world, catching up with the army and swiftly exiting Elysium.


    Once outside, Zhong Shan let out a long breath of relief.


    Outside, numerous third parties hoping to take advantage of the situation wore expectant expressions. Unable to enter, they could only wait, clueless about what was happening inside.


    Leading his army, Zhong Shan quickly avoided the onlookers, finding a remote, safe ce to rest. He didn''t want to suffer any more losses.


    In the camp, Zhong Shan recuperated for a while, and after three days, his injuries werepletely healed.


    Three days passed, and the battle within Elysium continued. Straggling soldiers emerged, but the three great saints and the Buddhas had not yete out. The entrance to Elysium continued to shake.


    "I''m going out for a while. Stay safe," Zhong Shan said.


    "Commander, you were just ambushed. Going out now might be��" Mr. Corpse said with concern.


    The generals also looked at Zhong Shan, clearly unwilling to let him take risks. The outside world was full of hidden dangers; how could he take such a risk?


    "It''s fine. Inside Elysium, the ck and white worlds restrict divine sense. Now it''s different. With my Integration stage cultivation, I can extend my divine sense and avoid danger," Zhong Shan said, waving off their concerns before flying away.


    Over the next three days, Nian Youyou slowly calmed down. Her pupils returned to their normal color, and her hair reverted as well. Her heart was dead, closed off from the world, her expression cold and indifferent.


    After the initial frenzy, Nian Youyou returned to the outskirts of Elysium.


    She went to the valley where she and Zhong Shan had agreed to meet before he entered Elysium.


    The valley was serene, with a small, crystal-clearke. Nian Youyou stood by theke, the ancestral beast lounging on her shoulder.


    Looking at her reflection in theke, Nian Youyou gently crouched down and stirred the water with her hand.


    "Is this really me? Am I still myself?"


    Nian Youyou felt an indescribable sorrow, reying the scene from three days ago in her mind.


    She had shot Zhong Shan dead with her own hands. Zhong Shan was dead, killed by her, all for the sake of cultivation? When did she be such a woman?


    "Why did youe out? Why did you have toe out? Tell me, why did youe out?" Nian Youyou sobbed with immense sadness.


    Tears fell from her eyes into theke, creating ripples on the surface.


    Nian Youyou''s heart was filled with turmoil. Self-me? That didn''t even begin to cover it.


    "Why did youe out? Tell me, why did youe out?"


    She kept repeating this question to her reflection. She didn''t understand why Zhong Shan hade out again. Hadn''t he known someone was trying to ambush him? Why did he expose himself to her arrow? Why?


    "Youyou, you''re really here!"


    Suddenly, a familiar and joyful voice reached her ears.


    Nian Youyou''s expression froze, then she shook her head. It must be an illusion. It had to be an illusion. She shook her head in disbelief and looked at theke with even more sadness.


    "Youyou, what''s wrong? Who bullied you?" Zhong Shan asked with surprise, looking at Nian Youyou.


    Just as he entered the valley, he saw Nian Youyou squatting by theke. He greeted her, but she didn''t respond and instead began crying alone, piquing his curiosity.


    "Youyou," Zhong Shan called again.


    An illusion? Another illusion? Nian Youyou kept telling herself. Zhong Shan was dead; it couldn''t be him. But this voice, even if it was an illusion, she couldn''t ignore it.


    Turning her head, she saw Zhong Shan''s curious expression.


    Zhong Shan? Not an illusion? It was really Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan wasn''t dead.


    Seeing Zhong Shan and confirming it was him, Nian Youyou couldn''t hold back any longer. She threw herself at him, hugging him tightly. She clung to him as if afraid he would suddenly disappear, as if this were all a dream.


    Looking at Nian Youyou in his arms, who was crying with joy, Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    "Youyou, what''s wrong?" Zhong Shan asked, holding her.


    At his question, Nian Youyou quickly examined Zhong Shan with her divine sense. She saw the scars on his leg left by the breaking arrows but found his Purple Pce unharmed. How could that be? But did it matter?


    "You''re okay. That''s all that matters," Nian Youyou said, releasing Zhong Shan from her embrace, her eyes filled with indescribable joy.


    "Of course I''m okay, and I brought you something," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Then, with a flick of his hand, three roses appeared. They were incredibly beautiful, continuously changing colors��red, yellow, orange, green, blue, indigo, and violet. The shifting hues created a fantastical effect, stunningly beautiful. Seven-colored roses.


    Seeing the seven-colored roses in Zhong Shan''s hand, Nian Youyou suddenly felt the world spinning, as if only she and Zhong Shan remained at the center.


    Tears, which had just stopped, began to flow again as she looked at the roses.


    Memories from the past suddenly resurfaced from the depths of her mind��


    "I don''t mean the Buddha''s tomb; I mean the small courtyard next to it. Do you see it?"


    "Why?"


    "That''s Piaoxiang Courtyard, where Bodhisattva Piaoxiang lives. She guards the tombs, and in her courtyard, there are three unique ''Seven-colored Roses,'' the kings of roses. There are only three in the world, all in her courtyard. You see..."


    "Is Bodhisattva Piaoxiang very protective of these roses?"


    "They''re her lifeline. She spends her days tending the graves, never talking to anyone. She''s quite temperamental."


    "When will you get them for me?"��


    Looking at the three roses, Nian Youyou covered her nose, unable to stop the tears from flowing.


    The three Seven-colored Roses from Piaoxiang Courtyard? The three Seven-colored Roses from Piaoxiang Courtyard?


    At this moment, Nian Youyou finally understood why Zhong Shan hade out of the ck world again, why he had risked his life to run to Piaoxiang Courtyard. He did it to pick these roses for her. He came out for her, risking his life just for her.


    Why was it like this? She had been desperately seeking the answer, wanting to know why Zhong Shan would risk his life. Now she knew��it was to pick three roses for her, just for her.


    Why was it like this?


    Looking at the three roses, Nian Youyou''s heart ached unbearably. Why was it like this?


    "Just three roses. I happened to see that Bodhisattva Piaoxiang wasn''t there, so I picked them casually. It wasn''t a big deal. Why are you so emotional? You weren''t this excited when I gave you roses before," Zhong Shan said, puzzled.


    Nian Youyou bit her lip, looking at Zhong Shan. It felt like a knife had stabbed her heart. Three roses? Casually picked? Not a big deal?


    The more he spoke in this nonchnt tone, the more it hurt Nian Youyou. Why was it like this?


    "Alright, now I''m giving them to you. Oh, and you wanted me to say a romantic line. This request is really... well, don''t cry. I''ll say it. Uh..." Zhong Shan said, handing her the roses.


    Nian Youyou was so immersed in the three roses that she couldn''t hear what Zhong Shan was saying. She felt like she was falling apart, looking at the three roses he handed her.


    "Why did you risk your life? Why?" Nian Youyou grabbed the Seven-colored Roses from Zhong Shan and finally couldn''t hold back, shouting hysterically, her voice filled with anguish. Tears streamed down uncontrobly.


    "Risk my life? How do you know?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly taken aback.


    Biting her lip, Nian Youyou took a deep look at Zhong Shan, grabbed the Seven-colored Roses, and turned around, disappearing in a sh. She left Zhong Shan standing alone in the valley.


    Watching Nian Youyou disappear, Zhong Shan furrowed his brows, as if understanding something. He sighed softly, turned around, and flew back to the Zhong Family Army''s camp.

 Chapter 478: Gu Shentong鈥檚 Ambition

    <h4>Chapter 478: Gu Shentong''s Ambition</h4>


    After delivering the roses, Zhong Shan returned to the camp.


    The generals were waiting. In the crowd, Hao Meili''s eyes lit up as soon as she saw Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, we owe you big time this time," Hao Meili praised without hesitation. She was in a very good mood after acquiring the Immortal Stele.


    "Good thing we got the Immortal Stele, or I can''t imagine how much you would have cursed me," Zhong Shan joked with a smile.


    "How could I? By the way!" Hao Meili suddenly remembered something.


    "What?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled. Everyone else also turned their attention to Hao Meili.


    "There are still two sets of Immortal Steles, one in the Taishou Heavenly Dynasty and the other in the Longevity Realm. When are we going to raid those ces?" Hao Meili asked eagerly.


    Silence.


    The hall fell into a hushed silence. Even Hao Meili''s master swallowed hard, unsure of how to advise her.


    Zhong Shan looked at Hao Meili in bewilderment. Raid the Taishou Heavenly Dynasty? Raid the Longevity Realm? That''s like asking to be killed.


    "What''s wrong?" Hao Meili asked, her eyes wide with curiosity.


    "Well, raiding for Immortal Steles requires long-term nning. Look at this time in Elysium, we only seeded because three major dynasties were attacking and we took advantage of the situation. The other ces need careful nning," Zhong Shan said, a bead of cold sweat forming on his forehead.


    "Long-term nning? Alright then, I trust you," Hao Meili said with a smile.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Right, about those dragon pearls like the onest time, there are a few more in the East Sea. I''ll get them for you as a token of my gratitude," Hao Meili offered.


    "Uh, sure!" Zhong Shan agreed readily. Such a good deal was not to be missed.


    "Father, I will return to Daming Temple now. Let the monks pray for Grandmaster Mingtai," Zhong Tian said.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    With that, Zhong Tian, carrying a heavy heart, gathered the monks from Daming Temple and left quickly.


    Zhong Shan waited outside Elysium for another three days. During this time, Hao Meili and the Western Poison Emperor also left, promising to find a way to get the additional dragon pearls for Zhong Shan. The rendezvous point was set on Tiang Ind by Zhong Shan.


    Watching the entrance of Elysium, Zhong Shan led his army in vignce. During this period, some straggling soldiers from the three major dynasties emerged but stayed close to the entrance, determined to kill anyone from Elysium who came out.


    Although the outsiders didn''t know exactly what was happening inside Elysium, it was clear that the three major dynasties had the upper hand and were methodically eliminating their enemies.


    The towering gates of Elysium shook violently, indicating the fierce battles within. It had been seven days. The spectators outside swallowed nervously.


    Finally, after onest intense shake of the three gates of Elysium, everything returned to calm.


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live, long live!"


    A person guarding the gates suddenly shouted.


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live, long live!"


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live, long live!"


    The cheers echoed, continuously proiming the victory of the three major dynasties. Elysium had fallen, erased from the annals of history.


    The three great heavenly dynasties had indeed annihted Elysium.


    The triumphant cheers from the outsiders were soon matched by the sight of the three dynasties'' armies emerging from within, apanied by the Phoenix and Tiger ns.


    Although both the Phoenix and Tiger ns were heavily injured, and many of the soldiers from the three dynasties were also wounded��some even carried out on stretchers��their excited smiles indicated a monumental victory.


    The onlookers, though eager to loot Elysium, didn''t dare touch the soldiers from the three dynasties, even those barely clinging to life.


    The armies split into three groups, slowly retreating from Elysium. Leaders like King Zhengyi, King Daxuan, King Taizong, and King Zhantian also emerged, returning in triumph.


    The Zhong Family Army quickly took charge of maintaining order, ensuring the wounded had a safe environment for treatment.


    The four crown princes nced at Zhong Shan, then sat cross-legged to meditate and recover.


    Everyone had exited except for the three emperors, the three Feng Shui masters, and Wu Jiutian. What puzzled Zhong Shan was that Ao Chuang, the Dragon King who had entered with him, had note out. Could he have perished inside?


    Zhong Shan patiently waited another day until the three gates of Elysium emitted millions of golden rays, illuminating the outside.


    "Boom��!"


    Suddenly, the ground shook violently. Everyone swallowed nervously, unsure of what was happening.


    "Buzz��!"


    After a light hum, people noticed something different.


    "The suppression of the Ten Thousand Mountains of Buddha is gone," someone suddenly shouted.


    "I feel it too. The energy that was suppressing my strength has disappeared."


    "Is it really gone? Did the three great dynasties destroy it?"


    Voices of astonishment filled the air. Zhong Shan listened attentively and realized that through the Red Luan Pink Lotus, he could no longer hear the chant "Om Mani Padme Hum."


    The special environment of the Ten Thousand Mountains of Buddha, which had been suppressing cultivation, hadpletely vanished. It was broken?


    As Zhong Shan pondered this, several figures emerged from the golden entrance.


    Gu Shentong, Nie Fancheng, Ying, Tiao, Dishi, Guigu, Wu Jiutian, and Dragon King Ao Chuang stepped out.


    Ao Chuang stood behind Ying, showing a willingness to submit.


    Numerous dragons and snakes followed from within, joining the Great Qin Dynasty''s forces. Ao Chuang quickly descended to the Great Qin army.


    "Gu Shentong, we have fully activated Houtu as requested. Now it''s up to you," Ying said suddenly.


    "Thank you all for your support," Gu Shentong said calmly.


    Everyone turned to look at Gu Shentong.


    Houtu? What was Houtu?


    Suddenly, Gu Shentong waved his hand.


    "Boom��!"


    The ground shook once more, almost causing those nearby to fall.


    "Rise��!" Gu Shentong''s shout was like a thunderp, shaking everyone''s spirits. But the most surprising thing was what happened next. The enormous gates of Elysium shrank rapidly and, with a wave of Gu Shentong''s hand, were absorbed into his sleeve.


    Gu Shentong had collected the gates of Elysium?


    No, that''s not right! In the distance, Zhong Shan''s heart skipped a beat as he finally realized what "Houtu" was. What could make the three great emperors so fixated, even causing Maitreya Buddha to react with anger when Bai Ye mentioned it during the Great Annihtion event?


    Houtu. Houtu wasn''t some ordinary object; it was Elysium itself. The small world they had entered within Elysium was called Houtu. Only something like this could stir such desire in the hearts of Celestial Realm experts.


    Houtu, the vast Elysium, was actually just an internal space of Houtu.


    This is Houtu? There exists such a miraculous thing in this world?


    Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with astonishment. Of course, many others, like Zhong Shan, also guessed what it was and looked at Gu Shentong''s sleeve. They had hoped to scavenge Elysium after the three great heavenly dynasties left, but now it seemed like a foolish dream. Gu Shentong had taken all of Elysium.


    Houtu, the small world that housed Elysium, was merely part of Houtu''s space.


    Everyone took a deep breath, shocked by this revtion. Why were Nie Fancheng and Ying so generous? Such a treasure would make even immortals covet it, yet they allowed Gu Shentong to have it without any intention of fighting for it?


    Why was this happening?


    Nobody understood why Nie Fancheng and Ying were being so magnanimous.


    Jealousy was natural; everyone wanted such a powerful thing. But to think of seizing it? No one dared. Who would dare challenge the top figures of the world? Not only them but also their formidable forces were enough to make anyone tremble.


    "Anyone who disturbs the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty within a hundred years will be an enemy of the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty," Ying suddenly dered.


    "Anyone who disturbs the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty within a hundred years will be an enemy of the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty," Nie Fancheng also dered.


    Disturbing the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty meant being enemies with the other two heavenly dynasties? Everyone''s jaws dropped. What did this mean? Had the three heavenly dynasties formed an alliance?


    An alliance again? What were they nning? Were they targeting another holynd?


    No, it was clear they were protecting the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty. But why dere this after giving Houtu to Gu Shentong?


    Gu Shentong?


    Everyone looked at Gu Shentong, puzzled about what had happened inside Elysium.


    Zhong Shan also looked on gravely. He knew one thing: Gu Shentong''s lifespan was nearly over, with at most a hundred years left. Within that time, he had to ascend to immortality, facing the Heavenly Tribtion.


    Ascending to immortality invited envy. Other Celestial Realm experts wouldn''t let it happen easily, constantly obstructing him. Even if they didn''t, they wouldn''t help. But now, what was this? Nie Fancheng and Ying were clearly protecting Gu Shentong.


    Gu Shentong frowned at the two but said nothing.


    Everyone focused on the strongest figures in the sky.


    "Well, that''s it for now. Lastly, I wish you sess in your creation," Ying said to Gu Shentong with a smile before turning to leave with the Great Qin army.


    "Sess in your creation!" Nie Fancheng also said to Gu Shentong before leaving with the Great Li army.


    Creation? Countless people outside were filled with confusion. What creation?


    At that moment, Zhong Shan noticed Mr. Corpse beside him suddenly widening his eyes in disbelief, staring at Gu Shentong.


    "Creation? Creating a world? Gu Shentong is going to create a world? This, this is impossible," Mr. Corpse muttered in astonishment.


    "Hiss��"


    After speaking, Mr. Corpse couldn''t help but take a deep breath.

 Chapter 479: The Creation of Heaven and Earth

    <h4>Chapter 479: The Creation of Heaven and Earth</h4>


    This year, the biggest event on the Shenzhou maind was undoubtedly the three great heavenly dynasties'' eradication of Elysium.


    Elysium, one of the four holynds of Shenzhou, an entity as transcendent as the heavenly dynasties, had been obliterated not long ago.


    Three great heavenly dynasties had encircled and besieged Elysium.


    The world still remembered the imposing visage of the first Buddha of Heaven and Earth, Gu Yuan Buddha. Now, it was only a distant memory.


    Elysium had been formidable with just two Buddhas. Then a third, Golden Cicada Buddha, appeared, and even a hidden Joyful Buddha. Four Buddhas��what a terrifying existence.


    Yet, they were all destroyed. Completely eradicated. None of the four Buddhas survived; all met their end. The outwardly triumphant three great emperors surely suffered some hidden injuries, but who would reveal them?


    The Buddhas were annihted, and the practitioners of Buddhism mourned deeply. Elysium had be a part of the annals of history.


    Elysium had met its nemesis.


    Zhong Shan, who had always been at the top of Shenzhou''s Wind and Cloud Rankings, wasn''t invincible in cultivation, but his prominence had never waned over the years. His cleverness led to the downfall of two major dynasties, the introduction of the Elixir of Immortality, which millions paid to witness, the grand spectacle of the Phoenixes singing in unison, the breaking of the Buddha''s silent meditation, and finally, his crucial role in the demise of Elysium. Each event pushed Zhong Shan further into the spotlight, to the very peak.


    Throughout Shenzhou, almost every major city echoed with Zhong Shan''s legends.


    History had seen many instances where a nemesis threatened only a particr powerful individual or group. Once that group was gone, everything returned to normal without further harm. Therefore, the powerful didn''t see Zhong Shan as a personal threat.


    Additionally, a new heavenly dynasty was rising rapidly in Shenzhou!


    The Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty, with Emperor Ying and its capital in Xianyang, had made a dramatic entrance. Unlike other heavenly dynasties that evolved from kingdoms, empires, and dynasties, the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty had ascended directly to its status. The other three great heavenly dynasties even came to congratte it. The strength of the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty was undeniable, evident from its role in the siege of Elysium.


    Soon after, the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty announced to the world that the Dragon n was now its national beast.


    The Dragon n? The most powerful beast n in Shenzhou had submitted to Great Qin.


    Since the ascension of Emperor Haotian from the Great Hong Heavenly Dynasty, the Dragon n hadn''t affiliated with any empire��not because they didn''t want to, but because no empire was worthy. Yet now, they had submitted to the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty.


    This demonstrated the formidable power of Emperor Ying.


    Moreover, with the fall of one of the four holynds, only three remained.


    The Divine Creation Pce, one of the three holynds, re-emerged after thousands of years of silence.


    The Divine Creation Pce announced a new pce master.


    The new pce master was "Xuan Yuan," a name many hadn''t heard before. But upon examining history, people quickly found Xuan Yuan''s records.


    He was reputed to be the strongest Emperor Realm cultivator, known for single-handedly annihting the Bear n. Had he broken through to the Celestial Realm?


    Thus, the world underwent significant changes.


    The leaders of the world now were the four great heavenly dynasties and the three holynds.


    The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty, the Taishou Heavenly Dynasty, and the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty.


    The Longevity Realm, the Netherworld, and the Divine Creation Pce.


    Among the four great heavenly dynasties, the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty was the most powerful.


    The ancient holy capital''s fortunes surged, subduing five major empires around it, doubling its territory. Now, the neighboring empires along the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty''s border dared not make any reckless moves.


    Not only was the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty immensely powerful, but with the public statements from the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty and the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty, no one dared to make a move. To act against the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty would mean dering war against three major heavenly dynasties. Who would dare?


    In the ancient holy capital, Gu Shentong led a triumphant return. The ancient sacred hall held a ceremony to distribute honors and rewards.


    "Zhao Zhengbei,mander of the Eighth Corps of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, led the vanguard in the siege of Elysium, contributing greatly to the country. He is conferred the title of First ss Loyal and Brave Marquis and rewarded with 120,000 top-grade spirit stones."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty. Long live the Emperor!"


    "Feng Wuji,mander of the Ninth Corps of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, led the vanguard in the siege of Elysium, contributing greatly to the country. He is conferred the title of First ss Xinting Marquis and rewarded with 120,000 top-grade spirit stones."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty. Long live the Emperor!"


    The eunuch continued to read the decrees issued by Gu Shentong, promoting and rewarding the meritorious officials one by one.


    "Zhong Shan, First ss Duke of the East and Vice Minister of Rites of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, led the vanguard in the siege of Elysium, contributing greatly to the country. He broke Gu Yuan Buddha''s Silent Meditation, destroyed Golden Cicada Buddha''s Seven-colored Buddha Beads, broke the Feng Shui formation of Elysium, and became the nemesis of Elysium. He is awarded a holy robe and five emperor essences."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty. Long live the Emperor!"


    Zhong Shan received his rewards with a slight surprise. His contributions in the siege of Elysium were immense, and everyone knew it. Thus, they listened attentively to his rewards.


    A holy robe and five emperor essences?


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s rewards, almost everyone took deep breaths.


    A holy robe? What is a holy robe? It is a garment worn by the Emperor himself. Although it may not have immense power, it symbolizes status. Wearing the holy robe, one''s status is beyond reproach.


    As long as he wears the holy robe, now in the heavenly dynasty can bind him. Even the four crown princes cannot trouble him. The only person who can punish him is Gu Shentong himself. It can be said that in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, he is second only to the Emperor, above millions. Though not granted any specific authority, the holy robe itself represents the greatest authority.


    The Emperor''s favor towards Zhong Shan was immense.


    Five emperor essences. Emperor essences are the primordial spirits of Emperor Realm experts. These essences are highly pure energy, paramount in alchemy and artifact crafting.


    How many Emperor Realm experts exist in the world? Taking out five essences this time? Everyone knew these emperor essences were certainly acquired from Elysium, the primordial spirits of five Bodhisattvas.


    Zhong Shan understood clearly. While others might value the holy robe more, Zhong Shan valued the emperor essences. The primordial spirits of Emperor Realm experts were exactly what he desired most.


    Gu Shentong must have known that Zhong Shan had previously refined Bodhisattva Piaoxiang''s primordial spirit, which is why he intentionally left these essences for him.


    Zhong Shan felt silently grateful.


    In the Eastern Residence.


    Zhong Shan returned with his rewards, and his subordinates all congratted him.


    "Wu Shuang, you stay and lead the Zhong Family Army. Wuhen,e with me on a mission," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" everyone responded immediately.


    Although Shui Wuhen was puzzled, he did not question.


    Everyone knew that Zhong Shan had another n when he requested leave from the Emperor.


    Leaving Zhi Huo, Qing Hong, and Liu Wushuang to guard the Eastern Residence, Zhong Shan took Mr. Corpse, Lin Xiao, and Shui Wuhen with him. They departed the day after they returned.


    Gu Shentong''s n to create a new world had spread widely, with everyone aware of the news. However, very few truly understood what creating a new world entailed.


    Leaving the ancient holy capital, Zhong Shan led his threepanions swiftly towards Tiang Ind.


    "Mr. Corpse, now that we''ve left the ancient holy capital, exin what ''opening the heavens and creating the earth'' means," Zhong Shan asked directly.


    Lin Xiao and Shui Wuhen looked at Mr. Corpse curiously.


    "Yes," Mr. Corpse replied promptly. "To exin the concept of ''opening the heavens and creating the earth,'' we must start with our world and the so-called Immortal Realm. You all probably believe that our current location is the mortal realm, right?"


    "Correct, we are in the mortal realm. Those who be immortals ascend to the Immortal Realm," Lin Xiao nodded.


    Mr. Corpse shook his head.


    "And what about the underworld?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "There are three realms: the Immortal Realm, the Mortal Realm, and the Underworld," Shui Wuhen answered, sharing his knowledge.


    "No, in reality, there is only one realm," Mr. Corpse said suddenly.


    "Oh?" The group was slightly surprised.


    "Generally speaking, it''s called the ''Great Thousand World,''" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "The Great Thousand World?"


    "Yes, the Great Thousand World is divided into two parts: the Yang World and the Yin World," Mr. Corpse borated.


    The group listened attentively.


    "The Great Thousand World is the main entity. Within it, there are three thousand small worlds. Our world is one of these enclosed small worlds," Mr. Corpse rified.


    "You mean this world is a small world? And the so-called Immortal Realm, where people go after bing immortals, is the Great Thousand World?" Lin Xiao frowned.


    "Correct. In the small world, bing an immortal is extremely difficult. But once someone achieves it, the small world rejects them, expelling them into the Great Thousand World. This is what is known as ascending to immortality," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "So what does ''opening the heavens and creating the earth'' mean?" Shui Wuhen asked, frowning.


    "Opening the heavens and creating the earth is an extraordinary feat. It involves using great power, fortune, or merit to forcibly break open a small world and integrate it into the Great Thousand World," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Forcibly break open? Integrate into the Great Thousand World?" Shui Wuhen was astonished.


    "Gu Shentong intends to take this entire world with him as he ascends?" Lin Xiao also frowned in surprise. This news was shocking.


    "Yes, if he seeds in opening the heavens and creating the earth, this small world will be part of the Great Thousand World. It can indeed be seen as taking the entire world along in his ascension, or rather, bringing the entire world into the Great Thousand World," Mr. Corpse said with a smile.


    "Furthermore, if Gu Shentong seeds, the entire Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty will also be elevated. It will be blessed by the heavens, its fortune will soar, and its cosmic status will increase. Gu Shentong will then have the same cosmic status as a Buddha in the Great Thousand World. Although his power may not increase immediately, his status will be equal to that of a Buddha," Mr. Corpse continued.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath. Indeed, it was unbelievable. Gu Shentong had great ambitions. Not content with ruling a heavenly dynasty, he aimed for even more.


    "Of course, opening the heavens and creating the earth is extremely difficult. It''s not something an ordinary heavenly dynasty''s emperor can achieve. Even ordinary immortals don''t have the confidence to seed. Gu Shentong''s chances of sess are less than one percent," Mr. Corpse sighed.


    "I''ve heard from Qianyou that Gu Shentong has had the power to confront heavenly tribtion and be an immortal for four thousand years, but he has dyed it for this very purpose," Zhong Shan pondered.


    "Four thousand years? Even after four thousand years, his chances of sess are still less than one percent," Mr. Corpse confirmed emphatically.

 Chapter 480: The Astronomical Directorate

    <h4>Chapter 480: The Astronomical Directorate</h4>


    "How does Mr. Corpse know all this?" Lin Xiao asked.


    Zhong Shan and Shui Wuhen also looked at Mr. Corpse with curiosity.


    Mr. Corpse smiled bitterly and replied, "Because I originallye from the Great Thousand World."


    From the Great Thousand World? The others were slightly surprised, except for Zhong Shan, who had already suspected that Mr. Corpse might not be from this world, so he wasn''t too shocked.


    "I can''t divulge all the details now, but I promise to tell you when the time is right. However, I''ve noticed that apart from me, there are others from the Great Thousand World here," Mr. Corpse said.


    Intrigued by Mr. Corpse''s words, the group followed his line of thought.


    "Oh?"


    Mr. Corpse frowned and continued, "Commander, do you remember the Mingyuan Pill? The bat bag and the Soul Searching Stone?"


    "What about them?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "These items shouldn''t exist in a small thousand world. Also, that bat bag, although a crude artifact, can store living creatures. Isn''t that strange?" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Indeed, it was quite amazing how it could hold subdued bats despite its limited power."


    "That''s because the bat bag was crafted by an immortal. Although it was made casually and not refined with care, it still contains traces of immortal energy," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded deeply, raising his regard for the leader of the Demon Nightmare Corps.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s serious attention, Mr. Corpse didn''t borate further.


    "Shui Wuhen, since I brought you along, there are some secrets you need to know. Be prepared," Zhong Shan said.


    "Please go ahead, Commander," Shui Wuhen responded immediately.


    "Alright, Lin Xiao, exin to him," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes," Lin Xiao agreed without hesitation.


    As they traveled, Lin Xiao began exining the matters of the Great Zheng Dynasty to Shui Wuhen. Shui Wuhen listened intently, clenching his fists in surprise as he learned about the other identity of his reveredmander.


    After a lengthy exnation, Shui Wuhen finally understood everything.


    As Zhong Shan had anticipated.


    "Shui Wuhen greets Your Majesty. Long live the Emperor!" Shui Wuhen immediately knelt and paid his respects.


    Shui Wuhen''s loyalty was expected. After all, he had been groomed by Zhong Shan himself and held him in the highest esteem. Lin Xiao''s exnation made everything clear to him.


    "Good. From now on, I appoint you as themander of the Fifth Corps of the Great Zheng Dynasty," Zhong Shan announced with satisfaction.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Shui Wuhen epted the appointment promptly.


    With everything out in the open, Lin Xiao, Mr. Corpse, and Shui Wuhen felt more rxed around each other.


    "I assume Mr. Lin is also a corpsmander?" Shui Wuhen asked curiously.


    "I''ve been with His Majesty the longest, so I had the fortune of bing themander of the First Corps. Mr. Corpse is themander of the Fourth Corps," Lin Xiao replied with a smile.


    "Last time you mentioned Mr. Yi Yan being like you, does that mean he is also a corpsmander of the Great Zheng Dynasty?" Shui Wuhen inquired.


    "That''s correct. Yi Yan is themander of the Third Corps. The Second Corps is led by Wei Yinn. Each one is as strong as I am. Once you reach Tiang Ind, you''ll hear their stories," Lin Xiao exined.


    "Understood!" Shui Wuhen took a deep breath and nodded.


    Shui Wuhen felt immense gratitude and relief. Being named themander of the Fifth Corps of the Great Zheng Dynasty was significant. He knew how powerful the other four corpsmanders were. He had seen Lin Xiao''s strength firsthand, experienced Yi Yan''s formidable abilities as the Grand Commander of the Great Yu Dynasty''s three armies, and knew Mr. Corpse''s mysterious and powerful nature. The Second Corps Commander, Wei Yinn, was surely no less capable.


    This dynasty''s military leaders were as strong as those of any major empire. Shui Wuhen felt honored and recognized by Zhong Shan.


    Several monthster, the four arrived at Tiang Ind without attracting much attention.


    Zhong Shan''s main body and his hidden form merged once again. The next day at court, Shui Wuhen''s appointment was officially announced.


    In Zhong Shan''s study:


    "Your Majesty, I will now lead the First Corps of the Great Zheng Dynasty to Shenzhou," Lin Xiao said respectfully.


    "Yes, Yi Yan and Yinn have already established a foothold in the southern regions of Shenzhou. Your presence will greatly enhance our efforts. I will assign four wolf generals to ensure your safety. Depart with your troops tomorrow," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Lin Xiao replied immediately.


    "Tai Zhong!" Zhong Shan called.


    "At your service!" Wei Taizhong responded promptly.


    "This is Shui Wuhen,mander of the Fifth Corps of the Great Zheng Dynasty. Show him around and help him get acquainted," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Wei Taizhong said.


    "Chief Wei, thank you for your assistance," Shui Wuhen said quickly.


    "I have no other duties at the moment. It''s my pleasure to apany General Shui," Wei Taizhong replied with a smile.


    "Mr. Corpse, for now, you may stay and focus on your tasks," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, I have some corpses that need refining," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    "Alright, you all may leave now," Zhong Shan concluded the meeting.


    "Yes!" The group exchanged nces and promptly exited.


    Once everyone had left, Zhong Shan spoke, "Elder y Bodhisattva, please reveal yourself."


    A figure in a ck robe slowly appeared in front of Zhong Shan.


    "Your subordinates are quite remarkable, able to detect my presence," the y Bodhisattva remarked with a hint of admiration.


    "Each has their expertise. Detecting you wasn''t difficult, especially since you didn''t try to conceal yourself. Naturally, they could find you," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "You''ve won!" The y Bodhisattva sighed slightly.


    "I have indeed, twice now. I found you during the Yufu Wheel Pce incident," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Alright, as you say. In just a few decades, we''ve had three encounters in Shenzhou. It seems my lineage and the Great Zheng Dynasty are indeed intertwined," the y Bodhisattva mused.


    "Three times?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    "The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was sealed by my master," the y Bodhisattva exined.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up. To seal the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail required incredible power.


    Clearly, the y Bodhisattva had noticed Zhong Shan during the incident in Fengling City but had chosen not to reveal himself.


    "A bet is a bet. I am not one to back out. I will assist you from now on," the y Bodhisattva dered.


    "Thank you. From now on, the Great Zheng Dynasty will establish a new department, the Astronomical Directorate, and you will be its director," Zhong Shan said directly.


    "I prefer not to expose myself too much," the y Bodhisattva said hesitantly.


    "No problem. You won''t need to attend court. Just consider the Great Zheng Dynasty your home," Zhong Shan assured him.


    "Long live, long live, long live," the y Bodhisattva said stiffly.


    Receiving the y Bodhisattva''s acknowledgment, Zhong Shan felt immensely satisfied. With the y Bodhisattva on their side, the Great Zheng Dynasty now had the foundation to make significant inroads into Shenzhou.


    Zhong Shan understood that the strength of a dynasty relied not just on raw power but also on its depth and resources. A Feng Shui master represented a deep, foundational resource that could elevate the dynasty''s status significantly.


    Moreover, the Feng Shui master of the Great Zheng Dynasty was exceptionally formidable, capable of standing against the Feng Shui masters of the three great heavenly dynasties.


    The Great Zheng Dynasty continued to operate smoothly and efficiently.


    Back in his true body, Zhong Shan cherished his rare time at home, spending affectionate moments with his two empresses.


    Lying in bed, holding his two beauties, Zhong Shan felt unparalleledfort and joy.


    "Zhong Shan, please don''t take such risks anymore. Sister Bao''er and I were so worried," Tian Ling''er said, caressing Zhong Shan''s chest.


    "Yes," Bao''er nodded, rubbing her face against Zhong Shan''s chest.


    "I understand, I''ll be more careful. Don''t worry. This time, I returned to Tiang Ind to focus on improving my cultivation. Once my cultivation level is higher, there will be fewer dangers," Zhong Shan reassured them.


    "I heard from Sister Bao''er that our activities can increase your cultivation. So from now on, Sister Bao''er and I will help you every day," Tian Ling''er whispered shyly, her face turning red.


    Bao''er also blushed, feeling embarrassed that the conversation had turned to her.


    "Hahaha, good!" Zhong Shanughed heartily.


    Two monthster.


    After traveling extensively and finally getting some rxation, Zhong Shan entered seclusion once again.


    Zhong Shan''s hidden form had extraordinary potential, far surpassing that of his true body. If his true body achieved a breakthrough, the hidden form would immediately follow suit without any obstacles. Zhong Shan even considered that if his true body ascended to immortality, his hidden form might also ascend effortlessly. Such an idea would undoubtedly astonish anyone who heard it.


    He gently took out five emperor essences, the primordial spirits of Emperor Realm experts, sealed within fist-sized transparent beads.


    Zhong Shan felt no pity for these Emperor Realm primordial spirits. The energy they contained was incredibly potent, and even he couldn''t absorb any one of them directly. They had to be given to the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    For the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, no amount of energy was too much.


    With a flick of his hand, Zhong Shan fed all five emperor essences to the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, which quickly absorbed and refined them, transferring the needed energy into Zhong Shan''s body.


    Outside the hall where Zhong Shan was in seclusion, the sky was soon filled with endless thunderclouds.


    The clouds expanded from ten thousand acres to a hundred thousand acres.


    Everyone in Xuanjing was astonished, looking up at the sky where the massive thunderclouds covered the sun, appearing as if the heavens were copsing. The citizens knelt in prayer, terrified.


    The clouds continued to grow, reaching a million acres.


    In an eastern hall on Tiang Ind, Di Xuansha opened his eyes, which gleamed with a sharp light. He knew that Zhong Shan was undergoing a breakthrough, but the speed was astonishing.


    A million acres! Seventh level of the Integration stage!


    "Freak!" Di Xuansha cursed before returning to his cultivation.


    A freak indeed. Di Xuansha was well aware of Zhong Shan''s extraordinary potential. In just a few decades, Zhong Shan had reached the Integration stage. Now, he had quickly advanced from the fifth to the seventh level of the Integration stage, almost as if he had taken some miraculous drug.


    Di Xuansha didn''t like meddling in others'' affairs, but Zhong Shan''s rapid progress was undeniably impressive and perplexing.

 Chapter 481: The Vast Abyssal Spring

    <h4>Chapter 481: The Vast Abyssal Spring</h4>


    Breaking through two levels with the help of five Emperor Extreme Realm Primordial Spirits only allowed him to advance two levels in the Nascent Soul Stage?


    Zhong Shan felt conflicted. Emperor Extreme Realm Primordial Spirits were incredibly rare in all of Shenzhou. Using five of them only to advance two levels in his cultivation? What would he do for future cultivation? There were still the Royal Extreme Realm, Emperor Extreme Realm, and Heavenly Extreme Realm to conquer.


    If only his skeletal structure could integrate with his hidden body!


    With a deep sigh, Zhong Shan rose. Outside, the thunderclouds that had covered millions of acres gradually dispersed.


    In the days that followed, Zhong Shan constantly pondered ways to enhance his cultivation. He needed to increase his power quickly. After the ancient divine power of Pangu opened the heavens and earth, he would have to face the world alone.


    If he seeded in opening the heavens and earth, he would confront countless powerful beings from the vast world beyond, a realm that even immortals inhabited. That ce was filled with innumerable strong individuals and immense fortunes, a ce of extreme danger.


    Conversely, if the ancient divine power of Pangu failed to open the heavens, the Da Luo Dynasty would inevitably copse. The eastern and southern regions of Shenzhou would enter an era of great chaos. The Great Zhenn Empire would also face numerous shes with various forces to secure its ce. Thus, his cultivation had to be strengthened, and quickly.


    What else could he do?


    The Millennial Dragon Pearl, yes, the Millennial Dragon Pearl promised by Hao Meili. He would have to wait for Hao Meili.


    Oh, there was another treasure.


    A Ninth Grade Magical Treasure, the Radiant Sun Sword, a Ninth Grade Magical Treasure on Tiang Ind that suppressed an abyssal spring. In the past, after breaking through to the Innate Stage and before entering the Kaiyang Sect, he encountered a fierce god in a miasma forest and obtained the Heavenly Demon Body Refining Art. At that time, the fierce god was trying to forcibly extract the Radiant Sun Sword but failed. Only he knew the location.


    The time hade to retrieve the Radiant Sun Sword.


    Stepping out of the closed cultivation hall, he found Bao''er and Ling''er anxiously waiting outside, with Wei Taizhong also in attendance.


    "Master, are you alright?" Bao''er immediately approached, checking Zhong Shan over.


    "Your master is destined for greatness, how could anything happen to him?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Taizhong, inform the Eight Wolf Generals of the Wolf God Hall and the Chief Astronomer toe see me immediately," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Wei Taizhong promptly responded.


    As Wei Taizhong left, Zhong Shanforted the two women. Just as they were chatting andughing, Zhong Shan''s pupils suddenly contracted, and the two women also furrowed their brows, looking up into the sky.


    They had suddenly sensed the spiritual energy of heaven and earth bing extremely chaotic. No, it was bing turbulent, with various energies colliding and producing a multitude of colors.


    These colors were high up in the sky, invisible to the naked eye of ordinary people.


    A great spiritual upheaval?


    What was going on?


    In Xuanying, any general with cultivation immediately readied their troops, preparing for an enemy attack.


    "I know, I know," Tian Ling''er suddenly eximed with joy.


    "Hmm?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow slightly.


    "The Heavenly Furnace, it''s the Heavenly Furnace! The Empty Spirit Beads, they appear once every hundred years, but only for one day. We must collect as many as possible," Tian Ling''er said excitedly.


    Empty Spirit Beads? Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up as he recalled the information he had collected in the past.


    "Convey my decree!" Zhong Shan suddenlymanded loudly.


    Zhong Shan''s voice echoed throughout Xuanying, reaching every corner of the Great Zhenn Empire. Everyone paused and listened attentively; the Emperor was issuing an order.


    "The Heavenly Furnace has appeared, and the sky is filled with Empty Spirit Beads. Everyone is to prepare to collect them and submit them to the national treasury. Each Empty Spirit Bead will be exchanged for one low-grade spirit stone. You have one day," Zhong Shan announced.


    "Long live the Emperor!" The citizens and officials of Xuanying quickly responded.


    Zhong Shan''s words spread rapidly, carried outward from Xuanying to the surrounding cities. With more and more cultivators present, the news traveled swiftly.


    Before long, dense fog began to form in the distant sky. Using their spiritual senses, cultivators quickly discovered strands of strange energy condensing within the mist, rapidly forming spherical objects��Empty Spirit Beads.


    Every hundred meters or so, there was one, filling the sky.


    Following Zhong Shan''s decree, anyone capable of flying shot up into the sky topete for the countless Empty Spirit Beads. These beads could be used to forge magical treasures or exchanged for spirit stones with the empire. Who wouldn''t want them? Naturally, everyone who could fly ascended to the heavens.


    In the past, at the Kaiyang Sect, people fought desperately over a single Empty Spirit Bead. Now, with an entire empire collecting them for him, things were vastly different.


    "Your Majesty!" Wei Taizhong returned, apanied by nine others��eight Wolf Generals and the Mud Bodhisattva wrapped in a ck robe.


    The Wolf Generals nced curiously at the Mud Bodhisattva.


    "Your Majesty, did you summon us for the Empty Spirit Beads?" asked the Azure Cloud Wolf General.


    "No, you will apany me on a mission shortly. By the way, why hasn''t Xianxiane recently?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "The Young Master is on the verge of a breakthrough, so the Supreme took her back," the Azure Cloud Wolf General replied.


    "A breakthrough, that''s good!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Why did you summon me?" the Mud Bodhisattva asked with a hint of doubt.


    "There is a ce I want you to check for any Feng Shui formations that might be obstructing us," Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh?" The Mud Bodhisattva was slightly surprised.


    Then, Zhong Shan, Bao''er, Ling''er, the eight Wolf Generals, the Mud Bodhisattva, and Wei Taizhong took to the skies, ignoring the Empty Spirit Beads, and headed north.


    Soon, they arrived at the miasma forest where Zhong Shan had previously sealed the entrance with stones. With a wave of his sleeve, a strong wind blew away all the rocks. The miasma was also dispersed by Zhong Shan''s spell, but soon, thick ck gas began to emerge from the ground.


    "An Abyssal Spring?" The Mud Bodhisattva, a Feng Shui master, immediately noticed the anomaly by observing the surrounding mountains.


    "There is a Ninth Grade Magical Treasure here, the Radiant Sun Sword. I need to extract it. Are there any Feng Shui formations in the way?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, there is indeed a special Feng Shui formation," the Mud Bodhisattva replied, slightly perplexed.


    "How do you know there''s an Abyssal Spring and the Radiant Sun Sword here, Master?" Bao''er asked curiously.


    "I stumbled upon it by chance. Let the Mud Bodhisattva break the formation first," Zhong Shan said.


    "This Feng Shui formation has no offensive properties. You only need to form a small [***] formation to extract the sword," the Mud Bodhisattva remarked, still puzzled.


    "No offensive properties?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "Yes, it''s a warning Feng Shui formation, advising future generations not to destroy or extract anything from within. Your Majesty, I suggest we leave it be," the Mud Bodhisattva advised with a frown.


    "No, we must extract it. Azure Cloud, choose six men and follow the Mud Bodhisattva''s instructions to form the small [***] formation and extract the Radiant Sun Sword," Zhong Shan decisivelymanded.


    "Yes!" Azure Cloud Wolf Generalplied without hesitation.


    The Mud Bodhisattva initially wanted to object but reconsidered. Being a proud individual, he believed no one else''s Feng Shui techniques could surpass his own. If danger arose, he could always seal it himself.


    With that thought, the Mud Bodhisattva stepped back, no longer opposing the n.


    Zhong Shan, along with Bao''er, Ling''er, and Wei Taizhong, moved to a distant peak.


    A Ninth Grade Magical Treasure capable of suppressing an Abyssal Spring would tempt anyone. However, Zhong Shan wasn''t worried. The Eight Wolf Generals were loyal to the Great Zhenn Empire, and being on Tiang Ind, within Emperor Xuan Xia''s territory, there was no concern about the generals hoarding the treasure.


    Watching patiently, Zhong Shan saw six Wolf Generals begin their ritual, mimicking the movements of the fierce god from long ago.


    Their hands glowed with different colors as they extended their power underground, positioning themselves in a unique formation. They continuously performed hand seals, channeling their energy into the ground.


    "Hummmmmmmmmmmmmmm��"


    Golden light erupted from beneath the six Wolf Generals, piercing the earth and shooting into the sky. The entire sky turned golden.


    Massive amounts of soil were disced by the powerful magic. A strong tremor was followed by a piercing sword cry, sending all the birds and beasts in the forest scattering.


    Intense heat radiated outward, so strong it could be felt even from a great distance.


    This was the power of the Radiant Sun Sword. Zhong Shan watched as the sword, glowing with golden light, rose from the ground like a rising sun, illuminating everything.


    "A Ninth Grade Magical Treasure indeed," the Mud Bodhisattva remarked in awe.


    Within the sun-like glow, Zhong Shan saw the Radiant Sun Sword, entirely golden, emitting countless rays of light. As the sword emerged, thick ck gas spread around it. The Abyssal Spring''s yin energy burst forth, rapidly turning everything it touched into frost. Vegetation froze into ice sculptures upon contact with the cold energy.


    "What a massive Abyssal Spring! No, why is it thisrge? This is bad, the first wave of yin energy is emerging. Your Majesty, retreat quickly!" the Mud Bodhisattva suddenly shouted.


    Unfortunately, his warning came toote. The Abyssal Spring''s opening wasn''t just at the distant sword''s location; it was so vast that it extended beneath the peak where Zhong Shan stood.


    "Boom!"


    The peak under Zhong Shan''s feet shattered. Endless ck gas surged into the sky, threatening to engulf everyone.


    Danger! Zhong Shan''s heart tightened. The yin energy was extremely cold and dark; contact would shatter flesh. After countless years of suppression, this first wave would be the most powerful.


    Without hesitation, Zhong Shan grabbed the two women, activating his protective shield to its maximum. His eyes widened, and a massive shadow appeared before him.


    Eight enormous shadow tails formed a protective barrier around Zhong Shan, the two women, and Wei Taizhong. A gigantic mouth opened menacingly towards the Abyssal Spring below.


    "Swallow!"


    In an instant, the yin energy enveloped everyone, shooting skyward. The powerful surge created an incredibly thickyer of energy waves in the sky.


    "Your Majesty!" The distant Wolf Generals shouted in terror.


    "How could this be?" The Mud Bodhisattva, shielding himself, stared in shock at the scene before him.

 Chapter 482: Stirring Up Trouble Again

    <h4>Chapter 482: Stirring Up Trouble Again</h4>


    The Mud Bodhisattva protected himself as he stared at Zhong Shan, his eyes filled with disbelief.


    Not far away, a gigantic transparent creature stood before Zhong Shan. Its eight multicolored tails, both ethereal and tangible, enveloped Zhong Shan, Bao''er, Ling''er, and Wei Taizhong. A massive mouth, resembling a gluttonous beast, voraciously devoured everything in its path.


    This was the yin energy of the Abyssal Spring, and it was being swallowed whole? Moreover, the creature was still hungrily absorbing the surrounding yin energy. The puzzling part was that this creature seemed tock a stomach��where was all the energy going?


    "The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails!" the Mud Bodhisattva suddenly realized, his eyes widening in shock.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails? How could it be?


    In an instant, the Mud Bodhisattva went on full alert, bracing himself against the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails. He knew all too well what a monstrous entity it was. His master had struggled against a juvenile Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails, barely managing to seal it. But now?


    This Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails was muchrger than the one his master had described. But something was different. His master had spoken of an unrestrained, earth-swallowing, sky-devouring creature, yet this one was protecting Zhong Shan.


    Not far away, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails continued to devour the yin energy while swiftly retreating from the Abyssal Spring''s vicinity with Zhong Shan.


    The opening of the Abyssal Spring was incredibly vast.


    Endless yin energy surged skyward, turning the sky intensely cold. Frost and snow descended furiously, and the surrounding mountains and rivers began to freeze rapidly. The earth turned to ice, and frost filled the sky.


    The entire world suddenly became a pristine white.


    The eight Wolf Generals, carrying the Radiant Sun Sword, quickly retreated to Zhong Shan.


    After retreating a significant distance, everyone breathed a sigh of relief. The Mud Bodhisattva kept his eyes fixed on Zhong Shan.


    Before Zhong Shan, the colossal Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails suddenly shrank and disappeared into Zhong Shan''s body.


    Seeing the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails retract into Zhong Shan, the Mud Bodhisattva''s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets. How was this possible? The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails had entered Zhong Shan''s body?


    "Was that... the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails?" the Mud Bodhisattva could no longer contain himself.


    No matter howposed he usually was, this moment shattered his poise.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "But, how...?" The Mud Bodhisattva was utterly baffled.


    "It''s a replica, modeled after the one in Fengling City," Zhong Shan exined.


    Hearing this, the Mud Bodhisattva exhaled deeply. A replica? That made more sense. No wonder.


    Yet, the effect just now? The Mud Bodhisattva frowned once more.


    In the distance, the yin energy continued to spew forth wildly.


    "Your Majesty, this is the Radiant Sun Sword," the Azure Cloud Wolf General said.


    "Boom!"


    Suddenly, a tremendous sound echoed from deep underground, shaking Tiang Ind like an earthquake.


    The terrifying tremor sent shockwaves of fear through everyone on Tiang Ind. An earthquake?


    Tiang Ind, an ind as vast as the Earth Zhong Shan once knew, was shaking. It was iprehensible, but Zhong Shan''s measurements were precise��if anything, the ind wasrger.


    A tsunami rose around Tiang Ind, with massive waves surging forth.


    Chapter 482: Stirring Up Trouble Again


    On the eastern side of Tiang Ind, Emperor Xuan Xia sat in his grand hall, surrounded by elite wolf n members. After the massive tremor, nearly all the wolf n warriors stood up in alert.


    Inside the hall, Emperor Xuan Xia opened his eyes, a look of astonishment shing across them. He remained motionless, quickly extending his spiritual sense. As he probed the situation, his mouth opened slightly in surprise.


    "Zhong Shan? It''s you again?" Emperor Xuan Xia muttered with a peculiar expression.


    Then, with a flicker, Emperor Xuan Xia vanished from his spot, heading towards the Abyssal Spring where Zhong Shan was.


    Zhong Shan and hispanions stood at a distance, hearts racing. The earlier explosion had been incredibly intense��an earthquake? How massive an earthquake must it have been? Countless mountains in the vicinity had copsed due to the tremor.


    What was going on?


    As everyone stood in uncertain amazement, Zhong Shan suddenly felt a slight tilt in the ground beneath him, tilting towards the south.


    The tilt was so slight that ordinary people wouldn''t notice, but the cultivators could easily sense the odd phenomenon.


    They all felt the tilt and, upon closer inspection, realized it wasn''t just the ground beneath them��everything around them was tilting. The entire Tiang Ind was tilting.


    Was Tiang Ind copsing?


    The tilt grew more pronounced. Everyone''s hearts tightened. What was happening?


    "Mud Bodhisattva, what is going on?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Is Tiang Ind about to copse?" the Mud Bodhisattva replied, equally astonished.


    At that moment, everyone understood the warning of the earlier Feng Shui formation. Extracting the Radiant Sun Sword had triggered the copse of Tiang Ind. How could something so absurd be happening?


    "Whoosh!"


    Suddenly, a figure appeared before them.


    "Emperor Xuan Xia?" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Greetings, Supreme One!" the eight Wolf Generals immediately saluted.


    It was indeed Emperor Xuan Xia who had arrived first at the scene.


    He looked at Zhong Shan with aplex expression. Zhong Shan indeed brought chaos wherever he went. After creating upheaval in Shenzhou, he returned only to put Tiang Ind on the brink of copse. Could he be the reincarnation of the god of destruction?


    Emperor Xuan Xia then turned his gaze to the gigantic Abyssal Spring. With a flip of his hand, he struck the Abyssal Spring, sealing its entrance. Ice and snow rapidly descended, freezing over the entire area.


    "You severed Tiang Ind''s earth vein?" Emperor Xuan Xia asked with a perplexed tone afterpleting the seal.


    Zhong Shan was speechless. How could he have known?


    "Wasn''t the Abyssal Spring sealed?" Zhong Shan asked sheepishly.


    "Sealed? What good does that do? The earth vein was never sturdy to begin with. With the Abyssal Spring''s interference, a senior used the Radiant Sun Sword to suppress it a thousand years ago. Your actions allowed the umted yin energy to sever the earth vein. Even with my intervention, it will only dy the copse for a century. After that, Tiang Ind will be no more," Emperor Xuan Xia sighed.


    "Moreover, I didn''t seal the Abyssal Spring; I merely redirected the yin energy to the periphery of Tiang Ind," Emperor Xuan Xia exined.


    Indeed, at that moment, the sea around Tiang Ind was frozen for thirty thousand miles, the powerful cold sealing the entire ocean.


    Emperor Xuan Xia looked at Zhong Shan, unsure of what to say.


    Emperor Xuan Xia could see Zhong Shan''s grand ambition and talent. The wolf n could surely regain its former glory under his leadership. But this was their ancestral home, the very heart of the wolf n. This reckless action was putting their home at risk, which stirred a trace of resentment in Emperor Xuan Xia.


    "A hundred years? Can you stabilize it for a hundred years?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Zhong Shan knew the gravity of the situation. Tiang Ind was their stronghold. If it copsed, it would be an unimaginable disaster.


    "Yes, at most a hundred years," Emperor Xuan Xia nodded.


    "Taizhong!" Zhong Shan suddenly called out.


    "Yes, Master!" Wei Taizhong responded immediately.


    "Summon Lu Jianping to see me!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Wei Taizhong quickly turned and flew back to Xuanying.


    Emperor Xuan Xia looked at Zhong Shan curiously. He had heard about some of the astonishing things Zhong Shan had done in Shenzhou. Zhong Shan''s ability to turn the impossible into reality was well known. Could he pull off another miracle this time?


    The severed earth vein meant Tiang Ind would no longer be nourished by the earth. Over time, the spiritual energy would dissipate, and all life would perish. How could Zhong Shan possibly fix this?


    "Can you really reverse this?" Emperor Xuan Xia asked with a hint of skepticism.


    "We''ll do our best and leave the rest to fate," Zhong Shan replied.


    Soon, Lu Jianping arrived.


    "Minister Lu Jianping, at your service, Your Majesty. Long live the Emperor!" Lu Jianping bowed deeply.


    Emperor Xuan Xia watched Lu Jianping with a strange look. What could this man possibly do?


    "Lu Jianping, tell me, what progress have you made on the Lingxiao Pce?" Zhong Shan asked.


    The Lingxiao Pce? Emperor Xuan Xia was slightly taken aback but continued to listen intently. He knew Zhong Shan often had unconventional ns.


    "Your Majesty, the foundation has beenid. In at most ten years, we will see significant progress," Lu Jianping reported.


    "Ten years? Howrge is the area of the Lingxiao Pce?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Twice the size of Xuanying," Lu Jianping said proudly.


    "Too small!" Zhong Shan dered.


    "Too small?" Lu Jianping was stunned.


    "What about Tiang Ind?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    Lu Jianping''s mouth opened wide in shock, his expression incredulous.


    "Tian... Tian... Tiang Ind?" Lu Jianping was clearly shaken by Zhong Shan''s suggestion.


    The scale of Tiang Ind was vast,parable to a hundred Xuanying cities, or even more.


    "The earthquake severed Tiang Ind from the earth vein. It''s now an isted entity. Can it be...?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Lu Jianping looked at Zhong Shan, swallowing hard. "Theoretically, yes."


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan breathed a sigh of relief.


    "How long would it take?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Well, theoretically possible, but the scale of the project is enormous!" Lu Jianping frowned.


    "Expand the Ministry of Works five hundred times!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Five... five hundred times?" Lu Jianping clutched his chest, shocked. Zhong Shan''s boldness was beyond anything he had ever seen.


    "With a five hundred times expansion, how long would it take toplete?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "With a five hundred times expansion, let me calcte... about a hundred and twenty years. And it will require a massive supply of materials," Lu Jianping said, taking a deep breath.


    "I will give you eighty years. Build the Lingxiao Pce within this time. Any materials you need, I will provide. If there aren''t enough workers, recruit more. If that''s still not enough, recruit from all over Shenzhou. You have only eighty years, understood?" Zhong Shanmanded decisively.


    "Yes, yes!" Lu Jianping responded immediately.

 Chapter 483: The Enchantress Who Could Captivate Even Women

    <h4>Chapter 483: The Enchantress Who Could Captivate Even Women</h4>


    Eighty years to transform all of Tiang Ind into a grand Lingxiao Pce? Emperor Xuan Xia stared at Zhong Shan in disbelief. Lingxiao Pce? A pce above the clouds? The entire Tiang Ind? To Emperor Xuan Xia, Zhong Shan no longer seemed merely ambitious��he seemed mad. The n was utterly insane.


    "Emperor Xuan Xia, you heard what I said earlier. The eastern part of Tiang Ind is your territory, and I have never interfered there. But to save Tiang Ind, this is the only way. I hope the wolf n can fully cooperate," Zhong Shan said, looking at Emperor Xuan Xia.


    "Lingxiao Pce? What does that mean?" Emperor Xuan Xia asked for confirmation.


    "Lingxiao Pce? Heh, that name isn''t quite fitting now. Let''s call it Tiangong instead. Since Tiang Ind can no longer connect to the earth, we''ll make it rise into the sky, soaring above the clouds," Zhong Shan exined.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Emperor Xuan Xia took a deep look at him. "You are the most audacious emperor I have ever met. I will support you."


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan nodded. With Emperor Xuan Xia''s support, it meant more than a thousand words.


    Support from Emperor Xuan Xia? This was the second time he had expressed his approval. The first was when they signed the wolf n contract; this was the second.


    "Not long from now, Gushentong will attempt to create a new world. Will you attend?" Zhong Shan asked Emperor Xuan Xia.


    "Create a new world? Whether it seeds or not, I will naturally go. Not only me, but almost every Heaven Extreme Realm expert in Shenzhou will be there," Emperor Xuan Xia said.


    "Everyone?" Zhong Shan''s heart tightened, and he quickly understood everything.


    Such a grand event��who could resist attending? Heaven Extreme Realm? The Heaven Extreme Realm experts of Shenzhou, it would indeed be a grand gathering!


    After parting ways with Emperor Xuan Xia, Zhong Shan and his entourage returned to the Xuanying Imperial Pce.


    In a grand hall, the Radiant Sun Sword, a powerful Ninth Grade magical treasure, was ced.


    This was a treasure coveted by many. But to Zhong Shan, it was just something to be consumed.


    Although not for his own consumption, if others knew Zhong Shan intended to absorb a Ninth Grade magical treasure, they would be mortified. Of course, they didn''t know that long ago, Zhong Shan had already consumed a Ninth Grade magical treasure, the Three-Petaled Golden Lotus. This was just a continuation.


    Ninth Grade magical treasures, the most powerful artifacts crafted by the strongest in Shenzhou, were limited in number. For Zhong Shan to consume them one by one was truly terrifying for those in the know.


    That day, the Empty Spirit Beads were systematically collected by the experts of the Great Zhenn Empire, continuously filling the treasury. Zhong Shan didn''t need to manage these trivial matters��officials would handle the ounting and final approval.


    Zhong Shan watched the Radiant Sun Sword, waiting. Sure enough, two dayster...


    "Zhong Shan, is your Tiang Ind about to copse?"


    A voice filled with excitement echoed from outside the hall. Naturally, it was Hao Meili.


    Hao Meili, carrying the small golden dragon and followed by the Western Poison Emperor, entered the hall where Zhong Shan was.


    The moment the Western Poison Emperor entered, his eyes lit up. "What a magnificent sword!"


    The Radiant Sun Sword, a Ninth Grade magical treasure, was indeed extraordinary.


    "How did you know?" Zhong Shan asked Hao Meili.


    Of course, Zhong Shan knew how Hao Meili had found out, but asking this way would give her more excitement. This was the art of conversation.


    "How could I not know? Three days ago, there was a massive tremor on Tiang Ind, causing a huge tsunami in the East Sea. The Dragon King said something major had happened on Tiang Ind, so I rushed over. When I saw the sea frozen for thirty thousand miles, I knew your Tiang Ind was doomed," Hao Meili eximed.


    "Yes, the earth vein has been severed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Hao Meili was feeling quite pleased with herself.


    "What? The earth vein was severed?" The Western Poison Emperor''s gaze shifted sharply to the Radiant Sun Sword.


    The earth vein severed? That spelled disaster.


    "This sword originally suppressed the Abyssal Spring. I pulled it out, and in doing so, the Abyssal Spring''s energy shattered the earth vein," Zhong Shan exined nonchntly.


    The Western Poison Emperor looked at the Radiant Sun Sword, then at Zhong Shan. After a moment of stunned silence, he said, "You... you truly have guts!"


    The Western Poison Emperor didn''t know how to view Zhong Shan. This man was unbelievable. Just recently, he had caused an uproar in the Sacred Land, taking something so valuable that it left the ce in disarray. Now, he had nearly destroyed the vast Tiang Ind. Was he the god of destruction?


    "What guts? It''s just an ind," Hao Meili retorted, rolling her eyes.


    Hao Meili''s boldness left Zhong Shan and the Western Poison Emperor speechless.


    "This is what I got for you from the Dragon Pce. I could only get one," Hao Meili said, producing the Millennial Dragon Pearl and handing it to Zhong Shan.


    The Western Poison Emperor, seeing the Millennial Dragon Pearl, felt a pang of jealousy. Why did all the good things end up in the hands of outsiders?


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan said bluntly, epting the Millennial Dragon Pearl under the Western Poison Emperor''s envious gaze.


    "Look on the bright side, senior!" Zhong Shan patted the Western Poison Emperor on the shoulder.


    The Western Poison Emperor nearly exploded with frustration at Zhong Shan''s fort."


    A yearter, Zhong Shan, apanied by Mr. Corpse and Shui Wuhen, returned to the Ancient Holy Capital.


    The Radiant Sun Sword and the Millennial Dragon Pearl were invaluable treasures. After bidding farewell to Hao Meili, Zhong Shan had the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails refine them, collecting the residual energy for himself.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tails had grown significantly stronger after consuming so many top-tier treasures. When the Abyssal Spring erupted, it even formed a solid entity to protect Zhong Shan. Since it was connected to Zhong Shan''s spirit, he treated it well. It was an incredibly powerful and rare treasure, and its true strength was bing increasingly apparent.


    The energy from the refined treasures propelled Zhong Shan''s cultivation, raising him from the seventh to the tenth level of the Consolidation Stage.


    However, he hit a bottleneck. Further advancement required more than just energy��it needed a fateful opportunity, an extraordinary chance.


    For others, such opportunities were rare, but Zhong Shan believed in his ability to seize or even create them.


    The Ancient Holy Capital was enveloped in an atmosphere of intense anticipation. In just six months, the Emperor of the Da Luo Dynasty would attempt to create a new world.


    Numerous powerful individuals had already gathered around the Ancient Holy Capital, but none dared to act rashly. They remained on the outskirts, waiting.


    The four Crown Princes were all stationed in the Ancient Holy Capital.


    Openly, there were five known Emperor Extreme Realm experts: Righteous King, Great Mysterious King, Taizong King, Battle King, and the Grandmaster Illusion Dragon yer. The true number of hidden experts within the Da Luo Dynasty was unknown, but the dynasty''s strength was undoubtedly formidable.


    Moreover, other dynasties and sacrednds wouldn''t tolerate any troublemakers.


    Everyone was waiting for Gushentong to amass enough energy to create a new world.


    It was a monumental endeavor. If sessful, it would benefit not only the Da Luo Dynasty but also countless beings in this realm.


    The morning court sessions of the Da Luo Dynasty continued as usual. At this moment, everything was running smoothly, and the sessions were swift.


    When Zhong Shan arrived at the Ancient Holy Capital, he immediately sensed its unusual calmness. It wasn''t unrestful; it was overly peaceful.


    Upon arriving at the Eastern Mansion, Zhong Shan stopped abruptly. In front of the mansion stood a beautiful woman, Gu Qianyou.


    Gu Qianyou''s eyes were filled with joy and excitement.


    Mr. Corpse and Shui Wuhen wisely slipped away through a side gate, leaving Zhong Shan alone.


    "Qianyou!" Zhong Shan called out softly as he walked toward her.


    "You''re back!" Gu Qianyou greeted him with the happiness and excitement of a wife seeing her husband return home.


    Holding Gu Qianyou''s hand, Zhong Shan smiled contentedly and led her into the mansion.


    Gu Qianyou had returned a month earlier and, finding Zhong Shan absent, had stayed at the Eastern Mansion, waiting for him. A month may not seem long, but when longing for someone, time drags on unbearably. Finally, Zhong Shan returned.


    Zhong Shan understood Princess Qianyou''s feelings. He put aside worldly concerns and spent two days alone with her, easing their longing for each other.


    On the floating ind, in a pavilion, Zhong Shan and Gu Qianyou drank fragrant tea while admiring the prosperous scenery of the Ancient Holy Capital.


    "Did you meet the leader of the Seven Star Hall?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, the leader of the Seven Star Hall is an incredibly charming woman. There are few in this world who can resist her allure," Gu Qianyou said in amazement.


    "Oh? Is there really someone more beautiful than you?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "Of course there is. Sister Bao''er and Sister Ling''er, for instance," Gu Qianyou replied, rolling her eyes.


    "Them? Each of you has your unique charm, like spring orchids and autumn chrysanthemums. You are all the most beautiful in the world," Zhong Shan said immediately.


    "Really? Can you arrange a grand scene with ten thousand phoenixes singing and millions of blessings just for me?" Gu Qianyou pouted, a hint of jealousy in her eyes.


    Zhong Shan didn''t me her for being jealous. After all, jealousyes from caring. Besides, in love, Gu Qianyou was still a woman.


    "Of course I can. If you wish, I can arrange an unprecedentedly grand scene for you right now," Zhong Shan promised.


    "Alright, alright, save the grand scene for the other women you''ve tricked," Gu Qianyou said with augh.


    Gu Qianyou was sensible and knew this wasn''t the time for petty arguments.


    "But speaking of the leader of the Seven Star Hall, she truly is extraordinarily beautiful. She doesn''t fall into the usualparisons. She surpasses all other flowers in the world. She''s simply beautiful, so beautiful it takes your breath away. Anyone who sees her will be mesmerized, even women," Gu Qianyou remarked.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was intrigued. Was there really such a perfect woman?


    "I saw her by chance because she always wears a veil. Without it, it''s hard to ensure no one would be fatally enchanted by her beauty," Gu Qianyou exined.


    "Is it that exaggerated?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise. He knew Gu Qianyou wouldn''t exaggerate.


    "Do you know who she is?" Gu Qianyou asked, a surprising glint in her eyes.


    "Uh? Could it be someone I know?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "You might not know her personally, but you have definitely seen her," Gu Qianyou said with a mysterious smile.


    Seen her? Zhong Shan frowned. If Gu Qianyou said he had seen her, it must be true. But who could possibly match such a perfect description? Suddenly, a beautiful figure shed through Zhong Shan''s mind.

 Chapter 484: Nu Qinghui

    <h4>Chapter 484: Nu Qinghui</h4>


    "Have I seen her?" Zhong Shan frowned, pondering. If Qianyou said he had seen her, then he must have. It had to be from his own experiences he had shared with her. But who could live up to such a perfect description? Suddenly, a beautiful figure shed in Zhong Shan''s mind.


    Gu Qianyou, being a highly intelligent woman, immediately guessed from Zhong Shan''s brightening eyes that he had remembered.


    "Big flirt, your eyes light up when you think of beautiful women!" Gu Qianyou teased.


    Zhong Shan looked at Gu Qianyou and chuckled helplessly. How could he exin? Nheless, he took her yful reproach in stride, appreciating these moments that added vor to life.


    "But I never expected that Nian Youyou''s master, Nu Qinghui, would be the leader of the Seven Star Hall," Zhong Shan remarked, sighing.


    Nu Qinghui, Nian Youyou''s master, was the woman whose bell could shatter the souls of a million soldiers during the conflict with the Great Bright Empire.


    "I didn''t expect it either. But there''s something even more surprising," Gu Qianyou suddenly said.


    "There''s more?" Zhong Shan asked, intrigued.


    "I also saw Zi Xun," Gu Qianyou revealed.


    "Elder Zi Xun?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised. He picked up a cup of tea, trying to hide a hint of mncholy in his heart.


    Elder Zi Xun, or Zi Xun Fairy, had aplex connection with him. After the Longmen Conference, she had identally be involved with him. Later, she rmended him as an elder to the Kaiyang Sect, leading him to Shenzhou. They had met again near the Yuheng Sect at an immortal''s remnant, where he had given her a fairy rose.


    "Yes, and do you know? Zi Xun is actually Nu Qinghui''s daughter," Gu Qianyou said.


    "Pfft!" Zhong Shan sprayed his tea in shock. What? Her daughter? Nu Qinghui''s daughter? Nian Youyou''s senior sister?


    Zhong Shan stared at Gu Qianyou, utterly incredulous.


    "But, it should be her daughter from a previous life," Gu Qianyou quickly added.


    "Previous life?" Zhong Shan didn''t understand.


    "Zi Xun is Nu Qinghui''s daughter from her previous life with the Holy Emperor. Now, Nu Qinghui is the reincarnated version of herself," Gu Qianyou exined.


    "Uh, this is soplicated," Zhong Shan said, puzzled.


    "Yes, and for some reason, Zi Xun seems unwilling to acknowledge her as her mother, even as a reincarnation," Gu Qianyou said after some thought.


    "Since it''s not her previous self, Zi Xun might be resistant. But this means Zi Xun is the Holy Emperor''s daughter, a princess?" Zhong Shan pondered.


    "Yes, but she refuses to ept it. I don''t know why, but Zi Xun seems very averse to both Nu Qinghui and the Holy Emperor," Gu Qianyou said.


    "The affairs of the previous generation are always filled withplexity," Zhong Shan sighed.


    "However, Nu Qinghui did teach me some incredibly wondrous spells and cultivation methods not of this world," Gu Qianyou said, smiling.


    "Not of this world?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, it seems Nu Qinghui brought them back from the underworld, and their effects are extraordinarily powerful," Gu Qianyou said excitedly.


    "That''s good to hear," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "There''s only six months left. I wonder if the Holy Emperor will seed," Gu Qianyou suddenly said, her expression turning wistful.


    "Creating a new world is a monumental feat. Even if it doesn''t seed, it will be remembered throughout history. Moreover, opening a new world requires pioneers. If no one dares to try, it will never seed," Zhong Shan said.


    Gu Qianyou nodded thoughtfully, appreciating Zhong Shan''s perspective on this historic endeavor.


    "Mm!" Gu Qianyou exhaled deeply.


    "Marshal, Mr. Shui Jing requests an audience," Liu Wushuang announced as she approached.


    Mr. Shui Jing? Zhong Shan and Gu Qianyou exchanged nces.


    "Please, let him in!" Zhong Shan immediately said.


    "Yes!"


    Soon, Mr. Shui Jing was escorted in.


    "Shui Jing greets Mr. Zhong Shan and Princess Qianyou," Mr. Shui Jing said, bowing respectfully.


    Gu Qianyou nodded without saying much. Zhong Shan stepped forward and said, "Please, Mr. Shui Jing, have a seat."


    "Thank you," Mr. Shui Jing replied with a deep breath.


    The three of them sat down again, and Zhong Shan personally poured a cup of tea for Mr. Shui Jing.


    "Thank you," Mr. Shui Jing said, appreciating the gesture.


    "What brings you here, Mr. Shui Jing? Is there something important?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Mr. Shui Jing smiled bitterly. "It''s about the same matter as before. I''m sorry to trouble you again."


    "No trouble at all. As friends, I will naturally do my utmost to help," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    Zhong Shan was genuinely happy, not just because he could assist Mr. Shui Jing, but also because the Great Zhenn Empire would soon have another powerful ally.


    Mr. Shui Jing looked at Gu Qianyou, unsure how to begin. Noticing his hesitation, Gu Qianyou was about to excuse herself.


    "Qianyou is my confidante. You don''t need to hide anything from her. She stands by me unconditionally," Zhong Shan said immediately.


    Hearing this, Gu Qianyou felt a warmth in her heart and gave Zhong Shan a loving nce.


    Mr. Shui Jing, slightly taken aback, nodded in appreciation. "In this regard, I must admit I fall shortpared to you."


    "Love is not like a battlefield; it can''t bepared. Did you visit Liu Yanyan after you returned?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, after the Da Luo army marched towards the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, I went to see Yanyan," Mr. Shui Jing replied.


    Zhong Shan silently gave Mr. Shui Jing a thumbs-up, recognizing his strategic timing when the Great Mysterious King was absent.


    "I told her about our past lives and, at thest moment, used her own words to awaken her memories. She remembered everything in an instant��all our past together. She remembered me," Mr. Shui Jing said, frowning.


    "She remembered? That''s good. What happened next?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I left her then, giving her time to process everything. She cried so much, but I couldn''t bring myself tofort her," Mr. Shui Jing said, showing a hint of pain.


    "You did the right thing. She needs to fully grasp the depth of her past emotions. If you had approached her too soon, it could have disrupted her thoughts and lowered your standing in her mind," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "After the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss was destroyed, she returned to her old self but became much more reserved and thinner. She looked at me with affection and reluctance, but refused to acknowledge me. I know she''s suffering," Mr. Shui Jing said, his pain evident.


    "Yes, a love from a past life tormenting two people in this life. She is likely in love with the Great Mysterious King as well. Her current status means she can''t be with you. She has given herself to the Great Mysterious King, and she can''t be with you in this life," Zhong Shan sighed.


    "Yes, why couldn''t I have met her first?" Mr. Shui Jing''s eyes welled up with tears.


    "What do you n to do now?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I know. If I forcefully take her away, she might eventually ept it, but over time, she would still be heartbroken over the Great Mysterious King. Her inner torment wouldn''t lessen, and that would be too cruel. I don''t want to see her suffer," Mr. Shui Jing said.


    Zhong Shan looked at Mr. Shui Jing and shook his head. "Mr. Shui Jing, do you know what your greatest weakness is?"


    "Being too rigid?" Mr. Shui Jing replied with a self-deprecating smile.


    "No, it''s being too upright. Do you know that being overly rigid can harm both yourself and others?" Zhong Shan said.


    "You possess world-shaking strategies and an unparalleled ability to foresee events, but you often overlook yourself, striving to maintain a perfect image. You must understand that no one is perfect��not me, not the Holy Emperor, and not you," Zhong Shan said earnestly.


    "Maybe so. As long as she isn''t hurt, it''s fine," Mr. Shui Jing said with a bitter smile.


    "Your fear of hurting her is what causes her deeper pain," Zhong Shan said.


    "Then what should I do? You are the expert," Mr. Shui Jing asked, eager for guidance.


    Zhong Shan smiled wryly. How had he be an expert?


    Gu Qianyou, standing nearby, couldn''t help butugh. Indeed, with everything Zhong Shan had aplished over the years, it was hard not to see him as an expert.


    "If you can ease her pain, I will give you this feather fan," Mr. Shui Jing said, taking out the fan.


    "A feather fan?" Zhong Shan asked, curious.


    "This is a Ninth Grade magical treasure," Mr. Shui Jing said.


    Ninth Grade? Gu Qianyou was slightly surprised, while Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up. However, after the initial excitement, he quickly looked away. Though he needed Ninth Grade magical treasures, he couldn''t ept this one.


    "Since you put it that way, let''s talk business. I do have a method, though it''s somewhat unconventional," Zhong Shan said.


    When Mr. Shui Jing had mentioned their past lives years ago, Zhong Shan had been racking his brain for a solution, preparing for this day.


    "Oh?" Mr. Shui Jing could tell Zhong Shan was setting terms. He didn''t mind; he just wanted a solution.


    "I can remove all of Liu Yanyan''s pain, leaving no regrets or sorrow. She will leave with you willingly, without any attachment to the Great Mysterious King," Zhong Shan said.


    "Really?" Mr. Shui Jing''s eyes brightened.


    "No, wait, are you nning to seal her memories?" Mr. Shui Jing frowned, a hint of reluctance in his eyes.


    "Of course not. Sealing memories is ast resort, and since she''s already experienced this once, the seal could break at any time. Why would I leave such a w?" Zhong Shanughed.


    "Really?"


    "Absolutely!" Zhong Shan assured him.


    "What do you want?" Mr. Shui Jing asked, slightly excited.


    Zhong Shan was known for his integrity. When he made a promise, he kept it.


    "I want you," Zhong Shan said, pointing at Mr. Shui Jing.


    "Me?"


    "Yes, your intellect," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    Mr. Shui Jing thought for a moment, squinting his eyes before nodding heavily. Though he felt some resistance, his love for Liu Yanyan outweighed it.


    "Alright, then follow my lead. Qianyou and I will assist you fully," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath and smiling.


    "Hmm. You mentioned the method is unconventional? How so?" Mr. Shui Jing asked, puzzled.


    "Unconventional as in a bit of scheming," Zhong Shan said,ughing at Mr. Shui Jing''s startled expression.


    To Gu Qianyou, Zhong Shan''s smile was one of pride; to Mr. Shui Jing, it was somewhat unsettling.

 Chapter 485: Too Evil

    <h4>Chapter 485: Too Evil</h4>


    Zhong Shan''s unconventional strategy began to unfold.


    To win over this extraordinary talent, Zhong Shan had conducted thorough investigations and meticulous nning to ensure everything was perfect.


    At Princess Qianyou''s mansion, Zhong Shan and Gu Qianyou watched as Mr. Shui Jing was briefed.


    "In theing days, Qianyou will invite Liu Yanyan to stay at the princess''s mansion, which means you will be able to see her every day," Zhong Shan said.


    "Mm," Mr. Shui Jing nodded.


    "Qianyou mentioned that Liu Yanyan is an excellent painter. This is perfect because you y the guqin, correct?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes," Mr. Shui Jing nodded, frowning in thought.


    "We will arrange for you to have some time alone with her. You don''t need to talk much, just persuade her to paint a picture for you," Zhong Shan said.


    "Paint a picture?" Mr. Shui Jing was puzzled. How would that help?


    "Exactly, based on the mood of the piece you y, she will paint a scene," Zhong Shan exined.


    "I y a piece, and she paints andscape or an object based on the mood of the music?" Mr. Shui Jing nodded.


    "Yes, pour the imagery of your past lives into your music, preferablyndscapes or objects you both saw. Once she finishes the painting, leave it here in the hall. Neither of you takes it away, so she sees it every time she visits," Zhong Shan said.


    "Is it that simple?" Mr. Shui Jing was skeptical. As soon as he questioned it, he seemed to understand and nodded.


    Mr. Shui Jing knew that to make someone remember something deeply, it wasn''t about constant external reminders but embedding it in their subconscious. Even a tiny, weak impression in the subconscious was stronger than a thousand external reminders.


    Soon enough, Liu Yanyan was invited over by Gu Qianyou.


    At Princess Qianyou''s mansion, she quickly encountered Mr. Shui Jing. With his vast wisdom, Mr. Shui Jing knew how to handle things perfectly. Besides, he was a perfectionist.


    A heartfelt melody and a reflective painting.


    Liu Yanyan had no reason to refuse painting a scene inspired by the music. She soonpleted a serene valley painting. Staring at it, she felt aplex mix of emotions, unsure how to face Zhou Jian. This was a ce they had visited during an outing in their past life.


    Mr. Shui Jing (Zhou Jian) didn''t linger too long, leaving the guqin behind and departing in sorrow.


    Liu Yanyan, seeing him off, stood by the painting, touching the guqin with a sigh.


    Zhong Shan apanied Mr. Shui Jing as they left.


    "Well done," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Mr. Shui Jing shook his head with a bitter smile.


    "Don''t worry, I said it would work, and it will. Continue this daily routine��y a piece each day and have her paint a picture every day," Zhong Shan said.


    "What effect will this have? What''s the purpose?" Mr. Shui Jing asked. The awkwardness between him and Liu Yanyan was palpable. Painting pictures wouldn''t resolve anything or achieve any goal, would it?


    "This is all part of the setup. Trust me, women''s hearts can''t be measured with data," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright, I trust you," Mr. Shui Jing sighed and nodded reluctantly.


    From then on, Mr. Shui Jing visited Princess Qianyou''s mansion daily. His routine was simple: y a piece on the guqin, and Liu Yanyan would paint a corresponding picture based on the music.


    Initially, Liu Yanyan was reserved, but gradually, she became ustomed to the routine, opening up and painting a new ink wash painting each day. Listening to the melodies and creating the paintings brought her an indescribable sense offort.


    Listening to the guqin became a habit for her. The grand hall, adorned with numerous ink paintings, became a gallery of her heartfelt creations. The scenes, each painted with great effort, were beautiful and satisfying.


    Each day, after Mr. Shui Jing left, Liu Yanyan would spend some time admiring the paintings.


    "Sister Yanyan, did you paint all these? They''re such beautiful ces," Gu Qianyou would timely praise, bringing joy to Liu Yanyan''s heart.


    In the Eastern Mansion, Zhong Shan and Mr. Shui Jing sat together.


    "How many pieces have you yed in total?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s been two months, sixty pieces," Mr. Shui Jing replied.


    "Sixty pieces? So that''s sixty paintings?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Yes," Mr. Shui Jing nodded.


    "Good. For the next three days, don''t go there," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Don''t go?" Mr. Shui Jing felt a bit reluctant but nodded.


    For the next three days, Liu Yanyan waited in the grand hall. From morning until evening, she waited, but Mr. Shui Jing never appeared.


    Looking at the guqin, Liu Yanyan''s brow furrowed with a mix of reluctance andplexity. She sighed, then turned to look at the sixty paintings she had created over the past two months.


    The second day, she came again, but Mr. Shui Jing still didn''t show up. She spent the entire day staring at the sixty paintings, her mood growing increasingly dejected.


    On the third day, Mr. Shui Jing remained absent. Liu Yanyan clenched her fists and stayed in the hall all night. Even when Gu Qianyou came to talk to her, Liu Yanyan was disinterested and deeply depressed.


    On the fourth day, Mr. Shui Jing, under Zhong Shan''s direction, appeared. His arrival seemed so ordinary, so unremarkable, but to Liu Yanyan, it felt like an eternity, like countless lifetimes.


    The moment Liu Yanyan saw Mr. Shui Jing, a smile unconsciously bloomed on her face. It was a bright smile, purely from the heart, filled with joy.


    Seeing her expression, Mr. Shui Jing felt a surge of happiness, but ording to Zhong Shan''s script, he had to put on a serious face.


    Walking up to Liu Yanyan, he didn''t touch the guqin but instead looked into her eyes and sighed.


    Seeing Mr. Shui Jing''s expression, Liu Yanyan felt a pang of panic.


    "I have to leave," Mr. Shui Jing said.


    "Leave?" Liu Yanyan was taken aback.


    "Yes, I have to leave, to get away from this ce of sorrow," Mr. Shui Jing said with a hint of pain.


    Liu Yanyan''s heart sank. Her earlier joy vanished instantly.


    "Where are you going?" Liu Yanyan asked.


    "I don''t know," Mr. Shui Jing replied.


    Biting her lip, Liu Yanyan asked again, "When will you be back?"


    "I don''t know. Maybe never," Mr. Shui Jing said.


    Hearing his words, Liu Yanyan felt a sharp pain in her heart, sinking into a deep sadness.


    "Noting back? He''s noting back?" Liu Yanyan''s mind raced as she watched Mr. Shui Jing.


    Mr. Shui Jing walked to the edge of the hall and began carefully taking down each of Liu Yanyan''s paintings, cing them in arge album.


    One by one, until he had taken fifty paintings, Liu Yanyan, holding back her tears, rushed forward to stop him.


    "What are you doing?" Liu Yanyan bit her lip.


    "I need to take these paintings," Mr. Shui Jing replied.


    "No, you can''t take them," Liu Yanyan shook her head, her eyes filled with extreme reluctance.


    "I must. These are mine; I earned them with sixty pieces of music," Mr. Shui Jing said, continuing to pack up the remaining paintings.


    Hearing Mr. Shui Jing''s words, Liu Yanyan was momentarily stunned. Yes, he had earned them with his sixty pieces. But why did her heart feel so reluctant? Was it the paintings she couldn''t part with, or was it him?


    After carefully packing all the paintings into a storage bracelet, Mr. Shui Jing walked to the guqin and took it as well. Without saying another word, he walked out of the hall with a heart full of sorrow, following Zhong Shan''s instructions.


    Liu Yanyan watched as Mr. Shui Jing left, unable to hold back her tears any longer. She looked around��no paintings, no guqin, and no Mr. Shui Jing. Everything was gone. She felt utterly abandoned, as if she had been cast into the world''s farthest corner, where no one could find her.


    "Senior sister, what''s wrong? Why are you crying? Where did Mr. Shui Jing go?" Princess Qianyou asked as she appeared at the perfect moment.


    Shaking her head, Liu Yanyan said, "Qianyou, I need to go back."


    With that, Liu Yanyan left, her mood extremely low, and returned to the Great Mysterious King''s pce, supported by a group of attendants.


    At the Eastern Mansion.


    "Why did you take everything��paintings, guqin? Couldn''t you leave her something?" Mr. Shui Jing frowned.


    "You''re too close to see it clearly. The paintings, the guqin, and the person are all interconnected in her heart. Simply leaving would not have had a deep enough impact. The guqin amplifies emotions, and the paintings intensify them, all to highlight your presence. You are the key. Trust me, before the Holy Emperor opens the heavens, you will get your wish," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Really?" Mr. Shui Jing asked, surprised.


    "You can''t see the subtle changes while you''re in the middle of it. Just follow my instructions. The first step isplete. Now for the second step��undermining the Great Mysterious King''s pce from within," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Undermine from within?"


    "Fan Xiaoying," Zhong Shan said.


    "Fan Xiaoying?"


    "Yes, Fan Xiaoying, the sister of the Great Mysterious King''s top advisor, Fan Yipin. She is the king''s favorite consort and is very protective of him. She also harbors some resentment towards Liu Yanyan. During these two months, I''ve used some subtle methods to let Fan Xiaoying see your interactions with Liu Yanyan, focusing on ''key'' moments. She will now work to undermine the Great Mysterious King''s rtionship with Liu Yanyan, with ''solid evidence'' to back her up," Zhong Shan said confidently, sipping his tea.


    Mr. Shui Jing looked at Zhong Shan in amazement. The intricate scheming used by Zhong Shan was truly masterful. "This kind of battlefield cunning, used so subtly by Zhong Shan, is indeed very evil," he thought.

 Chapter 486: Prelude to Creation

    <h4>Chapter 486: Prelude to Creation</h4>


    As expected, ording to Zhong Shan''s n, Fan Yipin''s sister, Fan Xiaoying, the most beloved concubine of the Great Mysterious King, witnessed the entire affair��Liu Yanyan''s secret rendezvous with Mr. Shui Jing.


    She even saw the shocking sight of Mr. Shui Jing leaving the Ancient Holy Capital, only to vomit ck blood in a mountain valley, where a pack of low-level wolves quickly tore him apart. Fan Xiaoying witnessed the gruesome scene and was horrified.


    Did Liu Yanyan poison this wild man in his tea? she wondered.


    "What a venomous woman," Fan Xiaoying thought as she hurried back to the pce after seeing Mr. Shui Jing''s corpse torn apart.


    Back in the pce, Fan Xiaoying tossed and turned, her mind racing. This adulterous woman, already married, had gone out to seduce another man for two months, and after tiring of him, she poisoned him. This woman could not stay by the king''s side; she was too dangerous. Someday, she might even kill Fan Xiaoying herself, or worse, harm the Great Mysterious King.


    Fan Xiaoying had never liked Liu Yanyan much. After what she witnessed, her dislike magnified a hundredfold. That night, Fan Xiaoying couldn''t sleep. However, she didn''t immediately tell the Great Mysterious King or Fan Yipin. Concubine jealousy wasn''t something the king wanted to see, and stalking her sister wives might not only incur the king''s wrath but also make other concubines wary of her.


    Two dayster, unable to bear it any longer, Fan Xiaoying saw Liu Yanyan preparing some drinks for the Great Mysterious King and watched with bated breath, afraid there might be poison.


    In the king''s study, Fan Xiaoying broke the silence.


    "My lord, Shui Jing is dead!" she eximed.


    "Huh?" The Great Mysterious King looked up from his documents, puzzled.


    "I saw it with my own eyes. Three days ago, Shui Jing died, poisoned..." Fan Xiaoying began to recount.


    "Impossible. Who could poison him? Don''t speak nonsense," the Great Mysterious King interrupted.


    "It''s true. I saw it with my own eyes. The one who poisoned him was..."


    The Great Mysterious King frowned at Fan Xiaoying. He knew her character well; she was a sensible woman and wouldn''t make baseless usations. But Shui Jing? It was more believable that a powerful enemy killed him rather than being poisoned. Shui Jing''s wisdom wasn''t for show.


    "Who?" the Great Mysterious King pressed.


    "Liu Yanyan!" Fan Xiaoying dered firmly.


    The Great Mysterious King''s pupils contracted sharply. Liu Yanyan? Indeed, only she could have poisoned Shui Jing.


    "This woman is too dangerous. And she''s been behaving improperlytely..." Fan Xiaoying proceeded to tell the Great Mysterious King everything she had "witnessed."


    The Great Mysterious King listened in silence, his frown deepening.


    "Wait until your brother arrives," the Great Mysterious King said, sitting at his desk with a furrowed brow.


    Soon, Fan Yipin, the king''s chief advisor, was summoned to the study. After understanding the situation, he sent people to search the Ancient Holy Capital, finding no trace of Shui Jing.


    After dismissing Fan Xiaoying, Fan Yipin discussed the matter privately with the Great Mysterious King.


    "My lord, although Xiaoying is my sister, I won''t be biased. There are many inconsistencies in her story; we must proceed with caution," Fan Yipin advised.


    "Yes," the Great Mysterious King agreed.


    "There are two possibilities. One, as Xiaoying said, Liu Yanyan poisoned Shui Jing for your sake, eliminating external interference. This shows her to be extremely cunning. The other possibility is that this is all a setup," Fan Yipin continued.


    The Great Mysterious King remained silent, contemting the situation.


    "A trap?" the Great Mysterious King asked.


    "Yes, because this involves Zhong Shan. Shui Jing wouldn''t do something like this, but Zhong Shan would. He wants to separate Liu Yanyan from you and deliberately put on a show for my not-so-bright sister. He aimed to make you neglect Liu Yanyan, allowing Shui Jing to win her heart back," Fan Yipin exined.


    "A show?" the Great Mysterious King questioned.


    "Yes, but there is a key person in this��Liu Yanyan. If the second possibility is true, then Liu Yanyan is not as wicked as Xiaoying described. Given her feelings for you, she wouldn''t participate in such a deception. She will tell you everything if you ask. If she isn''t acting, then everything she says will be true. Thus, a simple test will reveal the truth," Fan Yipin suggested.


    "Indeed, it must be one of these two possibilities," the Great Mysterious King agreed.


    That evening, the Great Mysterious King summoned Liu Yanyan to probe the truth.


    "Yanyan, I''ve heard that you''ve been meeting with Shui Jing these past two months?" the Great Mysterious King asked.


    "Forgive me, my lord," Liu Yanyan admitted, feeling no need to lie to him.


    "I won''t me you. I just don''t want you to see him again," the Great Mysterious King sighed, observing her expression.


    A sh of pain crossed Liu Yanyan''s face as she said, "Never again. You will never see him again."


    Liu Yanyan remembered Shui Jing''s words. He said he was leaving and wouldn''t return. Since he wouldn''t being back, naturally, the Great Mysterious King wouldn''t see him again.


    However, to the Great Mysterious King''s ears, this sounded like a revtion. "Never see him again"? Could it be that Shui Jing was already dead? Such certainty and finality could only mean she knew this for sure. And her expression, filled with deep reminiscence, suggested profound sorrow. If Shui Jing had merely left, she wouldn''t be this distressed. Only his death could exin such depth of emotion. But the Great Mysterious King could not have known that Liu Yanyan''s deep mncholy was not only for Shui Jing but also for the sixty paintings, sixty melodies, a guqin, and a deeply cherished love rekindled.


    Believing he had "understood everything," the Great Mysterious King''s attitude toward Liu Yanyan turned cold.


    "You may go. I don''t need your service tonight," he said coldly.


    Liu Yanyan, bewildered, sighed and left, not understanding what had gone wrong. She hadn''t lied.


    From that day, Liu Yanyan noticed the Great Mysterious King''s attitude changing. He became more distant.


    Fan Xiaoying, knowing the "truth," began to sow discord, spreading rumors and subtly informing the other concubines. The concubines kept silent but united against Liu Yanyan, filling her life with gossip and istion.


    The concubines, after confirming the story''s authenticity, whispered incessantly in the Great Mysterious King''s ear.


    The Great Mysterious King''s pce turned into a battlefield of intrigue. Liu Yanyan, unable to defend herself, found herself increasingly isted and was eventually confined to the cold pce.


    From the harsh words of the other concubines to the Great Mysterious King''s cold treatment, Liu Yanyan''s heart broke. She saw through everything, realizing that the Great Mysterious King''s affection was merely a reflection of his feelings for Shui Jing. She was just a pawn.


    With that, Zhong Shan''s second phase of the n seeded.


    Liu Yanyan''s heartache made her see through the world''s illusions. Though her feelings for the Great Mysterious King persisted, they began to fade with time, bing ever more distant.


    In her despair, Liu Yanyan still had supporters among the Great Mysterious King''s followers, but their respect waned. With the tree fallen, the monkeys scattered; her former allies quickly turned into spies for the other concubines, reporting her every move.


    Indeed, as the saying goes, extreme yin gives birth to yang, and extreme opposites ultimately reverse. Even amidst the ashes, there remains a spark of hope. For the Great Mysterious King, that spark was Shui Jing. This tiny me of hope sustained Liu Yanyan, preventing her from copsing entirely. However, this hope felt distant, as Shui Jing had said he would never return.


    Liu Yanyan dered that she was returning to the Yuheng Sect, her birthce, intending to spend the rest of her life there. The Great Mysterious King did not stop her, and the other concubines were more than happy to see her leave sooner rather thanter.


    Thus, Liu Yanyan left, taking with her the spark of hope, leaving the Ancient Holy Capital behind.


    As for whether the Great Mysterious King or the other concubines would harm her, Zhong Shan didn''t concern himself with that. Liu Yanyan''s journey back would inevitably lead her to "coincidentally" meet Shui Jing again.


    In the Eastern Mansion, Zhong Shan and Gu Qianyou discussed the recent developments.


    "So, you''ve gained another strategist," Gu Qianyou said with a smile.


    "It''s the will of heaven! I''m merely following the flow," Zhong Shan replied, his mood bright, joining in the lighthearted banter.


    "How many girls have you tricked with this method?" Gu Qianyou asked, suddenly turning serious.


    "None at all. I''m very upright," Zhong Shan quickly replied.


    "Pfft!" Gu Qianyou burst intoughter.


    "What''s so funny?"


    "You, upright? You''re wicked to the core," Gu Qianyou said, though her tone softened, her face flushing as she saw Zhong Shan''s yful smile.


    "I heard the four crown princes have been summoned to the Ancient Sacred Hall?" Zhong Shan suddenly remembered something.


    "Yes, the Holy Emperor has something to discuss with them privately," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    "At the final moment, what could he be discussing? Could it be the method to elevate the dynasty?" Zhong Shan pondered, frowning.


    "The method to elevate the dynasty?" Gu Qianyou''s brow furrowed as she considered the possibility. At such a critical time, what else could warrant a secret meeting with the four crown princes?


    "The Holy Emperor is making contingency ns. This doesn''t seem right," Zhong Shan said with a hint of worry.


    "What''s not right?" Gu Qianyou asked.


    "To create a new world, to battle the heavens, it''s either you die or I perish. Either the heavens or the Holy Emperor must die. At this moment, there should be no contingency ns. If it were me, I would charge forward without hesitation. Victory is the only option. All preparations should be for victory. If you can''t convince yourself, how can you expect fate to be on your side?"


    "You''re talking about self-deception."


    "No, this mindset is crucial. Even if you''re weak, you must move forward with unwavering determination. Body, mind, spirit, intent, and will��all must be focused on advancing without hesitation. The Holy Emperor, if he''s only seeking immortality, it''s one thing to teach the method for dynasty elevation, but creating a new world is different. It requires immense courage. I hope the Holy Emperor isn''t preparing hisst will and testament," Zhong Shan said, deeply concerned.


    Gu Qianyou nodded thoughtfully, understanding the gravity of Zhong Shan''s perspective. The sess of such a monumental endeavor depended heavily on the unyielding spirit and absolute conviction of the leader.

 Chapter 487: Immortal-Slaying Flying Dagger

    <h4>Chapter 487: Immortal-ying Flying Dagger</h4>


    The day for Gushentong to create a new world finally arrived.


    On this day, all the citizens of the Ancient Holy Capital evacuated, not because they were forbidden to stay, but because they didn''t dare. Creating a new world was a monumental endeavor known throughout thend, filled with both awe and danger.


    In the past, bing an immortal meant merely resisting the heavenly might, gaining heaven''s approval, and surviving the cmities to transcend the mortal realm. But now, creating a new world meant directly challenging the heavens. It was a life-or-death struggle between Gushentong and the world itself.


    The idea of defying the heavens was often boasted by braggart cultivators. Who could truly defy the heavens? It was usually a joke. But Gushentong was turning that boast into reality. He not only intended to defy the heavens but to y them, to kill this very world. This level of audacitymanded the respect of countless powerful individuals across thend.


    For tens of thousands of years, who had such audacity?


    The citizens and soldiers of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty withdrew from the Ancient Holy Capital but did not go far. They stood at the periphery, along with countless fierce tigers, the national beast of the Tiger Tribe, and nearly all the powerful beings gathered there.


    At this moment, everyone waited quietly, anticipating Gushentong''s appearance.


    Above the Ancient Holy Capital, an endless sea of thunderclouds covered the entire city, with lightning shing within. The thunderclouds held lightning of various colors��red, blue, purple, yellow��each bolt exuding a different fiery tongue, intimidating to behold. The deep, rumbling sounds shook the soul, spreading a faint terror from the depths of one''s being.


    Everyone on the periphery waited silently, eyes fixed on the distant Ancient Holy Capital. This was Gushentong''s stage, a stage no one else could interfere with. They eagerly awaited his appearance and how he would create a new world.


    The Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty''s army was spread out in all directions.


    Two months prior, the three other heavenly dynasties and the three sacrednds had issued a decree: regardless of any past grievances with the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, no one was to act against its citizens for six months. Thus, fifty billion members of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty received unprecedented protection.


    Anyone causing trouble during this time would face relentless pursuit by the three heavenly dynasties and the three sacrednds.


    Fifty billion members��what a vast number. At this moment, it wasn''t just the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty fighting, but the entire world supporting this battle.


    Elite troops of the Ancient Holy Capital were stationed at strategic points outside the city.


    Zhong Shan was positioned in the southeast, atop a massive mountain peak.


    With him were Gu Qianyou, Shui Wuhen, Liu Wushuang, Zhihuo, Ah Da, Ah Er, and Mr. Corpse, all watching the distant thundercloud-covered, resplendent Ancient Holy Capital.


    Gu Qianyou held Zhong Shan''s hand, her eyes showing a trace of worry. Zhong Shan gently squeezed her hand tofort her.


    Suddenly, another person appeared beside Zhong Shan. This person arrived so abruptly that no one noticed until they were already there, startling everyone into preparing for battle.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty," Zhihuo quickly said.


    The neer was none other than Emperor Xuan Xia, the supreme leader of the Wolf Tribe.


    "Your Majesty?" Ah Da and Ah Er gasped, realizing who stood before them. Seeing Zhong Shan''s calm demeanor, they suppressed their shock and continued observing Emperor Xuan Xia.


    "Move to that mountain peak," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" The group immediately retreated to another peak, leaving only Zhong Shan, Gu Qianyou, and Emperor Xuan Xia on the original peak.


    The tension in the air was palpable as they watched the unfolding events, preparing for the monumental task ahead.


    "You arete," Zhong Shan remarked.


    "No, I''m not. It hasn''t started yet," Emperor Xuan Xia replied, shaking his head.


    "Whoosh"


    On a nearby empty mountain peak, another figure suddenly appeared.


    Dressed in white, with an elegant demeanor, was Xuan Yuan, the master of the Genesis Divine Pce.


    From a distance, Xuan Yuan spotted Zhong Shan and the others. He raised an eyebrow in surprise, then smiled and nodded.


    Zhong Shan nodded back.


    "You know Xuan Yuan?" Emperor Xuan Xia asked, a bit surprised.


    "We met on Phoenix Ind," Zhong Shan replied.


    From a distant northern peak, Zhong Shan noticed two more familiar figures. No, two strong figures: Nie Fancheng and Wu Jiutian.


    The two powerful individuals stood atop a distant peak, surrounded by numerous elite soldiers of the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, who cleared the area to provide them with a quiet space.


    Nie Fancheng wore a t heavenly crown and a purple dragon robe, making him stand out. He was surrounded by many elite Da Li Heavenly Dynasty soldiers, ensuring that no one dared to disturb them.


    Emperor Xuan Xia nodded in acknowledgment toward Nie Fancheng and Wu Jiutian, who also nodded back.


    It was clear that the Heavenly Extreme Realm experts were acknowledging each other''s presence, a gesture of both etiquette and respect.


    Farther north, Zhong Shan couldn''t see clearly due to the distance, even with his cultivation level. However, from Emperor Xuan Xia''s repeated nodding, it was evident that there were more Heavenly Extreme Realm experts present.


    Emperor Xuan Xia''s gaze continued to sweep the area, and he even nodded to someone on the opposite side of the Ancient Holy Capital, indicating the presence of another Heavenly Extreme Realm expert.


    As Emperor Xuan Xia''s gaze moved to the west, Zhong Shan followed his line of sight.


    In the west, there was another high mountain peak. This peak was particrly tall, but what was more notable was that it had only one person standing on it. For a hundred miles around, no one dared to approach.


    Zhong Shan had noticed earlier that anyone who entered that hundred-mile radius quickly retreated with a look of panic, drenched in cold sweat. This was a testament to the immense power and arrogance of the person on the peak.


    Standing atop the peak was a man who appeared to be around forty years old. He had a prominent forehead, giving him a fierce look. His long golden hair flowed behind him, and he stood like a mountain towering to the sky. His golden robe fluttered in the wind. The most peculiar thing was the enormous golden gourd slung across his back.


    The gourd was almost half his height, slung diagonally across his back, looking very cumbersome. When Emperor Xuan Xia looked at him, the man seemed to sense it and turned his head to look at Emperor Xuan Xia.


    At that nce, Zhong Shan felt an overwhelming sharpness, an unstoppable force emanating from his gaze, as if this sharp look alone could bore holes into him.


    There was no overt pressure, yet Zhong Shan felt an immense, unrelenting pressure from that gaze. It was the gaze of an absolute ruler, one who looked down on all beings.


    This man and his gourd seemed to dominate everything.


    The man nodded at Emperor Xuan Xia, who nodded back.


    After acknowledging Emperor Xuan Xia, the man turned his gaze to Zhong Shan. That look made Zhong Shan feel immobilized, as if he were pinned down.


    It was terrifying. Was this the Heavenly Extreme Realm? It seemed that the Heavenly Extreme Realm experts he had encountered before had been courteous, restraining their aura. Without such restraint, even a mere look from them would be overwhelming.


    Only when the man in the golden robe turned away did Zhong Shan feel relief, the pressure dissipating. But the intense pressure had left him drenched in cold sweat.


    "He''s terrifying. Who is that?" Gu Qianyou asked, astonished.


    "Him?" Emperor Xuan Xia smiled slightly.


    Zhong Shan also looked at Emperor Xuan Xia, clearly wanting to know the identity of the formidable man.


    "He is the Lord of the Longevity Realm, Shen Ya Daojun," Emperor Xuan Xia exined.


    "Shen Ya Daojun?" Zhong Shan murmured, impressed.


    A Daojun was equivalent to a Buddha or a Holy Emperor, a being of immense power and supreme status in the heavenly hierarchy, not only incredibly strong but also holding a top-tier position in the realm.


    "Is he stronger than you?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I don''t know. We''ve neverpared our strengths. However, everyone who has fought Shen Ya Daojun has perished. No one has survived his attacks," Emperor Xuan Xia replied.


    "What''s the gourd on his back?" Gu Qianyou inquired.


    "That? Legend has it that it''s the most powerful artifact ever crafted in the Longevity Realm, but for nearly ten thousand years, no one could forge it. Shen Ya Daojun, being a prodigy, managed to create it in his generation. It''s called the Immortal-ying Flying Dagger," Emperor Xuan Xia said.


    "The Immortal-ying Flying Dagger? But that''s a gourd!" Gu Qianyou said, puzzled.


    "The Immortal-ying Flying Dagger is said to be nurtured inside the gourd. Don''t underestimate it. Among all the treasures in the history of Shenzhou, the Immortal-ying Flying Dagger definitely ranks in the top ten. Its exact rank is unknown because these top ten treasures have never beenpared directly. However, it''s said that this Immortal-ying Flying Dagger can even cut through ordinary immortal artifacts, making it incredibly formidable," Emperor Xuan Xia exined.


    "Cut through immortal artifacts?" Gu Qianyou was astonished.


    "Immortal artifacts? Don''t ce too much importance on them. What''s an immortal artifact? Gushentong''s treasure can also cut through ordinary immortal artifacts, but he rarely uses it. Even during the siege of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, he didn''t bring it out," Emperor Xuan Xia said.


    "Really?" Gu Qianyou said, her face lighting up with joy.


    "Haha, would I lie to you? Gushentong''s treasure, refined with his soul and spirit, is also among the top eighteen treasures in history. It''s immensely powerful, with an even greater reputation than the Immortal-ying Flying Dagger," Emperor Xuan Xia said.


    "Oh? Why didn''t I know?" Gu Qianyou frowned.


    "The rulers of empires are the best at hiding their strengths. Gushentong, being the peak of them all, naturally hides the deepest. His soul-refined treasure has been used fewer than five times in total, so many people don''t know about it. I happened to see it once," Emperor Xuan Xia said, frowning deeply.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The Heaven-Opening Axe," Emperor Xuan Xia said, taking a deep breath.


    "Also one of the top eighteen treasures in history, like the Immortal-ying Flying Dagger?" Zhong Shan asked, astonished.


    "Yes, the top eighteen treasures have always had a history of immense power. As for Shen Ya Daojun, until you be stronger, it''s best not to provoke him. He is extremely fierce and filled with killing intent, not someone you can afford to antagonize now. Also, his temper isn''t very good, so avoid him if possible," Emperor Xuan Xia advised.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Provoking him? One nce from him nearly pierced me. I''d have to be crazy to provoke him. Still, Zhong Shan was grateful for Emperor Xuan Xia''s warning.


    Shen Ya Daojun. Zhong Shan took one more nce at the proud man in the distance, then turned his attention back to the Ancient Holy Capital.

 Chapter 488: The Heaven-Dispersing Seal

    <h4>Chapter 488: The Heaven-Dispersing Seal</h4>


    Supreme beings arrived one after another, surrounding the Ancient Holy Capital. The ground trembled as people stood in awe. Even though they couldn''t see all the formidable figures, just a few were enough to fill their hearts with shock.


    The supreme leaders of various demon tribes, the emperors of the three great heavenly dynasties, and the masters of the three sacrednds��all were revered by everyone in Shenzhou.


    As for those thinking of causing trouble? It was simply impossible. Even if someone had such thoughts before, they now hid away. Trying to cause chaos now would guarantee an unknown death.


    Billions of eyes were focused on the Ancient Holy Capital.


    In the sky, thunderclouds continued to spit fiery tongues of lightning, repeatedly striking the city below.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!" Thunderbolts bombarded the buildings in the Ancient Holy Capital, as if impatiently waiting for Gushentong to take action.


    Finally, the thunderclouds grew impatient. A massive purple lightning bolt shot straight towards the central Ancient Holy Hall.


    The powerful purple lightning bolt, ten feet thick, was capable of instantly killing even an emperor-level expert.


    "Boom!"


    Above the Ancient Holy Hall, a sudden burst of golden light repelled the powerful purple lightning bolt, sending it back into the thunderclouds, causing endless lightning to churn.


    The thunderclouds continued to spew electric tongues, as if contemting their next move.


    "ng!"


    The grand doors of the Ancient Holy Hall suddenly opened. From inside, a figure in golden robes walked out slowly.


    Gushentong wore a t heavenly crown and a Nine-Dragon Cloud-Smoky Robe. Step by step, he walked out. The lightning did not attack immediately, instead waiting for Gushentong to steady himself.


    Standing before the Ancient Holy Hall, Gushentong''s calm gaze swept around, as if taking onest look at everything he had achieved over the past ten thousand years.


    Wherever his gaze fell, the citizens outside the Ancient Holy Capital felt an almost irresistible urge to kneel in worship.


    This was the sky of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty��Gushentong.


    After surveying the surroundings, Gushentong''s expression hardened. He looked up at the sky, eyes wide open. The entire world of the Ancient Holy Capital seemed to turn golden, as if Gushentong had be a giant sun, shining in all directions.


    The enormous sea of fortune above him poured down like a heavenly river, all rushing into Gushentong''s body. This was his fortune; he had the right tomand it all.


    The fortune of the Ancient Holy Capital was vast. After destroying the five great dynasties and annihting the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, its fortune had be the greatest in Shenzhou. In just half an hour, all of it surged into Gushentong, infusing his body, ready to be used for creating a new world.


    With such absorption, Gushentong''s control over the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty became even more perfect. At that moment, Zhong Shan felt a peculiar sensation, as if he had connected with Gushentong.


    Not only Zhong Shan, but all fifty billion citizens of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty felt a simr connection, a strange link to an indescribable ce, as if their fates were intertwined.


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. Was Gushentong nning to take all the people of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty with him in his endeavor to create a new world?


    At this moment, Zhong Shan recalled the decree from two months ago by the three great heavenly dynasties and the three sacrednds, prohibiting anyone from attacking the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty''s people for half a year. Did they know what was happening?


    Gushentong, now infused with the fortune of his entire dynasty, seemed ready for the monumental task ahead. The world held its breath, awaiting the unfolding of this unprecedented event.


    Zhong Shan swallowed hard, focusing on the distant scene.


    In the distance, after absorbing all the boundless fortune, Gushentong suddenly turned his hand, revealing a yellowish substance resembling mud. It looked very ordinary.


    "Houtu?" Emperor Xuan Xia frowned slightly.


    Houtu? Zhong Shan''s eyes widened. He knew what Houtu was. It was from the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, taken by Gushentong. Could this be the true form of Houtu, fully refined by Gushentong?


    Gushentong tilted his hand slightly, and Houtu fell to the ground like a lump of mud. As soon as it hit the ground, it rapidly expanded, covering the Ancient Holy Hall and spreading outwards, soon covering the entire Ancient Holy Capital. It thinned out, leaving only a faint yellow glow.


    "Houtu to stabilize the earth. As expected," Emperor Xuan Xia nodded.


    "Houtu to stabilize the earth? What does that mean?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Creating a new world involves both the heavens and the earth. This brings threats from both above and below. By using Houtu to seal the earth, Gushentong eliminates any threat from below, allowing him to focus solely on the heavens," Emperor Xuan Xia exined.


    "Houtu is that powerful?" Zhong Shan was astonished.


    "Houtu originates from the Grand Thousand Worlds, not from this realm. Its effects are naturally unparalleled," Emperor Xuan Xia confirmed.


    With Houtu stabilizing the earth, it was as if a deration of war had been made against the heavens, marking the official start of the event.


    In the thunderclouds, endless powerful lightning bolts suddenly rushed toward Gushentong. The sky was filled with cascading lightning, crashing down like a copsed heavenly river. The immense power was so intense that even Zhong Shan, from a distance, instinctively activated his protective shield to fend off the shockwaves.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Each thunderous explosion shook the heavens and the earth. The colossal impacts caused the surroundings to tremble. The intensity was so overwhelming that some weaker individuals began bleeding from their seven orifices and even fainted. The outer regions of the Ancient Holy Capital saw numerous mountains copse. However, the truly spiritual mountains, nourished by abundant spiritual energy, stood tall and proud.


    Inside the Ancient Holy Capital, where Gushentong was, the scene was even more magnificent. Each massive lightning bolt was as powerful as an atomic bomb from Zhong Shan''s previous life. The sheer scale and grandeur of the scene were overwhelming.


    It was as if atomic bombs were targeting Gushentong. What a magnificent and awe-inspiring sight!


    The Ancient Holy Mountain seemed like a nexus of energy, with blinding light radiating in all directions, dazzling countless powerful beings.


    Was this the cmity Gushentong had to face?


    "Hmph!"


    From the center of the lightning storm, a cold snort echoed from Gushentong. The lightning bolts wavered under the force of the snort, showcasing Gushentong''s formidable presence.


    Everyone knew that Gushentong was about to counterattack. The explosion point of energy suddenly rose, pushed upwards by an immense force.


    The Imperial Seal!


    That was Gushentong''s treasure, the Imperial Seal of the Heavenly Dynasty.


    The Imperial Seal expanded to a hundred feet in size, growingrger andrger. Its surface faced the sky, and it fiercely pressed upward. The red imprint on the seal''s surface emitted a radiant red light, creating a vast red ne that seemed to push the entire sky upwards.


    The thunderclouds seemed to realize something was wrong. Various lightning bolts poured down furiously as if there was no end to their supply. However, the Imperial Seal was too powerful, unstoppable. No matter how many lightning bolts struck, the Imperial Seal withstood them all and continued its relentless advance toward the thunderclouds.


    "Boom!"


    The massive Imperial Seal crashed into the thunderclouds with a force that was several times louder than the previous lightning strikes. Many strong cultivators couldn''t withstand the sound and retreated in a frenzy, moving farther and farther away.


    The Imperial Seal pressed firmly against the thunderclouds as if it intended to imprint a giant seal on them. The thunderclouds, unable to release any more lightning, seemed to be suppressed. They emitted a muffled, sorrowful sound, as if in despair.


    As the two forces reached a stalemate, Gushentong refused to let it continue. He suddenly extended his right hand, raising his index and middle fingers. His eyes widened as he pointed toward the sky. A vast surge of power shot from his fingertips toward the Imperial Seal. Instantly, the Imperial Seal radiated golden light.


    "Boom!"


    The world-destroying thunderclouds were shattered by the immense force of the Imperial Seal. Lightning scattered in all directions, spreading aimlessly.


    Such strength! Was this the might of Gushentong?


    Those who witnessed this scene from afar held their breath. Their eyes filled with astonishment, their blood boiling with excitement.


    World-destroying thunderclouds��the weakest lightning bolts within them held the power of an emperor-level expert''s attack. Endless heavenly thunder, dispersed by a single strike?


    A single seal to scatter the heavens? What immense power and dominance!


    Zhong Shan was filled with awe. The Imperial Seal? Was this the power of the jade seal? What about his own Fangtian Jade Seal? It must be even stronger. It must be! Zhong Shan''s fists clenched tightly.


    After scattering the heavens with a single seal, the Imperial Seal slowly descended into Gushentong''s hand.


    Gushentong gazed at the sky with a look of disdain, exuding an air of supreme confidence.


    The heavens grew angry. Despite the clear skies, an endless rumbling filled the air.


    "Crack!"


    A massive sound echoed across Shenzhou, as if the entirend had heard it. The heavens were aware of the challenge against them.


    "Crack, crack, crack!"


    Above the Ancient Holy Capital, the sky began to crackle with sharp sounds, like ice breaking. Suddenly, an endless expanse of solid ice appeared in the sky. The ice was so thick it reached from the heavens to the earth, as if it had fallen from the distant stars. A colossal ice pir, so wide it epassed the entire diameter of the Ancient Holy Capital, descended from the sky, bringing unprecedented force and power toward Gushentong and the earth below.


    This massive ice pir, like a collision between heaven and earth, carried an ancient, overwhelming might, aiming to crush everything in its path.

 Chapter 489: The Eye of Heaven

    <h4>Chapter 489: The Eye of Heaven</h4>


    In front of Zhong Shan, the entire Ancient Holy Capital was filled from top to bottom with an imprable mass of ice. Torrents of ice pressed down from the depths of the starry sky towards the Ancient Holy Capital.


    Massive air currents squeezed out from the Ancient Holy Capital in all directions. Even though Zhong Shan was standing far away, he could feel the powerful winds. These gales were so fierce that they swept some weaker individuals off their feet, sending them flying into the distant sky, disappearing from view. Numerous mountains were toppled by the strong winds.


    The ice, carrying an unstoppable momentum, bore down on Gushentong. This scene shocked all the onlookers. Everyone could see that the heavens were truly enraged this time. The ice, harder than diamonds, descended upon Gushentong with terrifying force. Even an emperor-level expert would be crushed instantly, not just by the physical force, but by the overwhelming momentum, an unstoppable force.


    As the ice descended, the surrounding space began to wrinkle, as if it was going to crush everything, shatter all rules, and annihte Gushentong.


    "Roar!"


    From Gushentong''s location, a massive tiger''s roar suddenly echoed, prating the surrounding space and harshly stimting the eardrums of the onlookers.


    "The Tiger Tribe''s supreme leader?" Gu Qianyou eximed in surprise.


    "Old Tiger actually went all out?" Emperor Xuan Xia said in astonishment.


    Zhong Shan realized that the "Old Tiger" Emperor Xuan Xia referred to must be the supreme leader of the Tiger Tribe.


    "What happened?" Zhong Shan asked immediately.


    "He actually merged his tiger soul with Gushentong''s body? This... he has backed himself into a corner. If Gushentong doesn''t seed, he will die along with him. However, if Gushentong can create a new world, he will be blessed with the fortune of the Grand Thousand Worlds, allowing him to reshape his golden body, and his power and status will soar," Emperor Xuan Xia exined, frowning.


    As Zhong Shan and Emperor Xuan Xia spoke, the massive ice from the heavens crashed down on Gushentong.


    Gushentong''s eyes widened in a fierce re. With a roar, he extended his fist upward and punched the sky with tremendous force.


    "Boom!"


    Gushentong''s punch created a massive impact. The space around his fist shattered into darkness, forming a colossal ck hole that swallowed everything nearby.


    What a terrifying punch. During the siege of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, Gushentong had never disyed such immense power. This punch wasparable to the force that shattered the immortal artifact, the Seven-Colored Buddha Pearl, by the Golden Cicada Buddha.


    It was incredibly powerful. The colossal ice from the heavens paused for a moment under the force of the punch.


    This was Gushentong''s strength?


    Countless onlookers were filled with astonishment and fear. The power was overwhelming, the dominance absolute. The heavenly ice had been halted by his punch?


    "Boom!"


    Another deafening sound resonated, forcing countless strong cultivators to activate their protective shields.


    "Boom!"


    "Crack!"


    With the force of another punch, a sharp cracking sound echoed through the heavens. Everyone''s eyes focused, realizing something significant had urred.


    Indeed, Zhong Shan saw a crack appear in the massive ice above. The crack ran deep within the ice but stretched from below all the way to the distant starry sky.


    This crack symbolized the immense force Gushentong had exerted, and the heavens were responding. The struggle between Gushentong and the heavens reached a critical point as the giant ice pir began to show signs of breaking. The scene was a breathtaking testament to the power and will of Gushentong.


    A crack? Had Gushentong broken through the celestial ice?


    As countless onlookers watched in amazement, another deep rumbling sound echoed through the air.


    "Boom!"


    The sound seemed to strike directly at everyone''s heart, causing a collective shock.


    "Crack, crack, crack!"


    A series of sharp cracking sounds echoed as the previously unassable celestial ice began to fracture internally. Countless cracks, like a spider web, spread throughout the ice, extending infinitely into the starry sky.


    Such power! Was this the strength of Gushentong?


    "Boom!"


    The terrifying celestial ice shatteredpletely, exploding in all directions. The massive ice that filled the sky disintegrated entirely.


    Countless fragments of ice rained down, covering thend and turning many areas into fields of shattered ice. However, much of the ice turned into mist and dispersed, leaving only a small portion to crash down, causing significant damage and toppling numerous mountains.


    With the celestial ice broken, the massive ck hole created by Gushentong''s punch also healed, restoring the space around the Ancient Holy Capital. Despite the immense power unleashed, the Taigu Mountain remained unharmed, whether due to Gushentong''s protection or its inherent resilience.


    Gushentong stood proudly atop the Taigu Holy Mountain, his eyes filled with a fierce determination as he gazed at the heavens.


    "Crack!"


    Another earth-shattering sound echoed, and the sky above the Ancient Holy Capital was suddenly covered by endless red clouds.


    The red clouds spread across the sky, vast and boundless. Not just above the Ancient Holy Capital, but across the entire world of Shenzhou, even the overseas inds, no one could see the stars, the sun, or the moon anymore.


    All they could see were the red clouds, endless and vast, covering the entire sky. It felt like the end of the world, the oppressive red clouds making many mortals fall to their knees in fear, believing that the heavens were about to unleash divine punishment.


    It wasn''t just divine punishment; it was the wrath of the heavens.


    Above the Ancient Holy Capital, the red clouds emitted countless red rays of light, creating an incredibly terrifying sight.


    "The heavens have finally realized that Gushentong isn''t just aiming for immortality, but intends to create a new world," Emperor Xuan Xia said.


    Zhong Shan nodded, understanding that the heavens had dramatically changed. It was no longer just the Ancient Holy Capital but the entire world that was being affected.


    The heavens finally realized that Gushentong didn''t just want to be an immortal; he wanted to overthrow the heavens themselves.


    The heavens are indifferent, treating all things as straw dogs. In the eyes of the heavens, all creatures are insignificant. Now, there was someone daring to challenge the heavens, someone who wanted to destroy them. This was intolerable.


    The heavens decided not to continue the conventional test for immortality but to utterly annihte this defiant figure.


    Heaven was the supreme existence in this world, and once enraged, its fury was the most terrifying force.


    Gushentong stood atop the Taigu Holy Mountain, looking up at the sky, waiting for the heavens to manifest so he could strike them down.


    The red clouds above the Ancient Holy Capital became so dense that they looked like a smooth, protruding surface, almost like a convex mirror. It resembled a massive red egg, only half-visible, emerging from the endless red clouds.


    Seeing this egg-like object, Zhong Shan suddenly felt a shiver deep in his soul. What was that thing?


    Not just Zhong Shan, but everyone watching suddenly felt a shiver of fear. In front of this enormous egg, their bodies were nearly immobilized.


    "Crack!"


    A massive fissure split the giant egg, stretching from one end to the other. It looked as if it had been cleaved in half, and from the crack, a white light began to seep out.


    The release of that light intensified the onlookers'' fear, a fear so profound it was paralyzing. What was this thing? Whaty inside it?


    Gushentong gazed at the sky with a heavy heart, aware that the real challenge was about to begin.


    Suddenly, the white light from the crack in the egg radiated outwards, illuminating everything around it. Some people, unable to withstand the light''s oppressive aura, fell to their knees, trembling in fear.


    The white light also pressed down on Zhong Shan, but his resolve was unyielding. He red back at the heavens with fierce determination.


    Then, Zhong Shan witnessed an incredibly terrifying scene.


    The giant egg split open from the center, slowly parting to reveal whaty inside.


    Zhong Shan, with his steadfast will and unmatchedposure, could face most things with calmness. But seeing what emerged from the giant egg, he couldn''t help but gasp in shock.


    What did Zhong Shan see?


    An eye. A bloodshot, blood-red pupil, ferocious and menacing.


    From the eye''s pupil, countless blood vessels spread out, filling the sclera with a murderous aura. The pupil itself was a terrifying, demonic red.


    The crack in the giant egg turned out to be its eyelids, which slowly parted to reveal an enormous, horrifying eye.


    Almost instantly, half of the onlookers lowered their heads, unable to muster the courage to face this eye.


    It was too terrifying, the aura of this eye was overwhelmingly powerful.


    "The Eye of Heaven," Emperor Xuan Xia eximed beside Zhong Shan.


    The Eye of Heaven, was this the eye of the heavens?


    Gushentong had finally drawn out the Eye of Heaven, the most terrifying existence in the universe, something only spoken of in myth and legend.


    ording to legend, the Eye of Heaven would only appear when an extraordinary demon emerged, delivering divine punishment. It would only manifest when heaven''s fury and human resentment reached their peak.


    And now, it had reappeared. An extraordinary demon had emerged, not just any demon, but one that the heavens hated most��a powerful being that dared to challenge its authority.


    The Eye of Heaven, with its blood-red pupil, locked its gaze onto Gushentong the moment it appeared.


    Even the peripheral vision of this eye was enough to force countless strong cultivators to bow their heads in fear. The direct gaze of the Eye of Heaven was so powerful it could almost annihte all it saw. Yet, Gushentong did not yield. He stood tall, defiant, and unyielding, ring back at the Eye of Heaven with an indomitable spirit.

 Chapter 490: Great, Great, Great

    <h4>Chapter 490: Great, Great, Great</h4>


    The Eye of Heaven opened! An immense pressure descended, its gaze being the strongest in the world. With one nce, the entire Ancient Holy Capital sank nearly ten meters.


    Another group of people fell to their knees in fear, and many more retreated again and again.


    A dense and intense aura of murderous intent swirled above the Ancient Holy Capital, the Eye of Heaven brimming with hatred.


    Gushentong stared coldly, naturally refusing to retreat at this moment.


    After locking onto Gushentong, the blood-red pupil of the Eye of Heaven suddenly contracted.


    A purple beam of light shot out from the blood-red pupil, like a thickser, sting towards Gushentong.


    Wherever the purple beam passed, it left a long ck streak in the sky, a linear ck hole. The purple light pierced through space, tearing it apart as it aimed directly at Gushentong.


    Though small in quantity, the purple light was concentrated essence.


    Gushentong''s eyes were filled with seriousness. Facing this extremely fast purple beam, Gushentong extended his fist again, punching towards the beam. Using force to break allws, Gushentong confronted the heavens with sheer strength.


    "Boom!"


    The surroundings trembled, and a massive shockwave erupted from Gushentong''s fist, shattering the surrounding space into a giant ck hole. After three breaths, Gushentong''s figure reappeared.


    Gushentong''s forehead was bulging with veins, and his fist was also veined. One punch, one punch had finally shattered the purple beam.


    Gushentong let out a long breath, but the malevolent aura above grew even heavier.


    Seeing one attack fail, the Eye of Heaven sent another beam from its pupil, this time green.


    Gushentong followed the same method, swinging his fist again, the golden light on his fist shining brighter, and punched with even greater force.


    "Boom!"


    Another massive explosion, the ck hole evenrger this time. When the space restored, everyone saw Gushentong still standing, but his right sleeve had been sted away. Even Gushentong couldn''t protect it.


    With his right sleeve gone, Gushentong''s golden body was exposed.


    Gushentong raised an eyebrow, and then another beam, this time blue, shot from the blood-red pupil.


    "Boom!"


    After a powerful collision, Gushentong reappeared, his upper body clothing entirely blown away.


    "The Extinction Beams are getting stronger. If Gushentong doesn''t get serious, he will be in danger," Emperor Xuan Xia sighed lightly.


    Zhong Shan also narrowed his eyes, looking at the scene. Purple, green, blue; would the next one be yellow? ording to the light spectrum, the Seven-Colored Extinction Beams?


    Sure enough, another beam descended, and it was indeed yellow, with even greater power, crashing down towards Gushentong.


    As it neared Gushentong, he finally got serious.


    "Boom!"


    The yellow beam struck Gushentong''s position but was suddenly reflected back, shooting upwards towards the Eye of Heaven.


    Enraged, the Eye of Heaven sent down a green beam, annihting the yellow beam and continuing its descent.


    Seeing the unstoppable power of the Eye of Heaven, the onlookers'' faces were filled with fear and awe. This was a battle of the highest magnitude, one that could reshape the world itself.


    It was the weapon that appeared in Gushentong''s hand that had just reflected the Eye of Heaven''s attack��a colossal axe. The de was immense and fierce, with the handle covered in intricate, mysterious runes that glowed with power. This axe had deflected the green beam, and now the yellow beam wasing down. Gushentong raised the formidable axe and swung it skyward.


    "Boom!"


    The terrifying axe cleaved through the sky, annihting the yellow beam with a single swing.


    "The Heaven-Cleaving Axe?" Zhong Shan eximed in surprise.


    The Heaven-Cleaving Axe wielded such power? The yellow beam was incredibly strong��everyone knew that even a Heavenly Extreme cultivator would struggle to withstand it. Yet, it was effortlessly obliterated by a single swing of the axe?


    Gushentong was finally getting serious.


    As the dragon robe that had been destroyed by the beams reappeared on Gushentong''s body, a result of his magical abilities, he projected an image of supreme authority. An emperor''s strength and status were not just about power; they embodied an invible image of supremacy.


    The blood-red pupil of the Eye of Heaven stared at Gushentong, hesitating for a moment. As Gushentong''s clothes reformed, the eye shot out another beam, this time orange. The orange beam tore through the sky, leaving a long ck trail as it shot towards Gushentong.


    The Heaven-Cleaving Axe swung up once more, sending a beam of axe energy towards the light.


    "sh!"


    The axe energy was obliterated, and the orange beam continued its path towards Gushentong.


    "Boom!"


    The orange beam struck the axe de, but was consumed by the axe''s radiant golden light.


    Gushentong had blocked it once again.


    Zhong Shan understood that each color change in the beams increased their power exponentially, bing ten times stronger each time. Now, it was time for the red beam.


    Indeed, the Eye of Heaven gathered its energy, and a final red beam shot down. The red beam was surrounded by a murderous aura, making even the spectators'' eyes burn with pain.


    "Whoosh!"


    In an instant, the red beam reached Gushentong. The Heaven-Cleaving Axe rose to meet it.


    "Boom!"


    This time, it seemed even the Heaven-Cleaving Axe struggled to withstand the impact. As the ck hole dissipated, Gushentong''s clothes were once again mostly torn away, and his hair was singed at the tips.


    Had Gushentong reached his limit?


    But just at this critical moment, Gushentong managed to withstand the final strike from the Eye of Heaven, barely holding his ground.


    The Eye of Heaven, unwilling to ept a stalemate with this defiant mortal, fixed its bloodshot gaze on Gushentong. Suddenly, countless red beams shot out from the Eye, not targeting Gushentong but surrounding and protecting the Eye itself.


    One red beam had left Gushentong in tatters; now, thousands surrounded the Eye of Heaven, making it feel invulnerable. The white of the Eye was now engulfed in a bloody mist, shrouding the Eyepletely.


    It was clear that the Eye of Heaven was preparing an even more powerful attack. The red beams served as protection, indicating that the Eye was in a state of ''vulnerability'' as it gathered its strength.


    Below, Gushentong''s clothing reformed with energy once more. Seeing the scene in the sky, a barely perceptible smile appeared on his lips. This was the moment he had been waiting for��the Eye of Heaven''s vulnerable state during its preparation.


    Gushentong''s eyes widened as he stood tall and firm.


    "People of the Great Luo Dynasty, now raise your hands and lend me all your strength," Gushentongmanded.


    Though his voice wasn''t loud, it reverberated throughout the world. Every single citizen of the Great Luo Dynasty��fifty billion people��heard his call, no matter if they were near the Taigu Sacred Capital or on distant overseas inds.


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted as he recalled the records in <i>Founding the Heavenly Court</i>. The text mentioned the power of an emperor to gather the might of the entire court and the world. This was the first time Zhong Shan truly understood its meaning. The emperor had the power tomunicate directly with his subjects'' hearts.


    The people of the Great Luo Dynasty, heeding their emperor''s call, raised their hands immediately. With the decree from the Three Great Empires and the Three Great Sacred Grounds forbidding any attacks during this time, there was no fear of external threats.


    Zhong Shan raised his hands.


    "Whoooosh!"


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan felt all his strength drain from his body, leaving him nearly copsing to the ground. How could this be? All his energy, gone?


    Dragging his weakened body, Zhong Shan quickly examined himself. His essence was almost entirely depleted, his spirit dimmed, and his internal energy drained to the point of near exhaustion. It would take a month of rest to recover.


    Quickly, he took out spirit stones to replenish his energy.


    What was happening? The energy loss was too strange, disappearing without any clear cause.


    It wasn''t just Zhong Shan��every citizen of the Great Luo Dynasty experienced the same. All around him, people were raising their hands only to copse shortly after, their energy drainedpletely.


    Seeing people fall, some hesitated, but when they realized there were nosting harms beyond needing some rest, they raised their hands as well, one by one, copsing in turn.


    Only the people of the Great Luo Dynasty could contribute their energy this way; outsiders found their efforts futile, as they were not part of the dynasty.


    Fifty billion��fifty billion cultivators of the Great Luo Dynasty raised their hands, and the collective energy flowed towards Gushentong. This number alone hinted at an unimaginable, colossal power.


    Before Zhong Shan''s eyes, far in the distance, Gushentong stood on the peak of Taigu Sacred Mountain, holding the Heaven-Cleaving Axe. Suddenly, he radiated with a dazzling golden light. A powerful aura enveloped him, making his figure appear hazy.


    The hazy figure of Gushentong began to undergo an incredible transformation, astonishing everyone watching. His body began to grow,rger andrger.


    People''s eyes widened in disbelief as Gushentong''s figure continued to expand��ten meters, a hundred meters, a thousand meters, ten thousand meters. He kept growing until he seemed to touch the sky, towering over the Taigu Sacred Capital. The mountains where the spectators stood now only reached up to his feet.


    Gushentong had transformed into a giant of unimaginable size, his stature dominating thendscape. This spectacle left countless people stunned, their eyes wide with shock and awe.

 Chapter 491: Stepping on the Seven Stars, Shattering Myths

    <h4>Chapter 491: Stepping on the Seven Stars, Shattering Myths</h4>


    A colossal figure emerged, a giant reaching nearly a million feet in height. How could a human be this tall? Everyone craned their necks to gaze at this towering giant. The Ancient Shentong had grown, not only in size but also his clothes and the colossal axe in his hand, which now stood tens of thousands of feet high.


    Could Ancient Shentong be the foremost being under the heavens?


    With an overwhelming presence, Ancient Shentong continued to augment his power as the Eye of the Heavens was still brewing. His body expanded to an awe-inspiring enormity. The faint halo around him dissipated, revealing a being of immense strength, the most formidable under the heavens.


    Ancient Shentong, still donning his t crown and d in a robe adorned with nine dragons and swirling clouds, red angrily at the sky. Suddenly, Zhong Shan noticed a brilliant surge of starlight emanating from beneath Ancient Shentong''s right foot, which spanned tens of thousands of feet.


    Yes, it was starlight, the same light one could see every night from the stars. The starlight burst forth from Ancient Shentong''s right foot.


    At the same time, on Tiang Ind in the Great Zhen Dynasty, Ying Chu stood on the roof of the Longevity Hall, overlooking the surroundings. The sky was filled with endless red clouds, and from the north, a dazzling starlight suddenly shone brightly, though it flickered as if something was wrong.


    "Let''s go!" Ying Chu Zhong Shan said only one word before his figure dashed towards the starlight.


    Ying Chu''s speed was extraordinary. Transforming into a shadow, he shot out like a beam of light. He had just summoned some wolf generals in Xuanyang, but even those Emperor''s Peak experts were far too slowpared to Ying Chu. His speed was simply too fast.


    Kaiyang Sect? Was it the Kaiyang Sect?


    Zhong Shan headed straight for the source of the starlight at Kaiyang Sect. In no time, he arrived outside the mountain gate.


    "What''s happening? Why is it like this?"


    "This is bad, the star position is unstable. How could the star position be unstable?"


    "It''s connected to the Earth Veins. There shouldn''t be any signs of instability. How can the Great Big Dipper Formation be set up like this? The Grand Saint Lord''s attempt to step on the Seven Stars will fail!"


    Inside the Kaiyang Sect, a cacophony of panic-stricken voices filled the air. Why was this happening now?


    "Guard of the Mountain, what''s going on?" Zhong Shan shouted as he arrived.


    "I''m not sure. It seems Tiang Ind is constantly shaking. If we can''t stabilize it, the Great Big Dipper Formation will fail," the guard replied anxiously.


    "Shaking? What shaking?" Zhong Shan asked, confused.


    "This formation requires extreme precision. Even the slightest tremor can''t be tolerated. The Sect Leader is presiding over the Kaiyang position. Such shaking will ruin the Great Big Dipper Formation," the guard said, panicked.


    "As long as it''spletely stable, it will be fine?" Zhong Shan asked quickly.


    "Yes, it must be stable, but how can we stabilize it?" the guard cried in despair.


    "I''ll handle it. Step aside!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    There was no time for more words. Zhong Shan quickly retrieved his Fang Tian Imperial Seal.


    Upon seeing Zhong Shan''s seal, the guard''s eyes lit up.


    "Yes, suppression. Using the imperial seal is the most effective way to stabilize it. But, your seal is just an imperial one. How can it be enough?" The guard''s initial excitement quickly turned into despair.


    Zhong Shan paid no heed to the guard''smentations. He tossed the Fang Tian Imperial Seal into the air. Though it couldn''t match the power of the Ancient Shentong''s Heavenly Imperial Seal, it could still transform into a massive seal spanning a hundred feet. Moreover, being in the Great Zhen Dynasty, the imperial seal could draw upon the dynasty''s fortunes to enhance its suppressive power.


    "Suppress~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Zhong Shan shouted with a thunderous voice. The enormous Fang Tian Imperial Seal plummeted from the sky.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The hundred-foot-wide seal crashed onto the ground with a tremendous impact. Instantly, a stream of seven-colored light flowed over the seal, with the red pearl at its center emitting thirteen different hues.


    "Buzz!"


    With just a slight tremor, everything stabilized.


    "It''s stable! It''s stable!" Cries of astonishment echoed from within the Kaiyang Sect. The entire sect erupted in joy and relief��the Great Big Dipper Formation could continue.


    A brilliant beam of starlight burst forth from the Kaiyang Sect, shooting up into the sky, piercing through the dense red clouds, and extending into the infinite distance.


    Cheering, the Kaiyang Sect was filled with unprecedented excitement. Stability was restored, and the Great Big Dipper Formation was back on track. Inside the sect, starlight exploded, forming a pir that soared into the sky, prating the red clouds and reaching even further into the boundless heavens.


    Amid the jubtion, the guard stared at Zhong Shan in astonishment. Had it worked? Had the suppression seeded? It seemed impossible. But now wasn''t the time for questions.


    "Guard the Sect Leader!" A unified shout echoed from within the Kaiyang Sect.


    At this moment, numerous wolf generals arrived, following Zhong Shan.


    "Protect the surroundings, and do not let anyone disturb us," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" The wolf generals immediately responded.


    Zhong Shan followed the sect guard into the Kaiyang Sect. At the Kaiyang Hall, he saw the source of the starlight.


    Xuan Xinzi, the Sect Leader of the Kaiyang Sect, was holding adle-like object.


    The Kaiyang Wuqiu Ladle, the symbol of the Kaiyang Sect''s leadership, was the very tool the former master Tian Xingzi had used to arrange the Great Big Dipper Formation to exterminate evil spirits, sacrificing everything, even his life.


    It was the Kaiyang Wuqiu Ladle.


    From it, an infinite stream of starlight shot into the sky, seemingly connecting with the Kaiyang Star. Simultaneously, across the Shenzhound, six other beams of starlight pierced the red clouds, reaching into the infinite cosmos.


    Seven pirs of starlight illuminated the entire Shenzhound, breaking through the red clouds and extending further into the cosmos.


    In the ancient holy capital, Zhong Shan''s true form watched the colossal Ancient Shentong and the starlight beneath his right foot.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Stepping on the Seven Stars, the seven major sects of the Seven Stars Hall align to form the Great Big Dipper Formation, drawing the power of the Big Dipper Stars. Using the ster force, they set up the Grand Luo Zhoutian Star Formation tobat the Eye of the Heavens," Di Xuansha exined.


    Hearing Di Xuansha''s words, Zhong Shan''s eyebrows furrowed.


    "Ster force? Borrowing ster force? How can they borrow ster force to fight against the heavens'' wrath?" Zhong Shan was puzzled.


    Di Xuansha gave Zhong Shan a slight look, then shook his head with a sigh.


    "It seems you still don''t understand our world," Di Xuansha sighed.


    "What? I understand the Minor Thousand World. What''s the matter?" Zhong Shan replied curiously.


    "Yes, it''s the Minor Thousand World. But the Minor Thousand World doesn''t have stars, sun, and moon," Di Xuansha said.


    "How can that be?" Zhong Shan couldn''t believe it.


    "It''s true. The sun, moon, and stars only exist in the Great Thousand World. Due to the unique structure of these worlds, the starry sky we see is actually part of the Great Thousand World. Not just us, but all three thousand Minor Thousand Worlds see the same sun, moon, and stars, all originating from the Great Thousand World," exined Di Xuansha.


    Zhong Shan''s mouth hung open in astonishment. He was ready to dismiss this as nonsense, but suddenly he recalled his younger days on Earth. The stars, the Big Dipper, could be seen there just as they could be seen here. Could it be true that they all came from the Great Thousand World? That only the Great Thousand World had the sun, moon, and stars?


    "Then what about meteorites? How do you exin those?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Theye from the Great Thousand World. Meteorites are fragments from the Great Thousand World, much like ''Houtu''," exined Ancient Shentong.


    "Hmm." Zhong Shan slowly epted this fact.


    He looked again at Ancient Shentong.


    Indeed, as Di Xuansha had said, Ancient Shentong stood with one foot on the seven stars, along with the seven major sects, piercing the red clouds and connecting to the seven stars of the Great Thousand World. Using these stars as a medium, they linked to the celestial stars, drawing their power to set up the formation.


    "Grand Luo Zhoutian Ster Formation!" Ancient Shentong shouted.


    With Ancient Shentong''smand, infinite starlight pierced through the red clouds, making them churn violently.


    In the ancient holy capital, the Eye of the Heavens had finally finished brewing. The red mist around it dispersed, revealing strange tadpole-like symbols rapidly swirling within the eye, appearing incredibly ominous.


    As the tadpole symbols twirled, a powerful pressure descended, pressing the entire ancient holy capital a thousand meters deeper into the ground.


    A thousand meters was nothing before the immense body of Ancient Shentong.


    At this moment, the Eye of the Heavens noticed something wrong. Within the red clouds encasing it, countless green threads emerged, tightly binding it.


    "Sess! Ancient Shentong has sessfully restrained the Eye of the Heavens. The Grand Luo Zhoutian Ster Formation can bind anything in the world. Who would have thought it could even restrain the Eye of the Heavens?" Di Xuansha marveled.


    In the sky, the Eye of the Heavens sensed an overwhelming threat. A look of fear emerged from within the eye, directed at the now immense Ancient Shentong below. How had he suddenly grown sorge?


    In its terror, all the red light from the Eye of the Heavens surged towards Ancient Shentong. Simultaneously, the eye, filled with tadpole symbols, unleashed numerous ck rays of light towards him.


    This time, Ancient Shentong did not sit and wait for the attack. Instead, he took the initiative. With a step, he soared into the sky.


    In an instant, he pierced through the numerous red and ck rays. The red rays struck Ancient Shentong, but they had no effect, as if they were mere beams of ordinary light. Previously, a single red ray was enough to make him struggle, but now, with so many? Had he really be this powerful?


    Too strong! Ignoring the attacks of the Eye of the Heavenspletely, he instantly appeared before it.


    With his giant axe in hand, Ancient Shentong swung it fiercely at the Eye of the Heavens. A golden light shed, blinding everyone for a moment.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a thunderous roar, Ancient Shentong remained suspended in the sky, his eyes filled with killing intent. The Eye of the Heavens stopped emitting rays of light.


    The Eye of the Heavens ceased its movement. A crack appeared in the center of the giant eye, stretching from one side to the other. Ancient Shentong had done it; he had split the Eye of the Heavens with a single strike.


    The myth of heaven and earth was shattered!

 Chapter 492: Primordial Chaos

    <h4>Chapter 492: Primordial Chaos</h4>


    The Eye of the Heavens was broken?


    Everyone watched in shock. The Eye of the Heavens, which had previously sent shivers down their spines, was shattered? The mythical Eye of the Heavens had been cleaved apart by Ancient Shentong''s mighty axe? Even now, some found it hard to believe, but the truth was undeniable. Under Ancient Shentong''s meticulous n, the Eye of the Heavens was indeed split in two with a single strike.


    As the endless red clouds began to dissipate, a thin stream of blood trickled from the crack in the Eye of the Heavens. Then, the enormous eye exploded into a cloud of blood mist.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The heavens and earth suddenly reverberated with a thunderous roar, a sound that echoed throughout the world. A profoundly oppressive atmosphere enveloped everyone. Blood rain began to fall from the sky, as if the heavens themselves were weeping.


    "It''s broken, the sky is broken!" Gu Qianyou eximed excitedly.


    "Broken? Not yet. There''s still one crucial thing left," Di Xuansha shook his head.


    "Not broken yet?" Gu Qianyou was slightly taken aback.


    "Of course not. The fact that our world hasn''t descended into the Great Thousand World is proof enough. There''s still one final step," Di Xuansha exined.


    "What step?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Primordial Chaos," Di Xuansha replied.


    "Primordial Chaos?" Zhong Shan echoed, puzzled.


    "That''s right. Our Minor Thousand World is like a giant egg, with the heavens and earth inside it. Ancient Shentong has removed all obstacles within this world, leaving only the outer shell. This shell is the Primordial Chaos, the final barrier of the Minor Thousand World. Breaking through this barrier will allow us to enter the Great Thousand World," Di Xuansha exined.


    "Splitting the heavens and earth, breaking through the Primordial Chaos?" Zhong Shan asked in a deep voice.


    "Exactly. Splitting the heavens and earth, breaking through the Primordial Chaos, will bring us into the Great Thousand World. Our entire world will enter the Great Thousand World," Di Xuansha nodded.


    Zhong Shan fell into deep thought. Meanwhile, on Tiang Ind, at the Kaiyang Sect, endless starlight was being drawn from the Great Thousand World. Strangely, this starlight was now converging on Zhong Shan''s Fang Tian Imperial Seal.


    No, it was the Fang Tian Imperial Seal absorbing the vast ster energy.


    Everyone watched this phenomenon in astonishment as the endless ster energy was drawn into the Fang Tian Imperial Seal, pouring into it.


    "Zhong Shan, what is this?" the sect guard asked Zhong Shan''s shadow body in surprise.


    "I''m not sure. Perhaps it''s due to Ancient Shentong," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    To outsiders, Zhong Shan attributed the phenomenon to Ancient Shentong, but internally, he was overwhelmed with shock. The sudden change was not due to Ancient Shentong, but the red pearl atop the Fang Tian Imperial Seal��the same red pearl that had brought him to this world.


    The other six sects of the Seven Stars Hall no longer had any starlight converging on them, but the Kaiyang Sect did. The red pearl was forcibly drawing ster energy from the Great Thousand World.


    The vast ster energy didn''t enter the red pearl but instead flowed into the body of the Fang Tian Imperial Seal. Zhong Shan felt a peculiar sensation, as if the red pearl was scolding the nine-dragon seal for being too lowly, unworthy of it. Thus, it was drawing ster energy from the Great Thousand World to enhance the seal, strengthening the power of the nine dragons.


    The nine-dragon seal, which served as the Heavenly Imperial Seal, was considered the best jade in the world. Yet, in the eyes of the red pearl, it was deemed too inferior?


    Zhong Shan swallowed hard. What exactly was this red pearl? How could it be so powerful?


    In the ancient holy capital, Zhong Shan''s true form watched Ancient Shentong. The seven stars beneath Ancient Shentong''s feet had dimmed, and the Grand Luo Zhoutian Ster Formation had dissipated following the destruction of the Eye of the Heavens.


    "Why dismantle the Grand Luo Zhoutian Ster Formation?" Gu Qianyou frowned.


    "The formation''s mission isplete. Besides, the uing task of confronting the Primordial Chaos won''t require this formation. Its presence might even interfere with Ancient Shentong''s actions," Di Xuansha exined.


    Once again, Ancient Shentong descended, standing firmly on the ground, gazing up at the sky. With the Eye of the Heavens shattered and all restraints removed, the next challenge was the Primordial Chaos.


    Ancient Shentong''s eyes fixed on the sky, his aura erupted fiercely, surging upwards.


    The powerful and immense aura forced all onlookers to retreat, unable to withstand the overwhelming pressure.


    His aura reached the heavens!


    The clouds and mist above dissipated, and the space around Ancient Shentong began to wrinkle under his sheer force.


    Was this merely aura? The aura alone could wrinkle space?


    Everyone around was stunned.


    Finally, it emerged.


    Above Ancient Shentong, clusters of grayish energy appeared, neither entirely real nor illusory, exuding a strange presence. The energy seemed to transcend space, appearing directly above Ancient Shentong''s head.


    "Primordial Chaos energy, that''s it!" Di Xuansha eximed excitedly.


    Chaos? Zhong Shan watched with a grave expression.


    The Primordial Chaos energy seemed to grow, spreading across the sky, filling it entirely with a gray hue.


    First, there were red clouds, now it had turned gray. Mortals, sensing a great change in the world, knelt and worshipped.


    Seeing the chaos, Ancient Shentong did not hesitate. Wielding his Heaven-Splitting Axe, he shed towards the gray chaos.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a deafening roar, the massive axe shed through the surrounding space, shattering it. Within the ck void, Ancient Shentong''s axe struck the chaotic energy.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The sheer power of the strike was immense, bordering on the perverse. Even as space shattered around him, the collision with the chaotic energy sent a torrent of force cascading downwards, sweeping in all directions.


    In that moment, a violent windstorm erupted across the entire Shenzhound. Even the outskirts of the ancient holy capital saw numerous observers blown away by the fierce winds.


    These were powerful cultivators, yet they struggled to maintain their footing in the face of this terrifying storm.


    Space quickly restored itself around Ancient Shentong, revealing his figure once more.


    One strike, such a mighty strike, shed into the chaotic energy, yet it only created a gash, a mere hundred meters deep. Through the deep chasm, it was evident that the chaotic energy was still vast and thick, far from being fully cut through.


    Such a powerful strike, yet it didn''t cleave it open?


    Ancient Shentong withdrew his axe, preparing for another strike, but the moment he pulled it free, he noticed that the chaotic energy began to flow from both sides, seamlessly sealing the gash.


    What? The overwhelming force of his previous strike seemed ineffective? Would he have to cut again?


    The onlookers were in an uproar. What was this energy? Despite the formidable strike that could shake the world, it barely left a small gash that was quickly mended? The disparity was too great.


    A hundred meters deep might seem profound under normal circumstances, but against the backdrop of Ancient Shentong''s colossal axe, the gash was minuscule, barely marking the edge of the axe de.


    The earlier strike had unleashed winds that swept across all of Shenzhou, a blow that could be said to shake the world. But in the end, the result was so weak? No, it had no effect at all as everything reverted back?


    Ancient Shentong did not continue with a second strike. He coldly observed the restored gap, took a deep breath, knowing that splitting the heavens and earth wasn''t an easy task.


    With a flick of his wrist, Ancient Shentong produced an item. A decree? No, it was more than a decree; it was the ancestral decree of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, akin to the ''Fengshen Bang'' of the Great Zhen Dynasty.


    Ancient Shentong unfurled the ''decree'' with a wave of his hand, and it transformed into a gigantic golden stele, emitting billions of golden rays. Inscribed upon the stele were the names of all the deities of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty.


    At the top were the characters ''Divine Register.''


    The Divine Register emitted billions of golden rays, and at the top, there was a groove where Ancient Shentong gently ced the Heavenly Imperial Seal. Instantly, the golden rays condensed into a soft white light, illuminating the chaotic energy before him.


    After ensuring everything was in ce, Ancient Shentong once again wielded his Heaven-Splitting Axe, striking fiercely at the chaotic energy.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    As before, the terrifying power of the strike shattered the surrounding space, with the intense momentum sweeping across all of Shenzhou.


    This time, the chaotic energy did not flow, as it was solidified by the white light from the Divine Register.


    Had it worked? Ancient Shentong felt a surge of joy and struck again.


    Strike, strike, strike!


    Ancient Shentong transformed into a relentless figure, tirelessly hacking away at the chaotic energy. Thend of Shenzhou was swept by continuous violent winds, echoing with the sound of the axe cleaving through chaos.


    For seventy-two hours straight, Ancient Shentong didn''t stop. The gap in the chaotic energy grewrger andrger, while his face turned redder and redder, as if his blood was boiling.


    "What''s happening?" Zhong Shan asked Di Xuansha.


    "The chaotic energy is too strong. The backforce from such powerful collisions is immense. While a few strikes don''t matter, after seventy-two hours, the cumtive bacsh might be causing internal injuries," Di Xuansha said, frowning.


    "What should we do?" Gu Qianyou asked worriedly.


    "It''s almost done. Each strike now rips the gap five times deeper than before. He should be nearing the edge. Next will be the Primordial Purple Barrier," Di Xuansha said.


    "After chaos, there''s anotheryer of the Primordial Purple Barrier?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, the final strike will release arge amount of Primordial Purple Qi. If you have the opportunity, try to collect it. It has immense benefits," Di Xuansha said.


    "Primordial Purple Qi? Can the chaotic energy be collected?" Zhong Shan asked immediately.


    Di Xuansha gave Zhong Shan a surprised look and shook his head. "The chaotic energy is a type of corrupt energy. Collecting it would not only be useless but also extremely harmful."

 Chapter 493: The Wound

    <h4>Chapter 493: The Wound</h4>


    The heavens trembled as a giant wielded the Heaven-Splitting Axe, using immense power to shatter the chaos. This astonishing feat left the world in shock.


    Ancient Shentong''s face turned slightly red, a clear sign that the intense collisions had caused internal injuries.


    "Pu~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Finally, Ancient Shentong couldn''t hold it back anymore and spat out a mouthful of blood. After doing so, he seemed to feel a lot better, but the task was not yetplete��he still had to continue.


    "The Emperor has vomited blood!" Gu Qianyou eximed with deep concern.


    "Ancient Shentong is gravely injured, but it''s almost over. Once he seeds in splitting the heavens, the fortune of the Great Thousand World will flood into him. If he can endure this final trial, his injuries will heal instantly, and his cultivation will further increase," Di Xuansha exined.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Another thunderous sound echoed as the Heaven-Splitting Axe struck the chaotic energy again. Ancient Shentong suffered another heavy injury, but it was finally done. Thest bit of chaotic energy was severed by his axe.


    The chaotic energy was split!


    Witnessing this, the onlookers erupted in cheers. The barrier of chaos was broken!


    Countless people showed expressions of joy. The chaotic barrier was finally broken, cleaved apart.


    As the chaotic barrier was severed, arge amount of purple light shot out from beyond it, spreading in all directions. In an instant, it seemed as if the entire world was bathed in purple light. The spiritual energy on thend of Shenzhou suddenly multiplied, filled with endless vitality and creation.


    "The Primordial Purple Barrier, this is it!" Di Xuansha said, slightly excited.


    Not only Di Xuansha, but all the peerless experts around were fixated on the Primordial Purple Barrier.


    The endless purple light radiated from the barrier, illuminating thend of Shenzhou. The barrier itself was entirely purple, with strange runes swirling on its surface, flickering as if embodying thews of the universe.


    The Primordial Purple Barrier��so this was it?


    Behind Ancient Shentong, the ''Divine Register'' emitted billions of rays of light, illuminating the chaotic energy on both sides, preventing it from closing in. However, the chaotic energy was still incredibly resilient, slowly but surely creeping closer. If it closed uppletely, all of Ancient Shentong''s efforts would be in vain.


    He needed to break the Primordial Purple Barrier quickly, but with his severe injuries, another attempt would only worsen his condition.


    As long as he entered the Great Thousand World, the fortune would heal himpletely.


    Ancient Shentong didn''t hesitate. With eyes wide open and gathering all his strength, he raised the Heaven-Splitting Axe once more, pouring everything he had into a single strike aimed at the Primordial Purple Barrier. Sess or failure hinged on this moment.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    An immensely powerful strike collided with the barrier, sending Ancient Shentong flying backward from the massive recoil.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Ancient Shentong crashed into the ground, creating a colossal crater upon impact.


    In the sky, the Primordial Purple Barrier remained unscathed.


    Gasps of astonishment filled the air around the crater, even Di Xuansha drew in a sharp breath.


    The Primordial Purple Barrier hadn''t budged? How could it be so indestructible? Why was it so incredibly sturdy?


    The power of Ancient Shentong''s strike was unimaginable. From the moment he was forced back, the space around him shattered entirely. Such a vast and powerful blow had no effect at all.


    "Pu~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Ancient Shentong spat out another mouthful of blood and soared into the sky again. Without his control, the chaotic energy began closing in even faster. He quickly controlled the Divine Register to slow the closing of the chaotic energy and once again grasped the Heaven-Splitting Axe, facing the Primordial Purple Barrier. Could he not do it? Could he not break it?


    Ancient Shentong didn''t believe it. He must break it. He must break through the Primordial Chaos.


    The chaotic energy on both sides was about to merge, leaving less and less of the Primordial Purple Barrier exposed.


    "What is the Emperor doing? Why isn''t he striking?" Gu Qianyou asked anxiously.


    "It''s useless. If one strike didn''t work, another won''t either. Ancient Shentong wouldn''t waste his remaining strength on futile attempts," Di Xuansha said, shaking his head.


    Could it really be impossible to split the heavens?


    Many onlookers felt a wave of despair. Could it really be that they couldn''t split the heavens?


    Just then, mes began to flicker around Ancient Shentong''s body��golden mes that burned outside his body. His eyes turned blood-red, and the Heaven-Splitting Axe in his hand also started to ze with fire. A tremendous aura of killing intent radiated from the axe in all directions.


    Power, an inexhaustible amount of power, seemed to fill Ancient Shentong once more.


    "Is Ancient Shentong really risking everything?" Di Xuansha frowned.


    "What''s happening to the Emperor? What''s going on?" Gu Qianyou asked, deeply worried, looking at Di Xuansha.


    "He''s burning his life force, unleashing all his potential, preparing to pour everything into one final strike," Di Xuansha exined, frowning.


    "Burning his life force? The Emperor ns to perish together with the Primordial Purple Barrier?" Gu Qianyou eximed in shock.


    The so-called "desperate strike" meant pouring all his energy, including his life force, into one final attack. Its power was even more terrifying than Zhong Shan''s Heaven Demon Tempering Body technique.


    "Perish together? Not necessarily. He''s just cutting off all his own retreats. If he fails, Ancient Shentong will be annihted, body and soul. If he seeds in breaking through the Primordial Purple Barrier, the fortune of the Great Thousand World will instantly restore him," Di Xuansha said.


    "Victory is the only option; failure means death," Zhong Shan remarked.


    "Victory leads to the heavens, failure toplete destruction," Di Xuansha affirmed.


    "He will seed. He must!" Gu Qianyou prayed fervently.


    Realizing what Ancient Shentong was about to do, Di Xuansha led Zhong Shan and all his subordinates to retreat quickly. The other powerful figures also understood and retreated rapidly.


    The four crown princes of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty swiftly ordered everyone to retreat, further and further away.


    At this moment, Ancient Shentong''s strength was enough to y immortals. When he poured his life force into the final strike, it would undoubtedly reach an unprecedented level of power.


    The chaotic barriers slowly drew closer, about to merge.


    At the very instant the chaotic barriers were about to close,


    Ancient Shentong made his move. His eyes were bloodshot, and veins bulged on his arms. With all his might, he swung the Heaven-Splitting Axe.


    "Open~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a thunderous roar that shook the heavens and earth, the Heaven-Splitting Axe, burning with golden mes, struck the final bit of the Primordial Purple Barrier.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    An infinitely powerful strike, with Ancient Shentong at its center, shattered the space all the way down to the earth below. Thend of Shenzhou trembled, mountains and rivers quaked, and a terrifying force rippled through the entire realm. Tsunamis rose from the four seas, and inds trembled.


    The strike, an unimaginably powerful one, hit the Primordial Purple Barrier with immense force. The violent energy caused the chaotic barriers on either side to spread apart much further.


    "It''s broken! It''s broken!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A cry of astonishment rang out, followed by countless others shouting in unison. It was truly broken.


    Cracks, like a spider web, spread from the point of impact on the Heaven-Splitting Axe, reaching in all directions. These terrifying cracks disregarded everything in their path, with endless white light shooting out from them, reminiscent of the light Zhong Shan had seen during the Great Nirvana Ceremony when the Buddha opened a passage.


    Far away, Ancient Shentong''s axe was lodged in the Primordial Purple Barrier. Numerous cracks extended from the barrier in all directions, most prominently affecting the space around the ancient holy capital. These cracks were so intense that they seemed like portals in time and space, swallowing everything.


    "It''s over, Ancient Shentong has failed!" Di Xuansha sighed deeply.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, endless purple energy shot out from the Heaven-Splitting Axe, surging towards Ancient Shentong.


    Now extremely weak, Ancient Shentong, after using the force of his shattered body, could be crushed by even an ordinary Heavenly Extreme Realm practitioner. How could he resist the overwhelming purple energy?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Dozens of streams of Primordial Purple Energy burst forth, engulfing Ancient Shentong. The cracks in the sky also began to emit a powerful suction force, as if attempting to swallow the world. The suction from the web-like cracks drew in everything, and some strong practitioners who couldn''t avoid it were sucked into the cracks.


    Di Xuansha, along with Zhong Shan''s people, had flown far enough to avoid the suction.


    "The Primordial Purple Energy will dissipate upon touching the ground. Whether you can collect it depends on your fate. I''m going!" Di Xuansha said.


    With that, Di Xuansha vanished from Zhong Shan''s side.


    In the sky, after engulfing Ancient Shentong, the Primordial Purple Energy exploded, flying in all directions. Immediately, countless strong practitioners set out to capture the strands of Primordial Purple Energy.


    As for Ancient Shentong, he was gone, utterly gone. Not even a corpse remained; even the Heaven-Splitting Axe seemed to have dissolved in the Primordial Purple Energy.


    Ancient Shentong was dead, truly dead.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Following the blood rain that fell when the Eye of the Heavens was shattered, another blood rain began. Ancient Shentong was dead. Every Heavenly Extreme Realm practitioner had their own ''heaven.'' When a Heavenly Extreme Realm practitioner died, their ''heaven'' copsed. Naturally, there was a response from the heavens, signaled by the falling blood rain. It was a promation to the world that a Heavenly Extreme Realm practitioner had died.


    Zhong Shan also felt a sudden severance in the fortune tied to the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty��it had snapped and disappeared. Ancient Shentong was dead.


    "Your Majesty~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Gu Qianyou cried out, kneeling.


    "Your Majesty~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Countless subjects of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty cried out, kneeling.


    The emperor had passed away.

 Chapter 494: Refining the Primordial Purple Energy

    <h4>Chapter 494: Refining the Primordial Purple Energy</h4>


    In the sky, the Primordial Purple Barrier was eventually covered by chaotic energy. Ancient Shentong''s strike hade so close, just a bit more, and he would have split the heavens and the earth.


    Just a little more, and he would have seeded. But he failed, falling short at thest critical moment.


    The world was now covered in cracks, the Primordial Purple Barrier showing signs of fracture. But without sufficient force, Ancient Shentong could not continue. The power of his shattered body had beenpletely exhausted.


    The heavens did not break, and the primordial chaos remained unbroken. It did not count as splitting the heavens.


    Ancient Shentong''s failure came at a terrible cost: his form and spirit were obliterated, leaving no trace of his soul or true spirit. He waspletely annihted.


    The power of his shattered body only managed to release some Primordial Purple Energy.


    The Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty mourned in full. Ancient Shentong had exhausted all his strength in this attempt to split the heavens, yet even so, the heavens remained intact.


    The chaotic energy slowly covered the Primordial Purple Barrier, gradually disappearing from sight.


    The cracks in the world also slowly shrank, pulling in many strong practitioners, shrinking and eventually disappearing, as if nothing had ever happened.


    However, the ancient holy capital was gone, and Ancient Shentong was dead. How could anyone pretend nothing had happened? The Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty was effectively erased from thend of Shenzhou after Ancient Shentong''s demise.


    The citizens of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty mourned deeply.


    Gu Qianyou''s face was streaked with tears, still unable to believe what had happened.


    The emperor was dead? How could someone so powerful be dead? In the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, the one who had treated her the best wasn''t her adoptive father, King Zhengyi, but the emperor. His care was like that of a biological father��no, even more so than a biological father. He taught her knowledge, strategies, and helped her in cultivation. Whatever she wanted, he would mobilize countless resources under the pretext of the dynasty to obtain it for her. Even the four crown princes did not enjoy such privileges.


    The emperor was dead? Gone? Completely gone?


    Gu Qianyou''s eyes were filled with sorrow. Zhong Shan held her, continuouslyforting her.


    Nearby, Mr. Corpse, Ah Da, Ah Er, Zhi Huo, Qing Hong, and others quickly gathered to protect Zhong Shan.


    In the sky, after the Primordial Purple Energy burst forth, it spread in all directions, splitting into about eighty strands.


    Numerous strong practitioners flew out to chase the energy.


    Not far away, a strand of Primordial Purple Energy descended. About ten strong practitioners soared into the sky to catch it, but as they reached the height, they were forced down by the sheer weight of the energy.


    The Primordial Purple Energy, though it appeared as light as a feather, was incredibly heavy��unbelievably so. The ten strong practitioners, all of whom were at least at the Nascent Soul stage, were forced back.


    Realizing they couldn''t im it, they retreated.


    The strand of Primordial Purple Energy fell onto a mountain range. The mountains that had survived the previous impacts were filled with infinite spiritual energy, their resilience akin to diamonds, allowing them to withstand until now.


    Yet, a single strand of the seemingly delicate Primordial Purple Energy struck the mountain with a loud crash, copsing it. A mountain, crushed by the energy.


    The Primordial Purple Energy then fused into the copsed mountain, causing the spiritual energy within to surge, and vegetation to grow wildly.


    Everyone watched in astonishment. Was the Primordial Purple Energy truly this heavy?


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan heard Di Xuansha''s voice.


    "Zhong Shan, I''ve just collected a strand of Primordial Purple Energy. It''s my limit. I need to return and refine it immediately, or it will dissipate. Take care!" Di Xuansha''s voice echoed in Zhong Shan''s ears.


    Primordial Purple Energy? Even a veteran Heavenly Extreme Realm practitioner like Di Xuansha could only collect one strand?


    Was it true that even all Heavenly Extreme Realm practitioners could only collect a single strand of Primordial Purple Energy? If they couldn''t collect it, would it just merge into the earth, bing spiritual energy?


    As Zhong Shan frowned, perhaps by a twist of fate, a strand of Primordial Purple Energy floated towards him.


    "It''s impossible. Aside from Heavenly Extreme Realm practitioners, no one else has the ability to collect it. We should leave," Mr. Corpse said immediately.


    Clearly, Mr. Corpse,ing from the Great Thousand World, was well-versed in such matters.


    But how could Zhong Shan be willing to give up so easily? Primordial Purple Energy was nowing to him on its own. He had to at least try.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Zhong Shan''s eyes widened, and suddenly, a transparent phantom burst out from within him. Everyone felt a gust of wind blow past.


    The massive Baji Tianwei shot up into the sky, opened its terrifying mouth, and swallowed the Primordial Purple Energy in one gulp.


    Energy, boundless and surging energy.


    The Baji Tianwei swallowed the Primordial Purple Energy in one gulp and immediately merged back into Zhong Shan''s body.


    Zhong Shan felt a surge of joy. He nced around, but all the other strands of Primordial Purple Energy had already been taken or had merged into the earth. There were none left.


    "Let''s go!" Ignoring the astonishment of hispanions, Zhong Shan held the tear-streaked Gu Qianyou and led the group away quickly.


    He needed to find a ce to thoroughly digest this.


    Primordial Purple Energy��it was Primordial Purple Energy! Even if the Baji Tianwei took the bulk of it, there would still be benefits for him.


    Three dayster, in the former ancient holy capital.


    What was once the ancient holy capital was now a colossal pit, created when Ancient Shentong struck the Primordial Purple Barrier and was rebounded to the ground. Most of the surrounding mountains had also copsed due to the splitting of the heavens.


    Ancient Shentong was dead,pletely and utterly. In his final desperate act, the Heaven-Splitting Axe was shattered, and he was buried under the Primordial Purple Energy.


    The Divine Register was mostly destroyed, but Ancient Shentong''s Heavenly Imperial Seal remained intact.


    Regardless of whether Ancient Shentong had seeded or not, his immense power and the attempt to split the heavens had left an indelible mark on everyone''s mind. No one would ridicule him. His achievements symbolized being the first under the heavens!


    To mock the first under the heavens was to insult oneself.


    The emperor''s passing was mourned by the entire court. Although the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty copsed with Ancient Shentong''s death, many of his former officials still attended his memorial service.


    The memorial service was held at the site of the ancient holy capital.


    The four crown princes, dressed in mourning clothes, knelt at the site of Ancient Shentong''s tomb, which was the immense pit he had created. This wasn''t just a pit; it was an abyss, the ancient abyss.


    The dark abyss, created by Ancient Shentong''s million-zhang body crashing into the earth, was infused with a strand of Primordial Purple Energy. Though it appeared ordinary, it was filled with abundant spiritual energy.


    This abyss was a symbol��the symbol of the former Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty and a symbol of thend of Shenzhou. No one dared to touch it, not even the four crown princes.


    At the mouth of the abyss, many people arrived one after another, simply to offer a bow, pay respects, or light aforting incense stick.


    In a secluded mountain not far from the ancient holy capital.


    The Zhong family''s army guarded the perimeter, and the Emperor Extreme Realm experts stood watch over Zhong Shan.


    Gu Qianyou, apanied by Qing Hong, was feeling much better. As for Zhong Shan, he had entered seclusion alone.


    Primordial Purple Energy��it was Primordial Purple Energy! Even Heavenly Extreme Realm practitioners could only collect a single strand. And now, this incredible energy had been swallowed by the Baji Tianwei?


    Zhong Shan was well aware of the immense power of the Primordial Purple Energy, not just from the external reactions but from his internal experiences as well. After the Baji Tianwei swallowed the energy, it took nearly three days to fully digest it.


    Finally, the Baji Tianwei converted a small portion of the energy into a form that Zhong Shan''s body could use.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Zhong Shan''s primordial spirit suddenly tightened as if it had undergone a metamorphosis, radiating arge amount of golden light.


    He had broken through. Finally, Zhong Shan had reached the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    The Emperor Extreme Realm meant he could now touch the rules of the world. Without opening his eyes, his primordial spirit could already ''see'' the threads of the world''s rules around him. However, these rules were very weak, far from the effects of the Red Luan Heavenly Sutra, and the patterns of the world were much fewer than what he could see with the "Eyes of Breaking Delusion."


    The Heavenly Thunder Transformation!


    The technique given to him by Xuan Yuan in the past was actually more than just a technique for the fusion stage because it could still be cultivated at the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    At the moment of breaking through to the Emperor Extreme Realm, the thunderclouds could no longer be measured in acres but rather by sight. As far as Zhong Shan''s eyes could see, there were thunderclouds, simr to the ''heaven'' of the Heavenly Extreme Realm.


    Moreover, the Emperor Extreme Realm was a transformation from ordinary heavenly thunder to Divine Celestial Thunder, a type of thunder with a hundredfold increase in power due to its concentration.


    Although there was still very little Divine Celestial Thunder right now, with most of it still being ordinary heavenly thunder, as his strength increased, the amount of Divine Celestial Thunder would certainly grow.


    This was the perverse aspect of the Heavenly Thunder Transformation.


    The Emperor Extreme Realm had ten levels, and the energy provided by the Baji Tianwei was incredibly abundant. Zhong Shan not only reached the Emperor Extreme Realm but also immediately advanced to the second level of the Emperor Extreme Realm!


    An earth-shattering breakthrough. Given Zhong Shan''s natural disposition, reaching the Nascent Soul stage would be a pipe dream for others. But Zhong Shan had shockingly advanced to the Emperor Extreme Realm, the second level of the Emperor Extreme Realm?


    This wasn''t Zhong Shan''s greatest gain. The biggest reward was the transformation of the Baji Tianwei.


    The Primordial Purple Energy contained an unimaginable amount of energy. The Baji Tianwei, which had previously been a phantom, now became a fluid-like entity, simr to gtin.


    The Baji Tianwei could now remain outside Zhong Shan''s body for extended periods. It perched on Zhong Shan''s shoulder, its form smaller, waving its eight beautiful tails. Each tail was a different color, increasingly distinct and even dazzling.


    Zhong Shan believed that the Baji Tianwei was now invincible below the Emperor Extreme Realm. Unless faced with an Imperial Extreme Realm practitioner, it would be unmatched. Even at the peak of the Emperor Extreme Realm, encountering the Baji Tianwei would mean certain death.


    After collecting the Baji Tianwei, Zhong Shan stood up and slowly walked out of the secluded hall.


    Everyone had been patiently waiting for Zhong Shan.


    With Ancient Shentong dead, there was no doubt that they were no longer part of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty but fully belonged to the Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty.


    "Zhong Shan, there is currently a memorial service for the emperor at the ancient abyss. I want to go!" Gu Qianyou said, her eyes red with tears.

 Chapter 495: Great Wisdom in Simplicity

    <h4>Chapter 495: Great Wisdom in Simplicity</h4>


    "Zhong Shan, the memorial service for the Emperor is being held at the ancient abyss. I want to go!" Gu Qianyou said, her eyes red with tears.


    "Memorial service?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, it''s the memorial service for Ancient Shentong. His cenotaph and fragments of the Divine Register will be burned as an offering to the heavens in two days, seeking pardon for Ancient Shentong''s soul. This will erect a ''heart monument'' for him, ensuring his legacy endures in people''s hearts forever," Shui Wuhen exined.


    "Erecting a heart monument? Yes, since Ancient Shentong''s form and spirit are obliterated, he can only be buried in the hearts of the people," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Zhong Shan!" Gu Qianyou looked at Zhong Shan expectantly.


    "Your Majesty, the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty has copsed. We have withdrawn from itsplicated situation. It''s not advisable to go now. Your Majesty''s reputation shakes thend of Shenzhou, and some might seek to harm you," Shui Wuhen advised.


    "Your Majesty, I agree with General Shui," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    "Your Majesty, please reconsider," Fire Wolf General added.


    "Please reconsider, Your Majesty!" everyone around him bowed and pleaded.


    Zhong Shan looked at the bowing crowd and then at the hopeful Gu Qianyou. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Prepare the Zhong family army. We will go to the ancient abyss to pay our respects to Ancient Shentong!"


    "Yes!" everyone replied immediately. Although they were reluctant, Zhong Shan''s order had to be obeyed.


    The group dispersed to prepare, leaving only Gu Qianyou behind.


    "Thank you!" Gu Qianyou said, tears streaming down her face.


    Over the past few days, Gu Qianyou had looked much more haggard. Paying respects to Ancient Shentong was what she most wanted to do, but Zhong Shan''s safety was more important. If Zhong Shan refused to go, she wouldn''t insist, no matter how heartbroken she was.


    Gently holding Gu Qianyou, Zhong Shan shook his head. "I''m going to pay my respects to Ancient Shentong not just for you. Even without you, I would still go. The Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, and Ancient Shentong, have given me immense help and trust over the years. Whether out of gratitude or obligation, I must go."


    "Yes!" Gu Qianyou nodded.


    At the ancient abyss, to the south, atop a towering white jade mountain, stood a grand memorial hall. Inside, there were no photos, no coffin, no body. The hall itself was closed.


    No one stood near the memorial hall; everyone was gathered at the base of the white jade mountain.


    The base of the white jade mountain had been leveled by cultivators and was filled with countless strong practitioners.


    Directly below was a massive incense burner. Attendants handed out long incense sticks to thoseing to pay their respects.


    The four crown princes stood on either side of the main position, with former officials of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty arriving one after another. High-ranking and influential individuals would light an incense stick and then step aside.


    Former Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty Prime Minister Huan Tulong was one of the first to offer incense. After paying his respects, he stepped aside, seemingly waiting to address everyone after the memorial service.


    Of course, only those with significant status could offer incense.


    When Zhong Shan arrived, the area around the ancient abyss was already packed with people, an endless sea of nearly eighty million. Although this number was vast, it was still somewhatckingpared to the entire poption of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty.


    Eighty million people hade to deeply mourn Ancient Shentong.


    These eighty million people were divided into countless small groups, each led by a leader to offer incense. The Zhong family army, numbering a million, was only a small fraction of the total, and thus not very conspicuous. However, when people saw Zhong Shan at the forefront, everyone fell silent.


    Zhong Shan, the former First-ss Duke of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty and the Vice Minister of Rites, was now standing at the forefront. His rise had been nothing short of legendary, filled with endless tales of valor. His reputation even rivaled that of the four crown princes and surpassed that of the Prime Minister.


    Zhong Shan had arrived, and he brought the entire Zhong family army with him.


    The various leaders quicklymanded their troops to clear a path for the Zhong family army.


    "Zhong Shan and Gu Qianyou, here to pay respects~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" announced a ceremonial official.


    With the copse of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, everyone''s titles were re-evaluated. Gu Qianyou was no longer referred to as Princess Qianyou.


    As the announcement echoed, all eyes turned towards the Zhong family army.


    King Zhengyi''s gaze remained murky, while King Daxuan and King Taizong''s eyes lit up. King Zhantian had a peculiar glint in his eyes.


    Zhong Shan''s capabilities were undeniable. With the fall of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, the four crown princes no longer had their previous reservations. In the past, Ancient Shentong''s protection meant no one dared to touch Zhong Shan. Now, with Ancient Shentong dead, to whom would Zhong Shan ultimately pledge his allegiance?


    As they approached, the Zhong family army, under Shui Wuhen''smand, quickly aligned themselves. The difference between the Zhong family army and other forces became apparent. The Zhong family army stood in perfect formation, each soldier in line as if cut by a knife, standing so straight that only the front row was visible, with everyone else hidden behind them.


    What an impressive Zhong family army!


    Seeing such a disciplined and orderly force, everyone couldn''t help but marvel. Training cultivators to such precision was no small feat, and the strength of the Zhong family army was beyond doubt. And their leader, Zhong Shan, was even more formidable.


    Zhong Shan and Gu Qianyou looked at the towering white jade mountain and the grand memorial hall, sighing softly.


    At this moment, attendants brought long incense sticks.


    Zhong Shan and Gu Qianyou each took a bundle and approached the incense burner.


    "Your Majesty, this is thest time Qianyou will see you. When I was young and lost my parents, it was you who took care of me. I will never forget your kindness. Rest assured, I have grown up and can take care of myself now. I have also found someone to entrust my life to. Zhong Shan has passed all your tests. Your Majesty..." Gu Qianyou, emotionally charged, stepped forward and ced her incense in the burner.


    Zhong Shan sighed softly beside her.


    "Ancient Shentong, you are the person I respect the most. Over the years, I have received your care and am immensely grateful. Gu Qianyou is now my wife, and I will take good care of her. The Zhong family army has gained fame thanks to you. Today, I bring Qianyou and the Zhong family army to pay our respects and bid you farewell for thest time, calling you our Emperor onest time!" Zhong Shan said, cing his incense in the burner.


    "Hail to the Emperor of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, ten thousand years, ten thousand years, ten thousand years!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    With Zhong Shan''s shout, Gu Qianyou and the million-strong Zhong family army knelt and shouted in unison.


    "Hail to the Emperor of the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, ten thousand years, ten thousand years, ten thousand years~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Thebined shout of a million people echoed through the heavens, shaking hearts and leaving a profound silence.


    The higher-ranking officials nearby all looked at Zhong Shan. His words were clear. Zhong Shan''s gratitude to Ancient Shentong was evident, but his speech was more of a farewell.


    Not just Zhong Shan, but the Zhong family army was also saying goodbye, severing their ties with the former Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty and stepping away.


    Witnessing this, the four crown princes'' eyes tightened.


    After paying his respects, Zhong Shan turned to leave with the Zhong family army, not even bothering to greet the four crown princes.


    "Zhong Shan, please wait!"


    The concerns of Shui Wuhen and the others were finally realized. Just as Zhong Shan was about to turn away, Prime Minister Huan Tulong suddenly called out.


    It wasn''t surprising that Huan Tulong called out to Zhong Shan; the four crown princes had intended to do the same. It wasn''t just Zhong Shan''s capabilities that drew their attention but also his cultivation level.


    The four crown princes and Huan Tulong were all Emperor Extreme Realm experts. As they looked at Zhong Shan, they realized they couldn''t discern his cultivation level. An indiscernible level to Emperor Extreme Realm practitioners meant that Zhong Shan was at least at the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    Emperor Extreme Realm? Zhong Shan had already reached the Emperor Extreme Realm? How could this be? It hadn''t even been a hundred years since Zhong Shan joined the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, and he had leapt from the first level of the Golden Core stage directly to the Emperor Extreme Realm? When Zhong Shan first entered the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, he was at the first level of the Golden Core stage. What was happening now?


    This was too fast, too extraordinary. Even a prodigious talent wouldn''t advance this quickly. And that wasn''t the most critical point. The key was Zhong Shan''s inherent potential. Back when he first joined the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty, his potential was thoroughly assessed. With his level of potential, it would have been impossible for anyone else to reach the Nascent Soul stage in their lifetime. Yet, within less than a hundred years, Zhong Shan had reached the Emperor Extreme Realm?


    It was unbelievable. Zhong Shan was a monstrous talent. If such a person were allowed to leave, he would not only be a great loss of strength but also a significant threat.


    Not wanting to let him go, Huan Tulong immediately called out.


    With Huan Tulong''s call, the four crown princes naturally didn''t say much. Zhong Shan turned to face Huan Tulong.


    "Huan Tulong? What do you want?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "There''s no rush to leave. After the memorial service for the Emperor, you can go," Huan Tulong said.


    "No need. I have already paid my respects, and my heart is at peace," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "After the memorial service, there are important matters to discuss," Huan Tulong said.


    "Important matters? The Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty is no more. There are no important matters that concern me," Zhong Shan shook his head again.


    "Thete Emperor left a decree. If the attempt to split the heavens failed, everything would be passed on to King Zhengyi. There is an imperial decree as proof," Huan Tulong said.


    Passed to King Zhengyi? Transfer everything to King Zhengyi? Consolidate all forces under King Zhengyi? Gu Zhengyi?


    Zhong Shan looked at Gu Zhengyi in surprise. Of the four crown princes, Gu Zhengyi had always appeared the least remarkable, seemingly without any exceptional abilities. Yet, could such a seemingly mediocre person be the crown prince of an imperial dynasty, and the first crown prince at that?


    Zhong Shan had long suspected that Gu Zhengyi was extraordinary, but he hadn''t anticipated that Ancient Shentong had such high expectations for him. Everything was to be passed to King Zhengyi? This seemingly unremarkable crown prince? Concealing his brilliance, demonstrating great wisdom by appearing foolish!


    Seeing the surprise in Zhong Shan''s eyes, Gu Zhengyi remained calm, his expression unchanged. It was evident that he had always been biding his time, hiding his true potential.


    "Zhong Shan, stay and listen to the will of thete Emperor. This concerns the future of all who once served under the Grand Luo Heavenly Dynasty," Huan Tulong insisted.


    Zhong Shan pondered for a moment, looking at Gu Qianyou beside him, then back at the gathered officials and soldiers. Finally, he nodded.


    "Very well, I will stay and listen," Zhong Shan agreed, knowing that this decision could have far-reaching consequences.


    With that, the tension in the air eased slightly, and everyone returned their focus to the solemn memorial service for Ancient Shentong, awaiting the reading of the imperial decree.

 Chapter 496: Unfathomable Depths

    <h4>Chapter 496: Unfathomable Depths</h4>


    As Zhong Shan nced at Gu Zhengyi, his gaze shifted to the other three princes. The Great Xuan King, the Supreme King, and the Battle King all had shes of discontent in their eyes, but they did not voice any objections. Clearly, they acknowledged the truth of the matter. However, expecting the three princes to submit to Gu Zhengyi easily was unrealistic. This solemn asion, dedicated to honoring the ancient deity, was not suitable for any quarrels.


    Everyone''s eyes turned to Zhong Shan, anticipating his reaction, especially the three princes, who were torn between wanting him to stay and hoping he would refuse.


    "Gu Zhengyi!" Zhong Shan suddenly called out to the First King.


    Ignoring Huan Tu Long, Zhong Shan directly addressed Gu Zhengyi. Everyone was taken aback, including Huan Tu Long, who wisely chose to remain silent, having said enough in support of Gu Zhengyi.


    "General Zhong!" Gu Zhengyi nodded slightly.


    "I have a matter I wish to inquire about," Zhong Shan said.


    "Please go ahead."


    "I had a friend named Nan Batian, who used to be your subordinate, known as the ''Butcher of the Battlefield.'' He fought valiantly under yourmand and was honored as a marquis. During thest moment when the ancient deity tore open the sky, I saw him in your ranks. Why is he absent now?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Nan Batian, Zhong Shan knew his character well. For such a significant event as the worship of the ancient deity, Nan Batian, with his clear sense of gratitude and enmity, would surely have attended. However, earlier, Zhong Shan had noticed the battalion led by Nan Batian, but he was missing.


    The title ''Butcher of the Battlefield'' was earned through years of bloodybat. Although not as renowned as Zhong Shan, Nan Batian''s ferocity on the battlefield was well-known. He had never lost a battle, always leading his troops like a sharp knife, piercing enemy lines, and carving a path to victory with his massive de.


    "General Nan?" Gu Zhengyi frowned slightly.


    "What about him?" Zhong Shan pressed.


    "When His Majesty tore open the sky, it created countless spatial rifts. Many were sucked into these rifts, including General Nan, who was unfortunately caught in one and has not been seen since," Gu Zhengyi exined with a sigh.


    Spatial rifts? Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed. He didn''t doubt Gu Zhengyi''s words, as lying in such a setting was impossible. Being sucked into a spatial rift?


    Zhong Shan believed Nan Batian wasn''t someone who would die so easily. However, finding him again might take a long time.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "No problem. I hope General Zhong can stay until after the ceremony so we can discuss important matters," Gu Zhengyi suggested.


    "No, we have already bid farewell to the Great Luo. We won''t disturb you any longer," Zhong Shan replied.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s determination, a gleam shed in Gu Zhengyi''s old eyes.


    "In that case, let Qianyou stay. It''s been a long time since we''ve had a heartfelt conversation," Gu Zhengyi suddenly said to Gu Qianyou.


    After all, Gu Zhengyi was Gu Qianyou''s adoptive father. It was reasonable for him to want her to stay.


    "No. Since you adopted me, I have always repaid your kindness by gathering talents and treasures from all over the world without seeking anything in return. That should be enough. Now, I am Zhong Shan''s woman. This is thest time I will call you father," Gu Qianyou replied, shaking her head.


    Gu Qianyou was severing the father-daughter rtionship. The bond hadsted mainly due to the ancient deity''s influence. Gu Zhengyi adopted her at the deity''s request, and Gu Qianyou had tirelessly repaid his kindness by gathering talents for him. However, when she was falsely used by Marquis Qitian, Gu Zhengyi had coldly severed their rtionship, shattering her hopes and destroying their bond.


    Now, to think he would try to use me to threaten Zhong Shan?


    Gu Qianyou immediately made her stance clear. By saying, "This is thest time I will call you father," she was severing their father-daughter rtionship.


    Upon hearing Gu Qianyou''s words, Gu Zhengyi''s previously cloudy eyes became clear again. He shook his head and said, "Father and daughter will always be father and daughter. This is something that cannot be changed."


    Gu Qianyou''s eyes shed with anger. Was Gu Zhengyi nning to force her to stay? His tone suggested that a disobedient daughter needed to be disciplined by her father, indicating he might resort to force.


    Zhong Shan pulled Gu Qianyou behind him and stepped forward, walking slowly to stand in front of Gu Zhengyi, barely a meter away.


    Everyone watching was taken aback. What was Zhong Shan doing? Challenging Gu Zhengyi?


    The three princes revealed yful smiles. Had Gu Zhengyi finally provoked Zhong Shan to the point of confrontation?


    This was now a battleground of wills between Zhong Shan and Gu Zhengyi, a contest of aura that no one else could interfere with. Even Huan Tu Long, who had initially spoken, remained silent, watching these two formidable figures face off.


    Zhong Shan showed no fear. Standing before Gu Zhengyi, he smiled slightly and took a deep breath.


    "Gu Zhengyi, if I, Zhong Shan, want to leave, no one can stop me��not even you," Zhong Shan said in a low voice.


    His tone was firm and unequivocal, brooking no doubt.


    Indeed, if Zhong Shan wanted to leave, Gu Zhengyi alone couldn''t stop him. Zhong Shan had too many secrets. Even if Zhong Shan did not act, Mister Corpse could ensure their safe retreat. After all, Mister Corpse had once stolen the body of a Buddha from the Pure Land, turning it into a powerful zombie.


    From a distance, the crowd only saw Zhong Shan smiling at Gu Zhengyi, believing their conversation to be amicable. They had no idea it was a tense standoff filled with mutual threats.


    Though Zhong Shan''s voice was low and most didn''t hear it, the three princes and Huan Tu Long nearby heard it clearly.


    All four were momentarily stunned. Zhong Shan dared to threaten Gu Zhengyi?


    The three princes felt a subtle satisfaction, all eyes on Gu Zhengyi to see how he would respond.


    Behind them, Huan Tu Long red angrily at Zhong Shan.


    But just as Huan Tu Long was about to shout in anger, Gu Zhengyi lightly raised his hand to stop him.


    Huan Tu Long immediately fell silent. Seeing this, Zhong Shan''s heart tightened. Gu Zhengyi truly had remarkable control��Huan Tu Long, also a powerful emperor, obeyed him without question. Even with the ancient deity''s authority backing him, such obedience was extraordinary. This could only mean one thing: Gu Zhengyi''s true strength and depth were unfathomable.


    "If Qianyou doesn''t wish to stay, then let''s not force her," Gu Zhengyi said with a shake of his head and a smile.


    Hearing Gu Zhengyi''s words, almost everyone nearby was stunned. They couldn''t understand it. From all appearances, Gu Zhengyi had the absolute upper hand in terms of power, influence, and military strength. Why was he giving up this opportunity?


    Everyone was puzzled.


    Zhong Shan, too, was slightly taken aback. He looked at Gu Zhengyi with a newfound respect. This man was not simple. No, he was very simr to the ancient deity��too simr. This kind ofposure was not something an ordinary person could possess. No wonder the ancient deity chose him.


    Seeing Zhong Shan about to leave, the three princes did not try to stop him.


    "Alright!" Zhong Shan nodded and stepped back.


    "From the Seven Stars Hall, Zi Xunes to pay respects��"


    Just as Zhong Shan was about to leave with Gu Qianyou and the Zhong family army, a ceremonial officer called out again.


    <strong>Seven Stars Hall, Zi Xun?</strong>


    Hearing this name, Zhong Shan was momentarily stunned. Zi Xun? Could it be her? His gaze became slightlyplicated as he looked towards the outer perimeter, just in time to meet Zi Xun''s eyes. Zhong Shan''s expression remained unchanged, while Zi Xun quickly looked away.


    Zi Xun? Here to pay respects?


    Most people didn''t know Zi Xun''s identity, but the four princes and Huan Tu Long were aware that Zi Xun was actually the biological daughter of Gu Shentong. She had never acknowledged him as her father, but now, with Gu Shentong deceased, Zi Xun had unexpectedly appeared.


    The brief eye contact between Zi Xun and Zhong Shan went unnoticed by others, but neither of them pretended not to recognize each other.


    "Elder Zi Xun!" Zhong Shan nodded in greeting.


    Despite their one-night encounter, Zhong Shan wasn''t foolish enough to mention it.


    "You''ve reached the Imperial Extreme Realm?" Zi Xun''s eyes shed with surprise.


    The Imperial Extreme Realm? Zi Xun had first noticed Zhong Shan''s potential, observing his progress from the acquired stage to the innate stage. After their night together due to the influence of the old demon Hong Luan, Zi Xun had thoroughly examined Zhong Shan''s potential. For him to reach the Imperial Extreme Realm so quickly, in less than a hundred years, was astonishing.


    Zi Xun''s tone wasn''t overly enthusiastic, but it wasn''t cold either. Her casual manner made everyone pause. They sensed a deep familiarity between Zhong Shan and Zi Xun, suggesting a close friendship. Yet, Zi Xun''s expression carried a hint of jealousy, like a young girl seeing her lover with another woman.


    Jealousy, that''s what it was.


    When did Zhong Shan, who already had Gu Qianyou, manage to get involved with Zi Xun as well?


    The four princes were all surprised, looking at Zhong Shan with a hint of confusion. How could Zi Xun, an Imperial Extreme Realm powerhouse, have ties with Zhong Shan?


    Of course, what the others didn''t know was that Zi Xun''s attainment of the Imperial Extreme Realm was entirely due to Zhong Shan. The celestial rose he had given her, a gift from the remnant of an immortal spirit resembling Gan Baobao, had been the key.


    "It was a stroke of luck," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Zi Xun also nodded, nced at Gu Qianyou, then stepped forward to light incense for Gu Shentong.


    Gu Qianyou observed Zi Xun, a hint of suspicion in her eyes, but said nothing, standing silently behind Zhong Shan, waiting with him.


    Meanwhile, the three princes exchanged strange nces at Gu Zhengyi. Did he know something about the rtionship between Zhong Shan and Zi Xun?


    Gu Zhengyi, maintaining his usual demeanor, stood there calmly, exuding an air of profound mystery that left everyone guessing.

 Chapter 497: Reorganizing the Court

    <h4>Chapter 497: Reorganizing the Court</h4>


    After offering incense to Gu Shentong, Zi Xun stood silently before the censer for a moment, as if she had a thousand words to say but chose to remain silent. Taking a deep breath, she finally turned around. Throughout this, no one disturbed her.


    Suddenly, a deafening thunderp echoed through the clear sky, and a vast bolt of heavenly lightning struck down on the White Jade Mountain where Gu Shentong''s spirit hall was located.


    An explosion in the spirit hall?


    Almost everyone was furious. Such audacity! To bomb Gu Shentong''s spirit hall during his grand funeral, with eighty million mourners present? Who would dare such an outrageous act?


    The four princes and Huan Tu Long simultaneously red at the sky, searching for the powerful intruder.


    The massive White Jade Mountain had lost a third of its structure, and the spirit hall''s entrance was blown apart, revealing many items within.


    Who was bold enough to do this? Seeking death?


    Everyone looked towards the figure in the sky, and as they recognized her, the four princes'' pupils constricted simultaneously. Zhong Shan also recognized her at once.


    "N�� Qinghui!" Gu Qianyou clenched her fists and red angrily at the woman in the sky.


    The woman wore a veil, hiding her features, but her figure exuded an enchanting aura. It was she who had just bombed the spirit hall.


    "N�� Qinghui, what are you doing?" Huan Tu Long red, then rapidly ascended towards her.


    N�� Qinghui lowered her head, casting a nce at Huan Tu Long.


    With just one look, Huan Tu Long''s ascent halted abruptly as if a powerful force had pushed him back. He crashed back to the ground, raising a cloud of dust. Though uninjured, he had clearly lost in that brief confrontation.


    "Heavenly Extreme Realm? You''ve reached the Heavenly Extreme Realm? How is this possible?" Huan Tu Long eximed in shock.


    Everyone knew that N�� Qinghui was an Imperial Extreme Realm cultivator. However, Huan Tu Long couldn''t be mistaken��only someone at the Heavenly Extreme Realm could defeat him so effortlessly. Had she really ascended to the Heavenly Extreme Realm?


    Moreover, most Heavenly Extreme Realm experts had taken a wisp of Primal Chaos Purple Qi and gone into seclusion. Why hadn''t N�� Qinghui? Had she broken through in just the past few days since Gu Shentong''s death?


    The Heavenly Extreme Realm was the highest realm in Shenzhou. N�� Qinghui had actually reached it?


    "N�� Qinghui Daojun, His Majesty has already passed. What is the meaning of this?" Gu Zhengyi suddenly spoke.


    Daojun��there was only one Daojun in the world, the Crow Daojun, and now there was another.


    "This is between me and him. You''d best not interfere," N�� Qinghui said coldly.


    Hearing N�� Qinghui''s blunt dismissal, a chill shed in Gu Zhengyi''s eyes.


    "You still want to kill him? He''s already dead, utterly annihted. What more do you want?"


    From below came an angry shout.


    Everyone was slightly surprised, looking towards the censer where Zi Xun stood.


    Zi Xun was reprimanding N�� Qinghui?


    Those unaware of Zi Xun''s identity couldn''t help but worry for her.


    Zi Xun''s outburst indeed provoked a reaction from N�� Qinghui, who instantly appeared before her.


    "Have you finally acknowledged him?" N�� Qinghui said softly.


    "Hmph!" Zi Xun snorted coldly, ignoring N�� Qinghui.


    Witnessing this scene, most people were dumbfounded. This felt awkward. N�� Qinghui, no matter her past, was now a Daojun, a Heavenly Extreme Realm expert. And Zi Xun, a few decades ago, was merely at the Imperial Extreme Realm.


    Yet now, their conversation made it seem as if N�� Qinghui was trying to curry favor with Zi Xun. Everyone rubbed their eyes in disbelief.


    "Sigh!" N�� Qinghui sighed slightly, clearly helpless against Zi Xun''s attitude.


    "Daojun N�� Qinghui, His Majesty had instructed that if he were to die and you came to create chaos, we should not stop you. However, as His Majesty''s followers, we have a duty to protect his dignity. I hope that the heavenly thunder just now has exhausted all your hatred. Please do not take any excessive actions," Gu Zhengyi stepped forward and spoke.


    Despite N�� Qinghui''s formidable strength, as the future ruler, he needed to demonstrate invincible courage. Certain responsibilities had to be fulfilled.


    N�� Qinghui nced at Zi Xun. Hearing Gu Zhengyi''s words, her eyes turned cold. Just as she was about to respond, her gaze shifted elsewhere, widening in surprise.


    N�� Qinghui was now looking at Zhong Shan, who stood not far away.


    Seeing N�� Qinghui suddenly ignore him and look at Zhong Shan instead, Gu Zhengyi felt a wave of displeasure. However, his years of self-control kept his expression unchanged as he observed the two.


    Others, too, were puzzled. Why would N�� Qinghui focus on Zhong Shan?


    N�� Qinghui was a Heavenly Extreme Realm expert. This peerless powerhouse was acting very strangely today. First, she justified her shocking act of bombing the spirit hall as if it were a matter of course. Then, upon Zi Xun''s reprimand, she stopped her actions, her confidence seemingly deted. Now, she ignored Gu Zhengyi and fixated on Zhong Shan.


    What was happening today? Everything seemed so irrational.


    "You''re still alive?" N�� Qinghui suddenly spoke, her eyes shing with disbelief and surprise.


    Alive? She had personally witnessed Zhong Shan''s fatal injury back then��an arrow to his vital organs that should have been lethal.


    Hearing N�� Qinghui''s words, everyone was puzzled. Zhong Shan was obviously alive. How could he not be?


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted slightly as if he recalled something. Gu Qianyou, sensing something amiss, was about to question N�� Qinghui but was stopped by Zhong Shan, who gestured for her to remain silent. Gu Qianyou could only re angrily at N�� Qinghui.


    Zi Xun, standing before N�� Qinghui, suddenly reacted to her words, her previous cold demeanor transforming into anger.


    "Is it Zhong Shan? Did she really choose Zhong Shan?" Zi Xun red angrily at N�� Qinghui.


    Most people werepletely bewildered by Zi Xun''s sudden fury. What was going on? Were they ying some sort of riddle game?


    N�� Qinghui, too, was momentarily baffled by Zi Xun''s anger but quickly realized that the "she" Zi Xun referred to was Nian Youyou.


    "Yes, it''s Zhong Shan," N�� Qinghui nodded.


    Upon N�� Qinghui''s confirmation, Zi Xun bit her lip and fell into deep silence. Seeing Zi Xun''s icy gaze, N�� Qinghui felt a tightening in her chest, as if she had realized something.


    "If Zhong Shan dies because of you, I will never forgive you for eternity!" Zi Xun dered.


    Then, she cast a deep look at Zhong Shan before stepping away and disappearing instantly.


    Too sudden! Zi Xun had just dared to threaten a Heavenly Extreme Realm expert!


    Apart from the four princes and Huan Tu Long, everyone else was utterly astonished and incredulous.


    As Zi Xun left, N�� Qinghui''s brow furrowed deeply. From Zi Xun''s words, it was clear that she cared a great deal about Zhong Shan. But why Zhong Shan?


    N�� Qinghui nced deeply at Zhong Shan, her eyes filled withplexity, before disappearing in a flicker. The four princes finally breathed a sigh of relief but looked at Zhong Shan with strange expressions. Zhong Shan?


    After the two women left, Zhong Shan wasted no time. He was well aware of the implications of their conversation and attitudes, but these matters had to remain unspoken, buried deep within him.


    "Let''s go!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    The million-strong Zhong family army quickly assembled and followed Zhong Shan away. None of the surrounding generals dared to stop them and made way for their departure.


    Once they were far enough, Gu Qianyou softly asked Zhong Shan, "What''s the deal with Zi Xun?"


    "You saw it all, didn''t you?" Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with a hint of apology.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s expression, Gu Qianyou immediately understood. Pouting, she said, "You phnderer, always leaving a trail of affection. I''ll tell my two sisters when we get back so they can deal with you."


    Gu Qianyou''s words were harsh, implying that she would let Bao''er and Ling''er handle Zhong Shan. However, this also showed her deep affection for him. Even knowing this news, she couldn''t bear to truly me him.


    Looking at Gu Qianyou, Zhong Shan felt a wave of emotion.


    Zhong Shan left, departing from the ancient abyss.


    At this time, the power structure of Shenzhou had changed drastically again.


    The leading forces remaining were the Three Holy Lands and the Three Great Empires:


    Longevity RealmNetherworld HeavenCreation God PceGreat Sage EmpireGreat Qin EmpireGreat Li Empire


    One yearter, Tiang Ind, Dazhen Dynasty, Xuanjing, Longevity Hall.


    In the Longevity Hall, Zhong Shan sat on the Nine Dragon Heavenly Chair, looking at the assembled ministers.


    "From today, I appoint Shuijing as themander of the sixth legion of the Dazhen Dynasty," Zhong Shan announced.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty! Long live the Emperor!" Shuijing stepped forward to receive his appointment.


    The sixmanders of the Dazhen Dynasty were:


    First Legion Commander, Lin XiaoSecond Legion Commander, Wei YinnThird Legion Commander, Yi YanFourth Legion Commander, Mr. CorpseFifth Legion Commander, Shui WuhenSixth Legion Commander, Shuijing


    This grand assembly ofmanders was impressive. Even an ordinary imperial court didn''t have so many wise leaders.


    Zhong Shan then looked at Liu Wushuang.


    Zhong Shan knew Liu Wushuang well. From her past experience, sacrificing herself to the wolves and enduring years of torment to eventually tame the little wolf, her resolve and capability were evident. Although she wasn''t as precise in handling military affairs as the sixmanders, she understood her role deeply, never overstepping her bounds, and was self-disciplined. Most importantly, she was loyal to Zhong Shan.


    Such a person was perfect for a position Zhong Shan had in mind.


    "Liu Wushuang!" Zhong Shan called.


    "Present," Liu Wushuang responded immediately.


    "I appoint you as the Chief Commander of the Jinyiwei under the Imperial Guard of the Dazhen Dynasty, responsible for overseeing all matters and reporting directly to me," Zhong Shan decreed.


    Overseeing the entire empire and reporting only to the emperor? Such immense power! Everyone turned to look at Liu Wushuang, who usually kept a low profile. They had anticipated that Zhong Shan would eventually utilize her, but they hadn''t expected him to grant her such significant authority.


    Chief Commander of the Jinyiwei? Imperial Guard?


    Not everyone was aware that the Imperial Guard consisted of two departments: the Jinyiwei, operating openly, and the Shadow Guard, working in the shadows. The Shadow Guard wasmanded by the Dark Emperor.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty! Long live the Emperor!" Liu Wushuang epted her appointment.

 Chapter 498: Towards the Glory of Dazhen

    <h4>Chapter 498: Towards the Glory of Dazhen</h4>


    Shenzhou, Southeastern region.


    This region was known as the Land of Chaos.


    The Land of Chaos housed eight major royal dynasties and nearly a hundred smaller kingdoms. There were no imperial dynasties nearby to pose a threat, making it seem like an isted area, yet it was vast in scope.


    Anyone skilled in feng shui would recognize this ce as a gathering spot for qi, and of potential.


    The ultimate principle of the world is that prolonged division leads to unity, and prolonged unity leads to division. Such a chaotd would eventually give rise to an imperial dynasty to bring an end to the turmoil.


    However, over the years, countless royal dynasties had risen and fallen, but none had ever ascended to be an imperial dynasty.


    The eight major royal dynasties were established through endless bloodshed on the battlefield, each capable of intimidating nearly ten smaller kingdoms.


    Although news from across Shenzhou reached the Land of Chaos, those tales of heavenly dynasties and sacrednds remained beyond the reach of its inhabitants.


    Normally, after prolonged contention, a single imperial dynasty would eventually rise to unify the region. However, establishing an imperial dynasty was no easy feat. Each of the eight royal dynasties aspired to this goal, but it was exceedingly difficult.


    Shenzhou had only three heavenly dynasties, and less than a hundred imperial dynasties. In such a vastnd, the emergence of an imperial dynasty was no quick or easy matter.


    The eight royal dynasties upied the region''s eight directions, forming a circle around the Land of Chaos. The central area remained unimed, held only by smaller kingdoms.


    It wasn''t that the eight royal dynasties were unwilling; none wanted to be the first to make a move. Whichever dynasty touched the central area would be the target of the other seven unless it had the strength to dominate the entire Land of Chaos.


    A year ago, the central region was ruled by an ordinary kingdom, which was suddenly eliminated by an unknown force, reced by a new rising power.


    This new power was believed to be a dynasty, but the emperor had never appeared, and there was no sign of its fate energy. Thus, people assumed it was merely a kingdom.


    This kingdom bore the banner of ''Zhen.''


    The Dazhen Kingdom?


    The eight royal dynasties'' royal families paid little attention, as the Land of Chaos was full of kingdoms that frequently rose and fell. The emergence of the Dazhen Kingdom wasn''t particrly noteworthy.


    The appearance of the ''Dazhen Kingdom'' was indeed subtle. After seizing the central area, it did not expand but continuously recruited and trained soldiers.


    The capital of the ''Dazhen Kingdom'' was named ''Guangling,'' after the former kingdom''s name. Within Guangling City, in the imperial pce.


    Zhong Shan had arrived. This time, it was Zhong Shan''s shadow body that hade.


    The true Zhong Shan was stationed on Tiang Ind, while the shadow bodymanded the military campaigns.


    In the pce, Zhong Shan, dressed in ck robes, exuded immense authority as he looked at Shui Wuhen, the Chief Commander of the Jinyiwei of the Dazhen Dynasty.


    "Continue," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty has copsed. Gu Shentong passed the throne to Gu Zhengyi. Nearly half of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty''s strength is now under Gu Zhengyi''s control. He has established a new dynasty called ''Yong,'' the Great Yong Dynasty," Shui Wuhen reported.


    "The Great Yong Dynasty? Ascending to an imperial dynasty should not be too difficult for them. It won''t take more than a few decades," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Indeed, the current Great Yong Dynasty is likely thergest among the world''s dynasties," Liu Wushuang nodded.


    "Mm. And what about Gu Xuan, Gu Taizong, and Gu Zhantian?" Zhong Shan continued his inquiry.


    "Gu Taizong, formerly known as Prince Taizong, has established the Tang Dynasty," Liu Wushuang reported. "Gu Zhantian, formerly Prince Zhantian, founded the Spring and Autumn Dynasty. Gu Xuan, formerly Prince Xuan, created the Yongle Dynasty."


    "And Huan Tu Long?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Huan Tu Long, along with most of the former Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty''s officials, have joined the Great Yong Dynasty," Liu Wushuang replied.


    The Great Yong Dynasty led by Gu Zhengyi, the Tang Dynasty by Gu Taizong, the Spring and Autumn Dynasty by Gu Zhantian, and the Yongle Dynasty by Gu Xuan.


    Zhong Shan nodded, understanding the power dynamics of the four princes. They all had military strength, resources, and established systems; what theycked was the crucial element of fate. Starting from a kingdom, they were rapidly rising, umting boundless fate energy. However, achieving imperial status would require decades of effort. Ascending to a heavenly dynasty was a goal far beyond short-term reach.


    Acknowledging Liu Wushuang''s report with a nod, Zhong Shan gestured for her to step back. Before him stood the sixmanders of the Dazhen Dynasty: Lin Xiao, Wei Yinn, Yi Yan, Mr. Corpse, Shui Wuhen, and Shuijing.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said, "Yinn, Yi Yan, Lin Xiao, you''ve all worked hard recently."


    Lin Xiao and Yi Yan, unperturbed, smiled and replied, "Minor nations, easily conquered."


    Wei Yinn, however, was slightly excited��not about the military achievements but about Zhong Shan''s praise, which she valued above all else.


    "Uncle, why aren''t we continuing the offensive?" Wei Yinn asked.


    "There''s no need to rush. Right now, it''s too early for constant expansion. What I want is to swallow the entire Land of Chaos in one fell swoop," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Yes!" everyone responded promptly.


    "The Land of Chaos is vast, at least ten times the size of Tiang Ind. This will be our first step into Shenzhou. Eight royal dynasties? Each one will be no match for even one of our legions. Your task is to gather strength continuously. In ten years, we willunch a full-scale war. You six willpete to see who is the strongest. Even as a kingdom, Dazhen will be the strongest kingdom, the first in Shenzhou," Zhong Shan dered confidently.


    "Yes!" themanders echoed, nodding.


    They all knew the capabilities of their colleagues. With such a lineup, which royal dynasty couldpare? Even an ordinary imperial dynasty couldn''t match theirbined wisdom. The greatest challenge was filling the ranks of mid-level and lower-level officials to support Dazhen''s expansion and fortify its structure.


    "Of course, if you get bored during these ten years, you can try infiltrating the other dynasties. Our Guangling City is surrounded by enemies. Each of you should choose a direction to target. When the timees, attack with full force," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    The sixmanders had no objections and began nning their future campaigns.


    The outside world was oblivious that such a vast chaotic region was, at this moment, being divided by an external force. In ten years, they would take the world by storm.


    After the meeting, everyone dispersed except Wei Yinn, who stayed behind.


    "Uncle, it''s been a long time since you yed chess with me," Wei Yinn said, pouting.


    Seeing her expression, Zhong Shan felt a warm surge of affection. "Alright, I''ll y chess with you today. Let''s see if my little Yinn''s chess skills have improved."


    "What''s so small about me?" Wei Yinn muttered softly.


    At the same time, on Tiang Ind, the true Zhong Shan sat in the Longevity Hall at Xuanjing.


    Seated at the entrance of the Longevity Hall, surrounded by civil and military officials, today was an extremely important day for the Dazhen Dynasty: the day of the imperial examination.


    Countless schrs and wise men gathered at the Dazhen Dynasty, preparing for the imperial exams. Zhong Shan''s examination system was broad and inclusive, allowing evenmoners with no martial skills to participate.


    Starting from the county-level exams, candidates were selected step by step, gradually uncovering various talents.


    This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. In Tiang Ind, the Dazhen Dynasty was seen as the supreme authority, the ultimate power, fulfilling everyone''s fantasies. The officials of the Dazhen Dynasty were seen as immortal beings, almost godlike.


    To be an immortal? Could a mere mortal aspire to such a thing? Absolutely, as long as one passed the imperial exams and ascended through the ranks, the Dazhen Dynasty would provide the corresponding benefits. For those exceptionally talented, reaching the capital-level exams and then the pce exams would result in wealth, honor, and even longevity.


    Thus, the opening of the Dazhen Dynasty''s imperial exams stirred immense desire among schrs, who racked their brains to excel in the tests.


    Now, it was time for the capital-level exams after several rounds of selections.


    There were thirty-eight thousand candidates for the capital exams, but only a few would make it to the pce exams.


    Zhong Shan looked at the scene with satisfaction. The strength of a dynasty didn''t rely solely on discoveries and rmendations, which were too slow for development. The imperial exam was the quickest shortcut, capable of bringing countless talents, wise men, and strength to the Dazhen Dynasty in one go.


    What about their low cultivation levels? They weren''t needed forbat. With sufficient stipends, they could focus on their cultivation.


    An imperial dynasty''s strength wasn''t built by one or a few people but by countless individuals.


    In a certain mountain forest of Shenzhou, a grand pce stood.


    Inside the pce sat an immensely imposing man, Han Jiguang, the former emperor of the Great Guang Dynasty, one of the two imperial dynasties destroyed by Zhong Shan.


    Before Han Jiguang stood his two sons, both princes.


    "Father, just as you predicted, the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty fell within a few decades. The day of the Great Guang Dynasty''s rise hase," the eldest prince said excitedly.


    "Yes, Father. Over the years, we have also recruited many wise men into our dynasty, and with the ''Ice Army'' as our foundation, restoring the glory of the Great Guang Dynasty isn''t too difficult," the second prince said enthusiastically.


    "Indeed," Han Jiguang nodded, setting aside his scroll.


    "So, Father, when do we start? When do we establish the new dynasty?" the eldest prince asked again.


    The second prince also seemed eager, clearly ready to get started.


    "Ten years ago, the Great Guang Kingdom was already rebuilt, and it''s about time it ascended to a royal dynasty," Han Jiguang said softly.


    Upon hearing this, the two princes were stunned, their mouths agape in surprise.


    They had been gearing up to establish a new dynasty, only to realize that their father had already begun rebuilding ten years ago. The two princes lowered their heads, realizing how short-sighted they had beenpared to their father.

 Chapter 499: Passing the Torch

    <h4>Chapter 499: Passing the Torch</h4>


    Tiang Ind, Xuanjing.


    The true Zhong Shan sat in the Longevity Hall, recruiting talents from across the world, organizing the myriad affairs of Dazhen, and issuing decrees to ensure its prosperity. Zhong Shan noticed that each time he organized the state affairs of Dazhen or issued a decree to promote its prosperity, the fate energy in the air seemed to be more condensed.


    After morning court, he was apanied by his three consorts: Bao''er of the Zhong Cauldron, Ling''er of the Li Cauldron, and Qianyou of the Xun Cauldron. Their assistance during his cultivation sessions made the energy within Zhong Shan even more solidified.


    Despite the challenges, Zhong Shan was steadily advancing in the second tier of the Imperial Extreme Realm. Although progress was slow, it was essential to continuously strengthen his foundation. Hence, he did not personally venture to expand into Shenzhou; instead, his shadow body handled the task.


    On this day, after inspecting the construction of the Lingxiao Treasure Hall, apanied by the Earth God, who was setting up feng shui formations, Zhong Shan was preparing to return when two figures flew over from a distance.


    Before Zhong Shan could speak, numerous guards surrounded him.


    "Protect His Majesty!"


    With a loud shout, three wolf generals and numerous guards blocked the path to Zhong Shan.


    "Stand down!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" The guards immediately retreated.


    The neers were dressed in white robes, one master and one servant, each carrying a sword.


    It was Jian Ao and Chujiu Mo Luo.


    "Jian Ao, how did you find this ce?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    Jian Ao nced at the ck-robed Earth God behind Zhong Shan, hesitating to speak.


    "This is my trusted confidant; there''s no need to avoid him," Zhong Shan said. With a wave of his hand, the surrounding guards and wolf generals quickly retreated to a distance.


    Seeing the guards leave, leaving only Zhong Shan and the Earth God, Jian Ao nodded.


    "I was taking a chance. The first time we met was here on Tiang Ind. I heard you left the ancient abyss recently, so I came here hoping to find you. I got lucky," Jian Ao smiled.


    "Yes, lucky indeed. Come, let''s go to my residence," Zhong Shan invited.


    "No, I came this time to ask for your help," Jian Ao replied.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was puzzled.


    "This task requires two people. Initially, Chujiu was to apany me, but I think over the years, Chujiu is no longer your match," Jian Ao said.


    "Two people? The torch passing of Youming Heaven?" The Earth God frowned.


    Hearing the Earth God''s words, Jian Ao''s pupils contracted, and he looked at the Earth God with a fierce expression.


    "How do you know?" Jian Ao asked, his voice filled with suspicion.


    "My master once participated in it with a young demon seed," the Earth God exined.


    Upon hearing the Earth God''s words, Jian Ao seemed to understand, looking at the Earth God with surprise. The torch passing of Youming Heaven was known to very few, and the external aids sought by each young demon seed were all exceptionally talented. Could the master of this ck-robed man also be an extraordinary powerhouse?


    "Where are we going?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain of Youming Heaven!" Jian Ao replied.


    Hearing about the Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain, the Earth God suddenly moved, wanting to speak but hesitating, while looking at Zhong Shan with a hint of eagerness.


    Although the Earth God was wrapped in a ck robe, Zhong Shan could sense his emotions.


    "What is the torch passing?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "From among the powerful figures of Youming Heaven, the next Tianzhu, or Lesser Tianzhu, will be chosen," Jian Ao exined without further hesitation.


    The title Tianzhu is the highest honor in Youming Heaven, equivalent to a Daojun or Buddha, a position of great power and respect, equivalent to that of a sage or supreme leader.


    "Tianzhu = Daojun = Buddha = Sage."


    "Who are the participants?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Young demon seeds and demon lords of Youming Heaven are eligible to participate. Each can bring apanion, who must be someone whose cultivation level does not exceed their own," Jian Ao exined.


    "What is your current cultivation level?" Zhong Shan asked immediately. Given his own rapid progress, he needed to be sure.


    "First level of the Imperial Extreme Realm," Jian Ao replied.


    After Jian Ao spoke, Chujiu Mo Luo, who stood behind him, felt a surge of pride. This was the master he followed, someone who had reached the Imperial Extreme Realm from the innate stage in just a few decades. Who couldpare to that? Who in the world could match such extraordinary cultivation speed?


    Upon hearing Jian Ao''s response, Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback and furrowed his brows.


    "What''s the matter?" Jian Ao asked, noticing Zhong Shan''s reaction.


    Chujiu also looked at Zhong Shan, wondering if he was shocked by Jian Ao''s cultivation level. After all, anyone witnessing such an abnormal speed of cultivation would be astounded.


    "I am now at the second level of the Imperial Extreme Realm," Zhong Shan stated.


    As soon as Zhong Shan finished speaking, Chujiu Mo Luo almost felt like coughing up blood. The second level of the Imperial Extreme Realm? That was higher than his master. He quickly turned to Jian Ao with wide eyes, filled with disbelief.


    "The second level of the Imperial Extreme Realm? How is that possible?" Chujiu eximed, unwilling to believe it.


    "There''s nothing impossible about it. If I can reach the Imperial Extreme Realm, it''s not unimaginable for Zhong Shan to do the same," Jian Ao shook his head. Jian Ao had immense trust in Zhong Shan, knowing that he was no ordinary person.


    "There are over two years left. During this time, I will strive to break through to the second level of the Imperial Extreme Realm," Jian Ao said.


    "In that case, there shouldn''t be any problem," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "When will you be ready to leave with me?" Jian Ao asked.


    "I have some matters to attend to first. Let''s arrange a meeting ce in Shenzhou. I will arrive on time," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Alright then," Jian Ao said, nodding deeply.


    Over the East Sea, Jian Ao, with Chujiu in tow, flew swiftly towards Shenzhou.


    "Master, why not wait for him a bit? Will Zhong Shan reallye?" Chujiu asked with concern.


    "If he says he has matters to attend to, it''s best not to disturb him. However, if he said he woulde, then he definitely will," Jian Ao replied with absolute confidence.


    "Understood," Chujiu nodded.


    Back on Tiang Ind, Zhong Shan saw Jian Ao off, having arranged a time and ce.


    The true Zhong Shan did not n to go, as there were still important matters on Tiang Ind requiring his attention. Hence, his shadow body would head to Youming Heaven.


    "Your Majesty, are you really going to the Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain?" the Earth God asked.


    "Yes, since I agreed, I must keep my word," Zhong Shan affirmed, his resolve matching Jian Ao''s expectations.


    "Indeed, Your Majesty is a person of great fortune. Speaking of which, there is a treasure at the Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain that I hope Your Majesty can obtain," the Earth God said.


    "Oh? Is it something you desire?" Zhong Shan asked, smiling at the Earth God.


    "You could say that," the Earth God nodded.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Taiji Diagram!" the Earth God dered.


    "Taiji Diagram?" Zhong Shan echoed.


    "Indeed, the Taiji Diagram. It''s one of the top ten divine treasures in Shenzhou''s history, the supreme treasure of Youming Heaven," the Earth God exined.


    "Simr to the Immortal ying Flying de and the Heaven-Opening Axe, it can be crafted by human hands?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, it can be crafted by human hands, using a method unique to Youming Heaven. However, there is an existing Taiji Diagram at the Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain, crafted by a former Tianzhu of Youming Heaven. Over generations, each Tianzhu unable to create a new Taiji Diagram has continued to reinforce and refine this existing one. The Taiji Diagram remains there," the Earth God borated.


    "Very well, I will do my best," Zhong Shan nodded. He didn''t make any grand promises. Obtaining the supreme treasure of Youming Heaven wouldn''t be easy, especially for an outsider. It all depended on luck.


    "Understood," the Earth God nodded, aware of the difficulty and not pressing further.


    Youming Heaven was located in the northwest of Shenzhou, one of the three great holynds and a sacred ce for demonic cultivators. The hierarchy of positions from low to high included Mo Luo, Mo Jun, and Tianzhu.


    Two yearster, outside Youming Heaven, on a high mountain named Deste Mountain, stood a manor. Jian Ao and Chujiu waited inside.


    Suddenly, a ck figure shot from the southeast��a ck-robed Zhong Shan, his shadow body.


    The shadow Zhong Shan stood at the foot of Deste Mountain, marveling at its grandeur. The entire mountain was filled with an endless sword intent, like a colossal sword pointing to the heavens.


    "Zhong Shan!" Jian Ao greeted with a smile as he stepped out of the manor.


    At this moment, Jian Ao also seemed like a sharp sword, his aura blending seamlessly with the majestic Deste Mountain behind him.


    What a profound technique, Zhong Shan thought in awe.


    Chujiu followed Jian Ao, showing no signs ofpetition.


    Chujiu deeply respected Zhong Shan. Despite his initially poor aptitude, Zhong Shan''s cultivation speed was unmatched. Even though Chujiu had reached theter stages of the Imperial Extreme Realm, he knew he couldn''tpare to either Jian Ao or Zhong Shan.


    Without a doubt, Chujiu realized that he might not withstand even one move from Jian Ao, and if Zhong Shan had been chosen by Jian Ao, then Zhong Shan must be more powerful.


    "Have you made any breakthroughs recently, Zhong Shan?" Jian Ao asked with a hint of concern. Breaking through two levels in two years was an astonishing feat, requiring extraordinary talent and effort. Zhong Shan had spent these years consolidating his cultivation, not advancing further.


    "Breakthroughs are not so easy, especially for someone like me. I have made no progress," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Not easy?" Chujiu thought to himself, feeling a mix of frustration and admiration. For them, breakthroughs were ''not easy,'' but for him, it seemed nearly impossible.


    "In that case, let''s enter Youming Heaven. Most participants have already arrived," Jian Ao said.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Led by Jian Ao, the three flew towards the sky.


    In the distance, the sky was filled with endless ck clouds, blocking out the sun. These clouds had covered the sky since the birth of Youming Heaven, filled with boundless killing intent.


    The entrance to Youming Heaven, one of the three great holynds,y within these dark clouds.


    The killing intent didn''t faze Zhong Shan, especially in his shadow form, which thrived in such an environment. He felt a sense offort, as if soaking in a hot spring.


    As they approached the dark clouds, Jian Ao led them through the thick, oppressive atmosphere. The entrance to Youming Heaven loomed ahead, shrouded in the endless ck clouds and killing intent, marking the gateway to one of the most dangerous and mysterious ces in Shenzhou.


    Zhong Shan, Jian Ao, and Chujiu continued their ascent, ready to face the challenges of Youming Heaven and the legendary Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain.

 Chapter 500: Youming Heaven

    <h4>Chapter 500: Youming Heaven</h4>


    Passing through the ck clouds, Zhong Shan, along with Jian Ao and Chujiu, found themselves in a strange new realm. It resembled the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, an entirely different space.


    In front of them stretched a vast expanse ofnd. Beneath their feety a massive pool with a diameter of ten thousand meters. The pool wasn''t filled with water but with ck mist, simr to the clouds they had passed through. However, unlike the previous clouds in the sky, this mist filled the enormous pool, marking the entrance to Youming Heaven.


    Surrounding the pool were numerous buildings and a significant number of Youming Heaven''s demon cultivators guarding the area. Recognizing Jian Ao, the guards did not dare to intercept them.


    The space was dimly lit. There were no stars or sun, only countless ck clouds from which faint silvery beams of moonlight asionally shone through. Despite the dimness, everything was still visible.


    Thendscape was filled with endless forests and rivers, much like the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, with an incredibly vast area.


    Entering Youming Heaven, the three followed Jian Ao towards its central region. Flying over mountain ranges, they saw numerous ferocious beasts, poisonous insects, and endless miasma, presenting extreme dangers.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan could see that the ck clouds above a particr region were filled with lightning, with bolts frequently striking the mountain ranges below.


    Even from afar, Zhong Shan noticed something peculiar: the area seemed to form a perfect circle, with arge river encircling the distant region. This area was vast, about half the size of Tiang Ind.


    Tiang Ind was roughly the size of the Earth Zhong Shan remembered from his youth. This region alone was half that size, which was enormous.


    From afar, it appeared as a massive circle. Up close, the exact details were harder to discern. What seemed like a straight, rushing river was actually slightly curved from a distance but appeared straight up close.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "This is the Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain, shaped like a perfect circle. The central mountain range divides it into two, like a Yin-Yang symbol, separating it into Yin and Yang sides," Jian Ao exined as they flew.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan and Chujiu nodded.


    The saying "looking at the mountains, the horse''s legs break" indicated the distance was quite significant. Even for three Imperial Extreme Realm experts, it took nearly half a day to reach their destination.


    The river appeared straight now, and the previously seen mountains rose majestically into the clouds, forcing one to crane their neck to see even halfway up.


    On the other side of the rivery the Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain, while this side was filled with countless buildings, some constructed on steep mountain cliffs, adding a unique charm.


    There were numerous mountain peaks, some already upied by others awaiting the start of the torch passing ceremony.


    Each peak housed different individuals, primarily demon lords or young demon seeds of Youming Heaven, apanied by their chosen helpers.


    Demon lords were mostly Imperial Extreme Realm experts, and the young demon seeds were often reincarnations of demon lords or Tianzhu, the epitome of excellence.


    Jian Ao and hispanions were thest to arrive, with only three days remaining until the torch passing ceremony began.


    As the trio arrived at the resting area, a man in yellow robes flew over to greet them.


    "Elder, Mo Luo, these peaks are still unupied," the yellow-robed man said, pointing to a few mountain peaks.


    "Elder" was a respectful term used for Jian Ao, acknowledging his status as a reincarnated being.


    "How many people have arrived?" Jian Ao asked.


    "There are ten demon lords and ten elders participating in this torch-passing ceremony," the yellow-robed man replied.


    "So, twenty groups in total?" Jian Ao nodded.


    Without further conversation, Jian Ao led Zhong Shan and Chujiu to an unupied mountain peak. They flew to the buildings on the peak and entered.


    Their arrival did not go unnoticed. Not far from the mountain peak where Zhong Shan and hispanions settled, another peak housed a grand hall. Inside, a ck-robed man watched the neers. This man was also invited to the ceremony.


    Sitting in the grand hall, he sipped tea while observing the trio. He showed no particr reaction to Jian Ao and Chujiu, remaining confident. However, when he saw Zhong Shan, his hand trembled involuntarily.


    "Y...," the ck-robed man almost eximed in surprise.


    His trembling hand spilled tea on his clothes.


    "Mr. Xuan, what''s wrong?" a purple-robed man beside him asked, frowning in confusion.


    The ck-robed man stood up abruptly, his emotions clearly agitated. After a moment of trembling, he calmed himself.


    "Sorry, I can''t help you this time," the ck-robed man shook his head.


    "What? We had an agreement! How can you back out now?"


    "I don''t need the item anymore. For special reasons, I must leave immediately," the ck-robed man exined.


    "Leave? Mr. Xuan, are you trying to make a fool of me?" the purple-robed man said coldly.


    The ck-robed man turned to look at him, his eyes shing with a chilling, terrifying coldness. The purple-robed man involuntarily took a step back.


    Taking a deep breath, Mr. Xuan said, "I can tell you solemnly that you have no hope of winning the torch-passing ceremony. I wish you well."


    With that, Mr. Xuan pulled up the hood of his robe, covering his head and shrouding himself in darkness. He walked out of the hall and, without looking back, quickly made his way towards the exit of Youming Heaven.


    The purple-robed man did not attempt to stop him, his face twisted in anger. He watched coldly as Mr. Xuan left, letting out a bitter snort.


    Zhong Shan was recognized by many, not just Mr. Xuan. His fame from his time in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty had spread far and wide. Practitioners who sought merit knew of him, and since bing the nemesis of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, even more had heard of him.


    Although Zhong Shan knew few people here, there were a few who knew him.


    In another grand hall on a different peak, a group of people sat together. Among them was a monk in robes with a bald head. Had Zhong Shan been present, he would have immediately recognized the monk as Sekong, whom he had met in the Ten Thousand Mountains of the Buddhist Prohibition.


    Sekong watched the neers with keen interest. He too had been drawn to this ce by the promise of the torch-passing ceremony. The air was thick with anticipation and intrigue, as the greatest talents and the most ambitious figures gathered for the uing trials.


    One of the outer members of the Demon Army.


    Sekong saw Zhong Shan, and his heart tightened instantly. Zhong Shan? Is it really him?


    Seeing Zhong Shan, Sekong felt an involuntary fear. The impression Zhong Shan had left on him was too deep. After all, even his uncle, a peak Imperial Extreme Realm expert, had died at Zhong Shan''s hands. What could be more terrifying?


    "Uncle!" Sekong quickly bowed to a red-robed man beside him.


    "Hmm?" The red-robed man looked slightly puzzled.


    "Uncle, that man is Zhong Shan. Did you see him?"


    "Hmm," the red-robed man nodded.


    Noticing Sekong''s slight nervousness, the red-robed man felt a bit impatient.


    "Uncle, let''s leave. It''s best not to provoke this person," Sekong suggested.


    After Sekong spoke, another young demon seed nearby raised an eyebrow. Leave?


    "Don''t worry, I have a way to deal with him. Didn''t you want to see the world? Are you scared now?" the red-robed man mocked.


    "It''s just that Zhong Shan is too strange! I''m worried!" Sekong shook his head.


    Seeing Sekong''s fear, the red-robed man''s face showed displeasure.


    "If you want to leave, go by yourself!" the red-robed man said sternly.


    "Yes, Uncle. I will leave now. I wish you the best of luck," Sekong said, showing no backbone.


    With that, Sekong left quickly, as if afraid his life would be at risk if he stayed a moment longer.


    Seeing his cowardly nephew, the red-robed man felt deeply embarrassed, his face turning red and white.


    "Don''t worry, my friend. Perhaps Sekong has some psychological shadow," the young demon seed nearbyforted.


    The red-robed man''s expression softened considerably. He nodded and said, "Pardon me."


    "Not at all!" the young demon seed shook his head.


    While the red-robed man felt humiliated, Sekong, who had left quickly, felt relieved. Losing face was nothing; as long as he kept his life, what was face worth? He had lost face several times before but had saved his life each time.


    Another acquaintance of Zhong Shan was in a different hall, apanying another young demon seed.


    This person was none other than Shen Qitian, formerly known as Marquis Qitian Gulin, who had been stripped of his title and surname by Gu Shentong.


    Shen Qitian, the reincarnation of the supreme monkey.


    At this moment, Shen Qitian squinted his eyes as he watched Zhong Shan leave.


    Zhong Shan��this person��Shen Qitian would never forget him. It was Zhong Shan who had ruined so many of his ns, even causing him to be expelled from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. Because of him, he was forbidden to step foot in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty during Gu Shentong''s reign. But that wasn''t the most important thing. The most important thing was Gu Qianyou, the only woman he had ever loved...


    Thinking of this, Shen Qitian clenched his fists, his eyes shing with intense malice.


    "Brother Shen, are you okay?" the young demon seed beside him asked.


    "I''m fine!" Shen Qitian shook his head, suppressing his anger.


    The next few days would be a period of quiet waiting for the torch-passing ceremony to begin.


    All participants in this ceremony were exceptional. The young demon seeds were the reincarnations of demon lords or even Tianzhu, their talents extraordinarily high, much like Jian Ao. Some even had higher cultivation levels than Jian Ao.


    As for the demon lords, they were even more powerful, almost all at the Imperial Extreme Realm. Ten demon lords were participating, and the individuals they invited were certainly not ordinary.


    Thus, Zhong Shan''s group didn''t seem to have a significant advantage.

 Chapter 501: Benefitting All Living Beings

    <h4>Chapter 501: Benefitting All Living Beings</h4>


    Three days passed in the blink of an eye. The day for selecting the torch-passing candidates had arrived. However, the twenty-one groups did not gather together.


    The night before, each of the twenty-one groups received a strange jade token. The jade token was crimson and emitted a faint glow. It contained a peculiar energy that prevented it from being stored in a storage bracelet.


    Subsequently, everyone heard the rules for the torch-passing ceremony through a mysterious, ethereal voice��it was the voice of the Tianzhu of Youming Heaven.


    After Jian Ao and Zhong Shan revealed their identities and stepped out of the hall, they were instantly transported away by a powerful force. Neither of them resisted because the ethereal voice had informed them that this was the doing of the Tianzhu of Youming Heaven.


    The two found themselves transported to a location within the Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain.


    The torch-passing ceremony consisted of two stages. The first stage was simple: each group needed to obtain three jade tokens to ascend through the thickyer of ck clouds that had mysteriously appeared above the mountain. Flying through the clouds without three tokens meant forfeiting thepetition.


    Standing in a forest, Zhong Shan frowned deeply.


    "Youming Heaven is different from other sacrednds. Here, it''s survival of the fittest. Even if they are from Youming Heaven, you need not hesitate��kill if you must!" Jian Ao said coldly.


    "Kill if necessary," he continued, emphasizing that the uing trials were life-and-death battles. There was no need to consider the identities of the opponents; only by killing could one obtain the jade tokens.


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    Kill if necessary? Thepanions brought by the young demon seeds were mostly at the Imperial Extreme Realm. While the young demon seeds themselves were formidable, the demon lords, being Emperor Extreme Realm experts, would have equally powerful helpers.


    To kill or be killed?


    A bead of cold sweat appeared on Zhong Shan''s forehead. Was it going to be them killing him, or him killing them?


    Despite the unexpectedness, Zhong Shan felt no fear. Emperor Extreme Realm? Bring it on. He had never challenged an Emperor Extreme Realm expert before.


    Jian Ao was in charge of the jade token, and Zhong Shan had no objections. After all, his main purpose here was to help Jian Ao pass the trials.


    The Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain was half the size of Earth, a terrifyingly vast area. Other than the restriction on flying above the clouds, there were no other limitations. Therefore, finding others wasn''t just about using one''s eyes; a sweep of one''s spiritual sense could cover a vast area.


    The Tianzhu of Youming Heaven had dispersed the twenty-one groups across different locations, but meeting each other wouldn''t be too difficult or time-consuming.


    "Let''s go!" Jian Ao said, indicating his intention to seek out opponents.


    "No, instead of searching for others, we should find a ce and wait for them toe to us," Zhong Shan suggested, shaking his head.


    "Oh?" Jian Ao was slightly surprised but then nodded after considering Zhong Shan''s suggestion.


    Finding a strategic location to lie in wait, Jian Ao dismissed the idea, but Zhong Shan was different. If they were going to wait, they would do it properly, choosing a ce that offered them the best advantage. After all, there was a fifty percent chance they would encounter a powerful Emperor Extreme Realm threat.


    It didn''t take long for Zhong Shan to select a spot��an open area with arge swamp nearby. Now, it was time to wait patiently.


    Zhong Shan set up a fire and began roasting a wild rabbit he had caught in the forest. The slight glow of the fire and the rising smoke made their presence obvious.


    Zhong Shan intentionally exposed their position. The Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain was vast, and even with spiritual senses, finding opponents was no easy task.


    As the smoke rose, it caught the attention of another group just as the rabbit finished roasting.


    "Yo, Old Nine, having a leisurely time?" A sudden voice came from a distant mountain peak.


    Jian Ao quickly stood up, looking coldly toward the peak.


    Two figures appeared at the peak, one in gold robes and the other in red.


    The gold-robed man, clearly another young demon seed, spoke.


    "Old Three?" Jian Ao replied with a faint smile.


    With a swift movement, the two figures descended the mountain andnded nearby.


    Old Three? Old Nine?


    Over the past two days, Zhong Shan had learned from Jian Ao about the peculiar birth order of the young demon seeds of Youming Heaven. They were born around the same time through secret methods and were ranked ording to their inherent potential. The one with the best potential was Old One, and so on.


    Jian Ao''s potential was extraordinary, the most remarkable Zhong Shan had ever seen, yet among these young demon seeds, he was only ranked ninth.


    Old Three kept his eyes on Jian Ao, while the red-robed man apanying him gave Zhong Shan a sinister smile, clearly more interested in him. This was the man whom Sekong had referred to as his uncle, confident he could handle Zhong Shan.


    "Old Nine, how''s that self-created sword technique of yours? Want some pointers from your brother?" Old Three mocked.


    Jian Ao smiled faintly, his eyes deep and unreadable.


    "Of course, the tuition fee is that jade token," Old Three said bluntly.


    "Who lives and who dies remains to be seen. If you want my jade token, where''s yours?" Jian Ao responded.


    Both Old Three and Jian Ao took out their jade tokens. They knew a fierce battle was imminent, with no need for reservations.


    Everyone in Youming Heaven understood the rule: fight to win or perish.


    With a hum, Old Three flipped out a golden long knife. It exuded a fierce aura, radiating golden killing intent in all directions.


    Jian Ao reached for the sword on his back. The sword had always been sheathed, its true form unseen until now. When Jian Ao drew the ck sword, everyone''s eyes widened.


    Sword? Scabbard? This wasn''t just a scabbard; it was part of the sword itself��a massive, unsharpened greatsword, more like a gigantic club.


    "Haha, Old Nine, you''re not going to use that heavy lump against my zing Sun de, are you?" Old Threeughed with a teasing smile.


    "An edge-less heavy sword, great skill is unrefined!" Jian Ao dered.


    As soon as Jian Ao finished speaking, he swung his heavy sword towards Old Three.


    Despite the sword''s apparent heaviness, Jian Ao''s strike seemed slow. Old Three smirked in mockery at the seemingly sluggish attack, raising his zing sun de to meet it.


    But as Old Three''s de met the heavy sword, he realized his mistake. The sword wasn''t slow; it carried an immense force, drawing in the surroundings and turning everything into sword intent directed at Old Three.


    Jian Ao seemed to merge with the heavy sword, and not just the sword but the entire mountain behind him as well. The sword strike carried the momentum of the world, crashing down on Old Three.


    "Boom!"


    The sh of sword and de produced a thunderous explosion, forcing Old Three to quickly evade the impact.


    "Well, well, well, Old Nine, I underestimated you," Old Three sneered as he leaped into the air.


    Jian Ao waved his hand, and suddenly, it seemed as if countless sword energies appeared. From the ground, sword-like spikes erupted, shooting towards the sky.


    In an instant, the area around Jian Ao and Old Three was filled with swords, millions of them, pouring down on Old Three like a storm of arrows.


    Old Three''s pupils contracted in anger. Behind him, a gigantic phantom de appeared in the sky, descending with overwhelming force. The golden de shadow was domineering, splitting the air and sending turbulent air currents in all directions.


    Old Three merged with the celestial de energy, striking down at Jian Ao.


    Two Imperial Extreme Realm experts, engaging in a true battle of titans.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan faced the red-robed man in their own standoff.


    The match-up was clear: Jian Ao against Old Three, and Zhong Shan against the red-robed man. A fair one-on-one duel.


    Zhong Shan waved his hand, causing the nearby swamp to roil and the ground beneath him to transform into a swampy mire.


    With a roar, the swamp churned, sending waves of mud towering into the sky. The massive tidal wave of mud formed behind Zhong Shan, surging towards the red-robed man.


    Zhong Shan''s main body practiced the "Heavenly Thunder Transformation," while his shadow body practiced a pure yin technique from the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, "Benefitting All Living Beings."


    Heavenly Thunder Transformation connected with the heavens, summoning endless thunderclouds for Zhong Shan to unleash.


    Benefitting All Living Beings connected with the earth, creating vast swamps for Zhong Shan to wield. Naturally, the effect was even more pronounced in a swampy area.


    The violent swamp waves surged like a tsunami towards the red-robed man, engulfing the ground and forest behind him, transforming everything into a mire. The swamp tsunami surrounded the red-robed man, engulfing the heavens and the earth.


    While Jian Ao and Old Three shed with sword and de, the force emanating from Zhong Shan''s duel was equally fierce, the sky and ground covered in raging mud waves.


    Perhaps Zhong Shan and hispanions were extraordinarily lucky, as another group noticed their battle.


    Finding anyone in the vast Yin-Yang Two Realms Mountain was a difficult task, even with intense fighting. However, luck favored Zhong Shan, and a third group spotted them.


    The new arrivals weren''t led by a demon lord but another young demon seed. This young demon seed''s assistant was someone familiar to Zhong Shan��Shen Qitian.

 Chapter 502:You are the only one who dies

    <h4>Chapter 502:You are the only one who dies</h4>


    Shen Qitian and the young demon seed quickly hid in the forest, suppressing their auras as they observed the distant battle.


    "Is that Old Three and Old Nine?" the young demon seed asked excitedly.


    Shen Qitian, however, focused his gaze on Zhong Shan. Seeing the endless mud waves rise to the sky, Shen Qitian''s eyes shed with resentment. The "Benefitting All Living Beings" technique should have been his, but now it was in Zhong Shan''s hands.


    "Brother Shen, this is perfect. Old Three and Old Nine are fighting. If they both get injured, we can swoop in and easily collect the three jade tokens," the young demon seed said excitedly.


    "Things are not that simple. Look at Zhong Shan. He wields the powerful ''Benefitting All Living Beings'' technique from the former Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. Defeating that red-robed man shouldn''t be too difficult for him," Shen Qitian said gravely.


    Indeed, "Benefitting All Living Beings" was formidable. The enormous mud waves roared, filling the sky and enveloping both Zhong Shan and the red-robed man.


    Inside the mud waves, the two fought fiercely.


    In the mud?


    Zhong Shan had chosen this technique for this very reason. He remembered reading in a magazine about how bullets lost their lethality after traveling just ten meters through water, illustrating the immense resistance of water. If water could offer such resistance, then mud would be even more formidable.


    In the mud waves, Zhong Shan remained unrestricted, while his opponent''s power was halved, giving Zhong Shan a significant advantage.


    Thus, Zhong Shan chose this technique without hesitation. "Benefitting All Living Beings" indeed benefited him greatly.


    Shen Qitian took a deep breath as he watched the massive mud waves in the distance.


    "This technique is indeed overpowered. Once trapped in the mud, one is at a severe disadvantage," Shen Qitian thought.


    "Don''t worry. Old Three has better potential than Old Nine, so he should have the upper hand. Here, Zhong Shan has the advantage. With both sides shing, their overall strength should be about equal. All we need to do is wait," the young demon seed said.


    "Wait?" Shen Qitian raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, wait. Even if one side remains unscathed, your Purple Gold Patterned Dragon Staff''s seal has been unlocked, right? The power stored within it for three strikes of ''Fixing the Sea'' is equivalent to a peak Imperial Extreme Realm full-strength strike. You''ve only used it once, so there are still two uses left. Plus, you''ll be attacking by surprise. We can''t lose," the young demon seed said eagerly.


    "Fixing the Sea?" Shen Qitian nced at the young demon seed, his eyes showing a hint of coldness.


    Fixing the Sea was indeed a powerful force sealed in his staff from his past life. It was incredibly potent. He had used it once to severely injure Jian Hong, providing him a long period of safety. Who knew when Jian Hong would recover from his injuries? He needed to ensure his safety.


    However, Zhong Shan must die.


    Shen Qitian drew out the Purple Gold Patterned Dragon Staff, looking at the massive mud waves in the distance.


    With a wave of his hand, the enormous staff shot into the sky, disappearing into the clouds.


    "Brother Shen, what are you doing? They haven''t fought to the point of mutual destruction yet. If we attack now, they''ll notice us and join forces against us," the young demon seed said, his eyes shing with concern.


    "Don''t worry. I know what I''m doing," Shen Qitian said with a wicked smile.


    The young demon seed nodded, epting Shen Qitian''s assurance.


    Shen Qitian smirked coldly. Wait until the end? What if Zhong Shan escaped? If he had the chance to kill Zhong Shan now, he would take it. As for the young demon seed? Their rtionship was superficial at best. Whether he seeded in the torch-passing ceremony was of no concern to Shen Qitian.


    In the distant valley, a vast expanse of muddy swamp had turned into a turbulent sea, with waves crashing skyward like a relentless storm. Clearly, an intense battle raged within.


    Suddenly, a deafening explosion shattered the air, "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The entire sea of mud erupted violently, sending waves of muck flying in all directions. Half of the swamp was sted away, revealing a man in a red robe.


    His eyes flickered with uncertainty, and a faint purple glow emanated from the "Yao" character on his forehead��a divine mark. Only by activating this mark did the red-robed man manage to escape Zhong Shan''s trap, his power surging dramatically.


    His clothing was in tatters, and his exposed body was covered in blood. If he hadn''t activated the divine mark at thest moment, today might have been his end.


    Despite his ragged appearance, the red-robed man''s confidence grew. With the divine mark activated, he no longer feared Zhong Shan. His power had increased significantly, nearing the Empyrean Realm.


    As the red-robed man escaped, Zhong Shan gradually retracted the surrounding mud, revealing himself. The two men stared coldly at each other once more.


    In the distance, Shen Qitian, unaware of the red-robed man''s surge in power, only saw Zhong Shan unscathed, while the red-robed man looked battered and bloodied. Zhong Shan''s strength was indeed formidable.


    Deciding to act, Shen Qitian pointed towards Zhong Shan. The Purple-Gold Dragon Staff, which had soared into the clouds, responded as if receiving an order. It descended rapidly, aimed straight at Zhong Shan.


    The staff grewrger andrger as it fell, transforming into a colossal pir that seemed to pierce the sky. The immense force from its base created an overwhelming pressure, causing nearby mountains to copse under its weight. This was just its aura; the actual staff was aimed directly at Zhong Shan, threatening to crush him.


    The power of the staff, capable of stabilizing the seas, was incredible. The surrounding air rippled and distorted under its might, creating an almost surreal scene. Even before the staff hit the ground, its pressure had already crushed the mountains. The red-robed man, despite his enhanced power, dared not confront it and retreated with difficulty.


    The staff locked onto Zhong Shan, as if determined to smash him to pieces. He looked up, realizing there was no time to dodge. The staff was already upon him.


    From a distance, Shen Qitian watched intently. The staff struck.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The staff collided with Zhong Shan, smashing into the earth and creating a kilometer-deep crater. The impact caused surrounding mountains to copse. The red-robed man narrowly avoided the destruction, feeling both relieved and terrified.


    The massive staff shrank instantly, transforming into a streak of light that returned to Shen Qitian''s hand.


    The mighty strike reverberated through thend. The fierce battle between Jian Ao and the third elder halted abruptly as they looked towards the source of themotion. They immediately saw Shen Qitian and the demonic youth in the distance.


    "Seventh Brother?" Jian Ao and the Third Elder''s eyes turned cold.


    In the midst of their fierce battle, there was a bystander trying to benefit? Immediately, their killing intent shifted towards Lao Qi. How dare he attempt a sneak attack? Not a chance.


    Lao Qi felt wronged to the core. If his sneak attack had seeded, it would have been fine, but now he was exposed and in trouble. He cast a cold nce at Shen Qitian.


    Shen Qitian, gripping the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff, had a maniacal gleam of excitement in his eyes.


    Zhong Shan must be dead. Under such circumstances, there was no way he could survive. He must be dead.


    "Hahahahaha," Shen Qitianughed heartily and then shot into the sky.


    Ignoring everyone else''s fury, he broke through the ck clouds and fled alone.


    Flying out of the ck clouds? Naturally, no one would pursue him; chasing him would mean forfeiting thepetition, and who would want that?


    Lao Qi felt like coughing up blood, cursing himself for his poor judgment in choosing such an assistant.


    Seeing Shen Qitian leave, Lao Qi didn''t hesitate and fled in the opposite direction, disappearing without a trace. Staying would only incur the wrath of both groups, so he chose to escape quickly.


    With Lao Qi and Shen Qitian gone, the remaining three turned their gaze back to the massive crater.


    Was Zhong Shan dead?


    The Third Elder and the man in the red robe believed Zhong Shan was dead. After all, such a sneak attack would be impossible to evade, even for them. Only Jian Ao believed Zhong Shan was still alive and flew towards the crater.


    Was Zhong Shan still alive? Of course.


    Or rather, Zhong Shan hadn''t been hurt at all.


    The Zhong Shan that was supposedly crushed by the "Sea Stabilizing" staff was merely a shadow clone. From the moment he entered the Underworld Heaven, Zhong Shan had swapped identities.


    Using a shadow clone to rece himself, his real body had be a shadow hiding within the shadow clone.


    A shadow clone could only exist for one hour each day, but Zhong Shan had more than one shadow clone, allowing him to continuously supply new clones.


    One shadow clone was crushed, but Zhong Shan had hundreds more.


    The Myriad Shadows Sutra, like the Hongluan Sutra, was a heaven-defying technique. For Zhong Shan, whose body was a shadow, this technique seemed tailor-made. Having cultivated the eighth level of the twelve-level Myriad Shadows Sutra, Zhong Shan had be exceedingly formidable.


    The man in the red robe, standing near the crater, felt a twinge of regret. He wished Zhong Shan had died by his hand.


    "Old Ninth, your assistant is dead. Hand over your jade token, and I will spare your life," the Third Elder said, smiling as he looked at Jian Ao.


    "You''re the one who''s dead!" A voice suddenly retorted from not far away.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s voice, the Third Elder and the man in the red robe stiffened, their eyes nearly bulging out of their heads.


    People can scare each other to death. Even in the Imperial Realm, an unexpected event could still shock them.


    Following the voice, they saw Zhong Shan emerging from a pile of rubble, lookingpletely unscathed.


    How could this be? How could he have avoided it? That previous strike was something even an Empyrean Realm expert couldn''t evade; they would have to take it head-on. Yet Zhong Shan seemed perfectly fine, not even a speck of dirt on his clothes. How was this possible?

 Chapter 503: Creating Soldiers from Beans

    <h4>Chapter 503: Creating Soldiers from Beans</h4>


    Zhong Shan emerged, fixing his gaze directly on the man in the red robe. The man had a "Yao" character divine mark on his forehead, simr to those of the Demon Nightmare Army, but more advanced, akin to the mark seen on the Great Gold Emperor who created the ''Ming Yuan Pills'' on the altar.


    These were purple divine marks.


    This was an organization, and the powerful Demon Nightmare Army was merely a small branch of its forces. It was the third time in just a few decades that Zhong Shan had encountered them. Was it fate tying him to this organization, or had their influence grown tremendously?


    "Who are you to Sekong?" Zhong Shan asked the man in the red robe in a deep voice.


    Zhong Shan had an irreconcble grudge with this organization and naturally had no intention of being polite.


    "Lin Zhen, deal with him," the Third Elder said to the man in the red robe.


    Having spoken, the Third Elder shifted his focus back to Jian Ao.


    "Old Ninth, we were interrupted by Old Seventh earlier. Let''s continue," the Third Elder said coldly.


    Jian Ao had no objection, and with a swing of his heavy sword, the two resumed their battle, moving further away as their every strike was immensely powerful, being experts of the Imperial Realm.


    With the threat gone, Zhong Shan and Lin Zhen faced off once more.


    "Sekong is my junior nephew, but it doesn''t matter if you know or not, because you are about to be a corpse. No, for my two deceased junior brothers, I will ensure you die without aplete body," Lin Zhen said, his tone chilling.


    Lin Zhen''s face grew exceedingly cold, but the "Yao" character on his forehead gradually faded away.


    The "Yao" character disappeared?


    Zhong Shan was slightly surprised. Activating the divine mark boosted strength significantly, but retracting it would restore his strength to its original state. If Lin Zhen''s strength returned to normal, then what was the meaning behind his ruthless words?


    "Since you are about to die, let me show you what a true treasure is. What an immortal treasure truly is," Lin Zhen said.


    As he spoke, Lin Zhen flipped his hand, revealing a handful of golden beans.


    Seeing the beans in Lin Zhen''s hand, Zhong Shan instinctively sensed something ominous and took a step back to upy a more advantageous position.


    Noting Zhong Shan''s movement, Lin Zhen sneered and tossed the beans to the ground instead of at Zhong Shan.


    As the golden beans scattered on the ground, Lin Zhen continuously formed hand seals.


    Each hand seal seemed to imprint upon the surrounding space, drawing an invisible energy towards the golden beans, causing them to emit a radiant, multicolored glow.


    "Lin, Bing, Dou, Zhe," Lin Zhen chanted sharply.


    With the utterance of these four incantations, the beans responded as if unlocking from an invisible shackle.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Nearly a hundred beans exploded into a cloud of smoke, enveloping the area.


    At this moment, Lin Zhen revealed a sinister smile.


    As the smoke cleared, the ground was suddenly filled with a hundred golden figures.


    These figures were all burly men d in golden armor, exuding a menacing aura. Their eyes were hollow, and they wielded massive broadswords, looking like seasoned warriors.


    Beans? These warriors were transformed from those beans?


    Zhong Shan observed closely. These golden warriors were indeed the result of the golden beans.


    Immortal treasure? Was it given by their master? Mr. Corpse had once said that the leader of this organization likely hailed from the Great Thousand World. It seemed to be true.


    Immortal treasure? Creating soldiers from beans? Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed deeply.


    With an eerieugh from Lin Zhen, the foremost golden-armored warrior suddenly moved. Leaving only an afterimage, he dashed towards Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan, always on guard, quickly dodged as the afterimage approached, but his heart was in turmoil.


    Imperial Realm? This golden-armored warrior is at the Imperial Realm? How is that possible?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The warrior''s sh carved a terrifying trench a hundred meters deep into the earth. Imperial Realm��truly Imperial Realm. Both the speed and power of the attack were unmistakably at the Imperial Realm. Although it seemed to be only the first level of the Imperial Realm, it was still the Imperial Realm.


    If one golden-armored warrior was at the Imperial Realm, what about the other ny-nine?


    "Kill!" Lin Zhenmanded, and the remaining ny-nine Imperial Realm warriors charged at Zhong Shan.


    The earth was instantly filled with a hundred golden afterimages. They were incredibly fast, reaching Zhong Shan in the blink of an eye.


    These golden-armored warriors were overwhelmingly powerful.


    A hundred of them?


    Zhong Shan was at the second level of the Imperial Realm, while these warriors were only at the first level. However, there were a hundred of them. Anyone would be overwhelmed by such numbers.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan summoned a vast amount of mud, which soared into the sky, bing his ally.


    But what use was it? Handling a few Imperial Realm warriors was possible, but a hundred? It was impossible to manage, especially when a hundred Imperial Realm warriors attacked simultaneously. Thebined force was terrifying.


    As Zhong Shan swiftly dodged, Lin Zhen stood aside with a broad smile.


    The treasure given by his master was indeed extraordinarily powerful. A hundred Imperial Realm warriors��a formation invincible below the Empyrean Realm.


    However, Zhong Shan had a unique advantage with his shadow body��speed. Much faster than others in the same realm. Like a phantom, he weaved through the golden-armored warriors, evading them effortlessly.


    Zhong Shan even abandoned his ''Mud Over All Life'' technique, seemingly enjoying the thrill.


    No, it was provocation. Zhong Shan danced around all the golden-armored warriors. He even baited two warriors to attack him simultaneously. At the critical moment, he dodged, causing the two warriors to strike each other.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s agile evasion, Lin Zhen''s face darkened. "Form the array!" he shouted.


    An array?


    Zhong Shan heard Lin Zhen''smand. Could these golden-armored warriors actually form an array?


    While Zhong Shan was still pondering, the golden-armored warriors positioned themselves into a formation.


    Instantly, the warriors formed a hexagonal pattern and coordinated a sh. Enveloped in endless golden light, they merged into a mass of golden energy, rushing towards Zhong Shan.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Zhong Shan narrowly dodged. The speed of the golden energy in formation was exponentially faster, causing even Zhong Shan, proud of his speed, to break into a cold sweat.


    As Zhong Shan dodged, he caught sight of the golden energy''s impact. A distant mountain exploded into fragments under the terrifying collision.


    One strike had obliterated a mountain?


    But it wasn''t over. After pulverizing the mountain, the golden energy rushed towards Zhong Shan again, reaching him in the blink of an eye.


    Zhong Shan dared not confront it directly. He swiftly dodged, barely avoiding the attack, but his upper garment was shed open.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Another mountain exploded, and the golden energy surged again.


    "Hahahahaha," Lin Zhenughed maniacally.


    Watching Zhong Shan struggle so desperately against the golden-armored warriors gave Lin Zhen an immense sense of satisfaction.


    After several more attacks, Zhong Shan''s clothes were increasingly tattered. He looked more and more battered.


    However, Zhong Shan''s situation was not as desperate as Lin Zhen imagined. Suddenly, a wicked smile appeared on Zhong Shan''s lips.


    As this smile spread across his face,


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The golden light sphere exploded. The formation of the hundred golden-armored warriors was disrupted, and one warrior''s arm was severed without anyone noticing.


    Lin Zhen''s eyes widened in shock and uncertainty. How did Zhong Shan do it? How was it possible?


    As the scattered golden-armored warriors attempted to regroup, Zhong Shan looked up at Lin Zhen and said, "Creating soldiers from beans? It''s nothing special!"


    Nothing special? Lin Zhen sneered coldly. Nothing special? You''re about to die. A vicious glint appeared in Lin Zhen''s eyes.


    "I can do it too!" Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    Lin Zhen, who had been about to choke on his own saliva, coughed violently.


    "You''re joking? You can do it too?" Lin Zhen coughed, his face turning red, his tone dripping with sarcasm.


    "Yes, I learned from you!" Zhong Shan nodded, reaching down to grab a handful of stones from the ground.


    Seeing Zhong Shan pick up a handful of rubble, Lin Zhen was momentarily bewildered. Was Zhong Shan a fool? Lin Zhen''s bean soldiers were a treasure given by his master. Did Zhong Shan think he could achieve the same with some random stones?


    With a cold smile, Lin Zhen prepared tomand the golden-armored warriors to attack again.


    Not far away, Zhong Shan mimicked Lin Zhen''s earlier actions, tossing the stones into the air. The stones, devoid of any spiritual energy, scattered in all directions.


    "Lin, Bing, Dou, Zhe!"


    As Zhong Shan performed identical hand seals, Lin Zhen watched with a mocking smile. Creating soldiers from beans? Zhong Shan had clearly lost his mind.


    Lin Zhen refrained frommanding his warriors, instead watching as the stones fell.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    To Lin Zhen''s astonishment, a cloud of smoke enveloped the area just like before, obscuring everything inside.


    A cloud of smoke? Lin Zhen was taken aback.


    As a gentle breeze dispersed the smoke, the ground was suddenly filled with a hundred ck-robed figures.


    They were all Zhong Shan.


    A hundred identical Zhong Shans stood where the stones hadnded.


    Creating soldiers from beans?


    Turning ordinary stones into soldiers? Lin Zhen''s vision darkened, and he nearly fainted.

 Chapter 504: The Strange Zhong Shan

    <h4>Chapter 504: The Strange Zhong Shan</h4>


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s "creating soldiers from beans" seed, Lin Zhen almost cked out, struggling to maintain hisposure. The sudden appearance of a hundred Zhong Shans made him feel like vomiting blood.


    Impossible, impossible! How could this be?


    Creating soldiers from beans required special celestial beans, beans only the master possessed. No one else could possibly do this.


    But how to exin the hundred Zhong Shans before him?


    Can someone tell me, why? Why can a handful of ordinary stones create soldiers from beans? How could this happen?


    No, this can''t be. It can''t be creating soldiers from beans. These must be illusions, mere illusions.


    Suppressing the turmoil within, Lin Zhen used his divine sense to probe the hundred Zhong Shans.


    The hundred Zhong Shans allowed the probe without resistance.


    They''re real, all real. These are physical entities.


    How could this be? Lin Zhen couldn''t express his current emotions. It was a feeling of frustration, a pent-up frustration that couldn''t be vented.


    Too frustrating.


    He had aplished so much to earn the master''s reward of celestial beans, this powerful treasure. A hundred Imperial Realm warriors, he sometimes even wondered if he could challenge Empyrean Realm experts.


    Each time he thought of this, Lin Zhen felt a surge of pride. Celestial beans, creating soldiers from beans, such a powerful ability. Who couldpare? This was why Lin Zhen thought killing Zhong Shan would be child''s y.


    But when Zhong Shan, imitating his method, used ordinary stones to create soldiers, how could Lin Zhen bear it?


    Of course, Zhong Shan''s "creating soldiers from beans" wasn''t learned from Lin Zhen. It was just a hundred shadow clones.


    Lin Zhen looked at Zhong Shan, his mind filled with doubt. Could it be that the hand seals and incantations worked with ordinary stones too? Lin Zhen began to doubt his own techniques.


    Impossible. These celestial beans were treasures granted by the master. Even if ordinary stones could mimic the effect, the soldiers wouldn''t reach the level of golden-armored warriors.


    With this thought, Lin Zhen''s confidence returned.


    With amand, the golden-armored warriors charged again, while the hundred Zhong Shan shadow clones moved swiftly.


    Speed, terrifying speed. Lin Zhen felt dizzy.


    How could this be? Zhong Shan''s stone soldiers were as fast as Zhong Shan himself?


    "sh, sh, sh..."


    One Zhong Shan per golden-armored warrior, and in an instant, Zhong Shan had the upper hand. Each golden-armored warrior was suddenly injured.


    "Impossible, impossible!" Lin Zhen cried out in disbelief.


    How could ordinary stones create soldiers identical to those made from celestial beans? No, even stronger than those made from celestial beans. Why?


    Zhong Shan watched Lin Zhen with a smile.


    "Form the array!" Lin Zhen shouted.


    "Form the array!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    With the twomands, the golden-armored warriors formed their hexagonal array again. Strangely, the hundred Zhong Shans also formed an identical hexagonal array, with an even more imposing aura than the golden-armored warriors.


    "How do you know this formation?" Lin Zhen eximed.


    This formation was not amonly known array in Shenzhou; it was one he had created himself. Though it was somewhat weak, he was the only one who knew it. How could Zhong Shan also know it?


    Lin Zhen looked at Zhong Shan as if he were seeing a ghost. His nephew Sekong''s words suddenly came to mind:


    "Uncle, this Zhong Shan is very strange, extremely strange."


    "Uncle, do not face Zhong Shan, he is too strange."


    "Zhong Shan is the strangest person I have ever met. It''s not about his cultivation or his luck; he is just incredibly strange, extremely strange!"


    Sekong''s words echoed in his mind. At the time, Lin Zhen had dismissed them. His two junior brothers lost to Zhong Shan due to some special circumstances or bad luck. Strange? Nonsense. No matter how strange, he was still just a human. How could he be like what Sekong described?


    A monster? Strange? Now, looking back, Lin Zhen finally believed Sekong''s words. Strange, no, too strange. Monster, no, too monstrous.


    Lin Zhen regretted not heeding Sekong''s warnings.


    Standing behind the formation of golden-armored warriors, in a very advantageous position, Lin Zhenmanded them to charge. In the distance, Zhong Shan also directed his ''bean soldiers'' to form an identical array and charge forward.


    How did Zhong Shan know this formation?


    The hundred shadow clones weren''t created when he threw the stones. They had been hidden in the shadows of the golden-armored warriors from the moment they were formed. Thus, the formation''s structure and activation were no secret to Zhong Shan. When he broke the formation earlier, it was because one of his shadow clones disrupted it from within.


    Zhong Shan looked at the shadow clone formation and coldly smiled at Lin Zhen in the distance.


    Bean soldiers against bean soldiers, the two masters stared coldly across the battlefield.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s cold smile, Lin Zhen instinctively felt something was wrong.


    Wrong? Where was this feelinging from? What was wrong?


    As Lin Zhen pondered, a sudden chill ran down his spine. A strong sense of danger enveloped him.


    Death? Lin Zhen suddenly felt the threat of death.


    In his fear, Lin Zhen quickly activated the divine mark on his forehead and raised his protective aura.


    Unfortunately, it was toote.


    He was up against Zhong Shan, a true monster.


    As soon as the divine mark activated, a long sword pierced through the back of his head.


    From start to finish, Lin Zhen had no idea where the enemy came from.


    The sword pierced his head, then shed down vertically, giving him no time to fully activate his protective aura. Lin Zhen was dead. Just before his death, his consciousness finally understood what had happened.


    It was the shadow, his own shadow. A figure had suddenly emerged from his shadow��it was Zhong Shan. How could this be? How could Zhong Shan hide in his shadow? How was this possible?


    Lin Zhen couldn''t think any further. Zhong Shan''s attack shattered his very soul. Lin Zhen died, his final thought being that Zhong Shan was too strange. He should never have provoked Zhong Shan.


    With eyes wide open in death, Lin Zhen was dismembered by Zhong Shan.


    Of course, at the moment this Zhong Shan appeared, the one standing in the distance disappeared simultaneously.


    A bizarre scene unfolded, disying an unprecedented, sinisterbat style.


    As Lin Zhen died, the golden-armored warriors in the distance disintegrated.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A cloud of smoke dispersed, leaving behind a hundred golden celestial beans. At the same time, Zhong Shan''s shadow clones released a simr cloud of smoke and then merged back into his shadow body.


    Grabbing the celestial beans, Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up with surprise. These were valuable.


    A hundred Imperial Realm warriors! With a flip of his hand, he tried to store them in his storage bracelet, but they wouldn''t go in. Remembering the limitations simr to the bat pouch from the past, he decided to tuck them into his robe.


    With Lin Zhen dead, Zhong Shan turned his gaze to the ongoing battle between Jian Ao and the Third Elder.


    "Jian Ao, hurry up!" Zhong Shan called out.


    With Zhong Shan''s shout,


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A massive sword aura appeared from the sky, pitch-ck and identical to the one in Jian Ao''s hand, emanating an overwhelming sword intent as it descended. Jian Ao himself retreated.


    The powerful sword intent surged with a mighty force, targeting the Third Elder.


    The Third Elder''s eyes widened in disbelief as he looked up.


    Sword intent, from Jian Ao, but how could it be this strong? How did it be so powerful in an instant?


    There was no time to think; the Third Elder raised his de to meet the attack.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The formidable sword aura seemed unstoppable, colliding fiercely with the Third Elder''s de.


    With a thunderous crash, the Third Elder was sted into the ground, unable to withstand the force.


    "Pu~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    He spat a mouthful of blood, his body covered in blood, and his clothes in tatters. The golden de in his hand was shattered by the sword aura.


    Defeated, utterly andpletely. Jian Ao''s sword intent was too powerful.


    With just one strike, the Third Elder was thoroughly defeated, without a doubt.


    Could it be that the previous bnce was just a ruse? Had Jian Ao not been fighting seriously?


    Dragging his severely injured body, the Third Elder looked at the impably dressed Jian Ao with disheveled hair.


    "You...," the Third Elder managed to say before falling silent.


    "You could have handled both of them alone, but you wanted to see my strength?" Zhong Shan frowned, showing his displeasure.


    The Third Elder finally understood why Jian Ao had toyed with him earlier. It was merely to observe his assistant''s capabilities. Lin Zhen was dead, and his celestial beans, capable of creating a hundred Imperial Realm warriors, were also gone?


    Zhong Shan was abnormal, and Jian Ao was even more so.


    That sword intent, was it his own creation? It was too strong, overwhelmingly so, leaving no room for resistance. Only an Empyrean Realm expert could possibly face it head-on.


    Old Ninth? Even the leader wasn''t this abnormal. He was merely at the Imperial Realm, just the Imperial Realm!


    The Third Elder felt a deep sense of defeat. What he once prided himself on was nothing more than a joke in the eyes of others.


    Jian Ao noticed Zhong Shan''s displeasure and shook his head with a smile, saying, "Don''t be upset, Zhong Shan. It''s been many years since west met. I wanted to spar with you but felt the time wasn''t right, so I wanted to see how much you''ve grown."


    Jian Ao''s words were candid, without any pretense.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath, nodded, and let it go. He wasn''t petty, and he didn''t want to spar with Jian Ao now.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s understanding, Jian Ao nodded with a trace of guilt. He reached out and took the Third Elder''s jade token, then quickly flew away with Zhong Shan, pursuing the direction Old Seventh had fled.


    The Third Elder saw Jian Ao take his jade token without even acknowledging him and showed a bitter smile. It turned out that Old Ninth had never regarded him as an equal.

 Chapter 505: Too Ruthless

    <h4>Chapter 505: Too Ruthless</h4>


    Now they had two jade tokens, needing only one more. Following the direction Old Seventh had fled, Zhong Shan and Jian Ao flew swiftly.


    Of course, finding Old Seventh was mostly a matter of luck, as they had no idea where he had gone. As they flew, Jian Ao suddenly elerated like a sharp sword, testing Zhong Shan''s speed.


    And how fast was Zhong Shan? With his shadow body, his speed was unmatched, perhaps even faster than most Empyrean Realm experts.


    "Whoosh!"


    Two gusts of wind swept across the Yin-Yang Border Mountain. Jian Ao''s speed reached eighty percent of his maximum, yet he still couldn''t gauge Zhong Shan''s limit.


    Jian Ao, a sword cultivator known for their speed, couldn''t shake off Zhong Shan. Shaking his head, Jian Ao slowed down. Neither had gone all out; both had their own secrets, and this smallpetition was enough to get a sense of each other''s abilities without being too serious.


    They flew past countless mountains, and just as Jian Ao was about to give up, a brilliant white light erupted in the distance. Infinite sword energy sprayed in all directions like an endless rain of swords descending upon the world.


    Another peerless sword cultivator.


    Above, endless sword energy revolved around a massive circle, as if a vast power was forcing the sword energy into submission. Below was an expanse of the vast sea, momentarily frozen as countless ice spikes shot skyward, seemingly intent on destroying everything, transforming the entire world into a domain of swords.


    Zhong Shan and Jian Ao halted together, their eyes fixed on the center of this sword domain, where three figures stood out as ck dots.


    One was Old Seventh, who had encountered a blockade. Evidently, he had resisted earlier but had been forced to relinquish his jade token under the overwhelming sword intent.


    The other two figures, one of whom Zhong Shan recognized immediately, were Han Jiguang, the former Great Emperor of the Da Guang Imperial Court. After the fall of the Da Yu Imperial Court, he too had been overthrown. However, Han Jiguang had survived.


    Unexpectedly, Zhong Shan encountered him here.


    Han Jiguang, d in a purple robe, stood quietly to the side. Even without taking action, his aura projected a powerful presence. Any sword energy approaching within a hundred feet of him shattered.


    The other figure was a white-robed man, dressed in snow-white garments with ayer of frost on his face. He wielded a long sword that was transparent like a ss sword. Despite its ordinary appearance, in the hands of such a peerless expert, it was anything but ordinary.


    "Ice Soul Divine Sword?" Jian Ao''s eyebrows raised.


    As Zhong Shan and Jian Ao noticed the group in the distance, the people there seemed to suddenly notice them as well.


    The white-robed man was in the midst of collecting Old Seventh''s jade token when Han Jiguang made a move.


    With a wave of his hand, Han Jiguang shot a blue beam towards Zhong Shan and Jian Ao.


    The blue light moved incredibly fast. Initially, Zhong Shan thought it was a magical treasure, but as the blue light approached with terrifying speed, he realized it was merely a beam of light.


    Reacting quickly, Zhong Shan and Jian Ao dodged the attack, their movements fluid and precise.


    Han Jiguang and the white-robed man seemed unfazed. The white-robed manpleted the collection of Old Seventh''s jade token and turned his attention to Zhong Shan and Jian Ao.


    "Han Jiguang," Zhong Shan called out, his voice carrying across the battlefield.


    Han Jiguang''s eyes narrowed as he recognized Zhong Shan. A cold smile spread across his face as he replied, "Zhong Shan, long time no see."


    Zhong Shan nodded slightly. "Indeed. It seems fate continues to intertwine our paths."


    The white-robed man, with an icy demeanor, interrupted, "You two know each other? Interesting. But today, none of that matters. Hand over your jade tokens or face the consequences."


    Jian Ao stepped forward, his sword radiating an intense aura. "You think you can just demand and we''llply? You underestimate us."


    The tension in the air thickened as the four powerful figures prepared for a confrontation. The battlefield was set, and the sh of titans was imminent.


    The speed was overwhelming, leaving no time to react as the blue light enveloped Jian Ao and Zhong Shan. They both immediately shielded themselves.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A sudden gust of wind blew past, and around Zhong Shan and Jian Ao, countless ice crystals appeared.


    No, it wasn''t just ice crystals; a massive cubic block of ice, each side a hundred zhang long, formed around them, encasing thempletely. This wasn''t just any ice block; even diamond couldn''t match its hardness.


    It was infinitely sturdy.


    The Extreme Light Crystal Wall!


    Zhong Shan immediately recognized it from his past research. This was one of Han Jiguang''s strongest techniques, the Extreme Light Crystal Wall. When deployed, it became an indestructible shield that Han Jiguang had used to defeat countless opponents. It could be used not only as a shield but also for confinement. It was rumored that anyone below the Empyrean Realm, if trapped inside without external help, could never escape and would eventually die, even their soul frozen within.


    The Extreme Light Crystal Wall?


    Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow and, in a flicker, appeared outside the crystal wall.


    What kind of constitution did the shadow body possess? Not to mention that shadow clones could be shadows, invisible and formless; even Zhong Shan''s shadow body itself was invisible and formless. How could such an entity be confined by the Extreme Light Crystal Wall?


    Seeing Zhong Shan emerge effortlessly from the crystal wall, Han Jiguang''s pupils contracted with disbelief. Inside the crystal wall where Zhong Shan had been, there was no hole left behind.


    What? Han Jiguang''s eyebrows furrowed.


    As he pondered, a deafening explosion shattered the air.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Extreme Light Crystal Wall shattered into pieces, with endless sword energy bursting out in all directions, shooting towards the sky like a surge of sword aura.


    Jian Ao stood like a towering sword, poised above the sea.


    Han Jiguang frowned even deeper. He knew the Extreme Light Crystal Wall''s strength well. It had shattered? Just the sword aura had broken it? Even newly entered Empyrean Realm experts couldn''t break it so easily.


    Yet,pared to the breaking of the wall, what happened earlier was even more bizarre.


    Too strange. The Extreme Light Crystal Wall was incredibly dense; nothing but light could pass through it. How did he get out so easily?


    Zhong Shan? Was it him?


    Han Jiguang recognized Zhong Shan instantly, his eyes shing with a peculiar light.


    Who was Zhong Shan? Han Jiguang knew better than anyone. The Da Guang and Da Yu Imperial Courts had almost been destroyed by this previously unknown figure.


    At that time, Zhong Shan had only been in the Golden Core stage. A Golden Core stage cultivator had brought down two great imperial courts.


    The Heaven Copse n, with its five steps and the Fourfold Heaven Copse, had established him as a peerless military strategist, rising like aet in the vast expanse of Shenzhou. It was no small feat. Facing the Da Guang Imperial Court, although Han Jiguang had voluntarily given up, without Zhong Shan, he wouldn''t have abandoned it so early.


    Now, Zhong Shan''s cultivation level was beyond Han Jiguang''s discernment.


    At least at the Imperial Realm. How had his cultivation increased so quickly? Too quickly, too monstrously. Could he be a reincarnation of some great power from a previous life? It must be. Otherwise, it would be impossible to cultivate so rapidly.


    Upon realizing the nature of Zhong Shan''s abilities, Han Jiguang''s eyes grew wary.


    In the distance, Old Seventh, having handed over his jade token, soared into the sky, disappearing into the ck clouds, forfeiting his chance at the legacy.


    Momentster, two figures appeared not far from Zhong Shan and Jian Ao.


    "The Ice Soul Divine Sword?" Jian Ao eyed the transparent sword with a peculiar gleam.


    "Sword Master Jian Ao, do you remember this sword?" The man wielding the Ice Soul Divine Sword had a simrly strange look in his eyes.


    "You are Cang Lan Demon Lord? The Ice Soul Divine Sword has acknowledged you as its master again?" Jian Ao remarked with a hint of nostalgia.


    "Indeed, and it is fortuitous that you are here. I have some matters to discuss with you," Cang Lan Demon Lord said.


    "Hmm?" Jian Ao showed a slight confusion.


    "Sword Master Jian Ao, you wielded this Ice Soul Divine Sword thirty thousand years ago, didn''t you?" Cang Lan Demon Lord asked.


    "Correct! Although my past life''s memories have not fully returned, there are records left by my former self. In my past life, I wielded this very Ice Soul Divine Sword, the foremost divine sword of the Netherworld Heaven," Jian Ao nodded.


    "The foremost divine sword of the Netherworld Heaven, indeed. At that time, you were also the master of the Netherworld Heaven, the premier sword cultivator. Not just in the Netherworld Heaven, but across Shenzhou, you were the number one sword cultivator. It was said that you and the Ice Soul Divine Sword were inseparable. It was rumored that bing an immortal wasn''t too difficult for you, with at least a fifty percent chance. Why then did you abandon this sword and even go as far as to take your own life?" Cang Lan Demon Lord inquired.


    Suicide?


    Zhong Shan and Han Jiguang both looked at Jian Ao in surprise. The top sword cultivator of Shenzhoumitted suicide? How absurd!


    Gently, Jian Ao extended his right hand. Cang Lan Demon Lord handed over the Ice Soul Divine Sword.


    As soon as Jian Ao grasped it, the sword emitted a dazzling ten-colored light, as if rejoicing at reuniting with its old master.


    Cang Lan Demon Lord''s eyes widened. Even with his full power, he could only evoke an eight-colored light, yet Jian Ao easily surpassed him, disying two additional colors. This meant Jian Ao''s affinity with the sword was far greater than his own.


    Jian Ao stroked the sword and shook his head, handing it back to Cang Lan.


    "The Ice Soul Divine Sword, aside from the ''Earth, Fire, Wind, Water'' swords of the Eternal Realm, there is no other sword in Shenzhou that canpare. In fact, it rivals any one of the four swords. But it is not my path," Jian Ao shook his head.


    "Not your path?" Cang Lan Demon Lord furrowed his brows in confusion.


    "If one uses this sword for too long, they be dependent on it. For anyone seeking longsting cultivation, one must understand this: oneself must be primary, and objects secondary. No matter how powerful an object is, it is still an object. If oneself is not strong, one will never be truly powerful. In my past life, I relied too much on this sword, causing my path to deviate. I became a ve to the sword, not its master. I was no longer fully myself. Though I could dominate Shenzhou, once I reached the sword''s limits, I hit a dead end from which I could never escape," Jian Ao exined.


    "Your own sword path?" Cang Lan Demon Lord still appeared puzzled.


    "A path where I am the master, not swayed by external objects. But my past self was already corrupted by this sword, unable to change. The only solution was to be reborn, to clear all memories, habits, and characteristics, and to retrain in swordsmanship with a pure and untainted self. Only a sword path that belongs solely to oneself is the strongest sword path," Jian Ao elucidated.


    To change his cultivation path, Jian Aomitted suicide and chose to reincarnate? What if he failed to reincarnate and his soul dispersed? The three men looked at Jian Ao in shock. This man was incredibly formidable and ruthless towards himself.

 Chapter 506: Every Leaf and Twig Can Become a Sword

    <h4>Chapter 506: Every Leaf and Twig Can Be a Sword</h4>


    Upon hearing that Jian Ao had chosen to reincarnate and start anew because of this sword, the three of them looked at Jian Ao in astonishment. It was ruthless��while they were all ustomed to killing, seeing through the endless cycle of life and death, theycked the courage to face suicide so calmly. Moreover, Jian Ao was on the verge of bing an immortal, achieving eternal life. Yet, he chose to give up this opportunity and take his own life?


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword in the hands of the Demon Lord Cann suddenly emitted twelve different colors, exuding waves of hostility as if deeply displeased with Jian Ao.


    "A demonic sword? Bestowing power yet leading people into a dead end?"


    Jian Ao coldly nced at the Ice Soul Divine Sword. Suicide now seemed trivial in retrospect, but in his previous life, he had taken immense risks to reincarnate.


    Dying by suicide didn''t guarantee one''s soul would be a ghost. If that were so, wouldn''t everyone in the world be able to reincarnate? The chance of a soul bing a ghost was only one in a hundred; the rest would dissipate into the energies of the universe.


    Moreover, reincarnation in the underworld wasn''t guaranteed either. Simrly, only one in a hundred souls seeded.


    In other words, the chance of sessful reincarnation was only one in ten thousand.


    On one hand was the path to immortality, reaching the limits of the Ice Soul Divine Sword but making no further progress. On the other hand was reincarnation, with only a one in ten thousand chance of sess.


    Jian Ao resolutely chose reincarnation. What immense courage and conviction this required!


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword resented Jian Ao, but did Jian Ao not also resent the Ice Soul Divine Sword?


    "Hummmmmmm..."


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword trembled lightly, emanating waves of hostility, condensing into endless sword qi in all directions.


    "Jian Ao Tianzhu''s words, this Demon Lord cannot agree. The Ice Soul Divine Sword also refuses. I ask Jian Ao Tianzhu to enlighten us: is it you who is correct, or is it the Ice Soul Divine Sword?" Cann Demon Lord shook his head.


    Clearly, he refused to believe Jian Ao''s radical thoughts, perhaps because the overwhelming power in his grasp, the Ice Soul Divine Sword, made him unwilling to ept Jian Ao''s words.


    If he chose to believe Jian Ao, would that not mean giving up this sword? Giving up? Cann Demon Lord would never give up.


    "Is this what it wants?" Jian Ao looked coldly at the Ice Soul Divine Sword.


    "Let''s see. I want to see how strong the swordsmanship of the former number one sword cultivator of the Netherworld really is," Cann Demon Lord said straightforwardly.


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword in his hand trembled slightly, suddenly radiating ten colors of brilliance, exactly like what happened with Jian Ao before. It was clear that the Ice Soul Divine Sword now more fully acknowledged Cann Demon Lord.


    Seeing this scene, Cann Demon Lord felt a surge of joy in his heart.


    Jian Ao smiled faintly, showing no fear whatsoever. It was as if he wanted to prove to the Ice Soul Divine Sword that his beliefs were indeed correct.


    Ice Soul Divine Sword, the number one divine sword of the Netherworld.


    Jian Ao gently drew a heavy sword from his back.


    Jian Ao (Emperor Realm) vs Cann Demon Lord (Imperial Realm)!


    Zhongshan and Han Jiguang quickly shed back, retreating to a distance.


    Han Jiguang did not attack Zhongshan because he knew Zhongshan was a sage, a terrifying sage. Sages didn''t necessarily have the highest cultivation, but they always left countless hidden cards.


    Like the Emperor of the Yun Dynasty��if you think some emperors are simple, you''re gravely mistaken. An emperor of a dynasty, a person who attained power and fame in one dynasty, there is only that one emperor. Why? Apart from strength and means, it''s also about hiding deep.


    Han Jiguang didn''t want to sh with Zhongshan yet, even though his cultivation was undoubtedly much higher than Zhongshan''s, he chose to remain silent.


    Zhongshan naturally had no intention of fighting Han Jiguang at this moment, even though he was confident of victory. It simply wasn''t necessary.


    Jian Ao and Cann Demon Lord faced each other with swords drawn.


    Cann Demon Lord wielded the Ice Soul Divine Sword, while Jian Ao had wielded a sword in his past life.


    In this scene, it was as if Jian Ao and his former self were battling as two peerless swordsmen across a vast sea.


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword seemed intent on proving Jian Ao wrong. A burst of white aura erupted from its de, filling the entire sky with endless sword qi.


    In the heavens above, the sword qi followed a mysterious trajectory, continuously depicting the supreme way of the sword.


    The sea surged violently, raising waves shaped like swords. It was a disy of unparalleled dominance.


    Ice Soul Divine Sword, the number one divine sword of the Netherworld.


    Across from it, standing coldly on the sea surface, Jian Ao looked at Cann Demon Lord, then at the Ice Soul Divine Sword. It seemed as though his opponent wasn''t Cann Demon Lord, but rather the divine sword itself.


    Jian Ao''s memories from his past life had not yet fully returned, so he wasn''t sure of the extraordinary qualities of the Ice Soul Divine Sword. However, Jian Ao was certain that his path of swordsmanship was absolutely correct��the strongest path of swordsmanship.


    Suddenly, both of them moved almost simultaneously.


    A sword thrust forth, a sh of light streaked across, and a powerful sword qi pierced towards Jian Ao.


    Too fast!


    It was so fast that even Zhongshan couldn''t see clearly. It was impossible��even in the Imperial Realm, such speed was unheard of. Ice Soul Divine Sword? Swift as lightning.


    Jian Ao seemed to have no reaction, almost as if he were stunned, motionless.


    No, he wasn''t motionless��he had evaded. Just as the Ice Soul Divine Sword struck, Jian Ao inexplicably sidestepped two meters, cunningly dodging the attack.


    In a swift motion, he swung his heavy sword, unleashing an overwhelming momentum. Half of the sea''s surface surged, rushing towards Cann Demon Lord in the distance.


    The waters of half the sea��how terrifying a quantity it was! The foremost waters even seemed to manifest countless peerless experts wielding divine swords, charging towards Cann, all formed by water but with unparalleled momentum.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    Cann Demon Lord made his move, instantly dispersing the rushing sea waters beneath him. In the world now, apart from sword qi, there was only boundless sea water.


    Jian Ao moved swiftly, charging straight in.


    Amidst the sea of rushing waters and sword qi, he shed with Cann Demon Lord.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~ Boom~~~~~~~~~~ Boom~~~~~~~~~~"


    The terrifying force caused the sea water beneath Cann Demon Lord''s feet to surge skyward. The waters, once more, rose into the sky as soon as they fell, continuously erupting upwards.


    Powerhouses��these were peerless powerhouses. The vast ocean, before these two battling experts, served merely as decoration.


    Too powerful.


    That ferocious aura��even an ordinary Imperial Realm expert would not dare to confront it head-on. As for those below the Union Realm, entering would mean being shattered into pieces. The sea water became a mere embellishment, and the sea creatures had long been destroyed by the overpowering sword qi.


    Zhongshan stood in the distance, swallowing his saliva as he watched.


    Jian Ao! So strong!


    Such a powerful Jian Ao��could he even be his match?


    In the distance, booming reverberations echoed, creating faint ripples in certain concentrated points of space.


    Zhongshan and Han Jiguang continued to step back, not out of fear of being affected, but rather to avoid interference.


    Jian Ao wielded his heavy sword as if it possessed boundless power. Upon the earth, countless sword thrusts cracked through, channeling the infinite power of thend into Jian Ao''s body.


    Jian Ao was at a disadvantage, but he fought with increasing courage. He never gave up.


    The two battled for an entire day. Han Jiguang had long since furrowed his brow in the distance.


    A day? Imperial Realm? Was Jian Ao truly only at the Imperial Realm? Despite Han Jiguang being in the Emperor Realm, he was a swordsman. Among Emperor Realm peers, he definitely ranked near the top, especially wielding an unparalleled divine sword.


    Under such circumstances, was Jian Ao really at a disadvantage? Was he truly just, as Han Jiguang imed, a youth of lesser origin, merely at the Imperial Realm? If that were true, it would be incredible. Compared to the Imperial Realm, Han Jiguang believed more that Jian Ao was an Emperor Realm powerhouse because many times, Jian Ao''s sword struck upon certain rules.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a mighty roar from Han Jiguang, the two finally separated after a day of battle.


    Defeated? Had Jian Ao lost?


    They stood far apart. Han Jiguang held the Ice Soul Divine Sword, pointing it at Jian Ao as if emphasizing that everything about Jian Ao was wrong.


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword continued to radiate twelve-colored brilliance, still excited. Yet Han Jiguang gripped the divine sword, his heart swirling with turmoil. Imperial Realm? Was this Jian Ao''s swordsmanship? The Lord God said Jian Ao was only at the Imperial Realm, yet with this strength, he could withstand Han Jiguang up to now?


    Too powerful! Jian Ao''s talent was too formidable, his swordsmanship too strong. A heavy sword without a de, artful and powerful, one force subduing ten��without the Ice Soul Divine Sword, he might have been the defeated one.


    Fortunately, he had the Ice Soul Divine Sword. Thinking this, blood flowed from his arm, a wound from their battle.


    Yet Jian Ao seemed to suffer more from a distance. A heavy sword, arge and heavy sword, was now shattered into fragments. It hadpletely dispersed into nothingness.


    As a swordsman, if even the sword was destroyed, what chance at victory remained?


    Jian Ao seemed unable to ept this fact, his eyes closed, standing still above the sea.


    Defeated? No, not defeated!


    Zhongshan could see that Jian Ao''s long hair suddenly fluttered slightly, as if he had suddenly awakened to something. He loosened his grip on the remaining sword handle, letting it fall into the half of the sea.


    A white aura suddenly enveloped Jian Ao''s body. At first, it was scattered, but as time passed, it grew more fierce and sharp, suddenly transforming into an endless and sharp sword qi, merging into Jian Ao''s body.


    Jian Ao''s eyes suddenly opened. In those eyes, two five-zhang-long sword qi spewed forth.


    Sword qi from his eyes? Han Jiguang, watching from afar, frowned slightly, sensing something amiss.


    Suddenly, Jian Ao reached out towards the ground below.


    In a wave of his hand, a distant willow tree swiftly flew towards Jian Ao,nding in front of him.


    In everyone''s confusion, Jian Ao lightly plucked a branch from the willow tree. Just an ordinary branch.


    Tossing the willow tree aside, Jian Ao grasped one end of the branch. With a slight exertion, the branch straightened, pointing directly at Han Jiguang.


    That single branch seemed to transform into an unparalleled divine sword, filling Jian Ao with boundless confidence.


    What''s going on? Everyone stared at Jian Ao.


    "Thank you, Cann Demon Lord. A day of battle has elevated my realm once more. A heavy sword is not heavy, a light sword is not light. Appearance can deceive, but true essence remains eternal. Let us continue," Jian Ao said calmly.


    A heavy sword is not heavy? A light sword is not light. Appearance can deceive, but true essence remains eternal?


    What kind of realm was this?


    "Where is your sword? Do you intend to duel with the Ice Soul Divine Sword using a mere ordinary branch?" Cann Demon Lord asked coldly.


    "Right now, every leaf and twig can be a sword, can be an unparalleled divine sword," Jian Ao replied confidently.

 Chapter 507: Zhong Shan Acquires the Demon Sword

    <h4>Chapter 507: Zhong Shan Acquires the Demon Sword</h4>


    "Now, everything around me, be it grass or wood, can be a sword, an unparalleled divine sword," Jian Ao dered with supreme arrogance. This wasn''t mere bravado; Jian Ao had genuinely reached a profound realm of understanding.


    With no sword in hand, yet a sword in heart, anything and everything could be a weapon!


    The Demon Lord Cann sneered in disbelief. Grass and wood could be swords? Were all the divine swords in the worldparable to a mere willow twig? Nonsense! The Ice Soul Divine Sword in his hand once again radiated a deadly twelve-colored aura.


    Han Jiguang stood in the distance, observing coldly, lost in thought.


    From another corner, Zhong Shan frowned as he watched Jian Ao. The realm Jian Ao spoke of seemed familiar, something he''d heard of in his youth. At that time, it was just a legend, a story. Could such a realm truly exist?


    Around Jian Ao, there was no trace of sword energy. The willow twig in his hand appeared ordinary, yet Jian Ao exuded immense confidence.


    "Hmph!" The Demon Lord Cann let out a cold snort.


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword in his hand thrust towards Jian Ao once more.


    Before the sword even reached him, a powerful and overwhelming sword aura surged across the sea, transforming into a gigantic sword that seemed to pierce the heavens and earth, aiming straight at Jian Ao.


    The surrounding sword energy, wild and rampant, rained down towards Jian Ao, threatening to tear him apart.


    Jian Ao remained unflustered, a faint smile ying on his lips. He lightly tapped the sword aura of the Ice Soul Divine Sword with his willow twig.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The colossal sword aura wavered abruptly, as if on the verge of copse.


    The Demon Lord Cann charged towards Jian Ao, the sword aura growing shorter yet more condensed, filled with a vast and potent sword force, directly targeting the tip of the willow twig.


    The rampant sword energy around them could no longer advance towards Jian Ao.


    "ng~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The tip of the Ice Soul Divine Sword collided with the tip of the willow twig.


    A surging wave of energy burst from the point of contact, sweeping in all directions, causing the ocean below to split and gush to the sides.


    The Demon Lord Cann''s eyes widened in shock.


    Sword intent, a surging sword intent��how could this be? The Demon Lord Cann sensed that the Ice Soul Divine Sword had met a formidable rival, another divine sword not inferior to itself.


    Another divine sword? If he hadn''t seen Jian Ao break off the willow twig earlier, the Demon Lord Cann would have believed it to be an unparalleled divine sword. But it was clearly an ordinary willow twig. If this was a divine sword, then divine swords in the world would be far toomon.


    Sword intent, surging sword intent, the sword intent of the Ice Soul Divine Sword shed violently with Jian Ao''s sword intent. The boundless sword energy exploded with a thunderous roar.


    Despite wielding the Ice Soul Divine Sword, the Demon Lord Cann couldn''t ovee Jian Ao''s willow twig?


    The Demon Lord Cann couldn''t believe it. It was impossible. How could this be?


    "ng!"


    With a slight tremor of his hand, Jian Ao suddenly forced the Ice Soul Divine Sword back.


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword erupted in a ze of twelve-colored light, clearly enraged by its defeat at the hands of a willow twig. It seemed to want to sever the twigpletely.


    But the Demon Lord Cann suddenly halted the Ice Soul Divine Sword.


    "What is this?" The Demon Lord Cann looked at the willow twig in utter disbelief.


    Jian Ao nced at the Demon Lord Cann and, as if offering guidance, said, "A true swordsman values intent over the weapon itself. Have you not realized that your intent is weaker than that of most swordsmen? Your sword intent is merely the intent of the Ice Soul Divine Sword. Without it, would you still be a peerless swordsman?"


    Hearing Jian Ao''s words, the Demon Lord Cann felt as if he had been struck on the head, suddenly finding rity in his mind.


    Yes, he was strong, stronger than most swordsmen, but much of that strength came from the Ice Soul Divine Sword. If a stronger opponent were to destroy the Ice Soul Divine Sword, what would he be left with? Nothing. But Jian Ao, even if his willow twig were destroyed, could simply pick another. Anything could be a sword for him. Sword intent��this was the true pursuit of a swordsman.


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword seemed to sense the Demon Lord Cann''s internal change, quickly stabilizing its twelve-colored glow, bing even more attuned to him than it had been to Jian Ao in his previous life.


    Looking at the Ice Soul Divine Sword in his hand, the Demon Lord Cann fell silent for a moment.


    "Thank you for your guidance, Senior," the Demon Lord Cann said respectfully, bowing deeply to Jian Ao.


    Though Jian Ao was only at the Royal Extreme Realm, his cultivation level meant nothing in this context. Otherwise, how could he, an Emperor Extreme Realm practitioner, not have defeated Jian Ao? A true master deserved respect, and Jian Ao had pointed out his misdirection. This bow was given willingly and wholeheartedly.


    "Hmm, you''ve been using this sword for quite some time, haven''t you?" Jian Ao asked.


    "Five hundred years," the Demon Lord Cann nodded.


    "Five hundred years��neither long nor short. You are still a Demon Lord at the Emperor Extreme Realm. It''s not toote for you to discard it. The sooner you abandon it, the sooner you can rediscover your true path as a swordsman," Jian Ao advised.


    Abandon it soon?


    Though he understood the detriments of the Ice Soul Divine Sword, the Demon Lord Cann couldn''t bring himself to discard it immediately. It was like an addiction��knowing its harm but being unable to let go.


    Seeing the Demon Lord Cann''s hesitation, Jian Ao''s eyes turned cold. "A swordsman''s intent is the foundation, the heart is the base. When a decision must be made, make it decisively. Hesitation leads to chaos."


    The Demon Lord Cann''s eyes reflected determination. Ignoring the Ice Soul Divine Sword''s reluctance, he bowed deeply to Jian Ao once more. "Senior, I have used this sword for five hundred years. It has be an addiction I cannot ovee. Please, take it and keep it safe."


    The Demon Lord Cann offered the Ice Soul Divine Sword with both hands, effectively relinquishing his greatest strength.


    Jian Ao raised an eyebrow, feeling a strange sense of irony. He had intended to offer guidance to the Demon Lord Cann, yet he found himself caught in the situation. Keeping the sword for him? You are addicted? I was even more addicted in my past life. If this sword rekindles my addiction, what then?


    The Demon Lord Cann''s addiction was hard to control, and he was just a Demon Lord. In his previous life, Jian Ao had been a Sovereign; wouldn''t it be even harder for him to control? It was because he couldn''t resist using it that he had chosen to start anew.


    Jian Ao hesitated to ept the sword, looking at the Demon Lord Cann intently.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan and Han Jiguang, realizing the battle was over, quickly approached.


    Seeing the Demon Lord Cann offering his sword, both were surprised.


    Jian Ao, spotting Zhong Shan, had an idea. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Very well."


    Jian Ao took the Ice Soul Divine Sword, and the Demon Lord Cann let out a long sigh of relief, though his gaze still held a trace of reluctance as he looked at the sword in Jian Ao''s hand.


    "Senior, here is my jade token and that of the young demon cultivator from earlier. I offer them to you. I know I am not destined for the legacy of the sacred fire, but I hope you can obtain it," the Demon Lord Cann said, producing two jade tokens.


    This time, Jian Ao epted without hesitation, quickly putting them away and nodding to the Demon Lord Cann.


    Han Jiguang still didn''t fully understand, but seeing the Demon Lord Cann, he refrained from asking.


    The Demon Lord Cann bowed to Jian Ao once more.


    "Friend Han, let''s go," the Demon Lord Cann said.


    Then, the two quickly flew out of the ck clouds, leaving the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain.


    The jade tokens were all gathered��no, there was even an extra one.


    "Zhong Shan, I give this sword to you. Thank you for helping me pass the first trial," Jian Ao said, handing the Ice Soul Divine Sword to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback. "Even without me, you could have passed the trial."


    "The second trial is beyond my control. I will need your help then. As for this demon sword, I feel at ease only if it''s with you," Jian Ao exined.


    "Huh? Why?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Because I believe that if you don''t want to give something to someone, no one can take it from you. Don''t try to give it back to me," Jian Ao said solemnly.


    Zhong Shan was speechless for a moment.


    "How do you know that if I don''t want to give something away, no one else can take it?" Zhong Shan asked, his expression slightly strange.


    "Because I''m the same kind of person," Jian Ao said confidently.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan''s mouth twitched slightly. He nodded in a peculiar manner.


    "Moreover, it''s best if you don''t use this sword. Those who wield this sword find it hard to control and may even be enved by it. In my past life, I reached the Celestial Extreme Realm and was still enved by this sword. It was only after reincarnating and cultivating anew that I escaped its control," Jian Ao said gravely.


    Looking at the sword, Zhong Shan considered not using it. However, he couldn''t help but think that with such a powerful demonic sword, it must contain immense energy. If the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail could consume it, what then?


    Zhong Shan epted the sword with a nod.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s nonchnt attitude, Jian Ao''s expression tightened, as if realizing something. "No, you''re my chosen opponent. You must not be corrupted by this demonic sword. Give it back to me, and I''ll pass it to someone with higher cultivation."


    Jian Ao reached out for the sword.


    Such an item, how could Zhong Shan let go of it? Shaking his head, he said, "I will keep my promise. I won''t give it back to you."


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s refusal, Jian Ao was momentarily stunned, then rendered speechless. It was he who had told Zhong Shan not to give the sword back to him. Karma, it seemed.


    "Then you must never use this sword. It has a seductive power. Be careful!" Jian Ao warned again.


    "Don''t worry!" Zhong Shan replied indifferently.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s indifferent attitude, Jian Ao knew that Zhong Shan hadn''t taken his warning to heart. With a sense of helplessness, Jian Ao said, "Let''s go."


    Zhong Shan''s nonchnce was understandable. What was there to be careful about? When the time came, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail would swallow the sword whole, and everything would be fine. Of course, Jian Ao had no idea about Zhong Shan''s heaven-defying ability to consume the demonic sword. The thought would never ur to him.


    Then, the two quickly flew out of the ck clouds, havingpleted the task with an extra jade token. They had passed the first trial.


    The second trial would take ce six dayster.


    During those six days, Zhong Shan finally experienced the demonic nature of the Ice Soul Divine Sword. The sword had a soul and couldn''t be stored in a spatial bracelet, so he had to carry it on his back. Over the two days, the Ice Soul Divine Sword seemed to exert a magical influence on Zhong Shan, creating an urge to test the sword.


    Surprised by this, Zhong Shan tightened his resolve. His will was exceptionally strong, yet he still felt thispulsion. Imagine how unbearable it would be for someone else.


    Realizing this, Zhong Shan decided not to continue testing his will against the Ice Soul Divine Sword. Instead, he used a shadow clone to carry the sword, while his true body transformed into the shadow of the clone. Let the sword''s seductive power waste itself on a clone that would disappear in an hour.

 Chapter 508: House Raid

    <h4>Chapter 508: House Raid</h4>


    Six days passed in the blink of an eye.


    There were twenty-one groups with a total of twenty-one jade tokens, which should have produced seven groups of victors. However, in the end, only four groups, including Jian Ao''s, passed the trial, with the rest being eliminated.


    Among the demon youths, besides Jian Ao, there was another group led by a mboyant red-haired man who had been lucky enough to seize tokens from other demon youths. The remaining two groups wereprised of the Demon Lords and their followers.


    Now, four groups with eight people stood inside a grand hall outside the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain.


    Each of the eight individuals was clearly an exceptional talent, especially the demon youth who had passed the first trial with only a Royal Extreme Realm cultivation��an impressive feat.


    No one spoke to each other; they simply waited in silence.


    Zhong Shan stood beside Jian Ao, carefully observing the hall.


    The hall seemed ordinary, with nothing particrly special about it. All unrted personnel had been instructed to stay at least ten miles away.


    In the center of the hall was a ck chair with a very high back. The material was unusual, at least Zhong Shan couldn''t identify it.


    As Zhong Shan stared at the ck chair, a figure suddenly appeared on it as if out of thin air. The suddenness and wonder of the appearance indicated the person''s extraordinary cultivation.


    For someone to appear so abruptly without Zhong Shan noticing any trace, there was only one person in the Netherworld Heaven who could achieve this��Nameless Heaven''s Lord, Nangong Sheng!


    Dressed in white, Nangong Sheng had a slightly tall and slender figure. His fair hands rested on the armrests, revealing purple fingernails. Hisplexion was slightly pale, with a red line between his eyebrows that seemed to draw one''s gaze, evoking a feeling of being trapped within. His expression was indifferent as he scanned the crowd.


    "Greetings, Heaven''s Lord!" The four from the Netherworld Heaven bowed simultaneously.


    "Greetings, Nangong Sheng, Heaven''s Lord," Zhong Shan and the other four assistants also bowed out of courtesy.


    Nangong Sheng''s gaze swept across everyone indifferently, but when he saw Zhong Shan, his pupils contracted, a sh of surprise in his eyes. It was as if he had discovered a secret about Zhong Shan or couldn''t fully see through him.


    After a deep look at Zhong Shan, Nangong Sheng shifted his gaze and spoke, "Congrattions on passing the first trial."


    "The me Inheritance consists of two trials. The first trial tests your strength to see if you can bear the inheritance. You have all passed. As for the second trial, there''s no need to struggle as hard," Nangong Sheng exined.


    Everyone listened intently, waiting for the rules of the second trial.


    "The Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain is my domain. Just now, I have cleared all unrted persons from within. Inside, I have ced numerous treasures, all crafted by my hand. You have ten days to enter and find these treasures. The one who finds the most will be the next Heaven''s Lord," Nangong Sheng stated.


    Finding things? Whoever finds the most treasures bes the Heaven''s Lord? Was it all down to luck?


    The crowd found this hard to believe. How could it be so arbitrary?


    Seeing their expressions, Nangong Sheng said calmly, "I know what you''re thinking. However, the Netherworld Heaven has stood for so long not just because of strength. Otherwise, why would the powerful Blissful Pure Land copse?"


    Hearing this, the crowd''s eyebrows raised in surprise.


    "Besides strength, luck is also crucial. Passing the first trial shows you don''tck strength. Now it''s about your luck. A generation of Heaven''s Lord, if like the Reincarnated Buddha, possesses great strength but no luck, the Netherworld Heaven will eventually follow the same fate as Blissful Pure Land. With luck, many dangers can be turned into nothing. That''s why I let each of you choose an assistant. Their luck matters too. If they find treasures and you don''t, their luck bes your luck. Through your luck, I can glimpse the future of the Netherworld Heaven under your hands," Nangong Sheng exined.


    Faced with Nangong Sheng''s reasoning, the crowd remained silent. Although they didn''t necessarily agree, they couldn''t argue with the Heaven''s Lord.


    "Go now. In ten days, I wille find you! I hope you won''t disappoint me!" Nangong Sheng said calmly.


    "Yes!" The crowd responded immediately, turning to leave the grand hall and entering the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain.


    As they departed, Nangong Sheng squinted, his gaze fixed on Zhong Shan beside Jian Ao. There was a trace of peculiarity in his eyes.


    Compared to six days ago, the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain appeared even more ominous. Endless ck clouds shrouded the mountain, making it look increasingly eerie. Above the ck clouds, lightning shed, giving the impression of a world in turmoil.


    Entering the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain, Zhong Shan noticed different colored lightning bolts high in the sky.


    "Jian Ao, what is Nangong Sheng''s cultivation level?" Zhong Shan asked quietly.


    Jian Ao turned to look at Zhong Shan. Everyone knew that Nangong Sheng was at the Celestial Extreme Realm, so why was Zhong Shan asking such a question?


    Seeing Jian Ao''s puzzled expression, Zhong Shan sighed lightly. "Maybe I''m overthinking it."


    The two entered the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain, officially beginning their search for the treasures left by Nangong Sheng.


    "What''s special about Nangong Sheng''s treasures?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "They all carry his aura, like this," Jian Ao replied, taking out the jade token obtained in the first trial. With a slight force, it emitted a peculiar purple smoke.


    Zhong Shan scanned it with his spiritual sense and memorized the aura.


    "I decree that any treasure you find will belong to you," Jian Ao said with certainty.


    "Very well, I''ll ept your generosity," Zhong Shan replied without hesitation.


    Indeed, if Zhong Shan could help Jian Ao obtain the inheritance, why would Jian Ao care about those ''external objects''?


    "Let''s meet here in two days," Jian Ao said.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The two then quickly separated to cover more ground.


    Finding Nangong Sheng''s treasures in the vast expanse of the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain would undoubtedly be a challenging task. The crowd wasted no time, swiftly flying in all directions with their spiritual senses fully extended.


    The treasures were well-hidden. Despite an entire day of searching with hundreds of shadow clones, Zhong Shan found nothing.


    Hundreds of shadow clones, each searching for an hour��equivalent to several days of effort for an average person��yet they found nothing?


    Sitting in a valley, Zhong Shan pondered. If several days yielded nothing, how could they find anything in the allotted ten days? Did it reallye down to sheer luck?


    On the second day, the shadow clones were deployed again. Suddenly, one of the clones discovered a treasure��a small golden bowl with Nangong Sheng''s aura. It was hidden deep underground in a valley.


    Without the shadow clone''s ability to burrow, how could this have been found?


    Two days passed quickly. Zhong Shan and Jian Ao reunited.


    "Where did you find it?" Jian Ao asked, delighted.


    Zhong Shan described the location, and Jian Ao looked at him oddly. Found a treasure buried a thousand meters underground? It wasn''t just the depth of the hiding ce; it was Zhong Shan''s extraordinary luck. To find something buried deep in a valley amidst endless mountains��his luck was incredible.


    "I knew I wasn''t wrong!" Jian Ao said excitedly as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Huh?"


    "Back then, Chu Jiu examined your bones. ording to your bone structure, you should never have been able to reach the Nascent Soul stage, yet in just a few decades, you''ve reached the Royal Extreme Realm. I guessed then that you must possess extraordinary luck, otherwise, it would be impossible to reach the Royal Extreme Realm so quickly. And I was right��your luck is incredible. This golden bowl is something I might not have found even in a year," Jian Ao said with admiration.


    Zhong Shan looked at Jian Ao quizzically. So Jian Ao brought him here primarily because of his luck?


    Zhong Shan wanted to say that his rapid progress wasn''t just due to luck, but also to his strength and intelligence. However, would Jian Ao believe him if he said that?


    "This method of searching isn''t effective," Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    Jian Ao nodded. If they could find treasures, so could others. If someone else got lucky and found ten or eight treasures, their group would surely lose.


    "What do you suggest?" Jian Ao asked.


    "Two days ago, Nangong Sheng mentioned that this is his domain?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, the Heaven''s Lord lives here in the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain," Jian Ao confirmed.


    "Then let''s raid his home!" Zhong Shan said with a glint of cunning in his eyes.


    "Raid his home?" Jian Ao''s face showed a mix of surprise and curiosity. Only Zhong Shan would dare say something like that.


    "Why not? The treasures with Nangong Sheng''s aura are likely concentrated where he lives. If we go there, we can find as many as we need. Even if we dismantle his house, it''s bound to be a treasure too!" Zhong Shan grew more confident in his idea as he spoke.


    "Disassemble the Heaven''s Lord''s house?" Jian Ao was shocked by Zhong Shan''s audacity. Despite his pride and former status as a Heaven''s Lord, Jian Ao had never dared think of such a thing.


    Nangong Sheng, the current Heaven''s Lord of the Netherworld Heaven, always gave Jian Ao an enigmatic and profound feeling, like a mystery shrouded in fog. Even other Celestial Extreme Realm practitioners never gave Jian Ao such a strong impression.


    To raid Nangong Sheng''s residence?


    "It''s not that simple," Jian Ao said, taking a deep breath to calm himself.


    "Why not?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow. Although he couldn''t fully understand Nangong Sheng, he had never been afraid of anything.


    "I visited the Heaven''s Lord''s residence in the past two days. While I didn''t think about dismantling his house, I did consider entering to take some treasures. However, I found that the Heaven''s Lord had already prepared for this," Jian Ao said with a frown.


    "Prepared?"


    "He set up a powerful illusion array to shield his residence. The Heaven''s Lord is known as the greatest formation master in the Divine Continent. With his array in ce, no one can enter," Jian Ao exined, shaking his head.


    "The greatest formation master in the Divine Continent, Nangong Sheng?" Zhong Shan pondered this, then shook his head. "Regardless, take me to see it."


    Jian Ao looked at Zhong Shan''s determined expression and finally nodded. "Alright, follow me."


    The two quickly moved through the eerie, lightning-filledndscape of the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain, heading towards the Heaven''s Lord''s residence.

 Chapter 509: Immortal Nangong Sheng

    <h4>Chapter 509: Immortal Nangong Sheng</h4>


    Outside the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain, the pce where everyone had gathered before the second trial was now slowly rising into the sky, floating high above. Nangong Sheng sat on his throne, his brows furrowed as he gazed at the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain. He then scanned the entire Netherworld Heaven, as if reminiscing, a trace of reluctance shing in his eyes.


    The me Inheritance was a monumental event in the Netherworld Heaven, deciding the next Heaven''s Lord. Naturally, it attracted almost everyone from the Netherworld Heaven who could traverse the endless mountains, all waiting at the periphery for the final oue.


    Two demon youths, two Demon Lords��the next Heaven''s Lord would be chosen from among them. Spection ran rampant among the crowd.


    Chu Jiu stood among them, clenching his fists, praying for Jian Ao.


    Inside the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain, Zhong Shan, led by Jian Ao, reached the very center of the mountain range, where a towering mountain split the region in two, separating the Yin and Yang domains.


    "It''s here," Jian Ao said, pointing to an enormous ancient tree ahead.


    The giant tree was massive, rooted deeply in the ground, looking like a mountain itself. Oddly, half of the tree was white, and the other half ck, making it appear very peculiar.


    "The Heaven''s Lord''s pceplex is located just in front of this Yin-Yang Tree. However, after setting up his formation, everything about the pce seemed to disappear. Don''t think it was taken away by the Heaven''s Lord��these pces have existed since ancient times and can''t be moved. If they leave this ce, the entire Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain would copse. The disappearance is due to the formation," Jian Ao exined.


    Looking at the vast za ahead, Zhong Shan grew serious. He could see the grand formation before him, something only possible due to the special nature of his shadow body, which was immune to all formations and illusions.


    Zhong Shan observed a massive dome-like structure covering the area, with alternating ck and white rings flowing from the top to the bottom.


    "Let''s go inside," Zhong Shan said.


    "Inside?" Jian Ao asked, surprised.


    This was an empty area they had already walked through. There was nothing there. Nangong Sheng, known as the greatest formation master in the Divine Continent, didn''t earn that title for nothing. Even Jian Ao couldn''t discern the slightest clue about the formation. But to go inside? How? They had already explored thoroughly before.


    Yet, Zhong Shan was resolute. He grabbed Jian Ao''s hand and stepped forward.


    As they reached the edge of the formation, Zhong Shan''s body trembled slightly.


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhong Shan vanished into thin air. Jian Ao found himself stopped at the boundary, unable to enter.


    Gone? Zhong Shan was gone?


    Jian Ao had seen Zhong Shan''s body disappear right before his eyes. Entered the formation? He felt no great excitement but rather a heavy solemnity. How did Zhong Shan enter the formation? Even Nangong Sheng''s formation couldn''t stop him?


    Jian Ao''s initial solemnity turned into a surge of excitement. This was indeed the rival he had been seeking.


    On the third day outside the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain, Nangong Sheng sat on his throne, watching the mountain with a calm expression. Suddenly, his eyes narrowed as he looked into the distance.


    "How could this be? Someone has broken through the Yin-Yang Reincarnation Array?" Nangong Sheng muttered, filled with confusion.


    In a sh, Nangong Sheng disappeared from his throne. At the same time, the storm clouds above the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain grew even more violent, as if the heavens themselves were enraged.


    The Yin-Yang Reincarnation Array? Unless one was at the Celestial Extreme Realm, it was impossible to even see it. That was why Nangong Sheng had confidently arranged thepetition location within the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain. But how had someone broken through?


    Who could it be?


    Nangong Sheng''s expression grew increasingly serious. As he rushed towards the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain, a name shed through his mind��Zhong Shan. Could it be that Zhong Shan, the person he had never been able to see through?


    As Zhong Shan stepped into the grand formation, he immediately knew that only he could enter; bringing someone else inside was impossible.


    Before himy a vastplex of pces, with a gigantic blood-red pce at the center. The que above it bore three imposing characters:


    <strong>Blood God Pce!</strong>


    Netherworld Heaven, Blood God Pce?


    Zhong Shan swiftly entered the Blood God Pce.


    Inside the pce, it felt like an ancient sacred hall, exuding a powerful aura. However, it was not overwhelming for Zhong Shan. The hall was filled with numerous decorations, and at the far north was a blood-red throne, clearly where Nangong Sheng sat. Behind the throne stood a ten-foot-tall screen.


    On the screen was a diagram of a Taiji Yin-Yang fish. The two fish, one ck and one white, rotated slowly, exuding a gentle light, their rotation following a seemingly rhythmic pattern.


    <strong>Taiji Diagram!</strong>


    Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up with joy. Without hesitation, he rushed towards the Taiji Diagram.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Sensing the approach of someone greedy, the Yin-Yang fish spun, releasing a burst of green light that sent Zhong Shan flying backward.


    "What a treasure!" Zhong Shan eximed, not angry but delighted.


    Outside, Jian Ao waited patiently. Suddenly, a figure in white robes appeared beside him.


    Nangong Sheng! Nangong Sheng had not initially believed someone could breach his formation, but the response from the array was unmistakable, prompting him to investigate. Upon arrival, he gave Jian Ao a brief nce before looking inward.


    Indeed, someone had entered. How was this possible? The Yin-Yang Reincarnation Array showed no signs of damage, so how had they gotten in?


    "Greetings, Heaven''s Lord," Jian Ao said politely.


    "How did he get in?" Nangong Sheng asked, incredulous.


    The Yin-Yang Reincarnation Array had no clear entry or exit routes. It was an illusion array, aplexbination of derivative, battle, and static arrays, painstakingly crafted by Nangong Sheng. It was like another world, isting everything unless a powerful entity could see and break it. This array, while not Nangong Sheng''s strongest, was one of his proudest creations, imperceptible to anyone below the Celestial Extreme Realm. Yet, Zhong Shan had entered, as if delivering a harsh p to Nangong Sheng''s pride.


    "He just walked in," Jian Ao answered truthfully.


    Nangong Sheng was speechless. Just walked in?


    With a wave of his hand, Nangong Sheng dismissed the ''proud'' array, just in time to see Zhong Shan being thrown back by the Taiji Diagram''s green light.


    As Zhong Shan felt the array outside disappear, he stopped and turned to look.


    Nangong Sheng?


    "Greetings, Heaven''s Lord of the Netherworld," Zhong Shan said.


    Nangong Sheng stared intensely at Zhong Shan.


    "How did you get in?" Nangong Sheng demanded, his voice sharp with disbelief.


    Zhong Shan remained calm. "Heaven''s Lord, I have my ways. Your formation, impressive as it is, could not keep me out."


    Nangong Sheng''s eyes narrowed. "You''ve shown extraordinary abilities, Zhong Shan. But entering my domain uninvited, do you know the consequences?"


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly. "Heaven''s Lord, I mean no disrespect. I merely seek the treasures you have hidden, as per the rules of thepetition."


    Nangong Sheng''s face softened slightly, though his eyes remained wary. "Very well. You''ve proven resourceful. Let''s see how far your luck and skill take you."


    Turning his gaze back to the Taiji Diagram, Zhong Shan''s eyes gleamed with determination. This treasure was not going to escape his grasp.


    "What exactly are you?" Nangong Sheng asked solemnly.


    "Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan replied truthfully.


    Nangong Sheng was speechless for a moment. He knew Zhong Shan''s name; that wasn''t what he meant.


    "Why is your constitution so vague? Even the Yin-Yang Reincarnation Array, which even those at the Celestial Extreme Realm cannot easily enter, could not stop you. How did you do it?" Nangong Sheng pressed further.


    Vague? Zhong Shan felt a pang of tension in his heart.


    "It''s a result of a cultivation technique I practice," Zhong Shan exined.


    Nangong Sheng scrutinized Zhong Shan, clearly not entirely convinced. His gaze suggested he wanted to study Zhong Shan more thoroughly.


    Seeing Nangong Sheng''s intent, Zhong Shan knew this was a precarious situation. He quickly changed the subject, "Does this mean we''ve passed the second trial?"


    With a peculiar smile, Nangong Sheng shook his head. "Don''t worry. Since you are a friend of the next Heaven''s Lord, I won''t make things difficult for you."


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan felt a bit relieved. He wasn''t underestimating Nangong Sheng, but caution was always necessary. It seemed rushing in earlier was a bit reckless. He hadn''t expected Nangong Sheng to be so proficient in formations that even his subtle entrance was noticed.


    "Heaven''s Lord, is it decided?" Jian Ao asked.


    Nangong Sheng had referred to Zhong Shan as a friend of the next Heaven''s Lord, which seemed to confirm Jian Ao''s position.


    Nangong Sheng smiled and nodded. The treasures within the formation were far more than what he had ced. Although there were still a few days left, the oue was clear.


    "Thank you, Heaven''s Lord!" Jian Ao said immediately.


    "You were a Heaven''s Lord in your past life, and now you are simply resuming your role. No need to thank me," Nangong Sheng shook his head.


    "Very well," Jian Ao nodded.


    "In ten days, I will formally pass the inheritance to you. From then on, you will be Heaven''s Lord Jian Ao," Nangong Sheng dered.


    Jian Ao, however, frowned.


    "Heaven''s Lord Jian Ao? Normally, there is a ten-year period between the inheritance and the assumption of the title. Why is this so urgent?" Jian Ao asked with a frown.


    Suddenly, Jian Ao recalled what Zhong Shan had said when they entered the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain.


    "Jian Ao, what is Nangong Sheng''s cultivation level?" "Maybe I''m overthinking it."


    Nangong Sheng''s cultivation level was well-known, so why had Zhong Shan been uncertain? Could it be...? Moreover, the thunder outside was incessant, with multicolored lightning bolts raging violently, as if a great evily below.


    Jian Ao looked at Nangong Sheng in surprise. "Have you ascended to immortality?"


    Nangong Sheng looked at Jian Ao, then at Zhong Shan, and finally nodded. "Yes, my time here is short. The world''s rejection of me is growing stronger, and I must leave this realm soon. That is why the inheritance is so urgent."


    "Congrattions!" Jian Ao said.


    "Congrattions!" Zhong Shan echoed.


    Nangong Sheng nodded and then spoke with a solemn expression. "My ascension is poorly timed. Netherworld Heaven faces great cmity, and it might be destroyed. I hope you can lead Netherworld Heaven through this crisis."


    "Great cmity?" Jian Ao raised an eyebrow.


    With Nangong Sheng''s departure, Netherworld Heaven wouldck a Celestial Extreme Realm master. However, this had happened before. There had been many times when the sectcked a top-tier master, yet Netherworld Heaven had never been destroyed. Its foundation was deep and strong, and even Celestial Extreme Realm practitioners might not gain the upper hand easily.


    "Yes. The ancient divine abilities created the world, splitting numerous strands of primordial purple energy, each obtained by a Celestial Extreme Realm practitioner. Though each received only a sliver, this energy will significantly enhance their strength. Even ordinary immortals may not be their match. If I could stay, it wouldn''t be an issue. But the world no longer tolerates my presence. From now on, it''s up to you," Nangong Sheng said with a touch of regret.

 Chapter 510: The Gate Between Worlds

    <h4>Chapter 510: The Gate Between Worlds</h4>


    "Hongmeng Purple Qi, is it really that powerful?" Jian Ao frowned.


    "You haven''t fully recovered your past life''s memories, so you don''t understand. The energy contained within Hongmeng Purple Qi might not be vast, but it holds the essence of creation. Even in the Great Thousand Worlds, it''s an invaluable treasure," Nangong Sheng exined.


    Zhong Shan nodded. The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had consumed a wisp of it, significantly boosting his cultivation. The essence of creation? Nangong Sheng mentioned that refining the Hongmeng Purple Qi would elevate those at the Celestial Extreme Realm to the level of immortals. Immortals represented a great divide. To beparable to immortals? The Hongmeng Purple Qi must be incredibly high-level!


    "Just now, I saw you rushing towards the Taiji Diagram. Do you want it?" Nangong Sheng asked with a smile.


    "Taiji Diagram, one of the top ten ancient treasures. Naturally, I desire it," Zhong Shan admitted without hesitation.


    "Then take it," Nangong Sheng said with a smile.


    "Give it to me?" Zhong Shan was skeptical.


    Why would Nangong Sheng suddenly give him the Taiji Diagram? It didn''t make sense. ording to the Mud Buddha, the Taiji Diagram was one of the supreme treasures of the Netherworld Heaven. Why give it to him?


    Seeing Nangong Sheng''s calm smile, Zhong Shan had a realization.


    "Thank you very much!" Zhong Shan immediately nodded.


    With a flip of his hand, Nangong Sheng summoned the Taiji Diagram screen to Zhong Shan, making it no longer repel him.


    Zhong Shan grabbed the Taiji Diagram, finding it couldn''t be stored in his storage bracelet.


    If even the Ice Soul Divine Sword couldn''t be stored, it was no surprise the Taiji Diagram couldn''t either. Zhong Shan rolled it up, wrapped it in cloth, and slung it over his back.


    "Will you stay for Jian Ao''s inheritance ceremony?" Nangong Sheng asked with a smile.


    "No, I just remembered something urgent at home. Since Jian Ao has obtained the me Inheritance, I''ve fulfilled my duty. Farewell!" Zhong Shan said.


    Jian Ao looked at Zhong Shan, a hint of guilt in his eyes, but he nodded nheless.


    "Safe travels!" Nangong Sheng nodded.


    With a flicker, Zhong Shan sped out of the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain.


    "Heaven''s Lord, what you''ve done..." Jian Ao looked at Nangong Sheng with a hint of reproach in his eyes.


    "One willing to give, one willing to take. Zhong Shan voluntarily took the Taiji Diagram, so he can''t me me. Choosing Zhong Shan to divert disaster was a necessity. The Netherworld Heaven cannot fall in my generation," Nangong Sheng said, shaking his head.


    Disaster diversion! Zhong Shan understood Nangong Sheng''s meaning. The Netherworld Heaven had five supreme treasures, including the Ice Soul Divine Sword and the Taiji Diagram. With both now in Zhong Shan''s possession, it diverted attention from the Netherworld Heaven, reducing its disaster risk but bringing trouble to Zhong Shan.


    Those envious of the treasures would now focus on Zhong Shan.


    However, since Zhong Shan voluntarily took the Taiji Diagram, he couldn''t me Nangong Sheng. Of course, Zhong Shan wouldn''t be too grateful to Nangong Sheng either because he knew it wouldn''t be long before Nangong Sheng announced the Taiji Diagram''s whereabouts to the world.


    Zhong Shan sped out of the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain, disappearing quickly. He retrieved the Ice Soul Divine Sword from his previous hiding ce and used his burrowing ability to escape.


    He moved swiftly towards the entrance of the Netherworld Heaven.


    As he approached the entrance, intending to leave before the Taiji Diagram''s whereabouts were exposed, Nangong Sheng''s voice rang out.


    "Hear me, people of the Netherworld Heaven! From this moment, the demon youth Jian Ao is the next Heaven''s Lord and the bearer of the me Inheritance!"


    Nangong Sheng''s voice echoed throughout the Netherworld Heaven.


    Outside the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain, Chu Jiu and the demon youths were ecstatic. The next Heaven''s Lord, the one they followed, Jian Ao, was indeed the chosen one. It was a moment of great joy for them.


    With the announcement of the new Heaven''s Lord, the people of Netherworld Heaven immediately bowed respectfully towards the Yin-Yang Boundary Mountain.


    "Congrattions, Young Heaven''s Lord!"


    "Congrattions, Young Heaven''s Lord!"


    The voices of congrattions echoed endlessly.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan had already left the Netherworld Heaven and entered the Divine Continent. Transforming into a shadow, he shed across the endlessnd, rapidly heading towards Sirius Ind.


    On the tenth day after Zhong Shan left the Netherworld Heaven, Nangong Sheng made a significant change, creating a sensation throughout the world.


    He officially passed the inheritance to Jian Ao, making him the new Heaven''s Lord of the Netherworld Heaven.


    From Young Heaven''s Lord to Heaven''s Lord, the eptance of the celestial position was supposed to take ten years. Why was it so urgent?


    Then, a second piece of news spread: Nangong Sheng had ascended to immortality.


    Ascended to immortality?


    Another immortal was born, achieving eternal life?


    In people''s hearts, another legend was created. Nangong Sheng, an immortal? An immortal ascending?


    So soon after the creation of the world by the ancient divine powers, another person had be an immortal? The Divine Continent had been experiencing one major event after another in recent years, with countless sects sending their congrattions.


    No wonder the new Heaven''s Lord was announced so urgently. People suddenly understood.


    Another piece of news spread quickly: Zhong Shan, who had participated in the me Inheritance with Jian Ao, had obtained two of the Netherworld Heaven''s greatest treasures.


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword and the Taiji Diagram!


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s name resounded throughout the Divine Continent again.


    After the fall of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, along with the silence of its courtiers and even the temporary quiescence of the four great princes'' dynasties, Zhong Shan had reemerged in the public eye.


    The Taiji Diagram? The Ice Soul Divine Sword?


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword might be considered slightly less impressive, but the Taiji Diagram was incredibly famous.


    One of the top ten ancient treasures,parable to the Heaven-Opening Axe of the ancient divine powers and the Immortal-ying Flying de of the Divine Crow Daojun, had been obtained by Zhong Shan?


    Many people began to take an interest in Zhong Shan, including some absolute powerhouses of the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    As the news spread across thend, Zhong Shan''s shadow body had already delivered the items to Sirius Ind and returned to the chaotic regions to maintain his presence there.


    At the front of the Longevity Hall on Sirius Ind.


    "Mud Buddha, here is the Taiji Diagram you requested!" Zhong Shan''s main body said generously.


    The Taiji Diagram, one of the top ten ancient treasures of the Divine Continent, a treasure that would make countless people covet, was casually handed over to Mud Buddha by Zhong Shan as if it were a mere spirit stone.


    Mud Buddha took the Taiji Diagram, a content smile appearing on his face as he bowed slightly to Zhong Shan.


    "Your Majesty truly possesses great fortune. To have obtained such a treasure is admirable," Mud Buddha said respectfully.


    "Nangong Sheng gave it to me. Besides, it won''t be long before the entire Divine Continent is buzzing with this news," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head with a wry smile.


    "It''s only natural for people to be envious of Your Majesty for acquiring the Taiji Diagram. However, the utility of the Taiji Diagram means Your Majesty is not at a disadvantage. Once I gather some more items, I''ll show Your Majesty the true value of the Taiji Diagram! It will surely bring unexpected rewards," Mud Buddha said with a smile.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan responded with interest.


    "The top ten ancient treasures are not just incredibly powerful; they have infinite wonders. Especially the Taiji Diagram, its miraculous aspects are likely unknown even to the current Heaven''s Lord of the Netherworld Heaven. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have given it to Your Majesty so easily," Mud Buddha exined with a smile.


    "Oh? Even the Netherworld Heaven''s Lord doesn''t know its mystical abilities?" Zhong Shan was genuinely surprised this time.


    Mud Buddha''s im was indeed bold.


    "Well, they certainly knew in the past, but over time, it might have been forgotten. This Taiji Diagram is not like those newly crafted ones. It was created by the first generation Heaven''s Lord of the Netherworld Heaven and has grown into a spiritual treasure over hundreds of thousands of years. With its yin-yang attributes, it''s perfect as the core for a grand formation I know of," Mud Buddha exined with a smile.


    "As the core for a grand formation? What kind of grand formation?" Zhong Shan asked.


    The Taiji Diagram, one of the top ten ancient treasures, having grown over hundreds of thousands of years, being used just as a formation core? What kind of formation could be so powerful?


    "It can connect the realms of Yin and Yang," Mud Buddha said.


    "Connect? Connect the realms of Yin and Yang?" Zhong Shan''s eyes widened, nearly shouting out loud.


    This was incredibly powerful! Even those at the Celestial Extreme Realm couldn''t enter the underworld. Could Mud Buddha really open a gate between the two realms and enter the underworld?


    "This is only based on ancestral records. Whether it works or not is still uncertain, and the remaining materials are very hard to find," Mud Buddha said, shaking his head.


    "Set up the formation. I will find whatever materials you need!" Zhong Shan said with determination.


    Connecting the realms of Yin and Yang, entering the underworld? It wasn''t just an extraordinary feat; if Dazhen Dynasty could enter the underworld, the resources they could obtain would surpass those of any other dynasty in the world.


    Zhong Shan''s ten-year n hade to fruition.


    In the Divine Continent, in the chaotic region, within the pce of Guangling City.


    Zhong Shan sat at the head of the hall, looking at the sixmanders of the Dazhen Dynasty.


    First Corps Commander: Lin Xiao! Second Corps Commander: Wei Yinn! Third Corps Commander: Yi Yan! Fourth Corps Commander: Mr. Corpse! Fifth Corps Commander: Shui Wuhen! Sixth Corps Commander: Shui Jing!


    "Your Majesty, everything is ready! We await yourmand!" Wei Yinn said, slightly excited.


    "Issue the deration of war. Tomorrow we will pledge and march!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" themanders responded immediately.


    Issuing a deration of war rather thanunching a surprise attack wasn''t arrogance on Zhong Shan''s part. It was to gain the luck of the eight dynasties. Nearly a hundred dynasties'' worth of luck.


    At the same time, in a vast area north of the chaotic region, a kingdom was rapidly advancing to be an empire.


    The Grand Light Empire! Emperor Han Jiguang, formerly the ruler of the Grand Light Dynasty.


    "Father, for a dynasty with our foundation, advancing to an empire was not difficult. Our army is in high spirits. Why not take advantage of this momentum to conquer the chaotic region to the south and directly advance to an empire?" the First Prince said eagerly.


    "Indeed, Father. So far, the Ice Army has not even been deployed. Our empire has not exerted its full strength. Conquering the eight great dynasties will surely elevate us to an empire. Father, give the order!" the Second Prince said excitedly.

 Chapter 511: The Era of the Dazhen Dynasty

    <h4>Chapter 511: The Era of the Dazhen Dynasty</h4>


    Han Jiguang pondered for a moment.


    "Father, I am willing to lead the army to pacify the chaotic region," the Second Prince suddenly offered.


    "What do you all think?" Han Jiguang asked his ministers.


    "Your Majesty, I support the princes'' proposal. Although the Grand Light Empire was destroyed, our core strength remains intact. Now that we have advanced to an imperial dynasty, we only need to consolidate our current territory, which will take about two years. If the prince leads the army to the chaotic region now, by the time the consolidation isplete, the Grand Light Imperial Dynasty will be ready tounch a full-scale attack on the chaotic region and take it in one decisive strike," one minister advised.


    "I agree!"


    "So do I!"


    All the ministers voiced their support, advocating for an attack on the chaotic region. After all, with the strength of an imperial dynasty, defeating a kingdom should not be difficult.


    "Your Majesty, there is another advantage to attacking the chaotic region now," the minister added.


    "Oh?" Han Jiguang asked, intrigued.


    "Currently, few people know that the Grand Light Imperial Dynasty is the sessor of the Grand Light Empire. The eight dynasties in the chaotic region won''t be concerned. However, given time, they might realize it. If we attackter, and they form an alliance, even if we conquer the chaotic region, we would be severely weakened. So, it''s best to attack now," the minister exined.


    Han Jiguang nodded in agreement.


    "Han Wei, step forward!" Han Jiguangmanded.


    "I am here!" the Second Prince responded eagerly.


    "I appoint you as the Grand Marshal of the Southern Campaign, leading three million troops from the left three routes of the Grand Light Imperial Dynasty to conquer the chaotic region!" Han Jiguang dered.


    "Yes!" Han Wei shouted excitedly.


    The Ice Soul Divine Sword obtained from the Netherworld Heaven had been consumed by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail years ago. The residual energy had permeated Zhong Shan''s body, allowing his cultivation to break through to the thirdyer of the Royal Extreme Realm. Although the progress wasn''t significant, the energy required at higher levels was immense. Achieving a breakthrough with just one sword was more than satisfactory for Zhong Shan.


    In the chaotic region, Zhong Shan''s shadow body sat cross-legged in the main hall of Guangling City, where the army was assembled. The six corpsmanders waited outside the hall.


    While the shadow body sat, consolidating the cultivation level achieved by the main body, an extraordinary transformation urred due to the shadow body''s cultivation technique, the Ten Thousand Shadows Celestial Scripture.


    The Ten Thousand Shadows Celestial Scripture had broken through to the ninthyer, doubling the number of shadow clones Zhong Shan could create. This was the first notable change. The second change, however, was a rare transformation mentioned in the scripture��urring only once in a million practitioners who reached the ninthyer.


    The transformation happened in the eyes. Zhong Shan felt a cool energy in his pupils, although he couldn''t activate it yet. This cool energy signified the beginning of the transformation. Once it matured, it would grant the shadow body an incredibly powerful ability.


    The Eyes of Reincarnation!


    The name of this transformation was the Eyes of Reincarnation.


    The Eyes of Reincarnation? The Ten Thousand Shadows Celestial Scripture only briefly mentioned this, indicating that Zhong Shan would have to discover its powers on his own. The name suggested immense power. Among all the techniques Zhong Shan had encountered in the Divine Continent, none had involved reincarnation.


    The Ten Thousand Shadows Celestial Scripture and the Red Luan Celestial Scripture are both twelveyer cultivation techniques.


    The Ten Thousand Shadows Celestial Scripture advanced rapidly due to the unique constitution of the shadow body. As for the Red Luan Celestial Scripture, Zhong Shan progressed through it steadily.


    The Red Luan Celestial Scripture had just reached the sixthyer, and its formidable abilities might even make those at the Celestial Extreme Realm envious. Zhong Shan was still unsure of the powers the remaining sixyers would unlock.


    He pondered the significance of these "Celestial Scriptures," as no other cultivation techniques in the Divine Continent were named so. What deeper meaning did they hold? Moreover, why had Mud Buddha once wanted to destroy the Ten Thousand Shadows Celestial Scripture? Was it merely to fulfill an ancestral promise?


    Zhong Shan''s suspicions deepened, but these were things he had to discover on his own. He could not ask anyone, no matter how close they were, just as he couldn''t mention the red bead that had apanied him through his journey.


    Feeling the energy within his shadow clones, Zhong Shan stood up and walked to the grand hall''s entrance. With a wave of his hand, the doors swung open.


    "ng~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    As the doors opened, a deafening roar of voices surged in from outside.


    "Long live our Emperor, long live, long live!"


    "Long live our Emperor, long live, long live!"


    The sound was like a tidal wave, filling Guangling City with the soldiers'' cries of loyalty.


    The pce where Zhong Shan stood was slightly elevated, and below, on the tform, stood the sixmanders of the Dazhen Dynasty.


    Farther away, elite soldiers carried sixrge gs.


    Lin, Wei, Yi, Corpse, Shui, and Shui!


    The six grand banners were held by various individuals.


    Lin, Wei, Yi, and Shui were rtively normal, but the banner for Mr. Corpse was held by a group of skeletons, with a golden skeleton raising the massive banner, looking both eerie and bizarre.


    "The Dazhen Dynasty now embarks on its campaign to conquer the world. The six corps shall fully capture the chaotic regions, expanding the territory of the Dazhen Dynasty!" Zhong Shan proimed.


    "Yes!" the sixmanders responded in unison.


    Among them, Wei Yinn looked at Zhong Shan with the most admiration. Last night, Zhong Shan had summoned her privately and given her a hundred immortal beans.


    A hundred Royal Extreme Realm experts. Although the uing battle wouldn''t be particrly dangerous, it was clear that her great-uncle cared deeply for her.


    Yinn clenched her fists, determined not to disappoint her great-uncle. This battle would be a decisive victory. She looked at Zhong Shan with resolve and a touch of softness in her eyes.


    Apart from Yinn, Zhong Shan had also summoned Lin Xiao and Yi Yan privately.


    Lin Xiao and Yi Yan were in charge of the nks on either side of Yinn''s forces. Zhong Shan had given them strict instructions to protect Yinn on the battlefield. They understood and nodded.


    Zhong Shan had always been very protective of Yinn, pampering her from childhood. Even when he allowed her to take charge independently, he secretly dispatched guards to follow her.


    Ba''er once said that Yinn was Zhong Shan''s lifeblood, and it wasn''t an exaggeration. Yinn resembled Zhong Shan''s first wife, Kui''er, whom he loved deeply. Thus, he cherished Yinn, Kui''er''s grandniece, immensely. Whatever he couldn''t give Kui''er, he tried to provide for Yinn. He would find and give her anything she desired.


    Yinn wanted to lead troops, so Zhong Shan fulfilled her wish, providing her with the strongest battle formation, the "Eight Gates Golden Lock." She wanted to go to war, and Zhong Shan supported her, having the twomanders assist her strategically. He also gave her the immortal beans for creating soldiers and sent elite shadow guards for protection. It was aprehensive safeguard.


    "There shouldn''t be any problems," Zhong Shan thought to himself, looking towards Yinn.


    "Move out!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Countless soldiers roared, their voices shaking the heavens.


    The era of the Dazhen Dynasty had arrived!


    With this battle, Zhong Shan aimed to establish the Dazhen Dynasty''s position on the Divine Continent. He wanted the name of Dazhen Dynasty to resound throughout the world. Zhong Shan had returned!


    The six corpsmanders led their troops out.


    Lin Xiao led 200,000 troops to the northwest.Wei Yinn led 200,000 troops to the north.Yi Yan led 200,000 troops to the northeast.Mr. Corpse led twenty skeleton soldiers to the south.Shui Wuhen led 200,000 troops to the east.Shui Jing led 200,000 troops to the west.


    From Guangling City, they marched in all directions. Of course, these were general directions, and specifics would need to adjust continuously during the war.


    As therge army set out, the chaotic region received two derations of war.


    The first came from a power to the north of the chaotic region called the Grand Light Imperial Dynasty. Only the northernmost dynasty received this deration first.


    The Emperor of the northernmost Supreme Imperial Dynasty sneered coldly at the deration. Did outsiders dare to encroach on the chaotic region?


    The chaotic region''s eight dynasties were not to be trifled with. They were forged through continuous warfare, their soldiers incredibly fierce. Any one of the chaotic region''s dynasties could match two or three outside dynasties.


    An outside dynasty attempting to invade the chaotic region? History had seen many such attempts, but all had failed. The Supreme Imperial Dynasty''s emperor dismissed it as a joke and only sent scouts to investigate.


    Then came an even more shocking revtion.


    The very center of the chaotic region had been upied by a new dynasty? The eight dynasties had never touched the center for fear of bing amon target, but now a new dynasty had taken root there? And apparently, it had been there for many years?


    This news enraged the royal families of the eight dynasties. This new dynasty, the Dazhen Dynasty, dared to provoke not just the eight dynasties but nearly a hundred kingdoms?


    What audacity! What a joke!


    Did the chaotic region be a cake that anyone could take a bite of?


    One versus eight? And against such fierce dynasties? Was the Dazhen Emperor out of his mind?


    Yet, the daily reports began to make the emperors take this more seriously.


    It seemed that the Dazhen Dynasty had simultaneously issued derations of war across the chaotic region. No matter how far the scouts traveled, the derations were delivered at the same time.


    It became apparent that the Dazhen Emperor had long prepared for this.


    The chaotic region was entering a period of turmoil.


    "The Dazhen Dynasty is attacking all eight dynasties and numerous kingdoms simultaneously and has been lurking for over ten years. This Dazhen Dynasty is no ordinary force. Gather information on the Dazhen Dynasty immediately, including details on itsmanders!" ordered one emperor.


    This wasn''t the only emperor reacting this way. The deration had caused a huge stir, prompting all emperors to quickly issue simr orders.

 Chapter 512: The Army of the Undead

    <h4>Chapter 512: The Army of the Undead</h4>


    The sixmanders of the army were all elites of the highest order. In ten years, they had aplished many feats. At the very least, the surrounding dynasties had been subdued by their might.


    When Lin Xiao''s forces reached the first city in the northwest, the city gates were wide open, weing his army. As they marched forward, even the emperor bowed and became a subject.


    Yi Yan, a master strategist, saw further than most couldprehend. His army advanced steadily, with cities that had already been subdued opening their gates willingly. Those that resisted were attacked using the forces from the conquered cities. The troops Yi Yan led rarely had to fight, moving as if they were merely inspecting the cities.


    Mr. Shuijing was simr. Like Yi Yan, he wielded a feather fan, and with a wave, enemy defenses crumbled to dust. They might not have been supreme warriors, but their cunning intellect was unparalleled.


    Shui Wuhen''s strategies were gradually developed by Zhong Shan and his men. Though not as monstrously brilliant as Yi Yan, Shuijing, or Lin Xiao, Shui Wuhen''s ns were wless and methodical. True generals built their foundations on solid tactics, and Shui Wuhen had this potential.


    Zhong Shan was most concerned with Ying Lan, whose intelligence was formidable. After subduing the surrounding dynasties, she began to set up the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation.


    A formation of two hundred thousand men, how powerful would that be? It covered the sky, and the sands howled as if a desert was devouring everything in its path. The city walls were high, but the sandstorm was higher, surging into the city and overwhelming its defenders.


    The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, one of the top formations in the Divine Continent.


    Then there was Mr. Shi, whose methods were even more eerie. Twenty skeletons carriedrge banners, and fifty zombies bore a pitch-ck pce. Mr. Shi sat cross-legged inside the pce. Upon reaching the enemy''s city, he captured a junior officer from the opposing forces.


    He took out a small bottle and poured the ck liquid inside it into the officer''s mouth before releasing him back. The officer, confused, returned to his camp. That night, Mr. Shi took out a bell and gently shook it.


    "Ding-ling-ling!"


    A series of sounds echoed, and a horrifying event urred in the enemy camp. The junior officer''s eyes turned blood-red, and he lost his sanity, biting anyone he encountered in a frenzy. The general tried to stop him but found that the crazed officer''s strength had been halved. His face turned a ghastly pale with dark circles under his eyes, resembling a decaying corpse.


    The officer felt no pain, even when shed. He only wanted to bite, bite, bite.


    "Kill him!" the general ordered.


    "Boom!" The officer''s head was blown off, and he fell to the ground.


    "What is happening?" the general demanded, frowning.


    "Roar~~~~~~!" A terrifying roar echoed from beside the general.


    He tried to stop it, but it was toote. Another person, bitten by the officer earlier, began to bite the general''s neck. Anyone bitten by the officer turned into a frenzied attacker, biting and spreading the madness.


    Bite after bite, the infection spread rapidly. That night, the entire camp was filled with screams of horror.


    By midnight, many soldiers, gripped by terror, fled the camp. The entire camp had turned into a hellish nightmare. Anyone bitten turned into a zombie; it was horrifying. Even a single bite, a drop of saliva or poison, was enough to turn someone into one of the undead.


    Zombies!


    Mr. Shi was creating zombies!


    The night was filled with screams, and by morning, nearly everyone in the camp was dead, transformed into zombies. Mr. Shi shook his bell, and the zombies emerged from the camp, surrounding the skeletons and zombies, protecting Mr. Shi.


    The zombie army, with their drooping arms and lifeless eyes, moved forward under Mr. Shi''s control, advancing menacingly.


    Two monthster, scouts rapidly conveyed the frontline military situation to various dynasties. The eight major dynasties and their royal families were filled with dread upon hearing the reports.


    The Great Zheng Dynasty, Emperor Zhong Shan!


    The legendary figure of the Divine Continent, Zhong Shan? Once the esteemed Duke of the East in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty? How many years had passed? He had already established his own dynasty? Everyone had heard of Zhong Shan''s name, and they were filled with apprehension.


    However, it was just a dynasty. Thinking they could conquer thend of chaos was foolish. The emperors focused their attention on the frontline.


    The emperor of an eastern dynasty felt a chill run down his spine. The Zhong family army, renowned across thend, was advancing towards him. Why had they chosen his dynasty? Was he seen as an easy target, the first to be conquered?


    His eyes filled with anger. The name of the Zhong family army echoed across the world, and now Shui Wuhen led the army, methodically conquering one dynasty after another. Such a powerful force, alling his way?


    Did they n to break through one by one, starting with his dynasty?


    Little did this emperor know, among all the army routes, Shui Wuhen''s might be the weakest.


    In the northeast, another dynasty faced a simr crisis.


    In the court, ministers discussed the frontline reports. A scout, having returned from the front, knelt in the hall, reporting the situation.


    "What? Say that again?" The emperor''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    "Your Majesty, the army advancing towards our dynasty is led by General Yi Yan," the scout reported.


    "Yi Yan?" The emperor gripped the dragon throne, his eyes filled with astonishment.


    The ministers began to murmur among themselves. Yi Yan was legendary, the cornerstone of the Great Yu Dynasty. No matter which dynasty he served, he was a stabilizing force. He hadn''t died? He was leading the army?


    Could it be a case of mistaken identity? The ministers looked at the scout, hoping for rification.


    "Yes, Your Majesty, it is indeed Yi Yan, the former Grand Marshal of the Great Yu Dynasty," the scout confirmed respectfully.


    "Yi Yan?" The emperor stood up from the dragon throne, his voice trembling with shock.


    "How could it be him?"


    "He is Yi Yan! How could he lower himself to serve a newly established dynasty?" The court was abuzz with disbelief.


    Everyone knew what Yi Yan represented. Initially, when they heard that the Great Zheng Dynasty dared to challenge the eight major dynasties, they found itughable. Sess seemed impossible. However, as reports of defeats kept pouring in, the ministers realized the gravity of the situation. Learning that the emperor of Great Zheng was Zhong Shan made everyone hold their breath. And then discovering that the general leading the army against them was Yi Yan, their shock was immeasurable.


    In the west, another dynasty faced its own dilemma.


    "Shuijing? The former strategist of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty? How quickly! He has already conquered three dynasties?" The emperor was stunned.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. The first dynasty surrendered voluntarily. The second was taken when it was nearly defeated by the first, and the third has just been conquered, though they are still dealing with the aftermath. Progress may slow down now," a scout reported.


    "Even if it slows down, we cannot underestimate them. Shuijing''smand is too strong. Even if I led an army, I couldn''t conquer a dynasty as quickly. No, not even half as fast!" a minister quickly interjected.


    In the northwest, another dynasty''s court was in turmoil.


    "Your Majesty, the army advancing towards us is terrifying," a minister eximed after hearing the scout''s report.


    "Your Majesty, how could Zhong Shan''s newly established Great Zheng Dynasty have such a powerful army? A sandstorm? What kind of army is this?" another minister doubted.


    "The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, Your Majesty! It''s the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation!" a strategist realized.


    "The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation?" The emperor was taken aback.


    "Yes, it''s the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, the most powerful formation of the former Great Li Heavenly Dynasty, created by the Grand Preceptor. After the Grand Preceptor''s death, it was passed to his disciple, Tai Xu Zi, whoter disappeared, leaving the formation a legend in the Divine Continent. This is the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, Your Majesty!" The strategist was in shock.


    Mention of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation brought to mind all the legends surrounding it. The emperor became extremely solemn.


    In the south, another dynasty''s court was eerily silent.


    The emperor and ministers listened to the scout kneeling on the floor.


    "Your Majesty, the army of the Great Zheng Dynasty has turned every ce they passed into a hellishndscape. Zombies, more and more zombies. Anyone bitten turns into a zombie immediately. The zombie army is advancing towards our dynasty, and it''s terrifying!" the scout reported with fear.


    Imagine an endless sea of zombiesing towards you. It was a horrifying thought. Zombies had half the strength they had in life, but there were too many of them, with endless reinforcements. Anyone bitten would be a new zombie, and if an enemy soldier died and was bitten, they would rise as a zombie too. Unless the head was destroyed, the zombie wouldn''t die!


    Some of the more timid ministers shuddered.


    "Zombies?" The emperor found it hard to believe such an army could exist.


    "Your Majesty, I have brought one back with me! It''s outside," the scout said.


    "Bring it in!" the emperor ordered.


    Several soldiers carried in a bound zombie. The creature, with its decaying body and lifeless eyes, struggled against the ropes, looking utterly horrifying.


    "Ugh, ugh, ugh," the zombie groaned and struggled.


    "Boom!"


    As soon as the zombie was brought into the hall, it broke free and lunged, biting one of the soldiers carrying it on the shoulder.


    "Sss!"


    The scout swiftly decapitated the zombie, destroying its head.


    The ministers were horrified. The zombie was dead, but its poison remained. The bitten soldier''s eyes suddenly turned red.


    "Roar!" With a terrifying roar, he charged towards the emperor.


    "Boom!"


    The emperor killed the newly turned zombie with a single palm strike. Yet, the court remained deathly silent, filled with an overwhelming sense of dread.

 Chapter 513: The Impatient Ying Lan

    <h4>Chapter 513: The Impatient Ying Lan</h4>


    The six army divisions marched towards the eight major dynasties. Initially, people treated it as a joke. The Great Zheng Dynasty''s capital was not even located here; Guangling City was merely a recently conquered territory. How could six divisions, without adequate supplies, cause any significant trouble? Moreover, the divisions were dispersed, making their forces even weaker.


    How could these six divisions conquer the eight major dynasties? A joke. The kingdoms along the way would be enough to wear them out.


    But half a yearter, all those whoughed had fallen silent.


    The six divisions were overwhelmingly powerful! Wherever they went, they were unstoppable. This was felt most acutely by the southern kingdoms. As soon as the army set up camp, they saw a horde of zombies approaching from the distance. Fear set in even before the battle began.


    The battlefield, filled with lifeless bodies, was overrun by endless waves of undead. After each skirmish, all the living turned into the dead, and the dead became zombies, shambling with decaying limbs towards the next battlefield.


    The horrors of the southern battlefield were continuously recorded by memory crystals and sent to the rear.


    The emperors of various kingdoms watched the scenes recorded in the memory crystals, swallowing hard.


    "Is that the Emperor of the Great Sheng Dynasty? He... he turned into a zombie too?" a minister eximed.


    The Great Sheng Dynasty had just been destroyed by Mr. Shi, and it was a powerful kingdom among the dynasties. The emperor had a formidable cultivation at the Integration Stage, yet he also fell to be a zombie?


    For a moment, everyone felt a shared sense of impending doom.


    "That pce!" someone suddenly shouted.


    In the image from the memory crystal, behind the endless zombies, a pce was being carried forward.


    "It must be Mr. Shi, the General of the Great Zheng Dynasty! It must be him!" someone excitedly eximed.


    "Your Majesty, if we kill Mr. Shi, the zombie army will copse!" an official excitedly suggested.


    "Indeed!" The emperor was overjoyed.


    "Your Majesty, killing Mr. Shi is not easy. We must coordinate with the southern kingdoms and send our most powerful assassins," the official advised.


    "Agreed. Prepare the ink. I will personally write to the kings of the other kingdoms," the emperor eagerlymanded.


    Assassinate Mr. Shi? It was a hopeful thought. Mr. Shi could turn even Buddhas into zombies; who could possibly kill him?


    The other five divisions were simrly powerful, though none as eerie as Mr. Shi''s army. Their attack power was terrifying, especiallymanders like Shuijing, whose cunning made their armies growrger with each battle, incorporating defeated enemies into their ranks. Within six months, their armies had swelled to nearly five million, a truly frightening force.


    Eachmander was capable ofmanding imperial armies. Against smaller kingdoms, they were overqualified.


    Of the six divisions, the most formidable was not Mr. Shi but Ying Lan''s Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation.


    While Mr. Shi''s zombie army was terrifying, its speed was slow. Ying Lan''s Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, however, was swift and overwhelming. In just six months, they had captured seven dynasties. If they conquered five more, they would face the northernmost Great Honorable Dynasty.


    The chaos of these six months had already spread beyond the chaotds to other dynasties.


    Especially notable was Han Wei, the second prince of the Great Guang Dynasty, who had arrived from the north with a three hundred thousand-strong army, intending to make his mark in the chaotds.


    Han Wei had reached the border of the Great Honorable Dynasty but had not immediately attacked. Instead, he set up camp.


    In the centralmand tent, Han Wei listened to the scout''s report.


    "The Great Zheng Dynasty? Zhong Shan?" Han Wei took a deep breath after hearing the report.


    The name Zhong Shan was all too familiar to Han Wei. It was Zhong Shan who had once destroyed the Great Guang Dynasty, a national tragedy and personal vendetta that Han Wei would never forget.


    Han Wei had never underestimated Zhong Shan. When the Heaven Copse n was executed, Zhong Shan was cemented as one of the top military strategists in the Divine Continent. He had destroyed two great dynasties, and Han Wei''s father, the emperor, held Zhong Shan in high regard. How could Han Wei take him lightly?


    Even so, hearing about the Great Zheng Dynasty sent a shock through him. A dynasty? Zhong Shan had established a dynasty already?


    How long had it been since the copse of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty? And now, Zhong Shan''s kingdom had already advanced?


    Did he intend to conquer the vast chaotds and use it to ascend to an empire?


    Han Wei was not fully aware of the recent events in the chaotds, but he knew that the Great Zheng Dynasty''s forces were divided into six routes. One route was advancing towards the Great Honorable Dynasty at a terrifying speed, using the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, the top battle formation of the former Great Li Heavenly Dynasty.


    What should he do? Stick to the original n and attack the Great Honorable Dynasty?


    No, that would be futile. If they fought to a standstill, they would be too weak to face the Great Zheng Dynasty afterward.


    Should he wait for the Great Zheng Dynasty and the Great Honorable Dynasty to weaken each other?


    Ordinarily, waiting for the two dynasties to exhaust themselves would be the best strategy, but Han Wei didn''t think so. In his mind, Zhong Shan''s abilities were monstrously formidable. If the Great Zheng Dynasty conquered the Great Honorable Dynasty and upied the natural fortifications, attacking would be much harder.


    "What should we do, Crown Prince?" a general asked.


    "Contact the royal family of the Great Honorable Dynasty. We will join forces against the Great Zheng Dynasty," Han Wei decided.


    In Guangling City, within a pavilion, Zhong Shan and Gu Qianyou were having tea. Gu Qianyou had just arrived from Tiang Ind to assist Zhong Shan.


    Every day, numerous battle reports poured in from all directions. Zhong Shan was devoted to the chaotds war, but there was too much information to process alone. Gu Qianyou helped him sift through the reports.


    "Mr. Shi is truly mysterious. How did he create the zombie army? If these zombies continue to spread, wouldn''t the entire Divine Continent be overrun? Imagine if the continent was filled with zombies��it''s unimaginable!" Gu Qianyou spoke with a mixture of disbelief and fear.


    Indeed, if a single zombie escaped, it could lead to the birth of a multitude of zombies. Over time, wouldn''t the entire Divine Continent be destroyed?


    "No, I heard Mr. Shi say that this zombie toxin is very special. It doesn''t grow indefinitely. If the zombie toxin is away from Mr. Shi for three months, itpletely fades," Zhong Shan exined.


    "I see," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    "With these continuous victories, conquering the chaotds isn''t too difficult," Gu Qianyou smiled.


    "Of course. Any two of the six could conquer the chaotds. Now, with each leading a separate army, there''s no doubt about the oue," Zhong Shan nodded confidently.


    "But..." Gu Qianyou suddenly frowned.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Ying Lan seems to be in too much of a hurry," Gu Qianyou shook her head.


    "In a hurry?" Zhong Shan thought of Ying Lan and smiled knowingly.


    "Yes, among the six divisions, Ying Lan''s army is advancing the fastest, far exceeding the other divisions. She isn''t taking a methodical approach," Gu Qianyou frowned.


    "That''s because of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation. Once it''s deployed, it''s unstoppable," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "I''ve reviewed Ying Lan''s previous battle records. Her strategies are usually very cautious and meticulous. But this time, she''s being uncharacteristically aggressive. Although she''s won the most victories, it''s been quite risky," Gu Qianyou said, shaking her head with concern.


    Worry about Ying Lan? Zhong Shan considered her safety. With a hundred celestial beans, the Shadow Guards, the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, and the nking support of Lin Xiao and Yi Yan, she should be well-protected.


    "If it''s just within the chaotds, she should be fine. You''re overthinking it," Zhong Shan reassured, shaking his head.


    "Maybe," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    Another half year passed.


    In the eastern part of the Divine Continent, four powerful dynasties emerged. These were established by the princes of the former Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty.


    The Great Yong Dynasty, founded by Gu Zhengyi.The Yongle Dynasty, founded by Gu Xuan.The Great Tang Dynasty, founded by Gu Taizong.The Spring and Autumn Dynasty, founded by Gu Zhantian.


    The rise of these four dynasties was expected by many in the Divine Continent. After all, they had divided the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty''s territory and ministers. Advancing to the status of dynasties was not surprising.


    The four princes were exceptional individuals. Establishing dynasties in just over a decade was anticipated.


    Unlike other princes in history, they were not hunted by the major powers of the Divine Continent. They were the sons of Gu Shentong, the revered figure of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. No matter what, Gu Shentong remained respected by the people of the Divine Continent, and his descendants were notpletely eradicated. However, many still kept a watchful eye on them, mainly the emperors of the major dynasties.


    There was spection among the major powers whether these princes had obtained the means to ascend to heavenly dynasties, but it was not confirmed.


    Another piece of news quickly spread across the Divine Continent.


    The former Duke of the East of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, Zhong Shan, had resurfaced.


    The Great Zheng Dynasty! Its rapid rise was being reported everywhere, reaching the ears of various powers.


    Who was Zhong Shan? After the copse of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, every dynasty wanted to recruit him, but he disappeared. It wasn''t until a few years ago that it was reported Zhong Shan had obtained the Taiji Diagram in the Underworld, shocking everyone.


    How many years had passed since then? Zhong Shan had resurfaced, establishing the Great Zheng Dynasty? He had founded his own dynasty?


    Zhong Shan had established a dynasty and quickly reached the status of a powerful kingdom. Now he wasunching attacks on the eight major dynasties? The rapid development of the Great Zheng Dynasty was astonishing.


    Did he intend to ascend to an empire in such a short time?


    Consequently, the attention of the world''s powers shifted from the princes of the Gu family to the chaotds.


    Everyone sharpened their focus, sending countless spies to the chaotds to gather information.

 Chapter 514: The Brutal War

    <h4>Chapter 514: The Brutal War</h4>


    After a year and a half of relentless campaigning, Ying Lan had sessfully cleared twelve dynasties. The power of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation had stunned the surrounding dynasties.


    Of course, to say it shocked the entire world would be an exaggeration, as these campaigns were against the lowest level dynasties. It still paled inparison to the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation in the hands of the former Grand Preceptor of the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty.


    Nevertheless, the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation had now pushed up to the border of the Great Honorable Dynasty.


    The army paused for a momentary respite.


    In the centralmand tent, Ying Lan, dressed in full battle armor, stood by arge map depicting the Great Honorable Dynasty''s territories. The time hade to face the Great Honorable Dynasty.


    Ying Lan knew that the Great Honorable Dynasty''s strength surpassed thebined might of the twelve previous dynasties. Theing war would bring unprecedented resistance.


    Therefore, she needed to carefully strategize and determine the best route of attack.


    Behind Ying Lan stood several scouts.


    "What''s the progress on all fronts?" Ying Lan asked without turning around.


    "Lin Xiao, Yi Yan, and Shuijing are each two dynasties away from their targets. As for the othermanders, they are still gathering intelligence," one scout reported.


    "Lin Xiao and Yi Yan are not as fast as I am, and the othermanders even less so," Ying Lan said with a hint of satisfaction.


    "Reporting, General! The Great Honorable Dynasty''s reinforcements, which we scouted earlier, have crossed into their territory and are advancing rapidly towards us. They will be here within a month," another scout reported.


    "Reinforcements? Hmph, the Great Guang Dynasty? Han Jiguang''s troops? The Emperor mentioned Han Jiguang isn''t dead. Han Wei bringing three hundred thousand rabble to contest the chaotds?" Ying Lan scoffed.


    "General, what are our next steps?" a general asked.


    "Rest for three days. After that, we attack the Great Honorable Dynasty and im the first victory of this war!" Ying Lanmanded coldly.


    "Yes!" the generals responded immediately.


    Though Ying Lan was a woman, her gender did not matter. She had the skills and the support of her subordinates, who were willing to follow her into battle without hesitation.


    In Han Wei''smand tent, he held a letter, reading it over and over, taking a deep breath.


    "What a brilliant strategy by the Great Honorable Emperor," Han Wei said with a hint of admiration.


    "Your Highness, what does the letter say?" an aide asked.


    "Wei Yinn''s army has entered the Great Honorable Dynasty''s territory. The Great Honorable Emperor has agreed to ambush Wei Yinn outside Lingui City," Han Wei replied.


    "Outside Lingui City? Ambush? How?" the aide asked.


    "They will lead the ambush. We are to cut off Wei Yinn''s retreat, blocking her escape route," Han Wei exined.


    "Just cut off the retreat?"


    "Just cut off the retreat. There is a hidden area nearby perfect for a surprise attack without any risk of counterattack," Han Wei borated.


    "But something feels off. Why would the Great Honorable Emperor give us such an advantageous task? They will bear the brunt of the fight against Wei Yinn, which will be very costly for them," the aide pondered.


    "Costly or not, do you think the Great Honorable Dynasty would willingly hand Lingui City over to us? They can''t afford to lose it, so they have no choice but to face Wei Yinn head-on," Han Wei said with a shrewd glint in his eyes.


    "I see! The Great Honorable Dynasty fears we might seize Lingui City, so they must take on Wei Yinn themselves," the aide nodded in understanding.


    "Prepare the army. We march at dawn," Han Wei ordered.


    "Yes!" The generals responded immediately.


    In the Great Honorable Pce, the emperor reviewed reports from all directions, surrounded by his trusted strategists.


    "Your Majesty, are we really going to be the main force in the Battle of Lingui City, leaving Han Wei to block Wei Yinn''s retreat?" one strategist asked with a frown.


    "What''s on your mind?" The Great Honorable Emperor looked at the strategist.


    "Han Wei is ambitious. If it weren''t for Wei Yinn, they might have already attacked the Great Honorable Dynasty. Why give them such an advantage?" the strategist asked, somewhat indignantly.


    "Advantage? Who said that?" The emperor smiled.


    "Uh? But didn''t Your Majesty order them to block Wei Yinn''s retreat?"


    "You''re aware of Han Wei''s ambition. Do you think I''d let him take advantage of us? He wants to y the fisherman? Let''s see if he has the ability," the emperor said coldly.


    "Uh, does Your Majesty mean..." The strategist seemed to realize something.


    "Exactly. I never intended to use our army. Let Han Wei and Wei Yinn fight it out," the emperor said.


    "But, Your Majesty, Lingui City is our stronghold. Shouldn''t we stop Wei Yinn outside the city?" the strategist asked, worried.


    "Lingui City? Haven''t you noticed how strong Wei Yinn''s momentum is? If we try to hold Lingui City, our losses will be enormous. And with Han Wei''s three hundred thousand troops watching us, no matter the oue, we will be defeated. A wisemander must sometimes make tough sacrifices," the emperor said solemnly.


    "Your Majesty is wise!" The ministers expressed their admiration.


    Ten dayster, outside Lingui City.


    Wei Yinn''s army arrived at the city gates!


    In a concealed forested area to the right rear of the army, Han Wei''s three hundred thousand troops were hidden, camouged among the rocks and trees, holding their breath.


    Only Han Wei, apanied by two aides, stood in an inconspicuous spot, watching the distance.


    "Remember, once the signal from Lingui City is given, we will cut off Wei Yinn''s retreat," Han Wei ordered.


    "Your Highness is overthinking. Wei Yinn''s army only has three hundred thousand troops. Lingui City has five hundred thousand Great Honorable Dynasty soldiers. With our forces added, even with the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, Wei Yinn is doomed," an aide said respectfully.


    "Hmm!" Han Wei nodded, a confident smile on his face,pletely unaware that he had been sold out by the Great Honorable Emperor.


    Ying Lan arranged her troops, cing the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation at the rear. In front, the hundred thousand troops she had gathered stood in another formation, exuding a fierce and imposing aura.


    "Attack!" Ying Lanmanded.


    "Roar~~~!" Three hundred thousand soldiers roared in unison, the war drums sounded, and the battle began!


    The front lines, consisting of a hundred thousand troops, charged towards the city walls of Lingui City.


    "Whoosh~~~!"


    Suddenly, a red beam shot up from the city walls, spreading red clouds across the sky.


    At the same time, a rain of arrows descended from the walls.


    In the distance, Han Wei saw the signal and his eyes lit up. He waved his hand, and countless soldiers emerged from their hiding ces, charging towards the rear of Ying Lan''s army.


    They advanced towards a critical mountainous pass, a natural choke point.


    "Ha ha!" Han Weiughed heartily.


    Wei Yinn nced at the distant rear but showed no sign of panic. She gave a quick order for the rear troops to stay vignt, then turned her attention back to Lingui City.


    The siege began in earnest. Though the initial onught was met with countless arrows and gs, over time, the strength of the arrow volleys weakened.


    Yinn narrowed her eyes, discerning the true state of Lingui City.


    Outwardly formidable but inwardly weak, Lingui City had far fewer troops than it appeared. The gates remained shut, a clear sign of theirck of confidence.


    "Right three columns, full assault! Everyone else, prepare the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation!" Yinnmanded.


    "Yes!" The generals quickly organized the troops and began forming the battle lines.


    In the distant rear, Han Wei watched Lingui City with a growing sense of unease.


    "Your Highness, why haven''t the troops from Lingui Citye out to meet the enemy?" one of his aides asked, frowning.


    The closed gates andck of action from the city''s defenders increased Han Wei''s sense of foreboding.


    Suddenly, yellow sand filled the sky. The two hundred thousand soldiers instantly transformed into a vast desert, with a terrifying sandstorm reaching toward the heavens. The sandstorm did not rush toward Lingui City but instead howled in the direction of Han Wei''s forces.


    "Something''s wrong! We''ve been tricked, Your Highness! We''ve been deceived!" an aide suddenly cried out.


    "Your Highness, we can''t retreat now. Behind us are the cities Wei Yinn has captured, effectively the territory of the Great Zheng Dynasty. Retreating would mean certain death. We have no choice but to fight Wei Yinn head-on," another aide realized, his voice filled with panic.


    Fight? Han Wei''s heart sank to the bottom of despair. He realized that he had been nothing more than a pawn in arger game.


    "Your Highness, order the troops to prepare for battle!" the aide said bitterly.


    "Prepare for battle!" Han Wei shouted in frustration.


    He had thought he could y the role of a fisherman, reaping the rewards of a conflict between the Great Honorable Dynasty and the Great Zheng Dynasty. Instead, he found himself cornered, with the Great Zheng Dynasty''s territory at his back and the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation before him.


    Father, am I truly that foolish?


    Han Wei''s face was filled with anguish. But now, he had no choice but to fight. The sandstorm was already upon them, and battle was inevitable.


    The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation shed with Han Wei''s three hundred thousand troops.


    The sandstorm surged, and the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation enveloped them. The overwhelming power made the soldiers gulp in fear, feeling an urge to flee.


    Was this a formation or a weapon of mass destruction?


    The ground turned to sand, even the high mountains crumbled into dunes. Those with low cultivation were buried alive in the sand, while those with higher cultivation were swept into the Eight Gates.


    Inside the Eight Gates, life and death fluctuated. The first battle formation of the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty was not just for show. The screams of the soldiers were endless. Han Wei''s men shed at the yellow sand with their sword auras, but the damage was negligible.


    The ughter was relentless. The desert was soaked in blood, with some areas turning red. In less than an hour, many soldiers knelt in surrender, while others fled in all directions. The morale hadpletely copsed.


    Despite being protected by powerful guards, Han Wei couldn''t escape. Going against Yinn meant there was no mercy. Targeted by Yinn, Han Wei was severely injured by the sandstorm, then filled with sand, causing his body to explode.


    The war was brutal and horrific. With Han Wei''s death, almost everyone surrendered.


    Out of the three hundred thousand troops, one milliony dead, another million surrendered, and the remaining million fled.


    Meanwhile, Yinn''s other hundred thousand troops sessfully captured Lingui City. This was a significant victory with fewer than fifty thousand casualties.

 Chapter 515: WangChen

    <h4>Chapter 515: WangChen</h4>


    In Guangling City.


    Zhong Shan reviewed the reports from the frontline.


    "Sigh, still toote!" Zhong Shan suddenly sighed.


    "What happened?" Gu Qianyou stopped her work and looked at Zhong Shan.


    "See for yourself," Zhong Shan handed her the memorial, then fell into deep thought.


    Gu Qianyou read it and frowned.


    "Ying Lan didn''t receive your letter?" Gu Qianyou asked.


    "From the timeline, the letter never reached her. No, there wasn''t even time to get it to her. Still toote. Han Wei mustn''t die yet!" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "It''s done. There''s no use dwelling on it. Let''s focus on what lies ahead," Gu Qianyou consoled.


    "Hmm, Han Jiguang is a formidable adversary��ambitious, talented, and adaptable. He''s a deep strategist. I didn''t want Ying Lan to sh with him," Zhong Shan reflected.


    "If you let Ying Lan take charge, she''ll have to face her challenges. With her wisdom, she can weigh the risks. How long can you shield her? Let her forge her own path," Gu Qianyou suggested.


    "No, Ying Lan must note to harm. As long as I live, no one can touch her," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Sigh, you''re too indulgent with Ying Lan. You never worry like this about me or our sisters," Gu Qianyou pouted, a hint of jealousy in her tone.


    Zhong Shan smiled wryly at her. "It''s not like that. I just can''t let Ying Lan take such risks."


    "So what are you going to do?" Gu Qianyou asked.


    "I''ll write another letter. As long as Ying Lan doesn''t leave the chaotds, she should be safe. She needs to focus on the Great Honorable Dynasty," Zhong Shan said.


    In the Great Guang Dynasty! The pce study.


    "Boom!"


    Han Jiguang, in a fit of rage, shattered the teacup on the table.


    The rows of close ministers remained silent, not daring to speak.


    The Crown Prince stood by, ring at a general kneeling before Han Jiguang.


    Han Wei was dead?


    No wonder Han Jiguang was so furious.


    In just one battle, three hundred thousand troops were annihted, and even themander, Han Wei, was killed. Han Jiguang had three sons, and the one he doted on most, Han Jue, had already died. Now his second son, Han Wei, was also dead.


    "Father, I am willing to lead our troops to avenge my brother!" The Crown Prince stepped forward with a look of anger.


    Han Jiguang, once a mighty emperor, quickly suppressed his rage and adopted a rational approach.


    "The Great Zheng Dynasty, Zhong Shan?" Han Jiguang narrowed his eyes.


    "Your Majesty, our nation is still recovering and cannot afford to send troops now. Besides, the Great Zheng Dynasty''s forces are too formidable. We should not provoke them," a minister advised.


    "Your Majesty, we are willing to follow the Crown Prince to avenge the Second Prince," a military officer dered.


    "Your Majesty, the sixmanders of the Great Zheng Dynasty are too strong. Prince Han Wei faced just one of them and lost three hundred thousand troops. Our nation''s situation is unstable; we cannot afford a direct confrontation," the first minister insisted.


    "No, now is precisely the time. Do we wait until the Great Zheng Dynasty consolidates the chaotds? They are at a vulnerable moment. We should strike now. The Great Zheng Dynasty, next to the Great Guang Dynasty, will sooner orter be a significant threat," another minister argued.


    "Enough!" Han Jiguang ordered, his voice cutting through the room.


    The ministers immediately fell silent.


    "Father!" Crown Prince Han Chong''s eyes were filled with impulsiveness.


    Taking a deep breath, Han Jiguang closed his eyes, seemingly in a battle with himself.


    "Han Chong, stay. Everyone else, leave," Han Jiguang said with his eyes still closed.


    "Yes!" The ministers quickly exited the room.


    "Father!" Han Chong looked at Han Jiguang expectantly.


    "Han Wei''s defeat was within my expectations. It was meant to be a trial for him, a chance for growth. After all, only by experiencing defeat can one quickly mature. I didn''t expect this defeat to cost him his life. The Great Zheng Dynasty and Zhong Shan?" Han Jiguang''s eyes shed with a hint of ruthlessness.


    "Father, let''s deploy the Ice Army!" Han Chong suggested urgently.


    Han Jiguang shot Han Chong a cold look, silencing him immediately.


    "Military action is a matter of utmost importance to the state. It cannot be driven by emotions," Han Jiguang said sternly.


    "But... my brother..." Han Chong said with a sorrowful expression.


    "If it were any other dynasty, I wouldn''t hesitate to send troops. But this is Zhong Shan we''re dealing with. We must be cautious. I met him a few years ago. He hides his strength very well, deep and inscrutable," Han Jiguang sighed.


    "No matter how deep he hides!" Han Chong retorted, unconvinced.


    "Zhong Shan has the potential to threaten those at the Imperial Extreme Realm," Han Jiguang stated.


    "How is that possible?" Han Chong eximed.


    "Decades ago, he was just at the Golden Core stage. How could he reach the Imperial Extreme Realm in such a short time?" Han Chong found it hard to ept.


    "I said he has the potential to threaten the Imperial Extreme Realm, not that he has reached it," Han Jiguang rified, his displeasure with his son''sck ofposure evident.


    "Is Father certain about this?" Han Chong, noticing Han Jiguang''s displeasure, quickly suppressed his shock and asked again.


    "Indeed. A few years ago, in the Underworld, he partnered with Jian Ao. Although his cultivation was lower than Jian Ao''s, being recognized by Jian Ao means his strength far exceeds his cultivation level. Jian Ao, at the Imperial Extreme Realm, was defeated by the Cann Demon Lord. I never fought Zhong Shan, but I could sense his threat. His true strength should be at the peak of the Imperial Extreme Realm, threatening even those at the Emperor Extreme Realm," Han Jiguang exined.


    "Then what should we do? Just let my brother''s death go unavenged?" Han Chong asked, unwilling to ept it.


    Han Jiguang fell silent for a moment.


    "Father, if that''s the case, Zhong Shan should be eliminated. His rapid growth means he will only be a greater threat over time. If we can defeat him now, we might not have the chanceter!" Han Chong insisted.


    "It''s not the right time yet," Han Jiguang finally shook his head.


    "And what about Wei Yinn? She is the direct cause of my brother''s death," Han Chong quickly mentioned Yinn, clearly wanting her dead.


    "How many times have I told you?" Han Jiguang''s expression turned cold.


    Seeing his father''s expression, Han Chong immediately fell silent, though anger flickered in his eyes.


    "If we act, it must be with overwhelming force. If we provoke Zhong Shan, it must be to kill him," Han Jiguang instructed.


    "Yes, Father, I understand," Han Chong reluctantly agreed.


    "Your Majesty, Prince Chuang requests an audience," a eunuch announced from outside the study.


    "Uncle?" Han Chong was surprised and curious.


    Han Chong nced at Han Jiguang, who furrowed his brows and narrowed his eyes slightly.


    "Let him in!" Han Jiguangmanded.


    "Brother, it''s been so long! I''ve missed you," a loud voice called from outside the study. Despite its enthusiasm, it sounded insincere.


    Two figures entered the room. One resembled Han Jiguang, wearing a red robe��it was his younger brother, Han Chuang. The other was wrapped in a loose purple robe, obscuring any identifying features.


    "Uncle," Han Chong greeted politely.


    "Chong''er? You''ve grown so much, haha!" Han Chuang responded.


    "What are you doing here?" Han Jiguang''s eyes turned cold.


    "Brother, we are still family. I''vee back to help you," Han Chuang smiled.


    "Help me? You''re more likely to cause trouble," Han Jiguang said dismissively.


    "Brother, I promised that when my training wasplete, I would return to assist you," Han Chuang said.


    "Oh? Your training isplete?" Han Jiguang''s eyes shed with disdain.


    Han Chuang looked at Han Jiguang, then released a surge of his aura.


    "Imperial Extreme Realm?" Crown Prince Han Chong eximed.


    Han Jiguang''s eyes showed a hint of approval, but Han Chuang wasn''t satisfied and continued to elevate his aura. Suddenly, a purple mark appeared on his forehead.


    A character appeared����!


    If Zhong Shan were present, he would immediately recognize it as a divine mark, simr to those of the Demon Legion. Han Chuang also possessed one?


    As his aura reached its peak, Han Jiguang''s expression grew serious, focusing on the mark on Han Chuang''s forehead.


    "This... this... this..." Han Chong was forced to step back by the overwhelming aura.


    "Emperor Extreme Realm?" Han Chong eximed in shock.


    "A talisman from the Demon Legion? You have one too?" Han Jiguang''s eyes grew cold. Clearly, he knew something about the Demon Legion.


    "The Demon Legion''s talismans are low-level divine markspared to mine," Han Chuang said, retracting his aura and divine mark.


    "A divine mark? How did you get this?" Han Jiguang asked coldly.


    "That''s not important, Brother. I came to help you because I heard about your conflict with Zhong Shan," Han Chuang replied.


    "Help me?" Han Jiguang was skeptical.


    "Of course. You''re my brother, after all. Let me introduce you��this is my junior disciple, Wang Chen. He can help you defeat the Great Zheng Dynasty," Han Chuang said.


    "Oh?" Han Jiguang looked at the purple-robed man with a hint of mockery.


    Wang Chen? Help him defeat Zhong Shan? Han Jiguang was not easily convinced.


    "Greetings, Emperor Han," Wang Chen said in a raspy voice, filled with an ancient tone.


    "You can help me defeat Zhong Shan?" Han Jiguang asked.


    "Indeed," Wang Chen replied.


    "Why are you so confident?" Han Jiguang''s tone was indifferent.


    "Because I know Zhong Shan very well," Wang Chen said calmly.


    "Know Zhong Shan? Haha!" Han Jiguangughed as if he had heard the biggest joke.


    Know Zhong Shan? Such a meticulous and secretive figure, how could anyone im to know him well? If Wang Chen''s im were true, Zhong Shan wouldn''t be considered one of the top military strategists.


    "Yes, I know Zhong Shan, and I know a fatal weakness of his, one that no one else in the Divine Continent is aware of," Wang Chen added.


    "Weakness?" Han Jiguang stared at Wang Chen, his eyes filled with a mix of mockery and curiosity. Such bold words! No one dared im to know Zhong Shan''s weakness, as he was widely regarded as having none.


    But Wang Chen''s assertion piqued Han Jiguang''s curiosity.

 Chapter 516: The Meeting of the Traitor

    <h4>Chapter 516: The Meeting of the Traitor</h4>


    "And what is Zhong Shan''s weakness?" Han Jiguang asked, looking at Wang Chen.


    "Wei Yinn," Wang Chen replied in his raspy voice.


    "Wei Yinn?" Han Jiguang''s eyes flickered with amusement.


    "Indeed, Wei Yinn. Do you know her rtionship with Zhong Shan?" Wang Chen asked.


    "Oh? Is there some special connection?" Han Jiguang looked at Wang Chen with curiosity.


    "She is Zhong Shan''s grandniece, the woman he cares about most in this world. She is his greatest weakness," Wang Chen said.


    "Oh?" Han Jiguang''s initial amusement turned into a more serious expression.


    "What Wang Chen says is entirely true. Believe it or not, the decision is yours. But if you wait any longer, the one who will regret it will be you," Wang Chen said in his raspy voice.


    "Regret? What would I regret?" Han Jiguang asked.


    "Once the chaotds are conquered, the next target will be your Great Guang Dynasty. You know Zhong Shan''s rapid growth as well as I do," Wang Chen said gravely.


    This struck a nerve with Han Jiguang, whose expression turned uncertain.


    "Brother, I can guarantee with my life that everything Wang Chen says is true!" Han Chuang interjected.


    "You... humph!" Han Jiguang looked at Han Chuang with disdain.


    Han Chuang looked disgruntled, a hint of annoyance on his face.


    Han Jiguang turned his attention back to Wang Chen.


    "What proof do you have?" Han Jiguang asked, staring at Wang Chen.


    "Proof? That''s hard toe by, but this information is absolutely true. I can even point out Zhong Shan''sir for you to investigate," Wang Chen said.


    Han Jiguang scrutinized Wang Chen, pondering deeply. Who was this Wang Chen, and how did he know so much about Zhong Shan?


    "As for knowing Zhong Shan''s weakness, I believe you''ll know what to do next," Wang Chen continued in his raspy voice.


    "Very well, stay here for now. I need to think about this," Han Jiguang did notmit immediately.


    Wang Chen nodded.


    "Brother!" Han Chuang seemed to want to say more.


    "You too, leave," Han Jiguang ordered.


    The study was left with only Han Jiguang and his son, as Han Chuang and Wang Chen were escorted out by an old eunuch to their quarters.


    As they walked, Han Chuang''s face showed a hint of disdain. It was clear that he didn''t hold his brother in high regard.


    "Here you are," the old eunuch said, pointing to a courtyard.


    "Clear everyone out!" Han Chuangmanded.


    Soon, therge courtyard was empty, leaving only Han Chuang and Wang Chen.


    "Wang Chen, what does the master want us to do here? Why not just kill Zhong Shan and be done with it? Why all this borate nning?" Han Chuangined.


    "Follow orders. You..." Wang Chen started but then stopped abruptly, looking north.


    "What is it?" Han Chuang asked.


    "Stay here. I have something to do," Wang Chen said.


    "What is it?"


    "Wait for my return," Wang Chen said before flying off.


    As he watched Wang Chen''s figure disappear into the distance, Han Chuang''s eyes shed with a cold glint.


    Wang Chen flew out of the Great Guang Dynasty''s capital, heading to a secluded forested mountain area.


    On two peaks, standing close together, stood two figures. Wang Chen, in his purple robe, stood on one peak, while a figure entirely cloaked in ck stood on the other.


    "Are you Zhong Xuan?" Wang Chen asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty.


    "Zhong Shijiu, long time no see," the ck-robed figure replied coolly.


    "I am not Zhong Shijiu anymore. Zhong Shijiu is dead. I am Wang Chen!" Wang Chen replied coldly. Surprisingly, his voice no longer carried the previous rasp, indicating that it had been an affectation.


    "Wang Chen? Do you think changing your name will help you forget your past? Can you truly forget everything by just changing your name?" Zhong Xuan taunted.


    "Hmph, you''re no different from me, hiding under that robe," Wang Chen retorted without backing down.


    "Hiding is better than forgetting your roots," Zhong Xuan responded coldly.


    "Hmph!" Wang Chen snorted.


    "How did you find me?" Wang Chen asked coldly.


    "Find you? If you do not wish to be discovered, do not act. Shijiu, you''d better notmit any more acts of rebellion, or I will not spare you," Zhong Xuan said with a sinister edge to his voice.


    "Not spare me? Who do you think you are? Our foster father? He disowned you long ago. And now you pretend to be filial? Hahaha!" Wang Chen mocked.


    Zhong Xuan fell silent, not refuting the taunt.


    "Hmph, since we''ve met today, you can stay here!" Wang Chen suddenly dered.


    Purple light erupted around Wang Chen as he flew towards Zhong Xuan.


    Zhong Xuan extended his palm, and the two shed fiercely.


    "Boom!"


    Their palms collided, unleashing a massive burst of energy. Wang Chen was forced back to his original peak.


    "Boom! Boom!"


    The two peaks exploded under the immense force, seemingly evenly matched.


    "Shijiu, take care of yourself," Zhong Xuan said indifferently before turning and flying away.


    Wang Chen did not pursue but watched Zhong Xuan''s retreating figure in deep silence. After a moment, he turned and flew back to the courtyard in the Great Guang Dynasty''s pce.


    In Guangling City.


    Zhong Shan and Gu Qianyou reviewed reports from various regions.


    Another six months had passed, and the six divisions had almostpleted their campaigns. The chaotds were nearly entirely subdued, with only the eight major dynasties remaining.


    Among them, Ying Lan had made the most rapid progress. While the other divisions had just reached the borders of the major dynasties, Ying Lan had already advanced to the capital of the Great Honorable Dynasty.


    The final battle was near!


    As Zhong Shan read thetest report, a knowing smile appeared on his face. Ying Lan was indeed pushing herself too hard. However, the final stage was approaching.


    Lost in thought, Zhong Shan turned to the next report.


    As he read, his pupils suddenly contracted.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan stood up abruptly, clearly seeing something unexpected.


    "What is it?" Gu Qianyou asked.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath and handed the letter to Gu Qianyou, his demeanor bing extremely serious.


    "The Great Guang Dynasty has sent a secret army south?" Gu Qianyou looked at the letter in surprise.


    "This doesn''t make sense. Han Jiguang shouldn''t be so reckless," Zhong Shan furrowed his brows.


    "The Ice Army? The elite force of the Great Guang Dynasty?" Gu Qianyou asked, astonished.


    "It must be," Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "Ying Lan should stay within the chaotds, right?" Gu Qianyou asked, concerned.


    "In normal circumstances, she should. But I''ll write her a letter emphasizing that she must not leave the chaotds," Zhong Shan said, picking up a brush to write.


    Three dayster, Zhong Shan and Gu Qianyou were ying chess in a pavilion.


    "Why have you been so restless these past few days?" Gu Qianyou asked worriedly.


    Zhong Shan paused, holding a chess piece.


    It''s not here. It''s my main body. Something feels off, though the Red Luan Pink Lotus hasn''t changed. The ominous feeling is growing stronger.


    "Whoosh!" Zhong Shan suddenly stood up.


    "What''s wrong?" Gu Qianyou asked.


    "I must go to Ying Lan! Something doesn''t feel right," Zhong Shan said abruptly.


    "Now?" Gu Qianyou asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, right now. I''m leaving this ce to you," Zhong Shan said, looking at Gu Qianyou seriously.


    Although she felt a twinge of jealousy over Zhong Shan''s concern for Ying Lan, Gu Qianyou knew the importance and nodded, "Alright."


    After giving some instructions, Zhong Shan quickly flew out of Guangling City, heading north toward the Great Honorable Dynasty.


    Faster, faster, faster!


    Zhong Shan had a strong sense of foreboding. Though he couldn''t pinpoint the exact nature of the threat, he sped toward Ying Lan.


    In the Great Honorable Dynasty, one of the eight major dynasties in the chaotds, Ying Lan had defeated its forces. Though the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation had lost nearly half of its two hundred thousand troops, they had ultimately toppled the Great Honorable Dynasty.


    With the fall of the Great Honorable Dynasty, the endless fortune flowed to Tiang Ind, enriching the Great Zheng Dynasty.


    Originally, Ying Lan was ready to attack the neighboring dynasty, but sudden news disrupted her ns.


    The Ice Army was moving south?


    She received two letters. After reading them, Ying Lan stopped all activities.


    Two letters from her uncles��Third Uncle and Neenth Uncle. Two men she loathed for betraying her granduncle. Now, they both wrote to her, and simultaneously?


    Ying Lan read both letters. Zhong Shijiu''s letter contained tempting words and provoked her anger, aiming to lure her out of the chaotds and into the Great Guang Dynasty.


    Zhong Xuan''s letter, on the other hand, advised her to stay within the chaotds, warning her not to leave.


    The contrasting letters made Ying Lan scoff. Since they had left the Zhong family, why pose as elders now? Ying Lan sent a message back to Zhong Shan and then carefully pondered her next move.


    Meanwhile, the Ice Army had reached the border of the chaotds.


    "Prepare the army. Move north to confront the enemy!" Ying Lanmanded.


    Ten dayster, Yi Yan and Lin Xiao received news from Ying Lan''s direction.


    "What''s happening? Why is Ying Lan moving north?" Yi Yan looked at the letter in surprise.


    "Iron Blood, withdraw the siege troops and lead the army to the northwest immediately!" Yi Yan quickly saw the urgency and issued new orders.


    "But, sir, we''re on the brink of victory. Withdrawing now would be a great loss," Iron Blood protested.


    "When I say move, you move! No more nonsense!" Yi Yan red at him.


    Simrly, upon receiving Ying Lan''s message, Lin Xiao swiftly regrouped his forces, abandoning the siege to rush to Ying Lan''s aid.

 Chapter 517: The Overwhelming Might of Han Jiguang

    <h4>Chapter 517: The Overwhelming Might of Han Jiguang</h4>


    Lin Xiao and Yi Yan had withdrawn their troops. The dynasties they were facing breathed a collective sigh of relief.


    It was terrifying. Was this really the army of a dynasty? Even the imperial armies were not as fearsome. They had conquered cities without pause, and some of their strategies had beenid out a year in advance.


    It was too frightening. These two men were too frightening.


    Their relentless advance had kept the courts of the two dynasties on edge. While the emperors tried to maintain a facade of calm, they had been inwardly anxious. When the report came that the enemy had retreated, no one could believe it. They had the messenger repeat the news multiple times.


    Ying Lan had moved north to confront the Ice Army.


    Even without the letters from Zhong Xuan and Zhong Shijiu, Ying Lan would still have gone. The Ice Army was already advancing, and she had to respond. Despite her swift victory over the Great Honorable Dynasty, only Ying Lan knew the true extent of the emperor''s strength.


    This emperor was no weaker than the Six Paths Emperor of the Yin Moon Dynasty on Tiang Ind. The hidden forces at his disposal were not those of a typical dynasty. Ying Lan realized that the twelve previous dynasties she had conquered were no match for the Great Honorable Dynasty.


    But she had ultimately prevailed.


    Next was the Ice Army.


    As the ace force of Han Jiguang, Ying Lan dared not underestimate them.


    After advancing a short distance north, she found a favorable terrain and set up her formations to await the Ice Army.


    Five dayster.


    In a city of the Great Guang Dynasty.


    Han Jiguang stood before Wang Chen, Han Chuang, and his ministers, with only Crown Prince Han Chong absent.


    "Your Majesty, is this to temper the Crown Prince?" a minister asked.


    "Chong''er is eager for revenge. Let him go. With Han Yi overseeing things, capturing Wei Yinn should not be a problem," Han Jiguang said.


    "The Ice Army? Are they really that powerful?" Wang Chen asked, frowning.


    "When the Ice Army moves, it freezes thend for thousands of miles, like a subterranean spring emerging. Their power is overwhelming. The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation? Hah, unless the Grand Preceptor of the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty himself sets it up, it won''t hold," Han Jiguang said with utmost confidence.


    "Junior Brother, don''t worry. The Ice Army rarely shows itself, but it has never been defeated. It was the Ice Army that established the Great Guang Dynasty," Han Chuang added confidently.


    Han Jiguang nodded at his brother.


    "Report!"


    A soldier''s urgent voice echoed from outside the hall.


    Everyone''s brows furrowed, a sense of foreboding washing over them.


    A man dressed in icy armor, covered in blood and missing his right arm, staggered into the hall and knelt before Han Jiguang.


    "Your Majesty, the Ice Army has been defeated!" the man cried, tears streaming down his face.


    "Han Yi!" Han Jiguang couldn''t believe his eyes.


    Looking at the highestmander of the Ice Army, Han Yi, Han Jiguang felt as if he were dreaming.


    "Impossible, impossible!" Han Jiguang''s eyes shed with fury.


    "Your Majesty, I failed. I couldn''t protect the Crown Prince. Fifty thousand Ice Army soldiers are all dead. Only a few managed to escape," Han Yi said with immense guilt.


    "How could this happen? You are the Ice Army! How did you lose?" Han Jiguang roared in anger.


    "The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation. It was the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation. At first, the Ice Army formed the ''Illusory World Spring,'' gaining the upper hand. The entire sky of yellow sand was frozen by our formation. But then, the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation seemed to evolve. The sand turned into blood sand, a scorching red sand that overwhelmed the Illusory World Spring. Our formation was shattered instantly, leading to a one-sided massacre. We did everything to protect the Crown Prince but failed. Your Majesty, I am deeply sorry!" Han Yi kowtowed repeatedly, tears streaming down his face.


    "Roar~~~!"


    Han Jiguang''s eyes turned blood-red.


    "Zhong Shan! Wei Yinn!" Han Jiguang roared, his figure flickering before disappearing from the hall.


    Han Chuang and Wang Chen exchanged a nce. Han Chuang quickly ran out, but Wang Chen did not follow.


    Han Jiguang was truly enraged. During the Great Guang Empire''s heyday, the three princes and the Ice Army were symbols of pride and strength. Now, what had happened? Han Jiguang could hardly believe what he had heard.


    The Crown Prince, thest of the three princes, was dead? The Ice Army had been annihted?


    It was all because of Zhong Shan. Since Zhong Shan''s appearance, the Great Guang Empire had fallen, the three princes had died, and the Ice Army was destroyed.


    Han Jiguang''s hatred for Zhong Shan and Wei Yinn was boundless.


    Even as a former emperor, he was losing control of his emotions. How had ite to this? Chong''er! Wei''er! Jue''er!


    "Roar~~~!"


    Han Jiguang charged out in fury.


    Han Chuang followed closely behind, along with some of the Great Guang Dynasty''s guards, but Han Jiguang''s speed was too great. He vanished from sight in an instant.


    Ying Lan''s Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation had defeated the pride of the Great Guang Dynasty.


    The Ice Army was annihted.


    Witnessing the strength of the Ice Army, Ying Lan had been astonished. The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation had barely withstood their assault. In the final moments, Ying Lan had released a hundred celestial beans, transforming them into a hundred golden-armored warriors to reinforce the formation. She also used the blood sacrifice technique within the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, using her own blood to catalyze the formation.


    Only then did she manage to annihte the Ice Army.


    However, the battle had been incredibly costly. The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation had suffered heavy losses, with fewer than fifty thousand troops remaining. Ying Lan herself was severely wounded.


    Surveying the battlefield littered with corpses and the shatteredndscape, Ying Lan wiped the blood from her mouth.


    From the overwhelming strength of the Ice Army, Ying Lan sensed a greater conspiracy.


    Ying Lan smelled a dense scent of intrigue.


    "Retreat~~~!" Ying Lanmanded without hesitation, leading her troops back into the chaotds.


    A few dayster, Ying Lan''s instincts red with a sense of imminent danger.


    "Form the formation!" Ying Lan shouted urgently.


    The remaining fifty thousand troops quickly assembled the formation without hesitation.


    Ying Lan swiftly took out another hundred celestial beans to incorporate into the formation.


    In an instant, the army transformed into a massive desert.


    "Whoosh."


    Just as the formation waspleted, a gigantic golden hand appeared in the sky.


    The golden hand, a hundred feet wide, descended from the heavens, mming into the desert.


    "Boom~~~!"


    Under the giant palm, the entire desert erupted with a storm of sand.


    "Ugh, ugh, ugh..."


    Countless soldiers within the formation spat blood from the immense pressure of the attack.


    It was too strong. The power of that single palm strike was overwhelming.


    Ying Lan stood at the center of the formation, the dragon''s eye, and looked up at the sky. There, a majestic man in a white dragon robe floated, radiating a fierce aura. His presence caused the very sky to darken.


    "Han Jiguang, what do you want?" Wei Yinn shouted to the heavens.


    "What do I want? I want to kill you!" Han Jiguang''s eyes zed with fury.


    "An emperor personally attacking with his own strength to kill enemy soldiers? Are you willing to sacrifice the Great Zheng Dynasty''s fortune?" Wei Yinn shouted.


    "Fortune? Even if I lose the fortune, I will kill you to avenge my son!" Han Jiguang responded, his hand moving as a chilling white sword appeared in his grasp.


    With those words, Han Jiguang swung his sword fiercely toward the sandstorm formation below.


    "Death Gate!" Ying Lan cried out.


    The desert shifted rapidly, and ck gas erupted from the sands, meeting Han Jiguang''s vast sword aura head-on.


    "Boom!"


    Arge section of the desert was obliterated by the sword strike. The power of Han Jiguang''s attack was too immense.


    There was no chance to counterattack. Nearly fifty thousand soldiers died instantly.


    Ying Lan realized she was at a critical juncture. She could no longer hold anything back.


    "With my blood, I invoke the Blood Sacrifice of the Eight Gates Formation!" Ying Lan shouted. Then, she spat a mouthful of blood.


    Endless demonic energy surged from the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation, turning the entire desert blood-red.


    A searing heat ignited the surrounding earth, burning everything.


    "Roar!"


    Han Jiguang''s sword danced rapidly. This was the formation, the blood sand, that had killed his eldest son.


    Han Jiguang seemed to go berserk, his sword shing repeatedly with overwhelming force, quickly breaking through the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation.


    The power of the Imperial Extreme Realm was too great. Even the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation couldn''t withstand it, not with Ying Lan''s current cultivation level.


    Han Jiguang charged into the sandstorm, dismantling the formation from within. He moved in and out of the eight gates, wreaking havoc.


    With unparalleled ferocity, Han Jiguang ughtered forty thousand soldiers in just half an hour. Thousands more were severely injured and unable to move.


    The Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation was destroyed. Even the hundred golden-armored warriors around Ying Lan were shattered, leaving only a few barely intact to protect her.


    Han Jiguang broke through the formation and pointed his sword directly at Ying Lan.


    At the chaotds'' border, Zhong Shan''s shadow form raced northward.


    Having just learned of Ying Lan''s northward advance, and with Lin Xiao and Yi Yan''s armies in pursuit, Zhong Shan didn''t pause for a moment. Even when he passed by Yi Yan''s army, he didn''t stop to greet them, speeding relentlessly towards the north.


    The sense of foreboding grew stronger.


    Faster, faster, faster!

 Chapter 518: Zhong Shan Arrives

    <h4>Chapter 518: Zhong Shan Arrives</h4>


    The overwhelming force of the Han Ji Guang''s frigid light wrought immense destruction, leaving the once-mighty army decimated. Only a dozen golden-armored warriors, transformed from celestial beans, remained by Ying Lan''s side. Pale from blood loss, Ying Lan''s face betrayed no hint of fear.


    "Now, it''s just you," Han Ji Guang''s sword pointed at Ying Lan, his voice dripping with menace. He seemed to relish the prospect of seeing fear and regret in Ying Lan''s eyes.


    But Ying Lan, though a woman, was far too proud to be cowed by the threat of death. She red coldly at Han Ji Guang, unaware that the man she had unwittingly in with the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation was Han Ji Guang''s brother, Han Chong. She couldn''t fathom why the great Han Ji Guang would lower himself to personally pursue her.


    In wars between empires, emperors typically did not fight on the front lines. They emerged only during decisive moments. It wasn''t about personal heroism; the stakes were the empire''s fate and its destiny. Victory wasn''t about defeating a single opponent but winning the war to seize the fortune of thend.


    "Han Ji Guang, once an emperor, yet your mental fortitude is socking. No wonder your empire couldn''tst," Ying Lan''s expression shifted slightly as she spoke.


    "Hahaha, are you finally afraid?" Han Ji Guang''s face twisted with a hint of madness.


    Ying Lan was not afraid of death. What she feared was being unable to see Zhongshan again. For years, she thought her feelings for him were mere admiration and respect. But as time passed, she understood her true emotions, though she never dared to voice them. Seeing Zhongshan brought her satisfaction. When Zhongshan was happy, she was happy; when Zhongshan was angry, she shared his anger.


    Would she never see him again?


    "Do you think my ''fear'' will satisfy you?" Ying Lan asked coldly.


    "No, I don''t just want your life; I want Zhongshan''s life too. I know how important you are to him. I won''t kill you," Han Ji Guang replied with a chilling voice.


    With those words, he swung his sword swiftly, annihting the remaining golden-armored warriors around Ying Lan.


    The battlefield was left with only Ying Lan standing amidst the carnage.


    "You want to use me to threaten Zhongshan?" Ying Lan''s eyes widened in fury.


    A terrifying aura of malice erupted from her, startling even Han Ji Guang.


    "Nascent Soul stage, and you possess such malevolence?" Han Ji Guang was taken aback.


    "You want to kill Zhongshan? In your dreams!" Ying Lan''s fury was palpable.


    Any instinct for self-preservation vanished, reced by a fierce determination. Ying Lan would not allow anyone to harm Zhongshan, even at the cost of her own life.


    In a swift motion, Ying Lan retrieved a mountain of ck spheres from her storage bracelet.


    These ck spheres were explosive devices, more potent than the gunpowder concocted by Zhongshan''s people. Thunder Pearls!


    She had a mountain of them.


    Seeing this, Han Ji Guang''s eyes narrowed in rm. Was Ying Lan nning to blow them both up?


    Without hesitation, Han Ji Guang unleashed a streak of blue light.


    Aurora Crystal Wall!


    This was the same powerful technique he had once used to freeze Zhongshan and Jian Ao in theherworld sky.


    The power of an Emperor at the Ultimate Realm was simply too overwhelming. Even a mountain of Thunder Pearls, once detonated, was sealed away by the Aurora Crystal Wall. The formidable Han Ji Guang, with his immense cultivation, left Ying Lan with no room for resistance.


    Imprisoned within the Crystal Wall, Ying Lan red defiantly at Han Ji Guang.


    "Do you hate me? Hahaha, our enmity is destined to be eternal. You killed my two sons, destroyed my Ice Army, and for that, you will surely die. As for Zhongshan, I will use you to draw him out. I don''t believe Zhongshan will refuse to surrender when you''re involved. I may not be able to control Zhongshan, but with you, he will willingly submit to me. Hahahaha!" Han Ji Guang''s voice was icy, his eyes filled with hatred.


    Ying Lan stared at Han Ji Guang, her eyes reflecting a mixture of sorrow and regret��regret that she would never see Zhongshan again. Her gaze then hardened with determination. She could not let Zhongshan be harmed, no matter the cost.


    With onest, fierce re at Han Ji Guang, as if condemning him to death, Ying Lan thought, "Granduncle will avenge me. He will kill you."


    Seeing Ying Lan''s cold expression, Han Ji Guang suddenly felt a sense of foreboding. Sure enough, a flush of red appeared on Ying Lan''s face, and blood trickled from the corner of her mouth, staining the Crystal Wall.


    "You''remitting suicide?" Han Ji Guang eximed.


    With a flick of his hand, he dispelled the Aurora Crystal Wall, sending the exploded Thunder Pearls skyward, where they detonated into a massive ck cloud.


    "Pfft..." Ying Lan spat out a mouthful of blood.


    "You... you''re self-destructing your Nascent Soul for Zhongshan?" Han Ji Guang was shocked.


    This woman was insane. For Zhongshan, she was willing to destroy her own Nascent Soul? Han Ji Guang couldn''tprehend it. In his world, such self-sacrificial love was unimaginable. Even for his three sons, his emotions had never surpassed mere anger. When his most beloved third son, Han Jue, died, he remainedposed. But now, he was rattled by Ying Lan''s actions. She had gone mad,mitting suicide for Zhongshan?


    Ying Lan, blood gushing from her mouth, sensed the Aurora Crystal Wall had been removed.


    Seeing Han Ji Guang''s disbelief, a rare smile appeared on Ying Lan''s lips. Although their confrontation ended with her suicide, it was a victory for her.


    "You will die a miserable death," Ying Lan said with a fleeting burst of vitality, while blood continued to pour from her mouth.


    In the distance, Zhongshan rushed towards the scene, a ck shadow moving at breakneck speed. His sense of foreboding grew stronger with each passing moment. Faster, faster!


    Suddenly, he saw a massive ck cloud in the sky, the result of the Thunder Pearls detonating high above.


    Without hesitation, Zhongshan sped towards that direction.


    In an instant, Zhongshan reached the battlefield.


    Everyone was dead. Blood and dismembered bodies covered the ground. All were dead,pletely annihted.


    Only two figures remained in the center: a furious Han Ji Guang gripping his sword, and Wei Ying Lan, slowly copsing. Zhongshan could feel her life force waning.


    "No!" Zhongshan roared, his voice echoing through the battlefield as he rushed towards the center.


    Ying Lan, Ying Lan was dying? No, it couldn''t be!


    Zhongshan rushed forward, his shadowy formpletely undetectable until his shout reverberated through the air, startling Han Ji Guang. He had not sensed anyone else around him. In the blink of an eye, Zhongshan''s shadow materialized in front of Ying Lan, transforming into his human form as he caught her in his arms.


    So fast! Han Ji Guang hadn''t noticed Zhongshan''s movement at all. How could he be this quick?


    "Ying Lan!" Zhongshan cried out, pouring his vital energy rapidly into her body.


    Ying Lan was falling, on the brink of death, but she felt no regret for her suicide, only a tinge of sorrow that she couldn''t see Zhongshan onest time. As she sensed the end approaching, she suddenly felt herself being held. She looked up to see the man she had never expected, yet longed to see the most.


    "Zhongshan!" Han Ji Guang''s eyes widened as he saw Zhongshan cradling Ying Lan in his arms from afar.


    Toote, he was a step toote.


    Zhongshan looked at Ying Lan, his eyes filled with remorse and self-me. Then, his gaze shifted to Han Ji Guang, now burning with endless hatred.


    A fierce, murderous intent emanated from Zhongshan''s eyes, causing Han Ji Guang to tighten his grip on his sword, though he did not show fear.


    "Since you''re here, die with your little lover," Han Ji Guang said coldly.


    "Heaven and Earth, rise the Wolf King!" Zhongshan roared.


    Smoke engulfed the area around Zhongshan as he poured all his vital energy into a powerful summoning. The Wolf King was not merely a leader of wolves but an entity akin to a Dragon King, a true powerhouse of the wolf n at the Emperor''s Ultimate Realm. Having reached the Imperial Peak Realm, Zhongshan could summon such a mighty wolf with his full strength.


    As the smoke cleared, a ck-d man with a long scar across his face, exuding raw masculinity and dominance, appeared on the battlefield.


    "Zhongshan, you actually have the right to summon me?" The man said nonchntly.


    The ck-d man quickly assessed the situation, realizing the gravity of it as Zhongshan ignored him.


    "Wolf King Sha Po?" Han Ji Guang''s eyes narrowed.


    He couldn''t believe Zhongshan had summoned this infamous wolf king. How could this be? Sha Po was a notorious tyrant among the wolves.


    Zhongshan, despite his hatred for Han Ji Guang, had no time to deal with him personally. Han Ji Guang had to die, but nothing was more important than Ying Lan''s life at this moment.


    The shadow form of Zhongshan held Ying Lan tightly. Her long hair flowed, and knowing she was about to die, she smiled softly, holding onto Zhongshan''s neck and gazing at him with a dreamy look.


    On Sirius Ind, the real Zhongshan was in the middle of a morning court session when his eyes widened in shock. Without a word to his ministers, he flew out of the Hall of Longevity.


    "Mud Buddha!" Zhongshan''s desperate shout echoed as he left the hall.


    Ying Lan''s Nascent Soul had shattered; she was on the verge of death. She couldn''t die, not now. Zhongshan frantically thought of any possible way to save her.


    Two people came to his mind: the Mud Buddha and Mr. Corpse. Finding Mr. Corpse now was impossible, so Mud Buddha was his only hope. He had to find Mud Buddha immediately!

 Chapter 519: The Sky Changes

    <h4>Chapter 519: The Sky Changes</h4>


    On Sirius Ind, within the Celestial Observatory at the Qintianjian, the Mud Buddha was deeply engrossed in studying some ancient, yellowed manuscripts, his brow furrowed in thought.


    "Mud Buddha!" A sudden urgent shout rang out from outside.


    The Mud Buddha''s head snapped up, surprise flickering in his eyes. It was the Emperor''s voice, but it was so frantic. What could have happened? The Mud Buddha had never seen Zhongshan so agitated before. Zhongshan''sposure was legendary; nothing seemed capable of shaking him. But this voice was unmistakably Zhongshan''s.


    Realizing that something significant must have urred, the Mud Buddha''s aura red as he prepared to fly out.


    Sensing the Mud Buddha''s presence from afar, Zhongshan left a shadowy afterimage in his wake as he darted towards the Celestial Observatory north of Xuanjing.


    The Mud Buddha had just reached the main hall''s entrance when he saw Zhongshan approaching.


    Zhongshan''s eyes were bloodshot, his expression a mix of panic, fear, and urgency. The Mud Buddha had never seen him like this. What on earth had happened?


    "Ying Lan self-destructed her Nascent Soul. She''s dying. Is there any way to save her?" Zhongshan shouted as he neared.


    Ying Lan self-destructed her Nascent Soul? The Mud Buddha couldn''t process it immediately. Where was she?


    "Quickly! Is there any way to save her?" Zhongshan shouted again.


    The urgency in Zhongshan''s voice snapped the Mud Buddha back to reality.


    "Self-destructed her Nascent Soul? How long ago?" the Mud Buddha asked.


    "Half an incense stick of time," Zhongshan replied.


    Half an incense stick? The Mud Buddha''s brow furrowed deeply.


    Seeing the Mud Buddha''s expression, Zhongshan knew it was bad.


    "No, it''s toote. Ying Lan is beyond saving," the Mud Buddha shook his head.


    "Dead?" Zhongshan''s eyes widened with killing intent as he stared at the Mud Buddha.


    Even ustomed to dealing with malevolent energy in his feng shui practice, the Mud Buddha felt a chill. Zhongshan''s intense aura was overwhelming.


    "Your Majesty, saving General Ying Lan is not the priority now!" the Mud Buddha quickly said.


    "What?" Zhongshan red at the Mud Buddha, his face filled with rage.


    Not the priority? To Zhongshan, nothing was more important than saving Ying Lan right now.


    The Mud Buddha felt Zhongshan''s imposing presence, a dominance so intense it seemed like an imminent thunderous attack. Cold sweat beaded on the Mud Buddha''s forehead. Was this still the Emperor''s Peak Realm? This imperial might was more intimidating than anything even the old Buddha had projected.


    But having spoken, the Mud Buddha braced himself to exin.


    "Your Majesty, saving her is impossible now. The most crucial thing is to preserve General Ying Lan''s soul, to prevent it from scattering and bing formless," the Mud Buddha said with difficulty.


    Hearing this, Zhongshan''s expression became deste.


    "Is there really no way to save her?" Zhongshan asked again.


    The Mud Buddha shook his head. At least, he had no solution.


    After a moment of silence, Zhongshan reluctantly epted the harsh reality. Time was of the essence. He had to act quickly to save Ying Lan''s soul.


    Chapter 519: The Sky Changes


    In the Celestial Observatory at the Qintianjian on Sirius Ind, the Mud Buddha was engrossed in reading ancient manuscripts, his brows furrowed in deep thought.


    "Mud Buddha!" A sudden urgent shout echoed from outside.


    The Mud Buddha''s head snapped up, surprise flickering in his eyes. It was the Emperor''s voice, but it was frantic. What could have happened? The Mud Buddha had never seen Zhongshan so agitated before. Zhongshan''sposure was legendary; nothing seemed capable of shaking him. But this voice was unmistakably Zhongshan''s.


    Realizing that something significant must have urred, the Mud Buddha''s aura red as he prepared to fly out.


    Sensing the Mud Buddha''s presence from afar, Zhongshan left a shadowy afterimage in his wake as he darted towards the Celestial Observatory north of Xuanjing.


    The Mud Buddha had just reached the main hall''s entrance when he saw Zhongshan approaching.


    Zhongshan''s eyes were bloodshot, his expression a mix of panic, fear, and urgency. The Mud Buddha had never seen him like this. What on earth had happened?


    "Ying Lan self-destructed her Nascent Soul. She''s dying. Is there any way to save her?" Zhongshan shouted as he neared.


    Ying Lan self-destructed her Nascent Soul? The Mud Buddha couldn''t process it immediately. Where was she?


    "Quickly! Is there any way to save her?" Zhongshan shouted again.


    The urgency in Zhongshan''s voice snapped the Mud Buddha back to reality.


    "Self-destructed her Nascent Soul? How long ago?" the Mud Buddha asked.


    "Half an incense stick of time," Zhongshan replied.


    Half an incense stick? The Mud Buddha''s brow furrowed deeply.


    Seeing the Mud Buddha''s expression, Zhongshan knew it was bad.


    "No, it''s toote. Ying Lan is beyond saving," the Mud Buddha shook his head.


    "Dead?" Zhongshan''s eyes widened with killing intent as he stared at the Mud Buddha.


    Even ustomed to dealing with malevolent energy in his feng shui practice, the Mud Buddha felt a chill. Zhongshan''s intense aura was overwhelming.


    "Your Majesty, saving General Ying Lan is not the priority now!" the Mud Buddha quickly said.


    "What?" Zhongshan red at the Mud Buddha, his face filled with rage.


    Not the priority? To Zhongshan, nothing was more important than saving Ying Lan right now.


    The Mud Buddha felt Zhongshan''s imposing presence, a dominance so intense it seemed like an imminent thunderous attack. Cold sweat beaded on the Mud Buddha''s forehead. Was this still the Emperor''s Peak Realm? This imperial might was more intimidating than anything even the old Buddha had projected.


    But having spoken, the Mud Buddha braced himself to exin.


    "Your Majesty, saving her is impossible now. The most crucial thing is to preserve General Ying Lan''s soul, to prevent it from scattering and bing formless," the Mud Buddha said with difficulty.


    Hearing this, Zhongshan''s expression became deste.


    "Is there really no way to save her?" Zhongshan asked again.


    The Mud Buddha shook his head. At least, he had no solution.


    After a moment of silence, Zhongshan reluctantly epted the harsh reality. Time was of the essence. He had to act quickly to save Ying Lan''s soul.


    A person''s soul has only a one percent chance of bing a ghost and entering the underworld; the remaining ny-nine percent dissipate into the energy of the world. Ying Lan''s soul could not be allowed to scatter. At the very least, she needed to be a ghost so that Zhongshan could eventually restore her body when he achieved greater power.


    "What must be done?" Zhongshan urgently asked.


    "Where is Ying Lan?" the Mud Buddha inquired.


    "On the battlefield!" Zhongshan replied.


    "Have many people recently died there?" the Mud Buddha asked.


    "Yes, the ground is littered with corpses," Zhongshan confirmed.


    "Good, then set up the ''Great Yin Gathering Soul Array'' to harness the yin energy and aid Ying Lan," the Mud Buddha instructed quickly, using magic to manifest the array and teaching Zhongshan how to execute it.


    On the vastnd of Shenzhou, the shadow form of Zhongshan held Ying Lan. The Wolf King Sha Po red menacingly at Han Ji Guang.


    Zhongshan, holding Ying Lan, waved his hand, causing the ground beneath them to depress and tten. With another wave, a pattern resembling an altar with rune-like grooves appeared on the ground.


    The altar seemed to emit a strange, sinister aura, drawing blood from the surrounding corpses to fill the grooves, creating a red, malevolent energy.


    A deeply evil presence spread from the center of the battlefield.


    Han Ji Guang''s eyes narrowed as he watched Zhongshan, while the Wolf King Sha Po looked on in astonishment.


    "What is this?" Sha Po asked in surprise.


    Zhongshan ignored them both, cing Ying Lan at the center of the altar.


    "Laner, Granduncle couldn''t protect you," Zhongshan said, tears streaming down his face.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s tears, Ying Lan smiled weakly, using her hand to wipe his cheek.


    Zhongshan did not stop her, knowing she was on the brink of death.


    Ying Lan''s hand caressed Zhongshan''s face, wiping away his tears.


    Han Ji Guang watched Ying Lan intently. Wei Ying Lan had self-destructed her Nascent Soul; there was no saving her, not even by a celestial being. What was Zhongshan trying to do? Could he somehow save her?


    Zhongshan retrieved a ck silk handkerchief, emitting a faint ck mist, with an illusionary depth resembling an abyss. Two green and red characters were embossed on it: "Ten Halls."


    Seeing the "Ten Halls" in Zhongshan''s hand, both Han Ji Guang and the Wolf King felt a jolt of unease.


    Such heavy yin energy, such malevolent energy! What was this?


    "Laner, I couldn''t protect you. This is all I can give you now. May it strengthen your soul," Zhongshan said, tears streaming down his face, cing the "Ten Halls" in Ying Lan''s hand.


    This "Ten Halls" was a treasure given to Zhongshan by the ghost woman Ruyan, who had waited a thousand years for her husband, Xiao Bingyi. Before returning to the underworld, she had given it to Zhongshan, not knowing its true value.


    Ying Lan, extremely weak, clutched the "Ten Halls," while her other hand continued to caress Zhongshan''s face.


    On the altar, countless streams of blood-red energy and green energy flowed into Ying Lan''s body. Endless death energy and malevolent energy filled her, turning her entire body green, making her look eerily sinister. Zhongshan, holding her, felt the bone-chilling coldness of her body.


    On the battlefield, where hundreds of thousands had perished, most souls had already dispersed into the vast yin energy, ready to dissipate into the heavens and earth. The altar''s purpose was to purify and concentrate this yin energy, then infuse it into Ying Lan''s body, anchoring her soul and preventing it from scattering. This would ensure she could safely enter the underworld and be a proper ghost.


    As Ying Lan''s body grew greener, Zhongshan''s anguish deepened. Holding Ying Lan in his arms, watching her slowly die, he was transported back to over a hundred years ago when his wife, Wei Kuier, had died. He had been just as powerless then, utterly helpless.


    Pain consumed Zhongshan''s heart.


    "Granduncle!" Ying Lan''s body trembled, as if frozen stiff by the overwhelming yin energy, making speech difficult.


    "I''m here!" Zhongshan held her tighter, his heart breaking at the sight of her pain.


    "Lan''er is leaving. Can you kiss me onest time?" Ying Lan''s eyes, tinged with death, looked at Zhongshan expectantly.


    As their eyes met, Zhongshan finally understood Ying Lan''s feelings. He recalled a yful conversation they once had:


    "Does my Lan''er fancy anyone? Granduncle can arrange a proposal. If he refuses, I''ll kidnap him for you." "No, no. My man must surpass Granduncle, otherwise, Lan''er will remain single forever."


    Now, as Ying Lany dying in his arms, Zhongshan could not ept it, but she was barely holding on.


    Ying Lan''s legs had already begun to dissipate into energy under the impact of the endless yin force. Though her body was being consumed, ensuring her transformation into a ghost required the abandonment of her physical form.


    Unaware of the pain in her legs, Ying Lan gazed at Zhongshan with tenderness and longing. The sight reminded Zhongshan of his wife, Wei Kuier, in her final moments.


    "Kuier, I have failed you. I couldn''t protect Lan''er!" Zhongshan thought, tears streaming down his face, his heart heavy with sorrow.


    As Ying Lan''s face seemed to morph into Kuier''s, Zhongshan was lost in grief.


    "Can you kiss me onest time?" ''Kuier'' asked again.


    Overwhelmed with emotion, Zhongshan lowered his head and kissed the cold, lifeless lips of ''Kuier.''


    Ying Lan''s lower body hadpletely vanished, bing energy. The dissolution continued upward, yet she smiled, having received thest kiss she longed for, even if her lips had lost all sensation.


    Ying Lan had no regrets, smiling as she faded away. Her hand, body, and head all vanished, consumed by the yin energy, leaving nothing behind.


    Ying Lan was dead, utterly andpletely, without a trace left behind. A crushing grief overwhelmed Zhongshan, leaving his hands empty.


    "Roar!" Zhongshan roared to the heavens, a primal scream of pain and rage.


    As his terrifying scream echoed, a boundless ck aura erupted from Zhongshan''s body, a pure malevolent energy. Ying Lan''s death had unleashed an infinite rage within him. Green light suddenly shone from his eyes.


    His Reincarnation Eyes, catalyzed by his own fury, red open.


    Green light pierced the sky, and the ck malevolent energy formed a colossal ck eye in the heavens, resembling the ancient Celestial Eye. Just one nce at this eye emanated an overwhelming sense of evil.


    An endless malevolence filled the air. The sky darkened as ck clouds swiftly covered the battlefield. The sky changed!

 Chapter 520: Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill!

    <h4>Chapter 520: Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill!</h4>


    The sky was covered in ck clouds, lightning shing as if heralding the birth of a monstrous cmity. Zhongshan''s eyes glowed with a green light, and the colossal ck eye in the sky grew increasingly solid.


    Evil, endless evil energy.


    The terrifying evil force radiated outward. The Wolf King Sha Po''s eyes tightened, and he stepped back before turning his gaze to Han Ji Guang.


    The Wolf King drew arge de and swung it towards Han Ji Guang.


    Sha Po knew Zhongshan was at a critical moment and couldn''t let Han Ji Guang interfere. He didn''t fully understand Han Ji Guang''s secret techniques, but he could keep him pressured, preventing him from using any additional methods to disrupt Zhongshan.


    "Boom!"


    The sh between the two powerful beings released an energy wave that shot into the sky.


    The ck clouds scattered, perhaps ready to disperse on their own. In the sky, the ck eye formed from Zhongshan''s malevolent energy finally took shape. The center of the ck eye, like Zhongshan''s own eyes, radiated green light.


    Han Ji Guang and the Wolf King, locked in battle, could only make out the vague outline of the green light.


    Within the green light was a massive passageway.


    A tunnelposed of countless rings of light, exuding an ominous feeling that even the Emperor Realm experts sensed as a threat during their fight.


    A powerful threat.


    Han Ji Guang, dodging the Wolf King''s attack, nced deeply at Zhongshan before turning and swiftly flying away.


    Han Ji Guang felt a twinge of danger. This foreboding indicated that Zhongshan now possessed strength equal to his own. Coupled with the Wolf King, Han Ji Guang knew he would surely be defeated.


    So, he retreated, nning to deal with Zhongshan another day.


    The Wolf King watched Han Ji Guang''s retreating figure and, once assured he was truly gone, turned to look at Zhongshan.


    Above Zhongshan, the giant ck eye formed from malevolent energy hadpletely vanished.


    Zhongshan stood there, staring at the distant Han Ji Guang, the green light in his eyes fading. However, his pupils had turned green, looking like two green tunnels, each filled with an array of colors. They were strange and unsettling.


    The Reincarnation Eyes. These were the Reincarnation Eyes!


    Zhongshan had mastered the Reincarnation Eyes, but there was no joy, only boundless hatred.


    Han Ji Guang!


    "Zhongshan, what just happened?" the Wolf King asked, approaching Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan turned to look at him.


    The Wolf King involuntarily stepped back.


    Too terrifying. What was this? For a moment, the Wolf King felt as if his soul was being pulled out of his body, as if Zhongshan''s eyes were about to absorb his soul.


    How could this be? He was an Emperor Realm expert with an unyielding soul. Not even a Supreme''s gaze would be this frightening. Why was Zhongshan''s gaze so different?


    The Wolf King''s eyes were filled with uncertainty and suspicion.


    Was this the same Zhongshan he once looked down upon?


    Zhongshan nced at the Wolf King.


    "You go back on your own," Zhongshan said curtly before turning and flying away.


    Zhongshan''s mood was terrible, filled with an unquenchable hatred for Han Ji Guang. Killing him would be too easy. He wanted Han Ji Guang utterly ruined, disgraced, tortured, and his entire n exterminated.


    It was only after Zhongshan had flown far away that the Wolf King Sha Po realized his clothes were soaked with sweat. He cast a lingering nce in the direction Zhongshan had gone before turning eastward, heading back to Sirius Ind to report to the Supreme and seek counsel.


    Han Ji Guang returned to his court, meeting Han Chuang along the way.


    Together, they returned to the pce.


    "Elder brother, is Chong''er really dead? What about Wei Ying Lan?" Han Chuang asked.


    The ministers around them also turned their attention to Han Ji Guang, with Wangchen staring intently at him.


    "Wei Ying Lan is dead," Han Ji Guang stated.


    Wangchen staggered slightly upon hearing this.


    "Dead? How did you kill Wei Ying Lan?" Wangchen demanded in shock.


    "She self-destructed her Nascent Soul," Han Ji Guang replied.


    Self-destructed her Nascent Soul? Han Chuang looked incredulous. This woman self-destructed her Nascent Soul? Why would she do that?


    Wangchen, however, wavered again.


    "Emperor Daguang, since Wei Ying Lan is dead, there''s no reason for me to stay here any longer. I must take my leave!" Wangchen said urgently.


    "Huh?" The others were taken aback.


    Without further exnation, Wangchen turned and flew away, not even bidding farewell to his brother Han Chuang.


    It seemed more like an escape.


    Seeing Wangchen fly off without even a word, Han Chuang''s face darkened. Watching Wangchen recede into the distance, he finally decided to follow.


    The two flew swiftly,nding on a high mountain far from the Daguang Dynasty.


    "Wangchen, what are you doing? Have you forgotten our master''s orders?" Han Chuang shouted.


    "Brother, I advise you to flee, flee now, or it will be toote," Wangchen replied, his voice filled with tension.


    "What''s going on? What has scared you so much?" Han Chuang asked, perplexed.


    "Zhongshan. Zhongshan no longer has any weaknesses. With Wei Ying Lan''s death, he has no vulnerabilities left," Wangchen exined.


    "So what if he has no weaknesses?" Han Chuang scoffed.


    "No weaknesses mean he''s invincible. Wei Ying Lan''s death has shattered the sky. Zhongshan cherished her most, and now that Han Ji Guang forced her to death, Zhongshan won''t rest. A terrifying vengeance is about to begin," Wangchen said, shaking his head.


    "What are you afraid of? No matter how strong he is, he''s still just at the Imperial Peak Realm," Han Chuang retorted dismissively.


    "You don''t understand, you don''t understand! This time is different. I can only tell you that the Daguang Dynasty is doomed, and anyone associated with it is doomed too. If you only judge Zhongshan by his cultivation level, you''re making a grave mistake. An enraged Zhongshan is unpredictable and could do anything," Wangchen said with a hint of fear.


    Wangchen remembered how terrifying Zhongshan could be. When he was young, and Zhongshan had just adopted him, there had been another boy. At that time, Zhongshan was only at the acquired stage, and five innate-level experts had traveled together. One of them killed the other boy, who was also a newly adopted son of Zhongshan. Despite the rtively shallow bond, Zhongshan, driven by his protective nature, had killed all five innate experts before the boy''s seventh-day memorial.


    Ying Lan is dead. How much emotion had Zhongshan entrusted to her? Dead? Forced to her death like this?


    Wangchen was certain��Han Ji Guang was doomed, and so was the Daguang Dynasty.


    "Senior brother, you''re on your own," Wangchen said onest time.


    With that, Wangchen turned and flew away quickly. He couldn''t stay in the Daguang Dynasty for even a moment longer. He was terrified��terrified of the vengeful Zhongshan!


    The lingering fear drove Wangchen to flee with all his might.


    Watching Wangchen''s retreating figure, Han Chuang sneered coldly. "Coward!"


    Then Han Chuang turned and flew back.


    He was confident in his near-Imperial Realm strength. The Daguang Dynasty had three peak Imperial Realm experts, plus Han Ji Guang. Unless an entire Celestial Dynasty army marched against them, how could they possibly lose?


    Zhongshan returned home.


    Half a monthter, Zhongshan issued a promation of war:


    Han Ji Guang, who killed my dearest, from this day forth, the Great Zhen Dynasty and Han Ji Guang are irreconcble. Zhongshan and Han Ji Guang have a feud as deep as the sea, and we cannot live under the same sky. Zhongshan will avenge his kin, exterminating Han Ji Guang''s nine ns with the punishment of a thousand cuts.


    When my army reaches the cities of Daguang, I will ughter the entire city, leaving no one alive!


    From this day forth, those who serve Han Ji Guang, die! Those who befriend Han Ji Guang, die! Those who aid Han Ji Guang, die! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill!


    This promation shocked the world.


    The promation reeked of bloodlust, with thest nine "kills" filled with endless ferocity.


    Dominance��this promation exuded immense dominance and terrifying authority. Anyone who dared to help Han Ji Guang would be killed! This was not only a promation against Han Ji Guang but also a warning to the world. Who dared to assist Han Ji Guang? Zhongshan would kill them all!


    ughter entire cities! Exterminatepletely! Leave no one alive!


    Indeed, there were a few extremely brutal dynasties in Shenzhou that would massacre entire cities after wars, but none had ever been as brazen as Zhongshan. He unabashedly announced his intent to ughter entire cities. Howwless could he be?


    The army of the Great Zhen Dynasty swept through the chaotds with a terrifying speed. Countless eyes watched, knowing that once the chaotds were pacified, the next target would be the Daguang Dynasty.


    Of course, no one knew that Zhongshan had already started targeting the Daguang Dynasty.


    The fierce and domineering promation spread quickly across the world, reaching numerous powers.


    In the Eternal Joy Dynasty, the Grand King of Daxuan looked at the message in his hand and then handed it to his chief strategist, Fan Yipin.


    "So much bloodlust!" Fan Yipin eximed.


    In the Grand Li Celestial Court, a ceremonial official reported thetest news. Zhongshan was a name known to all in the Li Fire Holy Capital. The elixir of immortality, the miraculous disy of the Phoenixes, the audacious abduction of the princess��Zhongshan''s name was as famous as Nirvana Fanchen''s in the Grand Li Celestial Court.


    But hearing Zhongshan''s promation of war, everyone was stunned. Such deep hatred, such intense murderous intent. Just from this promation, one could feel the overwhelming ferocity.


    Zhongshan''s fury and his promation of vengeance were now known far and wide, a harbinger of the bloodshed toe.

 Chapter 521: The Order of the Ten Yama Kings

    <h4>Chapter 521: The Order of the Ten Yama Kings</h4>


    In the east of Tiang Ind, within the abode of Di Xuan Sha.


    Inside a grand hall, the Wolf King Killpo stood respectfully before Di Xuan Sha.


    "Killpo, is what you say true?" Di Xuan Sha asked, his eyes fixed on Killpo with a grave expression.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. I saw it clearly. The look in Zhong Shan''s eyes was more terrifying than any feeling you''ve ever given me," Killpo replied.


    Di Xuan Sha fell silent for a moment.


    "Pupil Techniques? Zhong Shan''s bloodline shouldn''t be able to inherit Pupil Techniques. Could it be self-created?" Di Xuan Sha muttered to himself, frowning.


    Self-created Pupil Techniques? Killpo''s eyes showed confusion. Obviously, he didn''t understand what Pupil Techniques were.


    "Your Majesty, what are Pupil Techniques?" Killpo asked curiously.


    Di Xuan Sha stared at Killpo for a while.


    "Killpo, set aside your pride and follow Zhong Shan diligently from now on!" Di Xuan Sha suddenly ordered solemnly.


    "Huh? Your Majesty!" Killpo was slightly taken aback.


    "Remember, the future prosperity of the Wolf n hinges on Zhong Shan!" Di Xuan Sha said.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Killpo responded immediately.


    In the face of the Wolf n''s potential prosperity, all doubts could be set aside, and Killpo had immense trust in Di Xuan Sha. If Di Xuan Sha said it, it must be so.


    In Shenzhou, within Guangling City.


    Zhong Shan''s shadow body sat in the grand hall. These days, all information was handled by Qianyou.


    Zhong Shan''s emotions were somewhat unsettled but were gradually stabilizing. His pupils had returned to their normal state, only revealing the Reincarnation Eyes when necessary.


    Among the various armies, Mr. Corpse''s zombie legion was the most swift, the second to annihte a dynasty and return triumphant.


    As for the governance of the conquered cities, Qianyou had been continuously arranging it during this time.


    However, Mr. Corpse''s campaign was terrifying, leaving a trail of absolute death. The regions he passed through became deste, lifeless, and everything was dead and gone.


    "Your, Your Majesty, what did you just say? What is the technique you gave to Yinn''s ghost? That square ck cloth!" Mr. Corpse''s eyes nearly popped out in disbelief as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    "The Ten Halls!" Zhong Shan confirmed without a doubt.


    "The Ten, Ten Halls? The Order of the Ten Yama Kings?" Mr. Corpse eximed.


    Mr. Corpse stared at Zhong Shan in disbelief. The Ten Halls? The Ten Halls?


    "Your Majesty, is the Ten Halls from the Underworld?" Mr. Corpse immediately asked, his eyes filled with astonishment.


    "Yes, it should have drifted to the mortal realm over a thousand years ago," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Upon Zhong Shan''s confirmation, Mr. Corpse felt a mix of emotions.


    "It really is the Ten Halls, the Ten Halls!" Mr. Corpse showed a bitter smile.


    If he had known the Emperor had the Ten Halls earlier, he would have asked for it long ago. It was toote; everything was toote! Now the Ten Halls had returned to the Underworld.


    "What are the Ten Halls?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Your Majesty, I have mentioned before that Ie from the Great Thousand World," Mr. Corpse said.


    Zhong Shan stared at Mr. Corpse, prompting him to continue.


    "The Great Thousand World is divided into the Yin and Yang realms, that is, the Underworld and the Mortal Realm. Ie from the Underworld of the Great Thousand World. The Small Thousand World is quite peculiar; it also has the Yin and Yang realms. The Mortal Realm is our world, but it is very much isted from the Great Thousand World. Only by bing an immortal can one leave, and it is even harder for people from the Great Thousand World to enter. They face various restrictions. This barrier can only be broken by opening the heavens and the earth. However, the Yin realm of the Small Thousand World is different. Although it is also isted from the Great Thousand World, its barrier is much weaker. Powerful ghosts can leave without bing ghost immortals, and entering from the outside is not as difficult as entering the Mortal Realm, though it is still subject to various restrictions," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Really?" Zhong Shan''s gaze fixed on Mr. Corpse.


    "Imagine the Small Thousand World as an egg. The Mortal Realm is the upper half of the egg, and the Underworld is the lower half, except the shell of the lower half is softer," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Got it."


    "Your Majesty, are you familiar with the Ten Yama Kings?" Mr. Corpse continued.


    "I''ve seen the y statue set up the Yama Wheel Hall," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Yes, exactly. The Yama Wheel Hall is one of the Ten Halls. The Ten Halls are: Qin Guang Hall, Chu Jiang Hall, Song Emperor Hall, Five Officials Hall, Yama Hall, Bian Cheng Hall, Taishan Hall, Capital Hall, Equality Hall, and Yama Wheel Hall. The Yama Wheel Hall is located at the edge of the Underworld of our Small Thousand World. Yama Wheel Hall, the Yama King!" Mr. Corpse introduced.


    "The Ten Yama Kings?" Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    "Yes, the Ten Yama Kings belong to the Underworld of the Great Thousand World, not our Small Thousand World. However, the power of each Hall is no less than that of a celestial dynasty," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "I seem to remember now. In the past, when the y statue set up the Derivative Realm, the momentum of the Yama Wheel Hall was not inferior to that of the Ancient Holy Capital. The Yama Wheel Hall is at least a force of the same level as the Ancient Holy Capital," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Indeed, each Hall''s strength is no less than a celestial dynasty. But, Your Majesty, do you know how precious the Ten Yama Kings Order you gave to ''Yinn'' is?" Mr. Corpse asked, staring at Zhong Shan.


    "How precious?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "With just that Ten Yama Kings Order, one canmand all ten Yama Halls. The Ten Yama Kings must obey the order of the Ten Yama Kings Order. In the past, countless peerless experts fought for this order, leading to untold bloodshed. Many peerless experts died because of it. Eventually, the Ten Yama Kings Order disappeared. Some thought it was taken by a peerless expert, others believed the Ten Yama Kings destroyed it. Who would have thought it would end up in your hands? And then you gave it away. This...this..." Mr. Corpse was at a loss for words.


    As someone from the Great Thousand World, Mr. Corpse naturally knew about the earth-shattering events there. The Ten Yama Kings Order was one such event that shook the Great Thousand World.


    Who would have thought it would end up in Zhong Shan''s hands? And then be given away by Zhong Shan?


    Even though Mr. Corpse had seen many great things in the Great Thousand World, he was deeply impressed by Zhong Shan''s grand demeanor. The Ten Yama Kings Order, which countless peerless experts fought over, was casually given away by the Emperor?


    If only I had known, I would have asked for it earlier. Whether the Emperor would have given it to me or not, having the support of the Ten Yama Kings would be invaluable.


    The powerful Ten Yama Kings are an unstoppable force, able to overpower ten celestial dynasties.


    Looking at Zhong Shan''s calm face, Mr. Corpse didn''t know what to say. This Emperor had so many strange things. Even the items he casually gave away were so extraordinary. If only he could give me one such item, how wonderful it would be!


    At the same time, Mr. Corpse felt increasingly close to Zhong Shan, and his loyalty to Zhong Shan grew stronger.


    Zhong Shan took a long breath.


    The Ten Yama Kings Order? Since it''s so powerful, that''s good. The y statue said that when a person first bes a ghost, they are the weakest type of ghost, extremely fragile. Now, with the Ten Halls, Yinn should be able to grow quickly.


    I''ve heard that surviving in the Underworld is very harsh. I hope Yinn can endure it.


    "Mr. Corpse, please continue your conquest and expedite the chaos in thisnd," Zhong Shan said, looking at Mr. Corpse.


    "Yes!" Mr. Corpse immediately replied.


    Had it been before learning about the Ten Yama Kings Order, Mr. Corpse might have had someints. But now, he had no grievances at all. Zhong Shan was worth risking his life for.


    After Mr. Corpse left.


    "Are you okay?" Qianyou gentlyforted.


    Qianyou knew very well how much Yinn''s death had affected Zhong Shan and how deeply he was hurt. She hadn''t dared to console him until recently, when Zhong Shan''s mood had slightly improved, and only then did she softlyfort him.


    Holding Qianyou''s hand lightly, Zhong Shan felt a wave of warmth in his heart.


    "I''m sorry," Zhong Shan apologized.


    Qianyou, however, smiled. Not because of Zhong Shan''s apology, but because she sensed that the strong and confident Zhong Shan had returned.


    "When will the troops move against the Daguan Territory?" Qianyou asked.


    Hearing the mention of Daguan Territory, Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold again. Han Jiguang!


    "The Daguan Dynasty? I''ve already sent someone there. Here, ry the orders: the five legions should quickly recover the chaotds, then prepare the troops and march north to ughter the cities!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Alright!" Qianyou nodded at Zhong Shan.


    Although she didn''t know when Zhong Shan had sent people to the Daguan Territory, she didn''t ask in detail. As long as Zhong Shan was okay, nothing else mattered more.


    Another few months passed.


    The chaotds were officially unified under the Great Ying Dynasty.


    It happened so quickly��less than three years. In less than three years, the Great Ying Dynasty had unified the chaotds?


    This terrifying news spread like wildfire in all directions.


    Nearby, all the dynasties turned their attention to the chaotds, to the Great Ying Dynasty.


    How strong was this dynasty? How powerful?


    Eight dynasties and nearly a hundred kingdoms were annihted in less than three years? Moreover, they provoked the Daguan Dynasty.


    The Daguan Dynasty? Once the Great Daguan Empire, the many princes of the Daguan Dynasty were wiped out, and Han Jiguang''s elite Ice Army waspletely defeated by Zhong Shan?


    Was the Great Ying Dynasty really that powerful?


    Following this, themanders of the Great Ying Dynasty''s legions were exposed to the world.


    Lin Xiao, Yi Yan, Mr. Corpse, Shui Wuhen, Shui Jing, and the recently deceased Wei Yinn.


    These six legions were terrifying. Yi Yan was already renowned and respected, but the abilities disyed by these individuals in the first battle of the Great Ying Dynasty were no less than Yi Yan''s. Did the Great Ying Dynasty really have such talented individuals?


    The Zombie Legion, for the first time, footage of the Zombie Legion was transmitted everywhere. Memory crystals recorded the terrifying nature of the Zombie Legion, and many dynasties were contemting strategies��how to face the Zombie Legion if it came to that?


    Meanwhile, everyone was focused on the promation of war from Zhong Shan��a deration filled with deep-seated hatred.


    Great Ying Dynasty vs. Daguan Dynasty? A dynasty with the power of an empire? Was Zhong Shan really going to confront them head-on?


    Anticipation soared. Countless dynasties across Shenzhou were eagerly awaiting, waiting for Zhong Shan to reveal his ferocious power!

 Chapter 522: Rivers of Blood

    <h4>Chapter 522: Rivers of Blood</h4>


    The Great Ying Dynasty''s campaign shocked the entire world.


    In just three years, they reimed the chaotds from an external base without any support��an absolute show of strength.


    Countless people spected whether the Great Ying Dynasty had already ascended to imperial status. After all, thebined fate of the eight major dynasties and nearly a hundred kingdoms should be enough to elevate them.


    Indeed, above Xuankin on Tiang Ind, the umted fate had reached a staggering level. Layers uponyers of golden light bathed the city, making it shine brilliantly every day.


    Under normal circumstances, they would only need to find a celestial imperial seal to merge with the royal seal, perform some specific rituals, and then they could consolidate the fate into a golden dragon, elevating the dynasty to an empire.


    But Zhong Shan had no need for that. With the most advanced cultivation method for dynasties, "Forging the Heavenly Court," he didn''t need a celestial imperial seal. Now, all he needed was to gather more fate and follow the method in "Forging the Heavenly Court" to nurture a golden dragon of fate amidst the heavenly fortune.


    Clearly, nurturing a golden dragon of fate was much more difficult than having one automatically born from a celestial imperial seal. However, once the empire was established, Zhong Shan''s empire would be far more powerful than most, potentially even rivaling the heavenly court.


    After reiming the chaotds, numerous decrees were issued. The ministers began organizing the region. Thanks to the frequent imperial examinations held by the Great Ying Dynasty, they had umted a vast amount of talent, enabling them to swiftly consolidate their control over the chaotds.


    With everything stabilized, the next challenge was facing the Daguan Dynasty.


    This war attracted immense attention.


    Both sides were dynasties, but exceptionally powerful ones. The strength of the Great Ying Dynasty was undisputed, and the Daguan Dynasty was once an empire.


    The Ice Army had been destroyed, but did Han Jiguang only have this one elite force? If that were the case, he wouldn''t have achieved his former dominance.


    In Guangling City, Zhong Shan addressed his troops. The five major generals stood respectfully.


    "The Daguan Dynasty, twenty-five cities��massacre them!" Zhong Shan''s words were brief.


    "Massacre������������������������������������������������������������������������"


    The troops roared in unison.


    Zhong Shan''s war promation had already spread across thend. Anyone still wishing to align with Han Jiguang would face death. If themon people chose not to leave the cities, Zhong Shan could not be med.


    The promation, filled with nine consecutive "kill" orders, made everything clear. Those who stayed were choosing to die with Han Jiguang.


    The Great Ying Dynasty mobilized.


    Starting from Guangling City, they deployed ten million soldiers to capture twenty-five celestial cities of the Daguan Dynasty. Small mortal towns were not included.


    Various forces and spies eagerly followed the battle, tracking every move.


    This war drew unprecedented attention, as both dynasties were immensely powerful, and their leaders were prominent figures in Shenzhou. Naturally, it captivated many.


    A feud of life and death, coupled with mysterious legions.


    The vast army split into six divisions, advancing north from the chaotds to besiege cities.


    Zhong Shan''s central army was supported by the other divisions on both sides, always ready to respond.


    Zhong Shan''s promation was clear:plete annihtion, leaving no survivors. Rivers of blood!


    Mr. Corpse''s zombie legion was unmatched. Despite their low individual strength, their sheer numbers were overwhelming.


    After capturing a few small towns, the army finally faced a celestial city.


    On the city wall, themanders looked at the overwhelming zombie horde approaching, their faces showing fear. The zombies had arrived.


    The zombies did not attack the city immediately. Instead, they surrounded itpletely, leaving no escape route. In each direction, powerful zombies stood guard, ensuring that even the strongest warriors could not flee.


    After surrounding the city, a few zombies flew into the city. Despite the countless arrows raining down from the city walls, as long as their heads were intact, even if their limbs were severed, they showed no sign of pain.


    Although most zombies were blocked, as long as a few entered the city, all hope was lost.


    The zombies bit anyone they encountered, turning them into zombies as well. In just two days, over half the city''s poption had be zombies.


    Countless people tried to escape, only to find more zombies outside.


    "We surrender! We surrender!"


    "Don''t kill me, I surrender!"


    Countless soldiers knelt in terror, begging for mercy.


    Mr. Corpse watched coldly, with no intention of stopping the zombies. Kill, kill, kill!


    Mr. Corpse knew very well the depth of Zhong Shan''s murderous intent. Who would dare to defy the emperor now? Even if Zhong Shan wasn''t angry, Mr. Corpse had no mercy to spare.


    Lin Xiao was the same. With a powerful assault and hidden forces within the city, he captured arge celestial city. Most of the soldiers were killed or wounded. A small number knelt, begging for mercy.


    Seeing the ten thousand soldiers begging for their lives, Lin Xiao felt no pity. Zhong Shan cherished Yinn, and so did Lin Xiao. Yinn had grown up under his watch. These people chose to stand with Han Jiguang, so why should he show them mercy? Who would show mercy to Yinn?


    "Kill!" Lin Xiaomanded, his eyes wide with anger.


    "Wait!" Suddenly, a loud voice interrupted.


    A bald monk flew over.


    "Who are you?" Lin Xiao red at the monk.


    "I am Cheng Guang, the abbot of the Guanglu Temple in this city. Heaven cherishes all life. General, these people are no longer resisting. Why create more bloodshed?" the monk pleaded.


    "Bloodshed? Cherishing life? Hmph, monk, you think you can earn merit from me? You''re too naive!" Lin Xiao sneered.


    Ignoring the monk, Lin Xiao waved his hand, and ten thousand heads rolled to the ground.


    "You!" The monk''s eyes shed with anger.


    "You''re the abbot of this city? Hmph, the Great Ying Emperor made it clear in the war promation: anyone who stands with Han Jiguang will be killed!" Lin Xiao''s eyes burned with fury.


    "Kill!" Lin Xiao ordered.


    A hundred piercing arrows shot through the monk. Even in death, the monk couldn''t understand why this general was so ruthless. Even the demons of the Asura Realm were not as cruel. Was he really going to massacre the entire city, turning it into a river of blood?


    "Massacre the entire city, leave no one alive!" Lin Xiaomanded.


    "Yes!" the soldiers responded immediately.


    Then, the city was filled with the sound of wailing and crying.


    War was inherently cruel, but a war filled with hatred was even more so. Kill, kill, kill!


    The Great Ying Dynasty''s army was extremely ruthless. Wherever they went, rivers of blood flowed.


    Spies from various forces were stunned, witnessing the brutality of the army. They left no survivors. Any of Han Jiguang''s soldiers were killed. The civilians who didn''t flee beforehand also faced death.


    The Great Ying Dynasty showed no mercy, ensuring that anyone aligned with Han Jiguang paid the ultimate price.


    Zhong Shan intended to drench the entire Daguan Dynasty in blood.


    The five main legions, each responsible for one route, advanced like a flood, leaving rivers of blood in their wake. Resistance was futile. Death was the only oue.


    Zhong Shan''s army descended like a gue of death, sparing no one.


    Of course, wares with casualties. Apart from Mr. Corpse''s zombie legion, the other four legions suffered losses.


    As for Zhong Shan''s central legion, their conquest of a city was swift. In fact, it wasn''t even a conquest��the city gates opened as they approached.


    The Shadow Guards and Jinyiwei! These two immensely powerful departments of the Great Ying Dynasty''s imperial guard had already taken action.


    The Shadow Guards dealt with the powerful figures early on, while the Jinyiwei were ruthless, leaving no survivors in their wake.


    The army paused instead of continuing their assault.


    The five legions all converged at Zhong Shan''s location.


    "Reporting to Your Majesty! No survivors along my route!" Lin Xiao reported.


    "Reporting to Your Majesty! No survivors along my route!" Shui Wuhen reported.


    Each of the five legions reported the same.


    "Rest for ten days, then continue north!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" the soldiers responded immediately.


    The legionmanders then dispersed.


    "Sir, why leave no one alive? Why create such a great sin?" Tiexue asked Yi Yan.


    Tiexue had fought in countless battles, but never so bloodily, so brutally. The principle of not harming civilians was ingrained in his mind. This sudden mass ughter was difficult for him to ept.


    "Sin? This is His Majesty''s brilliance!" Yi Yan replied.


    "Huh?" Tiexue stared in confusion.


    "This massacre has multiple benefits. First, intimidation. After this battle, do you think the people in the next cities will dare to stay?" Yi Yan asked.


    "Not all, but most will flee!" Tiexue admitted.


    "Correct. Most will flee. Daguan can''t stop them from fleeing, or it will cause unrest. Letting them flee spreads fear. One person flees, then a group, then more. When most of the civilians are gone, how much fighting spirit will the soldiers have? Their morale will crumble, intimidating Daguan!" Yi Yan exined.


    "The soldiers might also flee?" Tiexue pondered.


    "Yes, the soldiers might flee too. It also deters those thinking of aiding Daguan. If we ughter civilians, what mercy will we show to them? This intimidates surrounding forces." Yi Yan continued.


    "Indeed," Tiexue nodded.


    "Second is revenge. This method not only weakens Han Jiguang militarily but also strikes at his heart. Even if he has elite forces, they won''t perform at their best in subsequent battles. Victory is assured!" Yi Yan stated.


    Tiexue looked at Yi Yan in surprise. There were so many advantages to this massacre?


    "Third is istion. By encircling Han Jiguang and preventing his escape, we force him to face his downfall day by day. Defeated by the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, he could strategize an escape. But ughtered so ruthlessly by the Great Ying Dynasty, he can''t flee. If he runs, he can never establish a new dynasty. The world won''t ept him. He won''t ept himself. With an emperor''s heart, would he run? He can''t escape!" Yi Yan concluded confidently.

 Chapter 523: Deployment of the Elite

    <h4>Chapter 523: Deployment of the Elite</h4>


    The Great Ying Dynasty''s army had indeed massacred the cities.


    When news of this reached various factions, they were stunned. Had Zhong Shan truly embarked on the path of a tyrant?


    Historically, there had been dynasties thatmitted widespread massacres, but they neversted long. Such acts were widely condemned. Heavy-handed ughter by an emperor could lead to resistance among the popce, destabilizing the nation and hindering its expansion.


    Several brutal dynasties had emerged across Shenzhou, and they too had massacred cities. However, none had been as extreme as Zhong Shan. Those dynasties did not massacre every city; they selectively ughtered to achieve specific goals. But Zhong Shan''s approach? Complete annihtion of every city?


    Men, women, the elderly, and children��all killed. Wherever the army passed, ally dead.


    "Such bloodshed!"


    This was the first reaction from everyone who received the news. Reading the war promation, they had already felt the ruthlessness. But that was just a promation. Now, it was reality. Zhong Shan proved that his promation was not an exaggeration. It was not meant to intimidate, but a statement of fact.


    The strategists of various dynasties were left in deep silence upon receiving this news.


    At the same time, the cities of the Daguan Dynasty received news of the massacres.


    Massacres? Total extermination?


    Citizens trembled at the news.


    Death? Recently, people had seen Zhong Shan''s war promation but dismissed it with augh, trusting the Daguan Dynasty. They thought the Great Ying Dynasty was just a desperate dynasty seeking attention.


    The nine consecutive "kill"mands had been met with disdain.


    Except for a very few who left, most continued their daily lives, believing that even if the Great Ying Dynasty captured the city, they would just be its citizens.


    Who would have thought there would be a massacre?


    The news of the massacre spread like wildfire through the cities.


    The old war promation resurfaced in everyone''s minds, clearer than ever in the face of life and death:


    "When the army reaches the cities of Daguan, it will massacre the entire city! No one will be spared!


    From this day forth, those who serve Han the Traitor shall die!


    Those who befriend Han the Traitor shall die!


    Those who aid Han the Traitor shall die!


    Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill!"


    The promation, like a nightmare, terrified many to their core.


    The promation had stated it inly: when the army reaches the cities of Daguan, it will massacre the entire city! No one will be spared!


    A terrifying threat��not a threat, but a fact.


    Staying in the city meant certain death.


    Someone was the first to rush back home, packing everything they could into storage bracelets and fleeing the city as if escaping a gue.


    When there is a first, there will be a second!


    Fight against the Great Ying Dynasty''s invasion? To hell with that! What if you die?


    The timid and fearful immediately abandoned such thoughts. Escape, escape quickly!


    As the fearful fled, more followed. Even those who initially hesitated found themselves infected by the growing panic.


    Seeing the majority flee in terror, the fear became contagious, quickly spreading.


    Thus, city after city emptied as the popce fled in a desperate bid for survival, leaving the Daguan Dynasty increasingly isted and vulnerable to the advancing forces of the Great Ying Dynasty.


    The Great Ying Dynasty''s army had indeed massacred the cities.


    Various factions were stunned upon receiving this news. Was Zhong Shan truly on the path of tyranny?


    Historically, there had been dynasties thatmitted widespread massacres, but they neversted long. Such acts were widely condemned. Heavy-handed ughter by an emperor could lead to resistance among the popce, destabilizing the nation and hindering its expansion.


    Several brutal dynasties had emerged across Shenzhou, and they too had massacred cities. However, none had been as extreme as Zhong Shan. Those dynasties did not massacre every city; they selectively ughtered to achieve specific goals. But Zhong Shan''s approach? Complete annihtion of every city?


    Men, women, the elderly, and children��all killed. Wherever the army passed, ally dead.


    "Such bloodshed!"


    This was the first reaction from everyone who received the news. Reading the war promation, they had already felt the ruthlessness. But that was just a promation. Now, it was reality. Zhong Shan proved that his promation was not an exaggeration. It was not meant to intimidate, but a statement of fact.


    The strategists of various dynasties were left in deep silence upon receiving this news.


    At the same time, the cities of the Daguan Dynasty received news of the massacres.


    Massacres? Total extermination?


    Citizens trembled at the news.


    Death? Recently, people had seen Zhong Shan''s war promation but dismissed it with augh, trusting the Daguan Dynasty. They thought the Great Ying Dynasty was just a desperate dynasty seeking attention.


    The nine consecutive "kill"mands had been met with disdain.


    Except for a very few who left, most continued their daily lives, believing that even if the Great Ying Dynasty captured the city, they would just be its citizens.


    Who would have thought there would be a massacre?


    The news of the massacre spread like wildfire through the cities.


    The old war promation resurfaced in everyone''s minds, clearer than ever in the face of life and death:


    "When the army reaches the cities of Daguan, it will massacre the entire city! No one will be spared!


    From this day forth, those who serve Han the Traitor shall die!


    Those who befriend Han the Traitor shall die!


    Those who aid Han the Traitor shall die!


    Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill!"


    The promation, like a nightmare, terrified many to their core.


    The promation had stated it inly: when the army reaches the cities of Daguan, it will massacre the entire city! No one will be spared!


    A terrifying threat��not a threat, but a fact.


    Staying in the city meant certain death.


    Someone was the first to rush back home, packing everything they could into storage bracelets and fleeing the city as if escaping a gue.


    When there is a first, there will be a second!


    Fight against the Great Ying Dynasty''s invasion? To hell with that! What if you die?


    The timid and fearful immediately abandoned such thoughts. Escape, escape quickly!


    As the fearful fled, more followed. Even those who initially hesitated found themselves infected by the growing panic.


    Seeing the majority flee in terror, the fear became contagious, quickly spreading.


    Thus, city after city emptied as the popce fled in a desperate bid for survival, leaving the Daguan Dynasty increasingly isted and vulnerable to the advancing forces of the Great Ying Dynasty.


    Only those deeply loyal to the Daguan Dynasty refused to leave. They believed that Daguan would not fall and they would not die. Running away? They would rather fight the Great Ying Dynasty to the death.


    As a result, nearly half the poption of each city left.


    The Daguan Dynasty was not idle either, dispatchingrge forces to encircle and attack Zhong Shan''s army.


    Encircle and attack? Zhong Shan''s ten million strong army was mostly together, constituting half of the chaotd''s forces. How could the scattered forces of the Daguan Dynasty encircle Zhong Shan? Moreover, Zhong Shan had a group of powerful legionmanders by his side. It was uncertain who would encircle whom.


    Attacking the Great Ying Dynasty''s capital to save their own? Han Jiguang wanted to, but the Great Ying Dynasty''s capital was too far away, separated by countless mountains and rivers. They even had to cross the sea!


    Thus, in this war, without deploying his elite forces, Han Jiguang was doomed to passive defense.


    Ten dayster, Zhong Shan''s army moved again. After nearly a month of fighting, rivers of blood flowed once more as they massacred another city.


    The bold citizens of the Daguan Dynasty finally sumbed to fear. They were indeed facing a demon army.


    Twelve celestial cities had fallen. Nearly half of the Daguan Dynasty''s cities had been captured.


    The people of the Daguan Dynasty were unsettled. Nearly half the dynasty''s territory was lost, with close to two hundred million people dead. Rivers of blood flowed, dyeing half the sky red.


    The remaining citizens fled in increasing numbers, and even the city guards dared not stay. It was too terrifying.


    Of course, Zhong Shan''s ten million strong army was reduced to eight million, suffering heavy casualties.


    Zhong Shan ordered another rest period.


    In the Daguan imperial city, Tianguang City, the court was in session.


    Many officials were anxious and fearful. Zhong Shan was too terrifying.


    "Big brother, Zhong Shan is too arrogant. What should we do? Let''s fight him, send strong warriors directly to their central camp!" Han Chuang shouted.


    The officials shrank back in fear. Attack Zhong Shan''s central camp? Dream on! Hundreds of thousands of piercing arrows would turn you to dust. Go ahead if you want.


    "Your Majesty, we should retreat for now and find an opportunity to rise againter," one timid official suggested.


    "Yes, Your Majesty, the Great Ying army is too fierce. In just three months, we''ve lost half our territory!" another fearful official added.


    "Idiots, cowards! We must fight the Great Ying Dynasty!" a hot-blooded general roared.


    On the throne, Han Jiguang watched coldly. Despite the uproar in the court, he remained calm. The former emperor''sposure was far beyond that of these simple-minded officials.


    "Rest assured! I have a n for the Great Ying Dynasty. Civil officials, calm the people and stabilize morale. Military officials, focus on the army and maintain discipline," Han Jiguang ordered.


    "Yes!" the officials responded immediately.


    Having followed Han Jiguang for many years, he was their pir of support. No matter how panicked they were, his words always reassured them.


    After the court session.


    "Big brother, what''s your n?" Han Chuang asked immediately.


    Han Jiguang looked at Han Chuang with little enthusiasm and said, "I have already sent troops. You need not worry."


    "Sent troops? But the Ice Army has beenpletely wiped out. Do you have other forces?" Han Chuang asked, puzzled.


    "Correct, the Ice Army is merely a human army," Han Jiguang said.


    "A human army? What do you mean?" Han Chuang asked, puzzled.


    Just then, a man in white rushed into the hall and knelt on the ground.


    "Outrageous! Don''t you know the rules?" Han Chuang turned and angrily scolded.


    "I told him he didn''t need to report," Han Jiguang said, giving Han Chuang a cold nce.


    Han Chuang fell silent, looking slightly embarrassed.


    "Did you find out?" Han Jiguang asked.


    "Your Majesty, we have found the birth dates and times of Lin Xiao and Shui Wuhen. However, we couldn''t find the birth dates of Zhong Shan, Yi Yan, Shui Jing, and Mr. Corpse," the man in white reported.


    "How is that possible? Yi Yan, Shui Jing, and Mr. Corpse have mysterious origins, so it''s understandable that we can''t find their birth dates. But why can''t we find Zhong Shan''s? Isn''t he from Tiang Ind?" Han Jiguang said, dissatisfied.


    "Your Majesty, we have done our best!" the man in white replied, handing over a scroll.


    "Very well, you may leave," Han Jiguang said, taking the scroll with a sigh.


    The scroll contained the birth dates of Lin Xiao and Shui Wuhen.


    "Big brother, why do you need their birth dates? For a curse technique? Is the Crystal Old Demon here?" Han Chuang asked excitedly.


    Han Jiguang nced at Han Chuang but didn''t deny it.


    Zhong Shan''s second city massacre!


    Following the massacre, Zhong Shan was naturallybeled as a peerless demon, but he didn''t care at all.


    In Zhong Shan''s central military tent.


    All the legionmanders were present. Zhong Shan held a letter in his hand, reading it carefully.


    "Han Jiguang''s trump card has appeared!" Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "What is it?" Yi Yan asked.


    Zhong Shan handed over the letter, which was passed around among themanders.


    "A single person? Just one person?" Shui Wuhen said in surprise.


    One person as a trump card? What was the meaning of this? Sending one person to stop our army? Ridiculous! An absolute joke!


    Themanders initiallyughed, but theirughter ceased when they saw Mr. Corpse''s expression.


    Wasn''t Mr. Corpse also just one person? Yet, a single person had formed a zombie legion. Although Mr. Corpse was only at the peak of the Integration stage, who dared to underestimate him?


    "The person has arrived at Liuhe City. Your Majesty, allow me to probe his strength," Mr. Corpse suggested.


    Facing Han Jiguang''s trump card, Zhong Shan didn''t underestimate it. This trump card had been hidden deeper than the Ice Army, indicating it had extraordinary power. Sending Mr. Corpse was a good idea. At least, Mr. Corpse''s safety was assured.


    "Our army is still resting, so let Mr. Corpse go ahead. Keep us updated on Liuhe City''s situation at all times!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Mr. Corpse immediately responded and then left.


    After Mr. Corpse left, Zhong Shan looked at Yi Yan.


    "The Daguan Empire was once close to the Dayu Empire. Do you know anything about this person?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I''m not sure. Han Jiguang has hidden him very well. He only exposed the Ice Army because it was toorge to conceal. This person must be even more formidable. Han Jiguang is a cunning strategist. If he dares to send someone, he must be very confident. Mr. Corpse''s zombie legion is incredibly powerful, but if this person dares toe, he must be no easy opponent. We should be ready to support Mr. Corpse," Yi Yan analyzed.


    "Yi Yan, hear mymand!"


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    "Imand you to lead the Third Legion to support Mr. Corpse and annihte the invader," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "At once!"

 Chapter 524: Devouring the World by Insects

    <h4>Chapter 524: Devouring the World by Insects</h4>


    Liuhe City! A few days ago, a mysterious man in gray robes arrived unexpectedly. His face concealed behind the curtain of his hood, he presented a golden token upon arrival.


    Immediately, the Lord of Liuhe City stood respectfully.


    "The Imperial Seal! Its sight is as rare as the cold northern lights!"


    With the appearance of the gray-robed man, control of Liuhe City swiftly shifted to him.


    Mr. Shi led a massive legion of zombies, pouring forth like a tide across the mountains and valleys, their figures slumped with a resentment-filled aura. The surroundings outside Liuhe City turned deathly silent.


    On the city walls, a tremor spread as the terrifying zombie legion approached��a force dreaded above all by the legions of Zhongshan. Massacre the city? Some could face life and death, but not the lifeless, biting zombies that now encroached.


    Facing death, being killed and done with it was one thing, but to be transformed into these zombies��creatures that bite on sight��sent chills through countless hearts.


    Even from a distance, the oppressive aura of death was palpable. Soldiers on the city walls quivered with fear.


    "Mr. Chong, what... what do we do?" The former city lord gazed at the gray-robed man in terror.


    Mr. Chong, the ace envoy summoned by the imperial seal, replied coldly, "Why panic?" A chilling air swept towards the city lord.


    "Y-yes!" The city lord trembled in fear.


    Mr. Chong gazed coldly at the sea of zombies before him, his demeanor not that of fear but of excitement.


    "You three stay, everyone else, leave!" Mr. Chongmanded.


    "Yes!" The city lord immediatelyplied.


    With a wave of his hand, all the soldiers retreated from the city walls, leaving only the city lord and his two guards. Confused, the three men watched as Mr. Chong suddenly appeared before them.


    "Bang~~~ Bang~~~~"


    With a single blow from Mr. Chong, both guards were instantly killed.


    "Mr. Chong, what is this?" The city lord eximed in shock.


    "I need bodies!" Mr. Chong replied curtly.


    Upon hearing this, the city lord was astonished. He stepped aside, no longer daring to speak. Just needing bodies, Mr. Chong had killed two men��this Mr. Chong was too terrifying.


    Mr. Chong casually extended his hand, and the city lord noticed several ck insects suddenly flying out from Mr. Chong''s sleeve.


    These... insects? Insects hidden in Mr. Chong''s sleeve?


    As the city lord watched in amazement, the dozen ck insects suddenly rushed towards the two corpses on the ground. Clearly visible, the insects bit holes in the corpses'' faces and burrowed into their skin. Burrowing into the bodies?


    Witnessing this scene, the city lord was stunned. What kind of insects were these?


    Momentster, as the zombie legion drew nearer, the city lord grew more and more panicked.


    After a stick of incense burned down, the city lord was horrified to see the bodies on the ground seeminglye to life, their skin rapidly bulging and moving.


    "Come out!" Mr. Chongmanded.


    "Bang~~~ Bang~~~~"


    The skins of the two corpses burst open suddenly. Inside, all flesh and blood had vanished, leaving behind only eerie white bones. Internally, the bones were filled with countless ck insects. What had entered as just a dozen insects now numbered tens of thousands, even hundreds of thousands.


    The city lord staggered back in terror.


    The city lord staggered back in fear, step by step.


    "These dozen or so insects... after eating the flesh of the corpses, they multiplied into so many? What are these insects? Too terrifying, too terrifying!"


    In an instant, the skin on the corpses vanished, leaving behind just piles of white bones.


    The city lord stared at the endless ck insects, their shock greater than that of the countless zombies in the distance. It was too terrifying.


    "What in the world are these?"


    A chill ran down the city lord''s entire body.


    With a wave of his hand, Mr. Chong sent millions of ck insects rushing towards the distant zombie army.


    Endless bodies, endless insects.


    The two forces shed.


    The zombie legion versus the insect legion!


    A battle of infinite terror unfolded.


    The densely packed insects dispersed, bing inconspicuous at first nce. Only the city lord knew that these seemingly inconspicuous insects, upon encountering zombies, would continue to divide and multiply endlessly.


    Mr. Shi stood in the rear, apanied by sharp scouts who continuously ryed frontline intelligence back to Zhongshan.


    Below Liuhe City, Mr. Shi gazed towards the distant city, not seeing the scattered small insects.


    Until, until the army was only five li away from Liuhe City, a mutation urred.


    At the very front, the foremost row of zombies suddenly turnedpletely ck, as if their bodies had transformed into flowing ck liquid. It wasn''t ck liquid, but insects��countless insects covered the zombies from head to toe.


    The horrifying insects devoured all the flesh and blood from the zombies. Suddenly exploding apart, they surged towards more zombies.


    The foremost zombies instantly turned into piles of white bones, copsing to the ground.


    "Huh?" A scout suddenly eximed in astonishment.


    Mr. Shi''s expression also tightened.


    With a beckoning gesture, dozens of insects from afar immediately responded.


    One of the insects crawled onto a scout.


    "Ah!" The scout yelled angrily.


    The insect had actually bitten through his skin. With a surge of true energy, the scout shook the insect to death.


    "Corpse-eating insects?" Mr. Shi eximed in surprise.


    "Hahahaha!"


    On the city tower, Mr. Chong burst into heartyughter.


    Because on the battlefield, the front-line zombies had all turned into skeletons,pletely consumed. Meanwhile, the terrifying insects multiplied increasingly, filling the sky with a dense, ck mass.


    "Mr. Shi, I need to report the situation to His Majesty. Is there anything you want me to convey?" The scout quickly asked.


    The scout also recognized the threat. These insects seemed like natural enemies of the zombies��devouring and relentlessly multiplying. It was too terrifying, too terrifying. At this rate, the front-line zombies had already been devoured, and it was only a matter of time before the rear zombies met the same fate. With the insects multiplying rapidly, what disaster would ensue if they were to attack our army? It was too terrifying, even more terrifying than the zombie legion.


    Liuhe City! A few days ago, a gray-clothed man suddenly appeared. He wore a cloak with his face hidden beneath its veil, making it impossible to discern his features.


    However, upon his arrival, the gray-clothed man presented a golden token.


    The Lord of Liuhe City immediately stood respectfully.


    "A Royal Decree Token, as chilling as seeing the aurora!"


    Instantly, the gray-clothed man took control of Liuhe City.


    Mr. Shi arrived with a massive legion of zombies, rolling in like a tide across the mountains, their figures drooping with a curseden air. Outside Liuhe City, an eerie silence fell.


    The city tower trembled as the terrifying legion of zombies approached, the most feared force among Zhongshan''s armies. Some could face life and death, but not the relentless undead, not these zombies that bit on sight. Fear gripped countless hearts.


    From afar, the deathly aura soared into the sky. Soldiers on the city tower trembled in fear.


    "Mr. Shi, what... what should we do?" The former city lord gazed fearfully at the gray-clothed man.


    Mr. Shi, the ace envoy summoned by the chilling aurora, spoke coldly. A chill swept towards the city lord.


    "Don''t panic!" Mr. Shi''s tone was icy. He directed a chilling gaze at the city lord.


    "Yes!" The city lord responded immediately, filled with dread.


    Mr. Shi looked coldly upon the countless zombies, a smile devoid of fear but filled with anticipation.


    "You three stay, everyone else, leave!" Mr. Shi ordered.


    "Yes!" The city lord immediatelyplied.


    With a wave of his hand, all the soldiers left the city tower. Only the city lord and his two guards remained.


    The three were puzzled, but Mr. Shi suddenly appeared before them.


    "Bang~~~ Bang~~~"


    With one hand each, Mr. Shi swiftly struck down the two guards.


    "Mr. Shi, what... what is this?" The city lord eximed in shock.


    "I need bodies!" Mr. Shi replied curtly.


    Upon hearing Mr. Shi''s words, the city lord was taken aback. He stepped aside immediately, too terrified to speak further. Mr. Shi casually extended his hand, and from his sleeve emerged a dozen ck insects.


    Insects? Insects hidden in Mr. Shi''s sleeves?


    As the city lord watched in astonishment, the dozen ck insects suddenly rushed towards the bodies on the ground. The insects bit through the flesh of the corpses, burrowing inside.


    Watching this scene unfold, the city lord was astounded. What kind of insects were these?


    After a short while, the bodies on the ground seemed to stir. Their skin swelled rapidly, the insects inside multiplying exponentially.


    The city lord recoiled in horror.


    Meanwhile, Mr. Shi waved his hand, and millions of ck insects surged towards the distant zombie army.


    Endless bodies, endless insects.


    The sh of the two armies began.


    The legion of zombies versus the legion of insects!


    A terrifying battle unfolded.


    The densely packed insects dispersed, bing inconspicuous, yet only the city lord knew that these inconspicuous insects, upon encountering zombies, would continue to divide and multiply endlessly.


    Mr. Shi stood behind, his scouts transmitting frontline intelligence back to Zhongshan.


    Below Liuhe City, Mr. Shi observed the distant city without spotting the scattered insects.


    Until, until the army was only five li away from Liuhe City, a mutation urred.


    At the forefront, the first row of zombies suddenly turnedpletely ck, their bodies transforming into a flowing ck liquid. Not ck liquid, but insects��countless insects covered the zombiespletely.


    The horrifying insects devoured all the flesh and blood from the zombies, then burst apart, rushing towards more zombies.


    The zombies at the forefront instantly turned into piles of white bones, copsing to the ground.


    "Huh?" A scout suddenly eximed.


    Mr. Shi''s expression tightened.


    With a beckoning gesture, dozens of insects from afar immediately responded.


    One insect crawled onto a scout.


    "Ah!" The scout yelled in anger.


    The insect had bitten through his skin. With a surge of true energy, the scout crushed the insect.


    "Corpse-eating insects?" Mr. Shi eximed in surprise.


    "Hahahaha!"


    On the city tower, Mr. Shi burst intoughter.


    Because on the battlefield, the front-line zombies had all turned into skeletons,pletely consumed. Meanwhile, the terrifying insects multiplied increasingly, filling the sky with a dense, ck mass.


    "Mr. Shi, I need to report to His Majesty. Do you have any messages?" The scout quickly asked.


    The scout also recognized the threat. These insects seemed like natural enemies of the zombies��devouring and relentlessly multiplying. It was too terrifying, even more so than the zombie legion.


    "Tell His Majesty that I will surely take Liuhe City. I cannot eliminate the swarm of insects in a short time, but inform him that these insects are called ''Corpse-eating Insects.'' His Majesty should understand," Mr. Shi said.


    "Yes!" The scout recorded with a memory crystal while responding.


    With two insects and the memory crystal in hand, the scout swiftly flew back.


    Under Mr. Shi''s control, the endless zombies continued to march forward, seemingly fearless of life and death. Of course, these zombies were already dead.


    No one knew Mr. Shi''s n.


    More and more zombies were devoured, and more and more insects emerged.


    Terrifyingly, a battle between zombies and insects unfolded outside Liuhe City.


    The battlemenced, witnessed by countless soldiers surrounding Liuhe City.


    "Roar~~~"


    The endless soldiers roared with excitement. The zombie legion had finally been restrained, finally meeting their match. The opposing army was halted, doomed, hahaha.


    Who wouldn''t be excited? Countless insects devouring everything!


    The city lord watched with excitement as the sky filled with a dark mass of insects. His initial fear had vanished, reced by excitement because these endless insects were part of his own army, fighting alongside them.


    The zombies continued to disappear, more and more transforming into white bones. Victory! Victory!


    The city lord cheered, the battle relentless. The zombies kept advancing, Mr. Shi squinted his eyes, his brow furrowing. What was happening? What was Mr. Shi nning in the distance?


    Countless insects rushed towards Mr. Shi.


    Mr. Shi grasped a bell specially used to control zombies, apanied by a group of fearful scouts. It was terrifying. Why hadn''t Mr. Shi left yet? With a flick of his hand, Mr. Shi''s body was surrounded by ayer of ss.


    Countless insects swarmed the ss, unable to enter.


    The scouts breathed a sigh of relief.


    In the distance, Mr. Shi watched coldly.


    Four hours passed.


    In those four hours, all the zombies fell, all transforming into white bones. Had the zombie legion been defeated? Completely defeated?


    "Mr. Shi, your power!" The city lord immediatelyplimented.


    Indeed, the zombie legion, which had terrified others, was so vulnerable before Mr. Shi. Mr. Shi was too powerful.


    "Well, I''m going to Zhongshan Camp. I leave the cleanup here to you!" Mr. Shi said.


    "Mr. Shi, rest assured, I''ll handle it!" The city lord patted his chest, assuring.


    Mr. Shi nodded.


    Then, Mr. Shi''s body turned pitch ck, followed by his clothes. Finally, his body suddenly transformed into countless insects, flying out and merging into the sky full of insects, covering the sky and obscuring the sun.


    The city lord stared in disbelief at the departing insects. Could Mr. Shi transform into insects? What... what was this?


    Mr. Shi merged into the swarm of insects.


    Mr. Shi didn''t use a zombie attack for this reason, so there was no attack. Which was Mr. Shi?


    Mr. Shi didn''t pursue Mr. furiously fought back.

 Chapter 525: Yi Yan vs. the Insect Army

    <h4>Chapter 525: Yi Yan vs. the Insect Army</h4>


    A bizarre scene unfolded outside the city of Liuhe. Corpses that had been dead beyond any hope of revival were standing up again.


    The sight of a zombie army was shocking enough��dead bodies that could still move? People had heard of zombies, but this was something else. Stripped of flesh, even skeletons wereing to life?


    "Damn it!" This was the exmation that everyone felt like shouting.


    In the distance, various factions'' spies, who had been lurking, swallowed nervously. The previous sight of the insect swarm consuming everything had practically announced the end of Mr. Corpse''s era. The scene of insects devouring the world would surely spread across the Divine Continent, too eerie for words.


    These spies had recorded the scene with memory crystals, and their confidence in Mr. Corpse had waned. Perhaps he was about to fall, like aet. After all, such figures were not umon in the Divine Continent.


    But now, what was happening? The spies'' eyes bulged in disbelief. What was this? A skeleton army?


    The soldiers of Liuhe City were infinitely depressed, but more than that, they were terrified. Was Mr. Corpse really as easy to deal with as they had thought?


    These skeletons could even draw long swords and attack.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A soldier shed with his de, and a skeleton instantly shattered into pieces.


    The soldier was slightly stunned, then infinitely delighted. "The skeletons move slowly, they''re cumbersome! Kill~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~."


    "They are still new skeletons, not enough yin energy. If only we were in the Underworld," Mr. Corpse sighed, shaking his head.


    A nearby scout was already dumbfounded, not hearing Mr. Corpse''sment.


    Sure enough, the soldiers of Liuhe City found the skeletons'' weakness and attacked furiously, fighting with wild abandon. They were overjoyed.


    Finally, they had a chance to charge onto the battlefield, feeling invincible. Of course, this invincibility only applied to dealing with these skeletons.


    The soldiers fought with extreme fervor, treating the skeletons as mere targets to be ughtered. After cutting down countless skeletons, they even began to fantasize about being the first to im Mr. Corpse''s head.


    "Ahwoo~"


    Amidst the chaotic battlefield, a weak, discordant sound was heard��so weak that almost no one noticed.


    A soldier had just sliced a skeleton in half when the remaining half suddenly bit into his leg.


    The soldier kicked the skeleton away, but then his eyes widened. His head drooped, and when he looked up again, his eyes had turned blood-red. In that instant, a fierce aura erupted from him. He lunged at a nearbyrade, biting into him.


    This sudden bite caused the battlefield to momentarily freeze as all the soldiers turned to look.


    "Zombie! Zombie~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A soldier screamed in terror.


    Another soldier had turned into a zombie.


    This was happening in multiple ces.


    Bitten by the skeletons, soldiers were turning into zombies. More and more zombies appeared, spreading rapidly.


    On the city wall, the city lord watched the scene below and copsed in fear.


    Mr. Corpse''s zombie army had returned��


    Following Mr. Corpse''s instructions, a scout quickly flew to the rear to report to Zhong Shan about the overwhelming and terrifying power of the ck insect swarm.


    Without any dy, the two scouts made their way back.


    On the second day of their journey, one of the scouts suddenly spotted the banner of the Second Legion.


    "Yi!"


    The two scouts quickly conferred, deciding to split up. One would head towards Yi Yan''s army while the other would continue south to the main camp, rushing to report to Zhong Shan without stopping.


    On the third day, at the central camp:


    Zhong Shan sat on his dragon throne, listening to the scout''s report and examining Mr. Corpse''s instructions and the memory crystal.


    Several other legionmanders stood in the hall.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan dismissed the scout and passed the memory crystal and the ck insect around for everyone to see.


    "Insect lineage?" Gu Qianyou raised an eyebrow as he looked at the insect.


    "You know of it?" Zhong Shan looked at Gu Qianyou.


    "Yes, it''s a type of bloodline inheritance. This lineage once had an immortal, the descendant of an immortal who controlled insects," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    Some of the others knew about it, some didn''t, but they all listened attentively as Gu Qianyou spoke.


    "These insects, as Mr. Corpse said, are called ''Corpse-Eating Ghost Insects''. They are considered low-grade insects. It is said that the ancient immortal controlled a powerful insect called the ''Six-Winged Golden Cicada''. Each cicada had the power of a Nascent Soul cultivator. With a single wave, the sky would be filled with these unstoppable insects!" Gu Qianyou exined.


    "Is it just a bloodline inheritance?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No, these insects have a king, the Insect Emperor. The insect lineage controls endless insects by merging their mind with the Insect Emperor," Gu Qianyou borated.


    "Oh? The Insect Emperor?"


    "Yes, it''s said that the insect lineage nurtures the Insect Emperor within their body, in their Purple Pce," Gu Qianyou added, with a hint of disgust on his face.


    Raising insects within one''s body? Using the body as a nest? It was indeed a repulsive idea, enough to make anyone''s skin crawl.


    "These insects are indeed troublesome!" Lin Xiaoughed.


    Yes, the insects were tiny but innumerable. How could soldiers fight them? They could only watch helplessly as the insects wreaked havoc. Once a person was bitten, they would transform into more corpse-eating ghost insects. Truly a troublesome and terrifying enemy, simr to the zombie army.


    "Your Majesty, should we avoid them?" Shui Wuhen asked.


    Crushing a small insect in his hand, Zhong Shan shook his head, "I trust Yi Yan can handle this."


    "Hmm!" The others nodded.


    "Prepare the army, continue marching north!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    Continue marching north��continue the campaign to capture cities? Themanders immediately responded, "Yes!"


    In Yi Yan''s hall:


    The scout had already left. Tie Xue stood to one side, while Yi Yan, dressed in a loose gray robe, looked more like a schr than a general.


    "Sir, what should we do? These insects are too strange, too terrifying. If they attack our army, they''ll devour us eventually. How can there be such insects? If they''re this powerful and reproduce so rapidly, couldn''t they conquer the world?" Tie Xue swallowed hard.


    "No, these are called Corpse-Eating Ghost Insects. They have an Insect Emperor, and their hierarchy is extremely strict. Without the Insect Emperor''s orders, the Corpse-Eating Ghost Insects won''t eat and will soon die. So, the idea of conquering the world with them is pure fantasy!" Yi Yan shook his head.


    "But now someone is controlling the insects. Even the zombie army might not be able to stop them! They seem like the nemesis of the zombie army," Tie Xue said, worry evident in his voice.


    "It''s not that we can''t stop them. The Corpse-Eating Ghost Insects are alreadying towards us," Yi Yan shook his head.


    "What? How can that be?" Tie Xue was surprised.


    "They naturally counter the zombie army, so they started moving south early to destroy our Da Xia army," Yi Yan said, squinting his eyes.


    "Then what should we do?" Tie Xue asked.


    "Don''t worry. Even though the insects areing south with all their might, they are still just insects and not fast enough. Bring me the map!" Yi Yanmanded.


    "Yes!" Tie Xue responded promptly.


    Yi Yan then analyzed the map carefully and quickly devised a n.


    Mr. Insect was heading south, bringing an overwhelming number of Corpse-Eating Ghost Insects with him. The sky was filled with these ck insects, a terrifying sight that seemed unstoppable. The insect lineage had been passed down through many generations, and it was only in this generation that the powerful bloodline had been activated.


    Mr. Insect had long dreamed of shaking the world, and the Da Xia Dynasty presented the perfect opportunity.


    Devour, devour everything in the Da Xia Dynasty. Eight million soldiers? He wanted none of them left.


    The swarm moved like an invincible army of death, darkening the sky and covering thend, appearing unstoppable.


    Now, all Mr. Insect needed was an opponent to devour.


    On the third morning, Mr. Insect saw his opponent��amand banner.


    "Yi!"


    Yi Yan? The Third Corps Commander of the Da Xia Dynasty? Yi Yan!


    Seeing the banner, the swarm of ck insects surged forward.


    Yi Yan''s army, with a group of Nascent Soul stage generals carrying Yi Yan''s sedan chair, fled swiftly.


    Seeing Yi Yan''s retreat, Mr. Insect naturally pursued.


    Under Yi Yan''s deliberate arrangements, Mr. Insect''s swarm deviated from their original direction.


    Half a dayter.


    At the peak of a mountain, Yi Yan stood with his hands behind his back, Tie Xue always on guard beside him.


    Looking at the distance, Tie Xue''s mouth dropped open. There were so many insects��covering the sky and blocking out the sun!


    No, that entire part of the sky was obscured, making the ground below dark as night.


    That vast darkness was rapidly approaching, flying straight towards them.


    Seeing the countless ck insects, Tie Xue felt a wave of fear. It was terrifying.


    Yi Yan remained calm throughout, watching the approaching swarm with a cold smile.


    As the insects got closer and closer, almost upon them, Yi Yan waved his hand.


    From the army behind him, countless soldiers began to cast wind spells. A powerful wind blew, preventing the insects from getting any closer.


    "Open!" Yi Yan shouted.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A massive explosion rocked the ground. Mr. Insect, amidst the swarm, sensed something amiss and looked down.


    The earth suddenly split apart, revealing a red light.


    Yang Spring? Earthly Yang Qi?

 Chapter 526: The Dark Emperor Takes Action

    <h4>Chapter 526: The Dark Emperor Takes Action</h4>


    Upon Yi Yan''smand, those hidden underground swiftly activated the Yang Spring.


    The Yang Spring, opposite of the Yin Spring, emitted Earthly Yang Qi, which was far hotter than ordinary fire. This ce had been a dormant volcano, but Yi Yan, well-versed in geography and astronomy, had long identified it and made the necessary preparations.


    He had merely been waiting for the endless Corpse-Eating Ghost Insects to enter the trap.


    Now, countless Corpse-Eating Ghost Insects had entered the predicted area. Yi Yan naturally opened the gates of hell.


    Earthly Yang Qi erupted, zing skyward with an infinite burst of fire.


    The fire surged so rapidly and fiercely that the ground below shattered, sending mes roaring upwards towards the endless swarm of ck insects.


    These ck insects were far weaker than the legendary Six-Winged Golden Cicadas of ancient immortals. While ordinary fire might be resisted, the Earthly Yang Qi was their ultimate nemesis.


    The Earthly Yang Qi surged, and the sky was suddenly dyed a brilliant red by the mes.


    Surrounding the area, strong wind spells cast by Yi Yan''s arranged forces swiftly whipped up a storm, driving any escaping insects back into the inferno.


    Burn, burn furiously!


    Yi Yan''s strategy was to use fire. To fight these ck insects with an army would be foolish. Only fire could destroy them.


    At the center of the swarm, a golden insect, terrified, transformed into Mr. Insect''s appearance amidst thousands of other insects.


    Mr. Insect had not anticipated Yi Yan''s fire attack and was now in a panic. The body formed by countless insects had been mostly destroyed. The remaining insects regrouped, but their strength was greatly diminished.


    Escape! There was no choice but to flee!


    Mr. Insect had hoped to shock the world with a single battle, to annihte the Da Xia Dynasty. But now, it seemed his campaign was off to a disastrous start. He had nearly died and had only managed to kill the zombie army.


    Or not even that. Mr. Insect''s zombie army consisted entirely of dead bodies. Up to now, apart from killing two of the city lord''s guards, he hadn''t killed anyone from the enemy side!


    He had killed two of his own men, yet hadn''t taken down a single enemy. His n had fallen apart miserably.


    Mr. Insect felt a surge of frustration, bordering on tears. This was a far cry from shocking the world��he''d be aughingstock instead!


    Escape?


    In his current state, did he still think he could escape? Yi Yan''s strategy was meticulous, with every move anticipated. For Mr. Insect, there was no escape. Yi Yan''s two hundred thousand soldiers were ready.


    The endless mes erupted, obliterating Mr. Insectpletely.


    This battle hadn''t ended with Mr. Insect shocking the world but rather elevated Yi Yan. The terrifying zombie army had initially raised Mr. Insect''s status, but Yi Yan swiftly brought him down.


    It was clear that Mr. Insect had unwittingly paved the way for Yi Yan to shine.


    Yi Yan''s formidable tactics nearly made some forget his fearsome prowess. This battle once again established him among the top military strategists of the Divine Continent. A wless victory, with no casualties, a remarkable achievement.


    Simultaneously, the Da Xia Dynasty, under which Yi Yan served, drew the attention of all. Especially its emperor, Zhong Shan.


    What kind of person was Zhong Shan?


    The spies from various factions quickly disseminated the news. Those receiving the information were destined for sleepless nights.


    Meanwhile, Mr. Corpse, relying on his depleted skeleton army and regenerated zombie army, ughtered everyone in Liuhe City.


    Other armies of Da Xia also moved towards major cities.


    A one-sided massacre ensued.


    The Da Xia Dynasty''s army was overwhelmingly powerful.


    Wherever the Da Xia army marched, none could stand against them!


    After another round of conquests, Zhong Shan''s fearsome reputation had instilled terror in the remaining seven immortal cities of the Da Guang Dynasty. Both the popce and the military were stricken with fear.


    Cities were practically empty, with only one out of ten households still upied, and even deserters were appearing.


    The unstoppable might of the Da Xia Dynasty had deeply imprinted itself on countless minds.


    In Tian Guang City of the Da Guang Dynasty:


    In the imperial court, the ministers were filled with fear, trembling in their boots. Han Ji Guang continued to attend court, remaining calm in the face of turmoil.


    Mr. Insect was dead, but Han Ji Guang still had an ace up his sleeve��Crystal Old Demon, a powerful curse master.


    In the forbidden area of the imperial pce''s backyard:


    Only Emperor Han Ji Guang and Prince Han Chuang were allowed near. Guards could only stand watch from afar, witnessing a brilliant light emanate from within every seven days.


    Inside the forbidden area was arge tform. Atop the tform sat a strange man in white robes, his body normal, but his face was like zed ss, giving him an extremely grotesque appearance.


    This man was the Crystal Old Demon.


    Seated cross-legged with his eyes closed, the Crystal Old Demon seemed to be muttering something. In front of him were six straw dolls, each with a talisman affixed to it.


    Each talisman bore a name: Zhong Shan, Lin Xiao, Yi Yan, Mr. Corpse, Shui Wuhen, and Shui Jing.


    Only the talismans for Lin Xiao and Shui Wuhen had birth dates inscribed.


    A greenntern sat atop each doll''s head and at their feet, casting an eerie light.


    The Crystal Old Demon chanted for a while before suddenly opening his eyes. His eyes were sunken, like deep, hollow pits, making him look even more hideous.


    With a flip of his hand, six more talismans appeared. He made a series of hand signs, and the talismans ignited, burning brightly. He threw the burning talismans at the dolls. Strangely, the straw dolls did not catch fire but emitted a blinding light.


    As the light faded, the Crystal Old Demon resumed his cross-legged position and continued his incantations.


    At the same time, on the battlefield:


    Lin Xiao was leading his army in a massacre.


    "Puh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Lin Xiao suddenly spat out a mouthful of blood, his body bing incredibly weak. He quickly drew his sword to support himself, his face turning extremely pale.


    "Commander!" his guards eximed in rm.


    "Continue the massacre. Once the city is cleared, take me to the Emperor!" Lin Xiao ordered weakly.


    "Yes!" The guards, though terrified, responded immediately.


    Simrly, at Shui Wuhen''s location:


    "Commander!" his guards shouted in shock.


    "Continue the massacre. The Zhong Army never fails a mission. This is thest city. The Fifth Legion must not fall behind. Finish the ughter, then take me to the Emperor!" Shui Wuhen said with difficulty.


    After speaking, Shui Wuhen copsed.


    "Yes!" The guards responded, tears streaming down their faces.


    The fourth round of city massacres hadmenced.


    After the fourth round of city massacres, the Da Guang Dynastypletely fell apart, leaving only the capital, Tian Guang City.


    Zhong Shan''s central army marched straight to Tian Guang City, unstoppable along the way. They halted only at the outskirts, where the various legions regrouped.


    Inside the central army''s main hall:


    Zhong Shan looked at Lin Xiao and Shui Wuhen lying on stretchers.


    "This is curse magic!" Mr. Corpse dered with certainty.


    "Can you break it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s the Seven-Seven Nail Arrow Curse! A powerful curse that doesn''t require proximity, only the target''s birthdate and name. Every seven days, a fire talisman is burned, and after forty-nine days, the curse kills the target. However, there''s a w: if the curse caster dies during this period, the curse is lifted!" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Then we kill the curse caster!" Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with determination, his hatred for Han Ji Guang intensifying.


    In Tian Guang City:


    "Big brother, the Crystal Old Demon is truly formidable. His curse magic has indeed halted Zhong Shan''s army," Han Chuang eximed.


    "So what if they''ve stopped? The Da Guang Dynasty is finished. Zhong Shan''s army is incredibly fast, too fast!" Han Ji Guang sighed.


    "What does it matter? Once the Crystal Old Demon curses Zhong Shan and his men to death, won''t the Da Xia Dynasty copse? Then we can reim our territory," Han Chuang said.


    Han Ji Guang gave Han Chuang a cold look but said nothing. Reiming their territory? Easier said than done. Countless forces and eyes were watching. Would they really allow him to reim his territory? When he founded the Da Guang Dynasty, it was done in secret.


    "Come on, let''s check on the Crystal Old Demon," Han Ji Guang said.


    The two walked towards the forbidden area in the pce, the ce that emitted a brilliant light every seven days. Protected by a strange formation, it prevented any spiritual probing.


    As they entered the area:


    "What''s going on? How can this be?" Han Chuang suddenly screamed, rushing towards therge tform.


    Han Ji Guang felt something was wrong and appeared on the tform in a sh.


    The tform was in disarray. The straw dolls were gone, and the Crystal Old Demon''s body was riddled with seven or eight holes.


    Hey in a pool of blood. His Purple Pce, Dantian, forehead, and Mud Pill Pce were all pierced through.


    It was a brutal murder, leaving no doubt that the Crystal Old Demon was dead.


    How was this possible? Who could silently kill the Crystal Old Demon?


    Han Ji Guang''s ace, dead in such a humiliating manner?


    "Crystal Old Demon. Crystal Old Demon!" Han Chuang muttered, looking around in paranoia. From the scene, it seemed the Crystal Old Demon was killed in one strike and then brutally ughtered dozens of times. Who could have done this? Who could enter this formation unnoticed? It was terrifying. Could the assassin still be lurking?


    Han Ji Guang approached the corpse, taking a deep breath. He extended his right hand, a drop of blood emerging from his fingertip, drawing a strange symbol in the air before touching the Crystal Old Demon''s body.


    "Whoosh!" The Crystal Old Demon''s eyes opened.


    "Alive?" Han Chuang was astonished.


    "It''s just ast gasp. He can''t be saved," Han Ji Guang shook his head.


    The Crystal Old Demon looked at Han Ji Guang and suddenly spoke, "Dark Emperor, he''s called the Dark Emperor. He took my ''Heavenly Evil Curse''. Avenge me!"


    With that, the Crystal Old Demon''s eyes lost their focus, and his soul dispersed, leaving him truly dead.

 Chapter 527: The Army at Tian Guang City鈥檚 Gates

    <h4>Chapter 527: The Army at Tian Guang City''s Gates</h4>


    Crystal Old Demon was dead? Han Ji Guang''s greatest ace had died so pathetically?


    Han Chuang''s face was full of fear. Crystal Old Demon was a powerhouse at the Huangji level, yet he died silently and inexplicably? Who would be next? The thought of this sent chills down his spine as he recalled two specific descriptions.


    "Zhong Shan, Zhong Shan is now without ws. With Wei Yinn dead, he has no weaknesses."


    "Being wless means he''s invincible. Wei Yinn was Zhong Shan''s most cherished person, yet Han Ji Guang forced her to her death. Zhong Shan will not rest; a terrifying vengeance is about to begin."


    "You don''t understand, you don''t understand at all. This time it''s different. I can only tell you that the Da Guang Dynasty is finished. Anyone associated with Da Guang is also finished. Huangji level? If you only consider Zhong Shan''s cultivation, you''re gravely mistaken. An enraged Zhong Shan is unpredictable," said Wang Chen before he left.


    "Uncle, if you can''t kill him in one strike, flee far away. Zhong Shan is too sinister, too sinister," Se Kong had advised.


    The panic in their voices echoed in Han Chuang''s mind, the sense of danger growing stronger, making him shiver uncontrobly.


    Han Ji Guang''s face was pale, his expression stern. A sense of losing control suddenly enveloped him, as if everything had deviated from its original path.


    Han Ji Guang looked terrible, leaving Crystal Old Demon''s corpse behind as he turned to leave.


    Meanwhile, Lin Xiao and Shui Wuhen regained consciousness. Though not fully recovered, as long as they didn''t engage in fiercebat, they appeared as normal as anyone else.


    The Da Guang Dynasty, after months of massacres, had finally lost all its affiliated cities, leaving only the capital, Tian Guang City.


    The army continued to advance. Within Tian Guang City, the people were in a state of panic. Most had already fled, and now even more were escaping quickly. Many soldiers had deserted. The civil and military officials had dwindled to half their number.


    Fear, endless fear, pervaded Tian Guang City.


    The Da Xia Dynasty, was it still just a dynasty? Its speed in conquering cities was terrifying, even more so than when the Great Luo Empire annihted the Da Guang Empire.


    If only Grand Marshal Xiao Wang were still here.


    Defeat! Defeat! Defeat!


    A trail of devastating defeats and massacres left rivers of blood, staining the entire Da Guang Dynasty. The terrifying Da Xia army! Its military power wasparable to that of an empire. No, it wasn''t about numbers. The Da Guang Dynasty had aparable number of soldiers. So why were they defeated so quickly?


    Commanders! Yes, themanders of the Da Xia Dynasty''s armies were too powerful! Everywhere they went, they were invincible! Why had so many powerfulmanders gathered in Da Xia? How could a small dynasty gather such a vast force?


    When the remaining five million troops of the Da Xia Dynasty arrived at the gates of Tian Guang City, the city''s poption had dwindled to less than 200,000, and the defending soldiers to only 400,000.


    A total of just 600,000 people, sworn to defend Tian Guang City to the death.


    Six hundred thousand? Against Da Xia''s five million? The disparity was staggering.


    Han Chuang recalled the descriptions from Wang Chen and Se Kong. Looking at the dire situation, his heart was already set on retreat. Though his brother Han Ji Guang was strong and showed no signs of panic, Han Chuang had no faith in his brother''s ability to win.


    Escape! Escape quickly!


    Before the Da Xia army reached the city gates, Han Chuang secretly fled through the northern gate.


    Han Chuang escaped, but could he really get away?


    The execution order from Zhong Shan was clear and resolute.


    "Han Ji Guang has killed my beloved. From this day forth, Da Xia and Han Ji Guang are mortal enemies. Zhong Shan harbors a hatred as deep as the sea for Han Ji Guang and vows to exact vengeance, exterminating Han Ji Guang''s entire n. Han Ji Guang shall face the punishment of a thousand cuts."


    Exterminating Han Ji Guang''s nine ns meant that Han Chuang, his dear brother, could not escape.


    Indeed, shortly after fleeing from Tian Guang City, Han Chuang was ambushed. A purple sh streaked through the sky.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Han Chuang barely managed to parry the attack, and bothbatants were knocked back.


    Han Chuang steadied himself, looking suspiciously at the ck-robed figure on the distant mountain peak. The man''s face was cold, holding a slender purple sword, his eyes fixed on Han Chuang with a gaze that seemed to look at a dead man.


    "Who, who are you?" Han Chuang shouted, eyes wide.


    "I am themander of the Shadow Guard, Da Xia''s Imperial Defense Service. I am the Dark Emperor," the ck-robed man replied calmly.


    "You? The Dark Emperor? You''re the one who killed Crystal Old Demon?" Han Chuang eximed.


    "You will end up like him," the Dark Emperor replied coldly.


    "Wait, I''ve already left the city. The Da Xia army is besieging the city. Why do you pursue me?" Han Chuang demanded angrily.


    "By His Majesty''s order, the Shadow Guard supervises the members of Han Ji Guang''s nine ns. You are among them. In the city, you might die a bitter. But once you flee, you are to be killed on sight," the Dark Emperor said, waving his purple sword.


    "Then, those sent away earlier..." Han Chuang stammered, uncertain.


    "There were five groups, totaling 821 members of Han Ji Guang''s nine ns. They have all been sent to the underworld. You''re next!" The Dark Emperor shattered Han Chuang''sst hopes.


    Han Chuang''s eyes widened with rage, anger surging into his head. Was the Han family truly doomed?


    ring at the Dark Emperor, a purple divine seal emerged from Han Chuang''s forehead, shining brightly.


    Seeing the seal, the Dark Emperor smiled faintly. "I''ve been waiting for your divine seal. His Majesty said that when a Huangji-level cultivator activates the divine seal, their power will approach the Imperial level. But ''approach'' means not reaching it. Without reaching the Imperial level, you will die!"


    With a coldugh, the Dark Emperor''s figure blurred into a ck shadow, charging forward.


    At Tian Guang City, Zhong Shan''s five-million-strong army besieged the city.


    A massive imperial banner bearing the character "Zhong!" stood proudly, nked by five grand marshal banners.


    Lin, Yi, Corpse, Shui, Shui!


    And one more, a white banner: Wei!


    The banner of Wei Yinn, though white, stood strikingly next to Zhong Shan''s imperial banner.


    The wind howled, spreading an atmosphere of sorrow and killing intent in all directions. On Zhong Shan''smand, the five million soldiers surrounded Tian Guang City, allowing no one to escape.


    Zhong Shan stood with his main force south of the city, looking at Yinn''s banner beside him, remaining silent for a long time. No one disturbed him.


    After a while, Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed, a cold, fierce killing intent shing in his gaze as he turned towards the vast city ahead.


    Inside Tian Guang City, in the imperial court:


    "Your Majesty, Tian Guang City is surrounded. There''s no escape. Beside Zhong Shan''s imperial banner, they have erected Wei Yinn''s mourning banner! Your Majesty, what should we do?" a trembling minister asked.


    The other ministers in the court were equally terrified, looking to Han Ji Guang for guidance.


    Han Ji Guang didn''t despise these ministers for their fear. In fact, they were the bravest, least afraid to die. With the Da Xia army at their gates, countless civilians, soldiers, and officials had fled. Even his own brother, Han Chuang, had escaped. But these ministers had not. They were willing to live and die with him. Their trembling was merely an instinctive reaction. To Han Ji Guang, these men were his most precious treasures.


    Those who stayed with him until the end would be greatly rewarded if they survived this cmity.


    "Don''t worry! I have a n!" Han Ji Guang''s calm demeanor remained unshaken. Hisposed manner seemed to influence his ministers, slowly dissipating their fear.


    "Yes!" the ministers responded immediately.


    Trusting their emperor had be a deeply ingrained habit, no matter how dire the situation.


    As Han Ji Guang maintained his calm, he yed another ace up his sleeve.


    Suddenly, outside Tian Guang City, a vast and peculiar fog began to rise.


    This fog wasn''t white but a mixture of various colors��some red, some green��creating an extremely strange sight.


    The dense fog quickly enveloped the entire Tian Guang City, appearing and spreading mysteriously.


    Fog?


    Seeing this bizarre multicolored fog, Zhong Shan''s army halted. Zhong Shan coldly observed the distant fog. He knew it wasn''t just for show; there had to be some deadly trap within.


    "Let''s test it," Zhong Shan said to Mr. Corpse.


    Mr. Corpse nodded andmanded nearly a hundred zombies to march towards the fog encircling Tian Guang City.


    They walked and walked, but upon entering the colorful fog, the zombies'' faces began to contort as if being burned. Their bodies seemed to soften and, after seven steps, they copsed into pools of blood, disintegratingpletely.


    Disintegrated?


    Zhong Shan frowned at this sight.


    "Poison, and extremely potent!" Mr. Corpse eximed.


    "The Five-Colored Poison Array?" Gu Qianyou frowned.


    "You recognize it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s a death array. Once activated, it can''t be controlled until its power fades," Gu Qianyou exined, puzzled.


    "Oh?"


    "This array is created using the toxins of three thousand poisonous creatures from the Divine Continent, with a ninth-grade magical treasure as its core. Once formed, no one can control it. It creates a toxic fog barrier that protects everything inside. The poison is so potent it can corrode anything. To enter, one must have the cultivation of the Huangji realm and charge in at full strength before the toxins can prate the body," Gu Qianyou exined.


    "So, the army cannot advance for now," Mr. Corpse said, frowning.


    "Han Ji Guang is buying time!" Lin Xiao said, his brow furrowing.


    "Buying time or not, he''s doomed. No one can save him now," Shui Wuhen said coldly.

 Chapter 528: Cursing Ying

    <h4>Chapter 528: Cursing Ying</h4>


    Zhong Shan stood on the dragon tform, staring at the endless sea of toxic fog. His eyes grew colder, and a faint, contemptuous smile curled his lips.


    "Is there a way to break this?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The solution is simple, but it will take a long time," Gu Qianyou replied after some thought.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was surprised. A simple solution?


    "Water. All it takes is continuous rainfall. After a month of persistent rain, the toxic fog will dissipate," Gu Qianyou exined.


    A month?


    Zhong Shan frowned, pondering the situation.


    "Your Majesty, it seems the viin Han is indeed calling for reinforcements!" Yi Yan said with a smile.


    Zhong Shan nced into the distance, his eyes gleaming with ferocity. "Reinforcements? Fine, I''d like to see who darese!"


    "People''s hearts are unpredictable. Maybe someone will," Yi Yan remarked.


    "I say no one will," Zhong Shan asserted confidently.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s certainty, Yi Yan fell silent.


    "Summon those skilled in water magic and start creating rain clouds immediately. Gather wind mages to drive the clouds here. Everyone else, follow me to break this array!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" came the prompt response.


    Soon, under the influence of powerful water mages, countless ck clouds began to gather in the sky.


    "Boom"


    With a p of thunder, the rain began to fall.


    "Ssh, ssh, ssh..."


    Inside Tian Guang City, the rain started to pour, gradually diluting the Five-Colored Poison Array. However, the array was strange and cunning;rge amounts of toxic fog continuously emerged from unknown sources, replenishing what the rain washed away.


    In Tian Guang City''s imperial court:


    Only Han Ji Guang''s closest confidants remained.


    "Your Majesty, if this rain continues, Tian Guang City will be indefensible in a month!" the person who set up the array said worriedly.


    "No matter. A month is enough. Help wille," Han Ji Guang assured.


    "Yes!" The person nodded and said no more.


    Meanwhile, the surrounding empires received Han Ji Guang''s plea for help. The letters were sincere, promising incredibly tempting rewards for those who came to his aid.


    Various emperors pondered deeply.


    In the northern part of Tian Guang City, in the Daxuan Empire:


    In the emperor''s study, the emperor sat at his desk, two rows of strategists standing before him.


    If Zhong Shan were here, he would be shocked to recognize the emperor of the Daxuan Empire as Gu Xuan, one of the four crown princes of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty.


    Hadn''t Gu Xuan founded the Yongle Empire? Why was he now in the Daxuan Empire''s pce?


    Before Gu Xuan stood his strategists, including Fan Yipin.


    Holding a letter, Gu Xuan''s expression was peculiar. He handed the letter to Fan Yipin.


    Fan Yipin quickly read it and passed it to the others.


    "Han Ji Guang? Haha, it seems Your Majesty''s disguise wasn''t hidden well enough. Han Ji Guang knows your identity!" Fan Yipinughed.


    In the study, perhaps only Fan Yipin dared to joke with Gu Xuan.


    "So what if they know? The Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty is no more. Who can still control me?" Gu Xuanughed.


    "Your Majesty is wise!" Fan Yipin nodded with a smile.


    At this moment, the letter had made its way through the hands of the strategists.


    "This Zhong Shan is growing too fast!" one strategist eximed.


    "The Da Guang Dynasty, though only a dynasty, has the foundation of an empire. It should be beyond the reach of another dynasty. The rise of the Da Xia Dynasty defiesmon sense," another strategist said, shaking his head in concern.


    "Shui Jing and Liu Yanyan were surely targeted by Zhong Shan''s schemes against Your Majesty," Fan Yipin frowned.


    Gu Xuan nodded, recognizing the truth. Shui Jing''s death by poison and subsequent consumption by wolves was a ludicrous lie, but it had somehow convinced him. Zhong Shan was indeed ambitious and cunning.


    "Your Majesty, what do you think of Han Ji Guang''s offer?" Fan Yipin asked, looking at Gu Xuan.


    "He promises to surrender his entire dynasty to me if I rescue him, provided I make him a prince of another surname?" Gu Xuan mused.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. For a former emperor to pledge this much loyalty is remarkable. With Han Ji Guang, Your Majesty would gain a significant ally," Fan Yipin advised.


    "No, Your Majesty. Han Ji Guang, a former emperor, will never truly submit. Once he regains strength, he will certainly turn against us. He cannot be trusted!" another strategist countered.


    Although he opposed Fan Yipin''s view, Fan Yipin remained calm. After all, a healthy debate among strategists was beneficial to the emperor.


    "I support Mr. Fan''s proposal. Han Ji Guang will never surpass Your Majesty. Even if he gathers talents, they will naturally follow Your Majesty, not a mere prince. Han Ji Guang will never be a threat," another strategist argued.


    "Your Majesty, send troops. If you do, I guarantee at least three other dynasties will join you!" Fan Yipin insisted.


    "No, Your Majesty. The Da Xia Dynasty''s military power is too overwhelming. Engaging them now is unwise. Even if we gain Han Ji Guang, it''s only a possibility. Confronting the Da Xia Dynasty will certainly bring heavy losses. Zhong Shan, driven by vengeance for Wei Yinn, will fight with reckless abandon. What then?" the opposing strategist warned.


    "Your Majesty, haven''t you always been troubled by Huan Tulong''s allegiance to Gu Zhengyi? With Han Ji Guang, the Yongle Dynasty will rival the Dayong Dynasty," Fan Yipin argued onest time.


    Gu Xuan looked at everyone, pondered for a while, and shook his head. "No, we won''t go!"


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" the strategists responded immediately.


    Gu Xuan''s decision ended the debate. No one argued further.


    "Dismissed!" Gu Xuan ordered.


    "Yes!" the strategists nodded and left the study.


    "Mr. Fan, why does His Majesty refuse to go? Han Ji Guang is as formidable as Huan Tulong," a strategist asked Fan Yipin.


    "Sigh, it''s not that His Majesty doesn''t want to go. He fears an unexpected defeat. Currently, although we are not as strong as the Dayong Dynasty, we are close. A loss in this battle could open us up to an attack from Dayong. Gu Zhengyi is not a benevolent figure. His Majesty has his considerations. We strategists must simply advise and n ordingly," Fan Yipin exined.


    "Understood. Thank you for the guidance, Mr. Fan!" the strategist said.


    Fan Yipin nodded in acknowledgment.


    As Zhong Shan had predicted, various factions, each hindered by their own constraints, did note to Han Ji Guang''s aid despite his promises.


    Thus, the solitary city of Tian Guang stood alone, slowly eroded by continuous rain, marching towards its inevitable end��


    During the siege of Tian Guang City by the Da Xia Dynasty, deep within the East Sea:


    A massive and imposing undersea pce stood.


    This pce was called the Crystal Pce.


    Outside the Crystal Pce, a massive chariot was parked on the za. The chariot was harnessed to nine gigantic dragons��this was a dragon chariot.


    Numerous stern soldiers stood waiting outside. Among them was a familiar face to Zhong Shan��Bai Ye, who had been bitten by Ying and had reached the Emperor Extreme realm. Despite his lofty status, Bai Ye stood respectfully outside, waiting. The presence of the nine-dragon chariot meant only one person could be inside��Ying!


    The Crystal Pce, thergest pce of the Dragon n.


    Inside resided the Dragon n''s Supreme, Ao Sihai.


    At this moment, inside the pce, two of the world''s most formidable figures sat. Both in power and status, they were at the pinnacle.


    The first was Ao Sihai, the Supreme of the Dragon n, the most powerful of the demon ns.


    The second was Ying, the Emperor of the Great Qin Dynasty.


    Ying, dressed in a nine-dragon ck water robe and a ck jade crown, exuded an aura of authority and power. Ao Sihai, appearing around fifty in human years, wore a blue crystal dragon scale robe and a crystal dragon crown, looking exceedingly regal.


    The two sat at the highest point of the Crystal Pce, and in the pce were also Hao Meili and the Western Poison Emperor.


    "Ao Sihai, what are you doing? Are you trying to breach our agreement and strip me of my rights?" Hao Meili red at Ao Sihai with anger.


    Ao Sihai''s eyes shed with a hint of anger as he looked at Hao Meili.


    "Leave now!" Ao Sihai said in a deep voice.


    "Leave? My Hao family contract is about to be nullified by you, and you want me to leave? What does the Dragon n contract mean to you? Is it something you can change at will?" Hao Meili retorted defiantly.


    "So this is the bloodline left by Hao Tian? A body of ten thousand evils, how interesting!" Ying suddenly smiled.


    Hearing Ying''s voice, Hao Meili turned her eyes to Ying.


    It was him, he was the one trying to strip her of her rights?


    "You, it''s you, you devil! I curse you! I curse you to be struck by lightning, to die a horrible death!" Hao Meili screamed at Ying.


    Seeing Hao Meili cursing him, Ying''s eyes turned cold. Although Ying didn''t care about Hao Meili''s attacks, it didn''t mean he could tolerate being insulted.


    "I curse you..." Hao Meili continued to curse.


    She hoped that by cursing, she could bring death to the man before her and solve all her problems.


    "Humph!" Ying let out a cold snort.


    "Pu~~~~~~~"


    Hao Meili spat a mouthful of blood.


    "Disciple!" The Western Poison Emperor quickly supported Hao Meili, worried.


    "You, why are you okay?" Hao Meili looked at Ying, unable to understand.


    Why was he unharmed? Why didn''t her curse work? He had injured her, attacked her, so why hadn''t her curse taken effect?


    "Ying, let it be. I am partly to me for her situation. I will expel her from the Dragon Pce and she will never be allowed to return," Ao Sihai said.


    "Hmm!" Ying nodded, satisfied with the decision.


    Hao Meili, seeing this exchange, her eyes filled with venom, refrained from continuing her curses. Despite her spoiled nature, she knew some people couldn''t be provoked, and Ying was one of them.


    Finally, Hao Meili turned her gaze to Ao Sihai.


    "Ao Sihai, I will make you regret this!" Hao Meili spat venomously.


    She then left the Crystal Pce with the Western Poison Emperor. Ao Sihai watched her leave, his eyes cold.


    Back at Tian Guang City, surrounded by Zhong Shan''s army, the strange multicolored toxic fog continued to be washed away by the continuous rain. However, the toxic fog, replenished by unknown sources, still posed a threat.


    In the imperial court of Tian Guang City, Han Ji Guang''s confidants gathered.


    "Your Majesty, if this rain continues, Tian Guang City will be indefensible in a month!" the array master said worriedly.


    "No matter. A month is enough. Help wille," Han Ji Guang assured them.


    "Yes!" The confidants nodded and said no more.


    Meanwhile, the surrounding dynasties had received Han Ji Guang''s desperate pleas. The letters were sincere, promising incredible rewards for assistance. Various emperors pondered deeply.


    But as Zhong Shan had predicted, no one moved to help. Everyone was constrained by their own circumstances, leaving Tian Guang City isted and slowly marching towards its inevitable doom.

 Chapter 529: The Reincarnation Eyes Reveal Their Might

    <h4>Chapter 529: The Reincarnation Eyes Reveal Their Might</h4>


    Divine Continent, Tian Guang City!


    A month of continuous rain had finally washed away all the toxic fog, as well as the hope of everyone in the city.


    No aid came. None of the neighboring empires responded. They all chose silence, allowing the Da Xia Dynasty to act with impunity.


    Despair was etched on the faces of the city''s civilians and soldiers.


    Even Han Ji Guang''s once unwavering faith was now shaken.


    Was it a mistake? Was it wrong? People kept asking themselves, their expressions vacant. Some mistakes could be corrected, but others required one''s life as the price.


    Everyone had pinned their hopes on Han Ji Guang, but what they got in return was a dead end.


    "Prepare for battle!" a general''s sorrowful cry echoed from the city wall.


    In the imperial court:


    The ministers stared at Han Ji Guang, hoping he would say it was alright, that there was still a n.


    But did Han Ji Guang still have a n?


    Sitting on his throne, a bitter smile appeared on Han Ji Guang''s face. The Da Xia Dynasty had forced him, an emperor with the foundation of an empire, into such a desperate situation. Was this still just a dynasty? Was Zhong Shan still human?


    Defeated! Utterly defeated! Han Ji Guang couldn''t believe how thoroughly he had failed. Pleading for help and receiving none.


    "Your Majesty~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The ministers cried out, hoping Han Ji Guang could turn the tide!


    Turn the tide? Could he still turn the tide?


    Han Ji Guang stood up slowly. An emperor should have the dignity of an emperor. Even if he were to lose, he would lose on the battlefield, not sitting idly waiting for death.


    With a step, Han Ji Guang disappeared from his spot, heading straight for the southern city wall of Tian Guang City.


    "Your Majesty!" the generals on the city wall greeted him respectfully.


    Standing on the city wall, Han Ji Guang looked distantly at Zhong Shan on his dragon tform.


    Zhong Shan coldly gazed back at Han Ji Guang from afar.


    All around, there was silence. Whether it was Zhong Shan''s army or Han Ji Guang''s, no one spoke. They watched the two leaders intently. Even the spies from various factions remained silent.


    Zhong Shan vs. Han Ji Guang!


    A duel between kings! No one dared to intervene.


    "Ha, hahaha, hahahahaha..." Zhong Shanughed heartily.


    It was an utterly arrogantugh, a sound that could shatter the sky. But in the ears of the people, there was no joy in thatughter.


    Zhong Shan looked at the banner of Yinn, his voice filled with sorrow.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''sugh, Han Ji Guang felt deeply mocked.


    Since first hearing of Zhong Shan, Han Ji Guang knew he was formidable, but he never took him seriously enough. And now, with Zhong Shan''s army at his gates, he was pushed to the brink.


    "Zhong Shan!" Han Ji Guang called out.


    Zhong Shan stoppedughing, his eyes cold as he looked at Han Ji Guang.


    "Lin Xiao, heed mymand!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "At yourmand!" Lin Xiao responded immediately.


    "You are to lead the three armies and ughter the city~~~~~~~~~~!" Zhong Shan''s eyes zed as he gave the order.


    "Understood!" Lin Xiao immediately responded.


    "Zhong Shan, do you truly wish to duel me one-on-one?" Han Ji Guang asked incredulously, looking at Zhong Shan in the distance. Despite everything, Zhong Shan had been a mere Jindan stage cultivator just decades ago. Could he truly believe he could duel Han Ji Guang now?


    "I must avenge Yinn personally!" Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    As Zhong Shan spoke, a great swirl of sand began to rise beneath the dragon tform.


    The sandstorm grewrger and stronger until it filled the entire battlefield with swirling sand.


    "The Eight Gates Golden Lock Array?" someone shouted in surprise from a distance.


    How could the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array be here? Wasn''t Wei Yinn dead? How could this array still be activated?


    Zhong Shan reached out and grabbed Yinn''s whitemand banner, throwing it into the heart of the sandstorm.


    The banner was nted in the center of the storm, slowly sinking into it, as if Yinn had been resurrected to fight Han Ji Guang once more.


    Observers from various factions widened their eyes in shock, recording the scene with their memory crystals, each adding their interpretations.


    "Wei Yinn''s ghost has returned to the world, joining Zhong Shan to fight Han Ji Guang!"


    Wei Yinn''s ghost returned? Indeed, only the former Grand Tutor of the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, Tai Xuzi, and Yinn could perform the sand transformation of the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array. No one else could sandify the array because theycked the array soul, which ensured perfect coordination among the array members.


    But Zhong Shan was different. His shadow clones were himself, perfectly synchronized.


    "Wei Yinn? I don''t fear the living, why would I fear the dead?" Han Ji Guang''s eyes turned cold as he charged forward.


    Zhong Shan also took a step forward, charging into the center of the storm.


    The two entered a massive sandstorm, which engulfed them, transporting them into an enclosed space within the death gate of the Eight Gates.


    The air was thick with death energy, with endless zombies wandering about.


    Zhong Shan and Han Ji Guang faced each other coldly. Behind Zhong Shan, the ground was nted with Yinn''s grandmand banner.


    Outside, Lin Xiao, following Zhong Shan''s orders,manded the three armies.


    "Attack the city!" Lin Xiao ordered.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The Da Xia army roared in unison, advancing to attack the final city.


    "Eight Gates Golden Lock Array, so you know it too? But your array is not as strong as Yinn''s. Even Yinn''s array couldn''t trap me. Do you think yours can?" Han Ji Guang sneered at Zhong Shan.


    As he spoke, Han Ji Guang drew his treasured sword. This was the sword he had used to break through Yinn''s Eight Gates Golden Lock Array previously, unstoppable.


    "I don''t intend to use the array to trap you. I am enough!" Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    "You? Hmph, show me your skills, likest time!" Han Ji Guang pointed his sword at Zhong Shan.


    Last time, when Han Ji Guang had fought the King of the Wolf King, Zhong Shan had activated the Reincarnation Eyes. In that instant, Han Ji Guang felt threatened and abandoned the fight to retreat.


    Every emperor understood one crucial fact: they were not afraid of a powerful opponent; they were afraid of an opponent who concealed their strength. Any strength could eventually be countered, but a hidden threat was the most dangerous, capable of catching one off guard.


    Zhong Shan was powerful, but if he revealed his strength, there would always be a way to counter it. However, the hidden threats posed the greatest danger, and that''s why Han Ji Guang pointed his sword at Zhong Shan, demanding he show his true power.


    Seeing Han Ji Guang''s reaction, Zhong Shan smiled. This was no longer the once invincible emperor; he was now afraid!


    With a cruel smile, Zhong Shan said, "Alright, since you want to see it, be the first to face this move and die!"


    Han Ji Guang remained cautious, while Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed. His ck pupils turned green, resembling two deep, eerie tunnels.


    The Eyes of Reincarnation!


    Suddenly, that overwhelming sense of threat returned. Han Ji Guang felt his hairs stand on end.


    Death, death? Suddenly, Han Ji Guang felt a chilling sensation all over his body, a death threat enveloping him. Instinctively, he wanted to flee. How could this be?


    An emperor, at the Emperor Extreme realm, feeling such fear from just seeing those eyes? This was beyond instinct��it was destruction. Han Ji Guang felt a profound sense of annihtion.


    Flee? The heart of an emperor could not tolerate fleeing without a fight.


    In a panic, Han Ji Guang swung his sword at Zhong Shan. With his other hand, he grasped his imperial seal, preparing for another attack.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed. Han Ji Guang''s strength suddenly dissipated. The emperor, at the Emperor Extreme realm, was paralyzed under Zhong Shan''s gaze.


    An Emperor Extreme cultivator, unable to move under Zhong Shan''s "look"?


    Han Ji Guang couldn''t believe it. He never imagined he would be defeated so thoroughly, so quickly. It was terrifying.


    Those eyes were too terrifying. A powerful suction force pulled Han Ji Guang''s soul from his body, as if those eyes could control all souls in the world, like the eyes of a death god ruling over billions of lives.


    The primordial spirit, a fusion of the yang spirit (nascent soul) and yin spirit (soul), was being separated. In an instant, Han Ji Guang''s soul was pulled out of his body by Zhong Shan''s Eyes of Reincarnation.


    This was the primordial spirit of an Emperor Extreme realm cultivator, being forcibly separated, with the yin spirit (soul) pulled out?


    The body without its soul became dazed, and the soul without its body, even if powerful, was weak.


    The body, containing the yang spirit, still had immense energy, but without rity of mind, it couldn''t function. The soul, no matter how strong, couldn''t overpower the Eyes of Reincarnation.


    This was abnormal. Just one look could pull the opponent''s soul out of their body��these Eyes of Reincarnation were incredibly overpowering.


    "No, the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array, it was just a distraction?" Han Ji Guang''s soul screamed.


    Even though he screamed, his voice was barely audible since he was just a soul, an almost dissipated soul, or a ghost about to enter the underworld.


    But in front of the Eyes of Reincarnation, even the gates of the underworld wouldn''t open for him!


    "I won''t let you simply dissipate," Zhong Shan said coldly.


    With a flick of his hand, three drops of soul-consolidating liquid appeared. These were obtained from Mr. Corpse, and when applied to a dying person, their soul would coalesce into a ghost.


    "No~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Han Ji Guang screamed, but it was toote. Now, he could only be at Zhong Shan''s mercy!


    Restraining Han Ji Guang''s soul, Zhong Shan grabbed his body. He turned to look at Yinn''s banner.


    "Yinn, your granduncle has avenged you. He forced you to your death; I will make him taste the most cruel punishments of this world! I will destroy his reputation, annihte his nine ns, carve his body into a thousand pieces, have him despised by all, and let his ghost suffer eternal torment under the scorching sun, never to reincarnate!" Zhong Shan said, seeminglyforting Yinn''s banner.


    Revenge was exacted, but Zhong Shan''s eyes were still filled with sorrow. Yinn would nevere back to life. Previously, he had the goal of destroying Han Ji Guang, but now that revenge was achieved, Yinn was still gone. Zhong Shan felt an overwhelming emptiness inside.

 Chapter 530: Da Xia Shocks the World

    <h4>Chapter 530: Da Xia Shocks the World</h4>


    Zhong Shan had defeated Han Ji Guang.


    When the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array dissipated, and Han Ji Guangy on the ground like a dead man, the spies from various factions were stunned. Was Zhong Shan truly that powerful? Han Ji Guang, a seasoned Emperor Extreme realm expert, had been defeated?


    Defeated in a one-on-one duel? No, Zhong Shan had the ghost of Wei Yinn helping him. But still, the defeat was too absolute.


    Han Ji Guang''s body was covered in wounds, his clothes torn to shreds. What a fierce battle it must have been. What people didn''t realize was that the injuries on Han Ji Guang''s body were deliberately inflicted by Zhong Shan.


    As people marveled at Zhong Shan''s strength, a faint green energy beside him drew even more attention.


    What was that?


    Vaguely, a human figure could be seen within the green energy.


    Han Ji Guang? Was that Han Ji Guang?


    Everyone watched in astonishment. Was that Han Ji Guang''s ghost? Had Zhong Shan killed Han Ji Guang and even captured his ghost?


    In the distance, the attacking army had already entered the city. Themanders of the various legions had all gone in, but Zhong Shan''s personal guards, Gu Qianyou, and themander of the Jin Yi Wei remained, protecting Zhong Shan.


    Seeing Zhong Shan emerge victorious, everyone cheered.


    After all, Han Ji Guang was an Emperor Extreme realm expert, one of the top fighters in the Divine Continent. Despite their confidence in their emperor, there had been worries. But now, those worries were gone. Their emperor had won.


    Zhong Shan dissipated the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array and looked around coldly.


    The spies from various factions shuddered under Zhong Shan''s gaze, retreating further.


    The cries of despair echoed throughout Tian Guang City. But what could they do? War was inherently cruel. Over a year ago, Zhong Shan had dered his intention to massacre the city. They had chosen to stand by Han Ji Guang, and this was the consequence. They couldn''t me Zhong Shan.


    As the sovereign of Da Xia, Zhong Shan''s word wasw. Once spoken, it could not be undone.


    Han Ji Guang was dead!


    The spies from various factions observed the tragic state of Tian Guang City. The Da Guang Dynasty had copsed.


    The vanished fate from Tian Guang City''s skyline signaled the end of the Da Guang Dynasty, relegating it to history.


    Soon, Tian Guang City was thoroughly massacred, with some left behind to guard it.


    The army quickly reported back to Zhong Shan.


    "Your Majesty, Tian Guang City has beenpletely ughtered!" Lin Xiao reported sternly.


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded.


    He handed Han Ji Guang''s body and soul to Lin Xiao and Mr. Corpse respectively.


    Lin Xiao swiftly bound Han Ji Guang''s body, while Mr. Corpse, an expert with souls, quickly secured the ghost.


    Zhong Shan ascended the dragon tform once more, addressing his vast army.


    "Move out!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The army roared in unison as Zhong Shan led them south, heading towards the ce where Yinn had died.


    In a short period, numerous pces had been constructed there, along with a massive square, named Lanshang Square, in memory of Yinn.


    Two monthster, at Lanshang Square, Lin Xiao bound Han Ji Guang''s body, while Mr. Corpse hung Han Ji Guang''s ghost high.


    "Han Ji Guang shall be executed by a thousand cuts, his ghost exposed to the scorching sun!" Zhong Shan decreed.


    Only then did people realize that Han Ji Guang wasn''t entirely dead. His body still contained his yang spirit; only the yin spirit (soul) was missing.


    The realization brought a new wave of astonishment. The cruel fate awaiting Han Ji Guang would serve as a grim reminder of Zhong Shan''s vengeance and unyielding resolve.


    A Thousand Cuts! That naturally means being executed by slow slicing! The once mighty ruler of an empire, a supreme Emperor-level cultivator, is being executed by slow slicing in front of endlessmoners? Executed by slow slicing, put on disy for all the citizens, requiring just a single spit. Various factions mixed within the crowd watched as the once mighty Emperor-level cultivator was slowly sliced to death, their hearts filled withplex emotions. Emperor-level? An Emperor-level cultivator ending up like this? It was terrifying, but even more terrifying was the high gpole beside him. At the top of the gpole, somehow bound, was the ghost of Han Jiuguang. At this moment, under the scorching sun, he screamed incessantly, with copious amounts of ck gas emitting from his body. He was in a state of neither being able to live nor die. Everyone who saw this scene shuddered fiercely. Zhong Shan was too terrifying. Han Jiuguang''s reputation was ruined, his nine generations exterminated, and the Da Guang Dynasty was thoroughly destroyed. The emperor was spurned by the masses, his body sliced to death before the public, and his ghost was exposed to the sun, unable to find peace. It was too terrifying. The Great Zheng Dynasty was too crazy. Likewise, under the memory crystals, the news quickly spread across the world. People had been paying attention to this battle from the beginning, wanting to see the oue and determine who was stronger. Zhong Shan? Han Jiuguang? There was no need to say anymore. Through this battle, the name of the Great Zheng Dynasty shook the world. The dynasty, the Great Zheng Dynasty, in less than three years, reimed chaotds, destroyed eight great dynasties and nearly a hundred kingdoms. In less than a year, it annihted the Da Guang Dynasty, which had the foundation of an emperor-level dynasty. One battle shook the Divine Continent! No one who pursued fame and fortune was unaware of the Great Zheng Dynasty. The Great Zheng Dynasty was strong, extremely strong. In today''s world, among the dynasties, perhaps only the four ancient dynasties couldpare! Even an emperor-level dynasty, withoutplete preparation, would not want to provoke such a powerful force. The powerful Great Zheng Dynasty, how much fortune did it collect from this battle? After this battle, no one dared to underestimate the Great Zheng Dynasty. Nearby dynasties were pondering how to deal with it. After all, looking at the Great Zheng Dynasty''s aggressive conquest history over the years, no one wasn''t shocked. Emperor Zhong Shan, an unparalleled hero, with great talent and ambitious ns! The national beast, the wolf n, one of the great beast ns of the Divine Continent. The five major legionmanders, enough to overwhelm any emperor-level dynasty. The territory, reaching the size of an emperor-level dynasty. Unmatched in strength. The soldiers of Great Zheng were extremely fierce, ughtering cities along their path, drenched in blood. Although the Great Zheng was established not long ago, it had unconsciously built up a sufficient foundation, only needing time to solidify. Among the overlords of the Divine Continent, another was added: the Great Zheng Dynasty! The Great Zheng Dynasty''s battle shook the world! The only puzzling thing was, why didn''t the Great Zheng Dynasty move its capital to the chaotds? Was it worth cing the capital on an ind? No one knew what Zhong Shan was thinking. In the pce study of the Yongle Dynasty. Gu Xuan looked at the letter and memory crystals in his hand, his face extremely gloomy. The strategists standing not far away were also deeply moved. Executed by slow slicing? A mighty Emperor-level cultivator executed like this, spurned by the masses? And a ghost exposed to the sun, unable to find peace? At this moment, they didn''t know how to express their current feelings.


    "Was it right not to help Han Jiuguang?" Gu Xuan asked, somewhat doubtful.


    Fan Yipin immediately stepped forward, "Your Majesty is wise. If we had truly helped Han Jiuguang, our dynasty would have been gravely weakened, even if we had not been defeated. Your Majesty''s decision has ensured the evesting prosperity of the Yongle Dynasty!"


    "Your Majesty is wise!" the ministers echoed in unison.


    Gu Xuan looked at the ministers, deeply silent for a while, then said, "You may leave."


    Gu Xuan''s heart was very conflicted. He did not feel ted about not helping Han Jiuguang; instead, he felt a tinge of regret. Was it really right not to help Han Jiuguang?


    The emperors of other dynasties looked at the memory crystals in their hands, falling into a slight silence. The war between dynasties could be so grand and intense. It was clear that the Great Zheng Dynasty now had the strength of an emperor-level dynasty, at least approaching it, capable of standing on equal footing with themselves.


    As for the heavenly dynasties, it was unknown what the attitudes of the sovereigns were.


    The chaotds, along with the former territory of the Da Guang Dynasty, were renamed by Zhong Shan as Qingzhou! This vastnd conquered over the years, Qingzhou.


    The shadow body of Zhong Shan took Gu Qianyou back to Tiang Ind, while Qingzhou was left under the guardianship of Yi Yan, Shui Jing, and Shui Wuhen. They would develop their respective Great Zheng military forces and restore Qingzhou''s vitality. The three major legionmanders divided Qingzhou into three parts, each overseeing one area.


    The Great Zheng Dynasty decided to rest and recover, which left some neighboring dynasties, who had been on edge, slightly surprised. Zhong Shan left?


    Upon hearing this news, almost everyone was puzzled. Why did Zhong Shan leave? Zhong Shan returned to Tiang Ind because something monumental was being prepared there. The mud Buddha was setting up an array to attempt tomunicate with the yin and yang realms.


    North of Xuanjing, a vast area had been cleared, and countless pceplexes had been built. At the very center was thergest pce. The Yin-Yang Pce! The Yin-Yang Pce belonged to the Imperial Astronomical Observatory. The pce was constructed with infinite materials, the expenditure on its construction was incredibly extravagant. But, to Zhong Shan, everything was worth it.


    Once the exterior of the pce waspleted, the interior construction began. Craftsmen could be hired for the exterior, but only the people from the Imperial Astronomical Observatory could work on the interior. The mud Buddha was personally responsible for overseeing the construction of the Yin-Yang Pce!


    Outside the Yin-Yang Pce za, Zhong Shan stood with his hands behind his back, looking at the massive pce before him. Standing beside him were Bao''er, Ling''er, and Qianyou. The mud Buddha introduced the situation to Zhong Shan.


    "This array is called the ''Yin-Yang Road.'' It will bepletely built soon. Each activation will require nine hundred million top-grade spirit stones," the mud Buddha exined.


    Yin-Yang Road? Each activation requiring nine hundred million top-grade spirit stones? Tian Ling''er opened her mouth wide in shock. Nine hundred million? How many spirit stones was that? Think of it, one mountain? Two mountains?... This was not just opening the yin and yang realms; it was burning money, treating spirit stones as if they were nothing. The number was terrifying!


    "Nine hundred million? Hmm, how many people can it amodate each time?" Zhong Shan asked the crucial question.


    "Nine people, excluding me as the main array operator, Your Majesty can select eight more people to go to the underworld," the mud Buddha replied earnestly.


    Nine hundred million top-grade spirit stones could only send nine people to the underworld? This was too extravagant! "Hmm, I will carefully select them. Continue the construction and notify me when it''splete," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Yes!" the mud Buddha responded.


    Then, Zhong Shan left with everyone.


    "Zhong Shan, I want to go!" Not far away, Tian Ling''er eximed.


    "You cannot go!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "I want to see my parents!" Tian Ling''er''s face was filled with sadness.


    Hearing Tian Ling''er''s words, Qianyou and Bao''er also looked at Zhong Shan expectantly. Going to the underworld? Finding their rtives? The two women were filled with hope. "No, this trip to the underworld is extremely dangerous. None of you can go. I will find Master and Mistress," Zhong Shan shook his head firmly.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s refusal, Tian Ling''er pouted. "Why can you go, but I can''t!" Tian Ling''er protested.

 Chapter 531: The Imperial Seal

    <h4>Chapter 531: The Imperial Seal</h4>


    After a lengthy exnation, Zhong Shan finally dispelled the women''s thoughts. Although reluctant, they eventually had topromise.


    Upon returning, Zhong Shan informed his close confidants of the news. Apart from himself and the mud Buddha, there were seven remaining spots. Zhong Shan naturally had to consider these carefully.


    In the pce study, Zhong Shan was reviewing some documents.


    "Your Majesty, this old servant wishes to go to the underworld!" A sudden voice broke the silence.


    The study had only one other person, the chief eunuch, Wei Taizhong.


    Zhong Shan gazed at Wei Taizhong. Wei Taizhong, Kuier''s third brother, Yinn''s third great-uncle. Due to being a eunuch, he had no descendants. To avenge his rtives, he infiltrated the Da Kun Kingdom. After Zhong Shan destroyed the Da Kun Kingdom, Wei Taizhong willingly continued to serve as the chief eunuch of the Great Zheng Dynasty.


    "You want to go?" A hint of kindness shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    If it had been anyone else speaking to him this way, Zhong Shan would not have liked it, but Wei Taizhong was different. Kuier''s third brother, Yinn''s third great-uncle��Zhong Shan felt a vague sense of guilt towards him.


    "Yes!" Wei Taizhong replied.


    "I could bestow upon you the title of a leisurely prince, wouldn''t that be better? No need to risk life and death," Zhong Shan persuaded.


    "Your Majesty, my elder sister is dead, my second brother and his wife are dead. Besides serving Your Majesty, my only remaining rtive is Yinn. But Yinn also died not long ago. I am unwilling, I want to tear Han Jiuguang into pieces, but Your Majesty beat me to it. Even if I were alone, I couldn''t do anything to Han Jiuguang. Yinn has be a ghost. Mr. Corpse said that newly formed ghosts are very weak. I want to go find her and protect her," Wei Taizhong said.


    Zhong Shan looked at Wei Taizhong in silence.


    "Your Majesty, perhaps even my elder sister, second brother, and second sister-inw have be ghosts? Maybe their souls haven''t scattered. I beg Your Majesty, let me go to the underworld, just to see my family. I beg of you!" Wei Taizhong suddenly knelt on the ground, his face pleading, tears of sorrow streaming from his eyes.


    Zhong Shan stepped forward and helped Wei Taizhong up.


    Looking at Wei Taizhong, Zhong Shan sighed deeply, "Sigh, distribute and hand over the eunuch''s authority, ande with me."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Wei Taizhong nodded excitedly and stood up immediately.


    Standing before Zhong Shan, he seemed a bit awkward and agitated, unsure of what to do.


    "Go, distribute and hand over the eunuch''s authority properly. Make sure the pce runs smoothly after you leave," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Sigh!" Wei Taizhong responded joyfully and, abandoning his usual calm demeanor, hurried away.


    Watching Wei Taizhong''s departing figure, Zhong Shan sighed deeply. Six spots remained.


    "Zhong Shan,e out!" A loud shout suddenly came from outside.


    Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow, then recognized the voice. Hao Meili!


    Why was he on Tiang Ind?


    Zhong Shan immediately went outside.


    Outside, arge number of guards had already surrounded Hao Meili and the Western Poison Emperor.


    "I knew you were here!" Hao Meili''s eyes lit up upon seeing Zhong Shan.


    "Stand down!" Zhong Shan waved his hand.


    "Yes!" The guards immediately stepped aside.


    Hao Meili, without any courtesy, swaggered into Zhong Shan''s study with the Western Poison Emperor.


    Zhong Shan smiled helplessly but didn''t mind.


    Entering the hall, Hao Meili sat on a chair, poured himself a cup of tea, and drank it as if he had been traveling for days.


    Zhong Shan looked at the Western Poison Emperor, who gave a wry smile.


    Seeing the smile, Zhong Shan knew something significant had happened.


    "What happened?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I had a falling out with the Dragon Pce!" Hao Meili said directly.


    "A falling out?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "Yes, the other day, the Holy Emperor of the Great Qin, Ying, visited the Dragon Pce..." the Western Poison Emperor began recounting the events that took ce in the Dragon Pce.


    "Your Ten Thousand Evils Body had no effect on Ying?" Zhong Shan asked, staring at Hao Meili.


    "Correct, no effect at all. I want revenge. I must get revenge. Ao Sihai, I will make him regret. I will reim the power of the Dragon n!" Hao Meili said, face full of anger.


    "And what will you rely on?" Zhong Shan looked at Hao Meili.


    "Just me! I will reim the power of the Dragon n. I will make Ao Sihai bow at my feet! You don''t believe me?" Hao Meili red at Zhong Shan, angry.


    "It''s not that I don''t believe you. With your Ten Thousand Evils Body, as long as you grow stronger, you will definitely be able to dominate the Divine Continent. But right now, with your current strength, what can you rely on to confront Ao Sihai so recklessly?" Zhong Shan shook his head and advised.


    "You..." Hao Meili''s face turned red with anger.


    Hao Meili knew Zhong Shan meant well, trying to prevent her from being too reckless. Cursing Ying had nearly cost her life; cursing Ao Sihai would likely end the same. If he decided to kill her, would she have to die young?


    Thinking about this, Hao Meili''s face showed a hint of panic.


    "Zhong Shan, you are my only friend in the Divine Continent. I''m in trouble this time. Will you help me?" Hao Meili stared at Zhong Shan, still proud despite her plea.


    Zhong Shan looked at Hao Meili and shook his head with a slight smile.


    "What trouble can you have? Ao Sihai didn''t take action against you before, and he probably won''t in the future. He vited the Dragon n''s ancestral rules by choosing another contractor, feeling guilty towards the Hao family. As a Heaven''s Limit realm expert, his mind shouldn''t be so narrow," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "No, it wasn''t about choosing another contractor!" The Western Poison Emperor shook his head.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at the Western Poison Emperor.


    "Ying signed the Dragon n contract long before any of us, even before the ancestors of the Hao family and the Holy Emperor of Haotian. Ying is not from this era. His name was on the Dragon n contract book long ago. The Hao family was ater signer. It was bad luck for the Dragon n to have two contracts at the same time, so they removed one," the Western Poison Emperor exined.


    "Damn it, why is Ying still alive!" Hao Meiliined.


    Heaven''s Limit realm experts have a maximum lifespan of ten thousand years. Yet, Ying has lived for tens of thousands of years.


    Although Zhong Shan knew why, he didn''t dwell on it.


    "You were expelled from the Dragon Pce. What about your little golden dragon?" Zhong Shan asked.


    At the mention of the little golden dragon, Hao Meili''s face fell, showing rare regret.


    "Little Jin stayed behind in the Dragon Pce to cover my escape!" Hao Meili sighed.


    "Right, my disciple, why did we leave so sneakily? And why did the little golden dragon lead away that group of real dragons?" The Western Poison Emperor asked, puzzled.


    "Hmph, since Ao Sihai treated me this way, I couldn''t let him off easily. I took the Dragon Pce''s Imperial Seal with me!" Hao Meili''s face suddenly turned serious.


    "What? The Dragon Pce''s Imperial Seal?" The Western Poison Emperor''s hand trembled.


    He stared at Hao Meili, looking utterly shocked. He knew she would cause trouble, but not to this extent.


    With a flip of her hand, Hao Meili took out a palm-sized seal, which emitted a five-colored radiance, looking extremely beautiful.


    "My disciple, non-Dragons cannot use this thing at all. Why did you bring it out? This is causing trouble. If Ao Sihai finds out that we stole the Imperial Seal, he''ll be furious," the Western Poison Emperor advised earnestly.


    "So what? Return it? I won''t do that. Let him be furious if he wants to!" Hao Meili said, displeased.


    "But if too much time passes, Ao Sihai will surely notice the Imperial Seal is missing. It is said to be connected to a great secret of the Dragon n. He will track us down based on its aura. It''s better to get rid of it sooner," the Western Poison Emperor urged.


    "No, if we get rid of it, Ao Sihai will still find us!" Hao Meili said firmly.


    "Then what should we do?" the Western Poison Emperor asked anxiously.


    Angering a Heaven''s Limit realm expert would be terrifying.


    Hao Meili frowned, pondering for a moment before suddenly looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, why don''t I give this Imperial Seal to you?" Hao Meili said suddenly.


    Hearing this, the Western Poison Emperor was taken aback, ncing at Zhong Shan with a hint of guilt in his eyes.


    Zhong Shan was also momentarily speechless, looking at Hao Meili.


    "What use is it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I don''t know either. It''s simr to the Imperial Seal of the Heavenly Dynasty. We can''t use it anyway, so you can do whatever you want with it," Hao Meili said, unsure herself.


    Looking at Hao Meili, Zhong Shan felt slightly odd but nodded nheless.


    "Since I''ve given it to you, I''ll stay here with you. What do you think?" Hao Meili immediately said.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan agreed.


    After settling Hao Meili and the Western Poison Emperor in their new residence, Zhong Shan chose to enter seclusion.


    He needed to increase his strength before venturing into the underworld.


    Zhong Shan''s main body entered a secluded hall. Alone, he sat cross-legged andid out three items on his palm.


    Two seals and a small umbre, all ninth-grade magical treasures.


    One was the Imperial Seal of the Dragon Pce. The other two were from Han Jiuguang of the Da Guang Dynasty.


    One was Han Jiuguang''s jade seal, which, being a former emperor, naturally carried the Heavenly Dynasty''s Imperial Seal. Ninth grade! The small umbre was the formation eye used for the brilliant array that enveloped Tianguang City in endless poisonous fog, which was eliminated by a month-long rain.


    These three ninth-grade magical treasures would attract countless powerful cultivators anywhere in the Divine Continent, but in front of Zhong Shan, they were just consumables.


    With a single motion, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail opened its mouth and swallowed the three powerful magical treasures.


    Consuming ninth-grade magical treasures as if they were pills? Perhaps only Zhong Shan in the entire Divine Continent had such audacity.


    The form of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was bing more and more solid. Zhong Shan knew that once it fully matured, it would definitely shock the world.


    After all, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had consumed countless treasures that people dreamed of.


    The digestion system of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was extremely extraordinary. Powerful energy quickly filled Zhong Shan''s entire body.


    At the same time, in the Crystal Pce of the East Sea Dragon Pce.


    Ao Sihai was meditating when he suddenly opened his eyes, a bad premonition quickly spreading through his body. In a sh, he disappeared from his original position.


    Ao Sihai reappeared in another pce.


    Seeing the bare high tform inside, Ao Sihai''s eyes turned blood red.


    "Roar������������������������������������������������

 Chapter 532: Zhong Shan vs. Ao Sihai

    <h4>Chapter 532: Zhong Shan vs. Ao Sihai</h4>


    "Roar����������������������������������


    Ao Sihai tilted his head back and let out a long roar, two prominent blood-red dragon horns suddenly emerging from his head, a clear sign of his extreme rage. The roar shook the entire Dragon Pce.


    Shrimp soldiers and crab generals fell to their knees, countless dragons and serpents trembling in fear. What had happened? Why was their supreme leader so furious?


    After his roar, Ao Sihai forcibly calmed his anger, closed his eyes, and carefully sensed his surroundings. Suddenly, his head snapped up, looking south. It was as if he had sensed the location of the Imperial Seal. With a single step, he disappeared, heading straight for Tiang Ind.


    In the span of ten breaths, the three ninth-grade magical treasures had beenpletely refined into energy by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, which now looked even more solid. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan, while absorbing the energy refined by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, took nearly half a day.


    The powerful and surging energy continuously impacted Zhong Shan''s body, causing his cultivation level to skyrocket.


    Originally at the third stage of the Emperor Extreme Realm, he broke through twice: Emperor Extreme Realm Fourth Stage! Emperor Extreme Realm Fifth Stage!


    Two consecutive breakthroughs! A tremendous harvest, an enormous gain!


    Zhong Shan was extremely satisfied. If only he had more ninth-grade magical treasures!


    Of course, the energy from three ninth-grade magical treasures only allowed him to rise by two stages, which only Zhong Shan would find satisfactory. Anyone else would be infuriated.


    With his increased cultivation, Zhong Shan was in an excellent mood. Dusting off his clothes, he walked out of the hall.


    Meanwhile, Ao Sihai, streaking across the East Sea, suddenly stopped when the Imperial Seal was refined by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    Ao Sihai''s speed was terrifying. Just the sudden stop caused a massive airflow, creating thousand-foot waves in the sea below and a gigantic underwater storm, which copsed several pces in the seabed.


    A dragon general, who was in seclusion and had just reached a critical point in his cultivation, was abruptly interrupted.


    "Boom��������������������������������"


    The underwater storm surged through, copsing the pce and burying the dragon general. A beam fell and struck the dragon general''s delicate nose, causing a nosebleed. The dragon general''s cultivation was interrupted, and his face was filled with immense anger. Who dared to cause such chaos in his territory?


    Furious, the dragon general burst out of the sea, exuding a domineering aura, ready to tear apart whoever had disturbed his cultivation.


    "Bang��������������������������������"


    "Who the hell is stirring up trouble in my territory while I''m at a critical point in my cultivation?" the dragon general roared as he emerged from the sea. He looked up angrily, but as soon as he saw the figure in the sky, he was stunned, and his giant mace fell into the sea with a ssh.


    The Dragon n''s supreme leader? Ao Sihai?


    The dragon general felt like crying. What had he just said? Did he call the supreme leader a turtle bastard?


    He wanted to p himself. The dragon general fearfully knelt on the sea''s surface, prostrating himself.


    "Supreme leader, this lowly one is a fool and didn''t know!" the dragon general said, trembling with fear.


    The dragon general saw that the supreme leader, with his prominent dragon horns, was clearly enraged. He thought he was doomed!


    The terrified dragon general didn''t dare resist and could only await Ao Sihai''s punishment.


    Ao Sihai was furious, his dragon horns protruding again, but his anger wasn''t directed at the kneeling dragon general. In fact, Ao Sihai didn''t even notice the dragon general. He was infuriated because he could no longer sense the Imperial Seal.


    The Imperial Seal held a great secret of the Dragon n. It couldn''t be lost, especially not in his generation. Gone? He couldn''t sense it at all? The supreme aura he left in it was gone?


    What was going on?


    Ao Sihai''s eyes turned blood-red, and the surrounding sea exploded with thousand-foot waves once more.


    The kneeling dragon general was terrified, thinking his life was over.


    As the dragon generalmented, the sea calmed down, but he still didn''t dare to look up.


    He waited and waited until his fear numbed him. Waiting until the moon rose high in the sky, he finally dared to look up and found that the supreme leader was gone.


    Ao Sihai had left, not caring about this minor figure but focusing on the missing Imperial Seal. He furiously rushed towards Tiang Ind, having guessed who took it.


    Hao Meili��it had to be her!


    Thinking of Hao Meili, Ao Sihai''s face twisted with rage.


    "Hao Meili, I will make you regret this!"


    Recalling Hao Meili''s words before she left, Ao Sihai let out a cold snort.


    Zhong Shan had sessfully broken through to the fifth stage of the Emperor Extreme Realm, feeling extremely pleased. He hadn''t realized that his breakthrough had destroyed a great secret of the Dragon n.


    "Congrattions, Your Majesty!" Liu Wushuang respectfully said, waiting outside the hall with a group of people.


    "Did you break through?" Tian Ling''er asked.


    "Of course, look at how pleased he looks," Bao''er said, hugging Tian Ling''er andughing.


    Just as everyone was talking, a massive pressure descended from the sky.


    The overwhelming aura felt like a divine presence, causing almost everyone to feel an urge to kneel in reverence. The immense pressure wasn''t limited to the pce but spread across the entire city of Xuanjing. Almost everyone felt the strong urge to kneel, except for those with strong willpower who barely managed to look up at the sky.


    In the sky above the pce appeared a figure radiating five-colored light.


    A man, exuding dominance, dressed in a crystal blue scaled robe, wearing ck jade cloud boots, his eyes ring with anger, and two prominent dragon horns on his forehead pointing towards the sky.


    This man''s aura covered the entire city of Xuanjing.


    "Who goes there?" came the call from the pce guards.


    The man ignored the guards and fixed his gaze on a particr pce. Suddenly, two figures flew out from that pce, heading straight towards Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan! There''s an intruder in your pce," Hao Meili called out from afar.


    Hao Meili and the Western Poison Emperor flew to Zhong Shan''s side.


    Looking at Hao Meili, Zhong Shan was momentarily speechless. An intruder?


    The person in the sky could only be the supreme leader of the Dragon n, Ao Sihai. The reason for his visit was obvious: Hao Meili had provoked him.


    Upon arriving, Ao Sihai locked his gaze on Hao Meili, and then quickly released his divine sense to search for the Imperial Seal. Despite his pure and powerful divine sense at the Heaven''s Limit level, he couldn''t detect a trace of it.


    What was going on? Where was the Imperial Seal? The supreme aura he left in it was gone?


    Unable to find it, Ao Sihai''s gaze turned cold as he looked at Hao Meili.


    "Hao Meili, where is the Imperial Seal?" Ao Sihai demanded, his tone leaving no room for doubt.


    "What do you intend to do, Ao Sihai? Do you n to silence me?" Hao Meili retorted instead of answering.


    Proud Hao Meili would never bow to anyone, not even Ao Sihai. Instinctively sensing danger, she immediately ran to Zhong Shan because she had heard the Western Poison Emperor say that Ao Sihai wouldn''t dare harm Zhong Shan.


    "Where is the Imperial Seal?" Ao Sihai repeated, his urgency evident.


    "I don''t know!" Hao Meili stubbornly refused to admit anything.


    "You''re not going to tell me?" Ao Sihai said angrily.


    With a single motion, Ao Sihai pointed, sending a blue beam of light shooting towards Hao Meili.


    In an instant, Zhong Shan reached out, grabbed Hao Meili''s arm, and pulled her behind him, ring up at Ao Sihai.


    The blue beam shot towards Zhong Shan, but as it reached him, a phantom appeared around Zhong Shan, like a mouth, swallowing the blue beam whole, then disappeared back into his body.


    "Ao Sihai, I respect you as a senior, but the Great Zheng Pce is not a ce for you to run wild!" Zhong Shan shouted angrily.


    His words were direct and showed no politeness.


    The Western Poison Emperor was in disbelief. He couldn''t believe Zhong Shan dared to confront Ao Sihai. He had told his disciple that Ao Sihai couldn''t harm Zhong Shan because of Di Xuansha, but Di Xuansha wasn''t here. Zhong Shan had guts!


    Hao Meili, on the other hand, looked at Zhong Shan with bright eyes.


    Ao Sihai hadn''t paid attention to anyone else when he arrived, not even Zhong Shan. To him, Zhong Shan, at the Emperor Extreme Realm, was nothing. He hadn''t expected someone to dare confront him, and even effortlessly neutralize his attack.


    His eyes turned cold as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan stood his ground, meeting Ao Sihai''s gaze without fear.


    An emperor must have the courage to face heaven and earth. Even if his cultivation wasn''t as high, he couldn''t show any fear. He had to stand firm.


    Zhong Shan practiced the Dao of the Emperor and would not harbor any thoughts of fear. In such situations, he could not be weak.


    "And who do you think you are?" Ao Sihai asked coldly.


    Ao Sihai could see a faint aura of luck around Zhong Shan, an invisible dragon aura that hadn''t yet fully formed��a precursor to bing an emperor. However, in the presence of the supreme leader of the Dragon n, what did that matter? Even an emperor wouldn''t dare confront him like this.


    "I am the ruler of the Great Zheng Dynasty, Zhong Shan! And who do you think you are?" Zhong Shan retorted coldly.


    Zhong Shan''s retort angered Ao Sihai. Who in the world dared to question him like that?


    "Brat, you dare!" Ao Sihai roared. A terrifying aura surged towards Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan stood firm, fully alert. At this moment, his main body and shadow body werebined, putting him in his peak state.


    Inside his Purple Mansion, the ck jade talisman, the Wheel of Reincarnation, and the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail were all ready to be unleashed.


    The overwhelming pressure of a Heaven''s Limit level expert bore down on everyone, making them struggle to stand.


    "Hmph����������������������������������������������


    In the imperial pce, a sudden cold snort echoed, instantly dispelling the oppressive aura from all directions. Just one cold snort effortlessly neutralized the overwhelming pressure of Ao Sihai''s formidable presence.


    Ao Sihai''s eyes narrowed, recognizing the presence of a powerful being, an extraordinary master, one whose strength rivaled his own.


    "Di Xuansha!" Ao Sihai spat the name with venom.

 Chapter 533: Impropriety

    <h4>Chapter 533: Impropriety</h4>


    "Di Xuansha!" Ao Sihai spat the name with venom.


    Among the Dragon n, if there was anyone they both hated and feared the most, it was undoubtedly the unassuming supreme of the Wolf n, Di Xuansha.


    The previous Dragon n supreme had been immensely powerful, a figure of great ambition and dominating presence, but he had ultimately encountered the perverse Di Xuansha.


    Di Xuansha had not ascended to immortality, yet he had forced the previous Dragon n supreme into ascension. Why do most Heavenly Extreme Realm experts wait until their lifespan is almost exhausted before facing the Heavenly Tribtion? It''s not that they fear death; they simply do not want to leave the Small Thousand World. Once out, re-entry is difficult.


    The Great Thousand World has its advantages, but so does the Small Thousand World. The longer one stays in the Small Thousand World, the higher their future achievements in the Great Thousand World. For instance, when Gu Shentong opened the heavens and the earth, those strands of primordial purple energy were unique to the Small Thousand World.


    Moreover, only those in the Small Thousand World have the honor of creating the world; the people of the Great Thousand World have no such opportunity. After the creation of the world, the benefits are such that countless inhabitants of the Great Thousand World are filled with envy.


    This allows for the cultivation of sessors, among many other advantages. The previous Dragon n supreme lost all these benefits because of Di Xuansha.


    To be able to force the first demon of the world, the Dragon n supreme, out of the Small Thousand World speaks volumes of Di Xuansha''s unparalleled strength.


    After this incident, no one in the world dared to underestimate Di Xuansha.


    Though the Heavenly Extreme Realm experts had not fought each other, none dared to provoke Di Xuansha. How could Ao Sihai not hate him? The previous Dragon n supreme was Ao Sihai''s master, forced into exile. During the years without a supreme, the Dragon n nearly faced extinction. Moreover, he had just been humiliated. And now, Di Xuansha was opposing him again?


    On the za below, behind Zhong Shan, three figures suddenly appeared.


    The first was Di Xuansha himself, dressed in simple white robes, appearing in and unassuming, like a return to simplicity, showing no hint of his immense power.


    Behind Di Xuansha stood a man and a woman.


    The man was the Wolf n''s Wolf King, Sha Po!


    The woman was youthful and beautiful, with a pair of white, furry wolf ears. She wore a charming fox fur hat, a white furry vest, and matching white furry shorts, exuding an air of nobility. Her wrists were adorned with white furry bracelets, adding a touch of mischief to her elegance. She wore long leather boots that entuated her slender legs, giving her an air of grace.


    The man and woman stood behind Di Xuansha. Sha Po nced at Zhong Shan, his eyes shing withplex emotions, while the beautiful woman yfully smiled at Zhong Shan.


    Di Xuansha, hands behind his back, looked up at the sky.


    "Ao Sihai, you have overstepped your bounds!" Di Xuansha said calmly.


    Overstepped bounds indeed. Tiang Ind was Di Xuansha''s territory. Ao Sihai, as the Dragon n supreme, had ventured into the Wolf n supreme''s domain, clearly overstepping.


    Ao Sihai red at Di Xuansha, longing to strike him down with a single blow, but hecked the courage. To oppose Di Xuansha would mean reigniting the war between the Wolf n and the Dragon n, a conflict that would end only with mutual destruction.


    As a n''s supreme, Ao Sihai had to consider all aspects. He could only re at Di Xuansha with intense hatred.


    "Di Xuansha, don''t think I fear you. I will make you pay for my master''s vengeance!" Ao Sihai dered venomously.


    A profound and intense hatred red in Ao Sihai''s eyes.


    "Finished speaking? Then why don''t you leave!" Di Xuansha said with utter indifference.


    Seeing Di Xuansha''s nonchnt attitude, Ao Sihai clenched his fist, nearly unable to restrain himself from striking. Yet, the responsibilities of his n held him back.


    "I came here to reim the Dragon n''s ancestral seal. Hand it over, and I will leave immediately!" Ao Sihai took a step back.


    The ancestral seal? Di Xuansha frowned and turned to look at Zhong Shan. His previous domineering demeanor seemed to soften as if he, too, was willing topromise.


    "The ancestral seal isn''t with me!" Hao Meili shouted immediately.


    Zhong Shan noticed Di Xuansha''s expression and realized there might be more to the story. Di Xuansha wasn''t afraid of Ao Sihai, so whypromise over the ancestral seal?


    "The Great Zhen Dynasty does not possess what you seek," Zhong Shan said timely.


    Indeed, it wasn''t there. The seal had been consumed and absorbed into energy by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. How could it still exist?


    Ao Sihai''s eyes widened, staring intently at Zhong Shan. Not here? Hisst sensing of the seal indicated it was right here. How could it be gone? Was it hidden?


    The ancestral seal, being a top-tier treasure, couldn''t be stored in a regr storage bracelet. Where had it gone? Why couldn''t he sense it?


    Ao Sihai''s eyes shed with anxiety.


    Di Xuansha looked at Zhong Shan with an unexpected gaze and then said, "Alright, if they don''t have your item, then leave."


    Ao Sihai''s anger red at Di Xuansha''s words.


    "Hao Meili,e with me!" Ao Sihai demanded.


    "I''m not going anywhere with you!" Hao Meili refused bluntly.


    "What?" Ao Sihai''s eyes filled with rage as he reached out to grab Hao Meili.


    Ao Sihai believed Hao Meili had taken the seal, so capturing her should force its return. However, with Hao Meili standing beside Di Xuansha, attempting to seize her without regard for Di Xuansha''s presence was unthinkable.


    Di Xuansha''s eyes narrowed as Ao Sihai''s hand extended.


    "ROLL!"


    With a thunderous roar, Di Xuansha nullified Ao Sihai''s attackpletely.


    Ao Sihai, countering Di Xuansha''s attack, turned to face him directly. Their gazes locked in a fierce standoff, neither moving.


    After a moment, as if realizing something, Ao Sihai turned and shot a deep look at Hao Meili.


    "Hmph!"


    With a cold snort, Ao Sihai flicked his sleeve and vanished.


    Di Xuansha watched him leave, a cold smile ying on his lips.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan said, looking at Di Xuansha.


    Di Xuansha shook his head, saying, "Ao Sihaicks his master''s domineering spirit."


    Then, Di Xuansha turned to Zhong Shan and asked solemnly, "Is the Dragon Pce''s ancestral seal truly not with you?"


    Zhong Shan was slightly surprised. "I said, the Great Zhen Dynasty does not possess the Dragon Pce''s ancestral seal," he reiterated.


    Di Xuansha gave Zhong Shan a meaningful look and said, "It better not be. Remember, do not touch that ancestral seal!"


    "Why?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "That object is not just a token for the Dragon n. It''s a key��a key to the Dragon n''s secret realm. For that ancestral seal, Ao Sihai would give up his life," Di Xuansha exined.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan''s face twitched.


    A key? A key to the Dragon n''s secret realm? Something worth risking one''s life for?


    How could Zhong Shan respond to this? The seal had already been consumed andpletely digested by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. It was gone for good. The Dragon n was destined for disappointment.


    Di Xuansha, having finished his exnation, chose not to dwell on the matter further.


    At this moment, the beautiful woman behind Di Xuansha suddenly turned her gaze towards Tian Ling''er. Sensing the look, Tian Ling''er turned to see the woman smiling at her.


    Tian Ling''er frowned in confusion. Before she could react, the woman leaped in front of her and hugged her tightly in front of everyone.


    "Your face is so smooth! I''ve wanted to kiss it for ages!" the woman eximed.


    Before Tian Ling''er could respond, the woman nted a kiss on her cheek.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    Tian Ling''er screamed in shock, struggling free from the woman''s embrace and quickly hiding behind Zhong Shan, looking as if she had encountered a rogue.


    Qian You chuckled softly, while Bao''er raised an eyebrow, then seemed to realize something and also smiled mischievously.


    Zhong Shan was speechless as he looked at the woman in front of him.


    "Don''t run away!" the woman called out, chasing after the trembling Tian Ling''er like a wolf chasing its prey.


    Tian Ling''er was horrified. To be hugged and kissed by a strange woman��her anger was understandable. And now she wasing back for more?


    "Zhong Shan, kill this pervert!" Tian Ling''er screamed, demanding Zhong Shan punish the woman.


    "Xianxian, stop messing around!" Zhong Shan said, exasperated.


    Yes, kill this pervert��wait, what had Zhong Shan called her? Xianxian?


    Xianxian?


    Tian Ling''er seemed to forget about the earlier impropriety, staring wide-eyed at the beautiful woman in front of her. Xianxian? Little Wolf Xianxian? The young mistress of the Wolf n?


    Indeed, Little Wolf Xianxian had once lived in the pce, inseparable from the other women. She had only left to return to Di Xuansha''s side to breakthrough. Xianxian was closest to Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er among them.


    On the one hand, she got along well with Tian Ling''er. On the other hand, Tian Ling''er had yed a part in saving Xianxian, asking Zhong Shan to spare her.


    "Xianxian? Are you Xianxian?" Tian Ling''er eximed.


    The woman suddenly raised her right hand, clenching and unclenching her fingers in a familiar gesture.


    Seeing the gesture, Tian Ling''er''s doubts vanished. This was a gesture she had taught Xianxian.


    "Ah, you really are Xianxian!" Tian Ling''er jumped out excitedly, all tension gone, reced by enthusiasm.


    "That''s for scaring me! And this too!" Tian Ling''er started yfully hitting Xianxian.


    Xianxian responded by running away in yful retreat.


    Watching the two women, Zhong Shan was speechless, while Di Xuansha was equally helpless.


    "Bao''er, take them away for now," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Alright," Bao''er nodded.


    She quickly led the others away. Hao Meili nced at Zhong Shan, a strange look in her eyes. Western Poison Emperor, noticing Zhong Shan had something to discuss with Di Xuansha, also hurriedly pulled Hao Meili along.


    In no time, everyone had left, leaving only Zhong Shan, Di Xuansha, and Sha Po.


    "You intend to open the Path of Yin and Yang?" Di Xuansha asked Zhong Shan directly.


    Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    "I had dealings with the previous y Bodhisattva, so I know some things. You obtained the Taiji Diagram and are now setting up the Yin Yang Hall. It''s not hard to guess," Di Xuansha exined.

 Chapter 534: Nine Enter the Underworld

    <h4>Chapter 534: Nine Enter the Underworld</h4>


    "Indeed, it is the Path of Yin and Yang!" Zhong Shan no longer hid the truth.


    "The Path of Yin and Yang? The Gate Between Two Worlds? Truly, everything you do is grandiose. If this bes known, most of the Heavenly Extreme Realm experts will surely gather here!" Di Xuansha sighed deeply.


    "Because this is the Great Zhen!" Zhong Shan simply replied. At this moment, false modesty would be hypocritical.


    "The Great Zhen, what a Great Zhen indeed!" Di Xuansha nodded approvingly.


    "You didn''te here just to ask about the Path of Yin and Yang, did you?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No, there is something I need your help with," Di Xuansha replied.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was puzzled.


    "Take Xianxian with you!" Di Xuansha said solemnly.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    "Without experiencing trials, one cannot be a supreme. I became the Wolf n supreme through ughter, but Xianxian has not," Di Xuansha exined.


    "Wouldn''t it be better for her to stay in Shenzhou?" Zhong Shan pondered. Allowing Xianxian to grow was understandable, but what if she encountered danger in the underworld?


    "Hehe, do you know about the primordial bloodlines of the demon ns?" Di Xuansha asked.


    "You possess the primordial bloodline of the wolf n. Only with a primordial bloodline can one sign the wolf n contract," Zhong Shan mused.


    "Hehe," Di Xuansha shook his head.


    "Have you heard of the ssification of zombies?" Di Xuansha continued.


    Zhong Shan furrowed his brows.


    "Zombies are ssified into first-generation, second-generation, and so on, ording to the purity of their bloodline. The higher the bloodline, the stronger the power, the better the talent, and even the ability to control zombies with lower bloodlines. It''s simr to a hierarchy, with higher bloodlines being more noble and lower bloodlines being inferior," Di Xuansha exined.


    Zhong Shan nodded.


    "In fact, it''s the same for the major demon ns. Is my bloodline a primordial one? No, my bloodline is the best, the highest in the entire wolf n. All other wolf n bloodlines are inferior to mine; I possess the primordial bloodline," Di Xuansha said gravely.


    "Huh?"


    "I attained my current primordial bloodline through cultivation, purifying and upgrading my bloodline. But I must tell you, among the wolf n bloodlines in the Great Thousand World, there are still those more advanced and powerful than mine. As for Xianxian, her bloodline is naturally noble, far superior to mine!" Di Xuansha said with admiration.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was shocked.


    "Why is she the young mistress of the wolf n? She is not my only descendant, but she was designated as the young mistress at birth due to her bloodline," Di Xuansha exined.


    Sha Po, standing nearby, nodded.


    "What about the Dragon n?" Zhong Shan seemed to think of something.


    "The Dragon n? Hehe, that little girl, uh, Hao Meili, the little golden dragon by her side is one of the Dragon n''s young masters. His bloodline was extremely high even in his youth, making him more noble than many dragon kings despite his low cultivation," Di Xuansha exined.


    "How high can a noble bloodline go? If Xianxian''s bloodline is higher than yours, does that mean as long as she grows, her future achievements will surpass yours?" Zhong Shan asked, staring at Di Xuansha.


    "Indeed!" Di Xuansha nodded.


    Zhong Shan sighed slightly, realizing the tremendous influence of the alien bloodlines.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan seemed to think of something.


    "Life? Is your bloodline your life, your fate?" Zhong Shan asked in astonishment.


    Di Xuansha suddenly smiled. "Indeed, our fate resides within our blood. It''s quiteplex, and even I haven''t fully grasped it. Embedding fate in blood is the practice of countless races. Most demon ns are like this, zombies too. Perhaps when you enter the underworld, you''ll encounter others like the Blood n, the Asuras, and the Witches, all embedding their fate in their blood. The higher the quality of the blood, the nobler the fate. Ascension to immortality is merely the transformation of fate into an immortal destiny," Di Xuansha exined.


    Zhong Shan listened intently, memorizing every word before nodding.


    "Are there other ways to embed fate?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, some embed it in the soul, like ghosts and undead. These are rare on the Shenzhou Continent, but you might see them in the underworld. The Great Thousand World is full of wonders. I can''t exin it all," Di Xuansha said.


    "The Great Thousand World is full of wonders?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath. It seemed he still knew very little about the world.


    "Fate: one fate, two luck, three feng shui, four umted virtue, five fame. Fatees first and has always been an eternal topic," Di Xuansha sighed.


    "Fate? Yes, fate," Zhong Shan nodded, filled with emotion.


    "Xianxian''s bloodline is higher than mine, meaning her fate is nobler. Ascension to immortality is inevitable for her. She just needs to increase her cultivation; the rest will follow naturally. The Great Thousand World is a harsher ce. If Xianxian remains sheltered, like a flower at home, she will find it difficult to soar in the future. Take her to the underworld to experience the trials of life and death," Di Xuansha said.


    "Are there wolf ns in the underworld?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "There are, but the wolves in the underworld don''t follow mymands. Xianxian will have to subdue them herself. I''ll set a goal for her: to subdue all the wolves in the Small Thousand World''s underworld and be the supreme of the underworld''s wolf n," Di Xuansha asserted.


    "It sounds like the underworld is quite chaotic," Zhong Shanughed.


    "Chaotic? No, it''s just that the rules differ from those in the living world. In the underworld, wolf ns fight independently without a supreme leader, yet they can still dominate their regions. In the living world, without a supreme leader, the wolf n would face extinction," Di Xuansha exined.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Alright, I''ll take Xianxian to the underworld," Zhong Shan agreed.


    Satisfied with Zhong Shan''s response, Di Xuansha nodded.


    Turning, Di Xuansha looked at Sha Po.


    Sha Po immediately knelt on one knee, showing utmost respect.


    "Sha Po, the Wolf King, at the Emperor Extreme Realm, will now serve as your personal guard, following your orders," Di Xuansha said.


    The Emperor Extreme Realm! To give away such a powerful figure as if he were amodity? This honor was likely reserved only for the emperors of the Shenzhou Continent.


    An Emperor Extreme Realm bodyguard? Zhong Shan nced at Di Xuansha, finding it hard to believe.


    Di Xuansha seemed pleased with Zhong Shan''s astonishment.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan nodded, "Thank you!"


    Having Sha Po specifically follow his orders was different from summoning an Emperor Extreme Realm wolf. A summoned wolf could abandon its master in life-or-death situations and disregard Zhong Shan afterward. Sha Po''s loyalty was assured, making Zhong Shan''s gratitude genuine.


    "Good," Di Xuansha nodded.


    Six monthster, one day.


    Zhong Shan sat at his desk in his study as the Mud Buddha entered.


    "Your Majesty, the Yin-Yang Hall isplete, and the Yin-Yang Path formation can be activated at any time!" the Mud Buddha reported.


    "Good! Excellent work!" Zhong Shan said excitedly.


    "It is my duty," the Mud Buddha replied, bowing.


    "Very well. In ten days, we will officially open the Yin-Yang Path," Zhong Shan decided.


    "Understood!" The Mud Buddha nodded and left.


    After the Mud Buddha departed, Zhong Shan informed his closest confidants of the news and then retreated into seclusion. His seclusion was not for intense cultivation but rather for the preparation of his two bodies.


    To enter the underworld, Zhong Shan decided to send his shadow body, as it had more advantages in the underworld, while his true body would remain in the living world to govern the Great Zhen Dynasty.


    In the secret chamber, Zhong Shan''s true body took out a precious object��an obsidian talisman. This was a ghostly artifact, surpassing the level of a ninth-grade treasure.


    The shadow body received it and integrated it into his body, storing it within his inner sanctuary. Being one person, the ritual of refining the obsidian talisman posed no obstacles.


    As for other treasures, Zhong Shan chose not to distribute them further.


    Zhong Shan''s true body possessed: the Fangtian Seal, the Investiture of the Gods, the Nightmare de, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, and the Red Luan Pink Lotus.


    Zhong Shan''s shadow body possessed: the Obsidian Talisman, the Bat Bag, the Undying Sword, Shadow Clones, and the Eyes of Reincarnation.


    Ten dayster, in front of the Yin-Yang Hall, all the guards and attendants were dismissed. Those remaining were Zhong Shan''s closest associates.


    The group selected to enter the underworld included Zhong Shan''s shadow body, Wei Taizhong, Mr. Corpse, Lin Xiao, Xianxian, Sha Po, Hao Meili, and the Western Poison Emperor. This was Zhong Shan''s final selection.


    Wei Taizhong and Xianxian had been preselected, while Sha Po was chosen for his strength, essential for navigating the chaotic underworld. Mr. Corpse''s familiarity with the underworld made his inclusion necessary. Lin Xiao was brought to help establish a faction within the underworld.


    As for Hao Meili and the Western Poison Emperor, Zhong Shan included them out of necessity. Ao Sihai was surely watching them, and once they left Tiang Ind, they would likely be captured. Being a man of clear enmity and gratitude, Zhong Shan sought to protect them.


    The group was both eager and curious about entering the underworld and found the sight of two identical Zhong Shans slightly unsettling. Though they knew of Zhong Shan''s clone, seeing it in person was still bizarre. Even Tian Ling''er and the other women seemed hesitant to approach, afraid of touching the wrong Zhong Shan.


    "Alright, let''s enter the Yin-Yang Hall," Zhong Shan''s shadow body announced.


    "Wait a moment!" Mr. Corpse suddenly interjected.


    Everyone turned their gaze to him.


    With a flip of his hand, Mr. Corpse produced a small bottle and approached Zhong Shan''s true body.


    "Your Majesty, this bottle contains the Soul Condensation Elixir fromst time. If you absorb it before death, your soul will solidify into a ghost. There are sixty drops in total. Keep them for use in the living world," Mr. Corpse exined.


    This was a valuable item, the same elixir that turned Han Ji Guang into a ghost, enduring sunlight without ever moving on. With this elixir, Zhong Shan could create sixty ghosts, ensuring that the Great Zhen''s top generals would serve even after death.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded, epting the bottle.


    Then, the nine entered the Yin-Yang Hall, and the grand doors mmed shut.

 Chapter 535: Ancient Battlefield of the Underworld

    <h4>Chapter 535: Ancient Battlefield of the Underworld</h4>


    As the doors closed, Tian Ling''er stared in a daze.


    "Zhong Shan, you both look exactly alike," Tian Ling''er said, still shaken by the uncanny feeling.


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    "We are one person, of course we look identical!" Zhong Shan replied, exasperated.


    The women: "..."


    Inside the Yin-Yang Hall, the doors were tightly shut, and the nine stood waiting for the Yin-Yang Path to open. Strange symbols were carved on the ground, walls, and ceiling. Sixteen purple-gold dragons were positioned around the hall, facing its center.


    In the middle of the hall was the Taiji Diagram brought by Zhong Shan. The Taiji Diagram was slowly rotating, emitting a soft green and white light. As it turned, it seemed to fill the surrounding symbols with energy, causing them to pulse.


    The Mud Buddha stepped forward and touched the eyes of the yin-yang fish on the Taiji Diagram. Instantly, the diagram spun faster, bing a blur of green and white light. The sixteen purple-gold dragons exhaled yellow energy toward the Taiji Diagram.


    The collision of the green and white light with the yellow energy created a perfectly square portal. Beyond the portal was pitch ck, revealing nothing.


    "Let''s go," the Mud Buddha said, stepping through the portal first.


    Zhong Shan looked at the door and then followed. The others stepped through as well.


    As Zhong Shan experienced the peculiar sensation, it reminded him of the small temple that led to the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    "Whoosh!"


    They emerged, finding themselves back in the Yin-Yang Hall.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was slightly confused.


    The group realized they had returned to the same hall they had just left.


    "This is the underworld," the Mud Buddha announced.


    "No, this is still the same Yin-Yang Hall," Hao Meili eximed.


    "This is the underworld. I built two Yin-Yang Halls, one in the living world and one in the underworld. When the Yin-Yang Path opened, the second Yin-Yang Hall was simultaneously transferred to the underworld. The outside world is now the underworld," the Mud Buddha exined.


    "So, this means we can establish a fixed teleportation point?" Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up.


    "Your Majesty is wise!" the Mud Buddha replied, clearly pleased.


    "Let''s open the door and see for ourselves!" Xianxian suggested, quickly pushing the door open.


    The grand doors of the Yin-Yang Hall swung open. The group eagerly peered outside, full of anticipation. What would the underworld be like?


    "ck, ck, ck, ck..."


    As soon as the doors opened, a rattling sound filled the air, and a dozen skeletal figures rushed inside.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    Xianxian screamed and jumped back in terror. Despite her martial prowess, she was still a girl raised like a delicate flower in a greenhouse. Seeing a dozen skeletons rushing at her right as she opened the door was a horrifying sight.


    "Boom!"


    Sha Po unleashed his aura, sending the skeletons flying. Xianxian, having regained herposure, stuck out her tongue in embarrassment.


    A wave of Yin energy surged in as soon as the door opened, making everyone feel a chilling presence. While Xianxian frowned at the unpleasant sensation, Mr. Corpse closed his eyes and took a deep breath, savoring the energy.


    "Let''s go!" Zhong Shanmanded, stepping out of the hall, followed closely by the others.


    As they exited the hall, Zhong Shan took a deep breath. The underworld was vastly different from the living world.


    Before them stood a towering mountain surrounded by smaller hills. Below, the ground was covered with endless white bones. It looked like a scene from hell, or rather, the underworld''s inferno.


    Countless skeletons roamed aimlessly over the sea of bones. They moved with no clear purpose, creating an eerie atmosphere.


    Suddenly, many skeletons seemed to sense something and turned towards the Yin-Yang Hall, slowly approaching Zhong Shan and his group.


    More skeletons gathered, quickly surrounding the hall.


    Sha Po once again unleashed his powerful aura, sending dozens of skeletons flying. As an Emperor Extreme Realm expert, his strength was formidable in both the living world and the underworld. His aura kept the skeletons at bay.


    In the distance, Zhong Shan noticed not only human-shaped skeletons but also horse-shaped and wolf-shaped ones. They all seemed tock intelligence.


    "This must be an ancient battlefield!" Mr. Corpse spected.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan turned to Mr. Corpse.


    "Your Majesty, do you remember when I summoned endless skeletons to fight during the eight-gate golden lock formation at the Yin Moon Dynasty?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "Yes."


    "That was an ancient battlefield. The ground was filled with countless corpses that had decayed, leaving only bones. In the living world, the Yin energy is weak, so those bones couldn''t absorb much Yin energy. But here in the underworld, surrounded by Yin energy, ancient battlefields over time can absorb this energy, creating skeletons that move around. However, it''s difficult for them to develop intelligence, so they just wander around this area," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Is the Yin energy here heavier than in other ces?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes," Mr. Corpse confirmed.


    Zhong Shan looked at the surrounding skeletons and nodded. With his courage, these undead creatures posed no real threat.


    "What''s that in the sky? The sun? The moon?" Xianxian asked, puzzled as she looked up.


    Everyone looked up and saw a sky filled with stars and arge red object that was hard to identify as either the sun or the moon.


    "That''s the Red Moon," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "In the living world, we have the Golden Sun and Silver Moon, but in the underworld, it''s the Purple Sun and Red Moon. Both realms have sun and moon, just in different forms," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "So that''s the moon of the underworld?" Xianxian took a deep breath.


    "Your Majesty, as I mentioned in the living world, my lineage, the Mud Buddha, has left some things in certain ces in the underworld. I need to retrieve them. It will take no more than three years, and I will return to reunite with you," the Mud Buddha suddenly said to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan, understanding the importance of the request, nodded without hesitation.


    "The Yin-Yang Hall here must be protected. It''s our passage between the two realms," the Mud Buddha bowed slightly.


    "Don''t worry. This hall is our lifeline between worlds. I will protect it well," Zhong Shan reassured.


    With another bow, the Mud Buddha soared into the sky and flew off in a chosen direction.


    As the Mud Buddha departed, Mr. Corpse watched him with a deep, contemtive look. Among everyone, aside from Zhong Shan, the Mud Buddha was the person Mr. Corpse found most inscrutable.


    "The Yin-Yang Path, a feng shui master..." Mr. Corpse murmured, taking in a breath of the Yin energy.


    "Zhong Shan, my master and I will also be leaving now," Hao Meili suddenly spoke up.


    "Eh?" Zhong Shan looked at her in surprise.


    "Why not stay with us?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "I don''t need your pity!" Hao Meili retorted stubbornly.


    Pity? Hao Meili could see that Zhong Shan was helping her out of fear that she would be captured by Ao Sihai. While there was nothing worthwhile in the living world for her, descending to the underworld provided an opportunity. Once she grew stronger, she nned to return and make Ao Sihai and the entire Dragon n pay.


    Though she felt a bit grateful for Zhong Shan''s help, her pride made her reject the idea of being pitied. Hao Meili was proud and did not want to feel indebted to anyone.


    The Western Poison Emperor beside her smiled wryly.


    Seeing through Hao Meili''s thoughts, Zhong Shan sighed and took out a white jade que.


    "Since you want to explore, be careful. Besides Heavenly Extreme Realm experts, no one can stop you. If you need help,e to me. This is an ancient ''Heavenly Evil Curse'' technique I came across. It''s said that your constitution is immune to curse bacshes. Study it; it might help you deal with Ao Sihai," Zhong Shan said, handing her the jade que.


    The Heavenly Evil Curse was a powerful spellbook, a legacy of the Crystal Demon, although the demon had met a pitiful end at the hands of the Dark Emperor. The spellbook eventually ended up with Zhong Shan.


    Hao Meili nced at Zhong Shan with aplicated expression but epted the que without protest.


    "Remember, Zhong Shan, you must help me obtain the remaining twenty-two Immortal Monuments," Hao Meili insisted.


    "Rest assured," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Master, let''s go!" Hao Meili said, as if she were the master instead of the Western Poison Emperor.


    The Western Poison Emperor gave a helpless smile, said a brief farewell, and then followed Hao Meili as they swiftly flew away.


    "Your Majesty, I believe it will take some time to establish a firm foothold here. I would like to scout the surrounding regions first," Wei Taizhong suddenly said, bowing.


    "Why do you want to leave too?" Xianxian frowned.


    Zhong Shan looked at Wei Taizhong and sighed, "Be careful."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," Wei Taizhong bowed deeply once more.


    With that, Wei Taizhong also flew off in a chosen direction.


    In an instant, four people had left. Only Zhong Shan, Xianxian, Sha Po, Mr. Corpse, and Lin Xiao remained.


    Watching the departures, Xianxian pouted her adorable lips.


    The remaining three looked at Zhong Shan, awaiting his instructions.


    "Sha Po, scout the surroundings and establish our position here!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Sha Po replied and flew up to start his reconnaissance.


    Having an Emperor Extreme Realm expert as a scout was a luxury only Zhong Shan could afford.


    "Mr. Corpse, can you control these skeletons?" Zhong Shan turned to Mr. Corpse.

 Chapter 536: Skeleton King

    <h4>Chapter 536: Skeleton King</h4>


    "Mr. Corpse, can you control these skeletons?" Zhong Shan turned to Mr. Corpse.


    "Controlling these skeletons is not difficult," Mr. Corpse replied.


    "Control them and ensure they do not attack the Yin-Yang Hall. We must prevent any outsiders from destroying it," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood!" Mr. Corpse nodded.


    Mr. Corpse then took to the sky, his sleeves billowing as ck mist poured from them, spreading in all directions. As the ck mist touched the skeletons, they immediately froze, ceasing all movement.


    Mr. Corpse continued flying, dispersing the ck mist to control the numerous skeletons.


    Zhong Shan, Lin Xiao, and Xianxian stood in front of the Yin-Yang Hall.


    Zhong Shan''s priority was to ensure the absolute safety of the Yin-Yang Hall. This hall was the critical link to the living world, and it could not bepromised.


    "Zhong Shan, what do you want these skeletons to do? Protect the Yin-Yang Hall?" Xianxian asked curiously.


    "Protection is secondary. The primary goal is to ensure they do not attack the hall. We will eventually leave here, and the Yin-Yang Hall must remain hidden. Just as there are feng shui masters in the living world, there are simr experts here in the underworld," Zhong Shan exined.


    At that moment, Mr. Corpse suddenly flew back, looking grave.


    "Your Majesty!" Mr. Corpse called out.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan noticed Mr. Corpse''s worried expression.


    "Your Majesty, I have discovered a cocoon of death energy," Mr. Corpse said with a frown.


    "Oh? Where?"


    "What is a cocoon of death energy?" Xianxian asked, puzzled.


    "It''s in that mountain hollow, where the Yin energy is most concentrated. A cocoon of death energy might contain some treasure or a fierce entity in seclusion. It uses death energy to seal whatever is inside," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Isn''t that simr to a formation or a restriction?" Xianxian asked, confused.


    "No, it''s different. A formation or restriction istes the inside from the outside, whereas a cocoon of death energy doesn''t. It absorbs death energy from the outside world to supply the powerful being or treasure within," Mr. Corpse rified.


    "Lin Xiao, stay here and alert us if anything happens. Let''s go take a look!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao replied promptly.


    Zhong Shan and Xianxian quickly followed Mr. Corpse as they flew away from the Yin-Yang Hall. It didn''t take long for them to reach the mountain hollow.


    The hollow seemed ordinary at first nce, with fewer skeletons around.


    Zhong Shan looked at Mr. Corpse, who quickly released more ck mist from his sleeve. The mist enveloped the hollow, revealing a deep, dark hole within, swirling with thick death energy. Around the hole stood a dozen skeletons d in metal armor, seemingly guarding the entrance.


    "Your Majesty, do you see those skeletons? Their bones are mostly silver, and that leader-like skeleton is golden," Mr. Corpse pointed out cautiously.


    "A gold skeleton?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, gold skeletons and silver skeletons have intelligence. Silver skeletons are roughly equivalent to human Nascent Soul stage cultivators, while gold skeletons possess Emperor Extreme Realm strength. With such powerful skeletons guarding this ce, whatever lies within that dark hole must be incredibly valuable or a powerful entity," Mr. Corpse said, concerned.


    "Intelligence? But the gold skeleton hasn''t detected us," Xianxian noted.


    Mr. Corpse shook his head. "That''s because the cocoon of death energy isn''t fully activated. They can''t sense us. The mist I released allowed us to see them."


    Zhong Shan squinted, focusing on the dark hole.


    "Your Majesty, what should we do? Should we open it?" Mr. Corpse swallowed nervously.


    "Open it!" Zhong Shanmanded without hesitation.


    He could not allow potential threats so close to the Yin-Yang Hall to remain unchecked. What exactly were these golden skeletons guarding?


    Zhong Shan and Xianxian retreated to a nearby hill while Mr. Corpse prepared. He took out a wooden knife, cut his palm to draw blood, and began chanting an eerie incantation. As he flung the knife into the air, it glowed brightly, descending like a zing sun towards the mountain hollow, dissolving the death energy and dispersing the Yin energy.


    With a loud crack, the cocoon of death energy split open, revealing sixteen skeletons whose eye sockets suddenly glowed with a ghostly blue light.


    "ck!"


    The skeletons, as if waking from an ancient slumber, raised their heads simultaneously, their gaze fixed on the wooden knife. They lifted their weapons, standing guard before the dark hole, facing Mr. Corpse.


    Mr. Corpse smiled confidently, showing no fear of the skeletons. With a wave of his hand, a red wooden coffin appeared, standing upright on the ground.


    "Boom!"


    The coffin lid fell to the ground, kicking up a cloud of dust, and revealed a zombie with a talisman pasted on its forehead. The zombie was wrapped in white cloth strips, leaving only its eyes visible.


    Mr. Corpse reached out, and the talisman flew into his hand. The zombie''s eyes opened, releasing a powerful aura that spread in all directions.


    "A Buddha corpse?" Zhong Shan immediately recognized the formidable zombie. It had been a Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivator in life, and even as an iplete zombie, it was far beyond the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    The powerful aura pressed against the sixteen skeletons. The golden skeleton stood at the forefront, undaunted despite the overwhelming pressure. However, the powerful aura still caused it to tremble.


    Zhong Shan observed the skeletons closely. It was clear they were protecting the dark hole. What could be inside?


    The fifteen silver skeletons, sensing danger, ced their hands on the golden skeleton. Suddenly, the blue light in their eyes transferred into the golden skeleton''s body.


    The golden skeleton''s skull glowed even brighter, emitting a dazzling light. It shone with a golden radiance, managing to withstand the oppressive aura of the Buddha corpse. Meanwhile, the fifteen silver skeletons copsed into piles of dust, blown away by the wind.


    "How is this possible? They''ve sacrificed their soul mes?" Mr. Corpse eximed in surprise.


    "The silver skeletons sacrificed themselves to empower the golden skeleton? But even so, the golden skeleton''s strength shouldn''t surpass Mr. Corpse''s," Xianxian remarked, astonished.


    Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, sensing something amiss. The silver skeletons had intelligence, and so did the golden skeleton. Despite being outmatched by the Buddha corpse, they chose to fight to the death rather than flee.


    "Your Majesty, there must be something extremely valuable or dangerous inside that hole if they''re willing to sacrifice themselves," Mr. Corpse said, his voice tinged with urgency.


    "Indeed. Prepare yourself, everyone. We''re about to find out what they''re guarding," Zhong Shanmanded, his determination unwavering.


    As the tension mounted, Zhong Shan led his group closer to the dark hole, ready to confront whatevery within.


    "Mr. Corpse, quick, attack!" Zhong Shan suddenly shouted.


    "Yes!" Mr. Corpse responded immediately.


    The Buddha zombie burst out of the coffin, charging straight at the golden skeleton. It moved with incredible speed, reaching the golden skeleton in an instant. The golden skeleton swung its long de at the Buddha zombie.


    "Boom!"


    The de shattered, and the golden skeleton was mmed into the mountain, causing a shower of debris. Despite its formidable strength, the golden skeleton''s bones remained intact. It quickly extricated itself from the rubble and stood guard in front of the ck hole once more.


    "Raaaaaaah!"


    The skeleton let out a furious roar. The Buddha zombie struck again with a powerful blow, sending a burst of golden light through the air.


    "Boom!"


    The golden skeleton was sent flying again, its right arm shattering in the process. Yet, it stubbornly refused to give up. With its remaining strength, it steadied itself and suddenly charged at Mr. Corpse, clearly recognizing him as the one controlling the Buddha zombie.


    However, the golden skeleton''s speed could not outmatch the Buddha zombie.


    "Boom!"


    The golden skeleton was struck again, this time losing its right leg. The Buddha zombie was about to pursue when Zhong Shan called out.


    "Stop!"


    Mr. Corpse immediatelymanded the Buddha zombie to return to Zhong Shan''s side.


    Zhong Shan''s attention was drawn to the ck hole. Dark energy was pouring out, not dispersing, but extending like countless tendrils in all directions.


    "Your Majesty, there''s a powerful entity in that ck hole," Mr. Corpse said with a frown.


    "The golden skeleton has intelligence. It knows it can''t win, yet it refuses to leave. It''s clearly buying time. There must be a powerful being down there!" Zhong Shan said, his brows furrowed.


    "That is the most concentrated death energy I''ve ever seen," Mr. Corpse pointed to the ck energy emanating from the hole.


    The golden skeleton returned to the ck hole, ring in Zhong Shan''s direction.


    "I have a bad feeling about this! We should leave now," Xianxian said, her face showing her concern.


    "No, we can''t. This hole is too close to the Yin-Yang Hall. We need to understand what''s going on," Zhong Shan replied firmly.


    A faint p sound came from the hole, and another skeletal hand emerged��a pitch-ck skeletal hand. Another skeleton was climbing out of the hole.


    "A king... a Skeleton King?" Mr. Corpse suddenly eximed in shock.


    "A Skeleton King? What is that?" Zhong Shan immediately asked.


    "Your Majesty, we need to leave immediately. A Skeleton King, how is this possible?" Mr. Corpse shouted in disbelief.


    Their luck was too incredible��encountering a Skeleton King right after arriving in the underworld?


    "What kind of power does a Skeleton King possess?" Zhong Shan interrupted.


    "Heavenly Extreme Realm. It''s at the Heavenly Extreme Realm!" Mr. Corpse quickly responded.


    A Heavenly Extreme Realm Skeleton King?


    As the ck skeletal hand emerged, a terrifying aura exploded from the ck hole. The oppressive energy turned Xianxian''s face pale. Mr. Corpse summoned two more coffins, and two additional Buddha zombies emerged.


    A Heavenly Extreme Realm Skeleton King? And in this deste ce? Mr. Corpse''s face turned extremely grim.


    "Prepare yourselves! This is going to be a tough fight," Zhong Shan ordered, his eyes fixed on the emerging skeleton.

 Chapter 537: King of Skulls

    <h4>Chapter 537: King of Skulls</h4>


    In the Sky Extreme Realm, a Skeleton King?


    Hearing Mr. Corpse''s exnation, Zhong Shan frowned deeply. If it weren''t for the Yin-Yang Hall behind him, something he had to protect, he would have taken Xianxian and fled immediately.


    "ck, ck."


    As a pitch-ck skeletal hand emerged, another one followed from the ck hole. Slowly, a gigantic ck skeleton, about the height of two people, crawled out.


    The skeleton was utterly ck, its eye sockets emitting a faint red glow, as if angry at being disturbed. On the middle finger of its right hand was a very exquisite ring.


    "Your Majesty, it seems we don''t need to run!" Mr. Corpse suddenlyughed.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Zhong Shan also noticed that the pitch-ck Skeleton King had countless cracks on its bones, resembling a spider''s web, infinite and seemingly ready to copse at any moment. Deadly energy constantly seeped from the cracks as if its power was being drained.


    "Zhong Shan, why don''t we need to run?" Xianxian, still pale, asked.


    Zhong Shan immediately stood in front of Xianxian to shield her from the pressure.


    "Because this is a severely injured Skeleton King!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    The Skeleton King was merely here to recover from its injuries. Even in recovery, it wasn''t something an ordinary Emperor Extreme Realm could insult.


    After emerging, the Skeleton King quickly noticed that Zhong Shan had the highest cultivation here, at the Emperor Extreme Realm, and the three zombies were merely mindless.


    The Skeleton King tilted its head back and let out a long howl to the sky.


    "Haaaaaaah~~~~~~~~~~~"


    This howl carried an infinite might, causing countless bones on the ground to fly into the air. The sky was filled with a swirling death aura, rising up to the clouds.


    The three zombie Buddhas quickly shielded the trio, sparing them from significant harm.


    "Even severely injured, a Sky Extreme Realm shouldn''t be underestimated," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Your Majesty, you should retreat. This Skeleton King is unusual; let the zombies fight it!" Mr. Corpse immediately suggested, his eyes full of seriousness.


    "No need," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Eh?"


    "No matter how injured, the Skeleton King can still exert the power of an Emperor Extreme Realm. If it fights the zombies, the destruction would be immense. The Yin-Yang Hall is right beside us; it mustn''t be damaged," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "But..." Mr. Corpse frowned.


    "Let me handle this," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    Surprised, Mr. Corpse nced at Zhong Shan and then nodded, "Yes."


    "Zhong Shan!" Xianxian called out worriedly.


    "Don''t worry!"


    After speaking, Zhong Shan stepped forward. The three zombies moved aside but stayed close to Zhong Shan under Mr. Corpse''s instructions to guard against any idents.


    The Skeleton King''s crimson eyes fixed on Zhong Shan, who had walked to the front. A powerful pressure bore down on Zhong Shan, even whipping up a whirlwind that blew toward him.


    Emperor Extreme Realm? An Emperor Extreme Realm dares to act recklessly before me? In my prime, an Emperor Extreme Realm wasn''t even fit to carry my shoes.


    Yet this Emperor Extreme Realm cultivator withstood the Skeleton King''s pressure, meeting its gaze with an equally piercing look.


    The Skeleton King disdained Zhong Shan''s power but had no intention of letting anyone go. It had slumbered for years, healing its grievous wounds, only to be rudely awakened at a critical moment. Whoever disturbed its rest deserved to die.


    With this thought, the Skeleton King suddenly extended its right hand. From all directions, endless death energy surged madly toward the Skeleton King''s palm, forming a small, terrifying ck ball.


    The death energy continued to gather, growing denser and stronger, creating ripples in the space before the Skeleton King''s hand. Even severely injured, the powerful Skeleton King was not something these ants could contend with.


    At the sight of the ck ball, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted sharply, then dted. His originally ck pupils turned green.


    The Eyes of Reincarnation!


    With the opening of these eyes, yin and yang reversed.


    As soon as Zhong Shan activated his Eyes of Reincarnation, a mysterious force spread in all directions.


    Mr. Corpse''s body trembled involuntarily, his face full of shock as he looked at Zhong Shan''s back. He was extremely sensitive to this kind of power and knew its terrifying nature. Even though it wasn''t aimed at him, the residual effect alone convinced him that the Skeleton King was doomed. Zhong Shan''s standing in Mr. Corpse''s mind soared. What kind of power was this?


    Xianxian felt her soul tremble, then looked at Zhong Shan''s back with admiration.


    Directly facing Zhong Shan were the severely injured Skeleton King and the golden skeleton that had been heavily damaged by the zombies earlier.


    The golden skeleton had been acting arrogantly, relying on the Skeleton King. But as soon as Zhong Shan''s Eyes of Reincarnation locked onto it, the soul me, the lifeblood of the skeleton n, in its skull extinguished.


    Extinguished. The soul me of the skeleton snuffed out like a person''s shattered soul, causing the golden skeleton to copse into a pile of bones.


    This was just the residual effect.


    Facing the full force of the Eyes of Reincarnation was the Skeleton King.


    The death energy ball in the Skeleton King''s hand dissipated instantly!


    An overwhelming power emanated from Zhong Shan''s eyes, surging toward the Skeleton King.


    Overwhelming, it was merely a sensation. Zhong Shan''s Eyes of Reincarnation hadn''t reached their perfect state, and with his current cultivation, he could only unleash part of their power. But even this partial power gave the Skeleton King a sense of vast, irresistible force.


    It felt like the might of heaven, thew of heaven and earth! The Dao!


    This immense power seemed to target the soul. Skeletonscked a soul but had a soul me in their skulls.


    If he were at his peak, the Skeleton King might not have feared this. With his cultivation, resisting Zhong Shan''s weak reincarnation power wouldn''t have been too difficult. But now, the Skeleton King was grievously injured, with countless fractures in his bones.


    A powerful suction force from Zhong Shan''s eyes was drawing the soul me from the Skeleton King''s skull.


    The Skeleton King couldn''t move. If he resisted, the soul me would be pulled from his body, and he would be utterly finished, even as a king.


    The Skeleton King frantically used his energy to block the fractures, but the suction was eerily prating, acting directly on the soul me.


    The Skeleton King felt his consciousness waver, barely maintaining control.


    This was impossible. How could there be such a monster? The Skeleton King felt a deep sorrow.


    Zhong Shan also sensed the Skeleton King''s resistance. His Eyes of Reincarnation hadn''t yet taken effect? It seemed he couldn''t afford to underestimate Sky Extreme Realm experts in the future.


    But prolonging this wasn''t Zhong Shan''s intention either. His eyes widened, pupils expanding suddenly.


    The power of the Eyes of Reincarnation surged wildly under Zhong Shan''smand.


    The Skeleton King now felt like crying, if only it had tears. This suction force was unprecedented, something the Skeleton King had never encountered in its lifetime. The soul me within its skull flickered wildly, relentlessly crashing against the energy in the skull as if it could break free at any moment.


    It was on the brink. It couldn''t hold on much longer.


    Was it really going to die so miserably? In the past, it had faced countless powerful foes in a hopeless situation and still managed to create a bloody path to survival. Those foes were a hundred times stronger than this one, yet they all perished by its hand. But today, it couldn''t do anything against this ant, even facing imminent annihtion!


    As the Skeleton King reminisced, Zhong Shan''s reincarnation power grew stronger, frantically pulling at the soul me, trying to draw it out of the Skeleton King''s body.


    The Skeleton King stared at Zhong Shan, realizing it couldn''t hold on any longer. Was this the end? If the soul me left its body, it wouldn''t even have a chance at reincarnation; it would face utter destruction.


    Making a difficult decision, the Skeleton King suddenly knelt on one knee.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow and slightly reduced the power of his Eyes of Reincarnation.


    "Wang Ku submits to you!" the Skeleton King uttered in a grating voice.


    "Submit?" Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes.


    "I, Wang Ku, swear by my soul me," the Skeleton King reiterated.


    "An oath? I never trust the oaths of enemies," Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    Hearing this, the Skeleton King felt like coughing up blood, if only it had any.


    "Your Majesty! A skeleton''s soul me oath is absolutely binding," Mr. Corpse quickly interjected, wiping away cold sweat.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan frowned, curious why Mr. Corpse was speaking for the Skeleton King.


    "Your Majesty, skeletons are different from humans and beasts. Their existence is bound to their soul me. Human oaths are not binding, but a skeleton''s soul me oath is bound by its very life force. If it breaks the oath, its soul me will be extinguished, leading to itsplete destruction," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "A soul me oath binds for life?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "No, once the life force evolves, it can break free from previous oaths. This is a Skeleton King of the Sky Extreme Realm. If it advances to the immortal realm, it can break the oath," Mr. Corpse rified.


    Zhong Shan stared at the Skeleton King, who lowered its head in worry, awaiting Zhong Shan''s judgment.


    The power of the Eyes of Reincarnation was formidable indeed!


    "Swear by your soul me," Zhong Shan ordered after some thought.


    "What is your name?" the Skeleton King asked.


    "Zhong Shan."


    "I, Wang Ku, swear by my soul me to serve Zhong Shan from this moment forward. If I break this oath, may I be utterly destroyed," Wang Ku dered.


    As Wang Ku spoke, a ck light suddenly radiated from its skull, forming a strange pattern like a shackle that rushed into Wang Ku''s forehead and vanished.


    "Your Majesty, the soul me oath isplete," Mr. Corpse confirmed.


    Satisfied, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, then returned to normal as he deactivated the Eyes of Reincarnation.


    Wang Ku, still kneeling on one knee, felt a sudden relief. The soul me in its skull stopped its frantic dance. With a trace of fear, it nced at Zhong Shan and then stood respectfully.


    Wang Ku felt a deep sorrow. Once so powerful and revered, it now served an Emperor Extreme Realm cultivator. What a tragedy!

 Chapter 538: Holding the Emperor to Command the Princes

    <h4>Chapter 538: Holding the Emperor to Command the Princes</h4>


    The mighty Skeleton King had actually submitted to an Emperor Extreme Realm cultivator. No one would believe it if it were told, but it had indeed just happened.


    The once all-powerful Skeleton King, Wang Ku, now stood respectfully before Zhong Shan, bowing in submission. At least until he reached the immortal realm, he had to serve Zhong Shan.


    "A soul me oath? Isn''t that a weakness of the skeleton n?" Zhong Shan asked, sitting in front of the Yin-Yang Hall, looking at Wang Ku.


    Wang Ku, now wearing a blood-red robe that covered his entire body, making him less intimidating, replied with a hint of helplessness, "It''s not a weakness. Only in front of Your Majesty does it be one."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at Wang Ku, puzzled.


    "In the face of life and death, we skeletons have a method of reincarnation. The higher our cultivation, the greater the chance of reincarnation. I have a fifty percent chance of being reborn in another skeleton body after death, though I would have to start from scratch. So, we rarely make soul me oaths. But Your Majesty''s power earlier was so strange. I felt that if I continued to resist, I would be utterly annihted," Wang Ku said, his voice tinged with fear.


    Mr. Corpse, listening on the side, felt a chill. Xianxian looked curious, while Lin Xiao remained indifferent.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    It seemed the world didn''t offer such convenient solutions. Zhong Shan had initially thought about binding many strong beings with soul me oaths to serve him, but it was clearly unrealistic.


    "Do you know the current state of the world outside?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Wang Ku shook his head, "Thest I knew was five thousand years ago. The world must have changed beyond recognition by now."


    "Five thousand years?" Zhong Shan stared at Wang Ku. Five thousand years and still not fully healed?


    "My injuries were too severe five thousand years ago, damaging my very core and soul. It wasn''t until a hundred years ago that my soul began to recover," Wang Ku exined.


    "Then continue to heal here," Zhong Shan said.


    "Uh?" Wang Ku was puzzled.


    "Guard the Yin-Yang Hall for me," Zhong Shan ordered.


    Wang Ku looked at the Yin-Yang Hall before him and seemed to realize something. "This ce can traverse between the yin and yang realms?" he asked in surprise.


    Hearing Wang Ku''s words, Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold. The Yin-Yang Hall contained the Yin-Yang Path, something even Sky Extreme Realm experts might not know about, yet Wang Ku saw through it?


    Sensing Zhong Shan''s suspicion, Wang Ku quickly exined, "Your Majesty, you all have a faint golden yang aura. Such an aura is only present in the yang realm. In the yin realm, it would be a purple aura. I was unsure at first, but seeing how you value this hall, I deduced it."


    "Golden yang aura?"


    "Your Majesty, the heavy yin energy here will dissipate our golden yang aura in at most a day," Mr. Corpse timely added.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Turning to Wang Ku, Zhong Shan said, "Wang Ku, I don''t care who you were before or what you will be in the future. Just remember to behave andplete the tasks I give you until your soul me oath is nullified. Otherwise, I won''t hesitate to obliterate you."


    "Yes!" Wang Ku replied, his heart tightening.


    Simultaneously, Wang Ku felt a strange sense of gratitude. Zhong Shan didn''t ask about his past or who he was. This silence about his identity filled Wang Ku with gratitude.


    Suddenly, Wang Ku''s body twisted slightly, bing alert.


    Zhong Shan looked over and saw a ck dot sh in the distance before appearing in front of them.


    Sha Po had returned.


    The moment Sha Po arrived, he sensed the presence of a powerful being, someone whose aura was even stronger than his own, and became extremely cautious.


    "Sha Po! How did the investigation go?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Wang Ku immediately rxed but was slightly surprised. This person of flesh and blood, with a cultivation at least at the Emperor Extreme Realm, was following Zhong Shan without a soul me oath?


    "Your Majesty, I only managed to investigate the general area. This ce seems to be a forbidden zone where ordinary people and beasts do not venture. To the north, I discovered a human empire!" Sha Po reported, ncing at the blood-robed figure.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Wang Ku, heed my order!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "I am here!"


    "Imand you to guard this area. Do not allow anyone to approach the Yin-Yang Hall. If anyone tries to force their way in, kill them!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Wang Ku immediatelyplied.


    "Let''s go! We''re heading to the human empire," Zhong Shan instructed the others.


    With Sha Po leading the way, the group soared into the sky.


    Wang Ku stared in astonishment at the departing Zhong Shan. He was leaving just like that? Leaving him unsupervised?


    With the soul me oath in ce, Zhong Shan naturally felt secure. Leaving Wang Ku behind was the best n to ensure the safety of the Yin-Yang Hall. Now, it was time to explore this world of the underworld.


    As Sha Po listened to Xianxian''s exnation about the Skeleton King, he too felt a sense of wonder. Was Zhong Shan really that powerful?


    In the air, Zhong Shan asked Sha Po, "In the half day you were gone, what did you find out?"


    "I gathered some general information about the underworld and the northern area beyond this forbidden zone," Sha Po replied.


    "Oh?"


    "There are two great celestial dynasties and two holynds in this underworld. To the north of this forbidden zone is an empire called the Great Xian Dynasty. The city nearest to this forbidden zone is Changcheng of the Great Xian Dynasty," Sha Po exined.


    "The Great Xian Dynasty, Changcheng?" Zhong Shan mused.


    "Yes!" Sha Po confirmed.


    "Let''s go. Find a way to take control of Changcheng first!" Zhong Shan dered.


    "Yes!" everyone responded immediately.


    One yearter, in the Yang Realm, Qingzhou, at the residence of Yi Yan.


    Yi Yan looked at the pile of letters on his desk, a disdainful smile ying on his lips.


    "Marshal, these are invitations from sixteen imperial dynasties!" Tie Xue reported respectfully.


    "Hmm. What do you make of it?" Yi Yan asked.


    "They want to lure you away, Marshal," Tie Xue also smiled.


    "What do you think I should do?" Yi Yan asked with a grin.


    "The Great Zheng Dynasty, though only named a dynasty, has the substance of an imperial dynasty. Bing an imperial dynasty is only a matter of time. There''s no need to pay attention to these sixteen dynasties," Tie Xue advised respectfully.


    Tie Xue knew this was Yi Yan''s way of training him.


    "And what about this one?" Yi Yan handed over another letter.


    Tie Xue immediately picked it up and read it carefully. Suddenly, his eyes widened.


    "The Tai Sui Celestial Dynasty?" Tie Xue eximed in surprise.


    "Yes, the Tai Sui Celestial Dynasty! I suspect that not only I, but Shui Jing and Shui Wuhen have also received this letter by now," Yi Yan said, his eyes narrowing.


    "Uh, this..." Tie Xue furrowed his brow deeply.


    "What do you think?" Yi Yan asked.


    Tie Xue''s expression shifted several times before he made up his mind. "Refuse. The Great Zheng Dynasty will eventually be a celestial dynasty. I am certain of it!"


    "Hahaha!" Yi Yan nodded in satisfaction.


    "But, can Shui Jing and Shui Wuhen resist such temptation? A position in the celestial dynasty!" Tie Xue worried.


    "Since His Majesty assigned the three of us to Qingzhou, he has confidence in our loyalty. Rest assured!" Yi Yan said.


    "Yes!" Tie Xue nodded.


    "Also, take this," Yi Yan handed over a small vial.


    "What is this?"


    "Concentrated Soul Elixir."


    Upon learning its purpose, Tie Xue treated it as a treasure. This elixir was invaluable. With it, even death wouldn''t be the end.


    Tie Xue was unaware that Zhong Shan had descended into the underworld; otherwise, his loyalty to the Great Zheng Dynasty would have been even more steadfast.


    Over the past year, everything in the Yang Realm remained as usual, with the Great Zheng Dynasty quietly biding its time.


    In the underworld, over the course of a year, with Zhong Shan''s immense wisdom and the capable individuals around him, Zhong Shan sessfully became the lord of Changcheng.


    Only a year!


    To outsiders, it seemed miraculous, but to Zhong Shan and hispanions, it was expected.


    In the lord''s residence in Changcheng, Zhong Shan and hispanions celebrated their sess. After the banquet, once the guests had left, the five who hade from the Yang Realm gathered once again.


    "Your Majesty, securing Changcheng provides us with a solid base," Lin Xiao said with a smile.


    "No, it''s not enough. I want the entire Great Xian Dynasty!" Zhong Shan dered.


    "The Great Xian Dynasty? Is Your Majesty nning to wage war?" Mr. Corpse asked, frowning.


    "Wage war?" Zhong Shan turned to look at Mr. Corpse.


    "If we don''t go to war, how can we take over the thirty-two cities of the Great Xian Dynasty? This city is one of the weaker ones. If we attempt a military campaign, it will be difficult. Moreover, we have only been here for a year, and our foundation is shallow. Not many will join us in a rebellion. It''s a tough situation!" Mr. Corpse shook his head.


    "I could go to the pce and wipe out the royal family," Sha Po suggested roughly.


    Hearing Sha Po''s suggestion, the others rolled their eyes.


    "Killing the royal family won''t help. The other cities would either fight independently or pledge allegiance to other dynasties, creating even more problems," Lin Xiao exined to Sha Po.


    "Do we really have to conquer one city at a time? Just relying on us won''t be enough," Xianxian frowned.


    "It''s difficult. Some of my spells that are mysterious in the Yang Realm are not as effective here in the underworld. Our main issue is our shallow foundation; after just one year, it''s hard to rally the entire world," Mr. Corpse said, frowning.


    "Lin Xiao, what do you think?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I am willing to lead the army to take down the Great Xian Dynasty. We can slowly conquer the entire dynasty through military campaigns," Lin Xiao immediately volunteered.


    Zhong Shan shook his head as he looked at Lin Xiao.


    "I haveplete confidence in your ability to lead the army and take down the Great Xian Dynasty, but the cost would be too high. It would drain our resources, and blood would flow like rivers. It would take too much time, and we might face numerous assassination attempts," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    "I''m not afraid!" Lin Xiao insisted.


    "I know you''re not afraid, and you are very wise. But you tend to be inflexible. Your analysis of the overall situation isn''t as good as Yi Yan''s and Shui Jing''s," Zhong Shan said.


    Lin Xiao frowned, "Then what does Your Majesty n to do?"


    Zhong Shan was using Yi Yan and Shui Jing as examples to teach Lin Xiao and prepare to impart more knowledge.


    "To be a suprememander, one must not only be a brilliant strategist but also understand politics," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Uh?"


    "Watch this battle closely. I will teach you how to grasp the overall situation. To achieve the greatest results with the smallest investment and take down the Great Xian Dynasty, we must use a clever strategy," Zhong Shan said.


    "What clever strategy?" Lin Xiao asked.


    "Hold the emperor hostage tomand the vassals!" Zhong Shan dered.

 Chapter 539: Political Warfare

    <h4>Chapter 539: Political Warfare</h4>


    "Hold the emperor hostage tomand the vassals?" Lin Xiao frowned.


    "Let''s start by examining the Great Xian Dynasty. How is its system different from that of the Yang Realm?" Zhong Shan responded with a question.


    "The city lords have too much power! Each has too many private soldiers," Lin Xiao immediately pinpointed the key issue.


    "Correct. The city lords have too much power. That''s the first point. And what about the imperial family?" Zhong Shan continued to question Lin Xiao.


    "The emperor is old and nearing the end of his life. Rumor has it he has less than five years left," Lin Xiao thought for a moment and replied.


    "Five years? No, at most six months. The emperor will die," Zhong Shan said with absolute certainty.


    "What? How can you be so sure?" Lin Xiao asked in surprise.


    "The rumor is that he has less than five years, but two years ago, the emperor sparred with a master in an attempt to make a final breakthrough to extend his lifespan. The emperor won, and his opponent was severely injured. But would someone used by the emperor as a stepping stone be that weak? The emperor didn''t break through; was he really unharmed?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "The emperor was also severely injured!" Lin Xiao immediately understood.


    "Exactly. Severely injured, and with his lifespan nearing its end, he is bound to die sooner than expected. Why do I say he has only six months left? Because I became the lord of Changcheng," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "The previous lord of Changcheng was a formidable figure. Knowing he was near death, the emperor had to rece city lords with rebellious tendencies to pave the way for his sessor. Even if the new lords have rebellious hearts, their shallow roots make them less of a threat, especially someone like you, without any connections, making you the easiest choice for a new city lord," Lin Xiao quickly exined.


    "Correct. Within a year, the Great Xian Dynasty will fall into chaos," Zhong Shan predicted with certainty.


    "Why?" Xianxian immediately asked from the side.


    Yes, why? In the vastnd of Shenzhou, there are many instances of fathers dying and sons inheriting the throne. Why was Zhong Shan so sure?


    Lin Xiao seemed to understand Zhong Shan''s reasoning.


    "Because the crown prince is weak," Lin Xiao immediately concluded.


    "Yes, the crown prince is weak. ording to our information, the crown prince is only thirteen years old, with ordinary intelligence. How can a young tiger tame a pack of wolves?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "What should we do then?" Lin Xiao asked.


    "The Great Xian Dynasty will soon be in turmoil. You need to quickly train a strong army to prepare for the uing battles," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao responded immediately.


    Six monthster.


    The military strength of Changcheng had increased significantly. With the endless spirit stones Zhong Shan had brought from the Yang Realm, the size of the army had multiplied, quickly reaching the level of the former city lord''s power, something the current emperor could never have anticipated.


    "Your Majesty, just as you predicted, the Great Xian Emperor has died. The entire nation is in mourning!" Lin Xiao rushed into the hall where Zhong Shan was, full of excitement.


    "Remember, for now, refer to me as the city lord!" Zhong Shan immediately emphasized.


    "Yes, City Lord. The old emperor has died, and the throne has passed to the crown prince, An Jianyuan," Lin Xiao reported.


    "An Jianyuan? Ascending to the throne at a young age, with such a turbulent background," Zhong Shan sighed.


    "City Lord, what should we do now?" Lin Xiao asked.


    "Watch and wait."


    "Watch and wait?" Lin Xiao frowned.


    "Indeed, besides us, there are many eyes on the imperial capital, Xiancheng. Most city lords are watching An Jianyuan closely. For now, the Great Xian Dynasty still stands, so no one has made a move yet," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "They want the Imperial Seal from An Jianyuan?" Lin Xiao frowned.


    "Correct. The old emperor''s death left An Jianyuan to take over the Great Xian Dynasty. However, the dynasty''s fortune now has two anchors: one is An Jianyuan, and the other is the Imperial Seal. Until An Jianyuan fully refines the Imperial Seal, he cannotpletely control the fortune. The Imperial Seal is what the city lords covet the most," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Someone will try to seize it?" Lin Xiao pondered.


    "Yes, it''s just a matter of who will make the first move," Zhong Shan smiled.


    As expected, over time, numerous reports came from Xiancheng.


    Finally, one city lord made the first move.


    Luo Ye, the lord of Baiji City, led his troops into the imperial capital, Xiancheng, defying the heavens to seize the Imperial Seal. He massacred countless loyal officials who dared to resist.


    From the capital, numerous distress signals were sent out, calling on the city lords toe to the emperor''s aid.


    Naturally, Zhong Shan led his troops there.


    Over the past six months, Lin Xiao had done an excellent job, training an army of 800,000.


    "Zhong Shan, how many city lords do you think wille?" Xianxian asked on the way.


    "How many? All of them. Not a single one will be absent," Zhong Shan confidently replied.


    "All the city lords areing to aid the emperor? Then Luo Ye, the traitor, is doomed," Xianxian frowned.


    "Aid the emperor? Haha, no, most of them areing for the Imperial Seal in Luo Ye''s hands," Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    Thirty city lords set up camp at a strategic location outside the imperial capital, Xiancheng, for a grand alliance.


    "Lin Xiao, you go and attend the alliance on my behalf. I''ll stay here. Pay attention to the city lords; note which ones have talent and which ones are ipetent," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao responded immediately.


    Zhong Shan stayed with Xianxian while Lin Xiao went to the alliance.


    After the alliance, the next step was the siege.


    Luo Ye was strong, but he was just a city lord with limited troops. Even with most of the city lords being passive, they could gradually wear him down.


    Luo Ye didn''t kill the young emperor because if the young emperor died, the dynasty''s fortune would dissipate, rendering the Imperial Seal useless.


    The warsted nearly six months.


    Eventually, Luo Ye could no longer hold out. In a fit of rage, he destroyed the pce and fled the capital with the young emperor and his army, heading to his stronghold in Baiji City.


    As Luo Ye fled, the twenty-nine city lords all gave chase.


    "City lord, should we pursue them?" Lin Xiao quickly asked.


    "No, we will enter the imperial capital!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao immediately assembled the troops.


    "Sha Po!" Zhong Shan called.


    "At your service!" Sha Po responded promptly.


    "You will go alone to rescue the young emperor, An Jianyuan, and bring him to our Changcheng. Ensure that no one else is harmed!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Uh? Not to kill Luo Ye?" Sha Po was surprised.


    "Don''t kill him. It''s best if you can take the young emperor away without anyone noticing," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, sir!" Sha Po responded.


    Zhong Shan entered Xiancheng, the imperial capital. Out of the thirty city lords, only Zhong Shan entered the capital.


    Inside the imperial capital, everyone was on edge. Luo Ye''s earlier brutality had killed many.


    Zhong Shan headed straight for the ruins of the imperial pce. He sent Lin Xiao to gather the remaining officials while he gazed at the sky.


    The once dense fortune of the dynasty had faded significantly.


    Before long, the surviving court officials were brought to him.


    "Lord Zhong, spare us! We didn''t do anything!" an elderly official pleaded in terror.


    The other officials echoed his sentiment, trembling slightly.


    "Fellow colleagues, don''t be rmed. Like you, I have a heart loyal to the Great Xian Dynasty. The dynasty has given us everything, and we must repay it. Now, the treacherous Luo Ye has fled with the emperor, and I fear he might return," Zhong Shan said.


    "Return? Will that traitore back?" a timid official asked worriedly.


    "Everyone, follow me to a safer ce. Once His Majesty is rescued, we can serve the Great Xian Dynasty again," Zhong Shan quickly suggested.


    "Lord Zhong..." one official began to speak.


    "Guards, go to these officials'' homes and gather their belongings. We will take them to Changcheng for refuge," Zhong Shanmanded, not giving the officials a chance to object.


    Thus, the surviving court officials were coerced into being taken to Changcheng by Zhong Shan.


    While all the other city lords were chasing Luo Ye to Baiji City, they discovered the emperor was missing.


    The emperor was missing?


    Some city lords stopped pursuing Luo Ye and searched for the emperor, but the majority surrounded Baiji City, aiming to eliminate the national traitor and, more importantly, seize the Imperial Seal.


    In their eyes, the Imperial Seal was more valuable than the emperor. With the seal, they could extract fortune and establish their own kingdoms. What could they do with the emperor? Bow to him daily?


    While the world was besieging Baiji City, Zhong Shan had already relocated the young emperor and the court officials to Changcheng, his territory.


    In Changcheng, he quickly built a new imperial pce and issued an edict to the world.


    "Traitor Luo Ye has stolen the Imperial Seal and destroyed the imperial capital, Xiancheng. His crimes are unforgivable, and he must be executed by all. The capital is now relocated to Changcheng. All city lords are ordered to attack the traitor and reim the seal to restore order! Zhong Shan, who rescued the emperor in this crisis, is appointed Grand General andmander of the three armies."


    The edict, issued in the emperor''s name but written by Zhong Shan, spread throughout thend, reaching the hands of all city lords. They realized the world had suddenly changed.


    Without the Imperial Seal, the emperor remained the emperor. A new seal could be made, but without the emperor, the fortune tied to the seal would slowly dissipate. This chaotic battle had allowed Zhong Shan to gain a significant advantage.


    With the court now in Changcheng, it was effectively under Zhong Shan''s control.


    Although many city lords still desired the Imperial Seal, Zhong Shan''s actions left them feeling as if they had swallowed a bitter pill.


    "Your Majesty, this strategy of ''holding the emperor tomand the vassals'' is truly brilliant! Without shedding blood, we have gained the greatest advantage in the Great Xian Dynasty," Lin Xiao marveled.


    "Since you captured the young emperor, why do you still bow to him daily?" Xianxian frowned.


    "It''s a matter of propriety and to silence any critics. We are ''serving'' the emperor, not ''holding'' him hostage," Lin Xiao exined with a smile.


    "Exactly, a single word makes all the difference. While most city lords understand the reality, they have no way to oppose it," Zhong Shan said.


    "But won''t most city lords know? Won''t they rebel? What if they refuse to acknowledge the ''emperor''s'' edict?" Xianxian asked.


    "They wouldn''t dare. Even though other dynasties are far away, if everyone refuses to recognize the ''emperor''s'' edict, the Great Xian Dynasty would effectively disappear. At that point, other dynasties would send troops here," Zhong Shan replied confidently.


    "What if only a few refuse to acknowledge the ''emperor''s'' edict?" Xianxian asked.


    "That would be even better!" Lin Xiao suddenlyughed.


    "Uh?"


    "It''s a perfect opportunity to eliminate dissent and strengthen our power. If only a few oppose, we canunch a campaign to suppress the rebellion. The other city lords wouldn''t just stand by; they''d be obligated to help us. This would rapidly increase our strength," Lin Xiao said excitedly.


    This is the essence of political warfare. By doing so, further conflicts would involve capturing one city at a time rather than facing thebined forces of an entire dynasty.


    Lin Xiao''s eyes sparkled as he fully grasped the immense benefits of this political maneuvering.

 Chapter 540: A Lingering Concern

    <h4>Chapter 540: A Lingering Concern</h4>


    Seeing Lin Xiao quickly grasp the benefits of political warfare, Zhong Shan smiled in satisfaction.


    "With ''holding the emperor tomand the vassals,'' we''ve secured the banner of justice. From now on, I''ll leave it to you to figure out how to do it��how to swallow up the entire Great Xian Dynasty with the least cost!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao responded with excitement.


    "Do you want me to retrieve the Imperial Seal?" Sha Po asked.


    "No need. It''s a source of chaos. Its presence will better cover our actions. Let the other city lords fight over it. When they finally notice us, the world will have changed drastically!" Lin Xiao said, a glint of wisdom in his eyes.


    Zhong Shan nodded in satisfaction, pleased with Lin Xiao''s increasing maturity.


    From this point, things became easier. Under the banner of the emperor, Lin Xiao began his campaign of ''stirring up the world.'' For city lords who could be subdued, he chose to incorporate them; for those who couldn''t, he dealt the strongest blows and offered rewards to pacify the silent city lords.


    The Imperial Seal passed from one new owner to another. Luo Ye was long dead, and the Imperial Seal had a new possessor. But no one who seized it was willing to hand it over to the court. Thus, wars continued. When someone imed the seal and dered themselves emperor, Lin Xiao would summon the world to attack them in the name of the emperor.


    So, three years passed in the blink of an eye.


    Zhong Shan''s control over his territory solidified. Lin Xiao, now not only a military genius, had also be a seasoned politician.


    Three yearster, as the fortune within the Imperial Seal dissipated due to its separation from the emperor, the remaining city lords realized the world had changed.


    Out of the thirty city lords, only nine remained isted. The others either allied with the ''court'' or were defeated and reced by new city lords. Zhong Shan now controlled seventy percent of thend.


    Could the nine isted city lords still achieve anything?


    In Changcheng, at the altar of heaven, Emperor An Jianyuan held an edict and read it aloud. Below, the officials stood solemnly, bowing to the emperor.


    "Heaven''s mandate is constant, and it bestows upon the worthy. The Great Xian Dynasty''s decline has brought chaos and rebellion. The nation has been saved by King Zheng''s martial prowess, who has restored order and peace. Therefore, I, An Jianyuan, abdicate in favor of King Zheng, passing the imperial seal and the mandate of heaven. From now on, King Zheng shall be emperor, ruling with virtue and wisdom."


    This was the abdication of Emperor An Jianyuan to King Zhong Shan.


    It was time to reap the final rewards. In matters of governance, who understood the Great Xian Dynasty better than Zhong Shan?


    Zhong Shan stepped forward, took the Imperial Seal, and looked proudly at the officials below.


    "Long live the emperor! Long live the emperor!" the officials chanted, bowing to Zhong Shan.


    With the strategy of ''holding the emperor tomand the vassals,'' Zhong Shan had captured the world and the mandate of heaven. In just six years in the underworld, he had bypassed the status of a dynasty to be the ruler of an empire.


    "I inherit heaven''s will and the great mandate. From today, the nation shall be called Great Zheng, with Changjing as the capital," Zhong Shan dered loudly.


    As Zhong Shan''s voice echoed, the fortune in the sky above Changjing began to slowly disappear, reappearing over Xuanning in the Yang Realm, surging and increasing. Within the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, it was fully refined and then disappeared again.


    In the underworld above Changjing, the lost fortune reappeared, radiating a faint golden light that illuminated Zhong Shan, making him appear like a supreme deity.


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor forever!" The shouts of loyalty echoed continuously as Zhong Shan officially established the Great Zheng Dynasty in the underworld, renaming Changcheng to Changjing and proiming it to the world.


    After securing Xuanning, Lin Xiao was appointed the first legionmander of the Great Zheng Dynasty and was bestowed the title of Grand General. Next, it was time to consolidate the rear and eliminate any remaining dissenters.


    Of the nine remaining city lords, six directly acknowledged Zhong Shan''s authority and the Great Zheng Dynasty. The other three attempted to resist but were either forced to kneel and surrender or met their end on the battlefield.


    The Great Xian Dynasty was now consigned to history, and the Great Zheng Dynasty firmly rooted itself in the underworld. Henceforth, the underworld had a new dynasty: the Great Zheng Dynasty.


    Regarding the Imperial Seal, Zhong Shan had the Fangtian Jade Seal, but he had not brought it to the underworld. There could only be one imperial seal for the Great Zheng Dynasty, but that did not prevent the issuance of decrees. Zhong Shan had brought countless nk decrees stamped with the Fangtian Jade Seal from the Yang Realm.


    Over these years, Zhong Shan had alsoe to understand their current location. They were in the extreme east of the underworld. The mountain range where the Yin-Yang Hall was located was a forbidden zone, once a massive battlefield where countless armies from the Great Thousand World met their demise. It was both a forbidden zone and a holynd in this small world. It was universally epted that no force could enter that mountain range, providing the Yin-Yang Hall with excellent defense. With the Skeleton King Wang Ku guarding it, the safety of the Yin-Yang Hall was assured.


    The Great Zheng Dynasty in the underworld was a human dynasty surrounded by various ghost and non-human dynasties. In the underworld, establishing a dynastic fortune was not limited to humans.


    The region where the Great Zheng Dynasty was located had three major dynasties: the Great Zheng Dynasty in the east, with two others, Great Xun and Great Ying, to the west. These three dynasties shared thend outside the forbidden zone.


    Changjing was undergoing extensive construction, with various pces and pavilions rising from the ground.


    In the study of the imperial pce, Zhong Shan sat at his desk, looking at two purple-gold invitations. Xianxian, unrestrained, sat on the desk, crossed her beautiful legs, and picked up the invitations Zhong Shan had just read.


    Standing before the desk were Lin Xiao, Mr. Corpse, and several newly promoted ministers.


    "And wager between three dynasties?" Zhong Shan showed a yful smile.


    "This Great Xun Dynasty, their national beast is a wolf?" Xianxian''s eyes sparkled.


    "No, it''s a blood wolf," Zhong Shan corrected.


    "Same thing!" Xianxianughed.


    "Your Majesty, thend outside the forbidden zone has always had this tradition of and wager every hundred years among the three dynasties. Inviting our Great Zheng Dynasty this time is an acknowledgment of our status. Your Majesty, will you attend?" a minister asked.


    "Of course, we''ll go! And wager? How interesting!" Zhong Shanughed.


    "Interesting? How so?" The minister was puzzled. This kind ofnd wager wasmon in the underworld. Of course, the minister couldn''t know that Zhong Shan wasparing it to the Yang Realm.


    Zhong Shan had effective methods for governing, and within just two years, the Great Zheng Dynasty in the underworld had returned to a state of prosperity. The court officials had been thoroughly vetted, ensuring their absolute loyalty to the Great Zheng Dynasty.


    The three-dynastynd wager was a traditional event in the area outside the forbidden zone, involving a major reshuffling of territories among the dynasties in this vast region.


    Zhong Shan sat on his dragon throne, leading his grand army from Xuanning, marching majestically towards the center of the three dynasties.


    In the human realm, on the Shenzhou continent, in the Land of Longevity, stood a simple thatched hut.


    Nian Youyou stood before her master, Nu Qinghui.


    "I didn''t expect you to sort out your thoughts so quickly. Truly, you are my disciple," Nu Qinghui said with satisfaction.


    "Master!" Nian Youyou called out with a distant expression.


    "Sigh!" Nu Qinghui sighed softly upon seeing Nian Youyou''s expression.


    "I hope you won''t me me!" Nu Qinghui shook her head and sighed.


    "I don''t me you!" Nian Youyou''s voice was somewhat stiff.


    "Zhong Shan is not dead."


    "I know."


    "Can you still kill him?"


    Hearing Nu Qinghui mention killing Zhong Shan again, Nian Youyou''s pupils contracted, a fierce glint shing in her eyes. Her golden pupils shone brightly for a moment before dimming.


    "I knew it, you don''t want to kill him anymore," Nu Qinghui sighed.


    Nian Youyou bit her lip, saying nothing.


    "I will send you to the underworld! Maybe you won''t meet Zhong Shan again, and you can sever your lingering thoughts," Nu Qinghui suddenly suggested.


    "Uh? To the underworld?" Nian Youyou frowned.


    "Hehe, in thend of Shenzhou, the four great sacred grounds of the past��do you know which was the first? It wasn''t the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss; its strength only expanded for a short time. The first sacred ground should be our Land of Longevity. The depth of its heritage is beyond your imagination. If I hadn''t reached the Sky Extreme Realm, I wouldn''t have known many of its secrets," Nu Qinghui said, shaking her head.


    "You can send me to the underworld?" Nian Youyou stared intently at Nu Qinghui.


    "There''s only one opportunity every thousand years. If you want to go, I''ll help you secure a spot," Nu Qinghui offered.


    Nian Youyou fell silent.


    "Are you still unable to let go of Zhong Shan? Do you still want to return to his side?" Nu Qinghui frowned.


    With a bitter smile, Nian Youyou shook her head, "What face do I have to see him again? Master, please help me!"


    Seeing the pain on Nian Youyou''s face, Nu Qinghui felt a pang of heartache. She didn''t offer furtherfort, just nodded silently.


    After speaking, Nian Youyou returned to her small room, feeling incredibly heavy-hearted. Emperor Extreme Realm? True Monarch Nian Youyou? She didn''t care about such worldly titles. Although Zhong Shan was safe, Nian Youyou knew that she would never be happy again.


    In the small room, her ancestral spirit beast, Xiao Qing, was napping by the window, basking in the sunlight and patting its full belly, looking extremely satisfied.


    Nian Youyou walked over and looked at Xiao Qing, a rare nostalgic smile appearing on her face. Xiao Qing? Darling? Husband? Zhong Shan?


    As she thought, her initial smile gradually turned bitter. Nian Youyou couldn''t forgive herself for her past actions.

 Chapter 541: Is It a Bit Too Little?

    <h4>Chapter 541: Is It a Bit Too Little?</h4>


    The three-dynastynd wager was set at the intersection of the three dynasties, in the Yinmi Mountains.


    Before the Yinmi Mountains was a vast square, the Yinmi Square.


    The first to arrive was the Great Ying Dynasty.


    The Great Ying Dynasty was a ghost cultivation dynasty, with its emperor being a thousand-year-old ghost.


    Heaven and earth are divided into yin and yang. When people die, only one percent have the chance to be ghosts, and ghosts likewise only have a one percent chance to reincarnate as humans. Therefore, most ghosts in the underworld choose not to reincarnate, much like how most people in the yang realm do not wish to die.


    The ghost dynasty was ruled by Emperor Yan Chongzhi of the Great Ying Dynasty.


    Yan Chongzhi sat on a pitch-ck dragon throne, adorned with ck dragons, giving it an extremely dark appearance. He wore a ck dragon robe, his face fair as jade, and a ck jade t crown on his head. His eyes shone brightly.


    Behind him was an army of about 800,000, all dressed in ck armor and hats,pletely covering themselves, making it impossible to see any features. Strangely, this entire ghost army floated, their feet not touching the ground.


    800,000 ghost soldiers��a ghost cultivation army.


    On Yan Chongzhi''s dragon tform, behind the dragon chair, stood several trusted aides. There were a few humans, but most were high-level ghost cultivators who had assumed human forms. Their faces were extremely pale, devoid of any blood, looking somewhat frightening.


    These people did not dare to overstep their bounds, standing respectfully behind Yan Chongzhi''s throne. Behind the throne, however, was a peculiar sight that made the imposing ghost army appear somewhat incongruous.


    Why incongruous? Because behind the dragon chair, in an abrupt spot, was a reclining chair made of white jade. On this chairy a scruffy old man, his nose red from drinking, his eyes half-closed. He wore a tattered gray robe andzily reclined on the chair, clutching arge wine gourd. While he slept, he asionally scratched himself, even reaching down to his buttocks.


    This unkempt drunkard, with his indecorous actions, undermined the solemnity of the ghost army. Yet, Yan Chongzhi seemed unconcerned, allowing the old man to do as he pleased.


    The imposing ghost army settled in the southwestern part of Yinmi Square. Yan Chongzhi flicked his sleeves, cing his hands on the armrests of the dragon chair, and closed his eyes to wait.


    While Yan Chongzhi waited, the second dynasty arrived.


    The Great Xun Dynasty.


    Emperor Guo Feng of the Great Xun Dynasty was human, leading an army of humans.


    Guo Feng wore a blood-red dragon robe and a red t crown. His face was slightly fierce, his eyes constantly revealing a hint of ferocity, making him appear very intimidating.


    On the dragon tform stood a group of trusted aides, all positioned behind Guo Feng, except for one man with a blood-red face, who stood slightly forward. Though his status was not equal to Guo Feng''s, he was evidently second only to the emperor, extremely revered.


    Below the dragon tform was the Great Xun Dynasty''s army.


    The Great Xun army consisted of two types: infantry and wolf cavalry.


    The infantry numbered 300,000, while the wolf cavalry numbered 200,000.


    Each of the 200,000 wolf cavalry rode a giant wolf. These wolves were bizarre, glowing blood-red, with red eyes, looking like fierce demons from hell, appearing extremely ferocious. Blood wolves!


    Those who rode the blood wolves were also top-tier warriors.


    The powerful Great Xun Dynasty and its formidable wolf cavalry.


    The army, stirring up endless dust, finally stopped in the northwestern part of the Yinmi Mountains at Guo Feng''smand.


    The army was impably disciplined, even the blood wolves maintaining perfect formation.


    With a flick of his sleeve, Guo Feng ced his hands on the armrests of his dragon chair, looking toward Yan Chongzhi in the distance.


    The two emperors of the major dynasties met once again.


    "Yan Chongzhi, it''s been a long time!" Guo Feng said with a smile, a mysterious expression in his eyes.


    "Indeed, it''s been a while," Yan Chongzhi nodded.


    When the two emperors spoke, no one else dared to interrupt. All listened quietly��this was the authority theymanded.


    "What do you think about thisnd wager?" Guo Feng asked directly.


    "What do you think?" Yan Chongzhi countered, avoiding a direct answer.


    The two exchanged veiledments, revealing nothing of their true thoughts.


    "The Great Xian Dynasty has fallen. In a short time, a new Great Zheng Dynasty has risen. Do you know much about it?" Guo Feng inquired.


    "The Great Zheng Dynasty has held the emperor hostage tomand the vassals. Their emperor is no ordinary person," Yan Chongzhi remarked.


    "And you think you''re any better?" Guo Feng teased.


    Yan Chongzhi''s eyes shed with coldness, but he suppressed his anger, saying, "Just be careful not to fall into his hands."


    "Him? Zhong Shan? Just a nobody. Give him decades to organize his dynasty, and maybe I''ll take him seriously. But now? He''s just a sh in the pan," Guo Feng scoffed.


    Guo Feng''s arrogance was palpable. In front of over a million soldiers from both dynasties, he belittled Zhong Shan, essentially insulting him before the entire forbiddennd. Such arrogance would surelye at a price.


    Yan Chongzhi looked at Guo Feng and smirked coldly.


    While the two emperors conversed, a distant shadow could be seen approaching from the east.


    The Great Zheng Dynasty had arrived.


    Zhong Shan brought an army of 800,000 from Changjing. Over the years of training, they moved in perfect unison, causing both Yan Chongzhi and Guo Feng to raise their eyebrows involuntarily.


    Such precision?


    Although Zhong Shan had only brought 800,000 soldiers, their marching was synchronized to the point where each step they took sounded like the beat of a war drum, reverberating through the air.


    Amidst the rhythmic marching, the army steadily approached Yinmi Square. The enormous imperial g rose high, and at the front, Zhong Shan sat on his dragon tform, wearing a golden nine-wed dragon robe, making him stand out. His golden t crown enhanced his imperial aura.


    The nine dragons pulling the dragon chair further emphasized his imperial might. Behind Zhong Shan stood his trusted aides, respectfully standing. Their solemn expressions added to the emperor''smanding presence, felt even from a distance.


    This was a true emperor. Just the grand disy exuded a much stronger presence.


    The Great Zheng Dynasty.


    Yan Chongzhi and Guo Feng watched with cold eyes.


    The army advanced slowly until they reached the front of Yinmi Square. Without Zhong Shan needing to speak, Lin Xiao intuitively waved his hand, and the army abruptly halted, standing as still as statues.


    The strict discipline impressed both opposing dynasties. They hadn''t expected such a well-trained army in such a short time. The Great Zheng Dynasty had developed rapidly, turning its soldiers into a highly disciplined force in just a few years.


    Yan Chongzhi and Guo Feng both began to take Zhong Shan more seriously.


    Behind Zhong Shan''s dragon chair stood Mr. Corpse, Lin Xiao, Xianxian, Sha Po, and several newly promoted ministers.


    Upon reaching Yinmi Square, Xianxian''s eyes darted around, first focusing on the countless blood wolves in the distance before quickly shifting her gaze to the 800,000 ghost soldiers.


    Wolves? What''s so interesting about them? Xianxian herself was a wolf, so she found the ghosts more fascinating. Especially with 800,000 ghost soldiers��their imposing presence was captivating.


    Like Xianxian, Mr. Corpse also focused on the 800,000 ghost soldiers, his smile faint but present. Sha Po, however, was fixated on the distant blood wolves. His gaze eventually settled on the blood-faced man behind Guo Feng on the dragon tform.


    Noticing this man, Sha Po''s eyes lit up, and a wicked smile curled on his lips. As Sha Po stared at him, the blood-faced man also nced at Sha Po and Xianxian, his brow furrowing slightly. Though he couldn''t discern their exact cultivation levels, the blood-faced man had a strange instinctual feeling��they were wolves. This intuition was a natural sense of kinship, for the blood-faced man himself was a blood wolf.


    When Guo Feng''s army had arrived earlier, the ragged drunkard behind Yan Chongzhi had remained his disheveled self, sleeping and scratching. However, upon the arrival of Zhong Shan''s Great Zheng Dynasty, he had opened his eyes briefly, a gleam of sharpness shing before they clouded over again and he went back to sleep, as if nothing had happened.


    Zhong Shan sat on his dragon chair, hisrge sleeves fluttering as he ced his hands on the armrests, looking at the two emperors opposite him.


    "Great Zheng Dynasty, Zhong Shan, greets you both!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Great Ying Dynasty, Yan Chongzhi, greets Zhong Shan!" Yan Chongzhi said, looking at Zhong Shan in the distance.


    "Great Xun Dynasty, Guo Feng, long time no see!" Guo Feng said with a twisted smile as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    With this, the two dynasties officially acknowledged Zhong Shan''s status as the emperor of the Great Zheng Dynasty.


    "Zhong Shan! You know the rules of thend wager, don''t you?" Guo Feng asked.


    "I''ve heard a little. Do you have any new tricks up your sleeve?" Zhong Shan asked, smiling at Guo Feng.


    "New tricks? Ha, I just want to ask, how many cities is your Great Zheng Dynasty willing to wager?" Guo Feng smirked.


    "The Great Zheng Dynasty is new, so I''d like to hear your opinions first," Zhong Shan deflected.


    "How about ten cities?" Guo Feng asked with a sinister smile.


    Ten cities? In previous three-dynastynd wagers, each dynasty usually wagered five cities, with the highest being eight. Guo Feng''s proposal of ten cities was bold, nearly one-third of their territory. It was as if he was certain he could take advantage of Zhong Shan, the neer.


    "Yan Chongzhi, what do you think?" Zhong Shan turned to the southwest, addressing Yan Chongzhi.


    "Ten cities? The Great Ying Dynasty can manage that," Yan Chongzhi responded, seemingly testing Zhong Shan''s reaction.


    "Heh," Zhong Shan let out a soft, thoughtful chuckle.


    "What''s wrong? Is the emperor of the Great Zheng Dynasty scared?" Guo Feng taunted with a sneer.


    Guo Feng''s confidants all wore looks of schadenfreude, while behind Zhong Shan, Xianxian''s eyes shed with anger. The others, however, remained as steady as mountains.


    This was a conversation among emperors. Regardless of their emotions, no one else dared to voice their opinions. That was the rule.


    Zhong Shan''s smile turned enigmatic as he said, "Ten cities��isn''t that a bit too little?"

 Chapter 542:Gambling Battle

    <h4>Chapter 542:Gambling Battle</h4>


    Zhong Shan smiled enigmatically and said, "Ten cities��isn''t that a bit too little?"


    Guo Feng, who had been smirking condescendingly, froze at Zhong Shan''s words.


    "Uh?" Guo Feng was taken aback. Ten cities too few? One-third of the territory not enough?


    Zhong Shan''s boldness was shocking. Yan Chongzhi, not far away, first tensed up and then looked at Guo Feng with a yful smile.


    Guo Feng''s eyes widened, his face flushing slightly.


    "Then how many cities do you think would be sufficient?" Guo Feng asked, staring at Zhong Shan.


    "Seeing that you can''t offer much, let''s say fifteen cities," Zhong Shan said casually with a smile.


    Guo Feng took a deep breath. Fifteen cities? In principle, the wager should not exceed half the territory, but Zhong Shan had proposed nearly half at once.


    Zhong Shan''s audacity stunned the three dynasties. Guo Feng''s face turned red with anger, feeling that Zhong Shan was mocking him.


    "What''s wrong? Too few?" Zhong Shan asked with a teasing smile.


    "Hmph!" Guo Feng snorted coldly.


    "What do you think of my proposal, Yan Chongzhi?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Yan Chongzhi.


    Yan Chongzhi, initially an observer, was now pulled into the fray. His expression shifted slightly, but he nodded and smiled, "I agree."


    "I agree?" Yan Chongzhi agreed to wager half of his dynasty''s territory?


    Zhong Shan looked at Yan Chongzhi with a bit of admiration. Regardless of Yan Chongzhi''s actual capabilities, his courage was something Guo Fengcked.


    Hearing Yan Chongzhi''s agreement, Guo Feng''s expression changed.


    "Guo Feng, what about you?" Zhong Shan asked with a slight smile.


    Guo Feng hesitated, his expression darkening. Half the territory was a significant gamble, causing him to pause. After a moment of contemtion, Guo Feng''s eyes showed a fierce resolve, and he coldly smiled, "Alright, as you wish!"


    "Good!" Zhong Shan responded with a smile.


    The three emperors reached a consensus, each wagering fifteen cities��half their respective territories.


    Forty-five cities were ced as the wager, set for the three emperors topete over.


    "Choose your cities," Guo Feng said to Zhong Shan.


    "Please, after you," Zhong Shan replied, smiling as he let Guo Feng go first.


    At this moment, an official flew from behind Guo Feng''s dragon chair to the center of Yinmi Square. With a hand gesture, he projected a massive map above the square using a spell.


    The map disyed the territories of the three dynasties outside the forbidden zone.


    Guo Feng pointed at the map, selecting fifteen cities, which turned red. Yan Chongzhi then selected his fifteen cities.


    Following their example, Zhong Shan used a spell to select fifteen border cities.


    Once the cities were selected, there was no turning back��this was a matter of the dynasties'' honor.


    The official who had projected the map recited the names of the forty-five cities, ensuring everyone memorized them before retracting the map.


    "The wager is divided into two parts; you know the rules, right?" Guo Feng asked, staring at Zhong Shan.


    "Naturally!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    Thend wager involved a contest of overall strength and individual prowess. The overall strength was tested through the military capabilities of each dynasty, while individual prowess was tested through selected champions fighting to the death.


    "Deploy the troops!" the official who had previously disyed the map called out.


    Lin Xiao bowed to Zhong Shan, then leaped off the dragon tform, leading 200,000 soldiers to the center of Yinmi Square.


    Yan Chongzhi''s subordinate, a general, led 200,000 ghost soldiers forward.


    Guo Feng''s subordinate brought forward 100,000 infantry and 100,000 wolf cavalry.


    "The Great Ying Dynasty''s army will enter the Yinmi Mountains from the south, the Great Xun Dynasty''s army from the west, and the Great Zheng Dynasty''s army from the east!" the official announced.


    The Yinmi Mountains were shrouded in a powerful formation, filled with dense ck fog that severely limited visibility and hampered spiritual sense. Moreover, flight was impossible within the mountains, simr to the geomantic array once set by the mud Buddha. The fog of the sixty-four cities ensured that no one could fly within.


    The armies would fight within this fog-covered battlefield. Victory was achieved by capturing the enemy''smand g or annihting their forces.


    "Your Majesty, I will lead the troops into the mountains and secure more cities for the Great Xun Dynasty!" the Great Xun general vowed to Guo Feng.


    "Very well," Guo Feng nodded.


    The general saluted and led his 100,000 infantry and 100,000 wolf cavalry towards the northwest, preparing to enter the mountains from the west.


    "Your Majesty, I will lead the troops into the mountains and secure more cities for the Great Ying Dynasty!" the Great Ying general vowed to Yan Chongzhi.


    "Do your best," Yan Chongzhi replied.


    The ghost general nodded firmly and led his 200,000 ghost soldiers towards the north, preparing to enter the mountains from the south.


    "Your Majesty, I will lead the troops into the mountains and capture both enemy gs!" Lin Xiao vowed to Zhong Shan.


    The 200,000 Great Zheng soldiers were eager and ready for battle.


    "Bring out the hero''s wine. I want to toast Lin Xiao!" Zhong Shan suddenly dered.


    A toast to Lin Xiao? Guo Feng raised an eyebrow, and Yan Chongzhi looked slightly surprised. Was Zhong Shan trying to win Lin Xiao''s loyalty or motivate his army?


    Zhong Shan stepped down from the dragon tform, and Lin Xiao stepped forward.


    Two attendants approached, one holding a tray with two goblets and a jug of fine wine. The other attendant uncorked the jug and poured the golden wine into the goblets.


    As the wine was poured, the scruffy old drunkard behind Yan Chongzhi, who had been lying on a lounge chair with a wine gourd, suddenly twitched his nose. His eyes brightened, and he jumped up, staring intently at the wine near Zhong Shan.


    "Good wine~~~!" the old man eximed joyfully. In a sh, he left a mere afterimage as he rushed towards the jug of wine near Zhong Shan.


    He moved incredibly fast, almost reaching the jug in an instant.


    "Whoosh~~~!"


    A gust of wind blew, and the old man stopped in front of the attendant holding the wine. He hadn''t grabbed the wine; he had been stopped.


    A ck shadow stood in his way.


    It was Sha Po. The moment the old man moved, Sha Po intervened, blocking him with incredible speed. Both moved so quickly that the emperors of the other two dynasties tensed up, especially the blood-faced man behind Guo Feng, who stared intently at Sha Po.


    Sha Po was no ordinary being; he was at the peak of the Emperor Extreme Realm, one of the strongest in the world. As soon as the old man moved, Sha Po anticipated his direction and, in his duty to protect Zhong Shan, intercepted him with full force.


    The old man, blocked by Sha Po, squinted his eyes but then started acting foolishly,ughing and joking.


    "What do you want?" Zhong Shan asked coldly.


    "I have a lifelong love for good wine. This wine of yours smells unusual. I can''t discern what it''s made from. Could I have some to taste?" the old man asked, stillughing and joking.


    What was it made from? It was wine brought from the Yang Realm, made from fruits rarely found in the Underworld. Naturally, it was unfamiliar to most here.


    Zhong Shan nced at Yan Chongzhi in the distance, who wore a faint, helpless smile.


    Zhong Shan looked back at the old man. The old man, blocked by Sha Po, looked pitifully at the wine, his eyes refusing to stray from it.


    "This is hero''s wine. We''ll talk after I''ve offered my toast," Zhong Shan said, ignoring the old man.


    He picked up a goblet, and Lin Xiao also picked up a goblet.


    "May you return victorious!" Zhong Shan dered loudly.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Lin Xiao responded in kind.


    This gesture was for the benefit of the entire army. The 200,000 soldiers behind Lin Xiao watched eagerly, their fighting spirit soaring.


    "Be careful in the mountains. If necessary, retreat. I don''t want anything to happen to you," Zhong Shan whispered. While Lin Xiao was highly capable, he was still rtively new to the Underworld, unaware of its many peculiarities. Zhong Shan would rather lose fifteen cities than lose Lin Xiao.


    "Understood," Lin Xiao said, touched.


    They drank together. Not far away, the old man''s eyes brightened.


    After finishing the drink, Lin Xiao led the 200,000 troops towards the northeast, preparing to enter the Yinmi Mountains from the east.


    Watching Lin Xiao depart, Zhong Shan turned to return to the dragon tform.


    "And the wine?" the old man called out immediately.


    Zhong Shan gave the old man a peculiar look and waved his hand. Sha Po stepped aside, allowing the old man to rush over to the remaining wine.


    Hugging the wine jug, the old man returned to Yan Chongzhi''s dragon tform.


    Zhong Shan ascended the dragon tform and sat down, watching the old man happily drinking from the wine jug in the distance.


    "The armies will fight in the Yinmi Mountains, deciding the fate of twenty-five cities. The remaining twenty cities will be contested by champions," the official called out again.


    Each dynasty would field ten champions for the individual contests��a long-standing rule. The victors would determine who imed the twenty cities.


    In the distance, Guo Feng looked back and spoke to the blood-faced man, who nodded in response.


    Then, from Guo Feng''s dragon tform, ten people descended, including the blood-faced man. Guo Feng was determined to im these twenty cities.


    "I''ll go, I''ll go. I want to fight him!" Xianxian said excitedly.


    Zhong Shan nced at Xianxian and nodded, "Sha Po, apany Xianxian."


    "Yes!" Sha Po responded respectfully.


    With Sha Po by her side, Zhong Shan wasn''t worried about Xianxian''s safety. These individual contests were to the death��there was no yielding.


    In the distance, the old man behind Yan Chongzhi, drinking and watching, noticed Sha Po''s respectful demeanor towards Zhong Shan. His expression changed repeatedly. He turned to Yan Chongzhi and whispered something.


    Yan Chongzhi, initially surprised, then nodded.


    From Yan Chongzhi''s dragon tform, ten people also descended, including the old man and nine ghost generals.


    The Great Xun Dynasty fielded ten champions, the Great Ying Dynasty ten, while the Great Zheng Dynasty had only two��Xianxian and Sha Po.


    "Haha, Zhong Shan, just two people?" Guo Fengughed.

 Chapter 543: Xianxian鈥檚 First Battle

    <h4>Chapter 543: Xianxian''s First Battle</h4>


    "Haha, Zhong Shan, you only have two people?" Guo Fengughed.


    Zhong Shan responded with a cold smile, not bothering to say more.


    Guo Feng''s amusement turned to a colder re as he looked at Zhong Shan, feeling more disdain.


    "Choose your opponents!" the official called out.


    This meant that each dynasty could start by having one of their champions pick an opponent.


    A ghost general nced at both sides��ten from the Great Xun Dynasty and only two from the Great Zheng Dynasty. He suddenly recalled what the old drunkard had said to Yan Chongzhi and, without expression, pointed at a man from the Great Xun Dynasty.


    The men from the Great Xun Dynasty seemed to have received instructions from the blood-faced man and did not provoke the Great Zheng Dynasty initially. One of them pointed at a ghost general.


    It was now the Great Zheng Dynasty''s turn.


    "That man with the mangled face, you!" Xianxian pointed rudely.


    "Mangled face?" The blood-faced man looked furious. His face was red because he was a blood wolf, not mangled.


    "Who are you?" the blood-faced man asked sternly.


    "How rude. You haven''t introduced yourself and you ask who I am?" Xianxian retorted arrogantly.


    The blood-faced man was infuriated. Who dared call him rude?


    Xianxian wasn''t intentionally provoking him. It was just how she was used to being treated. In the human realm, every wolf n member greeted her respectfully and called her "young master." Here in the underworld, the bloodline of Emperor Xuansha hadn''t extended, so the wolves temporarily couldn''t sense her nobility.


    "Bloodthirsty Luo," the blood-faced man replied, his eyes fixed on Xianxian.


    "Bloodthirsty Luo? What a terrible name!" Xianxianmented unkindly after pondering the name.


    Bloodthirsty Luo: "..."


    "Remember, I am Xianxian. From now on, all wolves in the underworld must obey me!" Xianxian dered unceremoniously.


    Hearing Xianxian''s audacious words, Guo Fengughed heartily from his dragon tform.


    "Hahaha..." Guo Feng''s followers joined in,ughing uproariously.


    Yan Chongzhi showed a hint of amusement. While others felt that Xianxian''s words were overly arrogant, they did not express it openly.


    On the Great Zheng Dynasty''s side, no oneughed. On the other side, two people did notugh either, their expressions turning serious��one was Bloodthirsty Luo, the other was the old drunkard from the Great Ying Dynasty.


    The old drunkard frowned slightly, while Bloodthirsty Luo''s face grew angrier.


    Bloodthirsty Luo stared at Xianxian, silent for a moment, his anger rising. Finally, heughed in fury, "All must obey you? Haha, ridiculous. If you want to die, don''t me me for not showing mercy to a fellow wolf!"


    Bloodthirsty Luo was genuinely enraged. As the leader of the blood wolves, who dared speak to him like that?


    "Sha Po!" Xianxian suddenly called out.


    "Yes!" Sha Po responded immediately.


    "Watch everyone. I want to handle this ugly guy alone!" Xianxianmanded.


    "Understood!" Sha Po replied respectfully.


    Seeing Xianxian and Sha Po''s interaction, the old drunkard was stunned. The girl was the master and the powerful man in ck was the servant? What a strange rtionship!


    Bloodthirsty Luo also watched coldly.


    "Begin!" the official shouted.


    Bloodthirsty Luo stepped forward.


    Three matches began simultaneously. In the distance, two matches pitted humans against ghosts. But here, Xianxian faced Bloodthirsty Luo in a battle of wolves.


    Others stood by, waiting their turn. The old drunkard moved a lounge chair from behind Yan Chongzhi and sat down to watch the three battles.


    Two wolves, both at the Emperor Extreme Realm, faced off.


    Bloodthirsty Luo nced at Xianxian coldly, not underestimating her. His form shifted.


    "Boom!"


    He transformed into a massive blood-red wolf, towering fifty meters high, exuding a fierce aura.


    The impressive transformation drew everyone''s attention, from emperors to soldiers, all eyes fixated on the giant blood wolf.


    "Hmph!" Xianxian snorted, not transforming herself.


    With a swift motion, she pulled out a finely crafted dagger, adorned with intricate patterns and embedded with numerous gems. It looked more like a piece of art than a weapon.


    "Little girl, are you giving up your advantage to fight me?" Bloodthirsty Luo sneered.


    "I''m going to beat you until you''re searching for your teeth on the ground!" Xianxian dered.


    "Hmph!" Bloodthirsty Luo snorted.


    He opened his huge maw and tested Xianxian with a roar.


    "Roar!"


    A powerful roar, apanied by a tremendous force, swept towards Xianxian like a mini-storm, kicking up dust and debris, tinged with a sinister blood-red hue.


    Xianxian''s dagger shed down from the sky.


    "Boom!"


    A bright white light burst forth, directly targeting Bloodthirsty Luo.


    "Bang!"


    The white light, unstoppable, collided with Bloodthirsty Luo''s gust, repelling it with sheer force. The impact created a massive crater in the ground, forcing Bloodthirsty Luo to leap away in rm.


    "A ninth-grade treasure?" Bloodthirsty Luo eximed.


    The intricate dagger Xianxian wielded was a ninth-grade treasure? Bloodthirsty Luo was stunned.


    Yan Chongzhi and Guo Feng, watching from a distance, were equally shocked. A ninth-grade treasure, just below the level of an immortal artifact, was typically possessed only by Sky Extreme Realm experts or emperors. Yet here, Zhong Shan''s subordinate wielded one so casually. What was Zhong Shan''s background?


    Bloodthirsty Luo eyed Xianxian''s dagger with a mix of shock and greed. Such a treasure!


    With a swift motion, a blood-red ripple emanated from Bloodthirsty Luo, radiating towards Xianxian.


    Xianxian swung her dagger again.


    "Buzz!"


    The dagger seemed to cut through air, the blood-red ripple extending towards it, causing the dagger to vibrate intensely.


    Seeing this, Bloodthirsty Luo took advantage and lunged at Xianxian. But Xianxian was ready. She channeled her energy into the dagger, stabilizing its tremor, andunched herself at Bloodthirsty Luo.


    Their sh was fierce and swift, with both wolves showcasing their formidable strength and agility. Xianxian''s dagger, infused with her energy, met Bloodthirsty Luo''s attacks head-on, each strike resonating with power.


    The onlookers, including the other emperors and their subordinates, watched in awe. This was not just a battle between two individuals but a disy of supreme skill and power.


    The fight continued, each move calcted, each strike precise. Bloodthirsty Luo''s blood-red aura shed with the radiant energy of Xianxian''s dagger, creating a mesmerizing disy of light and power.


    In the midst of this intense battle, it became clear that Xianxian was not to be underestimated. Her confidence, skill, and the power of her ninth-grade treasure made her a formidable opponent.


    As the fight progressed, Bloodthirsty Luo realized that this battle was not going to be easy. Xianxian''s determination and strength were evident, and she was proving to be a worthy adversary.


    The battle raged on, a testament to the power and prowess of both wolves, with the oue still uncertain.


    Xianxian nearly lost her grip but quickly steadied the dagger. Just then, the battle-hardened Bloodthirsty Luo appeared nearby, swiping at Xianxian with lightning speed.


    Xianxian, barely stabilizing her dagger, couldn''t counterattack in time. She could only leap back defensively.


    Bloodthirsty Luo''s w swipe wasn''t just a physical attack; it brought forth a blood mist that engulfed Xianxian. Within the blood mist, five gleaming shes, the ws of Bloodthirsty Luo, targeted her.


    "Boom!"


    Xianxian was sent flying, clearly heavily injured.


    From a distance, the Great Xun Dynasty''s people cheered while Sha Po and Zhong Shan remained unfazed, not intervening.


    Seizing the moment, Bloodthirsty Luo lunged again.


    Realizing she couldn''t keep this up, Xianxian transformed into a massive fifty-meter-tall white wolf as she was knocked away. The transformation unleashed a powerful aura.


    In wolf form, her attacks would be far more potent.


    "Boom!"


    The two wolves shed in mid-air, their massive ws creating a blinding white light. They separated, eachnding on opposite sides of the battlefield, ring at each other.


    "Roar!"


    "Roar!"


    The white and red wolves roared at each other.


    Xianxian bore five bloody gashes from Bloodthirsty Luo''s earlier attack. Her ninth-grade dagger hovered above her head, controlled by her mind, as she stared angrily at the ruthless Bloodthirsty Luo.


    The wolves roared once more and leapt at each other again.


    In mid-air, Bloodthirsty Luo''s form radiated red light, surrounded by blood mist, while Xianxian was enveloped in white light and mist.


    "Boom!"


    The collision of white and red mist created a fierce whirlwind, lifting stones and debris.


    The other two battles had stopped. The other two groups, humans versus ghosts, were at thebined period level. Their battles, no matter how spectacr, couldn''tpare to the Emperor Extreme Realm sh.


    The entire Yinmi Square shook from the wolves'' battle, with countless stones shattering. The deafening sounds made it hard for the lower-ranked soldiers and ghost soldiers on the outskirts to endure.


    The three emperors gestured for their armies to retreat along with their dragon tforms.


    The fierce battle turned the square into a chaotic mess, with Xianxian and Bloodthirsty Luo''s silhouettes shing across the field, their shockwaves destroying the square.


    The blood mist, upon contact with the ground, corroded it, withering all vegetation. Initially, Xianxian''s white mist didn''t have this effect, but gradually, it began to have the same corrosive property.


    "Boom!"


    Another sh sent the wolves apart. Bloodthirsty Luo bore numerous wounds, but Xianxian was worse off, her white fur stained red with blood, the ninth-grade dagger above her head also bloodied.


    "How is this possible? This ability, blood contamination, is unique to the blood wolf n. How can you use it too? Impossible!" Bloodthirsty Luo eximed.


    Different wolves had different abilities. Blood contamination was unique to blood wolves. How could Xianxian, a white wolf, use it?


    "Hmph!" Xianxian, now covered in wounds, was furious and ignored his question.


    Bending her legs, she charged again, her ninth-grade dagger emitting a fierce aura under her mental control.

 Chapter 544: Blood Oath

    <h4>Chapter 544: Blood Oath</h4>


    Both Eng and Xue Xie Luo were at the Huang Ji realm, but Xue Xie Luo had far morebat experience, delivering devastating blows to Xianxian. The battlefield had sunk over ten meters, drawing everyone''s attention with the sheer intensity of their sh.


    Xianxian, though wielding a ninth-grade fierce de, couldn''t instantly acquire the necessarybat experience. The two wolves fought fiercely, umting more wounds as the battle raged on for an entire day and night.


    Despite the fatigue, Eng kept fighting relentlessly. Xianxian had lost a significant amount of blood, but her determination remained unshaken. She couldn''t afford to lose, not for her grandfather, not for herself, and not for Zhongshan. She absolutely couldn''t be defeated!


    Xianxian''s eyes were swollen from the battle, and Xue Xie Luo wasn''t faring much better. Despite his vast experience, Xianxian''s growth was astonishing. From being on the defensive initially, she had learned to counterattack within a single day. The fight grew increasingly difficult for Xue Xie Luo, especially with Xianxian''s ninth-grade fierce de aiding her.


    "Roar~~~!" Xue Xie Luo let out a ferocious roar, his eyes zing with a sinister red light. His body suddenly swelled, ready to go all out.


    The overwhelming aura charged towards Xianxian, the bloody energy seeming as if it would pulverize her in one blow. Xianxian''s expression hardened as she watched Xue Xie Luo''s movements. Her ninth-grade fierce de shed towards him with fierce determination.


    "Boom~~~!"


    The fine de erupted with a vast and powerful energy, sending shockwaves in all directions. At the epicenter, blood mist and dust clouds obscured everything from view. When the dust finally settled, a shocking scene unfolded.


    The ground was utterly transformed. The once formidable ninth-grade fierce de was now embedded in the earth, significantly dimmed and riddled with cracks. Xue Xie Luoy bleeding from his seven orifices, and Xianxian, covered in blood, stood with one foot on his head, looking ferocious.


    "Did she detonate the energy within the ninth-grade treasure?" a minister behind Guo Feng eximed in shock.


    "This... this! The ninth-grade treasure has degraded to an eighth-grade one!" another person said in surprise.


    Xianxian had sacrificed her precious treasure for victory, willing to degrade it by one grade. The once overwhelmingly powerful ninth-grade fierce de was now just an eighth-grade weapon.


    Despite her swollen eyes and severe injuries, Xianxian continued to press her foot on Xue Xie Luo. It seemed she could crush his skull with just a little more force. The ten thousand blood wolves opposite her stirred restlessly.


    Xianxian''s eyes turned cold as she spat out a drop of blood, which floated in the air. She began chanting what seemed like an incantation, the drop of blood emitting a strange red glow.


    "With this blood, I swear, you will forever be loyal to me!" Xianxian dered fiercely.


    "Roar~~~!"


    Xue Xie Luo refused to submit, and the ten thousand blood wolves in the distance finally grew enraged. A blood oath from the wolf n? This ability was unique to demonic beasts that could merge their lifeforce into their bloodline. Furthermore, the blood rank had to be higher than the wolf making the oath. Once Xue Xie Luo took this blood oath, his lifeforce could never surpass Xianxian''s. He would be eternally inferior, his cultivation regressing to the Nascent Soul stage, never able to stand on equal footing with Xianxian.


    Chapter 544: Blood Oath


    "Roar~~~!"


    The ten thousand blood wolves let out a long howl, their rage palpable. Suddenly, nearly fifty blood wolves, each towering forty meters high, charged towards Xue Xie Luo, seeking revenge and aiming to rescue their king. As these fifty wolves surged forward, the rest followed suit, forming an unstoppable, formidable army.


    But at this moment, Sha Po stepped between Xianxian and Xue Xie Luo, facing the oing horde of blood wolves with an angry expression. Opening his mouth, Sha Po let out a thunderous roar directed at the blood wolves.


    "Roar~~~!"


    Sha Po''s roar was incredibly powerful, resonating for a full fifty breaths. The sound waves shook the air, stirring up endless currents and causing many lower-ranked soldiers'' eardrums to burst and their internal organs to shift. The blood wolves in the sky were shaken to the ground, and those on the ground were forced back by the overwhelming wolfish might, retreating over ten meters and leaving deep grooves in the earth with their ws.


    Sha Po, in his Emperor Extreme Realm, was terrifyingly strong. His roar alone was enough to force back the ten thousand blood wolves. This was the power of an alpha wolf, a wolf far superior to their king, a wolf a hundred times stronger.


    Most of the ten thousand blood wolves prostrated themselves, choosing to submit. This was the way of the wolf pack. No matter how the wolf riders shouted ormanded, the blood wolves ignored them, bowing low in submission to Sha Po. This was an internal matter of the wolf n, beyond the interference of the wolf riders.


    Seeing Sha Po''s overpowering roar, Xue Xie Luo realized how naive he had been. This wolf was so strong that he had no chance of resisting. With no other choice, Xue Xie Luo chose to submit.


    Reluctantly, Xue Xie Luo began chanting the unique wolf n incantation. A faint red glow appeared above his head, and Xianxian''s drop of blood slowly descended towards Xue Xie Luo''s head.


    "Stop him, quickly!" Guo Feng shouted, finally realizing the danger.


    Many soldiers of the Da Xun Dynasty charged forward, with the nine who had participated in the duel leading the way.


    "Hmph!" Sha Po snorted coldly.


    With a flick of his hand, Sha Po struck out with a palm.


    "Boom~~~!"


    The nine were sent flying, vomiting blood from Sha Po''s powerful strike. The others who charged forward were cowed by Sha Po''s fierce gaze, copsing to the ground.


    Sha Po''s gaze, infused with mental power, obliterated the spirit of anyone itnded upon. No one was left standing.


    Sha Po''s dominance was overwhelming. How could he be so strong?


    "How can the Da Zeng Dynasty have such a powerful individual? How is this possible?" Guo Feng eximed in disbelief.


    The blood oath waspleted. Xianxian released the barely alive Xue Xie Luo.


    To Xue Xie Luo''s surprise, his cultivation level hadn''t fallen. He was still at the Emperor Extreme Realm. How could this be?


    At that moment, Xianxian suddenly felt incredibly weak, her body swaying as she transformed into a small half-foot-tall wolf, covered in blood and barely able to stand.


    From the dragon tform, Zhong Shan saw this and waved his hand, catching Xianxian and feeding her several pills. Using a spell, he cleansed all the blood from her body, leaving her clean and holding her gently on hisp.


    Xianxian seemed utterly exhausted and fell asleep just like that. Zhong Shan looked at Xianxian, shook his head, and chuckled softly.


    Below the dragon tform, Sha Po had just obliterated nine people with one strike and now turned his gaze towards the Da Ying Dynasty''s side, specifically the group of nine ghosts.


    "Let''s settle this once and for all," Sha Po said, raising his hand and sending out a powerful palm strike.


    From a distance, the Old Wine Man saw the impending danger. He shed forward and intercepted Sha Po''s strike with his own palm.


    "Boom~~~!"


    The powerful collision of their palms caused the ground beneath them to crack like a spider web. A strong gust of wind blew outwards from their hands, shaking the earth as if in an earthquake. The armies of the three dynasties wobbled, astonished by the two figures in the center of the field.


    The Old Wine Man and Sha Po separated, both looking at each other in surprise.


    "Emperor Extreme Realm?"


    Sha Po was shocked to see that the Old Wine Man was also in the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    In the distance, Yan Chongzhi frowned deeply. An equal match with the Old Wine Man?


    "Zhong Shan, how about we call this duel a draw between our two dynasties?" Yan Chongzhi quickly suggested.


    Yan Chongzhi actually didn''t want the Old Wine Man to exert himself too much. The more the Old Wine Man exerted, the more his debt of gratitude to Yan Chongzhi would be repaid. As an emperor, Yan Chongzhi valued such intangible debts highly.


    Zhong Shan nced at Yan Chongzhi, then at the Old Wine Man with a peculiar look, and smiled, "Alright."


    The Old Wine Man looked at Yan Chongzhi, then at Zhong Shan, frowned slightly, but said nothing and retreated, rejoining the nine ghosts on the dragon tform.


    Sha Po turned to look at Xue Xie Luo, tossing a purple pill into his mouth.


    Xue Xie Luo swallowed it immediately, feeling the pill dissolve into energy, quickly healing his wounds and replenishing his strength.


    "An eighth-grade pill?"


    Xue Xie Luo was surprised by the potency of the pill. He stood up, transforming back into his human form, though still disheveled and injured.


    "Thank you!" Xue Xie Luo bowed respectfully to Sha Po.


    "Don''t thank me, thank the Young Master," Sha Po replied, shaking his head.


    Others might not have heard, but Xue Xie Luo was taken aback. Young Master? The one who forced him to take the blood oath was just the Young Master? There was an even more powerful master above this incredibly strong wolf?


    Xue Xie Luo was astonished. He looked towards the dragon tform where Xianxian was sleeping on Zhong Shan''sp, his face showing a mix of surprise and curiosity. Clearly, the white wolf he had sworn loyalty to was under themand of this human. And the powerful ck-robed wolf also obeyed him?


    Who exactly was this person?


    Xue Xie Luo wasn''t the only one thinking this. Everyone, including Guo Feng, looked at Zhong Shan with eyes filled with suspicion and doubt. Who exactly was he?


    Yan Chongzhi also took a deep breath as he looked at Zhong Shan. Just how powerful was this man? Although his dynasty had the strong Old Wine Man, he was there for special reasons and couldn''t be controlled by Yan Chongzhi. But on the other side? The ck-robed man who was evenly matched with the Old Wine Man showed utter respect to Zhong Shan, behaving like a subordinate. Who exactly was Zhong Shan? The more Yan Chongzhi thought about it, the more he felt a chill run down his spine.

 Chapter 545: The Wisdom of Yan Chongzhi

    <h4>Chapter 545: The Wisdom of Yan Chongzhi</h4>


    The Yinmi za was utterly transformed, now a vast ruin with cracks and deep depressions, looking extremely eerie. The three dynasties'' dragon tforms still stood, but the emperors'' emotions had changed significantly.


    Especially for the Da Xun Dynasty, Guo Feng''s eyes were bloodshot, his fists clenched, almost ready to challenge Zhong Shan personally. An earth-shattering reversal had urred.


    Two days ago, after Xianxian made Xue Xie Luo swear a blood oath, Xue Xie Luo and his ten thousand blood wolves left the Da Xun Dynasty''s army and stood before Zhong Shan''s dragon tform, respectfully waiting. Xue Xie Luo even waited before the tform for Xianxian to wake up.


    The three dynasties hadn''t left yet, partly because they were waiting for the results from the Yinmi Mountains, where the ownership of the remaining twenty-five cities was still undecided. It was clear that the Da Xun Dynasty had suffered a great loss��not only in territory but also in losing their national beasts. The blood wolf n had been lured away by the Da Zeng Dynasty.


    "Yawn~~~!"


    Xianxianzily yawned, finally waking up. She blinked her eyes open and found herself lying in Zhong Shan''s arms again, feeling incrediblyfortable.


    Before she could transform into a human, Xianxian''s favorite ce was sleeping in Zhong Shan''s arms. Zhong Shan had always doted on her. After she became human, she lost that privilege. She never expected that getting injured would allow her to sleep there again.


    Smelling the familiar scent, Xianxian squinted her eyes, pretending not to be awake. Such a big yawn��anyone would know she was awake, pretending otherwise.


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    "Xue Xie Luo greets the Lord," Xue Xie Luo called out respectfully.


    In these two days, Xue Xie Luo hade to understand everything. His cultivation hadn''t decreased, meaning Xianxian''s life force hadn''t suppressed his due to the blood oath. This could only mean that Xianxian''s life force was nobler than that of the Emperor Extreme Realm. Heavenly life force? No wonder she was so bold.


    Moreover, Sha Po, who was in the Emperor Extreme Realm, respectfully addressed her as the Young Master, implying there was a master above Sha Po. If Sha Po was in the Emperor Extreme Realm, then his master must be in the Heavenly Extreme Realm. A Heavenly Extreme Realm wolf n?


    How could he not know of a Heavenly Extreme Realm wolf n in the underworld? But the fact was that the Young Master''s life force surpassed the Emperor Extreme Realm, implying the old master''s life force was even higher.


    It was impossible for Xue Xie Luo not to feel regret, but knowing their strength greatly diminished his regret.


    "That wolf general is calling you," Zhong Shan nudged Xianxian.


    Knowing she couldn''t pretend any longer, Xianxian reluctantly transformed back into her human form, ring at Xue Xie Luo.


    "Hmm, that ugly guy, since you''ve be my subordinate, stay in the Da Zeng Dynasty, behave, and don''t embarrass me," Xianxian said bluntly.


    "Yes!" Xue Xie Luo replied, his face twitching slightly.


    Without needing further instructions, Xue Xie Luo led the ten thousand blood wolves to join Zhong Shan''s army.


    In the distance, Guo Feng watched as Xue Xie Luo joined the Da Zeng ranks, unable to hide his hatred. His eyes were bloodshot, ring at Zhong Shan, but knowing Zhong Shan''s power, he held back his anger and didn''tsh out.


    An Emperor Extreme Realm? How could a dynasty possess someone in the Emperor Extreme Realm? How many Emperor Extreme Realm experts existed in the underworld? This one dynasty harbored one? No, the Da Ying Dynasty also harbored an Emperor Extreme Realm expert. Has the world changed? How did these two dynasties conceal their power so deeply?


    Just as Guo Feng was feeling both furious and fearful,


    "Whoosh~~~!"


    From the southern part of the Yinmi Mountains, which was the northern part of Yinmi za, a troop suddenly emerged. The vanguard wasposed of human soldiers.


    The Da Zeng Dynasty?


    Yan Chongzhi and Guo Feng were both surprised to see the approaching army, clearly dressed in Da Zeng military uniforms. They had emerged first?


    As the soldiers stepped forward, argemanding g followed, carried by Lin Xiao, also emerging from the Yinmi Mountains.


    Lin Xiao!


    Themander of the first corps of the Da Zeng Dynasty, the Great General Lin Xiao!


    Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with satisfaction upon seeing Lin Xiao. As long as Lin Xiao was safe, everything else could be managed.


    Not only had Lin Xiao emerged, but he also brought two additionalrgemanding gs.


    In just over three days, less than four, Lin Xiao had seized themanding gs of the other two armies?


    So fast!


    How did he lead the army? Three days? He did it in just three days?


    As Lin Xiao emerged, the distant figures of the other two armies became visible, each soldier exhausted and wounded.


    The Da Zeng Dynasty had achieved a great victory!


    "Congrattions, Emperor of Da Zeng!" Yan Chongzhi called out from afar with a smile.


    "Hmm!" Zhong Shan nodded amicably.


    "Move out~~~!" Guo Feng, his face twisted with rage, waved his sleeve andmanded his dragon tform to lead his army away.


    Fifteen cities, lost in a single wager, nearly half of the Da Xun Dynasty''s territory. This kind of territorial gamble was very popr in the underworld, and everyone had to follow the rules. Failing to return the lost territories would mean making enemies of all the dynasties, and both the Da Zeng and Da Ying Dynasties would wage war against the Da Xun Dynasty.


    Considering the formidable disy of power by the Da Zeng and Da Ying Dynasties during this territorial gamble, Guo Feng dared not default.


    "Lin Xiao did not disappoint!" Lin Xiao, leading the remaining 180,000 troops, respectfully reported to Zhong Shan.


    "Well done!" Zhong Shan said to the entire army.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" the army responded in unison.


    Lin Xiao rejoined the ranks of the Da Zeng troops.


    As for the other two forces, the Da Ying Dynasty''s ghost army was reduced to 80,000, while the Da Xun Dynasty''s infantry was entirely wiped out. The wolf n lost only 10,000, thanks to Lin Xiao''s deliberate mercy.


    The powerful Da Zeng army!


    In past territorial gambles within the Yinmi Mountains, wars oftensted ten days to half a month. This time, it took only three days, showcasing Lin Xiao''s strength.


    "Zhong Shan, from now on, the five cities along the Jiang River belong to Da Zeng," Yan Chongzhi conceded, epting his loss.


    "Thank you for the concession," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Yan Chongzhi then directed his dragon tform to lead the ghost army back the way they came, ending the territorial gamble.


    Da Xun, losing fifteen cities, was shaken to its core.


    Da Ying, losing five cities, suffered minor losses.


    Da Zeng, gaining twenty cities, saw its national strength soar!


    Lin Xiao boarded the dragon tform, and Zhong Shan led the Da Zeng Dynasty''s army back home in triumph. The entire nation celebrated!


    On the way back to the Da Ying Dynasty,


    Yan Chongzhi nced at the Old Wine Man, who was deep in thought beside him.


    "Senior, what do you make of this Da Zeng Dynasty?" Yan Chongzhi asked.


    The ghost generals nearby remained silent, listening intently, also trying to analyze the situation.


    The Old Wine Man took out the jar of wine he had previously received from Zhong Shan.


    "What is it?" Yan Chongzhi asked, slightly surprised.


    "This wine, it''s not from the underworld," the Old Wine Man said after some thought.


    "Oh?" Yan Chongzhi was slightly surprised.


    "The fruits used to brew this winee from the yang world. The wine contains the essence of golden sunlight and silver moonlight," the Old Wine Man exined.


    Golden sunlight and silver moonlight, only present in the yang world; the underworld only has purple sunlight and red moonlight.


    "The yang world?" Yan Chongzhi frowned.


    "Indeed. Among those people, Sha Po had the highest cultivation, but he was strangely respectful towards Zhong Shan. And that little wolf was also quite puzzling," the Old Wine Man said, frowning.


    "That''s not right!" Yan Chongzhi''s eyes widened with realization, his expression growing serious.


    "Oh?" The Old Wine Man looked at Yan Chongzhi.


    "Sha Po is powerful, in the Emperor Extreme Realm, but he''s not the strongest on that dragon tform. There are at least two people stronger than him!" Yan Chongzhi said suddenly.


    "Uh?" The Old Wine Man was slightly taken aback.


    "Firstly, Zhong Shan. When Zhong Shan looks at Sha Po, he doesn''t have that eager, fervent look of someone seeking capable subordinates. He''s very casual, yet Sha Po is incredibly respectful to him. This shows that, based purely on strength, Zhong Shan can suppress Sha Po!" Yan Chongzhi stated confidently.


    "Hmm!" The Old Wine Man nodded.


    "Secondly, there was a pale man standing behind Zhong Shan. Do you remember him?" Yan Chongzhi asked seriously.


    Yan Chongzhi had a keen eye, noticing even those who seemed insignificant behind Zhong Shan.


    "The one with a deathly aura? I sensed a hint of corpse energy from him, but he wasn''t a zombie. He was still human," the Old Wine Man recalled.


    "His name is Mr. Corpse. In the entire Da Zeng Dynasty, he only bows to Zhong Shan," Yan Chongzhi said, taking a deep breath.


    Only bows to Zhong Shan? Yan Chongzhi''s thorough investigation was impressive. Knowing oneself and the enemy is the key to victory, and Yan Chongzhi was meticulous in his approach. The Old Wine Man, while admiring Yan Chongzhi''s ability, began to recall earlier events in detail.


    "I remember now. Even when Sha Po disyed his immense power, Mr. Corpse''s eyes remained indifferent," a minister nearby recalled.


    "Indifferent? Why? Because he didn''t even consider Sha Po''s power significant!" Yan Chongzhi asserted.


    The Emperor Extreme Realm? To think nothing of it?


    How could that be? The ministers were bewildered.


    "And then there''s that white wolf, Xianxian. It''s peculiar how Sha Po, in the Emperor Extreme Realm, is so respectful to her," another minister shook his head.


    "And Lin Xiao. Achieving such a remarkable feat in just three days? That''s unbelievable!" another ministermented, frowning deeply.


    "These four individuals appeared with Zhong Shan, emerging out of nowhere, and in just six years, they conquered the Da Xian Dynasty and established the Da Zeng Dynasty. It seems highly likely that Zhong Shan is a formidable figure from the yang world," Yan Chongzhi spected.


    In a short time, based on small details like Mr. Corpse''s expressions, Yan Chongzhi deduced Zhong Shan''s background. Truly remarkable. This man was indeed wise and strategic, befitting an emperor.


    "But, Your Majesty, the yin and yang realms are not connected. Only when a yang world person dies and bes a ghost, or when a ghost reincarnates into the yang world, can they travel back and forth. Otherwise, only immortals can do so. Could it be that this group has reached the immortal realm?" a minister pondered, frowning.


    "We don''t know for now!" Yan Chongzhi frowned deeply, still puzzled.

 Chapter 546: The Descent of the Golden Sun

    <h4>Chapter 546: The Descent of the Golden Sun</h4>


    The three dynasties wagered their territories, and Zhong Shan returned victorious. The Da Zeng Dynasty celebrated nationwide as they quickly took over the twenty cities they had won, growing ever more prosperous and powerful.


    In three years, the national strength of the Da Zeng Dynasty surged, and news of the dynasty possessing an Emperor Extreme Realm expert spread rapidly. Those who heard were astounded��an Emperor Extreme Realm expert in a dynasty? Incredible!


    People soon realized the implications. Beast kings, like Sha Po, merged their lifeforce with their bloodline and couldn''t establish dynasties of their own. They had to rely on powerful dynasties, ideally empires, but they often weren''t highly valued there. In a dynasty, however, their Emperor Extreme Realm power was highly significant and allowed them to achieve great feats. Zhong Shan had indeed struck extraordinary luck.


    Of course, people were unaware that behind Xuanjing, the capital, the Da Zeng Dynasty also had an even more formidable Heavenly Extreme Realm Skeleton King. If they knew this, their reactions would be even more profound.


    In three years, Zhong Shan''s governance led to a scene of flourishing strength. The Da Zeng military grew increasingly powerful. Over nearly ten years, the Da Zeng Dynasty had established a solid foundation in the underworld.


    In the pce, at the morning court, Zhong Shan convened in a hall identical to the "Hall of Longevity" in the yang world, named:


    The Hall of Immortality!


    In the Hall of Immortality, Zhong Shan held court.


    "Your Majesty, the Western Biyun Empire has seen the descent of a star from beyond the heavens. The event has stirred the world, drawing countless heroes to it. Please decide our course of action!" a minister reported respectfully.


    "A star from beyond the heavens?" Zhong Shan pondered.


    "The star descended like a golden sun, sinking into the Great Ze Ghost Domain of the Biyun Empire. It vanished uponnding, and despite numerous investigations, no traces could be found," the minister exined.


    "Hmm, I understand," Zhong Shan nodded but said no more.


    After the court session, a few key ministers remained: Lin Xiao, Mr. Corpse, and two newly appointed officials.


    "What do you make of this?" Zhong Shan asked them.


    "Your Majesty, it likely originates from the Great Thousand World," Mr. Corpse said.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded, agreeing that something from beyond the heavens could onlye from the Great Thousand World.


    "A golden sun descending from the sky��it must be no ordinary object. It could be a great treasure, or possibly a significant figure from the Great Thousand World," Mr. Corpse continued.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was intrigued.


    "Entering this small thousand world isn''t something an ordinary immortal can achieve. Of course, there are rare cases of people entering by sheer luck, like a meteor. But this golden sun clearly isn''t a meteor. It''s either a great treasure or a significant figure, and in either case, powerful figures must be involved. I believe those who received the news won''t remain idle; they will surely head to the Biyun Empire," Mr. Corpse asserted confidently.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded, pondering for a moment.


    "Your Majesty, should we go?" Lin Xiao asked.


    "Such an unshielded descent, causing a worldwide sensation, must involve some scheme or hidden agenda. The Biyun Empire? The Great Ze Ghost Domain? I must go and see for myself. Lin Xiao, you will stay behind!" Zhong Shan decided immediately.


    "Understood!" Lin Xiao nodded.


    "At tomorrow''s morning court, I will assign you the necessary powers. Keep the capital secure for me. I will arrange for Sha Po to stay and assist you," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood!" Lin Xiao responded once more, with the two officials beside him nodding respectfully.


    "Mr. Corpse, Xianxian, you will apany me to the Great Ze Ghost Domain!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Mr. Corpse replied immediately. As for Xianxian, she was more than ready. She had been stifled in the capital for years and was eager for action.


    Da Ying Dynasty, Imperial Pce


    Yan Chongzhi had also received news of the Great Ze Ghost Domain and the descent of the golden sun. Unsurprisingly, the news had spread throughout the Biyun Empire and beyond. The Biyun Empire''s location in the eastern underworld was not far from Zhong Shan''s forbidden territory.


    After a brief court session, Yan Chongzhi headed directly to a secluded hall in the pce. Outside the hally numerous empty wine jars, filling the air with the scent of various liquors.


    "Senior!" Yan Chongzhi dismissed his guards and rushed into the hall.


    "Uh?" The Old Wine Man groggily opened his eyes, nced at Yan Chongzhi, and then closed them again to continue his sleep.


    "Senior, something significant has happened!" Yan Chongzhi said.


    "Even if it''s significant, don''t disturb my sleep!" the Old Wine Man mumbled.


    Yan Chongzhi smiled wryly. "But this is more significant than anything else."


    At these words, the Old Wine Man''s eyes snapped open, and his drunkenness seemed to dissipate instantly. He sat up straight.


    "What happened?" the Old Wine Man asked, frowning.


    "Senior, you asked me to keep an eye on the world''s happenings. Just recently, something major urred. In the Biyun Empire, a golden sun descended from the sky and vanished uponnding! It''s likely something from the Great Thousand World!" Yan Chongzhi exined.


    "Uh?" The Old Wine Man frowned in thought.


    "Senior, what do you think? Is this a sign of impending chaos?" Yan Chongzhi asked, staring at the Old Wine Man.


    "With great chaos on the horizon, this event adds anotheryer ofplexity. I must go and see for myself!" the Old Wine Man sighed deeply.


    "I will apany you, Senior. Who knows which significant figure from the Great Thousand World hase this time!" Yan Chongzhi immediately said.


    The Old Wine Man looked at Yan Chongzhi and eventually nodded. "Very well. Your clever mind might indeed be useful."


    "I''ll arrange matters in the court. By tomorrow afternoon at thetest, I''ll be ready to leave with you for the Biyun Empire!" Yan Chongzhi said.


    "Good."


    On the Way to the Biyun Empire


    Zhong Shan, along with Mr. Corpse and Xianxian, sped towards the Great Ze Ghost Domain. The three moved at incredible speed, covering vast distances in an instant. Among them, Mr. Corpse had the lowest cultivation, at the Nascent Soul stage, but he had his own methods to increase his speed, keeping pace with Xianxian.


    As for Zhong Shan, his shadow body and Emperor Extreme Realm cultivation allowed him to move faster than even some Emperor Extreme Realm experts, primarily depending on Xianxian''s maximum speed.


    After leaving the forbidden territory, they headed straight for the Great Ze Ghost Domain marked on their map.


    One monthter,


    On the outskirts of the Great Ze Ghost Domain, in a deep mountain, Zhong Shan and hispanions flew overhead.


    In the depths of the mountain, two figures stood: one in ckbat attire and the other a disheveled old man holding a wine gourd, fast asleep.


    As Zhong Shan flew past, the Old Wine Man''s eyes suddenly lit up. He jumped up and shot into the sky.


    Zhong Shan, slightly surprised, halted. The three of them looked back.


    The Old Wine Man stopped mid-air, and Yan Chongzhi slowly flew up from the valley below.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed as he regarded the approaching figures. The Old Wine Man and Yan Chongzhi were clearly formidable, and their sudden appearance indicated they were also drawn by the descent of the golden sun.


    "Haha, Zhong Shan, it seems we are destined to meet again! Do you have any of that wine you hadst time?" The Old Wine Man, acting familiarly, approached Zhong Shan with augh.


    "Emperor of Da Zeng, we meet again," Yan Chongzhi said with a slightly surprised smile.


    "Yan Chongzhi? How are you here?" Zhong Shan asked, equally surprised.


    "We came for the descent of the golden sun, of course. Aren''t you here for the same reason?" Yan Chongzhi replied, his smile deepening.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly. He had asked Yan Chongzhi why they were in this valley, but Yan Chongzhi''s response addressed the golden sun incident instead, skillfully evading the direct question while still providing an answer. This demonstrated Yan Chongzhi''s cleverness.


    "Yes, we are here for the same reason," Zhong Shan smiled back.


    "Zhong Shan, do you still have any of that wine?" The Old Wine Man asked.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan produced another jar of wine, which the Old Wine Man eagerly grabbed.


    "May I ask your name?" Zhong Shan inquired, looking at the Old Wine Man.


    "Just call me the Old Wine Man. I''ve forgotten my real name," the Old Wine Man replied, breaking the seal of the wine jar with a p.


    Xianxian, standing nearby, pouted and muttered, "Not very professional at all!"


    "Uh?" The Old Wine Man turned to look at Xianxian.


    "Did you say I''m not professional?" The Old Wine Man asked, looking at Xianxian with a strange expression.


    "Of course. Zhong Shan has told me many stories where characters like you, with troubled pasts, secrets, or some hidden ailments, all introduce themselves in a mysterious and tragic way. But you just blurted it out so casually. It''s not professional at all. At least show some nostalgic look in your eyes!" Xianxian said disdainfully.


    The Old Wine Man was speechless. Troubled past? Secret ailments? He could ept being called a crazy old man, but having hidden ailments? That was something he couldn''t tolerate. Only eunuchs in the pce had hidden ailments. His face turned red with frustration, but seeing the little girl Xianxian, he had to suppress his anger.


    "Xianxian, don''t be rude!" Zhong Shan quickly intervened. Even though Xianxian had hit the nail on the head, it was impolite to say such things in front of others.


    "Why are you not moving forward? Aren''t you entering the Great Ze Ghost Domain?" Zhong Shan asked the Old Wine Man, trying to change the subject.


    Zhong Shan could tell that Yan Chongzhi was a formidable character and might not reveal much. He decided to direct his question to the Old Wine Man instead.


    "Uh, there''s danger ahead," the Old Wine Man said straightforwardly.


    Yan Chongzhi frowned, wanting to stop him but ultimately held back.


    "Danger? Have you been inside?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "No," the Old Wine Man replied after taking a sip of wine.


    "No? Then how do you know there''s danger?" Xianxian interjected.


    "I can feel it," the Old Wine Man said.


    "Feel it?" Xianxian looked skeptical.


    Having been dismissed by Xianxian earlier, the Old Wine Man was sensitive to her disdain. Seeing her disbelief, he felt both frustrated and helpless.


    "I said there''s danger, so there is danger. Believe it or not!" The Old Wine Man said firmly.


    Hearing the Old Wine Man''s words, Zhong Shan''s eyes brightened. A feeling? Even without a concrete reason, he was so certain? While Xianxian didn''t believe the Old Wine Man, Zhong Shan did. Zhong Shan''s own true body had this ability.


    To predict good and bad fortunes!


    Zhong Shan''s true body could predict fortunes without any rationale, thanks to the Red Luan Powder Lotus. This was the basic ability of a "fortune cultivator," a skill Zhong Shan had never disclosed. Could it be that the Old Wine Man had the same ability?

 Chapter 547: The Great Ze Ghost Domain

    <h4>Chapter 547: The Great Ze Ghost Domain</h4>


    "Zhong Shan, let''s keep moving. Don''t listen to this crazy old man who just wants to scam wine!" Xianxian pouted.


    The Old Wine Man almost choked on his drink at her words. It felt like a cmity had struck him.


    "I believe him!" Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    The Old Wine Man had stated there was danger ahead, and he could have easily fabricated a reason. However, he hadn''t, which suggested he disdained lying. Moreover, Zhong Shan''s true body possessed a simr ability, so he chose to trust the Old Wine Man.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Yan Chongzhi raised an eyebrow in surprise. The Old Wine Man, clutching his wine jar, was momentarily stunned. Even he found his own exnation hard to believe, yet Zhong Shan believed him?


    Xianxian was annoyed, while Mr. Corpse silently observed, seeming to have noticed something.


    "You believe me?" The Old Wine Man asked, looking at Zhong Shan with a strange expression.


    "Naturally!" Zhong Shan affirmed with a nod.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s nod, the Old Wine Man''s expression grew even more peculiar. After a long stare, he finally said, "Give me two more jars of wine."


    Everyone: "..."


    "I told you, he only wants to scam wine!" Xianxian immediately eximed.


    After sessfully securing two more jars of wine, the Old Wine Man''s face reddened once more at Xianxian''s words, but his love for wine was undeniable.


    Da Xun Dynasty, Forbidden Territory


    In the court of the Da Xun Dynasty, a minister bowed and reported, "Your Majesty, as you predicted, following the descent of the golden sun in the Great Ze Ghost Domain, Zhong Shan has dyed his court sessions and headed to the Great Ze Ghost Domain."


    "Your Majesty, Yan Chongzhi of the Da Ying Dynasty has also left his capital for the Great Ze Ghost Domain," another minister added.


    "Good, good, good! Hahaha!" Emperor Guo Fengughed heartily.


    "This is a great opportunity, Your Majesty. With both emperors away, their armies will be demoralized. We should seize this chance to conquer both dynasties. This is a heaven-sent opportunity for Your Majesty!" a ttering minister suggested.


    "Indeed, this is a divine opportunity!" Guo Feng agreed.


    "Your Majesty, the Da Zeng Dynasty is now very powerful and has the blood wolves assisting them. Even without Zhong Shan, they are formidable. We should concentrate our forces and swiftly capture the Da Ying Dynasty before turning our attention to the Da Zeng Dynasty," another minister advised.


    "Your Majesty, we should first attack the Da Zeng Dynasty. With Zhong Shan away, it''s a golden opportunity. Once we capture the Da Zeng Dynasty, the Da Ying Dynasty will be insignificant," another strategist argued.


    While the Da Xun Dynasty was plotting their military campaign, Zhong Shan had joined forces with Yan Chongzhi and the Old Wine Man.


    As they flew, Yan Chongzhi suddenly asked, "Zhong Shan, are you familiar with the ancient divine powers?"


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted at the question, and both Xianxian and Mr. Corpse raised their eyebrows.


    "Uh? You know about ancient divine powers?" Xianxian asked in surprise.


    "Yan, you have keen insight!" Zhong Shan remarked.


    Zhong Shan realized that Yan Chongzhi had likely deduced their origins from the yang world. This confirmed Yan Chongzhi''s sharpness and astuteness.


    "You tter me. How can Ipare to you?" Yan Chongzhi replied with a smile.


    Yan Chongzhi was not being modest but expressing his genuine admiration. In just a few years, Zhong Shan had established the vast Da Zeng Dynasty, proving he was no ordinary individual.


    The others, meanwhile, exchanged bewildered nces, unable to follow the cryptic conversation between the two.


    "Zhong Shan, I used to be a First ss Eastern Duke of the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty," Zhong Shan openly revealed.


    "Ah, that exins Zhong Shan''s remarkable abilities. The Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty and its ancient divine powers are truly extraordinary!" Yan Chongzhi remarked with a hint of admiration.


    "How did Yan Chongzhi know about the ancient divine powers?" Zhong Shan asked, curious.


    "Such a monumental event as the creation of heaven and earth, how could we not know? Even though the ancient divine power used ''Houtu'' to shock the earth and seal the underworld, the underworld was still in turmoil. Such a grand feat cannot go unnoticed. Although it ultimately failed, the final strike created countless rifts between heaven and earth, allowing many people from the yang world to enter the underworld. I''ve been specting how Zhong Shan arrived in the underworld. Was it during that time, several decades ago, when the yang world armies entered the underworld?" Yan Chongzhi asked, eyeing Zhong Shan intently.


    Zhong Shan understood Yan Chongzhi''s probing. Answering yes would be too direct and seem insincere, while answering no would require further exnation.


    "Hehe, what do you think, Yan Chongzhi?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Haha!" Yan Chongzhiughed, dropping the subject. He had realized that Zhong Shan was difficult to pin down, his responses watertight.


    "Old Wine Man, is there really no danger ahead now?" Xianxian asked, looking at the Old Wine Man.


    "Didn''t you say you didn''t believe me?" the Old Wine Man retorted.


    "I don''t believe you, but I believe Zhong Shan. If he says there''s danger, I believe him!" Xianxian replied bluntly.


    The Old Wine Man: "..."


    "There''s no danger for now, but just two days ago, there was. Let''s hurry into the Great Ze Ghost Domain!" the Old Wine Man said.


    The group quickly flew towards the Great Ze Ghost Domain.


    It wasn''t long before they encountered several corpses along the way. The bodies were in horrific conditions, their skullspletely emptied of brains. Their clothing was still bright, indicating they had died recently.


    One or two corpses could be dismissed, but seventy or eighty? This was cause for concern.


    "Zhong Shan, you were right. Luckily, we didn''t rush in!" Xianxian said, looking at the gruesome scene with a sense of relief.


    The Old Wine Man was speechless. It was his warning, yet Zhong Shan received the credit?


    Mr. Corpsended and carefully examined the bodies, frowning deeply.


    "Your Majesty, there are no signs of struggle. These people were killed in an instant," Mr. Corpse reported.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The group continued flying towards the Great Ze Ghost Domain with a sense of foreboding. Soon, they reached its edge.


    The sky above the Great Ze Ghost Domain was shrouded in dark clouds, casting an eerie gloom below. The ground was mostly ck mud, asionally interrupted by barren, rocky hills.


    The ck mud was filled with countless ck shadows��humanoid ck ghosts struggling within the mire. From a distance, it seemed like an endless sea of ghostly hands and heads, desperately trying to climb out but unable to do so.


    The sky above the Great Ze Ghost Domain was also filled with many flying spirits, their transparent forms exuding a dark, ominous energy. They drifted aimlessly, moving without purpose.


    "This is...," Xianxian expressed her disgust.


    "Ghosts are not all the same. There are ck ghosts in the mud, spirits in the air, ghosts of the dead from the yang world, mountain ghosts born in forests, water ghosts from rivers. All are ghosts. Just as the world nurtures humans, it also nurtures ghosts. Most of these are low-level ghosts with little consciousness, born from the marsh and struggling in their misery," Mr. Corpse exined to Xianxian.


    "Oh!" Xianxian nodded in understanding. Yan Chongzhi looked at Mr. Corpse with surprise.


    "Are there more people or ghosts in the underworld?" Xianxian asked.


    "The yang world births yang spirits, and the underworld births yin spirits. Naturally, there are more ghosts than people. Additionally, there are different kinds of yin spirits, like skeletons," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Got it!" Xianxian nodded again.


    In the meantime, Zhong Shan and the others saw arge number of powerful beings rushing into the Great Ze Ghost Domain. There were humans, beasts, and some powerful ghost ns, including skeletons.


    "Let''s go!" Yan Chongzhi said.


    With that, Yan Chongzhi took the lead, flying forward.


    As people flew by in the distance, many ghosts entangled and attacked those entering the domain. However, around Yan Chongzhi, the ghosts avoided him, creating a peculiar sight.


    "Huh?" Xianxian looked around at the retreating ghosts in surprise, then nced at Yan Chongzhi in confusion.


    "The Emperor of the Da Ying Dynasty is likely a ghost emperor. The ghosts naturally sense his presence and avoid him," Mr. Corpse exined to Xianxian.


    Zhong Shan observed Yan Chongzhi from behind, a peculiar look in his eyes, followed by a slight smile.


    They flew deeper into the Great Ze Ghost Domain, encountering more and more powerful beings.


    At the center of the domain, in a mountainous area, arge number of strong individuals had already gathered.


    This vast area was where the golden sun had descended, only to disappear into the mud. Zhong Shan and his group found a secluded peak to stand on.


    Not far away, perhaps two old enemies met. Suddenly, they started fighting. Swords shed, and ghostly figures swirled. One of them was knocked into the mud.


    As soon as he fell, countless ck ghostly hands reached up, pulling him into the mud, never to return.


    "That''s terrifying!" Xianxian''s face contorted in fear as she clung tightly to Zhong Shan''s arm, refusing to let go.


    Some supreme experts, unafraid of the ck ghosts, plunged into the mud. The onlookers watched closely, but those experts never emerged again.


    "Something''s wrong. The Great Ze Ghost Domain shouldn''t be able to trap someone at the Nascent Soul stage. Why hasn''t anyonee back up?" the Old Wine Man frowned.


    "Have you been down there?" Xianxian asked.


    "Sort of," the Old Wine Man replied, frowning.


    One or two disappearing could be overlooked, but many people and ghosts going down withouting back up raised rm.


    Everyone grew more solemn. What was under the mud?


    At that moment, three men in white flew over from a distance. They were handsome and surrounded by a gentle white light. Their robes bore a beautifully embroidered "Tian" character. Wherever they went, silence followed, indicating their high status or great power.


    "Quick, hide me! Don''t let them see me!" the Old Wine Man suddenly said in a panic.

 Chapter 548: The Qilin

    <h4>Chapter 548: The Qilin</h4>


    "Quick, quick, block me! Don''t let them see me!" The Old Wine Man suddenly called out in a panic.


    But it was toote. The three men in white had already flown close, and one of them happened to turn his head and look in Zhong Shan''s direction.


    He nced at Zhong Shan''s group, his eyebrows furrowing slightly with a look of proud disdain before turning away and continuing to fly into the distance.


    "Ahhh~~~!" Xianxian suddenly screamed.


    Zhong Shan and the others were startled and followed Xianxian''s gaze, only to see the Old Wine Man.


    At this moment, the Old Wine Man was wearing an ugly ghost mask, making him look incredibly eerie. Xianxian had been frightened by the sudden appearance of the mask on his face. He had been fine just a moment ago, and then, turning around, his face suddenly became grotesquely altered. Who wouldn''t be scared?


    Everyone looked at the Old Wine Man in silence.


    No wonder the Old Wine Man had been so desperate for them to block him from view. The white-robed man hadn''t noticed anything because of the ugly ghost mask.


    "Old Wine Man, you''re in the Emperor Extreme Realm. Why are you afraid of them?" Xianxian asked, recovering from her fright and immediately berating him.


    The Old Wine Man: "..."


    "Those three aren''t even that powerful. The weakest is only at the Nascent Soul stage. Why are you so scared? And with that ugly ghost mask, it''s embarrassing!" Xianxian continued to scold.


    The Old Wine Man: "..."


    "Enough, Xianxian!" Zhong Shan quickly intervened.


    "Yan Chongzhi, who were those three? Are they from the Heavenly Dynasty or a Holy Land?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No, they belong to a family, the deepest-rooted family in the underworld," Yan Chongzhi replied.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan asked, intrigued.


    "They are from the ''Tian'' family, the most mysterious family in the underworld. They guard the ''Ten-Thousand-Fathom Hell'' and the ''Yellow Springs Road.'' Though these three individuals aren''t powerful, no one dares to offend the Tian family. The head of the Tian family stands equal to the Heavenly Emperor," Yan Chongzhi exined.


    "Tian? The Tian family?" Zhong Shan''s expression turned peculiar.


    Tian Ling''er also had the surname Tian. Could there be a connection?


    "Is that the Biyun Emperor?" Yan Chongzhi asked, frowning as he looked at a man in imperial robes on a distant peak.


    "It''s not just him. There''s more than one Emperor Extreme Realm expert here," the Old Wine Man observed, looking around.


    "What a grand gathering!" Yan Chongzhi remarked.


    As they continued to explore and wait, six days passed. During this time, countless powerful beings gathered, all seeking to uncover the secret of the golden sun, or perhaps waiting for someone else to reveal it.


    Suddenly, a green light burst forth from the sky above them. Under the green light, countless ghosts screamed and rushed into the mud below as if the light was harmful to them.


    As the green light shone upon the mud, the ck ghosts reacted simrly. The light caused ck smoke to rise from their bodies, and in their pain, they submerged into the mud.


    The entire expanse of the mud was soon devoid of any ghosts or spirits. The once bustling Great Ze Ghost Domain became eerily quiet.


    Zhong Shan looked around and saw that everything was bathed in green light.


    "What a grand formation! Who set up such a powerful array to cover the entire Great Ze Ghost Domain?" The Old Wine Man eximed in shock.


    "Are they trying to force out the ''Heavenly Descended Golden Sun''?" Xianxian wondered, frowning.


    This thought crossed the minds of all the onlookers as well. Everyone held their breath and watched intently. They had been waiting here for a long time, but no one had yet figured out the mystery behind the Heavenly Descended Golden Sun.


    Countless powerful beings had tested the waters, all to no avail. Now, with another attempting, everyone''s eyes were wide open.


    "There, look!" Xianxian pointed towards the source of the green light in the sky.


    A white-d figure slowly descended from the sky. This person had a slender build, purple nails, pale skin, and a red line running through the middle of his forehead, exuding an otherworldly aura.


    "The world''s greatest array master, Nangong Sheng?" Zhong Shan''s eyes widened as he looked at the descending figure.


    Nangong Sheng? From the yang world''s Divine Land, the master of the Underworld Heavenly Pce, a powerful figure who had already be an immortal. He hade to the underworld? Hadn''t he ascended to immortality? Why wasn''t he repelled by this small thousand world?


    As Zhong Shan watched in amazement, the proud-looking Nangong Sheng descended to a height of one hundred meters above the mud, gazing down at the calm surface.


    Bathed in the green light, Nangong Sheng appeared even more majestic, as if he were the lord of heaven and earth, exuding a powerful andmanding presence. Even the nearby emperors seemed diminished in his presence.


    A Heaven Extreme Realm expert was already a top-tier powerhouse in this world. An immortal was a legendary existence, and Nangong Sheng, who had absorbed the Hongmeng Purple Qi, was an immensely powerful immortal. Even without releasing his aura, his mere presence exerted a mysterious deterrent force.


    Who is he?


    Countless people stared at the formidable figure in the sky.


    A massive array covering the entire Great Ze Ghost Domain?


    What kind of formation was this? It was terrifying! The Great Ze Ghost Domain spanned at least the area of two dynasties. Could such a vast area really be arrayed?


    People were filled with astonishment. This was unprecedented; no one had ever heard of such an incredible array being set up.


    Did he set this up alone?


    "What a powerful immortal!" Mr. Corpse eximed in surprise.


    "Indeed," the Old Wine Man squinted and nodded.


    "Zhong Shan, do you know this person?" Yan Chongzhi asked quietly.


    Yan Chongzhi was astute enough to deduce much from Zhong Shan''s expression.


    Zhong Shan nced at Yan Chongzhi and nodded.


    "He was once the master of a Holy Land in the yang world. His name is Nangong Sheng, the greatest array master in the yang world," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "The greatest array master?" Yan Chongzhi murmured, frowning.


    Many around were specting about Nangong Sheng, but no one recognized him. Even in the yang world, many had heard of Nangong Sheng''s name, but few had seen him. Naturally, Nangong Sheng wouldn''t introduce himself, so people continued to guess.


    In the distance, the three members of the ''Tian'' family also frowned as they looked at Nangong Sheng. They exchanged nces, realizing they had discovered something significant that needed to be reported to their family.


    Nangong Sheng''s face was solemn as he stared at the mud below, his eyes filled with determination, intent on forcing out whatever was hidden beneath the mud.


    His white fingers pointed towards the mud below. A purple light shot from his fingertip into the mud.


    Instantly, countless patterns appeared on the surface of the mud, with numerous green lights forming an intricatework of array symbols, densely covering the mud.


    "What aplex formation. He truly lives up to his name as the greatest array master!" Yan Chongzhi eximed in admiration.


    "What''s this formation? I can''t make heads or tails of it," the Old Wine Man eximed, staring at the intricate patterns of the array below with a look of astonishment.


    For all his boasting about his extensive knowledge, the Old Wine Man couldn''t identify the origins of the formation before him.


    "My grandfather used to say that Nangong Sheng''s greatest talent isn''t just in using existing formations but in creating new ones. He has created countless formations, each immensely powerful," Xianxian said absentmindedly.


    After she spoke, Yan Chongzhi nced at Xianxian with a frown. Grandfather?


    Zhong Shan gave Xianxian a wry smile but did not me her for revealing too much.


    There was no visible change on the mud''s surface. Nangong Sheng''s eyes turned cold, and a faint smile of disdain appeared on his face. With a slight movement of his finger, the formation on the mud''s surface shed and disappeared, sinking into the mud.


    Nangong Sheng watched intently, while everyone else held their breath. They wanted to see what had descended from the Great Thousand World and were equally wary of Nangong Sheng''s immense power, none daring to challenge him.


    "Come out! Must I invite you?" Nangong Sheng said with a hint of gravity.


    Who was he talking to? Was there a person hidden in the mud? A peerless expert from the Great Thousand World?


    The surrounding experts quickly drew their weapons, fully guarding themselves. The Great Thousand World was a ce filled with legends of fearsome beings, and the people from there were reputed to be overwhelmingly powerful and malevolent.


    "What? Still noting out?" Nangong Sheng said coldly.


    "Roar~~~!"


    A deep, resonant sound emanated from beneath the mud, a sound powerful enough to shatter stone and imbued with a formidable deterrence. Countless experts on the perimeter were momentarily dazzled by the sound.


    "Get out!" Nangong Sheng shouted again, sending another beam of purple light into the mud.


    "Roar~~~!"


    The being beneath the mud seemed to be in pain, letting out an anguished howl. Suddenly, the mud in the center began to bubble and churn, the agitation growing more intense.


    Everyone grew tense.


    Suddenly, from the center, a red beam shot up, a column of red light piercing the sky. The powerful red light illuminated the heavens, and the surrounding spiritual energy became wildly turbulent. Multicolored clouds formed rapidly around the light column, spiraling quickly. The surrounding space seemed to shake under the impact of the red light, causing some lower-level cultivators to perish on the spot.


    The three members of the ''Tian'' family, sensing the danger, immediately shielded the weakest among them and fled towards the outskirts.


    A column of light causing such a celestial phenomenon��whaty beneath? The experts watched with keen interest.


    Finally, as the diameter of the red light column suddenly expanded, a dazzling golden light shot out in all directions.


    A pair of golden dragon horns emerged from the mud, radiating golden light in all directions. The horns looked imposing and majestic but resembled fleshy golden antlers more than dragon horns.


    "That... that''s a Qilin! The ny-sixth ranked divine beast in the Great Thousand World! Run!" Mr. Corpse suddenly shouted in rm.

 Chapter 549: The All-Powerful

    <h4>Chapter 549: The All-Powerful</h4>


    "This... this is a Qilin! Ranked ny-sixth among the divine beasts of the Great Thousand World! Run!" Mr. Corpse suddenly shouted in rm.


    A Qilin? Mr. Corpse was actually so terrified of a Qilin? The ny-sixth-ranked divine beast in the Great Thousand World?


    Seeing Mr. Corpse''s panic, Zhong Shan didn''t hesitate. He grabbed Xianxian and Mr. Corpse and quickly retreated.


    But it was toote.


    The Qilin, an incredibly powerful divine beast, had only revealed a pair of fleshy horns at first. Before Nangong Sheng could make any further moves, the Qilin shook its body.


    "Boom~~~!"


    It was like the nuclear explosions Zhong Shan had seen in his youth on television, but hundreds or even thousands of times stronger. Where the Qilin stood, billions of red lights burst forth, and mes surged like a thousand nuclear bombs exploding. A colossal wave of energy destroyed all the surrounding mountains and valleys. The violent mes set the entire Great Ze Ghost Domain aze, causing countless mud swamps to boil and churn.


    Zhong Shan and the others could only erect their strongest defenses. The Old Wine Man did his best, creating a shield that barely withstood the massive energy st. As for others, the weaker ones were obliterated by the shockwave, while those with higher cultivation were sent flying.


    The terrifying aura spread in all directions. The immense pressure made everyone feel like kneeling in worship.


    Heaven Extreme Realm? No, this was even stronger than a Heaven Extreme Realm aura. It was overwhelmingly powerful.


    Holding onto Xianxian, Zhong Shan looked ahead with difficulty and was shocked to see that the Qilin had merely shaken its body, causing the surrounding mud to be disced.


    A colossal Qilin, thirty meters tall, covered in zing red mes. It had the head of a dragon, antlers of a deer, eyes of a lion, back of a tiger, waist of a bear, scales of a snake, hooves of a horse, and tail of an ox. The Qilin embodied the essence of dominance and authority, with a majestic and intimidating presence.


    Anyone who looked at it felt their mind tremble.


    Even Zhong Shan felt an overwhelming sense of awe. The Qilin''s presence reminded him of the God Crow Daoist from the Longevity World��an incredibly powerful presence.


    This was a fire Qilin, with its majestic mes seemingly capable of incinerating everything. It exuded an unmatched aura of dominance. Strangely, the Qilin held a silver-gray scroll in its mouth, its eyes fixed on Nangong Sheng in the sky.


    Why was the Qilin holding a book? What was so precious about it that the Qilin wouldn''t let go?


    "Intruder! Surrender at once!" Nangong Sheng shouted angrily.


    The Qilin''s eyes widened, and its immense aura radiated outward, matching Nangong Sheng''s force. It ignored everyone else entirely.


    With a step, mes surged. The overwhelming fire burned eight hundred miles of mud. It was truly vast and boundless.


    The Old Wine Man quickly led Zhong Shan and the others further back. The Qilin was challenging an immortal?


    "Divine beast Qilin, born with ''immortal destiny,'' and once matured, its power is immense, at least on par with an immortal. It ranks ny-sixth among the divine beasts of the Great Thousand World!" Mr. Corpse quickly exined to Zhong Shan.


    "Immortal-level power? Just this?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    Zhong Shan noticed that many people and ghosts had only been pushed away by the violent mes, though the Qilin''s power was within their tolerance limits.


    "Because in this small thousand world, its power is restricted by the world''s rules!" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "What is that in the Qilin''s mouth?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I don''t know what it is, but it must be something extraordinary to be held in such high regard by the Qilin. The fire Qilin has a formidable body and immense strength. It wouldn''t hold just anything, not even an ordinary celestial artifact. That book must be a precious treasure!" Mr. Corpse quickly exined.


    "Nefarious beast, it so happens that I need a mount. Today, I shall tame you!" Nangong Sheng said with a rare smile on his face.


    A mount? He intended to make the Qilin his mount?


    Immortal?


    At this deration, everyone was stunned. An immortal? No wonder he was so powerful and capable of setting up such an incredible array!


    "Roar~~~!"


    The Qilin roared in fury, its eyes zing as it red at Nangong Sheng. Its body swayed, and a waterfall of purple mes surged towards him.


    Nangong Sheng smiled faintly, waving his hand to deflect the torrent of purple fire upwards. Instantly, the entire sky was engulfed in the searing purple mes, causing the very space to tremble. This wasn''t just the air quivering; it was the fabric of space itself being disturbed.


    Purple mes?


    Everyone shuddered at the sight. This beast was terrifying; its mes alone caused such destruction?


    Nangong Sheng disyed a wicked smile.


    Seeing that its usually effective purple mes couldn''t harm Nangong Sheng, the fire Qilin grew even more agitated.


    With a powerful stomp, an endless surge of purple mes erupted from the Qilin, transforming into a zing Qilin made of fire, charging at Nangong Sheng.


    Nangong Sheng pointed a finger, and the ming Qilin disintegrated back into mes, shooting skyward and causing another ripple in the distant space.


    The mes couldn''t touch Nangong Sheng at all.


    "Now I''m even more curious about what you''re holding in your mouth. You didn''t even use your ''Qilin Roar.'' Since you''re to be my mount, hand over that iron book!" Nangong Sheng demanded, reaching out.


    The fire Qilin panicked upon seeing Nangong Sheng''s hand reach out. Unable to harm Nangong Sheng, was it about to fall to him?


    With a desperate stomp, the fire Qilin transformed into a streak of light, attempting to escape.


    "Trying to run?" Nangong Sheng said with a mocking smile.


    Suddenly, the fire Qilin found itself immobilized in mid-air.


    A blue energy field enveloped the Qilin, trapping it.


    The fire Qilin''s eyes zed with fury, ring at Nangong Sheng while its body thrashed wildly. However, it only caused slight ripples in the surrounding space. It couldn''t break free.


    In the face of the world''s greatest array master, Nangong Sheng, how could it escape?


    The blue energy was a product of Nangong Sheng''s formation, making escape impossible for the Qilin.


    The fire Qilin''s eyes burned with hatred, as if promising to devour Nangong Sheng if given the chance in the Great Thousand World.


    Nangong Sheng''s grand formation had captured the divine beast!


    Chapter 549: Commanding the Heavens with One Hand


    From a distance, Mr. Corpse and the others looked on in astonishment.


    "The fire Qilin is so severely suppressed in this small thousand world?" Mr. Corpse said in surprise.


    Nangong Sheng slowly approached the fire Qilin, staring at the iron book it held firmly in its mouth.


    "What book could be so important that you won''t let go of it?" Nangong Sheng reached out to grab it.


    The fire Qilin thrashed wildly, unwilling to let anyone touch the book. But could it escape from the powerful Nangong Sheng? Despite being somewhat restricted by this small thousand world, Nangong Sheng was ultimately a native of this world, and thus, less hindered than the Qilin. This world was still his home turf.


    Just as everyone assumed the fire Qilin had no escape,


    Suddenly, a massive thunderp echoed from the distant sky.


    "Boom~~~!"


    The thunder was incredibly loud, causing everyone''s ears to ring.


    Next, the sky filled with swirling ck clouds, and lightning shed, striking repeatedly at a newly formed rift in the center. It was as if the rift was the greatest enemy of the heavens.


    "Hahahaha, you wretched beast, I''ve finally found you. Let''s see where you run now!" A loud, arrogantugh echoed from the rift.


    Theugh was filled with unmatched arrogance and confidence, shaking the surrounding space. An endless green light descended from the sky, making the world seem as if it had been dyed green.


    "A powerhouse from the Great Thousand World!" Mr. Corpse eximed in surprise.


    A powerhouse from the Great Thousand World, a being so powerful they could break through the barriers of the small thousand world? Even though the underworld''s barriers were much weaker than those of the yang world, they were still not something an ordinary person could breach!


    With that arrogantugh, almost everyone frantically fled.


    A true powerhouse��this was not a ce they could afford to stay.


    Nangong Sheng red angrily at the sky.


    From the rift, amidst the endless green light, a gigantic hand,rge enough to cover the sky and blot out the sun, reached through.


    As soon as the colossal hand appeared, everyone felt an overwhelming pressure, pinning them to the ground, leaving the sky empty.


    The hand''s target was the fire Qilin before Nangong Sheng.


    The previously invincible fire Qilin suddenly showed extreme panic in its eyes.


    As the hand reached down, it covered the entire sky. It was vast and boundless, embodying the phrase manding the heavens with one hand."


    Zhong Shan finally understood the true meaning of manding the heavens with one hand." This single hand could blot out the sky, filling the heavens with its immense presence. It was incredibly powerful and terrifying.


    Seeing the hand descending, would Nangong Sheng let this powerhouse from the Great Thousand World have their way?


    Nangong Sheng''s eyes burned with anger. With a flick of his sleeve, a massive energy array appeared above everyone''s heads.


    As soon as the energy array materialized, it began drawing an immense amount of energy from the surroundings at a monstrous speed. Spiritual energy from all directions converged rapidly.


    On the outskirts of the Great Ze Ghost Domain, in countless cities, all cultivators suddenly felt the spiritual energy around them rush away and then disappear.


    Energy, boundless and limitless energy, was being drawn by Nangong Sheng through his grand array.


    In an instant, the sky was filled with a thickyer of energy ice crystals.


    With one hand raised to the sky, Nangong Sheng sent a massive, sky-covering white hand to meet the descending green hand.


    The sky-covering white hand, formed from the energy ice crystals, shot upwards to sh with the green hand descending from the rift in the sky.

 Chapter 550: An Even Mightier Divine Beast

    <h4>Chapter 550: An Even Mightier Divine Beast</h4>


    Nangong Sheng utilized a grand array to draw in boundless energy from all directions, harnessing the power of heaven and earth to form a colossal hand that ascended to meet the descending green hand.


    It seemed that the heavens themselves despised such an intruder. As Nangong Sheng raised his hand towards the sky, countless bolts of lightning transformed into electrical energy, infusing his enormous hand, which then surged towards the green hand with tremendous force.


    The sheer power of the collision caused the space between the two gigantic hands to shatter into ck holes, absorbing everything around them.


    After a brief buildup, the two colossal hands shed with an immense impact.


    "Boom!"


    The sound of the collision was so deafening that it momentarily deafened everyone present. The explosive noise echoed across thend, reverberating through at least a thousandth of the underworld''s territory.


    High above the Great Ze Ghost Domain, the space shattered, revealing a massive ck hole. The surrounding mountains and valleys crumbled and copsed, with countless mortals and weak ghosts perishing from the shockwave.


    The sh of these two gigantic hands was unprecedented, wiping out billions of living and dead beings alike.


    Drawing on the advantage of being in his home world, Nangong Sheng used the power of his grand array to drive the green hand back, ultimately shoving it out of the world.


    "Spurt~!"


    Nangong Sheng, however, was injured by the recoil, coughing up a mouthful of blood.


    The green hand in the sky was also forced back out of this world, and the rift in the sky closed once more.


    The sheer power on disy left everyone in awe.


    This was the might of a powerhouse from the Great Thousand World. The scene felt surreal, but the sight of the many weaker beings who had died from the powerful auras reminded everyone of the harsh reality��they were mere ants before such overwhelming power.


    Nangong Sheng, an immortal, had been injured?


    Wiping the blood from his mouth, Nangong Sheng stared silently at the spot where the green hand had disappeared.


    At this moment, everyone noticed something astonishing��the fire Qilin had escaped.


    Taking advantage of the fight between Nangong Sheng and the powerhouse from the Great Thousand World, the fire Qilin had fled. Only residual mes remained where it had once been.


    The fire Qilin had escaped?


    Everyone''s eyes lit up at the thought. Then, their excitement quickly turned to disappointment. Many desired the Qilin as a mount or coveted the mysterious iron book it held, but what could they do? The fire Qilin was incredibly powerful and could easily take their lives. They had to temper their desires with caution.


    Nangong Sheng, too, realized the fire Qilin had fled. Yet he didn''t panic. After ring at the sky for a while longer and wiping the blood from his mouth, he vanished, presumably in pursuit of the fire Qilin.


    The mighty ones had departed, leaving behind a deste world and unforgettable memories.


    Some peerless experts, those above the Emperor Extreme Realm, dared to pursue the fire Qilin, driven by a slim hope. Others dared not chase it.


    "That was terrifying!" Xianxian said, her face pale with fear.


    Mr. Corpse, too, was filled with awe.


    To think that even in this small thousand world, they had encountered another divine beast, the ny-sixth ranked divine beast of the Great Thousand World. The reason for Mr. Corpse''s remark "again" was due to having previously seen another divine beast��the "Ancestor Divine Beast" that Zhong Shan had given to Nian Youyou.


    "Since it''s Nangong Sheng and the fire Qilin, there''s no point in staying. Farewell!" Zhong Shan said to Yan Chongzhi.


    They had traveled together to face unknown dangers, but now that the immediate threat was gone, there was no need to stay together.


    "Understood," Yan Chongzhi nodded.


    However, the Old Wine Man suddenly seemed to go into a fit, his face disying boundless terror and anxiety.


    "Doomed, we''re doomed..." The Old Wine Man shouted frantically.


    His sudden panic drew everyone''s attention.


    "What''s wrong, Senior?" Yan Chongzhi asked.


    "Doomed, we''re doomed!" The Old Wine Man closed his eyes as if trying to sense something.


    "What''s going on? Why are you acting crazy?" Xianxian shouted at him.


    "Danger, immense danger, even worse than the fire Qilin. No, no, we need to get to the sky!" The Old Wine Man screamed in terror.


    Although the others didn''t understand what was happening, they followed the Old Wine Man and flew up into the sky.


    All around, numerous strong individuals began to rise from the ground, seeking to escape this ce of danger.


    "What''s happening?" Yan Chongzhi asked, worried.


    "Nowhere to run, there''s nowhere to run!" The Old Wine Man shouted in a frenzied panic.


    Everyone looked at him, bewildered.


    Zhong Shan and Yan Chongzhi kept their eyes on the Old Wine Man, trusting his instincts.


    "It''s below!" The Old Wine Man suddenly pointed at the mud below.


    "There''s another terrifying presence down there!" he said in horror.


    "Boom!"


    A deep, muffled sound echoed from the sky.


    "Ouch!" Someone seemed to crash into something and tumbled down before regaining their bnce.


    "Nangong Sheng''s formation?" Xianxian shouted.


    Nangong Sheng''s formation hadn''t been removed, leaving an invisible barrier in the sky, blocking many people''s escape routes.


    Realizing the sky was not an option, people began to fly in all directions.


    Zhong Shan, with Xianxian and Mr. Corpse, flew in one direction, while Yan Chongzhi and the Old Wine Man went in another, trying to leave the area quickly.


    Suddenly, the Old Wine Man stopped.


    "Senior, what''s wrong?" Yan Chongzhi asked, surprised.


    The Old Wine Man looked towards the direction Zhong Shan had gone.


    "A glimmer of hope, a glimmer of hope?" The Old Wine Man''s face first showed delight, then puzzlement.


    "What glimmer of hope?" Yan Chongzhi asked.


    "We have a chance; it''s Zhong Shan. Let''s catch up with him!" the Old Wine Man said excitedly.


    He grabbed the confused Yan Chongzhi and hurriedly flew towards Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, is there really danger?" Xianxian asked, doubtfully.


    "If the Old Wine Man says there is, then it should be true. He didn''t seem to be faking it. Let''s move!" Zhong Shan decided.


    The three sped away. As they did, they noticed something strange: many of the fleeing strong individuals had begun fighting each other. Even those dressed simrly were fighting.


    Chaos had erupted among the fleeing crowd, driven by unknown forces.


    "Senior Brother, wake up, what''s wrong with you?" a person in the midst of battle shouted desperately.


    "Unfilial disciple, are you trying to betray your master?" came a shout from another fight in the distance.


    "Uncle Master, you can''t kill me, you can''t!"


    Chaos reigned as many of those trying to escape began to fight each other under mysterious and bizarre circumstances. It was as if some unseen force was turning allies against one another.


    Suddenly, a skeleton wielding arge sword charged towards Zhong Shan.


    "Bang!"


    The skeleton was sent flying by a zombie that appeared in front of Mr. Corpse.


    The surroundings became increasingly disorienting, with everyone in a state of extreme tension and confusion. People were fighting their own kin, and no one could understand why. The situation was eerily inexplicable, which was far more terrifying than the tangible threat posed by the fire Qilin earlier. Now, the enemy was unseen, manipting some to attack others. Who or what was behind this?


    Tension and fear escted. Why was this happening?


    Zhong Shan, Mr. Corpse, and Xianxian remained on high alert. Suddenly, a fist-sized ck shadow shot up from the mud towards Xianxian. Zhong Shan quickly pulled her aside, and the shadow missed, falling back into the mud.


    "What was that?" Xianxian frowned.


    Mr. Corpse''s eyes narrowed as he looked around, seeming to understand something but not yet certain.


    Just then, the Old Wine Man and Yan Chongzhi returned.


    "Old Wine Man, why are you back?" Xianxian asked.


    "The situation is dire. Let''s stick together. More people mean more security!" the Old Wine Man urged, ncing nervously at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nodded, not rejecting the offer. After all, the Old Wine Man had been helpful when the fire Qilin appeared.


    Meanwhile, in the distance, the mud began to churn violently, rising and falling as if a monstrous creature was about to emerge.


    Mud sttered in all directions, targeting the many powerful beings within the Great Ze Ghost Domain.


    "Watch out! Avoid them!" Mr. Corpse suddenly shouted.


    Everyone initially prepared to defend themselves, but at Mr. Corpse''s warning, they quickly evaded the mud stters. Mr. Corpse even withdrew the zombie he had summoned.


    "This is bad, we''re in big trouble this time!" Mr. Corpse said with a bitter expression.


    "Do you know what''s happening?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Looking at the churning mud, Mr. Corpse said, "Your Majesty, do you remember the corpses we encountered before entering the Great Ze Ghost Domain?"


    "Those corpses with holes in their heads, their brains extracted," Xianxian recalled.


    "Yes, at first I thought it was the work of some powerful individual or a secret technique. Now I see I waspletely wrong. It''s a divine beast from the Great Thousand World. The ''Heavenly Descended Golden Sun'' brought down two divine beasts: not only the fire Qilin but also this brain-eating beast," Mr. Corpse said, his face filled with concern.


    "A divine beast? Brain-eating beast?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrow rose.


    "Yes, ranked ny-fourth among the divine beasts of the Great Thousand World, the brain-eating beast," Mr. Corpse said anxiously.


    "Ny-fourth? That means it''s even stronger than the fire Qilin?" Xianxian eximed.


    "Indeed," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    "Let''s go!" Zhong Shan ordered without hesitation,manding a swift retreat.

 Chapter 551: No Escape

    <h4>Chapter 551: No Escape</h4>


    Under Zhong Shan''s leadership, the group frantically dashed towards the edge of the Great Ze Ghost Domain. Zhong Shan''s sharp instincts were evident. As soon as he heard Mr. Corpse mention that the brain-eating beast ranked higher than the fire Qilin on the Great Thousand World''s divine beast list, he immediately grasped the terrifying nature of this beast.


    Watching the distant mud constantly churn, everyone knew that the brain-eating beast was about to emerge. Zhong Shan didn''t want to see what kind of monstrous entity it was; he didn''t have the time or desire to find out.


    Previously, Nangong Sheng had kept things in check. But now, with Nangong Sheng, the fire Qilin, and the powerhouse from the Great Thousand World gone, the brain-eating beast, which was clearly more intelligent and patient than the fire Qilin, dared to reveal itself.


    "What abilities does the brain-eating beast have?" Zhong Shan asked while flying.


    "Your Majesty, those disoriented and aggressive experts we encountered on our way here were all controlled by the brain-eating beast. The mud stters from earlier burrow into people''s skin and quickly make their way to the brain, consuming their spirit and taking control. Even zombies, I dare not deploy, fearing they might be controlled by it," Mr. Corpse exined.


    Hearing Mr. Corpse''s exnation, Xianxian shivered involuntarily. It was terrifying and disgusting.


    As they fled, the brain-eating beast finally revealed itself from the mud.


    A massive ball of mud floated to the surface, and everyone saw a gigantic creature resembling an octopus, but without tentacles. Its body was ck, with streams of sludge continuously oozing off it. Despite the constant flow, the creature, standing ten meters tall, seemed to be made entirely of endless sludge.


    Two ghostly blue eyes emitted a sinister and soul-chilling light.


    Countless mud droplets shot out from its body in all directions. More mud droplets also erupted from the surrounding swamps, targeting numerous individuals.


    Those who were unprepared were instantly infiltrated by the mud droplets. As soon as the mud entered their skin, they disyed expressions of agony. After a moment of torment, their faces changed, and they began to attack their kin, now controlled by the brain-eating beast.


    In a terrifying scene, countless strong individuals were taken over in an instant, turning on each other under the beast''s control.


    "We can''t escape. Nangong Sheng''s array has sealed off the entire Great Ze Ghost Domain. There''s no way out," the Old Wine Man suddenly shouted.


    The Old Wine Man had sensed the powerful array in the distance.


    "Sealed?" Mr. Corpse was stunned.


    Xianxian''s face showed panic, and she clung tightly to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath. With his shadow body, he could go anywhere, through any array. But what about Xianxian and Mr. Corpse? He couldn''t leave them behind.


    "Kill that monster!"


    Among the experts, some quickly figured out the source of the problem��it was the creature in the mud.


    With a loud shout, a golden skeleton rushed forward. This golden skeleton was an Emperor Extreme Realm expert.


    Holding a pitch-ckrge knife, the golden skeleton swung it fiercely at the brain-eating beast.


    The powerful de unleashed a massive waterfall-like de energy.


    "Boom!"


    The strike from the Emperor Extreme Realm expert was formidable. But Zhong Shan knew it would be far from enough to defeat the brain-eating beast. Ranked higher than the Qilin, this brain-eating beast was sure to be incredibly strong.


    The de energy collided with the brain-eating beast, creating a huge explosion. The beast''s form trembled, and ayer of sludge was blown away, only to reveal an even more grotesque inneryer. The creature seemed almost unaffected by the attack, continuing to emit mud droplets and controlling more beings around it.


    "We must find a way out of this trap," Zhong Shan said, his mind racing.


    The group realized they were in dire straits, facing a foe far beyond their current strength. They needed a strategy to survive and escape this nightmare.


    But reality always finds a way to surprise.


    The golden skeleton''s sh actually had an effect. To Zhong Shan and the others'' astonishment, the de cut the brain-eating beast in two. The powerful strike split the creature cleanly in half, causing its halves to fall apart.


    Everyone stared in shock.


    Was the brain-eating beast dead?


    "That skeleton is doomed," Mr. Corpse said with a bitter smile.


    Just as the golden skeleton felt a surge of excitement, something eerie happened. From the two halves of the brain-eating beast, arge amount of sludge began to pour out. The split halves began to regenerate within the sludge, gradually forming into two identical brain-eating beasts.


    Seeing this, everyone''s scalp tingled with fear.


    Even the golden skeleton was incredulous. But within a moment of disbelief, the golden skeleton''s body suddenly convulsed. It then straightened and turned, ring menacingly at those around it.


    Everyone had been watching the golden skeleton closely, hoping for salvation. Seeing it split the brain-eating beast, they felt a glimmer of hope. But witnessing the beast''s duplication, their hopes were shattered.


    "Not good, the golden skeleton has been controlled by the brain-eating beast!" Xianxian shouted.


    Her exmation caused a stir. Unkible? Able to split? What kind of monstrosity was this?


    "The brain-eating beast doesn''t have strong defenses, but it''s unkible. In the Great Thousand World, it''s synonymous with disaster. Your Majesty, we must break out of the array. Otherwise, everyone will have their brains drained and souls destroyed by this beast," Mr. Corpse said, his face filled with worry.


    The brain-eating beast, directing a horde of controlled beings, attacked all around. It was a terrifying entity, more dreadful than Mr. Corpse''s zombie army. The zombie army could only attack the living and became weaker when turned into zombies, but the brain-eating beast could control both the living and the dead without reducing their strength.


    In the meantime, the two brain-eating beasts merged back into one massive sludge creature.


    Several other experts tried to attack the brain-eating beast, but their efforts were futile. Its form, made of sludge, was impervious to harm. How could you injure something that was already at its lowest form of existence? It was invulnerable.


    Meanwhile, the attackers were all controlled by the brain-eating beast.


    Zhong Shan led everyone in a high-speed flight.


    Reaching the edge of the array at high altitude, Zhong Shan easily passed through. However, Xianxian and the others couldn''t follow, even when the Old Wine Man attacked with all his might. The barrier was unbreakable.


    A formation set by an immortal was not something mortals could breach.


    "Help us!"


    "Save me!"


    "Stay away from me!"


    Cries of terror and pleas for help echoed from all directions, but against the brain-eating beast, all were futile. The brain-eating beast was a force even the fire Qilin paled against.


    "Weren''t there many Emperor Extreme Realm experts who chased the fire Qilin out? Why can''t we leave?" Xianxian asked anxiously.


    "That was because the fire Qilin broke through the array. Those Emperor Extreme Realm experts left through the breach. But now, the breach is gone. This formation can repair itself!" the Old Wine Man said, his face full of dejection.


    The Old Wine Man looked towards Zhong Shan for guidance. Below, a person under control was killed on the spot, and as the body fell, its head facing upwards, a small brain-eating beast emerged from a hole in the skull. The creature was identical to therger one but much smaller, having consumed all the brain matter.


    The small brain-eating beast quickly made its way to therger one, merging into its body.


    On the battlefield, it was a massacre. Those not controlled were being killed, and from each fallen body, a small brain-eating beast would emerge, joining the main creature.


    This was a disaster, an unprecedented catastrophe.


    In no time, countless strong individuals had died, leaving only a hundred or so survivors. These survivors, like Zhong Shan, were huddled at the edges of the Great Ze Ghost Domain, near the edge of Nangong Sheng''s formation, trembling with fear.


    While these experts had managed to evade death momentarily, the longer they waited, the more perilous their situation became. With thousands of fallen warriors already dead, the brain-eating beast now set its sights on the remaining survivors.


    The beast looked upwards, seeing the hundred survivors with apparent dissatisfaction. It shook its form, causing the entire mud of the Great Ze Ghost Domain to tremble. From the mud, an endless number of brain-eating beasts began to emerge, their ghostly eyes shining eerily.


    The sight was terrifying, with countless brain-eating beasts appearing from the mud, creating a scene of unimaginable horror.


    "This brain-eating beast is too terrifying. Zhong Shan, aren''t you going to do something? Hurry!" The Old Wine Man screamed in panic.


    The Old Wine Man knew that only by staying with Zhong Shan did they have a sliver of hope. Now, with the brain-eating beasts closing in, they needed Zhong Shan to act fast.


    Zhong Shan nced at the Old Wine Man and made up his mind.


    With a flick of his finger, Zhong Shan''s body suddenly emitted an endless array of ck shadows, shooting rapidly in all directions like a torrential downpour.


    In an instant, countless talisman shadows covered the mud and the numerous brain-eating beasts.


    "Boom!"


    Almost all the brain-eating beasts had a talisman shadow attached to them, causing them to freeze in ce. The once turbulent and fear-inducing Great Ze Ghost Domain suddenly seemed to halt.


    Seeing this, the survivors'' eyes lit up with hope. Had the beasts been sealed?


    "Wei Qi?" The Old Wine Man eximed in surprise.


    Yan Chongzhi was also shocked as he looked at Zhong Shan. Wei Qi was on the same level as celestial artifacts, and Zhong Shan had one?


    The hundred or so strong individuals, seeing the brain-eating beasts immobilized, rushed towards Zhong Shan in joy.


    However, just as they moved, one of the brain-eating beasts broke free from the talisman shadow. As it did, the others followed suit, all breaking free from the talisman shadows and turning their angry gazes towards Zhong Shan.


    "It''s hopeless. In the Great Thousand World, when faced with such divine beasts, the only option is to flee. But now, there''s nowhere to run!" Mr. Corpse said with a look of urgency, then a glint of determination appeared in his eyes, as if he had made a critical decision.

 Chapter 552: The Reincarnation Passage

    <h4>Chapter 552: The Reincarnation Passage</h4>


    A dense swarm of brain-eating beasts presented an extremely horrifying scene. The usually reliable ink jade talismans proved utterly ineffective in this moment.


    The many experts who had rushed towards Zhong Shan for refuge all halted in their tracks, realizing Zhong Shan couldn''t stop the brain-eating beasts. All the beasts'' hostile gazes focused on Zhong Shan. Everyone felt a chill run down their spines, abandoning any thought of seeking refuge with Zhong Shan and instead silently mourning for him.


    "Screech!"


    One brain-eating beast suddenly let out a shrill cry, and then countless others joined in, creating an ear-splitting cacophony.


    "Screech! Screech! Screech!"


    The sludge-covered beasts roared at Zhong Shan, creating an intensely eerie and terrifying atmosphere.


    At this moment, the eyes of all the brain-eating beasts began to glow.


    "Boom!"


    The swarm of brain-eating beasts suddenly surged into the sky, rushing madly towards Zhong Shan.


    An overwhelming pressure descended, instilling panic in everyone''s hearts. The brain-eating beast was indeed more powerful than the fire Qilin. Although it didn''t possess the same physical robustness, no one could figure out how to defeat it.


    "Boom!"


    Many of the brain-eating beasts were sted back into the mud below. However, all the remaining experts had been annihted,pletely and utterly destroyed��minds erased, brains consumed.


    Those who had hoped to avoid the brain-eating beasts ended up as their feast, all falling to their horrific demise.


    As for Zhong Shan, the massive number of brain-eating beasts were repelled.


    Yan Chongzhi and the others had not made a move; the brain-eating beasts were too terrifying, capable of infiltrating one''s body with just a touch.


    It was Zhong Shan who had repelled the brain-eating beasts with the ink jade talisman.


    Zhong Shan had taken out the ink jade talisman, positioning it in front of everyone. It emitted a malevolent ck light, driving all the brain-eating beasts back. The ink jade talisman, even among Wei Qi artifacts, was of the highest quality.


    Zhong Shan, Mr. Corpse, Xianxian, the Old Wine Man, and Yan Chongzhi were all protected by the ck light from the ink jade talisman.


    The Old Wine Man looked at Zhong Shan in amazement, eyeing the ink jade talisman with astonishment.


    "Your Majesty, please hold them off a bit longer while I break through Nangong Sheng''s formation," Mr. Corpse said through gritted teeth.


    With that, Mr. Corpse took out a blood-red heart, which throbbed like a living thing. This was the precious treasure Mr. Corpse had used before.


    Yan Chongzhi and the Old Wine Man, who had been closely watching Zhong Shan, turned their attention to Mr. Corpse as soon as the heart was revealed. A wave of malevolent energy emanated from the heart, making them turn to stare wide-eyed at Mr. Corpse.


    Xianxian had once sacrificed a ninth-grade magical treasure in a fight, Zhong Shan had just pulled out a powerful Wei Qi artifact, and now Mr. Corpse was using something that seemed no less potent than the ink jade talisman. What kind of people were these, carrying so many powerful treasures? The more they looked at Zhong Shan and his group, the more mysterious they appeared. Zhong Shan''s Dazhen Dynasty was like an enigma, filled with endless intrigue.


    Zhong Shan saw Mr. Corpse''s determined expression and grabbed his arm.


    "Mr. Corpse, are you nning to destroy that treasure to break the formation?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    Mr. Corpse hesitated for a moment, looking at Zhong Shan, then nodded. "Yes, Your Majesty. It''s the only way to break Nangong Sheng''s formation and ensure our escape."


    Zhong Shan pondered for a moment, his eyes reflecting his internal struggle. This decision would not only impact their immediate survival but also the future of their group and the Dazhen Dynasty. He knew that using Mr. Corpse''s precious treasure would be a significant loss, but if it meant saving their lives, it might be worth the sacrifice.


    "Very well, Mr. Corpse. Do it. Break the formation," Zhong Shan finally said, his voice firm.


    "Yes!" Mr. Corpse replied, his eyes showing a hint of reluctance. However, to escape, he ultimately chose to give up.


    "Is it very important to you?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Mr. Corpse.


    "Yes, it''s very important. But no matter how important, you need to stay alive to use it," Mr. Corpse replied with a bitter smile.


    "Put it away," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    "Huh?" Mr. Corpse looked at Zhong Shan in surprise. Did the Emperor have another n?


    "Yes!" Mr. Corpse immediately nodded.


    Yan Chongzhi and the Old Wine Man showed a hint of surprise.


    Zhong Shan turned to look at the Old Wine Man and Yan Chongzhi.


    "Do you wish to escape using my methods?" Zhong Shan asked, eyeing the two.


    Knowing the Old Wine Man''s abilities, Zhong Shan could easily guess their intentions.


    The Old Wine Man gave a somewhat embarrassed smile, while Yan Chongzhi nodded and said, "Yes, please forgive us for not informing you."


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Seeing that Zhong Shan wasn''t ming them, the Old Wine Man''s eyes lit up.


    "I can save you too, but I don''t want you to see things you shouldn''t," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Huh?" The Old Wine Man was slightly stunned.


    "Thank you!" Yan Chongzhi nodded, bowing to Zhong Shan.


    The Old Wine Man didn''t understand, but Yan Chongzhi did. Zhong Shan was willing to save them but needed them unconscious to keep certain secrets.


    "Do you want to do it yourself, or should we handle it?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Yan Chongzhi.


    The Old Wine Man looked puzzled.


    "You handle it, please," Yan Chongzhi said to Zhong Shan.


    "Mr. Corpse, put them to sleep," Zhong Shan ordered.


    Hearing this, the Old Wine Man finally understood. Knocking them out? The Old Wine Man felt strange about it but didn''t object.


    Yan Chongzhi understood Zhong Shan''s intention and allowed him to take the lead, ensuring Zhong Shan''s trust.


    The brain-eating beasts were too terrifying. Without Zhong Shan, they would surely die. All their hope nowy with Zhong Shan.


    Yan Chongzhi and the Old Wine Man did not resist as Mr. Corpse cast a spell, releasing ck smoke that they inhaled. After a few more incantations, they were unconscious.


    Mr. Corpse, feeling both grateful and hopeful, wondered if Zhong Shan really had a solution.


    Seeing Mr. Corpse''s nod, Zhong Shan turned to the swarming brain-eating beasts. The creatures relentlessly attacked the ck light shield from the ink jade talisman, which was starting to wane.


    Zhong Shan knew he had to act quickly.


    He surveyed the brain-eating beasts, his eyes growing cold.


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted and then transformed into a strange green color.


    <strong>Reincarnation Eyes!</strong>


    With the appearance of the Reincarnation Eyes, the endless brain-eating beasts suddenly stopped, falling back into the mud. The beasts, now wary, looked at Zhong Shan with a mix of surprise and anger.


    "Die!" Zhong Shan roared.


    The brain-eating beasts shuddered, emitting shrill cries of fear.


    "Shriek!"


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Under the terrifying power of the Reincarnation Eyes, countless brain-eating beasts exploded, turning into clouds of muddy mist and scattering.


    Mr. Corpse felt a wave of fear in his heart. The Emperor''s power was terrifying. What kind of ability was this? Last time against the Skeleton King, it was the same. What kind of power was this that even the brain-eating beasts couldn''t resist?


    As Zhong Shan nced around, over the course of half an hour, nearly all the brain-eating beasts had exploded into mist. The power of the Reincarnation Eyes was truly formidable, even at this early stage. How much more powerful would they be in the future?


    Yet, one brain-eating beast remained, growingrger andrger. It seemed as if all the other brain-eating beasts were merely its avatars, with their energy returning to this main body as they were destroyed.


    The main body of the brain-eating beast, now a towering figure of a hundred meters, red at Zhong Shan with eyes full of both fear and intense hatred.


    "This is the main body of the brain-eating beast. If it dies, all the brain-eating beasts will die. If it survives, they can all regenerate," Mr. Corpse quickly exined.


    However, the Reincarnation Eyes had already reached their limit. Even if Zhong Shan tried to push further, he couldn''t do anything more to this main beast.


    The brain-eating beast let out an enraged roar.


    "Screech!"


    The brain-eating beast, ranked ny-fourth among the divine beasts of the Great Thousand World, was truly formidable. Even the power of the Reincarnation Eyes was met with fierce resistance.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed in anger. His pupils began to spin rapidly.


    "Boom!"


    The ground below erupted with a massive explosion, leaving Mr. Corpse speechless in shock. The surrounding hundred miles of mud turned into a ck hole, simr to those formed by spatial rifts��a phenomenon typically caused by extremely powerful celestial beings.


    The ck hole didn''t shrink. Instead, it transformed into a bizarre abyss, a terrifying green passage.


    Inside the green passage,yers of eerie energy spiraled, containing vast and boundless power. The passage was filled with countless green gales, appearing endlessly malevolent.


    Deeper within, colorful energy swirled, obscuring the true nature of its depths.


    Xianxian and Mr. Corpse, with just one nce, were left dazed and bewildered, their minds captivated by the energy emanating from the green passage below.


    Zhong Shan''s face was extremely pale, his eyes bloodshot, clearly exhausted from exerting this technique.


    The brain-eating beast, initially ascending into the air, suddenly felt an extreme sense of danger as the mud below transformed. Turning to look, it was filled with immense terror.


    "Yin and Yang Reversal, Reincarnation Extermination!" Zhong Shan shouted coldly.


    With Zhong Shan''smand, the green passage''s interior began to spin with powerful green gales, creating a tremendous suction force that pulled everything toward the passage.


    It was as if the very world was copsing into this terrifying passage. Inside the Great Ze Ghost Domain, the ground shattered, the sky fractured, and the powerful formation set by Nangong Sheng trembled as if on the verge of copse.


    The overwhelming suction force was beyond belief. Perhaps only an immortal could wield such world-shaking power.


    Seeing the green passage''s power, Mr. Corpse felt both awe and relief. This was Zhong Shan''s true strength, a power that could confront even the most fearsome of divine beasts. The Reincarnation Passage created a force that seemed capable of consuming everything, pulling the brain-eating beast and its minions into its abyssal depths.


    Zhong Shan, despite his exhaustion, stood firm, his determination unyielding. This was their chance, their only hope of survival. They had to escape while the passage held the brain-eating beast at bay.

 Chapter 553: The Might of Reincarnation

    <h4>Chapter 553: The Might of Reincarnation</h4>


    The green passageway emitted an incredibly terrifying suction force, like a world-ending mouth devouring everything from the outside world. It swallowed the entire Ghost Realm of the Great Marsh, engulfed the immortal formation of Nangong Sheng, and even consumed the Brain-Eating Beast that had leapt up.


    "Screeeeeeeeeeeeeeech!"


    The Brain-Eating Beast let out a miserable scream. Even as a divine beast, a top-tier one ranked ny-fourth in the grand universe, it stood no chance against the suction force of this passageway.


    The beast, upon catching a glimpse of the passage below, shrieked in terror. The horrifying suction was directly aimed at the Brain-Eating Beast. Among all within Nangong Sheng''s grand formation, the beast bore the brunt of the suction force.


    Sensing the terror of the green passageway below, the Brain-Eating Beast frantically struggled, its mud-like body writhing madly. But what was this green passageway? It was a reincarnation passageway opened by Zhong Shan using his Reincarnation Eyes.


    Due to hisck of strength, Zhong Shan could only open a small reincarnation passageway despite his utmost effort. Yet, even this small passage was sufficient.


    The Brain-Eating Beast, havinge to this small world, was greatly weakened by the world''s rules. Caught off guard by Zhong Shan and coincidentally leaping into the air, it found itself directly above the reincarnation passageway. Misfortune had truly befallen it.


    The beast struggled desperately, but the mud on its body continued to be sucked into the passageway. With every bit of mud lost, the beast''s strength dwindled further. As it struggled, the bnce tipped, and the beast could no longer resist the suction force.


    "Screeeeeeeeeeeeeeech!"


    The Brain-Eating Beast screamed frantically but eventually sumbed to the powerful reincarnation passageway. After losing most of its muddy body, it was finally sucked in with a ''whoosh.''


    "Boom!"


    At the same time, perhaps due to the overwhelming suction force or the disruption of the world''s rules by the reincarnation passageway, Nangong Sheng''s immortal formation exploded.


    What immense power!


    The reincarnation passageway below suddenly contracted and vanished, leaving only an infinitely deep pit.


    "What a tenacious Brain-Eating Beast, still not dead?" Zhong Shan eximed in shock.


    In that moment, Mr. Corpse and Xianxian suddenly awoke. Mr. Corpse, drenched in cold sweat, shivered as he snapped out of his daze. What just happened?


    Earlier, the moment he felt the terrifying suction from below, he had looked down and glimpsed a green light, which rendered him unconscious.


    What was that? So terrifying? Was it His Majesty''s doing?


    As these thoughts raced through his mind, Mr. Corpse looked at Zhong Shan with cold sweat streaming down his body.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan''s body was somewhat hunched, and before him floated a ckish-purple soul.


    "Brain-Eating Beast?"


    "Your Majesty, did you destroy its body?" Mr. Corpse eximed.


    "Indeed, but its soul is too powerful for me to destroy, even with..."


    Zhong Shan wanted to say that even the small reincarnation passageway he had conjured could not destroy it. However, he decided against mentioning it.


    "A divine beast, the Brain-Eating Beast? Your Majesty, the soul of a Brain-Eating Beast is very special. Its essence relies on this soul. Now, without a body, it''s powerless. But if released and it sinks into the earth, it will soon regain its body. As long as it falls into the mud, it can be reborn from the muck. Your Majesty, I happen to have a purification bottle that can contain it!" Mr. Corpse quickly suggested.


    He immediately took out a red ss bottle.


    The soul of the Brain-Eating Beast wriggled continuously, but with Zhong Shan''s Reincarnation Eyes activated, there was no escape. Mr. Corpse quickly captured the beast''s soul in his ''purification bottle.'' Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted and then returned to normal as he closed and reopened his eyes.


    Zhong Shan staggered, and Xianxian caught him just in time.


    "Zhong Shan, are you alright?" Xianxian asked with concern.


    "I''m a bit exhausted, but it''s nothing serious. We can''t stay here any longer. We must leave quickly!" Zhong Shan replied, retrieving the ck jade talisman.


    Xianxian summoned a white cloud, which carried the group swiftly away. After they left, people began to arrive from all directions to witness the aftermath. Upon seeing the once vast Ghost Realm of the Great Marsh now reduced to a barren wastnd, they were stunned. The marsh was gone, reced by a massive pit tens of thousands of feet deep. The destruction was unimaginable��cracked earth, obliterated mountains and rivers. What had happened here? Who could have done this?


    Zhong Shan''s group flew rapidly until they reached a secluded valley.


    "Let''s leave them here and set up a formation," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Alright."


    Xianxian ced the old drunkard and Yan Chongzhi in a hidden part of the valley and set up a formation before the group continued their journey. After two days of travel, they stopped in a serene valley, where Zhong Shan closed his eyes and fell asleep, exhausted from opening the reincarnation passageway.


    Mr. Corpse and Xianxian kept watch. Xianxian focused entirely on protecting Zhong Shan, while Mr. Corpse sat by a nearby stream, washing his hands and examining the ''purification bottle.''


    Gazing at the struggling Brain-Eating Beast inside, Mr. Corpse couldn''t help but marvel.


    A Brain-Eating Beast? How did His Majesty manage this? Even in this small world, where even the Heavenly Extreme Realm would struggle, His Majesty had destroyed its body and imprisoned its soul. Incredible!


    And what was that eye technique His Majesty used? It was so powerful. In the grand universe, every bloodline with eye techniques came from immensely powerful families. Which family did His Majesty''s bloodlinee from?


    Filled with awe, Mr. Corpse looked toward a distant pce. Insidey Zhong Shan, with Xianxian guarding him.


    "It seems I''ve truly found what I was looking for. Your Majesty, I will devote myself entirely to assisting you. I hope you won''t disappoint me. My vengeance and hope rest upon you," Mr. Corpse murmured.


    Three dayster, in another valley, the old drunkard suddenly awoke with a start. Sitting up, he immediately surveyed his surroundings, as Yan Chongzhi gradually regained consciousness beside him.


    "Are we saved?" the old drunkard asked, slightly stunned.


    Yan Chongzhi looked around and then at the old drunkard.


    "Senior, have Zhong Shan and the others left?" Yan Chongzhi asked.


    "I just woke up myself," the old drunkard replied, frowning.


    They both stood up and examined their surroundings.


    "Senior, do you know what happened back there?" Yan Chongzhi pressed.


    The old drunkard shook his head.


    "Let''s go back and take a look," Yan Chongzhi suggested.


    "Alright."


    They flew out of the valley, asked for directions, and headed straight for the Ghost Realm of the Great Marsh.


    When Yan Chongzhi and the old drunkard arrived at the Ghost Realm of the Great Marsh, they found countless powerful individuals gathered outside, all staring in shock at the drastically alteredndscape.


    The once vast and muddy marsnd was nowpletely dry, the earth cracked and split. In the center, a terrifying pit tens of thousands of feet deep gaped open, with Nangong Sheng''s grand formation nowhere to be seen.


    "What do you make of this?" the old drunkard asked Yan Chongzhi.


    "I can''t fathom Zhong Shan," Yan Chongzhi replied, taking a deep breath.


    "Let''s go back for now," the old drunkard suggested.


    "Agreed," Yan Chongzhi nodded.


    Zhong Shan slept for a month, the immense exertion having taken a toll on him. When he finally opened his eyes, he still felt a lingering fatigue.


    "Zhong Shan, you''re awake!" Xianxian eximed joyfully.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded, offering her a slight smile.


    "Your Majesty, the Great Marsh Ghost Realm has garnered worldwide attention. Many are seeking witnesses. Won''t releasing Yan Chongzhi and the old drunkard risk exposing our secrets?" Mr. Corpse asked, concerned.


    "Don''t worry. Once we return, they will be members of our Dazhen Dynasty," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Uh," Mr. Corpse was slightly taken aback.


    "What about the Brain-Eating Beast?" Zhong Shan asked, turning to Mr. Corpse.


    Mr. Corpse immediately produced the purification bottle.


    "Your Majesty, the Brain-Eating Beast''s soul needs to be burned with Earth Yang energy for forty-nine days to bepletely destroyed," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Burn? Why burn?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    Mr. Corpse was also taken aback.


    "Your Majesty, if the Brain-Eating Beast touches the ground, it can regenerate its muddy body. We must prevent it from doing so, or it will be a disaster for our Dazhen Dynasty," Mr. Corpse exined further.


    Indeed, considering the Brain-Eating Beast''s hatred for Zhong Shan, it wouldn''t let matters rest if it regenerated.


    "I have a use for it," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood," Mr. Corpse nodded, refraining from further questions.


    "Let''s return to the dynasty," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!"


    With that, Zhong Shan led the group back to the Dazhen Dynasty, traveling swiftly.


    In the months they had been away, significant changes had urred. Guo Feng of the Dayan Dynasty, upon learning of Zhong Shan and Yan Chongzhi''s departure,unched a war. With the three dynasties previously in a stalemate, the absence of Zhong Shan tipped the bnce, making the Dazhen Dynasty the dominant force. Guo Feng saw this as a golden opportunity.


    Which dynasty should he attack? The Dazhen Dynasty or the Daying Dynasty?


    With both emperors absent, Guo Feng believed that attacking one would make the other hesitate. Deciding that the Dazhen Dynasty was too formidable, he chose to attack the Daying Dynasty, hoping to bnce the power by conquering it.


    However, Zhong Shan and Yan Chongzhi were no fools. They had anticipated this and prepared ordingly. Guo Feng''s army attacked the Daying Dynasty, but to no avail. Meanwhile, Lin Xiao''s forces struck at Guo Feng''s rear cities.


    "How is this possible? Without their emperor, how could Lin Xiao dare to mobilize troops?" Guo Feng cried out in disbelief.


    Lin Xiao''s audacity stemmed from the meticulous preparations Zhong Shan had made before his departure. Appointing Lin Xiao as Grand General granted him authority over the Dazhen military, enabling him to seize this heaven-sent opportunity to strike.

 Chapter 554: The Changing Banners on the City WallsThe Forbidden Lands Beyond the Underworld

    <h4>Chapter 554: The Changing Banners on the City WallsThe Forbidden Lands Beyond the Underworld</h4>


    Once the war began, it bypassed the warm-up phase and directly entered an intense state. Following the strategy set by Zhong Shan before his departure, the military genius Lin Xiao started nning a breathtakingyout. With every soldier and officer positioned perfectly, they awaited Guo Feng''s move. As soon as Guo Fengunched his attack, Lin Xiao''s orders were delivered like a tidal wave, directing all forces into a full-scale assault.


    Guo Feng was caughtpletely off guard!


    While Guo Feng led his troops to attack the Daying Dynasty, the defenses of the Dayan Dynasty were left vulnerable. Seizing this opportunity, Lin Xiao''s army surged forward like a mighty river,unching ferocious attacks on various cities. Surrounding and attacking the cities to intercept Guo Feng''s reinforcements, Lin Xiao''s strategies in dozens of battles demonstrated the pinnacle of military prowess, each engagement bing a ssic example.


    Two and a half monthster, Lin Xiao''s forces reached the capital of the Dayan Dynasty.


    Guo Feng stood atop the city walls, looking at the army beneath him. A gust of wind lifted a lock of his white hair, making him appear significantly aged. The once-thriving Dayan Dynasty was now in ruins, its fate sealed in such a short time.


    The imperial fortune above the city was now so faint it was nearly invisible. Could such a vast dynasty really copse so quickly?


    In the distance, Lin Xiao rode a demonic mare, a warhorse native to the underworld. This time, Lin Xiao had not deployed the Blood Wolf, as it was once the national beast of the Dayan Dynasty. Understanding theplex implications, Lin Xiao chose to leave it out, but even without the Blood Wolf, he was confident of victory. The evidence was clear before him��the Dayan Dynasty had only itsst city standing.


    Typically, the final battle would be between kings.


    "Lin Xiao, I underestimated you. I didn''t expect you to be such a formidable minister," Guo Feng admitted with a hint of regret.


    "I dare not im such a title! Guo Feng, surrender and open the gates!" Lin Xiaomanded.


    "Surrender? Hmph, I, Guo Feng, would rather die than surrender. If this is the end, let Zhong Shan meet me for a final battle as per the rules of war!" Guo Feng demanded resolutely.


    "You are not worthy to meet His Majesty, let alone duel him!" Lin Xiao replied, shaking his head.


    "What did you say?" Guo Feng roared in anger.


    Lin Xiao''s disdainful look conveyed his thoughts clearly: How could someone like Guo Fengpare to the emperor? Even a single legionmander of the Dazhen Dynasty could bring the entire Dayan Dynasty to its knees. The Dazhen Dynasty had six suchmanders. How could Guo Feng dare to challenge the emperor?


    "Attack the city!" Lin Xiao ordered, wasting no more words.


    A Month Later


    Zhong Shan returned with Mr. Corpse and Xianxian.


    By now, the Dayan Dynasty had been obliterated, and the two cities previously captured by the Dayan Dynasty from the Daying Dynasty had fallen into Lin Xiao''s hands. The Dazhen Dynasty now controlled seventy-four cities, while the Daying Dynasty held twenty-six.


    In terms of both military strength and morale, the Dazhen Dynasty was at its peak, brimming with a fervent desire for battle. The disparity in power was clear, naturally leading to the unification of the forbiddennds beyond the underworld.


    However, the Daying Dynasty had long prepared for resistance, and with Yan Chongzhi''s return half a month earlier, Lin Xiao''s advance was immediately obstructed. Yan Chongzhi was a man of great talent, with far-reaching political insight and formidable military capabilities.


    The former bnce of power among the three great dynasties had been maintained due to the constraints imposed by the former Great Xian Emperor. Although the old emperor had died, he had been a ruthless character whose strategic deployments made Lin Xiao proceed with caution until Zhong Shan returned.


    "Your Majesty, I have made all the necessary arrangements. Please review this strategy. With it, we can capture at least ten cities from the Daying Dynasty," Lin Xiao said, confidently handing Zhong Shan a jade slip.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan took the jade slip and carefully examined it.


    "Excellent, Lin Xiao. Your war strategies are bing more impressive. Even if this n were revealed to the enemy, they wouldn''t be able to defend against it. It''s wless, impable," Zhong Shan praised.


    "Your Majesty tters me," Lin Xiao replied, shaking his head modestly.


    Zhong Shan gave Lin Xiao a satisfied look and said, "In that case, inform Yan Chongzhi of this n."


    "Uh?" Lin Xiao was taken aback.


    Indeed, even if Yan Chongzhi were informed of this strategy, they could still capture ten cities from the Daying Dynasty. However, if Yan Chongzhi were not informed, they could potentially capture fifteen or more. Why would His Majesty want to inform the enemy?


    Lin Xiao didn''t understand, and Zhong Shan just smiled without exnation.


    The next day, Zhong Shan sent a letter, including Lin Xiao''s city-capturing strategy, directly to the capital of the Daying Dynasty, to Yan Chongzhi''s hands.


    Upon receiving Zhong Shan''s letter, Yan Chongzhi was deeply conflicted. He didn''t attend court that morning, instead, he spent the entire day in his study, pondering and deliberating, torn between conflicting decisions.


    Zhong Shan''s letter was as powerful as a million-strong army. Even someone as strategically brilliant as Yan Chongzhi found himself in a severe dilemma.


    The entire day, Yan Chongzhi did not appear in court, causing great concern among the officials. The army of the Dazhen Dynasty was already at the front lines. Without a decisivemand from their emperor, the Daying Dynasty was in grave danger!


    However, Yan Chongzhi had ordered everyone to leave him alone, and no one dared to disturb him. Some senior officials realized that they had to request the old drunkard to see what was troubling the emperor.


    Rubbing his sleepy eyes, the old drunkard was summoned and went straight to Yan Chongzhi''s study. Perhaps he was the only one in the Daying Dynasty who could disregard Yan Chongzhi''s orders.


    "Yan Chongzhi, what''s going on? Your ministers have been bothering me since morning. Can''t a man get some sleep?" the old drunkard asked as he barged into the study.


    Yan Chongzhi took a deep breath and handed Zhong Shan''s letter to the old drunkard.


    With a hint of curiosity, the old drunkard read the letter. His expression grew increasingly strange as he read, then he looked at Yan Chongzhi and asked, "Zhong Shan is inviting you to join his grand cause?"


    "Yes," Yan Chongzhi nodded.


    "What do you think?" the old drunkard asked curiously.


    With a bitter smile, Yan Chongzhi replied, "What can I think? What do you make of Zhong Shan?"


    "Strong! Mysterious! Far more strategically brilliant than you," the old drunkard said bluntly.


    Yan Chongzhi shot the old drunkard a disgruntled look but did not argue.


    "Do you think the Daying Dynasty can be the dominant power in the underworld?" Yan Chongzhi asked again.


    "It''s difficult. Dealing with just the Dazhen Dynasty is already tough, not to mention the many other imperial dynasties and two great celestial dynasties. It''s extremely challenging," the old drunkard said straightforwardly.


    "And what about Zhong Shan?" Yan Chongzhi inquired.


    "Uh, I think you already have an idea in your heart, don''t you?" the old drunkard replied enigmatically.


    Dazhen Camp


    "Your Majesty, when will we start the siege? I''m afraid if we wait too long, our strategy might be ineffective. Capturing those ten cities will cripple the Daying Dynasty''s ability to resist us," Lin Xiao expressed his concern.


    "Lin Xiao, how much do you think we can expand in the underworld on our own?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "Uh, it''s hard to say!" Lin Xiao frowned.


    "In the underworld, where ghosts far outnumber humans, if our dynasty cannot incorporate ghost armies, we will inevitably be overwhelmed by the other dynasties," Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "Your Majesty intends to recruit Yan Chongzhi?" Lin Xiao''s eyes lit up, immediately grasping Zhong Shan''s intention.


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan nodded in satisfaction.


    "Rest assured, Your Majesty. I will wage the most decisive war to crush Yan Chongzhi''s confidence, making it easier for you to recruit him," Lin Xiao pledged.


    Zhong Shan smiled but did not respond directly. Instead, he said, "Let''s go. It''s about time. Now, let''s go and take over the Daying cities."


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao responded immediately.


    Lin Xiao did not dwell on Zhong Shan''s choice of words; Zhong Shan had said "take over," not "attack."


    As the army moved westward, they reached the first city on the Daying border. Lin Xiao was stunned.


    The city''s gates were wide open, and therge "Ying" character on the city wall had been reced with "Zhen."


    What was going on?


    The gs on the city walls had changed?


    Lin Xiao was momentarily speechless, struggling to believe his eyes. Just then, a scout reported in.


    "Reporting to Your Majesty, all twenty-six cities of the Daying Dynasty have their gates open, and all Daying banners have been reced with our dynasty''s banners," the scout reported.


    Upon hearing the report, Lin Xiao felt dizzy. Could it be true? Had Yan Chongzhi surrendered the entire Daying Dynasty?


    Lin Xiao found it hard to believe, but after receiving the same report from three more scouts, he finally epted it. He suddenly recalled the letter Zhong Shan had sent to Yan Chongzhi.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Lin Xiao felt his admiration grow. His own perfect n, which he believed to be wless, was guaranteed to capture ten cities from Daying. Yet His Majesty, with a single letter, had taken all twenty-six cities without shedding a drop of blood. This was unimaginable. Standing at the pinnacle, one could see the true scale of the world. His Majesty was indeed a figure of extraordinary brilliance.


    Of course, Zhong Shan''s sess in persuading Yan Chongzhi was partly due to Lin Xiao''s impable siege strategy and the impact of the events at the Ghost Realm of the Great Marsh two months prior.


    As the Dazhen army began taking over the cities, Yan Chongzhi personally led his ministers from the capital to meet Zhong Shan.


    Dressed in ck schr''s robes instead of his royal garb, Yan Chongzhi and his ministers bowed before Zhong Shan.


    "Yan Chongzhi, along with the former officials of the Daying Dynasty, pays respects to Your Majesty!" Yan Chongzhi dered.


    "Excellent! Yan Chongzhi, today I appoint you as the Seventh Corps Commander of the Dazhen Dynasty and bestow upon you the title of Marquis of Yingwu!" Zhong Shan announced, pleased with the appointment and the marquis title.


    Seventh Corps Commander? Yan Chongzhi was momentarily taken aback. Seventh? Lin Xiao was the First Corps Commander of the Dazhen Dynasty. How had he suddenly be the Seventh? Did this mean there were five other corpsmanders ahead of him? The thought made Yan Chongzhi''s heart tighten, apanied by a wry smile. His Majesty''s depth of nning was truly profound.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Yan Chongzhi immediately expressed his gratitude.

 Chapter 555 - 557: Peerless General

    <h4>Chapter 555: Chapter 557: Peerless General</h4>


    Dressed in white and wielding a silver spear, Zhao Suoxiang stood defiantly. He was the same Zhao Suoxiang from the Iron Spear Sect on Heavenly Wolf Ind, Zhong Shan''s old friend. After the sect was annihted, Zhao Suoxiang, with Zhong Shan''s help, inherited the sect''s treasured Spear Heart and left for Shenzhou with his senior uncles to seek development.


    "It''s Zhao Suoxiang!" Tian Ling''er eximed in surprise.


    Tian Ling''er knew Zhao Suoxiang from her first journey with Zhong Shan. They hadter faced enemies together at the Zhong Residence. Although they were not very familiar, she remembered him.


    "Is that man really just at the Nascent Soul peak? Is he nning to fight the entire monkey horde alone?" Gu Qianyou asked with a hint of doubt.


    Nascent Soul peak? There were thousands of demon monkeys before him, with over a hundred at the Nascent Soul stage and six at the Integration stage. Could Zhao Suoxiang handle them all alone?


    As Gu Qianyou and others pondered, Zhao Suoxiang let out a long howl and charged into the horde with his spear.


    The lower-level monkeys attacked first, each wielding a stick and disying their brute strength. However, as soon as Zhao Suoxiang entered the fray, a terrifying disaster unfolded.


    With a single sweep of his spear, Zhao Suoxiang caused a monkey to explode. Despite their enormous size, the monkeys were no match for him.


    As one monkey exploded, Zhao Suoxiang''s spear danced wildly, sending countless monkey corpses flying into the sky. Blood and limbs rained down, and his spear carried a fierce masculine aura. Wherever his spear pointed, nothing could stand in his way.


    Despite the overwhelming number of monkeys, Zhao Suoxiang quickly adapted, his body moving fluidly. Hundreds of spear energies shot out from his sides, resembling rockets, and they struck in all directions, creating a storm of carnage.


    The battle turned frenzied as Zhao Suoxiang spun his spear with unparalleled precision, reaping the lives of the monkey horde like a machine. Any Golden Core stage monkey that touched his spear was instantly annihted. Even the Nascent Soul stage monkeys met the same fate, unable to withstand his attacks.


    "Incredible! In such a short time, he has already killed nearly five hundred monkeys, and yet his clothes remain unstained by blood," A''da remarked in amazement.


    "Didn''t you notice? Zhao Suoxiang''s movements are perfectly efficient��no wasted motion at all," Zhihuo observed, narrowing his eyes.


    As the group marveled, one of the enormous Integration stage demon monkeys could no longer tolerate it. In a brief period, five Nascent Soul stage monkeys had perished under Zhao Suoxiang''s spear, which seemed like a call of death. The giant monkey leapt, raising a colossal club, and descended upon Zhao Suoxiang with crushing force.


    The club''s fall sealed Zhao Suoxiang''s escape route. He had no choice but to face it head-on.


    The Integration stage monkey''s strike was incredibly powerful, creating a gale that pushed the surrounding monkeys away.


    Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes widened. He assumed a bow-and-arrow stance, his spear pointing directly at the descending club.


    "Ha!"


    With a thunderous shout, veins bulging on his forehead, Zhao Suoxiang''s spear seemed to swell tenfold in strength.


    A monumental sh ensued between Zhao Suoxiang''s spear and the giant monkey''s club.


    The peak of Nascent Soul shed fiercely with the power of the Integration stage.


    "Boom!"


    The spear and club collided, unleashing a powerful shockwave that pushed the surrounding monkeys further back. Zhao Suoxiang''s stance was firm, his feet dug into the dry ground, which cracked and raised a cloud of dust under the immense pressure.


    As the dust settled, Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes zed with battle intent, while the giant monkey''s cluby broken in two. The giant monkey, stunned by disbelief, could only watch as Zhao Suoxiang leaped up. His spear danced in a deadly arc, and a massive spear energy shot towards the monkey''s face.


    Zhao Suoxiang''s muscles strained against his once-loose white robe, now stretched taut and ready to tear. The giant monkey, seeing the spear energying, hastily tried to defend itself.


    "Thud!"


    In the incredulous eyes of the monkey horde, Zhao Suoxiang''s fierce strike pierced the giant monkey''s heart, right at its Purple Pce. It was as if time stood still, every monkey unable to believe that one of their leaders had been killed in a single move.


    The impaled giant monkey, too, looked on in disbelief, but it was toote. Zhao Suoxiang retracted his spear and then thrust it forward again, shattering the giant monkey''s head. Hended gracefully, raising another cloud of dust, and the fallen monkey''s corpse added a terrifying presence that instilled fear in the entire horde.


    Without paying any attention to the monkeys'' reactions, Zhao Suoxiang pointed his spear and charged back into the fray, his fierceness reaching the heavens.


    The ten spear-wielding men behind him looked at Zhao Suoxiang with utter admiration as he ughtered the monkeys.


    From high above, Zhong Shan''s group was equally astonished, especially Zhihuo and the others.


    "A Nascent Soul stage against an Integration stage? One encounter? Just one move to win?" Zhihuo''s eyes were filled with disbelief. This defied all his previous understanding. Even if such challenges were possible, they shouldn''t happen this quickly. One move, just one move, absolute suppression!


    "What an unparalleled general!" Gu Qianyou eximed in awe.


    "A general?" Tian Ling''er asked, not quite understanding.


    "Yes, a general is different from a strategist. Theyck the intelligence of strategists but possess a bravery that strategists can never match. On the front lines, an army with a general is invincible. Not only is a general personally courageous, but they also inspire their troops with a fervent spirit. As long as the general is present, the soldiers fight with unmatched zeal, ready to die in battle without retreating. Conversely, this same spirit bes a heavy burden on the enemy, significantly reducing their effectiveness. In the past, the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty had countless generals, but there was only one true unparalleled general��Grand Marshal Huan Tulong! Yet, I doubt even Huan Tulong, at Zhao Suoxiang''s level, could match his ferocity," Gu Qianyou exined.


    "Huan Tulong was a general?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, he once served as a corpsmander. Wielding a dragon-ying de, he was unstoppable. His soldiers were willing to follow him to their deaths, and he was invincible against countless formidable generals," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    "I see," Zhong Shan nodded thoughtfully.


    "Husband, should we help?" Bao''er asked.


    "No need. I know his temperament. He loves a good fight and doesn''t need anyone to interfere. Didn''t you see that even his subordinates aren''t intervening?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Alright," Bao''er nodded in understanding.


    Zhao Suoxiang, with his silver spear, faced thousands of monkeys alone. His ferocity was unmatched. Zhao Suoxiang''s innate fierceness was apparent from his mortal days on the battlefield, where he was known as an undefeated general. After bing a cultivator, he had tempered this ferocity, but now, as an official once more, he embraced his role with renewed vigor.


    Killing, killing, killing!


    Zhao Suoxiang was like a war god, moving through the monkey horde as if there were no monkeys at all. The ughter was exhrating for him, and he fought tirelessly for an entire day and night. Despite the relentless battle, Zhao Suoxiang showed no signs of fatigue, continuing his rampage.


    By the end of the day and night, the ground was littered with over eight thousand monkey corpses. The remaining thousand or so monkeys were terrified and fled quickly. However, Zhao Suoxiang, immersed in a peculiar state as if on the brink of a breakthrough, would not let them escape. His ten subordinates knew his condition well and swiftly moved to corral the fleeing monkeys back.


    "Boom!"


    With a thunderous roar, Zhao Suoxiang plunged his spear into the ground, causing it to crack. An overwhelming aura erupted from him.


    His ten subordinates abandoned the remaining monkeys and surrounded Zhao Suoxiang. The monkeys, now thoroughly broken in spirit, discarded their clubs and fled in panic. Zhao Suoxiang had be their eternal nightmare.


    Standing with his spear embedded in the ground, Zhao Suoxiang closed his eyes, allowing the wind to blow around him, emanating a powerful aura.


    An hourter, Zhao Suoxiang opened his eyes, which now gleamed with intense battle intent.


    "Congrattions, General!" his ten subordinates cheered.


    They knew Zhao Suoxiang had been at the peak of the Nascent Soul stage, needing only an opportunity to break through. The day and night of relentless fighting had provided that opportunity, pushing him to the Integration stage.


    Upon breaking through, Zhao Suoxiang immediately looked up.


    "Friends in the sky, have you seen enough?" Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes turned cold.


    At his words, the ten subordinates drew their spears, ready forbat.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan dispelled the illusion hiding them.


    Seeing the group, the subordinates'' eyes turned colder.


    "Zhao Suoxiang!" Zhong Shan called out loudly.


    The moment the illusion vanished, Zhao Suoxiang spotted Zhong Shan at the center and recognized him instantly.


    "Zhong Shan! It''s you!" Zhao Suoxiang eximed in surprise, his face lighting up with joy.


    The general knows these people? The ten subordinates were momentarily taken aback.


    "Hahaha! What a fierce battle! Your iron spear is as mighty as ever!" Zhong Shanughed as he and his group descended from the clouds.


    "You tter me. I imagine this level of battle wouldn''t even catch your eye," Zhao Suoxiang replied with a heartyugh.


    Hearing Zhao Suoxiang''s words, the subordinates were even more surprised. Their general, usually stern and proud, was nowughing heartily and speaking humbly. Who were these people?


    "Still as modest as ever, I see. You''ve grown stronger, but the spirit remains the same," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "These are my friends and allies. Meet mypanions: Bao''er, Ling''er, Qianyou, A''da, A''er, Zhihuo, Qinghong, and two wolf generals," Zhong Shan introduced.


    "It''s good to see you, Zhao Suoxiang. You''ve be even more formidable," Tian Ling''er greeted him warmly.


    "And you haven''t changed a bit, Ling''er," Zhao Suoxiang responded with a grin.


    "This battle was impressive. You''ve always been a peerless general," Gu Qianyou remarked.


    "Thank you. It''s an honor to receive such praise," Zhao Suoxiang replied, bowing slightly.


    The ten subordinates exchanged nces, realizing the significance of Zhong Shan and hispanions. Respecting their general''s demeanor, they sheathed their weapons and stood at attention.


    "So, what brings you here, Zhao Suoxiang?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "We are on a mission to exterminate the demon monkeys of the Blue me Empire. It''s been a challenging task, but your presence here is a most wee surprise," Zhao Suoxiang exined.


    "It seems fate has brought us together again. Let''s join forces andplete this mission," Zhong Shan suggested.


    "With pleasure," Zhao Suoxiang agreed.


    And so, the two groups merged,bining their strength and experience, ready to face whatever challengesy ahead in the Blue me Empire.

 Chapter 556 - 555: Earth Book, Heavenly Scripture

    <h4>Chapter 556: Chapter 555: Earth Book, Heavenly Scripture</h4>


    Yan Chongzhi''s alliance with the Dazhen Dynasty, followed by Dazhen''s conquest of the Dayan Dynasty and the unification of the forbiddennds, led to an explosive expansion of Dazhen''s power. Within less than a decade, the Dazhen Dynasty had achieved remarkable sess, showcasing the brilliance and strategic prowess of Emperor Zhong Shan. This attracted numerous talents and ghosts from the underworld.


    The Dazhen Dynasty, now a mixed-race empire, boasted both human and ghost armies. Its formidable presence gradually became known throughout the underworld.


    After the great war, the focus naturally shifted to recuperation and consolidation, strengthening the nation''s power. Zhong Shan, with his unparalleled abilities, understood this better than anyone.


    The expansion of the new territory made it unwise to engage in further wars. Otherwise, it could provoke the other powers into forming a coalition against Dazhen, which was not what Zhong Shan desired. His current goal was to have the other powers gradually ept Dazhen and lower their guard.


    Thus, nearly five more years passed in this manner.


    In Zhong Shan''s study in the underworld, a man in a ck robe, the Mud Buddha, returned.


    "Your Majesty, forgive me. I was dyed by various matters and couldn''t return sooner," the Mud Buddha said sincerely.


    Yan Chongzhi, standing nearby, was slightly surprised. Who was this person? He couldn''t gauge his depth at all. Moreover, he seemed to hold a significant position in the Dazhen Dynasty. ording to the information Yan had gathered over the years, there was no mention of this person.


    Lin Xiao and Mr. Corpse remained expressionless as they looked at the Mud Buddha.


    "Oh? Did you go far?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I went to the Great Thousand World this time," the Mud Buddha replied.


    "What? Impossible! How could you leave and return?" Yan Chongzhi eximed in shock.


    The Mud Buddha gave Yan Chongzhi a curious nce.


    "This is Yan Chongzhi, the Seventh Corps Commander of the Dazhen Dynasty and Marquis of Yingwu," Zhong Shan introduced.


    "No one can leave and return, not even immortals!" Yan Chongzhi stared at the Mud Buddha.


    "I am a feng shui master," the Mud Buddha said calmly.


    "A feng shui master?" Yan Chongzhi was taken aback and then showed a strange expression. A feng shui master? He''s a feng shui master serving the Dazhen Dynasty? Yan Chongzhi grew increasingly astonished.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, his curiosity deepened. Just how many surprises did this emperor have in store?


    Feng shui masters were typically only found in celestial dynasties. There were few in the underworld, and yet one appeared in the Dazhen Dynasty?


    "The Great Thousand World?" Zhong Shan asked the Mud Buddha.


    "Due to the unique nature of my lineage, I can use certain special methods to enter the vicinity of the Reincarnation Pce in the Great Thousand World. However, I can''t ess other areas. To be precise, it was just my ''spirit'' that left; my ''body'' remained in this realm," the Mud Buddha exined.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Your Majesty, a few years ago, did a fire qilin descend into the underworld?" the Mud Buddha asked.


    "Oh? How do you know about that?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    It was a well-guarded secret, known only to his closest allies, as most witnesses had perished.


    "Yes, it''s been widely discussed in the Great Thousand World. Numerous experts nearly broke through the barrier to enter this realm, but theirck of unity prevented sess. Shortly after, the fire qilin escaped," the Mud Buddha exined.


    "The fire qilin? Why were so many experts focused on it?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "It wasn''t the fire qilin itself; it was the book the fire qilin seized," the Mud Buddha replied.


    "A book?" Zhong Shan suddenly remembered the iron book the fire qilin had in its mouth. Was it that book?


    The fact that numerous experts from the Great Thousand World failed to break through the barrier highlighted its strength. However, one expert had managed to breach the underworld barrier alone. How powerful must that individual be?


    The grand expert must have operated very discreetly, as most people in the Great Thousand World were unaware of this event.


    "I''m not sure what the book is exactly. I only heard that the fire qilin happened to obtain it when it emerged, and then it was relentlessly pursued," the Mud Buddha exined.


    "Uh? Emerged?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, it''s said that the book wasn''t crafted by anyone but was a spiritual object born of heaven and earth, called the ''Earth Book''," the Mud Buddha said after some thought.


    "Earth Book?" Mr. Corpse suddenly eximed in surprise.


    "That''s what I''ve heard," the Mud Buddha said, giving Mr. Corpse a curious nce.


    "Earth Book? No wonder, no wonder so many powerful figures from the Great Thousand World were drawn to it," Mr. Corpse sighed deeply.


    "You know about the Earth Book?" Zhong Shan asked Mr. Corpse.


    "Indeed. In the Great Thousand World, there''s more than one Earth Book. Every time an Earth Book appears, it triggers endless bloodshed. The Earth Book represents power, a divine power bestowed by heaven and earth. It can be used as a magical weapon and is one of the most potent spiritual treasures of the world. Moreover, it contains cultivation methods that can elevate a person''s strength to the level of a grand expert. Whenever the Earth Book''s techniques emerge, countless powerful figures go mad, fighting desperately to seize it," Mr. Corpse exined with deep reverence.


    "An Earth Book? A grand expert?" Zhong Shan was astonished.


    What is a grand expert? A few years ago, Zhong Shan had seen a glimpse of their power��an overwhelming palm strike that covered the sky, even when constrained by thews of this realm.


    Could an Earth Book really create such a grand expert?


    The Earth Book! Indeed, if he had known about it back then, he might have been tempted to seize it himself.


    "Of course, to be a grand expert, the possessor of the Earth Book must survive until they reach that level," Mr. Corpse added.


    Survive? Mr. Corpse''s words revealed the harsh reality of the Great Thousand World. Even with a powerful cultivation method, time was needed for growth. The Earth Book was a treasure coveted by grand experts, and its possessor would incur the wrath of the entire world. Imagine the scenario��being hunted by everyone. It would take immense courage to endure that.


    "Is the Earth Book''s cultivation method the strongest in the Great Thousand World?" the Mud Buddha asked.


    "No. Some grand experts can create simrly powerful methods. However, the Earth Book is a divine gift, which ces it at the top," Mr. Corpse rified.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "There''s another legend, a legend within a legend. I don''t know if it''s true, but since we''re discussing the Earth Book, I''ll mention it," Mr. Corpse reminisced.


    "Oh?" Everyone looked at Mr. Corpse.


    "The strongest cultivation method isn''t the Earth Book but another thing born of heaven and earth," Mr. Corpse recalled.


    "What is it?"


    "The Heavenly Scripture."


    "Heavenly Scripture?" the Mud Buddha''s eyes lit up, recalling the Myriad Shadows Heavenly Scripture he had seen and destroyed. Could it be that?


    Zhong Shan, hearing the sensitive term "Heavenly Scripture," also felt a surge of excitement. Something even stronger than the Earth Book? The Heavenly Scripture?


    "The Heavenly Scripture is different from the Earth Book. It''s not something anyone can cultivate. It requires fate. Even if a Heavenly Scripture is ced before you, you might not be able to learn it. Moreover, some Heavenly Scriptures need special treasures to practice," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Like what?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly excited.


    "In the legends of the Great Thousand World, such powerful Heavenly Scriptures are often considered distant myths, mere tales from long ago. I''ve only ever heard of one such Heavenly Scripture and its apanying magical treasure," Mr. Corpse recalled.


    "Oh?"


    "The scripture is called the ''Scripture of Creation.'' To practice it, one must have an auxiliary item known as the ''Jade Disc.'' Eventually, it was lost to history, and I only know about it through hearsay," Mr. Corpse said.


    "Scripture of Creation? Jade Disc?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Your Majesty, these are just stories I heard in my youth. They may not be true, and the existence of Heavenly Scriptures is uncertain. However, the Earth Book is undoubtedly real," Mr. Corpse exined.


    Whether the Heavenly Scriptures were myths or not, even in the Great Thousand World, it was uncertain. Yet Zhong Shan trusted Mr. Corpse''s words. Heavenly Scriptures! Zhong Shan felt a strange sensation. Could the Hong Luan Heavenly Scripture and the Myriad Shadows Heavenly Scripture be the legendary items Mr. Corpse mentioned?


    The Mud Buddha remained silent throughout the discussion. When the meeting concluded and everyone else left, he stayed behind.


    "Your Majesty, I have wronged you," the Mud Buddha said solemnly, bowing deeply.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at the Mud Buddha.


    "Your Majesty, I destroyed your precious ''Myriad Shadows Heavenly Scripture'' and its auxiliary treasure, the ''Myriad Shadows Heavenly Mirror,'' causing you to lose such valuable items," the Mud Buddha said regretfully.


    "Didn''t you say that the mirror was created by a wise predecessor?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "That was just a story passed down in my lineage. A member of my line once practiced it, went mad, and wreaked havoc, generating immense karma. Our ancestralmand was to destroy the treasure. I had no choice," the Mud Buddha exined with regret.


    "Forget it. As Mr. Corpse said, practicing a Heavenly Scripture requires fate. I may not have had that fate. Even if I possessed it, I might not have been able to practice it. Besides, to gain it is fortunate; to lose it is destiny. You don''t need to worry," Zhong Shan said cheerfully.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s smile, the Mud Buddha felt even more apprehensive.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty, for your forgiveness," the Mud Buddha said cautiously.


    "However, let this matter end here. No one else must know about the Myriad Shadows Heavenly Scripture," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "Yes!" the Mud Buddha replied immediately.


    The Mud Buddha believed Zhong Shan was being cautious. If any grand expert discovered the existence of the Myriad Shadows Heavenly Scripture, they would certainly pursue Zhong Shan and himself relentlessly. The potential consequences were dire.


    Little did he know, Zhong Shan had already practiced the Myriad Shadows Heavenly Scripture and had reached the ninth level, even unlocking the Reincarnation Eyes. He had no intention of revealing this secret and would remain vignt about it.


    Scripture of Creation? Jade Disc?


    Zhong Shan smiled mysteriously.


    Dazhen Dynasty in the Underworld


    The Dazhen Dynasty entered a period of recuperation and strengthening.


    Dazhen Dynasty in the Mortal Realm


    In the mortal realm, an unexpected event urred in the Dazhen Dynasty, involving not Zhong Shan, but the Empress, Gan Baobao.

 Chapter 557 - 556: The Great Alchemy Gathering

    <h4>Chapter 557: Chapter 556: The Great Alchemy Gathering</h4>


    On this day, in the mortal realm, within the Dazhen Dynasty''s capital of Xuankong, in the imperial harem, Gan Baobao held an invitation card adorned with a dragon and a tiger. Her brows were furrowed, as if she was contemting something deeply.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Gan Baobao handed the invitation to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan took it and after a moment, a trace of confusion appeared on his face.


    "The Great Alchemy Gathering?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, it is a once-in-a-millennium alchemypetition organized by all the sects focused on alchemy. This gathering attracts most of the powerful alchemy sects from all over Shenzhou. They participate topete for the title of ''Alchemist Saint''," Baobao exined.


    "Alchemist Saint?" Zhong Shan found it somewhat peculiar.


    "This invitation is from the Dragon and Tiger Alchemist Saint, inviting our Tai Dan Sect to the Blue me Empire topete with the world''s best alchemists," Baobao said.


    "Blue me Empire? What''s their rtionship with this Dragon and Tiger Alchemist Saint?" Zhong Shan inquired with a frown.


    "The Dragon and Tiger Alchemist Saint is a former member of the Blue me Empire''s royal family. For three consecutive terms, he has won the title of ''Alchemist Saint'' and now oversees the ''Eternal Saint tform''," Baobao exined.


    "Eternal Saint tform?"


    "Yes, it is the most treasured item in the alchemy world. It belongs to no one, and there is a universal rule that whoever holds the title of Alchemist Saint gains control of the Eternal Saint tform. Even the various celestial dynasties and holynds abide by this rule. Anyone attempting to seize it by force would face collective retribution from the celestial dynasties and holynds," Baobao borated.


    "What is the purpose of the Eternal Saint tform?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It gathers and purifies the spiritual energy of heaven and earth for the person on the tform. With it, the sess rate of alchemy increases significantly, and the quality of the elixirs improves. Over time, even the alchemy furnaces can be upgraded. Cultivators can also advance their practice much faster on the tform. There are many benefits, but I''m not entirely sure of all of them. I only know that the Eternal Saint tform is a sacred object in the world of alchemy," Baobao said.


    Elixirs? Zhong Shan understood the importance of elixirs to the dynasty. Every dynasty had its alchemy department, not only to provide divine elixirs for the breakthroughs of the strong but also to supply healing pills for the army. Without such support, why would soldiers risk their lives in battle?


    A dynasty operates as a system; soldiers need not worry about crafting weapons or alchemy. They follow orders and receive rewards, which save them time and provide them with benefits, including longevity and increased cultivation. Thus, elixirs are essential to the operation of any dynasty.


    The mention of the Eternal Saint tform piqued Zhong Shan''s interest, sensing its immense potential.


    "Do you want to go?" Zhong Shan asked Baobao.


    "Yes, I want to go!" Baobao replied firmly after a moment of thought.


    "Then let''s go. We will go together," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "You too, my lord?" Baobao was surprised.


    After all, Xuankong needed Zhong Shan''s presence. What would happen if he left?


    "It''s fine. Xuankong is on Heavenly Wolf Ind. Who would dare cause trouble? Not only will I go, but Ling''er and Qianyou wille too. It''s been a long time since we went out, so let''s consider this a chance to get some fresh air," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Alright!" Baobao nodded.


    Since Zhong Shan had decided, Baobao didn''t object further.


    When Ling''er learned of the news, she was overjoyed and eagerly packed her things, ready to set off early.


    Zhong Shan''s group consisted of ten people: Zhong Shan, Bao''er, Ling''er, Qianyou, A''da, A''er, Zhihuo, Qinghong, and two wolf generals. Except for Bao''er and Ling''er, everyone else was at the Emperor Extreme Realm, making the group''sbat power exceptionally strong. Such a lineup could probably only be assembled by the Dazhen Dynasty among the world''s many dynasties.


    With their direction set, the group embarked on their journey.


    The Blue me Empire, located in the western part of Shenzhou and near the Taishui Celestial Dynasty, was far from Heavenly Wolf Ind. Thus, the group set out early, knowing they still had three years until the Great Alchemy Gathering. Along the way, theybined travel with sightseeing.


    Despite Zhong Shan''s outwardly rxed demeanor, Ancient Qianyou sensed the weight on his mind.


    Two and a half yearster, they were close to the Blue me Empire. One day, they stopped in a valley, setting up their pce seats and other items to rest temporarily.


    Having just caught some rare birds and exotic beasts, Bao''er personally cooked for Zhong Shan, while Ling''er, out of curiosity, helped Bao''er in the kitchen, learning how to prepare the dishes. The others guarded the area, ensuring no one disturbed them.


    Zhong Shan sat at a stone table, watching the two women busying themselves, smiling.


    Qianyou brewed a pot of tea for Zhong Shan and poured him a cup.


    "What are you thinking about?" Qianyou asked softly, handing over the tea.


    Zhong Shan shook his head, smiling as he took the cup without saying much.


    "Are you thinking about Sister Kui''er?" Qianyou asked.


    Upon hearing this, Zhong Shan''s hand trembled slightly. Although the movement was subtle, Qianyou noticed it, and a ripple appeared in the tea.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded, not denying it.


    A sh of envy crossed Qianyou''s eyes. She knew that, above all, the most important woman in Zhong Shan''s heart was his first wife, Wei Kui''er, who had died. Wei Kui''er was killed by the Crown Prince of the Taishui Celestial Dynasty, and the Taishui Celestial Dynasty was very close to the Blue me Empire. How could Zhong Shan not think of this as they neared the Blue me Empire?


    Since meeting Zhong Shan, he had never spoken of the Taishui Celestial Dynasty or the Crown Prince. This silence spoke volumes about the immense hatred he harbored.


    "What are you going to do?" Qianyou asked, showing a trace of worry.


    Zhong Shan gave a bitter smile and looked at Qianyou. "Don''t worry, now is not the time for me to act. Besides, Kui''er wouldn''t want me to throw my life away."


    "Okay," Qianyou nodded, moving behind Zhong Shan to gently massage his shoulders.


    Despite being a task for servants, Qianyou performed the massage with great skill because the person she was massaging was her beloved. Even the strongest person has a vulnerable side, and Qianyou knew this particr wound in Zhong Shan''s heart, continuously soothing it with her gentleness.


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes, enjoying Qianyou''s tender care.


    "Boom!"


    A loud explosion came from outside the valley.


    "Squeak, squeak, squeak!"


    A series of squeaks followed.


    "Get out!"


    Zhihuo''s angry voice echoed from outside the valley.


    The angry voice of the wolf general Zhihuo could be heard, driving away the monkeys.


    "Take your followers and leave from another direction! Get lost!" Zhihuo shouted again.


    Zhong Shan opened his eyes, and Gu Qianyou also looked surprised. Their divine senses detected that the iing monkeys were not just a few dozen, but thousands. The monkeys were quite powerful, with the strongest ones reaching the Integration Stage and towering up to forty meters tall. However, Zhihuo, being a wolf general, wouldn''t be intimidated by these Integration Stage monkeys.


    Zhihuo''s task was to keep watch and ensure that no outsiders disturbed the Emperor.


    In front of Zhihuo, more and more monkeys gathered, ring at him with anger. Leading them were six Integration Stage Long-Armed Ape Monkeys, each wielding a huge stick, appearing ready tomand the entire troop to battle against Zhihuo.


    "Anyone who steps forward will die!" Zhihuo said impatiently.


    Five of the Integration Stage monkeys seemed eager to attack, but the tallest one in the center waved its hand, causing all the monkeys to halt. The monkey stared intensely at Zhihuo for a moment. Meanwhile, several more people flew out from the valley.


    Upon seeing the neers, the tallest monkey waved its hand again. The monkeys reluctantly screeched a few times before following the lead monkey and bypassing the valley, heading west.


    Zhong Shan, having been alerted, naturally came out to see what was happening.


    Seeing the army of nearly ten thousand monkeys depart, Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow. Monkeys?


    "Bao''er, let''s do it another day. Let''s go and take a look," Zhong Shan said to Bao''er below.


    "It''s already done. Why not eat while we go?" Bao''er suggested hopefully.


    "Yes, Sister and I worked hard to prepare this meal," Ling''er added, looking aggrieved.


    Seeing the two women''s disappointed expressions, Zhong Shan smiled wryly. "Alright, pack it into the pce. We''ll continue our meal as we follow the monkeys."


    "Yes!" Zhihuo responded immediately.


    With numerous Emperor Extreme Realm experts, transporting a pce through the sky was an easy task.


    A small white cloud supported the pce from below, carefully and steadily following the monkey troop from a distance.


    Inside the pce, Zhong Shan tasted the dishes prepared by the two women.


    The monkey troop moved westward, entering the territory of the Blue me Empire.


    Two dayster, the monkeys encountered a scene of numerous red monkey corpses scattered on the ground, igniting their fury. They raised their clubs and began searching the area.


    "Wretched beasts, we''ve been waiting for you!" a loud voice echoed from a nearby valley.


    A man dressed in white, with hair flowing behind him and wielding a silver-white spear, stepped out from the valley. His battle intent was palpable even from afar.


    Behind the man, ten more people, each holding a spear, emerged from the valley. They eyed the approaching monkeys coldly. Unlike the white-robed man, they were covered in bloodstains. However, their eyes revealed an unyielding spirit, a defiance of heaven and earth, and a loyalty to the white-robed man.


    "By the Emperor''s order, we are to exterminate all demon monkeys of the Blue me Empire. Leave now, or today will be your death day."


    "Roar!"


    The lead monkey let out an enraged roar. It understood that the countless monkey corpses on the ground were the work of these people. Waving its club, itmanded the monkeys to charge at the white-robed man.


    At themand, thousands of monkeys surged forward like a tidal wave.


    "You all stand down. I alone am enough!" the white-robed man said arrogantly.


    With a flourish of his spear, he pointed it directly at the army of monkeys.


    From high above, Zhong Shan watched the scene unfold. When he saw the white-robed man step out of the valley, his mouth dropped open in astonishment.


    Zhao Suoxiang!

 Chapter 558: The Pursuit of Jian Hong

    <h4>Chapter 558: The Pursuit of Jian Hong</h4>


    Zhong Shan and Zhao Suoxiang, old friends reunited, naturally took the opportunity to catch up. They relocated to a tranquil valley, set up a pavilion by a small stream, and spent time reminiscing about their experiences over the years.


    "So the Zhong Shan causing such amotion in the East was you all along!" Zhao Suoxiang eximed, looking at Zhong Shan with surprise.


    The name Zhong Shan was well-known across the dynasties, recognized by knowledgeable generals everywhere. Zhao Suoxiang had heard it too but hadn''t connected it to his old friend, thinking it was just someone with the same name. After all, decades ago, Zhong Shan was only at the Xiantian stage. In Shenzhou, a ce teeming with heroes, the name Zhong Shan seemed quitemon.


    For years, Zhao Suoxiang thought it was a mere coincidence. He never imagined that the formidable Zhong Shan of the Dazhen Dynasty was actually his old friend.


    "It''s just a minor thing, not worth mentioning," Zhong Shan said with a humble smile.


    "Minor? You defeated an Emperor Extreme Realm expert. Was that really you?" Zhao Suoxiang asked, still incredulous.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded, confirming it.


    "It seems our sparring will have to be postponed," Zhao Suoxiang said with a wry smile.


    "I was just lucky, advancing my cultivation quickly," Zhong Shan said.


    "No matter the reason, your strength has reached the pinnacle of Shenzhou," Zhao Suoxiang said, sighing.


    "And you? How did you end up in the Blue me Empire?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "After we parted ways, I took my senior uncles and headed to Shenzhou. But the sects that were hunting us continued their pursuit. We fled to Shenzhou, only to find their headquarters there. We were besieged by many powerful cultivators and fled until we reached the Blue me Empire. The former emperor of the Blue me Empire saved us, and I''ve been serving here ever since to repay that kindness," Zhao Suoxiang exined.


    "Oh? With your abilities, what position do you hold in the Blue me Empire? Have you be a corpsmander?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Not at all. I am currently themander of a battalion under the Third Corps, with only five thousand soldiers. All of them are trained in the spear by me and my senior uncles," Zhao Suoxiang said with a smile.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan had a thought.


    "So these five thousand soldiers will be the foundation of your Iron Spear Sect in the future?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "Yes, the Iron Spear Sect. But it seems the sect is not suited to being a secluded mountain sect. Its true value is shown on the battlefield, and only through battle can those who practice the spear grow stronger," Zhao Suoxiang sighed.


    "The former emperor of the Blue me Empire passed away fifty years ago, didn''t he?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes," Zhao Suoxiang nodded.


    "Would you be interested in joining my Dazhen Dynasty?" Zhong Shan asked tentatively.


    Zhao Suoxiang looked at Zhong Shan with surprise, then furrowed his brow, understanding Zhong Shan''s intent. He smiled wryly and said, "I might visit the Dazhen Dynasty someday."


    This was Zhao Suoxiang''s polite refusal.


    However, Zhong Shan was persistent. Zhao Suoxiang was both an old friend and a formidable general. Zhong Shan didn''t want to face him as an enemy on the battlefield in the future.


    "After fighting for the Blue me Empire for so many years, haven''t you repaid the former emperor''s kindness? Do you n to stay in the Blue me Empire forever?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Shaking his head, Zhao Suoxiang said solemnly, "If I had met you first, I would have joined the Dazhen Dynasty. But the Blue me Empire has never betrayed me, so I will never betray them."


    Zhao Suoxiang''s firm refusal only made Zhong Shan value him more. A man of such strong principles and loyalty was rare. Zhong Shan had also done much for Zhao Suoxiang, but he would never use those deeds to demand loyalty. At least, not from someone like Zhao Suoxiang.


    "Let''s not talk about that. How did you end up here?" Zhao Suoxiang changed the subject.


    "We''re here for the Great Alchemy Gathering. My wife, Gan Baobao, is the head of the Tai Dan Sect," Zhong Shan said, pointing to Baobao in the distance.


    The mention of Tai Dan Sect surprised Zhao Suoxiang. Having lived on Heavenly Wolf Ind, he knew about the Tai Dan Sect. He nced at Zhong Shan in acknowledgment.


    "What was with that group of monkeys earlier?" Zhong Shan asked after a moment.


    "Well, that''s due to a powerful official who came to the Blue me Empire twenty years ago. You might even know him," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was intrigued.


    "Shen Qitian. He used to be with the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty butter joined the Blue me Empire. He brought the monkey n with him, making their national beast. The emperor was delighted, and Shen Qitian quickly rose to power," Zhao Suoxiang exined.


    "Shen Qitian?" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    Shen Qitian, formerly the Marquis of Qitian in the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty, had even tried to sabotage Zhong Shan in the Netherworld Heaven. And now, he had joined the Blue me Empire?


    "You do know him!" Zhao Suoxiang frowned.


    "We are enemies, not friends. What happened to him?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s stance, Zhao Suoxiang rxed a bit.


    "The monkey n, though not as prestigious as the dragon or phoenix ns, is still a formidable group in Shenzhou. As Shen Qitian''s power grew in the Blue me Empire, he eventually threatened the emperor''s authority," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "He threatened the Blue me Emperor?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "Yes, the Blue me Emperor is not as capable as the former emperor, leading to a situation where the official is stronger than the sovereign. It even seemed that Shen Qitian might be aiming for the throne," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "Shen Qitian is ruthless and ambitious. An official position in the empire might not satisfy him, and it''s very likely he would try to usurp the throne. The monkey n would undoubtedly be loyal to him," Zhong Shan said after thinking for a moment.


    "Fate has its twists. Recently, an enemy of Shen Qitian appeared out of nowhere! This enemy is incredibly powerful, relentlessly pursuing Shen Qitian. One strike from her sword left a mark stretching for miles, shocking the entire court. Shen Qitian, despite his strength, couldn''t withstand her. He fled east, seeking refuge in the Water Curtain Mountains, thergest stronghold of the monkey n, and called for aid from all monkeys," Zhao Suoxiang exined.


    "An enemy? Pursuing him?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, a woman in red. Due to the Great Alchemy Gathering, people from all over Shenzhou are here. Someone recognized her as Jian Hong, the master of the Sword God Pce. Her swordsmanship is unparalleled," Zhao Suoxiang said with admiration.


    "Jian Hong? Is she still pursuing him?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "You know her?" Zhao Suoxiang asked, surprised.


    "Not personally, but I know the story. It happened decades ago. Shen Qitian killed Xiao Wang, the Grand Marshal of the Great Light Dynasty, and Jian Hong was Xiao Wang''s wife. She''s been chasing him for decades and hasn''t given up!" Zhong Shan sighed.


    "That exins her cold and vengeful demeanor. Shen Qitian is a traitor, and the emperor won''t tolerate him. Shen Qitian is protected by powerful monkeys, so Jian Hong can deal with him. Meanwhile, we''ve been deployed to different areas to eliminate any monkey reinforcements," Zhao Suoxiang exined.


    "Is your Iron Spear Battalion only you eleven?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "No, the other members are with my senior uncles. I only brought these ten, which is enough!" Zhao Suoxiang smiled.


    "Do you know where the Water Curtain Mountain Range is?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "You want to go see it?" Zhao Suoxiang asked, surprised.


    "Of course, I want to meet Shen Qitian again and see the powerful Jian Hong," Zhong Shan said thoughtfully.


    "Since I''ve just broken through, I''ll apany you," Zhao Suoxiang offered.


    "That sounds good."


    Zhao Suoxiang gathered his subordinates, instructed them to rendezvous with the other teams, and then set off with Zhong Shan and his group, flying west.


    As they traveled, Zhao Suoxiang came to understand the terrifying strength of the tenpanions, none of whom were below his own level.


    After two days of flying, they reached the Water Curtain Mountain Range.


    Even before entering the range, they saw an endless sea of monkey corpses. Blood flowed like rivers.


    The outer mountains were mostly copsed or sliced in half. The ground was scarred with enormous sword-shaped trenches, evidence of terrifying destructive power.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan felt a sense of gravity. Though he could achieve simr destruction, Jian Hong''s unrestrained and overwhelming power was impressive.


    The Sword God Pce''s might was indeed formidable.


    They continued deeper into the mountains, passing through the devastation left by Jian Hong and encountering countless monkey and ape corpses.


    After about an hour of flying, they saw a scene in the distance.


    From afar, they could see the sky filled with boundless sword energy, reaching the clouds. The clouds were shredded, and the nearby ones were forced away, unable to approach.


    The sky was raining sword energy. The ground below was barren, and weaker monkeys were already dead. Only the strongest were struggling to survive.


    "Still no conclusion. It seems Jian Hong is still at the peak of the Emperor Extreme Realm," Zhong Shan said to Zhao Suoxiang.


    "What? Emperor Extreme Realm? Jian Hong is at the Emperor Extreme Realm? That''s impossible. There are a monkey king and an ape king there, both at the Emperor Extreme Realm. How could Jian Hong, at the Emperor Extreme Realm, fight them for a month without a result?" Zhao Suoxiang was astonished.


    Even Zhihuo, A''da, and the others found it hard to believe. Emperor Extreme Realm? How could Jian Hong be at the Emperor Extreme Realm? The immense sword rain and overwhelming power seemed like the work of someone at the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    "It''s the Emperor Extreme Realm. Jian Hong has been chasing Shen Qitian for years, with no time to cultivate further. Moreover, if Jian Hong had reached the Emperor Extreme Realm, the monkey king and ape king would have been defeated long ago. It wouldn''t have dragged on until now," Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    Jian Hong''s strength was indeed formidable and fierce!

 Chapter 559: The Terrifying Battle

    <h4>Chapter 559: The Terrifying Battle</h4>


    Jian Hong held her sword with a fierce presence, her killing intent palpable. Boundless sword energy rained down like a ster deluge, annihting everything around her. Corpses of monkeys piled up like mountains, and the violent force destroyed all the surrounding peaks, showcasing the terrifying power of her attacks.


    Jian Hong, at the peak of the Emperor Extreme Realm, was overwhelmingly powerful.


    Opposing her were two hundred-meter-tall beasts: a golden-furred giant monkey and a ck-furred giant ape. Both wielded enormous clubs, one being the Monkey King and the other the Ape King. These two were the strongest remaining members of the monkey-ape n, both at the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    The two beasts swung their massive clubs with the force of a heavenly curtain, directly challenging Jian Hong. Yet Jian Hong''s swordsmanship was extraordinary, as if possessing the power to tear the heavens. Though one strike of her sword couldn''t directly counter the clubs'' power, her skill was incredibly precise, always targeting the weakest points of the clubs. Moreover, her ck sword was chillingly powerful.


    The ck sword not only repeatedly blocked the massive strikes from the Monkey King and Ape King but also suppressed their spiritual power, preventing them from utilizing their full capabilities.


    The sky was filled with sword rain, endless sword energybined with the violent energy emitted by the Monkey King and Ape King. The entire battlefield was a chaotic storm of power. Any ordinary monkey that ventured too close was instantly shredded by the overflow of energy.


    This was a battle of true powerhouses, exhrating to watch.


    Farther away, on a mountain peak, a group of monkey generals and ape generals guarded a white-robed man. This man was none other than Shen Qitian, the supreme leader of the monkey-ape n and formerly the Marquis Qitian of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty.


    At this moment, Shen Qitian''s face was dark and cold as he watched the battle. He red at Jian Hong, this relentless woman who had been pursuing him for decades, from their time in the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty to now. She never gave up, and it wore on him.


    Thinking back, Shen Qitian regretted killing Xiao Wang, the Grand Marshal of the Great Light Dynasty. He had underestimated Xiao Wang''s background and had fortuitously encountered and defeated him with the help of his powerful monkey followers. Killing Xiao Wang had seemed like a great achievement, but it brought endless trouble afterward. Jian Hong, Xiao Wang''s wife, was incredibly formidable, able to hold her own against two Emperor Extreme Realm powerhouses.


    Shen Qitian couldn''t keep running. His luck had held out thus far, but it couldn''tst forever. Now, with the two strongest members of the monkey-ape n fighting, if they couldn''t kill Jian Hong, he would never have peace. He might even be killed by Jian Hong eventually.


    Shen Qitian''s eyes were filled with a murderous determination. He needed to eliminate Jian Hong, no matter what.


    Besides Shen Qitian, another white-robed man stood on a distant peak, surrounded by arge red barrier. Monkeys attacked the barrier relentlessly but couldn''t break through its defense. Eventually, they gave up, especially as sword rain asionally fell, injuring or killing any monkey it touched.


    This man was visibly worried, not for the powerful beasts but for Jian Hong. His eyes followed her every move, fearing for her safety.


    Zhong Shan and his group watched the battle from a distance. The sight of Jian Hong''s ferocity left them all in awe. Even Zhao Suoxiang couldn''t take his eyes off the scene, marveling at the power of such a formidable woman.


    Zhong Shan''s group had no intention of joining the fray. They were there merely to observe, and Zhong Shan had no desire to get involved in such a chaotic battlefield.


    Chapter 559: The Terrifying Battle


    In the distance, Jian Hong''s red clothes were already showing signs of wear and tear, while the Monkey King and Ape King bore numerous wounds on their bodies. Both sides disyed signs of exhaustion.


    For another day, Zhong Shan and his group watched the battle. Shen Qitian, having noticed Zhong Shan''s presence, simmered with anger but ignored them, focusing instead on dealing with Jian Hong. However, when he saw Gu Qianyou, his eyes shed with aplicated emotion.


    Finally, as Jian Hong showed more fatigue, Shen Qitian saw an opportunity. He suddenly produced a small stick, norger than a toothpick, and flicked it into the air. It shot skyward and disappeared, unnoticed by anyone who was fixated on the battle.


    Five breathster, a ck dot appeared high above, descending rapidly. It transformed into an enormous club, aiming directly at Jian Hong.


    "Mother, be careful!" the white-robed man inside the red barrier shouted in terror.


    An overwhelming force descended from the sky. The ck dot quickly became a towering pir, hurtling towards Jian Hong.


    With the Monkey King and Ape King attacking from both sides, Jian Hong had no way to dodge. She could only confront the descending club head-on.


    With a powerful sweep, she deflected the attacks from the two beasts and pointed her ck sword skyward.


    "Boom!"


    The collision unleashed a massive shockwave, scattering the monkey corpses and lifting debris into the air. Jian Hong''s mighty strike sent Shen Qitian''s sneak attack back.


    However, the two Emperor Extreme Realm beasts seized the moment. Their giant clubs struck Jian Hong, who barely had time to bring her sword back to defend.


    "Boom!"


    Deflecting the powerful blows, Jian Hong''s left arm took a direct hit, resulting in a severe fracture. Her arm hung limp and broken.


    Finally, Jian Hong was heavily injured.


    Both Shen Qitian and the two beasts showed expressions of ecstatic joy.


    "Ahhh!"


    Jian Hong suddenly let out a long howl. Her eyes turned blood red, and her cry was filled with boundless hatred, madness, and ferocity.


    In an instant, the sword energy around her turned blood red, and ayer of blood-colored mist enveloped her entire body. The Monkey King and Ape King stared at her in horror, sensing an overwhelming aura emanating from Jian Hong.


    "Supreme, quickly, run! Jian Hong is breaking through to the Emperor Extreme Realm!" the Monkey King shouted in panic.


    Emperor Extreme Realm? Jian Hong, even at the peak of the Emperor Extreme Realm, had ughtered other Emperor Extreme Realm powerhouses like they were nothing. She had fought against the Monkey King and Ape King as an Emperor Extreme Realm. Now, she was about to break through to the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    The thought of her reaching the Emperor Extreme Realm was terrifying. Even in the early stages of the Emperor Extreme Realm, she would be unstoppable for the Monkey King and Ape King. If she seeded, they had no hope of survival.


    They had to flee. The Supreme had to escape.


    Shen Qitian hesitated. Hearing the Monkey King''s urgent cry, his heart sank. Jian Hong was a terrifying foe. Seeing victory slip away just as they were about to defeat her only for her to break through was maddening.


    Jian Hong''s potential breakthrough filled Shen Qitian with dread. Running away seemed impossible. If Jian Hong survived, the Monkey King and Ape King would die, and so would he eventually. She had to be eliminated now.


    As Shen Qitian''s face twisted with frustration, Jian Hong''s blood-red aura intensified, and the air around her crackled with unprecedented energy. The decisive moment had arrived, and the stakes had never been higher.


    There was no running away!


    Seizing the moment of her breakthrough, Jian Hong''s body erupted with boundless blood-colored sword energy. Her eyes locked onto the Monkey King, and a surge of overwhelming power emanated from her, stirring up another fierce wind.


    Emperor Extreme Realm��Jian Hong had broken through by leveraging her injury, achieving a life-or-death transformation!


    From a distant peak, Jian Hong''s son watched with extreme joy on his face.


    Jian Hong, her expression unchanged, once again charged at the Ape King and Monkey King with her sword. This time, the power shemanded from heaven and earth was even greater. Even from a distance, Zhong Shan and his group could sense the small sword energies surrounding them, forcing them to retreat quickly.


    Jian Hong was about to unleash her full power.


    With her enhanced strength, the ck sword in Jian Hong''s hand also became more potent.


    Jian Hong shed at the Ape King. The Ape King swiftly blocked with its long staff, but Jian Hong''s power was now too great. Blocking her strike?


    "Boom!"


    Jian Hong''s sword shattered the Ape King''s staff, sending the Ape King flying backward.


    "Splurt!"


    The Ape King spat out a mouthful of blood, eyes filled with shock. It was impossible��how could her strength increase so dramatically? How could this be?


    But the reality was undeniable. Jian Hong''s ferocity, already evident before, had now grown even more overwhelming. The Ape King was no match for her.


    Jian Hong then turned her sword towards the Monkey King. With the Ape King''s fate as a warning, the Monkey King dodged immediately.


    "Boom!"


    Jian Hong''s powerful strike hit the ground, creating a deep, dark gorge. Such was the might of her sword.


    The endless blood-colored sword energy swirled around like a blizzard, attacking all directions, cutting down any demon monkeys unable to withstand it.


    This day was destined to be a disaster for the monkey-ape n.


    Shen Qitian had anticipated Jian Hong growing stronger but not to such an extent. This was not a mere incremental increase; she now seemed invincible even against Emperor Extreme Realm powerhouses.


    With a conflicted expression, Shen Qitian looked deeply at Jian Hong. Frustration and desperation etched across his face, he ced a finger on his forehead.


    Seeing this, almost all the monkey-ape n members immediately moved to shield Shen Qitian. The Monkey King and Ape King frantically charged at Jian Hong.


    "Shen Qitian is going to activate the ''Beast Soul Seal''? Zhong Shan, should we leave now?" Gu Qianyou suddenly asked with concern.


    "What is the Beast Soul Seal?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Gu Qianyou.


    "In his past life, Shen Qitian was the supreme leader of the monkey-ape n. Beasts can''t establish dynasties. Somehow, he used a secret method to reincarnate. By right, he should have reincarnated as a beast, but instead, he became human. The Emperor once mentioned that Shen Qitian sealed his past life''s ''Beast Soul.'' Once the Beast Soul Seal is activated, he will revert to being a beast, and his past life''s memories will fully return. Although his physical body won''t be as strong as before, he will regain his previous power. In his past life, Shen Qitian was at the Heaven Extreme Realm," Gu Qianyou exined with worry.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan''s face turned serious. The Heaven Extreme Realm was a level of power far beyond the Emperor Extreme Realm, a realm where few dared to tread. If Shen Qitian unleashed his past life''s power, the situation would be dire.


    "We need to decide quickly. If Shen Qitian returns to his past power, this battlefield will be even more dangerous," Gu Qianyou urged.


    Zhong Shan contemted for a moment, assessing the risk. "We will retreat for now. It''s better not to be caught in the crossfire."


    With that, Zhong Shan and his group began to move back, keeping a safe distance from the impending chaos. They remained vignt, ready to flee if the situation escted further.

 Chapter 560: The Fierce Battle

    <h4>Chapter 560: The Fierce Battle</h4>


    "Your Majesty, we should retreat!" Zhihuo quickly expressed his concern.


    The Heaven Extreme Realm, even in an iplete form, was an extremely terrifying existence. Shen Qitian?


    Everyone else was also worried, especially Gu Qianyou, who was well aware of the enmity between Zhong Shan and Shen Qitian. If Shen Qitian''s power exploded and he managed to kill Jian Hong, what would happen next?


    "Don''t worry!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Zhong Shan''s assured response left everyone slightly surprised. Did the emperor already have the power to face someone at the Heaven Extreme Realm? Otherwise, why was he so calm?


    "Yes!" Zhihuo responded immediately.


    Zhao Suoxiang, standing nearby, also looked at Zhong Shan curiously. Although Zhao Suoxiang had never encountered a Heaven Extreme Realm powerhouse, he knew they were monstrously powerful. Compared to his own level, there were three tiers of difference, akin to a Nascent Soul stage facing a Xiantian stage opponent. Yet, Zhong Shan showed no sign of concern. Was he confident in Jian Hong, or in himself?


    The main reason for Zhong Shan''s calmness, however, was the unchanging pink lotus at his brow, which gave him confidence that he was not in immediate danger.


    In the distance, Shen Qitian pressed his finger to his brow, and immediately a green energy emanated from him. A powerful soul pressure forced the surrounding monkeys and apes to their knees, filled with deep-rooted fear.


    "Roar!"


    Shen Qitian tilted his head back and let out a wild roar. The sound echoed to the heavens, dispersing countless sword rains. His eyes bulged with pain and his face contorted, while a swirling storm of dust enveloped the peak he stood on.


    Nearby, Jian Hong, seeing Shen Qitian''s surge in power, showed no fear. Her sword movements grew more ferocious, inflicting severe wounds on both the Monkey King and the Ape King. Her strength was overwhelming.


    If not for their loyalty to their supreme leader, the two Emperor Extreme Realm powerhouses would have fled by now, for this woman was simply too terrifying.


    As Shen Qitian''s Beast Soul Seal unlocked, his past life''s memories and cultivation poured into his current human form. The objectives and ns of his past life resurfaced, yet the release of the Beast Soul Seal also meant the end of those ns.


    "Roar!"


    From within the dust storm, Shen Qitian''s furious roar echoed again, shattering the surrounding sword energy.


    "sh!"


    Jian Hong''s sword descended upon the Ape King, slicing him in two. Her de then twisted, destroying the Ape King''s spirit.


    Turning her sword towards the Monkey King, the Monkey King, witnessing the Ape King''s gruesome death, turned pale with fear. Initially, he believed they could hold out a bit longer, but Jian Hong''s swordsmanship was too overwhelming.


    In an instant, he darted towards Shen Qitian, hoping to escape. But would Jian Hong let him go? Having just in the Ape King, the pressure on her lessened significantly, and she aimed to kill the Monkey King next.


    With a swift movement, she unleashed a massive sword strike towards the Monkey King. In a panic, the Monkey King raised his club to block, confident that from several thousand meters away, the sword energy alone wouldn''t defeat him.


    But as the Monkey King blocked, Jian Hong''s figure blurred, and she appeared right in front of him.


    Her sword pierced the Monkey King''s Purple Pce in the blink of an eye.


    With the Monkey King''s eyes wide in disbelief, her sword ran through his heart, then shed horizontally, shredding his spirit and cutting his body in half. The lifeless body was hurled towards Shen Qitian.


    At that very moment, Shen Qitian''s past life memories had fully returned. His expression grew dark and profound. Seeing Jian Hong''s fatal strike on the Monkey King, he was a step toote to save him, and the Monkey King was destroyed by Jian Hong''s sword.


    Now fully aware of his past and the present threat, Shen Qitian''s expression hardened. This battle was not over, and the real confrontation was about to begin.


    The corpsending at Shen Qitian''s feet added to the humiliation.


    "Are you Shen Qitian?" Jian Hong asked, her eyes fixed on him with a mixture of curiosity and doubt.


    Shen Qitian exuded a terrifying aura, not because of his overwhelming power but because his presence felt different from the Shen Qitian she had been hunting all these years.


    Shen Qitian appeared extremelyposed, his face dark and brooding as he red at Jian Hong. A flicker of anger burned in his eyes.


    "Three thousand years. I spent three thousand years nning that soul-sealing reincarnation, and you ruined it. Jian Hong, you''ve done well. It''s been a long time since anyone has made me this furious," Shen Qitian said coldly.


    "You are indeed Shen Qitian!" Jian Hong confirmed his identity.


    The moment she was sure of his identity, Jian Hong swung her sword, thrusting it straight at Shen Qitian. The ferocious strike filled the air with a sharp, piercing sound.


    Her sword aimed directly at Shen Qitian, embodying all her towering hatred, intending to kill him with one blow.


    "Boom!"


    Jian Hong''s strike was met with a powerful counter from Shen Qitian''s long staff, creating ripples in the space around them. Shen Qitian''s staff skillfully deflected Jian Hong''s attack.


    Shen Qitian then swung his staff in a wide arc, bringing it down on Jian Hong with immense force. The staff grew enormously, transforming into a colossal weapon tens of thousands of feet long, bearing down on Jian Hong.


    The speed and force of the strike were so overwhelming that even the mighty Jian Hong found it unavoidable. She had no choice but to meet it with her full strength.


    "Boom!"


    The sh of sword and staff was the collision of two formidable warriors. Shen Qitian, a supreme being from his past life with Heaven Extreme Realm cultivation, fought with ruthless ferocity. Jian Hong, known for her previous disys of overwhelming power, found herself outmatched.


    Though Shen Qitian had not regained his full past-life strength, his purple-gold dragon-patterned staff unleashed its full might. The staff descended like a force of nature, creating a violet streak in the sky as it struck Jian Hong''s ck sword.


    Jian Hong''s sword energy shattered on impact. The sheer power of Shen Qitian''s strike was beyond what the newly advanced Emperor Extreme Realm Jian Hong could withstand, especially with her previous injuries and her unhealed left arm.


    "Boom!"


    Jian Hong was smashed into the ground, creating a deep crater as she plunged below the surface.


    The purple-gold dragon-patterned staff followed through, smashing into the ground with devastating force.


    "Boom!"


    The earth shook, sending tremors through the surrounding space. A deep chasm, a thousand feet deep, marked the impact of Shen Qitian''s strike.


    The massive crater not only demonstrated Shen Qitian''s formidable strength but also signaled Jian Hong''s peril. Even if she managed to evade the direct blow underground, the seismic force would have inflicted severe damage on her.


    Shen Qitian smirked coldly, lifting his enormous staff.


    As he raised his staff, the ground near him erupted. A red figure burst forth, Jian Hong. Her experience and instincts were unparalleled. She seized the moment of Shen Qitian''s withdrawal tounch a counterattack. Her clothes were in tatters, her body covered in blood, disying a wild, desperate resolve. She appeared ready to fight Shen Qitian to the death.


    Her eyes zed with madness, her every move dripping with the intent to kill. Despite her injuries, Jian Hong''s fierce spirit remained unbroken, ready to sh once more with her nemesis.


    "How dare you!" Shen Qitian roared in fury.


    "sh!"


    Jian Hong''s sword had already cut deeply into Shen Qitian''s shoulder, aiming to sever it. Shen Qitian quickly dodged, but a significant amount of blood still sprayed from his wound. The sword strike had its effect, but it did not sever Shen Qitian. Jian Hong, however, paid the ultimate price for her attack.


    Shen Qitian''s staff appeared suddenly before Jian Hong.


    "Boom!"


    The purple-gold dragon-patterned staff extended, smashing through Jian Hong''s heart and destroying her Purple Pce. Her body was flung far away, directly towards the direction where Zhong Shan and his group stood.


    "Mother!" Jian Hong''s son screamed in terror, rushing forward.


    Perhaps out of sheer anger, Shen Qitian, despite being a Heaven Extreme Realm powerhouse, was wounded by this woman. His physical body was fragile, unable to withstand such injuries. The purple-gold dragon-patterned staff extended even further, delivering a devastating blow to Jian Hong. Blood sprayed from her body, and the severe injuries were clearly fatal.


    Perhaps subconsciously, Shen Qitian intended to deal with Zhong Shan next, sending Jian Hong''s gravely injured body flying in Zhong Shan''s direction.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold as Shen Qitian retracted his staff, and Jian Hong''s body was hurled towards them.


    Reaching out, Zhong Shan caught Jian Hong''s broken body.


    At this moment, Jian Hong looked extremely pitiful. Her left arm was crippled, her body covered in countless wounds, blood gushing out, and her clothes were tattered. Her hair was disheveled and matted with blood, her heart shattered, her Purple Pce destroyed, and her spirit severely damaged. She was doomed.


    The proud Sword God Pce''s master had met such a tragic end.


    Yet, despite her grievous injuries, Jian Hong showed no fear. Instead, a faint, sorrowful smile appeared on her face, and a tear glistened as it rolled down her cheek.


    She had failed to avenge Xiao Wang, but perhaps she could now join him in death.


    Not wanting Jian Hong''s soul to dissipate, Zhong Shan immediately infused three drops of soul-consolidating liquid into her body.


    "Mother!" Her son arrived, embracing Jian Hong desperately.


    Meanwhile, Shen Qitian, after a burst of radiant light, had fully healed his injuries. Stepping forward, he advanced towards Zhong Shan.


    The tension among Zhong Shan''s group was palpable, but Zhong Shan waved them off, halting their movements.


    Zhong Shan stepped forward, standing face to face with Shen Qitian across the distance.


    "Shen Qitian," Zhong Shan called out, his voice cold and unwavering.


    "You''vee far, Zhong Shan. You''ve interfered in my ns for thest time," Shen Qitian said, his voice dripping with malice.


    "Do you think you can win this time?" Zhong Shan replied calmly, his eyes sharp and focused.


    Shen Qitian''s expression darkened further. "I am not the same as before. Today, I will end you and all your meddling."


    "You underestimate the power of vengeance and determination," Zhong Shan said, his voice steady and resolute.


    With that, the stage was set for an imminent sh between the two formidable figures. The air was thick with tension, and the impending battle promised to be nothing short of cataclysmic.

 Chapter 561: Zhong Shan vs. Shen Qitian

    <h4>Chapter 561: Zhong Shan vs. Shen Qitian</h4>


    Zhong Shan stepped forward, facing Shen Qitian from a distance. Their eyes met, each radiating a cold, fierce light.


    With Zhong Shan''s personality, he had never thought much of Shen Qitian as an opponent. Although they had shed many times before, Zhong Shan had never truly regarded Shen Qitian as worthy of his attention. In Zhong Shan''s own words, "He doesn''t deserve it." Yet, one couldn''t deny Shen Qitian''s extraordinary luck. From a dull, foolish youth, he had risen to be a figure of great intelligence, ruthlessness, and immense power, now a royal kin with vast influence. Each encounter brought new surprises to Zhong Shan, and this time was no different��Shen Qitian had directly advanced to the Heavenly Extreme Realm.


    Heavenly Extreme Realm? The supreme of the Monkey Ape n, Shen Qitian? So what? Whether he acknowledged it or not, to Zhong Shan, power didn''t change his disdain. This wasn''t ignorance; it was a natural arrogance, a sense of superiority ingrained in Zhong Shan''s very bones.


    Zhao Suoxiang, despite his modest cultivation and low standing in the Divine State, was someone Zhong Shan treated as a brother. This was because Zhao Suoxiang matched Zhong Shan''s temperament and had a heroic spirit and unwavering loyalty that Zhong Shan valued. Such qualities weren''t determined by cultivation alone.


    As for Shen Qitian, once Zhong Shan deemed someone unworthy, that judgment would never change. Zhong Shan strode forward, unafraid.


    Shen Qitian, on the other hand, gazed deeply at Zhong Shan. Since the Beast Soul Seal had been lifted, the thoughts and personality of his past life''s supreme being had be dominant, while the human Shen Qitian''s memories had been assimted by the old Shen Qitian. His eyes were filled with a chilling coldness. Zhong Shan seemed like a fated adversary sent by the heavens. From the moment they met, Shen Qitian''s luck had turned for the worse, constantly thwarted and having his ns disrupted. This grudge had to be settled!


    Shen Qitian was no longer the same as before. The cunning and stratagems of his past life had returned. He didn''t underestimate Zhong Shan, who had risen to prominence in the Divine State within a few decades, founded the renowned Dazhen Dynasty, and even made a pact with Emperor Xuan Shaz. Though Shen Qitian wanted Zhong Shan dead, he approached with caution.


    "Shen Qitian? Are you looking for trouble with me again?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Shen Qitian''s eyes turned cold. He didn''t attack immediately but tested the waters. With a stomp of his foot, a swirling mass of dark clouds appeared above him. The sky above Shen Qitian darkened suddenly.


    In all directions, the sky was clear and the sun was shining brightly, but above Shen Qitian, ck clouds gathered, creating an oppressive atmosphere.


    This was the power of the Heavenly Extreme Realm, the ability to create one''s own ''Heaven.'' Upon reaching this realm, one could influence the surroundings, creating a domain under their control. This was the strongest aspect of the Heavenly Extreme Realm.


    Under the pressure of this ''Heaven,'' not only could one test their opponent, but they could also impose a powerful, intimidating aura, even humiliating their opponent. Shen Qitian''s ''Heaven'' advanced towards Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan responded with a cold smile and a stomp of his own foot.


    "Booming thunder rolled across the sky above Zhong Shan. Dark clouds filled the heavens, and countless bolts of lightning shed, creating an overwhelming pressure. As far as the eye could see, within ten thousand miles, the sky was filled with endless thunderclouds, with countless powerful purple lightning bolts flickering in and out. The surrounding area resonated with the sound of thunder.


    This thundercloud sky formed a domain that stood in opposition to Shen Qitian''s ''Heaven.''


    The powerful thunderclouds shed with Shen Qitian''s dark clouds, producing a crackling noise.


    "You have ''Heaven'' as well?" Shen Qitian eximed in surprise.


    Despite his cunning, Shen Qitian had never expected Zhong Shan to be this formidable. Zhong Shan''s cultivation was clearly only at the Emperor Extreme Realm, yet he possessed ''Heaven,'' a power only attainable by those in the Heavenly Extreme Realm. This was impossible for someone at Zhong Shan''s level!


    "That''s not right, this is ''Heavenly Thunder Transformation,'' a technique from the Divine Pce of Creation!" Shen Qitian eximed, finally realizing what he was up against.


    Heavenly Thunder Transformation, the very technique granted to Zhong Shan by Xuan Yuan, allowed him to simte the power of ''Heaven.'' The higher the cultivation, the deeper the understanding of this powerful technique.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    In the sky, the boundless thunderclouds shed with Shen Qitian''s ''Heaven,'' resembling a probing confrontation between two experts of the Heavenly Extreme Realm.


    Understanding Zhong Shan''s technique eased the tension in Shen Qitian''s eyes, reced by a cold calction. Looking at the Emperor Extreme Realm Zhong Shan, Shen Qitian flipped his hand, producing a blue imperial seal.


    "This was originally prepared as my own ''Heavenly Imperial Seal,'' but my entire n was ruined by you. I cannot establish my dynasty, but this remains a nine-grade treasure. To die under a nine-grade treasure is a great honor for you!" Shen Qitian dered coldly.


    "Honor? Who lives and who dies is yet to be determined!" Zhong Shan retorted.


    With a flick of his hand, Zhong Shan produced his own ''Fangtian Jade Seal'' in his palm.


    "Your seal is a Heavenly Imperial Seal? But you''re not the ruler of a dynasty. I am the ruler of the Great Zhen Dynasty, and this is the Great Zhen Imperial Seal," Zhong Shan stated.


    "Hahaha, an Imperial Seal? You think you can use an ''Imperial Seal'' to sh with my ''Heavenly Imperial Seal''?" Shen Qitianughed, his eyes full of mockery.


    An Imperial Seal? How ridiculous. At most, an Imperial Seal could be a seven-grade treasure. To sh with a Heavenly Imperial Seal was like an egg hitting a rock.


    Mockingughter aside, a cold glint shed in Shen Qitian''s eyes. He tossed the Heavenly Imperial Seal into the air, transforming it into a colossal seal the size of a mountain, pressing down towards Zhong Shan.


    In the hands of a Heavenly Extreme Realm expert, the full potential of the seal was unleashed. The vast power of the Heavenly Imperial Seal bore down, shaking the space below as if to annihte everything in its path.


    For the first time, everyone experienced the might of the Heavenly Imperial Seal up close.


    Zhong Shan remained unfazed. He threw his Fangtian Jade Seal, which rapidly expanded to meet the Heavenly Imperial Seal, transforming into a colossal seal a fraction of its size but with an equally formidable aura.


    The two seals, sensing each other from afar, seemed to provoke one another. The Heavenly Imperial Seal suddenly emitted a radiant blue light, its powerful aura pressing towards the Fangtian Jade Seal, which responded with a strong golden light.


    "Boom!"


    The two seals shed in the sky, producing an earth-shattering collision.


    If it had been any other Imperial Seal, it would have shattered on impact, given the difference in grades. However, after the collision, space trembled, and amidst the radiant light, both seals were knocked back, hovering distantly.


    The Fangtian Jade Seal continued to shine brightly, full of fighting spirit, while the blue light of the Heavenly Imperial Seal dimmed slightly, a small crack appearing at one corner.


    "How can this be? Is that an Imperial Seal?" Shen Qitian was bewildered. How could his Heavenly Imperial Seal not overpower the Imperial Seal?


    That strike had the full force of a Heavenly Extreme Realm''s strongest blow, yet the Heavenly Imperial Seal couldn''t defeat the Imperial Seal? This was impossible.


    "Hahaha, old monkey, let me enlighten you. An Imperial Seal is not merely a treasure; it is the cornerstone of a dynasty''s fate. Its power is not just that of a treasure but the sh of a dynasty''s fate. Without a dynasty to support you, how can you withstand my seal? A Heavenly Imperial Seal? Without a heavenly dynasty, it is merely a nine-grade treasure. My seal, however, carries the fate of my dynasty! As a mere monkey, you can neverprehend the true essence of a dynasty''s fate," Zhong Shan mocked.


    At the same time, the Fangtian Jade Seal emitted a golden light ten times stronger than before, pressing down once more towards the Heavenly Imperial Seal.


    "Impossible! Even so, your seal can''t be that resilient!" Shen Qitian shouted in disbelief, swinging his hand tomand the Heavenly Imperial Seal to collide with Zhong Shan''s once more.


    "Suppress!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    The two seals shed again with a thunderous boom that echoed through the sky. The collision was enveloped in endless golden light, shaking the surrounding space and creating ripples that tore apart the ground below.


    "Impossible! How can your seal be so resilient?" Shen Qitian cried out in shock.


    Zhong Shan summoned the Fangtian Jade Seal back to him. At the point of collision, the Heavenly Imperial Seal had been shattered, dissolving into a cloud of fragments.


    The Fangtian Jade Seal was extraordinarily strong. Even the Heavenly Imperial Seal couldn''t withstand its might. The key was in the unparalleled quality of the Fangtian Jade Seal, forged from the most precious jade in the world and tempered with the power of the stars during the creation of the universe by the ancient god Tong Kaitian. Its strength was unmatched by any other jade in the world.


    Of course, Zhong Shan wasn''t about to share these details with Shen Qitian.


    "Old monkey, you are no match for me. You weren''t before, you aren''t now, and you never will be!" Zhong Shan taunted.


    If another Emperor Extreme Realm cultivator had tried to provoke Shen Qitian, he wouldn''t have cared. But Zhong Shan was different. From the moment they met, Zhong Shan had overshadowed him in every aspect except cultivation, which was an unspoken realm of difference. Zhong Shan wasn''t bragging; he was stating an undeniable truth, which was a profound insult.


    Fury ignited in Shen Qitian''s eyes as he drew out the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff.


    In the past, the staff had been ineffective in the Netherworld. Shen Qitian had refrained from using it since then, feeling a vague sense of caution. But now, there was no holding back.


    Seeing Shen Qitian take out the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff again, Zhong Shan felt a surge of satisfaction. He had prolonged this encounter just to see this staff, nning to exploit it to the fullest. Zhong Shan knew this staff was more than just a nine-grade treasure. Unlike typical nine-grade treasures, which required infusions of magic power to change size, this staff responded solely to Shen Qitian''s thoughts. This indicated that the staff was linked to Shen Qitian''s core consciousness.


    "Finally bringing out your ace, old monkey?" Zhong Shan muttered to himself, ready to turn the tide in this confrontation.

 Chapter 562: The Fierce Power of the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox

    <h4>Chapter 562: The Fierce Power of the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox</h4>


    Typically, only those who have reached the Heavenly Extreme Realm can condense their root consciousness into a tangible form, allowing it to be extracted from the body. The root consciousness is incredibly versatile and mystical, capable of bing amon magical weapon or a treasure of spiritual consciousness. Despite the difficulty of refining it, every cultivator knows the legend that the root consciousness holds great significance upon achieving immortality, possessing unparalleled divine efficacy that ordinary magical weapons can never rival.


    Hence, almost all supreme cultivators strive to condense their root consciousness, symbolizing their determination to achieve immortality.


    The Purple-Gold Dragon Staff is Shen Qitian''s root consciousness. It can change size at will, growing asrge as a mountain or bing as light as a feather. After Shen Qitian''s reincarnation, his treasures scattered across the world, imed by various powerful beings. However, the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff remains untouchable by others. With a mere gesture, it returns to Shen Qitian''s hand upon his reincarnation.


    With a wave of his hand, Shen Qitian summoned the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff into his palm.


    "Give it your all, or you won''t have another chance!" Shen Qitian swung the staff, causing a tempest to rise in the sky.


    Shen Qitian red coldly at Zhong Shan, a sense of unease creeping over him.


    Unease? Ridiculous. As a Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivator, even if his physical body was still weak, his realm remained superior. As long as he didn''t engage in closebat with someone of the Emperor Extreme Realm or higher, no one was his match.


    Yet, this sense of unease was overwhelming. What was going on?


    Zhong Shan again? Shen Qitian intended to provoke Zhong Shan into making a move so he could strike first.


    "Hah! Is this the Heavenly Extreme Realm?" Zhong Shan taunted recklessly.


    "Hmph!" Angered by Zhong Shan''s mockery, Shen Qitian''s eyes red with rage.


    Disregarding any hidden tactics Zhong Shan might have, Shen Qitian swung his staff at him with all his might.


    The Purple-Gold Dragon Staff expanded to ten thousand feet, descending like a purple sky curtain, akin to a flood bursting through a dam, crashing down on Zhong Shan.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan also made his move.


    Behind Zhong Shan, eight enormous tails appeared, grand and majestic. Each tail bore a vibrant hue, swaying like those of a colossal fox, exuding an enchanting aura.


    The tails were eerily colored, each one capable of stirring a distinct desire within onlookers, causing their hearts to tremble. The eight tails, with their eight colors, evoked eight different desires.


    In the instant the tails appeared, Shen Qitian felt a momentary distraction, his pupils dting.


    He quickly regained hisposure, but the ominous feeling intensified.


    In that brief moment, one of the massive tails coiled around the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff, tightening and pulling. Shen Qitian felt a jolt in his hand, nearly losing his grip.


    A sense of dread gripped Shen Qitian''s heart.


    "Eek~~~"


    A joyous sound echoed, and Shen Qitian''s brow furrowed. What was that?


    In that brief moment, the creature with the eight tails revealed its full form.


    A bizarre creature with an incredibly peculiar shape emerged. Its eight massive tails wrapped around the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff. It had a small head and no body, just an odd entity.


    Shen Qitian had never seen such a creature. What was this thing?


    As Shen Qitian pondered, the creature''s head reached the end of the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff and performed an astonishing action.


    It opened its mouth wide and bit down on the staff.


    The bite covered at most a hundred feet, while the staff was ten thousand feet long. Biting the staff? Suicidal!


    Shen Qitian couldn''t understand where this creature came from, nor did he care. With a surge of power, he expanded the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff tenfold, intending to force the creature''s mouth apart.


    But was this possible?


    This was Zhong Shan''s root consciousness, the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox, a true glutton! Even the mythical Taotie couldn''t match the eating prowess of the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox.


    Would erging it burst the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox? Its mouth was like rubber, and it could growrger itself.


    As Shen Qitian intensified his efforts, the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox bit down harder, its form stretching forward, leaping three thousand feet. Its bizarre head extended an incredible distance.


    Seeing the grotesque appearance of the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox, Shen Qitian''s face twitched. What the hell was this thing?


    "Crack!"


    A crisp breaking sound echoed. Shen Qitian felt his powerful beast soul tremble, a heart-wrenching sensation surging within him.


    Far away, seven thousand feet away, the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox finally released the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff, its head quickly returning to its original shape.


    As if nothing had happened, but had nothing truly urred?


    Shen Qitian tragically discovered a huge bite mark on the other end of the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff. The once perfect staff had a chunk bitten off, consumed by the creature before him.


    Staring nkly at the distant Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox, what kind of monster was this? It bit off a piece of the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff? And ate it? Shen Qitian didn''t want to believe it. He knew how sturdy the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff was, but so what? The staff was his root consciousness, and its destruction affected him deeply, shattering his spirit. What kind of monster was this?


    As Shen Qitian stood in disbelief, the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox opened its mouth again, preparing to bite.


    Seeing the gaping maw of the creature, Shen Qitian shivered, quickly retracting the remaining half of the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff.


    Did it really think the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff was a chocte bar?


    "Crunch!"


    Shen Qitian''s actions were still a bit slow. As he pulled back the remaining staff, anotherrge chunk was bitten off, leaving only a third.


    Holding the remaining piece of the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff, Shen Qitian felt like crying without tears.


    The Heavenly Imperial Seal was an external treasure, and Shen Qitian didn''t care much about it. But the Purple-Gold Dragon Staff was painstakingly refined from his root consciousness, and now it was reduced to just a half?


    Looking up into the distance.


    The Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox floated in the air, its glittering eyes fixed on the remaining ''chocte bar'' in Shen Qitian''s hand. Its wide mouth grinned, scaring Shen Qitian into quickly putting away the remaining staff.


    What kind of monster was this, so against the heavens?


    ring hatefully at Zhong Shan in the distance, Shen Qitian was certain Zhong Shan did it on purpose. He had been guiding Shen Qitian, provoking him into attacking with full force, determined to kill Zhong Shan. Only when Shen Qitian was fullymitted did Zhong Shan summon this strange creature. It had to be deliberate, it had to be!


    Of course, Shen Qitian never considered that this was actually Zhong Shan''s root consciousness, not an ally.


    Looking at Zhong Shan with deep hatred, Shen Qitian was furious. With a wave of his hand, a massive pressure surged towards Zhong Shan. Even if Zhong Shan could dodge, those behind him would be crushed to death.


    Shen Qitian was determined to finish off Zhong Shan this time. Even if he couldn''t kill him, he would make sure to ughter his loved ones right in front of him.


    A powerful oppressive force surged forth, making everyone feel as if they were suffocating.


    At that moment, the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox''s eight enormous tails began to dance wildly in the sky, leaving behind bizarre and mesmerizing trails.


    Shen Qitian''s expression wasplicated as he looked at the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox. In just a moment, the powerful pressure he unleashed waspletely disrupted by the creature''s eight tails.


    With rage in his eyes, Shen Qitian realized that no matter what spell he cast, this monster could scatter it with its tails. No matter what treasure he used, this monster could bite through it.


    To destroy it, he would need to shatter it with overwhelming force in one go.


    With a fierce stomp, Shen Qitian leaped into the air, reaching out to strike the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox with a powerful palm attack.


    The Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox opened its mouth wide, seemingly ready to swallow Shen Qitian whole.


    Shen Qitian didn''t believe that the creature could consume him. After all, if it could wander in this realm, its cultivation level couldn''t have reached the Immortal Realm. A monster that hadn''t reached the Immortal Realm wanting to eat him? Ridiculous.


    His palm strike carried a destructive force, aiming to obliterate the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox.


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly. Indeed, the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox hadn''t reached the Immortal Realm, but so what? It wasn''t a living being; it was his root consciousness. The Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox was bing stronger and stronger. It feared not strength but weakness. Even immortals would be devoured by it without hesitation.


    A fierce gleam shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    Just as Shen Qitian''s strike was about to connect with the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox, he suddenly halted, panic shing in his eyes. He nced towards the southwest, his figure blurring as he disappeared, fleeing in haste.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan''s heart tightened. With a gesture, the Eight-Tailed Heavenly Fox turned into a stream of light and entered Zhong Shan''s body.


    Southwest? What could make Shen Qitian so panic-stricken?


    Zhong Shan remained cautiously on guard.


    Suddenly, an overwhelming aura pressed down, even causing Zhong Shan''s imitation ''Heaven'' aura of Tian Lei Transformation to falter. A mighty force scattered the thunderclouds in the sky.


    In an instant, a man in a yellow robe appeared before everyone.


    The man had a prominent forehead bone, a face full of arrogance, and carried a huge gourd on his back. His eyes sparkled like thunder springs, and his aura was as imposing as the heavens and earth. A fierce, dominating presence radiated from him, blowing everything around him outward.


    This was the Lord of the Longevity Realm, the Crow Dao Lord!


    He was also in the Heavenly Extreme Realm? Zhong Shan was utterly shocked. The Crow Dao Lord''s presence was overwhelming. Facing him, Zhong Shan felt as if he couldn''t move. While he could still resist Shen Qitian, against the Crow Dao Lord, Zhong Shan knew he stood no chance.


    The Crow Dao Lord exuded a fierce and dominant aura, reminiscent of the fire qilin Zhong Shan encountered in theherworld, an aura that felt as though it belonged to an immortal.

 Chapter 563: The Descendant of an Old Acquaintance

    <h4>Chapter 563: The Descendant of an Old Acquaintance</h4>


    The powerful Crow Dao Lord exuded such an overwhelming aura that it seemed to freeze the space around him, rendering everyone immobile. He appeared to pay no heed to the people around him, instead scanning the surroundings with a slight frown.


    "Shen Qitian, you sure run fast!" The Crow Dao Lord sneered.


    Shen Qitian had fled. A Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivator escaping was not something just anyone could track down. At least for now, the Crow Dao Lord had no idea where Shen Qitian had gone.


    Turning his head, the Crow Dao Lord finally looked at Zhong Shan.


    "It''s you!" The Crow Dao Lord''s eyes narrowed slightly, showing a hint of surprise.


    "Zhong Shan of Great Zheng, at your service, Crow Dao Lord," Zhong Shan greeted with a slight bow.


    "Zhong Shan? Why did Emperor Xuan Sha choose you?" The Crow Dao Lord''s gaze bore into Zhong Shan, a mix of doubt and coldness in his eyes.


    "I saved someone dear to Emperor Xuan Sha," Zhong Shan replied sinctly.


    The Crow Dao Lord was momentarily taken aback, then scrutinized Zhong Shan intensely. In his eyes, the notion of ''dear ones'' was likely a facade. To Emperor Xuan Sha, apart from himself, the most important thing was the prosperity of the wolf n. If the n''s future was entrusted to this man, he must have some extraordinary qualities.


    Under the Crow Dao Lord''s piercing gaze, Zhong Shan felt ufortable, but he stood his ground, meeting the stare honestly. After a tense moment, the Crow Dao Lord said nothing more.


    In the vastnd of Shenzhou, few were deemed strong enough to earn the Crow Dao Lord''s respect, and Emperor Xuan Sha was one of them.


    The Crow Dao Lord then nced at the people behind Zhong Shan, a look of disdain flickering in his eyes, before disappearing from sight in a blur.


    With the Crow Dao Lord gone, Zhong Shan exhaled deeply. The Crow Dao Lord was terrifying, far stronger than Shen Qitian. Yet, hispanions showed no signs of defeat in their eyes. Zhao Suoxiang, Tian Ling''er, Gan Baobao, and Gu Qianyou were filled with fighting spirit, an unyielding resolve.


    "Zhao Suoxiang of the Blue me Empire, greetings to the Red Smoke Emperor!" Zhao Suoxiang addressed Jian Hong''s son.


    Emperor? Jian Hong''s son was an emperor?


    Zhong Shan looked curiously at the white-d man and the tragic, unrecognizable corpse of Jian Hong. The white-d man, tears streaming down his face, cradled Jian Hong''s body, crying incessantly.


    Thanks to Zhong Shan''s soul-condensing elixir, Jian Hong''s spirit began to materialize after death.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan summoned a pce that enveloped everyone. After all, it was broad daylight, and Jian Hong''s spirit couldn''t be exposed to the scorching sun.


    "Mother!" the white-d man wept bitterly.


    Gradually, Jian Hong''s spirit emerged, looking at Zhong Shan, recognizing that she owed her existence as a spirit to him.


    "Thank you," Jian Hong''s spirit said respectfully, bowing to Zhong Shan.


    "I had a deep spiritual connection with Xiao Wang, though we never met on the battlefield. He met with misfortune before that could happen," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "I can see the gates of the underworld. A force is pulling me in. Regardless, thank you for your kindness," Jian Hong said.


    "Mother, you can''t die!" the white-d man continued to wail.


    "Die? I died the moment your father did. If not for revenge, I would have followed him long ago. Now, I can finally see him again," Jian Hong said sadly.


    "Xiao Wang was an extraordinary man. I believe that even in death, he would be among the rare few who could transform into a spirit and enter the underworld," Zhong Shan said thoughtfully.


    "Really?" Jian Hong''s spirit showed a trace of joy on her face.


    "Absolutely!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "Thank you, my benefactor. May I know your name? I may not be able to repay your kindness in this life, but in the next, I, Jian Hong, will surely repay your great favor," Jian Hong said sincerely.


    "Perhaps we will meet again soon. I am Zhong Shan of the Great Zheng Dynasty," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "The Great Zheng Dynasty, Zhong Shan!" Jian Hong nodded deeply and bowed respectfully to Zhong Shan once more.


    "Mother, if you leave, what will happen to me?" the white-d man wept.


    "Xiao Zhongxing, remember, you are the son of Xiao Wang. You must not cry and whine. You disgrace your father by doing so," Jian Hong said sternly, ring at the white-d man.


    "Yes, yes, I won''t cry!" Xiao Zhongxing quickly wiped his tears, but his eyes couldn''t stop shedding tears.


    "My benefactor, before I depart, I have one more request," Jian Hong said, bowing to Zhong Shan again.


    "Speak," Zhong Shan said immediately.


    "This is my son with Xiao Wang. His aptitude is dull. I fear that after I leave, he may encounter great danger. I do not ask for your protection, but if circumstances permit, please assist him when possible. The Xuan Iron Cold Sword beside my corpse is a ninth-grade treasure and I am willing to offer it to you," Jian Hong''s spirit pointed to the ck sword beside her body.


    "I promise you. As for this sword, it belongs to your Jian Shen Pce. Let Xiao Zhongxing keep it," Zhong Shan agreed.


    Jian Hong looked at Zhong Shan in surprise, then bowed deeply once more, her heart filled with gratitude.


    Turning to Xiao Zhongxing, a cold expression appeared on Jian Hong''s face.


    "Zhongxing," Jian Hong called.


    "Mother!" Xiao Zhongxing cried, holding back his sorrow.


    "Do not touch my corpse, nor clean its wounds. ce it in a coffin just as it is and send it to him. See if he will care!" Jian Hong said coldly.


    "Mother, you mean!" Xiao Zhongxing''s eyes shed withplexity.


    "He can reincarnate and ignore me? Send it to him just like this. The body is of no use to me now. You don''t need to think about burial. Just throw it at him. If he doesn''t care, leave it with him!" Jian Hong said firmly.


    "Yes!" Xiao Zhongxing''s nose tingled, but he could only nod in agreement.


    At that moment, as if a force was pulling her, Jian Hong''s spirit wavered and disappeared.


    "Mother����������������������������������������������������" Xiao Zhongxing cried out in agony, forgetting Jian Hong''s words, and wept for nearly half an hour.


    "Xiao Zhongxing, the dead cannot be brought back to life. You must restrain your grief," Zhong Shan said to Xiao Zhongxing.


    Xiao Zhongxing wiped his tears, looked at Zhong Shan, and bowed deeply. "Thank you, benefactor. I, Xiao Zhongxing, will remember your great kindness forever!"


    "Enough, you should gather your mother''s body. Although she doesn''t care about it, as her son, you should ensure she has a proper afterlife," Zhong Shan said.


    "No!" Xiao Zhongxing stubbornly shook his head.


    "Huh?"


    "Shen Qitian killed my parents. This hatred is irreconcble. He must die," Xiao Zhongxing said coldly.


    "But you..." Zhong Shan began to express his concern.


    "Benefactor, don''t worry. My mother had already thought of a way. I certainly cannot kill Shen Qitian, but there is someone who can. My mother wanted me to send her corpse to him. I believe that when he sees my mother''s body, he will not remain indifferent," Xiao Zhongxing said coldly.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    Who? Did Jian Hong have some powerful backer?


    "Since you ask, benefactor, I won''t keep it from you. It''s my grandfather, my mother''s father. However, my grandfather has been reincarnated and does not wish to acknowledge past rtionships or karmic ties. But now that my mother has died so tragically, his daughter has died so miserably, he surely won''t remain indifferent," Xiao Zhongxing said solemnly.


    "Reincarnated to cultivate again? Living two lives, Jian Hong''s father?" Zhong Shan had a sudden, strange thought.


    "My grandfather is the master of Youming Heaven, Jian Ao!" Xiao Zhongxing revealed.


    Jian Ao? Zhong Shan''s eyes widened. Although he had already guessed as much, hearing Xiao Zhongxing confirm it still left him shocked. Jian Hong was Jian Ao''s daughter?


    Indeed, both of them bore the surname Jian and were powerful sword cultivators. Jian Ao''s daughter, as long as she wasn''tcking in talent, would inevitably inherit Jian Ao''s wild and rampant swordsmanship.


    So Jian Hong was the descendant of an old acquaintance.


    Meanwhile, Xiao Zhongxing took out arge piece of jade, using Jian Hong''s sword to carve out a giant coffin. He ced the horribly mutted corpse of Jian Hong into the coffin, wiping the tears from his eyes.


    "Benefactor, I will now head to Youming Heaven!" Xiao Zhongxing bowed to Zhong Shan again.


    "Hmm, be careful on your journey," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" Xiao Zhongxing nodded, and with a step, he flew towards Youming Heaven with the giant coffin.


    Everyone could imagine the fury Jian Ao would feel upon seeing his daughter''s mutted corpse in that coffin. At the very least, it was certain that Shen Qitian''s troubles were far from over.


    A moment of silent sympathy for Shen Qitian, this man of great luck and tragedy!


    "I didn''t expect the emperor of the Red Smoke Dynasty to be Jian Hong''s son," Zhao Suoxiang remarked.


    "You just mentioned the Red Smoke Dynasty. Is Xiao Zhongxing the emperor of the Red Smoke Dynasty?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    "Yes, it''s just west of the Blue me Empire, closer to the Taishou Heavenly Dynasty," Zhao Suoxiang exined.


    "Red Smoke... like Jian Hong? This isn''t a dynasty founded by Xiao Zhongxing, but by Xiao Wang. Xiao Wang was very much like you, establishing his own dynasty while also serving in a powerful dynasty to learn. However, he didn''t have your courage to study in a heavenly dynasty, nor your luck. When he entered the heavenly dynasty, he was immediately made a fifth-grade official!" Gu Qianyou suddenly spoke up.


    "Indeed, no wonder we could trace his grandson but not his son. I didn''t expect him to be hiding here all along, waiting for Xiao Wang''s orders, governing the dynasty in his stead. It''s true, entrusting the dynasty to his own son is the safest option. Xiao Wang, truly a talent. I wonder if we will meet him again," Zhong Shan said with deep admiration.


    "Xiao Wang? Is he really as amazing as you say?" Zhao Suoxiang asked Zhong Shan.


    "You''ve spent years in the west of Shenzhou and don''t know much about the east. But I can tell you, Xiao Wang is at least a talent worthy of being an emperor of a dynasty," Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    "A talent worthy of being an emperor of a dynasty!" Zhao Suoxiang eximed, eyes filled with astonishment. He knew what kind of person could be described as such. The term "great talent" would be an understatement.


    "Yes, now that matters here are settled, we should get going. Shen Qitian has fled, the Monkey King and Ape King have been in. This should satisfy the Blue me Emperor," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Of course,e, let me lead the way to the capital!" Zhao Suoxiang said cheerfully.

 Chapter 564: Great Qin, Xu Fu

    <h4>Chapter 564: Great Qin, Xu Fu</h4>


    With Zhao Suoxiang leading the way, Zhong Shan had no objections. They traveled north, engaging in lively conversations along the way. They often burst intoughter, enjoying their discussions so much that they unintentionally neglected the others. The three women, especially Tian Ling''er, felt a pang of jealousy. Normally, it was the three of them who apanied Zhong Shan in conversations. Now, with Zhao Suoxiang joining in, Tian Ling''er felt as if her special ce had been usurped. Before, Zhong Shan would make sure to bnce his attention among them, but now the women could hardly get a word in.


    Tian Ling''er pouted in frustration, and while Bao''er and Gu Qianyou shared her sentiments, they handled it differently. Bao''er trusted Zhong Shan''s intentions and refrained from interrupting. Gu Qianyou, being perceptive, quickly realized that Zhong Shan was likely trying to win Zhao Suoxiang over and silently wished him sess.


    First, Zhao Suoxiang headed north to locate some members of his Iron Spear Battalion, instructing them to take his letters to the legionmander, informing him of everything that transpired at the Water Curtain Mountains. Then, he led Zhong Shan and the group westward towards Yanjing.


    They arrived in Blue me City, the capital of the Blue me Empire, after a month''s flight. From a distance, they could see the endless golden fortune hovering over the city, with a massive golden dragonzily coiling in the sky. Its majestic horns pointed skyward,manding heavenly power and exuding an immense presence.


    This was an imperial dynasty, grand and imposing.


    Gathering talents from all over the world, firmly rooted in Shenzhou! This was a true dynasty with deep roots in Shenzhou.


    Like the former Great Yu Empire, equally powerful. Perhaps due to the impending Ten Thousand Pill Conference, or maybe it was always this way, Blue me City saw a constant influx of powerful individuals, flocking to the city gates like ants returning to their nest.


    As they flew closer, the city wall, standing two thousand meters tall and made of white jade, became visible. It was reinforced with mystical formations, and the city walls stretched endlessly in both directions.


    "Let''s enter the city," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "Alright," the group followed Zhao Suoxiang to the city gate.


    At the gate, two rows of soldiers stood guard, but they did not stop anyone, allowing the countless people toe and go freely.


    "Don''t they check anyone?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly surprised.


    "They used to. But for over half a year, the number of alchemy expertsing to Blue me City has been increasing. The sheer volume made it nearly impossible to conduct checks. Queues wouldst all day, exhausting both the guards and the travelers. Therefore, the emperor ordered a suspension of the checks until after the Ten Thousand Pill Conference, at which point regr checks will resume," Zhao Suoxiang exined with a frown.


    Gu Qianyou and Zhong Shan were both taken aback, their mouths agape.


    This was Yanjing, the heart of the Blue me Empire, and the Blue me Emperor was so casual about security? Just because there were too many people, he stopped the checks? Because it was troublesome, he stopped the checks? Because peopleined, he stopped the checks?


    What kind of emperor was this, neglecting his own safety? This was the capital, the core of the Blue me Empire! What about the empire''s security?


    Reflecting on this inherited emperor, Zhong Shan and Gu Qianyou exchanged a knowing nce. They both realized that this emperor was either incredibly foolish or overly arrogant.


    As the saying goes, one can see the whole picture from a single detail. With such an emperor, Zhong Shan predicted the downfall of the Blue me Empire. It was only a matter of time under this emperor''s rule.


    However, Zhong Shan had no intention of warning the Blue me Emperor.


    Following Zhao Suoxiang through the east gate, the city was bustling and lively. Despite the Blue me Emperor''s ws, Yanjing was extremely prosperous, likely benefiting from the legacy of his predecessors.


    "Let''s go, first to your Zhao residence!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Uh, sorry, but the Zhao residence isn''t in the city," Zhao Suoxiang said somewhat awkwardly.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was intrigued.


    "Because my official rank is still low and I''m not yet qualified for court sessions, I built my residence near the barracks in the western part of the city," Zhao Suoxiang exined.


    Hearing Zhao Suoxiang''s exnation, Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up instead of showing any displeasure. Zhao Suoxiang, such a treasure, was being so overlooked by the Blue me Emperor? This was indeed a boon for the Great Zheng Dynasty!


    "No problem. Someone has already booked a room for me at Qingyou Inn. Now, take us to register for the Ten Thousand Pill Conference," Zhong Shan said.


    "Someone booked a room at Qingyou Inn for you? Uh, you should know that since a year ago, it''s been almost impossible to book a room at Qingyou," Zhao Suoxiang said incredulously.


    "Yui Inn, Tianzi No. 1 Courtyard," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    "Yui Inn? Tianzi No. 1 Courtyard? That ce is not just a simple inn. It''s very famous in Blue me City, and no one has ever rented that courtyard. You booked it?" Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes were filled with disbelief.


    "Yes, I booked it," Zhong Shan nodded and smiled.


    Yui Inn was originally his property, reserved exclusively for members of the Great Zheng Dynasty, which is why others could never book it.


    "Let''s go, take us to the registration area!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Alright!" Although Zhao Suoxiang was somewhat surprised, he didn''t dwell on such minor details.


    He led Zhong Shan and his group deeper into the city, exining the customs and culture of the Blue me Empire along the way.


    After Zhong Shan and his group left, several pairs of eyes at the city gate watched them intently before quickly blending into the crowd and disappearing.


    An hourter.


    In a small courtyard, a young woman in a green dress was scattering fish food into a small pond.


    At that moment, a servant hurried over.


    "Princess!" the servant respectfully called out to the young woman in green.


    "Oh? Which important person has arrived this time?" the woman asked nonchntly.


    "ording to the portraits you gave me, only one person from the portraits appeared today, Zhong Shan!" the servant reported.


    The woman''s hand trembled, and she identally dumped all the fish food into the pond upon hearing the name ''Zhong Shan''.


    "Zhong Shan? Did you say Zhong Shan?" the young woman looked at the servant.


    "Yes, and I also saw Princess Ling''er and the one who used to visit the mansion, ''Qinghong.'' There were eleven of them in total," the servant replied.


    "Ling''er is here too? Zhong Shan is here? Where did they go?" The young woman pondered deeply for a moment.


    This young woman in green was none other than Princess Nie Qingqing of the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty. In the past, when Zhong Shan went to the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty to fetch Ling''er, Nie Qingqing had contributed greatly.


    "They seemed to be heading towards the registration area," the servant said.


    "Go notify Marquis Shaofei. After all, everyone knows each other. As for Marquis Xiaoyao, there''s no need to inform him," Nie Qingqing said after some thought.


    "Yes!" The servant quicklyplied.


    After Nie Qingqing and Marquis Shaofei left, a sullen-faced Marquis Xiaoyao appeared before the servant.


    "What did you just tell Nie Qingqing and Marquis Shaofei? Why didn''t you report to me?" Marquis Xiaoyao asked coldly.


    "Subordinate... subordinate..." The servant stammered in fear.


    "Speak!" Marquis Xiaoyao demanded.


    "Yes, I saw Zhong Shan and Princess Ling''er with their entourage..." the servant quickly recounted his previous report.


    "Boom!" Marquis Xiaoyao kicked the servant, sending him flying.


    "Ugh!" The servant spat out a mouthful of blood but dared not say more.


    "Hmph!" Marquis Xiaoyao snorted coldly, ignoring the servant and striding out.


    In another valley within the city.


    A man dressed in white schr''s robes sat in the valley, ying an ancient zither, seemingly lost in the music. A green-d servant entered the valley, not daring to disturb him, and stood nearby, bowing.


    The white-robed man finished his piece, savoring the moment with his eyes closed. When he opened his eyes, a sharp light shed, indicating a breakthrough in his cultivation.


    He stood up, and a maid handed him a hot towel. The white-robed man took it and gently wiped his hands.


    "So, any discoveries?" the white-robed man asked.


    "Reporting to the Prime Minister, our people have just spotted Zhong Shan," the servant replied.


    "Oh? Zhong Shan? He actually came?" The white-robed man was slightly surprised.


    "Yes, along with three empresses, making a total of eleven people," the servant reported.


    "The Great Zheng Dynasty? Zhong Shan must be quite free toe here at such a time," the white-robed man smiled faintly.


    "Prime Minister, should we report this to the Dayong Dynasty?" the servant asked.


    "No need. The Dayong Dynasty is currently preparing to advance to an imperial dynasty. His Majesty has no time to deal with the Great Zheng Dynasty," the white-robed man said.


    "Understood!" the servantplied.


    This white-robed man was none other than Fan Yipin, a subordinate of Gu Xuan in the Dayong Dynasty, assisting Dayong''s alchemists in attending the Ten Thousand Pill Conference. For a strategist like him, gathering information from all sides was crucial.


    "Where did Zhong Shan and his group go?" Fan Yipin asked.


    "They seemed to be heading towards the registration area," the servant replied.


    "Lead the way!" Fan Yipinmanded.


    "Yes!"


    Zhong Shan followed Zhao Suoxiang deeper into Blue me City. Gradually, more and more people dressed in daoist robes appeared. Without paying them much attention, they soon arrived at a massive square.


    The square was filled with numerous alchemy furnaces, each with various mes underneath. Officials in official uniforms registered participants around the square, guiding them to an alchemy furnace to refine pills on the spot after registration.


    As Zhong Shan led his group forward, he suddenly spotted a familiar face.


    A man in a golden robe, carrying a ck ferocious knife on his back��Bai Ye! The former emperor of the Daye Dynasty, who had been bitten by the Great Qin Zombie Emperor ''Ying,'' and had since aligned himself with the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty.


    However, at this moment, Bai Ye was walking behind another man.


    This man, dressed in purple robes with long hair flowing behind him, held a horsetail whisk, exuding a carefree aura.


    The two seemed to have just registered and were holding a token given by the officials.


    As they approached, Bai Ye whispered something to the purple-robed man, who nodded and looked over.


    "Lord Wu''an, we meet again!" Zhong Shan greeted.


    "Emperor Zhong Shan of Great Zheng? Are you here for the Ten Thousand Pill Conference as well?" Bai Ye nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Yes, my empresses received an invitation. May I ask who this is?" Zhong Shan looked at the purple-robed man.


    "I am Xu Fu of the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty," the purple-robed man introduced himself.

 Chapter 565: You Cannot Try

    <h4>Chapter 565: You Cannot Try</h4>


    "The humble Daoist is Xu Fu of the Great Qin Dynasty," the man in the purple robe introduced himself.


    "Xu Fu?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted in surprise.


    Xu Fu? Hearing this name, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but be cautious. It wasn''t because he knew how powerful Xu Fu was, but rather it triggered a memory from his younger days on Earth.


    Xu Fu, a fangshi (alchemist) of the Qin Dynasty, was the one who sought the elixir of immortality for Emperor Qin Shi Huang, even proposing a voyage to the immortal inds overseas to obtain it.


    Logically, Zhong Shan wouldn''t connect the two Xu Fus together, but now he couldn''t help but think there might be a link.


    The Great Qin Dynasty, Emperor ''Ying'', even the capital ''Xianyang'' was exactly the same. Zhong Shan used to think it was just a coincidence. After all, the zombie Emperor ''Ying'' had been dormant for tens of thousands of years, whereas the Qin Dynasty on Earth was only a few thousand years ago, too far apart in time. If one were to say the Qin Dynasty traveled through time, it wouldn''t make sense due to the time discrepancy.


    However, the appearance of Xu Fu forced Zhong Shan to reconsider his previous assumptions. Xu Fu! The alchemist Xu Fu?


    There must be some connection between the Great Qin Dynasty and the Qin Dynasty on Earth.


    "Oh? Do you know me?" Xu Fu asked, surprised.


    Bai Ye also looked at Zhong Shan with a strange expression.


    "I''ve heard a bit about you," Zhong Shan nodded slightly.


    Heard a bit? It was like a thunderp to him! Xu Fu, the most renowned alchemist who ever served an emperor on Earth.


    "Oh?" Xu Fu looked at Zhong Shan with surprise, his eyes piercing as if he wanted to see through Zhong Shan.


    Even Bai Ye beside him twitched his face slightly, looking at Zhong Shan with an extremely strange expression.


    "Emperor Zhong, you are truly remarkable!" Xu Fu stared at Zhong Shan for a while, then seemed to think of something, revealing a strange smile and nodding.


    Hearing Xu Fu''s words, Zhong Shan realized things might be going wrong. It seemed he had said something he shouldn''t have!


    "Emperor Zhong knows so much about my Great Qin Dynasty! In fact, I also know a bit about your Great Yong Dynasty. This must be the leader of the Tai Dan Sect!" Xu Fu suddenly looked at Bao''er.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly, looking at Xu Fu.


    "Indeed, it''s a pleasure to meet Daoist Xu," Bao''er said.


    "Tai Dan Sect, the former Wangu Dan Sect, the world''s number one sect in alchemy. It is said that this Wangu Holy tform is also your sect''s property. The world''s number one alchemy sect, Xu Fu looks forward to it!" Xu Fu smiled.


    Hearing Xu Fu''s words, Bao''er''s eyes were filled with surprise. How could he know?


    Bao''er immediately looked at Zhong Shan because she had only told Zhong Shan this secret. No one else knew, not even the elders in the sect. This concerned the life and death of the Tai Dan Sect. How did Xu Fu know?


    Zhong Shan was also surprised. He knew that the Tai Dan Sect had more than just a hidden name.


    After the decline of the Wangu Dan Sect, the Tai Dan Sect went into hiding. Later, the Tai Dan Sect had several moments of great glory on thend of Shenzhou. It could be said that the Tai Dan Sect was a symbol. Although it declined again, no one would think that the two sects were actually the same.


    Seeing Bao''er''s surprise, Xu Fu revealed a strange smile.


    "Daoist Xu has a good memory! Gan Bao''er admires you!" Bao''er quickly said to Xu Fu.


    Xu Fu nodded, taking another look at Zhong Shan''s group, a strange smile on his lips, showing even more disdain.


    Xu Fu nodded slightly, then, with Bai Ye, stepped away. As they departed, Bai Ye cast a peculiar nce at Zhong Shan.


    "Why do those two look so strange?" Gu Qianyou asked curiously after they had left.


    "Xu Fu?" Zhong Shan''s pupils suddenly contracted as he realized his mistake.


    As a ruler, Zhong Shan had spies scattered throughout the world. Although they couldn''t be everywhere, each of the three great dynasties had their own informants, even if they were justmoners.


    However, the information returned from the Great Qin Dynasty did not include anyone named Xu Fu. In other words, Xu Fu had not shown himself publicly before this. So how could Zhong Shan have ''heard a bit'' about him?


    This should have been the first time Zhong Shan heard of Xu Fu. No wonder the two had such strange expressions when Zhong Shan said ''heard a bit.'' Initially, it was grave, then it turned to contempt. Xu Fu ultimately decided that Zhong Shan was just pretending to know him.


    However, this might be a good thing!


    Watching Xu Fu''s departing figure, Zhong Shan fell silent for a moment.


    Bai Ye, also known as Lord Wu''an, was a significant figure in the Great Qin Dynasty, a second-generation zombie under Emperor Ying. Yet he stood behind Xu Fu, indicating Xu Fu''s higher status!


    Could this Xu Fu truly be the legendary Xu Fu?


    "Master, what are you still looking at?" Bao''er asked.


    "Nothing," Zhong Shan shook his head, suppressing his doubts.


    The group approached an official standing nearby.


    "Are you here to register for the Ten Thousand Pills Conference?" the official asked.


    "Yes, here is the invitation," Bao''er handed over the invitation.


    The official epted it politely and nodded. "Regardless of the invitation, everyone must undergo the registration assessment. Although you are esteemed guests of the Dan Sage, the rules cannot be waived. I hope you understand."


    "Understood," Bao''er nodded.


    "What is the registration assessment?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "It''s simple. You need to refine a seventh-grade pill on the spot to sessfully register. After that, you will enter the pce in three months to officially participate in the Ten Thousand Pills Conference, where the Dan Sage will make a personal appearance," the official exined.


    Zhong Shan and Bao''er exchanged nces, and Bao''er nodded.


    A seventh-grade pill was a threshold that blocked most alchemists. Only those who could refine a seventh-grade pill could be considered true alchemy masters, eligible to participate in the Ten Thousand Pills Conference.


    "As esteemed guests of the Dan Sage, you may choose any alchemy furnace you like and refine the pill on the spot. Once you seed, I will issue you the conference tokens," the official said.


    "Understood," they all nodded.


    They selected a rtively secluded alchemy furnace and gathered around it.


    "This will do. Will you use your own herbs, or purchase from us?" the official asked.


    "We have our own," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Please proceed," the official gestured.


    Bao''er nodded, walked to the alchemy furnace, and with a wave of her hand, the lid flew off. She then took out a pile of jade boxes. As soon as the boxes were opened, a rich medicinal fragrance filled the air.


    "Ten-thousand-year-old purple gold vine, ten-thousand-year-old poria, ten-thousand-year-old thousand-leaf grass, thirty-thousand-year-old spirit ck..." the official''s jaw dropped.


    What kind of ce was this Tai Dan Sect? Such a collection of spirit herbs, all over ten thousand years old. Were they really going to use these materials for refining pills?


    As the official watched in disbelief, Bao''er tossed all the spirit herbs into the alchemy furnace, closed the lid, and ignited a gentle me beneath it, setting the furnace in motion.


    As the alchemy process began, a tremendous amount of spiritual energy burst forth from the furnace, filling the entire square with an overwhelming medicinal fragrance that overshadowed the scents from the other furnaces.


    Generally, alchemists strive to contain the spiritual energy and efficacy of the herbs within the furnace to maximize the quality of the pills. However, here, the spiritual energy and medicinal essence were pouring out in abundance.


    This didn''t seem like proper alchemy. If these herbs could produce a hundred pills, seventy of them would be wasted this way.


    The official standing by, seeing Bao''er throw all the herbs into the furnace, closed his eyes, unable to bear watching. By the heavens, who were these people? They were too wealthy, too extravagant. Even if they had money, they shouldn''t waste it like this.


    While the herbs used were top-notch and abundant, which seemed wasteful, it also had a benefit: it saved time.


    Others would take at least three hours to refine a seventh-grade pill, and sometimes it could take as long as forty-nine days. But Bao''er''s method was incredibly fast��one incense stick''s time!


    After the incense stick burned out, Bao''er made a hand gesture, and the pills werepleted.


    The speed was so astonishing that the official''s eyes bulged. Could it be true? Even refining a second-grade pill wouldn''t be this fast.


    As the potent medicinal fragrance spread, it attracted numerous onlookers, all eyes on Zhong Shan''s direction.


    "One incense stick? It was finished in one incense stick''s time?" someone suddenly eximed.


    "No way! How is that possible?"


    "I saw it with my own eyes. From when they took out the herbs, it was only one incense stick''s time."


    "How could a pill be refined in such a short time? This batch must be ruined!"


    Voices from the crowd chattered incessantly.


    But then, with a wave of Bao''er''s hand, seven emerald green pills flew out andnded in her palm.


    "She really refined them? What kind of pills are these? What grade?"


    "Only seven pills? They used so many top-grade herbs, each worth at least a million spirit stones. They used thirteen types, over ten million top-grade spirit stones worth!"


    The crowd gathered, chattering noisily.


    The official also swallowed hard and walked over, carefully inspecting the pills in Bao''er''s hand. They were emerald green, but he couldn''t identify them.


    "What are these?" the official asked, bewildered.


    Officials tasked with overseeing the registration assessment were usually very knowledgeable about pills, but he didn''t recognize these pills.


    "May I try one?" the official asked.


    Normally, this would be uneptable, given the value and rarity of the pills. If he could identify them, he wouldn''t dare make such a request.


    The onlookers were envious. If these were truly seventh-grade pills, consuming one would be highly beneficial. Many secretly wished to be the one to try the pill.


    "You want to try? That''s not possible!" Bao''er shook her head.


    "If I can''t try it, I can''t verify its grade," the official frowned, thinking Bao''er might be trying to pass off an unknown pill as a high-grade one.


    A seventh-grade pill that didn''t meet the criteria couldn''t be considered a sessful assessment.


    "Yeah, no one has seen this pill before. How do we know it''s a seventh-grade pill?"


    "If it''s not tested, how can we know? Are you trying to cheat your way in?"


    The crowd mored.


    The official''s gaze towards Bao''er turned unfriendly.


    Bao''er smiled wryly. "It''s not that you can''t try it; it''s that you can''t handle it."


    "Ridiculous! I''ve even tried eighth-grade pills. How could I not handle it?" the official scoffed.


    "This pill is called the ''Heart-Piercing Bone-Eating Pill.'' If you truly believe you can handle it, I won''t stop you," Bao''er said, extending one of the pills towards the official.

 Chapter 566: The Useless

    <h4>Chapter 566: The Useless</h4>


    "This pill is called the ''Ten Thousand Poisons Piercing Heart and Bone-Devouring Pill.'' If you think you can withstand it, I won''t stop you!" Bao''er handed over a pill.


    As soon as Bao''er finished speaking, the previously enthusiastic official seemed to have swallowed a bun whole, choking him up and quelling his excitement. Testing a pill? The ''Ten Thousand Poisons Piercing Heart and Bone-Devouring Pill''? Even the name alone sent chills down one''s spine��a poison pill? The most toxic of all pills?


    Poison pills weren''t unheard of, butpared to medicinal or breakthrough pills, they were far lessmon. After all, pills were meant to aid in breakthroughs and enhance cultivation. What use did a poison pill have? To poison someone?


    It wasn''t just the official; almost everyone around felt a cold shiver down their spines.


    A seventh-grade poison pill must be incredibly potent. Who would dare to try it?


    "Wait, the ingredients you used just now were all from pure Yang sources and had no poison at all. The millennium-old Purple Gold Vine, millennium-old Poria, millennium-old Thousand Leaf Grass, thirty-thousand-year-old Spirit Crow��each one is a top-grade tonic. Even if consumed alone, they would be fine. How could they be used to make a poison pill?" One of the onlookers immediately shouted.


    As soon as he spoke, the crowd chimed in, agreeing. Indeed, those ingredients were all great supplements. How could they produce a poison pill? Moreover, the higher the grade of poison pills, the rarer they were. No one had ever heard of such a pill as the ''Ten Thousand Poisons Piercing Heart and Bone-Devouring Pill.''


    However, some people furrowed their brows and looked at Bao''er with a hint of astonishment.


    "If you don''t believe me, you can try it!" Bao''er said with a cheerful smile.


    Everyone turned to the person who had just contradicted Bao''er. He was bold enough to incite the crowd, but when it came to testing the pill himself, he didn''t dare. His face turned beet red as he tried to leave the crowd but found himself blocked by others.


    Seeing him remain silent, the crowd looked at him with disdain.


    Looking back at the official, he was now mumbling, clearly having given up on the idea of testing the pill.


    Bao''er nced at the crowd and smiled, "There are some master alchemists among you who should know that any medicinal material has two sides. Highly toxic materials can be used to make powerful tonic pills if the method is right. Simrly, these tonic materials can be used to make highly toxic pills. Alchemy isn''t just about the materials; it''s about the method. Otherwise, if anyone could make good pills with good materials, what would be the use of master alchemists?"


    "Hmm!" Some people nodded in agreement. Some alchemy experts suddenly seemed enlightened.


    "But this pill has never been heard of before. What should we do?" One onlooker shouted.


    "Yes, you made it in just one incense stick''s time. How can we believe it? Even if we believe it''s a poison pill, we can''t be sure of its grade!" Another person said.


    Bao''er just smiled and said nothing.


    "Master alchemist of the Tai Dan Sect, since I''ve never seen this pill before, I can''t judge it. May I report to my master and ask you to wait a while?" The official had be much more respectful this time.


    Bao''er nodded, naturally having no objections.


    "Report? What''s there to report! It''s obviously a strange pill trying to deceive us. Making a seventh-grade pill in one incense stick''s time? What a joke, hahaha!" Suddenly, mockingughter came from the back of the crowd.


    The voice wasced with bitterness and seemed to carry a deep-seated hatred.


    Hearing this voice, Zhong Shan, who had been letting Bao''er handle the situation, narrowed his eyes, a cold light shing in them.


    Because the one who spoke wasn''t just anyone��it was none other than the Great Li Dynasty''s Marquis of Leisure, Nie Kuang, who harbored a deep grudge against him!


    As soon as Marquis of Leisure spoke, everyone turned to look. He was elegantly dressed, holding a paper fan, and looking provocatively at Zhong Shan.


    Trouble had arrived. The crowd''s spirits lifted; indeed, things were getting exciting!


    Some sharp-eyed individuals immediately recognized the neer��Marquis of Leisure from the Great Li Dynasty, a man of immense power and influence. These people quickly grasped the subtle dynamics at y and became even more attentive. The crowd around grewrger and more curious.


    Marquis of Leisure hadn''te alone; the memories of being struck by Zhong Shan twice still fresh, he was apanied by ten Imperial Extreme Realm experts as bodyguards. This was the grandeur of an empire��bodyguards starting at the Imperial Extreme Realm level.


    Of course, this was also due to the special status of the Marquis of Leisure.


    Upon arriving, Marquis of Leisure overheard the crowd discussing the im of producing a seventh-grade pill in the time it takes an incense stick to burn. Ridiculous! Even the top alchemy master of the Great Li Dynasty wouldn''t dare boast such a feat. Thus, he immediately concluded that Bao''er''s pill was a fake, using a strange pill to deceive everyone.


    Old grudges resurfaced, and he was eager to expose Bao''er''s pill as a fraud on the spot, using it to humiliate Zhong Shan and Bao''er.


    Upon seeing the Marquis of Leisure, Tian Ling''er red at him with fiery eyes. She already knew what kind of person he was, and now he suddenly appeared to question her sister Bao''er?


    Others also red angrily at the Marquis of Leisure.


    As he walked into the center, his eyes roved over Bao''er, Qian You, and Ling''er, shing a trace ofsciviousness.


    "Hmph!" Tian Ling''er snorted coldly.


    Qian You, however, disyed a disdainful sneer.


    Bao''er remained unafraid, smiling faintly as she said, "Would you like to test the pill yourself?"


    Bao''er''s words immediately brightened the eyes of all the onlookers, their gazes collectively fixed on the Marquis of Leisure.


    Seeing Bao''er deftly counter the Marquis'' taunt, Zhong Shan gave her an appreciative smile.


    At this moment, more people arrived.


    "Ling''er!" someone called out.


    The crowd parted, revealing Nie Qingqing, who, led by a servant, had also arrived with Marquis Shao Fei in tow.


    "Sister!" Tian Ling''er joyfully leaped over.


    Nie Qingqing took Tian Ling''er''s hand, whispered something in her ear, and then looked towards Zhong Shan''s group.


    "Zhong Shan, we meet again!" Nie Qingqing greeted, but for some reason, her voice carried a hint of nervousness, with a slight tremble.


    "Princess Qingqing, Marquis Shao Fei, it''s an honor to see you here again. How about you both join me at my ce after we pass this trial?" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Honored to ept!" Marquis Shao Fei nodded and smiled.


    "Yes!" Nie Qingqing nodded, her face slightly blushing.


    "Hmph, your ce? All the serene courtyards in Blue me City have been rented out. Only the poor tenements are left. Are you inviting the princess to a poor tenement? Hahaha, but then again, Zhong Shan, you probably only deserve to live in a poor tenement," the Marquis of Leisure sneered.


    A poor tenement? Not a serene courtyard, but a poor tenement? Those inns were poor tenements? With that statement, the Marquis of Leisure insulted most of the people present. After all, those undergoing the trial had only recently arrived in Blue me City and naturally couldn''t rent serene courtyards. Wasn''t he implying that most people here lived in poor tenements?


    The crowd''s favorable impression of the Marquis of Leisure plummeted.


    "I''d be happy to! What business is it of yours?" Nie Qingqing retorted angrily.


    Zhong Shan raised a hand to stop Nie Qingqing and turned to the Marquis of Leisure, "So, you''re saying you''ve rented a serene courtyard, Marquis?"


    "He''s not the one who rented it; I did!" Nie Qingqing quickly interjected.


    "So, it turns out you can''t even afford the so-called ''poor tenements''!" Zhong Shan said with a look of sudden realization.


    "Hahaha," a group of people who disliked the Marquis of Leisure burst intoughter.


    "Hmph, me rent a poor tenement? The princess merely paid the spirit stones in advance. I have plenty of spirit stones, and no matter how poor the ce I rent, it''s better than where you, a lowly breed, would live!" the Marquis of Leisure retorted angrily.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold. A lowly breed? Did he really think that being a descendant of the empire made him inherently noble?


    "Having money doesn''t mean you can achieve everything. You have spirit stones? So what? A waste will always be a waste," Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "What did you call me?" the Marquis of Leisure roared.


    "I called you a waste!" Zhong Shan repeated.


    "You...!" The Marquis of Leisure''s eyes widened in fury. His subordinates quickly drew their weapons, ready to attack at hismand.


    "Hah, in the Holy Capital of Lihuo, your home turf, you couldn''t do anything to me. Do you think you can challenge me here? Calling you a waste isn''t wrong. You, you''re just living off your family''s legacy, waiting for death," Zhong Shan said icily.


    "Zhong Shan, what a venomous tongue you have!" the Marquis of Leisure snarled, ring at Zhong Shan.


    Although most people didn''t like the Marquis of Leisure, seeing him provoked to this extent by Zhong Shan''s few words, they couldn''t help but feel a bit sympathetic.


    "It''s not that my tongue is venomous; it''s that I''m speaking the truth. If it weren''t for Princess Qingqing, could you have stayed in a serene courtyard? Do you believe that with your disgraceful behavior just now, you wouldn''t be able to rent a room, not even in the ''poor tenements'' you mentioned?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    When Zhong Shan finished speaking, everyone looked at him in surprise. Wasn''t he too arrogant? Even Nie Qingqing felt a bit worried for Zhong Shan��such bold words!


    "Hahahaha!" The Marquis of Leisureughed bitterly, filled with disdain.


    "You don''t believe me? How about we make a bet? Send your men to rent a serene courtyard. I guarantee that today, they won''t be able to rent a single ''poor tenement,'' let alone any serene courtyard in an inn," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "What if I manage to rent one?" the Marquis of Leisure asked coldly.


    Zhong Shan extended his hand, and suddenly, a person squeezed through the crowd, quickly handing a metal token to Zhong Shan before retreating.


    This sudden appearance startled Zhao Suoxiang, Nie Qingqing, and others.


    "This is the token for the number one courtyard in Yui Inn. If you can rent one, this courtyard is yours," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "It''s true, that really is the token for Yui Inn''s number one courtyard. I''ve seen the token for the number two courtyard, and apart from the number, it''s exactly the same. It''s impossible to fake," one of Blue me City''s local experts called out.


    The crowd''s gaze towards Zhong Shan changed. That courtyard had never been rented out before, and now Zhong Shan was giving it away?


    "What are you betting on?" the Marquis of Leisure asked coldly, sensing something amiss.


    "You don''t need to wager anything. If you win, the token is yours. If you lose, you don''t have to give me anything," Zhong Shan said generously.


    Zhong Shan''spanions smiled slightly. Yes, if Zhong Shan lost, he would only lose a courtyard. But if the Marquis of Leisure lost, it would confirm him as a waste.


    "Hmph! You five, go rent a serene courtyard, no matter the cost!" the Marquis of Leisure ordered five of his subordinates.


    "Yes!" The five immediately flew towards the city.


    Zhong Shan smiled coldly. In other cities, he might not be so confident, but in the cities around the Taishou Empire, he had long been plotting. The Dazhong Chamber of Commerce focused on the regions around the Taishou Empire. Competing with Zhong Shan here was a death wish!


    "After all this, do you want to test the pill or not?" Bao''er asked the Marquis of Leisure from the side.

 Chapter 567: The Deadly Poison Pill

    <h4>Chapter 567: The Deadly Poison Pill</h4>


    "After all this, do you want to test the poison yourself?" Bao''er called out to the Marquis of Leisure from the side.


    "Yes, will you try it?"


    "Do you dare to try?"


    ... The surrounding crowd jeered and taunted.


    "You,e over and test the pill!" the Marquis of Leisuremanded, ring at one of his subordinates.


    "My Lord, I-I-I..." the subordinate stammered in terror.


    "What are you afraid of? I have sixth and seventh-grade antidote pills. If the sixth-grade antidote doesn''t work, I have the seventh-grade one," the Marquis of Leisure assured.


    However, the subordinate was still extremely fearful.


    "Antidote pills are not omnipotent; they can''t neutralize all poisons!" Bao''er said with a smile.


    Bao''er''s words only increased the subordinate''s fear, and he refused to take the poison pill.


    "Coward!" the Marquis of Leisure scolded.


    "But my poison pill is not some mystical pill. A seventh-grade antidote pill is sufficient to neutralize it," Bao''er said, shaking her head with a smile.


    "Why don''t you try it then?" the Marquis of Leisure shouted again.


    "I dare not!" the subordinate shook his head again.


    The subordinate thought to himself: Even if the seventh-grade antidote pill doesn''t work, I''d be done for. No matter what, I can''t risk testing a poison pill. Moreover, he had heard that the Marquis of Leisure had never fared well in confrontations with Zhong Shan. In this renewed conflict, he didn''t want to be coteral damage.


    "If anything happens to you, I''ll avenge you!" the Marquis of Leisure threatened.


    Avenge me? No, thank you. I''d be dead by then; what good is revenge? And can the Marquis of Leisure really prevail over Zhong Shan?


    Understanding all this, the subordinate bowed and remained still, unwilling to test the pill.


    "If you don''t dare, then forget it," Bao''er said, smiling as she retrieved the poison pill.


    The crowd, seeing the matter conclude so anticlimactically, erupted in boos. Bao''er''s disdainful expression and the surrounding jeers left the Marquis of Leisure feeling utterly humiliated.


    "I''ll do it!" the Marquis of Leisure dered with a cold snort.


    "You must not!" Nie Qingqing immediately shouted.


    Although she disliked the Marquis of Leisure, his status in the Emperor''s eyes was unparalleled. If anything happened to him, the Emperor would be furious, and everyone here would suffer the consequences.


    "Why not? I don''t believe this poison pill is truly seventh-grade. A sixth-grade antidote should suffice, and she said the antidote would work. If it doesn''t, the Emperor will personally avenge me by killing all of you!" the Marquis of Leisure scoffed.


    The Marquis of Leisure acted recklessly!


    Zhong Shan felt a pang of pity for the Marquis of Leisure, who was now using his own potential death to threaten others. This was the epitome of uselessness. Insulting him had descended below even the lowest level of amusement. Zhong Shan''s disdain was now mingled with a touch of pity.


    "My Lord, you must not take it!" his subordinates pleaded.


    They knew that if anything happened to the Marquis of Leisure, they would all suffer as well.


    "Get lost, you cowards!" the Marquis of Leisure roared, kicking one of his subordinates aside.


    He reached out and took Bao''er''s poison pill.


    Now, driven by rage, the Marquis of Leisure ignored the pleas of Nie Qingqing and the others.


    He took the pill and, with lightning speed, tossed it into his mouth, causing the surrounding onlookers to shudder. Such recklessness!


    The Marquis of Leisure felt a surge of pent-up anger within him, which only began to dissipate after he swallowed the poison pill. However, immediately afterward, he felt a numbness spread throughout his body, followed by a sharp pain in his heart as if pierced by a sword. His skin started to turn a myriad of colors.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    The Marquis of Leisure screamed in agony as the poison took effect. His mind cleared in that moment of intense pain.


    "Lord Marquis, quick, the antidote pill!" one of his subordinates quickly handed him a sixth-grade antidote pill.


    But the Marquis of Leisure was already paralyzed, able only to open his mouth in terror. As the antidote pill was ced in his mouth, he swallowed it.


    However, the pain in his heart intensified, feeling like more and more swords were stabbing into him. It seemed as though his very soul was weakening, and his bones felt like they were melting.


    The Ten Thousand Poisons Piercing Heart and Bone-Devouring Pill!


    As the effects of the poison slowly manifested, the Marquis of Leisure''s eyes filled with terror. He deeply regretted his decision, his mouth agape.


    "The sixth-grade antidote isn''t working, quick, get the seventh-grade antidote!" someone from the crowd shouted.


    With that call, the crowd immediately believed in the potency of Bao''er''s pill, especially the official overseeing the evaluation, who now confirmed Bao''er''s pill''s efficacy.


    A subordinate quickly produced a seventh-grade antidote pill and ced it at the Marquis of Leisure''s mouth.


    At this point, the Marquis of Leisure was in such agony that he felt on the brink of death, even squeezing out a tear of colorful poison in his fear.


    As soon as the seventh-grade antidote pill entered his mouth, the Marquis of Leisure swallowed it.


    The antidote entered his stomach.


    Instantly, the colors on the Marquis of Leisure''s face lightened considerably, and he seemed able to speak, letting out a pained groan. However, the pain persisted, seemingly growing worse.


    "Save me!" the Marquis of Leisure cried out towards Nie Qingqing.


    "Daoist Bao''er, this... this..." Nie Qingqing looked towards Bao''er with concern.


    But Bao''er remained icy. Bao''er only showed a gentle demeanor towards Zhong Shan; to others, especially enemies, her face was cold as ice.


    As Nie Qingqing approached for help, Bao''er coldly looked at the Marquis of Leisure.


    "The Ten Thousand Poisons Piercing Heart and Bone-Devouring Pill is indeed only a seventh-grade pill, and an antidote pill can neutralize it. However, with ''Ten Thousand Poisons,'' how can a single seventh-grade antidote pill be enough?" Bao''er said.


    Upon hearing this, the Marquis of Leisure quickly produced a small jade bottle, enduring the pain.


    A subordinate immediately took the bottle, which contained about fifty seventh-grade antidote pills.


    The crowd gasped in amazement. This was the grandeur of a Marquis from an empire��fifty seventh-grade antidote pills at his disposal. Many present couldn''t afford even a single seventh-grade antidote pill, which was a rare and expensive variety.


    The seventh-grade antidote pills were quickly poured into the Marquis of Leisure''s mouth, and his condition began to improve, but the poison was still not fully neutralized. The pain persisted, and the Marquis of Leisure regretted his decision bitterly. How had he been so foolish as to test the poison? Why was it so potent?


    The crowd watched in shock as he consumed one pill after another...


    One, two, three...


    Until all the antidote pills were used up, the Marquis of Leisure''s face remained ashen. Though somewhat alleviated, the poison was not fully neutralized.


    The crowd now looked at Bao''er with a newfound sense of fear.


    "Antidote, give me the antidote!" the Marquis of Leisure pleaded with Bao''er.


    He felt increasingly tormented, able to move but feeling as if his entire body was being cut to pieces with each motion.


    "Daoist Bao''er, please provide an antidote!" Nie Qingqing pleaded.


    "I don''t have an antidote," Bao''er replied bluntly.


    The surrounding crowd took a step back, their fear of the poison pill reaching unprecedented levels. Fifty-one antidote pills had been consumed without sess, and the one who administered the poison didn''t have an antidote. The Marquis of Leisure seemed doomed. Everyone looked at him with pity.


    "If I die, I''ll drag you all with me. The Emperor will avenge me!" the Marquis of Leisure said, a look of despair on his face.


    "I told you, the antidote pills can neutralize the poison. My poison pill, called the ''Ten Thousand Poisons Piercing Heart and Bone-Devouring Pill,'' contains ten thousand types of poisons. Even with seventh-grade antidote pills, you''d need at least a hundred. Or, if you have the ability, you could find an eighth-grade antidote pill," Bao''er said.


    Upon hearing this, the Marquis of Leisure''s eyes lit up with a glimmer of hope.


    But all the antidote pills had been used up. The Marquis of Leisure immediately looked at his subordinates. They searched frantically and only found four more seventh-grade antidote pills, which he swallowed immediately.


    It still wasn''t enough.


    Nie Qingqing flipped her hand, producing a jade bottle. After all, if the Marquis of Leisure died, she would be in trouble too. Marquis Shao Fei, however, stood by indifferently.


    The bottle Nie Qingqing held contained only fifteen pills. The Marquis of Leisure quickly swallowed them.


    "It''s not enough, still not enough..." the Marquis of Leisure said in terror.


    "I should tell you, you have only two hours. If the poison isn''t neutralized in two hours, you''ll truly have to face Nie Fanchun," Bao''er said with a cold smile.


    "Ah... Quick, go buy more antidote pills, and bring the Grand Li Alchemy King here, hurry!" the Marquis of Leisure shouted at his subordinates.


    "Yes, yes, yes!" The subordinates quickly left, running in all directions. Two hours? The Marquis of Leisure endured the excruciating pain, gritting his teeth.


    One hourter, the Grand Li Alchemy King, who hade to attend the Grand Alchemy Conference, arrived first. Seeing the Marquis of Leisure''s miserable state, he immediately produced his seventh-grade antidote pills.


    "I only have twenty pills. There''s no time to make more. I''ve already sent others to my friends to ask for more antidote pills," the Alchemy King said.


    The Marquis of Leisure swallowed the twenty pills, enduring the severe pain.


    Finally, there was some relief, but Bao''er''s poison pill was too potent. The Alchemy King checked the Marquis of Leisure''s condition for a long time but couldn''t figure out how to neutralize the poisonpletely.


    Half an incense stickter, the Alchemy King''s alchemy friends brought more antidote pills. After consuming another thirty pills, the Marquis of Leisure returned to normal, but his body was stained with sweat and poison.


    "What a powerful poison. May I borrow a pill to study?" the Alchemy King asked.


    Bao''er smiled and handed over a pill, then looked at the examining official. "Do you need anyone else to verify?"


    "No need. If this pill doesn''t pass, then no pill can. I''ll process your approval immediately!" the official said promptly.


    Bao''er nodded, while the Alchemy King and his alchemy friends gathered around the poison pill, engrossed in their study. They were purely focused on alchemy and paid no heed to the conflict between Bao''er and the Marquis of Leisure.


    The Marquis of Leisure, looking like he had been through a severe illness, stood up, his gaze at Bao''er filled with fear, but also with more hatred and shame.


    "Marquis, all the inns in the city have refused to rent us rooms!" the first subordinate sent out suddenly returned, shouting in terror.

 Chapter 568: The Scene at the Grand Alchemy Conference

    <h4>Chapter 568: The Scene at the Grand Alchemy Conference</h4>


    "Marquis, all the inns in the city have refused to rent us rooms!" the first subordinate sent out suddenly returned, shouting in terror.


    The crowd had not yet dispersed. Upon seeing the first subordinate return, they all stared at him. But when he reported that they couldn''t rent a single room, the crowd exploded with chatter.


    "How is that possible?"


    "Not a single inn? Is he colluding with Zhong Shan to deceive his master?"


    "This Marquis of Leisure is so pathetic!"


    "He got what he deserved for being so arrogant. This is karma!"


    ... The Marquis of Leisure''s face turned beet red. Even with his thick-skinned demeanor, he couldn''t help but feel immensely humiliated. Not a single room?


    "Impossible! Say that again!" the Marquis of Leisure shouted at the subordinate.


    "Marquis, it''s true. Not only can we not rent a serene courtyard in Blue me City, but we can''t even get a room in the poor tenements. The worst part is, there are clearly vacant rooms, but they refuse to rent them to us. It''s bizarre, truly bizarre!" the subordinate eximed in terror.


    "How can this be?" the Marquis of Leisure said, still in disbelief.


    "It''s true, Marquis. We''ve been to over a hundred inns, from the highest to the lowest. They all refused to rent to us!" the subordinate repeated, trembling with fear.


    "Could it be that we''ve been too overbearingtely?" another subordinate whispered.


    As they spoke, everyone around them was stunned, then burst intoughter, mocking this group of misfits.


    "Hahahaha..."


    Peopleughed at the Marquis of Leisure''s arrogance and the consequent retribution, but some looked at Zhong Shan with a sense of gravity.


    Particrly Marquis Shao Fei, who stared at Zhong Shan, his eyes flickering with astonishment. This��how could this be?


    Marquis Shao Fei didn''t believe it was merely the Marquis of Leisure''s poor reputation. He thought about Zhong Shan. That ridiculous bet��no one believed Zhong Shan could win, but in the end, he did?


    How? How was it possible? ording to reports, Zhong Shan had only just arrived in Blue me City. In just one day, without any prior contact, he convinced all the innkeepers? That was impossible, absolutely impossible.


    So, what was the reason?


    Zhong Shan''s friends? Or perhaps people who disliked the Marquis of Leisure causing trouble?


    No, it couldn''t be. The person who brought the Yui Inn''s number one courtyard que had already indicated that Zhong Shan had some connection with the inns in the city.


    Some connection? Now, no inn was willing to rent to them, and it happened right after Zhong Shan made his bet. This indicated it was Zhong Shan''s doing.


    And within the two hours after Zhong Shan gave the order, the entire Blue me City followed hismand?


    He has incredible influence. Zhong Shan now has incredible influence. In Blue me City, perhaps only the Blue me Emperor had the authority to issue such an order. But now, Zhong Shan had that authority too.


    This Zhong Shan is terrifying. Truly terrifying.


    In the eastern part of Shenzhou, his influence had already reached the western part of Shenzhou. What kind of person was he? How terrifying, and in just a few years?


    It wasn''t just Marquis Shao Fei who saw Zhong Shan''s terrifying influence; a man in white hiding among the crowd also noticed it. This man, sweating profusely from shock, was Fan Yipin, a subordinate of Gu Xuan from the Yongle Dynasty.


    Having heard that Zhong Shan had arrived, Fan Yipin quickly rushed over, just in time to witness this earth-shattering event.


    "Let''s go!" Fan Yipin immediately turned and left.


    His subordinate hesitated but followed.


    "Prime Minister!" the subordinate asked in confusion.


    "Silence!" Fan Yipin''s eyes shed coldly, and his subordinate fell silent.


    Soon, they returned to their lodging.


    "Prime Minister!" the subordinate was still puzzled.


    "Pack your things. We are returning to the capital immediately!" Fan Yipin ordered.


    "But, Prime Minister, we''ve already passed the registration and assessment. We can participate in the Grand Alchemy Conference soon. If we leave now, what about our alchemists?" the subordinate asked anxiously.


    "We are all leaving. Even though I rated Zhong Shan very highly, it wasn''t enough. His ambition is too great, and his influence extends even here. Quickly, pack up. We must return to the capital and prepare for a major overhaul!" Fan Yipin said with urgency.


    "Yes!" The subordinate was now filled with fear.


    Fan Yipin''s political instincts were exceptionally sharp. From just a few unusual events, he sensed a grand conspiracy. He immediately ordered everyone to return to the capital, knowing that the severity of the situation required his personal return to assist the Emperor in a thorough purge.


    Meanwhile, back at the za:


    After learning the news, the Marquis of Leisure''s face turned bright red with rage.


    "At least the Marquis didn''t bet anything. He hasn''t lost anything."


    "I always knew that Marquis''s arrogance would lead to retribution!"


    As the crowd continued to criticize the Marquis of Leisure, his face grew redder, eventually turning almost ck with anger.


    "Marquis, your face is turning ck! Could it be that the poison hasn''t been fully neutralized?" an oblivious subordinate asked in panic.


    "Alchemy King, please check if the Marquis is alright!" another subordinate called out, pulling the Alchemy King, who was studying the poison pill.


    "Get lost!" the Marquis of Leisure kicked the subordinate away and turned to leave.


    His other subordinates could only follow him.


    Soon, the main party left. Although the onlookers felt unsatisfied, they slowly dispersed. The Marquis of Leisure''s name would undoubtedly spread throughout Blue me City that day.


    Meanwhile, the official responsible for registration approached with a token.


    "Master alchemists of the Tai Dan Sect, this is the token for the Grand Alchemy Conference three months from now. You will need this token to enter the pce. You may bring up to ten people," the official said respectfully, handing over the token.


    "Thank you," Bao''er said with a smile, epting the token.


    The group then followed Zhong Shan to his residence, choosing to remain silent about the earlier events.


    That same day, the Marquis of Leisure left Blue me City with his subordinates, unable to stay any longer.


    As for Marquis Shao Fei, after attending a banquet at Zhong Shan''s invitation, he also bid farewell to Nie Qingqing the next day. He and his subordinates quickly departed for the capital of the Great Li Dynasty, Lihuo.


    Like Fan Yipin, Marquis Shao Fei had discerned the terrifying implications of the situation and rushed back to report the shocking news to Nie Fanchun.


    During the three months, Nie Qingqing naturally stayed with Ling''er and enjoyed pleasant conversations with Zhong Shan and his group. The incident at the square became a great joke in Blue me City. However, no matter how big the joke, it couldn''tst long. Only a few extremely shrewd individuals analyzed the gravity of the situation, while most people treated it as a passing joke.


    However, the name of the Tai Dan Sect was remembered by almost everyone. A single poison pill requiring a hundred antidote pills to neutralize �C the Tai Dan Sect''s alchemy master was a formidable figure indeed.


    Three months flew by quickly, and the day of the Grand Alchemy Conference arrived.


    Zhong Shan''s group consisted of ten people. Zhao Suoxiang, however, had left due to a summons from his legionmander. Zhong Shan''s group, along with Nie Qingqing''s group, made their way to the pce together.


    As they approached the pce gates and watched people slowly enter the imperial city, Zhong Shan revealed a strange smile.


    "What''s wrong?" Nie Qingqing asked.


    "This Blue me Emperor is either incredibly arrogant or incredibly foolish. Holding the Grand Alchemy Conference in the pce? Truly ''unique''," Gu Qianyou said with a smirk.


    "The pce, the imperial family''s domain, is indeed not suitable for the presence of any person or force outside the emperor''s control. Blue Tianwei''s decision is indeed questionable," Nie Qingqing agreed after some thought.


    Despite this, seeing most people enter, Zhong Shan''s group followed suit. They handed over their tokens and invitations and were led by a eunuch to arge pce square, which had numerous stands for the guests and alchemists'' friends and family.


    The northernmost part featured thergest pce, with a group of Blue me Dynasty officials standing in front. The leading figure, dressed in a blue dragon robe and wearing a t sky crown, was the Blue me Emperor, Blue Tianwei!


    Beside him, in a moon-white robe, was an emaciated old man with white hair �C the Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage, renowned for three thousand years as the world''s greatest alchemist, Blue Longhu!


    The eunuch led each alchemy master to their designated ces. Those with invitations were ced in specific positions, while those without were ced in the southern area.


    Nie Qingqing''s group, representing the Great Li Dynasty, was naturally ced in the north, close to the Blue me Emperor. Surprisingly, the Tai Dan Sect was also ced in the north, near the Blue me Emperor.


    As they approached, a eunuch whispered something to the Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage, who then turned to look in Zhong Shan''s direction, specifically at Bao''er. His eyes shed with a hint of surprise, followed by a seemingly very friendly nod toward Bao''er.


    Bao''er was slightly taken aback but nodded in return.


    The group reached the northern square, and the seats assigned to the Tai Dan Sect were actually better than those assigned to Nie Qingqing''s group. This puzzled everyone, but they sat down withoutment, watching as more and more alchemy masters were led into the square.


    The vast square had nearly ten thousand chairs set up, indicating that there were close to a thousand alchemy masters who had secured a spot in the conference. Although not all of the world''s top alchemists were present, a significant portion of the highest-ranked alchemists were.


    The Grand Alchemy Conference was a gathering of alchemical experts. Among them were many who were so devoted to their craft that they were indifferent to worldly affairs. To these alchemists, the highest-ranking person present was not the Blue me Emperor but the Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage.


    Top-tier alchemists, each with their own pride, did not pay obeisance to the Blue me Emperor but instead found their seats and waited for the conference to begin.

 Chapter 569: Unfriendly Arrival

    <h4>Chapter 569: Unfriendly Arrival</h4>


    Top alchemists, apanied by their friends or disciples, entered the venue one after another. Zhong Shan''s group had arrived rtively early. Here, only thepetition between alchemists mattered; the emperor was not the central focus.


    After Zhong Shan and hispanions took their seats, two more individuals were led in by a eunuch. Leading the pair was Xu Fu, whom Zhong Shan had met three months prior, followed by Bai Ye.


    Xu Fu, still dressed in his purple robe, wore a serene expression. As he approached, he nodded slightly in Bao''er''s direction, then at the Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage, ignoring everyone else. Xu Fu and Bai Ye were seated on the opposite side of the Blue me Emperor, silently waiting for the Grand Alchemy Conference to begin.


    As more people arrived, the surrounding area of the grand square slowly filled up. The northern section, where Zhong Shan and his group were seated, gradually filled with prestigious guests, including members of major alchemical sects from across Shenzhou.


    This gathering brought together the majority of Shenzhou''s top alchemical talents. If this event were attacked, it would plunge Shenzhou''s alchemical world into a severe decline. However, no force dared to cause trouble at the Grand Alchemy Conference, which was endorsed by various empires and sacrednds. To do so would be suicidal.


    Almost all participants had arrived, creating a grand spectacle with nearly ten thousand people. However, a set of seats next to Xu Fu remained conspicuously empty, indicating the absence of another highly esteemed alchemical sect.


    The missing sect was from the Taishou Empire! Zhong Shan quickly deduced this, noting that the northern seats were reserved forrge or ancient alchemical sects and representatives from empires and sacrednds. Despite showing no outward reaction, Zhong Shan was most concerned about the Taishou Empire. Until the veryst moment, their representatives had not arrived. Were they not participating?


    "Seal the venue!" The Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage announced loudly.


    Sealing the venue meant no moreters could join the Grand Alchemy Conference. The Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage, being the most respected figure in the alchemical world,manded immediate silence andpliance from the crowd.


    "CAW~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A deep, resonant crow suddenly echoed throughout the Grand Alchemy Conference. Unlike the harsh cawing of a typical crow, this sound was like a tolling bell, striking deeply into everyone''s hearts. The caw resonated like a thunderp, overshadowing the Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage''smand, as if deliberately challenging his authority.


    Everyone felt a sudden wave of heat spread through the square, making them feel stifled. A massive pressure descended from the sky, indiscriminatelypelling everyone to bow in submission. The center of the square was swept by this pressure, creating a dust storm that spread in all directions.


    People looked up in shock.


    A blinding golden light shot down from the sky, forcing those with lower cultivation to avert their gaze. Those with higher cultivation saw a golden sun descending rapidly. Inside the sun was a gigantic crow, not just any crow but a golden crow with three legs, surrounded by zing mes. It was as if the sun itself was falling to the earth.


    "CAW~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The three-legged golden crow spread its wings and let out another resounding caw, sending another bell-like shockwave through everyone''s hearts.


    The Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage''s eyes shed with anger, and even the Blue me Emperor raised an eyebrow.


    A three-legged golden crow��the Crown Prince of the Taishou Empire had arrived! But the Crown Prince had not adhered to protocol, instead descending from the sky in the most dramatic fashion, as if challenging the entire Grand Alchemy Conference. Why? Was it provocation, arrogance,ck of thought, or something else?


    The ten-zhang tall three-legged golden crow spread its wings, mes soaring skyward. This was the king of crows, the mightiest of its kind, wielding the most destructive fire of all��True Sun Fire! It was said to be able to burn everything in the world.


    Of course, this was only a im. The current three-legged golden crow''s power was far from reaching that level, merely demonstrating the potency of True Sun Fire.


    Legend has it that True Sun Fire is the greatest fire in Shenzhou, the emperor of mes,manding all other fires.


    As soon as the three-legged golden crow appeared above the square, it directed its head towards the Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage, as if challenging his authority.


    The Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage, at the Imperial Extreme Realm, was the stabilizing force of the Blue me Empire. Simrly, the three-legged golden crow was also at the Imperial Extreme Realm, its powerful aura pressing towards the northern square.


    The Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage''s eyes grew cold, as if he was about to teach this impudent creature a lesson. The Blue me Emperor, being at the Royal Extreme Realm due to inheriting his position, turned pale, a flicker of fear crossing his eyes.


    "Chirp~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A sudden clear cry resonated from the northern square, spreading in all directions.


    It was Tian Ling''er. From her right arm, a green light shot into the sky.


    "Chirp~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    In front of the ten-zhang tall three-legged golden crow appeared a palm-sized, fire-red bird. This bird was peculiar, with a body covered in red feathers but surrounded by blue mes.


    The blue mes danced around it, causing the surrounding space to tremble.


    The small bird angrily chirped at the three-legged golden crow.


    "Chirp~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A massive surge of blue mes erupted from the small bird, shaking the mes around the three-legged golden crow.


    "CAW~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" "Chirp~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The crow and the bird shed, neither willing to back down.


    The red bird was the Vermilion Bird, which had been hidden within Tian Ling''er. Upon awakening, it had somehow gained the ability to control mes, always surrounded by blue fire.


    The Vermilion Bird had clearly been provoked by the three-legged golden crow. Although the crow was not directly confronting the Vermilion Bird, the impact of its mes was palpable.


    Golden True Sun Fire spewed towards the Vermilion Bird.


    "Xiao Hong!" Tian Ling''er eximed in surprise.


    "Chirp!"


    The Vermilion Bird cried out, its blue mes shing with the True Sun Fire.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The collision of the two fires incinerated everything around them, a powerful shockwave radiating in all directions, creating an overwhelming spectacle.


    "What kind of fire is that? It actually withstood True Sun Fire? Am I seeing things?"


    "How is that possible? How can any me withstand the True Sun Fire?"


    "Isn''t the True Sun Fire the strongest me?"


    ... The voices of astonishment came from all directions. ording to Shenzhou''s historical records, no me had ever dared to rival the True Sun Fire. The True Sun Fire was considered the world''s strongest me, establishing the crow tribe''s prestigious status in Shenzhou. But what was happening now? The True Sun Fire had been blocked by another me?


    "Vermilion Bird? Southern Bright me?" Xu Fu muttered from not far away, a hint of surprise shing in his eyes.


    "CAW~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The three-legged golden crow, enraged that its infallible True Sun Fire had been blocked, prepared to unleash an even stronger attack.


    "Shen Qi, that''s enough!"


    A loud voice, as clear as a bell, echoed from the sky.


    The three-legged golden crow, though reluctant, withdrew. It then shrank to the size of a palm.


    Seeing the golden crow retreat, the Vermilion Bird''s eyes shed with triumph.


    "Chirp, chirp, chirp!" The Vermilion Bird joyfully flew around before descending into Tian Ling''er''s palm.


    "Xiao Hong, you''re awake! You scared me!" Tian Ling''er yfully patted the Vermilion Bird''s head.


    The Vermilion Bird tilted its head, looking displeased, but when Tian Ling''er took out its favorite Fire Spirit Rice, it happily pped its wings and started eating.


    At that moment, a group of figures slowly descended from the sky. The three-legged golden crow, now palm-sized, quickly flew to the foremost person, perching on his shoulder.


    This was a man in a golden robe, very burly and exuding arrogance. A red line ran down his forehead, and his eyes gleamed with a haughty indifference. Behind him were nine individuals, each dressed differently.


    The man in the golden robe was none other than one of the key figures Zhong Shan had been watching��Seventh Prince of the Taishou Empire, Crown Prince Chongtian, Lu Chongtian!


    Zhong Shan clenched his fist. Lu Chongtian, brother to Crown Prince Lingtian!


    Bao''er and Qianyou immediately grasped Zhong Shan''s fist with their delicate hands,forting him.


    Feeling the softness on his fist, Zhong Shan took a deep breath, looked at the two women, and nodded.


    Crown Prince Chongtian and his entouragended slowly. He nced at the Vermilion Bird in Tian Ling''er''s palm with slight surprise, but quickly concealed it and turned his attention to the Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage.


    "Just in time. Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage, it''s been a while!" Crown Prince Chongtian greeted with a smile.


    "On time? The Grand Alchemy Conference does not wee such an entrance!" The Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage replied in a t tone.


    "The Taishou Empirees with great sincerity and under the Emperor''s decree. We hope that after this conference, the Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage will join our Taishou Empire. We have prepared the position of Imperial Alchemy Patron for you!" Crown Prince Chongtian dered with a smile.


    Crown Prince Chongtian''s statement caused a stir in the entire square. What did this mean? Was it an invitation or a threat? Was he forcing the Alchemy Sage to join the Taishou Empire?


    The earlier disy of power by the golden crow, directly challenging the Dragon-Tiger Alchemy Sage, seemed to be an attempt to diminish his authority.


    The arrival was clearly unfriendly!

 Chapter 570: Alchemy

    <h4>Chapter 570: Alchemy</h4>


    The Crown Prince Chongtian, Forcibly Inviting the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage?


    At this grand gathering of alchemists? Forcibly inviting an Alchemy Sage?


    Nearly everyone''s eyes widened, staring intently at the group in the northern za.


    The Crown Prince Chongtian stood there, haughty and unrestrained! His eyes were sharp as he gazed at the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage.


    Initially, the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage was enraged. However, his anger turned into a cold smile as he said, "I appreciate the kindness of His Majesty Taishui, but as a member of the Blue me Empire, I, Lan Longhu, will not switch allegiances. I will remain a consecrator of the Blue me Empire!"


    After Lan Longhu finished speaking, the Blue me Emperor beside him straightened his posture, his courage bolstered!


    "Is that so? I believe you will be a consecrator of the Taishui Empire''s Alchemy Academy," Crown Prince Chongtian responded with a sinister smile, ceasing his argument with Lan Longhu.


    "If you are here to participate in the Grand Alchemy Gathering, please take a seat. If you are here to cause trouble for this old man, then you are not wee!" Lan Longhu said coldly.


    "We are, of course, here to participate in the Grand Alchemy Gathering. We look forward to your guidance, Alchemy Sage!" Crown Prince Chongtian replied with an evil grin.


    With that, he led his entourage and the alchemists of the Taishui Empire to seats next to Xu Fu.


    The entire za was focused on the Taishui Empire''s group, eyes filled with shock. The Taishui Empire was too arrogant! Too brazen!


    Such arrogance! Forcibly inviting an Alchemy Sage? In front of the world''s alchemy sects, acting so brazenly?


    Of course, they had the credentials to back their arrogance. The mere mention of the Taishui Empire was enough to overshadow most present.


    Lan Longhu cast a cold nce at Crown Prince Chongtian before turning to Zhong Shan''s direction, noticing the Vermillion Bird eating, then looked at Zhong Shan, and finally nodded in gratitude towards him.


    Zhong Shan returned the nod, but his mind was filled with thoughts.


    What did Crown Prince Chongtian mean by his words? He was so certain that Lan Longhu would join the Taishui Empire? Why was he so sure? Lan Longhu was a royal rtive of the Blue me Empire and would never leave it unless the Blue me Empire ceased to exist!


    Thinking of this, Zhong Shan looked gravely at the Blue me Emperor, Lan Tianwei.


    Lan Tianwei, an inheritor of the Imperial Realm, had traveled the world before ascending to the throne, living as a carefree wanderer. Could such a person maintain the Blue me Empire?


    As for Crown Prince Chongtian, after taking his seat, he turned his gaze towards Zhong Shan. His eyes narrowed, and a hint of malice shed within them.


    It was this group that had foiled his ns and disrupted his scheme?


    With a wave of his hand, an eunuch approached Crown Prince Chongtian.


    "Who are those people?" Crown Prince Chongtian asked.


    "They are representatives of the Grand Alchemy Sect!" the eunuch responded respectfully.


    Others didn''t find anything unusual, but Zhong Shan, not far away, noticed something odd. The eunuch was too obedient, too respectful, as if Crown Prince Chongtian was his true master.


    Feeling a bit strange, Zhong Shan looked again at Lan Tianwei, with an unsettling feeling in his heart!


    Previously, everyone had different expressions. The conflict had stirred everyone''s emotions greatly, but one person seemed indifferent throughout.


    Xu Fu! Xu Fu sat quietly, his emotions unaffected by the earlier events, showing only a hint of surprise when he saw the Vermillion Bird.


    Everyone had arrived!


    Despite Crown Prince Chongtian''s actions causing some displeasure, the Grand Alchemy Gathering still needed to proceed.


    <strong>The Grand Alchemy Gathering, initiated by the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage, naturally presided over by him.</strong>


    The Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage stepped forward, taking a few steps and turning in a circle, scanning therge za and all the people around it.


    At this moment, the entire za was silent.


    "A once-in-a-millennium event, the Grand Alchemy Gathering! I am pleased to once again meet with all the masters of alchemy. Many here are old friends who attended thest gathering, and there are also some new faces. Congrattions on bing top alchemists of Shenzhou!" the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage began.


    The scene remained quiet. Who was the Alchemy Sage? And who were these people present? Naturally, they would not be so vulgar as to apud the Alchemy Sage. It was akin to a court, where ministers would not p after the emperor spoke.


    Everyone listened silently. The Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage was the highest authority in the world of alchemy. The title of Alchemy Sage symbolized being the "number one." Moreover, the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage had held the title for three consecutive terms, totaling three thousand years as the Alchemy Sage, unmatched by anyone.


    "I believe the core of the Grand Alchemy Gathering lies in the possession of the ''Eternal Alchemy tform.'' I think all 988 alchemy masters here would like to take the Eternal Alchemy tform back with them," the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage smiled.


    Everyone stared at the Alchemy Sage. Indeed, without the lure of the Eternal Alchemy tform, at least half of the people here would not have attended.


    "The ownership of the Eternal Alchemy tform can only be decided on the tform itself. At most, 81 alchemists canpete on the Eternal Alchemy tform at the same time, but we have 988 alchemists here. ording to tradition, 81 people will be selected topete for the Eternal Alchemy tform, and thus for the title of ''Alchemy Sage,''" the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage announced.


    "How will the 81 people be selected?" asked an alchemist from the southern side, clearly attending the Grand Alchemy Gathering for the first time.


    "Are you a newly ranked top alchemist?" the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage asked with a smile.


    "Yes, Alchemy Sage! I was not qualified to attend thest Grand Alchemy Gathering," the alchemist replied.


    "Understood," the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage nodded.


    "The registration test requires creating a seventh-grade pill, but selecting participants will involve creating an eighth-grade pill!" the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage exined.


    "Uh? But there are definitely more than 81 alchemists here who can create eighth-grade pills!" the alchemist frowned.


    "Indeed, there are many who can create eighth-grade pills. However, given specific materials, creating an eighth-grade pill bes much more challenging. I have prepared 36 specific herbs, each weighing one jin, as a set, totaling 988 sets. Using the herbs I provide, create an eighth-grade pill! Aside from the form, alchemists are not allowed to use anything else. Good luck to everyone!" the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage smiled.


    "Thank you for informing us, Alchemy Sage!" the alchemist said.


    "No need to thank me. This is what I was going to say anyway. However, let me remind you once more: once the alchemy process begins, no one outside is allowed to disturb the alchemists, or they will be expelled from the Grand Alchemy Gathering!" the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage said sternly.


    "Understood, Alchemy Sage!" the alchemists responded.


    Quickly, the servants brought 988 alchemy furnaces onto the za.


    Everything was identical, even the furnaces were of the same specifications. Beside each furnace was a jade rack holding 36 different herbs, each weighing one jin. At each furnace stood a servant responsible for anything other than the herbs.


    "Alchemists, please begin!" the Alchemy Sage gestured.


    Upon the Alchemy Sage''smand, alchemists from all directions entered the area, each choosing a furnace.


    Bao''er nced at Zhong Shan, who gave her an encouraging nod. Bao''er smiled and stepped forward.


    Alchemy required true skill, and Bao''er had just that. She was the top alchemist in the Grand Alchemy Sect. Her sensitivity to herbs far surpassed the three grand elders, which was why her master had taken her as a direct disciple even when she was a mortal.


    Before Bao''er stood a giant furnace three zhang high. She walked around it, smiling slightly, then moved to the jade rack to inspect the herbs. After confirming theirponents, Bao''er, with just a thought, began to select the herbs and start the alchemy process.


    With a wave of her hand, the lid of the alchemy furnace opened wide, and Bao''er tossed in twelve types of herbs. Forming a hand seal, mes roared to life at the bottom of the furnace.


    Bao''er had begun her alchemy!


    At that moment, fewer than ten people in the za had started their alchemy; the rest were still contemting their herbbinations. Bao''er led the charge, the first to begin alchemy!


    "Bao''er is amazing. She started right away. She''ll definitely produce an eighth-grade pill," Ling''er whispered.


    "Of course!" Gu Qianyou replied with a smile.


    Zhong Shan had no worries about Bao''er producing an eighth-grade pill. Back at home, she had even produced ninth-grade pills. Despite the herb restrictions, Bao''er''s alchemical talent was extraordinary. She was sure to secure a spot on the Eternal Alchemy tform.


    As Bao''er formed hand seals and chanted an incantation, a misty purple aura began to rise from the furnace.


    Bao''er continued her alchemy for a full day and night! By this time, nearly everyone had started their alchemy.


    The grand alchemy gathering had officially begun with great momentum!


    After a day, Bao''er was slightly fatigued but persisted.


    "Bring water!" Bao''er instructed a nearby servant.


    Water wasn''t considered part of the herbs, so the servant quickly brought sixteen jade bottles of specific spring water. Bao''er inspected a bottle and nodded, "Pour twelve bottles of this spring water into the furnace!"


    "Yes!" The servant nodded and began pouring the water as Bao''er continued to add twelve more types of herbs in sequence.


    The furnace lid closed, and Bao''er resumed her alchemy.


    "Boom��"


    A loud explosion echoed from a distance.


    A furnace had exploded, leaving the alchemist standing there in shock.


    "Failed," someone sighed.


    "Wow, even the furnace exploded!" someone else eximed.


    If the furnace exploded, the eighth-grade pill was as elusive as the moon in water.


    That person was eliminated, and soon after, more failures followed. Though their furnaces didn''t explode, they produced nothing but waste, consuming all the herbs.


    These individuals left the za with a mix of confusion and frustration.


    By the second, third, and fourth days, only about two hundred people remained in the za!


    "Done!" someone suddenly shouted.


    Everyone turned to look.


    It was Xu Fu. As his furnace lid opened, a golden pill flew out. A servant quickly caught it on a jade te and presented it to the Alchemy Sage.


    The Alchemy Sage examined it, a hint of surprise in his eyes.


    "Congrattions, fellow Daoist!" the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage congratted Xu Fu.


    "Mm!" Xu Fu nodded indifferently, returning to his seat.


    Xu Fu was the first to finish an eighth-grade pill!


    Zhong Shan focused on Bao''er. She was drenched in sweat, clearly exhausted from the days of alchemy.


    "Fetch eighteen more bottles of water!" Bao''er instructed the servant.


    "Yes!" The servant left immediately.


    Bao''er picked up thest twelve types of herbs, using her spells to divide them, taking about one liang of each.


    The servant returned with eighteen jade bottles filled with water.


    Bao''er waved her hand, opening the furnace lid.


    "Add the water!" Bao''ermanded.


    The servant poured the water into the furnace while Bao''er added the herbs in sequence.


    She closed the lid and continued her alchemy.


    Just then, Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    He had noticed that the servant who had just poured the water had given a subtle nod in a particr direction.


    Zhong Shan followed the servant''s gaze and saw Crown Prince Chongtian not far away.


    The servant was reporting to Crown Prince Chongtian?


    Sensing Zhong Shan''s gaze, Crown Prince Chongtian turned and looked at him, a sinister smile and a hint of disdain in his eyes.


    Damn! The servant had tampered with the water!

 Chapter 571: The Exploding Furnace of Reciprocity

    <h4>Chapter 571: The Exploding Furnace of Reciprocity</h4>


    Disaster! That servant had tampered with the water!


    Zhong Shan suddenly stood up. The crowd was slightly taken aback at his abrupt movement.


    "What''s wrong?" Gu Qianyou frowned.


    Tian Ling''er and Nie Qingqing also looked at Zhong Shan in confusion. What was going on?


    Zhong Shan shot a cold nce at Crown Prince Chongtian, who responded with another sinister smile.


    Zhong Shan turned his gaze towards the center of the arena, towards Bao''er.


    Toote!


    "Boom!"


    A muffled explosion echoed, and Bao''er''s alchemy furnace trembled, a plume of ck smoke shooting out from its top.


    Bao''er paused her hand seal, a look of surprise shing in her eyes. She turned and saw Zhong Shan''s expression and his furious gaze directed at the nearby servant.


    Bao''er''s expression tightened, and she quickly opened the furnace. With a wave of her hand, a pile of medicinal residue fell onto a jade te beside her.


    "You, you..." Bao''er suddenly red coldly at the servant.


    The servant''s eyes flickered with panic but quickly adopted an innocent expression.


    Perhaps because the Vermillion Bird had previously helped the Alchemy Sage, the Alchemy Sage had been paying close attention to Bao''er.


    "Friend Gan, did your alchemy fail?" the Alchemy Sage asked as he approached.


    "Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage, I demand an exnation!" Bao''er said, her eyes burning with anger.


    Her alchemy had held great hope for her master. She had been so confident, yet she ended up with a ruined batch of pills. What if her master was disappointed? How could she not be furious?


    "What happened?" the Alchemy Sage frowned.


    "Was this servant of yours deliberately assigned to sabotage me? I instructed him to pour in eighteen bottles of water, but he skimped on it. Does he not know that in alchemy, a small error can lead to a significant difference? My batch was about to seed, and hepletely ruined it!" Bao''er fumed.


    Bao''er''s outburst quickly drew the attention of many spectators. All eyes turned towards her.


    What was going on?


    Everyone was curious. Why was this woman so furious over a failed alchemy attempt?


    "Is that true?" the Alchemy Sage asked, turning to the servant.


    "No, no! How could I dare? I followed the alchemist''s instructions precisely, without the slightest deviation. She''s ming me because she failed!" the servant denied vehemently, refusing to admit fault.


    The Alchemy Sage''s eyes narrowed, staring at the servant.


    The servant''s body trembled instinctively, but he stubbornly refused to confess.


    More people gathered to watch. The crowd was growing.


    A servant sabotaging the process?


    "Friend Gan, I will thoroughly investigate this matter. As for your ruined batch, I can only express my regret. After the Grand Alchemy Gathering, I will give you a satisfactory exnation!" the Alchemy Sage said solemnly.


    The Alchemy Sage had also sensed something unusual about this servant. Moreover, many people in the imperial pce had be disloyal, a bad omen. If the emperor couldn''t control the pce staff, the Blue me Empire was indeed in danger.


    However, the Alchemy Sage could not punish the servant right now.


    If he punished the servant, he would have to redress Bao''er''s grievance, which would mean giving her a new set of herbs to try again. That would be easy enough, but what about everyone else who had failed? How would they be exined?


    In the midst of the brewing tension, the Grand Alchemy Gathering continued, each momentden with the potential for further conflict and intrigue.


    Those who had failed in their alchemy would naturally im that their servants had intentionally sabotaged them. If that happened, the Grand Alchemy Gathering would be aughingstock.


    For the sake of the greater good, the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage could only apologize to Bao''er.


    An exnation after the Grand Alchemy Gathering?


    Bao''er wasn''t a fool. She quickly realized the Alchemy Sage''s concerns and that he intended to sacrifice her results. She cast a cold nce at the Alchemy Sage.


    "Hmph!" Bao''er snorted coldly, then turned to re at the servant.


    "You will pay for today''s actions. No one can protect you!" Bao''er said icily.


    With that, Bao''er turned away from the servant and walked over to the remaining herbs.


    Seeing Bao''er not leave despite producing a failed batch, the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage frowned slightly, then sighed and turned his gaze to the servant, his eyes cold.


    Was Bao''er going to use the leftover herbs to try again?


    The spectators were puzzled. Bao''er had twelve types of herbs left, nine liang of each, which was not enough. Even for a fifth-grade pill, it wouldn''t be sufficient. Moreover, those twelve herbs couldn''t be used to make a pill at all.


    It was absolutely impossible to produce an eighth-grade pill with them!


    What was she nning?


    Bao''er didn''t give up. Instead, she re-divided the remaining herbs and then sequentially added portions to the furnace.


    Forming a hand seal, mes roared to life, and the furnace started operating again.


    Everyone watching Bao''er was taken aback. What was she doing? The remaining herbs were not even enough to serve as a catalyst. What was she nning?


    Alchemy?


    The servant, meanwhile, couldn''t stand the pressure any longer and tried to slip away quietly.


    "Leaving so soon?" A man in red suddenly appeared in front of the servant.


    Zhi Huo, following Zhong Shan''s instructions, blocked the servant.


    "What do you want?" the servant asked in panic.


    "Nothing much, just that you''re not allowed to leave," Zhi Huo replied coldly.


    With that, Zhi Huo sealed the servant''s power and brought him to Zhong Shan.


    "What are you doing?" the servant shouted.


    "Wait. Wait until she deals with you personally!" Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    "Do you know where you are? What are you trying to do? Alchemy Sage, save me!" the servant cried out.


    His shout immediately drew the attention of many onlookers.


    "Silence! Stay there and don''t go anywhere!" the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sagemanded coldly.


    The servant, frightened by the Alchemy Sage''smand, didn''t dare make another sound.


    Unable to leave, the servant''s gaze, along with everyone else''s, slowly turned to Bao''er, especially the Alchemy Sage, Xu Fu, and Crown Prince Chongtian.


    In the arena, some continued to fail, while others seeded in producing eighth-grade pills.


    As Bao''er continued, after initially adding the catalyst herbs to the furnace, everyone thought she was going to add the remaining herbs. Instead, she did something that stunned everyone.


    Bao''er waved her hand, and the medicinal residue from the failed batch was thrown into the furnace.


    The spectators, especially the failed alchemists, were wide-eyed. What was she doing? Using residue to make a pill? That was impossible. She couldn''t possibly produce an eighth-grade pill from residue. Absolutely impossible.


    However, Bao''er proceeded with unwavering determination. With a calm and focused demeanor, she continued the alchemical process, invoking spells and controlling the furnace with precision.


    As time passed, the anticipation grew. The murmurs of disbelief turned into hushed whispers of curiosity. What could Bao''er be nning?


    With the furnace zing and Bao''er''s intense concentration, it was clear she was attempting something extraordinary. The onlookers watched in awe, unable to look away from the unfolding spectacle.


    But the truth was as it seemed��Bao''er really did put the residue into the furnace. However, she only used a portion of the residue.


    At this moment, Bao''er restarted her alchemy. Although most people were skeptical, she continued her process.


    Zhong Shan turned to look at Crown Prince Chongtian from a distance, his eyes cold!


    Zhong Shan was not one to let things slide. Although he refrained from eliminating Crown Prince Chongtian to avoid alerting others, that didn''t mean he could tolerate his previous actions.


    With a cold smile at Crown Prince Chongtian, Zhong Shan shifted his gaze back to the arena.


    He focused on one of the alchemists from the Taishui Empire.


    Since Crown Prince Chongtian had acted, how could Zhong Shan, the aggrieved party, remain idle?


    Zhong Shan stared at the alchemist and the furnace before him, which was emitting puffs of purple mist that were being inhaled back into the furnace in a cyclical manner, as if the furnace was breathing.


    Fixing his gaze on the furnace, Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed. He released arge amount of colorless, odorless Hongluan Mist towards the furnace.


    The Hongluan Mist, known as the world''s most potent aphrodisiac, would certainly produce unexpected results when added to an alchemy furnace. Zhong Shan watched with anticipation.


    As the furnace continued to inhale and exhale, the Hongluan Mist flooded into it.


    The alchemist, sensing something amiss, couldn''t pinpoint the problem and continued his work despite his unease.


    Gradually, pink smoke began to emanate from the furnace.


    "Something''s wrong! Something''s wrong!" the alchemist muttered.


    "Boom��"


    A thunderous explosion erupted, the furnace suddenly blowing apart, not just breaking but exploding into pieces. The noise was like a thunderp on a clear day, startling countless onlookers.


    Some alchemists, shaken by the explosion, faltered in their work and ruined their batches.


    Frustrated and angry, those who failed due to the explosion turned to re at the Taishui Empire''s alchemist.


    They saw a huge crater where the furnace once stood, the alchemist covered in soot. The furnace was shattered, and nearby alchemists were also affected, their own furnaces disrupted and ruined.


    All the failed alchemists red fiercely at the Taishui Empire''s alchemist.


    The alchemist stood dumbfounded, unable to believe his furnace had exploded. How could this happen?


    The alchemist was brought back to Crown Prince Chongtian, still in a daze, unable toprehend how his furnace had exploded.


    Seeing him return, the other failed alchemists could only leave the arena, frustrated and bitter, forced to exit.


    Crown Prince Chongtian nced at the alchemist with a mix of surprise and anger.


    "Hmph!" Crown Prince Chongtian snorted coldly.


    "Forgive me, Your Highness. I don''t know what happened. It''s impossible! I''ve made that pill countless times without any issues!" the alchemist exined, confused.


    As a result, the Taishui Empire lost their chance topete for the Eternal Alchemy tform. Crown Prince Chongtian was furious, but now was not the time to act.


    "Everything will be addressed when we return!" Crown Prince Chongtian said coldly.


    "Yes," the alchemist replied, a hint of shame on his face.

 Chapter 572: Turning Waste into Pills

    <h4>Chapter 572: Turning Waste into Pills</h4>


    Another day passed.


    Only four people remained in the alchemy arena. Bao''er added the final bits of herbs into the furnace in a different sequence.


    Two more days went by, and almost everyone had either seeded in creating eighth-grade pills or failed, losing their chance topete for the Eternal Alchemy tform.


    The za was silent. Word had spread that the female alchemist was trying to make pills from waste residue.


    Impossible, absolutely impossible!


    Yet, the Alchemy Sage did not stop her, so everyone waited. Somehow, there was a glimmer of hope mixed with disbelief, a paradoxical feeling.


    Another day passed, and finally, Bao''er''s hand seals decreased the intensity of the mes, indicating the pill was about to form.


    Could she really seed?


    With a wave of her right hand, the lid of the furnace flew open.


    A burst of golden light shot out from the furnace.


    "It''s done? How is that possible? Pills from waste residue?" someone eximed.


    As a round, golden pill flew out of the furnace, everyone was stunned. She really did it. How could this be? This female alchemist was amazing!


    It seemed impossible!


    Not until Bao''er caught the pill on a jade te did everyone snap out of their trance, staring intently at the pill.


    "Alchemy Sage, please inspect it," Bao''er said seriously.


    The Alchemy Sage, filled with astonishment, examined the pill. He could achieve this too but didn''t expect Gan Bao''er to do it so effortlessly and sessfully.


    After a careful inspection, he dered, "An eighth-grade Bitter Vulture Pill! Congrattions, Friend Gan!"


    "Impossible, how can it be an eighth-grade pill?" someone shouted in disbelief.


    He couldn''t ept that the female alchemist seeded with waste residue, something he couldn''t do with proper herbs. It was too much to bear.


    The Alchemy Sage looked around. Everyone''s eyes mirrored the same disbelief.


    The Alchemy Sage smiled slightly, "Please pass it around for inspection."


    He handed the jade te out, and almost everyone eagerly wanted a closer look.


    Not far away, Crown Prince Chongtian''s eyes were filled with coldness. She seeded? Creating an eighth-grade pill from waste residue, while the Taishui Empire''s alchemist exploded his furnace? His face darkened.


    "Hmph!" Crown Prince Chongtian snorted coldly.


    But the snort was too soft for anyone to hear. Everyone''s focus was on the pill made from waste residue.


    Bao''er returned to Zhong Shan.


    "Master, I did not let you down!" Bao''er said excitedly to Zhong Shan.


    "I knew you could do it. Here is the servant who tampered with your work. You can deal with him," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Thank you," Bao''er nodded gratefully.


    "Blue me Emperor, Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage, do you have any objections?" Zhong Shan asked them.


    The Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage smiled wryly and nodded, while the Blue me Emperor, Lan Tianwei, looked coldly at the servant, "Emperor Zhong, Friend Gan has proven her point. This matter is our fault. You may deal with him as you see fit. I will not interfere."


    After Lan Tianwei spoke, the servant''s body tensed, his face filled with panic. He nced at Crown Prince Chongtian in the distance but didn''t dare to plead for help. Gritting his teeth, he faced Bao''er with a look of resigned determination and said, "I acted alone. Do what you will with me!"


    He admitted it? Everyone was shocked. This servant was courting death!


    Moreover, to cause trouble at the Grand Alchemy Gathering was to antagonize everyone present. Almost everyone red coldly at the servant.


    "Since the Blue me Emperor has said so, I won''t hold back. I need to trouble the Emperor with one more thing," Bao''er suddenly addressed Lan Tianwei.


    "Friend Gan, feel free to ask. As long as it is within my power," Lan Tianwei nodded.


    "I want the Blue me Emperor to investigate his entire family. I will exterminate his whole n!" Bao''er said coldly.


    Exterminate his whole n!


    The words from Bao''er''s mouth made everyone shudder.


    Exterminate his whole n? This woman was ruthless!


    Even the Blue me Emperor showed a hint of reluctance. This...


    The servant, hearing the words "exterminate his whole n," trembled. His earlier resolve to face death vanished, reced by sheer terror as he looked at Bao''er.


    Bao''er only showed her soft side to Zhong Shan. Against enemies, she was merciless and decisive. She believed that sparing enemies was akin to betraying oneself. Bao''er was not that kind of person.


    Killing him meant killing his entire n!


    The Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage frowned but said nothing. The Blue me Emperor, however, became hesitant.


    "Exterminate his whole n? Friend Gan, isn''t that too much?" the Blue me Emperor frowned.


    "Your Majesty, it''s all my fault. It has nothing to do with my family. Your Majesty!" the servant immediately knelt and kowtowed repeatedly.


    Bao''er looked at the Blue me Emperor in surprise. Was this the kind of statement an emperor would make?


    Could such a person be a great emperor?


    "Such a person doesn''t deserve to have their whole n exterminated!" a voice suddenly spoke up.


    Everyone turned to look and saw it was Xu Fu, the first toplete his pill.


    Xu Fu had watched Bao''er''s alchemy until the end, a hint of admiration in his eyes. When he saw Bao''er about to deal with the servant, he spoke up.


    "Sir, please persuade this Lady Gan. My family is innocent!" the servant pleaded to Xu Fu.


    Xu Fu looked at the servant with a cold smile, "Persuade? You brought this upon yourself. The Grand Alchemy Gathering cannot tolerate your impudence. I said his whole n shouldn''t be exterminated, not that they shouldn''t be punished. You deserve to have your nine ns exterminated!"


    With Xu Fu''s words, the servant froze.


    Exterminate nine ns? How ruthless!


    The servant shrank back in fear.


    Others looked at Xu Fu.


    "This is thew of Great Qin!" Xu Fu said solemnly.


    Thew of Great Qin? The crowd suppressed their unease.


    "Your Majesty, Your Majesty!" the servant again pleaded to the Blue me Emperor.


    "Friend Gan, I promised to give you an exnation earlier. Rest assured, I will fulfill your request," the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage suddenly spoke.


    With the Alchemy Sage''s words, the servant knew it was over. Pleading to the Blue me Emperor was useless now.


    Exterminate my entire n? Exterminate nine ns? Gan Bao''er''s demand was to exterminate the entire n. Would his whole n really be wiped out? He had acted so heroically just now, hoping to ensure a better future for his family. But now, it was all gone! All because of him!


    Turning his head, the servant looked towards Crown Prince Chongtian in the distance.


    "Crown Prince Chongtian, please save my family, save my family!" The servant immediately crawled towards Crown Prince Chongtian.


    "Get lost!" Crown Prince Chongtian kicked the man away.


    "Crown Prince Chongtian, I did everything you told me to do. Even if you won''t save me, at least save my family!" the servant cried out in terror.


    "Whoosh��"


    The servant''s plea instantly caused an uproar in the crowd.


    So, Crown Prince Chongtian was the mastermind behind this. No wonder he had entered so arrogantly before; he had nned this all along.


    "I knew it! He did it on purpose, even caused the furnace explosion to sabotage many alchemists!"


    "Does the Taishui Empire want to disrupt the Grand Alchemy Gathering''s rules? Is he challenging the whole world?"


    The crowd quickly began to discuss, their gazes turning usatory towards Crown Prince Chongtian, their collective rejection palpable.


    As the servant''s words echoed, he realized his mistake and looked up to meet Crown Prince Chongtian''s cold stare.


    From the start of the Grand Alchemy Gathering, Crown Prince Chongtian had been holding back his anger, which had been building up until it finally erupted.


    Rising, Crown Prince Chongtian stepped towards the servant.


    Suddenly, a golden foot, formed entirely of energy, appeared above the servant.


    With a mighty stomp, it brought down a vast pressure directly onto the servant.


    "Boom��"


    A thunderous crash echoed, leaving a ten-zhang footprint on the ground, sending a powerful wave of energy and dust in all directions.


    At this moment, everyone was abruptly reminded that Crown Prince Chongtian was an unparalleled powerhouse, with an Emperor''s realm cultivation and the Three-legged Golden Crow, capable of overwhelming most people here.


    "Crown Prince Chongtian, I demand an exnation!" the Alchemy Sage suddenly said coldly.


    An exnation for what? For that stomp, or for orchestrating the servant''s sabotage of the Grand Alchemy Gathering?


    Crown Prince Chongtian snorted coldly, ignoring the Alchemy Sage, and turned to Zhong Shan''s group.


    "Today''s humiliation, I will repay a hundredfold!" Crown Prince Chongtian''s voice was icy, sending shivers down the spines of those around him.


    "I will remember your words," Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    "Let''s go!" Crown Prince Chongtian turned and flew away.


    His followers quickly trailed behind him. For Crown Prince Chongtian, the chance topete for the Eternal Alchemy tform was lost. He had stayed only out of a lingering hope and curiosity about Bao''er''s results with the waste residue.


    Now, having incurred public wrath, there was no reason to stay. There was nothing left to keep them there.


    They came in high spirits but left in defeat.


    Crown Prince Chongtian''s mood was foul as he left, his departure ufortable.


    The others watched Crown Prince Chongtian leave in silence.


    Once he was gone, Bao''er turned to the Dragon and Tiger Alchemy Sage and said, "Thank you!"


    "It was the least I could do. I apologize for the trouble you faced," the Alchemy Sage said, a trace of guilt in his voice.


    Bao''er nodded, saying no more, and sat behind Zhong Shan. The icy, murderous demeanor she had disyed was gone, reced by a gentle, loving woman.


    Many who saw this scene swallowed hard, feeling a mix of emotions.

 Chapter 573: The Appearance of Zhong Xuan

    <h4>Chapter 573: The Appearance of Zhong Xuan</h4>


    On the day the Grand Alchemy Gatheringmenced, a strange visitor arrived on Tiang Ind, located in the southeast of Shenzhou.


    This person was dressed in a ck robe,pletely obscuring their appearance. Walking along the main street of Xuanjing, the individual gazed at each shop with apparent curiosity, as if savoring the sights.


    However, despite passing numerous stores, the ck-robed figure did not enter any of them.


    In a tavern along this street, a group of elderly men sat together, reminiscing about the past as they watched the bustling street. These old men were once residents of Xuancheng and had witnessed the rise of the Great Zhen Dynasty. The memories brought mixed emotions.


    One of them, leaning against the window with a wine cup in hand, was suddenly struck still, as if paralyzed.


    "Old Li, we were asking you something!" one of hispanions called out.


    But Old Li remained frozen, his eyes wide open.


    "Old Li, what''s wrong?" another man asked, and the others also turned their attention to him.


    "I... I think I just saw Zhong Xuan!" Old Li said.


    "How can that be? Zhong Xuan is long dead," apanion said incredulously.


    "I yed with Zhong Xuan when we were young. I remember his walking posture and his back. It was exactly the same!" Old Li insisted.


    "Where did you see him?" The others crowded around the window.


    "He''s gone now. He was wrapped in a ck robe and walked that way!" Old Li pointed.


    "Old Li, you''ve had too much to drink," another man said.


    "Yes, you always say such things after a few drinks. Last time, you even imed to have seen a Qingluan!" another added.


    "Did I really just imagine it?" Old Li shook his head, feeling a bit dizzy.


    Two hourster, in the east of Tiang Ind, at the foot of a high mountain.


    Emperor Xuan Sha stared coldly at the ck-robed figure before him.


    "Who are you?" Emperor Xuan Sha demanded.


    "That is not important. I am here to give you a warning," the ck-robed figure replied calmly.


    "Oh?" Emperor Xuan Sha''s gaze sharpened.


    "The Blue me Empire''s Grand Alchemy Gathering is a tumultuous event that has drawn the attention of the world''s powers. This gathering could trigger significant upheaval across Shenzhou, the beginning of chaos. The Emperor of Great Zhen is heading there, and will surely be involved in the conflict. Supreme of the Wolf n, you should prepare ordingly," the ck-robed figure said solemnly.


    "Why are you telling me this?" Emperor Xuan Sha asked, puzzled.


    The ck-robed figure bowed slightly and then turned to fly away.


    Emperor Xuan Sha did not stop him nor demand further exnation.


    Once the ck-robed figure had left, Emperor Xuan Sha stepped away from his spot.


    In the next moment, Emperor Xuan Sha appeared in a grand, cyan pce.


    "Guard Tiang Ind well. I need to go out for a while," Emperor Xuan Sha ordered.


    "Yes!" The dozen or so wolves, transformed into human shapes, nodded immediately.


    With a step, Emperor Xuan Sha vanished from the pce.


    In Blue me City, Crown Prince Chongtian led his subordinates and the alchemist out of the city swiftly.


    "Crown Prince Chongtian, I feel something was off. It wasn''t my fault!" the alchemist suddenly said.


    "What do you mean it wasn''t your fault?" Crown Prince Chongtian asked, slightly puzzled.


    "It''s definitely not my fault. I''ve refined that kind of pill many times without any issues. Someone must have tampered with it, just like that servant who tampered with Tai Dan Sect''s pills. Someone did the same to mine!" the alchemist dered with certainty.


    "Oh? Is that true?" Crown Prince Chong Tian looked at the alchemist gravely.


    "Absolutely. But who could have done it?" The alchemist frowned.


    "Who would dare tamper with your pills at the Grand Pill Assembly? Could Tai Dan Sect dare? It must be Long Hu Dan Sheng! Only he would dare!" said a subordinate nearby.


    "Long Hu Dan Sheng!" A cold light shed in Crown Prince Chong Tian''s eyes.


    "Shall we confront him, Your Highness?" the subordinate asked.


    "Hmph, there will be plenty of time for thatter. Lan Long Hu? He won''t be prancing around for much longer!" A trace of coldness flickered in Crown Prince Chong Tian''s eyes.


    At the Grand Pill Assembly site!


    Crown Prince Chong Tian, apanied by a group of Emperor-level experts, had already left. The assembly was to continue!


    Eighth-grade pills, refined with specific medicinal materials, had been sessfully created by only seventy-two people!


    All of them had earned the opportunity to ascend the Ancient Sage tform!


    Only by ascending the Ancient Sage tform could onepete for the title of ''Dan Sheng'' (Pill Sage)!


    With a wave of his hand, Dan Sheng (Pill Sage) had numerous servants quickly clean the square, removing all the pill furnaces and other items, leaving the ground spotless!


    Everyone watched Dan Sheng inplete silence.


    "Alright, including me, seventy-three people will enter the Ancient Sage tform! The rest of you may observe our pill refining and gain insights into your own pill-making paths. I hope that after this Grand Pill Assembly, everyone''s understanding of pill refining will reach a new level!" Dan Sheng said.


    "We obey Dan Sheng''smand!" Nearly everyone bowed respectfully.


    "You must all be curious why I chose this location for the Grand Pill Assembly!" Dan Sheng suddenly said.


    "Huh?" Almost everyone was slightly taken aback.


    "The world is divided into meridians andtitudes. Though invisible, they align with the rules of heaven. These meridians andtitudes connect thews of the world, running in all directions, forming the veins of heaven and earth. The ces where the world''s spiritual energy gathers most are often at the intersections of these meridians andtitudes. The spot under your feet is one such focal point. The Ancient Sage tform must be ced at this focal point to exert its effects!" Dan Sheng exined.


    The surrounding alchemists suddenly understood.


    "After this Grand Pill Assembly, if any alchemist stands out above all others, remember this: only at this focal point of meridians andtitudes can the Ancient Sage tform exert its miraculous effects, gathering the spiritual energy of all directions and umting the blessings of all directions to aid both people and pills!" Dan Sheng continued.


    "Thank you, Dan Sheng!" Almost everyone responded respectfully.


    Dan Sheng nodded, then looked up at the sky.


    With a sudden wave of his hand, a gust of wind blew away a cloud in the high sky.


    As the cloud dispersed, it revealed a circr metallic object above.


    Is that the Ancient Sage tform?


    The moment the cloud scattered, the Ancient Sage tform fell straight down, descending into the imperial city,nding in the square where everyone stood.


    "Boom~~~"


    The loud noise in the square wasn''t from the Ancient Sage tform hitting the ground but from the impact''s generated air current.


    The Ancient Sage tform, just an inch from the ground, suddenly stopped.


    Mysterious earth-yellow energy sprouted from the ground, connecting to the golden Ancient Sage tform.


    The tform was enormous��circr and golden, spanning a diameter of about a thousand zhang, nearly covering half the square.


    Surrounding it were nine steps leading directly to the tform''s top. The tform itself was divided into three rings. The innermost ring was a central circr area. The second ring contained sixteen equally sized circr areas, slightly smaller than the central one. The outermost ring had sixty-four circr areas, each smaller than the ones inside.


    As everyone examined the Ancient Sage tform, countless streams of luck and merit gathered above it, as if the tform itself had the ability to collect them. Though the amount of luck wasparable to that of a royal dynasty, and the merit wasn''t as exaggerated as a holynd, the harmonious blend of luck and merit was intriguing.


    Long Hu Dan Sheng stepped forward, ascending the Ancient Sage tform step by step.


    Standing above, he looked around and dered, "Seventy-two alchemists, you may now choose your pill pools! There are eighty-one pill pools in total: one main pool, sixteen secondary pools, and sixty-four auxiliary pools. Select your pool and prepare to refine your strongest divine pill! Each alchemist may bring only two assistants onto the tform!"


    A divine pill must reach the ninth grade to be so named. The ultimate goal was to refine the world''s strongest pill, a divine pill!


    "How long will it take?" Zhong Shan asked Bao''er.


    "To refine a ninth-grade pill, it takes at least a month. But I''m not preparing to refine a ninth-grade pill! My pill will take at least three months," Bao''er replied with a smile.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    Not preparing to refine a ninth-grade pill? Could she be aiming for an immortal pill?


    Zhong Shan showed a hint of surprise.


    Seeing his expression, Bao''er yfully blinked her eyes.


    "Are you confident?" Zhong Shan asked, astonished.


    An immortal pill? That would be too incredible!


    "With the Ancient Pill Scroll, the Heaven and Earth Xuan Huang Cauldron, and soon the Ancient Sage tform, I have about a sixty percent chance. Otherwise, why would I gather so many medicinal materials? However, I want to refine something even better, so I need Ling''er''s help!" Bao''er suddenly looked at Ling''er.


    "Me?" A trace of surprise shed in Ling''er''s eyes.


    "Indeed, I need to borrow your Vermilion Bird. I might need the South Ming Lihuo during the process!" Bao''er confirmed.


    "South Ming Lihuo? The fire from Xiao Hong? Don''t worry, sister, I''ll make it help you. If it doesn''t, I won''t give it any food!" Ling''er immediately said.


    The Vermilion Bird, eating Fire Spirit Rice nearby, froze upon hearing Ling''er''s words.


    "Be careful!" Zhong Shan cautioned.


    "Mm!" Bao''er nodded.


    "Ling''er, Zhihuo, you twoe with me onto the tform!" Bao''er said.


    The two nodded. Ling''er managed the Vermilion Bird, while Zhihuo, naturally adept with fire spells, would assist in controlling the mes during the pill refining. Bao''er would handle the primary incantations, with Zhihuo aiding in me control due to his fire cultivation.


    The alchemists, each apanied by two assistants, ascended the Ancient Sage tform.


    Xu Fu only brought Bai Ye, as the Great Qin Empire had only two participants.


    "Have you chosen your pill pools? Be careful��the closer to the center, the higher the requirements for the pill furnace! Though I am dedicated to pill refining and have a ninth-grade pill furnace, I can only ce it in one of the sixteen secondary pools. I dare not touch the central pool!" Dan Sheng warned.


    After Dan Sheng''s words, nearly all the alchemists were filled with astonishment. Even a ninth-grade pill furnace couldn''t enter the central pool?

 Chapter 574: The Hidden Emergence of the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince

    <h4>Chapter 574: The Hidden Emergence of the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince</h4>


    "That pill pool, only one person can enter!" Xu Fu suddenly announced.


    "Huh?" All the alchemists were slightly taken aback, even Long Hu Dan Sheng looked at Xu Fu in surprise.


    Xu Fu, although an unfamiliar name until now, was not to be underestimated. After all, anyone who could ascend the Ancient Sage tform was worthy of respect. Moreover, Xu Fu was the first to refine an eighth-grade pill and represented the Great Qin Empire, so naturally, his words were taken seriously.


    "Oh? Is what Daoist Xu said true?" Long Hu Dan Sheng asked with a slight frown.


    "Whether it''s true or not depends on Daoist Gan!" Xu Fu suddenly looked at Bao''er.


    The alchemists were first surprised, then turned their curious gazes towards Bao''er. Bao''er''s information was quickly recalled from their memories.


    Tai Dan Sect! An ancient sect now allied with an empire!


    Her?


    Bao''er also looked at Xu Fu in surprise. He knew?


    From the moment Xu Fu mentioned ''Ancient Pill Sect,'' Bao''er had a bad feeling. She never expected Xu Fu to know even this.


    "Daoist Gan, is it true?" Long Hu Dan Sheng asked.


    "Indeed, our Tai Dan Sect has a history of producing Pill Sages. Our Heaven and Earth Xuan Huang Cauldron can withstand the central pill pool!" Bao''er immediately nodded.


    In the past, Tai Dan Sect had never used the central pill pool, but now Bao''er had no choice but to agree. She didn''t want the news of the Ancient Pill Sect to spread further.


    "Heaven and Earth Xuan Huang Cauldron, so that''s it!" Dan Sheng sighed.


    Clearly, the Heaven and Earth Xuan Huang Cauldron was renowned throughout the ages.


    The alchemists were envious, though jealousy lingered among some.


    "However, everyone need not overly concern themselves with the pill pools. The eighty-one pill pools each have unique benefits. The closer to the center, the better it isn''t necessarily for everyone. The pill pool I usually use is one of the outermost ones. Now, select your pill pools, and let''s begin refining the divine pills!" Dan Sheng dered.


    At Dan Sheng''s words, everyone nodded. Their jealousy towards Bao''er also diminished.


    Each chose their pill pool, and naturally, Bao''er chose the central one, specifically designed for the Heaven and Earth Xuan Huang Cauldron.


    Ling''er and Zhihuo followed her.


    Arriving at the pill pool, Bao''er waved her hand, and a huge pill furnace thunderously fell into the pool. Instantly, the merits and luck above seemed drawn to it, flowing into the central pill pool and merging with the furnace.


    Not only Bao''er, but the other seventy-two ces also experienced the same.


    Xu Fu''s pill furnacended in the second ring, while Long Hu Dan Sheng''s pill furnace was in the third ring. Thus, the pill refining began.


    As the mes ignited under the furnaces, countless spiritual energies from all directions swirled towards the Ancient Sage tform, continuously converging at the various alchemists. Simultaneously, numerous streams of luck and merit were also drawn in.


    The enormous Ancient Sage tform immediately radiated billions of golden rays, appearing resplendent and iparably sacred! It was invible!


    Everyone below was in awe, their attention focused intently on the alchemists'' refining techniques, especially on Long Hu Dan Sheng, whose methods drew the most onlookers.


    The Grand Pill Assembly had officially reached its climax! The crowd was bustling!


    The alchemists exchanged insights and observed the techniques of those on the tform. The crowd grew increasingly lively and noisy.


    In the northern square, Zhong Shan remained still, quietly waiting for Bao''er toplete her pill.


    The next day!


    Zhong Shan continued to wait, ying a game of Go with Qian You to pass the time while awaiting Bao''er''s return. Nearby, Emperor Lan Yan was also waiting for Long Hu Dan Sheng.


    "Your Majesty, Your Majesty!" Suddenly, a courtier rushed in frantically.


    "Chancellor, what''s the matter?" Emperor Lan Yanwei asked.


    "Your Majesty, an envoy from the Yan Hong Empire requests an audience!" the chancellor said urgently.


    An envoy from the Yan Hong Empire? Zhong Shan, who was ying Go, suddenly paused. The Yan Hong Empire was established by Xiao Wang, and recently, Zhong Shan had encountered Jian Hong and Xiao Wang''s son, Xiao Zhongxing, who was the emperor of the Yan Hong Empire. The Yan Hong Empire was to the west of the Blue me Empire, with another empire, the Taishui Empire, in between.


    "The Yan Hong Empire? What urgent matter brings them here? Let theme here to speak!" Lan Yanwei said in a deep voice.


    "Your Majesty!" The chancellor seemed anxious, ncing around at the many people present but saying nothing more.


    "I amprehending the pill refining techniques of my great-uncle. Either wait until the Grand Pill Assembly is over or let theme here!" Lan Yanwei said impatiently.


    Comprehending pill refining techniques? Zhong Shan was slightly stunned. This emperor was truly indulgent, neglecting state affairs like a mundane emperor obsessed with learning medicine instead of governing. Such an emperor might have a deep talent for pill refining but was certainly not apetent ruler.


    The chancellor sighed slightly and left. Soon, an old man with white hair was brought in.


    "The envoy from Yan Hong greets Emperor Lan Yan!" The old man bowed immediately upon seeing Lan Yanwei.


    "Oh? What brings Xiao Zhongxing to send you to me?" Lan Yanwei asked.


    "His Majesty is currently in seclusion. After a discussion among the ministers, I was sent to the Blue me Empire," the old man said anxiously.


    "Acting on your own? You''ve got some nerve!" Lan Yanwei said with a look of surprise.


    "It''s not that I acted on my own, but we had no other choice. His Majesty is in seclusion, and we cannot disturb him. I had to act on my own. Please, Emperor Lan Yan, save our Yan Hong Empire!" the old man pleaded anxiously.


    Seclusion? Zhong Shan knew that Xiao Zhongxing was not in seclusion; he was on his way to the Underworld Heaven.


    "Save? What do you mean by that?" Lan Yanwei asked, puzzled.


    "The Taishui Empire has already conquered our western empire and is now preparing to attack our cities. When I left, they were attacking Ruyan City, and they might have taken it by now. The Taishui Empire''s forces are too strong; we can''t resist them. We are asking Emperor Lan Yan to send troops and save our empire!" The old man suddenly knelt, pleading earnestly.


    Zhong Shan couldn''t help but feel a pang of admiration for the old man''s loyalty and dedication.


    The Taishui Empire is attacking the Yan Hong Empire? Lan Yanwei frowned, sensing the gravity of the situation.


    "Your Majesty, if the lips are gone, the teeth will feel the cold. Though the Yan Hong Empire is small, it is close to our empire. The Taishui Empire has just destroyed another empire and is now targeting the Yan Hong Empire. If the Yan Hong Empire falls, we will face the Taishui Empire directly. It is better to stop them now than to fight themter!" the chancellor advised.


    "Please, Emperor Lan Yan, send troops!" The old man on the ground begged.


    Lan Yanwei furrowed his brows and pondered. "Could this be a conflict between the Yan Hong Empire and the Taishui Empire, trying to drag us into their war?"


    "Emperor Lan Yan, there is no such thing! We have no enmity with the Taishui Empire; they are purely invading us!" the old man quickly exined.


    "Your Majesty, the Taishui Empire''s invasion is real. The front lines have sent a deration of war filled with baseless usations!" the chancellor supported.


    "But what if it truly is a conflict between the two empires? Originally, it didn''t concern us, but now it would set up a major enemy for us. This matter must be handled with caution!" Lan Yanwei said solemnly.


    Zhong Shan was stunned. Caution? What kind of caution was needed here? Regardless of whether it was a conflict between the two empires, help was necessary! Without this ally, wouldn''t it be much easier for the Taishui Empire to attack the Blue me Empire next?


    "Your Majesty, the Yan Hong Empire has always been a vassal to our empire and is considered our ally. No matter the cause, when an ally is in trouble, we must assist them," the chancellor advised urgently.


    Hearing the chancellor''s advice, Lan Yanwei furrowed his brows in thought. He realized that an ally in trouble must indeed be helped. But still...


    "You say the Taishui Empire is advancing aggressively?" Lan Yanwei asked.


    "Yes! They have mobilized an army of three hundred thousand, directly threatening our empire," the old envoy responded immediately.


    "Who is leading the army?" Lan Yanwei inquired.


    "The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince," the old man replied with a bitter expression.


    "The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince?" Lan Yanwei''s eyes tightened.


    Zhong Shan''s hand, holding a Go piece, froze. The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince? The one who killed Kui''er?


    "Snap!"


    The Go piece between Zhong Shan''s fingers shattered under his uncontrolled grip.


    "The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince? It seems the Yan Hong Empire is doomed," the chancellor sighed, shaking his head.


    Apparently, the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince''s fearsome reputation was too overwhelming in the westernnds of Shenzhou. Just hearing his name made the chancellor lose hope.


    "The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince? Why is he suddenly leading an expedition?" Lan Yanwei mused.


    "The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince''s past victories are well known. If he goes to war, he is certain to win! He conquered two empires in his youth. Sending troops now would be futile!" The chancellor sighed again.


    "Emperor Lan Yan, you cannot watch the Yan Hong Empire be destroyed. We are your allies!" the old envoy pleaded desperately.


    Allies! Yes, an ally asking for help and being refused��who would want to be allies with the Blue me Empire after that? But sending troops would be futile against the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince''s might.


    "This is..." Emperor Lan Yan was visibly troubled.


    "Emperor Lan Yan, if you do not send troops today, the Blue me Empire will have no allies in the future. For the sake of the empire''s future, please send troops!" The old envoy became stubborn.


    The old envoy knew that if he showed any more weakness, Emperor Lan Yan would refuse to send troops. He had to force the issue.


    But Emperor Lan Yancked Zhong Shan''s strategic prowess. Once he wavered, it would be hard for him to act decisively again.


    Seeing Emperor Lan Yan''s hesitation, the old envoy''s face showed a trace of sorrow.


    "Emperor Lan Yan!" Zhong Shan suddenly spoke.


    "Hmm?" Everyone looked at Zhong Shan in surprise.


    "I have a past connection with Xiao Zhongxing. I am willing to go on behalf of the Blue me Empire!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh? Emperor Zhong wants to go? That''s perfect. You are a formidable figure in the east of Shenzhou, and the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince is a formidable figure in the west. Perhaps you can stop the Taishui Empire''s advance!" Lan Yanwei''s eyes lit up.


    "Who is this?" The old envoy looked at Zhong Shan in confusion.


    "This is the famous Zhong Shan, Emperor of the Great Zheng Empire!" Lan Yanwei introduced.


    Hearing it was Zhong Shan, the old envoy''s eyes lit up with excitement. He immediately bowed repeatedly to Zhong Shan. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!"


    Zhong Shan helped the old envoy up and turned to Emperor Lan Yan. "I will lead the troops on behalf of the Blue me Empire, but I hope the Blue me Empire can provide me with some forces."

 Chapter 575: Reclaiming Zhao Suoxiang

    <h4>Chapter 575: Reiming Zhao Suoxiang</h4>


    Zhong Shan helped the old envoy up and looked at Emperor Lan Yan. "I will lead the troops on behalf of the Blue me Empire, but I hope the Blue me Empire can provide me with some soldiers."


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s request for troops, Emperor Lan Yan frowned, his face showing a hint of reluctance.


    Zhong Shan felt a tinge of cold amusement. This emperor was truly disappointing.


    "How many do you need?" Emperor Lan Yan asked, somewhat unwillingly.


    After all, an ally in trouble must be helped, but Emperor Lan Yan didn''t want to deplete his own army.


    "Emperor Lan Yan, I believe that no matter how many soldiers are taken, there will inevitably be losses when contending with the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince. At least ten thousand, if not more," Zhong Shan stated.


    Lan Yanwei frowned, thinking it over. He knew Zhong Shan was understating it; fighting the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince would likely cost at least a hundred thousand lives, if not more.


    "I''ll budget for five thousand soldiers lost," Zhong Shan said.


    "Five thousand?" Lan Yanwei was taken aback, finding it hard to believe.


    "Five thousand won''t be enough, but I think five thousand will surely die. I only need a battalion of five thousand soldiers," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Really?" Lan Yanwei''s eyes brightened.


    Five thousand? Just five thousand? That was a drop in the ocean for the Blue me Empire, hardly worth mentioning. Even if they all died, it wouldn''t matter much. But was it really just five thousand?


    "A ruler''s words are not to be taken lightly. My words are as weighty as Mount Tai. However, these five thousand soldiers are to be given, not lent. If they all die, don''t feel sorry, and if they survive, I won''t return them to you," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    Lan Yanwei found Zhong Shan''s request peculiar, but it was too good an offer to refuse.


    "Agreed!" Lan Yanwei readily epted.


    Only five thousand soldiers lost would fulfill the ally''s agreement without significant loss.


    "Thank you, Emperor Lan Yan. I specifically request the Iron Spear Battalion under your Third Legion," Zhong Shan said.


    "The Iron Spear Battalion?" Lan Yanwei looked at Zhong Shan with suspicion.


    He had only heard a little about the Iron Spear Battalion. Why did Zhong Shan specifically ask for them? Lan Yanwei eyed Zhong Shan with a hint of doubt.


    "Iron Spear Battalion''s Zhao Suoxiang is an old friend of mine," Zhong Shan exined.


    With Zhong Shan''s exnation, Lan Yanwei understood and nodded in agreement.


    "Very well, I will transfer the Iron Spear Battalion to you," Lan Yanwei said, satisfied.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Chancellor, please take this gentleman to the Iron Spear Battalion and ry Emperor Lan Yan''s orders. I will be there shortly," Zhong Shan instructed the chancellor.


    "Go ahead, as I have said," Lan Yanwei added sternly.


    "Yes!" The chancellor nodded.


    "Thank you, Emperor Zhong, thank you, Emperor Lan Yan!" The old envoy bowed gratefully, following the chancellor out.


    Zhong Shan needed to inform Qian You and the others.


    "Are you really going?" Qian You asked, a hint of worry in her voice.


    "Yes, I need to meet this Sky-Splitting Crown Prince," Zhong Shan said resolutely.


    "I''ll go with you!" Gu Qian You said.


    "No, all of you stay here. I''ll be back soon," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "But��" Qian You started to protest.


    "My decision is final!" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    The others knew better than to argue and could only await his orders.


    "Alright then, I know I can''t persuade you, but you must restrain yourself, you must!" Gu Qian You said worriedly.


    "Mm!"


    "Think about me, Bao''er, and Ling''er. Think about us. You mustn''t let anything happen to you!" Gu Qian You urged again.


    "I know. I will stay calm. I have you all, people I cherish, and I must return. Besides, you know my strength. I will return safely. I''ll be back before Bao''er finishes refining her pill," Zhong Shan assured her with confidence.


    "Mm," Qian You nodded.


    After reassuring Qian You, Zhong Shan looked at the others.


    "Remember, after I leave, everyone follows Gu Qian You''s orders. Her words are mymands!" Zhong Shan ordered sternly.


    "Yes!" everyone responded immediately.


    After giving his instructions, Zhong Shan followed a servant, quickly heading to the Iron Spear Battalion.


    At the Grand Pill Assembly, with Qian You''s wisdom and the presence of numerous Imperial-level subordinates, Zhong Shan was confident that no harm woulde to them.


    Zhong Shan soon arrived at the military camp west of Blue me City.


    The old envoy, the chancellor of the Blue me Empire, and Zhao Suoxiang of the Iron Spear Battalion were already waiting.


    The old envoy looked hopeful, the chancellor smiled, but Zhao Suoxiang had a stern expression.


    "Then I''ll leave it to Emperor Zhong!" the chancellor said cheerfully.


    Indeed, for an empire, five thousand soldiers were a drop in the ocean. Besides, the chancellor had investigated and found nothing extraordinary about this battalion��they were just armed with spears and had somewhat strongerbat abilities. As for the battalion leader, Zhao Suoxiang, he was only at the peak of the Nascent Soul stage. Such people weremon in the Blue me Empire.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "No need for thanks, Emperor Zhong. Since I''ve handed over the troops, I''ve fulfilled my mission. I must return to report to His Majesty. Farewell!" the chancellor said quickly, fearing Zhong Shan might make further requests.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded, sending the chancellor off.


    "Are you worried that following me will mean certain death?" Zhong Shan asked Zhao Suoxiang.


    "My Iron Spear Battalion consists of men unafraid of death. Why would we fear it?" Zhao Suoxiang replied solemnly, though his face remained tense.


    "Then are you upset that I took the Iron Spear Battalion from Lan Yanwei?" Zhong Shan asked with a wry smile.


    Zhao Suoxiang remained silent, clearly harboring some resentment.


    "We share a bond of brotherhood that I, Zhong Shan, will never forget. As a mortal, you were the first to speak on my behalf to the sects, pleading for them to ept me as a disciple. When the Zhong family faced difficulties at the beginning of my cultivation journey, you stood by me without hesitation. I value this brotherhood deeply. But given my current circumstances, my future will be fraught with endless challenges. Someday, you and I might face each other on the battlefield, and I don''t want that to happen," Zhong Shan said sincerely.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s heartfelt words, Zhao Suoxiang''s stern expression gradually softened, reced by a look of deep emotion.


    "Though my actions today in requesting the Iron Spear Battalion from Lan Yanwei may seem opportunistic, even exploiting a friend in need, my intentions are genuine. Rather than facing off on the battlefield someday, I would rather endure some humiliation now. If I''ve offended you, brother, I apologize sincerely," Zhong Shan said, bowing deeply to Zhao Suoxiang.


    As Zhong Shan bowed deeply, Zhao Suoxiang''s previous difort vanished. He quickly moved to stop Zhong Shan''s gesture.


    "Zhong Shan, what are you doing? My life was saved by you, and my Iron Spear Battalion was also saved by you. If anyone has wronged the other, it''s me who has wronged you! Now that the Blue me Empire''s debt of gratitude is repaid, I won''t stay here any longer. From now on, I''ll follow you and fight for you, even if it''s just as a humble soldier!" Zhao Suoxiang said earnestly.


    Zhao Suoxiang was sincere. Under Zhong Shan''s heartfelt appeal, he resolved his inner conflict and was wholeheartedly willing to repay Zhong Shan''s great kindness.


    "Hahaha, good! With those words, Zhao, even if it means doing the most disgraceful tasks, I, Zhong Shan, would willingly do them. As for you joining the Great Zheng Empire, how could you only be a humble soldier? Just the name Zhao Suoxiang is enough to make you one of my empire''s pirs. From today, I appoint you, Zhao Suoxiang, as themander of the Eighth Corps of the Great Zheng Empire!" Zhong Shan said joyfully.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Zhao Suoxiang immediately saluted with respect.


    "You and I don''t need such formalities," Zhong Shan said, trying to stop Zhao Suoxiang.


    But Zhao Suoxiang respectfullypleted his salute.


    "Etiquette must be maintained, especially in public. You are the emperor and must have the dignity of one. If I amx, it will not benefit your rule in the future," Zhao Suoxiang shook his head, exining.


    "Alright, as you wish. Gather the troops; we will set off immediately!" Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood!" Zhao Suoxiang nodded and left.


    Zhong Shan then turned to the old envoy from the Yan Hong Empire.


    "Tell me about the current situation of the Yan Hong Empire. I need to understand the circumstances," Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes! Twenty days ago, before I came to the Blue me Empire, the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince''s army was attacking our border city, Ruyan City. With his capabilities, he likely has taken it by now. The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince has split his forces into five directions, undoubtedly advancing towards the capital, Yan Hong City. With our emperor in seclusion and unable to make decisions, the old ministers are likely moving troops from the eastern cities to the west," the old envoy reported.


    "Alright. Use any means to send a message back, stating that the Blue me Empire is sending troops and fully supporting the Yan Hong Empire," Zhong Shan ordered after some thought.


    "Yes!" the old envoy replied immediately.


    The old envoy understood Zhong Shan''s intention. Although the Blue me Empire only sent a negligible five thousand soldiers, the news should be exaggerated to stabilize morale and reassure both the popce and the military of the Yan Hong Empire.


    "As for us, we''ll head straight to Yan Hong City. With Xiao Zhongxing absent from the capital, it is the most critical stronghold. If the capital falls, the nation falls. If it stands, the enemy can be repelled," Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "The emperor is in the city, he is��" the old envoy started to argue but stopped when he saw Zhong Shan''s displeased look.


    Before long, Zhao Suoxiang had the Iron Spear Battalion ready. He exined their destination to the soldiers, who showed no fear, even against the Taishui Empire. They would follow Zhao Suoxiang anywhere, demonstrating the spirit of their army and theirmander.


    The army advanced westward towards the Yan Hong Empire.


    Fifteen dayster, they entered the Yan Hong Empire''s territory. The old envoy went to ry the message, while Zhong Shan and Zhao Suoxiang stood on a cloud, leading the army forward.


    "Old Zhao, I need to ask you a favor," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Your Majesty, please speak!" Zhao Suoxiang was surprised to see Zhong Shan so solemn.


    "I''m worried I might lose control when the timees, so I need you to wake me up," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Lose control?" Zhao Suoxiang was taken aback.


    To Zhao Suoxiang, Zhong Shan was the epitome of calmness. Of all the people he knew, no one was asposed as Zhong Shan. No matter the situation, Zhong Shan was always steady and unshakeable. How could anything cause Zhong Shan to lose control?


    "Just in case," Zhong Shan said, looking into the distance. The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince was a formidable enemy, and the potential for personal turmoil loomedrge.

 Chapter 576: Stepfather Zhong Shan

    <h4>Chapter 576: Stepfather Zhong Shan</h4>


    "You''re right. I might really lose control, but I have to face it!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Oh? Who could make you lose control?" Zhao Suoxiang frowned.


    "I can only say it''s a possibility. He is the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath, his eyes gradually filling with bloodshot veins.


    "The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince?"


    Zhong Shan then briefly recounted Kui''er''s story to Zhao Suoxiang.


    "So, the Empress died at his hands! But Your Majesty, are you going to see him now?" Zhao Suoxiang frowned deeply.


    "This is a knot in my heart, a mountain pressing down on me. I must face him sooner orter. The longer I wait, the worse it is for me. I can feel my hatred growing over the years. If I don''t confront him, this hatred will consume me. This time, facing him, regardless of the oue, I can relieve some of the anger in my heart," Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "What if you lose control when you see him? That would be very disadvantageous for you!" Zhao Suoxiang expressed his concern.


    "That''s why I need you to remind me, even snap me out of it!" Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "But what if you don''t wake up?" Zhao Suoxiang frowned.


    "Then shout the names of my empresses. That should do it," Zhong Shan thought for a moment and suggested.


    "But..." Zhao Suoxiang hesitated.


    "No buts!" Zhong Shan said decisively.


    "Don''t worry. I can ensure my safety. If I do lose control, take the Iron Spear Battalion and retreat quickly. Don''t worry about me; I''ll find a way to get out!" Zhong Shan reassured.


    "Understood!" Zhao Suoxiang nodded.


    After another ten days, Zhong Shan arrived at Yan Hong City.


    Yan Hong City, the capital of the Yan Hong Empire.


    After the old minister brought back news of reinforcements from the Blue me Empire, morale was restored, the people were reassured, and the military became more disciplined. Reinforcements from various cities also became more united.


    In the court, the old envoy exined the situation to the key officials.


    When they heard that only five thousand soldiers were sent, nearly everyone was stunned, followed by a wave of anger towards Lan Yanwei.


    But when they learned Zhong Shan wasing, everyone''s eyes lit up.


    Who was Zhong Shan? Among the rulers of the world''s dynasties, who didn''t know Zhong Shan?


    "How did you manage to invite such a powerful figure?"


    The pressure from the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince''s impending attack was greatly alleviated.


    "Duke Wei, is it true? Is he really Zhong Shan?"


    "Absolutely!"


    Zhong Shan arrived in Yan Hong City, and the ministers fully supported him without reservation.


    There was no need for precautions against him; Zhong Shan''s foundation was in the east of Shenzhou, while this was the west. He couldn''t possibly annex the Yan Hong Empire, and given their dire situation, they had to trust him.


    On the way, Zhong Shan had already studied various strategies. Upon arrival, he immediately organized and deployed troops. Units of soldiers were swiftly arranged and dispatched, with all movements under Zhong Shan''smand.


    With the city fortified, Zhong Shan also set up defensive positions in Yan Hong City, waiting for the Taishui Empire''s army to attack.


    Zhong Shan knew he couldn''t stop the Taishui Empire''s advance any longer. The Taishui Empire had just taken another city, and the next target was Yan Hong City.


    Currently, the Taishui Empire''s army was stationed in the recently captured Jian Hong City.


    In the main hall of the City Lord''s mansion in Jian Hong City, a man in a golden robe sat at themand desk. His face exuded arrogance and pride, with a vertical slit on his forehead, as if hiding a third eye within.


    On themand desky various intelligence reports. The man in the golden robe silently reviewed them, his expression unreadable. This man was Zhong Shan''s greatest enemy, his fated adversary, the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince of the Taishui Empire.


    As the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince reviewed the reports, a group of subordinates stood before him. Among them were some familiar faces to Zhong Shan.


    One was the Crown Prince Chong Tian, who had recently suffered a setback at the Grand Pill Assembly due to Zhong Shan.


    Another was Monk Seke, formerly a member of the Demon Legion, bearing the ''Yao'' character divine seal on his forehead.


    Yet another was Wang Chen, previously Zhong Shan''s adopted son, known as Zhong Shijiu. To forget his past, he had renamed himself ''Wang Chen.''


    There were others whom Zhong Shan did not recognize.


    "Third Brother, is that him? Is that Zhong Shan? He''s the one who humiliated me at the Grand Pill Assembly!" Chong Tian Crown Prince said angrily.


    "Zhong Shan?" The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince narrowed his eyes as a magical projection of Zhong Shan appeared before him.


    "Third Brother, let me kill him. I will tear him to pieces!" Chong Tian Crown Prince demanded.


    "Zhong Shan is indeed capable. He just arrived a few days ago, and his deployment has already neutralized our offensive," the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince said in a deep voice.


    "Master, this Zhong Shan is extremely dangerous. Many of our people have already fallen to him. We must eliminate him, or he will be a perpetual threat to us!" Monk Seke suddenly shouted.


    "Oh? Do you also want to go?" The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince looked at Monk Seke.


    Monk Seke shivered and immediately shook his head, "Master, I don''t dare face him. I won''t go!"


    Seeing Monk Seke''s cowardice, everyone else showed disdain, especially Chong Tian Crown Prince, who looked down on Monk Seke and couldn''t understand why his third brother valued him so much.


    "Master, I am willing to go and cut down Zhong Shan!" another general volunteered.


    "Master, let me go..." Several subordinates quickly stepped forward to request the mission.


    "Wang Chen, what about you?" The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince suddenly focused on Wang Chen, narrowing his eyes.


    Wang Chen took a deep breath and said, "Master, Zhong Shan was once my adopted father."


    "Huh?" Almost everyone was suddenly stunned, their mouths agape.


    They couldn''t believe it. Wang Chen''s adopted father? Was this true?


    Wang Chen was highly valued by the master, renowned for his strategy and talent. Could he really be Zhong Shan''s adopted son?


    The news was mind-boggling. Monk Seke, suffering from a sort of ''Zhong Shan phobia,'' involuntarily stepped aside after hearing Wang Chen''s words.


    The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince stared at Wang Chen, showing no surprise, as if he already knew.


    "Oh? Then you should know Zhong Shan best. What kind of person is he?" The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince asked calmly.


    "I... I don''t know him very well," Wang Chen replied ambiguously.


    "What do you mean you don''t know him well? How could you not know him if you were his adopted son?" Chong Tian Crown Prince interjected.


    Wang Chen turned to Chong Tian Crown Prince, his eyes showing no fear, but a calm and authoritative demeanor. "Seventh Prince, I''ll say it again. I <i>was</i> Zhong Shan''s adopted son. Now, I am only a subordinate of the master."


    "You!" Chong Tian Crown Prince was infuriated that a mere Nascent Soul cultivator dared to talk back to him.


    "Seventh Brother, let him speak," the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince said.


    Wang Chen continued, "Zhong Shan is an exceptionally shrewd and calcting person. His strength lies not just in his power but in his strategic mind. He has a way of turning the tides even in the most unfavorable situations. That''s what makes him dangerous."


    The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince nodded thoughtfully. "And what do you suggest we do about him?"


    Wang Chen hesitated, then replied, "Zhong Shan''s strengthes from his unpredictability and his connections. If we can undermine his support and iste him, we stand a better chance of defeating him."


    "Interesting. So you believe weakening his alliances and isting him is the key?" The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince asked, his interest piqued.


    "Yes, Master. That''s the most effective strategy," Wang Chen affirmed.


    The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince leaned back, contemting Wang Chen''s words. "Very well. We will proceed with caution. For now, let''s focus on our immediate objectives. Wang Chen, I want you to lead a reconnaissance mission to gather more intelligence on Zhong Shan''s movements. Chong Tian, you will prepare the main forces for an eventual confrontation."


    "Yes, Master!" both Wang Chen and Chong Tian Crown Prince responded in unison.


    The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince turned his gaze back to the reports, a cunning smile ying on his lips. The battle with Zhong Shan was far from over, and he relished the challenge ahead.


    Crown Prince Chong Tian could only grit his teeth in silence.


    "I know Zhong Shan, yet I don''t understand Zhong Shan," Wang Chen continued. "He had over a hundred adopted sons, but no one fully understands him. He''s like a mystery, starting as a mere mortal, struggling and crawling his way up. In my memory, nothing could stop him besides his own strength. His natural talent was extremely poor, destined to remain a mortal for life. But somehow, around a hundred years ago, he suddenly got lucky, breaking through to the Xiantian stage and reaching his current achievements in one fell swoop!"


    "Oh? Then why don''t you acknowledge him anymore?" the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince asked calmly.


    "Heh, why recognize him? Why did he adopt us as his sons? Wasn''t it to satisfy his own desires? He only wanted us to enter the immortal sects to seek immortal pills for him. A lifetime of calctions ended in a vain dream. During the Dragon Gate Tournament for mortals, we were selected, and none of us cared about him anymore. Just as he said, mortals are ''livestock.'' Why should we acknowledge him?" Wang Chen sneered.


    After Wang Chen finished speaking, everyone frowned in thought, their eyes showing a trace of peculiarity.


    "Is that so?" the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince said indifferently.


    "Master, rest assured. Since Wang Chen is loyal to you, he won''t think of anything else. You have given Wang Chen power and status, which is a true act of great kindness. Wang Chen won''t offer empty words of praise but will prove his loyalty through actions," Wang Chen said immediately.


    Everyone looked at Wang Chen, deep in thought.


    The Sky-Splitting Crown Prince yed with the tea leaves in his cup with the lid, seemingly indifferent.


    After Wang Chen finished speaking, he stood there respectfully, waiting for the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince''s instructions.


    "I naturally trust your loyalty, especially since you bear my ''divine seal,'' making betrayal unthinkable," the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince said lightly.


    "Yes!" Wang Chen responded immediately.


    "In that case, you and Seventh Brother will lead the vanguard and meet Zhong Shan," the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince ordered calmly.


    "Good. Don''t worry, Third Brother, I will definitely take Zhong Shan''s head," Crown Prince Chong Tian dered immediately.


    "Yes, Master, rest assured. Wang Chen will not be swayed by old feelings. Wang Chen is your Wang Chen!" Wang Chen affirmed.


    "Very well, you both prepare the troops and set out. I will join you in a few days," the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince said indifferently.


    "Third Brother? You won''t lead the attack on Yan Hong City?" Crown Prince Chong Tian asked, surprised.


    "No, I have some matters to attend to. But I will arrive for the final battle at Yan Hong City. For now, you will lead," the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince said in a deep voice.


    "Alright, Third Brother, don''t worry. It''s overkill for you to lead an attack on a mere empire. Even when we deal with the Blue me Empire, it won''t be worthy of your leadership!" Crown Prince Chong Tian said with a smile.


    "Heh," the Sky-Splitting Crown Prince chuckled faintly.

 Chapter 577: Father and Son Meet on the Battlefield

    <h4>Chapter 577: Father and Son Meet on the Battlefield</h4>


    Zhong Shan heldmand over Yan Hong City!


    Although Zhong Shan was an outsider, his exceptional abilities and the support of seasoned ministers allowed him to swiftly organize all military arrangements. The various armies were deployed ording to his directives.


    To avoid suspicion of usurping the throne, Zhong Shan stayed in the East City Tower, never stepping into the imperial pce. In a grand hall of the East City Tower, Zhong Shan sat at themand desk, with a group of Yan Hong Dynasty officials standing before him.


    "Emperor Zhong, it''s incredible! The troops you dispatched happened to encounter the nks of the Taishui Dynasty perfectly. Although the oues varied, they finally slowed their advance. Our dynasty can finally counterattack!" an excited general eximed.


    "Indeed, this is the first time we''ve held back the Taishui Dynasty. Such a victory will surely stabilize our army''s morale," said Elder Wei, who had invited Zhong Shan.


    "No, these are minor skirmishes. The real battle is imminent!" Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "Oh?"


    "Scouts report that the main force of the Taishui Dynasty''s army is advancing towards Yan Hong City. They will arrive in five days," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    A heavy silence fell over the group.


    "With Emperor Zhong inmand, there shouldn''t be any issues, right?" Wei Gong asked.


    "That depends on your unity," Zhong Shan said, looking at everyone.


    "United, absolutely united. In times of national crisis, how could we not be?" Wei Gong immediately replied.


    "Good. Then rece the guards at the four city gates with your most trusted subordinates," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "The four city gates?" Wei Gong was taken aback.


    Zhong Shan suddenly produced a letter and tossed it forward. Wei Gong caught it and quickly read through it, his expression growing increasingly serious and then turning to anger.


    "Outrageous! How dare they betray us and inform the enemy!" Wei Gong roared.


    "Wei Gong, what is it?" someone asked.


    Before Wei Gong could respond, Zhong Shan interrupted, "Resolve this internally."


    "Yes, thank you, Emperor Zhong. We will handle it immediately," Wei Gong said respectfully, leading the group out of the hall quickly.


    "Your Majesty, this..." Zhao Suoxiang frowned.


    "Old Zhao, let the Iron Spear Battalion rest. We might have a tough battle ahead. Distribute the spirit stones and pills I gave you earlier. Don''t be stingy. When we reach the Da Qian Dynasty, there will be plenty of these resources," Zhong Shan instructed.


    Five dayster, Crown Prince Chong Tian arrived at the eastern side of Yan Hong City with 1.5 million troops, gazing at the distant city shrouded in faint fortune.


    "Report!" A scout hurried over.


    "Speak!" Crown Prince Chong Tian, mounted on a giant warhorse,manded.


    "The seven nking armies were ambushed, only twomanders escaped and are retreating towards the main force," the scout reported.


    "Useless!" Crown Prince Chong Tian roared in anger.


    The scout quietly withdrew.


    Beside Chong Tian, riding on a demon steed, was Wang Chen.


    "Wang Chen, you have a good adoptive father. In just a few days, he has thwarted my eighteen nking armies. He''s truly a strategist, capturing everyone regardless of victory or defeat," Crown Prince Chong Tian said with a mocking tone.


    "Seventh Prince, mind your words. Let me reiterate: I have no further ties with Zhong Shan. If you continue to associate me with him, don''t me me for turning hostile!" Wang Chen said in a grave tone.


    "Hmph!" Crown Prince Chong Tian snorted.


    From a distance, they could already see the city walls.


    Seeing the line of people standing atop the city wall, Crown Prince Chong Tian''s eyes turned cold. But when he spotted Zhong Shan among them, a glint of interest shed in his eyes.


    "Fine. Since you im to have no more ties with Zhong Shan, go and bring me his head!" Crown Prince Chong Tian ordered coldly.


    Wang Chen fell silent for a moment.


    "Are you afraid? Hahaha!" Crown Prince Chong Tianughed suddenly.


    "Is this a military order?" Wang Chen asked solemnly.


    "Indeed, it is a military order. Wang Chen, as Deputy Commander, Imand you to lead the vanguard, capture Yan Hong City, and bring me Zhong Shan''s head!" Crown Prince Chong Tian ordered, his eyes ring coldly at Wang Chen.


    "Understood!" Wang Chen responded.


    He squeezed his legs, and his demon steed stepped out of the formation. With a wave of his hand, about five thousand soldiers in bright red uniforms followed him out.


    These were Wang Chen''s private troops, designated as the vanguard to capture Yan Hong City and take Zhong Shan''s head.


    What must be faced, must be faced. Wang Chen rode forward, slowly entering the center of the battlefield, signaling his challenge.


    From the distant city wall, Zhong Shan, leaning against the railing, watched the approaching army. He had received the scout''s report long ago.


    Crown Prince Chong Tian? Wang Chen?


    Even from a distance, Zhong Shan recognized Wang Chen at a nce.


    Zhong Shi Jiu? The foster son he had once favored most? The traitor?


    Seeing Wang Chen advance with his vanguard troops, Zhong Shan felt a heavy weight in his heart.


    Meeting in this manner, father and son, was unique and filled withplex emotions. Had he truly misjudged him back then?


    Zhong Shan fell into a deep silence, saying nothing.


    In the distance, Wang Chen led his troops out, also looking towards Zhong Shan on the city wall. His gaze was emotionless, indifferent.


    Behind him, Crown Prince Chong Tian watched coldly. He had always disliked Wang Chen, and recently discovering he was Zhong Shan''s foster son made things even more interesting.


    "Emperor Zhong, Emperor Zhong..." A nearby minister kept calling out to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan was lost in thought.


    "Hmm?" Zhong Shan snapped back to attention.


    "What should we do now?" Wei Gong asked worriedly.


    Zhong Shan did not answer immediately. He took a deep breath, looking at Wang Chen in the distance. His heart was filled with conflicting emotions. He had expected to feel extreme anger and impulsiveness upon seeing this traitor again, but now, he only felt a deep sense of mncholy and the passage of time.


    "Zhao Suoxiang!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Present!" Zhao Suoxiang immediately responded.


    "What do you think?" Zhong Shan asked gravely.


    "Based on the information gathered over the past few days, this Wang Chen is exceptionally gifted. His cultivation speed is remarkable, and he recently reached the Nascent Soul stage. I am also at the Nascent Soul stage. With Your Majesty''s permission, I am willing to go and capture him alive!" Zhao Suoxiang said confidently.


    "Hehe, capturing him alive won''t be that easy," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "I will not disappoint Your Majesty!" Zhao Suoxiang replied stubbornly.


    "No, it''s not that I doubt your abilities. Your skills, even at the Nascent Soul stage, might trouble someone at the Emperor Extreme Realm. But I must remind you of something," Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    "Oh?" Zhao Suoxiang was slightly taken aback.


    The others were astonished. Zhao Suoxiang at the Nascent Soul stage able to contend with the Emperor Extreme Realm? How could that be possible?


    "Wang Chen, formerly known as Zhong Shijiu, was once my adopted son," Zhong Shan suddenly revealed.


    "What?" Zhao Suoxiang was shocked.


    The surrounding ministers were equally stunned. Zhong Shan''s adopted son?


    "Of course, he disowned me as his foster father nearly a century ago," Zhong Shan said bitterly.


    "A disloyal and treacherous scoundrel!" Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes filled with anger.


    "Hehe, regardless of what happened, I must warn you not to underestimate Wang Chen. Of my more than a hundred adopted sons, his talent was the greatest. He is very intelligent, highly capable, much like myself," Zhong Shan calmly assessed.


    Wang Chen''s talent was the greatest? Highly intelligent? Extremely capable?


    These remarks already elevated Wang Chen''s status significantly. Indeed, in a short time, Wang Chen had established himself firmly in the camp of Crown Prince Chong Tian and held a considerable position, indicating his formidable abilities.


    But what struck Zhao Suoxiang the most was Zhong Shan''sment, "much like myself."


    These three words overturned everything Zhong Shan had said earlier. To be like Zhong Shan implied Wang Chen''s immense strength.


    How strong was Zhong Shan? And Wang Chen was like him?


    "I understand," Zhao Suoxiang took a deep breath, no longer daring to underestimate Wang Chen.


    "Take the Iron Spear Battalion and meet him. Be sure to protect yourself," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!" Zhao Suoxiang nodded and left to rally his troops.


    Zhong Shan gazed at Wang Chen from a distance, their eyes meeting across the battlefield. Zhong Shan''s expression grew serious, reflecting theplexity of their rtionship, the stakes of the battle, and perhaps other matters.


    "Beat the drums, boost the army''s morale!" Crown Prince Chong Tianmanded with a smile.


    The drummers quickly pounded the battle drums.


    "Boom, boom, boom..."


    The thunderous drumbeats sent a wave of killing intent across the battlefield towards Yan Hong City. Some timid officials on the city wall shivered.


    "By the Deputy Commander''s order, capture Yan Hong City and bring me Zhong Shan''s head!" Wang Chen shouted.


    "Roar..."


    The army behind him roared in unison, filled with a murderous aura as they advanced with the drumbeats.


    Zhong Shan turned to the trembling officials beside him and tightened his expression. "Since ancient times, evil has never triumphed over righteousness. As long as we uphold a spirit of integrity and defend our city, we will be victorious. Beat the drums, prepare to engage!"


    "Yes!" The fearful officials quickly gathered their courage, looking towards the enemy with renewed determination.


    "Boom, boom, boom..."


    The drums on the city wall began to beat as the city gates swung open. Zhao Suoxiang, in white robes and wielding a silver spear, led the Iron Spear Battalion out to meet the enemy.

 Chapter 578: Blood God Technique

    <h4>Chapter 578: Blood God Technique</h4>


    Bothmanders beat their drums to boost morale, and the vanguards from both sides advanced in full formation.


    The two armies faced each other, each setting their formations. Wang Chen stared coldly, not underestimating Zhao Suoxiang. Although he had never met Zhao Suoxiang, he trusted Zhong Shan''s judgment. If Zhong Shan sent him, he must be formidable.


    Zhao Suoxiang, on the other hand, was even more serious. Facing Zhong Shan''s former foster son, who, despite betraying Zhong Shan, had been highly regarded by him, made Zhao Suoxiang wary. "Much like me"��those three words said it all.


    Zhao Suoxiang had been oppressed in the Blue me Dynasty due to jealousy from his superior, themander of the Third Corps, who envied the strength of his Iron Spear Battalion and kept him from fame. But the battalion''s strength was undeniable, capable of standing against hundreds.


    "Iron Spear Formation!" Zhao Suoxiang shouted.


    "Roar!"


    Immediately, the five thousand soldiers behind him formed a circr formation, their long spears pointed outward, transforming them into a massive, formidable porcupine. A fierce aura filled the battlefield, creating a powerful battle formation.


    In an instant, the soldiers vanished, leaving only the gleaming tips of their spears.


    "A battle formation?" Zhong Shan, watching from the distant city wall, noticed the transformation with interest. It was akin to the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation.


    The powerful aura radiated in all directions, making some officials on the city wall squint in pain.


    Nearby, Wang Chen observed the sudden formation of this "giant porcupine" without fear. He extended a finger, and a drop of blood emerged at the tip. Flinging it into the air, it suddenly turned into a torrential rain��no, a blood rain��pouring down like a waterfall, enveloping Wang Chen and his surroundings.


    Like a flood from the sky, the battlefield turned blood-red, bing an endless blood sea. Behind Wang Chen, the five thousand red-d soldiers emitted beams of crimson light, merging into the blood sea.


    The immense blood sea surged with towering waves, one after another, filled with ghostly blood-red figures, merging into the sea, appearing and disappearing mysteriously.


    The blood sea spread like a scene from hell, advancing towards the enemy.


    On the city wall, the officials of Yan Hong Dynasty were terrified. What was this? What kind of technique? What kind of magic?


    A blood sea? Zhong Shan was not surprised. If the Eight Gates Golden Lock Formation could create a vast desert, it was not strange to see a battle formation manifesting as a blood sea.


    What concerned Zhong Shan more was the person controlling this blood sea��Wang Chen, formerly Zhong Shijiu.


    Zhong Shan watched the blood sea with a heavy heart, taking a deep breath and observing silently.


    From the distantmand tform, Crown Prince Chong Tian gazed at the massive blood sea, breathing deeply with jealousy.


    "The Blood God Technique? Third Brother actually passed the ''Blood God Technique'' to that guy Wang Chen? The Blood Sea Divine Path? Five thousand pseudo-blood god soldiers, huh!" Crown Prince Chong Tian muttered with resentment.


    Regardless of the reactions of those outside, on the battlefield, Zhao Suoxiang''s mighty Iron Spear Formation was about to sh with the advancing blood sea.


    As soon as they shed, an immense battle energy erupted from both sides. The Iron Spear Formation formed a spherical shield of spears, which immediately radiated powerful spear energy, piercing straight into the blood sea.


    The waves of blood within the sea were shattered by the spear energy, but each wave was quickly reced by another, endlessly. The blood continuously tried to envelop and corrode the Iron Spear Formation.


    Countless blood-red figures emerged from the sea, attacking the spear formation and engaging in fiercebat with the Iron Spear soldiers.


    The battlefield became a chaotic scene, with blood and spears shing violently. It was like a half-filled bottle being shaken wildly, causing a tempest of energy that shattered the surrounding stones.


    asionally, bursts of spear energy would erupt, smashing into the surrounding mountains and city walls, producing thunderous booms that drowned out the battle drums of both armies.


    The ferocity of the Iron Spear Formation was evident. Designed forbat, it was a destructive war machine that left no grass alive in its wake, its killing intent raging wildly.


    The blood sea, on the other hand, possessed a powerful corrosive ability. Any vegetation touched by its blood drops instantly emitted white smoke and withered away. The ground, eroded by the blood sea, sank deeper, making the sea appear like a true hellish blood ocean.


    The intense sh of these two forces impacted the nerves of everyone watching. Soldiers of Yan Hong City and the Taishui Dynasty alike felt a chill in their hearts.


    Was this really a battle involving only ten thousand soldiers? Even a million troops entering this fray would be useless. It was terrifying. How could anyone intervene in such a dreadful war? The battlefield and the armies were terrifyingly strong.


    Without these formidable troops, the ordinary soldiers on both sides might have already harbored thoughts of retreat.


    The battle between these ten thousand warriors captured everyone''s attention, drawing their focus entirely. The fight seemed evenly matched, with neither side giving an inch.


    Zhong Shan watched for a moment before turning his gaze to Crown Prince Chong Tian. The prince continued to observe the battlefield coldly, seemingly waiting for a clear victor to emerge.


    "Wei Gong?" Zhong Shan called softly.


    "Uh, uh, Emperor Zhong, what are your orders?" Wei Gong, his mind engrossed in the battle, was jolted back to attention by Zhong Shan''s call.


    "Implement the third n I mentioned. Have our ambushed troops start eliminating the nking forces of the Taishui Dynasty and encircle them from behind as quickly as possible. We need to wipe out these Taishui Dynasty troopspletely," Zhong Shanmanded solemnly.


    "Yes, yes, yes!" Wei Gong''s face turned red with excitement as he responded eagerly.


    He quickly descended the city wall to carry out Zhong Shan''s orders.


    Meanwhile, Crown Prince Chong Tian, though focused on the battlefield, asionally nced at Zhong Shan. Seeing Zhong Shan unmoved, he also remained still, waiting for Wang Chen to emerge victorious and demoralize the enemy troops, making it easy to capture Yan Hong City and subsequently take control of the Yan Hong Dynasty.


    Unbeknownst to him, Zhong Shan had already set his ambush in motion, with his troops advancing quietly.


    Wang Chen''s Blood Sea Formation was indeed formidable. The battle raged on for four days and nights without signs of fatigue, while Zhao Suoxiang''s Iron Spear Formation seemed tog slightly but still held firm.


    Seeing that the Iron Spear Formation had not been destroyed after four days and nights, Crown Prince Chong Tian frowned, feeling increasingly frustrated.


    As Crown Prince Chong Tian''s frustration grew, Zhong Shan''s strategy was already in motion.


    "Report!"


    A scout suddenly rushed forward to report. Crown Prince Chong Tian was slightly taken aback. Reporting at this moment? What could be so urgent now?


    "Deputy Commander, Jianhong City has been lost!" the scout said anxiously.


    "What?" Crown Prince Chong Tian was shocked. Jianhong City lost? That was the city they had just captured!


    "Report!"


    Another scout flew in.


    "Deputy Commander, Changyun City has been lost!"


    "Report!"


    "Deputy Commander, Sanchuang City has been lost!"


    A flood of scouts arrived one after another, each bringing worse news than thest. How could the cities they had just captured be lost in just four days and nights? How could this happen?


    Zhong Shan?


    Crown Prince Chong Tian suddenly thought of something, his eyes narrowing coldly as he looked towards Zhong Shan in the distance.


    "Report!"


    "Deputy Commander, eighty thousand Yan Hong Dynasty troops have appeared in the south!"


    "Report!"


    "Deputy Commander, fifty thousand Yan Hong Dynasty troops have appeared in the west!"


    "Report!"


    "Deputy Commander, seventy thousand Yan Hong Dynasty troops have appeared in the north!"


    One bad news after another came pouring in. At this moment, Crown Prince Chong Tian felt like he had been struck on the head. He suddenly realized he had fallen into a huge trap. Zhong Shan hadn''t gathered many troops within Yan Hong City but had sent them out. While his main force was being stalled, Zhong Shan''s troops had retaken the cities they had captured. The main force had left these cities vulnerable, and withoutplete control, they were quickly retaken by the enemy, who then turned to encircle him.


    "Zhong Shan, you seek death!" Crown Prince Chong Tian roared angrily, his voice prating the entire battlefield and reaching the distant city wall.


    On the city wall, the officials of the Yan Hong Dynasty were also receiving the same news. Each of them was flushed with excitement. Initially, some had doubted Zhong Shan''s n due to its risk, as any misstep would result in total failure. But now, it had seeded beyond their expectations.


    "Emperor Zhong, your strategy is brilliant! You anticipated the enemy''s moves perfectly. I am in awe!" Wei Gong said joyfully.


    The others echoed their agreement.


    "This n was indeed risky, and we were fortunate that the mainmander was temporarily reced by Lu Chong Tian," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    Meanwhile, the battlefield echoed with Crown Prince Chong Tian''s furious roar.


    Zhong Shan nced coldly at Lu Chong Tian.


    "Seek death? Do you think you can spare me?" Zhong Shan mused, wondering why the three-legged golden crow, usually inseparable from Lu Chong Tian, was not with him.


    With a cold smile, Zhong Shan looked at Crown Prince Chong Tian and said, "The gift you gave me at the Myriad Pill Conference, I have returned in full. How does it feel, Crown Prince Chong Tian?"


    How does it feel? Suddenly, a sh of understanding crossed Crown Prince Chong Tian''s mind. He instantly grasped Zhong Shan''s meaning. The alchemical explosions at the Taishui Dynasty''s pill-making sessions were not caused by Longhu Pill Saint but by him, Zhong Shan!

 Chapter 579: The Heavenly Rule! Eighty Waves!

    <h4>Chapter 579: The Heavenly Rule! Eighty Waves!</h4>


    It was Zhong Shan''s doing?


    Everything suddenly made sense to Crown Prince Chong Tian. He had been wondering why the Longhu Pill Saint would have the audacity to tamper with the pills. It turned out it was all orchestrated by Zhong Shan. His grand n had beenpletely disrupted by Zhong Shan, and it happened right under his nose, leading to severe reprimands from his third brother. Such audacity, such treachery, such an infuriating person!


    "Roar!"


    Crown Prince Chong Tian let out a furious roar, as if he had lost his mind.


    The sudden outburst startled everyone. What had happened to Crown Prince Chong Tian?


    A wave of overwhelming killing intent emanated from Crown Prince Chong Tian, spreading in all directions. The intense aura forced his nearby subordinates to their knees in fear.


    "Zhong Shan,e out and face your death!" Chong Tian roared, his figure suddenly appearing in the center of the battlefield, floating in mid-air, staring directly at Zhong Shan.


    Crown Prince Chong Tian needed to kill Zhong Shan to quell his rage. Given his immense strength at the Emperor Extreme Realm, how could he possibly struggle against Zhong Shan, who was just a mortal over a century ago?


    Killing Zhong Shan was his only focus now.


    But Zhong Shan smiled cruelly.


    A fight? This was exactly what Zhong Shan had provoked in Crown Prince Chong Tian.


    The frenzy in Zhong Shan''s heart had reached its peak on the way to the Myriad Pill Conference, making it difficult to control. The hatred within him could only be assuaged through killing.


    Otherwise, why would someone asposed as Zhong Shan, who usually hid his emotions so well, be seen as abnormal by Gu Qianyou?


    Zhong Shan had long wanted to kill, to invade the Taishui Dynasty, and ughter all its people, especially the royal family. Ultimately, he wanted to personally kill Crown Prince Lietian to avenge Kuier.


    But Zhong Shan knew this was an impossible dream at the moment. Hecked the foundation to do so. He couldn''t afford to kill even a renowned figure of the Taishui Dynasty yet. It was either all or nothing.


    Seeing Crown Prince Chong Tian, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but stir up his inner frenzy.


    So, Zhong Shan needed a legitimate excuse for killing, not one based on revenge but another reason entirely.


    Thus, Zhong Shan mentioned the alchemical explosions to provoke Crown Prince Chong Tian. This way, their battle would not be a personal vendetta but a sh between two dynasties.


    Killing would be justified! It would be righteous!


    Crown Prince Chong Tian was enraged, and Zhong Shan saw his opportunity.


    Ignoring the ministers'' pleas, Zhong Shan stepped out from the city wall and flew into the sky, facing Crown Prince Chong Tian from a distance.


    While the northern battlefield was engulfed in the blood sea, Zhong Shan and Crown Prince Chong Tian faced off in the south.


    Seeing Zhong Shan ept the challenge, Crown Prince Chong Tian''s expression turned cold. With a flip of his hand, arge, menacing saber appeared.


    A surge of golden light radiated from Crown Prince Chong Tian, enveloping everything around him. The surrounding energy seemed to respond to hismand.


    A zing heat radiated in all directions as Crown Prince Chong Tian stood like a golden sun, emitting an overwhelming aura that pressed down on everything.


    An Emperor Extreme Realm expert could influence the surrounding environment, harmonizing with the rules of the heavens and earth. Crown Prince Chong Tian was one such expert.


    Zhong Shan showed no fear. With a wave of his hand, he too produced an imposing great de��Nightmare! The moment Nightmare appeared, a dense, pitch-ck aura of malevolence emanated from it.


    Although Zhong Shan didn''t possess the ability to influence the environment like Crown Prince Chong Tian, he exuded an unyielding majesty.


    "Hahaha! So, you''re merely at the Sovereign Extreme Realm, unaware of the rules, ignorant of the celestial phenomena. You''re dead for sure!" Crown Prince Chong Tianughed, instantly seeing through Zhong Shan''s level and feeling a rush of excitement. Like a cat toying with a mouse, he intended to slowly torment Zhong Shan to death.


    Narrowing his eyes, Zhong Shan said, "Unaware of the rules, ignorant of celestial phenomena? Are you referring to this?"


    With a cold shout from Zhong Shan, thunderclouds quickly formed above his head, rolling ominously.


    "Heaven? Heavenly Extreme Realm?" Crown Prince Chong Tian was suddenly taken aback.


    "No, that''s not ''Heaven''; it''s ''Heavenly Thunder Transformation,'' a technique from the Pce of Creation. Trying to deceive me, Zhong Shan? You''re still too inexperienced. Even if you have learned this astonishing technique, without understanding the rules, it''s useless!" Crown Prince Chong Tian immediately recognized the technique.


    "World of des!"


    With a furious shout, Crown Prince Chong Tian swung his saber. Suddenly, endless golden de energy appeared in the sky, pouring down like a torrential rain towards Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan swung Nightmare, unleashing a powerful de aura to counter.


    "Boom!"


    The force of Zhong Shan''s strike sent many of the de energies back, but he was also pushed back a hundred feet. However, Crown Prince Chong Tian''s de energies remained suspended in the air.


    Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback. Were those really de energies?


    "My de energies are indestructible. As long as you live, they won''t dissipate! But you are no ordinary foe. My de energies are not something a Sovereign Extreme Realm expert can withstand, yet you repelled them with one strike? You won''t be so lucky again," Crown Prince Chong Tianughed.


    Zhong Shan felt a tightness in his chest. He knew the weight of his previous strike. To say the least, even a novice Emperor Extreme Realm expert might not withstand it. That strike was Zhong Shan''s own creation, the Heavenly Rule! Heavy Waves!


    Heavenly Rule, Twenty Heavy Waves!


    This was Zhong Shan''s maximum strength under normal circumstances, capable of matching a novice Emperor Extreme Realm expert. Yet, it only repelled the de energies?


    Zhong Shan''s heart tightened. Crown Prince Chong Tian was definitely at thete stage of the Emperor Extreme Realm, and his de energies were bizarrely persistent.


    As the second wave of endless de energies poured down, Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold.


    A subtle rotation of the pink lotus at his brow channeled energy into his eyes.


    Red Luan Heavenly Scripture, Sixth Layer! The Beginning of True Sight!


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s vision fragmented, revealing countless lines of rules. Zhong Shan had long discovered that the Beginning of True Sight revealed more than just lightning-based rules.


    Previously, its subtle functions had been mistaken by Gu Shentong. Now, Zhong Shan saw a multitude of rule lines, not confined to any single element, but seemingly epassing them all.


    Moreover, the rity of these lines improved with Zhong Shan''s increasing strength, no longer flickering but appearing distinctly.


    "Eight Heaven Waves!" Zhong Shan bellowed, his eyes gleaming with newfound insight.


    With precise control, Zhong Shan harnessed the visible rules. The chaotic battlefield faded as he focused solely on the iing de energies, each rule line enhancing his understanding.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan''s Nightmare de cut through the onught with surgical precision, neutralizing the de energies. Each strike now carried a deeper resonance, aligned with the rules he could see.


    Crown Prince Chong Tian''s expression shifted from confident to perplexed. "Impossible! How can you wield such power?"


    Unfazed, Zhong Shan pressed the advantage, his strikes growing sharper and more refined, guided by the rules he now clearly perceived. The battlefield around them quaked under the sheer force of their sh, with Zhong Shan turning the tide against the formidable Crown Prince.


    The world, like a spiderweb, appeared incredibly eerie yet remarkably clear to Zhong Shan.


    In the distance, Crown Prince Chong Tian, with his Emperor Extreme Realm abilities, was interconnected with countless surrounding rules. The endless de energies were linked to these rule lines, under his control, exining their persistent presence.


    Zhong Shan''s unique ability to perceive these rule lines was something even an Emperor Extreme Realm expert like Crown Prince Chong Tian could not fathom. While Chong Tian could sense and control the rules to manipte the de energies, his understanding was superficialpared to Zhong Shan''s precise vision.


    As the de energies poured down from the sky, Zhong Shan stepped forward. With a strike of his Heavenly Rule technique��Twenty Heavy Waves��he shed towards Crown Prince Chong Tian.


    "Boom!"


    With a tremendous explosion, Zhong Shan''s strike scattered Crown Prince Chong Tian''s de energies. The Crown Prince''s face showed utter disbelief. How could this be? Yet, it was true. Zhong Shan''s strike had severed the rule lines controlling the de energies, dispersing them entirely.


    "It seems I''ve underestimated you," Crown Prince Chong Tian sneered.


    Ignoring the dispersed de energies, Chong Tian flipped his hand and shed fiercely at Zhong Shan. A hundred-foot-long de aura, filled with unmatched power, rushed straight towards Zhong Shan.


    Recognizing the pure force of an Emperor Extreme Realm attack, Zhong Shan responded with his own.


    Heavenly Rule! Twenty Heavy Waves!


    Zhong Shan''s strike met Chong Tian''s in mid-air.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan was driven into the ground, creating a massive crater and a trench hundreds of feet long. Despite his powerful technique, his Twenty Heavy Waves were still no match for Chong Tian''s overwhelming strength.


    Emerging from the crater, dust covering his clothes, Zhong Shan''s eyes turned icy.


    Demonic Tempering Body Technique! Fourth Layer!


    Heavenly Rule! Forty Heavy Waves!


    With renewed vigor, Zhong Shan shed again.


    "Boom!"


    Still not enough!


    Heavenly Rule! Sixty Heavy Waves!


    Zhong Shan struck once more. The intense battle shook the air, filling the surroundings with an overwhelming presence of de energy.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Despite his formidable attacks, even the Sixty Heavy Waves seemed to leave him at a disadvantage.


    Crown Prince Chong Tian was utterly shocked. With each sh, instead of weakening, Zhong Shan appeared to grow stronger. What kind of monster was this?


    Feeling his inner fury surge, Zhong Shan''s eyes reddened as memories of past grudges resurfaced. With a fierce determination, he unleashed his ultimate attack.


    Heavenly Rule! Eighty Heavy Waves!

 Chapter 580: A Dominating Strike

    <h4>Chapter 580: A Dominating Strike</h4>


    The battlefield before the eastern city tower of Yan Hong Dynasty was a scene of utter chaos.


    To the north, the blood sea raged, filled with spears slicing through the air. To the south, de energy filled the sky in a violent storm. Zhong Shan''s overwhelming strength was a spectacle to behold, as a Sovereign Extreme Realm expert holding his own against ate Emperor Extreme Realm master was nothing short of terrifying.


    On the city wall, the ministers were a mix of excitement and apprehension. Zhong Shan was there to help now, but what would they do after he left? Could they handle future threats?


    As the city wall shook from the battle''s shockwaves, the ministers'' minds raced with fear and uncertainty.


    At this moment, on the westernmand tform of the Taishui Dynasty, a new figure suddenly appeared out of thin air. It was a man in golden robes, with a thin slit on his forehead that looked like a third eye.


    This was Crown Prince Lietian, the mainmander of the Taishui Dynasty.


    "Greetings, Commander!" the nearby guards said respectfully.


    Lietian nodded and then focused his attention on the battlefield.


    The officials on the city wall noticed the new figure on the enemy''smand tform.


    "Crown Prince Lietian?" one official eximed in terror.


    His shout drew everyone''s attention. As they looked at Lietian, many felt a chilling tremor in their souls. His presence was terrifying.


    Only a few of the most loyal ministers managed to maintain theirposure, while most showed signs of fear.


    Seeing the timid officials, Lietian sneered disdainfully, then turned his gaze to the two battlefields. He first looked at the Blood Sea Formation.


    The Blood Sea Formation was a technique he had personally taught, from the "Blood God Technique." It was powerful and functioning at full strength, but the opposition was formidable as well.


    Lietian''s eyes grew cold as he shifted his gaze to the other side.


    There, Zhong Shan was battling Crown Prince Chong Tian.


    The technique Zhong Shan was using, the Eight Heavenly Tails, was something he preferred to use sparingly. He focused on enhancing his fundamental cultivation. Thus, unless absolutely necessary, Zhong Shan rarely used it.


    Heavenly Rule! Eighty Heavy Waves!


    Zhong Shan''s attacks grew increasingly powerful. Within moments, he was able to match Chong Tian.


    This was an incredible breakthrough, at least in Chong Tian''s eyes. Initially, Zhong Shan was easy prey. Had Chong Tian not wanted to prolong the fight for amusement, he could have killed Zhong Shan with the first strike.


    However, his yful indulgence allowed Zhong Shan to ''grow'' to a point where he could threaten him. A threat? From a mere Sovereign Extreme Realm cultivator? Laughable! Even among Emperor Extreme Realm experts, Chong Tian was one of the strongest. How could Zhong Shanpare?


    The two exchanged powerful blows, their des shing with a force that sounded like thunder in a clear sky.


    Even the thunderclouds above Zhong Shan''s head couldn''tpete with the sound of their shes.


    This was the most brutal and direct confrontation, with both fighters giving their all.


    "Die!" Chong Tian roared. His saber unleashed a torrent of energy, like a waterfall, crashing towards Zhong Shan. The immense power shook the surrounding space.


    Chong Tian had clearly used some secret technique.


    Seeing the iing strike, Zhong Shan seemed to be even more determined. He gritted his teeth, veins bulging on his forehead.


    With a fierce resolve, he met the attack head-on.


    "<strong>Heavenly Rule! Hundred Heavy Waves!</strong>" Zhong Shan roared.


    With that shout, the power of his strike surged once more, matching the ferocity of Crown Prince Chong Tian''s attack. This was an overloaded strike��Eighty Heavy Waves was Zhong Shan''s limit, yet he pushed beyond to unleash the Hundred Heavy Waves! His entire body ached, skin feeling as if it would tear apart. If not for his relentless practice in the Demonic Tempering Body Technique, his body might have exploded from the strain.


    As his de cut through the air, space itself rippled. The de''s light shone like a copsing gxy, hurtling towards Crown Prince Chong Tian.


    "Boom!"


    The collision was monumental. The surrounding space rippled with powerful waves that extended to the city walls.


    "Boom!"


    The city walls of Yan Hong City were breached by the force of their sh. The power was immense.


    "Crack, crack, crack, crack!"


    A series of cracking sounds emanated from Zhong Shan''s body. In the intense sh, Zhong Shan had broken through once more.


    Demonic Tempering Body Technique, Fifth Layer! Sixfold strength!


    Without hesitation, Zhong Shan activated the Fifth Layer, harnessing the sixfold strength.


    The difort from the Hundred Heavy Waves vanished. Zhong Shan raised his de again and charged towards Crown Prince Chong Tian.


    Crown Prince Chong Tian, meanwhile, was in utter disbelief. He had exerted his full strength, utilizing his Emperor Extreme Realm power to its fullest, even employing a secret technique for a temporary power boost.


    Was Zhong Shan really a Sovereign Extreme Realm cultivator? Chong Tian''s strike had been near-Heavenly Extreme Realm in power, creating spatial distortions. Such a powerful attack would have easily killed an ordinary Emperor Extreme Realm expert.


    But how had Zhong Shan blocked it? And how had he gained the upper hand?


    "I don''t believe it!" Crown Prince Chong Tian roared, shing at Zhong Shan once more.


    Zhong Shan, now at the peak of his battle fervor, saw his opportunity. Hisst strike had suppressed Chong Tian, giving him a brief moment to prepare another attack.


    Seizing this moment, Zhong Shan quickly located a rule line directly aligned with Chong Tian.


    Zhong Shan swung his de again, unleashing his most powerful strike.


    <strong>Heavenly Rule! Rending Wind!</strong>


    <strong>Heavenly Rule! Hundred Twenty Heavy Waves!</strong>


    <strong>Thunderous Might!</strong>


    Rending Wind was a technique enabled by the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture, immensely powerful. The Hundred Twenty Heavy Waves represented Zhong Shan''s ultimate strength. Thunderous Might summoned a deluge of lightning from the storm clouds, which followed his de and shed towards Crown Prince Chong Tian.


    "Roar!"


    As Zhong Shan''s de came down, his body swelled to its limit, his upper garments shredded by his bulging muscles. His eyes blood-red, Zhong Shan delivered his most powerful strike.


    Crown Prince Chong Tian met the attack head-on.


    "Boom!"


    The collision created a massive shockwave, and for a moment, the entire battlefield seemed to pause. The overwhelming force of Zhong Shan''s Hundred Twenty Heavy Waves, enhanced by the Rending Wind and Thunderous Might, shed with Crown Prince Chong Tian''s powerful saber strike.


    The energy radiated outward, creating a storm of power that shook the very foundations of Yan Hong City and the surroundingnd.


    Both attacks created spatial distortions, but there was a stark difference between them. Crown Prince Chong Tian''s attack caused ripples like a pebble thrown into a calmke, while Zhong Shan''s strike was like the raging sea during a storm, creating massive, terrifying spatial waves. His strike, filled with overwhelming dominance and terrifying power, bore down on Chong Tian.


    In that moment, the sky behind Zhong Shan became a dazzling disy of purple lightning, an unstoppable force that apanied the sound of the Rending Wind, all converging on Chong Tian.


    Crown Prince Chong Tian was utterly panicked. He felt like he wasn''t just facing Zhong Shan, but the entire force of the heavens and earth. It was as if he was facing the might of ancient divine powers, albeit a miniature version.


    Even so, Chong Tian''s face was filled with fear and panic. The oppressive force made escape impossible; he had to confront this terrifying strike head-on.


    Crown Prince Chong Tian felt an urge to cry. Was this really just a Sovereign Extreme Realm attack? How could it be so powerful? Moments ago, he had been toying with Zhong Shan like a cat with a mouse. But now, Zhong Shan had not only matched him but was suppressing himpletely.


    How could this be happening?


    In his fear, Crown Prince Chong Tian finally understood the terror that Monk Sekong once felt.


    Death was so close? Zhong Shan was so monstrous?


    "No!" Crown Prince Chong Tian screamed in horror.


    With that scream, Zhong Shan''s unparalleled strike��the strongest strike ever seen from a Sovereign Extreme Realm cultivator��came crashing down.


    This strike carried not only Zhong Shan''s full strength but also his immense rage.


    "Boom!"


    The invincible strikended, creating monstrous waves of force. The city walls of Yan Hong City crumbled, as if an earthquake had struck, causing many buildings near the eastern gate to copse.


    The ground shook, and everyone felt as if they were being lifted off their feet.


    After the strike, the sky cleared, leaving only a vast cloud of dust.


    A massive dust trail extended for about three thousand feet, leaving everyone in a state of shock. Their mouths hung open in disbelief.


    It wasn''t until the dust settled that everyone began toprehend the extent of Zhong Shan''s power.


    When the dust cleared, it revealed Zhong Shan, bare-chested with bulging muscles, drenched in sweat, holding his mighty de.


    In front of him was a massive, pitch-ck ravine, three thousand feet long, with smoke still rising from it.


    Three thousand feet?


    Everyone was stunned! The Iron Spear Formation and Blood Sea Formation stood apart, their forces regrouping, each aligned with their respective sides.


    Zhong Shan, having unleashed his powerful strike, looked up towards themand tform across from him.


    His strike hadn''t killed Crown Prince Chong Tian. At thest moment, Chong Tian had been saved by a powerful expert who now stood on themand tform.


    Zhong Shan raised his head and locked eyes with the figure on the distant tform.

 Chapter 581: Psychological Deficiency

    <h4>Chapter 581: Psychological Deficiency</h4>


    Zhong Shan unleashed his ultimate strike, a blow so powerful that it could have decapitated the Crown Prince of the Heavens on the spot. The prince had no chance of resisting, but in the critical moment, he was saved.


    An extraordinary master had rescued the Crown Prince! In a blink, the prince was whisked away to themand tform in the distance.


    Zhong Shan turned his gaze towards the distant tform.


    In this entire region, the only one capable of saving the Crown Prince from Zhong Shan''s domineering strike was the Crown Prince of the Sky.


    The Crown Prince of the Heavens, now back on the tform, was still reeling from the recent shock, his heart filled with lingering fear and regret. He had narrowly escaped death, and the fluctuation in his emotions was immense. He looked up at the Crown Prince of the Sky standing before him.


    "Thank you, Third Brother!" the Crown Prince of the Heavens said immediately, his gratitude genuine, for he had narrowly avoided death.


    The Crown Prince of the Sky waved his hand, stopping him from speaking.


    Not far away, Wang Chen also returned with his subordinates. Although he had lost dozens of men,pared to the five thousand hemanded, it was insignificant.


    After saving the Crown Prince of the Heavens, the Crown Prince of the Sky also looked towards the distant Zhong Shan. The two men stared at each other from afar, locked in a silent confrontation.


    The moment Zhong Shan saw the Crown Prince of the Sky, it felt as if the world suddenly trembled, leaving only the Crown Prince standing between heaven and earth.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan could see nothing else, only the figure of the Crown Prince of the Sky, a face indelibly etched in his mind, a hatred that cut to the bone.


    Suddenly, an overwhelming aura of malevolence erupted around Zhong Shan, darkening the area. His eyes turned blood-red, and the veins on the hand gripping his sword bulged.


    The Crown Prince of the Sky?


    We meet again, Crown Prince of the Sky!


    Last time, he was nothing more than an ant, utterly powerless. If his subordinates hadn''t knocked him unconscious, he might have long perished at the Crown Prince''s hands without a chance to fight back.


    And now, does he have the power to retaliate?


    Should he put everything into avenging himself? Instinctively, Zhong Shan wanted to do so, but rationally, he forced himself to remain calm. It was as if that earlier strike had already vented all his inner fury.


    In that moment, Zhong Shan found himself on the verge of losing control, yet he forcibly restrained himself. Could he really hold back?


    In the past, just recalling the scene of the Crown Prince of the Sky killing Kui''er would drive Zhong Shan mad, beyond control. But now, he had managed to restrain himself, even in the face of the Crown Prince?


    Perhaps, only by confronting the Crown Prince of the Sky could he truly conquer himself. This was a psychological deficiency, a w in Zhong Shan''s psyche that could only be mended by facing the Crown Prince.


    When he had lost control in the past, he was like a brute with limited destructive power. Now that he had ovee this psychological w, he had be rational and strong.


    Should he kill the Crown Prince of the Sky now?


    Zhao Suoxiang, not far away, quickly flew over. Zhong Shan had previously warned him that he might lose control upon encountering the Crown Prince, and Zhao Suoxiang''s task was to awaken him from that state.


    Was Zhong Shan currently out of control, or had he managed to retain hisposure?


    "I''m fine!" Zhong Shan gritted his teeth, refusing to let himself lose control.


    Hearing this, Zhao Suoxiang felt a great sense of relief.


    When Zhong Shan looked at the Crown Prince of the Sky, his eyes were filled with unrestrained hatred, a hatred that cut to the bone. Suddenly, as if making a firm decision, his gaze turned icy, and two beams of cold light shot from his eyes.


    At that moment, the Red Luan Pink Lotus at Zhong Shan''s forehead began to spin.


    Blue, a deep blue!


    The Red Luan Pink Lotus suddenly transformed into a blue lotus! An ominous sign?


    Zhong Shan''s heart trembled. An ominous sign?


    What did it mean? That rushing forward would result in certain death?


    Zhong Shan had once fought Shen Qitian, a powerful Heavenly Extreme Realm expert, yet even he had not caused the Red Luan Pink Lotus to change.


    Could this universally recognized Emperor Extreme Realm expert, the Crown Prince of the Sky, actually kill him?


    How could this be?


    Zhong Shan''s heart quivered. Was the Crown Prince of the Sky truly this strong? Should he rush forward to meet his death? Should he now engage in a life-and-death struggle?


    No, he had to avenge Kui''er!


    Endure! He must endure!


    Zhong Shan''s face flushed with suppressed anger, an unwillingness, a deep-seated frustration.


    In the distance, the Crown Prince of the Sky also gazed deeply at Zhong Shan. His eyes seemed to pierce through the very fabric of reality.


    He nced at Zhong Shan, then at the three-thousand-zhang gorge Zhong Shan had cleaved, and finally at the copsed city wall behind him. A mocking smile yed on his lips before he averted his gaze.


    "Retreat the troops," the Crown Prince of the Sky said indifferently.


    "Third Brother, aren''t you going to kill him? We can''t let him go, he will be a major threat to our dynasty in the future!" the Crown Prince of the Heavens urgently shouted.


    The Crown Prince of the Heavens red venomously at Zhong Shan, determined to see him dead.


    The Crown Prince of the Sky looked at his brother and said, "Stop talking nonsense."


    "Uh?" The Crown Prince of the Heavens was momentarily stunned but could only remain silent, continuing to re at Zhong Shan with intense hatred.


    Retreat?


    Almost all the officials on the city tower were initially stunned, then erupted in ecstatic cheers. They were saved, the Yan Hong Dynasty was saved.


    Before leaving, the Crown Prince of the Sky turned and nced at the officials on the city tower, a sinister smile curling his lips.


    The officials'' joyous expressions instantly froze, and they fell silent, standing obediently like quails, not daring to cheer any longer.


    After casting a final, deep look at the bare-chested, sword-wielding Zhong Shan, the Crown Prince of the Sky smirked and led his army away.


    Zhong Shan stood in the air, watching the Crown Prince of the Sky and his army retreat, his palms almost pierced by his own nails, his mind in turmoil, filled with unwillingness, reluctance, and hatred.


    "Ugh��" Zhong Shan spat out a mouthful of blood.


    "Your Majesty, are you alright?" Zhao Suoxiang asked anxiously.


    "I''m fine," Zhong Shan shook his head, finally tearing his gaze away.


    "Thank you, Emperor Zhong! For the first time, the Crown Prince of the Sky has retreated. In all his battles, this has never happened before. Emperor Zhong has forced the retreat of the Crown Prince''s army. This will surely be a celebrated tale across Shenzhou!" Wei Gong ran over, speaking excitedly.


    "Thank you, Emperor Zhong. The Yan Hong Dynasty is saved!" another official eximed.


    "Emperor Zhong, your great kindness will never be forgotten by the Yan Hong Dynasty!"


    A chorus of ttery followed, but Zhong Shan paid no heed. Instead, he turned and flew towards the eastern tower. Under the respectful gazes of everyone, he entered the main hall and closed the doors, refusing visitors.


    He began his seclusion.


    Zhong Shan needed to organize his thoughts and recover from the weakness caused by the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering technique.


    Seeing that Zhong Shan was not to be disturbed, everyone withdrew, with Zhao Suoxiang naturally standing guard outside the door.


    On the retreating path of the Crown Prince of the Sky.


    "Third Brother, why did you spare Zhong Shan? He''s only at the Emperor Extreme Realm, yet he''s already so terrifying. He will surely be a great enemy of our dynasty in the future. Why not kill him now?" the Crown Prince of the Heavens asked anxiously, his face full of confusion.


    "Kill him? Wang Chen, you exin," the Crown Prince of the Sky replied.


    "Yes!" Wang Chen immediately responded.


    The Crown Prince of the Heavens looked at Wang Chen expectantly.


    "Zhong Shan hasn''t shown his full strength. If he..." Wang Chen began, but was cut off by the Crown Prince of the Heavens.


    "What? How is that possible? He hasn''t shown his full strength? Impossible! He''s only at the Emperor Extreme Realm. How could he?" the Crown Prince of the Heavens shouted angrily.


    Wang Chen shrugged and said, "That''s the reality. I know Zhong Shan best. He always keeps a trump card. With that fierce determination, he wouldn''t engage in a life-and-death battle without a fallback. He''s using you to hone his skills."


    "Impossible, absolutely impossible. Is he a monster? How has he be so strong in just a hundred years?" the Crown Prince of the Heavens said, his face full of disbelief.


    "That''s the truth. Although I don''t know what his trump card is, I can feel that he hasn''t used his full strength!" the Crown Prince of the Sky stated.


    Hearing this, the Crown Prince of the Heavens fell silent. He knew the Crown Prince of the Sky wouldn''t lie. If he said Zhong Shan still had strength left, then it must be true.


    Cursing Zhong Shan inwardly as a demon, the Crown Prince of the Heavens looked at the Crown Prince of the Sky and asked, "Then, can''t Third Brother handle him?"


    "I can certainly kill him!" the Crown Prince of the Sky said disdainfully, as if Zhong Shan was not worth mentioning.


    "Uh?" The Crown Prince of the Heavens was slightly stunned, and Wang Chen also looked at the Crown Prince of the Sky in confusion.


    "But if I were to kill him, I''d have to reveal my strength and secrets, which would adversely affect our imminent ns. Do you want to ruin the Emperor''s strategy?" the Crown Prince of the Sky asked.


    "Lucky him!" the Crown Prince of the Heavens said bitterly.


    "Prepare yourself. The Golden Crows have already departed. You should go soon. I''ll follow shortly," the Crown Prince of the Sky ordered.


    "Yes!" the Crown Prince of the Heavens nodded, stepping heavily before flying away with a heart full of frustration.


    After the Crown Prince of the Heavens left, the Crown Prince of the Sky turned to Wang Chen.


    On themand tform, no one could hear their conversation if the Crown Prince of the Sky willed it.


    "Alright, the seventh has left. Now, exin the Blood Sea Formation," the Crown Prince of the Sky said coldly.


    "I have always been loyal to the master, without the slightest hint of betrayal!" Wang Chen replied immediately.


    "Oh? Not the slightest hint? Then why didn''t you destroy that group?" the Crown Prince of the Sky asked, his tone icy.

 Chapter 582: Highest Specification

    <h4>Chapter 582: Highest Specification</h4>


    "Oh? Not the slightest hint? Then why didn''t you destroy that group?" the Crown Prince of the Sky asked coldly.


    Upon hearing the Crown Prince''s question, Wang Chen remained unflustered.


    "I pushed the Blood Sea Formation to its limit. My lord should have seen this. As for the group fighting me, they were also at their limit. But I sensed that both sides had kept something in reserve. I still had the Divine Seal unactivated, and I am certain they had secret techniques yet unused. I believe my lord could also see this," Wang Chen said solemnly.


    "Hmm," the Crown Prince of the Sky closed his eyes and nodded.


    "If I had activated the Divine Seal, they would have used their secret techniques. We would have fought to the death, yet still achieved no decisive victory. Thus, I leveraged this psychological aspect and did not use it. Besides, I should not have used it," Wang Chen continued.


    "Oh?"


    "My Divine Seal is different from others. It''s the ''Blood God Seal.'' If it were known, it would be detrimental to you. Even His Majesty, the Holy Emperor, should not know of it," Wang Chen said earnestly.


    "Hmm, you did well," the Crown Prince of the Sky nodded in satisfaction.


    Three dayster, Zhong Shan opened the doors and stepped out of the main hall.


    Zhao Suoxiang stood dutifully at the entrance, guarding Zhong Shan. Alongside him was a group of officials.


    The moment Zhong Shan opened the doors, they greeted him, "Greetings, Emperor Zhong!"


    Zhong Shan nced at them, noticing that some hands were still trembling. He smiled slightly, amused.


    These people had various emotions in their eyes��admiration, fear, envy, and jealousy.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded without saying much.


    "Old Zhao, how are your men?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Twenty brothers died, but the others are healing with medicinal pills. They''re fine," Zhao Suoxiang replied promptly.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Emperor Zhong, we owe you our deepest gratitude. Without you, the Yan Hong Dynasty would be in grave danger!" Wei Gong stepped forward and bowed.


    "No need for formalities. Now that the Yan Hong Dynasty is safe, we won''t intrude any longer," Zhong Shan replied.


    "No, no, Emperor Zhong, you''ve done us a great service. We haven''t yet repaid you. Please,e with me to the national treasury. Take whatever you like!" Wei Gong said eagerly.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at Wei Gong curiously.


    "This is a decision we all made together. Please, Emperor Zhong, do not decline!" Wei Gong insisted.


    Zhong Shan''s expression turned serious as he looked at the group. Finally, he shook his head. "There''s no need."


    "Emperor Zhong, but..." Wei Gong was anxious.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold. "Though I am not of the Yan Hong Dynasty, I advise you this: the national treasury is the reserve of the Yan Hong Dynasty, the emperor''s reserve, not your personal purse. Without the emperor''s permission, no one has the right to touch it. As ministers, you must have the awareness of a minister. Overstepping your bounds warrants death!"


    Zhong Shan''s stern reprimand startled everyone, causing them to shiver.


    "Thank you for the reminder, Emperor Zhong," Wei Gong said, his forehead drenched in cold sweat.


    "If you truly wish to thank me, deliver a message to Xiao Zhongxing," Zhong Shan said suddenly.


    "Emperor Zhong, please tell us. We will convey it to His Majesty," Wei Gong responded immediately.


    "Tell him, ''Once the matters between the Yan Hong Dynasty and the Taisui Heavenly Dynasty are settled, Zhong Shan invites him to visit the Daizong Dynasty for a meeting,''" Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, we will ensure your message is delivered," Wei Gong replied promptly.


    "Very well, farewell!" Zhong Shan said, then without paying further attention to the crowd, he quickly departed with Zhao Suoxiang.


    On the way, Zhao Suoxiang asked curiously, "Your Majesty, it''s none of our business whether their officials are loyal or not. Why not check their treasury? There might be some rare items."


    Zhong Shan shook his head and smiled lightly. "A state without loyal ministers is a state doomed to fail. The Yan Hong Dynasty exists in name only; it will soon fall into the hands of the Taisui Heavenly Dynasty. Why should we stoop to such petty behavior? Why tarnish our honorable deeds with filth?"


    Zhong Shan had felt a heavy heart upon arrival, but now he was leaving with a light heart. The frenzy that had gued him was swept away after confronting the Crown Prince of the Sky. From now on, he would never lose control. A Zhong Shan who did not lose control was a perfect Zhong Shan, a calm Zhong Shan, and one who would pose a great threat to the Crown Prince of the Sky.


    From this point forward, whenever Zhong Shan thought of the Crown Prince of the Sky, it would be with hatred but without agitation. A wise man''s revenge is far more terrifying than a brute''s revenge.


    Zhao Suoxiang seemed to understand Zhong Shan''s meaning and nodded, "Yes, Your Majesty."


    The group returned to the Blue me Empire, while the officials of the Yan Hong Dynasty watched Zhong Shan and his Iron Spear Army leave, their expressions a mix of emotions and peculiarities.


    In the northwest of Shenzhou, at the entrance to the Netherworld Sky.


    A man, d in mourning clothes, with a white cloth tied around his head and a sword wrapped in white cloth on his back, stood on the peak of a mountain, next to a white jade coffin. The man''s face was weary, his expressionplex. Biting his lip, he stepped forward, a white cloud lifting the coffin as he flew towards the entrance of the Netherworld Sky.


    "Who goes there?" a voice demanded.


    Two sword-wielding men suddenly appeared at the entrance.


    "Ah, this is top-grade Rnd jade. Little one, are you nning to use it to enter the Netherworld Sky and secure a good reincarnation? Perfect timing, as I need a servant. Why note with me?" a hideous man in ck robes flew over from behind.


    "Greetings, Bitter Sea Demon Lord!" the two gatekeepers immediately bowed.


    The hideous man in ck robes stared at the man in mourning clothes, but his eyes were fixed on the jade coffin.


    The man in mourning clothes nced coldly at the Bitter Sea Demon Lord.


    "What? You refuse?" the Bitter Sea Demon Lord said angrily.


    "I fear you don''t have the guts to take me in!" the man in mourning clothes snorted coldly.


    "Oh? Do you seek death?" the Bitter Sea Demon Lord said coldly.


    At that moment, the man slowly drew the sword wrapped in white cloth from his back, gently unwrapping it to reveal a sword emitting an icy aura.


    "A ninth-grade magical treasure?" the Bitter Sea Demon Lord eximed in shock.


    Instantly, he retreated, drawing his weapon in preparation. His eyes were filled with greed as he stared at the sword, a ninth-grade magical treasure, one of the strongest in the world.


    "Hmph!" the man in mourning clothes snorted coldly, ignoring himpletely.


    "Deliver this sword and this jade coffin to the Lord of the Netherworld Sky!" the man suddenlymanded the two gatekeepers.


    The Lord of the Netherworld Sky?


    Upon hearing his words, everyone was taken aback. The Bitter Sea Demon Lord''s eyes flickered with uncertainty. The Lord? To see the Lord? Was this man here to meet the Lord of the Netherworld Sky?


    If anyone else had said this, no one would have listened. "You want me to give this to the Lord of the Netherworld Sky? Just like that?" But this was a ninth-grade magical treasure, the strongest sword in the world coveted by all. And yet, he was using it merely as an introduction? And then there was thisrge piece of top-grade Rnd jade! What was this about?


    "What are you doing?" the gatekeeper asked.


    "Deliver these two items to the Lord of the Netherworld Sky immediately. The rest is none of your concern," the man said sternly.


    "Understood. Please,e inside," the gatekeeper said, immediately showing respect.


    Using a ninth-grade magical treasure as a calling card was enough to warrant serious attention. The man was led to the entrance of the Netherworld Sky, where they emerged from arge pool and arrived at the exit.


    The exit area was filled with numerous buildings, serving as the residences for the gatekeepers.


    "Honored guest, please wait here with some tea. We will deliver these items to the Lord immediately," the gatekeeper said.


    "No, I will wait here for him," the man insisted.


    "Uh, as you wish," the gatekeeper responded, stunned. Wait for him? Would the Lorde to see you? The Bitter Sea Demon Lord, standing nearby, also had a peculiar expression and did not leave immediately, choosing to wait as well.


    Soon, the sword and the jade coffin were taken away.


    The man patiently waited at the entrance of the Netherworld Sky.


    Half a dayter, the items reached the Yin-Yang Border Mountain, where a newly built grand hall stood as a temporary residence for Jian Ao.


    The Sword Hall!


    The Sword Hall was surrounded by an endless array of swords, each one appearing to be a peerless divine weapon, embedded in the ground. The eaves of the central Sword Hall jutted out in the shape of swords. Outside the hall stood many powerful guards, protecting the Lord within. Leading them was Chujiu Mo Luo, who had always followed Jian Ao.


    Soon, the two individuals carrying the sword and the jade coffin arrived at the Sword Hall.


    "What is this?" Chujiu Mo Luo asked sternly.


    "Someone outside asked us to deliver these items to the Lord. Please verify, Chujiu Mo Luo," the two said immediately.


    Chujiu Mo Luo frowned slightly, grabbing the sword. As he grasped it, his eyebrows raised, and his eyes showed a look of shock. He then used his divine sense to inspect the sealed coffin, and his expression changed.


    "Where is the person?" Chujiu Mo Luo asked immediately.


    "Waiting at the entrance of the Netherworld Sky," the two responded.


    "Hurry, treat him with the highest respect. No, you won''t be as fast as the Lord himself!" Chujiu Mo Luo said, changing his mind mid-sentence. He carefully lifted the jade coffin and sword with a spell and rushed into the Sword Hall.


    The two gatekeepers exchanged a nce, seeing the shock in each other''s eyes. Treating him with the highest respect? Not as fast as the Lord? Did this mean the Lord himself would hurry to meet the person after seeing these items?


    They felt a wave of relief, d they had not offended the man.

 Chapter 583: Proclamation to the World

    <h4>Chapter 583: Promation to the World</h4>


    The two gatekeepers waited outside the Sword Hall, their minds racing with guesses about the identity of the mysterious man.


    Suddenly, they were startled to see the divine swords embedded in the ground around the vast area of the Sword Hall begin to tremble one by one.


    "Hummmmmmmmmmm..."


    One sword after another trembled continuously, as if influenced by some powerful emotion. This emotion could onlye from within the Sword Hall, from the Lord Jian Ao himself.


    In an instant, a divine sword shot up into the sky, followed by all the other swords. They rose into the air without any sign of magical energy. This was sword intent, the strongest esoteric concept of swordsmanship that only the Lord of the Netherworld Sky couldmand.


    A million divine swords, as if suddenly imbued with life, began to spin rapidly in the sky. The entire area around the Yin-Yang Border Mountain was filled with countless divine swords. This was not sword qi but actual swords, each terrifyingly real.


    Each sword carried an aura of deep malevolence��anger, boundless fury. The overwhelming emotion pressed down on the two gatekeepers, making them kneel in terror.


    "Boom!"


    In a bizarre turn of events, after the surge of malevolent energy, the swords exploded with boundless sword qi. Could these swords also release sword qi?


    Not only the two gatekeepers but also the surrounding guards were gulping nervously.


    "Whoosh!"


    Strangely, after a moment, the swords returned to their original ces, embedding themselves back into the ground with no deviation, an eerie sight.


    Silence fell over the area, and then everyone saw a figure flying towards the distance. It was Chujiu Mo Luo.


    As for the Lord, his speed was beyond theirprehension.


    At the entrance to the Netherworld Sky.


    A gust of wind blew, and a white-robed man with shoulder-length ck hair suddenly appeared out of nowhere, holding the ninth-grade divine sword from earlier. Beside him was the piece of top-grade Rnd jade.


    "Greetings, Lord!" Everyone at the entrance bowed deeply.


    The Bitter Sea Demon Lord, who had earlier coveted the coffin, felt a jolt of fear in his heart.


    "Do you recognize the person in the coffin?" the resolute man suddenly asked.


    "Who is it?" Jian Ao asked, closing his eyes, his voice cold and indifferent.


    Despite the indifference, the coldness in his voice sent chills through everyone, even causing the Bitter Sea Demon Lord to tremble.


    The resolute man was none other than Xiao Zhongxing, the emperor of the Yan Hong Dynasty and the son of Jian Hong.


    Instead of answering Jian Ao, Xiao Zhongxing stepped forward, dispelling the restrictions on the coffin with a p. He grabbed the coffin lid and tossed it aside, revealing the scene inside.


    Top-grade Rnd jade can preserve a corpse for a thousand years. Jian Hong''s body was still in its original state.


    Her entire body was severely injured, with armspletely broken, chest shattered, ribs crushed, and heart mangled. Her body was covered with ck bruises, hair matted and congealed with blood, face disfigured by dried blood.


    It was a horrifically tragic sight, her death unimaginably brutal.


    Even the Bitter Sea Demon Lord, watching from a distance, felt a chill in his heart. Who was this woman to have died so miserably? What would her loved ones do upon seeing her like this?


    "Before she died, my mother told me to bring her to you just like this, ''intact,'' so you could see for yourself. See if you still choose to remain indifferent!" Xiao Zhongxing shouted.


    Xiao Zhongxing''s outburst not only startled the Bitter Sea Demon Lord but also revealed a connection between this woman and the Lord of the Netherworld Sky. This was serious. The Bitter Sea Demon Lord felt relieved that he had not acted against the young man earlier, though even his verbal offense now seemed too much.


    "Zhongxing," Jian Ao said calmly.


    "You acknowledge me?" Xiao Zhongxing''s eyebrows raised, his face darkened.


    "Three thousand years ago, during my first reincarnation, I founded the Sword God Pce. In my second reincarnation, I achieved the goals of my past self. Now, having fully integrated my previous incarnations, their memories are mine. I am my past selves, and naturally, I acknowledge you," Jian Ao said, suppressing his fury.


    "Grandfather!" Xiao Zhongxing suddenly cried out, kneeling.


    Grandfather? The Bitter Sea Demon Lord''s eyes rolled back in shock, almost fainting. He trembled with fear as he looked at Xiao Zhongxing.


    "Grandfather, you must avenge my mother. She died so horribly, so horribly!" Xiao Zhongxing wept uncontrobly, clutching Jian Ao''s leg, finally able to release the grief he had been holding back.


    "Tell me everything," Jian Ao demanded, his voice icy as he grasped the coffin.


    "It happened like this..." Xiao Zhongxing began, recounting everything through his tears.


    Jian Ao listened quietly, saying nothing, his hand gently caressing Jian Hong''s corpse. Even in death, he meticulously tended to her injuries, cleaned her wounds, and smoothed her hair.


    He even dressed her in a new red robe. Those nearby respectfully turned their backs, not daring to desecrate her body with their gazes.


    Jian Ao restored her ravaged body to its original state, washing away the dried blood and dirt. He gentlyid her back in the coffin, every movement tender and precise.


    As Xiao Zhongxing recounted the past, Jian Ao continued to care for Jian Hong''s body. The two seemed absorbed in their tasks, with Xiao Zhongxing lost in his memories and Jian Ao focused solely on his daughter.


    When Xiao Zhongxing finished his story, Jian Ao hadpleted his careful work on Jian Hong''s body. She no longer appeared as a tragic figure but rather like a sleeping beauty, peaceful save for her pallor and stillness.


    Xiao Zhongxing, tears streaming down his face, knelt before the coffin.


    Jian Ao reached out, summoning an abundance of red roses from the distance.


    "Hong''er, these are your favorite red roses. I''ve brought you many, including this special me rose you loved to wear in your hair," Jian Ao said, his voice filled with sorrow and love.


    He covered her body with roses, then delicately ced the me rose in her hair.


    "Did Hong''er say anything else to you?" Jian Ao asked Xiao Zhongxing.


    "Yes, yes, she did," Xiao Zhongxing replied.


    "Mother said, ''Grandfather won''t abandon us. He loves his daughter the most. He just hasn''t regained his past memories yet.''"


    "She said, ''Grandfather spoils his daughter. He would even fetch the stars for her if she asked.''"


    "Mother also said, ''No matter who it is, if they bully me, Grandfather will make sure they''re beaten to a pulp.''"


    "Mother said, ''Grandfather is our only family now, our most important family member. He won''t let anyone bully us.''"


    "She said, ''If she ever met with misfortune, Grandfather would avenge her. He will, he will!''"


    As Xiao Zhongxing spoke, he was ovee with sobs.


    At this moment, even Jian Ao''s proud eyes were filled with tears. As he touched Jian Hong''s face, his eyes were full of sorrow��a grief that onlyes when a parent buries their child.


    "I will, I will. I will avenge you. No matter who it is, I will," Jian Ao said through his tears, his voice cold.


    "Shen Qitian? Shen Qitian? Roar!"


    Finally, Jian Ao roared in his overwhelming grief.


    The treasured child of his past life, the daughter he cherished most after the death of his wife, had died so tragically. This boundless rage surged through Jian Ao''s mind.


    This roar reverberated through the entire Netherworld Sky. Only the Lord could make his voice heard throughout the realm.


    Everyone in the Netherworld Sky was startled by the roar.


    "Shen Qitian, you killed my daughter, I will annihte your entire n!" Jian Ao vowed coldly.


    "Proim my order!" Jian Ao''s words silenced the entire Netherworld Sky.


    "Listening to the Lord''smand!" everyone bowed.


    "The Netherworld Sky shall not coexist with the Monkey Ape n. From this moment, all in the Netherworld Sky are to exterminate the Monkey Ape n. Those at the Gold Core stage must kill ten thousand apes; those at the Nascent Soul stage must kill one hundred thousand apes; those at the Integration stage must kill one million apes; Mo Luo must kill ten million apes; Mo Jun must kill one hundred million apes. I want the world rid of monkeys within ten years!" Jian Aomanded coldly.


    "We obey the Lord''smand!" countless voices echoed through the Netherworld Sky.


    "Proim this to the world!" Jian Ao continued.


    Everyone listened intently.


    "The Netherworld Sky and the Monkey Ape n shall share a life-and-death enmity. Any who ally with the Monkey Ape n will be considered enemies of the Netherworld Sky."


    "Yes!" everyone shouted, already envisioning the immense turmoil this promation would cause.


    "Grandfather..." Xiao Zhongxing said, his heart swelling with emotion.


    "Rise. I will avenge Hong''er. Shen Qitian is doomed!" Jian Ao''s voice was icy cold.


    Doomed!


    These three words were not mere boast but an undeniable fact to everyone who heard them. Jian Ao was furious.


    In his past life, Jian Ao had been the number one sword god in the world. Now, with the memories of his past life awakened and his current self having surpassed his former self, he was even more formidable.


    The deration that "Shen Qitian is doomed" sealed Shen Qitian''s fate.


    It also decided the fate of the Monkey Ape n. Jian Ao would see the world rid of them.

 Chapter 584: The Greatest Elixir in the World

    <h4>Chapter 584: The Greatest Elixir in the World</h4>


    After an absence of two and a half months, Zhong Shan returned to Blue me City with Zhao Suoxiang!


    News of Zhong Shan''s victory against the Taisui Heavenly Dynasty''s army at Yan Hong City had also reached Blue me City.


    When the Blue me Emperor heard that Zhong Shan had repelled the Taisui Heavenly Dynasty''s army with only five thousand soldiers, he was stunned. After all, this was the invincible army led by the Crown Prince of the Sky, known for his undefeated record and unstoppable force.


    Had Zhong Shan really forced them to retreat?


    How was that possible? Zhong Shan had taken only five thousand disposable soldiers. How could he have won? It was unbelievable, absolutely impossible.


    The Blue me Emperor and his prime minister were in disbelief. How could the Crown Prince of the Sky, a renowned military genius of the West, have retreated?


    But when they saw the images in the memory crystal handed to them by the scouts, their jaws dropped. Who was this Zhong Shan? How could he be so formidable? Was that sword strike even humanly possible?


    And what about the Iron Spear Camp? Was this truly the power of the Iron Spear Camp? They had always thought it was a mediocre force. How had these five thousand soldiers disyed such overwhelming strength?


    Remembering Zhong Shan''s words before he left, both men fell silent. Had they really given such a powerful army to Zhong Shan?


    The Blue me Emperor''s eyes turned cold.


    "Your Majesty, what''s lost is lost. Don''t let it affect your rtionship with Zhong Shan," the prime minister sighed.


    Thinking about Zhong Shan, the man who had managed to repel the Crown Prince of the Sky, the Blue me Emperor took a deep breath and nodded reluctantly.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan, led by a servant, returned to the site of the Ten Thousand Elixirs Conference.


    The Blue me Emperor immediately approached him.


    "Congrattions, Emperor Zhong, on your victory over the Crown Prince of the Sky. This will surely be a tale spread across the world!" the Blue me Emperor said with a smile.


    "Oh? Is my reputation not greater than that of the Crown Prince of the Sky?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "Uh?" The Blue me Emperor was momentarily taken aback.


    Indeed, was Zhong Shan''s reputation not greater? The Crown Prince of the Sky''s influence was limited to the Western Shenzhou, whereas Zhong Shan''s numerous achievements had impacted the entire world.


    Zhong Shan''s Heavenly Copse n, a business war that toppled two dynasties, had caused every dynasty to change their strategies. His quest for the immortal elixir had caused a sensation with the Phoenixes, and his triumphant return had been witnessed by billions. He had yed a crucial role in the downfall of the Elysium and the establishment of his own dynasty within a few short decades.


    Could all these grand achievements bepared to those of the Crown Prince of the Sky?


    It was clear that the Blue me Emperor''s perception was overly influenced by the Western Shenzhou.


    "Emperor Zhong is right. I was being presumptuous," the Blue me Emperor said with an awkward smile.


    "Now that the siege of Yan Hong has been lifted, I will no longer interfere in your Western affairs," Zhong Shan said, nodding.


    "Thank you for your efforts," the Blue me Emperor replied.


    With nothing more to say, they parted ways. The Blue me Emperor returned to his throne, and Zhong Shan rejoined Qian You and the others.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s return, everyone was overjoyed.


    "Are you alright?" Qian You asked anxiously, though she could see he was fine.


    "I''m fine. We had quite a harvest this time," Zhong Shan said with a smile, handing over a memory crystal that recorded the events of that day.


    Qian You immediately began to watch the memory crystal, while Zhong Shan simply smiled.


    The harvest had indeed been plentiful. While gaining Zhao Suoxiang''s allegiance was significant, the greatest gain was within Zhong Shan himself. He had healed the psychological w that had previously gued him. Now, even thoughts of the Crown Prince of the Sky would not cause him to lose control. This breakthrough in self-mastery marked a step towards a more perfect and bnced Zhong Shan.


    Around them, countless alchemists continued to watch the Eternal Alchemy tform with tireless concentration, growing more intense and excited with each passing moment.


    Atop the Eternal Alchemy tform, only three alchemy furnaces remained, as all other alchemists had already stepped down.


    "Your Majesty, in the two and a half months you were away, twelve alchemists have sessfully refined ninth-grade divine pills, including an alchemist from the Dali Heavenly Dynasty!" Ah Da exined.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded, continuing to observe the tform above.


    Three groups remained: the outermost group led by the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint, the second group with the Great Qin''s Xu Fu, and the central group featuring Bao''er.


    All three were working on refining supreme divine pills.


    No one dared to underestimate Bao''er and Xu Fu anymore. While many had initially focused on the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint''s techniques, attention had gradually shifted to the other two.


    All three had achieved the pinnacle of alchemy, their pill breath manifesting vividly.


    The Tiger Dragon Pill Saint''s round furnace was enveloped by a constant stream of auspicious energy and merit, channeling into the furnace. A dense purple mist surrounded the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint, forming a vivid scene above the furnace.


    A purple dragon and a purple tiger circled the furnace, heralding the imminent birth of a supreme divine pill.


    This was the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint''s technique, the Tiger Dragon Fetus Breath Technique.


    Countless onlookers learned much from observing the Pill Saint, who generously disyed every technique without reservation, embodying the demeanor of a grandmaster.


    In the second circle, Xu Fu.


    People considered him on par with the Pill Saint for good reason. Above Xu Fu''s massive ck furnace, a remarkable scene also unfolded.


    A massive ck dragon, formed from the furnace''s pill breath, slowly rotated around the furnace, exuding a powerful, explosive energy.


    The ck dragon created by Xu Fu''s pill breath was even clearer than the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint''s manifestations, appearing almost tangible and significantlyrger.


    In the center was Bao''er.


    Bao''er used the massive Heaven and Earth Mysterious Yellow Cauldron, fueled by the pitiful Suzaku, forced to continuously release its Nanming Lihuo. Thanks to Ling''er''s constantfort and provision of food, Suzaku hadn''t fled.


    Above Bao''er''s cauldron, the pill breath formed a beautiful scene: a hundred celestial cranes gently flying around the cauldron, their melodious calls creating an idyllic, picturesque environment. Despite their small size, the sheer number of cranes and their harmonious cries drew most of the audience''s attention.


    Pill breath manifestation!


    This was a legendary urrence in Shenzhou''s history, where only peerless alchemists, when refining supreme divine pills, could manifest such phenomena. It had been nearly twenty thousand years since such a sight had been witnessed. Even the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint had never achieved this before.


    It was evident that the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint had made significant breakthroughs in his alchemical arts. Without the presence of Bao''er and Xu Fu, he would undoubtedly have reimed the title of the greatest alchemist in Shenzhou. However, the presence of these two equally formidable figures made the situation quite intriguing.


    Everyone watched in anticipation.


    Zhong Shan waited patiently as well. After watching the memory crystal, Gu Qianyou''s heart was at ease, knowing Zhong Shan had ovee his psychological w. Her face beamed with joy.


    The two resumed their wait quietly, once again taking out a Go board to y while waiting.


    Suddenly, two earth-shaking roars emanated from the Eternal Alchemy tform.


    One was the roar of a dragon, the other the roar of a tiger.


    It was the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint. Above his alchemy furnace, the dragon and tiger each let out a long roar before descending rapidly, plunging into the furnace.


    Without any obstruction, they shrank and disappeared into the furnace along the mouth from which the pill breath was emitted.


    The roars echoed from within the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint''s furnace. Despite his pale face, he couldn''t hide his excitement and joy.


    "The pill isplete!" one of the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint''s disciples shouted excitedly.


    The pill was finallyplete. As countless expectant eyes watched, the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint performed a hand gesture, and the lid of the furnace slowly lifted. Instantly, arge amount of red light shot into the sky, the scent of the pill filling the air.


    Almost every alchemist craned their necks to see.


    With a wave of his hand, a golden-red pill the size of a dragon''s eye flew out of the furnace. The red light that had been emanating from the furnace seemed to find its home in the pill, retreating into it. The pill bore the faint, totem-like images of a dragon and a tiger, appearing both illusory and magnificent.


    "Li Yun Pill? The greatest divine pill, Li Yun Pill?" a surprised alchemist eximed.


    "Li Yun Pill? Is it true? That is the highest-grade pill in Shenzhou legend, the top of the ninth grade, no, the pinnacle of ninth-grade pills. The Li Yun Pill!"


    "Master, what is a Li Yun Pill?" a young alchemist asked.


    His question drew looks of disdain from everyone around. How could he not know what a Li Yun Pill was? How did he even qualify to attend the Ten Thousand Elixirs Conference?


    "The Li Yun Pill is the holy medicine for healing. Whether the primordial spirit is damaged, the soul shattered, or the body crippled, no matter how severe the injury, as long as there is a breath left, one Li Yun Pill is enough for aplete recovery. A full, thorough recovery!" someone exined.


    The young alchemist gasped upon hearing his master''s exnation.


    No wonder it was hailed as the greatest divine pill; its capabilities were astonishing.


    "Congrattions, Tiger Dragon Pill Saint, for refining the Li Yun Divine Pill," many alchemists said with admiration.


    "You tter me!" the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint smiled, cing the Li Yun Pill on a jade te.


    "We speak the truth. It has been nearly twenty thousand years since anyone has refined this pill. Being able to witness its creation is a blessing for us," an alchemist said with deep emotion.


    As the alchemists continued to marvel at the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint''s achievement, thepetition among the remaining contestants grew even fiercer. Bao''er and Xu Fu''s efforts had everyone on edge, knowing that the oue could still change dramatically.

 Chapter 585: The Divine Pill is Made, Reaching the Skies

    <h4>Chapter 585: The Divine Pill is Made, Reaching the Skies</h4>


    "It''s the truth. The Li Yun Pill hasn''t been sessfully refined for nearly twenty thousand years. We are fortunate to witness its creation," one alchemist remarked with profound respect.


    "The path of alchemy must not be rigid. Only through diversity can we achieve greater heights. During the refinement of the Li Yun Pill, I demonstrated one thousand two hundred and twenty-four techniques. Even if you didn''t master them all, you should have gained some insights. Pass this pill around and study it," the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint generously offered.


    "Thank you, Tiger Dragon Pill Saint!" everyone responded respectfully.


    The Li Yun Pill was ced on a jade te and passed around. These were the top alchemists in Shenzhou; even by just smelling the pill, they could glean some understanding. Though this was an exaggeration, they could undoubtedly learn much from closely examining the pill.


    Relieved from the scrutiny, the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint exhaled deeply. The two and a half months of pill refinement had been exhausting.


    Turning to look at the Eternal Alchemy tform, he noticed Gan Bao''er and Xu Fu. During the refinement process, he had paid attention to their techniques and realized their pills were on par with his.


    A violent ck dragon, a hundred cranes singing in harmony. What were they refining?


    He had never heard of such things before!


    "Second Uncle, congrattions!" Lan Tianwei approached with a smile.


    "Oh? You''ve been here all this time?" the Pill Saint raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, the Ten Thousand Elixirs Conference happens only once every thousand years. I had to observe and learn," Lan Tianwei said.


    The Pill Saint took a deep breath and shook his head. "No matter how high the art of alchemy, it is a minor path. Your path is that of an eternal emperor. Do not lose sight of your main goal."


    "Yes, I understand," Lan Tianwei replied, slightly embarrassed.


    Seeing Lan Tianwei''s expression, the Pill Saint shook his head, unsure of what to say.


    An hourter, after bathing and changing, the Pill Saint returned. The Li Yun Pill was still being passed around.


    The Pill Saint sat near Zhong Shan, watching Gan Bao''er and Xu Fu on the tform. Suddenly, he stood up in surprise.


    "What technique is this?" the Pill Saint whispered in astonishment.


    As he watched Bao''er and Xu Fu, his eyes filled with wonder.


    He observed for an entire day and night,pletely engrossed in their techniques. It wasn''t until the next day that he seemed to wake from a trance.


    Looking at the two once more, the Pill Saint turned to Zhong Shan and his group.


    He approached Zhong Shan.


    "Emperor Zhong!" the Pill Saint greeted politely.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at the Pill Saint.


    "I have a question and would like Emperor Zhong to enlighten me," the Pill Saint began.


    "Please, ask away," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "It''s like this. Perhaps it''s my ignorance, but I''ve encountered many alchemical techniques throughout the world. Even if I don''t fully understand them, I recognize their names. However, the techniques used by those two above��Xu Fu and Gan Bao''er��I don''t recognize most of them. Let''s set aside Xu Fu for now. Gan Bao''er''s techniques resemble known alchemical methods but are more refined and profound. These techniques, while simr tomon Shenzhou methods, have never been seen before. Are these Gan Bao''er''s own creations?" the Pill Saint asked seriously.


    His own creations? These were techniques recorded in Bao''er''s Ancient Pill Scroll, from which countless alchemical methods had been derived. It was only natural that Bao''er''s techniques were more intricate.


    "Hehe, you''d have to ask Bao''er about that. I''m not entirely sure since I don''t practice alchemy," Zhong Shan replied straightforwardly.


    "Uh?"


    The Pill Saint was momentarily taken aback, then nodded thoughtfully. "My apologies for being presumptuous. Emperor Zhong, as the ruler of an empire, naturally has no need to practice alchemy."


    "It''s tooplicated for me to remember," Zhong Shan said politely.


    "Emperor Zhong is being modest. Among all the paths, the path of the emperor is the mostplex. It is the great path of heaven and earth. It''s fine if you don''t delve into the minor path of alchemy," the Pill Saint shook his head.


    "What do you think of Xu Fu''s alchemical methods?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "Strange!" the Pill Saint said.


    "Oh?"


    "Xu Fu''s methods are even more mysterious. I''ve never seen anything like them. While Gan Bao''er''s techniques still bear traces of Shenzhou''s alchemical methods, Xu Fu''s techniques are fundamentally different. Many of his methods arepletely contrary to traditional practices. It''s unimaginable that such techniques could produce pills. In the past, I would never have believed it. But Xu Fu executes them with such proficiency. I must be ignorant," the Pill Saint sighed, shaking his head.


    "You mean Xu Fu''s alchemical techniques aren''t from Shenzhou?" Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, pondering.


    "Perhaps I am simply ignorant," the Pill Saint replied, shaking his head again in self-deprecation.


    "Thank you, Tiger Dragon Pill Saint," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Emperor Zhong, you''re wee," the Pill Saint replied.


    Everyone continued to wait patiently for four more days, during which the Li Yun Pill was returned to the Pill Saint.


    On this day, everyone was quietly waiting.


    Suddenly, Xu Fu made a gesture with his hands.


    "Break!"


    Xu Fu shouted, and a ck light shot from his fingers into the furnace.


    "Roaaarrr!"


    The ck dragon, formed from pill breath, roared and dove into the furnace. A vast heavenly aura arose.


    "Boom!"


    The sky suddenly filled with dark clouds, and countless thunderclouds gathered over the Eternal Alchemy tform.


    At almost the same moment, Bao''er reached the final stage of her process.


    "Go!"


    Bao''er shouted, and a green light shot from her fingers into the Heaven and Earth Mysterious Yellow Cauldron. The hundred celestial cranes formed from pill breath pped their wings and dove into the cauldron.


    "Boom!"


    The sky grew even darker, densely packed with thunderclouds, as if the world were ending.


    "Heavenly Tribtion?" the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint eximed.


    With his shout, nearly all the alchemists echoed in surprise.


    "Heavenly Tribtion?"


    "How could there be a Heavenly Tribtion? Heavenly thunder destroying the world��who is reaching the Heavenly Extreme Realm? Who is undergoing tribtion?"


    The crowd was abuzz with fear. People wanted to flee, at least to quickly get away from Blue me City. Undergoing a tribtion in such a densely popted area was courting disaster. The more people, the greater the tribtion''s strength. Stronger tribtion means it''s harder to survive. Attempting it in a crowd was sheer madness.


    People were desperate to escape; they didn''t want to risk their lives because someone else was courting death. Swiftly leaving this ce was the only option to avoid misfortune.


    "No, this isn''t a heavenly tribtion; it''s a pill tribtion!" Amidst themotion, the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint suddenly eximed.


    A pill tribtion?


    This deration struck everyone like a cold wave, freezing their hearts and making them momentarily stop.


    A pill tribtion? A pill tribtion urs when the grade of the pill exceeds the ninth grade, reaching the level of a celestial pill, triggering a heavenly tribtion.


    That was the stuff of ancient legends, a mythical urrence in the annals of alchemy. It was said that ten thousand years ago, someone had refined a celestial pill. Ten thousand years��a time so distant it seemed eternal.


    For others, a pill tribtion might be terrifying, but for these grandmasters dedicated to alchemy, it was an unmissable moment.


    Pill tribtion! Was it truly a pill tribtion?


    Everyone looked at the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint, but he was too absorbed to exin, staring intently at the Eternal Alchemy tform.


    No one ran anymore; they all held their breath, watching the tform with the reverence and excitement of mortals witnessing an ancient celestial being.


    Celestial pills? The legendary celestial pills that could transform a person into an immortal. Could it be true? Had someone really refined such pills?


    The two alchemists seemed to be reaching the final stage simultaneously. Whose pill would truly be a celestial pill?


    At nearly the same moment, the two alchemists opened their furnace lids with a wave of their hands.


    "Roaaarrr!"


    From Xu Fu''s furnace, a phantom image of a vast ck river surged out, a torrent of endless ck water shooting into the sky, piercing the clouds. Within this ck river, a ck dragon ascended.


    In the sky, dark clouds swirled around the ck river''s phantom column, crackling with endless lightning, ready to strike at any moment.


    On the other side, as Bao''er opened her Heaven and Earth Mysterious Yellow Cauldron, a simr phantom beam shot into the sky, piercing the thunderclouds and forming an immense vortex.


    Bao''er''s phantom beam wasn''t a ck river but a column of entwined white and ck lights, resonating with the cries of countless cranes.


    Two furnaces producing celestial pills?


    Everyone was dumbfounded. Celestial pills had be mythical because of their rarity. It was said that only one appeared every ten thousand years, making them infinitely scarce, existing only in legends. Without seeing one, people doubted their existence.


    But now, the pill tribtion confirmed the existence of celestial pills. That alone was an astonishing rarity. And now, to see that both these individuals had refined celestial pills?


    How could the gathered alchemy grandmasters cope with such an unprecedented event?


    Despite their disbelief, the alchemists couldn''t help but feel a surge of excitement and admiration. Even the Tiger Dragon Pill Saint''s lips trembled uncontrobly. Celestial pills��true celestial pills! The creation of celestial pills had pierced the heavens!

 Chapter 586: Competing for the Immortal Pill

    <h4>Chapter 586: Competing for the Immortal Pill</h4>


    The pills were formed! Piercing through the clouds!


    Two streams of ethereal pill energy shot straight into the sky, piercing through dense ck clouds.


    The celestial tribtion intensified, with powerful thunderbolts shing as if ready to strike down and shatter the newly formed immortal pills.


    The oppressive force of the tribtion stirred up fierce winds below, but it did not dampen the enthusiasm of the onlookers. Everyone knew this tribtion was aimed solely at the immortal pills.


    They must survive this ordeal; everyone yearned to catch a glimpse of the immortal pills.


    Terrifying ck clouds gathered thicker and denser, threatening to burst at any moment.


    The entire city of Blue me was engulfed in uncertainty due to this tribtion, prompting countless residents to flee.


    As the ck clouds pressed down, in a brief moment, they triggered a response from the city''s protective array��the Nine Heavens Divine Thunder Formation.


    Instantly, beneath the ck clouds, the thunderous brilliance of the city''s defensive array erupted, spewing countless bolts of lightning into the clouds. Before the lightning from the ck clouds could strike, the array''s thunderbolts seemed poised to strike first.


    Seeing this, Emperor Blue me''s heart skipped a beat. He immediately gestured and a blue light shot into the sky.


    In an instant, the thunder within the array suddenly dissipated, revealing an unexpectedly clear sky. However, the ck clouds showed no sign of dispersing; instead, they seemed to be increasing.


    Outside Blue me City, on a distant mountaintop, two figures suddenly appeared out of thin air.


    One wore dragon robes and a white jade crown, his expression solemn. An aura of superiority radiated in all directions. If Zhongshan were here, he would immediately recognize him as the Holy Emperor of Great Departure, Nie Fanchen!


    The other figure was the Chief Eunuch of Great Departure, who had secretly taken Zhongshan to meet Nie Fanchen during hisst visit.


    Although just a eunuch, Zhongshan had deduced from his ability to disappear like a sh that he was also an extraordinary expert, a transcendent realm master!


    The two suddenly appeared on the mountaintop, gazing at Blue me City in the distance, covered in dense ck clouds.


    "Your Majesty, is this the pill tribtion?" the old eunuch frowned and asked.


    "The pill tribtion... so it''s true. Does the Eternal Sacred Altar truly possess such power?" Nie Fanchen''s eyes gleamed with hope and seriousness as he looked towards Blue me City in the distance.


    In Blue me City, above the Eternal Sacred Altar.


    Bao''er and Xu Fu showed no signs of panic, calmly gazing at the sky.


    Perhaps the ck clouds had finally gathered enough energy. Suddenly, lightning crackled in all directions. Two massive bolts descended directly along the ethereal pill''s path.


    "Whoosh~~~"


    Above the Eternal Sacred Altar, a sudden whirlwind swept up, and the merit and fortune above suddenly shone brightly. In an instant, it covered the entire Eternal Sacred Altar, enveloping it in a dazzling light.


    The surging brightness turned the surroundings as bright as day, momentarily blinding everyone.


    Yet this intense light strangely surged upwards, dissolving the two lightning bolts. It pierced through the thunderclouds, shooting straight into the sky.


    In an instant, Blue me City seemed to have gained an extra sun, and in the blink of an eye, the dense ck clouds vanished. The colossal tribtion disappeared in an instant.


    With a sh of intense light, almost instantaneously, everyone regained their sight.


    But what about the dark clouds in the sky? Where did the tribtion''s cloud go? It vanished? How could that be?


    Looking again at the Eternal Sacred Altar, the merit and fortune atop it had each diminished by half.


    What had happened just now?


    People couldn''t understand, couldn''t grasp it. But one thing was certain: when faced with the descent of the tribtion, the Eternal Sacred Altar somehow resisted it and destroyed the tribtion?


    Countless mouths gaped in disbelief. Where did this Eternal Sacred Altare from? How could it possess such extraordinary abilities?


    Meanwhile, Zhongshan''s eyes gleamed with boundless excitement.


    Merit? Fortune? After their fusion, they possessed such immense power? What kind of power was this? What was happening?


    Just moments ago, the merit and fortune were not abundant, not even a hundredth of what the Great Gou Empire possessed. But with just a small amount of merit and fortunebined, it created such a tremendous impact?


    Could it be that merit and fortune could originally fuse together?


    No, if that were true, there would have been precedents in the Divine Land long ago. But this was pointing in a different direction.


    In the past, Zhongshan believed that merit and fortune could only be collected and then used to enhance one''s cultivation. Could they only passively be collected and not used for attack?


    No, countless sects and dynasties in the Divine Land had proven otherwise. But what just happened?


    That was a tribtion! Even though it was much weaker than transcending to immortality, it couldn''t be dispelled with just a sh of light. What was this light?


    Zhongshan concluded in his heart that this must be an astonishing secret, one that, once unraveled, would bring endless benefits. But could such a mystery be easily solved?


    The fusion of merit and fortune? What could that be?


    Could they fuse together? Many in the Divine Land had pondered this question, but it had never seeded before, let alone demonstrated its divine power. Yet what Zhongshan saw now assured him: it could, it must!


    Zhongshan clenched his fist, gazing at the Eternal Sacred Altar with even greater ambition. He had to obtain this Eternal Sacred Altar.


    "What about the tribtion?"


    "What was that intense light just now?"


    "The Eternal Sacred Altar can defend against tribtion? It''s so powerful? With the Eternal Sacred Altar, can we refine immortal pills indefinitely?"


    "But what good would it do you? Can you refine immortal pills?"


    The crowd buzzed with excitement, almost everyone astonished by the astounding scene just now.


    But in the next moment, as if by silent agreement, they all fell silent, focusing their gaze on the Eternal Sacred Altar, on Bao''er and Xu Fu, on the two pill furnaces, and most importantly, on the immortal pills within them.


    An immortal pill, one in a hundred thousand years.


    Xu Fu turned to Bao''er, smiling faintly. "Friend Gan, quite remarkable!"


    "Friend Xu has exceptional skills too!" Bao''er replied politely.


    "I wonder, Friend Gan, what kind of immortal pill have you refined?" Xu Fu asked with a smile.


    Almost everyone held their breath, looking at Bao''er. Even the Dragon-Tiger Pill Saint below was excitedly watching the two.


    "What about you, Friend Xu?" Bao''er smiled.


    "So be it, if Friend Gan wishes to see, then let''s see!" Xu Fu suddenly said.


    With a gesture, the pill rose!


    The ethereal pill energy, previously resembling an image, hadpletely retracted into the pill furnace after the tribtion passed.


    In an instant, with a wave of Xu Fu''s hand, a mist of ck gradually emanated from the pill furnace. Soon after, everyone saw a shiny ck pill slowly float out of the furnace, surrounded by dense ck mist. The moment the pill emerged, a captivating fragrance filled the air, intoxicating almost everyone at the Grand Pill Conference. It was an ancient, indescribable scent that caused every pore in their bodies to rx.


    "What is this...?" Bao''er frowned, asking.


    The ck immortal pill flew out of the furnace and began to slowly revolve around Xu Fu.


    "Thanks to the Eternal Sacred Altar, this pill of mine has beenpletely refined. Its name is ''Ster Destiny''," Xu Fu said.


    "Ster Destiny? An immortal pill? What kind of pill is that?" almost everyone pondered, furrowing their brows.


    "Ster Destiny? It''s not an ''instrumental pill''," Bao''er spected.


    "Oh? Friend Gan is familiar with instrumental pills too?" Xu Fu smiled and asked.


    "Instrumental pills are rare items within pills. They''re not taken orally but used as weapons��offensive and defensive like treasures, yet more miraculous than treasures. They''re shaped like immortal tools!" Bao''er exined.


    "Immortal tools?" The gathered pill masters were astonished. Pills could be used as weapons? Was that possible?


    However, not far away, the Dragon-Tiger Pill Saint''s eyes lit up as if a long-sealed door in his heart had suddenly opened, revealing rity.


    "Haha! Friend Gan has profound knowledge. Who says pill masters can only refine medicine? Pill masters can be formidable in alchemy,parable to any warrior!" Xu Fuughed heartily.


    At the same time, to everyone''s amazement, the ''Ster Destiny'' pill revolving around Xu Fu suddenly split��one into two, two into four... In the blink of an eye, Xu Fu was surrounded by a dense cluster of Ster Destiny pills, each emanating an eerie aura. In just a short while, Xu Fu waspletely enveloped by the Ster Destiny pills, appearing invincible.


    "Congrattions, Xu Daoist!" Bao''er said.


    "Congrattions, Xu Daoist!" The Dragon-Tiger Pill Saint below also offered his congrattions.


    "Congrattions, Xu Daoist!" Almost all the pill masters bowed respectfully.


    "Hehe, what about Friend Gan?" Xu Fu ignored the others and fixed his gaze on Bao''er, his eyes revealing apetitive spirit.


    Bao''er smiled faintly and gestured to summon the pill.


    Suddenly, from the pill furnace, a beam of white and ck light shot out, and an immortal pill emerged. A myriad of floral fragrances dispersed in all directions, causing everyone at the Grand Pill Conference to feel their souls uplifted, deeply intoxicated for a moment.


    Bao''er used a jade bottle to contain one pill and ced the other on the jade te.


    "What kind of pill is this?" Xu Fu asked seriously.


    "I''ve created an oral immortal pill named ''Soul Return''," Bao''er replied with a smile.


    "Soul Return? The Soul Return pill?" Xu Fu frowned.


    "After death, within seven days, as long as one consumes this Soul Return pill, even if their soul has dispersed throughout heaven and earth, it will gather back to the body, allowing the person to return to life!" Bao''er confidently exined.

 Chapter 587: Nie Fancheng鈥檚 Ruthless Seizure

    <h4>Chapter 587: Nie Fancheng''s Ruthless Seizure</h4>


    "After a person dies, within seven days, if they consume this Resurrection Pill, the soul drawn to the underworld can be pulled back to the body, and the soul dispersed into the world will reunite with the body, allowing the person to return to life!" Bao''er said confidently.


    Return to life? Return to life?


    Upon hearing Bao''er''s words, all the alchemists were shocked to the extreme. This was too exaggerated, wasn''t it? Does that mean even the dead can be revived?


    Xu Fu''s ''Star Pill'' was an artifact pill, an artifact pill that none of the alchemists had encountered before, so they naturally did not know its effects. However, just hearing the name Resurrection Pill, they understood its profound mysteries.


    Resurrection, returning to life! This was beyond miraculous; it defied the heavens. Could the soul scattered in the world return to life? Could the ghost that entered the underworld return to life?


    Everyone held their breath, staring at the pill in Bao''er''s hand, each one so excited that they could hear their own heartbeat.


    The Divine Pill of Leaving Death, the world''s greatest elixir, could only save the living, healing the injuries of the living. How could itpare to this Resurrection Pill, which could even call back the souls of the dead?


    After the initial shock, the first thought that came to everyone''s mind was, ''Is it real?''. Eyes were fixed intently on the Resurrection Pill in Bao''er''s hand.


    Immortal Pill, no one had ever seen one. Resurrection Pill, no one knew about it. Was Bao''er telling the truth? Or was it a ruse? After all, the effects were too exaggerated.


    Return to life?


    Xu Fu stared at Bao''er. Here, only he had the qualification to contend with Bao''er for the ownership of the Eternal Sacred tform.


    The others were certainly excluded. Even the Alchemy Sage who created the world''s greatest elixir no longer had the qualification. No matter how powerful the Divine Pill of Leaving Death was, it was still a mortal pill, whereas the two pills created above were Immortal Pills!


    Which one was superior?


    Ling''er, holding the ''barely alive'' Vermilion Bird, immediately jumped off the Eternal Sacred tform and ran to Zhong Shan.


    At the moment she descended, the Vermilion Bird suddenly transformed into a red light, darting into Ling''er''s body. Ling''er was startled.


    "What happened?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Little Red has eaten all its food. I was about to ask you for more, but it was too weak and burrowed back into my body," Ling''er said, a bit frustrated.


    "Never mind, it worked hard this time. Next time, give it more to eat!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Mm!"


    On the Eternal Sacred tform, Xu Fu stared at the Resurrection Pill in Bao''er''s hand, his brow furrowed. Suddenly, Xu Fu''s pupils contracted, and he abruptly looked up at the sky.


    Xu Fu''s sudden expression immediately drew everyone''s attention, and they all looked up at the sky together.


    High in the sky, two figures stood out of nowhere.


    One was the Holy Emperor of the Great Li Empire, d in a dragon robe. The other was dressed as a eunuch.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty, long live the Emperor!"


    Everyone from the Great Li Empire simultaneously bowed in unison.


    The Emperor? The alchemists were slightly stunned. The Holy Emperor of the Great Li Empire, Nie Fancheng?


    "Greetings to the Holy Emperor of the Great Li Empire!" Almost everyone saluted together.


    Why had the Holy Emperore here? What was his purpose? Nie Fancheng, although observing from a distance, had only just arrived. He knew an Immortal Pill had been created but did not know which Immortal Pill it was.


    Thus, when Nie Fancheng saw the Star Pill beside Xu Fu and the Resurrection Pill in Bao''er''s hand, he slightly furrowed his brow.


    "It truly is an Immortal Pill. It seems the legends are true!" Nie Fancheng sighed softly.


    From the appearance of the two Immortal Pills, one could see the difference from ordinary pills. Immortal Pills were truly extraordinary.


    "I wonder why His Majesty, the Emperor of Great Li, has graced the Ten Thousand Pills Conference with his presence?" asked the Alchemy Sage Lan Longhu as he stepped forward.


    "Lan Longhu? You are no longer the Alchemy Sage, are you?" Nie Fancheng said indifferently.


    "Of course not. It is either Daoist Xu or Daoist Gan. Both have refined Immortal Pills, and since it is unclear who is superior, the next step is for the other alchemists to judge their merits and determine the new Alchemy Sage!" Lan Longhu replied, neither humble nor arrogant.


    Nie Fancheng nodded and looked at Bao''er and Xu Fu on the Eternal Sacred tform. Beside them were Zhihuo and Bai Ye.


    "I want this Eternal Sacred tform," Nie Fancheng suddenly dered.


    A loud uproar erupted at the Ten Thousand Pills Conference. The Eternal Sacred tform? Only the Alchemy Sage had the right to its custody. No power had ever dared to seize it by force, as this was a consensus overseen by all heavenly courts and holynds. Nie Fancheng wanted to seize it by force? And he hade in person?


    "On what grounds?" Tian Ling''er suddenly shouted.


    Tian Ling''er was furious. Sister Bao''er had refined two Immortal Pills, so she had surely won. The Eternal Sacred tform should belong to them, and they could take it back to Tiang Ind. How could he try to seize it? Moreover, her Vermilion Bird had worked tirelessly for a long time, and she felt sorry for it. After all their efforts, this "robber" wanted to take it?


    "Ling''er!" Nie Fancheng frowned.


    "We worked hard for months with Sister Bao''er to win this. Why should we give it to you just because you want it?" Ling''er pouted, ignoring him.


    Everyone was astonished by Ling''er''s tone, as if the Eternal Sacred tform was already theirs. But Nie Fancheng''s domineering intent to seize it only made them more displeased.


    Bao''er stepped down, bringing Zhihuo with her, and returned to Zhong Shan''s side.


    Xu Fu looked at Nie Fancheng with a strange smile, showing no anger.


    Nie Fancheng nced at Xu Fu and suddenly asked, "Who are you?"


    "An alchemist of Great Qin, Xu Fu!" Xu Fu replied solemnly.


    "Xu Fu? Great Qin? Do you intend to stop me?" Nie Fancheng asked.


    Nie Fancheng''s tone was very peculiar, as if cing Xu Fu on an equal footing with himself.


    Everyone thought Nie Fancheng was being polite because Xu Fu represented the Great Qin Heavenly Court. But Zhong Shan knew that a heavenly emperor would not lower himself because of a foreign envoy, especially when they had only just met.


    This could only mean that Xu Fu himself had the qualifications to be taken seriously by Nie Fancheng.


    "Haha, Emperor of Great Li, are you intending to break the agreement among the heavenly courts and holynds?" Xu Fu said calmly.


    "The agreement of the world, I naturally remember. I will not vite my own words. Do you know what this is?" Nie Fancheng said patiently.


    Then, three items suddenly appeared in front of Nie Fancheng.


    A purple-gold gourd, a small vase that seemed carved from white jade, and a ntain fan.


    "The Purple Gold Gourd? The White Jade Purity Vase? The Five Fires Seven Birds Fan?" Xu Fu eximed.


    Nie Fancheng was not afraid that Xu Fu would take them. With a flick of his hand, the three treasures fell in front of Xu Fu. Not far away, Bao''er''s expression changed repeatedly.


    Xu Fu quickly examined them.


    "They truly are the Purple Gold Gourd, the White Jade Purity Vase, and the Five Fires Seven Birds Fan!" Xu Fu said with a deep breath and a strange expression.


    "That''s right. ording to the agreement of the world, no holynd or heavenly court may forcibly take the Eternal Sacred tform. The Eternal Sacred tform belongs to the Eternal Alchemy Sect. Whoever possesses the treasures of the Eternal Alchemy Sect may im the tform for a thousand years and then leave the treasures for the next Alchemy Sage. Now, these three treasures are indeed the former treasures of the Eternal Alchemy Sect. Do you think I should take the Eternal Sacred tform?" Nie Fancheng said with a hint of pride.


    Xu Fu''s expression turned peculiar as he looked at Nie Fancheng, as if he had something to say but was holding it back.


    The Eternal Sacred tform belonged to the Eternal Alchemy Sect?


    Xu Fu turned to Bao''er. Did this mean that Bao''er, as the master of the Eternal Alchemy Sect, had a say?


    Xu Fu looked at Bao''er, who frowned. She seemed hesitant to acknowledge her identity as the sect master, as if she had some reservations.


    Zhong Shan squeezed Bao''er''s hand and said, "I want the Eternal Sacred tform."


    "I want it?" Zhong Shan''s words dispelled Bao''er''s hesitation. If the master wanted it, then they had to fight for it, even if it meant revealing her identity as the master of the Eternal Alchemy Sect.


    Zhong Shan wanted it because he had seen the fusion of fortune and merit on the Eternal Sacred tform, a miraculousbination he was unwilling to relinquish.


    Bao''er stepped forward, about to say something.


    "What''s the matter, Xu Fu? Do you have any objections?" Nie Fancheng asked indifferently.


    Xu Fu was about to speak when suddenly, in the sky where Nie Fancheng and the old eunuch were, two figures appeared.


    "Boom! Boom!"


    Two colossal explosions erupted around Nie Fancheng, causing a tremendous shockwave. The tsunami-like force of the shockwave severely injured many of the weaker cultivators below.


    "Ah!"


    Countless people spat blood from the force of the shockwave.


    The powerful shockwave radiated downward, destroying all the buildings below. The ground shook violently, throwing uprge chunks of rock. Even the Eternal Sacred tform was lifted from the ground.


    "Bastard!"


    From the center of the powerful shockwave came the faint sound of Nie Fancheng''s angry roar.


    Someone was ambushing Nie Fancheng?


    The moment the powerful shockwave urred, Zhong Shan sensed danger. He quickly grabbed Bao''er and Ling''er and retreated to a safe distance, followed closely by others who formed a protective circle around him.


    An ambush? Someone was ambushing Nie Fancheng? Nie Fancheng wasn''t just a Heavenly Realm cultivator; the old eunuch by his side was also a powerful Heavenly Realm expert. Two people? Who? Which force dared to ambush Nie Fancheng?


    The ripples in the sky caused by the spatial shockwave distorted the view above.


    "Ah!"


    Suddenly, from the western part of Blue me City, the cawing of crows could be heard. Blinding lights appeared in the west, like ten massive suns rising into the sky.


    Ten Golden Crows emerging simultaneously? Ten Golden Crows? The Taishou Heavenly Court?


    Zhong Shan looked up sharply. The ripples in the sky had smoothed out, revealing the scene above.


    It wasn''t just two figures; arge group of people had appeared, surrounding Nie Fancheng. The old eunuch by Nie Fancheng''s side had vanished without a trace.

 Chapter 588: The Ten Suns in the Sky

    <h4>Chapter 588: The Ten Suns in the Sky</h4>


    Arge group of people surrounded Nie Fancheng in the center, and the old eunuch was nowhere to be seen. No, the eunuch hadn''t disappeared; he had suddenly appeared in the western part of Blue me City, now surrounded by the Ten Golden Crows.


    The Ten Golden Crows radiated golden light like ten suns standing in the sky. The intense heat immediately burned down countless buildings in the west of the city. Countless citizens fled in panic, but there was no escape. Terrifying mes and true sr fire engulfed everything, burning the world to ashes.


    The old eunuch was trapped in the center of the Ten Golden Crows.


    Zhong Shan saw that below the Ten Golden Crows were ten figures in golden robes. Among them were Zhong Shan''s old acquaintances, Prince Lietian and Prince Chongtian. Were these the ten princes of the Taishou Heavenly Court?


    The ten princes each upied a different position, forming strange hand seals.


    The Ten Golden Crows soared into the sky, flying in a bizarre pattern that left the onlookers in awe.


    It seemed to offer a way for the eunuch to escape, but at the same time, it was a trap with no way out, surrounded by boundless sr fire.


    "Ten Suns Sky Formation!"


    The ten princes shouted in unison.


    The Ten Suns Sky Formation? The powerful formation capable of trapping a Heavenly Realm expert?


    Suddenly, the entire west turned into a blinding light. Endless mes descended from the sky. The Ten Golden Crows, like ten suns, spun rapidly, burning everything around them. There was no time to escape.


    For a moment, screams and cries echoed from the west. The endless cries of the citizens were drowned in the sea of fire in an instant.


    The area waspletely engulfed in mes, reaching the heavens and burning everything. Anything nearby was reduced to ashes. Even though Zhong Shan and the others were far away, they could still feel the scorching heat.


    The sky over Blue me City turned red with the endless mes.


    With the Ten Suns Sky Formation activated, nothing could be seen within the fire. The Ten Golden Crows were hidden within the mes, their forms invisible.


    The ten suns vanished into the mes.


    From within the fire zone, fireballs continuously erupted, flying in all directions. Though the fire was confined to the west of Blue me City, numerous powerful fireballs shot toward the east, south, north, and even beyond the city.


    The entire Blue me City echoed with endless cries, engulfed in towering mes. Fireballs covered the entire city.


    The Ten Suns Sky Formation shouldn''t have this effect of scattering fireballs. This could only mean that the old eunuch inside was using his formidable power to break the formation.


    Formidable and invincible, the old eunuch was trapped within the monstrous Ten Suns Sky Formation.


    The Ten Suns Sky Formation was incredibly powerful.


    In the distance, the Ten Golden Crows and the ten princes simultaneously set up the Ten Suns Sky Formation, trapping a powerful Heavenly Realm expert inside!


    Meanwhile, in the sky above the pce, Nie Fancheng was also surrounded by another group of people.


    To be precise, he was surrounded by three individuals.


    One of them, dressed in a golden dragon robe and wearing a t-topped crown, stared directly at Nie Fancheng. His attire was simr to Nie Fancheng''s, with a slightly raised forehead and eyes that shone like lightning. His face was imposing and dominant.


    This was the Holy Emperor of the Taishou Heavenly Court, Lu Guitian!


    Although his name might sound somewhat awkward, no one dared to mock him. The Holy Emperor of Taishou, Lu Guitian!


    The second person, Zhong Shan recognized. A fierce man carrying a giant gourd, a formidable figure Zhong Shan couldn''t match��Longevity Realm Master, Shen Ya Daojun.


    The third person appeared to hold a high status, with a golden, radiant appearance, even his skin glimmering gold. A faint heat emanated from him. This man could only be the supreme leader of the Crow n, Wuhuan!


    Surrounding Nie Fancheng were some of the most powerful figures in Shenzhou, all top-tier Heavenly Realm experts. A Holy Emperor, a Holy Land Master, and a n Supreme Leader.


    These were all prominent figures, each one alone was a force to be reckoned with. Yet now, three such powerhouses appeared together, seemingly forming an alliance to confront Nie Fancheng.


    The group of people in the sky were clearly subordinates of the Taishou Heavenly Court.


    Among them, Zhong Shan noticed another familiar face��Monk Sekong?


    Monk Sekong, still wearing his monk robes, stood out among the group.


    "Esteemed alchemists, do not be afraid. Wee with the sincerity of the Taishou Heavenly Court!" Monk Sekong suddenly said with a smile.


    The sudden turn of events left everyone uneasy. The peaceful Ten Thousand Pills Conference had been disrupted by this group of unparalleled powerhouses.


    But there was nothing they could do. This group was too powerful.


    The Ten Golden Crows, the Ten Golden Crow Princes, twenty ultimate Heavenly Realm experts. Just these alone could have swept through the Ten Thousand Pills Conference without opposition.


    But now, there was the Holy Emperor of Great Li, Nie Fancheng! The Holy Emperor of Taishou, Lu Guitian! Longevity Realm Master, Shen Ya Daojun! Crow n Supreme, Wuhuan! And that unknown old eunuch!


    Five Heavenly Realm experts! The strongest beings in existence. Even just one of these individuals could shake the world with a stomp of their foot. Now, five of them had gathered in one ce!


    Five Heavenly Realm experts? Such a scene had only been seen during the legendary times of ancient gods creating the world!


    Monk Sekong''s sudden outburst interrupted everyone''s thoughts.


    "The Taishou Heavenly Court sincerely invites you to discuss the alchemical arts with us!" Monk Sekong said with a smile.


    The meaning was clear: as top-tier alchemists of Shenzhou, the Taishou Heavenly Court needed you. None of you will leave;e with us obediently!


    But these alchemists were not ones to be easily intimidated. Most had devoted their lives to alchemy, living in harmony with their craft, indifferent to worldly matters. Master-level figures were not the type to be coerced by a few threats from Monk Sekong.


    "Humph! Little monk, don''t think you can force me to work for you! Not unless I''m dead!" an alchemist angrily retorted.


    "Hehe, no need to get angry, old alchemist. Everything will be fine once we reach the Taishou Heavenly Court. You can curse me all you want, but no one is leaving today!" Monk Sekong said with a smile.


    Above, the four Heavenly Realm experts faced off. Even the Holy Emperor of Taishou didn''t interrupt Monk Sekong''s words.


    This time, the Taishou Heavenly Court had deployed a significant force, including the emperor, the supreme leader, the Ten Golden Crow Princes, and many other top experts, determined to capture everyone.


    Monk Sekong spoke without restraint, his many powerful allies watching over the entire conference. They couldn''t let anyone escape. With such backing, Monk Sekong became even more audacious.


    Below, no one spoke. Even the Blue me Emperor looked pale, his hands trembling slightly, feeling fear.


    "Enough! This is the Blue me Empire, not your Taishou Heavenly Court! Show some respect!" Alchemy Sage Lan Longhu coldly rebuked.


    Though knowing he couldn''t match them, Lan Longhu, as a member of the Blue me Empire, couldn''t stand by while these intruders ran rampant. The Blue me Emperor might not dare, but Lan Longhu would!


    "Oh?" Monk Sekong immediately turned his head.


    He saw the Blue me Emperor standing next to Alchemy Sage Lan Longhu. Though the Blue me Emperor was angry, he didn''t dare to speak out. Monk Sekong disyed a peculiar smile as he looked at Lan Longhu, whose eyebrows were raised in fury.


    Monk Sekong, disying remarkable self-control, didn''t get angry. Instead, he smirked. He knew it was impossible to subdue these people immediately, but...


    Just as Monk Sekong was smirking, his expression suddenly froze. The smile on his face twisted into an awkward grimace.


    He had spotted that person��the one who haunted his thoughts, the one he feared most: Zhong Shan!


    Zhong Shan was staring directly at him, eyes zing. Monk Sekong shuddered.


    If there was anyone Monk Sekong feared most, it wasn''t Prince Lietian or the other Heavenly Realm experts; it was Zhong Shan. Despite only having shed with Zhong Shan once, Monk Sekong had stayed out of subsequent events. Yet, he remained deeply afraid of Zhong Shan, this enigmatic and fearsome figure.


    An overwhelming fear and sense of doom gripped him instinctively. Though his cultivation was low, Monk Sekong was highly valued by Prince Lietian and held some sway within the Taishou Heavenly Court. Otherwise, he wouldn''t be handling this situation. His acute sensitivity, not of the five senses but of a more ethereal, spiritual nature, set him apart.


    Zhong Shan was utterly terrifying! He had to stay far away from him!


    Seeing Zhong Shan again, Monk Sekong shivered and wanted to flee.


    His first thought was to get away immediately. But could he leave now?


    Monk Sekong nced around. The emperor, the supreme leader, the Daoist Lord, the Ten Golden Crow Princes, and other powerful Taishou Heavenly Court allies were all present. Why should he be afraid of Zhong Shan now?


    Gaining some courage from the surrounding powerhouses, Monk Sekong looked at Zhong Shan again. He shivered once more. No, regardless of the circumstances, his life was paramount. He couldn''t risk it, no matter what.


    Resolving this, Monk Sekong''s face twisted several times before he turned to a person beside him.


    "Grandmaster, I suddenly have a stomachache. I need to leave. I''m sorry, but you''ll have to handle this. My apologies!" Monk Sekong said quickly and then turned to run.


    In an instant, he was gone. Was it really a stomachache?


    A stomachache? The group that hade with Monk Sekong all had ck lines of frustration on their foreheads.


    Below, the alchemists were also exasperated, each one with a deep scowl on their face.

 Chapter 589: The Origin of the Chaotic Era

    <h4>Chapter 589: The Origin of the Chaotic Era</h4>


    Monk Sekong, ignoring everyone''s reactions, turned and ran. His escape was too bizarre, too carefree, leaving both the oppressors and the oppressed with darkened faces. They stared nkly at the fleeing monk for a moment.


    Zhong Shan only nced at Monk Sekong before turning his gaze to the higher sky, where four Heavenly Realm powerhouses were present.


    The four Heavenly Realm experts were beyond his reach.


    Nie Fancheng, though he had never disyed his power, was someone capable of founding a heavenly court like the ancient God Tong. He was an ally recognized by God Tong himself, cooperating to attack the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Nie Fancheng''s strength was undeniable, at least top-tier among Heavenly Realm experts. Otherwise, how could that old eunuch, also a Heavenly Realm expert, willingly serve him?


    The other three needed no exnation: an emperor, a supreme leader of a n, and a holynd master! Such figures could only reach these heights by being unparalleled in their prowess.


    Three of the world''s most powerful figures were besieging Nie Fancheng.


    Moreover, it was clear that the Taishou Heavenly Court had mobilized so many people, even inviting the Longevity Realm Master. There must be a grand conspiracy behind this.


    They hade specifically to ambush Nie Fancheng?


    It had to be. Otherwise, why mobilize such overwhelming forces for the Eternal Sacred tform?


    Ambushing Nie Fancheng? How did they know he would return? How did they anticipate ambushing him here?


    These questions were secondary. The primary concern was what would happen after the ambush.


    If they seeded in ambushing Nie Fancheng, what would that mean?


    The Great Li Heavenly Court would copse! Various dynasties would converge, waging war for the Great Li''s territory. Although Nie Fancheng had several princes, could theypare to God Tong''s princes?


    It wasn''t that theycked strength or courage, but they didn''t have the same pedigree. The greatest advantage of the princes of the former Da Luo Heavenly Court was their remarkable father, God Tong. God Tong wasn''t just any emperor; he was a groundbreaking figure.


    His prestige alone was enough to make other empires hesitant to target his princes. Many powerful figures had also received primordial purple energy from God Tong, indebting them to him and deterring them from causing trouble for his sons.


    But what about Nie Fancheng? He was merely an emperor. If he died, the Great Li Heavenly Court would be engulfed in mes of war, chaos spreading throughout the northern part of Shenzhou. Major forces would redivide the territory.


    That wasn''t the most important part. The crucial point was that Zhong Shan thought deeper.


    Why did the Taishou Heavenly Court want to ambush Nie Fancheng? One was in the west, the other in the north of Shenzhou. They typically had no interactions. Why ambush Nie Fancheng?


    Moreover, half a year ago, the Taishou Heavenly Court had destroyed the Western Empire of the Yan Hong Dynasty and then conquered it. They must have mobilized forces in other areas as well.


    The Taishou Heavenly Court was preparing for a massive conquest of the world?


    Eliminate Nie Fancheng, then plot to dominate the world?


    Realizing this, Zhong Shan was shocked.


    Shenzhou was about to descend into chaos! The once peaceful Shenzhou would be engulfed in smoke and mes. A battlefield covering at least half of Shenzhou was about to unfold. Half of Shenzhou? Would the remaining half remain tranquil? It would inevitably be affected. This meant that all of Shenzhou was about to plunge into turmoil.


    A chaotic era was about to begin!


    The assassination of Nie Fancheng would be the spark, igniting a widespread chaos throughout Shenzhou!


    A chaotic era? Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. His keen political insight allowed him to foresee theing turmoil. Among those present, apart from those already in the know from the Taishou Heavenly Court, only a handful could match Zhong Shan''s political acumen.


    Understanding all this, Zhong Shan focused even more intently on the four Heavenly Realm experts in the sky, his eyes fixed unwaveringly on Nie Fancheng and the others.


    Suddenly, Nie Fancheng burst intoughter, hisughter echoing through the sky. It was both joyous and filled with a strange sense of unresolved tension.


    "The Purple Gold Gourd? The White Jade Purity Vase? The Five Fires Seven Birds Fan? Hahaha, Lu Guitian, you really have a knack for scheming. So this is your n," Nie Fancheng''sughter ceased abruptly, reced by a cold tone.


    "No matter how clumsy the n, you still came, didn''t you?" Lu Guitian replied confidently.


    "Do you think you can stop us with just your forces?" Nie Fancheng said coldly.


    "Not you all, just you. Your subordinate is already contained by the Ten Suns Sky Formation. As for you, with the three of us here, do you think you can escape? This isn''t your Great Li Heavenly Court. Wu Jiutian and your shadow subordinate aren''t here. Let me see how you''ve refined the ''Map of Mountains and Rivers''!" Lu Guitian said sternly.


    Hearing Lu Guitian''s words, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. From Emperor Xuan Zha''s information, Zhong Shan knew the names of the so-called Ten Great Treasures of History, and the Map of Mountains and Rivers was one of them. Nie Fancheng had indeed refined one of these immensely powerful artifacts.


    What surprised Zhong Shan even more was that these legendary treasures, such as the Immortal ying Flying de, the Heaven-Opening Axe, the Taiji Diagram, and the Map of Mountains and Rivers, were also familiar to him from Earth''s mythology. Though his memories were somewhat vague, the names of these treasures were almost identical.


    With a wave of his hand, Nie Fancheng produced a scroll. The scroll emitted a green me-like aura, exuding a powerful presence that spread in all directions.


    This aura was peculiar, as if it had a soul-shaking effect, causing a slight tremor in the souls of those far away.


    "This is the Map of Mountains and Rivers? Truly worthy of being one of the Ten Great Treasures of History. Even unopened, it exudes such power!" Lu Guitian remarked with a hint of admiration.


    Nie Fancheng didn''t hurry to unfold the map but nced at the three before him, a faint smile on his lips.


    "Do you three really think you can keep me here?" Nie Fancheng said with a smile.


    "Three of us can''t keep one of you?" Lu Guitian replied with a confident smile.


    "One? Who said I am alone?" Nie Fancheng suddenlyughed.


    "Hahaha, are you expecting your old eunuch toe to your aid?" Lu Guitian sneered.


    "I wasn''t referring to him!" Nie Fancheng said coldly.


    "Not him? Then who?"


    "Don''t listen to him, he''s stalling for time!" crowed Wuhuan, the Crow n Supreme.


    "Do I need to stoop as low as you?" Nie Fancheng said, his eyes turning cold.


    "Xu Fu, are you just going to stand by and watch?" Nie Fancheng suddenly shouted downward.


    Xu Fu? Hearing Nie Fancheng suddenly call out a name, the three Heavenly Realm experts all raised their eyebrows. They didn''t doubt Nie Fancheng, knowing he wasn''t one to bluff.


    Xu Fu? Following Nie Fancheng''s gaze, the three turned their eyes downward.


    On the Eternal Sacred tform, Xu Fu stood in a purple robe, his clothes fluttering in the wind, holding the White Jade Purity Vase, the Purple Gold Gourd, and the Five Fires Seven Birds Fan. He looked up at the sky, standing proudly like a pine tree in the snow. Behind him, Bai Ye waspletely overshadowed by Xu Fu''s imposing presence.


    Xu Fu?


    The three powerhouses simultaneously extended their spiritual senses toward Xu Fu. To their surprise, they found that Xu Fu''s aura was faint and elusive, difficult to discern.


    Unable to discern his true nature, they realized that only someone at the Heavenly Realm could elude the perception of the three great powerhouses. Another Heavenly Realm expert?


    The situation turned extremely strange. Xu Fu, the alchemist of Great Qin?


    At the same time, everyone understood why the previously dominant Nie Fancheng had restrained his aggressiveness upon meeting Xu Fu and instead presented the three treasures, speaking reasonably to im the Eternal Sacred tform.


    It was because Xu Fu possessed the strength thatmanded Nie Fancheng''s respect.


    Xu Fu had been unknown before the Ten Thousand Pills Conference, even among the Heavenly Realm experts. Now, this enigmatic figure revealed himself to be at the Heavenly Realm, which struck everyone as bizarre.


    All four powerhouses focused on Xu Fu, who responded with a faint smile.


    "The Holy Emperor of Great Li truly holds me, Xu Fu, in high regard," Xu Fu said with a smile.


    "So, will you help or not?" Nie Fancheng asked sternly.


    The three Heavenly Realm powerhouses��Shen Ya Daojun, Lu Guitian, and Wuhuan��felt a sinking feeling as they recognized Xu Fu''s cultivation. This unexpected variable made the situation precarious.


    "Xu Fu? Alchemist of Great Qin? Do you intend to intervene in the affairs of Taishou and Great Li?" Lu Guitian asked solemnly.


    "Intervene in the affairs of two courts? There are only three heavenly courts in the world. Why should I stand by and watch?" Xu Fu said with a serious expression.


    As soon as Xu Fu spoke, everyone felt a tightening in their hearts. Was Xu Fu definitely going to intervene? Nie Fancheng, however, showed a faint smile.


    "But, Holy Emperor of Great Li, if I help you escape, wouldn''t that just rece your predicament with mine?" Xu Fu looked at Nie Fancheng.


    If Nie Fancheng escaped, there was a high chance that the three powerhouses would turn their fury on Xu Fu, leaving him to face them alone.


    "What do you want, then?" Nie Fancheng asked sternly.


    "Back in the day, during the siege of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, the alliance of the three heavenly courts agreed to mutual assistance. Given the situation today, I naturally adhere to the emperor''s agreement. But I won''t risk my life for yours. I''ll help you hold off Wuhuan, but I won''t deal with the other two. Also, during the time I hold him off, you can''t escape. If you flee, I''ll leave as well. If they catch you again, it''s none of my concern," Xu Fu said casually.


    "Hahaha, good. The Holy Emperor of Great Qin indeed keeps his word. With your assurance, that''s enough. Soon, he will break through, and you won''t have to trouble yourself," Nie Fanchengughed heartily.


    Xu Fu nodded slightly.


    "You think you can hold me off?" Wuhuan sneered.


    Every Heavenly Realm expert had their pride. Despite being of the same realm, none considered themselves inferior to the others. Wuhuan, as the supreme leader of the Crow n, had his own pride. The recent conversation between Nie Fancheng and Xu Fu, treating him like a meremodity to be handed over, infuriated Wuhuan. Especially since his opponent was an unknown Heavenly Realm expert, Wuhuan naturally believed he was stronger than Xu Fu.

 Chapter 590: Clash of the Pinnacle Powerhouses

    <h4>Chapter 590: sh of the Pinnacle Powerhouses</h4>


    "Crow n Supreme? If you don''t believe it, you can try me!" Xu Fu said arrogantly.


    The two stared each other down.


    "Boom!"


    Between the two, in the open air, it was as if a massive stone had been thrown into a mirrored pond, creating a gigantic ripple in space that spread in all directions.


    Everything in its path was obliterated. The already half-destroyed pce suffered another catastrophic blow. Countless pce maids and eunuchs, unable to escape in time, were swept away by the spatial ripple.


    The alchemists, aware of the danger, quickly retreated and deployed their various treasures. Though they might not be the strongest inbat, they were exceedingly wealthy. As top-tier alchemists, the value of a single pill they refined was equivalent to half a year''s worth of mining for others.


    Their equipment was the mostprehensive, and they swiftly set up protective arrays to shield everyone.


    That powerful spatial collision was merely a preliminary test between two Heavenly Realm experts.


    No wonder they were regarded as the strongest in the world. Their power was immense!


    "Boom!"


    In the sky above everyone, a deep, resonant bell sound suddenly echoed, filling the heavens and earth. Everyone in Blue me City felt a moment of disorientation.


    The powerful vibration left only a few able to maintain theirposure. They quickly looked up, their gazes passing the four powerhouses and focusing on the highest point in the sky.


    There, the sky was split into two colors: one gold and one ck, an eerie sight resembling two clouds. But Zhong Shan knew it wasn''t clouds��it was "Heaven," the domain only a Heavenly Realm expert could possess!


    The golden sky belonged to Wuhuan, and the ck sky belonged to Xu Fu. The two skies hadn''t fully expanded; they reached their peak for an instant and then gradually faded away.


    The two skies slowly vanished, dissolving bit by bit. The source of this phenomenon was arge, ancient, yellow bell at the center of the two skies!


    The ancient bell exuded a soul-crushing pressure that reached deep into everyone''s soul. The powerful chime hade from it, and near the bell floated the ''Star Pill'' Xu Fu had refined earlier, now erged to resemble a star hanging in the sky.


    Wuhuan''s treasure was the Soul-Draining Bell!


    Everyone felt a tightening in their hearts. Wuhuan''s Soul-Draining Bell, although not listed among the Ten Great Treasures of History, was an unrivaled treasure he had been refining for thousands of years��a supreme ninth-grade treasure with a fearsome reputation.


    Yet this powerful treasure, when it collided with the Star Pill, was matched evenly. Perhaps the oue had been decided, but it was not apparent to the lower-level cultivators below.


    Soul-Draining Bell! Star Pill?


    Who knew that a pill could be so powerful! All the alchemists were excited, their dedication to the alchemical path growing stronger.


    The powerful collision had resulted in a draw on the surface.


    In the sky, Wuhuan''s eyes turned cold, while Xu Fu disyed an inscrutable smile.


    Lu Guitian cast a cold nce at Xu Fu below. Was Xu Fu really that strong?


    Shen Ya Daojun, on the other hand, observed Xu Fu with a furrowed brow.


    "Hahaha..." Nie Fanchengughed heartily, feeling relieved.


    With this turn of events, Nie Fancheng was no longer at a severe disadvantage.


    Wuhuan slowly descended from the sky,nding on the Eternal Sacred tform, facing Xu Fu from a distance. Though he didn''t make a move, his face was slightly flushed.


    Xu Fu smiled and said, "This isn''t really my business, but as a member of the Great Qin Heavenly Court, I can''t stand idly by. Apologies, Wuhuan Daoist."


    "How many like you are there in Great Qin?" Wuhuan asked gravely.


    "Me? I''m just a humble alchemist. There are plenty like me," Xu Fu replied with a peculiar smile.


    Plenty? Who would believe that? Did he think Great Qin was a gathering ce for Heavenly Realm experts?


    "Hmph!" Wuhuan snorted angrily.


    "Wuhuan Daoist, truth be told, I don''t wish to fight either. How about this: we stand here, and if you don''t move, I won''t move. I promised Nie Fancheng to help him, and I will keep my word. Since we have no personal grudges, let''s wait and see what happens," Xu Fu said seriously.


    "Hmph!" Wuhuan snorted again, but it seemed like he agreed.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan had been watching the events unfold. Did Wuhuanpromise? The Crow n Supreme and Xu Fu had reached an understanding? This indicated that the earlier sh between the Soul-Draining Bell and the Star Pill wasn''t a draw; the Star Pill had the upper hand.


    Xu Fu had great abilities! Great Qin had deep waters!


    "With Wuhuan out, how long can youst?" Nie Fancheng said, smiling at Shen Ya Daojun and Lu Guitian.


    "Wuhuan is the weakest among us three. Whether he''s here or not makes little difference. Two of us are more than enough to handle you," Shen Ya Daojun said calmly.


    Wuhuan was the weakest? Disposable? That was a harsh statement, and almost everyone frowned. Yet, Wuhuan showed no reaction, as if Shen Ya Daojun''s assessment was entirely urate.


    Wuhuan was the Crow n Supreme, a notorious figure in Shenzhou. Yet, he didn''t refute Shen Ya Daojun''s belittling remarks?


    "Two? Don''t I also have an ally?" Nie Fancheng said.


    "You mean that old eunuch? Hahaha, since he''s already in the formation, how could he escape?" Lu Guitianughed.


    "Oh? What if I told you I have another ally?" Nie Fancheng suddenly smiled.


    "Eh?" Lu Guitian was slightly taken aback.


    Having Xu Fu already disrupted his ns; could there be another Heavenly Realm expert here?


    Lu Guitian quickly scanned everyone below with his spiritual sense, but found no other Heavenly Realm experts. Who else could there be?


    "Ling''er!" Nie Fancheng suddenly called out to Tian Ling''er.


    "Huh?" Tian Ling''er was startled. Surely he didn''t mean for her to pretend to be a Heavenly Realm expert?


    Lu Guitian probed Tian Ling''er and found that she was only in thete Integration stage.


    "Summon the Vermilion Bird!" Nie Fanchengmanded.


    Vermilion Bird? Shen Ya Daojun''s expression tightened.


    "Little Red can''t defeat you. It''s tired!" Tian Ling''er protested.


    Was he sending Little Red to its death? Tian Ling''er would never agree to that.


    "You!" Shen Ya Daojun suddenly red at Tian Ling''er, releasing a powerful aura.


    "Hmph!" Nie Fancheng snorted coldly, swiftly moving to block Shen Ya Daojun and Lu Guitian from Tian Ling''er.


    "You''re fortunate, Nie Fancheng. Are you trying to summon Wu Jiutian?" Shen Ya Daojun said coldly.


    "You know about that?" Nie Fancheng was slightly surprised.


    "Kill that girl, quickly!" Shen Ya Daojunmanded the subordinates of the Taishou Heavenly Court.


    "Yes!" they responded immediately.


    "Scoundrels!" Nie Fancheng''s eyes zed with anger.


    "Lu Guitian, enough dys. Let''s begin. The two of us are enough to keep Nie Fancheng here," Shen Ya Daojun suddenly said.


    At that moment, Shen Ya Daojun opened the mouth of his gourd, and a dazzling light shot out from it.


    "Turn around, precious!"


    With Shen Ya Daojun''smand, Nie Fancheng tensed up. In his hand, the scroll of the Map of Mountains and Rivers abruptly unfolded.


    Instantly, an infinite illusion was created. Everyone suddenly found themselves in a massive valley surrounded by birdsong and fragrant flowers, like a paradise.


    But they could still see each other. The group from the Taishou Heavenly Court quickly rushed towards Zhong Shan.


    "Boom!"


    With a loud crash, the entire illusion shattered. The massive valley retreated rapidly, and everyone returned to the ruins of the Ten Thousand Pills Conference za. However, the scene was now filled with a powerful airflow, blowing in all directions. The ruins became even more dpidated.


    In the sky, the three great powerhouses had ascended to an extreme height. Before Nie Fancheng, a giant painting with mountains, water, and misty clouds appeared, creating the illusion they had just experienced.


    Nie Fancheng''s eyes shed with surprise, and a corner of his dragon robe had been cut off.


    "The Immortal ying Flying de is indeed formidable! No one has ever injured me before," Nie Fancheng said in astonishment.


    It was clear that the Immortal ying Flying de had slightly injured Nie Fancheng, demonstrating its terrifying power.


    "The Map of Mountains and Rivers is also impressive. No one has ever survived my Immortal ying Flying de before. You are the first!" Shen Ya Daojun said coldly.


    As he spoke, the sky suddenly changed. The three supreme powerhouses once again unleashed their ''Heavens,'' initiating a world-shaking battle. Even from a great distance, the overwhelming pressure could be felt, making everyone below feel oppressed.


    At this moment, the subordinates of the Taishou Heavenly Court rushed towards Tian Ling''er.


    Zhong Shan''s figure flickered, blocking their path.


    "Ling''er, summon the Vermilion Bird! Quickly!" Zhong Shan said urgently.


    Just then, one of the closest attackers drew arge saber and swung it towards Zhong Shan with overwhelming force and arrogance.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold, and his brow''s red lotus swirled, releasing energy into his eyes. Using the sixth level of the Hongluan Heavenly Scripture, the Beginning of Breaking Delusion, Zhong Shan quickly drew his ownrge saber, Nightmare.


    As Zhong Shan was about to activate the Heavenly Demon Tempering Body Art, an immensely powerful aura suddenly erupted before him, halting all his actions. This overwhelming aura surged towards the approaching enemy.


    "Ugh!"


    The leading attacker spat blood and was sent flying backward.


    A white-robed figure suddenly appeared before Zhong Shan.

 Chapter 591: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Unexpected Intervention

    <h4>Chapter 591: Zhong Shan��s Unexpected Intervention</h4>


    As the powerful Taishou Heavenly Court experts rushed towards Zhong Shan, a white-robed figure suddenly appeared. Standing firmly before Zhong Shan, the man''s powerful aura erupted.


    It was just his aura��an overwhelming force that caused the rushing expert to spit blood and fly backward. The same happened to the surrounding experts; with just his presence, he held an unassable position without even lifting a finger.


    He was too strong!


    The powerful aura forced the Taishou Heavenly Court experts to retreat, spitting blood and looking utterly bewildered.


    The white-robed man who had suddenly appeared in front of Zhong Shan didn''t even nce at these underlings. Instead, he looked up at the sky.


    After being knocked back, the experts were filled with shock and dared not approach again.


    He was too strong! The sudden figure was too domineering! He defeated them with just his aura? Seeing this solitary white-robed figure, a sense of submission welled up in their hearts.


    The neer was none other than the Wolf n Supreme, Di Xuanha.


    Although Di Xuanha had arrived a bitte, he was still timely enough to prevent Zhong Shan''s secrets from being exposed to everyone.


    Di Xuanha''s sudden appearance surprised everyone.


    In the sky, Zhong Shan and the others couldn''t see anything because the high altitude was extremely distorted. Spatial ripples appeared one after another, like waves in a stormy sea, obscuring the view of the internal battle.


    Although the crowd couldn''t see, three people could: Xu Fu, Wuhuan, and Di Xuanha. These three supreme powerhouses saw everything clearly.


    Di Xuanha''s appearance immediately drew everyone''s attention, causing a stir.


    Wuhuan looked at Di Xuanha in astonishment, wondering why he was here instead of in the southeast of Shenzhou or on Tiang Ind.


    Di Xuanha''s arrival added another variable to the Taishou Heavenly Court''s seemingly wless n,plicating matters further.


    The situation was bing very precarious!


    "What a grand gathering!" Xu Fu said with a smile of surprise.


    In the sky, the intense battle gradually subsided, possibly due to Di Xuanha''s sudden appearance.


    The three supreme powerhouses once again stood in a triangr formation.


    Nie Fancheng''s dragon robe was somewhat tattered, as were the clothes of the other two, though not as severely. Nie Fancheng''s body shook, and his torn robe instantly restored itself, as did the garments of Shen Ya Daojun and Lu Guitian.


    The three of them suddenly looked at Di Xuanha.


    Another Heavenly Realm expert? What day was this? How had the Heavenly Realm experts be somonce?


    Di Xuanha, the Wolf n Supreme, had rarely been seen in action since reaching the Heavenly Realm. His only known battle was with the former Dragon n Supreme.


    The former Dragon n Supreme was incredibly powerful, with a fearsome reputation even among the Heavenly Realm experts. He had once single-handedly killed another renowned demon n supreme. Yet this fierce Dragon n Supreme had been forced out of this world by Di Xuanha just a few thousand years after Di Xuanha had broken through to the Heavenly Realm.


    This act cemented Di Xuanha''s reputation as a supreme powerhouse.


    No one underestimated Di Xuanha. Though he kept a low profile, this only made him seem even more unfathomable.


    Di Xuanha wouldn''te without reason. Why was he here? What side would he take?


    If he sided with the Taishou Heavenly Court, Nie Fancheng was doomed today. But what if he sided with Nie Fancheng?


    The three powerhouses gradually ceased theirbat. After all, focusing on a fight made it difficult to defend against a sneak attack, especially from someone as formidable as Di Xuanha. If Di Xuanha ambushed them during their battle, it would surely lead to a one-sided defeat.


    At this moment, Tian Ling''er also summoned the Vermilion Bird.


    The Vermilion Bird appeared tired. Upon arrival, it curiously surveyed its surroundings before spotting Nie Fancheng and the others in the sky. Its eyes shed with an eerie red light.


    Nie Fancheng smiled with relief.


    The Vermilion Bird''s appearance meant that Wu Jiutian was aware of the situation.


    Only Nie Fancheng knew the intricate rtionship between the Vermilion Bird and Wu Jiutian. It was no secret that Shen Ya Daojun seemed to know this too.


    But it didn''t matter. As long as the Vermilion Bird saw him, it would convey the message to Wu Jiutian because they were essentially one entity, albeit in a very peculiar manner.


    "How much longer can you hold me off?" Nie Fancheng asked Lu Guitian with a sardonic smile.


    "Hmph!" Lu Guitian snorted coldly.


    "Di Xuanha, why are you here?" Shen Ya Daojun asked sternly.


    Shen Ya Daojun''s tonecked arrogance, for he faced Di Xuanha, a supreme powerhouse on par with himself. Shen Ya Daojun had killed Heavenly Realm experts before, but they were not as formidable as Di Xuanha. Di Xuanha had forced the previous Dragon n Supreme to retreat several thousand years ago, cementing his fearsome reputation.


    "I''m just here to pick up a few people. Carry on," Di Xuanha said.


    Carry on? Who dared to continue fighting, exposing their backs to Di Xuanha? His unclear motives and allegiances made the situation precarious.


    The three powerhouses in the sky were filled with uncertainty. What was supposed to be a straightforward ambush had be increasinglyplicated. First, Xu Fu''s unexpected appearance took down Wuhuan. Now, Di Xuanha had arrived, and there was a possibility that Wu Jiutian might also show up. No one knew Wu Jiutian''s whereabouts��he could be close or far, possibly days away.


    Was Nie Fancheng truly destined to survive today?


    "Who are you here to pick up?" Lu Guitian asked, frowning.


    In Lu Guitian''s mind, he wished Di Xuanha would leave so he could deal with the matters at hand. He thought, "Just go away!"


    Di Xuanha looked at Zhong Shan and said, "Naturally, the Emperor of Great Zheng!"


    Zhong Shan? Everyone''s attention shifted to Zhong Shan. This ambush had be entangled around him.


    The Heavenly Realm experts dared not act recklessly, all because of Zhong Shan! This seemingly insignificant participant in the Ten Thousand Pills Conference was now central to the situation.


    "Then take the people of Great Zheng and leave!" Lu Guitian said impatiently.


    Di Xuanha looked to Zhong Shan for his decision.


    This scene amazed everyone. Di Xuanha was seeking Zhong Shan''s input? Wasn''t this backward? Di Xuanha, a renowned powerhouse with a fearsome reputation spanning thousands of years, was now awaiting the decision of an Emperor Realm human?


    Shen Ya Daojun narrowed his eyes at Zhong Shan, Lu Guitian frowned at him, Nie Fancheng''s eyes gleamed slightly, Wuhuan maintained a stern face, and Xu Fu watched with great interest.


    As for Di Xuanha, he wasn''t necessarily following Zhong Shan''s orders. The current situation was highly unusual and could potentially affect the entirend of Shenzhou. A misstep here could be detrimental to the Wolf n''s future. The Wolf n was already aligned with Zhong Shan, so naturally, they were on the same side. While Di Xuanha believed his cultivation talent was unmatched, he acknowledged that Zhong Shan had a broader vision regarding world affairs. Zhong Shan''s previous actions had proven his strategic insight.


    Therefore, for the sake of the Wolf n''s enduring legacy, Di Xuanha saw no issue in temporarily following Zhong Shan''s lead. There was no shame in it.


    "We can''t leave now!" Zhong Shan said immediately.


    "Eh?" The Heavenly Realm experts were slightly taken aback. Why would Zhong Shan, amidst a gathering of such powerful beings, want to get involved?


    Yet, they couldn''t deny that with Di Xuanha as an ally, Zhong Shan indeed had the capacity to participate.


    "Oh?" Di Xuanha looked at Zhong Shan, waiting for further exnation.


    Di Xuanha knew what kind of person Zhong Shan was. This "old fox" always acted with utmost caution. Even if he were to intervene, he would undoubtedly find apelling reason to justify his actions, making them appear entirely righteous.


    "This Ten Thousand Pills Conference was about the Eternal Sacred tform. Thepetition isn''t over yet. Leaving without it would be uneptable," Zhong Shan stated.


    Indeed, Zhong Shan''s reason was wless, leaving no room for usations. But this demand also brought the conflict back to its origin. This was Zhong Shan''s brilliance.


    So, how would this be resolved? Zhong Shan''s side undoubtedly had a legitimate im to the tform, having refined an Immortal Pill. But this created a conflict with Xu Fu of Great Qin, who had also refined an Immortal Pill. Neither would back down without a definitive oue.


    Furthermore, Nie Fancheng had introduced a newplication by iming the tform with three treasures, adding anotheryer of conflict. This intertwined with Lu Guitian''s n, who had discreetly allowed Nie Fancheng to obtain the treasures, not caring much about the tform but inadvertently drawing in multiple powerful factions.


    First faction: Zhong Shan and Di Xuanha. Second faction: Xu Fu of Great Qin. Third faction: Nie Fancheng. Fourth faction: Lu Guitian, Wuhuan, and Shen Ya Daojun.


    Zhong Shan''s seemingly simple request suddenly made everyone uneasy. Neither Lu Guitian, Nie Fancheng, Xu Fu, nor Zhong Shan could im the tform without contention.


    The Eternal Sacred tform, a nexus connecting yet dividing these four factions, now furtherplicated the already intricate rtionships.


    "Just take it and leave!" Lu Guitian said coldly.


    "No!" Xu Fu immediately shook his head, affirming theplex nature of the situation.


    The tension among the factions escted as the unresolved status of the Eternal Sacred tform continued to stir confusion and conflict.

 Chapter 592: Cycle of the Deadlock

    <h4>Chapter 592: Cycle of the Deadlock</h4>


    "No!"


    Xu Fu''s refusal made the situation extremely awkward. What had seemed like a clear n became increasingly murky, as if shrouded in a dense fog, leaving Lu Guitian and his allies very displeased. After Zhong Shan raised this difficult issue, it ironically seemed as though he had removed himself from the situation.


    With Zhong Shan unwilling to leave, Di Xuanha naturally stayed as well, and the atmosphere grew even more stifling.


    The tension was so thick that it felt suffocating to the countless alchemists present. The prolonged stalemate wasn''t a viable solution, and the longer it dragged on, the higher the chance that Wu Jiutian would arrive. Perhaps at any moment, Wu Jiutian could suddenly appear, turning this ambush into aplete failure.


    Of course, Nie Fancheng couldn''t escape now either. If he tried to flee, Xu Fu would stop supporting him, leaving him to face three Heavenly Realm experts. Even if they couldn''t defeat him outright, one could monitor Di Xuanha''s movements while the other two focused on Nie Fancheng.


    Thus, Nie Fancheng was stuck, unable to leave. Shen Ya Daojun and his allies couldn''t act due to Di Xuanha''s presence. Di Xuanha stayed because of Zhong Shan, who stayed because of Xu Fu''s attitude, who in turn stayed due to concern for Nie Fancheng''s safety. Nie Fancheng was constrained by Shen Ya Daojun and the others, as well as Xu Fu. And Shen Ya Daojun and his allies were wary of Di Xuanha.


    This created a cyclical deadlock, where everyone was stuck, unable to move. It felt like being trapped in quicksand��having the strength but unable to use it, causing immense frustration.


    After a period of silence, Lu Guitian''s face turned green with anger. What had seemed like a perfect n, wless and seamless, had now be convoluted with one unexpected variable after another. The looming pressure of Wu Jiutian''s potential arrival only added to the tension.


    Lu Guitian and Shen Ya Daojun exchanged a nce, both sensing the esctingplexity of the situation. The delicate bnce they were in could be shattered by any external intervention, leading to chaos.


    Who could break this deadlock?


    Suddenly, Shen Ya Daojun''s lips curled into a smile.


    "Prince Lietian, hasn''t the Ten Suns Sky Formation dealt with the old eunuch yet?" Shen Ya Daojun called out towards the west.


    In the west, within the vast fire domain, the Ten Suns Sky Formation raged intensely, indicating an unprecedented battle within. This formation was exceedingly powerful, capable of trapping even a Heavenly Realm expert.


    Inside the fiery domain, Prince Lietian was squinting at the external situation while dealing with the old eunuch. He had been monitoring everything outside, missing nothing.


    Shen Ya Daojun''s shout made Prince Lietian tense up. While any prince''s name might seem the same to outsiders, Prince Lietian found it strange that Shen Ya Daojun specifically called for him. He and Shen Ya Daojun were not well-acquainted, rarely meeting even among the ten princes.


    Why him? Did Shen Ya Daojun discover something?


    Taking a deep breath, Prince Lietian''s eyes turned cold. With a wave of his sleeve, the fire domain''s mes doubled in size. The raging sr fire expanded explosively, incinerating countless powerful spectators on the western outskirts before they could escape, turning them to ash in an instant.


    The power of the Ten Suns Sky Formation suddenly amplified exponentially. Prince Lietian, now fullymitted to the battle, held nothing back.


    The formation''s increased power exerted unprecedented pressure on the old eunuch trapped inside. For the first time, the old eunuch felt the real threat of death, as if the next moment could be hisst.


    "How could this be? How could a Heavenly Realm expert like me die at the hands of a group of Imperial Realm cultivators?"


    "Roar!"


    With a tremendous roar, the old eunuch activated a secret technique, temporarily boosting his strength. The power of a Heavenly Realm expert using a secret technique was truly terrifying.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The earth-shaking explosions rattled everyone to their core. The old eunuch''s formidable power transformed fromunching individual fireballs to creating massive curtains of me, like waterfalls of fire cascading in all directions.


    Beyond this, everything became unclear as the western sky trembled and blurred. All that was visible was the overwhelming fire.


    "Essence of Fire, perish!"


    From within the mes, Prince Lietian''s voice rang out.


    "Ah!"


    The old eunuch''s roar of despair echoed with bitterness, rage, and hopelessness, his cry reverberating across the entire Blue me City.


    "Boom!"


    The Ten Suns Sky Formation exploded, scattering mes everywhere, causing another wave of destruction. This day would be remembered as a day of disaster for Blue me City and a day of humiliation for the Blue me Empire.


    As the mes dissipated, they revealed the powerful figures within.


    Ten proud, golden-robed men showed faint expressions of excitement. The ten princes of Taishou were naturally thrilled. Killing a Heavenly Realm expert with Imperial Realm power was a feat worthy of pride.


    High above, ten massive suns hovered, each containing a three-legged golden crow. These crows, with their enormous wings, flew towards the pce.


    In the ws of one golden crow was the charred corpse of the old eunuch.


    Dead?


    The alchemists in the za swallowed hard. A Heavenly Realm expert, dead?


    Nie Fancheng''s eyes reddened as he red at the golden crow''s ws, seething with fury. An icy chill emanated from him.


    As the ten golden crows approached, Nie Fanchengunched an attack, only to be intercepted by Shen Ya Daojun and Lu Guitian.


    "Boom!"


    Thebined efforts of the two Heavenly Realm experts neutralized most of the energy. The golden crow remained unharmed, but the corpse of the old eunuch was dropped.


    Nie Fancheng caught the body, his eyes filled with boundless hatred.


    "Now it''s your turn," Lu Guitian said coldly, staring at Nie Fancheng.


    The Ten Suns Sky Formation had proven capable of killing a Heavenly Realm expert. Even if it couldn''t handle Di Xuanha, it could certainly keep him at bay, preventing him fromunching any sneak attacks.


    "All of you, guard against him with all your might. Lu Guitian and I will kill Nie Fancheng!" Shen Ya Daojun shouted with excitement.


    Shen Ya Daojun''s intention was clear: he wanted the ten Golden Crow Princes to keep an eye on Di Xuanha while he and Lu Guitian focused on killing Nie Fancheng. Although the princes hadn''t seen Di Xuanha before, Prince Lietian surely had, otherwise, Shen Ya Daojun wouldn''t have mentioned him specifically.


    "Yes!" the ten princes responded in unison.


    "Yes!" echoed the ten Golden Crows.


    "Hahaha, Zhong Shan, today you are dead for sure!" Prince Chongtian eximed, his eyes sweeping over everyone until theynded on Zhong Shan, standing next to the Blue me Emperor.


    At this moment, Prince Chongtian couldn''t contain his excitement. Last time, he had nearly lost his life to Zhong Shan; this time, he was determined to make sure Zhong Shan couldn''t escape. Emperor Realm? Just an Emperor Realm? With his ten brothers and ten Golden Crows, Zhong Shan was doomed.


    Prince Chongtian''s arrogant threat caused Shen Ya Daojun and Lu Guitian to stagger in mid-air, nearly falling. The determination to kill Nie Fancheng was abruptly interrupted.


    Why? Because of Di Xuanha. Since Di Xuanha remained neutral, the Golden Crow Princes only needed to guard against him without engaging inbat. Once Nie Fancheng was killed, they could then deal with Di Xuanha.


    But now, with Prince Chongtian''s antagonism towards Zhong Shan, things changed.


    Di Xuanha was clearly aligned with Zhong Shan. By provoking Zhong Shan, Prince Chongtian was effectively provoking Di Xuanha, pushing him into a decidedly hostile stance. Neutral Di Xuanha was already a significant deterrent; if he turned hostile, the situation would worsen dramatically.


    "Chongtian, what grudge do you have with Zhong Shan?" Lu Guitian asked, exasperated.


    Today was truly frustrating. What had started as a perfect ambush had devolved into a series ofplications.


    "A blood feud! A grudge that can never be reconciled!" Prince Chongtian said coldly.


    Even now, Prince Chongtian hadn''t noticed the strange reactions of those around him. His focus remained fixed on Zhong Shan.


    A blood feud? An irreconcble grudge?


    This perfect ambush had be a farce. With Di Xuanha involved, even if they still had the upper hand, it would take a long time to resolve. By then, if Wu Jiutian arrived, they would have no chance of victory.


    "Hahahahaha!"


    Nie Fanchengughed heartily, hisughter filled with excitement, mockery, and sorrow. Excitement because he was now certain he wouldn''t die, mockery at the Taishou Heavenly Court''s efforts turning into nothing, and sorrow for the old eunuch in his arms, apanion of thousands of years, who died because of his own greed.

 Chapter 593: Return to Life

    <h4>Chapter 593: Return to Life</h4>


    Nie Fancheng''s abruptughter cast a shadow over Shen Ya Daojun and Lu Guitian''s hearts, filling them with frustration. The perfect n, meticulously crafted using the grand spectacle of the Ten Thousand Pills Conference, seemed wless. They had used numerous means to lure Nie Fancheng here and deployed almost all of the Taishou Heavenly Court''s powerful forces. Typically, this would have ensured Nie Fancheng''s capture��three Heavenly Realm experts against one left no room for doubt.


    But now, this impable n had unraveled into chaos, culminating in failure at the Ten Thousand Pills Conference.


    Despite theyers of schemes and encirclements, Nie Fancheng still managed to walk away unscathed. Was he truly destined not to die today?


    The Heavenly Realm experts didn''t make another move. Instead, they reflected on the entire ordeal, trying to identify where it had all gone wrong.


    Xu Fu was a minor factor; his presence had been ounted for in the ns to ambush Nie Fancheng. The real issue was Di Xuanha. Yes, Di Xuanha wasn''t targeting them specifically but was just passing through to escort Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan wasn''t causing them trouble either; he merely wanted to im the Eternal Sacred tform, which he arguably deserved.


    So, where did it go wrong?


    Prince Chongtian! Yes, it was him. If not for his ''irreconcble'' hatred for Zhong Shan, everything could have continued as nned. But Prince Chongtian''s vendetta disrupted everything. Once he dered his grudge, it was impossible to proceed.


    If Shen Ya Daojun and the others started fighting, Di Xuanha would inevitably avenge Zhong Shan''s grudge. With Di Xuanha''s decisive nature, he would undoubtedly support Nie Fancheng.


    How could they fight then? If they did, Di Xuanha would certainly intervene. Only by not fighting could they keep Di Xuanha in check.


    Moreover, Wu Jiutian would arrive soon, making any further conflict impossible.


    Lu Guitian felt a surge of anger, ring at Prince Chongtian. Perhaps blinded by hatred, Prince Chongtian hadn''t noticed the dark expressions of Shen Ya Daojun and the others.


    "Sire, continue the fight. We brothers will guard the surroundings. But first, my brothers, avenge me!" Prince Chongtian said, oblivious to the situation.


    Lu Guitian wanted to p Prince Chongtian. "Retreat to the capital!" hemanded, filled with frustration.


    "Eh?" Many of the princes were taken aback.


    But with the emperor''s order, they had to obey.


    "Yes!" the princes responded.


    "Yes!" echoed the golden crows.


    The powerful forces of the Taishou Heavenly Court had no choice but to retreat.


    It was a humiliating retreat. They had arrived with great confidence and left feeling defeated. It wasn''t a matter of being outmatched but being forced to withdraw due to the circumstances. They could have defeated Nie Fancheng, even killed him, yet the situationpelled them to retreat. Anyone would be infuriated by such a turn of events.


    Wuhuan and Shen Ya Daojun understood that the situation was untenable and retreated with the Taishou forces, leaving the devastated Blue me City.


    Before leaving, Lu Guitian, Shen Ya Daojun, Prince Lietian, and two other princes took a long, hard look at Zhong Shan. Although his requests were minor, they realized the significance. If Zhong Shan''s actions were intentional, his cunning was terrifying! This level of strategy was indeed formidable.


    The retreat of the Taishou Heavenly Court was bizarre, leaving the gathered alchemists confused. Had they really juste, set some fires, killed a man, and then left?


    Many of the alchemists, eyes wide with confusion, couldn''t grasp what had happened. Only a few looked towards Di Xuanha, and even fewer realized the influence of Zhong Shan behind him.


    Di Xuanha nced at Zhong Shan, nodding, a hint of relief in his eyes. The Dragon Tiger Alchemist Saint looked at Zhong Shan with gratitude. Not far away, Xu Fu also nced at Zhong Shan, nodding slightly��whether in approval or for some other reason.


    Nie Fancheng, holding the old eunuch''s corpse, floated in the air, his eyes filled with sorrow and overwhelming hatred. With a flicker, he appeared before Zhong Shan, nodded to Di Xuanha, and then looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Thank you!" Nie Fancheng said solemnly.


    As an emperor, despite his disdain formon folk, he was also a person of genuine emotion. Regardless of whether Zhong Shan''s actions were intentional or not, Nie Fancheng was truly grateful for his maneuvering.


    "Great Li Emperor, there''s no need for such courtesy. When you graciously allowed Ling''er to be with me, I was deeply grateful," Zhong Shan responded sincerely.


    Indeed, if Nie Fancheng had forcibly prevented Zhong Shan from being with Tian Ling''er back then, Zhong Shan would have had no way out.


    Nie Fancheng nodded. For an emperor, true feelings were remembered internally; there was no need for excessive pleasantries.


    "Wu Jiutian, you don''t need toe. Head to the Holy Capital of Li Fire and wait for me. Quickly summon all the phoenixes; Great Li is preparing to go to war!" Nie Fancheng coldly instructed the Vermilion Bird.


    The Vermilion Bird, eyes red, made no sign of acknowledgment, but Nie Fancheng knew his message had been conveyed to Wu Jiutian.


    "Great Li Emperor, could we try to heal your subordinate?" Zhong Shan suddenly asked.


    "Heal? Hahaha, he''s beyond saving!" Nie Fancheng replied with a deste smile.


    He waspletely dead, with his soul scattered. There was no way to save him. If there had been, Nie Fancheng would have done it.


    "Let''s give it a try. At worst, we won''t seed," Zhong Shan insisted.


    Nie Fancheng raised an eyebrow, puzzled by Zhong Shan''s words. What did he mean? Nie Fancheng was sure Zhong Shan understood him, but what was he implying? Save? How could apletely dead person be saved?


    Nie Fancheng didn''t understand, but others did.


    The Resurrection Pill?


    Nearly all the alchemists'' eyes lit up. In fact, their eyes turned green, like wolves eyeing prey. They all stared at Nie Fancheng and started crowding around him.


    Seeing the strange reactions of the alchemists, Nie Fancheng was puzzled. What was going on with these people?


    Already irritated by the death of his ''old friend,'' Nie Fancheng felt even more annoyed as the alchemists swarmed around him like he was some kind of spectacle.


    "Hahaha, Great Li Emperor, if you want your subordinate to live again, listen to Zhong Shan," Xu Fu said, flying over from the Eternal Sacred tform.


    Live again?


    Nie Fancheng was taken aback. Was Xu Fu dreaming? How could a dead persone back to life, especially someone whose soul had scattered?


    The alchemists'' eager expressions and Xu Fu''s confident demeanor hinted at something extraordinary. The prospect of using the Resurrection Pill, an unheard-of possibility, began to take shape in Nie Fancheng''s mind, bringing a glimmer of hope amidst his despair.


    "Bao''er!" Zhong Shan called out.


    Bao''er nodded and produced the Resurrection Pill with a flip of her hand.


    "An Immortal Pill?" Nie Fancheng''s eyes lit up, a glimmer of hope shing within them.


    "Can it really save him?" Nie Fancheng asked, his excitement barely contained.


    "We can only try," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Try, just try! Hurry!" Nie Fancheng was almost incoherent in his urgency.


    In usual circumstances, Nie Fancheng would never lose hisposure like this, but his bond with this ''old friend'' ran deep.


    With Zhong Shan''s approval, Bao''er stepped forward.


    Nie Fancheng quickly produced a jade bed and ced the eunuch''s corpse on it.


    Bao''er examined the eunuch''s body, which was charred beyond recognition. His chest had three massive holes from the Golden Crow''s final attack, making it clear that he was beyond dead.


    "Can he still be saved?" Nie Fancheng asked hopefully.


    Bao''er ignored Nie Fancheng''s question and instead looked towards the Dragon Tiger Alchemist Saint.


    "Alchemist Saint, would you be willing to use your Life-Restoring Pill to help me treat this man?" Bao''er asked.


    "Of course!" the Dragon Tiger Alchemist Saint replied with a smile.


    He produced his Life-Restoring Pill and, visibly excited, stepped forward.


    "Use this pill for revival, and this one for healing. Administer them in that order," Bao''er instructed Nie Fancheng.


    She handed over the Resurrection Pill, and the Dragon Tiger Alchemist Saint handed over the Life-Restoring Pill.


    Nie Fancheng looked deeply at the two of them and said, "Regardless of the oue, thank you."


    He then took the two pills, pried open the eunuch''s mouth, and ced the Resurrection Pill inside. The pill dissolved immediately upon entering.


    "Whoosh!"


    A sudden gust of cold wind blew from all directions, causing everyone to shiver. The wind gathered around the eunuch.


    For a full incense stick''s time, the area around the eunuch was shrouded in a thick ck mist, giving off an eerie atmosphere. Gradually, the eunuch''s face began to glow faintly green.


    Everyone held their breath, watching this unparalleled scene unfold.


    Reviving the dead?


    With the chilling wind howling, the eunuch''s entire body was enveloped in a mysterious, eerie aura. His face became increasingly green until it waspletely obscured. Suddenly, the green light surged into his body.


    "He''s alive! The eunuch is alive!" someone shouted in surprise.


    "He really came back to life!"


    "The Immortal Pill, the Resurrection Pill, can actually revive the dead?"


    The alchemists erupted in astonishment. The Resurrection Pill had indeed shown its miraculous power.


    Reactions varied, but Nie Fancheng was the most ecstatic, his face beaming with joy. Then his expression shifted to a cold gaze as he administered the Life-Restoring Pill.


    As soon as the Life-Restoring Pill entered the eunuch''s body, his wounds began to heal rapidly. The deep gashes visibly filled with new flesh, scarred over, and eventually healedpletely, restoring him to his original state.


    The charred skin on his face peeled away, revealing a healthyplexion. The eunuch took a deep breath and suddenly opened his eyes.


    "He''s alive!" an alchemist eximed joyfully.

 Chapter 594: The Conclusion of the Ten Thousand Pills Conference

    <h4>Chapter 594: The Conclusion of the Ten Thousand Pills Conference</h4>


    "He''s alive, he''s really alive!"


    The alchemists eximed in sheer delight. Even the Great Li Emperor had dered the eunuch beyond saving, and yet he had been revived. When Nie Fancheng had ced him on the jade bed, all the alchemists had used their divine senses to check, confirming he was thoroughly dead.


    But now, he was alive again?


    Truly alive?


    While the Life-Restoring Pill healed his body, how had his soul returned?


    The Resurrection Pill had aplished the impossible, making all the alchemists look at Bao''er with deep reverence. This was the effect of an Immortal Pill? It was too miraculous, too powerful!


    From the moment the eunuch opened his eyes, everyone stared at him, holding their breath, waiting to see what would happen next.


    Everyone was tense, except Nie Fancheng, who wore an uncharacteristic cold expression.


    The eunuch slowly opened his eyes, filled with confusion. Suddenly, his pupils contracted, and he regained focus, quickly sitting up with a raised eyebrow.


    Looking around, he suddenly saw Nie Fancheng.


    "Your Majesty, am I, am I still alive?" The eunuch asked in disbelief.


    The onlookers continued to hold their breath, watching this miraculous revival.


    "Who are you?" Nie Fancheng asked coldly.


    "Uh? Your Majesty, it is I, your humble servant!" The eunuch replied, surprised.


    "Yizhao Sansanquan," Nie Fancheng suddenly said a strange phrase that no one else understood.


    "Siliu Sifangshan, Your Majesty, it truly is me!" The eunuch responded with another odd phrase.


    Hearing the correct response to the code, Nie Fancheng''s cold demeanor softened.


    Seeing the eunuch, Nie Fancheng''s hands trembled with emotion.


    Alive, truly alive. Nie Fancheng''s eyes grew moist, though only for a moment, noticed by only a few close observers.


    The eunuch immediately knelt down, moved to tears, "Your Majesty, you went to such lengths for your humble servant!"


    "Good, good, good!" Nie Fancheng finally smiled, a genuine smile of relief.


    "Congrattions, Great Li Emperor," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Congrattions!" Di Xuanha also nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Hahahahaha..."


    Nie Fanchengughed heartily, unable to contain his joy.


    "Great Li Emperor, here are your three treasures," Xu Fu said, presenting the Purple Gold Gourd, the Jade Pure sk, and the Five Fire and Seven Bird Fan.


    Nie Fancheng nodded and took the treasures, then turned to Zhong Shan and his group.


    "Xu Fu of the Great Qin Heavenly Court has also done me a favor. I won''t interfere with your im to the Eternal Sacred tform. However, these three treasures are a gift to you, in gratitude for bringing him back to life. Though I know these treasures cannot fully repay this debt, it''s the best I can offer for now. Henceforth, the Great Zheng Empire is an ally of the Great Li Heavenly Court. Should you ever need anything, the Great Li Heavenly Court will assist you with all its might!" Nie Fancheng dered solemnly.


    The promise of unwavering support from the Great Li Heavenly Court was no small matter. It was a heavymitment that left all those with political acumen in awe. Such a pledge? To aid with all its might?


    Zhong Shan was indeed fortunate! That was the unanimous thought among the onlookers. It was luck, sheer luck! There was no other way to describe it.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan nodded in appreciation.


    "With Di Xuanha escorting you, there''s no need for more words. Farewell," Nie Fancheng said, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan replied with a nod.


    Nie Fancheng turned to Xu Fu. "Convey my gratitude to Ying," he said earnestly.


    Gratitude to Ying? Nie Fancheng didn''t thank Xu Fu directly but rather Ying, knowing that Xu Fu''s assistance was due to Ying''s directive. Thus, his gratitude was aimed at Ying.


    "I will ry it to the Emperor," Xu Fu responded with a smile.


    Nie Fancheng nodded, lifted the old eunuch, and with a flicker, disappeared from sight, leaving behind a tale of miracles.


    Immortal pills that could revive the dead! Such divine power was beyond imagination.


    As Nie Fancheng left, the remaining alchemists turned their attention back to Bao''er and Xu Fu.


    Who would im the Eternal Sacred tform? Who would be the new Alchemy Saint?


    The rule that the three treasures could im the tform was set by emperors and lords of sacrednds, but the alchemists were hesitant to acknowledge it. Would Bao''er use this rule to challenge Xu Fu?


    The Resurrection Pill! The Star Pill!


    Both pills had demonstrated their extraordinary power during the recent turmoil.


    The Star Pill, a tool pill, had stood toe-to-toe with the Nine-Rank Treasure ''Falling Soul Bell'' and held its ground. It was undeniably powerful and revered by all.


    The Resurrection Pill, a consumable pill, had brought a dead man back to life. Its mysterious and miraculous effect was unmatched. With such a pill, even the dead could be revived. What could be more impressive?


    Faced with these two remarkable pills, the alchemists were in awe. However, choosing the superior one was challenging as they served different purposes.


    Bao''er looked at Xu Fu, about to speak, but Xu Fu spoke first.


    "This time, you are the new Alchemy Saint!" Xu Fu dered.


    "Eh?" Bao''er was taken aback.


    "In terms of grade, the Resurrection Pill and the Star Pill areparable. However, you made two pills, so naturally, you win. Besides, the Eternal Sacred tform originally belongs to you, doesn''t it?" Xu Fu said with a smile.


    Many didn''t fully understand Xu Fu''s words, but some caught the underlying meaning. The tform rightfully belonged to Bao''er, who was the rightful heir of the Eternal Alchemy Sect.


    Apart from the spark in Bao''er''s eyes, others had a moment of realization.


    Indeed, while the quality of the two pills couldn''t bepared directly, the quantity could be. Bao''er had produced two pills against Xu Fu''s one. By a two-to-one ratio, Bao''er won.


    "Congrattions to Fellow Daoist Gan, no, Alchemy Saint Bao''er!" the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint immediately congratted Bao''er.


    "Congrattions, Alchemy Saint Bao''er!" nearly all the alchemists echoed.


    Their congrattions were sincere and heartfelt. No one contested Bao''er''s victory since no one else could produce immortal pills.


    "Thank you, Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint," Bao''er said, shaking her head modestly.


    "Today, I am no longer the Alchemy Saint. Just call me Lan Longhu," he replied, showing his grace.


    "No, being an Alchemy Saint is not just about refining great pills but also about having the magnanimity to share your knowledge with the world. Although you possess great alchemical prowess, you''ve always shared your knowledge generously, which I deeply admire. I confess I cannot reach the same level of mastery and spirit as you. You are the true Alchemy Saint!" Bao''er said, shaking her head in respect.


    Bao''er''s words received nods of agreement from the gathered alchemists, who deeply admired the magnanimity and generosity of the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint.


    "Alchemy Saint Bao''er, you are too kind. I am satisfied to have you lead the alchemicalmunity," the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint replied, shaking his head.


    "No, I propose that from now on, there should not be just one Alchemy Saint. Any grandmaster of alchemy who possesses the same magnanimity and dedication as the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint should also be honored with the title of Alchemy Saint. What do you all think?" Bao''er asked the alchemists.


    The alchemists had no objections.


    "We heed Alchemy Saint Bao''er''s decree. Greetings to the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint!" the alchemists collectively addressed both Bao''er and the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint.


    "Thank you all for your kindness!" the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint nodded, not lingering on the matter of titles.


    Thus, there were now two recognized Alchemy Saints: Alchemy Saint Bao''er and the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint.


    As for Xu Fu, he remained a master alchemist, as hecked the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint''s spirit of sharing his knowledge widely. This time, he didn''t surpass Bao''er and would have to wait for another opportunity.


    Xu Fu showed no disappointment, instead turning to Bao''er, "This Ten Thousand Pills Conference has greatly benefited me. In the future, if Alchemy Saint Bao''er is avable, I would wee the chance to practice alchemy together. Just as you have the Eternal Sacred tform, we in the Great Qin have a dedicated sacred tform awaiting you."


    Everyone was taken aback. Did the Great Qin Heavenly Court also have a sacred tform? Wasn''t it supposed to be unique?


    Zhong Shan was surprised but didn''t show it.


    "Good, if the opportunity arises, I would be happy to learn more from you, Daoist Xu," Bao''er replied, nodding.


    Xu Fu smiled, nodded, and, with White Ye following, flew into the sky. A momentter, they vanished.


    The people of the Great Qin had left.


    "Everyone, the Ten Thousand Pills Conference concludes here today!" the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint announced to the alchemists.


    "We obey the Alchemy Saint''s decree!" the alchemists responded, still somewhat reluctant to leave.


    This conference had brought many unexpected changes, but they knew it was best to leave quickly. Otherwise, if the Taishou Heavenly Court returned, they might lose their freedom entirely.


    After the crowd dispersed, the Blue me Emperor hurried off to summon his ministers and reassure the popce.


    Seeing the emperor''s departure, the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint sighed, his eyes filled with worry. Could such an emperor maintain the Blue me Empire?


    Zhong Shan observed the situation, recognizing the emperor''s severe inadequacies. Without the support of his predecessors, he likely wouldn''t have been able to establish an empire. How could he manage an entire empire?


    "Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint," Zhong Shan suddenly addressed him.


    "Yes?" The Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint looked at Zhong Shan with curiosity.


    "I have a heartfelt remark. I hope you won''t take offense," Zhong Shan said earnestly.


    "Speak freely, Emperor Zhong," the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint replied, puzzled.


    "What do you think is the future of the Blue me Empire?" Zhong Shan asked abruptly.


    The Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint''s eyes widened.


    "It willst for generations," he replied with a hint of dissatisfaction.


    "I mean no disrespect. If I''ve offended you, please forgive me. I just have one request," Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh?"


    "In the future, if you ever face difficulties, the Great Zheng Empire wees you with open arms. Join us at the Eternal Sacred tform. You may not have fully experienced all its capabilities yet," Zhong Shan said sincerely.


    The Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint, with his magnanimity, didn''t mind Zhong Shan''s seemingly ominous words. He looked at Bao''er with curiosity.


    Bao''er performed a spell, and the massive Eternal Sacred tform shrank to the size of a fingernail,nding in her hand.


    This sudden transformation astonished the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint. The Eternal Sacred tform could shrink?


    After his initial surprise, his emotions fluctuated as he looked towards the direction of the departing Blue me Emperor, sighing deeply.


    "Emperor Zhong, if that day everes, I will indeede to the Great Zheng Empire," the Dragon Tiger Alchemy Saint said with a sigh.


    "We would be honored to have you!" Zhong Shan responded happily.


    After a few more farewells, Zhong Shan and his entourage left the city to reunite with Zhao Suoxiang, then set off to return to their empire.

 Chapter 595: The Second Transit

    <h4>Chapter 595: The Second Transit</h4>


    Zhong Shan, Di Xuanha, and their entourage quickly found Zhao Suoxiang after leaving Blue me City.


    With Di Xuanha providing protection, the journey was exceptionally safe. Despite the group numbering five thousand, Di Xuanha, a powerful Heavenly Realm expert, managed to escort everyone to eastern Shenzhou within two months.


    Zhao Suoxiang, though only at the Integration stage, was treated with great respect by Di Xuanha upon learning he was themander of the Eighth Legion of the Great Zheng Empire. Previously, Di Xuanha had not experienced Zhong Shan''s influence firsthand. This time, witnessing Zhong Shan''s extraordinary charisma and strategic prowess left a deep impression on him.


    Di Xuanha felt a sense of gratitude. It seemed the Wolf n was finally poised for greatness. Zhao Suoxiang, held in such high regard by Zhong Shan, was bound for a promising future.


    Despite the Great Zheng''s current small size and limited power, their unique position and strategic advantages would soon propel them to new heights.


    At the Taishou Heavenly Court, in Prince Lietian''s Mansion


    Prince Lietian sat at his desk, reviewing various intelligence reports, while others stood on either side, asionally whispering to one another.


    Monk Sekong, having heard about the events in Blue me City, took a deep breath. He felt a sense of pride for his earlier decision to ''run away with an upset stomach.'' So many powerful figures had appeared, and despite their overwhelming advantage, Zhong Shan had managed to leave unscathed, gaining the title of Alchemy Saint, Nie Fancheng''s gratitude, and the Eternal Sacred tform.


    Zhong Shan was indeed as cunning and mysterious as they said. Sekong felt fortunate for not acting impulsively, grateful for his prudence.


    Before him stood Wangchen, who had not joined the Blue me City expedition. Wangchen seemed equally enigmatic, and Sekong decided it would be wise to avoid antagonizing him in the future.


    Although Sekong''s strength was not formidable, his keen instincts had allowed him to navigate the world of powerful figures safely.


    After reviewing the reports, Prince Lietian took a deep breath.


    "A storm is brewing. The chaotic times are upon us," Prince Lietian remarked.


    "What should we do, Lord?" someone asked.


    "With theing chaos, we must strive for dominance. After Nie Fancheng returns, he will undoubtedly target the Taishou Heavenly Court. The entire Shenzhou will be affected. We must act steadily, expanding our territory gradually," Prince Lietian replied.


    "Understood!"


    "My army will focus on the Blue me Empire, which poses no significant challenge. Sekong, you will lead the forces to conquer it," Prince Lietianmanded.


    "Yes!" Sekong immediately responded.


    "While I''m away, Sekong will lead the external forces, and Wangchen will manage internal affairs," Prince Lietian ordered.


    "Yes!" everyone responded in unison.


    "Lord, are you leaving?" Wangchen asked, frowning.


    "Indeed, I need to meet Shen Ya Daojun. It''s time for a serious discussion," Prince Lietian said, his brow furrowing slightly.


    "Has Shen Ya Daojun discovered something?" Wangchen asked, puzzled.


    "I''m not sure. Shen Ya Daojun is extremely mysterious. I need to meet him personally to find out," Prince Lietian shook his head.


    "Understood!" everyone replied.


    Great Li Heavenly Court, Nie Fancheng''s Study


    In Nie Fancheng''s study, ten trusted confidants, the most capable individuals of the Great Li Heavenly Court, were present. Among them was Marquis Shaofei, who stood at the center, reporting on the events he encountered in Blue me City.


    Marquis Shaofei, less powerful than Nie Fancheng, had just returned and was unaware of the changes at the Ten Thousand Pills Conference. When he mentioned Zhong Shan''s mysterious forces expanding to dominate Blue me City, shock filled the eyes of the confidants.


    "Enough!" Nie Fancheng said, shaking his head.


    At Nie Fancheng''smand, everyone fell silent.


    "The Great Zheng Empire is now an ally of the Great Li Heavenly Court. Unless they disturb our court, we will document other matters but take no action," Nie Fancheng stated solemnly.


    "Understood," the group responded, nodding with a mix of surprise and understanding.


    "I''ve gathered you here today to discuss the grand strategy of the world," Nie Fancheng continued.


    The grand strategy of the world?


    "Chaos is upon us!" Nie Fancheng took a deep breath.


    Chaos? The confidants'' breaths hitched. What did he mean by chaos? To Nie Fancheng, wars with neighboring empires did not count as chaos. Only something that affected the entire Shenzhou and could destabilize the Great Li Heavenly Court counted as true chaos.


    Chaos is upon us? The wise men in the room held their breath, waiting for Nie Fancheng to exin.


    "The Taishou Heavenly Court..." Nie Fancheng began, detailing some global events.


    The wise men quickly analyzed and dissected the world''s situation, devising strategies to ensure their survival and victory in the impending chaos.


    Arrival at Tiang Ind


    Zhong Shan reached Tiang Ind, where he received various significant updates.


    The news of theing chaos had not yet spread widely, but several matters caught Zhong Shan''s attention.


    First Matter: The Edict of Youming Heaven


    "Jian Ao wants a world without monkeys?" Gu Qianyou eximed, surprised.


    "Indeed, given Jian Ao''s personality, this move is expected. With the world about to plunge into chaos, this conflict will epass many factions. Not only will the heavenly courts be at war, but the sacrednds will inevitably be drawn in," Zhong Shan mused.


    "Isn''t that an opportunity for us?" Gu Qianyou smiled.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan agreed.


    Second Matter: The Former Great Luo Heavenly Court Princes


    The four former princes of the Great Luo Heavenly Court��Gu Zhengyi, Gu Xuan, Gu Taizong, and Gu Zhantian��had established four grand empires: the Great Yong Empire, the Yongle Empire, the Great Tang Empire, and the Spring and Autumn Empire. Recently, leveraging the deep foundations of the Great Luo Heavenly Court, these empires had ascended to imperial status.


    Gu Qianyou had aplicated rtionship with these four emperors. Though they shared blood ties, there was no familial affection. During her past tribtions, no one besides Zhong Shan had stood up for her.


    Gu Qianyou''s feelings towards the four emperors wereplex and conflicted.


    Third Matter: Intelligence from Qingzhou


    This information came not from scouts but from Yi Yan, Shuijing, and Shui Wuhen. The three legionmanders sent reports indicating that the empires around Qingzhou seemed to be stirring, advising Zhong Shan to prepare in advance.


    "Qingzhou''s empires are bing restless?" Zhong Shan pondered aloud.


    "Yes, we should be vignt," Gu Qianyou suggested.


    "Indeed. We must solidify our position and be ready for any developments," Zhong Shan concluded, his mind racing with strategic ns for the turbulent times ahead.


    The Four Corners of Qingzhou


    "Are there traces of Gu Xuan and the others in the four corners of Qingzhou?" Gu Qianyou asked with a frown.


    "Although Yi Yan and the others wrote their reports cryptically, it appears to be so," Zhong Shan confirmed with a nod.


    "Don''t let my feelings influence your actions. Do what you must. Neither of us owes them anything. I was once the princess of the Great Luo Heavenly Court, but now I''m the empress of the Great Zheng Empire. Even if you oppose them, the world won''t me you because of me," Gu Qianyou said, biting her lip.


    "But..." Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Don''t worry about me. Sooner orter, you will have to face them," Gu Qianyou sighed.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Then go to the underworld with Zheng''er. Out of sight, out of mind," Zhong Shan suggested.


    "Alright," Gu Qianyou agreed.


    The Underworld


    In the underworld, the shadow body of Zhong Shan, apanied by key officials of the Great Zheng Empire, returned to the Hall of Yin and Yang.


    Yan Chongzhi looked at the ''Hall of Yin and Yang'' with a mix of curiosity and surprise. Suddenly, a ck-robed figure appeared at the entrance of the hall.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty!" the Skeleton King, Wang Gu, respectfully greeted Zhong Shan.


    Wang Gu''s sudden appearance made Yan Chongzhi''s heart tighten. How did this person appear so suddenly?


    "Wang Gu, you and the three ghost craftsmen, enter the Hall of Yin and Yang and follow Mud Buddha to the yang world," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" the five responded immediately.


    Mud Buddha led the group into the Hall of Yin and Yang, while everyone else waited outside.


    Yan Chongzhi frowned. Was what the emperor said true? Could they really go to the yang world?


    After waiting patiently for a stick of incense''s time, the door of the Hall of Yin and Yang suddenly opened with a loud rumble.


    Four new faces emerged from within: an exceptionally beautiful woman and three richly dressed men.


    As soon as the doors opened, the four neers frowned slightly but soon adjusted to the new environment.


    "Greetings, Father!" the white-robed man, Zhong Zheng, spoke first.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty!" the other two men also bowed respectfully.


    "We just met, no need for formalities," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Father? The man called Zhong Shan ''Father''?


    "Greetings, Empress Qianyou!" Master Shi immediately greeted respectfully.


    Empress? That woman was the empress?


    "Greetings, Empress, and Crown Prince!" everyone else quickly followed suit.


    The second transit through the Yin-Yang passage included the same nine individuals: Mud Buddha, Wang Gu, the three ghost craftsmen, Gu Qianyou, Zhong Zheng, and two members of the Daring Commerce Guild.


    "The Daring Commerce Guild in the yang world is already on track. Now, let''s expand the Daring Commerce Guild into the vastnds of the underworld!" Zhong Shan dered.


    "Yes, Father!" Zhong Zheng responded enthusiastically.


    "Master Shi, leave a Heavenly Realm zombie to apany the Wolf King and temporarily guard this Hall of Yin and Yang," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" the group responded promptly.


    "Everyone else, follow me back to the capital!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!"


    The Yang World


    After emerging from the Hall of Yin and Yang, the four new arrivals curiously examined their surroundings.


    The Skeleton King seemed particrly intrigued, looking up at the enormous golden sun in the sky without any fear. The three ghost craftsmen, however, remained cloaked in their ck robes, wary of the bright sunlight.


    The four undead beings then turned their attention to Zhong Shan, curious about this other emperor.


    "Your Majesty, here is the Brain-eating Beast," Mud Buddha said, handing over the creature captured earlier to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan took it gently and nodded.


    "Wushuang!" Zhong Shan called.


    "At your service!" themander of the Jinyiwei, Liu Wushuang, responded promptly.


    "Take everyone to rest. I will summon youter," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" everyone responded and followed Liu Wushuang.


    Zhong Shan, holding the vial containing the Brain-eating Beast, quickly flew towards Di Xuanha''s residence to the east.


    I''m exhausted. These past two days have been a whirlwind. Last night, I attended three events, drank until I was dizzy, and then went to a KTV where I have no idea what I sang. Today is the same, and I have another event out of town! I barely managed to finish this chapter. There might not be another chapter today, but if I don''t drink myself into a stupor, I will definitely write more tonight. I''ll do my best!

 Chapter 596: A Great Supplement

    <h4>Chapter 596: A Great Supplement</h4>


    Zhong Shan arrived at Di Xuansha''s residence shortly thereafter.


    He wasn''t worried about any dangers on Tiang Ind, as it was his own stronghold. Moreover, Zhong Shan''s cultivation level meant that any potential threats would have toe from beings of at least the Heavenly Emperor level, and such individuals wouldn''t be allowed to enter the ind without permission.


    Two hourster, Zhong Shan stood before Di Xuansha''s grand hall.


    Di Xuansha looked at Zhong Shan with a frown, unsure of his intentions. His gaze fell on the small bottle in Zhong Shan''s hand, and a sudden chill ran down his spine. What was this thing that made him feel an imminent danger?


    "I need you to protect me while I cultivate," Zhong Shan stated directly.


    "Breakthrough?" Di Xuansha asked.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Di Xuansha agreed with a nod.


    "However, we can''t do it here. We need to find a deserted ce, preferably outside Tiang Ind, somewhere absolutely secluded," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    Di Xuansha was slightly taken aback but didn''t question it. He simply nodded in agreement.


    With Di Xuansha leading the way, the two flew south quickly, leaving Tiang Ind. They flew for nearly a day, covering an immense distance given Di Xuansha''s speed.


    They arrived at a deste ind, vast and barren, with no life and only countless jagged stone mountains.


    Once theynded, Zhong Shan took out a grand hall and set up a formation to conceal it, while Di Xuansha stood guard outside the formation.


    Di Xuansha was extremely curious about the small bottle Zhong Shan held and why they had to travel so far away.


    Inside the grand hall, Zhong Shan sat down and looked at the small bottle before him.


    The Brain-eating Beast ranked ny-fourth on the list of divine beasts in the Grand Thousand World.


    Such a powerful creature. Zhong Shan had already witnessed its might in the underworld. Even the Fire Qilin, which ranked lower and was suppressed by the rules of the Small Thousand World, was immensely powerful, unrivaled in its realm. The Brain-eating Beast, even stronger, was a fierce and formidable entity.


    If it weren''t for the shadow body opening the reincarnation passage, the Brain-eating Beast wouldn''t have been captured so easily. Even with part of the reincarnation passage opened, it wasn''t something ordinary beasts could withstand. Yet, the Brain-eating Beast''s soul remained intact.


    The Brain-eating Beast was incredibly strong. As long as it touched the soil, it could restore its power. This was its weakest moment, but seeing it excited Zhong Shan immensely.


    What others saw as a disaster, Zhong Shan viewed as a treasure.


    Through the bottle, the Brain-eating Beast red fiercely at Zhong Shan. Though it had been captured and its power lost, the Beast was unafraid, for its soul was indestructible. At least, in this Small Thousand World, no one could harm it. Now trapped, it only needed to escape. Once free and touching the earth, it would dominate again.


    Zhong Shan, naturally, was unafraid of the Brain-eating Beast.


    Staring at the bottle, Zhong Shan coldly smiled and gently unscrewed the cap.


    As soon as the cap was off, the Brain-eating Beast was momentarily stunned, then ted. Was this person seeking death? He was courting death!


    Overjoyed, the Brain-eating Beast quickly leaped out of the bottle, aiming for the ground.


    But just as it was about to reach the earth, something soft, like a tail, swatted the Beast''s soul back into the air.


    The Brain-eating Beast looked again and saw only a gaping maw. Instinctively, it felt a chill of terror. It didn''t understand what was happening, but it was filled with fear.


    "Awoo!" The sound of devouring echoed.


    Above Zhong Shan''s head, his root consciousness emerged, manifesting as the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. It was this very tail that had just swallowed the Brain-eating Beast. The Beast, known for devouring the brains of countless beings, could never have imagined bing someone else''s meal.


    The Brain-eating Beast, ranked ny-fourth among the divine beasts of the Grand Thousand World, even in its spiritual form, was an extraordinarily terrifying existence. Its soul, impervious even to the reincarnation passage, contained an immense amount of energy, incredibly high-level energy.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail happily began digesting the Brain-eating Beast.


    The tail was already immensely powerful, yet it took a full hour and a half to fully digest the Beast''s soul. To put it in perspective, even ninth-grade artifacts would disintegrate almost instantly upon entering the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail''s maw. The Beast''s soul, however, was exceptionally hard to assimte.


    The benefits Zhong Shan reaped from this were equally immense.


    Outside, Di Xuansha kept a vignt watch. Suddenly, the sky darkened as thick clouds rolled in, and thunder roared, heralding Zhong Shan''s breakthrough. ck clouds, foreboding and immense, filled the sky, crackling with violent purple lightning.


    Di Xuansha gulped, finding Zhong Shan''s breakthrough incredibly strange. It was almost unbelievable how Zhong Shan always seemed to break through in such a short time.


    Suppressing his initial surprise, Di Xuansha reminded himself that this had be a norm for Zhong Shan. Every time he closed his eyes to cultivate, he emerged stronger. With this thought, he resigned himself to the bizarre phenomenon.


    "Boom!"


    The ck clouds continued to expand, spreading so far that even Di Xuansha''s keen sight couldn''t see their edge. He silently chanted to himself, "This is normal, just ordinary."


    Within the formation, Zhong Shan absorbed the energy overflowing from the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    Emperor Realm, Fifth Layer!


    Emperor Realm, Sixth Layer!


    Emperor Realm, Seventh Layer!


    Emperor Realm, Eighth Layer!


    Emperor Realm, Ninth Layer!


    Emperor Realm, Tenth Layer!


    Zhong Shan''s cultivation surged, soaring from the fifthyer of the Emperor Realm to the tenth in a frenzy of advancement. Such a rapid ascent��oneyer per incense stick''s duration��was unheard of. Cultivation typically became progressively harder and more time-consuming the further one advanced. Apart from reincarnated ancient powerhouses, who could possibly achieve such speed?


    It was terrifying and astonishing.


    Five consecutiveyers!


    No, given this momentum, Zhong Shan could have continued to ascend. However, there was a formidable barrier between the Emperor and Heavenly Emperor realms, preventing further progress. This wasn''t due to Zhong Shan''s constitution but the natural separation between the two realms.


    Such a distinction was essential; without it, there would be no real difference between the Emperor Realm and the Heavenly Emperor Realm. Otherwise, it would make sense to simply ssify it all as the Emperor Realm with twentyyers.


    Even though Zhong Shan couldn''t break through to the next realm, the energy from the Brain-eating Beast still hadn''t been exhausted.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail continued to absorb this energy, which began to bolster Zhong Shan''s other cultivation techniques.


    In his brow, the Hong Luan Pink Lotus began to spin rapidly, seemingly infused with a burst of energy from the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. After another half hour, a verdant green stem mysteriously sprouted from the base of the Hong Luan Pink Lotus. A root? Zhong Shan''s eyes widened in surprise, then filled with delight.


    <strong>Hong Luan Heavenly Sutra, Seventh Layer: irvoyance!</strong>


    Reaching the seventhyer, the Hong Luan Heavenly Sutra had gone from the beginning stage of irvoyance to full irvoyance. The difference might seem small, but the actual gap was as vast as the heavens and the earth.


    Zhong Shan didn''t have time to investigate the effects of the seventhyer as another surge of energy coursed through his body, causing his Heaven''s Demonic Body Tempering Technique to advance rapidly.


    <strong>Heaven''s Demonic Body Tempering Technique, Fifth Layer!</strong>


    <strong>Heaven''s Demonic Body Tempering Technique, Sixth Layer!</strong>


    Finally stopping at the sixthyer, the Heaven''s Demonic Body Tempering Technique provided a sevenfold increase in strength.


    Zhong Shan felt as if he had been struck by a wave of happiness. This was indeed a huge gain; the energy from the Brain-eating Beast had brought immense benefits.


    Even with Zhong Shan''s meager aptitude, the residual energy was enough to significantly enhance his strength. How much more so for the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, which had absorbed the main portion of the energy?


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had be a fearsome entity, now solid and tangible rather than an illusory root of consciousness. Its eight terrifyinglyrge tails were so vividly colored that an ordinary person would be ensnared at first nce. The space around the tails seemed to warp and ripple.


    After devouring the immense energy, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail seemed eager to stretch its body, swinging its eight massive tails.


    <strong>"Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh..."</strong>


    As the eight tails danced, the very space trembled. The force of this movement shattered the great hall Zhong Shan sat in and rippled outwards.


    <strong>"Boom!"</strong>


    The external formation disintegrated as the terrifying spatial vibrations radiated in all directions. The formation''s copse prompted Di Xuansha to take flight, astonished by the sight below.


    A colossal creature, a hundred zhang in size, with eight massive tails, was causing an upheaval. The tremors from its movements sent waves of dirt and debris skyward.


    The entire barren ind shook, reduced to rubble in the span of five breaths. Within moments, the ind, roughly one percent the size of Tiang Ind, crumbled into dust and sank into the sea.


    For thirty thousand miles around, the ocean roiled with towering waves, as if the end of the world had arrived. The ocean boiled, and every living creature within that range was obliterated.


    After stretching its eight tails in a series of fluid motions, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail ceased its movement, transforming into a stream of light that re-entered Zhong Shan''s body. It left behind a dead zone��a thirty-thousand-mile expanse of lifeless sea, where everything had been annihted, the ind reduced to dust, and only Zhong Shan and Di Xuansha remained untouched.

 Chapter 597: Forced Marriage

    <h4>Chapter 597: Forced Marriage</h4>


    Di Xuansha stared in astonishment at the scene before him, his eyes filled with an unusual expression.


    What was that creature just now? Right, thest time Zhong Shan severed the earth vein of Sky Wolf Ind, that creature had appeared once. It was just a phantomst time, but this time it had formed a solid body?


    The power just now, eight tails weaving through space, creating ripples that annihted everything within three hundred thousand miles��what kind of ability is this?


    Di Xuansha could achieve something like this, but what about Zhong Shan? What level of cultivation does he have now? How could he do this too? This was something only those at the Heavenly Extreme Realm could do!


    How did that creature enter Zhong Shan''s body?


    Moreover, Zhong Shan''s cultivation, the Emperor Extreme Realm, the tenth level?


    Advancing five levels in a row?


    Di Xuansha''s face twitched again. This wasn''t just hard work in cultivation; this speed was more terrifying than the best foundation of an upper-level being. Was this still the so-called inferior foundation that was beyond salvage?


    Di Xuansha was full of doubts but also excitement. The stronger Zhong Shan became, the better it would be for the future of the Wolf n.


    Below, Zhong Shan stood in mid-air, slightly stunned as he looked at the destruction caused by the Eight Extreme Tails.


    Zhong Shan did not seek out Di Xuansha but looked into the distance. The red lotus in the middle of his brows transmitted another wave of red and green energy into Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    Suddenly, the world in Zhong Shan''s eyes changed, filled with endless, boundless rules of heaven and earth spreading in all directions.


    These rules were grayish-white in color.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up as he saw a special pattern.


    Red, a red pattern?


    At the moment he saw that red pattern, Zhong Shan suddenly felt a surge of fiery intent rushing into his mind, shaking his spirit. It was more overwhelming than all the rulesbined. A unique red pattern.


    However, this red pattern disappeared as quickly as it appeared.


    Zhong Shan''s heart was filled with indescribable shock. What was that?


    Grayish-white rules were only visible and did not affect his spirit, but that red pattern made his heart pound wildly.


    What was it?


    Aw!


    That was not a rule pattern; it was aw pattern!


    Thews of heaven and earth, the true source of power!


    Was that aw?


    Zhong Shan''s heart was filled with endless excitement. Laws��one must know that in the Lesser Thousand World, only those at the Heavenly Extreme Realm could touch a hint of thew. Just touching a hint of thew allowed them to unfold their own "heaven."


    The Emperor Extreme Realm could at most sense the rules and could not fullyprehend them, yet in front of Zhong Shan were actual rule patterns, patterns that even those at the Heavenly Extreme Realm could not see so clearly. Zhong Shan could even asionally see a few strands ofw patterns.


    The source of power, thews��what Zhong Shan saw just now was a firew.


    "Hoo��"


    Not far away, a blue pattern suddenly appeared, shing past Zhong Shan''s side and disappearing into the distance. A surge of water power swept toward Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan shivered. A waterw?


    The shock and joy in Zhong Shan''s heart reached an infinite height. One must know that even the most powerful Heavenly Extreme Realm experts could only grasp a sliver of a single type ofw, yet thews in Zhong Shan''s eyes seemed limitless?


    Quickly, he closed his eyes.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath, calming himself.


    Hongluan Scripture, seventh level! Breaking illusions!


    Too terrifying, too defying of the natural order��he could even seews flickering?


    "What happened?" Di Xuansha descended and asked.


    Zhong Shan calmed himself, slowly opened his eyes, now serene, and shook his head. "Nothing. Let''s return to Sky Wolf Ind."


    Di Xuansha had a thousand questions to ask, but seeing Zhong Shan, he took a deep breath and suppressed them.


    If he didn''t understand now, he would witness Zhong Shan''s power in the future firsthand.


    A year and a halfter, in Qingzhou, at Yi Yan''s residence.


    A group of strategists stood before Yi Yan. These were the talents who had emerged from Da An''s imperial examinations over the past few decades. They were distributed across the realm, with a group assigned under Yi Yan.


    Yi Yan, a man of great wisdom, naturally did not belittle the young. As long as they disyed virtue and intelligence, Yi Yan would entrust them with important tasks.


    Tie Xue stood in front of this group, looking at Yi Yan, waiting for him to speak.


    Yi Yan held a letter in his hand, reading it with a satisfied smile on his face.


    "Sir, what good news has His Majesty brought?" Tie Xue asked.


    Tie Xue, having studied under Yi Yan in the arts of strategy and power, naturally addressed Yi Yan as "Sir."


    "There are two pieces of good news. First, the Da An Dynasty has added two more legionmanders: the seventh legionmander, Yan Chongzhi, and the eighth legionmander, Zhao Suoxiang," Yi Yan said with a smile.


    "Two more? Where did His Majesty find these people? Can they match Sir?" Tie Xue clicked his tongue in a defiant manner.


    "His Majesty''s judgment is naturally infallible. Tie Xue, don''t speak nonsense!" Yi Yan''s face turned serious.


    "Yes!" Tie Xue replied, though still a bit unwilling.


    Seeing Tie Xue''s stubbornness, Yi Yan shook his head with a lightugh.


    "Marshal, what''s the second piece of good news?" another person asked.


    "The second piece of good news is that our Da An Dynasty is preparing to advance to an empire!" Yi Yan announced.


    Indeed, upon hearing this news, almost everyone was overjoyed. They were not only happy about the strength of the Da An Dynasty but also about the promotion of their own ranks.


    Although their official positions remained the same, the shift in the empire''s status would significantly increase their share of the dynasty''s fortune.


    "Marshal, what do we need to do?" someone asked excitedly.


    "Start preparing. Advancing to an empire is not easy. In theing period, you must follow my instructions. For every task you aplish, your meritorious deeds will be recorded," Yi Yan said.


    "Yes!" the group responded, their faces full of strong joy.


    "I will assign tasks appropriately. You will surelyplete them. During this time, you must be fully alert. Any mistakes at this critical juncture will not be tolerated by me, Yi Yan!" Yi Yan''s face turned serious.


    The stern expression on Yi Yan''s face startled everyone, instantly quelling their intense joy. Naturally, they became moreposed, resolving to handle the forting tasks with utmost caution to ensure no mistakes urred during the promotion.


    Outside Yi Yan''s residence.


    At Shui Wuhen''s and Shuijing''s residences, Zhong Shan''s letters had arrived, marking the officialmencement of preparations for the empire''s promotion in Qingzhou.


    On Sky Wolf Ind.


    After the morning assembly, Zhong Shan met Di Xuansha again in the Hall of Longevity.


    "We need your help once more," Zhong Shan said solemnly to Di Xuansha.


    "Don''t worry. For Da An''s promotion and for my Wolf n, I will handle everything properly," Di Xuansha nodded seriously.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan said earnestly once again.


    Although Di Xuansha was working for the Wolf n, considering his immense power and high status in Shenzhou, his willingness to follow Zhong Shan''s arrangements was unprecedented. By rights, Zhong Shan should not have been able tomand him, yet Di Xuansha cooperated fully. Zhong Shan, in turn, showed him great respect.


    Di Xuansha nodded and suddenly looked outside the hall.


    "You have things to do, I''ll take my leave," Di Xuansha said, then vanished from Zhong Shan''s sight.


    Zhong Shan nodded, then looked outside the hall in puzzlement.


    Outside the hall, Bao''er had arrived.


    Bao''er was followed by a man in white. Bao''er''s expression seemed slightly mncholic as she entered the hall in silence.


    "What''s the matter?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Bao''er.


    "He''s here to see you," Bao''er pouted.


    "From the Longevity World, Bai Qingyan greets Emperor Zhong!" the man in white respectfully addressed Zhong Shan.


    The Longevity World? Bai Qingyan? The surname Bai?


    "Uh, who are you?" Zhong Shan looked at Bai Qingyan, a hint of curiosity in his eyes.


    "Bai Qingsi is a distant cousin of mine. Long ago, Bai Qingsi''s family left the Longevity World and joined a mortal dynasty. Our Bai n deeply regretted this, but fortunately, Bai Qingsi eventually returned to the Longevity World," Bai Qingyan exined.


    "The Bai n?" Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    "Indeed," Bai Qingyan affirmed.


    "What do you need from me?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "My cousin Bai Qingsi asked me to deliver a letter to you personally," Bai Qingyan said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    Bai Qingyan handed over a letter.


    As soon as Zhong Shan opened the letter, he found a strand of ck hair inside, the secret signal he had agreed upon with Bai Qingsi. Judging by the length of the strand, Zhong Shan immediately knew the letter contained only four words.


    Opening the letter, he saw it indeed contained only four words:


    "Come quickly, save me!"


    Come quickly, save me? Zhong Shan''s heart trembled at these four words. Although Bai Qingsi appeared gentle, Zhong Shan knew she was extremely proud and aloof, never lowering her head. She was a girl who was outwardly gentle but inwardly strong and stubborn.


    Such a girl, even when facing immense difficulties, would never ask for help but would endure silently.


    But now? Come quickly, save me?


    These four words revealed Bai Qingsi''s deep dependence on Zhong Shan and also indicated that something extraordinarily significant had happened.


    "What happened to Qingsi?" Zhong Shan immediately asked.


    "Cousin is being forced into marriage!" Bai Qingyan quickly replied, as if urging Zhong Shan to save her as well.


    "Forced marriage? By whom?" Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold.


    "By Bing Xuan Zhenjun!" Bai Qingyan said gravely.


    Bing Xuan? Zhong Shan''s mind quickly recalled the blue-haired, devilishly handsome man he had encountered long ago. That time, when he met Bai Qingsi while traveling to the Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, the man who had apanied her, whom she called uncle but who persistently pursued her.


    "Him? Impossible, he can''t be a match for Qingsi!" Zhong Shan said, his heart sinking.

 Chapter 598: Going to Snatch the Bride

    <h4>Chapter 598: Going to Snatch the Bride</h4>


    "Him? Impossible, he can''t be a match for Qing Si!" Zhong Shan''s heart sank.


    Bing Xuan was indeed not a match for Bei Qing Si. Bei Qing Si''s strength was unparalleled, with the bloodline of an immortal and the formidable power that came with it. Over the years, Zhong Shan had learned about Bei Qing Si''s ancestor.


    This ancestor, who appeared thirty thousand years ago, was a female immortal with an unmatched mastery of ice. She was known as the strongest person in the world, not in a specific field, but in overall strength. She was invincible, unmatched by anyone.


    This woman did not possess a celestial title, nor did she join a holynd or a heavenly dynasty. She was a solitary cultivator whose ordinary cultivation speed led her to be the strongest in the world.


    When the heavenly might descended, bringing thick clouds and shing lightning, the impending powerful tribtion was frozen by this woman.


    Freezing thunderclouds? Freezing a heavenly tribtion?


    It was too terrifying! Her strength was overwhelming. No one in the world could challenge her, making her an unrivaled figure.


    With such power, she altered her mortal fate, achieving an immortal destiny.


    Once she attained immortality, she left behind descendants and exited this realm, leaving behind an ancient legend.


    Among her descendants, a person would emerge every few generations, activating the bloodline''s inherited powers.


    Typically, the descendants of ordinary immortals would have their bloodline inheritance activated every few generations.


    However, the Bei n had never seen such an activation, or it had never urred.


    The powerful Bei n gradually integrated into the Longevity World until a few hundred years ago, when a remarkably powerful figure emerged��Bei Qing Si''s father, Bei Qing Feng.


    Bei Qing Feng was a genius, an absolute genius, proficient in various fields such as moral cultivation, feng shui, and officialdom. Despite the difficulties of mastering three systems simultaneously, which hindered focused growth, he persevered.


    Bei Qing Feng''s goal was not to master these systems deeply but to unlock the bloodline inheritance of the Bei n.


    He seeded! In the end, Bei Qing Feng unlocked the bloodline inheritance, but the cost was immense��over three hundred family members sacrificed themselves for Bei Qing Si to activate her bloodline inheritance.


    What a tragic decision it was to use the lives of his entire family to activate a single bloodline inheritance?


    No one knew what Bei Qing Feng was thinking. At least Zhong Shan couldn''t understand it initially. Maybe there was a deeper meaning. Nheless, Bei Qing Si''s bloodline inheritance was sessfully activated.


    Strong! Very strong!


    From Bei Qing Si''s past feat of freezing three thousand miles, Zhong Shan could sense her immense strength!


    While Bing Xuan was strong, he was definitely not a match for Bei Qing Si. Her bloodline inheritance was not something ordinary people could ovee.


    Could Bing Xuan force Bei Qing Si?


    "It''s the Water lineage of the Longevity World!" Bai Qingyan said.


    "Oh? One of the six lineages of the Longevity World, the Water lineage?" Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold.


    The Water lineage was precisely the lineage Bei Qing Si had joined upon entering the Longevity World. This lineage was forcing Bei Qing Si to marry Bing Xuan?


    Bing Xuan Zhenjun? Had Bing Xuan reached the Emperor Extreme Realm?


    Zhong Shan''s thoughts raced. He recalled the blue-haired, devilishly handsome man he had encountered before. This was the same man who had been persistently pursuing Bei Qing Si while she called him uncle. This situation wasplex and fraught with danger. It was clear that Zhong Shan needed to act swiftly.


    "Prepare to depart immediately!" Zhong Shanmanded, his eyes shing with determination.


    Zhong Shan''s followers sprang into action, aware of the urgency and gravity of the situation. This was not just a rescue mission; it was a confrontation with one of the most powerful lineages in the Longevity World.


    The sky over Sky Wolf Ind darkened as the forces of Da An began to mobilize. Zhong Shan, leading his elite team, prepared for the journey that would determine the fate of Bei Qing Si and challenge the authority of the Water lineage.


    "Qing Si, hold on. I''ming," Zhong Shan muttered, his resolve as firm as iron.


    "Bing Xuan Zhenjun is actually the crown prince of the Ice Seal Empire in the southern part of Shenzhou. The Ice Seal Emperor has reached the end of his life and has passed the throne to Crown Prince Bing Xuan. The Water lineage of the Longevity World is now forcing my cousin to marry the new Ice Seal Emperor," Bai Qingyan exined.


    "Oh? When did the sacrednds startpromising with the empires?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "The Longevity World has notpromised. Rather, the Ice Seal Empire might be a vassal of the Longevity World. My cousin is being used to win over Bing Xuan and solidify the rtionship between the Water lineage and the Ice Seal Empire," Bai Qingyan said.


    "Solidify? What is so special about the Ice Seal Empire?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    Zhong Shan knew about the Ice Seal Empire. It was located to the south of Qingzhou, and within its bordersy a mountain range that was home to Zhong Shan''s eldest son, Zhong Tian. Zhong Tian resided at the Daming Temple, which was situated within the Ice Seal Empire.


    Aside from the formidable power of the former Ice Seal Emperor, the empire had nothing else noteworthy. With the Ice Seal Emperor''s death, everything seemed to have turned to ashes.


    Why was the Longevity World so interested in such an empire?


    "I heard that it''s not just about solidifying the Ice Seal Empire. There''s also the Xuanwu n from the South Sea. They seem to be negotiating a pact with Bing Xuan, possibly even forming a strategic alliance with the Longevity World through the Ice Seal Empire," Bai Qingyan exined.


    "The Xuanwu n? Even the Xuanwu n from the South Sea is involved?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrows raised.


    The Xuanwu n had once signed an agreement with the Yin Yue Dynasty on Sky Wolf Ind, but the Yin Yue Dynasty had since fallen. Now, the Xuanwu n was reappearing?


    "Yes, I heard that the Xuanwu n''s supreme leader is very invested in this. If you want to save my cousin, the chances are slim. But since my cousin asked me to find you, I had to deliver her message," Bai Qingyan sighed.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath and remained silent for a while.


    "My cousin also asked me to ry another message," Bai Qingyan continued.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan stared at Bai Qingyan.


    "She said that if there is no other way, she would like to see you onest time. She asked that youe before the wedding; she has something important to give you," Bai Qingyan sighed deeply.


    Something important to give him? Zhong Shan''s heart suddenly tightened.


    He remembered thest time he met Bei Qingsi, when she insisted on leaving him to return to the Longevity World. She had mentioned retrieving an heirloom left by the Bei family''s immortal ancestor, saying it would be very useful to Zhong Shan. At that time, Zhong Shan was too preupied with the sorrow of parting to pay attention to her words. Now, recalling them and hearing her desperate plea, his heart ached.


    Bei Qingsi had returned to the Longevity World for him! For his sake, she had ced herself in danger. Even as she faced the threat of being devoured by a tiger, she still thought of him?


    Bei Qingsi didn''t know the full extent of Zhong Shan''s power. She only knew him as the ruler of an imperial dynasty, with the Wolf n at his back at most.


    The Wolf n''s supreme leader had an exalted status. Would he really engage in the folly of "snatching a bride" for the sake of an emperor? Meanwhile, the Ice Seal Empire had the foundation of an imperial dynasty, the support of the Xuanwu n, and the backing of the powerful Water lineage of the Longevity World.


    Could Zhong Shan fight against all that?


    For some reason, Bei Qingsi, thinking of Zhong Shan''s smile, had written the words "Come quickly, save me." It was a spiritual reliance, a final struggle against her impending helplessness.


    Even if Zhong Shan didn''te, Bei Qingsi wanted to see him onest time and give him "that thing" along with all her feelings.


    "How is Qing Si now?" Zhong Shan asked, suppressing his heartache.


    "She has been sealed, her entire cultivation suppressed," Bai Qingyan replied.


    Zhong Shan''s face hardened with resolve. "We depart immediately!" hemanded.


    The forces of Da An began to mobilize under Zhong Shan''s leadership. This was a critical mission that involved not only rescuing Bei Qingsi but also confronting the formidable alliances within the Longevity World and beyond.


    As they prepared to leave, Zhong Shan''s mind was focused on the imminent confrontation. "Qing Si, hold on. I''ming to get you," he whispered to himself, his determination unwavering.


    "Who sealed her?" Zhong Shan''s eyes turned icy, a surge of hostility emanating from him.


    "Bing Xuan''s master, Jing Xue Shen," Bai Qingyan replied.


    "Jing Xue Shen?" A cold gleam shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    "But for now, my cousin is safe," Bai Qingyan said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at Bai Qingyan in surprise.


    "My cousin is wielding an heirloom left by our n''s immortal ancestor. Only those at the Heavenly Extreme Realm can approach her briefly. No one else can get close," Bai Qingyan exined.


    "Oh? Then how did she...?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Jing Xue Shen ambushed my cousin initially, and only afterward did she take out the immortal heirloom. But then Jing Xue Shen sought help from the Realm Lord, Shen Ya Daojun, who dispatched Nu Qinghui Daojun to assist the Water lineage," Bai Qingyan said.


    Jing Xue Shen? Shen Ya Daojun? Nu Qinghui Daojun?


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "In the Longevity World, our Bei n is not highly regarded and has even suffered abuse from some powerful figures. It was only after my cousin arrived that our situation improved. She has even saved my life twice. I know it''s almost impossible for you to rescue her, but please, at least fulfill her wish and see her onest time," Bai Qingyan pleaded.


    "No!" Zhong Shan''s voice was cold.


    "You...!" Bai Qingyan was furious.


    "I won''t settle for just seeing her onest time. I will rescue her! And those who harmed Qing Si will pay with their lives!" Zhong Shan''s voice was icy.


    "You?" Bai Qingyan was stunned.


    "Return to the Longevity World and bring the entire Bei n out. From now on, Da An will be your home," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Uh?" Bai Qingyan was taken aback.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s resolute expression, Bai Qingyan took a deep breath and said, "Your confidence is infectious. I will report to the n leader truthfully and try my best to persuade him. But the final decision rests with him."


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "How much time do we have?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The wedding will be held in Ice Seal City in four months. The procession escorting my cousin is currently en route. I hope you make it in time," Bai Qingyan said.


    "Alright. You should go," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Bai Qingyan nodded and quickly flew away, heading towards the Longevity World to deliver Zhong Shan''s message to the Bei n leader.


    Once Bai Qingyan left, Zhong Shan turned to Bao''er, who was pouting.


    "How many lovers do you have?" Bao''er asked with a hint of resentment.


    Zhong Shan broke into a sweat.


    "Only Qing Si! I told you before, didn''t I?" Zhong Shan immediately tried tofort her.


    "Who knows?" Bao''er said with a tone of jealousy.


    "I think you''re turning into a little jealous wife," Zhong Shan teased, pinching Bao''er''s nose yfully.


    "Hmph!" Bao''er snorted.


    The next day, after handling all the important affairs of the court, Zhong Shan summoned a figure in a ck robe.


    Skeleton King, Wang Ku!


    Due to his unique body, Wang Ku was not involved in the preparations for the empire''s promotion. However, for the uing journey to the Ice Seal Empire, Wang Ku''s presence was essential due to the overwhelming forces involved.


    "Let''s go!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Wang Ku nodded.

 Chapter 599: The Trap

    <h4>Chapter 599: The Trap</h4>


    Zhong Shan, apanied by Wang Ku, left Sirius Ind, venturing far into the South Sea.


    Beneath the South Sea, a vast array of underwater pces stood, resembling the Dragon Pce of the East Sea. However, the waters here were exceptionally cold, with nearby underwater icebergs visible, their crystalline brilliance creating a magnificent sight.


    In the center of the pce cluster near the icebergs stood a grand crystal pce. Above its entrance hung a que with three bold, imposing characters.


    Xuanwu Pce!


    The supreme residence of the Xuanwu n! Inside Xuanwu Pce, a white-haired elder was ying a game of Go with a young man. The young man was deep in thought, while the elder sipped tea, smiling as he watched.


    Suddenly, a man in white robes entered.


    "Greetings, Supreme One. Greetings, Young Master!" the man in white immediately said.


    Upon hearing this, both the elder and the young man looked up.


    "Reporting to the Supreme One, the task has beenpleted. Xuanwu King Xuan Yan should arrive at the Frozen Empire within two months at most," the man in white reported respectfully.


    "Very well," the white-haired elder nodded.


    "Have you found out anything about the situation to the east?" the young man asked.


    "Reporting to the Young Master, not yet!"


    "Not yet? It''s been a year and a half, and you still haven''t found anything?" The young man frowned deeply.


    "We are doing our best!"


    "Dismissed!" the eldermanded.


    "Yes, sir!" The man in white bowed and left.


    "Ancestor, it''s been a year and a half. Who could this Heaven Extreme Realm expert be, causing such turmoil?" the young man asked with a furrowed brow.


    "Shenzhou is full of hidden talents. On the surface, there are those known Heaven Extreme Realm experts, but there will always be a few who remain hidden. Just like at the recent Ten Thousand Pills Convention, that Xu Fu, even I had never heard of him before!" the elder sighed.


    "But this is too unusual. It''s just a deserted ind. Destroying a deserted ind and killing thirty thousand miles'' worth of living beings, what is the point? By the time we arrived, everyone was gone! It''s bizarre! Bizarre!" the young man eximed.


    "Perhaps it won''t be long before we find out," the elder said in a deep voice.


    "Oh?"


    "The chaotic times areing. No matter how well he hides, he will be exposed during this chaos," the elder said.


    "Yes, but Ancestor, do we really have to attach ourselves to the Longevity World?" the young man suddenly showed a hint of dissatisfaction.


    "Shenzhou has not entered a period of chaos for eighty thousand years. Do you know that every time chaos arises, Shenzhou undergoes a great reshuffling? How many forces will be wiped out by the chaos? Whether they are empires or holynds, none can escape the fate of chaos. Many demon beast ns will also face extinction. If we do not prepare now, do you want to wait until the true day of annihtiones? We cannot be the eternal sinners of the Xuanwu n!" the elder sighed.


    "But attaching ourselves to the Longevity World..."


    "The Longevity World is ultimately a holynd, the most profound holynd in Shenzhou. No one knows how strong it truly is. Moreover, the Longevity World has an alliance with the Taisui Empire. Together, they should be able to survive this chaos! Once we get through the chaos, we won''t need to depend on them anymore!" the elder said with a hint of bitterness.


    "Will the Longevity World agree to that then?" the young man asked worriedly.


    "They will. They definitely will!" the elder sighed.


    "Alright," the young man replied, but his eyes held a hidden determination��


    Frozen Empire! The imperial pce!


    In a grand hall, three men stood.


    The leading figure, d in white, had snow-white hair and no eyebrows above his eyes. Standing beside him was a blue-haired, wickedly charming man of striking handsomeness. If Zhong Shan were present, he would instantly recognize him as the ''Bing Xuan'' he had seen before��the current emperor of the Frozen Empire.


    The eyebrowless, white-haired man was Jing Xue Shen, a significant elder of the Water Branch in the Longevity World, the very one who had ambushed Bei Qingsi and sealed her cultivation.


    In front of them stood another man, carrying a sword on his back.


    "Reporting to the two True Lords, Bei Qingyan should have arrived at Sirius Ind by now," the swordsman reported respectfully.


    "Good! You may leave. Continue monitoring Bei Qingyan''s every move and report to us at once," Jing Xue Shenmanded in a deep voice.


    "Yes, sir!" The swordsman bowed and exited.


    "Master, what does this mean? Did you intentionally let Bei Qingyan lead Zhong Shan here?" Bing Xuan asked, frowning.


    "Indeed," Jing Xue Shen replied solemnly.


    "Why?"


    "Don''t you want Bei Qingsi back?"


    "Of course, disciple desires Bei Qingsi, but why bring Zhong Shan here?"


    "Do you not remember the message Bei Qingsi sent through Bei Qingyan? What does she intend to give Zhong Shan?" Jing Xue Shen asked.


    "Could it be that treasure?"


    "It must be. Ever since Dao Lord Shenyao listed Zhong Shan as a future enemy of the Longevity World, I''ve been gathering information on him and closely observing Bei Qingsi. The item she intends to give Zhong Shan is undoubtedly that treasure, which belongs to the Longevity World. How can we allow it to strengthen our enemy?" Jing Xue Shen spoke gravely.


    "Moreover, as long as Bei Qingsi holds that treasure, I cannot approach her safely. Do you want to marry a mere flower vase?" Jing Xue Shen continued.


    "But with Bei Qingsi''s cultivation sealed, we could ask the Dao Lord for assistance and retrieve the item ourselves," Bing Xuan suggested, frowning.


    "If we, the Water Branch, request help from another branch, it would be aughingstock in the Longevity World!" Jing Xue Shen said proudly.


    "Understood!" Bing Xuan nodded.


    "Besides, this is also Dao Lord Shenyao''s intention," Jing Xue Shen said, taking a deep breath.


    "Oh?"


    "Almost two years ago, Crown Prince Lietian of the Taisui Empire came to the Longevity World and had a secret discussion with Dao Lord Shenyao for three days and nights. After that, Zhong Shan was officially listed as a significant enemy of the Longevity World. Although Zhong Shan is undoubtedly not our match, Dao Lord Shenyao still chose to lure him out of hisir, so we can capture him and eliminate a potential threat," Jing Xue Shen exined earnestly.


    "Even Dao Lord Shenyao is involved?" Bing Xuan asked in surprise.


    "Dao Lord Shenyao is only concerned with Emperor Xuan Sha. If Emperor Xuan Sha doesn''te, neither will Dao Lord Shenyao!" Jing Xue Shen said.


    "No wonder half of our Water Branch''s forces are mobilized. Regardless of the oue, Zhong Shan is doomed this time!" Bing Xuan said gravely.


    "Precisely. We''ve invested a tremendous amount of power into this trap��half the forces of the Frozen Empire, the Xuanwu n, and our Water Branch, along with Nu Qinghui Dao Lord. Zhong Shan will certainly have no escape," Jing Xue Shen dered.


    "To die under such an array is an honor for Zhong Shan!" Bing Xuan said with a wicked smile.


    "Although this method might seem underhanded, the rewards are enormous. You will get Bei Qingsi, the Longevity World will reim the treasure, the Xuanwu n will be our vassals, Zhong Shan will perish, and the Daeyi Empire will fall! It''s a perfect n!" Jing Xue Shen said excitedly.


    "Then let''s just wait for Zhong Shan to walk into his doom!" Bing Xuan said with satisfaction in his heart��


    Two monthster, Zhong Shan and Wang Ku arrived in the territory of the Frozen Empire.


    In arge city, Zhong Shan found a contact from the Da Rong Merchant Guild.


    In a backyard, Zhong Shan, apanied by the ck-robed Wang Ku, faced the contact.


    "Deliver this letter to Daming Temple and hand it personally to the abbot, Zhong Tian," Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    "Understood!" the contact nodded respectfully.


    Zhong Shan found three different contacts to ensure the letter was delivered without fail. Only then did he leave the city with Wang Ku.


    "Your Majesty, where are we heading now?" Wang Ku asked.


    "To Yixiantian to intercept the wedding procession," Zhong Shan replied solemnly.


    "Understood!"


    Yixiantian, or "A Line of Heaven," was a ce in the Frozen Empire. From the information Zhong Shan obtained from the Da Rong Merchant Guild, it was a crucial point on the wedding route.


    Yixiantian was a massive mountain nearly ten thousand feet high, with a chasm splitting it from top to bottom, as if a giant de had cleaved it in two.


    A narrow gorge that the wedding procession would inevitably pass through.


    Zhong Shan and Wang Ku waited there early.


    The next day, the two stood before the gorge, hearing the distant rumble of the grand wedding procession approaching. A dark mass of nearly a million people slowly came into view.


    Trumpets and drums resounded, creating a jubnt and lively atmosphere.


    The emperor of the Frozen Empire was marrying his empress, so the celebration had to be grand. Despite its seeming vulgaritypared to the refined elegance of cultivators, the grandeur showcased the emperor''s respect for his empress.


    Bing Xuan highly valued Bei Qingsi and thus spared no effort in ensuring the ceremony was as grand as possible.


    The million-strong procession was solely for the wedding, ensuring Bei Qingsi''s safety throughout.


    Zhong Shan stood quietly at the base of the mountain, waiting patiently by the path through Yixiantian.


    In the distance, the highly trained elite troops of the Frozen Empire approached, a formidable force.


    Zhong Shan, however, was alone except for Wang Ku.


    "You don''t need to intervene. I''ll handle this," Zhong Shan instructed Wang Ku.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Wang Ku nodded and stepped back further.


    The million-strong army drew closer, soon reaching within a hundred feet of Zhong Shan.


    The sight of a million soldiers was overwhelming, a vast wall of people, trained to perfection, moving with the force of a copsing sky.


    The leading general, riding a lion-like beast, halted the army with a wave of his hand.


    Zhong Shan''s gaze fixed on the massive flower pnquin at the center of the procession.


    The pnquin was shielded by an array, revealing nothing of its interior. ording to custom, it should contain the future empress, Bei Qingsi.

 Chapter 600: Kill on a Whim!

    <h4>Chapter 600: Kill on a Whim!</h4>


    A gentle breeze scattered leaves across the expansive za. The scene was eerie��behind Zhong Shany the gorge known as Yixiantian, with Wang Ku waiting nearby, while in front of him stood an imposing army of a million soldiers, stretching as far as the eye could see.


    The sheer size of the army was a formidable force. Zhong Shan, having led armies in the past, understood the might of a well-coordinated force. An army moves in unison under amander''s orders, amplifying their power. If a single soldier''sbat power is 50, then a million soldiers could achieve abat power of 30 million. Never underestimate an army.


    Just like someone wielding a flying sword��one person with one sword is not terrifying, but a million people with a million flying swords is overwhelming.


    Zhong Shan, an expert in military leadership, was fully aware of the power before him. Yet, he stepped forward resolutely, showing no fear.


    The leading general spotted Zhong Shan and gave a cold stare. Beside him stood a white-robed man.


    Zhong Shan had seen him once before on Sirius Ind, part of the Yin Moon Dynasty''s camp��a Xuanwu King, Xuan Yan!


    Xuan Yan, who had once tried to capture Bao''er, had his hard Xuanwu shell shattered by an immortal from the Great Thousand World in a single strike.


    It was him��an incredibly powerful being at the Emperor Extreme Realm!


    "Zhong Shan?" the general called out coldly from a distance.


    Zhong Shan''s appearance was no secret; almost every emperor and official of the dynasties knew him. Over the past century, Zhong Shan had made a striking impression across Shenzhou.


    Xuan Yan, standing beside the general, also stared at Zhong Shan intently.


    Xuan Yan had deep experiences with the Daeyi Dynasty. Even when it was still a kingdom, it was already strong and mysterious. Despite his power, he had suffered significant losses to Daeyi.


    This Zhong Shan must be extraordinarily cunning.


    But no matter how cunning, did he really think he could stop an army alone? Stop him?


    "Leave the pnquin, and you can go," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    Leave the pnquin? And then we can go?


    Everyone was stunned. Whether they recognized Zhong Shan or not, they all looked at him as if he were a madman.


    Too arrogant! Who did he think he was? Leave the pnquin and just walk away?


    "Hahahaha, what a joke! Are you delirious?" the leading generalughed.


    Zhong Shan had no patience for small fry.


    He suddenly lifted his right foot and took a step forward.


    "Boom��"


    A massive thunderp echoed in the sky. Everyone looked up to see the once-clear sky suddenly covered in dark clouds, with lightning shing in all directions.


    Terrifying purple lightning crackled continuously, and a powerful aura of heavenly might pressed down, making it hard for many soldiers to breathe.


    "The heavens..." Xuan Yan eximed, looking up. The heavens? Only Heaven Extreme Realm experts couldmand such power. This vast thundercloud��was it the heavens?


    Xuan Yan had only seen this with the Xuanwu n''s supreme leader, a power that was seemingly invincible, like possessing a piece of the sky, embodying heavenly authority.


    "No, this isn''t the heavens. This is the ''Heavenly Thunder Transformation'' from the Creation God Pce," Xuan Yan shouted immediately.


    As an Emperor Extreme Realm expert, Xuan Yan had the most insight. The general, initially frightened by the thought of heavenly power, felt a pang of fear.


    The wind blew gently, scattering leaves across the za. It was an eerie scene. Behind Zhong Shany the Yixiantian Gorge, with Wang Ku waiting nearby. In front of him was a vast army of one million soldiers, a seemingly endless sea of ck.


    This was an immense force. Zhong Shan, with his experience in leading armies, understood the power of a well-coordinated military. An army''s strength lies in its ability to move as one under themander''s orders, amplifying individualbat power into a formidable collective force. An individual might have abat power of 50, but a million soldiers could collectively wield abat power of 30 million. Never underestimate an army.


    It''s like a person wielding a flying sword��one sword alone isn''t terrifying, but a million swords in unison are overwhelming.


    Zhong Shan, a master of military strategy, was fully aware of the power before him. Yet, he stepped forward resolutely, showing no fear.


    The leading general spotted Zhong Shan and gave a cold stare. Beside him stood a white-robed man.


    Zhong Shan had seen him once before on Sirius Ind, part of the Yin Moon Dynasty''s camp��a Xuanwu King, Xuan Yan!


    Xuan Yan, who had once tried to capture Bao''er, had his hard Xuanwu shell shattered by an immortal from the Great Thousand World in a single strike.


    It was him��an incredibly powerful being at the Emperor Extreme Realm!


    "Zhong Shan?" the general called out coldly from a distance.


    Zhong Shan''s appearance was no secret; almost every emperor and official of the dynasties knew him. Over the past century, Zhong Shan had made a striking impression across Shenzhou.


    Xuan Yan, standing beside the general, also stared at Zhong Shan intently.


    Xuan Yan had deep experiences with the Daeyi Dynasty. Even when it was still a kingdom, it was already strong and mysterious. Despite his power, he had suffered significant losses to Daeyi.


    This Zhong Shan must be extraordinarily cunning.


    But no matter how cunning, did he really think he could stop an army alone? Stop him?


    "Leave the pnquin, and you can go," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    Leave the pnquin? And then we can go?


    Everyone was stunned. Whether they recognized Zhong Shan or not, they all looked at him as if he were a madman.


    Too arrogant! Who did he think he was? Leave the pnquin and just walk away?


    "Hahahaha, what a joke! Are you delirious?" the leading generalughed.


    Zhong Shan had no patience for small fry.


    He suddenly lifted his right foot and took a step forward.


    "Boom��"


    A massive thunderp echoed in the sky. Everyone looked up to see the once-clear sky suddenly covered in dark clouds, with lightning shing in all directions.


    Terrifying purple lightning crackled continuously, and a powerful aura of heavenly might pressed down, making it hard for many soldiers to breathe.


    "The heavens..." Xuan Yan eximed, looking up. The heavens? Only Heaven Extreme Realm experts couldmand such power. This vast thundercloud��was it the heavens?


    Xuan Yan had only seen this with the Xuanwu n''s supreme leader, a power that was seemingly invincible, like possessing a piece of the sky, embodying heavenly authority.


    "No, this isn''t the heavens. This is the ''Heavenly Thunder Transformation'' from the Creation God Pce," Xuan Yan shouted immediately.


    As an Emperor Extreme Realm expert, Xuan Yan had the most insight. The general, initially frightened by the thought of heavenly power, felt a pang of fear.


    "What is the heavens? It''s the hallmark of the Heaven Extreme Realm. Even an army of a million would be nothing against the Heaven Extreme Realm. Not to mention the Emperor Extreme Realm is beyond our reach," he thought. However, hearing it wasn''t the heavens brought some calm to the general.


    "Is that so?" Zhong Shan shouted coldly.


    Then, the countless bolts of lightning above suddenly contracted back into the ck clouds, and the boundless ck clouds shrank until the distant edges were visible.


    The ck clouds seemed to decrease in power as they shrank, but a soul-crushing aura suddenly descended from the clouds.


    A force that oppressed the very souls of those present crashed down, causing some weaker cultivators to fall to their knees in fear. The soldiers felt their strength significantly diminished.


    Wang Ku, standing not far behind, nced at Zhong Shan with aplex expression.


    "The heavens, it''s really the heavens. How is this possible? How can a mere emperor master the heavens? It''s impossible!" Xuan Yan shouted in disbelief.


    The effect of ''the heavens'' was something Xuan Yan had only felt from the supreme leader of the Xuanwu n. Although not as powerful, the feeling was unmistakable.


    Wang Ku looked at Zhong Shan in disbelief. Others might not understand, but Wang Ku knew Zhong Shan was only at the tenth level of the Emperor Realm. Yet, how could he wield ''the heavens''?


    Is this truly the heavens?


    Indeed! Though Zhong Shan had not reached the Heaven Extreme Realm, he could still exert heavenly might because he had grasped the essence of ''the heavens''. The Red Luan Heavenly Scripture had allowed Zhong Shan to touch thews of heaven and earth, and while he could not fully utilize them, he could easily manifest ''the heavens''.


    Zhong Shan walked forward confidently.


    Under the heavenly might, the general seemed unable to speak, feeling an invisible pressure not just on his mind but on his soul.


    The million-strong army waspletely subdued by Zhong Shan.


    Xuan Yan, though able to resist, did not move to stop Zhong Shan for some reason.


    The army stood still like straw puppets.


    This was the terrifying might of the heavens.


    Zhong Shan had always faced peerless experts, so he hadn''t fully appreciated the power of the heavens. Now, he realized that heavenly might alone was enough to subdue anyone below the Emperor Realm.


    The Heaven Extreme Realm was too overwhelming! Just its presence could secure an unassable position within an empire.


    The general tried to struggle, but Zhong Shan''s cold gaze and a sudden thunderp from the sky shook his spirit. Even his lion-like beast crouched in fear of the heavenly might.


    Zhong Shan reached the flower pnquin and struck it with his palm.


    "Boom��"


    The protective array around the pnquin shattered, and the door slowly opened.


    But as Zhong Shan looked inside, his brow furrowed.


    The pnquin was empty! Bei Qingsi was not inside. This was a decoy. The wedding procession was merely a ruse.


    Zhong Shan instantly sensed a plot.


    Turning to look at the others, Xuan Yan also appeared surprised. It was clear he didn''t know what was happening either.


    Xuan Yan''s expression turned cold. He was clearly displeased with Bing Xuan. The bride wasn''t here, yet he had been deceived into escorting an empty pnquin. Why hadn''t Bing Xuan informed him? He wouldn''t have undermined Bing Xuan''s n, but Bing Xuan had tricked him. Was he just a puppet, even though he was of the Emperor Extreme Realm?


    "Where is Bei Qingsi?" Zhong Shan suddenly asked, his gaze icy as he looked at the general.


    "Hahaha!" the generalughed defiantly.


    "I''ll ask you one more time. Where is Bei Qingsi?" Zhong Shan repeated, his voice deep and serious.


    "I will never tell you. Give up!" the general replied stubbornly.


    "Aren''t you afraid I will kill you?" Zhong Shan asked, narrowing his eyes.


    "You dare? Unless you don''t want to ever...," the general began, but Zhong Shan cut him off.


    "Hmph!"


    "Boom��"


    Without wasting another word, Zhong Shan let out a cold snort and swung his mighty de, ''Nightmare'', in a swift, lethal arc.


    The general could hardly believe it. Zhong Shan dared to strike? How could this be possible?


    There was no suspense. The immobilized general stood no chance against Zhong Shan''s de.


    The surrounding soldiers felt a wave of terror. This man was too brutal. Disagreeing with him meant death?


    Xuan Yan, standing nearby, felt his eyelid twitching. He clenched and unclenched his hands but ultimately did not interfere.


    The general was dead, naturally, but he could still speak.


    With two drops of liquid flicked from Zhong Shan''s fingers, a green ghost floated up from the corpse.


    The ghost, now the general''s spirit, looked around in disbelief. He was dead? How could this be? How could he be dead?


    "Demon, you''re a demon!" The general''s ghost cried out in terror as he saw Zhong Shan.


    "I''ve already killed you. What do I have to fear? You''d better tell me now, if you want any chance of entering the underworld. Otherwise, I''ll scatter your soul to the winds!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    This time, the ghost general did not dare to be stubborn. This demon was too terrifying.


    He was dead, pathetically dead. If he didn''t answer, his soul might be destroyed.


    "I''ll talk, I''ll talk!" the ghost general wailed.


    "Hmm!" Zhong Shan red at the ghost general.


    "On the way here, Bei Qingsi was taken by Nu Qinghui Dao Lord from the Longevity World. She was taken to Frozen City," the ghost general said miserably.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan asked, his voice cold as he looked at the ghost.


    "I heard it was to lure you to Frozen City. Our wedding procession was just a distraction to attract your attention, and Xuan Yan was only here to eliminate any other pests and ensure I delivered the message to you," the ghost said in fear.


    "They specifically wanted you to bring me the message?" Zhong Shan was suddenly taken aback.


    He realized this was a massive conspiracy against him, starting from when Bei Qingyan went to Sirius Ind.


    "Yes, I didn''t want to tell you initially to make the message more natural, so you wouldn''t see through the plot against you. But, but..." the ghost was on the verge of tears.


    The ghost general felt immense sorrow and regret. One act of defiance had cost him his life, and the punishment was a haunting lesson.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed as he processed the information. The borate schemeid out before him was a web of deceit and danger, aimed precisely at drawing him into a trap.


    Turning his gaze to Xuan Yan, Zhong Shan saw the look of frustration on his face. It was clear that even Xuan Yan was unaware of the full extent of the n, merely used as a pawn in arger game.


    Zhong Shan''s mind raced, weighing his next moves carefully. The path ahead was fraught with peril, but one thing was clear: he would not allow those who had plotted against him to seed. With steely determination, Zhong Shan began to formte his counterattack, the fires of retribution burning brightly in his heart.

 Chapter 601: Another Encounter with Bei Qingsi

    <h4>Chapter 601: Another Encounter with Bei Qingsi</h4>


    Zhong Shan left with Wang Ku, leaving behind theplex expressions of Xuan Yan and the hundred thousand soldiers who were still trembling in fear.


    Even after Zhong Shan had walked far away, the soldiers'' backs were still drenched in sweat. This Zhong Shan was terrifying. How could such a person exist in the world? To kill an opponent over a disagreement without hesitation? Even when themander had grabbed Zhong Shan''s weakness, hoping to make him cautious, Zhong Shan had simply cut him down with a single stroke and then interrogated his ghost.


    Thinking of the unfortunatemander, the soldiers all shivered and silently mourned for him. He was too unlucky! His death was truly unjust. Originally, it had little to do with him. The Ice Emperor had asked him to leak the information, and it would have been fine if he had just done that. But he had to "practice his acting skills," resulting in his tragic death by a single stroke.


    Henceforth, thismander would be a permanent warning in the hearts of all the soldiers: to be low-key and never to "act" like thatmander.


    Zhong Shan and Wang Ku headed straight for Ice Seal City.


    Outside Ice Seal City, Zhong Shan stopped at a great distance.


    "Wang Ku, are you sure about this?" Zhong Shan asked in a deep voice.


    "Rest assured, Your Majesty. My skeletal n has its own secret methods. Even at the Heavenly Extreme realm, they won''t detect me. I can sneak into Ice Seal City and find Bei Qingsi for you. I will then use my divine sense to establish a connection between you two," Wang Ku assured solemnly.


    "Connection? Can you bring her out to me?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "No, I can manage on my own, but if I bring someone along, I will surely be discovered by other Heavenly Extreme experts. At that time, Bei Qingsi could be injured in the sh," Wang Ku said solemnly.


    "Alright then, let''s start with the connection," Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "Understood!"


    "I will stay in this valley for now. You may go," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Wang Ku nodded and then disappeared from Zhong Shan''s sight.


    In the distance was Ice Seal City, the Yan capital covered in boundless luck. Wang Ku, being in the Heavenly Extreme realm, could not be stopped by Yan capital, and with his secret methods, he could ensure that no one would detect him.


    Zhong Shan waited patiently, having given Wang Ku all the details of Bei Qingsi''s appearance. Wang Ku would surely find her.


    In Ice Seal City, within the pce, inside a grand hall, a group of maids and eunuchs waited outside.


    "Junior Sister, the wedding is imminent. Stop being stubborn. It''s useless. You know that," a seductive man''s voice echoed from within the hall.


    "I am not your junior sister, not before, not now, and not ever. Ice Emperor, please leave!" a cold voice responded.


    It was Bei Qingsi. Inside the hall, she looked at Bing Xuan with a calm expression.


    Being rejected by Bei Qingsi, Bing Xuan''s face turned more sinister. "Bei Qingsi, don''t be smug. Sooner orter, I will break your icy demeanor. Do you think you''re invincible with that treasure protecting you? I have a thousand, no, ten thousand ways to remove it. When that timees, I''ll make you beg for life and death, kneeling and pleading for my favor!"


    "Oh? Is that so? Then do it when you can. Otherwise, get out!" Bei Qingsi''s voice was icy.


    "Hmph!" Bing Xuan snorted coldly, having hit a wall, and turned to leave the hall.


    After confirming Bing Xuan had left, Bei Qingsi let out a long sigh, a bitter smile appearing on her face.


    With a flick of her wrist, a white jade statue suddenly appeared in Bei Qingsi''s hand. It was a statue of an unparalleled beauty, exuding a mysterious allure that filled the surroundings with an illusory sensation.


    Of course, this dreamlike sensation was anything but pleasant. Anyone whoid eyes on the statue would be overwhelmed by their inner demons, causing their energy to spiral out of control and leading to a violent explosion. Only those at the Heavenly Extreme realm could somewhat resist its effects. Otherwise, no one, except Bei Qingsi, who had inherited the Bei family bloodline, could withstand it.


    The white jade statue was like a demonic entity, keeping even formidable figures like Bing Xuan and Jing Xueshen at bay. Despite her sealed cultivation, as long as Bei Qingsi possessed this treasure, no one dared approach her.


    The statue appeared to be naturally formed rather than crafted by human hands, imbued with an infinite demonic force.


    After gazing at the white jade beauty for a while, Bei Qingsi sighed softly and took out a set of Zhong Shan''s old clothes. This was the set of clothes Zhong Shan had dressed her in after cleaning her body when she was pierced by a Breaking Qi Arrow on Tiang Ind. Since then, she had treasured these clothes, often taking them out to touch when she missed him.


    At this moment, with one hand holding the white jade statue and the other stroking Zhong Shan''s clothes, a hint of tenderness flickered in her eyes.


    "Where are you? Did you receive my cousin''s message? Will youe?" Bei Qingsi murmured with aplex expression.


    "Don''te. It''s dangerous here. They''re all targeting you, and you can''t save me. But... why do I still want you toe? You shouldn''te, but why do I still expect you toe? Is it because of this treasure? Yes, I must want to give this treasure to you." Bei Qingsi bit her lip as she spoke to herself.


    Suddenly, a figure in a ck robe appeared out of thin air in front of her.


    Startled, Bei Qingsi instinctively and swiftly put away Zhong Shan''s clothes, as if they were the true treasure. The white jade statue flickered and disappeared into her body.


    "Who are you?" Bei Qingsi asked in a stern voice.


    "Wang Ku," the ck-robed figure replied dryly.


    Bei Qingsi remained silent.


    "His Majesty sent me to find you," Wang Ku said solemnly.


    "Hmph, Bing Xuan again, haunting me like a ghost!" Bei Qingsi sneered, though she remained cautious due to the ck-robed figure''s mysterious arrival.


    "The His Majesty I speak of is not Bing Xuan," Wang Ku said.


    "Oh?" Bei Qingsi stared at Wang Ku.


    "I''ll let His Majesty speak to you," Wang Ku said.


    Suddenly, a projection appeared in front of Bei Qingsi. It was Wang Ku''s divine sense projecting Zhong Shan''s distant image.


    The moment Bei Qingsi saw Zhong Shan''s projection, her face lit up with joy, but it quickly turned cold again.


    "Do you think you can deceive me with this trick?" Bei Qingsi sneered.


    "Qingsi, it''s me!" The projection suddenly emitted a soft voice.


    Outside Ice Seal City, in a valley, Zhong Shan also saw a projection. This projection showed Bei Qingsi, created by Wang Ku''s distant magic.


    Seeing that Bei Qingsi did not believe him, Zhong Shan immediately spoke. Simultaneously, Wang Ku perfectly replicated Zhong Shan''s voice and tone in front of Bei Qingsi.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s gentle tone, Bei Qingsi''s heart trembled uncontrobly. She looked at the projection with aplex expression, partly believing, partly doubting.


    "Qingsi, do you remember the fish soup I made for you in Langyu? Do you remember how I washed your hair?" Zhong Shan said softly.


    The events Zhong Shan mentioned were known only to the two of them, a secret that no one else could know. The fact that Zhong Shan could speak of these memories confirmed that the projection was indeed him.


    "Zhong Shan, is it really you? Am I dreaming?" Bei Qingsi''s eyes overflowed with tears, and she lunged toward Zhong Shan, but the projection was intangible, leaving her grasping at empty air.


    Failing to touch Zhong Shan, Bei Qingsi gave a bitter smile. Suddenly, her expression changed to one of rm.


    "Hurry, leave quickly. I just found out a few days ago that this is a trap set specifically for you. Many powerful individuals havee, intending to ambush you. Do not show yourself, please don''t!" Bei Qingsi said urgently.


    Seeing Bei Qingsi''s concern, Zhong Shan felt a warmth in his heart.


    "If I leave, what about you? Are you really going to marry that Bing Xuan?" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Bei Qingsi''s tears flowed again.


    "As long as you''re safe, that''s all that matters. This is the treasure I mentioned before; let your man take it," Bei Qingsi said, holding out the white jade statue.


    Zhong Shan shook his head. "No, I don''t want this statue."


    "This statue is incredibly useful to you. It can help you cultivate many strong practitioners. You must take it. Everything I''ve done was to deliver this treasure to you," Bei Qingsi said urgently, her eyes showing anxiety.


    "No, I only want you," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Zhong Shan''s words left Bei Qingsi in silent contemtion, her previous anxiety fading into a profound stillness.


    "It''s too dangerous. You won''t seed. Nu Qinghui Daojun, the Ice Seal Imperial Court, the Water Branch, the Xuanwu n, and even more powerful beings I don''t know are all gathered here to ambush you. Do note, please don''t. Additionally, the Water Branch of the Longevity Realm has brought their treasured weapon, a peerless divine sword, the Water Extermination Sword, which is on par with my treasure," Bei Qingsi said urgently.


    "Water Extermination Sword?" Zhong Shan was momentarily taken aback by the mention of the divine sword, ignoring Bei Qingsi''s anxiety.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s interest in the sword at such a moment, Bei Qingsi couldn''t help butugh through her tears.


    "Among the six branches of the Longevity Realm, four represent earth, fire, wind, and water, each possessing a peerless divine sword: the Sword of Punishment, the Sword of ughter, the Sword of Entrapment, and the Water Extermination Sword. The Water Branch''s weapon is the Water Extermination Sword, and it''s here now. Zhong Shan, you must leave, taking this treasure with you," Bei Qingsi urged again.


    "And after I leave, what about you?" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Bei Qingsi bit her lip. "Don''t worry, I won''t let Bing Xuan seed."


    Looking at Bei Qingsi, Zhong Shan felt deeply moved. With her cultivation sealed, if she lost the treasure, how could she resist? If she couldn''t fend off Bing Xuan, there was only one possible oue: sacrificing herself to preserve her purity. How could Zhong Shan leave knowing this? How could he live with himself if he did?


    "Trust me," Zhong Shan said firmly.

 Chapter 602: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Rogue Plan

    <h4>Chapter 602: Zhong Shan''s Rogue n</h4>


    "Trust me!" Zhong Shan said with a serious expression.


    Zhong Shan''s heartfelt assurance steadied Bei Qingsi''s trembling heart, filling her with endless happiness. Her lips quivered as if to speak, wanting to stop Zhong Shan, but seeing the resolute look in his eyes, she found herself unable to say anything.


    "Okay," Bei Qingsi smiled with an infatuated expression, understanding everything.


    "Tell me about their n. Who are involved?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "Bing Xuan, an Imperial Extreme realm expert. Xuanwu Supreme, Gui Shou. Nu Qinghui Daojun. Jing Xueshen, another Imperial Extreme realm expert. Two other elders from the Water Branch, both in the Imperial Extreme realm. Additionally, there are at least twenty Royal Extreme realm experts," Bei Qingsi said with a frown.


    "Two Heavenly Extreme realm experts? Four Imperial Extreme realm experts? Twenty Royal Extreme realm experts? They certainly think highly of me!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Indeed, this lineup was overwhelmingly powerful. Two Heavenly Extreme realm experts and four Imperial Extreme realm experts could sweep across any empire. All these people gathered just to ambush Zhong Shan? Just to ambush a mere emperor?


    Which emperor in the world had ever faced such a lineup?


    "And there''s the Water Extermination Sword in the Sword Storage Hall! The Water Extermination Sword is too powerful. Along with the Sword of Punishment, Sword of ughter, and Sword of Entrapment, it forms the Extermination Sword Array, one of the top eighteen treasures in the history of Divine Continent. It''s said that wielding this sword, an Imperial Extreme realm expert can elevate their power to the Heavenly Extreme realm!" Bei Qingsi added with a frown.


    "Heavenly Extreme realm? So that means there are effectively three Heavenly Extreme realm experts ambushing me?" Zhong Shan said with a strange look.


    The Longevity Realm truly spared no effort. Was he worth this much?


    "Of course, there might be other hidden forces that I don''t know about," Bei Qingsi continued, her face growing more worried.


    But seeing Zhong Shan''s determined look, Bei Qingsi''s worries turned into tenderness. She believed in Zhong Shan, in his wisdom, and that he would find a way. Even if he was ultimately ambushed by Bing Xuan and the others, she was prepared to sacrifice herself for Zhong Shan.


    "Wait!" Zhong Shan suddenly raised an eyebrow.


    Bei Qingsi looked at him curiously.


    "What did you just say? Sword Storage Hall? What does that mean? The Water Extermination Sword isn''t being carried by anyone?" Zhong Shan asked in confusion.


    "Yes, the Water Extermination Sword exudes too much murderous energy. Even Imperial Extreme realm experts can''t carry it for long. And the Water Branch wouldn''t hand it over to Nu Qinghui or Gui Shou, so they ced it in a newly built hall," Bei Qingsi exined.


    "Oh? A newly built hall? Aren''t they afraid of it being stolen?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "No, you''ll understand when you see it. I can take your subordinate to check it out," Bei Qingsi offered.


    "You can move around freely?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "My cultivation is sealed, so they don''t monitor me closely. As long as I don''t leave the pce, no one stops me. After all, I haven''tpletely broken with the people of the Longevity Realm," Bei Qingsi exined.


    "Alright, go ahead then. Clear everyone out, and Wang Ku will appear before you," Zhong Shan said oddly.


    "Okay," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    Bei Qingsi, with a cold expression, was escorted by several pce maids to the so-called Sword Storage Hall. The hall was majestic, guarded by numerous soldiers. Strangely, they allowed Bei Qingsi to enter freely and even closed the doors at her request.


    Once the doors were closed, the interior was illuminated by numerous luminous pearls.


    At this moment, Wang Ku suddenly appeared in front of Bei Qingsi. Simrly, Zhong Shan, who was far away, also saw the scene through Wang Ku''s projection.


    A ck ancient longsword, half-embedded in the ground of the Sword Storage Hall, emanated a fierce aura that spread in all directions, causing anyone who looked at it to feel an uncontroble sense of dread. The fierce aura affected the surrounding environment, creating a bone-chilling cold that made one feel as if their entire body was frozen just by looking at it.


    Even from the distant valley, Zhong Shan felt this oppressive sensation through the projection, illustrating how much more intense the impact would be for those directly in front of it. No wonder even those at the Imperial Extreme realm couldn''t endure its presence!


    The Four Swords of Extermination, the first swords under heaven! Just seeing this sword gave Zhong Shan a sense of its invincibility. This was no exaggeration. Zhong Shan had never imagined that a sword could possess such a powerful aura. Just one nce at this sword brought a piercing chill, showcasing its formidable power.


    Indeed, the legendary treasures were not famous without reason. Zhong Shan could be sure that this Water Extermination Sword was even stronger than a ninth-grade magical treasure. It was like the ancient god''s Heaven-Opening Axe, believed to be stronger than immortal artifacts. This Water Extermination Sword, being of the same rank as the Heaven-Opening Axe, undoubtedly possessed capabilities beyond those of ordinary immortal artifacts. It was no wonder that an Imperial Extreme realm expert wielding this sword could reach the Heavenly Extreme realm.


    The sword was incredibly powerful!


    Surrounding the sword were strands of mysterious mist: white, ck, and blue. These three types of mist floated around the Water Extermination Sword, seemingly protecting it.


    "The Water Extermination Sword is protected by three major restrictions: the strongest restriction of the Water Branch of the Longevity Realm, Nu Qinghui Daojun''s restriction, and Gui Shou''s restriction. With these three restrictions, no one can take it," Bei Qingsi sighed.


    "Oh? Wang Ku, can you break these three restrictions?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Wang Ku shook his head. "These three restrictions are extraordinarily powerful. I can break them, but it would take an hour for each. Once I start breaking them, the ones who set the restrictions will definitely be alerted."


    "So you can''t take this sword?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Indeed, I can''t take this sword," Wang Ku shook his head and sighed.


    "These three restrictions are like the strongest locks, securing the Water Extermination Sword here. It''s impossible to take it," Bei Qingsi shook her head and sighed.


    Zhong Shan fell into deep thought.


    "With these three restrictions, the Water Extermination Sword is absolutely secure. That''s why Jing Xueshen and the others let mee and go freely. They feel safe leaving the sword here because of these three locks. No one can steal or take it," Bei Qingsi shook her head.


    "No!" Zhong Shan''s eyes suddenly brightened, and a sly smile appeared on his lips.


    "Uh?" Bei Qingsi was slightly taken aback.


    Wang Ku also looked at Zhong Shan''s projection with curiosity. No? His Majesty wasn''t here. It was just him and Bei Qingsi. They both said it was impossible to take the sword. Could His Majesty have a solution?


    With a strange feeling, they both stared at Zhong Shan.


    "The three strongest locks?" Zhong Shan had a mischievous smile.


    "So what?" Bei Qingsi asked.


    "Since there are already three strong locks, why not add one more?" Zhong Shan said with an odd smile.


    "Uh?" Both Wang Ku and Bei Qingsi were stunned, then looked at Zhong Shan with a mixture of confusion and frustration.


    "What do you mean?" Bei Qingsi asked.


    "We''ll add our own lock, a lock that only I can unlock," Zhong Shan said, a cunning glint in his eyes.


    "How will that help us take the sword?" Wang Ku asked, puzzled.


    "We''re not taking the sword," Zhong Shan rified. "We''re going to make sure no one else can use it either. If they can''t use the sword against us, we level the ying field. Now, listen carefully to my n..."


    With that, Zhong Shan began to outline his unconventional strategy, a rogue n that only he could devise.


    Both Bei Qingsi and Wang Ku found Zhong Shan''s n somewhat amusing and somewhat brazen. This method was too rogue, too underhanded!


    If you won''t let me steal it, I won''t let you use it either!


    Bei Qingsi and Wang Ku exchanged nces, both breaking into strange smiles.


    "Rest assured, Your Majesty. I will set up the strongest restriction of my n. I guarantee that it cannot be broken in less than three hours, and no one will notice my restriction until they try to take the sword!" Wang Ku said with a sly smile.


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded.


    With a strange smile, Bei Qingsi watched as Wang Ku set up the restriction,pleting Zhong Shan''s rogue n!


    One could only imagine the moment when those powerful individuals, at the crucial moment, unlocked their restrictions only to find another one in ce. The feeling would be like swallowing a fly��how exhrating!


    After Wang Ku finished setting the restriction, both Bei Qingsi and Wang Ku returned to the pce.


    "What do you n to do? How should I cooperate with you?" Bei Qingsi asked, looking at Zhong Shan''s projection.


    "ording to Jing Xueshen and the others'' n, they deliberately let the weing team reveal your information to me. At this moment, the pce must be fully alert and prepared for an ambush. So, you will need to endure for a month, wearing them down. On the day of the wedding, I will storm Ice Seal City!" Zhong Shan said with a glint of cold determination in his eyes.


    "How could I feel wronged? It''s enough that you''reing," Bei Qingsi shook her head, moved.


    Five dayster, in a grand hall of Ice Seal City''s pce, Xuanwu Supreme Gui Shou, Xuanwu Young Master, Jing Xueshen, and Ice Emperor Bing Xuan were gathered. Some of the generals from the weing army, along with Xuan Yan, also arrived at the pce.


    "Is what you said true?" Gui Shou frowned.


    "Every word is true!" Xuan Yan nodded deeply.


    The weing generals also nodded, still showing signs of fear.


    "Zhong Shan is indeed that powerful?" Gui Shou frowned.


    "Perhaps it was the ck-robed man behind him? Could it be Di Xuan Sha?" Jing Xueshen frowned.


    "That''s right. Zhong Shan was only at the Golden Core stage a hundred years ago. How could he have his own ''Heaven'' in such a short time? It must be that his Heavenly Thunder Transformation has integrated the abilities of that ck-robed man," Bing Xuan analyzed immediately.


    Everyone nodded. They were unwilling to believe that Zhong Shan could be at the Heavenly Extreme realm.


    "But it can''t be Di Xuan Sha. He''s being watched by Shen Ya Daojun. How could it be?" Jing Xueshen frowned.


    "Maybe it''s a strong person Zhong Shan found. But in any case, with our forces, we can definitely kill Zhong Shan, especially with ''them'' on our side," Bing Xuan said seriously.


    "Agreed," everyone nodded.


    "Keep everyone on high alert, constantly guarding against Zhong Shan!" Jing Xueshen ordered.


    "Understood!" Bing Xuan nodded.


    "Ancestor, with you here, that''s enough. I don''t want to stay here any longer. I''ll return to Xuanwu Pce," Xuanwu Young Master frowned.


    "Oh? Alright," Gui Shou frowned but nodded.


    "Supreme, I''ll escort the Young Master back," Xuan Yan said.


    "Good," Gui Shou nodded.


    Leaving the others to continue plotting against Zhong Shan, Xuanwu Young Master and Xuan Yan exited the hall and quickly flew out of the city.


    On the road outside the city:


    "Young Master, I don''t want to depend on the Longevity Realm. I wish to follow you!" Xuan Yan said as they reached a secluded spot.


    Xuanwu Young Master looked at Xuan Yan, raising an eyebrow, "Do you intend to betray the Supreme?"


    Among the beast ns, betraying the Supreme was a grave sin. However, Xuan Yan''s words clearly revealed a hint of dissatisfaction.


    "I only think of the Xuanwu n. The Supreme''s lifespan is near its end, and whether he ascends or perishes, the burden of the Xuanwu n will fall on you. I can see that you feel the same helplessness as I do. I can only express my loyalty to you. I hope you can soon shoulder the responsibility of the Xuanwu n," Xuan Yan sighed.

 Chapter 603: The Wedding Crash

    <h4>Chapter 603: The Wedding Crash</h4>


    For over a month, the powerful figures in Ice Seal City had been on high alert, waiting for Zhong Shan to fall into their trap, ready to ambush and kill him. They had been mustering their strength, and the wait felt like punching into cotton��frustrating and unfulfilling.


    In the pce, inside a grand hall, sat several peerless experts. Gui Shou, Nu Qinghui, Bing Xuan, Jing Xueshen, and two other elders from the Water Branch were present. Among them was another individual with golden-yellow skin and an air of arrogance. If Zhong Shan were here, he would immediately recognize him as Wuhuan, the Crow n Supreme, whom he had encountered at the Grand Pill Assembly a few years ago.


    Three Heavenly Extreme realm experts and four Imperial Extreme realm experts, all gathered to ambush Zhong Shan? This was indeed extraordinary. Such a formidable force could challenge a sacrednd or an empire. To mobilize such power just to ambush an Imperial Extreme realm Zhong Shan?


    No, if not for Zhong Shan''s rogue n to neutralize their greatest asset, they would still have the Water Extermination Sword. That would mean the equivalent of four Heavenly Extreme realm experts attacking Zhong Shan. This immense power was unimaginable.


    Their determination to kill Zhong Shan was evident. Zhong Shan''s high-profile actions over the years had drawn the attention of Shen Ya Daojun, prompting such a massive mobilization of forces. Shen Ya Daojun''s boldness was truly remarkable��when he moved, he aimed to shock the world.


    Anyone else, no matter who, would be doomed upon entering this setup.


    "Why hasn''t Zhong Shane yet?" Bing Xuan said with a hint of worry.


    "Based on my analysis of Zhong Shan''s personality, he shoulde," Jing Xueshen also showed a trace of concern.


    "Could he have learned of our strength and been scared off? How will we exin this to Shen Ya Daojun?" a Water Branch elder frowned.


    "Don''t worry, the wedding will proceed. If Zhong Shan doesn''t show up by the end, we''ll storm Tiang Ind together. Who can stand against us? Shen Ya Daojun is keeping an eye on Di Xuan Sha. With our numbers, can''t we destroy a small empire?" Jing Xueshen said sternly.


    Everyone nodded in agreement.


    "Master is right. We''ll wait until after the wedding. However, I need the Daojun''s help to remove the treasure from Bei Qingsi," Bing Xuan said, looking at Nu Qinghui.


    Nu Qinghui, her face still veiled, nodded. "I can do it, but I''ll need three years with it."


    Borrowing it for three years implied that even a Heavenly Extreme realm Daojun wanted to study it, highlighting the treasure''s incredible nature.


    "Thank you, Daojun," Bing Xuan nodded, smiling.


    Wuhuan and Gui Shou remained silent, as this was an internal matter of the Longevity Realm. They were only here to discuss how to deal with Zhong Shan.


    "Three days until the wedding. If Zhong Shan doesn''te by then, I''ll help you retrieve the treasure, and we''ll storm Tiang Ind together," Nu Qinghui said firmly.


    "Understood," everyone nodded.


    After further discussion, the group dispersed.


    Nu Qinghui had just exited the grand hall and was walking down a corridor when she suddenly stopped.


    "Don''t you know it''s impolite to follow someone like this?" Nu Qinghui turned and coldly addressed the distant rock garden.


    Slowly, a figure in a golden robe emerged from the rock garden. It was Wuhuan, the Crow n Supreme.


    "Wuhuan Supreme, what do you want?" Nu Qinghui asked sternly.


    A wicked smile appeared on Wuhuan''s lips as he stared at Nu Qinghui''s beautiful face. Even with the veil, his gaze was invasive and predatory.


    "Nu Qinghui, Gu Shentong is already dead. Are you nning to remain single forever?" Wuhuan sneered.


    Nu Qinghui narrowed her eyes, responding coldly, "What does Gu Shentong''s death have to do with me?"


    "Oh, right. You''ve been reincarnated. Your past self is dead, and this is your current life. Naturally, Gu Shentong has nothing to do with you now. But with your cultivation method, don''t you ever think about finding a Daopanion?" Wuhuan continued.


    "Whether I need a Daopanion or not is none of your business!" Nu Qinghui retorted.


    "How is it not my business? I just happen to need a Daopanion. Why not consider being with me?" Wuhuan smirked wickedly.


    "Hmph, just a feathered beast, and you dare to think you can make a move on me?" Nu Qinghui''s gaze turned icy.


    "You...!" Wuhuan''s anger red at her insult.


    "Out of respect for Shen Ya Daojun, I''ll pretend today''s incident never happened. But if you dare to be so disrespectful again, don''t me me for being rude!" Nu Qinghui''s voice was cold as ice.


    Wuhuan''s face reddened with anger, but he held his tongue.


    After throwing down her warning, Nu Qinghui''s figure blurred and disappeared.


    Wuhuan stared at the spot where Nu Qinghui had vanished, his initial anger transforming into a chilling resolve.


    "Enjoy your arrogance while you can. The day wille when you beg at my feet!" Wuhuan muttered, his robe billowing as he disappeared from sight.


    Three dayster, Emperor Bing Xuan''s grand wedding day arrived! The entire empire celebrated.


    The empress-to-be was a respected figure from the Longevity Realm, a fact that had been the talk of Ice Seal Empire for over half a year.


    The wedding was held at the grand sacrificial square in Ice Seal City.


    A general amnesty was dered, and the popce eagerly watched the event, as this was the first major event since the new emperor took the throne.


    At the sacrificial square, a massive tform had been erected, with a grand hall, the Chao Tian Hall, at its center. Surrounding the tform were numerous pces, with pce attendants bustling about and heavily armed soldiers ensuring the wedding''s security.


    Themoners could only watch from a great distance, observing the distant square.


    At the Chao Tian Hall, many had already gathered. Besides the Heavenly Extreme realm experts, almost all the elders of the Water Branch from the Longevity Realm were present.


    Bing Xuan, dressed in his wedding robes, stood with a sinister smile. Bei Qingsi, with her powers sealed, had been brought here in advance. No one dared approach her.


    Bing Xuan looked at Bei Qingsi, his face twisted with a malicious grin, while Bei Qingsi, showing no signs of struggle, sneered coldly at him.


    "I told you, you will marry me. Zhong Shan is just a cowardly fool. He won''t daree today! Even if you sent someone to inform him, he wouldn''t dare show up!" Bing Xuanughed.


    "Cowardly? You are a thousand times more cowardly than him. Do you dare to stand alone before Zhong Shan? You don''t. You''re just a rodent!" Bei Qingsi scoffed.


    Her mocking words unsettled Bing Xuan.


    "No matter. He didn''te. Even if he did, he would be doomed. As for you? Hmph, aren''t you an ice queen? After I''m done with you, I''ll let everyone have their way with you. Let''s see how icy you are then!" Bing Xuan spat venomously.


    Hearing Bing Xuan''s vile words, Bei Qingsi did not get angry. Instead, she smiled coldly, as if looking at a dead man.


    Seeing her expression, Bing Xuan grew increasingly agitated.


    Jing Xueshen, who had been observing silently, noticed Bing Xuan''s slight loss ofposure and raised an eyebrow. He then moved to the main entrance of the Chao Tian Hall.


    "Time for the wedding����������������������������������������������������"


    Jing Xueshen, representing the Longevity Realm and being Bing Xuan''s master, naturally served as the officiant for the wedding. With his announcement, the ceremony officially began.


    "Woooo����������������������������������������������������"


    Below the Chao Tian Hall, countless horn yers blew long, solemn notes, officially starting the wedding ceremony.


    Inside the Chao Tian Hall, three Heavenly Extreme realm experts, Gui Shou, Wuhuan, and Nu Qinghui, sat cross-legged.


    Suddenly, all three opened their eyes simultaneously.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    As if responding to their sensing, a massive gate in the distance shattered under a tremendous force. A cloud of dust enveloped the area.


    The pure destructive power disrupted everyone''s mood, causing even the horn yers to stop and look toward the distant gate at the edge of the square.


    At the entrance of Chao Tian Hall, Jing Xueshen and the others showed satisfied smiles, their eyes gleaming. Bei Qingsi watched the dust with a mixture of happiness and worry.


    As the dust settled, it revealed a lone man with a de. Zhong Shan!


    Zhong Shan, alone with his de, stood at the shattered gate. The guards at the gate had been knocked unconscious by the residual force of his entrance.


    Someone was causing trouble? The officials of Ice Seal Empire looked incredulous. Who dared to cause such disruption?


    Many generals led their troops towards Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan ignored the approaching troops and walked towards the Chao Tian Hall.


    Zhong Shan hade to crash the wedding!


    At the entrance of the Chao Tian Hall, the experts initially looked at Zhong Shan with surprise and delight. After waiting nearly two months, he had finally arrived. Their previous anxiety turned into a sense of relief. Then, almost everyone frowned.


    Just one person? Zhong Shan came alone?


    Was he seeking death?


    Countless soldiers surrounded Zhong Shan, but it was as if an invisible force pushed them away. Zhong Shan''s power was unfathomable!


    Bing Xuan stood at the entrance of Chao Tian Hall and waved his hand, causing the soldiers to make way for Zhong Shan to approach.


    Zhong Shan looked only at Bei Qingsi, his eyes filled with confidence and pride. In the distance, Bei Qingsi smiled gently.


    "Zhong Shan, you are incredibly bold!" Bing Xuan shouted coldly.


    Hearing Bing Xuan''s voice, Zhong Shan turned his gaze to him, his eyes growing cold before looking up at the Longevity Realm experts.


    "Who is Jing Xueshen? Come out!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    Zhong Shan''s shout echoed through the sacrificial square, causing everyone''s ears to ring. Those with lower cultivation felt a chill run through them, as his voice was filled with a bone-chilling coldness.

 Chapter 604: Exceptionally Dominant

    <h4>Chapter 604: Exceptionally Dominant</h4>


    Zhong Shan''s shout echoed through the entire sacrificial square like a thunderp, causing countless ears to ring.


    In everyone''s impression, Zhong Shan was a highly intelligent figure, his calctions nearly demonic, capable of finding a way out even in the direst situations. But how dare hee alone? And so boldly? Suddenly, nearly everyone recalled Xuan Yan''s earlier report about Zhong Shan possibly possessing a "Heaven" domain.


    "Senior, what is Zhong Shan''s cultivation?" Jing Xueshen whispered, frowning.


    Though Jing Xueshen''s voice was low, the three Heavenly Extreme realm experts in the hall behind him heard it clearly.


    "Imperial Extreme realm, Tenth Level," Gui Shou answered.


    There was no other voice in the hall, implying the others agreed with Gui Shou''s assessment.


    Imperial Extreme realm, Tenth Level?


    With this confirmation, Jing Xueshen smirked at Zhong Shan. He really was at the Tenth Level of the Imperial Extreme realm? Such audacity! Did he think he could bluff them with such cultivation? Such boldness was why Shen Ya Daojun was so determined to eliminate him!


    But now that they knew his true strength, no matter how eloquent he was, he could not change his fate today.


    "I am Jing Xueshen! Today is a grand wedding for the Longevity Realm. Zhong Shan, as an emperor, why have youe to disrupt it? Do you seek enmity with the Longevity Realm?" Jing Xueshen stepped forward and shouted.


    With Jing Xueshen speaking, the others remained silent.


    "Jing Xueshen? Hmph, are you the one who ambushed Qingsi and sealed her cultivation?" Zhong Shan stared sharply at Jing Xueshen.


    Seeing Zhong Shan maintain his demeanor despite being at the Imperial Extreme realm, Jing Xueshen felt annoyed.


    "So what if I did?" Jing Xueshen retorted.


    "That''s all I need to know," Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold, as if looking at a dead man.


    "Will youe to your death, or shall Ie to you?" Zhong Shan brandished his de.


    "Ha ha ha ha ha����������������������������������������������������"


    Jing Xueshen burst into wildughter.


    "Facing death, you are still so arrogant. You came here alone, and even I alone am enough to make sure you never return!" Jing Xueshenughed.


    Jing Xueshen''s disdain was justified. Imperial Extreme realm, Tenth Level? Jing Xueshen himself was at the Eighth Level of the Imperial Extreme realm! The gap was absolute. The oue of such a sh was beyond doubt.


    Laughing, Jing Xueshen floated down from the Chao Tian Hall.


    With a wave from Bing Xuan, all the soldiers retreated to a distance.


    Jing Xueshen believed he could handle this on his own.


    All eyes were on the square. Countless soldiers, themoners outside the sacrificial square, the three Heavenly Extreme realm experts in the Chao Tian Hall, the Longevity Realm members at the hall''s entrance, and Bei Qingsi��all watched Zhong Shan with different emotions.


    Among them, only Bei Qingsi worried for Zhong Shan.


    Jing Xueshen, d in white, floated down slowly, not even bothering to draw a weapon.


    Because Jing Xueshen knew that in the face of absolute power, all wisdom was meaningless. Zhong Shan was just an Imperial Extreme realm expert. Even at the Tenth Level, he was still just an Imperial Extreme realm expert. Before the gap of the Imperial Extreme realm, he was nothing more than a child.


    "Are youing down to die?" Zhong Shan asked with a strange smile.


    Had no one told him about my strength? When I was at the Fifth Level of the Imperial Extreme realm, I defeated Prince Chong Tian. Had no one informed Jing Xueshen? Is he reallying down to die?


    Jing Xueshen hadn''t heard of the incident with Prince Chong Tian; otherwise, he would have never stepped down. Prince Chong Tian''s cultivation wasparable to, if not stronger than, his own.


    "Hmph? Seeking death? A mere Imperial Extreme realm dares to speak such arrogant words. Your reputation in Divine Continent is indeed grand, but it''s all about your intelligence. In the face of absolute strength, intelligence means nothing. Today is your death day. In front of everyone here, I won''t bully you; I''ll let you make three moves!" Jing Xueshen arrogantly dered.


    Jing Xueshen''s arrogance sealed his fate. Allowing Zhong Shan three moves? If the topmost Imperial Extreme realm expert said that, it might not mean much, but for Jing Xueshen to say it?


    Zhong Shan looked at Jing Xueshen not with hatred but with a peculiar and bizarre expression. Letting him have three moves?


    Moreover, Jing Xueshen''s loud promation spread all around, even reaching themoners outside the sacrificial square.


    The people watched eagerly, excited for the next scene, whether or not it matched their expectations. The thrilling moment had begun.


    Zhong Shan wasted no words. He drew his long de.


    "Celestial Rule! Hundred and Twenty Waves!"


    Zhong Shan drew his de in response to Jing Xueshen''s challenge, shing down fiercely. As the de descended, a thousand-zhang long de aura emerged, carrying an unstoppable force toward Jing Xueshen. The "Hundred and Twenty Waves" technique could even shake space��a supreme strike that had once suppressed Prince Chong Tian, even when he was fully prepared.


    As the terrifying de descended, nearly all onlookers'' mouths formed an ''o'' shape in astonishment.


    Locked in by the terrifying de aura, Jing Xueshen''s expression changed drastically. Gone was his earlierposure. In a panic, he hurriedly drew a long sword to meet the attack.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The strongest collision of de and sword resounded.


    The terrifying impact forced Jing Xueshen down a meter into the ground, and the force he diverted caused massive spiderweb cracks to appear in the earth. Countless rocks were sent flying.


    Around the square, nearly everyone felt the ground shake, almost causing them to fall. Numerous buildings copsed, and the distantmoners felt a dull pain in their eardrums.


    Everyone from the Longevity Realm was drenched in cold sweat. Was this really the Imperial Extreme realm?


    Inside the swirling smoke, Jing Xueshen''s state was pitiful. Zhong Shan''s strike was too powerful. In his haste, Jing Xueshen couldn''t muster his full strength. His well-refined eighth-grade treasure sword nowy dim and dull. Most of his clothes were sted apart, exposing skin covered in countlesscerations. Blood poured from his wrist, and blood trickled from his eyes, ears, nose, and mouth.


    Jing Xueshen''s eyes widened in disbelief. Was this really the Tenth Level of the Imperial Extreme realm? Go to hell! This was the Tenth Level of the Imperial Extreme realm? An uncontroble fear gripped his heart. He felt an overwhelming frustration; if he hadn''t been so arrogant, he wouldn''t be in this state.


    The moment Zhong Shan''s powerful strike took effect, the three Heavenly Extreme realm experts inside the Chao Tian Hall simultaneously opened their eyes and stood up, shocked. How could this be?


    They couldn''t be mistaken. Under their divine senses, Zhong Shan''s cultivation was indeed only at the Tenth Level of the Imperial Extreme realm. But that strike just now?


    As the three were still in shock, Gui Shou''s eyes widened in realization.


    "Not good!" Gui Shou shouted, turning to rush outside.


    Chapter 604: Exceptionally Dominant (Continued)


    Outside, Zhong Shan''s second strike followed closely.


    "Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Art, Sixth Level!"


    "Celestial Rule! Three Hundred Waves!"


    Zhong Shan''s eyes glowed with intensity as he swung his great de, "Nightmare," once more.


    Locked onto Jing Xueshen, there was no escape! This powerful strike created far more significant space ripples than the previous one, shing towards Jing Xueshen with unstoppable force.


    If the earlier ripples were like a pebble tossed into a pond, this was akin to a boulder crashing into it.


    The terrifying momentum bore down on Jing Xueshen, who watched in utter horror. He had never imagined Zhong Shan could be this powerful. Jing Xueshen''s earlier arrogance had turned into regret and despair.


    At this moment, even if Jing Xueshen could counterattack with all his might, it seemed futile. He could only unleash his strongest secret technique in a desperate bid for survival, praying that the three Heavenly Extreme realm experts inside Chao Tian Hall would save him.


    As Jing Xueshen faced the devastating de, he felt a wave of regret. If there were a next time, he vowed never to underestimate his opponent. But would there be a next time?


    Gui Shou had rushed out to save Jing Xueshen, and seeing this, Nu Qinghui and Wuhuan felt reassured. But in the next moment, both widened their eyes in shock.


    Gui Shou suddenly stopped in his tracks. In front of him, a figure in a ck robe appeared out of thin air, blocking his path.


    Gui Shou was taken aback because he realized the figure before him exuded an aura simr to his own.


    A Heavenly Extreme realm expert?


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    Zhong Shan''s "Celestial Rule! Three Hundred Waves!" struck Jing Xueshen.


    The impact was even more devastating than the previous strike, shaking the entire Ice Seal City.


    Countless onlookers watched, their eyes drawn to Zhong Shan''s de. This one strike captured everyone''s attention.


    The de''s path left six remaining pces in the sacrificial square, the rest reduced to rubble. A cloud of dust shrouded Zhong Shan, and when it cleared, Jing Xueshen''s presence had vanished. All that remained was a deep chasm, a canyon-like scar on the earth, stretching a thousand zhang long. Near ity a broken sword and a pool of blood.


    Zhong Shan''s strike was overpowering! Almost everyone gasped in shock.


    Staring at Zhong Shan, who was poised with his de in mid-air, the crowd gulped in fear. Zhong Shan''s dominant image was deeply imprinted in their minds, their hearts racing. Only Bei Qingsi showed pure joy on her face.


    After the strike, silence reigned. People were stunned by Zhong Shan''s overwhelming strength and noticed an unusual scene to the east of Chao Tian Hall.


    An elderly man with white hair and white robes hovered in the air, facing off against a figure cloaked in ck robes. The tension between them was palpable.

 Chapter 605: Commander of the Ninth Legion

    <h4>Chapter 605: Commander of the Ninth Legion</h4>


    Jing Xueshen was dead. Ate-stage Imperial Extreme realm expert,pletely obliterated by Zhong Shan''s two strikes?


    At the entrance of the Chao Tian Hall, the people from the Longevity Realm looked utterly shocked. The Water Branch of the Longevity Realm had eight elders, all Imperial Extreme realm experts. Yet, one of these formidable elders had been killed so quickly?


    Jing Xueshen wasn''t the strongest among the eight elders of the Water Branch, but he wasn''t the weakest either. But to be killed in just two strikes? Even the strongest Imperial Extreme realm experts of the Water Branch wouldn''t be able to kill Jing Xueshen in two strikes. Yet Zhong Shan had done it.


    People realized that Jing Xueshen''s downfall was due to his underestimation of Zhong Shan. But the sheer dominance disyed by Zhong Shan was overwhelming.


    As soon as Zhong Shan had struck down Jing Xueshen with his first blow, an elder from the Longevity Realm quietly left the Chao Tian Hall. Sensing the dangerous turn of events, this elder acted decisively and swiftly.


    Within moments, the elder arrived at the Imperial Pce''s "Sword Storage Hall." Just as the elder arrived, the booming sound of Zhong Shan''s second strike echoed through the pce. A quick divine sense probe confirmed the elder''s fears��Jing Xueshen was dead.


    Not daring to waste any time, the elder quickly entered the hall. At the entrance stood several Imperial Extreme realm guards from the Longevity Realm.


    "Greetings, Elder!" they greeted respectfully.


    The elder ignored them, heading straight into the hall.


    Gazing at the menacing Water Extermination Sword, the elder took a deep breath.


    He performed a hand seal.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The white smoke surrounding the Water Extermination Sword slowly dissipated as the Longevity Realm Water Branch''s restriction was lifted. With the white smoke gone, the blue and ck smoke began to stir.


    This disturbance alerted the other two experts who had set the remaining restrictions.


    Gui Shou, who was confronting the ck-robed figure, performed a hand gesture, lifting the blue restriction. Blue smoke swirled, leaving only the ck restriction.


    Inside the Chao Tian Hall, Nu Qinghui also performed a strange hand seal.


    "Whoosh����������������������������������������������������"


    The final ck smoke vanished. The three major restrictions, the three great locks, were all undone.


    The Longevity Realm elder smirked. Zhong Shan, you''re doomed! He reached out to grab the Water Extermination Sword.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The moment his hand touched the hilt, he was thrown back. A plume of dark smoke rose from his hand.


    He shook his hand, dispersing the smoke, and stared in disbelief. What was happening?


    Around the Water Extermination Sword, more ck smoke began to swirl, forming a massive skull-shaped figure��ominous and eerie.


    "What is this?" the elder eximed.


    The Imperial Extreme realm guards quickly entered the hall, witnessing the smoke around the Water Extermination Sword.


    "Another restriction? How can this be?" one of the guards shouted in shock.


    The people from the Longevity Realm looked incredulous. What was this? Another restriction? How could there be another one?


    "Everyone, attack the restriction with all your might!" the eldermanded.


    "Yes!" they responded immediately.


    Each took out their magical treasures, and almost simultaneously, theyunched attacks at the restriction around the Water Extermination Sword.


    Chapter 605: Commander of the Ninth Legion (Continued)


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    Thebined attack of the experts resulted in a massive explosion at the pce. The Sword Storage Hall was shattered, and the ground where the Water Extermination Sword was embedded erupted.


    However, the sword itself floated in mid-air, surrounded by countless skull-shaped smoke wisps. It hadn''t moved an inch.


    Seeing the skull-shaped restriction, the experts gaped in shock. What was this?


    This was clearly a Heavenly Extreme realm restriction. Only such a powerful restriction could thwart theirbined efforts!


    "What''s going on? Who was here before?" the elder fumed, his face flushed with anger.


    The Water Extermination Sword, the most powerful divine sword of the Water Branch, had been rendered immovable. This severely handicapped them. If the sword were in his hand, it would rival even Nu Qinghui and the others. What was happening? Who could exin this?


    "Reporting to the elder, only Bei Qingsi has entered the Sword Storage Hall in the past two months," a guard reported.


    "Bei Qingsi? It must be her! That ungrateful wretch! Who avenged her father? And now she turns against us?" The elder''s face twisted in anger.


    Calling Bei Qingsi ungrateful was ironic. The help she received was only to exploit her bloodline inheritance. If they hadn''t pushed her so hard, even forcing her sacrifice, would she have allied with Zhong Shan and turned against the Longevity Realm?


    "Elder!" The Imperial Extreme realm experts looked at the elder, awaiting orders.


    "Guard the Water Extermination Sword! Let no one near it. I''m returning to the Chao Tian Hall!" the eldermanded.


    "Yes!" the experts responded promptly.


    The elder left, his earlier confidence reced with frustration. The feeling of having one''s weapon locked away by the enemy was infuriating. However, he wasn''t foolish. Before leaving, he re-applied the Water Branch''s restriction through a secret technique. If he couldn''t use the sword, no one else would either.


    At the sacrificial square, people''s initial shock at Zhong Shan''s strike shifted as they followed the gazes of the Imperial Extreme realm experts, all looking skyward at the confrontation between two figures.


    One was dressed in ck, the other in white.


    The white-haired, white-robed elder was none other than Xuanwu Supreme, Gui Shou.


    Initiallying out to rescue Jing Xueshen, Gui Shou was stopped by the sudden appearance of the ck-robed figure.


    Who was this?


    Gui Shou was a Heavenly Extreme realm expert, yet someone had managed to stop him? This could only mean one thing��the ck-robed figure was also a Heavenly Extreme realm expert.


    Everyone was stunned. Heavenly Extreme realm experts were the strongest beings in the world. Who was this ck-robed figure?


    "Who are you?" Gui Shou asked sternly.


    Gui Shou had probed the figure''s aura but didn''t recognize him. Who was this person? Why had he never encountered him before?


    Who could Zhong Shan have found to help him?


    Di Xuan Sha? Impossible. He was being watched by Shen Ya Daojun.


    Nie Fancheng? Wu Jiutian? Unlikely. This wasn''t their aura. Gui Shou sensed an extremely dark energy in this figure''s aura, something he had never encountered before.


    When did Divine Continent produce such a powerful expert?


    The ck-robed figure was none other than the Skeleton King, Wang Ku, who hade with Zhong Shan.


    "How impolite! Before asking someone their name, shouldn''t you introduce yourself first?" Wang Ku said coldly.


    Gui Shou was momentarily taken aback. Impolite? Who in the world didn''t know him? Anyone with some cultivation should have heard of him. This mysterious ck-robed person was acting high and mighty in front of him.


    "I am Xuanwu Supreme, Gui Shou. May I ask your name and why you are involving yourself in this matter?" Gui Shou asked sternly.


    Everyone who heard Gui Shou''s words was shocked. Xuanwu Supreme? A Heavenly Extreme realm expert?


    "An equal? I dare not im that. My name is Wang Ku. As for why I am here..." Wang Ku said indifferently.


    "Wang Ku!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    "Present!" Wang Ku responded.


    Everyone was stunned. "Present?" This ck-robed figure, capable of confronting Gui Shou, was clearly a Heavenly Extreme realm expert. Yet, he was Zhong Shan''s subordinate?


    A few people pped themselves in disbelief.


    "This isn''t a dream? This is real?"


    "Ridiculous, a Heavenly Extreme realm expert as Zhong Shan''s subordinate? How is that possible? No matter how formidable Zhong Shan has been, this is too much!"


    "This must be a trick! He must be an impostor!"


    "Impostor, my foot! Try finding a Heavenly Extreme realm impostor yourself!"


    ...People voiced their disbelief, finding the situation incredible.


    "I hereby officially appoint you, Wang Ku, as themander of the Ninth Legion of the Great Zheng Dynasty!" Zhong Shan proimed solemnly.


    Zhong Shan wasn''t just appointing a powerful figure randomly. His grand n epassed not just humans and ghosts but also the skeleton n. Wang Ku was the ideal leader for the skeleton n.


    "I ept the appointment!" Wang Ku responded seriously.


    There was no need to question Wang Ku''s background further. It was clear he was themander of the Great Zheng Dynasty''s legion. Trying to suppress him through words or power was futile.


    A legionmander? A Heavenly Extreme realm expert? Everyone felt a strange sense of awe. Which empire could boast such audacity? Using a Heavenly Extreme realm expert as a general? The Great Zheng Dynasty, though a third-rate empire, possessed a strength that was now undeniably terrifying.


    People shifted their gazes from Wang Ku to Zhong Shan, recognizing him as a monarch of a new caliber. The events of today would undoubtedly spread throughout Divine Continent.


    Gui Shou frowned, clearly filled with anger.


    At this moment, another figure slowly walked out of the Chao Tian Hall. A seductive woman d in ck silk.


    This woman could only be described as enchanting. Even with a veil covering her face, she mesmerized the crowd. Her body was so perfect that it defied imagination. Normally, the most beautiful things would elicit admiration and envy, but seeing her sparked a deep, primal desire in almost everyone, causing their throats to dry.


    It was as if she possessed an innate charm that could arouse anyone''s desires. This allure wasn''t just directed at men; even some women felt their hearts race upon seeing her.


    Aside from those with exceptionally strong wills, everyone else looked at her with longing.


    An otherworldly beauty of catastrophic potential! Nu Qinghui!

 Chapter 606: Duel with the Heavenly Extreme Realm!

    <h4>Chapter 606: Duel with the Heavenly Extreme Realm!</h4>


    Nu Qinghui emerged, another Heavenly Extreme realm expert!


    Even with her face veiled, Nu Qinghui exuded an irresistible allure, a mesmerizing pull that deepened with every nce. She was the infamous femme fatale, the most beautiful cmity known across the world. Her seductive presence was enough to drive countless men mad.


    However, the experts at the entrance of Chao Tian Hall knew that her allure was not just skin-deep; her power was also extraordinarily formidable. A Heavenly Extreme realm expert, her unique constitution made her even stronger than others at the same level.


    As Nu Qinghui stepped out, she fixed her gaze on Zhong Shan in the distance.


    This young man had grown too quickly! A hundred years ago, when she investigated him due to Nian Youyou, he was only at the Golden Core stage. Now, in such a short time, he had reached the Tenth Level of the Imperial Extreme realm? He could even easily y Imperial Extreme realm experts?


    His growth was too fast; his luck was too great! Not only his own strength, but the empire he founded was also incredibly powerful. Now, his newly appointed legionmander was a Heavenly Extreme realm expert, allied with the Dali Heavenly Dynasty, supported by the Wolf n, and had unclear rtions with both Nian Youyou and Zi Xun. It was as if he was favored by the heavens, carrying the fortune of the world.


    But no matter how strong he was, he couldn''t contend with the Longevity Realm. The foundation of the Longevity Realm was beyond his reach, an unshakeable force in this small world. The Longevity Realm was the most invincible existence!


    Nu Qinghui''s eyes turned cold as she stared at Zhong Shan. With Gui Shou being blocked by Wang Ku, she had to deal with Zhong Shan herself.


    Kill! The killing intent in Nu Qinghui''s eyes intensified. After killing Zhong Shan, she didn''t care about Zi Xun''s reaction. As for Nian Youyou''s feelings, they were irrelevant; she had already been sent to the underworld. As long as Zhong Shan was destroyed, his soul dispersed, he wouldn''t enter the underworld.


    At that moment, the Longevity Realm elder who had tried to retrieve the Water Extermination Sword returned to the Chao Tian Hall.


    "Where''s the Water Extermination Sword?" another elder asked, frowning.


    "He''s the one who set another restriction!" the elder pointed angrily at Wang Ku, who was blocking Gui Shou.


    Everyone was momentarily stunned, then looked at Wang Ku with frustration. Only Bei Qingsi showed a hint of joy.


    "Daojun, as per Shen Ya Daojun''s orders, let us handle this. If we cannot, we will seek your assistance!" the recently returned elder said, visibly angry.


    Nu Qinghui gave him a strange look, nodded, and didn''t step forward.


    Another elder also nodded to him. The elder then flew into the air.


    "Ice Mountain Fall, Snow God Extinguishes the World!" the elder shouted.


    Immediately, nearly five thousand people dressed in white flew out from the remaining pces, each holding a white sword, surrounding the elder in the center.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    As the eldernded, a gigantic ice mountain, three thousand zhang tall, crashed to the ground. The bone-chilling cold instantly froze countless soldiers and caused snow to fall from the sky. The sudden drop in temperature made the onlookers shiver, retreating quickly.


    In just three breaths, the ground was covered in ice, with heavy snow continuously falling. Thend was frozen for three thousand miles, snow imprints covering the sky.


    The depth of the Longevity Realm''s foundation was evident. The Water Branch, even without the Water Extermination Sword, still possessed this unparalleled treasure. The falling ice mountain sealed three thousand miles ofnd.


    This ice mountain was only the base of a grand formation. All around, snow covered the area, and six thousand experts from the Longevity Realm entered, aiming to trap and kill Zhong Shan.


    The terrifying snowfall gradually enveloped Zhong Shan, descending like an avnche��fast and terrifying.


    "The Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation? The legendary formation that rivals the Ten Suns Array?" someone knowledgeable eximed in horror.


    "Is the Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation really that powerful?" another person asked.


    "Of course, it''s said that the central ice mountain is an immortal artifact. Do you think it''s strong?"


    "An immortal artifact? Impossible, are there really such things in the world?"


    "You don''t know much, do you?"


    ... Countless onlookers debated the scene. Whether the ice mountain was truly an immortal artifact or not, one thing was certain: it was incredibly powerful. Even Zhong Shan felt a sudden pang of unease.


    Wang Ku and Gui Shou both turned to look at the immense ice mountain, now obscured by endless snow. All that was visible was the vast snowy expanse and the unending snowfall.


    If the Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation was as renowned as the Ten Suns Array, it was undoubtedly formidable. The Water Branch of the Longevity Realm was exceptionally strong, with treasures like Bei Qingsi''s white jade statue, the Water Extermination Sword, and the Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation. If one branch had this much, how much more did the other five branches possess?


    Zhong Shan nced briefly at the snow-covered ice mountain, then turned his attention back to Nu Qinghui at the entrance of the Chao Tian Hall.


    "Zhong Shan, prepare to die!" came the enraged voice of the elder from within the Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation.


    Since the moment Jing Xueshen died, the elder had sensed things were going wrong. With the Water Extermination Sword sealed, the elder no longer held back, quickly deploying his trump card, the immortal artifact that had been dormant for over ten thousand years, to set up the Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation!


    Like the Ten Suns Array, it could trap even a Heavenly Extreme realm expert, though the key figures differed. The Ten Suns Array required ten Imperial Extreme realm experts and ten three-legged Golden Crows, while the Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation needed one Imperial Extreme realm expert and six thousandbined-stage experts.


    The formation brought an avnche. Its immense power rivaled that of a Heavenly Extreme realm expert''s assault. Yet Zhong Shan merely smirked coldly, which infuriated the elder even more.


    "Whoosh"


    A strange sound echoed, and everyone looked up to see a massive tower descending from the sky. The tower stood four thousand zhang tall, radiating millions of golden rays, andnded within the snowy expanse.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The ground trembled, and a surge of golden power scattered the snow in a wide area.


    "The Qi Ling Tower?" Nu Qinghui''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "The Qi Ling Tower? What''s that?" Bing Xuan immediately asked.


    "The treasure of the Great Ming Temple, the Qi Ling Tower!" Nu Qinghui frowned.


    "The Great Ming Temple?" Bing Xuan had clearly never heard of it.


    "You''ll find out in time!" Nu Qinghui clearly did not want to borate.


    The sudden appearance of the Qi Ling Tower created an imposing presence, matching the snow-covered ice mountain. Its powerful aura challenged the distant ice mountain.


    "Want my father to die? You''ll have to get past me first!"


    A booming voice echoed from within the Qi Ling Tower. It was Zhong Shan''s adopted son, Zhong Tian, his voice resonating like a great bell, echoing through the snowy expanse.


    "Hum����������������������������������������������������"


    A powerful Buddhist chant emanated from within the Qi Ling Tower. The sound was so strong that it caused the hearts and blood of the Longevity Realm disciples to churn. Waves of golden ripples spread across the snowy expanse, shaking the entire formation.


    "There are many monks inside the tower!" a spectator eximed from afar.


    "Indeed, there are monks on every level."


    "Is this Zhong Shan''s reinforcement?"


    "How many reinforcements does Zhong Shan have?"


    ... The crowd buzzed with discussions.


    "Who are you?" the elder within the Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation shouted.


    "The one blocking you!" came Zhong Tian''s voice from within the tower.


    The Qi Ling Tower had the power to back this up. Its golden waves disrupted the formation, preventing it from trapping Zhong Shan any longer.


    Zhong Shan looked up at the high tform.


    "Nu Qinghui Daojun!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    "It seems Shen Ya Daojun''s calctions were correct. The Water Branch alone cannot stop you!" Nu Qinghui said calmly.


    Hearing this, Bing Xuan and another Water Branch elder''s faces darkened. But it was true��the Water Branch alone could not harm Zhong Shan.


    "I don''t want to be your enemy, and I hope you won''t stop me!" Zhong Shan said seriously.


    Zhong Shan''s reluctance to fight Nu Qinghui stemmed from his ties with Zi Xun and Nian Youyou, not from ack of confidence.


    "The Realm Lord''s order is final. Unless I am defeated, I will not stop. Opposing the Longevity Realm only leads to death!" Nu Qinghui replied coldly.


    "I have never sought conflict with the Longevity Realm. It is you who refuse to let go! Enough talk. If you believe you can stop me, then try!" Zhong Shan said, flying upward. He sensed Shen Ya Daojun''s determination. With Gui Shou and Nu Qinghuiing out of the Chao Tian Hall, yet his divine sense unable to prate it, there had to be more threats inside. He needed to rescue Bei Qingsi quickly.


    Nu Qinghuiughed, her smile mocking.


    "With just you?" she scoffed.


    Zhong Shan ignored her, flying high into the sky.


    "Hmph!" Nu Qinghui snorted.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    A thunderous sound echoed as Nu Qinghui struck out with her palm. A Heavenly Extreme realm expert''s power far exceeded Zhong Shan''s expectations. The strike sent Zhong Shan flying.


    In mid-air, Zhong Shan''s eyes widened. This was the power of a Heavenly Extreme realm expert? To swat him away like a fly?


    A Heavenly Extreme realm expert possessed their own "Heaven." A single palm strike contained the essence ofws, carrying the might of the heavens and earth. Despite pushing his power to the limit, Zhong Shan found himself utterly outmatched.


    If Zhong Shan''s strength was only at this level, it wasn''t just that he was outmatched; he had no chance of resistance.


    The Heavenly Extreme realm was incredibly powerful!

 Chapter 607: Body of the Exchange Cauldron

    <h4>Chapter 607: Body of the Exchange Cauldron</h4>


    Nu Qinghui''s seemingly simple palm strike had sent Zhong Shan flying!


    Although Zhong Shan was only at the Tenth Level of the Imperial Extreme realm, his disyed strength was undeniably at the Imperial Extreme realm level. Yet, even with such power, he was so easily knocked away by Nu Qinghui.


    One palm strike? Just one? The gap between the Heavenly Extreme realm and the Imperial Extreme realm was truly immense!


    Despite being sent flying, Zhong Shan wasn''t significantly harmed. The Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Art primarily focused on body strengthening, with the power boost being a secondary effect.


    After being pushed back, Zhong Shan managed to stop himself mid-air.


    But just as he stabilized, an overwhelming aura surged toward him, forcing him to retreat further. This aura carried a strong sense of threat.


    Reaching the edge of the Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation, where the formation''s effect weakened, Zhong Shan''s presence dispersed the surrounding snowstorm.


    As he steadied himself again, Nu Qinghui suddenly appeared before him.


    A look of shock shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes. Even with the strength of an Imperial Extreme realm expert, he waspletely outmatched by a Heavenly Extreme realm expert. He was being toyed with.


    "I told you, with just you?" Nu Qinghui sneered.


    Zhong Shan remained calm. He hadn''t yet revealed his true power. He had the unbeatable Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, which had grown exponentially stronger after devouring the brain-eating beast. Zhong Shan believed that once unleashed, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail would at least defeat Nu Qinghui, if not achieve invincibility.


    "With just me! You can''t hurt me!" Zhong Shan dered, staring at Nu Qinghui.


    Indeed, Nu Qinghui''s powerful palm strike had only sent him flying without injuring him. Zhong Shan''s body, now at the sixth level of the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Art, could rival the physical toughness of dragon ns.


    Nu Qinghui sneered but didn''t refute his im. She had also been startled by Zhong Shan''s physical defense. Perhaps his defense was approaching that of the ancient Gu Shentong!


    Thinking of Gu Shentong, Nu Qinghui''s eyes turned cold.


    "Hmm?" Zhong Shan noticed something strange.


    The stone ground beneath him suddenly softened. Looking down, Zhong Shan saw that the ground had turned pitch ck, like viscous mud, eerily shifting and pulling at him, trying to drag him down.


    Swamp? In a short time, the entire area around Zhong Shan had turned into a swamp.


    Far away, countless onlookers widened their eyes in shock. A swamp? Where did ite from? What kind of formation was this?


    Formation? No, this was Nu Qinghui''s doing.


    The swamp was bizarre. The ck mud constantly entangled Zhong Shan. When he tried to fly, the mud exerted a tremendous force, holding him down. Using his internal energy to shatter the mud proved ineffective as the mud dispersed the force, rendering most of it useless, and only a small part acted on the mud, which rippled and spread the force evenly.


    How could this be? Even the techniques specializing in the Ze Bei Cang Sheng couldn''t achieve this effect!


    Zhong Shan felt that Nu Qinghui had somehow merged with the swamp.


    He shed downward with his great de.


    A terrifying strike unleashed a massive de aura.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The de''s immense power cut through the ck mud, creating a deep gash. However, the mud quickly flowed back, closing the wound as if it had never been cut. Zhong Shan''s expression turned grim. This wasn''t just an ordinary swamp; it had a life of its own, reflecting Nu Qinghui''s overwhelming power.


    Nu Qinghui''s smile grew colder. "You''re outmatched, Zhong Shan. The swamp is a manifestation of my power. Your resistance is futile."


    Zhong Shan''s mind raced. He had to find a way to counter this overwhelming power. The swamp continued to pull at him, relentless and unyielding. His eyes narrowed as he prepared for the next move, knowing that this battle would push him to his limits.


    The sh between them was not just a test of strength but also a battle of wits and resilience. The oue of this duel would determine the fate of many, and Zhong Shan was determined not to fall.


    Chapter 607: Body of the Exchange Cauldron (Continued)


    "Whoosh����������������������������������������������������"


    Before the de aura could reach the swamp, countless streams of ck mud shot into the sky from all directions, frantically enveloping Zhong Shan. In an instant, the area within a diameter of a hundred miles had turned into a massive mud swamp, with Nu Qinghui and Zhong Shan at its center.


    Onlookers saw a colossal mud mountain rising from the ground and quickly epassing the area, leaving nothing visible except the giant mud mountain.


    Mud cascaded down the mountain, and in no time, it ttened into a swampy in. But the two figures within had disappeared.


    "Gone?"


    "They''re beneath the swamp!" someone suddenly shouted.


    Everyone turned their gaze to the center of the swamp, where waves of ripples indicated a fierce battle beneath.


    Indeed, Zhong Shan and Nu Qinghui were submerged in the swamp. The ck mud had a mysterious power, gradually seeping through Zhong Shan''s protective aura, clinging to his body like a cocoon.


    On the other side, Nu Qinghui watched Zhong Shan with a satisfied smile. The mud dispersed around her, making her seem like the master of the swamp.


    "So, can I handle you now? This ck mud is my special creation. Each passing moment, its binding power doubles. No matter how strong your body, it will crush you into pulp. It won''t even spare your soul," Nu Qinghui said coldly.


    Zhong Shan struggled violently, creating waves in the mud.


    "So, you possess the Exchange Cauldron body? No wonder you can use the Exchange Binding Scripture," Zhong Shan said in surprise.


    Nu Qinghui''s pupils contracted.


    "How could you know?" Nu Qinghui''s eyes were filled with disbelief, as if this were her greatest secret.


    "Why wouldn''t I know?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Facing death, and you can stillugh? This technique was passed from the Great Thousand World to the underworld a thousand years ago. You know it too. Are you from the underworld?" Nu Qinghui stared at Zhong Shan.


    "What do you think?" Zhong Shan smiled faintly, as if stalling for time.


    Zhong Shan did indeed know this technique. Because of his shadow body''s cultivation of the Ze Bei Cang Sheng, a simr technique, he had once consulted Mr. Shi. Mr. Shi had shared tales about the Exchange Binding Scripture, a powerful technique requiring the practitioner to possess the Exchange Cauldron body.


    Nu Qinghui''s expression shifted but then turned icy. "I don''t care where you''re from. Now that you know about this technique, you must die!"


    As she finished speaking, the entire swamp churned. The binding force around Zhong Shan intensified.


    "Look, the swamp is churning!" a spectator shouted.


    "What violent power!"


    ... As people watched in horror, Zhong Shan endured wave after wave of ck mud. The powerful surges continuously tested his limits. Though his body remained intact, the pain from each impact was real.


    Gritting his teeth, Zhong Shan''s eyes grew colder, as if trying to defeat Nu Qinghui with his gaze alone.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s struggle, Nu Qinghui smiled. Once Zhong Shan was dead, no one would know her secret.


    Was Zhong Shan waiting to die? Of course not. From the moment Nu Qinghui had dragged him into the swamp, the Red Luan Mist had been surging out of him, spreading in all directions.


    As the ck mud churned, more and more of the <strong>Red Luan Mist</strong> was mixed into Nu Qinghui''s surroundings. This colorless, odorless mist was slowly but surely seeping towards Nu Qinghui, surrounding her.


    Nu Qinghui controlled the ck mud, repeatedly washing over Zhong Shan, increasing the binding force with each pass. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan silently continued infusing the <strong>Red Luan Mist</strong> into the environment around Nu Qinghui.


    This wasn''t an immediate solution. Both had to bide their time, locked in a tense standoff.


    Among the three battlefields, the one between Wang Ku and Gui Shou was the calmest, as the two simply locked their auras on each other.


    The sh between the <strong>Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation</strong> and the <strong>Qi Ling Tower</strong> was the most violent, with avnches and golden light shing, creating a spectacr disy.


    The confrontation between Zhong Shan and Nu Qinghuiy somewhere in between��not as visually striking, yet not entirely calm, with the swamp continuously churning. This was the battlefield everyone cared about the most.


    Everyone at the entrance of the Chao Tian Hall kept their eyes on this battle.


    Bei Qingsi, Bing Xuan, and another elder from the Longevity Realm all stared intently, knowing this battle would determine everything.


    "Zzz������������������������������������������������������������"


    Suddenly, two discordant sounds echoed from the front of the Chao Tian Hall.


    Everyone turned to look, their eyes widening. Thest elder from the Longevity Realm had a purple sword piercing through his chest.


    This elder was at the Imperial Extreme realm! He had been ambushed? A sword through his chest!


    No, there was also a fine cut on his head, from which blood was steadily flowing.


    Dead? The elder''s eyes widened in disbelief. He had been ambushed? A sword to the head, another to the heart, severing his spirit. How was this possible? How could he not have noticed?


    "You dare������������������������������������������������������������"


    An angry roar erupted from inside the Chao Tian Hall, and a powerful me shot towards the elder''s location. A ck shadow shed a thousand zhang away into the sky. The roar came from thest Heavenly Extreme realm expert inside the Chao Tian Hall, Crow Supreme, Wu Huan!


    Wu Huan had been monitoring the three battlefields, so he wasn''t paying close attention. But even so, how could someone have snuck in under his nose and assassinated the elder?


    This was terrifying. The stealth was so strong it had even eluded a Heavenly Extreme realm expert!


    Who was it? Who was so terrifying?


    Everyone looked to see a ck-robed figure standing in the sky. The figure was imposing, holding a purple sword. Clearly, once discovered by Wu Huan, there was no hiding.


    In an instant, Wu Huan appeared outside the hall, ring angrily at the ck-robed, purple-sword-wielding man.


    "Who are you?" Wu Huan asked coldly, his eyes shing with rage.


    "Dark Emperor! Greetings, Wu Huan Supreme!" the Dark Emperor replied solemnly.

 Chapter 608: Trapping Nu Qinghui

    <h4>Chapter 608: Trapping Nu Qinghui</h4>


    "Dark Emperor! Greetings, Wu Huan Supreme!" Dark Emperor said solemnly.


    "Dark Emperor?" Wu Huan looked at Dark Emperor with cold eyes, a hint of surprise flickering within.


    Wu Huan could see that this man, who called himself Dark Emperor, showed no fear before him. Yet he was only at the Imperial Extreme realm, so how could he possess such audacity? Was he insane?


    Insane? Impossible. Wu Huan felt a sense of threat emanating from the Dark Emperor. A threat? How was that possible? Today truly felt surreal!


    How much strength was Zhong Shan still hiding?


    They hadn''t been able to capture Zhong Shan yet, and Zhong Shan''s backup ns seemed endless, as if he were recklessly throwing everything he had into the fray.


    The Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation, the Water Extermination Sword, three Heavenly Extreme realm experts��such a luxuriousbination, yet they still hadn''t managed to subdue Zhong Shan?


    Now, this sudden appearance of a man who made Wu Huan feel threatened? This was truly extraordinary! They needed to resolve this quickly��defeat this man, then join Nu Qinghui to kill Zhong Shan. If this dragged on, who knew what other changes might ur!


    "Do you think a mere Imperial Extreme realm can stop me?" Wu Huan shouted.


    "My dutypels me. If you do not move, I will not move," Dark Emperor replied earnestly.


    Wu Huan raised an eyebrow. Duty? Was this man also part of the Great Zheng Dynasty? "If you do not move, I will not move?" Wu Huan sneered.


    "Such arrogance. Let''s see how you handle this!" Wu Huan snorted and thrust his hand forward, sending a massive golden palm towards Dark Emperor. The golden hand, over a hundred zhang in size, seemed to carry the might of the heavens, grasping for Dark Emperor. The force of the hand distorted the space around it.


    Dark Emperor remained calm. A ck sphere suddenly emerged from behind him, growingrger until it reached a hundred zhang in size.


    The ck sphere exuded an incredibly heavy force, as if it contained the weight of a thousand mountains, creating ripples in space as it ascended.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The golden palm collided with the ck sphere, producing a deafening explosion that shook the very fabric of space.


    A strange scene unfolded before everyone. The golden palm disintegrated, while the ck sphere continued its ascent as if nothing had happened, pressing down with an immense pressure.


    "Star Elder''s Orb? This is Star Elder''s ''Star Orb''?" Wu Huan eximed.


    "Good eye. This is indeed the Star Orb. Now, do you still think I''m being arrogant?" Dark Emperor said calmly.


    "The Star Orb, one of the Twelve Ancient Treasures? How did it end up in your hands? Star Elder would never give it away, unless...unless he''s dead?" Wu Huan''s eyes widened.


    "Correct. This is my master''s relic. So what? In my hands, it remains one of the Twelve Ancient Treasures. Wu Huan Supreme, I advise you not to make any moves. Otherwise, to protect my master, I will fight to the death and leave you with an unforgettable memory!" Dark Emperor said firmly.


    Fight to the death? Wu Huan felt a chill in his heart.


    Dark Emperor wielding the Star Orb was akin to Jing Xueshen wielding the Water Extermination Sword��capable of matching Wu Huan.


    Master? He called Zhong Shan his master? This Zhong Shan was terrifying. Even Star Elder''s disciple had been subdued by him! The Star Orb was immensely powerful, one of the Twelve Ancient Treasures, the only one from the Great Thousand World. Its first appearance was in a legendary sh with the Heaven-Splitting Axe.


    The powerful collision between the Star Orb and Wu Huan''s golden palm ended in a stalemate, cementing the Star Orb''s fearsome reputation. Passed down through generations, it had always been coveted by the world''s strongest, yet also something they wished to avoid.


    The Star Orb locked onto Wu Huan, who coldly observed Dark Emperor. While Wu Huan wasn''t necessarily afraid of the Star Orb, especially given the lower cultivation level of its wielder, the fact that this cultivation could still pose a threat made Wu Huan wary.


    Wu Huan didn''t even retrieve his Soul-Scattering Bell, instead, he simply red at Dark Emperor.


    Another Heavenly Extreme realm expert was entangled.


    Not far away, Bing Xuan''s eyes widened in disbelief. How could all of this be real?


    Did Zhong Shan really possess such power?


    All these powerful forces weren''t borrowed; they belonged to Zhong Shan?


    The Ninth Legion Commander Wang Ku? Servant Dark Emperor? And his son inside the Qi Ling Tower? And then there was Di Xuansha. Could the Great Zheng Dynasty contend with a celestial empire?


    At this moment, Bei Qingsi showed a faint smile and took off into the sky, quickly flying away from the Chao Tian Hall and positioning herself in the central area between Dark Emperor, Wang Ku, and the Qi Ling Tower.


    "Bei Qingsi, how can you move?" Bing Xuan eximed in surprise.


    "With the Chao Tian Hall now clear, I can move freely," Bei Qingsi replied with a smile.


    Clear? When Wu Huan emerged, the Chao Tian Hall no longer obstructed divine sense, revealing it to be empty. Bei Qingsi no longer needed to pretend to be a hostage.


    "So you had already broken the seal your master ced on you?" Bing Xuan''s face darkened.


    Bei Qingsi smirked but didn''t respond.


    Inside the ck swamp, Zhong Shan endured the increasing force of the ck mud. The binding force grew stronger, to the point that even Zhong Shan''s resilient body struggled.


    Nu Qinghui watched Zhong Shan coldly as he endured the binding torment.


    "How does it feel?" Nu Qinghui sneered.


    "Not bad!" Zhong Shan forced a smile through the excruciating pain, his face contorted from the intensity.


    Not bad? Nu Qinghui was momentarily taken aback. That voice, for some reason, reminded her of another deep voice.


    It was Gu Shentong''s voice. In her previous life, when Nu Qinghui traveled the world with Gu Shentong, she often attracted many greedy suitors due to her allure. Gu Shentong had fended them off but was left covered in wounds.


    "Are you okay?" Nu Qinghui had asked back then.


    "Not bad!" was Gu Shentong''s response.


    The same reply. Nu Qinghui was momentarily transported back to those times when there were no other women by Gu Shentong''s side.


    In that moment of nostalgia, Nu Qinghui saw Zhong Shan transform into Gu Shentong.


    Gu Shentong? Was this Gu Shentong?


    Nu Qinghui''s eyes became dazed. A sudden rush of heat surged through her body, an unprecedented desire erupting from deep within.


    Nu Qinghui was startled, biting her tongue to clear her mind. The sharp pain quickly brought her back to her senses.


    "Aphrodisiac?" Nu Qinghui eximed upon regaining rity.


    She felt an intense heat all over her body, a powerful desire flooding her mind.


    No, she had to stop it. Nu Qinghui quickly tried to expel the Red Luan Mist from her body.


    But just as she was trying to expel the mist, she felt a finger press against her back. Then, an arm wrapped around her, pressing against her right chest, and another point pressed a vital acupoint.


    In an instant, Nu Qinghui found herself unable to counter the effects of the aphrodisiac. The mist surged through her body, leaving her limp and helpless, her eyes filled with tears as she struggled to maintain herposure and avoid sumbing to the overwhelming desire.


    Chapter 608: Trapping Nu Qinghui (Continued)


    Nu Qinghui''s entire body softened, her face flushed, but she had not lost her reason. She looked to where Zhong Shan had been.


    Zhong Shan had vanished?


    In the brief moment when Nu Qinghui was distracted, Zhong Shan had broken free from the ck mud. He had appeared behind Nu Qinghui, his fingers pressing against her vital acupoints. The Red Luan Mist continued to spread, rendering Nu Qinghui immobile.


    The world''s most potent aphrodisiac was not renowned for nothing, and Zhong Shan had reached the seventh level of the <strong>Red Luan Heaven Sutra</strong>. Even a Heavenly Extreme realm expert like Nu Qinghui couldn''t resist its effects.


    "You''d better kill me now, or I swear I will kill youter!" Nu Qinghui said with gritted teeth, her eyes zed with desire.


    However, her wordscked the intended menace, sounding more like a sultry plea, which only stirred Zhong Shan''s possessive instincts further.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan''s face was cold. Ten years of fortunes had shifted, and now it was his turn.


    "Stupid woman, don''t worry. I''m not interested in you at the moment," Zhong Shan said with a cold snort.


    "You!" Nu Qinghui''s eyes widened in anger, but her breathless retort only caused Zhong Shan''s mind to buzz.


    "Such a femme fatale. If it were anyone else, you''d have two options: be killed or be humiliated," Zhong Shan said sternly, suppressing his own growing heat.


    "Dare you?" Nu Qinghui spat, though it sounded more like a challenge than a threat.


    "Why wouldn''t I dare? You are at my mercy. I can do whatever I want!" Zhong Shan''s eyes shed dangerously.


    Nu Qinghui seemed genuinely afraid for a moment and fell silent.


    "Because you are Nu Qinghui, I won''t kill you today, nor will I humiliate you. Remember, you are safe today not because I pity you, but because of Zi Xun and Nian Youyou!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "What do you want?" Nu Qinghui asked, her eyes still hazy.


    "I don''t want anything from you. I just want to berate you, you brainless woman!" Zhong Shan said with a smirk.


    Hearing Zhong Shan insult her as brainless, Nu Qinghui became acutely aware of the strong arm pressing against her chest. Her already flushed face reddened even more.


    "Isn''t that right? Heh, you came to kill me? Did you ever consider the consequences? Did you think I was that easy to kill?" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    Nu Qinghui panted, ring at Zhong Shan through her rity.


    "I know you''re still conscious, so listen well. I''m keeping the dosage of the aphrodisiac just right so we can have a proper talk. Am I wrong to call you brainless? Let me ask you, even if you manage to kill me today, have you considered the consequences?" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Consequences? Hmph!" Nu Qinghui snorted.


    "You''re very stubborn. But have you thought about what''s behind me? The Great Zheng Dynasty is my own. If you kill me and destroy the Great Zheng Dynasty, do you think Di Xuansha will spare you? Do you think my followers, like Wang Ku, will let you go? How many can you fend off?" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    Nu Qinghui''s initial anger turned into contemtion.


    Under the influence of the aphrodisiac, her thoughtful demeanor appeared even more alluring, her eyes hazy and inviting.


    "Speaking of which, I haven''t even seen your true face yet," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Chapter 608: Trapping Nu Qinghui (Continued)


    Zhong Shan''s hands remained pressed against Nu Qinghui''s vital points. He had used his teeth to tear away her veil, revealing her face.


    Nu Qinghui, snapped out of her thoughts, red at Zhong Shan with a look that seemed as though she wanted to devour him.


    Seeing her face, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but gasp.


    There existed such an exquisite face in the world? It was as if the Creator had endowed her with all the beauty in the world. The sight was so breathtaking that Zhong Shan had to close his eyes, unable to look any longer. The impact of her beauty almost made Zhong Shan lose hisposure, but he managed to hold on.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan suppressed the restlessness in his heart. He felt the softness and fragrance of Nu Qinghui''s body, and the touch of her skin made him feel a wave of desire. Shaking his head, Zhong Shan regained his rity through sheer willpower.


    "Don''t think I''m wrong. Have you ever considered the disaster that would follow if you killed me? Di Xuansha, Wang Ku, and even Nie Fancheng would seek revenge for me. Wu Jiutian would as well, not to mention others you don''t know about. Can you handle that?" Zhong Shan spoke sternly.


    Nu Qinghui, still in a daze, bit her lip, staring at Zhong Shan with a mix of hatred and confusion.


    "You haven''t thought about it, have you? Ha, chest but no brains, fits you perfectly!" Zhong Shan mocked.


    "Hmph!" Nu Qinghui snorted.


    "And besides, apart from using the ck mud to bind me, you didn''t use any other weapons. I assume you felt threatened by me, sensed that I still had something that could endanger you?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Nu Qinghui furrowed her brows. Even in her current state, this frown added to her charm, making her even more captivating.


    Nu Qinghui, indeed the epitome of femininity, managed to exude an irresistible allure with every expression, every emotion.


    "I can tell you clearly, yes, I still have something I haven''t used. You can''t kill me! You''re just a foolish woman," Zhong Shan said with a cold smile.


    Nu Qinghui red at Zhong Shan, wishing she could tear him apart.


    Seeing her eyes, Zhong Shan smirked. "Do you think I''m lecturing you for your benefit? You think I''m bored and teaching you a lesson for no reason? Hmph, if not for Nian Youyou and Zi Xun, I wouldn''t even bother saying this!"


    "If I don''t die today, I will definitely take your head!" Nu Qinghui threatened breathlessly.


    Her soft threat only made Zhong Shan feel even more amused.


    "Take my head? You?" Zhong Shanughed.


    Nu Qinghui continued to re at Zhong Shan.


    "Hmph, you don''t think the Longevity Realm will stand up for you, do you?" Zhong Shan snorted.


    Nu Qinghui furrowed her brows, her expression bingplex.


    "The Longevity Realm? Hmph, if they really cared about you, the one sent to kill me would be Shen Ya Daojun himself. Sending you means you''re just a pawn, a scapegoat. Whether you kill me or not, you''re just a pawn. Do you think the Longevity Realm cares about you? Stop dreaming. You''re nothing but a pawn," Zhong Shan sneered.


    "You, you''re talking nonsense!" Nu Qinghui''s fury mixed with her current state, and she ended up swearing.


    "Oh, you can curse now? Am I wrong? You think you''re so great? Heavenly Extreme realm? So what? In the grand scheme of things, a Heavenly Extreme realm expert is nothing!" Zhong Shan scolded.


    Zhong Shan''s scolding stunned Nu Qinghui. Nothing?


    "Hmph, don''t think being a Heavenly Extreme realm expert is impressive. In a chaotic world, even Heavenly Extreme realm experts can turn to ashes. Otherwise, why is it that even with three Heavenly Extreme realm experts, the Water Extermination Sword, and the Snow God Extinguishes the World Formation��equivalent to five Heavenly Extreme realm experts��you still can''t defeat me? Individual strength is not the most important thing!" Zhong Shan said disdainfully.


    "You!" Nu Qinghui red at Zhong Shan.


    "The Longevity Realm? Daojun of the Longevity Realm? Let me tell you, with your personality, even as a Daojun, many people can still humiliate you. With your beauty, there are countless who want to take advantage of you. Do you really think everyone respects you?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Nu Qinghui squinted her eyes, but with her current state, it seemed more like she was seducing Zhong Shan.


    "Heh, calling you brainless isn''t wrong. I have the Great Zheng Dynasty, I have its forces backing me, I have the entire wolf tribe protecting me, and I have an alliance with the Great Li Celestial Dynasty. In the grand scheme of things, I have countless allies. And you? What do you have?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "You have the Longevity Realm? The same Longevity Realm that could sell you out at any moment? Ha, you used to have the Seven Star Hall of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty. I bet it''s almost entirely under the Longevity Realm''s control now. You have nothing. You only have two people left: Zi Xun and Nian Youyou. Other than that, you have nothing. You always thought you were invincible? Foolish!" Zhong Shan scolded.


    Nu Qinghui fell silent again, processing his words.


    "In the past, when Gu Shentong was alive, no one dared to touch you. You could be aloof. Now? Anyone dares to bully you, anyone dares to target you. Don''t think you''re so great! There are plenty who can humiliate you. At least, I can do it anytime!" Zhong Shan said sternly.


    After Zhong Shan finished, Nu Qinghui remained silent.


    Nu Qinghui felt a sense of mental exhaustion. On one hand, the Red Luan Mist''s potent effects were overwhelming; on the other, Zhong Shan''s relentless psychological attacks wore her down.


    "I''m saying this only for Zi Xun and Nian Youyou''s sake. Although you''ve reincarnated and have no rtion to Zi Xun anymore, I don''t want to see Zi Xun or Nian Youyou heartbroken. Take care of yourself!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    With that, Zhong Shan began extracting the Red Luan Mist from Nu Qinghui''s body.


    Nu Qinghui gradually regained rity. She quickly pulled away from Zhong Shan, but in her haste, her right breast brushed against his hand, causing a brief sharp pain.


    Freed from his grip, Nu Qinghui swiftly distanced herself from Zhong Shan, standing far away.

 Chapter 609: The Lotus of Mist

    <h4>Chapter 609: The Lotus of Mist</h4>


    In the grand sacrificial za, the Snow God Extinction Array was being suppressed by the Lingqi Pagoda. The golden light emanating from the pagoda grew brighter, causing the domain of snow to shrink.


    Panic spread among the crowd. What was this golden pagoda? How could it suppress the Snow God Extinction Array, a formation reputed to trap even the mightiest at the Heavenly Extreme Realm?


    Inside the pagoda, the sound of Buddhist chants reverberated, each note as loud as a thunderp, resonating in the ears of everyone in the Longevity Realm, causing the powerful beings to feel an unrelenting pressure.


    Golden light radiated from the pagoda, pressing towards a distant massive iceberg.


    Nearby, Gui Shou tentatively unleashed a patch of his own blue ''sky''. As it spread, it pressed towards Wang Ku.


    Above Wang Ku''s head, a dark sky suddenly appeared. This ''sky'' was pitch-ck, exuding a strong malevolent aura that filled the surroundings. Upon seeing this sky, many were filled with dread and fear, retreating quickly. Some strange creatures even seemed to swim within this dark sky.


    "Demon Sky?" Gui Shou eximed in shock. What was this path? What was this ''sky''? Who exactly was this Wang Ku?


    After just one probing attempt, Gui Shou ceased further testing, realizing that Wang Ku''s ''sky'' was far beyond his own.


    Thus, Gui Shou and Wang Ku returned to a tense standoff.


    The Star Pearl locked onto Wu Huan, causing him considerable trouble as he was forced into a stalemate.


    "Are you not worried about Zhong Shan''s safety? He might already have been killed by Nu Qinghui," Wu Huan tried to unsettle the Dark Emperor.


    "Supreme Wu Huan, there''s no need for such despicable tactics. Our master is the god of the Great Yin Dynasty, and we trust him unconditionally. As for his safety, you''re overthinking it," the Dark Emperor replied calmly.


    The Dark Emperor''s indifferent response made Wu Huan''s eyes sh with cold anger.


    At the edge of the za, the giant swamp had be eerily calm. What had once been turbulent was now as still as a tranquil pool. What was happening inside?


    Beneath the ck swamp, Nu Qinghui had escaped Zhong Shan''s grasp the moment he retracted the Hongluan Mist. Standing at a distance, she red at him coldly.


    "I hope you listened to what I said. I don''t want to repeat myself," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    But Nu Qinghui showed no sign of understanding, her mind consumed by deep hatred.


    "I told you, if I don''t die today, I will take your head!" she said coldly.


    In the outside world, the previously calm swamp erupted into massive waves once again. The violent aura made everyone widen their eyes in shock. The waves surged like a colossal tsunami, and in the sky, another ck ''sky'' appeared, its immense pressure bearing down.


    Within the swamp, Nu Qinghui''s eyes red at Zhong Shan as she drew a pitch-ck longsword. Fixing her gaze on him, she surrounded herself with multipleyers of protective barriers to guard against his Hongluan Mist.


    Seeing her obstinance, Zhong Shan smirked coldly.


    "A big-chested, empty-headed woman!" Zhong Shan taunted again. Simultaneously, his right hand formed a lotus seal.


    Infuriated by his insult, Nu Qinghui grew even more enraged. The powerful ck sword shed out, emitting countless streams of ck mud, moving in a bizarre trajectory towards Zhong Shan.


    With a coldugh, Zhong Shan opened the lotus seal in his hand.


    "Bang!"


    Nu Qinghui felt as if something exploded within her body, a massive energy surged through her, making her heart tighten. How could this be? How could something explode inside her body?


    A sense of dread washed over Nu Qinghui, but it was toote. She felt a sudden weakness take over her body, the once formidable sword strike she had just unleashed turned soft and powerless. How could this happen? Fear and helplessness filled her eyes.


    A drug? Was it that drug?


    Nu Qinghui was horrified as she felt the effects of the drug, her face turning increasingly red, her desire growing stronger. How could this be? She had checked her body after escaping Zhong Shan''s grasp, and there were no anomalies. So what was happening now?


    Nu Qinghui, nowpletely devoid of strength, copsed, her face flushed, breathing heavily. Her eyes became hazy, tears almost flowing.


    As her breath paused, new changes urred outside. Nu Qinghui''s ''sky'' suddenly vanished, and the tsunami-like swamp instantly calmed. The bizarre scenes made the onlookers have strange and suggestive thoughts. What were the two doing inside?


    "Why is this happening?" Nu Qinghui panted, looking at Zhong Shan.


    She didn''t understand! She had taken all possible precautions, so why had she still fallen for it?


    "You brainless, big-chested woman, do you believe me now? You''re no match for me. Your so-called ''Heavenly Extreme Realm'' is nothing," Zhong Shan taunted mercilessly.


    With each of Zhong Shan''s harsh words, Nu Qinghui felt more fear than anger when she heard "brainless, big-chested woman."


    What had just happened? Why did this happen?


    "This is called the ''Mist Lotus Seed''. I nted two seeds in your body just now. One has exploded, and there''s still another inside you. Now, don''t you think you''re at my mercy?" Zhong Shan stood over her, speaking condescendingly.


    Nu Qinghui, filled with fear, had no room for anger. The Heavenly Extreme Realm, the strongest in Shenzhou, revered like gods, was utterly helpless before Zhong Shan, blushing and at his mercy? Mist Lotus Seed? That drug?


    Zhong Shan had nted two seeds inside her?


    Biting her lip, Nu Qinghui looked at Zhong Shan with hazy eyes, like a servant before her master.


    "This Mist Lotus Seed is a warning. Do not provoke me again. As for the other seed, even with your Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivation, it will take at least a year and a half to expel it! I won''t trouble you this time, but next time, you won''t be so lucky! Use this time to think carefully about my words!" Zhong Shan said sternly.


    Then, Zhong Shan''s right index and middle fingers merged, pointing at a crucial acupoint between Nu Qinghui''s breasts. His hand inadvertently touched herrge bosom, causing her face to flush even more.


    With a flick of his fingers, Zhong Shan absorbed the Hongluan Mist back into his body, restoring Nu Qinghui to normal.


    Quickly retreating to the side, Nu Qinghui nced at Zhong Shan with a mix of anger, fear, and frustration.


    Biting her lip, she refrained from uttering any harsh words or attacking Zhong Shan again. Instead, she took out a silk veil, covering her stunning face.


    As he watched her cover her face, Zhong Shan sighed inwardly, showing a hint of regret.


    Nu Qinghui shot a fierce re at Zhong Shan, pped her hands, and the mud above dispersed violently to the sides.


    Zhong Shan saw daylight again!


    "Take care!" Zhong Shan said with a faint smile before soaring into the sky.


    Nu Qinghui shot another hateful re at Zhong Shan before following him into the air.


    "Nu Qinghui, what are you doing? Why haven''t you killed Zhong Shan yet?" Wu Huan suddenly yelled from a distance.


    Despite being entangled with the Dark Emperor, Wu Huan had kept an eye on Zhong Shan''s direction. His divine sense couldn''t prate the ck mud, but he was confident that Zhong Shan couldn''t possibly defeat Nu Qinghui. How could a Sovereign Realm cultivator stand against someone in the Heavenly Extreme Realm? It was absolutely impossible.


    So why had Nu Qinghui let Zhong Shan go? What was she doing? Didn''t she understand that the purpose of today''s mission was to kill Zhong Shan?


    She let him go?


    Wu Huan red at Nu Qinghui.


    Nu Qinghui gave Wu Huan a cold look before turning as if to leave.


    "Nu Qinghui, do you intend to defy the orders of the Raven God Dao Lord?" Wu Huan shouted angrily, his tone filled with urgency.


    "The n has failed. Everyone, withdraw!" Nu Qinghui turned and addressed the crowd.


    Indeed, there was no point in continuing. With Wu Huan trapped, there was no chance of victory.


    In the distance, Bing Xuan watched coldly as Zhong Shan slowly flew towards Bei Qingsi. Seeing Bei Qingsi fall into Zhong Shan''s embrace, Bing Xuan''s face turned dark. How could this be? With so many people and such a grand n, they still couldn''t kill Zhong Shan? Why?


    "Boom������������������������������������������������������������"


    As Nu Qinghui prepared to leave, a series of massive explosions suddenly erupted from the direction of the pce, the sound shaking the heavens. After the string of explosions, Wang Ku froze momentarily before leaving Gui Shou and appearing in front of Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan wasforting the weeping Bei Qingsi in his arms when he noticed Wang Ku''s sudden arrival. Surprised, Bei Qingsi quickly moved out of Zhong Shan''s embrace.


    "What happened?" Zhong Shan asked sternly.


    "A peerless expert broke the restriction I ced on the Absolute Immortal Sword in just two breaths!" Wang Ku replied gravely.


    Two breaths? Zhong Shan clearly remembered Wang Ku saying that it would take at least three hours for someone in the Heavenly Extreme Realm to break his restriction. But what was this? Two breaths? Just two breaths?


    Indeed, as Nu Qinghui was speaking to Wu Huan, a figure suddenly appeared in front of the Absolute Immortal Sword.


    "Greetings, Raven God Dao Lord!" The Sovereign Realm experts guarding the sword bowed respectfully to the neer.


    The Raven God Dao Lord had arrived at thest moment?


    The Raven God Dao Lord merely nodded before turning his gaze to the Absolute Immortal Sword. There were two restrictions on it, one ck and one white.


    Frowning slightly, the Raven God Dao Lord reached out and grabbed at the sword. A skull imprint appeared on the Raven God Dao Lord''s hand.


    "Zzzzz"


    Without any resistance, the Raven God Dao Lord''s hand grasped the hilt of the Absolute Immortal Sword.


    With a swift pull, the powerful sound of the restrictions being broken echoed in all directions. In just two breaths, the Raven God Dao Lord hadpletely broken the restrictions. The power of the Longevity Realm''s master was truly formidable!

 Chapter 610: The Battle of the Jin Dynasty

    <h4>Chapter 610: The Battle of the Jin Dynasty</h4>


    With the series of thunderous roars, almost all the powerful cultivators felt the overwhelming might of the Raven God Dao Lord!


    Even from a great distance, the intense malevolent pressure could be felt.


    This was the true power of the Heavenly Extreme Realm, vast and boundless, overwhelmingly suppressive!


    As Zhong Shan waved his hand, the Dark Emperor withdrew the Star Pearl and flew over. Zhong Tian also ceased his battle with the Snow God Extinction Array and returned to Zhong Shan''s side.


    With a swift motion, the enormous Lingqi Pagoda rapidly shrank, and inside the pagoda, the three thousand ascetics dressed in coarse hemp robes stood behind Zhong Tian. The Lingqi Pagoda then shrank further and flew into Zhong Tian''s body!


    The Snow God Extinction Array naturally lost its effect, leaving the once grand za in ruins, and the high tform where the Chaotian Hall stood waspletely destroyed.


    Two of the Heavenly Extreme Realm experts from the Water Branch of the Longevity Realm were dead. Reuniting, everyone had a look of defeat on their faces.


    The moment the Raven God Dao Lord drew the Absolute Immortal Sword, a ck line appeared along the sword''s path. However, the ck line came quickly and disappeared just as fast, vanishing in an instant.


    A ck line? The Sovereign Realm experts of the Longevity Realm swallowed hard.


    That wasn''t just a ck line but the terrifying effect of the Absolute Immortal Sword. With just a single sh, it tore through space, creating a thin rift.


    The Absolute Immortal Sword was truly monstrous!


    The Raven God Dao Lord, still carrying hisrge gourd, stepped forward and disappeared from the sight of the Sovereign Realm experts, reappearing in the sacrificial za before Wu Huan and the others.


    In the distance, countless onlookers held their breath.


    The master of the Longevity Realm, the Raven God Dao Lord?


    The citizens of Frozen City had never seen so many powerful figures in their lifetime. These were all legendary characters!


    One after another, they appeared like bamboo shoots after a spring rain. It was exhrating!


    "Nu Qinghui, what is going on?" the Raven God Dao Lord immediately asked, looking at Nu Qinghui.


    Nu Qinghui hesitated slightly. This operation to kill Zhong Shan was primarily led by the Water Branch, with herself and two other Heavenly Extreme Realm experts merely supporting. Why was the master questioning her first? Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s words echoed in her mind.


    "The Longevity Realm? Hmph, if the Longevity Realm truly cared about you, the only one sent to assassinate me would be the Raven God Dao Lord. You are merely a scapegoat. If you fail to kill me, it''s your failure. If you seed, you be the murderer, not the Longevity Realm. Do you think the Longevity Realm cares about you? Stop dreaming, you''re just a big-chested, brainless pawn."


    Nu Qinghui''s heart tightened, but she quickly replied, "I was defeated by Zhong Shan!"


    "Whoosh����������������������������������������������������"


    An uproar erupted around them. Defeated by Zhong Shan? How was that possible? Nu Qinghui was a Heavenly Extreme Realm expert, yet she imed to be defeated by Zhong Shan?


    Earlier, people thought Nu Qinghui had let Zhong Shan go on purpose. No one imagined Zhong Shan could actually defeat her.


    Impossible. It couldn''t be true. Whether it was Bing Xuan, Wu Huan, or the numerous people of the Longevity Realm, they all looked at Zhong Shan in disbelief. Was Zhong Shan truly that powerful?


    A sh of malice appeared in the Raven God Dao Lord''s eyes as he nced at Zhong Shan, then at the powerful figures beside him.


    When his gaze fell on Wang Ku, the Raven God Dao Lord''s eyes narrowed as if he had discovered something. When he saw the Dark Emperor, his brows furrowed. And when he saw Zhong Tian, his eyes widened even more.


    Finally, the Raven God Dao Lord''s gaze returned to Zhong Shan, a trace of surprise in his eyes.


    "Since you''re here,e out! Emperor Xuanyuan!" the Raven God Dao Lord suddenly called out.


    "Whoosh!"


    Suddenly, a figure in white robes appeared before Zhong Shan.


    "I was wondering why the Raven God Dao Lord has been so idletely, always lurking around me. Turns out you had other ns," Emperor Xuanyuan remarked with a cold, sarcastic tone.


    "Didn''t you follow me here as well?" the Raven God Dao Lord replied unhurriedly.


    "Mutual interests," Emperor Xuanyuan retorted with a cold smile.


    "Emperor Xuanyuan, you have quite an eye for talent!" the Raven God Dao Lord said, frowning as he nced at Zhong Shan.


    Clearly, he was surprised by Emperor Xuanyuan''s foresight. When had Zhong Shan caught his attention? ording to the information the Raven God Dao Lord had, Zhong Shan was merely at the Innate Stage back then, establishing a small dynasty, which was nothing. At that time, the Wolf n had been extremely proud, not having signed a contract with any human dynasty for thousands of years. The fact that Emperor Xuanyuan signed with such a minor dynasty was considered a huge joke.


    Yet this minor dynasty had not disappointed Emperor Xuanyuan. In less than two hundred years, it had grown to this extent.


    Even the Raven God Dao Lord had to admire Emperor Xuanyuan''s foresight.


    Who would dare underestimate the Great Yin Dynasty now? The recent assassination attempt had already shown everything. After today, the world would spread word of Zhong Shan''s strength and the might of the Great Yin Dynasty.


    "I wouldn''t dare. I wonder, Raven God Dao Lord, are you here to stop us?" Emperor Xuanyuan asked, staring at the Dao Lord.


    "Since you''re already here, there''s no need. Please, go ahead," the Raven God Dao Lord said calmly.


    Emperor Xuanyuan nodded and looked at Zhong Shan. After all, Zhong Shan was the master of the Great Yin Dynasty.


    Zhong Shan slowly walked forward, his strong guardians nking him. The wind blew gently, causing his ck robe to flutter slightly. His long hair drifted, and an air of arrogance surged to the sky.


    "Raven God Dao Lord!" Zhong Shan said sternly.


    The Raven God Dao Lord stared at Zhong Shan without responding.


    "The grand gesture today, Zhong Shan epts it. One day, I will repay the Longevity Realm with a grand gift!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "I await it," the Raven God Dao Lord replied with a slight smile.


    In the past, the Raven God Dao Lord wouldn''t have deigned to speak to Zhong Shan. But Zhong Shan had repeatedly shown his prowess, forcing the Dao Lord to take him seriously again and again.


    The Raven God Dao Lord hadn''t expected that Zhong Shan would possess such power. Despite being at the Sovereign Realm, he had the potential to challenge the Heavenly Extreme Realm. Even Nu Qinghui, with her strong Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivation, couldn''t defeat Zhong Shan.


    This Zhong Shan was bing an ever-greater threat.


    "Bing Xuan Emperor!" Zhong Shan called, looking at Bing Xuan.


    Bing Xuan''s heart tightened with a bit of fear, but seeing the Raven God Dao Lord nearby, his courage grew.


    "Zhong Shan?" Bing Xuan responded sternly.


    "From today onward, the Great Yin Dynasty officially deres war on the Ice-Sealed Empire! We will wash away today''s shame with blood!" Zhong Shan dered.


    The Great Yin Dynasty dered war on the Ice-Sealed Empire? The countless onlookers were shocked. Wash away today''s shame with blood?


    No one doubted the strength of the Great Yin Dynasty. When it first entered the Shenzhound, it had wiped out a hundred dynasties, eight great dynasties, and even a former empire. Today, it dered war on the Ice-Sealed Empire?


    Everyone knew that the so-called Qingzhou of the Great Yin Dynasty was just north of the Ice-Sealed Empire, with no barriers in between. With a single sentence, Zhong Shan had irrevocably set the course for war.


    War would surely result in rivers of blood. The Ice-Sealed Emperor had enraged the Great Yin Dynasty.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s deration, Bing Xuan was startled. Zhong Shan''s powerful words directed at him instinctively made him step back.


    Stepping back? Everyone looked at Bing Xuan in disbelief, causing his face to flush with embarrassment and anger.


    Realizing his loss ofposure, Bing Xuan stepped forward angrily and said, "Hmph, Great Yin Dynasty, you should check if your dynasty still stands. Though we failed to ambush you today, the three great empires surrounding Qingzhou will surely march against it as nned. After today, the Ice-Sealed Empire will also dispatch troops to Qingzhou. Surrounded on all sides, how do you n to dere war on me? You''d better worry about the other three empires that are targeting you!" Bing Xuan''s voice was icy.


    "Heh, there''s no need for you to worry about me. I am only dering war on the Ice-Sealed Empire. Within ten years, thisnd will belong to the Great Yin Dynasty!" Zhong Shan snorted coldly, ignoring Bing Xuan.


    "Let''s go!" Zhong Shan turned and addressed his followers.


    "Yes!" They nodded in agreement.


    Boldly, they walked past the powerful cultivators of the Longevity Realm.


    Bing Xuan clenched his fists, but there was nothing he could do. The Raven God Dao Lord watched coldly as the group departed, while Wu Huan and the Water Branch members looked on with hatred. Only Nu Qinghui remained expressionless, her thoughts unreadable.


    The crowd of onlookers was filled with admiration. Despite so many powerful figures, not one could stop Zhong Shan. His strength was truly formidable.


    Zhong Shan led his powerful followers back to Qingzhou!


    Just as Bing Xuan had said, aside from the southern Ice-Sealed Empire, the three great empires to the east, west, and north had already begun their campaigns against Qingzhou.


    However, long before, Yi Yan, Shui Jing, and Shui Wuhen had detected the movements from all sides and had made thorough preparations, awaiting Zhong Shan''smand tounch their counterattacks.


    At the headquarters in Qingzhou, Guangling City:


    Zhong Shan issued the "Battle of the Jin Dynasty" decree to his legionmanders, instructing them tounch offensives against the surrounding empires, seizing their fortunes to bolster the Great Yin Dynasty. This strategic move aimed to enhance their power and prepare for their advancement to an imperial dynasty.


    Given the simultaneous siege by the four great empires, Zhong Shan''s "Deration of War" was imbued with a righteous and dignified spirit, infusing the Qingzhou armies with immense courage as they prepared for battle.


    Yi Yan, Shui Wuhen, and Shui Jing tookmand of the forces, while the former Sovereign Realm guards were reced by the mighty wolf kings of the Wolf n, now Emperor Realm experts, ensuring the safety of the three legionmanders.


    With the orders dispatched, Zhong Shan returned to the pce with Bei Qingsi. Their century-long bond had deepened into a profound and enduring love, making their time together all the more intimate.


    In the pce, Zhong Shan gently removed Bei Qingsi''s garments, revealing her snow-white skin, which felt as delicate as cotton under his touch. As Bei Qingsi''s emotions stirred, her skin flushed slightly, resembling a fully bloomed snow lotus, ready to be plucked by Zhong Shan.

 Chapter 611: Cultivating Destiny

    <h4>Chapter 611: Cultivating Destiny</h4>


    The next day, when Bei Qingsi woke up, she found Zhong Shan sitting cross-legged. She had been utterly exhausted the previous night and had fallen asleep in a daze.


    After tidying up the surroundings, Bei Qingsi gazed at Zhong Shan with deep affection. She admired his chiseled features, thinking, "This is my man!" A blush crept over her icy face, and a hint of desire slipped through her infatuation.


    Zhong Shan slowly opened his eyes. A sharp purple light shot out from his eyes, extending three feet away.


    He performed a closing gesture and stood up slowly.


    "What''s wrong?" Bei Qingsi asked softly.


    "Perhaps it''s because of you. The cultivation bottleneck that troubled me for nearly two years broke throughst night! I''ve even advanced to the first level of the Emperor Extreme Realm! You truly are my lucky star!" Zhong Shan said, immediately stepping forward to Bei Qingsi.


    "Really?" Bei Qingsi blushed with a shy smile.


    At that moment, Bei Qingsi hadn''t yet dressed, her snow-white skin turning pink from the excitement. She looked incredibly enticing, perhaps due to her special physique, which made her skin exceptionally delicate and sensitive.


    Beneath her icy exteriory a fiery heart.


    "Of course, it''s true. We''ve known each other for a hundred years, and I definitely didn''t express all my feelingsst night. Let''s continue where we left off!" Zhong Shan said with a smile, lifting Bei Qingsi in his arms.


    "No, don''t!"


    ...


    After spending a few days with Bei Qingsi, Zhong Shan returned to his busy routine.


    Reports of battles from all directions kepting in! However, wars couldn''t be won in a short time, so Zhong Shan quickly shifted his focus to other matters.


    In a pce within Guangling City:


    At this moment, all outsiders were excluded, leaving only Zhong Shan and his son, Zhong Tian.


    The pce doors were tightly closed, and arge formation covered the hall, ensuring that not even Wang Ku and Emperor Xuanyuan could eavesdrop. This demonstrated the importance of the father-son conversation.


    "Father!" Zhong Tian frowned.


    "Hmm. Have the monks from the Great Ming Temple been relocated to Qingzhou?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, but I don''t understand your intention!" Zhong Tian said with a hint of confusion.


    Relocated to Qingzhou? Generally speaking, cultivating merit and umting prestige were two different systems. One umted merit, the other umted fortune, and they should ideally be kept separate. This was the practice followed by existing heavenly dynasties and sacrednds to avoid potential conflicts. But why was his father doing this?


    "Watch this video first," Zhong Shan handed him a memory crystal.


    Zhong Tian took it and watched carefully. Inside was a scene of Bao''er refining elixirs on the Eternal Holy tform. The scene showed a perfect harmony between merit and fortune, emitting a light that dispelled the tribtion clouds.


    At first nce, the scene seemed ordinary, but upon closer inspection, it was astonishing.


    Could merit and fortune truly bebined? It was thought to be impossible. The heavenly dynasties and sects of Shenzhou had likely experimented countless times without sess. How could the two systems merge? Moreover, thebined result seemed incredibly powerful, even dissolving the heavenly tribtion!


    "What did you notice?" Zhong Shan asked, sipping his tea.


    "How peculiar. What is the origin of this Eternal Holy tform, and who crafted it?" Zhong Tian asked curiously.


    "Your mother, Bao''er, is the Sect Master of the Eternal Pill Sect and possesses the Eternal Pill Scroll. Only she knows the true origin of the Eternal Holy tform. This tform is a supreme treasure from the Great Thousand World, identally falling into this world. It wasn''t crafted by humans but was instead born of heaven and earth," Zhong Shan exined seriously.


    "Heaven and earth gave birth to it?" Zhong Tian was astonished.


    "Indeed, it was born of heaven and earth, containing thews of heaven and earth within it!" Zhong Shan continued solemnly.


    "What do you mean, Father? I don''t quite understand," Zhong Tian said, still puzzled.


    "One''s destiny, luck, geomancy, umted virtue, and reputation��these are the five foundations of cultivation. You''ve seen those who cultivate reputation, umte virtue, and master geomancy. But do you know about those who cultivate luck and destiny?" Zhong Shan asked earnestly.


    "Cultivating luck? It''s said that only one person in a hundred thousand years can master it, capable of discerning the bnce of yin and yang, determining fortune and misfortune, and avoiding cmities while seeking blessings. It''s considered true defiance of heaven! As for cultivating destiny, it''s deemed impossible. No one can achieve it!" Zhong Tian recounted what he knew.


    "Impossible?" Zhong Shan smiled faintly.


    "Wait, I recall the previous abbot mentioning something about this," Zhong Tian suddenly remembered.


    "Oh?"


    "From what I heard, our Great Ming Temple was once a holynd, with ancient records. There''s a legend in the Great Thousand World about certain techniques born from heaven and earth, like the ''Book of Earth'' and the ''Book of Heaven''. Perhaps the Book of Earth cultivates luck, while the Book of Heaven cultivates destiny?" Zhong Tian spected.


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly and shook his head.


    "Uh?" Zhong Tian looked at Zhong Shan in confusion.


    "The Book of Earth might indeed cultivate luck, but the Book of Heaven definitely does not cultivate destiny. The Book of Heaven is for cultivating luck!" Zhong Shan stated firmly.


    Having two volumes of the Book of Heaven himself, Zhong Shan was certain.


    "The Book of Heaven is for cultivating luck? How do you know that, Father?" Zhong Tian asked in surprise.


    "Our Great Yin Dynasty has already established contact with the Great Thousand World in theherworld. Moreover, some of our legionmanderse from the Great Thousand World," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    Hearing this, Zhong Tian had a moment of realization and nodded. He couldn''t help but feel a surge of admiration for his father. No other dynasty in the world could develop simultaneously in both the mortal andher realms like his father''s Great Yin Dynasty.


    "Do you still not understand my point?" Zhong Shan suddenly smiled.


    Hearing this cryptic question, Zhong Tian had a sudden realization.


    "Whoosh����������������������������������������������������"


    Zhong Tian stood up abruptly, his eyes wide with shock. He finally grasped Zhong Shan''s meaning, and the realization made his hair stand on end.


    Though he was the most well-trained andposed among Zhong Shan''s adopted sons, Zhong Tian couldn''t help but react dramatically upon understanding his father''s intention.


    His mouth opened, but he seemed speechless. He nced towards the hall''s entrance, considering the grand formation outside and the presence of Emperor Xuanyuan and Wang Ku, two Heavenly Extreme Realm experts standing guard. Sweat beaded on his forehead.


    "Calm down first. We''ll discuss this in a moment," Zhong Shan said with a gentle smile.


    Zhong Tian took several deep breaths to regain hisposure. His face then lit up with excitement as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Father, is what you''re saying true?" Zhong Tian asked, his voice trembling with excitement.


    "This is just a hypothesis I derived from the Eternal Holy tform. Do you think it makes sense?" Zhong Shan replied with a faint smile.


    "It does! It truly does! After Mother refined the celestial pill, the golden light from the Eternal Holy tform didn''t attack the tribtion clouds but issued amand, ordering the clouds to disperse as if acting on behalf of the heavens!" Zhong Tian eximed, swallowing hard.


    "Just as I thought!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Father, is this truly the path to cultivating destiny?" Zhong Tian asked, clenching his fists in excitement.


    "Who knows? However, the light emitted from the Eternal Holy tform couldn''t be ''destiny'' itself. It merely suggests we''ve reached the threshold or perhaps discovered a path to cultivating destiny," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "A path to cultivating destiny?" Zhong Tian''s face lit up with excitement.


    "We can only say we''ve found the threshold, not that we''ve entered the path of cultivating destiny. Cultivating destiny is an ancient and elusive pursuit. It''s far from easy, and no one knows what lies ahead. We might be ying with fire, risking total destruction in the next moment," Zhong Shan cautioned.


    "Understood," Zhong Tian replied, falling silent for a moment.


    "Your Great Ming Temple��how do you wish to develop it? Continue as a holynd on Shenzhou, contending with other sacred ces, only to decline over countless ages?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Zhong Tian considered his father''s words before taking a deep breath. "I am willing to follow your arrangements, Father."


    "Good. In that case, let''s explore this ''path to destiny''. At worst, we fail and start anew. We have time on our side. I do not fear death and am willing to stake my life against the heavens," Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    "I am willing to stake my life against the heavens!" Zhong Tian echoed with equal solemnity.


    Firm in his resolve, Zhong Tian decided to follow his father''s footsteps down the unprecedented path of cultivating destiny.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    Suddenly, a massive explosion sounded in the sky above Qingzhou, as if the heavens themselves had sensed something. An immense pressure bore down upon the pce where Zhong Shan and Zhong Tian conversed.


    Although the two hadn''t done anything physical, their conversation seemed to have provoked the heavens'' wrath.


    Within the grand formation, Zhong Shan and Zhong Tian were unaware, but outside, Emperor Xuanyuan and Wang Ku looked up in shock. What was the emperor doing inside to cause such amotion?


    The sky turned dark, as if filled with countless lightning bolts ready to strike. Emperor Xuanyuan''s aura red, seeming to challenge the heavens.


    "Don''t move. This is a warning from the heavens. If you don''t provoke it, it will dissipate on its own," Wang Ku quickly intervened, breaking through Emperor Xuanyuan''s aura.


    "Eh?" Emperor Xuanyuan frowned, looking at Wang Ku. His aura retracted as he eyed Wang Ku with a hint of surprise.


    "A warning from the heavens? What do you mean? And how do you know?" Emperor Xuanyuan asked, puzzled.


    Wrapped in his ck robe, Wang Ku nced at the sky and then at the hall behind them. Although his expression was hidden, Emperor Xuanyuan could sense his deep astonishment.


    Indeed, the ck clouds gradually dispersed after just one warning, as Wang Ku had said.

 Chapter 612: The National Religion, Great Ming Religion!

    <h4>Chapter 612: The National Religion, Great Ming Religion!</h4>


    I am willing to stake my life against the heavens!


    With his goal set, Zhong Tian looked at Zhong Shan eagerly, awaiting his father''smand.


    "Since you agree, it will be much easier. Regardless of sess, we must try!" Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    "Yes, Father, you make the arrangements," Zhong Tian responded earnestly.


    "From today, the Great Yin Dynasty will establish a new institution��the National Religion! It will enlighten the popce and guide them towards both the dynasty and the faith. You shall be the head of this national religion," Zhong Shan dered firmly.


    "Understood. From today, the Great Ming Temple will be renamed the ''Great Ming Religion,'' under the Great Yin Dynasty, and will gather followers from all over the world!" Zhong Tian said with determination.


    "The Great Ming Religion? That will work. With the support of the Great Yin Dynasty, the Great Ming Religion''s collection of merits will be twice as effective with half the effort! Furthermore, its mission will be to spiritually and materially align the people with the Great Yin Dynasty," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Yes!" Zhong Tian affirmed.


    "There is another benefit," Zhong Shan said with a gleam in his eye.


    "Oh?"


    "In the future, those with cultivation potential but without talent for leadership or governance will be sent to the Great Ming Religion for further training. There, they can grow by sparring with other experts. The Great Ming Religion will be a gathering ce for the elite of the Great Yin Dynasty!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    As the father and son continued to flesh out their vision, numerous policies and decisions were established. The framework of the Great Yin Dynasty grew everrger and moreplex, an unprecedented structure in history.


    Their discussionsted three days and three nights. Outside the hall, Wang Ku, Emperor Xuanyuan, Bei Qingsi, and others waited patiently. Although they didn''t know what was being discussed, the nine thundering warnings from the heavens indicated something monumental.


    "The path to cultivating destiny is a secret known only to you and me. The world is vast and unknown, with the Great Thousand World filled with powerful beings. We must ensure this remains confidential," Zhong Shan cautioned Zhong Tian once more.


    "Rest assured, Father. This secret will remain with me," Zhong Tian affirmed.


    "Good. However, the establishment of the National Religion must be done meticulously. We must consult the y Bodhisattva to determine the feng shui for its longevity," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Understood!" Zhong Tian nodded.


    After three days and three nights of intense discussion, the oue left the waiting experts outside in shock. The higher their cultivation, the greater their astonishment at the nine heavenly warnings.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The doors suddenly opened, and Zhong Shan emerged with Zhong Tian, both appearing calm andposed, revealing nothing of their discussion.


    Wang Ku and Emperor Xuanyuan looked at Zhong Shan with curiosity, amazed by the endless wonders he brought forth.


    Bei Qingsi gazed at Zhong Shan with deep affection. As a newlywed, her attachment to him was profound, her eyes gradually welling with emotion.


    "Your son, Zhong Tian, greets you, Mother!" Zhong Tian said respectfully.


    "Yes," Bei Qingsi nodded.


    Everyone bowed slightly.


    "Emperor Xuanyuan, in a while, I will need you to apany me to Tiang Ind to bring it here," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood," Emperor Xuanyuan nodded and then disappeared. Clearly, with Zhong Shan''s emergence, his presence as a guard was no longer needed.


    The others showed puzzled expressions. What did it mean to bring Tiang Ind here? They couldn''t understand.


    "Tian''er, go handle the matters of the Great Ming Religion," Zhong Shan instructed Zhong Tian.


    "Yes!" Zhong Tian nodded.


    With a clear n, Zhong Tian worked much more efficiently.


    "Wang Ku, take a rest for now. I will review the military situation and then assign your tasks," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" Wang Ku bowed.


    "As for us, let''s return to the pce," Zhong Shan smiled at Bei Qingsi.


    Five dayster, in a pce in Guangling City.


    Zhong Shan sat on the dragon throne, facing the main members of the Great Yin Dynasty.


    The four legionmanders��Yi Yan, Shui Jing, Shui Wuhen, and Wang Ku��stood before him. Zhao Suoxiang was currently on Tiang Ind and could not attend the meeting.


    Next to Zhong Shan stood Crown Prince Zhong Tian.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty!" everyone said respectfully.


    "Yi Yan, what is the current situation?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "To the south, we have the Ice-Sealed Empire; to the north, the Yongle Empire; to the east, the Great Cang Empire; and to the west, the Great Yuan Empire. All four empires have mobilized their armies. Our troops have already marched out, and battles might have already begun in some ces," Yi Yan reported solemnly.


    "Are there any particrly troublesome individuals among them?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Most of the problematic figures are within our calctions. Although they are a bit troublesome, we can deal with them one by one. The only significantly difficult one is themander of the Yongle Empire''s army. We may need to use extraordinary measures," Yi Yan pondered.


    "The Yongle Empire? Gu Xuan?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Gu Xuan''s chief strategist, Fan Yipin, is the northern army''smander. His military tactics are highly refined, making him the most challenging opponent. However, Gu Xuan''s ambition is too wild; he has extended his reach across two empires to interfere with us," Yi Yan exined.


    "Gu Xuan? Haha, the former Four Crown Princes of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. I didn''t expect we''d sh eventually. But I trust you! Use any means necessary to fight. If he has two territories, take one from him to show him what it means to overreach," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood!" Yi Yan nodded.


    "The Four Crown Princes of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty, haha. Perhaps Fan Yipin in the north isn''t the most troublesome," Shui Jing said, fanning himself and smiling.


    "Oh?" Everyone looked at Shui Jing.


    "Your Majesty, I received new intelligence today," Shui Jing said with a hint of excitement.


    "Oh?"


    "In the eastern part of Shenzhou, chaos has begun!" Shui Jing announced.


    "The east? Are you saying the four empires of Dayong, Datang, Yongle, and Chunqiu have started warring?" Yi Yan asked, showing a trace of excitement.


    "Exactly. Although it''s hard to believe they would go to war so soon after establishing their empires, it is true. This means Fan Yipin in the north won''t remain so calm!" Shui Jing exined.


    "Good, these are all good news!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Your Majesty, we are in the southern part of Shenzhou. The southern war involves four or five empires. The eastern part of Shenzhou is simrly embroiled in conflict. Although we haven''t received news from the northern and western parts of Shenzhou due to the distance, they must be in turmoil as well, as you said. At this moment, war has spread to almost every corner of Shenzhou!" Shui Wuhen said with a hint of surprise.


    "Chaos has arisen, so we must seize the moment and upgrade our empire to an imperial dynasty as soon as possible," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Yes!" everyone responded promptly.


    "Tomorrow, you will head back to the front lines. Wang Ku, you will stay in Guangling City to oversee things. Keep an eye on major events, support the three legionmanders, and assist them if needed. Rescue them immediately if they are in danger!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" the four legionmanders responded immediately.


    "This is my son, Zhong Tian. He will lead the Great Ming Religion as its chief. The Great Ming Religion has numerous experts. If you need support, request experts from Tian''er. Also, engage in activities that generate merit for the Great Ming Religion to collect," Zhong Shan continued.


    "Uh? Yes!" everyone was initially taken aback but quickly responded.


    "Your Majesty, the rtionship between the Great Ming Religion and the Great Yin Dynasty..." Yi Yan asked with a frown.


    "The Great Ming Religion is the national religion of the Great Yin Dynasty and a part of our empire!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "Understood!" Although they were puzzled, everyone nodded respectfully.


    A national religion? What was that? The concept was confusing to them.


    "I have arranged the political affairs of Qingzhou. I will now return to Tiang Ind to bring the Heavenly Pce here," Zhong Shan announced.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" the members responded with excitement.


    The Heavenly Pce? The Lingxiao Treasure Hall? No, it should be called the Lingxiao Longevity Hall! They couldn''t believe it had been remodeled in just a few decades.


    A pce above the nine heavens��such a structure was rare in the world. The Great Yin Dynasty would have a heavenly pce above the skies. Even without considering strength, this alone would make the dynasty unrivaled. Once the Great Yin Dynasty upgraded, it could rightfully im the title of the greatest empire of all time.


    The next day, everything proceeded ording to Zhong Shan''s n.


    Zhong Shan, Bei Qingsi, and Emperor Xuanyuan set off for Tiang Ind.


    <strong>Tiang Ind, the surrounding sea:</strong>


    It wasmon to see dragons swimming in the sea around Tiang Ind.


    For decades, a Heavenly Extreme Realm expert had been closely watching Tiang Ind, unable to sleep peacefully.


    This was Ao Sihai, the Dragon n''s supreme leader.


    Ao Sihai had been monitoring Tiang Ind for decades, never rxing for a moment. Why? He was waiting for someone��Hao Meili.


    Ao Sihai''s rise to supreme leader was not only due to his strength but also his deep scheming. After his initial setback on Tiang Ind, he refrained from entering the ind again. Instead, he gathered all the dragons who knew Hao Meili, confirming her restless nature. She couldn''t stay in one ce for long, and Ao Sihai was sure she would leave Tiang Ind sooner orter.


    When that happened, Ao Sihai nned to capture Hao Meili and force her to reveal the stolen imperial seal.


    And so, Ao Sihai waited for decades. This cunning old fox was starting to lose his sanity.


    How could it be? Why hadn''t Hao Meili appeared yet?


    Decades of constant vignce were taking a toll on him, even with his Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivation. He deployed many dragons to keep watch while he returned to rest.


    As soon as Hao Meili appeared, they were to notify him immediately.


    But Hao Meili had already gone to theherworld. Could Ao Sihai still catch her?

 Chapter 613: The Heavenly Court of Lingxiao

    <h4>Chapter 613: The Heavenly Court of Lingxiao</h4>


    Returning to Sky Wolf Ind wasn''t urgent, but with Emperor Xuan Sha leading the way, they arrived at Sky Wolf Ind in just ten days.


    Inside the Hall of Longevity on Sky Wolf Ind, a long-awaited court assembly was once again convened. After the ministers shouted their praises, Zhong Shan proposed the ''Heavenly Pce n.''


    The announcement of the Heavenly Pce n caused an uproar among the court. Although Lu Jianping had overseen the construction of Sky Wolf Ind, not everyone was aware of the specifics. Even the craftsmen Lu Jianping had gathered were not told the purpose of their work.


    When Zhong Shan mentioned it in court today, everyone was stunned.


    "Where is Lu Jianping?" Zhong Shan sat on the dragon throne and called out solemnly.


    "Your Majesty, I am here!" Lu Jianping stepped forward.


    "At noon ten days from now, the ind will officially take flight!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Lu Jianping responded immediately.


    "In these ten days, make sure all the people are prepared. I do not want any disturbances during this critical period!" Zhong Shan said again.


    "We obey!" The ministers, suppressing their astonishment, responded promptly.


    The noon ten dayster was an auspicious time selected by Mud Bodhisattva.


    Ten dayster, Zhong Shan led his civil and military officials to stand before the Hall of Longevity.


    Today, the ind would officially take flight.


    Mud Bodhisattva, Liu Wushuang, Bao''er, Ling''er, Bei Qingsi, Zhao Suoxiang, and other close confidants of Zhong Shan were all present, waiting for this monumental event.


    Lu Jianping approached Zhong Shan.


    "Your Majesty, everything is ready. We are just waiting for yourmand!" Lu Jianping reported.


    Zhong Shan looked at Mud Bodhisattva, who nodded, indicating that the auspicious time had arrived.


    "Begin!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Lu Jianping responded immediately. With a wave of his hand, one hundred and eight beams of light shot out from a high tform in the distance, radiating in all directions around Sky Wolf Ind.


    These beams of light were part of a specialmunication device that only giant cities could establish. When Zhong Shan first joined the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty and was sent on a mission to the Da Yu Empire, he had stolen the Wan City Treasure Mirror, and the Deer King had used simr beams tomunicate with the surrounding cities.


    The beams, like massive columns of light, quickly spread to all corners of Sky Wolf Ind.


    After each beam had shed six times, it seemed as though messages had been received.


    Suddenly, one hundred and eight columns of light appeared around Sky Wolf Ind, piercing through the sky and reaching the heavens, boundless and infinite.


    For a moment, everyone was dumbfounded by the sight. One hundred and eight columns of light?


    Countless small towns on Sky Wolf Ind received messages from the Great Zong Dynasty, instructing everyone to stay calm during this period. But seeing such a grand spectacle, it was hard not to be amazed.


    "What is that?"


    "It must be something the Emperor is doing. Didn''t he tell us not to act rashly a few days ago?"


    "These columns of light reach the heavens. Does the Emperor really possess such power?"


    "The Emperor is like a god!"


    The citizens, initially shocked, gradually began to worship Zhong Shan.


    How powerful was Zhong Shan? How mighty was the Great Zong Dynasty? How fortunate it was to be a part of the Great Zong Dynasty?


    The one hundred and eight powerful beams of light were not only seen by the countless citizens of Sky Wolf Ind but also by numerous flood dragons in the surrounding seas. They ceased their wandering and stared wide-eyed at the edge of Sky Wolf Ind. What was happening?


    Columns of light? Columns of light that reach the heavens and earth?


    "Quick, inform the Supreme Leader, something is happening!" ordered a horned dragon to its subordinate.


    "Yes!" The subordinate immediately responded and swiftly departed.


    While the dragon n was still frowning in puzzlement, a massive explosion erupted.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Sky Wolf Ind shook violently, like a colossal earthquake, engulfing the entire ind. Zhong Shan had previously measured the size of Sky Wolf Ind and found itparable to Earth in his youth. One can imagine the impact of an ind the size of Earth suddenly shaking.


    With this massive tremor, the surrounding sea suddenly surged with towering waves in all directions. Some dragons were swept away without any resistance!


    What''s happening? The horned dragon leader''s eyes widened in shock.


    "Rumble~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Sky Wolf Ind continued to quake, and powerful waves battered the shores, annihting countless lives, forcing the dragons to retreat repeatedly.


    At the site where Zhong Shan had severed the Earth Vein, an immense amount of Yin energy surged outward, instantly freezing the sea within an eight-thousand-mile radius of Sky Wolf Ind.


    What''s happening? The horned dragon leader''s mind was in turmoil.


    "Quick, inform the Supreme Leader, there''s a major incident on Sky Wolf Ind!" the horned dragon leader roared at another subordinate.


    "Yes!" The subordinate, trembling, quickly departed.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, fog arose around the edges of Sky Wolf Ind.


    Countless clouds and mist enveloped the ind, and in an instant, it seemed as though Sky Wolf Ind was shrouded in a veil. A massive influx of spiritual energy converged upon the ind, making it seem as though the ind itself was cultivating, absorbing the spiritual energy.


    What''s happening? The horned dragon leader had never seen such a spectacle in his lifetime, staring in absolute disbelief.


    Amidst the swirling mist, Sky Wolf Ind trembled and began to float slowly.


    Sky Wolf Ind is floating? The horned dragon leader''s eyes nearly popped out of his head. A massive ind floating? This isn''t a small sect''s floating ind with a few chunks of earth taking flight��this is a colossal ind!


    What''s this giant ind doing? Floating? Am I seeing things?


    The horned dragon leader rubbed his eyes furiously, looking as though he''d seen a ghost. But right before his eyes, Sky Wolf Ind continued to rise, steadily floating higher and higher. The horned dragon leader''s eyes were nearly worn out from rubbing, yet Sky Wolf Ind''s trajectory remained unchanged.


    Before the Hall of Longevity, the officials clenched their fists in excitement. From extensive intelligence, they knew that no flying city existed on the Divine Land. This was a colossal city. Witnessing their dynasty''s overwhelming strength filled the officials with fervent excitement.


    Standing at the forefront, Zhong Shan felt the earth tremble and the gradual ascent, his heart brimming with excitement.


    This was his territory, his city, unparalleled by any.


    One hundred and eight columns of light reaching the heavens and earth formed a pathway, ensuring that Sky Wolf Ind ascended without any deviation, soaring higher and higher into the sky!


    Sky Wolf Ind''s surroundings seemed to support a massive array that only affected the air currents, not the people. When Lu Jianping designed the Heavenly Pce, he had naturally ounted for everything.


    In the high sky, the airflow is different from that on the ground, changing unpredictably from strong to weak. Lu Jianping''s goal was to stabilize the high-altitude climate, making Sky Wolf Ind appear as if it were shrouded in clouds and mist.


    Sky Wolf Ind flew higher and higher!


    The flood dragons and horned dragons in the surrounding sea were already gaping, unable to articte their thoughts.


    What am I seeing? What is that thing?


    Almost all the dragons disyed expressions of disbelief. This was too incredible. Such a huge Sky Wolf Ind could actually fly?


    Higher and higher it went. After three hours, it finally stabilized.


    By then, the sky had darkened, and only a faint light was visible. Sky Wolf Ind had be a mere dot.


    Howrge was Sky Wolf Ind? Comparable to Earth in size, and now it was just a dot? The dragons watching from below were utterly astonished.


    In the high sky, on Sky Wolf Ind, Zhong Shan and his ministers had been waiting for three hours.


    "Your Majesty, Sky Wolf Ind has reached its maximum altitude," Lu Jianping reported solemnly.


    "Oh? Maximum?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Your Majesty, this is just the current maximum. Sky Wolf Ind is designed with numerous formations to absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, optimizing the ind. Over time, it can be upgraded to fly even higher!" Lu Jianping respectfully exined.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Although the ministers were at the ind''s center, they all knew from the ind''s earlier ascent that Sky Wolf Ind was no longer in its original sea. It had truly taken flight, bing a sky ind!


    "From today onward~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Zhong Shan''s voice boomed.


    The promation echoed through the entire Xuanjing. Everyone fell silent, waiting for Zhong Shan''s next order.


    "Sky Wolf Ind is hereby renamed ''Lingxiao Heavenly Court''! It will be the capital of the Great Zong Dynasty. Xuanjing will be renamed ''Xuan District,'' included within Lingxiao Heavenly Court!" Zhong Shan dered loudly.


    The capital of the Great Zong Dynasty? Lingxiao Heavenly Court? The name Xuanjing was abolished, bing just a part of Lingxiao Heavenly Court?


    Such a vast capital? Almost everyone was in shock.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Whether officials ormoners, all bowed in reverence to Zhong Shan and the Great Zong Dynasty!


    Lingxiao Heavenly Court? Everyone remembered the name, believing it would soon resonate throughout the Divine Land. The entire world would be amazed by Lingxiao Heavenly Court, and the Great Zong Dynasty would embark on a legendary path.


    In that moment, the one hundred and eight columns of light gradually dispersed.


    "Destination, Qingzhou!" Zhong Shanmanded in a deep voice.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Lu Jianping replied respectfully.


    With another wave of Lu Jianping''s hand, the messages were again transmitted from the distant high tform. The entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court began to move slowly, heading towards Divine Land.


    After the initial buffering period, almost everyone had adapted to the flight due to inertia, feeling no movement from Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Life resumed its normalcy, but their hearts remained stirred.


    "Dismiss the court~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The excited and shocked officials left, with only a few key ministers staying behind.

 Chapter 614: Li Si

    <h4>Chapter 614: Li Si</h4>


    "Lu Jianping, oversee the trajectory of Lingxiao Heavenly Court''s operation. Ensure there are no mistakes!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes, Your Majesty, rest assured. The operation of Lingxiao Heavenly Court is based on the positioning of the stars. As long as the stars remain unchanged, Lingxiao Heavenly Court will not deviate from its path!" Lu Jianping replied respectfully.


    "Good, you may go," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Yes!" Lu Jianping responded immediately.


    "Zhao Suoxiang!" Zhong Shan called.


    "At your service!" Zhao Suoxiang responded promptly.


    "The flight speed of Lingxiao Heavenly Court is not fast. Along the way, it will inevitably pass through some imperial dynasties. The safety of the journey is your responsibility!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Understood!" Zhao Suoxiang replied with a respectful tone.


    Zhong Shan then turned to look at the Mud Buddha.


    "Chief of the Celestial Supervisor, Mud Buddha!" Zhong Shan addressed the Mud Buddha again.


    "At your service!" The Mud Buddha bowed.


    "Integrate the Daming Sect into the Great Ying''s state religion. Before arriving in Qingzhou, prepare aplete n for all site selection and feng shui matters!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Your Majesty!" The Mud Buddha stepped forward.


    "Hmm?" Zhong Shan looked at the Mud Buddha in confusion.


    "The Daming Sect cultivates the umtion of yin virtue, while our Great Ying dynasty cultivates merit and fame. These are clearly two different systems. Forcing integration may lead to future conflicts. There have been such examples in history. Even now, none of the sects and dynasties that belong to each other have a sect established within a dynasty. Such conflicts would be detrimental to both the development of the dynasty and the growth of the sect!" The Mud Buddha advised.


    "Just handle the site selection and feng shui. As for the purpose, you will understand in due time," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!" The Mud Buddha nodded in agreement. The advice was given, but if Zhong Shan did not adopt it, there was nothing more to be done. Moreover, Zhong Shan''s shrewdness had never led to a wrong decision.


    In matters of worldly affairs, the Mud Buddha knew he was no match for Zhong Shan and decided not to dwell on the issue.


    State religion? Daming Sect?


    With all arrangements in ce, Zhong Shan patiently awaited the flight of Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Qingzhou was quite far from here, and with the slow speed of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, it would take at least two years to arrive.


    Moreover, with everything already arranged, Zhong Shan had no other concerns.


    As Lingxiao Heavenly Court took off, a group of flood dragons was left in frustration.


    Under themand of their leader, the group of flood dragons followed from afar. The leader stayed in that icy region, staring at the icy in and the center where earth''s yin energy continuously surged. The leader''s facial muscles twitched incessantly.


    This was too much! Too ruthless! They had severed the earth''s meridians!


    The flood dragon leader did not know that these meridians had been broken long ago!


    Dragon Supreme, Ao Sihai, upon receiving the news, rushed towards the former direction of Heavenly Wolf Ind, stirring a massive wave across the ocean.


    It wasn''t long before he arrived at the previous location of Heavenly Wolf Ind.


    Upon reaching the distant icy in, Ao Sihai raised an eyebrow. Am I lost?


    Ao Sihai was filled with confusion. Lost? How could I get lost on the ocean?


    If not lost, then what is this? How is there an icy in here?


    Fortunately, Ao Sihai spotted the flood dragon; otherwise, he might have doubted whether he had lost his sense of direction.


    "Whoosh!"


    Ao Sihai suddenly appeared in front of the flood dragon.


    "Greetings, Supreme!" All the dragons immediately bowed.


    "What happened? Where is Heavenly Wolf Ind?" Ao Sihai asked, his eyes filled with astonishment.


    Heavenly Wolf Ind! Seeing this group of dragons, Ao Sihai confirmed that this was originally where Heavenly Wolf Ind should be. But what happened? How did it suddenly change? How was it reced by an icy in?


    "It flew away!" The flood dragon said immediately.


    Ao Sihai''s face darkened. "..."


    Seeing that the Supreme was about to get angry, the flood dragon quickly added, "Supreme, it''s true. Just now, Heavenly Wolf Ind severed the earth''s meridians and really flew away."


    The flood dragon''s panicked exnation calmed Ao Sihai''s anger, making him furrow his brows.


    "What exactly happened? Tell me everything from the beginning," Ao Sihai said solemnly.


    "Yes!" The flood dragon immediatelyplied, recounting the entire event of Heavenly Wolf Ind taking flight from start to finish.


    The more Ao Sihai listened, the deeper his frown became.


    After listening, Ao Sihai took a deep breath, looking into the distance with aplex expression. His eyes flickered with a mix of emotions before they settled into a determined look. With a sh of his figure, Ao Sihai disappeared from the spot.


    Lingxiao Heavenly Court slowly flew towards thend of Shenzhou.


    The next afternoon, Zhong Shan was discussing the site selection for the state religion with the Mud Buddha. Suddenly, both of their pupils contracted.


    The two quickly flew out of the hall and ascended into the sky, looking at the unexpected visitor.


    "Who goes there?" Zhao Suoxiang pointed his spear.


    Even though Zhao Suoxiang''s cultivation was far inferior to Ao Sihai''s, his indomitable spirit made him shout at the intruder.


    Zhong Shan appeared and waved his hand at Zhao Suoxiang. Zhao Suoxiang nodded and stepped aside. Then, Di Xuansha suddenly appeared beside Zhong Shan. They both looked at the neer.


    The visitor hade for the second time. Thest time, he was forced away by Di Xuansha. This time, he had charged in again.


    Ao Sihai!


    "Di Xuansha, such audacity! Turning such a massive Heavenly Wolf Ind into a floating ind?" Ao Sihai coldly eyed Di Xuansha, thinking he was the one responsible.


    "This is no longer Heavenly Wolf Ind. Starting from yesterday, what you see here is renamed ''Lingxiao Heavenly Court,'' the capital of the Great Ying Dynasty," Zhong Shan said coldly.


    Last time, Zhong Shan''s cultivation was far inferior to Ao Sihai''s, and he was suppressed by his aura. But this time, although Zhong Shan was still not as powerful as Ao Sihai, he could face him calmly.


    "Lingxiao Heavenly Court? Capital? Such arrogance! So, you did this?" Ao Sihai sneered.


    "Ao Sihai, this is the second time you''vee uninvited. Although my Great Ying is just a dynasty, it is not a ce for you to act recklessly!" Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "Act recklessly? Hmph, just you?" Ao Sihai said coldly.


    "And what of it? Heavenly extreme realm experts have fallen at my hands; you''re no different!" Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    "Uh?" Ao Sihai was momentarily stunned, unable toprehend.


    "Hahahahaha, what a joke! Heavenly extreme realm experts fallen at your hands? Are you gilding yourself?" Ao Sihaiughed heartily, clearly not believing Zhong Shan.


    It wasn''t Ao Sihai''s fault for his ignorance; the news of Zhong Shan defeating Nu Qinghui in Ice City likely hadn''t reached him yet, let alone the defeat of Wang Ku.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Ao Sihai, have you forgotten what I told youst time?" Di Xuansha said coldly.


    "Words? Di Xuansha, I''ve tolerated you long enough. Do you think you can disregard everyone else just because of your strength? Hmph, there are many in this world stronger than you. Today, you must hand over Hao Meili!" Ao Sihai said icily.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan snorted.


    "Even if Hao Meili were still in Lingxiao Heavenly Court, do you think you could make me hand her over?" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "You!" Ao Sihai was clearly taken aback by Zhong Shan''s words.


    In Ao Sihai''s eyes, Zhong Shan was definitely not his match and was just boasting. But it was exactly this kind of boasting that was most infuriating.


    "Ao Sihai, it seems my name, Di Xuansha, has been forgotten by your Dragon n. Since you''vee again, don''t me me for not giving you face. Today, I''ll leave you with asting impression!" Di Xuansha said coldly.


    With that, Di Xuansha moved.


    "Boom!"


    A tremendous noise echoed as the space rippled. Di Xuansha and Ao Sihai disappeared from everyone''s sight, clearly indicating that Di Xuansha had forced Ao Sihai out of the sensitive area of Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Seeing Di Xuansha and Ao Sihai disappear, Zhong Shan turned to the others and said, "Old Zhao, take care of things here. Mud Buddha, let''s continue our discussion."


    "Yes!" everyone responded respectfully.


    Not long after, Di Xuansha returned. Naturally, there was no need to report to Zhong Shan. He went directly back to the Wolf God Hall to rest.


    Over the East Sea, in the sky above a certain area, Ao Sihai''s armor had numerous cracks, and arge bloodstain marred his face. He looked exceptionally disheveled, his eyes bloodshot as he stared in the direction Lingxiao Heavenly Court had gone.


    "Bah!" Ao Sihai spat out a mouthful of clotted blood.


    Then, with a flicker, Ao Sihai disappeared from the spot.


    A month and a halfter, Ao Sihai appeared in thend of Shenzhou, heading straight for the Great Qin Dynasty! The Holy Capital of Xianyang!


    In the Holy Capital of Xianyang, the imperial capital of the Great Qin Dynasty, golden rays of fortune shone brightly.


    After the court assembly, Ao Sihai was granted an audience with the Emperor of Great Qin, Ying.


    Ying, dressed in a ck imperial robe adorned with dragon patterns and wearing a pitch-ck t-topped crown, sat on the Nine-Dragon Throne, exuding an invisible aura of majesty.


    Beside Ying were several people, all standing respectfully on either side, clearly trusted ministers. Among these ministers, even the Heavenly Extreme realm expert Xu Fu was not present, indicating that these individuals were even more important than Xu Fu.


    "Lingxiao Heavenly Court? Zhong Shan?" Ying frowned slightly.


    "Yes, the heirloom seal of my Dragon n is in Hao Meili''s possession. I believe you know about the heirloom seal?" Ao Sihai said solemnly.


    "Indeed, the heirloom seal is said to be the key to a secret realm of the Dragon n in the Great Thousand World. It has always been hidden in this small world," Ying nodded.


    Hearing Ying''s words, Ao Sihai''s eyes widened in disbelief. How could Ying know? How could he possibly know? This was a secret of the Dragon n known only to the Supreme. ording to reason, Ying should have only heard of the heirloom seal, not that the secret realm was in the Great Thousand World.


    "How do you know?" Ao Sihai asked in shock.


    "Is this a secret?" Ying looked at Ao Sihai with a calm gaze, as if it were a trivial matter.


    Ao Sihai looked at Ying strangely, suppressing his surprise.


    "I request the Emperor of Great Qin to help the Dragon n retrieve the heirloom seal!" Ao Sihai said again.


    "Li Si!" Ying called out.


    "At your service!"


    From beside him, a slightly gaunt man in loose robes stepped out respectfully.

 Chapter 615: Unidentified Flying Object

    <h4>Chapter 615: Unidentified Flying Object</h4>


    "Li Si!" Ying called out.


    "At your service!"


    From beside him, a slightly gaunt man in loose robes stepped forward respectfully.


    Li Si looked exceptionally refined, yet his eyes contained a chilling indifference towards all beings. However, in front of Ying, Li Si was merely a minister; no matter how intimidating his aura, it had no effect on Ying.


    "Have you traced Zhong Shan''s origins?" Ying asked calmly.


    Hearing Ying''s question, Ao Sihai interjected with a strange expression, "I''ve already investigated Zhong Shan. Born on Heavenly Wolf Ind, he was just a mortal a hundred years ago. Later, he joined the Great Luo Dynasty, and his strength was, at most, just at the initial entry of the Emperor Extreme Realm."


    Ao Sihai spoke the truth, but it was not the information Ying sought.


    Ying had strict requirements for information sources, preferring to hear from his own people rather than others. Additionally, reports from his own people were typically more detailed.


    "Yes, I have some findings," Li Si bowed.


    "Oh?" Ying looked at Li Si with interest, while Ao Sihai frowned.


    "Zhong Shan''s origins are unclear. During his mortal years, his natural talents were extremely poor. Later, he had the fortune of obtaining a Forbidden Breaking Pill, which set him on the path of cultivation. Along the way, he overcame numerous obstacles and founded the Great Ying Dynasty. He joined the Great Luo Dynasty and became the only person in Great Luo history capable of establishing another dynasty. This was due to the favor of Gu Qianyou, a princess with ancient magical abilities. His current strength is at the peak of the Emperor Extreme Realm, and as Ao Supreme mentioned, he has likely reached the initial stage of the Emperor Extreme Realm. Zhong Shan possesses extraordinary intelligence. During the Great Luo Dynasty, he devised the ''Heaven Copse n,'' toppling a major dynasty without bloodshed. He has close ties with Nie Fancheng of the Great Li Dynasty and an implicit agreement with Wu Jiutian of the Phoenix n. He won the Eternal Sacred tform at the Ten Thousand Elixirs Conference. His national beast, Di Xuansha, is at the peak of the Heavenly Extreme Realm, and its strength is immeasurable. Recently, he even opposed the Longevity Realm. Despite the Longevity Realm''s three Heavenly Extreme Realm experts using the Immortal ying Sword and the Snow God World Destroying Formation to encircle Zhong Shan, they ultimately failed," Li Si reported meticulously.


    "Impossible! That''s equivalent to five Heavenly Extreme Realm experts besieging Zhong Shan. How could he survive?" Ao Sihai eximed in shock.


    When Li Si began discussing Zhong Shan, Ao Sihai felt a bit irritated, thinking he had already thoroughly investigated Zhong Shan. However, as Li Si provided an incredibly detailed ount, Ao Sihai felt frustrated, realizing there were things he did not know. Hearing that Zhong Shan survived an attack by five Heavenly Extreme Realm experts left him astounded. How could this be?


    "This is fact," Li Si ignored Ao Sihai''s interruption.


    "Zhong Shan''s subordinates are all extraordinary talents, true dragons among men. No, some are not even human," Li Si continued.


    "Uh?" Ao Sihai was taken aback.


    "The Dark Emperor holds the Star Pearl," Li Si said.


    "Star Pearl?" Ying frowned slightly.


    "Indeed, the Star Pearl, one of the top eighteen treasures of all ages. It is said to have been created by a supreme expert in the Great Thousand World, who refined a star into the pearl. Zhong Shan also acquired the ''Tai Chi Diagram'' from the Netherworld. His adopted son, Zhong Tian, leads the Daming Temple and the Ninth Legion. He may not be human," Li Si said solemnly.


    "May not be human?" Ying frowned.


    "The Ninth Legion Commander, Wang Ku, is at the Heavenly Extreme Realm. Based on the recent reportparing his confrontation with Gui Shou, it suggests he is not a being of the living world but a certain type of death spirit from the underworld," Li Si detailed meticulously.


    "A death spirit? At the Heavenly Extreme Realm?" Ao Sihai was truly shocked this time.


    Is this a small dynasty? How can a dynasty have two Heavenly Extreme Realm experts? How does thispare to the major dynasties?


    "As for Zhong Shan himself, although his cultivation is not apparent, his strength isparable to the Heavenly Extreme Realm," Li Si continued his emotionless report.


    "Zhong Shan, at the Heavenly Extreme Realm? How is that possible?" Ao Sihai was incredulous.


    "It''s a fact. Not long ago, during the confrontation with the Frozen Emperor Dynasty, Zhong Shan not only restrained three Heavenly Extreme Realm experts with the help of his subordinates, but he also faced Nu Qinghui directly. The result? Nu Qinghui was utterly defeated!" Li Si stated solemnly.


    "Impossible!" Ao Sihai kept gasping for air. Zhong Shan''s rise seemed unbelievable. In just a century? Defeating Nu Qinghuipletely?


    "Hmm," Ying nodded.


    "However, Zhong Shan''s greatest strength isn''t his subordinates but his empresses," Li Si continued.


    "Empresses?" Ao Sihai was puzzled.


    "Zhong Shan has four empresses. Not long ago, he resisted several Heavenly Extreme Realm experts for the sake of these empresses. The Fourth Empress, Bei Qingsi, is a descendant of immortals. Her ancestor was once the world''s greatest expert and left behind a powerful ice-based bloodline after bing immortal. The Third Empress, Gu Qianyou, is the former princess of the Great Luo Dynasty, extraordinarily wise, with a blood contract with the Tiger n. The Second Empress, Tian Ling''er, is protected by the Vermillion Bird and, importantly, she bears the surname ''Tian''," Li Si exined.


    "Tian? A descendant of the Tian family?" Ying frowned.


    "Perhaps the only descendant left in the mortal world," Li Si said gravely.


    "Hmm," Ying nodded, clearly giving it significant thought.


    Ao Sihai opened his mouth but ultimately did not interrupt Li Si.


    "As for Zhong Shan''s First Empress, Gan Bao''er, she is the most noteworthy and should be treated with utmost caution," Li Si continued.


    "Oh? To the extent that I should be cautious?" Ying''s eyes glinted with interest as he looked at Li Si.


    "Gan Bao''er is the leader of the Eternal Pill Sect," Li Si said with a bow.


    "The Eternal Pill Sect?" Ying looked at Li Si, waiting for more information.


    "The Eternal Pill Sect may seem distant, but ording to the portrait of Gan Bao''er brought back by Xu Fu from the Ten Thousand Elixirs Conference, I must emphasize that she cannot be ignored!" Li Si said solemnly.


    "Oh?"


    "Your Majesty, please take a look."


    With a flick of his wrist, Li Si produced a memory crystal. The projection vividly disyed Bao''er''s portrait.


    Seeing the portrait, Ying''s pupils contracted.


    "It''s her?" Ying''s eyebrows furrowed.


    "It shouldn''t be her," Li Si shook his head.


    "In recent times, I established a special reconnaissance unit dedicated to Gan Bao''er. While Gan Bao''er may not be the same person from the past, there seems to be some connection. When the Great Ying Dynasty was upgraded to an imperial dynasty and Gan Bao''er''s life was threatened, a supreme expert from the Great Thousand World tore through the barriers of the two realms to save her!" Li Si reported.


    Ao Sihai was utterly confused by the conversation. Who were they talking about?


    Ying closed his eyes and thought deeply. Finally, he opened them and said, "Gan Bao''er is her, and she isn''t Gan Bao''er."


    Ao Sihai looked at Ying strangely. What did that mean? How could she be and not be at the same time?


    "Your Majesty, are you saying...?" Li Si''s eyes showed a hint of shock.


    "Indeed, it has been tens of thousands of years. She ascended to the Great Thousand World back then. I originally thought she was too eager for sess, but it turns out the Great Thousand World was her true destination. She has reached the level of ''fate alteration and derivation,'' not to be underestimated!" Ying said, squinting his eyes.


    "Fate alteration and derivation? She actually mastered such an otherworldly ability?" Li Si''s eyes also showed a trace of shock.


    Ao Sihai looked at the pair of sovereign and minister with an odd expression.


    "Fate alteration and derivation? What is that? An otherworldly ability? What does it mean?" Ao Sihai''s eyes flickered with confusion. He had never heard of such terms before.


    "Your Majesty, how should we proceed?" Li Si asked, his eyes betraying a hint of strangeness.


    "The Great Ying is currently ascending in rank, correct?" Ying pondered.


    "Yes," Li Si nodded.


    "Once the Great Ying sessfully ascends to an imperial dynasty, you will represent the Great Qin to visit the Great Ying. Investigate thoroughly and demand Zhong Shan return the Dragon n''s heirloom seal," Yingmanded.


    "I will obey," Li Si immediately responded.


    "Thank you, Emperor of the Great Qin!" Ao Sihai breathed a sigh of relief. For Ao Sihai, as long as the heirloom seal was returned, nothing else mattered.


    After nearly half a year of flight, Lingxiao Heavenly Court finally left the East Sea and officially entered thend of Shenzhou.


    As they approached an imperial dynasty, in a military camp, a group of generals was in a meeting when suddenly a scout rushed in.


    "Reporting to themander, three million miles east, at an altitude of a million miles, an unidentified flying object has appeared!" the scout reported.


    "..."


    The generals in the hall all had ck lines on their foreheads. Was this scout new? How did he gather his information? An altitude of a million miles? An unidentified flying object?


    "Absurd! Three million miles east is not within our borders. What''s flying high in the sky got to do with us?"


    "Also, a million miles high? That would have to be a peerless expert. How could you see that? With your cultivation, seeing an expert flying at a height of a hundred thousand miles would already be your limit. Are you daring to deceive us?"


    "Unidentified flying object? Since you saw it, couldn''t you make out its shape?"


    As the generals mocked, the scout broke out in a cold sweat.


    Themander looked on coldly. Who trained this scout? Such nonsense! Didn''t he know there were important matters being discussed?


    "Commander, generals, every word I said is true. If you step outside the hall, you can see for yourselves. Many soldiers in the camp have already stopped training and are looking at the sky," the scout quickly exined.


    "Uh?" The generals were slightly stunned.


    What the scout said seemed utterly absurd, but why was he so confident? The generals, filled with doubt, scrutinized the scout again. Finally, one general stepped outside.


    As soon as the general stepped out, he seemed to freeze in ce.


    "Commander, there really is an unidentified flying object!" The general stood outside, staring, mouth agape in disbelief.


    Hearing this, the other generals were shaken and one by one, they went outside.


    Just like the previous general, they all looked towards the east, disying expressions of extreme incredulity.

 Chapter 616: The Aspiration of the World

    <h4>Chapter 616: The Aspiration of the World</h4>


    Amidst swirling clouds, a massive floating ind slowly traversed the skies millions of miles above ground.


    Slow? It was merely a matter of perspective. Like the sun''s apparent movement, it seemed slow enough, yet its speed was beyond the reach of most.


    A floating ind amidst the clouds? In the high skies millions of miles above?


    Witnessing this scene, nearly everyone was stunned. So distant, yet so immense?


    Countless experts, upon spotting the Celestial Pavilion, ascended into the air, eager to approach and witness its full grandeur. Those with lower cultivation couldn''t keep pace with the Pavilion''s speed, while even the most skilled exerted themselves to keep up.


    Gradually, as people drew near, they were dumbfounded to find that what they thought was a ''floating ind'' extended beyond their sight.


    Was this even a floating ind? How could something like this fly? The foremost floating ind in the world?


    "Halt!" Zhao Suoxiangmanded, spear in hand, surrounded by his subordinates at the westernmost point.


    "Who goes there?" queried a leading expert of the Emperor''s Domain.


    "The Great Juezhen Dynasty, Zhao Suoxiang!" Zhao Suoxiang replied solemnly.


    "The Great Juezhen Dynasty? Ah, I remember now...!" Suddenly, one of them eximed.


    All eyes turned to him.


    "This is the Isle of Tiang, the ancestralir of the Wolf n, and the residence of Emperor Xuanzha. Tiang Ind, that peak along the coast, where I sought refuge in days past��it cannot be mistaken. This... this is Tiang Ind!" he shouted in disbelief.


    At his cry, the resolve of the experts who had intended to ascend the Celestial Pavilion wavered. Emperor Xuanzha''sir? Tiang Ind? While Emperor Xuanzha was once well-known, with Zhongshan''s rise, understanding of him grew. Zhongshan''s Great Juezhen Dynasty''s capital was on Tiang Ind��was this indeed Tiang Ind?


    One by one, the experts who had contemted offense restrained themselves.


    Filled with incredulity, they looked on. Tiang Ind? How did ite to fly here? How did it ascend?


    "The Tiang Ind of old exists no more. This is now called the ''Celestial Pavilion,'' the capital of the Great Juezhen Dynasty. Before His Majesty opened the Celestial Pavilion, we request all to show restraint and not approach unannounced," Zhao Suoxiang dered solemnly.


    Upon hearing Zhao Suoxiang''s words, nearly everyone frowned.


    Tiang Ind? Celestial Pavilion? Capital?


    No one dared to underestimate Zhongshan, nor Emperor Xuanzha. This was the political heart of the Great Juezhen, the ancestralir of the Wolf n. Who would risk their lives to offend?


    Having made their intentions clear, Zhao Suoxiang and the experts reluctantly withdrew.


    Watching the immensely vast Celestial Pavilion fly by, countless experts couldn''t contain their amazement. They felt as if they were in a dream until the Celestial Pavilion flew out of sight, leaving them abruptly awake.


    The dynasty? Celestial Pavilion? From this moment on, news of the Celestial Pavilion was sure to spread throughout the world, and the name of Zhongshan would once again resound across the continent.


    The Celestial Pavilion, the foremost city in the world, the foremost capital of the world��none of the previous celestial capitals couldpare. It was truly worthy of being called the foremost city for all eternity, even hailed as the first city of the ages!


    Swiftly, the experts dispersed in all directions, spreading the news like a flood. Wherever the Celestial Pavilion passed, it became once more the aspiration of the world.


    Upon receiving news of this astounding feat, dynasties and sects dispatched numerous scouts to investigate.


    As for safety, after learning the origins of the Celestial Pavilion, no one dared to intervene. Moreover, in the southern regions of the continent, there were no powerful dynasties to contest with, allowing the Celestial Pavilion to travel smoothly on its way through thend of Zhou.


    The movements of the Celestial Pavilion stirred the hearts of countless individuals.


    Above the Celestial Pavilion,


    After the court assembly, within the Hall of Longevity, stood a group of Zhongshan''s trusted confidants. Those of lower cultivation remained at a distance, while the higher cultivators dared to approach closer to the center.


    At the heart of the great hall was a jade table, upon which rested a white jade statue. All eyes were fixed on this statue of white jade. Even Liu Wushuang, after a single nce, felt her mind sway, quickly closing her eyes and sitting cross-legged to meditate.


    The white jade statue depicted an unparalleled beauty, seemingly divinely crafted, adorned in flowing robes exuding an unparalleled allure.


    This was the cherished treasure passed down by Beiqingsi, the statue known as the "Heavenly Demon Pond."


    As everyone gazed upon the white jade statue, they couldn''t help but experience fleeting illusions: visions of countless beauties, of yakshas, of enemies, of loved ones��phantasmal visions filling their minds.


    "Is this the treasure you spoke of?" Zhongshan looked to Beiqingsi.


    Beiqingsi nced at Linger and Baoer, seeing the gentle smiles of the two women before turning to Zhongshan. "Yes, it was discovered by our ancestor by chance. ording to our ancestral records, this item originated from the Great Thousand Worlds, though how it came to be lost and ended up here is unknown. Its name is ''Heavenly Demon Pond.''"


    "Heavenly Demon Pond?" Zhongshan furrowed his brow.


    Nibo and the others showed expressions of confusion.


    Heavenly Demon Pond? This statue was a pond? They exchanged puzzled looks.


    "This Heavenly Demon Pond was sealed countless times by our ancestor after ascending to immortality, thus preventing it from causing turmoil in our hearts," Beiqingsi exined.


    "Countless seals?" Those whose minds were confused couldn''t help but twitch their lips.


    To have been sealed countless times, yet still inspire such terror.


    "ording to our ancestor''s records, it was discovered in a deep mountain notorious for ghostly legends, where people often saw specters. Perhaps these were its doing. At that time, this object was like a small pond in the heart of a valley in that deep mountain, seemingly discarded by someone unintentionally," Beiqingsi continued.


    "Ah," nodded the crowd as they looked at Beiqingsi.


    "That pond, because it turned pitch-ck and shrouded the entire valley in countless illusions, would have led to death if our ancestor hadn''t created the ''Ice Heart Technique'' to safeguard our hearts. ording to the records, within that pond, a ''Heavenly Demon'' would emerge every day, tearing through the void and leaving this realm," Beiqingsi said.


    After Beiqingsi finished speaking, the group of experts wore strange expressions, particrly Emperor Xuanzha. Emperor Xuanzha stared at the beautiful statue before him in an extremely bizarre manner. A Heavenly Demon? Could this thing breed Heavenly Demons?


    "A Heavenly Demon deceives the heart. It''s rumored to be a formless spirit unique to the Great Thousand Worlds, an ascension of the mind demon, unstoppable and incorporeal. Junior Heavenly Demons often be formidable adversaries during the tribtion of the Heaven Extreme Realm in the Great Thousand Worlds. The greatest obstacle to bing an immortal in the Heaven Extreme Realm is the Heavenly Demon!" Mud Bodhisattva nodded.


    "The Great Thousand Worlds? Invoking Heavenly Demons during ascension? What about our Small Thousand Worlds?" Zhongshan asked.


    "In our realm, it''s not certain!" Mud Bodhisattva shook his head.


    "Oh?"


    "Speaking of which, ''immortal'' is just a general term. After confronting and resisting the Heavenly Will post-tribtion, reversing mortal fate into immortal fate, the resulting immortal fate may not necessarily be the same. Ordinary immortals who ascend from the Heaven Extreme Realm often only be the lowest ss of immortals. Such immortals do not necessarily invoke Heavenly Demons during their tribtion in the Small Thousand Worlds. However, for someone like Emperor Zhi Zun, I believe that Heavenly Demons will descend during his future tribtion. If he can pass through, his achievement will far surpass that of ordinary immortals. If he cannot pass through, he will only turn to ashes!" Mud Bodhisattva said solemnly.


    Emperor Xuanzha nodded in agreement. How strong was he? One of the strongest Heaven Extreme Realm existences; his path to immortality was not that of an ordinary immortal. The difference between the most ordinary immortal and Emperor Xuanzha was not substantial.


    It wasn''t merely about realms; just like the ancient shaman, who could defeat the weakest immortals with the Opening Sky Axe, prowess couldn''t solely be measured by realms. Just as with Zhongshan, realms didn''t define strength.


    "It''s rumored that seventy percent of those who fail their tribtion in the Great Thousand Worlds perish due to Heavenly Demon disturbances," Mud Bodhisattva said solemnly.


    Upon hearing Mud Bodhisattva''s exnation, the group of experts looked at the white jade statue on the table, a chill passing through their eyes.


    Heavenly Demons, how terrifying they were. Even junior Heavenly Demons had caused countless Heaven Extreme Realm experts to meet untimely deaths. Could this statue truly be so fearsome? Could it nurture Heavenly Demons?


    "I haven''t seen specific Heavenly Demons myself, but practicing near it will undoubtedly induce endless illusions, breeding inner demons incessantly. The closer one gets, the greater the influence. Although it disturbs the mind, prolonged practice can hone one''s mental fortitude and enhance spiritual cultivation. In cultivation, cultivating oneself is easiest, cultivating one''s mind is the hardest, and one''s spiritual state determines one''s cultivation level. This object can cultivate one''s spiritual state and greatly strengthen the ranks of experts for the Great Dong Empire!" Beiqingsi took a deep breath and spoke seriously.


    Everyone fell into silence. Zhongshan also understood why Beiqingsi risked everything to obtain this item from the Eternal Life Realm.


    With this item, the Great Dong Empire would be able to mass-produce unparalleled experts. Experts and wise individuals were the talents the Great Dong Empire needed most. Instead of searching everywhere, it was better to create them oneself.


    "With this item, the Great Dong Empire will surely ascend another step!" Zhongshan said satisfactorily.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s satisfaction, Beiqingsi revealed a gentle smile. As long as Zhongshan was satisfied, all the suffering was worthwhile.


    "Your Majesty!" Mud Bodhisattva suddenly bowed.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan looked unexpectedly at Mud Bodhisattva.


    "ording to what the Empress mentioned, I have an idea!" Mud Bodhisattva''s eyes sparkled.


    "Oh?"


    "Using this item as the foundation, I can create a derivative realm based on a secret technique obtained from the Underworld not long ago!"


    "A derivative realm?"


    "Yes, a derivative realm specifically designed for refining the mind. Within this derivative realm, while the physical body remains, the mind can undergo a hundred reincarnations! Amidst the chaotic dance of Heavenly Demons, one can maintain steadfastness in their original intentions!" Mud Bodhisattva eximed with excitement.


    "Are you sure about this?" Zhongshan''s excitement matched Mud Bodhisattva''s.


    "ording to theory, it should be feasible. After a hundred reincarnations, even the weakest heart would be as firm as a rock! Prating through everything! Realms would infinitely ascend," Mud Bodhisattva said excitedly.


    "Good, I entrust this item to you. Before arriving at Qingzhou, I want to see this derivative realm of a hundred reincarnationsid out!" Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Understood!" Mud Bodhisattva immediately replied.


    At this moment, Emperor Xuanzha also smiled faintly, yet his eyes shimmered with deep nostalgia. In hindsight, he truly made the wisest decision for the Great Dong Empire.

 Chapter 617: The Hundred Worlds Cave

    <h4>Chapter 617: The Hundred Worlds Cave</h4>


    The Celestial Pavilion, as it journeyed, captured the hearts of countless experts. A colossal capital city, floating in the skies, unprecedented in all of history. Who else in the world could boast such a city?


    The Great Zong Dynasty, so grandiose!


    Moreover, thend of Shenzhou was vast, and even after two and a half years, news had not spread across the entire continent.


    After two and a half years, plus six months at sea, the Celestial Pavilion finally reached Qingzhou after nearly three years!


    The number of experts trailing it grew, and the entire Qingzhou gradually became the focus of the world, with countless experts gathering, awaiting the grand spectacle of the Great Zong Dynasty.


    In Guangling City of Qingzhou, as the Celestial Pavilion entered the territory of Qingzhou, 108 beams of light suddenly shot up into the sky.


    The Celestial Pavilion gradually decelerated, slowly entering the center of the 108 beams of light.


    Like the reversal of the scene at the East Sea long ago, the Celestial Pavilion eventually came to a halt.


    "Boom ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The moment the Celestial Pavilion settled, there was a slight tremor.


    Because the Celestial Pavilion was so high above the ground, it did not cast a shadow on thend below. From Qingzhou, it appeared as a mere ck dot.


    Once the Celestial Pavilion was stationary, numerous experts of the Great Zong Dynasty flew up to it.


    Led by Zhong Tian, about 8,000 members of the Da Ming Sect ascended into the sky in a vast and imposing manner.


    After a long flight, these 8,000 people, supporting each other, finally reached the Celestial Pavilion!


    Upon reaching the Celestial Pavilion, they rested briefly before proceeding to the Hall of Longevity.


    "Son greets Father Emperor!" Zhong Tian bowed respectfully upon seeing Zhong Shan.


    Dressed in imperial robes, Zhong Shan wore a faint smile.


    "Let''s go. The headquarters of the Da Ming Sect have been prepared by Mud Bodhisattva, and the construction is nearlyplete," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!"


    Leading a group, Zhong Shan flew to a newly cleared area nearby, where the scenery was picturesque and tranquil. Countless craftsmen of the Great Zong''s Ministry of Works had already built numerous grand monasteries, ready for the Da Ming Sect to settle in.


    In the center, as requested by Zhong Tian, a giant stone altar with a diameter of a thousand zhang was left, though its purpose was unknown. Naturally, Zhong Shan did not inquire further.


    "Let your people settle in first; I will take you to a ce!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Yes!" Zhong Tian nodded.


    After instructing the monks, Zhong Tian followed Zhong Shan to a restricted area within the pce.


    Guarded by numerous soldiers, no one was allowed to enter.


    They arrived at a valley surrounded by arge number of array formations and restrictions, clearly a ce of utmost importance.


    In the valley stood many of Zhong Shan''s close confidants. At least, all the empresses were present.


    Everyone was looking at a huge cave halfway up the mountain.


    The inside of the cave glowed green, with faint illusions of peerless beauties dancing within, as if the cave itself was another world.


    "Your Majesty, the derivative realm isplete!" Mud Bodhisattva said respectfully.


    "Oh? Are all the seals on the Heavenly Demon Pool removed?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The seals are undone. The illusions of the Heavenly Demon Pool were immensely formidable. Without the assistance of Emperor Xuanzha, it wouldn''t have been as sessful. Additionally, nearly all the treasured artifacts of my lineage have been expended on this derivative realm," Mud Bodhisattva said with a wry smile.


    "Treasured artifacts? There will be plenty more in the future. Whatever you invest today, you will reap a hundredfold, even a thousandfold, in return!" Zhongshan solemnly promised.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Mud Bodhisattva nodded in gratitude.


    "What is this derivative realm called?" Zhongshan asked.


    "It hasn''t been named yet. I humbly ask Your Majesty to bestow a name," Mud Bodhisattva replied.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan looked at Mud Bodhisattva with surprise. Mud Bodhisattva was learning the art of ttery now?


    "Since it allows one to experience a hundred reincarnations, let''s call it ''Hundred Worlds Cave,''" Zhongshan said firmly.


    "Yes, it shall be called ''Hundred Worlds Cave,''" Mud Bodhisattva agreed.


    "Son greets all the mothers!" Zhong Tian respectfully bowed upon seeing Bao''er and the others. The empresses nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Are there any precautions to be taken?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Generally, the first experience has the most significant effect. Itprises a hundred reincarnations, refining one''s mind. If one''s mental state deviates significantly during these reincarnations, they will be expelled from the Hundred Worlds Cave. The longer one persists in the first experience, the better the effect. The more reincarnations experienced, the greater the gain!" Mud Bodhisattva exined.


    "Has anyone tried it?" Zhongshan inquired.


    "I tested it once when setting up the Hundred Worlds Cave. Unfortunately, I only experienced seventy-four reincarnations," Mud Bodhisattva admitted.


    Seventy-four reincarnations? That meant experiencing seventy-four cycles of life and death. Zhongshan looked at Mud Bodhisattva with a peculiar expression. No wonder Mud Bodhisattva had learned the art of ttery; seventy-four reincarnations must have taught him a great many things!


    "Father Emperor, what is this?" Zhong Tian asked, his eyes full of wonder.


    Reincarnation? A hundred reincarnations? What did that mean?


    After Mud Bodhisattva exined to Zhong Tian, his eyes shone brightly. This was a method to enhance one''s mental state and wisdom, far superior to any elixir or magical herb. His father had once said, "The farther the mind can go, the farther one''s cultivation can reach." Wasn''t this the essence of that saying?


    "Today, I brought you here just to inform you of this ce. You can''t enter it for a while. Wait until the Great Zong Dynasty has sessfully ascended and everything is on the right track. Then you can enter, to avoid any unnecessary trouble in the short term," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Yes!" Zhong Tian nodded, suppressing his eagerness.


    "First, handle the affairs of the Da Ming Sect. The ascension of the Imperial Dynasty will happen soon. Also, select a few absolutely trustworthy individuals from within your sect. When the timees, they will have to queue up to enter the Hundred Worlds Cave!" Zhongshan said with a smile.


    "Yes, Father Emperor!" Zhong Tian replied with a smile.


    To the north of Qingzhou, in a pce of the Yongle Imperial Dynasty. Inside the mainmand hall,


    Fan Yipin looked at the scenes disyed on the jade tform, his expression extremely grim.


    Several strategists stood nearby, all former subordinates of Gu Xuan.


    "Mr. Fan, what do we do now? Our army has suffered repeated setbacks! This Yi Yan is too formidable! If this continues, our army will be in grave danger!" one of the strategists said worriedly.


    "Calm down! The oue is not yet decided. If you continue to unsettle the troops, you will be dealt with ording to militaryw!" Fan Yipin red at him.


    The strategist immediately fell silent.


    "Mr. Fan, it''s not that we want to unsettle the troops, but the Great Zong Dynasty''s army is truly formidable. Who would have thought that over these decades, they would amass such a force? Their three armymanders are exceptionally skilled, managing to hold an advantage against four great dynasties simultaneously for over three years without any let-up. It''s as if they had nned it all long ago. Yi Yan, a renowned schr, and those like Shui Jing and Shui Wuhen are equally remarkable?"


    "Don''t worry. Until the final moment, no one can predict the oue!" Fan Yipin said firmly.


    "Mr. Fan, do you have any ns? If this continues, our disadvantage will be more pronounced. The appearance of the Celestial Pavilion has immensely boosted the morale of the Great Zong army, while our troops'' morale has significantly declined!"


    "The Celestial Pavilion?" Fan Yipin furrowed his brow as he paced in the hall.


    He continued to pace back and forth, deep in thought, and the strategists did not dare to disturb him.


    Suddenly, Fan Yipin lifted his head, his eyes shing with a sinister gleam.


    He quickly approached the jade tform and examined the terrain closely.


    "Immediately notify the grandmanders of the other three imperial dynasties toe here at once. I have urgent matters to discuss with them," Fan Yipin instructed one of his aides.


    "Urgent matters? Mr. Fan, each dynasty is currently embroiled in intense battles. Will theye?" one of the strategists expressed concern.


    "Tell them that if they wish to destroy the Great Zong Dynasty, they muste!" Fan Yipin said with unwavering determination.


    "Destroy? Mr. Fan, have you thought of a n?" the strategist asked in surprise.


    "Go quickly!" Fan Yipinmanded coldly.


    "Yes!" The aide immediately left to arrange for some experts to go to the three imperial dynasties.


    As the Celestial Pavilion arrived in Qingzhou, Zhongshan began handling the heavy military and political responsibilities. There was no room forxity at this crucial juncture. Sess would mean the establishment of an imperial dynasty, while failure would result in utter destruction.


    Often, battles between dynasties were far more nerve-wracking than duels between two strong individuals.


    Countless experts, drawn by the Celestial Pavilion, shifted their focus from the pavilion to the Great Zong battlefield. After scrutinizing the battlefield, almost everyone was stunned.


    Was this still a dynasty? Elsewhere, it took several dynastiesbined to dare challenge an imperial dynasty. Yet here was the Great Zong, a mere dynasty, confronting four imperial dynasties. Did they think they were a celestial dynasty?


    But, this enigmatic dynasty was indeed holding its own against the imperial dynasties, and it even had the advantage.


    Was the Great Zong too strong, or were the other four imperial dynasties too weak?


    In Zhongshan''s study, Zhongshan reviewed some reports.


    Yi Yan stood before the desk.


    "Your Majesty, what do you think of these battle reports?" Yi Yan asked.


    "They seem quite normal, just as before," Zhongshan replied, frowning slightly.


    "Yes, that''s exactly why I returned from the front lines in such haste. Because everything appears normal, it all seems highly unusual. Fan Yipin, whom I''ve battled for three years, is a formidable opponent. We''ve shed numerous times on the battlefield. If not for my prior strategies, it might be me who is being defeated now. Over these three years, I''vee to understand him. Fan Yipin is definitely not someone who remains idle. Behind this calm and normal battlefield, there must be an extraordinary plot brewing. I can''t see through it right now and fear something might go wrong. I seek your counsel, Your Majesty!" Yi Yan expressed his concern.


    Looking at the intelligence reports, Zhongshan furrowed his brow deeply, pondering the situation. Clearly, he took Yi Yan''s concerns very seriously.

 Chapter 618: Recognizing Qin Shi Huang

    <h4>Chapter 618: Recognizing Qin Shi Huang</h4>


    Yi Yan returned, bringing the battlefield dilemma and awaiting Zhongshan''s decision. Zhongshan pondered for an entire night before giving Yi Yan a single piece of advice.


    "Let him be strong, as the gentle breeze brushes the hill; let him be fierce, as the bright moon illuminates the river!"


    On his way back, Yi Yan repeatedly mulled over Zhongshan''s words. After some thought, he took a deep breath and showed a relieved smile.


    "Indeed, as His Majesty said, our army holds the advantage. What do we have to worry about? As long as we proceed steadily and avoid mistakes, ultimate victory is assured. No matter how clever his tricks are, if I remain unmoved like a mountain, what can he do to me?"


    Understanding everything, Yi Yan felt much more at ease.


    Twenty dayster, in a pce within the Yongle Imperial Dynasty.


    The pce doors were tightly shut, and numerous guards stood outside, protecting the hall.


    Inside the hall, there were only four people.


    The leader was naturally Fan Yipin, the person in charge of this region for the Yongle Imperial Dynasty. The other three were grandmanders from the three other imperial dynasties.


    At this moment, the three grandmanders were all looking at Fan Yipin.


    "Mr. Fan, we have arrived. Can you now tell us your n?" one of them asked.


    Fan Yipin smiled slightly, his eyes shing with strong confidence, as if victory was within his grasp, making the three grandmanders even more eager.


    "Gentlemen, given the current situation, how long can we hold out?" Fan Yipin asked.


    "If we receive no external assistance, our dynasty can hold out for a maximum of three more years!"


    "External assistance? That''s easier said than done. In this battlefield, the surrounding dynasties are just watching. We''re fortunate they aren''t taking advantage of the situation to attack us."


    "Even a minor dynasty near us is frequently waging war against us."


    The three grandmanders shook their heads after considering the situation.


    "Hehe, the situation is indeed dire, but it''s not without hope," Fan Yipin said confidently.


    "Oh? What brilliant idea do you have, Mr. Fan?"


    The three grandmanders looked at Fan Yipin.


    "Reinforcements!" Fan Yipin said.


    "Reinforcements? How? Other imperial dynasties are just watching the show. How could we get reinforcements from them? Would they agree?"


    "If reinforcements really dide, they''d have to pass through our territory. Would you dare let them pass? What if they attack us under the guise of reinforcements?"


    Seeing the three shaking their heads, Fan Yipin didn''t lose heart. Instead, he gently shook his head.


    "Gentlemen, do you think it would be useful to bring in troops from these imperial dynasties?" Fan Yipin asked solemnly.


    "Uh?" The threemanders were slightly taken aback.


    "What do you mean, Mr. Fan?"


    "What if troops from a celestial dynasty helped us? What do you think the oue would be?" Fan Yipin smiled.


    "A celestial dynasty? Troops from a celestial dynasty? How could that be possible? They''re so far away. Which celestial dynasty woulde to help us?"


    "If celestial troops helped us, victory would be assured, and the imperial dynasties would undoubtedly make way. But would celestial troopse? Would theye south to help us?"


    "Which celestial dynasty?"


    The three grandmanders kept asking questions.


    "The Great Qin Celestial Dynasty!" Fan Yipin said with absolute certainty.


    "Oh? The Great Qin Celestial Dynasty?" The three grandmanders were slightly taken aback.


    "How do we invite them?" A glimmer of hope shed in their eyes. Since Fan Yipin had summoned them, he must have a strategy.


    Fan Yipin smiled slightly and pointed to a spot on the map in front of him.


    "You all collect intelligence, correct? What is this ce?" Fan Yipin pointed to a location on the border of the dynasties, an ungoverned area.


    "I remember now. Recently, news came that an envoy from Great Qin arrived there and has settled in," one person suddenly said.


    "Yes, it''s a Great Qin envoy, but why is he here?" another person asked in confusion.


    "No matter why he''s here, do you know who he is?" Fan Yipin smiled.


    "Who?"


    "Li Si!" Fan Yipin said solemnly.


    "Li Si?" The three evidently had not heard of him.


    "Prime Minister of Great Qin, Li Si!" Fan Yipin repeated.


    "The Prime Minister? Great Qin''s Prime Minister? Why would hee here?" one person eximed in surprise.


    "Mr. Fan, are you suggesting we ask for his help?"


    "Will he agree?" another person frowned.


    Fan Yipin shook his head, a cold gleam shing in his eyes. "Not ask him, but kill him!"


    "Hissssssss..."


    The hall was filled with the sound of the threemanders drawing sharp breaths.


    Kill him? Eliminate him? Kill the Prime Minister of a celestial dynasty? The threemanders stared at Fan Yipin in shock. This... this...


    "We... we kill the Prime Minister of Great Qin..." one person stammered nervously.


    "No, not us. Zhongshan killed the Prime Minister of Great Qin!" Fan Yipin said confidently.


    Upon hearing Fan Yipin''s words, the threemanders suddenly understood, their faces lighting up with excitement.


    "Mr. Fan, what a brilliant n!"


    "Using a borrowed knife to kill! Mr. Fan, your strategy is impressive."


    "Mr. Fan, this n will definitely bring Great Qin''s reinforcements. Even if their army doesn''te, their experts will be enough to destroy Zhongshan!"


    The threemanders looked at Fan Yipin with excitement. This n was both vicious and ingenious. Killing Li Si and framing Zhongshan would surely cause Great Qin to trouble Zhongshan. Then, with some additional provocations, they would have drawn a celestial dynasty into the conflict.


    "Once Li Si is dead, our grand n can seed!" Fan Yipin dered.


    "We await your orders, Mr. Fan!" The threemanders quickly reached a consensus.


    "Of course, there is one precondition. If it''s not met, our dynasties will copse even faster, possibly leading to our total annihtion!" Fan Yipin added.


    Hearing this, the threemanders were immediately rmed.


    "What precondition?"


    "If Li Si doesn''t die, it will greatly benefit Zhongshan. So, you must go all out, dispatch your strongest warriors, and ensure absolute sess. Otherwise, we will all perish!" Fan Yipin warned.


    Indeed, Fan Yipin''s words left the threemanders in silence. This matter was of great importance, no wonder Mr. Fan had summoned them in person instead of sending a letter.


    "Rest assured, our dynasty will send our elite warriors!"


    "And ours as well. I will even petition our emperor to personally intervene if necessary for the sake of our dynasty!"


    "Indeed, this must be foolproof."


    Thus, the three grandmanders signed a military pledge, each returning to prepare for the n to assassinate Li Si and bring down the Great Zong Dynasty.


    Within the Celestial Pavilion, in Zhongshan''s study at Tianyuan Pavilion,


    Zhongshan sat at his desk, reviewing numerous memorials. Upon seeing a purple memorial, his expression changed, and he abruptly stood up.


    "Your Majesty!" The eunuchs immediately stepped forward.


    "Summon themander of the Jinyiwei!"


    "Yes!"


    After issuing the order, Zhongshan took several deep breaths to calm himself, reading the memorial over and over, his eyes shing with intensity.


    Soon, Liu Wushuang was brought in.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty. Long live the Emperor!"


    "Hmm, Wushuang, did you deliver this memorial?"


    "Yes," Liu Wushuang replied with a hint of confusion.


    "Is the Prime Minister of Great Qin really named Li Si?" Zhongshan asked, staring intently at Liu Wushuang.


    "Absolutely. The court of the Great Qin Celestial Dynasty is very secretive, and many officials'' names are not widely known. This Li Si''s name only surfaced recently. The Prime Minister of Great Qin is currently residing near the Qingshui River region, though his purpose is unknown," Liu Wushuang responded respectfully.


    "Li Si? Li Si? Xu Fu? Ying Zheng?" Zhongshan muttered to himself.


    "Your Majesty!" Liu Wushuang called out respectfully, seeing Zhongshan''s absent-minded expression.


    "Leave," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "Yes!" Liu Wushuang immediately withdrew.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhongshan dismissed all the eunuchs from the study, leaving him alone.


    Zhongshan looked at arge map-like terrain table on the other side of the study. He located the Qingshui River region.


    "Ying Zheng? Great Qin? Xianyang? What was once just a guess now seems to be true. Qin Shi Huang?" Zhongshan said, taking a deep breath.


    "But, Ying Zheng on Earth lived over two thousand years ago, and this Ying Zheng has been dormant here in Shenzhou for two thousand years. The timelines don''t match. Different? Maybe there''s something I don''t know. Qin Shi Huang? Having such an opponent will indeed be interesting!" Zhongshan revealed a cold smile.


    "Great Qin? Bai Qi, Wang Jian, Meng Tian��so many powerful figures!" Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    Calming down, Zhongshan reviewed the geographical details.


    "Fan Yipin''s strategy must involve this Li Si, right? Heh! Since you''re in such a hurry, I''ll let you test Li Si for me!" Zhongshan smiled slightly.


    In Fan Yipin''s grand hall,


    Several experts were seated.


    Among them was Bing Xuan, along with five other peerless individuals.


    Fan Yipin nced at the group, a strange expression in his eyes. The emperors of the three great dynasties were indeed anxious; they had all sent their top experts, and there were two unfamiliar faces who seemed to be of the Heaven Extreme Realm as well.


    With five Heaven Extreme Realm experts, this n was almost certain to seed.


    "Gentlemen, I assume your grandmanders have informed you of the details. Although sending five peerless experts to kill one person may seem like overkill, this task cannot afford any mistakes," Fan Yipin said solemnly.


    "We understand your point. Hasn''t Gu Xuane?" Bing Xuan asked coldly.


    "Are five of you not enough?" Fan Yipin smiled slightly.


    The five nodded, though they were displeased that Gu Xuan hadn''te, it wasn''t worth waiting any longer.


    "Let''s go!" Bing Xuan said.


    "Please," Fan Yipin gestured.


    As they walked out of the hall, they suddenly saw a figure in the distance��a person with tattered clothes and a severed arm, looking extremely wretched, flying towards them. Fan Yipin''s face changed, showing a hint of panic.

 Chapter 619: The Terror of Li Si

    <h4>Chapter 619: The Terror of Li Si</h4>


    As everyone exited the grand hall, they suddenly saw a figure in the distance, a man in tattered clothes with a severed arm, flying towards them in a wretched state. Fan Yipin''s expression changed, revealing a hint of panic.


    "Mr. Fan, what''s wrong?" Bing Xuan frowned.


    The group looked at the approaching figure with curiosity.


    "Please wait a moment," Fan Yipin said.


    "Mr. Fan, the Emperor, the Emperor he..." the man began, but Fan Yipin quickly pulled him into the hall.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The doors of the hall mmed shut, and all the restrictions were activated, cutting off sound and spiritual perception.


    An incense stick''s timeter, the doors of the hall burst open. Fan Yipin emerged, his face pale and eyes filled with panic.


    "Gentlemen, I cannot apany you. Forgive me!" Fan Yipin apologized to the group of Heaven Extreme Realm experts.


    After apologizing, Fan Yipin''s figure blurred as he shot into the distance, disappearing from sight.


    "Heaven Extreme Realm?" Bing Xuan eximed in surprise.


    No one had expected that Fan Yipin, with his frail appearance, possessed such formidable cultivation.


    Looking towards the hall, the severed-arm man was gone, likely taken away by Fan Yipin along with his corpse.


    What had happened to cause such panic in Fan Yipin?


    "Let''s go. Even without Fan Yipin, we can stillplete our mission!" one of the emperors said.


    "Agreed," the others nodded.


    In the Qingshui River region, a small dynasty''s capital wasn''trge but had everything it needed. In the rear pce, the emperor had been expelled, and a handsome man in his forties had taken residence. Numerous scouts and experts constantly flew in and out, bringing the man updates on the situation.


    This man was Li Si.


    With his status, Li Si naturally enjoyed the best of everything. Following orders from the Great Qin Emperor, he hade to congratte Zhongshan on his ascension and to gather intelligence. During this mission, it was best to stay in a remote area.


    Thus, Li Si upied this pce. As for the pce concubines, to Li Si, they were nothing more than mundane women, amusing but not captivating.


    Every day, Li Si received reports from his scouts, analyzing them constantly.


    Today, Li Si sat in a grand hall, where the pce''s most beautiful women danced and sang before him, apanied by the finest musicians, all for his enjoyment.


    Li Si sat in the main seat, with arge bronze wine cup the size of a basin before him, filled with the finest wine of the Qingshui River region, the Qing River Wine.


    A eunuch approached to pour the wine into a smaller cup for Li Si to savor, but Li Si waved him away, as the eunuch obstructed his view of the performance.


    As he watched, Li Si''s expression suddenly changed from one of rxed enjoyment to serious and cold, his eyes shing with a chilling light.


    At the same time, five peerless experts stood on the peak of a high mountain outside the pce.


    The five looked grave.


    "The Prime Minister of Great Qin is indeed formidable," Emperor Bing Xuan said solemnly.


    "How could a celestial dynasty''s prime minister be weak?" another emperor said.


    "Everything is in ce. Once Li Si is dead, all usations will point to the Celestial Pavilion. Then, no matter how eloquent Zhongshan is, he won''t be able to clear his name," another person said.


    "Everyone, we cannot afford any mistakes at this moment. Though it may seem underhanded for the five of us to deal with just one person, for the sake of our grand n, we must go all out. At the very least, we must ensure that he loses the ability to fight back in our first strike," Bing Xuan reiterated.


    The other two emperors were not foolish and nodded in agreement.


    "Let''s go!"


    With a unanimous shout, the five Heaven Extreme Realm experts moved, surrounding the pce from above, determined to eliminate Li Si in one strike.


    Inside the grand hall, Li Si''s face showed a cold smile, a chilling aura suddenly filling the room. The temperature in the hall dropped sharply, causing the musicians and dancers to stop their performance, shivering in the cold.


    Li Si grasped the sleeve of his right arm with his left hand. He then extended his right index and middle fingers, gently tapping the wine cup before him.


    As his fingers touched the clear wine, ripples spread out. Li Si pressed his fingers down further.


    "Buzz~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Above the pce, the scene mirrored that within the wine cup. Terrifying spatial ripples emanated towards the five Heaven Extreme Realm experts.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Any tall buildings nearby were instantly shattered by the spatial ripples, and any birds caught in the waves were obliterated without a trace.


    As the five Heaven Extreme Realm experts closed in on the pce, the space at their center suddenly copsed, sending a sense of foreboding through them.


    "Buzz~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Powerful spatial ripples surged towards the five experts. They tightened their defenses, their eyes shing with rm as they quickly erected their strongest barriers.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The formation surrounding the pce expanded a hundredfold. The spatial ripples came in waves, like ripples in water, one after another.


    Though they were all Heaven Extreme Realm experts, apart from Bing Xuan who looked somewhat disheveled, they all managed to withstand the assault.


    As they steadied themselves, their hearts filled with shock. The idea of killing Li Si began to waver.


    Just as they were regaining theirposure, a handsome middle-aged man appeared in the space where the copse had urred.


    The man was handsome, but his eyes conveyed a profound sense of world-weariness and wisdom.


    Li Si!


    The hearts of the five experts tightened. Although they knew Li Si was powerful, they hadn''t expected such exaggerated strength. The spatial ripples had beenunched from a distance, and now he had appeared suddenly without anyone noticing.


    All five were now inclined to retreat.


    "Three emperors and two servants? Are you here to kill me?" Li Si asked with a cold smile.


    Hearing Li Si''s taunting words, the emperors, who had been about to retreat, suddenly paused, their eyes shing with fury. Except for Bing Xuan, the other two emperors had both risen from battlefields of corpses and bones. Without the boldness to carve out an empire, how could they have established their own dynasties?


    They hade today to kill Li Si. How could they flee now?


    "Kill!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The Heaven Extreme Realm experts shouted in unison, drawing their weapons andunching a fierce assault on Li Si.


    Three of the emperors wielded sabers, unleashing massive saber auras that rolled upyers of spatial waves, crashing towards Li Si like a celestial river. The other two wielded swords, their sword strikes creating billions of sword qi, a colossal impact aimed directly at Li Si.


    The residual impact of the battle alone destroyed the entire capital of the small dynasty, leaving the citizens with no time to scream. Even the emperor in the pce was obliterated by the shockwave before he could cry out.


    The Heaven Extreme Realm experts were overwhelmingly powerful, and thebined attack of five such experts was even more devastating.


    With powerful auras locking onto Li Si, all their might was focused on him, determined to annihte himpletely.


    Trapped in the center, Li Si showed a cold smile. He did not defend himself, nor did he take out any magical weapons. He merely extended his right index finger.


    "Zzzz..."


    From Li Si''s fingertip, a ck line appeared, stretching ten thousand zhang long, piercing straight ahead. With a flick of his hand, the ck line moved like a giant rod, slicing through the air.


    Wherever the ck line passed, it left a pitch-ck cut.


    "Spatial slicing? Heavenly..."


    Before one of the emperors could finish his sentence, the ck cut passed through his chest effortlessly, as if a de slicing through tofu.


    "Zzzz..."


    A series of slicing sounds filled the air. Anything touched by the ck cut was cleaved in two.


    It was as if the ck cut had sliced through the very fabric of the world.


    Whether it was people or weapons, nothing could resist the terrifying cut. Everything was obliterated in its path.


    The five Heaven Extreme Realm experts found themselves utterly helpless against it.


    Only the strongest of the Heavenly Extreme Realm could shatter space, and it was evident that Li Si was of that caliber.


    The experts realized toote that they had kicked an iron wall.


    In an instant, four of the Heaven Extreme Realm experts were killed. With just one move, they were obliterated. The final cut continued, heading straight for Emperor Bing Xuan.


    Fear filled Emperor Bing Xuan''s eyes. Once the hunter, he was now the hunted, unable to escape. He mustered his strongest defense, but would it hold against Li Si?


    Li Si''s face twisted into a sinister grin.


    "Boom!"


    A dull sound echoed as the ck cut suddenly vanished. Space trembled violently, and the already ruined capital turned intoplete rubble.


    Li Si squinted his eyes. Bing Xuan had survived?


    Standing in front of Bing Xuan was an old man with white hair. It was Supreme Xuanwu, Guishou. He had saved Bing Xuan just in time.


    Guishou looked at Li Si with shock.


    "Li Daoyou, was it necessary to go all out and leave no survivors right from the start? You are of the Heavenly Extreme Realm. Isn''t this behavior unbing of your status?" Guishou asked, still uncertain.


    Li Si''s expression turned dark as he looked at Guishou, then coldly nced at Bing Xuan. "If you disrupt my pleasure, you must die. When I, Li Si, decide to kill someone, they never live!"

 Chapter 620: The Nineteen-Clawed Fortune Golden Dragon

    <h4>Chapter 620: The Neen-wed Fortune Golden Dragon</h4>


    Li Si''s expression darkened as he looked at Guishou, then nced coldly at Bing Xuan. "If you disrupt my pleasure, you must die. When I, Li Si, decide to kill someone, they never live!"


    "Hahaha, what arrogance! Today, I will see how you kill him!" Guishou responded coldly, signaling Bing Xuan to escape quickly.


    With a cold snort, Li Si struck towards Bing Xuan. The surrounding space tightened, seemingly locking Bing Xuan in ce.


    Seeing Li Si''s attack, Guishou also struck out with a powerful palm.


    A massive ice-blue hand pressed towards Li Si, causing the space around it to ripple and fold.


    Seeing the blue hand, Li Si''s lips curled into a cold smile. Instead of dodging, he moved forward.


    "Boom!"


    Li Si crashed through the ice-blue hand, creating a hole.


    Guishou''s expression changed, but it was toote.


    Li Si''s palm mmed down on Bing Xuan''s head.


    Guishou''s heart tightened. He hadn''t expected Li Si to be so powerful, reaching him even with Guishou''s guard up. Instinctively, he struck towards Li Si.


    Li Si''s palm crushed Bing Xuan''s head while his other hand met Guishou''s.


    "Boom!"


    A powerful shockwave created a ck hole the size of a basin between their palms, causing the surrounding space to tremble violently. Light twisted around the center.


    When the space stabilized and the ck hole disappeared, only two figures remained.


    Bing Xuan, a formidable emperor, had been obliterated by Li Si''s palm, his remains scattering across the ground. Li Si and Guishou faced each other at a distance.


    Guishou''s eyes were filled with uncertainty. He hadn''t expected Li Si to be so powerful, strong enough to rival him. How could someone this strong serve under a celestial dynasty?


    Satisfied after killing his target, Li Si nced at Guishou with a wicked smile. With a flick of his sleeve, he vanished from Guishou''s sight.


    Guishou''s hand, hidden behind his back, was red and trembling. Even after Li Si left, Guishou didn''t make a move. The sh with Li Si had shown that Li Si was every bit his equal.


    Great Qin? How many more of such powerful figures did the Great Qin Celestial Dynasty have?


    Looking at the remains of Bing Xuan, Guishou swallowed hard, his throat dry. Taking a deep breath, Guishou seemed to age even more. He disappeared from the scene in a sh.


    In the Tianyuan Pavilion of the Celestial Pavilion,


    Zhongshan sat at his desk, reading through reports from all directions. One urgent report from the Jinyiwei detailed the epic battle in the Qingshui River region.


    The detailed ount of the battle wasid out before Zhongshan.


    "Li Si!" Zhongshan narrowed his eyes.


    Li Si''s strength was formidable.


    Zhongshan was now certain that Ying was Qin Shi Huang. But Li Si? In Zhongshan''s memory, Li Si was merely a schr. How could a schr be so powerful? And what about the military generals? Great Qin had built its nation on martial prowess!


    Taking a deep breath, Zhongshan calmed his shock.


    "Send a message to themanders of the three legions on the front lines!" Zhongshanmanded.


    Liu Wushuang stepped forward respectfully.


    "Fan Yipin of Yongle has gone missing, the three emperors of the opposing dynasties have been in, and their leaders are no more. elerate the siege process! Before the enemy''s fortune dissipates, seize it with the strongest momentum!" Zhongshan ordered calmly.


    "Yes!" Liu Wushuang responded promptly, exiting the hall quickly to ry Zhongshan''s instructions.


    Zhongshan began to pace back and forth in his study, muttering to himself, "We must stay calm and proceed steadily."


    "Emperor Bingxuan is dead, why don''t you surrender?"


    "Emperor Dacang is dead, why don''t you surrender?"


    "Emperor Dayuan is dead, why don''t you surrender?"


    "Fan Yipin is dead, why don''t you surrender?"


    On the four battlefronts, the Great Zong army shouted this shocking news, disrupting the enemy''s morale. Initially, the enemy soldiers didn''t believe it, but the truth couldn''t be hidden. As news of the princes'' ascensions spread, the opposing armies copsed like andslide, unable to maintain their formations.


    The Great Zong army seized city after city in a frenzy. Many city lords, after negotiating with Great Zong''s envoys, even defected, worsening the situation for the four opposing dynasties.


    In just one year, the Great Zong army reached the capitals of these imperial dynasties. During this year, the Great Zong legions advanced rapidly, capturing cities in quick session as if they were reiming their own territory.


    The speed of these conquests was astounding.


    In the end, such battles typically culminate in a confrontation between kings. However, the new emperors of these dynasties were too young and inexperienced. The seasoned legionmanders of Great Zong were more than capable of handling them. Zhongshan merely sat in the Celestial Pavilion, umting vast fortunes.


    A tremendous amount of fortune gathered from all directions. Unknown to everyone, this fortune was filtered through Zhongshan''s Fang Tian Jade Seal and the Investiture of the Gods list, further enriching the sky above.


    Fortune, an immense amount of golden fortune, continually amassed, making the sky above the Celestial Pavilion shine with a dazzling golden light. From a distance, it looked like another sun, incredibly bright.


    Four imperial dynasties'' worth of fortune��what dynasty in history has ever had such abundance during an ascension?


    In the past, when dynasties ascended to empires, their fortune was meager at best, the least among empires. But Great Zong, which other imperial dynasty couldpare?


    Countless experts attracted by the Celestial Pavilion were already wide-eyed with amazement.


    This fortune was astonishingly abundant. Though not as much as a celestial dynasty, it wasparable to half of one. So thick, so much? The Great Zong Dynasty was extraordinarily powerful.


    Ascension? Yes, the ascension was imminent.


    With the fall of the opposing dynasties, Great Zong''s fortune increased at an extreme rate.


    The legionmanders had returned to the Celestial Pavilion; the capitals of the four dynasties had fallen. Capturing the remaining cities no longer required the strategic brilliance of thesemanders.


    At the Celestial Pavilion, before the Hall of Longevity, a grand stage was erected.


    Zhongshan stood atop, with the Fang Tian Jade Seal and the Investiture of the Gods list ced before him.


    Below the stage stood civil and military officials, key figures of Great Zong, numerous empresses, legionmanders, the crown prince, Emperor Xuanzha, and others.


    This time, Zhongshan needed only to worship the heavens, no longer the earth.


    Below, countless Great Zong officials stood respectfully, while themon people knelt in worship.


    Zhongshan suddenly knelt and performed a three-bow and nine-kowtow ritual to the heavens.


    After the ritual, Zhongshan stood up, held the Investiture of the Gods list high, and proimed loudly:


    "The Great Zong Dynasty worships the heavens. I, Zhongshan, establish the Great Zong Dynasty under the mandate of heaven, to govern the people and bring peace to thend, acknowledging the merits of the gods.


    The Great Zong receives the protection of heaven and earth, flourishing with prosperity, blessed with boundless fortune. The current dynasty cannot bear this fortune, hence we humbly request the heavens to bestow upon the Great Zong Dynasty the title of an empire, to establish the Imperial legacy, and to seal the title of Emperor of Heaven!"


    As Zhongshan''s words echoed, he threw the Investiture of the Gods list into the sky. Suddenly, the list emitted countless rays of golden light, connecting directly with the sea of fortune in the sky. The golden light merged with the sea of fortune, creating a connection.


    The Investiture of the Gods list trembled slightly, causing the vast sea of fortune to churn violently. The fortune gathered and dispersed, gathered and dispersed, like boiling water, as if it were nurturing something.


    Zhongshan watched intently. Below, civil and military officials, endless guards, all knelt in reverence, waiting for the heavens to bestow the ''Middle Position of the Imperial Dynasty''.


    Zhongshan held the Fang Tian Jade Seal in his hands, gazing at the sea of fortune. Around the Celestial Pavilion, many super experts, including Li Si, the Prime Minister of Great Qin, watched the sea of fortune intently.


    The churning sea of fortune captured everyone''s attention.


    This waitingsted nearly four days, precisely eighty-one hours. The sea of fortune in the sky had condensed into a massive spherical form, an elliptical fortune ball. Suddenly, the Fang Tian Jade Seal in Zhongshan''s hands emitted a dazzling golden light.


    "Crack~~~~~~~~"


    A crisp sound came from the fortune ball, which began to crack.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A tremendous dragon roar, shaking heaven and earth, emanated from the fortune ball. The roar was so powerful that it spread across all thends of the Great Zong Dynasty, including the newly conquered territories of the four imperial dynasties.


    On the Celestial Pavilion, almost everyone felt their ears vibrating as if they were about to burst. However, despite the overwhelming roar, no one was injured, not even ordinary people.


    With the dragon''s roar, a pair of majestic golden dragon horns emerged from the fortune ball, followed by a colossal dragon head, then the body. The immense fortune golden dragon finally took shape as the Great Zong ascended.


    The fortune golden dragon slowly flew out, its mighty presence causing an instinctive tremor in everyone''s hearts. As the dragon''s body swayed, it created terrifying spatial ripples.


    The fortune golden dragon''s entire form emerged, and with just a nce, it felt as if one''s heart was being heavily suppressed. Countless bolts of lightning shot from the dragon''s horns, reaching into the sky.


    The dragon''s aura was far stronger than that of a typical imperial dynasty''s fortune dragon. Its size was muchrger, and most importantly, a typical imperial dynasty''s fortune dragon had no more than nine ws��ranging from five to nine ws, indicating the strength of the dynasty. However, the fortune golden dragon of the Great Zong had neen formidable ws, surpassing even the strongest imperial dynasties by ten ws.


    From a distance, on the ground,


    "Neen? A neen-wed fortune golden dragon? How can this be? How does it have neen ws?" Li Si eximed in shock.

 Chapter 621: The Greatest Emperor of All Time

    <h4>Chapter 621: The Greatest Emperor of All Time</h4>


    "Neen? A neen-wed fortune golden dragon? How can this be? How does it have neen ws?" Li Si eximed in shock.


    Li Si''s astonishment was understandable. In all the imperial dynasties, the fortune golden dragon had at most nine ws. Only at the celestial dynasty level did the fortune golden dragon''s ws double to eighteen, transforming into a court projection and nurturing the gods'' images in the heavens.


    But thispletely overturned Li Si''s understanding. Neen ws? How could a newly ascended imperial dynasty form a neen-wed fortune golden dragon?


    Li Si''s eyes flickered with uncertainty, struggling to suppress his overwhelming shock.


    On the Celestial Pavilion,


    Zhongshan held the Fang Tian Jade Seal. The red pearl that suppressed the nine dragons on the seal was emitting a faint red light, alternating between bright and dark shades. The bright red signified vibrant life, while the dark red hid profound death.


    The red pearl seemed to have a mysterious connection with the neen-wed golden dragon. Through the Fang Tian Jade Seal, a part of Zhongshan''s spirit seemed to merge with the dragon.


    The neen-wed golden dragon swam through the sky, as if taking Zhongshan''s spirit on a majestic flight. A sense of domineering satisfaction erupted from Zhongshan''s spirit, and the golden dragon suddenly radiated countless rays of golden light, illuminating the world.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    As Zhongshan reveled in the moment, the neen-wed fortune golden dragon roared again, shaking the heavens. This roar created colorful clouds in the sky, dazzlingly bright.


    The dragon''s formidable horns emitted billions of lightning bolts, piercing through the heavens, connecting with the celestial mechanisms.


    A powerful aura descended.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor!"


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor!"


    Cheers echoed from all around the Celestial Pavilion.


    The neen-wed fortune golden dragon descended, coiling itself. Its immense body, spanning neen thousand zhang, formed a massive dragon mountain.


    The shell that had nurtured the fortune golden dragon spread out once more, covering the Celestial Pavilion with countlessyers of fortune, creating a misty, cloud-like backdrop for the enormous dragon.


    Its horns pointed skyward, exuding extraordinary fortune.


    Everything seemed to be over, but at this moment, more fortune inexplicably gathered above the Celestial Pavilion,yer uponyer, increasing the fortune even further.


    From a distance, Li Si''s eyes widened again.


    "Where is this fortuneing from?" Li Si muttered, utterly incredulous.


    Simultaneously, in the underworld, outside the Forbidden Zone, the Great Zong Dynasty.


    In front of the Undying Hall of the Great Zong Dynasty, a grand tform was erected, mirroring the one in the living world. Officials knelt in reverence.


    Today marked the Great Zong Dynasty''s ascension, and everyone stood respectfully.


    Zhongshan stood on the tform, observing the boundless fortune. Unlike other dynasties'' ascensions where fortune increased, the fortune here was mysteriously decreasing, lessening more and more.


    The officials felt a growing sense of unease. Was this an ascension or a decline?


    Was this an ascension to an imperial dynasty, or a regression to a mere kingdom?


    Despite their infinite doubts, no one dared to ask.


    Zhongshan watched as the fortune slowly decreased, a look of satisfaction shing in his eyes.


    The fortune of Zhongshan''s dynasty was different from that of a typical imperial dynasty. While other dynasties ascended through a celestial imperial seal, Zhongshan used his own seal. The fortune of other dynasties still belonged to the heavens and earth, bestowed by them. However, Zhongshan''s fortune was entirely his own, deeply imprinted with his mark. This was the marvel of the "Creation of the Celestial Court."


    The Great Zong Dynasty, in both the yin and yang realms, was essentially just one entity, a single person, hence it did not ascend twice. Zhongshan''s fortune was naturally capable of being divided between the two realms.


    Now, Zhongshan was transferring this fortune back to the yang realm. Under the suppression of the fortune golden dragon, he was securing the imperial title, and simultaneously, using the dragon''s fortune to create another golden dragon avatar in the underworld.


    The fortune continued to diminish until it was almost entirely gone, leaving the officials in a state of shock.


    "Whoosh..."


    As if reaching a turning point, an endless amount of fortune suddenly reappeared, growing more and more, eventually forming a massive spherical fortune.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a dragon''s roar, a fortune golden dragon identical to the one in the yang realm was born, its roar resonating throughout the world.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor!"


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor!"


    As the crowd cheered, the fortune golden dragon slowly coiled, forming a massive dragon mountain over the city of Changjing.


    In the yang realm, below the Celestial Pavilion,


    Li Si was left speechless. The sudden reappearance of the fortune was already bizarre, but it disappearing again so quickly? Zhongshan''s dynasty might be small, but it was incredibly peculiar.


    On the Celestial Pavilion, Zhongshan stood on the high tform, not yet finished.


    Staring at the stable fortune in the sky, Zhongshan suddenly shouted:


    "The national religion is the Great Ming, let infinite merit arise~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Many of the onlookers were puzzled by his deration.


    Infinite merit? What''s that? Aren''t you a dynasty? Aren''t you supposed to be collecting fortune? Why suddenly talk about merit? Merit was something collected by sects and holynds. How could an imperial dynasty be involved in merit?


    In the headquarters of the Great Ming Sect, at the Great Ming Temple, in the location where Mud Bodhisattva had left a stone altar during his feng shui setup, a nine-story giant tower, the Spirit Resting Tower, appeared out of nowhere.


    The Spirit Resting Tower suddenly radiated golden light, illuminating the already golden sky even more brightly. Suddenly, from within the tower, an infinite amount of merit burst forth.


    Merit, though simr in color to fortune, was distinctly different.


    The golden yellow of fortune carried a radiant nobility, an imperial majesty that spread across the world. The golden yellow of merit, however, carried a heavy sense of simplicity and purity.


    It was like the difference between the emperor''s robes and the monk''s robes. Though both were yellow, any discerning eye could instantly tell which was which.


    Endless merit burst forth from the Spirit Resting Tower. Arge portion of this merit had been reimed from the Blissful Pure Land, and much more existed even before that remation. This merit, refined by the Spirit Resting Tower, had be extremely pure.


    The immense merit,parable in quantity to the fortune, spread out below the fortuneyer, separated by a distance of ten zhang, creating a dualyered sky.


    The enormous neen-wed fortune golden dragon, appearing somewhat dissatisfied, shifted its body, its dragon eyes ring as it exuded an overwhelming aura. Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed, and a powerful will surged towards the golden dragon. Feeling Zhongshan''s discontent, the golden dragon reluctantly settled back into its coiled position.


    The numerous onlookers were stunned. What was this? Twoyers? It seemed so unconventional and strange.


    Apart from Zhongshan and his son, everyone else showed expressions of confusion and uncertainty. What was the Great Zong doing?


    Of course, Zhongshan did not yet have the ability to send merit to the underworld, so that would have to wait.


    In the distance, Li Si frowned deeply, muttering to himself, "Fortune? Merit? Has Zhongshan also discovered it? The Eternal Sacred tform? It must be from that time. This Zhongshan is truly not a simple person!"


    In front of the Hall of Longevity, atop the high tform,


    Zhongshan closed his eyes slightly, feeling the boundless fortune descending upon him, and even the significant merit umting on him. However, these two enhancements seemed to counteract and diminish each other.


    The sensation was very peculiar. Before the merit descended upon him, Zhongshan felt his cultivation speed had increased by forty times, a significant boost.


    To understand this, a mid-level position equated to ten times the cultivation speed, while a high-level position was a hundred times. Zhongshan was well aware that his forty-fold increase was mainly due to the red pearl on the Fang Tian Jade Seal, which seemed to possess immense power.


    However, with the merit now upon him, the initial forty-fold increase was reduced to thirty-fold. The merit and fortune were counterbncing each other, making Zhongshan the sacrificial point. Yet, Zhongshan had no regrets.


    Compared to his grand vision, what did an additional tenfold speed matter? Besides, with his Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, a short-term increase in cultivation was not something Zhongshan worried about.


    Opening his eyes gently, Zhongshan took a deep breath.


    "Heaven and Earth mandate, mid-level, the Great Zong Empire! Arise~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The Great Zong Empire! Arise!


    At this moment, Zhongshan dered to the world that the Great Zong Empire was officially established, firmly standing on thend of Shenzhou. The imperial endeavor, the empire''s foundation, was nowid. Zhongshan had achieved the empire''s legacy, henceforth known as ''Emperor Zhongshan.''


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor!"


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor!"


    In both the underworld and the yang realm, the Great Zong Empire was simultaneously established. Zhongshan had achieved the ultimate imperial legacy.


    The first emperor of both the yin and yang realms, the first emperor to have both fortune and merit in his empire, the first emperor with a neen-wed fortune golden dragon... so many firsts, unprecedented, making Zhongshan the Greatest Emperor of All Time!

 Chapter 622: The Four Great Celestial Dynasties

    <h4>Chapter 622: The Four Great Celestial Dynasties</h4>


    The Imperial Dynasty is the mainstream power in thend of Shenzhou. Only by achieving the status of an Imperial Dynasty can one participate in the grand affairs of the world. Across the entire Shenzhou, there are only a little over a hundred Imperial Dynasties.


    Zhongshan has now, in terms of strength, status, and influence, entered the circle of Shenzhou''s power struggles.


    Faced with the emerging era of chaos, the ascension of the Great Zong Empire could not havee at a better time.


    After the ceremonial offerings to heaven, the Great Zong Empire sessfully ascended. Everything was about to enter a new era. Zhongshan put away the Fang Tian Jade Seal and the Investiture of the Gods list and descended from the high tform.


    Many ceremonial officials quickly cleaned up the surroundings, even dismantling the newly erected tform. After the officials and citizens cheered for the emperor''s long life, the celebration began.


    At this moment, in every city of the Great Zong Empire, banquets wereid out to celebrate the ascension. It was the first grand banquet of the Great Zong Empire.


    Below the Celestial Pavilion, Li Si looked at the stabilized Great Zong, brushed off the wrinkles on his clothes, and muttered to himself, "It''s time."


    With a step, Li Si flew towards the Celestial Pavilion.


    As he approached, he suddenly heard:


    "The Emperor of the Great Li Celestial Dynasty congrattes the Great Zong Empire on its sessful ascension~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    In front of the Hall of Longevity, Zhongshan had not yet entered the hall when a group of people quickly flew over. These were envoys from the Great Li Celestial Dynasty, Zhongshan''s allied dynasty. The leading envoy, Marquis Shaofei, was granted permission to enter the Celestial Pavilion.


    With the sessful ascension of the Great Zong Empire, Marquis Shaofei performed the appropriate court etiquette and presented the gifts from the Great Li Celestial Dynasty.


    "Thank the Emperor of the Great Li~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Zhongshan returned the salute.


    With a wave of his hand, many ceremonial officials received the gifts.


    "The Great Li Celestial Dynastyes to congratte, and the Great Zong is grateful~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    "The Great Li Celestial Dynastyes to congratte, and the Great Zong is grateful~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Officials from the Ministry of Rites ryed this messageyer byyer, spreading it throughout the Celestial Pavilion and to every corner of the Great Zong Empire.


    Below the Celestial Pavilion, numerous onlookers were astonished upon hearing the announcement. The Great Li Celestial Dynasty? That''s in the northern part of Shenzhou, while the Great Zong is in the southernmost part. How could they be connected? Yet, they sent an envoy to congratte an ascended Imperial Dynasty?


    People''s surprise was understandable. The Great Li Celestial Dynasty was a celestial dynasty, while the Great Zong was merely an Imperial Dynasty. It was unheard of for a celestial dynasty to congratte an Imperial Dynasty.


    "This Great Zong Empire sure has a lot of influence!"


    "Indeed, it''s unprecedented for a celestial dynasty to send congrattions!"


    As the onlookers marveled, another announcement was heard.


    "The Emperor of the Great Qin Celestial Dynasty congrattes the Great Zong Empire on its sessful ascension~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Li Si, having performed the proper etiquette,nded on the za before the Hall of Longevity.


    The Great Qin? Zhongshan was slightly surprised, but as the saying goes, "a guest is a guest." Zhongshan naturally received him with courtesy.


    "Thank the Emperor of the Great Qin~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Li Si presented a gift, which the ceremonial officials promptly epted.


    Li Si nodded and stepped aside, exchanging a brief nce with Marquis Shaofei. Both acknowledged each other with a nod, each harboring their own thoughts.


    "The Great Qin Celestial Dynastyes to congratte, and the Great Zong is grateful~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    As the news spread far and wide, countless experts were left in astonishment.


    Everyone knew that the Great Zong Empire was powerful, but this was beyond their expectations. Two celestial dynasties already, and now another? The mysterious Great Qin Celestial Dynasty?


    "This is unbelievable! The Great Zong Empire is really blessed," murmured a man in the crowd.


    "The Emperor of the Great Taisui Celestial Dynasty congrattes the Great Zong Empire on its sessful ascension~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A loud voice,ing from afar and drawing closer, interrupted everyone''s shocked thoughts. Another celestial dynasty?


    How formidable was the Great Zong Empire to warrant such extravagant recognition?


    Zhongshan recognized the neer��Monk Sekong��who had changed into official robes. When he looked at Zhongshan, his gaze flickered, showing his extreme fear of Zhongshan. Had it not been for the purpose of delivering congrattions, Monk Sekong would never have dared toe.


    Sekong''s task was to gather intelligence on the Great Zong Empire, with the ascension celebration being the prime opportunity.


    As he approached, Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed, a cold gleam shing in them. Sekong, sensitive to the atmosphere, shivered, fearfully looking at Zhongshan.


    "Thank the Emperor of the Great Taisui~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" Zhongshan''s tone was slightly stiff.


    Li Si watched Zhongshan with a slight smile, while Marquis Shaofei pondered silently. Sekong dared not move recklessly.


    "The Great Taisui Celestial Dynastyes to congratte, and the Great Zong is grateful~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    As the ceremonial officials ryed the message, the onlookers widened their eyes.


    "Another celestial dynasty? The Great Taisui Celestial Dynasty? Did I hear that right?"


    "Three celestial dynastiesing to congratte the Great Zong? This is unprecedented!"


    "This is indeed a grand event! The Great Zong Empire has certainly made its mark!"


    The experts'' admiration for Zhongshan increased manifold. The Great Zong Empire was proving to be incredibly powerful. Then, something even more surprising happened.


    "The Emperor of the Great Yong Celestial Dynasty congrattes the Great Zong Empire on its sessful ascension~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A voice from a distance reached the crowd.


    The Great Yong Celestial Dynasty? Everyone was stunned.


    The Great Yong Celestial Dynasty? But there were only three celestial dynasties in Shenzhou. Was this person an impostor?


    People could only specte, as no one dared to voice their doubts openly.


    Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed, a look of confusion shing in them.


    The figure in the distance quickly approached.


    Zhongshan recognized the neer as well��Huan Tulong, former Grand Tutor of the Da Luo Celestial Dynasty. After the four princes split the Da Luo Celestial Dynasty, Huan Tulong and other loyalists followed the eldest prince, Gu Zhengyi, and established the Yong Dynasty. Huan Tulong, once a nominal foster father to Gu Qianyou, was now the emperor of the Great Yong.


    "Huan Tulong? The Great Yong Celestial Dynasty? Could Gu Zhengyi have resurrected a celestial dynasty using the old Da Luo foundation so quickly? Incredible!" Zhongshan thought.


    "Huan Tulong, we meet again. What brings you here?" Zhongshan asked, puzzled.


    "The former Duke of the East has now be an emperor; congrattions are in order. The Great Yong Celestial Dynasty''s establishment wasn''t long before the Great Zong. Thete Da Luo Emperor had long nned for the future. The Da Luo loyalists have joined the Great Yong, now ruled by our current emperor. Just recently, the Great Yong officially became a celestial dynasty," Huan Tulong exined.


    Zhongshan suddenly realized why Fan Yipin had left abruptly. There must have been changes in the eastern part of Shenzhou.


    "During the early days of the celestial dynasty, the Emperor of the Great Yong thought of Zhongshan. I thank the Emperor of the Great Yong!" Zhongshan returned the salute.


    "The Great Yong Celestial Dynasty congrattes the Great Zong Empire on its sessful ascension~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    As the ceremonial officials ryed the message, nearly all the observing experts were left dumbfounded. They couldn''t quite grasp why they were so stunned, as each piece of news seemed increasingly surreal, as if the entire world had changed without notice.


    Another celestial dynasty? The Great Yong Celestial Dynasty?


    Four celestial dynasties? Even if there were four celestial dynasties, it was unprecedented for them to collectively congratte an imperial dynasty.


    "Everyone, pleasee inside," Zhongshan gestured, formally inviting the envoys of the four celestial dynasties into the Hall of Longevity.


    "The Great Zong Emperor, please lead the way!"


    Zhongshan did not stand on ceremony, as he was the host. He entered the hall first.


    Following him, the envoys of the four celestial dynasties entered, apanied by several high-ranking officials of the Great Zong Empire.


    The Hall of Longevity had been rearranged for the asion.


    Zhongshan took the main seat at the northernmost position, the highest ce. Below him on the second tier were his three empresses, Bao''er, Ling''er, and Bei Qingsi, who took their seats gracefully.


    On the third tier, the lowest level, the seats were arranged in two rows. On the left side, in order of arrival, were Shaofei Marquis, Li Si, Monk Sekong, and Huan Tulong.


    On the right side sat Zhong Tian, Emperor Xuanzha, Yi Yan, Shui Wuhen, Shui Jing, Zhao Suoxiang, and Wang Ku.


    Once seated, the guests from the celestial dynasties directed their gazes with particr interest.


    Shaofei Marquis nced at Zhong Tian, showing slight surprise��not at Zhong Tian''s identity, but at the integration of the religious leader of the Great Ming Sect into the state apparatus.


    Li Si directed his gaze toward Empress Gan Bao''er, his pupils slightly contracting and his brow furrowing. Bao''er, feeling Li Si''s gaze, calmly returned it, nodding slightly as a form of courtesy. Acknowledging the gesture, Li Si nodded back and looked away.


    Monk Sekong focused on Wang Ku, his keen senses causing his eyelids to twitch. He felt an overwhelming sense of dread emanating from Wang Ku, making him the second most terrifying presence in the hall, after Zhongshan.


    Huan Tulong nced at the second tier, particrly the three empresses, his brow furrowing slightly in disappointment as he failed to find the person he was searching for��Gu Qianyou, the nominal foster daughter of the Great Yong Emperor.


    The envoys from the four celestial dynasties had varying expressions, but soonposed themselves and turned their attention to Zhongshan.


    Before each of them was a small table with the finest dishes of the Great Zong Empire.


    Zhongshan looked at the four envoys, understanding that each hade with different intentions. With a faint smile, he lifted a cup of wine and said, "It is a great honor for Zhongshan that you havee to attend the first banquet of the Great Zong Empire. I toast to you all with this cup!"


    "The Great Zong Emperor is too kind!" The four envoys lifted their cups in response.


    Regardless of their personal thoughts, they had to follow the formalities. The first toast of the banquet was obligatory.


    Zhongshan drank first as a gesture of respect, and the others followed suit, downing their cups, signaling the official start of the banquet. With the initial toast concluded, it was time to discuss matters openly.

 Chapter 623: Feast for Guests

    <h4>Chapter 623: Feast for Guests</h4>


    After downing a cup of wine, Zhongshan turned his gaze to the four envoys, starting with Huan Tulong.


    "It has been decades since west met, and I fondly remember the days when we served together in the same court," Zhongshan smiled.


    "In the days of the Da Luo Celestial Dynasty, the Duke of the East was indeed one of the most legendary officials. In just a few decades, you achieved feats unprecedented in Da Luo''s history, rising from an unknown official to a first-ss duke. Only the Duke of the East had such capability," Huan Tulong praised as he looked at Zhongshan.


    "Huan Taishi is too kind. I haven''t been to the East for a long time. How are the other three princes'' dynasties faring now?" Zhongshan asked, his eyes fixed on Huan Tulong.


    Huan Tulong frowned but maintained his smile. "The four princes were originally part of Da Luo. When the Great Yong ascended, they naturally submitted to the Great Yong. However..."


    "Oh?" Zhongshan''s gaze intensified.


    Submission? It was more like war. Although Zhongshan had not been to the East recently, news from the East continued to flow in. The four princes of the former Da Luo Celestial Dynasty had been embroiled in fierce battles, dragging in four nearby imperial dynasties, resulting in an eight-dynasty war. Blood flowed like rivers.


    "Spring and Autumn Emperor Gu Zhantian and Great Tang Emperor Gu Taizong have submitted to Great Yong and been granted the titles of King Zhantian and King Taizong. As for the Yongle Emperor Gu Xuan, he unfortunately perished during the process of submission," Huan Tulong said with a sigh of regret.


    "Gu Xuan was killed by Gu Zhengyi?" Zhongshan asked, surprised.


    Huan Tulong''s brows furrowed as he responded solemnly, "Gu Xuan was not killed by the Emperor; it was his own doing. Duke of the East, mind your words."


    Gu Xuan was dead?


    "I misspoke. The Da Luo Celestial Dynasty no longer exists, and Huan Taishi need not address me as the Duke of the East anymore," Zhongshan shook his head.


    "The Da Luo Celestial Dynasty no longer exists? Isn''t the current Great Yong simr to Da Luo?" Huan Tulong shook his head and smiled.


    Zhongshan''s face stiffened, his heart filled with coldughter. So, Gu Zhengyi still had designs on him?


    "Great Yong is Great Yong; Da Luo is Da Luo. Gu Shentong is the person I respect the most. He sacrificed himself to create a new world. Without Gu Shentong, Da Luo no longer exists!" Zhongshan dered firmly.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s resolute attitude, a sh of anger crossed Huan Tulong''s eyes, but he maintained hisposure. "Alright, since the Great Zong Emperor says so, I will not mention it again."


    "I toast to Huan Taishi!" Zhongshan raised his cup again.


    Huan Tulong raised his cup as well, and the two drank in a silent toast.


    "May I ask where Princess Qianyou of Great Yong is?" Huan Tulong put down his cup and suddenly asked.


    Zhongshan''s coldughter increased internally. As expected, Gu Zhengyi''s schemes were unending. Qianyou? Luckily, Qianyou had gone to the underworld; otherwise, they would have used her for countless plots.


    Zhongshan also felt a great deal of admiration. The once seemingly most mediocre and ipetent prince turned out to be the strongest. Not only did he possess extraordinary tactics and strategies, but his cultivation was also astonishing. Establishing a celestial dynasty required the emperor to be at least at the Heaven Extreme Realm. Gu Zhengyi had always kept his true strength hidden, which was why Gu Shentong never changed his status as the eldest prince.


    "Qianyou is my empress. She has gone to a mysterious ce, and I cannot disclose its location. However, if someone from the Great Yong Celestial Dynasty happens to reach that ce, please convey my greetings to Qianyou," Zhongshan smiled.


    "Certainly!" Huan Tulong nodded.


    Certainly? Huan Tulong was really nning to find Gu Qianyou? Unfortunately, they were now in two different worlds. Even if they died, they could only pass on Zhongshan''s greetings, unable to make any schemes.


    "Monk Sekong, we meet again. I didn''t expect you to hold such a significant position in the Great Taisui Celestial Dynasty?" Zhongshan turned to Monk Sekong with a cold smile on his face.


    Li Si, Huan Tulong, and Shaofei Marquis all noticed Zhongshan''s coldness towards Monk Sekong. Each of them exchanged nces, but none said a word, merely observing calmly. From then on, they would undoubtedly keep a closer watch on Monk Sekong.


    "In war between two dynasties, envoys are not to be harmed, especially since I am here to congratte you today. You can''t kill me!" Monk Sekong shouted in panic.


    One couldn''t say Monk Sekongcked courage orposure, but his keen senses had clearly felt a surge of killing intent just now. Others might not have noticed, but at the moment Zhongshan''s killing intent emerged, it was met with a palpable wave of simr intent from the powerful figures opposite him.


    Among those facing him were some formidable individuals. Monk Sekong knew little about Wang Ku, but he was well aware of Emperor Xuanzha''s capabilities. Xuanzha was on par with the likes of the Divine Crow Daoist��a supreme powerhouse. If he wanted to kill Monk Sekong, no amount of time to escape would change the inevitable oue.


    Monk Sekong''s loud plea was partly to emphasize that Zhongshan could not kill him and partly in the hope that Zhongshan would consider the bigger picture. If the Great Zong were to gain a reputation for killing envoys, it would be a significant stain. In such a case, Monk Sekong would survive. As forposure, in the face of death, it could go to hell. The dead had no need forposure.


    Seeing Monk Sekong''s fearful outburst, Ling''er covered her mouth in amusement, while Bei Qingsi and Bao''er merely nced at him withoutment.


    "Heh!" Zhongshan let out a cold chuckle.


    "Don''t worry, I won''t kill you, at least not now. Convey my regards to Lu Guitian," Zhongshan said, suppressing his killing intent.


    "Yes, Monk Sekong will faithfully deliver the message to the Great Zong Emperor," Monk Sekong responded quickly.


    "Hmm!" Zhongshan nodded.


    "Oh, I just remembered, my emperor instructed me to congratte the Great Zong on its ascension and also to go to another location. I must apologize for having to leave abruptly. Duty calls, and I must go. Please forgive me for disrupting your celebration," Monk Sekong said, standing up to leave hurriedly.


    "Oh? Truly?" Zhongshan eyed him sharply.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s piercing gaze, Monk Sekong''s nerves tensed further, but he steeled himself and replied, "Absolutely true. I apologize for the disruption."


    "Very well. Wang Ku, see Monk Sekong out," Zhongshan said.


    Hearing this, Monk Sekong''s hair stood on end.


    "No need, no need! Really, there''s no need. I can find my way out. Thank you for your concern," Monk Sekong said hastily.


    "Alright then, farewell," Zhongshan said.


    "Not at all, no trouble. Goodbye!" Monk Sekong said, then quickly exited the hall.


    In no time, Monk Sekong had vanished from sight.


    Li Si, Huan Tulong, and Shaofei Marquis watched the ''cowardly'' Monk Sekong with bewilderment. Was this really an envoy from a celestial dynasty? How could such a person be an envoy? What a joke!


    Outside the Hall of Longevity, Monk Sekong didn''t stop until he was far from the Celestial Pavilion, wiping the cold sweat from his brow.


    "Damn it, this ce is a dragon''s den! Zhongshan is too terrifying. Every time I see him, the threat increases. Good thing I was quick to run. Time to get out of here," Monk Sekong muttered.


    Back in the Hall of Longevity, Li Si spoke first.


    "Great Zong Emperor!" Li Si made a formal Qin salute with both hands.


    "Oh? Prime Minister Li?" Zhongshan looked at Li Si.


    "Great Zong Emperor is a straightforward person, so I''ll be direct as well," Li Si said with a smile.


    Zhongshan could indeed be straightforward, but it depended on the context. With friends, he was forthright, but with strangers, he could be as cunning as a fox, engaging in lengthy conversations without touching the main topic. However, Li Si''s approach suggested he wanted to get straight to the point to avoid the roundabout talk that Zhongshan might employ.


    "Please go ahead, Prime Minister Li."


    "The dragon n is our Great Qin''s national beast. I''ve heard that a legendary imperial seal belonging to the dragon n has fallen into the Great Zong Empire''s hands. Might the Great Zong Emperor return it? The dragon n will provide equivalentpensation to make up for the Great Zong''s loss," Li Si stated directly.


    Li Si knew that talking to Zhongshan required directness. Any attempt to be indirect would be met with equal deflection from Zhongshan, as seen with Huan Tulong''s earlier attempt.


    "A legendary imperial seal?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows slightly.


    Emperor Xuanzha also nced at Li Si with a furrowed brow.


    "Yes, the legendary imperial seal!" Li Si emphasized.


    "Prime Minister Li should know who took the seal, correct?"


    "Hao Meili!"


    "That''s right, it was her. I can tell you honestly, the seal is not in the Great Zong Empire. As for Hao Meili, she left the Great Zong decades ago. I have no idea where she went," Zhongshan said, shaking his head.


    Zhongshan was telling the truth. The seal had long since been absorbed as energy and no longer existed. As for Hao Meili, her whereabouts were unknown. These two truths, however, subtly redirected the listeners'' thoughts towards an unknown direction, following Zhongshan''s principle of letting others deal with their own problems.


    As expected, Li Si frowned.


    "Thank you, Great Zong Emperor, for being candid," Li Si said, frowning.


    Li Si could tell that Zhongshan was likely not lying, but there was a sense of redirection in his words. Li Si wanted to ask more but decided against it after ncing at Gan Bao''er.


    The legendary seal was important to the dragon n, but it was not as significant as the presence behind Gan Bao''er, an acquaintance from the Great Thousand World. Li Si didn''t want to provoke any emotional reaction from Gan Bao''er, as it might attract the attention of that powerful figure. Li Si preferred to avoid confrontation with that figure from the Great Thousand World, at least for the time being.


    Shaofei Marquis''s words were naturally congrattory.


    The three envoys, possessing near-demonic wisdom, ensured that the banquet proceeded smoothly, leaving everyone satisfied.


    After sending off the envoys, Zhongshan returned to the hall and addressed the assembly.


    "Your Majesty, the chaos in Shenzhou has begun. What should we do next?" Shui Wuhen asked first.


    "This is just the beginning. The chaos will not subside easily. A great war will inevitably sweep across Shenzhou in the future. For now, our empire will remain still. We must fortify our current territories, conserve our strength, and wait for the true peak of the chaos to arrive," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Understood!" Themanders nodded in agreement.


    "Furthermore, in theing period, each of you will take turns entering the Hundred Worlds Cave to refine yourselves once more," Zhongshan instructed, looking at the group.


    "Yes!" They all nodded.

 Chapter 624: The Battle for the Earth Book

    <h4>Chapter 624: The Battle for the Earth Book</h4>


    In the Yang Realm, the Great Zong Empire established itself as the dominant power in the southern part of Shenzhou. Right after its foundation, it had already crushed four major imperial dynasties, a feat unprecedented in history. The appearance of the neen-wed golden dragon of fortune shocked the world. The four celestial dynasties came to congratte it, making the Great Zong the most powerful imperial dynasty in the south.


    Its vast territory wasrger than half of an average celestial dynasty''s domain.


    Initially, the surrounding imperial dynasties were worried that the Great Zong would continue its expansion, but after its establishment, Emperor Zhongshan seemed to lose his ambition and gradually became silent.


    As the Great Zong became quiet, the neighboring imperial dynasties also refrained from provoking it. Thus, the Great Zong entered a period of peace and reorganization.


    With its vast territory to assimte and countless people to appease, numerous sects, including the Great Ming Sect, had to be visited. The Great Zong entered a golden age, holding imperial examinations to select talented individuals.


    Although the Great Zong remained silent, the fortune on the Celestial Pavilion continued to increase, making it the most spectacr sight in the empire.


    While everything developed in an orderly manner in the Yang Realm, Zhongshan''s shadow body in Changjing of the Yin Realm received an unusual intelligence report from the outside world.


    In Zhongshan''s study, Zhongshan pondered with his eyes closed, while Gu Qianyou read the report.


    After reading it, Gu Qianyou frowned.


    "Someone deliberately released this information?" Gu Qianyou frowned.


    "The Qilin possesses the Earth Book. The functions of the Earth Book have been detailed and made known to the world. Now, countless people in the Yin Realm are eyeing the Earth Book," Gu Qianyou continued.


    "Yes, the person who spread this information has malicious intentions. The Qilin left this small world, but the Earth Book was left behind by the immortal Nangong Sheng," Zhongshan said, taking a deep breath.


    "By spreading this news to the world, he aims to incite numerous strong individuals to fight for it. Ordinary strong individuals cannot contend for it; onlyrge factions can. He wants to borrow a knife to kill? Let major factions fight for the Earth Book, and then he will seize it back? Could the mastermind behind this also be a powerful faction?"


    "You''re right. If this person doesn''t have a powerful faction behind him, he must be a lunatic!" Zhongshan nodded.


    "Nangong Sheng? He''s an immortal, but facing the allure of the Earth Book, countless supreme experts will undoubtedly gather. It will be a grand battlefield. Do you want to go?" Gu Qianyou bit her lip and looked at Zhongshan.


    "Of course!" Zhongshan affirmed.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s determination, Gu Qianyou felt a twinge of disappointment but nodded. "Alright, you should go. I''ll watch over the Great Zong here!"


    Seeing the disappointment in Gu Qianyou''s eyes, Zhongshan showed a gentle smile, stroking her hair. "Come with me!"


    With his keen eyes, Zhongshan noticed Gu Qianyou''s disappointment. Gu Qianyou had always been a free-spirited woman, never bound by constraints. Even in the past at the Da Luo Celestial Dynasty, she roamed the world, always seeking adventure. She was a woman who couldn''t stay idle, but for Zhongshan''s sake, she willingly stayed in Changjing. This showed how deep her love for him was.


    "But if we both leave, what about the Great Zong?" Gu Qianyou shook her head.


    "It''s decided. You go prepare, and we depart tomorrow!" Zhongshan said firmly.


    Seeing Zhongshan''s resolve, Gu Qianyou smiled excitedly. "Alright."


    Zhongshan summoned his subordinates.


    Before him stood Lin Xiao, Yan Chongzhi, Mr. Corpse, Xianxian, and Old Wine.


    "Lin Xiao, you and Yan Chongzhi will stay and guard the dynasty!" Zhongshan ordered directly.


    "Yes!" the two immediately responded.


    "Your Majesty, the sudden elevation of our dynasty to an empire has caused great consternation among the surrounding imperial dynasties. My subordinates have apprehended many spies. If Your Majesty is absent for an extended period, how should we handle this situation?" Lin Xiao asked Zhongshan.


    Yan Chongzhi also nodded in agreement.


    "I grant you military authority. If any imperial dynasty dares to attack, fight! Fight! Fight!" Zhongshan said, handing over a tiger talisman, his eyes shining with determination.


    Fight! Fight! Fight!


    The three consecutive derations of battle made Yan Chongzhi''s eyebrows twitch. What did His Majesty mean? Did he want to not only repel any attackers but also take the fight to their territory? To destroy another imperial dynasty? That seemed too audacious!


    Lin Xiao stepped forward without hesitation, fully supporting Zhongshan''s words.


    "Rest assured, Your Majesty. If others do not provoke us, we will not provoke them. But if they dare to offend us, I will annihte their entire dynasty!" Lin Xiao dered firmly.


    "Good!" Zhongshan solemnly handed the tiger talisman to Lin Xiao.


    It wasn''t that Zhongshan acted recklessly, but the situation necessitated such measures. In the Yang Realm, the Great Zong Empire had made a name for itself. However, in the Yin Realm, its fame was still too small. As a newly established empire, it had yet tomand significant respect. Who would bother to remember the names of the leaders of the world''s top 500panies during Zhongshan''s youth on Earth?


    Over the years, Zhongshan''s primary focus had been dispatching people to find Yinn, his master and mistress, and his most cherished love, Kui''er.


    Finding Yinn alone was a daunting task for Wei Taizhong, with little hope of sess. This small thousand-world was vast,parable in size to the sr system Zhongshan knew in his youth. Searching for someone in such an expanse was like finding a needle in a haystack��no, more like finding a speck of dust in the ocean. It was impossible.


    Zhongshan had dispatched many subordinates to search, but it was still a needle in a haystack. The only solution was to make his name known far and wide.


    If the whole world knew him, those he sought mighte to find him instead.


    Thus, in the Yin Realm, Zhongshan did not n to lie low as he did in the Yang Realm.


    To be famous, I want the world to know.


    Although Lin Xiao and Yan Chongzhi didn''t fully understand Zhongshan''s intentions, they had no qualms about following hismands.


    "You know our purpose for this expedition, right?" Zhongshan asked.


    "For the Earth Book!" Xianxian immediately shouted.


    Zhongshan smiled and shook his head.


    "The Earth Book? It''s not that easy to obtain. We have three main objectives on this trip: first, to make a name for ourselves; second, to recruit extraordinary talents; and third, the most important, to ensure safety!" Zhongshan said.


    "Safety?" Xianxian pouted. What kind of objective was that?


    Gu Qianyou, who had a good rtionship with Xianxian, exined, "The Earth Book is in the hands of Nangong Sheng, an immortal. You can imagine how powerful Immortal Nangong Sheng is. Those who dare topete for the Earth Book are not ordinary people. When the timees, there will be countless strong experts. Even the slightest fallout from their battles could turn us to dust. Unless you don''t want to go, safety must be the top priority!"


    "Oh!" Xianxian''s brows furrowed as she digested Gu Qianyou''s words.


    "However, with Old Wine with us, we shouldn''t encounter much danger," Zhongshan said, looking at Old Wine.


    Old Wine,zily touching his red nose, responded, "Don''t worry. As long as you follow my lead, there won''t be any problems."


    "Shapo needs toe along?" Xianxian immediately asked.


    "No need. Shapo must guard the ''Yin-Yang Hall'' without fail. Besides, the five of us are enough," Zhongshan affirmed.


    "Oh!"


    Thus, the team was decided: Zhongshan, Gu Qianyou, Xianxian, Mr. Corpse, and Old Wine��five in total.


    The next day, after arranging matters in court, Zhongshan led the four out of Changjing, rapidly heading towards the source of the message.


    On the way:


    "We''ve been flying for twenty days now. How much further to the ''Blood Sea of Turbulence''? Why did Nangong Sheng have to go so far?" Xianxianined after twenty days of monotonous flight.


    "Pfft, you can''t handle just twenty days?" Gu Qianyou teased.


    "Of course not. But flying continuously without rest for twenty days is ufortable," Xianxian shook her head.


    "We''re almost there, another ten days at most," Zhongshan said.


    "Another ten days?" Xianxian cried out in dismay.


    Seeing Xianxian''s reaction, the others couldn''t help but rx a bit.


    "Old Wine, what is your rtionship with the Tian family?" Zhongshan suddenly asked Old Wine.


    "Nothing, no rtionship at all!" Old Wine hastily replied.


    "No rtionship? Why are you nervous?" Xianxian quickly picked up on the situation.


    "Who''s nervous?" Old Wine retorted.


    "Really no rtionship?" Zhongshan asked with a smile.


    "Of course not!" Old Wine insisted.


    "Good, because I believe the Tian family won''t stay idle regarding the Earth Book. They''ll surely send someone. I hope you won''t suddenly have ''something else to do'' then," Zhongshan said teasingly.


    "What? The Tian family will be involved?" Old Wine''s eyes widened.


    "With such a significant event, how could the Tian family not be involved?" Gu Qianyou added.


    Old Wine''s expression changed rapidly, showing regret and helplessness. Looking at Zhongshan, Old Wine sighed.


    "Sigh, Yan Chongzhi mentioned this, but I didn''t believe him. It seems I can''t hide anything from you!" Old Wine said with a bitter smile.


    Xianxian stared at Old Wine, wondering what other secrets this old drunkard held.


    "Spit it out. I can handle it ordingly," Zhongshan said, fixing his gaze on Old Wine.


    Mr. Corpse also looked at Old Wine warily. Having pledged his loyalty to Zhongshan, Mr. Corpse prioritized Zhongshan''s safety above all else.


    "In truth, my surname is also ''Tian''," Old Wine admitted with a bitter smile.


    "What? Old Wine, you''re part of the Tian family?" Xianxian eximed in surprise.


    Old Wine nodded and smiled bitterly. "I''m a member of the Tian family, but the Tian family would never recognize me."


    "Oh?"


    "My father was a direct descendant of the Tian family. Unfortunately, he fell in love with my mother, an enemy of the Tian family, and I was the result of their union," Old Wine exined.


    "A bastard?" Xianxian repeated.


    Hearing this, Old Wine, who was reminiscing about his sorrowful past, felt a surge of emotions. He nced at Xianxian with a hint of frustration but knew he couldn''t me her for his own loose tongue.


    "My parents were both executed by the Tian family in the name of righteousness, leaving only me. The Tian family considers me a disgrace, and every member of the Tian family is obliged to kill me on sight," Old Wine continued.


    From Old Wine''s words, Zhongshan quickly discerned that there were lies mixed with truths. However, he chose not to expose them and simply nodded.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll try my best to keep you from meeting the Tian family," Zhongshan assured him.


    "Thank you," Old Wine said, deeply moved.

 Chapter 625: The Blood Sea of Rise and Fall

    <h4>Chapter 625: The Blood Sea of Rise and Fall</h4>


    After another nine days of flight, the group, following Zhong Shan''s suggestion, found a scenic ce to rest for a day. This short respite was necessary to alleviate their recent fatigue, especially considering the formidable beings they would soon face in the underworld.


    "I sense an ominous presence in that direction!" Old Wine pointed towards the direction of the Blood Sea of Rise and Fall.


    Everyone fell silent, slightly exasperated. Old Wine was clearly making excuses, trying to avoid a confrontation with the Tian family by creating a diversion.


    Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow, looking at Old Wine. "Don''t worry. We''ve been rushing here since the day we got the news. This is the southeastern part of the underworld, while the Tian family resides in its center, quite a distance away. They''ve probably just received the news, and it''s impossible for them to get here so quickly!"


    "But I truly sense an ominous presence!" Old Wine''s voice grew quieter.


    Zhong Shan stared at him sternly. "If it''s only a minor or moderate threat, don''t bother mentioning it. Only inform me if it''s a major threat. I brought you along for your ability to foresee danger. If you''re truly afraid, you can go back. Don''t disrupt our emotions. If you keep avoiding everything, you''ll never fulfill your potential, and you''ll let down those who taught you this ability."


    Zhong Shan''s words were harsh, but necessary. Old Wine could predict danger, but hecked the backbone. The Blood Sea of Rise and Fall was fraught with peril. Zhong Shan himself wasn''t concerned, but the dangers posed a significant threat to Xianxian and Gu Qianyou. If Old Wine didn''t fully cooperate, it would be challenging to assess the situation urately.


    "Who said I''m avoiding it?" Old Wine''s eyes reddened, feeling the sting of Zhong Shan''s words.


    "Good, that''s the spirit. Remember, as long as you are part of Da Zhen, no one can harm you. Not even the Tian family!" Zhong Shan said seriously.


    This was Zhong Shan''s promise to Old Wine. Although Old Wine still harbored many secrets, Zhong Shan didn''t mind. Many in the Da Zhen imperial court had secrets, like Mr. Corpse, Dark Sovereign, and King Skull. Zhong Shan never pried into their secrets, yet they all remained loyal to Da Zhen.


    Loyalty to Da Zhen was all that mattered to Zhong Shan.


    Of course, Zhong Shan had the means to back up his promise. With the Yin-Yang Hall at his disposal, even the Tian family couldn''t harm Old Wine. If necessary, he could send Old Wine to the yang realm.


    "Alright, rest assured. For my master''s honor, I will face the Tian family head-on if ites to that," Old Wine nodded.


    With that, the group of five finally united in purpose. After a day of rest, they continued their flight southwest.


    After half a day of flying, Zhong Shan and hispanions slowed down. Not only were they approaching the Blood Sea of Rise and Fall, but they also noticed a change in the air.


    A faint metallic scent of blood permeated the air. The atmosphere took on a slight reddish hue, barely noticeable but clear to Zhong Shan''s sharp eyes.


    Blood mist, a unique phenomenon near the Blood Sea of Rise and Fall.


    Under the stench of blood, the air felt incredibly turbid. Even the spiritual energy was tainted with impurities, making it unsuitable for cultivation unless one practiced dark arts. Ordinary cultivators would not only damage their foundation here but might even suffer from qi deviation.


    On the ground, Zhong Shan and hispanions saw some repulsive walking corpses, resembling zombies, but with their skinpletely corroded away, leaving only raw, bloody muscle.


    Xianxian and Gu Qianyou frowned at the sight.


    "These are blood corpses. When humans or animals die here, the blood fiend energy corrodes their skin, turning them into these walking corpses," Mr. Corpse exined calmly. Dealing with corpses was his forte; he had seen all kinds.


    "Are they all undead?" Xianxian asked.


    "Yes, they are undead now,pletely mindless, like zombies, constantly seeking living flesh to feed on. However, if they evolve and gain sentience, they will be one of the strongest types of undead," Mr. Corpse said, frowning.


    "Oh!" Xianxian''s facial muscles twitched, clearly disgusted by the blood corpses.


    "Let''s move!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    Without any dy, the group continued their flight inward.


    "Why is Nangong Sheng hiding here? It''s hard to see, and our divine senses are muddled by the blood mist! And these disgusting blood corpses are everywhere! It''s truly frustrating!" Xianxian frowned.


    "This environment is unique; for some, it offers great benefits for cultivation. Moreover, it''s said that beneath the Blood Sea of Rise and Fall lies a hidden sect," Gu Qianyou exined.


    Xianxian nodded, covering her nose as the stench of blood grew stronger the further they went.


    Gradually, Zhong Shan noticed some silhouettes. On the peaks of tall mountains, figures could be seen moving about. As Zhong Shan''s group flew past, these figures turned to gaze at them with sharp eyes.


    Most of these people were at the Integration stage of cultivation, and they dared not venture further inward, as if something terrifyingy ahead.


    As Zhong Shan''s group flew by, these individuals offered no warnings, only watching coldly.


    There were many people, and even more ghosts, most of whom looked simr, with many shrouded in ck robes.


    These mid-level cultivators couldn''t participate in the internal power struggles. Entering deeper might mean death, but they were unwilling to leave, so they waited on the periphery.


    "Your Majesty, should we ask someone for information?" Mr. Corpse suggested, frowning.


    "A minor omen!" Old Wine added timely.


    "Continue forward. These people haven''t entered the depths of the blood mist. Asking them is pointless," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    Thus, the group continued flying deeper.


    The blood mist grew denser, and the number of blood corpses on the ground increased. Some of these corpses had even gained sentience. These sentient blood corpses, dressed in human clothes,mandedrge numbers of mindless ones. However, they recognized the power of the experts in the sky and did not provoke Zhong Shan and his group.


    As they traveled, Zhong Shan saw more and more powerful beings. Many stood on different mountain peaks, waiting for developments. The higher their cultivation, the closer they stood to the center.


    An hourter, Zhong Shan''s group finally reached the outskirts of the Blood Sea of Rise and Fall.


    However, the Blood Sea of Rise and Fall was different from the intelligence reports. The blood mist above the sea was gone, reced by an endless sea of sword energy, terrifying blood-red sword energy flying everywhere.


    The dense, blood-red sword energy enveloped the entire Blood Sea of Rise and Fall, obscuring any view of the interior. Extending their divine senses resulted in them being shredded by the violent sword energy.


    Suddenly, an overwhelming pressure rushed towards Zhong Shan and his group.


    Zhong Shan''s heart tightened. Such a powerful sword intent!


    As the sword intent approached, almost everyone involuntarily stepped back half a step. This sword intent seemed to pierce their hearts, possessing a mind-numbing effect.


    Around them, swords wielded by various swordsmen trembled slightly, as if an emperor''s sword within demanded their submission.


    The eyes of countless experts around the perimeter changed as they quickly gripped their sword handles.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath. He had felt this kind of sword intent before, in the Longevity Realm''s Absolute Immortal Sword! Yet this one was somewhat different, filled with an aura of ughter.


    "It''s a formation!" Gu Qianyou frowned.


    Indeed, they saw numerous men in red robes standing on the ground at the edge of the sword energy. Each carried a sword and stood in a circle, some even casting spells towards the central formation.


    "This means there''s a major sect conducting business inside, isting the interior from the exterior. It seems we''re a step toote!" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "What sect could it be? Do they really think they can seize Nangong Sheng''s ''Earth Book''? Nangong Sheng is an immortal!" Xianxian frowned.


    "An immortal? So what? In the past, Da Luo Sage, Ancient Shentong, did his strength fear immortals?" Zhong Shan retorted.


    Xianxian stuck out her tongue, a little embarrassed.


    "There''s a medium-level omen inside," Old Wine pondered.


    "Medium-level omen?" Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed slightly.


    For Zhong Shan''s shadow body, even a major threat wouldn''t be able to harm him. His unique physique and his extreme strength made him nearly invincible. However, considering hispanions, Zhong Shan had to be cautious. He didn''t want anything to happen to Gu Qianyou or Xianxian.


    "Let''s find someone to ask," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "I saw some Wolf n members earlier on that mountain peak. Let''s go ask them!" Xianxian suggested.


    "Alright," everyone nodded.


    Soon, Zhong Shan led the group to a nearby mountain peak where six people stood.


    One man stood at the forefront, with five others behind him. These five had wolf ears, though these ears were hairless and marked with corpse spots, a feature of those who had achieved the Royal Extreme Realm and could transform into human form. The leader, however, had ears that looked normal, indicating he had surpassed the Royal Extreme Realm.


    "My grandpa mentioned these are the Corpse Spotted Wolves, unique to the underworld," Xianxian whispered to Zhong Shan.


    As if hearing Xianxian''s words, the leader turned his head, his eyes cold.


    "A white wolf? Hmph!" The leader showed no kindness to Xianxian.


    Xianxian, seeing the leader''s cold attitude, nced at Zhong Shan, feeling a bit embarrassed. Clearly, her attempt to gather information was failing; the Corpse Spotted Wolves weren''t willing tomunicate and even seemed repelled by her.


    "Let''s find someone else to ask," Xianxian sighed.


    But Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Seeing Zhong Shan shake his head, Xianxian was surprised. The wolves didn''t want to talk to her; should she really persist?


    "Do you remember why Emperor Xuansha sent you to the underworld?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "Me? Hmm," Xianxian furrowed her brow, then looked at Zhong Shan with gratitude before showing a determined expression.


    Turning back to the wolves, Xianxian stepped forward with confidence.


    "I am Xianxian of the Wolf n. May I ask for your names?" Xianxian spoke firmly.


    "Huh?" The leader had expected his cold attitude to drive them away, but instead, she returned like a persistent shadow.

 Chapter 626: Former Supreme of the Tiger Clan

    <h4>Chapter 626: Former Supreme of the Tiger n</h4>


    "I am Xianxian of the Wolf n. May I ask your names?" Xianxian fixed her gaze on the leading man once again.


    Hearing Xianxian speak a second time, the leader of the group cast another cold nce at everyone, finally settling his eyes on Xianxian.


    "Get lost!" the leader barked coldly.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with coldness, but he didn''t intervene, allowing Xianxian to handle the situation.


    "Say that again!" Xianxian''s face mirrored the chill in her voice.


    The leader, surprised by her threat, looked at Xianxian with a mixture of amusement and disdain.


    "A mere wolf general dares to speak to me like that? I can end you any time I wish!" the Corpse Spotted Wolf King sneered.


    "Oh, really?" Xianxian smirked coldly.


    The Corpse Spotted Wolf King frowned slightly before surveying Zhong Shan''s group again, then turned back to Xianxian.


    "Just you lot?" heughed mockingly.


    "I alone am enough!" Xianxian shouted defiantly.


    "You?" The Corpse Spotted Wolf King seemed incredulous. Then he and his wolf generals burst intoughter.


    Disbelief filled his eyes as he looked at Xianxian. The Corpse Spotted Wolf King, an Emperor Extreme Realm powerhouse, was a dominant figure in the underworld, leading all Corpse Spotted Wolves with immense power and authority. Today, he was being challenged by a mere wolf general?


    Amid theughter, a hint of malice shed in the Wolf King''s eyes.


    "Eh?" A sudden sound interrupted them as a white-robed figure appeared beside the group. The instant this figure arrived, a powerful aura erupted, dispersing the surrounding blood mist.


    A robust man with white eyebrows appeared before Zhong Shan. The soft exmation hade from him.


    Dressed casually in a short shirt that revealed muscr arms adorned with white wristbands, the man exuded immense strength. As he arrived, his formidable aura pressed down on everyone.


    "Heaven Extreme Realm?" the Corpse Spotted Wolf King eximed, immediately focusing his energy to resist the overpowering aura.


    "Girl, why do you have the aura of my Tiger n?" The robust man suddenly focused on Gu Qianyou.


    While everyone else was crushed by his immense pressure, Gu Qianyou remained unaffected.


    "You can sense the Tiger n''s aura within me?" Gu Qianyou asked, frowning.


    "Indeed, and ites from the same lineage as mine. Who exactly are you?" the man asked sternly.


    "Who am I? Who are you?" Gu Qianyou retorted without backing down.


    "Haha, me? I am Yin Luo Ri. Do you recognize the name?" the man asked.


    Clearly, this unexpected visitor was much more approachable than the Wolf King.


    Hearing his name, Gu Qianyou''s face lit up with joy.


    "Yin Luo Ri? Yin Luo Ri? I greet the former Supreme of the Tiger n!" Gu Qianyou respectfully bowed to Yin Luo Ri.


    "Supreme? Haha, someone still remembers me as the Supreme? Wait, how do you know I was the Supreme?" Yin Luo Ri''s eyebrows shot up in surprise.


    "Supreme, do you remember Ancient Shentong?" Gu Qianyou asked.


    "Him? Didn''t he fail to open the heavens? Even my son in the yang realm perished because of him," Yin Luo Ri frowned.


    "I am Gu Qianyou," she said calmly.


    "Gu Qianyou? So, you''re a descendant of Ancient Shentong? No wonder!" Yin Luo Ri''s expression turned sour.


    "It''s said that you signed the Tiger n Contract with the emperor back then. Is that true?" Gu Qianyou asked, staring intently at Yin Luo Ri.


    "What if it is?" Yin Luo Ri''s face darkened further, clearly unwilling to discuss this topic.


    "The emperor once told me that you agreed to assist him in reincarnating into the underworld. In return, you promised that regardless of the emperor''s fate, the Tiger n Contract would remain open to his descendants for ten generations. If the emperor lived, he would be the primary signatory. If he perished, the contract would extend to one of his descendants within ten generations," Gu Qianyou stated, watching Yin Luo Ri closely.


    Yin Luo Ri''s face grew even more grim.


    "The Tiger n Contract has been missing in the yang realm. I suppose you brought it to the underworld?" Gu Qianyou continued.


    "That''s correct. However, Ancient Shentong is dead! The underworld does not belong to the Gu family! Besides, you are merely a woman!" Yin Luo Ri shook his head.


    "How does Supreme Yin n to honor the ancient promise?" Gu Qianyou pressed.


    "Ancient Shentong is no more, and the Gu family is bound to decline. The Tiger n will not renew the contract with you. However, I might consider fulfilling another request," Yin Luo Ri pondered before speaking.


    "So, Supreme Yin intends to break the contract?" Gu Qianyou''s eyebrows shot up.


    Zhong Shan allowed Gu Qianyou to persist, knowing that this was the crucial moment to fight for their rights. Once the topic was broached, they couldn''t back down; otherwise, the opportunity would be lost forever.


    However, Gu Qianyou''s persistence finally irked Yin Luo Ri.


    "What if I do? I will not renew the contract with you. The bloodline of ten generations is nearly extinct. While some of you remain, I can offer some assistance. Otherwise, hmph!" Yin Luo Ri snorted coldly.


    Suddenly, an eerie pressure enveloped the area. There was no noticeable energy, nor did the nts on the mountain move, but everyone felt an intense pressure on their souls. This pressure evoked a sense of worship within their hearts, even making the Emperor Extreme Realm Wolf King feel an urge to kneel.


    This was the breath of destiny, using destiny to oppress others. Not every Heaven Extreme Realm master could control this power, but those who could were extraordinarily powerful. In the past, the Guanyuan Buddha of the Blissful Pure Land had used this on Zhong Shan, but was thwarted by Tian Ling''er, breaking his meditative silence.


    Feeling the pressure, Zhong Shan stepped back, his pupils shrinking as he prepared to unleash his Samsara Eyes.


    Suddenly, Yin Luo Ri''s face changed,rge beads of sweat rolling down his face. He stared at Xianxian in astonishment.


    At this moment, Xianxian''s entire body was enveloped in a gentle white light.


    The pressure on Xianxian vanished instantly, and she red at Yin Luo Ri with immense anger. A white aura surged from her, pressing back against Yin Luo Ri.


    The pressure on Zhong Shan and the others disappeared abruptly, but Yin Luo Ri appeared to be under immense strain, sweating profusely. The six Corpse Spotted Wolves beside him were crushed to the ground with a loud thud, terror etched on their faces.


    Zhong Shan''s mouth opened in shock, then he quickly realized the reason��Xianxian''s destiny? Xianxian''s destiny was that of an immortal, an immortal''s destiny. Yin Luo Ri had tried to use his destiny to intimidate them, but inadvertently triggered Xianxian''s immortal destiny, turning the tables.


    Yin Luo Ri never anticipated such an oue.


    "How can this be?" Yin Luo Ri looked at Xianxian in horror.


    "Hmph!" Xianxian had no interest in talking to him further. Instead, she turned her attention back to the Corpse Spotted Wolves in front of her.


    After all, Yin Luo Ri was facing off with Gu Qianyou, and Xianxian still had unfinished business with the wolf king and his subordinates.


    "Hmph, now you see how powerful Xianxian is!" Xianxian eximed triumphantly, her newfound control over her destiny''s breath making her almost giddy. She continuously pressured the wolf kings and wolf generals before her.


    The six Corpse Spotted Wolves were in a miserable state. Their souls were gripped by fear, rendering them immobile. Xianxian''s relentless waves of pressure left asting shadow on their hearts.


    Seeing that Xianxian was ignoring him after breaking free from his destiny''s breath, Yin Luo Ri''s eyes shed with a cold glint. Although the six Corpse Spotted Wolves were paralyzed by Xianxian''s pressure, Yin Luo Ri himself could still move and even attack.


    Before Yin Luo Ri could act, a figure suddenly appeared in front of Xianxian and Gu Qianyou.


    Zhong Shan had been watching quietly all along. Noticing the murderous intent in Yin Luo Ri''s eyes, he could no longer remain silent. He stepped in front of the two women.


    Yin Luo Ri was slightly taken aback by Zhong Shan''s sudden appearance. Although he had noticed Zhong Shan from the beginning, he had dismissed him since it was the two women who had been speaking, while the three men stood behind like servants. But now, one of these "servants" dared to resist?


    A low, thunderous roar erupted from Yin Luo Ri, but it abruptly ceased halfway through. A vast, oppressive aura surged forth, akin to the might of heaven and earth, as if the very essence of the Dao itself was bearing down on him. The terrifying pressure extinguished any thought of resistance in Yin Luo Ri''s mind.


    This overwhelming force came from Zhong Shan''s eyes, which had suddenly changed color.


    Reversal of yin and yang, the opening of Samsara!


    Zhong Shan had activated his Samsara Eyes, and the terrifying aura of Samsara instantly enveloped Yin Luo Ri. Fear filled Yin Luo Ri''s heart as his soul seemed to be pulled towards those mesmerizing eyes.


    Yin Luo Ri had made a grave mistake. His mighty roar might have enhanced his aura and presence, but it also lowered his internal defenses. This left him vulnerable, like a boxer exposing his underarm while boasting, only to be struck forcefully in the weakest spot, rendering him defenseless.


    Xianxian''s destiny''s breath was merely oppressive, but Zhong Shan''s gaze was destructive, a threat to the very soul.


    At that moment, Yin Luo Ri deeply regretted his actions. Why had hee here only to meet such disaster? First, his destiny was suppressed by a young girl, and now he felt on the brink of death.


    "Bring out the Tiger n Contract and write in Gu Qianyou''s name!" Zhong Shan demanded sternly.


    Zhong Shan had not opened the full Samsara passage, as its duration was very short. The current state was sufficient to deal with Yin Luo Ri and consumed far less of Zhong Shan''s energy. However, even this lower consumption couldn''t be maintained for long.


    The Corpse Spotted Wolves, already intimidated by Xianxian''s pressure, now felt the residual waves of the Samsara aura and were drenched in cold sweat. What kind of monsters were these people? Each one was more terrifying than thest!


    Yin Luo Ri, feeling the overwhelming pressure, realized that the man before him wasn''t using his full strength. Yet, his own life and death were at this man''s whim. How could this be?

 Chapter 627: The Slaughter Immortal Sword

    <h4>Chapter 627: The ughter Immortal Sword</h4>


    "Who are you?" Yin Luo Ri asked, struggling to contain his frustration.


    Despite being a powerful expert in the Heaven Extreme Realm, Yin Luo Ri found himself at a disadvantage against Zhong Shan. If he had been prepared, Zhong Shan wouldn''t have been able to catch him off guard. Zhong Shan''s Samsara Eyes could only be countered by Yin Luo Ri''s incredible speed, which was currently rendered ineffective by the fear of being trapped in the Samsara passage.


    "Irrelevant. Now, renew the contract," Zhong Shan said, ignoring Yin Luo Ri''s question.


    With a face full of frustration, Yin Luo Ri reluctantly retrieved a massive scroll.


    Themotion caused by Zhong Shan''s use of the Samsara aura and Xianxian''s destiny breath had attracted numerous onlookers. However, the range of these powerful auras was kept small, leaving the onlookers puzzled by the strange behavior of the powerful beings on the mountain��kneeling, sweating profusely, seemingly driven mad.


    Reluctantly, Yin Luo Ri flipped through the enormous scroll to the section that listed "Da Luo, Ancient Shentong." He then instructed Gu Qianyou to add her name in blood next to her ancestor''s, thus sessfully renewing the contract.


    As Zhong Shan''s eyes returned to normal, the oppressive Samsara aura vanished. Yin Luo Ri, drenched in sweat, felt a wave of relief wash over him.


    Yin Luo Ri looked at Zhong Shan with a mixture of fear and curiosity. He handed the Tiger n Contract back to Yin Luo Ri, choosing not to push him further.


    "Who are you? What kind of ocr technique was that?" Yin Luo Ri asked, his eyes filled with uncertainty.


    "I am Zhong Shan, Emperor of the Da Zhen Dynasty. Yin Supreme, are you interested in apanying me back to Da Zhen after this matter with the ''Earth Book'' is settled?" Zhong Shan, now smiling, was a stark contrast to his earlier cold demeanor.


    Yin Luo Ri''s expression shifted rapidly, still reeling from the fear he had just experienced. After a moment, he asked, "And her?"


    "She is my empress," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    Yin Luo Ri''s wariness eased slightly, though he still cast cautious nces at Zhong Shan. After a moment''s thought, he replied, "Alright."


    Yin Luo Ri knew Zhong Shan wouldn''t harm him; if he intended to, he would have done so already. Moreover, Yin Luo Ri was keen to understand more about Zhong Shan, having felt the genuine terror that Zhong Shan''s power had invoked.


    "Wee, Yin Supreme!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Yin Luo Ri managed a strained smile, his relief palpable.


    "Swear loyalty to me with a blood oath!" Xianxianmanded the Corpse Spotted Wolves before her.


    What could they say? They felt utterly unlucky to have encountered such powerful adversaries. Resistance seemed futile, especially seeing a Heaven Extreme Realm Tiger n expert acquiesce. Reluctantly, the Corpse Spotted Wolf King made a blood oath to Xianxian, much like the previous Blood Fiend Lord had.


    Once Xianxian was satisfied, the pressure on the Corpse Spotted Wolves lifted, allowing them to stand. The Corpse Spotted Wolf King felt aggrieved, caught in an unwarranted cmity. The Blood Sea of Rise and Fall truly was fraught with danger, even for those merely standing by.


    The Corpse Spotted Wolf King nced at Yin Luo Ri, and a mutual feeling of shared misfortune passed between them.


    Chapter 627: The ughter Immortal Sword


    One cmity had descended from the sky, and another was self-inflicted. Yin Luo Ri hade over without any reason, only to get himself involved in this mess.


    The two powerful figures could only swallow their bitterness. Despite their strength, they had to concede to the stronger force before them.


    "By the way, what''s your name?" Xianxian asked.


    "Jing Tianci," the Corpse Spotted Wolf King replied.


    "Alright, I wanted to ask you earlier, what''s going on here?" Xianxian asked.


    Jing Tianci was speechless and deeply frustrated. If he had answered earlier, none of this would have happened. Instead, things had escted to this point.


    "This is the ''Immortal Realm'' sealing off the area. The Immortal Realm''s realm master is battling Nangong Sheng inside," Jing Tianci replied.


    "The Immortal Realm?" Xianxian looked at Zhong Shan in surprise.


    The Immortal Realm was one of the two great holynds in the underworld, renowned for its immense power. No wonder they dared to challenge Nangong Sheng.


    "The Immortal Realm? It''s just the Longevity Realm," Yin Luo Ri interjected.


    "The Longevity Realm?" Zhong Shan looked at Yin Luo Ri in surprise.


    Jing Tianci was also puzzled and looked at Yin Luo Ri.


    "The Immortal Realm is just a facade. If I hadn''t seen that thing earlier, I might have been fooled too. I didn''t expect the Longevity Realm to have such deep foundations, extending its reach to the underworld," Yin Luo Ri said with a frown.


    "What thing?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    "Didn''t you sense a powerful sword intent earlier?" Yin Luo Ri asked.


    "Yes, that sword intent was something I''ve only felt from the Absolute Immortal Sword," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "What? You''ve seen the Absolute Immortal Sword? That''s in the yang realm!" Yin Luo Ri eximed.


    "Haha, that''s a story for another time. Once you''re in the Da Zhen Dynasty, I''ll exin it to you," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Yin Luo Ri gave Zhong Shan a curious look but eventually nodded.


    "The sword held by the Immortal Realm''s realm master is no weaker than the Absolute Immortal Sword. It is the ughter Immortal Sword," Yin Luo Ri said.


    "The ughter Immortal Sword?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "ughter, Trap, Absolute, and Exterminate��the four Immortal Swords were originally from the Longevity Realm, or should I say, the Immortal Realm. It turns out the Immortal Realm is indeed the Longevity Realm," Yin Luo Ri said with a deep sigh.


    "That''s not right!" Zhong Shan suddenly frowned.


    "What do you mean?" Yin Luo Ri asked, puzzled.


    "Aren''t the four Immortal Swords among the eighteen ancient treasures? Isn''t it possible to forge them with the right methods? If the Longevity Realm has them, the Immortal Realm could also have them," Zhong Shan spected.


    "No, the four Immortal Swords are different. Throughout history, there has only been one set of the four Immortal Swords," Yin Luo Ri exined.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "Because forging the four Immortal Swords requires sword souls. Without sword souls, it''s impossible to create such powerful swords. There''s only one set of sword souls, so there can''t be a second set of the four Immortal Swords. Even in the Great Thousand World, these would be unparalleled treasures, likely surpassing even ordinary immortal weapons," Yin Luo Ri said with certainty.


    "Has the Crow Daoist ever appeared in the underworld?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No," Jing Tianci shook his head.


    "The Crow Daoist presides over the yang realm. Naturally, someone else presides over the underworld," Yin Luo Ri confirmed.


    "What about the realm master of the Immortal Realm, Ye Qingcheng? How strong is he?" Zhong Shan asked Yin Luo Ri.


    Everyone''s gaze turned back to the massive sword formation before them. Countless sword energies erupted like a sky-piercing hedgehog, dazzling with millions of crimson lights.


    "Boom, boom, boom��"


    The internal explosions shook the endless sword energies, causing them to tremble violently.


    "Not good, the sword formation is about to break. Be careful!" Old Wine suddenly shouted.


    "Boom, boom, boom��"


    As Old Wine''s words fell, the endless sword energies, like released arrows, scattered wildly in all directions.


    Everyone swiftly moved to dodge the vast majority of the sword energies, managing to block only a small portion of them.


    "Boom��"


    The mountain beneath them exploded into fragments.


    High-level cultivators dodged the rain of swords, but the lower-level ones died instantly, cut in half. At least half of the blood corpses on the ground were obliterated by the onught of sword energies.


    The initial outer ring of red-d Immortal Realm members suffered numerous injuries from the powerful impact.


    The formidable isting sword formation had been shattered.


    Everyone gazed toward the center.


    What they saw made them swallow hard.


    Most striking were the hundreds of ck marks in mid-air, shrinking steadily. These weren''t sword marks but spatial scars, shed open by the ughter Immortal Sword.


    The terrifying ughter Immortal Sword could easily tear through space.


    As the ck hole-like spatial scars slowly faded, the internal scene was revealed.


    It was a sea of blood, a vast expanse asrge as half the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, nearly half the size of Earth. The entire area was filled with crimson blood, an eerie sight.


    The blood sea was square-shaped, with numerous ck inds within it. These inds would sink and float intermittently, hence the name "Blood Sea of Rise and Fall."


    Within the blood sea, countless blood corpsesy motionless, all seemingly cut in half.


    Hovering in the air was a white-d man with long blue hair flowing freely in the wind. He wielded a blood-red long sword identical in style to the Absolute Immortal Sword but imbued with an aura of ughter. A thousand-foot-long sword energy extended from the de, leaving spatial scars in its wake.


    This man was Ye Qingcheng, the realm master of the Immortal Realm. His brows were tightly knit, his eyes coldly fixated on a single ind below.


    At the center of the blood sea stood an ind that did not float or sink. Atop it stood a pale-skinned man in a ck robe with a striking red mark between his eyebrows��Nangong Sheng, the immortal.


    Nangong Sheng''s left hand was behind his back, and his right hand extended forward, holding a small white stone between his middle and index fingers. He faced Ye Qingcheng in the sky with this stone. Despite its unassuming appearance, Zhong Shan could detect a hint of fear in Ye Qingcheng''s eyes.


    Zhong Shan looked at the small stone again. It was round and t, held by Nangong Sheng like a Go piece.


    Nangong Sheng was using a Go piece to confront Ye Qingcheng''s ughter Immortal Sword?

 Chapter 628: The Heavenly Immortal Formation

    <h4>Chapter 628: The Heavenly Immortal Formation</h4>


    Nangong Sheng held a single white Go piece, facing off against Ye Qingcheng''s ughter Immortal Sword. An immortal, with his innate demeanor and grace, naturally stood above countless mortals. Even in the midst of a formidable army and surrounded on all sides, he remained calm and elegant, a testament to his unparalleled strength.


    Ye Qingcheng, gripping the ughter Immortal Sword, stared at Nangong Sheng with a hint of trepidation.


    "One piece, one immortal formation. With your mastery in formations, you are undoubtedly the top formation master not just in the yang realm but here in the underworld as well. You''ve ced thirty-four pieces, each one countered by me. Do you still have moves left?" Ye Qingcheng asked gravely.


    "The ughter Immortal Sword indeed lives up to its name! Ye Qingcheng, your swordsmanship is superb, but your sword path doesn''t match that of my Nether Heaven. The current Heavenly Master of Nether Heaven, Sword Ao, is the true master of swordsmanship," Nangong Sheng said with a smile.


    "Oh? If the opportunity arises, I would like to challenge him personally. But now, can you still ce another piece?" Ye Qingcheng asked sternly.


    "If you are so eager, then fine. This is the thirty-fifth piece, named ''Self,''" Nangong Sheng said solemnly.


    As soon as Nangong Sheng spoke, Ye Qingcheng became even more serious, his eyes fixed intently on the white Go piece in Nangong Sheng''s hand.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan and his group also watched intently, observing Nangong Sheng''s calm demeanor.


    "This is the ''Heavenly Immortal Formation,''" Gu Qianyou suddenly said.


    "Oh? Heavenly Immortal Formation?" The group looked at Gu Qianyou in confusion.


    "I once heard the Emperor speak of this. It''s a powerful offensive and defensive formation created by Nangong Sheng himself. It resembles a Go board, where cing one piece changes the entire formation. Each additional piece exponentially increases the formation''s power. When the Emperor faced Nangong Sheng, he had only developed it to the thirty-second piece. Now it has reached the thirty-fifth piece!" Gu Qianyou exined quickly.


    "Heavenly Immortal Formation? The thirty-fifth piece, Self?" Zhong Shan repeated Nangong Sheng''s words.


    Nangong Sheng smiled faintly and gently ced the white Go piece. Instantly, a Go board appeared before him, and as the piecended with a crisp "pa," the board disappeared.


    Ye Qingcheng grew even more vignt, tightly gripping the ughter Immortal Sword, ready for anything.


    As the Go board vanished, the inds in the Blood Sea of Rise and Fall began to sink and float in a bizarre manner, their numbers more than doubling. Zhong Shan was shocked to realize that the square-shaped Blood Sea resembled a colossal Go board, with the ck inds acting as pieces, each positioned at the intersections of the grid. The countless inds, connected by invisible threads, formed an enormous formation.


    Red light surged into the sky from the sea, piercing the heavens. A powerful aura pressed down on everyone, making many instinctively step back in fear.


    In the red light above the Blood Sea, the space seemed to twist slightly. The massive formation caused the space to shake.


    Ye Qingcheng was not intimidated by the trembling space. What concerned him was a mass of blood mist floating in mid-air.


    This blood mist, seemingly formed by the great formation, grew denser and denser. It drew in spatial forces, slowly condensing into a human-sized shape, bing more solid and clear.


    "Ye Qingcheng?" Xianxian eximed in shock.


    The blood mist took on a human form, identical to Ye Qingcheng. It was as if another Ye Qingcheng had appeared, but this figure was created by the formation and filled with a terrifying aura.


    Ye Qingcheng''s grip tightened on the ughter Immortal Sword, his eyes never leaving the blood mist figure.


    Nangong Sheng, with his calm demeanor, watched Ye Qingcheng intently, his expression confident and unyielding. The white Go piece, now ced, had activated the full power of the Heavenly Immortal Formation, challenging even the mighty Ye Qingcheng.


    Not only Xianxian but everyone widened their eyes in astonishment as the blood mist solidified, forming a body identical to Ye Qingcheng.


    An exact replica of Ye Qingcheng slowly took shape, and even the ughter Immortal Sword manifested an identical copy. High in the sky, Ye Qingcheng stared in shock at the figure before him, whose aura was identical to his own. The sword in the replica''s hand exuded the same terrifying aura as his own ughter Immortal Sword.


    The thirty-fifth piece, Self?


    Was this a battle against oneself? Ye Qingcheng knew that this wasn''t actually him but a spatial entity created by the Heavenly Immortal Formation based on his own characteristics. Still, it seemed to match him in every way.


    The spatial entity stared intently at Ye Qingcheng. With just onemand from Nangong Sheng, it would attack him with the ughter Immortal Sword.


    A perfect copy of himself? Ye Qingcheng couldn''t believe it, couldn''t believe that this spatial entity could match his power.


    He lightly moved the ughter Immortal Sword, sending a powerful wave of sword energy forward. As the sword moved, it created a massive spatial tear, a ck rift exuding an intimidating aura.


    The spatial entity responded by wielding its own ughter Immortal Sword, mirroring Ye Qingcheng''s movement. The resulting sword energy was equally terrifying, if not more so, and it shed through the fragmented space toward Ye Qingcheng.


    Ye Qingcheng had been testing the waters, but the spatial entity attacked with full force.


    "ng��"


    The two ughter Immortal Swords shed powerfully. The point of collision created a massive ck hole, about a hundred feet wide, demonstrating the terrifying strength of the spatial entity.


    "Pff��"


    Ye Qingcheng spat out a mouthful of blood, flying back a hundred feet, while the spatial entity remained steadfast, not budging an inch.


    "How is this possible?" Everyone was stunned.


    This spatial entity was so strong? That was Ye Qingcheng, and he had the ughter Immortal Sword, yet he was defeated?


    "If you don''t use your full strength, it certainly won''t show any mercy. However strong you are, that''s how strong it will be!" Nangong Sheng said with a faint smile.


    The thirty-fifth piece, Self?


    Everyone around gasped. This formation was too incredible!


    "How can it be so strong? It''s just a simted figure," Xianxian said in surprise.


    "The Emperor once mentioned that the Heavenly Immortal Formation is a masterpiece of formation design, incorporating spatial forces, illusions, and even psychological elements. The spatial entity truly matches Ye Qingcheng in power, at least in his own eyes. Unless he defeats himself, he won''t be able to break the formation!" Gu Qianyou exined in shock.


    "So, the stronger one believes themselves to be, the stronger the spatial entity?" Yin Luo Ri asked, frowning.


    "Then does that mean that an arrogant person is doomed, while a self-deprecating person can easily break the formation?" Zhong Shan remarked with an odd smile.


    While the internal experts fought, the spectators outside pondered solutions. Zhong Shan''s group also spected on ways to break the formation.


    "It seems that way!" The others responded to Zhong Shan''sment with a mixture of curiosity and amusement.


    "But do you think Ye Qingcheng is a self-deprecating person?" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Clearly, that was not possible. As the master of a great holynd, Ye Qingcheng couldn''t be self-deprecating.


    Defeated by his own sword, Ye Qingcheng immediately became more vignt, watching the spatial entity closely.


    With a twist of his wrist, he shed the ughter Immortal Sword through the air, aiming once more at the spatial entity.


    Ye Qingcheng unleashed his full strength with the ughter Immortal Sword, causing the surrounding space to tremble. The internal scene twisted and distorted, leaving only faint, blurry shadows and deep ck holes visible.


    "Boom, boom, boom...!"


    The sh between two absolute powerhouses echoed, their attacks sending countless sword marks through the twisted space. Shards of spatial rifts spread like shattered ss in all directions, showcasing the terrifying might of Ye Qingcheng.


    "Boom!"


    In the midst of their battle, a massive ck hole, a thousand feet in diameter, hovered in the sky. Unlike ordinary ck holes, this one did not shrink, its periphery emanating ripples of spatial distortion that spread far and wide. The ck hole''s persistent size was due to the ongoing fiercebat within, where the continuous exchanges of terrifying blows maintained its form.


    This was a true battle of titans. Numerous spectators retreated repeatedly to a safer distance, including Zhong Shan and his group, as the intensity of the fight became overwhelming.


    "ng!"


    Another sh of swords echoed as Ye Qingcheng and his spatial doppelg?nger separated, standing on opposite sides of the ck hole, which slowly began to shrink. Both stood ready with their swords, their clothes tattered with numerous sword marks, indicating they had suffered identical injuries.


    "Amazing!" Xianxian eximed in awe.


    "Unfortunately, defeating that spatial doppelg?nger won''t be easy for Ye Qingcheng," Old Wine said with a frown.


    "No!" Zhong Shan suddenly shook his head.


    "What do you mean?"


    "Don''t you find Ye Qingcheng terrifying?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "Oh?" The group looked at Zhong Shan, except for Gu Qianyou, who seemed to understand, her expression turning serious as she stared at Ye Qingcheng.


    "If Ye Qingcheng were arrogant, his opponent would grow stronger with his mindset. If he were self-deprecating, the opponent would weaken. But now, they are evenly matched. What does that tell you?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "He is neither arrogant nor self-deprecating," Old Wine thought aloud.


    "Exactly. He is neither arrogant nor self-deprecating. While one can deceive others with their exterior, they cannot lie to themselves. Even a slightly confident person would naturally think highly of their aplishments. Yet, Ye Qingcheng exhibits no arrogance, not even a trace. He controls his emotions with such precision. That''s what makes him terrifying," Zhong Shan exined.


    After Zhong Shan''s exnation, the group fell silent, reflecting on his words.


    In the distance, a cold smile appeared on Ye Qingcheng''s lips. His eyes gleamed as he lifted the ughter Immortal Sword, charging at his spatial doppelg?nger once again. Their fierce shes continued, each sword strike fracturing the space around them. The battle''s sheer intensity left the spectators dazzled and overwhelmed by the terrifying aftershocks.


    However, amidst this chaos, one area remained oddly calm��the Sea of Blood beneath Nangong Sheng. Despite the fierce battle, it only stirred with gentle waves. At this moment, Nangong Sheng''s right hand held another ck Go piece, which had appeared there mysteriously.


    The audience could only watch in awe and anxiety as the battle between Ye Qingcheng and his spatial doppelg?nger raged on, their identical strengths making the oue uncertain. The cunning smile on Nangong Sheng''s face, along with the new ck Go piece in his hand, suggested that the battle''s true climax was yet toe.

 Chapter 629: The Heavenly Tribulation

    <h4>Chapter 629: The Heavenly Tribtion</h4>


    The battles at the Heavenly Extreme Realm could only be described as swift and powerful. Ordinary people couldn''t capture their movements, except for the inky sword traces left by the ughtering Immortal Sword and the momentary glimpses of their forms when they collided.


    Ye Qingcheng''sbat couldn''t be described as dazzling; it could only be described as tearing the heavens apart. His fierce fighting shattered the space above the surging sea of blood. The surrounding space trembled incessantly. Such a level ofbat made almost everyone feel ashamed and retreat again and again.


    The terrifying battle raged on for three days and three nights. Fighting against oneself wasn''t an easy feat, but starting three days ago, the spatial body seemed to be restricted everywhere.


    Although the opponent was identical to himself, it was mysteriously suppressed by Ye Qingcheng.


    Had Ye Qingcheng discovered his ws and attacked them relentlessly? People didn''t understand, but they could see that the spatial body was being forced back step by step, umting more and more wounds.


    "Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz..."


    Ye Qingcheng''s sword pierced through the spatial body''s torso, ending the battle.


    Ye Qingcheng had won.


    After the ughtering Immortal Sword pierced through the opponent''s body, Ye Qingcheng closed his eyes briefly. Three breathster, he slowly opened them. The brilliance in his eyes was gone, reced by a simple and unpretentious look.


    Ye Qingcheng had broken through in his state of mind! He had be even more formidable!


    The corpse on the ughtering Immortal Sword slowly dissipated, as if it had never existed.


    Ye Qingcheng looked very calm, but the shattered space around him testified to the intensity of the recent battle.


    The Lord of the Evesting Realm was indeed powerful to this extent.


    Gradually, the space around them began to stabilize, everything returning to the previous standoff.


    But now, the white chess piece at Nangong Sheng''s fingertip had been reced by a ck one.


    "Breaking through during battle? Lord Ye, what remarkable talent!" Nangong Sheng said.


    "Thank you for your assistance. However, the Evesting Realm is determined to obtain the Earth Book this time. Lord Nangong, I hope you won''t take offense! The thirty-fifth move, I don''t think Lord Nangong will end it here, will you?" Ye Qingcheng stared at Nangong Sheng.


    Ye Qingcheng had just broken through in his state of mind, his strength had risen again. At this moment, he needed a strong opponent, the stronger, the better. Naturally, Nangong Sheng was the best choice.


    "Of course not. There''s still the thirty-sixth move. Lord Ye, be prepared!" Nangong Sheng said with a smile.


    The thirty-sixth move? When Zhong Shan and the others heard this, they couldn''t help but frown. Was there an even stronger formation than the previous one?


    Ye Qingcheng was extremely solemn. Others only saw it, but Ye Qingcheng experienced it firsthand. The Celestial Chess Formation was incredibly powerful. With each move, the formation''s attack and kill momentum changed unpredictably, bing exponentially stronger. He had relied on the ughtering Immortal Sword to face ordinary immortals without defeat, even surpassing them.


    However, the Celestial Chess Formation was exceptionally powerful. He had fought through to the thirty-fifth move, narrowly making it through. The thirty-fifth move, his own self? It had truly scared him earlier. That was the ughtering Immortal Sword, and it could even be simted?


    And now, the thirty-sixth move? Ye Qingcheng didn''t dare to be careless, waiting for Nangong Sheng to make his move.


    Nangong Sheng looked at Ye Qingcheng, smiling slightly. The ck chess piece in his hand gently fell into the void.


    The void once again disyed the previous illusion, a strange chessboard, with the ck piece falling.


    "Snap!"


    With the sound of the chess piece falling, the entire surging sea of blood began to churn again. Countless inds sank once more, countless inds resurfaced, and the surroundingyout changed abruptly. The previous pir of red light disappeared.


    In its ce was an oppressive atmosphere, extremely suffocating, making it hard to breathe. Even Zhong Shan and the others, who were far away, felt the heavy oppression, retreating continuously.


    The presence of an immortal? Could this be the might of an immortal?


    Ye Qingcheng remained exceedingly vignt, scanning the surroundings with wide eyes.


    Suddenly, a strong wind swept through the area, and a chill made Ye Qingcheng''s hair stand on end. A vast pressure descended from the sky!


    Ye Qingcheng abruptly looked up towards the heavens. Upon seeing whaty above, his mouth gaped open in astonishment.


    The thirty-sixth move? No way!


    In the sky, out of nowhere, an endless mass of ck clouds began to gather. The clouds thickened and expanded, filled with countless shes of lightning. An apocalyptic pressure descended from the heavens.


    "What... what is this?" Ye Qingcheng felt an immense threat, his heart filled with horror as he cried out.


    Nangong Sheng nced confidently at Ye Qingcheng and smiled faintly. "The Celestial Chess Formation, the thirty-sixth move: the Heavenly Tribtion."


    The thirty-sixth move, the Heavenly Tribtion?


    Nangong Sheng''s voice wasn''t loud, but it carried across the entire scene, even reaching the surrounding area. This was a warning from Nangong Sheng, deliberately spreading the message to deter outsiders from interfering.


    The Heavenly Tribtion?


    What did it mean? Nangong Sheng used a formation to summon a Heavenly Tribtion, intending to strike down Ye Qingcheng?


    "A Heavenly Tribtion? Is this real?" Xianxian eximed in shock.


    "It''s real!" Yin Luorie responded in astonishment.


    "It''s fake!" Gu Qianyou shook his head, analyzing the situation.


    Not only Zhong Shan''s group, but numerous powerful individuals outside were also discussing this topic. Was it real or fake?


    Ye Qingcheng was also looking at the sky with uncertainty.


    Real? Fake? The thirty-sixth move, the Heavenly Tribtion?


    Ye Qingcheng had already considered this formation to be immensely powerful, but each of Nangong Sheng''s moves shattered his expectations, elevating the formation''s power to unimaginable heights. And now, he even brought out the Heavenly Tribtion?


    Ye Qingcheng''s eyes were filled with surprise, his expression constantly changing as if contemting something.


    His heart was in turmoil, but the Heavenly Tribtion wouldn''t wait for him.


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous explosion echoed as a hundred-foot-wide purple lightning bolt shot out from the ck clouds. Like a purple dragon, it descended from the sky, hurtling towards Ye Qingcheng. The purple lightning dragon caused massive spatial tremors and left dark streaks in its wake.


    "Boom!"


    The ughtering Immortal Sword shot up to meet the purple lightning dragon, shing fiercely. The powerful collision forced Ye Qingcheng to sink a hundred feet, while the purple lightning dragon perished under the might of the ughtering Immortal Sword.


    A massive ck hole was left in the sky, continuously drawing in and absorbing the surrounding space to fill itself.


    Everyone outside felt the immense power of this ''Heavenly Tribtion,'' their mouths agape, hearts filled with terror.


    "Ye Qingcheng has lost," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "Huh?" Everyone was slightly puzzled.


    "Lord Nangong, my apologies. The Evesting Realm will withdraw," Ye Qingcheng said, stepping back and addressing Nangong Sheng.


    Huh? Almost everyone was stunned. Nangong Sheng hadn''t shown any signs of defeat, so why was Ye Qingcheng backing down?


    Nangong Sheng looked at Ye Qingcheng, smiled faintly, and finally nodded. With a flick of his sleeve, the thunderclouds in the sky suddenly dispersed. At this moment, everyone understood that it was merely a formation, not a real Heavenly Tribtion. Otherwise, even immortals wouldn''t be able to intervene in a real Heavenly Tribtion.


    "Why did Ye Qingcheng admit defeat?" Xianxian frowned.


    "Ye Qingcheng had no choice but to admit defeat," Gu Qianyou exined.


    "Oh?"


    "This Heavenly Tribtion needs to be considered from two perspectives. If it were a real Heavenly Tribtion, Ye Qingcheng definitely wouldn''t want to face it now. Although he has the ability to pass through it, once he does, he will be an immortal. That would mean he''d be rejected by the Minor World and wouldn''t be able to stay here for long. Ye Qingcheng surely doesn''t want to act impulsively and force himself out of the Minor World when he still has unfinished business here. So, in the face of a real Heavenly Tribtion, Ye Qingcheng would definitely admit defeat," Gu Qianyou exined.


    "But isn''t this a fake Heavenly Tribtion?" Xianxian asked, puzzled.


    "Fake? It could be fake. If it is, then the simtion by Nangong Sheng is extremely formidable. Ye Qingcheng might be able to pass through it, but to do so, he would have to exert himself fully, even to the point of releasing his natal essence to contend with the ''Heavenly Tribtion.'' The unrestrained energy might reach the heavens and potentially attract a real Heavenly Tribtion. At that point, he would have no choice but to face it. In the Minor World, Heavenly Extreme Realm experts typically avoid facing a tribtion unless their lifespan is near its end," Gu Qianyou borated.


    "Hmm!" The crowd nodded, understanding Gu Qianyou''s reasoning.


    In the distance, Ye Qingcheng looked at Nangong Sheng with a very strange expression. After a moment, he said, "Lord Nangong, today, I concede. Another day, I shall challenge you again!"


    "I look forward to it!" Nangong Sheng smiled.


    The Celestial Chess Formation, thirty-sixth move, hadpletely defeated the Evesting Realm.


    Countless onlookers were stunned. Was Nangong Sheng truly so powerful? A realm lord was defeated just like that?


    "People of the Evesting Realm, depart!" Ye Qingcheng didn''t hesitate. With amand, tens of thousands of Evesting Realm followers rose into the sky, gathering around Ye Qingcheng and flying majestically northward. No one dared to obstruct their path.


    The mighty Evesting Realm, one of the two great sacrednds of the Underworld, had ended in defeat. What chance did smaller factions have?


    Nangong Sheng''s power was beyond question. From start to finish, he hadn''t lifted a finger. He merely deployed the Celestial Chess Formation. Such a vast formation could even summon a Heavenly Tribtion? Who would dare to act rashly now?


    This was the thirty-sixth move. Were there more moves, like the thirty-seventh, the thirty-eighth?


    Everyone looked at Nangong Sheng on the central sea ind with awe. Nangong Sheng smiled faintly, indifferent to the surrounding experts. After the recent battle, they likely wouldn''t dare to cause trouble.


    With a wave of his hand, endless blood mist rose from the sea of blood, growing thicker by the second. In an instant, it enveloped the vast sea, obscuring everything from view, even blocking out divine sense.


    Nangong Sheng had used the formation to conceal everything.


    "Why doesn''t Nangong Sheng leave this ce?" Xianxian asked curiously, looking at Zhong Shan.

 Chapter 630: Meeting Xiao Wang Again

    <h4>Chapter 630: Meeting Xiao Wang Again</h4>


    "Why doesn''t Nangong Sheng leave this ce?" Xianxian asked curiously, looking at Zhong Shan.


    Not only Xianxian, but countless other powerful figures present had the same thought. Why did Nangong Sheng stay here? Was he waiting for one challenger after another, or for one faction after another to confront him? Even an immortal would find constant interruptions bothersome, especially since those who dared to challenge him were exceptionally powerful, often wielding formidable treasures. After all, even Heavenly Extreme Realm experts were insignificant before an immortal.


    Like before, Ye Qingcheng, a powerful figure within the Heavenly Extreme Realm, had needed the assistance of the mighty ughtering Immortal Sword. Why didn''t Nangong Sheng leave? Did he have a n? Who had leaked the news that Nangong Sheng had obtained the Earth Book? Was it Nangong Sheng himself? If it was, his staying made sense. However, judging by his attitude towards the Evesting Realm earlier, it was clear that Nangong Sheng hadn''t leaked the news. There must be another schemer behind this.


    "I might know why Nangong Sheng isn''t leaving," Mr. Corpse suddenly said.


    "Oh?" Everyone looked at Mr. Corpse.


    "The Earth Book isn''t easy to study. It''s said that some people obtained an Earth Book but found itpletely nk, with not a single word in it. Opening the Earth Book requires a special method, and each Earth Book is different. Nangong Sheng might be staying here to unlock the Earth Book," Mr. Corpse spected.


    "Each Earth Book? What do you mean by each Earth Book?" Yin Luorie asked in surprise.


    Yin Luorie stared at Mr. Corpse, wondering if there were many Earth Books. But Mr. Corpse didn''t answer.


    "Look, what''s that?" Xianxian suddenly pointed to the sky.


    Everyone followed Xianxian''s gaze. The sky, cleared of clouds by the recent battle, was now a vast expanse of clear night, dotted with countless stars. Of course, they all knew that these so-called stars were reflections from the Grand World.


    But as they looked at the starry sky, they noticed something strange. Some stars shone exceptionally brightly, while others were much dimmer. Moreover, these stars flickered bizarrely, sometimes brightening and sometimes dimming, in a very peculiar manner. For decades, Zhong Shan hadn''t noticed this strange change in the stars. It could only mean that the visual effect of looking at the stars from this ce was different from elsewhere.


    This was intentional!


    Thinking of this, everyone was startled. Clearly, this had to be Nangong Sheng''s doing. He was drawing on the power of the stars.


    "I remember now, the countless inds in the Sea of Blood, don''t they resemble the stars in the sky? When an ind sinks, a star dims. When an ind rises, a star brightens," Gu Qianyou suddenly eximed.


    "Nangong Sheng is using the unique terrain of the Sea of Blood to draw on the power of the stars in the Grand World to unlock the Earth Book?" Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    After Zhong Shan spoke, there was a deathly silence among the group.


    This... this was too outrageous.


    After a moment of silence, it was Gu Qianyou who spoke first, "Nangong Sheng''s mastery of formations is unparalleled in the world today. No one canpare. Even in recorded history, no one has reached his level of expertise in formations. His research in formations can be considered abnormal."


    Everyone agreed with Gu Qianyou''s sentiment. Creating a ''self'' with a formation, summoning a ''Heavenly Tribtion''��these feats were already astonishing. But to draw on the power of the stars in the Grand World with just a formation, orchestrated by one person��this level of mastery couldn''t simply be described as powerful. It was monstrous.


    "What should we do?" Xianxian asked, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "With two great celestial dynasties and two great sacrednds, the powerful forces of the Underworld are vast. We''ve only seen the Evesting Realm so far; surely more powerful factions will arrive," Yin Luorie said.


    "Yes, let''s wait a bit longer. There might be more changes," Zhong Shan replied.


    Everyone nodded in agreement with Zhong Shan. Such a grand asion couldn''t be missed. Even if they gained nothing, what they witnessed here would be more than enough. Additionally, the battles between these powerful beings would undoubtedly provide countless insights.


    Zhong Shan and his group stood on the periphery, observing the numerous powerful individuals present. He didn''t hastily try to ally with anyone, as the information they had might not be entirely urate.


    During this period, Xianxian discovered over a dozen different wolf generals. Under the influence of the Wolf King Jing Tianci and Xianxian''s natal essence, the wolf generals submitted one after another, swearing blood oaths to serve Xianxian.


    Thus, they recognized Xianxian as the Supreme of the Wolf Tribe and the Supreme of the Underworld.


    Of course, for Xianxian to be the Supreme of the Wolf Tribe, not every wolf had to swear allegiance; only the progenitor-level wolves of each lineage needed to. For instance, with the blood oath of the Corpse-Spot Wolf King Jing Tianci, his entire lineage would naturally obey Xianxian''smands due to Jing Tianci''s pledge.


    Xianxian''s power expanded rapidly.


    Twenty days passed as they waited. Suddenly, the Wine Elder''s brow furrowed, and his right eyelid twitched violently.


    "Something''s wrong!" the Wine Elder eximed in surprise.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked, his expression turning serious.


    "I sense a bad omen, a very bad omen!" the Wine Elder quickly said.


    "A very bad omen?" Zhong Shan''s heart tightened.


    "I''ve never felt something this strong before. This omen is worse than thest time with the Brain-Eating Beast!" the Wine Elder added.


    "Worse than the Brain-Eating Beast?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    This was not good news. The Brain-Eating Beast incident had been a near-death experience, and now there was something even more terrifying? The uing danger was unimaginable.


    "Your Majesty, what should we do?" the Wine Elder asked, his eyes filled with fear.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath, pondering for a moment. He nced at Gu Qianyou and Xianxian, both of whom naturally awaited his decision.


    Looking at the two women, determination filled Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    "All of you, return to the celestial dynasty immediately!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Return to the celestial dynasty? What about you?" Gu Qianyou asked, concerned.


    "Me? I''ll stay," Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "But..." Gu Qianyou''s face was full of worry.


    "Who in this world can stop me?" Zhong Shan asked, staring at Gu Qianyou.


    Such bold words! Yin Luorie and the wolf generals were all taken aback by Zhong Shan''s confidence. Aside from Nangong Sheng, who else would dare speak so arrogantly?


    Yet Zhong Shan said it, and his trusted followers remained silent, as if they agreed.


    Yin Luorie looked at Zhong Shan curiously. Was this man truly that strong? It seemed his earlier suspicions were correct��Zhong Shan must have more means at his disposal.


    Zhong Shan''s confidence was well-founded. Not only did his shadow body possess formidable offensive power, but it also had incredible defensive capabilities. The shadow body could ignore formation restraints, travel underground, and hide within others'' shadows. With such abilities, who could harm him?


    "Alright," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    "Zhong Shan, you must be careful!" Xianxian also cautioned.


    "Understood. Now, all of you, leave quickly! Supreme Yin, what about you?" Zhong Shan suddenly turned to Yin Luorie.


    If Yin Luorie went back with everyone else, Zhong Shan would be reassured. With Yin Luorie, the journey would be absolutely safe. Although Jing Tianci and the Wine Elder were both at the Imperial Extreme Realm, and Mr. Corpse had a Heavenly Extreme Realm zombie under his control, meaning their safety was already well-secured, an additional Yin Luorie would certainly be wee.


    "Me? I want to see what this great ominous sign is all about!" Yin Luorie looked at the Wine Elder with a strange gleam in his eye.


    Was this about ''fortune'' and predicting luck and misfortune? Even though Yin Luorie had renewed his agreement with Gu Qianyou, he wasn''t entirely subordinate to her. Much like the rtionship between Di Xuanha and Zhong Shan, their rtionship was one of equals without stringent constraints.


    Seeing that Yin Luorie was unwilling to leave, Zhong Shan furrowed his brow in frustration but could do nothing.


    Looking at the group��Mr. Corpse, the Wine Elder, Xianxian, Gu Qianyou, Jing Tianci, and the twenty wolf generals��Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said in a solemn tone, "All of you, return to the celestial dynasty immediately. Remember, on your way back, follow Gu Qianyou''s orders and do not disobey."


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" they all replied promptly.


    This was a direct order and was to be taken seriously. Among them, Gu Qianyou was the wisest, so Zhong Shan naturally entrusted her with leadership.


    Gu Qianyou nodded and was about to lead the group away when��


    "Young master, it''s him, the traitor!"


    A sudden exmation of joy was heard. The voice was directed towards Zhong Shan''s direction. They hadn''t even left yet, and trouble had already arrived.


    Everyone looked towards the source of the voice.


    "Heavenly Family members?" The Wine Elder''s heart trembled in surprise.


    About fifty people approached, each dressed in white, emitting a soft white glow and exuding an air of arrogance. On their left chest was embroidered the character ''��'' (Tian) in gold trim.


    Among the fifty, one man pointed excitedly at the Wine Elder, causing the others to look in their direction.


    Zhong Shan''s brows knitted as he surveyed the group, noting two particrly striking individuals.


    One of them appeared very young, holding a green jade cane. He looked very schrly, with hair slicked back, exuding a carefree demeanor. His face was exceedingly handsome, but bore a weary expression, as if he had just woken up. Hisziness was only asionally interrupted by shes of sharp intelligence in his eyes. Although he seemed ordinary, he had an eerie aura of nobility and authority.


    The person who had pointed at the Wine Elder was calling out to this young man. Clearly, this young man was the so-called young master of the Heavenly Family.


    The group followed the lead of this young master, whose demeanor overshadowed everyone else, making them appear insignificant inparison.


    This was one noteworthy figure. The other caught Zhong Shan''s attention not because of his brilliance but because Zhong Shan recognized his face��an acquaintance from the mortal world with whom he had deep connections.


    Xiao Wang! The former rival, the husband of Ruyan and Jianhong, Xiao Wang!

 Chapter 631: Tenfold and Even More

    <h4>Chapter 631: Tenfold and Even More</h4>


    Xiao Wang had died but had not dissipated into nothingness; he had be a ghost in the underworld!


    Is it really Xiao Wang? Zhong Shan immediately recognized Xiao Wang, and Xiao Wang, in the crowd, also recognized Zhong Shan at once. He then looked at Gu Qianyou with a face full of surprise. After all, during the previous battle of the celestial dynasty, Xiao Wang had extensively studied the key members of the Da Luo Celestial Dynasty. How could he not recognize Gu Qianyou?


    "Are you Zhong Shan?" Xiao Wang still couldn''t believe it.


    As soon as Xiao Wang asked, everyone turned to look at him, including the young master of the Heavenly Family, who was now also puzzled by Xiao Wang''s behavior. What was Xiao Wang doing?


    "Xiao Wang," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Upon receiving confirmation from Zhong Shan, Xiao Wang looked at him with even more amazement. How did hee down here? Could it have been during the time when Gu Shentong opened the crack between the yin and yang realms?


    "Xiao Wang, who is this?" the young master of the Heavenly Family asked, slightly puzzled.


    "This is an old acquaintance from the mortal world," Xiao Wang immediately exined.


    "Oh?" The young master of the Heavenly Family showed little expression on hiszy face.


    At this moment, the Wine Elder was staring intently at the young master of the Heavenly Family, his eyes filled with doubt. But after a while, the Wine Elder moved closer to Zhong Shan. Seeing Zhong Shan''s puzzled look, the Wine Elder said, "This is the young master of the Heavenly Family, a rare genius of the past ten thousand years, Tian Xiao!"


    This scene was observed by Tian Xiao, who saw a sh of sharp intelligence in his eyes.


    "Young master, I request permission to capture this traitor of the Heavenly Family!" one of the Heavenly Family disciples stepped forward and said.


    "I request permission to capture this traitor of the Heavenly Family!" The requests kepting. The numerous disciples of the Heavenly Family all stepped forward, requesting to capture the Wine Elder. The Wine Elder initially showed panic in his eyes, but upon remembering Zhong Shan''s presence beside him, he calmed down, the initial fear disappearing.


    Seeing the Wine Elder''s change, Tian Xiao was slightly intrigued. He nced at Zhong Shan and then back at the Wine Elder.


    With a wave of his hand, all the Heavenly Family disciples fell silent.


    "Uncle Eight, it''s been five hundred years since west met, hasn''t it?" Tian Xiao smiled at the Wine Elder.


    Tian Xiao''s tone was very mild, but it carried an air of absolute authority. None of the Heavenly Family disciples behind him dared to speak.


    "Tian Xiao!" The Wine Elder forced a smile, but it looked very strained.


    "I remember the first spell I learned was taught by you, Uncle Eight. I never imagined that the uncle I respected the most would end up betraying the Heavenly Family," Tian Xiao sighed, shaking his head.


    "Betray? You know very well whether I betrayed or not!" The Wine Elder''s face turned cold.


    Shaking his head, Tian Xiao said, "Uncle Eight, don''t you understand? Whether you betrayed or not is not for me to decide, but for the elders of the family."


    "What? Do you want to capture me and take me back?" the Wine Elder asked in a deep voice.


    "With your abilities, I believe you can sense that I, Tian Xiao, have never had any ill intentions towards you," Tian Xiao said with a smile.


    Upon hearing Tian Xiao''s words, the Wine Elder''s expression turned uncertain. He stared at Tian Xiao and said, "You don''t want to extract that ability from me? Didn''t the elders say they would teach it to you if they extracted it from me?"


    "Haha, is that so? I am not aware of that. However, because you are my Uncle Eight, I won''t trouble you. Besides, I am toozy to trouble you," Tian Xiao shook his head.


    Upon hearing Tian Xiao''s words, the Wine Elder''s expression remained uncertain, unable to tell whether Tian Xiao was being truthful or not.


    "Rest assured, you should know my character, Uncle Eight. I always keep my word. If I say I won''t trouble you, then I won''t. But as for the other disciples in the family, I can''t say. At that time, you''ll have to rely on your own abilities. I believe with your skills, avoiding the Heavenly Family members shouldn''t be too difficult," Tian Xiao said with a smile.


    Staring at Tian Xiao, the Wine Elder observed him for a while longer before finally nodding, his gaze bing much softer.


    "You don''t need to worry about the rest," the Wine Elder said, shaking his head.


    "Your Majesty, we will leave now," the Wine Elder said respectfully to Zhong Shan.


    Seeing the Wine Elder''s respectful demeanor towards Zhong Shan, a glint of curiosity shed through Tian Xiao''s eyes.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded. There was nothing more to say in front of outsiders.


    The Heavenly Family members, who had previously been indignant, fell silent after Tian Xiao decided not to trouble the Wine Elder. Although disappointment was evident in their eyes, none dared to speak.


    "Be careful," Gu Qianyou reminded Zhong Shan as she prepared to leave.


    "Don''t worry," Zhong Shan nodded.


    A group of them stepped onto a white cloud, ready to depart.


    "Uncle Eight!" Tian Xiao suddenly called out to the Wine Elder.


    The Wine Elder turned to Tian Xiao, frowning, "What is it now?"


    "Before you go, let me give you one more piece of advice," Tian Xiao said with a smile.


    "What is it?"


    "With great poweres great responsibility. Take care, Uncle Eight," Tian Xiao said with a meaningful smile.


    "Hmph!" The Wine Elder''s face darkened as he nodded.


    Gu Qianyou and her group quickly left the vicinity of the Sea of Blood, heading back the way they came.


    Zhong Shan looked at Tian Xiao with curiosity. "With great poweres great responsibility?" This Tian Xiao didn''t seem like a simple character. His words carried profound meaning and hinted at hidden motives.


    After Gu Qianyou and her group left, only the Heavenly Family members, Zhong Shan, and Yin Luorie remained.


    "Supreme Yin, your reputation precedes you. I''ve long admired you," Tian Xiao said to Yin Luorie.


    "The young master of the Heavenly Family is too kind. I am but a brute," Yin Luorie replied, shaking his head. Even with his formidable strength, he still held a certain level of caution towards the Heavenly Family.


    "Young master, I have some personal matters to discuss with Zhong Shan," Xiao Wang suddenly said to Tian Xiao.


    "Oh? Very well, go ahead," Tian Xiao said, slightly taken aback but nodding in agreement.


    Seeing that Xiao Wang wanted to speak with him, Zhong Shan followed Xiao Wang to a secluded spot.


    In the distance, Tian Xiao engaged in conversation with Yin Luorie, while Zhong Shan and Xiao Wang stood on another mountain peak.


    "Mr. Xiao, what do you need to discuss with me?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Xiao Wang.


    Xiao Wang deeply bowed to Zhong Shan.


    "Mr. Xiao, what are you doing?" Zhong Shan quickly supported Xiao Wang.


    "Are you now an emperor?" Xiao Wang asked.


    "The Great Zhany Empire," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "As I thought. Well, I shall address you as Emperor Zhong. That bow was for Ruyan!" Xiao Wang said solemnly, taking a deep breath.


    "Ruyan? Is she well?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "She is well. Because of you, I knew she was still alive, and in the decades spent in the underworld, I finally found her again," Xiao Wang said with deep emotion.


    "But you don''t look like a ghost," Zhong Shan remarked, surprised.


    "It is thanks to the Heavenly Family. With their help, I was reincarnated, but only in the underworld," Xiao Wang said with a hint ofplexity in his tone.


    "Has Ruyan also been reincarnated?"


    "No, the risks of reincarnation are too great. I couldn''t bear to let her go through that," Xiao Wang shook his head.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Mr. Xiao, in the mortal world, there is something that weighs heavily on my mind. I wish to ask Emperor Zhong about it. Do you know anything?" Xiao Wang asked after a moment''s thought, taking a deep breath.


    "Are you asking about Jianhong?" Zhong Shan asked, staring at Xiao Wang.


    "You know?" Xiao Wang was surprised.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan sighed.


    "Emperor Zhong, what happened?" Xiao Wang immediately inquired.


    "Love often leaves behind nothing but regret. Mr. Xiao, see for yourself," Zhong Shan said, handing over a memory crystal.


    Xiao Wang quickly used a spell to activate it. Inside, it showed the final scene of Jianhong''s battle with Shen Qitian. This wasn''t recorded by Zhong Shan but by Ah Da, who had made it a habit to record such events. Zhong Shan discovered itter and had Gu Qianyou bring it to the underworld.


    "Mother, you can''t die!"


    "Die? I already died the moment your father did. If it weren''t for revenge, I would have followed him long ago. Now, I can finally see him again," Jianhong said sorrowfully.


    Watching the memory crystal, Xiao Wang''s tears streamed down his face. A stalwart man was now weeping like a child. This didn''t indicate that Xiao Wang had a weak heart but rather that his love was profoundly deep. Seeing the woman he loved die brutally at the hands of her enemy while seeking revenge for him shattered his heart. Clenching his teeth, Xiao Wang unintentionally crushed the memory crystal as the scene ended.


    "Shen Qitian," Xiao Wang said coldly, his voice filled with an icy chill.


    "Mr. Xiao?" Zhong Shan called.


    Xiao Wang slowly returned to his senses and bowed deeply to Zhong Shan once more. "Emperor Zhong, I will forever remember your great kindness. I owe you two debts."


    "I helped them not for your gratitude, so you don''t need to feel indebted," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "You may not care for my debt, but I, Xiao Wang, cannot pretend it didn''t happen. I cannot offer you much now, but in the future, I will repay you handsomely," Xiao Wang said solemnly.


    "However, regarding Jianhong, you should find her as soon as possible. The underworld is vast and full of dangers," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Thank you for your concern, Emperor Zhong," Xiao Wang nodded, clearly taking this matter to heart.


    The two then talked for a while longer, though neither revealed much about their backgrounds. Both instinctively avoided discussing sensitive topics, focusing instead on general matters of the mortal and underworld.


    After some time, Xiao Wang flew back to join the Heavenly Family, while Zhong Shan remained on the mountain, avoiding further interaction with them.


    Yin Luorie also returned.


    Tian Xiao, seeing Xiao Wang return, asked, "Xiao Wang, who is this Zhong Shan?"


    "He is the current emperor of the Great Zhany Empire, an old acquaintance from the mortal world, and a renowned wise man," Xiao Wang answered honestly.


    "A wise man? How does hepare to you?" Tian Xiao inquired.


    "He surpasses me tenfold," Xiao Wang admitted frankly.


    "Impossible!" Tian Xiao immediately retorted. To him, no one could surpass Xiao Wang by tenfold, not even himself.


    "Tenfold or even several times more," Xiao Wang insisted firmly.

 Chapter 632: The Trap of the Enclosing Net

    <h4>Chapter 632: The Trap of the Enclosing Net</h4>


    Tian Xiao led the disciples and subordinates of the Heavenly Family, observing the perimeter of the Sea of Blood without immediatelyunching an assault. He carefully surveyed the terrain, flying around the entire perimeter, and only after thoroughly understanding thendscape did he settle on a high mountain not far from Zhong Shan.


    Although Tian Xiao never directly looked at Zhong Shan, Zhong Shan could sense his subtle attention.


    Zhong Shan observed Tian Xiao as well but did not initiate any further contact. They were strangers with no need for unnecessary interaction.


    After surveying the area, Tian Xiao waited silently, his intentions unknown to anyone. This waitsted for three days.


    Meanwhile, on the outskirts of the Sea of Blood, as Gu Qianyou led her group back to the celestial dynasty, the Wine Elder suddenly halted.


    When the Wine Elder stopped, everyone else did as well.


    "What is it?" Gu Qianyou asked with a frown.


    "There is a bad omen," the Wine Elder replied.


    "Oh?"


    "A serious bad omen," the Wine Elder said, his brow furrowing deeper.


    He then scanned the surroundings, his eyes filled with increasing worry.


    "What''s happening?" Gu Qianyou asked, concerned.


    "We are surrounded by a serious bad omen. We''ve walked into a trap," the Wine Elder said with a worried expression.


    "A trap?"


    "Yes, an ambush. It may not be aimed directly at us, but it''s eerily extensive, as if it envelops arge area around the Sea of Blood. It''s a situation where one can only enter but not leave," the Wine Elder exined.


    "An ambush? Who would dare set an ambush here? This ce is gathering more and more powerful individuals!" Xianxian eximed.


    "It must be the one who spread the news about the Earth Book," Gu Qianyou spected.


    "Empress, what should we do next?" the Wine Elder asked.


    "What about the Sea of Blood?" Gu Qianyou inquired.


    "There is a grave omen there. His Majesty has been in a grave omen zone the entire time," the Wine Elder replied.


    "Then let''s not go back. Continue to return to the celestial dynasty as nned!" Gu Qianyou decided.


    "Yes!" everyone nodded in agreement.


    In a valley on the outskirts of the Sea of Blood, many people were moving around, and in the center stood a grand pce. Inside, two people were standing.


    One was a handsome man with purple hair, dressed in a purple robe, holding a beautifully crafted red jade short ruler, lightly tapping his palm, with a faint smile in his eyes.


    In front of him was a woman in a golden robe. She was very beautiful, but her face was extremely cold. She was looking at arge map with an indifferent expression.


    On her shouldery a fluffy, ball-shaped little beast.


    "Yan Yuyou, the elders have tasked us withmanding the ''Grand Pass'' position. When the timees..." the purple-haired man began.


    "Don''t worry. Ie from the mortal world and have no interest inpeting for power with you. Youmand; I won''t interfere," Yan Yuyou said calmly.


    "Oh? Very well. The mortal and underworld have many differences, and theirbat styles vary greatly. You can observe them all," the purple-haired man said, satisfied.


    The purple-haired man looked at Yan Yuyou, a sh of desire in his eyes, then nced at the little beast on her shoulder.


    "The Ancestral Beast, it''s a valuable treasure. Several elders in the Evesting Realm have their eyes on it. You should be careful," the purple-haired man said, staring at the beast.


    Looking at the little beast, a trace of barely concealed greed flickered in the purple-haired man''s eyes.


    The small beast, as if highly sensitive, suddenly flipped over from lying on Nian Yuyou''s shoulder and red fiercely at the purple-haired man. Despite the beast''s adorable appearance, its recked any killing intent.


    Yet, that single re from the beast caused the purple-haired man''s eyes to fill with panic. Abruptly, the surrounding environment transformed entirely.


    The purple-haired man''s face paled dramatically.


    "Elder, disciple knows his mistake..." he cried out in terror, his expression one of utter fear, as if a supreme power had descended. He almost fell to his knees.


    "Alright, Xiao Qing, stop causing trouble," Nian Yuyou said, patting the small beast.


    Only then did the beast stop ring at the purple-haired man and return to lying on Nian Yuyou''s shoulder, covering its small belly.


    "Zhi zhi zhi," the beast hummed a little tune that no one understood.


    At this moment, the purple-haired man suddenly came to his senses, quickly retreating a few steps, his face covered in cold sweat as he looked at the small beast with horror.


    Was it an illusion? He had no power to resist? Not even the slightest chance to fight back and he was already trapped in an illusion? How could this be? There were no signs at all.


    "Senior brother, are you alright?" Nian Yuyou asked.


    "I''m fine. The ancestral beast is truly powerful. No wonder several elders, despite their great strength, still covet it. Junior sister, you are very fortunate," the purple-haired man said, taking a deep breath.


    "It''s good that you''re alright," Nian Yuyou nodded.


    With that, Nian Yuyou left the hall with the small beast.


    The purple-haired man watched Nian Yuyou''s retreating figure, his eyes filled with even more greed. An unparalleled beauty, with an Imperial Extreme Realm physique, a Qian Ding body, and this ancestral beast��if he could have her, wouldn''t all of it be his?


    Perhaps sensing the purple-haired man''s ill thoughts, the ancestral beast lying on Nian Yuyou''s shoulder shifted, as if it was about to get up. Seeing this, the purple-haired man''s face changed drastically. He quickly formed a calming hand sign, reciting a calming spell to guard against the beast.


    However, this time the beast wasn''t causing trouble. It was simply changing its position after lying in one spot for too long.


    "Zhi zhi zhi," the beast continued humming its unknown tune, the sound fading as Nian Yuyou walked away.


    Only when Nian Yuyou and the beast were out of sight did the purple-haired man wipe the cold sweat from his forehead.


    Meanwhile, numerous powerful beings were flying toward the Sea of Blood. Among them was a unique group led by a figure with an imposing presence.


    At the forefront was a man wearing a t-topped crown and a dragon robe, exuding vast authority. His face, stern andmanding, radiated an aura of dominance. With every step he took, dragon energy swirled around him. This man was undoubtedly one of the two emperors of the underworld''s celestial dynasties.


    The quickest to receive the news and arrive was the emperor of the southern part of the underworld, the Great Yan Celestial Dynasty''s Emperor, Xing Taidou.


    This man was Xing Taidou, who brought nearly a hundred people with him. These individuals wore various attires; some donned the official robes of the Great Yan Celestial Dynasty, while others were dressed in in clothes.


    Following Xing Taidou closely were three individuals in ck robes.


    The three ck-robed figures werepletely shrouded in their garments, looking extremely thin. When the wind blew, their clothes fluttered, making them appear almost skeletal. However, the hands extending from their sleeves proved they were human.


    Their hands were exceptionally thin, the skin clinging to the bones, evoking a sense of dread in anyone who saw them.


    The three ck-robed figures stood with one at the forefront and two behind, each holding a tall, pitch-ck staff. They stood motionless, like statues, as they followed Xing Taidou toward the Sea of Blood.


    The three ck-robed individuals held a very special status. Apart from Xing Taidou, they seemed to have the highest rank among the group.


    "Stop!" the leading ck-robed individual suddenlymanded.


    Everyone abruptly halted, looking curiously at the three ck-robed figures.


    The leading ck-robed person remained still, but the two behind him nced around cautiously, then bowed respectfully to the one in front.


    "Three ''Mr. Jiu,'' is there something wrong?" Xing Taidou asked, puzzled.


    The leading ck-robed figure nodded, and one of the followers spoke up.


    "Something is off here," the ck-robed person said.


    His voice was extremely peculiar, a raspy sound as if it came from someone on the verge of death. It was a sickly voice, as if his vocal cords were severely damaged, making his speech very unsettling.


    "What''s wrong?" Xing Taidou asked, confused.


    "It''s a trap, an Enclosing Dragon Formation!" the ck-robed figure rasped.


    "An Enclosing Dragon Formation?"


    "The perimeter of the Sea of Blood is surrounded by an ambush. It''s a trap where one can only enter but not leave," the ck-robed figure exined.


    "An ambush?" Xing Taidou''s eyes narrowed.


    Xing Taidou''s ability to be the emperor of a celestial dynasty spoke to his considerable strength and intelligence. The mention of an ambush immediately made him think of the reasons and the revtion of the Earth Book''s existence.


    "Your Majesty, someone wants to reap the benefits without any effort," a court official analyzed respectfully.


    "Hmm. You will lead half the group, gather the forces of the four celestial dynasties, and destroy those ambushes. Do not let them ruin our grand n!" Xing Taidoumanded firmly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" the court official bowed in response.


    Leaving behind half of the group, about fifty people continued on their journey.


    They headed straight for the center of the Sea of Blood, drawn by the immense allure of the Earth Book.


    After the Evesting Realm retreated, the Great Yan Celestial Dynasty rushed in, joining the Heavenly Family. Nearly half of the underworld''s most powerful forces had now gathered at the Sea of Blood, all for Nangong Sheng''s Earth Book.


    On the outskirts of the Sea of Blood, Zhong Shan and Yin Luorie could see the Heavenly Family from a great distance.


    Neither side engaged the other; they merely observed the thick blood mist covering the Sea of Blood and the strong figures arriving from all directions.


    Tian Xiao appeared to be waiting for something, standing on the mountaintop without making any moves. He showed no signs of tension or seriousness, only a hint of weariness.


    Leaning on a green wooden staff, he yawned lightly, as if genuinely exhausted.


    "What do you think the Heavenly Family is up to? They''re not making a move," Yin Luorie asked curiously.


    "They''re waiting for someone," Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    "Waiting for whom?"


    "I don''t know," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Yin Luorie fell silent, pondering the situation.

 Chapter 633: The Five Flags

    <h4>Chapter 633: The Five gs</h4>


    Beyond the Sea of Blood.


    Tian Xiao stood with a group of Tian family disciples and subordinates, patiently waiting. His emerald-green staff rested on the ground, and though he initially just yawned to show his weariness, he now closed his eyes to meditate. This leisurely demeanor appeared peculiar to all the onlookers.


    Suddenly, Tian Xiao''s eyes snapped open, and a faint smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. A group of fifty people was flying toward them from afar, led by a domineering man wearing a t-topped crown and a robe adorned with nine dragons.


    "Xing Taidou?" Yin Luori squinted his eyes.


    Upon arrival, Xing Taidou scanned the crowd, nodding slightly when he saw Yin Luori. Yin Luori returned the nod before Xing Taidou''s gaze shifted to Tian Xiao.


    "Xing Taidou? You''ve finally arrived?" Tian Xiao smiled.


    It turned out that the person Tian Xiao had been waiting for was none other than Xing Taidou, the Emperor of the Dayan Dynasty.


    "And you must be the genius young master of the Tian family, Tian Xiao?" Xing Taidounded on a mountaintop with his entourage, gazing solemnly at Tian Xiao.


    "You''re too kind, I wouldn''t call myself a genius," Tian Xiao shook his head.


    "Five hundred and forty years, and you''ve reached the Sky Realm. If you aren''t a genius, who is? Three years ago, when you broke through to the Sky Realm, your family held a grand banquet. I regretted not being able to attend to witness such a prodigy. To meet here now is truly a fated opportunity!" Xing Taidou said with a smile.


    "Fated opportunity? Perhaps. Are you here for the ''Earth Book''?" Tian Xiao asked directly.


    "Aren''t you here for the same reason?" Xing Taidou replied.


    The conversation between two Sky Realm masters naturally left no room for their subordinates to intervene. The surrounding onlookers also remained silent, fixated on the two top figures in the underworld, both in terms of status and power.


    "Of course I am!"


    "Then why haven''t you made a move yet?" Xing Taidou stared at Tian Xiao.


    "I was waiting for you," Tian Xiao stared back.


    "Oh?"


    "In the Unaging Realm, Ye Qingcheng fought Nangong Sheng with the ying Immortal Sword. What do you think the oue was?" Tian Xiao asked.


    "Ye Qingcheng lost?" Xing Taidou frowned slightly.


    "Nangong Sheng only used a few chess pieces. Ye Qingcheng couldn''t even touch him and was forced to retreat!" Tian Xiao said solemnly.


    Xing Taidou''s pupils contracted, a look of surprise shing across his face.


    "Let your subordinate exin it to you," Tian Xiao said calmly.


    At that moment, a subordinate who had arrived earlier quickly handed over a memory crystal from a nearby peak.


    Xing Taidou examined the crystal, his brows furrowing deeper as he watched. Not far away, Zhong Shan frowned as he noticed something peculiar. Xing Taidou allowed three ck-robed men behind him to watch the memory crystal simultaneously, which was highly unusual. These three did not appear to be mere subordinates. What was their identity?


    It wasn''t just Zhong Shan who noticed this; Tian Xiao also cast a curious nce at the three. ording to the Tian family''s intelligence, there was no information on these three individuals.


    After finishing the memory crystal, Xing Taidou took a deep breath, his eyes filled with gravity. Handing the crystal back to his subordinate, he looked at Tian Xiao again.


    "So, what do you n to do?" Xing Taidou tossed the ball back to Tian Xiao.


    "You tell me."


    "After waiting so long, you must have more to say than just that," Xing Taidou chuckled.


    "The Emperor of Dayan is indeed straightforward. Since that''s the case, I''ll be direct. Ye Qingcheng''s strength should be on par with ours, and with the ying Immortal Sword, he possesses powerparable to that of an immortal."


    "Indeed," Xing Taidou nodded.


    "Yet, Nangong Sheng still defeated him effortlessly. If we face Nangong Sheng one force at a time, we won''t stand a chance," Tian Xiao analyzed.


    "Hmm. Do you think our cooperation could overpower Nangong Sheng?"


    "Haha, there''s no need to beat around the bush, Emperor. You should understand my point. In the past, when the Heavenly Dynasty from the Great Thousand World invaded, your Dayan and my Tian family repelled them together. We seized a set of immortal artifacts called the ''Five gs.'' My family obtained three, and you obtained two."


    "The Five gs?" Xing Taidou raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, the Five gs. A set of five immortal artifacts that can confine space and time within the array," Tian Xiao said seriously.


    "And how do we divide the Earth Book?" Xing Taidou frowned.


    "Nangong Sheng is not yet subdued. Isn''t it premature to discuss the Earth Book? Let''s deal with Nangong Sheng first and then decide," Tian Xiao suggested with a smile.


    "How can I trust you?"


    "Does the esteemed Emperor of Dayan fear me?" Tian Xiao smiled confidently, certain that Xing Taidou would ept his proposal.


    "Fear? Haha, fine, the Five gs Array it is!" Xing Taidou was not afraid of Tian Xiao.


    Immortal artifacts? A set of five? The countless powerful figures around them widened their eyes in amazement. Although the strongest treasures in this world were only of the ninth grade, the barrier between the underworld and the Great Thousand World was not very strong. Every few thousand years, invaders from the Great Thousand World would bring immortal artifacts, causing devastating defeats to the underworld armies.


    Immortal artifacts, treasures of immortals, were coveted by all, and everyone fixed their eyes on the two leaders.


    "Beforeing, I pinpointed the exact locations. Here''s theyout for the Five gs," Tian Xiao produced a jade slip, which recorded the positions for cing the Five gs.


    "Good!" Xing Taidou examined the jade slip and nodded.


    With a flick of his wrist, two strange small gs appeared in Xing Taidou''s hands. One was fiery red, the other pitch ck. He handed the jade slip and the two gs to his subordinates.


    On the other side, Tian Xiao took out three small gs: one was earth-yellow, another pure white like clouds, and thest was green like grass. He handed them to three Tian family disciples.


    "These are the so-called immortal artifacts?" Everyone stared intently.


    "Go."


    "Begin!"


    At themands of Xing Taidou and Tian Xiao, the five strong men quickly flew in all directions. Centered on the Sea of Blood, one artifact-bearer flew to each of the cardinal points. The one with the yellow g ascended high into the sky, heading straight for the blood-mist-shrouded sea.


    Throughout this, Nangong Sheng did not appear, as if he didn''t have the time or concern for the minions outside.


    "Rise!" Tian Xiao shouted.


    "Raise the treasure g������������������������������" came a loud shout from the east.


    Immediately, everyone saw the eastern g, a cyan-colored banner, rapidly expand. In an instant, it grew from palm-sized to a towering height of 100,000 feet, emitting countless rays of cyan light.


    "me Light g, rise������������������������������" came a loud shout from the south.


    "Cloud Realm g, rise������������������������������" came a loud shout from the west.


    "Water Control g, rise������������������������������" came a loud shout from the north.


    Following these three shouts, the southern, western, and northern immortal gs also expanded wildly, each reaching 100,000 feet in height in the blink of an eye. They radiated countless rays of red, white, and ck light.


    Countless beams of light shot straight into the entire Sea of Blood. The sea''s surface, roiling with blood mist, suddenly calmed under the pressure of the four intense lights.


    "Bastards����������������������������������������������������"


    A roar echoed from the depths of the Sea of Blood, and everyone recognized the voice as Nangong Sheng''s. Had Nangong Sheng been provoked? Was he about to emerge? The once calm sea erupted into violent waves, sending a surge of malevolent intent in all directions.


    "Apricot Yellow g, rise������������������������������"


    Another loud shout came from above the Sea of Blood.


    Then, everyone saw a dark yellow g rise with the wind, growing to a height of 100,000 feet. The dark yellow energy quickly surged into the Sea of Blood.


    The five different energies suddenly fused, forming a gigantic, multicolored energy barrier that suppressed the entire Sea of Blood.


    A strange phenomenon urred.


    At the moment the energy barrier formed, the entire Sea of Blood stilled, as if time had frozen. Everything inside was immobilized; the skyward blood waves stopped mid-air, and the surging blood mist halted.


    Time and space had been sealed?


    Everyone recalled Tian Xiao''s earlier words about sealing time and space. Sealing space was within the capabilities of some powerful figures in this small world, but sealing time too? What kind of immortal artifact could do this? It seemed exaggerated. Even the immortal artifacts they''d heard of in the past weren''t this absurd.


    The Five gs? This was the power of the Five gs Array? Even the world''s top formation masters were powerless against it?


    Countless gasps of astonishment arose from the surrounding crowd, marveling at the formidable power of the Five gs. Were the immortal artifacts of the Great Thousand World truly this powerful?


    In the distance, Zhong Shan stared at the Five gs, taking a deep breath. The Five gs Array? It was insanely powerful. This was the foundation of the Heavenly Dynasty and the Tian family? The Four Swords of Immortality, the ying Immortal Flying Dagger, the Rivers and Mountains Map, the Heaven-Opening Axe, the Five gs Array��each was an incredibly formidable treasure. Did his Dazhao possess anythingparable? Compared to these well-established powers, Dazhao still had a long way to go.


    Nangong Sheng, along with the Earth Book inside, was immobilized in an instant. This g array was ridiculously powerful, even capable of subduing an immortal.


    Satisfied with the scene, Tian Xiao turned to look at Xing Taidou.


    The two men stared at each other thoughtfully.


    "Alright, Nangong Sheng is subdued. Now let''s discuss the Earth Book," Xing Taidou said gravely.


    "How does the Emperor of Dayan propose we divide it?" Tian Xiao asked with a smile.


    "You suggested using the Five gs to subdue Nangong Sheng, so naturally, you should make the proposal," Xing Taidou responded.


    "Very well. Since the Emperor has spoken, I''ll make a humble suggestion. I''ve heard that the Emperor of Dayan is incredibly powerful, one of the strongest in the Sky Realm. I, a mere junior who broke through the Sky Realm three years ago, propose a duel. The winner gets the Earth Book," Tian Xiao stepped forward confidently.


    "Hahaha! You, a mere neer to the Sky Realm, wish to challenge me?" Xing Taidouughed, both amused and angered by Tian Xiao''s proposal.

 Chapter 634: The Fall of a Saint, Heaven and Earth Mourn

    <h4>Chapter 634: The Fall of a Saint, Heaven and Earth Mourn</h4>


    "Hahaha! You, a mere three-year novice in the Sky Realm, wish to challenge me?" Xing Taidouughed at Tian Xiao''s proposal.


    Xing Taidou''sughter was understandable. After all, he was the emperor who founded the Dayan Dynasty, a formidable force even among Sky Realm experts. But what was with this Tian Xiao? Just three years into the Sky Realm?


    A novice challenging an emperor with such confidence? At first, Xing Taidou felt insulted, but then his disdain turned into seriousness. Could arrogance alone reach the Sky Realm? If Tian Xiao were truly arrogant, how could he be deemed a genius?


    "What''s wrong? Is the mighty emperor afraid of losing to me?" Tian Xiao smiled.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan observed with furrowed brows. A young master from the Tian family challenging an emperor? Just how powerful was the Tian family? If a young master dared to provoke an emperor, what about the family head? How deep did the Tian family''s waters run?


    "Very well, but don''t me me for what''s toe!" Xing Taidou said.


    Tian Xiao smiled faintly, gripping his emerald-green staff. "I will rely on this immortal artifact."


    Tian Xiao waved his hand, and the Tian family members quickly retreated. Likewise, Xing Taidou''s men moved back. A Sky Realm battle was best observed from afar, given the immense power involved.


    "The Staff of Life? Left by an immortal from the Great Thousand World?"


    "Indeed, it''s a spoil of war from the Tian family."


    "Fine, today you''ll learn that without adequate skill, even an immortal artifact is of little use."


    "Then I won''t hold back!"


    With that, Tian Xiao waved his staff, releasing a flood of blue light. The blue light dispersed like water, turning into countless shimmering particles that floated through the air, forming small glowing seeds.


    "Seeds?" Zhong Shan eximed from afar.


    Indeed, the countless blue light dots were glowing seeds, scattering in all directions. As the seedsnded, Xing Taidou drew a grand, golden saber.


    Xing Taidou gazed at Tian Xiao with a stern expression.


    "It begins!" Tian Xiao said with a smile.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    Suddenly, the ground before Xing Taidou exploded, and a massive green vine shot skyward, heading straight for him.


    "Seeds? Did the vinee from those seeds?" Zhong Shan murmured in astonishment.


    What kind of immortal artifact could turn seeds into enormous vines?


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    Xing Taidou shed the vine with his saber.


    "Boom��������������boom������������boom������������boom��������������"


    Suddenly, countless vines sprouted from all directions, surging toward Xing Taidou.


    Xing Taidou frowned and swung his saber.


    A massive spatial ripple radiated outward in all directions.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The ground roared as the powerful spatial ripple crushed the vegetation. But the vines, strangely resilient, withstood the spatial tremors. These vines were strong enough to endure the spatial disturbance.


    "Such a treasure!" Xing Taidou tightened his grip on his saber,pelled to continually sh at the terrifying vines.


    Xing Taidou''s speed was unmatched, but the vines were numerous and relentless. Controlled by Tian Xiao, they grew wherever Xing Taidou moved. In no time, a massive area of vines surrounded Xing Taidou, pushing him in all directions.


    Of course, these vines couldn''t truly stop Xing Taidou. Each sh of his saber shattered countless vines. Meanwhile, Tian Xiao didn''t remain idle; he vanished from sight and reappeared, his staff aimed directly at Xing Taidou.


    "ng��������������������������������������"


    Xing Taidou shed fiercely, sending a massive spatial ripple outward, creating small spatial cracks at the point of impact.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The powerful strike collided with Tian Xiao''s staff, sending Tian Xiao flying. Xing Taidou remained unscathed.


    However, a vine suddenly wrapped around Xing Taidou, doubling in size instantly. Xing Taidou''s eyes widened in shock as he looked at the vine around his arm. With a shake, he shattered the vine.


    "This vine absorbs my energy?" Xing Taidou eximed, slicing through the surrounding vines in astonishment.


    The vines were absorbing energy and growing stronger? Were they bing sentient?


    Xing Taidou finally took Tian Xiao seriously.


    Tian Xiao pointed his staff, and countless vines surged towards Xing Taidou, harnessing the power of the earth and sky.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    Xing Taidou''s saber shed with Tian Xiao''s staff again, sending Tian Xiao flying once more.


    "Spurt��������������������������"


    Tian Xiao spat out a mouthful of blood but continued his assault. Xing Taidou, while dealing with Tian Xiao, was entangled by several vines. He shattered the vines and retreated from the encirclement, but Tian Xiao''s relentless advance pushed him back into the vine-filled area.


    Xing Taidou considered flying upwards but knew the vines'' strength. If he took to the sky, he would be entangled and pulled down, which would be even more disadvantageous. The vines here grew to an astonishing height of 100,000 feet, covering the entire area.


    The fierce battle had only just begun. Despite being outmatched, Tian Xiao held his ground for nearly two hours with the help of the vines, maintaining his position against Xing Taidou.


    From a distance, Yin Luorimented, "This won''t hurt Xing Taidou. Despite Tian Xiao''s immortal artifact, he''ll be the first to wear out."


    "Not necessarily," Zhong Shan observed closely. He noticed that Tian Xiao''s constant fighting had a purpose. Though repeatedly beaten back, Tian Xiao was driving Xing Taidou towards a specific direction��towards a trap Tian Xiao had set.


    Sure enough, Xing Taidou retreated to a rocky hill, the very spot where Tian Xiao had stood earlier.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    Tens of thousands of gigantic vines erupted from the rocky hill. The density of vines here was hundreds of times greater than elsewhere.


    Seeing this, Xing Taidou''s eyes filled with panic. No, he couldn''t let these vines entangle him, for he realized they were forming a grand array to trap him. Tian Xiao had been waiting here all along with this deep calction?


    A seasoned warrior, Xing Taidou immediately devised the best strategy. Brute force wouldn''t work; this vine array would definitely cost him dearly. He swung his massive saber down into the ground.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    A nearby mountain, nearly ten thousand feet tall, along with the endless vines, was uprooted by the strike,unching skyward and disappearing into the distant heavens. The ground beneath became a giant crater, ten thousand feet in diameter and a thousand feet deep.


    "Zzz����������������������������������������������������"


    Tian Xiao seized this moment to thrust his staff into Xing Taidou''s chest.


    "Ugh!" Xing Taidou spat out blood, staggering backward.


    Wiping his mouth, Xing Taidou snarled, "Good, very good, Tian Xiao! Let''s go again!" He was truly enraged now. How could someone weaker than him drive him to such a desperate situation?


    Suddenly, the sky turned a dull yellow as Xing Taidou''s might descended, forcing the onlookers to retreat further.


    Tian Xiao appeared to retreat as well, but Xing Taidou, now furious, wouldn''t let him escape. He pursued with a powerful sh of his saber.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The surrounding space roiled, a massive spatial rift heading for Tian Xiao. He raised his staff to meet the strike, but the impact drove him halfway into the ground.


    "Spurt��������������������������������"


    Blood spurted from Tian Xiao''s mouth. Xing Taidou, seeing this, grinned and prepared another strike to severely wound him.


    But Tian Xiao smiled eerily.


    At that moment, the mountain Xing Taidou hadunched into the sky began to fall back down, aimed precisely at Xing Taidou''s position, as if Tian Xiao had calcted it.


    Xing Taidou, shocked, saw countless vines rushing toward him again. The meticulous nning of Tian Xiao sent chills through him. He had no choice but to change the direction of his de and sh upwards.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The strike obliterated the falling mountain and the vines. Though Xing Taidou avoided the vine assault, he sensed a powerful presence closing in on him��Tian Xiao, seizing the opportunity once more.


    Xing Taidou, not daring to hesitate, quickly retreated. But where to retreat in and filled with vines? In his haste, he thought of one ce free from vines��the giant crater left by the mountain''s ascent. He moved towards the pit.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    To everyone''s astonishment, the crater, supposedly devoid of seeds and vines, suddenly erupted with countless vines, engulfing Xing Taidou in an instant.


    Countless vines swarmed over Xing Taidou, engulfing himpletely. In an instant, he was obscured from view as Tian Xiao took advantage of the situation and rushed into the fray.


    The entire crater was filled with vines,pletely enveloping the area. After about half an incense stick''s time, the vines slowly began to withdraw and then disappeared.


    In the crater, Tian Xiao and Xing Taidou were exposed once again. Both of them had tattered clothes and faced each other. Tian Xiao was severely injured, fresh blood still wet on his lips, while Xing Taidou stared at him with a mixture of astonishment and uncertainty.


    "Thank you for the match," Tian Xiao said.


    "Wow����������������������������������������������������"


    Tian Xiao won? The surrounding crowd was incredulous. Xing Taidou was a well-established name, and Tian Xiao had only recently reached the Sky Realm. How was this possible?


    "When did you nt these vine seeds? Why didn''t I see them earlier?" Xing Taidou pointed to the crater in disbelief.


    "Three days ago! I sowed the seeds before you arrived!" Tian Xiao revealed without hesitation.


    Three days ago? Before the battle even began, Tian Xiao had meticulously nned every step: the seeds, the vines, the mountain, the falling mountain, and this crater? He had calcted it all?


    How could this be? The level of nning was terrifying. Tian Xiao, the genius young master of the Tian family, had outwitted even Xing Taidou? Although Xing Taidou wasn''t injured, he was undeniably defeated.


    Tian Xiao was indeed formidable.


    Yin Luori looked at Tian Xiao in shock. "Is this man a monster? How could he n this battle three days in advance? And against the Emperor of Dayan, no less, making every move ording to his calctions?"


    "Fortunately, he just made preparations in advance. If this were a fight in an unfamiliar setting, the oue might be different," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    Yin Luori turned, looking at Zhong Shan like he was a monster himself. "Is that what you call fortunate? Aren''t you amazed?"


    Of course, Zhong Shan was surprised, but not as intensely as Yin Luori. If it were Zhong Shan, he too could set up such an intricate trap. He was only amazed that Tian Xiao also had this capability.


    Just as everyone marveled at Tian Xiao''s meticulous nning:


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    Suddenly, countless red clouds covered the sky, and a thunderous explosion echoed, leaving everyone''s ears ringing. This sound was reminiscent of the ancient gods splitting the heavens and the earth, resonating through all directions.


    Zhong Shan looked up in shock. Both his shadow body and his main body in the mortal world stopped what they were doing, looking up at the sky. What was this sudden thunder?


    Everyone around Zhong Shan also looked up.


    Was someone undergoing a tribtion?


    Only Zhong Shan knew this wasn''t a tribtion. The mortal world was also covered in endless red clouds.


    The endless red clouds enveloped the sky, and suddenly, it began to rain blood. Infinite blood rain fell from the heavens.


    Throughout the world, in all directions, countless powerful beings stopped what they were doing and looked up at the sky. What was happening?


    In the mortal world, Divine Crow Daojun, Lu Guitian, Prince Lietian, Ying, Li Si, Nie Fancheng, Di Xuanhua, Gui Shou, and countless others looked up, staring at the strange blood rain with a sense of boundless sorrow.


    "What is happening? What exactly is going on?"


    "What''s wrong with the sky?"


    "Why is it raining blood?"


    The sudden change left everyone feeling caught off guard.


    Near Zhong Shan''s location, among the crowd from the Dayan Dynasty, three ck-robed figures holding staffs looked up at the sky. The one in front remained silent while the two behind showed signs of panic.


    One of the ck-robed figures called out to the leader, "Elder, what is happening?"


    The leader of the ck-robed figures was silent for a moment before saying, "A sage has fallen, and heaven and earth mourn."


    "A sage has fallen in the Great Thousand World?" the previously panicked ck-robed figure asked in shock.

 Chapter 635: The Witch Tribe

    <h4>Chapter 635: The Witch Tribe</h4>


    In the Yang Realm, the sky was filled with rolling clouds of blood, covering the entire world. Blood rain poured down from all directions, filling the air with an ominous red hue. Themon folk knelt in fear and prayer, while cultivators gazed at the heavens with solemn faces. Above, a profound sense of destion pierced everyone''s hearts.


    As the blood rain fell to the ground, wisps of blood mist began to rise, adding to the terror of the already panicked people.


    "What is happening? Why has the world turned so bloody? Blood clouds? Blood rain? Blood mist?"


    In the Realm of Longevity, the Daoist Master of the Divine Crow looked up at the sky, his eyes narrowing. Behind him, a few figures in ck robes stepped forward.


    "Esteemed Elders, is this the sign of a saint''s demise recorded in our Longevity Realm''s annals?" the Daoist Master of the Divine Crow asked in a deep voice.


    "The Grand Thousand Worlds are in constant turmoil. Another saint has fallen!" one of the figures behind him sighed.


    The Daoist Master of the Divine Crow nodded, a look of profound solemnity in his eyes.


    In the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, inside the pce of the Crown Prince of the Sky-Splitter, Wang Chen looked at the solemn-faced Crown Prince with confusion.


    "Master, what is going on? Blood rain from the sky? Blood mist rising from the earth?" Wang Chen asked.


    The Crown Prince of the Sky-Splitter nced around, a cold smile curling his lips. "Good, good. Another saint has fallen. The heavens and the earth mourn together. Ha ha!"


    His eyes were filled with schadenfreude, as if he bore immense hatred towards the saints of the Grand Thousand Worlds.


    In the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty, within the holynd of Xianyang, the imperial court session came to a halt. Ying stepped out of the main hall, looking up at the sky. Behind him followed Li Si and other key officials of the Great Qin.


    "Your Majesty, is this the fall of a saint in the Grand Thousand Worlds?" Li Si frowned.


    "Indeed, the fall of a saint, the mourning of the heavens and earth!" Ying said solemnly.


    "A saint? Aren''t saints immortal and indestructible? How can they fall?" Li Si looked surprised.


    "Immortal and indestructible? Nothing is truly immortal. Even the heavens have an end. How could saints be any different? Longevity is easy; immortality is hard!" Ying shook his head.


    "Longevity is easy; immortality is hard?" Li Si pondered Ying''s words.


    "Your Majesty, I firmly believe that our Great Qin will achieve both longevity and immortality in the future. Our Great Qin will definitely live forever!" Li Si dered resolutely.


    "Our Great Qin will definitely live forever!" the other officials echoed powerfully.


    "Hmm!" Ying nodded.


    In an unknown valley, a white-robed, white-haired man sat cross-legged with his eyes closed. His hands formed a lotus mudra, as if he were in a state of deep meditation. This man was Xuan Yuan, the master of the Creation God Pce and an acquaintance of Zhong Shan.


    At the moment the blood rain descended, Xuan Yuan opened his eyes. Looking up at the sky, a sharp light shone in his gaze.


    "The Grand Thousand Worlds are in chaos again? A saint has fallen? I hope it does not affect this Lesser Thousand World," Xuan Yuan said calmly. He then closed his eyes once more, resuming his cultivation as if the death of a saint meant nothing to him.


    ..................


    Many experts looked up at the sky in contemtion. The fall of a saint touched the hearts of everyone in the world, not only in the Grand Thousand Worlds but also in the Lesser Thousand Worlds.


    Who had died?


    In the Nether Realm, outside the floating Blood Sea, Zhong Shan turned to look at the three ck-robed figures who had spoken.


    It was these three who had mentioned the fall of a saint and the mourning of the heavens and earth.


    "Supreme Yin, have you ever heard of a saint?" Zhong Shan asked Yin Luoyue beside him.


    "Saints? In our Tiger Tribe''s ancient texts, there is mention of them. They are said to be immortal and indestructible beings in the Grand Thousand Worlds. However, the blood rain and mist we see now are simr to an event recorded in our tribe''s history, though it did not ur in the Grand Thousand Worlds. We never understood its true meaning," Yin Luoyue exined without concealment.


    "Once before? That means there are records of two saints'' falls?" Zhong Shan''s brows furrowed.


    Saints��Zhong Shan had heard of them in his youth. The heavens are ruthless, treating all beings as mere straw dogs; saints are ruthless, treating the people as mere straw dogs! Were these saints the ones mentioned by those three ck-robed figures?


    Tian Xiao and Xing Taidou also looked up at the sky, their brows furrowing after a while. Then, Tian Xiao nced at the Five Elements g Array nearby.


    "Your Majesty of Dayan, thank you for your leniency. I, Tian Xiao, am grateful!" Tian Xiao said solemnly.


    Tian Xiao did not show any trace of mockery, for he knew that in terms of true strength, he was no match for Xing Taidou. He had merely used a clever trick and set a trap beforehand.


    Xing Taidou looked at Tian Xiao with a strange expression, his eyes flickering.


    "What? Does Your Majesty of Dayan n to renege on your word?" Tian Xiao''s face darkened.


    Reneging? For a ruler, their words are facts, their promises invible. How could he renege? If a ruler went back on his word, it would mean that his decrees were changeable, and his dynasty would notst long.


    "It''s not that I don''t acknowledge it, but it''s not up to me," Xing Taidou shook his head with a bitter smile.


    Hearing this, Tian Xiao looked around in shock. Who could prevent Xing Taidou from making a decision?


    The countless experts surrounding them were equally stunned. Who could restrain Xing Taidou? He was the emperor of a heavenly dynasty, one of the most powerful figures in this Lesser Thousand World. Who else could control him?


    Suddenly, a massive blue light burst out from within the Five Elements g Array, shooting straight up into the sky.


    The enormous blue light pierced the heavens, instantly dispersing the endless blood rain and breaking through the blood clouds. A vast hole appeared in the blood clouds high above.


    Through this massive hole in the blood clouds, everyone could see the distant starry sky, where countless stars shone brightly. Rays of green light shot from the distant stars directly into the Five Elements g Array.


    The five individuals controlling the Five Elements g Array were instantly shattered by this immense ster power.


    Ster power? Drawing the power of the stars?


    Countless experts watched this scene in astonishment, realizing one key point.


    Namely, that Nangong Sheng inside had not been restrained by the Five Elements g Array at all. Not only had he been free, but he also took this moment to continue breaking the Earth Book''s seal.


    "Nangong Sheng was never restrained? He deceived everyone while breaking the Earth Book''s seal?" Yin Luoyue eximed in surprise.


    "Not only that, but Nangong Sheng also broke through at this critical moment!" Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "The world''s number one formation master truly lives up to his reputation. Trying to imprison him with a formation is simply wishful thinking!" Yin Luoyue swallowed hard and sighed.


    As Nangong Sheng broke through the Earth Book''s seal, the entire gathering of experts erupted in excitement. Nangong Sheng was indeed the most legendary figure of this realm, incredibly powerful. Even the celestial artifact Five Elements g Array couldn''t hold him. Moreover, he took advantage of the battle between two powerful beings to focus on his own task.


    Xing Taidou shifted his stance, ready to move, but Tian Xiao immediately blocked his way.


    "Your Majesty of Dayan, there''s no need for you to intervene!" Tian Xiao flew up to intercept Xing Taidou.


    Just as Tian Xiao was about to take over the Five Elements g Array, three ck-robed figures suddenly appeared before the array.


    Each of the three figures leaned on a staff as tall as a person. In the gentle breeze, their clothes revealed skeletal frames beneath.


    "Xing Taidou, what do you mean by this? These are your people of Dayan, do you intend to go back on your word?" Tian Xiao''s eyes widened as he red.


    Three ck-robed figures stood, one at the forefront and two behind. As Tian Xiao shouted, one of the ck-robed figures at the back turned to look at him, surrounded by a thick ck aura.


    "Who are you?" Tian Xiao immediately demanded.


    At this moment, Tian Xiao realized that these figures were not Xing Taidou''s subordinates.


    "Mei����������������������������������������������������"


    One of the ck-robed figures at the back suddenly uttered a bizarre incantation, and a dark aura enveloped Tian Xiao.


    "Young Master!" Many disciples of the Tian family rushed forward.


    "Bang!"


    A burst of blue light shot out as Tian Xiao used his celestial staff to disperse the ck aura, looking at the ck-robed figure in shock.


    "Witch, Witch Tribe?" Tian Xiao eximed, staring at the three ck-robed figures.


    "Xing Taidou, you, you have such audacity! How dare you break our pact? How dare you collude with people from the Grand Thousand Worlds?" Tian Xiao red furiously at Xing Taidou.


    Grand Thousand Worlds, Witch Tribe?


    Everyone around furrowed their brows upon hearing Tian Xiao''s words, all turning their gaze to the three ck-robed figures. Were these three from the Grand Thousand Worlds? How did they get in? Was Xing Taidou colluding with forces from the Grand Thousand Worlds?


    Before Tian Xiao could finish speaking, one of the ck-robed figures suddenly extended an index finger and lightly pointed at Tian Xiao. A ripple emanated from his fingertip.


    "Bang����������������������������������������������������"


    Tian Xiao quickly raised his life staff to shield himself, but the ck-robed figure was too powerful. With just one finger, Tian Xiao was sent flying, spitting out a mouthful of blood as his face turned pitch ck.


    "Young Master!" A group of Tian family members swiftly caught Tian Xiao.


    The powerful impact caused those who caught Tian Xiao to also spit blood. Two of them fainted directly from the shock.


    Tian Xiao''s face was extremely dark, his eyes unfocused. It was clear that in front of this ck-robed figure, he had no power to resist and was struggling to stay conscious.


    "Tian family disciples, heed mymand!" Tian Xiao weakly ordered.


    "Young Master!" everyone responded immediately.


    "During my unconsciousness, Xiao Wang will lead. Everyone must obey Xiao Wang. Anyone who disobeys will be treated as a traitor to the Tian family!" Tian Xiao said weakly.


    "Yes!" The Tian family disciples, though discontented with the outsider Xiao Wang, dared not disobey the young master''s order.


    After speaking, Tian Xiao closed his eyes and fainted. It was evident that the ck-robed figure was incredibly strong. A single finger had knocked Tian Xiao unconscious.


    Tian Xiao, a master of the Tian Ji realm, was knocked out with just one finger? The surrounding experts were filled with dread. Were the people of the Grand Thousand Worlds truly this powerful? Witch Tribe? What technique was that? Why did we not understand what happened before Tian Xiao was knocked out?

 Chapter 636: The World

    <h4>Chapter 636: The World</h4>


    "Take the Young Master and the unconscious ones and retreat immediately!" Xiao Wang made a quick decision.


    "Yes," the Tian family disciples responded immediately. They swiftly picked up Tian Xiao and the unconscious individuals and began to retreat.


    However, at that moment, Xing Taidou''s figure flickered, appearing before the retreating Tian family disciples.


    "Tian family disciples, are you abandoning your Five Elements g?" Xing Taidou asked with a strange smile.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan watched the scene unfold.


    "Supreme Yin, we should retreat quickly!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Agreed!" Yin Luoyue nodded, now understanding the ominous warning from the old man. The Witch Tribe from the Grand Thousand Worlds? Staying here any longer was clearly extremely dangerous.


    "Follow me!" Xiao Wang shouted.


    Without hesitation, the Tian family disciples turned and followed Xiao Wang. Instead of fleeing outward, they headed straight towards Zhong Shan. Xing Taidou''s eyes filled with confusion.


    Seeing Xiao Wang and the others approaching, Zhong Shan and Yin Luoyue''s brows furrowed.


    "Senior Yin, the Young Master once mentioned that you owe the Tian family a great debt. Xiao Wang asks for nothing else but for Senior Yin to help us leave this ce. If you do, the past debt will be considered repaid!" Xiao Wang shouted.


    Xiao Wang quickly assessed the situation and realized that Xing Taidou and the three members of the Witch Tribe would not let them leave. He immediately thought of Yin Luoyue and quickly led the group over.


    Meanwhile, the three members of the Witch Tribe were not idle. The leader of the group stood motionless with his staff, while the one who had attacked Tian Xiao turned to scan the surrounding experts. Thest member of the Witch Tribe, seemingly following the leader''smand, stepped forward.


    With his staff, he lightly tapped towards the Five Elements g Array.


    "Bang����������������������������������������������������"


    The space in front of the staff shattered instantly, a pitch-ck passageway shooting straight towards the Five Elements g Array.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The terrifying power made the Lesser Thousand World''s space seem fragile. A single tap caused such a massive impact. Yet, as the powerful passageway reached the Five Elements g Array, it stopped eerily, blocked by the array.


    "The Five Elements g Array is controlled by Nangong Sheng?" Xing Taidou eximed in shock.


    He had heard of Nangong Sheng''s formidable mastery of formations, but this was beyond belief. The celestial artifact-based Five Elements g Array had been taken over by him?


    How was this possible?


    Not only Xing Taidou, but countless other experts shared the same thought. Nangong Sheng was incredible beyond words.


    "Hmph����������������������������������������������������"


    The Witch Tribe member let out a cold snort, and his staff emitted an eerie white light, cold as bone. The white light transformed into a ball of energy that crashed into the Five Elements g Array.


    This time, the space did not shatter, and the impact did not produce a loud sound. However, the vast shield formed by the Five Elements g Array visibly caved in as if a tremendous force was pressing down on it.


    "Yao����������������������������������������������������"


    The Witch Tribe member uttered a bizarre incantation.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    A thunderous explosion erupted at the location of the Five Elements g Array, shattering the space and turning a vast area into a pitch-ck void. A terrifying ck hole began to absorb everything around it.


    The Five Elements g Array had been broken!


    As the array shattered, five streams of light shot out in all directions like meteors.


    Those were the Five Elements gs! Xing Taidou''s figure flickered as he quickly pursued the five gs. Those were treasures.


    Other experts also chased after the gs, the allure of celestial artifacts was too great to resist.


    After the powerful spatial rupture, the space gradually began to restore itself. The blood sea that had once filled the area vanished, leaving behind a massive crater spanning ten thousand feet.


    From the giant crater, Nangong Sheng, d in ck robes and holding a massive iron book, slowly emerged from the ck hole.


    "Who are you?" Nangong Sheng asked, a hint of surprise in his eyes as he looked at the three members of the Witch Tribe.


    "When we captured the Qilin that day, do you remember a giant hand that covered the sky?" the Witch Tribe member who broke the array asked in a deep voice.


    "Are you him? With his power, he might be able to break through the barriers of this world, but he couldn''t enter," Nangong Sheng asked solemnly.


    "That was our ancestor!" the Witch Tribe member replied.


    "Oh? No wonder!" Nangong Sheng''s eyes turned cold.


    "Hand over the Earth Book, and I''ll grant you a swift death!" the Witch Tribe member said coldly.


    "Hahahaha, just you?" Nangong Shengughed loudly.


    "Hmph!" The Witch Tribe member snorted, pointing his staff at Nangong Sheng again.


    A strange, pitch-ck energy slowly emerged from the staff, transforming into a towering ghost that howled mournfully as it charged towards Nangong Sheng.


    Wherever the ghost passed, the space shattered. A terrifying aura shot directly at Nangong Sheng.


    The sheer force of this aura caused many distant experts to feel a chill from the depths of their souls.


    "Hmph!" Nangong Sheng snorted coldly.


    He raised the Earth Book, and a profound yellow light shot out towards the ghost.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The ghost exploded, and the powerful yellow light continued its charge towards the Witch Tribe member. The member blocked it with his staff.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The Witch Tribe member was forced back a hundred feet, while Nangong Sheng also retreated about ten feet.


    "The Earth Book, truly a remarkable treasure!" the leading Witch Tribe member finally spoke.


    He took a step forward.


    "Hmph, this Lesser Thousand World is not a ce for you. Leave immediately, or your already limited lifespan will be cut tenfold," Nangong Sheng said solemnly.


    "You''re referring to the reverse time flow, aren''t you? But our ancestor''s orders are not to be defied. Once I obtain the Earth Book, we will naturally leave!" the leading Witch Tribe member said calmly.


    As the leading Witch Tribe member took a step forward, Nangong Sheng''s brows furrowed deeply, forming a character of worry. He could sense that while he might have a chance against the previous member with the Earth Book, this leader gave him an overwhelming sense of powerlessness.


    "My son, follow me. Today, I will teach you the ''Soul Disintegration'' technique. My disciple, clean up those irrelevant individuals!" the leading Witch Tribe member said indifferently.


    "Yes!" the other two members immediately responded.


    "Eliminate irrelevant individuals? Clean them up?"


    Upon hearing this, everyone knew that things were bad. These three members of the Witch Tribe intended to kill everyone who wasn''t essential? Silence all witnesses?


    This?


    Countless experts turned and fled towards the outside world.


    Zhong Shan''s group naturally also fled towards the outside.


    Unfortunately, what stood before them was not the strongest of the Lesser Thousand World, but the eerie Witch Tribe from the Grand Thousand World.


    The Witch Tribe member who had previously dealt with Tian Xiao waved his staff.


    Suddenly, the sky darkened, and the entire world became pitch ck. The previously abundant blood clouds and blood rain vanished.


    In an instant, all the experts found themselves seemingly in a new ce��no sky, no earth, just an eerie ckness, as if isted from the outside world.


    People were infinitely terrified, fleeing quickly, but the dark environment seemed endless, impossible to escape from. No matter how far they flew, it felt as if they hadn''t moved at all, still standing in the same spot.


    The terrifying phenomenon made everyone''s hair stand on end. They quickly surveyed their surroundings, seeing that all the other experts were just as immobilized.


    But this wasn''t the key issue. The key issue was that the surroundings seemed to be filled with a strange smoke. Those with lower cultivation levels began to slowly lose consciousness.


    One by one, people continued to fall unconscious.


    Gradually, more and more people sumbed to the sleep-inducing smoke.


    People tried to stay calm and focused, resisting the urge to sleep because, while the surroundings were incredibly strange, they were still conscious. Once they fell unconscious, they would be utterly defenseless.


    One by one, they fell unconscious.


    Soon, all the experts around had lost consciousness.


    Xiao Wang was unconscious, the Tian family disciples were unconscious, and among countless experts, only two remained awake.


    One was Yin Luoyue, and the other was Zhong Shan!


    The two looked warily at the Witch Tribe member.


    "This is the great cmity. I finally understand what it is!" Yin Luoyue said with a bitter smile.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I''m not sure, but our Tiger Tribe has records of something from the Grand Thousand World, called the ''World.'' It is an evolved form of ''Heaven.'' Those at the Heavenly Realm control ''Heaven,'' and after bing immortals, ''Heaven'' is further perfected to form a small world of their own. Only powerful immortals can independently form a ''World.'' Even ordinary immortals don''t have this ability!" Yin Luoyue''s face grew increasingly grim as he spoke.


    A ''World''? The ability of powerful immortals? Does this mean the Witch Tribe member before us is stronger than an ordinary immortal, able to create his own ''World'' with a wave of his hand?


    "Don''t be too tense. In the Lesser Thousand World, their power is suppressed by the local heavens and earth," Zhong Shan emphasized.


    "But even so, they still..." Yin Luoyue remained worried.


    "Ancient Shentong could kill him. What are you afraid of? No matter how strong, there are limits!" Zhong Shan reassured.


    Ancient Shentong? Yin Luoyue was speechless. Indeed, Ancient Shentong could kill him; of this, Yin Luoyue was certain. Ancient Shentong nearly killed this Lesser Thousand World; how hard could it be to kill an outsider constrained by the Lesser Thousand World?


    However, Ancient Shentong was Ancient Shentong. Who could be as monstrous as him?


    "The great powers of the Grand Thousand World dare not enter. How could these less powerful members of the Witch Tribe stay so long without issue? There must be a w. I''ll find it. We fight; not fighting means death. Fighting gives us a chance!" Zhong Shan said resolutely.


    "And what about you?" Yin Luoyue immediately asked.


    "If you can''t handle him, I''ll take over!" Zhong Shan said firmly.

 Chapter 637: The Four Grades of Immortals - Heaven, Earth, Black, and Yellow

    <h4>Chapter 637: The Four Grades of Immortals - Heaven, Earth, ck, and Yellow</h4>


    "If you can''t handle him, then I''ll take over!" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    His confident tone made both Yin Luoyue and the Witch Tribe member pause. Although Tian Xiao had been easily defeated by this Witch Tribe member, the fighting spirit of a true warrior cannot be easily suppressed. With Zhong Shan as a reliable backup, Yin Luoyue clenched his fists and stepped forward. The Witch Tribe member''s strength, though formidable, was certainly diminished under the constraints of the Lesser Thousand World. This limitation was precisely what Yin Luoyue was counting on.


    The "World" ability restricted numerous experts, rendering them immobile. However, those with the embryonic form of a "Heaven" could resist the world''sws with their own "Heaven."


    "Young Master of the Tian Family, how long are you going to keep up this act?" Zhong Shan said with a peculiar smile.


    Zhong Shan''s sudden remark made Yin Luoyue stumble and drew the Witch Tribe member''s attention.


    Young Master of the Tian Family? What did Zhong Shan mean?


    Everyone turned to look at Tian Xiao, whose face was still pitch ck after being struck by the Witch Tribe member. As the crowd focused on him, Tian Xiao''s eyelids twitched.


    Everyone: "..."


    Sure enough, the ckness on Tian Xiao''s face began to fade, and he slowly sat up.


    Everyone: "..."


    "How are you unscathed?" the Witch Tribe member asked in a raspy voice, staring at Tian Xiao.


    Yin Luoyue was equally puzzled.


    Tian Xiao was unharmed? Was he pretending all along? Both the Witch Tribe member and Yin Luoyue looked at the slowly rising Tian Xiao with utter bewilderment. What was he doing earlier? Faking his death? And so dramatically at that?


    "I thought that by pretending to be mortally wounded, I could avoid being targeted by you and Xing Taidou. I didn''t expect you to have mastered the ''World'' ability, a miscalction on my part!" Tian Xiao shook his head, staring at the Witch Tribe member.


    When he was severely injured by the Witch Tribe member, Tian Xiao realized Xing Taidou intended to kill everyone to silence them. Severely wounded and unable to escape, his only option was to feign death. Pretending to be gravely injured was the only way to make them lower their guard. His strategy had partially seeded; the Witch Tribe member no longer targeted him, and Xing Taidou didn''t immediately kill him.


    At the same time, in the Yang Realm, within the Longevity Hall of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan sat on his throne, with a group of ministers from the Great Zong before him.


    "Wang Ku, do you know about the ''World'' ability of immortals?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Wang Ku was slightly surprised but nodded.


    "What kind of power do those who possess a ''World'' have?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The Grand Thousand World is home to many races, but there is amon hierarchy. Starting from the ck Immortal, one can have a rudimentary ''World,''" Wang Ku exined.


    "Oh? ck Immortal?"


    "Indeed. This ssification begins before bing an immortal. Before achieving immortality, each realm has ten levels, much like your current Imperial Extreme Realm, which also has ten levels. However, the Heavenly Extreme Realm has twelve levels."


    "Understood."


    "At the ninth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm, one can undergo tribtion to be an immortal and ascend to the Grand Thousand World. However, many choose not to. Do you know the primary reason for this?" Wang Ku asked.


    "Oh? What is the reason?"


    "There are four grades of immortals��Heaven, Earth, ck, and Yellow. They correspond to Heavenly Immortal, Earth Immortal, ck Immortal, and Yellow Immortal. Achieving immortality at the ninth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm results in bing a Yellow Immortal, also known as a Human Immortal. At the tenth level, one bes a ck Immortal; at the eleventh level, an Earth Immortal; and at the twelfth level, a Heavenly Immortal," Wang Ku exined.


    "So, the higher the Heavenly Extreme Realm level, the higher the grade of immortality one achieves?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "Yes, the lifespan of the Heavenly Extreme Realm is ten thousand years. Naturally, the higher the realm at the time of tribtion, the better. Breaking through after bing an immortal is exponentially more difficult. The difference in power between a Heavenly Immortal and a Human Immortal is vast," Wang Ku exined.


    "Twelve levels? Heavenly Immortal?" Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "In that case, Ancient Shentong must have been at the twelfth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm! Otherwise, he wouldn''t have dared to create the heavens and earth!" Zhong Tian nodded in agreement.


    "No wonder Your Majesty once said that even immortals might not be as powerful as Ancient Shentong," Zhao Suoxiang remarked.


    In the Nether Realm, at the location of Zhong Shan''s shadow body.


    "Supreme Yin, I was indeed injured earlier. However, don''t worry about fighting him. His ''World'' is just in its embryonic form, equivalent to the power of a ck Immortal, and he is suppressed by the Lesser Thousand World. You can definitely fight him!" Tian Xiao shouted to Yin Luoyue.


    "Bullshit, why don''t you fight him?" Yin Luoyue red at Tian Xiao.


    "A ck Immortal? You actually know about ck Immortals?" The Witch Tribe memberughed eerily.


    A ck Immortal, even the weakest, was still an immortal. Although it was unclear why there was no heavenly repulsion in this realm, his immense power was undeniable. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have been able to severely injure Tian Xiao with one move. Moreover, immortals have their own mysterious techniques, and this was his world.


    "And you, how did you know I wasn''t really unconscious?" Tian Xiao suddenly stared at Zhong Shan.


    "Young Master of the Tian Family, do you really faint that easily?" Zhong Shan replied with a question.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Tian Xiao furrowed his brows again.


    "Supreme Yin, let''s begin!" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Alright!" Yin Luoyue nodded, flipping his hand to produce a long spear, from which a murderous aura emanated.


    "Cackle... You think you can beat me? One of you is at the eighth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm, another at the first level, and yet another at the first level of the Imperial Extreme Realm?" The Witch Tribe member let out an eerieugh.


    Reaching out, the Witch Tribe member extended his palm. A faint spatial ripple spread from his palm.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    Yin Luoyue''s spear shot towards the Witch Tribe member, a powerful aura directly targeting him. Around the spear, a giant tiger head made of energy roared towards the Witch Tribe member.


    "Roar����������������������������������������������������"


    The spear roared as it collided with the energy emanating from the Witch Tribe member''s palm.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    With a powerful collision, Yin Luoyue''s spear stopped three feet from the Witch Tribe member''s palm, unable to advance. Yin Luoyue''s eyes were filled with shock. Was the Witch Tribe member truly this powerful?


    "Cackle..."


    As the Witch Tribe member let out a coldugh, a white light shed, and Tian Xiao suddenly vanished from his original spot, thrusting his life staff towards the Witch Tribe member.


    Tian Xiao understood that if the Witch Tribe member wasn''t eliminated, he would surely die. Yin Luoyue couldn''t lose; they needed to take down the Witch Tribe member in one strike.


    "Buzz����������������������������������������������������"


    The Witch Tribe member turned his face towards Tian Xiao, and it seemed as if a massive energy wall appeared in front of Tian Xiao. His forward momentum slowed drastically, and like Yin Luoyue, he couldn''t advance any further, his staff stopping three feet away.


    "Roar����������������������������������������������������"


    Yin Luoyue and Tian Xiao both let out fierce battle cries, united against amon enemy. However, the Witch Tribe member at the ck Immortal level was too powerful; they couldn''t get close or inflict any damage.


    Zhong Shan stood with his hands behind his back, observing. But was he really just observing?


    As Yin Luoyue charged, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted and turned green. His eerie gaze locked onto the Witch Tribe member.


    With the opening of the Samsara Eyes, yin and yang were reversed!


    A powerful force that could shake souls emanated from Zhong Shan''s eyes, directly targeting the Witch Tribe member.


    The Witch Tribe member''s sinisterugh abruptly ceased as the hairs on his body stood on end when Zhong Shan''s Samsara Eyes activated. A massive suction force pulled at him.


    The moment the Witch Tribe member rxed slightly, Yin Luoyue and Tian Xiao''s weapons advanced another half-foot.


    "Who are you?" the Witch Tribe member demanded fiercely.


    Zhong Shan was equally astonished. The opening of the Samsara Eyes and the reversal of yin and yang had only a minor effect on the Witch Tribe member?


    Facing this powerful foe, Zhong Shan realized that they needed to act quickly to eliminate him.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes glowed intensely green.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The entire dark world shook violently as if on the verge of copse.


    "What are you doing?" the Witch Tribe member shouted in horror.


    Not only the Witch Tribe member but also Yin Luoyue and Tian Xiao felt a strange atmosphere, though they couldn''t turn to look, focusing entirely on the Witch Tribe member.


    Before Zhong Shan, endless ck energy gathered. From this darkness, a green dot emerged, growingrger until a massive green portal appeared, as if leading to another world.


    The portal emitted an eerie green light, and deep within, it shimmered with myriad colors. Violent astral winds danced inside, creating a suffocating pressure.


    Yin Luoyue and Tian Xiao were filled with strange fear but couldn''t look back, knowing that losing focus meant death.


    The portal was incredibly bizarre.


    The Witch Tribe member let out a scream of terror: "No, how is this possible?"


    His scream confirmed Yin Luoyue''s suspicion��Zhong Shan possessed an uncanny and powerful strength.


    The portal of reincarnation opened!


    The powerful Myriad Shadows Heaven Scripture could forcibly open a path to reincarnation.


    The portal not only exerted a suction force but also had a destructive power. This force shattered the Witch Tribe member''s hat.


    With the hat gone, a hideous face of skin and bones, with sparse hair and dark skin, was revealed. The Witch Tribe member''s appearance was so grotesque it sent chills down one''s spine.


    Despite his terror, the Witch Tribe member''s eyes were filled with fierce anger as he stared at the portal before Zhong Shan.


    "Reincarnation? A portal of reincarnation? Are you a disciple of the Reincarnation Saint?" the Witch Tribe member screamed.


    The Reincarnation Saint? Zhong Shan had no idea who that was, but it didn''t affect his resolve to kill the Witch Tribe member.


    "Yin-Yang Reversal, Samsara Annihtion!"

 Chapter 638: Six Cycles of Reincarnation

    <h4>Chapter 638: Six Cycles of Reincarnation</h4>


    "Yin and Yang revolve, the cycle of reincarnation destroys the world!" Zhong Shan''s voice was cold andmanding.


    Suddenly, the reincarnation passage emitted a powerful green light, and the interior of the passage began to spin like a vortex, absorbing everything in its path.


    The force of the reincarnation passage was so intense that even without directly targeting Yin Luo Ri and Tian Xiao, both of them felt an overwhelming soul-capturing power. The terror was palpable; even though they were both strong cultivators at the Heavenly Extreme Realm, they felt an inexplicable panic, as if the scythe of death hovered over their necks, sending chills through their entire bodies.


    If the residual effects were so strong, what would it be like for the Wu n directly facing the passage?


    The Wu n''s eyes widened in horror, their bodies flickering with blue light. One could see the blue soul surging within, as if it could burst out at any moment. However, a strange ck aura seemed to lock the soul within the Wu n''s body.


    With eyes filled with fierce determination, the Wu n red at Zhong Shan.


    "What a formidable reincarnation passage. If it weren''t for the secret technique bestowed upon me by the ancestors, I might have perished here today," the Wu n member said coldly.


    "I don''t care what your connection with the Sage of Reincarnation is; today, you must die!" The Wu n''s voice grew colder and more menacing.


    Not far away, a few drops of cold sweat appeared on Zhong Shan''s forehead. Was the Wu n truly this formidable?


    "Ha---"


    With a loud roar, the Wu n''s eyes bulged, and veins popped out on their forehead.


    As the roar echoed, the Wu n''s body suddenly began to swell. In an eerie expansion, a powerful aura burst forth, blowing away the fainted strong cultivators nearby, sending them flying far into the distance.


    "Puh!"


    "Puh!"


    Under the immense pressure of this powerful aura, Yin Luo Ri and Tian Xiao both spat out a mouthful of blood.


    The Wu n was overwhelmingly powerful.


    Their body swelled, emitting a powerful force, stabilizing the once shaky dark world. The previously emaciated body now appeared muscr, transforming the once withered figure into a robust giant in an instant.


    Zhong Shan watched in astonishment. Although the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering Technique could also cause swelling, it was not to this exaggerated extent. This transformation was at least four or five times more robust than before.


    Under the shroud of the ck aura, the reincarnation passage was unable to pull out the Wu n''s soul.


    Zhong Shan squinted his eyes. If he couldn''t extract the soul, he would crush the Wu n, shattering them to pieces like the brain-eating beasts of the past.


    But the Wu n was faster. The frenzied expansion had greatly increased their strength. With a shake, a massive force sted Yin Luo Ri and Tian Xiao away.


    Yin Luo Ri''s spear and Tian Xiao''s Life Staff were suddenly snapped in two. The spear could be disregarded for now, but Tian Xiao''s staff was an immortal artifact, yet it broke so easily?


    With the Life Staff broken, it immediately lost its luster.


    The two Heavenly Extreme cultivators were helpless against the transformed Wu n, being sted away and severely injured.


    As they flew out, coughing up blood, they saw what stood before Zhong Shan��a giant reincarnation passage, a terrifying passage that made their bodies shiver with just a nce.


    But even more shocking was the Wu n''s immense power.


    The Wu n charged towards the reincarnation passage.


    Chapter 638: Six Cycles of Reincarnation


    With the staff in hand, the Wu n member fiercely struck towards the reincarnation passage.


    The terrifying staff instantly emitted an extremely powerful aura, crashing into the passage with what seemed like the force of the heavens.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan instinctively knew something was wrong, sensing an imminent disaster.


    Sure enough, the staff collided with the reincarnation passage.


    "Boom��"


    A powerful explosion resonated, shaking the entire space. Countless strong cultivators lying unconscious on the ground spewed fresh blood from their mouths.


    If the unconscious ones were affected this badly, what about Yin Luo Ri and Tian Xiao?


    The super loud crash was too much even for the strong Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivators. Already heavily injured, they both fainted.


    But just before losing consciousness, they caught a final glimpse of the scene.


    The eerie ck staff had punctured the reincarnation passage, creating huge cracks on its surface. The staff shattered the passage with a single strike.


    Carrying this sense of incredibility, the two Heavenly Extreme cultivators fainted.


    The transformed Wu n member was incredibly powerful. After shattering the reincarnation passage, the powerful staff didn''t stop and continued to charge towards Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes widened in disbelief. How could this be? How could the reincarnation passage be shattered? Even if he had just touched the surface of its mysteries, it was impossible for a Celestial Immortal to break it.


    But it was toote. The ck staff moved too fast and in an instant, pierced through Zhong Shan''s chest.


    "Boom!"


    The staff went right through him.


    The Wu n member revealed a vicious smile, and with a shake of the hand, the reincarnation passage copsed, as if it had never existed.


    "Why... why is it like this!" Zhong Shan, blood pouring from his mouth, stared at the staff in his chest in disbelief.


    Seeing that Zhong Shan had lost his fighting ability, the Wu n member smiled in satisfaction.


    "Why is it like this? I didn''t expect it either. A mere small world has someone like you? Capable of opening the reincarnation passage? You''re no simple figure. But your realm is too low. An Emperor Extreme Realm cultivator trying to maintain the reincarnation passage? If you were at the Heavenly Extreme Realm, I''d be the one dead today. But you don''t have that chance. This staff of mine has been refined for 18,000 years; it ensures your soul will scatter and never reincarnate!" The Wu n memberughed maniacally.


    A staff through the heart, it was hopeless, at least in the Wu n member''s eyes. No human could survive, especially not a member of the human race.


    However, at that moment, Zhong Shan showed no fear. Instead, he wore a strange smile.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s eerie smile, the Wu n member felt an instinctive unease.


    "Boom��"


    Zhong Shan''s body suddenly exploded into countless ck fragments, which then dissipated into the air, vanishingpletely.


    The bizarre scene startled the Wu n member, who quickly retracted his staff and guarded himself, sweat forming on his forehead. His eyes kept scanning the area where Zhong Shan''s fragments had vanished.


    "Are you looking for me?" A strange voice suddenly sounded from behind the Wu n member.


    It was Zhong Shan!


    The Wu n member quickly turned around, looking ahead in shock.


    It was Zhong Shan, indeed, but the Zhong Shan before him showed no signs of injury, not even a scratch.


    "How are you unharmed? That''s impossible! How can you be perfectly fine?" the Wu n member roared at Zhong Shan.


    The Wu n member was certain he had just killed Zhong Shan. But how was he now standing there, unscathed and showing no signs of injury? How had he managed this?


    "I thought the reincarnation passage would be sufficient in this realm. I never expected anyone to force me to use this technique. It seems that the powerhouses of the great world indeed possess unique strengths!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "What?"


    "I don''t care what tricks you still have. Today, you must die!" Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold, and his pupils changed to a bright green.


    "You? Just you?" The Wu n member yelled at Zhong Shan, his voice filled with disbelief.


    At that moment, the Wu n member''s heart was filled with a chilling fear, but he was also crazed with disbelief that Zhong Shan could harm him. How could it be? In this realm, no one could kill him.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan snorted coldly.


    "Yin and Yang revolve, the cycle of reincarnation destroys the world!"


    Suddenly, a chorus of voices echoed, making the Wu n member''s hair stand on end.


    A chorus, indeed. From six different directions��north, south, east, west, above, and below��six identical Zhong Shans appeared.


    All six Zhong Shans had green pupils and shouted in unison. Before each of them, a reincarnation passage appeared.


    Six reincarnation passages, appearing simultaneously, surrounded the Wu n member in the center.


    With a mighty roar from Zhong Shan, the six passages emitted billions of green lights, casting an eerie green glow over the dark world. The space itself shook violently as if it might shatter at any moment.


    "Combine��"


    As the six Zhong Shans shouted, the six reincarnation passages converged on the center, pressing in on the Wu n member.


    The Wu n member''s eyes filled with horror. He never expected things to turn out this way. How could it be? How had Zhong Shan suddenly be six? Was it an external incarnation? But even so, how could he produce six reincarnation passages? How was this possible?


    "No��"


    The Wu n member let out a frenzied roar, striking a reincarnation passage with his staff.


    "Boom��"


    The passage shattered under the impact of the staff,pletely breaking apart just like before.


    But the remaining five passages wouldn''t let him escape. In an instant, they merged into one, enveloping him in the reincarnation passage.


    "All six were real? Impossible! No��"


    With a mournful roar, the entire dark world suddenly copsed.


    Everyone returned to the external world they had been in before. The Wu n member was dead, utterly andpletely.


    Five of the six Zhong Shans vanished, leaving only one standing. The reincarnation passages dissipated, and the Wu n member was gone, leaving no trace behind.


    Zhong Shan, thest one standing, exhaled deeply, appearing extremely fatigued.


    He reached out to catch the staff left behind by the deceased Wu n member and looked around.


    Countless strong cultivators stilly unconscious on the ground, but they would soon wake up. In the distance, near the edge of a massive ck hole, Zhong Shan could vaguely see the phantom of a giant iron book. The space around it was continuously shattering, a clear sign of the battle between Nangong Sheng and two other Wu n members.


    Zhong Shan was exhausted and had no desire to stay any longer. He nced at Yin Luo Ri but didn''t bother with him. After all, his rtionship with Yin Luo Ri was merely superficial. They would wake up soon, and their fate would be in their own hands. With a flicker, Zhong Shan shot towards the outskirts of the area.

 Chapter 639: The Plot of the Ageless Realm

    <h4>Chapter 639: The Plot of the Ageless Realm</h4>


    Zhong Shan had no intention of involving himself further in Nangong Sheng''s battle with the two other Wu n members. The fight with just one Wu n member had already drained him, and opening the reincarnation passage consumed an immense amount of energy.


    Fortunately, the reincarnation passages Zhong Shan opened were notrge, but he had still opened seven of them. The cumtive effort had reached a tipping point,parable to thest time he dealt with the brain-eating beasts. Although he wasn''t about to faint, he was thoroughly exhausted both physically and mentally.


    Not calling out to Yin Luo Ri was also because Zhong Shan was unsure of Yin Luo Ri''s current intentions. After all, one should never fully trust someone they''ve just met; confiding in them and entrusting one''s life to them was out of the question.


    Zhong Shan distanced himself from the battlefield and rushed in the direction where Gu Qianyou and her party had gone.


    Blood rain continued to fall from the sky, and the heavens were dark and somber. Zhong Shan transformed into a shadow, swiftly traversing the vast distance on the ground. At this moment, another shadow rushed towards him from a distance.


    It was one of Zhong Shan''s shadow clones.


    The two Zhong Shans stood facing each other, and the shadow clone took out a small g.


    The five-element g, the Yellow g of the Center! Zhong Shan ced it alongside the Wu n member''s staff. Neither could be stored in a spatial ring, but Zhong Shan''s shadow form was unique. As long as they were affixed to his body, even these two immortal-level treasures could be shadowed along with him.


    After securing the two treasures, Zhong Shan shot off again.


    Sure enough, it wasn''t long before Yin Luo Ri and Tian Xiao regained consciousness.


    The moment they woke, they vividly recalled the terrifying scene from before.


    The reincarnation passage? The staff that destroyed the reincarnation passage?


    They looked around and saw countless unconscious figures lying all around.


    What had just happened?


    Was Zhong Shan dead? Had he been killed by that Wu n member? No, if Zhong Shan were dead, they wouldn''t have survived either. What had happened? Had Zhong Shan killed the Wu n member? Impossible, right?


    Had Zhong Shan perished alongside the Wu n member?


    Their hearts were full of questions. They exchanged nces, seeing confusion in each other''s eyes.


    In that brief moment, more and more people began to wake up.


    Seeing that they had been saved, everyone looked around with excitement. At the same time, they all noticed the ongoing battle between Nangong Sheng and the Wu n members in the distant sky.


    Everyone felt a chill of fear and quickly decided to leave. They had just narrowly escaped death and had no desire to risk their lives again.


    At this moment, a group of figures flew in from afar. It was the fifty people of the Great Yan Heavenly Dynasty. Upon seeing the numerous rescued individuals, a few quickly flew off to report to Xing Taidou.


    "Let''s go!" Tian Xiao didn''t hesitate and led the Tian Family disciples to retreat swiftly.


    Yin Luo Ri did the same. Watching the Tian Family disciples leave, he squinted his eyes and turned towards another direction. He intended to go to the Great Zhen Dynasty. He wanted to verify what Zhong Shan had said about the Great Zhen Dynasty, to confirm if Zhong Shan was truly alright.


    The strong cultivators from all directions quickly turned to leave. The current situation was beyond their reach. Both the Wu n members and Nangong Sheng were overwhelmingly powerful, capable of crushing them with a mere flick of their fingers. Staying here would only mean courting death.


    Faced with numerous strong cultivators, the dozens of people from the Great Yan Heavenly Dynasty didn''t dare to act rashly. They waited for Xing Taidou to return, who had gone after the five-element gs. Who knew how many he had retrieved? One of the gs had already fallen into Zhong Shan''s hands.


    In an instant, the area emptied as everyone left.


    In another valley, members of the Ageless Realm, including Nian Youyou, were present.


    Leading them was a purple-haired man. At this moment, the purple-haired man stood atop a high mountain, staring into the fog-filled distance with a cold smile.


    Nian Youyou approached, carrying the ancestral divine beast that resembled a fluffy ball on her shoulder.


    "Junior Sister, why have youe to find me today?" The purple-haired man turned to Nian Youyou, a faintly wicked smile ying on his lips.


    "Senior Brother, can you show me the group of people you''re nning to deal with?" Nian Youyou asked.


    "Of course, since Junior Sister has asked, how could I refuse?" the purple-haired man replied with a smile.


    With a wave of his hand, he used a spell to conjure up the images of a group of people.


    Seeing the group, Nian Youyou''s pupils constricted, a look of extreme disbelief shing in her eyes. This... how could this be?


    The images were of Gu Qianyou, Xianxian, Mr. Corpse, Old Drunkard, and others. While Nian Youyou couldn''t recognize all of them, she was more than familiar with Gu Qianyou.


    During the time when the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail devoured heaven and earth, Nian Youyou had been by Zhong Shan''s side, deliberatelypeting with Gu Qianyou for his favor. They had engaged in many verbal sparring matches, bing very familiar with each other.


    This...?


    Nian Youyou stared in astonishment. How did Gu Qianyou end up in the underworld? During the time of the Ancient Divine Opening of Heaven and Earth? No,ter, during the Great Zhen Dynasty''s conquest of the Chaos Lands, Gu Qianyou had already be Zhong Shan''s empress. It couldn''t have been then.


    But if not then, how did she enter the underworld? That wasn''t the main issue. The main issue was that if Gu Qianyou was here, then what about Zhong Shan? Did Zhong Shan abandon his foundations in the mortal realm ande down too?


    Could Zhong Shan havee to the underworld?


    A wave of panic shed through Nian Youyou''s eyes. She hade to the underworld to escape Zhong Shan, not wanting to see him again. But why did Zhong Shan keep haunting her mind all these years? Why couldn''t she shake him off?


    Has hee? Panic flickered in Nian Youyou''s eyes.


    This flicker of panic did not escape the purple-haired man''s notice.


    "Junior Sister, what''s wrong?" he asked.


    Hearing his call, Nian Youyou steadied her emotions, the earlier panic fading away.


    Staring at the conjured image of Gu Qianyou, Nian Youyou looked closely before saying, "Senior Brother, I have some advice for you!"


    "Oh? Advice? What made you suddenly want to give me advice?" The purple-haired man looked surprised.


    "Do you know who they are?" Nian Youyou asked.


    "I don''t. What of it?"


    "I advise you not to provoke them!" Nian Youyou said.


    "Not provoke them? Ridiculous. Why shouldn''t I provoke them? In this small world, is there anyone our Ageless Realm cannot provoke?" The purple-haired man dismissed her concern.


    "At the very least, you need to let that woman go!" Nian Youyou pointed to Gu Qianyou''s image.


    "Her? Hahaha, if it were someone else, I might have given Junior Sister this favor. But not her!" The purple-haired man shook his head.


    "Why not?" Nian Youyou frowned.


    "Because she, like you, possesses the Nine Cauldron Body, specifically the Xun Cauldron. If it weren''t for this feng shui formation, I wouldn''t have discovered it. Knowing her constitution, I can''t let her go. One of our elders in the Wind Sect of the Ageless Realm has been searching for the Xun Cauldron for a long time!" The purple-haired man revealed a wicked smile.


    Nian Youyou''s frown deepened. "You don''t understand her, nor do you understand the people behind her. If you refuse to release them, you may regret it!"


    "Regret? I''ve never known what regret is!" The purple-haired man retorted stubbornly.


    "The realm lord''s grand n is about tomence. Do you really want to jeopardize it by capturing these people at such a critical moment?" Nian Youyou tried to persuade him further.


    "Junior Sister, stop trying to persuade me. My mind is made up. The realm lord''s n hasn''t started yet. In the meantime, I have enough time to capture them. Besides, I''m in charge this time. If anything goes wrong, I''ll take responsibility. You don''t need to worry." The purple-haired man remained obstinate.


    "Let''s hope you won''t regret it, Senior Brother!" Nian Youyou said onest time before turning to leave.


    Watching Nian Youyou depart with the ancestral divine beast, the purple-haired man''s eyes narrowed, his expression darkening slightly.


    In the dense fog before the purple-haired man were Gu Qianyou and her group.


    "This is a bad omen, a really bad omen! We are surrounded by danger from all sides. Someone is specifically targeting us. We''re doomed!" Old Drunkard said, his face full of worry.


    "Enough, stop making noise!" Gu Qianyou frowned.


    "Shut up! It''s just a small fog array. Haven''t we dealt with worse? What''s there to be so rmed about?" Xianxian said disdainfully.


    At this moment, Mr. Corpse approached from a distance.


    "Reporting to the Empress, fifty li to the east there is an abandoned city," Mr. Corpse said in a deep voice.


    "Good! Move to the abandoned city immediately!" Gu Qianyou nodded.


    "Yes!" everyone responded promptly.


    "Empress, can you discern what kind of formation this is?" Mr. Corpse asked with a frown.


    "This is a feng shui formation. I''ve studied some with Old Tian, and the y Bodhisattva has given me some texts. Even if we can''t break this feng shui formation, we can certainly defend ourselves within it. Once His Majesty arrives, everything will be resolved!" Gu Qianyou said with unwavering confidence.


    "Yes!" everyone nodded.


    Quickly, they reached the so-called abandoned city discovered by Mr. Corpse. In this foggy ce, it was impossible to distinguish directions, and even their spiritual senses couldn''t prate far, simr to the feng shui formation set up by the y Bodhisattva long ago. Zhong Shan had broken that formation with wild wolves, but there were no such wolves here. Discovering this abandoned city was thanks to Mr. Corpse''s zombies, who found it while tunneling underground.


    The abandoned city was very dpidated and small, only having been a small settlement for mortals.


    "Now I will transform this small city to gather wind and concentrate energy, dispelling the interference of the external fog. I need your assistance to alter theyout of the city''s buildings and pathways!" Gu Qianyou said to everyone.


    "At yourmand, Empress!" everyone responded.


    Gu Qianyou then assigned various unusual tasks to the wolf generals and the wolf king. Some ces required buildings to be torn down, while others needed new paths to be created.


    With so many strong individuals, the city''syout was transformed in no time. The city now had nine concentric circr roads, with eighteen different routes extending from the center in all directions.


    "Activate the formation��" Gu Qianyoumanded.


    At hermand, eighteen wolf generals ced a formation g into the ground at each of the eighteen positions.


    "Humm��"


    The formation gs trembled slightly before vanishing, and the wolf generals suddenly felt the newly altered city begin to spin slowly. Yet, they themselves hadn''t moved. The city seemed to spin quickly, yet it also seemed stationary, causing a dizzying effect.


    However, the fog within the city gradually disappeared, reducing more and more until all the fog was expelled outside, surrounding but not prating the city.


    Using a feng shui formation to counter a feng shui formation, Gu Qianyou secured a safe haven for her group.

 Chapter 640: Master Shenxiu

    <h4>Chapter 640: Master Shenxiu</h4>


    "Qianyou, it''s done! We''re safe!" Xianxian eximed excitedly.


    "No, this isn''t safety. This is merely a foothold," Gu Qianyou replied, frowning.


    "Indeed, the ominous signs I sense are not over; they even seem to be intensifying," Old Drunkard said, his face filled with concern.


    "Empress, what should we do next?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "We need to buy time until His Majesty arrives," Gu Qianyou said gravely.


    "Can His Majesty get here? This feng shui formation confuses the mind. Without a feng shui master, it''s impossible to navigate, not even by flying. How will His Majesty enter?" Old Drunkard asked worriedly.


    "Rest assured, there is no formation in the world that can trap His Majesty. We just need to buy time," Gu Qianyou said firmly.


    "Yes!" everyone responded.


    Although Old Drunkard was still somewhat skeptical, he nodded in agreement.


    "Mr. Corpse, can you still use your ability to manipte skeletons?" Gu Qianyou asked.


    "Yes!" Mr. Corpse replied directly.


    "Good. Since you can, then summon as many skeletons as you can from the ground outside the city. The more, the better. I''ll give you a diagram, and you''ll arrange them into a ''Skeleton Feng Shui Defense Formation,''" Gu Qianyou said.


    "Understood!" Mr. Corpse responded promptly.


    Mr. Corpse flew to the city tower, taking out a bell. From his throat came eerie notes that made everyone''s hair stand on end; the sound was too strange.


    As Mr. Corpse began his incantations, the purple-haired man from the Ageless Realm noticed the unusual activity. He realized there was resistance within the formation.


    "Interesting! So they understand feng shui as well!" the purple-haired man sneered.


    He extended his hand, and a ball of pitch-ck energy emerged from his palm, shooting into the thick white fog ahead.


    Suddenly, the ck energy transformed into countless bats. With blood-red eyes and a fierce cry, they flew into the depths of the formation. In addition to these bats, countless more emerged from all sides of the formation, swarming towards the small city where Gu Qianyou''s group was. The bats flew in with eerie cries, casting an ominous presence.


    On the city tower, Mr. Corpse was summoning an endless number of skeletons.


    These skeletons were not from the Skeleton n, or rather, they were the most primitive form of the Skeleton n, entirely mindless, crawling out of the ground one by one.


    The earth churned, and skeletal hands emerged, creating a horrifying sight. More and more skeletons appeared.


    In no time, the area around the city tower was filled with countless skeletons, densely packed and exuding a chilling atmosphere.


    Under Gu Qianyou''s direction, the skeletons arranged themselves into a strange formation around the small city.


    "Screech��"


    A piercing sound echoed from afar, and suddenly, a powerful shockwave struck some of the outer skeletons.


    "Crack��"


    Dozens of skeletons were instantly shattered into dust.


    "This is bad! So many bats!" Xianxian eximed.


    "Mr. Corpse, quickly!" Gu Qianyou shouted.


    "Yes!" Mr. Corpse responded immediately.


    The skeletons moved quickly into formation. As the bats approached, the number of skeletons shattered by their cries increased. By the time a tenth of the skeletons had been destroyed, the formation was finallypleted.


    "Activate the formation��"


    Gu Qianyou called out as she flipped her hand, summoning four ancient peach wood swords. She threw them into the air, and they immediately nted themselves at the four corners of the small city, sending waves of peach wood energy into the ground.


    "Humm��"


    Countless skeletons suddenly trembled, releasing thick ck mists��death energy of the highest concentration.


    As the death energy surged upwards, it enveloped the entire small city, blocking out the sky and repelling the swarming bats. The bats, unable to prate the barrier, were left fluttering helplessly outside.


    Above the white mist feng shui formation, a massive region of ck fog appeared. The endless bats that flew into the ck fog instantly fell to the ground, rapidly decaying.


    The purple-haired man''s face turned ashen with rage.


    "Someone, send half of you into the formation and follow mymands!" he barked at the Ageless Realm disciples behind him.


    "Yes, sir!"


    Thus began a stalemate in the feng shui battle.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan moved at top speed, shadow-stepping through the markings left by Gu Qianyou. He frowned at the sight of the enormous foggy area ahead but didn''t hesitate and phased into it.


    No formation, however intricate, could hinder his shadow body.


    In no time, Zhong Shan reached the small city.


    "Intruder! There''s an intruder!" Mr. Corpse suddenly shouted with a grim tone.


    "What? An intruder?" Old Drunkard eximed.


    "Too fast, it''s too fast, he''s here already!" Mr. Corpse''s face was filled with terror.


    "Protect the Empress!" Old Drunkard yelled.


    "It''s me!" Zhong Shan''s voice cut through the panic.


    Everyone froze upon hearing Zhong Shan''s voice.


    Zhong Shan phased into a room and opened the door, stepping out.


    Old Drunkard''s jaw dropped in astonishment. "Your Majesty, how did you get here?"


    His eyes were wide with disbelief. How could it be? How did His Majesty suddenly appear in this room?


    "Are you alright?" Gu Qianyou immediately rushed to support Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, your face is so pale!" Xianxian eximed worriedly.


    Zhong Shan nodded. "I''m heavily depleted. I need to rest immediately. Guard me while I recover!"


    "But what about the outside?" Old Drunkard cried out in rm.


    They had waited so long for Zhong Shan to arrive, but now that he was here, he nned to go into seclusion. What about the feng shui formation?


    "Qianyou,e inside with me! The rest of you, wait outside!" Zhong Shanmanded, leading Gu Qianyou into the best room.


    "How are you feeling?" Gu Qianyou asked, her worry evident.


    "Don''t worry, I just need some rest to recover. My mental energy was greatly depleted earlier," Zhong Shan reassured her.


    "Oh!" Gu Qianyou''s expression softened.


    "I''ve already consulted with the y Bodhisattva about this feng shui formation. He''s working on a solution," Zhong Shan said.


    "The y Bodhisattva hase up with something!" Zhong Shan added.


    Evidently, the y Bodhisattva in the mortal realm had quickly found a solution.


    "The y Bodhisattva asked me to check with you, have you mastered the ''Nine-Stage Binding Formation''?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I''ve learned it, but I''m not very proficient," Gu Qianyou replied.


    "Even if you''re not proficient, it doesn''t matter. The y Bodhisattva suggested using this formation to entangle the opponent''s feng shui formation, making it immobile. Though it will be tough for you, it should hold for four to five days. By then, I will have recovered, and no formation will be able to stop us," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright! Since the y Bodhisattva said it''s possible, I''ll set up the ''Nine-Stage Binding Formation'' right away," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    "During my recovery, unless it''s a matter of life and death, no one should disturb me. Have Xianxian guard the area," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood!" Gu Qianyou nodded again and left the room. Zhong Shan immediatelyy down and fell into a deep sleep.


    With guidance from the y Bodhisattva, Gu Qianyou adjusted the formation. The initially small area of ck qi suddenly expanded, spreading in all directions. In a short time, the once vast area of white fog was infiltrated by threads of ck qi, resembling numerous veins stretching outwards.


    On the mountain peak, the purple-haired man began to sweat more profusely.


    "How can this be? The formation is no longer fully under my control! All of you, get inside the formation and follow my lead!" the purple-haired manmanded his disciples.


    "Yes, sir!"


    The remaining Ageless Realm disciples rushed into the formation, ready to follow the purple-haired man''s orders.


    "Senior Brother, what''s going on? Why is everyone entering the formation?" Nian Youyou asked, puzzled.


    "Something''s wrong, something''s very wrong!" the purple-haired man''s expression grew increasingly grim.


    "What is it?"


    "Although I can still control the formation, it''s bing more and more difficult. The opponent''s feng shui formation feels like a quagmire, ensnaring mine. I can''t even dismantle my formation without risking bacsh!" the purple-haired man said anxiously.


    "So, you''re trapped in this formation and can''t extricate yourself?" Nian Youyou asked with a hint of amusement.


    "Don''t be ridiculous. I''m not deeply versed in feng shui techniques, so I didn''t foresee this happening," the purple-haired man replied with a bitter smile.


    "You didn''t foresee this happening? Hmph, Senior Brother, the Realm Lord''s n could start at any moment. Don''t mess it up and be the Ageless Realm''s scapegoat," Nian Youyou warned with a cold smile.


    Annoyed by Nian Youyou''s sarcasm, the purple-haired man retorted, "You needn''t worry about that. Although I can''t deal with them immediately, their feng shui formation''s power is dwindling. It won''t be long before it''spletely exhausted."


    "Not long? I hope so," Nian Youyou replied dismissively, turning to leave.


    In the distant south of the Floating Blood Sea, atop a mountain peak, Ye Qingcheng, who had originally left, reappeared.


    Beside Ye Qingcheng stood a group from the Ageless Realm, mostly gathered at the foot of the mountain, with only a dozen people on the peak. Standing next to Ye Qingcheng was a man in a purple robe.


    The man had no eyebrows and looked very robust, but his purple robe added an air of mystery.


    "Master Shenxiu, the people from the great world and Nangong Sheng have already fought each other to a standstill. Should we begin?" Ye Qingcheng asked the purple-robed man.


    Shenxiu, as per Old Tian''s teachings, was a feng shui master from the ''God'' branch among the five branches of feng shui��Heaven, Earth, Man, God, and Ghost.


    "With the dragon trapped in the urn, the sixty-four positions have been secured. Even if they weren''t weakened from fighting, we could trap them. Given the current situation, it''s time. Since you''re eager, let''s begin," Shenxiu nodded.


    "It''s not impatience, but rather caution against unforeseen events. They are immortals, after all, and unexpected things can happen. Acting sooner is better than letting them escape back to the great world, which would be a significant loss," Ye Qingcheng exined.


    "Agreed," Shenxiu nodded.


    "Begin!" Ye Qingcheng ordered the disciples behind him.


    "Yes, sir!" the disciples of the Ageless Realm responded in unison.

 Chapter 641: Concealing Heaven鈥檚 Will, Defying Transformation

    <h4>Chapter 641: Concealing Heaven��s Will, Defying Transformation</h4>


    Atop the mountain peak, Shenxiu gave hismand, and the disciples quickly began their preparations.


    Shenxiu held a piece of uncut jade, gazing at the vastnd before him and the ever-falling blood rain.


    "Master Shenxiu, is the Dragon-Trapping Urn truly as powerful as the rumors say?" Ye Qingcheng asked.


    "Of course. With so many powerhouses drawn in, what is there to worry about? When the dragons roar to the heavens, the urn will host a spectacr show!" Shenxiu replied with a confident smile.


    "With so many powerhouses, will even the Heavenly Extreme Realm be affected?" Ye Qingcheng asked again.


    "Indeed. Within the eight Heavenly Extreme Realms, there won''t be an issue. And besides, are there more than eight inside?" Shenxiu chuckled.


    "Impossible!" Ye Qingcheng confirmed.


    "Then rest assured, this feng shui formation is one of the strongest of my Shenxiu lineage. As long as the Ageless Realm disciples perform without error, we will certainly capture Nangong Sheng and the immortals from the great world!" Shenxiu dered with utmost certainty.


    "There will be no issues!" Ye Qingcheng stated firmly.


    "However, this operation will cost your Ageless Realm dearly," Shenxiu shook his head.


    "Cost? Haha, Master Shenxiu need not worry. The Ageless Realm can afford these expenses. As long as we obtain what we desire in the end, these costs are nothing," Ye Qingchengughed.


    "Hmm," Shenxiu nodded.


    At that moment, a yellow light shot up in front of Ye Qingcheng and the others, signaling the formal activation of the Dragon-Trapping Urn.


    The yellow light pierced the sky, reaching into the blood-red clouds above, anchoring both heaven and earth. The vast yellow light wasn''t just ordinary light; within moments, it began to solidify, taking on a ceramic-like sheen, resembling a towering ceramic pir.


    But it didn''t stop there. The ceramic pir started to elongate horizontally, forming an ever-widening wall that reached the heavens. It continued to stretch along a specific trajectory, extending wider and wider, like a city wall, but towering thousands of times higher.


    As the colossal wall grew, the ground beneath it began to turn ceramic, spreading rapidly towards the Floating Blood Sea.


    This wasn''t happening in just one ce. Simr changes urred in all prepared positions, with Ye Qingcheng''s location being just one. When the towering walls connected, it was within Shenxiu''s calctions.


    More yellow beams shot skyward, quickly transforming into wall sections.


    With each additional wall, a massive ''urn'' epassing the heavens and the earth gradually took shape.


    As the formation nearedpletion, the walls grew, connecting seamlessly. The colossal ''urn'' was forming, its scale staggering even to the Ageless Realm disciples who were implementing it.


    Countless powerhouses attempting to flee witnessed this astounding scene. They paused, looking at the towering walls in the distance, wondering what was happening.


    "Senior Brother, what''s going on?" one cultivator asked another.


    "Master, the ground in the distance is changing color and advancing towards us. What''s happening?"


    Back in the small city, Gu Qianyou threw four ancient peach wood swords into the ground at the four corners, channeling energy into the earth.


    "Humm��"


    The skeletons trembled as dense death energy surged upward, enveloping the city and repelling the invading bats. The bats fell to the ground, decaying rapidly upon contact with the ck fog.


    "We''re not safe yet," Gu Qianyou said, frowning. "The ominous signs persist and may even intensify."


    "Empress, what should we do next?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "We must buy time until His Majesty arrives," Gu Qianyou replied gravely.


    "Can His Majesty get here? This formation confuses the mind and hinders movement. How will His Majesty enter?" Old Drunkard asked worriedly.


    "Trust in His Majesty. No formation can trap him. We just need to hold out," Gu Qianyou assured them.


    "Yes!" the group responded.


    "Mr. Corpse, can you still manipte skeletons?" Gu Qianyou asked.


    "Yes," he replied.


    "Good. Summon as many skeletons as possible and form a ''Skeleton Feng Shui Defense Formation'' around the city," Gu Qianyou instructed.


    "Understood," Mr. Corpse responded, flying to the city tower to begin his incantations.


    Outside, the purple-haired man noticed the change andmanded his disciples, "Everyone, enter the formation and follow my lead!"


    "Yes, sir!"


    Inside the city, Zhong Shan phased in and opened a door, stepping out.


    Old Drunkard stared in disbelief. "Your Majesty, how did you get here?"


    "Are you alright?" Gu Qianyou rushed to support Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, you look so pale!" Xianxian eximed.


    "I''m heavily depleted. I need to rest immediately. Guard me while I recover," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "But what about the outside?" Old Drunkard cried out.


    "Qianyou,e inside with me. The rest of you, wait outside," Zhong Shanmanded, leading Gu Qianyou into a room.


    "How are you feeling?" she asked.


    "Don''t worry, I just need rest. My mental energy was greatly depleted," Zhong Shan reassured her.


    "Oh," Gu Qianyou''s expression softened.


    "I''ve consulted the y Bodhisattva. He''s working on a solution for this formation," Zhong Shan said.


    "The y Bodhisattva suggested the ''Nine-Stage Binding Formation.'' Are you familiar with it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I''ve learned it, but I''m not very proficient," Gu Qianyou replied.


    "Even if you''re not proficient, it doesn''t matter. The y Bodhisattva suggested using this formation to entangle the opponent''s feng shui formation, making it immobile. Though it will be tough for you, it should hold for four to five days. By then, I will have recovered, and no formation will be able to stop us," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright! Since the y Bodhisattva said it''s possible, I''ll set up the ''Nine-Stage Binding Formation'' right away," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    "During my recovery, unless it''s a matter of life and death, no one should disturb me. Have Xianxian guard the area," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood," Gu Qianyou nodded and went outside to begin the formation setup.


    "Martial Uncle, should we find a ce to wait and see?"


    "Yes, let''s move farther away and observe. It seems another powerful force is arriving!"


    The sudden and dramatic changes shook the hearts of many cultivators, quelling their initial impulse to flee. They now sought safe ces to carefully observe the unfolding events.


    On the road, Tian Xiao led a group of Tian Family disciples as they fled, but his serious injuries,bined with the mixed capabilities of the disciples, slowed their pace significantly.


    "Young Master, what''s happening ahead?" a Tian Family disciple asked.


    "A feng shui formation? What kind of feng shui formation is this?" Tian Xiao''s expression was puzzled.


    "Young Master, should we take a look? There must be powerful cultivators arriving. We can observe from a distance!"


    "No, we must leave immediately. Feng shui formations are unpredictable and mysterious. No one knows what they signify. We need to leave quickly!" Tian Xiao ordered.


    "Yes!" the group responded promptly.


    While Tian Xiao chose to escape, Yin Luo Ri stopped in confusion, seeking a safe ce to observe the sudden changes in the world.


    A towering wall reaching the heavens? What is going on?


    The high walls continued to extend in all directions. When they reached the position of ''Daguo,'' the purple-haired man was furiously controlling his feng shui formation, struggling against Gu Qianyou''s ''Nine-Stage Binding Formation.''


    He had sent everyone into the formation, hoping for a quick resolution, but the more he rushed, the deeper he became entangled, making it harder to withdraw.


    At this moment, the purple-haired man regretted his actions. He regretted confronting this stubborn group that now left him stuck. With the Realm Lord''s grand n imminent, how could he exin this mess? In hindsight, he should have sent a few junior disciples to follow their whereabouts and dealt with them after the main event.


    Now, the purple-haired man was agitated. He couldn''t withdraw without suffering bacsh, which could cost him his life.


    "Senior Brother, the Realm Lord''s signal has arrived. The major positions are ready. Can we start?" Nian Youyou suddenly approached and asked.


    The purple-haired man, fully engrossed in battling Gu Qianyou''s feng shui formation, was jolted by her words. He looked up to see a distant yellow light shooting into the sky, forming a massive wall that was quickly extending.


    Seeing this, the purple-haired man''s jaw dropped. It had already begun?


    Looking back at the feng shui formation trapping him, the purple-haired man felt faint. The Realm Lord entrusted him with this critical task because of hispetence, yet all other positions were fine except his. Why did this happen?


    The Ageless Realm had poured immense resources and efforts into this. If the n failed, he would be the eternal scapegoat.


    "Senior Brother, you must dismantle the formation. For the sake of a Xun Ding body, are you really willing to offend the Realm Lord? Have you forgotten your purpose here?" Nian Youyou scolded.


    The purple-haired man felt like crying. Did she think he wanted this?


    Gradually, the high walls from both sides extended towards him. Without sensing a wall from his position, the two walls continued to grow. When they were a hundred li from him, they stopped, unable to extend further. This was their limit.


    Thus, a colossal urn connecting heaven and earth was born, though it had a small, almost unnoticeable w��a gap in its structure. Although the hundred-li gap was significant, it was negligiblepared to the urn''s overall diameter. The distant powerhouses couldn''t perceive this ''tiny gap''.


    The urn had a w, one that only the purple-haired man was acutely aware of. His eyes reflected a tragic determination. Meanwhile, Nian Youyou showed no sign of anxiety but instead wore a satisfied smile.


    Inside the feng shui formation, Gu Qianyou''s arrangement had taken effect, allowing Mr. Corpse''s zombies to explore the outside world. The zombies ryed their sightings back, and the group was shocked by what they saw.


    Before them, Mr. Corpse conjured an image of the view seen by his zombies: endless high walls rising up.


    "What is this?" everyone eximed in surprise.


    "I''m not sure, but something major is definitely happening," Mr. Corpse replied gravely.


    "I might have figured it out," Gu Qianyou said, her eyes narrowing.


    "Oh?" everyone looked at her expectantly.


    "When we arrived, we spected about who spread the news about the Earth Book and why they wanted to attract so many powerhouses. There was clearly a conspiracy at y. Now that the conspiracy is unfolding, it seems we''ve inadvertently caused a small w in their n," Gu Qianyou exined.


    "Hmm," everyone nodded in agreement.


    "Mr. Corpse, how far can your zombies travel?" Gu Qianyou asked.


    "I''m not sure!" Mr. Corpse shook his head.


    "Use your strongest zombie. Send it as far as possible and ry everything it sees back to us," Gu Qianyou ordered.


    "Yes!" Mr. Corpse responded promptly.


    His strongest zombie was, of course, the Buddha''s corpse he had excavated from the Pure Land.


    Under Mr. Corpse''s control, the zombie quickly traveled underground, sending back images of the distantndscape.


    Through these images, they could see some powerhouses hiding at the base of various mountains.


    By now, most of the ground had turned to ceramic, trapping all the powerhouses within this massive urn. As the powerhouses watched with heavy hearts, thin wisps of yellow smoke began to rise from the ground.


    The yellow smoke surged towards the countless powerhouses and creatures. Some cultivators didn''t pay attention, allowing the smoke to enter their bodies, while others quickly erected protective barriers. However, the smoke prated these barriers effortlessly, entering their bodies.


    Tian Xiao, leading a group of Tian Family disciples in their escape, suddenly felt a wisp of yellow smoke enter his body.


    "Not good, Transformation Smoke!" Tian Xiao shouted in rm.


    But it was toote. Behind him, a Tian Family disciple suddenly emitted a blinding yellow light. Waves of energy radiated from his body.


    "Roar��"


    A dragon''s roar echoed from the yellow light, sending chills down everyone''s spines.


    "Boom��"


    The yellow light burst apart, and the Tian Family disciple vanished, transforming into a hundred-zhang-long yellow dragon. The dragon''s eyes were hollow and lifeless. With a roar, it turned and flew rapidly towards the former Floating Blood Sea.


    A living person had transformed into a massive yellow dragon?


    Everyone was dumbfounded. What was happening? Who could exin this?


    The transformation didn''t stop with that one Tian Family disciple. Countless other powerhouses hiding in various ces also began to emit yellow light, turning into dragons under Shenxiu''s control.


    "The Dragon-Trapping Urn formation? It''s Shenxiu''s feng shui array!" Tian Xiao eximed.


    But it was toote. Nearly half of the Tian Family disciples were now glowing with yellow light, including Tian Xiao himself.


    In the urn, this strange scene yed out endlessly. Countless powerhouses, at least at the Nascent Soul stage, many in the Integration stage, numerous Emperor Extreme Realm cultivators, and even some Heavenly Extreme Realm experts, all began to transform.


    Tian Xiao, enveloped in yellow light, knew things were dire but was powerless to stop it. As he watched his disciples transform into hundred-zhang-long yellow dragons, he could only stand helplessly, knowing his turn was next.


    The dragons roared, and as the endless powerhouses transformed into yellow dragons, their roars echoed throughout the urn. Every living creature was turning into a dragon.


    More yellow smoke poured into Tian Xiao''s body, making him increasingly uncontroble. He struggled to stay conscious but felt the urn vibrating at a strange frequency, further muddling his mind.


    "Humm��"


    Tian Xiao finally lost his sanity, his body shing with intense yellow light.


    "Roar��"


    With a roar that surpassed all others, Tian Xiao''s body exploded with yellow light, transforming into a ten-thousand-zhang-long yellow dragon. The dragon''s eyes were still lifeless as it roared and flew towards the center of the Floating Blood Sea.


    Not only Tian Xiao but Yin Luo Ri also sumbed. The Tiger n supreme, a massive white tiger, transformed into a ten-thousand-zhang-long yellow dragon, joining the others.


    The world changed abruptly as the urn filled with a thick yellow smoke. The smoke grew denser.


    Perhaps because Mr. Corpse''s zombies were dead, the smoke didn''t affect them. But Xianxian and others at the urn''s gap were left speechless.


    "This... this is feng shui magic, concealing heaven''s will, defying transformation!" Old Drunkard eximed in horror.


    Everyone who witnessed this scene was terrified. Who could have imagined that a feng shui formation could be so eerie and powerful?

 Chapter 642: The Mantis Stalks the Cicada, Unaware of the Oriole Behind

    <h4>Chapter 642: The Mantis Stalks the Cicada, Unaware of the Oriole Behind</h4>


    The mystical art of feng shui concealed the will of heaven and defied transformation, forcing living beings into the form of yellow dragons. Even those at the Heavenly Extreme Realm could not escape its grasp. The power of feng shui was extraordinarily enigmatic.


    The saying goes: "Fate first, luck second, feng shui third, virtue fourth, and knowledge fifth." That feng shui ranks above virtue and knowledge underscores its profound and mysterious nature. While it might not gather fortune or enhance cultivation speed through merits, its ability to conceal heaven''s will and transform beings was testament to its strength. It was a power that defied understanding.


    Compared to the vast Dragon-Trapping Urn formation, Gu Qianyou''s small feng shui formation was insignificant. Gu Qianyou had only learned the basics, whereas Shenxiu was the master of his lineage. Naturally, there was noparison.


    Gazing at the grand and mysterious feng shui formation before her, Gu Qianyou felt a growing sense of awe.


    "Empress, should we wake His Majesty? The situation is bing increasingly strange," Mr. Corpse asked.


    "No need. His Majesty rarely gets to rest. No one is to disturb him," Gu Qianyou stated firmly.


    "Understood!" everyone responded immediately.


    The yellow smoke spread across all corners of the urn, with only the ''Daguo'' position remaining unaffected. Only those in this position were spared from transforming into yellow dragons.


    The purple-haired man, while battling Gu Qianyou''s formation, felt a profound sense of despair. The distant dragon roars and the yellow smoke signaled the activation of the grand formation, making him realize how much he had missed. The sight of the formation filled him with a deep sense of sorrow.


    Nian Youyou, curious about the yellow smoke, moved towards it and attempted to catch some. She reached out and grabbed a wisp, but the smoke was peculiarly resilient. A strand of it entered her body, followed by more smoke that she couldn''t control. Her expression changed dramatically.


    However, the smoke couldn''t prate the ancestral divine beast, whose thick hide seemed impervious.


    Feeling the strange changes within her, Nian Youyou''s pupils contracted, turning from ck to golden. She transformed into a heap of yellow sand that floated back, carrying the ancestral divine beast, and exited through the urn''s gap.


    Once outside, the yellow sand reformed into Nian Youyou, who looked terrified. She observed the wisp of yellow smoke in her palm, which dissipated as if it lost its potency outside the urn.


    "What is this?" Nian Youyou eximed in wonder.


    If Shenxiu had seen this, he would have been even more shocked. First, the ancestral divine beast could resist the yellow smoke, and second, Nian Youyou could transform herself into sand and expel the smoke.


    Even powerful figures like Tian Xiao and Yin Luo Ri were affected, unable to resist the transformation. Yet Nian Youyou had managed to evade it?


    Two dayster, near the former Floating Blood Sea, a group of Great Yan Dynasty experts watched in amazement as the yellow smoke spread and dragon roars echoed.


    "Dragons?" The Great Yan experts looked puzzled. Where did these dragonse from, and why were there so many dragon roars? The sound grew stronger and louder.


    Some brave experts flew in to investigate.


    Concealing Heaven''s Will, Defying Transformation��a living person being forcibly transformed into a yellow dragon, even Heavenly Extreme Realm experts couldn''t escape this fate. The mystical art of feng shui was too enigmatic!


    The saying goes: "Fate first, luck second, feng shui third, virtue fourth, and knowledge fifth." The high ranking of feng shui underscores its profound and mysterious nature. It might not gather fortune or enhance cultivation speed through merits, but its ability to conceal heaven''s will and transform beings was testament to its strength��a power that defied understanding.


    Compared to the vast Dragon-Trapping Urn formation, Gu Qianyou''s small feng shui formation was insignificant. Gu Qianyou had only learned the basics, whereas Shenxiu was the master of his lineage. Naturally, there was noparison.


    Gazing at the grand and mysterious feng shui formation before her, Gu Qianyou felt a growing sense of awe.


    "Empress, should we wake His Majesty? The situation is bing increasingly strange," Mr. Corpse asked.


    "No need. His Majesty rarely gets to rest. No one is to disturb him," Gu Qianyou stated firmly.


    "Understood!" everyone responded immediately.


    The yellow smoke spread across all corners of the urn, with only the ''Daguo'' position remaining unaffected. Only those in this position were spared from transforming into yellow dragons.


    The purple-haired man, while battling Gu Qianyou''s formation, felt a profound sense of despair. The distant dragon roars and the yellow smoke signaled the activation of the grand formation, making him realize how much he had missed. The sight of the formation filled him with a deep sense of sorrow.


    Nian Youyou, curious about the yellow smoke, moved towards it and attempted to catch some. She reached out and grabbed a wisp, but the smoke was peculiarly resilient. A strand of it entered her body, followed by more smoke that she couldn''t control. Her expression changed dramatically.


    However, the smoke couldn''t prate the ancestral divine beast, whose thick hide seemed impervious.


    Feeling the strange changes within her, Nian Youyou''s pupils contracted, turning from ck to golden. She transformed into a heap of yellow sand that floated back, carrying the ancestral divine beast, and exited through the urn''s gap.


    Once outside, the yellow sand reformed into Nian Youyou, who looked terrified. She observed the wisp of yellow smoke in her palm, which dissipated as if it lost its potency outside the urn.


    "What is this?" Nian Youyou eximed in wonder.


    If Shenxiu had seen this, he would have been even more shocked. First, the ancestral divine beast could resist the yellow smoke, and second, Nian Youyou could transform herself into sand and expel the smoke.


    Even powerful figures like Tian Xiao and Yin Luo Ri were affected, unable to resist the transformation. Yet Nian Youyou had managed to evade it?


    Two dayster, near the former Floating Blood Sea, a group of Great Yan Dynasty experts watched in amazement as the yellow smoke spread and dragon roars echoed.


    "Dragons?" The Great Yan experts looked puzzled. Where did these dragonse from, and why were there so many dragon roars? The sound grew stronger and louder.


    Some brave experts flew in to investigate.


    As they ventured closer, they saw the yellow smoke enveloping everything. The sight of countless powerhouses transforming into dragons was overwhelming.


    Meanwhile, inside the formation, Gu Qianyou''s setup continued to hold strong, providing a small haven amidst the chaos. The gap in the urn allowed them to remain unaffected by the yellow smoke, but the tension was palpable.


    The purple-haired man, realizing the scale of the disaster unfolding, felt a deepening sense of doom. He had missed the opportunity to avert this catastrophe, and now the consequences were unavoidable. The Realm Lord''s n was in motion, and any failure on his part would mark him as the greatest traitor in the Ageless Realm''s history.


    Nian Youyou''s encounter with the yellow smoke had revealed a potential w in the formation. While the purple-haired man was trapped, others began to take notice of the urn''s peculiarities.


    From a distance, Shenxiu monitored the formation''s progress, confident in its sess. The transformation of so many powerful beings into yellow dragons was a testament to his feng shui mastery. Yet, the small w remained unnoticed, a potential weakness that could unravel the grand scheme.


    The stage was set for an epic confrontation. As the Great Yan experts continued their investigations, the truth of the formation''s power and its vulnerabilities would soone to light. The mantis stalked the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind��hidden forces awaited their moment to strike, ready to exploit any opportunity presented by the unfolding chaos.


    Confrontation at the Center


    As these powerhouses ventured deeper into the yellow smoke, they too fell prey to its effects. To their horror, they witnessed a bizarre phenomenon��countless yellow dragons converging, merging intorger dragons. Two dragons would touch and seamlessly blend into one, forming a new,rger dragon. This process repeated endlessly, with dragons merging into everrger entities.


    Astonished, the Great Yan Dynasty experts watched in disbelief. However, it wasn''t long before they too were transformed into enormous yellow dragons, merging with thergest dragon.


    Yellow smoke engulfed everything, reaching the massive ck hole where Nangong Sheng battled the two Wu n members. The space around them was in turmoil, unable to withstand the strain of the powerful immortal-levelbatants. The area was filled with ck holes, and the surroundings trembled violently.


    At the center of the ck hole, Nangong Sheng''s clothes were tattered, his back covered in ghastly ck scars. His face showed signs of exhaustion and rage. Despite his formidable strength, he appeared on the brink of copse.


    Above his head floated the massive iron book, the Earth Book, emitting gray-white ripples that protected him. However, his opponents were overwhelmingly powerful.


    The two Wu n members, despite the numerous cracks on their robes, stood strong, leaning on their pitch-ck staffs.


    Nangong Sheng was being overpowered even with the Earth Book in his possession.


    "A mere Celestial Immortal with such power? The small world indeed has its wonders. You''ve endured the heavenly tribtion at the tenth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm. If you had reached the eleventh level and be an Earth Immortal, I might be wary. But the gap between a Celestial Immortal and an Earth Immortal is vast. You gave up the opportunities of the small world, and you''ll regret it for the rest of your life," the leading Wu n member taunted coldly.


    The Wu n member''s aim was to break Nangong Sheng''s spirit, but as a former master of a holynd, Nangong Sheng''s mental fortitude was unshakeable.


    "You''re injured too. What''s wrong with the small world? You think I''d fear you if I reached the great world?" Nangong Sheng retorted defiantly.


    "You haven''t ascended, haven''t been baptized by the great world, so your strength is significantly weakened. To think you could defeat me with your Celestial Immortal power, even with the unfinished Earth Book, is naive," the leading Wu n member sneered.


    "Do the Wu n always talk big?" Nangong Sheng spat, coughing up blood.


    Seeing Nangong Sheng''s severe injuries, the Wu n member smiled coldly. "You''re at your limit. Hand over the Earth Book, and I might spare your life."


    "Hahaha, you just can''t take the Earth Book, can you? Trying to use such underhanded tactics?" Nangong Shengughed maniacally.


    "Hmph, since you seek death, you can''t me me!" the leading Wu n member scoffed coldly.


    With a wave of his hand, blue ripples resembling electric waves emanated from his palm, and he pointed his staff directly at the Earth Book.


    "Shattering Soul��"


    The Wu n leader''s attack, fierce and unrelenting, rushed toward Nangong Sheng.


    Seeing this move, fear flickered in Nangong Sheng''s eyes. Clearly, he had suffered from this attack before. But with no choice but to face it, his panic turned to a fierce resolve. His bloodshot eyes glinted with a ruthless light. He was ready to fight to the death.


    "Break��"


    Nangong Sheng pointed at the Earth Book, spitting out a mouthful of blood. The book expanded a hundredfold, emitting a powerful force that collided with the Wu n''s attack.


    The sh of these two mighty forces expanded the edges of the ck hole once more, sending powerful shockwaves across the ground and disturbing the yellow smoke environment.


    "Puh��"


    Nangong Sheng spat blood, his face turning pale and lifeless. His body twisted in pain, clearly defeated in this final sh, his expression one of utter defeat, as if his soul was about to dissipate. The Wu n leader was also thrown back a hundred zhang, coughing up a mouthful of clotted blood. He was injured but not severely.


    The Earth Book fell to the ground between them, out of Nangong Sheng''s control.


    Nangong Shengy limp, seemingly devoid of any strength to continue fighting, looking like a corpse��a fallen immortal due to the Earth Book.


    The Wu n members smiled in satisfaction, but the leader, sensing the need for caution, exuded a killing intent.


    At that moment��


    "Roar��"


    A thunderous dragon roar shattered the surrounding space. A colossal yellow dragon, fifty thousand zhang long, charged into the ck hole. The Wu n members, momentarily rxed, were caught off guard. The dragon widened the ck hole and, in a swift move, mped its jaws onto the now-erged Earth Book.


    The scene dramatically yed out like a ssic tale of the mantis stalking the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind.


    With the Earth Book firmly in its grasp, the yellow dragon turned to flee. The Wu n members, now recovering their senses, reacted in fury.


    "You beast, how dare you��"

 Chapter 643: Calamity Star

    <h4>Chapter 643: Cmity Star</h4>


    "You wretched beast, how dare you����������������������������������������������������"


    The sudden change infuriated the two Wu n members. They were already aware of the death of theirrade who had been dealing with Tian Xiao and the others, but they hadn''t addressed it because they had more pressing matters to attend to. Their ancestral task was of utmost importance, and failure was not an option. Besides, among the two of them, the stronger had to confront Nangong Sheng, while the weaker one, who was on par with the deceased, would have met the same fate if sent.


    Now, one was dead, and the other was gravely injured. The lead Wu member was enraged and unwilling to abandon the coveted Earth Book before them.


    "߸����������������������������������������������������"


    With a furious shout, the lead Wu''s body suddenly expanded, powerful energy radiating in all directions, with visible tendrils of dark energy swirling around. His body grew to a towering height of a thousand feet, his staff erging ordingly and floating beside him. He reached out and grabbed the dragon''s tail, yanking it forcefully.


    "�𡫡�������������������������������������������������"


    With a thunderous roar, the yellow dragon, which had been trying to escape, was pulled back. The dragon, still clutching the Earth Book in its mouth, red furiously at the giant Wu.


    "��������������������������������������������������"


    The yellow dragon roared, swinging its powerful tail towards the Wu.


    The battle was about to erupt when Nangong Sheng, weakened, trembled slightly and disappeared from the scene, abandoning the Earth Book.


    "Chase him down and kill him! He''s under my ''Pulverized Soul'' spell now. His soul is shattered like dust, and his power is barely a fraction of what it was!" the thousand-foot Wumanded hispanion.


    "Yes!" The other Wu quickly pursued.


    Thus, the colossal Wu faced off against the five-thousand-foot giant dragon,mencing a new, ferocious battle.


    Nangong Sheng had clung to the Earth Book for a reason; with it, he had a sliver of hope. Without it, he was doomed. He had opened the Earth Book and knew its contents; the Wu would never spare him knowing this. Desperate, he had chosen to fight to the death, but the enemy was overwhelmingly strong.


    Upon escaping the ck hole, Nangong Sheng noticed something unusual about the surroundings, something that even prevented him from reaching the Great Thousand World. He knew that if he made it there, numerous powerful beings awaited him, and he would be torn apart.


    As the greatest formation master in the world, Nangong Sheng, though not highly knowledgeable about Feng Shui, could still read the energies. He quickly identified a w in the Feng Shui formation, where energies were mysteriously leaking in one direction.


    Dragging his exhausted body, he rushed towards the w.


    This Feng Shui formation could obscure heavenly secrets and defy nature, but Nangong Sheng, with his celestial life, was unaffected by the formation''s yellow smoke. Despite being weakened to a fraction of his power, he remained intact due to his celestial nature. Anyone else, even a top-tier Heavenly Extreme cultivator, would have perished.


    The Wu n''s Pulverized Soul spell was terrifying.


    Nangong Sheng hastily set up numerous formations to distract his pursuer and continued fleeing.


    At first, Nangong Sheng''s array formations worked, but gradually they lost their effect. The Wu n member who had been in a daze due to Nangong Sheng''s formations began to smirk coldly.


    "So, there are no other living beings around, only you? If that''s the case, I don''t need to trouble myself with your tricks. I''ll just track your soul''s imprint. Let''s see how you escape now," the Wu n member sneered.


    Nangong Sheng felt an increasing sense of danger as his pursuer drew closer. With no other choice, he activated a secret technique, sharply increasing his speed. However, his soul, already fragmented, suffered even more from the exertion. His vision blurred, and in a desperate sprint, he managed to temporarily shake off the Wu n member.


    But Nangong Sheng knew he was growing weaker by the moment. As he approached the gap in the Heaven and Earth Urn, his strength finally gave out. In a state of semi-consciousness, he transformed into a falling meteor, crashing towards the ground.


    After more than two days, Zhong Shan slowly awoke. Though not fully recovered, he regained about fifty to sixty percent of his strength. He got up and stepped outside.


    "Your Majesty, you''re finally out!" Jiu Laotou eximed with joy.


    Everyone gathered around, their faces filled with relief and happiness, except for Gu Qianyou, who looked slightly pale.


    "How is everything?" Zhong Shan asked Gu Qianyou.


    "These past two days have been exhausting. Setting up the Feng Shui formation wasn''t easy," Gu Qianyou replied with a bitter smile.


    Zhong Shan, feeling concerned, gently held her hand, giving it aforting squeeze. His gesture made Gu Qianyou blush slightly.


    "Zhong Shan, something big happened outside. A gigantic Feng Shui formation!" Xianxian called out urgently.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    The group then detailed the events that had transpired outside. Zhong Shan analyzed everything carefully in his mind while his counterpart in the yang realm began questioning the y Bodhisattva.


    After hearing Zhong Shan''s ount, the y Bodhisattva was astonished. "Your Majesty, are you saying there''s a gap of about two hundred miles in Shenxiu''s ''Dragon-Trapping Urn Array''?"


    "It seems so," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The y Bodhisattva''s expression turned peculiar. "Shenxiu''s lifelong reputation has beenpletely ruined by Your Majesty and the Empress!"


    "How so?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "This array is one of the most powerful of Shenxiu''s lineage, and it consumes an enormous amount of resources��spirit stones and endless materials, enough to make anyone envious."


    "Oh?"


    "To put it in perspective, the materials and spirit stones used could buy five imperial dynasties!" the y Bodhisattva exined.


    "Five imperial dynasties?" Zhong Shan was taken aback.


    Zhong Shan understood the significance of the y Bodhisattva''s words. The resources were not only the spirit stones and materials of the royal family but also those of themon people. The total consumption was unimaginably vast.


    "However, for the Earth Book, it''s all worth it," the y Bodhisattva added. Even immortals from the Great Thousand World coveted the Earth Book. Exchanging such resources for it was indeed worthwhile.


    "But it seems that Your Majesty and the Empress have destroyed it all!" the y Bodhisattva said.


    "Oh? Didn''t the living beings ultimately transform into the yellow dragon?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "They did, but it won''tst. If there were no ws, the yellow dragon''s power would remain unchanged. However, with that gap, the essence of the formation is leaking out. With each leak, the yellow dragon''s strength weakens. Eventually, it willpletely copse," the y Bodhisattva exined, looking at Zhong Shan with aplex expression.


    Although the y Bodhisattva did not dare to speak it aloud, he continually marveled at His Majesty''s identity as a "cmity star." Wherever Zhong Shan went, trouble followed. This time it was the "Dragon-Trapping Urn Array," previously it had been the siege of Nie Fancheng at the Ten Thousand Pill Conference, the catastrophic end of Elysium, and the closed-mouth meditation of the Return to Origin Buddha. Each encounter with His Majesty resulted in these renowned figures of the world meeting their downfall, one after another, in a manner that was earth-shattering, soul-stirring, and unforgettable.


    As Zhong Shan absorbed the situation, far to the south of the Underworld''s grand formation, Shenxiu observed the array before him. He held a piece of jade in his hand, using it to control the yellow dragon within. In front of Shenxiu, an image conjured by magic showed the yellow dragon battling the Wu n member.


    Ye Qingcheng watched with satisfaction.


    "Gathering countless strong figures and three Heavenly Extreme cultivators, this yellow dragon''s power is indeed extraordinarily formidable. Even that transformed Wu is no match, retreating step by step!" Ye Qingcheng said with satisfaction.


    "Yes, it''s mainly due to the power of the grand array. The strong figures are merely there to bind the spirits. As long as the array stands, the yellow dragon''s power remains undiminished, and there''s no doubt about securing the Earth Book," Shenxiu said with a pleased smile.


    "Indeed, many thanks to Master Shenxiu for this!" Ye Qingcheng also smiled contentedly.


    Suddenly, Shenxiu''s expression changed.


    "Master Shenxiu, what''s wrong?" Ye Qingcheng asked in confusion.


    "It''s not right. The essence of the formation is leaking. Leaking? How could this be?" Shenxiu kept examining the jade in his hand, unwilling to believe it.


    "Master Shenxiu? What''s the problem?" Ye Qingcheng asked again.


    "There must be a w in the array. Someone did not set it up ording to specifications!" Shenxiu''s face turned grim.


    "Impossible. I meticulously selected all the principal formation setters for the sixty-three positions," Ye Qingcheng said immediately but still furrowed his brows, starting to believe Shenxiu.


    "Hurry, we need to find and fix it before it''s toote!" Shenxiu urged.


    "Alright, let''s each take a side!" Ye Qingcheng responded promptly.


    The two then quickly moved along the sides of the great urn, trying to find the source of the problem as fast as possible.


    At the ''Excess'' position, Zhong Shan understood everything.


    "Forget it, this isn''t our concern. Qianyou, activate the formation onest time, and I''ll take us out," Zhong Shan said decisively.


    "Alright!" Gu Qianyou nodded, making one final push with the formation.


    Then, on a white cloud, Zhong Shan lifted everyone. While others couldn''t distinguish directions within the Feng Shui formation, Zhong Shan''s shadow body had no such restrictions. The cloud shed, heading towards the outer edge.


    Meanwhile, on a mountain peak at the formation''s boundary, a purple-haired man''s face lit up with joy.


    "The enemy''s Feng Shui formation is weakening? Good, good, it''s almost done!" the purple-haired man eximed in delight.

 Chapter 644: The Excitement of the Purple-Haired Man

    <h4>Chapter 644: The Excitement of the Purple-Haired Man</h4>


    "The enemy''s Feng Shui formation is weakening? Good, good, it''s almost over!" The purple-haired man eximed with delight.


    After two and a half days of heart-wrenching despair, the purple-haired man finally saw a glimmer of hope. The previously imprable Feng Shui formation was now crumbling at an astonishing rate, copsing like a house of cards.


    An hour. An hour was all he needed to break free from this troublesome formation and proceed with the grand task assigned by the Realm Master.


    Nearby, Nian Youyou''s eyes showed a trace of hesitation. Was Gu Qianyou really failing? What should she do then?


    As she pondered, a white cloud suddenly burst out from the Feng Shui formation in the distance. Nian Youyou froze as she saw Zhong Shan standing at the forefront of the cloud, leading a group of people out of the array.


    With a beautiful woman on each arm, Zhong Shan''s sight made Nian Youyou''s mind buzz. She stood there, stunned, as tears began to flow down her cheeks.


    Watching Zhong Shan, Nian Youyou felt a whirlwind of emotions. She didn''t know how to face him, feeling only a deep ache in her heart. She quickly hid in a valley, running to her room and leaning against the door, biting her lip. Her heart was filled with endless sorrow, and countless memories flooded her mind once again.


    "I''m not talking about the Buddha''s Tomb, but the small courtyard next to it. Did you see it?"


    "What about it?"


    "That''s Fragrant Courtyard, where Fragrant Bodhisattva lives. She guards the Buddha''s Tomb, and in her courtyard, there are three ''Seven-Colored Roses,'' the only ones in the world, the kings of roses. All three are in her courtyard. Look..."


    "Does Fragrant Bodhisattva care about the Seven-Colored Roses?"


    "They are her lifeline. She spends her days facing the tomb, never speaking to anyone, and has a bad temper."


    "When will you bring one for me?"


    "Yuyou, you''re really here!"


    "Yuyou, what''s wrong? Who bullied you?"


    "You''re okay, that''s all that matters."


    "It''s just three roses. I saw that Fragrant Bodhisattva wasn''t around, so I picked them without any trouble. Why are you so excited? You weren''t this thrilled when I gave you roses before."


    Memories shed through Nian Youyou''s mind like a fleeting shadow, filled with joy, sorrow, gratitude, and guilt. Tears streamed down her face, but a smile tugged at her lips. She was crying and smiling at the same time��a testament to a love that she could never forget.


    The Heartless Doctrine? Why did these feelings only grow deeper? Why couldn''t she forget them at all?


    Outside, in the distance, Zhong Shan led his group out. Surveying the surroundings, they quickly noticed the purple-haired man atop a distant peak.


    Seeing the purple-haired man, the group was taken aback. His face was shadowed, eyes gleaming with a cold light, as if he were plotting a grand conspiracy. So engrossed was he in his thoughts that he didn''t even notice Zhong Shan and his group had emerged.


    The purple-haired man was indeed hatching a grand scheme. The enemy''s formation was rapidly weakening, and he was already imagining how to torment those who had humiliated him.


    "I''ll make sure they suffer a fate worse than death. And that woman with the body of Xun Ding, I''ll make her life a living hell!"


    "Your Majesty, should we take him down?" Mr. Corpse asked directly.


    Everyone nodded in agreement. This man had trapped them, and if not for Zhong Shan''s timely arrival, they would have been doomed. Their hatred for him was immense.


    Seeing the purple-haired man enjoying his delusions, Zhong Shan''s expression turned slightly peculiar. Finally, he shook his head and said, "Forget it. Someone else will trouble him soon enough."


    If the y Bodhisattva was right, this purple-haired man had ruined the grand ns of the Undying Realm, and he was bound to face severe misfortune.


    "Understood!" The group nodded.


    Zhong Shan led them away quickly. With his power only at sixty percent, he could not handle another encounter with a Wu n member. If they didn''t leave now, when would they?


    As they flew out of the enormous ''gap'' in the grand array, a meteor-like fireball suddenly shot down from a great height, heading straight for a distant mountain forest. The fireball appeared so because of the high speed, causing friction with the surrounding air.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan looked puzzled. What had just emerged?


    "Zhong Shan, what was that? Quick, let''s check it out!" Xianxian eximed.


    "Alright!" Zhong Shan nodded and sped towards it.


    The fireball moved incredibly fast and soon crashed into a distant valley.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    A huge explosion echoed through the valley. Having just exited the ''Dragon-Trapping Urn Array,'' they weren''t far from the crash site and quickly flew over.


    Upon arrival, they saw a massive crater in the ground, with surrounding forests ame. In the center of the cratery a man with torn clothes and numerous injuries. Most of his body was charred ck, with patches of intact skin here and there, obscuring his face.


    "How high did he fall from to end up like this?" Xianxian wondered aloud.


    Mr. Corpse quickly approached and flipped the man over.


    "Nangong Sheng?" Jiu Laotou eximed in shock.


    Nangong Sheng? The same Nangong Sheng who had defeated the Undying Realm''s Realm Master with a few Go pieces? How had he ended up in such a dire state, as if his entire body was shattered?


    "His soul energy is extremely weak, as if he could die at any moment," Mr. Corpse remarked.


    "Die? But he''s an immortal! How did he end up like this?" Xianxian cried out.


    Zhong Shan stared at Nangong Sheng, then turned to look at Gu Qianyou. She had also realized something, her face showing a hint of panic.


    The moment Zhong Shan guessed the problem, he leapt forward, flipping his hand to produce a pitch-ck talisman��his precious treasure, the Mo Yu Talisman!


    Seeing Zhong Shan take out the Mo Yu Talisman, others might not understand, but Gu Qianyou and Mr. Corpse knew its power and raised their eyebrows.


    With a gentle point of his finger, Zhong Shan activated the Mo Yu Talisman, which emitted a soft ck light. He ced it on Nangong Sheng''s forehead, instantly sealing his soul fluctuations, preventing any energy from leaking out.


    "Hurry, let''s go!" Zhong Shan urged, carrying Nangong Sheng and leading the group away swiftly.


    They found a hidden valley where Mr. Corpse quickly retrieved a coffin, ced Nangong Sheng inside, and buried it underground.


    Just as they finished everything and pretended to be exploring the valley, the Wu n member from earlier finally emerged. He was momentarily stunned to see such arge gap in the grand array, then turned his head to spot the purple-haired man ''struggling'' on the distant mountain peak, growing more perplexed.


    Ignoring everything else, the Wu n member dashed straight to the spot where Nangong Sheng had crashed.


    At the location where Nangong Sheng had fallen, the Wu n member found him missing. Where had he gone? Using the unique abilities of the Wu n, the n member released his soul power, quickly spreading it in all directions.


    He soon discovered Zhong Shan and his group leisurely exploring a nearby valley. Probing with his soul power, he didn''t sense Nangong Sheng among them. It seemed they were genuinely just sightseeing.


    Just then, a shadow darted away in the distance, attempting to flee.


    "Where do you think you''re going!" the Wu n member shouted, giving chase.


    The shadow was none other than Zhong Shan''s shadow clone, used to lure the Wu n member away.


    Seeing the Wu n member being led away, Zhong Shan didn''t hesitate. He dug up the coffin containing Nangong Sheng and led the group in the opposite direction, quickly disappearing without a trace.


    As for the Wu n member pursuing the shadow clone, the clone was extraordinarily fast, outpacing even Heavenly Extreme cultivators. Eventually, however, the Wu n member caught up to it.


    Cornered in a valley, the shadow clone vanished without a trace, leaving the Wu n member baffled and frustrated. He had no choice but to return.


    Meanwhile, inside the grand array, the thousand-foot Wu and the five-thousand-foot yellow dragon had been battling for a long time. Initially, the Wu was being overwhelmed, but the yellow dragon mysteriously shrank and weakened during the fight. Gradually, it became no match for the Wu.


    Finally, the Wu seized the Earth Book. With the book in hand, the Wu didn''t linger and swiftly fled towards the gap.


    Before long, he reached the gap where the purple-haired man was.


    "Where''s Nangong Sheng?" the thousand-foot Wu asked.


    "He got away! Father, you''d better handle it!" the other Wu responded.


    "No, to avoid unnecessaryplications, we should leave this ce immediately and return to the Great Thousand World. This Small Thousand World is too strange. Let''splete our ancestral task first!"


    "Yes!"


    As the two Wu n members prepared to leave, they were startled by an unexpected shout.


    "Array, dissipate����������������������������������������������������"


    In the distance, the purple-haired man shouted manically, and the white mist array before him abruptly dissipated.


    The Wu n members exchanged a nce, decided it was best to avoid the strange man, and left him alone.


    As the Wu n members vanished, the purple-haired man surveyed the disciples of the Undying Realm and the small town where Gu Qianyou had been.


    "Alright, no need to go after them now. We''ll deal with themter. First, set up the array andplete the Realm Master''s task!" hemanded.


    "Yes!" the disciples of the Undying Realm responded promptly and began arranging the formation as rehearsed.


    Inside the urn, the massive yellow dragon''s energy finally reached a breaking point.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������"


    The yellow dragon exploded, scattering countless strong cultivators like raindrops in all directions, returning to their original forms.


    From the south to the north, Shenxiu''s face fell. He knew this was a disaster. The Feng Shui formation hadpletely failed. He needed to meet up with Ye Qingcheng.


    Flying around the urn, Shenxiu finally met Ye Qingcheng at the ''Excess'' position. Together, they witnessed a familiar scene.


    A beam of yellow light shot up to the sky and down to the earth, spreading out like ceramic, connecting with the ''walls'' on both sides.


    "Boom������������������������" "Boom������������������������"


    The connections were made, and the Dragon-Trapping Urn Array was wlesslypleted with all sixty-four positions in ce.


    "It''s finally done!" the purple-haired man sighed in relief, a smile of satisfaction on his face.


    Turning around, his smile froze.


    "Realm Master, Master Shenxiu, what are you doing here?"


    "..."

 Chapter 645: Conversing with the Immortal

    <h4>Chapter 645: Conversing with the Immortal</h4>


    "Realm Master, Master Shenxiu, what brings you here?" The purple-haired man felt increasingly fearful as he observed the stern expressions of Ye Qingcheng and Master Shenxiu.


    "Hmph!" Ye Qingcheng snorted coldly, refusing to look at the purple-haired man any longer. However, the anger in his eyes caused the surrounding temperature to plummet.


    "Master Shenxiu, what do you think?" Ye Qingcheng asked, worried.


    Shenxiu shook his head and sighed. "The Wu n has already taken the Earth Book and left. The internal essence of the yellow dragon has dissipated, and it can no longer form a dragon. Soon, the strong cultivators inside will awaken. We should retreat quickly!"


    Shenxiu felt a deep sense of defeat, and Ye Qingcheng''s eyes reflected the same. This time, the Undying Realm had paid a tremendous price, only to end in utter failure.


    With a flick of his sleeve, Ye Qingcheng cast another cold nce at the purple-haired man.


    "Disband the array and retreat!" Ye Qingchengmanded sharply.


    "Realm Master, it wasn''t me, it was...!" the purple-haired man stammered, trying to exin, but his words were futile now.


    Ye Qingcheng red at him, suppressing his anger. "We''ll discuss this back in the Undying Realm!"


    The intense coldness from Ye Qingcheng made the purple-haired man shudder in fear. "Yes!"


    The members of the Undying Realm began to retreat. Inside, as the yellow dragon exploded and countless cultivators scattered, they started to awaken.


    Tian Xiao awoke from his daze, instantly alert. Recalling the previous events, he shuddered and quickly scanned his surroundings.


    "Young Master, Young Master!" A nearby Tian family member ran over, clearly terrified by what had transpired.


    "Find the others, quickly!" Tian Xiao ordered.


    "Yes!" The Tian family member immediatelyplied.


    With Tian Xiao as their pir of support, the frightened group regained theirposure and began searching for their family members. More and more people woke up, including Xing Taidou and Yin Luori.


    The three Heavenly Extreme cultivators exchanged nces but said nothing to each other.


    "Young Master, we''ve found everyone. Aside from eight injured members who can''t move, the rest are all capable of walking," a Tian family member reported respectfully.


    Tian Xiao nced at Yin Luori and then cast a cold look at Xing Taidou.


    "Let''s go home!" Tian Xiao ordered.


    "Yes!" The Tian family members responded immediately.


    None of the strong cultivators had the slightest interest in politeness. The earlier events haunted their minds like a nightmare. Now that they could escape, they all turned and fled, disappearing in an instant.


    "Return to court!" Xing Taidoumanded.


    "Yes!" The officials of the Dayan Heavenly Court responded immediately.


    Yin Luori, silent, vanished from sight in the blink of an eye.


    In a serene valley, flowers bloomed in abundance. At the center stood a pitch-ck hall with its doors tightly shut. Outside, Gu Qianyou, Xianxian, Mr. Corpse, Jiu Laotou, Jing Tianci, and several wolf generals stood guard.


    Inside the hall, Zhong Shan stood with his hands behind his back, gazing at the giant coffin ced in the center. Insidey the charred and severely injured body of Nangong Sheng. His forehead was affixed with a pitch-ck talisman.


    With the Mo Yu Talisman on his forehead, Nangong Sheng''s breath was entirely gone, with not even a trace of soul fluctuation. He appeared no different from a corpse.


    Zhong Shan smiled slightly as he stepped forward and pointed at the Mo Yu Talisman. The talisman emitted a blue light, then detached from Nangong Sheng''s forehead and fell into Zhong Shan''s hand.


    "Whoosh."


    Nangong Sheng''s eyes snapped open!


    "Nangong Sheng, we meet again!" Zhong Shan said with a faint smile.


    Nangong Sheng slowly sat up, nced at the coffin, and then looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan?" Nangong Sheng raised an eyebrow.


    "It seems I haven''t made you forget me! Zhong Shan is honored!" Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "How could I forget? The most prominent figure in Shenzhou, the one who tricked the Tai Chi Diagram out of the Underworld, Zhong Shan!" Nangong Sheng shook his head.


    "Tricked? Heh, didn''t you give it to me back then?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "You used it to descend to the underworld, didn''t you?" Nangong Sheng stared at Zhong Shan.


    "Oh? You know?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "I know the origins of the Underworld''s Tai Chi Diagram. But now that you''re here, why did you save me?" Nangong Sheng asked, his eyes fixed on Zhong Shan.


    "What do you think?"


    "Zhong Shan is truly worthy of his reputation! I underestimated you," Nangong Sheng shook his head.


    "Many have underestimated me; you''re not the first," Zhong Shanughed.


    "I owe you a great debt for saving my life. I will repay it in the future," Nangong Sheng said calmly.


    As the world''s foremost formation master, Nangong Sheng''s mental and spiritual cultivation was profound. Zhong Shan had saved him, but Nangong Sheng''s pride wouldn''t allow him to weep and pledge loyalty like some might.


    "Hold on, Zhong Shan has a few questions and would like to seek your advice. As for the favor of saving your life, we can discuss thatter," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Zhong Shan was straightforward because he understood Nangong Sheng''s character. Such a proud person wouldn''t foolishly pledge allegiance simply because he was saved. Moreover, Zhong Shan had his own motives for saving him. There was no time for drawn-out strategies like the old Seven Captures and Seven Releases.


    "Oh?" Nangong Sheng looked at Zhong Shan, surprised by his directness.


    "I''ve always wondered why most Heavenly Extreme cultivators in Shenzhou wait until their lifespan is nearly exhausted before undergoing the tribtion to be immortals. This way, their foundations are deeper, and their power is greater upon bing immortals. Why did you, at only the tenth level of the Heavenly Extreme realm, rush to be a Profound Immortal? You still have a long life ahead. Why not wait until the eleventh or twelfth level? Could you enlighten me?" Zhong Shan asked.


    On the path of cultivation, it''s best to seek advice from those with experience rather than groping blindly.


    "Heh, I''m sure many are curious. You needn''t follow my example; I''m different from you all," Nangong Sheng shook his head.


    "Oh?"


    "I am a formation cultivator. There are no more formations in this world for me to learn from, no breakthroughs to be made through formations. My only path to greater strength lies in the Underworld or the Great Thousand World, where endless formations exist to make me infinitely powerful."


    "Hmm, Zhong Shan respects that," Zhong Shan nodded, understanding Nangong Sheng''s reasoning.


    "Respect? Heh, unnecessary. You are the most simr to Gu Shentong I''ve ever seen. Gu Shentong was once the greatest in the world. I wonder if you can replicate his glory," Nangong Sheng said, staring at Zhong Shan.


    "Haha, you say I resemble Gu Shentong? You tter me! Let''s focus on the present," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Oh?" Nangong Sheng frowned slightly.


    "Just now, my people examined you. Your soul was shattered into dust, and your body was broken. Such injuries would be fatal for a mortal, yet you, due to your celestial life force, are not only surviving but slowly recovering. Am I correct?"


    "Exactly!" Nangong Sheng admitted, watching Zhong Shan and waiting for his next words.


    "What do you think of my Da An Empire?" Zhong Shan abruptly changed the subject.


    "Hmm?"


    "My Da An Empire stands in the southern region of Shenzhou, dominating the south. Our national beast is the wolf, and our state religion is Daming. We have many strong cultivators and are continuously expanding. In the underworld, we also have a significant territory. Though it''s not as vast as a Heavenly Dynasty, it should beparable after this return!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "An Empire? Gu Shentong once built something simr. I naturally believe in the strength of your Da An."


    "Haha, I can tell that a mere empire might not catch your celestial eye. However, my purpose today is to persuade you to join Da An!" Zhong Shan said directly.


    "Hahaha, join Da An? Zhong Shan, you want me to serve under you?" Nangong Sheng''s expression darkened slightly.


    "You saw the talisman I used to seal you. Right now, you are not my match. Moreover, that Wu n member from earlier also fell by my hand!" Zhong Shan stated firmly.


    Zhong Shan aimed to assert his dominance, knowing that Nangong Sheng, an immortal, would never lower himself to someone he deemed inferior. To gain his respect, Zhong Shan had to establish an equal footing.


    "Oh? You killed that Wu n member?" Nangong Sheng''s eyes narrowed.


    Zhong Shan pointed to the side, where Nangong Sheng noticed a Wu n staff.


    Seeing the staff, Nangong Sheng''s eyes widened in astonishment. He finally believed Zhong Shan, recognizing that anyone who could defeat a Wu n member was indeed his equal.


    Taking a deep breath, Nangong Sheng looked at Zhong Shan seriously. "What do you want?"


    "Haha, one of my generals specializes in corpses and souls. He informed me that your soul will not fully recover for a thousand years. During this time, your strength will be greatly diminished, and the Small Thousand World will not expel you. However, you won''t be able to leave this world either, or your soul will be crushed in the void between worlds."


    "Yes," Nangong Sheng nodded steadily.


    "I want you to serve Da An for a thousand years, joining my empire!" Zhong Shan dered.


    "Haha, you just want the contents of my ''Earth Book,'' don''t you?" Nangong Sheng sneered.


    "The ''Earth Book''? I, Zhong Shan, do not covet the Earth Book!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s outright refusal, Nangong Sheng raised an eyebrow and looked intently at him.


    "Not interested? Very well, you saved my life, and I owe you a debt. However, if you want me to join Da An, give me the talisman you used on my forehead!" Nangong Sheng said, a hint of mischief in his tone.


    It was clear that Nangong Sheng had recognized the power of the Mo Yu Talisman. He believed Zhong Shan had used it to defeat the Wu n member and suspected Zhong Shan would be reluctant to part with such a powerful item. This was his way of testing Zhong Shan.


    "You mean the Mo Yu Talisman?" Zhong Shan looked directly at Nangong Sheng.

 Chapter 646: The Astronomical Observatory

    <h4>Chapter 646: The Astronomical Observatory</h4>


    "You mean the Mo Yu Talisman?" Zhong Shan fixed his gaze on Nangong Sheng.


    As he spoke, the Mo Yu Talisman suddenly appeared in Zhong Shan''s hand.


    "That''s it!" Nangong Sheng smiled at Zhong Shan, thinking who would be willing to part with such a treasure.


    "This Mo Yu Talisman is crucial for the restoration of your soul, isn''t it?" Zhong Shan suddenly smiled.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, a sh of panic appeared in Nangong Sheng''s eyes, quickly reced by a faint, bitter smile. "You can''t be fooled, can you? Yes, it can help me quickly repair my soul."


    "Haha, having an immortal join my Da An Empire is worth more than any toy. Since you value it so much, consider this Mo Yu Talisman as an advance on your sry for the next thousand years!" Zhong Shan said, tossing the talisman to Nangong Sheng.


    Zhong Shan''s sudden shift left Nangong Sheng bewildered. Did Zhong Shan not recognize its value? No, he surely knew the value of the Mo Yu Talisman.


    "You''re really willing to give me this treasure? In the Great Thousand World, it could be traded even with an Earth Immortal. You''re willing to use it just to have me join your court for a thousand years?" Nangong Sheng asked, staring at Zhong Shan with a puzzled expression.


    "Earth Immortal? Haha, in my eyes, even a Celestial Immortal doesn''tpare to you. You are a talent, and my Da An Empire needs all kinds of talents. You are worth the price. I, Zhong Shan, started my career inmerce, and I understand when an investment yields the greatest return," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Nangong Sheng''s initial confusion turned into realization.


    "You are the most bold person I''ve ever met!" Nangong Sheng took a deep breath.


    "Really? So, does that mean you agree?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Agree? Haha, aren''t you afraid that I''ll just take your treasure and leave?" Nangong Sheng asked solemnly.


    "As I said, this treasure is merely a toy to me. I won''t miss it much. I only value talents like you. If you really took it and ran, I''d just have to ept it. But I trust in your character and reputation. If you give me your word, what do I have to worry about?" Zhong Shan said with confidence.


    Nangong Sheng looked deeply at Zhong Shan once more. "Your forceful persuasion has convinced me. I will stay in Da An for now."


    "With Mr. Nangong joining us, Da An is honored. This is a time of turmoil, and I am pressed for time, so I had to use such a method. I hope you don''t take it to heart," Zhong Shan said, his demeanor shifting from arrogance to sincerity. He then made a slight bow to Nangong Sheng.


    Zhong Shan had no choice. He had forcibly recruited Nangong Sheng, who was bound to feel resistant. If he didn''t pacify this future important official, it would be like having a ticking time bomb, posing a great threat.


    To win over subordinates, one must also win their hearts. Even if their hearts weren''t won yet, they shouldn''t harbor resistance.


    Zhong Shan''s blend of benevolence and power was not weakness but the epitome of imperial strategy. Too much force would break, too much softness would corrupt. The right bnce could yield miraculous results.


    Sure enough, Nangong Sheng''s eyes, which had initially shown resistance and unfamiliarity, now appearedplex. Although he knew Zhong Shan''s intentions, he couldn''t help but ept Zhong Shan''s mixture of grace and power.


    Nangong Sheng felt conflicted, fully aware of Zhong Shan''s cunning. This level of scheming and imperial strategy was telling.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, who was sincerely apologizing and even bowing, and recalling the earlier strong threats, Nangong Sheng knew his life and death were at Zhong Shan''s mercy. With only a bitter smile left in his heart, he took a deep breath and looked at the precious treasure in his hand.


    Nangong Sheng knew that the Mo Yu Talisman was far from being a mere ''toy'' to Zhong Shan. It held significant meaning, yet Zhong Shan had resolutely handed it over to him.


    When someone saves your life, gives you their most treasured possession, and is so sincere, what right do you have to act haughty?


    "Alright, alright, I, Nangong Sheng, will join Da An for a thousand years!" Nangong Sheng sighed deeply.


    "With you joining, it''s a blessing for both Zhong Shan and Da An!" Zhong Shan said excitedly.


    "Your Majesty, Nangong Sheng greets you!" Nangong Sheng said.


    "Mr. Nangong, first focus on healing. Once you''ve recovered, we''ll have a long talk!" Zhong Shan said excitedly.


    Then Zhong Shan left the hall, carrying the Wu n staff, leaving a contemtive Nangong Sheng to heal.


    With another strong ally added to Da An, Zhong Shan was in high spirits.


    "You really gave Nangong Sheng that talisman? What about you...?" Gu Qianyou asked Zhong Shan privately, slightly surprised by his actions.


    "You don''t need to say it. I know the value of that talisman, but I value Nangong Sheng more. Besides, now that Nangong Sheng is part of Da An, having the talisman in his hands is the same as having it in mine. I haven''t lost anything!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Do you really trust him? What if he leaves after a thousand years?" Gu Qianyou rolled her eyes at Zhong Shan.


    "Use people without suspicion, and don''t use people you suspect. A thousand years? Once someone has been in Da An for a thousand years, do you think they would leave?" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    Winning the loyalty of subordinates is a basic skill of an emperor. With Zhong Shan''s abilities, wouldn''t a thousand years be enough to win over a subordinate''s heart?


    "Alright, you''re the sneakiest!" Gu Qianyou said with a satisfied smile.


    "Haha, and besides, the Mo Yu Talisman isn''t actually mine!" Zhong Shan thought aloud.


    "Huh?" Gu Qianyou was slightly puzzled.


    "The talisman belongs to Emperor Ying of the Great Qin. It''s his treasure. Regardless of why he gave it to me, this talisman is powerful, but it wasn''t made by me, and there are aspects of it I don''t fully understand. It might pose future risks. Instead of focusing on it and potentially facing problemster, I''d rather use it to win over talent and create my own best treasures in the future!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Understood," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    When Zhong Shan and his entourage returned to Changjing, the Da An Empire in the underworld was embroiled in war.


    The great battle was imminent, with two imperial dynasties attacking. Lin Xiao led the Da An military, with Yan Chongzhi facing one dynasty each, defending the empire and even pushing into enemy territory.


    Zhong Shan returned to the capital! Civil officials weed him, and Lin Xiao quickly returned from the front lines after receiving the news.


    In Zhong Shan''s study.


    "Your Majesty, you''ve returned. On the tenth day after you left, the two imperial dynasties dered war on us! We''ve been fighting nonstop," Lin Xiao reported immediately.


    "Haha, you''ve worked hard. Now that I''m back, we''ll reward the troops to boost morale!" Zhong Shanughed.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao responded with a smile.


    "We''ve studied these two dynasties before. I won''t intervene. You and Yan Chongzhi can handle them!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. Rest assured, General Yan and I are more than capable of dealing with these two dynasties!" Lin Xiao said confidently.


    "Good!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Who is this?" Lin Xiao suddenly focused on Nangong Sheng.


    Being summoned to this study indicated that a significant figure had joined Da An.


    To know that even powerful figures like Sha Po and Jing Tianci, who are at the peak of the emperor level, do not have the privilege to enter this inner circle.


    "Nangong Sheng!" Nangong Sheng nodded in greeting.


    "The Immortal Nangong Sheng?" Lin Xiao said in surprise.


    Lin Xiao''s mind was in turmoil. Last time, His Majesty had returned with Yan Chongzhi and Jiu Laotou. This time, he had managed to bring back an immortal?


    Nangong Sheng showed a slight smile, understanding Lin Xiao''s surprise. He also knew of Lin Xiao''s reputation. Though Lin Xiao''s strength was not exceptionally high, his strategic prowess and ability to treat two imperial dynasties as mere ythings was nothing short of impressive.


    "Nangong Sheng, now that you have joined Da An, what position should I give you?" Zhong Shan suddenly pondered aloud.


    "Your Majesty, I am not suited for the constraints of the court. Please assign me a more rxed position," Nangong Sheng requested.


    Indeed, considering his personality, strength, status, and pride, it would be difficult for Nangong Sheng to bow daily to Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan seemed to understand this and nodded.


    "Very well, in that case, I will establish a new department, the Astronomical Observatory. It will be responsible for the formation of defenses and the study of formations and strategy. Nangong Sheng, you will be the Director of the Astronomical Observatory!" Zhong Shan dered.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Nangong Sheng nodded.


    This role was right up Nangong Sheng''s alley, aligning with his expertise and interests. How could he refuse?


    "Nangong Sheng, do you recognize these two items?" Zhong Shan produced the Wu n staff and the immortal artifact Apricot Yellow g.


    Nangong Sheng examined them briefly. "Both are from the Great Thousand World, and the materials required to make them must alsoe from there. The Wu n staff can only be used by the Wu n. As for this Apricot Yellow g, I understand its internal formationspletely, but the materials needed to replicate it are scarce. Moreover, it shows its full potential only when used with the other four gs. Right now, it is just an ordinary replica of an immortal artifact."


    "Oh? Just an ordinary replica?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "A set known as the ''Five Direction g Array'' ismon in many heavenly courts in the Great Thousand World. It is said to be modeled after the ''Heaven and Earth Five Direction gs,'' which is the ultimate g array," Nangong Sheng exined.


    "I see," Zhong Shan nodded.


    In the underworld, the Da An Empire was progressing smoothly. While Nangong Sheng recovered and helped Da An with the arrangement of formations, Lin Xiao and Yan Chongzhi were on the front lines, capturing cities and expanding their territory.


    Six monthster, in Zhong Shan''s study.


    Beside Zhong Shan stood Gu Qianyou, who was examining a report with curiosity. "The Tian family and the Dayan Heavenly Court are fighting?"


    "Hmm, it''s likely that Xing Taidou vited their alliance and colluded with the Wu n," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Should we get involved?"


    "No, our foundation isn''t strong enough yet. We need to proceed steadily and cautiously. A stable and solid development is the right strategy," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Understood," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    Apart from gathering intelligence, Zhong Shan chose not to involve Da An in the actions of the Tian family. He focused on strengthening his own empire and ensuring its stability and growth.

 Chapter 647: The Devil鈥檚 Temptation of Zhong Shan

    <h4>Chapter 647: The Devil''s Temptation of Zhong Shan</h4>


    In the mortal realm, at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, inside Zhong Shan''s study in the Tianyuan Pavilion.


    Zhong Shan was examining some intelligence reports while important advisors like Yi Yan and Shuijing awaited his instructions.


    "Chaos has begun in Shenzhou," Zhong Shan said, setting down the reports with a sigh.


    "Your Majesty, what should we do about the Eastern Great Yong Heavenly Dynasty?" Shui Wuhen asked.


    "Great Yong is essentially a replica of the former Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, with Gu Zhengyi recing Gu Shentong. The systems remainrgely the same, with Taizong King and Zhantian King still in their former roles. Their strength remains formidable," Zhong Shan exined, ncing at his advisors to hear their different perspectives.


    "Not quite, Your Majesty. Great Yong is far inferior to the former Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty!" Shuijing shook his feather fan with a smile.


    "Oh?"


    "Gu Zhengyi has caused excessive bloodshed to elevate his dynasty, even killing his former brother, Gu Xuan. Compared to Gu Shentong, he falls short. While it''s true that chaos has begun, his impatience has generated significant negative effects, which will be detrimental to Great Yong''s future development!" Shuijing said, shaking his fan.


    "Those who gain the way have many helpers, those who lose the way have few. When few help, even rtives abandon you; when many help, the world follows," Zhong Shan summarized.


    "Your Majesty''s words are sinct and insightful. Shuijing is impressed!" Shuijing nodded in agreement.


    "Gu Xuan is dead. Have we found his chief strategist, Fan Yipin?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Not yet," Shuijing replied.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Your Majesty, I have a concern," Yi Yan suddenly said.


    "Oh?"


    "The era of chaos in Shenzhou has begun. The Eastern Great Yong Heavenly Dynasty is continuously waging wars. The Northern Great Li Heavenly Dynasty and the Western Taishui Heavenly Dynasty have both issued promations of opposition, forming alliances to face the cmity. While three heavenly dynasties are vying for dominance, Great Qin remains inactive. Why is Great Qin so quiet?" Yi Yan asked seriously.


    "Great Qin?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, Great Qin''s eerie silence is rming. There is no sign of expansion. Your Majesty, what kind of person is Ying?" Yi Yan asked.


    "Ying? Haha, Ying is a terrifying individual!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Uh?" The advisors were taken aback.


    "Remember, in terms of ambition, no one surpasses Ying," Zhong Shan warned.


    "What about Great Qin''s strength?" Yi Yan asked again.


    "Immeasurable. I would say Ying''s power is likely no less than Gu Shentong''s, and he undoubtedly has many Heavenly Extreme subordinates," Zhong Shan exined.


    "No less than Gu Shentong?"


    The advisors gasped. Gu Shentong was a twelfth-level Heavenly Extreme cultivator, the true number one in the world, and Ying wasparable? That made even Zhong Shan cautious?


    "Your Majesty, do you have any evidence?" Yi Yan asked, frowning.


    "Though there is no concrete evidence, I am certain of it!"


    "Understood," the advisors nodded, taking Zhong Shan''s words to heart. They trusted Zhong Shan''s judgment more than evidence itself. Could Great Qin really be that powerful?


    "The chaos will soon affect us. Our military strength is increasing continuously, but the cultivation levels of youmanders need to improve swiftly. Enter the Hundred-World Cavern as soon as possible!" Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Your Majesty, we have all entered the Hundred-World Cavern. Now, it is Di Xuansha who is undergoing reincarnation inside. When will Your Majesty enter?" Shui Wuhen asked immediately.


    "Oh? Di Xuansha is already inside? Then I will follow after him," Zhong Shan said, slightly surprised.


    "Master!" Bao''er suddenly burst in from outside.


    In the entire Da An, only the empresses could enter Tianyuan Pavilion without an announcement. Yet, the empresses were always respectful and never barged in like this.


    "Huh?"


    "We have a visitor!" Bao''er said with a smile.


    "A visitor?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    "Longhu Dan Sheng!" Bao''er smiled.


    "Longhu Dan Sheng?" Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up. He quickly led everyone out of Tianyuan Pavilion.


    Longhu Dan Sheng was a master of alchemy, known for creating the Leaving Ruin Pill. Although Bao''er could also refine pills, alchemy required not just talent and knowledge but also experience��something Da An greatly needed.


    Outside the main hall, Zhong Shan saw Longhu Dan Sheng waiting in the distance.


    "Longhu Dan Sheng, it''s been a while. What wind has blown you here from Blue me?" Zhong Shan greeted courteously.


    Longhu Dan Sheng, looking somewhat older and with a hint of a bitter smile, replied, "A man from a fallen nation, nothing worth mentioning!"


    "Oh? The Blue me Empire has fallen?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    Although he had anticipated it, this seemed too quick.


    "Yes, it has fallen. s, as you said, it was not meant to be. With the empire''s demise, I nned to wander the world and suddenly thought of you. I hope my visit is not an inconvenience."


    "How could it be? I''m delighted by your visit. Bao''er has longed to learn from you about alchemy!" Zhong Shan said enthusiastically.


    "Emperor Zhong, you tter me. I am honored to be here," Longhu Dan Sheng replied.


    "Since Longhu Dan Sheng is passionate about alchemy, how about heading to the Tai Dan Institute to exchange knowledge with our alchemy elders?" Zhong Shan suggested.


    "Excellent!" Longhu Dan Sheng agreed with satisfaction.


    With this, Zhong Shan managed to retain Longhu Dan Sheng, and he officially took up residence in Da An.


    Thus, the era of alchemy in Da An began to flourish.


    Outside the Hundred-World Cavern.


    Numerous wolf kings were guarding the area. Di Xuansha''s seclusion was a critical event that could not be disturbed.


    When Zhong Shan arrived, the y Bodhisattva and others were already watching from outside.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty!" Everyone bowed respectfully.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "How many reincarnations has Di Xuansha undergone?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Ny-two reincarnations," the y Bodhisattva replied.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "The stronger the will, the more reincarnations one can endure, leading to deeper insights, higher cultivation levels, and greater gains. Di Xuansha has undergone the most reincarnations so far," the y Bodhisattva remarked.


    At that moment, a brilliant light burst from within the Hundred-World Cavern, illuminating the entire valley before fading back to tranquility.


    "The world shifts. This is the ny-third reincarnation," the y Bodhisattva said, taking a deep breath.


    "Is there any difference in the world of reincarnation?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "With each reincarnation, one delves deeper into their own heart," the y Bodhisattva replied.


    "Hmm."


    Zhong Shan waited patiently. Finally, on the ny-fourth reincarnation, Di Xuansha slowly emerged from within.


    Di Xuansha walked out with his eyes closed, tears staining his cheeks. He took a deep breath and disappeared back into seclusion. The wolf kings also dispersed.


    Zhong Shan, after a ritual purification, approached the entrance of the Hundred-World Cavern. Today, Zhong Shan would enter the Hundred-World Cavern to face the trials of reincarnation.


    Outside, Zhong Shan''s close ones stood waiting. The three empresses were particrly anxious.


    At the entrance, Zhong Shan peered inside. It seemed like an infinitely long tunnel, simr to an underwater passage, surrounded by eerie illusions. Zhong Shan stepped inside.


    Gradually, Zhong Shan felt as though the world around him was real. He wandered through bizarre scenes, eventually losing consciousness.


    Zhong Shan entered the world of reincarnation.


    In the first cycle, Zhong Shan became a world-dominating tyrant, feared by all but ending his life in solitude.


    In the second cycle, Zhong Shan was a beggar, scorned by everyone, living with broken limbs and dying in a winter''s snow.


    In the third cycle, Zhong Shan was a schr, entangled in a tragic romance with a ghostly fox, condemned by society, and dying at Huangshan in a fox''s grave.


    In the fourth cycle, Zhong Shan was sessful, excelling in exams, marrying a princess, and securing the borders, living a peaceful life.


    ... The cycles continued, eachsting a day. Zhong Shan endured the myriad forms of human existence and the trials of the world''s furnace.


    Outside, everyone waited patiently.


    Three monthster, almost all the key figures of Da An had gathered. Ny days had passed, meaning ny reincarnations. How much longer could the emperor endure?


    Di Xuansha had alsoe to wait at some point.


    "How many reincarnations has Zhong Shan undergone?" Di Xuansha asked the y Bodhisattva.


    "Ny-three."


    From the fiftieth reincarnation onward, Zhong Shan had encountered a recurring figure, forming a significant emotional knot.


    Wei Kui''er.


    In every life, their identities differed, yet Wei Kui''er always appeared. She was Zhong Shan''s first wife, and he couldn''t let her go. This became the most crucial part of Zhong Shan''s heart-refining process.


    In every life, they fell in love, but each story ended tragically, incredibly tragically.


    Since the fiftieth life, Zhong Shan''s heart had been exceedingly weary, his spirit shattered. However, a deep-seated desire to see Kui''er in the next life kept him going.


    In the ny-third reincarnation, Zhong Shan held the poisoned body of Kui''er, separated by life and death.


    "No����������������������������������������������������"


    Zhong Shan wailed in agony, his eyes bloodshot and weeping tears of blood.


    Outside, Di Xuansha and the others waited patiently for the ny-fourth reincarnation. Suddenly, a thick ck mist shot up into the sky, enveloping the entire valley of the Hundred-World Cavern.


    "What is this?" Zhao Suoxiang frowned.


    "Such heavy resentment! What kind of ordeal is His Majesty facing?" Wang Ku eximed in surprise.


    "This is bad! The Heavenly Demon Pool has produced a Heavenly Demon, and it''s wreaking havoc on His Majesty! And using the Hundred-World Cavern to amplify its chaos!" the y Bodhisattva suddenly shouted in rm.

 Chapter 648:If you give up on her, your heart will be gone

    <h4>Chapter 648:If you give up on her, your heart will be gone</h4>


    "It''s bad, the Heavenly Demon Pool has spawned a heavenly demon, and it''s wreaking havoc on His Majesty! Using the Hundred-World Cavern, it''s maximizing the chaos His Majesty faces!" the y Bodhisattva suddenly eximed in rm.


    "What did you say?" Bao''er urgently asked, her eyes shing with a sharp fierceness as she stared at the y Bodhisattva.


    Everyone turned their attention to the y Bodhisattva.


    "You''re saying that the white jade statue has produced a heavenly demon, and it''s harming Zhong Shan?" Bei Qingsi asked with a frown.


    "Yes, it should be!" the y Bodhisattva replied, frowning in worry.


    "It''s fine. An elementary heavenly demon can''t affect Zhong Shan''s mind," Di Xuansha shook his head dismissively.


    "No, it''s more than that. The Hundred-World Cavern locks in the demon''s intent, directing it all towards the person inside. This means that while His Majesty is facing an elementary heavenly demon, the effect is equivalent to facing an intermediate or even advanced heavenly demon!" the y Bodhisattva said with deep concern.


    "I''m going to wake up Zhong Shan!" Tian Ling''er, the most anxious, almost cried as she spoke.


    "Ling''er, don''t!" Bao''er grabbed Tian Ling''er.


    "Sister, Zhong Shan is in danger, I have to save him!" Tian Ling''er tried to break free from Bao''er''s grip.


    Bao''er''s face was also grim, but she held Tian Ling''er firmly and shook her head.


    "Empress, you cannot. His Majesty is indeed facing a difficult challenge, but he hasn''t encountered any idents yet. He must not be disturbed. If he is, he will surely go mad," the y Bodhisattva quickly interjected.


    "Then what should we do?" All three women looked at the y Bodhisattva.


    "It''s the ny-fourth reincarnation. It''s almost over. If His Majesty can endure until the hundredth reincarnation, he will bepletely safe," the y Bodhisattva said helplessly.


    "A hundred?" Di Xuansha raised an eyebrow.


    Di Xuansha said nothing more, but he knew better than anyone how terrifying it was to endure more than ny reincarnations. Each life was a trial, a heart-wrenching ordeal that could easily lead to eternal damnation with the slightest mistake.


    Di Xuansha''s will was incredibly strong, yet he had only managed to reach the ny-fourth reincarnation. Surviving a hundred was nearly impossible.


    Inside the Hundred-World Cavern, Zhong Shan sat cross-legged, his face pale, his expression constantly shifting, clearly enduring the agony of reincarnation. The unresolved emotional knot in Zhong Shan''s heart made the ordeal even more excruciating.


    Not far from Zhong Shan, a strange and ethereal shadow appeared.


    This shadow was not the heavenly demon the y Bodhisattva mentioned, but a beautiful female phantom. The appearance of this phantom was identical to the white jade statue, also known as the "Heavenly Demon Pool," the foundation of the Hundred-World Cavern array.


    The woman watched Zhong Shan, her eyes gleaming with a mysterious light. Every slight movement, every expression she made, exuded an endless illusion, both eerie and terrifying, surpassing even a heavenly demon''s allure.


    Despite her enchanting presence, her eyes remained pure, like those of a newborn, filled with curiosity as she gazed at Zhong Shan.


    "Kui''er? Is this the hurdle you can never ovee?" the phantom woman mused as she looked at Zhong Shan.


    Inside Zhong Shan''s world of reincarnation, the ny-fourth life.


    In this life, Zhong Shan was an orphan, abandoned in a wooden basin on a river, rescued by a water-fetching monk. Raised with Buddhist teachings, he became a novice monk with exceptional aptitude, possessing a photographic memory. By the age of ten, he had read all the scriptures in the temple. By twelve, he had fullyprehended them and dominated the temple''s debates.


    At thirteen, Zhong Shan began traveling the world, experiencing the myriad forms of life and understanding the concepts of heavenly hearts and the hearts of the people as taught in Buddhist scriptures. He stayed at various monasteries, debating Buddhism with monks and reading countless sutras, deepening his understanding of Buddhism.


    At twenty-five, Zhong Shan was summoned to the capital to meet the emperor and participate in the grand Water and Land Dharma Assembly, where he gave public sermons. Monks from all over the country flocked to hear his teachings.


    By twenty-six, the royal family had fully embraced Buddhism, and the entire nation followed suit, leading to a widespread devotion to Buddhism.


    Under Zhong Shan''s influence, Buddhism reached its peak.


    By the age of thirty, millions of people across the nation were devout Buddhists, and Zhong Shan was known throughout thend.


    At forty, Zhong Shan held another grand sermon, attracting hundreds of thousands of monks. During the sermon, heavenly flowers rained down, golden lotuses sprouted from the earth, and the air was filled with Buddhist chants, purifying the minds of all present.


    He was revered as the foremost monk, the highest teacher of Buddhism.


    At fifty, Zhong Shan founded his own sect, epting ten disciples, each with extraordinary Buddhist qualities, capable of enlightening thousands. He shone with golden light, worshipped by countless people.


    At sixty, the golden light around Zhong Shan grew even more intense. By seventy, the light faded, returning to a state of purity, and his body emitted an ancient sandalwood fragrance.


    Everyone knew that with his profound Buddhist nature, Zhong Shan was destined to enter the Great Thunderp Temple of the Western Pure Land and attain Buddhahood in a golden body. Some even rumored that Zhong Shan was the reincarnation of a Buddha, given his extraordinary Buddhist nature.


    Regardless of the truth, Zhong Shan was deeply respected as a living Buddha and the most revered person in thend.


    At eighty, as an elderly monk, Zhong Shan had seen through the vicissitudes of life and was only one step away from attaining Buddhahood.


    The ny-fourth reincarnation would not be easy to pass.


    At eighty, the revered old monk inexplicably fell in love with a sixteen-year-old pilgrim named Wei Kui''er.


    It seemed as though fate had arranged this, and the elderly monk, struggling on his path, fell deeply in love with Wei Kui''er at first sight.


    The first precept of Buddhism is to abstain from sensual desire!


    An eighty-year-old falling in love with a sixteen-year-old girl? The world''s most respected monk breaking his vows of celibacy? This stirred the hearts of people everywhere.


    "Master, no, you''re about to be a Buddha! You can''t destroy your foundation for a woman!" One disciple knelt and cried, trying to stop him.


    "Master, you are the exemr of Buddhism in the world, a living Buddha. You can''t destroy your reputation for a woman!"


    "Master, your dreams can''t be ruined here. This impossible situation can''t ruin your legacy!"


    Initially, only the ten disciples knew, but no matter how much they pleaded, they couldn''t stop Zhong Shan.


    "Get out, get out...!"


    The elderly Zhong Shan, tears of heartbreak streaming down his face, shouted at his disciples. The ten disciples were unwilling, but Zhong Shan didn''t hesitate to kick and beat them to clear his path.


    The depth of his feelings made it impossible for Zhong Shan to let go.


    The ten disciples couldn''t stop him, and the news spread like wildfire.


    Hearing that the revered monk was entangled by love, the world was shocked. It couldn''t be true��who would dare nder the saintly monk? The world was in uproar, but once they understood the truth, everyone was stunned.


    The saintly monk wanted to renounce his vows and marry a young girl?


    As absurd as it seemed, it was a fact. Countless monks from all directions came to dissuade the saintly monk.


    But Zhong Shan seemed possessed, refusing to continue his Buddhist practice.


    The saintly monk renouncing his vows caused great sorrow across thend, with people spitting in disgust. No one wanted to ept the copse of their idol, not even Wei Kui''er''s parents. They hired servants to beat Zhong Shan, trying to dissuade him from his decision.


    The revered monk, once respected by all, had fallen to such a state, all for the sake of love. People''s hearts ached, and the saintly monk Zhong Shan felt as if his heart was being torn apart.


    "Give up, please, give up," Wei Kui''er sobbed softly to Zhong Shan.


    "No, I don''t want to give up! I can''t give up!" Zhong Shan insisted resolutely.


    "Kill that wretched girl; she''s a demon reincarnate here to ruin the saintly monk!" a sudden voice shouted.


    Wei Kui''er was beaten to death by the crowd surrounding her.


    "No����������������������������������������������������"


    Holding Wei Kui''er''s lifeless body, Zhong Shan wept bitterly. "Heavens, what have I done to deserve this?"


    At that moment, a celestial-looking woman appeared before Saintly Monk Zhong Shan. The woman was extraordinarily beautiful, the phantom from the Heavenly Demon Pool.


    "Give up. If you give up, you can return to how things were. You will regain everything. Just give up!" the phantom woman urged.


    "No, I won''t give up. I can''t give up!" the saintly monk cried, tears streaming down his face as he held Wei Kui''er.


    In the end, the saintly monk did not let go of Wei Kui''er''s body. Instead, he carried her to the edge of a cliff, and in front of countless onlookers, he stubbornly clung to her as he leapt off the cliff.


    With his beloved dead, Zhong Shan''s heart and soul were shattered for the ny-fourth time. His resentment soared to the heavens.


    "What a fool. Would it kill you to give up once?" the phantom woman mused as she looked at Zhong Shan''s body below, her eyes filled with curiosity.


    This was the ny-fourth time. Why? Why couldn''t he let go?


    The phantom woman grew more curious, more intrigued.


    In the ny-fifth cycle.


    "Hmm? Finally, I''ve uncovered his memories? Is this his own world?" the phantom woman said excitedly.


    In the ny-fifth cycle, it wasn''t an illusory world but Zhong Shan''s memories. From Earth, Zhong Shan came to this world, seeking immortality but being refused entry.


    Proud and ambitious, Zhong Shan started as a mortal, exploring the path to immortality from mortal cultivation techniques. He built a merchant association and adopted sons. Everything reyed from Zhong Shan''s memories, everything starting anew.


    As in his memories, Zhong Shan met the beautiful Wei Kui''er and sessfully made her his wife.


    "Husband, the weather is so nice today. It''s been a while since we went to Cuihu Lake for an outing. This time, I''ll catch a big crab and make crab soup for you."


    "Alright, catch a big crab. This time, let''s go as a family. Bring your brother along."


    "Yes, let''s take the second brother. The third brother isn''t around, otherwise, he''s the best at catching crabs."


    "Ha ha, ha ha, husband, husband,e quickly, there''s a huge crab here!"


    "I''ming, Kui''er, wait for me. I''ll get a big."


    By theke, Kui''er rolled up her trousers and used a fork to pin down a big crab. Zhong Shan ran over from a distance.


    Suddenly, the scene changed. In the middle of them, a group of people descended from the sky.


    "Ha ha, we found her, the girl born on a yin year, yin month, and yin day,"ughed the leader, a man in golden robes. A seam on his forehead suggested the presence of a third eye.


    The man extended his hand towards Kui''er, grabbing at the air.


    "Boom��������������������������������"


    Blood rained down, and Kui''er''s delicate body exploded into fragments, her flesh scattering. In thepression of the golden-robed man''s energy, the remnants of Kui''er coalesced into a blue phantom, which the man captured and stored in a ck banner in his other hand.


    "No��������������������������������"


    Zhong Shan''s heart shattered, and he cried out in anguish, his deep resentment surging skyward.


    At that moment, the scene abruptly changed. The group led by the Heavenly Prince of Rift vanished, leaving only fragments on the ground. It was as if the phantom woman could no longer bear to see Zhong Shan''s torment, as if she too felt her heart shattering along with Zhong Shan''s.


    "Give up. If you give up, you can have everything. You can have the whole world, you can achieve immortality, you can possess..." the phantom woman tried to persuade Zhong Shan, simultaneously showing him visions of the unrivaled power of the future Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Maybe this was the phantom woman''s world. Although Zhong Shan had not awakened, it didn''t negate the phantom woman''s foresight into the future.


    Despite everything, Zhong Shan shook his head. His body trembled as he picked up a fragment of Wei Kui''er''s clothing and pressed it to his chest.


    "Why are you so stubborn? She''s dead. Just give up. Must you let your heart be shattered each time? How strong is your heart? How many more times can it endure being broken?" the phantom woman cried out to Zhong Shan.


    Seeing the phantom woman''s genuine concern, Zhong Shan looked deeply at her and said, "I will never give up!"


    "Never give up? Don''t you realize that not giving up on her will be your greatest w? As long as you don''t give up, your heart will keep hurting until you die. This w will be the easiest target for your enemies," the phantom woman continued to advise Zhong Shan.


    "Thinking of her makes my heart ache, it really hurts. But if I give up on her, my heart will cease to exist," Zhong Shan said sorrowfully.


    If I give up on her, my heart will cease to exist!


    The phantom woman was stunned, contemting the meaning of Zhong Shan''s words. She didn''t understand and couldn''t see through it. Her feelings toward Zhong Shan grew moreplex.


    In that moment, Zhong Shan seemed to be much clearer, gaining increasing rity. Suddenly, heprehended the entirety of the hundred reincarnations, understanding all the causes and effects.


    Gazing at the phantom woman before him, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said, "Thank you for trying to help me. Thank you for constantly urging me to give up, trying to remove my w. But I truly can''t give up. Thinking of her reminds me that I still exist. If I give up on her, I would no longer be myself. You''ve helped me understand myself even better. Thank you!"


    "No, no need to thank me. But if you don''t give up, she will be your greatest inner demon and your biggest w. What will you do in the future?" the phantom woman asked.


    "Inner demon? w? If she is my inner demon, I am willing to let my heart harbor a demon. If she is my w, I am willing to live this wed life. If my heart dies, everything ends. w? So what if it''s a w? I am willing to keep this greatest w!" Zhong Shan said, a smile of infatuation spreading across his face.


    Ignoring the phantom woman, Zhong Shan stood up with a sorrowful heart and walked towards the exit of the Hundred-World Cavern.


    "Where are you going?" the phantom woman called out.


    But Zhong Shan kept walking, like a wooden man, continuing forward, seemingly deaf to any sound.


    "You stubborn man!" the phantom woman stamped her foot and followed after him.

 Chapter 649: The Source of All Evil

    <h4>Chapter 649: The Source of All Evil</h4>


    Outside, everyone was counting Zhong Shan''s cycles. The ny-fifth reincarnation, surpassing Di Xuansha''s ny-four reincarnations, was a significant feat. Seeing the overwhelming resentment, everyone knew how arduous Zhong Shan''s journey through reincarnation had been.


    The three empresses clenched their fists, never taking their eyes off the entrance to the Hundred-World Cavern.


    "Please, let him be safe. Please, let him be safe," the three women silently prayed.


    Suddenly, the sky filled with resentment dispersed, vanishing as mysteriously as it had appeared.


    "y Bodhisattva, what''s happening?" Bao''er immediately asked.


    "I don''t know, but it looks like His Majesty might have defeated the heavenly demon," the y Bodhisattva whispered.


    "Might? What about the other twenty percent? What could the other twenty percent be?" Bao''er pressed.


    The y Bodhisattva remained silent, and everyone felt a sense of foreboding.


    "Sister, I need to go in. Let me go in!" Tian Ling''er pleaded, on the verge of tears.


    Just then, a wooden-faced Zhong Shan slowly emerged from the cavern.


    "Zhong Shan! It''s Zhong Shan! He''s okay!" Tian Ling''er eximed joyfully.


    "Your Majesty!" the Da An officials called out.


    Zhong Shan seemed oblivious to their calls, stepping out of the Hundred-World Cavern, and took to the sky.


    "Huh?" Everyone was puzzled by His Majesty''s behavior.


    "Hey, wait for me! Where are you going?" The voice of the phantom woman echoed from within the cavern.


    As Zhong Shan ascended into the sky, the phantom woman reached the entrance. Strangely, despite her presence and loud shout, no one noticed her or heard her voice.


    Everyone''s attention was on Zhong Shan, but it was still odd that no one sensed her.


    The reality was as it seemed. The woman stepped out of the Hundred-World Cavern, but those around her could neither see nor hear her. It was as if she were invisible.


    Zhong Shan flew upwards, with the phantom woman following closely behind, but she remained unnoticed by everyone.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s unusual behavior, everyone expressed their surprise and followed him.


    The Hundred-World Cavern valley was heavily guarded, with strict protocols for anyone entering or leaving. But who would dare to stop Zhong Shan? He was allowed to fly out of the valley without question.


    Zhong Shan continued to fly, seemingly wooden and detached. No one dared to intercept him. This was Da An, the entire realm was Zhong Shan''s, who would dare to block his path?


    After flying for the duration of an incense stick, Zhong Shan arrived at a deste mountain area.


    This was a silent, barren mountain, yet it seemed like the most important forbidden zone in Da An, with numerous guards stationed outside. Inside, there was nothing but mountains and a smallke.


    Theke, named Cuihu, was filled with crabs and had no special features. However, the level of security rivaled that of the Longevity Hall in the royal pce.


    This was the ce where Wei Kui''er had died.


    Zhong Shan descended from the sky.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty! Long live Your Majesty!" The guards respectfully bowed, allowing Zhong Shan to walk in step by step.


    Outside, the Da An officials alsonded.


    Seeing Zhong Shan walk in with a wooden expression, everyone was stunned. Zhao Suoxiang was about to step forward.


    "Don''t move, no one should disturb the master!" Bao''er suddenlymanded.


    Bao''er stopped everyone. This ce was Zhong Shan''s heart''s grave, his deepest scar. No one was allowed to step inside, not even Zhong Shan himself dared toe here.


    Others may not know this ce, but Bao''er knew well. This was Wei Kui''er''s resting ce, the reverse scale of the dragon.


    Why had her master suddenlye here?


    With Bao''er''s intervention, everyone waited outside, while the phantom woman followed Zhong Shan inside.


    "This is where Wei Kui''er died?" the phantom woman mused to herself.


    Not far from Cuihu Lake was an unremarkable mound of earth, where Zhong Shan''s subordinates had built a small grave after he was knocked unconscious. This was the grave of Zhong Shan''s heart.


    Standing before the small mound, Zhong Shan closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. He recalled many memories, and finally, as a tear rolled down his cheek, he opened his eyes.


    Zhong Shan walked forward, removing the weeds from the small grave and tidying it up.


    Finally, Zhong Shan took out a stone tablet and ced it in front of the grave. Using his finger as a de, he inscribed:


    <strong>"The Grave of My Beloved Wife Wei Kui''er"</strong>


    He then gathered flowers from around and ced them in front of the gravestone.


    A gentle breeze blew Zhong Shan''s robes, the cool air flowing around. Zhong Shan took a deep breath, his expression bing much calmer. He exhaled deeply, as if he had gained some profound insight.


    The phantom woman beside him showed a look of obvious astonishment.


    What had happened to Zhong Shan? Why did he now exude a different aura? It seemed as if he had let go of his longing for Wei Kui''er, but from his previous determination, it was clear Zhong Shan wouldn''t give up.


    What was this aura? A sense of liberation? A lightness as if all shadows had been dispelled? What was this?


    The white jade statue brewed the heavenly demon, and the phantom woman was the spirit of the white jade statue, capable of creating the heavenly demon. The heavenly demon could evoke the most subtle emotions in people, an innate understanding. Yet, the phantom woman couldn''tprehend Zhong Shan''s emotions at this moment.


    What was going on?


    The phantom woman didn''t understand, but Bao''er did. She looked at the gravestone with a face full of admiration. Zhong Shan''s feelings had transcended, from ''little love'' to ''great love,'' a deep love for Wei Kui''er.


    This great love was truer than anything. When love reached its depths, it broke through and transformed into great love!


    "Kui''er, today I finally came to see you," Zhong Shan exhaled, his face free of sorrow, as if his beloved were still alive.


    "Bao''er, Ling''er, Qingsi,e here!" Zhong Shan called out, taking a deep breath.


    Hearing Zhong Shan, Bao''er immediately pulled Ling''er and Bei Qingsi over.


    Standing behind Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er wanted to say something, but Bao''er pulled her back. Tian Ling''er looked at Bao''er in confusion, but Bao''er shook her head, signaling her not to speak.


    "This is Bao''er, Ling''er, and Qingsi. Qianyou isn''t here today. I brought them to see you!" Zhong Shan said, looking at the gravestone with a glint of affection in his eyes.


    "Sister, we will take good care of the master!" Bao''er stepped forward and said.


    The other two women followed Bao''er, looking at the gravestone.


    Although Ling''er didn''t fully understand, she knew it wasn''t the time to speak.


    Zhong Shan nodded in satisfaction, sighing slightly as he looked at the three women. "I made you all worry."


    "It''s nothing, as long as you''re alright!" Bao''er said affectionately.


    "Hmm!" Bei Qingsi, though rarely speaking, had emotions in her eyes that spoke volumes.


    "Zhong Shan, are you really okay?" Tian Ling''er asked worriedly.


    "I''m fine. You all go back and rest. I need to return to the Hundred-World Cavern," Zhong Shan said.


    "Uh?" The three women were taken aback.


    Not just them, but even Di Xuansha, the y Bodhisattva, and others were stunned. Why was the Emperor returning to the Hundred-World Cavern? Was he nning toplete the remaining five cycles of reincarnation? Could that even be possible?


    Nobody stopped Zhong Shan as he headed back to the Hundred-World Cavern, followed by the phantom woman.


    The phantom woman observed everything, from start to finish, yet she couldn''t understand Zhong Shan. For the first time, she felt baffled by him. What did he mean by all this? Who exactly was he?


    Inside the Hundred-World Cavern.


    "You, what did you mean just now? You said you wouldn''t give up, but did you? Did you give up?" the phantom woman asked, her tone genuinely confused.


    "I''ve already said it, I will never forget Kui''er in this life," Zhong Shan replied solemnly.


    "But..." The phantom woman looked at Zhong Shan, clearly not understanding.


    "Human emotions are quite mysterious. Perhaps you will understand someday. But let''s not talk about that now. Let''s talk about you. Who are you?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at the phantom woman.


    As Zhong Shan looked at her, a strange light flickered in his eyes. It was bizarre that no one else could see her. Moreover, every movement, every expression she made carried an inexplicable allure. If it weren''t for his spiritual elevation due to Kui''er, even his strong will might have sumbed.


    When he first entered, he had unknowingly lost himself, entering the world of reincarnation. But now, after his spiritual elevation, he saw through much more. Entering the Hundred-World Cavern again, the previous illusions no longer affected him. The cavern had lost its hold over him and could no longer force him into reincarnation.


    His spiritual state had unknowingly reached a transcendent level.


    "Me? I don''t know who I am!" the phantom woman shook her head, a look of confusion shing in her eyes.


    "Oh?"


    "I remember being called the ''Source of All Evil''," the phantom woman recalled, frowning.


    "The Source of All Evil?" Zhong Shan''s expression turned peculiar.


    "Yes, that was before I could take shape, when I was just in my original form," the phantom woman said.


    "Oh? Your original form? The white jade statue?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Hmm."


    "I can''t stray far from my original form. When I went out with you earlier, I felt a lot of my energy draining away. I almost copsed!" the phantom woman remembered.


    "Why can''t others see you, only I can?"


    "I don''t know either!"


    "When did you take this form?"


    "When the Hundred-World Cavern was formed."


    "Oh?"


    "My original form absorbs countless resentments, evil qi, emotions, and other things from the world. It also purifies and releases heavenly demon energy into the surroundings, maintaining a bnce. But when the Hundred-World Cavern was formed, my original form only absorbed and didn''t release. It''s as if the Hundred-World Cavern has a power that binds me, preventing my energy from leaking," the phantom woman exined.


    "Oh? So, as long as the Hundred-World Cavern exists, you can continue to grow?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    "Hmm!" The phantom woman nodded.


    "Who called you the ''Source of All Evil'' then?"


    "I don''t know. It''s something my original form instinctively recorded. It seems this name was used a lot. Some people also called me the Heavenly Demon Pool, but I don''t like either name."

 Chapter 650:News from Yinglan

    <h4>Chapter 650:News from Yinn</h4>


    "The name ''Source of All Evil'' seems to be used a lot. Some also call me the Heavenly Demon Pool, but I don''t like either," the phantom woman said helplessly.


    "Why not choose a name for yourself?" Zhong Shan suggested with a smile.


    "A name for myself?" The phantom woman thought for a long time but couldn''te up with anything, as if naming was a very difficult task.


    "How about I give you one?" Zhong Shan offered with a smile.


    "Sure, you suggest one, and I''ll consider it!" the phantom woman replied, smiling.


    "You can create heavenly demons, and these demons focus on illusions and allure. ''Ji'' is a term for a beautiful woman. How about ''Huan Ji''?" Zhong Shan proposed after some thought.


    The phantom woman thought for a moment, and her eyes gradually brightened.


    "Huan Ji it is!" she eximed excitedly.


    "What are your ns for the future?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I don''t know! But, please don''t dismantle the Hundred-World Cavern. Without it, I might revert to my original form!" Huan Ji said pitifully.


    "Don''t worry, the Hundred-World Cavern will never be dismantled. It will be your residence from now on," Zhong Shan assured her with a smile.


    "Thank you!" Huan Ji smiled happily, but there was a trace of cunning in her expression that was hard to notice.


    "But, people will continue toe here for the hundred reincarnations. Take care of them," Zhong Shan said.


    "Don''t worry. Since you''re keeping the Hundred-World Cavern, I''ll help your subordinates improve their mindsets!" Huan Ji replied confidently.


    "Good."


    Zhong Shan left the Hundred-World Cavern, reassured his court officials, and entered seclusion.


    This breakthrough of the mind was greatly beneficial for Zhong Shan. Most astonishingly, due to the elevation of his state of mind, he broke through to the second stage of the Emperor''s Extreme Realm.


    Upon emerging from seclusion, Zhong Shan himself could hardly believe that his state of mind had reached such a formidable level. His cultivation had been elevated purely through the enhancement of his spiritual state.


    Zhong Shan had two bodies: his main body with an rmingly poor root quality, and his shadow body with exceptionally good root quality. Whenever his main body broke through, his shadow body immediately followed. Without the limitations of his main body, his shadow body would have long since be immortal.


    Five yearster, in the underworld, Changjing, Zhong Shan''s study.


    Lin Xiao, Yan Chongzhi, Mr. Corpse, and others stood silently on either side.


    The two great empires had been pacified by Lin Xiao and Yan Chongzhi! The nation was stable. Da An had firmly established its powerful position among the empires of the underworld.


    "Your Majesty, the battle between the Tian family and the Dayan Heavenly Dynasty seems to be nearing its end," Lin Xiao reported.


    "No," Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Oh?"


    "The Dayan Heavenly Dynasty is already history, three months ago!" Zhong Shan said with a deep breath.


    "The Dayan Heavenly Dynasty has fallen?" everyone eximed in surprise.


    "This is thetest intelligence. The Tian family forces descended upon the capital of the Dayan Heavenly Dynasty,unching a powerful assault. Within three days, they shattered the capital, destroyed the imperial court, dispersed the heavenly fate, and caused theplete copse of the Dayan Heavenly Dynasty," Zhong Shan said, deeply furrowing his brows.


    "A heavenly dynasty, one of the two in the underworld, destroyed by a single family? This is..." Lin Xiao said in disbelief.


    "The Tian family is incredibly powerful, with extremely deep roots. They have existed for countless millennia. They generally do not participate in the struggle for dominion over the world, but once they do, their power is overwhelming," Yan Chongzhi said, frowning.


    "Such a vast empire, and it has been destroyed just like that?" Lin Xiao took a deep breath.


    "Although the Dayan Heavenly Dynasty was a heavenly dynasty, its foundation was not deep. Even Xing Tai Dou''s cultivation was not invincible. Nangong Sheng once said that Xing Tai Dou was at the ninth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm. Naturally, the Dayan Heavenly Dynasty couldn''tpare with the numerous heavenly dynasties of the Yangjian," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "The Tian family is indeed terrifying," Lin Xiao frowned.


    "The Tian family has absolute control in the underworld. They are the strongest, but they usually don''t make enemies with heavenly dynasties or holynds unless someone is colluding with people from the great thousand world. They generally don''t get involved in the struggle for supremacy," Yan Chongzhi reflected.


    "But such a behemoth must be feared by countless people," Zhong Shan noted.


    "Yes, everyone fears them, but no one dares to provoke them. No one knows the depth of the Tian family''s power. Any major force that dares to sh with the Tian family has been wiped out. This time, the Dayan Heavenly Dynasty is no exception. A powerful heavenly dynasty was wiped out in just five years," Yan Chongzhi said with a wry smile.


    "The overseers of the small thousand world? Hmph!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s expression, Yan Chongzhi''s eyelid twitched, showing a trace of horror. He could see the ambition in Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    The Tian family? His Majesty has grand ambitions!


    "Your Majesty, did Xing Tai Dou die?" Lin Xiao asked.


    "No, Xing Tai Dou is still at the Heavenly Extreme Realm. Killing him is difficult. He managed to escape," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Escaped?" Lin Xiao found it strange.


    "Yes, he fled to the Immortal Realm. The Tian family has even issued a statement demanding the Immortal Realm hand over Xing Tai Dou, or they will be used of colluding with the great thousand world," Zhong Shan said with a cold smile.


    "used? Does the Tian family really think they own the small thousand world?" Lin Xiao was indignant.


    "They have the power, so they can make the rules," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes," Lin Xiao nodded.


    Indeed, if you have the power, you can dictate terms. This is thew of the strong, and the Tian family is strong.


    At that moment, a guard suddenly rushed in.


    Zhong Shan''s face darkened. In Da An, it was a strict rule that no one could interrupt Zhong Shan during a meeting except for Gu Qianyou.


    "Scoundrel! Do you not know that we are discussing state affairs? Who gave you the courage?" Yan Chongzhi barked.


    "Reporting to Your Majesty, someone holds the Nine Dragons Order and requests an audience with Your Majesty. I had no choice. Please forgive me, Your Majesty!" the guard knelt immediately.


    The Nine Dragons Order��seeing it was like seeing the Emperor himself. Who would dare to neglect it?


    "The Nine Dragons Order? Bring them in!" Zhong Shan immediately ordered.


    The Nine Dragons Order? Who in the underworld has the Nine Dragons Order?


    "Your Majesty����������������������������������������������������"


    A voice full of urgency called out as the ck-robed man was ushered in and immediately knelt.


    Yan Chongzhi had a peculiar expression. Who is this now?


    "Tai Zhong, what are you doing?" Zhong Shan quickly moved to help the ck-robed man up.


    The ck-robed man was Wei Taizhong, the chief steward of the Da An Imperial Court. He had apanied Zhong Shan to the underworld before and had gone on his own to find Yinn.


    At this moment, Wei Taizhong looked exhausted and haggard, his hair turned a strange red. His face was filled with sorrow.


    "Your Majesty, this old servant won''t rise unless Your Majesty saves Yinn!" Wei Taizhong knelt, refusing to get up.


    "You found Yinn?" Zhong Shan''s face lit up with joy.


    "Yes, Yinn is imprisoned. I was unable to rescue her. Please, Your Majesty, save her!" Wei Taizhong pleaded sorrowfully.


    "Bang!"


    Zhong Shan''s palm smashed down, shattering the desk into pieces.


    "Who? Who dares imprison Yinn?" Zhong Shan roared, his eyes emitting a fierce and murderous aura.


    "It''s the Tian family, from the Ten Thousand Zhang Hell," Wei Taizhong replied.


    Upon hearing Wei Taizhong''s words, Yan Chongzhi''s eyelid twitched, his eyes showing an intense and strange expression. The Tian family? Are you asking His Majesty to challenge the Tian family now?


    "Get up and exin slowly," Zhong Shan immediatelymanded.


    "No, I won''t rise unless Your Majesty agrees to save Yinn!" Wei Taizhong stubbornly insisted.


    "Foolish words. Now that we know where Yinn is, how could I not rescue her? Get up and exin everything clearly," Zhong Shan said, ring at him.


    "Yes!" Wei Taizhong stood up, his face showing a look of gratitude.


    Wei Yinn was Wei Taizhong''s only family in this lifetime.


    "Someone, summon the Director of the Yitian Bureau! Also, Yin Luoyue and Jiu Lao!" Zhong Shan called to the guard outside.


    "Yes!" a guard immediately responded.


    "What''s going on? How is Yinn in the Tian family? How did you get this information?" Zhong Shan asked, staring at Wei Taizhong.


    "Over the years, I''ve had some fortuitous encounters and made connections with some powerful individuals. While searching for Yinn, I was fortunate to meet a ghost general who knew about her," Wei Taizhong exined.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan showed a hint of doubt.


    "At first, I didn''t believe him, but when I saw this record, I had to believe it. Your Majesty, this is the record," Wei Taizhong said, taking out a memory crystal.


    Zhong Shan eagerly activated the crystal. Inside, a white-d man was seen holding a small bottle, sucking Yinn''s ghost into it. The man had a ''Tian'' character embroidered on his chest, indicating he was from the Tian family.


    "The Tian family?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Initially, I had doubts, but I went to the Ten Thousand Zhang Hell and found this man. He was indeed from the Tian family. He was collecting ghosts, including Yinn''s, and sending them to the Tian family. The ghosts were eventually sent to the Tian family''s ''Jingbo Pool'' by their master. I tried to infiltrate but couldn''t get in. When I confronted the Tian family members, they ignored me. Your Majesty, Yinn is in the ''Jingbo Pool.'' You must save her!" Wei Taizhong pleaded.


    "What is the ''Jingbo Pool''?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I don''t know! I even captured a Tian family member to interrogate him, but he didn''t know either," Wei Taizhong shook his head.


    Zhong Shan''s brows furrowed deeply.


    "Your Majesty, you''re not really going, are you?" Yan Chongzhi asked anxiously.


    "Since Yinn is in the Tian family, I must go!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "But, Your Majesty, the ''Jingbo Pool'' is so secret that even Tian family members don''t know about it. The Tian family is unlikely to divulge its location. If you force your way in, it will be dangerous. I missed the encounter with the three great sorcerers at the Sinking Blood Sea, but I''m certain that the Tian family is even more dangerous. Please reconsider!" Yan Chongzhi urged.


    "No need to say more. If Yinn is there, I will go!" Zhong Shan''s tone was resolute.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s determination, Yan Chongzhi could only sigh and step aside.


    After a short wait, Nangong Sheng, Jiu Lao, and Yin Luoyue were brought in.


    Reincarnation passages, the ultimate reincarnation passage��Zhong Shan''s survival was a point of great curiosity for Yin Luoyue. After a period of recovery, he hurried to the Da An Imperial Court, filled with countless thoughts. Should the tiger n fully support the Da An Imperial Court now that the treaty with Gu Qianyou had been renewed? Is the Da An Imperial Court worth our dedication? Yin Luoyue needed to assess.


    But when Yin Luoyue arrived at Da An, he was shocked to see Nangong Sheng as a minister there. His mouth hung open for a long time. Nangong Sheng? A minister of Da An? What''s going on? Am I dreaming?

 Chapter 651: The Heritage of the Tian Family

    <h4>Chapter 651: The Heritage of the Tian Family</h4>


    Upon learning that the formidable celestial being Nangong Sheng had be a subordinate of the Great Zhen Empire, Yin Luori''s pride waspletely shattered. Though he had unified the Yin Realm''s Tiger n and held immense power as a celestial supreme, what did it matter? Even celestial beings were now bowing down. How could he still hold his head high?


    Feeling somewhat lost, Yin Luori decided to temporarily reside in the Great Zhen Empire.


    Zhongshan, an Emperor Extreme Realm cultivator? Yin Luori had never truly seen him as such. The Wu n, whom Yin Luori couldn''t defeat, were all in by Zhongshan. Could that really just be the Emperor Extreme Realm?


    Over the years, as Yin Luori interacted with Zhongshan, he gradually came to respect him. Of course, Zhongshan''s deliberate guidance yed a significant role in this change.


    When the three of them gathered in the study, they all looked at Zhongshan with curiosity.


    "Your Majesty summoned us, what is the matter?" Nangong Sheng asked.


    "It''s about the Tian Family," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "Oh?" The three of them were slightly taken aback, especially the Old Drunkard, who frowned deeply.


    "Why are you asking about the Tian Family?" the Old Drunkard immediately inquired.


    "One of my rtives was taken by the Tian Family to the ''Jingbo Pool.'' You were once part of the Tian Family; do you know about this?" Zhongshan asked.


    Upon hearing the name Jingbo Pool, the Old Drunkard''s face changed drastically. A look of bitterness appeared on his face as he thought for a moment and said, "Your Majesty, we cannot afford to provoke the Tian Family right now, truly."


    "Oh?" A hint of stubbornness appeared on Zhongshan''s face.


    "Let me tell you about the Tian Family," the Old Drunkard said after some thought.


    "Alright."


    "The Tian Family is located in the depths of a hellish abyss, where millions of spirits gather every day from all directions. These spirits, devoid of any intelligence, seem to instinctively know this ce, hoping to reverse the path of the Yellow Springs and reincarnate into the living world. But how can one reverse the Yellow Springs? Most of them vanish into thin air along the way, though asionally, a Ghost King with intelligence is born and departs." The Old Drunkard described the hellish scene.


    "Hmm."


    "The Tian Family resides in this ghostly territory, facing endless spirits every day. They have stood strong for tens of thousands of years. The Tian Family is divided into five branches, each centered around a peak. Do you know what the five branches are?" the Old Drunkard asked with a bitter smile.


    "What are the five branches?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Destiny, Fortune, Feng Shui, umting Yin Virtue, and Fame," the Old Drunkard exined.


    "Destiny, Fortune, Feng Shui, umting Yin Virtue, and Fame? The Tian Family has a grandiose ambition," Lin Xiao remarked in surprise.


    "The five peaks correspond to the Destiny Peak, Fortune Peak, Feng Shui Peak, Yin Virtue Peak, and Fame Peak. The head of the Destiny Peak is the family head, currently Tian Jizi," the Old Drunkard said.


    "Oh? Tian Jizi?"


    "The family head''s original name was Tian Ji. After bing the head, ording to family rules, he added ''Zi'' to his name," the Old Drunkard exined.


    Tian Jizi? Zhongshan''s brows furrowed deeply. Zhongshan''s master, Tian Xingzi, was the head of the Tian Family in the living world?


    "You practice the path of fortune, could it be that you were once a disciple of the Fortune Branch of the Tian Family?" Zhongshan asked, frowning.


    "Yes, the ancestor who taught me the path of fortune was the head of the Fortune Peak," the Old Drunkard said.


    "And where is he now?" Zhongshan''s expression grew more serious.


    "He''s dead!" the Old Drunkard said.


    "Uh?"


    "I was born with poor aptitude. Otherwise, why would Tian Jizi want me to pass on the path of fortune to other disciples? You must know, the path of fortune can only be learned by one person. If I passed it on, I would surely die. I may have had low talent, but I couldn''t just sit and wait to die. The ancestor who taught me this power made me the new peak master. Just because of my poor aptitude, I was stripped of my position and hunted across the world?" As the Old Drunkard spoke, his face flushed with anger.


    "Are the heads of the five peaks all very powerful?" Zhongshan asked.


    "I''ve only met the head of Destiny Peak; I haven''t seen the others. But they should be very strong. The ancestor who taught me fortune cultivation was at the Celestial Extreme Realm. The other four peaks should also be at the Celestial Extreme Realm," the Old Drunkard replied after some thought.


    "Five branches? The Fortune Branch cultivates fortune, but what about the other four branches?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Besides the Destiny Branch, which is led by the family head, the other branches naturally cultivate different paths," the Old Drunkard exined.


    "They all cultivate different paths? So they cultivate Feng Shui, Yin Virtue, and Fame as well?" Lin Xiao asked in surprise.


    "Hmm!"


    "That''s odd. Cultivating Feng Shui and Yin Virtue is understandable, but how does one cultivate Fame?" Lin Xiao doubted.


    "The Tian Family secretly controls several empires, naturally gathering fortune," the Old Drunkard replied nonchntly.


    "The Tian Family has such a big appetite and deep foundation!" Yin Luori eximed in admiration.


    "Hmph!" The Old Drunkard showed a hint of disdain.


    "Hmm?" Yin Luori frowned.


    "That''s just the surface strength of the Tian Family," the Old Drunkard shook his head.


    "Surface strength?" Yin Luori asked incredulously.


    "The true strength of the Tian Family lies in the so-called ''Jingbo Pool.'' I don''t know what''s inside, but the ancestor who taught me fortune often yearned for it. It''s said that fifty thousand years ago, the Tian Family faced a cataclysm. The three great celestial empires of the Yin Realm descended, and in the critical moment, an ancestor from the Jingbo Pool emerged and single-handedly quelled the disaster of the three empires," the Old Drunkard asserted.


    Everyone listened in astonishment. Could the Tian Family''s foundation really be that deep?


    "So, Your Majesty, it''s impossible to forcibly break into the Tian Family," the Old Drunkard shook his head.


    "Do you know about the Tian Family in the living world?" Zhongshan asked.


    "There''s a Tian Family in the living world?" The Old Drunkard was surprised.


    Zhongshan felt a bit frustrated. He originally wanted to ask if the ''Tian Token'' given by his master would be of any use, but now it seemed pointless. The Old Drunkard obviously didn''t know.


    "Maybe there is a Tian Family in the living world too," the Old Drunkard thought.


    "Uh?" Zhongshan was puzzled. What does he mean by ''maybe''?


    "Because of the Tian Family''s mission!" the Old Drunkard exined.


    "What mission?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "The ancestor who taught me fortune once said that the Tian Family''s mission is to protect this small thousand world. He said I could betray the Tian Family but not the small thousand world. Even if I leave the Tian Family, I must keep an eye on the world''s great events and eliminate invaders from the great thousand world whenever possible. With such a strange ancestralmand and mission, perhaps there really is a Tian Family in the living world," the Old Drunkard mused.


    "A mission? To protect the small thousand world?" Zhongshan found this odd. Who assigned this mission? How could one family persist for so long?


    "The Tian Family isn''t the only one," Nangong Sheng suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh?"


    "There is another force dedicated to protecting this world," Nangong Sheng said.


    "Another one?"


    "The Creation God Pce," Nangong Sheng confirmed.


    "One of the three great holynds of the living world, the Creation God Pce?" Zhongshan was surprised.


    "Yes, the Creation God Pce. It''s the most mysterious of all the holynds in the living world. No one knows where it''s located, and it has never disappeared. Perhaps because the Creation God Pce watches over the living world, the Tian Family vanished there. While I was in the living world, apart from Xuan Yuan, I never saw anyone else from the Creation God Pce. It seems like there''s only one person per generation from the Creation God Pce," Nangong Sheng exined.


    "Only one person? How can that be considered a holynd?" Lin Xiao eximed in surprise.


    "I''m not sure. It seems that wherever the master of the Creation God Pce goes, that''s where the pce is established," Nangong Sheng replied after some thought.


    "Let''s not talk about the Creation God Pce anymore. Let''s discuss the Tian Family. I n to visit the Tian Family. Nangong Sheng, how is your recovery progressing?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Excluding my formation abilities, I only have the strength of the Fusion Period," Nangong Sheng replied with a bitter smile.


    "Alright then, you stay here in Great Zhen and recover," Zhongshan decided after some thought.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," Nangong Sheng nodded.


    "Supreme Yin, would you be willing to apany me?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Of course, I''ll go with you!" Yin Luori replied with a heartyugh, his battle spirit evident. He was eagerly anticipating the challenge of confronting the Tian Family with Zhongshan.


    "Your Majesty, I must remind you of something important," Nangong Sheng said with a frown.


    "Oh?"


    "In this small thousand world, the strongest beings are not us celestials but those at the twelfth level of the Celestial Extreme Realm. Like the ancient mighty figure Gu Shentong, he is the most powerful."


    "Uh?"


    "Whether before I was injured or those three Wu n members, as long as we are in this small thousand world, we are all limited by it. No one can match Gu Shentong in power. That is to say, the Wu n member you killed before, like me, could only exhibit the strength of the eleventh level of the Celestial Extreme Realm. And the one who defeated me was truly at the eleventh level. So, please, Your Majesty, be cautious and do not underestimate the Celestial Extreme Realm," Nangong Sheng warned solemnly.


    "Hmm, I understand," Zhongshan nodded. Indeed, even when Zhongshan opened the reincarnation passage, he only managed to defeat the weaker Wu n member and was weak for several days afterward. Facing someone like Gu Shentong would be suicidal. However, Zhongshan''s greatest advantage was his ability to escape; no formation or person could trap him.


    "Your Majesty, I..." The Old Drunkard began hesitantly.


    "Don''t worry, you don''t have to go," Zhongshan assured him.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" The Old Drunkard let out a sigh of relief.


    "Mr. Corpse, you will apany me," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes," Mr. Corpse replied with a nod. As someone from the great thousand world, Mr. Corpse had seen many powerful figures. Even hearing about the formidable Tian Family didn''t faze him.


    "Your Majesty, please take this old servant along!" Wei Taizhong quickly requested.


    "You?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "My strength iscking, but I promise I won''t interfere. Even if I have to wait from a distance, I beg Your Majesty to take me. I just want to see Yinn as soon as possible," Wei Taizhong pleaded, his face full of hope.


    "Very well," Zhongshan sighed deeply and nodded, unable to refuse Wei Taizhong''s earnest plea.


    "The four of us will depart in three days," Zhongshan dered firmly.


    "Yes!" The other three responded immediately.


    Thus, the four-person team to the hellish abyss was finalized: Zhongshan, Mr. Corpse, Yin Luori, and Wei Taizhong.


    Three dayster, the group set off for the center of the Yin Realm, heading toward the hellish abyss��


    In the living world, in a secluded valley, a man with white hair and wearing white clothes sat cross-legged with his eyes closed. This man was Xuan Yuan, the master of the Creation God Pce. Suddenly, Xuan Yuan''s eyes snapped open, revealing a pair of silver pupils from which a fierce, sword-like light shot out.

 Chapter 652: What Was Left Over from Those Years

    <h4>Chapter 652: What Was Left Over from Those Years</h4>


    Zhongshan, Mr. Corpse, Yin Luori, and Wei Taizhong sped towards the center of the Yin Realm. Their journey took half a year, with only a few short breaks along the way, before they reached the outskirts of the Hellish Abyss.


    The outskirts of the Hellish Abyss were shrouded in perpetual gloom. The sun was rarely seen, though the moon often appeared. The area was filled with dense Yin energy, and the wilderness was inhabited by mindless spirits wandering aimlessly. Some spirits gained intelligence over time, while others disintegrated into nothingness. The majority, however, moved instinctively toward the Hellish Abyss.


    The wilderness was also littered with decaying corpses, creating an eerie atmosphere. Crows feasting on the corpses added to the sense of destion and sorrow with their mournful caws. It felt as if they had stepped into a nighttime graveyard,pletely different from the outside world.


    As they approached the Hellish Abyss, Zhongshan decided to stop and gather information. Although Wei Taizhong had been here before, he knew the Emperor always prepared thoroughly for any endeavor. Rescuing Yinn was a daunting task that required meticulous nning. As Zhongshan often said, "To take, one must first give."


    The group first located a city and walked in boldly.


    This was a city in the Yin Realm, popted by humans, ghosts, and skeletons, making it a veryplex environment. One peculiar thing they noticed was that many shops seemed to be closed.


    "Your Majesty, when I was herest, most of these shops were open. Something''s not right," Wei Taizhong said, shaking his head.


    "Yao Blood Stones, it''s Yao Blood Stones! The price has gone up!" A voice suddenly shouted from somewhere nearby.


    Immediately, the previously quiet street was swarmed by both living and dead beings, all rushing towards the far end of the street.


    "Have they all gone mad?" Yin Luori frowned.


    "Let''s go to an inn and ask around," Zhongshan suggested.


    "Alright," the others agreed.


    The Daren Commerce Guild had not yet established a branch in this city, so they had to gather information by other means. The four of them entered an inn. Inside, it was nearly empty, with only a few idle staff and a worried-looking innkeeper tallying ounts.


    "Four guests, pleasee in!" A sharp-eyed waiter immediately noticed Zhongshan and hispanions.


    The waiter''s enthusiasm seemed to act like a stimnt, brightening the eyes of everyone in the inn, especially the innkeeper, who looked excited as if business had been slow for a long time.


    "Yes," Zhongshan nodded.


    The innkeeper, a seasoned man, quickly recognized the importance of these guests and approached to greet them. "Esteemed guests, what would you like to eat? We have..."


    Before he could finish, Wei Taizhong interrupted, "Bring out your best dishes!"


    "Very well, very well!" The innkeeper''s eyes lit up with excitement.


    After so many days, a big spender had finally arrived. He gave a signal to the waiter, who immediately went to prepare the food.


    "Innkeeper, I have some questions. Why are people outside acting so crazy?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Ah, you noticed, esteemed guest," the innkeeper said with a bitter smile.


    "Oh?"


    "This all stems from the enmity between our dynasty and the Tian Family," the innkeeper said, shaking his head.


    "Wait, your dynasty? Isn''t this an imperial dynasty? How do you have a dynasty?" Zhongshan asked in surprise.


    "This is indeed an imperial dynasty, the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty. But eight months ago, we discovered that the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty has always been a vassal of the Dayan Celestial Dynasty. Or rather, the Dayan Celestial Dynasty had nned to target the Tian Family from the beginning and had sent a prince here long ago to establish this imperial dynasty," the innkeeper exined.


    "Oh? So this imperial dynasty is also under Xing Taidou''s control?" Zhongshan asked in surprise.


    Hearing Zhongshan directly call Xing Taidou by name, the innkeeper frowned slightly but refrained frommenting, recognizing the importance of the four visitors.


    "Indeed. I suppose you are aware of the grudge between our emperor and the Tian Family," the innkeeper said.


    "Yes," Zhongshan nodded.


    "The Tian Family sent many strong cultivators to destroy the Dayan Celestial Dynasty. Furious, our emperor came here and even enlisted some powerful figures from the Immortal Realm to join forces against the overbearing Tian Family," the innkeeper exined.


    "Even the Immortal Realm got involved?" Zhongshan was surprised.


    "It is said that the powerful figures from the Immortal Realm and the emperor personally confronted the Tian Family but returned empty-handed. Consequently, the emperor decided to first destroy the imperial dynasties controlled by the Tian Family, eroding their fortune and gradually weakening their power," the innkeeper continued.


    "And the Tian Family?"


    "The Tian Family did not send more strong cultivators but instead assigned the young master Tian Xiao to handle the imperial wars. It seemed more like they were honing the young master''s skills," the innkeeper said.


    "So the war is in a stalemate?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yes, the young master of the Tian Family is indeed a brilliant strategist. However, our emperor has extensive battlefield experience from leading a grand celestial dynasty. Thus, the war has reached a deadlock," the innkeeper exined.


    "Then what''s happening in your city?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "We''re not sure when it started, but some items began to skyrocket in price, in a frenzied manner. Ordinary materials that were once of little value suddenly became worth dozens of times more, making many people rich overnight. But within days, the prices plummeted, causing those who had invested heavily to lose everything," the innkeeper said, recalling the chaos with a shudder.


    "Huh?" Zhongshan was taken aback. This sounded all too familiar.


    "After the first material dropped in price, another suddenly spiked. People rushed to invest, and while some made a fortune, many were ruined," the innkeeper continued.


    "Are prices fluctuating daily?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yes, every day. Over the past few months, many in the city have gone mad, eagerly throwing themselves into the vtile market. More and more people are getting rich overnight, and just as many are bing impoverished. Many shops have closed, and borrowing has increased dramatically, causing social unrest," the innkeeper said, still shaken.


    "Have you participated in this?" Zhongshan asked with a smile.


    "I made a small investment once, but I lost everything. I don''t dare to touch it again," the innkeeper admitted sheepishly.


    "Master, isn''t this simr to what you yed with years ago?" Wei Taizhong asked in surprise, addressing Zhongshan as ''Master'' in the presence of strangers.


    "yed with years ago?" The innkeeper looked at Wei Taizhong curiously, puzzled by his words.


    Zhongshan didn''t expect to see the copse n he once devised reappear in the Yin Realm. Xing Taidou was truly in trouble this time! Zhongshan couldn''t believe Tian Xiao hade up with this scheme on his own; it must have been Xiao Wang''s doing.


    Bringing down an imperial dynasty through amercial war. If Xing Taidou hadn''t realized the sinister nature of this economic warfare, he was bound to take a severe hit!


    "What measures are the government taking to curb this?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Curb? This frenzied trading has increased monthly tax revenues by tenfold. Why would they curb it? Besides, many officials and soldiers are involved, riding the wave of this trading frenzy!" the innkeeper shook his head.


    "Just as I thought!" Zhongshan smirked.


    Mr. Corpse also showed a rare, peculiar smile. Indeed, the copse n had once caused significant turmoil in the celestial dynasties of the living world. It made every dynasty wary and on edge.


    Mr. Corpse knew that executing the Heavenly Copse n wasn''t something an ordinary person could pull off. Without precise control over the market, it would be mere mimicry, attracting attention without substance. Tian Xiao and Xiao Wang were clearly not such individuals, so Mr. Corpse couldn''t help but feel a tinge of pity for Xing Taidou.


    At that moment, various dishes were quickly brought to the table.


    "Please enjoy your meal," the innkeeper said, his face showing excitement as he looked at the exquisite dishes.


    "Thank you. You can leave now," Zhongshan said with a nod.


    "Uh, alright," the innkeeper replied, slightly puzzled by the noble aura Zhongshan''s words implied. Who exactly was this man?


    "What do you mean by ''what was left over from those years''?" Yin Luori asked curiously, looking at the others.


    "When I was an official in the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty, I used this strategy, the Heavenly Copse Fourfold n. I wonder how much of it Xiao Wang has managed to replicate," Zhongshan said with a smile.


    "Oh? Xiao Wang learned from you? Will such price fluctuations affect the imperial war?" Yin Luori asked.


    "Back then, His Majesty''s Heavenly Copse n used only a few thousand people to copse an entire imperial dynasty without bloodshed!" Mr. Corpse confirmed.


    "Without bloodshed?" Yin Luori was incredulous. "Can an imperial dynasty really copse that easily?"


    "Your Majesty, you are familiar with Xiao Wang and know Tian Xiao. Should we investigate?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "No, there''s no point. We''ll rest for a day and then enter the Hellish Abyss tomorrow," Zhongshan said decisively.


    "Yes," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    The group rested for a day to regain their strength before officially setting out.


    "Innkeeper!" Zhongshan called.


    "Is there anything else you need?" The innkeeper walked over with a beaming smile. In just one day, this group ofvish spenders had given him nearly a month''s ie.


    "Thank you for the information yesterday. It was very helpful. Let me give you some advice as a token of gratitude," Zhongshan said with a smile.


    "Thank you, sir. You''ve already given me so many spirit stones; I''m very grateful," the innkeeper said quickly.


    "The spirit stones were our payment; they don''t count. My advice is optional for you to follow," Zhongshan said.


    "Please, go ahead."


    "In a little while, when the price of Xumi Stones drops and no one is buying, purchase as many as you can," Zhongshan advised with a smile.


    "Xumi Stones?" The innkeeper was puzzled at first, then nodded. "I''ll remember your words. Thank you!"


    Zhongshan nodded and, without further ado, led his threepanions out of the inn.


    Watching Zhongshan''s departing figure, the innkeeper frowned slightly. "Xumi Stones? What was left over from those years?"


    Gradually, the innkeeper made a decision, taking a deep breath as he prepared to re-enter the chaotic market outside.

 Chapter 653: Encounter with Xuan Yuan at the Entrance to the Yellow Springs

    <h4>Chapter 653: Encounter with Xuan Yuan at the Entrance to the Yellow Springs</h4>


    Two dayster, Zhongshan and his party arrived at the Hellish Abyss. The sky was overcast, and the dense Yin energy had given rise to numerous spirits fluttering around.


    Countless mindless ghosts staggered from all directions, converging as if drawn by some unseen force. Crows flew through the sky but eerily avoided the Hellish Abyss, as if a powerful force threatened any living being that approached.


    This was a ce purely for the gathering of the dead. Even Zhongshan and hispanions felt a deep sense of oppression in their hearts upon arrival.


    Flying through the air, Zhongshan took a deep breath, suppressing the resistance he felt within.


    In front of them, it appeared like a massive basin. All the ghosts converging from the four directions entered this nearly ten-thousand-foot-deep basin, known as the Hellish Abyss.


    As they flew towards the interior, they were suddenly enveloped by a strange dark energy. This energy made them feel as if they were carrying heavy burdens, significantly reducing their strength. This sensation was reminiscent of the "Buddhist Forbidden Ten Thousand Mountains" in the living world, where living beings'' energies were suppressed except for the dead.


    Arge number of mindless ghosts were walking towards the interior.


    "Are all these ghosts heading towards the Yellow Springs Road?" Zhongshan asked.


    "Yes, all the ghosts here are heading to the Yellow Springs Road, attempting to reverse walk the Yellow Springs Road," Mr. Corpse replied.


    "Oh? Reverse walk the Yellow Springs Road?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Indeed, Your Majesty has seen part of the Yellow Springs Road before," Mr. Corpse recalled.


    "Oh? I''ve seen it? You meanst time?" Zhongshan was surprised.


    "Yes,st time, when we entered the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss for the Great Annihtion event. After we left and were chased by Xiang Xiang Bodhisattva, I opened the Yellow Springs Road to trap her," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "You can open the Yellow Springs Road in the living world?" Yin Luori asked, astonished.


    Mr. Corpse nodded slightly. Seeing this, Yin Luori became even more intrigued. Opening the Yellow Springs Road in the living world?


    Zhongshan remembered. It was a valley, and when Xiang Xiang Bodhisattva descended, the entire valley turned yellow. In the endless yellow light, countless evil spirits were climbing, one grasping another, trying to ascend but never seeding. It was a magnificent sight with billions of spirits!


    "That was the Yellow Springs Road?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "That wasn''t all of it, just a segment. While it couldn''t drag Xiang Xiang Bodhisattva into the Yin Realm, it could trap her for a while. That appearance was the entrance to the Yellow Springs Road in the living world," Mr. Corpse exined.


    Yin Luori fell silent, reassessing Mr. Corpse. Who exactly was this person?


    "What is the purpose of the Yellow Springs Road?" Zhongshan asked.


    "When people die, one percent be ghosts, with most transitioning directly to the Yin Realm but bing extremely weak there. However, about one in ten thousand ghostse down the Yellow Springs Road. These ghosts not only preserve their soul energy but also be rejuvenated by it, and they may even gain certain attributes. For example, some ghosts develop a talent for water-based cultivation after descending the Yellow Springs Road," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Coming down the Yellow Springs Road?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Yinn came down the Yellow Springs Road! The Tian Family members captured her on the outskirts of the Yellow Springs Road," Wei Taizhong quickly added.


    "Hmm. What about reverse walking the Yellow Springs Road?" Zhongshan asked.


    "When people die and be ghosts in the Yin Realm, there''s a one percent chance they can reincarnate. But these mindless ghosts are different. If they die, they turn to dust, bing part of the earth. If they gain intelligence, they have a slim chance to reincarnate as living beings. This is where the Yellow Springs Roades in. If they can reverse walk it, they not only gain intelligence but also the opportunity to be reborn in the living world with enhanced attributes," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Oh?"


    "But the Yellow Springs Road is not easy to traverse. It''s extremely difficult. Most ghosts trying to reverse walk it turn to dust. Still, it''s better than wandering aimlessly driven purely by instinct," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Hmm, what about ghosts with intelligence trying to walk the Yellow Springs Road?"


    "They can reincarnate with their memories intact," Mr. Corpse confirmed.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan was surprised.


    "Your Majesty has already met two such individuals," Mr. Corpse continued.


    "Two?"


    "One is our Grand Zhen Corps Commander Shui Jing, and the other is Nu Qinghui from the Longevity Realm," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Them?" Zhongshan nodded.


    So they had sessfully reversed walked the Yellow Springs Road, keeping their memories for reincarnation? No wonder!


    "Reversing the Yellow Springs Road is extremely difficult. Only one in a million ghosts seed, whether they aremoners or ordinary ghosts. However, celestials can do it," Mr. Corpse said, frowning.


    "Celestials?" Zhongshan was surprised.


    "Yes, celestials. The Yellow Springs Road is different in every small thousand world. In this small thousand world, I have researched it and found that celestials can traverse the Yellow Springs Road between the two realms. Thus, for celestials wanting to enter the living world of this small thousand world, the best way is to enter the Yin Realm first and then use the Yellow Springs Road to reach the living world," Mr. Corpse exined seriously.


    "You''re saying that in this small thousand world, celestials can use the Yellow Springs Road, but in other small thousand worlds, they cannot?" Zhongshan asked, frowning.


    "Your Majesty is wise, seeing through it at once. Indeed, not all small thousand worlds are like this. Only in this small thousand world can celestials use the shortcut to the living world. However, only the celestials from this small thousand world know this secret," Mr. Corpse said.


    "Hmm," Zhongshan nodded.


    Suddenly, a blue light shot up from the ghost crowd below, aimed at the four of them.


    "Hmph!" Yin Luori snorted coldly. The blue light exploded and vanished.


    They were under attack?


    Zhongshan looked down curiously. Below, an extremely ugly ck ghost looked at its hand in disbelief, chattering in astonishment.


    The blue light hade from it, but it couldn''t understand why it dissipated halfway.


    "A little Ghost King, seeking death!" Yin Luori snorted coldly.


    He reached out and pointed down.


    "Ahhhh!" A scream echoed as the small Ghost King was crushed by Yin Luori''s finger.


    "Among the endless ghosts, some inevitably gain intelligence," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Hmm," Zhongshan nodded, not paying much attention.


    "Your Majesty, the Tian Family is in that direction," Wei Taizhong pointed.


    "No, we go to the Yellow Springs Road first, to the ce where Yinn was captured!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!"


    The group followed the path the countless ghosts were walking, quickly flying in that direction��


    Five dayster, they stopped.


    From a distance, Zhongshan saw the so-called Yellow Springs Road. A massive yellow column seemed to connect heaven and earth, cascading like a rolling river from the sky, sweeping everything around it. The column reached the sky above and plunged into the earth below.


    Belowy a vast sea of yellow springs, its waves roaring tumultuously. This was the Yellow Springs, and the yellow column like a river''s surge was the Yellow Springs Road.


    The Yellow Springs Road extended into the depths of the starry sky, disappearing gradually into the distance, leading straight to the living world. Countless ghosts plunged into the yellow sea, swimming tirelessly. The entire sea was filled with ghostly heads bobbing up and down, creating a haunting sight.


    These ghosts aimed to ascend the Yellow Springs Road. They desperately swam upstream, attempting to climb the rolling, heavenly river. However, the downward torrent washed away many ghosts, dispersing their souls. Despite this, the ghosts persisted, heads continuously emerging from the torrent, swimming and climbing relentlessly.


    The Yellow Springs Road was an arduous journey, and many ghosts were dispersed by its force.


    "Swimming upstream is as difficult as ascending to the heavens!" Yin Luori remarked in awe.


    Even though he had seen the Yellow Springs Road multiple times, Yin Luori couldn''t help but marvel at it.


    "The Yellow Springs Road is very mysterious. The water from the Yellow Springs only has its unique properties here. Once taken out, it bes ordinary yellow water," Mr. Corpse exined, scooping up a handful of the Yellow Springs water.


    "Unique properties?" Zhongshan asked, puzzled.


    "Above this sea of Yellow Springs, there is a unique power. Mortals can''t fly here. If they try, it feels as if their powers are drained, causing them to fall into the Yellow Springs. Inside, it''s even more so. On the Yellow Springs Road, all are equal; no one can use their powers, except for celestials," Mr. Corpse said.


    Zhongshan frowned, observing the Yellow Springs Sea and the towering Yellow Springs Road. The world held so many wonders.


    "Your Majesty, Yinn was captured over there," Wei Taizhong pointed to a distant spot.


    "Yinn had just crossed the Yellow Springs Road and was immediately captured by the Tian Family?" Zhongshan''s eyes grew cold.


    The group of four flew towards the ce where Yinn was captured.


    As they neared, Zhongshan surveyed the surroundings. There were no traces left by Yinn, only numerous ghosts heading towards the Yellow Springs Sea.


    "Huh?" Yin Luori frowned, looking into the distance.


    "What is it?" the others asked.


    "There''s someone over there!" Yin Luori said, frowning.


    "Someone? From the Tian Family?" Zhongshan''s eyes turned colder.


    "Doesn''t look like it!" Yin Luori shook his head.


    Not like it?


    The group flew towards the figure.


    At the peak of a ten-thousand-foot-high mountain, there was arge tform. The tform was undisturbed by ghosts, and on it sat a man with white hair and a white robe, meditating with his eyes half-closed and his hands forming a seal before his chest.


    "Xuan Yuan?" Zhongshan eximed in surprise.


    Xuan Yuan? The master of the Creation God Pce, Xuan Yuan, was here? Wasn''t he supposed to be in the living world? How did he end up in the Yin Realm, sitting before the Yellow Springs Road?


    As Zhongshan approached, Xuan Yuan slowly opened his eyes, his silver pupils fixing on Zhongshan. A look of surprise shed in his eyes as well.

 Chapter 654: Ao Lie

    <h4>Chapter 654: Ao Lie</h4>


    "Zhongshan?" Xuan Yuan looked at Zhongshan with surprise, a hint of seriousness furrowing his brow.


    Why was Zhongshan here? How did he end up in the underworld?


    In the past, Xuan Yuan had also received great kindness from Zhongshan. On Phoenix Ind, it was Zhongshan''s guidance that helped Xuan Yuan see through emotional entanglements, allowing him to reach the pinnacle of the Heavenly Extreme Realm and officially be the Pce Master of the Genesis Divine Pce. Although Xuan Yuan had repaid all of Zhongshan''s kindness, the history between them couldn''t be erased.


    "How did you end up in the underworld?" Zhongshan asked incredulously.


    Xuan Yuan stared at Zhongshan, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes. "Aren''t you in the underworld too?"


    Zhongshan was curious how Xuan Yuan could descend into the underworld, just as Xuan Yuan wondered how Zhongshan could be there. Yet both seemed to have their own secrets, and neither answered.


    "Who is this?" Xuan Yuan suddenly frowned, looking at Yinluo Yue.


    After all, Xuan Yuan could sense Yinluo Yue''s strength, and he also wanted to change the subject.


    Naturally, Zhongshan didn''t want to dwell on how he came to the underworld either, and smoothly transitioned away from the topic. "Former Supreme of the Tiger n, Yinluo Yue!"


    "You are Yinluo Yue?" Xuan Yuan frowned in surprise.


    "I didn''t expect even the Pce Master of the Genesis Divine Pce to know me." Yinluo Yue smiled and greeted.


    "And these two?" Xuan Yuan asked again.


    "We are both under His Majesty!" Wei Taizhong replied. Obviously, neither he nor Mr. Shi wanted to say much.


    Xuan Yuan nodded.


    "Why are you sitting here? Don''t tell me you''re suppressing some kind of fierce ghost here like you once suppressed the Eight Extreme Celestial Tails?" Zhongshan joked.


    "No!" Xuan Yuan took a deep breath, his face bing extremely serious.


    "Oh?" Zhongshan was slightly surprised. From Xuan Yuan''s expression, he sensed something serious.


    "There are intruders in the Great Thousand Worlds again!" Xuan Yuan said solemnly.


    "What? Intruders?" Zhongshan widened his eyes in disbelief.


    "Not long ago, there was already one who came, trying to travel from the Yellow Springs Road to the mortal realm. I ended up killing him, but it seems he''s not alone!" Xuan Yuan took another deep breath.


    "What? You killed him?" Zhongshan stared, showing his disbelief.


    "How?" Xuan Yuan asked in puzzlement.


    "You said he wanted to go from here to the mortal realm?" Zhongshan was increasingly astonished.


    "Yes!" Xuan Yuan nodded.


    "But isn''t it only immortals who can travel from the Yellow Springs Road to the mortal realm?" Zhongshan was even more surprised.


    "He is an immortal, but just a human immortal, the lowest level of immortals." Xuan Yuan exined.


    "Just a human immortal?" Zhongshan looked at Xuan Yuan speechlessly. Human immortals, also known as yellow immortals, even if suppressed by the small world, are the peak of the ninth stage of the Tianji realm. However, such a powerful person was killed by Xuan Yuan?


    "No way? Xuan Yuan hasn''t broken through the Tianji realm for less than a hundred years, so he killed an immortal?" It''s unreasonable?


    As if seeing Zhongshan''s iprehension, Xuan Yuan smiled and shook his head: "My Genesis Divine Pce is different from other sacred ces!"


    Different? Can''t be exaggerated? Although Zhongshan was unusually strange in his heart, he didn''t ask more, just nodded.


    Exaggerated Genesis Divine Pce, which has not broken through the Tianji realm for a hundred years, is so powerful?


    "Why are you here again?" Xuan Yuan frowned and asked.


    Zhongshan was about to answer, but suddenly, a sh of light in his mind, his eyes brightened to see Xuan Yuan.


    "How?" Xuan Yuan frowned, looking at Zhongshan strangely.


    Zhongshan shook his head with a wry smile and said, "I suddenly remembered something about you."


    "Oh?" Xuan Yuan responded.


    "Are you familiar with the Tian family in this abyssal hell?" Zhongshan asked, fixing his gaze on Xuan Yuan.


    "I know of them, but I''m not familiar with them. Their ways don''t sh with my Genesis Divine Pce, and we even have somemon ground. When I meet people from the Tian family, I usually don''t make things difficult for them. Why do you ask?" Xuan Yuan looked at Zhongshan curiously.


    "Not familiar?" Zhongshan frowned slightly.


    After a moment of contemtion, Zhongshan stared at Xuan Yuan and asked seriously, "Do you know about the Tian family''s ''Jingbo Pool''?"


    "Jingbo Pool?" Xuan Yuan seemed puzzled, clearly unfamiliar with it.


    Indeed, few people in the underworld knew about it, let alone those in the mortal realm.


    "The Tian family has specific members who regrlye to the Yellow Springs Road to collect souls descending from the mortal realm. One of my rtives'' souls was captured and thrown into the Jingbo Pool!" Zhongshan said, staring at Xuan Yuan.


    As expected, upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, Xuan Yuan suddenly raised his head, his eyes shing with surprise and excitement.


    "I don''t know if this information is useful to you, but consider it a reference," Zhongshan said lightly.


    Xuan Yuan took a deep breath, his brow furrowing into a tight knot. Then, narrowing his eyes, he said, "Jingbo Pool? If what you say is true, it seems I must investigate."


    "Oh? Investigate the Jingbo Pool? Could it be that your..." Zhongshan inquired.


    In the past, Xuan Yuan had been troubled by love, and the woman had died, potentially bing a ghost. Given the Genesis Divine Pce''s ability to traverse between the mortal and underworld realms, Xuan Yuan must have searched for the woman''s soul but never found it. Zhongshan had hoped to use this information to his advantage, and it seemed to have worked.


    "She became a ghost and entered the underworld, traveling the Yellow Springs Road. But when I descended to find her, she was nowhere to be found. I thought she might have met with an ident on the Yellow Springs Road. Now it seems there''s another possibility," Xuan Yuan said gravely.


    "Would you be willing to go to the Tian family?" Zhongshan asked solemnly.


    "After dealing with the intruders from the Great Thousand Worlds, I will definitely go," Xuan Yuan replied earnestly.


    "In that case, we''ll leave first. When we have news, we''ll inform you," Zhongshan said.


    "Thank you!"


    Without further words, Zhongshan and his threepanions flew away from the peak, heading in the direction Wei Taizhong had indicated, toward the Tian family. Xuan Yuan slowly resumed his seated position, returning to his previous state.


    After flying for half a day, something felt off to Yinluo Yue.


    "Wait!" Yinluo Yue suddenly eximed.


    "What is it?" Zhongshan asked in confusion.


    "I sensed someone just now, fleetingly, heading towards the Yellow Springs Road. And it wasn''t just one person��it seemed like six," Yinluo Yue said in surprise.


    "More than one? Immortals?" Zhongshan immediately connected the dots.


    "Your Majesty, what should we do?" Wei Taizhong asked.


    "Return. If Xuan Yuan can truly fend off six immortals, having him as a strong ally when we go to the Tian family would be beneficial," Zhongshan said seriously.


    "Understood!" The group nodded.


    They quickly retraced their steps toward the Yellow Springs Road. Before reaching it, they stopped at a distance.


    They watched Xuan Yuan from afar.


    Xuan Yuan remained seated at the peak of the mountain, while in front of him, six men in green robes stood in mid-air. The men varied in appearance, but all had a powerful and arrogant aura. The leader had a slightly prominent forehead and a fierce demeanor.


    "Ao Lie?" Yinluo Yue eximed in surprise.


    "Ao Lie?" Mr. Shi echoed, puzzled.


    "The leading immortal, Ao Lie, was once the Supreme of the Dragon n. Later, he was forced out of the small thousand world by Emperor Xuan Sha. How has he returned?" Yinluo Yue said, astonished.


    "Ao Lie?" Zhongshan furrowed his brow. Why had hee back?


    "The Genesis Divine Pce? Still causing trouble, I see," Ao Lie sneered.


    "Supreme Ao, I advise you one more time to leave. For the sake of our past connections, I can pretend I didn''t see you," Xuan Yuan said sternly.


    "Pretend you didn''t see me? You think you can stop me from returning? When I became an immortal, you didn''t even know where you were," Ao Lie retorted disdainfully.


    "Then why don''t you try?" Xuan Yuan said coldly.


    Ao Lie was about to respond when someone behind him spoke calmly, "Brother Lie, we aren''t here to cause trouble."


    Reminded by hispanion, Ao Lie nodded, took a deep breath, and said, "Let''s put it this way, I''m just here to retrieve something from the East Sea. Once I have it, I''ll leave."


    "The rule of the small thousand world is that once you leave, you are no longer part of it. Please go back!" Xuan Yuan refused bluntly.


    "Hmph!" One of the men in green robes snorted, his temper ring. In a sh, he disappeared from his spot and attacked Xuan Yuan with a palm strike. Xuan Yuan didn''t move forward but closed his eyes and touched his forehead with a finger.


    A strange thing happened. Though Xuan Yuan remained seated, an illusion of him suddenly appeared in mid-air, bing increasingly solid until it met the green-robed man''s palm strike.


    "Boom!"


    A massive collision ensued, creating a ten-zhang ck hole. The powerful spatial shockwave shattered countless ghosts, turning them to dust.


    The green-robed man was sent flying back, while Xuan Yuan''s illusion shattered.


    "The techniques of the Genesis Divine Pce are indeed mysterious and unpredictable," Yinluo Yue said, looking curiously at the still-seated Xuan Yuan.


    "Do you think you alone can stop the six of us?" Ao Lie sneered.


    Xuan Yuan didn''t reply. His hair began to flutter without wind, and a holy light suddenly enveloped his entire body. Within the light, he appeared blurry and ethereal.


    At that moment, a massive white cloud appeared in the sky, radiating countless beams of white light that exuded a sense of holiness. Simultaneously, numerous feathers made of white light descended from the sky.


    "The heavens?" The man who had just shed with Xuan Yuan sneered.


    "Not ''the heavens,'' but the Genesis Divine Pce''s ''Holy Light Curtain,''" Ao Lie corrected, shaking his head.


    "What''s happening?" Another green-robed man asked in shock, as Xuan Yuan''s form underwent a drastic transformation.


    From Xuan Yuan''s back, two beams of white light exploded, revealing a pair of enormous white wings, each spanning ten meters. The white wings soared skyward.


    Xuan Yuan''s eyes snapped open, revealing a pair of silver pupils that emitted a terrifying, world-destroying aura. Looking into those eyes felt like staring into the heartless will of the heavens.


    Wings sprouting from his back, eyes embodying the will of the heavens?


    Ao Lie and hispanions drew sharp breaths.


    "Brother Lie, what''s going on?" one of the green-robed men asked, frowning.


    "Genesis Divine Pce, the Genesis Body? This generation of the Genesis Divine Pce has produced a Genesis Body?" Ao Lie eximed, drawing a sharp breath.


    "The Genesis Body? How could that be? How could such a holy physique appear in the small thousand world?" another green-robed man asked, astonished.


    "No matter. What of the Genesis Body? Can he stop the six of us, the Earth Immortals? The Genesis Body is a treasure in itself. Today, we''ll kill him and use his blood to refine our immortal weapons!" another green-robed man said excitedly.

 Chapter 655: Xuan Yuan vs. Six Immortals

    <h4>Chapter 655: Xuan Yuan vs. Six Immortals</h4>


    With his white wings spread wide, Xuan Yuan seemed to unseal his own power, a massive aura pressing against the six Earth Immortals.


    "Six Earth Immortals?" Zhongshan gasped from a distance, hearing the immortals'' words.


    Earth Immortals��those were the same level as the former leader of the Wu n. And now, there were six of them standing here?


    "What are these people doing in the mortal realm? The East Sea? What in the East Sea could be worth the journey of six Earth Immortals? And with just Earth Immortal strength, they surely couldn''t enter the small thousand world. There must be a greater power behind this. But for what?" Yinluo Yue frowned.


    What could it be for? Zhongshan''s expression turned peculiar. Could it be the Dragon n''s legendary seal? That thing had long been consumed by him and turned into energy.


    "In that case, let''s begin. We will share this Genesis Body among ourselves!" Ao Lie said excitedly.


    "Agreed!" The green-robed men all showed a hint of greed.


    The six Earth Immortals reached an agreement, each taking out arge halberd and surrounding Xuan Yuan.


    "Rise!"


    At the shout of one of the green-robed men, a sudden surge of green light enveloped the area, covering a vast number of ghostly beings as well as Zhongshan and hispanions. The sky turned green, the earth turned green, and endless green vitality burst forth. The Yellow Springs Road vanished before their eyes.


    "A world?" Zhongshan squinted his eyes.


    It was a "world," an evolved form of "heaven," created by the six Earth Immortals, encapsting Xuan Yuan within. In this world, the owner would gain massive power boosts while suppressing their opponent''s abilities.


    Seeing the sudden change into a green world, Xuan Yuan coldly chuckled. With a light p of his massive wings, endless white light shot up towards the white clouds above. The clouds suddenly exploded, transforming into a strange power that illuminated the sky. The entire green "world" trembled violently, and the area bathed in white light copsed, dissipating into green smoke. The full view of the Yellow Springs Road was revealed again.


    The "world" had shattered, the green world receded, and the six Earth Immortals looked at Xuan Yuan with grave expressions. With a single p of his wings, Xuan Yuan had broken free from the "world''s" confinement.


    "Heavenly Wings, truly worthy of a Holy Dao Body," Ao Lie sighed.


    As he spoke, one of the green-robed men gripped his halberd and shed at Xuan Yuan with a powerful strike that tore through space, leaving a massive gash as if parting water.


    The formidable aura of the immortal''s strike crashed down on Xuan Yuan.


    "The space of this small thousand world is really fragile," another green-robed man frowned.


    "Humph!"


    With a cold snort, Xuan Yuan formed a hand seal, and a surge of white light burst from his body, shing with the halberd. The surrounding space shattered.


    "Boom!"


    The white light collided with the halberd, sending it recoiling, while the white light also shattered. At this moment, Xuan Yuan suddenly wielded a horsetail whisk.


    With a flick of the whisk, the surrounding space trembled. Even from afar, Zhongshan could feel the immense shockwave.


    "The Supreme Treasure of the Ages, the First Whisk," Yinluo Yue exined.


    "The First Whisk?" Zhongshan was slightly taken aback. The name was audacious��calling it the First?


    The whisk''s name seemed incredibly arrogant, but its power was undeniable. The six Earth Immortals recognized the threat as they closed in on Xuan Yuan, their expressions turning deadly serious.


    In the distance, the space had shattered, forming a massive ck hole that engulfed Xuan Yuan and the six Earth Immortals. From the outside, it was impossible to see inside the ck hole, but the shockwaves emanating from within hinted at the fierce battle raging inside.


    In the void, only a giant phantom of the horsetail whisk could be seen, shing with the immense energy waves produced by the six great halberds. Each strand of the whisk transformed into a colossal whip, colliding with the halberds'' energy waves. The intense shockwaves caused the ck hole to expand continuously, with the vibrations growing stronger and spreading in all directions. Countless ghostly beings were pulverized into dust, the ground crumbled, and the sky cleared of all clouds.


    Even the ground where Zhongshan stood trembled. Frowning, he led his group to retreat further. However, the Yellow Springs Road and Yellow Springs Sea remained unaffected. The powerful spatial shockwaves dissipated mysteriously upon reaching the Yellow Springs Sea. Even the fierce ck hole ceased to exist when it approached the sea''s surface, indicating an unshakable force protecting the Yellow Springs Sea.


    Although Zhongshan and hispanions couldn''t see the battle directly, the phantoms of the whisk and halberds showed that the fight inside was incredibly intense.


    "Has Xuan Yuan really been in the Heavenly Extreme Realm for less than a hundred years?" Yinluo Yue asked in disbelief.


    "Yes!" Zhongshan confirmed.


    "But does this look like a battle of someone who has just entered the Heavenly Extreme Realm? Six Earth Immortals, even under the suppression of the small thousand world, are equivalent to eleventh-level peak experts of the Heavenly Extreme Realm. Six against one, and they still can''t defeat Xuan Yuan?" Yinluo Yue''s face twitched.


    "Didn''t Xuan Yuan say it himself? The Genesis Divine Pce is different from other sacred ces!" Zhongshan replied, equally baffled.


    "Different? This isn''t just different; it''s monstrous!" Yinluo Yue rolled his eyes in exasperation.


    This day was destined to be a disaster for the ghostly beings in the abyss. Countless ghosts were annihted by the battle''s residual shockwaves.


    Xuan Yuan alone against six Earth Immortals?


    Is there only one person in the Genesis Divine Pce? Indeed, one person alone was enough to support a sacred ce. His strength was simply perverse.


    The battle continued for an entire day and night. After that time, with the ck hole expanding tenfold in a sudden explosion, Xuan Yuan and the six Earth Immortals emerged from it.


    The six Earth Immortals'' clothes and hair were disheveled, each looking at Xuan Yuan with shock. How was this possible? How could it be?


    The six Earth Immortals exchanged nces.


    "The key to the Ancestral Dragon''s Secret Realm is crucial. Ao Lie, you go first. My brother and I will hold him off!" one of the green-robed men shouted.


    "Leave? Do you want to keep the Genesis Body all to yourselves?" another green-robed man raised an eyebrow.


    "The master''s business is urgent!" the first green-robed man insisted.


    "Hmph, the master''s business isn''t so pressing that we can''t capture him first!" another retorted.


    Watching the six bicker, Xuan Yuan smirked coldly. "How long do you intend to drag this out? Since your human forms aren''t my match, why not transform into your true forms?"


    The six Earth Immortals stowed their halberds, exchanging looks before turning to face Xuan Yuan.


    "Roar!"


    Ao Lie let out a long roar, his body radiating green light. In an instant, he transformed into a massive azure dragon five thousand zhang long. The dragon opened its mouth and spewed a bolt of lightning towards Xuan Yuan.


    "Crack!"


    A massive pir of lightning shot straight towards Xuan Yuan, shattering the space it passed through and attacking his body directly. Xuan Yuan''s eyes focused intensely as he swung the First Whisk, creating a woven from starlight to meet the lightning.


    "Roar!"


    "Roar!"


    Five more deafening dragon roars resounded as the remaining five transformed into azure dragons, each five thousand zhang long. Together, they spewed lightning towards Xuan Yuan.


    "Boom!"


    The starlight blocked Ao Lie''s lightning but couldn''t withstand thebined assault of the other five. The shattered, and the space around it disintegrated from the immense impact. Xuan Yuan was once again facing the six massive azure dragons alone.


    Only in their true forms could the dragons disy their full power. Astonishingly, Xuan Yuan battled them single-handedly for nearly two more days. The aftermath of their fight grew increasingly destructive, iming countless ghostly lives. Zhongshan and hispanions had to keep retreating.


    "The Genesis Divine Pce is absurdly powerful!" Yinluo Yue said with envy.


    "Xuan Yuan might appear gentle and schrly, but he is exceptionally fierce. Even in the Emperor Extreme Realm, he was recognized as the strongest, known throughout thend. Now that he''s reached the Heavenly Extreme Realm, he''s naturally even more formidable," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    Indeed, Zhongshan recalled hearing about Xuan Yuan''s reputation as the "strongest Emperor Extreme Realm." For someone to be universally acknowledged as the strongest among such proud individuals spoke volumes about his ferocity. Xuan Yuan had once annihted the entire Bear n in the Divine Continent. Now it seemed the Bear n''s absence in the underworld could also be his doing.


    Despite his schrly appearance, when Xuan Yuan unleashed his killing intent, it was truly earth-shattering!


    Regardless of the battle''s oue, Xuan Yuan''s strength was undeniable.


    As the ck hole expanded threefold with a thunderous boom, Xuan Yuan and the six dragons were revealed once more.


    This time, however, a trace of blood trickled from the corner of Xuan Yuan''s mouth, while the six dragons remained unscathed.


    "Ha ha ha, so what if you''re the Genesis Body? Just three of us are enough to kill you. But we''re pressed for time, so let''s finish this!" one of the dragons eximed excitedly.


    "Roar!" The dragons roared with excitement.


    It was evident that Xuan Yuan had been at a disadvantage in the fight against the six dragons.


    "Humph!" Xuan Yuan snorted coldly once more, cing his right index and middle fingers on his forehead again.


    Seeing Xuan Yuan''s actions, the six dragons hesitated.


    "Open!"


    "Open!"


    "Open!"


    Three voices shouted "open" simultaneously from a distance. It was bizarre because it sounded as if three people were shouting at once, but they were all Xuan Yuan''s voice. How could he shout three voices at once?

 Chapter 656: The Power of Reincarnation

    <h4>Chapter 656: The Power of Reincarnation</h4>


    "Open!" "Open!" "Open!"


    With three simultaneous shouts from Xuan Yuan, a bizarre scene unfolded once more.


    Under the incredulous gazes of the six dragons, Xuan Yuan''s body suddenly extended backward. Two massive wings abruptly transformed into six enormous celestial wings. But it wasn''t that Xuan Yuan had grown two more pairs of wings; rather, two identical Xuan Yuans had mysteriously appeared behind him.


    Seeing this, not only the six dragons but even Zhong Shan''s expression changed. What was going on? How could he also have clones?


    "What is happening? Which one is real?" Yin Luoyue eximed in surprise.


    How could Yin Luoyue not be astonished? Because he realized that the three Xuan Yuans were exactly alike, unlike the previous phantom forms which were mere illusions. These three were solid and real.


    Three identical Xuan Yuans? Yin Luoyue was in utter disbelief. Zhong Shan stared intently, while only Mr. Shi calmly took a deep breath.


    "All three are real," Mr. Shi said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan immediately looked at Mr. Shi. After all, Mr. Shi hailed from the Great Thousand World and had certainly heard of the so-called Creation Body.


    "The Creation Body is a type of Saint Path Physique, the best kind of physique for cultivation. This physique possesses a divine ability that allows one to split into three without losing strength. It''s extraordinarily powerful. I never imagined he truly had the Creation Body," Mr. Shi sighed.


    "Split into three?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. This ability allows one to triple their strength out of thin air. Many experts in the Great Thousand World have studied this physique but have always ended in failure because it''s too mysterious. The only breakthrough was when a great master used this research to develop a certain technique," Mr. Shi exined, still frowning.


    "Also able to split into three?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No, splitting into three is not that easy," Mr. Shi shook his head.


    "Then what is it?" Yin Luoyue asked.


    "Three heads and six arms. That''s the limit. Using the Creation Body, they developed the ability of three heads and six arms. Although it doesn''t triple the strength, it''s much stronger than usual," Mr. Shi exined.


    "Three heads and six arms?" Yin Luoyue looked puzzled, not understanding.


    Zhong Shan, however, squinted his eyes. Three heads and six arms?


    "Splitting into three is the limit?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "Yes, only three. More bodies can''t be split," Mr. Shi nodded.


    Zhong Shan nodded and looked into the distance.


    In the distance, the six dragons were equally shocked, staring at the three Xuan Yuans.


    "What?"


    "Creation Body, splitting into three?" One green dragon suddenly seemed to remember and shouted.


    "Splitting into three? At this moment, he dares to disperse his power! Seeking death!" another green dragon said.


    "No, it''s rumored that splitting into three doesn''t reduce strength!"


    "How is that possible?"


    "We''ll find out by testing," Ao Lie shouted.


    "Alright!" The dragons nodded.


    "Roar����������������������������������������������������������������"


    The dragons roared fiercely, diving towards Xuan Yuan once again.


    The three Xuan Yuans simultaneously looked up, each fixing their gaze on two green dragons, a cold smile curling at the corners of their mouths. With a wave of their dusters, their bodies blurred as they charged at the dragons. As the six dragons swung their tails, the sky was once again shattered by the powerful impact, this time twice asrge as before, causing the surroundings to tremble even more violently.


    "Your Majesty, if Xuan Yuan can defeat the Six Immortals and apany us to the Tian Family, we will certainly be able to rescue Yinn," Wei Taizhong said excitedly from the side.


    "I don''t know," Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "Why not?" Wei Taizhong asked, puzzled.


    "Xuan Yuan is strong, but the Tian Family is the most profound power in the Underworld. It won''t be that simple," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "However, if we can persuade Xuan Yuan to join us, our chances of sess will greatly increase!" Mr. Shi added.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded in agreement.


    Wei Taizhong felt reassured.


    In the distance, the three Xuan Yuans each faced off against two green dragons. The fierce battle continued, and in an instant, the situation transformed once more.


    This battlested for ten days. Yin Luoyue, watching from the side, was filled with a strange feeling. How could the difference be so vast when both sides were at the Heavenly Extreme Realm?


    After ten days, the battle finally subsided.


    The three Xuan Yuans stood atop a mountain peak, while the six green dragons hovered in the sky. The shattered space in the sky was slowly mending itself. This time, both sides appeared somewhat disheveled. Xuan Yuan''s clothes had several rips, and the six green dragons bore numerous marks as if they had been tightly bound. Many dragon scales were shattered, exposing bits of flesh and blood.


    There was a moment of silence.


    "Ao Lie, you''ve seen it yourself. You are not my match. Take them and leave the Small Thousand World," one of the Xuan Yuans said in a deep voice.


    "Unexpectedly, the Creation God Pce is so powerful. I underestimated the people of the world back then. Is the Creation God Pce truly the strongest in Shenzhou?" Ao Lie took a deep breath.


    "The strongest in Shenzhou? Heh, you overpraise us. Back then, you did underestimate the world and were forced out of Shenzhou by Emperor Xuansha. However, to say I am the strongest, you are mistaken. In Shenzhou, there are those stronger than me," Xuan Yuan shook his head.


    After Xuan Yuan spoke, the five green dragons all looked at Ao Lie.


    "Ao Lie, what kind of world is this? He isn''t even the strongest? With our power as six earth immortals, we could sweep across any other Small Thousand World. Why is everyone we encounter here so formidable?" one green dragon eximed in astonishment.


    Ao Lie also looked frustrated. How could he exin? How could he know there were so many powerful beings in Shenzhou?


    "Return to where you came from, or I will show no mercy," one of the Xuan Yuans said coldly.


    "You cannot kill us," another green dragon retorted.


    "But I can kill one, one by one," a cold glint shed in Xuan Yuan''s eyes.


    Hearing this chilling threat, the dragons felt a wave of fear.


    At that moment, one of the green dragons transformed back into human form.


    "Big brother, what are you doing?" another green dragon shouted.


    "Before we left, the master anticipated potential dangers and made preparations," the one addressed as big brother said coldly.


    "Oh?" The dragons were slightly stunned.


    With a wave of his hand, the man took out a disc. The disc was like a jade carving, emanating a strange aura in concentric circles.


    Seeing this object, Xuan Yuan''s pupils contracted, instinctively sensing a threat.


    "What is that?" Ao Lie asked.


    "Surround Xuan Yuan," the man ordered.


    The dragons quickly formed a circle around Xuan Yuan, then turned their gaze to the disc.


    The man reluctantly looked at the disc onest time before inserting it into the ground.


    Xuan Yuan watched coldly.


    "Big brother, what is that?"


    "This is a ''Reincarnation Jade Talisman,'' specially procured by our master at great cost from the first disciple of the Reincarnation Saint," the man sneered.


    "Reincarnation Jade Talisman?" The dragons were stunned.


    "Reincarnation Passage, rise!"


    With a loud shout, the man activated the jade talisman. The mountain peak where Xuan Yuan stood copsed into the earth with a thunderous crash. A massive green passage appeared on the ground, directly targeting Xuan Yuan.


    The three Xuan Yuans immediately sensed danger and attempted to escape. However, with five dragons guarding the perimeter, how could Xuan Yuan flee?


    Despite Xuan Yuan''s immense power, only two of the clones managed to escape momentarily, while one was struck back by a dragon''s tail.


    The earth shattered, ck mist enveloped the area, and the green passage emitted a world-destroying aura, voraciously absorbing everything around it. Anything entering the passage was ground to dust.


    The five green dragons in the sky were slightly pulled towards the Reincarnation Passage by its residual force. Panic-stricken, they hurriedly retreated to the periphery.


    If the residual force could affect earth-immortal-level green dragons, how could Xuan Yuan at the center withstand it?


    Xuan Yuan''s eyes bulged as his massive wings pped desperately, trying to distance himself from the green passage. But the suction was too powerful; even with all his strength, Xuan Yuan''s body was slowly being drawn closer.


    Seeing the danger, the other two Xuan Yuans rushed towards the man controlling the Reincarnation Passage.


    "Stop them! The Reincarnation Jade Talisman can only sustain the passage for one hour. If one Xuan Yuan dies, the other two will perish as well," the man in green said.


    "Roar! Roar! Roar! Roar! Roar!"


    The five dragons blocked the remaining two Xuan Yuans. Despite the powerful attacks from the two clones, the dragons withstood them all, knowing that as long as one Xuan Yuan died, the other two would follow.


    The powerful Reincarnation Passage, with its terrifying suction, was far more fearsome than any ck hole. Even someone as strong as Xuan Yuan couldn''t resist it.


    "Reincarnation Jade Talisman?" Mr. Shi eximed.


    "What is that?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The Reincarnation Saint from the Great Thousand World sealed a power to open the Reincarnation Passage within the jade talisman. It can only be used once, but even a single use is beyond ordinary people''s endurance. The Reincarnation Saint only bestowed these talismans to a few of his disciples," Mr. Shi quickly exined.


    "Reincarnation Saint?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath and frowned, looking at the disadvantaged Xuan Yuan in the distance. No, Xuan Yuan must not fall now.


    "Your Majesty, should we intervene?" Mr. Shi asked seriously.


    "Would our intervention be of any use?" Yin Luoyue asked with a bitter smile.


    Zhong Shan didn''t respond, his cold gaze fixed on the distance. His pupils contracted and then turned green. The Eyes of Reincarnation opened, and the others once again felt that terrifying world-destroying aura emanating from Zhong Shan.


    With a stomp, Zhong Shan seemed to channel an apocalyptic aura into the ground beneath him.


    "Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!"


    In the distance, the man in greenughed maniacally, watching Xuan Yuan suffer.


    Xuan Yuan was getting closer and closer to the Reincarnation Passage. His eyes were filled with anger, but there was nothing he could do. This was the power of a saint sealed in a jade talisman. The power of a saint could not be resisted by mere mortals, not even by someone with a Saint Path Physique like him.

 Chapter 657: Arrival at the Tian Family

    <h4>Chapter 657: Arrival at the Tian Family</h4>


    The five green dragons, despite taking heavy blows from the two Xuan Yuans, desperately blocked them, waiting for their "big brother" to seed. If even one Xuan Yuan died, the other two would perish as well.


    Xuan Yuan, suspended above the Reincarnation Passage, found it increasingly difficult to hold on. The powerful force of reincarnation, one of the world''s most mysterious naturalws, was now visible thanks to the Reincarnation Jade Talisman, showcasing the might of the Reincarnation Saint.


    The Reincarnation Saint was formidable, but he wasn''t the only one capable of opening the Reincarnation Passage. Zhong Shan, at least, also knew how to do it.


    As Zhong Shan stepped forward, his reincarnation power surged towards the Reincarnation Jade Talisman.


    The two forces of reincarnation shed, and Zhong Shan''s power was immediately repelled.


    Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow. What was going on? Why couldn''t the forces merge?


    Zhong Shan had intended to take control of the Reincarnation Passage, but now he realized how naive that thought was. The opposing Reincarnation Passage was far more potent and immovable than his own.


    This was a true Reincarnation Passage, one that even Xuan Yuan, who could crush earth immortals, couldn''t resist. It was vastly superior to the passage Zhong Shan''s shadow clone had once opened, which was easily shattered by a mere golden immortal-level sorcerer.


    The function of reincarnation power was to open the Reincarnation Passage, but Zhong Shan noticed that the amount of reincarnation power in the jade talisman wasn''t much greater than his own. So why couldn''t he even touch the passage?


    A strange look crossed Zhong Shan''s face, but he continued to probe with his reincarnation power.


    Despite the repulsion, the forces were ultimately from the same source. Zhong Shan gradually uncovered the passage''s mysteries.


    While Zhong Shan had brute-forced his way to open a passage, the opposing force followed a profound and intricate path, creating a passage a hundred timesrger than his own.


    A profound path? The path of reincarnation?


    In a sh, Zhong Shan understood. It was like having raw inner strength but no refined martial arts,pared to an opponent who had both inner strength and advanced techniques. They could use finesse to move mountains with minimal effort.


    So reincarnation power could be used this way?


    It was as if a window had opened for Zhong Shan. With joy on his face, he used his reincarnation power to quicklyprehend the new method.


    This understanding was peculiar. It seemed incredibly difficult yet simple. For an outsider, it would be almost impossible, but for Zhong Shan, who had already mastered reincarnation power, it was an instant enlightenment.


    "Combine!" Zhong Shan shouted softly.


    "Boom!"


    The distant Reincarnation Passage emitted eerie rumbling sounds.


    The "big brother" who had beenughing maniacally abruptly stopped.


    "Huh? What''s going on?"


    The "big brother" watched in horror as the Reincarnation Passage began to shrink. Despite following the instructions his master had given him, the passage kept diminishing.


    "What''s happening? Why is it shrinking? Did the master deceive me? No, that''s impossible. Did the master buy a fake?" he shouted in panic.


    The green dragons and everyone present were equally bewildered. As Zhong Shan''s understanding deepened, his control over the reincarnation power grew, and the shrinking Reincarnation Passage became a testament to his newfound mastery.


    Seeing the opportunity, the two Xuan Yuans redoubled their efforts. Their strikes became more precise and fierce, coordinated with Zhong Shan''s powerful intervention. The Reincarnation Passage was now a battlefield, not of brute strength, but of intricate, profound techniques.


    "Boom!"


    Under Zhong Shan''s control, the Reincarnation Passage abruptly closed.


    "Nooooo!"


    The "big brother" screamed in disbelief, knowing that this failure could very well cost him his life.


    As expected, the furious Xuan Yuan, the moment the Reincarnation Passage began to shrink, looked up at the "big brother" with a murderous expression. His silver eyes suddenly emitted a beam of white light.


    "Big brother, where''s the Reincarnation Passage?"


    "Big brother, wasn''t it supposed tost an hour? Why is it gone?"


    The dragons also showed signs of panic.


    "He won''t answer you," the three Xuan Yuans said coldly in unison.


    The Xuan Yuan who had been suffering under the Reincarnation Passage''s power suddenly aimed his "First Duster" straight at the "big brother."


    The "big brother" stood frozen, seemingly petrified by fear.


    Frozen? Not exactly. The "big brother" couldn''t move at all. Under Xuan Yuan''s ring silver eyes, he seemed to lose control of his entire body, bing rigid and immobile.


    Xuan Yuan''s silver eyes possessed a unique power. Although they couldn''t suppress the Reincarnation Passage, they represented another manifestation of the Heavenly Dao.


    "Big brother, dodge!" a green dragon roared.


    But it was toote. Xuan Yuan''s "First Duster" reached him in an instant. The duster dispersed, shooting into his body.


    From head to toe, the man was pierced three thousand times by the duster''s strands, leaving no chance of survival.


    Immortals, despite their longevity and invulnerability, were not truly invincible.


    With a swift flick of his duster, Xuan Yuan turned his gaze to the remaining four green dragons.


    "Big brother!"


    Realizing the dire situation, a green dragon howled in despair. However, no amount of calling could save him. Xuan Yuan''s "First Duster" had not only pierced his immortal body but also destroyed his immortal soul. His life force waspletely extinguished.


    "Retreat!" Ao Lie shouted.


    "Roar!"


    The dragons, panicking, turned and fled. Immortals, with their long lives, valued their safety even more. The death of one immortal caused sadness, but the others wouldn''t sacrifice themselves for him.


    In an instant, the dragons disappeared from sight, and Xuan Yuan made no move to pursue them.


    The Xuan Yuan who had used his eye technique wavered slightly, showing the strain on his body. Like Zhong Shan, using such techniques took a toll on his physical strength.


    The three Xuan Yuans merged back into one, feeling much better this time.


    With the dragons gone, Zhong Shan closed his Eyes of Reincarnation and began to contemte. The Reincarnation Saint''s method of opening the Reincarnation Passage had given Zhong Shan significant insights. He now believed that if he attempted to open the passage again, it would be a hundred times more powerful than before.


    This newfound understanding greatly enhanced Zhong Shan''s strength, increasing it nearly tenfold.


    After merging, Xuan Yuan flew closer.


    Zhong Shan slowly opened his eyes.


    "Thank you for your help earlier," Xuan Yuan said gratefully.


    "If it weren''t for me, you would have found a way out anyway. Your eye technique renders your opponents immobile," Zhong Shan replied with a shake of his head.


    Xuan Yuan shook his head as well. "If I had used my eye technique while inside the Reincarnation Passage, you would now be looking at a gravely injured version of me."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    "Though the dragons have fled, I suspect they will return," Xuan Yuan sighed.


    "Sending six earth immortals shows their determination. What do you n to do?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I won''t let them return to the Yang Realm. I''ll stay here for the time being," Xuan Yuan said resolutely.


    "That''s unfortunate. We''ll head to the Tian Family first. If anythinges up, we''ll inform you," Zhong Shan said.


    Seeing through Zhong Shan''s original intentions, Xuan Yuan frowned slightly. "As part of my duties with the Creation God Pce, I can''t join you right now. However, if you find the Jingbo Pool and confirm it holds many souls from the Yang Realm, you can notify me."


    "Oh?"


    "I can''t leave here for long, but I can for a short time," Xuan Yuan said.


    Satisfied with Xuan Yuan''s assurance, Zhong Shan nodded.


    At that moment, Mr. Shi spoke up, "That immortal corpse, do you still need it?"


    "The immortal essence has leaked. I have no use for it. Do you want it?" Xuan Yuan asked, slightly surprised.


    Mr. Shi nodded.


    "Please, help yourself," Xuan Yuan said.


    Mr. Shi nodded and went to retrieve the corpse.


    "Farewell then," Zhong Shan said.


    "Take care," Xuan Yuan replied.


    Three dayster, guided by Wei Taizhong, Zhong Shan arrived at the so-called Tian Family.


    The ce was like a haven in the depths of hell, where yin energy gathered. Yet, the Tian Family''s location was brimming with yang energy, akin to a slice of heaven within the underworld. The area, asrge as Lingxiao Heavenly Court, was filled with purple qi and vitality.


    Countless ghosts dared not approach this area, detouring upon reaching its periphery.


    In the distance, towering mountains soared into the sky. asionally, members of the Tian Family could be seen flying or walking in various directions.


    As Zhong Shan and hispanions entered, they were struck by the abundance of spiritual energy, a hundred times denser than outside. They marveled at this paradise.


    Far away, five peaks pierced the clouds, radiating light in all directions. There were merits and fortunes aplenty, making it look like a celestial realm.


    "A purend in hell?" Yin Luoyue scoffed.


    "Every ce has its purends; you just haven''t noticed," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    While they spoke, a group of over ten men in white robes flew over.


    "Who goes there? State your names!" the leader, a young man of the Tian Family, demanded.


    "Zhong Shan of the Great Zheng Dynasty, requesting an audience with the Tian Family''s patriarch, Tian Jizi!" Zhong Shan replied, taking out a letter of introduction.


    With a flick of his wrist, the letter flew towards the group.


    "Just a small dynasty seeking an audience with our patriarch?" one of them sneered.


    The leader caught the letter, frowning. "Great Zheng Dynasty? The dynasty with the neen-wed fortune golden dragon?"

 Chapter 658: Tian Jizi

    <h4>Chapter 658: Tian Jizi</h4>


    "Great Zheng Dynasty? The dynasty with the neen-wed fortune golden dragon?" the leader eximed, ncing at the letter and then at Zhong Shan.


    "It seems my Great Zheng is notpletely unknown. Yes, it is indeed that Great Zheng. Please hand the letter to Tian Jizi," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Big brother, is this Great Zheng very famous?"


    "Big brother, it''s just a dynasty. Do they have the right to see the patriarch?"


    "I''ve heard the young master mention it. He holds it in high regard," the leader reassured the other disciples.


    "The young master?" the group was surprised.


    "You wait here! I''ll go see the patriarch," the leader said.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The leader gave the group onest look before flying to a distant peak, while the others stayed behind with Zhong Shan and hispanions.


    "Your Majesty, what should we do?" Wei Taizhong asked quietly.


    "Observe protocol first," Zhong Shan replied firmly.


    "Understood," Wei Taizhong nodded.


    "Protocol? First protocol, then force? Do you think you can fight on Tian Family grounds? Ha ha ha!" one of the arrogant Tian Family disciplesughed.


    "Ha ha ha..."


    The other disciples joined in theughter.


    Wei Taizhong''s eyes red with anger, Yin Luoyue frowned slightly, and Mr. Shi remained expressionless, while Zhong Shan seemed to ignore thempletely.


    Seeing that their mockery didn''t provoke a response, the Tian Family disciples snorted and fell silent.


    Before long, the man who had taken the letter returned.


    "The patriarch invites you. Please follow me," he said.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Amid the curious gazes of the Tian Family disciples, Zhong Shan and hispanions followed the man towards a massive southern peak. Theynded a distance away from the mountain.


    "Tian Family rules prohibit flying near the five peaks," the man exined.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded, following the man on foot towards the mountain.


    "The patriarch is waiting in the Tian Vein Hall. Pleasee with me," the man said again.


    "Tian Vein Hall?" Zhong Shan frowned suddenly.


    "What is it?" the man asked.


    "Isn''t this the Fate Peak? Why is it called the Tian Vein Hall?" Zhong Shan''s brows furrowed, recalling something peculiar.


    "Indeed, it is the Fate Peak. Our family''s main hall can only be called the ''Tian Vein Hall,''" the man replied matter-of-factly.


    Zhong Shan, however, couldn''t help but tighten his frown. The name ''Tian Vein Hall'' reminded him of another ce��the residence of the feng shui master Tian Lao in the former Great Luo Dynasty.


    To clear Gu Qianyou''s name, Zhong Shan had sought help from Tian Lao, whose hall was also named ''Tian Vein Hall.'' Zhong Shan had assumed it was a feng shui term, as Tian Lao belonged to the ''Heaven'' branch of feng shui. But now, things seemed off.


    "Do you know ''Tian Lao''?" Zhong Shan asked while walking.


    "Huh? You know the master of the Feng Shui Peak?" the man looked at Zhong Shan with surprise.


    "The master of the Feng Shui Peak? Tian Lao?" Zhong Shan echoed, equally surprised.


    "I am originally from the Feng Shui Peak. How do you know the name of our peak master? Not all Tian Family disciples are aware of it. How do you know?" the man looked at Zhong Shan seriously.


    "I have met Tian Lao several times," Zhong Shan replied oddly.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, the man gave him a strange look, then remained silent.


    As they walked towards the Fate Peak, there was no fortune or merit surrounding it, but countless green lights that seemed toe from the distant stars.


    Zhong Shan looked up, seeing the entire starry sky above. The green lights from the Fate Peak were drawn from those stars.


    The stars shone brightly, as if influenced by some formation, each flickering at a specific frequency.


    "Using the power of the stars to set up a defensive formation?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised. The Tian Family indeed had deep foundations.


    Beneath the Fate Peak, there were many buildings and numerous disciples moving around. No one stopped Zhong Shan''s group as they approached.


    Soon, they arrived in front of arge pce.


    The pce had the words "Tian Vein Hall" inscribed above it, with many guards stationed outside.


    "You wait here. I will report to the patriarch," the man said.


    "Alright."


    The man entered the pce and soon returned. "Come in."


    Zhong Shan brushed the dust off his clothes and entered with his threepanions.


    As they stepped inside, it felt as if they had entered the starry sky. Stars surrounded them on all sides, moving as if following the paths of destiny. The ceiling and floor were also filled with stars. Zhong Shan knew it was all an illusion, projections making the hall look like the depths of the cosmos.


    At the other end of the hall, an old man looking about sixty years old sat cross-legged, eyes closed, surrounded by endless stars. He seemed to be the master of all these stars.


    The old man had no overwhelming aura, blending seamlessly with the starry sky.


    As they entered, the old man slowly opened his eyes, a sharp gleam like a sword shing through them.


    "Great Zheng Dynasty? Emperor Zhong? And the Supreme Yin?" the old man stood up slowly.


    He appeared kind, but there was a subtle indifference beneath his kindness, a detachment from the world.


    "Greetings to the patriarch of the Tian Family," Zhong Shan said.


    "Greetings to the patriarch of the Tian Family," Yin Luoyue echoed.


    Wei Taizhong and Mr. Shi remained silent, standing behind Zhong Shan.


    "Supreme Yin, what brings you to my Tian Family today?" Tian Jizi asked with a faint smile.


    "I am temporarily staying with the Great Zheng Dynasty. As they say, when you take someone''s food, you should help them. I am apanying Emperor Zhong at his invitation," Yin Luoyue replied.


    "Oh? Emperor Zhong?" the old man looked at Zhong Shan, scrutinizing him.


    "A small dynasty like ours is probably beneath the notice of the Tian Family patriarch. I have a question I hope you can rify," Zhong Shan said, frowning.


    "Oh? Speak," Tian Jizi replied, staring at Zhong Shan.


    "In this underworld, there must be many with statuses like mine. You don''t personally receive each one, do you?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "A small emperor indeed does not warrant a personal meeting," Tian Jizi continued to smile, but there was a hint of arrogance in his tone.


    Just that one sentence revealed that beneath the kind exteriory a true madman.


    "Oh? Then why is that?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Because my son, Tian Xiao, has mentioned your name more than once. I wanted to see for myself one of the two future arms he speaks of," Tian Jizi said, staring at Zhong Shan with a wild gleam in his eyes.


    "One of the two future arms? Ha ha ha, Tian Family Patriarch, you jest!" Zhong Shanughed heartily.


    "It''s not me, it''s my son, Tian Xiao. However, I haven''t seen anything particrly extraordinary," Tian Jizi remarked.


    "Is that so? There are many who seek fame and those who spread rumors. I, Zhong Shan, do not have that fortune," Zhong Shan replied with a light smile.


    On the surface, Zhong Shan remained calm, but inside, he felt a chill. He sensed the contempt in Tian Jizi''s words, a tant disdain as if he were merely inspecting amodity. Normally, Zhong Shan would not bother with someone like this, but for Yinn''s sake, he endured the coldness in his heart.


    "Whether you have that fortune is your concern. Now, tell me, why have youe to my Tian Family?" Tian Jizi asked directly.


    Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed slightly. From Tian Jizi''s words, he discerned the patriarch''s real motive. Tian Jizi merely wanted to see if Zhong Shan was special and, having seen him, considered the matter settled. Zhong Shan realized he had only gained entry to the Tian Vein Hall because of Tian Xiao''s favor.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan decided to dispense with formalities. It was clear that Tian Jizi held him in low regard, and continuing with pleasantries would only be self-degrading.


    "I havee for the Jingbo Pool," Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "Oh?"


    Tian Jizi''s pupils contracted at the mention of the Jingbo Pool. His previously calm expression finally showed a hint of surprise.


    "I have a rtive who was thrown into the Jingbo Pool by your Tian Family. I ask the Tian Family Patriarch to reunite us," Zhong Shan requested earnestly.


    "I don''t know what you are talking about!" Tian Jizi took a deep breath, speaking coldly.


    But Zhong Shan continued, "Her name is Wei Yinn. She was captured at the entrance to the Yellow Springs Road by your Tian Family. You may not know her name, but you certainly know this."


    With that, Zhong Shan took out a memory crystal and activated it, projecting its contents.


    It showed Yinn being taken into the underworld by a Tian Family disciple.


    "Is it her?" Tian Jizi''s eyes widened in shock as he recognized Yinn.


    "Tian Family Patriarch finally remembers?" Zhong Shan asked with a hint of joy.


    However, a look of fierce anger quickly clouded Tian Jizi''s eyes.


    "Her? That cmity? Hmph!" Killing intent shed in Tian Jizi''s eyes.


    "Please return her to me," Zhong Shan stepped forward.


    "No!" Tian Jizi''s eyes turned cold.


    "No? Then please give me an exnation," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "An exnation? Who do you think you are?" Tian Jizi shouted, his anger not yet abated.


    Just as Zhong Shan was about to retort, an elderly female voice came from outside the hall.


    "Who has angered the Patriarch so much?"


    Everyone turned to see a short, ugly old woman with graying hair and a white robe, walking in slowly with the aid of a staff.


    "Tian Lao, you havee," Tian Jizi said, taking a deep breath.


    Tian Lao? Zhong Shan''s eyes nearly popped out. This old woman was called Tian Lao? The Feng Shui Peak Master, Tian Lao? Could it be a coincidence?


    No, it couldn''t be a coincidence. Both were named Tian Lao, both practiced feng shui, and both had residences called "Tian Vein Hall." This was too much to be a mere coincidence.


    "I haven''t left the Tian Family for two thousand years. I heard someone mentioned having met me several times, so I came to see," the female Tian Lao said calmly.


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    Everyone turned to look at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    "It''s you?" the female Tian Lao asked, frowning at Zhong Shan.


    "..."

 Chapter 659: Turning the Tian Family Upside Down

    <h4>Chapter 659: Turning the Tian Family Upside Down</h4>


    The female Tian Lao stared at Zhong Shan, rendering him momentarily speechless. Indeed, he knew someone named Tian Lao, but it wasn''t this woman. However, her arrival presented an opportunity for Zhong Shan, a chance to probe further.


    "I have indeed met Tian Lao a few times," Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh? Heh heh," the female Tian Lao chuckled oddly, while Tian Jizi sneered.


    "However, it wasn''t you," Zhong Shan added firmly.


    "Oh?" The female Tian Lao looked puzzled.


    "In the study of feng shui, there are the branches of Heaven, Earth, Man, Spirit, and Ghost. Tian Lao belongs to the Heaven branch. He was the imperial feng shui master of the former Great Luo Dynasty. Do you know of him?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Are there still Tian Family members alive in the Yang Realm?" the female Tian Lao frowned.


    "So there are still Tian Family members? My Tian Family''s lineage in the Yang Realm hasn''t ended?" Tian Jizi''s face lit up with a hint of eagerness in his eyes.


    "Didn''t Xiao Wang tell you?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "Xiao Wang?" Tian Jizi''s eyes narrowed.


    It was clear that Xiao Wang had never mentioned it. Moreover, only a few people in the Yang Realm knew about Tian Lao.


    "What is your rtionship with the Tian Lao in the Yang Realm?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at the female Tian Lao.


    "The Tian Family has five branches, each with its own master. I am Tian Lao, and so is he," the female Tian Lao said sternly.


    "When you met Tian Lao, did he give you anything?" Tian Jizi suddenly asked, his gaze fixed on Zhong Shan.


    "Anything?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Tian Family inheritors must possess certain items. Do you have any?" Tian Jizi''s eyes bore into Zhong Shan with a hint of madness.


    "Ha ha ha, Tian Family Patriarch, you must be joking. I have only met Tian Lao in the Yang Realm a few times. What could he give me? Or would you, Tian Family Patriarch, give me anything valuable just because we''ve met?" Zhong Shanughed immediately.


    Tian Jizi''s crazed expression seemed to soften slightly at Zhong Shan''s words.


    "Patriarch, if the Tian Family disciple in the Yang Realm ims the title of ''Tian Lao,'' then he is the master of the Feng Shui branch, not the Fate branch. He couldn''t have it," the female Tian Lao said to Tian Jizi.


    Upon hearing her words, Tian Jizi took a deep breath and gave Zhong Shan a long look, a trace of unwillingness in his eyes.


    "From the look on your face, it seems the Tian Family in the Yang Realm possesses something very valuable. What is it? Perhaps I know of it?" Zhong Shan asked, staring at Tian Jizi.


    Tian Jizi gave Zhong Shan a deep look. "Forget it. There''s no point in discussing it further."


    "Patriarch, do you still desire that item?" the female Tian Lao asked, frowning.


    "As the patriarch, that item should be under my control. Who would''ve thought that the Tian Family in the Yang Realm still has survivors," Tian Jizi sighed, a hint of displeasure shing in his eyes.


    Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes. Where was the previously indifferent Tian Jizi who regarded all beings with disdain? Now he was agitated over an item? What could this Tian Family item be? The Tian Order?


    Could it be the Tian Order? The token that his master left him and Ling''er. His master had said that the Tian Order contained great secrets of the Tian Family, secrets that even immortals of the Tian Family had not fully understood. Could it be the Tian Order?


    Of course, judging by Tian Jizi''s current demeanor, it was clear he wouldn''t care about the feelings of the Tian Family in the Yang Realm. If Zhong Shan took out the Tian Order, it would likely be snatched immediately, and he might even be killed to keep the secret.


    The Tian Family? The Tian Family of the Underworld! A chill ran through Zhong Shan''s heart once more.


    "Tian Family Patriarch, we are here only to reunite with my rtive. Please, show mercy and allow us to be together," Zhong Shan pleaded again.


    "She is not here. Leave," Tian Jizi dismissed with a wave of his sleeve, showing nopassion and giving no face to Zhong Shan.


    "Heh, actually, I spent some time with Tian Lao. I recall Tian Lao was very attached to a certain item," Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh?" Tian Jizi''s eyes lit up.


    The female Tian Lao also stared at Zhong Shan intently.


    "If the Tian Family Patriarch allows my rtive to be reunited with me, I will share everything I know about Tian Lao in the Yang Realm," Zhong Shan took a deep breath and stated.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s threat, Tian Jizi''s eyes narrowed. Suddenly, snowkes began to drift around them, and a sense of impending death enveloped Zhong Shan.


    "You have no right to bargain. Speak, what item was Tian Lao attached to?" Tian Jizi stepped forward.


    With this step, Tian Jizi''s previously restrained aura suddenly exploded forth. His immense power pressed down on Zhong Shan, reminiscent of the oppressive presence once emanated by the Divine Crow Dao Lord, overwhelmingly powerful.


    Even Yin Luoyue, with his Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivation, couldn''t help but twitch his eyelids.


    Zhong Shan appeared to be struggling under the pressure, barely able to breathe.


    "Alright, I will tell you. I hope that after I speak, the Tian Family Patriarch will provide a clear answer regarding my rtive," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    With Yinn at risk, Zhong Shan had no choice but topromise slightly.


    "Speak!"


    "The Purple Cotton Robe, a ninth-grade treasure of a Buddha in the Yang Realm. Eventually, I found it and gave it to Tian Lao," Zhong Shan said, then used magic to project an image of the Purple Cotton Robe.


    "You dare to deceive me?" Tian Jizi''s eyes widened in anger, clearly this was not what he wanted.


    "He is not lying to you," the female Tian Lao suddenly said.


    "Oh?" Tian Jizi frowned.


    "He intended to use it to refine the soul of a living Buddha, incorporating it into an important treasure of our Feng Shui branch," the female Tian Lao exined honestly.


    "Hmph!" Tian Jizi snorted coldly, then looked at Zhong Shan again.


    "Tian Family Patriarch, I have told you everything. Please, release my rtive from the Jingbo Pool. If it is difficult, I am willing to go there myself," Zhong Shan said once more.


    "Hmph, the Jingbo Pool is not a ce you can go. Without my patriarch''s order, anyone who goes there dies. As for you, the Tian Family does not wee you. Get out!" Tian Jizi said coldly.


    "And my rtive?" Zhong Shan''s eyes grew cold.


    "Get out!"


    At the mention of Yinn, an inexplicable rage seemed to well up in Tian Jizi, a wrath triggered by Yinn for reasons unknown.


    "The Tian Family is respected for guarding the Small Thousand World. However, do not think that because of the Tian Family''s strength, you can treat the people of the world as nothing. The Tian Family is merely a part of this Small Thousand World, not the ruler of it!" Zhong Shan finally erupted.


    Tian Jizi, ustomed to being at the pinnacle, had a skewed perception of others. Such a person no longer deserved Zhong Shan''s polite words.


    "So what?" Tian Jizi replied coldly.


    "No family prospers forever. If the Tian Family Patriarch continues like this, your position as the number one family will surely be reced," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "Reced? Ha ha ha, reced? The Tian Family has stood in the underworld for tens of thousands of years. Who could rece us?" Tian Jizi sneered.


    However, his anger seemed to subside slightly, perhaps because he remembered that his son, Tian Xiao, had said something simr. But who could rece the Tian Family? Their foundation was unshakeable.


    "And what if the whole world turns against you?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Tian Jizi''s eyes widened. Just as he was about to retort, Wei Taizhong suddenly knelt down.


    "Patriarch Tian, Yinn is my grandniece. Please, let her reunite with us. I beg you!" Wei Taizhong knelt and began to kowtow fervently.


    Wei Taizhong realized that Zhong Shan had thoroughly shed with Tian Jizi, making reconciliation impossible. Under such circumstances, Tian Jizi would be even less likely to release Yinn. Wei Taizhong had only one rtive left.


    Seeing Wei Taizhong''s desperate kneeling, Zhong Shan felt a pang of sorrow. Wei Taizhong had never begged anyone like this before, except for him.


    "And who are you? A mere clown, daring tomand me!" Tian Jizi''s eyes shed with anger.


    "Poof!"


    Wei Taizhong, unable to withstand the oppressive aura, spat out a mouthful of blood. Despite this, he continued kowtowing, ignoring his injuries.


    "Patriarch Tian, please release Yinn. I will give you anything you want," Wei Taizhong pleaded, crying bitterly.


    "Enough!" Zhong Shan''s cold shout echoed through the hall.


    Everyone was stunned by themanding tone.


    "Taizhong, get up. This man is not worth your kneeling. The Tian Family? Ha ha, the Tian Family? We are leaving!" Zhong Shan roared in anger.


    "But, Your Majesty, Yinn..." Wei Taizhong struggled to get up, heavily injured by Tian Jizi''s aura.


    Tian Jizi smirked coldly.


    "We wille back another day," Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said.


    "But, Your Majesty..." Wei Taizhong was still reluctant.


    "You are not wee here, even if my son, Tian Xiao, has taken you in. You will never set foot in the Tian Vein Hall again," Tian Jizi said disdainfully.


    Zhong Shan raised his head and gave Tian Jizi a deep look. "Patriarch Tian, I will prove my words. In a few days, I, Zhong Shan, will return to the Tian Family. I will make you understand the meaning of regret and upheaval!"


    "You think you can turn the Tian Family upside down? Fine, let''s see if you have the ability!" Tian Jiziughed mockingly.


    "I will return. Without your patriarch''s order, I will enter the Jingbo Pool myself," Zhong Shan retorted coldly.


    Turning around, Zhong Shan walked out of the hall.


    Yin Luoyue supported the injured Wei Taizhong, while Mr. Shi followed closely. They came with hope and left with humiliation and hatred.


    Yin Luoyue frowned, puzzled as to why Zhong Shan had shed so violently with Tian Jizi, while Mr. Shi remained expressionless, though his eyes showed a hint of pity for the Tian Family disciples.


    Mr. Shi knew Zhong Shan''s capabilities. Zhong Shan was furious, and he always followed through on his words.


    Watching Zhong Shan and his group leave, Tian Jizi sneered, "Is this the person Tian Xiao wanted to recruit? All show and no substance, arrogant and conceited!"


    The female Tian Lao, however, gave a deep look at the departing figures, a sh of worry in her eyes. She had a bad feeling but quickly dismissed it. How much trouble could these few people cause?

 Chapter 660: The First Step, Destroying Reputation

    <h4>Chapter 660: The First Step, Destroying Reputation</h4>


    Zhong Shan, brimming with anger, led his group out of the Tian Family''s gates. The severe injury to Wei Taizhong and the humiliation Zhong Shan endured had ignited a long-dormant fury within him.


    The contempt from Tian Jizi, along with his dismissive attitude, made it clear to Zhong Shan that further conversation would be futile. Rather than continuing to suffer insults at the Tian Family, it was better to leave and start making preparations.


    Zhong Shan had anticipated difficulties in rescuing Yinn, but he hadn''t expected Tian Jizi to be such a person.


    Leaving the Tian Family, standing among the endless hordes of ghosts in hell, Zhong Shan cast onest deep look at the vast area upied by the Tian Family.


    "Your Majesty, you mentioned ''observe protocol first.'' What if protocol fails?" Wei Taizhong asked anxiously.


    "Then we resort to force," Zhong Shan replied angrily.


    "Force? You want to attack the Tian Family? Are you crazy?" Yin Luoyue eximed.


    "Excuse me?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow at Yin Luoyue.


    "Just now, aside from Tian Jizi, I sensed four other presences that threatened me. Tian Jizi, the female Tian Lao, and those four presences��at least six Heavenly Extreme Realm experts, not counting Tian Xiao who is currently away. Seven Heavenly Extreme Realm experts. You want to attack the Tian Family?" Yin Luoyue said in disbelief.


    "Seven Heavenly Extreme Realm experts? Is that a lot?" Zhong Shan asked coldly, his eyes shing with a steely glint.


    Yin Luoyue: "..."


    "Your Majesty, perhaps we could plead with Tian Jizi again. Yinn is in their hands; we can''t afford any harm toe to her," Wei Taizhong said worriedly.


    "Impossible. Tian Jizi is too arrogant. In his eyes, aside from the Tian Family disciples, everyone else is insignificant. Begging would be futile," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Then what do you n to do? The Tian Family has seven Heavenly Extreme Realm experts. How will you manage? Are you thinking of seeking help from the Yang Realm? Even if we include Xuan Yuan, he can only match Tian Jizi at best. What about the rest?" Yin Luoyue asked, frowning.


    "Help from the Yang Realm? Not necessary. There are plenty of powerful beings in the Underworld," Zhong Shan replied seriously.


    "The Underworld?" Yin Luoyue was slightly taken aback.


    "I intend to make the Tian Family chaotic, to turn their world upside down. I want to bring down a host of powerful beings upon them, making them crumble. I will need your cooperation for this," Zhong Shan said.


    "I can''t fight Tian Jizi, and those other Heavenly Extreme Realm threats are either stronger than me or at least equal," Yin Luoyue quickly shook his head.


    "I don''t need you to fight," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "What? You don''t need me to fight?" Yin Luoyue was stunned. The Tian Family''s foundation was its Heavenly Extreme Realm experts. If not for fighting, how would Zhong Shan deal with them?


    "Your Majesty, I may have a useful secret technique," Mr. Shi suddenly said.


    "You? Using the Buddha Corpse? Impossible. Even though the Buddha Corpse was a Heavenly Extreme Realm expert in life, as a zombie, its strength is only around the Emperor Extreme Realm," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "No, not the zombie. I mean a Heaven Ghost," Mr. Shi said solemnly.


    "A Heaven Ghost?" Everyone looked at Mr. Shi in confusion.


    "Recently, I acquired an immortal corpse. Using it, I can perform a ghost ritual to summon billions of ghostly entities, merging them into a powerful Heaven Ghost. However, this method goes against the natural order," Mr. Shi said with a hint of regret.


    "What level of strength would the Heaven Ghost have?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "He should be no weaker than the Supreme Yin," Mr. Shi said gravely.


    Yin Luoyue looked at Mr. Shi with a mixture of curiosity and bewilderment. Who was this man, who not only knew so much about the Great Thousand World but also could summon something called a ''Heaven Ghost''? What was a Heaven Ghost anyway?


    "Good, good, good!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "But it will take three months," Mr. Shi added.


    "I''ll give you three months," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty."


    Zhong Shan then took out a jade slip, recorded a message in it, and handed it to Wei Taizhong.


    "Taizhong, take this jade slip to Xuan Yuan. Tell him that I''ve found the Jingbo Pool and that we will storm it together soon," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood!" Wei Taizhong responded immediately.


    "You found the Jingbo Pool? How did you find it?" Yin Luoyue asked incredulously.


    "Just now, when we entered the Tian Family," Zhong Shan replied honestly.


    Zhong Shan''s shadow bodies had unparalleled stealth capabilities, and his search for the Jingbo Pool was facilitated by multipleyers of formations. These formations would be imprable for most, but his shadow bodies were immune to them. However, upon finding the Jingbo Pool, he encountered an incredibly powerful guardian from the Tian Family, whose overwhelming aura forced Zhong Shan to retreat.


    Yin Luoyue gave Zhong Shan a puzzled look. Was he telling the truth? He had been with them the entire time. How could he have found it?


    Naturally, Zhong Shan didn''t mention his shadow bodies.


    "Alright, Supreme Yin, let''s go. We need to find peerless experts within three months to shake up the Tian Family!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Three months? To find a group of peerless experts? How will you do that? Do you know how vast this world is? It takes six months just to travel from the Great Zheng to here. How many can you find in three months? And will they even agree toe?" Yin Luoyue asked, his skepticism clear.


    Five dayster, Mr. Shi began his ritual to summon a Heaven Ghost using the immortal corpse in the depths of hell. Wei Taizhong was on his way to deliver Zhong Shan''s message to Xuan Yuan. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan and Yin Luoyue returned to the city they had previously visited, and went back to the same inn.


    "Sir, thank you so much! The price of the Sumeru Stones has really skyrocketed!" the innkeeper said excitedly.


    "Oh? The price of Sumeru Stones has increased significantly?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "Yes, there were a few drops in between, but it went up again. It''s now dozens of times what it was before. Everyone in the city is scrambling for Sumeru Stones," the innkeeper said, ted.


    "Is that so? It seems we are nearing the peak," Zhong Shan mused, frowning slightly.


    Yin Luoyue, now aware of the Heaven Copse n, listened to the innkeeper''s report with a strange expression.


    "Sir, do you think I should sell my Sumeru Stones now?"


    "Hmm?"


    "The price is so high now, I''m scared it might drop. It''s already increased by dozens of times. I''m worried it might crash," the innkeeper said, anxious.


    "Don''t worry. Wait until there are no more Sumeru Stones avable in the market, then you can sell," Zhong Shan advised with a smile.


    "Alright, I''ll follow your advice!" the innkeeper said excitedly.


    "Make sure no one disturbs me," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes, sir. From today, our inn will not be open for business. We will focus solely on serving you," the innkeeper replied happily.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    "This time, all your food and lodging expenses are on me, sir. Don''t worry about anything!" the innkeeper said generously.


    The innkeeper had spent a fortune buying Sumeru Stones and, thanks to Zhong Shan, had earned wealth equivalent to hundreds of years of earnings. This was all because of Zhong Shan. Just a little guidance from him was worth more than the inn''s profits. Serving Zhong Shan well was now his priority.


    "Innkeeper, I need a favor," Zhong Shan said.


    "Anything you need, sir!"


    "I need you to make ten thousand copies of this jade slip and hire people to spread it throughout the Xingdou Empire and the empire where Tian Xiao is currently residing. Can you do that?" Zhong Shan handed over a jade slip.


    "Well..." The innkeeper frowned slightly.


    "These are just some facts to spread. Of course, I willpensate you appropriately," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    After the innkeeper left, Yin Luoyue turned to Zhong Shan and asked, "What''s in that jade slip?"


    "The events that transpired at the Blood Sea of Sinking and Floating. With a bit of embellishment, of course," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Are you nning to involve Xing Tai Dou?"


    "Not just Xing Tai Dou, but also the people of the Immortal World and Master Shenxiu," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Xing Tai Dou might agree, but what about the people of the Immortal World and Shenxiu? After theirst failure, will they be willing toe again?" Yin Luoyue frowned.


    "I will persuade Xing Tai Dou. After all, he has already confronted the Tian Family once. As for the people of the Immortal World, since they chose to shelter Xing Tai Dou, they must have prepared to confront the Tian Family. Besides, they are already here. A little push will make them our allies," Zhong Shan said earnestly.


    "And Shenxiu? He is not part of the Immortal World and is rumored to be very afraid of death. Will hee?" Yin Luoyue frowned.


    "That''s why I made preparations earlier," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "The Blood Sea of Sinking and Floating incident? How will that work?" Yin Luoyue asked, frowning.


    "I will spread the embellished events throughout the Tian Family. That''s half the battle won. If it spreads throughout the world, Shenxiu will have no choice but to act," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Why? Even if Shenxiu set up a feng shui formation, he wouldn''t risk his life again for that," Yin Luoyue said, confused.


    "But the formation involves Tian Xiao."


    "Tian Xiao? I don''t see him as a petty person."


    "Tian Xiao is not petty, and he has a broad perspective. However, in this matter, he cannot afford to be careless. He must seek out Shenxiu, even at the cost of mobilizing the entire Tian Family."


    "Impossible. How could that be? Victory and defeat aremon in warfare. Tian Xiao wouldn''t overreact to one setback. Everyone grows through setbacks," Yin Luoyue said, still skeptical.


    "You still don''t understand. The Tian Family is the number one force in the world, and Tian Xiao is the heir apparent. It''s like a crown prince of a kingdom; before ascending to the throne, his every move is scrutinized. Especially in the Tian Family, which has a legacy of tens of thousands of years, Tian Jizi is clearly preparing to transcend. When that happens, who will inherit the position of patriarch? Tian Xiao has the best chance, but he is not the only contender. There are definitely others eyeing the position."


    "So, what are you implying?" Yin Luoyue seemed to have an inkling.


    "The first step is to destroy his reputation," Zhong Shan said with a deep breath.


    "Destroy his reputation?"


    "To lead the Tian Family, one''s reputation is crucial. If Tian Xiao''s reputation is tarnished, he will find it difficult tomand the vast Tian Family. The Tian Family''s position as the top force in the world also depends on an impable reputation. Tian Xiao understands that before bing the patriarch, his path must be smooth. Tarnished reputation will cost him greatly. To restore his reputation, he will have to kill Shenxiu."


    "Our goal is to tarnish Tian Xiao''s reputation and incite Shenxiu''s fear, leading Shenxiu to retaliate?" Yin Luoyue finally understood.

 Chapter 661: Yi Lanque

    <h4>Chapter 661: Yi Lanque</h4>


    Under the onught of the Ling Stones, Zhong Shan''s strategy was quickly implemented.


    The first step was to destroy Tian Xiao''s reputation to provoke Shenxiu.


    To storm the Tian Family again, Shenxiu was indispensable. Feng shui masters were unique; without one, they would be at a severe disadvantage in the Tian Family, which had a master of the Feng Shui branch. Zhong Shan was certain Shenxiu was in the Xingdou Empire because the Immortal World and Xing Tai Dou had visited recently. That time, the Immortal World had gone with a n, undoubtedly bringing a feng shui master, likely Shenxiu.


    After their recent defeat against the Tian Family, Shenxiu, being cautious, would not want to go again. Zhong Shan intended to force him into it, using the future reputation of the Tian Family''s heir to provoke Shenxiu.


    The many powerful individuals who had lost everything due to the Heaven Copse n became the best workforce for Zhong Shan. He had plenty of Ling Stones and the task was simple. Numerous strong individuals were sent out by Zhong Shan, spreading exaggerated rumors that discredited Tian Xiao.


    The news spread quickly, reaching the camps of the two empires.


    In the pce where Xing Tai Dou resided, Ye Qingcheng and Shenxiu were ying chess.


    "Master Shenxiu, your chess skills are impressive!" Ye Qingcheng said with a smile.


    "Lord Ye, when are we leaving? We have already tried to break into the Tian Family, but it''s impossible. The Feng Shui master of the Tian Family, Tian Lao, is as skilled as I am. There''s nothing we can do," Shenxiu said, frowning as he ced a piece.


    "Since we''re here, let''s wait a bit longer. Didn''t we agree on this earlier?" Ye Qingcheng replied, frowning slightly, having noticed Shenxiu''s desire to leave.


    "Lord Ye, are you using Xing Tai Dou to test the Tian Family?" Shenxiu asked, looking at Ye Qingcheng.


    "Heh, test?" Ye Qingcheng smiled without answering.


    "The Immortal World and the Eternal World have been around for nearly ten thousand years. Are you bing discontent with being a regional power?" Shenxiu asked, frowning.


    "What makes you think that?" Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "I don''t want to get involved in this. The struggle between the Immortal World and the Tian Family is your problem. I can''t help you," Shenxiu said decisively, his desire to leave clear.


    Just as Ye Qingcheng''s expression turned sour, another person appeared beside them: the former Emperor of the Great Yan Dynasty, now the Emperor of the Xingdou Empire, Xing Tai Dou.


    "Ha ha ha, Master Shenxiu, your reputation is growing!" Xing Tai Douughed as he arrived.


    "Huh?" Shenxiu frowned at Xing Tai Dou.


    "Everyone now knows that Master Shenxiu''s feng shui skills are unmatched, manipting the young master of the Tian Family like a puppet. The future heir of the Tian Family is just a puppet under your control," Xing Tai Douughed.


    "What do you mean?" Shenxiu frowned, sensing something was wrong but unable to pinpoint it.


    "I just received this jade slip. Take a look for yourself," Xing Tai Dou said, handing over the jade slip.


    As an emperor, Xing Tai Dou saw through Zhong Shan''s n despite itsyers of deception. It was aimed at Shenxiu, to provoke fear and madness.


    Shenxiu immediately examined the jade slip.


    "This article is well-written, showcasing Master Shenxiu''s unparalleled feng shui skills. Even the highly esteemed young master of the Tian Family is under your control. Once Tian Xiao inherits the Tian Family, it will further highlight your strength. The five branches of Heaven, Earth, Man, Spirit, and Ghost will surely re-rank, recognizing you as the top feng shui master," Xing Tai Douughed.


    Next to him, Ye Qingcheng also understood. If Tian Xiao''s reputation was ruined, he would undoubtedly seek trouble with Shenxiu once he became the patriarch.


    "Top feng shui master of the current era? Manipting the Tian Family''s head?" Shenxiu began to sweat profusely.


    "Where did thise from?" Shenxiu stood up anxiously.


    "It''s spreading throughout the Xingdou Empire. It seems to be reaching Tian Xiao''s empire as well. Within three days, all the Tian Family members in the vicinity will know, and it''s likely to spread further. I don''t know who is helping us, but once these ''facts'' are known, our morale will soar while Tian Xiao''s troops'' morale will plummet," Xing Tai Dou said with a smile.


    "Quick, stop them!" Shenxiu shouted in panic.


    "It''s toote. The word is already out," Xing Tai Dou shook his head.


    "Pa!" Shenxiu slumped back into his seat, looking utterly dejected.


    Ye Qingcheng and Xing Tai Dou exchanged a nce and left Shenxiu alone.


    "Who could be behind this?" Ye Qingcheng asked.


    "Hmm, I''ve already sent people to investigate. However, these facts benefit us. At least, Shenxiu won''t be in such a hurry to leave anymore," Xing Tai Dou nodded.


    "Indeed."


    In Tian Xiao''s camp.


    Tian Xiao reviewed the reports, admiration evident in his eyes. In front of him stood two rows of trusted aides.


    "Xiao Wang, did Zhong Shan reallye up with this?" Tian Xiao asked in amazement.


    "Yes. In the Yang Realm, he devised the ''Heaven Copse n'' that destroyed the powerful Great Yu Empire. The n spread across the world, causing other empires to take precautions. You could say Zhong Shan earned his ce as one of Shenzhou''s top military strategists with that n. He used a small amount of spirit stones to bring down an entire empire. Such strategic use ofmerce in warfare is unparalleled," Xiao Wang replied, full of admiration.


    "Wasn''t this ''Heaven Copse n'' against the Xingdou Empire your doing?" Tian Xiao asked with a smile.


    "I merely followed Zhong Shan''s example. The original n was entirely his creation," Xiao Wang replied modestly.


    "No, while Zhong Shan is undoubtedly brilliant, you also deserve credit. This ''Heaven Copse n'' is not something anyone can execute. The precision required is immense, with no room for error," Tian Xiao said, smiling.


    "Thank you for thepliment, young master," Xiao Wang said, shaking his head.


    "Zhong Shan? Heh, do you know about the recent rumors in the city?" Tian Xiao asked.


    "Yes, I''ve heard bits and pieces. It''s about Shenxiu," Xiao Wang nodded.


    "Commander, it''s a ploy by the Xingdou Empire to weaken our troops'' morale," a subordinate said.


    Tian Xiao shook his head.


    "No? Then why are they ndering you,mander?" the subordinate asked.


    "The information was leaked by a third party," Xiao Wang said immediately.


    "A third party? Who?" the subordinate asked.


    "We haven''t pinpointed it yet," Xiao Wang replied.


    "Do you know Zhong Shan has already visited the Tian Family?" Tian Xiao said with a peculiar smile.


    "Zhong Shan went to the Tian Family?" Xiao Wang asked in surprise.


    "Yes, a few days ago, to see my father. Unfortunately, they had a falling out, and Zhong Shan threatened to turn the Tian Family upside down," Tian Xiao said with a smile.


    "Hahaha!" The subordinatesughed loudly, finding Zhong Shan''s threat ridiculous.


    "Young master, are you suggesting that this third party is Zhong Shan?" Xiao Wang frowned.


    Theughter stopped abruptly.


    "It must be him!" Tian Xiao said with a hint of amusement in his eyes.


    "What is your n, young master?" Xiao Wang asked, concerned.


    "You''ve spoken highly of Zhong Shan, but these are just rumors. Let''s see what Zhong Shan is truly capable of," Tian Xiao said, a look of assessment on his face.


    "But the Tian Family..." Xiao Wang expressed his worry.


    "The Tian Family''s foundation cannot be easily shaken by outsiders. However, I doubt Zhong Shan''s abilities are limited to what we''ve seen. There must be more toe. Let him stir things up; it''ll also serve as a wake-up call for my father, whosecency needs to be checked," Tian Xiao said thoughtfully.


    "Understood!" Xiao Wang responded.


    "Keep a close watch on any movements across thend. With the Heaven Copse n as a precedent, I want to see what new strategies Zhong Shan will employ!" Tian Xiao said with appreciation.


    "Yes!" The subordinates responded immediately.


    Back at the inn where Zhong Shan was staying.


    Zhong Shan and Yin Luoyue sat in the main hall, listening to the innkeeper talk about the happenings outside.


    "Innkeeper, we will leave this afternoon. Thank you for your hospitality these past few days," Zhong Shan said.


    "You''re leaving, sir?" The innkeeper said with regret.


    "People have to move on. The spirit stones I gave you for the task can also cover the costs of our stay," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood! I won''t disturb you any further," the innkeeper said with a hint of disappointment before leaving.


    After the innkeeper left, Yin Luoyue looked at Zhong Shan, "Has the propaganda worked?"


    "Of course. By now, Shenxiu must be panicking, eager to see the whole world rise against the Tian Family," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "What''s our next step?" Yin Luoyue asked again.


    "It''s a pity that I don''t have my own people in the Xingdou Empire, making things less convenient. The first step, ruining Tian Xiao''s reputation, is easy. The second step will have to wait until we reach the capital. Besides, there will be many people seeking us out here," Zhong Shan said.


    At that moment, the innkeeper returned.


    "Two sirs, someone outside is looking for you!" the innkeeper announced.


    "See? They''vee!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Let them in," Zhong Shan instructed.


    Soon, the innkeeper returned with a man in blue robes. The man was strikingly handsome, with his hair tied back neatly, exuding a charming and elegant aura. His blue robe was embroidered with unknown flowers, and he held a folding fan that he never opened.


    "I am Yi Lanque. Greetings to Emperor Zhong Shan and Supreme Yin," the man said upon entering, immediately recognizing Zhong Shan and Yin Luoyue.


    After a polite bow, he smiled at the two.


    "You know us?" Yin Luoyue raised an eyebrow.


    "Your names are well-known, resounding like thunder in my ears. How could I not recognize you? I''ve long wished to meet you. Learning that you were in this city, I took the liberty toe. I hope you don''t mind," Yi Lanque said with the demeanor of a refined gentleman.


    "Oh? How much do you know about us?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Once, when the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty used ancient divine powers to open a rift between the yin and yang realms, someone fell right before me and became my friend. Emperor Zhong Shan, your Heaven Copse n that toppled the Great Yu Empire and involved the ''Elixir of Immortality'' is well-known. It stirred the world and even affected the Blissful Land of the Holy ce. I was very impressed. I run a business association and heard there was another Heaven Copse n here, so I rushed over. Unfortunately, it wasn''t your doing. But to my surprise, you are indeed here. A loss on one side, a gain on the other," Yi Lanque exined.


    Yi Lanque''s tone gradually shifted to focus on Zhong Shan, seemingly ignoring Yin Luoyue, who was a formidable Heavenly Extreme Realm expert. Zhong Shan quickly deduced that this visitor must hold a significant position and was well aware of his Great Zheng Dynasty.

 Chapter 662: The Second Step, A Lone Man

    <h4>Chapter 662: The Second Step, A Lone Man</h4>


    Zhong Shan and Yin Luo Yue were led to another dwelling by Yi Lan Que.


    "Please stay here for the time being. I need to handle some matters, and I will find you again tomorrow!" Yi Lan Que said with a smile.


    "Please, go ahead," Zhong Shan nodded.


    As soon as Yi Lan Que left, Yin Luo Yue''s brows furrowed deeply.


    "Do you believe his nonsense?" Yin Luo Yue asked, puzzled.


    "Why wouldn''t I?" Zhong Shan replied with a faint smile.


    "He said he came out of curiosity to see us and imed he would fully support us, just to witness your strategy in person. Isn''t that an obvious lie?" Yin Luo Yue said, looking skeptical.


    "Does it matter?" Zhong Shan countered.


    "It doesn''t?" Yin Luo Yue asked, now confused by Zhong Shan''s strange response.


    "Heh, whether he is a friend or foe doesn''t matter, at least not right now. The important thing is that he is not from the Tian family or Xing Taidou''s faction. He is from a fourth party," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Huh?"


    "Regardless of his motives, it doesn''t matter right now. I don''t want to know, nor do I need to. As long as his influence here can be used toplete my n, that''s all that matters," Zhong Shan said.


    "But he figured out that you''re targeting Shen Xiu and even knew we had been to the Tian family!" Yin Luo Yue still seemed worried.


    "Targeting Shen Xiu? Is that hard to guess? Xing Taidou, Ye Qingcheng, and Tian Xiao certainly know this is aimed at Shen Xiu. There''s nothing surprising about that. And as for going to the Tian family? That''s not hard to find out either. Do you know how many people have their eyes on the Tian family? Many people surely knew we visited," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Alright, but aren''t you curious about who he is?"


    "Who he is? Are you afraid?"


    "Why would I be afraid? Can he stop me?"


    "If he can''t stop us, then what is there to worry about? Actually, when I heard his name, I already had a good guess about his identity," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Oh?"


    "Thest Heavenly Dynasty of the Underworld, the Yi family of the Great You Heavenly Dynasty!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh? How can you be so sure?"


    "The Yi family has a peerless genius who was also the young master of the Yi family. He was in the spotlight three hundred years ago, but suddenly fellter. However, did he really fall? Because of this young master, the Yi family rose to be the leader of the four great families. After his death, the Yi family did not decline but became even stronger. Moreover, I have researched his cause of death, and it was very suspicious," Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    "Huh? You''ve even researched the families of the Great You Heavenly Dynasty?" Yin Luo Yue asked incredulously.


    "The world''s major powers must be investigated. It''s impossible to know every small force, but major powers must be thoroughly studied," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "As expected, none of the emperors are easy to deal with!" Yin Luo Yue looked at Zhong Shan with a strange expression.


    The next day.


    "Zhong Shan, as you predicted, Shen Xiu is now unwilling to leave and frequently incites Ye Qingcheng and Xing Taidou to fight the Tian family again!" Yi Lan Que said with a smile.


    "Oh? Your people have infiltrated the Xingdou Imperial Pce?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly surprised.


    "No, a pce eunuch leaked the information," Yi Lan Que said, twirling his fan.


    Zhong Shan knew Yi Lan Que wouldn''t admit it, so he just smiled and didn''t pursue the matter.


    "Are you really willing to follow me in disrupting the Tian family?" Zhong Shan asked, staring at Yi Lan Que.


    "No, no, no, I dare not go to the Tian family. At most, I can cheer for you. My cultivation is too low, and my guild doesn''t have any top experts. Going there would be a death sentence. However, if there are small matters beforehand, I can handle them. Of course, I am more interested in seeing how you make the Tian family take a big fall!" Yi Lan Que said with a smile.


    "That''s fine. Having your guild''s help is already more than I could ask for," Zhong Shan replied.


    "So, what is the next step in your ''Heaven-Overturning n''?" Yi Lan Que pressed on.


    "Heaven-Overturning n?" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    "Isn''t making the Tian family turn upside down a Heaven-Overturning n?" Yi Lan Que said.


    Zhong Shan: "......".


    "If you need anything else, just let me know!" Yi Lan Que pledged.


    "Very well, I''ll take you up on that offer," Zhong Shan said with a strange smile.


    "What is the second step?"


    "The second step is to make them a lone wolf," Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    "Oh?"��


    At Tian Xiao''s camp!


    "Any news about Zhong Shan?" Tian Xiao asked his subordinates.


    "None. He left that inn ten days ago and hasn''t been seen since!" a subordinate reported.


    "Any unusual news or changes outside?" Tian Xiao frowned.


    "None!" the subordinate replied.


    "Young master, I''ve noticed some strange phenomena!" Xiao Wang suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh?" Tian Xiao frowned.


    "The Heaven-Crushing n is now at a critical moment of the first phase, and I''ve discovered arge influx of financial resources into the market, helping us!" Xiao Wang said.


    "Helping us?"


    "Yes, exactly. It''s helping us to cause more chaos in the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty, pushing it further into copse!" Xiao Wang exined.


    "Could it be someone seeing the opportunity and following us in the Su Mi Stone market?" a subordinate asked.


    "It''s not that simple. These financial resources are not just following the Su Mi Stone market but are also making the people of the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty more frantic, increasing their debts. When the first phase of the Heaven-Crushing n hits, it will bring endless disasters to the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty, with everyone turning into bandits, causing it topletely copse," Xiao Wang said seriously.


    "Oh? Helping us? Who can help so precisely? In amercial war, anyone other than you, who is leading the charge, would be crushed. To survive and still help us? This person must understand the Heaven-Crushing n as well as you, if not better. Who could it be?" Tian Xiaoughed.


    "It''s Zhong Shan. It can only be him. But why would he help us? Isn''t he targeting the Tian family? Why help us?" Xiao Wang frowned.


    "We''ll have to wait and see what kind of tricks Zhong Shan is ying!" Tian Xiaoughed.


    On a floating ind, Zhong Shan looked at the restless citizens below, his eyes filled with seriousness.


    "Zhong Shan, you are intensifying the first phase of the Heaven-Crushing n. Isn''t this too ruthless?" Yi Lan Que frowned.


    "Xing Taidou is not Nn Piaoxue. He is an emperor and acts with intelligence. The subsequent phases of the Heaven-Crushing n would be difficult to implement on him. So, I have tobine the second, third, and fourth phases into the first phase to ensure Xing Taidou''s total defeat in this initial phase!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Oh?" Yi Lan Que looked puzzled but saw a faint smile on Zhong Shan''s lips.


    "Moreover, considering thest grand birthday celebration for Ye Qingcheng at five thousand years, it''s likely that the celebration for his five thousand four hundred and thirty-second birthday ising soon," Zhong Shan recalled.


    "True, but Ye Qingcheng never celebrates those irregr birthdays," Yi Lan Que noted.


    "Then we shall throw him a grand celebration!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Oh?"


    "The second step, a lone wolf! The Lord of the Immortal Realm is key to this."


    Half a monthter, the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty was utterly in chaos. The Su Mi Stones had vanished as if they had evaporated into thin air. The cities were in disarray, with rampant looting, arson, and murder, far worse than the chaos of the Great Yu Imperial Dynasty in the mortal realm.


    A treasure map sparked widespread ughter, and multiple maps caused six out of ten houses in many cities to be emptied as city guards, soldiers, and even ministers left to search for treasures.


    The vast capital city of Xingdou was deste. Even the court meetings had seven or eight ministers absent.


    The Xingdou Imperial Dynasty was finished. It had copsed inexplicably and thoroughly.


    Xing Taidou did not berate his ministers but instead patiently reassured them. After they left, he sat alone on his throne, looking dejected.


    He sat there all day, until night fell.


    "Tian Xiao? You are too ruthless, too ruthless!" Xing Taidou said with a tragic expression.


    It was indeed ruthless. The Xingdou Imperial Dynasty waspletely ruined. Xing Taidou had lost both in personalbat and in this grand strategy against this young upstart. Was Xing Taidou truly so vulnerable before the Tian family?


    "Your Majesty!" an old eunuch beside him said worriedly.


    "I''m fine. You''ve been by my side all these years, thank you for your hard work," Xing Taidou said, somewhat despondent.


    "It''s not hard, as long as I can be by Your Majesty''s side. It''s just a pity for those oldrades who were all killed by the Tian family," the old eunuch sighed deeply.


    With heavy steps, Xing Taidou slowly walked out of the hall, standing at a high point overlooking the entire Xingdou City. More than half of the citizens had left; the city no longer looked like a city, the country no longer like a country. A sense of destion surged in Xing Taidou''s heart, like the setting sun of old age, filling him with mncholy.


    In the past, Xing Taidou would never have such emotions. Only after a mental blow would such a scene of restlessness ur.


    The old eunuch stood beside Xing Taidou, like a shadow, apanying him.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, a sharp crack resounded in Xingdou City, and a firework shot up into the sky.


    After decades of operation by the Darong Guild, fireworks were no longer a secret treasure. They were simple to make and quickly epted in the underworld.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The fireworks exploded in the sky, adding a magnificent spectacle to the deste night.


    "Whoosh~~~Whoosh~~~Whoosh~~~Whoosh~~~Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~"


    Countless fireworks shot into the sky, imprinting flower patterns into the starry night. The remaining half of the city''s citizens looked up, finding a bit of peace andfort in the chaos brought by the dazzling disy.


    All around the vast city of Xingdou, fireworks lit up the sky, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Almost everyone came out of their homes to watch the sudden disy.


    Ye Qingcheng came out, Shen Xiu came out, and the people of the Immortal Realm came out, all curiously looking at the sky.


    Xing Taidou also looked up, his originally deste mood greatly soothed by the sudden fireworks.


    On a mountain peak outside Xingdou City, Zhong Shan, Yi Lan Que, and Yin Luo Yue watched the countless fireworks in the distance, for Zhong Shan''s second step was to wait for this final moment.

 Chapter 663: That Night鈥檚 Brilliant Fireworks

    <h4>Chapter 663: That Night''s Brilliant Fireworks</h4>


    "Zhong Shan, aren''t you being too ruthless?" Yi Lan Queughed, watching the fireworks filling the distant city.


    "Ruthless?" Yin Luo Yue didn''t understand.


    "Xing Taidou is already in dire straits. The Great Yan Heavenly Dynasty has copsed, and now the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty is also crumbling. Yet, you didn''t think that was enough. You crushed him during the first phase of the Heaven-Crushing n and now you''re rubbing salt into his wounds, the most painful kind!" Yi Lan Que sighed.


    "Who is Xing Taidou? The founder of a great dynasty, his psychological resilience is incredibly strong. The copse of his heavenly dynasty and imperial dynasty can''t shake hisposure. To turn him into a spear aimed at the Tian family, he must be driven mad. Are those measures alone enough? Even if the Tian family issues a worldwide bounty, it won''t make Xing Taidou lose his sanity. So, I had no choice but to resort to this n!" Zhong Shan shook his head and sighed.


    "But will setting off fireworks here be enough?" Yin Luo Yue asked curiously.


    "Sometimes, attacking the heart causes the deepest wounds! Only such wounds can drive a person to madness and make them lose their rationality," Yi Lan Que shook his head.


    In Xingdou City.


    Xing Taidou stared nkly at the endless fireworks. In the night, the beautiful disy could soothe some psychological wounds.


    Watching the sky full of fireworks, Xing Taidou seemed to forget the worldly troubles, his previous destion, and his repeated failures. His eyes were filled only with appreciation.


    "What''s going on? Why are there so many fireworks in Xingdou City tonight?" Ye Qingcheng wondered.


    "We don''t know, Lord," replied a member of the Immortal Realm.


    "Go investigate!" Ye Qingcheng ordered.


    "Yes!"


    Before the person could move, another firework shot up, flying higher than the others. It exploded in the sky, forming a line of colorful characters:


    <strong>Congrattions to the Immortal Realm''s Lord Ye for Eternal Longevity!</strong>


    "Huh?" Ye Qingcheng was slightly taken aback.


    This is for me? Ye Qingcheng looked at the sky, puzzled.


    Following this, another firework shot up:


    <strong>Congrattions to the Immortal Realm''s Lord Ye for Longevity Equal to Heaven!</strong>


    And another:


    <strong>Congrattions to the Immortal Realm''s Lord Ye for Evesting Immortality!</strong>


    <strong>Congrattions to the Immortal Realm''s Lord Ye for Sharing Longevity with Heaven and Earth!</strong>


    ...One after another, fireworks exploded, each with words celebrating Ye Qingcheng''s grand birthday.


    Ye Qingcheng''s first reaction was, is today my birthday?


    "Forgive us, Lord, for failing to celebrate your birthday. We are deeply sorry!" a member of the Immortal Realm said fearfully.


    "Forgive us, Lord!" the others echoed immediately.


    "Forget it, there''s no need. I never nned to celebrate. Go, find out what''s going on and who set off these endless fireworks," Ye Qingcheng ordered, frowning.


    Ye Qingcheng instinctively felt something was amiss, as if being used as a pawn, but couldn''t discern the details.


    Back at Xing Taidou''s ce.


    Initially, Xing Taidou, under the sky full of splendid fireworks, had temporarily forgotten his failures. His heart found a bit of sce.


    But suddenly, a line of fireworkspletely brought Xing Taidou back to reality.


    Ye Qingcheng''s birthday? This is celebrating Ye Qingcheng''s birthday?


    Instinctively, Xing Taidou nced toward the pce where Ye Qingcheng resided. Countless members of the Immortal Realm surrounded Xing Taidou. Were these sudden brilliant fireworks specifically prepared for Ye Qingcheng?


    "Hurry, find out who set off these fireworks and bring them to me!" someone near Ye Qingcheng shouted to a group of subordinates in the distance.


    If the fireworks weren''t set off by the Immortal Realm, then were they set off by someone else in the world who remembered Ye Qingcheng''s birthday and deliberately sent blessings?


    In an instant, it seemed as if Ye Qingcheng was being elevated to the most dazzling position, receiving blessings from the entire world. At least, that''s how it appeared to Xing Taidou.


    With the Immortal Realm behind him, Ye Qingcheng would never fail. As long as the Immortal Realm stood, Ye Qingcheng would always be in the limelight. He couldmand the world, gain power, fame, and eventually immortality.


    And what about himself?


    The thoughts Xing Taidou had deliberately avoided quickly surfaced.


    Since leaving the Wu Tribe, he had not been in the limelight. The Great Yan Heavenly Dynasty was destroyed, the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty was destroyed, and he was still being hunted by the Tian family. Fleeing the world, he had to temporarily ally with the Immortal Realm��no, he was merely seeking shelter under their protection.


    If the Immortal Realm flourished, he would be fine. But if the Immortal Realm fell, he would be hunted by the Tian family again.


    Without the Immortal Realm, he would have already been surrounded by the Tian family.


    The Tian family was testing the Immortal Realm, and the Immortal Realm was testing the Tian family, forming a delicate bnce.


    If the Immortal Realm won, that would be fine. But the Tian family had existed for tens of thousands of years��would they lose? If the Immortal Realm could not stand against the Tian family, they would definitely push him out as a scapegoat. Given the Immortal Realm''s reputation, who would me them for a minor mistake? They would only me him for colluding with the mortal world.


    He wasn''t truly epted by the Immortal Realm; he was just a lone man.


    A lone man?


    Staring at the dazzling fireworks, Xing Taidou''s mood underwent a drastic change. A deep-seated fear arose in his heart, a fear he had never experienced before. Ye Qingcheng? An ally? As long as the Tian family existed, these ''allies'' would eventually push him out as a scapegoat because the Tian family''s hunt would never stop.


    He had vited the rules, so he had to face the Tian family alone?


    Death? Death at the hands of the Tian family?


    At this moment, the already heartbroken and deste Xing Taidou, stimted by the fireworks, found his mind bing increasingly twisted. The loneliness of a lone man, so lonely it freezes the soul, enveloped him in a bone-chilling cold.


    If ordinary people felt this way, how much more would someone who had been in power for thousands of years like Xing Taidou?


    As long as the Tian family existed, Xing Taidou would die!


    In an instant, under the brilliant fireworks, the threat of the Tian family''s hunt became a nightmare for Xing Taidou, nting a poisonous seed in his heart, urging him to eliminate this inner toxin quickly.


    Xing Taidou coldly nced in the direction of his ''ally'' Ye Qingcheng, then coldly looked at the sky. In that moment, it seemed as if the entire world had be his enemy.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Xing Taidou let out a long, furious roar.


    The sudden roar shattered countless fireworks, shaking the entire city.


    In an instant, everyone turned their gaze towards the source of the roar.


    Outside the city, Zhong Shan stared intently at Xingdou City. Only when Xing Taidou''s roar echoed, changing the wind and clouds in the sky, did Zhong Shan clench his fist in excitement and let out a long sigh of relief.


    "Did it work?" Yi Lan Que asked, surprised.


    "It did," Zhong Shan confirmed with a deep breath.


    Yi Lan Que''s eyes shed with astonishment. Earlier, he had yfully teased Zhong Shan about the strength of his methods, but deep down, he didn''t believe it was possible. It seemed inconceivable that mere fireworks couldpletely change a person and alter their character.


    "Is Xing Taidou now willing to attack the Tian family?" Yin Luo Yue asked, equally surprised.


    "Xing Taidou''s previous mentality was like a frog being slowly boiled in warm water. He had a grudge against the Tian family, but it hadn''t reached the point of risking everything. He still had an alliance with the Immortal Realm, a glimmer of hope, and a ce to stay. But just now, in his moment of despair, I showed him the final fate of the frog in the pot��his death trap. Now, he''s changed," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "A death trap?" Yin Luo Yue looked puzzled.


    "I understand now. You nted a seed in Xing Taidou''s heart, letting him amplify this emotion to its maximum. This is the emotion you wanted. Given Xing Taidou''s resilient nature, no amount of persuasion from others could have the same effect as an emotion he cultivates within himself. Only his self-generated emotions would be perfectly reflected in his character," Yi Lan Que said in astonishment.


    At that moment, Yi Lan Que finally saw the terrifying side of Zhong Shan. He could hide things in your heart without you realizing it and make you believe the thoughts were your own!


    The most difficult thing to cultivate is not a particr spell but the human heart. Yet Zhong Shan could manipte people''s hearts. This level of maniption was terrifying. He could change an opponent without them even realizing it.


    Yi Lan Que felt a chill in his heart. Was Zhong Shan a demon? How could he be so terrifying? Just this move, "A Lone Man," was several times more potent than the entire "Heaven-Crushing n" from the past. He even timed the Heaven-Crushing n perfectly with Ye Qingcheng''s birthday celebration. This level of calction was frightening.


    The second step, a lone man?


    "Alright, today''s task is essentiallyplete. Let''s go back and rest," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "That''s it?" Yin Luo Yue asked incredulously.


    "It''s more than enough. Once the timees, Xing Taidou and his Heaven-Realm eunuch will definitely attack the Tian family with all their might. With this second step, a lone man, you''ve removed another major obstacle, and the Tian family has gained another headache!" Yi Lan Que exined.


    Zhong Shan left, and the fireworks continued to light up the city.


    Xing Taidou''s roar had drawn everyone''s attention. Looking around at the crowd, Xing Taidou took a deep breath.


    "Let''s go back," Xing Taidou said to the old eunuch.


    "Yes!"


    The old eunuch noticed that after the roar, the emperor seemed to have changed somehow, though he couldn''t pinpoint exactly how.


    Ye Qingcheng looked at Xing Taidou curiously but said nothing more.


    The next day, the events in Xingdou City quickly spread far and wide. The night of fireworks celebrating Ye Qingcheng and Xing Taidou''s roar all hinted at something strange.


    The news spread to all corners and soon reached Tian Xiao.


    Tian Xiao read the report, his brows furrowed deeply.


    "What is going on? I feel something is off, very off. Xiao Wang, take a look. Do you see anything unusual?" Tian Xiao handed the report to Xiao Wang.


    "Yes!" Xiao Wang took the report and examined it carefully.


    "I''m sure Zhong Shan''s hand is in this. The fireworks must be rted to him. But what is the issue? And why did Xing Taidou roar?" Tian Xiao pondered, frowning deeply.

 Chapter 664: The Third Step, Borrowing a Chicken to Lay Eggs

    <h4>Chapter 664: The Third Step, Borrowing a Chicken to Lay Eggs</h4>


    At Tian Xiao''s ce.


    A group of strategists examined the intelligence gathered from Xingdou City. Fireworks all night? Xing Taidou''s roar? What was the connection? ording to the young master, Zhong Shan''s hand was definitely in this, but what exactly had Zhong Shan done?


    Confused and fatigued, the strategists continued to specte.


    At that moment, Xiao Wang''s pupils contracted, and his face showed a look of extreme shock, as if he had thought of something crucial.


    "No way," Xiao Wang muttered to himself.


    "Xiao Wang, have you thought of something?" Tian Xiao immediately turned to Xiao Wang.


    "I''m not sure," Xiao Wang shook his head.


    "Oh? Tell us what you think!"


    Everyone turned to look at Xiao Wang.


    "Zhong Shan''s first step was to make Shen Xiu harbor resentment towards the Tian family. This second step must have caused someone else to harbor the same resentment. Ye Qingcheng? Impossible! Then, Xing Taidou?" Xiao Wang said with grave seriousness.


    "Ahhhhh!" Tian Xiao took a sharp breath. The others, however, still didn''t understand, clearly not getting the point.


    "Could Zhong Shan really be such a demon?" For the first time, Tian Xiao showed a look of astonishment towards Zhong Shan.


    The group looked perplexed.


    "I don''t know. I''ve never been able to figure him out," Xiao Wang shook his head.


    "Young master, this... will the Tian family be...?" Although a subordinate didn''t understand fully, he could tell from their expressions that there was concern.


    Taking a deep breath, Tian Xiao shook his head, "No need to worry. Even with Zhong Shan and all the surrounding forces, they can''t impact the Tian family."


    "Yes!" The subordinates replied.


    "This is getting more interesting. Keep investigating, keep probing. Zhong Shan? Such talent, I must have him!" Tian Xiao said excitedly.


    "Yes!" The subordinates responded promptly.


    In Xingdou City, within the pce.


    "Lord Ye, gather the elders of the Immortal Realm. When they arrive, we will annihte the Tian family!" Xing Taidou said to Ye Qingcheng.


    Ye Qingcheng looked at Xing Taidou, his eyes showing a hint of peculiarity.


    Shaking his head, Ye Qingcheng said, "No need. The elders of the Immortal Realm are in deep seclusion. Let''s keep an eye on the Tian family and act ordingly. Besides, didn''t we already go once? We couldn''t do anything to the Tian family with our strength alone. Unless we have external help, don''t rush."


    Don''t rush? A sh of angry impatience crossed Xing Taidou''s eyes, but he restrained himself.


    "Alright," Xing Taidou could only nod.


    At Zhong Shan''s ce.


    "Zhong Shan, what''s the third step?" Yi Lan Que asked.


    "The third step is simple, borrowing a chicken toy eggs!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Borrowing a chicken toy eggs? Which chicken?" Yin Luo Yue asked.


    "Xing Taidou!" Zhong Shan replied.


    "Huh?" Yin Luo Yue looked puzzled. If Xing Taidou knew he was being likened to a chicken, who knows how he''d feel.


    "You want Xing Taidou to persuade Ye Qingcheng to attack the Tian family again?" Yi Lan Que frowned.


    "Exactly. Xing Taidou is already on the edge. He just needs a little push to tip him over. By exploiting his newfound hatred and desperation, we can use him as the driving force to initiate an all-out assault on the Tian family," Zhong Shan exined.


    "But won''t Ye Qingcheng be cautious? He seems reluctant to act rashly," Yin Luo Yue asked.


    "Ye Qingcheng''s reluctance is temporary. Once Xing Taidou''s determination turns into fanaticism, his persistence will wear down Ye Qingcheng''s caution. And with the right incentives and external pressures, Ye Qingcheng will have no choice but to join forces," Zhong Shan said with a knowing smile.


    "This way, Xing Taidou bes the spearhead of our attack while we remain in the shadows, manipting events from behind," Yi Lan Que said, now understanding the brilliance of the n.


    "Exactly. Borrowing a chicken toy eggs. We use Xing Taidou''s desperation and Ye Qingcheng''s eventual cooperation to achieve our goal without exposing ourselves directly," Zhong Shan concluded.


    The next day, news of the previous night''s events in Xingdou City spread far and wide. The night of fireworks celebrating Ye Qingcheng and Xing Taidou''s roar were both steeped in mystery.


    This information soon reached Tian Xiao.


    Reading the report, Tian Xiao''s brows furrowed deeply.


    "What is going on? I feel something is off, very off. Xiao Wang, take a look. Do you see anything unusual?" Tian Xiao handed the report to Xiao Wang.


    "Yes!" Xiao Wang took the report and examined it carefully.


    "I''m sure Zhong Shan''s hand is in this. The fireworks must be rted to him. But what is the issue? And why did Xing Taidou roar?" Tian Xiao pondered, frowning deeply.


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "But they''ve already tried once and couldn''t defeat the Tian family. Isn''t that far from your expectations?" Yi Lan Que frowned.


    "Once you borrow the chicken toy the egg, won''t the egg eventually hatch into another chicken? Chickenys egg, egg hatches chicken! This cycle will repeat, like a snowball rolling down a mountain. Can the situation at the top of the mountain be the same as at the bottom?" Zhong Shan exined.


    "Huh?" Yi Lan Que was puzzled, not understanding Zhong Shan''s n.


    "So, what should we do?" Yin Luo Yue asked.


    "First, we meet Xing Taidou and borrow this ''chicken''!" Zhong Shan said in a serious tone.


    In Xingdou City, within the imperial court.


    Xing Taidou listened to his ministers describe the current state of the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty, noting the widespread despair among the popce.


    Hearing one bad news after another, Xing Taidou''s expression was somewhat wooden, almost dazed. A few days ago, he would have been deeply worried, his heart tied to the fate of the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty. But now, ever since that night of brilliant fireworks, Xing Taidou''s mindset hadpletely changed.


    The survival of the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty no longer stirred even the slightest ripple in his heart.


    As long as the Tian family was not destroyed, the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty, no matter how prosperous, was useless. The Tian family had to be destroyed.


    Once the Tian family was annihted, rebuilding an imperial dynasty would be easy. Even creating another heavenly dynasty would be no problem, considering he had done it before.


    Xing Taidou''s mind was now filled not with immediate concerns but with grand strategy. How to guide the overall situation? How to persuade Ye Qingcheng to lead the Immortal Realm in a deadly battle against the Tian family? Even if it resulted in mutual destruction, he would no longer worry.


    The Immortal Realm had to act, and Ye Qingcheng had to be convinced.


    "Your Majesty, the nation is in ruins, the people are in despair. The Xingdou Imperial Dynasty is in grave danger!" a minister shouted.


    The shout jolted Xing Taidou out of his thoughts.


    "Yes, I know," Xing Taidou nodded.


    "Huh?" The minister was taken aback by Xing Taidou''s dismissive response, realizing that the emperor hadn''t listened to a word of his long report.


    The ministers looked at Xing Taidou strangely, some wondering if he was nning to abandon the Xingdou Imperial Dynasty.


    Just as Xing Taidou was about to impatiently dismiss the court, a guard suddenly rushed into the hall.


    "Report!"


    The guard''s loud report startled everyone. What could make a guard dare to intrude?


    "Your Majesty, someone outside the pce has sent a visiting card!" the guard said respectfully.


    "Oh?" Xing Taidou raised an eyebrow.


    The ministers began to scold the guard, questioning his understanding of protocol.


    "Fool! A visiting card? Didn''t the Ministry of Rites teach you the rules? Any matter can wait until after the court session. How dare you intrude?" an official shouted angrily.


    "Your Majesty, the visitor ims to be Zhong Shan from the Great Yan Heavenly Dynasty and the Tiger Tribe''s Supreme Yin Luo Yue. An emperor and a supreme leader; I dared not neglect them!" the guard quickly exined.


    "Huh?"


    The ministers were momentarily stunned. An emperor? A supreme leader? These two individuals'' statuses were no less than the emperor''s. Why had they suddenlye?


    "Let them in!" Xing Taidou said in a deep voice.


    "Yes!"


    Soon, Zhong Shan, Yin Luo Yue, and Yi Lan Que walked into the main hall of the court.


    Yi Lan Que stood behind Zhong Shan, not revealing his identity, appearing as if he were merely apanying the other two. No one paid him any particr attention.


    "Zhong Shan, greeting the Great Emperor Xingdou!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    With the fall of the Great Yan Heavenly Dynasty, Xing Taidou was no longer an emperor and was now referred to as the Great Emperor. Zhong Shan used this term to establish equality between them in conversation.


    "Xing Taidou, we meet again," Yin Luo Yue added.


    At this moment, Xing Taidou''s eyelid twitched. He could see that these three were led by Zhong Shan.


    Xing Taidou had information on Zhong Shan, knowing that his origins were mysterious and that he was highly capable, havinge from the mortal realm. He had learned this from the Immortal Realm.


    "What brings you both here from afar?" Xing Taidou, sitting on his throne, asked with a frown.


    Perhaps because Yi Lan Que appeared too ordinary, Xing Taidou directly overlooked him.


    "We are here for the Tian family," Zhong Shan said in a serious tone.


    "Oh?" Xing Taidou''s interest was piqued.


    "We are here to destroy the Tian family!" Zhong Shan reiterated loudly.


    "Whoosh!" Xing Taidou stood up abruptly, staring intently at Zhong Shan.


    The ministers were surprised to see Xing Taidou stand up so suddenly. What did it mean?


    "Dismiss the court!" Xing Taidou said softly.


    "Dismiss the court~~~~~~~~~~~~" the old eunuch behind Xing Taidou immediately shouted.


    "Long live the emperor, long live, long live~~~~" The ministers chanted as they left the hall, faces filled with confusion.


    Once the ministers had departed, only five people remained in the hall: Xing Taidou, the old eunuch, Zhong Shan, Yin Luo Yue, and Yi Lan Que.


    "Emperor Zhong Shan of the Great Yan Dynasty?" Xing Taidou slowly walked down from his throne.


    "Yes, it is I," Zhong Shan said calmly with a smile.


    "You are the one who discredited Tian Xiao?" Xing Taidou asked curiously.


    "Indeed, it was me."


    "When you left the Tian family that day, it must have been quite unpleasant. Do you really want to destroy the Tian family?" Xing Taidou stared hard at Zhong Shan.


    "Don''t you want to?" Zhong Shan retorted.


    "Hahahahaha~~~!" Xing Taidou burst into a loudugh.


    "Yes, I very much want to. But what is your purpose in seeking me out?" Xing Taidou''s expression then turned serious as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    "To conspire with you against the Tian family!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Oh? Conspire against the Tian family? What makes you think you have the capital to conspire with me?" Xing Taidou squinted his eyes.


    "I am not inferior to you!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "Not inferior to me? Hahaha, it''s been a long time since I''ve seen such an arrogant youngster. Do you know how much capital I have?" Xing Taidou sneered.


    "You, the eunuch behind you, Shen Xiu, and the Immortal Realm members. Am I right?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Correct. And you? Do you only have Yin Luo Yue?" Xing Taidou stared at Zhong Shan.


    "Yin Luo Yue? He is not involved in this matter. However, I am sure you have investigated me and know that I, Zhong Shan, do not speak empty words. If I say I have the capital, then I have it, and it is not inferior to yours. If you are sincere, we can conspire against the Tian family together!" Zhong Shan said seriously.


    Xing Taidou''s brows furrowed deeply as he stared at Zhong Shan. How could Zhong Shan gather a group of Heaven-Realm cultivators? Xing Taidou had studied Zhong Shan but couldn''t figure out where he got such powerful allies.


    "Where is this capital you speak of?" Xing Taidou squinted his eyes.


    "When your determination is united, my capital will naturally appear before you!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    Both Xing Taidou and the old eunuch, as well as Yi Lan Que, stared at Zhong Shan intently. Only Yin Luo Yue was sweating nervously. Where was this capital? Don''t blow it, Zhong Shan! From the Great Yan Dynasty to here, he hadn''t seen any allies. Besides, Xuan Yuan wouldn''t follow Zhong Shan to attack the Tian family, and Mr. Corpse could only create a Heaven-Realm level ghost.

 Chapter 665: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Alliance of Eleven Heaven-Realm Cultivators

    <h4>Chapter 665: Zhong Shan''s Alliance of Eleven Heaven-Realm Cultivators</h4>


    In Xingdou City, on a pce square.


    Everyone had been cleared out, leaving only six people on the square: Zhong Shan, Yin Luo Yue, Yi Lan Que, Xing Taidou, Shen Xiu, and Ye Qingcheng.


    Six tea tables were arranged in a circle, with each person sitting in front of a table, facing each other.


    Ye Qingcheng sipped his tea, listening intently.


    "Lord Ye, what do you think?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile after finishing his exnation.


    Ye Qingcheng gently ced his cup down, staring at Zhong Shan with a serious expression.


    "Lord Ye, what do you say? With this opportunity, if we don''t strike against the Tian family now, when will we?" Xing Taidou urged.


    "Fortune favors the bold; missing this chance will incur heavenly wrath!" Shen Xiu agreed, nodding towards Ye Qingcheng.


    Yi Lan Que, watching from the side, found the situation intriguing. Zhong Shan was transparent in his actions, not hiding anything before attacking the Tian family. Yi Lan Que observed the mental maneuvers with keen interest.


    Yi Lan Que also realized the brilliance behind Zhong Shan''s earlier moves: the first step, ruining reputations, and the second step, isting Xing Taidou and Shen Xiu. While it didn''t make them friends, it made them useful in persuading Ye Qingcheng.


    Ye Qingcheng, as a realm master, naturally had many considerations. If Zhong Shan had approached him directly, Ye Qingcheng''s suspicion would have made immediate agreement unlikely. But with Xing Taidou and Shen Xiu as advocates, persuading Ye Qingcheng became much easier.


    Ye Qingcheng nced at Yi Lan Que and Yin Luo Yue before turning his gaze back to Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, how did you enter the Underworld?" Ye Qingcheng asked instead of answering.


    "That''s my secret. Apologies," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "A secret? Heh, you''re quite remarkable. Among the noted figures in the Longevity Realm and the Immortal Realm, you rank sixth," Ye Qingcheng said with a faint smile.


    The Longevity Realm? The Immortal Realm? Clearly, Ye Qingcheng knew Zhong Shan understood their rtionship, and thus didn''t hide the connection.


    Yi Lan Que, on the other hand, showed a slight reaction to the mention of the Immortal Realm and the Longevity Realm.


    "Sixth? Lord Ye, you do hold me in high regard," Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "Does it matter if I hold you in high regard or not?" Ye Qingcheng asked.


    "It doesn''t matter. I''m just curious. After listening to me for so long, is that all you wanted to tell me?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Of course not. I just don''t believe you can find more allies," Ye Qingcheng shook his head.


    "What if I do have allies?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "You mentioned that Yin Luo Yue would not join us in attacking the Tian family?" Ye Qingcheng squinted his eyes.


    "That''s right. I promised Yin Luo Yue that he wouldn''t be involved in attacking the Tian family," Zhong Shan said, taking another sip of tea.


    "Then what about your people?" Ye Qingcheng asked seriously.


    "My people? As long as you agree, Lord Ye, my people will show themselves. Zhong Shan never speaks empty words," Zhong Shan said, putting down his cup.


    Ye Qingcheng took another deep look at Zhong Shan. For the first time, he felt that he couldn''t see through him.


    "How many people do you have?" Ye Qingcheng asked.


    "How many do you have?" Zhong Shan countered.


    "Five Heaven-Realm cultivators," Ye Qingcheng said seriously.


    Five Heaven-Realm cultivators: Shen Xiu, Xing Taidou, the old eunuch, Ye Qingcheng, and another strong Immortal Realm expert. Ye Qingcheng wasn''t lying because there was no point in lying at this moment. Moreover, stating this number emphasized Ye Qingcheng''s strength.


    Zhong Shan fell silent for a moment.


    "Very well. Let me show you my allies," Zhong Shan finally said, a confident smile ying on his lips.


    Zhong Shan gestured, and from the shadows, figures began to emerge. Eleven individuals, their auras unmistakably those of Heaven-Realm cultivators, stepped into the light. The atmosphere grew tense as they stood beside Zhong Shan, their presence undeniable.


    Ye Qingcheng, Xing Taidou, Shen Xiu, and the old eunuch watched in stunned silence.


    "Eleven Heaven-Realm cultivators?" Ye Qingcheng whispered, his disbelief evident.


    "Yes. These are my allies. Together, we can bring down the Tian family," Zhong Shan dered.


    Yi Lan Que and Yin Luo Yue exchanged nces, both impressed by Zhong Shan''s ability to gather such formidable allies.


    "Well, Lord Ye, shall we?" Zhong Shan asked, his confidence unwavering.


    Ye Qingcheng stared at Zhong Shan for a long moment before finally nodding. "Very well, Zhong Shan. We will join forces to bring down the Tian family."


    With that agreement, the alliance was forged, and the first steps towards their shared goal were taken.


    "What''s this? You have so many of them?" Ye Qingcheng sneered.


    Zhong Shan, who had been silent, suddenly smiled and looked up at Ye Qingcheng. "Just right, I have one more than you," he said.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Ye Qingcheng''s pupils contracted, Shenxiu and Xing Taidou both raised their eyebrows. Who is this Zhong Shan? So mysterious? He can find six experts at the Heaven Extreme Realm? How is that possible? Is he serious? Doesn''t that mean he can storm the Tian family on his own? Is he bragging?


    Yi Lanque looked at Zhong Shan with astonishment once more, his eyes filled with incredulity. Yi Lanque had already regarded Zhong Shan highly, but over the past few days, every strategy Zhong Shan devised made Yi Lanque regard him even more highly. But now, this was even more exaggerated. Does he have six Heaven Extreme Realm experts as his backup?


    Only Yin Luori was frantically drinking tea on the side. This Zhong Shan''s skill of making something out of nothing was extraordinary, and his ability to brag without blushing was equally impressive. Heaven Extreme Realm experts? You can find six of them? Are they like cabbages in the market?


    "One more? Hahaha, how many Heaven Extreme Realm experts are there in the entire Netherworld? You can find six? Are you kidding me?" Ye Qingcheng said incredulously.


    "Of course not. As long as Master Ye agrees, my six Heaven Extreme Realm experts will make themselves known," Zhong Shan remained calm andposed, sipping his tea leisurely.


    Ye Qingcheng stared at Zhong Shan, eyes full of suspicion. Should he believe him? What exactly is Zhong Shan nning?


    "Master Ye, what''s there to hesitate about? If Zhong Shan is lying, we can just forget about it. But if he''s telling the truth, wouldn''t that make eleven Heaven Extreme Realm experts? With eleven Heaven Extreme Realm experts attacking the Tian family together, what do you have to worry about?" Shenxiu urged.


    "That''s right, Master Ye. Are you afraid at this point?" Xing Taidou said with a frown.


    Driven by their eagerness to strike against the Tian family, both Shenxiu and Xing Taidou didn''t consider the veracity of Zhong Shan''s words. They just wanted Ye Qingcheng to agree.


    Ye Qingcheng ignored the two of them and continued to stare at Zhong Shan, taking a deep look before saying, "Fine, show me your assets, and I will agree!"


    "ng!"


    Zhong Shan''s teacup fell heavily onto the table.


    "Good, Master Ye, you are decisive and trustworthy. Zhong Shan admires you. In that case, Zhong Shan will show you," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan, each with different emotions. Ye Qingcheng was solemn, Shenxiu and Xing Taidou were expectant, Yi Lanque was curious, and Yin Luori was sweating profusely. This time, Zhong Shan''s bluff might be called.


    Zhong Shan flipped his hand and took out a memory crystal, tossing it to Ye Qingcheng.


    Ye Qingcheng caught it with a peculiar look at Zhong Shan. "What''s this?"


    "Watch it first," Zhong Shan replied.


    After speaking, Zhong Shan leisurely sipped his tea again.


    With doubts, Ye Qingcheng activated the crystal with a spell, projecting its contents for everyone to see.


    The crystal showed the scene at the Yellow Springs Road, where Xuanyuan battled six celestial beings.


    Xuanyuan, alone, fought against six Earth Immortals, even killing one on the spot!


    The power of the Genesis Divine Pce was fully disyed, its might overwhelming, with a holy body and a creator''s presence, splitting into three parts, incredibly formidable.


    The six Earth Immortals were strong, but they encountered Xuanyuan, a freak of nature. Helplessly, they were defeated and fled.


    After watching the memory crystal, everyone let out a long breath. Such a grand battle at the Yellow Springs Road, they had missed it. But seeing the memory crystal somewhatpensated for that. The entire battle was dazzling, except for the minor disappointment of the fake "Reincarnation Jade Talisman" used by one of the Earth Immortals, adding a touch of irony to the splendid fight.


    "How about it?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "What do you mean ''how about it''?" Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "What do you think of these individuals?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan strangely, as if he were a fool. Did he actually think that Xuanyuan and the remaining five Earth Immortals would join forces to destroy the Tian family?


    "The Genesis Divine Pce and the Tian family may not be familiar with each other, but they certainly aren''t enemies," Ye Qingcheng said solemnly.


    "I''m referring to the five Earth Immortals," Zhong Shan rified.


    "Oh?"


    "As long as Master Ye agrees, the five Earth Immortals will naturally join us in dealing with the Tian family!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Oh? And how will you convince the five Earth Immortals?" Ye Qingcheng clearly did not believe him.


    "By threats and incentives," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Threats? Incentives?"


    "Threats are simple! Ao Lie, who was once the dragon of this minor world, naturally knows about the Tian family''s existence. If we give this memory crystal to the Tian family, the five Earth Immortals will be hunted down by them, making their mission even more difficult. You must understand that those from the Grand World in this minor world not only have their strength restricted but also their lifespan!"


    "Reversing time?" Shenxiu''s eyes lit up.


    "Exactly, reversing time. So, they don''t want to drag this out for too long. They need to find a breakthrough!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "And the incentives?" Ye Qingcheng asked.


    "There are three incentives. First, as long as you promise that after they help us destroy the Tian family, you will help Ao Lie hold off Xuanyuan and let them enter the Yang Realm!"


    "Yes, they will definitely agree!" Xing Taidou immediately said.


    "The second incentive, the Killing Immortal Sword cane down from the Yang Realm, so you must have a way to go back up. As long as Master Ye promises, even if Xuanyuan can''t be dealt with, you can still send them to the Yang Realm. After all, Ao Lie knows about the Killing Immortal Sword in the Yang Realm!"


    "Yes, yes, Master Ye, whether you send them or not, just promise them. They have no other choice!"


    "Mm, and what''s the third point?"


    "The third point? Heh, the greater the incentive, the better. This requires Xing Taidou''s cooperation," Zhong Shan looked at Xing Taidou.


    "Uh?"


    "Why is the Tian family chasing you, Xing Taidou? Because of the ''Earth Book.'' This minor world has an Earth Book, the Great Yan Dynasty was destroyed, and the two Wu ns were also exterminated. Xing Taidou was hunted by the Tian family and almost killed. Why? To silence you, because the ''Earth Book'' is in the Tian family''s hands!" Zhong Shan exined.


    After Zhong Shan finished speaking, everyone took a deep breath. This was a tant lie! This was framing the Tian family! But the framing was so perfect, so enticing. Destroying the Tian family not only meant they could go to the Yang Realm but also possibly obtain the Earth Book. Only a fool wouldn''t do it! Besides, with ten Heaven Extreme Realm experts, plus the one Zhong Shan hadn''t mentioned, making eleven Heaven Extreme Realm experts, how could they not destroy the Tian family?


    Ye Qingcheng looked deeply at Zhong Shan.


    "Can you guarantee sess?" Ye Qingcheng stared at Zhong Shan.


    "Heh, I said, this isn''t a one-man effort. It requires everyone''s cooperation. As for negotiating with the five Earth Immortals, that''s even easier. Yin Supreme was the previous Tiger Supreme of the Yang Realm, and Ao Lie was the previous Dragon Supreme. They are peers and know each other, making the negotiations much more convenient!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "There are ten Heaven Extreme Realm experts already. What about the eleventh?" Ye Qingcheng asked.

 Chapter 666: Zhong Shan, the Alliance Leader

    <h4>Chapter 666: Zhong Shan, the Alliance Leader</h4>


    "Another one? Let''s wait until these five Earth Immortals agree first," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    With these five Earth Immortals, everyone no longer doubted Zhong Shan''s words. After all, it was unnecessary; even mentioning the five Earth Immortals was enough. Since Zhong Shan emphasized there was another one, there certainly was.


    "So, what do you propose we do?" Ye Qingcheng asked calmly.


    "Yin Supreme, I need you to make a trip," Zhong Shan said, looking at Yin Luori.


    "Uh? Where to?" Yin Luori asked, looking slightly puzzled.


    "Wei Taizhong has gone to meet a friend of mine. This friend knows the whereabouts of Ao Lie. He will tell you where Ao Lie is, and you can persuade Ao Lie toe here. Master Ye will persuade Ao Lie," Zhong Shan exined with a smile.


    Yin Luori looked at Zhong Shan with a strange expression. Who had Wei Taizhong gone to see? Naturally, it was Xuanyuan, delivering a message. Zhong Shan had nned this series of interconnected schemes right after leaving the Tian family''s gate? His calctions were terrifying!


    "Alright," Yin Luori nodded.


    He stood up, and his figure flickered, disappearing from everyone''s sight.


    Watching Yin Luori leave, everyone felt strange. They looked at Zhong Shan, feeling as if they were caught in his intricate web, with Zhong Shan as the mastermind.


    "Master Ye, when Ao Lie arrives, I will rely on you to persuade him," Zhong Shan said with a smile, sipping his tea.


    "It''s hardly a burden. You have already crafted the speech; I''m merely following the script. But who will lead the assault on the Tian family?" Ye Qingcheng asked, frowning.


    Who will lead? Whoever leads will be themander-in-chief, directing this grand assault on the Tian family!


    Xing Taidou, Shenxiu, and Yi Lanque all looked at Zhong Shan, waiting for his decision.


    Zhong Shan took a sip of tea, ced the cup down, and said, "Naturally, it should be Master Ye. In this assault on the Tian family, who else but you, with your prestige, cultivation, and background?"


    Zhong Shan rmended Ye Qingcheng as the alliance leader!


    Xing Taidou and Shenxiu were slightly surprised, but it was understandable. They could ept Ye Qingcheng as the alliance leader.


    Yi Lanque frowned slightly at Zhong Shan.


    Ye Qingcheng stared at Zhong Shan, silently lifting his tea cup and taking a sip.


    Suddenly, Ye Qingcheng smiled, set down the cup, and said, "No, you will be the alliance leader!"


    "Uh?" Shenxiu was stunned, not understanding.


    Xing Taidou was also slightly stunned but quickly narrowed his eyes, understanding the key. He looked at Ye Qingcheng, with a subtle, cold smile appearing at the corner of his mouth.


    Yi Lanque looked at Ye Qingcheng. Perhaps only Yi Lanque understood Zhong Shan''s intention when he first spoke.


    Alliance leader? The first to be executed in case of failure! Whoever leads the alliance will bear the brunt of the Tian family''s fiercest attacks during the assault. This was the first reason. The second reason was that sess wasn''t the only concern; failure had to be considered. If the deeply rooted Tian family survived this catastrophe, who would they seek revenge on first? The alliance leader! Third, there was the matter of alliances. Whoever coborated with people from the Grand World would be universally condemned. The five Earth Immortals were from the Grand World. Whoever led the alliance would be seen as colluding with them, leading to endless trouble afterward.


    For these three reasons, Ye Qingcheng naturally did not want to bear the stigma of being the alliance leader. At his level, reputation was no longer important. Ye Qingcheng sought tangible benefits, real gains, not empty titles!


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan, who remained silent, sipping his tea.


    "How about it? As long as you agree, we will join forces to attack the Tian family!" Ye Qingcheng smiled.


    After a moment of silence, Zhong Shan sighed deeply, "Alright, since Master Ye holds Zhong Shan in such high regard, I will reluctantly ept. However, I hope everyone will give their all this time, leaving the Tian family no chance to recover."


    "Of course!" Ye Qingchengughed heartily.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Thus, the alliance was officially established, the Heaven-Turning Alliance! This marked the third sessful step in Zhong Shan''s grand n to overturn the heavens.


    Zhong Shan was arranged to stay in a certain part of the pce, and the others also dispersed.


    Ye Qingcheng returned to his residence, where several members of the Immortal World stood before him.


    "Master, why have you called us here?" one of them suddenly asked.


    "Return to the Immortal World and notify the elders to be ready to support us here and prepare for the destruction of the Tian family!" Ye Qingcheng ordered.


    "Uh? Master, you n to summon the elders?" one of them asked, slightly startled.


    Ye Qingcheng looked at the person in front of him, thought for a moment, but decided not to exin. He took out a jade slip, quickly recorded a message, and handed it to the person in front of him. "Give this to the elders!"


    "Yes!" The crowd nodded in agreement��


    Tian Xiao''s military camp.


    Tian Xiao looked at the intelligence report from Star Dou City.


    "Zhong Shan met with Xing Taidou?" Tian Xiao frowned.


    "Yes, he met with Xing Taidou. It seems he has already started persuading Ye Qingcheng!" Xiao Wang replied.


    "Using Xing Taidou and Shenxiu to help persuade Ye Qingcheng, Zhong Shan is indeed a good strategist," Tian Xiao said calmly.


    "Young Master, is the siege on the Tian family about to begin?" Xiao Wang asked with a frown.


    "Yes, it''s about to start!" Tian Xiao revealed a peculiar smile.


    "So what do we need to do?" Xiao Wang asked.


    "Nothing for now. Since they''ve already persuaded Ye Qingcheng, the siege on the Tian family is imminent. I want to see just how capable Zhong Shan is," Tian Xiao said expectantly.


    "The Tian family won''t be in trouble, right?" Xiao Wang asked with a frown.


    "The Tian family? You should worry about Ye Qingcheng and his group instead!" Tian Xiao said confidently.


    "Yes!"


    "Xiao Wang, while I''m away, you''ll be in charge of the three armies!"


    "Yes! Young Master, are you returning to the Tian family?" Xiao Wang asked.


    "Yes, I need to see for myself just how capable Zhong Shan is, and perhaps, bring him under my control," Tian Xiao said confidently with a smile.


    Xiao Wang looked at Tian Xiao with a slightly peculiar expression. He had a feeling that the young master''s n might not be so easy to aplish. Since Zhong Shan had already established a great empire, he wouldn''t be simple to deal with. However, Xiao Wang did not argue with Tian Xiao��


    Yin Luori, guided by Xuanyuan, found Ao Lie.


    Though Xuanyuan was strong, easily killing another Earth Immortal was not simple. If not for Xuanyuan''s creator body, which could split into three parts, his strength could at most contend with two Earth Immortals. Killing five Earth Immortals at once was nearly impossible unless done one by one.


    When the five Earth Immortals entered the minor world, Xuanyuan could sense them. With the secret techniques of the Genesis Divine Pce, finding the whereabouts of the nearby five Earth Immortals wasn''t difficult.


    Zhong Shan sent a jade slip, and Xuanyuan understood Zhong Shan''s n and agreed to it. When Yin Luori came to Xuanyuan, Xuanyuan directly pointed out Ao Lie''s location.


    Although Yin Luori''s strength was not as great as Ao Lie''s, they were familiar with each other, both being former supremes. They had interacted before. At Yin Luori''s invitation, Ao Lie naturally agreed to meet with Ye Qingcheng.


    Ao Lie might not know Ye Qingcheng personally, but he recognized the Killing Immortal Sword in Ye Qingcheng''s hand and was aware of the Tian family''s existence and mission. With thebination of threats and incentives that Zhong Shan had carefully nned, forming the alliance was rtively easy. After some discussion, Ao Lie went back to consult with the other four Earth Immortals, who naturally agreed to Ye Qingcheng''s request.


    Thus, the group of powerful cultivators ready to assault the Tian family was nearlyplete. There was Zhong Shan, the nominal leader of the alliance, and a group of Heaven Extreme Realm experts led by Ye Qingcheng.


    "Zhong Shan, when do we set off?" Ye Qingcheng asked Zhong Shan.


    "In another month, we need to wait for our final ally," Zhong Shan replied solemnly.


    "The final ally?" Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "Yes. In the meantime, you should gather the strong ones and prepare to attack the Tian family," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    Ye Qingcheng looked at Zhong Shan, a peculiar smile ying on his lips. "Very well. You are the alliance leader; we will follow your lead!"��


    At the Tian family, in the Tian Vein Hall.


    "Father, Zhong Shan is going to attack the Tian family soon!" Tian Xiao reported to Tian Jizi.


    "Which Zhong Shan?" Tian Jizi frowned at Tian Xiao.


    "The one you summoned to the Tian Vein Hall over two months ago!" Tian Xiao said, his brow slightly furrowed.


    Tian Xiao knew his father looked down on Zhong Shan, but he couldn''t just ignore him entirely! How could he disdain even remembering the man?


    "Him? Attack the Tian family? Ha!" Tian Jizi let out a coldugh.


    "Father, aren''t you going to prepare?" Tian Xiao asked, frowning.


    "Prepare for what? Just him? Xiao''er, your wisdom has always pleased me, but this time, you''re mistaken," Tian Jizi shook his head.


    "Oh?" Tian Xiao was slightly surprised.


    "Zhong Shan is shy but insubstantial, arrogant, and overestimates himself. He dared to boast in the Tian Vein Hall. He''s delusional!" Tian Jizi shook his head.


    "Uh?" Tian Xiao looked at Tian Jizi oddly and finally sighed, no longer insisting.


    "Your son takes his leave!" Tian Xiao said.


    "Mm," Tian Jizi nodded and closed his eyes, returning to his cultivation��


    During the month, experts from the Star Dou Empire and the Immortal World gathered in the Ten Thousand Zhang Hell area, spreading out and moving toward the Tian family''s location. Zhong Shan, with Yi Lanque, five Heaven Extreme Realm experts, and five Earth Immortals, also entered the Ten Thousand Zhang Hell area.


    As for Yin Luori, he mysteriously disappeared. Everyone knew it must have been Zhong Shan who sent him away, but no one knew where Yin Luori had gone.


    The group headed straight to a very hidden forested area within the Ten Thousand Zhang Hell, the ce where Mr. Corpse was using a celestial corpse to sacrifice to the Heaven Ghost. This location was also where their eleventh ally, the Heaven Ghost, would be found.


    After more than three months, the Heaven Ghost should have taken form!

 Chapter 667: Assault on the Tian Family

    <h4>Chapter 667: Assault on the Tian Family</h4>


    In the depths of Ten Thousand Zhang Hell, at the Tian family estate, outside the Tian Vein Hall.


    A dozen or so extremely panicked Tian family disciples rushed over.


    "Master, something terrible has happened!" one of the frantic disciples shouted.


    The loud cry echoed through the surrounding buildings.


    Inside one of the great halls, Tian Xiao, who had been meditating with his eyes closed, suddenly opened them upon hearing the rmed cry. He slowly stood up.


    "They''re here?" Tian Xiao''s face showed a hint of an expectant smile.


    Outside, the panicked disciple burst into the Tian Vein Hall, only to be met with a cold stare from Tian Jizi.


    The disciple shuddered.


    "Shouting and making a fuss, what kind of behavior is that?" Tian Jizi scolded.


    "Master, outside, something has happened!"


    "Hmph!" Tian Jizi snorted coldly.


    At that moment, another person appeared out of thin air in the hall��it was the head of the Feng Shui Peak, Tian Lao!


    "Master, something really isn''t right. You shoulde and see," Tian Lao said.


    "Oh?" Tian Jizi raised an eyebrow and stood up.


    Both Tian Jizi and Tian Lao''s figures flickered and vanished from where they stood.


    In the next moment, they were standing atop Ming Peak, looking into the distance. Behind Tian Jizi, five more people had appeared unnoticed!


    Looking at the distant scene, Tian Jizi''s brow furrowed deeply.


    As far as the eye could see, there were endless ghostly figures.


    Seeing ghosts in Ten Thousand Zhang Hell was not unusual, but the area around the Tian family was different. The area around the Tian family was heavily infused with yang energy, causing ghosts to automatically avoid it, making it the only blessednd under Ten Thousand Zhang Hell.


    However, now there were endless ghosts approaching, seemingly unaffected by the yang energy or as if they were following somemand, converging on the Tian family from all directions.


    "What is going on?" Tian Jizi''s eyes turned cold.


    "Perhaps, Zhong Shan''s attack has begun!" Tian Xiao said from the side.


    "Zhong Shan? Hmph!" Tian Jizi snorted coldly.


    At that moment, a purple light shed in the distance, heading straight for Ming Peak and directly towards Tian Jizi.


    Tian Jizi''s pupils contracted as he reached out to catch the purple light.


    It was a purple letter, a battle challenge!


    On the cover were three characters: ''Challenge Invitation.''


    Opening it, inside was a line of text:


    "Commoner Zhong Shan, after three months, gathers the world''s strong to jointly attack the Tian family!"


    "Hahahaha, gather the world''s strong after three months?" Tian Jiziughed mockingly after reading Zhong Shan''s challenge.


    At that moment, a figure suddenly appeared out of thin air atop a distant mountain peak near the Tian family estate.


    It was Zhong Shan! Zhong Shan suddenly appeared on that peak, and everyone turned to look at him.


    "Master of the Tian family, I told you I would return!" Zhong Shanughed loudly.


    "You''vee? So what?" Tian Jizi looked at Zhong Shan with a cold smile.


    "I told you, I would turn the Tian family upside down!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Just with these ghosts?" Tian Jizi said disdainfully.


    "This is just the appetizer. Master of the Tian family, prepare for the uing visual feast! Hahahaha!" Zhong Shanughed wildly, his figure rapidly retreating.


    In the blink of an eye, Zhong Shan had vanished. Watching Zhong Shan''s arrogant departure, Tian Jizi''s eyes turned cold.


    "The first wave, endless ghostly creatures? Zhong Shan can summon such spirits?" Tian Xiao frowned.


    "Tian family disciples, hear mymand!" Tian Jizi''s voice rang out loudly.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" responded the Tian family disciples.


    "Lower-ranked disciples, charge into the ghosts and hone yourbat skills. Defend the Tian family! For every ghost you kill, you will earn family contribution points!" Tian Jizimanded.


    "Yes~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" came the enthusiastic response from all around.


    The battle was on the verge of erupting. Countless Tian family disciples surged forward, while an endless flood of ghostly creatures swarmed towards them. Though the ghosts were weak, their overwhelming numbers made them seem like a flood engulfing the Tian family.


    "sh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Most of the Tian family disciples could y dozens of ghosts with a single sword stroke. But as soon as a ghost was vanquished, more surged forward to fill the gap, continuing their advance on the Tian family.


    The number of ghosts kept increasing, as if the entire Ten Thousand Zhang Hell had diverted its ghostly inhabitants from the Yellow Springs Road towards the Tian family.


    The massacre was one-sided, but it seemed never-ending. Initially, the Tian family master watched the countless ghosts fall without much concern. However, after two hours, it became apparent that something was wrong. Where were all these ghostsing from? If the Tian family was surrounded by such ghosts, their numbers must be close to a billion!


    A low-ranking Tian family disciple, making a mistake, was suddenly scratched by a ghost and injured. The injury made him even more vulnerable, as the fearless ghosts swarmed over him, causing fear to spread among the previously confident disciples.


    "Father, the lower-ranked disciples aren''t enough!" Tian Xiao shook his head.


    "Oh?"


    "There are too many ghosts. Look at the vast encirclement. Although our disciples are constantly killing them, the circle is still shrinking. Sooner orter, they will break into the Tian family," Tian Xiao said, shaking his head.


    After a moment of silence, Tian Jizi issued another order.


    "Tian family disciples, hear mymand. Higher-ranked disciples, join the battle and annihte the iing ghosts!" Tian Jizi ordered.


    "Yes~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" came the response.


    Arge number of Tian family''s elite fighters rushed into the battle.


    However, this battle was just the appetizer for Zhong Shan.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A dragon''s roar echoed.


    Suddenly, a bizarre red dragon flew from the distance. No, it was a hollow red dragon, seemingly both real and unreal, like an unfinished drawing in an old painting.


    "A Feng Shui dragon?" Tian Lao''s eyes widened.


    "It''s Shenxiu!" Tian Xiao said timely.


    Sure enough, as soon as Tian Xiao spoke, everyone saw Shenxiu standing arrogantly atop the Feng Shui dragon''s head.


    "Hmph!" Tian Jizi snorted coldly.


    With a wave of his hand, a green long sword appeared in Tian Jizi''s hand��his exclusive sword, the Tian Vein Sword.


    As soon as the Tian Vein Sword appeared, a streak of sword energy shot straight towards Shenxiu atop the Feng Shui Dragon. The green sword energy was met with a blood-red sword energy from the distance, equally powerful and rising to meet it head-on.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    The two sword energies collided in an instant, causing the space around them to tremble violently. The powerful impact immediately obliterated countless ghostly creatures below and severely injured many low-ranking Tian family disciples.


    "Ye Qingcheng!" Tian Jizi shouted in anger, his eyes widening.


    Behind Shenxiu, the figure of Ye Qingcheng slowly emerged.


    "Master Shenxiu, you can go destroy the Tian family''s fortunes and karma now. Leave this ce to us!" Ye Qingcheng said with a smile.


    "Hmm," Shenxiu nodded.


    The Feng Shui Dragon swished its tail and moved towards the rear of the Tian family estate.


    "Where do you think you''re going~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~?" The female Tian Lao struck the ground with her staff, shattering arge stone, and then disappeared in pursuit of Shenxiu.


    "Ye Qingcheng, do you still wish to battle me?" Tian Jizi shouted coldly.


    "Tian Jizi, there''s nothing to discuss. We''ve alle here, what do you think we intend to do?" Ye Qingchengughed loudly.


    Suddenly, three more figures appeared high in the sky.


    It was Xing Taidou, the old eunuch, and a red-d expert from the Immortal World who had previously attacked the Tian family together.


    "Hmph, just the likes of you?" Tian Jizi sneered.


    At this moment, Tian Xiao instinctively felt something was amiss and wanted to warn Tian Jizi, but it was toote.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    ...


    Five more tremendous dragon roars echoed, and suddenly, from the four directions of the Tian family estate, five enormous green dragons, each five thousand feet long, flew in. These were the five Earth Immortals, each disying their most powerful forms upon arrival.


    "Attack!" Ye Qingcheng shouted.


    All the strong cultivators charged towards the Tian family.


    Tian Jizi was momentarily stunned by the sudden appearance of the five green dragons. Dragons? Where did theye from?


    "Father!" Tian Xiao shouted in rm.


    Tian Xiao''s face showed a worried expression, his earlierposurepletely gone. He never expected the appearance of these five-thousand-foot-long green dragons. What were they? Immortals? Only dragons that had reached the Immortal Realm could reach five thousand feet in length.


    Where did these green dragonse from?


    "Such audacity~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Tian Jizi roared in anger, waving the Tian Vein Sword to create a huge spatial rift, shing towards Xing Taidou.


    "ng~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Ye Qingcheng, wielding the Killing Immortal Sword, suddenly intercepted Tian Jizi.


    "Your opponent is me!" Ye Qingcheng said with a mocking expression.


    "Hmph!" Tian Jizi snorted coldly.


    Seeing the sudden appearance of ten powerful opponents, Tian Jizi felt a deep sense of regret. Ten formidable enemies? Regardless of the oue, the Tian family was in for a serious downfall this time. He truly shouldn''t have let Zhong Shan go!


    Tian Xiao felt the same. At this moment, he looked in the direction where Zhong Shan had left, his eyes filled with shock. How did Zhong Shan manage to gather such forces in just three months?


    "Defend the Tian family!" Tian Jizi roared, charging into the fray.


    Along with Tian Xiao, five Heaven Extreme Realm experts from the Tian family quickly rushed towards the other strong cultivators.


    War is brutal, and once it starts, there is no room for retreat.


    Outside, countless members of the Immortal World surrounded the inner area, while numerous subordinates of Xing Taidou also flew forward to attack. Endless ghostly creatures fearlessly charged at the Tian family.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    In the distance, a gigantic green dragon swung its massive tail hard onto Yun Peak, causing the five peaks of the Tian family to shake. Yun Peak shook the most violently, sending countless rocks tumbling down.

 Chapter 668: Upheaval

    <h4>Chapter 668: Upheaval</h4>


    Tian Jizi''s eyes were filled with rage and shock. The Tian family had always been the oppressor, ughtering and decreeing who would live or die. Anyone who vited the Tian family''s ancient pacts was doomed to death!


    The strength of the Tian family had given Tian Jizi the capital to look down on everyone else because he was backed by a group of Heaven Extreme Realm experts.


    But now?


    Tian Jizi was both shocked and furious. It was all because of Zhong Shan, that insignificant ant Zhong Shan. How had he managed to find so many Heaven Extreme Realm experts? Facing Ye Qingcheng, with Tian Lao against Shenxiu, the remaining five against eight?


    There were even three people each facing two opponents?


    People from the Grand World? More people from the Grand World again?


    Zhong Shan? This Zhong Shan had indeed colluded with people from the Grand World. As expected, Wei Yinn was a disaster, and this Zhong Shan was even more so.


    In just three short months, he had gathered so many powerful allies?


    High in the sky, a massive ck hole had formed, with many powerful figures attacking.


    The previouslyposed Tian family was now in chaos.


    Tian family disciples continued to fight the ghostly creatures, but their numbers only increased, leading to more and more injured disciples. At this rate, the Tian family would truly be in dire straits.


    But in the ck hole above, the Tian family''s strongest were too upied to aid the disciples below, as they were engaged in their own fierce battles.


    The battle was extremely unfavorable for the Tian family. For the first time, Tian Jizi tasted the bitterness of regret.


    It was all Zhong Shan''s fault. If he had killed Zhong Shan with a single sword strike earlier, none of this would have happened.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Tian Jizi let out a tremendous roar, pushing back Ye Qingcheng''s Killing Immortal Sword. Tian Jizi was incredibly powerful, strong enough that even a group of Azure Dragons in this minor world couldn''t match him. But his opponent, Ye Qingcheng, was equally formidable.


    Ye Qingcheng had broken through again after facing Nangong Shengst time. If Nangong Sheng hadn''t been prepared with the ''Heavenly Tribtion'' formation, Ye Qingcheng would have undoubtedly won. Moreover, Ye Qingcheng had other means that allowed him to escape.


    Ye Qingcheng, being the master of the Immortal World, was not to be underestimated. With the peerless Killing Immortal Sword, even the head of the world''s strongest family couldn''t easily defeat him!


    The battle raged on all sides, but some of the Tian family''s strong were already injured. After all, one person fighting two opponents could hold out for a while, but not indefinitely.


    As the saying goes, many ants can bite an elephant to death. No matter how strong the Tian family disciples were, they would eventually tire. More and more were getting injured, and the heavily injured low-ranking disciples retreated, leaving the battlefield to the higher-ranking disciples.


    "Woo~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    Suddenly, an ear-piercing wail echoed from all directions.


    This sound caused all the Tian family disciples to feel dizzy. This was the most powerful wail of a ghost.


    In the distance, a ck dot rapidly approached.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    A ten-zhang tall behemothnded with a tremendous crash, raising a cloud of dust.


    It was a humanoid monster, but it looked like a conjoined twin, squatting back-to-back. It had two heads, four arms, and four legs. Its face was hideous, each head sporting two fleshy horns, bald, with jet-ck skin, protruding red eyes, and fangs jutting from its mouth. Its arms seemed tattooed with various patterns.


    This was the Heaven Ghost, summoned by Mr. Corpse using a celestial corpse!


    Just one look at it made one''s skin crawl.


    "What is that thing?"


    "What kind of monster is this?" shouted the Tian family disciples in unison.


    In the ck hole above, Tian Jizi, battling Ye Qingcheng, turned his head just in time to see the enormous creature below.


    "Undying Heaven Ghost?!" Tian Jizi eximed.


    At this moment, Tian Jizi finally understood why so many ghostly creatures were swarming towards the Tian family. It was because of this Heaven Ghost. The Heaven Ghost could summon endless ghostly creatures. As long as the Heaven Ghost remained, the ghostly creatures would never stop.


    "What''s going on? How can there be an Undying Heaven Ghost in this realm? Where did you find it?" Tian Jizi shouted.


    Ye Qingcheng stared at Tian Jizi, relishing the moment. He enjoyed seeing Tian Jizi''s panic��it was exactly what he desired!


    The Heaven Ghost possessed the strength of the Heaven Extreme Realm!


    With the powerful Heaven Ghost''s arrival, the surrounding ghostly creatures'' eyes turned crimson, and they seemed to be even more ferocious.


    The Tian family disciples were now in deep trouble.


    One of the Heaven Ghost''s heads spewed a stream of ck gas from its mouth. Instantly, numerous Tian family disciples fell to the ground. As soon as they were engulfed by the ck gas, their bodies rapidly dposed, turning into piles of bones in the blink of an eye.


    A group of terrified Tian family disciples retreated in fear.


    When had the Tian family ever faced such a disaster? When had they ever encountered such cmity? These young disciples had never experienced such a blow. In the past, who dared not show respect to the Tian family when they ventured out?


    But now, it was a scene of utter annihtion! The Tian family disciples retreated, many crying out in fear as they fled.


    It was too terrifying!


    Tian Jizi''s regret was palpable, but what use was it now? He could only channel his immense hatred towards Zhong Shan. If not for him, how could the Tian family have suffered such a catastrophe?


    Zhong Shan? After this, I will tear you to pieces!


    Tian Jizi was filled with regret, and so was Tian Xiao. Tian Xiao had already raised his estimation of Zhong Shan''s capabilities several times, yet Zhong Shan continued to surprise him. This man was a true monster!


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"


    With a loud crash, Yun Peak, one of the five peaks, copsed.


    These five peaks had withstood spatial fractures and had even survived within the ck hole, but they could not endure the relentless attacks of the dragons. Finally, Yun Peak crumbled.


    With Yun Peak''s copse, the other four peaks'' downfall was only a matter of time.


    The upheaval was beyond words. The entire Tian family seemed on the brink of annihtion.


    Endless powerful figures and ghostly creatures, an alliance of eleven Heaven Extreme Realm experts, bombarded the Tian family, making it shake and seem on the verge of copse.


    From a distant, secluded mountain peak.


    Yi Lanque stood alone, watching the continuous assault on the Tian family in the distance, shaking his head in awe.


    "Upheaval, indeed, this is true upheaval. The Tian family will pay a heavy price this time. Zhong Shan? What a man Zhong Shan is. One strategy to overturn the heavens, causing such chaos without lifting a finger? His intellect is almost demonic!" Yi Lanque marveled.


    At that moment, Yi Lanque suddenly took out a pile of cards.


    After sifting through the cards, he picked one and put the rest away, leaving only this one.


    The top of the card bore two characters: ''Zhong Shan.''


    The card''s center detailed Zhong Shan''s various exploits, meticulously describing his ns, the Immortality Elixir, the Ten Thousand Phoenixes, and the Neen-wed Luck Dragon of the Great Zheng Empire in the Netherworld.


    Yi Lanque stared at the card, his eyes narrowing as several lines of text appeared on it.


    The cards read, step by step: "First step: Disgrace and tarnish reputation! Second step: Istion! Third step: Borrowing resources!" When Yi Lanque reached the fourth step, he frowned in thought.


    Finally, Yi Lanque continued to write the small characters: "Fourth step: Decoy and sabotage!"


    The fourth step, decoy and sabotage, encapsted Zhong Shan''s strategy perfectly.


    The fourth step was also Zhong Shan''s ultimate goal.


    Zhong Shan''s goal was simply Wei Yinn. Everything he had done, even turning the Tian family upside down, was all for this final step.


    With the sess of the first three steps, the fourth step naturally followed.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan was already swaggering through the inner grounds of the Tian family.


    Apanying Zhong Shan were Yin Luori and Xuanyuan.


    Seeing the chaos, the uproar, and the upheaval within the Tian family, both Yin Luori and Xuanyuan couldn''t help but twitch their faces.


    Yin Luori was utterly stunned. This��this was the Tian family? Was he seeing this correctly? The most powerful force in the underworld, reduced to this state? How could this happen? Yin Luori''s face twitched as he looked at Zhong Shan. This was all Zhong Shan''s doing, from beginning to end. Zhong Shan had just given orders, and then the Heaven Ghost had acted. When they hade, there were four of them, and none had suffered any harm. Wei Taizhong and Mr. Corpse had been idle, and Yin Luori had followed out of boredom.


    It seemed like they had done nothing, yet the Tian family was thrown into chaos? Yin Luori found it incredibly strange.


    With Yun Peak copsing, Xuanyuan''s face also twitched as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    Xuanyuan didn''t know the exact strength of the Tian family, but he could gauge it from the outside. Tian Jizi''s power was no less than his own, and yet this mighty Tian family was now paralyzed? Such a vast Tian family, and they could walk in and out as they pleased?


    "Don''t worry, Xuanyuan. These five Azure Dragons may not even need you to act. We''re heading to Jingbo Pool!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Uh, alright, alright!" Xuanyuan nodded, somewhat woodenly.


    Jingbo Pool, the deepest secret of the Tian family.


    It was located in a small valley deep within the Tian family''s grounds. Last time, Zhong Shan had found it with great difficulty.


    However, this time it was familiar territory. The Tian family was in chaos, and along the way, they only needed to knock out a few disciples. They slowly made their way to the valley.


    Amidst the widespread turmoil, the valley remained untouched.


    Countless formations enveloped the valley, shrouding it in a misty cloud.


    "Is this the ce?" Xuanyuan asked, frowning.


    "Be careful. Inside the formation, there is an absolute powerhouse guarding Jingbo Pool!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Hmm!" Xuanyuan nodded.


    Xuanyuan suddenly took out the ''First Dusting Brush.'' With a flick of the brush, countless bristles transformed into sharp swords, piercing the misty formation.


    "Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz...!"


    It sounded like the bristles were stabbing into stone, emitting a series of muffled sounds.


    Zhong Shan remained vignt, and Yin Luori became tense, knowing that they were about to face the true strength of the Tian family.


    "Rise~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Xuanyuan''s eyes widened, and with a loud shout, he forcefully broke the formation with the powerful artifact.

 Chapter 669: Tranquility in the Still-Wave Pool

    <h4>Chapter 669: Tranquility in the Still-Wave Pool</h4>


    "Boom~~~!"


    Xuan Yuan''s first dusting swept out, instantly dispersing the clouds and smoke of the formation. Spatial rifts tore through the air in all directions.


    "Boom boom boom~~~!"


    Mountains in the surrounding valleys copsed with thunderous roars.


    As the smoke cleared, revealing the inner scenery, there stood a simple thatched cottage beside a circr pool eighty-one zhang in diameter.


    Next to the pool was a small stone tablet with three protruding red characters: "Still-Wave Pool!"


    Xuan Yuan''s attack shattered the formation, causing a tremendous vibration that sent ripples through the Still-Wave Pool.


    As the heavens and earth turned upside down and fierce winds swept in all directions, this small pool remained serene, showing only the slightest ripple, unperturbed.


    "Squeak~~~"


    The door of the thatched cottage slowly opened, and a frail old man with white hair emerged.


    ncing at the sky and the copsed mountains of Yunfeng, and observing the formidable figures in the sky��five great Earth Immortals and even the Wayless Celestial Ghosts��the old man''s expression remained calm, as if the life and death struggle of the Tian Family had nothing to do with him.


    Finally, he turned his gaze to Zhongshan''s trio.


    When he saw Xuan Yuan''s first dusting, the old man''s eyes widened slightly.


    "The Pce of Genesis, the Pce Master?" the old man spoke.


    Xuan Yuan nodded.


    "And you, sneaking in silentlyst time, almost even hiding from me!" The old man looked at Zhongshan, his pupils narrowing.


    "Yin Zhi Zun, Xuan Yuan, stop him!" Zhongshan immediately ordered.


    The old man appeared indifferent, like a transcendent figure untethered from worldly affairs. However, Zhongshan had no time to ''chat'' with him. It was pointless to waste words. It was better to forcefully intrude into the Still-Wave Pool first! After all, today was about challenging the Tian Family, so why be polite?


    "Hahaha~~~"


    Zhongshan''s words made the old manugh angrily.


    "You''ve turned the Tian Family upside down, and now you want to break into the Still-Wave Pool? Apart from the master, anyone who enters the Still-Wave Pool will meet death!" The old man''s tone turned cold.


    But Zhongshan, apanied by Xuan Yuan and Yin Luo Yue, paid him no mind.


    Stepping toward the Still-Wave Pool!


    Seeing that the person in front of himpletely ignored him, the old man, despite his good manners, was angered. His figure flickered and disappeared on the spot. At the same time, Xuan Yuan also disappeared instantly. In an instant, Xuan Yuan saw the old man''s purpose, and his figure disappeared.


    "Boom~~~"


    With a loud noise, a powerful impact shattered the space, but neither the old man nor Xuan Yuan moved. The palms of the two were already a ck hole, and the surrounding space was shaken. Xuan Yuan stood in front of Zhongshan. The strange thing was that Xuan Yuan''s body was white and bright, and Zhongshan''s ce was not affected at all.


    Behind Xuan Yuan, a pair of Tianyin wings soared into the sky, with a strong momentum directly challenging the old man!


    Yin Luo Yue assisted on the side. Zhongshan was naturally assured.


    No matter how strong the old man was, he could not be the 12th in the realm of Tianji. With Xuan Yuan here, Zhongshan was enough to be assured. In addition to Yin Luo Yue, Zhongshan had no worries, and he walked directly to the edge of the Still-Wave Pool.


    The Still-Wave Pool, the strange Still-Wave Pool. Even under such a tremor, the Still-Wave Pool still has a very little effect.


    Inside the Still-Wave Pool, what appeared to be water was unlike any ordinary liquid��it possessed an eerie strangeness.


    Zhongshan hesitated not at all, stepping into the Still-Wave Pool.


    Without the usual sound of a ssh, he mysteriously entered its interior.


    Zhongshan walked on, entering the true heart of the Tian Family''s stronghold.


    This was not water. Zhongshan had already affirmed that this was not water but a concentration of spatial energy.


    A spatial aggregation?


    Frowning, Zhongshan looked onward. Descending further, he finally passed through a strange passage into the depths of the so-called Still-Wave Pool.


    Beneath the Still-Wave Pooly an enigmatic space.


    The space was pitch ck, filled with water below that was calm as a mirror, undisturbed by any ripples. In the distance, on the mirror-like surface of the water, floated nearly a thousandnterns emitting a yellow glow. Within eachntern flickered what seemed like a figure��ghosts, souls captured by the Tian Family, each trapped inside antern as if undergoing some eerie form of redemption.


    Above the water surface, there were also twenty-four cushions arranged in a line. From left to right, the second, seventh, and ninth cushions were empty. On the remaining twenty-one cushions sat individuals d in the Tian Family''s robes, each performing various hand seals, seemingly immersed in cultivation. Even with Zhongshan''s intrusion, not one of the twenty-one individuals stirred.


    Twenty-one people?


    Zhongshan was startled. Could they all be in the realm of Tianji? If the Tian Family was indeed like this, it would be truly terrifying��twenty-one Tianji realm experts? No, there were also eight outside, making it twenty-nine Tianji realm experts? And this didn''t even count the three empty cushions.


    Zhongshan''s scalp tingled. The Tian Family was too horrifying!


    So many powerful beings?


    However, strangely, why hadn''t these twenty-one individuals noticed him?


    Watching this hair-raising scene, Zhongshan took a deep breath. Since he hade this far, there was no room for retreat.


    With a flicker, he rapidly shot downwards.


    Although Zhongshan was only a distance of ten thousand zhang from the water surface, he bizarrely discovered that no matter how much he descended, there was still a distance of ten thousand zhang from the water surface?


    What was this?


    Increasing his speed, Zhongshan suddenly realized after half an incense stick of time that he had only descended by one zhang��just one zhang?


    A thousand miles apart?


    Zhongshan finally understood what "a thousand miles apart" meant. The internal space of the Still-Wave Pool operated under extremely peculiarws, making it impossible to reach the other side. Even if he sped up or spent more time, he couldn''tnd on the water surface.


    "Roar~~~!"


    Zhongshan let out a roar.


    However, his voice seemed unable to travel more than a zhang away��it couldn''t transmit at all, not even with his divine sense here. No wonder the twenty-one people hadn''t noticed Zhongshan.


    What was going on here? Maniption of spatialws?


    What should he do? Lingering here wasn''t an option. He had to plunge down, even if it caused damage beyond measure.


    Making up his mind, Zhongshan''s pupils suddenly contracted, then widened again, turning from their original ck to green.


    Unbeknownst to Zhongshan, as he entered this dark space, seated in meditation on the leading cushion among the twenty-one, an elderly figure furrowed his brow slightly. Clearly, he had sensed Zhongshan''s arrival but chose not to reveal it.


    Zhongshan''s pupils widened!


    "Reincarnation Passage, open!"


    With a thunderous shout, Zhong Shan''s voice echoed through the air. Suddenly, a swirl of ck mist materialized in the midair of this strange space. At the center of the mist, a green dot appeared, rapidly expanding into a ghostly, gaping maw. The immense suction from the Reincarnation Passage tore at the surrounding space.


    The powerful suction finally began to affect the environment. If this were the outside world, the space around would have shattered. However, the internal space here was incredibly sturdy, only trembling slightly. The calm, mirror-like water below began to ripple.


    "Pop!"


    A ripple spread towards the twenty-one formidable figures in the distance.


    "Whoosh..."


    All twenty-one opened their eyes simultaneously, their gazes filled with fierce hostility, directed straight at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s body stiffened as if he couldn''t move. Even the Reincarnation Passage abruptly copsed back into nothingness without his control. Thebined gaze of these twenty-one individuals was so overwhelming that it rendered Zhong Shan immobile. Was this the power of the Tian family?


    The group stared at Zhong Shan as if their gazes alone could prate his body. Each of these twenty-one seemed to possess the strength of a Tianji disciple. How could the Tian family have so many powerful individuals? It was simply too terrifying!


    Zhong Shan couldn''t move, not even to breathe properly. How could he possibly summon the Reincarnation Passage under such circumstances?


    "Ten of you, go out and see what''s happening with the Tian family," the leading elder ordered.


    "Yes!" The twelfth to the twenty-first individuals immediately stood up.


    The ten figures swiftly moved past Zhong Shan, seemingly unaffected by spatialws, and vanished in an instant.


    Inside, only eleven Tian family members remained.


    "Who are you?" the leader asked, fixing his gaze on Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan felt a powerful binding force in the surrounding space, preventing him from moving. Suddenly, he realized he could speak.


    "I am a direct disciple of the Tian family head!" Zhong Shan quickly eximed.


    "The direct disciple of Tianji?" The elder sneered.


    "No, I am a direct disciple of Tianxing!" Zhong Shan hastily corrected himself.


    "Nonsense, since when did the Tian family head be Tianxing?" the third man roared angrily.


    The leader''s eyes narrowed, but he did not rebuke Zhong Shan. Instead, he stared at him intently. "Tianxing?"


    "My master gave me a token!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Ridiculous! Do you think we are so easily deceived? Do you know where you are? Don''t think you can leave once you''re here!" another Tian family member shouted angrily.


    "Oh?" The leader looked at Zhong Shan with curiosity.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan realized he could move again.


    He quickly activated a spell, conjuring an illusion of a token in front of him. The illusion depicted the token that Tianxing had once given him, the ''Tian Token.''


    Zhong Shan dared not take out the actual token, but he could project its illusion with his magic.


    At first, some of the people sneered at Zhong Shan''s illusion. But as they saw the solemn expressions on the others, they took a closer look. Upon careful inspection, almost everyone''s pupils contracted.


    "The... Tian Token?" someone eximed in surprise.


    Immediately, everyone gave Zhong Shan a deep look and then turned their gazes towards the leading elder.

 Chapter 670: The Blood Shura

    <h4>Chapter 670: The Blood Shura</h4>


    The leading elder, with the highest prestige, spoke for the entire Tian family in such solemn asions. When Zhong Shan conjured the illusion of the Tian Token, a strange scene unfolded. He felt the illusion of the Tian Token in his hand slowly merge with the surrounding space, and a sense of relief surged into his heart.


    Illusion? It was just a mirage based on the appearance of the Tian Token. How could it blend with this space? Could it be that this Jingbo Pool was connected to the Tian Token?


    Puzzled, Zhong Shan extended his divine sense. Sure enough, the space no longer obstructed him, as if the mere illusion of the Tian Token allowed him to move freely within the Jingbo Pool. Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow. There was indeed a great secret within the Tian Token, and the strange patterns on it must have significant meaning.


    "Tian Chenzi, greeting the bearer of the Yang Realm family head''s token," the leading elder said calmly.


    "Tian Chenzi? You are the family head from the Yin Realm two generations ago?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    ording to legend, Tian Chenzi, the family head from two generations ago, had left the Small Thousand World. Why was he here?


    "Indeed. May I ask your name?" The elder nodded.


    Zhong Shan felt a tightness in his chest. From the elder''s demeanor, it was clear he had respect for the Tian Token, but no fear.


    "Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan replied in a deep voice.


    "Does the Tian family still exist in the Yang Realm?" Tian Chenzi''s gaze seemed to pierce into Zhong Shan''s soul.


    "What do you think?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    He felt slightly nervous, unsure of Tian Chenzi''s attitude. However, he maintained a facade of calm confidence.


    "Where is the real Tian Token?" Tian Chenzi frowned.


    "It''s naturally with the family head," Zhong Shan responded with a faint smile.


    "Do you know where this ce is?" Tian Chenzi asked sternly.


    "Am I not allowed here with the illusion of the Tian Token?" Zhong Shan countered with a smile.


    "The Tian Token is known only to the elders of the Tian family. Seeing its image is as if the family head is present, and the Jingbo Pool responds to its presence. This is indeed the Tian Token. However, the Tian family of the Yin and Yang Realms have long been divided. We no longer need to abide by the Tian Token''s rules," Tian Chenzi said indifferently.


    The others frowned but remained silent since Tian Chenzi had spoken.


    The Tian family of the Yin and Yang Realms had long been divided? Zhong Shan detected a critical point in Tian Chenzi''s words. The Tian family was once united, and the family head''s token was the Tian Token. Zhong Shan smirked inwardly.


    "Whether or not you abide by it is up to you. I don''t intend to demand anything. I only want what belongs to me," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Tian Chenzi''s pupils contracted upon hearing this, and the others also became tense, their eyes shing with anger.


    Huh? Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback by their reaction. What did he say to provoke such a response?


    "What belongs to you? What do you mean?" Tian Chenzi''s voice was cold.


    "Two ghosts from the Yang Realm, imprisoned here by you," Zhong Shan stated firmly.


    The others were clearly surprised, exchanging puzzled nces. The initial anger in their eyes dissipated, reced by a strange expression. Ghosts?


    "Just ghosts?" one of them couldn''t help but ask.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    From the man''s words, Zhong Shan detected a hint of something unusual, as if there was something significant from the Yang Realm Tian family hidden here.


    Everyone shared strange nces before all eyes turned to Tian Chenzi.


    "Is there any difficulty?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    Tian Chenzi closed his eyes, seemingly deep in thought. After a moment, he opened them and said, "Very well, since you are a guest from the Yang Realm Tian family, how could we not show you respect?"


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan smiled, silently sighing in relief. He had managed to bluff his way through.


    Just then, a figure burst in from outside. His clothes were torn, his hair slightly disheveled, and he looked extremely agitated. It was Tian Ji!


    Upon entering the Jingbo Pool, Tian Ji immediately spotted Zhong Shan.


    "It''s you? You wretch��!"


    As soon as Tian Ji entered, he angrily roared at Zhong Shan and charged at him with his sword.


    "Stop��!" Tian Chenzi''s furious shout halted Tian Ji in his tracks. He turned to look at Tian Chenzi.


    "Great Elder, it''s him! He''s the one who caused chaos in the Tian family. Three of the Five Peaks��Feng Shui Peak, Luck Peak, and umting Yin Virtue Peak��have copsed. Countless ghosts have invaded the Tian family, and many of our disciples are injured. The mighty Tian family has been reduced to ruins. He colluded with people from the Great Thousand World. If he doesn''t die, I cannot rest easy. If he doesn''t die, it would be a disgrace to the ancestral teachings of the Tian family!" Tian Ji shouted.


    "In the Jingbo Pool, you have no right to act so recklessly!" Tian Chenzi rebuked sternly.


    Everyone else, adhering to Tian Chenzi''s authority, looked at Tian Ji with dissatisfaction.


    "The disaster in the Tian family happened because you failed to protect it!" Tian Chenzi scolded.


    Tian Chenzi''s words were like a bucket of cold water poured over Tian Ji, instantly calming him down.


    "Tian Ji, don''t nder me. The catastrophe in the Tian family, wasn''t it because of what you desired?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Nonsense! What did I desire? When did I desire anything?" Tian Ji roared in anger.


    "I knew you wouldn''t admit it, so I recorded it," Zhong Shan said, suddenly smiling.


    "Huh?"


    Everyone looked puzzled. Tian Ji red at Zhong Shan, who then took out a memory crystal.


    With a surge of his power, Zhong Shan activated the crystal, projecting the scene of their first encounter��


    "Tian family head, I will prove my words. In a few days, I, Zhong Shan, will return to the Tian family. I will show you what it means to regret, what it means to turn the world upside down!"


    "You want to turn my Tian family upside down? Fine, let''s see if you have that ability!" Tian Ji''s disdainful smile was clearly shown in the scene.


    "I will. I, Zhong Shan, will return soon. I won''t need the family head''s order. I will enter the Jingbo Pool myself!" Zhong Shan''s cold snort echoed.


    The scene vividly disyed Tian Ji''s disdain and Zhong Shan''s words, with Tian Ji''s ''Fine'' ringing loudly.


    Tian Ji''s face turned beet red.


    "How about it, Tian Ji? Have I wronged you?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "You scoundrel... You dared to trap me?" Tian Ji''s eyes burned with fury.


    "This is the Yin Realm Tian family. How could I trap you? Tian Ji, please conduct yourself with dignity," Zhong Shan said, his expression serious.


    "You...!" Tian Ji was on the verge of losing control.


    "Enough!" Tian Chenzi''s cold shout silenced everyone.


    Tian Ji''s expression tightened, as if he had more to say.


    "Still not satisfied with your disgrace? Stand aside!" Tian Chenzi scolded.


    Tian Ji looked around and saw the disapproving faces of the elders. Realizing the severity of the situation, he grudgingly stepped aside with a resentful look.


    "These are the two ghosts," Zhong Shan said, using his magic to project the images of Wei Yinn and Xuan Yuan''s wife.


    "Wei Yinn!" one of the Tian family elders suddenly shouted in anger.


    Several others also red at the projection of Wei Yinn with fury. Seeing their reactions and remembering Tian Ji''s initial attitude, Zhong Shan''s heart, which had just started to calm, began to race again.


    "What''s the matter?" Zhong Shan asked immediately.


    The previously calm elders suddenly looked fierce, except for Tian Chenzi, who remained serene.


    "You''re toote," Tian Chenzi said.


    A sense of foreboding washed over Zhong Shan, and his demeanor turned sharply intense. "What do you mean?" he asked in a deep voice.


    "She was sent to the Jingbo Pool some time ago. Her talent was extraordinary, and we intended to nurture her. However, her talent was too overwhelming," Tian Chenzi sighed.


    "What do you mean?"


    "She had a unique attribute that was enhanced during her journey through the Yellow Springs. On the day she entered the Jingbo Pool, it seemed to trigger this attribute. That day, her body emitted an immense and terrifying blood fiend energy, far beyond our control. It pierced the skies and even reached through the Small Thousand World, attracting the attention of a powerful being from the Great Thousand World, who forcefully took Yinn. Our second, seventh, and ninth elders died at the hands of this supreme being," Tian Chenzi exined.


    "What did you say?" Zhong Shan asked in disbelief, taking a deep breath.


    One of the elders then produced a memory crystal, which contained some blurry images.


    In the projection, a giant figure with a pair of enormous blood-colored bone horns on its head, blood-red eyes, and skin seemingly soaked in blood, wielded a massive Fang Tian Halberd in one hand and a small bottle in the other. The bottle sucked in a ghost��it was Wei Yinn. In an instant, the giant captured Yinn, roared triumphantly, and appeared ted.


    "Blood Fiend Divine Soul? I finally have a disciple! Hahaha!"


    The image abruptly ended.


    "Is he strong?" Zhong Shan asked gravely.


    "Peak Tianxian level. Three of our elders perished at his hands. What do you think?" Tian Chenzi replied with a frown.


    "What is he?" Zhong Shan asked, furrowing his brows.


    "A member of a race from the Great Thousand World, known as the Blood Shura," Tian Chenzi replied, taking a deep breath.


    Yinn was taken to the Great Thousand World? Zhong Shan suddenly felt a hollow emptiness inside him and furrowed his brows tightly.


    "Take this memory crystal," the elder who had produced it said, tossing it to Zhong Shan.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan said, carefully putting it away.


    "Tian Token?" Tian Ji suddenly eximed, staring at the magical token before Zhong Shan.


    Only then did Tian Ji notice the token conjured by Zhong Shan''s magic. Though he didn''t recognize it, he inferred its significance from the elders'' reactions.


    Ignoring Tian Ji, Zhong Shan pointed to the other woman and said, "This woman is the wife of a friend of mine."

 Chapter 671: Bai Qi

    <h4>Chapter 671: Bai Qi</h4>


    Outside the Tian family grounds, three peerless experts besieged Tian Gui. With a final, agonized scream, Tian Gui exploded, disintegrating into billions of ghosts that scattered among the ruins.


    The three peerless experts, dressed in white, their long hair flowing, exchanged grave looks. The various battle fronts had mostly calmed. With the ten formidable figures emerging from the Jingbo Pool, the previously precarious Tian family suddenly gained the most powerful support.


    Among them, the most sensitive was Ye Qingcheng. The immortal lord Ye Qingcheng, while battling Tian Ji, suddenly sensed three powerful auras. Yin Luori? Ye Qingcheng immediately recognized one of them. So Zhong Shan had hidden another trump card.


    With no further interest in fighting, Ye Qingcheng''s eyes narrowed. Suddenly, ten more incredibly powerful auras surged skyward. Without hesitation, Ye Qingcheng flickered to a red-robed man nearby and uttered a single word, "Leave." The two turned and fled.


    Ten more? The Tian family could casually muster ten such experts? Ye Qingcheng fled without looking back.


    The ten powerful figures dispersed in all directions. For the visitors from the Great Thousand World, they showed no mercy, ughtering them with overwhelming force.


    Xing Taidou perished, Shenxiu perished, Tian Gui disintegrated, the old eunuch died, and two earth immortals were executed on the spot. Three more earth immortals fled, with Tian family experts in hot pursuit.


    The situation changed rapidly, revealing the formidable heritage of the Tian family. When they finally acted, it was with overwhelming might.


    These ten experts, each immensely powerful and ferocious, were the true masters of the Tian family.


    All fronts were stabilized, leaving only Xuan Yuan and Yin Luori outside the Jingbo Pool!


    Three elders surrounded the two, along with the elder guarding the Jingbo Pool, making it four against Xuan Yuan.


    Xuan Yuan formed hand seals, not engaging directly. He knew that even if he were stronger, he couldn''t face these ten top experts alone. The Tian family was indeed the number one power in the Netherworld.


    Xuan Yuan''s hand seals created a massive sphere of light that enveloped him and Yin Luori, forming the strongest defense of the Creation God Pce. Despite the three experts'' fierce assaults, the barrier held firm.


    Yin Luori was horrified by the sudden turn of events. "Damn, is this the Tian family? Ten more experts of such caliber?"


    Cold sweat dripped from Yin Luori''s forehead. As more Tian family experts gathered, his fear grew. ncing at the meditative Xuan Yuan, he was at a loss.


    The three experts'' attacks on the light barrier were fruitless. When the three who had defeated Tian Gui returned, there were now seven experts.


    "Kill!" one of them shouted.


    Seven? Xuan Yuan''s eyes opened, recognizing the peril. His silver pupils were about to unleash their power when��


    "Stop!" a loud voicemanded.


    Everyone turned to see Zhong Shan emerging from the Jingbo Pool with another Tian family elder. Everyone looked curiously at Zhong Shan, who seemed unscathed.


    "The Great Elder''s order is to let them go," the elder dered.


    The Tian family experts frowned but had toply.


    "Yes!" the powerful figures sheathed their swords and stood down.


    Xuan Yuan breathed a sigh of relief and looked at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nodded, indicating they should leave.


    Without a word, Xuan Yuan withdrew his defense and, with Yin Luori, walked towards Zhong Shan.


    The three of them stepped forward, leaving the Tian family grounds and shooting off into the distance.


    Watching Zhong Shan and hispanions depart, the members of the Tian family felt a mix of resentment and frustration. However, the Great Elder''smand was absolute, and no one dared to disobey.


    As Zhong Shan''s group left, the man turned to the others and said, "The Great Elder has ordered that the Tian family''s Heaven Extreme Realm experts follow me into the Jingbo Pool!"


    "Yes!" The powerful figures could only nod in agreement.


    Zhong Shan''s group quickly distanced themselves from the Tian family grounds. The Tian family''s foundation was too terrifying. The Jingbo Pool alone housed so many old monsters, it was best to leave as soon as possible.


    Finding a secluded spot, the three of them reunited with Mr. Corpse and Wei Taizhong.


    "Your Majesty, where is Yinn?" Wei Taizhong immediately asked.


    Zhong Shan sighed deeply and took out the memory crystal. He then recounted the events to Wei Taizhong.


    Wei Taizhong fell silent as he stared at the memory crystal for a long time.


    "Your Majesty, that Blood Shura left the Tian family, but the Tian family isn''t certain he left this Small Thousand World. I want to search for her again," Wei Taizhong said.


    "You should know, at the peak of the Tianxian level, he can''t stay in this world for long. Entering the Small Thousand World with strength above the Tianxian level not only restricts him, but the Great Thousand World will also punish him," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head and sighing.


    "Please, Your Majesty, allow me to try," Wei Taizhong suddenly knelt on the ground.


    "Go ahead, be careful, and if you encounter any trouble, return to the Dazhen Empire immediately," Zhong Shan sighed.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Wei Taizhong said gratefully. He then turned and flew off in a chosen direction.


    Watching Wei Taizhong leave, Zhong Shan sighed softly.


    "Did you find it?" Xuan Yuan finally couldn''t help but ask.


    Looking at Xuan Yuan, Zhong Shan sighed and took out a circr jade pendant.


    "What is this?" Xuan Yuan''s eyelids twitched.


    "When she walked the Yellow Springs Road, her dark attribute was enhanced. Unfortunately, upon entering the Netherworld, she emitted endless dark energy, attracting countless ghosts who attacked and tried to steal her dark energy. If not for the Tian family disciples who found her, she would have been dispersed. However, her soul was already fractured. The Tian family used this jade pendant to contain her scattered soul, hoping she might recover one day," Zhong Shan exined.


    Xuan Yuan gently took the jade pendant, his eyes filled with affection.


    "The Tian family doesn''t know when she will recover. It could be a hundred years, it could be a million years," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    Xuan Yuan felt aplex mix of emotions but still thanked Zhong Shan, "Thank you."


    Seeing Xuan Yuan''s low spirits, Zhong Shan understood he wanted some time alone and said no more.


    "Farewell," Zhong Shan said.


    "Hmm," Xuan Yuan nodded. With the jade pendant in hand, he disappeared from Zhong Shan''s sight.


    "What does the Tian family do with so many ghosts?" Yin Luori asked, frowning.


    "What do they do? It''s for the benefit of the Tian family, of course," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "Eh?" Yin Luori was puzzled.


    "These ghosts have all undergone the baptism of the Yellow Springs Road. They are among the best of the best. After being trained by the Tian family elders, they are reincarnated into Tian family disciples. How could the Tian family not be strong?" Zhong Shan exined solemnly.


    "But...how? Would reincarnated people recognize the Tian family?" Yin Luori asked incredulously.


    "Some ghosts have their memories erased, while others can''t. This isn''t unique to this Small Thousand World; it''s happened in other Small Thousand Worlds too," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Training disciples from before their reincarnation, huh!" Zhong Shan revealed a peculiar smile.


    "Your Majesty, what should we do next?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "Let''s return to the court," Zhong Shan sighed.


    "Yes, Your Majesty."


    In the Jingbo Pool!


    The Tian family experts recounted the events. Everyone fell silent, their eyes collectively turning to the Great Elder, Tian Chenzi. With his eyes closed, Tian Chenzi seemed deep in thought.


    "Great Elder, since the Tian Token has appeared, the Tian family in the Yang Realm surely can''t keep it. The peak lord of Yun Peak died because of Zhong Shan. Should we...?" Tian Ji suggested hopefully.


    Tian Chenzi''s eyes snapped open, icy cold.


    The cold gaze sent shivers down Tian Ji''s spine, silencing everyone else.


    Tian Chenzi stared at Tian Ji in deep silence before speaking calmly, "Tian Ji."


    "Yes!" Tian Ji responded immediately.


    "You are no longer fit to be the family head. As of today, you are relieved of your duties," Tian Chenzi said tly.


    Everyone was shocked, their eyes widening in surprise. Being relieved of the family head position was a severe demotion.


    "Great Elder, I...!" Tian Ji''s face turned pale.


    "Go to the entrance of the Yellow Springs Road, build a hut, and reflect on your actions. When you have gained insight, return to see me," Tian Chenzi ordered.


    "This... this is..." Tian Ji nodded bitterly.


    "Tian Xiao!" Tian Chenzi called.


    "Present!" Tian Xiao stepped forward immediately.


    "From today, you are the new family head. You are granted the title ''Tian Xiaozi,''" Tian Chenzi dered.


    "Yes!" Tian Xiao nodded after a deep look at Tian Chenzi.


    "Dismissed!" Tian Chenzi said.


    The Heaven Extreme Realm experts living outside bowed and left.


    Tian Ji was dazed, and the newly appointed Tian Xiaozi showed no excitement in his expression.


    Outside the Jingbo Pool, the group dispersed. In the Tianmai Hall, Tian Ji handed over several heirlooms to Tian Xiaozi.


    Seeing his father''s dejected look, Tian Xiaozi sighed and advised, "Father, do you know why the Great Elder sent you to the entrance of the Yellow Springs Road?"


    Seeing Tian Xiaozi''s question, Tian Ji looked up, a trace of confusion in his eyes.


    "The Great Elder is a man of great wisdom. Sending you to the entrance of the Yellow Springs Road to reflect has a purpose. I won''t say more. I hope you understand it yourself," Tian Xiaozi sighed.


    Six monthster, in the Yang Realm, at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    In Zhong Shan''s study within Tianyuan Pavilion, Zhong Shan reviewed several intelligence reports. Several legionmanders stood in the study, discussing intelligence from all corners.


    "Your Majesty, the scouts have just reported something strange happening at the Marquis of Wu''an''s mansion in the Great Qin Dynasty," Shui Jing said, fanning himself with a feather fan.


    "Oh?"


    "ording to a scout, four months ago, at the Marquis of Wu''an''s mansion, a surge of killing intent darkened the sky, with shadows of ughter filling the heavens. Within a hundred miles, all livestock died from fear, and countless civilians were terrified, prostrating themselves on the ground. The spiritual energy in the area became chaotic and terrifying. They heard a voice from within," Shui Jing reported.


    "Oh? What voice?" Shui Wuhen asked curiously.


    "It was likely Xu Fu of the Great Qin Dynasty. He shouted, ''Soul, return!'' and the endless killing intent slowly subsided," Shui Jing said with a frown.


    "Did the Marquis of Wu''an''s name change?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "Your Majesty, you knew?" Shui Jing asked in surprise.


    "Continue."


    "Yes, just as Your Majesty predicted, after that day, the Marquis of Wu''an, Bai Ye, changed his name to Bai Qi," Shui Jing said, looking at Zhong Shan in astonishment. How did His Majesty know about this before it was reported?

 Chapter 672: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Breakthrough

    <h4>Chapter 672: Zhong Shan''s Breakthrough</h4>


    The renaming of Bai Ye to Bai Qi in the Great Qin Dynasty caused a massive stir in Xianyang, with a surge of killing intent that shocked the entire city. Most people thought Bai Ye had simply broken through to a new level of cultivation, thus adopting the name Bai Qi. However, only Zhong Shan understood the significance of the name. A God of War had been born!


    In Earth''s history, Bai Qi was a legendary figure, known as the ''Butcher of Men.'' During the Warring States period, he was a general of the Qin State and yed an indispensable role in its eventual unification under Qin Shi Huang. Bai Qi never lost a battle, his prowess in both personalbat and military strategy was unmatched. His presence on the battlefield was so fearsome that it could rout enemy forces just by his appearance.


    Bai Qi? Soul, return?


    Outside the Longevity Hall, Zhong Shan held a bundle in his hands, deep in thought about Bai Qi. At this moment, Di Xuansha appeared beside him.


    "Di Xuansha, I must trouble you again," Zhong Shan said.


    "Let''s go. I''m curious to see how your breakthrough will be this time," Di Xuansha replied with a sigh.


    The two took off from Lingxiao Heavenly Court, heading towards the South Sea at great speed. Five dayster, they arrived at a remote sea area and found a deserted ind. Di Xuansha began to guard Zhong Shan.


    On the ind, Zhong Shan set up numerous formations and entered a pce he had taken out from his bundle.


    Inside the hall, Zhong Shan took out two items: the Immortal Artifact Xinghuang g and the Witch Artifact Staff, which had been sent to him via the Yin-Yang Road.


    Well-practiced in the process, Zhong Shan quickly consumed them using the Baji Tianwei.


    Three dayster, endless ck clouds covered the sky above the ind, and lightning continuously struck the sea below. The sky was filled with a thunderstorm, as if endless magma was pouring down, vast and boundless.


    The powerful lightning scorched the sea, causing it to evaporate furiously. Within a million-mile radius, thick fog enveloped the area, making it look like the end of the world.


    Di Xuansha watched the sky with a sigh.


    Infinite lightning, Heavenly Thunder? This was approaching the power of ''Heaven.''


    To what extent was Zhong Shan breaking through?


    With the Immortal Artifact and Witch Artifact, Zhong Shan''s cultivation surged rapidly. Originally at the second level of the Emperor Extreme Realm, he ascended swiftly:


    Emperor Extreme Realm, third level!


    Fourth level!


    Fifth level!


    He ascended three levels in a row, reaching the fifth level of the Emperor Extreme Realm!


    The power of two Immortal-grade treasures allowed Zhong Shan''s cultivation to advance rapidly. For someone like Zhong Shan to achieve such feats within two hundred years was astonishing, the energy required was equally incredible.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan felt as if his entire body was brimming with power.


    The Baji Tianwei flew out of his body, soaring into the sky and transforming into a colossal creature that covered the heavens.


    Its eight massive tails swayed gently, causing the surrounding space to tremble violently. The powerful vibrations dispersed the surrounding thunderclouds, and the vast sea surged with towering waves. Everything within range was reduced to dust. All living creatures were annihted.


    Even Di Xuansha, who had flown to the side, was shocked to see space cracks appearing wherever the colossal creature''s tails passed. It was tearing through space?


    Di Xuansha stared in astonishment at the massive creature. What kind of monstrosity was this? How could it be so exaggerated?


    Thest time, it had merely shaken the space, but now it was capable of breaking it? It could shatter the void?


    "Whooosh..."


    The Baji Tianwei seemed to release Zhong Shan''s breakthrough impulse, instantly returning to his body. Below, the deserted ind was once again reduced to dust, leaving only Zhong Shan standing on the ocean''s surface.


    The surrounding space gradually stabilized, and Di Xuansha flew over.


    "How do you feel?" Di Xuansha asked gravely.


    "Unfortunately, I only advanced three levels," Zhong Shan sighed and shook his head.


    Di Xuansha couldn''t help but sweat. The further one progressed in cultivation, the harder it became, especially in the Emperor Extreme Realm. Each level was a monumental challenge. Even as a prodigious cultivator, Di Xuansha couldn''t imagine achieving what Zhong Shan had. Advancing three levels? Other Emperor Extreme Realm cultivators would probably feel like banging their heads against a wall.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright."


    The two flew rapidly towards Shenzhou.


    Meanwhile, the catastrophic event they caused soon reached the ears of those in the Xuanwu Pce.


    In the Xuanwu Pce, a young man in white robes was reading a scroll. Suddenly, Xuanwu King Xuan Yan burst in.


    "Young Master, another ind in the South Sea has been reduced to dust!" Xuan Yan reported.


    "Oh?" The young man''s pupils contracted.


    "With the Supreme not here, what should we do?" Xuan Yan asked.


    "The Supreme has gone to the Longevity Realm. Let''s go and take a look," the young man said.


    "Yes!"


    Soon, the two arrived at the sea where Zhong Shan had been. The ind had vanished, and all life in the sea had been pulverized.


    "Young Master, this..." Xuan Yan frowned.


    "Search within a radius of a million, even ten million miles!" the young man ordered.


    "Yes!"


    Quickly, arge number of Xuanwu n members were summoned to search for any suspicious urrences.


    Half a monthter:


    "Young Master, we''ve found something!" Xuan Yan reported excitedly.


    "Oh?"


    The two arrived at a section of the sea, where arge-eyed fish was floating.


    The fish''s internal organs were shattered, but its eyes were wide open, eerily reying the previous events in this sea.


    "A memory fish?" the young man eximed in delight.


    "Memory crystals are modeled after these fish''s eyes. Its body must not be touched, or all records will be lost. Look, Young Master," Xuan Yan pointed at the fish''s eyes.


    In the fish''s eyes, they saw a sky full of violent lightning, the sea covered in steam as if it were the end of the world. Then, a powerful spatial disturbance turned everything to dust.


    Although the fish''s eyes couldn''t capture the Baji Tianwei from a hundred thousand miles away, they showed the chaotic sea. Shortly after, two figures shot into view, and then the memory fishpletely lost its life.


    "Zhong Shan?" The young man eximed, his pupils contracting.


    He was stunned, his expression constantly changing as Xuan Yan stood beside him.


    "What should we do, Young Master?" After a while, Xuan Yan finally asked.


    "Boom!"


    The young man crushed the memory fish with a palm strike, taking a deep breath. "Do not let the Supreme know about this! Destroy all the memory fish carcasses nearby!"


    "Yes, Young Master!" Xuan Yan replied, hurrying to carry out the order.


    "Young Master, not informing the Supreme? But this..." Xuan Yan frowned.


    "Xuan Yan, didn''t you say you supported me? If we inform the Supreme, he will certainly tell the Longevity Realm. We cannot let the Longevity Realm know about this," the young man said sternly.


    "Young Master, you..." Xuan Yan seemed to realize something.


    Looking at Xuan Yan, the young man nodded. "Let''s wait and see. At the very least, we can''t let the Longevity Realm benefit from this."


    "Yes," Xuan Yan replied immediately.


    Zhong Shan broke through to the fifth level of the Emperor Extreme Realm and returned to Lingxiao Heavenly Court, resuming his usual routines. Meanwhile, in the eastern part of Shenzhou, the East Sea Dragon Pce received two unexpected guests.


    "Master, is it really you?" the Dragon n Supreme, Ao Sihai, called out excitedly.


    One of the guests was Ao Lie, who hade from the Netherworld, apanied by another Earth Immortal.


    "Ao Lie, let''s get what we came for and return to report to our lord. This Small Thousand World is too terrifying. Why are there so many powerful beings?" the other Earth Immortal said fearfully.


    "Master, who is this?" Ao Sihai asked, looking at the other man.


    Ao Lie also nced at him and said, "Sigh, who knew the Tian family would be so terrifying? Fortunately, we escaped in time; otherwise, we would have ended up like them,pletely annihted. The Tian family is terrifying!"


    "Indeed," the Earth Immortal agreed, still shaken.


    "And the Tian family might have even more formidable individuals," Ao Lie added, frowning.


    Thinking about the Tian family and the possibility of stronger beings, the Earth Immortal shivered. It was too frightening!


    "Hurry and get the job done. I remember you saying that the Yang Realm in this Small Thousand World is the most powerful, while the Netherworld is slightly less terrifying. If the Netherworld is already this scary, how much more dangerous must the Yang Realm be?" the Earth Immortal said.


    "Master, what are you talking about?" Ao Sihai asked, puzzled.


    "Never mind that. We are here to retrieve the Dragon n''s heirloom seal. Where is it? A lord from the Great Thousand World has decided to lead us to open the Dragon n''s secret realm," Ao Lie demanded.


    "The heirloom seal?" Ao Sihai frowned.


    Seeing Ao Sihai''s expression, Ao Lie felt a bad premonition.


    "What''s wrong?" Ao Lie asked immediately.


    "It''s gone."


    "What do you mean, gone?" Ao Lie''s eyes widened.


    "Thest descendant of the Haotian lineage stole it!" Ao Sihai exined helplessly.


    "Stole? How could you let that happen? Do you know what that heirloom is? How could you not retrieve it?" Ao Lie raged.


    "But she vanished!" Ao Sihai said miserably.


    "Vanished? How?" Ao Lie was truly enraged. From the moment he entered the Small Thousand World, nothing had gone smoothly.


    "Here''s what happened..." Ao Sihai began to exin.


    "Di Xuansha?" Ao Lie''s eyes narrowed.


    Mentioning Di Xuansha brought back unpleasant memories for Ao Lie. Back then, he was so powerful and domineering, but in the end, he was forced out of the Small Thousand World by Di Xuansha. That grudge would never be forgotten.


    "Wait, what did you just say? What is the name of the emperor of that dynasty?" the other Earth Immortal suddenly asked, raising an eyebrow.


    "His name is Zhong Shan! The Dazhen Empire!" Ao Sihai emphasized again.


    "Zhong Shan? Did you say Zhong Shan? Damn, what a coincidence!" The Earth Immortal rubbed his forehead, frowning.


    "Zhong Shan? The leader who destroyed the Tian family alliance is also named Zhong Shan?" Ao Lie''s eyes narrowed.


    "Master, what are you saying?"


    "Never mind, let''s go to Tiang Ind to retrieve the heirloom seal!" Ao Lie shook his head.


    Ao Lie was still seething with anger and needed to find Di Xuansha to vent. His adventures in the Great Thousand World had elevated him to the level of an Earth Immortal. This time, he hoped to avenge his past humiliation.


    "It''s at Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Master, follow me!" Ao Sihai said excitedly, still unable to forget the grudge from being thrashed by Di Xuansha before.

 Chapter 673: The Grand Whale Swallowing Plan

    <h4>Chapter 673: The Grand Whale Swallowing n</h4>


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, within the Tianyuan Pavilion, Zhongshan''s study was quiet.


    The study was cleared of all but two people: Zhongshan and Yi Yan, themander of the third legion of the Great Zhou Dynasty.


    "Your Majesty, the world is growing increasingly chaotic, and our situation is bing more precarious," Yi Yan sighed, shaking his head.


    "Oh?"


    "To the east, west, and north of Shenzhou, wars are incessant. Every day, millions perish in these colossal conflicts. While the South remains rtively peaceful, it''s only because of a delicate bnce among the twenty-five Southern Dynasties. The other twenty-four dynasties are just biding their time, ready to erupt at the slightest provocation," Yi Yan exined, taking a deep breath.


    "Twenty-four dynasties?" Zhongshan tapped his fingers lightly on the table.


    "Your Majesty, our Great Zhou Dynasty has be a thorn in the eyes of the surrounding dynasties. The South has avoidedrge-scale wars mainly because of our stabilizing influence. However, once the mes of war from the East or West spread to the South, they will no longer hold back," Yi Yan said, his concern evident.


    "What is the state of our military preparations?" Zhongshan asked.


    "We are well-equipped for defense butck the strength for a significant offensive," Yi Yan replied honestly.


    "Hmm." Zhongshan pondered, hands sped behind his back.


    "Your Majesty, now is the time to expand our military forces. The Da Rong Chamber of Commerce has amassed arge number of spirit stones, but why are they all being reinvested? In these chaotic times, such investments might not yield returns," Yi Yan expressed his worry.


    "Then we will recall all our investments before the South descends into chaos," Zhongshan said suddenly, taking a deep breath.


    "Oh? What are your ns, Your Majesty?" Yi Yan''s eyebrows arched in curiosity, sensing something unusual in Zhongshan''s demeanor.


    "The era of chaos has begun, and wars are raging in all directions. If the South bes engulfed in conflict, our Great Zhou Dynasty will eventually suffer. Therefore..." Zhongshan''s eyes were resolute.


    "Therefore, what?" Yi Yan asked immediately.


    "Therefore, I n to swallow the twenty-four Southern Dynasties whole!" Zhongshan dered solemnly.


    Yi Yan was momentarily stunned, disbelief flickering in his eyes. Swallow the twenty-four dynasties? How could that be possible? Given the current state of their military, conquering three or five dynasties might be feasible, but swallowing all twenty-four seemed an impossible task. Even a great celestial dynasty couldn''t boast such ambition.


    In the past, even when the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty fought the surrounding five major dynasties, it took a very long time. Although their dynasty was strong, it was still far from the power of the Great Luo Celestial Dynasty.


    Swallow the twenty-four Southern Dynasties?


    Despite his incredulity, Yi Yan sensed that Zhongshan had a n.


    "Your Majesty, have you devised another strategy?" Yi Yan asked, testing the waters.


    "Indeed, the rapid establishment of Da Rong Chamber of Commerce''s shops in major cities across the South is the first step," Zhongshan said firmly.


    "Shops? One shop per city? What impact can that have? It won''t cause even the slightest ripple," Yi Yan said, frowning.


    Suddenly, Yi Yan seemed to realize something.


    "Your Majesty, are you nning anothermercial warfare strategy like the ''Heaven Copse n''?" Yi Yan''s eyes lit up.


    Commercial warfare was generally underestimated in times of war, often disregarded by the masses. However, over a century ago, the Emperor had used such a strategy to annihte a major dynasty without shedding a drop of blood. The ''Heaven Copse n'' had set countless records in a short time. Afterward, every dynasty feared its mention, never again underestimatingmercial warfare. Yet,mercial warfare was incrediblyplex and difficult to execute.


    Other than the Heaven Copse n, all othermercial skirmishes paled inparison, unable to hold a candle to the Emperor''s grand strategy.


    Regarding the Heaven Copse n, Yi Yan had studied it multiple times, each time filled with admiration. Could it be that the Emperor has conceived anothermercial warfare strategy?


    "You understand me well!" Zhongshan smiled.


    Yi Yan''s eyes brightened further upon receiving Zhongshan''s confirmation. Amercial warfare strategy? Yi Yan felt a surge of excitement. Last time, he was on the opposing side; this time, he would experience it firsthand.


    "This strategy is called the ''Grand Whale Swallowing n.'' It won''t seed overnight, but once it does, conquering the twenty-four Southern Dynasties will be as easy as reaching into a bag!" Zhongshan dered with utmost confidence.


    Conquering twenty-four dynasties effortlessly? Yi Yan''s expression turnedplex. If anyone else had said this, Yi Yan would have dismissed it as impossible. But since Zhongshan had spoken, Yi Yan couldn''t help but ponder its feasibility.


    "Among the legionmanders, your grasp of the global situation is the strongest. Zhong Zheng has gone to the underworld, and I can''t trust anyone else to manage the Da Rong Chamber of Commerce. Here are the detailed ns for the ''Grand Whale Swallowing n.'' Take a look," Zhongshan said, handing over a stack of papers filled with his handwriting.


    Yi Yan respectfully took the papers, the cover bearing the five characters ''Grand Whale Swallowing n.'' He immediately began to read, engrossed in its contents. Sometimes he would fall into deep thought, and other times he would furrow his brows.


    Watching Yi Yan delve into the ''Grand Whale Swallowing n,'' Zhongshan smiled slightly, sitting down to enjoy his tea while waiting.


    Gradually, Yi Yan''s face flushed slightly, his eyes filled with excitement.


    "Your Majesty, this n is akin to robbery!" Yi Yan eximed, taking a deep breath.


    "Robbery? Does robbery bring money this quickly?" Zhongshanughed.


    "No, robbery is not even a fraction as effective. Your Majesty, if this n seeds, the twenty-four dynasties will not need us to conquer them��they will surrender willingly!" Yi Yan said, unable to contain his excitement.


    "You believe it''s feasible?" Zhongshan asked with a smile.


    "Absolutely. This strategy is far more ruthless than the Heaven Copse n. The Heaven Copse n merely disrupted the economy of a single dynasty. This n will destabilize the entire Southern economy without anyone noticing. By the time they realize, they will be deeply entrenched in a quagmire, unable to extricate themselves. This is a bottomless abyss��once someone steps in, there''s no turning back!" Yi Yan marveled.


    "These are extraordinary times, requiring extraordinary measures. Once the South is unified, we will abolish the n and punish imitators as traitors. The harm this strategy can cause is immense," Zhongshan nodded deeply.


    "Should we implement this n in our Great Zhou Dynasty as well?" Yi Yan asked with a slight frown.


    "This strategy can disrupt markets, so it''s harmful to us too. However, to conquer the twenty-four dynasties, we will implement it selectively, ensuring it doesn''t expand uncontrobly," Zhongshan stated solemnly.


    "Yes!" Yi Yan nodded.


    "The Grand Whale Swallowing n is entrusted to you. The arrangements for the Da Rong Chamber of Commerce are also in your hands. Remain vignt at all times," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. I will handle thismercial warfare meticulously. The groundwork will take considerable time. Once I haveid the foundation, we can harvest the fruits of our efforts together!" Yi Yan promised earnestly.


    "Good."��


    The day after Zhongshan and Yi Yan''s secret discussion, a guest arrived at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    It was Princess Qingqing of the Great Li Celestial Dynasty, Nie Qingqing! She arrived riding a phoenix, an Emperor-level phoenix, traveling at the highest speed from the Great Li Celestial Dynasty.


    After the morning assembly, Zhongshan went to a grand hall where Nie Qingqing stood alone, waiting anxiously, her brows furrowed with worry.


    "Princess Qingqing, what brings you here?" Zhongshan asked as soon as he entered the hall.


    Nie Qingqing was lost in thought when Zhongshan''s voice interrupted her. She looked up, and upon seeing Zhongshan, her face lit up with a joy she couldn''t quite understand. Just seeing him brought an inexplicable happiness to her heart.


    Noticing Zhongshan''s direct gaze, Nie Qingqing realized her improper behavior. She blushed and quickly changed the topic, "Where is Ling''er?"


    "Ling''er is currently in seclusion," Zhongshan replied.


    "Oh."


    "Since you''vee all this way, Princess Qingqing, why not stay in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court for a while? When Ling''er finishes her seclusion, she can apany you on a tour around," Zhongshan suggested with a smile.


    Nie Qingqing frowned at the invitation. "No, I''m here on urgent business," she said, her expression serious.


    "Oh?"


    "The Emperor sent me," she continued, her brows furrowing deeper.


    "Nie Fancheng?" Zhongshan''s brows knitted together.


    "Yes, the Emperor asked me to invite you to the Lihuo Holy City," Nie Qingqing exined.


    "Invite me? What is this about?" Zhongshan grew serious.


    "The Emperor mentioned he has a bad premonitiontely and requested your presence," Nie Qingqing said, her eyes full of hope.


    "A bad premonition?" Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed. For Nie Fancheng to be so concerned, something significant must be happening. What could be going on in the Great Li Celestial Dynasty?


    "Did Nie Fancheng say anything else?" Zhongshan inquired.


    "No, the Emperor didn''t tell me anything more, just asked me to invite you," Nie Qingqing shook her head.


    "Has there been any unusual activity in the Great Li Celestial Dynasty? Anything out of the ordinary?" Zhongshan asked, his tone grave.


    "Nothing unusual, just the ongoing wars with the surrounding dynasties, especially in the north where battles are rampant," Nie Qingqing responded, shaking her head.


    Zhongshan lowered his head, deep in thought, pacing back and forth in the grand hall. A bad premonition from Nie Fancheng? Why invite me?


    As Zhongshan pondered, Nie Qingqing watched anxiously.


    After an hour, Nie Qingqing couldn''t hold back any longer.


    "Will you go?" she asked, her face full of expectation.


    Looking up, Zhongshan saw her delicate and hopeful expression, and his heart softened. He understood why Nie Fancheng had sent Nie Qingqing. She had shown him kindness before; without her, Ling''er would have died outside the Kaiyang Sect, and Zhongshan wouldn''t have been able to bring Ling''er back so easily. If someone else hade to invite him, he would have deliberated more, but with Nie Qingqing, how could he refuse?


    "Alright, let me make the necessary arrangements tomorrow, and I will go with you to the Great Li Celestial Dynasty," Zhongshan said, taking a deep breath.


    "Thank you," Nie Qingqing responded, her face breaking into a radiant smile.

 Chapter 674: The Power of Emperor Xuan Sha

    <h4>Chapter 674: The Power of Emperor Xuan Sha</h4>


    The next day, everything was arranged.


    Outside the Hall of Longevity, Zhongshan looked at Emperor Xuan Sha and said, "While I''m away, the safety of Lingxiao Heavenly Court depends on you."


    "Rest assured, Lingxiao Heavenly Court is not just your capital; it was once called Heavenly Wolf Ind," Emperor Xuan Sha nodded.


    "Good!" Zhongshan nodded in satisfaction.


    With Emperor Xuan Sha''s unmatched martial prowess and a group of capable ministers, there was no need to worry about the safety of Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Wang Ku, we''re leaving!" Zhongshan called to Wang Ku.


    "Yes!" Wang Ku nodded.


    Then, Zhongshan, Nie Qingqing, and Wang Ku stepped onto the back of the giant phoenix.


    With a spread of its wings, the phoenix soared into the sky, disappearing from sight in an instant, heading swiftly towards the Great Li Celestial Dynasty.


    As Zhongshan left, everyone returned to their posts, resuming their duties.


    On the fifth day after Zhongshan''s departure.


    "Master, we''re almost there. Lingxiao Heavenly Court is just ahead!" Ao Sihai said to Ao Lie beside him.


    Ao Lie, Ao Sihai, and an Earth Immortal hade from the East Sea Dragon Pce, hurrying here with hidden agendas, all aiming for the Imperial Seal.


    Before long, the three powerful beings stopped at a distance.


    "Lingxiao Heavenly Court?" Ao Sihai''s eyes showed a hint of madness.


    Ao Lie and the Earth Immortal exchanged nces, observing the scene before them.


    Above Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the light of virtue and fortune soared into the sky, illuminating the heavens as if it were a holy realm.


    "A neen-wed Fortune Golden Dragon. Is this an imperial dynasty?" The Earth Immortal was surprised.


    "Fortune? Virtue? A mere imperial dynasty already stores both fortune and virtue together?" Ao Lie''s eyes shed with a peculiar expression.


    "Master, can virtue and fortune be stored together? What''s the difference?" Ao Sihai asked.


    "I''m not entirely sure, but I''ve seen a top-tier imperial dynasty in the Grand Thousand World that also collected both," Ao Lie frowned.


    "There have been many historical instances of this. Aren''t virtue and fortune supposed to counteract each other?" Ao Sihai was surprised.


    "I don''t know either. Let''s not worry about that for now. Let''s retrieve the Imperial Seal first!" Ao Lie said sternly.


    The three of them unleashed their powerful auras, creating a formidable pressure that surged towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    In the Wolf God Hall, Emperor Xuan Sha was meditating. Suddenly, his eyes opened, and with a flicker, he disappeared from his spot.


    The oppressive auras of Ao Lie and the other two surged towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court like a heavenly force. Suddenly, a white-robed figure appeared before them out of nowhere. The fierce wind ceased, and their powerful auras were abruptly blocked.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha?" Ao Lie''s eyes turned cold.


    Ao Sihai looked at Emperor Xuan Sha, his eyes shing with a trace of fear. But seeing Ao Lie and the Earth Immortal beside him bolstered his courage.


    "Is he the one who forced you out of the Lesser Thousand World, Emperor Xuan Sha?" The Earth Immortal curiously eyed Emperor Xuan Sha.


    However, Emperor Xuan Sha ignored Ao Lie and the Earth Immortal, focusing instead on Ao Sihai.


    "Ao Sihai, wasn''t the lessonst time enough?" Emperor Xuan Sha said coldly.


    Ao Sihai''s eyes flickered with fear again at Emperor Xuan Sha''s words.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha, my master is back. Today is the day you die!" Ao Sihai mustered his courage to say.


    "Hahahahaha~~~~~~~~~~"


    Emperor Xuan Shaughed heartily.


    Ao Lie red at Emperor Xuan Sha, his eyes filled with venom.


    After a heartyugh, Emperor Xuan Sha''s face turned serious as he looked at Ao Lie. "Ao Lie, is this how you teach your disciples?" Emperor Xuan Sha sneered.


    "So what? Emperor Xuan Sha, it was thanks to your humiliation back then that I persevered in the Grand Thousand World, enduring hardships that ordinary people couldn''t bear. Every time I remembered your insult, I gritted my teeth and pushed through. The heavens did not forsake me, and I finally achieved the Earth Immortal stage. I''ve been waiting for you toe out, but now I don''t have to wait anymore. I can personallye back and avenge the humiliation of the past!" Ao Lie said coldly.


    "Humiliation? Those who humiliate others will always be humiliated. If you hadn''t provoked me back then, things wouldn''t have turned out that way. After thousands of years, you still haven''t learned to repent. A rotten piece of wood cannot be carved," Emperor Xuan Sha shook his head.


    "Rotten wood? Let''s see who the real rotten wood is!" Ao Lie unleashed his aura, clearly preparing for a fight.


    Emperor Xuan Sha looked at him coldly, then nced at Lingxiao Heavenly Court before saying, "Let''s go somewhere secluded."


    Emperor Xuan Sha flew towards the South Sea. Ao Lie, unable to swallow his anger, called the other two to follow him in pursuit of Emperor Xuan Sha.


    Two dayster, in a remote part of the South Sea.


    High above the sea, Emperor Xuan Sha looked down at the others.


    "Ao Sihai, I warned youst time not to provoke me again. If it weren''t for Qin Ying''s face, today would be your death day!" Emperor Xuan Sha said coldly.


    After speaking, Emperor Xuan Sha''s figure blurred and disappeared from the sea. He had clearly refrained from killing them, considering the Dragon n was a national beast of Great Qin. Killing a Dragon n supreme would mean aplete fallout with Great Qin, which would be detrimental to Great Zhou at this time. Therefore, Emperor Xuan Sha held back.


    Meanwhile, below, the sea was stained red. Three shattered green dragon bodies reverted to human form.


    Ao Sihai, Ao Lie, and the Earth Immortaly battered, their clothes in tatters, bodies bruised and bleeding profusely. Their faces were so swollen and ckened that they were unrecognizable.


    "Damn it, he''s terrifying, too monstrous! Is this the Lesser Thousand World? Ao Lie, what kind of Lesser Thousand World is this? Another freak? He fought us without even transforming into his wolf form, and just in human form, he beat us this badly. Is this the Lesser Thousand World?" The Earth Immortal''s swollen face showed a hint of despair.


    "Master, what level is Emperor Xuan Sha''s cultivation?" Ao Sihai also looked despondent.


    Having been thrashed by Emperor Xuan Sha twice now,st time ending up bruised and battered, this time was even worse,pletely unrecognizable. What kind of monster is this?


    Ao Lie remained silent, brooding.


    "Ao Lie, I can''t move anymore. It will take at least five days to recover partially. Also, if you ever get into another fight, don''t call me. This Lesser Thousand World is too terrifying, too dangerous!" The Earth Immortal said with fear in his eyes.


    "No, we must go to Lingxiao Heavenly Court!" Ao Lie shook his head.


    After Ao Lie spoke, the Earth Immortal fell silent.


    "Ao Lie, why are there so many strong people in this Lesser Thousand World? In other Lesser Thousand Worlds, not to mention the six of us back then, just the two of us could have swept through the world. But look at this ce. As soon as we entered the underworld, four of us died. Only Xuan Yuan is manageable. Look at that ''Heaven Family,'' they came out with a whole bunch. Nothing is going right! I used to think you said the yang realm was more dangerous because you were psychologically timid, but you didn''t describe it seriously enough. We''ve only been here for a few days, and look at us. If I had known how dangerous it was, I wouldn''t havee!" The Earth Immortalined.


    "Who was it that insisted oning with me in front of the master?" Ao Lie said sternly.


    "Didn''t you say we could just take it once we arrived? Who knew you ced the Imperial Seal in the hands of the strongest person in this Lesser Thousand World!" the Earth Immortal shouted.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha isn''t the strongest in the world," Ao Sihai murmured.


    "If he isn''t the strongest, who is?" The Earth Immortal''s eyes widened.


    "He definitely isn''t. The strongest was Gu Shentong, but unfortunately, he failed to create the world a century ago, just short of thest strike. As for the current world, there are many powerful beings; no one dares im to be the strongest! Among those with strengthparable to Emperor Xuan Sha, I know of at least two," Ao Sihai replied after some thought.


    The Earth Immortal fell silent.


    "Is one of them Xuan Yuan?" Ao Lie asked.


    "Uh, no. One is the God Crow Daoist from the Longevity Realm, and the other is the ''Ying'' Emperor Xuan Sha mentioned earlier," Ao Sihai added, naming two unfamiliar figures.


    The Earth Immortal was speechless.


    After Ao Sihai spoke, the three of them fell into a deep silence, not uttering a word for a long time.


    "How about we go back?" the Earth Immortal asked tentatively after a while.


    "Go back?" Ao Lie frowned.


    "What else can you do? With Emperor Xuan Sha guarding Lingxiao Heavenly Court, how do we get in? My dragon horn was broken by him. We can''t enter Lingxiao Heavenly Court or retrieve the Imperial Seal. Do you want to go and get yourself killed?" the Earth Immortal said.


    "Go back? Have you considered the consequences? Do you know the price our master paid for us to enter this Lesser Thousand World? And now, four of us have died, but more importantly, we didn''t retrieve the Imperial Seal. Our master will definitely execute us!" Ao Lie frowned.


    "Then what do we do?" the Earth Immortal asked dejectedly.


    Ao Lie took a deep breath, his eyes growing colder. After a moment of silence, he said, "Emperor Xuan Sha, this man must die to appease my anger. However, he seems to fear someone named Ying from the Great Qin."


    "No, he doesn''t fear him. He didn''t kill me because I''m the Dragon n''s supreme and he is the Wolf n''s supreme. The Dragon n and Wolf n are the national beasts of the Great Qin and Great Zhou respectively. If he kills me, it would mean conflict between the two dynasties. He doesn''t want to cause such a dispute now," Ao Sihai seemed to have figured it out.


    "Then let''s go ask Ying for help. Completing our master''s mission is paramount," Ao Lie said sternly.


    "Right, your disciple mentioned that Ying''s strength rivals Emperor Xuan Sha''s. As long as Ying can hold off Emperor Xuan Sha, we can enter Lingxiao Heavenly Court and retrieve what is ours!" the Earth Immortal said excitedly.


    "Hmm!" Ao Lie nodded.


    After their injuries healed somewhat, the three of them flew north at high speed, bypassing the Great Zhou Dynasty and heading straight for the Great Qin Celestial Dynasty.


    In the Great Qin Celestial Dynasty, Xianyang Holy Capital.


    In the court, Ying was presiding over the assembly. Ying sat high on the dragon throne, looking at the ministers discussing state affairs.


    At this moment, only one person stood in the center of the two rows.


    Chancellor Li Si respectfully reported to Ying, "Your Majesty, the situation in the northern Great Li Celestial Dynasty has suddenly changed, but it is not yet time for our dynasty to mobilize troops. We must wait a bit longer before Great Qin can send its forces."

 Chapter 675: Bai Qi鈥檚 Strike

    <h4>Chapter 675: Bai Qi��s Strike</h4>


    Chancellor Li Si respectfully addressed Ying, "Your Majesty, the situation in the northern Great Li Celestial Dynasty has suddenly changed, but it is not yet time for our dynasty to mobilize troops. We must wait a bit longer before Great Qin can send its forces."


    After Li Si finished speaking, he waited for Ying''s decision. Ying, seated on the Nine Dragon Throne, lightly tapped his fingers on the armrest, deep in thought. The hall was silent, as no one dared to speak during the emperor''s contemtion. The civil and military officials remained quiet.


    Meanwhile, outside the hall, another scene was unfolding.


    Ao Sihai, Ao Lie, and the Earth Immortal were being blocked by several guards.


    "During the assembly, no one is allowed to interrupt!" the guardmanded.


    "Is he just anyone? He is the supreme of the national beast of Great Qin, Ao Sihai. Can''t he meet Ying?" the Earth Immortal immediately retorted.


    The Earth Immortal was filled with frustration, having just arrived in Great Qin with Ao Sihai, only to be stopped.


    "Without notification, no one is allowed inside!" the guard replied firmly.


    "Then notify them!" the Earth Immortal demanded.


    "The Chancellor stated that today''s assembly is discussing top-level military affairs. Matters below this level cannot be reported or interrupted. Ao Supreme, you know the significance of top-level military affairs in Great Qin. Are you sure your matter meets this standard?" the guard responded respectfully but firmly.


    "Top-level military affairs?" Ao Sihai frowned.


    "What?" Ao Lie also frowned.


    "Master, let''s wait until their assembly is over," Ao Sihai said reluctantly.


    "Wait? Is our matter trivial? Besides, you are the supreme of the Dragon n, cooperating with Great Qin. Your status is no less than Ying''s! Are the dragons of this Lesser Thousand World really so cowardly that theyck the courage to meet with the emperor of their ally?" the Earth Immortal taunted.


    The Earth Immortal, still reeling from Emperor Xuan Sha''s confrontation, had be much more irritable.


    "Notify them!" Ao Lie alsomanded.


    "Yes!" Ao Sihai nodded helplessly.


    "Report to Ying!" Ao Sihai instructed.


    The guard gave the three a deep look before nodding and notifying the herald. The herald went inside to report.


    Inside the hall, Li Si continued to wait. The officials remained silent. Suddenly, an eunuch entered the hall.


    "Your Majesty, the supreme of the Dragon n requests an audience," the eunuch announced respectfully.


    The eunuch''s interruption made everyone frown, including Li Si, who red at the eunuch. The eunuch felt a chill and immediately knelt down.


    Ying, his thoughts interrupted, looked at the eunuch and took a deep breath. "Let them in."


    "Yes!" The eunuch quickly retreated.


    Although Ying wasn''t furious, his mood wasn''t good either. Soon, Ao Sihai, Ao Lie, and the Earth Immortal were led into the hall.


    As they entered, all the officials turned to look at the neers.


    The three visitors also observed the people in the hall. Seeing the gathered ministers, Ao Lie frowned, noticing that their cultivation levels were indistinct.


    There were only two types of people whose cultivation Ao Lie couldn''t discern: those above the level of a Celestial Immortal and those with special techniques to conceal their power.


    In a Lesser Thousand World, it was more likely thetter. This thought confirmed the Earth Immortal''s suspicion that this dynasty was indeed peculiar.


    "Ao Sihai!" Ao Sihai called out.


    There was no arrogance in Ao Sihai''s tone, but rather an acknowledgment of Ying''s dominance. Ao Lie looked up at Ying on the throne, feeling a strange sense of awe. This was a majesty and power that ordinary people could not exhibit, even Ao Lie himself. He had only seen such a presence in the ''master'' of the Grand Thousand World.


    As he looked at Ying, a hint of caution shed in Ao Lie''s eyes.


    Ying nced at the three of them before looking at Ao Sihai. "Ao Sihai, what brings you here?"


    "This is my master and his friend, both from the Grand Thousand World," Ao Sihai introduced.


    "Hmm," Ying nodded, his demeanor suggesting that he was not surprised by visitors from the Grand Thousand World.


    "We are here for the Dragon n''s Imperial Seal," Ao Sihai said cautiously.


    "Oh? The Imperial Seal?" Ying frowned slightly.


    "Yes, the one in Lingxiao Heavenly Court," Ao Sihai continued.


    "Li Si has been to Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The Imperial Seal is not there," Ying shook his head.


    "But..." Ao Sihai was still unconvinced.


    "No buts. If I say it is not there, then it is not there!" Ying''s tone left no room for argument.


    "Understood," Ao Sihai nodded, not daring to argue further.


    Seeing Ying''s firmness, Ao Lie held back his words, but the Earth Immortal couldn''t contain himself. Having been provoked by Emperor Xuan Sha earlier and now being told this path was also blocked, he shouted, "You say it''s not there, and we should just ept it?"


    The Earth Immortal''s defiance drew angry res from all the ministers in the hall.


    "What do you want?" Ying''s eyes shed with anger.


    "You hold off Emperor Xuan Sha, and we will search ourselves!" the Earth Immortal demanded.


    Ao Lie tried to caution the Earth Immortal by tugging his sleeve, but he wouldn''t stop.


    "Hold off Emperor Xuan Sha? On what grounds?" Ying''s lips curled into an inscrutable smile.


    "On what grounds? Because of our master! Unless you don''t want to ascend to immortality, you must do as I say. Otherwise, our master will..." The Earth Immortal spoke boastfully, as if his master had immense power.


    "Hmph!" Ying''s cold snort interrupted the Earth Immortal.


    The Earth Immortal realized his mistake but regained his confidence thinking of his master.


    "Will you do it or not?" the Earth Immortal pressed.


    At that moment, a white-robed general, with a fierce expression, stepped forward from the left, ring at the Earth Immortal.


    "What are you doing?" the Earth Immortal frowned.


    "Roaring in the court, disrespecting the emperor, and viting thews of Great Qin. ording to thews, you shall be executed!" the general shouted, his voice sending a shiver down the Earth Immortal''s spine.


    "You dare kill me? Do you know who my master is? Your national beast is the Dragon n. Do you want to face the entire Dragon n''s wrath? Even in the Grand Thousand World, the Dragon n will not spare you!" the Earth Immortal screamed.


    "Hmph!" The white-robed general snorted coldly, pulling out a pitch-ck saber.


    Instinctively, the Earth Immortal felt a sense of impending doom, a deathly threat bearing down on him.


    "These people are mad! They act without hesitation. This is insane! And that person... how is he so strong? This feeling of imminent death?" The Earth Immortal, without a second thought, turned and bolted out of the hall, shooting away into the distance.


    "Ahhh~~~!"


    A scream echoed from outside the hall.


    Inside, the white-robed general''s massive de aura extended outward. Ghostly figures of battlefield spirits surrounded the de, and the chilling killing intent swept towards Ao Lie and his disciple.


    The general retracted his de, and the ck de aura vanished instantly. He bowed respectfully to Ying and returned to his position.


    Ao Lie and Ao Sihai watched silently, their hairs standing on end. They felt a coldness seeping from their very cores. They knew what that scream meant: the Earth Immortal had been cleaved in two, in by a single strike. The de aura they had sensed wasn''t formed by mana but by pure, overwhelming killing intent.


    The general had effortlessly killed an Earth Immortal, even though thetter''s strength was suppressed in the Lesser Thousand World and had not transformed into his dragon form. Still, he possessed the tenth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm''s power. And he was cut down with one strike?


    This man was more ruthless than those from the Heaven n, stronger than Xuan Yuan. Was he just an ordinary court official?


    Ao Lie''s nose tingled with a sour sensation. After thousands of years, how had this Lesser Thousand World produced so many monsters? One strike? Just one strike to y an Earth Immortal?


    "Are you Ao Lie?" Ying looked at Ao Lie.


    Ao Lie''s arrogance had long dissipated, and he dared not be presumptuous. If a mere general was this terrifying, how powerful must the Great Qin Emperor be?


    "Yes," Ao Lie nodded, swallowing his pride.


    "Take a message to your ''master''," Ying said calmly.


    "Yes?"


    "Tell him the Dragon n''s secret realm is mine now. He should stop coveting it," Ying stated firmly.


    "I will," Ao Lie replied, taking a deep breath.


    At this moment, Ao Lie dared not be insolent.


    "Ao Sihai, do you have anything else?" Ying asked, looking at Ao Sihai.


    "No, nothing else," Ao Sihai shook his head quickly.


    Compared to Ao Lie, Ao Sihai was even more shocked. Looking at the white-robed general, he felt a mix of emotions.


    "Then you may leave," Ying said coolly.


    "Yes!" Ao Sihai responded immediately.


    Ao Lie and Ao Sihai slowly exited the hall. Since the Earth Immortal had been killed with a single strike, Ao Lie had been silent, not uttering another word.


    Once outside the hall, they flew away from Xianyang Holy Capital as quickly as possible.


    "Who was that white-robed general just now?" Ao Lie asked.


    "He was formerly known as Bai Ye. Now he''s called ''Bai Qi,''" Ao Sihai exined, feeling a shiver run down his spine.


    Ao Sihai knew who Bai Ye was. A hundred years ago, when he followed Ying, Bai Ye had just broken through to the Emperor Extreme Realm. How long had it been? To kill an Earth Immortal with a single strike? Terrifying!


    "Bai Qi?" Ao Lie muttered, silent for a moment.


    "Master, what do we do next? Do we still go after the Imperial Seal?" Ao Sihai asked, his eyebrows twitching.


    "No!" Ao Lie took a deep breath.


    "Then, Master, what will you do?" Ao Sihai frowned.


    "I will return to the Grand Thousand World immediately. Sigh, this Lesser Thousand World is no longer the one I remember. I am powerless here!" Ao Lie sighed deeply.


    "What about the Imperial Seal?"


    "Forget about the Imperial Seal as well! Pretend it never existed!" Ao Lie said solemnly.


    "Understood," Ao Sihai exhaled a long breath, agreeing with his master''s decision.

 Chapter 676: The Tragedy of Great Li

    <h4>Chapter 676: The Tragedy of Great Li</h4>


    Monthster, Zhong Shan, Wang Ku, Nie Qingqing, and the Phoenix of the Imperial Realm arrived within the borders of the Great Li Celestial Empire!


    Wherever the trio passed, endless battles raged. The northern battlefield was chaotic beyond measure. As they neared the border of Great Li, Zhong Shan sensed something was amiss. He noticed the army of Great Li was disordered, their arrangements in disarray. Disarray? That meant the suprememander''s orders were ineffective.


    A celestial empire with a disorganized army? It could only mean the suprememander was missing, not present in the military camp.


    The suprememander missing? That surely meant there was a major upheaval in the Holy Capital of Li Fire!


    "Faster!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Caw~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Phoenix let out a long cry, its form shing like a stream of light, shooting towards the direction of the Holy Capital of Li Fire.


    Five dayster, they arrived at the Holy Capital. But they all stopped outside, staring in disbelief at the scene before them.


    Was this the Holy Capital of Li Fire?


    Once, the Holy Capital was bathed in the golden glow of prosperity, countless floating inds dancing in the sky, a splendid scene of a flourishing era.


    But now, all the fortune had dissipated, the floating inds had copsed. The vast territoryy in ruins, with numerous buildings crumbled, and the ground littered with countless corpses. Even many Phoenix corpsesy strewn about.


    On the devastated ground, huge cracks appeared, the entirend shattered, with endless magma gushing forth, mes shooting into the sky.


    The enormous pce had fallen into a vast magma pit.


    The once grand Holy Capital of Li Fire had be a dead city, a heap of ruins, a field of magma, now a thing of the past.


    Above the endless magma, seven or eight Phoenixes, with most of their feathers gone, flew destely, letting out mournful cries.


    "Caw~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Phoenix''s sorrowful cry resonated in the destion!


    Nie Qingqing stared nkly at the scene, her whole body turning cold.


    "No, this isn''t the Holy Capital of Li Fire. It can''t be!" Nie Qingqing shook her head, refusing to believe.


    Zhong Shan grabbed her arm, calming her down.


    "Let''s check if Nie Fancheng is still around!" Zhong Shanforted.


    In truth, Zhong Shan knew all too well. The dissipation of fortune likely meant Nie Fancheng was in dire straits.


    The Phoenix underfoot shot towards the pce at high speed.


    At this moment, countless thoughts shed through Zhong Shan''s mind. Nie Fancheng? Was he still alive?


    How powerful was Nie Fancheng?


    Last time, even thebined attack of Daoist God Crow, Lu Gui Tian, and Wu Huan couldn''t harm Nie Fancheng. Although his clothes had a slight tear, it didn''t diminish Nie Fancheng''s formidable presence in Zhong Shan''s mind.


    Nie Fancheng was a peer of Gu Shentong, and before the assault on Elysium, he was the only Heaven-Realm expert recognized by Gu Shentong.


    Being acknowledged by Gu Shentong, Nie Fancheng''s strength was unquestionable. But had such a powerful figure been taken down in his own stronghold?


    The pce was engulfed in endless magma, everything gone.


    "Caw~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Phoenix under Zhong Shan let out a long cry, and seven or eight severely damaged Phoenixes surrounded them.


    The Phoenix under Zhong Shan''s feet, in the Imperial Realm, danced gracefully before transforming into a human form.


    "Wuluo, ask them, ask them what exactly happened?" Nie Qingqing quickly instructed the Phoenix who had turned into a human.


    "Yes!" Wuluo responded promptly.


    Seven or eight Phoenixes flew over, swiftly transforming into human forms, their bodies covered in wounds.


    "Phoenix King, you''re finally back!" one of the Phoenixes cried out.


    "What happened? Exin clearly!" Wuluo demanded with wide eyes.


    "The Supreme was captured! Quickly, think of a way to save the Supreme!" another Phoenix wailed.


    "The Supreme was captured? Exin everything from the beginning!" Wuluo ordered.


    "It was half a month ago. A group of powerful beings came while the Supreme was away. They killed the Emperor. When the Supreme arrived, he only managed to see the Emperor onest time before being captured by the remaining attackers," one Phoenix exined.


    "What kind of powerful beings? Who are they?" Zhong Shan immediately inquired.


    "There were seven of them in total. I only recognized five: Daoist God Crow, Lu Gui Tian, Turtle Shou, Wu Huan, and Prince Lietian. The other two were wielding the Absolute Immortal Sword and the Trap Immortal Sword��they are from the Realm of Longevity. They ughtered the Emperor of Great Li!" the Phoenix replied quickly.


    "Impossible! In the Holy Capital of Li Fire, they couldn''t have killed the Emperor. The Emperor could draw on the power of Great Li. No one could kill him," Nie Qingqing eximed.


    "But there was a traitor within the Great Li Celestial Empire," the Phoenix revealed.


    "A traitor? Who is the traitor?" Nie Qingqing demanded.


    "It was the Emperor''s close eunuch. He is from the Realm of Longevity. He infiltrated the Great Li Celestial Empire thousands of years ago!" the Phoenix said with hatred.


    The eunuch? Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, immediately thinking of the figure. During thest Grand Alchemy Conference, Nie Fancheng had brought the eunuch along and was subsequently ambushed. Nie Fancheng had always trusted him. Now, thinking back, it seemed unusual. Why did Nie Fancheng fall into the trap of the Realm of Longevity so perfectly? It was because of this eunuch?


    Eight peerless experts besieging Nie Fancheng in the Holy Capital of Li Fire?


    "How did the battle go?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "With the Supreme absent, and the Earth Master also not present, there was only the Emperor and another hidden Heaven-Realm expert from Great Li. That Heaven-Realm expert was ambushed by the eunuch and killed shortly after. The Emperor faced eight Heaven-Realm experts alone, but there were too many of them. They were too powerful. Even with the Mountains and Rivers Society Seal, the Emperor couldn''t prevail!" the Phoenix recounted sorrowfully.


    "Is Nie Fancheng truly dead?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The Emperor killed the eunuch and two Heaven-Realm experts from the Realm of Longevity wielding the Immortal Swords. He heavily injured Lu Gui Tian. But Daoist God Crow was too strong. The Emperor couldn''t match him. In a desperate move, he self-destructed the Mountains and Rivers Society Seal, gravely injuring Daoist God Crow and even damaging his Immortal-ying Gourd! When the Supreme arrived, the Emperor had already turned to ashes," the Phoenix said mournfully.


    Nie Fancheng, having in three Heaven-Realm experts and heavily injured Lu Gui Tian and Daoist God Crow?


    "What happened to the Supreme?" Wuluo immediately asked.


    "The Supreme intended to avenge the Emperor but was gravely injured by the remaining attackers. Lu Gui Tian captured him and took him away! We were all severely injured and unable to move at that time. If we hadn''t been immobilized, we might have been ughtered too," the Phoenix exined.


    "Which direction did they go?" Wuluo pursued.


    "Daoist God Crow, gravely injured, left alone in one direction. Prince Lietian headed towards Phoenix Ind! Lu Gui Tian, Wu Huan, and Turtle Shou, along with the captured Supreme, went southwest! We were all lying on the ground, our bones shattered, unable to move. If not for that, we might have been killed too!"


    "What about the other officials?" Wuluo asked immediately.


    "With that eunuch''s inside help, no matter how many subordinates there were, it would have been useless," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    At this moment, Nie Qingqing''s expression was vacant. The sudden blow was too much for her to bear. The front lines of the Great Li Celestial Empire were still engaged in battle, yet the capital had already turned to ruins?


    The Emperor was dead? Nie Qingqing suddenly felt as if she had lost the entire world. In an instant, it was as if the sky had fallen, as if the world had ended.


    Tears flowed uncontrobly from her eyes. Her whole body weakened, and she copsed to the ground.


    "Your Highness, what should we do?" the Phoenix asked Wuluo.


    "Emperor Zhong, please save the Supreme!" Wuluo suddenly knelt before Zhong Shan.


    Though Wuluo couldn''t discern anything extraordinary about Zhong Shan, she knew he must be an exceptional person. Otherwise, why would both the Emperor and the Supreme have summoned him? Now, with the Supreme captured, the Phoenix n would be doomed if they couldn''t rescue him. But who could they turn to for help in such dire times? Zhong Shan was their only hope.


    The sight of the Phoenixes bowing awakened the dazed Nie Qingqing. Seeing them, she bit her lip, forcibly suppressing her overwhelming sorrow.


    "Zhong Shan, can you save the Supreme?" Nie Qingqing looked at Zhong Shan with hope.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan asked solemnly, "Why did they capture Wu Jiutian?"


    "We don''t know, we have no idea!" the Phoenixes responded quickly.


    "How long ago did they leave?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Ten days ago, they left ten days ago!" the Phoenixes answered hopefully.


    "Your Majesty, can we catch up to them?" Wang Ku asked calmly.


    "We should be able to. I don''t know how powerful Nie Fancheng was exactly, but from his relentless ughter of the Realm of Longevity''s people, it''s clear he hated them deeply. He even killed two Heaven-Realm experts wielding the Absolute Immortal Sword and the Trap Immortal Sword. Daoist God Crow must also be seriously injured. However, his suspicious nature led him to leave alone. As for the remaining ones, Lu Gui Tian, Wu Huan, and Turtle Shou, they were all heavily injured!" Zhong Shan analyzed.


    "Everyone is heavily injured?" Wang Ku frowned.


    "Prince Lietian went to Phoenix Ind alone, indicating he''s an exception. But between Wu Huan and Turtle Shou, at least one must be seriously injured!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "They''re heavily injured and carrying Wu Jiutian. They won''t be moving fast," Wang Ku understood.


    "Exactly, and I know where they''re likely heading!" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Please, Emperor Zhong, save the Supreme!" Wuluo kowtowed to Zhong Shan.


    "Get up! Transform into your true form and carry us!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!"


    Wuluo transformed back into her Phoenix form and swiftly carried Zhong Shan, Wang Ku, and Nie Qingqing in pursuit.


    Nie Qingqing was in a daze, while Zhong Shan was deep in thought about the possible forting events, unable to offerfort. He merely held Nie Qingqing''s hand tightly as a gesture of reassurance.


    "Your Majesty, why would the Realm of Longevity besiege the Great Li Celestial Empire, forsaking all this fortune?" Wang Ku asked.


    "The Realm of Longevity and the Taishui Celestial Empire have always been in collusion. The fall of the Great Li Celestial Empire benefits the Taishui Celestial Empire. As for the fortune? Once the other imperial dynasties annex the Great Li''snds, they can seize it back from them!" Zhong Shan answered without needing to think.

 Chapter 677: Is This a Trap?

    <h4>Chapter 677: Is This a Trap?</h4>


    During the flight, with Zhong Shan''sforting presence, Nie Qingqing''s emotions gradually stabilized. ncing at the hand held by Zhong Shan, her face reddened. She tried to pull her hand back but couldn''t, making her blush even more as she looked at Zhong Shan''s face.


    Zhong Shan, however, was deep in thought. His greatest strength was his love for pondering over things. Even if something seemed clear to others, Zhong Shan would mull it over multiple times.


    He sensed something unusual from the moment Nie Qingqing went to Lingxiao Heavenly Court. This feeling had only grown stronger, culminating in the copse of the Great Li Celestial Empire and the death of Nie Fancheng. Zhong Shan was now certain of his suspicion.


    This was a trap! It wasn''t as simple as it appeared. But what kind of trap was it?


    Zhong Shan furrowed his brows in thought, but the clues he had were limited. It was too simplistic to deduce the nature of the trap just from what the Phoenixes had said. Moreover, it seemed like he had been pulled into this trap too. Everything felt eerie!


    Unable to figure it out for now, Zhong Shan knew he needed to question the key figures. The Phoenixes'' words were not to be taken to heart, and most of the key figures were adversaries. Only by questioning Wu Jiutian, the Supreme of the Phoenix n, could he uncover more.


    Having rified what needed to be done next, Zhong Shan exhaled deeply.


    At this moment, he felt a tugging at his hand. Looking down, he saw that he was still holding Nie Qingqing''s hand forfort. Now that she was gradually recovering, Zhong Shan released her hand, noticing her slightly reddened face.


    "Feeling better?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Mm!" Nie Qingqing nodded.


    But as she thought about the Holy Capital of Li Fire, her face darkened again.


    "Everything will be sorted once we rescue Wu Jiutian," Zhong Shan reassured.


    "Mm."


    Twenty dayster, the group stopped in front of an endless forest. Countless crows flew in the sky, not just ordinary crows but also fire crows and ice crows, making it seem like a sacred ground for crows.


    "This ce is called Wuchao, the former headquarters of the crow n. After the crows became the national beast of the Taishui Celestial Empire, the powerful crows migrated out, but this ce hasn''t been abandoned," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Your Majesty, are you saying Wu Huan, Turtle Shou, and Lu Gui Tian might stop here to heal their injuries?" Wang Ku asked.


    "Mm. Being heavily injured, they need a ce to recuperate. Traveling while injured would be too risky. This ce has the best terrain. With the wisdom of Turtle Shou, Wu Huan, and Lu Gui Tian, they would think of this ce," Zhong Shan said with a cold smile.


    From Zhong Shan''s tone, Wang Ku could sense his disdain for the wisdom of the three Heaven-Realm experts, but Wang Ku expressed no opinion.


    "Wuluo, stay here and protect Nie Qingqing. Wang Ku, we''re going in!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Phoenix King Wuluo responded immediately.


    "Be careful!" Nie Qingqing said with concern.


    "Mm. Don''t worry!" Zhong Shan nodded solemnly.


    Then, Zhong Shan and Wang Ku''s forms flickered as they moved into the depths of Wuchao.


    Deep in Wuchao, there was a massive volcano. Around the volcano, countless crows flew, but none flew higher than the volcano itself. Surrounding the volcano were numerous buildings. Some beast crows, in human form, looked at the volcano with reverence in their eyes.


    Inside the volcano''s crater, endless magma churned. Floating on the magma was a small ind, drifting without melting, adding to the eerie atmosphere.


    On the small ind, there was a grand pce surrounded by several smaller buildings. The que above the grand pce bore threerge characters: "Wu Huang Pce."


    Inside the Wu Huang Pce sat four individuals. Wu Huan, Turtle Shou, and Lu Gui Tian were sitting in three directions, meditating with their eyes closed. They all bore varying degrees of injuries, focused on healing themselves.


    In the center of the trio was Wu Jiutian. He was trapped in arge golden birdcage emitting a faint golden light that seemed to solidify the space inside, rendering Wu Jiutian immobile. His long hair was disheveled, and his face bore several unhealed wounds. Sitting cross-legged, he appeared to be meditating, resisting the cage''s confinement. Suddenly, a purple character "Yao" appeared on his forehead.


    Wu Jiutian''s face contorted in pain as he gritted his teeth, trying to expel the "Yao" character from his forehead. However, it seemed deeply rooted, refusing to be forced out despite his efforts. Over and over, Wu Jiutian struggled against the character.


    At this moment, Wu Huan, facing Wu Jiutian, opened his eyes and scrutinized him from head to toe. His eyes briefly shed with a sinister gleam, but he quickly masked it with a serious expression, focusing on the "Yao" character on Wu Jiutian''s forehead.


    "Lu Gui Tian, what''s the deal with that prince of yours, Prince Lietian?" Wu Huan asked, frowning.


    Not far away, Lu Gui Tian slowly opened his eyes, also frowning. "What do you think?"


    "I think Prince Lietian is quite a monster! He''s been hiding his true strength all along. If Daoist God Crow hadn''t brought him along, I wouldn''t have known he was so formidable. Among all of us, he''s the only one unscathed. Even Daoist God Crow was heavily injured, yet he''s fine?" Wu Huan said, clearly puzzled.


    At this point, Turtle Shou also opened his eyes and spoke slowly, "He remained uninjured because Nie Fancheng''s final counterattack targeted only Daoist God Crow and not the others."


    "But we''re all injured, and he''s perfectly fine? Moreover, he yed a major role in capturing Wu Jiutian and even ced some sort of curse on him! Look at Wu Jiutian now,pletely immobilized!" Wu Huan remarked, frowning.


    "Wu Huan, I advise you not to have any designs on Wu Jiutian," Turtle Shou warned, ncing at Wu Huan.


    Ignoring the warning, Wu Huan looked at Wu Jiutian, a lecherous smile appearing on his face. "Prince Lietian sure knows how to enjoy himself, capturing the Phoenix Supreme as a pet? Too bad I can''t have that kind of fun!"


    "Lietian is not as superficial as you," Lu Gui Tian shook his head.


    "Is that so? Then why did he imprison Wu Jiutian?" Wu Huan frowned.


    "I believe he went to Phoenix Ind to subdue the entire ind," Turtle Shou spected.


    "Impossible. The Phoenixes are a proud race. They obey no one but their Supreme," Lu Gui Tian shook his head again.


    "But here we are, with their Supreme captured. If the Phoenix Supreme is enved, the rest will fall in line," Wu Huan said with a wicked smile.


    "However, I have a feeling that things have been too smooth. There''s an eerie sense about all of this," Lu Gui Tian said, frowning.


    "Smooth? You call this smooth?" Turtle Shou raised an eyebrow.


    "Nie Fancheng shouldn''t have died so easily," Lu Gui Tian mused.


    "But he did die, his body and soulpletely annihted. You saw it with your own eyes, turning to ashes and scattering into the sky! And it resulted in us being heavily injured, even Daoist God Crow wasn''t spared," Turtle Shou said solemnly.


    "Daoist God Crow heavily injured? Perhaps," Lu Gui Tian sighed softly.


    While the three were discussing the events of that day, their pupils suddenly contracted simultaneously as they looked up at the sky.


    The sky was rapidly covered with dark clouds, casting an ominous shadow over the entire Wuchao region. Ghostly figures floated within the ck clouds, creating an eerie and foreboding atmosphere.


    "Wang Ku?" Turtle Shou raised an eyebrow in recognition.


    The three figures immediately shot out of the volcanic crater.


    "Caw~~ Caw~~ Caw~~ Caw~~ Caw~~!"


    Countless crows screeched and flew into a frenzy, angrily charging at two figures high in the sky.


    The two figures were Zhong Shan and Wang Ku. Zhong Shan did not make a move, allowing Wang Ku to act. As Wang Ku spread his "Heaven" domain, the world turned dark, and endless yin energy surged from the ground.


    "Crack, crack, crack, crack~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Suddenly, the sound of earth being overturned echoed across thend. To the astonishment of all the crows, enormous skeletons quickly emerged from beneath the soil.


    Countless crow skeletons and numerous humanoid skeletons surfaced, exuding an eerie yin energy from their emergence points, creating a sinister scene.


    "Caw~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The countless crows were seeing this for the first time, crying out in disbelief.


    The bones emerging from the ground belonged to the ancestors of the crow n, buried here long ago, now summoned by Wang Ku.


    As the Skeleton King, Wang Ku''s control over skeletons far surpassed even that of Master Shi! With a single move, endless skeletons emerged from the soil.


    The skeletal crows spread their wings and floated eerily into the air.


    Seeing this, the living crows'' feathers stood on end in shock and horror.


    "Expel them!" Zhong Shanmanded calmly.


    "Yes!" Wang Ku nodded.


    Countless skeletal crows rushed towards the living crows.


    "Caw~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A fire crowunched a st of mes, shattering a skeletal crow instantly. However, more skeletal crows swarmed in.


    Although there were many living crows, the number of skeletal crows buried beneath was even greater. With generations of burials in Wuchao, the underground was filled with endless skeletal crows. As they continuously emerged, they reced the destroyed ones, quickly equaling the number of living crows.


    The entire area was shrouded in an aura of death.


    At this moment, Turtle Shou, Lu Gui Tian, and Wu Huan emerged, standing high in the sky, directly facing Wang Ku and Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, you''ve got some nerve!" Lu Gui Tian said coldly.


    "I''ve never hidden anything. It''s only now that you realize it," Zhong Shan replied with a cold smile as he looked at Lu Gui Tian.


    Around them, the battle between the living crows and skeletal crows raged on, but Zhong Shan, Wang Ku, Turtle Shou, Wu Huan, and Lu Gui Tian paid it no mind, their attention focused solely on each other with serious expressions.

 Chapter 678: The Furious Eight-Tailed Fox

    <h4>Chapter 678: The Furious Eight-Tailed Fox</h4>


    The chaotic battlefield was filled with the mor of crows and bone crows shing. Explosions echoed around, mes soared, and a chilling cold permeated the air. Amidst the chaos, only Zhong Shan, Wang Ku, Gui Shou, Wu Huan, and Lu Guatian stood undisturbed by the crows.


    "Retreat!" Wu Huan''s voice, though not loud, carried to every crow''s ear.


    "Caw...caw...caw..." The crows let out a series of cries, pped their wings, and flew outwards. The bone crows did not pursue them but insteadnded gently on the ground, turning back into dust and soil.


    The surroundings suddenly became much quieter.


    "Rumble..." A sudden explosion echoed in the sky. A bolt of lightning struck down from the heavens in the distance. More and more lightning bolts began to fall from the sky, countless in number, descending rapidly like rain. In an instant, they formed a massive dome around everyone present.


    The scene was incredibly spectacr!


    Everyone''s pupils contracted as they looked towards Zhong Shan, recognizing that he had triggered the "Heavenly Thunder Transformation."


    Heavenly Thunder Transformation created countless bolts of lightning, sealing the area into a closed space. While these lightning bolts posed no threat to the three Heavenly Extreme Realm experts, they effectively blocked any external view. The raging lightning could even destroy spiritual senses attempting to prate the barrier.


    Seeing this, Gui Shou and Wu Huan exchanged a peculiar look. What was Zhong Shan nning?


    "Do you think you two can keep us here?" Lu Guatian said with a strange expression.


    Though Zhong Shan''s cultivation level was unclear, it was evident that he was only at the Imperial Extreme Realm. And with that level of cultivation, he thought he could hold back three Heavenly Extreme Realm experts? Ridiculous!


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan smiled faintly, "All three of you are severely injured, correct?"


    "So what?" Lu Guatian sneered.


    "Hand over Wu Jiutian, and I will let you leave safely," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Let us leave? Hahaha..." Wu Huanughed incredulously, as if he had heard the funniest joke in the world. "Do you think you can stop us? I could crush you with a single finger!"


    "Wu Jiutian is at the mouth of the volcano. If you have the ability,e and take her," Gui Shou sneered.


    Lu Guatian frowned. He had studied Zhong Shan and knew him to be a man of deep cunning, never doing anything he wasn''t confident about. Last time, even with three Heavenly Extreme Realm experts, the Absolute Immortal Sword, an immortal artifact ice mountain, and the personal intervention of the Divine Crow Daojun, Zhong Shan had still managed to escape unscathed. This time, with such bravado, did he have another trick up his sleeve?


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan sneered, knowing that further words would be futile.


    Suddenly, Gui Shou, Wu Huan, and Lu Guatian''s pupils shrank, their eyes shing with a strange light.


    Behind Zhong Shan, a massive tail emerged, a huge, bright red fox tail shooting up into the sky, causing the surrounding space to tremble.


    "A fox?" Gui Shou eximed in surprise.


    "Boom!" Seven more enormous tails shot into the sky, a total of eight tails swaying in the air, making the space quiver. The sight was overwhelmingly powerful.


    An eight-tailed fox?


    As the three were puzzling over the strange phenomenon, the eight tails suddenly detached from Zhong Shan, floating above his head.


    "Eh?" The three of them were stunned.


    "What kind of monster is this?" Wu Huan asked incredulously, his eyes widening.


    "Eeeeeeyaaaaah!" The enormous eight-tailed creature was none other than Zhong Shan''s primordial spirit, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    With an adorable yet piercing cry, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail opened its enormous mouth towards the three Heavenly Extreme Realm experts. The mouth was sorge it seemed capable of transforming, turning into a gaping maw that swiftly approached the trio.


    Seeing the massive mouth closing in, the three were momentarily frozen in shock. They were just about to draw their treasures tobat the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail when a sudden premonition of danger caused their hairs to stand on end. In a sh, they disappeared from the front of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    Though powerful, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was not as fast as the Heavenly Extreme Realm experts. Missing its initial target, it did not hesitate and continued to descend.


    The three reappeared high in the air, looking at the massive creature with lingering fear. What was this thing? What was it trying to do?


    Their questions were soon answered. As they watched the actions of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, their faces contorted in shock.


    The enormous mouth of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail suddenly grew evenrger. With a single bite, it swallowed the entire volcano below.


    The three Heavenly Extreme Realm experts were no longer merely grimacing; they were now drenched in cold sweat. What kind of creature was this? It had swallowed a whole mountain in one bite?


    Lu Guatian was the first to react. Drawing his long sword, he unleashed a terrifying sword sh at one of the sky-reaching tails of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    "Boom!" The red tail was struck by the sword but was not severed. Instead, it stretched taut like rubber.


    "Boing!" The tail snapped back, sending Lu Guatian''s sword flying back at him, causing him to stagger.


    "Chomp!" The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail finallypleted its bite.


    "Crunch!" The once towering volcano was reduced to a massive fiery crater.


    "Boom!" Countless streams of magma shot up into the sky.


    Gui Shou and Wu Huan stood there, dumbfounded. What kind of monster was this? What had they just witnessed? Where had Zhong Shan found such a creature? It had eaten a whole mountain? By the heavens, it had eaten a mountain!


    "Wu Jiutian is in its mouth, kill it!" Lu Guatian shouted.


    His cry jolted Gui Shou and Wu Huan from their stupor. They suddenly remembered that Wu Jiutian was in the volcano, which had just been swallowed by the creature.


    "Damn it!" Wu Huan roared, and a huge bell materialized above his head��the Soul-Falling Bell, his ninth-grade treasure.


    With the battle reaching its climax, the true power of each warrior would soon be revealed.


    "Dong!" The bell''s toll reverberated, sending out a massive spatial ripple, the powerful sonic attack directly hitting the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. The immense impact made the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail stagger.


    It quickly turned its head, and its adorable little eyes narrowed, emitting a cold light. Despite its cute appearance, a fierce expression added an unusual charm. During this brief moment, the enormous volcano had already been digested by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    "Poof!" The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail spat out a red figure��it was Wu Jiutian. Not only had it digested the volcano, but it had also dissolved the golden birdcage imprisoning Wu Jiutian.


    "Eeyah, eeyah!" The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail let out two adorable yet fierce cries, rushing toward Wu Huan.


    Wu Jiutian was free? Wu Jiutian was rescued?


    In an instant, Lu Guatian and the others sensed something was wrong.


    "Hahaha, Lu Guatian, you didn''t expect this, did you?" Wu Jiutian suddenlyughed wildly.


    Lu Guatian''s face darkened immediately, and Gui Shou''s expression turned grim as well.


    "Zhong Shan, thank you. I will personally deal with Lu Guatian!" Wu Jiutian shouted.


    Suddenly, Wu Jiutian staggered, almost falling. Her face twisted in pain as the character "��" reappeared on her forehead.


    "Damn it!" Wu Jiutian cursed herself.


    "Deal with me? Today is your death day. You two, hold off that monster. I''ll personally take care of Wu Jiutian. Even if we can''t capture her, she must not live!" Lu Guatian shouted, charging at Wu Jiutian with his longsword.


    "Keep an eye on Gui Shou," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "Yes!" Wang Ku responded immediately, shooting towards Gui Shou.


    As Wang Ku approached, Gui Shou conjured a massive shield in front of him, towering like a mountain, pressing down on Wang Ku.


    Wang Ku extended his skeletal w, and from it, a giant bronze throne emerged, growingrger until it stood a thousand feet tall. The throne exuded an aura of utmost darkness and evil, freezing the volcano below it as it collided with Gui Shou''s shield.


    "Boom!" A tremendous explosion ensued as the shield and the bronze throne shed, shaking the space around them. The powerful spatial disturbance caused everything to quiver, and at the point of impact, a small ck hole appeared.


    Realizing the danger, Gui Shou swiftly retreated, with Wang Ku in close pursuit.


    Meanwhile, Wu Jiutian, having suppressed her headache, charged at Lu Guatian, who believed he could kill her, and rushed to meet her.


    The final battleground was naturally the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, after revealing its adorable yet fierce expression, charged straight at Wu Huan. Its eight massive tails created waves of spatial distortion. Its enormous mouth lunged at Wu Huan.


    Wu Huan prepared for battle, his eyes cold as he rapidly struck the massive Soul-Falling Bell.


    "Dong, dong, dong!" The powerful sonic waves collided with the frequency of the eight tails, causing increasing spatial ripples around them.


    "Eeyah, eeyah, eeyah!" The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail opened its massive mouth, biting toward Wu Huan.

 Chapter 679: Tragedy in the Face of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail

    <h4>Chapter 679: Tragedy in the Face of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail</h4>


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail danced through the sky with its eight colossal tails, causing the entire heavens to shake. The tails were eerie, moving slowly but with the power to manipte thews of the universe, creating endless tremors with each sway.


    Wu Huan''s Soul-Falling Bell continued to ring, sending powerful spatial ripples to counter the tremors caused by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    "Eeyah, eeyah!" The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, enraged, charged at Wu Huan, its massive mouth erging to an unimaginable size, aimed directly at him.


    Facing the gaping maw, Wu Huan felt a shiver of dread pierce his heart. Though the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail''s head was small, its mouth could stretch like rubber, expanding incredibly wide. Inside that mouth was a void that devoured everything, even light, leaving only a pitch-ck abyss.


    Dread surged again. Without hesitation, Wu Huan thrust his palm forward, creating a massive energy hand that struck fiercely at the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    "Chomp!" The powerful energy attack was swallowed in one gulp.


    Wu Huan''s hair stood on end in terror. What kind of monster was this?


    He dared not make contact with it, quickly retreating from the range of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail''s mouth. The terrifying creature''s gaping maw seemed capable of devouring anything. Was it a legendary Taotie, capable of consuming everything?


    Luckily, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was slower than Wu Huan. Otherwise, Wu Huan would have met a grim fate. Escaping the jaws with a cold sweat, he looked back at the creature with lingering fear.


    Having missed Wu Huan, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail redirected its enormous mouth toward the Soul-Falling Bell.


    Seeing this, Wu Huan''s face twisted in rage. "Heaven''s retribution can be postponed, but self-inflicted sin cannot be survived!"


    Wu Huan tightened his grip and pointed at the Soul-Falling Bell. The bell''s ringing ceased. His eyes gleamed coldly, preparing to strike when suddenly:


    "Boom!" A distant p of thunder echoed, not like Zhong Shan''s Heavenly Thunder Transformation, but as if from the heavens themselves. An overwhelming force descended upon them, causing everyone to pause.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail halted. Zhong Shan looked up, as did Wu Huan, Gui Shou in the distance, and Wang Ku.


    In the distant sky, red clouds roiled, thunder rumbled, and a divine wrath seemed to descend upon them.


    "You''re...you''re undergoing a tribtion at this moment?" Lu Guatian shouted in shock.


    Wu Jiutian undergoing a tribtion? Everyone turned to look at Wu Jiutian, who was engulfed in mes. The "��" character on her forehead grew clearer as veins bulged on her temples, trying to expel the divine mark. Unable to do so, she went mad, using herself as a catalyst to summon the heavenly wrath and prepare for her tribtion.


    "Where do you think you''re going? Today, either you die or I perish!" Wu Jiutian shouted maniacally.


    As Lu Guatian turned to flee, Wu Jiutian blocked his path.


    "Madwoman, madwoman!" Lu Guatian roared.


    "Madwoman? I''m undergoing a tribtion, and you will join me in it! Hahaha!" Wu Jiutianughed wildly.


    Endless mes erupted from her body, shooting into the sky and forming a gigantic ming phoenix. The terrifying ze sealed Lu Guatian''s escape route.


    Wu Jiutian and Lu Guatian were locked in a deadly struggle!


    Wu Jiutian, restricted by the divine mark of the "��" character, and Lu Guatian, gravely injured, both faced the heavenly tribtion in a weakened state. The ultimate oue of this struggle was uncertain.


    As Lu Guatian fled, Wu Jiutian pursued him relentlessly, with the heavenly wrath following closely. Fleeing left them with no energy to resist the tribtion, yet staying offered them a fighting chance. Within moments, they had distanced themselves from Zhong Shan.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan quickly acted. The enormous Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail mped down on the body of the Soul-Falling Bell with its gaping mouth.


    Wu Huan realized the danger and sneered with a hint of malice. "Most Powerful Bell!"


    With a shout, the Soul-Falling Bell shone with a golden light, emitting a sword-like brilliance that pierced the surroundings, shaking the space with powerful ripples. The intense golden light even made the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail shudder.


    "Dong!" The Soul-Falling Bell rang again with a thunderous sound. The vibrations,den with high-frequency oscitions, attached to the golden light. The light began to tremble at high frequency, leaving ck lines in its wake��these were not ordinary lines, but spatial fissures, caused by the intense impact.


    This ability to tear space was a hallmark of high-level Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivators, and the sheer density of the golden light made its destruction immense.


    Seeing the disy of the Soul-Falling Bell, Wu Huan smirked coldly, thinking that even a monster that could devour everything would be pierced like a sieve by the onught.


    However, Wu Huan''s smile soon froze.


    "Chomp!" Despite the golden light''s onught, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail continued its attack. Its immense mouth mped down, seemingly unaffected by the golden light.


    Three thousand feet��the Soul-Falling Bell had expanded to such a size, radiating countless beams of golden light. It was an immense, powerful artifact. Yet, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail greedily bit down, devouring most of the bell. In just another moment, it would have consumed it entirely. The infinite golden light seemed incapable of harming the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    Wu Huan was filled with terror, his body trembling uncontrobly. "Rise!" he shouted in fear, trying to pull the Soul-Falling Bell out of the creature''s mouth.


    "Crunch!" A muffled sound was heard as the Soul-Falling Bell flew out, but it was no longer the mighty artifact. It looked more like a broken bowl, having been bitten through and enjoyed by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    "Spurt!" Wu Huan spat out blood, either from the damage to the Soul-Falling Bell affecting his spirit or from sheer anger. He looked up with a pale face, filled with despair.


    The Soul-Falling Bell had been hispanion for thousands of years, and now, it was gone in an instant, devoured by this monster. Devoured?


    Never had Wu Huan imagined such an end for his treasured bell. He had considered it being broken by swords, shattered by des, or smashed by hammers, but never eaten.


    The remaining half of the Soul-Falling Bell, still flying, was not spared either. A massive tail of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail swung down, sending the half bell crashing back into its mouth.


    "Chomp!" The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail chewed contentedly, its eyes narrowing in pleasure, thoroughly enjoying the meal.


    Wu Huan watched in horror as the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail savored the remains of the Soul-Falling Bell. His heart was filled with despair and disbelief. "What kind of monster is this? My Soul-Falling Bell..."


    "Eeyah, eeyah!" After finishing its meal, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail shook with excitement. Then, it turned its head, and its big, gleaming ck eyes fixated on Wu Huan.


    Those expectant eyes sent a shiver down Wu Huan''s spine. He turned to flee.


    "Celestial sh! Five Hundred Waves!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    The mighty de, Nightmare, locked onto Wu Huan and shed down with immense force. The de unleashed vast waves of spatial power, hurtling toward Wu Huan. This was Zhong Shan''s utmost effort, nearly reaching the full power of a mid-level Heavenly Extreme Realm expert.


    Yet, Wu Huan was still a Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivator. Even heavily injured, he could withstand this powerful strike.


    With a swift motion, Wu Huan donned a pair of ck gloves. As the colossal de descended upon him, his eyes turned cold. He struck out with his palm, meeting the de head-on.


    "Boom!" Despite his injuries, Wu Huan managed to dissipate the power of the Celestial sh, though the force pushed him back a hundred feet. He looked at Zhong Shan in shock.


    "Is this really an Imperial Extreme Realm cultivator? How could he unleash such a powerful strike?"


    Wu Huan stared at Zhong Shan in disbelief. This youth was too formidable. If he reached the Heavenly Extreme Realm, who could stop him?


    While Wu Huan was still reeling from the shock, a smaller, purple tail suddenly coiled around his waist.


    "Damn it!" Wu Huan''s face turned pale. He realized he was in grave danger��it was the monster!


    Zhong Shan smirked coldly. He never expected the Celestial sh to harm Wu Huan, just to dy him long enough for the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail to catch him. Once it did, the fight was over.


    Wu Huan struggled desperately, but the tail''s grip was impossibly strong. Even as a Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivator, he couldn''t move.


    The massive mouth of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail closed in on Wu Huan with terrifying speed.


    "No!" Wu Huan screamed, finding himself at the brink of the monster''s mouth. In an instant, he would be swallowed.


    Seeing this, Wu Huan''s despair deepened. He knew the mouth''s strength too well. It had devoured a volcano and the Soul-Falling Bell without hesitation. His body, no matter how strong, couldn''t withstand such power. Once inside, he was doomed.


    In his despair, a fierce resolve shed across Wu Huan''s face. His expression twisted as he shouted, "If I''m going down, I''m taking you with me!"


    Wu Huan roared, his body swelling. In a sh, he transformed into a massive three-legged golden crow, but the expansion didn''t stop. He continued to growrger.


    "Self-detonation?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Boom!" Just as the explosion was about to ur, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail engulfed the gigantic golden crow, swallowing it whole.


    "Chomp!"

 Chapter 680: Enigmatic Fate

    <h4>Chapter 680: Enigmatic Fate</h4>


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail swallowed the massive three-legged golden crow in one gulp! This scene did not escape Gui Shou''s notice from afar. Cold sweat poured down his face as his mind raced in terror. Dealing with Wang Ku had already left him in a dire state, and now Wu Huan had been devoured by a monstrous creature?


    Without a moment''s hesitation, Gui Shou turned and fled. There was no loyalty between him and Wu Huan��they were only allies due to their connection in the Longevity Realm. Gui Shou bolted away, bursting through the lightning waterfall set up by Zhong Shan, with Wang Ku in close pursuit.


    As soon as the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail swallowed the three-legged golden crow, it shot back into Zhong Shan''s body, disappearing in an instant. Zhong Shan closed his eyes briefly, surrounded by intense lightning, his entire being radiating like a powerful source of electricity, emitting rays like the sun.


    The ground below erupted with thick smoke, and in moments, the entire area was shrouded in a dense cloud. A cacophony of crackling followed, and the boundless lightning converged into Zhong Shan''s body. Suddenly, the surrounding lightning vanished.


    As the dust settled, Zhong Shan''s form reappeared. He opened his eyes slowly and exhaled deeply.


    Imperial Extreme Realm, Sixth Layer!


    Despite the vast energy from devouring the Ninth Grade Soul-Falling Bell, Wu Huan''s Ninth Grade gloves, and the powerful three-legged golden crow, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail absorbed most of it, leaving only a fraction for Zhong Shan. This meager portion allowed him to advance just oneyer in cultivation.


    "Only oneyer?" Zhong Shan sighed internally. "If Ninth Grade treasures are no longer sufficient, the energy required for future advancements will be even greater, making cultivation increasingly difficult. And I haven''t even reached the Heavenly Extreme Realm yet��how much harder will it be then?"


    Filled with concern, Zhong Shan looked around. Gui Shou and Wang Ku had vanished, while in the sky, the thunderclouds rolled continuously. The fiery red clouds were filled with searing mes��a testament to the formidable power of the heavenly tribtion.


    Lu Guatian and Wu Jiutian had disappeared from view, but from the violent churning of the thunderclouds, it was clear that both had entered the storm, undergoing their tribtion amidst the clouds. Such bravery and resolve!


    With the Heavenly Thunder Transformation dissipated, the endless curtain of lightning vanished, leaving only the majestic tribtion clouds and the two figures within them.


    Zhong Shan retreated, quickly locating Nie Qingqing and Wu Luo, who were hiding nearby.


    "Zhong Shan, are you alright?" Nie Qingqing asked immediately.


    "And the Supreme?" Wu Luo inquired urgently.


    "I''m fine. Wu Jiutian is undergoing her tribtion," Zhong Shan replied, then turned his attention back to the tumultuous clouds above.


    Nie Qingqing and Wu Luo remained silent, watching the sky patiently. Shortly, Wang Ku returned.


    "How did it go?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Gui Shou escaped," Wang Ku replied tersely.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly, nodding gravely. He resumed watching the sky.


    Interfering with a tribtion was a grave mistake; it only increased the power of the heavenly tribtion. Wu Jiutian and Lu Guatian were now within the clouds, facing their tribtions. They had to handle it themselves.


    "Waaah!"


    The Supreme fell, and a thousand crows cried out in sorrow. Perhaps sensing this, all the crows knew that Wu Huan had perished. Throughout the entire Shenzhou, it seemed as if every crow felt a deep sense of grief, continuously crying out in mourning.


    In the Tai Sui Heavenly Dynasty, the crown princes watched their three-legged golden crows. The three-legged golden crows looked up to the sky and wailed, as if the heavens themselves were copsing.


    "What happened?" Crown Prince Chongtian asked the golden crow beside him.


    "The Supreme has fallen!" the three-legged golden crow eximed.


    "Dead? Killed by Nie Fancheng?" Chongtian''s brows furrowed.


    On Phoenix Ind, at the beach, Lu Litian had just arrived.


    Crown Prince Litian stood with a giant peacock on his left and a three-legged golden crow on his right.


    Suddenly, the three-legged golden crow let out a mournful cry.


    "What''s the matter?" Crown Prince Litian frowned.


    "The Supreme has fallen!" the three-legged golden crow wailed.


    "Wu Huan is dead?" Litian''s brow knitted.


    "Yes!"


    "Dead is dead. Why the wailing? With Wu Huan gone, you will be the new Supreme of the crow tribe!" Litian''s words brooked no dissent.


    "Yes!" The three-legged golden crow immediately responded respectfully.


    Ignoring Wu Huan''s death, Crown Prince Litian gazed at Phoenix Ind. On the ind, countless phoenixes spread their wings and soared, creating a holy and beautiful scene. With a wicked smile, Litian stepped forward.


    At Mount Zhong, Wu Jiutian and Lu Guitian were undergoing their tribtions, which hadsted an entire day. Suddenly, the vast red clouds in the sky began to burn ominously.


    A resounding phoenix cry echoed, prating all directions. On the ground, countless nts bizarrely began to grow rapidly at that moment. The phoenix cry seemed to infuse them with boundless vitality. The red clouds in the sky were set aze, turning the entire sky red.


    The massive mes gradually formed the shape of a giant phoenix, resembling Wu Jiutian''s true form. A purple character "Yao" constantly shed atop the giant phoenix''s head. Suddenly, the character shattered into pieces and dispersed like smoke.


    Wu Jiutian had broken free from the control of the divine seal.


    On Phoenix Ind, after a day of reconnaissance, Crown Prince Litian narrowed his eyes and said, "Alright, let''s begin!"


    "Yes!" The peacock and the three-legged golden crow immediately nodded.


    Suddenly, Litian''s brow twitched.


    "Master, what is it?" the three-legged golden crow asked in surprise.


    "Wu Jiutian has ascended and broken through my divine seal!" Litian said coldly, squinting his eyes.


    "Then we...?" the three-legged golden crow inquired, frowning.


    "Continue!" Litianmanded.


    "Yes!"


    At Mount Zhong, Wu Jiutian let out a phoenix cry, breaking free from the seal and charging into another tribtion cloud.


    "Ahhh!" Lu Guitian screamed in agony, suddenly falling from the sky. As he fell, endless thunder and fire followed, a terrifying river of lightning and mes rushing down, targeting only Lu Guitian.


    Booming explosions resounded continuously as Lu Guitian, powerless to resist, was shattered into pieces by Wu Jiutian and the endless tribtion lightning and fire.


    As Lu Guitian''s broken sword fell to the ground with a resounding ng, his body shattered into pieces. Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes in disbelief. Had Lu Guitian truly been obliterated? Reduced to dust and ashes? He was the Emperor of the Tai Sui Heavenly Dynasty, and now he was dead?


    Zhong Shan felt a sense of unreality, but the fact remained that Lu Guitian had indeed perished before his very eyes. He was gone.


    A wave of sorrow washed over Zhong Shan''s heart, but it was quickly overshadowed by a deeper sense of confusion. Burying his doubts within, Zhong Shan turned his gaze to Wu Jiutian, who had transformed back into her human form.


    Wu Jiutian radiated a brilliant array of colors, her ethereal beauty so striking that it seemed as if a celestial maiden had descended to the mortal realm. She exuded an aura that made people hesitant to show any disrespect.


    "Zhong Shan, I owe my thanks to you this time," Wu Jiutian said with a smile as she approached.


    Seeing Wu Jiutian''s smile, Zhong Shan''s confusion only deepened. Wu Jiutian? Smiling? Now? Was she not saddened by Nie Fancheng''s death? Was she smiling solely because of her own ascension?


    "It was nothing," Zhong Shan replied calmly.


    "Nothing, you say. Regardless, I''ve ascended. I''ll be leaving this realm soon, and there are some things I need to exin to you," Wu Jiutian said after a moment''s thought.


    "Go ahead," Zhong Shan replied solemnly.


    "This is something Nie Fancheng asked me to give you before he died. It concerns the matters you will face next. Consider it Nie Fancheng''s way of repaying an old debt and resolving the karma between you two," Wu Jiutian said, handing over a scroll.


    Zhong Shan took the scroll with a frown, not inspecting it immediately but storing it away. His confusion only grew. Nie Fancheng had asked Wu Jiutian to give this to him? What old debt? Was Nie Fancheng not dead? Wu Jiutian had only arrived after Nie Fancheng''s self-destruction, so when did Nie Fancheng entrust this to her? Could it have been arranged beforehand?


    "Is Nie Fancheng dead?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Wu Jiutian''s expression turned solemn as she took a deep breath and said, "Yes, he is dead."


    Dead? Zhong Shan''s confusion intensified. Did Nie Fancheng foresee his own death and make preparations in advance? But that did not make sense. Was Wu Jiutian lying? No, she did not seem to be lying. So what was the truth?


    "This is the Phoenix n Order. With it, you canmand all the phoenixes in the world. I am entrusting it to you now, hoping you remember your old promise," Wu Jiutian said seriously.


    "Promise?" Zhong Shan immediately recalled his first visit to the Phoenix n, where he had learned that Wu Jiutian had saved Tian Ling''er. At that time, he had solemnly promised to ensure the prosperity of the Phoenix n. Wu Jiutian had been dismissive then, but now she brought it up again. With Zhong Shan''s character, he would not go back on his word.


    "I said it before, as long as I live, I will ensure the Phoenix n prospers. Rest assured," Zhong Shan said as he epted the Phoenix n Order.


    "Take good care of Zhu Que. She has over eight hundred years of lifespan remaining," Wu Jiutian said, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Of course," Zhong Shan nodded, though his confusion deepened. It felt as if there was a thin veil separating him from the truth. If he could just pierce through it, everything would be clear. But he could not.


    "Nie Qingqing, you wille with me to the Great Thousand World," Wu Jiutian suddenly said, looking at Nie Qingqing.


    "Huh?" Everyone was slightly taken aback.


    "I promised Nie Fancheng I would take good care of you. Even if I leave this realm, I will take you with me," Wu Jiutian said.


    "But... but I''m just a mortal!" Nie Qingqing shook her head in disbelief.


    Nie Qingqing nced at Zhong Shan, a hint of reluctance in her eyes.


    "The Great Thousand World has mortals as well, don''t worry. I have a secret method to take you out," Wu Jiutian said firmly.


    "But... but..." Nie Qingqing was visibly hesitant.


    Suddenly, Nie Qingqing''s expression changed dramatically. She looked at Wu Jiutian in astonishment.


    Zhong Shan noticed the change in Nie Qingqing''s expression and realized that Wu Jiutian had secretlymunicated something to her. What could it have been to cause such a reaction?


    "Yes, I will go with you," Nie Qingqing immediately nodded.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan looked at the two in surprise.


    "Take care. We must go now," Wu Jiutian said, wasting no time.


    Nie Qingqing looked at Zhong Shan with a tinge of reluctance, but she bit her lip and said, "We''ll meet again in the Great Thousand World!"


    "Take care," Zhong Shan nodded.


    With a flicker, Wu Jiutian and Nie Qingqing disappeared before the three of them. Watching their departure, Zhong Shan felt increasingly unsettled. Everything seemed shrouded in mystery. Wasn''t Nie Fancheng dead? Even Wu Jiutian had confirmed his death. So what was really going on?

 Chapter 681: Reunion with Crown Prince Litian

    <h4>Chapter 681: Reunion with Crown Prince Litian</h4>


    As Wu Jiutian and Nie Qingqing vanished, Zhong Shan took a deep breath, his eyes growing more solemn. Nie Fancheng''s death remained a knot in Zhong Shan''s heart, shrouded in too many oddities. Everyone had seen Nie Fancheng die, and Wu Jiutian had confirmed it. Yet, this death felt eerily strange.


    Was he truly dead? Sending Nie Qingqing to call for him, arriving just after the copse of the Lihuo Sacred Capital,ing to rescue Wu Jiutian��everything seemed too convenient. Wu Jiutian''s expression had conveyed a sense of inevitability, as if Zhong Shan''s rescue of her was part of arger n. The st words'' and ''instructions'' from Nie Fancheng also seemed overly coincidental, as if pre-arranged.


    This felt like a meticulously orchestrated scheme, likely set up by Nie Fancheng, but it also carried an air of mystery. Zhong Shan took a deep breath, organizing his thoughts. To understand everything, he needed to investigate further. Mere spection would lead nowhere.


    "Your Majesty, should we head to Phoenix Ind?" Wang Ku asked.


    "Yes, of course. Crown Prince Litian has already gone there. Something significant must have happened on Phoenix Ind. I promised Wu Jiutian and hold the Phoenix n Order. I am obligated to protect the Phoenix n," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Thank you!" Wu Luo bowed.


    Zhong Shan nodded. Wang Ku, however, secretly admired Zhong Shan''s shrewdness. Clearly aiming for the Phoenix n, yet he spoke so righteously!


    "Wu Luo, transform into a giant phoenix," Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Wu Luo immediatelyplied.


    Zhong Shan flew a short distance away to pick up the sword left behind by Lu Guitian. Though mostly shattered, it was still a ninth-grade magical treasure. Zhong Shan had no intention of feeding it to Ba Ji Tianwei. Consuming a ninth-grade magical treasure would be futile now, especially since the sword was leaking substantial energy.


    Gazing at the sword, Zhong Shan pondered briefly and sheathed it. Perhaps it woulde in handy against Crown Prince Litian.


    Zhong Shan remembered Litian vividly. Although unaware of Litian''s exact power, Zhong Shan instinctively sensed his terrifying strength. Litian was an extremely cunning individual, deeply hidden. From what Mr. Shi had shared about the Demon Army and the "Yao" divine seal, it was evident that Litian, like Mr. Shi, hailed from the Great Thousand World. To Zhong Shan, Litian was as dangerous as the Raven Dao Lord.


    This journey was solely for the Phoenix n. Zhong Shan knew he could not handle Litian unless he reached the Tianji realm.


    "Go!" Zhong Shan shouted as he mounted the giant phoenix, heading swiftly toward Phoenix Ind.


    In a city near the Lihuo Sacred Capital, Zhong Shan made a brief stop, visiting a branch of the Great Glory Commerce. He emerged after a short while and continued northward.


    At the center of Phoenix Ind, a colossal Phoenix Pce was surrounded by a massive formation, isting it from the outside.


    Inside, ten enormous phoenixesy limp on the ground, including fire phoenixes, ice phoenixes, and azure luans. They appeared utterly drained, weakly sprawled out, their eyes filled with hatred.


    At the entrance of the Phoenix Pce, Crown Prince Litian sat in a grand chair, sipping tea with a calm expression. Beside him was a shrunken three-legged golden crow and arge peacock. The peacock''s eyes gleamed, staring intently at the ten giant phoenixes, who returned his gaze with intense hatred.


    "Kong Shang, you despicable scoundrel! We trusted you, and you betrayed us!" an ice phoenix cried out in anger.


    "I told you, I had no choice. If you agree to serve the master, we can still be the best of friends," Kong Shang, therge peacock, said.


    "Pei! You wretched soul! You even abandoned your phoenix form! If we agree to your terms, we''ll end up just like you, fallen into the demonic path!" the fire phoenix spat in anger.


    "Phoenix form? Hahaha, phoenix form? Do you truly believe that the phoenix is the ancestor of all birds?" Kong Shang sneered.


    "The phoenix is indeed the ancestor of all birds! It is an honor for any bird to transform into a phoenix! Only ten types of birds have this privilege. You, a traitor to the phoenix n, have even forsaken your phoenix form!" the fire phoenix retorted coldly.


    "Wrong, wrong. Not all birds see transforming into a phoenix as an honor. And the phoenix is not the ancestor of all birds!" Kong Shang shook his head.


    "Hahaha, if not the phoenix, then who? The peacock?" the fire phoenix mocked.


    "Exactly. The peacock came before the phoenix. The peacock is the true ancestor of all birds! We peacocks possess the five-colored divine feathers. What do you phoenixes have? If not for the master helping me, I might have abandoned my own advantages!" Kong Shang sneered.


    "Hahahaha, five-colored divine feathers? Never heard of them. Kong Shang, you''re mad, insane!" the fire phoenixughed hysterically.


    "Mad? What is madness? When the master captures Wu Jiutian, you''ll see who is truly mad!" Kong Shang sneered.


    "How dare you disrespect the Supreme?" the ice phoenix said coldly.


    "Respect? Hahaha, when the master enves Wu Jiutian, you''ll understand what respect is!" Kong Shang said disdainfully.


    "Enve? The Supreme has ascended. All phoenixes in the world can sense it. The Supreme has already ascended. Do you think you can capture her? Hmph! The Supreme will surelye here, and then it will be your end!" the ice phoenix said coldly.


    "Is that so?" Crown Prince Litian, who had been quietly sipping tea, suddenly smiled faintly.


    All the phoenixes turned to look at Crown Prince Litian, their eyes filled with hatred, though a hint of fear was hidden within.


    "If she''sing back, then we''ll wait," Crown Prince Litian said calmly.


    "Master, should I ce the divine seal on them?" Kong Shang asked.


    "No need. Once we capture Wu Jiutian, we will ce the highest divine seal on her and let her control them. I don''t have time to deal with them," Crown Prince Litian shook his head.


    "Understood!" Kong Shang nodded.


    Over the North Sea, a giant phoenix carried Zhong Shan and Wang Ku, speeding towards Phoenix Ind like a streak of light.


    The phoenix''s speed was indeed unmatched. Among beings of the same level, only a few exceptional individuals of different races could match the speed of a phoenix.


    Wu Luo''s cultivation was only at the imperial extreme realm, yet her speed was nearing that of the celestial extreme realm, far outpacing Zhong Shan''s own flight speed. Zhong Shan could match Wu Luo''s speed if he exerted all his strength, but not for as long. It was likeparing a short-distance sprint champion to a long-distance running champion.


    With one human, one phoenix, and one skeleton, they charged towards Phoenix Ind at breakneck speed.


    "Emperor Zhong, we are approaching Phoenix Ind!" Wu Luo reminded.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Soon, Zhong Shan saw the vast Phoenix Ind. Tens of thousands of phoenixes cried out in unison, flying frantically, trying to reach the central Phoenix Pce. However, arge formation seemed to surround the pce, preventing the phoenixes from entering. They could only hover outside, crying out in fury.


    "Yin��Yin��Yin��Yin��Yin��Yin��Yin��Yin��"


    Zhong Shan once again witnessed the cries of countless phoenixes, but this time, they were cries of anger.


    "Yin��" Wu Luo let out a long cry, causing the tens of thousands of phoenixes to stop in their tracks and swiftly fly toward her.


    "Wu Luo King, the kings are imprisoned. Please, Wu Luo King, act quickly!" a phoenix cried out urgently.


    "This is Emperor Zhong Shan, whom you should all be familiar with. During the Supreme''s tribtion, we were all present. The Supreme entrusted the Phoenix n to him before her ascension and bestowed upon him the Phoenix n Order," Wu Luo introduced Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan cooperatively disyed the Phoenix n Order.


    Seeing the Phoenix n Order, the phoenixes were initially stunned, then reluctantly acknowledged it, "We acknowledge the Phoenix n Order!"


    Clearly, the phoenixes were resistant to the idea of a human wielding the Phoenix n Order.


    "Let''s set aside our differences for now and focus on rescuing the other phoenix kings!" Zhong Shan said.


    This pragmatic statement resonated more than any formalities. The phoenixes'' expressions softened immediately.


    Zhong Shan, along with the phoenixes, flew to the exterior of the Phoenix Pce, gazing at the massive, mist-shrouded formation. Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed.


    "Wang Ku, break the formation!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Wang Ku responded promptly.


    Inside the formation, Crown Prince Litian, sitting on his chair, raised an eyebrow and slowly stood up, directing his sharp gaze toward Zhong Shan outside. His eyes glowed with a cold light, and the thin seam on his forehead trembled, as if ready to open at any moment.


    Wang Ku, leading the charge, extended a hand��or rather, a ck, cracked skeletal w��toward the formation.


    A giant handprint suddenly materialized on the formation, emitting an aura of extreme yin and malevolence.


    "Boom!" The formation shattered with a thunderous crash.


    But as it broke, a beam of light suddenly shot out from within, consisting of three colors: red, yellow, and blue. The tricolored beam tore through the space, a terrifying attack aimed directly at Wang Ku, who had broken the formation.


    "Boom!" With a loud explosion, the space trembled, and a ten-zhang ck hole appeared in mid-air. At the edge of the ck hole was Wang Ku''s bronze throne, which had intercepted the tricolored beam.


    Zhong Shan saw clearly that the tricolored beam had shot from the thin seam on Crown Prince Litian''s forehead the moment the formation broke.


    It was Crown Prince Litian. He was indeed formidable.


    "Tricolored Divine Light? Are you from the ''Hongru Sage'' lineage of the Great Thousand World?" Wang Ku asked in a deep voice.

 Chapter 682: The Scholar Sage

    <h4>Chapter 682: The Schr Sage</h4>


    "Three-colored Divine Light? Are you from the ''Schr Sage'' lineage of the Great Thousand World?" Wang Ku asked in a deep voice.


    As the grand formation dissipated, the ck hole in the sky gradually vanished. All the phoenixes could now clearly see the scene outside Phoenix Pce.


    Ten Phoenix Kingsy limp on the ground, while Prince Lietian stood with his hands behind his back, his gaze cold. The three-legged Golden Crow and Kong Shang stood on either side of him.


    Thousands of phoenixes red angrily below!


    Prince Lietian looked at the countless phoenixes, then at Zhong Shan, and finally at Wang Ku!


    "Schr Sage? You actually know about the Schr Sage?" Prince Lietian looked at Wang Ku with a hint of suspicion.


    "Are you a descendant of the Kong family, or an inheritor of the seventy-two disciples of the Schr Sage?" Wang Ku asked again.


    Prince Lietian''s eyes turned cold as he looked at Wang Ku, "You know too much!"


    With that, a massive peacock phantom suddenly emerged from behind Prince Lietian. The phantom soared into the sky, and in an instant, the heavens and the earth changed color. The surrounding sky turned blue, and a sharp killing intent surged straight at Wang Ku.


    At this moment, a gigantic peacock w suddenly descended from the sky, moving in a bizarre trajectory, aiming directly at Wang Ku. The w didn''t tear through space, but Zhong Shan, standing not far away, felt his hair stand on end, overwhelmed by an extremely fierce killing intent.


    "Crack! Crack! Crack!"


    Strange sounds emanated from Wang Ku''s body.


    In front of him, the bronze throne suddenly emitted a burst of deadly aura, freezing the surrounding space and producingrge amounts of drifting snow. The bronze throne rapidly erged.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The bronze throne and the giant peacock w collided fiercely once again. Upon impact, the peacock w shattered, but the bronze throne remained immovable. A massive ck hole, about a thousand feet wide, appeared around them, causing the phoenixes to quickly retreat.


    The ck hole slowly disappeared, but the scene left everyone stunned.


    The bronze throne was so sturdy? Witnessing this, not only was Prince Lietian shocked, but even Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    "What kind of immortal artifact is this?" Prince Lietian asked, frowning in astonishment.


    Prince Lietian couldn''t believe it. The nine-grade treasures of the world shouldn''t be stronger than the ''Blue Peacock w'' just now. This wasn''t a spell but a jade talisman from the Great Thousand World, which, despite having a single-use effect, possessed the power of a Celestial Immortal. Yet, such formidable power had no effect against the bronze throne, not even causing it to shake. How was this possible?


    "This is my throne!" Wang Ku sneered.


    "Your throne?" Prince Lietian''s pupils shrank, his gaze growing even colder.


    "Wang Ku, I bestow upon you a nine-grade sword to aid your might!" Zhong Shan suddenly spoke.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan took out the broken sword of Lu Guitian and tossed it to Wang Ku.


    "Crack!" Wang Ku caught the sword and slowly sat on the bronze throne, looking down at the scene below.


    "The Sage''s sacred sword?" Prince Lietian''s pupils shrank, a look of horror shing in his eyes.


    Suddenly, Prince Lietian nced at Zhong Shan, a look of surprise in his eyes, while Zhong Shan merely wore a cold smile.


    "It was you? You killed Wuhuan? And Lu Guitian too?" Prince Lietian asked in shock.


    "The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, like Da Li, has be history!" Zhong Shan sneered. However, he remained cautiously alert.


    Because the Red Luan Pink Lotus in Zhong Shan''s brow was undergoing strange changes, turning blue one moment and pink the next. Blue signified great misfortune, great misfortune? Zhong Shan''s heart clenched in anxiety! But his expression remained unchanged.


    Prince Lietian''s eyes flickered with uncertainty as he looked at Zhong Shan, then at Wang Ku, and finally at the sacred sword, his expression growing increasinglyplex.


    "We''re leaving!" Prince Lietian ordered coldly.


    "But, Master, leave? We..." Kong Shang protested, frowning.


    "I said, leave!" Prince Lietianmanded more sternly.


    "Let them go!" Zhong Shan instructed in a deep voice.


    "Yes!" Wang Ku nodded.


    Prince Lietian took onest deep look at Zhong Shan, then, along with the three-legged Golden Crow and Kong Shang, vanished before Zhong Shan''s eyes. For the first time, Prince Lietian was not victorious. Zhong Shan?


    As Prince Lietian departed, Zhong Shan let out a long breath, his heart swelling with a sense of exhration.


    "Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!" Zhong Shanughed heartily. Hisughter, however, carried a trace of bitterness. He wasn''tughing because he had driven Prince Lietian away but because the gap between him and Prince Lietian was narrowing. In the past, their first meeting had left him awaiting death; the second time, Prince Lietian could kill him at any moment. This third time, he wanted to kill him but was forced to retreat. Hmph, by the fourth time, Zhong Shan swore to further close the gap between them. One day, he would make Prince Lietian suffer a thousand tortures to soothe Kui''er''s spirit in the heavens.


    After the bitterughter, Zhong Shan''s expression grew more resolute.


    "Whoo!" Wang Ku also sighed lightly, slowly retracting the bronze throne.


    "Your Majesty, that was close!" Wang Ku remarked.


    "I heard the sound of your bones earlier. Are they breaking again? Are you more severely injured?" Zhong Shan asked with concern.


    "Yes, I need to meditate for a while," Wang Ku replied.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Wang Ku then produced a magnificent pce with a wave of his hand and ced it near Phoenix Pce before walking inside alone.


    Meanwhile, the group of phoenixes had already flown down to where the ten Phoenix Kings were lying.


    "Are you all alright?" Wu Luo asked as she approached.


    "We were drugged by that bastard Kong Shang, and we can''t break free!" Fire Phoenix sighed.


    "What kind of drug is it?" Wu Luo asked.


    "No idea! We''ve never encountered it before! The effect is too strong," Ice Phoenix sighed.


    Wu Luo was anxious.


    "Drug? Let me try," Zhong Shan offered.


    As soon as Zhong Shan spoke, Wu Luo made way for him.


    A drug? Zhong Shan was a master of drugs.


    Ignoring what kind of drug it was, he infused the Red Luan Miasma into Fire Phoenix''s body. The miasma drew out the drug''s essence and expelled the impurities.


    The impurities emitted a foul stench, making the phoenixes wrinkle their noses.


    "It''s done. Hey? I''m okay!" Fire Phoenix, quickly transforming back into human form, stood up excitedly.


    Seeing the result, the phoenixes were overjoyed. Zhong Shan repeated the process for each phoenix.


    Soon, all the phoenixes were cured.


    Three dayster, Wang Ku finally recovered and emerged from the magnificent pce.


    During these three days, with Zhong Shan''s abilities, the Phoenix n''s token, and saving the Phoenix Kings, he hadpletely earned the trust of most of the phoenixes. There were still a few who were skeptical, but they didn''t pose any significant threat.


    As Wang Ku stepped out of the pce, he saw countless phoenixes moving various items from Phoenix Ind.


    "Your Majesty, what is this?" Wang Ku asked, puzzled.


    "The phoenixes have agreed to relocate Phoenix Ind to the Dazhi Empire!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Uh!" Wang Ku was slightly taken aback, then sincerely said, "I am impressed!"


    How could Wang Ku not be impressed? In just three days, Zhong Shan had used his eloquence to persuade an entire n of phoenixes. This was an extraordinary feat. Wang Ku knew that among all the ns in the world, the most proud were not the dragon n, the wolf n, or the tiger n, but the phoenixes. Wherever they were, phoenixes were the proudest of all races. Yet, such a proud race had been persuaded by the emperor in just three days. It was truly unbelievable.


    "They''re just moving over," Zhong Shanughed.


    Moving? Once they were in your domain, would you ever let them go? Wang Ku thought, but he refrained frommenting further on this matter.


    "Your Majesty, Prince Lietian is very strong, extremely strong. I feel he didn''t even use his full strength!" Wang Ku said solemnly.


    "Yes, I know," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Then why did he leave so hastily just now? Even if I bluffed him, he should have tested us further. If he had, I wouldn''t have been able to hold on for much longer!" Wang Ku sighed.


    "You bluffed him? Your strength is not weak either!" Zhong Shanughed. He had seen the power of the bronze throne. Despite Prince Lietian''s probe, the throne had not budged an inch. It seemed Wang Ku was a formidable figure in his own right.


    "Forgive me, Your Majesty, I..." Wang Ku fell silent for a moment.


    "No need to exin. As long as I know you are themander of the ninth legion of the Dazhi Empire, that is enough," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Wang Ku sighed in relief.


    ording to his previous vow, Wang Ku could not lie to Zhong Shan. However, he had too many secrets to reveal. Fortunately, Zhong Shan was understanding, and Wang Ku felt a slight touch of gratitude in his heart.


    "You asked why Prince Lietian left? That was because of you!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Oh?"


    "He was testing you. If you were just a fa?ade, he wouldn''t have cared. But if you could truly threaten him, then his probing would result in a prolonged entanglement, and he didn''t want to stay here too long. He needs to return; with Lu Guitian dead, he wants to take over the entire Taishui Heavenly Dynasty," Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "No wonder..." Wang Ku nodded.


    "You mentioned the Schr Sage earlier. What is that about?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    "It starts with a n from the Great Thousand World," Wang Ku exined.


    "Oh?"


    "The Peacock n. Among the beast ns, they are incredibly powerful and have deep foundations. Their strength rivals that of the Phoenix n, Dragon n, Witch n, and many other great ns in the Great Thousand World. They have many secret techniques, the most famous being the Seven-colored Divine Light. With each additional color, its power multiplies. Earlier, Prince Lietian could only use the three-colored divine light," Wang Ku exined.


    "Three-colored divine light? Seven-colored divine light? Five-colored divine light?" Zhong Shan pondered.


    "The five-colored divine light is the limit for most of the Peacock n. It is refined from the five-colored divine feathers of their own plumage and is said to be able to cleanse all things. The seven-colored divine light is extremely rare, with only a few members of the Peacock n capable of using it. It is so mysterious that no one knows its full extent. It''s said that aside from sages, anyone who sees the seven-colored divine light dies," Wang Ku sighed.


    "Oh?"


    "Such a powerful n was already formidable enough, but then a sage emerged from the Peacock n, known as the Schr Sage, or Confucius. With the emergence of this sage, the already strong n became even more powerful," Wang Ku marveled.

 Chapter 683: The World as a Chessboard, the Dynasty as a Chess Piece

    <h4>Chapter 683: The World as a Chessboard, the Dynasty as a Chess Piece</h4>


    In the grand hall of the Daqin Heavenly Dynasty:


    "Your Majesty, Nie Fancheng has been dead for some time now. We can now march northward!" Li Si stepped forward and bowed.


    "Dead?" Ying tapped the armrest of the dragon throne lightly.


    "Your Majesty, is Nie Fancheng truly dead?" Li Si asked with a furrowed brow.


    "Does it matter whether he''s dead or not?" Ying replied calmly.


    "Indeed," Li Si nodded. It truly no longer mattered whether Nie Fancheng was dead or alive.


    "However, Nie Fancheng was quite remarkable, abandoning the Dali Heavenly Dynasty and adding more chaos to the Divine Land," Ying remarked.


    At this moment, Bai Qi stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, I am willing to lead the troops north!"


    Ying looked at Bai Qi and finally nodded, "Very well. Your soul has just returned, and the gods have just settled. Your body is still too weak. Marching north to wage war will be the best remedy for your recovery."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Bai Qi bowed.


    "Your Majesty, it might not be long before Chancellor L��''s soul returns as well," Li Si bowed and said.


    "Yes, you and Xu Fu will handle the preparations for this," Ying nodded.


    "Understood!" Li Si immediatelyplied.


    The phoenixes had almostpletely moved everything from Phoenix Ind. Countless phoenixes scattered, heading southward towards the Divine Land, their destination being the Lingxiao Heavenly Court!


    As soon as the major events on Phoenix Ind concluded, Zhong Shan rushed back to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The uncertainty of Nie Fancheng''s fate gnawed at him, making him eager to return and find out the truth.


    Monthster, at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, in the Tianyuan Pavilion:


    In Zhong Shan''s study stood Yi Yan, Shuijing, Shui Wuhen, Zhao Suoxiang, and Wang Ku, the legionmanders.


    "Your Majesty, the downfall of the Dali Heavenly Dynasty was truly unexpected!" Yi Yan sighed and shook his head.


    "Have we gathered the intelligence?" Zhong Shan asked Shuijing.


    "We have. Before the fall of the Dali Heavenly Dynasty, its top strategists mysteriously disappeared one by one. Even Shao Feihou, whom Your Majesty had been closely monitoring, vanished along with his entire family," Shuijing reported.


    Hearing Shuijing''s report, Zhong Shan furrowed his brow deeply.


    "Your Majesty, did Nie Fancheng n this disappearance in advance?" Yi Yan spected.


    "However, Wu Jiutian couldn''t have lied to me. From her resolute tone, I know that Nie Fancheng is definitely dead!" Zhong Shan said, frowning.


    The legionmanders also furrowed their brows.


    "Your Majesty, could Wu Jiutian have lied?" Zhao Suoxiang asked, frowning.


    "She shouldn''t have. She said Nie Fancheng... Nie Fancheng, Nie Fancheng?" Zhong Shan suddenly stood up, his eyes filled with seriousness and then surprise as he repeatedly pondered Nie Fancheng''s name.


    "Nie Fancheng? Fancheng, the mundane world? Nie, nirvana? Nirvana in the mundane world?" Zhong Shan carefully pondered.


    "Your Majesty!" The ministers looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Let me ask you, in the history of the Divine Land, has there ever been a Nie surname?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "There are millions of surnames in the Divine Land. Although it''s uncertain if there has ever been a Nie surname, we can be sure that no notable person with the Nie surname has appeared throughout history, until the sudden rise of the Dali Heavenly Dynasty," Shuijing, the most knowledgeable, immediately responded.


    "Hmm!" Zhong Shan nodded, taking a deep breath before finally revealing a peculiar smile.


    "Your Majesty, is Nie Fancheng not dead?" Shui Wuhen asked.


    "Nie Fancheng is dead, but he has been reborn through nirvana. He died in the Small Thousand World but is alive again in the Great Thousand World. It''s unbelievable, truly unbelievable! What kind of cultivation method is this?" Zhong Shan sighed.


    "This is not a cultivation method; it is a divine power!" Wang Ku suddenly spoke up.


    "Divine power?" Zhong Shan looked at Wang Ku.


    Wang Ku''s origins were extremely mysterious, and he knew a lot about many things.


    "Yes, above cultivation methods, there is a magical ability called divine power. Your Majesty is actually familiar with it!" Wang Ku exined.


    "Oh?"


    "I believe that Your Majesty''s two bodies can be considered a type of divine power!" Wang Ku continued.


    "A type of divine power?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Yes, divine powers are not something ordinary people can create. Every person who creates a divine power is an extraordinary genius. Generally, people below the level of Celestial Immortal cannot even touch the edges of divine powers. Even above the Celestial Immortal level, few can grasp it. However, there are exceptions, like Your Majesty and like Nie Fancheng. Perhaps the immortal behind Empress Gan is also one such exception!" Wang Ku exined.


    "Divine powers are different from cultivation methods?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Divine powers can ignore cultivation methods, the rules of heaven and earth, and thews of nature. Of course, there are many other miraculous uses, and each ''divine power'' is unique!" Wang Ku marveled.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The group fell into silence.


    "Your Majesty, Nie Fancheng''s so-called repayment of a favor, does it have to do with that old eunuch?" Yi Yan asked.


    "The old eunuch? That is part of it!" Zhong Shan replied.


    In fact, Zhong Shan had long suspected the old eunuch. Even if he was sent by the Longevity Realm, what does it mean to be a Heavenly Dynasty Sovereign? The fundamental principle of the emperor''s way is to win hearts and minds. That old eunuch had followed Nie Fancheng for so many years; it was impossible for Nie Fancheng not to win his loyalty. As apetent sovereign, he should be able to win over even the most steadfast heart. Moreover, during the Wan Dan Conference, the old eunuch was abandoned and killed by the Longevity Realm, and Nie Fancheng saved him. Wasn''t that enough for Nie Fancheng to use it to win his loyalty?


    It could only be that the old eunuch and Nie Fancheng were putting on an act!


    "Oh? What else?" Yi Yan showed a hint of doubt, evidently suspecting that the old eunuch wouldn''t betray Nie Fancheng.


    "A woman from thousands of years ago, Empress Kong! She was the catalyst when the ancient divine powers, including Nie Fancheng, besieged the Bliss Pure Land. At that time, the Buddhas borrowed the power of the sacrednd. Though they couldn''t win, they could avoid defeat. Because of my ''life cmity,'' I helped Nie Fancheng exact his revenge," Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    "Hmm!" The group nodded in agreement.


    "Nie Fancheng was indeed an extraordinary hero, even taking his non-immortal officials to the Great Thousand World!" Shuijing sighed.


    "In this mortal world, apart from Lu Guitian, which Heavenly Dynasty Sovereign is simple? Each one is a prodigy!" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Lu Guitian?" The group pondered.


    "Since Lu Guitian''s death, has the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s fortune dispersed?" Zhong Shan asked Shuijing.


    "No, it hasn''t dispersed at all. Normally, when a sovereign dies, the dynasty''s fortune should scatter, but the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s fortune has not dissipated. It''s very strange! However, it is now controlled by Prince Lietian, who has changed his name to Kong Lietian," Shuijing replied.


    "Indeed, he is a descendant of the Kong family!" Wang Ku remarked.


    Zhong Shan furrowed his brows deeply and then suddenly widened his eyes, filled with a chilling light.


    "Your Majesty, could the Longevity Realm be..." Yi Yan asked, his brows furrowed in surprise.


    "Indeed. In the past, it was already rming that the Bliss Pure Land controlled some imperial dynasties. But now, it seems the Longevity Realm has outdone even them, controlling an entire heavenly dynasty! Impressive, truly impressive, Longevity Realm!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "The Longevity Realm has indeed hidden itself very deeply!" Shuijing nodded.


    "Your Majesty, when you mentioned Nie Fancheng repaying a favor, were you referring to the Phoenix n?" Zhao Suoxiang asked.


    "No, besides the Phoenix n, there is also the Northern World!" Zhong Shan replied seriously.


    "Oh?"


    "No character in the heavenly dynasties of the mortal world is simple. The sudden copse of the Dali Heavenly Dynasty has made it the focus of all. The three great heavenly dynasties will undoubtedly send their armies northward to fight for supremacy. This not only reveals the strength of the world''s various forces to us but also buys us time to deal with the southern imperial dynasties!" Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "What a profound scheme! Nie Fancheng''s sudden departure leaves a vast battlefield in the north, luring the three great heavenly dynasties into a struggle for supremacy. The world is the chessboard, and the three great heavenly dynasties are the chess pieces, with Nie Fancheng being the strategist. And our dynasty bes the observer, watching the strength of the world''s forces clearly. This is truly a grand gift from Nie Fancheng!" Shuijing marveled, shaking his head in admiration.


    "Moreover, Nie Fancheng knew that we nned to target the twenty-four imperial dynasties of the south. At this critical moment, he diverted the attention of the heavenly dynasties, allowing us to act more perfectly. Nie Fancheng is indeed as formidable as the ancient divine powers!" Yi Yan nodded.


    "Shui Wuhen, you and Liu Wushuang are responsible for gathering intelligence on the northern battlefield!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!"


    "Yi Yan, continue overseeing the Grand Whale Swallowing n!" Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!"


    "Shuijing, I have an important task for you!" Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    "Oh?" Shuijing, fanning himself, looked slightly puzzled.


    "The Xuanwu n of the South Sea!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "The Xuanwu n?"


    "Yes, Empress Bei once told me that when she was trapped in the Ice Seal Dynasty, she encountered the young master of the Xuanwu n. This person is very dissatisfied with the Xuanwu n''s dependence on the Longevity Realm. With the approaching end of Guishou''s life, the Xuanwu n is bound to be in turmoil, divided into factions supporting the young master and the supreme leader. You and Empress Bei will go to persuade the young master of the Xuanwu n and sign a contract with him," Zhong Shan said earnestly.


    "But what if Empress Bei, with her precious golden body, faces danger?" Shuijing asked, frowning.


    "If she insists on going, let her go. But you must ensure her safety at all costs!" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Yes!" Shuijing immediately responded.


    "Zhao Suoxiang, you will re-enter the Hundred Worlds Cave. This time, the cycle of a hundred lifetimes will be filled with chaotic worlds of ughter. Go and fully experience it, umte boundless killing intent, and strengthen yourself as quickly as possible!" Zhong Shan instructed Zhao Suoxiang.


    "Yes!"


    "Wang Ku, you are still recovering from your injuries. Take some time to rest and recuperate," Zhong Shan said to Wang Ku.


    "Yes!"


    Under Zhong Shan''s coordination, everything fell into ce.


    Three monthster, at arge mansion in the Daqin Heavenly Dynasty, countless Daqin soldiers guarded all sides, preventing civilians from approaching. The mansion''s que bore two golden characters, exuding a majestic aura.


    The L�� residence was under strict guard, yet it weed two extremely esteemed figures from Daqin: Chancellor Li Si and Xu Fu. Today seemed to be an extraordinarily important day, as all the servants in the L�� residence knelt on the ground. Li Si and Xu Fu proceeded to the central hall, the L�� Spring and Autumn Hall.


    The two exchanged nces, and Li Si said, "Let''s begin!"


    "Yes!" Xu Fu nodded in agreement.

 Chapter 684: The Rivers and Mountains

    <h4>Chapter 684: The Rivers and Mountains</h4>


    In the South Sea, at the Xuanwu Pce:


    Outside a massive pce, the young master of the Xuanwu n waited.


    "Boom~~~!"


    The grand doors suddenly opened, and Guishou emerged with a long sigh.


    "Supreme, have you recovered from your injuries?" the young master of the Xuanwu n, Guise, asked.


    "Yes, Guise, thank you for your concern during this time," Guishou said with a slight smile.


    The two walked to anotherfortable hall.


    "Supreme, what exactly happened? How did you get injured? It seems Lu Guitian is dead, and Wuhuan as well?" Guise asked, frowning.


    "They''re dead, sigh..." Guishou sighed deeply.


    He then recounted the entire situation from beginning to end. The young master Guise listened intently.


    "Zhong Shan? The Zhong Shan from the Dazhi Empire?" Guise asked, frowning.


    "Yes, it''s him. I must go to the Longevity Realm and report this to Raven Daojun. I wonder if his injuries have healed," Guishou said, frowning.


    "Report to Raven Daojun? Do we Xuanwu n really need to depend on the Longevity Realm?" A sh of resistance appeared in Guise''s eyes.


    "Sigh, you don''t understand the power of the Longevity Realm. With this chaotic era upon us, look at the Dali Heavenly Dynasty. Such a powerful dynasty copsed overnight. The chaos will engulf the entire world, and our Xuanwu n cannot escape it. If we don''t secure a path now, we''ll follow in Nie Fancheng''s footsteps sooner orter," Guishou sighed.


    "But can the Longevity Realm truly treat us sincerely? Every time there''s a battle, they send you out. If there''s a war, won''t they send the entire Xuanwu n? Are they really looking after us, or are they using us as cannon fodder?" A sh of unwillingness appeared in Guise''s eyes.


    "It won''t be like that. If I have to put in some effort, so be it. It''s all for the Xuanwu n!" Guishou shook his head.


    "But..."


    "No buts. Since we''ve already allied with the Longevity Realm, we can''t think of anything else!" Guishou said firmly.


    "Understood."


    "Has anyone visited the Xuanwu Pce recently?" Guishou suddenly looked at Guise.


    "Uh, yes," Guise nodded, a hint of concealment in his eyes.


    However, Guise knew that it was impossible to hide anything from the Supreme. After all, the Xuanwu n still had some loyal followers of Guishou.


    "Oh?"


    "The Dazhi Empire''s Shuijing came to seek an alliance," Guise said.


    "Shuijing? Zhong Shan? He came to seek an alliance?" Guishou''s eyes showed a hint of surprise.


    "Yes."


    "Hahahaha, he seeks an alliance? Just him?"


    "Supreme, the wolf n is the national beast of the Dazhi Empire."


    "So what if it''s the wolf n? In this chaotic world, an empire is bound to turn to dust!" Guishou shook his head.


    "But allying with the Dazhi Empire would give us a higher status than with the Longevity Realm, Supreme..."


    "Enough. Don''t even think about allying with the Dazhi Empire. The Xuanwu n must not be ruined in my hands. Has Zhong Shan been here? How many people?" Guishou looked at Guise.


    Guise looked at Guishou, a hint of helplessness in his eyes. He then lowered his head, a trace of concealment shing in his eyes, "Only Shuijing came."


    "Hmm! That''s good. The world is in chaos right now. Stay in the pce and do not go out. I''m heading to the Longevity Realm!" Guishou nodded.


    "Yes!"


    Guishou exited the grand hall and flew off into the distance. Watching Guishou''s departing figure, Guise''s eyes narrowed with determination��


    Dazhi Empire, Lingxiao Heavenly Court


    In a training hall, Zhong Shan slowly unfurled a scroll.


    This scroll was given to Zhong Shan by Wu Jiutian before she left, a gift from Nie Fancheng during his lifetime.


    Instinctively, Zhong Shan felt this was an extremely important item. The northern war and the Phoenix n order were not enough to make Zhong Shan personally go, but this item, now in his hands, was different.


    As he slowly opened the scroll, the first thing that caught Zhong Shan''s eye was a row of golden, majestic characters. This was Nie Fancheng''s handwriting, personally inscribed:


    <strong>Map of Rivers and Mountains!</strong>


    These five characters, "Map of Rivers and Mountains," conveyed the importance of this scroll!


    Nie Fancheng''s strongest treasure? The Map of Rivers and Mountains?


    The second line was an introduction:


    <i>The Map of Rivers and Mountains is a sage''s treasure in the Great Thousand World. Unfortunately, the sage perished, and the map shattered into pieces scattered across the world. One fragment entered this Small Thousand World and became the strongest treasure of sessive rulers. Only this fragment has been passed down through the ages. Theplete map is vast beyond measure. Even with one fragment, its power is less than one-billionth of the original. However, I have found the method the sage used to refine it. I once tried to reforge a new Map of Rivers and Mountains, but the requirements were too stringent to match the original fragment.</i>


    <i>The refinement of the Map of Rivers and Mountains requires heart, spirit, intention, thought, and method!</i>


    <i>I bequeath this fragment of the Map of Rivers and Mountains to you. Though it cannot match the original''s power, it is still a supreme treasure! May it dissolve the karma between us!</i>


    Following this was the method for refining the Map of Rivers and Mountains.


    Reading this information, Zhong Shan took a deep breath, his eyes filled with gravity.


    The Map of Rivers and Mountains? A sage''s treasure from the Great Thousand World? A sage''s fall? The map shattered?


    When he was on Earth, Zhong Shan had heard of the Map of Rivers and Mountains in mythology. Was that theplete map or just another fragment?


    A sage''s treasure, even a fragment, was far superior to any immortal artifact!


    Moreover, Nie Fancheng mentioned that he had tried to reforge the map, but the requirements were too demanding?


    At that moment, Zhong Shan understood that the self-destructed Map of Rivers and Mountains Nie Fancheng had was likely a replica, not the original fragment. Such a supreme treasure��who could bear to part with it?


    Looking at the refining method below, Zhong Shan furrowed his brows in deep thought. Indeed, the refinement was demanding, but within his capabilities. However, the requirements were extremely high, especially the ''Map Zhang,'' which was the most difficult to choose. Even if refined with the finest materials, it would be fragile!


    While Zhong Shan was extremely tempted by the Map of Rivers and Mountains'' refining method, he had to set it aside for the time being.


    He carefully put away the Map of Rivers and Mountains and slowly walked out of the hall.


    He arrived once more at Tianyuan Pavilion, where the world''s information was gathered again.


    "Shui Wuhen, how is the information gathering on the northern battlefield?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Shui Wuhen.


    "The three great heavenly dynasties have all sent troops north. The Dayong Heavenly Dynasty is led by Grand Marshal Huan Tulong, wielding a pair of copper maces and sweeping through everything in his path!"


    "What about the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty?"


    "Commander, Wang Chen," Shui Wuhen said, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Wang Chen?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    Wang Chen, also known as the renegade Zhong Shijiu, leading the northern expedition?


    "Yes, Wang Chenmands the army, and they are sweeping through the north with overwhelming force!" Shui Wuhen reported.


    Zhong Shan fell silent for a moment, and the others waited for his response.


    After some thought, Zhong Shan asked, "And what about Daqin?"


    "Daqin is led by Wu''ang Gong Bai Qi. This man exudes an intense killing intent, and everything about him is peculiar," Shui Wuhen said.


    "Oh?"


    "Bai Qi''s vehicle is a chariot, a bronze chariot pulled by thirteen bronze horses."


    "Bronze horses?" Zhong Shan queried.


    "Yes, bronze horses. They seem like living creatures but also appear to be cast from bronze. It''s very strange. The chariot is incredibly sturdy and has not sustained any damage along the way. It''s as if the chariot and horses are Bai Qi''s magical treasures, making them impossible to decipher," Shui Wuhen exined.


    "What about the battle results?" Zhong Shan asked after a moment of silence.


    "The war has just begun, but after the first battle, he captured a million prisoners and buried them alive on the spot," Shui Wuhen said, swallowing hard, his eyes reflecting disbelief.


    "Burying a million prisoners alive?" Zhong Shan''s lips curled into a peculiar smile.


    It was indeed Bai Qi''s style! The god of ughter, killing a million after the first battle. There would be many more battles and countless lives imed by Bai Qi.


    Sighing lightly, Zhong Shan looked at Shui Wuhen, "Continue to monitor."


    "Yes!"


    "Your Majesty, we have just received thetest news. Another event has urred in Daqin," Shui Wuhen said with a frown.


    "Oh?"


    "In a grand mansion in Daqin, the L�� residence, the city of Xianyang was under lockdown that day. Inside, Xu Fu uttered ''Soul, return to me,'' followed by an immense burst of golden light shooting into the sky. Countless gold bars, gold ingots, and gold bricks flew up and then scattered in all directions. The sky was filled with gold, an endless shower of gold covered the heavens. On that day, the holy city of Xianyang was enveloped in golden objects, a scene of immense grandeur. Simultaneously, a vast aura emanated from the L�� residence, causing countless civilians to suffocate and kneel in fear, much like what happened at Bai Qi''s residence," Shui Wuhen said with confusion.


    "A word worth a thousand gold, L�� Buwei?" Zhong Shan''s eyes widened in astonishment.


    "A word worth a thousand gold? L�� Buwei?" Yi Yan asked, puzzled, looking at Zhong Shan.


    On one hand, Yi Yan was curious about who L�� Buwei was, and on the other, he marveled at how much His Majesty seemed to know about Daqin. How could he identify a person so quickly?


    "L�� Buwei, the greatest merchant in the world, the overlord ofmerce!"


    Zhong Shan''s heart was filled with gravity. Who was L�� Buwei? In Earth''s history, there may have been countless great merchants, such as Shen Wansan, Tao Zhugong, Hu Xueyan, and others who were as wealthy as nations. Even though their wealth was envied by emperors, none couldpare to L�� Buwei in terms ofmercial prowess.


    L�� Buwei was the foremost merchant in history. While others traded goods, L�� Buwei traded kings.


    In history, only he had the audacity to invest in kings. While other merchants dealt in raremodities, L�� Buwei had princes and heirs like Ying Yiren, Ying Zheng, and Ziyang Dan as his assets.


    When these heirs ascended to the throne, he became the biggest winner. Merchants had a low social status, but L�� Buwei, through his merchant identity, achieved a position second only to the emperor in Daqin.


    Perhaps L�� Buwei''s reputation waster tarnished, but his "a word worth a thousand gold" and his "L��''s Spring and Autumn" could never be erased or reced.

 Chapter 685: The Unexpected Arrival of Zixun

    <h4>Chapter 685: The Unexpected Arrival of Zixun</h4>


    "A giant merchant of the world? The overlord ofmerce? Your Majesty, are you speaking of someone from tens of thousands of years ago?" Yi Yan asked.


    Zhong Shan shook his head, smiling but not answering.


    "This person must be closely monitored!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Shui Wuhen responded immediately.


    "The great Qin dynasty, home to so many heroes," Zhong Shan sighed softly.


    "Your Majesty, the first step of the Grand Whale Swallowing n, spreading the across the world, is nearlyplete. The various branches of the Da Rong Chamber of Commerce have been established in all cities of the twenty-four imperial dynasties. The has been cast!" Yi Yan reported.


    "Hmm, it''s good that the is cast. The product will be the ''Scenic Jade Discs,'' specially crafted by the Da Rong Chamber of Commerce. They allow people to enjoy countless scenic views from thefort of their homes, a rare and elegant item!" Zhong Shan said with a faint smile.


    "Scenic Jade Discs cost ten top-grade spirit stones to produce. What will the selling price be?"


    "The price will be set at one thousand top-grade spirit stones," Zhong Shan stated.


    "Understood!"


    "The second step, the multi-level marketing across the world, will now officially begin. The system will have nine levels and three tiers. Anyone who purchases a ''Scenic Jade Disc'' will be a primary member and can sell to others as their downline. For each sale, they will earn a fifteen percentmission. If they have two downlines, and those downlines recruit their own, one bes two, two be four, four be eight, and so on. In half a year, they could be earning ten thousand spirit stones a day. As the number of members increases, so does their level, and with each level, theirmission increases. Coupled with the cumtive number of sales, it will drive people mad with excitement," Zhong Shan exined, smiling.


    "Yes! Once entangled in this, there will be no escape!" Yi Yan nodded, impressed.


    "Hmm, remember, our goal is to undermine the dynasties, not to make money. Start with high-ranking officials and offer them sufficient profits," Zhong Shan emphasized again.


    "Understood!"


    "Also, hold frequent meetings and continuously instill hope in them to keep their passion alive!" Zhong Shan added.


    "Brainwashing?" Yi Yan chuckled.


    "Ah, well understood! Hahaha!" Zhong Shanughed heartily.


    "An item that costs ten spirit stones to produce can be sold for a thousand top-grade spirit stones? Won''t others be able to replicate it?" Shui Wuhen asked, somewhat puzzled.


    "Of course, it can be replicated, but the Scenic Jade Discs will only be avable for purchase at designated Da Rong Chamber of Commerce locations. There will be a rush to buy them, causing upheaval in the imperial dynasties," Yi Yan said confidently.


    "Ah!" Shui Wuhen''s eyes were filled with curiosity.


    Shui Wuhen didn''t fully understand the entire process of the Grand Whale Swallowing n, but he couldn''t imagine why people would spend so much money on what seemed like worthless items.


    Of course, Shui Wuhen didn''t ask further, as the results would soon be evident.


    "Reporting to Your Majesty~~!" a soft call came from outside Tianyuan Pavilion.


    Liu Wushuang, the chiefmander of the Dazhi Jinyiwei, had arrived.


    "Wushuang? Come in," Zhong Shan called out.


    "Yes!"


    Liu Wushuang quickly entered the room.


    "What happened?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    After all, no one was allowed to interrupt Zhong Shan''s meetings unless it was something important.


    "Your Majesty, a woman just broke into the pce, saying she wants to see you. Fearing that she might be someone you know, I didn''t make things too difficult for her and let her wait outside while I came to report," Liu Wushuang exined.


    "Oh? A woman? Someone familiar? Who is it?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly surprised.


    "Former elder of the Kaiyang Sect, Zixun!" Liu Wushuang replied.


    "Zixun?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    "Yes."


    Zixun, a former elder of the Kaiyang Sect, had a significant history with Zhong Shan. Before Zhong Shan joined the Kaiyang Sect, Zixun had been framed and subsequently shared a night with Zhong Shan, during which he obtained the "Red Luan Heavenly Scripture." During his second visit to the Kaiyang Sect, Zixun had defied opposition to grant him a position to serve in the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty. The third time they met, a remnant of a celestial being resembling Bao''er gave Zixun a rose. The fourth time was during thememoration of Gu Shentong, when Nu Qinghui intended to harm Zhong Shan, but Zixun intervened.


    Why has shee? Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan looked at the others and said, "You all may leave. Let her in."


    "Yes!" The others nodded and exited the room.


    Soon, Zixun walked in gracefully. Her purple silk robe entuated her perfect hourss figure. Her bare feet hovered an inch above the ground, adorned with an exquisite purple crystal anklet on her right foot. The long ribbons that draped around her slender waist added to her elegance. Although her neckline wasn''t low, it couldn''t conceal her ample bosom. Her hair was styled in a sophisticated updo, enhancing her regal and beautiful appearance.


    Gu Shentong and Nu Qinghui''s daughter in a past life? Nu Qinghui was no longer the same, but Zixun remained unchanged.


    She was still as beautiful and dignified as ever!


    Looking at Zixun, Zhong Shan felt a mix of reverence, gratitude, and a hint of an impulse.


    Zhong Shan stared at Zixun, and she stared back at him, a fleeting look of panic in her eyes.


    "Elder Zixun, what brings you here?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Out of principle, Zhong Shan maintained a respectful tone with Zixun.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Zixun bit her lip, aplex expression in her eyes, as if she had something to say but couldn''t.


    Zhong Shan didn''t rush her, patiently waiting. After a moment of silence, their eyes met, and Zixun blushed before regaining herposure.


    Zhong Shan continued to watch her, puzzled by her behavior.


    With a slight frown, Zixun finally spoke, "I ask you, do you remember the day outside Longmen Valley?"


    Longmen Valley? Zhong Shan''s heart tightened, then he became extremely surprised. Longmen Valley? The Dragon Gate Assembly? When he was eighty years old, he led his adopted sons to the Dragon Gate Assembly and encountered Zixun on the way back. Through a twist of fate, they shared a night together?


    Why is Zixun suddenly bringing up that day?


    After asking, Zixun''s expression became somewhat unnatural.


    "I remember it vividly, as if it happened yesterday," Zhong Shan replied truthfully.


    Realizing his words might be too forward, Zhong Shan added, "Apologies, I meant no disrespect."


    Zixun took a deep look at Zhong Shan, nodded, and said, "Hmm."


    "I ask you, you ruined my innocence. How do you n to make amends?" Zixun asked.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback. Why would Zixun ask such a question? It didn''t seem like her character, or maybe he didn''t know her well enough?


    However, Zhong Shan didn''t intend to evade the matter. Despite both of them being in a passive state at the time, it was he who ultimately took advantage. He knew he had to face it head-on and not shirk responsibility.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan said, "I am willing to take responsibility for my actions. What would you like me to do?"


    Zixun''s eyes softened slightly, seeing his sincerity. "I don''t need you to take responsibility for that night, but I do have a request," she said.


    "Please, tell me," Zhong Shan replied earnestly.


    "I need your help to resolve a matter that is of great importance to me," Zixun said, her voice steady but her eyes showing a hint of vulnerability.


    "Whatever it is, if it is within my power, I will help you," Zhong Shan promised.


    Zixun looked into his eyes, seeing the determination and sincerity. She took a deep breath and nodded. "Thank you, Zhong Shan," she said softly.


    "If you don''t mind, you can stay here. This can be your home from now on," Zhong Shan said sincerely after some thought.


    Despite having shared a night of passion, Zhong Shan''s feelings for Zixun didn''t extend beyond that fleeting moment. However, since she had be his woman, he didn''t want her to end up with someone else, even though his emotions weren''t deep.


    "My home from now on? Does that mean we will be Daopanions?" Zixun asked, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Daopanions? Yes, Daopanions!" Zhong Shan confirmed with a nod.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s affirmation, Zixun''s expression softened, but she frowned slightly. "Do you already have other Daopanions?"


    "Four," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    His four empresses were his Daopanions.


    Zixun''s brows furrowed, and she bit her lip. "I can''t ept you having other women. In the past, it didn''t matter, but once we be Daopanions, you can only have me!"


    Zixun''s demeanor was gentle, but her eyes radiated determination. Simr to Nu Qinghui in the past, who couldn''t ept Gu Shentong having other empresses, Zixun was resolute.


    "Impossible!" Zhong Shan replied decisively.


    It was naturally impossible. He couldn''t abandon Gan Bao''er, Tian Ling''er, Gu Qianyou, or Bei Qingsi. They were irreceable, and as long as Zhong Shan lived, no one could tear them apart.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s refusal, Zixun''s eyes showed a hint of panic. "If you let them go, I will be your woman for life, never regretting it!"


    After speaking, Zixun looked at Zhong Shan with a mix of urgency and hope.


    Shaking his head, Zhong Shan sighed. "I''m sorry, I can''t do that, and I never will."


    Zhong Shan''s straightforward rejection left Zixun''s eyes filled with a mix of sorrow, disbelief, and resentment.


    "Are you really that heartless?" she asked.


    "It''s not about being heartless. The bond between us is unbreakable. I am deeply grateful for your affection, but I must apologize," Zhong Shan said with a sigh.


    "Am I not beautiful enough?" Zixun asked, her voice tinged with a need for validation.


    "You are very beautiful, exceptionally so. Even my four empresses don''t match your perfection in appearance. But my love for them goes beyond looks," Zhong Shan exined.


    "You...!" Zixun''s eyes shed with anger.


    Zhong Shan remained silent, resolute in his stance.


    "I''vee to the wrong ce!" Zixun said with a hint of bitterness, turning to leave.


    Watching her departing figure, Zhong Shan felt a slight pang of regret but didn''t waver.


    Just as she reached the door, Zixun paused. Zhong Shan looked at her in surprise.


    Without turning back, Zixun said, "Nu Qinghui intends to harm you. Don''t fall into her hands."


    With that, Zixun stepped out of the hall and disappeared from Zhong Shan''s sight, leaving behind a lingering scent and a mncholic farewell.


    Watching her leave, Zhong Shan''s brows furrowed deeply.


    Why had Zixune so suddenly today? Why had she been so impulsive in expressing her love?


    Zhong Shan didn''t fully understand Zixun, but he knew she was very reserved. It was uncharacteristic of her to boldly confess her feelings like this. Something significant must have happened to push her to this point.


    Her final warning��Nu Qinghui intended to harm him. Had shee to save him by offering herself as his Daopanion, hoping to deter Nu Qinghui?


    "Unfortunately, you don''t understand me," Zhong Shan sighed softly.

 Chapter 686: Spreading Confucianism Across the World

    <h4>Chapter 686: Spreading Confucianism Across the World</h4>


    Zixun had left, and Zhong Shan sighed softly.


    Two dayster, Shuijing and Bei Qingsi returned.


    "How did it go?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at the two of them.


    "Guise was quite reasonable," Bei Qingsi said with a satisfied smile.


    "The initial contact was very fruitful. It seems it won''t be long before we fully persuade the young master of the Xuanwu n. Once he''s convinced, the Xuanwu n will be as good as ours," Shuijing confirmed with a nod.


    "I trust you with this matter," Zhong Shan said appreciatively.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Shuijing nodded.


    "You''ve worked hard. Take a rest for now."


    "Yes!" Shuijing nodded and left.


    Only Bei Qingsi and Zhong Shan remained.


    "Let''s go back to the pce," Zhong Shan said, taking Bei Qingsi''s hand.


    "Mm," Bei Qingsi blushed slightly as they walked back together.


    Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, Inside a Grand Hall


    Inside the hall stood four people: Kong Lietian, the current emperor of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty; Raven Daojun; Sora; and Guishou.


    "Your Majesty, should we begin now?" Sora asked, looking at Kong Lietian.


    "Yes, the n to spread Confucianism across the world will be your responsibility. Once the northern battlefield is settled, I want the world to know of the Confucian Dao. Establish Confucian academies across thend," Kong Lietian instructed solemnly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty, I will not disappoint you!" Sora nodded.


    "You may leave," Kong Lietian said.


    "Yes!" Sora immediately left.


    "Spreading Confucianism across the world? That''s quite ambitious. Do you intend to take over the entire world?" Raven Daojun said casually.


    "Everything must be done step by step. Doesn''t the Longevity Realm want the whole world?" Kong Lietian replied with a faint smile.


    "The Longevity Realm? Aren''t you also part of the Longevity Realm?" Raven Daojun remarked.


    "And isn''t the Longevity Realm part of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty?" Kong Lietian smiled back.


    Raven Daojun stared at Kong Lietian for a while before showing a peculiar smile and saying nothing more.


    Kong Lietian and Raven Daojun exchanged enigmatic nces.


    "Alright, Guishou, let''s hear from you," Raven Daojun suddenly looked at Guishou.


    Kong Lietian also turned his attention to Guishou.


    "That day, we brought Wu Jiutian back and stopped at the Wuchao for healing...," Guishou began recounting the events of the day they rescued Wu Jiutian.


    "Wait, you only confronted Wang Ku? And you managed to escape?" Kong Lietian suddenly stared at Guishou.


    Guishou frowned slightly. What did he mean by "only"? Wasn''t his effort significant?


    "Yes," Guishou replied, feeling slightly displeased.


    "How dare he deceive me?" Kong Lietian''s eyes turned cold.


    Evidently, at Phoenix Ind, Kong Lietian had thought Wang Ku was a peerless expert, only to realize it was merely a facade.


    "Deceive?" Raven Daojun asked, slightly puzzled.


    "Nothing."


    "The eight-tailed creature, do you recognize it?" Raven Daojun asked.


    "I''ve never heard of it. The Great Thousand World has countless beast ns. Who can know them all except for the sages?" Prince Lietian shook his head.


    "Recently, Zhong Shan sent an envoy to my Xuanwu Pce, trying to recruit the Xuanwu n..." Guishou continued his report.


    "Recruit? Recruit your Xuanwu n?" Kong Lietian asked in surprise.


    "Yes!" Guishou nodded.


    "What do you think?" Kong Lietian turned to Raven Daojun.


    Raven Daojun gave a cold smile. "Let him try to recruit."


    "Let him recruit?" Guishou''s eyes widened.


    "Yes, let you pretend to be recruited," Kong Lietian said, frowning at Guishou.


    "Pretend to be recruited? Feign eptance?" Guishou asked, puzzled.


    "Indeed. It seems the Longevity Realm still controls several imperial dynasties, right?" Kong Lietian looked at Raven Daojun.


    "That''s correct. We are nning to take action against the Dazhi Empire soon. Zhong Shan cannot be allowed to remain; he will be a significant threat sooner orter!" Raven Daojun said solemnly.


    "Zhong Shan is at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. He can leverage the power of the entire Dazhi Empire and has Emperor Xuanxu. Killing him won''t be easy," Kong Lietian said seriously.


    "To kill him, we will be well-prepared. Why, are you thinking of joining us?" Raven Daojun asked, looking at Kong Lietian.


    "Me? Heh, since you are already prepared, what difference does it make if I go or not? I haven''t secured my position in the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, the northern battlefield still requires my attention, and the n to spread Confucianism has just begun. I can''t afford to be distracted," Kong Lietian declined.


    "Very well then," Raven Daojun said, frowning slightly.


    "Good luck to you. May you seed in killing Zhong Shan!" Kong Lietian said with a sinister smile.


    "Hmm," Raven Daojun nodded.


    "Let''s go!" Raven Daojun said, looking at Guishou.


    "Yes!" Guishou responded.


    Three Months Later!


    In the grand hall of the Daqin Heavenly Dynasty.


    A new figure, dressed in extremely luxurious attire, had appeared in the hall.


    The man wore a splendid yellow robe adorned with unique patterns. His face was very ordinary, but he exuded an invisible aura of authority thatmanded respect. He stood at the first position on the right side of the hall.


    The first position on the left side was upied by Chancellor Li Si.


    This new figure''s status seemed to be on par with Li Si''s. He was L�� Buwei, the newly returned right chancellor of Daqin.


    Ying sat high above, in a position of irreceable authority within Daqin, inspiring awe in all who beheld him.


    "How is Bai Qi''s northern battlefield?" Ying asked.


    Chancellor Li Si immediately stepped forward. "Wuan Gong Bai Qi has been victorious, burying millions alive. The enemy flees at the mere mention of his name."


    "Hmm," Ying nodded, showing a measure of satisfaction.


    "Your Majesty!" Li Si bowed again.


    "Oh?"


    "Minister, I have received news that traces of Confucianism have reappeared in some western dynasties," Li Si said respectfully, his eyes shing with cold light.


    "Confucianism?" Ying sneered.


    "It is likely from the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, under its new emperor, Kong Lietian!" Li Si said calmly.


    "Kong Lietian? A descendant of the Kong family? He dares to spread Confucianism to this Small Thousand World! He certainly has a long reach!" Ying scoffed.


    "Your Majesty, should we re-enact the decree to burn books and bury Confucian schrs?" Li Si asked, looking at Ying.


    Li Si''s eyes shed with a hint of murder, not directed at Ying, but at Confucianism. Li Si hated Confucianism!


    "Let''s wait and see how capable this descendant of the Kong family truly is! Lietian? Hmph!" Ying said calmly.


    "Yes!" Li Si nodded respectfully and stepped back.


    "L�� Buwei, how is your recovery?" Ying asked, looking at L�� Buwei.


    "Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. I have currently recovered about ten percent of my strength," L�� Buwei replied respectfully.


    "Hmm, you are recovering rtively quickly," Ying nodded.


    "Your Majesty, although I have not been back for long, I have discovered something interesting!" L�� Buwei suddenly said with a smile.


    "Oh?"


    "The day before yesterday, while collecting information from around the world, I happened toe across amercial war drama called the ''Heaven Copse n.'' It''s very impressive. I wonder if Your Majesty is aware of it?" L�� Buwei asked with a faint smile.


    "Dazhi Empire, Zhong Shan?"


    "Yes, Zhong Shan. The Heaven Copse Five-Step n and the Heaven Copse Four Heavens are truly remarkable. I never expected anothermercial genius to emerge in the Divine Land after all these millennia. It''s been a long time since I''ve encountered someone like this," L�� Buwei remarked with a hint of admiration.


    "L�� Xiang, do you feel a sense ofpetition?" Li Si smiled.


    "Not really, just admiration. After learning about the Heaven Copse n, I analyzed various details about Zhong Shan yesterday. I found him to be quite a figure. Over the years, despite his weak cultivation, he has turned the Divine Land upside down," L�� Buwei said with a peculiar smile.


    "In terms ofmerce, there have been very few in the past ten thousand years who could catch L�� Xiang''s eye," Li Si said with a smile.


    "Have you met Zhong Shan? What kind of person is he?" L�� Buwei asked, staring at Li Si.


    "I visited the Dazhi Empire on the day they were promoted. The envoys from the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty were in awe of him. His use of the imperial art was masterful. Aside from his extremely poor innate talent, I haven''t found any faults," Li Si replied.


    "Innate talent? Hasn''t he only been cultivating for two hundred years? Poor innate talent?" L�� Buwei''s eyes narrowed, showing a hint of surprise.


    "That''s precisely Zhong Shan''s brilliance. Despite such poor innate talent, he has cultivated so quickly, which speaks volumes about his abilities," Li Si exined.


    "How poor is his innate talent?"


    "Rusty bronze-level innate talent. Ordinary people can only reach the Golden Core stage," Li Si said.


    "To be an emperor, he can''t be viewed as ordinary," L�� Buwei shook his head.


    "Yes. What interesting thing have you discovered?" Li Si asked again.


    "There may be another significantmercial upheaval in the south," L�� Buwei said confidently.


    "Oh?" Ying said calmly.


    "It must be initiated by Zhong Shan," L�� Buwei confirmed again.


    "L�� Xiang, you''re certain of a significantmercial upheaval in the south based on just a few days of information?" Li Si frowned.


    L�� Buwei nced at Li Si and said, "I know you are meticulous and seek evidence in everything. But this ismerce, and intuition is crucial. Based on the information from three months ago, I am certain there will be a tremendousmercial war in the south."


    "A tremendousmercial war?" Ying asked lightly.


    "Yes, I am confident thismercial war will be even more intense than the Heaven Copse n. Standing here, I can already feel the surging tide approaching!" L�� Buwei said with certainty.


    "Surging tide?" Ying lightly tapped the dragon throne.


    "Yes, it''s very big," L�� Buwei''s eyes focused.


    "Big? How big?" Li Si asked.


    "More than fifteen imperial dynasties, perhaps the entire southern imperial dynasties!" L�� Buwei said seriously.


    "It seems you have encountered an interesting opponent!" Ying said with a faint smile.


    "Opponent? Not necessarily. It depends on whether he canplete thismercial war. And there will definitely be other forces involved," L�� Buwei shook his head.


    "I am now curious to see what kind ofmercial war it will be!" Ying''s expression showed a hint of curiosity.


    "I will analyze the southernmercial war as quickly as possible and present the findings to Your Majesty!" L�� Buwei said earnestly.


    "Hmm!"

 Chapter 687: Defying the Monarch as a Minister

    <h4>Chapter 687: Defying the Monarch as a Minister</h4>


    In the Tianyuan Pavilion of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court:


    Zhong Shan sat behind a desk, Bei Qingsi standing beside him. In front of them stood Shuijing and a young man in white, the young master of the Xuanwu n, Guise.


    "Guise? This is our second meeting, isn''t it?" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Zhong Shan did not rise to warmly greet Guise, and Guise found this appropriate. If Zhong Shan had been overly enthusiastic, Guise would not havee. Zhong Shan''s proper attitude, neither too humble nor too domineering, was what Guise expected, avoiding the master-servant rtionship typical of the Longevity Realm.


    "Thest time we met, my Xuanwu n had just signed with the Yin Moon Dynasty. I had only been there a short time before your former dynasty used it as a stepping stone to destroy it. The memory is still fresh; how could I forget?" Guise said with a wry smile.


    "If the Yin Moon Dynasty hadn''t fallen, the Dazhi Empire wouldn''t have survived. If the Yin Moon Dynasty still existed, you and I wouldn''t be meeting today," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Indeed, fate has its ways," Guise responded with an air of nonchnce.


    "Since you''vee today, I assume you''ve made up your mind?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "I want to know what you can offer me. What will be the future status of the Xuanwu n? It is said that Emperor Zhong''s word is as good as gold, and I want to hear it from you," Guise demanded without hesitation.


    Looking at Guise, Zhong Shan and Shuijing exchanged a smile.


    "Very well, let''s make it clear today," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Alright."


    "The national beast of the Dazhi Empire is the wolf and will always be the wolf. The Xuanwu n, if it joins the Dazhi Empire, can sit at the same level as the Phoenix n. As long as the Xuanwu n remains loyal, I can promise that as long as I, Zhong Shan, am here, the Xuanwu n will always prosper," Zhong Shan said earnestly.


    Guise frowned and thought for a while.


    "What guarantee do you offer?" Guise asked after a moment.


    "This is my empress. You should be well aware that for her, I ventured into the trap set by the Longevity Realm without hesitation," Zhong Shan said, looking at Bei Qingsi beside him.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Bei Qingsi''s eyes softened, and a deep affection she couldn''t hide filled her gaze.


    "Hmm!" Guise nodded.


    "She will sign a contract with the Xuanwu n. Isn''t that enough?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Alright, I agree," Guise said, looking at Bei Qingsi before finally nodding.


    With Guise''s agreement, Zhong Shan smiled faintly and said, "Since you agree to join the Dazhi Empire, is there anything else you need to tell me?"


    "Well, as expected, Emperor Zhong is as shrewd as they say. The truth is, this time, I was sent by the Supreme to pretend to be recruited," Guise admitted with a smile.


    "You are mistaken. It wasn''t me who saw through your act; it was this gentleman beside me," Zhong Shan said, pointing at Shuijing.


    Looking at Shuijing in surprise, Guise sighed, "Mr. Shuijing is truly talented! Thinking back to our recent conversations, perhaps my decision was entirely guided by Mr. Shuijing."


    "It was your own decision, unrted to me. What Guishou thinks is unimportant; what matters is your firm decision to join the Dazhi Empire," Shuijing said, fanning himself.


    "So, what do we do next?" Guise asked, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "How many in the Xuanwu n are loyal to you?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "There is one-third who are loyal to me and do not want any ties with the Longevity Realm, another third who are die-hard loyalists to Guishou, and the final third are undecided," Guise thought for a moment and said.


    "Good. Then we''ll have Shuijing work on persuading those undecided Xuanwu. ce the ones loyal to you in key positions and keep the loyalists to Guishou under close watch," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Understood!"


    "Shuijing, you go and make the arrangements. A fierce battle is about to begin," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Shuijing nodded.


    The Next Day in the Study


    Yi Yan spoke the same words to Zhong Shan, "A fierce battle is about to begin!"


    "A fierce battle? The four great dynasties attacking?" Zhong Shan asked with a faint smile.


    "Indeed, these four great dynasties areunching a simultaneous campaign to attack Dazhi and vie for control of the world!" Yi Yan confirmed with a nod.


    "Ten years ago, I would have treated this matter with caution. But does Dazhi need to worry now?" Zhong Shan asked with disdain.


    "But the Longevity Realm''s influence is evident in this. These four great dynasties are clearly puppets of the Longevity Realm!" Yi Yan said with a frown.


    "The Longevity Realm? Their foundation runs deep! But don''t worry, in this chaotic era, even the most powerful forces will face obstacles. The Longevity Realm couldn''t hold me in the Frozen Dynasty, and they won''t hold me here in Dazhi. I can leverage the might of Dazhi. In the entire world, there are fewer than a handful who can truly harm me," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Hmm!"


    "Regarding the four great dynasties, I have already sent Shuijing to handle it. The Grand Whale Swallowing n must be expedited," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, the Grand Whale Swallowing n is proceeding very smoothly. No, it''s going extraordinarily well. In the past six months, high officials have be deeply entangled, and the people of various dynasties are obsessed with recruiting downlines. The nine-level, three-tier system has led to the highest earnings, with one chancellor of an imperial dynasty now earning a million top-grade spirit stones daily, equivalent to a billion low-grade spirit stones. A billion a day! Who can withstand such an ie? Even the firmest principles are being overwhelmed by this terrifying ie. The economies of the dynasties are beginning to show signs of disorder, though still hidden beneath the surface, it''s utterly insane. If unchecked, it will cause increasing damage," Yi Yan said with deep admiration.


    "Hmm, then speed up the process. We must act swiftly. I have a feeling someone has already seen through the Grand Whale Swallowing n," Zhong Shan said thoughtfully.


    "Oh? Who? That doesn''t seem possible," Yi Yan said, frowning.


    "The North."


    "Da Qin''s L�� Buwei?" Yi Yan asked, frowning.


    "Yes."


    "Rest assured, Your Majesty, I will expedite the process!" Yi Yan nodded.


    "Hmm. You and Shuijing should not concern yourselves with the Lingxiao Heavenly Court for now. Focus on managing the southern regions," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood!"


    To the East of Dazhi, in the Eastern Lin Dynasty, the Imperial Court


    "Your Majesty, Dazhi is powerful now. Our dynasty should not take risks by engaging them. If we go to war, we risk being targeted by neighboring dynasties. Should we fail to subdue Dazhi, we will face great peril," a minister said.


    "Does anyone have a differing opinion?" the Eastern Lin Emperor asked.


    "Your Majesty, Dazhi borders our dynasty. A conflict is inevitable sooner orter. The stronger Dazhi bes, the harder it will be to deal with them. We should join forces with the other dynasties now and suppress them while we can," another man, the crown prince, said.


    "The crown prince makes a valid point. Does anyone else wish to speak?" the Eastern Lin Emperor asked again.


    "Minister, support the Crown Prince. War!" "Minister, support the Chancellor. No war!" "Minister, support the Chancellor. No war!" "No war!" "No war!" ... The court became extremely strange. Except for a few, most ministers opposed going to war. The Eastern Lin Emperor''s eyes were full of confusion. What had happened to his ministers'' previous valiant spirit? Why had they be so cowardly?


    "My decision is made. War!" the Eastern Lin Emperor said coldly.


    "Your Majesty, reconsider!" the Chancellor said respectfully.


    "Your Majesty, reconsider!" the ministers echoed in unison.


    Defying the monarch? The Eastern Lin Emperor''s eyes were filled with coldness. Why were they so unwilling to go to war against Dazhi?


    "Hmph!" The Eastern Lin Emperor snorted coldly and left the hall.


    The court meeting ended inconclusively, and the ministers split into small factions, each returning to their residences. In the Chancellor''s residence, seven or eight officials had gathered.


    "Chancellor, shouldn''t we persuade the Emperor again? If war breaks out, our downlines will be affected, new members won''t join, and our ie will suffer. And if the war disrupts the supply of ''Scenic Jade Discs,'' it will be like cutting off our lifeline!" one official said anxiously.


    "Chancellor, why don''t we manufacture our own Scenic Jade Discs? It''s not difficult."


    "We can''t. The goods must be unique. If we start making counterfeits, it will lead to a flood of fakes, robbing us of our profits. Many people want to counterfeit, but who dares to do it openly? If someone does, it will be a threat to our earnings, and all members will unite against them. The Scenic Jade Discs have a unique anti-counterfeit enchantment. If counterfeits are detected, our downlines will break free from our control, and our ie will stop umting," the Chancellor exined.


    "Hmm, then our priority must be to minimize the impact of this war. It should cause no disruption if possible."


    "Agreed!"


    Thus, what was supposed to be a fierce court battle turned into a matter of protecting financial interests, bing a war with more bark than bite. Such a war had no real strength.


    In the other three directions around Dazhi, the situation was simr. Ministers opposed the war, defying their emperors, showing decreasing loyalty to their dynasties.


    However, under the strong insistence of the four emperors, the war began as scheduled. As the war started, ughtermenced on the borders of the Dazhi Empire.


    Zhong Shan assigned this war to Shuijing, while he remained in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, waiting for the mastermind, Raven Daojun, to make a move.


    As expected, after two months of war, the four great dynasties achieved nothing against Dazhi, failing to capture a single city. Finally, Raven Daojun could no longer sit still and personally led a group of Heavenly Extreme Realm experts towards the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Their arrival was grand,parable to the forces that confronted Nie Fancheng. There were seven of them: Raven Daojun, Nu Qinghui, Guishou, and four elders from the Longevity Realm.


    "Master, without the ughtering Immortal Sword, the three of us setting up the formation might be..." an elder said, frowning.


    "With the Execution and ughtering formations, having the Execution Immortal Sword is enough to set up the formation. I will personally take the southern position, recing the ughtering Immortal Sword!" Raven Daojun said seriously.


    "Yes!" the elder said no more.


    As the seven peerless experts approached the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, in the Longevity Hall:


    Zhong Shan sat on the dragon throne, eyes closed, fingers gently tapping the armrest. The court officials waited silently. Suddenly, a white figure shed in the center of the hall��Emperor Xuansha had arrived.


    "They''re here?" Zhong Shan opened his eyes and asked.


    "They''re here, seven Heavenly Extreme Realm experts," Emperor Xuansha nodded.

 Chapter 688: Using the Might of Dazhi to Counter the Toad鈥檚 Power

    <h4>Chapter 688: Using the Might of Dazhi to Counter the Toad''s Power</h4>


    To the south of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, seven figures suddenly appeared.


    Leading them was Raven Daojun, carrying arge gourd on his back. Next was Nu Qinghui, her unparalleled beauty hidden behind a veil. The old Guishou was also present, along with three other members of the Longevity Realm. These three had solemn expressions and wore green robes, following closely behind Raven Daojun. Thest member was a shirtless, muscr man.


    The shirtless man had disheveled hair and an extremely unkempt appearance, paired with an ugly face that repelled onlookers. He asionally nced at Nu Qinghui with fleeting lecherous eyes, but she ignored himpletely, causing him to raise his eyebrows in frustration.


    The seven stopped outside the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, observing the peculiar sight before them.


    From afar, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court radiated countless beams of golden light. Up close, it was shrouded in clouds and mist, giving it an ethereal, otherworldly appearance.


    "Is this the formation of the Netherworld?" one of the green-robed Heavenly Extreme experts behind Raven Daojun frowned.


    "No, it is a formation created by Nangong Sheng in the past," Raven Daojun''s eyes darkened.


    Amidst the clouds and mist, a giant gate carved from white jade stood prominently to the south. The gate bore threerge characters:


    <strong>Nantian Gate</strong> (Southern Heavenly Gate)!


    In front of the Nantian Gate stood arge number of Dazhi guards, keeping watch.


    "Who goes there? State your names!" a guard who appeared to be a general shouted from a distance.


    "Nantian Gate? Hah, they really think this is the Heavenly Court," one of the green-robed Heavenly Extreme experts sneered.


    "Raven Daojun, shall I test this so-called Heavenly Court?" the shirtless man asked rudely.


    Observing the peculiar changes to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Raven Daojun nodded. "Very well."


    Receiving Raven Daojun''s approval, the shirtless man''s face lit up with a pleased expression. He nced at Nu Qinghui and then stepped forward as if to impress her.


    "I asked you a question. Who are you?" the guard at the Nantian Gate shouted again.


    The shirtless man sneered. In a sh, he transformed into a gigantic toad, a thousand feet tall. The toad''s body was covered in toxic sores and was bright red. Itnded with a thud near the Nantian Gate, ring with its enormous eyes.


    "Croak, croak, croak~~~!"


    The toad''s belly made a deep, rumbling sound that seemed to resonate within the hearts of the guards.


    "Poof~~~!"


    Some of the weaker guards spat blood, overwhelmed by the sound.


    "Enemy attack~~~!"


    A general''s shout echoed as a rain of arrows shot out from the Nantian Gate, descending like a storm.


    "Thump, thump, thump~~~!"


    The arrows bounced off the massive toad''s body as if deflected by an invisible force.


    "Ah~~~!"


    Many guards were injured by the rebounding arrows.


    "By the Emperor''s decree, Nantian Gate guards are to withdraw to the Renzi Barracks!" A voice suddenly dered from an unknown location.


    "Yes!" The guards quickly obeyed, retreating.


    Raven Daojun narrowed his eyes. Zhong Shan was well prepared?


    "Croak, croak, croak~~~!"


    The gigantic toad''s belly continued to rumble, swellingrger with each croak. The atmosphere grew increasingly tense, as if a massive explosion could ur at any moment.


    Inside the Longevity Hall of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan sat on his dragon throne with his eyes closed, tapping the armrest with his fingers. The court officials waited in silence. Suddenly, a white figure shed in the center of the hall��Emperor Xuansha had arrived.


    "They''re here?" Zhong Shan opened his eyes and asked.


    "They''re here, seven Heavenly Extreme experts," Emperor Xuansha nodded.


    "Croak, croak, croak~~~!"


    The giant toad was gathering power, its belly swellingrger andrger. The toad, initially a thousand feet tall, had now grown to two thousand feet. Streams of energy were being drawn into its body.


    From the outside, one couldn''t see within, but from within, everything outside was visible.


    In front of the Longevity Hall, Zhong Shan stood with his ministers, looking towards the Nantian Gate in the distance.


    Those with lower cultivation couldn''t see clearly, but with Zhong Shan''s level of cultivation, he could clearly see the enormous toad outside the Nantian Gate. It was a massive, two-thousand-foot toad continuously gathering strength.


    Zhong Shan squinted his eyes and asked, "What is that creature?"


    "It''s the supreme of the toad n, Toad Lian. Rumor has it that two thousand years ago, he was killed by Raven Daojun of the Longevity Realm. Unexpectedly, he was subdued by the Longevity Realm," Emperor Xuansha exined seriously.


    "Toad Lian? Just a toad," Zhong Shan sneered.


    "The toad n is peculiar. Their physical strength iscking, but they excel in poison and sound attacks," Emperor Xuansha exined.


    "Sound attacks?"


    "Yes, the toad''s roar. It can cause powerful vibrations and the sound contains poison," Emperor Xuansha borated.


    "The sound contains poison?"


    "Croak, croak, croak~~~!"


    Toad Lian made a final preparation, his eyes turning blood-red. Suddenly, he opened his massive mouth, releasing all the umted energy.


    "Ribbit~~~!"


    A powerful spatial vibration sted towards the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    The sound was like a great bell, the toad''s roar echoing across the sky.


    In an instant, the clouds and mist surrounding the Lingxiao Heavenly Court trembled violently. The strong vibrations surged straight towards the depths of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Despite the outer formations weakening the force considerably, the sound waves still retained immense power. Countless low-cultivation citizens felt their eardrums burst, blood streaming from their ears. The powerful shockwaves continued, targeting the heart of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the Longevity Hall.


    "Ribbit~~~!"


    The roar was long and vast, shaking numerous mountain peaks. The entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court seemed to be undergoing an unprecedented massive earthquake, with the sky and earth both trembling.


    The powerful sound attack not only caused severe damage to the eardrums of the low-cultivation citizens but also left many with faces turning an eerie purple and ck, as if they were poisoned. The roar indeed contained strange, toxic frequencies.


    Behind Toad Lian, Raven Daojun sneered.


    In front of the Longevity Hall, Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold, and a surge of anger welled up within him.


    Perhaps drawn by Zhong Shan, the infinite golden fortune above began to churn. The sea of fortune clouds rolled, creating enormous waves of fortune.


    These waves of fortune then stirred the sea of merit clouds below, causing waves of merit to rise in response.


    As the two waves aligned, the golden dragon of fortune that had been coiling above moved.


    The dragon''s horns pierced the sky, drawing on the power of heaven and earth, harnessing the might of the Dazhi Empire. Suddenly, the golden dragon''s eyes opened, ring towards the Nantian Gate with blood-red eyes.


    The neen-wed golden dragon of fortune began to move, carrying immense fortune and merit, directing its force towards the Nantian Gate.


    Instinctively, Raven Daojun''s eyes narrowed as he sensed something amiss outside the Nantian Gate.


    "Croak, croak, croak~~~!"


    Toad Lian''s toxic sound waves continued to wreak havoc throughout the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Finally, the neen-wed golden dragon of fortune was enraged. Its neen ws grasped the sea of fortune clouds, its dragon whiskers danced, and its eyes red fiercely. The imposing dragon horns drew in lightning from the sky, absorbing it into the dragon''s head.


    Suddenly, the neen-wed golden dragon opened its massive mouth.


    "Roar~~~!"


    The neen-wed golden dragon let out a thunderous roar.


    The powerful dragon roar surged southward, creating overwhelming waves of spatial force directed at the Nantian Gate.


    The dragon''s roar was peculiar. Instead of shaking the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, it mysteriously stabilized it, halting the massive tremors. The citizens, instead of suffering further injuries, felt a warm energy entering their bodies, slowly neutralizing the poison and healing their eardrums.


    "Boom~~~!"


    The sound waves of the neen-wed golden dragon shed with Toad Lian''s toxic sound waves halfway, creating massive spatial fissures. The shockwaves, unaffected by the spatial tears, intertwined and collided, each force trying to push the other back.


    "Croak~~~!"


    "Roar~~~!"


    The two powerful sound waves shed furiously.


    Toad Lian''s body grew smaller with each croak, its previously gathered strength nearly exhausted. Its eyes, blood-red with strain, showed a hint of panic.


    Toad Lian''s sound attack was nearing its end, while the neen-wed golden dragon''s attack was just beginning.


    In the Longevity Hall, Zhong Shan suddenly raised his hand.


    "Citizens of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, raise your right hands!" Zhong Shanmanded loudly.


    The strangemand echoed throughout the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s voice, the citizens instinctively raised their right hands. As they did, they felt a sudden weakness, as if their strength was being drained.


    At this moment, the sea of fortune erupted with radiant golden light. The neen-wed golden dragon swelled, its body taut with power.


    "Roar~~~!"


    The neen-wed golden dragon''s roar suddenly amplified tenfold.


    "Boom~~~!"


    The point of collision between the two forces rapidly shot southward.


    A massive spatial rift followed the path of the sound waves.


    The powerful sound wave from the neen-wed golden dragon, carrying Toad Lian''s energy, surged towards the source of the croak, heading straight for Toad Lian.


    Even before the sound waves arrived, a powerful air current sted towards Toad Lian, creating a vast storm within the Nantian Gate.


    The other six Heavenly Extreme experts quickly dodged the oing force, but Toad Lian, locked in ce by the overwhelming impact, could only muster all its strength to resist.


    "Croak~~~!"


    Toad Lian''s croak abruptly stopped.


    "Boom~~~!"


    The sound wave from the golden dragon struck.


    With a thunderous crash, Toad Lian spewed blood from its seven orifices, its massive body sent flying a thousand miles before it finally came to a stop.


    "Poof~~~!"


    Toad Lian spat out a mouthful of blood, its internal organs severely injured, its spirit significantly weakened.

 Chapter 689: The Zhuxian Sword Array Traps the Heavenly Court

    <h4>Chapter 689: The Zhuxian Sword Array Traps the Heavenly Court</h4>


    With a roar from the neen-wed golden dragon of fortune, Toad Lian was hurled a thousand miles away.


    This was no ordinary dragon roar; it was the roar of an entire empire, the Dazhi Empire. For a mere toad to attempt to counter the might of a great empire was utterly impossible.


    This was the impact of a great force, the reason why emperors residing within their capitals receive the best protection. An emperor can always harness the power of their entire empire!


    After being thrown a thousand miles away, Toad Lian''s form came to a stop, and he spat a mouthful of blood. The violent shock had severely injured his internal organs, and blood flowed from his seven orifices.


    Slowly transforming back into human form, Toad Lian flew back, but he appeared much more weakened.


    "Too powerful. This was just the power borrowed from the people of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. If he borrowed the entire power of Dazhi, I can''t even imagine!" Toad Lian shuddered as he spoke to Raven Daojun.


    "If that''s the case, then Zhong Shan must not be left alive!" Raven Daojun''s eyes shed with a violent gleam.


    "Borrow the entire power of Dazhi? Zhong Shan wouldn''t dare. With the empire in turmoil, external threats to fend off, and internal affairs to manage, using the power of Dazhi now could very well ruin his empire," Nu Qinghui pondered aloud.


    Raven Daojun looked up at the clouds, his gaze piercing through to the neen-wed golden dragon above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    A fierce gaze shot towards the golden dragon, and the dragon''s eyes shed with a cold light.


    "Roar~~~!"


    The golden dragon roared again.


    In front of the Longevity Hall, Zhong Shan looked coldly into the distance and said in a deep voice, "Raven Daojun''s gaze can prate Nangong Sheng''s formation?"


    Indeed, as Zhong Shan spoke, Raven Daojun''s gaze pierced through the Nantian Gate, directly meeting Zhong Shan''s in front of the Longevity Hall. A fierce gaze from Raven Daojun shed with Zhong Shan''s.


    Raven Daojun was still the same as ever, but Zhong Shan was no longer the Zhong Shan of old. His cultivation had greatly improved, and with the support of Dazhi''s power, he could calmly meet Raven Daojun''s fierce gaze.


    "Raven Daojun, do you think you can kill me with just a few of you?" Zhong Shan said arrogantly.


    Though separated by tens of thousands of miles, Zhong Shan''s voice strangely reached outside the Nantian Gate, directly into the ears of the seven Heavenly Extreme experts.


    "Zhong Shan!" Raven Daojun said coldly.


    "You couldn''t keep me in the Frozen Dynasty. What can you do to me in my Dazhi''s domain? Hahaha!" Zhong Shanughed disdainfully.


    The faces of the three green-robed elders of the Longevity Realm darkened, but Raven Daojun remained expressionless, disying theposure befitting a leader of a sacrednd.


    "Among the world''s heroes, you are the only one I misjudged. But now I see you clearly. Today, I will kill you!" Raven Daojun said coldly.


    As Raven Daojun finished speaking, the three green-robed elders behind him seemed to receive an unspokenmand and stepped back slightly.


    "They''re about to act?" Emperor Xuansha said coldly in front of the Longevity Hall.


    At that moment, Raven Daojun made a gesture, and the mouth of the Zhuxian Gourd opened.


    With his index and middle fingers together, he pointed towards the Nantian Gate and shouted, "sh~~~!"


    Amand, and from the mouth of the Zhuxian Gourd, a white light shot out, transforming into a beam of light that flew straight towards the Longevity Hall.


    The white light shed by, too fast to see. It carved a spatial tear tens of thousands of miles long, and Nangong Sheng''s formation couldn''t stop it.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed as he watched the iing attack.


    "Everyone, stay calm!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    The ministers and soldiers, already steeled by Zhong Shan''s leadership, held their ground.


    "Prepare the countermeasure!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    Suddenly, a vast golden light erupted from the Longevity Hall, forming a barrier that absorbed the iing attack''s energy. The collision created shockwaves that trembled the air, but the barrier held firm.


    "Raven Daojun, you underestimate Dazhi!" Zhong Shan''s voice rang out powerfully.


    With a gesture, the golden dragon of fortune roared once more, and its ws struck down, dispersing the remnants of the attack.


    Raven Daojun''s face darkened. "Form the Zhuxian Sword Array!"


    Instantly, the three green-robed elders moved, positioning themselves around the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Each drew out a sword imbued with immense spiritual power, and a massive sword formation began to take shape, aiming to trap the entire court.


    "Emperor, the Zhuxian Sword Array!" Emperor Xuansha warned.


    "Let theme," Zhong Shan said calmly, his eyes full of resolve. "We''ll show them the true power of Dazhi."


    As the sword array closed in, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court braced for the ultimate confrontation.


    "Whoosh~~~!"


    In an instant, the white light appeared in front of the Longevity Hall, aiming directly at Zhong Shan''s forehead.


    It was so fast that even Zhong Shan barely had time to react. His eyes narrowed, and he let out a cold snort.


    "Hmph!"


    Suddenly, countless strands of fortune surrounded Zhong Shan, and a powerful imperial aura surged to meet the white light, resisting its advance. Although it couldn''tpletely stop the white light, it did manage to slow it down slightly.


    In that brief moment, Zhong Shan saw the object within the white light��it was a seven-inch sinister de of light,plete with eyes and eyebrows, giving it a bizarrely lifelike appearance.


    Just as the de was about to reach Zhong Shan, a powerful golden shield formed around him, not made of magic but of the potent imperial aura of Dazhi, harnessing the power of the empire to defend against the attack.


    "ng~~~!"


    The de of light didn''t strike the imperial shield but was instead caught between two white fingers.


    Emperor Xuansha had suddenly appeared in front of Zhong Shan, his robes fluttering. With his right hand''s index and middle fingers, he had caught the de of light, although the impact forced him back slightly. Nheless, he had sessfully intercepted the seemingly unstoppable attack.


    Outside the Nantian Gate, Raven Daojun''s pupils contracted in surprise as he looked at Emperor Xuansha.


    "Return, my precious~~~!"


    Raven Daojunmanded coldly, and the de of light glowed brightly, breaking free from Emperor Xuansha''s fingers and instantly shooting back into the Zhuxian Gourd.


    Emperor Xuansha and Raven Daojun faced each other from a great distance, their eyes locked in a serious gaze.


    Raven Daojun, still solemn, suddenly smiled coldly.


    "Zhuxian~~~!"


    A clear shout echoed from outside the eastern gate of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Luxian~~~!"


    Raven Daojun shouted.


    "Xianxian~~~!"


    A clear shout echoed from outside the western gate of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Juexian~~~!"


    A clear shout echoed from outside the northern gate of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    The three green-robed elders who had been standing behind Raven Daojun suddenly disappeared. Apparently, as the Zhuxian Gourd released its de, the three Heavenly Extreme experts had moved to their predetermined positions.


    With the four clear shouts, a towering purple sword rose in the east, reaching from the earth to the heavens. It unleashed boundless purple sword energy, crashing into Nangong Sheng''s cloud formation��the Zhuxian Sword!


    In the west, a towering green sword rose, simr to the one in the east, releasing vast sword energy��the Xianxian Sword. In the north, a ck sword rose, simr to the others, releasing fierce sword energy��the Juexian Sword.


    In the south, a red sword also rose, but it appeared ghostly, as if a phantom��the Luxian Sword.


    As the three supreme swords appeared, they tore through the space, shrouding the surroundings in ckness, isting the inner and outer realms. The powerful sword energy fiercely attacked the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    A destructive aura pressed down, threatening to destroy everything within the encirclement of the four swords, causing everyone''s hearts to tighten. It was as if a sharp sword hung over their heads, making it hard to breathe.


    "The Zhuxian Sword Array?" Emperor Xuansha''s eyes turned cold.


    As the Zhuxian Sword Array took shape, Zhong Shan stood firm, observing the unfolding situation.


    "Everyone, remain calm. This is a critical moment for Dazhi," Zhong Shan dered.


    His ministers and soldiers, already resolute under his leadership, steadied themselves.


    "Prepare our countermeasure," Zhong Shan ordered.


    Immediately, a vast golden light emanated from the Longevity Hall, forming a protective barrier that absorbed and dissipated the fierce sword energies from the Zhuxian Sword Array.


    Raven Daojun, observing from the distance, saw his attack being neutralized and sneered.


    "Zhong Shan, you may have stopped this, but the Zhuxian Sword Array will not be so easily defeated. Prepare yourself for the true might of the Longevity Realm!" Raven Daojun shouted.


    With the Zhuxian Sword Array now fully formed, the battle for the Lingxiao Heavenly Court had truly begun. The stakes were higher than ever, and Zhong Shan knew that only by harnessing the full power of Dazhi could they hope to withstand the impending assault.


    "Imperial Radiance!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    "Roar~~~!"


    The neen-wed golden dragon of fortune let out a tremendous roar, and golden light erupted from its body. The sea of fortune clouds shone brightly, drawing in the merit clouds, which emitted a yellow radiance. Thebined light spread in all directions, enveloping the entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Nangong Sheng''s formation, which had been on the verge of copse, was instantly reinforced by the endless golden and yellow light, stabilizing it. However, the formation still seemed to be shaking.


    "Lu Jianping!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Present!" The official overseeing the construction of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court stepped forward.


    "Draw on the power of the Nine Heavens Stars to stabilize the Lingxiao Heavenly Court!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Lu Jianping responded immediately.


    The Lingxiao Heavenly Court was designed to draw on the power of countless stars, and it could naturally harness their energy.


    With a wave of his hand, Lu Jianping activated a high tform, which shot out 108 beams of light in all directions, as if sending a signal to distant stars.


    As the 108 beams of light shot out, the entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court trembled briefly, then steadied, ceasing its shaking.


    "Boom~~~!"


    In the higher sky, countless clouds scattered, revealing 108 stars in the sky that suddenly became extremely bright. They sent down beams of starlight directly into the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    For a moment, the entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court was bathed in starlight. A vast amount of spiritual energy converged from all directions, filling the citizens of Dazhi with boundless confidence. The immense power of the stars continuously tempered the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Nangong Sheng''s formation was thoroughly stabilized. However, the clouds that had obscured the view were dispersed by the power of the stars, making the interior visible to the outside world.


    Thebined power of Dazhi''s fortune and the star energy sessfully held off the power of the Zhuxian Sword Array. Outside the formation, it was like the interior of a ck hole, filled with a pulling force and the howling of endless sword energy.


    Four Heavenly Extreme experts were hosting the Zhuxian Sword Array, demonstrating its formidable power.


    In the south, Raven Daojun coldly observed the now-stable Lingxiao Heavenly Court, a sh of anger crossing his eyes.


    "Raven Daojun, you can''t do anything to me. Get lost!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "Hahaha, can''t do anything to you?" Raven Daojunughed loudly, his eyes shing with intense killing intent.


    "Do you have some other trick up your sleeve?" Zhong Shan asked sternly.


    "To withstand an iplete Zhuxian Sword Array, that''s quite a feat. But what if your fortune decreases?" Raven Daojun sneered.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "I said before that I came here today to take your head! Since you''re so confident, let''s see how things turn out!" Raven Daojun sneered.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan snorted coldly.


    Raven Daojun looked at Guishou, who nodded and shot a beam of seven-colored light towards the Zhuxian Sword Array.


    At that moment, Nu Qinghui stared intently at the neen-wed golden dragon of fortune, her eyes filled with a mix ofplexity, determination, and coldness.

 Chapter 690: The Gathering of the Powerful Outside the Sword Formation

    <h4>Chapter 690: The Gathering of the Powerful Outside the Sword Formation</h4>


    To the east of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, in the Eastern Lin Dynasty, within the Prime Minister''s residence.


    A few officials were in deep discussion with the Prime Minister, having dismissed all the servants to ensure privacy.


    "Prime Minister, ever since the war began, my side business haspletely fallen apart. I used to make fifty thousand high-grade spirit stones daily, and now I''m down to less than five thousand. That''s a loss of forty-five thousand high-grade spirit stones every day!" one officialmented angrily.


    "Prime Minister, we are facing simr issues. More importantly, during wartime, every city is under strict lockdown, making it extremely difficult for our supplies to arrive on time, cutting down our daily ie significantly!" another official added anxiously.


    "So, what do you propose?" the Prime Minister asked calmly.


    "We should collectively petition the Emperor to cease the war and restore peace!" the official suggested.


    "You need to understand your roles as officials of the Eastern Lin Dynasty. You are here to serve the Emperor and share his burdens. If the Emperor is in favor of war, so should you!" the Prime Minister responded coldly.


    "Sries? What are those paltry sriespared to the Emperor''s orders that cut off our ie?" the official retorted in frustration.


    "Hmph!" The Prime Minister scoffed.


    "Do not mention petitioning again!" the Prime Minister ordered angrily.


    "Yes, sir!" The officials, though reluctant, could only nod in agreement.


    As the officials left the Prime Minister''s residence, they wore troubled expressions. These officials were now daring to challenge the Emperor, a dangerous sign indeed.


    Outside the residence, the officials gathered, their brows furrowed with concern.


    "Lord Zhang, what should we do? The Prime Minister won''t support us, and we have no other recourse!"


    "Hmph, the Prime Minister? His losses are even greater than ours, likely losing millions of high-grade spirit stones daily. He might not care about a day''s or two''s loss, but over time, he''ll be the one most desperate!" Lord Zhang sneered.


    "Ah, if not for this war, I could be earning sixty thousand high-grade spirit stones daily now!"


    "With such an ie, it wouldn''t be difficult to establish our own dynasty within a few years!" Lord Zhang remarked coldly.


    "Indeed!" The other ministers nodded in agreement.


    Their loyalty to the dynasty had now transformed into personal ambition!


    Lingxiao Heavenly Court had always been a highly sensitive area, with countless spies stationed there. The moment the Zhu Xian Sword Formation trapped Lingxiao Heavenly Court, news spread swiftly across thend.


    In the Great Qin Dynasty, at the court.


    "Your Majesty, this is Da Qin''smercial war, an unconventional form of economic sabotage against the dynasty. If executed well, we can seize all southern cities!" L�� Buwei exined to Ying.


    Clearly, L�� Buwei had meticulously organized the Great Whale Devouring n and presented it to Ying.


    "Within Great Qin, ban all such sales methods. Anyone who disobeys shall be executed!" Yingmanded.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" The ministers responded in unison.


    "Your Majesty, it is said that the Zhu Xian Sword Formation has trapped Lingxiao Heavenly Court for nearly a month now. I would like to go investigate and personally experience Da Qin''smercial war," L�� Buwei requested.


    After considering L�� Buwei for a moment, Ying nodded, "Very well, go and see for yourself."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" L�� Buwei immediately replied.


    "Summon Guiguzi!" Ying ordered.


    "Summon Guiguzi����������������������������������������������������!"


    The Feng Shui master of Great Qin, Guiguzi, was quickly brought forth. Guiguzi was a thin, dark-skinned man with sparse hair, whose appearance was somewhat unseemly.


    "Guiguzi pays respect to Your Majesty!"


    "Hmm. You will apany L�� Buwei to Da Qin and investigate the situation with the Feng Shui master Ni Pusa," Yingmanded.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Guiguzi responded immediately.


    In the Great Yong Dynasty, at the court.


    "King Taizong, King Zhantian, you will apany the Grand Elder to Da Qin," the Great Yong Emperor Gu Zheng ordered.


    "Yes!" Gu Taizong nodded in agreement.


    As the Zhu Xian Sword Formation trapped the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, news quickly spread to the various powers, prompting many to converge upon the Da Qin Dynasty.


    Ten dayster, numerous forces had gathered at a distance from the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, gazing at the towering Zhu Xian Sword Formation. The formation, enveloped in a pitch-ck atmosphere,pletely surrounded the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    In the sky, 108 stars shone brightly. The fact that the Zhu Xian swords were still in ce indicated that the battle within had yet to reach a conclusion.


    Da Qin Dynasty? Just an imperial dynasty, while the Longevity Realm was a sacrednd. The Realm Lord of the Longevity Realm, bringing the Zhu Xian Sword Formation, still hadn''t secured a quick victory?


    People grew increasingly curious about the strength of the Da Qin Dynasty. How could an imperial dynasty stand against a sacrednd?


    In a small valley some distance from the Zhu Xian Sword Formation, Zi Xun, dressed in purple, watched the distant formation with a hint of worry in her eyes.


    "N�� Qinghui, Gu Shentong is dead. Stop your foolish obsession. If you really dare to act, I will never forgive you!" Zi Xun murmured coldly.


    On a peak far from the Zhu Xian Sword Formation, the thin Feng Shui master Guiguzi studied the surrounding terrain, examining the Feng Shui dragon vein paths.


    Beside him, L�� Buwei, dressed in noble attire, held some letters while seven or eight scouts continuously brought in information from all directions.


    L�� Buwei squinted as he read the letters. After reading, a subtle, cold smile appeared on his lips.


    "Zhong Shan has cast quite the," L�� Buwei remarked, putting away the letters.


    "Prime Minister L��, I''vepleted my survey. This area features a centripetal dragon vein pattern, with the Lingxiao Heavenly Court being protected by the dragon veins of the surroundingnds. Should the Lingxiao Heavenly Court face a crisis, this Feng Shui formation will draw energy from the earth veins to strengthen the court. It appears that the Lingxiao Heavenly Court hasn''t suffered major damage, so there will likely be a standoff for some time," Guiguzi exined confidently.


    When it came to Feng Shui, Guiguzi was unmatched in confidence.


    "Hmm, there''s nothing more to see here. Let''s go and check on Ni Pusa," L�� Buwei suggested.


    "Ni Pusa? Isn''t Ni Pusa here? With the Lingxiao Heavenly Court under siege, would he really leave?" Guiguzi questioned incredulously.


    "Of course. My judgment has never been wrong," L�� Buwei asserted.


    "Regardless of where Ni Pusa went, he will surely return. If we leave and hees back, what then?" Guiguzi shook his head.


    Annoyed by Guiguzi''s defiance, L�� Buwei''s eyes narrowed as he red at Guiguzi. "So, you refuse to follow me?"


    "You have your views, and I have mine. The Emperor didn''t order me to obey you. Moreover, my status in Great Qin is not inferior to yours. Please mind your manners," Guiguzi replied, shaking his head.


    It was clear that Feng Shui masters held a unique pride. There were only a handful across thend, and all dynasties recognized their special status. Except for the rulers of dynasties, Feng Shui masters never bowed to anyone.


    "Hahaha, respect? Maybe your grandmaster deserves my respect, but you?" L�� Buwei disyed a peculiar smile.


    Respect? In Great Qin, only Ying and a few senior ministers dared to speak to L�� Buwei in such a manner. Those who had previously dared were long gone.


    "Hmph!" Guiguzi snorted coldly.


    "I won''t argue with you now. Otherwise, the court might use me of bullying the younger generation. Remember what you said today. When your grandmaster returns, let him speak to me!" L�� Buwei said coldly.


    With that, L�� Buwei flicked his sleeves and disappeared from Guiguzi''s sight.


    Watching L�� Buwei leave, Guiguzi raised an eyebrow but said nothing more. Instead, he turned his attention back to the enormous Zhu Xian Sword Formation and the surrounding Feng Shui patterns.


    Three dayster.


    In a valley some distance from the Zhu Xian Sword Formation, an old man leaning on a cane, with a stooped posture, examined the vast Feng Shui patterns before him.


    Beside him, the Great Yong Dynasty''s King Taizong and King Zhantian were scrutinizing various pieces of intelligence, their brows furrowed slightly.


    "Da Qin has actually deployed the recently subjugated Xuanwu n to the battlefield? And they''ve been assigned significant positions?" King Zhantian remarked, frowning at the information.


    "There might be more to this than meets the eye," King Taizong nodded.


    "This war also seems strange, as if Zhong Shan anticipated this situation and knew he couldn''tmand the army himself. All militarymand in Da Qin has fallen to Mister Shuijing," King Zhantian mused with a furrowed brow.


    "Mister Shuijing? Truly a genius. To calmly confront the four dynasties is remarkable. It''s a pity he almost served me!" King Taizong sighed lightly.


    "Indeed," King Zhantian nodded.


    "Elder Tian, have you discerned anything?" King Taizong asked, looking at the elder beside him.


    "Naturally, Ni Pusa''s Feng Shui formation, which draws upon the earth veins, is indeed formidable. Exining it to you would be futile, but I''ve discovered someone interesting," Elder Tian said calmly.


    "Oh?"


    "Aside from Ni Pusa, only five branches of Feng Shui practitioners exist in Shenzhou: Heaven, Earth, Human, God, and Ghost. I represent Heaven, and I have a secret method to sense other Feng Shui masters. Though I can''t discern much, I can tell if they exist. The Earth master vanished when Nie Fancheng died, and Shenxiu disappeared a few years ago. They are either dead or no longer in Shenzhou. Thus, the Heaven and Earth branches of Shenzhou have lost their inheritance," Elder Tian exined.


    "Mm!" The two kings remained silent, listening intently.


    "That leaves the Human and Ghost branches. The Human branch is in Taizong Dynasty, while Guiguzi, of the Ghost branch, is in Great Qin and not far from here," Elder Tian continued.


    "Guiguzi is here too?" King Taizong''s eyes brightened.


    "He''s in that direction!" Elder Tian pointed with his cane.


    The two kings looked in the indicated direction.


    After a moment of contemtion, King Taizong''s brow suddenly twitched. "Someone, investigate theings and goings in that direction. Find out who else is there, but be discreet!"


    "Yes, my lord!" Several subordinates immediately left to carry out the order.

 Chapter 691: The Rebellion of the Xuanwu Clan

    <h4>Chapter 691: The Rebellion of the Xuanwu n</h4>


    A monthter, L�� Buwei arrived at a forested area in the southwestern corner of Shenzhou, bordering the Taizong Dynasty.


    The endless mountains swayed, shrouded in mist, creating a serene and beautifulndscape. However, a vast area was currently enveloped in thick white fog, which stretched from the ground to the sky, exuding an eerie and mystical aura, continuously expanding and contracting.


    Many cultivators rushed towards the fog, but they were mysteriously thrown back out as soon as they entered. The cycle repeated endlessly, as if the fog possessed a strange ability that caused those who ventured in to be returned.


    Standing on a mountain peak, L�� Buwei extended his hand and pulled a cultivator from the distance towards him.


    The man, suddenly appearing before L�� Buwei, was initially startled and then angrily demanded, "Who are you?"


    L�� Buwei ignored him and ced a finger on the man''s forehead. Instantly, the man''s eyes became vacant.


    "What happened here?" L�� Buwei asked sternly.


    "We don''t know. Ten days ago, thick fog suddenly appeared at the entrance to the Longevity Realm. Anyone who enters is inexplicably turned back. It''s been ten days, and we can''t get in! Nor can anyone insidee out!" the dazed man replied.


    "Any theories? Or any sounds from within the fog?" L�� Buwei asked again.


    "None, no sounds at all!" the dazed man responded.


    "Useless!" L�� Buwei sneered.


    With a flick of his finger, the man''s forehead suddenly bore a gaping hole, and he fell dead off the cliff.


    Standing atop the mountain, L�� Buwei gazed at the massive area of white fog and chuckled softly. "A Feng Shui formation, indeed Ni Pusa''s handiwork. While Shen Ya Daojun besieges Lingxiao Heavenly Court, you send someone to probe the Longevity Realm. What a strategy! What audacity!"


    L�� Buwei did not enter the fog. There was no need to spoil such an interesting situation.


    Meanwhile, outside the Zhu Xian Sword Formation, in a forested area.


    In and scarred with spider-like cracks, dust billowed, and terrifying destruction rippled through the space. At the center, Great Qin''s Feng Shui master Guiguzi was pinned to arge boulder, his body riddled with cracks. Blood flowed from his wounds, and his eyes were wide open in disbelief.


    Nearby, Elder Tian of the Great Yong Dynasty observed coldly. King Taizong''s clothes were somewhat tattered, and King Zhantian''s body was covered in wounds, but he now held arge de, pinning Guiguzi to the boulder.


    "Damn it, this Feng Shui master was so hard to deal with! Nearly cost me my life!" King Zhantian cursed, ring at the dying Guiguzi.


    "You... Tian Lao, Gu Zhantian, Gu Taizong? You... Great Yong Dynasty?" Guiguzi struggled to speak, ring at the trio.


    "I killed you. What can you do about it?" King Zhantian sneered.


    "When my grandmaster returns, he will... avenge me!" Guiguzi said with great difficulty.


    "Avenge you? Hmph!" King Zhantian snorted coldly.


    With a final drag of his de, Guiguzi was split in half, his eyes wide open, dying with unresolved anger.


    "s, another branch of Shenzhou''s Feng Shui masters has perished!" Elder Tian sighed.


    Outside the Longevity Realm.


    L�� Buwei had been waiting for two days, his eyes narrowed as if he could see through the fog.


    Suddenly, his brow furrowed.


    At that moment, the entire foggy area was filled with dazzling five-colored divine light. It shot up to the heavens, enveloping the entire sky with its brilliance, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle.


    "Five-colored divine light? A master in the Longevity Realm can wield the five-colored divine light?" L�� Buwei''s brow arched in surprise.


    "Lord Skulldom, go����������������������������������������������������!"


    Amidst the thick fog, Ni Pusa''s urgent voice suddenly echoed.


    Then, two ck-robed figures shot out from the fog,pletely shrouded, their features indistinguishable.


    "Skeleton n?" L�� Buwei narrowed his eyes.


    Wang Kulu and Ni Pusa swiftly vanished, and no one from the Longevity Realm pursued them, seemingly allowing their departure.


    L�� Buwei watched this unfold, touching his left fist with his right palm, a cold smile ying on his lips. "This is getting more interesting. Five-colored divine light? A descendant of the Kong family? The Skeleton n from the underworld?"


    With a flicker, L�� Buwei disappeared as well.


    Inside the Zhu Xian Sword Formation.


    The vast sword formation continued to envelop the extensive area of Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The violent sword energy relentlessly battered the formation''s perimeter, but supported by fortune, merit, and the power of the stars, Lingxiao Heavenly Court remained unscathed.


    Over two months had passed. Zhong Shan sneered as he observed the outside world.


    "Shen Ya, is there any point to this?" Zhong Shanughed mockingly.


    Finally, after days of ignoring Zhong Shan, Shen Ya Daojun frowned again.


    It had been almost three months. Why hadn''t Da Qin''s fortune diminished at all? Something was very wrong.


    "Guishou, what''s going on?" Shen Ya Daojun turned to Guishou.


    "I don''t know. I followed the n! Our Xuanwu n, upon Da Qin''s invitation, participated in resisting the four dynasties and took many strategic positions. Once I give the signal, Guishou willmand the Xuanwu n to betray Da Qin!" Guishou''s eyes showed a trace of anxiety.


    "Guishou? The young master of the Xuanwu n?" Shen Ya Daojun frowned, his eyes betraying a hint of distrust.


    "Betrayal? They should have turned on them by now. It''s been nearly three months. With your Xuanwu n''s internal betrayal, the four dynasties should be reporting continuous victories, advancing into Da Qin territory, and Da Qin''s fortune should be greatly diminished. But look at Da Qin''s fortune, does it seem any less?" Toad Lai mocked.


    "It can''t be wrong. Guishou, under themand of our leader, is surely heavily damaging Da Qin''s army!" Guishou insisted.


    "Why don''t you go check?" Shen Ya Daojun suggested, frowning.


    "And leave here...?" Guishou hesitated.


    "Toad Lai''s wounds should be almost healed. He can take your ce for a while. Go and return quickly!" Shen Ya Daojun ordered.


    "Yes!"


    Just as Guishou was about to leave, Zhong Shan, standing in front of the Longevity Hall, suddenly spoke.


    "Shen Ya, Guishou, are you waiting for my fortune to diminish?" Zhong Shan mocked.


    Hearing Zhong Shan, Shen Ya''s pupils contracted, and Guishou halted.


    "Guishou, no need to go. It won''t make a difference. Let me show you someone," Zhong Shan said, smiling.


    At that moment, a white-robed figure slowly emerged from the Longevity Hall.


    "Guishou����������������������������������������������������!"


    Guishou called out in disbelief.


    The person emerging was none other than the young master of the Xuanwu n, Guishou.


    Though Guishou couldn''t see from such a distance, Emperor Xian had deliberately projected the distant scene before Guishou.


    "You don''t need to go, Supreme," Guishou sighed slightly.


    "What? What do you mean?" Guishou''s eyes narrowed.


    "The Xuanwu within Da Qin''s army did not betray us. Instead, the Xuanwu hidden within the four imperial armies should have turned against them by now. The four imperial armies must be in disarray, facing defeat. Da Qin''s fortune will not diminish; it will only increase!" Guishou shook his head.


    Upon hearing Guishou''s words, the faces of the celestial realm experts outside changed simultaneously. Shen Ya Daojun''s face darkened with rage as he stared at Guishou, his eyes filled with murderous intent.


    Guishou was equally furious. "You insolent brat! How dare you defy me? Who is the true supreme leader of the Xuanwu n? I am still here, and you dare to usurp my position? Defying the supreme leader warrants thebined wrath of the entire Xuanwu n. Don''t you know that?" Guishou roared in anger.


    Guishou''s expression grew tense.


    Zhong Shan patted Guishou''s shoulder and looked at Guishou outside the Southern Heaven Gate. "Supreme leader? After today, you will no longer be the supreme leader of the Xuanwu n!"


    Zhong Shan''s sudden words left those outside the Southern Heaven Gate slightly stunned.


    "What do you mean?" Guishou frowned.


    Guishou hadn''t noticed anything unusual, but Shen Ya Daojun had. He widened his eyes in realization.


    "How dare you!"


    With a furious roar, a powerful murderous aura surged from Shen Ya Daojun''s chest. A cloud of ck smoke suddenly appeared and dispersed, causing Shen Ya Daojun to dodge aside. However, the other three were not as fortunate.


    Suddenly, N�� Qinghui, Guishou, and Toad Lai''s expressions became dazed.


    For some reason, N�� Qinghui suddenly snapped out of it.


    "Heavenly demon?" N�� Qinghui eximed in shock.


    Heavenly demon? Zhong Shan could actually enve a heavenly demon? N�� Qinghui''s eyes shed with horror.


    "Rumble����������������������������������������������������!"


    Above Guishou''s head, a mass of lightning suddenly erupted. The infinite thunderclouds burst forth, and as countless sword energies entered, the thunderclouds only grewrger and more terrifying, spewing bolts of lightning.


    Shen Ya Daojun struck Guishou''s body with a palm, snapping him out of his daze. However, the thunderclouds above seemed to fixate on him, causing Guishou''s face to change drastically.


    "Damn it, damn it��������������������������������!"


    Guishou yelled in Guishou''s direction, then quickly dashed out of the Zhu Xian Sword Formation. Otherwise, the stimtion from the formation would make the thunderclouds even more rampant!


    Toad Lai, who was still under the heavenly demon''s influence, had not yet reached the ninth level of the celestial realm, so the heavenly demon''s allure couldn''t summon the heavenly tribtion.


    In a dazed state, Toad Lai''s face turned red and took on a debased expression.


    "Shen Ya Daojun, if you give me N�� Qinghui, hehehe, I will obey you from now on! Hahaha!" Toad Lai said lewdly in his daze.


    N�� Qinghui''s eyes shed with disgust upon hearing Toad Lai''s vulgar words.


    Shen Ya Daojun frowned and looked at Toad Lai, striking his chest with a palm.


    "Poof����������������������������������!"


    The unlucky Toad Lai''s energy became chaotic from the blow, causing him to spit out a mouthful of blood and suddenly wake up.

 Chapter 692: Regicide

    <h4>Chapter 692: Regicide</h4>


    In the Eastern Lin Dynasty, east of the Da Qin Empire, over two months had passed, and their efforts to attack Da Qin had beenpletely ineffective.


    In the Prime Minister''s residence, a few officials surrounded the Prime Minister.


    "Prime Minister, we just received news from the front lines. Our army has suffered a crushing defeat. When will this end?"


    "Prime Minister, it''s been over two months. We''ve lost too much. We can''t go on like this any longer, we simply can''t!" one official eximed angrily.


    The Prime Minister remained silent for a moment before speaking sternly, "Are spirit stones such a small matter that it makes you panic like this? Have you forgotten you are officials of the Eastern Lin Dynasty?"


    "Small matter? Prime Minister, think about it. Is it really a small matter? Not just for me, but for you as well. You''re a level seven member, making nearly a million high-grade spirit stones daily before the war. That''s equivalent to ten million low-grade spirit stones a day. In these seventy-plus days, if there had been no war, let''s not talk about the extra high-grade spirit stones you could have earned. You would have made over seven hundred million low-grade spirit stones in just over two months. Seven hundred million, Prime Minister, is that a small matter?" the official retorted.


    "Yes, and considering the potential for even greater development and umtion over these days, Prime Minister, you''ve probably lost at least a billion low-grade spirit stones. A billion! Think about how much you could do with that amount," the official added sincerely.


    "But as ministers of the Eastern Lin Dynasty, we must be loyal to our country," the Prime Minister''s tone softened slightly.


    "Loyalty? You treat the emperor like a father, but how does he treat you? Like grass? Like dog shit?" The official, now frantic, blurted out obscenities.


    "Bold words!" the Prime Minister red.


    However, the other officials had already lost their loyalty to the emperor. Whoever blocked their path to wealth was their enemy.


    As the Prime Minister and the officials were in heated discussion, a loud voice suddenly came from outside, "Master!"


    "What is it?" The Prime Minister, already enraged, shouted back.


    "Mr. Tie and a friend of his seek an audience!" the servant called out.


    "Mr. Tie?" The officials'' expressions changed.


    "Quick, invite them in!" one of the officials interrupted the Prime Minister.


    "Bring them in!" the Prime Ministermanded.


    "Yes, sir!"


    Soon, a servant led two people into the hall. If Zhong Shan were present, he would immediately recognize one of them as Tie Xue, a subordinate of Yi Yan, and the other as King Fenghuang, Wu Luo, who had recently taken Zhong Shan to the Da Li Dynasty.


    "Mr. Tie, please take the main seat!" the officials quickly ushered them in.


    "Please," the Prime Minister also said promptly.


    "Sorry to trouble you all. This is my friend; you can call him Mr. Wu," Tie Xue said as he took the main seat without hesitation.


    "A friend of Mr. Tie is our friend as well. From now on, Mr. Wu is our friend too!" the officials quickly agreed.


    A trace of a knowing smile shed in Tie Xue''s eyes.


    "May I ask what brings Mr. Tie here today?" the Prime Minister inquired.


    "Hmm, I''vee with good news for all of you today!" Tie Xue smiled.


    "Oh?"


    "The merchant guild has decided to promote you, Prime Minister, to an eighth-level member starting today. As for the rest of you, if each of you can bring in three hundred new second-level members, you will be promoted to seventh-level members!" Tie Xue announced.


    Upon hearing Tie Xue''s words, a surge of excitement rushed through the officials, making their eyes turn red with enthusiasm.


    "Is it true?" one official asked excitedly.


    Advancing by one level would bring immense profits��at least double the current amount.


    "Of course it''s true! However, it''s been over two months without any progress. We can''t cultivate new downlines, and our goods can''t be transported. Can''t you think of a solution?" Tie Xue asked.


    "A solution? We''ve tried, but what can we do?" one official sighed.


    "You must understand, every day the war continues, we lose a mountain of spirit stones. With spirit stones, we can do anything. Such an amount, forgive me for being blunt, but don''t be offended," Tie Xue paused.


    "Please speak, Mr. Tie. Whatever you say will remain between us," an official assured.


    "In six months, with such an umtion of spirit stones, you''ll have enough to live in luxury for generations. You could even establish your own dynasty," Tie Xue said, his tone enticing.


    "Establish our own dynasty?" The officials'' eyes widened.


    "You''ve all reached your current positions due to your talents. Being ministers is only because youcked the opportunity and resources. With enough spirit stones, starting your own dynasty isn''t difficult. At the very least, you could establish a kingdom. The fortune of a king isn''t less than what you currently have. If you aim higher, establishing an empire is within reach. You''ve been in government for years; you know all the intricacies. Who wouldn''t want to achieve great things? As a ruler, even if you can''t be immortal, your name will be etched in history," Tie Xue continued to entice.


    Listening to Tie Xue, the officials'' faces grew more flushed, their eyes filled with excitement and greed.


    "But..." the Prime Minister hesitated.


    "But you can''t leave now because all your downlines are here. If the war continues, how can you gather spirit stones? How can you establish a dynasty? You need to stabilize your source of ie. But staying here means the Eastern Lin Emperor will cut off your financial path. What will you do?" Tie Xue asked.


    "What should we do?"


    The beautiful future was being strangled by the Eastern Lin Emperor, trapping them in an inescapable situation.


    "If the Eastern Lin Emperor were gone, who could stop you? Without the Eastern Lin Dynasty, couldn''t you establish your dynasties? You could be emperors and continue amassing wealth from the world," Tie Xue tempted.


    As he spoke, the officials fell silent, their faces turning pale as they stared at Tie Xue, understanding dawning on them.


    Tie Xue waited quietly, giving them time to think.


    Finally, one official, having figured it out, said with a glint in his eye, "Regicide?"


    Everyone looked at him. Then their expressions shifted, and they all turned to the Prime Minister.


    The Prime Minister''s face alternated between red and white, clearly tempted but unwilling to act.


    "Prime Minister, you will be an eighth-level member, earning countless spirit stones daily. If you agree, I will honor you as emperor!" an official dered.


    "We will also honor you as emperor," the other officials said, bowing.


    Seeing the officials'' eagerness, the Prime Minister''s eyes flickered. After a moment of hesitation, he finally asked, "Who can kill him?"


    With that question, he severed hisst shred of loyalty to the emperor.


    "My friend here, Mr. Wu, is actually an imperial-level powerhouse. While assassinating the Eastern Lin Emperor alone would be impossible due to the protection of the empire''s fortune, with your assistance, we could overthrow the regime tomorrow!" Tie Xue added fuel to the fire at the opportune moment.


    Three dayster, in the Eastern Lin Dynasty, the Prime Minister celebrated his birthday with a banquet in a tranquil valley outside the city, inviting all the officials and the Eastern Lin Emperor. During the banquet, the Prime Minister first poisoned the Eastern Lin Emperor and then activated a grand formation to trap the officials. Finally, the ministers collectively rebelled against the emperor. Caught off guard, the Eastern Lin Emperor struggled for two hours, killing half of the officials before being in in the Prime Minister''s residence!


    The Eastern Lin Dynasty fell into chaos and copsed on the same day!


    Outside the Zhu Xian Sword Formation, countless powerful individuals looked up at the sky.


    Over two months had passed, and the experts from the Longevity Realm still hadn''t defeated the Da Qin Empire? Just how strong was the Da Qin Empire?


    As people spected, someone suddenly flew out from the Zhu Xian Sword Formation.


    "Someone''sing out!"


    "That''s Guishou! The supreme leader of the Xuanwu n, Guishou!"


    "I saw hime with Shen Ya Daojun and a giant toad. Why is he out here?"


    "Heavenly tribtion? Is he undergoing a tribtion?"


    "The Longevity Realm sent seven experts, and now there are only six left?"


    People discussed fervently. Despite the two-month wait, their anticipation had only grown. As soon as Guishou emerged, he quickly fled. Only a few followed him, while most continued watching the Zhu Xian Sword Formation.


    Inside the formation, the toad, still affected by the heavenly demon, was awakened by a palm strike from Shen Ya Daojun but looked more weakened than before, showing the severe damage caused by the heavenly demon.


    "Shen Ya Daojun, what should we do?" The toad asked, panic shing in his eyes.


    "This kind of low-level heavenly demon doesn''t dare enter the Zhu Xian Sword Formation. The other three directions are secure, so the demon can only break through from the south!" Shen Ya Daojun said solemnly.


    The toad quickly hid behind Shen Ya Daojun, the memory of the heavenly demon''s invasion still fresh.


    At that moment, the sea of fortune above Zhong Shan suddenly expanded, umting more and more powerful fortune.


    "Impossible! In just over two months, the four imperial dynasties have fallen? Impossible!" Shen Ya Daojun eximed in shock.


    For the first time, Shen Ya Daojun showed such an expression of surprise. The massive increase in the sea of fortune indicated that a cmity had befallen the four imperial dynasties, causing a convergence of fortune. The terrifying golden light shot up to the sky��how could this be? Despite having trapped Zhong Shan, why was the Da Qin Empire still so strong? Two and a half months, and the four imperial dynasties were defeated?


    It was no wonder Shen Ya Daojun was shocked. Anyone witnessing this scene would be astonished. The immense increase in fortune, the neen-wed fortune golden dragon bing thicker and stronger, showed the rising power of the Da Qin Empire!


    Looking up, Zhong Shan saw the endless fortune converging and smiled with satisfaction.


    "Their destruction came just in time, hahaha����������������������������������������������"


    Shen Ya Daojun''s face turned ashen. N�� Qinghui''s beautiful eyes shimmered with determination.


    Zhong Shan stoppedughing and suddenly looked coldly at Shen Ya Daojun. "It''s been over two months. Now, it''s my turn to counterattack!"


    "Roar����������������������������������������������������������" The fortune golden dragon roared in agreement.

 Chapter 693: The Sharp Zhong Shan

    <h4>Chapter 693: The Sharp Zhong Shan</h4>


    "Roar��������������������������������������������������������!" The fortune golden dragon echoed with a thunderous roar.


    The entire dragon body suddenly grew more than twice its original size, radiating an intense golden light. The immense aura caused the surrounding formation to expand, pushing countless sword energies outward.


    Golden light pierced in all directions, even breaking through the Zhu Xian Sword Formation from the south.


    "That''s the light of fortune! The Zhu Xian Sword Formation can''t subdue the Lingxiao Heavenly Court?" a powerful voice eximed.


    "Da Qin Empire? Is it truly so strong? If it''s this powerful as an empire, what will it be like when it bes a heavenly dynasty��invincible?"


    "I must participate in the next Da Qin imperial examination!"


    Countless strong individuals discussed fervently. Meanwhile, inside the formation, the golden dragon of fortune descended from the sky.


    Even without the fortune golden dragon, the sea of fortune alone was enough to support Da Qin in resisting the Zhu Xian Sword Formation! The immense fortune golden dragon descended directly toward Zhong Shan.


    Seeing this, Shen Ya Daojun''s pupils contracted.


    "Roar��������������������������������������������������������!"


    With another dragon roar, the massive fortune golden dragon shrank rapidly and entered Zhong Shan''s body. Instantly, Zhong Shan was enveloped in endless golden light, making him resemble a giant sun.


    Above the golden light, a colossal dragon head gradually appeared, the head of the neen-wed fortune golden dragon, surveying the world with imperial majesty. A vast emperor''s aura radiated into the hearts of all subjects.


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor����������������������������������������������"


    The subjects suddenly knelt, shouting their praises in unison.


    "A true dragon protecting him?" N�� Qinghui raised an eyebrow.


    "Shen Ya Daojun, what do we do now? Zhong Shan is protected by a true dragon. Da Qin reportedly has other celestial realm experts, and the Zhu Xian Sword Formation can''t deal with him. He also has Emperor Xian. We''re only three people now. What do we do?" Toad Lai asked anxiously.


    "The Zhu Xian Sword Formation is meaningless now!" N�� Qinghui nodded.


    "Withdraw the Zhu Xian Sword Formation and follow me to kill Zhong Shan!" Shen Ya Daojunmanded.


    Shen Ya Daojun''s voice echoed through the formation, ensuring that even across tens of thousands of miles, the other three celestial realm experts could hear him.


    Thismand also reached those outside the sword formation.


    "Withdraw the Zhu Xian Sword Formation? Does that mean the Zhu Xian Sword Formation from the Longevity Realm also can''t deal with Zhong Shan?" People spected.


    In front of the Longevity Hall, Zhong Shan, protected by the true dragon, said in a deep voice, "Emperor Xian, begin the ughter!"


    "Yes!" Emperor Xian nodded.


    At the moment Zhong Shan spoke, Shen Ya Daojun realized something was wrong.


    Sure enough, as the Zhu Xian Sword Formation was being withdrawn, Emperor Xian vanished from the front of the Longevity Hall.


    "Damn!" Shen Ya Daojun''s eyes narrowed.


    In an instant, the Decapitating Immortal Gourd unleashed its power again. A beam of white light shot from the gourd with unstoppable force, heading straight for Zhong Shan.


    In Shen Ya Daojun''s view, his decapitating de was unbeatable, especially when he chanted the incantation. Two months ago, not even Emperor Xian could block it. Who could stop it? Zhong Shan certainly couldn''t. If Emperor Xian went to kill hisrades from the Longevity Realm, he would have no choice but to save Zhong Shan!


    s, the world is full of unexpected twists and turns. Emperor Xuan Sha did not return as anticipated. Instead of evading, Zhong Shan sprang forward, rushing headlong towards the Celestial yer Flying de.


    Seeing Zhong Shan charge towards the deadly de, Daoist Crow instinctively sensed something was amiss. However, unable to pinpoint the problem, a sh of ruthlessness crossed his eyes. "If you wish to die, then die you shall!"


    In an instant, the Celestial yer Flying de reached Zhong Shan, speeding towards him like a streak of light, leaving a trail of spatial rupture in its wake.


    As it neared Zhong Shan, Daoist Crow stared intently, confusion flickering in his eyes. What is he trying to do?


    "Swish~~~!"


    The de was upon Zhong Shan, too close to dodge, no escape possible. The protective golden dragon of fortune did not seem to react defensively. The ominous feeling in Daoist Crow''s heart grew stronger. Despite his confusion, it was toote��the Celestial yer Flying de had reached Zhong Shan, aiming straight for his forehead.


    "Swish!"


    A bizarre sound echoed in Zhong Shan''s mind. Everyone watched in stunned silence.


    The toad Lei widened his eyes and gaped, searching for the de. Where did it go?


    The long spatial rupture quickly mended itself, but the seven-inch-long Celestial yer Flying de had vanished. It was nowhere to be seen.


    Daoist Crow''s face turned red with frustration. He stared at Zhong Shan, clutching his gourd, unable toprehend what had just happened. Where did the de go? Why couldn''t he sense it anymore?


    "Boom~~~!"


    The Four Swords of Immortal Execution retracted abruptly, and the three towering swords disappeared without a trace.


    "The Four Swords of Immortal Execution have withdrawn!" countless powerful cultivators outside eximed, their voices filled with excitement at this dramatic turn of events.


    "Go, kill Zhong Shan with me!" Daoist Crow shouted urgently to the two nearby Celestial Realm experts.


    "Yes!" N�� Qinghui and the toad Lei responded in unison.


    Daoist Crow was anxious. The sudden disappearance of the Celestial yer Flying de filled him with unease. He had to kill Zhong Shan quickly.


    Suddenly, another sh of white light shot out from the gourd.


    "Another Celestial yer Flying de?" Zhong Shan paused, then quickly flew away from the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, soaring high into the sky.


    "Boom~~~!"


    The new Celestial yer Flying de shattered the defenses of the Southern Heaven Gate. Three unparalleled experts darted inside, followed by Daoist Crow and another figure in green who had just returned from dismantling the formation��a Celestial Realm expert.


    The four Celestial Realm experts pursued Zhong Shan, yet the other two experts from the Longevity Realm did not appear for reasons unknown.


    In no time, Daoist Crow and the three experts cornered Zhong Shan high in the sky. By now, Zhong Shan and hispanions had broken through the great formation of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court and ascended even higher.


    Emperor Xuan Sha was still nowhere to be seen.


    Around Zhong Shan, golden light erupted. The protective golden dragon projected a massive golden dragon phantom, enveloping Zhong Shan and providing the strongest protection.


    "Where is my Celestial yer Flying de?" Daoist Crow roared in fury.


    In his fury, Daoist Crow''s gourd abruptly opened wide, releasing three more des. Two were identical to the white Celestial yer Flying de that had vanished before Zhong Shan, but the third was a dazzling seven-colored de. This multicolored de, adorned with a pair of eyes ring straight at Zhong Shan, seemed like a monarch, with the two white des submitting to it.


    "Why don''t you give it a try?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Boom~~~!" A sudden explosion echoed from the Eastern Heaven Gate.


    "Ah~~~!" A scream followed, indicating that one of the green-d figures had fallen to Emperor Xuan Sha.


    A sh of purple light streaked across the sky, heading towards the Northern Heaven Gate.


    "Not good, Emperor Xuan Sha has killed him?" the toad Lei eximed in shock.


    Everything became extremely urgent. Daoist Crow could no longer hold back, and the three Celestial yer Flying des shot towards Zhong Shan.


    "Turn around, my treasures!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    In an instant, the terrifying des reached Zhong Shan.


    "Chomp!"


    A gigantic mouth suddenly appeared in front of Zhong Shan, swallowing the iing des. Unfortunately, the seven-colored de reacted too quickly, retreating along with one of the white des. Even so, one white de was devoured.


    A massive eight-tailed beast suddenly appeared before everyone, filling their eyes with astonishment. The eight enormous tailsshed out rapidly, aiming for the Celestial Realm experts, but their speed was simply too great for the tails to catch.


    "Attack together!" Daoist Crowmanded coldly.


    With a wave of his hand, the Celestial yer Flying des sliced towards the eight-tailed beast again. This time, the des didn''t target the mouth but aimed to cut the enormous tails instead.


    The Celestial yer Flying des were known for being indestructible and unstoppable. Never before had they suffered such a setback as being eaten by a monster.


    Though the eight-tailed beast was powerful, it was no match for the speed of the Celestial yer Flying des. The seven-colored de aimed for the purple tail, while the white de targeted Zhong Shan''s forehead. Another Celestial Realm expert wielded the Immortal Binding Sword, shing towards Zhong Shan, and the toad Lei spat out a thick, ink-like mist. N�� Qinghui, seizing an opportunity, shot a blue beam from her hand.


    In an instant, Daoist Crow turned angrily to re at N�� Qinghui, for her blue beam wasn''t aimed at Zhong Shan but at the golden dragon phantom''s head. What was she aiming at the dragon for?


    "Chirp~~~!"


    Feeling the threat from the seven-colored Celestial yer Flying de, the eight-tailed beast let out a terrified screech.


    In a blink, the eight-tailed beast vanished!


    Yes, it disappeared in an instant. Though it was not fast, it was linked to Zhong Shan''s core consciousness, capable of retreating into his body in an instant.


    However, two attacks remained��a strike from the Immortal Binding Sword and the white Celestial yer Flying de��both aimed directly at Zhong Shan.


    At this critical moment, Zhong Shan ignored the toad Lei''s poison and N�� Qinghui''s blue light aimed at the dragon''s head. He also paid no mind to the Immortal Binding Sword''s shattering strike. Instead, he drew out his Nightmare Greatsword and swung it fiercely at the Celestial yer Flying de.


    He activated his sixth level of Heavenly Demon Tempering Body Art and unleashed the power of the True Dragon''s Qi, channeling all his strength into his attack.


    It was just as the eight-tailed beast retreated back into his body, toote to reemerge. The powerful sh between Zhong Shan and the Celestial yer Flying de ensued.


    "Boom~~~!"


    The explosive impact sent tremors through all the Celestial Realm experts present. The Immortal Binding Sword was intercepted, not by Zhong Shan, but by a massive pearl that suddenly appeared on the golden dragon phantom''s w. It was the Dark Emperor''s treasure, the Star Pearl, one of the ancient twelve great treasures.


    The Star Pearl and the Immortal Binding Sword shed with equal might, although this bnce was merely an illusion. The Star Pearl was sent flying, and the force of the Immortal Binding Sword was fully repelled.


    Old strength exhausted, new strength not yet risen!


    Zhong Shan''s strike collided with the white Celestial yer Flying de. The Nightmare Greatsword shattered into fragments, his tiger''s mouth split open, and blood gushed out.


    Even the True Dragon''s Qi wavered, threatening to shatter at any moment.


    However, he managed to stop the Celestial yer Flying de, which halted an inch from his forehead, unable to advance further.


    "Return, my treasure...!" Daoist Crow began tomand in anger, but his expression changed. The Celestial yer Flying de retreated swiftly, as he sensed the presence of the eight-tailed beast again.


    Indeed, just as the de retreated, the nightmarish voice echoed once more, "Chomp!" But the eight-tailed beast devoured nothing.


    At this point, the toad Lei''s ck poison cloud enveloped Zhong Shan. However, the True Dragon''s Qi prevented the poison from entering his body. Only N�� Qinghui''s blue light was effective, disappearing into the golden dragon''s forehead, making Zhong Shan feel something enter his body, though he couldn''t locate it.


    The previousplex engagement seemed intricate but urred in mere moments.


    Zhong Shan had defended sessfully. He smiled, confident that if he could block once, he could block again!


    "Citizens of the Great Zong Empire, heed mymand, raise your right hands!" Zhong Shan''s voice rang out powerfully.


    Through the transmission of fortune, hismand echoed across the Great Zong Empire. Citizens in all cities heard his voice.


    Most of them obeyed, raising their right hands and suddenly feeling drained.


    Zhong Shan merged with the golden dragon of fortune, his body expanding rapidly.


    In an instant, he became a thousand-zhang giant!


    The massive Zhong Shan, empowered by the golden dragon''s fortune, radiated an overwhelming True Dragon''s Qi, pressing against the Celestial Realm experts.


    "Ah~~~!"


    Another scream echoed from the north, a ck light shooting towards the sky, reflecting with the purple light.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha has killed another?" the toad Lei eximed in shock.


    Two Longevity Realm experts in, the Immortal Execution Sword and Absolute Immortal Sword seized? Was Emperor Xuan Sha truly this formidable?


    "Finish this quickly!" Daoist Crow shouted in fury.


    At this moment, without the Star Pearl andcking a weapon, what could Zhong Shan do?


    "Turn around, my treasure!" Daoist Crow roared angrily.


    Once again, the Immortal Binding Sword shed towards Zhong Shan.

 Chapter 694: The Battle鈥檚 Outcome

    <h4>Chapter 694: The Battle''s Oue</h4>


    In such a short span of time, there was no way for Emperor Xuan Sha to make it back in time! The four Celestial Realm expertsunched their attacks towards Zhong Shan once more.


    Zhong Shan, now towering at a thousand zhang, was surrounded by wild, uncontroble energy. Under the effects of the Heavenly Demon Tempering Body Art, Zhong Shan''s energy output had already reached the level of an elementary Celestial Realm. Combined with the True Dragon''s protective aura and the strength of the billions of citizens of the Great Zong Empire, Zhong Shan''s power had expanded exponentially. Although he fell short in many aspectspared to a true Celestial Realm expert, in sheer quantity, he now matched a high-level Celestial Realm.


    For some reason, N�� Qinghui seemed off. Her attacks against Zhong Shan felt perfunctory. As Daoist Crow grew more anxious, N�� Qinghui merelyunched a single palm strike. While this strike would have been devastating to a regr Emperor Realm expert, it felt feeble against the current Zhong Shan.


    The toad Lei suddenly wielded a strange weapon resembling a shovel, striking fiercely at Zhong Shan. N�� Qinghui''s palm strike could be ignored, and Zhong Shan was confident the True Dragon''s Qi could withstand Lei''s shovel. However, the Celestial yer Flying des from Daoist Crow required serious attention.


    The white Celestial yer Flying de had already proven its formidable power, nearly overwhelming Zhong Shan at full strength. The multicolored de, seemingly several times stronger than the white one, posed an even greater threat.


    Two Celestial yer Flying des hurtled towards him with immense power. Could he withstand them this time?


    As for the Immortal Binding Sword, reputed as the most dangerous sword in existence, its power should beparable to the multicolored Celestial yer Flying de, even in the hands of an ordinary Celestial Realm expert.


    In the face of imminent danger, Zhong Shan became extraordinarily calm.


    What should he do this time?


    Using his hand as a de, Zhong Shan swung a strike towards the white Celestial yer Flying de.


    "Eight Hundred Waves!"


    This time, Zhong Shan focused solely on the weakest white Celestial yer Flying de, seemingly ignoring the Immortal Binding Sword and the multicolored Celestial yer Flying de.


    Just as the Immortal Binding Sword was about to strike, the eight-tailed beast suddenly appeared beside Zhong Shan. The eight-tailed beast didn''t aim for the multicolored de but instead opened its mouth towards the Immortal Binding Sword.


    Despite its growth, the eight-tailed beast dared not confront the Immortal Binding Sword''s edge directly. Attempting to devour it would likely result in being cleaved in two by the sword, one of the world''s deadliest.


    However, the eight-tailed beast''s move was just a feint to scare the sword wielder.


    As the beast''s gaping maw opened, the Celestial Realm expert instinctively withdrew the sword rapidly. Although the Immortal Binding Sword was incredibly powerful, the green-robed expert didn''t dare to risk it. The psychological pressure from seeing the beast devour the indestructible Celestial yer Flying des was immense. What if the beast ate the Immortal Binding Sword?


    Zhong Shan had banked on the expert''sck of nerve. If it had been Daoist Crow, the de would have shed down mercilessly. Unfortunately, it wasn''t him, and the golden opportunity was missed.


    "Eight Hundred Waves!" finally collided with the white Celestial yer Flying de.


    "Boom~~~!"


    A tremendous explosion followed as Zhong Shan''s groundbreaking technique shed with the formidable white de. The impact sent the white Celestial yer Flying de recoiling, but Zhong Shan''s right hand was left mangled and bleeding profusely.


    Zhong Shan''s left shoulder bore a gaping wound, the result of the multicolored Celestial yer Flying de''s unstoppable force. The formidable True Dragon''s Qi, his powerful physique, and the collective strength of the Great Zong Empire''s billions could not prevent this de from piercing through.


    Despite the excruciating pain, Zhong Shan endured in silence.


    "Boom!"


    The bted strike from the toad Lei''s shovel weapon struck Zhong Shan, causing him to stagger, but it had little effect. N�� Qinghui''s palm strike was simrly futile.


    Having withstood the secondbined assault, Zhong Shan was left battered and wounded, his body covered in injuries.


    Yet again, the four Celestial Realm experts failed to achieve their goal. How could it be so difficult for them to kill an Emperor Realm expert?


    Daoist Crow was on the verge of madness.


    "Transform, my treasure!" Daoist Crowmanded.


    Suddenly, the two Celestial yer Flying des flew back into the gourd. The gourd then transformed into a fearsome multicolored greatsword, radiating an aura of violent malice that disrupted the surrounding space.


    Grasping the transformed greatsword, Daoist Crow red at Zhong Shan and shouted, "Again!"


    As Daoist Crow''s vicious gaze shed, a purple light descended from the sky, slicing towards him. A powerful sword filled with domineering energy shed from afar.


    With a single swing, the swords of countless experts trembled.


    Below the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, numerous onlookers watched the battle in the sky with growing excitement and admiration. Was this really just an Emperor of a dynasty? So fierce, so formidable?


    What would such a mighty figure be like if he reached the Celestial Realm? To these spectators, Zhong Shan''s current disy of strength and resilience was awe-inspiring.


    As countless experts looked on in reverence, their swords began to hum and vibrate, as if bowing to someone.


    Sword submission?


    Everyone tightened their grip on their swords and looked up to see a purple curtain of light descending from the sky.


    The Immortal Execution Sword?


    The appearance of the Immortal Execution Sword caused countless swords to bow. Was it the Sword of the King of Swords?


    It was Emperor Xuan Sha. After Zhong Shan had withstood twobined assaults, Emperor Xuan Sha had arrived, and his powerful Immortal Execution Sword shed towards Daoist Crow.


    Daoist Crow''s eyes widened in urgency as he raised the multicolored greatsword to meet the attack.


    "Boom~~~!"


    This was a sh between the mightiest of Shenzhou, a collision of the strongest. The resulting explosion sent waves of sound that deafened countless experts below, even at a great distance.


    The vast space above shattered once more, engulfing the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The collision felt like the end of the world, causing many to vomit blood from the sheer force of the shockwaves.


    As the space gradually restored, Daoist Crow stood facing Emperor Xuan Sha.


    "Kill Zhong Shan, I''ll handle Emperor Xuan Sha!" Daoist Crow roared.


    For the first time, his meticulouslyid ns had led to such a disastrous situation. This had never happened before, and he could not tolerate such humiliation.


    Zhong Shan had be the object of Daoist Crow''s deep-seated hatred. This man had to die, even if it meant sacrificing everyone he had brought with him.


    "Kill him!"


    Kill, Kill, Kill!


    A murderous intent surged, and Daoist Crow regretted not transforming the Celestial yer Gourd earlier. Although it would have greatly damaged the gourd, it was better than ending up with nothing.


    Daoist Crow stood before Emperor Xuan Sha, determined to see Zhong Shan dead.


    However, another bizarre scene unfolded.


    The eyes of the three Celestial Realm experts suddenly zed over, their six eyes bing vacant. N�� Qinghui was the first to recover.


    "It''s the Heavenly Demon again?" N�� Qinghui eximed.


    Unfortunately, it was toote. In that fleeting moment, the eight-tailed beast''s numerous tails swiftly wrapped around the three experts.


    Though slow, the eight-tailed beast was immensely powerful.


    Three tails ensnared the three Celestial Realm experts, while a fourth tail coiled around the Immortal Binding Sword. Salivating, the eight-tailed beast sought to seize this treasure, dreaming of devouring it.


    As the beast opened its maw to bite down, Daoist Crow panicked. "Die!" he shouted, raising his multicolored greatsword to strike.


    But Emperor Xuan Sha blocked Daoist Crow''s path. "Weren''t you going to watch me?" he taunted, restraining Daoist Crow.


    Daoist Crow''s eyes burned with rage as he red at the scene. When had he ever suffered such a loss?


    Just as the eight-tailed beast was about to consume the Immortal Binding Sword, Daoist Crow clenched his teeth and produced a multicolored pearl, which he crushed in his hand.


    "Buzz~~~!"


    The Immortal Binding Sword suddenly trembled. As it quivered, Emperor Xuan Sha noticed in surprise that the Immortal Execution Sword and the Absolute Immortal Sword were also vibrating.


    A tremendous force emanated from the two swords, breaking free from Emperor Xuan Sha''s grasp.


    Breaking free? Emperor Xuan Sha looked on in astonishment. Such power!


    The Immortal Execution Sword, the Immortal Binding Sword, and the Absolute Immortal Sword, upon breaking free, seemed to respond to a distant call and shot westward at incredible speed.


    Clearly, a powerful figure in the west had summoned the three swords from afar.


    What kind of formidable being was this? A look of shock shed in Emperor Xuan Sha''s eyes.


    As this urred, Zhong Shan knew something was wrong. The eight-tailed beast rapidly retreated toward Zhong Shan.


    However, dragging the three Celestial Realm experts slowed it down. Daoist Crow, without hesitation, shed at the beast, but most of its body had already escaped, with only one tail still dragging the toad Lei.


    Seeing the iing strike, the tail released Lei, abandoning him. In its haste, the eight-tailed beast''s mouth instead swallowed the expert who had been holding the Immortal Binding Sword.


    Emperor Xuan Sha stepped in front of Zhong Shan and the eight-tailed beast once more.


    Realizing he could make no further progress, Daoist Crow''s eyes shed with hatred. Grabbing the toad Lei, he flew away.


    Emperor Xuan Sha did not pursue but looked at the severely injured Zhong Shan and N�� Qinghui, who was still ensnared by the eight-tailed beast.


    ring at N�� Qinghui, Zhong Shan said, "Emperor Xuan Sha, guard N�� Qinghui and take her back to the Hall of Longevity. Once my injuries heal, I will interrogate her!"


    "Understood," Emperor Xuan Sha nodded.


    The eight-tailed beast released N�� Qinghui and vanished. Zhong Shan quickly flew back to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Although N�� Qinghui was a Celestial Realm expert, she wouldn''t escape under Emperor Xuan Sha''s watchful eye.

 Chapter 695: Further Advancement

    <h4>Chapter 695: Further Advancement</h4>


    Daoist Crow of the Longevity Realm led six Celestial Realm experts to attack the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. In the end, three were killed, two escaped, one was captured, and one''s fate remains unknown.


    Witnessing this unfold, nearly all the onlookers were left in stunned silence. It was too surreal, yet it happened right before their eyes.


    "Is this real? Is this still an empire?" one observer cursed in disbelief.


    "Four Celestial Realm experts attempted to kill Zhong Shan, an Emperor Realm cultivator, and they failed?"


    "The Great Zong Empire? The number one empire in Shenzhou!"


    "No, this empire can rival a celestial dynasty! It''s doing what only a celestial dynasty can!"


    "If this is the empire, what kind of greatness will it achieve when it ascends to a celestial dynasty?"


    "The imperial examination ising soon, the Great Zong''s imperial examination ising! I need to start preparing!"


    The sentiments of countless experts spread throughout the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. There was more admiration than ever before for the empire. Today''s battle will undoubtedly be heard across thend! The story of Zhong Shan standing against four Celestial Realm experts alone will be legendary!


    The battle ended, yet countless spectators lingered, unwilling to leave.


    Looking at the brilliant Lingxiao Heavenly Court in the sky, everyone showed expressions of longing.


    In a secluded valley.


    Taizong King of Dayong, King of Battle, and Old Tian stood in silence.


    "The Great Zong?" the King of Battle''s voice was tinged with jealousy.


    The scenes of the battle had left a deep impression on the King of Battle.


    "Zhong Shan, truly impressive," Taizong King sighed.


    "Impressive? He only leveraged the power of the Great Zong and fought on his home turf against strong enemies. Anyone else in his ce could have done the same!" the King of Battle retorted jealously.


    "No, it''s not about the strength. Someone else could indeed exert the same force, but they would undoubtedly die," Taizong King shook his head.


    "Oh?"


    "In this battle, Zhong Shan was definitely no match for Daoist Crow or the Immortal Binding Sword, yet he managed to hold them off. Didn''t you see? The firstbined assault caught the four Celestial Realm experts off guard, and the second was even more brilliant. He used the beast to intimidate the Immortal Binding Sword, gambling on psychological resilience. Facing two Celestial yer Flying des, he exposed his vital points to the weaker one and attacked with all his might. This forced the multicolored de to aim for less critical areas. In such a dire situation, he managed to strategize to this extent. Zhong Shan is terrifyingly formidable!" Taizong King took a deep breath in admiration.


    "So what? In the face of absolute power, no amount of strategy can save you. If they attacked again, Zhong Shan would undoubtedly die!" the King of Battle retorted.


    "Undoubtedly die? Do you think Zhong Shan''s capabilities end here?" Taizong King shook his head.


    "Does he have more hidden aces? Why did he fight so desperately the second time then?" the King of Battle asked, incredulous.


    "Why? Because of his calctions. He had already factored in Emperor Xuan Sha''s arrival, so he didn''t reveal his remaining trump cards!" Taizong King exined with a deep breath.


    "Hiss~~!"


    The King of Battle gasped.


    "Is he even human?" the King of Battle asked in disbelief.


    "That''s where you and I fall shortpared to him. In Dayong, perhaps only the emperor can surpass Zhong Shan. Our emperor is the one who hides the deepest. Even now, I can''t see through him," Taizong King sighed.


    The three men fell into a prolonged silence.


    "Let''s go back to the court," Old Tian said calmly.


    "Agreed," the other two nodded.


    In another valley, Zi Xun had been observing the breathtaking battle the entire time.


    Several times, she had the urge to rush out and join the fray, but the level ofbat was so high that even Zi Xun, with her advanced Emperor Realm cultivation, couldn''t intervene. Only after Daoist Crow retreated did Zi Xun breathe a sigh of relief. Yet, she didn''t leave; she stayed to watch over the valley, seemingly waiting for Zhong Shan to recover.


    The next day, the surroundings of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court returned to normal. The massive neen-wed fortune dragon once again soared into the sea of clouds, frolicking in the increasingly potent fortune before coiling back and pointing its majestic horns towards the sky.


    The robust fortune dragon announced to the world that the Great Zong Emperor was nearly recovered.


    Seeing this, the surrounding spectators were taken aback. Was this real? Had he truly recovered so quickly?


    The Celestial yer Flying de was said to be inescapable, a weapon that could kill anyone whose body it touched, as it injured not only the body but the soul as well. Recovering from such a wound, even for an emperor with the protection of a true dragon, should take at least a month.


    But here he was, seemingly fine the very next day.


    Everyone was bewildered, their hearts filled with confusion and doubt.


    Outside the Hall of Longevity, officials waited quietly. Emperor Xuan Sha escorted N�� Qinghui into the hall. She was restrained by a special technique that rendered her as powerless as an ordinary person.


    Inside the hall, only Emperor Xuan Sha and N�� Qinghui were present.


    N�� Qinghui nced around the hall, showing no signs of distress, which made Emperor Xuan Sha frown slightly.


    "Aren''t you worried about how Zhong Shan will deal with you?" Emperor Xuan Sha asked, puzzled.


    "I''ve done all I could. What more do I have to worry about?" N�� Qinghui replied calmly.


    "Oh?"


    "You arrived just in time yesterday. Anotherbined assault, and Zhong Shan would have surely died," N�� Qinghui sighed.


    "Heh!" Emperor Xuan Sha let out a coldugh.


    "What?"


    "An emperor is not someone you can easily understand. You couldn''tprehend the ancient magical powers, and you can''tprehend Zhong Shan either. If Zhong Shan can withstand onebined assault from you, he can withstand ten," Emperor Xuan Sha asserted confidently.


    "Impossible!" N�� Qinghui eximed.


    "There are many things you don''t know," Emperor Xuan Sha shook his head, sighing.


    Indeed, Zhong Shan had hidden some tricks. Emperor Xuan Sha was aware of some, but there were still unknowns. Over the years, he had watched Zhong Shan grow, yet he found that Zhong Shan''s depth only increased. Was this the way of an emperor? While others might hide their tricks from your sight, Zhong Shan did so right under his nose, bing more and more elusive.


    Emperor Xuan Sha grew increasingly unable to see through Zhong Shan, and he couldn''t help but marvel at his past decision. Perhaps he had truly found a chance for the wolf n to rise, even in the vast world.


    Meanwhile, in the secret chamber where Zhong Shan was recovering, his body gradually healed. Despite his severe injuries, Zhong Shan had the eight-tailed beast, which could convert energy into the most suitable form for his recovery. The eight-tailed beast had swallowed two Celestial yer Flying des and a Celestial Realm expert, aiding Zhong Shan''s healing.


    The immense energy overflowed, and a small portion of it was directed towards Zhong Shan.


    In less than half a day, Zhong Shan hadpletely recovered. The excess energy even allowed his cultivation to advance once more, reaching the seventh level of the Emperor Realm!


    Though it was just one level, it gave Zhong Shan enough hope. The Celestial yer Flying de, even the white one, surpassed a ninth-grade magical treasure. Though not quite an immortal artifact, the multicolored one certainly reached that level, not to mention the enormous gourd.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes gleamed slightly. How wonderful it would be to swallow the Celestial yer Gourd whole!


    Of course, the most coveted treasures were the Four Immortal Execution Swords, which Zhong Shan desired the most. Those four swords were undoubtedly more powerful than ordinary immortal artifacts.


    Unfortunately, a peerless expert had reimed them in the end. The Immortal Execution Sword and the Absolute Immortal Sword had been in Emperor Xuan Sha''s hands. Who in the world could take them? Yet, the truth was before him��an unparalleled expert had summoned the three divine swords from a great distance!


    Who was it? Who possessed such power?


    A denizen of the Longevity Realm? What hidden depths did the Longevity Realm hold? Had the y Buddha and King Skeleton discovered anything?


    With these heavy thoughts, Zhong Shan''s vignce towards the Longevity Realm increased.


    And then there was N�� Qinghui! Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed as he recalled her shooting a blue light towards the golden dragon''s head, which he had felt enter his body. What was it?


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes and quickly tried to sense it. However, he couldn''t find anything. Even with the eight-tailed beast searching, there was no sign of it. A sense of unease shed through his mind. He enveloped himself in the Red Luan Mist, but still found nothing. What could it be?


    Zhong Shan was highly resistant to any unknown entities within his body. He absolutely could not allow anything uncontroble inside him.


    He searched through the night but found nothing. It seemed he would have to interrogate N�� Qinghui.


    Suppressing his difort, Zhong Shan took out some of the world''s most precious materials.


    The Nightmare Greatsword had been shattered and needed to be reforged. The sword, embodying a spirit of fierce determination, symbolized the arduous journey of his empire and was indispensable.


    For the Great Zong Empire to endure, it could never lose its fighting spirit. The war sword served as a constant reminder of this mission.


    This time, Zhong Shan decided to forge the sword using the same method as the Mountains and Rivers Society Seal, imbuing it with his heart, mind, will, andw. As he forged the sword, he infused it with his indomitable spirit, making it as formidable and imposing as himself.


    Forging the sword wasn''t difficult; in three days, Zhong Shan hadpleted it.


    The greatsword looked the same as before and retained the name "Nightmare," for its mission was not yet fulfilled. It was destined to be the lifelong nightmare of "Li Tian Crown Prince."


    Certain principles, Zhong Shan never forgot.


    Lifting his head, Zhong Shan looked at the empty hall and said, "Huan Ji, thank you for your help this time."


    The hall seemed empty, but Zhong Shan could see her��a peerless beauty standing before him. It was Huan Ji, the core of the Hundred Worlds Cave, once known as the source of all evil.


    "Yes, but can you fulfill a wish for me?" Huan Ji thought for a moment and asked.


    "A wish? As long as it doesn''t go against my principles, I have no problem with it," Zhong Shan nodded with a smile.


    "Great!" Huan Ji said excitedly.


    The source of all evil now appeared as innocent as a nk sheet of paper.


    "Then tell me your wish," Zhong Shan said.


    Huan Ji thought for a moment, "Uh, uh, I don''t think I''ve thought of a wish yet!"


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    "Can I tell youter?" Huan Ji asked hopefully.


    Zhong Shan: "..."

 Chapter 696: Coercing Nu Qinghui

    <h4>Chapter 696: Coercing Nu Qinghui</h4>


    After chatting with Huan Ji for a while, Zhongshan left the secret chamber and headed towards the library pavilion, Tianyuan Ge. Mud Bodhisattva, Wang Ku, Shui Jing, Yi Yan, Ling Er, Bao Er, and Bei Qingsi were all waiting in Tianyuan Ge.


    Interrogating Nu Qinghui was unavoidable, but Zhongshan knew he had to settle matters concerning Da Guo first.


    "Zhongshan, are you alright?" Tian Ling''er was the first to rush up and check Zhongshan''s condition.


    Bao Er and Bei Qingsi also looked at Zhongshan with concern.


    "I''m perfectly fine!" Zhongshan replied with a smile.


    "You''re lying. I saw it that day��your left shoulder was injured, and your right hand was covered in blood!" Tears welled up in Tian Ling''er''s eyes.


    Bao Er pulled Tian Ling''er towards Zhongshan. "That day, Ling''er cried non-stop when she saw you injured. Are you really okay?"


    Bao Er''s eyes were filled with worry, while Bei Qingsi, though silent, showed her concern through her gaze.


    "I''mpletely fine now, aren''t I? Look at my palm, where''s the injury?" Zhongshan reassured them.


    "But..." Bei Qingsi still worried.


    "Wait for me at Bao Er''s pce. Tonight, I''ll let you check, alright?" Zhongshan smiled.


    Upon hearing Zhongshan''s words, the three women blushed slightly and nodded.


    After seeing off the three women, Zhongshan turned to the remaining four.


    "Mud Bodhisattva, Wang Ku, how did the investigation into Changsheng Realm go?" Zhongshan asked solemnly.


    "We couldn''t delve deep. The heritage of Changsheng Realm is truly profound!" Mud Bodhisattva shook his head with a sigh.


    "Oh?"


    "After probing Changsheng Realm, we ventured slightly inward but were soon detected by a strong presence there. A five-colored divine light shed, and we dared not linger, immediately retreating!" Mud Bodhisattva sighed again.


    "A five-colored divine light?" Zhongshan squinted. Facing Kong Lie Tian on Phoenix Ind, he had once disyed a three-colored divine light. Now, someone in Changsheng Realm could produce a five-colored divine light?


    "Yes, it''s simr to the legendary divine light of Kong Hou, the strong elder of the Peacock n from thousands of years ago, but even stronger! When the five-colored divine light appeared, the heavens and earth changed!" Mud Bodhisattva said in a deep voice.


    "There really is such an extraordinary figure. Did he not pursue you at that time?" Zhongshan wondered.


    "No!" Mud Bodhisattva shook his head.


    "I feel like he''s recuperating," suddenly said Wang Ku.


    "Oh?"


    "Just a feeling��he''s powerful but seemingly unable to leave Changsheng Realm, likely because he''s recuperating or for some other reason," spected Wang Ku.


    "Hmm." Zhongshan nodded.


    Perhaps that person who took away the Swords of Extermination, Imprisonment, and Eternal Extermination that day was him. Changsheng Realm actually harbors such an old monster?


    "Your Majesty, the battle a few days ago has made Your Majesty famous throughout the world. Countless talents are now preparing to participate in our country''s imperial examinations because of Your Majesty''s battle, marveling at how you single-handedly repelled the four Great Heavenly Boundaries. It''s truly incredible. Before this, many spected that Da Guo would perish in this disaster!" Shui Jing chuckled beside him.


    "Oh? Is that so?"


    "Of course, Your Majesty''s single-handed retreat of all four Great Heavenly Boundaries is simply unbelievable. Previously, people spected that our Da Guo might perish in this cmity!" Shui Jing sighed.


    "Perish in this cmity? Haha, it was close, mainly because Divine Raven Daojun was too stingy!" Zhongshan shook his head.


    Divine Raven Daojun was too stingy? The crowd hesitated for a moment, then nodded one after another. Yeah, too stingy. In the underworld, in order to stir up a family, Zhongshan gathered nearly five Great Heavenly Boundaries, five Earth Immortals, one Heavenly Ghost, and even Xuan Yuan and Yin Luo. Excluding Zhongshan himself, this is at least thirteen Great Heavenly Boundaries.


    Divine Raven Daojun made such a big fuss, yet only brought seven? This is the Yang Realm, where the strong are more numerous than in the Yin Realm, and only this few came. If it''s not stinginess, what is it?


    "It was Divine Raven Daojun who underestimated His Majesty. Underestimating His Majesty means paying the price!" Yi Yan sighed.


    Zhongshan''s development was incredibly rapid, so much so that describing it as monstrous might not be an exaggeration. His pace was so fast that it was hard to keep up with his thinking. Seven? Divine Raven Daojun dared to lead seven Heavenly Boundaries to storm an imperial court and enter a holynd, yet who would have thought that the seven Heavenly Boundaries would suffer a major setback in a small empire?


    "Alright, enough about him. What''s the situation on your side?" Zhongshan turned to Shui Jing and Yi Yan.


    "The four invading empires are now in chaos. With the support of the Da Rong Commerce Guild, they will bepletely pacified within half a year," Shui Jing reported.


    "Good."


    "The Great Devouring n has caused instability among the remaining twenty empires. Loyalty to rulers and ministers is in disarray. In the next six months, with our efforts, surely more than half of these empires will copse. Of course, some wise emperors might see through it all," Yi Yan sighed.


    "Indeed. Out of twenty-four empires, four are already in our hands. For the remaining twenty, if in half a year we can take twelve, I will be very satisfied," Zhongshan remarked.


    "Your Majesty need not worry. With the Da Rong Commerce Guild providing ''Scenic Jade Tablets,'' the rulers of the fallen empires will surely wee us to take over their cities," Yi Yan said with a smile.


    "I trust you with this," Zhongshan nodded.


    After dealing with state affairs, Zhongshan headed to the Hall of Longevity. As he approached, the ministers bowed deeply.


    "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live!"


    Like a contagion, the call of ''long live'' echoed outside the pce among themon people.


    "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live!"


    The people''s cheers were a heartfelt expression of reverence for Zhongshan, who had be a spiritual pir for them. The unity of Da Guo was growing stronger by the day.


    Seeing the ministers bowing and hearing the thunderous cheers from outside, Zhongshan felt ted.


    "You may all retire. We will convene tomorrow morning," Zhongshan addressed the ministers who had been waiting.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    The ministers responded in unison and dispersed.


    After dismissing the ministers, Zhongshan waved his hand, and all the guards around left as well.


    Only then did Zhongshan step into the Hall of Longevity.


    Inside the hall, there were only two people: Nu Qinghui and Emperor Xuan Sha. Emperor Xuan Sha looked at Zhongshan with satisfaction, while Nu Qinghui, devoid of any nervousness, gazed at Zhongshan with a peculiar expression.


    "I''ve restrained her with a special technique. She cannot perform any spells and is now like an ordinary person," Emperor Xuan Sha said.


    "Thank you," Zhongshan replied.


    "Hmm," Emperor Xuan Sha nodded.


    "You can start the interrogation. I''ll take my leave," Emperor Xuan Sha said.


    "Alright," Zhongshan nodded.


    In the blink of an eye, Emperor Xuan Sha vanished, leaving only Zhongshan and Nu Qinghui in the grand hall.


    Neither spoke a word as Nu Qinghui gazed at Zhongshan, who began to circle around her slowly. Zhongshan intended to exert pressure on her, but Nu Qinghui remained eerily calm.


    Seeing his efforts to unsettle her fail, Zhongshan stepped forward and stared directly into Nu Qinghui''s eyes.


    "An extraordinary figure," he remarked nonchntly, "Just with this body alone, you can incite desire in countless men."


    Nu Qinghui remained silent as Zhongshan reached out and removed her veil.


    Her eyes widened, but Zhongshan continued, "A peerless beauty, the finest in the world! Even women would be captivated by you, a supreme enchantress. If there were a contest for the most beautiful woman in the world, you would be the undisputed winner!"


    Nu Qinghui looked at Zhongshan with a trace of confusion, unsure of his intentions.


    Zhongshan threw her veil to the ground, his gaze turning cold. "But beneath that unmatched beauty lies a heart as venomous as a serpent''s!" he snapped.


    "Thank you for thepliment!" Nu Qinghui replied,pletely unfazed.


    Zhongshan squinted at her, "In the past, at the Frozen Empire, I spared you because of Zi Xun and Nian Youyou, yet you remain unrepentant and dare to offend me again?"


    "I''m a bad woman," Nu Qinghui said with a smile.


    That smile was like a hundred flowers blooming, captivating even Zhongshan, despite his resolve. It was undeniable that her beauty had the power to enchant the masses.


    "Tell me, what is the blue light you injected into me?" Zhongshan asked sternly.


    Nu Qinghui merely smiled and remained silent.


    "I''m not one of your admirers who will show you mercy! If you don''t speak, don''t me me for resorting to extreme measures," Zhongshan warned.


    "Extreme measures?" Nu Qinghui looked at Zhongshan with curiosity, but he detected a flicker of panic in her calm gaze.


    Zhongshan smiled faintly and began to scrutinize Nu Qinghui from head to toe. His unabashed gaze made her increasingly uneasy. Her breath quickened, causing her ample chest to heave noticeably.


    Satisfied with her reaction, Zhongshan continued to stare until their eyes met. He saw a sh of panic in her eyes.


    "I''ll count to three. If you still refuse to speak, you''ll have only yourself to me," Zhongshan said sternly.


    The vagueness of his threat only intensified the fear it invoked.


    "One!"


    Nu Qinghui frowned.


    "Two!"


    Nu Qinghui''s eyes tightened, but she bit her lip and remained silent.


    "Three!"


    As Zhongshan finished counting, Nu Qinghui involuntarily stepped back.


    "You still won''t talk? Then don''t me me!" Zhongshan stepped forward, and Nu Qinghui took another step back in retreat.


    Just as Zhongshan was about to take action, a voice he did not wish to hear rang out from outside the hall.


    "Your Majesty������������������������������!" came the distant voice of Liu Wushuang.


    Zhongshan''s brow furrowed as he looked towards the source of the interruption, while Nu Qinghui breathed a sigh of relief.


    "What is it?" Zhongshan asked sharply.


    Perhaps sensing the anger in his tone, Liu Wushuang did not dare approach. "The other day, Zi Xun arrived again and requests an audience with Your Majesty!" she called from a distance.


    Zhongshan nced at Nu Qinghui and, after a moment of thought, responded, "Let her in! And once she''s inside, everyone else withdraw a thousand feet from the Hall of Longevity and activate the istion array! No one is to disturb us!"


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"

 Chapter 697: Reviving Gu Shentong?

    <h4>Chapter 697: Reviving Gu Shentong?</h4>


    Zi Xun had arrived? Zhongshan frowned slightly, recalling what Zi Xun had said before she leftst time.


    "Nu Qinghui intends to deal with you. Don''t fall into her hands!"


    At that time, was Zi Xun referring to the blue light? Did Zi Xun already know about it? Nu Qinghui was stubborn and refused to reveal anything, but perhaps Zi Xun could shed some light on the matter.


    Turning to look at Nu Qinghui, Zhongshan noticed that her expression changed when she heard Zi Xun wasing. She bit her lip and a sh of panic crossed her eyes.


    Soon, Zhongshan saw arge istion array envelop the exterior of the Hall of Longevity. Zi Xun must have entered.


    Regarding the blue light that had entered his body, Zhongshan hadn''t sought help from anyone��not Emperor Xuan Sha, Mud Bodhisattva, Wang Ku, or Nangong Sheng. They might not have been able to detect it, but Zhongshan couldn''t allow anyone to examine his body. As an emperor, his body was too precious to be probed casually��not because of his status, but due to the secrets and trust issues involved. Any problem with his body was destined to be resolved by himself alone.


    At the entrance of the Hall of Longevity, Zi Xun stepped inside.


    The moment she entered, Zi Xun saw Nu Qinghui. The two women locked eyes, and Zi Xun''s brows furrowed as she red angrily at Nu Qinghui.


    Nu Qinghui lowered her head in apparent shame, but soon reced it with a determined gaze, facing Zi Xun again.


    "You really did it?" Zi Xun demanded, ring at Nu Qinghui with anger.


    Zhongshan frowned, remaining silent as he watched Nu Qinghui.


    "Xun''er!"


    "Don''t call me Xun''er! My mother is dead, and you have nothing to do with me!" Zi Xun retorted angrily, her face turning slightly red.


    Zi Xun was clearly agitated, more so than ever before.


    Nu Qinghui''s eyes showed a hint of grievance, evoking pity. However, the two people in the hall did not soften their hearts because of her expression.


    Biting her lip as if she were about to draw blood, Nu Qinghui''s aggrieved eyes grew moreplex before suddenly shing with a hint of madness.


    "You know what I''m doing. Don''t you want him toe back?" Nu Qinghui shouted stubbornly.


    "Gu Shentong is dead. Truly dead, body and soul destroyed. How can hee back?" Zi Xun retorted furiously.


    Gu Shentong? Zhongshan''s pupils contracted. Reviving Gu Shentong? He suddenly realized the terrifying potential of that blue light.


    "He wille back. As long as there''s a trace of his remnant thought, he can be restored!" Nu Qinghui shook her head.


    "A remnant thought? You know it''s just a remnant thought. Gu Shentong''s soul is gone. What use is a remnant thought? Even if you recreate Gu Shentong from a remnant thought, would that still be Gu Shentong?" Zi Xun asked coldly.


    "I don''t care. I just want him alive!" Nu Qinghui suddenly shouted, her voice hoarse with emotion. Her previous timidity transformed into sheer hatred.


    After her outburst, Nu Qinghui''s eyes turned red. A mix of helplessness and stubbornness exploded in her gaze.


    "You''re insane! You''ve gone mad!" Zi Xun yelled, exasperated.


    At this moment, Zhongshan turned to Nu Qinghui and asked, "The blue light you injected into me, is it Gu Shentong''s remnant thought?"


    Nu Qinghui looked at Zhongshan, her eyes bing somewhat hazy and manic. "Haha, yes, it''s his remnant thought. You can''t find it. You can''t fight it. Even if it''s just a remnant thought, you can''t resist it. As you grow, it grows. When you reach the Heavenly Boundaries, it will be able to consume your spirit, devour your divine sense, and take everything from you. Then, you will be Gu Shentong. You will be Gu Shentong! Hahaha!"


    Nu Qinghui''sughter carried a trace of sorrow, as if she knew deep down that Gu Shentong was truly dead, and the revived Gu Shentong would never be the same. Yet, her stubbornnesspelled her to convince herself that the reborn one would indeed be Gu Shentong.


    "You crazy woman!" Zi Xun shouted.


    Zi Xun''s eyes were red, filled with a heart-wrenching sadness, as if tears could burst forth at any moment.


    "Crazy? Am I crazy? Or is the whole world crazy? Haha!" Nu Qinghui''s face showed a bitter smile.


    "Why did you choose him? Wasn''t it supposed to be Gu Zhengyi? Why Zhongshan all of a sudden? Why?" Zi Xun demanded, her voice frantic.


    "Gu Zhengyi? Gu Zhengyi?" Nu Qinghui''s brows furrowed.


    "Why? Tell me!" Zi Xun yelled, her confusion evident.


    Shaking her head, Nu Qinghui smiled faintly, "Gu Zhengyi? It was supposed to be him. He resembles Gu Shentong so much, almost a replica. But then I realized Zhongshan resembles Gu Shentong even more. Not in bloodline, appearance, habits, or nature, but in an indescribable essence. An ''intent''. Yes, that''s it��an ''intent''. They are the most alike. Only by reviving Gu Shentong through Zhongshan can the true Gu Shentong be brought back. The resemnce is uncanny!"


    "That still wouldn''t be Gu Shentong!" Zi Xun cried out, her frustration mounting.


    Zhongshan, who had been silently listening, felt a surge of suppressed anger. He coldly red at Nu Qinghui.


    "He is Gu Shentong!" Nu Qinghui screamed hysterically. At this moment, she was desperately trying to convince herself that the man before her would be Gu Shentong, that he was indeed Gu Shentong.


    "Enough!" Zhongshan roared.


    Both women looked at Zhongshan, who was seething with anger. Taking a deep breath, he suppressed his rage and turned to Zi Xun.


    "Is there any way to extract Gu Shentong''s remnant thought?" Zhongshan asked.


    Zi Xun bit her lip, her mind a tangled mess. She turned and red fiercely at Nu Qinghui.


    "Take out Gu Shentong''s remnant thought! Take it out!" Zi Xun shouted, her voice hoarse and desperate.


    "It''s impossible. No one can do it. Not even immortals. Gu Shentong''s remnant thought has taken root in Zhongshan''s body. No one can extract it. You know how formidable Gu Shentong is. Who can force him out? Hahaha, it''s impossible. Impossible!" Nu Qinghui cried out, her emotional instability evident.


    Nu Qinghui was deeply wounded by her emotions, her mood swinging wildly.


    "You crazy woman! Madwoman! Lunatic!" Zi Xun screamed, her own emotions bing unstable.


    Both women were fighting for the men they loved, driven by the same feeling��love. Originally, they were like celestial beings, looking down on the mortal world. But now, entangled in their emotions, they shed fiercely.


    "Zi Xun, don''t waste your efforts. It''s impossible. The situation can''t be changed unless Gu Shentong voluntarily extinguishes himself. Do you think that''s possible? How many times have you and Zhongshan met? Find someone else. There are many men in the world. You don''t need to..." Nu Qinghui''s tone shifted to one of appeasement.


    "Why don''t you find someone else?" Zi Xun screamed hysterically, her eyes red, tears welling up.


    "It''s toote to say anything now!" Nu Qinghui said stubbornly.


    "I hate you. I hate you so much!" Zi Xun screamed once more, her voice filled with despair.


    After shouting, Zi Xun turned and ran out of the hall, leaving behind two sparkling tears that fell from the sky.


    Nu Qinghui reached out and caught the falling tears, freezing them into beads of ice in her hand. Watching Zi Xun''s departing figure, a deep sense of loss shed through Nu Qinghui''s eyes. A fleeting expression of longing for Zi Xun''s forgiveness appeared on her face.


    At this moment, Zhongshan sat on the dragon throne, eyes closed, his brows deeply furrowed. His thumbs massaged his temples. Gu Shentong voluntarily extinguishing himself? Was that even possible? Gu Shentong was so simr to him. Having a chance at life again, would he give it up? Impossible. Absolutely impossible. Even if Gu Shentong turned into a fool, he wouldn''t abandon such an opportunity.


    Nu Qinghui, deeply crestfallen, carefully put away Zi Xun''s two tears and looked up stubbornly at Zhongshan.


    "You''ve already learned what you wanted to know. Enjoy your remaining time," Nu Qinghui said calmly.


    Zhongshan''s eyes snapped open, shooting out a cold light.


    Seeing the cold light in Zhongshan''s eyes, Nu Qinghui felt a sudden panic but forced herself to remain calm. "You can''t defeat Gu Shentong. No one can," she insisted.


    "Oh? How do you know I can''t defeat Gu Shentong? The victor is yet to be determined!" A fierce light shed in Zhongshan''s eyes.


    "What do you n to do with me? Kill me?" Nu Qinghui suddenlyughed.


    At that moment, Nu Qinghui seemed to put life and death aside. As long as Gu Shentong could live, what did her own death matter?


    Watching Nu Qinghui, Zhongshan''s eyelids twitched. He looked outward, pointed a finger, and a blue light shot out. The istion array outside the Hall of Longevity was suddenly removed.


    "Liu Wushuang!" Zhongshan called out.


    "Here, Your Majesty!" Liu Wushuang quickly rushed into the hall.


    "Take Nu Qinghui to the celestial prison, Cell Number One. No one is allowed to visit, and guards must note within a hundred feet!" Zhongshan ordered sternly.


    Liu Wushuang nced at Nu Qinghui in confusion. At this moment, Nu Qinghui had picked up her veil and put it back on.


    "Yes!" Liu Wushuang responded immediately.


    Everything felt eerie. Liu Wushuang didn''t know what had happened, but as it was the emperor''s private matter, he dared not ask further.


    Nu Qinghui, seemingly cooperative, left with Liu Wushuang, heading to the celestial prison.


    Sitting on the dragon throne, Zhongshan closed his eyes and remained silent for a while before slowly getting up. After adjusting his mood, Zhongshan left the Hall of Longevity and walked towards Bao''er''s pce in the harem. The three women were still waiting there.


    "I just saw Zi Xun flying away in tears. What happened? And why did you imprison Nu Qinghui?" Bao''er asked worriedly.


    "Yes, did you bully Zi Xun?" Tian Ling''er inquired.


    Bei Qingsi, however, smiled slightly. Compared to others'' emotions, as long as Zhongshan was fine, she was content.


    "It''s nothing. Just some matters to handle. Didn''t you all want to check if I was injured? Come on, let''s go inside and check," Zhongshan said with a smile.


    Not wanting to worry the three women, Zhongshan kept the matter to himself.


    "Okay!" The three women immediately agreed, surrounding Zhongshan as they entered the pce.


    Beneath his exterior, Zhongshan''s heart held a firm resolve: "Gu Shentong? Let''s see who is truly stronger!"

 Chapter 698: Wrapping Up the South

    <h4>Chapter 698: Wrapping Up the South</h4>


    Underworld, Huangquan Road!


    Ghosts continued to gather from all directions, jumping directly into the Huangquan Sea upon arrival. In a nearby valley, protected by an array that prevented ghosts from entering, stood a small thatched cottage guarded by seven or eight vignt members of the Tian family.


    At this moment, the new head of the Tian family, Tian Xiaozi, arrived with Xiao Wangfei andnded at the entrance.


    "Patriarch!" The guards respectfully greeted them.


    "When was this discovered?" Tian Xiaozi asked.


    "Three days ago. The old patriarch had me bring some items to him, but when I returned today, I found him like this!" one of the Tian family members said with a frown.


    Tian Xiaozi nodded and pushed open the door of the cottage.


    Xiao Wang followed closely behind. Inside, the room was very clean. In the center, the previous patriarch, Tian Ji Zi, sat cross-legged on a meditation mat, unmoving, seemingly unaware of anyone entering.


    "Patriarch, is the old patriarch dead?" Xiao Wang asked in surprise.


    Tian Xiaozi looked at Tian Ji Zi and sighed slightly. "Father, have you finally understood the Great Elder''s intentions?"


    "Patriarch!" Xiao Wang''s eyes showed a hint of fear.


    Tian Xiaozi bowed deeply to Tian Ji Zi''s body. "You will always be the father I respect the most. Although I understood the Great Elder''s thoughts, I never had your courage. Your bravery is something I will remember for life!"


    Xiao Wang furrowed his brows, seemingly having guessed the reason and looked at Tian Ji Zi''s body in shock.


    Tian Xiaozi took out a jade coffin and gently ced Tian Ji Zi''s body inside. Carrying the jade coffin, he slowly walked out of the cottage.


    "Station guards here at all times! Do not neglect this ce! Pay close attention to any wandering soulsing from the mortal realm!" Tian Xiaozimanded.


    "Yes!" The Tian family members responded immediately.


    Tian Xiaozi then took the coffin and headed back to the Tian family.


    In Jingbo Pond, Tian Xiaozi ced the jade coffin in front of a group of elders.


    "Great Elder!" Tian Xiaozi bowed deeply.


    Tian Chenzi slowly opened his eyes and nced at the jade coffin. "He''s gone?"


    "Yes, my father was a man of great courage. He has reversed the flow on Huangquan Road, taking his memories with him to reincarnate in the mortal realm," Tian Xiaozi said solemnly.


    "Indeed, Tian Ji Zi was not a mediocre person to have be the patriarch. However, over the years, power blinded him. When one''s eyes are blinded, one bes a foolish brute," Tian Chenzi said calmly.


    "Yes, I will take this as a warning!" Tian Xiaozi immediately bowed again.


    This was a reminder from Tian Chenzi, urging him to remain vignt.


    "Tian Ji Zi has gone to the mortal realm to seek the ''Heavenly Order''. Deploy more people to keep an eye on Huangquan Road," Tian Chenzi said.


    "I have already made the arrangements," Tian Xiaozi replied.


    "Also, keep a close watch on the Da Zhen Empire," Tian Chenzi added.


    "Understood!"��


    Half a yearter, in the mortal realm, the Great Qin Empire, Xianyang Sacred Capital!


    In the court, Ying listened to reports from all sides.


    "Reporting to Your Majesty, on the northern battlefield, Bai Qi has been invincible, and he is about to enter the former territory of the Da Li Empire!" Li Si reported.


    "Mm, is the decisive battle approaching?" Ying nodded.


    "Yes, the armies of Great Qin, Taishui, and Da Yong are about to converge at the former capital of Lihuo. On this northern battlefield, not only our Great Qin but also Taishui and Da Yong have been unstoppable. Da Yong''s Huan Tulong is a true war hero, and Taishui''s Wang Chen has washed all the empires with a sea of blood, demonstrating the unrivaled might of the Blood God Son," Li Si reported solemnly.


    "The Blood God Son? Yet another technique from the Great Thousand Worlds. The disciples of the Kong family certainly came prepared," Ying said with a faint smile, his expression revealing nothing.


    "Yes, the Taishui Empire has spread Confucianism widely, and their leader is called ''Sekong.'' I met him once at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. He seemed very timid at the time, but now it appears he''s quite a capable minister," Li Simented.


    "Oh?"


    "Sekong seems aware of our Great Qin''s dislike for Confucianism and has astutely avoided many of our crucial areas, establishing Confucian academies in the surrounding empires," Li Si exined.


    "Let''s keep observing," Ying said.


    "Understood."


    "Lu Buwei, have you discovered the cause of Guigu''s death?" Ying inquired.


    "Yes, it seems to be the work of the Dayong Empire," Lu Buwei replied after some thought.


    "Dayong? How unfortunate that Gu Shentong did not fall to Dayong," Ying shook his head slightly.


    "Gu Shentong? Your Majesty, are you referring to the seemingly harmless blue light Nu Qinghui released towards the luck dragon?" Lu Buwei''s eyebrows raised.


    "What do you think?" Ying responded calmly.


    Lu Buwei pondered for a moment and nodded, "If not for Your Majesty''s reminder, I might have overlooked it. Gu Shentong? Zhongshan? This is bing increasingly intriguing!"


    "Indeed, it grows more interesting by the day. What did you discover at the entrance to Changsheng Realm?" Ying asked.


    "A five-colored divine light, an unparalleled master," Lu Buwei replied solemnly.


    "Oh?"


    "Once, in the Great Thousand Worlds, the Tongtian Saint fell, and the Four Swords of Zhuxian shattered into powder, with their sword souls disappearing. After the battle at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the Zhuxian Sword and Juexian Sword were able to break free from Emperor Xuan Sha''s grip. I suspect that the so-called sword souls might be in Changsheng Realm," Lu Buwei spected.


    "Hmm, there are many imitations of the Four Swords of Zhuxian, but none are as ferocious as the originals. The Four Swords of Zhuxian in Changsheng Realm might truly be the legendary sword souls," Li Si remarked with deep admiration.


    "What use is a sword soul? Without the Tongtian Saint and the sword bodies, they are incredibly weak now," Lu Buwei sighed.


    "But they are still the sword souls of the Four Swords of Zhuxian! If they really are, then who is the person in Changsheng Realm?" Li Si pondered.


    "That person seems to be recuperating. Could it be that..." Lu Buwei furrowed his brows.


    Li Si also frowned and looked at Ying.


    "And what about the five-colored divine light?" Ying asked another question instead of responding.


    "It was earth-shattering!" Lu Buwei replied.


    "Hmm," Ying nodded.


    "Your Majesty, should we prepare to march against Changsheng Realm?" Li Si asked.


    "Not yet. Attack Changsheng Realm? Someone is more eager than us," Ying said confidently.


    "Understood."


    "Your Majesty, in the south, of the twenty remaining empires covered by Zhongshan''smercial war, fourteen have already fallen into chaos. The loyalty of ministers and the authority of emperors are in disarray. Some emperors have even been assassinated. Only six emperors remain clear-headed and have made timely counterattacks. Unfortunately, only four seeded, swiftly eliminating the rted parties. However, those four empires are now in a state of panic. These once-mighty empires are almost ruined," Lu Buweimented.


    "What a significant destruction, usingmerce to ruin a nation? Are there any within Great Qin attempting to imitate this?" Ying asked.


    "Your Majesty, yes, but they have been dealt with ording to thew," Li Si stepped forward and reported.


    "Hmm, eliminate all sources!" Ying''s eyes shed with a murderous intent.


    "Yes!"


    "Your Majesty, themercial warfare in the south is nearing its end. Zhongshan''s Da Zhen Empire''s army is about to reap the abundant rewards. Should we also...?" Lu Buwei suggested.


    "Let the newly promoted generals head south for some training," Ying nodded.


    "Yes!" Lu Buwei responded respectfully.


    Great Qin began to dispatch troops southward. Simrly, the southern empires were mysteriously thrown into chaos. The Dayong Empire''s Taizong King led his troops south, and the Taishui Empire also sent their forces southward!


    In the Da Zhen Empire, the Hall of Longevity, during the court assembly.


    "Reporting to Your Majesty, the four empires that besieged us half a year ago have beenpletely pacified," Shui Jing reported.


    "Good," Zhongshan nodded.


    "Reporting to Your Majesty, among the surrounding empires, ten have copsed. The former prime ministers and ministers of these empires have submitted petitions, requesting Your Majesty to take over their territories," Yi Yan reported with a smile.


    The court was in an uproar. Many ministers could hardly believe what they were hearing. Were these empires really asking Da Zhen to take over?


    "Hmm, the three great northern empires may have already mobilized their forces. Speed up and take control of these territories as quickly as possible!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Yi Yan responded promptly.


    The court was stunned, listening to the exchange between the emperor and his ministers as if they were hearing celestial orders. Half a year ago, Da Zhen faced numerous difficulties, besieged by four empires externally and attacked by Changsheng Realm internally, almost on the brink of destruction. But now, now everything seemed to be going too smoothly. Other empires were actually requesting Da Zhen to take over?


    "Shui Jing!" Zhongshan called.


    "Here, Your Majesty!" Shui Jing immediately responded.


    "Years ago, during the Great Luo Empire''s imperial examinations, your essay resonated with the gods, and the article was a masterpiece. This time, I appoint you as the chief examiner for Da Zhen''s imperial examinations. I hope you will select the best talents for Da Zhen to meet the needs of the nation!" Zhongshan said solemnly.


    "I will not fail Your Majesty''s high expectations! However, my writings are still far inferior to those of Your Majesty. Your praise is too generous," Shui Jing responded respectfully.


    "Hmm, court is dismissed," Zhongshan announced.


    "Dismiss the court����������������������������������������������������!"


    "Long live Your Majesty, long live, long live����������������������������������������������������!"


    After the court session, Zhongshan was about to continue researching the remnant thoughts of Gu Shentong within him when he was interrupted again.


    The visitor was the young master of the Xuanwu n, Gui She.


    "Your Majesty, the former supreme of the Xuanwu n requests an audience," Gui She reported with a frown.


    "Gui Shou? Has he passed the heavenly tribtion?" Zhongshan was slightly surprised.


    "Yes, the former supreme is about to head to the Great Thousand Worlds. Before he leaves, he wishes to meet Your Majesty onest time," Gui She exined.


    After a moment of thought, Zhongshan said, "Lead him to Tianyuan Pavilion."


    "Yes!"

 Chapter 699: Bountiful Harvest

    <h4>Chapter 699: Bountiful Harvest</h4>


    Tianyuan Pavilion!


    Zhongshan and Guishou stared coldly at each other, with Guishe standing by, unable to intervene.


    "Guilong? Zhongshan? Such audacity, within just a year, you''ve sidelined even me, the Supreme!" Guishou squinted his eyes.


    "Guests are wee, please have a seat!" Zhongshan suddenly changed his demeanor to a friendly smile.


    Guishou raised an eyebrow, feeling unable to keep up with Zhongshan''s thoughts.


    "Grandfather, please sit down!" Guishe stood beside, assisting.


    Turning to Guishe, Guishou said calmly, "Do you still consider me your grandfather?"


    "Guishe will always be your grandson, but personal matters and n affairs are separate. I cannot neglect the public for personal reasons. My disobedience was only to ensure the survival of the Xuanwu n!" Guishe asserted stubbornly.


    Upon hearing Guishe''s words, Guishou softened his expression. He sighed softly, "How do you know your choice is right? Why didn''t you discuss it with me?"


    "I''ve mentioned it to grandfather at least ten times, but at that time, grandfather seemed possessed and unwilling to listen. As for why I chose Guilong, after the battle in the Lingxiao Celestial Court, grandfather should understand it well in his heart!" Guishe raised his head.


    Frowning at Guishe, then ncing at Zhongshan, Guishou sighed again, "Ah, I won''t interfere anymore. With the Xuanwu n passed to your hands, I have fulfilled my duties to our ancestors."


    "Thank you, grandfather!" Guishe conceded.


    "Zhongshan, Snake''s decision haspletely severed ties with the Evesting Realm and aligned with Guilong. Take good care of him, or in the Grand Cosmos, I won''t spare you!" Guishou''s eyes turned cold.


    "Elder Turtle, rest assured. My word, Zhongshan''s word, has always been as solid as gold. As long as I''m here, the Xuanwu n will prosper!" Zhongshan affirmed.


    "Hmm." Guishou nodded, a hint of faint disappointment flickering in his eyes. Not disappointment in Zhongshan''s words, but in the realization that his journey had not led to what he truly desired.


    "I wonder if you came to me just for this matter?" Zhongshan inquired.


    "No, now that the Xuanwu n has joined Guilong and the Phoenix n has also joined Guilong, Guilong indeed possesses that kind of fortune. There are some things I can tell you now. I also hope that one day, you can learn the ancient divine arts, open up heaven and earth, and ascend to the Grand Cosmos." Guishou pondered.


    "Oh?"


    "This secret is something even Emperor Xuan Sha doesn''t know. It''s ancient, too ancient. Only we, the oldest of the demon beast races, know about it." Guishou continued.


    "Ancient secret?" Zhongshan was surprised.


    "In our Small Cosmos, in ancient times, there were saints who visited." Guishou exined.


    "Saints? Beyond Celestial Immortality, isn''t it impossible to enter the Small Cosmos?" Zhongshan frowned.


    "Beyond Celestial Immortality, it''s impossible, but saints can. Two saints entered this Small Cosmos, seemingly for the sake of contending for a technique called ''Heavenly Scriptures''. However, the might of saints is too great. They feared shattering this Small Cosmos and attracting boundless karma, so the saints did not act, but insteadpeted through the forces of the world. At that time, our Xuanwu n participated and was bestowed with abined formation, named the ''Four Phenomena Great Formation'', used to contend for supremacy!" Guishou recounted.


    "The Phoenix n was also like you?" Zhongshan furrowed his brows.


    "Yes, at that time, the Phoenix n was also a great n. Ourbined formation required the participation of four ns: Xuanwu, Phoenix, Dragon, and Tiger. When the formations of the four ns were activated together, it shook heaven and earth!" Guishou sighed.


    "Oh?"


    "You''ve already gathered Phoenix and Xuanwu. Finding Dragon and Tiger may be more difficult, but I''ll pass this formation diagram to you. I hope you will treat the Xuanwu n well!" Guishou took out a scroll.


    Staring at Guishou for a moment, Zhongshan nodded solemnly. "Thank you."


    On the side, Guishe didn''t quite understand what was going on, but Zhongshan grasped the situation clearly. Guishou''s intentions were sincere��a gesture of goodwill towards Guilong and the Xuanwu n. Now that the Xuanwu n had once defected, if Zhongshan were to abandon them as well, no faction in the Evesting Realm would be willing to ept the Xuanwu n again. Once betraying once, there would inevitably be a second time. Who would dare to ept them then? The fate of the Xuanwu n would be sealed.


    Guishou could have kept the formation diagram secret from Zhongshan. After all, gathering four demon beast ns was nearly impossible��a n in Dayong, another in Daqin��how could they unite? However, by handing it over to Zhongshan, it became his responsibility. It was also a way to increase the Xuanwu n''s leverage within Guilong.


    The Four Phenomena Great Formation?��


    In a city in the southern part of Shenzhou, inside a tavern.


    "Do you know? The courtiers collectively rebelled against His Majesty. His Majesty was actually killed at Nanwu Gate, and then the country''s name was changed to Guilong!" a man eximed in surprise.


    "Of course we know. Who doesn''t know this now? Guilong is incredibly wealthy. They''ve even bought off the entire civil and military officials!" another person remarked.


    "Do you know anything? Buy them off? These ministers hand over countless spirit stones to Guilong''s imperial court every day!"


    "Really? Are these ministers so foolish? Handing over spirit stones, aiding Guilong''s rebellion, and now even Guilong''s army hase to take over!" another person eximed incredulously.


    "You don''t know about this?"


    "Please enlighten us!"


    "That''s because the Great Glory Trading Company was founded by Guilong the Emperor himself."


    "The Great Glory Trading Company? That Great Glory Trading Company?" someone gasped.


    "Of course, the Great Glory Trading Companyunched the Scenic Jade Disc, which sold like crazy. I''m just a second-tier member myself. How about it, any interest? I can take you in. As long as you''re willing, I guarantee you''ll earn 100,000 spirit stones a day half a yearter!"


    "100,000 spirit stones? Is that true?"


    The man narrowed his eyes. "Of course it''s true, and they''re all top-grade spirit stones. Do you think those ministers are fools? They can earn a million lower-grade spirit stones in a day. That''s a billion lower-grade spirit stones!"


    "But...!"


    "But what? With your measly shop, what can you achieve? Come with me. In the future, there''ll be more spirit stones than you can spend."


    ...Another imperial dynasty.


    "All members listen up! Today, headquarters sent someone. Let''s charge the Lord''s Mansion together. They blocked our path to wealth. They''ve cut off our spirit stone supply. Tell me, should we break through!"


    "Break through~~~~~!" Everyone shouted in unison.


    "Down with the corrupt officials!"


    "Down with the corrupt officials~~~~~!"


    ...Another imperial dynasty. Emperor''s study.


    "Your Majesty, what should we do? Most of the city lords have dered their allegiance. We''re left with only this court. The outside world is filled with opposition!" an anxious courtier asked.


    "Most? Aren''t there still a few left?" the Emperor asked angrily.


    "A few, those few were overwhelmed by the people!"


    "Father Emperor, in our neighboring kingdoms, the Emperor has been assassinated by courtiers. Father Emperor, beware of all court officials!"


    "Kill them all!"


    ...At another city.


    "Lieutenant, Guilong''s army is here!" a soldier shouted.


    "Quickly, open the city gates! All officials in the city,e with me to greet Guilong''s army!" the city lord eximed excitedly.


    "But, sir, is this really appropriate...?" the soldier frowned slightly.


    "Are you mad? Other city lords just need to wee Guilong''s army to upgrade their membership level. What level are you now?" The city lord red.


    "Upgrade a level? Yes, sir, I''ll go immediately!" The soldier hurried off.


    ...In the south, the atmosphere was thick with the influence of the ''Scenic Jade Disc''. Major imperial dynasties were also struggling. Guilong''s army effortlessly took over many empires.


    One, two, three,... eleven!


    In three years, Guilong''s imperial dynasty easily harvested eleven empires. By this time, the forces of the Three Great Heavenly Dynasties had almost all gathered here. The subjects were loyal to Guilong, not to the Three Great Heavenly Dynasties, so they did not have as smooth a path as Guilong.


    The remaining nine empires posed some difficulty in capture. After smoothly advancing, Guilong finally weed the long-awaited battles.


    Along the way, Guilong took down two more empires.


    In General Yiyans'' camp.


    "Marshal, why not let me continue? We could still capture at least one or two more empires!" Iron Blood eximed.


    "No need. Let the rest of the empires go. We have to give the Three Great Heavenly Dynasties some soup while we enjoy the meat. Use these empires to drain the Three Great Heavenly Dynasties of their fire. Otherwise, if we take more empires, we will really fight with the Three Great Heavenly Dynasties. In front of the world situation, one or two empires are nothing!" General Yiyans said solemnly.


    "Yes!" Iron Blood nodded.


    At this point, of the southern twenty-four empires, Guilong officially harvested seventeen. By seizing a single empire, it harvested seventeen empires, a great harvest that would be remembered throughout history.


    Inexhaustible fortune gathered towards the Lingxiao Celestial Court, growing more and more, with the immense fortune illuminating the entire sky. Even at night, the Lingxiao Celestial Court was as bright as day.


    A massive empire, an empire with more fortune than any heavenly dynasty, the First Empire of all time!


    In the Tianyuan Pavilion.


    Zhongshan looked at his counselors.


    "Shuijing, these talents selected through the imperial examinations have been screened. Their loyalty is assured. Send them to various major cities we''ve taken over to assume key positions as quickly as possible!" Zhongshan said in a deep voice.


    "Yes!"


    "Your Majesty, we''ve swallowed these empires, but the influence of pyramid schemes is too great. I fear it will cause even greater destruction in the future. When should we abolish it?" General Yiyans asked worriedly.


    After pondering deeply for a moment, Zhongshan said solemnly, "Wait another year. Within that year, the talents identified through our imperial examinations will rece all senior members'' positions of power. By then, we''ll enter the final stage of the Great Whale Swallow n��decapitate and take the pce!" Zhongshan dered in a deep voice.


    "Yes!"

 Chapter 700:The world is divided into four parts

    <h4>Chapter 700:The world is divided into four parts</h4>


    One yearter, in the Guilong Imperial Dynasty!


    Across a vast expanse, the Scenic Jade Disc had be a symbol��a symbol of making money. As long as one was associated with the Scenic Jade Disc, endless spirit stones would flow in.


    In a city known as Bahuang City, within the residence of the newly appointed city lord.


    Today, a grand feast for guests!


    "Congrattions, Lord Lin, on bing a Level Eight member! Just one step away from the top!" a man raised his ss in congrattions.


    "Hehe, I haven''t been the lord for a long time. Why do you still call me that? Isn''t this making me ufortable?" Lord Lin smiled.


    "Lord Lin, you''re being too modest. Although the title of city lord has changed hands, everyone knows you''re still the real lord here. The new city lord is just a Level Three member. He''s been eager to rece you, but it''s simply impossible!"


    "Be cautious in your words, my friend," Lord Lin chuckled, though inwardly enjoying thepliment.


    "Today, we high-level members gather to speak freely. Lord Lin, please don''t hold back!"


    "Hahaha, very well. But once we leave my residence, no more talk!" Lord Linughed.


    "Of course, of course!"


    Amidst the lively conversation, suddenly, a blue light shot up from outside, followed by countless other blue lights surrounding the mansion.


    Lord Lin''s face turned pale.


    "Lord Lin, what kind of show is this?" a tipsy guestughed.


    "Not good, my lord, my lord! There are arge number of troops outside surrounding our mansion. They''ve set up an Eighth-level killing array. My lord...!" a servant rushed in, panting.


    The cup in Lord Lin''s hand dropped as he realized the severity of the situation.


    The banquet fell silent.


    Quickly, everyone followed Lord Lin to the entrance, where the gates were already enveloped by a grand array. There was no escape. Outside, arge army was led by General Iron Blood.


    "General Iron Blood, what is the meaning of this? We were just drinking together not long ago. What''s happening?" Lord Lin asked anxiously.


    General Iron Blood''s face showed no emotion as he nced at those inside. "By order of His Majesty, the Guilong Imperial Dynasty prohibits pyramid schemes. Those involved will be executed on the spot!"


    "What?" Lord Lin eximed in shock.


    "Execute them!" Iron Blood repeated coldly.


    Upon hearing this, everyone trapped inside shuddered.


    "You can''t kill us all!" Lord Lin cried out.


    "Lord Lin, for the first batch, execute members of Level Five and above. Those below Level Five, without the supply of Scenic Jade Discs, will naturally disperse. me yourselves for being too greedy, which has now threatened the nation!" Iron Blood shook his head.


    "No, no, I have spirit stones! I have plenty of spirit stones! Let me go, and I''ll give them all to you!" one person panicked and pleaded.


    Iron Blood gave a cold nce.


    "100,000? A million? Billions? All of it!" the person shouted.


    "Execute!" Iron Blood''s voice rang out coldly.


    "Execute!!!" The soldiers roared in unison, and the Eighth-level killing array erupted into action.


    Almost overnight, a bloody massacre took ce in all the cities under the Guilong Imperial Dynasty. It was exceptionally cruel but unavoidable.


    The Scenic Jade Disc was no longer supplied, and the Great Glory Trading Companypletely halted its distribution. In the Guilong Imperial Dynasty, anyone caught involved in the pyramid scheme was executed on the spot!


    In a swift and decisive action, all the major culprits were eliminated. These high-level members were intelligent, but their ambitions had grown wild, and they couldn''t be allowed to remain. Everything had to be overturned.


    Members below Level Five tried to rebel, but under the might of the state machinery, they were utterly powerless.


    The Great Whale Swallow n, in its final step, culminated in a decapitation strike!


    Guilong officially dominated the South! It became the overlord of Shenzhou! The next step was to recuperate and prepare for the final push to upgrade to a heavenly dynasty.


    In less than ten years, Guilong had recovered a vast and prosperous territory, shocking the world. An imperial dynasty? The Guilong Imperial Dynasty? Zhongshan? Every event was grand and majestic. Looking back on Zhongshan''s life, one felt nothing but grandeur and magnificence.


    Countless talents flocked to the Guilong Imperial Dynasty. Although it was just an imperial dynasty, it exceeded everyone''s expectations. Zhongshan was no longer just a respected figure; he had be an idol. Numerous talents admired Zhongshan and yearned for the Guilong Imperial Dynasty, heading towards it.


    What Zhongshan needed now was merely time, just time��


    In the eastern part of Shenzhou, in a small mortal town. Inside a teahouse.


    The storyteller, holding a folding fan, said, "Today, I''ll continue to tell you about the divine Zhongshan, the most glorious, legendary, and mythical figure under the heavens."


    The teahouse was packed, with everyone listening intently to the storyteller.


    In a corner, a child of six or seven years old stared at the storyteller, his brows furrowed, looking like a small adult.


    "Zhongshan? The Guilong Imperial Dynasty? There''s a Guilong Imperial Dynasty even in the mortal realm?" The child''s eyes narrowed, an expression far beyond his years.


    ncing at the enthusiastic audience, the child coldly smiled and stepped out of the teahouse.


    The child walked out of the teahouse, heading towards the town''s outskirts.


    "Erwa, Erwa, mother is calling you home for dinner!" A young boy ran over, calling out to the child.


    The child turned, gave a cold stare, causing the boy to shiver.


    "From now on, call me ''Tianjizi''!" The child said solemnly.


    "Oh, oh!" The boy nodded��


    In the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty, in Xianyang Holy Capital, within the court.


    "Your Majesty, it''s like this! Guilong massacred a million people in one night, without even letting them cough up their spirit stones before killing them," L�� Buwei eximed.


    "Clean and decisive, the mark of a true hero!" Ying nodded in approval.


    "Indeed, after that night of ughter, Shenzhou lost trillions of spirit stones, a grand move!" Li Si sighed.


    "Hmm, has Bai Qi returned?" Ying inquired.


    "He should be on his way. With Bai Qi''s intervention, the area under the Great Li Heavenly Dynasty will be within our grasp. In this northern campaign, our Great Qin has seized forty percent of thend, with Dayong and Taisui each taking thirty percent," Li Si reported respectfully.


    "Hmm," Ying nodded.


    "However, this northern turmoil has truly given the Guilong Imperial Dynasty a huge advantage. An imperial dynasty has swallowed seventeen others like a whale, making everyone sit up and take notice!" Li Si marveled.


    "This is the scheme of Nie Fancheng. Nie Fancheng? During the siege of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, I already sensed he was no simple man. I didn''t expect, after leaving the Small Thousand World, he could set up such a grand scheme," Ying nodded, sighing in admiration.


    "Yes, the great Qin and Tai Sui each control thirty percent of the Shenzhou world, while Da Yong and Da Xiong each hold twenty percent. The division of the world is bing increasingly clear: the world is divided into four parts - the great Qin, Tai Sui, Da Yong, and Da Xiong. Your Majesty, given the current situation, should we continue our conquest?" Li Si asked respectfully, bowing deeply.


    "Four parts of the world?" Ying gently tapped the armrest of the dragon throne with his fingers.


    Everyone waited silently.


    "Rest and recuperate. Great battles are inevitable, but not now!" Ying dered.


    "Yes!" The ministers responded in unison.


    Thirty yearster, the Shenzhou world had entered a rare period of peace, with norge-scale wars. Throughout thend, only four major powers vied for prominence: the great Qin, Da Yong, Da Xiong, and Tai Sui. For thirty years, these four powers had developed quietly without disturbing each other.


    In a quiet valley at the southeastern border between Da Xiong and Da Yong, Xuan Yuan, the master of the Creation Divine Pce, meditated with his eyes closed. He seemed indifferent to the affairs of the world.


    After all, the struggle for territory was the pursuit of those seeking fame and fortune. Xuan Yuan, however, focused on umting virtue and was naturally less concerned with such matters.


    Hanging from Xuan Yuan''s chest was a jade pendant, the shattered soul of his wife, obtained by Zhong Shan from the underworld.


    Holding the jade pendant in his hand, Xuan Yuan gazed at it tenderly.


    "One day, I will restore you!" Xuan Yuan vowed with deep affection.


    Carefully hanging the pendant back, he prepared to continue his meditation. Suddenly, his pupils contracted, and his expression changed.


    "Are invaders from the Grand Thousand World here again?" Xuan Yuan frowned.


    "What audacity, to directly invade the Yang realm! Such boldness!" A cold light shed in Xuan Yuan''s eyes.


    In an instant, Xuan Yuan disappeared, fulfilling his duty to the Creation Divine Pce by going to eliminate the invaders from the Grand Thousand World.


    Two monthster, in the Da Xiong Imperial Dynasty.


    Zhong Shan presided over the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, where everything proceeded in an orderly manner. The priority for Da Xiong was to rest and recuperate. Thirty years had passed, but for Zhong Shan, it was still not enough; Da Xiong needed further development.


    After the morning assembly, as Zhong Shan stepped down from the dragon throne, Liu Wushuang came to report.


    "Your Majesty, the master of the Creation Divine Pce, Xuan Yuan, requests an audience," Liu Wushuang announced.


    "Oh? Where is he?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "I have led him to the Taihua Hall. However, it seems that Xuan Yuan is seriously injured," Liu Wushuang exined.


    "Seriously injured? Who could have hurt him so badly?" Zhong Shan was even more surprised.


    Quickly, Zhong Shan followed Liu Wushuang to one of the halls.


    Liu Wushuang stayed outside while Zhong Shan entered.


    Inside, Xuan Yuan''s hair was somewhat disheveled, with three bloodstains on his face and his clothes tattered. He sat cross-legged on a cushion, seemingly healing his wounds.


    "Xuan Yuan? Who did this to you?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    Xuan Yuan slowly opened his eyes, took a deep breath, and then smiled bitterly, "This time, Shenzhou might be in great trouble."

 Chapter 701: Disciples of the Celestial Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 701: Disciples of the Celestial Emperor</h4>


    Xuan Yuan slowly opened his eyes, took a deep breath, and then smiled bitterly, "This time, Shenzhou might be in great trouble!"


    "Great trouble?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    From Xuan Yuan''s words, Zhong Shan could sense the gravity of the situation. Who could have injured Xuan Yuan so severely? Even the six great Earth Immortals couldn''t manage to harm him back then.


    "Another invasion from the Grand Thousand World. This time, they are even more formidable than the six Earth Immortals from before. They were sent here by powerful beings who broke through the Yang Realm''s barrier," Xuan Yuan exined.


    "Broke through the Yang Realm''s barrier?" Zhong Shan was slightly shocked.


    The Yang Realm''s barrier was incredibly strong. Who could break through it? In Zhong Shan''s memory, only one, no, three people had managed to do so. One was a powerful being from the Grand Thousand World who resembled Bao''er, and the other two were saints mentioned by Gui Shou. The fact that they could break through the barrier indicated their immense power. Moreover, from Xuan Yuan''s tone, it seemed more than one person had arrived. What were they after? Could it be the Dragon n''s Imperial Seal again?


    "Yes, as soon as the barrier was breached, I went to investigate. There were eleven of them in total, ten Earth Immortals, each more formidable than the Qinglong of the past. I was injured by three of these Earth Immortals," Xuan Yuan sighed.


    "Three Earth Immortals? Did you use the ''Three-Part Self'' technique?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning in surprise.


    "Yes," Xuan Yuan nodded.


    Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes. Xuan Yuan couldn''t defeat even one Earth Immortal?


    "Weren''t there eleven of them? Ten Earth Immortals, who is thest one?" Zhong Shan asked, staring at Xuan Yuan.


    "Their leader didn''t make a move, but it''s clear he''s stronger than all the Earth Immortals," Xuan Yuan said, taking a deep breath.


    "A Heavenly Immortal?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    After a heavy look at Zhong Shan, Xuan Yuan nodded.


    A Heavenly Immortal? Even if their cultivation was suppressed in the Small Thousand World, it would still be equivalent to the twelfth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm, the ultimate level in the Small Thousand World. Moreover, they must have numerous secret techniques from the Grand Thousand World.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan finally understood the meaning of Xuan Yuan''s words: "Shenzhou is in great trouble." Such a group of powerful beings would cause upheaval in this realm; they were forces to be reckoned with.


    After a moment of silence, Zhong Shan asked, "Do you know who they are and their purpose foring to the Small Thousand World?"


    "I don''t know their purpose, but I did find out where they came from," Xuan Yuan said, taking a deep breath.


    "Oh?"


    "The leader is called ''Sima Ce,'' and he is a disciple of the Celestial Emperor of the Taichu Sacred Court," Xuan Yuan said solemnly.


    "Sima Ce? Taichu Sacred Court? Disciple of the Celestial Emperor?" Zhong Shan frowned, pondering these terms.


    The Sacred Court? What is the Sacred Court? In the book "Forging the Heavenly Court," which Zhong Shan used to establish his own dynasty, it mentioned that the ultimate goal was to be a Sacred Court. Just like the ancient divine powers who created the world, if sessful, they would be promoted to a Sacred Court. The ruler of a Sacred Court is called the ''Sacred King,'' and their position is elevated to ''Holy Rank,'' a thousand times faster in cultivation, on par with the Buddha. The dynasty above the Celestial Dynasty is called the Sacred Court, overseeing the heavens and seeing through the world.


    That is the true supreme ruler of the universe. The Taichu Sacred Court?


    And Sima Ce, a disciple of the Celestial Emperor of the Taichu Sacred Court, is an important official in the Taichu Sacred Court.


    A Heavenly Immortal is merely an official on a mission? How powerful must the Taichu Sacred Court be? Fortunately, only those below saints can enter. Saints generally do not personally intervene in the Small Thousand World.


    "Sima Ce? A disciple of the Celestial Emperor? A Heavenly Immortal?" Zhong Shan pondered for a moment, then shook his head and said, "You don''t need to worry. Their purpose will likely be revealed soon enough. Moreover..."


    "Moreover, what?" Xuan Yuan frowned.


    "Moreover, this isn''t the underworld; it''s the Yang Realm. The waters here run very deep. Even a Heavenly Immortal cannot determine the fate of this world. The grand trend of the world cannot be shaken by them. No matter what they do, the world will continue as it always has!" Zhong Shan dered confidently.


    "Oh?" Xuan Yuan looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Shenzhou has produced a supreme expert like Gu Shentong, and there will surely be a second and a third. The Small Thousand World is not just a burden for your Creation Divine Pce; it is everyone''s ''home''," Zhong Shan said with a deep breath.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Xuan Yuan felt a sense of relief. Then, he frowned and looked at Zhong Shan, "Is that true?"


    "It is absolutely true!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    Xuan Yuan nodded.


    "For the time being, stay in Lingxiao Heavenly Court to recuperate," Zhong Shan suggested.


    "Alright."


    Among the three major dynasties��Da Qin, Da Yong, and Da Xiong��there was a small, neutral imperial dynasty. However, its capital, Liucheng, was now devoid of fortune andpletely copsed. Countless cultivators were enved to build a massive circr structure.


    In arge valley north of Liucheng.


    On the left side of the valley, there was a pile of spirit stones. At the center, a ferocious beast stood three zhang high with green skin. The beast resembled a tree root with wrinkled skin, two arms, and two legs. Its eyes were under its arms, and it had a huge mouth that greedily devoured the surrounding spirit stones.


    As soon as the spirit stones entered its mouth, they disappeared, as if its stomach were a bottomless pit that could never be filled.


    On the right side of the valley stood a middle-aged man. He wore light, simple clothing and held a giant bow, shooting arrows toward the foot of the distant mountain.


    These were not arrows infused with mystical power, but ordinary feathered arrows.


    One arrow after another was shot with precise aim and perfect strength.


    After a series of shots, the arrows formed the character "Ce" at the foot of the distant mountain.


    Seemingly satisfied with his skill and uracy, the man smiled faintly. He extended his hand, and someone immediately stepped forward to respectfully take the giant bow.


    The man took out a handkerchief and gently wiped his hands. A few subordinates stood nearby.


    "Sir, that Xuan Yuan escaped, and we don''t know where he is hiding," one subordinate reported, bowing.


    "The body of creation? This Small Thousand World actually has such a genius!" The man frowned as he wiped his hands.


    "No matter how talented the Small Thousand World is, they can''t be a match for you, sir. You are a disciple of the Celestial Emperor from the Taichu Sacred Court. There are only 108 disciples of the Celestial Emperor in the entire Taichu Sacred Court," the subordinate said respectfully.


    This man was none other than Sima Ce, the Heavenly Immortal who had descended from the Grand Thousand World, along with his subordinates.


    Sima Ce smiled faintly at the subordinate''s ttery. "What have you found out?"


    "Reporting to you, sir, we have found out that this Small Thousand World has three great celestial dynasties: Da Yong, Da Qin, and Tai Sui. However, there is also a peculiar imperial dynasty," the subordinate reported respectfully.


    "Oh? A peculiar imperial dynasty?" Sima Ce sneered slightly. To him, an imperial dynasty was nothing.


    "The imperial dynasty is called ''Da Xiong.'' This Small Thousand World is called ''Shenzhou.'' Thend of Shenzhou is currently divided into four parts. Da Qin and Tai Sui each upy three parts, Da Yong two parts, and Da Xiong almost two parts as well," the subordinate exined respectfully.


    "Oh? An imperial dynasty upying twenty percent of the world?" Sima Ce showed a hint of surprise.


    "Yes, this happened thirty years ago," the subordinate replied.


    "So, the celestial dynasties of this Small Thousand World aren''t much, if they can be equaled by an imperial dynasty? Hmph!" Sima Ce sneered.


    "You''re wise, my lord!" the subordinate ttered once again.


    It''s no wonder Sima Ce looked down on the celestial dynasties. Having spent a long time in the Taichu Sacred Court, his perspective on the worldly dynasties was different, much like how Zhong Shan viewed mortal kingdoms��no matter how powerful a mortal kingdom was, it was still a mortal kingdom.


    Thus, Sima Ce underestimated the Da Xiong Imperial Dynasty and, by extension, looked down on the three celestial dynasties as well. He never considered that this imperial dynasty might be very powerful.


    Sima Ce didn''t need to know, just as Zhong Shan didn''t need to delve into the intricacies of a few Golden Core cultivators'' disputes and strengths.


    "How is the construction of the altaring along?" Sima Ce asked.


    "It''s almost finished, just a few more days," the subordinate replied.


    "Good."


    "Anything else, my lord?" the subordinate asked.


    Sima Ce turned his gaze to the left side of the valley, where the grotesque, green-skinned beasty devouring spirit stones with delight.


    "Tao Tie, ranked ny-ninth among the divine beasts of the Grand Thousand World. To make it onto the list means it''s an extraordinary creature. My lord, you were able to subdue it; I am truly impressed!" the subordinate praised again.


    Indeed, Sima Ce felt pleased with thepliment and nodded, "Tao Tie enjoys the spirit stones of this Small Thousand World. Find more for it."


    "Yes!" the subordinate responded immediately.


    Five dayster.


    Sima Ce stood in Liucheng, where a colossal altar, a hundred zhang tall and a thousand zhang in diameter, had been constructed. Sima Ce, along with Tao Tie and his subordinates, stood by the altar, watching. The city''s residents had long been driven out, leaving them homeless.


    Tao Tie was greedily stuffing various magical treasures into its mouth, as if its stomach could never be satisfied.


    "Alright, begin the ritual to stir the world''s fortune!" Sima Ce ordered.


    "Yes!" Ten Earth Immortals responded immediately.


    The ten Earth Immortals took positions at ten different points around the altar, each taking out a disc. They infused their magic into the discs, which glowed with golden light that shot toward the altar.


    Suddenly, the altar radiated a brilliant golden light that soared into the sky.


    "Vroom~~~"


    The entire world seemed to vibrate with a strange frequency, causing no physical destruction but making people feel drowsy.


    An hourter.


    In the Da Xiong Imperial Dynasty, the morning assembly suddenly halted.


    Zhong Shan, apanied by his ministers, stepped out of the grand hall. In the sky, the fortune of the Da Xiong Imperial Dynasty surged turbulently, like waves in a stormy sea. Even the neen-wed golden dragon of fortune seemed ufortable. It nced at the clouds of fortune, then roared toward the sky.


    "Roar~~~"


    With a dragon''s roar, the clouds of fortune stabilized, but Zhong Shan''s brow remained deeply furrowed. The golden dragon of fortune also turned to look toward the northeast. The direction it pointed directly aligned with Liucheng, where Sima Ce was located.

 Chapter 702: The Great Celestial Conference

    <h4>Chapter 702: The Great Celestial Conference</h4>


    The fortune of the Da Xiong Imperial Dynasty churned turbulently, and the same was true for other celestial dynasties.


    In the Great Qin Celestial Dynasty, during the morning assembly, the ministers suddenly fell silent. Ying raised his head to the sky, and although he did not leave the hall, it was as if he could see everything clearly.


    The aura surrounding the divine ministers suddenly roared up as if it might copse at any moment. The sky above changed dramatically. Was the fortune of the Great Qin unstable?


    Ying coldly stared at the sky.


    "Hmph!" Ying snorted.


    An infinite amount of fortune was suddenly suppressed, calming down. Simultaneously, Ying''s gaze turned southeast, directly towards Liucheng.


    "Your Majesty, people from the Grand Thousand World have arrived!" L�� Buwei said solemnly.


    "The Taichu Sacred Court," Ying said calmly.


    "People from the Taichu Sacred Court?" L�� Buwei frowned.


    Li Si, standing nearby, thought for a moment and said, "Your Majesty, could it be that the Taichu Sacred Court also has designs on this Small Thousand World?"


    "That depends on whether they have the capability," Ying replied with a cold smile.


    The ministers all turned their gazes southeast, their eyes turning cold.


    The Great Qin Celestial Dynasty suppressed its fortune.


    The same situation urred in the Great Yong Celestial Dynasty and the Tai Sui Celestial Dynasty. However, being celestial dynasties, they had more profound foundations than Zhong Shan''s Da Xiong and quickly stabilized their fortunes. Gu Zhengyi and Kong Lietian both looked towards Liucheng.


    The four great celestial dynasties suppressed everything in an instant, but the remaining smaller imperial dynasties and the few other celestial dynasties took three hours to recover their fortunes. All the rulers watched this scene in shock.


    What exactly happened there? What could cause our fortunes to fluctuate so wildly?


    For a moment, the small city of Liucheng became the focal point of the world. What could influence the fortunes so dramatically?


    Spies from all directions rushed towards Liucheng. The thirty years of peace might being to an end, and it was uncertain who would emerge victorious this time.


    In Liucheng, after four hours of turmoil, the massive altar suddenly turned to dust. The golden light vanished, and the ten Earth Immortals gathered before Sima Ce again.


    "My lord, four hours is enough to unsettle the hearts of the people in the celestial dynasties!" one subordinate said with a smile.


    "Indeed, those four hours have announced our arrival to the entire world!" Sima Ce nodded.


    "What should we do next?" a subordinate asked.


    "A year from now, in this very ce, we will hold the Great Celestial Conference. Now, go deliver invitations to the three celestial dynasties!" Sima Ce ordered.


    "Yes!"


    "My lord, what about the Da Xiong Imperial Dynasty?" a subordinate asked.


    "An imperial dynasty? Normally, an imperial dynasty would not be qualified. However, since this one can im twenty percent of the world, invite them as well! One more won''t matter at the Great Celestial Conference," Sima Ce said after some thought.


    "Yes!"


    "During this year, gather all the information about the celestial dynasties and all major events of the past three hundred years and report them to me!" Sima Ce instructed.


    "Yes!"


    A monthter, in Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    In Tianyuan Pavilion, Zhong Shan held a golden invitation. Liu Wushuang stood before him, and a group of strategists stood on either side.


    Looking at the invitation, Zhong Shan frowned slightly. The invitation read:


    <strong>One year from the day when the fortunes of your dynasty churned,e to my ce to attend the Great Celestial Conference!</strong>


    <strong>�� Sima Ce</strong>


    Seeing this brief message, Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, a cold light shing within them.


    "Such arrogance from Sima Ce!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Sima Ce didn''t mention the location because if one couldn''t find the source of the turbulent fortune, they weren''t qualified to attend the so-called Great Celestial Conference. Additionally, the tone of Sima Ce''s message was filled with an air of superiority.


    "Where is the person who delivered the invitation?" Zhong Shan asked Liu Wushuang.


    "The messenger left the invitation at the North Heaven Gate and left. ording to the soldier who received it, the messenger was extremely arrogant and disappeared immediately after delivering the letter," Liu Wushuang exined.


    "Your Majesty, is this invitation from Sima Ce?" Yi Yan asked, frowning slightly.


    "Take a look for yourselves," Zhong Shan said, handing the invitation to the group.


    As the ministers passed the invitation around, they all raised their eyebrows upon reading it. This Sima Ce was indeed extremely arrogant.


    "From the looks of it, the fortunes of all the celestial dynasties must have churned on that day. This means that the invitation was sent only to the rulers of the celestial dynasties for the Great Celestial Conference?" Shui Jing pondered.


    "Yes, this isn''t just aimed at me. Ying, Gu Zhengyi, and Kong Lietian should have all received invitations as well," Zhong Shan nodded, speaking seriously.


    "Will Your Majesty go?" Shui Jing asked.


    "The Great Celestial Conference? What a grand im. Sima Ce may be arrogant, but he has the capability to back it up. This conference could very well decide the fate of the world. Since the invitation has been delivered, I will go," Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "But, Your Majesty, this journey will undoubtedly be extremely dangerous!" Shui Wuhen said, frowning.


    "Dangerous, certainly. In the struggle for the world, every decision is fraught with danger. How can we hope to dominate the world if we fear danger? I will go, and so will Kong Lietian, Gu Zhengyi, and Ying," Zhong Shan said resolutely.


    "Will Your Majesty appoint any apanying officials?" Shui Wuhen asked.


    The ministers all looked at Zhong Shan, awaiting his decision on who would apany him.


    "You don''t need to go. I will take Di Xuanyu with me," Zhong Shan decided.


    Di Xuanyu? With Di Xuanyu, even if they couldn''t defeat their enemies, Zhong Shan''s safety should not be an issue. The ministers felt reassured knowing Di Xuanyu would be apanying him.


    In the Great Qin Celestial Dynasty, during the morning assembly.


    "The Great Celestial Conference?" Ying smirked, tossing the invitation forward.


    L�� Buwei caught it, nced at it, and then passed it to Li Si, who in turn handed it to the other ministers.


    "Your Majesty, it seems Sima Ce has indeede for this Small Thousand World. The Taichu Sacred Court really does intend to plot against our world!" Li Si remarked with augh.


    "Sima Ce? Have you heard of him before?" Ying asked indifferently.


    "There are no previous records of him. He is likely a newly appointed official of the Taichu Sacred Court. Given the importance of this covert mission, he is probably one of the new disciples of the Celestial Emperor," Li Si replied calmly.


    "Indeed."


    "Your Majesty, more and more people from the Grand Thousand World, such as Ao Lie, Kong Lietian of Tai Sui, and now Sima Ce, seem to be taking an interest in our world," Li Si said with a frown.


    "It does seem quite peculiar," L�� Buwei added solemnly.


    "Yes," Ying responded indifferently.


    "Your Majesty, how should we handle this Great Celestial Conference? Should we send an envoy, or...?" Li Si looked at Ying.


    "I will go personally. I want to see how many from the Grand Thousand World have their eyes on this Small Thousand World," Ying said calmly.


    "Yes!"


    "Your Majesty, I request to apany you," L�� Buwei spoke up.


    "Oh?" Ying looked at L�� Buwei.


    "This assembly of celestial dynasty rulers will certainly include Zhong Shan of the Da Xiong. I wish to meet this man in person," L�� Buwei bowed.


    Ying considered L�� Buwei for a moment and then nodded, "Given Zhong Shan''s character, he will surely arrive early. Since you wish to test him, you may go. Prepare to receive me when I arrive."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" L�� Buwei responded immediately.


    In the Tai Sui Celestial Dynasty, Kong Lietian handed the invitation to Shen Ya Daojun, who nced at it coldly, furrowing his brow slightly before returning it to Kong Lietian with a nod.


    In the Great Yong Celestial Dynasty, Gu Zhengyi looked at the invitation, his brow slightly furrowed.


    As Ying had predicted, Zhong Shan left Lingxiao Heavenly Court early.


    For Zhong Shan, the foundation of Da Xiong was still not as strong as the three great celestial dynasties. This Great Celestial Conference was unlikely to be a harmonious event; it was certain to be dangerous, with hidden threats. Preparation was necessary.


    Even with Di Xuanyu apanying him, Zhong Shan decided to depart early to gather intelligence and analyze the situation.


    As for Lingxiao Heavenly Court, with the protection of Nangong Sheng''s formation, Wang Ku, and Xuan Yuan, there shouldn''t be any major issues.


    Two months in advance, Zhong Shan and Di Xuanyu arrived at a city near Liucheng.


    [***] City.


    [<i><strong>] City was a small city. Originally, the Da Liu Imperial Dynasty only had two decent cities: Liucheng and this [</strong></i>] City.


    The Da Liu Imperial Dynasty was incredibly weak but survived in this chaotic world because of its remote location.


    Surrounded by wild mountains and forests, with many fierce beasts, there were very few human settlements. Only in this dynasty''s territory did arge number of humans gather, including many mortals.


    It took Zhong Shan, with his Heaven Extreme Realm cultivation, several months to fly here, so it would take much longer for those with lower cultivation levels. For a Nascent Soul cultivator, a trip here would take at least two years!


    Which army would bother invading this ce?


    Zhong Shan and Di Xuanyu stayed in [***] City temporarily, gathering information.


    Coincidentally, [***] City had a branch of the Da Rong Chamber of Commerce, where Zhong Shan and Di Xuanyu collected news about Liucheng.


    While Di Xuanyu focused on his cultivation, Zhong Shan continuously analyzed the information from various sources.


    The head of this branch, looking at Zhong Shan with admiration, stood respectfully waiting for orders.


    "Have all the residents of Liucheng been relocated?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, ten months ago, everyone was driven out. The Da Liu Imperial Dynasty is now history," the branch leader replied, bowing.


    "Continue to gather information about Liucheng. Report any unusual events within the Da Liu Imperial Dynasty''s territory to me," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" The leader bowed.

 Chapter 703: Zhong Shan and L眉 Buwei

    <h4>Chapter 703: Zhong Shan and L�� Buwei</h4>


    In the Da Rong Chamber of Commerce branch within [***] City, Zhong Shan was analyzing the information collected from all directions. The branch head, Zhao Hai, hurriedly ran in.


    "Zhao Hai, what''s so urgent?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "Your Majesty, you instructed me to monitor the surrounding news. Just after I went out, I heard something unusual in [***] City!" Zhao Hai reported immediately.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    "A mountain of Xumi stones was sold for an astronomical price!" Zhao Hai said quickly.


    "An astronomical price? Xumi stones?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    Xumi stones are used to make storage bracelets, and the quantity of Xumi stones determines the size of the storage space. Xumi stones are asmon and irreceable as spirit stones in Shenzhou. In the past, Zhong Shan used Xumi stones in his Sky Copse n. A mountain of Xumi stones would naturally contain arge quantity.


    "Yes, a mountain of Xumi stones, which should have been worth only a million high-grade spirit stones at previous prices. However, this time, after someone brought the Xumi stone mountain, it was bought by a shop for ten million high-grade spirit stones, ten times the price! As soon as the news spread, the entire city was in an uproar," Zhao Hai exined.


    "Oh? Ten times the price?" Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    "Yes, ten times the price. That''s just the purchase price. The shop ns to resell it, and if they do, they''ll make at least a twenty percent profit!" Zhao Hai added.


    "Did our Da Rong Chamber of Commerce participate in the auction?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, our chamber''srgest shop in the city specializes in Xumi stones. When outside goods arrive, our shop naturally participates. ording to the old shopkeeper, the people at the auction went crazy, driving the price up to ten times the normal rate. The old shopkeeper did not continue bidding," Zhao Hai exined.


    "What is the public''s reaction?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "They''re watching and waiting. The public''s attention ispletely focused on the Xumi stones," Zhao Hai replied.


    "Ten times the price? How many Xumi stone shops are there in the city?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "There are fifty in total. Our Da Rong Chamber of Commerce''s Xumi stone shop ranks among the top ten. With the price surge, most Xumi stone shops are buying and selling small quantities, and prices are skyrocketing," Zhao Hai said.


    "Skyrocketing?" Zhong Shan frowned, sensing something unusual.


    "Yes, our Da Rong Xumi Stone Shop is in a difficult position," Zhao Hai said worriedly.


    "Oh? Why?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "When the shop was established, I promised that prices would only decrease and never increase for a hundred years. But now this situation is making me look bad. If we don''t raise our prices while others do, everyone will rush to buy from us. Once we sell out, our reputation will be affected, and it will be hard to develop further," Zhao Hai exined, worried.


    "Hmm, your reasoning is sound," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Zhao Hai managed a rare smile.


    "What kind of shop bought the Xumi stones at ten times the price?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "It''s called the ''L�� Chamber of Commerce.'' It appeared in [***] City four months ago. As soon as it arrived, it caused a huge stir. In just four months, it became one of thergest shops in the city, developing at an astonishing speed. Every day, countless spirit stones flow into the L�� Chamber of Commerce. In four months, it''s be a market trendsetter. If it raises prices, others follow; if it lowers prices, others do the same," Zhao Hai said in amazement.


    "Oh? The L�� Chamber of Commerce? It arrived just four months ago and has already caused such a stir?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    This rapid rise and influence suggested something extraordinary. Zhong Shan knew this needed careful consideration and investigation.


    "Yes! On the first day of its opening, it was packed with people, and within a month, it was bustling every day!" Zhao Hai eximed.


    "How did the L�� Chamber of Commerce achieve this?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "On the opening day, the L�� Chamber of Commerce didn''t put on any grand disy. They simply put up a sign, and countless people flocked in," Zhao Hai exined.


    "What did the sign say?"


    "The sign said, ''Anyone who finds a defective item in the L�� Chamber of Commerce will be rewarded with a million spirit stones!'' Because of this reward, everyone who saw the sign immediately went in to scrutinize all the goods. The news spread rapidly by word of mouth," Zhao Hai said.


    "A word worth a thousand gold pieces? L�� Buwei?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    This was exactly one of L�� Buwei''s old tricks. He had once used the same tactic with his book, "L��''s Spring and Autumn Annals," offering a thousand gold pieces for anyone who could suggest a single word change. Schrs from all over flocked to read it.


    "A word worth a thousand gold pieces?" Zhao Hai didn''t understand the reference.


    "Never mind that. Tell me, did anyone find a defective item?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The L�� Chamber of Commerce is veryrge, with over a million items. It was impossible for every item to be wless. On the second day, someone did find a defective item. The L�� Chamber of Commerce publicly awarded them a million spirit stones!" Zhao Hai said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "But instead of deterring people, the discovery of the defective item only increased the crowd. The profits of the L�� Chamber of Commerce grew daily, and in just four months, it became one of the top shops in [***] City," Zhao Hai said with amazement.


    "Profit drives people. They are naturally willing to go there because they know they are getting high-quality goods. And if they happen to find a defective item, they get a million spirit stones. Who wouldn''t want that?" Zhong Shan sighed.


    L�� Buwei, a seasoned master ofmerce, had taken the concept of "a word worth a thousand gold pieces" a step further with "breaking to rebuild." That single defective item ensured the longevity of his business. It was likely that the defective item was intentionally ced by L�� Buwei.


    "Your Majesty, what should we do now?" Zhao Hai asked worriedly.


    "Have the Xumi stone shops in the city unified their prices?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No, most have adjusted their prices, but the increase varies. It seems they are waiting for the L�� Chamber of Commerce to set the standard. Once they do, many will likely follow suit. The public is hesitant to buy now, fearing the prices might drop again," Zhao Hai said.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Your Majesty, there will be another auction for Xumi stones in five days. Should we bid, even at a high cost?" Zhao Hai asked.


    "I will go with you," Zhong Shan decided.


    "Yes!"


    The next day.


    "Your Majesty, it''s out. The L�� Chamber of Commerce has raised the retail price of Xumi stones by ten times!" Zhao Hai hurriedly reported.


    "The L�� Chamber of Commerce raised their prices? What about the other Xumi stone shops?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "They raised their prices too. Most of them matched the L�� Chamber of Commerce''s increase. Nearly twenty shops followed suit exactly, while the rest have varied prices. Only a few, including ours, haven''t raised prices yet," Zhao Hai said worriedly.


    "And the public?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Some people are already rushing to buy Xumi stones. Early this morning, there were noticeably more buyers than usual," Zhao Hai said.


    "Significantly more?" Zhong Shan asked, his expression serious.


    "Yes, Your Majesty, there are no Xumi stone mines near [***] City. To procure new stock, we would need to import it from the outside world, which takes at least eight years round trip, not to mention the dangers along the way. Xumi stones can''t be stored in storage bracelets, as they lose half their effectiveness if damaged and retrieved again. Moreover, if a storage bracelet has someone else''s bloodline imprint, it means others can open it too. Such Xumi stones don''t sell well," Zhao Hai exined with a frown.


    On the third and fourth days, more and more people came to the Da Rong Chamber of Commerce to buy Xumi stones!


    On the fifth day, Zhong Shan and Zhao Hai went to inspect the store. Outside the Da Rong Xumi Stone Shop, a long line of people had formed.


    "Your Majesty, look, these people are all here to buy Xumi stones. I''ve set a limit��each person can only buy a pound of Xumi stones per day, but there''s still such a crowd!" Zhao Hai said, frowning.


    "Hmm! Let''s go and see this auction," Zhong Shan said, frowning as well.


    "Yes!"


    The two quickly arrived at arge valley. At the center of the valley was a wless white jade mound made entirely of raw Xumi stones. Another mountain of Xumi stones.


    Several big merchants had already gathered in the valley, forming various small groups, all evidently there for the Xumi stone mountain.


    With Zhao Hai''s credentials, no one stopped them, and the two walked right in.


    Zhong Shan looked at the Xumi stone mountain and then at the surrounding merchants. Suddenly, he felt a prickle on the back of his neck and turned to see someone watching him from a corner of the valley.


    He saw a well-dressed man sitting at a table, surrounded by numerous attendants, leisurely drinking wine and sampling food while waiting.


    "Your Majesty, that''s the head of the L�� Chamber of Commerce, the one sitting over there. No one knows his real name; we call him Mr. L��. He rarely shows himself, and I''ve only met him once," Zhao Hai whispered.


    Mr. L��? Zhong Shan looked at the elegantly dressed man, who seemed to have been watching Zhong Shan all along. The man raised his wine cup toward Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan was slightly surprised but then smiled and walked over.


    Zhao Hai followed closely behind.


    "Mr. L��?" Zhong Shan greeted with a slight bow.


    "Mr. Zhong, please have a seat," the man in the elegant robes replied with a faint smile.


    Zhong Shan had already guessed that this person was L�� Buwei, but he didn''t reveal it. L�� Buwei, knowing exactly who Zhong Shan was, also didn''t disclose his identity, instead inviting Zhong Shan to sit.


    Feeling a bit strange but remaining calm, Zhong Shan said, "Then I shall ept your kind offer."


    Zhong Shan sat down while Zhao Hai stood behind him.


    Seeing Zhong Shan soposed, L�� Buwei showed a hint of appreciation and a bit of amusement in his eyes.


    "Would you like to try some local delicacies from [***] City, paired with our finest wine, Mr. Zhong?" L�� Buwei asked.


    "Why not? I''ll try Mr. L��''s rmendations," Zhong Shan replied, slowly sipping the wine.


    L�� Buwei watched closely, as if trying to read Zhong Shan.


    "Smooth yet not overpowering, clear yet not cold, rich yet not greasy, refreshing and invigorating��truly excellent wine!" Zhong Shan praised.

 Chapter 704: L眉 Buwei鈥檚 Scheme

    <h4>Chapter 704: L�� Buwei''s Scheme</h4>


    Zhong Shan and L�� Buwei became the most notable figures in the auction house. While others anticipated the start of the auction, scrutinizing the Xu Mi stone mountain and the wealth of surrounding merchants, and pondering the bids they would ce, Zhong Shan and L�� Buwei enjoyed fine wine and delicacies with ease.


    Though cultivators like Zhong Shan could abstain from eating, the desire for taste often led them to savor delicious food asionally. Their unique behavior naturally drew the attention of other merchants. Among them, a merchant who considered himself highly esteemed in the [***] city businessmunity approached them with a smile. However, as he neared, L�� Buwei''s subordinates stopped him.


    Seeing this, others were slightly surprised. Who were these two men?


    "I heard Mr. Zhong started his career inmerce?" L�� Buwei looked at Zhong Shan and asked.


    "In front of Mr. L��, my endeavors are merely child''s y," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Oh? This is child''s y? What would it look like if you got serious?" L�� Buwei asked with a smile.


    "What do you think?" Zhong Shan responded with a question.


    "Hahaha...!" L�� Buweiughed, stroking his heroic mustache.


    "Let me toast to Mr. L��," Zhong Shan said.


    "Very well!" L�� Buwei nodded with a strange smile.


    After a cup of wine, L�� Buwei suddenly asked, "I heard that as soon as your Da Rong Merchant Guild arrived here, you swore that ''prices of goods will only go down, not up, for a hundred years''? Is this true?"


    Finally touching on the main topic, Zhong Shan frowned slightly and nodded, "Yes, that is true."


    "The price of Xu Mi stones has been skyrocketing. How does your Da Rong Merchant Guild intend to handle this?" L�� Buwei asked with a smile.


    "Da Rong Merchant Guild will keep its promise and never raise prices!" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    Doing business is like waging war or governing a country. If orders change frequently, how can one stabilize the world? How can a guild remain prosperous for long? Since Zhao Hai had already set a cap, Zhong Shan would definitely not go against the market.


    "Good, I admire such people the most. Let''s wait and see!" L�� Buwei toasted Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, and his heart understood. This was L�� Buwei''s provocation. He wanted to engage in amercial battle with Zhong Shan. The soaring price of Xu Mi stones in [***] city was entirely L�� Buwei''s doing.


    In the past, Zhong Shan might have ignored this. After all, he was now cultivating the ''Way of the Emperor'' and didn''t need to handle such matters personally. But L�� Buwei was different. He was a master, unlike ordinary talents. This was a rare opportunity.


    L�� Buwei had set up a grand scheme. To put it bluntly, it was because L�� Buwei esteemed him that he was given this challenge. And Zhong Shan himself wanted to test L�� Buwei''s abilities.


    This was mutual admiration among heroes��the sh of business titans!


    Raising his cup, Zhong Shan smiled, "With more than a month left until the Luntian Conference, I will apany Mr. L�� with pleasure!"


    "Clink!"


    Their wine cups shed.


    As Zhong Shan and L�� Buwei sipped their wine, a group of people approached from another exit of the valley. As they neared, a crowd of merchants surrounded them.


    The leader, a man in red, looked at everyone and said, "Ladies and gentlemen, listen to me!"


    Everyone fell silent.


    <strong>[</strong>*] City**, once remote and home to the Dayu Dynasty, had since descended into chaos after the dynasty''s fall. The orderly regime was gone, and disorder took its ce. Today, the Weiwu Guild would also withdraw from this ce, and after today, there would be no more supply of Xu Mi stones. Anyone wanting Xu Mi stones would have to procure them themselves," the man in red dered.


    "What do you mean by this?" "If you don''t supply them, what are we supposed to do?" ... The merchants became anxious.


    The man in red raised his hand, calming the crowd''s agitation.


    "The withdrawal of the Weiwu Guild is a necessity. Perhaps in a few decades or a century, when the world stabilizes, we might return. Until then, you will have to fend for yourselves. Of course, let me remind you, for transporting Xu Mi stones, you need at least a Nascent Soul stage expert to escort it, and even then, there''s only a fifty percent chance of safe delivery!" the man in red continued.


    His words left everyone feeling even more uncertain, and they could only look at him with regret.


    "This is thest Xu Mi stone mountain from the Weiwu Guild. The highest bidder wins! Please," the man in red announced.


    Thest Xu Mi stone mountain? Everyone frowned. Each one looked at the Xu Mi stone mountain with a determined look. It was clear that the price of Xu Mi stones would only rise in the next ten years.


    "Two million high-grade spirit stones!" A merchant couldn''t hold back any longer and shouted, doubling the previous price.


    "Manager Wang, are you serious? Last time it was ten million high-grade spirit stones, and now this price is ridiculous!" the man in redughed.


    "I bid ten million high-grade spirit stones!" another person called out.


    "Twelve million!" "Thirteen million!" ... The price skyrocketed as everyone wanted to get their hands on thest Xu Mi stone mountain.


    "Twenty-four million high-grade spirit stones!" another person shouted with bloodshot eyes.


    The Xu Mi stone mountain, originally worth only one million high-grade spirit stones, had soared to twenty-four times its value. Most people had already given up, unable to bear the pressure.


    Now, only two people remained in the bidding war.


    "Thir... thirty million!" another person, his neck flushed red, shouted.


    Thirty times its original value��a terrifying price hike. The announcement of thirty million left everyone gasping. At this point, no one dared to continue the bidding, no matter howpetitive they felt. Even the rival of the person who shouted the price hesitated, his lips moving but not daring to bid higher.


    The happiest person was the man in red.


    "Manager Li has bid thirty million high-grade spirit stones. Does anyone wish to raise the bid? If not, this Xu Mi stone mountain will go to Manager Li," the man in red said excitedly.


    Thirty times the original price��it was an enormous profit. The man in red even considered whether to continue the risky transportation. But he realized that it was only because this was thest time that it was so profitable, so he suppressed his hopes.


    "No more bids, right? Hahaha...!" Manager Li''s nervous and excited emotions were a bit out of control.


    Throughout the bidding war, neither Zhong Shan nor L�� Buwei had made a move.


    "Mr. Zhong, would you like to raise the bid?" L�� Buwei asked with a smile.


    "The Da Rong Merchant Guild will not raise prices. How can I buy it at thirty times the price and sell it at the original price?" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    L�� Buwei smiled faintly, "Then I''ll take it!"


    With a wave of his hand, one of L�� Buwei''s attendants called out, "Fifty million high-grade spirit stones!"


    "Wow��!" The eyes that had been riveted on the Xu Mi stone mountain suddenly turned toward Zhong Shan and L�� Buwei. The unexpected bid drew surprise, but the price left an even greater psychological impact.


    Fifty million high-grade spirit stones? Fifty times the original price! Everyone stared in disbelief. Who would spend so recklessly, paying fifty times the value?


    "My master bids fifty million. Any higher offers?" L�� Buwei''s attendant announced.


    Everyone swallowed hard. They wanted to bid, but no one had the courage. It wasn''t just a small increase; it was an additional twenty million. No one had L�� Buwei''s audacity.


    "Mr. L��, such boldness," Zhong Shan remarked, frowning.


    "Just fifty million spirit stones. I won''t lose out; I can simply raise the retail price fiftyfold!" L�� Buwei said confidently.


    "Then I shall learn from Mr. L��''s business acumen," Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    The news of the auction spread like wildfire through [***] city and all surrounding sects, thanks to some ''interested parties.''


    Fifty million high-grade spirit stones? That''s five billion low-grade spirit stones! How did Xu Mi stones be so precious?


    With the Xu Mi stone supply cut off, once the current stock was sold, there would be none left. It could take at least ten years, maybe even a hundred or a thousand, before new stock arrived. What would happen in those ten years? Xu Mi stones were essential for every cultivator. Even if someone didn''t need them, what about their juniors? Their disciples? High-level cultivators had storage equipment, but what about those with lower cultivation? Without storage equipment, it would be a death sentence.


    Low-level cultivators needed training. Cultivation wasn''t something achieved by staying at home; it required battles and wilderness training. Without storage equipment, would they carry everything in a huge backpack?


    What about elders gifting magical treasures? Should they carry them openly, inviting robbers? Storage equipment was essential. Without it, training would be nearly impossible. Staying at home for ten years was not an option, especially for young cultivators in their prime.


    Everyone realized their juniors and disciples needed storage equipment. As emotions spread, the rush to buy Xu Mi stones grew exponentially.


    As the price of Xu Mi stones soared to fifty times their original value in L��''s Merchant Guild, panic began to spread in [***] city.


    On the first day, customers began to flood the Xu Mi stone shops. On the second day, the shops were bursting at the seams.


    As customer numbers surged, so did sales, rapidly depleting stock. To avoid the reputation of running out of stock, shops had to increase prices. Sure enough, as prices rose, the number of buyers dropped significantly.


    However, the Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop continued to sell at the original price, fifty times lower than other ces.


    Few people bought from L��''s Merchant Guild, but there were long queues at the Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop.


    "Your Majesty, what should we do? The whole city is desperately buying Xu Mi stones. If we don''t raise prices, they will keep buying, and soon we''ll be sold out. Then, the city''s hottest Xu Mi stones will be gone, and our reputation will be ruined. Years of hard-earned goodwill will be lost, and we will be out of the game," Zhao Hai said worriedly.


    "How much stock do we have left?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "At this rate, just one month''s worth. It was originally ten years'' supply. Headquarters can''t send more for five years. We''ll be in danger in a month when we run out," Zhao Hai replied anxiously.

 Chapter 705: Sold Out

    <h4>Chapter 705: Sold Out</h4>


    "One month?" Zhong Shan lightly tapped his finger on the table, lost in thought.


    "Yes, at the current rate of demand, if our Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop doesn''t raise prices, we''ll bepletely out of stock in a month. Your Majesty, should we limit the daily sales or temporarily close the shop? We could wait until the frenzy dies down and then resume selling," Zhao Hai suggested with a worried expression.


    "No, continue business as usual," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Closing the shop was not an option. This wasn''t just a typical business situation; it was a confrontation with L�� Buwei. Closing the shop would be akin to admitting defeat.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," Zhao Hai replied, his face still filled with concern.


    "You may go now," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!"


    Zhao Hai left the hall, while Zhong Shan closed his eyes and continued tapping his finger on the table, pondering possible solutions.


    In a courtyard of L��''s Merchant Guild.


    L�� Buwei had fifty stalks of divining grassid out before him, seemingly calcting something. His subordinates stood by silently, not daring to interrupt. After a while, L�� Buwei shook his head and sighed, evidently gaining nothing from his calctions.


    Looking outside, L�� Buwei asked, "How are things out there?"


    "All the Xu Mi stone prices in the city are rising, except for the Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop, which still sells at the original price. The whole city knows this and is flocking there. Da Rong''s supply won''tst much longer," a subordinate reported.


    "Still the original price?" L�� Buwei''s lips curled into a peculiar smile.


    "Yes."


    Outside the Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop, a long queue had formed. High-level cultivators didn''t bother queuing themselves but sent their juniors or disciples. Those with lower cultivation levels didn''t mind waiting, especially since they were buying storage equipment.


    "Young Master Zhang Si, you''re here for Xu Mi stones too?"


    "Young Master Li Liu, you as well? Ah, our elders have us queuing here. What a disgrace!"


    "Isn''t it? But we have to buy now or miss the chance!"


    "Why?"


    "Can''t you see? Other shops charge fifty times the price, while this one sells at the original price. Once they run out, the prices everywhere will soar even higher. It''s only because of Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop that prices haven''t already skyrocketed!"


    "These greedy merchants!"


    "Well, at least the family heads are buying us storage space early. Otherwise, we''d have to wait two more years."


    "Da Rong''s shop is the best, never raising prices!"


    The long queue in front of Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop was filled with chatter, all praising the Da Rong Merchant Guild.


    At the shop entrance, Zhong Shan and Zhao Hai watched the long line of customers.


    "It''s the tenth day already," Zhao Hai''s eyes shed with worry.


    "Let''s go, we need to talk," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!"


    Back at their residence, Zhao Hai looked at Zhong Shan with concern. "Your Majesty, it''s been ten days. We only have twenty days left. We can''t hold out much longer."


    Zhong Shan remained silent for a moment before responding, "Prepare for our next move. We will not be raising prices, but we will make sure our suppliesst. We need to stabilize the market and keep our reputation intact."


    Zhao Hai nodded, though his concern did not fully abate. He trusted Zhong Shan''s judgment, but the pressure of the situation was undeniable. The next few days would be crucial in determining the oue of their standoff with L�� Buwei.


    "No worries, I''ve thought of a solution," Zhong Shan said, frowning slightly.


    "Oh? Your Majesty has a n?" Zhao Hai''s initial surprise quickly turned into delight.


    "Indeed. During my mortal days, I encountered simr situations, though the opponents weren''t as cunning as L�� Buwei. L�� Buwei is as shrewd as a fox and not easy to deal with. We need to leverage the right time, favorable terrain, and harmonious human rtions��none can becking. When I make a move, it must strike his weak point, leaving him no chance to counter. Otherwise, even a slight opportunity could allow him to turn the tables," Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    "Yes!" Zhao Hai responded, bowing respectfully.


    "As the chief executive in charge of a region, you mustmand like a general leading troops. Amander must never be disordered. You stillck experience; you need more training," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "I will certainly strive to improve myself," Zhao Hai replied respectfully.


    Twenty dayster.


    In the inner quarters of L��''s Merchant Guild.


    "No movement from Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop yet?" L�� Buwei asked gravely.


    "None. Just like ten days ago, they''re still selling at the original price," the subordinate reported.


    "They really can hold their ground," L�� Buwei sneered slightly.


    "And the other shops?" L�� Buwei asked again.


    "They''re all watching our prices. Only a few have lowered theirs slightly, but sales are still minimal. Meanwhile, Da Rong''s other shops are booming due to the Xu Mi stone frenzy," the subordinate said.


    "Winning people''s hearts, is it? Da Rong Merchant Guild?" L�� Buwei murmured with a slight frown.


    In the inner quarters of Da Rong Merchant Guild.


    "Your Majesty, we only have ten days'' worth of stock left. What should we do?" Zhao Hai asked worriedly.


    "Don''t worry," Zhong Shan said, sipping his tea.


    "Yes," Zhao Hai replied, though he remained anxious.


    On the twenty-fifth day.


    The queue outside Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop was as long as ever. Suddenly, an attendant hung a sign outside the shop.


    "Xu Mi Stones Sold Out"


    Seeing the sign, the crowd erupted.


    "No more Xu Mi stones?" "How can this be? I''ve been waiting for three days. If I go back empty-handed, my family head will kill me!"


    The crowd buzzed with anger and disappointment. After waiting for so many days, to be told there were no more stones was unbearable.


    "Everyone, please!" Zhao Hai called out loudly.


    The crowd quieted down, turning to Zhao Hai.


    "You''ve seen it yourselves. We''ve been selling continuously for over twenty days. Even with vast stock, we''ve sold out. There''s nothing left!" Zhao Hai exined.


    "How can it be sold out so suddenly?" "At least let me buy mine first!"


    The crowd was restless, but Zhao Hai raised his hand for silence.


    "However, the Da Rong Merchant Guild prides itself on its reputation. We wouldn''t have kept our prices steady otherwise. Today''s stock is gone, but our headquarters'' resupply will arrive in twenty days. Please be patient. As soon as the stock arrives, we will resume sales. Just twenty days��only twenty days!" Zhao Hai announced confidently.


    The crowd murmured, some still unhappy, but the promise of new stock in twenty days offered a glimmer of hope. The frenzy might be tempered for now, but how the situation would unfold depended on Zhong Shan''s next moves.


    "Twenty days until the restock?" the crowd murmured in confusion.


    "Yes, please be patient and wait for twenty days!" Zhao Hai reassured the public.


    Although the people were disgruntled, there was nothing they could do since Da Rong Merchant Guild had run out of stock. The promise of restocking in twenty days gave them a glimmer of hope, so they reluctantly dispersed.


    After sending off thest of the customers, Zhao Hai wiped the sweat from his brow and returned to report to Zhong Shan.


    "Your Majesty, we clearly have five more days of stock left. Why did we say we''re out?" Zhao Hai asked, puzzled.


    Looking at Zhao Hai, Zhong Shan replied, "Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak. Reflect on this deeply."


    "Understood," Zhao Hai responded, though still unsure.


    In L��''s Merchant Guild inner quarters.


    "Zhong Shan''s stock has sold out?" L�� Buwei inquired.


    "Yes," a subordinate confirmed.


    "Good. Starting tomorrow, raise the price of Xu Mi stones to sixty times the original," L�� Buweimanded.


    "Why?"


    "People are starting to panic. It''s time to fan the mes and drive them to madness. Raise the prices; I want all shops in the city to follow this price."


    "But what if some shops refuse to match our prices?"


    L�� Buwei''s eyes turned cold. "Do I need to teach you this? If they refuse to raise prices, buy out all their Xu Mi stones and then sell them at a higher price."


    "Understood," the subordinate nodded, shivering.


    In the city, inside a tavern.


    "Why hasn''t Da Rong Merchant Guild restocked their Xu Mi stones yet? The prices keep going up!" a concerned patron eximed.


    "Maybe Da Rong won''t be restocking. In such a remote ce, how much could they have stored? It might take over a decade for more to arrive."


    "L��''s Merchant Guild just raised their prices again. What are we going to do? If Da Rong doesn''t restock, the prices will rise even more."


    "I''ll buy some now. The price just jumped from sixty to seventy times. Who knows how high it will go if Da Rong doesn''t restock? It could even reach a hundred times."


    "I''ll buy a little too, just to equip my top disciple with storage gear."


    Panic spread throughout the city as everyone focused on the Xu Mi stones. Even L��''s Merchant Guild and other shops started seeing long queues of buyers.


    Twenty days passed in this state.


    L�� Buwei frowned and asked a subordinate, "Has Da Rong Merchant Guild restocked yet?"


    "Not yet! Zhao Hai said they would have stock in twenty days," the subordinate replied.


    L�� Buwei sensed something was amiss. The Luntian Conference was about to start. Was Zhong Shan nning to strike precisely at this moment?


    L�� Buwei walked out and saw the long queue outside L��''s Merchant Guild. His brow furrowed in thought.


    Suddenly, a voice from afar shouted, "It''s here! Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop has restocked!"


    "Da Rong has restocked? Let''s go buy from Da Rong instead!" The crowd cheered and quickly dispersed, leaving the queue outside L��''s Merchant Guild empty.


    L�� Buwei''s eyebrow twitched.


    "Master, something terrible has happened!" A subordinate ran over in a panic.


    "Why are you so flustered?" L�� Buwei red at him.


    "Master, Da Rong''s stock has arrived. I saw it with my own eyes. A thousand miles south of the city, Da Rong''s shipment includes thirty Xu Mi stone mountains. And that''s just the first batch. There are five more batches on the way. These Xu Mi stones are enough for every person in [***] City to get a jin!" the subordinate eximed anxiously.


    "Impossible!" L�� Buwei''s eyes widened.


    It was utterly impossible. Delivering thirty Xu Mi stone mountains in twenty days was inconceivable unless a Heaven Extreme realm expert had stooped to acting as a transporter. But L�� Buwei knew that Zhong Shan would never deploy a Heaven Extreme realm expert for such a task. It was absolutely impossible.

 Chapter 706: Breaking the Deadlock

    <h4>Chapter 706: Breaking the Deadlock</h4>


    "Impossible!" L�� Buwei''s face was filled with disbelief.


    In just over a month, after selling so many Xu Mi stones, how could they possibly find the supply of thirty more Xu Mi stone mountains? It was impossible!


    "They''reing from the south of the city. They''ll be here soon!" the subordinate shouted.


    "Let''s go!" L�� Buwei ordered, disappearing with his subordinates in a sh.


    When L�� Buwei arrived in the south of the city, it was already packed with countless citizens, eagerly awaiting.


    "They''re here! Look, Da Rong Merchant Guild''s Xu Mi stone mountains are being transported! So many, thirty mountains!" a citizen eximed.


    "Finally, we don''t have to buy from those greedy merchants anymore. With Da Rong''s Xu Mi stones, we won''t have to worry."


    "Da Rong Merchant Guild is the best. From now on, I''ll buy everything from them."


    "They are true righteous merchants!"


    The citizens were chatting animatedly.


    L�� Buwei saw, in the distance, many strong cultivators using magic to transport the massive mountains wrapped in ck cloth. These mountains were also protected by formations to prevent anyone from spying with divine sense.


    L�� Buwei squinted his eyes.


    The thirty mountains arrived at the city gates, each escorted by a group of people who looked exhausted and had tattered clothes, bearing signs of battle.


    The lead group reached the southern gate, and one person stumbled from fatigue, causing the others to lose their bnce.


    "Boom��!"


    The Xu Mi stone mountain crashed to the ground, the ck cloth slipping off, revealing the massive heap of Xu Mi stones that immediately dazzled everyone''s eyes with their brilliance.


    "Something''s wrong!" The crowd quickly gathered around.


    "Everyone, please!" Zhao Hai, who hade to receive the shipment, shouted.


    His call brought everyone to a halt.


    "Our guild members encountered fierce beasts and bandits on the way, so they are all injured. But we finally brought the goods back for you. We''ll take care of the fallen Xu Mi stones ourselves. Please step back!" Zhao Hai shouted.


    "Da Rong Merchant Guild is amazing, everyone step back!"


    "No one should touch Da Rong''s goods. If you do, you''re despicable and against me!" a righteous citizen shouted.


    The crowd dispersed. After all, who would dare to rob Da Rong Merchant Guild''s goods? Even if they had the strength, they would lose all respect in [***] City. Da Rong Merchant Guild had risked their lives to bring cheap Xu Mi stones to everyone. Anyone who tried to steal from them would be despised.


    "Thank you, thank you!" Zhao Hai cupped his hands in gratitude.


    "You all stay and help gather the Xu Mi stones. The rest of the mountains, follow me!" Zhao Haimanded.


    With that, Zhao Hai led the remaining Xu Mi stone mountains in a grand procession back to Da Rong Merchant Guild''s warehouse.


    The news spread like wildfire, causing a sensation throughout the city.


    Da Rong Merchant Guild''s Xu Mi stones had arrived. It was true; countless people had seen it with their own eyes. The stones scattered outside the city were proof. Now, there was no more need to panic in [***] City.


    The Xu Mi stone mountains were safely stored in Da Rong Merchant Guild''s reserve.


    A new crowd of buyers gathered outside the Xu Mi Stone Shop once more.


    Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop reopened.


    The news spread throughout the city and reached the ears of every merchant.


    In one Xu Mi stone shop:


    "It''s over. Da Rong Merchant Guild''s Xu Mi stones have arrived again, and they brought thirty mountains in the first batch?"


    "Manager, what should we do? Should we still charge such high prices? Our sales in the past two months have been less than what we sold in five days before!"


    "High prices? Are you crazy? If we keep charging these prices, our reputation will bepletely ruined. Lower the prices, quickly, lower them by ten percent below Da Rong''s price!"


    "Yes, Manager!"


    The public''s panic ended, reced by the shop owners'' panic. In this month, the greedy merchants had earned their infamy, failing to make money and losing their credibility.


    They were in trouble now. If they didn''t lower prices to regain some trust, they might be out of business in this area forever.


    Da Rong Merchant Guild had made a significant profit, not only selling goods worth several years of supply in a little over a month but also earning thirty times the revenue. They gained the trust of the entire city and saw a huge increase in membership for their previously introduced membership system. Da Rong Merchant Guild was poised to be the leading merchant guild in [***] City.


    The Da Rong Xu Mi Stone Shop saw long lines of customers once again.


    Inside their inner quarters.


    The Xu Mi stone mountains scattered in the south of the city were transported directly into the Xu Mi Stone Shop, with the remaining twenty-nine mountains brought here.


    Looking at the twenty-nine mountains wrapped in ck cloth, Zhao Hai shook his head in amazement. "Your Majesty, you truly have extraordinary abilities. I couldn''t find any Xu Mi stones no matter how hard I tried, but you nned this long ago and had them brought here. I am deeply impressed!"


    Zhao Hai''s eyes were filled with admiration.


    Zhong Shan gave a faint smile. "Then let me show you what this extraordinary ability is."


    With that, Zhong Shan pointed his finger and removed a piece of ck cloth.


    As the cloth fell away, it revealed a mountain inside. But why was it ck? Xu Mi stones were supposed to be white. Zhao Hai''s eyes widened.


    "This... this is just a stone mountain?" Zhao Hai asked incredulously.


    Zhao Hai quickly removed the other ck cloths, revealing that all twenty-nine mountains were indeed ordinary stone mountains.


    "They''re all fake?" Zhao Hai said in disbelief.


    "What do you think?" Zhong Shan replied.


    "But the Xu Mi stones that fell in the south of the city?" Zhao Hai frowned.


    "Those were from the original five-day inventory," Zhong Shan exined.


    In an instant, Zhao Hai seemed to understand.


    "Your Majesty, you are brilliant!"


    "Remember, always use your brain," Zhong Shan advised.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," Zhao Hai nodded, but his brow remained furrowed.


    "What''s troubling you?"


    "Even though the twenty-nine stone mountains fooled everyone, the shop only has five days'' worth of Xu Mi stones. What will we do once they''re sold out?"


    Zhong Shan smiled, his eyes twinkling with a n already in ce.


    "Zhao Hai, the key is not just in what we have but in how we manage perceptions and expectations. The true value lies in the trust we''ve built. As long as we maintain that trust, we can navigate any shortfall strategically," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. I will remember that," Zhao Hai said, finally understanding the deeper strategy.


    "We paraded so many Xu Mi stones into the city. Didn''t the other shops notice? Won''t they lower their prices? Once they do, we won''t need to sell our stock so urgently. Besides, people are naturallyzy. When they see there''s plenty of Xu Mi stones avable and no price hikes, they won''t rush to buy anymore. Today''s rush of customers will dwindle by tomorrow," Zhong Shan pointed out.


    "Your Majesty, your words have enlightened me. I was indeed shortsighted," Zhao Hai immediately acknowledged.


    "Good. I trust you can handle the rest on your own. Go now," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Zhao Hai replied, leaving the room.


    In the inner quarters of L��''s Merchant Guild:


    "Master, all the shops in the city have lowered their Xu Mi stone prices. They''re now selling at prices ten percent lower than Da Rong''s!" a subordinate reported.


    "Using illusion to mask reality, deceiving everyone openly��Zhong Shan has tricked everyone," L�� Buwei said with a mix of amusement and frustration.


    Hearing this, the subordinate''s expression changed to one of shock.


    "Master, are you saying those twenty-nine Xu Mi stone mountains are fake?" the subordinate asked in astonishment.


    "Most likely, they are all just stones," L�� Buwei sighed.


    "But then, Da Rong Merchant Guild can''t sustain their sales for long. Once they run out of stock, they''ll have to raise prices again."


    "No, Zhong Shan has broken the situation wide open. Not only has he scared the other shopkeepers, but he has also calmed the public''s anxiety. Other shopkeepers won''t dare to raise prices now. Our n was to drive up the price of Xu Mi stones gradually, causing public panic. But now, that panic has been alleviated. Even if there''s another shortage, people won''t be as anxious," L�� Buwei exined.


    "But Master, we can''t let Da Rong Merchant Guild win. Surely, you have another n!" the subordinate urged.


    "I do have a n," L�� Buwei said, frowning.


    "You do?" The subordinate''s face lit up.


    "Unfortunately, it requires time to implement, and there isn''t enough. The Emperor will be arriving soon, and I must go to greet him. Zhong Shan has surely ounted for this timing as well. Such a cunning man!" L�� Buwei said, narrowing his eyes.


    "Master!" The subordinate''s face showed unwillingness to concede.


    "Enough. I must go and wee the Emperor. After the Luntian Conference, I''ll reassess the situation. During this time, Da Rong Merchant Guild will likely go all out against us. Hold the line well!" L�� Buwei ordered.


    "Yes, Master!" the subordinate replied.


    As L�� Buwei departed, Di Xuan Sha emerged from seclusion and approached Zhong Shan.


    "It''s about to begin. I can feel the celestial energy seeping out," Di Xuan Sha said in a deep voice.


    "Celestial energy?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly surprised.


    "Yes, that''s what we call it in this realm. In the great thousand world, it''s known as ''primordial energy,'' akin to ''spiritual energy'' in this realm. But primordial energy is more fundamental, purer, and of a higher level," Di Xuan Sha exined.


    "Primordial energy? Tomorrow is the ''Luntian Conference.'' It seems Sima Ce is making preparations," Zhong Shan said thoughtfully.


    "Luntian Conference? Discussing the heavens? Hmph, what qualifications do they have to discuss the heavens?" Di Xuan Sha sneered.


    "Let''s go and see what kind of immortals dare to summon the rulers of the world''s dynasties to this meeting!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Yes," Di Xuan Sha nodded.

 Chapter 707: Eternal Green Pine

    <h4>Chapter 707: Eternal Green Pine</h4>


    The journey from Liucheng to [***] City was neither too far nor too close. For ordinary Nascent Soul stage cultivators, it would take at least a month to get there. After all, the Dayu Dynasty only had these two notable cities, the rest being small towns inhabited by mortals. These two cities were ancient, remnants from former imperial or heavenly dynasties.


    What took Nascent Soul cultivators a month, Zhong Shan covered in just a few hours.


    Upon their arrival, both Zhong Shan and Di Xuan Sha halted, frowning at the sight before them.


    The original Liucheng had vanished without a trace.


    The sky was a verdant expanse, seemingly endless. It was as if they had stepped into another world, filled with countless green clouds and swirling green mist. The city had disappeared, reced by a vast prairie.


    It was as if a different world had been forcibly pieced together here. In front of them was an eerie green world, one step in and one step out.


    Amidst the swirling green mist, they could vaguely see a massive tree in the distance��a green pine tree, towering millions of feet high.


    A colossal ancient pine. Shrouded in mist, its vastness was awe-inspiring at a single nce.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Eternal Green Pine?" Di Xuan Sha said gravely.


    "Eternal Green Pine? What''s that?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s a root divine sense, the root divine sense of a celestial being. His root divine sense is an Eternal Green Pine, refined from a nt in the great thousand world," Di Xuan Sha exined with a frown.


    "Root divine sense?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    This was the first time Zhong Shan had seen someone''s root divine sense��a towering Eternal Green Pine. A celestial being''s root divine sense? Sima Ce''s root divine sense?


    "What is the purpose of this Eternal Green Pine?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Each root divine sense has different uses. I don''t know the specific function of the Eternal Green Pine, but with it supporting him, Sima Ce can maximize the power of his ''world''," Di Xuan Sha exined.


    "World? This green space before us is Sima Ce''s ''world''?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    A ''world'' is an evolved form of ''heaven'', something only immortals can possess.


    "This world is open to us, clearly by Sima Ce''s design, inviting us in," Di Xuan Sha said in a deep voice.


    "Eternal Green Pine?" Zhong Shan looked ahead thoughtfully.


    What was the power of this root divine sense Eternal Green Pine? How would itpare to his own Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail?


    "Sima Ce setting the venue for the ''Luntian Conference'' in his own ''world'' indicates no good intentions," Di Xuan Sha frowned.


    "Good intentions? That''s impossible," Zhong Shan stated firmly.


    "Indeed," Di Xuan Sha nodded.


    "What exactly is the function of this ''world''? Or its potency?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "An Emperor Extreme realm cultivator can use their spirit to form a spiritual world. You should be able to do this too," Di Xuan Sha said.


    "Yes, but how is that rted?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Your Heavenly Thunder Transformation should have given you some insight into what ''heaven'' is, right?" Di Xuan Sha asked.


    "Heaven is also formed by the spirit?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes. Heaven is essentially bringing the spiritual world into reality. Unfortunately, ''heaven'' is still just a prototype and cannot change as flexibly as a spiritual world," Di Xuan Sha exined in a deep voice.


    Zhong Shan''s mind stirred as he quickly grasped Di Xuan Sha''s meaning.


    "A world, the ''world'' controlled by immortals, is essentially bringing the spiritual world into reality? Within this world, the immortal can manipte the forces of heaven and earth like a creator, and perhaps even alter the world at will?" Zhong Shan asked, amazed.


    "You''re half right," Di Xuan Sha responded.


    "Oh?"


    "An immortal can indeed manipte the forces of heaven and earth within their ''world.'' However, altering the world at will is not possible. Transferring the spiritual world to the real world is an incredibly difficult task. Changes can''t be made on a whim, unless one is a sage. Generally, each immortal cultivates only one ''world,'' continuously perfecting it," Di Xuan Sha exined.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Should we enter?" Di Xuan Sha asked.


    Staring at the Eternal Green Pine, Zhong Shan fell silent. Just as he was about to speak, Di Xuan Sha frowned and looked into the distance. Zhong Shan also turned to look.


    In the distance, two figures swiftly approached��Shenya Daojun and Kong Lietian.


    The two nced at the Eternal Green Pine before turning their attention to Zhong Shan and Di Xuan Sha.


    Shenya Daojun gave a cold look to the Eternal Green Pine, then expressionlessly looked at Di Xuan Sha and finally at Zhong Shan, his eyelids twitching slightly. The enmity between the two sides was irreconcble. Last time, Shenya Daojun led a group to attack Lingxiao Heavenly Court, resulting in significant casualties. Kong Lietian''s n to reim the Phoenix n was thwarted by Zhong Shan.


    Both parties stared coldly at each other.


    Finally, Kong Lietian sneered, "I didn''t expect a mere imperial dynasty to qualify for the Luntian Conference."


    Since oveing his inner demons, Zhong Shan enjoyed seeing Kong Lietian''s irritation. From that remark, Zhong Shan sensed Kong Lietian''s annoyance and decided to fan the mes further. "I came here on my own!"


    Kong Lietian: "..."


    Shenya Daojun''s face twitched. Di Xuan Sha had a peculiar smile in his eyes.


    "Of course, if you''re talking about invitations, I have one as well," Zhong Shan added casually.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s secondment, the two were even more frustrated, realizing they had been yed.


    A sh of murderous intent crossed Shenya Daojun''s eyes, while Kong Lietian''s face turned extremely dark.


    Under Kong Lietian''s gloomy aura, the surrounding temperature plummeted, freezing the moisture in the air into ice crystals. But Zhong Shan was no longer afraid. With his current strength and Di Xuan Sha by his side, he had the ability to protect himself. He relished seeing his enemies'' exasperation. For confirmed enemies like these, there was no need to show any kindness.


    After stewing in his emotions for a moment, Kong Lietian suddenly burst intoughter, seemingly using it to vent his anger.


    "Hahaha...!"


    Zhong Shan watched coldly.


    When theughter ceased, Kong Lietian sneered, "The world is divided into four parts, with the Dazheng Imperial Dynasty ruling the southernnds. An imperial dynasty challenging the might of a heavenly dynasty, sharing the world''s stage��I''ve never understood how Dazheng manages to stand equal with us."


    "Precisely because you don''t understand, Dazheng can stand as an equal," Zhong Shan retorted sharply.


    "Then I shall test it��whether my Taishui Dynasty is firm or your Dazheng Dynasty is stronger!" Kong Lietian said darkly.


    With a flip of his hand, Kong Lietian produced arge seal, radiant with multicolored light��the imperial seal of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty.


    Upon seeing the imperial seal, Di Xuan Sha''s pupils contracted, Shenya Daojun smirked, but Zhong Shan remained coldly focused on the seal.


    The imperial seal, a national treasure, symbolized the beginning of a dynasty''s destiny, the authority over thend, and the supreme treasure of a ruler. When rulers of dynasties did not engage in direct warfare, they oftenpared their seals. The imperial seal bore the weight of an entire dynasty, with the force of a thousand mountains. A single sh would instantly reveal the stronger party to both rulers, without harming their rtionship or causing public scandal.


    However, Kong Lietian clearly intended to humiliate Zhong Shan. An imperial seal sh? Zhong Shan''s seal was merely that of an imperial dynasty, while Kong Lietian''s was that of a heavenly dynasty��clearly not on the same level. The most likely oue was the total destruction of the imperial dynasty seal.


    "Let''s see then!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    An emperor''s heart never yields. There was no way Zhong Shan would back down now. Moreover, he did not fear the sh of the seals. His greatest trump card wasn''t the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail or the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture, but his own Fangtian Imperial Seal.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s response, Di Xuan Sha frowned with slight concern, while Shenya Daojun''s eyes shed with a strange light��was Zhong Shan inviting humiliation upon himself?


    Kong Lietian didn''t think much of it. Zhong Shan''s agreement meant Di Xuan Sha wouldn''t intervene, making it an opportunity too good to miss.


    Kong Lietian tossed his multicolored imperial seal into the sky, and it expanded to a size of ten thousand feet, descending like a vast mountain.


    The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s imperial seal, carrying the might of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, descended with overwhelming force, as if the sky itself was falling, aimed directly at Zhong Shan.


    As the multicolored seal passed through the space, ripples spread outwards. The immense "force" pressed down on Zhong Shan, locking him in ce, with Kong Lietian''s eyes shing with murderous intent, as if he wanted to crush Zhong Shan with this seal.


    Di Xuan Sha did not intervene because Zhong Shan showed no signs of panic.


    With a flip of his hand, Zhong Shan brought out the Fangtian Imperial Seal. Feeling the pressure of the multicolored seal, the red gem on the Fangtian Imperial Seal briefly shed with a faint red light.


    With a swift movement, Zhong Shan sent the Fangtian Imperial Seal upward. Despite being only a tenth the size of the multicolored seal, it exuded an overwhelming aura simr to that of the multicolored seal, causing a powerful spatial disturbance.


    Sensing something amiss, Kong Lietian''s feeling of unease was quickly reced by ferocity.


    "Crush!" Kong Lietian shouted.


    "Boom��!"


    The two seals collided with a tremendous crash, generating a vast spatial shockwave. At the point of collision, a pitch-ck ne appeared, where the space itself was shattered. The tops of the two seals emitted golden light, and the boundless glow of destiny illuminated the surroundings with dazzling brilliance.


    Both seals recoiled from the impact, shrinking back to their original sizes and returning to the hands of Zhong Shan and Kong Lietian.


    Zhong Shan''s face flushed red, indicating the internal upheaval caused by the collision, while Kong Lietian stared at Zhong Shan in disbelief.


    Looking at his multicolored seal, Kong Lietian noticed a crack in one corner.


    A crack? The heavenly dynasty''s imperial seal had cracked after shing with an imperial dynasty''s seal?


    "Impossible!" Kong Lietian muttered, eyes wide with shock.


    Zhong Shan, recovering from the internal impact, stood firm, his cold gaze unwavering. He was no longer the ruler who could be easily underestimated.


    Kong Lietian''s expression turned from shock to anger. The sh, which should have demonstrated the superiority of his heavenly dynasty, had backfired, leaving his imperial seal damaged and his prestige questioned. This unexpected oue left both Shenya Daojun and Di Xuan Sha momentarily speechless.


    Di Xuan Sha, finally breaking the silence, said, "It seems the strength of a dynasty isn''t solely determined by its title. There''s more to Dazheng than meets the eye."


    Shenya Daojun, masking his surprise, responded, "Indeed. It appears we have underestimated Dazheng and its emperor."


    The tension in the air was palpable, but Zhong Shan remained resolute. This encounter had shifted the dynamics, proving that the strength of one''s spirit and resolve could defy even the most established powers.

 Chapter 708: Gathering of Heroes

    <h4>Chapter 708: Gathering of Heroes</h4>


    Kong Lietian stared at his multicolored imperial seal in shock and disbelief.


    A crack? His imperial seal, the heavenly dynasty''s imperial seal, had cracked? This was beyond belief. It was supposed to be indestructible.


    Looking up sharply, Kong Lietian red at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan had already put away the Fangtian Imperial Seal, and his flushed face gradually returned to normal.


    Seeing Kong Lietian''s furious and incredulous gaze, Zhong Shan added fuel to the fire, "You really are frugal. Already the ruler of a heavenly dynasty, and you use such poor materials for your imperial seal?"


    Kong Lietian''s rage soared at Zhong Shan''s mocking tone.


    "Bas��!" Kong Lietian was about to curse.


    Shenya Daojun pulled him back, snapping him out of it. Shocked, Kong Lietian realized that Zhong Shan had nearly manipted his emotions.


    Feeling a chill at the thought of being controlled by his opponent, Kong Lietian threw a grateful nce at Shenya Daojun and turned a cold gaze back to Zhong Shan, filled with icy hostility.


    "Mind your manners," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    With that, Zhong Shan ignored Kong Lietian, as if speaking further was beneath him.


    To Kong Lietian, this was an unbearable insult, reigniting his anger. However, this time he kept his fury in check, not letting it cloud his judgment.


    Shenya Daojun observed silently, growing more wary of Zhong Shan.


    Sacrednds had ancient legacies and unmatched foundations. Heavenly dynasties, while not as deep-rooted, could stand equal to sacrednds because their founders were exceptional. Zhong Shan, merely an imperial dynasty''s founder, was already showing such prowess. What would it be like when he established a heavenly dynasty?


    In Shenya Daojun''s eyes, Zhong Shan''s threat level had significantly increased.


    Both groups fell silent, avoiding further provocation.


    At that moment, two more figures arrived, traveling quickly across the sky.


    Recognizing them, Zhong Shan, Di Xuan Sha, Kong Lietian, and Shenya Daojun grew cautious.


    The neers were Gu Zhengyi of the Dayong Heavenly Dynasty and Monkey Supreme, Shen Qitian.


    After the Netherworld Heavenly Sect issued the world-wide Monkey Extermination Order, disciples hunted the monkey tribe relentlessly. Over the decades, the monkey poption dwindled, nearing extinction, and Shen Qitian remained hidden. Now, he appeared with Gu Zhengyi.


    "Shen Qitian?" Shenya Daojun narrowed his eyes.


    "Shen Qitian?" Di Xuan Sha looked at him with suspicion.


    Shen Qitian smiled faintly, scanning the group.


    "Who else could it be?" Shen Qitian said in a deep, steady voice.


    This Shen Qitian was different from the one Zhong Shan knew. His tonecked the previous naivety, now filled with a mature steadiness. This was the Shen Qitian of his past life. After awakening his beast soul to kill Jian Hong, he had fully regained his previous life''s cultivation.


    "Di Xuan Sha? Long time no see," Shen Qitian greeted.


    Di Xuan Sha nodded, indicating their past acquaintance was minimal.


    Shen Qitian then looked at Shenya Daojun. "Shenya Daojun? Are you still coveting my techniques?"


    Shenya Daojun''s eyes narrowed, but he didn''t respond immediately.


    The tension in the air was palpable as all these powerful figures gathered, each with their own intentions and grudges. The confrontation between Zhong Shan and Kong Lietian had already set a vtile tone, and the presence of Shen Qitian and Gu Zhengyi only added to the potential for conflict.


    "Since you''ve regained your former strength, I naturally won''t target you anymore!" Shenya Daojun replied coldly, indicating their past interactions were far from pleasant.


    "Taishui Emperor? Kong Lietian?" Shen Qitian said with a faint smile,ced with an odd undertone.


    Kong Lietian nodded without saying anything.


    Finally, Shen Qitian turned his gaze to Zhong Shan, his eyes chilling. "Zhong Shan?"


    In Shen Qitian''s memory, Zhong Shan was his adversary in this life, bringing trouble whenever they crossed paths. When his previous life''s memories resurfaced, his ''Purple-Gold Patterned Dragon Staff'' was half-devoured by the beast apanying Zhong Shan. Even now, Shen Qitian found it absurd.


    Of course, this feeling wasn''t exclusive to Shen Qitian. Shenya Daojun had a simr experience when his invincible Immortal-ying Flying Knife was eaten by the same beast. It took Shenya Daojun a long time toe to terms with that bizarre fact.


    Zhong Shan merely nodded to Shen Qitian, finding nothing more to say. He could only think of Shen Qitian as extremely unlucky.


    "How is Qianyou doing?" Gu Zhengyi suddenly asked.


    "Gu Qianyou is my wife. Whether she is well or not is none of your concern!" Zhong Shan quickly shut down any further conversation.


    Gu Zhengyi smiled faintly and shook his head, "What a pity, what a pity!"


    No one knew what Gu Zhengyi pitied. The group fell silent, focusing on the ''world'' before them.


    To enter or not to enter?


    "Let''s go," Gu Zhengyi said to Shen Qitian.


    Stepping forward, Gu Zhengyi entered the space with aposed demeanor.


    Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, recognizing the depth of Gu Zhengyi''s mindset.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan said to Di Xuan Sha.


    On the other side, Shenya Daojun and Kong Lietian exchanged nces and then stepped inside.


    As they walked in, Gu Zhengyi, Kong Lietian, and Zhong Shan all suddenly found themselves wearing dragon robes.


    Gu Zhengyi wore a purple nine-dragon robe with a purple imperial crown, walking steadily forward, Shen Qitian following closely behind.


    Kong Lietian wore a golden nine-dragon robe with a golden imperial crown, Shenya Daojun following closely behind.


    Zhong Shan wore a white nine-dragon robe with a white jade imperial crown, Di Xuan Sha following closely behind.


    This grand asion required full ceremonial respect for the guests from the great thousand worlds.


    As they walked deeper inside, the first sound they heard was a series of gulping noises, the sound of something being devoured.


    Gradually, through the green mist, they neared the Eternal Green Pine. Close to the enormous tree was a huge mountain of spirit stones, where a hideous green-skinned creature was voraciously consuming the stones.


    "Taotie!" Di Xuan Sha transmitted to Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan nodded.


    Below the Eternal Green Pine sat a man in red, meditating with his eyes closed, surrounded by ten silent subordinates.


    Zhong Shan recognized that this man must be Sima Ce, with the ten subordinates being the Ten Earth Immortals.


    Sima Ce showed no reaction to the arrival of Zhong Shan and the others, seemingly waiting for everyone to gather before he would open his eyes andmence the meeting.


    Seeing Sima Ce''s arrogance, everyone''s eyes turned cold.


    "The final group has arrived," Di Xuan Sha said calmly.


    Zhong Shan turned to look. Although this green ''world'' blocked the view from outside, it didn''t obstruct the vision of those inside.


    In the distance, a grand procession was approaching. The mighty Qin army paved the way, with nine enormous dragons pulling a pitch-ck imperial chariot. On either side of the chariot stood pce maids and eunuchs, and L�� Buwei stood not far away.


    So this was the arrival of the Qin Emperor Ying?


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan, Kong Lietian, and Gu Zhengyi all frowned. What was Ying nning?


    Everyone else had arrived with just one or twopanions for convenience, in case negotiations broke down and they needed to retreat quickly. But Ying had brought so many people��was he still concerned with maintaining appearances?


    "Stop the chariot!" a eunuch shouted, and the Qin army halted abruptly, as did the dragon-drawn chariot. L�� Buwei stood to the side.


    Two pce maids slowly opened the chariot, and Ying, d in a ck dragon robe and wearing an imperial crown, stepped out slowly.


    "Your Majesty, we have arrived," L�� Buwei bowed.


    "Very well," Ying nodded.


    Stepping forward, L�� Buwei followed closely behind.


    "Stand by," L�� Buwei ordered as he left.


    "Yes!" all the soldiers responded loudly.


    Ying and L�� Buwei walked in, leaving the grand entourage outside.


    Seeing this, not only Zhong Shan and the others but even the Ten Earth Immortals had strange looks on their faces.


    Ying approached the group. He nodded at everyone, and they returned the gesture.


    With everyone present, they all looked at Sima Ce, who was sitting beneath the Eternal Green Pine.


    "The Luntian Conference? Is this the Luntian Conference?" Ying asked indifferently.


    Hearing Ying''s question, Sima Ce slowly opened his eyes, meeting Ying''s gaze. He frowned slightly and then nced at the others. His expression changed dramatically when he saw Shen Qitian.


    "You, you, Sun...!" Sima Ce nearly eximed.


    Everyone looked at Sima Ce curiously.


    Taking a deep breath and fixing his gaze on Shen Qitian, Sima Ce said, "Forgive me, you just look remarkably like someone I once knew."


    The group remained puzzled but refrained from asking further questions.


    Sima Ce slowly stood up and made a gentle gesture.


    "Hummm!"


    Zhong Shan felt the surrounding space tremble slightly.


    "He''s sealing the ''world''," Di Xuan Sha transmitted to Zhong Shan.


    "Got it," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Gentlemen, please," Sima Ce said, gesturing.


    Suddenly, behind each person appeared threerge thrones and a round stool.


    The three thrones were positioned behind the three heavenly emperors, while the round stool appeared behind Zhong Shan.


    Heavenly dynasty rulers and an imperial dynasty ruler, treated differently?


    In an instant, all eyes focused on Zhong Shan. Ying, Gu Zhengyi, and Kong Lietian each had arge throne, while Zhong Shan was offered only a stool.


    What did this mean? Was Zhong Shan expected to sit on a small stool?


    Di Xuan Sha''s eyes red with anger. The others didn''t show gloating expressions, as this scene was not just an insult to Zhong Shan but also a warning to everyone else.


    Sima Ce wanted to demonstrate that he could determine the status of any of them.

 Chapter 709: The Peculiar Micro World

    <h4>Chapter 709: The Peculiar Micro World</h4>


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan, noting the small stool before him.


    Sima Ce and the other immortals watched with a mocking attitude. To them, a mere Emperor Extreme Realm cultivator being given a stool was already generous, and it served to intimidate the others. If everyone sat down, it would establish Sima Ce''s dominance, making the subsequent negotiations easier.


    Kong Lietian, Gu Zhengyi, and Ying, the three sovereigns, looked at Zhong Shan. None of them sat down, understanding Sima Ce''s intentions. They also knew that Zhong Shan was not one to be easily bullied; he always found a way, even in the most difficult situations.


    Zhong Shan looked at the stool with a faint smile. Did these immortals really think they could treat him as an easy target?


    A stool? Zhong Shan would never sit on it. While a great man can adapt to circumstances, this was a moment to stand firm.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold.


    "Please," Sima Ce urged Zhong Shan again, emphasizing the importance of making him sit.


    A powerful aura pressed down on Zhong Shan. Sima Ce wanted to crush him both mentally and physically, using an overwhelming force that felt like a gale threatening to knock him over.


    At that moment, Di Xuan Sha stepped forward, shielding Zhong Shan from the gust. The forceful wind halted abruptly as if it had hit a wall, leaving Zhong Shan unaffected as he continued to stare at the stool.


    Sima Ce frowned, eyeing Di Xuan Sha seriously.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan lifted his foot and kicked the stool away.


    "Boom!" The stool rolled across the ground.


    This unexpected action left everyone stunned. Sima Ce couldn''t believe it. A mere Emperor Extreme Realm cultivator dared to act so defiantly in his ''world''?


    The three sovereigns raised their eyebrows. Zhong Shan was indeed unpredictable. Even if he refused to sit, kicking the stool away was audacious.


    The Ten Earth Immortals also looked puzzled, ck lines forming on their foreheads.


    Zhong Shan kicked the stool away, then extended his hand, summoning a majestic emperor''s throne��the Nine-Dragon Heavenly Seat.


    "Boom!" The powerful thronended with a thunderous crash, shaking the ground. This was a true emperor''s seat. d in his dragon robe, Zhong Shan stepped up and sat down.


    Sima Ce was momentarily dumbfounded. What kind of person brings their own chair?


    "Hahaha!" Yingughed heartily in approval. He kicked his throne aside and summoned his own grand dragon seat.


    "Boom!" Ying''s dragon seatnded. d in his ck dragon robe, Ying stepped up and sat down.


    Another one? Sima Ce''s eye twitched.


    It wasn''t just one. Each of the sovereigns��Gu Zhengyi and Kong Lietian��summoned their respective dragon thrones, kicking aside the provided seats and sitting downfortably.


    The conflicts of the Micro World were internal affairs. Against hostile outsiders from the Great Thousand World, they naturally presented a united front, temporarily setting aside their differences.


    Once the four emperors were seated, their respective attendants stood aside, all eyes turning to Sima Ce.


    Sima Ce realized his first tactic had failed. He red at Zhong Shan with intense malice.


    This strong malice seemed to infect the Taotie, who was devouring its snacks nearby. The Taotie suddenly sensed its master''s anger and became furious as well.


    With eyes turning blood red, the Taotie spotted Zhong Shan and pounced.


    "Roar��!"


    The Taotie let out a deafening roar and lunged at Zhong Shan, its massive jaws wide open, ready to devour him and his throne in one bite.


    Everyone was caught off guard by this sudden attack. Sima Ce watched but did not intervene, allowing the Taotie to charge at Zhong Shan.


    Di Xuan Sha was about to intervene, but Zhong Shan signaled him to stand down. Di Xuan Shaplied, though he remained vignt.


    As the Taotie''s foul breath approached, seemingly about to swallow Zhong Shan whole, a sharp, clear sound rang out from the dragon throne.


    "Eek��!"


    It was the cry of the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail. Despite its crisp tone, it carried a sense of fierce anger.


    Upon hearing this sound, the Taotie''s entire green-skinned body bristled with spines, its mouth snapped shut, and it abruptly retreated.


    The Taotie''s face was filled with terror, as if it had been scared out of its wits by the strange cry.


    Seeing the Taotie''s sudden retreat, Sima Ce''s face turned pale. What was happening? Today seemed to be going horribly wrong.


    What was that cry just now? How did it frighten the Taotie so much?


    Sima Ce was puzzled, as were the other Earth Immortals. However, Shen Qitian and Shenya Daojun knew exactly what had happened. That sound was unmistakable��it was the beast that had devoured the Purple-Gold Patterned Dragon Staff and the Immortal-ying Flying Knife. There was no mistake; it was the same cry.


    But where was that beast hiding?


    After the initial fear subsided, the Taotie seemed to realize its mistake. The earlier terror wasn''t from a remembered beast but a deep-seated, instinctual fear. What was there to be afraid of?


    "Roar��!"


    The Taotie roared fiercely at Zhong Shan again.


    "Sima Ce, is this how you treat your guests?" Ying asked indifferently.


    Sima Ce''s face turned even darker. He nced at Ying, then at Zhong Shan.


    "Go eat the spirit stones. We don''t need you right now," Sima Ce said, trying to soothe the Taotie.


    The Taotie red at Zhong Shan for a while longer before reluctantly returning to its pile of spirit stones.


    This farcical situation was not what Sima Ce had nned. His carefully prepared strategy had turned into a debacle. For the first time, he felt that this micro world was truly bizarre. He had never suffered such a loss before, yet here he had taken a major hit without any recourse.


    "Immortal Sima?" Shen Qitian suddenly called out.


    Sima Ce turned to look at Shen Qitian, a flicker of confusion in his eyes. Shen Qitian looked so much like someone from Sima Ce''s past, creating aplex mixture of emotions within him.


    "Hmm?" Sima Ce questioned, puzzled.


    "Earlier, from your tone, I gathered that there was someone in the Great Thousand World who looked very much like me. Who was he?" Shen Qitian asked with a frown.


    Sima Ce furrowed his brow, considering Shen Qitian. He didn''t see the need to hide the information.


    "There once was a great sage of the monkey n with the surname Sun. Unfortunately, he perished, leaving behind eighteen monkey n disciples, all of whom took the surname Sun. Among them, ''Sun Shen'' was one of the most notorious, known as the ''Monkey Demon.'' However, he was ultimately killed by a group of immortals at ''Liuzhang Cliff'' in the Great Thousand World. I happened to be there and saw him. Apart from the difference in demeanor, his appearance was nearly identical to yours," Sima Ce exined solemnly.


    "Sun Shen?" Shen Qitian murmured, frowning slightly.


    "Enough. Let''s get on with this so-called Luntian Conference," Ying interjected calmly.


    Everyone turned their attention to Sima Ce.


    Sima Ce nced at Ying, feeling an inexplicable inability to see through him. Even Ying''s attendant was an enigma. There was something strange about this Qin Emperor.


    The same applied to Kong Lietian and Shenya Daojun; Sima Ce couldn''t discern their true strength, as if they were shrouded in a mysterious fog.


    Sima Ce found this increasingly peculiar. Could the techniques of this micro world be so miraculous that even he, a celestial being, couldn''t see through them?


    When he looked at Zhong Shan, Sima Ce could discern his cultivation level��Emperor Extreme Realm Seventh Layer��but the strength of Di Xuan Sha beside him was indiscernible. What kind of strange micro world was this?


    Seeing Gu Zhengyi, Sima Ce felt somewhat reassured, but Shen Qitian''s appearance still troubled him.


    This micro world was indeed peculiar and sinister.


    "Alright, let''s begin," Sima Ce took a deep breath and announced.


    Everyone focused on Sima Ce.


    "The purpose of the Luntian Conference is to discuss the fate of this world and the future of this micro world," Sima Ce stated.


    "Fate? Are you here to divide up our world?" Kong Lietian sneered.


    "No, not to divide," Sima Ce replied with a wicked smile.


    Not to divide? Did he intend to take it all? The group red at Sima Ce coldly.


    "Over a hundred years ago, near the Taichu Holy Court in the Great Thousand World, there were severe spatial disturbances. A micro world seemed on the verge of copse. I believe you all know what I''m talking about. During that time, I gathered information on Shenzhou. It became clear that an ancient being, Gu Shentong, had attempted to create a new world but failed. Is that correct?" Sima Ce asked casually.


    "Are you saying that when Gu Shentong attempted to open a new world, the Great Thousand World responded significantly?" Ying inquired, furrowing his brow.


    "The heavens were filled with auspicious clouds, countless rainbows soared to the sky, celestial music yed, and illusions of countless immortals appeared, all apanied by spatial tremors. It was more than just a significant response," Sima Ce recalled.


    Ying nodded, tapping his dragon throne lightly as if deep in thought.


    "What do you intend?" Kong Lietian asked, his voice cold.


    "With the manifestation of the Holy Court''s vision, it is a sign from the heavens. Gu Shentong''s failure was due to his inadequacy. The appearance of the Holy Court''s vision indicates that this micro world is destined to copse soon. Someone will reopen the heavens and establish a new heavenly court, achieving a new Holy Court''s world," Sima Ce said firmly.


    "Oh? And you n to...?" Kong Lietian red at Sima Ce.


    Everyone more or less understood Sima Ce''s intent, their gazes turning icy.


    "I intend to reopen the heavens!" Sima Ce dered resolutely.

 Chapter 710: Sima Ce鈥檚 Frustration

    <h4>Chapter 710: Sima Ce''s Frustration</h4>


    "Reopen the heavens!"


    Sima Ce spoke with fervor, looking at the emperors, hoping to see excitement or agreement in their eyes. However, the four emperors just stared at him silently, as if they were looking at a fool, which left Sima Ce feeling deeply frustrated.


    Sima Ce couldn''t understand their reaction. It didn''t make sense. Reopening the heavens would benefit the entire world, not just the one who aplished it. Almost everyone would gain from it. Why were they looking at him so oddly? Were they out of their minds?


    No, it wasn''t that they were out of their minds. They just felt Sima Ce was too naive. How could an outsider from the Great Thousand Worldprehend the intricacies of their micro world? Each emperor present wanted to open the heavens, but who would be the one to do it? And who had the capability?


    Calling Gu Shentong ipetent? Only someone from the Great Thousand World would be so ignorant. The eight powerful attendees knew well how formidable Gu Shentong was. Saying he was ipetent? Was it him being ipetent or Sima Ce being ridiculous?


    The emperors'' silence made Sima Ce feel as if a flock of crows was flying over his head, adding to his difort. Were the emperors here so focused on their cultivation that they had lost their wits?


    "What do you think?" Sima Ce asked, feeling exasperated.


    "Not much," Kong Lietian replied indifferently.


    Ying didn''t speak, merely tapping his fingers on the dragon throne, giving Sima Ce a fleeting nce before drifting off into his own thoughts.


    "Are all people from the Great Thousand World like you?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    Everyone chuckled softly.


    Sima Ce felt an urge to scream. What kind of micro world was this? Were its emperors all abnormal?


    "I think it''s feasible," Gu Zhengyi suddenly said calmly.


    The sudden support brightened Sima Ce''s eyes. Finally, someone normal.


    The other emperors frowned at Gu Zhengyi but didn''t rebuke him.


    "Feasible? Good, let''s continue then," Sima Ce said, taking a deep breath.


    "Alright."


    "Opening the heavens is a grand endeavor. It must be done by those who haven''t yet be immortals. If a sovereign seeds in opening the heavens, they will instantly be a celestial being. Those with exceptional fortune may even advance further. Additionally, the status of the heavenly positions will directly reach the ''birth position,'' elerating cultivation a thousandfold, achieving the rank of Saint King. Not only will the sovereign rise, but their subjects within the dynasty will also ascend, their positions determining their level of celestial rank. Moreover, the entire micro world''s popce will benefit from the Great Thousand World''s blessings, optimizing their physiques and granting everyone a trace of innate energy. This is the advantage of the micro world," Sima Ce exined.


    "So what?" Kong Lietian asked, frowning.


    The others looked at Sima Ce strangely, as if he was stating the obvious. Communicating with these wild individuals was truly exhausting.


    "I''ve researched the records of this world. Do you know why Gu Shentong failed to open the heavens?" Sima Ce asked solemnly.


    "And why is that?" Ying asked, his tone tinged with mockery.


    "Because the Luo Heavenly Dynasty wasn''t strong enough!" Sima Ce dered.


    "Oh?"


    "At that time, the Luo Heavenly Dynasty only upied the eastern part of Shenzhou. If the Luo Heavenly Dynasty had ruled the entire world, if Gu Shentong had harnessed the power of the whole world, wouldn''t opening the heavens have been as easy as turning a hand?" Sima Ce asserted confidently.


    "Easy as turning a hand?" Ying sneered coldly.


    The others also looked at Sima Ce oddly.


    Sima Ce now felt thatmunicating with these "barbarians" was incredibly frustrating. Every sentence he uttered was met with resistance and skepticism. Wasn''t he making sense? Were they all idiots?


    Sima Ce was puzzled, while the others looked at him with equal curiosity. Was this envoy from the Taichu Holy Court out of his mind? How could he say such absurd things?


    "What exactly do you want?" Zhong Shan frowned and asked.


    Zhong Shan felt thating here might have been a mistake, having to listen to Sima Ce''s childish remarks.


    "I want your four dynasties to merge into one, then have one person reopen the heavens!" Sima Ce stated confidently.


    Finally, Sima Ce got to the point, feeling a bit excited. However, the four emperors just stared at him silently, as if he were a fool.


    Was this guy out of his mind? How could he say something like that?


    Sima Ce was equally stunned by their reactions. At this point, shouldn''t they be showing some kind of excitement or agreement? What did their expressions mean? Did he speak too profoundly?


    Both sides were perplexed, and Sima Ce was frustrated. Why did everything feel so off today?


    The strange atmosphere wasn''t entirely the fault of either side. The issue was that Sima Ce overestimated himself and underestimated these so-called "barbarians" of the micro world.


    If a sage had said these things, the four emperors might have taken it differently. Buting from a celestial being at a conference called by himself, it sounded immature rather than wise.


    Merge into one dynasty? Did he think it was that simple? Did he think each emperor was a quail, ready to join hands and be friends? Although the four emperors were currently united against amon threat, they were inherently at odds, each hoping to eliminate the others. Expecting them to be friends and merge their dynasties with a single sentence was absurd. Who would rule? Who would submit?


    A sage might have the authority to make such demands, but Sima Ce?


    Moreover, in many micro worlds, Earth Immortals could dominate the world, but here, none of these four emperors were pushovers.


    The situation reached an impasse.


    The group exchanged nces, their year-long preparation leading to awkward silence. Sima Ce was speechless, realizing that they weren''t pondering his words but rather looking at him with disdain.


    Disdain? Sima Ce felt another wave of irritation.


    "Merge into one dynasty, and who will reopen the heavens?" Kong Lietian asked with a smirk.


    At this moment, the four emperors understood that this conference was a failure or perhaps a joke from the start.


    Finally, someone responded, and Sima Ce felt relieved.


    "I think it should be one of the four of you. Clearly, Zhong Shan, being only at the Emperor Extreme Realm, isn''t suitable!" Sima Ce began.


    First, he excluded Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan wasn''t upset, instead watching Sima Ce with interest. He had no expectations from this conference but found studying these people from the Great Thousand World intriguing.


    "So, among the three of you, I think Gu Zhengyi is the most suitable. After all, an ancestor of his once seeded in this endeavor. Many of his methods could be reused. Ying and Kong Lietian, you just need to support Dayong in reopening the heavens," Sima Ce said.


    The emperors exchanged puzzled nces.


    "Oh? I should reopen the heavens? And what about you?" Gu Zhengyi asked, narrowing his eyes.


    Everyone turned to look at Sima Ce. At this moment, the emperors'' perceptions shifted. Sima Ce was too arrogant, unable to recognize his position. To these emperors, who valued self-cultivation, Sima Ce''sck of self-awareness made him unworthy of serious discussion.


    However, from his ultimate goal, it was clear what the Holy King of the Taichu Holy Court intended.


    "I will fully support you, but you must temporarily change your nation''s name to ''Taichu'' during the creation of the new heavens. Afterward, you can rename it as you wish," Sima Ce said solemnly.


    Everyone: "..."


    It was obvious that the Taichu Holy Court was aiming to seize the fortune of creating the heavens. Did Sima Ce really think he was invincible in this world?


    Indeed, Sima Ce believed himself to be invincible in this realm. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have uttered so many words that left the four emperors in such a quandary. In Sima Ce''s mind, having a Heavenly Extreme Realm Twelfth Layer cultivator in a micro world was a rarity that urred once in a million years. With Gu Shentong gone, how could there be anyone else of that caliber? He wasn''t negotiating; he was issuingmands.


    Seizing the fortune of creating the heavens? The four emperors looked at Sima Ce with peculiar expressions.


    "I have no objections. If you can persuade everyone, I''ll create the new heavens," Gu Zhengyi suddenly said with a smile.


    Such a proposal was naturally agreeable to Gu Zhengyi. Whether it seeded or not, he had nothing to lose. He wouldn''t oppose the others; if Sima Ce could handle the rest, why not go along with it?


    Though Gu Zhengyi himself found it unrealistic, with Sima Ce so eager, he saw no reason to decline.


    Seeing Gu Zhengyi''s agreement, Sima Ce felt somewhat satisfied and turned to look at Ying and Kong Lietian.


    Perhaps Sima Ce had never intended to seek Zhong Shan''s opinion in the first ce.


    "What do you think, Your Majesties?" Sima Ce asked gravely.


    Gu Zhengyi didn''t care, but the others weren''t so easy to sway. In fact, they found Sima Ce''s proposalughable.


    The Taichu Holy Court? Sima Ce had truly disappointed everyone.


    "Is the joke over? Open your world," Kong Lietian said indifferently.


    Kong Lietian was ready to leave. Although he came from the Great Thousand World and knew of the Taichu Holy Court''s strength, he couldn''t understand why they had sent someone like Sima Ce this time.


    Kong Lietian''s impatience was evident, which unsettled Sima Ce. Ying shared the same expression. Even that mere Emperor Extreme Realm cultivator had the same look? Was he seeing this correctly?


    Regardless of their expressions, Sima Ce knew that this Luntian Conference had lost its purpose. They were a bunch of stubborn "barbarians."


    Sima Ce''s expression gradually turned cold.


    "Won''t you reconsider?" Sima Ce asked coldly.


    "No need. Open your ''world.'' You consider it," Zhong Shan said.


    Sima Ce red fiercely at Zhong Shan before letting out a coldugh. "Since you''ve entered my world and refuse to drink a toast, you think you can leave?"


    Was Sima Ce nning to resort to violence?


    If Zhong Shan didn''t know the emperors'' capabilities, he might have been concerned. But now, he could only feel pity for Sima Ce. If Sima Ce had attacked each dynasty separately, he might have had a chance. But gathering all the emperors in one ce to ughter them? That was a grave miscalction.

 Chapter 711: Ying鈥檚 Divine Power

    <h4>Chapter 711: Ying''s Divine Power</h4>


    "Since you''ve entered my world and refuse to drink the toast, do you still think you can leave?" Sima Ce''s deration marked the beginning of his assassination n. By killing these emperors, their dynasties would fall into disarray, and with Gu Zhengyi''s forces sweeping across thend, unification would be within reach.


    Sima Ce had prepared for two possibilities: either convincing the emperors through words or ughtering them if talks failed.


    With a celestial being, ten Earth Immortals, and the advantage of being within his own ''world,'' Sima Ce saw this as a near-certain victory.


    Ying, unfazed by Sima Ce''s words, looked at him and said, "Is it true that outside this micro world, numerous forces have gathered, causing the Taichu Holy Court to be unable to spare more resources and only send you to subdue this world?"


    Sima Ce''s brow twitched, a cold glint shed in his eyes, and the ten Earth Immortals exchanged puzzled nces.


    "Am I not enough?" Sima Ce asked coldly.


    Sima Ce now understood why everything had gone wrong earlier. These people simply didn''t take him seriously. How could this be? Were they crazy? That Zhong Shan was only an Emperor Extreme Realm cultivator, yet they treated him as an equal. But Sima Ce, a celestial being equivalent to the Heavenly Extreme Realm Twelfth Layer, was being disregarded. Were these people of the micro world all out of their minds?


    Seeing Sima Ce''s reaction, Ying shook his head, having obtained the confirmation he sought.


    "L�� Buwei, prepare to return to the court," Ying ordered calmly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," L�� Buwei bowed.


    "Return? Hahaha, do you think you can leave? In my ''world,'' no one can escape without my permission," Sima Ceughed mockingly.


    L�� Buwei looked at Sima Ce with a peculiar expression.


    "World? Your ''world'' relies on that Eternal Green Pine to sustain itself, doesn''t it?" L�� Buwei asked.


    "So what?" Sima Ce responded coldly.


    "I''ve encountered such root consciousness before. The Eternal Green Pine belongs to the wood element. Unfortunately," L�� Buwei sighed, shaking his head.


    "Unfortunately what?" Sima Ce sneered.


    "Unfortunately, my root consciousness is ''fire and metal.'' Metal ovees wood, and fire destroys wood. It seems you''re in trouble," L�� Buwei smiled.


    "Trouble? Hahaha, do you think a mere mortal fire can harm my Eternal Green Pine? Ridiculous!" Sima Ceughed derisively.


    "Would you like to try?" L�� Buwei challenged with a cold smile.


    Sima Ce''s eyes narrowed as he red at L�� Buwei.


    L�� Buwei extended a finger, summoning a golden me. Sima Ce''s eyes narrowed, not because the me was overly powerful, but because he felt no heat from it. What kind of fire was this? It contained metallic energy as well.


    "Allow me to demonstrate," L�� Buwei said, preparing to direct the me at the million-foot-tall Eternal Green Pine.


    Suddenly, there was an interruption.


    "Turn around, treasure!"


    "Boom!"


    Shenya Daojun''s loudmand was followed by a massive explosion. Everyone saw a sh of multicolored light, and a huge tear appeared in the space, revealing the world outside Sima Ce''s ''world.''


    The escape route was clear, and the emperors had an opportunity to leave.


    Shenya Daojun had used his divine treasure to breach the barrier, demonstrating that even Sima Ce''s ''world'' could be broken. The collective strength and cunning of the emperors,bined with their divine treasures, proved that Sima Ce had underestimated his opponents significantly.


    Kong Lietian and Shenya Daojun stepped out through therge hole, which slowly began to close. Sima Ce stared in disbelief.


    "This, this, this...!" Sima Ce felt a sense of suffocation. He had just imed that no one could break out of his ''world,'' yet two people had already done so. Everything was going beyond his expectations.


    The world quickly restored itself, and the sh from the Immortal-ying Flying Knife was mended. Enraged, Sima Ce ordered, "You two, go capture them!"


    "Yes!" The two Earth Immortals disappeared instantly.


    Meanwhile, L�� Buwei''s golden me was already shooting toward the ''Eternal Green Pine.''


    Previously, Sima Ce might have been cautious, but now he was furious. With a sh of his thought, the Eternal Green Pine erupted with a vast green light, reinforcing the entire ''world'' by tenfold.


    The golden me touched the Eternal Green Pine.


    "Boom!"


    The scene was like a firestarter being thrown into a gasoline barrel. Suddenly, from the roots of the Eternal Green Pine, a zing fire exploded upward, engulfing most of the million-foot-tall tree.


    "No!"


    The sudden disaster caused Sima Ce''s expression to change dramatically. This was no longer just frustrating but utterly terrifying. His face turned pale as the severe damage to his root consciousness also inflicted severe harm on him.


    "Buzz!"


    The vast ''world'' of Sima Ce instantly copsed, leaving only the burning Eternal Green Pine.


    Sima Ce felt like crying. What was happening? He was so disoriented by the continuous setbacks that he didn''t even know what hit him.


    With a thought, Sima Ce shrunk the Eternal Green Pine and absorbed it back into his body. Inside, he frantically tried to extinguish the mes, but the tree seemed to act as a catalyst for the fire, making Sima Ce''s efforts exceedingly difficult and humiliating.


    Sima Ce sat down cross-legged, his face alternating between red and white.


    "Master!" The Earth Immortals gathered around him, looking panic-stricken. The Taotie also approached, confused about what was happening.


    Sima Ce was in a tragic state. In an attempt to save the Eternal Green Pine, he had no choice but to sit down and resist the mes.


    Zhong Shan, Di Xuan Sha, Ying, and L�� Buwei nced at Sima Ce, then turned and flew away.


    The remaining eight Earth Immortals watched them leave but were helpless. Their master''s safety was paramount.


    The Taotie roared a few times in Zhong Shan''s direction, clearly still traumatized by the earlier encounter. Concerned for its master, it did not pursue.


    Only Gu Zhengyi and Shen Qitian stayed behind.


    Zhong Shan left, feeling speechless. Was Sima Ce sent by the Taichu Holy Court to provide them with entertainment?


    Ying boarded the dragon chariot pulled by nine dragons. The Qin army led the way.


    "Proceed!"


    An elderly eunuch''s loud call marked the departure, and Ying''s entourage gradually vanished from the Earth Immortals'' sight.


    Half an hour after everyone had left, Sima Ce slowly opened his eyes. His face had not fully recovered, indicating that the fire on the Eternal Green Pine was still burning, though temporarily subdued. He could now spare some attention to address the situation.


    Looking around, he demanded, "Where are they?"


    "They left, Master," one of the Earth Immortals replied.


    "You fools, go after them immediately!" Sima Ce roared.


    "But, Master, what about you?" one of the Earth Immortals hesitated, showing concern.


    "You three, go after the Qin people and kill them on the spot. The two of you, go after Zhong Shan and Di Xuan Sha, and kill them too," Sima Cemanded.


    "Roar!"


    Taotie suddenly became agitated.


    "You want to eat Zhong Shan?" Sima Ce asked, looking at Taotie.


    "Roar," Taotie nodded.


    "You two, take Taotie with you. When you kill Zhong Shan, ensure Taotie''s safety," Sima Ce ordered coldly.


    "Yes, sir!"


    In no time, seven of the Earth Immortals left, leaving three behind to protect Sima Ce.


    Gu Zhengyi stood aside, looking at Sima Ce with a slightly strange expression. Sima Ce wanted to use Gu Zhengyi to open the heavens, but Gu Zhengyi also wanted to use Sima Ce. If he could control this celestial being...


    In the northwest, the Qin convoy was heading towards the Holy Capital of Xianyang, having already traveled millions of miles.


    Suddenly, two figures appeared in front of the convoy��two Earth Immortals who had been pursuing them for over half an hour.


    The Qin convoy came to a halt.


    "Form the battle formation!" a general shouted.


    "Ha!"


    The Qin soldiers pointed their long spears forward, exuding a fierce killing intent that directly confronted the two Earth Immortals.


    The Earth Immortals responded coldly, each drawing a long sword. Their orders were clear��kill them all!


    As they were about to strike, the curtain of the dragon chariot parted, and Ying stepped out slowly. L�� Buwei was not nearby. Ying knew the strength of the Earth Immortals and was also aware of the capabilities of these Qin soldiers. They were not the elite troops, and it was clear they couldn''t handle two Earth Immortals.


    "You too want to kill me?" Ying asked indifferently.


    "Our master has ordered us to kill you on the spot," one of the Earth Immortals replied.


    "Kill me?" Ying let out a coldugh.


    Suddenly, Ying slowly extended his right hand.


    The swords the Earth Immortals were about to wield suddenly halted. They saw something incredibly shocking.


    From Ying''s right palm, countless tiny light spots emerged, gradually forming within his hand.


    These were not merely light spots. The Earth Immortals realized they were witnessing something far more profound. Ying''s palm appeared like the depths of the universe, with countless stars ands revolving in intricate patterns. His palm was like a miniature cosmos.


    "Divine power? The universe in his palm!" one Earth Immortal eximed in terror.


    Realizing the gravity of their situation, the Earth Immortals turned to flee without hesitation. However, Ying had already acted, and escape was impossible.


    In an instant, the surroundings of the two Earth Immortals turned pitch ck. Upon closer inspection, they found themselves at the center of a universe, with countless stars rotating in strange trajectories. This was a gxy, something only seen in the Great Thousand World.


    The Earth Immortals knew they were doomed. They were not in the depths of space but at the center of Ying''s palm. The movement of the stars exerted immense pressure, crushing the two Earth Immortals.


    With no room for resistance, the two Earth Immortals were pulverized into dust by the cosmic force.


    Ying looked at his hand, gave a slight shake, and the countless stars in his palm vanished. He turned and walked back to the dragon chariot.


    "Proceed!"


    The convoy resumed its journey, disappearing from the sight of the remaining Earth Immortals.

 Chapter 712: Devouring the Taotie

    <h4>Chapter 712: Devouring the Taotie</h4>


    In [***] City.


    L�� Buwei stood in the courtyard at the rear of the L�� n''s business association.


    "Master!" several subordinates greeted respectfully.


    "Hmm, dismantle the business association here," L�� Buwei ordered indifferently.


    "But Master, we''ve just started here!" one subordinate queried in confusion.


    "It''s unnecessary. Withdraw back to Qin," L�� Buwei responded calmly.


    "Understood!"


    As they spoke, L�� Buwei looked up, a cold smile forming on his lips.


    High in the sky, an Earth Immortal was approaching, chasing after L�� Buwei.


    With a flicker, L�� Buwei appeared in the sky, staring at the Earth Immortal.


    "You''re here to kill me?" L�� Buwei asked coldly.


    "The master has ordered us to kill you on the spot!" The Earth Immortal drew a long sword.


    "An Earth Immortal from the Great Thousand World? It''s been a long time since I killed one of those. You think you can kill me?" L�� Buwei sneered.


    In a mountain valley, two Earth Immortals confronted Shenya Daojun and Kong Lietian.


    Over a vast sea, two Earth Immortals blocked Zhong Shan and Di Xuan Sha.


    Beside the two Earth Immortals was a blue-skinned beast, the Taotie.


    "Roar! Roar!"


    The Taotie roared continuously at Zhong Shan, seemingly eager to erase its previous humiliation. Despite being ranked among the top hundred divine beasts, it had been scared by a mere sound. This time, it was determined to devour the person before it.


    "Roar! Roar! Roar!"


    The Taotie kept roaring at Zhong Shan, unwilling to be satisfied until it had consumed him.


    Zhong Shan stared coldly at the Taotie.


    "Yiya!"


    The sound of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail echoed again. Hearing it, the Taotie became even more agitated. Yes, this was the sound that had frightened it earlier.


    "Roar! Roar! Roar!"


    The Taotie continued to roar, ready to charge at any moment.


    Just then, a purple fox tail emerged from behind Zhong Shan.


    The two Earth Immortals paused momentarily. What was that?


    "Yiya!"


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail suddenly jumped onto Zhong Shan''s shoulder. It wasn''t veryrge, only about half the height of a person.


    The two Earth Immortals didn''t recognize this creature.


    The Taotie''s gaze suddenly shifted to the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    "Roar!"


    The ugly Taotie roared incessantly.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, with its bright ck eyes, red at the Taotie. Feeling provoked, it opened its mouth and let out an angry cry.


    "Yiya!"


    The Taotie instinctively took a step back but immediately regretted it, angrily opening its mouth and inhaling towards its feet.


    As the Taotie roared and inhaled, the surrounding air distorted, and a powerful suction force aimed directly at the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. However, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail remained undeterred. It suddenly leaped forward, its body emitting a mysterious, radiant glow.


    The Taotie, sensing an imminent threat, hesitated for a split second. But it was toote. The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail struck with unparalleled speed and ferocity. The Taotie''s attempt to devour its opponent backfired spectacrly.


    In a sh, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail''s jaws mped onto the Taotie''s neck. The once formidable and terrifying Taotie found itself overpowered and defenseless against the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail''s overwhelming might.


    The two Earth Immortals could only watch in stunned silence as the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail continued its fierce attack, tearing into the Taotie with a relentless fury.


    Momentster, the Taotie''s struggles ceased, and its massive formy still, subdued and defeated by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    Zhong Shan stood firm, observing the scene with a calm demeanor, while the Earth Immortals realized that they had gravely underestimated their opponents.


    "Yiya!"


    With one final triumphant cry, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail returned to Zhong Shan''s side, its victory over the Taotieplete.


    The battle had ended, but the implications of this encounter would resonate far beyond the battlefield.


    The terrifying maw of the Taotie suddenly expanded to a hundred zhang wide. With a single gulp, the sea level inexplicably sank. In just a short while, the vast ind sea had dried uppletely.


    It was a terrifying mouth, with a terrifying capacity to devour.


    But Zhong Shan looked at the Taotie with a peculiar expression. Was this beast trying to intimidate him?


    "Eee-ya eee-ya!" The Eight Extreme Heaven Tail showed no fear whatsoever.


    "Master''s Taotie, though still in its juvenile stage, has already shown its formidable might. Anything swallowed by it can never escape. Its stomach is like a bottomless pit��truly incredible!" an Earth Immortal eximed.


    The Taotie, seeing the provocation from the Eight Extreme Heaven Tail, charged forward.


    One Earth Immortal was about to intervene but was stopped by another.


    "Let it be. The Taotie is impervious to des and spears; even we cannot harm it. What can these mortals do?"


    "True!"


    As the Taotie rushed toward the Eight Extreme Heaven Tail, its body suddenly expanded ten thousand times over, transforming into an enormous beast charging at Zhong Shan.


    The most fearsome thing about the Taotie was its ability to devour anything. Nothing under the heavens could escape its maw.


    The enormous mouth opened, like a gigantic ck hole, wildly engulfing everything around Zhong Shan, Di Xuan Sha, and the Eight Extreme Heaven Tail.


    Di Xuan Sha was about to act, but Zhong Shan shook his head, stopping him. Di Xuan Sha restrained himself.


    The Eight Extreme Heaven Tail was strong, but unfortunately, it was still too slow, unable to catch up with the Earth Immortals. Devouring them was currently impossible, and if it disyed too much strength now, the Earth Immortals would surely take the Taotie away quickly.


    Therefore, Zhong Shan deliberately feigned weakness to lower the Earth Immortals'' guard and prepared to trap the Taotie.


    Sure enough, the Taotie''s enormous mouth came crashing down with unstoppable momentum, aiming to swallow the Eight Extreme Heaven Tail and the two men in one gulp. Once inside the Taotie''s stomach, not even a Celestial Immortal could escape.


    As the Taotie passed, it devoured even the space around it, leaving a strange void in its wake.


    The two Earth Immortals smirked, realizing they wouldn''t need to lift a finger this time.


    "Swallow it, swallow it!" one Earth Immortal eximed excitedly.


    The Taotie''s mouth was now right in front of Zhong Shan, ready to bite down.


    "Awooo��������������������������������������������������!"


    Across from them, the Earth Immortal was ecstatic.


    "Swallow, swallow��������������������������������������������"


    Just as one Earth Immortal was caught up in his excitement, his expression suddenly froze, as if he was constipated. The other Earth Immortal was equally dumbfounded.


    What did we just see?


    The two Earth Immortals nced at each other in disbelief, wondering if they were dreaming.


    In front of them, the massive Taotie had disappeared! Recing it was the beast with eight tails.


    The eight-tailed beast had suddenly transformed into a colossal beast and swallowed the Taotie whole?


    Swallowed it?


    The Taotie was eaten? How was that possible?


    The two Earth Immortals were stunned, but one of them quickly snapped out of it and thrust his longsword toward the Eight Extreme Heaven Tail, whose mouth was still bulging, having not yet digested the Taotie.


    A powerful sword strike wasunched, the longsword lengthening abruptly, and a sharp sword intent shot toward the Eight Extreme Heaven Tail. The sky filled with boundless sword energy.


    The enormous sword pierced forward. The Eight Extreme Heaven Tail''s round, ck eyes suddenly narrowed into slits, ring cutely yet angrily at the approaching attack, its mouth still puffed out.


    Then therge mouth opened slightly, just enough to let the longsword pierce into it.


    "Awooo!"


    With a snap of its jaws, the endless sword energy in the heavens suddenly dissipated.


    "Pu��������������������������������������!"


    The Earth Immortal spewed a mouthful of blood. His face turned deathly pale as he looked at his hand��his longsword had a chunk bitten off.


    The longsword he had painstakingly forged for ten thousand years had a piece bitten off? The Earth Immortal''s heartache far exceeded his physical injury.


    What kind of monster is this?


    Back at the original site of Liucheng.


    Sima Ce had finally forced Lu Buwei''s me out of his body. Of course, the ancient green pine had suffered indelible damage. In Sima Ce''s hand was a me shaped like an ingot.


    Staring nkly at this ''golden ingot''-shaped me, Sima Ce was dumbfounded for a moment. What kind of person would shape their me into a golden ingot?


    With a flick of his finger, Sima Ce extinguished the golden ingot, a look of resentment on his face. This Celestial Assembly had been nothing but bad luck.


    Fortunately, Gu Zhengyi and Shen Qitian were still around.


    "Mr. Sima, once your subordinates return, please join us for a gathering at the Dayong Heavenly Dynasty," Gu Zhengyi invited.


    "Very well," Sima Ce nodded.


    He waited for two days, but his subordinates still hadn''t returned. What on earth were they doing that was taking so long?


    Finally, on the third morning, just as Sima Ce was growing desperate, a streak of light shot towards him from the distance.


    As it approached, Sima Ce''s face changed dramatically. The person was pale, covered in blood, and riddled with countless wounds. They had clearly used a secret technique to increase their strength just to make it back.


    "What happened? Why are you in this state? Where is the Taotie?"


    "Master, the Taotie...the Taotie was eaten!" the person said with a face full of terror.


    "What? What did you say?" Sima Ce''s eyes widened.


    "The Taotie was eaten by a monster!" the person said, panic-stricken.


    "Rubbish! The Taotie devours others, not the other way around! What kind of monster could eat a Taotie?" Sima Ce roared.


    A monster? You must be seeing things. In terms of devouring, who in the world could surpass the Taotie?


    "It''s true, Master. The Taotie was really eaten by a monster. Fifth Brother is dead too. I barely made it back!" the Earth Immortal wailed.


    "Impossible, absolutely impossible. You''re lying to me, you must be lying!" Sima Ce shouted, grabbing the injured Earth Immortal by the cor.


    With a flip of his hand, the Earth Immortal produced half of a celestial sword.


    "Master, this sword was also half-eaten by that monster," the Earth Immortal said mournfully.


    Sword? Is this still a sword? What remained in the Earth Immortal''s hand was only a hilt and a five-inch de. This was a sword? It looked more like a spat!


    Sima Ce''s face twitched as he looked at the broken sword. He knew it well��it was a treasured weapon of his subordinate, and it had also been eaten? What kind of monster had they encountered? What kind of monster could even eat a Taotie?


    Five dayster, none of the other six Earth Immortals who had gone out returned. It was obvious��they weren''ting back.


    At that moment, Sima Ce finally understood. This small world was too terrifying. It wasn''t just the decayed dynasties of the Heavenly Empire fighting for supremacy with the imperial dynasties��this world''s imperial dynasties were extraordinarily powerful. This was an ominous world, a terrifying world.

 Chapter 713: The Tomb of the Living Dead

    <h4>Chapter 713: The Tomb of the Living Dead</h4>


    Sima Ce waited for several days, but his subordinates never returned.


    He had already guessed the fate of the six subordinates but was unwilling to believe it. After waiting for another two days, Sima Ce slowly took out ten jade ques.


    The jade ques were crystal clear and square-shaped, each inscribed with a name.


    "Bang, bang, bang..."


    Six of them instantly shattered into powder. These were the life ques of his ten subordinates. If they died and their souls remained, the ques would stay intact. But if their souls were obliterated, the ques would shatter.


    Dead? Souls obliterated?


    Sima Ce closed his eyes and took a deep breath, feeling a myriad of emotions. The people of this world were too ruthless!


    During the Celestial Assembly, in the southeastern corner of Shenzhou, within the territory of the Great Zhen Empire, there was a peculiar mountain among the ranges. It was called ''Tianxia Peak.''


    There were no residents under Tianxia Peak, nor were there any demonic beasts, as the spiritual energy here was extremely sparse. Sparse to the point of being almost undetectable.


    At the foot of Tianxia Peak, an old man with a stooped posture stood before an altarden with offerings.


    The old man stood in front of the altar, looking at the towering mountain. He lit incense and knelt before the altar, remaining in that position for three days and nights.


    This old man was none other than Tiao, the Feng Shui master of the Dayong Heavenly Dynasty.


    Tiao knelt devoutly before Tianxia Peak.


    Three dayster, Tiao slowly stood up, bowed once more to Tianxia Peak, then packed up the altar and left as if nothing had happened.


    After Tiao left, another figure suddenly appeared where he had been kneeling.


    The neer appeared to be in his thirties, holding a white longsword, his eyes cold as he watched Tiao''s departing figure. This man bore a strong resemnce to Tianjizi, whom Zhong Shan had encountered in the underworld.


    This man was indeed Tianjizi, the former patriarch of the Tian family from the underworld, who had walked the Yellow Springs Road.


    After Tiao left, Tianjizi slowly revealed himself, looking up at Tianxia Peak with a frown.


    Not far from where Tiao had been worshipping was a faintly visible stone tablet, which seemed to be a part of Tianxia Peak.


    "Tianxia Peak? The Tomb of the Living Dead?" Tianjizi muttered with a frown.


    In another valley within the Great Zhen Empire.


    Di Xuan Sha stood guard in four directions while the Eight Extreme Heaven Tail worked hard to digest the Taotie. The Taotie was ranked ny-ninth among the divine beasts of the Daqian World��not as formidable as the Brain-Eater, but still aplete entity.


    After two hours of terrifying digestion, it finally began to convert energy for Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s cultivation surged. Thunderclouds still covered the sky, blocking out the sun. Birds and beasts scattered in a frenzy.


    Eighth level of the Imperial Extreme Realm!


    Ninth level of the Imperial Extreme Realm!


    He ascended two levels in a row before stopping.


    The Taotie was indeed a treasure! This time, Zhong Shan didn''t let the Eight Extreme Heaven Tail release its power, sparing the surroundings from turning to dust.


    As the endless ck clouds dispersed, Di Xuan Sha approached.


    "How is it?"


    "Ascended two levels," Zhong Shan said with satisfaction.


    Nodding as if it were expected, Di Xuan Sha seemed numb to the phenomenon.


    "Return to the court! There might be great chaos soon," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood!"��


    In the study of Gu Zhengyi in the Dayong Heavenly Dynasty, Sima Ce spoke to Gu Zhengyi.


    "I have reviewed the information on the Great Zhen Empire. They achieved dominance in the south through opportunistic means; their foundation is certainly unstable."


    "So what?" Gu Zhengyi frowned.


    "What I mean is, in a world divided into four parts, your Dayong Heavenly Dynasty has only obtained two-tenths of it. To unify the world, we must incite widespread warfare!" Sima Ce dered.


    "Oh?"


    "Rest assured, since I''vemitted to your side, I will naturally support you with all my might. With our current strength, we can absolutely take the lead among the major powers. To unify the world, we must quickly annex the territories of the other states," Sima Ce said.


    Gu Zhengyi looked at Sima Ce, waiting for him to continue.


    "The current global situation has alreadyid the groundwork for us. The weakest among them is the Great Zhen Empire. We should start with them!" Sima Ce asserted.


    "Oh? The weakest? Wasn''t the Raven Daoist Lord unable to subdue them even with a group of Heavenly Realm experts?" Gu Zhengyi said with a faint smile.


    "That was because their capital was protected by boundless luck. Without that luck, what can the Great Zhen aplish? Moreover..." Sima Ce began.


    "Moreover what?"


    "Moreover, the Great Zhen Empire is located in the south and borders three other dynasties. If we mobilize our forces, the other two dynasties will surely take the opportunity to seize a share. The world will then be divided into three parts, and we can gradually deal with the Great Qin and Taishui," Sima Ce said solemnly.


    Gu Zhengyi frowned slightly, tapping his fingers on the desk as he pondered.


    Sima Ce waited patiently.


    One yearter, in the Changsheng Hall of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Zhong Shan sat on the dragon throne, listening to the court discuss the state of the world.


    "Your Majesty, the Dayong Heavenly Dynasty has dered to the world that they are mobilizing troops to attack our Great Zhen Empire! Should we fight or negotiate? Please make your decree!" Yi Yan spoke up.


    "Please make your decree!" the court echoed in unison, bowing.


    Zhong Shan, holding supreme authority, could sway the court''s decisions. If Zhong Shan dered war, the entire court would prepare for battle. If he chose peace, they would negotiate for it.


    Zhong Shan tapped the dragon throne and said calmly, "War!"


    "Yes!" the ministers responded immediately.


    In the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty, within the court.


    "Your Majesty, the Dayong Heavenly Dynasty and the Great Zhen Empire have both dered to the world that they are going to war!" Li Si bowed.


    "Where is Bai Qi?" Ying Zheng asked solemnly.


    "Here!" Bai Qi immediately stepped forward.


    Li Si returned to his position.


    "Conduct a thorough inspection of the military households, prepare for battle, and forge a thousand war-rhino troops!" Ying Zheng ordered.


    "Understood!" Bai Qi responded immediately.


    After Bai Qi returned to his position, L�� Buwei stepped forward, frowning as he looked at Ying Zheng.


    "Your Majesty, have you made your decision?" L�� Buwei asked with a frown.


    "Yes, you are aware of the recent Celestial Assembly. Outside of this small world, countless forces are gathered. This small world is now boiling hot!" Ying Zheng said calmly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. We will follow your decree." L�� Buwei bowed.


    With themencement of the war between the Dayong Heavenly Dynasty and the Great Zhen Empire, thirty years of peace came to an end, plunging the world back into a period of chaos.


    This war was enormous, covering nearly half of the Shenzhou region right from the start. It was just the beginning.


    Contrary to expectations, the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty and the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty remained motionless, observing the situation instead of attacking the Great Zhen Empire.


    It wasn''t until a year into the war that the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty suddenly mobilized its forces.


    Their target was not the Great Zhen Empire but the Dayong Heavenly Dynasty.


    This unexpected attack caught Dayongpletely off guard. Leading the troops was the feared Bai Qi, known as the God of ughter.


    Bai Qi had earned this title thirty years ago, during the northern campaign where he ughtered over a billion people��a true god of massacre.


    "They''ve gone mad! The Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty has gone mad! Why are they attacking us?" Sima Ce eximed in shock and anger upon hearing the news.


    Gu Zhengyi frowned slightly.


    "Does the Great Qin have a grudge against you? Why are they suddenly attacking?" Sima Ce asked, fuming.


    Gu Zhengyi remained calm. "The reality is already upon us. Anger won''t solve anything. It''s best to draw the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty into this. If Taishui joins the battlefield, we won''t be as passive."


    The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty bordered the Great Qin. Whether Taishui attacked the Great Zhen or the Great Qin, it would be advantageous for Dayong.


    In the Great Zhen Empire, the court was also abuzz with the news.


    "Why is the Great Qin attacking Dayong? Because Dayong is the main belligerent, and the main belligerent never wins the hearts of the people. If they enter the war, it makes the most sense to attack them under the banner of justice, thus rallying public sentiment," Yi Yan exined to a courtier.


    "I don''t think it''s that simple," Shui Jing said, shaking his feather fan.


    "Oh?"


    "I don''t know why, but I feel that the Great Qin''s sudden military action is not just about expanding territory," Shui Jing said, shaking his head and sighing.


    Clearly, the deeper motives behind the Great Qin''s mobilization were unclear.


    Zhong Shan sat on the dragon throne, pondering the global situation. Like Shui Jing, Zhong Shan was also puzzled by the Great Qin''s actions. Typically, a third party would intervene only when victory seemed certain to im a share of the spoils. But the war had just begun, so why was the Great Qin mobilizing now?


    The courtiers shifted their discussions from the battlefield to the Great Qin''s intentions. Clearly, Ying Zheng''s move was beyond theirprehension.


    "Summon Ni Bosha," Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    "Summon the Chief Astronomer to the court!"


    An eunuch announced, and soon, Ni Bosha entered the hall.


    "Your Majesty," Ni Bosha greeted respectfully.


    "Ni Bosha, the Great Qin has intervened, and Dayong is bound to retaliate fiercely. The frontlines will be tense. I need you to rush to the front and join General Zhao in resisting the Dayong forces," Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Ni Bosha responded promptly.


    At the frontlines of the Dayong and Great Zhen conflict, within the central military tent, Tiao faced the Grand Marshal of Dayong, Huan Tulong.


    "Marshal, I have a request that I hope you will consider," Tiao said, frowning.


    "Oh? What is it?" Huan Tulong asked, puzzled.


    "Marshal, is our next battlefield near Tianxia Peak?" Tiao asked.


    "Indeed, why?"


    "Tianxia Peak is the burial site of my ancestors. Please, could you steer the battle away from Tianxia Peak to avoid disturbing my forebears?" Tiao requested earnestly.


    At this moment, two Earth Immortals apanying Sima Ce entered, and one of them sneered.


    "Ancestral grave? Do you think war is a child''s y? Just because your ancestors are buried there, we should move the battlefield?"

 Chapter 714: Battle of Tianxia Peak

    <h4>Chapter 714: Battle of Tianxia Peak</h4>


    "Ancestral grave? Do you think war is child''s y? Just because your ancestors are buried there, you want to move the battlefield?"


    The two Earth Immortals regained their pride as Earth Immortals and looked arrogantly at Tiao. Tiao, only at the Second Realm of the Heavenly Realm, was beneath their notice.


    Tiao gave them a cold nce and turned his attention back to Hantu Long.


    "Marshal, what do you say?" Tiao''s voice was heavy.


    Hantu Long studied the map and shook his head. "Tianxia Peak is a fortress and the key to our invasion of the Great Lou Empire. Both empires have stationed troops here. If the Lou Empire falters, the losses will be severe. We cannot miss this opportunity."


    Hantu Long''s refusal soured Tiao''s mood. With a cold nce at Hantu Long, Tiao stepped out of the tent.


    On both sides of Tianxia Peak, troops continued to gather. The armies of Lou and Yong Dynasty were poised for battle, ready to sh after a year of war.


    Themanders of both dynasties, meeting on the battlefield for the first time after a year of conflict:


    General Hantu Long of Yong Dynasty!


    General Zhao Suoxiang of Lou Dynasty!


    Both vied for control of Tianxia Peak, neither willing to yield.


    In the central tent of Lou''s camp:


    Nibo Sasa looked at Zhao Suoxiang.


    "General Zhao, such a heavy aura. Over these decades, no one has reaped greater rewards from the Hundred Worlds Cave than you!" Nibo Sasa eximed.


    "It''s thanks to His Majesty''s favor that I am where I am today," Zhao Suoxiang replied calmly.


    "His Majesty has a message for you," Nibo Sasa continued.


    Zhao Suoxiang immediately bowed respectfully.


    "His Majesty says, General Zhao''s killing intent is rising, but it is not enough. Compared to Bai Qi of the Great Qin, your record iscking. This cannot be made up for even within the Hundred Worlds Cave. His Majesty hopes you will handle each battle with care from now on."


    "Bai Qi? Over a hundred billion?" Zhao Suoxiang raised an eyebrow.


    "I don''t know where His Majesty got this figure, but I doubt he would fabricate it," Nibo Sasa replied.


    "Very well," Zhao Suoxiang nodded, his eyes flickering with thought.


    "In a month''s time, the armies will engage in battle. You are to keep an eye on their Feng Shui Masters," Zhao Suoxiang instructed.


    "Yes," Nibo Sasa affirmed.


    One monthter, near Tianxia Peak:


    Tianji Zi concealed his presence, standing atop a mountain peak in the distance.


    "The Tian family''s ancestral grave? A tomb for the living and the dead? I will lure both armies here to fight. Let''s see if the descendants of the Tian family will remain indifferent when their ancestral graves are soaked in blood!" Tianji Zi squinted his eyes.


    In the distance, beneath Tianxia Peak,y a vast battlefield.


    To the north, the Yong Dynasty''s army roared like ten thousand tigers, exuding an aura of life and death.


    Hantu Long stood at the forefront, a giant tiger above his head, wielding a golden greatsword as he gazed into the distance.


    Beside him, atop another tiger, stood two Earth Immortals, forming a slight formation for Hantu Long.


    Facing them, the Lou Dynasty''s army:


    Ten thousand giant wolves pounded the earth, their riders standing tall with spears, backed by numerous iron-armored soldiers.


    Zhao Suoxiang gripped his iron spear, his face exuding a heroic air as he stared down the opposingmander, Hantu Long. Amidst the vast army, however, stood another figure, d in a wild demeanor. He was the Supreme Tiger n from the Yin Realm, known as Yinluo Yue.


    "Zhao Suoxiang?" Hantu Long shouted.


    Zhao Suoxiang adjusted his long spear but remained silent.


    "Your lifetime achievements are mediocre, nothing outstanding. Are you worthy to oppose me?" Hantu Long''s voice boomed.


    Hantu Long wasn''t being arrogant; such verbal exchanges weremonce before battles between twomanders. The oue could greatly sway morale.


    "Words are useless! Come, let me see what kind of leader the Tian Dynasty has!" Zhao Suoxiang retorted.


    With a step, Zhao Suoxiang leaped into the air, his presence soaring. His audacity was such that he intended to challenge Hantu Long one-on-one.


    Suchmander duels weremon on many battlefields. Typically, whichevermander gained the upper hand would greatly boost morale, while the other''s troops would falter.


    Zhao Suoxiang''s flight was a challenge to Hantu Long.


    Seeing this, Hantu Long frowned slightly. He knew Zhao Suoxiang''s background well. Just a hundred years ago, during the Blue me Empire, Zhao was only at the Yuan Infant stage. How dare he challenge me now?


    When Hantu Long gained his fame, Zhao Suoxiang''s grandfather was still a babe at the breast.


    Could Hantu Long refuse such a challenge?


    With a step, Hantu Long soared into the air. Both men left their mounts behind; their duel would exceed what any mount could endure.


    "Please," Zhao Suoxiang said.


    "Please," Hantu Long replied with a hint of mockery.


    A million soldiers awaited theirmanders'' return.


    Zhao Suoxiang pointed his spear, and suddenly, an endless stream of spear energy descended like a meteor shower, aiming at Hantu Long with terrifying speed.


    The sight of it stirred the blood of the Lou soldiers.


    Hantu Long''s brow furrowed; something was amiss. Zhao Suoxiang''s strength far exceeded his intelligence had gathered.


    Swinging his de, countless de energies surged from the ground, resembling a massive mound of des beneath.


    "Boom~~~~~"


    Zhao Suoxiang''s spear energy condensed into a five-hundred-zhang spear light, piercing towards Hantu Long, who retaliated with a fierce downward sh.


    Upon collision, endless energies of spear and de danced through the air.


    In the blink of an eye, their forms were invisible, their battle speed too swift. Theirbat was a blur, emitting a terrifying aura of endless killing intent, filled with undying de and spear energies.


    Hantu Long''s aura shone golden, evoking an atmosphere of warriors and steeds.


    "Roar~~~~~ Roar~~~~~ Roar~~~~~"


    The Yong soldiers roared in support of Hantu Long.


    "Kill~~~~~ Kill~~~~~ Kill~~~~~"


    In the center of the de and spear energies, Zhao Suoxiang shouted, releasing a terrifying white killing intent that instantly dissipated much of Hantu Long''s momentum.


    "Roar~~~~~ Roar~~~~~ Roar~~~~~ Roar~~~~~"


    The Lou soldiers seemed ignited by this rush of blood, joining in the high roar.


    Bothmanders wielded immense charisma, their thrilling battle rousing the soldiers into a frenzy. Each soldier''s eyes zed with determination, itching to charge into the fray.


    Their duelsted for two hours, during which both armies reached peak readiness.


    It was time. Almost simultaneously, the deputymanders of both sides waved their gs.


    The armies surged forward.


    "Roar~~~~~"


    Ten thousand wolves roared madly as the army charged ahead.


    "Kill~~~~~"


    The Lou Dynasty''s troops surged forward with murderous intent.


    "Roar~~~~~"


    Ten thousand tigers roared as the Yong Dynasty''s army also charged.


    "Kill~~~~~"


    The Yong troops surged madly towards the Lou forces.


    Meanwhile, two Earth Immortals, rather than engaging, exchanged a nce.


    "Do you notice something strange about this mountain peak?" one Earth Immortal frowned.


    "Yes, that corner of the mountain, I distinctly remember it being shattered by Hantu Long just now. How is it restored?" the other Earth Immortal eximed in surprise.


    As they pondered, both armies were now at the center of the battlefield, on the brink of engagement.


    "Roar~~~~~"


    Another roar, so thunderous it seemed to drown out all others. Astonishingly, this roar came from within the Lou Dynasty''s army.


    In the midst of their charge, the Tiger n froze. The ten thousand tigers suddenly halted?


    This was the most critical moment, and yet the Tiger n seemed to lose control.


    The Wolf n rushed into the Lou army, bypassing the Tiger n, constantly charging ahead.


    For cavalry like them,bat prowess and enemy kills weren''t their primary goals. Their objective was simple: to charge deep into enemy lines, disrupting their formations, turning their cohesive armies into chaos.


    The Wolf n''s charge indeed had an effect. They never lingered in battle but kept charging, throwing the Yong forces into disarray, while the following Lou forces pursued in an organized manner.


    This sudden turn of events drastically altered the battle. What had been an evenly matched or even slightly disadvantaged position for Lou suddenly turned into a precarious situation for Yong, with the Lou soldiers'' morale soaring.


    "Kill~~~~~"


    War had begun. ughter ensued.


    Atop a distant mountain peak, Tianjizi smirked coldly.


    The two Earth Immortals gazed at Tianxia Peak, their expressions growing increasingly solemn.


    "This mountain peak is not right," one Earth Immortal frowned.


    "Where is Tiao? Has he betrayed us? Has he betrayed us for his ancestors'' grave?" the other Earth Immortal''s eyes shed with hostility.


    "This mountain peak is likely a Feng Shui formation. It must be destroyed!"


    "I''ll do it!"


    One Earth Immortal soared into the air, charging through a sea of spear and de energies, wielding a long sword and shing fiercely at Tianxia Peak.


    The sword''s mighty swing caused almost everyone to momentarily lose sight, its brilliance blinding. The sword''s power was immense, fueled by the Earth Immortal''s full strength.


    "Open~~~~~"


    "Boom~~~~~"


    A deafening roar shook the surroundings, causing all nearby mountains to tremble. The Earth Immortal was thrown back, but Tianxia Peak remained unscathed.


    Unscathed?


    Tianjizi''s pupils contracted.

 Chapter 715: The Ancient Monster of Tianxia Peak

    <h4>Chapter 715: The Ancient Monster of Tianxia Peak</h4>


    Half a month ago, in the Da Yong Dynasty. In the study of Emperor Gu Zhengyi.


    "Your Majesty, I implore you to revoke the order. Tianxia Peak is where my ancestral tombs lie; it must not be defiled!" Tian Lao suddenly fell to his knees.


    "Tian Lao, what are you doing?" Gu Zhengyi immediately helped Tian Lao to his feet.


    "Your Majesty, when Da Yong was founded, you promised to fulfill a wish of mine. When the former divine powers were in ce, you also promised in front of them to treat me well. But now, my ancestral tombs are to be drenched in blood. Please, Your Majesty, fulfill your old promise!" Although Tian Lao was helped up, he continued to plead.


    Gu Zhengyi frowned slightly, as if he was already hesitating.


    Simace, who was standing nearby, sneered coldly and said, "Withdraw the troops? Tianxia Peak is a strategic point between two dynasties. How can we just withdraw? It''s just an ancestral tomb. After Da Yong takes Tianxia Peak, your majesty can grant it to you, and you can fulfill your filial duty then."


    Hearing Simace''s words, Tian Lao''s face was full of shame and anger. "After the war, grant it to me? How will you restore the dignity of my ancestors'' spirits that have been insulted?"


    "Spirits? Once dead, they either go to the underworld or vanishpletely. What spirits are you talking about? It''s just a pile of dirt!" Simace said disdainfully.


    "You...!" Tian Lao was furious.


    Simace sneered and ignored him.


    "Tian Lao, the battle for Tianxia Peak is crucial. Once we take it, I will grant it to you permanently," Gu Zhengyi said in a deep voice.


    "Your Majesty!" Tian Lao called out again.


    "My decision is made!" Gu Zhengyi said firmly.


    Tian Lao looked at Gu Zhengyi, his eyes full of disappointment. With a dejected demeanor, he hunched over and slowly walked out of the study.


    Watching Tian Lao leave, Simace sneered disdainfully.


    "Sigh!" Gu Zhengyi let out a small sigh.


    "Rest assured, we have sent four of our subordinates, four earth immortals, to assist you. Two will help you take Da Yong, and two will help you resist Da Qin. It is foolproof!" Simace said confidently.


    "Let''s hope so!" Gu Zhengyi frowned.


    For a moment, Gu Zhengyi felt a sense of unease, a bad premonition. Things were not going as he had expected. Da Qin and Taishui were supposed to attack Da Yong, but Taishui had not moved, and Da Qin had sent troops towards him instead. For the first time, Gu Zhengyi felt that the situation was slipping out of his control. Tian Lao''sment seemed to add to his unease.


    The sense of foreboding in Gu Zhengyi''s heart grew stronger.


    Tian Lao left the grand hall and swiftly flew towards Tianxia Peak.


    Outside the capital, Tian Lao looked back at the Da Yong capital with a heart full of resentment. He had always been loyal to Da Yong, yet in the end, he couldn''t even protect his ancestral tombs. When the former divine powers were in ce, they respected him greatly. But now?


    Because of the arrival of a group of outsiders, he, a mere second-stage celestial being, could be discarded like an old shoe?


    "Hmph!" Tian Lao snorted coldly and flew towards Tianxia Peak.


    Tian Lao hurried to the battlefield at Tianxia Peak. The war had already begun.


    The sounds of battle filled the air, heads rolled, and blood stained the sky, forming small rivers of vicious bloodshed.


    On the other side, an earth immortal shed at the ancestral tomb, Tianxia Peak, with a sword.


    "Ancestors������������������������������������


    "Unfilial child!"


    Tian Lao''s wail echoed through the battlefield. Yet, his cries could not halt the advancing army. The Earth Immortal''s sword, aimed at Heaven''s Peak, was deflected by an immense force, sending him flying.


    Tian Lao knew the formidable power of Heaven''s Peak. However, he could not allow his ancestral tomb to be endlessly desecrated. The constant pollution of Heaven''s Peak by copious amounts of blood infuriated him more than the Earth Immortal''s attempt to cleave the mountain.


    Ancestral teachings hadmanded that war''s filthy blood must never stain Heaven''s Peak. But now, the endless wash of blood across the mountain made Tian Lao feel the burden of his failure. "Unfilial child!"


    Sadness welled up in Tian Lao''s heart as he pondered how to stop the war. How could he halt this carnage? The army would not listen to him, but perhaps the battle would cease if themander were killed.


    Themander? Kill Zhao Suoxiang?


    Tian Lao turned his gaze, seeing two figures in the distance within the Da Yung army: one was Mud Buddha, and the other, a tiger nsman, Yin Luori. Wasn''t he sent to the underworld by Gu Shentong? How was he here, entangled with the Da Yung army?


    It was impossible to kill Zhao Suoxiang.


    Suddenly, Tian Lao''s eyes fixed on Huan Tulong. Thinking of the heartache Gu Zhengyi had caused him and the humiliation from Da Yung, he decided on his course of action.


    Tian Lao leapt into the air, flying toward the battlefield. Yin Luori also took to the skies. As both sides approached, Zhao Suoxiang and Huan Tulong slightly separated.


    "Tian Lao, you''ve returned?" Huan Tulong nced at Tian Lao before focusing on their opponents, Yin Luori and Zhao Suoxiang. To Huan Tulong, it seemed an even fight with two against two.


    "Whoosh!"


    Suddenly, a wooden staff pierced through Huan Tulong''s chest. Tian Lao hadunched a surprise attack from behind. The unexpected betrayal left everyone stunned. Yin Luori and Zhao Suoxiang stared in disbelief. Huan Tulong turned his head, eyes wide with incredulity, seeing the staff protruding from his chest. How could this be?


    Yet, Huan Tulong''s ferocity instinctively drove him to strike back at Tian Lao.


    "Boom!"


    Their palms shed, sending Tian Lao retreating a hundred meters, while the grievously injured Huan Tulong sustained even more severe wounds.


    "Swish!" Zhao Suoxiang''s spear severed Huan Tulong''s head.


    Zhao Suoxiang, a hero who disdained deceit, recognized that on the battlefield, there was no honor, only life and death. The quicker Huan Tulong died, the fewer brothers he would lose.


    Huan Tulong never imagined he would die so ignominiously.


    As Zhao Suoxiang severed Huan Tulong''s head, a hush fell over many parts of the battlefield. Themander was dead? Themander was dead! Many soldiers stared in disbelief at the scene.


    "Huan Tulong is dead! Surrender and you will not be killed!" Zhao Suoxiang shouted, holding Huan Tulong''s head high.


    "Surrender and you will not be killed!"


    "Surrender and you will not be killed!"


    The Da Yung army echoed his call.


    Originally, the Da Yung army already had the upper hand. With Huan Tulong''s death, the defeat of the Da Yung forces elerated. The soldiers of Da Yong turned and fled, while the Da Yung soldiers pursued them relentlessly.


    "Kill!"


    This was a one-sided ughter.


    "Bastard!"


    At the moment Tian Lao attacked, another idle Earth Immortal roared. However, before he could move forward, the Earth Immortal attacking Heaven''s Peak screamed in terror.


    "Old Eight,e help!"


    The Earth Immortal, who had been bounced away by Heaven''s Peak earlier, was now radiating a crimson light, with a sinister aura of blood seeping from his body. The horrifying scene made the other Earth Immortal cry out in fear.


    At this moment, countless amounts of blood on the ground began to seep into the earth, all being absorbed by Heaven''s Peak. Heaven''s Peak was drinking blood? The thought sent shivers down everyone''s spine.


    "I''ve been cursed, Old Eight, I''ve been cursed!" the Earth Immortal screamed.


    "What should we do? Why are you covered in blood? Your skin is melting?" Earth Immortal Old Eight shouted in panic.


    "This is a curse! Quickly, help me destroy this mountain! Hurry!" the cursed Earth Immortal yelled.


    Once again, he swung his sword, extending it to a length of ten thousand feet, and struck down with all his might. The other Earth Immortal did the same, unleashing their strongest attack. Their swords shattered the space around them, creating a massive ck hole that seemed to crash down on Heaven''s Peak.


    "Boom!"


    A deafening explosion shook the earth. Countless surrounding peaks copsed, and the ground trembled. Many fleeing soldiers fell to the ground.


    But Heaven''s Peak remained unshaken, though it had now turned crimson as if drenched in blood.


    "I''ve been cursed too! I''ve been cursed too!" Earth Immortal Old Eight screamed.


    "Boom!"


    Halfway up Heaven''s Peak, arge crack appeared, slowly revealing a pce. The pce emitted millions of golden rays, shining like the sun and blinding everyone.


    "What is that?" Mud Buddha and others squinted in defense.


    Countless soldiers were blinded by the sudden golden light and stopped in their tracks.


    The two Earth Immortals stared in horror at the golden pce. On a distant mountaintop, Tian Jizi''s eyes were filled with excitement as he grasped his long sword in anticipation.


    The golden-light-covered pce gates slowly opened. Tian Lao flew to the front and knelt on the ground.


    Suddenly, the golden light vanished. Everyone stared curiously at the pce halfway up the mountain.


    "Step, step, step..."


    Footsteps echoed from inside. Though the source was far away, the sound was eerily clear, as if stepping directly on everyone''s hearts.


    Someone wasing out.


    A man dressed in tattered ck robes, holding a long purple staff, slowly emerged. He was extremely thin, almost just skin and bones. His skin was pitch ck, as if he had just walked out of a coal pit, a frightening sight. His eyes glowed a deep red, and on his forehead was a golden gem, like a sun embedded in his brow, making him appear both terrifying and awe-inspiring.

 Chapter 716: The Perversely Powerful Last Descendant of the Tian Family

    <h4>Chapter 716: The Perversely Powerful Last Descendant of the Tian Family</h4>


    The eerie, ck-skinned man emerged without emitting any aura or exuding any intimidation. Yet, everyone who saw him felt a divine presence, instilling a deep sense of reverence in their hearts.


    Who was this man? This question arose in the minds of everyone, driven by a profound sense of awe.


    Mud Buddha furrowed his brow deeply upon seeing this man.


    "General Zhao, be on high alert. This person is extremely dangerous!" Mud Buddha warned, his voice tinged with fear.


    Zhao Suoxiang nodded, signaling the troops to tighten their formation.


    In the distance, the two Earth Immortals stared at the ck-skinned man who had suddenly appeared. Despite being cursed, they suppressed their anger and fear.


    The ck-skinned man looked down at the kneeling Tian Lao.


    From afar, Tian Jizi suddenly took out a scroll. As he unfurled it, a lifelike portrait of a man, fair-skinned and elegant, exuding supreme authority, came into view. On closer inspection, the man''s features were identical to the ck-skinned man, although his eyes were not blood-red and hecked the sun-like gem on his forehead. He also appeared healthier and more robust.


    The resemnce was unmistakable.


    Tian Jizi''s breath quickened.


    "Ten thousand years ago? Thest head of the Tian family in the mortal realm, Tian Shenzi?" Tian Jizi murmured in disbelief.


    Ten thousand years ago? Thest family head? Tian Shenzi?


    The realization struck Tian Jizi like a thunderbolt, his eyes widening in shock.


    "How is this possible? It''s been ten thousand years. Why doesn''t this small world reject him? How? Could he still not be an immortal? Impossible! Tian Shenzi was a prodigy, the foremost figure of his time. It''s inconceivable that he''s still mortal today," Tian Jizi muttered in astonishment.


    Tian Shenzi, the ck-skinned man, looked at Tian Lao and asked in a faint voice, "Are you the current head of the Tian family?"


    Tian Shenzi''s voice seemed to carry a magical quality, causing those who heard it to feel a tremor in their souls.


    "It''s him! He''s the one who cursed us! Old Eight, let''s kill him! Only by killing him can we break our curse!" one of the Earth Immortals shouted.


    "Kill!" The two Earth Immortals drew their swords simultaneously.


    A powerful killing intent surged towards Tian Shenzi.


    As Tian Shenzi questioned Tian Lao, the sudden onught of killing intent made him slightly raise his head. His blood-red eyes locked onto the two Earth Immortals.


    "Crack!"


    The two Earth Immortals suddenly froze, their bodies rigid and eyes wide with disbelief. Why? How could this be? How could such a monster exist in this small world?


    The paralyzed Earth Immortals fell from the sky, crashing onto a rock.


    "Boom!"


    Upon impact, the two Earth Immortals shattered into pieces as if they were fragile ceramics.


    Everyone felt a chill run down their spines.


    "Stone petrification? What kind of eye technique is this?" Mud Buddha muttered, swallowing hard.


    In an instant, the two Earth Immortals were petrified. The terror was palpable. Earth Immortals, the very epitome of power, had been effortlessly turned to stone. Was this ck-skinned man truly the ancestor of the Tian family? What manner of ancient monster was he?


    From afar, Tian Jizi was equally horrified, slowly rolling up the scroll with a numb scalp. Meanwhile, in the pce of Sima Ce in the Dayong Imperial City, four life tablets of the remaining Earth Immortalsy on a jade tform.


    "Boom! Boom!"


    Two of the tablets shattered explosively. Sima Ce, who had been meditating with closed eyes, snapped them open in shock as he saw the broken jade tablets.


    "Two more? Who keeps killing my subordinates!" Sima Ce roared in fury.


    Grabbing the remaining two jade tablets, Sima Ce stormed out of the pce, determined the direction, and sped towards Heaven''s Peak.


    At Heaven''s Peak, Tian Lao bowed respectfully. "Unworthy descendant of the Tian family, Feng Shui branch, Tian Lao pays respects to the ancestor!"


    "Feng Shui branch? Where is the head of the family?" Tian Shenzi asked indifferently.


    "After the disappearance of the family leaders led by Tian Shenzi ten thousand years ago, the Tian family fell into decline. The head''s lineage vanished, and it is unknown whether they still exist. To think there would still be an ancestor alive in Heaven''s Peak!" Tian Lao replied respectfully.


    Tian Lao couldn''t believe it; an ancestor of the Tian family was still alive in their ancestral tomb. This meant the Tian family could once again rise to the glory of ten thousand years ago. The illustrious Tian family!


    "Tian Shenzi? The leaders disappeared? Declined to this state?" Tian Shenzi closed his eyes slightly.


    "May I ask the ancestor''s name?" Tian Lao immediately asked.


    "I am Tian Shenzi," he replied calmly.


    Tian Shenzi? Tian Lao was stunned. He looked at Tian Shenzi and bowed again with utmost respect.


    "Where is the Tian Order?" Tian Shenzi asked.


    "It disappeared along with the head''s lineage. We do not know if they still exist," Tian Lao bowed.


    "Very well," Tian Shenzi nodded.


    Tian Shenzi extended his index and middle fingers and lightly touched the small sun on his forehead. The small sun emitted a beam of golden light to his fingertips, and Tian Shenzi pointed to the sky.


    Everyone saw a golden ripple spreading out, initially slow, then rapidly elerating. The ripple expanded until it was beyond sight.


    "Hiss..."


    Mud Buddha drew in a sharp breath, his eyes full of terror.


    "What is he doing?" Zhao Suoxiang asked in confusion.


    "He is searching the entire world!" Mud Buddha eximed.


    "What?" Zhao Suoxiang was puzzled.


    "A divine scan that searches the heavens and the earth!" Mud Buddha swallowed hard.


    "A divine scan that searches the heavens and the earth?" Zhao Suoxiang still didn''t understand.


    "With this technique, he can perform a sweeping search for specific items across the entire small world!" Mud Buddha exined, still in shock.


    "Searching the entire small world?" Yin Luori stood agape, unable to close his mouth.


    What kind of ancient monster was this? This was beyond exaggeration. Even Gu Shentong in his prime wasn''t this terrifying. How could such a monster exist in the mortal realm?


    Tian Jizi stood at a distance, filled with excitement, fear, and shock. The Tian family of the mortal realm? Was this the depth of their heritage? A divine scan of the heavens and the earth? Tian Shenzi was this formidable?


    The sheer power of this technique was astonishing, rapidly spreading across the boundless realms of heaven and earth.


    In the Da Yung Empire, within the rear pce of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court:


    "Zhong Shan, look! Look! What''s happening with the Tian Order? Why is it glowing with golden light?" Tian Ling''er eximed, holding the Tian Order in wonder and handing it to Zhong Shan.


    The Tian Order was emitting a radiant golden light, trembling slightly in a bizarre manner.


    Zhong Shan grabbed it, and Tian Ling''er held onto it with her other hand.


    Suddenly, the Tian Order''s golden light exploded, enveloping both Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er. They were wrapped in a cocoon of golden light.


    Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Master!" Bao''er cried out in rm, bewildered by the sudden change.


    Zhong Shan didn''t feel any life-threatening danger, and the Red Luan Pink Lotus at his brow didn''t change color.


    "Don''t worry about me!" Zhong Shan said.


    But just as he finished speaking,


    "Boom!"


    The golden light surrounding Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er smashed through the roof, shooting into the sky, and then vanished in a sh towards the northeast, disappearing from sight.


    The Tian Order had forcefully taken Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er? No, it was heading directly towards Heaven''s Peak. This was Tian Shenzi manipting the Tian Order from a vast distance, simr to how ancient monsters of the Eternal Life Realm could control the Four Immortal Execution Swords from afar.


    Zhong Shan was forcibly taken away?


    The sudden event threw Bao''er into a panic.


    "Sister! Is Zhong Shan alright?" Bei Qingsi suddenly grabbed Bao''er.


    Bei Qingsi''s grip steadied Bao''er''s emotions. She immediately walked out of the pce andmanded, "Quick, summon Di Xuansha, quickly!"


    "Yes!" a subordinate outside the pce responded immediately.


    Shortly after Zhong Shan''s departure, Di Xuansha received the news and met with the two empresses. After understanding the situation, Di Xuansha did not hesitate and swiftly flew towards the northeast.


    "Sister, will Zhong Shan be alright?" Bei Qingsi asked worriedly.


    "He will be fine. Master said he would be fine before leaving, so he will be fine. Definitely," Bao''er replied anxiously but with unwavering conviction.


    In the Qin Empire, at the Holy Capital of Xianyang, Ying Zheng was holding court.


    "Your Majesty, General Bai Qi has sent a victory report..." Li Si reported respectfully.


    While Ying Zheng listened, he suddenly raised his hand to stop Li Si, who, though puzzled, immediately ceased speaking.


    "Whoosh!"


    Ying Zheng suddenly stood up, looking at the calm sea of luck clouds in the sky, narrowing his eyes.


    With a step, Ying Zheng disappeared from the hall.


    The entire court was left bewildered. What had just happened? Why did the emperor suddenly leave?


    "Prime Minister Lu, did you feel it?" Li Si finally furrowed his brow.


    "My strength hasn''t fully recovered. You have recovered more than I have. What happened?" Lu Buwei asked, frowning.


    "A divine scan that searches the heavens and the earth!" Li Si took a deep breath and said solemnly.


    Upon hearing Li Si''s words, Lu Buwei''s pupils contracted.


    "Is there such a powerful figure in this world?" Lu Buwei''s brow furrowed deeply.


    At Heaven''s Peak.


    After executing the ''Divine Scan of the Heavens and the Earth,'' Tian Shenzi looked around.


    From a distant mountain peak, Tian Jizi seemed to feel Tian Shenzi''s gaze and immediately flew towards him.


    "Tian Jizi?" Yin Luori eximed.


    Yin Luori couldn''t believe it. How was it possible to see Tian Jizi in the mortal realm again? How had he ascended? Weren''t the Tian family members of the underworld unable toe to the mortal realm? Otherwise, they would have done so long ago.


    Tian Jizi flew close to Tian Lao.


    Tian Shenzi''s blood-red eyes also fixed on Tian Jizi, waiting for him to speak.


    Upon nearing, Tian Jizi bowed respectfully.


    "Former head of the underworld''s Tian family, Tian Jizi, pays respects to the ancestor of the mortal realm''s Tian family!" Tian Jizi bowed deeply.

 Chapter 717: Tian Shenzi Denounces Zhong Shan with a Single Sentence

    <h4>Chapter 717: Tian Shenzi Denounces Zhong Shan with a Single Sentence</h4>


    "The former head of the underworld Tian family, Tian Jizi, pays respects to the ancestor of the mortal realm!" Tian Jizi bowed deeply.


    Tian Shenzi looked at Tian Jizi impassively.


    Kneeling nearby, Tian Lao''s pupils contracted, and a sh of anger crossed his eyes. "You are from the underworld Tian family?"


    "Why have youe?" Tian Shenzi asked coldly.


    "To recognize my ancestors and return to my roots for the underworld Tian family," Tian Jizi said respectfully.


    Tian Shenzi scrutinized Tian Jizi, then said, "Your soul is no longer of the Tian family, nor is your bloodline or destiny. I am not your ancestor!"


    Tian Jizi raised his eyebrows, taken aback that he was being rejected even in seeking to acknowledge his ancestors.


    Suddenly, Tian Shenzi narrowed his eyes and said, "Your eyes harbor cunning, your forehead is dark, your face bears an aura of malevolence, and your bones reveal treachery. Your appearance hides a sinister plot. You have note to recognize your ancestors; you seek the ''Tian Order'' of my Tian family?"


    By the end, Tian Shenzi''s tone had turned fierce.


    Hearing this, Tian Jizi''s expression changed. How did he know? Through reading his face? Nonsense!


    Trying to remain calm, Tian Jizi quickly said, "Senior, you misunderstand. I harbor no sinister intentions, none at all!"


    "So, you are saying I am wrong?" Tian Shenzi said coldly.


    Tian Shenzi''s resoluteness made Tian Jizi increasingly panicked. What ability did this ancient monster possess to discern a person''s true nature with just a nce?


    "Then, Senior, you must provide evidence. I am absolutely innocent!" Tian Jizi said, retreating a bit.


    Tian Jizi could feel Tian Shenzi''s murderous intent and was ready to flee.


    "My word is the evidence!" Tian Shenzi said coldly.


    As he spoke, Tian Shenzi suddenly extended his right index finger. Sensing the impending threat, Tian Jizi''s figure flickered and vanished from everyone''s sight, fleeing desperately.


    "Escape?" Tian Shenzi shouted coldly.


    A red beam shot from his fingertip.


    "Ah!"


    A distant scream drew everyone''s attention. In an instant, nearly everyone felt a surge of fear. Tian Jizi''s body fell from the sky, crashing into the ground.


    No one believed Tian Jizi was merely injured. If Tian Shenzi had personally struck, survival was impossible.


    Tian Shenzi did not kill anyone else. The forces of the Dayong Imperial Court quickly fled. Theirmander was dead, the Earth Immortals were destroyed, and Tian Lao had betrayed them. The blows were too heavy.


    However, at Mud Buddha''s insistence, the Da Yung army did not retreat. Zhong Shan had once asked Mud Buddha about the ''Tian Order,'' but Mud Buddha did not know much. Given the legendary ''Tian Family'' of Shenzhou and Empress Tian Ling''er, Mud Buddha knew this matter was undoubtedly connected to the emperor.


    "Tian Lao, how much of the Tian family''s Feng Shui branch have you mastered?" Tian Shenzi asked.


    "What was passed down by the previous generation, I have learned in full. I do not know if anything was lost over time," Tian Lao replied.


    "Hmm, it has been ten thousand years. Some knowledge might have been lost. I will now impart to you all the Feng Shui techniques. In the future, assist the family head to the best of your ability," Tian Shenzi said.


    "Yes!" Tian Lao responded respectfully.


    Tian Shenzi extended a finger and touched Tian Lao''s forehead. Tian Lao closed his eyes, seemingly receiving the knowledge passed down by Tian Shenzi.


    Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er were enveloped in the golden sphere of light emitted by the Tian Order, shooting rapidly towards the northeast.


    "Zhong Shan, will we be alright?" Tian Ling''er asked worriedly.


    Zhong Shan held Tian Ling''er close andforted her gently, "We will be fine. Don''t worry."


    "Mm!" Tian Ling''er nodded, reassured by his words.


    Shortly after Zhong Shan departed, Di Xuansha rapidly pursued him, and another person from Lingxiao Heavenly Court also gave chase. Xuanyuan spread his wings, flying at an incredible speed, heading towards Di Xuansha.


    Ying Zheng was flying towards Heaven''s Peak, as was Sima Ce. Heaven''s Peak had once again be the focal point for the world''s powerful figures.


    On the battlefield between Da Yung and Da Qin, Gu Zhantian led his troops against the Da Qin army. Behind Gu Zhantian were two Earth Immortals. Across the battlefield, a bronze war chariot stood, atop which was a fierce warrior d in armor.


    "God of Killing, Bai Qi?" Gu Zhantian raised an eyebrow.


    During the northern expedition, Huan Tulong had encountered Bai Qi but had conceded the fight, abandoning the contested territory of the Dali Heavenly Empire. Unexpectedly, within just a few decades, Gu Zhantian was now facing Bai Qi himself.


    "Two elders, this is the man. As long as he lives, Da Yung will never have peace. If you can deal with him, the rest will be no trouble for us," Gu Zhantian said to the two Earth Immortals.


    The two Earth Immortals exchanged a nce.


    "If you put it that way, very well. We will deal with him, but the rest is up to you," one of the Earth Immortals replied.


    "Understood," Gu Zhantian nodded.


    Sima Ce sped towards Heaven''s Peak with the ferocity of a celestial being. What had happened in the south? Why had his two subordinates at Heaven''s Peak been killed? Who was responsible? He vowed to tear them apart.


    At this moment, Sima Ce''s eyes were filled with regret. What kind of small world was this? Why were the people here so monstrous? It was too eerie. In other small worlds, two Earth Immortals could sweep across thend. But here, he had lost eight Earth Immortals, and not at the hands of a single person. The number of powerful figures here was overwhelming.


    While Sima Ce pondered the strange nature of this world, thest two life tablets hanging at his waist suddenly exploded.


    "Boom! Boom!"


    Sima Ce stopped in his tracks, uninjured physically but devastated emotionally. Thest two? Thest two. This was too bizarre, too bizarre!


    Like the events at Heaven''s Peak, the simultaneous explosions indicated that the two Earth Immortals had been killed almost simultaneously. Who was it? Who was responsible on that side?


    "Roar!"


    Sima Ce roared in rage at the sky, causing the surrounding space to tremble.


    Heaven''s Peak or the western battlefield?


    With blood-red eyes, Sima Ce faced a difficult choice but ultimately decided to head for Heaven''s Peak, as he was already halfway there.


    With a blur of motion, Sima Ce shot southward once more.


    At Heaven''s Peak, Tian Lao sat cross-legged, while Tian Shenzi looked towards the southwest.


    One dayter, Tian Shenzi narrowed his eyes.


    "Whoosh!"


    A beam of golden light streaked through the sky, arriving at Heaven''s Peak in an instant anding to a halt.


    The golden light faded, revealing Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er holding the Tian Order.


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live, long live, long live!"


    The Da Yung army shouted in unison.


    Zhong Shan suddenly appeared at Heaven''s Peak, turning to look at Mud Buddha and the others not far away.


    Mud Buddha and the others quickly flew up to guard Zhong Shan''s side.


    Zhong Shan once again turned to face the two hostile figures: Tian Lao, who sat cross-legged, and apletely ck-skinned man with a gem-like small sun embedded in his forehead. The sight of this small sun made Zhong Shan''s pupils contract, as a vague, unsettling feeling brewed in his heart.


    At that moment, Tian Lao suddenly opened his eyes and looked at the ck-skinned man. "Thank you, Ancestor!"


    Tian Shenzi ignored Tian Lao and instead focused on Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er, particrly the ''Tian Order'' in Tian Ling''er''s hand. With a wave of his hand, the Tian Order flew out of Tian Ling''er''s grasp and into Tian Shenzi''s hand.


    "What are you doing? That was left to me by my father!" Tian Ling''er cried out in distress.


    Zhong Shan pulled Tian Ling''er back and shook his head at her. Although he had arrived mysteriously, he had quickly deduced from the maniption of the Tian Order and Tian Lao''s address of the ck-skinned man as ''Ancestor'' that this person was likely an ancient ancestor of the Tian family.


    "Your Majesty, this person is named ''Tian Shenzi,''" Mud Buddha quickly informed Zhong Shan.


    "Tian Shenzi?" Tian Ling''er frowned.


    Tian Shenzi looked at the Tian Order, his blood-red eyes filled with a mixture of nostalgia and reverence. He then looked up at Tian Ling''er, as if he could determine her Tian family heritage just by her appearance.


    "Are you the current head of the Tian family?" Tian Shenzi asked.


    "My master is Tian Xingzi, the former head of the Tian family. This is my wife, Tian Ling''er, who has inherited everything from my master and is the current head of the Tian family," Zhong Shan quickly interjected.


    Upon arriving and assessing the situation, Zhong Shan made the most prudent decision.


    Tian Shenzi nced at Zhong Shan, his brows slightly furrowed before revealing a peculiar look. "The former head Tian Xingzi? You are Tian Xingzi''s disciple?"


    "The Emperor of Da Yung, Zhong Shan, greets the senior," Zhong Shan said respectfully.


    Mud Buddha and the others remained on guard. Zhong Shan waved his hand, signaling them to retreat. Although they hesitated, Mud Buddha, Zhao Suoxiang, and the others stepped back.


    "A broad foundation of roots and bones, yet not even five hundred years old. Though you are only an inw of the Tian family, to have such fortune is surprising. Zhong Shan?" Tian Shenzi said calmly.


    "Zhong Shan!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "You possess both luck and merit," Tian Shenzi noted. He then looked at Mud Buddha and added, "The Da Yung Empire? Feng Shui, umted yin virtue, fame? Practicing all three aspects? Are you seeking to cultivate your destiny?"


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. He looked at Tian Shenzi with shock. How did he discern so much just by looking at him?


    Mud Buddha seemed to sense something unusual and whispered to Zhao Suoxiang, who nodded and began directing the army to withdraw from the area.


    "Zhong Shan is ignorant and seeks the senior''s guidance," Zhong Shan said respectfully.


    From Tian Shenzi''s words, Zhong Shan detected a hint of hope, suggesting that Tian Shenzi had some insight or expertise in this area.

 Chapter 718: Ying vs. Tian Shenzi

    <h4>Chapter 718: Ying vs. Tian Shenzi</h4>


    Tian Shenzi looked at Tian Ling''er, the current head of the Tian family. He gently tossed the Tian Order back to her. Tian Ling''er clutched it tightly, as if afraid Tian Shenzi might take it again. Seeing her simple and innocent demeanor, Tian Shenzi shook his head, then took a deep breath and turned his gaze to Zhong Shan.


    Although this current family head was not very strong, her husband was clearly a formidable figure. Zhong Shan patiently waited as Tian Shenzi observed him, then shook his head and sighed, "Too little, too little!"


    "Too little of what?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    By now, Zhao Suoxiang had withdrawn the surrounding troops, leaving only Tian Shenzi, Tian Lao, Tian Ling''er, Zhong Shan, Mud Buddha, and Yin Luori.


    "The fortune you have gathered is too little, and the merit you have umted is still too little," Tian Shenzi said inly.


    "Too little?" Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    Yin Luori stood by, speechless. This was considered little? The fortune of the Da Yung Empire rivaled that of the heavenly realms in the underworld, and its merit wasparable to that of a holynd.


    "You have managed toprehend both fortune and merit, which is no small feat. Even in the Grand World, only a few know about this," Tian Shenzi said.


    "Then, senior, may I ask, can fortune and merit bepatible?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "Of course they can bepatible. However, the order is: fate first, then fortune, followed by Feng Shui, umted yin virtue, and fame. All five are indispensable," Tian Shenzi replied.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up. He bowed respectfully, "I humbly request the senior to instruct me."


    "What is the greatest thing in the heavens and earth?" Tian Shenzi asked.


    "The Dao?" Zhong Shan guessed.


    Tian Shenzi shook his head.


    "Fate?" Zhong Shan guessed again.


    "Half correct," Tian Shenzi nodded approvingly.


    "Oh?"


    "What is fate?" Tian Shenzi asked.


    "I don''t know," Zhong Shan admitted honestly. He only had a vague concept of fate.


    "One''s fate is abination of thetter four elements: fortune, Feng Shui, umted yin virtue, and fame. To cultivate fate is to understand and integrate these four elements. They must be united into one; none can be missing," Tian Shenzi exined.


    "Integrating the four elements means cultivating fate? Then what happens when fortune and merit arebined?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It bes qi," Tian Shenzi said.


    "Qi?" Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed.


    "Yes, qi. Qi is the essence of cultivating fate," Tian Shenzi said calmly.


    "Qi? What is its function?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "For a cultivator of fate, qi is everything. If one''s qi is exhausted, even a saint will perish," Tian Shenzi said, with a hint of sorrow.


    "That''s only half. What about the other half?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    Tian Shenzi seemed wistful and expectant. "The other half, if mastered, would grant true immortality. Even in the Grand World, no saint has mastered it. It''s incredibly difficult."


    "Immortality? What is the other half?" Zhong Shan''s eyes brightened.


    Tian Shenzi looked down, staring deeply at Zhong Shan. "Boy, don''t reach too far too quickly. The other half is beyond your current grasp. First, condense tangible qi."


    Zhong Shan nodded, absorbing the wisdom of Tian Shenzi''s words. This conversation had revealed profound insights into the mysteries of fate and cultivation, setting a new path for his ambitions.


    "Thank you for your guidance, Senior. But how does one condense tangible qi?" Zhong Shan asked earnestly.


    "Forming tangible qi, unique to oneself, varies from person to person. I cannot teach you that. You mustprehend it on your own," Tian Shenzi replied calmly.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded solemnly.


    Tian Ling''er blinked her beautiful eyes, clearly not understanding Tian Shenzi''s words.


    After a deep look at Tian Ling''er, Tian Shenzi spoke, "Head of the Tian Family!"


    Tian Ling''er, not fully grasping the situation, was nudged gently by Zhong Shan.


    "Huh? Are you talking to me?" Tian Ling''er asked.


    Seeing her innocent demeanor, Tian Shenzi chuckled bitterly. "If the Fate Lineage of the Tian Family wasn''t reduced to just you, I would definitely choose someone else as the family head!"


    Tian Ling''er pouted, clearly unhappy with his remark.


    "I have strayed from the ancestral path, and the Tian Order is useless to me now. You are the family head. Follow me into the hall, and I will pass on the leadership to you," Tian Shenzi said, frowning at Zhong Shan. Tian Ling''er looked at Zhong Shan as if seeking his approval, as if Tian Shenzi were a big bad wolf.


    Just as Zhong Shan was about to respond, Tian Shenzi suddenly looked up into the distance.


    Everyone turned to see a sh of ck light. A figure in a dragon robe suddenly appeared above them.


    It was the Emperor of Da Qin, Ying!


    Ying had arrived in just about a day, despite the distance being several times farther than Sima Ce''s journey. Even though Sima Ce had set off earlier, Ying arrived first.


    The mysterious and unfathomable Ying.


    Zhong Shan turned to look at Ying, who looked back at him and nodded slightly. It was clear that in Ying''s eyes, Zhong Shan was a person of significance, not just a minor figure to be ignored.


    Zhong Shan nodded in return.


    Ying stared at Tian Shenzi. Their gazes locked, both showing a hint of confusion.


    Then, a sh of shock passed through both of their eyes.


    "Who are you?" Tian Shenzi asked, astonished, as he looked at Ying.


    Ying was equally surprised, his eyes fixed on the small, sun-like gem on Tian Shenzi''s forehead.


    "The Da Qin Empire, Ying. Eighty thousand years ago, the foremost person in the world. Returned to the mortal realm two hundred years ago," Zhong Shan exined.


    Eighty thousand years ago, the foremost person in the world?


    The implication was profound. At that time, if Ying imed to be the second most powerful, no one would dare im the first. At least publicly, he was unrivaled.


    This information came from Zhong Shan''s extensive research into ancient texts over the years.


    Every era had its most illustrious figures, those who stood tall in Shenzhou. Ying was the foremost person of his era, eighty thousand years ago.


    Gu Shentong was the foremost person of the previous era, butpared to Ying, he fell slightly short. After all, Gu Shentong did not survive past the limit of ten thousand years, whereas Ying had lived for eighty thousand years.


    The Zombie Emperor, Ying!


    Ying took a deep breath, his eyes fixed on the sun-like gem on Tian Shenzi''s forehead.


    "Such a ruthless decision, such immense courage. To forcefully integrate the ''qi'' of a cycle into a mortal body. No wonder this realm doesn''t reject you. A mortal? Such a powerful mortal!" Ying gave high praise.


    "Neither living nor dead, a Jiangshi body. You have great courage! I did not expect such a formidable talent to emerge in Shenzhou during my ''transcendence'' years," Tian Shenzi remarked, taking a deep breath.


    "Ten thousand years ago, the foremost person in Shenzhou, thest head of the Tian family, Tian Shenzi?" Ying asked.


    "Indeed," Tian Shenzi nodded.


    One was the foremost person in Shenzhou ten thousand years ago, and the other was the foremost person eight thousand years ago.


    The two stood facing each other, the others not daring to interrupt. Both men regarded each other with gravity.


    "The illustrious Tian family would not be easily extinguished. To integrate ''qi'' into a mortal body is unprecedented. Even in the Grand World, no one dares tread this path," Ying said calmly.


    "To cultivate a Jiangshi body using a mortal form, and sessfully so, is also unprecedented. Even in the Grand World, no one dares tread this path," Tian Shenzi replied equally calmly.


    "The illustrious Tian family, known throughout Shenzhou even after two thousand years. Each of the five branches was the best in Shenzhou, with the strongest celestial dynasty, the strongest holynd, the strongest Feng Shui masters, and the strongest fortune masters. And you, the strongest family head! Holding one of the twelve ancient treasures, the ''Unyielding Mountain Staff,'' which you now wield?" Ying asked.


    The Unyielding Mountain Staff?


    Everyone''s gaze shifted to the purple staff in Tian Shenzi''s hand. It looked ordinary, without any special aura, just like Tian Shenzi��unassuming. Was this really one of the twelve ancient treasures?


    "Good eye. The foremost person in Shenzhou from eight thousand years ago, I assume you also possess one of the twelve ancient treasures?" Tian Shenzi inquired.


    "It''s been a long time since anyone has dared to challenge my treasure. Do you ept the challenge?" Ying''s eyes sparkled with excitement.


    "As you wish," Tian Shenzi said solemnly.


    Both men, being the foremost in Shenzhou in their respective eras, admired each other''s strength and treasures. A duel was not just a test of their treasures but also a means to gauge each other''s strength and position.


    "Please," Tian Shenzi said.


    The surrounding people stepped back.


    Ying extended his palm towards the sky and pulled down a colossal bronze coffin from the stars. The coffin exuded a dense aura of killing intent, mixed with a faint noble purple glow, making it even more terrifying.


    Seeing this treasure, everyone felt a shiver of fear. It was a fear from deep within their souls, as if their bodies were being sealed by the coffin.


    "The ''World-Suppressing Bronze Coffin'' among the twelve ancient treasures," Zhong Shan muttered in awe.


    So the World-Suppressing Bronze Coffin was in Ying''s possession.


    As the bronze coffin descended from the sky, the surrounding area suddenly became extraordinarily clear.


    Extraordinarily clear? Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. It was as if something had changed, yet also seemed unchanged.


    Tian Shenzi lightly tossed the Unyielding Mountain Staff, which then embedded itself into the ground. Suddenly, a massive mountain sprouted, charging towards the World-Suppressing Bronze Coffin.


    The two colossal objects collided with a deafening silence.


    "..."


    There was no sound, not even a whisper. It was not that there was no sound; it was too loud, causing everyone to go momentarily deaf.


    "Ring..."


    After the initial deafness, a ringing sound filled everyone''s ears. Yet, no external sound could be heard.


    When the Unyielding Mountain Staff and the World-Suppressing Bronze Coffin collided, the surrounding space did not shatter. Instead, only a slight ripple appeared where they met.


    Two ancient treasures colliding, causing only a small spatial ripple? Impossible.


    Zhong Shan couldn''t believe it. It was absolutely impossible. Judging by the fact that everyone was still deafened, this collision was more powerful than anything Zhong Shan had ever witnessed.


    At that moment, a white figure shed by in the distance. Di Xuansha arrived just as the duel between these powerful beings was taking ce.

 Chapter 719: The Covenant of the Creation Divine Palace

    <h4>Chapter 719: The Covenant of the Creation Divine Pce</h4>


    The duel between Tian Shenzi and Ying was a sh of titans, the strongest individuals Zhong Shan had ever encountered. Though Zhong Shan didn''t know their full extent, he was certain that even a celestial would find death in facing these two.


    Unfortunately, the spectators could only watch in silence, unable to hear a sound from the epic battle.


    Di Xuansha suddenly appeared beside Zhong Shan, just in time to witness the monumental sh between the Unyielding Mountain Staff and the World-Suppressing Bronze Coffin.


    Di Xuansha''s pupils contracted as he grabbed Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er, Mud Buddha, and Yin Luori, quickly moving them away from the battlefield. Tian Lao followed closely behind.


    Ten thousand miles away, Zhao Suoxiang led the army in encampment. Despite the distance, the terrifying ringing in their ears persisted.


    "General Zhao, take your troops and retreat another thirty thousand miles," Di Xuansha ordered.


    Although they couldn''t hear any other sounds, Di Xuansha''s voice mysteriously reached Zhong Shan and the others.


    Zhao Suoxiang looked at Zhong Shan, who nodded in agreement. Zhao Suoxiang then took out a g and quickly signaled the army to retreat. Di Xuansha''s voice also reached the wolves, while Yin Luori used a secret technique to inform all tiger n members to follow the army''s withdrawal.


    They retreated to forty thousand miles away.


    Only then did they begin to feel somewhat better, regaining their hearing.


    "What just happened?" Yin Luori asked, frowning in shock.


    "Ying and that ck-d man solidified the surrounding space," Di Xuansha said, taking a deep breath.


    "Solidified the surrounding space?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, the space in a small world is very fragile. A powerful celestial can shatter the void, while in the Grand World, even a celestial cannot disturb the slightest spatial ripple. The space there is the most solid. Ying and that ck-d man solidified this area of space, making it much more stable than in a small world, though still not as solid as the Grand World," Di Xuansha exined.


    "No wonder I felt the world suddenly be brighter," Tian Ling''er realized.


    Zhong Shan also recalled that he had felt a sudden rity in the world when the two had made their moves.


    "Why is the space in the Grand World so solid?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I don''t know," Di Xuansha shook his head.


    In the distance, the Unyielding Mountain Staff hadpletely transformed into a massive mountain. Its imposing presence seemed tomand reverence and worship.


    Above, the World-Suppressing Bronze Coffin hadn''t grown muchrger, but it was surrounded by a dense aura of killing intent, as if it held the power to suppress the world, making hearts stop.


    "The Unyielding Mountain Staff, unseen for ten thousand years, is still so powerful," Di Xuansha marveled.


    "Oh? You know these two treasures?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, though most have only heard their names without knowing their power. Each of the twelve ancient treasures has a legendary history to earn its ce. The Heaven-Opening Axe can cleave the heavens and the earth! The Unyielding Mountain Staff once supported both heaven and earth, a true pir of the world. It crushed an entire celestial dynasty into oblivion. No one could stand against it, so even after countless years, its might cannot be forgotten," Di Xuansha exined.


    "And the World-Suppressing Bronze Coffin?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "The World-Suppressing Bronze Coffin is simr. Once, it sealed an entire celestial dynasty under the emperor''smand, reducing three hundred cities to dust, leaving nothing but devastation."


    Listening to Di Xuansha, Zhong Shan felt a chill in his heart. An entire celestial dynasty reduced to powder?


    Was this really just a treasure? Such terrifying power! Could Ying destroy an entire celestial dynasty on his own?


    Zhong Shan shivered inwardly. These ancient treasures of Shenzhou, were they all this powerful? Why did the ones he had encountered seem so much weaker byparison?


    In the distance, the World-Suppressing Bronze Coffin and the Unyielding Mountain Staff had collided eight times already. Each collision, though seemingly gentle, was immensely powerful.


    As this was happening, another figure appeared beside Zhong Shan and the others��a white-d man with enormous wings, Xuan Yuan.


    "The Unyielding Mountain Staff?" Xuan Yuan eximed in surprise.


    Seeing the Unyielding Mountain Staff, a look of uncertainty and astonishment filled Xuan Yuan''s eyes.


    For the ninth time, the two ancient treasures collided.


    "Boom!"


    This time, the collision produced a deafening sound, a super loud, terrifying explosion. The area around Heaven''s Peak suddenly turned into a massive ck hole, shattering the spacepletely. The diameter of the ck hole was ten thousand miles wide, and the tremendous shockwave instantly crushed everything within twenty thousand miles.


    Even the army that had retreated to thirty thousand miles away suffered. Many soldiers were gravely injured internally, coughing up blood from the shock.


    Despite the solidified space created by the two mighty beings, the space was torn apart, showcasing the sheer power of the collision.


    The shattered space quickly began to mend, like a void in water being filled by surrounding streams. Within the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, the space had restored itself.


    The ten thousand miles of mountains and rivers had turned into a desert, with only Heaven''s Peak still standing at the center.


    Zhong Shan and the others quickly flew back. By now, Ying had already put away the World-Suppressing Bronze Coffin.


    Ying and Tian Shenzi stood facing each other from a distance, silent.


    "Your mortal body has not yet fully merged with ''qi,''" Ying said calmly.


    "Your Jiangshi body is also not yet perfected," Tian Shenzi replied in kind.


    "One day, in the Grand World, we shall battle again," Ying dered.


    "As you wish," Tian Shenzi agreed.


    It seemed the two had not reached a definitive oue. Certainly, neither had fought with their full strength, and there was a sense of mutual respect. Ying and Tian Shenzi nodded to each other.


    Ying nced at Di Xuansha and Xuan Yuan, nodding at them before disappearing.


    The pinnacle duel, though unresolved, had given Ying what he sought. Tian Shenzi''s position in Ying''s mind was firmly established.


    Having achieved his purpose, Ying returned to his empire.


    As Tian Shenzi watched Ying leave, he sighed slightly and turned his crimson gaze towards the group, finally focusing on Xuan Yuan, who had retracted his wings.


    Tian Shenzi''s crimson eyes locked onto Xuan Yuan, causing Xuan Yuan''s pupils to contract. His eyes turned silver, emitting a faint white light.


    "The Creation Divine Pce?" Tian Shenzi asked in a deep voice.


    "Creation Divine Pce, Xuan Yuan, greets the senior," Xuan Yuan said respectfully, bowing to Tian Shenzi.


    "Ten thousand years... He really founded the ''Creation Divine Pce''?" Tian Shenzi sighed softly.


    "Senior, are you ''Tian Shenzi''?" Xuan Yuan asked with increasing certainty.


    "Yes," Tian Shenzi nodded.


    Upon receiving Tian Shenzi''s confirmation, Xuan Yuan took out an object��a miniature pce, floating in his palm, emitting a small cluster of yellow light.


    Merit? Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted in surprise as he watched.


    "The first generation Pce Master honored his agreement with you, founding the ''Creation Divine Pce'' to protect this realm. Although the pce has only one member per generation and does not actively seek merit, it still bears immense merit. This was the boundless merit you bestowed upon the first Pce Master. Even after ten thousand years, a small portion remains. Over the ten thousand years, the Creation Divine Pce has eliminated sixteen waves of intruders from the Grand World. Now that we have seen the Unyielding Mountain Staff again, our mission isplete. I return this to you," Xuan Yuan said respectfully, offering the miniature pce to Tian Shenzi.


    Tian Shenzi looked at the pce in Xuan Yuan''s palm and then at Xuan Yuan himself. "You have just reached the fourth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm, and that was only half a year ago. Are you sure you don''t want to keep it?"


    "Whose item it is, belongs to them. The Creation Divine Pce has not fallen so low as to abandon its principles for an external item," Xuan Yuan replied firmly.


    Tian Shenzi nodded, acknowledging the simrity between Xuan Yuan and the first generation Pce Master. "You are very much like him, the same character."


    "Thank you," Xuan Yuan responded humbly.


    "What happened to him in the end?" Tian Shenzi asked.


    "The first generation Pce Master, when his lifespan was nearing its end, transcended the tribtion and left this realm," Xuan Yuan said solemnly.


    "He truly kept his promise," Tian Shenzi nodded.


    Tian Shenzi did not take the pce from Xuan Yuan. Instead, he said, "This item originally belongs to the Grand World. It was something we obtained together. After ten thousand years of guarding this realm for me, this item rightfully belongs to you. I will not take it back, and the mission of the Creation Divine Pce is nowplete."


    Xuan Yuan looked deeply at Tian Shenzi, then nodded and epted the pce, putting it away with a flip of his hand. He bowed deeply to Tian Shenzi once more.


    Zhong Shan, standing nearby, was slightly astonished. The fourth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm? No, half a year ago, Xuan Yuan was only at the third level? To have fought six Earth Immortals at the third level? This Xuan Yuan was indeed formidable!


    Having settled matters with the Creation Divine Pce, Tian Shenzi nced at Di Xuansha, a hint of curiosity shing in his eyes before he nodded.


    Di Xuansha also nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Alright, follow me into the hall. I will pass on the family head''s responsibilities to you," Tian Shenzi said to Tian Ling''er.


    Tian Ling''er moved closer to Zhong Shan, clearly not feeling veryfortable around Tian Shenzi, as if he were a big bad wolf.


    Seeing the current family head''s expression, Tian Shenzi was momentarily speechless. After a pause, he looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Youe in with us too," Tian Shenzi said, a trace of resignation in his voice.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up at the invitation.


    Suddenly, a piercing sound filled the air, and a green light shed from the distance, appearing before everyone in an instant.


    Following Ying''s departure, another supreme being had arrived��Sima Ce!


    Sima Ce appeared suddenly, surveying the desertified surroundings with a deep frown. His eyes widened in anger as he noticed the destruction and the absence of his subordinates.


    A murderous gleam shed in Sima Ce''s eyes as he red at the group near the pce at Heaven''s Peak.

 Chapter 720: The Terrifying Small World

    <h4>Chapter 720: The Terrifying Small World</h4>


    A murderous gleam shed in Sima Ce''s eyes as he red at the group near the pce on Heaven''s Peak. There stood Tian Shenzi, Tian Lao, Zhong Shan, Tian Ling''er, Xuan Yuan, Di Xuansha, Mud Buddha, and Yin Luori��a total of eight people. Sima Ce''s eyes grew cold as he stared at them.


    Taking out a jade bottle, Sima Ce poured out a single drop of purple liquid.


    "The Tear of the Kylin Cow?" Tian Shenzi murmured, frowning slightly.


    Sima Ce suddenly shot the tear into his right eye, causing it to emit a faint purple glow. He scanned each person with his enhanced vision. When his gaze fell on Tian Shenzi, a sh of confusion crossed his eyes.


    "It seems this small world''s technique for hiding cultivation is quite formidable. Even with the Tear of the Kylin Cow, I can''t see through it," Sima Ce said, his voice icy as he looked at Tian Shenzi.


    "An outsider from the Grand World?" Tian Shenzi''s tone was cold.


    "Xuan Yuan? Only at the fourth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm? On par with my subordinates? And you, Di Xuansha? Zhong Shan? Did you kill my subordinates? Did you kill my divine beast? And what about my other two subordinates��were they killed by you?" Sima Ce''s voice dripped with menace.


    Di Xuansha stepped forward, staring at Sima Ce. "If it weren''t for Zhong Shan holding me back, your other subordinate wouldn''t have escaped that day. We wanted to give you a lesson, to make you retreat. But you''vee seeking death?"


    Sima Ce suddenlyughed maniacally. "Hahahaha! Seeking death? Kill me? Just you? You, at the eleventh level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm, think you can kill me? Even if Gu Shentong were here, he wouldn''t return alive. In this world, I am invincible!" Sima Ce snarled.


    Di Xuansha smiled coldly, while the others looked at Sima Ce as if he were a fool.


    "You are invincible in this world?" Even the naive Tian Ling''er looked at Sima Ce with disdain.


    "All of you,e at me together. You must have some ability if you killed my subordinates. Let me see how strong you really are!" Sima Ce said arrogantly.


    The group exchanged strange looks. All of them, together?


    Seeing their cold stares, Sima Ce''s heart skipped a beat. He recalled his previous arrogance and the certainty of his subordinates'' invincibility, only for them never to return from their missions.


    Could this be a simr situation?


    Thinking this, Sima Ce waved his hand, and a timeless pine tree rose from the desert behind him.


    The barren desert suddenly turned green. The sky filled with azure clouds, and the ground became a lush grasnd, dotted with tall trees. In an instant, it transformed into a magnificent scene.


    The celestial''s "world" unfolded once more, revealing Sima Ce''s advantage. His initial caution turned into arrogance again.


    In the presence of a celestial, could these people cause any trouble? Even under the small world''s suppression, Sima Ce retained the power of a twelfth-level Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivator, along with his "world" and numerous celestial techniques.


    "Draw your weapons. I will thoroughly crush you. Enjoy it while you can!" Sima Ce boasted.


    The group exchanged nces.


    People from the Grand World would never understand the peculiar nature of this small world. Despite suffering significant mental trauma, Sima Ce still looked down on everyone, as if he were the supreme being in this realm.


    "Let''s go inside," Tian Shenzi said to Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er.


    Turning away, Tian Shenzi began to walk towards the pce,pletely ignoring Sima Ce as if he were nothing more than air.


    "Scoundrel!" Sima Ce roared at Tian Shenzi.


    But before Sima Ce could act, Di Xuansha stepped in front of him.


    "Again, it''s you? Bring out your weapon. I''ve heard that the weapons in this small world are quite powerful. Show me, and I''ll teach you what a celestial weapon is!" Sima Ce sneered at Di Xuansha.


    "To deal with you, my bare hands will suffice," Di Xuansha replied calmly.


    "What did you say?" Sima Ce''s eyes narrowed in rage.


    "I said I will tear you apart with my bare hands," Di Xuansha responded coldly.


    "Ah!"


    At that moment, a loud gulping sound came from the direction of the ancient pine tree. Instantly, the lush green scenery vanished, and the world returned to a barren desert. The azure clouds disappeared, and the trees and grass turned back into sand.


    "Ah!" Sima Ce clutched his head in pain, his face twisted in agony. Blood spurted from his mouth as he turned to see the source of his torment.


    A massive beast with eight enormous tails and a grotesque, tree-like face was devouring the ancient pine tree. It had severed Sima Ce''s connection to it.


    Sima Ce''s eyes turned red with fury. He finally understood how the gluttonous beast had died��it had encountered this voracious creature that even consumed divine consciousness.


    "I''ll kill you!" Sima Ce roared, summoning a ck hole with his hand.


    The engorged Eight-Tailed Beast nced at Sima Ce, then vanished in a sh, retreating into Zhong Shan''s body, merging seamlessly with his consciousness.


    The sudden turn of events marked yet another misfortune in Sima Ce''s tragic journey through this small world. Ever since his arrival, nothing had gone right for him.


    The Eight-Tailed Beast couldn''t handle Sima Ce directly, but against a tree, a lifeless object, it had no difficulty at all. It devoured the treepletely, leaving Sima Ce fuming.


    Zhong Shan, seizing the moment, pulled the still-dazed Tian Ling''er along as they followed Tian Shenzi into the pce.


    "Boom!" The pce doors shut with a resounding thud, leaving the outside world in stunned silence.


    Di Xuansha had seen the terrifying power of the Eight-Tailed Beast before, but for the others, this was their first encounter with its overwhelming might. They swallowed nervously.


    Yin Luori, having witnessed Zhong Shan''s formidable power in the underworld, realized that this version of Zhong Shan was equally full of secrets. This man was indeed mysterious.


    Mud Buddha, familiar with the Eight-Tailed Beast, felt a deep respect for Zhong Shan''s ability tomand such a creature. Zhong Shan''s power seemed to grow beyond their understanding.


    Tian Lao, momentarily stunned, recalled the Zhong Shan of over two hundred years ago, who was only at the Golden Core stage. How could he have grown so much?


    Xuan Yuan, watching Zhong Shan''s retreating figure, remained silent, his brows furrowed, a look of determination in his eyes.


    The sudden disappearance of the Eight-Tailed Beast hit Sima Ce the hardest. He was left bewildered and enraged by the bizarre turn of events.


    "What just happened? This is too strange! How did I end up in this situation?" Sima Ce muttered to himself.


    Di Xuansha didn''t wait for Sima Ce to recover. True to his word, he moved swiftly towards Sima Ce, intent on tearing him apart.


    The small world had determined Sima Ce''s tragic fate. A dayter, in a grand pce within the Grand World, outside of Zhong Shan''s small world, a square jade tablet rested on a jade table. The tablet bore the name ''Sima Ce.''


    "Boom!" The jade tablet shattered.


    A group of people quickly gathered in the pce.


    "Sima Ce is dead?" one of them frowned.


    "Hmph, this is the person you rmended to the Holy King? How long has he been in the small world?"


    "I''ve always said he couldn''t rece the 108th disciple of the Heavenly Emperor. He wasn''t qualified! A celestial, apanied by ten Earth Immortals and even a gluttonous beast, killed by people from a small world? This is beyond disgraceful!"


    "Sima Ce was arrogant and foolish, aplete idiot. How long has it been? And he''s already dead?"


    "What a pity. The task the Holy King entrusted has been utterly botched. He was your brother, and you rmended him. Think about how you''ll exin this to the Holy King!"


    "I will handle it," the man with the frown replied.


    "Handle it? With increasing numbers and strength of surrounding forces, an external war might break out even before the small world opens. We are all tied up. The Holy King trusted your rmendation, and you suggested a fool? Do you know how much it cost to send those eleven people into the small world? Do you think we can send more now, with all the strong opponents outside?"


    "Enough! I''ll bear the responsibility for the poor rmendation. My brother is dead. Do you think it''s enjoyable to mock me? Hmph!" the man snorted coldly.


    Back in the small world, Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er followed Tian Shenzi into the grand hall, and the doors shut behind them with a thunderous boom.


    As they entered, Zhong Shan took advantage of the chaos to steal Sima Ce''s core consciousness. Sima Ce, though a celestial, was not feared by Di Xuansha, giving Zhong Shan the confidence to leave him to Di Xuansha.


    The ancient pine tree had been a significant boon. The Eight-Tailed Beast enjoyed digesting it and had also reserved a portion of energy for Zhong Shan. However, now was not the right time for absorption, so it was merely stored. Zhong Shan''s cultivation level remained unchanged.


    Inside the hall, it was pitch ck, as if leading deep into Heaven''s Peak.


    "Zhong Shan, why is it so dark in here?" Tian Ling''er held Zhong Shan''s hand, a bit worried.


    "Don''t worry, I''m here," Zhong Shan reassured her gently.


    "Mm," Tian Ling''er nodded,forted.


    In the grand hall, the darkness was almost tangible. Tian Shenzi led the way, and the atmosphere was thick with an ancient, oppressive aura. They walked deeper into the hall, feeling the weight of history and power in every step.


    "Follow me closely," Tian Shenzi''s voice echoed in the darkness, authoritative and calm.


    As they proceeded, the surroundings began to subtly change. Faint glimmers of light started to appear on the walls, revealing intricate carvings and symbols that seemed to pulse with life.


    "This ce... it''s incredible," Zhong Shan whispered, more to himself than anyone else.


    "This is the heart of Heaven''s Peak, where the Tian family''s most guarded secrets and legacies are kept," Tian Shenzi exined.


    They finally reached the innermost chamber, a vast room illuminated by an ethereal glow. In the center stood an ancient altar, surrounded by floating orbs of light.


    "Tian Ling''er, as the current head of the Tian family, you must receive the inheritance," Tian Shenzi said, motioning for her to step forward.


    Tian Ling''er, though still somewhat nervous, took a deep breath and approached the altar. As she did, the floating orbs of light began to converge around her, forming a brilliant, radiant halo.


    "This is the legacy of our ancestors," Tian Shenzi continued. "It is now your duty to carry it forward."


    Tian Ling''er nodded solemnly, feeling the weight of her responsibility. The light enveloped her, and for a moment, it seemed as if time stood still.


    Zhong Shan watched intently, knowing that this moment was pivotal for Tian Ling''er and the future of the Tian family. He remained vignt, ready to support her in any way needed.


    As the ceremony proceeded, Tian Shenzi turned to Zhong Shan. "You, too, have a role to y in this. The strength and unity of our family depend on all its members."


    Zhong Shan nodded, understanding the significance of his involvement. Together, they stood as protectors and bearers of a great legacy, facing whatever challengesy ahead with resolve and determination.

 Chapter 721: The Secrets of the Tian Family

    <h4>Chapter 721: The Secrets of the Tian Family</h4>


    The grand hall seemed to be an integral part of Heaven''s Peak, extending deep into the mountain itself. Following a long corridor, they arrived at a massive copper door.


    "You two stay outside. The family head wille in with me," Tian Shenzi said indifferently.


    "No, I won''t go in with you!" Tian Ling''er immediately clung to Zhong Shan''s arm.


    The dark passageway had already frightened Tian Ling''er, and she wasn''t about to go further with this ''big bad wolf.''


    Zhong Shan shrugged, obviously not willing to let Tian Ling''er go alone either.


    Tian Shenzi looked at the two, taking a deep breath. "Fine, Zhong Shan cane too, but the Vermilion Bird cannot enter."


    With that, Tian Shenzi pointed at Tian Ling''er.


    "Chirp!" The Vermilion Bird, Xiao Hong, was forced out of Tian Ling''er''s body by Tian Shenzi''s point.


    "Chirp, chirp, chirp!"


    The Vermilion Bird screeched angrily at Tian Shenzi.


    "Xiao Hong, wait for me here," Tian Ling''er soothed.


    Tian Shenzi made a concession by allowing Zhong Shan to enter. Even as naive as she was, Tian Ling''er wouldn''t push further.


    "Chirp, chirp, chirp..."


    The Vermilion Bird chirped indignantly but had no choice but to ept the situation, ring at Tian Shenzi with resentment.


    "Boom!"


    The copper door opened with a thunderous sound, and a flood of golden light poured out from within, so intense that everyone had to squint against the blinding brightness.


    Fortune light? Zhong Shan was amazed at the light emanating from behind the door.


    Tian Shenzi stepped inside, and Zhong Shan followed, holding Tian Ling''er''s hand.


    "Boom!"


    The copper door shut behind them, leaving the Vermilion Bird outside.


    Inside, as Zhong Shan''s eyes adjusted to the light, he finally took in the surroundings.


    It was a cylindrical space, with the only door they entered through and another copper door on the opposite side. The cylindrical walls had eighteen recessed niches, with another copper door at the back.


    Zhong Shan didn''t know whaty behind the other copper door, but the sight in the eighteen niches was already enough to shock him.


    Seventeen of the niches held ck-robed figures, both men and women, each resembling a living corpse. They breathed but had no signs of life. Each of these living corpses had a gem-like small sun on their foreheads, identical to Tian Shenzi''s.


    Were these all ancient monsters who had integrated ''qi'' into their bodies?


    Seeing the empty niche, Zhong Shan nced at Tian Shenzi. Was Tian Shenzi originally seated in that empty niche?


    Eighteen in total. Was this the true depth of the Tian family''s heritage? This was a terrifyingly powerful family!


    Above, endless merit and fortune converged, continuously flowing into the remaining seventeen living corpses, as if solely for their absorption.


    Below was a white stone tform, covered in intricate engravings, with a recessed slot shaped like the Tian Order. The Tian Order could be ced into it?


    Zhong Shan was stunned by the scene, while Tian Ling''er curiously looked at the living corpses seated in the niches.


    "These are our ancestors, like myself, members of the Tian family," Tian Shenzi said calmly.


    Zhong Shan''s eyelids twitched, taken aback by the terrifying power of the Tian family.


    "Oh!" Tian Ling''er nodded.


    "Let me tell you more about our Tian family, so you can understand," Tian Shenzi said.


    "Mm!"


    "The Tian family is divided into two branches," Tian Shenzi began.


    "I know, the Tian family of the underworld and the Tian family of the mortal world," Tian Ling''er interrupted.


    "The Tian family of the underworld?" Tian Shenzi showed a hint of disdain. "No, the underworld Tian family was once part of the Tian family, but ten thousand years ago, they severed ties. Their bloodline is no longer that of the Tian family, their souls are no longer innate souls, and their destinies are no longer those of the Tian family. They are not considered members of the Tian family."


    "Oh?"


    "Our Tian family is divided into two branches: the direct line and the coteral line. You are thest descendant of the direct line, so only you are qualified to be the family head," Tian Shenzi exined.


    "What about the coteral line?"


    "The coteral line includes people like Tian Lao. He belongs to the loyal coteral line. In the Grand World, there is also a coteral line Tian family. In the past, as the coteral line Tian family grew stronger, our direct line had to retreat into this small world," Tian Shenzi sighed.


    "What? We were forced into this small world by the bad coteral line?" Tian Ling''er eximed in surprise.


    "Yes, the coteral line Tian family doesn''t know we''re here. If they find out, they will definitely send people to this small world to seize the ''Tian Order'' from you," Tian Shenzi said.


    Hearing this, Tian Ling''er quickly tightened her grip on the Tian Order.


    "Then, what should we do?" Tian Ling''er asked, worried.


    "The coteral line Tian family is very strong. In the past, our direct line couldn''t confront them directly. That''s why the ancestors here took a different path, forcibly integrating ''qi'' into their bodies. If we seed, we won''t fear the coteral line. Unfortunately, by taking this different path, we''ve deviated from our ancestor''s way," Tian Shenzi sighed.


    "Ancestor?"


    "The one who created the Tian Order you hold," Tian Shenzi said with a hint of reverence in his eyes.


    "Our ancestor? What happened to him?" Tian Ling''er asked.


    "He died. If he hadn''t, our direct line wouldn''t have been forced into this small world. He was a great person. Although he perished, he condensed his Dao into the Tian Order, leaving it for future generations. Only direct descendants can trulyprehend it," Tian Shenzi exined.


    "This?" Tian Ling''er looked at the Tian Order in surprise.


    Tian Shenzi extended his hand, and Tian Ling''er reluctantly, but at Zhong Shan''s urging, handed over the Tian Order.


    Holding the Tian Order, Tian Shenzi caressed it thoughtfully.


    "The Tian Order is known only to the direct and coteral line heads. Even the so-called Tian family in the underworld knows its importance but not its true significance," Tian Shenzi said.


    He gently ced the Tian Order into the recessed slot on the jade tform. It fit perfectly.


    Suddenly, many of the hollow spaces on the jade tform were filled with a strange red energy, looking extremely brilliant.


    On either side of the jade tform were two small gold pits, each the size of a fingertip.


    "This is the inheritance tform. ce your index finger in the one in front of you," Tian Shenzi instructed.


    "This one?" Tian Ling''er pointed to the small gold pit in front of her.


    "Yes," Tian Shenzi confirmed.


    Tian Ling''er, after a brief hesitation, pressed her index finger into the gold pit. Immediately, a stream of golden light surged up, enveloping her finger and gradually spreading up her arm, filling her with a warm, powerful sensation.


    "The Tian Order contains the umted wisdom and power of our ancestors," Tian Shenzi exined. "By cing your finger here, you will receive the knowledge and strength of our lineage."


    As the light continued to flow into her, Tian Ling''er''s eyes widened with wonder. She could feel a connection forming, linking her to the long history of her family, and a sense of profound responsibility settled over her.


    Zhong Shan watched with a mixture of awe and pride. He knew this moment was crucial for Tian Ling''er and the future of the Tian family.


    Tian Shenzi stood by, observing the process with a solemn expression. "The knowledge you are receiving is vast and profound. It will take time to fully understand and integrate. Be patient and diligent."


    "Yes, Ancestor," Tian Ling''er replied, her voice filled with determination.


    As the transfer continued, Zhong Shan couldn''t help but feel a deep respect for the legacy of the Tian family. This was more than just power; it was a sacred trust, amitment to uphold and protect a heritage that spanned millennia.


    Tian Ling''er curiously extended her right index finger and ced it into the golden pit. Immediately, she closed her eyes infort, enjoying the sensation.


    "I will now pass on the ''Family Head''s Inheritance'' to you," Tian Shenzi said.


    He conjured a golden orb in his palm, which slowly shrank until it rested on his fingertip. He then directed his finger towards the other golden pit, releasing a visible beam of golden light that traveled through the red grooves and into Tian Ling''er''s finger.


    "Whoosh!"


    The golden light entered Tian Ling''er''s body and disappeared instantly. Zhong Shan noticed that after transmitting the ''Family Head''s Inheritance,'' Tian Shenzi seemed much older.


    As the golden light entered Tian Ling''er''s body, a radiant glow enveloped her, causing her clothes to flutter as if blown by a gentle breeze.


    Seeing Tian Ling''er surrounded by the glowing light, Tian Shenzi''s eyes narrowed with surprise.


    The process took an entire hour.


    Suddenly, the ''Tian Order'' on the inheritance tform vanished.


    Tian Shenzi''s eyes widened in delight. "Our ancestor''s blessing, finally! Finally, a descendant with the same constitution and destiny as our ancestor."


    The golden light around Tian Ling''er dissipated, and she opened her eyes, feeling refreshed. Noticing the ''Tian Order'' was gone, she immediately eximed, "Where''s my ''Tian Order''?"


    Tian Shenzi''s joy faltered for a moment. Seeing her usatory look, he smiled wryly. "The ''Tian Order'' has entered your body. You will discover its uses over time."


    "Really?" Tian Ling''er looked skeptically at Tian Shenzi, then at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nodded, confirming the truth.


    Reluctantly, Tian Ling''er epted the fact. "Is my body an inn? First, Xiao Hong, and now the ''Tian Order''?"


    "You''ve aged a lot," Tian Ling''er suddenly noted.


    Tian Shenzi nodded. "I awoke early due to the ''Family Head''s Inheritance.'' Without it, I would be like the other living ancestors here, continuing to merge with the ''qi.''"


    "Are you going to ''sleep'' again?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning slightly.


    "Yes, I must sleep again. The family head is innocent and carefree, but you are a man of great ambition. You must understand the importance of our family. During our sleep, you are responsible for our protection," Tian Shenzi said seriously to Zhong Shan.


    "Rest assured, I will protect you," Zhong Shan promised.


    "Good."


    "I will move Heaven''s Peak to my capital city. When will you wake again?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "The next awakening will be at least three thousand years from now," Tian Shenzi replied.


    "Three thousand years?" Zhong Shan frowned. "That''s a long time."


    "Maybe even longer," Tian Shenzi said solemnly.


    Zhong Shan sighed and nodded. "Alright."


    Slowly, Tian Shenzi staggered to the empty niche and sat down like the other seventeen Tian family ancestors.


    "Onest reminder," Tian Shenzi said weakly.


    "Speak," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Do not provoke Ying," Tian Shenzi warned.


    "I understand," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "The ''Still Wave Pool'' in the underworld belongs to our direct line of the Tian family," Tian Shenzi added.


    "Got it," Zhong Shan acknowledged.


    "And finally, beware of the coteral Tian family in the Grand World," Tian Shenzi concluded.


    With that, Tian Shenzi closed his eyes.


    "Boom!"


    The next moment, a powerful force pushed Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er out of the hall. The copper door opened, and the Vermilion Bird was also pushed out. They were expelled from the pce and out of Heaven''s Peak.


    "Rumble!"


    The pce at the mountainside retracted, and the mountain restored itself as if nothing had happened.


    Bowing deeply to Heaven''s Peak, Zhong Shan and Tian Ling''er expressed their respect.


    "Feng Shui branch Tian Lao, greets the family head!" Tian Lao immediately bowed respectfully to Tian Ling''er.

 Chapter 722: Dividing the World

    <h4>Chapter 722: Dividing the World</h4>


    Outside Heaven''s Peak, Di Xuansha had already dealt with Sima Ce. A celestial? No big deal! The realm is just one aspect of strength. Some fierce individuals, regardless of the circumstances, are always formidable. Their potential is limitless, and their power defiesmon sense. Di Xuansha was undoubtedly one of these fierce individuals. In the past, he had just reached the Heavenly Extreme Realm and already managed to drive away Ao Lie. Today, he had torn apart Sima Ce with his eleventh-level Heavenly Extreme Realm strength, a natural result.


    As Tian Lao paid his respects to Tian Ling''er, the others looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Tian Lao, do you swear eternal loyalty to the family head?" Zhong Shan asked on Tian Ling''er''s behalf.


    "Yes!"


    "Tian Ling''er is my wife and the Empress of the Da Ling Empire. Tian Lao, will you join Da Ling?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    Tian Lao looked at Zhong Shan, then at Tian Ling''er.


    "Would you be willing?" Tian Ling''er asked tentatively.


    Tian Ling''er had not yet adapted to her role as the family head. Another person would havemanded Tian Lao to join Da Ling. But because of her tentative question, Tian Lao saw the family head''s amiable nature. Thinking of Tian Shenzi, Tian Lao responded with utmost firmness, "Yes, I am willing to join Da Ling!"


    "Very well, from this day forth, I officially appoint Tian Lao as the Deputy Chief of the Astronomical Bureau of Da Ling!" Zhong Shan decreed.


    Mud Buddha was the Chief of the Astronomical Bureau, a long-time follower of Zhong Shan. Naturally, he remained the chief, with Tian Lao serving under him.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Tian Lao nodded.


    "Your first task is to transport Heaven''s Peak to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court," Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Tian Lao responded.


    After assigning tasks to Tian Lao, Zhong Shan turned to the others.


    Except for Di Xuansha and Xuan Yuan, everyone bowed slightly to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan looked at Di Xuansha, who nodded, indicating that Sima Ce was dead and his soul had dissipated. Zhong Shan nodded in satisfaction.


    Xuan Yuan looked at Zhong Shan and spoke, "Zhong Shan!"


    "Hmm?"


    "I wish to take my leave," Xuan Yuan said.


    "Leave? The Creation Divine Pce remains wherever you are. Are you not content in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "No, I am grateful for your hospitality during this time. I am not leaving the Lingxiao Heavenly Court but preparing to leave this small world," Xuan Yuan said earnestly.


    "Leave this small world?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    The others also looked at Xuan Yuan, thinking of the mysteries of the Creation Divine Pce. If Xuan Yuan could traverse between the realms of Yin and Yang with a secret technique, he might also have a way to leave this realm.


    "Yes, my constitution is special and can grow more in the Grand World," Xuan Yuan exined.


    "Are you sure?" Zhong Shan asked, looking deeply at Xuan Yuan.


    Xuan Yuan nodded firmly, "I am certain."


    Seeing Xuan Yuan''s resolve, Zhong Shan sighed lightly, "Very well, take care."


    "We will meet again in the Grand World," Xuan Yuan said.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    After saying his goodbyes, Xuan Yuan disappeared from sight.


    Watching Xuan Yuan leave, Zhong Shan sighed again, collected his thoughts, and turned to the others.


    In the distance, Zhao Suoxiang flew over.


    "Your Majesty, Heaven''s Peak has been secured and is ready for transport," Zhao Suoxiang reported.


    "Good," Zhong Shan replied. "We will return to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court and prepare for what lies ahead. The world is changing, and we must be ready to face all challenges."


    The group, having gathered their resolve, prepared to leave. With Tian Lao now on their side, the strength of Da Ling was significantly bolstered. The future held many uncertainties, but with loyal and capable allies, Zhong Shan was confident in navigating the turbulent times ahead.


    "Zhao Suoxiang!" Zhong Shan called out seriously.


    "I am here!" Zhao Suoxiang responded immediately.


    "Launch a full-scale attack on the Dayong Dynasty!"


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    "You all, follow Zhao Suoxiang and swiftly capture the territories of the Dayong Dynasty!" Zhong Shan ordered Yin Luori and Mud Buddha.


    "Yes!" they responded in unison.


    The army of the Da Ling Empireunched aprehensive assault on the Dayong Dynasty.


    In a secluded mountain valley, Di Xuansha and Tian Ling''er stood guard, protecting the valley where Zhong Shan was in seclusion. The Eight-Tailed Beast had consumed the ancient pine tree, converting part of its energy into what Zhong Shan needed most. His cultivation level was rapidly increasing.


    Outside, dark clouds gathered, and lightning shed. With Di Xuansha protecting her, Tian Ling''er was absolutely safe.


    "Roar!"


    The Eight-Tailed Beast let out another roar, emerging from Zhong Shan''s body. Its eight massive tails caused intense spatial disturbances, and at the tips, they shattered the void, creating ck holes.


    Zhong Shan had reached the pinnacle of the Emperor Extreme Realm, the tenth level! The surrounding mountains crumbled into dust, and the lightning shattered all resistant minerals.


    Suddenly, the lightning ceased, and the Eight-Tailed Beast began to shrink, quickly returning to Zhong Shan''s body. Everything calmed down as Di Xuansha and Tian Ling''er approached.


    "Another breakthrough?" Di Xuansha asked, amazed.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Zhong Shan!" Tian Ling''er called out suddenly.


    "Huh?"


    "Can I...?" Tian Ling''er seemed a bit embarrassed.


    "Can you what?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Can I hold that cute little thing?" Tian Ling''er asked with hopeful eyes.


    "Cute little thing? What cute little thing?" Zhong Shan was confused.


    "The one just now, with eight fluffy tails. It''s so cute, I want to hold it!" Tian Ling''er said with anticipation.


    Zhong Shan was speechless.


    "Please, just for a little while," Tian Ling''er pleaded, holding onto Zhong Shan''s arm and acting coquettishly.


    "..."


    "Just for a little while, okay?" Tian Ling''er continued, hugging Zhong Shan''s arm.


    "..."


    The battle at Heaven''s Peak spread across thend. The massive military sh between the Dayong Dynasty and the Da Ling Empire ended in aplete defeat for the Dayong Dynasty, to the shock of the entire world.


    The former Supreme of the Tiger n, Yin Luori, suddenly reappeared, leading the Tiger n in rebellion against Dayong.


    Dayong''s Feng Shui master also rebelled, killing Grand Tutor Huantu Long.


    The shocking news hit the officials of Dayong hard. Why did Tian Lao rebel? The reason soon spread: Tian Lao''s rebellion was due to the desecration of his ancestral tomb. Hearing this, many officials felt disheartened.


    Tian Lao had been crucial since the time of Gu Shentong, having made great contributions to Daluo and then to Dayong. For Gu Zhengyi to disregard the emperor''s promises for an outsider?


    The betrayal of such a key figure like Tian Lao, who had been loyal and dedicated, was a significant blow. The ramifications of this upheaval were far-reaching, casting a shadow over the Dayong Dynasty''s stability.


    In the capital of the Dayong Dynasty, inside Gu Zhengyi''s study.


    "Your Majesty, the army led by King Zhan Tian, along with two Earth Immortals, has beenpletely annihted. The Great Qin army is advancing like a hot knife through butter!"


    "Your Majesty, Sima Ce was torn apart by Di Xuansha!"


    "Your Majesty, Tian Lao has joined the Da Ling Empire!"


    "Your Majesty, the Tiger n has betrayed us!"


    "Your Majesty, the Da Ling army is beingmanded by Shui Wuhen and Yi Yan!"


    "Your Majesty, Shen Qitian is missing!"


    "Your Majesty, the lords of eight cities have surrendered to the enemy!"


    "Your Majesty, our army''s morale is too low; we are retreating continuously!"


    ...One piece of bad news after another was reported.


    Gu Zhengyi waved his hand, dismissing everyone, leaving only Prince Taizong in the hall.


    Gu Zhengyi closed his eyes and rubbed his temples, while Prince Taizong sighed.


    "Your Majesty, this time you really made a mistake. You intended to use Sima Ce, but he was too arrogant. Not only did you fail to use him, but you also offended Tian Lao. Our decline this time is due to mishandling Tian Lao. One wrong step leads to another. Do you remember the words of the first sage? You must not be eager for quick sess. Even the first sage, Gu Shentong, never sought to unify the world, despite being the number one in Shenzhou. The waters of this world are too deep, and yet you... s!" Prince Taizong sighed deeply.


    Gu Zhengyi stood up, his figure disappearing from the study, leaving Prince Taizong behind, sighing again.


    In the eastern part of Shenzhou, at Gu Shentong''s grave, Gu Zhengyi suddenly arrived.


    "Long live the Emperor!" The guards immediately bowed in respect.


    Gu Zhengyi waved his hand, and everyone withdrew.


    Staring at Gu Shentong''s tombstone, Gu Zhengyi remained silent for a long time.


    "Father, hahahaha, Father!" Gu Zhengyi''s emotions seemed unstable.


    "Everyone says I resemble you, that I am like you, but I don''t want to be like you. I am me, I am Gu Zhengyi, not Gu Shentong. Under your mighty rule, I always suppressed myself, but I seeded. I achieved the Dayong realm. My Dayong will be the strongest, unparalleled by anyone!" Gu Zhengyi roared.


    "Why are you always right, and I am always wrong? I want to prove to you that my way is correct!"


    "But why? Why not give me a chance? Why? Yin Luori betrayed, the Tiger n betrayed, Tian Lao betrayed, why is Great Qin so strong? Why are the Celestial and the ten Earth Immortals so weak? Why don''t I get a chance?"


    Gu Zhengyi raved madly.


    The bitterness in Gu Zhengyi''s heart ran deep, very deep. Why did it turn out this way? Such a perfect n, now full of ws. Why? Why was Gu Shentong always right, and he was wrong?


    Gu Zhengyi''s eyes were bloodshot, filled with unwillingness and resentment.


    "This time I lost. Just watch, someday I will make the whole world acknowledge me, to know I am Gu Zhengyi, not just the one most like Gu Shentong. I will do it!" Gu Zhengyi stared at the tombstone.


    Ten yearster.


    The Dayong Dynastypletely copsed, divided between the Da Ling Empire and the Great Qin Empire. As the armies besieged the capital of Dayong, Emperor Gu Zhengyi, Prince Taizong, and several important members disappeared.


    The world''s bnce shifted again, with Da Ling and Great Qin dividing Dayong''snds. Infinite fortune gathered into the clouds of these two empires, creating an unprecedented amount of fortune, surpassing even that of ancient celestial dynasties.


    Thus, Da Ling, Great Qin, and Taishui divided the world. Da Ling and Taishui each upied three-tenths of thend, while Great Qin controlled four-tenths.

 Chapter 723: Gu Shentong鈥檚 Scheme

    <h4>Chapter 723: Gu Shentong''s Scheme</h4>


    The world was divided into three: Da Ling, Taishui, and Great Qin, each taking their respective shares. There were also scattered smaller empires and kingdoms. These smaller realms were sandwiched between the three great empires, serving as buffers to ease tensions.


    Everyone knew these small realms had little future; they were simply awaiting their eventual absorption by one of the three great empires. The three empires didn''t move against them immediately not because they feared resistance, but as a matter of political convenience.


    Da Ling, Great Qin, and Taishui formed a tripartite power structure. The time for an all-out conflict had not yete, which allowed these small realms to continue existing for now.


    With the fall of the Dayong Dynasty, the world found a new bnce, and Shenzhou entered another period of peace.


    Observing the global situation, Great Qin was the strongest, followed by Taishui, with Da Ling being the weakest. However, everyone knew Da Ling Empire had the greatest potential. Despite being merely an empire, it had surpassed the ancient celestial dynasties. If it were to rise further, it would undoubtedly create an unprecedented spectacle.


    Countless talents continued to flock to the three great empires.


    In the past, celestial dynasties were confined to a single corner of the world, but now the territories of these empires were vastly expanded. It was clear to anyone with insight that the rulers of these three empires were rare ambitious figures, all aiming to unify the world.


    Who would eventually dominate the world? After this calm period, a storm of epic battles was inevitable.


    Thirty years after the tripartite division of the world.


    In Da Ling Empire, the Longevity Hall.


    Zhong Shan sat on his throne, listening to the reports of his civil and military officials.


    "Your Majesty, Confucian academies are bing increasingly numerous. We have identified 314 within our empire," Shui Jing reported.


    "Confucianism is a great path, but unfortunately..." Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Unfortunately what?" Shui Jing asked.


    "Unfortunately, it cannot be used by us. Monitor all 314 academies. Any who cause trouble, execute them!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Shui Jing nodded immediately.


    "Your Majesty, General Zhao Suoxiang requests an audience!" announced a eunuch outside.


    "Oh? Summon him!"


    "Summon themander of the eighth legion, Zhao Suoxiang, for an audience!"


    Soon, Zhao Suoxiang entered the hall, and all the officials turned their attention to him.


    "Your servant greets Your Majesty!" Zhao Suoxiang said respectfully.


    "How did the task go?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I have obtained the ''Great Luo Zhou Tian Star Array'' diagram, but I have received new information," Zhao Suoxiang replied with a frown.


    "Oh?"


    "Since the ''Great Luo Zhou Tian Star Array'' diagram of Gu Shentong surfaced a year and a half ago, countless strong individuals have vied for it. I sessfully acquired the diagram as youmanded, but then I heard of another ''Great Luo Zhou Tian Star Array'' diagram appearing. It seems there are about a hundred simr diagrams appearing across Shenzhou. I went to retrieve another one and found it to be identical to the first," Zhao Suoxiang exined with a frown.


    "Identical?" Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. The diagrams are exactly the same, which is highly unusual. It''s as if someone is deliberately scattering these diagrams to create chaos," Zhao Suoxiang borated.


    "Hmm, this must be part of Gu Shentong''s scheme," Zhong Shan mused.


    "The appearance of multiple identical diagrams could be a way to confuse and mislead those who seek to gain power from the ''Great Luo Zhou Tian Star Array,''" suggested Shui Jing.


    "Indeed, it seems Gu Shentong had nned for this long ago. We must tread carefully. Ensure that our forces are prepared for any potential traps or deceptions," Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Zhao Suoxiang and Shui Jing responded in unison.


    Zhong Shan leaned back on his throne, deep in thought. The re-emergence of Gu Shentong''s legacy posed both a challenge and an opportunity. Navigating thisplex situation would require cunning and vignce.


    As the officials continued their reports and discussions, Zhong Shan''s mind was already devising strategies to counter any threats and capitalize on the potential benefits of these mysterious diagrams. The road ahead was fraught with uncertainty, but Zhong Shan was determined to lead Da Ling Empire to greatness.


    "Yes, Your Majesty, I believe this might be a deliberate act with some hidden plot involved. Please make a decision," Zhao Suoxiang said, bowing.


    "Where are the diagrams?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Zhao Suoxiang retrieved two scrolls and gently unfurled one. Instantly, a massive projection erupted from the scroll, showing an endless array of stars rotating in an intricate pattern. It was so mesmerizing that many of the ministers seemed to be lost in it.


    Zhong Shan quickly gathered his focus and snapped out of the trance, while some ministers were still entranced by the profound patterns.


    Seeing Zhong Shan alert, Zhao Suoxiang promptly rolled up the scroll, bringing the ministers back to their senses.


    "What a profound star map, it doesn''t seem to be fake," Shui Jing said, frowning.


    "Leave one for me and send the other to Yi Tianjian, to Nangong Sheng. Let him decipher it," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," Zhao Suoxiang responded immediately.


    After the court session, Zhong Shan took one of the diagrams and secluded himself to study it.


    In a secluded hall, Zhong Shan sat alone on a meditation mat, the ''Great Luo Zhou Tian Star Array'' diagram spread out before him. The projection revealed endless stars orbiting in mysterious trajectories, forming a natural grand array.


    Gu Shentong was indeed a genius to haveprehended this array.


    Having a single diagram emerge in Shenzhou was already rare, so why did a hundred appear all of a sudden? There must be a plot behind these hundred diagrams, but what could it be?


    Zhong Shan couldn''t figure it out immediately, but he hoped to uncover the plot by studying the diagram.


    As he delved deeper into the diagram, Zhong Shan became increasingly astonished. Such a grand array epassing all the stars in the sky was unimaginable. This array indeed spanned the entire starry sky, and only someone like Gu Shentong could have depicted it so meticulously.


    Wait!


    Zhong Shan suddenly felt a surge of dread, his hair standing on end.


    In an instant, Zhong Shan realized the nature of the plot and why the diagrams had emerged.


    This was Gu Shentong''s scheme, a plot aimed at himself. Zhong Shan was filled with terror. Gu Shentong, the cunning Gu Shentong, had nned this before his death.


    Zhong Shan tried to withdraw his mind, but it seemed trapped in the ''Great Luo Zhou Tian Star Array.''


    His mind waspletely immersed, and then he sensed another presence��a powerful, god-like will.


    Gu Shentong, it was Gu Shentong!


    Zhong Shan recognized the aura instantly. It was the lingering will of Gu Shentong. Was it inside his body?


    Zhong Shan felt a chill run down his spine.


    Gu Shentong''s will expanded and intensified.


    Externally, the ''Great Luo Zhou Tian Star Array'' held Zhong Shan''s mind, while internally, Gu Shentong''s will kept pushing against Zhong Shan''s consciousness, rendering him immobile.


    Zhong Shan could feel everything on his body, the cold sweat on his forehead, his back drenched, but he couldn''t control his body. Not a single movement.


    That will was from Nu Qinghui, imnted into Zhong Shan''s body long ago. Yes, it was from that time, lying dormant until today.


    As Zhong Shan struggled internally, he realized he had to fight this invasion. The stakes were too high, and surrendering to Gu Shentong''s will was not an option. He had to find a way to reim control of his body and mind, to outwit the cunning scheme that had been set in motion years before.


    Gu Shentong''s scheme was intentional, meticulously timed, and aimed at releasing the array diagrams across the world. A hundred diagrams, meant for the top echelons of Shenzhou, would ensure that one of the elite would obtain a diagram, making it easier for him to possess them. Such far-reaching calctions filled Zhong Shan with dread.


    Right now, he could only feel his body but had no control over it. He forced himself to calm down and quickly assessed his condition. Zhong Shan realized that Gu Shentong''s will was not strong but used a secret technique to immobilize his "mind and will."


    What is he trying to do? This way, Gu Shentong can''t possess me.


    "Come out, Gu Shentong,e out!" Zhong Shan roared in his mind.


    "Is it really you, Zhong Shan?"


    Suddenly, a thought pierced Zhong Shan''s mind. It was Gu Shentong''s voice. They could nowmunicate through their thoughts.


    "Yes, it''s me. Are you Gu Shentong?"


    "I originally thought it would be Gu Zhengyi, but to find myself in you? What a pity. It seems my main body has failed."


    "Failure was inevitable because Gu Shentong left you as a backup n. To open the heavens, one must be resolute and leave no room for retreat. Leaving you was the final w in his n!" Zhong Shan said.


    Seeing that this will couldn''t forcibly possess him, Zhong Shan conversed while contemting how to expel it from his body.


    "I am Gu Shentong!" the will dered.


    "No, you''re not. Gu Shentong is dead!" Zhong Shan retorted.


    "No, I left this will behind, replicating all my memories and personality. The main body is dead, but I am Gu Shentong!"


    "You are not. You''re just a will containing Gu Shentong''s memories, like a memory crystal. Can a memory crystal im to be someone? Do you have the experiences of Gu Shentong''s journey to open the heavens stored within you?" Zhong Shan countered.


    "Haha, you''re indeed one of the people I had my eye on, Zhong Shan. You''re impressive. Unfortunately, you''re dealing with me. Trying to manipte me with words is futile," Gu Shentong''s will chuckled.


    Zhong Shan''s tactic had failed.


    "So, do you im to be Gu Shentong?" Zhong Shan pressed on.


    "Haha, this tactic won''t work on me. Does it matter whether I am Gu Shentong or not? I can be, or I can not be. I am myself. As long as I possess you, I will regain an independent personality. Possessing you is all that matters!" Gu Shentong''s will said confidently.


    "You can''t possess me. You won''t be able to. Within my body, you can''t even control my actions or perceive my senses," Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "That doesn''t matter now. As long as I canter. For now, all I need is to connect to the ''Great Luo Zhou Tian Star Array'' diagram and bind your will."


    "You think stalling for time will help you? Hahaha..." Zhong Shan sneered.


    "And what if it does?" Gu Shentong''s will responded indifferently.


    "Do you really n to possess me this way? It''s absolutely impossible."


    "When I instructed Nu Qinghui, I had already anticipated today. I had her choose from six people. Gu Zhengyi was the first, and you were the sixth. Unexpectedly, she chose you. I''ve studied all your information! I''ve calcted today''s scenario with utmost precision. You cannot escape," Gu Shentong''s will said calmly.


    Hearing Gu Shentong''s words, Zhong Shan felt a chill. This Gu Shentong was indeed a terrifying figure. Had he really foreseen today?


    The realization hit Zhong Shan hard. Gu Shentong''s intricate scheme spanned years, and his will now sought to take over Zhong Shan''s body. But Zhong Shan couldn''t afford to let that happen. He needed to find a way to reim control, expel the invasive will, and turn the tide against this sinister plot.

 Chapter 724: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Miraculous Turnaround

    <h4>Chapter 724: Zhong Shan''s Miraculous Turnaround</h4>


    In the mortal realm, within the Heavenly Court of Lingxiao,y the Great Zhen''s prison, specifically the first cell of Heaven.


    The first cell of Heaven held a particrly significant prisoner��Nu Qinghui, a Heavenly Extreme Realm powerhouse and the strongest among all prisoners. However, at this moment, Nu Qinghui''s cultivation had been sealed by Di Xuansha using a secret technique, rendering her no different from an ordinary human. Nu Qinghui, the most beautiful woman in the world, was so enchanting that a single nce from her could stir the deepest desires, even in those whose hearts were as firm as stone among the Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivators.


    Currently, she was imprisoned within the celestial prison.


    Despite Nu Qinghui''s cultivation beingpletely suppressed, Zhong Shan remained extremely cautious. The first cell of Heaven was under strict surveince, with no one allowed within a hundred zhang (approximately 330 meters) radius, to prevent anyone from falling under her spell. This restriction showcased the overwhelming power of her beauty.


    On this particr day, Nu Qinghui was seated cross-legged in the corner of her cell, as usual.


    Suddenly, her eyebrows twitched as she looked in a specific direction. Aplex expression shed in her eyes. Then, Nu Qinghui closed her eyes, and a faint purple mist began to emanate from her body.


    Under normal circumstances, with her cultivation sealed, Nu Qinghui shouldn''t be able to use any spells, making her as vulnerable as an ordinary person. Yet, at this moment, faint ripples of magical power were fluctuating around her body, though they remained within three inches of her form. Clearly, Nu Qinghui had her own secret techniques.


    Unfortunately, due to Zhong Shan''s orders, no jailers were allowed near the first cell of Heaven, so no one noticed this anomaly.


    Inside the secret chamber of Zhong Shan.


    "You even anticipated me?" Zhong Shan''s consciousness revealed a hint of astonishment.


    "The final moments are approaching. I wanted you to understand why. Six people. Without thoroughly investigating each one, how could I have entrusted this remnant of consciousness to Nu Qinghui?" The remnant of Gu Shentong''s consciousness said coldly.


    "Why did you include me?" Zhong Shan asked sternly.


    "Because you are like me!"


    "Like you?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "The only difference between you and Gu Zhengyi is that one is too mboyant and the other too reserved. In all other aspects, you are very much like me," Gu Shentong''s remnant said gravely.


    "Hahaha, just because I''m like you, you chose me?" Zhong Shan said furiously.


    "Exactly!"


    Zhong Shan was now very angry, but reason made him suppress his anger and converse calmly with Gu Shentong. At this moment, Zhong Shan couldn''t move, and there was no time to call for help.


    The most frustrating part was that both Ni Pusa and Tian Lao were in the mortal realm, and those outside had no idea he was in trouble. Only his shadow body knew, but it couldn''t convey the message to the mortal realm.


    Thus, he could only rely on himself now.


    Calmness. Only calmness could help him find a way to resolve this. Gu Shentong''s remnant? Indeed, anything not belonging to oneself within the body is always trouble.


    "Do you think, by maintaining this stalemate, who will be the first to crumble? Will you hold out for a month? Or a year? By then, my subordinates wille in, and there will be plenty to deal with you. You are merely a remnant consciousness," Zhong Shan threatened.


    "A month? Unnecessary. At most, two days, and I will have devoured you!" Gu Shentong said gravely.


    "Ridiculous. Do you think your current remnant can devour me? With just this remnant? It will be me devouring you, not the other way around," Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Devouring me?" Gu Shentong sighed lightly.


    "I have already overestimated you, yet you still surprise me. Your root consciousness is actually a living entity? Unprecedented! You have guts! Do you know, my previous thought was eight-tenths dedicated to severing your connection with your root consciousness? Otherwise, I would have devoured you by now!" Gu Shentong said resentfully.


    "Then let''s see who falters first!" "I won''t falter!" Gu Shentong chuckled. "If you don''t falter, how will you gain more strength to devour me? If you don''t falter, you''ll never be able to deal with me!" Zhong Shan said confidently. "Someone will help me," Gu Shentong replied. "Help you? Hahaha, ridiculous. Even though you''re holding me back within my own body, you can''t control it. You can''t even touch my senses. You''re isted from the world, unable to perceive anything from the outside! How will you notify anyone to help you?" Zhong Shan sneered. "I don''t need to perceive the outside world," Gu Shentong said confidently.


    Zhong Shan probed for a long time, extracting many pieces of information, though none of it was good news. It didn''t matter who would help Gu Shentong; what mattered was how to get through the current crisis.


    Zhong Shan fell into a deep silence for a while. Gu Shentong also stopped talking. "Could it be that someone will enter my body again with their consciousness?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath and asked. "No, Nu Qinghui must have told you before, right?" "What?" "As you grow, I grow. When you reach the Heavenly Extreme Realm, my consciousness will grow strong enough to devour you. At that time, I canpletely consume you, devouring everything about you!" Gu Shentong said. "Impossible. Me breakthrough? Hahaha, who can make me breakthrough? My root bone, no one can make me breakthrough. You should know why my root bone is special," Zhong Shanughed mockingly. "Your root bone? Hahaha, your root bone is indeed interesting. As long as, at the moment of great perfection, a woman with the Nine Cauldrons physique dual cultivates with you, you''ll break through. Am I right?" Gu Shentongughed.


    Hearing Gu Shentong''s words, Zhong Shan''s hair stood on end. How did Gu Shentong know this? "What do you mean?" Zhong Shan asked coldly.


    Just as Zhong Shan was questioning Gu Shentong, he suddenly felt someone outside grabbing him and undressing him. From the fragrance, he could tell it was a woman. The woman continued undressing Zhong Shan, and soon he felt himselfpletely naked.


    Zhong Shan''s heart was in turmoil. He finally understood what Gu Shentong meant. He had found a woman with the Nine Cauldrons physique to help Zhong Shan breakthrough to the Heavenly Extreme Realm.


    And now, he could only let the woman have her way with him, unable to move. The air became increasingly charged with a sensual atmosphere, but Zhong Shan had no thoughts of enjoyment.


    Because once he broke through, it would mean his demise. For the first time, Zhong Shan desperately did not want to breakthrough. For the first time, this proud man found himself being forced into intimacy by a woman. It was a profound humiliation, yet he had no way to resist.


    Anxious and helpless, Zhong Shan felt every touch on his skin sending rming signals to his brain. His body, controlled by Gu Shentong''s consciousness, responded instinctively.


    Don''t breakthrough, don''t breakthrough! Zhong Shan kept praying silently.


    Unfortunately, with a painful gasp, the lustful atmosphere filled the hall.


    Zhong Shan, utterly powerless, was manipted as he felt a mix of physical pleasure and mental anguish. Never had he imagined such conflicting emotions would befall him. "Why have you gone silent?" Gu Shentong suddenly asked.


    As physical ecstasy and spiritual torment intertwined, Zhong Shan found himself entangled in a situation he had never anticipated. "I know what''s happening. It''s starting! It''s starting! Hahaha, the Heavenly Extreme Realm, you''re about to reach the Heavenly Extreme Realm!" Gu Shentong shouted excitedly.


    Zhong Shan had lost all hope in the external woman''s help, because he could feel a slight loosening in his realm''s barrier. He was really on the verge of a breakthrough!


    "Heavenly Extreme Realm? So what if I reach it? Do you really think you can devour me? Impossible, absolutely impossible!" Zhong Shan shouted in a fit of rage.


    "Impossible? For me, Gu Shentong, nothing is impossible!" Gu Shentong sneered.


    "You want to grow stronger? Won''t I also be stronger? At the Heavenly Extreme Realm, I''ll be ten times more powerful! The oue is still uncertain!" Zhong Shan retorted stubbornly.


    "Hahaha, I admit, you will indeed be very powerful, extremely powerful. But so what? In the end, you will still be mine. I will be even stronger than you!" Gu Shentongughed coldly.


    "Impossible, you are merely residing in my body. How could you possibly be stronger?" Zhong Shan refused to believe it.


    "Because I am residing in your Shen Ting Acupoint!" Gu Shentong said confidently.


    "So what?"


    "The Heavenly Extreme Realm? When one reaches the Heavenly Extreme Realm, the heavens bestow boundless merit upon them, and this merit enters the body through the Shen Ting Acupoint. With that boundless merit to absorb, do you think you can still be my match?" Gu Shentongughed confidently.


    Boundless merit? Zhong Shan''s heart sank as he suddenly remembered the scene on Phoenix Ind when Xuan Yuan reached the Heavenly Extreme Realm. The heavens had bestowed infinite merit, which Xuan Yuanter transferred to Zhong Shan, causing his cultivation to skyrocket.


    Boundless merit? Merit? Zhong Shan''s heart was filled with rage. But the next moment, his rage was reced by a peculiar calm.


    "Are you saying that when one reaches the Heavenly Extreme Realm, the heavens bestow boundless merit upon them?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Didn''t you absorb it before? On Phoenix Ind, Xuan Yuan transferred it to you," Gu Shentong sneered.


    "You even know about that?" Zhong Shan was astonished.


    "I have investigated everything about you!" Gu Shentong said confidently.


    "But why do the heavens bestow boundless merit upon people of this realm?" Zhong Shan probed further.


    "This is the gift of the Lesser Thousand World. As long as you are from the Lesser Thousand World, boundless merit will descend upon you at the Heavenly Extreme Realm. Why?" Gu Shentong seemed to sense something off in Zhong Shan''s tone.


    "Are you sure only people from this Lesser Thousand World receive boundless merit from the heavens?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Yes! Why?" Gu Shentong was bing increasingly suspicious of Zhong Shan''s tone.


    Hearing Gu Shentong''s affirmation, Zhong Shan''s heart lightened, and an inexplicable happiness enveloped him.


    "What is going on?" Gu Shentong asked anxiously.


    "Gu Shentong, you were a legendary figure, but unfortunately, you missed one crucial detail, the most fatal one," Zhong Shan dered confidently.


    "What did I miss?"


    "You missed my origin!" Zhong Shan said resolutely.


    "Origin?"


    "Let me ask you, you investigated me thoroughly. Do you know the names of my parents?"


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Gu Shentong''s consciousness trembled.


    "Impossible, absolutely impossible! You were just a mortal back then, just a mere mortal, living a mundane life. You only had a chance to encounter the Immortal Dao at the age of eighty. It''s impossible!" Gu Shentong''s voice carried a hint of panic.


    "Nothing is impossible. So what if I was a mortal? Can''t a mortal enter from the outside? Can''t a mortal start cultivating immortality at the age of eighty? Hahaha, Gu Shentong, despite all your calctions, you never considered that before the age of twenty-five, I wasn''t even from this world! Hahaha!"

 Chapter 725: You Are Not Gu Shentong

    <h4>Chapter 725: You Are Not Gu Shentong</h4>


    "Nothing is impossible. So what if I was a mortal? Can''t a mortal enter from the outside? Can''t a mortal start cultivating at the age of eighty? Hahaha, Gu Shentong, despite all your calctions, you never considered that before I was twenty-five, I wasn''t even from this realm! Hahaha!" Zhong Shanughed triumphantly.


    "Impossible, absolutely impossible! You, a mere mortal, it''s simply impossible!" Gu Shentong''s consciousness roared in anger.


    "Nothing is impossible. Did you think you were the only one making calctions? Did you think I didn''t prepare for this day?" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "What do you mean?"


    "Decades ago, when Nu Qinghui imnted you in my body, I started preparing. The method I devised was risky, but it doesn''t mean I was helpless. Unfortunately for you, that method is unnecessary now because you are not Gu Shentong. To deal with you, there''s no need to take risks!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "I am Gu Shentong!"


    "Gu Shentong is your original body, but you will never rece him. At least, I can see the fundamental difference between you and Gu Shentong!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "What difference? Why am I not him?"


    "Perhaps your true body, the real Gu Shentong, kept something from you."


    "Oh?"


    "Let me ask you, why did Gu Shentong choose six people for you to possess instead of just any mortal? Why only choose from these six?" Zhong Shan asked sternly.


    "Because you are the most like me!"


    "Yes, we are very much like Gu Shentong. But why do you need to devour us? You say you are Gu Shentong. If you have your own consciousness, isn''t that enough? Why devour people who are simr to Gu Shentong?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Why? Why? ...!" Gu Shentong''s remnant seemed confused.


    "Because you are merely a vessel for memories. You are not Gu Shentong. Even if you devoured one of us, you would only be more like Gu Shentong. We would lose our memories and gain Gu Shentong''s past memories, but our personalities would remain ours. We would not be Gu Shentong, and you will never be Gu Shentong," Zhong Shan shouted.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Gu Shentong''s remnant fell silent.


    "Impossible, impossible...!" Gu Shentong''s remnant murmured.


    "Impossible? Haha, let me give you an example of how you and Gu Shentong are fundamentally different!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Speak!" the remnant yelled.


    "Regarding this sordid matter today, I believe if it were the real Gu Shentong, he would never have acted like a petty viin as you did. You are just a memory vessel. You don''t have the grand vision of Gu Shentong. The true Gu Shentong had the spirit of a creator, a vision you can neverprehend. Youck Gu Shentong''s ''will''." Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "Impossible! Then why did he leave me with this consciousness? Why?" the remnant shouted.


    After a long silence, Zhong Shan spoke calmly, "I think I understand now. I finally understand why Gu Shentong left you. I underestimated him. He didn''t hope for resurrection; he genuinely put all his effort into his great undertaking."


    "Why? Why did he leave me? Why?" the remnant couldn''t understand.


    "Deep emotions have always left nothing but regret!" Zhong Shan sighed.


    "What do you mean?"


    "Gu Shentong indeed made a resolute decision to create the world, fully aware of the potential failure. If he failed, he would turn to dust, his existencepletely obliterated. Therefore, he left you behind. He wanted to recreate an incredibly realistic ''Gu Shentong,'' not to continue his great work or dominate the world, but merely to apany Nu Qinghui after his death, so she wouldn''t be heartbroken and devastated forever," Zhong Shan said wistfully.


    "Are you saying my existence is merely to provide Nu Qinghui with psychologicalfort? That I''m just a relic left behind by Gu Shentong? Impossible, impossible!" the remnant muttered.


    "What else could it be? Youck so much��you don''t even have a basic personality, just memories. Even if you could devour me, it would only mean that I, Zhong Shan, would lose my past memories and gain some of Gu Shentong''s memories," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "Impossible, impossible!" the remnant could not ept this reality.


    "Alright, then think about it yourself. Are your memories of Gu Shentongplete?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I have all of Gu Shentong''s memories!" the remnant shouted immediately.


    "Then tell me, do you know about Lady Kong?" Zhong Shan asked with a sudden smile.


    Lady Kong. Although Zhong Shan knew little about her, he was aware that she was another emotional tribtion in Gu Shentong''s heart.


    "Lady Kong?" the remnant seemed to be deep in thought.


    "Gu Shentong destroyed the Elysium Pure Land because of Lady Kong. If you don''t know about her, what more is there to say?" Zhong Shanughed.


    "Lady Kong, Lady Kong. I will remember, I just have too many memories. I will definitely remember!" the remnant kept shouting.


    "Gu Shentong cannot be reced. He lives on in everyone''s hearts, while you are merely a memory vessel, just a crystal of memories, a relic," Zhong Shan continued to strike at the remnant.


    Regardless, Zhong Shan had to use the most venomous words to attack. The more chaotic Gu Shentong''s remnant''s thoughts became, the easier it would be to deal with him.


    The remnant fell into extreme confusion, struggling against Zhong Shan''s words. Why? Why is this happening? Am I Gu Shentong or not?


    Zhong Shan ignored Gu Shentong''s remnant because it no longer posed a threat. Once he broke through to the Heavenly Extreme Realm, it would be the remnant''s end.


    Outside his body, the soft form exuding a faint fragrance slowly released Zhong Shan and moved away. A pure yin energy entered Zhong Shan''s body through their recent dual cultivation.


    The barrier broke. Zhong Shan knew he was starting to break through.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan felt two ''water droplets'' fall on his cheek, followed by the faint sound of someone dressing.


    Zhong Shan was breaking through, and the Heavenly Extreme Realm breakthrough made him lose all awareness of what was happening on his skin.


    "Boom ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A sudden p of thunder echoed in the sky above the Heavenly Court of Lingxiao.


    The thunder was so unexpected that everyone in the Heavenly Court was shocked. It was incredibly loud, causing the hearts of everyone in the vast Heavenly Court to skip a beat.


    In the Wolf God Hall, Di Xuansha looked up at the sky. In the imperial capital, Wang Ku, Yi Yan, Zhong Tian, Ni Pusa, Yin Luori��all of the key officials of Great Zhen��looked up at the sky with narrowed eyes.


    A p of thunder? Why did it boom in the sky above the Heavenly Court of Lingxiao?


    Above the sea of clouds of fortune, the neen-wed fortune golden dragon suddenly rose and roared excitedly at the source of the thunder.


    "Roar!"


    A dragon''s roar, devoid of anger, brimming with excitement and joy, eerily reverberated throughout the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. This roar mysteriously spread to all the cities of the Great Zhen Imperial Dynasty. In every city, the sound of a dragon''s roar suddenly echoed in the sky.


    In the Great Zhen Imperial Dynasty, all the people in the cities paused and looked up at the sky in amazement.


    Although those in distant cities couldn''t see the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the excitement transmitted through the dragon''s roar touched the hearts of everyone in Great Zhen.


    Excitement?


    "His Majesty has broken through! His Majesty has reached the Heavenly Extreme Realm, the final realm of mortals!" An insightful individual suddenly shouted, his voice trembling with excitement.


    His Majesty has reached the Heavenly Extreme Realm? The final realm of mortals? Thest realm?


    Upon hearing this conclusion, the citizens of Great Zhen disyed expressions of joy.


    "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live forever!"


    At this moment, Zhong Shan finally secured the reality of being hailed for eternity, truly achieving the lifespan of ten thousand years.


    As the first person shouted, the entire popce of the city joined in.


    "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live forever!"


    "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live forever!"


    The vast scene across the Great Zhen Imperial Dynasty and thends of the Divine Province was one of countless cities simultaneously celebrating Zhong Shan''s eternal life and the prosperity of the Great Zhen Imperial Dynasty. Zhong Shan''s breakthrough was a celebration for all!


    The majestic mor soared to the heavens.


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the sea of fortune clouds churned incessantly, and the sea of merit clouds surged wildly.


    "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live forever!"


    Above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, countless citizens knelt in continuous worship. With His Majesty reaching the Heavenly Extreme Realm, Great Zhen was poised to ascend to new heights.


    Outside the secret chamber where Zhong Shan resided, the empresses, Di Xuansha, Wang Ku, Ni Pusa, Zhong Tian, and others waited patiently.


    Everyone knew what this moment meant, and everyone''s heart was filled with excitement.


    In the sky, after the thunderous sound, there was:


    "Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack!"


    The sky above split open with numerous fissures. It seemed as if the heavens themselves were shattering. But within the fissures was not darkness, but an infinite outpouring of purple light, apanied by endless lightning raining down.


    "Roar!"


    The neen-wed fortune golden dragon roared again, its feet acting like lightning rods, attracting all the lightning to protect the entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    This was the formation of Zhong Shan''s "Heaven," a Heaven belonging solely to Zhong Shan. The former imitation of Heaven''s thunder was no longer needed. A true Emperor''s Heaven had formed. The Heaven of the Emperor, the Heaven of Great Zhen.

 Chapter 726: The Purple Heaven Illuminates the World

    <h4>Chapter 726: The Purple Heaven Illuminates the World</h4>


    A purple sky? Above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, countless people looked up, gazing at this unusual scene. The purple "heaven," filled with shing lightning, was surrounded by an ethereal purple mist that inspired awe and fear in those who saw it.


    "A purple sky? This purple ''heaven'' is filled with imperial majesty and an overwhelming presence!" Wang Ku took a deep breath.


    "Not only that, His Majesty''s ''heaven'' also carries an extraordinary thunderous power, unlike anything ordinary!" Ni Pusa said calmly.


    "But why hasn''t the heavenly merit descended?" Yin Luori frowned.


    "Perhaps the merit was directly infused into the pce, which is why we can''t see it," Ni Pusa exined, though there was a flicker of doubt in his eyes.


    The others shared Ni Pusa''s confusion. However, understanding the gravity of the situation, no one voiced their doubts further. Instead, they kept their spections to themselves, waiting in silence for Zhong Shan to emerge.


    Outside, the purple "heaven" expanded, soon covering the entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The knowledgeable individuals within the court recognized Zhong Shan''s breakthrough, and nearly everyone paused their activities to look toward the pce, offering their respectful blessings.


    Inside the secret chamber, Zhong Shan sat cross-legged, naked.


    The breakthrough to the Heavenly Extreme Realm felt like a surge of power from the heavens, increasing his strength dramatically. Despite the absence of heavenly merit, Zhong Shan was unconcerned. There was more to be had above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Upon reaching the Heavenly Extreme Realm, Zhong Shan immediately began to deal with the remnant consciousness within him.


    He showed no mercy to this remnant. The moment the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail regained its strength, it devoured the remnant.


    Gu Shentong''s remnant, trapped in a state of mental confusion, stood no chance against Zhong Shan, whose increased strength allowed him to finally rid himself of this lingering threat.


    The Heavenly Extreme Realm was a significant threshold. Crossing it not only greatly enhanced Zhong Shan''s cultivation but also exponentially increased the power of the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail. Zhong Shan felt that the tail had undoubtedly broken through another barrier, dramatically increasing its speed and making it an even more formidable weapon.


    With the influx of energy,bined with the benefits of the earlier dual cultivation, Zhong Shan''s cultivation soared to the first level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm.


    Unfortunately, the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture and the Heavenly Demon Body Refinement Technique did not upgrade.


    Zhong Shan meditated with closed eyes, sensing himself and everything around him.


    He sat in this state for an hour, while outside, the officials waited patiently for him.


    After an hour, Zhong Shan opened his eyes. A purple lightning bolt shot out three inches from his eyes before disappearing.


    Outside, the purple "heaven" suddenly retracted, signaling to everyone that Zhong Shan was about toe out.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath and stood up. The woman who had been in the hall was long gone.


    Naked, his bronze-colored muscr body was exposed, with some bloodstains from the woman on his lower body. The hall was in disarray, his clothes crumpled on the floor.


    The two "water droplets" left on his face by the woman slowly slid down to his mouth, their salty taste stimting his senses.


    Tears?


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    Zhong Shan gently picked up his crumpled clothes, stored away the array diagram of the ''Great Luo Heavenly Star Array,'' and cleaned himself before changing into a new set of clothes. He then slowly walked to the front of the hall.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan opened the hall doors.


    "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live forever!" The officials outside the hall shouted in unison.


    Bao''er, Ling''er, Qing Si, Zhong Tian, Di Xuansha, Ni Pusa, and others looked at Zhong Shan with excitement and anticipation.


    Seeing their expressions, Zhong Shan felt a warmth in his heart.


    "Everyone, you may retire. We will meet in the morning court tomorrow," Zhong Shan announced.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" The officials responded promptly.


    Seeing Zhong Shan unharmed and sessfully breaking through, Di Xuansha and the others felt relieved. They nodded to Zhong Shan and then left, leaving behind only a few attendants and the three empresses.


    "Zhong Shan, you broke through?" Tian Ling''er asked excitedly, as if she herself had broken through.


    "Yes, I have surpassed you by a lot. You need to speed up your cultivation," Zhong Shan joked.


    "I''m already very fast!" Tian Ling''er pouted.


    "Bao''er, Qing Si, and Ling''er, you should go back first. I have something to attend to," Zhong Shan said.


    "Okay," the three women nodded.


    After sending off the three empresses, Zhong Shan headed straight to the Great Zhen prison.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty! Long live, long live forever!" The guards at the prison quickly knelt.


    Liu Wushuang appeared in time and immediately said, "Your Majesty, why have youe to the prison?"


    "Where is the first cell of Heaven?" Zhong Shan asked sternly.


    "The prison is an inauspicious ce, Your Majesty..." Liu Wushuang tried to dissuade him.


    "Take me there!" Zhong Shanmanded firmly.


    "Yes!" Liu Wushuang did not dare to argue.


    Following Liu Wushuang, Zhong Shan stepped into the prison and quickly reached a secluded, spacious cell where the guards waited a hundred zhang (approximately 330 meters) away.


    Seeing all the guards standing so far from the cell, Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    He walked to the cell.


    "Wait outside," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Liu Wushuang responded immediately.


    Zhong Shan stepped into the cell.


    The cell was very spacious, with plenty of sunlight streaming in. Inside, there was only one meditation cushion, ced in a corner.


    Nu Qinghui was sitting calmly on the cushion, seemingly unaware of Zhong Shan''s arrival. Behind her, two lines of words were written on the wall.


    Approaching Nu Qinghui quickly, Zhong Shan reached out to touch her.


    "Whoosh!"


    Nu Qinghui''s body suddenly melted, gradually turning into a puddle of sludge, like a snowman melting.


    "A y vessel body?" Zhong Shan muttered to himself.


    A y vessel, representing mud and marshes, indicated that Nu Qinghui had used a y body to sit here, while her true self had long since left.


    Could the woman in the secret hall earlier really have been her?


    On the wall behind where Nu Qinghui had been sitting, two lines of writing read:


    "True or false, false or true, my heart is dead, my heart is dead, my heart is dead, my heart is dead!"


    Staring at the two lines of writing, Zhong Shan remained silent for a long moment.


    "So, you already knew the remnant wasn''t Gu Shentong. Why go through all this trouble?" Zhong Shan said softly.


    With a slightlyplicated expression, Zhong Shan waved his hand. The writing on the wall and the puddle of sludge on the ground disappeared.


    Sighing slightly, Zhong Shan left the cell.


    As Zhong Shan stepped out, Liu Wushuang approached and saw the remnants of Nu Qinghui disappearing from the cell.


    "Your Majesty, I am at fault for not keeping Nu Qinghui secured!" Liu Wushuang said anxiously.


    "Forget it! There''s no need to bring this up again," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Liu Wushuang answered.


    The next day, in the Great Zhen court.


    "Congrattions, Your Majesty, on achieving the eternal body!" the officials congratted.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Your Majesty, now that you have achieved the eternal body, can our Great Zhen Imperial Dynasty advance further?" Yi Yan asked.


    To advance further meant to be a Heavenly Dynasty.


    "We wee Great Zhen''s advancement!" the officials chanted.


    Looking at the officials, Zhong Shan said, "Not for now."


    The officials were taken aback.


    "Why?" Shui Wuhen asked in confusion.


    "It''s not the right time yet!" Zhong Shan tapped his dragon throne.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    Zhong Shan''s decision was final, and the officials had to agree.


    Three monthster, in the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty.


    Kong Lietian sat on the dragon throne, listening to a minister report on the affairs of Great Zhen.


    "Your Majesty, Zhong Shan has broken through to the Heavenly Extreme Realm, and the purple sky illuminates the world! What does this signify?" Sekong asked.


    "A purple sky? It is said that only those with extremely solid and profound foundations can have the purple sky illuminate the world. The stronger the foundation, the deeper the purple. But Zhong Shan has only been cultivating for a few hundred years?" Kong Lietian pondered.


    "Does Zhong Shan have a profound foundation?" Sekong was surprised.


    "Wangchen, what do you think?" Kong Lietian suddenly looked at Wangchen.


    Wangchen, formerly Zhong Shan''s adopted son Zhong Shijiu, had aplex history with Zhong Shan.


    "I don''t know!" Wangchen replied.


    "What do you think?"


    "I dare not specte recklessly!" Zhong Shijiu said.


    "I forgive you," Kong Lietian said gravely.


    "Yes, Zhong Shan is an unpredictable anomaly. As Your Majesty said, his foundation is extremely profound!" Wangchen said.


    Wangchen''s words echoed Kong Lietian''s sentiments but revealed little. Kong Lietian narrowed his eyes at Wangchen, who respectfully stepped back. This topic might not mean much to others, but it was sensitive for Wangchen, who had to respond carefully to maintain his loyalty.


    In the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty.


    Ying, the ruler, listened to Li Si''s report, tapping his dragon throne thoughtfully.


    Zhong Shan had reached the Heavenly Extreme Realm but had chosen to remain an imperial dynasty rather than upgrading. This decision wasrgely influenced by considerations of the Underworld.


    In the mortal realm, upgrading to a heavenly dynasty would be natural, but the Underworld was different. Upgrading to a heavenly dynasty would attract significant attention and expectations.


    Zhong Shan''s strategy was to "first umte grain, then slowly proim kingship," ensuring a solid foundation in the Underworld before upgrading both realms together.


    Currently, the Underworld presented a great opportunity.


    In the past, the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty and the Star Sect had colluded with the Great Thousand World''s Wu n, leading to the Underworld''s Tian Family destroying them. The southern heavenly dynasty of the Underworld copsed, with many imperial dynasties vying for control.


    Imperial dynasties were falling, royal dynasties were rising, and the battles in the Underworld were just as fierce as those in the mortal realm.


    To this day, the south had not yet calmed from the wars.


    This chaotic southern region presented Zhong Shan with a perfect opportunity for expansion in the Underworld.

 Chapter 727: Strategizing in the Underworld

    <h4>Chapter 727: Strategizing in the Underworld</h4>


    In the southern Underworld.


    Initially, only six imperial dynasties surrounding the Great Yan Heavenly Dynasty were vying for territory, but the conflict triggered a chain reaction. The southeastern, southern, and southwestern regions became embroiled in the battle, involving a total of thirty imperial dynasties.


    umted grievances over countless years erupted in these decades of warfare. Some dynasties perished, new ones emerged, yet no heavenly dynasty was born.


    Amidst the continuous wars and struggles for supremacy, three powers stood out, invincible in their advance.


    The Great Zhen Imperial Dynasty, a previously obscure and mysterious dynasty. From the eastern Underworld, every battle they engaged in was a decisive victory, demonstrating overwhelming strength.


    The Tianmai Imperial Dynasty, originating from the central Underworld near the Hell''s Yellow Springs, a dynasty under the Tian family of the Underworld. Commanding the three armies was Xiao Wang. Xiao Wang, overseeing the three armies, led them southward with unmatched prowess.


    The Five Colors Imperial Dynasty, situated in the western Underworld, marched eastward undefeated.


    These three imperial dynasties, undefeated in their campaigns, stood out conspicuously. Meanwhile, the other twenty-seven imperial dynasties experienced both victories and defeats, with some falling and others rising.


    In the Tianmai Imperial Dynasty''s frontline camp, within the central military hall.


    Generals lined both sides of the hall, while Xiao Wang sat behind themand table, which was covered with various intelligence reports.


    Xiao Wang read and pondered.


    As Xiao Wang was contemting, the generals on both sides suddenly shouted in unison, "Greetings to the head of the Tian family!"


    Xiao Wang looked up to see Tian Xiaozi stepping in.


    Xiao Wang immediately stood up.


    "Greetings, Master!" Xiao Wang said.


    "Mm, you may all leave," Tian Xiaozi instructed the others.


    "Yes!" The generalsplied and exited, leaving only Tian Xiaozi and Xiao Wang in the hall.


    "How are you adapting to the frontlines?" Tian Xiaozi asked.


    "I was responsible for waging wars in the mortal realm. Adaptation isn''t an issue," Xiao Wang replied humbly.


    "Good, you are my most capable subordinate. The southern Underworld relies on you," Tian Xiaozi said.


    Xiao Wang frowned slightly and asked, "May I ask what your ultimate goal is, Master?"


    With a gentle smile, Tian Xiaozi said, "First, we will take control of the entire south."


    Understanding Tian Xiaozi''s ambition, Xiao Wang immediately responded, "Yes!"


    Pleased with Xiao Wang''s attitude, Tian Xiaozi asked, "Anything unusual in the south?"


    "There are some anomalies," Xiao Wang replied.


    "Oh?"


    "The Great Zhen Imperial Dynasty," Xiao Wang affirmed.


    "The Great Zhen Imperial Dynasty? Zhong Shan again?" Tian Xiaozi''s pupils contracted.


    "Yes, the Great Zhen Imperial Dynasty has suddenly gained several formidable generals and strategists," Xiao Wang said seriously.


    "Who exactly?"


    "Zhao Suoxiang, Shui Wuhen, Mr. Shui Jing, and even..."


    "And even what?"


    "I even sense the strategic influence of Mr. Yi Yan from the mortal realm in these arrangements. I can''t be certain, but it''s a strong feeling," Xiao Wang said with a frown.


    "Who are these people exactly?" Tian Xiaozi asked.


    "Zhao Suoxiang and Shui Wuhen were not very famous in the past, but Mr. Shui Jing''s name is extremely well-known in the mortal realm. His wisdom is extraordinary, not inferior to mine," Xiao Wang replied solemnly.


    "And what about Yi Yan?"


    "Yi Yan possesses an uncanny ability to strategize. He was the Grand Commander of the Great Yu Imperial Dynasty. Before Zhong Shan rose to prominence, I always wanted topete with him, but I never had the chance," Xiao Wang said gravely.


    "The Great Zhen Imperial Dynasty?" Tian Xiaozi frowned slightly.


    "Rest assured, Master. I will investigate this matter thoroughly and report back with any new information," Xiao Wang assured.


    "Mm, I trust your capabilities," Tian Xiaozi said, smiling at Xiao Wang.


    "Thank you for your trust, Master!"


    In the Underworld, within the Great Zhen Imperial Dynasty, in the capital city of Changjing, Zhong Shan''s study.


    Many of the mortal realm''s brilliant strategists and powerful generals had been brought down.


    Yi Yan, Mr. Shui Jing, Zhao Suoxiang, Shui Wuhen��these were all exceptional leaders, each one worth more than a million soldiers.


    For the first time, all nine of Great Zhen''s corpsmanders, except for the second corpsmander Wei Yinn, were gathered together.


    Lin Xiao, Yi Yan, Mr. Corpse, Shui Wuhen, Mr. Shui Jing, Yan Chongzhi, Zhao Suoxiang, Wang Ku!


    Zhong Shan''s goal for the southern Underworld was not to gain a little territory but to take it all. Therefore, while the mortal realm remained stable, these powerful individuals were sent here to prepare for the southern campaign.


    "Yi Yan, you speak," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. After extensive research, it seems that the war in the southern Underworld has just begun. Ultimately, only two imperial dynasties can truly contend with ours. The first is the Five Colors Imperial Dynasty, backed by the Immortal Realm Unaging World, simr to the Eternal Life World in the mortal realm. They aim to establish a puppet heavenly dynasty in the Underworld," Yi Yan exined.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "The Five Colors Imperial Dynasty is far from us, one in the east and the other in the west. To engage them formally will take some time. For now, our strategy is to gatherprehensive information on the Five Colors Imperial Dynasty to prepare for the final showdown," Yi Yan continued.


    "You will be responsible for this. Collect intelligence from all over and provide the most urate information to ourmanders," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes," Yi Yan nodded.


    "Continue."


    "The second is the Tianmai Imperial Dynasty, backed by the Tian family of the Underworld. Theirmander, Xiao Wang, is an old acquaintance. We don''t need to sh with them for now. After subduing other imperial dynasties, we will face them in the final battle. However, I haven''t gathered enough information on the head of the Tian family," Yi Yan said.


    "Tian Xiaozi?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes," Yi Yan nodded.


    "Tian Xiaozi is not someone to be overly concerned about. He is a genius in cultivation and has wisdom, butcks a grand vision," Zhong Shan stated confidently.


    "Oh?"


    "He is exceptionally intelligent, not inferior to any of you, but hecks strategic foresight. In the past, he suspected I would target the Tian family but grewcent due to his confidence in the Tian family. Xiao Wang is much stronger in this regard. As long as we focus on Xiao Wang, there''s no need to worry too much about Tian Xiaozi," Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    "Understood," Yi Yan nodded.


    "Continue."


    "Yes, our next step is to swiftly conquer the surrounding imperial dynasties and secure all advantageous positions as quickly as possible," Yi Yan said.


    Zhong Shan nodded in agreement, preparing his empire for the next stage of their campaign in the Underworld.


    Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Organize the army into four main divisions. Appoint Lin Xiao as the First Division Marshal, Shui Wuhen as the Second Division Marshal, Mr. Shui Jing as the Third Division Marshal, and Zhao Suoxiang as the Fourth Division Marshal. Follow Yi Yan''s grand strategy to secure the four corners," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Understood!" the five corpsmanders responded immediately.


    "Mr. Corpse will lead the Fifth Division, supporting the other four divisions as per Yi Yan''s arrangements," Zhong Shan continued.


    "Understood!" Mr. Corpse replied promptly.


    "You all may go now. Yan Chongzhi and Wang Ku, stay behind," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!"


    The others left, leaving Yan Chongzhi and Wang Ku.


    At this moment, a woman entered the study. It was Empress Gu Qianyou.


    "Greetings, Empress!" Yan Chongzhi and Wang Ku bowed.


    Gu Qianyou nodded and walked over to Zhong Shan''s side.


    "Qianyou, this time I need you to undertake a significant task," Zhong Shan said.


    "I can''t stay idle. After all these years, my mind is getting rusty!" Gu Qianyou wrinkled her nose.


    "Now there''s something important for you to do. Unfortunately, I can''t go with you," Zhong Shan sighed.


    "You are the emperor, and with war breaking out, you need tomand the central army. I''m just one of your soldiers now. Tell me, which side do you want me to strike?" Gu Qianyou said with a smile.


    "Securing the south is critical, and your task is the most crucial part. It will take a long time, but I''ll have Yan Chongzhi, Wang Ku, and Old Man Jiu assist you fully," Zhong Shan said.


    Yan Chongzhi frowned slightly, recognizing the importance of this mission. What exactly was it?


    "Oh?" Gu Qianyou was puzzled. Why were two corpsmanders involved?


    "This time, you will venture deep into ghost territory. Yan Chongzhi, as the Ghost King, and Wang Ku, as the Skeleton King, are very familiar with the area. Old Man Jiu will be there to warn you of any dangers. Be careful," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    Three dayster, the marshals embarked on their campaigns. Gu Qianyou, apanied by Yan Chongzhi, Wang Ku, Old Man Jiu, and a dozen ghost cultivator subordinates, left the capital Changjing.


    A year passed, and the battles continued. Zhong Shan remained in Changjing, overseeing the campaign.


    One day, in Zhong Shan''s study, a guard entered.


    "Your Majesty, a woman in red seeks an audience with the ''Nine Dragon Token,''" the guard reported respectfully.


    The Nine Dragon Token? A woman?


    The Nine Dragon Token was a symbol of imperial authority, allowing its bearer to be treated as if the emperor himself were present. Zhong Shan had issued a few of these tokens. Who could be bringing it now?


    "Let her in," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    Soon, a woman in red, escorted by the guard, entered. After she was brought in, the guard withdrew.


    The woman, dressed in red, had a red sword strapped to her back, looking valiant and extraordinary.


    "Jian Hong?" Zhong Shan eximed in surprise.


    Zhong Shan immediately stood up, astonished to see Jian Hong.


    "Jian Hong pays respects to her benefactor!"


    Jian Hong, the former master of the Sword God Pce in the mortal realm, was the daughter of Sword Master Jian Ao and the wife of Xiao Wang. After Xiao Wang was killed by Shen Qi Tian, Jian Hong had pursued Shen Qi Tian across the Divine Province. Unfortunately, she was ultimately killed by Shen Qi Tian. Zhong Shan hadter helped her condense her soul.


    "Please, rise. Jian Hong, how do you have the Nine Dragon Token?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    He had never given Jian Hong a Nine Dragon Token. How did shee to possess one?


    "I encountered an old acquaintance of yours in the Underworld. He asked me to deliver a message to you and gave me the Nine Dragon Token to ensure you would believe me," Jian Hong exined.


    Taking the Nine Dragon Token, Zhong Shan examined it and said, "This is Wei Taizhong''s Nine Dragon Token!"

 Chapter 728: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Strategy Against Xiao Wang

    <h4>Chapter 728: Zhong Shan��s Strategy Against Xiao Wang</h4>


    "Yes, it''s Wei Taizhong''s," Jian Hong confirmed.


    Looking at the Nine Dragon Token in his hand, Zhong Shan frowned slightly. In the mortal realm, Jian Hong had never met Wei Taizhong, but Wei Taizhong knew of Jian Hong because of Zhong Shan.


    "How did you two meet?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    "After I died, I entered the Underworld, and my spirit appeared near the northern Sunflower Mountains. At first, I was very weak, so I cultivated there. Not long ago, Wei Taizhong passed by and got into a battle with a myriad of ghost cultivators, which caught my attention. He saw me and immediately called out my name, and that''s how we met," Jian Hong exined.


    "Oh?"


    "But the Sunflower Mountains are also home to an old demon named Sunflower Demon, who forcibly took Wei Taizhong as his disciple."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan grew even more intrigued.


    "One day, Wei Taizhong came to find me. He said you had descended from the mortal realm, but he had to go to the Great Thousand World with the Sunflower Demon and wanted me to bring you a message," Jian Hong continued.


    "To the Great Thousand World? The Sunflower Demon has the ability to traverse between realms?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrows furrowed deeply.


    "I don''t know," Jian Hong shook her head.


    "What message did he want you to bring?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "He said, ''Your Majesty, my master holds old Wei in high regard. I''ve learned the origin of that Asura from my master, and I have requested to apany my master to the Great Thousand World to find Yinn. In this realm, I cannot assist Your Majesty. When you reach the Great Thousand World, I will bring Yinn to continue serving you!''" Jian Hong ryed.


    Hearing Wei Taizhong''s message, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and fell into a moment of silence. Jian Hong waited patiently.


    After a while, Zhong Shan looked at Jian Hong and said, "I have met Xiao Wang. He has be a prominent figure in the Underworld. Do you not want to see him now?"


    Jian Hong''s expression grewplicated at the mention of Xiao Wang, showing a mix of deep love and inner conflict.


    Shaking her head, Jian Hong said, "I haven''t thought it through yet. I don''t want to see him now."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow, sensing there was more to it.


    "I still can''te to terms with it. I don''t know how to face him. Wei Taizhong once advised me, but I still can''t let go," Jian Hong shook her head.


    "Do you have a ce to go for now?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "No, I just wander wherever I can," Jian Hong replied.


    "If you have nowhere to go, why not stay here for now? We can talk about things from the mortal realm," Zhong Shan suggested.


    After a moment of contemtion, Jian Hong nodded, "Alright."


    "Someone,e!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Your Majesty!" Two attendants entered the study.


    "Take Jian Hong to reside in Xiaoxiang Garden. While she is here, she will be the master of Xiaoxiang Garden," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" the two attendants responded promptly.


    "Thank you, benefactor!" Jian Hong said, not pretending to be modest, and nodded to Zhong Shan in gratitude.


    After Jian Hong left, Zhong Shan stood at the doorway, his brows furrowed deeply.


    "Taizhong, if you could persuade the Sunflower Demon to take you to the Great Thousand World, why couldn''t you persuade him toe see me? Are you afraid to see me, or did you deliberately send Jian Hong to me? Jian Hong?" Zhong Shan shook his head, a hint of sigh in his tone.


    Four yearster, in the southern Underworld, out of the original thirty imperial dynasties, only twenty remained. The Great Zhen, Tianmai, and Five Colors Imperial Dynasties had all gone from emerging powers to dominant forces.


    The military might of Great Zhen, the Tianmai, and the Five Colors Imperial Dynasties was formidable and unyielding. The Five Colors Imperial Dynasty had won six out of ten battles, the Tianmai Imperial Dynasty had won eight out of ten, and Great Zhen had an impable record of undefeated victories.


    In four years of war, Great Zhen had conquered three imperial dynasties, while the Five Colors and Tianmai each conquered two. The battles continued, and the dominance of the three major imperial dynasties was unquestionable. If the other imperial dynasties couldn''t unite against them, they would eventually be conquered.


    In the fourth year, the territories of Great Zhen and the Tianmai Imperial Dynasty began to meet for the first time. Under themand of Mr. Shui Jing, Great Zhen''s forces upied a city called Feather Fan City, while the nearest city, Dragon yer City, was taken by Xiao Wang.


    Both cities were fortresses. The twomanders stood opposed, watching each other from a distance.


    In Dragon yer City, on the south city wall, Xiao Wang and Tian Xiaozi stood, gazing into the distance.


    "Master, the city across the mountain ranges is Feather Fan City,manded by Mr. Shui Jing," Xiao Wang said with a frown.


    "Mr. Shui Jing?"


    "Yes, Mr. Shui Jing. Over the past four years, it should be clear to you, Master, that Mr. Shui Jing''s abilities are extraordinary. His strategies are divine, and with a mere wave of his feather fan, he can make strong enemies vanish like smoke. He is truly a master of warfare!" Xiao Wang said with a frown of admiration.


    "You are not weak yourself," Tian Xiaozi praised.


    "But besides me, no one here can rival Mr. Shui Jing. Even my two adopted sons are not his match. If I leave this ce, Dragon yer City will fall to Mr. Shui Jing within six months," Xiao Wang said worriedly.


    "Is he really that formidable?" Tian Xiaozi raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, he is that formidable. I can''t leave this ce. If this city falls, the Great Zhen army will strike deep into our rear, putting our entire army at risk," Xiao Wang said anxiously.


    "Mm," Tian Xiaozi pondered.


    "I''m here to guard against Mr. Shui Jing, but the battle reports from the frontlines take too long to reach me and for me to respond. It''s too dyed," Xiao Wang said with concern.


    "Mr. Shui Jing?" Tian Xiaozi''s eyes turned cold.


    "But that''s not the main issue. The main issue is that Great Zhen has deployed another marshal, Zhao Suoxiang," Xiao Wang said, frowning.


    "Zhao Suoxiang?"


    "The four marshals of Great Zhen each have their unique strengths. Mr. Shui Jing''s wisdom is unparalleled, and his strategies are invincible. Zhao Suoxiang, on the other hand, is the soul of the army. As long as he is on the battlefield, his passionate spirit infects his troops, making them invincible in the vanguard," Xiao Wang exined.


    "Great Zhen is determined to take Dragon yer City?" Tian Xiaozi frowned.


    "Yes, but rest assured, Master. As long as I am stationed at Dragon yer City, they will never capture it," Xiao Wang assured.


    "Mm, but why would they send Zhao Suoxiang?" Tian Xiaozi frowned slightly.


    In Changjing, the capital of Great Zhen.


    "Your Majesty, why send Zhao Suoxiang?" Yi Yan asked with a frown.


    "Why not send Zhao Suoxiang?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "Xiao Wang is a military genius,parable to Mr. Shui Jing. They are likely to engage in a prolonged strategic battle. While General Zhao can assist Mr. Shui Jing, the terrain limits his effectiveness. It will only cause Xiao Wang to remain in his stronghold, leading to a stalemate. This will not yield significant results and will deprive us of a key force for conquering other cities," Yi Yan said with a frown.


    Zhong Shan smiled, his eyes gleaming with confidence. "Yi Yan, you are correct in your assessment of the terrain and the strategic standoff. However, there is more to this than meets the eye. Our true advantage lies not in the immediate victories but in the psychological warfare and the long-term disruption of our enemy''s ns. Zhao Suoxiang''s presence will instill fear and force Xiao Wang into a defensive posture, ultimately creating opportunities for us to exploit."


    Yi Yan''s eyes widened in realization. "I see, Your Majesty. By keeping Xiao Wang upied and on the defensive, we can maneuver more freely and set the stage for a decisive strike."


    "Exactly," Zhong Shan said, nodding. "This is not just about the present battles but about shaping the futurendscape of our conflict. We must think several steps ahead to ensure our ultimate victory."


    Understanding the wisdom in Zhong Shan''s strategy, Yi Yan bowed deeply. "Your Majesty''s insight is unparalleled. I will ensure that our forces are ready to capitalize on this opportunity."


    Zhong Shan''s smile widened. "Good. Now, let us continue to n our next moves and solidify our position in the Underworld. Victory will be ours."


    "Xiao Wang staying behind closed doors? That''s exactly what I want. One less main force? Lin Xiao and Shui Wuhen''s armies are more than enough. Slower conquests are eptable as long as Dragon yer City is dealt with properly!" Zhong Shan asserted confidently.


    Yi Yan''s expression changed, and he suddenly asked in surprise, "Your Majesty, do you intend to recruit Xiao Wang?"


    "Hahaha, you know me well!" Zhong Shanughed.


    "But Xiao Wang is a member of the Tian family. Would he agree?" Yi Yan frowned.


    "Xiao Wang''s talent surpasses that of Tian Xiaozi. Tian Xiaozi prides himself on being smart, but his intelligence is not enough to suppress Xiao Wang. From the Yan Hong Dynasty in the mortal realm, it''s clear that Xiao Wang''s ambitions are grand, and he won''t submit to anyone easily. Unfortunately, his luck has always been poor," Zhong Shan evaluated.


    After some thought, Yi Yan asked, "Does Your Majesty intend topletely defeat him first, so that he subconsciously sees himself as inferior to Your Majesty, and then seize the opportunity to recruit him with grace?"


    Zhong Shan smiled at Yi Yan. "Nothing escapes your notice!"


    "Your Majesty overpraises me. But stationing Shui Jing and Zhao Suoxiang at Feather Fan City is not a short-term endeavor. Is it worth spending such a long time on this?" Yi Yan asked.


    "Xiao Wang alone is worth more than twenty imperial dynasties. Do you think it''s worth it?" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    Only Zhong Shan truly understood Xiao Wang''s capabilities. Moreover, the political benefits of recruiting Xiao Wang far outweighed the investment. How could Zhong Shan miss such an opportunity?


    "Your Majesty is wise!"��


    The standoff between Dragon yer City and Feather Fan Citysted a full ten years��ten long years!


    Mr. Shui Jing never left Feather Fan City, and Xiao Wang had no choice but to remain in Dragon yer City. The two armies were at a stalemate.


    In Dragon yer City, within the City Lord''s Mansion.


    "Father, in these ten years, our army has only taken two cities. Your presence here means many of our military orders cannot be swiftly executed!" Xiao Yuanfeng, Xiao Wang''s adopted son from the mortal realm, said with a frown.


    Xiao Wang frowned deeply.


    "Father, is Feather Fan City truly that difficult to capture? I am willing to lead an expedition to take Feather Fan City!" Xiao Yuanfeng eximed.


    "No. In directbat, you are no match for Zhao Suoxiang. Even I am not his equal. Attacking would only lead to our defeat. We wouldn''t take Feather Fan City and would lose Dragon yer City as well," Xiao Wang shook his head.


    "But Father, ten years! You''ve been guarding this city for ten years. Think of what we could have aplished in that time. Spending ten years here is truly a waste, Father!" Xiao Yuanfeng said anxiously.


    "This city cannot fall. Ten years, twenty years, I will hold this ce!" Xiao Wang said firmly.


    "Shui Jing keeps sending people to provoke us. Their words get more insulting each time. If it were me, I would have lost patience long ago," Xiao Yuanfeng said anxiously.


    "That''s precisely why you are not themander of the three armies!" Xiao Wang shook his head.


    "But the officials in the capital mock us every day. They call us ipetent, saying we''re like turtles hiding in our shells, afraid to fight for ten years!" Xiao Yuanfeng said angrily.


    Anger shed in Xiao Wang''s eyes, but he quickly suppressed it. "Let themugh. Those vermin are not worth our concern!"


    "Yes!" Xiao Yuanfeng could only endure silently.


    "Reporting to themander, an envoy from Feather Fan City seeks an audience!" a guard reported.


    "Oh? An envoy from Shui Jing?" Xiao Yuanfeng raised an eyebrow.


    "Let them in!" Xiao Wangmanded.

 Chapter 729: A Great Humiliation

    <h4>Chapter 729: A Great Humiliation</h4>


    "Let them in!" Xiao Wangmanded with a frown.


    "Yes!" The guard quickly withdrew.


    "Father, why would Shui Jing send someone here?" Xiao Yuanfeng asked, frowning.


    "We''ll know when they arrive," Xiao Wang replied, his brow also furrowed, clearly unsure of Shui Jing''s intentions.


    "Mm."


    Soon, a messenger in luxurious robes was brought in. It was none other than Zhong Shan''s adopted son, Zhong Zheng, who was in charge of the Da Rong Commerce Guild''s development in the Underworld. However, unlike the mortal realm, developing in the Underworld was not easy. Now, he had arrived at Dragon yer City as an envoy.


    "Who are you?" Xiao Wang asked.


    "A mere foot soldier from Feather Fan City, here under the orders of mymander to meet General Xiao," Zhong Zheng said with a smile.


    Seeing Zhong Zheng''s calm demeanor, Xiao Yuanfeng frowned slightly. Even a messenger from Great Zhen disyed such poise?


    "Whichmander?" Xiao Wang asked, frowning.


    "Commander Shui Jing," Zhong Zheng replied with a hint of respect in his voice.


    "Oh?" Xiao Wang''s frown deepened.


    "We''ve been at war for ten years now. In these ten years, Great Zhen has issued two hundred challenges, and General Xiao has never epted a single one. Mymander greatly admires General Xiao''s patience and restraint. Two hundred challenges! It will surely be a tale for the ages!" Zhong Zheng said, his tone filled with admiration. But hidden within his words was a deep sarcasm.


    A cold glint shed in Xiao Wang''s eyes, while anger briefly appeared in Xiao Yuanfeng''s.


    "Of course, these are mymander''s words. To show his admiration for General Xiao, he has sent me to present a gift to General Xiao, hoping that you will like it," Zhong Zheng said.


    "Oh?" Xiao Wang''s frown deepened, unsure of what Shui Jing was up to.


    Zhong Zheng flipped his hand, and arge box appeared.


    Seeing the box, both Xiao Yuanfeng and Xiao Wang frowned slightly.


    "What is this?" Xiao Wang asked.


    "General Xiao should open it himself. Perhaps it will be an unexpected surprise!" Zhong Zheng said with a smile.


    Xiao Yuanfeng took the box and handed it to Xiao Wang.


    Xiao Wang gently opened the box. There was no magical fluctuation within, only a pink garment.


    Xiao Wang frowned as he took out the pink garment and gently unfolded it. It was a pink dress, a woman''s dress, with a very beautiful design that any woman would want to try on.


    Xiao Yuanfeng''s eyes were filled with confusion, but Xiao Wang''s face suddenly changed, a sh of anger crossing his eyes.


    Seeing the sh of anger in Xiao Wang''s eyes, Zhong Zheng smiled slightly. Even he would be enraged upon seeing such a dress.


    "What does Shui Jing mean by this?" Xiao Yuanfeng asked, frowning.


    Looking at Xiao Yuanfeng, Zhong Zheng smiled slightly and said, "Mymander said that General Xiao has declined two hundred challenges over the past ten years, never daring to face them. Such bravery is akin to that of a woman. Since General Xiao prefers to stay in the city like a woman, mymander has thoughtfully selected a beautiful red dress for General Xiao, hoping you will appreciate his kind gesture. He also requests that I witness General Xiao wearing it to honor mymander''s heartfelt intentions."


    "What did you say?" Xiao Yuanfeng suddenly roared in anger.


    This was too much. Shui Jing had gone too far. He had insulted his foster father by calling him a woman and then sent a woman''s dress to humiliate him? This was intolerable!


    Xiao Yuanfeng shouted angrily and drew his weapon.


    The furious shout from the central hall immediately caught the attention of numerous officers. Fearing an assassination attempt on theirmander, arge group of officers quickly surrounded the scene.


    Xiao Yuanfeng red at Zhong Zheng, his sword drawn, and a powerful aura pressed towards Zhong Zheng.


    However, Zhong Zheng remained calm, seemingly unaware of Xiao Yuanfeng''s killing intent. He continued to look at Xiao Wang with a serene expression.


    "Stand down!" Xiao Wangmanded sternly.


    "Father!" Xiao Yuanfeng''s face was red with shame and anger.


    "Two armies at war do not harm messengers. Sheathe your sword!" Xiao Wang ordered.


    "Sigh!" Xiao Yuanfeng let out a reluctant sigh and reluctantly sheathed his sword.


    Zhong Zheng smiled at Xiao Wang.


    As Xiao Wang looked at Zhong Zheng, it was as if he was seeing Shui Jing through him, with Shui Jing standing there, waving his feather fan.


    Indeed, a messenger represents themander.


    Now, Shui Jing was using humiliation to test Xiao Wang. Would Xiao Wang wear the dress or not?


    Shui Jing aimed to infuriate Xiao Wang, the angrier the better. If Xiao Wang didn''t wear the dress, it would still achieve Shui Jing''s goal, showing that the usually imperturbable Xiao Wang had finally been provoked and revealed a w.


    But would Xiao Wang wear it?


    Xiao Yuanfeng red angrily at Zhong Zheng, and the surrounding officers, understanding the situation, looked anxiously at Xiao Wang.


    "A pink dress? Heh, Yuanfeng, help me change," Xiao Wang said with a smile.


    "Father��!" Xiao Yuanfeng cried out in disbelief.


    "Commander��!" The officers eximed in shock.


    "Help me change!" Xiao Wang red at Xiao Yuanfeng.


    "Father! Yes!" Xiao Yuanfeng took the pink dress, tears of humiliation welling up in his eyes.


    The dress was very loose. Xiao Yuanfeng slowly helped his foster father put it on. Xiao Wang''s expression remained unchanged, while Xiao Yuanfeng gritted his teeth, trying to hold back his tears of shame.


    "Commander��!" All the officers knelt, feeling the humiliation of theirmander as their own, their tears flowing uncontrobly.


    Once Xiao Wang was fully dressed in the pink woman''s dress, all the officers were sobbing. Xiao Wang walked up to Zhong Zheng, circled around him twice, and said, "Go back and thank yourmander for me."


    Zhong Zheng frowned slightly at Xiao Wang but finally nodded heavily. "I will inform mymander."


    Zhong Zheng exited the hall. As he left, all eyes except Xiao Wang''s were filled with fierce anger, as if they wanted to tear Zhong Zheng apart.


    After Zhong Zheng left, Xiao Wang took a deep breath.


    "Alright, you may all leave," Xiao Wang said.


    "Yes!" The officers, with tears of humiliation, retreated.


    "Father!" Xiao Yuanfeng knelt, feeling humiliated.


    Gently, Xiao Wang removed the pink dress and carefully ced it back in the box.


    "Father, why didn''t you let me kill him? That scoundrel!" Xiao Yuanfeng said, both ashamed and angry.


    "A true man can bend and stretch. It''s just a dress!" Xiao Wang said, but his tone carried a hint of anger.


    "But, but this will affect your prestige, Father..." Xiao Yuanfeng said, worried and ashamed.


    "Prestige? Heh, just now, when I was humiliated, did you see how furious our officers were? I should thank Shui Jing for this. Such shame and anger will make our troops exceptionally brave and unstoppable when we attack Feather Fan City. Even Zhao Suoxiang''s army won''t be able to match us!" Xiao Wang said.


    "Father, are you preparing to move against Feather Fan City?" Xiao Yuanfeng''s previous shame was reced by excitement.


    "Not yet. I''ve been waiting for ten years, waiting for this opportunity. Once it arrives, our army will take Feather Fan City in one fell swoop. Ten years of hardship will finally pay off," Xiao Wang said firmly.


    "Yes!" Xiao Yuanfeng eximed excitedly.


    Zhong Zheng returned to Feather Fan City.


    In the City Lord''s Mansion, although Mr. Shui Jing was themander, Zhong Shan himself was currently present.


    Zhong Zheng recounted everything he had witnessed in Xiao Wang''s hall to everyone.


    "Xiao Wang can really keep hisposure?" Zhao Suoxiang frowned.


    "Keep hisposure? With His Majesty''s gift, how could Xiao Wang remain calm? He may appear calm, but inside, he''s undoubtedly raging with fury," Shui Jing said, waving his feather fan with a smile.


    "But what if Xiao Wang doesn''t take the bait?" Zhao Suoxiang frowned.


    "Indeed, Xiao Wang may be furious, but he is very patient. Even in the face of extreme anger, he will stay calm and not lose his judgment," Zhong Zheng said, frowning.


    "His Majesty''s strategies are always interconnected; this won''t be the end," Shui Jing said, looking at Zhong Shan.


    Everyone turned to look at Zhong Shan.


    "Ten years. Ten years should be enough to wear down Xiao Wang''s sharpness. I came from the capital just for this moment," Zhong Shan said, nodding.


    "Your Majesty, what is the next step?" Shui Jing asked.


    "Do you know what Mr. Corpse has been doing all these years?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    Everyone thought for a moment, and Shui Jing''s eyes suddenly lit up.


    "Your Majesty, do you mean the Yin Corpse Imperial Dynasty neighboring Feather Fan City?" Shui Jing immediately guessed.


    "Father, has Mr. Corpse taken the Yin Corpse Imperial Dynasty?" Zhong Zheng asked, surprised.


    "No wonder Mr. Yi Yan never allowed us to intervene with the Yin Corpse Imperial Dynasty. Your Majesty had long nned this! But, Your Majesty, the Yin Corpse Imperial Dynasty borders us, not the Tianmai Imperial Dynasty, and it''s far from Dragon yer City," Zhao Suoxiang said, puzzled.


    "The Yin Corpse Imperial Dynasty is about to move and attack several cities behind Feather Fan City," Shui Jing guessed.


    "The Yin Corpse Imperial Dynasty attacking our rear?" Zhao Suoxiang raised an eyebrow.


    Three monthster, in Dragon yer City, in the City Lord''s Mansion.


    "Father, it has begun. The Yin Corpse Imperial Dynasty received our letter and has started mobilizing. They are attacking the nearby cities!" Xiao Yuanfeng rushed into the hall, full of excitement.


    "Good!" Xiao Wang''s eyes shed with determination.


    "Father, when do we move on Feather Fan City? The soldiers'' shame and anger are growing stronger," Xiao Yuanfeng said eagerly.


    "Not yet. Wait a bit longer," Xiao Wang said sternly.


    "But...!" Xiao Yuanfeng frowned.


    "Be patient, be patient. The more critical the moment, the more we must remain calm. We can''t afford to be reckless," Xiao Wang said sternly.


    "Yes!" Xiao Yuanfeng nodded.


    "Increase the number of scouts, double them, no, triple them. Keep scouting," Xiao Wangmanded.


    "Yes!"

 Chapter 730: Zhong Shan Manipulates His Opponents

    <h4>Chapter 730: Zhong Shan Maniptes His Opponents</h4>


    Three monthster, in the main hall of the City Lord''s Mansion in Dragon yer City.


    "Father, Zhao Suoxiang has led the Iron Spear Battalion to the rear to confront the Yin Corpse Imperial Dynasty. They have left Feather Fan City!" Xiao Yuanfeng burst into the hall with excitement.


    Inside the hall, Xiao Wang sat at themand table, with arge number of generals standing on either side.


    Hearing this news, the generals all seemed eager, as if they wanted to lead their troops immediately.


    "Commander, I volunteer to be the vanguard to attack Feather Fan City!" one of the generals said.


    "I am also willing to go!" another general shouted.


    Six months of humiliation had left the generals of the Tianmai Imperial Dynasty seething with a desire for revenge, constantly thinking about reiming their honor.


    "Father, give the order!" Xiao Yuanfeng urged.


    Xiao Wang lightly tapped themand table, his brow furrowing.


    "Wait a bit longer. Be cautious of any trickery," Xiao Wang said solemnly.


    "Father, what are we still waiting for?" Xiao Yuanfeng asked anxiously.


    "We wait for the final wave of scouts to return," Xiao Wang said firmly.


    A monthter, in the same hall.


    Everyone was waiting, and Xiao Wang sat at themand table, with a man in in clothes standing before him.


    "What did you find?" Xiao Wang asked.


    "I saw it. Three nights ago, at the third watch, ten people in ck robes quietly left through the south gate. When they showed their tokens at the gate, the gatekeeper immediately knelt, but one of the ck-robed figures stopped him. They left quietly," the in-clothed scout reported.


    "They left, good!" Xiao Wang said with a hint of excitement.


    "Did you see who they were?" Xiao Yuanfeng asked.


    "No, I couldn''t see their faces," the scout replied.


    "Not seeing them is even better!" Xiao Wang said, growing more confident.


    "Father, who were they?" Xiao Yuanfeng asked, puzzled.


    The generals also looked at Xiao Wang.


    "It was Mr. Shui Jing. It has to be him!" Xiao Wang said confidently.


    "Shui Jing? But his banner is still flying on the city walls," a general said.


    "That''s just for show," Xiao Wang sneered.


    "But Father, could Shui Jing be deceiving us? Zhao Suoxiang has already left," Xiao Yuanfeng said, still doubtful.


    "No, Zhao Suoxiang can''t handle this alone."


    "Oh?"


    "This time, it''s not just the Yin Corpse Imperial Dynasty. I''ve also contacted another imperial dynasty. Zhao Suoxiang might handle one, but two? Impossible in a short time. If Shui Jing doesn''t go, several of their cities will fall. If those cities are lost, Feather Fan City can''t be defended. So Shui Jing must leave!" Xiao Wang said with absolute certainty.


    Though not fully understanding, the generals sensed something significant. Suddenly, all the generals knelt.


    "We volunteer to be the vanguard and capture Feather Fan City!" the generals shouted in unison.


    Xiao Yuanfeng was also excited. Finally, they could avenge the humiliation of ten years. Ten years of being a turtle, now they would transform into a dragon and rise.


    "Prepare the troops. In two hours, take the ''woman''s dress'' sent by Shui Jing as a symbol, and follow me to attack the city!" Xiao Wangmanded proudly.


    "Roar!" The generals let out an excited roar.


    Ten dayster.


    "Boom!"


    The gate of Feather Fan City was broken open.


    "Kill!"


    The generals of the Tianmai Imperial Dynasty finally breached Feather Fan City, charging into the city.


    Once inside, the first task was to seize strategic locations.


    Xiao Wang, apanied by several generals, also entered the city. Seeing Feather Fan City fall, everyone breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Damn it, even without Shui Jing and Zhao Suoxiang, this city was still hard to take!" a general cursed.


    "Because it''s Shui Jing''s city. Even after leaving, he made thorough arrangements," Xiao Yuanfengmented.


    "Feather Fan City, we''ve finally taken Feather Fan City!" Xiao Wang exhaled deeply.


    "Shui Jing? He''s not so great after all. I wonder what his expression will be when he returns to see ourmand g flying over Feather Fan City?"


    "Hahaha...!" The generalsughed excitedly.


    Command g? Xiao Wang''s pupils contracted.


    "No, we''ve been tricked! Retreat quickly!" Xiao Wang suddenly shouted.


    "Father, what do you mean we''ve been tricked?" Xiao Yuanfeng asked, confused.


    "Kill!"


    Suddenly, the sound of a fierce battle cry erupted outside the city.


    "Commander, something''s wrong! At the four main gates,rge formations have appeared, preventing us from leaving! But outsiders cane in," a scout reported in panic.


    "Commander, something''s wrong! A g bearing the character ''Zhao'' has appeared outside the city!" another scout shouted.


    "Commander, something''s wrong! The City Lord''s Mansion has activated the seals on the four city towers, preventing anyone from getting onto the walls."


    The sudden flood of bad news caused panic among everyone.


    Realizing they were caught in a trap, Xiao Wang immediately said, "Follow me!"


    "Roar!"


    The troops quickly gathered and followed Xiao Wang towards the City Lord''s Mansion. As they reached the floating ind below the mansion, they found it surrounded by arge army. Zhao Suoxiang''s forces swiftly charged in from outside the city, coordinating with the inner troops to encircle Xiao Wang''s army.


    The formation around the floating ind dissipated, allowing those outside to see inside.


    Under the floating ind, Xiao Wang gave a bitter smile as he looked up. Seeing the group above, he realized he had fallen into a meticulously nned trap. Such a cunning strategy had even fooled him.


    Above the floating ind, Mr. Shui Jing stood, waving his feather fan, with a group of officials behind him. Standing at the forefront was Zhong Shan, d in ck robes.


    Zhong Shan? So it was Zhong Shan all along?


    The morale of the two armies was drastically different. Xiao Wang''s army had a look of tragic determination, while Zhong Shan''s army was filled with excitement. The oue was clear: victory had been decided.


    The two leaders, Xiao Wang and Zhong Shan, stared at each other across the distance.


    After a moment of silence, the two armies, though facing off, refrained from attacking each other, waiting for orders from theirmanders.


    Xiao Wang red at Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan looked back at Xiao Wang. In many ways, their lives had been simr, but their fortunes had led them to vastly different fates.


    Finally, Zhong Shan spoke, his voice carrying across the battlefield.


    "Xiao Wang, you have fought bravely and skillfully. Your reputation is well deserved."


    Xiao Wang responded, his voice filled with resignation and respect. "Zhong Shan, your strategies are unparalleled. I see now why you have achieved such great sess."


    "Join me, Xiao Wang. Together, we can achieve even greater things. There is no need for further bloodshed," Zhong Shan offered, his eyes locking onto Xiao Wang''s.


    Xiao Wang paused, considering the offer. He knew that continuing to fight would only lead to more loss and suffering for his men.


    After a moment, Xiao Wang nodded. "Very well, Zhong Shan. I will join you, but only if you promise to treat my men with the respect they deserve."


    Zhong Shan smiled. "You have my word, Xiao Wang. Together, we will build an even greater empire."


    The two leaders nodded to each other, a new alliance formed amidst the ruins of Feather Fan City.


    Although Xiao Wang had praised Zhong Shan in front of Tian Xiaozi, he harbored a simr pride, a pride that bowed to no one. Deep down, he did not believe he was inferior to Zhong Shan. Long ago, Xiao Wang had yearned to face Zhong Shan in battle and utterly defeat him. But now...


    "Zhong Shan!" Xiao Wang called out in a deep voice.


    "Xiao Wang!" Zhong Shan replied.


    "To defeat me, would you really sacrifice Feather Fan City and even the twenty-one cities behind it?" Xiao Wang asked, frowning.


    "Oh? What makes you think that?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Shui Jing didn''t go to the front lines, and Zhao Suoxiang''s army was hiding in the mountains nearby. Aren''t you concerned about the two attacking imperial dynasties?" Xiao Wang asked, puzzled.


    "Ten years. Great Zhen has countless capable people. Do you think we''ve been idle here for ten years?" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Xiao Wang raised an eyebrow, seemingly realizing something.


    "The Yin Corpse Imperial Dynasty has been under my control for five years," Zhong Shan revealed.


    Xiao Wang''s pupils constricted.


    "So it was all a y, a show for me. Zhao Suoxiang didn''t need to go to the front lines. The other attacking dynasty was handled by the Yin Corpse Imperial Dynasty. Hahaha, what a brilliant, subtle n. I didn''t see it at all. Hahaha!" Xiao Wangughed with a mix of disbelief andplexity.


    "The ten-year wait in Feather Fan City has made you impatient," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    Xiao Wang suddenly stared at Zhong Shan, a look of shock shing in his eyes. At that moment, Xiao Wang finally saw the true horror of Zhong Shan. Ten years, this n had waited so long, just to wait for him to be impatient? Just to wait for that brief moment of impatience?


    Xiao Wang was a self-reflective person, aware that everyone has various emotions. However, a wise person can periodically cleanse themselves of negative emotions. But in that brief moment of impatience, before he could clear it, Zhong Shan had seized the opportunity, sending the humiliating dress and triggering Xiao Wang''splete outburst of impatience, clouding his judgment for a brief moment.


    That briefpse led to a fatal mistake. A mistake from which there was no return! Zhong Shan was terrifying. Being his opponent was horrifying. On the battlefield, he could manipte the enemymander''s psyche. If he could control his opponent, how could he not win? It was terrifying! In an instant, a seed of "Zhong Shan is unbeatable" was nted in Xiao Wang''s heart, a seed of "never be enemies with Zhong Shan."


    Xiao Wang sheathed his sword and took a long breath, suddenly feeling much more fatigued.


    "The victor bes the king, the loser the bandit. I surrender, but I hope you will spare my brothers," Xiao Wang said, pointing to the generals behind him.


    "Commander��!" The generals knelt together, tears streaming down their faces.


    "Father, let''s fight! Let''s fight!" Xiao Yuanfeng shouted tragically.


    "Let''s fight��!"


    The generals echoed his cry with a tragic shout.


    "Silence!" Xiao Wang roared.


    The voices stopped, but the tears in their eyes continued to flow.


    Silencing his army, Xiao Wang looked up at Zhong Shan, awaiting his decision.


    Zhong Shan looked at Xiao Wang, a hint of admiration in his eyes. He waved his hand.


    Zhao Suoxiang''s army quickly made an opening.


    "Xiao Yuanfeng, listen to mymand!" Xiao Wang ordered.


    "Father!" Xiao Yuanfeng''s eyes shed with tragic determination.


    "Lead the army back to Dragon yer City!" Xiao Wangmanded.


    "Father��!"


    "Commander��!"


    The generals were reluctant to leave.


    "This is an order!" Xiao Wang said sternly.


    "Yes, sir!" Xiao Yuanfeng epted the order with unwillingness and sorrow.


    Xiao Yuanfeng vowed to hold Dragon yer City because only by holding it might he save his father.


    Under themand, the army slowly withdrew from Feather Fan City.

 Chapter 731: Hao Meili鈥檚 Revenge

    <h4>Chapter 731: Hao Meili��s Revenge</h4>


    "Boom!"


    The four main gates of Feather Fan City mmed shut. Under the leadership of several generals, the troops began cleaning up the aftermath and restoring the previous arrangements.


    Xiao Wang was left to await his fate.


    However, Zhong Shan did not bring Xiao Wang up to the floating ind. Xiao Wang looked up at Zhong Shan with a frown, puzzled by his intentions.


    He was already a prisoner, so what was Zhong Shan nning?


    "Guards, execute Xiao Wang on the spot!" Zhong Shan ordered abruptly.


    Zhong Shan''smand came too suddenly. Execute on the spot? Shui Jing, Zhao Suoxiang, Zhong Zheng, and others looked at Zhong Shan in surprise. Wasn''t the emperor nning to recruit Xiao Wang? Why the sudden execution after all this effort?


    Xiao Wang also felt a shiver run through him. The fearless facade he had maintained crumbled. Xiao Wang was no fool. He knew that Zhong Shan''s decision to let his subordinates go was a move to recruit him. So why the sudden execution order?


    Exhausted both physically and mentally, Xiao Wang suddenly felt a chilling sensation from head to toe. He realized that Zhong Shan had let his subordinates leave to avoid a desperatest stand, which would have caused significant losses. Now, by executing him, Zhong Shan could turn and deal with his subordinates easily.


    He wants to kill me?


    Xiao Wang believed that if Zhong Shan wanted him dead now, there was no chance of escape.


    In that instant, the seed of "never be enemies with Zhong Shan" that had been nted in Xiao Wang''s heart suddenly grew immensely. Zhong Shan''s figure loomedrge and overpowering, capable of crushing him like an ant.


    Understanding the situation, Xiao Wang''s mind epted his fate. He felt utterly defeated, recognizing Zhong Shan''s superiority. This realization changed Xiao Wang''s inner mindset, seeing himself below Zhong Shan, not just physically but also mentally and spiritually. He no longer harbored any thought of opposing Zhong Shan.


    Resigned to his fate, Xiao Wang took a deep breath, feeling a sudden weariness.


    "The victor bes the king, the loser the bandit. I surrender, but I hope you will spare my brothers," Xiao Wang said, pointing to the generals behind him.


    "Commander��!"


    The generals knelt together, tears streaming down their faces.


    "Father, let''s fight! Let''s fight!" Xiao Yuanfeng shouted tragically.


    "Let''s fight��!"


    The generals echoed his cry with a tragic shout.


    "Silence!" Xiao Wang roared.


    The voices stopped, but the tears in their eyes continued to flow.


    Silencing his army, Xiao Wang looked up at Zhong Shan, awaiting his decision.


    Zhong Shan looked at Xiao Wang, a hint of admiration in his eyes. He waved his hand.


    Zhao Suoxiang''s army quickly made an opening.


    "Xiao Yuanfeng, listen to mymand!" Xiao Wang ordered.


    "Father!" Xiao Yuanfeng''s eyes shed with tragic determination.


    "Lead the army back to Dragon yer City!" Xiao Wangmanded.


    "Father��!"


    "Commander��!"


    The generals were reluctant to leave.


    "This is an order!" Xiao Wang said sternly.


    "Yes, sir!" Xiao Yuanfeng epted the order with unwillingness and sorrow.


    Xiao Yuanfeng vowed to hold Dragon yer City because only by holding it might he save his father.


    Under themand, the army slowly withdrew from Feather Fan City.


    Just then, a sudden shout came from the sky.


    "Wait!"


    Everyone looked up to see three figures standing in mid-air.


    Leading them was a man in white robes, the head of the Tian family, Tian Xiaozi. The other two were also known to Zhong Shan��two heavenly experts from the Tian family who had opposed him in the past.


    Three heavenly experts had suddenly descended.


    "Tian Xiaozi?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Zhong Shan, I didn''t expect it to be you," Tian Xiaozi said with a faint smile.


    "Master Tian, what brings you here uninvited?" Zhong Shan asked coldly.


    Tian Xiaozi took a deep look at Zhong Shan and then nced at the disheveled Xiao Wang below.


    "Originally, I shouldn''t interfere in a war between dynasties, but I hope you''ll do me a favor and let me take Xiao Wang. If you need anything in return, just let me know," Tian Xiaozi said, rather presumptuously.


    Tian Xiaozi''s words angered everyone. Ten years of preparation had led to this moment, and now he wanted to take Xiao Wang just like that?


    Zhao Suoxiang''s eyes red with anger. He raised his spear, ready to attack Tian Xiaozi at Zhong Shan''smand.


    Tian Xiaozi seemed to rely on his three heavenly experts as enough qualification to make such a request. His politeness towards Zhong Shan was merely a formality.


    Looking at Tian Xiaozi, then at Xiao Wang, Zhong Shan smiled faintly. "If Master Tian wants him, then take him."


    Everyone was shocked by Zhong Shan''s words. Tian Xiaozi himself was taken aback, but quickly regained hisposure.


    "Thank you, Zhong Shan. You have my gratitude," Tian Xiaozi said, nodding. He gestured to his men, and they descended to take Xiao Wang.


    As Tian Xiaozi''s men approached, Zhong Shan called out, "But remember, Xiao Wang''s fate is now in your hands, Tian Xiaozi. If he returns to oppose me, don''t me me for being ruthless."


    Tian Xiaozi paused, looking back at Zhong Shan. "Understood, Zhong Shan."


    With that, Tian Xiaozi and his men took Xiao Wang and left.


    Zhong Shan watched them go, his expression unreadable. Then he turned to his generals. "Prepare for the next phase. This isn''t over yet."


    The generals nodded, still processing the surprising turn of events. Zhong Shan''s strategy was alwaysyered, and they knew this was just another step in his intricate ns.


    Zhong Shan''s sudden generosity made Tian Xiaozi''s pupils contract in surprise, leaving him momentarily stunned.


    "You don''t want anything? A city? One, ten, or even thirty, you can name your price!" Tian Xiaozi said in a serious tone.


    The generals were visibly excited by this proposition.


    "No need, take him away," Zhong Shan said, waving his hand dismissively.


    The generals looked disappointed, but none dared to question their emperor''s decision.


    After giving Zhong Shan a long, deep look, Tian Xiaozi nodded. One of the heavenly experts grabbed Xiao Wang, and the four of them disappeared from sight.


    "Father, this..." Zhong Zheng frowned slightly.


    "The objective has been achieved. While Xiao Wang was subdued, he couldn''t be fully recruited," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Why? We had three heavenly experts to contend with, it wasn''t impossible," Zhong Zheng didn''t understand.


    "Contend? We could do more than contend. I could have kept them here easily. But the situation isplex. In time, you''ll understand. For now, Xiao Wang''s best ce is to return. What needed to be done is done. When the timees, Xiao Wang will naturally be part of Great Zhen," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "But Your Majesty, Tian Xiaozi was willing to trade thirty cities. Why refuse?" Zhao Suoxiang asked, puzzled.


    "It wasn''t an offer for us; it was for Xiao Wang. How could His Majesty trade such amander for thirty cities?" Shui Jing said, shaking his feather fan.


    "Indeed. Feather Fan City will no longer be a point of contention for Xiao Wang after this. Rest and prepare to take other cities," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" Shui Jing and Zhao Suoxiang responded immediately.


    Zhong Shan returned to the capital, Changjing.


    In Dragon yer City, the generals eagerly weed Xiao Wang back. Xiao Yuanfeng was the happiest, overjoyed at his father''s return.


    After sending everyone away, Xiao Wang and Tian Xiaozi entered the main hall.


    "Master, I failed you. I let you down," Xiao Wang said, bowing in apology.


    "Forget it, everyone makes mistakes. Take this as a lesson," Tian Xiaozi said,forting him.


    "Yes," Xiao Wang nodded with a sigh.


    "Don''t me yourself too much. Zhong Shan is indeed a formidable opponent. But don''t worry, I have a n to deal with him," Tian Xiaozi said solemnly.


    "Oh?"


    "This n still needs some refinement, but once it''s ready, Great Zhen will be leaderless, the Eternal World will be affected, and the Five Colors Imperial Dynasty will be severely damaged. It will be a triple victory. Then, you''ll have your moment to shine, and we''ll take the south, establishing a north-south standoff," Tian Xiaozi''s eyes gleamed with determination.


    "Yes!" Xiao Wang responded.


    Back in Changjing.


    "Your Majesty, a visitor iming to be an old acquaintance requests to see you," a guard reported respectfully.


    "Oh? Who?" Zhong Shan asked, curious.


    "I asked, but she wouldn''t say," the guard replied.


    "Oh?"


    "Several guards tried to stop her, but they were knocked unconscious instantly. It''s very mysterious," the guard added.


    "Mysterious?" Zhong Shan''s brows furrowed.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. Not daring to confront her, we led her to the East Dragon Pavilion and asked her to wait there for your return," the guard exined.


    "What does she look like?" Zhong Shan asked.


    The guard immediately used a spell to project the image of a girl, looking extremely haggard.


    "Hao Meili?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    The guard was taken aback. Hao Meili? The emperor had never praised anyone like this before. Could it be that the emperor had a soft spot for this type of woman?


    "Alright, you can leave now," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "Yes, sir!" The guard quickly retreated.


    Zhong Shan headed straight towards the East Dragon Pavilion. Hao Meili? Why was she here? Where was her master, Xi Du Huang? And why did she suddenly look so haggard?


    Zhong Shan soon arrived at the small courtyard of the East Dragon Pavilion. The main hall door was ajar, and in a small corner of the room, Hao Meili was curled up, hugging a colorful robe, looking sorrowful.


    "Who''s there?" Hao Meili called out in a frightened voice.


    She saw Zhong Shan walking in.


    "Zhong Shan, Zhong Shan!" Hao Meili''s eyes filled with tears.


    She put away Xi Du Huang''s colorful robe and ran over.


    Covered in dirt, she threw herself into Zhong Shan''s arms, sobbing uncontrobly.


    Zhong Shan was caught off guard by Hao Meili''s sudden reaction. He gently patted her back, trying to soothe her.


    After crying for a while, she seemed to have vented a lot of her emotions, and her sobs grew quieter.


    "What happened? What''s going on? Where is Xi Du Huang?" Zhong Shan asked softly.


    "Master, my master was murdered!" Hao Meili''s tears started flowing again.


    Master? Hao Meili had always called Xi Du Huang ''old man,'' no matter how much he insisted she call him ''master.'' She had called him ''old man'' all her life. But now, in death, she called him ''master''?


    Zhong Shan sighed slightly. Despite Hao Meili''s rebellious nature, her core was very principled. Like Xi Du Huang, she always called him ''old man,'' but deep down, she recognized him as a close family member. Hence, her emotional outburst. Underneath her proud exterior was a heart full of insecurity.


    "What happened? Who did this?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It was the Eternal World. The people from the Eternal World killed my master. Zhong Shan, you have to destroy the Eternal World for me. I want that old bastard to be torn to pieces. Zhong Shan, you have to kill him for me!" Hao Meili pushed Zhong Shan away, her face filled with fury.


    "The Eternal World?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "What? You don''t want to help me?" Hao Meili red at Zhong Shan, as if he would be her enemy if he refused.


    Her capricious nature would be unbearable for most people.


    "At least tell me what happened. What exactly happened?" Zhong Shan said.


    "So, you''re saying you''ll help me get revenge?" Hao Meili''s expression changed from anger to surprise.


    "First, clean yourself up, get some rest, and when you''re calm, tell me everything in detail," Zhong Shan said.


    "No, I don''t want to rest. I want revenge. You have to avenge my master. They killed my master. I want them torn to pieces. I want their souls tortured thousands of times over. I want them to suffer a fate worse than death!" Hao Meili screamed.


    "Alright then, tell me what happened. Why couldn''t you curse them? Why did Xi Du Huang die? How did you provoke the Eternal World?" Zhong Shan asked, nodding.

 Chapter 732: The Mysterious Ten Thousand Evil Body

    <h4>Chapter 732: The Mysterious Ten Thousand Evil Body</h4>


    "Alright, then tell me everything. Why couldn''t you curse him? Why did Xi Du Huang die? How did you get involved with the Eternal World?" Zhong Shan nodded, urging Hao Meili to exin.


    Hao Meili, hearing Zhong Shan''s questions, was immediately plunged into painful memories, and her face turned vicious.


    "His name is the Curse Demon Master. He knows curse techniques. He killed my master. I want him dead!" Hao Meili''s face was filled with deep-seated hatred.


    "The Curse Demon Master? What kind of person is he?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I don''t know. He uses curse techniques and looks very demonic and sinister," Hao Meili recalled.


    "Alright, start from the beginning. Tell me in detail how you got involved with the Eternal World," Zhong Shan said after some thought.


    "Originally, my master and I were traveling around. We met someone from the Eternal World and heard from them about eleven Immortal Steles," Hao Meili began.


    "Immortal Steles? The remaining twenty-two are supposed to be in the Taishui Dynasty and the Longevity Realm, aren''t they?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "I thought so too, but when I saw the magical projection that person showed us, I had to believe it. Eleven Immortal Steles had somehow ended up in the Eternal World, with that Curse Demon Master," Hao Meili exined.


    "Oh?"


    "My master had reached the Emperor Extreme Realm, and I had reached the Royal Extreme Realm. Even though I''m at the Royal Extreme Realm, even the Heavenly Extreme Realm can''t deal with me now. My curse mes have be stronger and stronger. Plus, with the ''Heavenly Evil Cursing Technique'' you gave mest time, we thought we could handle the Eternal World. So we went there," Hao Meili said, recalling the painful memories.


    "And then?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Two years ago, in a deep mountain area, there were many buildings. Some cultivators were flying around the buildings.


    At the center of the buildings was thergest hall, with a que that read "Eternal World."


    On that day, two figures suddenly flew in from outside the mountains. One was a very beautiful girl in a bright yellow long dress, and the other was an elderly man in colorful, gaudy clothes with deep eyeliner, looking very demonic.


    It was Hao Meili and Xi Du Huang!


    "We''re here!" Xi Du Huang smiled faintly.


    "Old man, this Eternal World isn''t that impressive," Hao Meili remarked as she looked at the mountains.


    "True sacred ces often have hidden depths. Let''s go down," Xi Du Huang said, smiling lovingly.


    The two of them flew towards the mountain buildings.


    "Stop! Who are you?" A blue-robed sword cultivator suddenly flew up to block their path.


    "I''m Wen Zong, and Xi Du Huang requests to see the Curse Demon Master of the Longevity Realm!" Xi Du Huang said.


    "Wen Zong? Never heard of it. You want to see the Curse Demon Master? What? The Curse Demon Master?" The blue-robed sword cultivator, initially arrogant, changed his expression drastically upon hearing the name Curse Demon Master.


    It seemed that even among these sword cultivators, the Curse Demon Master was a figure of immense dread.


    "What is it?" Xi Du Huang frowned.


    "Get going!" Hao Meili shouted.


    The blue-robed sword cultivator frowned repeatedly, looking at the two of them. "What do you want?"


    "Do we need to tell you everything? Just inform the Curse Demon Master!" Hao Meili said impatiently.


    Xi Du Huang, seeing Hao Meili''s impatience, smiled faintly. Xi Du Huang was inherently a mboyant person, only slightly restrained by the name of the Eternal World. He adored Hao Meili and never opposed her. No matter how arrogant she was, it only made her more appealing to him.


    "Watch your attitude. Do you know where you are?" The blue-robed sword cultivator''s expression turned cold.


    "You better not provoke me. You can''t handle it!" Hao Meili said disdainfully.


    "I can''t handle it? Who do you think you are, you... why do I feel dizzy?"


    The blue-robed sword cultivator, who had been standing fine moments ago, suddenly swayed and fell from the clouds.


    "Senior Brother, what''s wrong with you?"


    Another man flew over quickly, catching the falling blue-robed sword cultivator just in time. If not for this timely intervention, the blue-robed sword cultivator might have been the first sword cultivator to die from dizziness and fall.


    This sudden change drew the attention of many cultivators in the area.


    "Someone''s causing trouble!" a person shouted, and immediately arge group gathered, surrounding Xi Du Huang and Hao Meili with hostile expressions.


    "Go notify the Curse Demon Master toe see me. Don''t make me angry!" Hao Meili shouted.


    "Dare to cause trouble in the Eternal World? Brothers, let''s capture them and hand them over to the Law Enforcement Hall for punishment!" a man in red shouted.


    "Hmph!"


    Xi Du Huang snorted coldly.


    Immediately, all the strong cultivators felt dizzy and fell to the ground.


    A few quick-witted ones rushed into the main hall of the Eternal World.


    "You, you dare to poison us?" the red-robed man growled.


    "I''m only sparing your lives for now to avoid making enemies with the Eternal World. If you know what''s good for you, stay quiet and recite your spells without thinking about us," Xi Du Huang said.


    "You��!"


    The red-robed man was furious. How could someone poison them and then im to be saving their lives? He red at Xi Du Huang, thoughts of revenge filling his mind.


    Xi Du Huang met his re with a cold, dismissive look, as if not even bothering to consider him an enemy. Frustrated, the red-robed man turned his gaze to the indifferent Hao Meili.


    Staring at Hao Meili, the red-robed man hardened his resolve. Once the masteres out, I''ll make sure you suffer.


    "Poof!"


    To his shock, the red-robed man suddenly coughed up blood and copsed, looking like he was on the brink of death.


    "Senior Brother!" the other cultivators shouted in rm.


    "Old demon, how dare you harm us?" several poisoned and fallen cultivators shouted angrily.


    "It''s not the old man''s fault. He brought it on himself," Hao Meili said dismissively.


    Everyone''s eyes turned to Hao Meili, their expressions filled with anger.


    "Witch!"


    "Poof!"


    Everyone who cursed Hao Meili or harbored ill thoughts towards her spat blood and copsed, looking pitiful.


    It was too bizarre! Just cursing her once caused such severe injury. It was utterly unreasonable! Who was this witch? The more they thought about it, the more they hated her.


    "Poof!"


    A few fearless ones continued to curse Hao Meili, only to end up spitting blood and fainting.


    Xi Du Huang watched this scene with a helpless expression. He had intended to save them, but they were too ungrateful. Hao Meili was no ordinary person. With the Ten Thousand Evil Body, even Heaven itself had to yield to her terrifying constitution. How dare they offend her?


    Hao Meili looked disdainfully at the crowd, while Xi Du Huang remained silent.


    At this moment, one of the first people who had rushed into the Eternal World peeked outside.


    Seeing the ground littered with copsed cultivators, some unconscious and others severely injured and spitting blood, this person immediately shrank back into the Eternal World, terrified.


    "Whoosh!"


    Three figures suddenly emerged from the Eternal World.


    Leading them was Ye Qingcheng, d in white with blue hair, carrying a blood-red Immortal ying Sword on his back. The two individuals behind him also seemed to hold significant positions within the Eternal World.


    Ye Qingcheng surveyed the scene, noticing the fallen members of the Eternal World scattered on the ground. His brow furrowed as the three of them turned their gaze toward Hao Meili and Xi Du Huang.


    "Who are you?" Ye Qingcheng asked with a frown.


    "Wenzong Sect Master, Xi Du Huang, at your service, Lord Ye! This is my disciple, Hao Meili," Xi Du Huang introduced.


    "Wenzong? People from the Wenzong of the Yang Realm? Weren''t they rumored to have been wiped out fifty thousand years ago?" Ye Qingcheng''s eyebrow arched.


    "If Lord Ye knows it''s a rumor, you should understand that it''s just a ''rumor,''" Xi Du Huang replied with a smile.


    "Then what is the meaning of this?" Ye Qingcheng asked coldly.


    "I was trying to save them, but unfortunately, they were too impatient," Xi Du Huang shook his head with a sigh.


    Ye Qingcheng''s eyes turned cold, thinking Xi Du Huang was mocking the Eternal World. A fierce glint shed in his eyes. As he directed his fierce gaze towards Hao Meili:


    "Boom!"


    Ye Qingcheng''s ''Heaven'' suddenly appeared, with blood-red skies, thunder, and lightning. He instinctively put up a defense. Though there was no attack, it felt as if he had almost been harmed.


    "Boom! Boom!"


    The two people behind him experienced the same, their own ''Heavens'' emerging to instinctively ward off external harm.


    The three were astonished to realize that the harm didn''te from the two before them, but from the heavens, from the very world itself. Heaven''s wrath? How could it be heaven''s wrath? What had just happened? Why was heaven''s wrath triggered?


    All three, including Ye Qingcheng, suddenly broke out in a cold sweat, their hair standing on end as they looked at the two before them.


    First at Xi Du Huang, and then their gaze fixed on Hao Meili.


    "I advise you three, do not provoke my disciple. Not even in your hearts," Xi Du Huang said calmly.


    The three looked at Hao Meili, their expressions drastically changing. What was going on? How could this girl be so strange?


    "Ten Thousand Evil Body?" Ye Qingcheng suddenly thought of something.


    Hearing this title, the expressions of the two behind him changed, and they immediately averted their gazes, no longer daring to look at Hao Meili, fearing they might develop malicious thoughts toward her.


    "Blessed be the Celestial Venerable!" the two behind Ye Qingcheng chanted.


    Ye Qingcheng''s forehead broke out in a cold sweat. However, his eyes did not show fear.


    "What brings you two to the Eternal World?" Ye Qingcheng asked seriously.


    "We mean no harm. As long as you have no ill intentions, we can have a proper conversation. We wish to see the Curse Demon Master of the Eternal World," Xi Du Huang said.


    "The Curse Demon Master? Why do you wish to see the Curse Demon Master?" Ye Qingcheng''s face darkened.


    "Old man, stop wasting words with him! Ye, we are here to retrieve the ''Immortal Steles'' of my ancestors. I know they are in the Eternal World. Hand them over, and I will reward you," Hao Meili said arrogantly.

 Chapter 733: Master

    <h4>Chapter 733: Master</h4>


    "Old man, stop wasting time with him! Hey, Ye, we''re here to reim my ancestor''s ''Immortal Stele.'' I know it''s in your Eternal World. Give it to me, and I''ll reward you!" Hao Meili said arrogantly.


    "Immortal Stele? Your ancestor? Hao Tian?" Ye Qingcheng''s eyebrow arched.


    "So what?" Hao Meili replied.


    "Ten Thousand Evil Body? Immortal Stele?" Ye Qingcheng''s brow furrowed.


    "Go, inform the Supreme Elder, the Curse Demon Master! Ask him toe here!" Ye Qingcheng ordered with a frown.


    "Yes!" One of the men behind him nodded and went into the Eternal World.


    Not long after, a man wearing clothes even more mboyant than Xi Du Huang''s emerged. His eyes were slits, with long, fox-like corners, and his pupils were eerily cat-like. His face was very pale, as if covered in white powder.


    The moment Ye Qingcheng called him out, the man focused his gaze on Hao Meili.


    "Ten Thousand Evil Body? What a rare and absolute evil physique. It''s a pity the Ten Thousand Evil Body is abhorred and envied by the heavens, never living past a hundred years!" the effeminate-sounding man said.


    Just hearing his voice was incredibly unsettling.


    "Supreme Elder!" another person behind Ye Qingcheng called out.


    "Are you the Curse Demon Master?" Hao Meili asked.


    "No, you are clearly older than a hundred years. How have you lived past your lifespan?" the Curse Demon Master suddenly raised an eyebrow.


    "My age is none of your business!" Hao Meili said impatiently.


    "Supreme Elder, this matter dates back fifty thousand years! Fifty thousand years ago, there was a Ten Thousand Evil Body that broke through its constraints!" Ye Qingcheng said.


    "Oh?"


    "Fifty thousand years ago, the number one person in the world, using the Ten Thousand Evil Body, defeated all other heroes and founded the Wenzong Sect. Unfortunately, after leaving this world, the Wenzong Sect quickly declined without a sessor with the Ten Thousand Evil Body. It faded like a morning glory, disappearing from the world. This Hao Meili here is the sessor of Wenzong, with her ancestor''s experience, she evaded the life span catastrophe!" Ye Qingcheng said, staring intently at Xi Du Huang.


    Xi Du Huang smiled slightly. Indeed, his proudest achievement in life wasn''t poisoning countless people in the Yang Realm, nor creating the most potent poisons, nor significantly improving the sect''s techniques. It was finding another Ten Thousand Evil Body, a sessor who could restore Wenzong''s glory.


    "Interesting. This small world indeed has no shortage of talent. To break the fate of the Ten Thousand Evil Body, that''s no small feat!" the Curse Demon Master said, looking at Hao Meili with a wicked smile.


    "Now that you''re here, that''s good. Hand over the Immortal Stele!" Hao Meili said impatiently.


    "Immortal Stele?" the Curse Demon Master looked puzzled.


    "And why should I give it to you?" Ye Qingcheng asked with a smile.


    Ye Qingcheng wouldn''t confront Hao Meili head-on but that didn''t mean he couldn''t negotiate with her. With a Heavenly Extreme Realm protecting him, as long as it wasn''t too excessive, Heaven''s retribution couldn''t touch Ye Qingcheng.


    "I know you won''t give it up for nothing. Hand over the Immortal Stele, and I''ll kill any three people below the Heavenly Extreme Realm for you, or any one person at the Heavenly Extreme Realm," Hao Meili offered boldly.


    Ye Qingcheng''s eyebrow twitched, his eyes showing a hint of interest. The peculiar nature of the Ten Thousand Evil Body made Hao Meili invulnerable; she could entangle others until they died. Meanwhile, the Immortal Stele had remained a mystery for years, seemingly insignificant to the Eternal World.


    "Immortal Stele? Little girl, what''s inside the Immortal Stele?" the Curse Demon Master asked, his eyes narrowing.


    "None of your business!" Hao Meili red at him.


    However, the Curse Demon Master seemed unfazed.


    "Do you have other Immortal Steles on you?" the Curse Demon Master spected.


    "Hmph, are you going to give it to me or not?" Hao Meili asked impatiently, ring at him.


    "Supreme Elder! We''ve not been able to decipher the Immortal Stele''s secrets anyway. Perhaps it''s better if..." Ye Qingcheng transmitted his thoughts to the Curse Demon Master.


    The Curse Demon Master suddenly red at Ye Qingcheng, who raised an eyebrow.


    "Eternal World, aside from the boss, no one else canmand me. Don''t think that just because you''re the realm master, you can dictate my actions!" the Curse Demon Master retorted coldly.


    Despite being the realm master, Ye Qingcheng''s eyes turned cold at the Curse Demon Master''s scorn.


    "What? Do you dare to strike me?" the Curse Demon Master sneered.


    Staring coldly at the Curse Demon Master, Ye Qingcheng replied, "I call you Supreme Elder out of respect. The fact that you can''t be the realm master isn''t my fault. Hmph, since you''re so insistent, I''ll leave it to you. But let me remind you, I''m the realm master of the Eternal World. I won''t interfere with the Immortal Stele, you handle it yourself!"


    With that, Ye Qingcheng turned and flew back into the Eternal World. As the realm master, he naturally wouldn''t stay and bicker further.


    One of the two Heavenly Extreme Realm experts looked between the Curse Demon Master and Ye Qingcheng, then followed Ye Qingcheng. The other, a red-robed expert, respectfully stood behind the Curse Demon Master.


    Xi Du Huang frowned at the scene.


    "Alright, little girl, tell me, what''s the secret of the Immortal Stele?" the Curse Demon Master asked with a wicked smile, looking at Hao Meili.


    "You won''t give it to me?" Hao Meili said coldly.


    "What if I don''t? Today, if you don''t reveal the secret, you won''t leave here!" the Curse Demon Master sneered.


    "Ridiculous! You, a half-man, half-woman, think you can keep me here? Aren''t you afraid of heaven''s wrath?" Hao Meili retorted with a cold smile.


    "Boom!"


    Suddenly, a mass of illusory red mes burst into existence around Hao Meili, burning vividly. Hao Meili''s eyes gleamed with a wicked smile.


    "Boom!"


    Blue mes abruptly appeared around the Curse Demon Master, flickering wildly.


    "Boom!"


    The sky rumbled, and the red-robed Heavenly Extreme Realm expert''s ''Heaven'' filled with thunderclouds. The immense celestial might caused his ''Heaven'' to shrink and tremble. With a shiver of fear, he rushed back into the Eternal World.


    "Acting so maliciously right off the bat, such an evil heart!" the Curse Demon Master sneered.


    "Why aren''t you affected?" Hao Meili''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "Naturally, I''m unaffected!" the Curse Demon Master replied with an evil grin.


    Suddenly, the Curse Demon Master extended his hand to grab Hao Meili, moving so quickly that he reached her in an instant.


    "Boom!"


    His thin hand struck the red mes surrounding Hao Meili''s body, only to be repelled instantly.


    "The Karmic Fire Red Lotus me? Such an impressive Ten Thousand Evil Body, you can reach this level!" the Curse Demon Master eximed in surprise.


    "Lier, we are leaving!" Xi Du Huang called, his eyebrows furrowing.


    "I don''t believe it! I don''t believe you are unaffected." Hao Meili looked incredulous.


    "Apocalyptic Surge!"


    Hao Meili suddenly shouted, and the red mes around her body expanded dramatically.


    The blue-robed sword cultivator, who had been arrogant initially, suddenly swayed and fell from the clouds.


    "Senior Brother, what''s wrong with you?"


    Another man flew over and caught the falling blue-robed sword cultivator, preventing him from crashing to the ground.


    This unexpected change attracted the attention of many nearby cultivators.


    "Someone is causing trouble!"


    With this shout, arge group of people gathered around, all looking at Xi Duhuang and Hao Meili with hostility.


    "Go notify the curse master toe see me, and don''t make me angry!" Hao Meili demanded.


    "How dare you cause trouble in our Immortal Sect? Fellow brothers, let''s capture them and hand them over to the Disciplinary Hall for punishment!" a red-robed man shouted.


    "Humph!"


    Xi Duhuang snorted coldly.


    Immediately, all the strong cultivators swayed and fell to the ground, feeling dizzy.


    Some who acted quickly rushed into the Immortal Sect''s main hall.


    "You dare to poison us?" the red-robed man cursed angrily from the ground.


    "I merely saved your lives by not wanting to start a feud with the Immortal Sect right now. You should better keep quiet and start reciting various mantras, and don''t even think about us," Xi Duhuang advised.


    "You...!"


    The red-robed man''s fury surged as he found Xi Duhuang''s words insulting. He stared at Xi Duhuang, who returned the nce with a look of disdain.


    Feeling humiliated, the red-robed man turned his gaze to Hao Meili.


    He red at Hao Meili with hatred, thinking about how to tear her to pieces once their sect master arrived.


    "Pu~!"


    Tragically, the red-robed man, not knowing what happened, vomited a mouthful of blood and slumped down, looking miserable as if he was on the brink of death.


    "Senior Brother!" the surrounding cultivators shouted in rm.


    "You witch!" some of the poisoned people cursed.


    "Pu~!"


    Anyone who cursed Hao Meili, either verbally or in their thoughts, vomited blood and slumped down miserably.


    This was too eerie! Just cursing her made them suffer such severe injuries. What kind of person was this witch? The more they thought about it, the more hatred they felt.


    "Pu!"


    A few who dared to continue cursing her found themselves vomiting blood and fainting again.


    Xi Duhuang watched this scene with a sense of helplessness. Originally, he wanted to save these people, but who told them to be so ungrateful? Hao Meili was someone who possessed the "Myriad Evil Body," a terrifying constitution that even the heavens had to amodate. How dare they offend her?


    Hao Meili looked at these people with disdain, while Xi Duhuang remained silent.


    Just then, someone who had rushed into the Immortal Sect earlier came out with a group of three people.


    Leading them was a man with blue hair and a white robe, carrying a blood-red sword on his back �� Ye Qingcheng. Behind him were two others, clearly holding significant positions within the sect.


    As soon as Ye Qingcheng arrived, he surveyed the scene, his brows furrowing at the sight of the fallen disciples. He then turned his attention to Xi Duhuang and Hao Meili.


    "Who are you?" Ye Qingcheng asked with a frown.


    "gue Sect Leader, Xi Duhuang, here to see the curse master on behalf of my disciple, Hao Meili!" Xi Duhuang announced.


    "gue Sect? Didn''t it go extinct fifty thousand years ago?" Ye Qingcheng''s brows furrowed further.


    "If you know it''s a rumor, then you should understand it''s just that �� a rumor!" Xi Duhuang smiled.


    "Then what is your purpose here?" Ye Qingcheng asked coldly.


    "I came to save them, but they were too impulsive," Xi Duhuang sighed.


    Ye Qingcheng''s eyes grew cold, thinking Xi Duhuang was mocking the Immortal Sect. His gaze turned hostile when he looked at Hao Meili.


    But suddenly, as he directed his hostile gaze at Hao Meili, the sky above darkened, and his ''Heaven'' appeared �� a blood-red sky filled with thunder and lightning.


    Both of the people behind Ye Qingcheng also instinctively released their ''Heaven'' to shield against some unseen threat, confused as to what was attacking them. Realizing the threat came from the world itself and not from Hao Meili or Xi Duhuang, they were rmed.


    "Ten Thousand Evils Body?" Ye Qingcheng muttered.


    Hearing this, the two behind him immediately averted their eyes from Hao Meili, murmuring prayers, fearing to offend her even in their thoughts.


    Seeing this, Xi Duhuang could only sigh inwardly. The Myriad Evil Body was indeed terrifying, to the point where even heaven seemed to fear it.


    "Yes, my disciple is here to retrieve the ''Immortal Steles'' left by our ancestor, Hao Tian. Hand them over, and we might spare you," Hao Meili demanded arrogantly.


    "The Immortal Steles? Your ancestor is Hao Tian?" Ye Qingcheng questioned.


    "And what of it?" Hao Meili retorted.


    "Notify the elder, the curse master! Ask him toe here!" Ye Qingcheng ordered.


    "Yes!" someone responded and hurried into the sect.


    Momentster, a man even more mboyantly dressed than Xi Duhuang emerged, his eyes narrow and nted, resembling a fox''s eyes, with cat-like pupils and a white, powdery face.


    "The Ten Thousand Evils Body? A rare and extraordinary constitution, but cursed by heaven and earth, never living past a hundred years!" the curse mastermented with a sly voice.


    "Mind your own business!" Hao Meili snapped.


    "The curse master, what do you suggest about this?" Ye Qingcheng asked, keeping a respectful distance.


    "I don''t care about the steles. I want to know the secret they hold!" the curse master replied, his gaze fixed on Hao Meili.


    "Give them to me, and I''ll help you kill anyone below the celestial level, or even one celestial level person," Hao Meili offered.


    This proposition intrigued Ye Qingcheng, but the curse master''s eyes lit up with greed.


    "Leave. If you want the steles, show me the secret first!" the curse master demanded.


    "Try and make me!" Hao Meili''s defiance was met with a sinisterugh from the curse master.


    Suddenly, he reached out towards her, but was met with resistance from her fiery aura.


    "Red Lotus Karma Fire? You truly are exceptional," the curse mastermented, but Hao Meili''s anger only grew.


    "Let''s go, Meili!" Xi Duhuang called out.


    "No! I won''t let him win!" she cried, unleashing her full power, and the ground began to quake.

 Chapter 734: Ye Qingcheng鈥檚 Shaved Head

    <h4>Chapter 734: Ye Qingcheng''s Shaved Head</h4>


    Hao Meili recounted the entire incident while Zhong Shan listened attentively.


    "Zhong Shan, help me avenge this. I want to kill the Curse Master. I want to whip his soul until he begs for life and death!" Hao Meili''s face was once again twisted with a crazed hatred.


    Zhong Shan pondered deeply, pacing slowly, maintaining a calm demeanor.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s hesitation, Hao Meili''s expression darkened further.


    "You''re not going to help me?" Desperation and anger shed in Hao Meili''s eyes as stubborn tears streamed down her face.


    "It''s not that I won''t help you. Rushing in now would aplish nothing. The Eternal Realm is a revered sanctuary; its depths are unfathomable. We need to..." Zhong Shan exined with a frown.


    "I don''t care! Just tell me, will you help me or not?" Hao Meili''s tears halted, her gaze unwaveringly fixed on Zhong Shan.


    After a long, deep look at Hao Meili, Zhong Shan spoke gravely, "Do you want us to act impulsively and end up likest time, or would you rather wait for the right moment to utterly destroy the Eternal Realm and leave no one alive?"


    "You... What? Destroy the Eternal Realm? Leave no one alive?" Hao Meili''s anger shifted to surprise as she grasped Zhong Shan''s meaning.


    Zhong Shan nodded slightly.


    With Zhong Shan''s confirmation, Hao Meili''s tear-streaked face broke into a smile. She took several deep breaths.


    "I want to destroy the Eternal Realm. I want to leave no one alive. I want the Curse Master to suffer a fate worse than death!" Hao Meili dered resolutely.


    "Do you want to personally kill the Curse Master, then capture his soul and ensure he cannot die?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I do!" Hao Meili''s face hardened with determination.


    "But I''m not his match!" she said, showing a hint of frustration.


    "In the past, during the reign of the Hao Heavenly Emperor, who could rival him? Fifty thousand years ago, the gue Sect Master was acknowledged as the world''s number one. Neither of them was weaker than the Curse Master. You inherit the gue Sect Master''s legacy and the bloodline of the Hao Heavenly Emperor. How could you not be his match? You just need time, and not much of it," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "But how long must I wait?" Hao Meili asked anxiously.


    "Do you want revenge, or do you want to die? You decide," Zhong Shan replied firmly.


    Hao Meili sniffed sharply, wiping her nose with her hand. She nodded resolutely. "I will cultivate diligently. I must avenge my master!"


    "For now, stay in Changjing. When the time is right, I will call for you," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    Seeing the solemnity in Zhong Shan''s expression, Hao Meili bit her lip and said, "Zhong Shan, rest assured. If you help me avenge my master, I will tell you the secrets of the 108 Immortal Steles and give you all the ones I possess."


    "Immortal Steles? Aren''t there seventy-two?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly surprised.


    "There are thirty-six more that have been in my possession from the beginning," Hao Meili said, her eyes reddening.


    "No, those Immortal Steles belong to the Hao family..." Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Hmph, the Hao family? Not a single good person among them. Where were they when I was being bullied all these years? I have no obligation to safeguard the Immortal Steles for the Hao family. All I want is to avenge my master; nothing else matters," Hao Meili said angrily.


    After sending Hao Meili away, Zhong Shan fell into deep thought.


    The Eternal Realm? Zhong Shan had been nning this for a long time. Ever since the Crow Daoist led a group of Sky Extremity experts to besiege the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan had vowed to repay him. The Eternal Realm in the underworld was the perfect opportunity for that payback.


    Little was known about the true nature of the Eternal Realm. An Elder? A Curse Master? And an enigmatic "big brother" to whom the Curse Master listened? Ye Qingcheng? Numerous Sky Extremity experts? Infinite merit guarding the ce?


    Indeed, the Eternal Realm was anything but ordinary!


    Five monthster, Zhong Shan continued managing state affairs in Changjing. In Zhong Shan''s study:


    "Benefactor, Jianhong has heard many times that Xiao Wang is your enemy. Jianhong feels ashamed and wishes to serve as an envoy to persuade Xiao Wang to surrender!" Jianhong bit her lip as she spoke.


    "Have you really thought this through?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Jianhong bit her lip, pondered for a moment, and replied, "Jianhong cannot betray her benefactor any longer!"


    Seeing Jianhong''s hesitance, Zhong Shan knew she hadn''t truly resolved her feelings. Wei Taizhong had sent Jianhong, hoping Zhong Shan would use her to subdue Xiao Wang, much like now, asking her to persuade him to surrender.


    But Zhong Shan couldn''t let that happen. The timing was not yet ripe. If Jianhong went to persuade Xiao Wang now, it was more likely she would be persuaded by him instead. Zhong Shan couldn''t allow that.


    "No need. Xiao Wang is also not free to act as he wishes," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "What could be forcing him?" Jianhong questioned skeptically.


    "Ruyan, Xiao Wang''s other concern, is still in the hands of the Yin family in the underworld," Zhong Shan exined.


    Hearing this, Jianhong''s eyebrows furrowed. Clearly, she had not untangled thisplex web of rtionships.


    "Benefactor, this..."


    "You don''t need to worry. I appreciate your intentions. On the battlefield, we may indeed need your help soon. I hope you won''t refuse then," Zhong Shan said.


    "I won''t!" Jianhong assured with determination.


    After sending Jianhong away, Zhong Shan continued reviewing memorials.


    Soon, an old eunuch approached the hall from outside.


    The eunuch looked around at the entrance.


    "You wretches! How dare you sleep while on duty?" the eunuch screeched angrily.


    At his shout, the guards jolted awake.


    "Eunuch, we... we were..." the guards stammered in panic.


    "Go to the Ministry of Personnel for your punishment, hmph!" the eunuch snapped.


    "Yes, yes..." The guards hurried off, and a new batch took their ce.


    One of the punished guards frowned and asked the leader, "Commander, how did we fall asleep?"


    "Yes, Commander, I even had a dream. We were all visiting Cuiyun Pavilion, and the girls there were so charming!"


    "Uh, I had that dream too!"


    "Me too!"


    Inside Zhong Shan''s study, the eunuch entered but quickly backed out.


    "Eunuch, what are you doing?" a guard asked.


    "The Emperor is exhausted, tirelessly managing state affairs day and night. He finally fell asleep over the memorials. No one is to disturb him. Let the Emperor rest well!" the eunuch ordered.


    "Understood!" the guards responded promptly.


    The sky was overcast, and a torrential rain poured down, soaking the streets. People seeking shelter from the rain scattered away.


    Zhong Shan, dressed as a schr, stood amidst the pouring rain. The downpour soaked his clothes and muddied the hems of his pants. He looked up at the sky, his mind feeling sluggish, as if he had forgotten something important, or perhaps he couldn''t recall anything at all.


    Not far from Zhong Shan was argeke, beautiful even in the misty rain. In front of him stood a towering pagoda. The seven-story structure was grand and imposing, with multiple eaves and open windows.


    Standing at the back of the tower, Zhong Shan couldn''t see its name. While he was lost in his thoughts, a haunting melody suddenly drifted out from within the tower:


    "Who whispers by my ear, ''Love me and never change!'' Just for this phrase, I''d die without regret. Rain breaks the heart, wind weeps tears, Dreams linger, love is eternal! The water of West Lake, my tears! I wish to be a me with you! Ah, a thousand years for one chance, one chance..."


    Zhong Shan listened, feeling a sense of d��j�� vu. The song seemed both familiar and surreal. He remained in a state of confusion, his subconscious resisting this environment.


    Circling the pagoda, he walked to its front. There, he saw therge que with three characters: "Leifeng Pagoda"!


    Leifeng Pagoda? So, this is Leifeng Pagoda? But who am I?


    "Master, save me~~~!"


    The extremely familiar call shot through Zhong Shan''s mind. Was the singing woman in the pagoda calling for him to save her?


    "Master, Master~~~!"


    The familiar voice echoed in his mind. Unconsciously, Zhong Shan envisioned the woman inside the pagoda��dressed in white, stunningly beautiful, and now calling out sorrowfully.


    "Wife?" Zhong Shan frowned, his subconscious still resisting.


    At that moment, a golden light shed across the sky, and arge monk, holding a staff and a begging bowl, descended from above. If Zhong Shan were fully conscious, he would immediately recognize the monk as Ye Qingcheng, the master of the Eternal Realm.


    The monknded near Zhong Shan, untouched by rain and unmuddied by the ground.


    "Xu Xian, humans and demons are different paths. Why do you persist in this delusion?" the monk shouted.


    The monk''s shout did not further confuse Zhong Shan. Instead, it seemed to snap him back to rity. He jolted and looked at the monk in surprise.


    "Ye Qingcheng?" Zhong Shan squinted.


    "Xu Xian, have you even forgotten me, Fahai?" the monk called out again.


    Zhong Shan stared at Ye Qingcheng, his eyes full of disbelief. Ye Qingcheng had shaved his head bald?


    Then, Zhong Shan looked up at the sky, then at the West Lake before him, and finally at the grand Leifeng Pagoda. He smiled wryly.


    "Master, Fahai is here! Run, quickly, run~~~!" a terrified voice came from inside the pagoda.


    Instead of reacting as Fahai and Bai Suzhen might have expected, Zhong Shan wiped his nose with a rueful smile. He understood what was happening now.

 Chapter 735: Nineteenth on the Divine Beast Rankings

    <h4>Chapter 735: Neenth on the Divine Beast Rankings</h4>


    "Xu Xian, why do you not leave at once?" Ye Qingcheng, in the guise of Fahai, shouted.


    "My love, you must go!" the voice of Bai Suzhen, as portrayed by Nian Youyou, echoed from within Leifeng Pagoda.


    Now understanding the situation, Zhong Shan would no longer be deceived by this dream.


    Zhong Shan raised a hand, pointing a finger from which a beam of white light shot forth.


    "Xu Xian? You''ve actually learned demonic arts?" Fahai''s voice boomed with a mix of shock and anger.


    With a sweep of his hand, Zhong Shan tore a rift in the space around him. The world quaked violently, as if on the verge of copsing.


    "Boom!"


    Leifeng Pagoda crumbled into ruins, and fear shed across Fahai''s face.


    "Pop!"


    The dream shattered.


    In reality, Zhong Shan woke up, lifting himself slowly from his desk.


    Upon opening his eyes, he saw a small blue fuzzball lying on the table, clutching a ball of golden light, enjoying it immensely.


    "The Ancestor Divine Beast? Oh, Xiao Qing? Where is Nian Youyou?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    Xiao Qing, the Ancestor Divine Beast, had just stolen some luck from Zhong Shan and was blissfully savoring it,pletely unaware that Zhong Shan had awakened from the dream it had woven.


    "Eh?" Xiao Qing was momentarily startled, loosening its grip.


    "Thud!" The luck returned to Zhong Shan.


    "Eh eh eh..." Xiao Qing chirped in dismay.


    Now that Zhong Shan was awake, Xiao Qing could no longer steal his luck.


    Zhong Shan looked around, frowning slightly. "I know you''ve entered the underworld, but where is Nian Youyou?"


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s question again, Xiao Qing steadied itself, then started wiggling its plump body, shaking its rear toward Zhong Shan.


    "Eh eh eh eh..."


    Xiao Qing jumped up and down, doing handstands and shaking its bottom, as if narrating an earth-shattering event.


    Zhong Shan was speechless.


    "I can''t understand you like this. Don''t weave another dream; show me through a dream instead!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Xiao Qing tilted its head, realizing the truth in Zhong Shan''s words. It quickly extended its small paws, waving them shakily at Zhong Shan as if performing a hypnotic spell.


    "Eh eh eh eh..."


    A wave of drowsiness washed over Zhong Shan, and he did not resist.


    In a pce, two figures stood: Ye Qingcheng and Nian Youyou. On Nian Youyou''s shouldery thezy Ancestor Divine Beast, Xiao Qing.


    Zhong Shan suddenly appeared in the hall, but the two figures didn''t notice him, as if he were invisible.


    Zhong Shan knew this was a dream, a rey of past events by the Ancestor Divine Beast.


    "Nian Youyou, six thousand years ago, you were the world''s number one, the creator of the Infinite Transformations Art. You are her descendant. I respect you, the Eternal Realm respects you, but this time it cannot be helped! You must know who the Grand Elder is? He needs your Ancestor Divine Beast," Ye Qingcheng said solemnly.


    "Xiao Qing is mine. No one can take it away. If he needs one, he can find one himself!" Nian Youyou shook her head, firmly refusing.


    "The Ancestor Divine Beast ranks neenth on the Great Thousand World''s Divine Beast Rankings. The top eighteen are shrouded in mystery, even to the saints who may not have seen them all. The Ancestor Divine Beast is just at the neenth position, known as the ''Ancestor Position.'' The top hundred divine beasts have no parents and are birthed by the heavens and earth themselves. The closer they are to the top, the rarer they are. Finding another Ancestor Divine Beast is absolutely impossible," Ye Qingcheng shook his head as he spoke.


    "So, you decided to target me? Am I that easy to bully?" Nian Youyou said sternly.


    "I never wanted to y the ''bad guy,'' but I''ve already made a promise to the Mirror Demon Master. Today, you have no choice but to hand it over," Ye Qingcheng shouted.


    Suddenly, the cute Xiao Qing sat up from Nian Youyou''s shoulder, ring at Ye Qingcheng as if it understood that he intended to harm it.


    Nian Youyou nced at Ye Qingcheng, realizing that there would be no peaceful resolution. She moved swiftly, causing a cloud of golden sand to materialize around her. The sandstorm obscured everything, and with the Ancestor Divine Beast, she flew out of the hall. Nian Youyou sped off in a distant direction.


    In the sky, Ye Qingcheng''s shout echoed, "It''s useless! The Mirror Demon Master lent me the Vientiane Mirror Tower. Today, the Ancestor Divine Beast must stay!"


    As Ye Qingcheng''s voice faded, a crystalline tower, reflecting like a mirror, descended from the sky.


    "Whoosh!"


    A fierce wind locked onto Nian Youyou. Although she managed to escape the Vientiane Mirror Tower''s range, the Ancestor Divine Beast on her shoulder suddenly vanished.


    Without looking back, Nian Youyou flew away at high speed and disappeared in the distance.


    The enormous Vientiane Mirror Tower trapped the Ancestor Divine Beast and crashed to the ground.


    "Boom!"


    Ye Qingcheng watched Nian Youyou''s retreating figure but did not pursue. Instead, he turned his attention to the Ancestor Divine Beast within the tower, satisfied.


    "Your master abandoned you and ran away!" Ye Qingcheng taunted.


    "Bang!"


    Inside the tower, the golden powder around the Ancestor Divine Beast suddenly glowed, and it transformed into Nian Youyou''s shape.


    The Ancestor Divine Beast had be Nian Youyou?


    Ye Qingcheng''s eyes widened, then shifted to the direction where Nian Youyou had fled.


    "The Infinite Transformations Art? You''ve mastered a second form? And you can transform other things into your shape?" Ye Qingcheng eximed.


    The first form, infinite sand, was something Zhong Shan had witnessed before when Nian Youyou escaped as a pile of golden sand. Now, she had a second form, transforming into the Ancestor Divine Beast.


    "It''s me. You will never get Xiao Qing!" Nian Youyou dered defiantly.


    Ye Qingcheng, having miscalcted for the first time, showed a sh of anger in his eyes.


    "Guards!" Ye Qingcheng shouted.


    Quickly, two figures flew over from a distance.


    Ye Qingcheng waved his hand, retracting the Vientiane Mirror Tower, and touched Nian Youyou''s forehead with his finger. She instantly fell unconscious.


    "Lock Nian Youyou in the Eternal Sacred Prison. No one is to release her!" Ye Qingchengmanded furiously.


    "Yes, Realm Lord!" the two men immediately responded, lifting Nian Youyou and flying away swiftly.


    The scene shifted, and Zhong Shan suddenly found himself near the escaping "Nian Youyou." After flying for some distance, the figure trembled, and a burst of golden mes transformed it back into the form of the Ancestor Divine Beast.


    The Ancestor Divine Beast stood atop a mountain peak, looking back in the direction it had just escaped from, a trace of sadness in its eyes.


    "Eh eh eh..." The Ancestor Divine Beast seemed to resolve itself, making a firm decision.


    "Pop!" The dream abruptly ended.


    Zhong Shan woke up, seeing the pitiful Ancestor Divine Beast on the table. He frowned deeply.


    "Nian Youyou has been captured by Ye Qingcheng?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Eh eh eh!" The Ancestor Divine Beast nodded.


    "You created the dream of Leifeng Pagoda to tell me this? To ask me to rescue Nian Youyou?" Zhong Shan questioned.


    "Eh eh eh!" The Ancestor Divine Beast nodded again.


    "Did youe here as soon as she was captured?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Eh eh eh eh!" The Ancestor Divine Beast shook its head.


    "You went to the wrong ce first and came here after wandering around?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Eh eh eh!" The Ancestor Divine Beast nodded.


    Zhong Shan nodded, releasing some ''luck'' for the Ancestor Divine Beast to consume. He pondered silently, realizing that some time had passed since the incident. The exact timeline was unclear, but the speed of the Ancestor Divine Beast was notable.


    As for the Ancestor Divine Beast getting lost, that was not Zhong Shan''s immediate concern.


    Three monthster.


    In the realm of the Yellow Springs, within the territory of the Tian family.


    Ye Qingcheng and Tian Xiaozi stood atop a mountain peak.


    "Realm Lord Ye, I believe you also wish to know the whereabouts of the Ancestor Divine Beast?" Tian Xiaozi said with a faint smile.


    "Indeed, it''s said that not long ago, the Ancestor Divine Beast caused quite a stir in your Tian family, and it managed to escape?" Ye Qingcheng replied.


    "And you haven''t captured it either, have you?" Tian Xiaozi retorted with a smile.


    "Do you know where it is?" Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "Yes, the Ancestor Divine Beast escaped from our Tian family, but we also sent people to follow it. Although we didn''t capture it, we know where it is, which is more than your Eternal Realm can im," Tian Xiaozi said.


    "Oh?" Ye Qingcheng''s eyes narrowed.


    "Would you like toe with me to check it out?" Tian Xiaozi said with a faint smile.


    Ye Qingcheng''s eyes narrowed further, and he asked, "Why are you helping me?"


    "Helping? Heh, Realm Lord Ye, you overthink. Let''s put it this way: I''m going to see the Ancestor Divine Beast. You cane if you wish. If not, so be it," Tian Xiaozi replied with a smile.


    "What do I have to fear?" Ye Qingcheng said disdainfully.


    Changjing, in Zhong Shan''s study, a group of advisors stood before him.


    "Your Majesty, why have you summoned us here?" Yi Yan asked with a frown.


    "In two months, Qianyou will return!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Hearing this, Yi Yan raised an eyebrow. "Your Majesty, has the Empress seeded?"


    "Yes, since the news has already arrived, it''s certain. Prepare ordingly," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" the advisors responded immediately.


    "Buzz!"


    As the group discussed, a powerful divine sense swept over them.


    "Eh eh eh eh..." The Ancestor Divine Beast suddenly appeared, darting into Zhong Shan''s arms.


    Everyone was startled by the sudden change, bing cautious.


    "Ye Qingcheng?" Zhong Shan snorted coldly, stepping out of the study with his ministers.

 Chapter 736: The Black Sea Duel

    <h4>Chapter 736: The ck Sea Duel</h4>


    "Ye Qingcheng?" Zhong Shan snorted coldly as he strode out of his study, followed by a group of ministers.


    As Zhong Shan stepped out, a purple sky suddenly appeared over Changjing. The purple ''sky'' grewrger andrger, quickly covering the entire city. An aura of imperial majesty descended from this purple sky, filling the citizens of Changjing with awe and reverence.


    "Long live His Majesty, long live, long live!" The citizens and officials shouted in unison, bowing deeply as Zhong Shan walked out.


    Raising his head, Zhong Shan looked at the two figures in the sky. One was Ye Qingcheng in a white robe with blue hair, and the other was Tian Xiaozi in white attire.


    Both of them frowned as they looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Tianji Realm?" A look of astonishment shed in Tian Xiaozi''s eyes.


    When did Zhong Shan reach the Tianji Realm?


    Ye Qingcheng was only slightly surprised by Zhong Shan''s cultivation. His attention quickly shifted to Zhong Shan''s arms, where a small, furry creature was waving its tiny fists at Ye Qingcheng as if it wanted to pummel him. However, its little fists were so small, not even as big as Ye Qingcheng''s pinky finger, that itcked any semnce of threat.


    "Ye Qingcheng, Tian Xiaozi? Do you know what you''re doing? Trespassing uninvited, you''ve got some nerve!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "Uninvited? Last time at the Tian family, weren''t you the uninvited one?" Tian Xiaozi replied with a faint smile.


    "I sent a visiting card to Tian Jizi beforehand, and as for the second time, it was Tian Jizi himself who invited me. It was not impolite. But you, neither announcing your visit nor obtaining my permission, have barged into my pce. Are you provoking me?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    "Roar��������������������������������!" Beneath the purple sky, a neen-wed fortune golden dragon roared angrily.


    "Provoke? What makes you think you''re worthy of my provocation?" Ye Qingcheng sneered.


    At that moment, two more people approached Zhong Shan. Yin Luori walked up to Zhong Shan, and another person approached from the other side. Upon seeing this person, Ye Qingcheng''s pupils involuntarily contracted.


    Yin Luori was something Ye Qingcheng could ept. After all, Yin Luori following Zhong Shan was no secret for a long time. But the other person? How could it be possible?


    Nangong Sheng? Immortal Nangong Sheng?


    He still hadn''t left this world? He actually managed to stay? And from his posture, he seemed to be Zhong Shan''s subordinate.


    Who was Nangong Sheng? A master of unparalleled formations, known for driving away Ye Qingcheng with the Tianji Formation at the Blood Sea in the past.


    "Nangong Sheng? Why are you here?" Ye Qingcheng asked in disbelief.


    "Nangong Sheng, Grand Supervisor of the Yitian Bureau of the Da Zhen Imperial Dynasty, greets the Realm Lord Ye and the Head of the Tian Family," Nangong Sheng said with a faint smile.


    Grand Supervisor of the Yitian Bureau? A minister of the Da Zhen Imperial Dynasty?


    Ye Qingcheng''s brows furrowed deeply. The development of this Da Zhen Imperial Dynasty was terrifying. Tian Xiaozi had the same reaction. Nangong Sheng''s reputation was legendary; it was unthinkable that he had be a minister of Da Zhen. This Zhong Shan must not be allowed to remain. He was already a significant threat even before the future arrived.


    "Now, do you think I am qualified?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    With Zhong Shan''s words, Ye Qingcheng narrowed his eyes at him. At this moment, Ye Qingcheng had no choice but to regard Zhong Shan as an equal.


    "Zhong Shan?" Ye Qingcheng said in a deep voice.


    "Eeh-eh-eh-eh-eh..."


    As if sensing that Zhong Shan had subdued Ye Qingcheng, the ancestral beast began to cheer excitedly, waving its tiny fists at Ye Qingcheng. Seeing the little creature''sical actions, the ministers around Zhong Shan couldn''t help but smile, while Ye Qingcheng''s expression in the sky turned grim.


    "Entering Changjing without permission is an offense," Tian Xiaozi said, offering a slight apology.


    "Apologies," Ye Qingcheng also said in a stern voice.


    "In that case, please leave," Zhong Shan waved his hand, signaling them to leave.


    However, the two in the air did not leave but slowly descended to the ground.


    "What? Do you n to stir up trouble in my Changjing?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Zhong Shan, you misunderstand. I am merely apanying Realm Lord Ye. Once your matter is resolved, I will leave immediately," Tian Xiaozi quickly distanced himself.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan turned to Ye Qingcheng.


    "This creature belongs to my Ageless Realm. I hope you can return it to me," Ye Qingcheng pointed at the ancestral beast in Zhong Shan''s arms.


    Ye Qingcheng''s blunt demand caused the ministers to frown and re at him.


    "Hahaha, items of the Ageless Realm can naturally be returned to it. But something of the Da Zhen Imperial Dynasty is also in your possession. If you return it to me, I will return this creature to you," Zhong Shanughed.


    "Oh? What item?" Ye Qingcheng''s eyes narrowed.


    Some ministers were slightly startled, while others smiled.


    "The ''ying Immortal Sword'' on your back originally belonged to Da Zhen. I don''t know how it ended up in your hands, but now that you''vee to Changjing, are you perhaps here to return it?" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Hahahaha..." The ministersughed.


    It was clear that Zhong Shan had no intention of handing over the ancestral beast.


    "Scoundrel, do you dare insult me?" Ye Qingcheng''s eyes widened.


    "When did I insult you?"


    "How dare you falsely im the ying Immortal Sword!" Ye Qingcheng''s tone turned icy.


    "Then why do you falsely im the ancestral beast? Does it have your inscription on it, or the mark of the Ageless Realm? When did it be yours?" Zhong Shan''s tone grew cold.


    Zhong Shan''s words made Ye Qingcheng realize he had been rash.


    Taking a deep breath, he said, "The ancestral beast indeed belongs to Nian Youyou of my Ageless Realm. This is not a secret!"


    "Heh, it belongs to Nian Youyou? Then why are you here? If someone should retrieve it from me, it should be Nian Youyou, not an unrted person like you!" Zhong Shan replied sternly.


    Having Nian Youyoue? Clearly impossible! Ye Qingcheng red at Zhong Shan.


    At this moment, a woman in a yellow dress flew over. It was Hao Meili!


    "Zhong Shan, what''s going on?" Hao Meili shouted from a distance.


    "Ye Qingcheng?" Anger red in Hao Meili''s eyes as she recognized him.


    "Hao Meili? You fled here?" Ye Qingcheng''s eyebrows raised in surprise.


    "Hao Meili? Realm Lord Ye, who is this?" Tian Xiaozi asked.


    Ye Qingcheng did not answer Tian Xiaozi but looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, tell me, what do you want in exchange for the ancestral beast?" Ye Qingcheng seemed topromise slightly.


    "What do I want? I want nothing. Please leave," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Zhong Shan, don''t let him go. I want him dead!" Hao Meili shouted immediately.


    Tian Xiaozi watched with great interest from the side, while Ye Qingcheng''s eyes turned cold as he looked at Hao Meili.


    Zhong Shan turned to Hao Meili and said calmly, "Do you remember what I told you?"


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Hao Meili frowned continuously, and after a moment of hesitation, she reluctantly agreed, "Alright."


    Although Hao Meili stopped causing trouble, her eyes still burned with hatred as she stared at Ye Qingcheng.


    Seeing the exchange between Zhong Shan and Hao Meili, Ye Qingcheng''s expression shifted. "Zhong Shan, I imagine you are in need of the Immortal Steles. I can trade eleven Immortal Steles from my Ageless Realm for the ancestral beast. How about it?"


    Zhong Shan''s expression tightened before he revealed a faint smile. "The Immortal Steles are in the hands of the Curse Master. How can you trade something that isn''t yours for something of mine?"


    "I have a way to obtain the Immortal Steles. All you need to do is hand over the ancestral beast! The Immortal Steles hold no value to us, but with Hao Meili, they should be extremely valuable to you," Ye Qingcheng said.


    At the mention of the Immortal Steles, Hao Meili''s eyes turned blood-red with hatred toward Ye Qingcheng and the Ageless Realm.


    Zhong Shan pondered for a moment.


    "Ee-ee-ee-ee," the ancestral beast looked pitifully at Zhong Shan.


    Patting the ancestral beast, Zhong Shan smiled and said, "There is a difference between the Yin and Yang realms; the Yin realm has a custom called ''Duel Betting.'' Disputes can be settled by bettingnd, and treasures can also be wagered. Why don''t we use the Immortal Steles and the ancestral beast for a ''Three-Round Duel Betting''?"


    "This is a good idea. I am willing to act as a notary!" Tian Xiaozi''s eyes lit up as he immediately offered.


    "Agreed," Ye Qingcheng said.


    "Then please leave. Bring the Immortal Steles next time, and we will have the duel here," Zhong Shan said.


    "Here? Why not at the Ageless Realm?" Ye Qingcheng sneered.


    A duel in Zhong Shan''s capital would definitely give him an advantage.


    "Zhong Shan, it would indeed be unfair to duel here, and even more so in the Ageless Realm. How about choosing a third location? To the north, there is a ck Sea, a vast and open area suitable for the duel between the Ageless Realm and the Da Zhen Imperial Dynasty," Tian Xiaozi suggested, acting as a mediator.


    "Fine," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Fine," Ye Qingcheng agreed immediately.


    "Then see you in the ck Sea in half a year!" Tian Xiaozi smiled.


    "Half a year? He might not be able to get the Immortal Steles in half a year. Make it a year," Zhong Shan said disdainfully.


    "Hmph, fine. One year it is, a three-round duel at the ck Sea! Farewell!" Ye Qingcheng snorted and turned to leave.


    Tian Xiaozi nced at Zhong Shan and the others, nodded to Zhong Shan, and then his figure flickered and disappeared.


    After sending the two off, Zhong Shan coldly looked around before flicking his sleeves and striding back to his study, followed closely by his key officials.


    "Yi Yan, coordinate the three armies and speed up their preparations. We have one year, and by this time next year, it will be time to wrap things up," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!"


    "Yin Luori, you have three months. Notify the Four Tiger ns of the underworld and spread the news of the ''ck Sea Duel'' to the world! I want everyone to know," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "Spread the news to the world? Why?" Yin Luori was puzzled.


    "The ck Sea Duel will not be ignored by the Tian family. Tian Xiaozi''s enthusiasm suggests he is brewing some scheme. However, once the news spreads, heroes from all over the world will gather, creating a bnce of power against the Tian family," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Understood!" Yin Luori responded immediately.


    "Zhong Shan, this time..." Hao Meili began, frowning.


    "Focus on your cultivation. You have one year to prepare," Zhong Shan said.


    Others might not understand Zhong Shan''s words, but Hao Meili did. Her face lit up with excitement. "Okay!"


    "Ee-ee-ee-ee!" The ancestral beast seemed a bit upset.


    Patting the ancestral beast, Zhong Shan smiled and said, "Don''t worry, I won''t lose!"

 Chapter 737: Emperor Xuan Sha Enters the Underworld

    <h4>Chapter 737: Emperor Xuan Sha Enters the Underworld</h4>


    In the Tian family of the underworld, at the Jingbo Pool, Tian Xiaozi faced a group of elders. The Grand Elder, Tian Chenzi, slightly opened his closed eyes.


    "Grand Elder, rest assured. In less than a year, the ck Sea Duel will take ce. Zhong Shan and Ye Qingcheng are bound to have a fierce battle. I will escte their conflict to its peak, ensuring a life-and-death struggle between them. I need to borrow some people from you to ensure both sides suffer heavy losses," Tian Xiaozi said.


    "Both sides suffer heavy losses?" Tian Chenzi asked, puzzled.


    "Zhong Shan and Ye Qingcheng, one of them will definitely die, and the other will surely be injured!" Tian Xiaozi asserted.


    "Are you that confident?"


    "Yes, Zhong Shan has recently reached the Tianji Realm. Although he can open the cycle of reincarnation, he is still no match for Ye Qingcheng, but not too far behind. Additionally, Da Zhen has Nangong Sheng. Even if we include Yin Luori, theirbined strength is above Ye Qingcheng''s. However, the Ageless Realm has some old monsters, giving them an advantage. With both sides fighting, our Tian family can take advantage and achieve great results!" Tian Xiaozi exined earnestly.


    "Oh?"


    "At the same time, I have notified Xiao Wang to prepare our forces. Once the ck Sea Duel concludes, and if Zhong Shan dies, we will swiftly take over the Da Zhen Imperial Dynasty. If Ye Qingcheng dies, we will take over the Five-Colored Dynasty!" Tian Xiaozi continued.


    "Hmm, how many people do you need?" Tian Chenzi asked.


    "To ensure absolute sess, I need eight people!" Tian Xiaozi confirmed.


    "Alright, I will give them to you," Tian Chenzi nodded.


    Four monthster, in the Tian family, at the Tian Mai Hall.


    Tian Xiaozi listened to a subordinate''s report.


    "What? The ck Sea Duel is known to the world?" Tian Xiaozi''s tone turned cold.


    "Yes, family head, the news of the ck Sea Duel has spread everywhere," the subordinate reported.


    Tian Xiaozi paced back and forth in the hall, deep in thought.


    "Family head, should we cancel our ns?"


    "No, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I have worked hard to lure them to the ck Sea. How can we miss it? Even if the world knows, so what? I refuse to believe anyone would dare oppose our Tian family. Continue with the n and notify Xiao Wang to elerate the preparations!" Tian Xiaozi ordered.


    "Yes!"


    In the Da Zhen Imperial Dynasty, Changjing, in Zhong Shan''s study.


    Gu Qianyou stood beside Zhong Shan, and in front of them stood a woman in white, her feet not touching the ground. She bowed gracefully to Zhong Shan.


    "Ruyan greets her benefactor!" the woman bowed gracefully.


    "Back in the Yang realm, I helped you find Xiao Wang, and you gave me the ''Ten Halls.'' There is no need for such a title," Zhong Shan said, gently lifting Ruyan.


    "No, you sent Miss Qianyou to rescue me from the Tian family. I am forever grateful," Ruyan shook her head.


    "Wasn''t the Tian family good to you?"


    "The Tian family treated me very well, fulfilling all my needs and providing hundreds of servants just for me. But I despise such treatment because I know the Tian family is using me to imprison my husband. They turned me into a golden cage to trap my faraway husband. My husband is a great man and shouldn''t be confined because of me. I am eternally grateful to you for saving me!" Ruyan exined.


    "Did the Tian family not help you reincarnate?"


    "Reincarnate? My husband would never allow it. Reincarnation would mean losing almost all memories and bing a Tian family member. My husband experienced reincarnation and does not want me to go through it. He retained his past life memories by luck, thus not truly belonging to the Tian family. But if I reincarnate, everything would be erased, with only a one percent chance of sess!" Ruyan shook her head.


    "One percent chance? Xiao Wang truly is fortunate. Not only did he transform from a ghost with a one percent chance, but he also became human with another one percent chance while retaining his memories. Remarkable, truly remarkable!" Zhong Shan nodded, sighing in admiration.


    "Will you let me see my husband?" Ruyan asked, looking at Zhong Shan.


    Though grateful to Zhong Shan, Ruyan feared that he might use her to imprison Xiao Wang, rendering her escape meaningless.


    Seeing Ruyan''s concern, Zhong Shan said, "Rest assured, Ruyan, I am not like the Tian family. I will not restrict your freedom. In a few months, I will send you to Xiao Wang, apanied by another ghost. For now, stay in Changjing."


    "Who?" Ruyan asked, frowning.


    "Jian Hong," Zhong Shan replied.


    After sending off Ruyan, Zhong Shan looked at Gu Qianyou.


    "Well done!" Zhong Shan praised.


    "Perhaps we should thank Xiao Qing this time," Gu Qianyou smiled.


    "Oh?"


    "During the ancestral beast''s rampage at the Tian family, we used that brief window to meet Ruyan and rece her with the ''fake ghost'' created by Mr. Corpse," Gu Qianyou exined confidently.


    "Ancestral beast? Truly fated!" Zhong Shanughed heartily.


    "Indeed, otherwise, it would have taken much longer. We owe this smooth operation to Xiao Qing!"


    "Since the task is halfway done, you continue from here. Harmonize the rtionship between Ruyan and Jian Hong. During the ck Sea Duel, coordinate with Yi Yan for a decisive victory," Zhong Shan instructed firmly.


    "Everything is arranged. We just need to follow the n," Gu Qianyou nodded.


    In the Ageless Realm.


    "Curse Master, this is an order from the Mirror Master. Please lend me the Immortal Steles for a while," Ye Qingcheng said.


    "From my elder brother? Sigh, I''ll lend them to you, but you must bring them back, and preferably bring Hao Meili as well. I''ve studied these Immortal Steles; they contain immense power and are definitely not from this realm. They surelye from the Great Thousand World and have traces of the Wu tribe. Remember this!" the Curse Master sighed.


    "The Wu tribe?" Ye Qingcheng''s eyebrows raised.


    "Yes, the Wu tribe!" the Curse Master nodded.


    "I understand. Bringing back the Immortal Steles won''t be difficult, but Hao Meili is another matter. She has a body of myriad evils. While she may not harm us, we might not be able to deal with her either. To bring her back, you might need toe with me," Ye Qingcheng suggested.


    "My brother and I must guard the Ageless Realm. We cannot leave our posts. Are you implying you need my ''Protective Curse Talisman''? Hmph, you don''t need to beat around the bush. I''ll lend it to you this once, but you better return it!" the Curse Master said sternly.


    A year passed quickly.


    The ck Sea Duel between Ye Qingcheng of the Ageless Realm and Zhong Shan of the Da Zhen Imperial Dynasty was approaching. The stakes were the ancestral beast and the Immortal Steles.


    People went from initial skepticism to gradually believing it.


    The Immortal Steles were relics left by the great Emperor Haotian of the once-powerful Da Hong Tianchao in the Yang realm, rumored to conceal enormous secrets.


    As for the ancestral beast, it was even more extraordinary. With the deliberate spread of information, details about the ancestral beast quickly surfaced.


    In the vast world, the ancestral beast ranks neenth among the mythical creatures. The top eighteen mythical creatures remain shrouded in mystery, even within the Great Thousand World. Among the known mythical beasts, the ancestral beast ranks first, thus earning its title as the Ancestral Beast.


    People might not grasp the full significance of this ranking, but they recall a video from the past showing a golden day descending from the heavens and a Qilin appearing in the Lesser Thousand World. Despite being suppressed by the world''s limitations, the fire Qilin was still an overwhelmingly powerful presence, yet it ranked only ny-sixth. The Ancestral Beast is ranked neenth?


    The stakes in this duel have piqued immense interest, and the sh between the leaders of two mighty forces has ignited the fervor of countless strong cultivators.


    Upon hearing the news, countless experts madly rushed to the ck Sea.


    The ck Sea, true to its name, is a pitch-ck expanse of water, as dark as ink. Even divine senses struggle to prate its depths. The seawater possesses a powerful corrosive nature, making even supreme realm experts wary of entering.


    The ck Sea roared with turbulent waves, and at its perimeter, a throng of experts had gathered, creating a sea of people. Countless powerful individuals hade, all eager to witness this unparalleled duel.


    "Look over there, three people have suddenly appeared on the sea''s surface!" one of the onlookers suddenly eximed.


    "Where? Where?"


    "Over there! I recognize him. The one in the white robe with blue hair is Ye Qingcheng. I saw him once at the Blood Sea. He carries the world''s most fearsome sword, the ying Immortal Sword. Even an ordinary expert can cut through space with it, an invincible force!"


    "The other two seem to be Dao Lords from the Ageless Realm, both at the Tianji Realm!"


    "Three Tianji Realm experts? Three peerless masters? The Da Zhen Imperial Dynasty is doomed. How can a mere dynasty contend with a holynd? Three Tianji Realm experts, is this the Ageless Realm''s top strength?"


    People buzzed with discussions, clearly shocked by the impressive lineup from the Ageless Realm. Three Tianji Realm experts? Zhong Shan was doomed. How could a small dynasty produce three Tianji Realm experts? Ridiculous!


    Ye Qingcheng arrived, ncing at the countless onlookers with a slight frown. He also noticed several old acquaintances.


    Ye Qingcheng slightly frowned at seeing the Tianji Realm experts from the underworld and nodded at them but did not engage further.


    Just then, Tian Xiaozi flew over on a cloud.


    "Head of the Tian Family!"


    "Realm Lord Ye!"


    The two exchanged greetings.


    "Zhong Shan hasn''t arrived yet?" Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "Be patient, Realm Lord Ye. ording to my information, Zhong Shan arrived in a nearby city three days ago. He should be here shortly," Tian Xiaozi smiled.


    "Hmm!" Ye Qingcheng nodded.


    In the distance, people began to specte if Zhong Shan had fled. After all, who would dare face such a lineup?


    Just when the crowd thought they would be disappointed, a white cloud slowly drifted over the horizon. Atop the cloud was a dragon throne.


    "He''s here! He''s here! The one on the dragon throne is Zhong Shan!" someone shouted.


    "But why are there only two people? Who is the person in the white robe standing beside the throne?"


    "Zhong Shan is holding a small furry creature. Is that the Ancestral Beast?"


    "That''s not Nangong Sheng. Who is he?" Tian Xiaozi frowned.


    Ye Qingcheng also frowned, watching the two. What was Zhong Shan doing? Bringing a stranger? Where were Nangong Sheng and Hao Meili? Could this white-robed person be more powerful than them, or was Zhong Shan nning to concede?


    "Emperor Xuan Sha, look at these people underestimating you. Hahaha!" Zhong Shanughed as he and Emperor Xuan Sha flew closer.

 Chapter 738: The Showdown at Dao Le Realm

    <h4>Chapter 738: The Showdown at Dao Le Realm</h4>


    In thend of the ck Sea, it had be the focus of attention for all the heroes of the world, drawing countless powerful individuals. Zhongshan had brought Emperor Xuan Sha from the mortal realm, and this gambling duel was destined to leave unforgettable memories for Ye Qingcheng, and surely a thrilling saga for all the powerful factions of the world.


    The ck Sea had drawn the leaders of both sides to gather in a city in the southern part of the underworld.


    "General, what do we do next?" Xiao Yuanfeng looked towards Xiao Wangdao.


    "Prepare ourselves. When news from the ck Sea arrives, it will be time for a strong offensive!" Xiao Wangdao tapped the table decisively.


    As they spoke, Xiao Wangdao furrowed his brow slightly, a hint of reluctance shing in his eyes.


    Seeing his father''s expression, Xiao Yuanfeng sighed softly.


    "We are all ready, just waiting for Tiao''s Fengshui Grand Array to be set up!" Xiao Yuanfeng thought for a moment.


    "Tiao? Since the Head of the Tian Family sent Tiao, it shows his great determination. Tiao? Haha!" Xiao Wangdao showed a faint smile of disdain.


    "Urgent report~~~~~!"


    Suddenly, a loud shout came from outside the main hall.


    Xiao Wangdao and Xiao Yuanfeng nced at each other, surprise flickering in their eyes.


    Soon, a young soldier entered the hall.


    "Reporting to the General, the troops of the Da Geng Dynasty are challenging us outside the city!" the soldier reported.


    "Challenging us? At this time?" Xiao Yuanfeng looked puzzled.


    "Yes, the war drums are sounding, waiting only for the General''smand!" the soldier said.


    "Something''s wrong. The troops of the Da Geng Dynasty should have been dormant temporarily along with the ck Sea duel. Why are they attacking now?" Xiao Wangdao frowned slightly.


    "Who is it? Zhao Suoxiang? Shui Jing? Or which marshal of the Da Geng?" Xiao Yuanfeng asked.


    "None of them!" replied the soldier.


    "Oh?" Xiao Wangdao looked at the soldier strangely.


    Just because Zhongshan had once impressed Xiao Wangdao didn''t mean Xiao Wangdao''s strength had been reset to zero. Xiao Wangdao was still Xiao Wangdao. Without a propermander, who would dare to attack the city?


    "Themanding g of the iing army bears a ''sword''. ording to the scout''s report, the leader of this army is a woman named ''Jian Hong''. I''ve never heard of her before!" the soldier quickly said.


    "What?" Xiao Wangdao suddenly stood up.


    Beside him, Xiao Yuanfeng also opened his mouth wide, showing an incredible expression.


    The soldier had never seen the General so flustered before. Could this ''Jian Hong'' be even more formidable than Zhao Suoxiang and the others? What exactly was her background?


    "Report to the General, the leader of the enemy army is called ''Jian Hong''." the soldier said.


    Upon hearing this, both Xiao Wangdao and Xiao Yuanfeng were visibly stunned.


    "Leave us!" Xiao Yuanfeng said.


    "Yes!" The soldier retreated with confusion.


    "Father, General!" Xiao Yuanfeng''s voice trembled slightly.


    "Zhongshan is indeed impressive. He is more cunning than I am!" Xiao Wangdao sighed heavily.


    General Jian Hong had challenged them in the morning, and Xiao Wangdao had not responded. In the afternoon, she had set up camp and established a negotiation hall in the center of the military fortress and the city. Xiao Wangdao led Xiao Yuanfeng personally to attend.


    Before the negotiation hall, Xiao Wangdao hesitated for a moment before stepping inside.


    Inside, there were only four people.


    Gu Qianyou sat at the main seat, with Tiao from the mortal realm beside him, the Tiao who had surrendered to Da Geng. Sitting in the guest seats were two women. One was the valiant Jian Hong, while the other was much more graceful, the very one Gu Qianyou had rescued from the Tian Family in the underworld, Ruyan.


    Seeing this scene, Xiao Wang''s face changed drastically.


    "Husband~~~~~~!"


    Ruyan called out affectionately. Jian Hong bit her lip, not as dependent as Ruyan, but her eyes were also filled with tears at this moment.


    Xiao Yuanfeng looked from side to side, finally bowing respectfully, "Yuanfeng greets the two stepmothers!"


    Xiao Wang''s heart was touched. He looked at the two women, then at Gu Qianyou in the main seat, and revealed aplex smile. "I am not as good as Zhongshan!"


    In a secluded valley, a group of people stood.


    At the forefront was Zhongshan. Another Zhongshan? Zhongshan divided himself into his true form and a shadow body. One Zhongshan was at the ck Sea, and here was another, indicating that the true form of Zhongshan from the mortal realm had also descended. It was unclear if this was the true form or the shadow body.


    Behind Zhongshan were a group of strong figures from Da Geng.


    Among them were Nangong Sheng, Yin Luori, Wang Ku, Ni Pusa, Zhong Tian, Hao Meili, Mr. Shi, and two colossal monsters. Zhongshan had seen these monsters before; they were Tian Gui created by Mr. Shi using the bodies of immortals and countless ghostly creatures.


    There were ten figures in total. Although not all were at the peak of the celestial realm, each posed a threat no less than a typical celestial realm expert.


    "Ni Pusa!" Zhongshan called.


    "Here!"


    "You must first find the ''Yin-Yang Road'' connecting Dao Le Realm to the mortal realm and destroy it as quickly as possible, preventing reinforcements from the Longevity Realm!" Zhongshan ordered solemnly.


    "Yes!"


    "Nangong Sheng!"


    "Here!"


    "Set up the Great Luo Zhoutian Star Array to confine the boundless merits of Dao Le Realm!"


    "Yes!"


    "Zhong Tian, use the Spirit Tower to forcibly absorb the infinite merits of Dao Le Realm!"


    "Yes!"


    "Hao Meili, the curse demon master is your responsibility. I will also assign a Tian Gui to assist you."


    "Don''t worry, I shouldn''t be afraid of the curse demon master now. Although the Tian Gui has little resistance to curses, I can handle it!"


    "No carelessness!" Zhongshan red.


    "Alright!" Hao Meili reluctantly agreed.


    Zhongshan demanded perfection, with no room for errors.


    "Yin Luori, have you organized the tiger n''s strong warriors?"


    "Yes, the imperial realm experts of the tiger n, the imperial realm experts of the wolf n, and the imperial realm experts of the Xuanwu and Phoenix ns are all positioned in a surrounding formation at a distance, awaiting the wolf n''s young master, Xianxian''smand. No one below the celestial realm will escape!" Yin Luori confirmed confidently.


    "Good. This time, I aim to eliminate Dao Le Realm in one fell swoop. However, your safety is paramount. In the massacre, if any side is in danger, support wille from all directions. Any failure to rescue will be severely punished!" Zhongshan''s tone turned stern.


    "Yes!" Everyone nodded, though Hao Meili did not explicitly agree but neither did she object.


    "Father, why wager on the ck Sea duel? If Emperor Xuan Sha and your other self were here, it would be much easier!" Zhong Tian asked with a hint of confusion.


    "I and Emperor Xuan Sha are at the ck Sea primarily to draw the world''s attention. If it weren''t for the focal point of the ck Sea, our siege of the Dao Le Realm would certainly attract more and more powerful beings, including those from the Tian Family. Would those strong forces allow us to destroy the Dao Le Realm without taking the opportunity to rise?" Zhongshan shook his head.


    "Yes!"


    "Moreover, Ye Qingcheng has been lured away. As the realm master, he can infinitely manipte the merits of the Dao Le Realm. Without him, the strength of the Dao Le Realm is greatly diminished, not to mention the Immortal ying Sword. Ye Qingcheng''s personal strength is formidable in the underworld, so he must be away from the Dao Le Realm!" Zhongshan continued seriously.


    "Understood!"


    "Alright, the time hase. Let''s begin!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Everyone responded immediately.


    In thend of the ck Sea, the world''s attention was focused.


    Countless powerful beings gathered for the ultimate showdown. One might doubt Zhongshan''s strength, but Ye Qingcheng''s power was unquestionable. As the powerful realm master of the Dao Le Realm, wielding the unparalleled Immortal ying Sword, anyone Zhongshan faced would not be a pushover.


    The presence of Emperor Xuan Sha beside the dragon throne aroused great curiosity among many. Who was this stranger, and where did hee from?


    Ye Qingcheng and others stood on the surface of the ck Sea, waiting. The turbulent waters behind the three celestial beings suddenly calmed, transforming into a mirror-like surface, utterly tranquil.


    All the onlookers held their breath, watching intently, afraid of missing anything.


    Zhongshan''s white cloud descended slowly,nding on the ck Sea at a distance from Ye Qingcheng.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    As the dragon thronended, the remaining waters of the ck Sea stilled abruptly. The vast ck Sea now appeared like a gigantic ck gemstone, smooth and polished.


    At a distance, Zhongshan and Ye Qingcheng faced each other coldly.


    Zhongshan showed a faint smile, while Ye Qingcheng''s expression turned icy.


    Tian Xiaozi frowned slightly, looking at Zhongshan and the white-robed man beside him.


    Emperor Xuan Sha was someone Tian Xiaozi had heard of, but in the mortal realm, few had seen his true face. Therefore, Xiao Wang had not identified the white-robed man as Emperor Xuan Sha. This misidentification was reinforced by habitual thinking.


    Others naturally thought the same.


    "Ye Qingcheng, you kept your promise!" Zhongshan said with a faint smile.


    "Yiyiyiyi!" The little furball waved its fist at Ye Qingcheng again.


    Ye Qingcheng frowned. "Why are there only the two of you? Where are Nangong Sheng and Hao Meili?"


    "You and I are dueling. My people are arranged as I see fit. Do I need to report my arrangements to you?" Zhongshan retorted with a cold smile.


    A sense of unease grew in Ye Qingcheng. Things were not unfolding as he had envisioned. Although Zhongshan was indeed before him, something felt off. How could such a significant battle ur without Nangong Sheng and Hao Meili being present?


    Despite the bad feeling, Ye Qingcheng maintained a serious gaze at Zhongshan, knowing Zhongshan wouldn''t gamble with his own life.


    "Since both sides are here, let the duel begin!" Tian Xiaozi, acting as the arbiter, said with a smile.


    Zhongshan nced at Tian Xiaozi, understanding that such enthusiasm was driven by ulterior motives. However, Zhongshan was unafraid. Strength was the root of courage.


    "The ancestral divine beast is here. Ye Qingcheng, where is your item?" Zhongshan asked.

 Chapter 739: The Genius Emperor Xuan Sha

    <h4>Chapter 739: The Genius Emperor Xuan Sha</h4>


    "The ancestral divine beast is here. Ye Qingcheng, where is your item?" Zhongshan asked.


    The ancestral divine beast in Zhongshan''s arms leapt out, puffing up its small chest. Countless onlookers watched this scene, and when they saw the tiny furball, almost everyone was in shock. This little thing was the ancestral divine beast? The neenth-ranked divine beast in the Great Thousand World?


    It was hard to see any formidable traits in this small furball, but countless female cultivators'' eyes lit up, wishing they could hold the ancestral divine beast in their arms and cuddle it, as its appearance was simply too adorable.


    Staring at the ancestral divine beast, Ye Qingcheng confirmed its authenticity. With a wave of his hand, eleven immortal steles suddenly fell onto the ck Sea. Supported by some magical force, the steles did not sink into the water.


    "Gentlemen, how about letting me guard the immortal steles and the ancestral divine beast? The final victor will im them," Tian Xiaozi suggested with a smile.


    "No need!" Ye Qingcheng shook his head.


    With a wave of his hand, he produced a floating ind and ced it on the ck Sea. He ced the immortal steles on it and pushed it to a distant corner.


    The floating ind, Ye Qingcheng, and Zhongshan formed a triangr arrangement. Clearly, this was a neutral tform. Ye Qingcheng did not trust Tian Xiaozi.


    Being refused, Tian Xiaozi touched his nose, maintaining his smile, but a cold gleam shed in his eyes.


    With a sweep of his divine sense, Zhongshan confirmed the floating ind was safe. With a wave of his hand, the ancestral divine beast ''whooshed'' onto the floating ind.


    The ancestral divine beast was very intelligent, and its speed was astonishing, causing even some celestial realm experts to furrow their brows.


    "Alright, let''s begin!" Ye Qingcheng dered solemnly.


    With Ye Qingcheng''s word, the duel officially began.


    Tian Xiaozi''s figure flickered as he exited the ck Sea, leaving only the parties of Zhongshan and Ye Qingcheng on the ck Sea. The true battle was about tomence.


    Everyone held their breath.


    "For the first of three battles, Ye Qingcheng, you may start," Zhongshan said with a smile.


    Ye Qingcheng nodded, and a man in red, holding a sword, stepped forward from behind him. Ye Qingcheng retreated slightly with another person.


    Zhongshan looked at Emperor Xuan Sha, who nodded in return. Zhongshan''s dragon throne moved backward.


    In the center of the ck Sea, only two people remained: Emperor Xuan Sha and the man in red with a sword.


    "That''s Hong Jian Daojun from the Dao Le Realm. His swordsmanship is unparalleled, with few rivals in the underworld. For two thousand years, it''s said only Ye Qingcheng could surpass him in swordsmanship. He''s extremely powerful!" an experienced onlooker shouted.


    "This white-robed man is in for a tough fight!"


    "A tough fight? That unknown white-robed man can''t possibly be a match for Hong Jian Daojun!"


    "I''ve heard Hong Jian Daojun is extremely ruthless. I wonder how the white-robed man will die?"


    "The white-robed man is doomed!"


    Emperor Xuan Sha looked at Hong Jian Daojun and smiled faintly, showing no fear. He had once torn apart celestial beings with his bare hands; why would he fear Hong Jian Daojun?


    The only one here who could make Emperor Xuan Sha cautious was Ye Qingcheng, and that was because of the Immortal ying Sword in his hand.


    However, Zhongshan had discussed this with Emperor Xuan Sha beforeing. Winning or losing was not important; what mattered was time. Emperor Xuan Sha''s task was merely to buy time.


    Emperor Xuan Sha disdained such things but didn''t feel it was beneath him. After all, these people weren''t worth his concern. It was just a game.


    "I am Hong Jian, Daojun. Who might you be?" Hong Jian Daojun asked.


    "You''re not worthy of knowing," Emperor Xuan Sha responded with a faint smile.


    A sh of anger crossed Hong Jian Daojun''s eyes. Many of the surrounding strongmen were also slightly taken aback. This white-robed man was too arrogant. Didn''t he know who Hong Jian Daojun was?


    In the distance, Ye Qingcheng frowned, staring at Emperor Xuan Sha, deep in thought.


    On the shore, Tian Xiaozi watched the people on the ck Sea with cold eyes, a flicker of cold light shing in his gaze.


    "I''m not worthy of knowing? Hmph, the soon-to-be-dead don''t need to know!" Hong Jian Daojun retorted coldly.


    Drawing therge sword from his back, Hong Jian Daojun''s figure disappeared in a blur, reappearing high in the sky. With a sh, boundless sword energy filled the air, rushing into the sword. The scene of ten thousand swords converging was immensely powerful, like a flood.


    "The Great Hong Sword Technique?" someone in the crowd quickly recognized it.


    The powerful force caused the surrounding space to tremble. Many strongmen around the ck Sea retreated.


    A cold smile appeared on Hong Jian Daojun''s lips. The Great Hong Sword Technique was known for its explosive power. A single strike left no room for escape, forcing the opponent to resist with all their might. The buildup of power had surpassed everything, unstoppable and invincible.


    As the enormous three-thousand-zhang sword shed towards Emperor Xuan Sha, it was too fast to avoid. Just as the sword energy was about to strike, Emperor Xuan Sha smiled faintly and strangely grabbed the hem of his robe. It was a peculiar scene; despite the instant it took, everyone saw Emperor Xuan Sha unhurriedly lift the cumbersome hem and gently step aside, evading the Great Hong Sword.


    This scene was incredibly bizarre. That moment seemed to defy time, appearing both slow and fast. The speed of Hong Jian Daojun''s strike was unparalleled, yet Emperor Xuan Sha''s movement seemed leisurely, as if bending time itself, avoiding the sword effortlessly. How was that possible?


    Many strongmen rubbed their eyes, feeling they must have seen wrong.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Great Hong Sword plunged into the ck Sea without touching Emperor Xuan Sha.


    Seeing this, Ye Qingcheng''s eyebrows rose in surprise. Although Hong Jian Daojun hadn''t used his full strength, the white-robed man''s speed was astonishing, leaving afterimages and creating a visual illusion.


    "Your sword is ordinary, your technique is ordinary, and you are ordinary," Emperor Xuan Shamented, shaking his head.


    "Scoundrel!" Hong Jian Daojun roared in anger, shing again at Emperor Xuan Sha.


    Emperor Xuan Sha soared into the air, with Hong Jian Daojun following closely. Emperor Xuan Sha did not counterattack, allowing Hong Jian Daojun to sh repeatedly. The powerful space trembled with each strike, causing the numerous strongmen below to retreat again and again.


    Hong Jian Daojun was formidable, as evidenced by his every move. Yet the white-robed man''s strength also rose in the eyes of the onlookers. At this point, no one doubted Emperor Xuan Sha''s abilities.


    The battlested a full day and night. During this time, Hong Jian Daojun exhausted all his skills, but he still couldn''t harm Emperor Xuan Sha.


    "The eighth form of the Great Hong Sword Technique, Void Split!" Hong Jian Daojun roared.


    The Great Hong Sword shot towards the sky, aiming at Emperor Xuan Sha. Instantly, eight massive spatial rifts appeared. This strike tore through space, with eight rifts from different directions locking onto and tearing towards Emperor Xuan Sha.


    Seeing the spatial rifts closing in, the crowd gasped, unsure if even Emperor Xuan Sha could escape this.


    "Shattering the void? That white-robed man is doomed now!" an onlooker eximed.


    High in the sky, Emperor Xuan Sha coldly watched the eight spatial rifts. With a cold smile, he used his hand as a de and shed eight times, creating eight spatial rifts from his hand that met Hong Jian Daojun''s rifts head-on.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Eight resounding explosions urred as the spatial rifts collided, causing the surrounding space to tremble violently. Emperor Xuan Sha had neutralized Hong Jian Daojun''s attack.


    Hong Jian Daojun stared in shock at Emperor Xuan Sha. Cutting through space with his bare hands? What kind of monster was this?


    The scene fell into a stalemate.


    Everyone had already realized that this white-robed man was hiding his true strength. He was extremely capable. Hong Jian Daojun was in trouble; it would be impressive if he could even avoid defeat.


    Ye Qingcheng, seeing Emperor Xuan Sha''s move, narrowed his eyes. He knew that the strength Emperor Xuan Sha just disyed was something he could do himself, and he was well aware that Hong Jian Daojun was no match for Emperor Xuan Sha. But Ye Qingcheng did not recall Hong Jian Daojun because he wanted to test Emperor Xuan Sha''s limits.


    The countless onlookers had long stopped discussing, holding their breath as they watched. The fight was too exciting!


    Hong Jian Daojun looked at Emperor Xuan Sha with a serious expression, unsure of what to do next. Meanwhile, Emperor Xuan Sha smiled faintly and said, "Since you''ve already given your best, it''s my turn to strike back!"


    As he spoke, Emperor Xuan Sha flipped his hand, producing a copper hammer.


    Seeing the copper hammer, nearly everyone was stunned. Was this his weapon?


    No, it wasn''t his weapon. Emperor Xuan Sha threw the copper hammer into a ze that suddenly appeared in his palm. The hammer quickly melted, and under Emperor Xuan Sha''s control, it began to take the shape of a long sword.


    This scene left everyone astonished.


    "What is he doing?"


    "Forging a sword!"


    The onlookers were dumbfounded. Forging a sword in the middle of a battle? Was he crazy? Only when the sword was finally shaped did they understand.


    "The Great Hong Sword? Is that white-robed man forging a Great Hong Sword identical to Hong Jian Daojun''s?" someone eximed.


    Indeed, in no time, Emperor Xuan Sha held a sword identical to Hong Jian Daojun''s.


    "Watch this!" Emperor Xuan Sha said with a smile.


    With that, he shed with the newly forged sword, creating a rift in the air that tore towards Hong Jian Daojun.


    Seeing Emperor Xuan Sha''s swordsmanship, Ye Qingcheng''s pupils contracted. Hong Jian Daojun''s pupils also shrank, and below, Tian Xiaozi''s eyes widened. Many distinguished figures who had been watching from a distance suddenly stood up.


    "The Great Hong Sword Technique? That white-robed man is using the Great Hong Sword Technique?"


    "How can that be? The Great Hong Sword Technique was created by Hong Jian Daojun!"


    "Did he steal Hong Jian Daojun''s sword technique?"


    "Steal?"


    People were once again shocked by Emperor Xuan Sha''s strength.


    The most shocked of all was Hong Jian Daojun. He realized with horror that the white-robed man before him was not only proficient in the Great Hong Sword Technique but seemed even more skilled than he was.


    How could this be? This was his own creation, yet after just a day of observation and seeing him use it once, the white-robed man had mastered it to such an extent? It seemed impossible.


    "No, it''s impossible!" Hong Jian Daojun shouted, unable to ept the reality. He prided himself as a genius, having created the Great Hong Sword Technique. Throughout history, those who could create such extraordinary sword techniques were all exceptionally talented. The Great Hong Sword Technique had 3,600 forms, incrediblyplex. Others would need at least half a year to grasp even the basics. He was a sword genius, unrivaled in swordsmanship except by Ye Qingcheng.


    But Emperor Xuan Sha''s single sh shattered Hong Jian Daojun''s confidence. How could this be? He had only seen the technique once, yet he had grasped its essence? Using a newly forged sword, he reached a level Hong Jian Daojun himself hadn''t achieved?


    A genius? Was he even more of a genius than himself? No, it couldn''t be true, it couldn''t be!

 Chapter 740: Returning the Favor

    <h4>Chapter 740: Returning the Favor</h4>


    Daoist Hong Jian couldn''t believe it. It was impossible. How could someone who had only seen his sword technique once wield it with greater mastery than its creator? Unthinkable, absolutely unthinkable.


    In the way of the sword, only the Realm Lord Ye Qingcheng could surpass him. No one else could possibly do so.


    While doubting, Daoist Hong Jian felt a tremor of fear deep within. The pressure from the man in white before him was overwhelming, shattering his perception of reality. How could this be? Absolutely impossible.


    He was the genius, the one who had created this unparalleled sword technique. How could there be a greater genius who could remember it perfectly after a single nce and even optimize it?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Their colossal sword energies shed, resulting in a thunderous explosion. The space at the point of impact shattered as their powerful strikes neutralized each other.


    Though it seemed like a draw, the fractured space extended slightly more towards Daoist Hong Jian''s side. This meant that the earlier strike had actually put Di Xuan Sha at an advantage.


    The same sword technique, created by Daoist Hong Jian, yet he was slightly outmatched?


    How could this be? Everyone who could discern what had happened closed their eyes tightly in disbelief. How could this be? Was the man in white also a sword master? An unparalleled expert far beyond Daoist Hong Jian?


    "Impossible, absolutely impossible!" Daoist Hong Jian cried out in disbelief.


    From afar, Ye Qingcheng frowned slightly. He could see that Daoist Hong Jian was bing somewhat unhinged but did not call him back.


    "Nothing is impossible. Your realm is insufficient, and your sword technique is crude and unfinished. Let me teach you what the ''Great Hong Sword Technique'' truly is!" Di Xuan Sha taunted with a mocking smile.


    As he spoke, Di Xuan Sha''s sword thrust towards Daoist Hong Jian again.


    It was still the Great Hong Sword Technique.


    "ng~~~~~ ng~~~~~ ng~~~~~ ng~~~~~~~~!"


    One thrust followed another, and at that moment, Daoist Hong Jian seemed unable to retaliate, only able to defend with all his might. Di Xuan Sha was not using his full strength, striking at just the right intensity.


    "This strike should angle westward!"


    "This strike should be faster!"


    "This strike should be slower!"


    "This strike should start slow then quicken!"


    ... Di Xuan Sha''s thrusts continued, each time demonstrating the Great Hong Sword Technique but with modifications. Each adjustment seemed like a stroke of genius, transforming the technique into something iparably perfect.


    From a distance, the spectators were stunned.


    "Is this?"


    "Does the man in white know Daoist Hong Jian''s Great Hong Sword Technique?" a dumbfounded cultivator murmured.


    "No, look at the sequence. The man in white is using the same sequence of sword moves as Daoist Hong Jian did earlier. Exactly the same sequence!" another person suddenly eximed.


    Many quickly took out their memory crystals and yed back the recorded footage.


    "Hiss~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The sound of sharp intakes of breath filled the air. Was there really such a genius? To remember three thousand moves after seeing them once? And even to optimize them all?


    Who was this man in white? Why had no one heard of him before? Genius? This was beyond genius, this was a monster!


    The onlookers were all in awe, many showing expressions of reverence towards Di Xuan Sha.


    Ye Qingcheng squinted his eyes, seeing that Daoist Hong Jian had been led into a trap. Observing closely, Ye Qingcheng realized that Di Xuansha hadn''t optimized every move; he had only improved a small portion of them. The rest were slightly altered, not necessarily more powerful than the originals, but enough to make Daoist Hong Jian believe they were enhanced.


    Each strike Di Xuansha made didn''t physically harm Daoist Hong Jian but deeply pierced his psyche, leaving him spiritually and mentally scarred. Each sessive blow shattered Hong Jian''s will and confidence bit by bit.


    Many onlookers couldn''t understand what was happening, but Tian Xiaozhi, standing at the edge of the ck Sea, felt a chill in his heart, recognizing Di Xuansha''s terrifying power. Although Di Xuansha hadn''t physically harmed Daoist Hong Jian, he had struck at his pride, confidence, spirit, and soul. If Daoist Hong Jian couldn''t ovee this ordeal, he would be ruined.


    To destroy a Tianji realm expert so thoroughly? Tian Xiaozhi marked Di Xuansha as an extreme threat in his heart.


    Indeed, by the end of the day, Daoist Hong Jian, tormented by Di Xuansha, had be extremely deranged, his hair disheveled, eyes bloodshot, staring in horror at Di Xuansha.


    "You are no match for me," Di Xuansha said, shaking his head.


    "No~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Daoist Hong Jian let out a desperate roar. He was acutely aware of the fear that this day had instilled in him. If he couldn''t defeat Di Xuansha, if he couldn''t ovee this hurdle, his path in the way of the sword woulde to a standstill, or even regress, never progressing again. He would never be able to break through and would only await death. He had to defeat the man in white before him, he must.


    "Great Hong Sword Technique, Final Form, Celestial River Torrent~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Daoist Hong Jian unleashed his ultimate move, one that was still iplete. This move consumed enormous energy, and using it in its current, unfinished state would cause his blood to flow in reverse, leading to severe injuries, possibly even self-destruction.


    But Daoist Hong Jian could no longer bear it. Perhaps he wanted to make onest desperate effort. He had to defeat him, he had to!


    With a swing of his sword, boundless sword energy gathered towards the Great Hong Sword, rushing at Di Xuansha. The powerful impact forced everyone to retreat repeatedly. It was a magnificent scene as the endless sword energy coalesced into a long river, slicing through space.


    A celestial river of swords, descending from the heavens, roaring towards Di Xuansha with immense power and boundless might, seemingly intent on overwhelming him.


    Numerous strong cultivators felt a sense of dread, their eyes wide with fear.


    In the distance, Di Xuansha showed no fear, only a cold smile at the corner of his mouth. Almost simultaneously, he thrust his sword towards Daoist Hong Jian.


    The final form? Celestial River Torrent?


    Everyone''s eyes widened. How could this be? The man in white had never seen this move before; it was Daoist Hong Jian''s first time using it. How could he possibly replicate it simultaneously? Moreover, the overwhelming aura he exuded surpassed that of Daoist Hong Jian.


    Naturally, Daoist Hong Jian was the most shocked.


    With a swing of his sword, blood surged in reverse through his body, causing immense pain, but no physical pain couldpare to the heartache. The man in white had also unleashed the same sword technique, and even more powerfully than he had. How could this be? How could this be?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The two celestial rivers of swords collided fiercely, creating a massive ck hole that rapidly expanded.


    "Pu~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Daoist Hong Jian spat out a mouthful of blood, not from being injured by Di Xuansha but from sheer anxiety. The turmoil in his heart caused him to cough up blood, and he immediately copsed, weakened.


    The enormous ck hole engulfed both Di Xuansha and Daoist Hong Jian, rendering them invisible to the onlookers.


    As the ck hole gradually filled with space again, everyone could finally see what had happened inside.


    Di Xuan Sha stood serenely, his white robe immacte, untouched by any damage. Across from him, another Daoist from Ye Qingcheng''s entourage was supporting Daoist Hong Jian.


    Daoist Hong Jian looked utterly spent, his hair disheveled, appearing years older in an instant. Blood dripped from his mouth as he appeared on the verge of copse.


    "Why? Why do you know even this move? I never demonstrated it. Why?" Despite his grievous injuries, Daoist Hong Jian kept asking.


    "The preceding 3,600 forms were already there. Deriving the final move from them wasn''t difficult," Di Xuan Sha responded with a hint of disdain.


    "Pu!" Daoist Hong Jian spat out another mouthful of blood before copsing into unconsciousness. Genius? He had always been hailed as a genius, but howughable that seemed now. If he was a genius, what did that make the man in white before him?


    The spectators were stunned by the oue, but more than that, they were in awe of Di Xuan Sha. Who was this man? Such a prodigy that he could so easily turn the once-vaunted genius, Daoist Hong Jian, into a broken man.


    Had Di Xuan Sha even tried his best? Certainly not!


    "Ye Qingcheng, I don''t need to state the result of the first match, do I?" a voice suddenly rang out from afar��Zhong Shan''s voice.


    Only now did everyone turn their attention to Zhong Shan. The man in white appeared to be Zhong Shan''s subordinate? A subordinate? Such an extraordinary prodigy, a mere subordinate?


    "The first match is yours," Ye Qingcheng said, showing remarkableposure.


    Tian Xiaozhi, the official judge, waspletely ignored by both sides. There was no need for his ruling.


    Another Daoist from Ye Qingcheng''s side carried Hong Jian away, ring at Di Xuan Sha with intense hatred.


    "For the second match, we''ll still use him," Zhong Shan said, pointing to Di Xuan Sha.


    At this moment, everyone understood why Zhong Shan had only brought two people for the three matches. The man in white was enough to handle two matches on his own.


    Ye Qingcheng nced at another Daoist beside him. This Daoist set down Hong Jian and flew out, nodding in acknowledgment.


    "I am Dao Kuang," the Daoist said in a deep voice. With a flick of his wrist, he produced a blood-red longsword.


    "A sword?" Di Xuan Sha smiled faintly.


    Suddenly, mes emerged in his hand, and the Great Hong Sword he had just used was thrown into the fire. Under Di Xuan Sha''s control, it began to transform.


    "What is he doing?" a startled expert among the spectators eximed.


    "Refining a sword?" another onlooker responded, equally shocked.


    "A sword identical to Dao Kuang''s?"


    Everyone suddenly realized something. Could this man in white be not just a master of swordsmanship but also an unparalleled expert in the way of the sword? Was he nning to ''teach'' Dao Kuang by using Dao Kuang''s own sword techniques?


    As this possibility dawned on them, nearly all the experts trembled with excitement. This battle was turning out to be even more thrilling and spectacr than they had imagined. After this fight, this man''s fame would undoubtedly spread across the entire underworld.


    Ye Qingcheng raised an eyebrow, seeming to gradually understand something. Tian Xiaozhi watched coldly from the sidelines, while in the distance, Zhong Shan smiled faintly. Sword techniques? Di Xuan Sha''s mastery wasn''t confined to swords or sabers alone. His level was far beyond what these second-rate Daoists could ever hope toprehend.

 Chapter 741: Assault on the Ageless Realm

    <h4>Chapter 741: Assault on the Ageless Realm</h4>


    In the southern regions of the underworld, within a secluded city, a female elder of the Tian Family sat cross-legged. Eight strands of golden silk extended from her fingers, seemingly floating in the air, connecting to eight different directions as if she could control the surroundings with these threads alone. Suddenly, one of the threads twitched slightly, and the elder''s eyes snapped open, her brow furrowing slightly.


    At the same time, atop the city walls of a Dazhen city, a male elder from the Yang world watched the distant copsing mountain peaks. Beside him stood Yi Yan.


    "Elder Tian, what do you think?" Yi Yan asked calmly.


    "Indeed. Initially, I was unsure, for this is an ancient secret method of the Tian Family, unknown even to me. But now I am certain, it is the Eight Silk Net Heaven Formation. Unexpectedly, the underworld''s feng shui inheritance surpasses that of the yang world," the elder Tian nodded, sighing.


    "Can it be broken?" Yi Yan inquired.


    "The Eight Silk Net Heaven Formation can indeed be broken by me now. There are three methods of breaking it, each leading to different oues," the elder Tian responded.


    "Oh? borate," Yi Yan said, slightly surprised.


    In the southwestern regions of the underworld, a vast expanse of foresty before them. This was the Ageless Realm, once visited by Hao Meili. The mountains destroyed by Hao Meili''s ''Endless Wave'' had beenpletely restored, but her curse was too potent; the vegetation in this area had yet to regrow, leaving it barren and deste.


    The surroundings were filled with numerous formations, and cultivators had once again taken up positions around the periphery.


    In a secluded valley, Zhong Shan asked, "Have you found it?"


    "Yes, no matter how the terrain is altered, the dragon veins'' direction never changes. I have already reversed the mountain''s course, and we are ready to begin," Mud Buddha replied.


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded, as did the others.


    Mud Buddha focused, producing a white orb of light, which he gently embedded into the ground.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The surrounding mountains began to tremble, with peaks rising and falling. In an instant, the earth was turbulent, and chaos reigned.


    "What''s happening?"


    "An earthquake?"


    "The mountains are moving?"


    "Quick, inform the elders, hurry!"


    Chaos erupted outside the Ageless Realm as the unexpected upheaval startled the guards. Suddenly, a thunderous boom echoed from a distant, vast area. All eyes turned to the source.


    There, instead of copsing, a towering mountain suddenly appeared, as if it had been invisible all this time, and then it abruptly copsed.


    "What is that?"


    "Where did that mountaine from?"


    "There are many pces on it!"


    Just at that moment, a figure suddenly flew out from the center pce of the Immortal Realm known as the ''Ageless Pce''.


    It was a woman, evidently someone of high status in the Ageless Pce. As soon as she emerged, she felt the world around her shaking violently, the ground quaking, and a distant thunderous noise as a towering mountain copsed out of thin air.


    Seeing the mountain copse, the woman''s face changed dramatically.


    "The Path of Yin and Yang has copsed? This is bad, we''re under attack!" she eximed in shock.


    "Elder!" Several cultivators flew over immediately.


    "Quickly, enter the Ageless Pce and inform all the elders, including the Grand Elder. We''re under attack, hurry, hurry, hurry!" the woman shouted urgently.


    "Yes!" The group quickly flew into the Ageless Pce.


    "An invader? You dare call me an invader?" Suddenly, a young girl''s voice echoed in the sky.


    The woman turned her head to look.


    "Hao Meili?"


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With the woman''s furious shout, a thunderp resounded in the sky, as she invoked the heavens to defy the curse of the world.


    It was nighttime, the sky filled with scattered stars, which suddenly shone brilliantly. Endless starlight descended from the heavens. Among them, 361 stars shone exceptionally brightly. In an instant, a web-like pattern of eerie starlight enveloped the sky. The starlight, forming a, was both bizarre and unfathomable. Everything within its embrace was frozen, even the wind came to an abrupt halt.


    "The Great Luo Heavenly Star Formation?" the elder woman gasped in rm.


    The elder tried to retreat.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The pce of the Ageless Realm was crushed into powder by the formation, revealing a massive circr entrance. The entrance emitted a dazzling golden light.


    The elder woman found herself unable to move.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The elder seemed to activate a secret technique, spitting out a mouthful of blood that shattered the surrounding space in a small radius, allowing her to regain her mobility. She quickly darted into the depths of the Ageless Pce.


    "Move!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    Hao Meili, Yin Luoyue, and others swiftly followed Zhong Shan into the Ageless Pce.


    The Great Luo Heavenly Star Formation outside suddenly withdrew, allowing Nangong Sheng to enter as well.


    In the initial assault, everyone outside perished, the pces turned to ruins, and the mountainsrgely copsed.


    At this moment, a man in blue robes suddenly appeared at the entrance of the Ageless Pce.


    "Zhong Shan? Is it Zhong Shan? Wasn''t he supposed to be gambling with the Realm Master in the ck Sea? A conspiracy? A grand conspiracy, I must notify the Realm Master, no, I must first inform the elder in the Five-Colored Empire, and have him notify the Realm Master as fast as possible," the blue-robed man said in panic.


    "sh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A thin purple sword pierced through the blue-robed man''s chest. With a flick of the sword, the man was split in two, his very soul shattered. As the blue-robed man fell, he revealed the figure behind him��Dark Emperor, the chiefmander of the shadow guards of the Great Exia Empire!


    The Dark Emperor only followed orders from Zhong Shan. Even the high-ranking ministers of the Great Exia knew little about him, for he always operated in the shadows. This time, following Zhong Shan to besiege the Ageless Pce, he remained in the dark, handling various tasks for Zhong Shan.


    The Ageless Pce contained eleven sacred mountains, with one central mountain surrounded by ten others in arge circle, spread in all directions.


    The eleven sacred mountains each served a specific purpose and held a unique position. One of these mountains, located in a remote area with particrly dense yin energy, was where the Immortal Realm imprisoned its most important captives. This ce was called the ''Ageless Sacred Prison''.


    The Sacred Prison was surrounded by mountain peaks arranged like the petals of a lotus flower, with each petal housing a prison cell. The sky above the Ageless Sacred Prison was perpetually shrouded in dark clouds, creating an oppressive atmosphere that made it hard for those within to breathe.


    At this moment, outside one of the petal-like mountains, a figure appeared��Zhong Shan, dressed in an imposing ck robe.


    Zhong Shan looked up at the Ageless Sacred Prison before him.


    "What a dense array!" Zhong Shan smirked coldly.


    The Ageless Sacred Prison was enveloped in countless formations, making it an unbreakable fortress. There were thirty-six petal-like peaks in total, with a central main peak that was the Sacred Mountain.


    Zhong Shan gazed up at the Sacred Mountain, noticing some houses at the summit. At the very top, a small cluster of merit light shone down, causing a golden rose to bloom below it.


    A Merit Rose? The rose emitted a soft glow, instilling a sense of tranquility in anyone who looked at it.


    "Another kind of rose?" Zhong Shan''s lips curled into a faint smile.


    Then, Zhong Shan''s expression hardened, his smile fading as he began to study the thirty-six petal-like peaks.


    Inside the Ageless Sacred Prison was someone Zhong Shan needed to rescue.


    Within one of the petal-like peaks.


    In a dim environment surrounded by bones, a beautiful woman sat in the corner, encircled by the skeletal remains. Her name was Nian Youyou, dressed in a gold robe, looking extremely disheveled with her hair scattered, leaning against the wall with a look of hatred in her eyes.


    Standing before Nian Youyou was a man with purple hair, the same man who had been entangled with Gu Qianyou during the fight for the Book of Earth at the Sea of Blood, ultimately causing the Immortal Realm''s n to fail.


    "Junior Sister, this is the Realm Master''s restriction. Don''t even think about breaking it. You''ll never regain your power. Before me, you''re as insignificant as an ant!" the purple-haired man said with a faint smile.


    "Hmph, you ruined the Immortal Realm''s grand n and served a hundred years in the Ageless Sacred Prison, and yet you remain unscathed?" Nian Youyou''s eyes turned cold.


    "Hahaha, I''m not bound by restrictions because my great-grandfather is the master of this Sacred Mountain. As long as I don''t stray too far from this mountain, no one can touch me," the purple-haired manughed.


    "Gloomy-faced Daoist is your great-grandfather?" Nian Youyou raised an eyebrow.


    "Exactly. That''s why I can move freely here. How about this? If you agree to be my Daoistpanion, I''ll have my great-grandfather lift your restrictions," the purple-haired man said with a wicked smile.


    "Lift my restrictions? Hahaha, he wouldn''t dare!" Nian Youyou sneered.


    "Wouldn''t dare? Perhaps. But once the Realm Master returns from the ck Sea after killing Zhong Shan and retrieving the Ancestral Divine Beast, it will be your end. If you be my Daoistpanion, my great-grandfather can plead on your behalf!" the purple-haired man continued to tempt her.


    "What did you say? Kill who?" Nian Youyou''s face changed.


    "You didn''t know? Well, it makes sense. How could you know anything locked up here? Zhong Shan and the Realm Master are gambling in the ck Sea over the ownership of the Ancestral Divine Beast and the Immortal Stele. Didn''t you know?" the purple-haired man chuckled.


    "Zhong Shan? Zhong Shan...!" Nian Youyou''s expression turned anxious.


    "I''m telling you, you might as well..." the purple-haired man continued.


    "Get out! Get out of here!" Nian Youyou snapped, her expression turning icy.

 Chapter 742: The Immortals of Two Paths

    <h4>Chapter 742: The Immortals of Two Paths</h4>


    Nian Youyou''s expression turned cold. "Get out, leave now!"


    "Leave?" The purple-haired man''s eyes narrowed.


    "Do you know where you are? Is this your home? You''re telling me to leave? This is the Ageless Sacred Prison, my territory, and you want me to leave? Hmph, you insolent wench!" The purple-haired man''s anger red at Nian Youyou''s provocation.


    Nian Youyou looked coldly at the purple-haired man. "Are you done talking? If so, you can leave now!" she said icily.


    Seeing that his words hadn''t angered her, the purple-haired man felt a surge of frustration.


    "Today, you must give me an answer. I''m giving you one more chance. Will you be my Daoistpanion or not?" the purple-haired man asked coldly.


    "No, now leave!" Nian Youyou refused again.


    The purple-haired man''s eyes grew colder as he stared at Nian Youyou, remaining silent as if he was brewing something sinister.


    The atmosphere was tense, and Nian Youyou frowned at the purple-haired man, unsure of what he was nning.


    Suddenly, with a thud, the purple-haired man dropped to his knees. The unexpected move stunned Nian Youyou.


    "Youyou, you know I can''t live without you. Please, be my Daoistpanion, Youyou. I beg you, I''ll give you anything, just please..." The purple-haired man''s demeanor suddenly changed to one of abject groveling, crawling towards Nian Youyou, his face full of desperation and supplication.


    "Youyou, Youyou, I can''t live without you. Every night..." The purple-haired man crawled closer to Nian Youyou, reaching out to grab her, in stark contrast to his earlier menacing demeanor.


    The sudden shift made Nian Youyou frown. She had never seen a man behave like this.


    "Youyou, Youyou, be my Daoistpanion, be mine..." His hand almost reached Nian Youyou, his behavior utterly degrading and disgusting.


    "Get away, get away, get away!" Nian Youyou, sitting in the corner, kept kicking him away, but the purple-haired man continued crawling back.


    "Youyou..."


    "Get away..."


    "Bang~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a powerful kick, Nian Youyou sent the purple-haired man flying eight zhang away, crashing into a pile of bones.


    "Leave me alone! It''s impossible between us!" Nian Youyou dered resolutely.


    This time, the purple-haired man didn''t crawl back. Instead, he slowly stood up, his eyes turning red with rage.


    "You insolent wench, I begged you so humbly, and you didn''t give me any face at all!" He spat out his resentment.


    Nian Youyou stared at him coldly.


    "Wench, if I can''t have your heart, then I''ll take your body!" The purple-haired man''s expression turned maniacal, his eyes filled with malicious intent.


    "What are you nning to do?" Nian Youyou asked coldly.


    "What do you think? I''m going to force myself on you, hahaha!" The purple-haired manughed wickedly.


    "Senior Brother, you dare to touch me? Are you looking to die?" Nian Youyou''s voice turned icy.


    "Looking to die? Here, I am the greatest. You were already a dead person walking. Death? Even if I were to dispose of you in any way I see fit, no one would plead for you. After today, I''ll ask my great-grandfather to grant you to me, and then you''ll see how I train you. Hahaha, by then, you''ll be begging me to touch you. Hahaha!" The purple-haired man walked towards Nian Youyou.


    "Take another step and I''ll kill you!" Nian Youyou said coldly.


    "Kill? Go ahead, kill me. I''d like to see how you''ll do that. Your powers have been sealed by the Realm Master, you''re practically a cripple now. Go on, kill me. Or better yet, let me ''touch'' you. I''ll make you die from happiness!" The purple-haired man lunged towards Nian Youyou.


    As he was about to reach her, Nian Youyou''s eyes turned icy, her pupils shrinking. Her dark pupils suddenly transformed into a brilliant gold, shining brightly.


    A sh of golden light erupted, filling the entire cell with a radiant glow. Everything bathed in this light turned golden, including the purple-haired man. For an instant, he found himself immobilized.


    Under the lock of Nian Youyou''s golden pupils, the purple-haired man could not move. The golden light enveloped him, rapidly turning his clothes into golden robes, even transforming his hair into golden locks. It was a strange and eerie transformation.


    Nian Youyou was ''goldifying'' herself, turning her entire being into gold?


    Paralyzed under her golden gaze, the purple-haired man felt as insignificant as an ant, those eyes looking down on him like the heavens themselves.


    "Pupil Technique? How can you have Pupil Technique? Impossible, it''s impossible!" The purple-haired, no, the golden-haired man screamed in terror.


    He noticed his skin was also turning to gold.


    "Nothing is impossible!" Nian Youyou said coldly.


    "No, I checked your ancestry. That ancestor who became an immortal, he had no Pupil Technique. He never had this ability, and you couldn''t have created it yourself. Impossible, impossible!" The man shouted in disbelief.


    "My father had the bloodline inheritance, why couldn''t my mother?" Nian Youyou said icily.


    A bead of sweat appeared on Nian Youyou''s forehead.


    "Mother? Your mother was also a descendant of an immortal?" The man''s pupils shrank in shock.


    At that moment, his legs hadpletely turned to gold.


    Death was imminent; if the gold reached his chest, there would be no saving him.


    Nian Youyou seemed to be struggling greatly, but she was determined to goldify himpletely, knowing that if she didn''t, she would be in grave danger herself.


    "Ha!"


    Suddenly, the man opened his mouth and spat out a waterfall-like torrent, which expanded as it rushed towards Nian Youyou.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The impact sent Nian Youyou crashing headfirst into the wall, leaving her dizzy and disoriented.


    Despite her Pupil Technique, her entire cultivation had been sealed by Ye Qingcheng, leaving her physically weak.


    After the waterfall''s impact, Nian Youyou sat dazed on the ground, her head throbbing with pain.


    Her golden pupils reverted back to ck, but the entire cell had been transformed into gold.


    The floor was covered with golden skeletons, the walls were golden, and the man had been partially goldified. With Nian Youyou severely injured, the man could move again. He quickly activated his remaining power to dispel the effects of the Pupil Technique.


    His hair slowly turned back to purple, and his feet began to recover.


    The waterfall he had spat out turned into a small pool-shaped artifact, containing arge amount of water.


    Having narrowly escaped death, the man''s beastly nature dissipated. With lingering fear, he looked at Nian Youyou, a cold glint shing in his eyes as he walked forward. He grabbed her by the neck and lifted her up.


    "Kill me? You want to kill me? In the Ageless Realm, I''m so distinguished, yet I almost died at your hands? Hmph!" The purple-haired man''s demeanor turned extremely cold.


    Nian Youyou''s face flushed red as he choked her, tears squeezed out from her eyes.


    "I''m asking you, is there another man in your heart? Is that why you refuse me?" the purple-haired man snarled.


    Though in agony from the choking, a soft expression momentarily crossed Nian Youyou''s face as her mind drifted to a tall figure. A figure that had once brought her countless roses. Thinking of this person, a gentle smile formed on her lips amidst the pain.


    "Who is it? Who is it?" the purple-haired man demanded angrily.


    Nian Youyou felt her life slipping away, death creeping closer. The tall figure in her mind might be facing the same fate against Ye Qingcheng. With a bittersweet smile, she thought that even if they couldn''t be together in life, at least they might share the same end.


    Seeing Nian Youyou''s expression, the purple-haired man became even more enraged.


    "I''m asking you again, who is he? Tell me, who is he?" The purple-haired man tightened his grip, his voice filled with fury.


    Just as Nian Youyou resigned herself to death and the purple-haired man spiraled into madness, a new figure suddenly appeared behind him.


    "Perhaps, it''s me."


    The unexpected voice caused the purple-haired man''s hairs to stand on end, like a thief caught in the act by a guard.


    Instinctively, he loosened his grip and quickly jumped back.


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhong Shan swiftly scooped up the copsing Nian Youyou.


    Nian Youyou''s heart skipped a beat at the familiar voice. It couldn''t be true��she must be dreaming. She must have died to hear his voice. But in the afterlife, could souls truly reunite? And even then, could they escape the purple-haired man?


    She opened her eyes, still seeking death, and saw Zhong Shan holding her.


    Staring at Zhong Shan, Nian Youyou became momentarily entranced.


    Zhong Shan didn''t look at the purple-haired man but instead at the bruises on Nian Youyou''s neck, gently healing them with his power.


    As he tended to her wounds, Zhong Shan turned a cold gaze towards the purple-haired man.


    The purple-haired man, seeing Zhong Shan holding Nian Youyou, felt a surge of jealousy. When Zhong Shan''s icy eyes met his, he felt his very soul freeze.


    How could this be? The purple-haired man grew more fearful.


    "How did you get in here? How did you bypass the formation? Without my great-grandfather''s token, it''s impossible to enter. Who are you?" the purple-haired man stammered, swallowing hard.


    "Who am I? You don''t recognize me?" Zhong Shan''s voice was chillingly cold.


    Don''t be afraid. I''m at the Emperor Extreme Realm. Don''t be afraid. The purple-haired man tried to bolster his courage, carefully scrutinizing Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan? You''re Zhong Shan? It''s you. Weren''t you supposed to be gambling with the Realm Master? Weren''t you at the ck Sea?" the purple-haired man screamed in shock.


    Although he believed that Zhong Shan would surely die against the Realm Master, the purple-haired man knew that anyone who could be taken seriously by the Realm Master was far beyond his own ability to contend with.

 Chapter 743: The Grim-faced Daoist

    <h4>Chapter 743: The Grim-faced Daoist</h4>


    The moment the purple-haired man recognized Zhong Shan, his initial jealousy vanished, reced by a bone-chilling fear. The only thought that consumed him was to escape! But could he flee from Zhong Shan?


    "Hummmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!"


    Zhong Shan''s aura locked onto him, an overwhelming pressure bearing down. It was too easy for someone at the Sky Extreme Realm to suppress someone at the Emperor Extreme Realm.


    The purple-haired man found himself unable to move.


    "What do you want to do with him?" Zhong Shan gently touched Nian Youyou''s neck.


    The bruises from the purple-haired man''s grip slowly faded. Zhong Shan then ced a finger on Nian Youyou''s forehead, dispelling Ye Qingcheng''s seal with a single touch.


    Nian Youyou''s body rxed as her power surged back into her. Yet, she seemed oblivious, staring dazedly at Zhong Shan.


    It was only when Zhong Shan asked again that Nian Youyou began to regain her senses.


    "Am I dreaming?" Nian Youyou asked, her voice trembling.


    "Xiaoqing has been with you for so many years. You should know whether this is a dream or not," Zhong Shan said with a gentle smile.


    "It''s not a dream. It''s not a dream, I know it''s not a dream!" Tears of joy streamed from Nian Youyou''s eyes.


    "What do you want to do with him?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    At that moment, Nian Youyou seemed reluctant to leave Zhong Shan''s embrace. She took one more longing look at him before finally stepping out of his arms and approaching the purple-haired man. With a swift motion, she grabbed a white token from his robes.


    The purple-haired man''s eyes were filled with terror.


    Nian Youyou''s gaze turned cold, her ck pupils shrinking before her golden pupils reappeared.


    The purple-haired man''s face turned ashen, but he couldn''t move.


    "Hummmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!"


    This time, it happened much faster. In just an instant, the purple-haired man was turned into a golden statue. With her powers restored, Nian Youyou''s Pupil Technique was unstoppable.


    In a blink of an eye, the Emperor Extreme Realm expert was dead, turned into a golden statue by Nian Youyou''s powerful technique.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at the white token in Nian Youyou''s hand.


    "It''s the token to enter the Ageless Sacred Prison. Don''t you have one?" Nian Youyou asked, puzzled.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly but didn''t say much.


    "Let''s go. We need to leave!" Zhong Shan said directly.


    "Okay!" Nian Youyou nodded.


    As they made their way out, they passed numerous guards lying unconscious on the ground, evidently dealt with by Zhong Shan earlier.


    Once they left the petal-like mountain, the white token emitted a soft white light, enveloping Nian Youyou in a protective glow.


    "What about you?" Nian Youyou asked, slightly worried.


    "I don''t need it," Zhong Shan said with a faint smile, pulling Nian Youyou along as they moved towards the outside.


    Nian Youyou felt a surge of anxiety. She knew the formidable power of the formations surrounding the Ageless Sacred Prison, formidable enough to deter even those at the Sky Extreme Realm. The formations represented millennia of umtion in the Ageless Realm. A single token could only allow one person to pass through. What about Zhong Shan?


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhong Shan led Nian Youyou as they soared through the air.


    From initial worry about Zhong Shan, Nian Youyou''s concern turned to astonishment as she watched in disbelief. How could this be possible?


    Even with the token, passing through the formation caused a slight ripple. However, when Zhong Shan passed through, the formation remainedpletely undisturbed, as if it hadn''t detected him at all. How was this possible?


    In no time, the two exited the Ageless Sacred Prison.


    They reached the peak of a distant mountain.


    "Zhong Shan, how are you here? Why did youe?" Nian Youyou asked, her face filled with confusion.


    "I''m here to destroy the Ageless Realm," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Destroy? Destroy the Ageless Realm? How is that possible? Destr��" Nian Youyou''s voice suddenly stopped.


    From their vantage point, they could see another sacred mountain in the distance. The ground and sky around it were swarming with an endless horde of zombies. Whoever was bitten by a zombie became a zombie themselves, and the numbers were growing exponentially, closing in on the sacred mountain.


    The scene was grand and horrifying��an epic battle between humans and zombies, with blood raining from the sky and scattered corpses everywhere. This was a true battlefield.


    Moreover, a colossal creature was battling an elder of the Ageless Realm. The creature was hideous and pitch ck.


    "A Heaven Ghost?" Nian Youyou eximed.


    "Now do you believe me?" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Nian Youyou looked at him, her expression filled with astonishment.


    "Wait here for me. Don''t go anywhere, stay right here!" Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Huh? Okay," Nian Youyou nodded, still puzzled but obedient.


    Zhong Shan''s figure flickered as he swiftly headed back towards the Ageless Sacred Prison.


    Watching his movements, Nian Youyou frowned, her eyes full of confusion.


    Zhong Shan moved at lightning speed, returning to the Ageless Sacred Prison in no time. He nced at the formation before darting inside.


    This was his shadow body. Formations were ineffective against his shadow form. So far, no formation had been able to trap him.


    Inside, Zhong Shan didn''t hesitate. He headed straight for the summit of the sacred mountain, aiming for the golden ''Merit Rose'' beneath the small patch of merit.


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    In the distance, Nian Youyou realized what Zhong Shan intended to do. Seeing him rush towards the rose, she almost screamed, covering her mouth with her hands.


    A rose?��


    "What do you want me to give you?"


    "Flowers. I like roses. There are three thousand types of roses in the world. I want you to pick one of each kind and give it to me personally, and with each one, say a romantic line to me. How about that?"


    "How long do I have?"


    "Complete it within a hundred years."


    "Alright!"��


    Memories of that past conversation flooded Nian Youyou''s mind. He remembered? He still remembered? Tears of gratitude and happiness welled up in her eyes. An indescribable joy filled her heart.


    Laughing and crying simultaneously, Nian Youyou''s emotions were extremely unstable.


    Suddenly, herughter and tears stopped, reced by an expression of extreme fear. A rose? The Merit Rose? And there was a Sky Extreme Realm expert guarding it, the Grim-faced Daoist.


    What should she do? What should she do?


    Nian Youyou became extremely anxious and began to tremble. She was about to rush over when she recalled Zhong Shan''s words: "Don''t leave, stay right here."


    At the same time, Nian Youyou suddenly realized that Zhong Shan''s current strength was far beyond hers. He was now at the Sky Extreme Realm, and even if she went, she wouldn''t be able to help!


    In the distance, Zhong Shan had already reached the base of the sacred mountain and was quickly ascending.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A thunderous roar erupted from the sky. The previously dark clouds suddenly transformed into a pale ''heaven,'' a color like ashes, exuding a lifeless, grim aura.


    "You insolent thief, how dare you cause trouble in the Ageless Realm!" a voice thundered from the sky.


    Zhong Shan''s rapid ascent had clearly drawn the attention of a supreme expert on the sacred mountain.


    Unfazed, Zhong Shan continued his swift ascent.


    "Scoundrel~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a furious roar, the great formations surrounding the sacred mountain activated, their operations bursting forth in a myriad of colors, dazzling yet filled with immense power.


    However, none of this affected Zhong Shan. His shadow body waspletely undeterred, and in no time, he reached the summit of the mountain.


    Outside the pce on the mountain stood a man in a gray robe. His face was paralyzed, and arge, ugly birthmark covered his left eye, making him look grotesque. His eyes red fiercely at Zhong Shan. It was clear that this man, who had beenmanding the formations, was the Grim-faced Daoist, the master of this sacred mountain.


    As Zhong Shan ascended, he nced at the Grim-faced Daoist halfway up the mountain. Seeing this grotesque figure, Zhong Shan was momentarily speechless.


    "No wonder he''s called the Grim-faced Daoist. With a face like that, the name suits him perfectly!" Zhong Shan muttered to himself, noting that this was the most unattractive Sky Extreme Realm expert he had ever seen. Even the notoriously ugly Tiao would look handsome inparison.


    Seeing the disdain in Zhong Shan''s eyes, the Grim-faced Daoist''s anger red. He had always hated being looked down upon because of his appearance. This intruder not only trespassed into the Ageless Realm but also dared to scorn him. How could he let such an insult stand?


    Thinking that Zhong Shan must have obtained a token to bypass the formations, the Grim-faced Daoist was not overly surprised. He flipped his hand, and arge ck appeared, which he cast towards Zhong Shan.


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhong Shan slipped through the gaps in the effortlessly.


    "How is this possible?" The Grim-faced Daoist was astonished.


    In that brief moment, Zhong Shan had already reached the summit, where the Merit Rose grew.


    Standing before the Merit Rose, Zhong Shan ignored the grotesque figure and carefully began to pluck the rose.


    From a distance, Nian Youyou watched anxiously.


    "Scoundrel, take your filthy hands off that!" the Grim-faced Daoist roared in fury.


    With a swift movement, he charged towards Zhong Shan, brandishing a ck de and shing down with immense force. The powerful de aura shook the very space around them.


    Zhong Shan, now holding the plucked rose, calmly evaded the strike, moving with an uncanny agility that made it seem as though he was disappearing and reappearing somewhere else, defying all logic.


    The Grim-faced Daoist was stunned by this strange maneuver. However, there was no time to ponder Zhong Shan''s seemingly illogical movement. He quicklyunched another attack with his other hand, aiming directly at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan continued to move with an eerie fluidity, dodging the attacks with ease while holding the Merit Rose delicately. His movements were precise and effortless, disying a mastery that left the Grim-faced Daoist both enraged and bewildered.

 Chapter 744: Not a Mortal鈥檚 Speed

    <h4>Chapter 744: Not a Mortal''s Speed</h4>


    After dodging the sh and plucking the rose, Zhong Shan felt much more at ease. The Grim-faced Daoist, with a palm brimming with deathly white energy, struck towards Zhong Shan, who held the rose carefully and gave the Daoist a mocking smile.


    The next moment, Zhong Shan''s figure flickered and vanished.


    The Grim-faced Daoist''s pupils constricted. Vanished? How?


    His palm, unable to halt mid-strike, found only empty air, while Zhong Shan reappeared behind him.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Zhong Shan''s palm mmed into the Daoist''s back with tremendous force, delivering a super-heavy blow.


    "Pfft~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Grim-faced Daoist spat out a mouthful of blood, hurtling towards the summit of the sacred mountain.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    He crashed into a massive boulder, shattering it, and then rose into the air, staring at Zhong Shan in shock.


    Too fast. Zhong Shan''s speed was too fast. The Grim-faced Daoist, a Sky Extreme Realm expert, couldn''t even see Zhong Shan''s movements. One moment he vanished, the next he appeared. How was this possible? How could anyone move so quickly?


    It was as if Zhong Shan''s speed transcended mortal limits, leaving even a Sky Extreme Realm expert behind. Speed��this was the greatest advantage of his shadow form. Among those of the same realm, none could match it. At the Sky Extreme Realm, there were few in the world who could keep up with Zhong Shan.


    "You''re Zhong Shan? How are you here?" the Grim-faced Daoist asked in sudden realization.


    Zhong Shan didn''t bother answering. A dying man wasn''t worth his breath.


    With a swift motion, Zhong Shan drew a long sword��his imperial sword, the Immortal Sword.


    The moment the Grim-faced Daoist saw Zhong Shan''s sword, his hair stood on end, a chilling fear coursing down his spine. Instinctively, he dodged to the side.


    "Shing~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    But he was a moment too slow. The sword shed his arm, spraying blood. The strike, a perfect assassination blow, showed no outward sign until it hit, then disyed its devastating power.


    The Immortal Sword? The sword from behind was Zhong Shan''s Immortal Sword? Then what about the figure in front of him?


    Looking back, the Grim-faced Daoist saw that Zhong Shan had already vanished from sight.


    Too fast. Zhong Shan''s speed was blinding, leaving only an afterimage behind, moving at a pace that mortal eyes could barely capture.


    Fear gripped the Grim-faced Daoist. Such speed? Only the Realm Master at full power could possibly match this.


    Too fast!


    "Shing~! Shing~! Shing~! Shing~! Shing~!"


    Zhong Shan did not give the Daoist any chance to react. Each sword strike was faster than thest, each movement swifter. The Grim-faced Daoist could only glimpse Zhong Shan for an instant after each strike before he vanished again.


    It was a terrifying assassination. He was being attacked right before his eyes, but he couldn''t see it.


    Had it not been for his instincts, the Grim-faced Daoist would have already fallen to Zhong Shan''s deadly blows. Even so, the Sky Extreme Realm expert was covered in blood from head to toe.


    Terror filled the Grim-faced Daoist''s eyes. He was utterly powerless to fight back. How could this be? Was he just going to be stabbed to death, one strike at a time?


    Moreover, the Grim-faced Daoist had no chance of escaping. Every attempt to flee met with another of Zhong Shan''s swift strikes. Zhong Shan was too fast.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Grim-faced Daoist let out a fierce roar as Zhong Shan''s sword sliced deeply into his arm, exposing bone.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The area around the sacred mountain suddenly became a kaleidoscope of colors as the Grim-faced Daoist desperately activated the internal formations, hoping to use the array against Zhong Shan.


    But the formations were useless against Zhong Shan. His shadow body moved through them as if strolling through a gentle breeze. While the Grim-faced Daoist tried to manipte the formations, Zhong Shan''s Immortal Sword shredded another third of his flesh. The scene resembled the ancient punishment of death by a thousand cuts.


    The formations werepletely ineffective against Zhong Shan. The Grim-faced Daoist suddenly realized how close to death he was. No wonder the Realm Master took Zhong Shan so seriously.


    Fear, no, sheer terror filled the Grim-faced Daoist. The longer one lived, the more they feared death, and he was no exception.


    Formations were useless? How could this be?


    "Revolving Sacred Mountain!" The Grim-faced Daoist executed another technique.


    At that moment, nothing else mattered. Facing imminent death, what use was a sacred mountain?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The sacred mountain began to copse into the ground.


    Simultaneously, the thirty-six petal-like mountains around it erupted in golden light and began to rise.


    The sacred mountain descended while the petal mountains ascended, as if all the mountain''s power was being transferred to them.


    The Grim-faced Daoist struggled desperately.


    The golden light from the petal mountains formed a lotus-like shape, emitting countless rays of golden light.


    This sudden change caused Zhong Shan to pause momentarily.


    "Merge~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a loud shout from the Grim-faced Daoist, the thirty-six petal mountains appeared above the sacred mountain, copsing together like a closing flower.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Massive stones crashed down, leaving no gaps. It seemed as if everything inside would be crushed to dust.


    The thirty-six petal mountains disappeared, leaving behind only ruins��a ruin formed from the collision of the petal mountains and the sacred mountain, now glowing with golden light, pressing together to form a new, seemingly indestructible sacred mountain.


    Everything that had been buried inside was presumably crushed to nothingness.


    Zhong Shan had vanished.


    "No~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    In the distance, Nian Youyou screamed in agony as she flew towards the sacred mountain.


    The Revolving Sacred Mountain was not a formation but a pure physical attack. It was legendary in the Ageless Realm, known to have buried a Sky Extreme Realm expert alive. Had Zhong Shan just been buried alive as well?


    The thought tore at Nian Youyou''s heart. She flew frantically, her mind in a daze, crying out, "I don''t want the rose anymore, I don''t want the rose anymore, Zhong Shan, please be safe, please be safe..."


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The sacred mountain was again shrouded in the multicolored array, obscuring everything inside.


    Nian Youyou''s heart filled with dread. She flew desperately, tears streaming down her face.


    "Thud!"


    She crashed into something��Zhong Shan''s chest.


    "Zhong Shan, are you alright?" Nian Youyou eximed in delight, holding Zhong Shan''s face to confirm he was unharmed.


    Her panicked expression, joyful eyes, and tears of relief were emotions so genuine andplex that even her training under Nu Qinghui couldn''t replicate them with such authenticity.


    "How could anything happen to me?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    Nian Youyou hugged him tightly, as if afraid to lose him again.


    Zhong Shan raised his right hand and presented the rose to Nian Youyou.


    "It''s been over a hundred years, and I still haven''t collected all three thousand kinds. This is the 2,997th. I''ll find the remaining three," Zhong Shan said softly.


    Hearing this, Nian Youyou released Zhong Shan and looked at the rose in his hand, her expression nk.


    Zhong Shan, puzzled, saw Nian Youyou biting her lip, tears streaming down her face.


    He extended the rose closer to her. She took it mechanically, her expression a mix of gratitude, happiness, excitement, and guilt.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Nian Youyou shook her head, unwilling to voice her thoughts, clutching the rose in a daze.


    Zhong Shan didn''t press further. The Grim-faced Daoist had been dealt with, and now they needed to see how things were elsewhere.


    "Come, let''s check the other areas!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Okay," Nian Youyou nodded, suddenly bing silent.


    Zhong Shan led Nian Youyou to the sacred mountain where Mr. Corpse was attacking. Seeing that Mr. Corpse had the upper hand, Zhong Shan quickly moved on to the next sacred mountain.


    As they approached, Zhong Shan stopped from a distance. The sky was dark, and the air thick with dense yin energy and countless tiny, poisonous microorganisms. These microorganisms had immense destructive power, corroding everything and spreading curses like a powerful gue.


    It seemed these gues were being controlled by someone. Hao Meili stood at the center, radiating the gues in all directions. Any cultivator caught in the area fell, their bodies oozing pus, a horrifying sight.


    Beside Hao Meili was a Heaven Ghost, and in front of them was an extremely sinister man, the Curse Demon.


    "Hao Meili? You''ve grown stronger. How could your curse techniques be so powerful in just three years? Is this the gue Sect''s inheritance? Have you learned their legacy?" the Curse Demon eximed.


    "I have be stronger. I want you to die a miserable death. I must avenge my master. But you seem weaker. Where is your Curse me? Why isn''t it as strong as it was three years ago? I know now, you must have had some secret treasure then, and it''s not with you now. Hahaha, you''re finished!" Hao Meiliughed menacingly.


    "This area doesn''t need our help. Let''s move on to the next one," Zhong Shan said, pulling Nian Youyou away.


    They left swiftly, heading to the next battleground.

 Chapter 745: The Crystal Clan

    <h4>Chapter 745: The Crystal n</h4>


    The eleven sacred mountains each had outer peaks surrounding a central main peak. Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou made their way toward the central main peak.


    Zhong Shan''s speed was incredible, and it didn''t take long for them to reach the perimeter of the main peak. The main sacred mountain was thergest, at least three times the size of the outer peaks. It was enveloped in a roiling sea of merit, with a colossal tower below, radiating billions of rays of white light.


    Zhong Shan had seen this tower before, shown to him over a year ago in a dream by the Ancestral Divine Beast. It was the Wanxiang Mirror Tower.


    The Mirror Demon Master had once lent this ss-like tower to Ye Qingcheng to capture the Ancestral Divine Beast. The entire surface of the tower reflected human figures like a mirror.


    The Wanxiang Mirror Tower was currently reflecting countless beams of white light, indicating that someone was activating it. The reason for this activation was the sudden appearance of countless stars in the high sky.


    Nangong Sheng was activating the Great Luo Heavenly Star Array. Despite the array''s limited effectiveness within the Ageless Realm, Nangong Sheng, a true master of formations, was still formidable.


    In the Small Thousand World, celestial beings did not have the greatest advantage. Instead, formation masters had the upper hand. Celestial beings were suppressed by the Small Thousand World, whereas formation masters could leverage the world''s power through their formations.


    This was why someone as arrogant as Ye Qingcheng took Nangong Sheng seriously and had even been forced to retreat by him before.


    Nangong Sheng used a formation in conjunction with the Great Luo Heavenly Star Array to epass and seal off the vast area around the main peak, preventing the powerful beings within from escaping.


    Around this formation, there were the phantom images of nine other giant towers, not the Wanxiang Mirror Tower, but Zhong Tian''s Spiritual Abode Towers.


    The nine phantom towers were positioned around the formation, stabilizing the ground and seemingly drawing immense golden light from the earth into the towers.


    Golden light? Zhong Shan looked up at the sea of merit clouds in the sky. As the Spiritual Abode Towers absorbed more golden light, the amount of merit above gradually decreased.


    The merit was being forcibly extracted by the Spiritual Abode Towers from the Ageless Realm.


    In the sky, Nangong Sheng, dressed in blue robes, calmly manipted the formation. At the peak of a nearby mountain, Zhong Tian sat cross-legged, with a treasure tower, the Spiritual Abode Tower, suspended above his head.


    Zhong Shan and Nian Youyounded in front of Zhong Tian. In the sky, Nangong Sheng, noticing Zhong Shan''s arrival, continued his hand movements while descending.


    Zhong Shan looked into the formation. Was that the Mirror Demon Master inside?


    Zhong Shan frowned in astonishment at the figure. Was it even human?


    The figure was entirely transparent, like ss. No, it was as if the entire body was made of crystal. This crystal statue-like being was alive and humanoid.


    A crystal person? Was this the Mirror Demon Master?


    The Mirror Demon Master stared at the sky, seemingly unconcerned with the loss of merit, as if the roiling sea of merit had nothing to do with him. His gaze was fixed on the countless stars of the Great Luo Heavenly Star Array above, particrly the brightest 361 stars.


    Suddenly, the Mirror Demon Master vanished, reappearing high in the sky.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    In the sky, the Mirror Demon Master punched one of the brightest stars. With a thunderous explosion, the star shattered into countless fragments, scattering brilliant starlight everywhere.


    Zhong Shan and the others watched as the star''s destruction sent waves of energy rippling through the array, temporarily disrupting its formation.


    "This is...?" Zhong Shan eximed in astonishment.


    Stars? Shattering? The Small Thousand World wasn''t supposed to have stars, especially not here!


    "Whoosh!"


    Even more bizarre was the Mirror Demon Master reappearing beneath the Wanxiang Mirror Tower in a sh, moving so fast that Zhong Shan realized with shock that his speed matched his own. How could this be?


    In the sky, where the star had just shattered, countless star forces gathered, forming a new star in an instant.


    Zhong Shan frowned. "What''s this?"


    "Your Majesty, this is a pseudo-star formed purely of energy, inspired by the Great Luo Heavenly Star Array. It can function here because it''s a pure energy body. As long as the array remains intact and the star force isn''t exhausted, even if it''s shattered, it can reassemble due to the array," Nangong Sheng exined seriously.


    "And that?" Zhong Shan looked at the transparent form of the Mirror Demon Master.


    A crystalline body��it was too strange.


    Inside the array, the crystalline Mirror Demon Master fixed his gaze on Zhong Shan, looking at him with absolute disdain before turning his attention back to the sky.


    "Can your array keep him trapped?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The 361 main stars��so long as one remains, the array holds. Before Your Majesty arrived, he had shattered over ten stars. Though they reform after being struck, I sense he has discovered the array''s weakness," Nangong Sheng said with a frown.


    "Oh? The 361 stars are spread in different directions in the sky. No matter how fast he is, he can''t shatter them all simultaneously, right?" Zhong Shan pondered.


    "Indeed," Nangong Sheng nodded, but his eyes still showed concern.


    At that moment, a bizarre scene unfolded.


    The Mirror Demon Master approached the Wanxiang Mirror Tower. With a reflection from the tower, another Mirror Demon Master suddenly appeared.


    Two Mirror Demon Masters?


    Zhong Shan''s eyebrows shot up. Two? Two became four, and four became eight. In the blink of an eye, 362 Mirror Demon Masters filled the array.


    "This...?" Nangong Sheng was astonished.


    362? Suddenly, all 362 Mirror Demon Masters turned their gaze toward Zhong Shan.


    The collective gaze of the Mirror Demon Masters was indeed terrifying. Nangong Sheng''s eyes tightened in response.


    Nian Youyou, feeling the intensity of their gaze, involuntarily stepped back.


    "Buzz!"


    Zhong Tian also seemed to be affected, as the Spiritual Abode Tower above his head trembled.


    Zhong Tian quickly opened his eyes, a look of shock shing across them. The massive Spiritual Abode Tower was instantly absorbed into his body, and the nine phantom towers around the perimeter vanished.


    "Father!" Zhong Tian greeted respectfully.


    Zhong Shan nodded.


    Suddenly, all 362 Mirror Demon Masters raised their heads, staring at the massive stars above.


    "No way, these three hundred��could they all be real?" Nangong Sheng''s eyes showed a sh of worry.


    "Whoosh!"


    In an instant, all the Mirror Demon Masters on the ground vanished, leaving only one behind, while in the sky, at each of the 361 star positions, a Mirror Demon Master appeared.


    Zhong Shan and Nangong Sheng watched in shock as the Mirror Demon Masters appeared at each star position, preparing to strike.


    The Mirror Demon Master struck down with his bare hands.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Another star exploded. All 361 primary stars burst apart simultaneously, creating powerful spatial distortions that formed a ck hole, causing space around it to crack.


    The array was broken. The explosion of the 361 stars sent countless beams of star light shooting across the Ageless Realm, and the star energy leaked, breaking the array.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a tremendous crash, something shot towards Zhong Shan.


    Everyone looked closely and saw one of the Mirror Demon Masters charging through the shattered array at an insane speed, heading straight for Zhong Shan. He was moving so fast that he was almost upon Zhong Shan in an instant.


    The Mirror Demon Master targeted Zhong Shan, aiming to kill him, having identified him as the leader. He believed that if Zhong Shan fell, the siege of the Ageless Realm would be broken.


    Nangong Sheng was about to intervene.


    Zhong Shan''s pupils constricted, turning green as he activated his Reincarnation Eyes, just about to take action.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    "Crash~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A massive collision sound was followed by the noise of shattering.


    A huge bronze throne suddenly appeared in front of Zhong Shan. The Mirror Demon Master crashed into the throne, shattering his crystalline body into countless fragments that then dissolved into the air.


    The 360 other Mirror Demon Masters who had broken through the array stood by the Wanxiang Mirror Tower, frowning in Zhong Shan''s direction.


    The bronze throne shrank andnded in the hand of a ck-robed figure next to Zhong Shan.


    Wang Kuu! At the critical moment, Wang Kuu had appeared and blocked one of the Mirror Demon Masters.


    The remaining Mirror Demon Masters stared intently at Wang Kuu.


    "The ''Crystal n'' from the Great Thousand World?" Wang Kuu said in his raspy voice.


    In the distance, the 360 Mirror Demon Masters merged back into one.


    "Who are you? I can sense your aura. You are not a skeleton from the Small Thousand World. Is this attack on the Ageless Realm part of a n by some force in the Great Thousand World?" the Mirror Demon Master asked in a deep voice.


    Wang Kuu did not respond.


    "Three hundred and sixty-two ''crystal bodies''? Advancing to ''iron crystal body'' requires only 256 bodies, yet you chose to remain in this world, forsaking advancement?" Wang Kuu rasped.


    "Wang Kuu, how strong are these avatars?" Zhong Shan asked via transmission.


    "Your Majesty, this could be troublesome. The Crystal n is a bizarre race in the Great Thousand World. He has 361 avatars; I destroyed one just now due to his carelessness, but he still has 360 left, plus his main body, making 361 bodies total, each at the Sky Extreme Realm. Over 300 Sky Extreme Realms��it''s best we retreat," Wang Kuu said with a hint of concern.


    "Are all avatars equally powerful?" Zhong Shan continued.


    "Yes, but they can only maintain their form for half an hour each day. However, the Wanxiang Mirror Tower can extend their duration. We can''t destroy the Wanxiang Mirror Tower; in the presence of over 300 Sky Extreme Realm experts, we can''t get close. Your Majesty, we should withdraw," Wang Kuu insisted.


    "Retreat!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Retreat? After wreaking havoc on the Ageless Realm, you think you can just leave?" the Mirror Demon Master sneered.


    With a flick of his finger, the sacred mountain behind him suddenly radiated golden light. Simultaneously, the ten sacred mountains around the perimeter responded, all emitting golden light.


    In an instant, each sacred mountain projected a tangible light screen that connected to form a massive dome, encapsting the area. Within this dome, golden mist spread, obstructing divine senses and limiting visibility to less than a hundred meters.


    Zhong Shan and his group were surrounded. The Mirror Demon Master''s trap was closing in, and the environment grew more hostile with each passing second.

 Chapter 746: Facing the Mirror Demon Master

    <h4>Chapter 746: Facing the Mirror Demon Master</h4>


    "Is this the Great Perfection Array of Buddhism?" Nangong Sheng raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise shing in his eyes. This array was soplex that even Nangong Sheng couldn''t understand it at a nce, at least not in a short period.


    "Buddhism? Hmph!" The Mirror Demon Master sneered.


    "Is it not?"


    "This is the Ten Absolute Formation, the formation that guards the Ageless Realm. If you can break it, I''ll grant each of you an intact corpse," the Mirror Demon Master said arrogantly.


    "Ten Absolute Formation?" Nangong Sheng raised an eyebrow, evidently unfamiliar with it.


    However, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. Ten Absolute Formation? Why did it sound so familiar?


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan recalled some mythological records he had read in his youth on Earth. Ten Absolute Formation? Could it be that Ten Absolute Formation?


    "Nangong Sheng!" Zhong Shan called out solemnly.


    "I''m here!"


    Everyone looked towards Zhong Shan, knowing that he might issue crucial orders. Even the Mirror Demon Master showed a hint of curiosity.


    "I will describe a ''formation'' to you. Use it as a reference and lead everyone out of here!" Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Nangong Sheng responded immediately.


    The Mirror Demon Master raised an eyebrow, watching Zhong Shan. Describe a formation? What could you possibly say? The Ten Absolute Formation is the Ageless Realm''s ultimate guardian array. Did he really think he could break it?


    "I know of a ''Ten Absolute Formation'' that requires ten powerful individuals to set up. Itprises ten sub-formations: Sky Annihtion, Earth Split, Wind Howl, Ice Freeze, Golden Light, Blood Transformation, zing mes, Soul Fall, Red Water, and Red Sand. My memory is vague, but I recall the Golden Light Formation, which resembles this one. The Golden Light Formation absorbs the essence of the sun and moon, conceals the energy of heaven and earth, and contains twenty-one magic mirrors, each suspended atop a high pole. If anyone, mortal or celestial, enters the formation, the golden light from the mirrors will shine upon them, instantly turning them into pus and blood." Zhong Shan recited his memory.


    The Mirror Demon Master''s expression changed, a look of surprise crossing his face. The others also looked at Zhong Shan curiously. How did the emperor know this?


    "Are you a formation master? What I said is just for reference. I cannot confirm its uracy. Now, take everyone and leave quickly. Wait for me outside the Ageless Realm!" Zhong Shan ordered sternly.


    "Zhong Shan, are you staying behind?" Nian Youyou asked, worried.


    "Go, I''ll be fine!" Zhong Shan reassured.


    "Yes!" The others bowed and obeyed. Nian Youyou seemed reluctant but eventually nodded.


    The Mirror Demon Master continued to re at Zhong Shan, ignoring Nangong Sheng and the others as they left, seemingly confident that they couldn''t break the formation.


    In the golden mist, Nangong Sheng and his group quickly disappeared from view.


    "Are you Zhong Shan?" the Mirror Demon Master asked in a deep voice.


    "Do you never concern yourself with the world''s affairs?" Zhong Shan responded coldly.


    "My duty is only to protect the Ageless Realm; everything else is irrelevant to me. Zhong Shan? Ye Qingcheng has mentioned you several times. You indeed have courage!" the Mirror Demon Master said, taking a deep breath.


    "Thank you," Zhong Shan said, unhurried.


    Zhong Shan aimed to buy time for Nian Youyou and the others to escape. The Ten Absolute Formation''s intricacies were unclear, but if it was the same as in his memory, it was terrifying. Once the formation activated, he might be the only survivor. Therefore, he needed them to leave first.


    "How do you know about the Ten Absolute Formation?" the Mirror Demon Master asked, puzzled.


    "So it is the Ten Absolute Formation?" Zhong Shan''s hairs stood on end.


    From the Mirror Demon Master''s words, Zhong Shan discerned the connection between the two Ten Absolute Formations. The Zhu Xian Four Swords alone were not enough to confirm anything, but with this Ten Absolute Formation, what was the true identity of the hidden ancient monster in the Longevity Realm? Zhong Shan''s mind was in turmoil. If these were indeed the powerful figures from Earth''s mythological stories, how should he confront them in the future?


    The Mirror Demon Master squinted at Zhong Shan. "If you didn''t know, how could you describe it so urately?"


    Indeed! Zhong Shan felt even more burdened.


    "Naturally, it was a friend from the Longevity Realm who told me!" Zhong Shan replied with a smile. Despite the heavy weight on his heart, he maintained his calm exterior.


    "Impossible. Besides the master, only the God Crow Daoist knows this formation. He wouldn''t tell you!" the Mirror Demon Master said sternly.


    "If he didn''t tell me, how could I possibly know?" Zhong Shan replied with a faint smile.


    "It must be information from the Great Thousand World. That skeleton just now proves it!" the Mirror Demon Master said coldly.


    "What do you think?" Zhong Shan replied.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A loud explosion suddenly came from the distant south.


    The Mirror Demon Master''s face changed. "How is that possible? They found a weak spot in the formation?" His expression shifted, and he moved to rush towards the sound.


    "Whoosh!" Zhong Shan suddenly appeared in front of him.


    "Seeking death!" The Mirror Demon Master halted and struck at Zhong Shan with his palm.


    Just as he was about to strike, he felt an overwhelming pressure bearing down on him, targeting his very soul. This immense pressure came from Zhong Shan''s eyes, a pair of green pupils.


    Reincarnation Eyes, activate!


    Instinctively, the Mirror Demon Master retreated, his face filled with lingering fear!


    Staring at Zhong Shan, the Mirror Demon Master hesitated. He couldn''t gauge Zhong Shan''s depths and didn''t know how to proceed. Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s presence exerted tremendous pressure on him.


    "Buzz!"


    Near the Wanxiang Mirror Tower, another figure shot out, another Mirror Demon Master racing towards the direction where Nangong Sheng was breaking the formation. But as he moved less than a mile, he abruptly stopped.


    The second Mirror Demon Master looked forward in shock. Another Zhong Shan stood before him.


    Another Zhong Shan? A clone?


    The Mirror Demon Master encountered something bizarre for the first time. Clones were his prerogative. Could someone else in the Small Thousand World have this ability?


    But no matter how many clones you have, can they outnumber my ''Crystal n''?


    Near the Wanxiang Mirror Tower, a white light shed again, and ten more figures shot out towards Nangong Sheng''s direction.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The ten figures abruptly retreated in terror.


    Because before them, ten more Zhong Shans appeared.


    Moreover, these ten Zhong Shans moved as fast as the Mirror Demon Masters. How was this possible? Who was he?


    "Who are you?" one of the Mirror Demon Masters asked in terror.


    "I am just myself," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Clones? Let''s see how many clones you have!" The Mirror Demon Master, in a state of panic, became frantic.


    From the Wanxiang Mirror Tower, more and more Mirror Demon Masters emerged rapidly, soon numbering over three hundred. As all 361 Mirror Demon Masters appeared, the Mirror Demon Master''s expression went beyond shock, shifting to sheer terror, as if he had realized something incredibly frightening.


    As the Mirror Demon Master''s clones increased, Zhong Shan also rapidly created more of himself.


    One to one, there was not a single discrepancy, not a single missing clone.


    "Who are you really?" the Mirror Demon Master cried out in shock.


    "What do you think?" Zhong Shan replied.


    "The Crystal n? Are you also from the Crystal n? Have youe to capture me?" The Mirror Demon Master became extremely fearful.


    Zhong Shan''s mind raced, and from the Mirror Demon Master''s words, he quickly deduced something.


    "You traitor of the Crystal n, we''ve been searching for you for so long and finally found you here!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    "I am not a traitor! I am not a traitor!" The Mirror Demon Master became infinitely terrified.


    All 361 bodies of the Mirror Demon Master quickly scattered in different directions.


    All 361 Zhong Shans followed closely, each one shouting, "You are a traitor!"


    The more Zhong Shan pursued, the more terrified the Mirror Demon Master became.


    If it came to a real fight, Zhong Shan might not yet be a match for the Mirror Demon Master, but he had identified the Mirror Demon Master''s weakness: his fragile psyche. Zhong Shan aimed to exploit this with verbal attacks, not to defeat the Mirror Demon Master directly, but to buy time. He just needed to dy long enough for Nangong Sheng and the others to escape the array.


    During this time, the Mirror Demon Master was too frightened to manipte the array, giving Zhong Shan the time he needed. As long as he could hold on and ensure that those he cared about could leave the formation, he couldter devise a strategy against the Mirror Demon Master.


    "I am not a traitor!"


    "You are a traitor!"


    Each Zhong Shan kept chasing, not allowing the Mirror Demon Master a moment to think or calm down.


    Zhong Shan had found the Mirror Demon Master''s Achilles'' heel, simr to how Kui''er was his own weakness. There was something that made the Mirror Demon Master infinitely fearful.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A super loud noise echoed from the distance, shaking the entire space.


    This loud noise caused the Mirror Demon Master''s terrified mind to suddenly focus. He looked at Zhong Shan with a mix of realization and anger.


    "You are not from the Crystal n?" The Mirror Demon Master finally emerged from his fear.


    However, Zhong Shan didn''t mind anymore. He knew that Nangong Sheng had already led the others out.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A loud noise came from in front of the Wanxiang Mirror Tower, where another Zhong Shan struck the tower with his palm. However, the tower remained unscathed.


    The Mirror Demon Master''s eyes tightened as he swiftly moved towards the Wanxiang Mirror Tower.


    Zhong Shan immediately blocked his path.


    "Seeking death!" one of the Mirror Demon Master clones shouted in rage, ignoring Zhong Shan''s Reincarnation Eyes this time and striking out with his palm.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan did not activate his Reincarnation Eyes. Instead, he rapidly retreated, quickly evading the attack. Just as he cleared the way, another Zhong Shan appeared to take his ce.


    Zhong Shan avoided using the Reincarnation Eyes because he couldn''t sustain it.


    With 361 Mirror Demon Masters, the shadow clones couldn''t open 361 Reincarnation Tunnels��it would consume too much energy. Opening even half would exhaust Zhong Shan to death. Trying to open onerge tunnel was also futile, as it would only destroy one Mirror Demon Master while the others could easily escape with their terrifying speed.


    For now, the Reincarnation Eyes could only be used for intimidation, not directbat.


    Hundreds of Zhong Shans were now blocking 361 Mirror Demon Masters. The Mirror Demon Masters were bing increasingly frustrated as they struggled to maneuver.


    Near the Wanxiang Mirror Tower, one Zhong Shan coldly observed it. The tower had to be destroyed; every moment''s dy benefited the Mirror Demon Master. Zhong Shan had noticed earlier that when he struck the tower, it wasn''t the tower''s durability but some strange force within that reflected his attack back.


    "A precious treasure? Let''s see how you reflect the power of the Reincarnation Tunnel!" Zhong Shan''s eyes grew cold.


    A small Reincarnation Tunnel suddenly appeared below the Wanxiang Mirror Tower.


    The powerful suction drew the tower in without resistance. The blue light around the tower vanished as it was sucked into the Reincarnation Tunnel.

 Chapter 747: The Ageless Realm, Removed

    <h4>Chapter 747: The Ageless Realm, Removed</h4>


    The Wanxiang Mirror Tower swallowed by the Reincarnation Tunnel?


    All 361 Mirror Demon Masters froze, feeling the disappearance of the tower. They all turned towards that direction��gone. The enormous Wanxiang Mirror Tower, the indestructible Wanxiang Mirror Tower, was gone?


    The Mirror Demon Masters were filled with disbelief.


    Of course, Zhong Shan also felt a twinge of regret. He could sense the preciousness of the Wanxiang Mirror Tower. Such a treasure, if devoured by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, would have been invaluable. But to deal with the Mirror Demon Master, it had to be sacrificed to the Reincarnation Tunnel.


    The power of reincarnation is the power of the heavenly way. No matter how sturdy the Wanxiang Mirror Tower was, it would inevitably shatter.


    "Bastard!"


    A multitude of Mirror Demon Masters charged at the standing Zhong Shan.


    "Boom!"


    With terrifying speed, they struck that Zhong Shan with overwhelming force. Hundreds of Mirror Demon Masters attacked simultaneously, pulverizing that Zhong Shan into dust.


    That was merely one of Zhong Shan''s shadow clones.


    Seeing Zhong Shan disintegrate without turning into crystal fragments, all the Mirror Demon Masters'' pupils contracted.


    "I know, I know!" the Mirror Demon Master suddenly said with a sh of malice in his eyes.


    "Know what?"


    "Your technique mimics my Crystal n''s divine power. You are mimicking our divine power! Hmph, mimicry? Indeed, there was a saint in the Great Thousand World who created such a technique. However, no matter how much it is improved, your clones will neverst more than half an hour, never achieving the effect of our Crystal n!" the Mirror Demon Master said coldly.


    "Is that so?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Half an hour? The shadow clones of the Myriad Shadows Heavenly Scripturest far longer than half an hour!


    "I won''t let you die easily!" one of the Mirror Demon Masters said sinisterly.


    The Mirror Demon Masters charged at the group of Zhong Shans.


    Fortunately, Zhong Shan''s speed was sufficient to dodge swiftly. What started as Zhong Shan pursuing and intercepting the Mirror Demon Masters quickly turned into the Mirror Demon Masters chasing Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan consistently maintained one shadow clone per Mirror Demon Master.


    In this rapid chase, Zhong Shan avoided directbat, knowing that aside from his speed advantage, each shadow clone couldn''t match a Mirror Demon Master. Zhong Shan aimed to stall, waiting out the half-hour. When that time psed, it would spell the end for the Mirror Demon Masters.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    From time to time, a shadow clone would be shattered by the Mirror Demon Masters.


    The Mirror Demon Masters searched everywhere for Zhong Shan''s true body, but Zhong Shan''s true body was well-hidden. Among the hundreds of Zhong Shans, none were the original.


    Even battle requires strategy.


    After a stick of incense burned, the Mirror Demon Master began to frown.


    As time passed, the Mirror Demon Masters grew increasingly uneasy. How could this be? So many Zhong Shans? And their clones hadn''t dissipated yet?


    Seeing that half an hour was almost up, the 361 Mirror Demon Masters suddenly stopped, feeling a surge of dread.


    Something''s wrong. This isn''t right!


    Their half-hour started from the moment the Wanxiang Mirror Tower vanished. But Zhong Shan? He wasn''t timing himself alongside them. His timing began when the Wanxiang Mirror Tower was still present. In other words, Zhong Shan''s clones had already surpassed half an hour.


    Was I wrong?


    A chill rose from the depths of the Mirror Demon Master''s heart as he imagined facing several hundred Sky Extreme Realm experts alone the moment his clones disappeared. Realizing the dire situation, he looked at the nearby Zhong Shans. From their eyes, he saw mockery.


    "Damn!" The Mirror Demon Master knew things were going south quickly.


    The Mirror Demon Master''s clones turned and dashed in all directions, but with their speed matching Zhong Shan''s, each Zhong Shan followed closely.


    "Boom! ..."


    A series of explosive sounds echoed as the Mirror Demon Master''s clones vanished into smoke, leaving only one��the true Mirror Demon Master��fleeing into the distance.


    Gradually, six Zhong Shans surrounded the Mirror Demon Master in the center.


    "Who are you?" the Mirror Demon Master gulped nervously.


    Everything today had defied the Mirror Demon Master''s understanding, too bizarre, too eerie. All his methods seemed countered by this strange opponent.


    The six Zhong Shans positioned themselves to the Mirror Demon Master''s east, south, west, north, above, and below.


    "Reincarnation Tunnel, open!" all six Zhong Shans shouted simultaneously.


    "Nooooooooooooooooooo!"


    At the entrance of the Ageless Realm, a group of strong individuals waited patiently.


    "Nangong, how is it?" Zhong Tian asked anxiously.


    Everyone looked at Nangong Sheng, who performed a few hand seals, sending them high into the sky.


    "I left an array within the Ten Absolute Formation to monitor the internal energy," Nangong Sheng exined, looking up.


    High in the sky, an array seemed connected to the distant sacred mountain.


    "How is it?" Nian Youyou asked worriedly.


    Nangong Sheng''s face lit up with joy. "Only His Majesty''s energy remains. The Mirror Demon Master''s energy haspletely dissipated. The Mirror Demon Master is dead!"


    After Nangong Sheng''s words, the group cheered with excitement.


    "Let''s go see Father!" Zhong Tian said enthusiastically.


    "Yes, let''s go!" Hao Meili''s mood was equally uplifted.


    Under the sea of merit within the Ageless Realm, Zhong Shan sat cross-legged, seemingly recovering from his earlier exertions.


    When the group arrived, Zhong Shan slowly opened his eyes.


    "Long live the Emperor!" the officials of the Great Yu Dynasty bowed deeply.


    Zhong Shan looked around and frowned slightly. "Where is Nian Youyou?"


    Amidst the group, Nian Youyou was absent.


    "She left," Zhong Tian replied.


    "Left?" Zhong Shan''s frown deepened.


    "Upon hearing that Father had defeated the Mirror Demon Master, she left, asking me to ry a message to you," Zhong Tian said with a furrowed brow.


    "Oh?"


    "She said she feels unworthy of Father''s love and doesn''t deserve it. After saying this, she turned into a pile of golden sand and flew out of the Ageless Realm, scattering in all directions. We don''t know where she went," Zhong Tian exined.


    "She left? Sigh!" Zhong Shan sighed softly.


    Zhong Shan understood that Nian Youyou was still unable to move past the hurdle of their past. Since she couldn''t, she wouldn''t be able to stay. This exined her strange behavior when he gave her the Merit Rose earlier.


    With a gentle sigh, Zhong Shan decided not to pursue her. Such matters could only be resolved by Nian Youyou herself. Even if he found her now, it wouldn''t change anything.


    Furthermore, Zhong Shan knew in his heart that his feelings for Nian Youyou weren''t as deep as those for his other empresses. His rtionship with Nian Youyou was primarily influenced by the memories of "Xu Xian" and "Bai Suzhen" from his past life, a rtionship that was not entirely real but deeply ingrained in his memory, making itplicated. Everything would depend on fate!


    "Your Majesty, in the Ageless Realm, all Sky Extreme Realm experts have been exterminated, and most of the Empire Extreme Realm experts have also been eliminated. A few managed to escape in the chaos, but Xianxian is leading a group of Empire Extreme Realm experts to intercept them. No one should escape," Mud Buddha reported.


    "Very well! From today onwards, the Ageless Realm is erased from the underworld!" Zhong Shan dered as he stood up.


    "Congrattions, Your Majesty!" everyone eximed.


    "Your Majesty, should we seize the Ageless Realm?" Nangong Sheng asked.


    Zhong Shan looked around the internal world. In the past, when the three great heavenly dynasties besieged the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, the Pure Land waspletely destroyed, and Gu Shentong eventually collected the Pure Land''s essence, the "Post-Earth."


    "How was this Ageless Realm created?" Zhong Shan asked Nangong Sheng.


    Nangong Sheng frowned and shook his head. "I''m not sure. This kind of small world is very peculiar!"


    "Your Majesty, I know a bit about it," Wang Kuu suddenly said.


    "Oh?" Everyone turned to Wang Kuu.


    "I once heard that such small worlds are formed by merging ''Qi Fortune'' into certain treasures," Wang Kuu exined.


    "What? Qi Fortune?" Zhong Shan''s eyelids twitched.


    "Yes, the treasures are not fixed. I read about this in an ancient record. To form such a small world, at least one yuan of Qi Fortune is required, which must then be merged with a treasure to form the world. The material of the treasure determines the world''s prosperity, and the amount of Qi Fortune determines the world''s size. At least one yuan of Qi Fortune is necessary. Beyond that, I know nothing more," Wang Kuu said, shaking his head.


    Zhong Shan pondered this for a while.


    "Zhong Tian, collect all the merit from the Ageless Realm!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!"


    "I expended some energy dealing with the Mirror Demon Master. Wang Kuu, Nangong Sheng, Mud Buddha, you three are responsible for extracting the Ageless Realm," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" the three responded promptly.


    After Zhong Tian had extracted all the merit, everyone exited the Ageless Realm.


    Standing atop a mountain peak, they looked towards the Ageless Realm.


    As the three experts began extracting the Ageless Realm, the surrounding heaven and earth trembled.


    The mountain peak Zhong Shan stood on shook continuously, as if it might copse at any moment.


    Hao Meili, annoyed, shouted, "Stop shaking! No more shaking!"


    With her shout, the surrounding tremors abruptly ceased.


    Zhong Shan, Mr. Corpse, Zhong Tian, and others looked at Hao Meili in astonishment. Was she really that powerful?


    Hao Meili felt quite pleased with herself.


    Having destroyed the Ageless Realm and personally killed the Curse Demon Master, Hao Meili was in high spirits.


    Not long after, the three experts emerged from the Ageless Realm, and the vast entrance to the Ageless Realm suddenly transformed into a golden ball of light.


    Zhong Shan reached out and grabbed it. It was light, almost weightless.


    Qi Fortune? Was this Qi Fortune? Zhong Shan felt a slight thrill. When Tian Shenzi forcibly absorbed Qi Fortune into his body, Zhong Shan had been curious about what Qi Fortune was. Was this ball in his hand Qi Fortune?


    However, unfortunately, this wasn''t the Qi Fortune of Great Yu, but a form of unimed Qi Fortune.


    He would study itter.


    "Return to court!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" everyone responded.


    At the ck Sea.


    The second match of the gamble, Di Xuanhe vs. de Maniac! Di Xuanhe''s remarkable talent shone through as he memorized all of de Maniac''s techniques after just one round. He began a new cycle of countering de Maniac with his own techniques.


    On the shore, Tian Xiaozi finally recalled a name.


    "Yangjian, Di Xuanhe?" Tian Xiaozi''s pupils contracted.


    On the ck Sea''s surface, Ye Qingcheng also suddenly realized who the white-robed man was��Di Xuanhe?

 Chapter 748: Di Xuanhe鈥檚 Weapon, the Severing World Golden Wheel

    <h4>Chapter 748: Di Xuanhe''s Weapon, the Severing World Golden Wheel</h4>


    The name Di Xuanhe carried immense weight.


    Anyone who had studied Zhong Shan''s background would immediately recognize the white-robed man as Di Xuanhe. At the very least, Ye Qingcheng and Tian Xiaozi had figured it out. This man was undoubtedly Di Xuanhe. Only a genius like Di Xuanhe could disy such formidable strength.


    Other Sky Extreme Realm experts present also recognized Di Xuanhe, and their pupils contracted in fear.


    What kind of fierce person was Di Xuanhe?


    Even with the newly acquired Sky Extreme Realm cultivation, he had once forced the Supreme of the Yang Realm''s Dragon n into ascension. Such a terrifying figure, could he possibly be inferior to de Maniac or Hong Jian?


    Some even spected that Di Xuanhe''s power rivaled Ye Qingcheng''s!


    The Sky Extreme Realm experts seemed to realize something and signaled their disciples to retreat quickly.


    Upon recognizing Di Xuanhe, Ye Qingcheng immediately focused on Zhong Shan in the distance.


    Something felt off. The previous uneasy feeling surged back into his heart.


    Di Xuanhe, who the God Crow Daoist repeatedly emphasized as a fierce and formidable opponent, was said to be on par with him in strength. If so, then the ck Sea gamble was a foregone conclusion. Di Xuanhe would soon resolve the two Dao Lords on Ye Qingcheng''s side. But what was he doing? Using their own techniques against them?


    No, he was stalling for time. But why?


    Ye Qingcheng couldn''tprehend it and looked towards Zhong Shan with a serious expression, a trace of anxiety shing in his eyes.


    Across the ck Sea, Zhong Shan sat on his dragon chair, leaning on the armrest, with a faint smile at the corner of his mouth.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s smile made Ye Qingcheng even more uneasy. What was happening?


    Tian Xiaozi, on the shore, also sensed something was amiss.


    Something was wrong. Just as he was scheming against them, it seemed Zhong Shan was also scheming. Otherwise, given Di Xuanhe''s personality, he wouldn''t be dragging this out.


    Di Xuanhe wasn''t a soft touch; he was guiding de Maniac?


    No, something was definitely wrong. Tian Xiaozi also had a bad feeling, as if his scheme was being countered by another.


    Many spectators were immersed in the battle, captivated by the brilliance of the white-robed man, unaware of the underlying plot. Those who recognized Di Xuanhe, particrly the Sky Extreme Realm experts, grew increasingly restless, sensing a deep and dangerous conspiracy.


    Ye Qingcheng couldn''t pinpoint the source of his unease, growing more agitated by the moment.


    Suddenly, he nced towards the floating ind where the Immortal Monument and the Ancestral Divine Beast were ced.


    His pupils contracted. Where was the Ancestral Divine Beast?


    It was gone!


    In a sh, Ye Qingcheng sped towards the floating ind. Zhong Shan, who had been watching him, quickly followed.


    "Ye Qingcheng, what are you doing? Are you trying to renege after losing?" Zhong Shan shouted.


    In an instant, they both reached the vicinity of the floating ind, confronting each other.


    "Where is your Ancestral Divine Beast? Without it, do you still intend to gamble? Are you trying to make a wager without any stake?" Ye Qingcheng''s voice was cold, masking his growing anxiety.


    All eyes turned towards them, and a sense of unease spread among the onlookers.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    In the distance, Di Xuanhe struck with his de, killing de Maniac with his own technique.


    The audience''s attention quickly returned to the duel. The scene had changed too fast, too bizarrely. They hadn''t even had time to fullyprehend what had just happened.


    One moment, de Maniac and Di Xuanhe were locked in a fierce battle; the next, de Maniac was dead, in by Di Xuanhe''s de.


    "What do you have to say now?" Zhong Shan reached out to grab the Immortal Monument.


    Suddenly, Ye Qingcheng drew the ughter Immortal Sword, pointing it at Zhong Shan.


    "What do you think you''re doing?" Zhong Shan red angrily.


    In the distance, Tian Xiaozi flew over slowly, and Di Xuanhe quickly approached.


    In an instant, they arrived close by.


    At that moment, Ye Qingcheng''s ughter Immortal Sword was pointed at Zhong Shan, but his expression was extremely nk, as if he was deeply pondering something.


    "Impossible, impossible. Zhong Shan, is it you?" Ye Qingcheng''s eyes suddenly turned red as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    The countless spectators were slightly stunned. What was Ye Qingcheng doing? Was he refusing to admit defeat and trying to reim the Immortal Monument? At this moment, people stopped wondering where the Ancestral Divine Beast had gone and started thinking about Ye Qingcheng''s behavior, deeming it disgraceful.


    Even Tian Xiaozi was filled with confusion, the previous sense of foreboding growing stronger as he also looked at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly and said, "From today onwards, the Ageless Realm is erased from the underworld!"


    Although Zhong Shan''s voice wasn''t loud, it spread far and wide.


    Hearing this, almost all the spectators felt a mix of emotions. What was Zhong Shan talking about? Was he mad? Erasing the Ageless Realm?


    Tian Xiaozi understood immediately, his pupils contracting in shock. No way, was the ck Sea gamble merely a distraction? Had Zhong Shan actually destroyed the Ageless Realm?


    How could this be? How could an empire possibly destroy the Ageless Realm?


    However, if this weren''t the case, why was Ye Qingcheng reacting so dramatically? As the realm''s lord, Ye Qingcheng must have sensed that the Ageless Realm''s immeasurable merit was in jeopardy, exining his drastic reaction.


    Could it be true? Tian Xiaozi was instantly filled with terror as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    "It really is you? I''ll kill you!" Ye Qingcheng roared in madness.


    The Ageless Realm was destroyed! Ye Qingcheng had never considered such a possibility because it seemed impossible. Zhong Shan had deliberately lured him here to destroy the Ageless Realm?


    Nangong Sheng and Hao Meili hadn''te because they had gone to the Ageless Realm. But how could that be? With two Great Demonic Masters guarding it, how could it be possible? Yet, the loss of merit was real and undeniable.


    The Ageless Realm was lost under his watch?


    Ye Qingcheng instantly became incredibly furious.


    With a furious roar, Ye Qingcheng swung the ughter Immortal Sword at Zhong Shan. The speed of the strike was terrifying.


    However, Di Xuanhe was right there.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A loud explosion echoed through the air. A dazzling golden light radiated from Di Xuanhe, blinding the surrounding strong cultivators. Di Xuanhe blocked the ughter Immortal Sword''s strike, the powerful collision shattering the surrounding space.


    Tian Xiaozi retreated rapidly, while Zhong Shan seized the opportunity to collect the eleven Immortal Monuments.


    The space around them fractured, and a powerful spatial ck hole engulfed Zhong Shan, Ye Qingcheng, and Di Xuanhe.


    The surrounding space trembled violently.


    When the ck hole dissipated, the three reappeared.


    Zhong Shan stood in the back, with Di Xuanhe and Ye Qingcheng facing off.


    Ye Qingcheng wielded the ughter Immortal Sword, its murderous aura soaring to the sky. With the sword''s release, the area around Ye Qingcheng turned blood-red, the intense killing intent pressing down on Di Xuanhe.


    Di Xuanhe finally revealed his weapon for the first time. The massive saber he previously wielded had disappeared. In front of Di Xuanhe now was a gigantic golden crescent-shaped wheel. The colossal golden wheel radiated beams of golden light, surrounded by mist. The wheel''s surface was covered with strange symbols, the outer arc adorned with razor-sharp des, and the inner arc equipped with nine gleaming spikes.


    The golden wheel, standing as tall as two men, had Di Xuanhe positioned within its inner arc. As the wheel rotated, its outer arc shed with the ughter Immortal Sword, creating not sparks but small ck holes.


    "Crack, crack, crack, crack!"


    The weapons collided with immense force. Normally, a ninth-grade magic treasure wouldn''t withstand the ughter Immortal Sword, but this golden wheel held firm. Its golden light shed fiercely, intimidating anyone who looked at it.


    "What is this?" Ye Qingcheng asked, horrified.


    "The Severing World Golden Wheel!" Di Xuanhe replied solemnly.


    "Severing World Golden Wheel? I''ve never heard of it!" Ye Qingcheng''s forehead dripped with sweat.


    "This is its first appearance!" Di Xuanhe said.


    "Boom!"


    The two separated briefly.


    The Severing World Golden Wheel, with Di Xuanhe at its center, spun rapidly. Sometimes it circled around him, sometimes it encircled himpletely, making him appear invulnerable. Wherever the outer arc passed, it left behind spatial fissures.


    Ye Qingcheng looked at Di Xuanhe in shock. How could there be a treasure that could rival the ughter Immortal Sword?


    At that moment, Di Xuanhe pointed, and the enormous Severing World Golden Wheel, spinning with terrifying speed, shot towards Ye Qingcheng. Wherever it passed, it left a curtain of ckness in its wake.


    The countless spectators were stunned. The battle between Di Xuanhe and Ye Qingcheng was a world-shaking duel, one that truly made their blood boil.


    On a distant peak, Tian Xiaozi watched the twobatants with a mix of awe and confusion. Beside him, another man appeared.


    "Patriarch, when should we act?"


    "Wait a little longer. They will start killing each other without our intervention. ording to the original n, we were supposed to help Zhong Shan eliminate Ye Qingcheng, delivering a severe blow to the Ageless Realm. But now that Zhong Shan has already destroyed the Ageless Realm, he''s be even more formidable. We need to adjust the n slightly. Wait for mymand," Tian Xiaozi ordered.


    "Yes!" The man nodded, then swiftly left the peak.


    At that moment, a battered figure hurried towards Tian Xiaozi.


    "Patriarch!" rasped a hoarse female voice.


    "Tian Lao? What happened to you?" Tian Xiaozi asked in shock, looking at Tian Lao.


    Tian Lao''s hair was white, and she looked utterly exhausted.


    "I was ambushed by the geomancer of the Great Yu Dynasty. He broke my Eight Silk Heaven Net Formation, and Xiao Wang betrayed us!" Tian Lao said, her voice filled with bitterness.


    "What?"


    "Impossible, Xiao Wang would never betray us!" Tian Xiaozi eximed.


    "Patriarch, it''s true. Otherwise, the geomancer of the Great Yu Dynasty wouldn''t have found my location!" Tian Lao said, her face filled with hatred.


    "No, I refuse to believe it. Xiao Wang has been loyal to me. He wouldn''t betray us. It''s impossible!" Tian Xiaozi shouted.


    In the distance, the battle between Ye Qingcheng and Di Xuanhe intensified. The Severing World Golden Wheel was incredibly fierce, matching the legendary ughter Immortal Sword in power. The battle raged on without either weapon giving way.


    "We''ll see how long your wretched wheel can hold out!" Ye Qingcheng shouted, his voice tinged with madness.


    He thrust the ughter Immortal Sword at Di Xuanhe once more. Di Xuanhe''s lips curved into a slight smile, as if he had been waiting for this moment.

 Chapter 749: Forcibly Swallowing the Slaughter Immortal Sword

    <h4>Chapter 749: Forcibly Swallowing the ughter Immortal Sword</h4>


    Enraged, Ye Qingcheng thrust his sword with immense fury, directing his attack straight at Di Xuanhe.


    This time, the attack carried an overwhelming aura of ughter. Even the onlookers with weaker cultivation were overwhelmed, their hearts momentarily stopping from the sheer oppressive force.


    Ye Qingcheng''s strike was all-out, unstoppable, with a mighty momentum. The space around them shattered under the pressure. Ye Qingcheng was determined to break the Severing World Golden Wheel with this strike. No matter how strong it was, it couldn''tpare to the ancient top-tier treasures. Ye Qingcheng was confident that the ughter Immortal Sword would sever the golden wheel.


    Making its debut? Let it also be itsst appearance!


    The ughter Immortal Sword surged forward with unmatched power, its aura unstoppable.


    Di Xuanhe observed the attack without much fear. The massive Severing World Golden Wheel spun, moving towards Ye Qingcheng, seemingly ready for mutual destruction.


    Ye Qingcheng looked at Di Xuanhe with a hint of doubt. Mutual destruction? Can you even make it in time? The Severing World Golden Wheel was only just now moving, far slower than the ughter Immortal Sword.


    Ye Qingcheng''s determination strengthened. The destructive power of his strike was immense, shattering the surrounding space, obscuring the internal scene from the outside world.


    "ng~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    "Crack, crack, crack, crack...!"


    A loud collision sound echoed, followed by the continuous shing of weapons. Although the outside world couldn''t hear, within the ck hole, Ye Qingcheng''s eyes widened in shock.


    The Severing World Golden Wheel blocked the ughter Immortal Sword, but it wasn''t the original golden wheel.


    Another Severing World Golden Wheel had appeared before Di Xuanhe, with its inner arc facing the ughter Immortal Sword. Simultaneously, the previous golden wheel, which had rushed towards Ye Qingcheng, also had its inner arc closely pressing against the ughter Immortal Sword.


    The two Severing World Golden Wheels sped together, trapping the ughter Immortal Sword, preventing it from advancing further!


    The Severing World Golden Wheel wasn''t aimed at Ye Qingcheng?


    Seeing the sudden appearance of another Severing World Golden Wheel, Ye Qingcheng''s face showed a mix of horror and disbelief.


    The Severing World Golden Wheel wasn''t one of the ancient top-tier treasures, yet it could withstand a sh with the ughter Immortal Sword without breaking. Di Xuanhe''s ability to craft such a treasure was terrifying. But this? Why were there two?


    "Why are there two?" Ye Qingcheng asked in shock.


    "Did I ever say there was only one?" Di Xuanhe coldly replied.


    "Grrr!"


    A sudden sound broke the stalemate. Ye Qingcheng felt something wrapping around him.


    "What is this?" Ye Qingcheng''s heart tightened.


    Two tails, enormous and powerful, coiled around Ye Qingcheng. Startled, he tried to unleash his aura to break free, but the tails'' grip was too strong, with a disorienting effect on his mind.


    Ye Qingcheng gritted his teeth, fighting off the sudden panic, and tried to yank his sword free.


    Unfortunately, under Di Xuanhe''s powerful spell, the two Severing World Golden Wheels mped tightly onto the ughter Immortal Sword.


    "Crack, crack, crack...!"


    The ughter Immortal Sword''s withdrawal was extremely slow. Too slow. Was this Di Xuanhe''s scheme?


    The ughter Immortal Sword couldn''t be pulled out in time?


    Just then, Ye Qingcheng noticed something terrifying��a giant mouth approaching from behind.


    No matter how much aura he released, it wouldn''t budge. The ughter Immortal Sword''s intense sword energy couldn''t repel the mouth that was about to swallow him whole.


    The sight was terrifying��such a massive mouth! What on earth was that thing? Ye Qingcheng''s inner being was flooded with a bone-chilling fear.


    Death��the feeling of death! This instinct, it was never wrong. If he didn''t act now, he would surely die.


    In a frenzy, Ye Qingcheng struggled desperately, trying to pull the ughter Immortal Sword free. But it was stuck in the grip of the Severing World Golden Wheels, and pulling it out was excruciatingly slow.


    There wasn''t enough time.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a thunderous roar, Ye Qingcheng broke free from the two massive tails and darted out of the path of the Baji Tianwei''s gigantic mouth.


    "Chomp!"


    The Baji Tianwei missed its target, but in his escape, Ye Qingcheng let go of the ughter Immortal Sword. Zhong Shan and Di Xuanhe had achieved their goal.


    The Severing World Golden Wheels released their grip, and the Baji Tianwei wrapped its tail around the ughter Immortal Sword.


    "Damn it!"


    Ye Qingcheng rushed towards the Baji Tianwei.


    But Di Xuanhe wasn''t just standing idly by. With a swift movement, he blocked Ye Qingcheng''s path.


    At this moment, the surrounding ck hole space began to gradually restore itself.


    When the spectators could once again see the scene above, they were all filled with astonishment.


    Ye Qingcheng had lost the ughter Immortal Sword? Di Xuanhe''s Severing World Golden Wheels came in pairs? What was that beast in front of Zhong Shan? The bizarre changes stirred immense curiosity among the onlookers.


    By now, Tian Xiaozi had already flown over.


    "Zhong Shan, the ughter Immortal Sword belongs to Ye Qingcheng of the Ageless Realm. You two and a beast ganging up on Ye Qingcheng, isn''t that unfair? In front of the whole world, are you looking to make enemies with everyone? Return the ughter Immortal Sword to Ye Qingcheng!" Tian Xiaozi demanded.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan responded with a disdainful cold smile.


    There was no way the Baji Tianwei would loosen its grip now. Having missed an opportunity to devour the Fallen Immortal Sword in the Yang Realm, it wasn''t about to make the same mistake twice.


    Without hesitation, the Baji Tianwei eagerly swallowed the ughter Immortal Sword.


    Eat, eat, eat��the Baji Tianwei was ecstatic beyond words at the sight of the ughter Immortal Sword.


    "You!" Tian Xiaozi''s eyes red with anger.


    Ye Qingcheng, however, smirked coldly. Eat? Who could possibly devour the material of the ughter Immortal Sword?


    "ughter Immortal, return~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Ye Qingcheng chanted a spell to forcibly summon the ughter Immortal Sword back, just like the ancient monster of the Yang Realm could summon the Immortal Execution Sword from afar.


    "Wuwuwu!" The Baji Tianwei''s body trembled uncontrobly. It was clear that something shaped like a sword was violently shaking inside its mouth, but the Baji Tianwei held on tightly.


    How could it let go of such a delectable treat now that it had it in its mouth?


    Ye Qingcheng didn''t believe that the creature could devour the ughter Immortal Sword because he didn''t understand the Baji Tianwei.


    "Di Xuanhe, Ye Qingcheng must not be allowed to live. The Ageless Realm is already destroyed, and he must not remain in this world!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "I understand!" Di Xuanhe nodded.


    Beside Di Xuanhe, the two gigantic Severing World Golden Wheels began to spin rapidly.


    Tian Xiaozi watched the unfolding scene and with a wave of his hand, eight Sky Extreme Realm experts from the Tian family flew up, surrounding Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, you''ve gone too far!" Tian Xiaozi coldly dered.


    Zhong Shan nced around at the eight experts closing in, recognizing them from the Silent Wave Pool.


    "Do you really intend to oppose me?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s not that I want to oppose you; it''s your actions��" Tian Xiaozi began to exin.


    But Zhong Shan wouldn''t listen. With a swift movement, he summoned hisrge de, Nightmare Reborn.


    Heavenly Demon Tempering Body Art, Sixth Level!


    Heavenly Rules! Thousand Waves!


    Without hesitation, Zhong Shan struck. A powerful sh shattered the surrounding space.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Tian Xiaozi hastily raised a crystal shield to block the formidable strike. The impact shattered the shield, and Tian Xiaozi was sent crashing down by the overwhelming force.


    "Patriarch~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The flying experts cried out in panic.


    "Crash~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Tian Xiaozi was mmed into the ck Sea by the force of the strike.


    At that moment, the ughter Immortal Sword stopped vibrating in the Baji Tianwei''s mouth.


    "Di Xuanhe, kill him!" Zhong Shanmanded loudly.


    Suddenly, the Baji Tianwei expanded to a massive size, a hundred feet long. Zhong Shan quickly sat cross-legged on the creature''s head, appearing as if he were meditating.


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes, seemingly in deep cultivation, while the Baji Tianwei''s eight colossal tails whipped about, shattering the surrounding space with each movement.


    From the ck Sea, Tian Xiaozi emerged, blood dripping from his mouth.


    The numerous onlookers were stunned by the unexpected turn of events.


    Was Zhong Shan really that powerful? Could an emperor of an imperial dynasty shatter space like that?


    And what was that monstrous creature doing? Was Zhong Shan actually meditating at a time like this?


    The sight of the eight massive tails left everyone shaken. What kind of monster was this?


    "Help Ye Qingcheng, stop Di Xuanhe!" Tian Xiaozi shouted as he emerged from the sea.


    "Yes!" The Tian family experts responded immediately.


    Below, many other experts frowned deeply, unsure of what to do in the rapidly changing situation. Should they help Zhong Shan? Was that right? Oppose Zhong Shan? Was that right?


    In the distance, the eight Tian family experts and Hong Jian Daojun rushed towards Di Xuanhe, assisting Ye Qingcheng in battling him.


    Di Xuanhe faced ten opponents! A fierce sh ensued.


    The heads of various factions deliberated on their next moves, while some rogue cultivators watched with excitement, their blood boiling.


    Ten Sky Extreme Realm experts against one?


    That man was called Di Xuanhe? One versus ten? A formidable and fierce individual!


    Meanwhile, Tian Xiaozi and the female elder, Tian Lao, watched Zhong Shan closely.


    Tian Xiaozi was deeply unsettled. Zhong Shan''s earlier strike was etched in his memory. The shield that had been shattered wasn''t just a ninth-grade treasure but an immortal artifact, albeit the weakest kind. Still, it was an immortal artifact, and Zhong Shan had shattered it with one strike?


    Determined, Tian Xiaozi red at Zhong Shan atop the Baji Tianwei. He formed a hand seal and directed it towards the ck Sea.


    This sudden action drew many puzzled looks. What was the Tian family patriarch doing?


    As everyone wondered, the ck Sea began to churn violently, as if it were boiling. ck water surged up, overflowing.


    People were shocked, staring at the sea. What was happening in the ck Sea? The water was highly corrosive and could block divine senses, but was it just ck water, or was there something else?


    "There''s something at the bottom of the ck Sea!" someone suddenly shouted in rm.

 Chapter 750: The North Sea Fish

    <h4>Chapter 750: The North Sea Fish</h4>


    "There''s something at the bottom of the ck Sea!" someone on the shore suddenly shouted.


    "Rumble~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The entire ck Sea began to quake, causing the surrounding shores to tremble violently. Weaker cultivators almost lost their footing and quickly took to the skies.


    The ck Sea churned violently, a massive expanse stretching thousands of miles. What could be causing such a disturbance beneath these waters?


    The seawater of the ck Sea was highly corrosive, devoid of any life. Even strong cultivators dared not dwell within it for long, and even the spirits of the underworld would disintegrate upon contact.


    This was a dead sea, truly lifeless. In the underworld, such a sea had another name: the Nether Sea.


    What could be underneath? No life could survive there. Only Sovereign-level cultivators dared to touch the water, and only Emperor-level cultivators dared to dive in, but even they wouldn''t stay long. Not even Heaven-level cultivators would train there.


    What could be causing such amotion in this sea?


    In the sky, Di Xuanhe was fiercely battling ten Heaven-level cultivators, their sh creating ck holes that obscured everything.


    On the other side, Zhong Shan sat cross-legged on the head of the hundred-foot-long monster, its eight massive tails thrashing around, creating spatial rifts. Even Tian Xiaozi and the female elder hesitated.


    On the ck Sea, the water roared as it rose and fell, a powerful aura emanating from the depths.


    Sensing this aura, nearly all the surrounding cultivators felt a chill, their faces turning pale.


    Many quickly retreated, moving farther and farther back, leaving only a few Heaven-level cultivators to continue watching.


    Everyone watched in shock as the sea surged, revealing a massive creature.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a powerful ssh, a colossal bone banner shot up like a towering mountain, then sank back down.


    "It''sing out, it''sing out!" someone eximed.


    What was that? Everyone stared in disbelief.


    An ind? No, bigger��a continent? From the ck Sea, a massivendmass slowly emerged, with towering peaks piercing the clouds, each smooth and strangely shaped.


    Thendmass rose, stretching to a distant edge, spanning three thousand miles. A three-thousand-milendmass?


    "Wait! That''s not an ind; it''s a fish, a giant fish!" someone shouted in horror.


    A three-thousand-mile-long fish?


    Everyone watched in stunned disbelief. What was this? A three-thousand-mile-long fish? Impossible!


    Sure enough, as the enormity of it sank in, the colossal fish head emerged, its round forehead bulging, with two long dragon whiskers extending from its nose.


    "What kind of fish is that?"


    "I don''t know!"


    People stared nkly at the enormous fish, their eyes filled with confusion.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Two massive fins suddenly emerged from the sides of the fish.


    Two gigantic wings soared into the sky! Wings? They weren''t fins but bird wings. Roc wings. This enormous fish actually had the wings of a Roc.


    From a distance, people were dumbfounded. How could such a fish exist in the world?


    Among the stunned onlookers was the ancestor of the Yi family from the Great You Dynasty in the underworld. Beside him stood a blue-robed man holding a folding fan��the same Yi Lanque who had once helped Zhong Shan overthrow the Tian family by spreading the word.


    "Que''er, do you recognize this creature?" the Yi family ancestor asked Yi Lanque.


    Despite Yi Lanque''s rtively low cultivation level, he held an indispensable position within the Yi family, acting as the de facto master in the open, while secretly following Yi Lanque''s orders.


    "Behold the North Sea fish, named Kun. The Kun is so vast, spanning thousands of miles, and when it transforms into a bird, it is called the Roc. The Roc''s back is also immense, stretching thousands of miles. When it takes flight, its wings spread like the clouds across the sky," Yi Lanque said, tapping his folding fan thoughtfully.


    "A Kunpeng? The Kunpeng, ranked eighty-eighth on the divine beast list of the Grand Thousand Worlds? Are you saying this is a Kunpeng?" The Yi family ancestor was startled.


    "This ck Sea is precisely the Nether Sea, where neither living nor dead can linger. Isn''t it the perfect ce for a Kunpeng to be nurtured?" Yi Lanque exined.


    The Yi family ancestor stared in astonishment.


    "What should we do?" The ancestor''s eyes twitched nervously.


    "Step back for now. The Tian family has hidden a Kunpeng here, but this Kunpeng is still in its juvenile stage, predominantly in its ''Kun'' form. Let''s retreat and see what happens next," Yi Lanque advised.


    "Understood."


    The colossal Kunpeng, stretching three thousand miles long, made a breathtaking entrance. Tian Xiaozinded on its head.


    The Kunpeng turned, spreading its wings as it faced the Baji Tianwei.


    The emergence of the massive Kunpeng caused all but the Heaven-level experts to retreat, unable to withstand its presence.


    How powerful was the Kunpeng?


    No one knew for sure, but one thing was certain��it had not surpassed the twelfth level of the Heaven Extreme Realm, the limit for mortals. However, divine beasts differed from mortals, possessing unique abilities that far surpassed human capabilities.


    Like the gluttonous Taotie of old that devoured everything, the Brain-Eating Beast that inhabited countless minds, or the Fire Qilin that could either conceal its aura or incinerate the world.


    The Kunpeng was undoubtedly endowed with its own terrifying innate abilities.


    "Swallow them!" Tian Xiaozimanded, pointing towards Zhong Shan.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A deafening roar shook the surrounding space. The enormous Kunpeng opened its gaping maw, lunging towards Zhong Shan.


    With a span of thousands of miles, its mouth was terrifyingly vast.


    At that moment, the Baji Tianwei, having devoured the ughter Immortal Sword, turned crimson, its bloodthirsty aura skyrocketing, painting the sky red.


    "Chirp~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Baji Tianwei''s body began to grow, expanding rapidly until it reached a thousand feet. Its eight massive tails thrashed about, causing more and more space to shatter.


    The formidable Baji Tianwei showed no signs of slowing its growth.


    "What kind of monster is that? It can grow too?" someone from the crowd eximed in shock.


    Gradually, the Baji Tianwei''s figure became obscured as the expanding ck hole enveloped it, and the broken space grewrger andrger.


    The energy from the Immortal ying Sword was enormous, causing Ba Ji Tian Wei to grow uncontrobly. Its eight giant tails turned a bloody red, and its size rapidly expanded��first to a thousand feet, then a mile, and eventually, it reached over two thousand miles. The ck hole it created also expanded to over three thousand miles, making itparable to the size of Kunpeng.


    Tian Xiaozi, who wasmanding Kunpeng to attack, suddenly hesitated. He stared in shock at the massive ck hole, unable to believe that Ba Ji Tian Wei had grown to match Kunpeng''s size. What kind of monster was this?


    Half an hourter, the blood-red Ba Ji Tian Wei gradually returned to its original color. Its eight tails reverted from their bloody hue to their original eight colors as the Immortal ying Sword waspletely digested.


    This time, Ba Ji Tian Wei had truly feasted. Its eight tails stretched, causing the space around it to fracture. As the space stabilized, the scene within the ck hole was revealed.


    Zhong Shan stood atop Ba Ji Tian Wei''s head, facing off against Tian Xiaozi, who stood on Kunpeng. Both men, each on their colossal beasts, red at each other intensely.


    Tian Xiaozi felt frustrated and uneasy. Through Kunpeng''s instincts, he sensed fear��a fear of the monstrous creature in front of them. Kunpeng, which had been the Tian family''s hidden trump card, had its grandeur overshadowed almost immediately by Ba Ji Tian Wei.


    "Chiiyaaah!" Ba Ji Tian Wei let out a deafening cry toward Kunpeng.


    "Roooar!" Kunpeng responded, refusing to back down despite its fear. It was a proud divine beast.


    The roar from the two massive creatures caused the distant spectators to gulp in amazement. What were they witnessing? These weren''t just high-level cultivator battles; these were titanic shes of monstrous beasts beyond imagination.


    Zhong Shan stretched his muscles, his bones cracking as he felt a sense of relief and satisfaction. The breakthrough from absorbing the Immortal ying Sword''s energy had propelled him to the third level of the Heavenly Realm. If he could absorb the other three Immortal Swords��Extinguishing, Entrapping, and Absolute��how much more powerful would he be?


    Ba Ji Tian Wei had also experienced significant enhancements, its speed now rivaling that of an ordinary Heavenly Realm cultivator.


    "Tian Xiaozi, you are ambitious yetcking, intelligent but narrow-minded, clear-sighted but short-sighted, believing the world revolves around you? You dared to scheme against Zhong Shan? Today, I''ll leave you with asting impression!" Zhong Shan''s voice boomed.


    Zhong Shan spoke loudly, ensuring that all distant cultivators could hear him. It was as if he was making a public statement.


    In the distance, Yi Lanque, observing Zhong Shan, raised an eyebrow.


    "Retreat," Yi Lanque instructed the Yi family patriarch.


    The patriarch nodded and led the Yi family disciples further back.


    As Ba Ji Tian Wei''s eight massive tails swung with tremendous force, the sky shook violently. The powerful vibrations shattered the surrounding space, creating a massive ck hole that engulfed Ba Ji Tian Wei, Kunpeng, Zhong Shan, and Tian Xiaozi.

 Chapter 751: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Hidden Strength

    <h4>Chapter 751: Zhong Shan''s Hidden Strength</h4>


    In the world of the living, in the Realm of Longevity!


    Outside the Realm of Longevity, Daoist Master Shen Ya stood on the peak of a mountain with Ha Ma Lai, staring at another man before them.


    "Shen Qitian, you have finallye!" Ha Ma Lai said with a smile.


    Shen Qitian nced coldly at Ha Ma Lai.


    "Let''s go inside and talk in the Realm of Longevity," suggested Daoist Master Shen Ya.


    "Alright," Shen Qitian nodded.


    Just as the three mighty figures were about to step into the Realm of Longevity, a vast and immense aura suddenly emanated from within the realm.


    With the appearance of this aura, the sky outside the Realm of Longevity darkened, and an oppressive, terrifying atmosphere forced all nearby cultivators to kneel down abruptly.


    The immense aura spread outwards, causing all birds within a million miles to stop pping their wings in fright and fall straight down.


    As this overwhelming aura emerged, the world changed dramatically. Sand and rocks flew, and the surroundings were shrouded in a dark mist.


    This was no ordinary darkness; it was filled with malicious energy, so intense that it became visible.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A thunderous roar erupted from within the Realm of Longevity, shaking the external space violently. The powerful shockwaves turned endless mountain peaks outside the realm into dust. In the most intense areas, tiny spatial cracks even began to form.


    It was a roar filled with boundless anger, so infectious that it spread a powerful sense of rage.


    Shen Qitian frowned deeply, a sh of shock in his eyes. The Realm of Longevity? There was such a powerful old monster within? The sound waves alone were shaking the space uncontrobly, even causing spatial cracks in some areas. How could such a small world have such a strong individual?


    Ha Ma Lai also showed a look of fear. Known for his powerful sound waves, Ha Ma Lai found himself far outssed by this roar. Moreover, he could tell that the roar from the inner stronghold was merely an expression of anger, not a true sound wave technique. Just venting could cause such effects?


    Ha Ma Lai was filled with dread.


    Daoist Master Shen Ya''s pupils contracted, his brows furrowed as he looked in surprise towards the entrance of the Realm of Longevity.


    "Investigate the destruction of the Immortal yer! Send people to the underworld to investigate!" a venerable voice echoed from within the realm, indistinguishable between male and female.


    The destruction of the Immortal yer? Daoist Master Shen Ya''s face changed dramatically!


    In the world of the living, in the Qin Empire!


    Ying sat in the grand hall. As the old monster in the Realm of Longevity roared to the heavens, Ying''s pupils suddenly contracted, turning his head to look in the direction of the Realm of Longevity.


    Though it was far away, and he could not see the Realm of Longevity, Ying''s gaze seemed to pierce through everything.


    Ying paused. The ministers in the grand hall fell silent as well.


    Li Si looked at Ying, then followed his gaze towards the direction of the Realm of Longevity.


    "Your Majesty?" Li Si addressed Ying.


    "Li Si," Ying said calmly.


    "Present!"


    "At the entrance of the Realm of Longevity, the anger is soaring. It is that old monster within the realm who is furious. Send someone to investigate what has happened to make him so angry," Ying ordered calmly.


    "Yes!" Li Si bowed and replied.


    In the underworld, at the ck Sea...


    The spectators who had gathered to witness the ck Sea duel were already in a state of shock. Ever since Di Xuan Sha had be serious, everything had surpassed their understanding.


    The Da Jin Empire destroyed the Immortal Realm? An empire annihted a sacrednd? How absurd! Howughable!


    Yet, this was the reality. The immensely powerful Da Jin Empire had just recently destroyed the sacrednd of the Immortal Realm, which had been a stronghold in the underworld for tens of thousands of years. If this news hade from anyone else, the assembled experts would not have believed it. But it was spoken by Ye Qingcheng himself. Given that, how could it be false?


    When Zhong Shan was gambling with Ye Qingcheng, no one thought highly of Zhong Shan. After all, what could an emperor do, no matter how strong? Ye Qingcheng was one of the three great Heaven Tier masters!


    But now, looking back, their earlier thoughts seemedughable.


    An empire? So what if it''s an empire? This empire was more powerful than any other empire in history. No, it was more powerful than any celestial dynasty! Was this still just an empire?


    The emperor was present, and his vassals had destroyed a sacrednd? How strong and monstrous must the Da Jin''s national strength be?


    And that wasn''t all. Before them, Zhong Shan and Di Xuan Sha were even more monstrous.


    Di Xuan Sha and Zhong Shan had conspired to take Ye Qingcheng''s Immortal yer Sword? Di Xuan Sha was facing ten Heaven Tier masters alone?


    How strong was Di Xuan Sha? One against ten? How was this possible?


    It was too overwhelming, too monstrous. Was this the supreme being of the wolf tribe in the world of the living? Were all the strong in the world of the living so monstrous? It was too brutal!


    Of course, the people did not know that Zhong Shan was not justunching a two-pronged attack. He had also deployed another army. The Da Jin army in the southern underworld had surely already achieved great results, capturing cities and territories endlessly. With Xiao Wang''s rebellion, the Celestial Vein Empire was bound to suffer defeat after defeat. As for the Five Colors Empire, how long could it hold out after the Immortal Realm had been destroyed?


    The Da Jin Empire was too overwhelming!


    Yet, Zhong Shan still seemed far from satisfied. After destroying the Immortal Realm, he again faced off against the Tian family in front of everyone.


    Eight Tian family experts surrounded Di Xuan Sha.


    Tian Xiaozi, standing on a divine beast Kunpeng that spanned three thousand miles,unched a shocking attack on Zhong Shan.


    But Zhong Shan''s beast also expanded dramatically, reaching two thousand miles in length. A peak-level confrontation, a fierce showdown, a battle like this was a once-in-a-millennium event. Such a duel was truly the ultimate sh of the strongest.


    The sky held two immense ck holes.


    From the outside, people couldn''t see anything inside, but they could feel the fierce battle within. The fierce battle seemed to ignite the blood of everyone present, causing them to tremble with excitement.


    To avoid the shockwaves, people kept retreating. Even though they couldn''t see inside, no one was willing to leave! Just standing there felt like being part of the scene.


    Di Xuan Sha''s ck hole battle, with two Divine World Golden Wheels spinning around him, was facing attacks from ten top experts. Di Xuan Sha showed no fear, only a wild anticipation, a fervor that made his blood boil.


    "Come on!" Di Xuan Sha shouted excitedly, his eyes fixed on Ye Qingcheng.


    ording to Zhong Shan, Ye Qingcheng must die. Although Di Xuan Sha wasn''t as quick to grasp this as Zhong Shan, he had realized during the battle that Ye Qingcheng must not be spared. It wasn''t just his strength, but his identity and the spiritual symbol he represented. In the great world order, he would undoubtedly have a huge impact on Da Jin. Therefore, he must be killed!


    The Heaven Tier masters were no ordinary fighters, so the battle soon reached a fever pitch.


    In the other massive ck hole, Zhong Shan, Tian Xiaozi, Kunpeng, and Ba Ji Tianwei were engaged inbat!


    At Zhong Shan''s feet, the eight giant tails of Ba Ji Tianwei swung continuously, looking incredibly majestic. The eight tails had all regained their color, except for one red tail, which seemed to have recovered abnormally. That red tail emanated an extremely dense killing aura.


    Opposite, Tian Xiaozi stood on the head of Kunpeng, a cold glint shing in his eyes.


    "Beiming World!" Tian Xiaozi said in a deep voice.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a thunderous roar, swirling ck waters suddenly appeared around Kunpeng. These waters were the ck Sea''s waters, yet they were extraordinarily peculiar, able to exist even within the ck hole.


    In an instant, the endless waters engulfed the ck hole, transforming it entirely. Zhong Shan and Tian Xiaozi seemed to be in another world.


    This was a ''world,'' a domain created by Kunpeng. Wasn''t creating worlds something only immortals could do? Kunpeng''s world? Could this be a divine beast''s special ability?


    The vast, pitch-ck sea and the gloomy sky made this ''world'' farrger than the original ck Sea, more than a hundred times its size.


    The Beiming World?


    From afar, the massive Kunpeng dived down, rushing straight towards Zhong Shan and Ba Ji Tianwei.


    Despite the sudden change in surroundings, Zhong Shan remained unperturbed. He fixed his gaze on Tian Xiaozi. Watching Tian Xiaozi approach, Zhong Shan revealed a cold smile.


    With a flip of his hand, Zhong Shan put away his saber.


    His bare hands clenched into fists, and as his joints cracked audibly, veins bulged on the backs of his hands. At this moment, a faint silver light began to emanate from his hands.


    The silver light shimmered, apanied by strange runes swirling around his palms. These ethereal runes, seemingly both real and illusory, were shrouded in a faint white mist emanating from his fingers, making Zhong Shan''s palms appear incredibly mysterious.


    Zhong Shan prepared to face his opponent with his bare hands. This strange transformation in his hands had never been seen before.


    This meant that it was the first time Zhong Shan had used this technique in battle, a hidden method he had perhaps deemed unnecessary to conceal any longer.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Below, the Beiming Sea roared furiously. With a p of its wings, Kunpeng was upon them in an instant, its powerful roar carrying a heart-shaking might.


    "Eeyah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Ba Ji Tianwei''s eight tails swung, charging forward.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The two colossal beasts collided with a tremendous crash. Ba Ji Tianwei''s body coiled around Kunpeng''s exterior.


    Kunpeng trembled, almost shaking off Ba Ji Tianwei. At that moment, Ba Ji Tianwei''s red tail suddenly detached from Kunpeng, made a sharp turn in mid-air, and the tip of the red tail stabbed straight towards Kunpeng''s right wing.


    "Kunpeng''s feathers are like celestial shields. How dare you collide with a soft tail?" Tian Xiaozi sneered.


    But at that moment, the red tail transformed.


    "Swish~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Like a sharp sword slicing through space, the tip of the tail suddenly turned into the de of a red sword. The frenzied killing intent erupted, and endless sword energy shot out from the red tail, piercing in all directions.


    "Immortal yer Sword?" Tian Xiaozi eximed in shock.


    "Swish~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The red tail pierced Kunpeng''s wing. At this moment, Zhong Shan, with his powerful, strange palms, leaped towards Tian Xiaozi.


    The scene unfolded rapidly. Tian Xiaozi''s confidence in Kunpeng''s invincibility was shattered as the red tail transformed into the Immortal yer Sword, a symbol of unstoppable killing power. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan, revealing his mysterious and formidable hand technique for the first time, leaped towards his enemy, ready to demonstrate the true extent of his hidden strength. The battle, filled with unexpected turns and unimaginable power, showcased the peak of the world''s mightiestbatants, leaving the onlookers in awe and trembling with excitement.

 Chapter 752: The Heaven-Opening Palm

    <h4>Chapter 752: The Heaven-Opening Palm</h4>


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The red tail of Ba Ji Tianwei pierced through Kunpeng''s mighty wing, a defense of celestial shield level, yet it was prated by Ba Ji Tianwei''s tail?


    The red tail withdrew, bringing with it a gush of Kunpeng''s blood.


    The extreme pain caused Kunpeng''s body to tremble violently, shaking the entire Beiming World. The Beiming Sea below surged upwards, with the ck Sea''s waters roaring towards the sky.


    The violent tremors flung Ba Ji Tianwei away.


    Kunpeng, three thousand miles long, was ultimately too vast for Ba Ji Tianwei, who was only two thousand miles, to fully entangle. The massive shake dislodged Ba Ji Tianwei.


    Kunpeng, having shaken off Ba Ji Tianwei, wore a fierce and enraged expression. The earlier fear had vanished, and Ba Ji Tianwei showed no fear either. The blood-red tail, now resembling the Immortal yer Sword, seemed to carry its terrifying power, making Ba Ji Tianwei formidable.


    Though Ba Ji Tianwei''s overall strength might not match Kunpeng''s, the red tail, akin to a scorpion''s stinger with the Immortal yer Sword''s power, rendered Ba Ji Tianwei fearless!


    The two colossal beasts shed fiercely.


    As Ba Ji Tianwei struck with its tail, Zhong Shan charged at Tian Xiaozi.


    The two Heaven Tier geniuses engaged in a heated battle.


    Tian Xiaozi, a true genius of the Tian family, wielded numerous ancestral treasures, often bearing celestial artifacts in battle.


    Zhong Shan''s ''Heavenly sh! Thousand Waves!'' was incredibly powerful, having shattered a celestial artifact with one stroke earlier. This disy of power made Tian Xiaozi take Zhong Shan seriously, not daring to underestimate him.


    At this moment, Tian Xiaozi was equipped with a new celestial artifact, prepared to face Zhong Shan''s saber. But Zhong Shan had put away his saber and attacked with his strange hands?


    Tian Xiaozi wielded a celestial sword!


    The Tian Family Patriarch''s sword, the Tian Vein Sword!


    The Tian Vein Sword, a relic from the founder of the Tian family in the underworld, was a true celestial sword!


    Tian Xiaozi thrust the sword forward, the powerful Tian Vein Sword aiming straight at Zhong Shan.


    A ten-thousand-zhang sword aura, vast and sharp, surged towards Zhong Shan. Though not as monstrous as the Immortal yer Sword, its momentum wasparable.


    Facing this strike, Tian Xiaozi expected Zhong Shan to dodge, even nning the sword''s movements.


    But Zhong Shan did not dodge. Instead, he extended his right palm, transforming it into a de, and met the sword head-on.


    As the palm struck out, a massive palm de shadow appeared in the void, surrounded by endless runes and shrouded in mist, looking unreal.


    The sword aura and the palm de shadow collided.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a loud bang, Tian Xiaozi was forced back a hundred zhang, while Zhong Shan stood still.


    One palm had neutralized the Tian Vein Sword''s sword aura. Zhong Shan frowned slightly at the Tian Vein Sword. How powerful was this sword?


    Zhong Shan was puzzled, but Tian Xiaozi was shocked, his eyes filled with disbelief. How could this be? How was Zhong Shan''s palm so powerful? This was a celestial sword!


    Impossible, Tian Xiaozi refused to believe it. He swung his sword again, unleashing another extreme sword force straight at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s hands, sometimes turning into palm des, sometimes into fists, shed fiercely with the Tian Vein Sword again and again.


    "Boom~~~ Boom~~~ Boom~~~ Boom~~~ Boom~~~!"


    From sword aura against shadow to the final sh of Zhong Shan''s palm and the Tian Vein Sword''s de, each strike saw the Tian Vein Sword repelled without sess.


    Zhong Shan was growing more exhrated with each sh, while Tian Xiaozi was bing increasingly fearful!


    Those palms? How could there be such powerful hands in the world? Hands that rival celestial artifacts?


    Impossible, absolutely impossible!


    Tian Xiaozi''s heart was filled with endless terror. He thrust his sword again, and they both retreated, with Tian Xiaozi staring in horror at Zhong Shan''s rune-covered hands from afar.


    Tian Xiaozi struggled to calm his scattered thoughts, forcing himself to remainposed. What was going on?


    Calming down, Tian Xiaozi tested with another strike of the Tian Vein Sword.


    Zhong Shan responded with another palm strike!


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Another palm shadow appeared in the void, surrounded by endless rune shadows, which then dispersed and faded away.


    Suddenly, a sh of insight struck Tian Xiaozi''s mind, and he looked at Zhong Shan with extreme disbelief.


    "Runes? Runes? Those are the runes from the Heaven-Opening Axe! My family has records, those are the runes from the Heaven-Opening Axe! That''s the Heaven-Opening Axe!" Tian Xiaozi eximed, pointing at Zhong Shan''s hands.


    The runes on Zhong Shan''s hands shimmered faintly, glowing with silver light and surrounded by white mist, appearing incredibly mysterious.


    Hearing Tian Xiaozi''s exmation, Zhong Shan smiled calmly, "The Tian family indeed has a long heritage, to even know this."


    "The Heaven-Opening Axe, is it really the Heaven-Opening Axe? Impossible! When the ancient divine power perished, the soul of the Heaven-Opening Axe scattered into the world. Even if the ancient divine power were to be resurrected, he would never retrieve it. How do you have the Heaven-Opening Axe? How is it possible?" Tian Xiaozi screamed.


    "The Heaven-Opening Axe, where did ite from?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    "The Heaven-Opening Axe, it''s said to be a form of heavenlyw bestowed by the grand world, condensed into an axe shape and falling into the small world, awaiting someone with great fortune to open a new small world. Once its owner dies, it dissipates into the heavens and earth, to reappear after tens of thousands of years. It has been passed down through ancient times," Tian Xiaozi exined.


    "So you know it''s a heavenlyw bestowed by the grand world? When the ancient divine power perished, the Heaven-Opening Axe scattered into the world. But who said it has to wait for ten thousand years to reappear?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "It reappeared early?" Tian Xiaozi was startled.


    Perhaps it was the grand world''s heavenlyw at work. The external world had already seen the grand opening phenomenon, attracting numerous forces from the grand world, and the Heaven-Opening Axe within this small world must have reappeared early.


    "What do you think?" Zhong Shan replied.


    "You actually obtained it? You are the person with great fortune? Why? Why not me!" Tian Xiaozi''s eyes turned red with anger.


    "You don''t have enough fortune!" Zhong Shan retorted.


    Tian Xiaozi red at Zhong Shan with red eyes. Indeed, only a person with great fortune could obtain the Heaven-Opening Axe. Zhong Shan''s fortune was too deep.


    "Don''t get too cocky. Throughout history, you are not the only one to have obtained the Heaven-Opening Axe. But none of them seeded in opening the heavens. Moreover, every one of them, even those with great fortune, met a terrible end, their bodies and souls destroyed! Even before the ancient divine power, each one who obtained the Heaven-Opening Axe saw their fortune exhausted, the axe seized by others, and met a grim fate!" Tian Xiaozi said with jealousy.


    "You are right. They all met grim ends. But what if I seed in opening the heavens?" Zhong Shan said with a faint smile.


    "Seed in opening the heavens? Impossible. Even the ancient divine power did not seed. How could you?" Tian Xiaozi sneered.


    "I am different from him!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s confidence, Tian Xiaozi''s pupils suddenly contracted. Something was wrong; Zhong Shan was not wielding the Heaven-Opening Axe but a pair of hands.


    "You, where is your Heaven-Opening Axe? You turned the Heaven-Opening Axe into your hands? What are you trying to do?" Tian Xiaozi suddenly screamed.


    "I don''t want to return it to the heavens!" Zhong Shan replied with a wicked smile, stepping forward and rushing towards Tian Xiaozi.


    Not wanting to return it to the heavens? Such arrogant words could onlye from Zhong Shan.


    The Heaven-Opening Axe, a ''heavenlyw guide'' bestowed by the grand world, wielded immense power. The Heaven-Opening Axe was ultimately an external object; once someone seeded in opening the heavens, it would inevitably be reimed by the grand world and dissipate.


    How could Zhong Shan bear to part with such a treasure?


    The grand world chose Zhong Shan, bestowing upon him this fortune. Upon obtaining the Heaven-Opening Axe''s soul, Zhong Shan''s first instinct was to im it for himself. If he failed to open the heavens, it would vanish; if he seeded, it would still be reimed.


    Once it was in Zhong Shan''s possession, how could he let it go? Zhong Shan''s immediate reaction was to fully refine it.


    Regardless of what kind of treasure it was refined into, it would eventually be reimed. Zhong Shan was unwilling to ept this, so he decided to refine it into his body, making it a part of himself.


    The Heaven-Opening Axe''s soul, though the weakest form of a ''heavenlyw guide,'' was still too powerful for a mortal body to withstand. However, Zhong Shan was an exception. The Heaven Demon Body Tempering Technique could temporarily boost his strength, but its true purpose was tempering the body. At its sixth level, Zhong Shan''s body was as strong as an immortal''s, invincible.


    Even so, Zhong Shan had to borrow the Da Jin Empire''s national fortune to fully refine the Heaven-Opening Axe''s soul.


    These hands, now transformed into heaven-opening divine artifacts, were unparalleled!


    Zhong Shan was determined to keep the Heaven-Opening Axe!


    This was the first time Zhong Shan had used it in battle, and it left Tian Xiaozi deeply shaken.


    Zhong Shan knew Tian Xiaozi well. His ambition was the greatest in the Tian family''s history, and with such ambition, he would never reveal Zhong Shan''s secret. If he did, countless powerful beings would swarm to the Da Jin Empire, and Tian Xiaozi''s ambitions would bepletely thwarted.


    "Boom!" Zhong Shan struck again with his palm.


    The solid hand, now infused with the Heaven-Opening Axe, carried an even sharper and more unstoppable momentum. This strike was like a divine weapon cleaving through the heavens, invincible.


    Of course, even with the Heaven-Opening Axe''s soul, his hands were not at their strongest. Even the ancient divine power had not reached its ultimate strength with the Heaven-Opening Axe''s soul without years of sacrifice.


    However, with the Heaven-Opening Axe''s soul, a heavenly guide, these hands would continue to grow stronger without any bottleneck, reaching new heights with each strike, embodying the act of opening the heavens.


    "I call these hands ''Heaven-Opening Palms,''" Zhong Shanughed.


    His right hand formed a palm de and struck towards Tian Xiaozi again, shing with the Tian Vein Sword.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Tian Vein Sword trembled and deflected to the side.


    "Snap!"


    Zhong Shan''s left hand caught the Tian Vein Sword.


    Tian Xiaozi''s eyes widened in shock and disbelief. The famed celestial sword, which had never met its match, was now firmly in Zhong Shan''s grasp. The Heaven-Opening Palms, forged from the soul of the Heaven-Opening Axe, had proven to be an unparalleled force, marking Zhong Shan as a true master of divine power and a force to be reckoned with in the world.

 Chapter 753: Shattered Bones

    <h4>Chapter 753: Shattered Bones</h4>


    "Snap!"


    Zhong Shan''s left palm grabbed hold of the Tian Vein Sword!


    Having one''s weapon seized was a fatal threat. Tian Xiaozi frantically tried to pull back the Tian Vein Sword, but to no avail. Despite its power, the celestial sword was no match for the heaven-guided hand, the celestial weapon held firm in Zhong Shan''s grasp.


    With his left hand gripping the Tian Vein Sword, Zhong Shan struck out with his right palm towards Tian Xiaozi.


    This strike, like a silver meteor, aimed directly at Tian Xiaozi''s chest. In the void, countless runes surrounded the palm, creating a vast and formidable presence. It was an unstoppable force, an invincible momentum.


    Seeing the approaching palm, Tian Xiaozi felt as if he were facing the de of the Heaven-Opening Axe, an unstoppable force rushing towards his chest.


    Counterattack with his own palm?


    Tian Xiaozi realized with despair that this hand, infused with heavenly guidance, was a destructive force of nature. No matter how powerful his palm strike was, it would be reduced to dust against the Heaven-Opening Palm.


    Release the sword and escape?


    Ye Qingcheng had been a precedent. Once he released the sword, Zhong Shan would seize the Tian Vein Sword. Tian Xiaozi would be utterly doomed.


    Tian Xiaozi did not let go of the sword; he couldn''t.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a thunderous roar, Tian Xiaozi''s body erupted with a powerful white me. He used a secret technique to explosively increase his strength.


    Under this frantic surge of power, the Tian Vein Sword finally broke free from Zhong Shan''s left hand with a fierce yank.


    Increased strength?


    Zhong Shan paid no heed, his right palm continued its relentless strike towards Tian Xiaozi.


    Despite the surge in Tian Xiaozi''s power and hisst-moment retrieval of the Tian Vein Sword, it was toote. Zhong Shan''s Heaven-Opening Palm struck his chest.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a loud explosion, a massive shadow briefly appeared in the void before slowly dissipating.


    The impact shattered Tian Xiaozi''s clothes, but on his chest was a bronze mirror, like a heart-protecting mirror, attached to his skin.


    Zhong Shan''s palm strike caused a crack to appear on the bronze mirror.


    "Ugh!"


    The bronze mirror absorbed most of the impact, but Tian Xiaozi still spat out a mouthful of blood. Even the residual force was too much for him to withstand.


    Leaving a trail of blood in the air, Tian Xiaozi was sent flying.


    "Another celestial artifact?" Zhong Shan remarked with a hint of surprise as he looked at Tian Xiaozi''s chest.


    A celestial artifact? How many treasures did the Tian family of the underworld possess? Such profound heritage, and this was just a branch family not favored by Tian Shenzi. The main branch, where Tian Shenzi resided, must possess even greater wealth.


    Mount Tianxia had been moved to Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    That day, following Tian Shenzi inside, Zhong Shan had seen clearly: eighteen peerless powerhouses in seclusion, each with the aura of primal energy, and Tian Shenzi wielding the Bu Zhou Mountain Staff. The other seventeen must also possess peerless weapons. Moreover, Zhong Shan had noticed an unopened bronze door inside.


    That door surely concealed more secrets of the Tian family!


    Such heritage, these were the depths of their foundation.


    The Tian family of the underworld indeed had a vast reserve of celestial artifacts!


    Tian Xiaozi, who had been sent flying, did not strike back with his sword. Instead, with a wave of his hand, the Tian Vein Sword was absorbed into his body.


    The Tian Vein Sword entered his body? Was he not nning to continue fighting?


    It wasn''t that Tian Xiaozi didn''t want to fight, but Zhong Shan was too fierce. With the Heaven-Opening Palms, how could he possibly win?


    On the other side, Ba Ji Tianwei had entangled Kunpeng. The two fierce beasts continued to sh relentlessly. Despite taking numerous heavy blows from Kunpeng, Ba Ji Tianwei showed no fear. Its red tail had also inflicted hundreds of bloody wounds on Kunpeng''s body.


    Both beasts, having gone mad with rage, attacked ceaselessly. Their fierce battle caused the ck Sea in the distance to roar to the sky, turning heaven and earth upside down.


    Zhong Shan stepped forward, chasing after Tian Xiaozi.


    At this moment, Tian Xiaozi was gravely injured but did not show fear. Instead, he revealed a faint smile, a smile filled with helplessness and a hint of madness.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Zhong Shan struck Tian Xiaozi''s leg with another palm. White light erupted from Tian Xiaozi''s leg, shing with the power of Zhong Shan''s palm. Countless rune shadows scattered from Zhong Shan''s hand.


    With a single palm, Tian Xiaozi''s right leg bone shattered, but his leg did not detach from his body.


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Tian Xiaozi roared in pain, sweat pouring from his forehead, followed by a crazed smile.


    "The Tian Vein Sword has fused into your body? Strengthening your physique?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "You can''t kill me! Hahaha!" Tian Xiaoziughed painfully.


    "Can''t kill you? Do you really think I can''t kill you?" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "It''s not that your strength can''t kill me, but that you won''t kill me. I am the head of the Tian family. If you kill me, all the elders in Jingbo Pool will swarm the Da Jin Empire. Then, how will you defend yourself? So you won''t kill me. That''s why you said ''leave me with a thought'' before the battle. Since you want to leave me with a thought, I won''t die. You never nned to kill me!" Tian Xiaozi seemed to have figured it out, no longer fearing death.


    Zhong Shan wouldn''t kill Tian Xiaozi? Indeed, Zhong Shan wouldn''t kill him. After the destruction of the Immortal Realm, the situation had be much clearer. The Da Jin Empire was destined to be the southern hegemon. If Tian Xiaozi were to die, the Tian family would move against them, and countless conspirators in the underworld would seize the opportunity to harm Da Jin. The clear advantage of the Da Jin Empire would immediately turn into a disadvantage. So Zhong Shan wouldn''t kill him.


    "But I said I would leave you with a thought!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "What are you going to do?" A sh of fear crossed Tian Xiaozi''s heart.


    "I won''t kill you, but I can shatter your bones. I will make you remember this pain forever!" Zhong Shan stepped forward again.


    Outside, Yi Lanque led the Yi family in a rapid retreat, moving further and further away.


    "Lan''er, is this far enough? We''ve retreated quite a distance!" the Yi family patriarch frowned.


    At that moment, the ck hole where Kunpeng and Ba Ji Tianwei were fighting suddenly expanded a hundredfold. The massive spatial shockwaves caused countless nearby experts to spit blood and retreat frantically once more.


    They continued to retreat!


    But the shockwaves kept increasing in intensity, too shocking, too terrifying.


    Was this just the aftershock?


    The Yi family patriarch looked on in amazement, then turned to Yi Lanque. Sure enough, Lanque''s warning had been spot on.


    "Lanque, is the Da Jin Empire really that monstrous? Destroying a sacrednd, and now fighting the Tian family?" the Yi family patriarch said in astonishment.


    "�󍔵۳��dz�ǿ��!Ѹ������,������޿�ƥ��!" Yi Lanque said gravely.


    "But still, it''s just an empire. How could it be so powerful?" the Yi family patriarch asked in disbelief.


    "Powerful? More than just powerful. The Da Jin Empire spans both the realms of the living and the dead. Do you think that''s not impressive?" Yi Lanque took a deep breath.


    "Really?" The Yi family patriarch was shocked.


    "You don''t follow the events in the world of the living, so you wouldn''t know. Not long ago, I got information from a soul who had just died and turned into a ghost. In the world of the living, the world is divided into three parts, and the Da Jin Empire controls a third of it. One empire, standing on equal footing with two celestial empires!" Yi Lanque exined.


    "How is that possible? That can''t be true."


    "Isn''t the scene before us the best proof? The Da Jin Empire has that kind of strength. You should know how deep the waters run in the world of the living. To control a third of it, the Da Jin Empire is not to be underestimated," Yi Lanque said seriously.


    "And this Zhong Shan...?"


    "Don''t even think about it. Zhong Shan is a true tyrant of the world, deeply strategic, with countless strong and wise men under hismand. This kind of emperor is truly terrifying!" Yi Lanque said.


    "Deeply strategic?"


    "I am certain that after this battle, the southern underworld will be decided, and it will entirely fall under Da Jin''s territory!" Yi Lanque stated.


    "What about the Tian family? What about the Tian Vein Empire?"


    "The Tian Vein Empire will definitely be defeated. As for the Tian family, unless their old monsters intervene, they can''t turn the tide. The influence of the Tian family in the underworld will diminish."


    "Is Zhong Shan really that formidable?"


    Yi Lanque furrowed his brows, taking a deep breath. "He''s not just formidable; he''s terrifying. I''ve been studying Zhong Shan for a long time. During thest siege against the Tian family, I witnessed his ability to control his opponents psychologically. That''s the most terrifying part!"


    "Psychological control?"


    "Yes, controlling the opponent''s mind. How can the opponent win then?"


    The Yi family patriarch and Yi Lanque fell into a deep silence.


    Almost everyone had retreated far away, only a few strong individuals remained close to watch.


    The battlested four hours, and four hourster.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    From thergest ck hole came a thunderous roar as countless ck waters surged out. A colossal figure, a three-thousand-li-long Kunpeng, spread its wings and flew out.


    The gigantic Kunpeng, once invincible, was now covered in blood, riddled with wounds, and its wings were full of holes.


    Kunpeng looked so pitiful?


    Nearly all the onlookers were stunned with fear.


    Lying on top of Kunpeng''s head was a person, Tian Xiaozi. But Tian Xiaozi''s body waspletely limp, like a pile of mud. Even his facial bones were shattered.


    If he were a mortal, he would have died countless times over.


    It was a terrible sight! Too horrific to look at without shivering. Was this done by Zhong Shan? Too brutal!


    But where was Zhong Shan? Why hadn''t hee out?


    "Patriarch!" Nu Tiao suddenly flew over.


    Seeing Tian Xiaozi''s miserable state, Nu Tiao felt a shiver run down his spine. With all his bones shattered and his body ruined, such severe injuries, even at the Heaven Tier, would take at least a hundred years to recover.


    "Gather everyone, we''re going home!" Tian Xiaozi managed to say, his voice filled with despair.

 Chapter 754: Jingbo Pool Water, Life Spring

    <h4>Chapter 754: Jingbo Pool Water, Life Spring</h4>


    "Gather everyone, we''re going home!" Tian Xiaozi said with great difficulty, his voice filled with deep regret and sorrow that tugged at the heartstrings of all who heard it.


    "Yes!" Nu Tiao immediately responded.


    Nu Tiao cast a spell towards the ck hole where Di Xuan Sha was. Shortly, eight strong Tian family members emerged.


    These eight experts were in a miserable state. Although they were not dead, their injuries revealed the intensity of the internal battle. Each had at least a hundred wounds, their clothes soaked in blood, their hair disheveled, and their faces marked by utter distress.


    Seeing the eight figures emerging from the ck hole, countless onlookers around felt a chill. Di Xuan Sha? One against ten, yet still so fierce? Indeed, a peerless formidable figure.


    "Patriarch!"


    As the eight injured experts flew out, they immediately saw Tian Xiaozi lying like a heap of mud on top of Kunpeng''s head.


    Compared to the patriarch''s injuries, the wounds from fighting Di Xuan Sha seemed mild.


    "Let''s go home!" Tian Xiaozi said.


    Kunpeng spread its wings, carrying the Tian family members towards the west, heading back to the Tian family headquarters in the underworld.


    In this battle, the Tian family was defeated?


    People watched the two shrinking ck holes with increasing horror. The monstrous Da Jin Empire? Zhong Shan?


    The ck hole where Zhong Shan was located was the first to stabilize.


    As the ck hole vanished, revealing Zhong Shan standing on the now hundred-zhang Ba Ji Tianwei, many looked at him with admiration.


    The wind blew, making Zhong Shan''s cloak flutter, enhancing his imposing figure.


    Was it Zhong Shan who had beaten Tian Xiaozi to such a state? This battle in the ck Sea would undoubtedly make Zhong Shan''s name famous throughout the underworld.


    The ck hole where Di Xuan Sha was located also gradually stabilized after the Tian family''s eight strong experts left, revealing Di Xuan Sha inside.


    Di Xuan Sha''s two golden wheels of the world, one circling around him and the other shing towards Ye Qingcheng.


    Without the Immortal yer Sword, Ye Qingcheng''s strength had greatly diminished. His body was covered with wounds, making him look more miserable than the eight Tian family members who had left. He appeared weak and exhausted.


    This exhaustion was not just physical but also mental. The once spirited Ye Qingcheng now seemed much older.


    As for thest Heaven Tier expert, Daoist Master Hong Jian, he had already been split in two by Di Xuan Sha''s golden wheel of the world.


    Ye Qingcheng, the primary target of Di Xuan Sha, had not been defeated solely because of a floating yellow talisman in front of him.


    The talisman emitted a faint yellow light, enveloping Ye Qingcheng in a protective aura. Despite Di Xuan Sha''s golden wheel repeatedly striking it like a saw, the talisman remained intact.


    The talisman bore strange runes, their meaning indiscernible.


    This stalemate had persisted for a long time, with the golden wheel failing to breach the protective shield, although the yellow barrier seemed to tremble slightly.


    Di Xuan Sha''s eyes grew cold. With a wave of his hand, the other golden wheel of the world rushed forward fiercely.


    As the golden wheel sliced through the sky, it left a ck trail.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The other golden wheel mmed into the yellow talisman.


    With a thunderous explosion, the talisman shattered.


    "It''s broken!" eximed countless onlookers excitedly.


    Yes, the yellow talisman had finally been cut through. However, instead of simply disintegrating, the shattered talisman turned into a surge of yellow energy that rushed into Ye Qingcheng''s body.


    All the surrounding yellow light converged and was absorbed by Ye Qingcheng.


    As the yellow light receded, Ye Qingcheng''s body suddenly emitted a brilliant white light.


    This was bad!


    Di Xuan Sha''s eyebrows furrowed as he directed his two golden wheels of the world to strike Ye Qingcheng''s body.


    Ye Qingcheng''s entire body shone with white light!


    "Whoosh!"


    The two golden wheels shed through empty air. Ye Qingcheng''s body had vanished? Disappeared into thin air?


    Countless people rubbed their eyes in disbelief. Had Ye Qingcheng just vanished in a sh of white light? Was he really gone? Just disappeared like that?


    Di Xuan Sha''s pupils contracted, staring at the scene. Ye Qingcheng had just vanished suddenly?


    Zhong Shan was equally puzzled.


    "Where did he go?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "I felt a spatial fluctuation just now. It was that talisman. The talisman took Ye Qingcheng away!" Di Xuan Sha said in a deep voice.


    The two golden wheels swiftly returned to Di Xuan Sha''s body, disappearing within him.


    "He escaped?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Yes!" Di Xuan Sha nodded.


    Letting out a faint sigh, Zhong Shan''s eyes showed a hint of regret. "No matter, our mission this time is mostly aplished."


    "Indeed."


    Turning around, Zhong Shan looked at the numerous experts surrounding them. At this moment, countless strong individuals were gazing up at the two of them with admiration.


    The Emperor of Da Jin, Zhong Shan! The Wolf Tribe Supreme, Di Xuan Sha! These two were overwhelmingly powerful!


    Looking at all the experts, Zhong Shan loudly proimed, "Three years from now, the Da Jin Empire will hold an open examination. Those who wish to join Da Jin should prepare in advance!"


    With a loud promation, Zhong Shan stepped on Ba Ji Tianwei, and together with Di Xuan Sha, they disappeared into the sky.


    Zhong Shan left, but the onlookers remained in a state of excitement.


    Zhong Shan''s strategy and power had won over most of the experts. Now that Zhong Shan announced the open examination, countless experts felt their hearts stir.


    On a distant mountain peak.


    Yi Lanque watched the excited crowd and sighed, "I underestimated him."


    "What do you mean?" the Yi family patriarch asked.


    "The ck Sea duel made Zhong Shan the biggest winner. Destroying the Immortal Realm, defeating the Tian family, and now he''s won the hearts of countless experts! After this battle, at least half of the experts around the ck Sea will head straight for Da Jin''s examination. What a vast strategy Zhong Shan has." Yi Lanque sighed deeply.


    In just one year, the fierce battle at the ck Sea had spread throughout the world. The Da Jin Empire, the powerful Da Jin Empire, was unprecedented. Destroying the Immortal Realm, fierce battles at the ck Sea, defeating the Tian family! People watched memory crystals and listened to veterans'' passionate recounts, all filling them with longing for Da Jin. It was a nation of strong individuals, an empire destined for infinite glory!


    "I''ve decided, I''m going to take part in the Da Jin Empire''s open examination in two years!" "Me too!" ... Talented individuals eagerly flocked to the Da Jin Empire. The Da Jin Empire was heading towards a golden age��


    In the underworld''s Tian family, within the Jingbo Pool.


    Tian Xiaoziy on a wide chair, seemingly unconscious. Beside him, an elder took a spoon, scooped some water from the Jingbo Pool, and fed it to Tian Xiaozi.


    "The Spring of Life will elerate Tian Xiaozi''s recovery!" Tian Chenzi remarked.


    The Spring of Life was a type of life-infused water found only in the Creation God Pce. In the past, Bing Xuan had obtained a box of it to please Bei Qingsi. However, it had been contaminated by airborne dust and, under Zhong Shan''s refined ''microscope,'' was found to contain countless microorganisms.


    That Spring of Life turned out to be just water from the Jingbo Pool. It seemed that the legendary Spring of Life from the Creation God Pce also came from this pool.


    As a spoonful of the Spring of Life entered his stomach, Tian Xiaozi slowly opened his eyes. Though he couldn''t move, his face had mostly recovered over the past year.


    Upon waking, Tian Xiaozi nced at the surrounding elders, sighed lightly, and closed his eyes again.


    Tian Chenzi looked at Tian Xiaozi and asked, "Patriarch, how did you and Kunpeng get so severely injured?"


    "It was my miscalction!" Tian Xiaozi shook his head.


    "Even the bronze mirror on your chest broke. What weapon did Zhong Shan use to even cut through a celestial artifact? Was it that big saber?" Tian Chenzi frowned.


    Tian Xiaozi recalled that day. It wasn''t the saber that struck him; it was a palm strike from Zhong Shan.


    The Heaven-Opening Axe? Tian Xiaozi''s eyes reddened at the thought. Why was Zhong Shan chosen by the grand world and not him?


    "What is it?" Tian Chenzi asked again.


    Tian Xiaozi looked at Tian Chenzi with a nk expression, but his heart was in turmoil. The Heaven-Opening Axe was mine. I can''t tell anyone, especially the Grand Elder! If he finds out, he will definitely im it for himself. It''s mine! Once I recover, I will make Zhong Shan pay dearly!


    "It was... it was the big saber. Zhong Shan''s technique, I couldn''t match it," Tian Xiaozi sighed.


    Tian Chenzi looked at Tian Xiaozi with a slight frown, then nodded.


    "Focus on your recovery," Tian Chenzi said.


    "Yes," Tian Xiaozi replied and was taken away.


    In the Tian Vein Hall!


    Tian Xiaoziy immobile, surrounded by important members of the Tian family.


    "Patriarch, Xiao Wang has indeed betrayed us, defecting to the Da Jin Empire and offering thirty-five cities, all critical points!" Nu Tiao said angrily.


    "Impossible, I don''t believe it. Ruyan is still in my hands. Xiao Wang cannot betray me!" Tian Xiaozi''s face turned red with agitation.


    "Patriarch, Ruyan was swapped!" a Tian family member said.


    "What?" Tian Xiaozi''s chest heaved, worsening his already fragile state.


    "It must have happened when the ancient divine beast attacked our Tian family. Someone sent by Zhong Shan took her and left behind a counterfeit ghost!" the man exined.


    "Zhong Shan? Again Zhong Shan, nning this from so early on? This is too much!" Tian Xiaozi eximed, anger overwhelming him.


    "Ugh!" Tian Xiaozi coughed up a mouthful of blood from the intense rage.


    "Patriarch, you should prioritize your recovery. With the Spring of Life, you should fully recover within ten years. Don''t worry about the Tian Vein Empire. Let me handle it!" another person urged with concern.


    Shaking his head, Tian Xiaozi said, "We can''t hold onto the southern cities we captured. With Xiao Wang, who knows the terrain, as theirmander, we can''t defend them. Withdraw our forces from the south and consolidate our strength in the central regions of the Tian Vein Empire."


    The group gritted their teeth but ultimately nodded in agreement. "Yes!"

 Chapter 755: Bestowing the Sword

    <h4>Chapter 755: Bestowing the Sword</h4>


    In the underworld, Changjing! In the Unending Hall of the court!


    "From today, I appoint Xiao Wang as themander of the tenth legion of the Da Jin Empire!" Zhong Shan announced solemnly.


    "As youmand!" Xiao Wang bowed deeply.


    The Da Jin Empire had added another legionmander, Xiao Wang. Although some were dissatisfied, Xiao Wang''s capabilities were undeniable. All he needed was to umte enough military achievements in the uing campaign against the Tian Vein Empire to silence any dissent.


    "Yan Chongzhi!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Present!" Yan Chongzhi, themander of the seventh legion, immediately stepped forward.


    "In two years, oversee the Changjing imperial examination. Handle the specific matters," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "As youmand!" Yan Chongzhi responded promptly.


    Yan Chongzhi was put in charge of selecting talents, while the other legionmanders would handle the southern war efforts in the underworld.


    Xiao Wang would deal with the Tian Vein Empire, and the Five Colors Empire, having lost the support of the Immortal Realm, had be insignificant.


    The Da Jin Empire''s army was now dominating the southern underworld.


    In the north, the remaining sacrednd and celestial empire in the underworld did not send troops south. They couldn''t afford to. The long journey would be futile, and with Da Jin''s growing national strength, their military power was now unstoppable.


    As for the Tian family, Tian Xiaozi, heavily injured by Zhong Shan, would not be making any moves for a while. Even with the help of the Spring of Life, his recovery would take at least ten years. The injuries inflicted by Zhong Shan were too severe; pulverized bones were not easily healed.


    In ten years? By the time Tian Xiaozi recovered, Zhong Shan might have already fully conquered the southern underworld.


    Large sects? Large empires? These no longer concerned Zhong Shan. The Da Jin Empire''s army was now sweeping through the southern underworld with unstoppable force.


    The will of the people, the will of heaven. An unstoppable momentum.


    The Da Jin Empire''s influence was expanding madly, and its power was soaring.


    Zhong Shan no longer needed to travel constantly. Sitting in Changjing was enough.


    In the past, during the ck Sea battle, Ye Qingcheng had suddenly disappeared.


    Ye Qingcheng found himself traveling through a yellow tunnel, continuously moving forward. After three days, a sh of white light appeared in the distance, and Ye Qingcheng reappeared in the world.


    The sky was clear, with gentle clouds. Ye Qingcheng stood atop a mountain peak, with a zing sun overhead.


    A golden sun? The world of the living?


    "Who goes there? How dare you trespass into the forbiddennd of the Realm of Longevity?" A group of cultivators, swords drawn, surrounded Ye Qingcheng.


    "The Realm of Longevity?" Ye Qingcheng muttered, looking at the group of cultivators.


    "State your name quickly! Who are you to trespass into the Realm of Longevity?" the leading cultivator demanded angrily.


    Looking at the group before him, Ye Qingcheng let out a bitter smile, a smile filled with pain.


    "Who are you? State your name!"


    Ye Qingcheng looked at them, shook his head, and said, "Inform Daoist Master Shen Ya that the sinner of the Realm of Longevity, Ye Qingcheng, seeks an audience!"


    "The sinner of the Realm of Longevity?"


    "Ye Qingcheng?"


    "Never heard of him! Ye Qingcheng? Who is Ye Qingcheng?"


    "Senior brother, let''s ask him more. Something seems off here."


    One Month Later, Within a Grand Hall of the Realm of Longevity


    Inside stood Daoist Master Shen Ya and a cleansed Ye Qingcheng.


    "Realm Lord!" Ye Qingcheng said with some shame.


    "Did you use the ''Life Protection Talisman'' from the Cursed Sorcerer to travel to the world of the living?" Daoist Master Shen Ya asked sternly.


    "Yes, this time it was entirely my fault that led to theplete destruction of the Immortal Realm!" Ye Qingcheng admitted, his face full of guilt.


    "Forget it, it wasn''t entirely your fault," Daoist Master Shen Ya shook his head.


    "But..."


    "The Ancestor has left your punishment to me. I say it''s over, and it''s over. From now on, you will redeem yourself through meritorious deeds," Daoist Master Shen Ya said calmly.


    "Yes!" Ye Qingcheng immediately responded.


    "Although you lost the Immortal Realm this time, your swordsmanship is still the highest in the Realm of Longevity. The Ancestor was very angry about the loss of the Immortal yer Sword, but I have decided to temporarily lend you the Absolute Immortal Sword," Daoist Master Shen Ya said.


    "Thank you, Realm Lord. I will not fail your trust," Ye Qingcheng said respectfully as he epted the Absolute Immortal Sword.


    Daoist Master Shen Ya nodded, recognizing Ye Qingcheng''s capabilities. Despite Ye Qingcheng''s grave mistakes, punishing him would be less beneficial than empowering him. The loss of the Immortal Realm in the underworld meant they needed more strength in the world of the living.


    "Realm Lord, how could Zhong Shan traverse between the two realms? And that beast, did it truly destroy the Immortal yer Sword?" Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "The Ancestor is never wrong. The Immortal yer Sword is no more, utterly gone. The Immortal Execution Sword Formation is now just a legend. That beast was indeed strange; even my Immortal Severing Flying de''s attached de was devoured twice," Daoist Master Shen Ya frowned.


    "Da Jin, Realm Lord, this Da Jin has opposed our Realm of Longevity multiple times," Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "Yes, the fall of the Immortal Realm was Zhong Shan''s ''grand gift'' to me," Daoist Master Shen Ya said coldly.


    "Last time?"


    "Yes, during the siege of Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Not long after that, he cut off one of our arms in the Realm of Longevity. This man is too ruthless, too vicious!" Daoist Master Shen Ya said with a chilling voice.


    "The people of the Da Jin Empire have gone to the underworld. Does that mean Lingxiao Heavenly Court is now vulnerable?" Ye Qingcheng pondered.


    "I don''t know. This matter is very peculiar. I''ve had people monitoring Lingxiao Heavenly Court continuously. Everything seems normal there, even the morning assemblies. I''ve sent someone to investigate further. We''ll wait for their return," Daoist Master Shen Ya said with a frown.


    "Understood!" Ye Qingcheng responded.


    Lingxiao Heavenly Court


    Zhong Shan faced the envoy from the Realm of Longevity.


    "Alright, you may leave now!" Zhong Shan said without showing any hospitality.


    "Thank you for your time, Emperor Zhong Shan!" The envoy bowed respectfully and exited, escorted by attendants through the South Heaven Gate.


    Once the envoy from the Realm of Longevity had left, Zhong Shan turned his gaze towards a seemingly empty corner of the hall. Though there was no one visible, Zhong Shan looked in that direction as if greeting an old friend.


    "Thank you for your help these past days, Huan Ji!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    Huan Ji, the woman from the Hundred Worlds Cave who could create celestial demon illusions, stepped forward.


    "It was nothing, just creating some illusions. I didn''t even need to use celestial demons. But now I realize that I might be able to create mid-level celestial demons!" Huan Ji said excitedly.


    "Your skill is impressive. The illusions were wless," Zhong Shan praised.


    "Thank you. I''m always ready to assist," Huan Ji said with a smile.


    "Your ability will be crucial in the days toe. We have many ns, and the enemy is cunning," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood, Emperor Zhong Shan. I will continue to improve and be ready for whatever you need," Huan Ji assured.


    Zhong Shan nodded, appreciating her dedication and the role she yed in his strategic ns. The Da Jin Empire''s reach was growing, and every ally counted in the grand design he envisioned for both the world of the living and the underworld.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up.


    "Uh, I still need a bit more time, but it should be soon!" Huan Ji smiled.


    "Keep up the good work!" Zhong Shan encouraged.


    "Of course, it won''t be long!" Huan Ji replied confidently.


    "Qianyou will soon enter the Hundred Worlds Cave, be careful!" Zhong Shan emphasized.


    "I know, she''s your empress after all. Don''t worry, the leading role will always be you!" Huan Jiughed.


    Two dayster, at the entrance of the Hundred Worlds Cave, Gu Qianyou was about to enter. Zhong Shan apanied her to the entrance.


    "Zhong Shan, what happened to the ancestral divine beast in the end?" Gu Qianyou asked regretfully.


    The ancestral divine beast was incredibly adorable, and during their time in Changjing in the underworld, Gu Qianyou always wanted to hold it.


    "It went to find Nian Youyou. Before the ck Sea duel, it came to me in a dream to say goodbye," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Oh, will it be in danger?" Gu Qianyou still worried.


    "Don''t worry. Even a Heaven Tier master couldn''t catch it easily. Otherwise, why would Ye Qingcheng have used the Myriad Phenomena Mirror Tower to try to capture it? It will be fine!"


    "But..." Gu Qianyou still seemed reluctant.


    "If there''s a chance in the future, I''ll find you a divine beast just as adorable," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Alright," Gu Qianyou blushed, her thoughtsid bare by Zhong Shan.


    In the Qin Empire, the holy capital of Xianyang! In the grand hall.


    Ying looked at his ministers as Li Si stepped forward.


    "Your Majesty, the Immortal yer Sword in the underworld was destroyed by Zhong Shan, which is why the old master of the Realm of Longevity was so enraged," Li Si reported.


    "Oh?"


    "The Da Jin Empire already has the ability to traverse both realms. In the underworld, there''s also a Da Jin Empire. Recently, the Da Jin Empire in the underworld, under Zhong Shan''s meticulous nning, aplished something earth-shattering, shaking the entire underworld!" Li Si said respectfully.


    "Oh?"


    "This all started with a duel at the ck Sea. Zhong Shan and Ye Qingcheng from the Immortal Realm agreed to a ck Sea duel, involving the Tian family. Each of the three forces had their own schemes, but ultimately, Da Jin emerged victorious," Li Si exined.


    Ying sat on his throne, listening quietly.


    "Zhong Shan destroyed the Immortal Realm, took the Immortal yer Sword, injured Kunpeng, and defeated the Tian family. He has be the most prominent figure in the underworld. The specific details are..." Li Si continued.


    Respectfully, Li Si detailed the events in the underworld to Ying, leaving nothing out. Li Si had remarkable abilities; while it was easy for those in the underworld to learn about the world of the living, it was difficult for the living to gather information about the underworld. Yet, Li Si knew everything, as if he had personally visited the underworld.


    "Well, well, a six-bird stone indeed. Zhong Shan is quite something!" L�� Buwei''s eyebrows furrowed slightly.


    "Your Majesty, the Da Jin Empire is growing stronger. Zhong Shan is truly extraordinary, just as you predicted!" Li Si nodded.


    "Your Majesty, how should we deal with this?" Li Si asked again.


    Ying tapped his fingers on the dragon throne, deep in thought. The ministers waited patiently, not daring to interrupt.


    After a moment, Ying''s mouth curled into a faint smile. "Interesting!"


    "Your Majesty?" Li Si was puzzled.


    "We''ll watch," Ying said calmly.


    Watching the tigers fight? The emperor intended to sit back and watch the struggle unfold?


    "Yes!" Li Si immediately responded.

 Chapter 756: The Snow-White Sword Master

    <h4>Chapter 756: The Snow-White Sword Master</h4>


    Two yearster, in Lingxiao Heavenly Court, within the Tianyuan Pavilion.


    Zhong Shan sat at his desk while Liu Wushuang, the Chief Commander of the Jinyiwei, stood respectfully before him.


    Zhong Shan reviewed a document Liu Wushuang had collected.


    "A duel at Meishan next year on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month?" Zhong Shan frowned as he read.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. The Supreme Leader of the Monkey n, Shen Qitian, has issued a challenge to Jian Ao, the Lord of the Netherworld Sky, for a duel at Meishan," Liu Wushuang reported respectfully.


    "Shen Qitian? Jian Ao?" Zhong Shan''s brows furrowed.


    "In the past, Jian Ao issued a ''Promation to the World,'' rallying the Netherworld Sky''s heroes to exterminate all monkeys on the Divine Continent. The Monkey n was nearly wiped out, and Shen Qitian never showed himself. Now, he has issued a battle post to Jian Ao, announcing it to the world. It seems very strange," Liu Wushuang exined.


    "Was it really Shen Qitian who issued the challenge?"


    "Yes!"


    Zhong Shan tapped the table lightly, deep in thought.


    "Your Majesty, why would Shen Qitian want to announce it to the world? What is his n?"


    "Announcing it to the world means he has a scheme. It''s like when I announced the ck Sea duel in the underworld. However, Shen Qitian''s purpose is different from mine. He''s afraid Jian Ao won''t show up!" Zhong Shan contemted.


    "A scheme? The Monkey n doesn''t have any other strong individuals, and Shen Qitian has no subordinates or influence. For him to challenge Jian Ao, he must have made some agreement with another power. In the world of the living, there aren''t many forces that would cooperate with Shen Qitian."


    "It''s the Realm of Longevity!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "The Realm of Longevity?" Liu Wushuang frowned.


    "Where is Meishan located?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s at the border between the Taishui Heavenly Empire and the Qin Empire. That ce is famous for its plum blossoms, covering an area of a million miles. It''s a beautiful and elegant location," Liu Wushuang exined.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Your Majesty, Hao Meili has left Lingxiao Heavenly Court and headed for the East Sea. I sent people to follow her, but she lost them shortly after," Liu Wushuang reported.


    "She''s going to the East Sea? Let her be. As long as she doesn''t go to the Qin Empire, no one can stop her!" Zhong Shan thought for a moment and then said.


    "Yes!"


    "Your Majesty, Jian Hong has returned and requests an audience outside the hall!" came a sudden voice from a guard outside the door.


    "Oh? Let him in!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" the guard replied.


    Liu Wushuang stepped aside, and soon Jian Hong entered the hall.


    Walking up to Zhong Shan''s desk, Jian Hong bowed slightly. "Your Majesty, my father has sent me to invite you. He asks that you be sure to arrive at Meishan on the fourteenth day of the first lunar month next year!"


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    "This is the letter my father asked me to deliver to you." Jian Hong handed over a white envelope.


    Zhong Shan opened the letter:


    I will soon depart and wish to meet with you. On the fourteenth day of the first lunar month next year, I await you at Meishan with wine.


    ��Jian Ao


    Zhong Shan''s eyebrows furrowed slightly. He had just mentioned Jian Ao, and now an invitation arrived?


    A duel on the fifteenth, and an invitation on the fourteenth? "Soon depart?" What does this mean? Could it be...?


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, then he looked at Jian Hong. "What is Jian Ao''s current cultivation level?"


    "My father is at the eleventh level of the Heaven Tier, about to reach the pinnacle of the Heaven Tier!" Jian Hong said proudly.


    Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Tianyuan Pavilion, Two Years Later


    "Eleven levels of the Heaven Tier?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrows twitched. This is Jian Ao? Such rapid improvement in cultivation was astonishing. Despite his own rapid progress to the third level of the Heaven Tier, Zhong Shan felt it paled inparison.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s frustration, Jian Hong quickly exined, "Your Majesty, my father is different from you. His memories from his past life have returned, and with them, his previous cultivation level. That''s why his progress has been so swift."


    Zhong Shan nodded, understanding.


    "Your Majesty, my father instructed me to return after delivering the invitation. Is there any message you''d like me to convey?" Jian Hong asked.


    "Tell Jian Ao that I will definitely be at Meishan on the fourteenth day of the first lunar month next year," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Understood!" Jian Hong smiled slightly.


    Qin Empire, Holy Capital of Xianyang, Imperial Court


    "Li Si!" Ying called out softly.


    "Present!" Li Si responded immediately.


    "The duel at Meishan is of great significance. I want you to go and observe Jian Ao''s true strength," Yingmanded.


    "I will obey!" Li Si replied respectfully.


    Taishui Heavenly Empire, Imperial Pce, Kong Lietian''s Study


    Standing before Kong Lietian were Daoist Master Shen Ya, Ye Qingcheng, and Shen Qitian.


    "The number one sword master in the underworld? Ye Qingcheng?" Kong Lietian looked at Ye Qingcheng.


    "So what?" Ye Qingcheng frowned slightly.


    "I heard that during a battle, Zhong Shan took the Immortal yer Sword from you?" Kong Lietian sneered.


    Ye Qingcheng''s eyes turned cold but he said nothing.


    "Kong Lietian, what are you trying to do?" Daoist Master Shen Ya said with some annoyance.


    "Nothing, justmenting the loss of the Immortal yer Sword. From now on, the Immortal Execution Sword Formation will be just a legend!" Kong Lietian shook his head.


    Kong Lietian''s regret was genuine; perhaps he had hoped to one day possess all four Immortal Execution Swords himself.


    "The Immortal Execution Sword Formation? Bing a legend? Who said that?" Daoist Master Shen Ya shook his head.


    "Oh?"


    "As long as the Immortal Execution Swords exist, the Immortal Execution Sword Formation will not be a legend!" Daoist Master Shen Ya dered.


    Hearing this, Kong Lietian frowned slightly, sensing something but knowing that Daoist Master Shen Ya wouldn''t borate further, he didn''t press the matter.


    "Alright, let''s get to the main point. I''ve already arranged for Jian Ao toe out. On the fifteenth day of the first lunar month next year, we will have the duel at Meishan. Everyone needs to cooperate well!" Shen Qitian said with a frown.


    "Yes, rest assured, on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month next year, I will personally lead troops to the Netherworld Sky! The Netherworld Sky within the Taishui Heavenly Empire''s territory is a hidden danger that must be eliminated!" Kong Lietian nodded.


    For some reason, Kong Lietian was much more serious towards Shen Qitian, as if Shen Qitian was more important than Daoist Master Shen Ya in his eyes.


    "Understood," Shen Qitian nodded.


    "And Jian Ao?" Kong Lietian asked.


    "Jian Ao? He won''t walk out of Meishan alive!" Daoist Master Shen Ya''s eyes shed coldly.


    "However, I still feel something is amiss," Ye Qingcheng pondered.


    "Oh?"


    "A duel at Meishan is not much different from the ck Sea duel in the underworld. I''m worried Jian Ao might see through it," Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "See through it? So what if he does? As long as he goes to Meishan for the duel, even if the ck Sea duel repeats itself, we will still be in an invincible position!" Kong Lietian said in a deep voice.


    "Alright," Ye Qingcheng nodded, but there was still a trace of concern in his eyes.


    Meishan Duel


    The duel at Meishan attracted countless strong individuals from all over the world, most of them rogue cultivators, eager to witness this pinnacle battle. Duels between Heaven Tier experts were rare, thest notable one being Daoist Master Shen Ya''s siege on Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    A sh between the master of a sacrednd and the supreme leader of the Monkey n was a fierce battle that piqued everyone''s curiosity and drew numerous experts to watch.


    At the beginning of the first lunar month, the surroundings of Meishan were already filled with countless experts. Snow was falling from the sky, and the plum blossoms were in full bloom.


    On the fourteenth day of the first lunar month, Zhong Shan also arrived at Meishan. This time, he was apanied only by Liu Wushuang.


    As Zhong Shan reached the outskirts of Meishan, light snow continued to fall, and numerous strong individuals gathered from all directions, but they were stopped by some sword-wielding, white-robed men outside Meishan.


    Zhong Shan and Liu Wushuangnded on the peak of a mountain, and three white-robed men immediately flew over. Each of them had an exceptionally cold and proud expression.


    "Disciples of the Netherworld Sky, pay respects to Emperor Zhong Shan!" the three men bowed in unison.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "The Lord is waiting for Emperor Zhong Shan in the ''Snow Plum Pavilion'' within Meishan. Please follow us," the leading man said.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Following the three men inward, they flew over countless mountain peaks, each covered with various blooming plum blossoms.


    "Your Majesty, all the plum blossoms are in full bloom?" Liu Wushuang whispered in surprise.


    "Hmm?"


    "There are over three hundred types of plum blossoms here, each with different blooming times. But today, all the plum blossoms are blooming simultaneously?" Liu Wushuang frowned.


    Indeed, looking around, there wasn''t a single bud; all the flowers were in full bloom, adorning the snowyndscape beautifully. A sense of serene beauty filled the heart.


    Zhong Shan nodded but did not respond to Liu Wushuang''s observation.


    Liu Wushuang respectfully flew behind Zhong Shan.


    Under the guidance of the three white-robed men, they soon arrived at arge valley. In the valley, a small stream flowed, fed by a mountain spring, and passed by a small pavilion.


    Outside the pavilion were some rare and beautiful plum blossoms. A few white-robed individuals, including Jian Hong, stood outside the pavilion.


    Inside the pavilion, a man knelt. His long hair flowed smoothly down his back, and he wore a spotless white robe, making him look incredibly clean. The man had his eyes closed, and before him was a set of cooking utensils with a porcin pot brewing wine.


    A plum blossom, swaying in the wind,nded gently on the man''s white-d shoulder, adding to the scene''s serene and elegant beauty. Just witnessing this scene felt like a spiritual elevation.


    The man''s kneeling presence exuded a single word: ''Serenity''! A profound inner peace, a transcendence from worldly concerns.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    While Liu Wushuang recognized the man as Jian Ao, Zhong Shan felt the terrifying nature of this ''serenity.''


    This was a state of mind that could change others'' emotions with its presence. Jian Ao''s mere kneeling there had such an infectious effect.


    How terrifying was this state? Jian Ao was at the eleventh level of the Heaven Tier, but Zhong Shan believed that even the celestial Sima Ce of the past wouldn''t be a match for Jian Ao.

 Chapter 757: Plum Blossoms Brewed Wine Discussing Heroes

    <h4>Chapter 757: Plum Blossoms Brewed Wine Discussing Heroes</h4>


    Zhong Shannded in front of the small pavilion in the valley.


    "Your Majesty!" Jian Hong bowed slightly to Zhong Shan. The disciples of the Netherworld Sky also bowed slightly but remained silent.


    Inside the pavilion, Jian Ao slowly opened his eyes.


    A gentle breeze blew from Jian Ao, sweeping the fallen plum blossom petals out of the pavilion.


    "Hong''er, take everyone out!" Jian Aomanded.


    "Yes, Father!" Jian Hong nodded and led the Netherworld Sky disciples away.


    "Wushuang!" Zhong Shan looked at Liu Wushuang.


    "Yes!" Liu Wushuang understood and also retreated.


    Watching everyone leave the valley, Zhong Shan turned to Jian Ao.


    "Please!"


    "Hm!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    He stepped into the pavilion and knelt on a mat opposite Jian Ao. Between them was a set of cooking utensils with a small stove heating some sake.


    Jian Ao extended his hand, and dozens of different types of plum blossoms flew from the distant grove. As they neared, he plucked a petal from each and gently ced them into the boiling sake.


    The plum blossom-infused sake emitted a fragrant aroma.


    "It''s been over a hundred years. Your cultivation has grown even deeper. Do you still hold onto your old ambition of ''defeating all the heroes in the world''?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    With a faint smile, Jian Ao replied, "Of course, I''ve never forgotten."


    "Oh?"


    "Thirty years ago, I had a significant revtion during a battle with the Qin Empire, which is why I invited you here," Jian Ao said.


    "A battle with the Qin Empire?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    A battle with the Qin Empire? And who? If Jian Ao spoke of this battle so solemnly, it must have been a fierce one. Why hadn''t Zhong Shan received any intelligence on it?


    "It was a secret battle, purely a battle of the mind, so it''s understandable that you didn''t hear about it," Jian Ao exined.


    "A secret battle? A battle of the mind?" Zhong Shan stared at Jian Ao.


    "Indeed, neither of us used our hands. We fought by manifesting a world with our thoughts and battling within that mental realm," Jian Ao said.


    "With whom?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Ying!"


    "Ying?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    "Yes, it was Ying. I lost, but his cultivation has long surpassed that of ordinary mortals. Even though I was defeated, I wasn''t disheartened. One day, I will surpass that realm," Jian Ao said confidently.


    "Ying''s cultivation has surpassed that of ordinary mortals?" Zhong Shan''s frown deepened.


    "Indeed, in this realm, he is the strongest person I''ve encountered," Jian Ao nodded.


    "And he let you leave?"


    "We agreed before the battle that it was merely a sparring match. Ying is domineering but keeps his word. After that battle, I haven''t touched my sword for thirty years," Jian Ao said.


    "Thirty years without touching your sword?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "That was the gain from that battle!" Jian Ao sighed.


    "It seems your swordsmanship has broken through once again?" Zhong Shan remarked.


    "Hm!" Jian Ao nodded.


    Jian Ao lifted the plum blossom-infused sake from the small stove, pouring a cup for Zhong Shan and himself.


    "In the past thirty years, I have forgotten my sword nine times, and my swordsmanship has surpassed what it once was. It''s a pity I cannot have a battle with you," Jian Ao shook his head.


    "With your natural talent, how can Ipare?" Zhong Shan shook his head and smiled.


    "No, if I say you can, then you definitely can. Your character determines your strength. There will be a battle between us eventually. There''s no need to hide it," Jian Ao asserted.


    Zhong Shan looked deeply at Jian Ao and finally nodded, "Please."


    Zhong Shan took a sip of the plum blossom sake. Jian Ao, pleased with Zhong Shan''s recognition, also took a sip with a smile.


    "Why do you value me, Zhong Shan, so much?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Some people can be recognized as dragons and phoenixes among men, heroic figures, at a nce. Among the powerful in the world, who do you think deserves to be called a hero?" Jian Ao asked.


    "Ying, eight thousand years ago, the number one person in the world, dominating the Divine Continent, unmatched. Eight thousand yearster, he returns to the world!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Ying is a hero. I cannot defeat him now, but one day, he will not be able to defeat me. Although that day is far off!" Jian Ao said with great confidence.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    "Who else?"


    "Daoist Master Shen Ya, the master of the Realm of Longevity, wields the Immortal Severing Flying de and has never been defeated in his life!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Daoist Master Shen Ya? Strong, indeed. Fierce, too. But not enough to be called a hero!" Jian Ao asserted.


    "Not enough to be called a hero?"


    "A hero holds the world''s leadership, sets the example for the world, is revered by the world, and is the foremost among the powerful. Daoist Master Shen Ya cannot be the spiritual leader of the masses!" Jian Ao exined.


    "Oh? What about Kong Lietian? A guest from the grand world, a descendant of saints, with various mysterious immortal techniques, dominating the west!"


    "A hero is not measured by mysterious techniques!" Jian Aoughed.


    "What do you say, then?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "You, Zhong Shan, deserve the title of a hero, and not just any hero, but the hero among heroes!" Jian Ao affirmed.


    "Me? You overpraise me! You, Jian Ao, are the true hero!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "I am, and so are you. We are different types of heroes. After our battle long ago, I saw this in you. I have always wanted to have another battle with you, but unfortunately, it has never happened. My cultivation has recovered extraordinarily because of my past life memories, so fighting now would not be a fair battle. Such a pity!" Jian Aomented.


    "Is that so? To be honest, having a battle with you is also Zhong Shan''s wish!" Zhong Shan said seriously.


    This was the truth from Zhong Shan''s heart. He was indeed a warrior at heart. Men find spiritual satisfaction in fierce battles, and Zhong Shan was no exception. However, due to hisrger goals, he had buried this fighting spirit deep within. But when the time came to fight, this spirit was never suppressed.


    "Good, I''ve been waiting for you to say that. In my several lifetimes, you are the second person I have truly wanted to fight," Jian Ao said with a long sigh of relief.


    He poured another cup of plum blossom sake for both Zhong Shan and himself.


    "The second? Who was the first? Ying?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No, he has already left this small world. It was someone I knew in my past life, a peerless hero. I faced the wall and prepared for battle for a hundred years to fight him. But when the decisive day came, I discovered a w in my swordsmanship. Since then, I haven''t had the chance to fight him. He entered the grand world, and only when I reach the grand world can we continue our battle," Jian Ao sighed.


    "Those who cultivate virtue are always more carefree than those of us who seek fame," Zhong Shan shook his head wistfully.


    "Each has their merits; it''s just a difference in paths," Jian Ao said.


    "Indeed, different paths," Zhong Shan agreed with a smile.


    "So, we are destined to have our duel in the grand world?" Jian Ao asked.


    "Agreed."


    "This duel at Meishan, how do you see it?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "The duel at Meishan is to settle some matters and primarily to have this discussion on heroes with you and leave some instructions," Jian Ao said.


    "Leave some instructions? Are you about to ascend?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, the situation in Shenzhou is bing clearer, and the opening of the heavens is inevitable. The world is about to be unified, and my Netherworld Sky will no longer exist in this world. So I n to take the disciples of the Netherworld Sky and break through the void to ascend to the grand world," Jian Ao said.


    "The disciples of the Netherworld Sky? Ascending together?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    "The location of the Netherworld Sky might already have visitors, just like during your ck Sea duel, someone went straight to the Netherworld Sky," Jian Ao smiled.


    "Oh? You knew?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised. Even matters in the underworld were known to Jian Ao?


    "I have activated the Netherworld Sky. When we ascend to the grand world, the disciples only need to stay inside, and I can take them out!" Jian Ao confirmed.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Although Jian Ao inherited the title of Lord of the Netherworld Sky from Nangong Sheng, Jian Ao had been the Lord of the Netherworld Sky in his previous life, making him more familiar with the Netherworld Sky than Nangong Sheng.


    "And your cultivation?"


    "On the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, which is tomorrow, during the full moon, I will reach the peak of mortal cultivation and break through the void," Jian Ao said confidently.


    "Then congrattions in advance!"


    "Meeting you before my ascension is one of life''s great pleasures. I know you have ambitions topete for the world, so I give you this as my parting gift," Jian Ao said.


    Saying this, Jian Ao took out a scroll and ced it on the table before Zhong Shan.


    The scroll was made with ten-thousand-year-old purple sandalwood and bound with purple gold cloud silk, looking very ancient.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "The method to create the Taiji Diagram," Jian Ao said.


    "Oh?"


    "The Taiji Diagram''s method was lost in my previous life. I rediscovered it in a manuscript when I activated the Netherworld Sky," Jian Ao exined.


    "The Taiji Diagram? The method of refining it?" Zhong Shan frowned at Jian Ao.


    "When you obtained that Taiji Diagram in the past, you must have known its wonders. The Taiji Diagram was once the supreme treasure of the Taishang Saint in the grand world. After the Taishang Saint fell, the Taiji Diagram exploded and scattered. One fragment fell into this small world and was acquired by the first Lord of the Netherworld Sky, whoprehended the method of refining the Taiji Diagram. This is a saint''s treasure, left to you to deal with the world of Shenzhou," Jian Ao said.


    "The refining method of a saint''s treasure? I cannot ept it without merit," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "No, you have merit. Jian Hong was able to return all because of you. Jian Hong is worth a hundred times more to me than the method of refining the Taiji Diagram. Because you revived Jian Hong, you deserve this method. Moreover, this is only a handwritten copy," Jian Ao said.


    After deeply looking at Jian Ao, Zhong Shan nodded, "Then I will ept it with gratitude."


    Jian Ao nodded, and Zhong Shan did not open it but put it away.


    "Before our duel, staying alive is enough!" Jian Ao smiled.


    "Alright, I definitely will. Cheers!" Zhong Shan raised his plum blossom sake with a smile.


    "Cheers!"


    Although Zhong Shan and Jian Ao had only met a few times, they seemed like old friends with a deep connection. They talked for a day and a night.


    The Next Day


    Under the watchful eyes of countless experts, four figures suddenly flew from the southwest direction.


    Daoist Master Shen Ya, Ye Qingcheng, Shen Qitian, and Toad Lai!


    On the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, the duel at Meishan began!

 Chapter 758: Sword Duel

    <h4>Chapter 758: Sword Duel</h4>


    The outskirts of Meishan were filled with scattered cultivators from Shenzhou. The once numerous factions had mostly consolidated into the three great dynasties, leaving mainly rogue cultivators present.


    Li Si stood in a corner, observing under Ying''s orders.


    Jian Ao and Zhong Shan conversed in the Snow Plum Pavilion. Meanwhile, Daoist Master Shen Ya, Ye Qingcheng, Shen Qitian, and Toad Lainded on a snowy mountain peak.


    "They''re here: Daoist Master Shen Ya, Shen Qitian, and Toad Lai. Who''s thest one?"


    "I don''t know, probably another Daoist Master from the Realm of Longevity!"


    "Oh? How do you know?"


    "He''s carrying the Absolute Immortal Sword. I saw it at Lingxiao Heavenly Court with my own eyes!"


    "The Absolute Immortal Sword?"


    "Why is Shen Qitian with people from the Realm of Longevity?"


    "Could this be a conspiracy against Jian Ao?"


    ...


    The crowd murmured among themselves. The four formidable figures stood on a distant snowy mountain peak, observing the Snow Plum Pavilion in the central valley.


    Seeing Zhong Shan in the pavilion, their pupils contracted, eyes filled with hostility.


    Ye Qingcheng stared at Zhong Shan with intense hatred. It was Zhong Shan who caused the fall of the Immortal Realm and annihted the Immortal yer Sword in the ck Sea.


    Shen Qitian was an old rival of Zhong Shan. Although Zhong Shan never considered him worthy of being an opponent, Shen Qitian thought otherwise. Besides their old enmities from the Great Luo Heavenly Empire, Zhong Shan''s beast had swallowed Shen Qitian''s Purple Gold Dragon Staff, a relic from his past life.


    Toad Lai had few interactions with Zhong Shan, but theirst encounter at Lingxiao Heavenly Court resulted in a crushing defeat. Moreover, Toad Lai''s long-cherished ve, Qing Hui, was imprisoned by Zhong Shan, deepening his enmity.


    As for Daoist Master Shen Ya, Zhong Shan was the Realm of Longevity''s arch-enemy from a strategic perspective.


    Each of these four powerful figures wanted nothing more than to tear Zhong Shan to pieces. But for now, they suppressed their fury, as their primary target was someone else��Jian Ao, the Lord of the Netherworld Sky.


    The Netherworld Sky, one of the four great sacrednds with a history spanning thousands of years, was an enigma. Despite its ancient heritage, it had only one leader per generation. Yet, each leader inevitably rose to the pinnacle of Shenzhou''s power.


    This consistent supremacy puzzled many, but Daoist Master Shen Ya and hispanions knew part of the reason: the Netherworld Sky''s ruthlessness.


    The Netherworld Sky was a ce where people were unafraid of death. Its inhabitants were often brutally savage, not only to outsiders but also to their own. The policy of survival of the fittest was ingrained, even in selecting the leader.


    Nangong Sheng, the previous lord, selected Jian Ao by setting a brutal battlefield filled with countless demons and magic beasts. The goal was sheer ughter��only the strongest, the one who survived the bloodshed, could be the lord.


    The Duel Begins


    As the fifteenth day of the first lunar month dawned, countless experts surrounded the snowy mountains of Meishan, eagerly awaiting the duel.


    Daoist Master Shen Ya, Ye Qingcheng, Shen Qitian, and Toad Lai stood on the snowy peak, observing the central valley''s Snow Plum Pavilion.


    In the pavilion, Zhong Shan and Jian Ao, having conversed for an entire day and night, were ready.


    Jian Ao took a deep breath, his eyes sharp as swords. "Zhong Shan, it''s time."


    Zhong Shan nodded, standing up. "Let''s end this."


    The two stepped out of the pavilion, facing each other amidst the blooming plum blossoms. The air was filled with a tense silence, the world holding its breath for the impending sh.


    From the snowy peak, Daoist Master Shen Ya and hispanions watched intently, their presence a looming threat, ready to intervene as the duelmenced.


    The gathered cultivators held their breaths, knowing they were about to witness a battle of unparalleled magnitude. The stage was set, and the duel at Meishan began.


    The policy of the Netherworld Sky was simple: many strong contenders would die, leaving only the strongest. This method had always intrigued the Realm of Longevity, but the cost was too high. Thus, even though the policy of the Netherworld Sky was open, no other sacrednd dared to imitate it. This brutal approach allowed the Netherworld Sky to produce exceptionally formidable individuals, oftenbeled as demonic by the world.


    Only a ce like this could cultivate a multitude of ruthless warriors.


    Jian Ao!


    The four formidable figures looked at Jian Ao, who stood amidst the snow, exuding a serene aura.


    Jian Ao showed no signs of violent intent. Each generation of the Netherworld Sky''s lords seemed to undergo this transformation: before bing the lord, they were filled with murderous intent, but soon after assuming the title, they became calm and restrained.


    Nangong Sheng was like this in the past, and now, so was Jian Ao.


    "Daoist Master Shen Ya? Ye Qingcheng? It seems theye with ill intentions!" Zhong Shan frowned.


    With a faint smile, Jian Ao said, "And what if they do?"


    "Do you need me to hold anyone off for you?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No need, today you just watch," Jian Ao said with supreme confidence.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The two stood up and walked out of the pavilion.


    "Jian Ao! You ughtered countless monkeys and apes of my n. Today is your death day!" Shen Qitian shouted from a distance.


    Jian Ao nced at the four opponents, lingering briefly on Ye Qingcheng. He could see the unique aura emanating from the Absolute Immortal Sword on Ye Qingcheng''s back, a sword intent so powerful it pierced the sky.


    "Hmm!"


    The Absolute Immortal Sword let out a soft hum.


    "Hmm~~~!"


    Around them, the swords of the gathered spectators began to tremble, as if they were paying homage to the Absolute Immortal Sword.


    Many onlookers clutched their swords in shock, trying to stop them from shaking.


    Before Jian Ao, a gentle breeze arose, which Zhong Shan, standing nearby, recognized as numerous tiny sword auras.


    The Absolute Immortal Sword was challenging Jian Ao.


    "It truly is a peerless sword!" Jian Ao took a deep breath and nodded.


    After giving the Absolute Immortal Sword a long look, Jian Ao turned his gaze to Daoist Master Shen Ya, who still carried his giant gourd, the Immortal Severing Gourd, now adorned with tiny colorful spots.


    Finally, Jian Ao looked at Shen Qitian.


    Seeing Shen Qitian, Jian Ao smiled faintly and waved his hand. A red-d woman flew over from not far away.


    "Shen Qitian, do you still remember who I am?" the red-d woman, Jian Hong, called out excitedly.


    Once a relentless pursuer of Shen Qitian, Jian Hong now felt emboldened with her father''s support, calling out to Shen Qitian with a newfound arrogance.


    "Jian Hong?" Shen Qitian''s pupils contracted.


    His eyes filled with anger. It seemed his misfortunes began after encountering Jian Hong. Relentlessly pursued, he had be a solitary figure.


    "Jian Hong, go ahead," Jian Ao instructed.


    "Yes!" Jian Hong responded enthusiastically, drawing a ck sword.


    Jian Hong soared into the sky, her gaze locked onto Shen Qitian from a distance.


    "Shen Qitian,e and meet your death!" Jian Hong''s loud voice echoed.


    Her deration stunned everyone. Who was this woman suddenly challenging Shen Qitian?


    "That''s Jian Hong, the Pce Master of the Sword God Pce. Wasn''t she rumored to be killed by Shen Qitian?"


    "I heard she''s Jian Ao''s daughter?"


    "She''s challenging Shen Qitian, a Heaven Tier expert? Is this a joke?"


    ...


    People were bewildered by Jian Hong''s audacity. Her resurrection was already unbelievable, and now she dared to provoke Shen Qitian?


    From a distance, the four formidable figures frowned.


    Daoist Master Shen Ya looked towards Jian Ao, "Jian Ao, are you sure you want your daughter to fight? Aren''t you going to intervene?"


    "This is a family matter. It doesn''t concern you," Jian Ao replied calmly.


    "As a mediator, it certainly concerns me," Daoist Master Shen Ya said sternly.


    "Did I ask you to mediate?" Jian Ao''s tone showed a hint of impatience.


    Daoist Master Shen Ya raised an eyebrow but said no more.


    Shen Qitian looked at Jian Ao and then at Jian Hong in the sky, sneering, "If you want to die, don''t me me!"


    Shen Qitian stepped forward.


    Jian Hong flew towards Shen Qitian, her ck sword emitting a massive sword aura towards him.


    Jian Hong was only at the Emperor Tier. No matter how fierce, Shen Qitian didn''t fear her. Shen Qitian had regained his past life strength, reaching the tenth level of the Heaven Tier. How could he fear an Emperor Tier cultivator?


    The battle began.


    All the onlookers held their breath.


    Jian Hong''s initial strike didn''t release much sword aura, just one, but it expanded a hundredfold as it shot towards Shen Qitian.


    "What a sword technique!" Ye Qingcheng praised from afar.


    Next to Zhong Shan, Jian Ao whispered, "Erge!"


    "Boom!"


    The sword aura Jian Hong released suddenly expanded ten thousand times!


    Like a towering mountain crashing towards Shen Qitian, the transformation was too fast. The initial arrow-like aura had now be a colossal mountain. How could an arrowpare to a mountain?


    The spectators'' mouths dropped open in shock, their eyes wide.


    Shen Qitian, who had been ready to shatter the sword aura with a palm strike, broke into a cold sweat and quickly dodged.


    As Shen Qitian dodged, the enormous sword aura shot towards Daoist Master Shen Ya.


    The three formidable figures quickly jumped aside.


    "Boom!"


    The mountain they had been standing on exploded into fragments.


    An overwhelming sword aura��could this be from an Emperor Tier cultivator?


    Shen Qitian looked uncertain, while Jian Hong nced at Jian Ao below.


    Seeing her father''s smile, Jian Hong''s face flushed with excitement.


    Her eyes fixed, Jian Hong swung her ck sword at Shen Qitian again. Though not as skilled as Jian Ao, Jian Hong was a master of the sword. Her powerful sword aura filled the sky, surrounding her body with countless sword auras.


    These auras served both to attack and as a protective barrier. While sword cultivators were fast, even faster opponents existed. Yet, as long as an opponent touched the surrounding sword auras, Jian Hong could react by sensing them, striking faster than she could by sight alone.


    Relentless, Jian Hong continued her assault, each main strike suddenly expanding ten thousand times. The overwhelming sword technique shook the surrounding space violently.

 Chapter 759: The Mighty Jian Ao

    <h4>Chapter 759: The Mighty Jian Ao</h4>


    Jian Hong''s sword aura filled the sky, battling Shen Qitian with unparalleled intensity. Under Jian Ao''s subtle guidance, Jian Hong''s main killing sword aura periodically magnified ten thousand times, leaving the surrounding rogue cultivators in awe.


    This sudden magnification was extremely peculiar, catching Shen Qitian off guard. Initially, he did not engage fully, instead searching for a fatal w in Jian Hong''s technique.


    "sh!"


    A sword aura grazed Shen Qitian''s sleeve, slicing off a piece of fabric.


    Surprised, Shen Qitian nced at Jian Hong in the distance. His anger red as he realized his sleeve had been cut. With a swift motion, he retrieved a staff. The Purple Gold Dragon Staff? It seemed Shen Qitian had repaired it.


    At this moment, another primary sword aura from Jian Hong, amplified ten thousand times by Jian Ao, surged towards Shen Qitian.


    "Roar!"


    With a thunderous shout, Shen Qitian swung his staff at the enormous sword aura.


    "Boom!"


    The sword aura shattered, and Shen Qitian charged towards Jian Hong with incredible speed. Despite being a sword cultivator, Jian Hong''s speed could not match that of a Heaven Tier expert.


    Jian Hong retreated rapidly as Shen Qitian closed the distance.


    Suddenly, Jian Ao''s robes fluttered without wind, and his hair gently swayed as if blown by a breeze. High above, the clouds dispersed, and over a hundred massive sword auras descended from the sky.


    "Heaven''s Sword?" Ye Qingcheng eximed in surprise from afar.


    Each of these sword auras wasrger than the one Jian Hong had just unleashed. Their edges seemed to cut through space itself, creating tiny ck lines.


    The terrifying sword auras cascaded towards Shen Qitian like a celestial waterfall.


    Shen Qitian''s hairs stood on end. He swung the Purple Gold Dragon Staff to meet the oing sword auras.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The hundred sword auras bombarded Shen Qitian, shaking the surrounding space and causing nearby snow peaks to copse.


    Shen Qitian became the epicenter of this intense assault. The space around him vibrated wildly, with the sword aura tips creating small ck holes.


    "Boom!"


    After the massive sword aura barrage, the scene returned to calm. The onlookers could finally see the aftermath.


    Shen Qitian''s clothes were tattered, his hair disheveled, and he stood on the ground in a state of utter disarray, looking around in shock.


    Jian Hong had also stopped, and beside her now stood Jian Ao.


    Somehow, Jian Ao had vanished from the Snow Plum Pavilion and appeared beside Jian Hong.


    "Girl, you''ve had your turn. Go rest now; I''ll handle this," Jian Ao said.


    Jian Hong seemed to want to say something, but an immense force swiftly sent her back to the Snow Plum Pavilion.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s stern expression, Jian Hong subdued her defiant attitude and stood behind Zhong Shan with a hint of reluctance.


    Jian Ao looked down at Shen Qitian, while Ye Qingcheng, Daoist Master Shen Ya, and Toad Lai quickly surrounded them.


    "Jian Ao, isn''t it unfair for you and your daughter to both fight Shen Qitian?" Toad Lai said.


    Fairness? It was clear to everyone that the previous fight was just a warm-up for Jian Hong. Now that Jian Ao was stepping in, the real battle was about to begin.


    "Heaven''s Sword? You actuallyprehended Heaven''s Sword?" Ye Qingcheng said, astonished.


    Jian Ao stood calmly, his presence formidable. The other three strong figures circled, ready to engage.


    "Heaven''s Sword is just the beginning," Jian Ao replied, his voice steady.


    The surrounding atmosphere grew tense as the onlookers prepared themselves for a sh of unprecedented scale. The battle was far from over, and with Jian Ao now directly involved, the stakes had risen even higher.


    "Ye Qingcheng? The number one sword master in the Underworld?" Jian Ao nced at Ye Qingcheng indifferently.


    Despite facing the so-called number one sword master, Jian Ao showed no sign of apprehension, as if Ye Qingcheng didn''t even register in his eyes.


    "Indeed," Ye Qingcheng responded sternly.


    Jian Ao nodded and turned his gaze back to the disheveled Shen Qitian.


    "Boom!"


    Hundreds of colossal sword auras suddenly erupted from the ground, targeting Shen Qitian from all directions.


    Shen Qitian''s expression changed dramatically. With a swift motion of his Purple Gold Dragon Staff, he leaped upward to avoid the attack.


    The overwhelming sword auras seemed to follow Jian Ao''s will, emerging from all directions.


    "sh!"


    "Boom!"


    In an instant, Ye Qingcheng drew the Absolute Immortal Sword. The world seemed to copse as a massive ck hole enveloped the area, rescuing Shen Qitian from imminent danger.


    "Spare him if you can. Jian Ao, must you be so ruthless?" Daoist Master Shen Ya asked sternly.


    "Today, Shen Qitian must die. As for you, there''s no need for pretenses. If you seek my life,e at me together. Let me see just how formidable you truly are, Daoist Master Shen Ya!" Jian Ao dered.


    With a simple wave, the surrounding heavens and earth were suddenly filled with endless sword auras. Jian Ao seemed to be the source of these terrifying auras, which swarmed towards Shen Qitian like a gue of locusts.


    Ye Qingcheng, wielding the Absolute Immortal Sword, shed out, creating a vast ck hole. The sword aura from the Absolute Immortal Sword shot directly at Jian Ao.


    Seeing the ck sword aura, Jian Ao''s eyes narrowed. Regardless of how he viewed Ye Qingcheng, the Absolute Immortal Sword had reigned over Shenzhou for tens of thousands of years, always among the top eighteen treasures of Shenzhou, never to be underestimated.


    Those who underestimated the Four Immortal Swords met dire ends.


    Suddenly, an infinite amount of sword aura gathered from all directions, forming a gigantic, multicolored sword aura. This sword aura, powerful enough to tear through space, shed with the Absolute Immortal Sword.


    "Boom!"


    The violent collision shattered the space around them.


    Ye Qingcheng, holding the Absolute Immortal Sword, charged into the fray, followed closely by Jian Ao. Both had reached the pinnacle where anything could be an ultimate weapon. One was the top sword master of the Underworld, and the other was the top sword master of the Living World. Their sh was a battle of titans.


    Shen Qitian, caught in the ck hole, remained Jian Ao''s primary target, with Ye Qingcheng assisting Shen Qitian.


    The three engaged in a fierce battle while Daoist Master Shen Ya and Toad Lai waited at a distance.


    Inside the ck hole, spiritual senses couldn''t prate, and nothing could be seen. Only when the battle ceased would the oue be revealed.


    The enormous ck hole shifted wildly, showing the intense fight within. The violent spatial fluctuations turned Meishan into ruins, except for the valley where Zhong Shan stood. With great strength, Zhong Shan stabilized the area, maintaining the spatial equilibrium.


    Onlookers kept retreating, awed by Jian Ao''s strength. Fighting two powerful opponents and still undefeated?


    "Your Majesty, will my father be alright?" Jian Hong asked worriedly.


    "Rest assured, Ye Qingcheng may be strong, but his swordsmanship hasn''t reached the realm of returning to the basics. Moreover, his reputation as the number one sword master in the Underworld is mainly due to the Immortal yer Sword. Though he now wields the Absolute Immortal Sword, his understanding of the sword doesn''t match Jian Ao''s," Zhong Shan replied confidently.


    "Bang!"


    A battered figure emerged from the ck hole, revealing Shen Qitian, his clothes torn, body covered in wounds, and hair disheveled. The once dignified Heaven Tier expert now wore an expression of sheer terror.


    As the ck hole gradually dissipated, the two remaining figures came into view. Ye Qingcheng''s clothes were tattered in several ces, and he clutched the Absolute Immortal Sword, his eyes reflecting astonishment.


    Opposite him stood Jian Ao, his white robes immacte, floating effortlessly. Despite the two-on-one battle, Jian Ao had emerged victorious, unscathed.


    Everyone watched in shock��was Jian Ao truly this powerful?


    Jian Ao gazed at Ye Qingcheng with indifference. "What you know, I know. What I know, you don''t. Relying solely on the Absolute Immortal Sword, a weapon beyond your level, you will never surpass me."


    Ye Qingcheng clenched the Absolute Immortal Sword, his hands trembling with rage.


    Suddenly, Jian Ao extended his hand towards Shen Qitian, his index and middle fingers joined, pointing directly at him.


    "Whoosh!"


    A multicolored sword aura shot from Jian Ao''s fingertips, extending thousands of feet in an instant, aiming straight for Shen Qitian.


    In a panic, Shen Qitian raised the Purple Gold Dragon Staff.


    "Boom!"


    The overpowering sword aura sliced the staff in half, and under the horrified gazes of the onlookers, it continued towards Shen Qitian''s forehead.


    "Return, my treasure!"


    "ng!"


    With a shout from Daoist Master Shen Ya, a multicolored light shed in front of Shen Qitian, causing him to retreat a hundred feet. Jian Ao''s sword aura shattered upon impact, leaving a small ck hole where Shen Qitian had stood.


    The Immortal Severing Flying de!


    At the critical moment, Daoist Master Shen Ya had saved Shen Qitian.


    Jian Ao turned his gaze to Daoist Master Shen Ya.


    "You can''t stop me," Jian Ao said with a cold smile.


    He extended both hands, index and middle fingers joined, and from each hand emerged a powerful sword aura, like two divine weapons extending from Jian Ao''s hands, leaving trails of shattered space in their wake.


    "Enough dying. Let''s finish this!" Daoist Master Shen Yamanded.


    "Yes!" came the immediate response.


    Ye Qingcheng, wielding the Absolute Immortal Sword, shed through space, creating a ck void as he charged at Jian Ao. Toad Lai brandished a forked weapon and also rushed at Jian Ao. Daoist Master Shen Ya stepped forward with determination.


    "Hah!"


    With a clear shout, Jian Ao unleashed an immense burst of sword aura, shattering the surrounding space.


    The four-on-one battle began with a tremendous sh, creating another massive ck hole in the sky. The intensity of the fight surpassed the previous encounter, showcasing Jian Ao''s full strength. Win or lose, Jian Ao''s prowess would be legendary in Shenzhou.


    Spectators watched in awe, while disciples of the Netherworld Sky felt a surge of excitement.


    In the small valley, Jian Hong''s face was filled with worry, while Zhong Shan observed with a stern expression. Suddenly, another figure appeared in the valley��Li Si, the Prime Minister of the Great Qin Empire.


    Li Si, having appeared unnoticed, nodded slightly to Zhong Shan.


    "Prime Minister Li Si, what brings you here?" Zhong Shan asked, his voice calm yet curious.


    "The Emperor sent me to observe this battle," Li Si replied, his gaze fixed on the intense sh above.


    Zhong Shan nodded, understanding the importance of the fight. The oue would have significant implications for the bnce of power in Shenzhou.


    As the battle raged on, Jian Ao''s skill and strength were on full disy. Despite being outnumbered, he maintained a dominant position, his sword aura controlling the battlefield.


    The spectators held their breath, knowing they were witnessing a historic event. The oue would shape the future of Shenzhou, and Jian Ao''s name would be remembered for generations.

 Chapter 760: Li Si鈥檚 Gift

    <h4>Chapter 760: Li Si''s Gift</h4>


    In the small valley where Zhong Shan stood, a figure suddenly appeared��Li Si from the Great Qin Dynasty!


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly as he looked at the unexpected guest.


    "Li Si greets Emperor Zhong Shan!" Li Si said with a smile.


    "Greetings, Prime Minister Li Si!" Zhong Shan nodded in return.


    "It seems Emperor Zhong Shan shares a profound friendship with Sword Sovereign Tian?" Li Si smiled again.


    "Indeed, we are quite close. May I ask what brings Prime Minister Li here?" Zhong Shan inquired, his gaze fixed on Li Si.


    "Hmm, I came unannounced mainly because I''ve heard some news about your Great Zheng Dynasty recently and wanted to verify it," Li Si exined.


    "Oh?"


    "I''ve heard that the Great Zheng Dynasty is about to ascend to the status of a Celestial Dynasty. Is this true?" Li Si asked directly.


    Zhong Shan looked at Li Si, fell silent for a moment, and finally nodded, "Yes, the Great Zheng Dynasty is preparing to take the next step."


    "It was expected. The ascension of the Great Zheng Dynasty to a Celestial Dynasty is just a matter of time. It''s an honor to get confirmation from you, Emperor Zhong Shan," Li Si remarked.


    "Prime Minister Li tters me. The Great Qin has been dominating the Divine Land for eighty thousand years. Compared to the Great Qin, my Great Zheng is still far behind," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Regardless, the Great Zheng has upied thirty percent of the Divine Land. Since ancient times, no Empire has ever held such a vast territory. You are the first, and the Great Zheng is the first Empire to achieve this. The title of the greatest Empire of all time is well-deserved!" Li Si praised.


    "It was a necessity given the circumstances. I believe the Great Qin was no weaker when it was an Empire," Zhong Shan responded modestly.


    Li Si smiled faintly, not contradicting Zhong Shan.


    "Since the Great Zheng is about to ascend to a Celestial Dynasty, I, on behalf of the Great Qin, would like to present a gift in advance," Li Si said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    "You will see shortly," Li Si assured.


    See shortly? Zhong Shan was puzzled. Could it be that the gift was not with Li Si but would appearter?


    Zhong Shan knew he had little interaction with the Great Qin. An early gift? There might be more to this than meets the eye.


    Above the high sky, the ck hole fluctuated, sometimes expanding, sometimes contracting. Intense sword energy emanated from within, causing terrifying spatial tremors that forced the onlookers to retreat further and further.


    The battlested from dawn until dusk. As the sun set, the trembling space gradually calmed, and the ck hole slowly restored itself.


    A fierce battle had finallye to a temporary halt.


    In the high sky, four powerful figures surrounded Sword Sovereign Jian Ao.


    Jian Ao''s hair was slightly disheveled, with some minor tears at the edges of his clothes. The same was true for his opponent, the Raven Dao Lord, whose clothes were also torn, but like Jian Ao, he was unharmed. The Raven Dao Lord frowned deeply as he looked at Jian Ao.


    A blood line slowly trickled down from Ye Qingcheng''s right arm to the Absolute Immortal Sword in his hand. Ye Qingcheng''s right arm was injured. Frowning, Ye Qingcheng switched the Absolute Immortal Sword to his left hand.


    As for the toad-like character, Gu, he had no injuries, looking perfectly fine but filled with frustration. Perhaps he hadn''t even participated in the battle for the past few hours and could only stand on the outskirts of the battlefield, watching.


    The one most seriously injured was Shen Qitian. Shen Qitian was horrified, his body covered in wounds, with his legs particrly bloody and mangled, exposing the bones.


    Jian Ao alone had managed to hold off four powerful opponents!


    Everyone held their breath.


    "Jian Ao, you have the strength to contend with me, but you should know that if this continues, you will inevitably lose. My Immortal-ying Gourd can be unsealed a second time, and then you will no longer be my match. Join my Changsheng Realm, and I will grant you the position of Dao Lord and give you control of the Immortal-ying Sword!" the Raven Dao Lord said solemnly.


    Jian Ao lifted his head slightly, his previously disheveled hair once again falling smoothly behind him. Extending his fingers, two streams of sword energy shot out from both hands. At the same time, an endless surge of sword energy erupted from beneath his feet.


    "Dao Lord? Hahaha, Raven Dao Lord, is that all you''ve got? Don''t make me look down on you any further!" Jian Aoughed heartily.


    The immense sword energy once again tore through space, and the five powerful figures resumed their battle, creating another massive ck hole in the high sky.


    The fleeting conversation was over, and the battle continued!


    Everyone sharpened their gaze, waiting for the oue.


    "Your Majesty, will my father be in danger? Should we...?" Jian Hong asked worriedly, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Jian Ao said he doesn''t need our help. Besides, haven''t you noticed? The moon has already begun to rise," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    The moon? Li Si, standing nearby, looked at Zhong Shan with slight curiosity.


    Jian Hong nced at the rising full moon in the distance, a sh of joy in her eyes, and then nodded, "I forgot!"


    "Concern leads to confusion. On a full moon night, Jian Ao''s swordsmanship reaches the Void Grand Perfection," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Yes!"


    The moon climbed higher and higher. When the full moon hung high in the sky, illuminating everything with its silver light, a strange scene unfolded.


    From the moon, endless silver light poured down, as if a vast amount of lunar essence was being concentrated near Meishan.


    Especially around the ck hole in the high sky.


    The ck hole where the five powerful figures fought seemed like a vortex of lunar essence, drawing in an ever-increasing amount of moonlight.


    Everyone watched in astonishment. What was happening?


    "Jian Ao''s swordsmanship has reached the level of the ''Heart of Lunar Sword''?" Li Si frowned in amazement.


    In the high sky, four figures suddenly flew out from the ck hole: the Raven Dao Lord, Ye Qingcheng, Shen Qitian, and the toad-like character Gu. The ck hole slowly disappeared.


    Gradually, everyone could see everything above once more.


    Jian Ao was gone, reced by a mass of silver light.


    "Swish!"


    From the bottom of the light mass, a streak of sword energy appeared.


    "Swish, swish, swish..."


    More and more sword energy emerged from all sides of the silver light, not shooting outward but slowly enveloping the silver light, bing denser and more concentrated.


    The sword energy grewrger andrger, forming a giant bud-like sword sphere in the high sky.


    A powerful aura radiated from the high sky, pressing down in all directions. Almost everyone suddenly felt a tightening in their hearts, a sense of kneeling and worshipping.


    It was a lotus bud, but its petals were made of sword energy.


    "Crack, crack, crack..."


    After an incense stick''s worth of time, as everyone swallowed nervously, the enormous bud, tens of thousands of zhang in size, slowly began to open.


    It opened wider and wider, revealing a ten-thousand-zhang wide sword lotus blossoming before everyone''s eyes.


    The lotus petals of the sword lotus emitted endless sword energy in all directions. The vast and boundless sword energy filled the void for millions of miles, sharp and unstoppable.


    Sword energy enveloped everything.


    At the center of the sword lotus, Jian Ao sat cross-legged on the lotus tform. The silver light around him gradually faded, revealing a sword-shaped mark at the center of his forehead. As he opened his eyes, a torrent of majestic sword intent burst forth, scattering the surrounding sword energy in all directions.


    Everyone stared at Jian Ao in shock.


    "Congrattions, Lord Tianzhu, on achieving Mortal Perfection!" an excited voice from the Netherworld Sect disciples rang out from below.


    "Congrattions, Lord Tianzhu, on achieving Mortal Perfection!"


    Jian Ao stood up from the sword lotus, looking around at the reverent and excited Netherworld Sect disciples. Without acknowledging their cheers, he slowly turned his gaze to the Raven Dao Lord. The Raven Dao Lord''s chest heaved, and a fierce glint shed in his eyes. Not far away, Ye Qingcheng''s brow was furrowed deeply, and Gu''s eyes flickered with fear.


    The most severely injured, Shen Qitian, was overwhelmed with terror at Jian Ao''s breakthrough.


    Why? Why am I always so unlucky?


    Without hesitation, Shen Qitian turned and fled.


    "Trying to run now?" Jian Ao''s cold voice rang out.


    With a cold shout from Jian Ao, a massive sword energy instantly tore through the space above, shooting towards Shen Qitian.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The void transformed into a ck hole once more, and at this moment, the Raven Dao Lord and Ye Qingcheng also attacked Jian Ao again.


    The five powerful figures resumed their battle, and the void transformed into a ck hole again. Meanwhile, Li Si, who had been standing beside Zhong Shan, suddenly disappeared.


    A twelfth-tier Tianji Realm expert at Mortal Perfection��how powerful could that be? Moreover, Jian Ao was a ferocious sword cultivator. Jian Ao''s current strength had surpassed Zhong Shan''s expectations!


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" The ck hole expanded more than tenfold before quickly contracting.


    As the ck hole restored itself, everyone saw an endless stream of silver light suddenly rush in one direction. The immense impact made that area the most intense.


    It was Shen Qitian. The infinite silver light pierced through him, reducing him to dust and bones.


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With only a scream left, Shen Qitian was utterly obliterated! The silver light even tore his soul to shreds.


    Everyone thought Shen Qitian was gone, his soul torn apart and destined to vanish.


    However, from the ce where his soul was about to dissipate, a strange and furious voice emerged: "Damn it, I, Sun Shen, will remember this grudge. One day, I will massacre this small world in blood! Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The violent voice carried boundless malice, making everyone''s blood run cold.


    Sun Shen? Who was Sun Shen?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Just as everyone was frowning at Shen Qitian''s death and trembling at Sun Shen''s voice, a loud explosion came from the other side of the sword lotus. Ye Qingcheng''s arm was struck, and the pitch-ck Absolute Immortal Sword shot straight towards Zhong Shan.


    Li Si��the one who suddenly attacked Ye Qingcheng��was the Great Qin Prime Minister Li Si?


    "Bastard!" the Raven Dao Lord shouted, pping his gourd.


    A beam of seven-colored light shot out.


    "Zing!"


    Jian Ao''s ten-thousand-zhang sword lotus suddenly transformed into a beam of sword light, colliding with the Immortal-ying Flying Dagger released by the Raven Dao Lord.


    "Boom!"


    The Immortal-ying Flying Dagger was forced back into the Immortal-ying Gourd, while the sword light flew back to Jian Ao and shot into his body.


    As Ye Qingcheng prepared to counterattack, Li Si had already retreated a considerable distance.


    In that brief moment, the Absolute Immortal Sword had already reached Zhong Shan.


    Was this the gift Li Si mentioned? The Absolute Immortal Sword?

 Chapter 761: The Disappearance of the Absolute Immortal Sword

    <h4>Chapter 761: The Disappearance of the Absolute Immortal Sword</h4>


    The Absolute Immortal Sword shot toward Zhong Shan, arriving at his face in the blink of an eye.


    This was Li Si''s gift? Thoughts shed through Zhong Shan''s mind. From Li Si''s actions, Zhong Shan didn''t see any sign of celebration. On the contrary, he saw deep scheming. Li Si was plotting against him. But how? What did giving the Absolute Immortal Sword mean?


    In that brief moment, Zhong Shan couldn''t fully understand Li Si''s deeper intentions. However, he knew this was an open plot. Li Si seemed to know Zhong Shan desperately wanted the Absolute Immortal Sword.


    "Attack with the orthodox, win with the unorthodox." The same principle applied here. No matter what cunning ns Li Si had, as long as Zhong Shan remained vignt and left no gaps, Li Si would have no opening.


    Though he couldn''t grasp Li Si''s intent in that short time, Zhong Shan resolutely decided to ept this grand gift.


    "Snap!"


    The Absolute Immortal Sword, which had flown toward Zhong Shan''s face, vanished in a sh of colorful light before everyone''s eyes. It was so fast that almost no one saw the Baji Heaven Tail swallow it in one gulp.


    With the lesson fromst time, Zhong Shan didn''t hesitate to seize and slowly consume the sword. Last time, he had lost a cooked duck. This time, he had to be quick. The Baji Heaven Tail had to digest the Absolute Immortal Sword as fast as possible.


    The sword''s disappearance immediately caused a change in the expressions of the onlookers in the sky.


    Panic appeared on Ye Qingcheng''s face. The same feeling asst time in the ck Sea��was it happening again?


    Ye Qingcheng repeatedly cast spells to summon the sword back, but in just a moment, the spells were ineffective.


    Impossible. Ye Qingcheng didn''t believe it. Could the Absolute Immortal Sword really be lost again? But the spells were indeed ineffective, and the sword couldn''t be summoned back.


    "Zhong Shan!" Ye Qingcheng roared furiously, but everyone could hear the traces of despair mixed with the anger.


    "Thank you for the Great Qin''s gift!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    The Raven Dao Lord''s figure blurred as he shot toward Zhong Shan with a fierce aura. Ye Qingcheng also charged toward Zhong Shan as if driven mad.


    "Whoosh!"


    The two stopped abruptly. Jian Ao, moving faster, appeared in front of Zhong Shan, staring coldly at the two Dao Lords.


    They stared at Jian Ao, filled with unwillingness.


    "Zhong Shan, hand over the Absolute Immortal Sword, or my Changsheng Realm will destroy your Lingxiao Heavenly Court and fight you to the death!" the Raven Dao Lord said in a deep voice.


    "Hahaha, Raven Dao Lord, you''re being unreasonable. When did I take the Absolute Immortal Sword from your Changsheng Realm? The one I took was a gift from the Great Qin. Making such baseless usations doesn''t harm your reputation?" Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    The Raven Dao Lord''s eyes were filled with anger. He nced in the direction where Li Si had been. Li Si had long disappeared, clearly anticipating the chaos and leaving early.


    "Zhong Shan, I know you''re good with words, but the Absolute Immortal Sword ultimately belongs to my Changsheng Realm! Hand it over now!" the Raven Dao Lord demanded coldly.


    "The property of the Changsheng Realm? Haha, you''re mistaken. The Absolute Immortal Sword belongs to Saint Tongtian. Why don''t you hand over the Immortal Execution Sword?" Zhong Shan retorted coldly.


    "You''re courting death!" the Raven Dao Lord red, preparing to unleash the Immortal Execution Gourd.


    "Zhong Shan is my friend. What, Raven Dao Lord, do you wish to continue the battle from before?" Jian Ao said calmly.


    Jian Ao was now a formidable deterrent. The Raven Dao Lord''s eyes shed with resentment, but with Jian Ao present, continuing the fight would be futile.


    "Raven Dao Lord, Shen Qitian is dead. You should leave; no one here wees you!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "Realm Lord!" Ye Qingcheng looked at the Raven Dao Lord.


    The Raven Dao Lord''s expression constantly changed as he stared at Zhong Shan. They had met many times before, and he regretted not killing him earlier. This would have prevented such a formidable threat.


    "With Jian Ao here, it''s unwise to confront him directly. But the Absolute Immortal Sword cannot be lost again," the Raven Dao Lord said coldly.


    At that moment, Ye Qingcheng''s pupils suddenly contracted, and his face changed dramatically.


    "Realm, Realm Lord!" Ye Qingcheng eximed in horror.


    "What is it?"


    "The Absolute Immortal Sword has been annihted!" Ye Qingcheng said with a trace of terror.


    "What?" the Raven Dao Lord''s eyes widened.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan let out a long breath of relief.


    Not only had Ye Qingcheng tried to summon it earlier, but Zhong Shan had also felt another powerful summoning force trying to tear the Absolute Immortal Sword away from the Baji Heaven Tail. However, with the full power of digestion, the strongest pull was resisted. Sess! All restrictions on the Absolute Immortal Sword were dissolved. Now, it was only a matter of time.


    At the entrance to the Changsheng Realm.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Another earth-shaking roar, filled with violent anger, caused the surrounding heavens and earth to darken.


    The Absolute Immortal Sword had now be part of history.


    The Raven Dao Lord''s eyes turned blood-red as he stared at Zhong Shan, filled with a relentless fury.


    But Zhong Shan met his gaze with a smile, intending to provoke him.


    "Let''s go!" The Raven Dao Lord did not take the bait. Even with such intense rage, he held it back, disying remarkable restraint. Even Zhong Shan was surprised by this.


    "Realm Lord?" Ye Qingcheng was slightly taken aback.


    "I said, let''s go!" the Raven Dao Lord repeated angrily.


    "Yes!" Ye Qingcheng and Gu responded simultaneously.


    In a sh, the three of them shot off into the distance, disappearing from everyone''s sight in an instant.


    In this battle, the Raven Dao Lord hadpletely miscalcted. Both he and Jian Ao had sustained minor injuries, but nothing serious. However, Ye Qingcheng was heavily injured.


    And Gu had not sustained any injuries at all.


    During the flight, the Raven Dao Lord nced at Gu, silentlybeling him as a "useless person." From start to finish, Gu hadn''t participated in the battle at all.


    "Realm Lord, what do we do now? How do we exin this to the Ancestor?" Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "I will speak to the Ancestor. Upon returning, I will go into seclusion. You will oversee the Changsheng Realm in my absence," the Raven Dao Lord said solemnly.


    "Seclusion?"


    "Yes, I must force a breakthrough to the twelfth tier of the Tianji Realm and unseal the Immortal-ying Gourd. If this continues, our advantage in the Changsheng Realm will diminish. I must grow stronger quickly. During this time, you will guard the Changsheng Realm. Do you understand?" the Raven Dao Lordmanded.


    "Yes!"


    "I will entrust you with the Immortal-Trapping Sword. This is your final chance. If you lose it again, you will answer to me with your life!" the Raven Dao Lord said coldly.


    "Yes!" Ye Qingcheng responded with a hint of fear in his voice.


    Meishan, after the baptism of battle, had turned intoplete ruins. Only the valley where Zhong Shan stood remained, with plum blossoms still blooming, thanks to his presence.


    As the Raven Dao Lord and the others left, Zhong Shan nced at Jian Ao with a hint of gratitude. Just then, Li Si from the Great Qin reappeared in the distance.


    Li Si looked at Zhong Shan with a slight surprise, while Zhong Shan regarded Li Si speechlessly. Indeed, someone who could be a prime minister was far from being as pedantic as he appeared. Li Si was a cunning old fox.


    "Emperor Zhong Shan, did our Great Qin''s gift please you?" Li Si asked with a smile.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Prime Minister Li, do you have any other business here?" Jian Ao asked, looking at Li Si.


    "The Holy Emperor knows that Lord Jian Ao is about to ascend, so he sent me to bid him farewell," Li Si said solemnly.


    "Oh?" Jian Ao''s pupils contracted. How did Ying know?


    Li Si''s calm smile appeared strange to both Zhong Shan and Jian Ao. Jian Ao seemed to have thought of something and nodded lightly.


    With a wave of his hand, Jian Ao threw out a white light orb, which stopped in mid-air and transformed into arge gate.


    "Netherworld Sect disciples, enter!" Jian Aomanded.


    "Yes!" Countless white-robed Netherworld Sect disciples quickly flew into the gate.


    In Zhong Shan''s small valley, two more people arrived: Liu Wushuang, who hade with Zhong Shan, and another white-robed Netherworld Sect disciple, Xiao Zhongxing, whom Zhong Shan knew as Xiao Wang and Jian Hong''s son.


    "Girl, Zhongxing wille with me. What about you? Are you sure you want to stay?" Jian Ao asked Jian Hong.


    Jian Hong looked deeply at Jian Ao, then suddenly knelt down and kowtowed several times.


    "Father, I have ties in this world. When I reach the Grand Thousand World, I will serve you again!" Jian Hong said.


    "Hmm, it''s not like we won''t see each other again. Perhaps it won''t be long before we meet again!" Jian Ao nodded.


    "Mother, I will serve you again in the Grand Thousand World!" Xiao Zhongxing suddenly knelt down and bowed as well.


    Jian Hong helped Xiao Zhongxing up and nodded.


    "Zhongxing, go inside!" Jian Ao said.


    "Yes!"


    Before long, all the Netherworld Sect disciples had entered the light orb. The light orb slowly flew back to Jian Ao''s hand and was taken back by him.


    Everything had been dealt with. Jian Ao had no more attachments in this world.


    Looking around, the countless strong cultivators who had been watching did not leave. They stood at a distance, watching the unfolding events, as if expecting something significant to happen.


    With a step, Jian Ao caused the distant ground to rise abruptly. A towering mountain surged from the earth. Jian Ao stepped onto the peak of the sword-shaped mountain, looking up at the sky. Suddenly, a gentle breeze blew around him, his long hair fluttering, and his clothes swaying gently.


    Everyone seemed to realize something and held their breath, waiting.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A massive thunderp echoed across the heavens and earth. Endless dark clouds covered the sky, lightning shed, and violent storms raged. A powerful heavenly pressure descended from above, making the ground below tremble slightly under the immense weight.


    The heavenly tribtion had arrived, and the divine might descended! Jian Ao was about to face the heavenly might and change his mortal fate. If he sessfully passed the tribtion, he would achieve the fate of an immortal. Sessfully passing the twelfth tier of the Tianji Realm''s tribtion would undoubtedly make him a celestial immortal!

 Chapter 762: Ascending to the Heavens

    <h4>Chapter 762: Ascending to the Heavens</h4>


    Jian Ao stood facing the wind, looking at the ever-increasing thunderclouds in the sky.


    Within the thunderclouds, dragon-shaped lightning bolts continuously churned.


    The shing lightning brought forth immense intimidation, a feeling of boundless dread that oppressed all the onlookers.


    Even though many strong cultivators were standing at a considerable distance, they couldn''t withstand the pressure and had to retreat further.


    "The Celestial Tribtion of the Small Thousand World is ultimately too gentle," Li Simented ndly, looking at the sky from a distance.


    Zhong Shan nced at Li Si and nodded in agreement.


    Although Zhong Shan hadn''t seen the Celestial Tribtion of the Grand Thousand World, he could tell that this tribtion could likely be ovee even by someone like Emperor Xuan.


    Jian Ao''s eyes remained calm. However, his aura continued to rise, growing stronger and stronger, as if he were trying to push back the heavenly might with his own.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The heavenly might grew stronger, with the violent lightning reaching a level that could shatter the void. Under the ck clouds, space trembled violently, and the heavenly might locked onto Jian Ao, pressing down on him.


    "Crack!"


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    From within the thunderclouds, a massive roar echoed, followed by the cry of a dragon. Endless lightning gathered into a million-zhang-long thunder dragon, which roared and charged at Jian Ao.


    Wherever the thunder dragon passed, space shattered, bringing with it a terrifying destruction that seemed capable of annihting everything in the world.


    This enormous ck hole was even more immense than the one created by the battle of the five strong cultivators earlier. The lightning strikes were undoubtedly more violent than before.


    The countless strong cultivators watching from the periphery felt their scalps tingle. The thunder dragon was only visible at the beginning;ter, all they could see was a dragon-shaped ck hole roaring towards Jian Ao.


    What kind of immense destruction was this?


    Everyone could sense the terrifying power Jian Ao was facing. A massive ck hole roaring at him?


    The timid ones retreated further and further.


    Jian Hong clenched her fists, worried for her father. Liu Wushuang swallowed hard, looking up at the sky, while Zhong Shan and Li Si stood with their hands behind their backs.


    Facing this massive onught, Jian Ao showed no fear; instead, he exuded an unyielding arrogance.


    A sh of fierceness appeared in his eyes as Jian Ao stepped forward and soared into the sky. In an instant, everyone saw boundless silver light erupt from Jian Ao''s body, enveloping him and turning him into the shape of an unparalleled fierce sword.


    Jian Ao transformed himself into a sword and charged into the sky?


    Instead of waiting for the tribtion to descend, Jian Ao flew straight into it.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    As Jian Ao moved, space shattered along with him. He collided with the heavenly ck hole, causing it to expand thousands of times. Countless lightning bolts shot out from the ck hole in all directions.


    Under the ck clouds, the sky gradually calmed, and Jian Ao''s figure disappeared.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The next moment, violent sounds continuously erupted from within the ck clouds. Jian Ao had truly charged into the tribtion clouds.


    Endless sword energy mixed with lightning rained down from the tribtion clouds. In just a short time, the high sky was devoid of ck clouds. All that remained was a massive ck hole, an unimaginably vast ck hole covering millions of miles.


    The countless strong cultivators below were filled with shock. This Jian Ao was insane! Who faced tribtion like this? Charging into the center of the tribtion clouds to fight the tribtion directly?


    Killing the Heavenly Tribtion?


    At that moment, Jian Ao''s unparalleled grace was deeply imprinted in everyone''s hearts.


    "Indeed, the Celestial Tribtion in the Small Thousand World is much more manageable," Li Simented from a distance, his tone indifferent as if this was amonce urrence.


    One hour passed, then two. The vast ck hole in the sky showed no signs of dissipating. Watching Jian Ao face the Celestial Tribtion in such a manner, people were at a loss for words.


    Some even felt a sense of shame, leaving indelible heart demons.


    "Sha~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Suddenly, a loud shout echoed from the high sky, and countless sword qi rained down in all directions like a torrential downpour. Fortunately, the sword qi wasn''t powerful enough to harm the onlookers.


    After the sword rain, people looked up at the sky in astonishment.


    The ck hole gradually disappeared, slowly being filled. At some point, Jian Ao''s figure reappeared at the peak of the sword-shaped mountain.


    Jian Ao stood at the mountain''s summit, enveloped in countless golden rays, his eyes closed as if savoring the absorption.


    Indeed, after two hours, the tribtion endedpletely. Jian Ao, with his immense strength, had passed the tribtion within the ck hole.


    "It''s over. That was quicker than I expected," Li Si remarked, slightly furrowing his brows as he looked at Jian Ao.


    Celestial Immortal? Zhong Shan stared at Jian Ao in disbelief.


    Another hour passed, and the golden light around Jian Ao dissipated. Slowly opening his eyes, his gaze now carried an indifference toward all living beings.


    Celestial Immortal, Jian Ao!


    "Father seeded!" Jian Hong eximed excitedly.


    From a distance, at the mountain''s peak, Jian Ao turned to look at Zhong Shan and gave a slight nod.


    It seemed like a final farewell. Zhong Shan nodded back.


    The sky had cleared, and after some time, the sun rose again from the east, casting the morning light of the new day across thend.


    Jian Ao waved his robe and looked up at the sky once more.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A massive explosion echoed through the sky, not from thunderclouds but as a sign of ascension.


    Directly above Jian Ao''s head, a golden light beam shot down with the explosion, expanding outward until it formed a massive circr sky, radiating golden light that connected heaven and earth, resembling a gigantic pathway.


    Colorful clouds gradually appeared around the golden pathway, forming an ascension channel.


    Everyone looked on with envy. That was the passage to the Grand Thousand World. By following this ascension channel, one could enter the Grand Thousand World.


    "It''sing!" Li Si''s eyes narrowed.


    Zhong Shan nced at Li Si in surprise. At that moment, Li Si''s eyes were filled with seriousness.


    What''sing? Who''sing? Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed as he looked back at Jian Ao at the mountain''s peak.


    Jian Ao was also frowning as he looked at the ascension channel.


    Sure enough, as the ascension channel opened, a probing shadow suddenly appeared above.


    A shadow? A visitor from the Grand Thousand World?


    "Hmph!" Jian Ao snorted coldly and soared into the sky.


    Above, more and more shadows poured downwards, heading straight for Jian Ao. Countless figures, like a swarm of locusts, surged into the Small Thousand World. The scene left Zhong Shan utterly shocked. So many people were lying in wait outside the Grand Thousand World? Jian Ao was merely ascending from one ce, and already thousands had flooded in? There must have been ten thousand by now!


    "That''s the one undergoing the tribtion. Stop him from ascending and keep the ascension channel open longer!"


    A shout suddenly echoed from the high sky.


    "Disciples of the Blood Sword Sect, stop that white-robed ascending immortal!"


    "Disciples of the Heavenly Demon Sect, stop that white-robed ascending immortal!"


    "Disciples of the Myriad Beasts Gate, stop that white-robed ascending immortal!"


    The nearly ten thousand strong cultivators who had charged into the Small Thousand World were well-organized and headed straight for Jian Ao.


    White-robed ascending immortal? Jian Ao smirked coldly. A sh of fierceness in his eyes, his body suddenly tripled in size, and a blue-ded treasured sword appeared in his hand.


    Was that Jian Ao''s sword? He hadn''t even taken it out when facing the Raven Dao Lord and the others.


    "Ha ha ha, this little immortal who just underwent tribtion in the Small Thousand World still dares to resist? Ha ha ha..."


    The ugly old man leading the chargeughed coldly.


    "sh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The old man was instantly split in two. Jian Ao cut him down in a sh. With a hint of bloodthirsty excitement, Jian Ao wielded his blue-ded sword and charged into the mass of Grand Thousand World invaders.


    Jian Ao ughtered his way through, each strike taking over a hundred lives. It seemed that the space within the ascension channel was more stable. Despite Jian Ao''s ferocity, the space remained unbroken.


    "sh! sh! sh! sh! sh!"


    Jian Ao''s frenzy was overwhelming. Each sword stroke unleashed a torrent of blood, a massacre beyond imagination.


    The Grand Thousand World strong cultivators suddenly realized that the so-called "little immortal" of the Small Thousand World was not amb but a demon, a terrifying demon of ughter.


    It was terrifying, the killing was insane, and he was untouchable. How could this be? How could there be such a powerful person?


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    "Help~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    "Save me~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    "I want to go back~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    In an instant, countless limbs and body parts rained down from the sky. The strong cultivators who had previously been as fierce as tigers were now like weeds being mowed down by Jian Ao''s relentless onught.


    Jian Ao''s elegance and prowess left everyone in awe. Ascending the pathway, he cut a swath through the invaders, leaving none alive.


    Kill! Kill! Kill!


    Some of the timid Grand Thousand World invaders, seeing Jian Ao''s frenzy, turned and fled in terror. But many more, undeterred by death, continued to charge in.


    Jian Ao killed his way upwards. Those who could enter the Small Thousand World were mostly mortals, many of whom were at the peak of the Tianji Realm. Some were immortals who had concealed their presence using secret techniques, the strongest even reaching the level of Celestial Immortal. Yet, in front of Jian Ao, it was all in vain.


    "ng, ng, ng..."


    Not everyone waspletely powerless. Among the endless influx of strong cultivators, some were formidable enough to withstand Jian Ao''s frenzied swordsmanship and managed to slip into the Small Thousand World. Jian Ao didn''t bother with them.


    "Emperor Zhong Shan, let us act together. We cannot let them wreak havoc in the Small Thousand World!" Li Si said solemnly.


    "Agreed!" Zhong Shan nodded.

 Chapter 763: Zhong Shan vs. the Celestial Immortal

    <h4>Chapter 763: Zhong Shan vs. the Celestial Immortal</h4>


    Zhong Shan and Li Si''s figures flickered as they dashed forward.


    The world''s major forces were bing clear. Each additional intruder from the Grand Thousand World introduced another variable. No one believed these invaders were here for friendship; they must have schemes. The world was like a giant cake, currently divided among three powers: Great Zheng, Great Qin, and the Longevity Realm Alliance''s Taishou Celestial Dynasty. Now, a group of Grand Thousand World invaders wanted a share? How could they be allowed to?


    Although these individuals were weakpared to the vast might of the dynasties, the myriad secret techniques of the Grand Thousand World could hold unexpected dangers. It was time to ughter.


    However, Zhong Shan also knew that those who managed to escape Jian Ao''s sword were not easy opponents.


    The escaping strong cultivators nced in horror at Jian Ao in the sky. Jian Ao was a monster. But as they looked back at the ground, an intense joy spread across their faces. They had made it down. Having escaped the monstrous celestial, what else was there to fear? The Small Thousand World was theirs to dominate.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A muffled sound echoed nearby, and everyone turned to see a lingering shadow. It was a man in a loose robe, smashing the head of a Grand Thousand World invader. The head exploded like a smashed watermelon. A strong cultivator who had just escaped Jian Ao was so easily killed?


    The Grand Thousand World invaders didn''t have time to react, but Li Si wouldn''t wait. His body shed with terrifying speed, and in an instant, he was upon the next strong cultivator.


    "sh!"


    A single hand chop, and the person was split in two.


    It was terrifying.


    "A Xuanxian? He killed a Xuanxian with one blow?" someone eximed in horror.


    The person who had eximed in fear suddenly realized that his shout had drawn Li Si''s gaze. Li Si''s eyes locked onto him.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    On the other side, Zhong Shan''s great sword also struck out with a thunderous roar.


    Heavenly sh! Thousand Waves!


    Space shattered as an unparalleled strong cultivator fell under Zhong Shan''s de.


    "He killed a Renxian?" another person shouted in terror.


    Zhong Shan''s killing speed was incredibly fast. In an instant, his sword shed towards another target.


    Zhong Shan and Li Si''s decisive ughter left the Grand Thousand World invaders trembling with fear.


    Damn it, what kind of Small Thousand World was this? Were its people all this monstrous?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    In the high sky, Jian Ao finally reached the entrance of the ascension channel, leaping into the Grand Thousand World.


    The moment Jian Ao entered the Grand Thousand World, the ascension channel abruptly closed.


    About fifty Grand Thousand World invaders were left.


    A few figures darted in all directions the moment they entered the Small Thousand World. However, the others did not flee; instead, they surrounded Zhong Shan and Li Si, seemingly intent on showing these "barbarians" their true strength.


    "Damn, the most cunning ones escaped!" Li Si frowned.


    "Escaped?" Zhong Shan asked while engaging in battle with the strong cultivators, ncing towards Li Si.


    Li Si had hidden his true capabilities well. Zhong Shan only noticed those figures leaving, but Li Si discerned their peculiarities.


    "Forget it. If they escaped, so be it. But these remaining ones? Not a single one should get away!" Li Si dered.


    "Understood!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Emperor Zhong Shan, there are five Celestial Immortals among them. You handle two, and I''ll take care of the rest!" Li Si said.


    "Celestial Immortals?"


    "Don''t worry. These Celestial Immortals aren''t that formidable, much like Sima Ce from the past. If you can''t defeat them, just hold them off until I finish the others ande to assist you!" Li Si said sternly.


    "Hahaha, not formidable? The mortals of this Small Thousand World are truly arrogant!" someoneughed loudly from above.


    "Emperor Zhong Shan? An emperor of a dynasty? Hahaha, how amusing this Small Thousand World is!"


    A group of strong cultivators surrounded Zhong Shan and Li Si. They seemed to have forgotten the massacre moments ago, emboldened after escaping Jian Ao''s sword. Having faced such a monstrous celestial, what did they have to fear now? The Small Thousand World was theirs for the taking.


    "Emperor Zhong Shan, see those two bare-chested men? Just hold them off; I''ll take care of the others!" Li Si shouted.


    Indeed, in the sky, two figures stood together, both burly and shirtless. One was golden-skinned, bald, and muscr, resembling a golden tumor. The other had fairer skin, a rugged beard, and a body covered in chest hair, looking extremely wild with arge axe on his shoulder.


    The two were very noticeable, rugged, and barbaric. Their gazes towards Zhong Shan were filled with contempt.


    "Tianji Realm Third Level? With that level of cultivation?" the bearded man sneered.


    Many others noticed Zhong Shan''s cultivation level too. Tianji Realm Third Level? How could he hope to hold off Celestial Immortals? Even though the Celestial Immortals'' power was suppressed to the Tianji Realm Twelfth Level in the Small Thousand World, expecting someone at the Third Level to hold them off seemed ludicrous.


    The Renxian Zhong Shan had killed earlier must have been severely injured for Zhong Shan to have seeded.


    After all, all fifty strong cultivators had been somewhat injured by Jian Ao.


    Zhong Shan locked his gaze on the two and said to Li Si, "Prime Minister Li, don''t worry. I''ll handle these two; the rest are yours!"


    "Good!" Li Si''s lips curled into a bloodthirsty smile.


    Zhong Shan stamped his foot and soared into the sky.


    The other strong cultivators didn''t interfere, as if the two burly men had enough status that no one else dared intrude on their fight.


    Zhong Shan''s great sword aimed at the heavens.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s "ninth-grade treasure" sword, the two burly men sneered. Did he think such a mortal weapon could harm them? How presumptuous!


    Heavenly sh, Thousand Waves!


    Zhong Shan shed down fiercely, targeting the golden-skinned man.


    As the sword descended, the void shattered, creating a massive ck hole around Zhong Shan. The two strong cultivators were momentarily taken aback, sensing something unusual.


    However, the golden-skinned man showed no fear and stood his ground, allowing Zhong Shan''s sword to strike him.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Golden light radiated from the man''s body as the sword collided with his head, producing a shower of sparks. Zhong Shan''s strike had no effect; the man''s body alone had blocked it.


    "Is that all you''ve got?" the golden-skinned man mocked, his voice filled with scorn.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed. These Celestial Immortals were indeed formidable, even if suppressed. But he had a n. He wasn''t here to merely test his strength but to ensure none of them left alive.


    He gripped his sword tighter, ready for the next move, while keeping an eye on the bearded man with the axe, who was already charging at him.


    The battle was far from over, and Zhong Shan was determined to turn the tide.


    "Damn it, is that really a mortal''s strike? It stings!" The golden-skinned burly man quickly touched his head, noticing a sudden bump that had formed.


    "Ha~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The surroundings suddenly changed as the golden-skinned man unfolded his "world." The sky turned crimson, and countless volcanoes erupted below��a volcanic world.


    "Great swordsmanship! That bald-headed guy''s strength lies entirely in his physical body. Even here in the Small Thousand World, his power is hardly diminished, yet you managed to hurt him?" the bearded burly man praised.


    "I am the Emperor of Great Zheng. Would you consider joining my Great Zheng Empire?" Zhong Shan called out from the sky.


    "Great Zheng Empire? An empire? Hahaha, we are here to assist our young master Kong Lietian. An empire? Do you think such a small empire can recruit us?" the bearded manughed.


    "All of you are here to assist Kong Lietian?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "This ascension channel''s exit is near our camp. Those who scattered upon entering the Small Thousand World are not with us. The fifty here, half of them are. Do you know our young master?" the bearded man asked.


    A cold gleam shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes. "If that''s the case, then you will all die together!"


    As he spoke, the Baji Heaven Tail suddenly appeared beneath Zhong Shan, growingrger until it reached a hundred zhang in size. The red and ck tails were particrly vibrant, exuding a violent aura.


    The Baji Heaven Tail charged at the golden-skinned burly man, while Zhong Shan''s sword aimed at the bearded man.


    Heavenly sh, Thousand Waves!


    The massive strike was aimed straight at the bearded man.


    The bearded man, realizing Zhong Shan might have a grudge against Kong Lietian, swung his giant axe down with a thunderous roar.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The bearded man''s axe deflected the power of Zhong Shan''s sword.


    "Tianji Realm Third Level, with such power, is truly rare! But you''ve offended our young master, so you must die!" the bearded man growled.


    Heavenly sh! Thousand and One Waves!


    Zhong Shan''s sword''s power surged as he struck again, his violent aura bearing down on the bearded man.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The bearded man blocked Zhong Shan''s sword once more, looking at Zhong Shan in shock.


    "Your cultivation is increasing. How is that possible? How can your cultivation increase?" the bearded man eximed in disbelief.


    Heavenly sh! Thousand and Two Waves!


    Zhong Shan''s strikes became more powerful and fluid. The energy from the Absolute Immortal Sword, consumed by the Baji Heaven Tail, was now being transferred to Zhong Shan, increasing his cultivation rapidly.


    "Tianji Realm Fourth Level? Impossible! How can your cultivation suddenly rise to the Tianji Realm Fourth Level?" the bearded man shouted.


    The golden-skinned man, on the other hand, was too preupied to notice Zhong Shan. The Baji Heaven Tail, with one tail emitting the aura of the Immortal Execution Sword and the other the aura of the Absolute Immortal Sword, exuded overwhelming power, striking fear into the golden-skinned man.


    "Tianji Realm Fifth Level? Do you have a technique for concealing your cultivation?" the bearded man finally found a usible exnation.


    However, reaching the Tianji Realm Fifth Level was already his limit. From the peak of the Third Level to the beginning of the Fifth Level, Zhong Shan had ascended two levels. This was enough for him.


    With his powerful sword, Zhong Shan struck the bearded man again.


    Heavenly sh, Thousand and Four Waves!


    "Even if you concealed your cultivation, you''re only at the Tianji Realm Fifth Level. You cannot defeat my ''Giant Spirit Axe''." The bearded man swung his giant axe.

 Chapter 764: Open Heaven vs. Giant Spirit

    <h4>Chapter 764: Open Heaven vs. Giant Spirit</h4>


    Heavenly sh, Thousand and Four Waves! Giant Spirit Axe Might!


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a thunderous collision, Zhong Shan was pushed back a thousand zhang, while the bearded man only stepped back half a step!


    "A mortal sword, wielded by someone at the Tianji Realm Fifth Level, to have such power��you should be proud. But a mortal sword is still just a mortal sword. It can never match my Giant Spirit Axe, which is a top-tier Earth Immortal weapon. Hmph, a mortal sword against it? Ridiculous!" the bearded man sneered.


    "An Earth Immortal weapon?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "A top-tier Earth Immortal weapon!" the bearded man red, his eyes shing with pride.


    "Hahaha, just an Earth Immortal weapon, and you, a Celestial Immortal, only wield an Earth Immortal weapon? And you''re proud of that? Howughable!" Zhong Shanughed wildly.


    In battle, Zhong Shan''s taunts were usually deliberate, hoping to find his opponent''s biggest weakness through their reactions.


    "You know nothing, you barbarian from the Small Thousand World. Do you think Immortal weapons are like mortal weapons that you can just forge at will? Hmph, Immortal weapons require not only the best materials but also an understanding of thews. You, a barbarian, know nothing. My Giant Spirit Axe contains half a rune from the Open Heaven Axe. It holds the guidance of the Heavenly Dao. It is among the finest of Earth Immortal weapons. Dying under this axe is a great honor for you!" the bearded man sneered.


    "Half a rune from the Open Heaven Axe?" Zhong Shan was momentarily taken aback.


    "Afraid now? Hahaha, you must have heard of the Open Heaven Axe in the Small Thousand World. It embodies the guidance of the Heavenly Dao. My Giant Spirit Axe contains half a rune from it. Today, you will not escape death!" the bearded man boasted proudly.


    Zhong Shan was momentarily stunned, then looked at the bearded man with determination and put away his sword.


    Seeing Zhong Shan put away his sword, the bearded man frowned. Was this guy surrendering?


    "If you surrender ande with me to see the young master, I will spare your life!" the bearded man said coldly.


    "Surrender? You''re not qualified!" Zhong Shan shook his head and sneered.


    "Courting death!" The bearded man lifted his axe and struck again.


    Zhong Shan extended his palms, which emitted a strange silver light, enveloped in a faint white mist with countless runes floating within.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s palms, the bearded man raised an eyebrow, sensing something strange.


    The Giant Spirit Axe in the bearded man''s hand suddenly trembled, as if in fear.


    "What technique is this?" the bearded man was startled.


    "Try it and find out," Zhong Shan sneered.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan unleashed a massive palm in the void, grasping at the bearded man with a terrifying pressure.


    The bearded man saw the palm and, for some reason, felt as if a sharp de wasing straight at him. That de felt very familiar��like his own axe.


    A palm that felt like an axe?


    The bearded man didn''t dare to be careless and swung his Giant Spirit Axe with all his might, sending out a huge axe beam to meet the giant palm.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The giant palm in the void grabbed the axe beam, holding it firmly.


    "Snap!"


    Another phantom palm appeared, as Zhong Shan''s other hand unleashed a simr giant palm, also grabbing the Giant Spirit Axe.


    The bearded man was horrified to find that his axe seemed stuck, unable to move. How could this be? How could these palms be so powerful? What kind of technique was this? How could someone at the Tianji Realm Fifth Level immobilize his weapon?


    "Impossible, impossible!"


    "What technique is this? Heavenly sh! Tornado Rend!" Zhong Shan''s voice was icy cold.


    Heavenly sh, Tornado Rend!


    This was a technique Zhong Shan had created long ago, focusing on tearing rules apart. Now, Zhong Shan was applying it to tear thews themselves. Using his hands, it was naturally easier than shing with a sword.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a powerful roar, Zhong Shan twisted his hands, following the pattern of thews and forcefully pulling apart!


    "Rip~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The immense energy of the Giant Spirit Axe was torn in two, and the force continued towards the bearded man.


    "Rip~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With the appearance of a ck spatial tear, the Giant Spirit Axe itself was split down the middle from the de.


    "No~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The bearded man seemed to be in a dream, unable to ept the reality that his most powerful weapon was being torn apart by a mortal''s bare hands. This was a top-tier Earth Immortal weapon, infused with half a rune from the Open Heaven Axe, yet it was being torn apart by a mortal?


    What kind of Small Thousand World was this? Or was he still dreaming?


    The sheer force made it impossible for the bearded man to pull back the Giant Spirit Axe. The tearing force was too overwhelming. In just an instant, the Giant Spirit Axe was split into two jagged pieces, and the tear continued to grow.


    "Impossible, it''s just the de. The body of the Giant Spirit Axe is the strongest!" the bearded man tried to reassure himself.


    At that moment, a strange energy from the Giant Spirit Axe seemed to flow into Zhong Shan''s palms. His palms glowed even brighter with a silvery light, and the phantom hands in the void became more solid and powerful.


    "The Open Heaven Axe rune? You''re absorbing the Open Heaven Axe rune? Impossible, no one can take it!" the bearded man shouted in shock.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Giant Spirit Axe was torn apart. What remained was the lower half, with the de split in two. One half was still in the bearded man''s hand, while the other half was torn away by Zhong Shan and casually thrown aside.


    The half rune from the Giant Spirit Axe had been absorbed into Zhong Shan''s palms. With the rune gone, the Giant Spirit Axe became a useless scrap.


    The bearded man looked at Zhong Shan in terror, then at the ruined Giant Spirit Axe in his hand. The once powerful Earth Immortal weapon was now barely recognizable, almost resembling a Fang Tian Halberd.


    The bearded man''s mind was linked to the Giant Spirit Axe, and the destruction of his weapon caused him severe mental trauma. However, the spiritual damage was nothingpared to the heartbreak of losing his treasured weapon.


    An Earth Immortal weapon!


    The bearded man looked up at Zhong Shan, now seeing him as a terrifying monster from the Small Thousand World.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan''s hands had returned to normal, and he once again gripped his great sword.


    Heavenly Demon Body Refining Technique, Sixth Level!


    Heavenly sh! Thousand and Eight Waves!


    Zhong Shan unleashed another strike, a tremendously powerful sh. The force of the blow sealed everything around them. The bearded man, in his Celestial Immortal realm, found himself unable to escape. How could this be?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The overwhelming power of Zhong Shan''s strike bore down on the bearded man. He was unable toprehend how someone at the Tianji Realm Fifth Level could wield such devastating power. As the blow descended, he knew he had no way to counter or escape.


    With nowhere to run, the bearded man faced his impending doom, realizing toote that he had grossly underestimated his opponent.


    The Giant Spirit Axe was destroyed, and the bearded man could only draw a shield-like Immortal weapon.


    However, this weapon was far inferior to the Giant Spirit Axe.


    "A mortal weapon? A mortal weapon can still kill a Celestial Immortal!" Zhong Shan shouted arrogantly.


    Heavenly sh, Thousand and Eight Waves!


    Zhong Shan''s strike mmed into the Immortal shield.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Immortal shield shattered, but Zhong Shan''s force did not diminish, and his sword continued its downward arc.


    "Ah~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The bearded man let out a scream as he was cleaved in two by Zhong Shan.


    A Celestial Immortal? So what?


    Zhong Shan sheathed his sword and let out a long breath.


    On the other side, the golden-skinned burly man faced an unprecedented terror.


    The Baji Heaven Tail''s speed was no longer slow. One tail resembled the ughtering Immortal Sword, the other the Absolute Immortal Sword. The two incredibly sharp tails were overwhelmingly powerful. In the past, even the Divine Beast Kunpeng couldn''t handle the Baji Heaven Tail. How could this fool, who only refined his physical body, be a match?


    Is physical toughness enough to withstand Zhong Shan''s sword?


    How could itpare to the ughtering Immortal Sword''s sharpness or the Absolute Immortal Sword''s might?


    Under the Baji Heaven Tail''s fierce assault, the burly man''s body was riddled with wounds, blood gushing out.


    Seeing the bearded man cleaved in two by Zhong Shan, the golden-skinned man tried to flee in terror.


    But it was toote. The Baji Heaven Tail had already ensnared him.


    The ughtering Immortal Sword-like tail aimed for his head, while the Absolute Immortal Sword-like tail targeted his dantian.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    ughtering God, Destroying Soul!


    Another Celestial Immortal fell.


    "Rumble~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Celestial Immortal''s "world" abruptly vanished, turning back into a vast ck hole, and the Baji Heaven Tail disappeared as well.


    Looking at the two fallen Celestial Immortals, Zhong Shan showed a trace of disdain. "The Celestial Tribtion of the Grand Thousand World is said to be stronger than that of the Small Thousand World. I can''t imagine how weaklings like you managed to survive it."


    While Zhong Shan showed disdain outwardly, inwardly he made various spections. In the Small Thousand World, people undergo the Celestial Tribtion with their mortal bodies and weapons, relying solely on their own strength. But in the Grand Thousand World, ordinary weaklings wouldn''t survive the tribtion. Those who did must have relied on powerful Immortal weapons provided by their backers.


    With a final look of contempt at the two corpses, Zhong Shan collected them. They were useless to him, but perhaps Mr. Corpse could make use of them.


    The ck hole gradually dissipated, and the sky returned to normal.


    To Zhong Shan''s surprise, as the ck hole around him vanished, he saw that Li Si had already dealt with all his opponents.


    There had been over forty strong cultivators left, including three Celestial Immortals. Li Si had taken them all down so quickly?


    "Emperor Zhong Shan, you are impressive!" Li Si praised with a smile.


    "Prime Minister Li, you tter me!" Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    Li Si appeared more mysterious the more Zhong Shan observed him. And Great Qin was even more enigmatic. Just how deep were Great Qin''s resources? How powerful was Ying?


    The numerous strong cultivators watching from afar hadn''t all left. Seeing Zhong Shan and Li Si''s disy of strength, they were filled with awe.


    "Unfortunately, the most cunning ones escaped. Be careful in the future, Emperor Zhong Shan," Li Si warned.


    "Oh? I need to be careful?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "With your dynasty about to ascend, they mighte after you," Li Si said with a smile.


    Without further ado, Li Si stepped away and quickly disappeared into the distance.


    Watching Li Si''s retreating figure, Zhong Shan fell into a brief silence.


    At that moment, Jian Hong and Liu Wushuang flew over.


    "Return to the court!" Zhong Shanmanded solemnly.

 Chapter 765: The Purpose of the Grand Thousand World Visitors

    <h4>Chapter 765: The Purpose of the Grand Thousand World Visitors</h4>


    Underworld, Changjing, Zhong Shan''s Study.


    "Your Majesty, the front lines are achieving continuous victories. Lin Xiao, Shui Jing, Shui Wuhen, Zhao Suoxiang, and Xiao Wang��all five armies are unstoppable. No strong dynasty can halt our troops'' advance anymore!" Yi Yan reported.


    "Good. It must be swift. I want the south unified within ten years!" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    "Yan Chongzhi! How are things on your end?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Your Majesty, the first batch of talents has been selected through this examination. Once you approve them, they will be dispatched to administer the newly conquered cities!" Yan Chongzhi responded solemnly.


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Your Majesty, may I ask why you summoned us?" Nangong Sheng asked curiously.


    Nangong Sheng, the head of the Divination Department, held argely ceremonial position, with no direct involvement in either governance or military affairs. His summons suggested something significant.


    "Something happened in the mortal world yesterday that I need to discuss with you," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Oh?"


    "Yesterday, on the fifteenth day of the first month, the Netherworld Lord Jian Ao underwent the Celestial Tribtion. Ultimately..." Zhong Shan recounted the events.


    "Just as I suspected," Nangong Sheng mused.


    "Oh?"


    "After the ancient magical power of Pangu opened the heavens, ording to the information Your Majesty had previously gathered, the Small Thousand World should have been surrounded by many strong cultivators. I had anticipated this and chose to move quietly through the underworld to the Grand Thousand World''s underworld. Since Pangu opened the heavens in the mortal realm, the external manifestations were primarily in the mortal realm, not the underworld," Nangong Sheng exined.


    "Indeed. The mortal realm disyed the signs of the heavens'' opening, attracting countless strong cultivators. This is a well-known fact. The underworld did not have these signs. The y Bodhisattva once used a secret method to investigate the underworld''s external affairs, but people only focused on the Earth Book swallowed by the Fire Qilin, ignoring the signs of the heavens'' opening. The behavior of the Wu nst time also supports this. This means that Nie Fancheng and Wu Jiutian also left through the underworld," Zhong Shan nodded in agreement.


    "Who would have thought that Netherworld Lord Jian Ao would be so domineering, ughtering his way up to the heavens, killing countless strong cultivators and entering the Grand Thousand World''s mortal realm," Nangong Sheng remarked.


    "Li Si mentioned that those scattered strong cultivators woulde to visit Great Zheng when we ascend. Do any of you know why?" Zhong Shan asked the group.


    Nangong Sheng frowned, shaking his head, unable to discern the reason immediately.


    "Your Majesty, I might have some insight," Mr. Corpse suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan looked at Mr. Corpse. As someone from the Grand Thousand World, Mr. Corpse would likely understand the mindset of those from there.


    "Your Majesty, I only know part of the reason why countless people from the Grand Thousand World are flocking here. They may have other schemes, but I know one reason that drives them mad," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Go on," Zhong Shan urged.


    "In the Small Thousand World, it is much easier to obtain the positions of heavenly officespared to the Grand Thousand World. Collecting luck and merit is much more convenient here. In the Grand Thousand World, securing even a low-tier position is extremely difficult. Mid-tier positions are fiercely contested, often by immortals, and high-tier positions, except for a few special cases, are almost exclusively held by powerful immortals. The qualifications and status required to hold these positions are immense," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "They''reing to seize the positions of heavenly offices?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, everyone knows the benefits of heavenly positions. Low positions triple cultivation speed, middle positions increase it tenfold, and high positions increase it by a hundredfold. This allure drives countless people mad. A person who cultivates for a thousand years umtes a hundred thousand years of progress. Who wouldn''t fight for that?" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "But what benefit do they gain from attacking Great Zheng?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The mortal realm is already divided into three factions. Thend has been mostly partitioned. These strong cultivators can establish an empire easily, but the world is already divided among the three major dynasties. Only if one dynasty copses, leaving vast territories unimed, can they establish their own empire!" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "On the surface, Great Zheng is just an empire, making it the easiest target. Additionally, in the Grand Thousand World, empires often fail when ascending to heavenly dynasties. If we fail, it would severely weaken us. These Grand Thousand World visitors are waiting for this failure, or perhaps they''re nning to cause our failure. If we fail, that will be their chance!" Mr. Corpse exined.


    Everyone nodded in agreement.


    "However, this is not the most critical point. If they can establish an empire and obtain a middle position, they might seize the opportunity to gain a high position when a heavenly dynasty opens the heavens," Mr. Corpse continued.


    "Oh? Obtain a high position? Can the fortunes of a Grand Thousand World''s opening heavenly dynasty benefit other dynasties?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "No, it''s about vassge," Mr. Corpse rified.


    "Oh?"


    "Vassge forms a subordinate rtionship between the vassal and the master dynasty. By choosing to be a vassal, they must contribute half of their fortune freely, and the master dynasty will interfere in their governance. However, if the master dynasty ascends, the vassal dynasty will also rise significantly," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Oh? Vassge?"


    "For instance, if the ancient Luo Heavenly Dynasty opened the heavens, and the Great Li chose to be its vassal, half of the Great Li''s fortune would converge with the Luo Heavenly Dynasty. After the opening, the Grand Thousand World would still grant a lot of fortune to the Great Li due to its rtionship with the Luo Heavenly Dynasty. Regardless of how much fortune is granted, half will be forcibly taken by the Luo Heavenly Dynasty. This establishes a hierarchical rtionship," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "What about the heavenly positions?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The positions remain, but their effectiveness is halved. For example, a hundredfold cultivation speed bes fiftyfold," Mr. Corpse said.


    "These visitors from the Grand Thousand World want to establish an empire, enjoy middle positions, and then be vassals to a heavenly dynasty they believe will open the heavens. Although the chances are slim, it could elevate their empire to a heavenly dynasty after the celestial event, granting them high positions but at half effectiveness, or fifty times cultivation speed!" Yi Yan pondered.


    "This is one of the reasons why countless strong cultivators want to enter the Small Thousand World now!" Mr. Corpse concluded.


    "But why are so many people waiting outside? What are they waiting for if they can''t enter the Small Thousand World?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "Your Majesty, do you remember the Primordial Sacred Court?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "Yes."


    "Last time, Sima Ce''s ''Discussion of the Heavens'' was aimed at making us a vassal of the Primordial Sacred Court after we open the heavens. If Your Majesty opens the heavens and gains a ''living position,'' resulting in a thousandfold cultivation speed, bing their vassal would reduce it to five hundredfold, while the Primordial Sacred Court''s Saint King would gain an additional two hundred and fiftyfold cultivation speed. Sacred courts with simr ambitions must be waiting outside!" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Indeed. But what about the others?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The others, they''re here for us ministers," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Oh?"


    "When the Small Thousand World opens the heavens, it''s a unique process. Heavenly blessings descend upon the dynasty, benefiting not only the newly established Holy King but also all the ministers. As long as the Holy King remains alive, his ministers will experience battles and ughters shortly after the heavens open. This is known as a ''battle for positions.'' If Your Majesty opens the heavens and gains the ''Living Position,'' we ministers will be promoted to ''High Positions.'' During the short time after the heavens open, if someone kills me, they will take my ''High Position.'' Moreover, this kind of heaven-granted ''heavenly position'' cannot be revoked, not even by Your Majesty. Therefore, opening the heavens is extremely perilous. When the ancient magical power of Pangu opened the heavens, it was manageable because people didn''t understand the situation then, and there weren''t as many strong cultivators around. Once the heavens are stable, this ''battle for positions'' no longer urs because everything has already been settled. However, for us, if Your Majesty opens the heavens, we will face this danger!" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Competing for heavenly positions?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    Mr. Corpse stepped back after his exnation, leaving the room silent with the weight of his words.


    This second opening of the heavens would be far more dangerous than the first. The outside world was teeming with strong cultivators, ready to pounce. How vast was the Grand Thousand World? Zhong Shan didn''t know the exact size, but he knew that every moment of dy could bring more strong cultivators.


    If they were to open the heavens, it had to be done as soon as possible.


    A vassal state? The Primordial Sacred Court had made their calctions well!


    "Yi Yan, expedite our preparations. In ten years, we will ascend to a heavenly dynasty!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    <strong>Mortal Realm, Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty, Xianyang Holy Capital.</strong>


    In the court of the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty, Li Si knelt before Ying.


    "Reporting to Your Majesty, I have delivered the Absolute Immortal Sword to Zhong Shan as a gift for Great Zheng''s ascension," Li Si said.


    "Well done," Ying nodded.


    "At this moment, more and more strong cultivators are gathering outside the Small Thousand World. Should we take any action?" Li Si asked with a frown.


    "Do you know how vast the Grand Thousand World is? There is no need to worry. The opening of the heavens by the ancient magical power of Pangu was recent rtive to the endless territories of the Grand Thousand World," Ying said calmly.


    "Understood!" Li Si acknowledged.


    <strong>Ten Years Later.</strong>


    The southern region of the underworld was now unified under Great Zheng. The Great Zheng Empire reached itsrgest territorial extent in history, dominating the southern endless territories��a feat that even previous heavenly dynasties had not aplished.


    <strong>Underworld, Tian Family.</strong>


    Patriarch Tian Xiaozi had fully recovered and stood in the Tian Pulse Hall, looking towards the south. He took a deep breath, a sh of resentment crossing his eyes, but he managed to suppress it.


    The battle at the ck Sea over a decade ago had taught Tian Xiaozi many lessons, and he had matured significantly, now fully understanding the importance of patience.


    "Patriarch, Great Zheng is about to ascend to a heavenly dynasty. Should we...?" asked Lady Tian Lao.


    "The rise and fall of the world are like the tides. Great Zheng is currently at its peak, with the military, the people, and their fighting spirit at their strongest. It is not wise to confront them now. We should wait until the tide recedes; that will be the right time to strike. Zhong Shan is a wise leader. Going against him now would be futile. From the ck Sea battle, I learned one crucial thing: never act without absolute certainty. When we strike, we must ensure the enemy''s demise," Tian Xiaozi exined.

 Chapter 766: The Ascension of Dazhen

    <h4>Chapter 766: The Ascension of Dazhen</h4>


    Taisui Empire, Imperial Court


    In the grand hall of the Taisui Empire, officials stood respectfully on either side. On the central dragon throne, Kong Lietian loungedzily, his right arm resting on the armrest, supporting his chin. His half-closed eyes scanned the assembly of civil and military officials, his fingers tapping lightly as if lost in thought.


    The hall was silent, waiting for Kong Lietian''s decision.


    "Forget Dust!" Kong Lietian called out.


    At the call, the foremost official on the left, Wangchen, stepped forward. Once known as Zhong Shijiu, Wangchen had been an adopted son of Zhong Shan.


    "Your servant is here!" Wangchen responded respectfully.


    "The Dazhen Empire is about to be elevated?" Kong Lietian asked casually.


    "Yes! It is about to ascend to the status of an imperial dynasty," Wangchen confirmed with a respectful nod.


    On the right side, Sekong looked at Kong Lietian with a hint of confusion.


    "What are your thoughts on this?" Kong Lietian asked with a wicked smile.


    Wangchen''s brows furrowed slightly, a deep sense of helplessness shing in his eyes.


    "Your Majesty, I have long severed ties with Dazhen. My loyalty lies solely with Your Majesty. If Your Majesty doubts this, I am willing to prove my loyalty with my life!" Wangchen dered immediately.


    Kong Lietian''s eyes narrowed, but he remained silent.


    Suddenly, a red line appeared on Wangchen''s forehead. He reached up and pressed his finger to the mark.


    "The Blood Nerve technique I practice was passed to me by Your Majesty. I am willing to destroy my sea of blood to prove my loyalty. Once the sea of blood is destroyed, there will be no saving me. I have a past that many cannot believe, but my heart now belongs to Your Majesty. I wish for Your Majesty to unify the world and create a new era!" Wangchen proimed.


    As he finished speaking, Wangchen pressed his finger forcefully against his forehead, the strength and speed of his action indicating that he had poured all his power into it. Even if he wanted to save himself, it would be toote.


    "Boom������������!"


    Wangchen staggered back ten steps, but his finger did not pierce his forehead, clearly indicating someone''s intervention.


    "Did I ever say I didn''t trust you?" Kong Lietian raised an eyebrow.


    Wangchen immediately knelt down. "Thank you, Your Majesty!"


    It was evident that Kong Lietian had saved Wangchen just now.


    Sekong, standing to the side, looked at Wangchen with a hint of disappointment in his eyes. Sekong seemed to have a natural sensitivity and an instinctive fear towards Zhong Shan, which extended to Wangchen as well. Seeing Wangchen alive, a sense of regret shed in Sekong''s eyes.


    "Dazhen is about to be elevated to an imperial dynasty. Our empire must send someone to congratte them, to demonstrate the might of the Taisui Empire, and to investigate Dazhen''s situation!" Kong Lietian announced.


    At these words, Sekong''s entire body tensed, and he quickly retreated. Thest time Dazhen ascended to an imperial dynasty, Sekong had been the one to go. Since that experience, he had sworn never to go again.


    Wangchen kept his head down, knowing that as Zhong Shan''s former adopted son, any reaction from him would arouse suspicion.


    The Taisui Empire and the Dazhen Empire had an irreconcble enmity between their rulers. The death of the previous Taisui Emperor, Lu Guitian, had Zhong Shan''s involvement, and the Taisui Empire''s alliance with the Longevity Realm deepened their enmity with Dazhen. Who would dare go?


    As a result, not a single official spoke.


    Kong Lietian, unfazed, surveyed the assembly of officials. As his gaze swept over them, everyone lowered their heads, not daring to meet his eyes. Finally, his gazended on the kneeling Wangchen.


    Kong Lietian frowned as he looked at Wangchen, his eyes narrowing.


    "Wangchen, since you have severed ties with your past, you shall represent the Taisui Empire in the Dazhen ascension ceremony," Kong Lietian said indifferently.


    Wangchen raised his head in surprise, a look of astonishment shing across his face before he took a deep breath and said, "Your servant obeys!"


    Sekong, standing to the side, squinted at Wangchen. He could understand Kong Lietian''s intention; this was a test for Wangchen, as Kong Lietian had not fully trusted him yet.


    <strong>In a Valley in the Divine Land</strong>


    In a secluded valley, there stood a simple hut. Despite its simplicity, it exuded a pure and serene aura. The roof was covered with a peculiar grass known as ''divination grass,'' which was not the usual green but a calming purple.


    Outside the hut, everything was neat and tidy. An old, withered man with white hair and wrinkled skin sat at a table. In the center of the table were nine tortoise shells stacked into a small mound, with mes seemingly dancing within them, causing the shells to crack.


    "Crack... crack... crack..."


    The old man stared at the lines forming on the tortoise shells, as if trying to read something from them. Suddenly, his pupils contracted, and a look of shock crossed his face.


    "Have you figured it out? Your time is up!" came a coldugh from outside the valley.


    The old man looked around and saw a ck-robed figure approaching from a distant mountain peak, stopping not far from him.


    "A guest from the Great Thousand World, among all who have scattered, you are the most dangerous. It took me a long time to find you," the ck-robed figure said calmly.


    "I don''t know what you''re talking about," the old man rasped, ring at the neer.


    "Don''t know what I''m talking about? The Great Thousand World, the Ziyang family! You are a traitor of the Ziyang family, once a servant who dared to kill his master. After a thousand years of silence, you could have truly escaped, but you couldn''t stay dormant and wanted to stir up trouble in this Small Thousand World. How unfortunate," the ck-robed figure said coldly.


    The old man''s pupils shrank, and a look of horror appeared in his eyes.


    "Who are you? What do you want?" the old man shouted.


    "My name? Alright, to give you peace before you die, you can call me ''Mister Xuan,''" the ck-robed figure said in a deep voice.


    <strong>Dazhen Empire, Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Tianyuan Pavilion</strong>


    Zhong Shan stood in formal attire, wearing a golden dragon robe and exuding an air of authority. Before him stood a delighted Hao Meili. Perched on her shoulder was the little golden dragon that had always followed her. This time, she had found it again in the East Sea.


    The little golden dragon remained small, seemingly enjoying Hao Meili''s shoulder immensely.


    "Zhong Shan, you look quite impressive today!" Hao Meili teased with a grin.


    "You brought the little golden dragon again. Did you inform Ao Sihai?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Let him be! For the sake of the little golden dragon, I won''t hold a grudge against him, but I don''t need to report my actions to him!" Hao Meili said, clearly annoyed at the mention of Ao Sihai.


    "But bringing the little golden dragon is one thing. Why did you bring a whole group of dragons from the East Sea? How did you convince them toe?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Of course, it was the little golden dragon that persuaded them. I knew you were about to ascend to an imperial dynasty, so I brought a group of dragons to help protect you. Aren''t I a good friend?" Hao Meili said proudly.


    Zhong Shan looked at Hao Meili, unsure of what to say. The dragon n was the national beast of the Great Qin, and now Hao Meili had tricked them into protecting Dazhen, which felt somewhat peculiar.


    "Alright, just keep an eye on them and make sure they don''t cause any trouble," Zhong Shan said.


    "They wouldn''t dare!" Hao Meili red.


    "Okay," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "You go ahead. Don''t mind me. The ascension ceremony is about to start, and many people are waiting for you," Hao Meili said, picking up a fruit from the table and starting to eat.


    "Alright."


    <strong>Seventh Day of the Seventh Month</strong>


    It was the most auspicious day of the year. The sky was clear, and the weather was beautiful. The Dazhen Empire was celebrating nationwide. At Lingxiao Heavenly Court, golden light shone brilliantly in all directions. The people had paused their activities because everyone knew that today was an incredibly significant day; Dazhen was about to ascend.


    In front of the Hall of Longevity, officials, generals, Emperor Xuan Sha, the y Bodhisattva, the empresses, and the two crown princes stood, all looking excitedly at Zhong Shan at the entrance of the hall.


    When a kingdom ascended to an imperial dynasty, the ritual involved worshipping the heavens and the earth, sealing the heavens and the earth. When an imperial dynasty ascended to an empire, they worshipped the heavens and stepped on the earth, worshipping only the heavens. Now, as an empire ascended to a heavenly dynasty, everyone was curious about the process.


    Zhong Shan nced at his ministers, a satisfied look in his eyes, and slowly walked to the center of the Hall of Longevity''s square.


    In the center of the square, Zhong Shan stood proudly and took out two sacred artifacts of Dazhen: the "Fang Tian Imperial Seal" in his left hand and the "List of Deities" in his right.


    Looking up at the heavens, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and began to speak:


    "I, Zhong Shan, establish the Dazhen Empire under the Mandate of Heaven, to govern all living beings, to proim peace to the heavens, and to honor the gods'' contributions. Having reached the utmost of the emperor''s mandate, I hereby petition the heavens for the Dazhen Empire''s celestial title, to be presented to the heavens! Ascend to a heavenly dynasty!"


    As Zhong Shan spoke, everything fell silent. Even the boundless luck and infinite merit in the sky seemed to pause.


    Once Zhong Shan finished speaking, the enormous luck dragon in the sea of luck clouds above suddenly stirred.


    "Roar��������!"


    A thunderous dragon roar echoed, spreading across Lingxiao Heavenly Court and seemingly reaching every city in Dazhen. All the citizens of Dazhen heard this mighty dragon roar.


    The neen-wed luck dragon roared towards the sky. The previously silent sky turned into a stormy sea as if the dragon''s roar was sending Zhong Shan''s imperial decree to the heavens and the Great Thousand World.


    "Boom��������!"


    With a loud noise, the sky turned purple, and lightning shed. This was Zhong Shan''s sky, with endless purple light shining over Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    The enormous neen-wed luck dragon descended from the sky, heading straight for Zhong Shan.


    In an instant, the dragon fused into Zhong Shan''s body. His body radiated golden light, so intense that everyone had to close their eyes. When they opened them again, Zhong Shan was gone. He had merged with the neen-wed luck dragon, transforming into the dragon''s form. The dragon then soared into the sky, ascending to the sea of luck clouds and beyond the nine heavens.

 Chapter 767: The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts

    <h4>Chapter 767: The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts</h4>


    Zhong Shan, transformed into a dragon, soared towards the purple sky above the nine heavens.


    "Roar����!"


    With a thunderous dragon roar, countless bolts of lightning erupted from the golden dragon''s head, shooting straight into the purple sky. The vast purple sky that covered Lingxiao Heavenly Court shed with lightning as if responding to the golden dragon. Then, numerous bolts of lightning were redirected back to the golden dragon.


    "Boom����!"


    A loud explosion sounded beyond the purple sky, and suddenly, countless beams of golden light appeared at its edges, as if being drawn in from all directions. This vast golden light passed through the purple sky, entering the golden dragon''s horns and being absorbed by the dragon.


    The purple sky gradually shrank. This sky belonged to Zhong Shan. He slowly retracted his ''sky,'' leaving behind a brilliant golden expanse high above. When the purple skypletely disappeared, the entire high sky was covered in golden light. This golden sky cast endless rays of light downwards, enveloping the golden dragon in a cocoon of golden light.


    The golden sky appeared peculiar, as if it was not merely a gathering of luck but something more profound. The space seemed to distort, suggesting that this golden light originated from the Great Thousand World. Was Zhong Shan undergoing a celestial baptism? Was he ascending to a higher rank?


    The Dazhen Empire awaited solemnly.


    Above Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the golden light shone brilliantly. Meanwhile, on a distant mountain peak, a group of ck-robed figures appeared.


    "Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts, who will strike first?" one of the ck-robed figures asked in a deep voice.


    The ck-robed figures all looked at the slightly thin man in the center.


    "At this point, what''s there to argue about? Dazhen must be destroyed. Can one person make that much of a difference? Remember the rumors we''ve heard over the years? Dazhen is not easily broken," the leader, the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts, said coldly.


    "Zhong Shan cannot intervene right now. We must seize this moment!" the previous speaker insisted.


    "Don''t worry. The ascension ceremony has just begun. It will take at least a day for Dazhen to ascend. In this day, we can aplish much. I''ve already arranged everything on my end. We will soon begin the assault on Lingxiao Heavenly Court," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts replied.


    "And then? Establish our own imperial dynasty?"


    "And then? Why bother? With the leader of the Tianmo Sect here, do we need to establish another dynasty?" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts sneered.


    "Oh?"


    "The Small Thousand World asionally encounters Tianmo demons, but they do not understand the intricacies of our methods. They don''t know the secret techniques of the Great Thousand World. Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty? We don''t have to destroy it; we can control it," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said.


    "Control it?" someone asked in surprise.


    "Yes. Once we control Dazhen, we can gradually take it over. When the timees, I will be the emperor, and you all will hold high positions. How does that sound? It''s much more interesting than each of us establishing our own dynasties. Moreover, with the mysterious techniques of the Great Thousand World, we could even unify this world. Wouldn''t it be better if we were the ones to create a new era?" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said in a deep voice.


    "Can we really do that?"


    "Why not? This Small Thousand World has already shown signs of a new era. If we unify this world, who else could contest us?" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts dered.


    "Good!" "Good!" The group of ck-robed figures unanimously agreed.


    <strong>Above Lingxiao Heavenly Court, in front of the Hall of Longevity</strong>


    The key officials of Dazhen gazed devoutly at the sky, patiently awaiting the lengthy ascension process.


    Suddenly, the y Bodhisattva''s pupils contracted.


    "Everyone!" he called out.


    The ministers turned to look at him.


    "The fox is finally showing its tail," the y Bodhisattva said calmly.


    "Oh?" Yi Yan looked at the y Bodhisattva.


    "Two years ago, I evacuated everyone from beneath Lingxiao Heavenly Court and set up a trigger array. The opponent has activated it. The first wave is a wave of feng shui," the y Bodhisattva said, narrowing his eyes.


    Beneath Lingxiao Heavenly Court, violent winds suddenly rose from all directions, turning the environment extremely harsh. The wind came from the south, apanied by a roaring sound.


    The y Bodhisattva and others quickly flew to the South Heavenly Gate.


    Standing at the South Heavenly Gate, they looked southward.


    In the distance, it appeared as if a vast ocean was rushing toward them. Giant waves destroyed mountain peaks one after another. The immense flood quickly submerged peak after peak, and the water seemed to be contained by some special barrier, directing it solely towards the area beneath Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    The water level rose higher and higher, reminiscent of the time when Hao Meili led the dragon n to flood the Twelve Cities of Linhai.


    "Such a huge flood. Xiao Jin, summon the dragon n to push back the water!" Hao Meili called to the little golden dragon on her shoulder.


    "No need," the y Bodhisattva suddenly shook his head.


    "Why?" Hao Meili raised an eyebrow.


    "This is not real water. It is a derivative world flood. The water itself is not frightening, but the derivative world that aims to engulf all of Lingxiao Heavenly Court is. Once this derivative world envelops us, we will bepletely submerged," Tiao exined.


    "Indeed, this is a derivative world pushing towards us," the y Bodhisattva added with a cold smile.


    "What should we do then?" Hao Meili asked, frowning.


    "Don''t worry, the Wheel Pce is ready," the y Bodhisattva said calmly.


    He performed a hand seal and cast it into the void.


    "Boom����!"


    Suddenly, a massive pce rose from the ground, surrounded by an eerie aura, as if it were from the underworld.


    "The Netherworld Wheel Pce?" Tiao''s eyes lit up.


    "Yes, the same feng shui array I used when we fought," the y Bodhisattva nodded.


    As the enormous Wheel Pce appeared, a gray region emerged in the east, and the ground forming a circle around the pce began to slowly rotate. As it turned, the gray region in the east gradually shifted to the south.


    Seeing this, Tiao smiled with a sense of satisfaction, as if he already knew the oue.


    On a distant southern mountain peak, the group of Great Thousand World visitors watched a young man casting spells not far away.


    The young man held several water-like threads in his hand, connected to the massive flood before him.


    "Are you trying to resist my water?" the young man sneered, his fingers moving deftly, causing the water threads to twist and churn the flood with greater ferocity.


    Suddenly, the gray mist from the Wheel Pce extended toward the flood, wrapping around the water and beginning to neutralize its force. The floodwaters, which had seemed unstoppable, began to slow, as if losing their momentum.


    The ck-robed figures observed with intense interest, knowing that this battle of magical power and strategy was just beginning.


    "How is it going, Lei Jiutian?" the leader, the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts, frowned.


    "Almost there. My derivative world is closing in on Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Once it''s enveloped, Dazhen will be at our mercy," Lei Jiutian replied.


    "Hmm, but be cautious. Dazhen also has feng shui masters," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts warned.


    "I saw that. There''s a pce over there, shrouded in yin energy. cing an underworld pce in the yang world? Such a grave mistake. It shows howcking their feng shui knowledge is in this Small Thousand World," Lei Jiutian sneered.


    The floodwaters continued to rush towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court. As they neared the y Bodhisattva''s array, the gray region from the east began to intersect with the flood.


    A strange phenomenon urred. Wherever the gray region touched, the water began to flow backward, as if it was afraid of the gray area.


    "What''s happening? What is that?" Lei Jiutian''s pupils contracted.


    But the next scene made Lei Jiutian even more rmed. The gray region seemed to contaminate the water, turning it murky and polluted.


    "Whoosh!"


    The strange murkiness shot towards Lei Jiutian. His eyes widened in horror as the murkiness reached him through the water threads he controlled.


    "What is this?" Lei Jiutian gasped in fear.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts and the others stepped back.


    "Ah! It''s life contamination!" Lei Jiutian screamed.


    As Lei Jiutian screamed, the others retreated further, watching in horror as his hair turned white and his once smooth skin became wrinkled and aged.


    Life contamination, a dreaded technique used by the y Bodhisattva and Tiao in their first battle. It could corrupt a person''s destiny, aging Lei Jiutian rapidly. He couldn''t escape its grasp.


    Lei Jiutian''s eyes bulged as he realized his fate. In a desperate move, he unleashed his fury.


    "Explode!"


    "Boom����!"


    A massive explosion rocked the area as Lei Jiutian detonated his derivative world. The gray area of life contamination dissipated in the st, but Lei Jiutian paid a steep price, copsing immediately afterward.


    No one dared to help him, fearing contamination. Once youthful, Lei Jiutian had turned into a withered old man, unable to move.


    The others gathered around.


    "Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts, I... I broke their feng shui array, but I''ve been contaminated. Use ''Purifying Dew'' to cleanse me. Quick, I only have half a stick of incense''s worth of time left. I know you have it. Please, I beg you!" Lei Jiutian''s old, trembling voice pleaded.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts looked at him coldly and shook his head. "Sorry, I don''t have it."


    "You!" Lei Jiutian looked at him in terror, his chest heaving until he stopped moving altogether, dying prematurely from rage.


    No one showed any pity. Before joining forces, they had been strangers, with no bonds of affection.


    "Alright, now that their feng shui array is broken, the rest will be easy," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said, narrowing his eyes as he gazed into the distance.

 Chapter 768: The Four-Sign Array

    <h4>Chapter 768: The Four-Sign Array</h4>


    "Alright, since their feng shui array is broken, things will be easier now!" The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts squinted his eyes, gazing into the distance.


    "Then, please make your move, Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts," the others urged.


    "Hmm!" The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts nodded.


    With a hand gesture, he sent a spell shooting into the sky, exploding into eighteen beams of light that radiated in all directions.


    At the South Heavenly Gate, the y Bodhisattva took a deep breath and said, "Everyone, I have broken their feng shui array, and mine is also broken. Now, it''s up to all of you!"


    The ministers nodded, but many gave the y Bodhisattva a lingering look. Tiao, in particr, noticed that the y Bodhisattva had not used his full strength. It was clear he could have set up another feng shui array if he wanted to, but he chose to forgo the opportunity.


    Suddenly, Tiao''s pupils contracted as he realized the deeper meaning behind the y Bodhisattva''s actions. It wasn''t that the y Bodhisattvacked the ability to defend further; it was that he had be more attuned to the ways of the world after countless experiences. Defending the empire not only protected the emperor but also rued great merit.


    Everyone seemed harmonious because the emperor''s presencemanded respect. Yet, each of them was a proud and unruly figure. Standing out too much wouldn''t be wise.


    For the first time, Tiao looked at the y Bodhisattva with admiration. He wasn''t the only one who noticed; many others did too, but none spoke up.


    In the distance, a red light shot into the sky and then dispersed in all directions. The ministers watched intently.


    Suddenly, from the surrounding mountains and forests, arge number of demon beasts emerged. They soared into the sky,ing from all directions. There were mountain cat ns, leopard ns, sea shark ns, jackal ns, and toad ns��countless demon beasts.


    The demon beasts of the Divine Land were numerous and usually allied within their own factions. Why were they now converging together? And all of them were powerful; based on their sizes, they were at least at the Nascent Soul stage, with some even reaching the Heavenly Realm.


    Among them were the toad demons from the Longevity Realm and two other supreme demon ns. They surrounded Lingxiao Heavenly Court from all directions.


    The sheer number of these powerful demon beasts exceeded ten thousand, and they each took out a strange jade stone, casting it into the void. The jade stones disappeared upon contact with the void.


    "Activate the Ten Thousand Beasts Array!"


    From a distance, the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts performed a spell, and the ten thousand powerful demon beasts were enveloped in an endless white mist.


    A massive circr cloud region formed, like a deep well reaching from earth to heaven, with Lingxiao Heavenly Court at its center. The circr mist slowly rotated, spinning faster and faster, and began to contract towards the center.


    In an instant, Lingxiao Heavenly Court was as if ced in the eye of a vortex. The surrounding winds intensified, pressing towards the center.


    "What is this?" Yin Luori frowned.


    Everyone at the South Heavenly Gate watched the vortex-like array.


    Meanwhile, the distant guests from the Great Thousand World saw a different scene.


    The array contracted towards the center, shattering the space it passed through, leaving behind a quickly regenerating region of ck holes.


    "Is this the Ten Thousand Beasts Array? How can a few jade stones have such power?" one of the men beside the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts eximed in shock.


    "This array draws power from the very essence of the world. The jade stones are mere catalysts," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts replied coldly.


    As the array continued to shrink, the ministers within Lingxiao Heavenly Court braced themselves for the impending sh. The y Bodhisattva, Tiao, and the others prepared for the worst, knowing that this battle would determine the fate of Dazhen.


    "Heh, jade stones? This array contains four ''Heavenly Immortal Artifacts,'' ten thousand demon beasts, and three Heavenly Extreme Realm demon beasts. In this Small Thousand World, no one can withstand it. The first step is to crush Lingxiao Heavenly Court!" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said grimly.


    Hearing his words, the others looked at him in surprise.


    It was because of the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts'' notorious reputation that they agreed to follow his lead. Despite their initial reluctance, they knew that cooperation required a leader. The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts'' reputation as a fearsome figure made him their choice, though they didn''t fully respect him until now.


    Four Heavenly Immortal Artifacts��what a concept! Even true immortals found it difficult to possess one, yet the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts had brought out four just to set up an array. This was extravagant and demonstrated his terrifying power. Though only an Earth Immortal, his notoriety came from having killed more than a handful of true immortals.


    "You gathered so many demon beasts?" someone asked.


    "As the ''Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts,'' I naturally have ways to find the supreme demon beasts of the world. Besides, it took ten years to gather them all. Was it really that difficult?" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts replied with a cold smile.


    The others nodded, not pressing for details on his methods, and continued to watch.


    The ferocious Ten Thousand Beasts Array pressed towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court. At the South Heavenly Gate, Yin Luori flew forward and struck the array with a powerful palm.


    "Boom����!"


    The space shattered, but the array did not tremble and continued its advance. Yin Luori frowned and returned to the South Heavenly Gate.


    "This array is unusual," Yin Luori said.


    "This is a powerful array called the ''Ten Thousand Beasts Array.'' It requires four Heavenly Immortal Artifacts to set up. You can''t break it," Wang Ku said, shaking his head.


    "Is it really that strong?" Yi Yan frowned.


    "Yes, it''s like being besieged by four Heavenly Immortals. And because of the array, its power is not suppressed by the Small Thousand World. It''s truly four Heavenly Immortals, unsuppressed," Wang Ku said seriously.


    Unsuppressed Heavenly Immortals? Hearing this, everyone''s pupils contracted.


    "That strong? The emperor is ascending to the celestial title, the empresses and princes are guarding at the Hall of Longevity. What should we do?" Yin Luori looked at Wang Ku.


    "Isn''t there the Four-Sign Array? If we set it up, it will surely hold," Wang Ku said.


    "The Four-Sign Array?" Hao Meili looked puzzled.


    Everyone turned to Hao Meili and the little golden dragon on her shoulder.


    "Hao Meili, we need your dragon n for an array. Can you help?" Yi Yan asked.


    "Setting up an array? I love it!" Hao Meili''s eyes lit up with excitement.


    "This is the Eastern Azure Dragon Array. The emperor gave me the array diagram. I will pass it to you temporarily," Yi Yan said, taking out a jade slip.


    "Great!" Hao Meili excitedly took the jade slip.


    "The Eastern Azure Dragon Array is in your hands now," Yi Yan said.


    "Don''t worry, I promised Zhong Shan to protect him with the dragon n. Setting up an array? I love it. Xiao Jin, gather your subordinates!" Hao Meili said excitedly.


    "Yin Supreme, you will lead the White Tiger Array in the west with a hundred tigers!" "Yes!" "Guish��, you will set up the ck Tortoise Array in the north with a hundred Xuanwu." "Understood!" "And what about the Vermilion Bird Array?" "I will ask Empress Tian Ling''er for the Vermilion Bird," Yi Yan said.


    It didn''t take long before the Ten Thousand Beasts Array closed in on Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The once vast white mist had shrunk to the surroundings of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, its range reduced but its power increased. Wherever the Ten Thousand Beasts Array passed, space shattered.


    But suddenly, from the east of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, a massive azure dragon phantom rose into the sky. In the south, a huge vermilion bird phantom appeared; in the west, a gigantic white tiger phantom; and in the north, a colossal ck tortoise phantom. Each phantom was asrge as Lingxiao Heavenly Court, exuding mysterious energies that formed arge circle, connecting the four mythical beasts and facing the Ten Thousand Beasts Array.


    "Boom����!"


    A thunderous explosion shattered countless spatial regions, creating a ring of ck holes that enclosed Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The two arrays vanished into the ring of ck holes, halting the advance of the Ten Thousand Beasts Array.


    From the distant south, the group of Great Thousand World visitors watched with furrowed brows.


    "Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts, what''s happening? Why did the Ten Thousand Beasts Array stop?" one person asked.


    "There''s resistance inside. What is in Lingxiao Heavenly Court that can stop my Ten Thousand Beasts Array?" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts wondered, frowning.


    "What should we do now?" "Wait and see!" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts replied, still frowning.


    In the distance to the east of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, a figure shot towards it at high speed.


    It was the Dragon n Supreme, Ao Sihai!


    Flying through the sky, Ao Sihai''s eyes were filled with anger.


    "Hao Meili, you took my dragon n away? Hmph, I refused the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts'' offer to attack Lingxiao Heavenly Court, giving Dazhen enough respect. The dragon n will never protect Dazhen as long as I live!" Ao Sihai sped towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    In no time, Ao Sihai reached the vicinity of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, hovering in the sky with a cold gaze fixed on the massive ring-like region.


    "Boom����!"


    A massive explosion shook the space around them. The ring of ck holes dissipated, revealing the scene inside.


    Four colossal mythical beast phantoms formed a protective circle around Lingxiao Heavenly Court. In the east, numerous demon beasts were crushed to pieces by a powerful impact.


    The eastern array broke, and the Azure Dragon phantom shattered the Ten Thousand Beasts Array.


    "Excellent!" Yi Yan shouted triumphantly from the South Heavenly Gate.


    In the distance, the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts'' pupils contracted.


    "The array is broken. What now?" someone beside him asked.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts took a deep breath, about to speak when suddenly...


    "All dragon n members, follow me back to the East Sea!" Ao Sihai''smanding voice rang out as he charged towards the Azure Dragon phantom.


    This sudden turn of events drew everyone''s attention.


    Seeing Ao Sihai, Yi Yan and the others frowned, their eyes filled with disdain.


    "Roar����!"


    With a collective roar, the dragons of the Azure Dragon Array dispersed, flying towards Ao Sihai. Despite everything, Ao Sihai was still the Dragon n Supreme.


    As the dragons retreated, the Four-Sign Array copsed on its own!

 Chapter 769: Sacred Realm of Shitian

    <h4>Chapter 769: Sacred Realm of Shitian</h4>


    "Ao Sihai, you''re courting death!" Hao Meili''s face turned red with anger as she red at Ao Sihai in mid-air.


    Suddenly, a fierce wind swept around Ao Sihai, filled with the eerie sounds of ghostly wails and wolf howls.


    "Boom����!"


    A thunderous explosion echoed in the sky, and a greenish hue spread above Ao Sihai as he unleashed his own sky. Despite this, the chilling wind continued to swirl around him, bringing an icy coldness that made snowkes fall.


    The dragons that had been flying towards Ao Sihai retreated, clearly intimidated by the terrifying cold.


    At the South Heavenly Gate, Yi Yan and the others looked at Hao Meili with curiosity, aware of her strange powers.


    "What are you doing? Come back!" came a little girl''s voice from beneath Hao Meili.


    It was the little golden dragon at her feet, which had not flown towards Ao Sihai.


    At the little golden dragon''s call, neen of the hundred dragons behind Ao Sihai returned, while the rest seemed hesitant, unsure of what to do.


    "Hao Meili, it''s you again. I haven''t pursued the matter of the Transcendent Seal, and now you..." Ao Sihai said coldly.


    "Boom����!"


    A sudden p of thunder interrupted Ao Sihai''s words, causing him to flinch and look skyward.


    "Crack."


    With a sharp sound, Ao Sihai''s neck twisted awkwardly, and he seemed unable to turn it back. His face changed dramatically.


    The thunder had ceased, but Ao Sihai''s reaction was peculiar. Why did he look so startled?


    Yi Yan, the y Bodhisattva, and the others quickly nced up but saw nothing unusual. Why was Ao Sihai making that expression?


    What they couldn''t know was that Ao Sihai had somehow twisted his neck��a near-impossible urrence for someone of his Heavenly Extreme Realm stature.


    "I promised Zhong Shan I would protect him. Ao Sihai, if you dare to cause trouble, I will..." Hao Meili began to threaten.


    "Meili!" the little golden dragon interrupted.


    "Xiao Jin, what is it? Are you going to plead for him again? Last time I spared him because of you!" Hao Meili frowned.


    "Let him go. He is, after all, the Dragon n Supreme, and he took care of me in the past. Besides, you spent those years in the Dragon Pce," the little golden dragon implored.


    Hao Meili furrowed her brows, took a deep breath, and red fiercely at Ao Sihai. "Fine, get out of my sight! But leave all the dragons here!"


    "Crack!" Ao Sihai finally managed to turn his neck back.


    "Ridiculous. How could dragon affairs be interfered with by outsiders? I came here to take all the dragons back. The dragon n is the national beast of Great Qin, not of Dazhen, and certainly not your pet, Hao Meili," Ao Sihai said sternly.


    "Meili, let them go," the little golden dragon urged.


    Hao Meili looked at the little golden dragon and then angrily at the distant group of dragons, her eyes filled with resentment.


    The dragons, sensing Hao Meili''s frightening anger, felt a sudden chill.


    "Remember what I taught you about the Eastern Azure Dragon Array. If any of you dare to speak of it, I curse you to die a painful death!" Hao Meili threatened coldly.


    "Roar!"


    The dragons hastily nodded in agreement.


    With the departure of the dragons, the Four-Sign Array disbanded on its own, leaving Lingxiao Heavenly Court vulnerable once again. The ministers and defenders watched with tension as the situation rapidly changed, knowing the next steps would be critical in defending against the formidable forces surrounding them.


    "Ao Sihai, you...!" Hao Meili began, but she was cut off by a surge of anger.


    "Leave!" Hao Meili shouted.


    "Boom����!"


    The sky erupted with endless lightning. Ao Sihai shivered, his body covered in cold sweat, and one of the dragons behind him coughed up blood. Ao Sihai looked at Hao Meili in shock.


    "Let''s go!" Ao Sihaimanded, quickly retreating with his dragons.


    Once they were away from Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the dragons were visibly terrified, and Ao Sihai was filled with suppressed rage.


    "Tell me, what did Hao Meili teach you? What did you encounter?" Ao Sihai demanded.


    The dragons hesitated, but a brave red dragon, after checking that Hao Meili wasn''t following, spoke up. "Supreme, Hao Meili taught us a powerful formation. The formation is..."


    "Look at yourself, Old Red!" another dragon shouted in rm.


    Everyone turned to see the red dragon''s body breaking out in countless pustules, his skin quickly rotting away.


    "Ugh!" The red dragon spat out a mouthful of foul blood, dying instantly and falling into a valley below, where his body dissolved into a pool of blood.


    The dragons backed away in terror, their hearts chilled to the core. Even Ao Sihai felt a shiver run through his body.


    "What is going on?" Ao Sihai swallowed hard, asking, but no dragon dared to speak, only shaking their heads in fear.


    "Dazhen? Hao Meili? This is too much. Let''s go to Great Qin and ask Ying to seek justice for the dragon n. Dazhen deceived the national beast of Great Qin, and Ying will not let this go!" Ao Sihai dered.


    With that, he led the dragons north towards Great Qin.


    While Ao Sihai''s arrival had been noticed by the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts from a distance, he couldn''t hear their conversation. All he saw was Ao Sihai unleashing his "sky," followed by the betrayal of a small golden dragon and then Ao Sihai''s retreat.


    "The Dragon n Supreme, Ao Sihai?" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts murmured.


    "A strange Small Thousand World!" one of his followers remarked, shaking his head.


    "The Ten Thousand Beasts Array is broken. No matter. Their array is also broken. Let''s proceed with the attack on Lingxiao Heavenly Court!" another suggested.


    "Agreed!" The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts nodded.


    A blue light shot towards the distance, signaling the broken array. Immediately, the ten thousand demon beasts roared and charged towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Guardian beasts of Dazhen, defend Lingxiao Heavenly Court!" Yi Yan ordered from the South Heavenly Gate.


    Though the Four-Sign Array was broken, the divine beasts remained. Phoenixes, Xuanwu, tigers, and countless wolves surged from Lingxiao Heavenly Court to meet the oing horde.


    Among the demon beasts, the toad demon watched from the South Heavenly Gate. Seeing the situation clearly, it noticed that Emperor Xuan Sha had not moved. Knowing the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts had a backup n and aware of Dazhen''s past victories over the Longevity Realm, the toad demon decided to quietly slip away, thus removing another major force from the battle.


    "Kill����!"


    With a shout, Zhao Suoxiang led arge army, wielding his spear, and charged out to join the fray. The battle between the demon beasts and the defenders of Dazhen intensified, each side fighting fiercely to gain the upper hand.


    Outside Lingxiao Heavenly Court, chaos erupted into a massive battle.


    From a distance, the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts observed. "It seems our previous n won''t work. Everyone, let''s move in. Capture Zhong Shan alive if possible; if not, kill him," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said, his eyes narrowing.


    "Understood!" The group nodded.


    With a swift motion, they all rushed towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Led by the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts, the five powerful figures headed straight for their target.


    As the Ten Thousand Beasts Array dissipated, four differently shapedrge des suddenly shot from the void, aiming at the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts. These were the ''Heavenly Immortal Artifacts,'' the treasures used to form the array.


    Seeing the powerful opponents approaching, Emperor Xuan Sha''s pupils contracted. He immediately recognized the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts at the center and lunged towards him, sending out a massive Skymaster Golden Wheel.


    "Boom����!"


    The Skymaster Golden Wheel collided with one of the Heavenly Immortal Artifacts. The sh sent the Skymaster Golden Wheel flying back, while the Heavenly Immortal Artifact de was also repelled.


    In the first exchange, neither weapon gained the upper hand.


    Next came the twobatants, Emperor Xuan Sha and the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts, each extending a powerful palm strike.


    "Boom����!"


    The collision of their palms shattered the void, creating a massive ck hole that enveloped both fighters. In that moment, neither gained an advantage.


    Emperor Xuan Sha''s pupils contracted, and the four ck-robed figures with the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts also showed signs of astonishment. They were surprised that someone could match the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts blow for blow. Who was this Emperor Xuan Sha?


    The surprise wasn''t limited to the ck-robed figures; even the powerful individuals at the South Heavenly Gate shared the same thoughts. Who could withstand Emperor Xuan Sha''s strike?


    "Don''t worry about me; continue!" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts ordered calmly.


    There was no hint of displeasure in his voice, only excitement at facing Emperor Xuan Sha.


    Three of the ck-robed figures flew towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court, while one paused, hovering high above.


    "Wolf n Supreme? Emperor Xuan Sha? Eleventh level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm? I haven''t encountered a wolf n genius like you in a long time. No, none of the past geniusespare to you. Come, let me see if you''re qualified to enter the ''Sacred Realm of Shitian''," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said with excitement.


    "Remove your hood. Are you so ashamed to show your face?" Emperor Xuan Sha said sternly.


    "Ashamed? Perhaps. If you can defeat me, you will see my true face. Let''s see if you, a once-in-a-lifetime wolf n genius, have what it takes to enter the Sacred Realm of Shitian!" The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts wielded tworge des, both Heavenly Immortal Artifacts.


    As he wielded the Heavenly Immortal Artifacts, a menacing aura emanated from him, pressing heavily on Emperor Xuan Sha.


    Emperor Xuan Sha narrowed his eyes, sensing the dangerous aura from the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts. Two Skymaster Golden Wheels appeared around him, ready for battle.


    Meanwhile, outside, the three ck-robed figures continued their charge towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    At the South Heavenly Gate, Wang Ku focused on one of them. His skeletal eyes glowed with a sudden red light.


    "Essence of Yin Qi? A pure essence in human form? What a great supplement!" Wang Ku said with excitement, rushing towards the figure.


    The battle for Lingxiao Heavenly Court had reached a critical point, with powerfulbatants shing fiercely and the fate of the empire hanging in the bnce.

 Chapter 770: Dazhen, Forest of Strong

    <h4>Chapter 770: Dazhen, Forest of Strong</h4>


    Within the ck hole, Emperor Xuan Sha was engaged in a fierce battle with the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts. The two Skymaster Golden Wheels orbited around Xuan Sha, leaving no openings in his defense. Opposite him, the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts wielded a pair ofrge des with a menacing and overwhelming force.


    Bothbatants moved at lightning speed, their figures barely visible to the naked eye. Their intense shes kept the ck hole from stabilizing for an entire hour.


    The tworge des in the hands of the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts seemed like meat grinders, exuding a fierce and frenzied aura. Every collision with the Skymaster Golden Wheels was equally matched, disying the ferocious nature of both weapons.


    These two supreme fighters battled fiercely. After an hour ofbat, Xuan Sha''s clothes had begun to tear in ces, while the ck robe of the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts was simrly tattered, with numerous rips exposing his body, and even his hood had been torn off during the fight.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts was a sinister-looking man with heavily lined eyes and a pale, handsome face. His eyes alone radiated a fierce intent.


    A fierce and domineering aura emanated from him.


    Xuan Sha''s eyes narrowed. He too was a formidable and ruthless figure, one who showed no fear when encountering another of his kind. Each bout in their battle showcased his resilience and ferocity.


    Xuan Sha paid no mind to the external world. Zhong Shan''s ministers were shrouded in mystery, some even beyond hisprehension. Did he need to worry about the remaining four ck-robed figures? Especially with Zhong Shan''s many hidden strategies. No, he only needed to focus on defeating the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts.


    "It''s been years since anyone made me fight seriously. But when I get serious, there''s only death left behind!" Xuan Sha sneered.


    Suddenly, a fierce aura erupted around Xuan Sha. His eyes turned green, bing the eyes of a wolf, emitting a cold, deadly light.


    Xuan Sha was ready to go all out.


    "Is that so?" The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts responded with excitement.


    His excitement was peculiar, not for some anticipated sess, but for the thrill of facing Xuan Sha''s ferocity.


    Suddenly, the eyes of the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts also emitted a soul-stealing cold light. His already eerie eyes turned green, radiating deadly intent.


    "You''re from the wolf n too?" Xuan Sha''s pupils contracted.


    "If you beat me, I''ll tell you," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said with a sinister smile.


    Xuan Sha''s eyes steadied, and he charged at the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts with explosive speed.


    Outside, the three other powerful figures rushed in different directions.


    Wang Ku confronted one of them. This ck-robed figure had an eerie ability. As an Emperor Realm Phoenix approached, the figure''s body suddenly erged to a hundred zhang, but it seemed to turn into a shadowy form, a phantom that the phoenix passed through as if he were made of ck smoke.


    After the phoenix passed through, the figure shrank back to its original size and sped towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court, evading several intercepting warriors along the way. But none could touch him.


    Until Wang Ku suddenly blocked his path.


    "Boom����!"


    Wang Ku''s bronze throne crashed into the ck-robed figure, pinning him against the void.


    The battle continued with unmatched ferocity as powerful beings shed, each showcasing their unique abilities and relentless determination. The chaos around Lingxiao Heavenly Court only grew as both sides fought with everything they had.


    The ck-robed figure rapidly shifted into a ghostly form, but no matter how he transformed, Wang Ku''s bronze throne firmly suppressed him.


    "A Yin Qi essence, transformed into human shape? What a rare find, even in the Great Thousand World. It seems fate has brought you to me," Wang Ku remarked, looking at the trapped ck-robed figure.


    "How do you know? Who are you?" the ck-robed figure asked in terror.


    "I''ve absorbed Yin Qi essence before. None have ever escaped me. Absorbing you will heal my wounds significantly," Wang Ku replied with a faint smile.


    Wang Ku, in his skeletal form, sniffed the air. From beneath the bronze throne, two streams of ck Qi emerged from the ck-robed figure, flowing into Wang Ku''s hood.


    "No, no, no����!"


    The ck-robed figure struggled frantically, twisting and changing his form, but he couldn''t escape the massive bronze throne''s grip, being mercilessly absorbed by Wang Ku.


    Meanwhile, Hao Meili confronted another ck-robed figure. The person seemed fearful, as if they had suffered greatly at Hao Meili''s hands during the previous hour.


    "You dare insult me? And my master?" Hao Meili''s face was red with anger.


    "I didn''t!" The ck-robed figure took a step back.


    "I heard you! You insulted my master! You insulted the old man! You insulted him, and I won''t let you off!" Hao Meili shouted.


    As she shouted, a fierce wind arose around her, and gues quickly spread through the area.


    "I didn''t. I only said, ''What kind of person taught you to be so reckless?'' That''s not an insult! It''s not an insult!" the ck-robed figure cried in fear.


    "I don''t care, I don''t care!" Hao Meili shouted, her curses and gues intensifying.


    Another ck-robed figure faced Mr. Corpse. This figure took out several puppet-like humanoid weapons. Mr. Corpse smiled faintly, leading him away from the South Heavenly Gate to battle elsewhere.


    The war raged on, chaos spreading in all directions. Despite the disorder, Dazhen seemed to have the upper hand. The ten thousand demon beasts summoned by the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts appeared somewhat restrained.


    High above, the ck-robed figure who had been observing the battle removed his hood, revealing a handsome face. He coldly watched the scene below.


    Suddenly, he took out a ck crystal core, intricately cut like a beautiful ck diamond.


    Yi Yan and the others had been keeping an eye on him. When he took out the ck crystal core, they frowned.


    "What is that?" Yi Yan asked.


    "I''m not sure, but I have a bad feeling about it," Tiao said, frowning.


    "Oh?" The others looked at Tiao.


    "In some ancient knowledge passed down to me, there''s mention of something simr. It''s called a ''Heavenly Demon Core,'' formed from the condensed aura of the Heavenly Demon Domain in the Great Thousand World. It has thirty-six thousand facets and contains numerous Heavenly Demons of various levels. There are people in the Great Thousand World who specialize in dealing with Heavenly Demons, controlling them with secret techniques. Could that be a Heavenly Demon Core?" Tiao said, shocked.


    "How many demons could it contain?" Yi Yan asked, frowning.


    "I''m not sure, but likely a lot," Tiao replied.


    "Everyone, be on guard and prepare for the demons!" Yi Yan ordered immediately.


    The ck-robed figure in the sky began chanting an incantation. The ck crystal core glowed ominously, and cracks began to form on its surface. A dark, swirling mist emerged, filled with malevolent energy.


    Everyone nodded in agreement, and some immediately sat cross-legged, preparing for the impending arrival of the Heavenly Demons.


    "y Bodhisattva, please ry this message to all of Dazhen''s defenders," Yi Yan instructed.


    The y Bodhisattva nodded and set to work.


    High above, the ck-robed figure was nowpletely enveloped in ck Qi, using it as a means to resist the influence of the Heavenly Demons. Chanting continuously, his eyes turnedpletely white, enabling him to see the emerging demons clearly.


    "Go, wreak havoc among the wolves, tigers, phoenixes, Xuanwu, dragons, and humans!" the ck-robed figure said excitedly.


    Soon enough, some phoenixes and Xuanwu began acting erratically. They either stopped fighting or went berserk, allowing the demon beasts to ughter them.


    The tide of battle shifted suddenly.


    In front of the Hall of Longevity, the empresses and crown princes watched the sky, waiting for Zhong Shan''s ascension. Among them was a pce-dressed woman, who also gazed at Zhong Shan. She was Phantom Consort, though invisible to others and unheard even if she shouted Zhong Shan''s name.


    Watching the sky, Phantom Consort''s eyes filled with blessings for her only friend. Suddenly, her expression changed, and she turned towards the south.


    Seeing something, she smiled with joy and swiftly flew towards the South Heavenly Gate.


    Outside the South Heavenly Gate, Dazhen''s divine beasts were being pushed back, with the demon beasts gaining the upper hand. Dazhen''s beasts seemed to be in a state of frenzy.


    "Kill����!"


    The battlefield echoed with shouts.


    "This can''t go on!" Shui Wuhen frowned.


    "General Zhao Suoxiang!" Yi Yan suddenly called.


    Zhao Suoxiang, who was engaged with the demon beasts, immediately flew over.


    "Mr. Yi?" Zhao Suoxiang asked, puzzled.


    "That man is the culprit. Please lead your troops to kill him. If he falls, we will win!" Yi Yan said.


    Zhao Suoxiang looked at the ck-robed figure in the sky.


    "Understood!" Zhao Suoxiang nodded.


    "Iron Spear Battalion, follow me!" Zhao Suoxiangmanded, shooting towards the sky.


    A group of elite soldiers, breaking away from their current battles, followed Zhao Suoxiang.


    Zhao Suoxiang soon reached the high altitude.


    "I am Zhao Suoxiang of Dazhen. Who are you?" Zhao Suoxiang demanded, pointing his spear.


    "I am the leader of the Heavenly Demon Sect..." the ck-robed figure began to say, but was interrupted as the Heavenly Demon Core suddenly disappeared from his hand. Startled, he looked around and saw a ck shadow speeding towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court. It moved too fast, reaching the edge in an instant.


    It was Phantom Consort. Upon seeing the Heavenly Demon Core, she had swallowed it but couldn''t digest it immediately.


    As she reached Lingxiao Heavenly Court, she let out a sharp cry. The numerous demons that had possessed Dazhen''s divine beasts quickly abandoned them and flew towards her.


    "Thieves! You scoundrels!" the leader of the Heavenly Demon Sect shouted in fury, his body flickering as he tried to chase the ck shadow.


    "Iron Spear Formation!" Zhao Suoxiang shouted.


    "Roar����!"


    The Iron Spear Battalion''s warriors roared in unison, forming a battle formation to intercept the leader of the Heavenly Demon Sect.


    The leader of the Heavenly Demon Sect found himself blocked by the formidable Iron Spear Battalion. Meanwhile, the freed divine beasts of Dazhen began to regain theirposure, turning the tide of battle once more in favor of Dazhen. The conflict raged on with renewed vigor as both sides fought fiercely for control of Lingxiao Heavenly Court.

 Chapter 771: Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty

    <h4>Chapter 771: Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty</h4>


    After an entire day of battle, the situation outside Lingxiao Heavenly Court had be clear.


    Mr. Corpse returned victorious from his fight against the puppet master. No one asked for details, as the result was evident to all.


    Wang Ku''s bronze throne hadpletely suppressed the Yin Qi essence. Only the ck-robed figure''s clothes remained, which were soon scattered by the wind as the Yin Qi essence was fully absorbed by Wang Ku. Feeling rejuvenated, Wang Ku retreated to his residence in Lingxiao Heavenly Court to begin refining the absorbed energy. This would greatly elerate his recovery.


    As for the Heavenly Demon Sect''s leader, losing the Heavenly Demon Core sent him into a frenzy. The sect, named after the "Heavenly Demons," relied heavily on this core. Without it, their strength would be severely diminished.


    Zhao Suoxiang led the Iron Spear Battalion in forming the Iron Spear Formation, trapping the sect leader. Their morale was high, and their momentum was unstoppable.


    The divine beasts of Dazhen, no longer influenced by the Heavenly Demons, regained the upper hand against the myriad of demon beasts. Reinforcements from Lingxiao Heavenly Court continuously joined the battle, while each demon beast killed meant one less opponent for Dazhen.


    Emperor Xuan Sha and the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts had been fighting non-stop for an entire day and night. The ck hole in the sky, where they battled, showed no signs of recovery, indicating the ongoing intensity of their sh. At the South Heavenly Gate, the ministers watched the distant ck hole, taking deep breaths.


    "The opponents are formidable," the y Bodhisattva remarked, frowning.


    Everyone nodded in agreement.


    Above Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan, transformed into a neen-wed luck dragon, was enveloped in boundless golden light. After more than a day, Zhong Shan could feel his celestial rank increasing.


    "Whoosh!"


    In a sh of golden light, Zhong Shan returned to human form and descended from the sky, leaving the luck dragon within the cocoon of light. As he slowly descended, everyone watched with solemn expressions.


    Tian Ling''er wanted to rush forward but was held back by Gan Baobao, as the ceremony was not yetplete.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes remained closed as he descended. Suddenly, the nine-dragon throne from the Hall of Longevity flew out, positioning itself behind Zhong Shan, who then sat on it, floating in mid-air.


    With the Fang Tian Imperial Seal in one hand and the List of Deities in the other, Zhong Shan appeared to be in deep contemtion. The celestial rank, the terrifying luck of heaven and earth, and the immense merits flowed into him.


    A two hundredfold increase in cultivation speed! The influx of luck and merit was tremendous.


    Zhong Shan sensed that without the merit counterbnce, his cultivation speed would be three hundredfold. However, because he cultivated with merit as well, it was reduced to two hundredfold.


    But Zhong Shan didn''t mind. The red pearl on the Fang Tian Imperial Seal already granted him twice the speed of an average heavenly dynasty emperor.


    Two hundredfold meant that five hundred years of cultivation for Zhong Shan equaled one hundred thousand years for others. What more could a heavenly dynasty emperor wish for?


    Additionally, the upgrade in his celestial rank and the wash of immense luck and merit had significantly enhanced Zhong Shan''s cultivation. He had ascended from the initial fifth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm to its peak.


    Although many emperors might not value such incremental gains, Zhong Shan did. Every bit of cultivation increase was precious to him.


    As for his cultivation technique, the Hongluan Celestial Scripture, it remained at the seventh level, unchanged.


    Unexpectedly, the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering technique also broke through to the seventh level, significantly enhancing Zhong Shan''s strength.


    Zhong Shan opened his eyes.


    Suddenly, his eyes emitted a torrent of purple-gold light, shooting straight into the sky.


    "Boom����!"


    The golden light around the luck dragon exploded outward, spreading across the heavens. The golden sky rapidly extended in all directions, bing less distinct with each passing moment. Within just nine breaths, the originally brilliant golden sky had faded to the point where the golden color was barely discernible.


    This golden light spread throughout all of Dazhen''s territory, marking it as Zhong Shan''s sovereign domain. From now on, the heavens would answer to Zhong Shan alone.


    High in the sky, the enormous neen-wed luck dragon descended into the sea of luck clouds, thrashing about as if in pain. The dragon''s head showed signs of struggle.


    "Rumble����!"


    After some time, the dragon stood up, clutching the sea of luck clouds with its neen ws, and roared skyward.


    "Roar����!"


    Following the roar, the dragon''s head began to tremble, increasingly fast.


    "Whoosh!"


    To everyone''s astonishment, a second pair of dragon horns appeared on its head. No, it wasn''t just horns��another dragon head was forming.


    A two-headed dragon?


    And it wasn''t finished. A second dragon tail suddenly emerged from the original one''s tail.


    "Roar����! Roar����!"


    The bizarre two-headed, two-tailed dragon continued to howl in agony.


    "Boom����!"


    The entire sea of luck clouds erupted in a furious roar, akin to a massive explosion.


    Everyone watched the sky in shock, wondering what was happening.


    After a stick of incense''s time, the infinite luck slowly calmed down.


    The two-headed, two-tailed dragon vanished, reced by two identical neen-wed luck dragons. However, these two dragons seemed severely weakened, staring at each other.


    One was the original luck dragon, and the other, identical in every way, had a red cinnabar mark on its forehead.


    The ministers were stunned. The original luck dragon had split into two. What was going on? This phenomenon had never urred in any heavenly dynasty''s history. Did the emperor intend to create a pair, one male and one female?


    The ministers were speechless, while Zhong Shan remained unperturbed, as if everything was going ording to his n.


    The two luck dragons opened their mouths, absorbing vast amounts of merit and luck from below. In no time, their weakened state improved significantly, and the two neen-wed luck dragons regained their vigor.


    "Roar����! Roar����!"


    Both dragons roared simultaneously, then quickly entwined around each other. From their bodies, an explosion of golden light radiated outward.


    Zhong Shan threw the List of Deities into the sky.


    "Boom!"


    The sky exploded with light once again. The golden glow dissipated, revealing a grand scene above the sea of luck clouds. Countless luck dragons flew in from all directions, though much smallerpared to the neen-wed luck dragons, ranging from five to nine ws. At the center was a vastly magnified luck court, with numerous luck deities standing upright. Leading the group was the sovereign of Dazhen, Zhong Shan, followed by the empresses, crown princes, the national beast wolves, and a host of ministers.


    In an instant, all the civil and military officials felt a surge in their own luck. The tremendous increase in fortune brought a flush of excitement to their faces.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor!" the ministers bowed in unison.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor!" echoed throughout Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    It seemed as though every citizen in every city of Dazhen could hear the voice from Lingxiao Heavenly Court and bowed in unison.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor, long live the Emperor!" the citizens of Dazhen roared, the sound resonating throughout thend. The waves of cheers caused the sea of luck clouds to surge continuously, celebrating universally.


    Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty! Emperor Zhong Shan!


    The entire Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty roared with excitement and joy, a sentiment that spread to the other two dynasties.


    In the Great Qin Dynasty, the court meeting paused. Ying and his ministers walked out of the hall, looking south with mixed expressions.


    In the Taishou Heavenly Dynasty, the air was filled with fluctuating luck. Kong Lietian narrowed his eyes, looking southeast with a gloomy expression.


    Outside the South Heavenly Gate!


    With Zhao Suoxiang''s mighty shout, the powerful Iron Spear Formation finally beheaded the leader of the Heavenly Demon Sect!


    The demon beasts that had attacked from all directions saw Dazhen officially ascend to a heavenly dynasty and many fled in fear. Those that remained fought with even more difficulty. At the moment Dazhen ascended, all of Dazhen''s divine beasts felt their strength amplify, breaking the siege around Lingxiao Heavenly Courtpletely!


    Only one battlefield remained��the enormous ck hole.


    Emperor Xuan Sha fought the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts!


    With Dazhen''s sessful ascension, Zhong Shan seemed to gain a heavenly perspective, quickly assessing the situation in all directions.


    Zhong Shan retrieved the List of Deities from the sky, stepped back into the Hall of Longevity on the dragon throne, and then flew straight to the South Heavenly Gate.


    The ministers followed closely behind.


    Zhong Shan arrived first at the South Heavenly Gate.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty!" everyone at the South Heavenly Gate bowed.


    Zhong Shan nodded and looked up at the ck hole.


    "Do you know who the opponent is?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Your Majesty, before I killed an enemy, I interrogated him. The one fighting Emperor Xuan Sha is called the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts, a notorious figure from outside our Small Thousand World. He is an Earth Immortal but has killed more than a handful of True Immortals. He possesses at least four Heavenly Immortal Artifacts. He organized the attack on Lingxiao Heavenly Court," Mr. Corpse reported respectfully.


    "An Earth Immortal? The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Your Majesty, can Emperor Xuan Sha handle him?" Shui Wuhen asked, concerned.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha''s full strength has never been revealed. Do not worry about him. Just wait and see," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    "Shui Jing, draft a promation. Announce to the world that Dazhen has ascended, and offer a bounty for all escaping demon beasts who invaded during our ascension," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"

 Chapter 772: Gathering of the Greatest in History

    <h4>Chapter 772: Gathering of the Greatest in History</h4>


    At the South Heavenly Gate, Zhong Shan led his ministers, patiently awaiting the triumphant return of Emperor Xuan Sha.


    The ck hole remained for an entire day before it slowly dissipated, revealing the two peerless warriors within. Neither had perished, but their clothing was heavily damaged.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts now had four arms, each holding a fierce-looking de, exuding an aura of overwhelming malice. Surrounding Emperor Xuan Sha were not just two but three identical Skymaster Golden Wheels, radiating a terrifying murderous intent from his wolf eyes.


    "Speak," Emperor Xuan Sha demanded sternly.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts took a deep breath and said, "I know you have more tricks up your sleeve, and I didn''t go all out either."


    "I know. Now exin your intentions. As a member of the wolf n, you can''t establish an empire, yet you lead an assault on Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Why?" Emperor Xuan Sha asked coldly.


    "It''s you!" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts replied with a wicked smile.


    "What do you mean?" Emperor Xuan Sha''s eyes shed with a cold light.


    "I''m here for you, the supreme of the wolf n. This Small Thousand World hasn''t seen a wolf ascend in thirty thousand years. The wolf n has been in decline for that long, yet such a genius appears out of nowhere. I found you!" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said with excitement.


    "You still haven''t answered me. Why attack Lingxiao Heavenly Court?" Emperor Xuan Sha demanded again.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts nced at Lingxiao Heavenly Court, frowning at the sight of the overwhelming luck, then turned his gaze to Zhong Shan at the South Heavenly Gate, his eyes filled with curiosity.


    "Those idiots I sent before not onlycked strength but also vision and intelligence. Such people are cannon fodder no matter where they go. However, they allowed me to gauge your capabilities. Not only are you incredibly powerful, but you also have a keen eye. This emperor of yours is very unique, uniquely strange. This proves that you are not only a ferocious person but also someone with far-reaching vision. I am now certain that you qualify to enter the ''Shitian Sacred Realm''," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said.


    "Hah, Shitian Sacred Realm? Not interested!" Emperor Xuan Sha scoffed.


    "You will be," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said with a sinister smile.


    Emperor Xuan Sha stared coldly at the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts looked towards the South Heavenly Gate again, his brows furrowing as he observed something.


    "Descendants of immortals?" his pupils contracted.


    Emperor Xuan Sha''s brows furrowed slightly.


    Zhong Shan, observing from afar, also heard the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts'' words and felt his heart skip a beat, especially since the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts was looking at his empresses.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha, bring the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts over here," Zhong Shan called out.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts gave Zhong Shan a curious look, then smiled wickedly and flew over.


    Hended directly at the South Heavenly Gate, and this time, Emperor Xuan Sha did not stop him but remained vignt, following closely.


    As soon as hended, the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts stared intently at Bei Qingsi.


    "So simr, too simr!" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said, taking a deep breath.


    "Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts turned to look at Zhong Shan, a wicked smile on his face.


    "Are you Zhong Shan?" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts asked.


    "What is your purpose here?" Zhong Shan responded directly.


    "Rest assured, I am not here for you. I intend to take Emperor Xuan Sha with me," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts stated solemnly.


    "Hah!" Zhong Shanughed disdainfully.


    "What makes you think you can take me?" Emperor Xuan Sha sneered.


    "The Shitian Sacred Realm is the holynd of the wolf n, a ce all wolves aspire to enter. However, not all wolves are allowed in. I am a Wolf Seeker of the Shitian Sacred Realm, and I have the authority to decide who can enter," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said sternly.


    "And if I choose not to go?" Emperor Xuan Sha replied coldly.


    "Not go? Do you understand what you''re saying? Do you n to stay in Dazhen forever? How long do you think Dazhen willst? Even if you conquer the world and eventually open the heavens, what then? Do you know what''s waiting for you outside this Small Thousand World? The moment the heavens open, everything will turn to dust," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts scoffed.


    "What do you mean?" Zhong Shan asked gravely.


    "What do I mean? Haha, for instance, her," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts pointed at Bei Qingsi. "She is a descendant of an immortal, isn''t she? She must have inherited some kind of bloodline."


    "So what? There are many descendants of immortals," Zhong Shan replied sternly.


    "Many, you say? Haha, ordinary immortals have no influence on their descendants. There is no bloodline inheritance unless the ancestor reached the ''Great Immortal'' realm, and even then, it''s rare. However, at higher realms, the chance of bloodline inheritance increases significantly," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts exined.


    "Great Immortal?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    Mr. Corpse immediately exined, "Your Majesty, above the ''Heavenly Immortal'' realm is the ''Great Immortal'' realm. Generally, the ruler of a holy court must be at least at the ''Great Immortal'' realm. Great Immortal is a critical threshold. Typically, achieving this level allows one to create supernatural abilities, with varying degrees of power. Additionally, reaching the Great Immortal realm increases the likelihood of passing down abilities to descendants."


    "You seem to know quite a lot," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts remarked, giving Mr. Corpse a peculiar look.


    Mr. Corpse''s eyes shed with a cold light, prompting the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts to withdraw his gaze with a frown.


    "What awaits me outside the Small Thousand World?" Zhong Shan demanded, fixing his gaze on the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts.


    After another nce at Mr. Corpse, the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts turned back to Zhong Shan, his face breaking into a sinister smile. "What awaits? Nearby is the Taichu Holy Court, along with numerous forces from the Great Thousand World, and countless powerful beings who left the Small Thousand World. Many of them are Great Immortal level or higher. Her ancestor is one of them. I have met her; she looks very much like you!"


    "She has returned?" Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed.


    "Her? It''s not just her. All the former ''number one in the world'' figures of this Small Thousand World have returned. It''s quite lively outside the Small Thousand World. The ce is teeming with powerful figures. Ten years ago, Jian Ao ascended during a time when there were few strong individuals around, which is why his ascension didn''t cause much of a stir. Had he ascended in the presence of those Great Immortals, it wouldn''t have been mere foolsing down. Even if the Great Immortals themselves couldn''t enter, their disciples certainly wouldn''t hold back," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts exined.


    "All those former number one figures have returned? How do they know?" Zhong Shan asked, raising an eyebrow.


    "The heavens are breaking. Those immortals born and raised in the Small Thousand World can naturally sense it and are returning in droves. They just can''t enter yet. Once the heavens open, how much power will Dazhen have left to face these peerless warriors?" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beastsughed.


    Being the number one in the world is no easy feat.


    Ying, the number one in the world eight thousand years ago!


    Tian Shenzi, the number one in the world ten thousand years ago!


    Gu Shentong, even the number one in the world a few hundred years ago!


    These so-called "number one in the world" figures are anything but simple. After countless ages, do you think those who have left the Small Thousand World are any less formidable? The outside world is teeming with powerful beings, fraught with dangers at every turn!


    "So what?" Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    "So what? Do you think they''reing back just to witness your grand opening of the heavens? Even if Dazhen manages to open the heavens, it will inevitably be torn apart!" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts retorted with disdain.


    "Oh? Are you so sure?" Hao Meili suddenly interjected with a faint smile, as if she had a solution in mind.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts turned to look at Hao Meili, his pupils narrowing before he smiled. "Your ancestor was ''Hao Tian'', correct?"


    "So what? Do you know Hao Tian?" Hao Meili asked, her brow furrowing.


    "Of course, he is a remarkable figure. He has established a significant presence outside, waiting for the heavens to open so he can retrieve something from his descendants," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said.


    "Him? Hmph!" Hao Meili''s eyes shed with a cold light, clearly realizing it was the 108 Immortal Tablets.


    "Moreover, Dazhen''s troubles are not limited to just opening the heavens. You have more immediate concerns," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts added with a sinister smile.


    Zhong Shan listened carefully. Despite the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts'' cryptic tone, Zhong Shan could sense the truth in his words. The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts believed Dazhen was doomed and saw no need to lie, especially given his status as a Wolf Seeker of the Shitian Sacred Realm.


    "Immediate concerns?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "Just two months ago, I visited the underworld. Dazhen is unique, with dual realms of yin and yang. However, I encountered a group of powerful beings, individuals who seem to be seeking you," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said.


    "Oh?"


    "Your empress is of the Tian family, correct?" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts suddenly looked at Tian Ling''er.


    "So what?"


    "That group of people imed to be from the Tian family, but they have just arrived from the Great Thousand World. A group of elites from the Tian family, none of whom are weaker than I am!" the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts exined with a smile.


    People from the Tian family in the Great Thousand World? Tian Ling''er looked worried, and Tian Lao''s pupils contracted.


    Zhong Shan stared at the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts, his brow tightly furrowed, remaining silent.


    The Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts nced at Zhong Shan, then turned back to Emperor Xuan Sha with a sinister smile.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha, my offer to take you to the Shitian Sacred Realm remains the best choice for you," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts insisted.


    "No need. I have my own ns. I''m not interested in the Shitian Sacred Realm," Emperor Xuan Sha replied coldly.


    "Don''t be so quick to refuse. I''ve already mentioned what the Shitian Sacred Realm and the wolf n in the Great Thousand World are like during our earlier fight. I won''t force you. I''ll be leaving this Small Thousand World soon and will await you in the Great Thousand World. When the heavens open, I''lle to ask you again. Take your time to think about it," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said with a smile.


    Emperor Xuan Sha red at the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts.


    "After the heavens open, I will return for you," the Demon of Ten Thousand Beasts said with a wicked smile.


    With that, he vanished in a sh, disappearing from everyone''s sight. His speed was extraordinarily fast, making it nearly impossible to pursue him. None of the onlookers made any attempt to chase after him.

 Chapter 773: Heaven and Celestial Melodies

    <h4>Chapter 773: Heaven and Celestial Melodies</h4>


    The Old Demon of Myriad Demons departed, and Zhong Shan stood at the gate of the Southern Heaven, deeply watching the silhouette of the Old Demon leaving!


    It was as if he was digesting the words of the Old Demon. The world beyond the Grand Thousand World was even more perilous than Zhong Shan had imagined! The number one person in the world throughout the ages?


    Zhong Shan didn''t know how many descendants of immortals with inherited bloodlines existed, but he knew of a few: Bei Qingsi, Nian Youyou, Nan Batian, Hao Meili, and perhaps many more!


    Of course, there was definitely that peerless powerhouse in the Grand Thousand World who closely resembled Bao''er.


    "Zhong Shan," Tian Ling''er softly called out as she saw Zhong Shan lost in thought.


    "I''m fine!" Zhong Shan shook his head at the women.


    "Hmm!" Bao''er, holding Tian Ling''er, nodded. Bao''er knew Zhong Shan had important matters to attend to, and the time for marital affection woulde after he handled all the affairs.


    "Return to the Hall of Longevity!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" In the imperial court, after receiving the mountain-shouting praises of the civil and military officials, Zhong Shan began handling the affairs of the imperial court. Many decrees and orders were issued as the Heavenly Dynasty advanced.


    The next day''s morning court.


    "Report to the Emperor, outside the Southern Heaven Gate, an envoy from the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty requests an audience!" A guard entered the hall and respectfully bowed.


    Taishui Heavenly Dynasty?


    The entire court buzzed with discussion. The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty was the arch-enemy of the Great Zheng Heavenly Dynasty, and now they requested an audience?


    "Who is the envoy?" Zhong Shan asked in a deep voice.


    "Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s Blood God Duke, Wangchen!" The guard respectfully replied.


    "Wangchen?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    In the grand hall, several key ministers suddenly looked at Zhong Shan. Wangchen?


    Most officials were unaware of the rtionship between Wangchen and Zhong Shan, but a few close ministers knew. Wangchen was Zhong Shan''s adopted son, Zhong Shijiu, who had betrayed him!


    This was a very sensitive person, and no one dared to mention him in front of Zhong Shan. Today, he came as an envoy from the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty?


    Zhong Shan gently tapped his dragon throne. The ministers stood quietly.


    Those who knew the inside story dared not speak, as Wangchen, though an envoy, had aplicated rtionship with the Emperor, a matter to be decided personally by him.


    "How many people came?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Eleven, led by Wangchen!" the guard quickly replied.


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes, pondered, took a deep breath, and then opened his eyes, saying, "I am tired. Arrange for them to stay in the Cangwu Garden, and summon them to the court tomorrow morning!"


    Tired? The Emperor tired?


    But no one dared to intervene. The guard respectfully replied, "Yes!"


    "Dismissed!"


    The court officials left, and Zhong Shan did not leave the Hall of Longevity.


    "Summon Zhong Tian!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" An elderly eunuch immediately responded.


    Soon, Zhong Tian was summoned.


    "Father, that little beast Shijiu is here?" A cold glint shed in Zhong Tian''s eyes.


    "They are staying in Cangwu Garden tonight," Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    "Cangwu Garden? The courtyard where that little beast used to stay? Father!" Zhong Tian said with a hint of surprise.


    "Go there tonight!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Uh?" Zhong Tian was momentarily stunned.


    In the Infernal Domain, the residence of the Tian family was on high alert this day. Each member of the Tian family held their swords, watching with a mix of fear and astonishment as sixteen individuals approached.


    Among the sixteen, two stood out as the most esteemed, with the remaining fourteen revolving around them. Both wore elegant, wide robes��one in red, the other in green��exuding an air of grace. Each had long, flowing braids and a beautifully crafted sword at their waist.


    The others either guarded these two or cleared the way for them, marching boldly towards the Tian family residence. The Tian family members surrounding them dared not attack; as the sixteen advanced, the Tian family retreated.


    Finally, they halted at the main gate of the Tian family estate. Tian Xiaozi, leading the strongmen of the Tian family, stepped forward.


    "Master, earlier Tian Lao tried to stop them, but that man defeated him with a single palm strike, leaving Tian Lao spitting blood and unable to move. It was him!" A Tian family disciple pointed fearfully at one of the men leading the way.


    "Who are you? Why have you trespassed into our Tian family?" Tian Xiaozi asked sternly.


    The two men in wide robes, encircled at the center, nced at the massive que above the gate.


    "Third Brother, there''s another Tian family in this small thousand-world? Could it be that the traitors from our Tian family are setting up false leads here?" The man in green robes chuckled.


    "This is the eighth small thousand-world we''ve searched. We should be getting close to the real one." The man in red robes shook his head.


    "But the bloodlines of these people are not of our Tian family, nor do their souls bear our family''s mark, let alone their fates!" The man in green frowned.


    "No, we are in the right ce!" The man in red took a deep breath and said.


    "Oh?"


    "I sense the aura of the ''Jingbo Pond.'' There''s no mistake; those traitors are in this small thousand-world!" The man in red closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, as if savoring the scent.


    "Really?" The man in green''s eyes lit up.


    The man in red turned to Tian Xiaozi at the gate and said, "I am Tian Tang, from the Tian family of the Grand Thousand World. Inform your family master that I wish to see him!"


    Tian Tang? Tian Xiaozi''s pupils contracted. The Tian family of the Grand Thousand World?


    After taking a deep look at the group, Tian Xiaozi said, "I am the family master, Tian Xiaozi! If you have something to say, say it!"


    "You?" The man in green looked incredulous.


    "Indeed!" Tian Xiaozi said solemnly.


    "Hahaha, what a joke! You, the family master?" The man in greenughed loudly.


    "I am the family master. If you have something to say, say it!" Tian Xiaozi repeated sternly.


    "Get lost! I have no time to y with you. Call your real family master out!" The man in green shouted.


    At his shout, the strongmen behind Tian Xiaozi drew their swords.


    "Oh, trying to fight?" The man in green sneered.


    Tian Xiaozi waved his hand, and the men reluctantly sheathed their swords.


    At that moment, a deep voice echoed from within the Tian family estate.


    "Esteemed guests, we wee you. Family master, bring them to the Tian Vein Hall!" The voice instructed, causing Tian Tang to frown slightly and the others to look curious.


    "Master, it''s the Grand Elder''s voice!" Tian Xiaozi nodded.


    "Please, this way," Tian Xiaozi said.


    "You''re really the family master?" The man in green robes asked in surprise.


    "Tiai, let''s go in," Tian Tang instructed the man in green robes.


    The group followed Tian Xiaozi to the Tian Vein Hall.


    Inside the Tian Vein Hall, Tian Chenzi waited patiently. Under Tian Tang''s signal, the other fourteen did not enter the hall; only Tian Xiaozi, Tian Tang, and Tiai entered.


    Upon entering the hall, they saw Tian Chenzi.


    "Great Elder," Tian Xiaozi greeted respectfully.


    Tian Chenzi nodded.


    "Not bad, you still have a trace of the Tian family''s aura, though it has be very faint," Tiai remarked.


    "I am Tian Chenzi. May I know the purpose of your visit?" Tian Chenzi gestured for everyone to sit down.


    Tian Tang and Tiai sat down without hesitation.


    "Are you the master of the Tian family?" Tian Tang asked Tian Chenzi.


    "The affairs of the Tian family areplex, but��" Tian Chenzi began.


    "Enough with the nonsense. Where is the Tian Order? Hand it over!" Tiai demanded bluntly.


    "I truly do not have the Tian Order," Tian Chenzi shook his head.


    "Are you toying with us?" Tiai''s eyes grew cold.


    "Tiai, let Tian Chenzi finish," Tian Tang said.


    "Very well," Tian Chenzi nodded deeply at Tian Tang, then continued, "Here''s the situation: the Tian Order does exist, but it''s not with our Yin World Tian family. The story goes like this." Tian Chenzi exined the detailed rtions between the Tian families of the Yin and Yang worlds.


    Listening to thisplicated rtionship, Tiai frowned.


    "So, the Tian Order is not in your possession? Then give me the Jingbo Pond!" Tiai demanded directly.


    "Sorry, the Jingbo Pond belongs to the Tian family. If you obtain the Tian Order andmand me with it, I will dly hand over the Jingbo Pond. For now, I cannotply," Tian Chenzi shook his head.


    "Hmph, still a tough nut to crack?" Tiai sneered, standing up.


    "Tiai!" Tian Tang barked.


    "Third Brother, what?"


    "Show some respect!" Tian Tang reprimanded.


    Tiai looked at Tian Tang with a hint of confusion.


    Ignoring Tiai, Tian Tang turned to Tian Chenzi and said, "Very well, it''s agreed then. When we obtain the Tian Order and the Jingbo Pond, I will petition the family to have your names added to the n registry!"


    "Thank you!" Tian Chenzi smiled.


    "Hmm. Since you have just arrived in this small thousand-world, why not rest here for the night? Tomorrow, let the family master discuss the matters of this small thousand-world with you," Tian Chenzi suggested.


    "Very well!" Tian Tang nodded after a deep look at Tian Chenzi.


    "Escort our esteemed guests to the guest courtyard!" Tian Xiaozi immediately ordered.


    "Yes!" Soon, a Tian family disciple led the sixteen people away from the Tian Vein Hall.


    After everyone had left, Tian Xiaozi frowned and asked, "Great Elder, why did you��"


    Tian Chenzi smiled faintly, "Tomorrow, exin the details of this small thousand-world to them. Don''t conceal too much."


    "Understood," Tian Xiaoziprehended Tian Chenzi''s intention.


    In a room within the Tian family guest courtyard.


    "Third Brother, why did you suddenly be so amodating? That old man��"


    "He is stronger than you," Tian Tang said gravely.


    "How is that possible?"


    "Tian Chenzi is a formidable person. Until we find the Tian Order, we must avoid falling out with them," Tian Tang said seriously.


    "Alright, I understand," Tiai conceded.

 Chapter 774: Wangchen鈥檚 Disposition

    <h4>Chapter 774: Wangchen''s Disposition</h4>


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court of the Great Zheng Heavenly Dynasty, within the imperial harem, at Gan Bao''er''s residence, Zhong Shan sat in the courtyard. The courtyard had an exquisite jade table with some delicacies, and all attendants had been dismissed.


    Sitting at the jade table, Zhong Shan looked up at the moon, his brows slightly furrowed, seemingly deep in thought.


    Empress Gan Bao''er poured a cup of fine wine for Zhong Shan.


    "Husband, has Tian''er gone to see Shijiu?" Gan Bao''er asked, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Yes, he will return after probing him," Zhong Shan nodded, letting out a soft sigh.


    "I understand your thoughts, husband. In fact, if you had carefully examined the dispositions of your adopted sons back then, you would have known their true natures. But you didn''t want to," Bao''er leaned against Zhong Shan''s shoulder as she spoke.


    "At that time, I wanted a ''Forbidden Breaking Pill,'' so I adopted many sons and raised them with all my heart. I treated them as my own children. What father thinks badly of his own sons?" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "No, it''s because you are too sentimental. You saw them as your own sons and felt guilty for initially adopting them just for the ''Forbidden Breaking Pill.'' So, you indulged and pampered them excessively. If it weren''t for the father-son bond, would you have always interpreted their unusual behaviors in a positive light? Your feelings have never been mixed with interests," Bao''er pouted.


    Gently stroking Bao''er''s hair, Zhong Shan didn''t refute her.


    "So, do you think Shijiu really betrayed you or just pretended to?" Bao''er asked curiously.


    "Everything is variable; how can we judge now?" Zhong Shan shook his head and smiled.


    "You are calmer than before, husband," Bao''er remarked with a smile.


    "Oh?"


    "In the past, you would have definitely hoped that your beloved sons were only pretending to betray you. Now, you calmly analyze from a neutral standpoint, as if preparing for a serious battle," Bao''er said gently.


    "A battle? Yes, it''s moreplex than a battle because the battlefield is within my heart," Zhong Shan said.


    "No matter what, we will always be with you," Bao''er said softly, holding Zhong Shan''s hand tightly.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The two conversed for more than an hour.


    "Father!" Zhong Tian''s voice came from outside the courtyard.


    Gan Bao''er immediately sat up straight, and she and Zhong Shan looked towards the courtyard entrance.


    "Come in!" Zhong Shan called.


    "Yes!"


    Soon, Zhong Tian entered the courtyard, frowning as he stood in front of the table.


    "How did it go?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I think it''s best if you decide, father," Zhong Tian thought for a moment before responding.


    "Oh?"


    "When Wangchen entered Cangwu Garden, he paused at the courtyard gate for two breaths of time. After entering, he stopped in the courtyard for three breaths before arranging for his subordinates to settle in, and he himself stayed in his old room," Zhong Tian reported.


    Zhong Shan tapped the table lightly, listening intently.


    "Later, when I went to see him, I met him in the courtyard, surrounded by his subordinates. I hinted at a private conversation, but he didn''t respond andpleted the meeting in front of everyone. As for the conversation, he spoke wlessly, without any loopholes, saying only what an envoy should say," Zhong Tian exined.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded thoughtfully.


    "Husband, what do you think?" Bao''er asked.


    "It''s hard to tell. Tomorrow, you, Zhong Tian, and Zhong Zheng will hide in the secretpartments of the Hall of Longevity. Let''s observe together," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    The Next Day


    "Summon the envoy from the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty to the Hall of Longevity for an audience!" a herald announced loudly.


    Wangchen entered the Hall of Longevity with two of his subordinates. Wangchen wore a red robe, with a faintly visible ''Yao'' character at his brow, now marked by a thin line of blood-red, representing his Blood Sea. His two subordinates wore gray robes.


    As they stepped into the hall, Wangchen''s pupils contracted. The hall was empty except for Zhong Shan, who sat alone. The civil and military officials were nowhere to be seen, leaving Zhong Shan as the sole figure in the grand hall.


    However, Wangchen''s two subordinates saw a different scene. To them, the hall appeared crowded with people on both sides, an illusion created to disorient them. They stopped at the entrance, unable to proceed further.


    Wangchen continued walking in, while his subordinates remained frozen at the door, as if Wangchen were still standing in front of them. Reaching the center of the hall, Wangchen looked at Zhong Shan.


    The two locked eyes. Wangchen''s lips trembled slightly, his eyes flickering with emotion, and his brow furrowed, a hint of guilt shing across his face. His knees seemed to bend, as if he wanted to kneel, trembling slightly.


    "Wangchen, do you have something to say to me?" Zhong Shan asked gravely, a hint of expectation in his eyes.


    Wangchen looked at Zhong Shan, bit his lip, and nced back at his two bewildered subordinates. A look of determination shed in his eyes. Clenching his fists, Wangchen looked at Zhong Shan again, his body slightly bent as if about to kneel. Suddenly, his eyes widened, his brow furrowed, as if he had remembered something crucial.


    With a sharp breath, Wangchen straightened up, his previous emotions vanishing. He looked at Zhong Shan and said, "Envoy of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, Wangchen, greets the Emperor of the Great Zheng!"


    Zhong Shan sat upright, his eyes narrowing.


    "Speak," Zhong Shanmanded, staring at Wangchen.


    "The Taishui and Great Zheng Dynasties have had their share of grudges. Ie on behalf of the Taishui Emperor to convey a message. First, we congratte the Great Zheng Dynasty on its sessful advancement. Second, we wish to turn hostility into friendship, to wash away past grievances, and to share the world of Shenzhou together," Wangchen said.


    Share the world of Shenzhou? An alliance between Great Zheng and Taishui to destroy Great Qin? Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Really? You speak for Kong Lietian with these words?" Zhong Shan asked coldly.


    "Yes, Ie with sincerity and hope the Great Zheng Emperor will consider this seriously," Wangchen replied.


    Zhong Shan stared at Wangchen for a while, taking a deep breath. "Escort the guest out!" he ordered, bluntly rejecting Wangchen.


    Wangchen bowed deeply before turning and leaving the hall with his subordinates. Throughout, the two subordinates saw a different scene from Wangchen.


    After Wangchen left, Zhong Shan looked towards a corner and gave a signal.


    "Seriously, you speak so nicely when you need my help, but after I help, you send me away!" a woman''s voiceined from the corner.


    It was Huanji. Though her voice was loud, only Zhong Shan could hear it. Zhong Shan gave her an exasperated look. Huanji pouted but still left.


    From another corner of the Hall of Longevity, Bao''er, Zhong Tian, and Zhong Zheng emerged.


    "Husband?" Bao''er asked, frowning.


    "Hmm, what do you think?" Zhong Shan asked the three of them.


    The three pondered for a moment.


    "Zheng''er, you go first," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, father. I believe that Wangchen is no longer Zhong Shijiu. He haspletely severed his ties with the past. Earlier, father subtly hinted that only he and father could hear the conversation, a chance for a sincere father-son dialogue. If he had nothing to hide, he would have been honest. It shows that he has cut off all past emotions and never had good intentions," Zhong Zheng said gravely.


    "Alright, Tian''er, your thoughts?" Zhong Shan turned to Zhong Tian.


    "My thoughts are the opposite of Zheng''er''s. I believe he has always been Shijiu and hasn''t changed. Father, do you remember Xiao Wang? Xiao Wang''s adopted son was the perfect example. He must have had his reasons back then, but by the time he returned, it was toote. And just now, father must have noticed Shijiu''s emotional fluctuations. He wanted to kneel and confess everything but hesitated, possibly due to Kong Lietian''s surveince or other reasons. His subtle reactions should have shown father that he is still Zhong Shijiu," Zhong Tian replied.


    "No, Xiao Wang''s case doesn''t prove anything. Do you remember Zhong Di? He was also taken in by an immortal sect but ended up trying to kill father. Moreover, before Yinn died, he received two letters, one of which aimed to lead Yinn to his death," Zhong Zheng shook his head.


    "The content of that letter was meant to lead Yinn to his death, but Yinn didn''t believe Wangchen''s words, so it might have been a reverse psychology tactic, trying to express a positive message through a negative one. It doesn''t prove anything!" Zhong Tian shook his head.


    As the two princes argued, Zhong Shan looked at Gan Bao''er. The two princes also paused their debate.


    "My memories of Zhong Shijiu are that he was always an obedient child. Before I began my cultivation, I always thought highly of him, and he was the son you favored the most. What do you think, husband?" Bao''er asked.


    The three of them looked at Zhong Shan.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan frowned and said, "Did I favor him the most? Hehe, Zhong Shijiu always seemed the most like me. His intelligence and emotional quotient were the highest among his brothers. Because he was the most like me, he could grasp others'' emotions well. His recent behavior doesn''t reveal much. Like the old Dragon Gatepetition, he never revealed his true intentions until the end. Everything from the past can only serve as a reference. We will have to keep observing."


    "Understood," the two princes nodded.


    After the two princes left, Bao''er gently massaged Zhong Shan''s shoulders. "Husband, no one can escape your keen eyes. Can you still not see through Wangchen?"


    "I want to observe him a bit more," Zhong Shan said, patting Bao''er''s hand.


    "Alright," Bao''er agreed.


    In the Netherworld, at Jingbo Pond


    Several elders of the Tian family were seated, with Tian Xiaozi standing before Tian Chenzi.


    "Great Elder, do you want them to help us find the ''Tian Order''? Father has already gone to the Yang World!" Tian Xiaozi asked with a frown.


    "Tianjizi? He''s already dead," Tian Chenzi shook his head.


    "Dead? Who killed him?" Tian Xiaozi''s expression changed dramatically.


    Tian Chenzi looked at Tian Xiaozi and shook his head. "You are no match for him. Don''t even think about it."


    "But...!" Tian Xiaozi''s eyes shed with anger.


    "No buts. What I seek is not just the Tian Order. I have seen the Tian Order before but could not uncover its secrets. Your task is to learn from Tian Tang and Tiai how to use the Tian Order and uncover its secrets," Tian Chenzi said sternly.


    "Understood!" Tian Xiaozi nodded, frowning.

 Chapter 775: Guiguzi

    <h4>Chapter 775: Guiguzi</h4>


    In the sacred capital of Xianyang, within the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty, the court was in session.


    "Ying, Zhong Shan has disrupted the order of your Great Qin. Our dragon n, the national beast of Great Qin, has been recruited by Zhong Shan to act as his protector. This is an insult to Great Qin, a tant act of contempt!" Ao Sihai loudly dered in the court.


    "Oh? And what do you want me to do about it?" Ying asked indifferently.


    Ying''s expression showed no emotion, his eyes deep and unfathomable.


    "This is a national disgrace. Great Zheng belittles Great Qin. We should root out the problem and crush their arrogance!" Ao Sihai demanded angrily.


    "Is that so?" Ying asked, a hint of dissatisfaction in his tone.


    "Absolutely!" Ao Sihai immediately responded.


    "Isn''t the supreme leader of the dragon n you, Ao Sihai, and not Zhong Shan? Why can''t you control the dragon n?" Ying retorted.


    "Because, because of a traitor, that..." Ao Sihai sensed something was wrong with Ying.


    "Then it''s your failure to manage the dragon n. I suggest you first straighten out your dragon n," Ying said coldly.


    Ao Sihai looked at Ying, his eyes shing with anger but having no outlet for his frustration. He turned and left with a sense of helplessness.


    "Dismissed!" Ying announced indifferently.


    Standing up, Ying flicked his sleeve and disappeared from the grand hall.


    In the hall, Li Si was absent, and only one prime minister, L�� Buwei, was present. L�� Buwei nced at the direction where Ao Sihai had left, a cold smile appearing on his face.


    "Prime Minister L��!" Bai Qi suddenly called out.


    "Oh? General Bai?" L�� Buwei looked at Bai Qi with curiosity.


    "Why is the Emperor so lenient in this matter? Even if Ao Sihai has not managed the dragon n well, even if the dragon n is very weak, the Emperor should not be so indulgent towards Great Zheng. ording to his usual temper, the Emperor would never protect Great Zheng like this. Why?" Bai Qi asked with a frown.


    "Hehe, firstly, this is neither a major issue nor a trivial one. The root cause lies with Ao Sihai. Secondly, Ao Sihai arrogantly presumed his status, which displeased the Emperor. And the most important third reason, you will soon understand. Compared to the final reputation, the Emperor values the benefits more," L�� Buwei said, patting Bai Qi''s shoulder.


    Bai Qi frowned slightly, then nodded, "Thank you for the guidance, Prime Minister L��!"


    Ao Sihai, filled with frustration, flew out of the imperial pce, followed by a group of dragons.


    "Supreme, why do you look so unhappy?" a dragon n member asked with a frown.


    "Return to the East Sea!" Ao Sihai''s face was grim, not answering the dragon n member.


    As the group of dragons was about to fly out of the sacred capital of Xianyang.


    "Souls, return~~!"


    Suddenly, a loud shout echoed across the sky of Great Qin, spreading throughout Xianyang.


    "Boom~~~!"


    With a terrifying explosion, lightning and thunder filled the sky, and an endless stream of air currents rushed towards a specific location in the city. Then, a surge of pure Yin, pitch-ck energy shot up into the sky.


    This powerful aura ascended and struck the cloud sea of Great Qin''s fortunes, causing the cloud sea to tremble violently, the fortunes fluctuating wildly. The horrifying ck energy enveloped the entire sky, forming a vast oppressive aura pressing down.


    The oppression was so intense that even Ao Sihai, the supreme of the dragon n, felt a sudden, heart-pounding fear.


    Surrounded by endless lightning, the strong pressure and lightning forced the dragons to the ground. Even Ao Sihai, with a face full of terror, was forced tond on the ground.


    In Xianyang, the Sacred Capital of Great Qin


    "What is going on? How can there be such a terrifying aura?" Ao Sihai wondered aloud.


    The overwhelming aura enveloped the entire sacred capital of Xianyang for a whole hour before slowly dissipating and retracting into a building within the city. Once everything returned to normal, the dragons were drenched in sweat.


    "Supreme, what just happened?" a dragon n member asked in horror.


    "Whose residence was that courtyard?" Ao Sihai asked, still shaken.


    "I know, I''ve heard about it before," another dragon responded immediately.


    "Oh?"


    "That''s Guigu Mansion. It''s thergest residence in Xianyang, second only to the imperial pce," the dragon exined.


    "Guigu Mansion? Could it be the former residence of the feng shui master Guiguzi?" another dragon pondered with a frown.


    Ao Sihai''s pupils constricted as he looked in that direction. "Guiguzi? The Guiguzi of Great Qin has awakened?"


    "Supreme? Who are you talking about? Who is Guiguzi?" the dragons questioned.


    "Let''s go back to the East Sea!" Ao Sihaimanded, not answering their questions, and swiftly ordered their departure.


    In the Netherworld, at the Capital of the Great Zheng Heavenly Dynasty


    On this day, six people arrived at the peak of a mountain outside the capital, Changjing. They were Tian Xiaozi, Tiai, and four of Tiai''s subordinates, all immortals from the Grand Thousand World.


    "Is this the ce?" Tiai asked Tian Xiaozi.


    "Yes, this is the ce. Zhong Shan is here. In the past, he used a fragment of the Tian Order tomand us, and he imed to be a disciple of the Tian family master in the Yang World. He must know where the Tian Order is!" Tian Xiaozi replied.


    "Are you sure?"


    "Absolutely. Why would I deceive you? Besides, with your wisdom, could I fool you?" Tian Xiaozi said quickly.


    Tiai stared at Tian Xiaozi, tilting his head slightly with suspicion. "Why do I feel like you are using me to deal with Zhong Shan?"


    "Why would I lie? Besides, didn''t your third brother, Tian Tang, also confirm my words? Otherwise, he wouldn''t have let youe with me to find Zhong Shan!" Tian Xiaozi responded.


    "But when we arrived here, we heard you lost to Zhong Shan. And where is Kunpeng? Didn''t you have a divine beast Kunpeng?" Tiai questioned, still wary.


    "Kunpeng? Kunpeng flew away on its own, out of the small thousand-world, and into the Grand Thousand World!" Tian Xiaozi exined.


    Tiai stared at Tian Xiaozi for a moment before saying, "I''ll trust you for now."


    "Of course, I, Tian Xiaozi, never lie," Tian Xiaozi smiled.


    Tiai turned his attention to the vast aura of luck surrounding the area. "Four generals!" Tiai called.


    "At your service!" the four subordinates responded immediately.


    "Bring Zhong Shan out!" Tiai ordered.


    "To what extent?"


    "Extent? Destroy Changjing, and Zhong Shan will naturallye out," Tiai dered arrogantly.


    "Yes!" the four generals replied.


    A subtle smile appeared on Tian Xiaozi''s lips.


    The four generals flew off the mountain and ascended high into the sky. Suddenly, a massive amount of red energy surrounded them, and mes engulfed the four of them. Fire elemental energy rapidly converged from all directions, growingrger andrger, transforming the four into giant suns in an instant.


    In the Hall of Longevity, Zhong Shan, Gan Bao''er, Zhong Tian, and Zhong Zheng watched from their hidden vantage points. Zhong Shan remained calm, observing the events unfolding outside.


    "Zhong Shan will soon show his true strength," Zhong Shan whispered to himself, a slight smile ying on his lips.


    The firestorm created by the four generals illuminated the sky, casting an ominous glow over Changjing. The time for confrontation was drawing near, and the stage was set for the ultimate sh of power and wits.


    The terrifying heat caused the surrounding space to tremble, the aftershocks alone enough to create spatial ripples.


    "Ha~~~!" The four "suns" suddenly let out a loud shout.


    Then, the enormous "suns" rapidly moved towards Changjing, transforming into four massive me dragons, surging towards the city. The four men were now visible, remaining in their original positions with a pushing stance.


    As the me dragons advanced, the space around them shook violently, and cracks appeared in their wake. The ten-thousand-zhang long me dragons roared towards Changjing from four directions, as if intending to destroy the city with their immense power.


    "Boom~~~!" The thunderous roar of the impact wasn''t as fast as the me dragons themselves.


    In an instant, the me dragons reached the outskirts of Changjing. Suddenly, starlight shone from the sky, and a vast amount of green light descended, forming a gigantic transparent green wall just in front of the dragons.


    "Boom~~~!" The colossal collision sound echoed as the enormous me dragons shattered into countless pieces, rebounding and exploding in all directions, tearing through space and creating ck holes. The surrounding area outside Changjing was engulfed in mes, and the violent shockwaves pulverized many nearby mountains into dust.


    The massive transparent wall trembled violently at the moment of impact, nearly shattering under the strain.


    Seeing this great formation, Tiai''s pupils contracted. Tian Xiaozi seemed unsurprised, as if he had anticipated it.


    The four generals looked towards Tiai, awaiting his decision.


    Inside the pce of Changjing, the shadow body of Zhong Shan was in the middle of a court session. The moment the four "suns" appeared, Zhong Shan noticed them, and his pupils contracted as he led his ministers out of the Immortal Hall.


    The "Great Luo Zhou Heavenly Star Formation" had been activated by Nangong Sheng, the Director of the Heavenly Strategy Bureau.


    As Zhong Shan exited the Immortal Hall, Nangong Sheng joined him, both looking towards the distant outskirts of Changjing.


    When the mes outside died down and the space stabilized, the six figures on the mountain peak were revealed.


    Tiai gazed up at the suddenly appearing stars.


    "Impressive formation, connecting the star power of the Grand Thousand World from this small thousand-world. The Great Zheng Heavenly Dynasty? Quite capable indeed!" Tiai remarked with a hint of admiration.


    "Master of the Tian family, what is your intention? Have you forgotten the lesson you learnedst time? Was the pain not enough?" Zhong Shan''s cold shout echoed.


    Despite the great distance, Zhong Shan''s voice reached the peak of the distant mountain. In Changjing, Zhong Shan had the ability to project his voice far and wide.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s question, a sh of hatred appeared in Tian Xiaozi''s eyes, but he did not respond.


    "That man is Zhong Shan!" Tian Xiaozi told Tiai.


    "Oh?" Tiai looked towards Zhong Shan in the distance.


    The two locked eyes, a cold glint shing in both of their gazes.

 Chapter 776: Blasting the Reincarnation Passage

    <h4>Chapter 776: sting the Reincarnation Passage</h4>


    Tiai and Zhong Shan locked eyes.


    "Capture him!" Tiaimanded the four generals beside him.


    "Yes!"


    With their orders received, the four generals shot towards Changjing with blinding speed, each moving as swiftly as the legendary Ye Qingcheng once did. In an instant, they reached the transparent wall.


    Each of the four generals drew arge sword.


    "Roar!"


    With a unified roar, they shed open a passage through the transparent wall formed by the Great Luo Zhou Heavenly Star Formation and forcefully charged through.


    From the entrance of the Immortal Hall, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    Impressive!


    These were the strong individuals the Old Demon of Myriad Demons had mentioned? Stronger than the Old Demon himself? If that was true, relying on the injured Nangong Sheng and the not-so-powerful ministers would be suicidal!


    Realizing the disparity in strength, Zhong Shan quickly shot towards the distance.


    "He''sing to us on his own?" Tiai remarked in surprise from the mountain peak.


    Zhong Shan moved rapidly, soon reaching the vicinity of the four generals. However, he did not engage them directly but instead dashed outwards, away from Changjing.


    Soon, Zhong Shan arrived outside Changjing and faced Tiai and Tian Xiaozi.


    Tian Xiaozi warned Tiai, "Be careful. We''re near Changjing. He is the Emperor of the Heavenly Dynasty and can draw power from the entire Great Zheng."


    Tiai nodded, then addressed Zhong Shan, "You came out alone. Are you surrendering already?"


    "I just don''t want to mess up my capital while killing you," Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "Hahaha..." Tiaiughed disdainfully.


    "Four generals, capture him!" Tiai ordered again.


    "Nangong Sheng, activate the Great Luo Zhou Heavenly Star Formation and protect Changjing!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    As the four generals lunged towards Zhong Shan, Nangong Sheng swiftly activated the powerful formation. This time, the full might of the Great Luo Zhou Heavenly Star Formation was unleashed, with endless starlight descending from the sky, forming a massive light shield that enveloped Changjing.


    Zhong Shan continued to speed towards the distance, with the four generals narrowly missing him each time.


    "Such incredible speed!" Tiai remarked with a hint of surprise.


    The six of them pursued Zhong Shan, stopping only when they reached a mist-filled valley.


    "Why did you stop running?" Tiai sneered.


    "I don''t want to waste words with you. Since you want to die, I''ll grant your wish!" Zhong Shan retorted coldly.


    "Oh?" Tiai responded with disdain.


    "Reincarnation Passage, open~~~!"


    "Whoosh!"


    The surroundings suddenly changed, and a terrifying aura emanated from all directions.


    Zhong Shan immediately activated the powerful Reincarnation Passage.


    With his advancement to the Heavenly Extreme Realm, Zhong Shan had a profound understanding of the Reincarnation Passage''s workings. This current Reincarnation Passage was hundreds of times stronger than before.


    But who were these people? The Old Demon of Myriad Demons had said they were of his level. He was a peerless viin who had fought against Emperor Xuan Sha for two days and nights. Though neither had fought with their full strength, it was evident that these people were formidable. Against such powerful opponents, not using a strong move from the start would be extremely dangerous.


    The terrifying Reincarnation Passage enveloped everyone in a sudden blue light. A powerful pulling force acted on everyone, pulling,pressing, and colliding, tearing apart not only their flesh but also their souls.


    "We''re inside the Reincarnation Passage?" Tiai eximed in shock.


    Everyone looked up. Indeed, above them, a massive circr exit could be seen, sucking in mountains andnds from the outside world. However, anything entering the passage was immediately torn to shreds by the powerful pulling force.


    The immense pressure was unbearable, even for the four generals.


    "Get out!" the four generals roared, flying upwards with all their might.


    Despite being peerless warriors, they struggled to withstand the Reincarnation Passage. Blue veins bulged on their foreheads as they pushed upwards.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Reincarnation Passage!" Zhong Shan shouted coldly. The strange airflow within the passage began to rotate even faster, and the terrifying force increased.


    "Roar!"


    The four generals roared in struggle, their expanding muscles tearing with the strain. Instead of ascending, they were being pulled downwards, the tearing force intensifying the lower they went.


    Fear etched on their faces, the four generals continued to desperately fly upwards, exerting all their strength.


    Zhong Shan also began to sweat. These people were incredibly resilient.


    Tian Xiaozi, now covered in countless cracks and bloodied, was being lifted by a massive force. A faint ck light emanated from his body.


    "Boom!"


    A pair of giant wings unfolded. They were Kunpeng''s wings, which had been hidden within Tian Xiaozi''s clothes. The wings, expanding to ten zhang, lifted Tian Xiaozi upwards inch by inch.


    It turned out Kunpeng had been with Tian Xiaozi all along. Under the immense force, Tian Xiaozi ascended, but his face was already unrecognizable from the tearing.


    Zhong Shan''s mastery over the Reincarnation Passage was terrifying. This wasn''t just opening the entrance; it was transforming the surrounding environment into the interior of the passage, with its horrifying tearing force.


    This was the true terror of the Reincarnation Passage: the deeper one went, the greater the force. Even an immortal would be doomed!


    "Ah~~~!" Tian Xiaozi let out a skyward howl filled with unwillingness, resentment, and defiance. His rage and frustration were palpable.


    "Boom!"


    Tian Xiaozi suddenly exploded into a blood mist.


    The Reincarnation Passage was too terrifying.


    "Whoosh!"


    Without the burden of Tian Xiaozi, Kunpeng pped its wings and, filled with fear, flew upwards, escaping with its body covered in cracks.


    Kunpeng, a powerful divine beast, became the first to escape Zhong Shan''s Reincarnation Passage.


    "Ah!" One of the four generals, the weakest among them, could no longer hold on and was sucked into the depths, exploding instantly. Their weapons had long been ground to dust within the passage.


    Tiai, though terrified, managed to hold on. Unlike the others, he wasn''t sinking.


    The terrifying force of the Reincarnation Passage continued to act on the remainingbatants, testing their limits. The chaotic scene, filled with the blue glow and the deafening roars of the struggling warriors, demonstrated the true might of Zhong Shan''s power.


    Tiai''s eyes, though filled with fear, also burned with determination. His unique position allowed him to observe and perhaps understand the workings of the passage better than the others. As he maintained his position, he continued to search for a way to counter or escape the deadly force that threatened to consume them all.


    The terrifying force of the Reincarnation Passage enveloped everyone, pulling and tearing at their bodies and souls. Tiai, drenched in sweat, looked at Zhong Shan and extended his right hand, which began to emit a yellow light, forming a glove adorned with ancient runes.


    With a fierce look in his eyes, Tiai punched the air with immense power, his body slightly sinking as he redirected his strength. The punch, filled with violent energy, disrupted the very rules andws around it.


    "Break~~~!"


    The punch produced no visible light, but Zhong Shan felt a chaotic disturbance in the rules andws of the Reincarnation Passage.


    "Crack, crack, crack..."


    "Boom~~~!"


    The force of the punch caused the Reincarnation Passage to crack and shatter, leading to a massive explosion. Zhong Shan''s face turned pale as the passage disintegrated, leaving a gigantic ck hole in its wake.


    The ck hole now contained only four people: Zhong Shan, Tiai, and two of Tiai''s subordinates. Both sides stared at each other with lingering fear.


    Zhong Shan, pale and shocked, looked at the glove on Tiai''s hand. What kind of glove was this, capable of breaking the Reincarnation Passage? The punch had disrupted the infinite rules andws within the passage, causing it to explode.


    Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, observing the three remaining formidable opponents. Tiai''s two subordinates were equally astonished, having seen theirrades pulverized by the Reincarnation Passage.


    Tiai, too, was shocked. He had underestimated Zhong Shan, assuming him to be merely a strong warrior from a small world. Even if Zhong Shan was at the twelfth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm, Tiai hadn''t expected such a disy of power.


    Tiai wiped the cold sweat from his forehead, realizing that without his magical artifact, the glove, his subordinates would have been shredded by the Reincarnation Passage.


    "Reincarnation Passage? Are you a disciple of the Reincarnation Sage? You''re not a disciple of the Yang World Tian family master?" Tiai asked coldly.


    "Great Immortal Artifact?" Zhong Shan asked, eyeing the glove on Tiai''s hand.


    "Good insight. Since you''re a disciple of the Reincarnation Sage, tell me where the ''Heaven Order'' is, or else..." Tiai''s voice trailed off menacingly.


    Before he could finish, arge appeared from all directions, enclosing Zhong Shan, Tiai, and the others within it.


    Tiai''s face twisted into a sinister smile, indicating that he had nned a counter-attack. "Even if you''re a disciple of the Reincarnation Sage, you won''t escape my Heavenly Net," Tiai said angrily. He flew out of the spherical, which now trapped Zhong Shan like a cage.


    However, Tiai''s smile faded when he saw Zhong Shan emerge from the as if unaffected. Zhong Shan didn''t look as if he had escaped easily; the effort to open the Reincarnation Passage had taken its toll. Facing Tiai, who seemed almost as powerful as the ancient gods, along with two strong subordinates and a formidable artifact, was no easy task.


    The Great Immortal Artifact was indeed a powerful object.


    Zhong Shan and Tiai stared each other down, the tension palpable. Zhong Shan''s mind raced as he considered his next move against such formidable opponents, realizing that the battle was far from over.

 Chapter 777: Ying鈥檚 Invitation

    <h4>Chapter 777: Ying''s Invitation</h4>


    As the space slowly restored itself and the ck hole gradually disappeared, the aftermath of the Reincarnation Passage explosion stretched to the edges of Changjing. Fortunately, the Great Luo Zhou Heavenly Star Formation protected the city, ensuring its safety.


    Zhong Shan remained vignt, eyeing the three opponents before him, who also kept a wary watch on him. Especially Tiai, whose eyes held a cold malice. With the Great Immortal Artifact in hand, Tiai felt nearly invincible, believing he could sweep through this small thousand-world.


    "Emperor of the Great Zheng, Zhong Shan?"


    A loud voice echoed from a distance, catching everyone off guard.


    Hearing the voice, Zhong Shan''s eyebrows raised, and a sh of surprise crossed his eyes. He hadn''t sensed anyone approaching. Who could it be?


    Tiai and his subordinates were equally astonished, turning to look.


    On a distant mountain peak, formed from the filled-in space, two men suddenly appeared. They were peculiar, their entire bodies emitting a green glow, their faces slightly blurred, resembling ghosts.


    No, they weren''t ghosts; they were souls.


    Yan Chongzhi had once said that after death, a soul could be a ghost, or it could return to its body, retaining its original form. A ghost, however, could only possess a body, even if it was freshly deceased. Souls were light green, while ghosts were dark green.


    But generally, souls couldn''t leave the body; leaving would either lead to their dispersal or their transformation into ghosts due to contamination by yin energy.


    What was going on here? Two souls? They were clearly souls, not ghosts.


    Each soul carried a sword on its back, sheathed so the de wasn''t visible. Souls that could remain intact? Were these two prepared to return to their bodies? But...


    "Who are you?" Zhong Shan demanded.


    "Great Qin, Wang Jian, greets the Emperor of Great Zheng!"


    "Great Qin, Meng Tian, greets the Emperor of Great Zheng!"


    The two men introduced themselves in turn.


    "Wang Jian? Meng Tian?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    "Indeed. We have just returned from the Grand Thousand World,manded by our Emperor to assist the Emperor of Great Zheng!" Wang Jian performed a state salute.


    "Just returned from the Grand Thousand World? You didn''t need ''Soul Return''?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrows raised.


    "The Emperor of Great Zheng knows much about our Great Qin. No wonder our Emperor asked us to treat you with a state salute! We returned on our own, without Xu Fu''s rituals!" Wang Jian remarked.


    "Ying? How did Ying know I was in danger?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrows furrowed.


    "Let''s clear your enemies first, then we can discuss it in detail," Wang Jian said sternly.


    Zhong Shan stared at the two souls and nodded.


    "Hahaha! Boasting so shamelessly, two souls dare im to havee from the Grand Thousand World?" Tiai sneered coldly.


    Looking at Tiai and hispanions, Wang Jian spoke, "Meng Tian, finish this quickly!"


    "Yes!" Meng Tian nodded.


    Wang Jian slowly drew his sword from its sheath. As soon as the de was partially exposed, a blinding red light burst forth, scattering red rays in all directions. A powerful killing intent filled the air, making everyone''s hearts tremble with a sense of ughter. This feeling reminded Zhong Shan of the ughtering Immortal Sword.


    The overwhelming killing aura emanating from Wang Jian''s sword seemed to fill the entire sky, a palpable force that could be felt even at a distance. Tiai''s confidence wavered slightly, realizing the power he was up against.


    "Is this the kind of power that souls from the Grand Thousand World possess?" Tiai muttered, his voice tinged with uncertainty.


    Wang Jian and Meng Tian, despite being mere souls, exuded a formidable presence that demanded respect and fear. The battlefield was set for an intense sh between the mighty warriors of Great Qin and the intruders challenging Zhong Shan''s reign.


    Unlike the ughtering Immortal Sword, Wang Jian''s sword was filled with endless ferocity and the stench of blood. In a fleeting moment, Zhong Shan seemed to see countless malevolent ghosts wailing around Wang Jian''s sword.


    As for Meng Tian, he drew a wide, pitch-ck sword. Although it didn''t look as fierce as Wang Jian''s, it was undoubtedly no ordinary sword.


    "A blood sword? How many people have you killed with that sword?" Tiai asked, showing fear for the first time.


    "How many? I don''t remember. Just recently, upon returning, we ughtered two Heavenly Dynasties!" Wang Jian replied with a smile.


    ughtered two Heavenly Dynasties?


    "Let''s go!" Tiai shouted to his two subordinates, turning and fleeing without hesitation.


    Zhong Shan, fully aware of Tiai''s strength, was surprised to see him flee at the sight of Wang Jian''s sword. What kind of power did Wang Jian possess?


    Wang Jian and Meng Tian shed after them, pursuing the fleeing enemies. In an instant, they all disappeared from sight.


    Zhong Shan looked around coldly. Confirming that no one else was present, his body suddenly exploded and dissipated into smoke. This Zhong Shan was merely a shadow clone.


    The real Zhong Shan was still in front of the Immortal Hall in Changjing.


    Before the Immortal Hall, Zhong Shan waved his hand, dismissing his ministers.


    "Nangong Sheng, dismantle the formation," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!"


    The Great Luo Zhou Heavenly Star Formation was dismantled. Zhong Shan stood outside the Immortal Hall, waiting.


    Half an hourter, Wang Jian and Meng Tian returned.


    "Generals, how did it go?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "We killed both subordinates, but the leader escaped. However, he was struck by my sword and won''t live long," Wang Jian assured.


    Zhong Shan nodded, looking at Wang Jian. Yan Chongzhi and Nangong Sheng raised their eyebrows in surprise.


    "Souls? You managed to kill them in soul form?" Yan Chongzhi asked in astonishment.


    Zhong Shan also looked at Wang Jian.


    "Being in soul form allowed us to enter this small thousand-world. Otherwise, using ''Soul Return'' would have significantly weakened us for a time," Wang Jian exined.


    "General Wang Jian, you haven''t answered my question. How did you know Changjing was in danger?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "It was deduced by Mr. Guiguzi. Although Mr. Guiguzi said that Great Zheng''s Changjing could survive this crisis, the Emperor still had us pass through here to help you ovee this disaster and form a goodwill rtionship," Wang Jian replied candidly.


    Such directness! Prenned kindness, and Wang Jian spoke of it so straightforwardly?


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan felt a bit suspicious.


    "The Emperor instructed us to be honest with the Emperor of Great Zheng, as there was no need to hide anything," Wang Jian said directly.


    "Ying? He is indeed straightforward," Zhong Shan said with a peculiar expression.


    Wang Jian smiled faintly.


    "Guiguzi, is he the feng shui master of Great Qin? The founder of the Guigu lineage?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, Guiguzi is the revered ancestor of the Guigu lineage and a renowned feng shui master of Great Qin. His insights and predictions are rarely wrong. It was through his calctions that the Emperor learned of your plight and sent us to assist you," Wang Jian confirmed.


    Zhong Shan nodded, absorbing this new information. Guiguzi''s reputation preceded him, and the intervention from such a figure indicated the seriousness of the situation.


    "Then, please convey my gratitude to your Emperor. This assistance came at a critical moment," Zhong Shan said, bowing slightly.


    Wang Jian and Meng Tian returned the bow respectfully.


    "We are honored to be of assistance. If the Emperor of Great Zheng ever needs further help, know that Great Qin stands ready to aid a worthy ally," Wang Jian said.


    With the immediate danger averted, Zhong Shan contemted the broader implications of this newfound alliance. The intervention of Great Qin, spearheaded by the legendary Guiguzi, signaled a deeper connection and mutual respect between the two powerful dynasties.


    "I''m sorry, but this matter involves Mr. Guiguzi''s calctions, and we cannot divulge more," Wang Jian shook his head.


    Zhong Shan nodded and took a deep breath. "Did Ying have any message for me?"


    "The Emperor invites your true self to visit the sacred capital of Xianyang in Great Qin to discuss matters regarding this small thousand-world," Wang Jian conveyed.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. Xianyang Sacred Capital? Ying wanted to meet him there? Why Xianyang?


    "Whether you go or not is entirely up to you, Emperor of Great Zheng. We are merely messengers. Farewell," Wang Jian said.


    With that, Wang Jian and Meng Tian performed a formal salute and then swiftly departed from Changjing.


    Watching the two souls leave, Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "Your Majesty, if these two souls were to reunite with their bodies, their power might surpass that of an immortal!" Yan Chongzhimented.


    "Oh?"


    "A soul is the weakest form of a being, the weakest. Yet, in this form, they slew those powerful foes as if they were mere insects. What would happen once they return to their bodies? I dare not imagine!" Yan Chongzhi said, deeply inhaling.


    "Great Qin, an unimaginable Great Qin!" Nangong Sheng eximed.


    In the Yang World, Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Tianyuan Pavilion


    Zhong Shan did not hide the events of theherworld from his high-ranking officials.


    "Wang Jian? A soul form that strong?" Emperor Xuan Sha frowned.


    "The strength of Great Qin far surpasses that of a Heavenly Dynasty. Why does such a powerful force remain hidden in this small thousand-world?" Zhao Suo questioned with a frown.


    Zhong Shan tapped the table, deep in thought.


    "Your Majesty, what should we do about Ying''s invitation?" Shui Wuhen asked Zhong Shan.


    All the ministers looked at Zhong Shan. An invitation to Xianyang? Ying had actually invited the Emperor to Xianyang?


    "Your Majesty, I have a suspicion," Yi Yan suddenly said.


    "Oh?"


    "Are Wang Jian and Meng Tian truly from Great Qin? Did Ying really send that message?" Yi Yan questioned.


    The ministers nodded; this matter required careful consideration.


    "Rest assured, those two are definitely from Great Qin and are fiercely loyal to Ying," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    "Very well, then how does Your Majesty n to respond? Ying''s intentions are difficult to fathom. What exactly does Great Qin intend to do?" Yi Yan pondered.


    "Could Ying have any ill intentions towards you, Your Majesty?" Shui Wuhen asked worriedly.


    Zhong Shan thought for a moment and shook his head.


    "Yi Yan, you will apany me to Great Qin tomorrow," Zhong Shan decided.


    "Yes!" Yi Yan nodded.


    Zhong Shan wasn''t concerned about safety because he felt there was no danger. The Red Phoenix Plum Blossom hadn''t changed color. On the contrary, Zhong Shan sensed that Great Qin, which had been lying dormant for so long, was about to make a significant move.


    The Next Day


    Zhong Shan, apanied by Yi Yan, set out for Great Qin.


    "Your Majesty, what should I do during this trip?" Yi Yan asked.


    "I will meet Ying, and you will visit Guiguzi," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood!"


    Ten dayster, Zhong Shan and Yi Yan arrived at the sacred capital of Xianyang in Great Qin. From a distance, they saw a procession waiting, led by Great Qin''s Prime Minister, L�� Buwei.


    "Emperor of Great Zheng, it has been a long time!" L�� Buwei greeted with a smile.


    "Prime Minister L��? How did you know I would arrive in Xianyang today?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    "Mr. Guiguzi predicted it. The Emperor specifically sent me to wee you," L�� Buwei replied with a smile.


    Guiguzi again? He predicted my arrival today? How powerful was Guiguzi? Was he just a feng shui master?


    "Please, this way," L�� Buwei invited.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The procession escorted Zhong Shan and his party swiftly into the depths of Xianyang.


    Yi Yan remained outside the pce, using the Da Rong Commerce to gather the information he sought.


    Inside the pce, they were not led to the main hall but to another grand hall.


    "The Emperor is waiting inside. You may enter to meet him," L�� Buwei said.

 Chapter 778: Ying and Zhong Shan

    <h4>Chapter 778: Ying and Zhong Shan</h4>


    "The Emperor is waiting inside. You can go in and meet him," L�� Buwei said.


    Zhong Shan nodded and stepped into the grand hall.


    Upon entering, Zhong Shan immediately saw Ying. Dressed in his usual ck dragon robe, Ying appeared more casual this time, not wearing the imperial crown, giving a less formal impression.


    Ying stood with his hands behind his back, facing a wall in the center of the hall. This wall was made of white jade, covered in strange tadpole-like characters that seemed to be moving in a mysterious pattern.


    Following Ying''s gaze, Zhong Shan felt himself drawn into the endless dance of these tadpole characters, losing himself in their enigmatic movement. It took a sudden jolt of awareness, honed from his experiences in the Hundred Lives Cave, for Zhong Shan to snap back to reality. He looked at the jade wall with lingering apprehension. What was this jade wall?


    When Zhong Shan regained his senses, he noticed Ying had already turned to face him, a look of satisfaction in his eyes.


    "Zhong Shan?" Ying called.


    "Ying," Zhong Shan responded with a nod, still uneasy about the jade wall from a moment ago.


    "What did you make of that jade wall?" Ying asked with a slight smile.


    "Strange and unpredictable, ever-changing. I could only see chaos," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    "This jade wall is called the ''Heavenly Secrets Diagram.'' In ancient times, two saints entered this small thousand-world and used it as a chessboard for their duel. This is thepensation left behind by one of the saints," Ying exined, gesturing for Zhong Shan to sit.


    On one side of the hall, there was a set of red jade tables and chairs, with a beautiful maid standing nearby.


    Zhong Shan sat down, and Ying also took a seat. The maid poured fragrant tea filled with spiritual energy for both of them.


    "Compensation? For whom?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Who do you think?" Ying asked, scrutinizing Zhong Shan.


    "The Heavenly Dao?"


    "Not quite, but close. The two saints disrupted the small thousand-world and had to leavepensations to nullify their karmic debts. One saint left behind a self-created cultivation method said to allow rapid improvement without harming one''s foundation, while also tempering the body. The other saint left this Heavenly Secrets Diagram," Ying exined.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan''s eyes widened.


    "The Heavenly Secrets Diagram?" Zhong Shan inquired further.


    "What the saints left behind is naturally miraculous," Ying said with a faint smile.


    "What''s so miraculous about it?"


    "Are you puzzled about how Guiguzi calcted the danger to Changjing in theherworld and your arrival date in Xianyang?" Ying asked.


    "Indeed, Zhong Shan is very curious. If it''s not too much trouble, could you exin it?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Ying shook his head. "Such methods of calction are something you''ll have to discover on your own; I won''t reveal them. However, the Heavenly Secrets Diagram can help you ''disrupt heavenly secrets.''"


    "Disrupt heavenly secrets?" Zhong Shan echoed, confused.


    "Yes. By learning the techniques of this diagram, you may not be able to calcte others, but you''ll be able to sense if someone is calcting against you and disrupt the surrounding heavenly secrets, making it impossible for them to read you," Ying exined.


    "Sense calctions? Disrupt heavenly secrets?" Zhong Shan asked, astonished.


    Ying nodded. "Exactly. It''s a way to shield oneself from those who might try to manipte or foresee your fate."


    Zhong Shan absorbed this information, understanding the profound implications of such an ability. The Heavenly Secrets Diagram offered a formidable defense against those who sought to pry into one''s destiny, providing an edge in a world where knowledge of the future could mean the difference between life and death.


    "Indeed, at its highest level, it can even deceive saints. Not even they can calcte through it," Ying affirmed, his tone filled with temptation.


    Zhong Shan stopped looking at the ''Heavenly Secrets Diagram'' and took a deep breath, turning his gaze to Ying.


    "Why are you telling me this?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    "We''ll discuss thatter. Let''s talk about you first," Ying replied, looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Me?"


    "Yes, you. An outsider from beyond this world?" Ying said with certainty.


    "Oh? What makes you say that?" Zhong Shan''s expression remained unchanged.


    "I have calcted about you, but it wasn''t certain. Guiguzi also calcted about you, and the results were the same��youe from outside this world," Ying said solemnly.


    Seeing Ying''s sharp eyes, Zhong Shan gave a wry smile. "Calctions? Quite a skill!"


    With Zhong Shan''s admission, Ying''s expression gradually softened.


    "You''ve had some encounter that erased your past, so I won''t ask about your origins. From your attitude towards Great Qin, it seems you have heard of me before?" Ying asked.


    "Perhaps. I''ve heard of a Great Qin before, but that Great Qin is not this Great Qin. Some of your ministers have names that coincide with the Great Qin I heard of," Zhong Shan said.


    "I think you know in your heart that that Great Qin is indeed this Great Qin," Ying said calmly.


    Zhong Shan looked at Ying.


    "Eight thousand years ago, I used the divine ability ''Dream into Heavenly Secrets,'' leading my ministers and armies with virtual and real bodies to travel through numerous small andrge thousand-worlds. Training my ministers, roaming the world! Can you guess?" Ying said.


    "Soul Return!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Exactly!" A hint of pride shed in Ying''s eyes.


    Zhong Shan felt no joy at this revtion, only a deepening sense of gravity. What was Ying''s intention in telling him this?


    "What do you want from me?" Zhong Shan asked directly.


    "I want to trade for the Jingbo Pond," Ying replied just as directly.


    "Jingbo Pond? It''s not in my possession. What do you mean?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrows raised.


    Ying did not rush, sipping his tea calmly. "The Jingbo Pond belongs to the Tian family. The only heir of the Tian family is your wife. Her words are your words. The Jingbo Pond is a great treasure, but you cannot control it now. It wasn''t originally a Tian family treasure; it was acquiredter, so it doesn''t affect Tian Ling''er''s growth."


    "So?"


    "The Jingbo Pond is useful to me. Although it is in the hands of the Tian family in theherworld, it has restrictions set by the ancestors of the Tian family. If it leaves this small thousand-world, the direct descendants of the Tian family will sense it and can instantly retrieve it with their bloodline. While I do not fear the gods of the Heavenly Peak, I prefer not to antagonize them for now. If you agree to have Tian Ling''er relinquish the Jingbo Pond, that will suffice," Ying said with a faint smile.


    Zhong Shan stared deeply at Ying for a while.


    "The Jingbo Pond? A supreme treasure?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    Ying took another sip of tea, waiting patiently for Zhong Shan''s response.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with surprise as he looked at Ying. "Leave this world? Ling''er will sense it? Are you nning to leave this world?"


    "All of Great Qin''s ministers have returned to their souls; there are no more concerns. There''s nothing left to wait for," Ying replied.


    "You don''t want to create a new world? You don''t want to open this small thousand-world?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrows raised.


    Ying looked at Zhong Shan and shook his head slightly. "Creating a new world, opening the heavens and the earth��such endeavors are bound by this world''s limitations. The potential for growth and true dominion lies beyond this world. This small thousand-world is too restrictive for Great Qin''s ambitions."


    Zhong Shan nodded, understanding the implications of Ying''s words. Great Qin''s sights were set on a grander stage, one where their power and influence could expand without the constraints of a smaller world. The trade for the Jingbo Pond was a step in theirrger strategy, one that Zhong Shan needed to consider carefully.


    "And if I refuse?" Zhong Shan asked, testing Ying''s resolve.


    Ying''s expression remained calm. "Then I will seek other means. But know that cooperation can yield mutual benefits. The path to greater power often involves strategic alliances."


    Zhong Shan pondered this, realizing the gravity of the decision before him. The offer from Ying was not just about the Jingbo Pond but a potential alliance with a powerful force, one that could shape the future of many worlds.


    "Create a new world? I won''t be doing that," Ying said with a faint smile.


    Zhong Shan kept his eyes on Ying. When Ying mentioned ''creating a new world,'' Zhong Shan noticed there wasn''t eagerness in Ying''s eyes, but rather a subtle disdain. Disdain? Zhong Shan doubted his own perception for a moment.


    Isn''t the ultimate goal of everyone in the small thousand-world to create a new world? Why would Ying show disdain for it? That fleeting disdain seemed to deeply embed itself in Zhong Shan''s mind.


    What does Ying really want?


    For some reason, Zhong Shan felt a small sense of relief, though it was quickly followed by a surge of anger at himself for feeling relieved.


    Ying? The Emperor of Great Qin? So what? One day, I will be stronger than him!


    Seeing the determination in Zhong Shan''s eyes, Ying seemed to notice and smiled with satisfaction.


    "But the Jingbo Pond is with the Tian family in theherworld, not with me," Zhong Shan said.


    "Don''t worry about that. I''ll retrieve it myself," Ying replied.


    Zhong Shan considered this for a moment. Ying waited patiently.


    "How do you want to trade?" Zhong Shan resolutely decided to give up the Jingbo Pond.


    A treasure? So what if it''s a treasure? If it cannot be controlled or protected, it will always be a curse. Zhong Shan believed that when he could control such treasures, he would have more than one.


    "A true man knows when to give up. I knew I didn''t misjudge you," Ying said with a smile.


    "To gain something, you must give something," Zhong Shan replied calmly.


    "Good. In exchange for the Jingbo Pond, I''ll give you what you want."


    Zhong Shan looked at Ying, waiting for him to continue.


    "The first item is this ''Heavenly Secrets Diagram,''" Ying said.


    Zhong Shan''s eyelid twitched.


    "The second item is some information about the Longevity World, information that I know."


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    "As for the third item, you''ll find out in a few days. Although it may not be as valuable as the first two, it will be a nice addition," Ying added.


    Zhong Shan and Ying talked for an entire day and night.


    The next day, Zhong Shan left the hall alone and met up with Yi Yan.


    "Your Majesty, Guiguzi is not receiving guests. I couldn''t meet him, but I did find out that he seems to be setting up a veryrge formation. I''ll assign more people to investigate," Yi Yan said with a frown.


    "No need to investigate further. Withdraw all our people from Xianyang," Zhong Shan ordered firmly.


    "Uh? Withdraw everyone? For what purpose?"


    "Prepare for war!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Prepare for war? Against whom?"


    "To unify the world!" Zhong Shan said with determination.


    At the same time, L�� Buwei reported back to Ying.


    "Congrattions, Your Majesty. Zhong Shan intends to unify the world, and he will certainly stand against the Kong family. The Kong family now has a powerful new enemy," L�� Buwei said with a smile.


    "What is the biggest obstacle for Zhong Shan in unifying the world?"


    "The old monsters of the Longevity World! For any ordinary dynasty, they are an insurmountable challenge. I hope Zhong Shan can get through it. I look forward to seeing his brilliantmercial strategies in the Grand Thousand World!"


    "He will make it," Ying said, frowning slightly.


    Ying seemed to have a trace of worry. After all, the old monsters of the Longevity World were a concern even for Ying.


    "Even if Zhong Shan gets past this hurdle, what about after he opens the heavens? There are countless strong practitioners outside, all focused on this new world creation. Can Zhong Shan survive this second major challenge? This one is even more dangerous," L�� Buwei said, frowning.


    "He will get through it. If he can''t, then he doesn''t deserve my attention," Ying said with a sh of fierceness in his eyes.


    L�� Buwei nodded and said no more.

 Chapter 779: The Great Qin Dissolution Decree

    <h4>Chapter 779: The Great Qin Dissolution Decree</h4>


    In the Netherworld, the Northern Dayou Heavenly Dynasty


    "Summon the Great Qin envoy, Zhao Gao, for an audience!"


    In the grand hall of the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty, the ministers stood in anticipation, watching the entrance.


    Soon, a eunuch in a purple official uniform walked into the hall. The Emperor of Dayou, seated to the north, stared at the unexpected visitor.


    Entering the hall, Zhao Gao disyed no servile demeanor, his eyes shing with confidence as he faced the Dayou Emperor.


    "Great Qin? Why has the Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty from the Yang World sent you here?" the Dayou Emperor asked sternly.


    With a swift motion, Zhao Gao produced an imperial decree.


    "By order of the Emperor, the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty''s dominance in the northernherworld is contrary to the Emperor''s principles and is displeasing to him. Therefore, the Emperor decrees that the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty must dissolve within one year! So ordered!" Zhao Gao read aloud.


    Arrogance! Extreme arrogance!


    To issue the decree of one dynasty in the court of another, especially one demanding dissolution��this surpassed mere arrogance; it was madness. This man was a lunatic, and so was Ying.


    He, an emperor of the Yang World, dared to meddle in the affairs of aherworld dynasty? Who did he think he was?


    "Scoundrel! Do you know where you are?" the Dayou Prime Minister shouted, his eyes bulging.


    Zhao Gao nced dismissively at the prime minister. "This is the court of the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty, is it not?" he replied arrogantly.


    "We are supposed to dissolve within a year because we displease Ying? Do you think other major powers do not ''displease Ying''s principles''?" the Dayou Emperor''s eyes glinted with a cold light.


    "The only sacred ce in theherworld, the Heiman Sacred Ground, has already received the same decree from a Great Qin envoy," Zhao Gao said with a hint of pride.


    Hearing this, the ministers were stunned, staring at Zhao Gao as if he were an idiot. Only a few high-ranking officials, who knew more, had their pupils contract in shock.


    "Hahaha! The Great Qin of the Yang World thinks it can control us? Dissolve the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty? You dare to dream!" the Dayou Emperor''s voice dripped with malice.


    "My Great Qin certainly has the ability to do so," Zhao Gao said confidently.


    Zhao Gao didn''t say ''right'' or ''authority,'' but ''ability,'' clearly showing his utmost confidence in Great Qin''s power.


    "Dissolve within a year? And if we don''t?" the Dayou Emperor''s eyes narrowed.


    "The Emperor said that if the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty is unwilling to dissolve, the Great Qin will assist in your dissolution," Zhao Gao replied calmly.


    "Arrogant!" the Dayou Emperor''s eyes widened with fury, clearly provoked by Ying''s audacity.


    "Guards, seize this madman and throw him into the dungeon!" the Dayou Prime Minister immediatelymanded.


    Zhao Gao remained unperturbed. As numerous guards rushed in from outside the hall, he casually tossed the Great Qin decree towards the Dayou Emperor.


    "Dayou Emperor, consider carefully before making any decision. You have one year. Whether you choose to cling to power or face death by the sword is entirely up to you," Zhao Gao said with a faint smile.


    With that, Zhao Gao''s figure suddenly vanished from the hall.


    His sudden disappearance caused the ministers to raise their eyebrows in surprise. He was so fast that only a few could see him leave.


    "Snap!" The Dayou Emperor caught the decree Zhao Gao had thrown.


    The ministers believed the recent events were a farce, but the Dayou Emperor and the heads of the four major families of the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty had their eyebrows furrowed in contemtion.


    Three Days Later, the Northern Dayou Heavenly Dynasty, Yijia''s Hunting Grounds


    In a grand hall within the Yijia family''s vast hunting grounds outside the city, Ynque entered, carrying a strange creature on his shoulder��a miniaturized Kunpeng, with the body of a fish and the wings of a roc.


    Ynque stepped into the hall, where a group of people stood with furrowed brows.


    "Father, I finally achieved my goal on this trip. I have sessfully tamed the Kunpeng. Now, I am its master!" Ynque said excitedly.


    Kunpeng? The members of Yijia turned their attention to the creature on Ynque''s shoulder.


    Seeing the Kunpeng, the Yijia members were astonished. Kunpeng? Ynque was only at the Imperial Extreme Realm; how could he tame a Kunpeng? Even the Yijia Patriarch, a Heavenly Extreme Realm expert, was stunned. A Kunpeng was something even he couldn''t tame��he would only have the option to flee if faced with one. Yet, Ynque had managed to tame such a powerful creature.


    The Yijia members looked at Ynque with a mixture of envy, jealousy, and respect.


    "Ynque, a significant event happened in the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty three days ago. Do you know about it?" the Yijia Patriarch asked.


    "A significant event? I''ve been busy taming the Kunpeng these past few days. What happened?" Ynque asked, raising an eyebrow.


    From the expressions of those present, Ynque sensed the gravity of the situation.


    "The Great Qin Heavenly Dynasty from the Yang World. Ying sent an envoy to our Dayou court to deliver a decree..." the Yijia members exined, and Ynque''s frown deepened as he listened.


    "What do you think?" the others asked Ynque.


    Ynque paced back and forth in the hall, his thoughts heavy. The others watched him intently as he paced for an incense stick''s time.


    Suddenly, Ynque looked seriously at the Yijia Patriarch.


    "Great Qin, I''ve studied them. This matter is not to be underestimated; it concerns the survival of our Yijia family. There''s something urgent that you need to investigate," Ynque said.


    "Ynque, mind your manners!" another man interjected.


    The Yijia Patriarch waved his hand dismissively. "It''s fine. If it''s about the survival of Yijia, Ynque wouldn''t make unfounded ims."


    Ynque nodded and continued, "This matter requires urgency. Go south to the Great Zheng Heavenly Dynasty, the Hell Tianjia, and the Heiman Sacred Ground. Investigate whether any ce other than our Dayou Heavenly Dynasty has received a simr decree from Ying. Be quick!"


    "Quick?"


    "Yes, I feel the long-dormant Great Qin is about to roar. We must act fast!"


    One Month Later, in the Same Hall


    "It''s true? The Heiman Sacred Ground also received a decree from Great Qin? The Great Zheng did not, and recently two Great Qin generals even assisted the Great Zheng in dealing with a group of peerless experts?" Ynque asked gravely.


    "Yes," the Yijia Patriarch confirmed.


    Ynque took a deep breath and looked at the powerful figures in the hall. "Although I don''t want to say this, the situation forces us to do so."


    "What do you propose?" the Yijia Patriarch asked, frowning.


    "The entire n must go into seclusion! Withdraw from the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty!" Ynque dered.


    "The entire n into seclusion?" the others responded in disbelief.


    "Isn''t that an exaggeration? Is Great Qin really that formidable?" the Yijia Patriarch asked.


    "Great Qin is only stronger than we can imagine," Ynque replied.


    "But what about Dayou?" asked one who couldn''t let go of their power.


    "Dayou has been under the protection of the Dayou Emperor for years. Inform him of my decision. He can either dissolve the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty or be a vassal of the Great Zheng Heavenly Dynasty. Otherwise, the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty will be destroyed," Ynque said with certainty.


    The gravity of Ynque''s words settled over the hall. The Yijia members understood the urgency and the magnitude of the threat that the Great Qin posed. The time for decisions was at hand, and their survival depended on swift and decisive action.


    One Year LaterIn the Netherworld, a Vast Open Area


    The ministers of Great Qin stood assembled.


    "The Dayou Heavenly Dynasty and the Heiman Sacred Ground have shown their defiance. Very well, General Wang Jian!" Li Simanded in a stern voice.


    "Present!" Wang Jian responded.


    "Lead your troops to the capital of the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty and erase it from history!" Li Si ordered.


    "What about the fate of their Qi luck?" Wang Jian asked.


    "Their Qi luck is none of our concern. Execute a swift victory and return to join the Emperor as soon as possible!" Li Si replied.


    "Yes, sir!" Wang Jian acknowledged.


    "General Meng Tian!" Li Si continued.


    "Present!" Meng Tian answered.


    "Lead your troops to the Heiman Sacred Ground and tten it. Extract the Qi luck of that sacred ce for the Emperor," Li Simanded.


    "Yes, sir!" Meng Tian replied.


    "Zhao Gao, you will remain here and await the Emperor''s arrival. I will proceed to the Tian family," Li Si said, looking at Zhao Gao.


    "Prime Minister Li, what is your purpose in going to the Tian family?" Zhao Gao asked, frowning.


    "First diplomacy, then force!" Li Si responded.


    In the Netherworld, the Tian Family, in a Bedroom


    "Hurry, bring more Life Springs! Fetch more Life Springs!" Tian Tangmanded the Tian family servants urgently.


    The servants quickly departed to carry out the order.


    Tian Tang gazed anxiously at Tiai, whoy on a jade bed, his face full of worry.


    "Third Brother, it''s no use. It''s been over a year. The Life Springs have extended my life by a year already, but I can feel my soul fading to its limits," Tiai said with difficulty.


    Tiai was in a horrific state, his flesh mangled and his appearance unrecognizable. It was as if Wang Jian''s sword had caused his entire body to disintegrate, leaving no skin intact.


    "I will take you out. Uncle Six will save you!" Tian Tang said, biting his lip.


    "I can''t leave. You know this from a year ago. With my injuries, if I forcefully leave the small thousand-world, the world barrier will crush me to pieces," Tiai replied, tears welling in his eyes.


    Tian Tang''s eyes turned red with anger and sorrow.


    "Third Brother, avenge me. It was Great Qin''s Wang Jian and Meng Tian who did this to me. I want Great Qin to be destroyed. I want Zhong Shan dead!" Tiai said weakly.


    With that, Tiai used up thest of his strength.


    "Roar~~~~~~!"


    Tian Tang let out a furious roar, his immense rage surging skyward and dispersing the clouds.


    Three Days Later, Yijia''s Hunting Grounds


    The Yijia family members took a sharp intake of breath.


    "I understand our Emperor. He will not choose either of the two options you mentioned," the Yijia Patriarch said, frowning.


    "Whether he does or not is his business. We have done our duty," Ynque replied, taking a deep breath.


    "Grandfather!" The Yijia members looked at the patriarch.


    "Listen to Ynque!" the patriarch decided immediately.


    The family members could only ept this reality.


    "Where will we go into seclusion?" the patriarch asked, frowning.


    "I will arrange everything. The uing events are beyond our Yijia family''s influence. For now, recall all core disciples of the family," Ynque instructed.


    "Very well."


    A year quickly passed.


    In a vast open area of theherworld, the ministers of Great Qin stood assembled.


    "The Dayou Heavenly Dynasty and the Heiman Sacred Ground have shown their defiance. Very well, General Wang Jian!" Li Simanded in a stern voice.


    "Present!" Wang Jian responded.


    "Lead your troops to the capital of the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty and erase it from history!" Li Si ordered.


    "What about the fate of their Qi luck?" Wang Jian asked.


    "Their Qi luck is none of our concern. Execute a swift victory and return to join the Emperor as soon as possible!" Li Si replied.


    "Yes, sir!" Wang Jian acknowledged.


    "General Meng Tian!" Li Si continued.


    "Present!" Meng Tian answered.


    "Lead your troops to the Heiman Sacred Ground and tten it. Extract the Qi luck of that sacred ce for the Emperor," Li Simanded.


    "Yes, sir!" Meng Tian replied.


    "Zhao Gao, you will remain here and await the Emperor''s arrival. I will proceed to the Tian family," Li Si said, looking at Zhao Gao.


    "Prime Minister Li, what is your purpose in going to the Tian family?" Zhao Gao asked, frowning.


    "First diplomacy, then force!" Li Si responded.


    In the Netherworld, the Tian Family, in a Bedroom


    "Hurry, bring more Life Springs! Fetch more Life Springs!" Tian Tangmanded the Tian family servants urgently.


    The servants quickly departed to carry out the order.


    Tian Tang gazed anxiously at Tiai, whoy on a jade bed, his face full of worry.


    "Third Brother, it''s no use. It''s been over a year. The Life Springs have extended my life by a year already, but I can feel my soul fading to its limits," Tiai said with difficulty.


    Tiai was in a horrific state, his flesh mangled and his appearance unrecognizable. It was as if Wang Jian''s sword had caused his entire body to disintegrate, leaving no skin intact.


    "I will take you out. Uncle Six will save you!" Tian Tang said, biting his lip.


    "I can''t leave. You know this from a year ago. With my injuries, if I forcefully leave the small thousand-world, the world barrier will crush me to pieces," Tiai replied, tears welling in his eyes.


    Tian Tang''s eyes turned red with anger and sorrow.


    "Third Brother, avenge me. It was Great Qin''s Wang Jian and Meng Tian who did this to me. I want Great Qin to be destroyed. I want Zhong Shan dead!" Tiai said weakly.


    With that, Tiai used up thest of his strength.


    "Roar~~~~~~!"


    Tian Tang let out a furious roar, his immense rage surging skyward and dispersing the clouds.


    In Yijia''s Hunting Grounds


    The members of the Yijia family gasped collectively.


    "I know our Emperor well. He won''t choose either of the two options you mentioned," the Yijia Patriarch said, frowning.


    "Whether he does or not is his business. We have fulfilled our duty," Ynque replied, taking a deep breath.


    "Grandfather!" The Yijia members looked at the patriarch.


    "Listen to Ynque!" the patriarch decided immediately.


    The family members could only ept this reality.


    "Where will we go into seclusion?" the patriarch asked, frowning.


    "I will arrange everything. The uing events are beyond our Yijia family''s influence. For now, recall all core disciples of the family," Ynque instructed.


    "Very well."


    The gravity of Ynque''s words settled over the hall. The Yijia members understood the urgency and the magnitude of the threat that the Great Qin posed. The time for decisions was at hand, and their survival depended on swift and decisive action.

 Chapter 780: Destroying the Tian Family

    <h4>Chapter 780: Destroying the Tian Family</h4>


    In the Netherworld, at the Tian Family''s Stronghold


    As Tian Tang''s rage soared to the heavens, a figure flew towards the perimeter of the Tian family grounds.


    Li Si stood outside the Tian familypound, observing the towering anger emanating from within. Such intense resentment!


    "Who goes there?" a Tian family disciple immediately called out.


    Li Si turned to look at the disciple. With a calm gaze, he regarded the disciple as if looking at a dead man.


    "Inform the head of the Tian family that the Prime Minister of Great Qin, Li Si, hase to visit," Li Si said.


    The Tian family disciple didn''t dare say more and quickly retreated to report to the new head of the Tian family.


    Li Si stood at the edge of the Tian family grounds, his gaze wandering over thepound as if deep in thought.


    In the midst of the countless ghosts swirling around the area, another figure appeared.


    Zhong Shan. Unbeknownst to anyone, Zhong Shan had arrived near the Tian family and was hiding stealthily.


    Li Si sensed something and looked in Zhong Shan''s direction.


    "Whoosh!"


    Like a phantom, Zhong Shan suddenly disappeared.


    Seeing no one there, Li Si turned his attention back to the Tian family.


    "An old acquaintance visiting needs no announcement. Li Si,e into the Tian family!" a loud voice suddenly called from within the Tian familypound.


    Old acquaintance? Li Si''s expression changed.


    What old acquaintance did he have? Li Si''s acquaintances were from eight thousand years ago!


    With a hint of confusion, Li Si stepped forward and soon arrived at the gates of the Tian family. This time, no disciples dared to stop him, allowing Li Si to enter freely.


    It wasn''t long before Li Si reached the source of the voice: the Tian Pulse Hall.


    Inside the Tian Pulse Hall were only two people: Tian Chenzi and the new head of the Tian family.


    "It''s you, Tian Chenzi?" Li Si''s face changed.


    "Li Si? It''s been eight thousand years. I remember ourst meeting, you couldn''tst ten moves against me," Tian Chenzi said with a faint smile.


    "Old man, you''re still alive? Why are you still in this small thousand-world?" Li Si''s expression shifted.


    "Aren''t you also in the small thousand-world?" Tian Chenzi said, looking at Li Si with a hint of seriousness.


    "I understand now. You didn''t live this long; you''ve been reincarnated multiple times through the Jingbo Pond, stubbornly staying in this small thousand-world!" Li Si quickly deduced.


    Tian Chenzi frowned, seemingly realizing that this secret, unknown to anyone, had been seen through by Li Si in an instant.


    "Speak, what do you want with my Tian family?" Tian Chenzi asked gravely.


    Looking at Tian Chenzi, Li Si smiled wickedly. "The Emperor is about to arrive. Prepare to wee him!"


    "Ying? Where has your Great Qin been for these eight thousand years? How have you survived without reincarnation?" Tian Chenzi asked sternly, a hint of malice in his tone.


    "When the Emperor arrives, you''ll find out," Li Si said, retreating towards the exit.


    Just as he stepped out of the hall.


    "A member of Great Qin? Thinking of leaving so soon?" a cold voice called from outside the Tian Pulse Hall.


    Li Si turned to see a man in a white robe, holding a pure white feather with a venomous look in his eyes.


    It was a feather asrge as a ntain fan, radiating a soft white light filled with sanctity.


    "A celestial artifact?" Li Si''s pupils constricted.


    Chapter 780: Destroying the Tian FamilyIn the Netherworld, at the Tian Family''s Stronghold


    "What are you doing, Tian Chenzi?" Li Si asked coldly.


    "It''s none of my business. This is Tian Tang from the Tian family of the Grand Thousand World. What he does has nothing to do with me," Tian Chenzi said with a smile.


    "Nothing to do with you? In your own Tian family, and it has nothing to do with you?" Li Si retorted, darting towards the outside.


    "Stop!" Tian Tang''s feather waved towards Li Si.


    Suddenly, the sky turned milky white, and Li Si seemed to be trapped in a vast quagmire, surrounded by spatial vortices.


    Li Si''s body twisted rapidly, but his movements became extremely slow.


    "Futile. I will thoroughly torment you. Great Qin? I will ensure that every member suffers the most brutal punishment," Tian Tang''s voice was icy.


    "Indeed, it''s a fine treasure. I want that feather," Li Si, struggling, suddenly mocked.


    "Hahaha, facing death, you still covet my treasure?" Tian Tangughed in anger.


    "With your current sealed power, you can''t harm me, but you also can''t kill me!" Li Si stated with absolute certainty.


    "Is that so? Let''s test that theory!"


    "Kill~~~!"


    Outside the Tian family, a massive roar echoed.


    Under the roar, a terrifying sword formed of pure killing intent shed towards the Tian family.


    "Boom~~~!"


    The protective formation around the Tian family shattered under the immense force, as if the entire Tian family was being split in two.


    With a fierce sh, Tian Tang was forced to retreat.


    "Boom!"


    The area around the Tian Pulse Hall crumbled into ruins, allowing Li Si to escape and soar into the sky.


    Another figure suddenly appeared beside Li Si.


    "White General has arrivedte; Prime Minister, please forgive me!" the neer said immediately.


    "General Bai Qi, I have a request!" Li Si said.


    "Prime Minister, please speak."


    "I want that feather he''s holding. Please, General Bai Qi, kill him and retrieve the feather for me!" Li Si said, staring at Tian Tang with a smile.


    "A trivial matter. Consider it done," Bai Qi replied promptly.


    Bai Qi raised his sword again, shing towards Tian Tang.


    Tian Tang waved his feather at Bai Qi.


    "Boom~~~!"


    Arge ck hole appeared around them, but Tian Tang was sent flying by Bai Qi''s sh.


    "Still alive after that?" Bai Qi said in surprise, pursuing Tian Tang.


    Tian Tang''s eyes widened in shock. Who was this person?


    "Boom!"


    Bai Qi shed again, and Tian Tang fled, with Bai Qi in hot pursuit.


    In just two rounds ofbat, Tian Tang was already on the defensive, fleeing. The power of Great Qin''s killing god was overwhelming.


    After just two exchanges, the Tian family was left in ruins. The intense killing intent from Bai Qi had even frozen to death some of the lower-level cultivators.


    "Li Si, what exactly does Great Qin want?" Tian Chenzi asked angrily.


    Throughout the ordeal, Tian Chenzi had refrained from direct action, seemingly wary of Great Qin.


    "Eight thousand years ago, I wasn''t your match. Eight thousand yearster, try taking a hit from me now!" Li Si''s demeanor shifted, turning more aggressive.


    In recognizing Tian Chenzi, Li Si initially considered retreating, but now he no longer needed to. Bai Qi''s arrival signaled that the strongmen of Great Qin had all arrived.


    "Do you think you can defeat me?" Tian Chenzi smirked, a confident gleam in his eyes.


    Li Si extended his palm, pushing it forward slowly. As he did, a massive ck hand appeared in the void. The space around the ck hand trembled violently, shaking more intensely until, "Crack!"��a huge fissure appeared.


    The immense pressure bore down on Tian Chenzi, whose eyes narrowed. A powerful aura erupted from him, pushing all the Tian family disciples away. Tian Chenzi raised his hand and conjured a golden palm in the void.


    The golden palm shattered the void and collided with Li Si''s ck palm.


    "Boom!"


    The surrounding space shattered. In the ensuing ck hole, the ck giant palm of Li Si shed with Tian Chenzi''s golden palm. They remained locked in ce, the sheer force preventing the ck hole from closing.


    Li Si''s face paled, while Tian Chenzi''s expression turned solemn.


    "Is this your limit?" Li Si, his face ashen, asked Tian Chenzi.


    "You couldn''t defeat me eight thousand years ago, and you still can''t now!" Tian Chenzi sneered.


    "You''re wrong. I''ve already measured your limits. You''ve grown in these eight thousand years, but you still can''t surpass me," Li Si said, a trace of blood seeping from his mouth.


    "Hmph!" Tian Chenzi snorted.


    "Bang!"


    Li Si was struck by Tian Chenzi and sent flying. As he flew backward, he spat out a mouthful of blood but seemed more relieved than defeated.


    As Li Si was thrown from the ck hole, Tian Chenzi stepped forward in pursuit.


    In a secluded corner, the new head of the Tian family watched the confrontation. Suddenly, he felt a chilling presence that made his hair stand on end.


    "sh!"


    The new head of the Tian family looked down incredulously at his chest, where a hand had pierced through. Yet, there was no one behind him. Where did this hande from?


    As he copsed, he saw something strange��his shadow seemed to sprout a man.


    Zhong Shan?


    "You!" the head of the Tian family gasped in despair.


    "When Tian Xiaozi died, he didn''t see the Tian Pulse Sword. Since the Jingbo Pond has been given to Ying, the Tian Pulse Sword naturally belongs to me," Zhong Shan said, bending down to pick up the Tian Pulse Sword from the dying man''s hand.


    With the sword in hand, Zhong Shan didn''t linger and swiftly retreated.


    In the distance, Li Si, still airborne from Tian Chenzi''s strike, was caught by someone.


    "Boom!"


    Li Si was caught by Ying, who wore a dragon robe and a t crown. Behind him stood a group of Great Qin''s elite warriors.


    "Tian Chenzi, you''re still alive," Ying said calmly.


    At the sight of Ying, the murderous intent in Tian Chenzi''s eyes vanished.


    "Your Majesty, I have failed you," Li Si said, ashamed.


    Ying took out a small bottle and handed it to Li Si. "This is a Nine-Turn Golden Pill, refined by Xu Fu. You haven''t failed me. You managed to withstand that strike while still under several seals. You''ve improved significantly over the years."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," Li Si said gratefully.


    By then, Bai Qi had returned, dragging his sword behind him.


    "Prime Minister Li, here''s the ''celestial artifact'' you wanted. Unfortunately, that guy escaped to the Grand Thousand World," Bai Qi said, handing over the feather Tian Tang had used.


    "Thank you!"


    Bai Qi nodded in acknowledgment.


    The group''s attention returned to Tian Chenzi.


    Tian Chenzi eyed the white feather in Li Si''s hand, his gaze then shifting to Ying.


    "Ying, what do you want? Why are you causing trouble for my Tian family?" Tian Chenzi demanded.


    "Take one strike from me. If you survive, I''ll let you leave," Ying said nonchntly.

 Chapter 781: Great Qin鈥檚 Impending Departure

    <h4>Chapter 781: Great Qin''s Impending Departure</h4>


    Netherworld, Former Tian Family Stronghold


    A massive ck hole enveloped the Tian family''s stronghold, obliterating everything within it. At the edge of the ck hole, a blood-soaked figure shot away into the distance.


    Tian Chenzi, though gravely injured, had survived Ying''s strike and managed to escape. Without daring to look back, he dragged his mangled body and vanished from sight.


    As the ck hole slowly receded, the once formidable Tian family stronghold was no more. What emerged from the void was Ying and a group of Great Qin''s formidable warriors.


    Ying held a small white object, resembling a shell, which he carefully ced into his sleeve.


    "The Tian family is destroyed, the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty is destroyed, the Heiman Sacred Ground is destroyed. Your Majesty, have we overstepped?" Li Si asked, frowning.


    "No, this is exactly what we needed to do," Ying responded firmly.


    "Indeed?" Li Si questioned.


    "Have the armies of the Great Zheng begun their march?" Ying asked with a smile.


    "They definitely started moving north a month ago. Zhong Shan is always quick to act when there''s profit involved," Li Si replied with a chuckle.


    "You don''t fully understand Zhong Shan. He knows when to advance and when to retreat," Ying said seriously.


    "Oh?"


    "The Immortal Realm in the Yang World aside, Zhong Shan knows the reality outside this small thousand-world. He understands the challenges he''ll face once the heavens open. If I didn''t clear the obstacles for him in the Netherworld, he might even choose to abandon the idea of opening the heavens and leave with his ministers," Ying exined.


    "Your Majesty is wise. Even if we hadn''t eliminated the three major forces in the Netherworld, Zhong Shan would have eventually had the power to do so. However, by clearing them out, we''ve made it easier for him to decide to stay and open the heavens. It''s like adding weight to a bnce scale��by removing these threats, we''ve made it more worthwhile for him to stay and open the heavens," Li Si realized.


    Ying nodded.


    Indeed, the armies of the Great Zheng had long since begun their march, not just a month ago as Li Si suggested, but a full year prior. Initially, it was not the main forces, but numerous covert units and the Da Rong Merchant Association preparing for the uing war.


    Now, the main forces were also mobilizing. Led by Lin Xiao, Yan Chongzhi, Zhao Suoxiang, and Shui Jing, the Northern Expedition had begun.


    Six monthster, the Netherworld was in an uproar. The three major forces had been wiped out by Great Qin in one fell swoop. This news spread fear and panic among the northern dynasties.


    The dissolution decree from Great Qin was no secret. Many in the other dynasties hadughed at it, thinking, "How can a heavenly dynasty from the Yang World have such a long reach?"


    They thought it was impossible. How many people could Great Qin send down? How could they defeat an entire heavenly dynasty? And how dare they challenge a sacred ground as well?


    Did they think they were the Great Zheng?


    Even the Great Zheng hadn''t been this audacious when dealing with the Immortal Realm.


    People dismissed the decree as absurd.


    But reality proved otherwise. Not only was the Dayou Heavenly Dynasty destroyed, but the Heiman Sacred Ground and even the Tian family, the strongest recognized force in the Netherworld, were also obliterated.


    Many found it hard to ept this reality. How could it be possible?


    <strong>Is the Great Qin Dynasty really this perverse? Is this still a celestial empire?</strong>


    People were in a state of panic, and the major dynasties were on high alert. Yet, the Great Qin did not send any troops. Moreover, why was the Great Xuan Dynasty unscathed? Could it be that the Great Qin couldn''t deal with the Great Xuan Dynasty?


    <strong>Is the Great Xuan Dynasty really that formidable?</strong>


    Not only was the Great Xuan Dynasty unharmed, but it even mobilized troops from the south to attack the north.


    People were bewildered. They only knew that the Great Qin was incredibly strong, exceedingly strong, yet the Great Xuan wasn''t yielding to the Great Qin?


    <strong>Just how strong is this Great Xuan Dynasty?</strong>


    <strong>In the mortal realm, in the Taishui Celestial Dynasty,</strong>


    Within Kong Lietian''s study stood Kong Lietian, Ye Qingcheng, Sekong, and Wang Chen.


    "This is the situation in theherworld. The Great Qin has destroyed three major powers, and they are overwhelmingly dominant!" Ye Qingcheng said gravely.


    "Are you sure?" Kong Lietian''s brows furrowed deeply.


    "I received another talisman from the ancestor and sent someone to theherworld to prepare for the reconstruction of the Immortal Realm. Unexpectedly, we received this news. It''s absolutely true!" Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "Indeed, the Great Qin is full of mysteries, and so is the Great Xuan. Over a year ago, Zhong Shan personally went to the Sacred Capital of Xianyang in Great Qin. Could the Great Qin and Great Xuan have formed an alliance?" Sekong raised an eyebrow.


    "That''s unlikely. The Great Qin is so powerful; why would it need to ally with the Great Xuan?" Ye Qingcheng shook his head.


    "Why? It''s clear that the Great Qin and Great Xuan want to deal with us! The Great Qin destroyed three major powers in theherworld, and the Great Xuan took advantage of this and became the biggest winner. In less than fifty years, the Great Xuan will undoubtedly unify theherworld! They intend to confront us!" Sekong''s words grew increasingly convincing.


    Kong Lietian''s face turned slightly somber.


    "Wang Chen, you''ve been frowning all along. What do you think?" Kong Lietian looked at Wang Chen.


    Wang Chen frowned and said, "A few days ago, I seemed to have heard the emperor and Sekong mention something about a grand formation appearing in the Sacred Capital of Xianyang?"


    "Yes, a Hongru Academy has settled in the Sacred Capital of Xianyang. We just gathered this information. It used to be the residence of Guiguzi, and it seems like they are setting up some grand formation, with purple energy soaring into the sky," Sekong immediately said.


    "Emperor, can you guess what kind of formation it is?" Wang Chen frowned.


    "What do you think?" Kong Lietian looked at Wang Chen, clearly unable to guess himself.


    "I can''t guess what kind of formation it is either, but I have a strange feeling!" Wang Chen said.


    "Oh?"


    "The Great Qin''s ambitions do not lie in this world!" Wang Chen stated solemnly.


    "What do you mean by ''ambitions do not lie in this world''?"


    "Based on the information obtained by Lord Ye Qingcheng, the Great Qin is extremely powerful, exceedingly powerful. This Ying might even be more formidable than the ancient Shen Tong. Why did he allow Shen Tong to establish his own world back then? Moreover, when the three major celestial dynasties besieged the Bliss Pure Land, attacking a sacrednd, Ying was only a third of the power? How could he destroy the sacrednd in theherworld with just a few generals? It doesn''t make sense!" Wang Chen shook his head.


    "I''ll exin. Although the sacrednd of the Netherworld Hei Mang was strong, it was not as strong as the sacrednd in the mortal realm. Secondly, the Return to Origin Buddha in the Bliss Pure Land was a formidable expert in the Twelve Realms of Heaven. That''s why it was once hailed as the number one sacrednd," Ye Qingcheng shook his head.


    "Even so, the difference shouldn''t be that vast. And how do you exin Shen Tong establishing his own world?" Wang Chen looked at Ye Qingcheng.


    Ye Qingcheng also frowned.


    "Continue!" Kong Lietian looked at Wang Chen.


    "Yes, ording to the information we''ve gathered, this Great Qin is exactly the same Great Qin from eighty thousand years ago. As for how it exists, I don''t know. But I specte that Ying''s power has been continuously increasing during this period, and the overall strength of the Great Qin has been rapidly recovering. During the siege of the Bliss Pure Land, it wasn''t as strong as it is now," Wang Chen said.


    "Hmm!" Everyone nodded.


    "I have a bold spection: the Great Qin is about to leave this world!" Wang Chen took a deep breath and said.


    "What?" Ye Qingcheng''s pupils shrank, disbelief written all over his face.


    Sekong also looked surprised, while Kong Lietian frowned in thought, casting a doubtful nce at Wang Chen.


    "Moreover, it won''t be long before the Great Qin departs. This would somewhat exin everything. Theherworld? The Great Qin doesn''t care about it, giving it to Zhong Shan just to bolster him. They want to ensure that after their departure, our Taishui Celestial Dynasty and the Immortal Realm won''t have an easy time!" Wang Chen said gravely.


    After Wang Chen finished speaking, everyone looked incredulous amidst their astonishment.


    "Can you be sure?" Kong Lietian asked in a deep voice.


    "I cannot be certain; it is merely a guess. I hope Your Majesty will judge wisely!" Wang Chen immediately said.


    The group fell silent. After a moment of silence, Kong Lietian took a deep breath and revealed a wicked smile, "The Great Qin leaving? That''s good. Originally, I was worried about the Great Qin. If they leave, the world will be much clearer. The Great Xuan? Let''s see how you contend with me!"


    "Sekong, inform all the Hongru Academies to keep a close watch on every move of the Great Qin!" Kong Lietianmanded in a deep voice.


    "Yes!"


    "How is Daojun Shenya now?" Kong Lietian looked at Ye Qingcheng.


    "Still in seclusion!" Ye Qingcheng replied.


    "Notify your ancestor for me; I want to see him!" Kong Lietian thought for a moment and said.


    "My ancestor has instructed that he doesn''t wish to see you at the moment!" Ye Qingcheng said.


    Kong Lietian''s face turned ugly.


    A yearter.


    Great Qin Dynasty, Sacred Capital of Xianyang. In Ying''s study.


    Ying stood with his hands behind his back, looking at severalrge maps on the wall.


    Li Si entered the study and bowed respectfully to Ying.


    "Your Majesty, the gentleman asked me to deliver a message." Li Si said respectfully.


    "Has Guiguzi''s side made all the preparations?" Ying did not turn around.


    "Yes, everything is ready!" Li Si nodded.


    "Hmm, then let Bai Qi bring back those newly trained elite Great Qin troops. It''s time to leave!" Ying said.


    "Yes."


    "What''s the situation with the two celestial dynasties, the Great Xuan and the Taishui?" Ying continued to ask.


    "Zhong Shan has withdrawn all members of the Great Rong Merchant Guild. There isn''t a single scout from the Great Xuan near Xianyang. The Taishui is quite the opposite; those academies are bing increasingly active, as if they know we are about to leave." Li Si said.


    "Oh?"


    Ying turned around to look at Li Si.


    "Not only the academies near the Sacred Capital of Xianyang but also those in other cities. The deans of those academies are colluding with the dignitaries of each city, their intentions obvious, just waiting for our Great Qin to leave, then the Taishui Celestial Dynasty will march eastward!" Li Si sneered.


    "The mind of a ruler, Kong Lietian is far inferior to Zhong Shan!" Ying said with a faint smile.


    "Then, Your Majesty, should we..." A hint of killing intent shed in Li Si''s eyes.


    "Hmm, go ahead. Since these schrs from the academies are restless, use the old method and execute them!" Ying nodded.


    "Yes!" Li Si''s eyes lit up.

 Chapter 782: Raising a Mouse

    <h4>Chapter 782: Raising a Mouse</h4>


    Zhong Shan looked up at the sky!


    A group of powerful beings was already lingering outside the Small Thousand World, just waiting for the heavens to open?


    "Tomorrow, you all will go to theherworld and see if you still feel that locked-in sensation there!" Zhong Shan said with a frown.


    "Hmm!" The four women nodded.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s pupils constricted.


    He sensed that someone was calcting his fate? Calcting him?


    Ever since he obtained the Heavenly Secrets Diagram from Ying, Zhong Shan had been trying to decipher and practice it.


    The Heavenly Secrets Diagram contained a cultivation method called ''Heavenly Secrets **.''


    There were five levels of the Heavenly Secrets **, though few, they were extremely powerful.


    The first level allowed one to sense all calctions from those below the Celestial Immortal realm.


    The fifth level could even sense the calctions of Saints.


    The day Zhong Shan understood the cultivation method, he began practicing it.


    Even though he only mastered the first level, he could ensure that anyone below the Celestial Immortal realm who tried to calcte him would be sensed.


    In other words, anyone in the Small Thousand World attempting to calcte Zhong Shan, whether it was Ying, Guiguzi, or Kong Xuan from the Immortal Realm, would be detected by him. Although their power far exceeded that of Celestial Immortals, in the Small Thousand World, they forcibly suppressed their fate to within the Celestial Immortal level.


    At the same time, he could disrupt the surrounding heavenly secrets, preventing them from continuing their calctions.


    But Zhong Shan didn''t stop there; he channeled this sensing ability into the Red Luan Pink Lotus.


    The Red Luan Pink Lotus turned blue!


    A great cmity?


    A sign of great cmity? Who is plotting against me? Who in this world can plot against me?


    "Tomorrow, I will go with you to theherworld!" Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "Hmm!"


    The next day, Zhong Shan''s main body and the four women arrived in theherworld, while his shadow body stepped into the mortal realm.


    "I still feel it!" Bei Qingsi frowned.


    "Me too!" Tian Ling''er immediately said.


    Gu Qianyou and Gan Bao''er exchanged a nce.


    "We all feel it. It hasn''t changed. Even in theherworld, those supreme experts are still watching us?" Gu Qianyou frowned.


    "The experts outside the Small Thousand World are too powerful!" Bao''er nodded.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan''s heart grew extremely heavy.


    The Red Luan Pink Lotus in his mind was still blue. Moreover, his shadow body also sensed someone calcting him, meaning someone was simultaneously calcting both his main body and shadow body? They weren''t calcting based on location?


    Zhong Shan returned to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court with the women.


    After settling the women, Zhong Shan walked alone to the study, contemting the dire situation.


    Dire, extremely dire. In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, even with the power of the Great Xuan''s world at his disposal, the Red Luan Pink Lotus still showed signs of great cmity?


    Who could cause such an exaggerated effect?


    Kong Xuan? Zhong Shan thought of Kong Xuan first. Could Kong Xuan be targeting him? Had Kong Xuan changed his principles and decided to deal with him?


    What should he do?


    Zhong Shan sat in his study for three days. During these three days, he didn''t attend court sessions, just sat in the study, leaving the ministers puzzled. This wasn''t like the Emperor; he usually gave prior notice if something was up.


    Finally, on the morning of the fourth day, Zhong Shan thought of a viable solution.


    Outside the study stood several key ministers.


    "Yi Yan, Wang Ku, y Buddha, Mr. Corpse,e in!" Zhong Shan called out.


    Soon, the four ministers entered the hall.


    "Your Majesty?" The four of them looked at Zhong Shan curiously.


    "Wang Ku, y Buddha, Mr. Corpse, can any of you make ''life ques''?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Life ques were a peculiar kind of item used by the subordinates of the Celestial Immortal Sima Ce; if one person died, one que would explode.


    The ques did not affect the bearer''s life force, but upon their death, the que would explode. It was very unusual.


    "I can!" Wang Ku suddenly said.


    "I can as well!" Mr. Corpse and y Buddha both said.


    "Oh?"


    "However, the materials are very expensive," Wang Ku frowned.


    "Expensive? No matter how expensive, our Great Xuan can afford it!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!" The ministers looked at Zhong Shan in surprise.


    "But I want to make life ques for mice. Can you do it?" Zhong Shan stared at the ministers.


    "Life ques for mice?" The ministers were stunned.


    "Just ordinary mice, can you do it?" Zhong Shan looked at them.


    "It''s possible, but isn''t that a bit of a waste?" Wang Ku said strangely.


    "It''s not a waste as long as it works!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Your Majesty, what are we to do?" Yi Yan frowned.


    "Raising mice!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Raising mice?" The ministers looked at Zhong Shan strangely.


    "I want to create a long-distancemunication device for our Great Xuan, one that can transmit messages instantly, no matter how far apart we are, even if it usually takes a year and a half to travel the distance!" Zhong Shan said.


    "How could such a thing exist?" Wang Ku said skeptically.


    "All we need is a small booklet, and that will be enough!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    Yi Yan''s eyes suddenly lit up, as if he understood.


    "Your Majesty, your talent is extraordinary! I am in awe!" Yi Yan said with a mixture of astonishment and admiration.


    The others were still puzzled.


    "Yi Yan, you understand? Exin it to them," Zhong Shan looked at Yi Yan.


    "Yes, we just need each person to have a small booklet, filled with different characters. At the same time, we carry a batch of life ques with us. If we need to send a message, we kill the mice in three batches, corresponding to the characters in the booklet," Yi Yan said.


    "Kill the mice?"


    "Precisely. Kill the mice in specific numbers with pauses in between. For example, if the first batch has three mice, the second batch four mice, and the third batch five mice, it corresponds to the character on the third page, fourth row, and fifth character in the booklet," Yi Yan said excitedly.


    Wang Ku''s skeletal jaw dropped. Could messages really be transmitted this way?


    Mr. Corpse and y Buddha also brightened up.


    "We are impressed!" The ministers said respectfully.


    "Excellent! That''s exactly the n. I have a major project that needs your cooperation toplete. But first, we need to establish thismunication system. Yi Yan and Wang Ku, you two will be responsible forpiling the booklets and creating the life ques!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" Yi Yan and Wang Ku immediately responded.


    "A grand n? What grand n does Your Majesty have in mind?" Yi Yan asked with a frown.


    "Let''splete this first step first. It must be done quickly and must be tested multiple times to ensure it is foolproof. Also, remember to keep this confidential; it cannot be disclosed yet!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!"


    "Lu Jianping,e in!" Zhong Shan called again.


    Outside the study, many ministers were gathered, among them Lu Jianping, who was supervising the construction of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. He stepped forward with a hint of confusion and entered the study.


    "Minister Lu Jianping pays respects to Your Majesty. Long live Your Majesty!"


    "Lu Jianping!"


    "I am here!"


    "I now order you to move the Lingxiao Heavenly Court to the vicinity of the South Sea within five months!" Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "Move the capital?" Yi Yan and the others showed looks of surprise.


    "I obey the decree!" Lu Jianping immediately epted the order.


    Moving the capital to the South Sea? What is the Emperor nning?


    And what is this grand n the Emperor mentioned? How is it rted to the mousemunication system?


    The ministers did not ask more questions, but they could all see the seriousness in Zhong Shan''s demeanor. There was definitely a significant matter at hand, a matter of great importance that warranted such solemnity from the Emperor.


    Indeed, it was a matter of great importance.


    Originally, Zhong Shan thought he had a long time before facing Kong Xuan, but it turned out that Kong Xuan was already calcting his fate. Based on the reaction of the Red Luan Pink Lotus, it was a sign of great cmity.


    Zhong Shan did not disrupt the surrounding heavenly secrets because he knew that avoiding the problem wouldn''t solve it. Disrupting the heavenly secrets would not help and might even cause greater losses. Now, by exposing the location of both his main body and shadow body to Kong Xuan''s "sight," he could better confuse Kong Xuan.


    Kong Xuan also knew that it was not yet time to deal with Zhong Shan. As long as Ying remained in this world, Kong Xuan wouldn''t make a move because Ying''s goal was well understood. During his time in this world, Ying wouldn''t help anyone nor sit idly by if Kong Xuan tried to destroy Zhong Shan.


    Kong Xuan wasn''t afraid of Ying, but he wasn''t ready to sh with him yet. A confrontation between them would likely force both out of this world, just like what happened with Ying and Tianshenzi. Neither wanted to exert full effort in such a battle. Kong Xuan still needed to heal or had other enemies in the Great Thousand World, and more importantly, he had something to protect.


    Therefore, Kong Xuan could only attempt to kill Zhong Shan after Ying left.


    With some time left, Zhong Shan needed to n a strategy to deal with Kong Xuan.


    Kong Xuan! He was not someone Zhong Shan could confront head-on for now!


    Zhong Shan kept the ominous sign to himself, not telling anyone, and carried on as usual. The Lingxiao Heavenly Court moved towards the South Sea. Yi Yan, Wang Ku, and the others sessfully developed the mousemunication method.


    The life ques were costly, but Zhong Shan didn''t mind the expense. What did it matter? In the future, this world would be his, and there would be nothing he couldn''t afford.


    During these six months, the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail devoured the newly obtained ''Heavenly Vein Sword,'' a true Celestial Immortal artifact from the Tian family in theherworld, an unparalleled immortal weapon.


    Yet, even with this, Zhong Shan''s cultivation only advanced by one level.


    The sixth level of the Heaven''s Extremes! The agonizingly slow pace of advancement.


    Zhong Shan looked at the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail with a strange expression. An immortal weapon only increased his level by one; what would he do for future cultivation?


    The day of Ying''s departure was drawing closer. By now, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court had settled above the South Sea. No one knew the reason except Zhong Shan himself.


    Both Zhong Shan''s main body and shadow body arrived at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. At this moment, even without sensing through the Heavenly Secrets **, the Red Luan Pink Lotus was showing a sign of great cmity.


    Whether the shadow body went to observe the Great Qin while the main body remained at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court or vice versa, the result was the same: great cmity.


    Feeling the weight of the situation, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and made a decisive choice.


    The main body would go to the Great Qin, and the shadow body would remain at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Zhong Shan, why has your other bodye to the mortal realm? Why is the Lingxiao Heavenly Court hovering over the South Sea?" Di Xuansha, standing beside Zhong Shan, frowned.


    "This is a long story. Let''s head to the Great Qin first; I''ll exin on the way," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "Hmm!" Di Xuansha nodded.


    From Zhong Shan''s deeply furrowed brows, Di Xuansha could sense the gravity of the situation. No one could understand the pressure Zhong Shan was under.


    Kong Xuan. Facing Kong Xuan? Zhong Shan hadn''t anticipated facing this formidable opponent so soon.

 Chapter 783: Ying and the Great Power

    <h4>Chapter 783: Ying and the Great Power</h4>


    Daojun Shenya looked at the numerous powerful beings from the Immortal Realm.


    "Ye Qingcheng, the safety of the Immortal Realm is entirely entrusted to you!" Daojun Shenya said gravely.


    "Rest assured, Realm Master, Qingcheng will not make any more mistakes," Ye Qingcheng replied respectfully.


    "Mm!" Daojun Shenya nodded.


    Turning around, Daojun Shenya, with the Immortal-ying Gourd on his back, stepped out of the Immortal Realm, followed by a man in purple carrying the Executioner Sword. The man''s face was expressionless, his eyes lifeless yet unnervingly sharp. Upon closer inspection, one would realize this was the Toad Supreme, Toad Lai, but his demeanor hadpletely changed, as if he had be another person, someone with a restrained yet intense aura of killing intent.


    On the way to the Great Qin, Zhong Shan and Di Xuansha flew together.


    "Are you so sure that Kong Xuan will head straight for the Lingxiao Heavenly Court?" Di Xuansha frowned.


    "I''m certain," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Why?"


    "Firstly, the Immortal Realm would want to annihte both of my bodies simultaneously. Kong Xuan would undoubtedly tackle the more challenging target. The Lingxiao Heavenly Court can leverage the power of the Great Xuan, so Kong Xuan will definitely go there.


    "Secondly, Kong Xuan does not want to confront Ying now, so he won''t choose to go to the Great Qin.


    "Thirdly, although Kong Xuan can calcte, his calctions have limitations. He cannot fully understand me yet."


    Di Xuansha nodded at the first two points but looked at Zhong Shan curiously at the third. "Kong Xuan doesn''t understand you? Even I, who have watched you grow, don''t fully understand you. How could others?"


    "As long as it''s not Kong Xuan, we won''t have any problems on this trip," Di Xuansha said.


    "Indeed!" Zhong Shan agreed.


    <strong>Great Qin, Sacred Capital of Xianyang.</strong>


    A vast city, with slightly elevated corners, filled with elite troops handpicked by Ying. Countless golden lotuses floated in the sky.


    These lotuses were peculiar, seemingly made of pure energy yet appearing real, decorating the already magnificent Xianyang with a dreamlike quality.


    Numerous dragons flew in the sky. Somended in the city, while others were repelled.


    Ao Sihai stood in the southern part of the Sacred Capital.


    "Ao Sihai, are you sure you won''te with us?" Li Si frowned at Ao Sihai.


    "Hahaha, Ying has gone too far. Follow you? Dawei, who once betrayed the dragon n to be the Great Weitianlong Bodhisattva of the Bliss Pure Land, his cultivation is inferior to mine, yet you want me to serve him?" Ao Sihai red.


    "This was my decision, unrted to His Majesty. Our Great Qin is destined for eternal prosperity. Authority isn''t based solely on cultivation. Dawei Tianlong may have lesser cultivation than you, but his potential surpasses yours, and his vision is broader. I am never wrong!" Li Si said sternly.


    "Hmph!" Ao Sihai snorted coldly.


    "Ao Sihai, I''ll ask again. Will youe with us?" Li Si asked once more.


    "Too much! Too much!" Ao Sihai flung his sleeve and flew away.


    Many dragons, seeing their supreme leave, also flew away. However, many stayed, having been convinced by the Great Qin.


    Watching Ao Sihai leave, Li Si showed no regret. He flicked his sleeve and flew back into the city.


    In the Sacred Capital of Xianyang, the former residence of Guiguzi, situated in the northern part of the city, was now enveloped in a grand array emitting a strong purple light, continuously gathering terrifying energy.


    The energy umtion increased over time. This grand array had been gathering energy for three months, absorbing energy from all directions, which then swirled above Xianyang in ordance with special rules before being drawn into the array.


    Golden lotuses appeared from all directions on the third day after the grand array was activated. Zhong Shan, apanied by Di Xuansha, arrived at the Sacred Capital of Xianyang three days in advance. The magnificent scene before them was breathtaking, and Zhong Shan could even smell a rich, exotic fragrance in the air.


    The two did not enter the Sacred Capital but instead found a mountain peak nearby to settle on.


    On another peak in the distance, Daojun Shenya arrived a dayter, apanied by Kong Lietian and Toad Lai.


    Kong Lietian gazed intently at Zhong Shan from afar. This was their fifth encounter. In the previous meetings, Zhong Shan had always seemed like someone he could easily crush, yet now he had grown so much. Kong Lietian thought he should have eliminated Zhong Shan back then, but now it didn''t matter. This time, Zhong Shan was doomed.


    Daojun Shenya nced at Zhong Shan and then at Di Xuansha, his brows slightly furrowing. Since his cultivation breakthrough, Daojun Shenya''s perception had be more profound. Seeing Di Xuansha now, he realized Di Xuansha had also grown stronger. Could he have misjudged him before?


    Toad Lai, who seemed like a different person, stood still, exuding sword aura with the Executioner Sword on his back.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan and Kong Lietian locked eyes, a sharp killing intent shing between them. Then Zhong Shan looked at the other two.


    The Immortal-ying Gourd on Daojun Shenya''s back had changed slightly, now adorned with colorful patterns, making it look more enchanting. As for Toad Lai, Zhong Shan suddenly felt a sense of unease.


    This Toad Lai, historically a minor yer, now seemed incredibly sharp.


    "Toad Lai has been possessed," Di Xuansha said with a frown.


    "Possessed?" Zhong Shan''s eyes showed a hint of confusion.


    "He''s been possessed by the Executioner Sword. The sword''s spirit has taken control of Toad Lai. It''s not Toad Lai wielding the sword; it''s the sword wielding Toad Lai. He has be a puppet, and this also means the sword''s full power will be on disy," Di Xuansha exined gravely.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded, a serious look in his eyes.


    Both sides stared at each other, but the Red Luan Pink Lotus in Zhong Shan''s brow showed no change, still indicating great cmity.


    Inside the Sacred Capital of Xianyang, no one came out to greet them. There was no need, as this event was akin to the ancient feat of opening the heavens, a momentous asion.


    Ascension? Ascension could not take mortals because the barrier between the Great Thousand World and the Small Thousand World was beyond mortal endurance. Yet Ying intended to take an entire city of people away. This was an immense undertaking, akin to creating a stable passage through the two worlds'' barriers, nearly as difficult as opening the heavens.


    As the departure neared, the pce and court officials stood waiting. The court hall doors suddenly opened with a loud bang.


    "Boom!"


    Ying, dressed in a ck dragon robe and wearing a ck jade crown, stepped out.


    Walking forward, Ying looked towards the two distant peaks, ncing at Zhong Shan and Kong Lietian. He disyed a faint, enigmatic smile, as if everything was under his control.


    Seeing Ying''s smile, both Zhong Shan and Kong Lietian raised their eyebrows but said nothing.


    With a sweep of his wide sleeve, Ying gathered the court hall into his sleeve, transforming the former site into a giant altar, overlooking all directions.


    "Mister, you may begin," Ying said, addressing the north.


    In the Great Qin, there was only one person Ying called "Mister"��Guiguzi.


    At the former residence of Guiguzi, the purple light had reached its peak, forming dense purple smoke.


    <strong>Boom!</strong>


    A thunderous explosion echoed across the sky, fierce winds began to roar, and countless dark clouds converged from all directions. Violent lightning crackled within these clouds as if an immensely evil being lurked below.


    The gale blew outward from the Sacred Capital of Xianyang, and standing on a distant peak, Zhong Shan felt an overwhelming pressure, a terrifying force not from the heavens but from Guiguzi''s residence. Was Guiguzi releasing his power?


    Under this intense pressure, the golden lotuses floating in the sky turned pitch ck, exuding an air of extreme malevolence.


    <strong>Boom!</strong>


    A tremendous explosion erupted from the north as Guiguzi''s residence detonated, sending a vast ck veil radiating outwards. This terrifying veil, immense and eerie, covered a massive area. It wasn''t a ck hole, but the powerful shockwave caused endless ck holes to appear near Zhong Shan. Such destruction from just the residual impact?


    The ck veil expanded rapidly, reaching the boundaries of the Sacred Capital of Xianyang in an instant before halting suddenly. Within the ck veil, streams of light asionally flickered, resembling a deep, dark passageway.


    Zhong Shan''s pupils constricted sharply. He recognized this ck passage. It was the same type of passage through which he had entered this Small Thousand World from Earth, brought here by the red pearl.


    Could the Great Qin forcibly open such a passage? What exactly was it? Did it lead to the Great Thousand World or another Small Thousand World?


    While Zhong Shan was lost in astonishment, a crack suddenly appeared at the top of the ck passage.


    <strong>Crack!</strong>


    The crack soared upwards, seemingly tearing through space itself, piercing straight into the heavens.


    "Your Majesty, a minor issue has urred, but it''s nothing significant. Everything can proceed as nned!" Guiguzi''s voice echoed from the ck passage.


    Ying nodded towards the direction of the ck passage, then looked up at the sky.


    <strong>Boom!</strong>


    Another explosion sounded, and suddenly, a massive circr hole appeared high in the sky, as if the heavens had opened a gigantic skylight.


    "A temporal treasure? A temporal treasure?"


    A voice filled with intense joy and greed echoed from the skylight, a voice that revealed overwhelming desire.


    A being from the Great Thousand World? A peerless expert near the Small Thousand World?


    Ying''s eyes turned cold as he gazed at the sky.


    Following the greedy voice, a gigantic hand reached down through the skylight.


    The moment this hand entered the Small Thousand World, it expanded to a colossal size, reminiscent of the one Zhong Shan had seen in theherworld. A great power from the Great Thousand World, with a hand that blotted out the sky, reached down towards Guiguzi''s direction.


    "Presumptuous!"


    With a cold shout, Ying raised his hand to meet the attack.


    Ying''s hand was a starry, radiant hand that shot up, breaking through countlessyers of space, forcefully colliding with the descending hand.


    <strong>Boom!</strong>


    It was like a massive explosion in the sky. ck holes spread directly towards Zhong Shan''s direction, enveloping everyone except those in the Sacred Capital of Xianyang.


    <strong>Boom!</strong>


    The two hands collided, and the force of the impact left everyone momentarily deafened.


    Zhong Shan watched as the two gigantic hands shed. They remained pressed against each other for five breaths of time.


    <strong>Crack!</strong>


    It sounded like a bone breaking. The hand of the great power from the Great Thousand World was forcefully repelled, retreating back into the skylight.

 Chapter 784: The Departure of the Great Qin

    <h4>Chapter 784: The Departure of the Great Qin</h4>


    The massive skylight-like hole in the sky slowly began to close. The surrounding damaged space quickly healed, but the hearts of Zhong Shan and the others could not recover as easily. How could there be such a vast difference between celestial emperors?


    A great power from the Great Thousand World, and yet one of their strikes was forcefully repelled by Ying, breaking their bones?


    Watching this scene, Zhong Shan broke out in a cold sweat, and so did Kong Lietian in the distance.


    This Ying, he''s not human!


    If anyone tells me again that the Great Qin is merely a celestial dynasty, I will argue with them! Can an emperor of a celestial dynasty, without relying on luck, break a great power''s bones with a single strike?


    Ying withdrew his hand and looked at the former position of the "skylight," his eyes indifferent.


    At that moment, the Sacred Capital of Xianyang beneath him slowly began to rise, gradually detaching from the earth. With a sound like an earthquake, the immense city of Xianyang began to move towards the northern ck passage, slowly entering it.


    This scene didn''t require Ying to worry any further; everything was managed by Guiguzi.


    Ying turned and looked towards Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, I shall leave you with one more piece of advice!" Ying said with a faint smile.


    Though Ying''s voice was not loud, it mysteriously reached Zhong Shan''s ears.


    "Please, enlighten me!" Zhong Shan slightly bowed towards Ying.


    "The Small Thousand World is like a dream or illusion, like dew or lightning. Only the Great Thousand World is real. Ascension is merely breaking through the illusion. Only by opening the heavens can one turn dreams into reality!" Ying said.


    As the rumbling continued, the Sacred Capital of Xianyang slowly entered the ck passage. The enormous ck passage also gradually shrank.


    "Thank you for your guidance!" Zhong Shan slightly bowed in the direction of Ying''s departure.


    The ck passage grew smaller and smaller until itpletely closed, with Xianyang entirely entering it. Ying had taken the Great Qin away, leaving the Small Thousand World behind.


    Boom!


    As the passage closed, another powerful spatial collision urred, creating a vast ck hole at that point, shattering the surrounding space.


    "Like a dream or illusion? Like dew or lightning?" Zhong Shan pondered as he watched the immense spatial rupture.


    Is this the dream? Only by opening the heavens can one turn dreams into reality?


    Zhong Shan felt a slight epiphany. Meanwhile, the vast spatial rupture slowly healed.


    The once-mighty Sacred Capital of Xianyang had transformed into a vast ocean. The Great Qin had be a thing of the past, leaving this Small Thousand World with no trace of the Great Qin.


    Only the legends remained, impossible to forget.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath. His eyes, once filled with a distant longing, suddenly focused sharply ahead.


    Daojun Shenya, Kong Lietian, and Toad Lai had surrounded Zhong Shan and Di Xuansha.


    "Daojun Shenya, do you think you can stop me?" Zhong Shan said gravely.


    Daojun Shenya looked at Zhong Shan with utmost seriousness.


    "Didn''t the Ancestor manage to kill your doppelganger?" Daojun Shenya raised an eyebrow.


    "Kill? You mean Kong Xuan?" Zhong Shan revealed a confident, wicked smile.


    That smile, full of confidence, made Daojun Shenya ufortable.


    "Execute Immortals!" Daojun Shenya suddenly called out.


    Toad Lai nodded.


    "Executioner Sword Formation!"


    With Toad Lai''s loud shout, an infinite amount of sword energy suddenly erupted from all directions. From the east, a fierce executioner sword stood imposing, exuding a murderous aura.


    The shadowy images appeared in the south, west, and north, forming aplete Executioner Sword Formation. Could the formation be established with just the Executioner Sword alone?


    "Without the support of the Great Xuan''s power, I wonder how you will escape this time," Daojun Shenya sneered.


    Two days earlier, at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    The court session was canceled for the day. Zhong Shan, apanied by his ministers, stood outside the Longevity Hall. Zhong Shan knew something significant was about to happen; the sensation of being calcted had be increasingly intense.


    Zhong Shan''s shadow body waited with closed eyes, enveloped in a heavy and silent atmosphere. Standing before the Longevity Hall, Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    Calctions? Another calction?


    Besides Kong Xuan, the shadow body sensed another person''s calction through the Heavenly Secrets **. Who could it be?


    Guiguzi? Ying? Unlikely, they had no reason to. Could someone else in this Small Thousand World perform calctions?


    Zhong Shan waited with a furrowed brow.


    As the full moon rose high into the sky,


    Cough, cough, cough...


    Coughing sounds suddenly echoed from all directions, making Zhong Shan''s pupils contract. He looked up.


    A figure stood in the position of the moon��a youthful-looking man in a green robe.


    However, this youth appeared very strange, with numerous cracks on his face, like a broken porcin doll glued back together, exuding an eerie aura.


    The youth had green eyelids, and as he looked down at Zhong Shan, a deep green light flickered in his eyes, a light that seemed to prate the soul.


    The youth held a handkerchief, coughing continuously, as if gravely injured.


    There was no oppressive aura; his presence could not be sensed at all, as if he were one with the world. Without seeing him, no one would know he was there.


    A youth?


    "Are you Kong Xuan?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath and asked.


    "You know me?" The youth''s eyes shed with surprise.


    "I am Zhong Shan, ruler of the Great Xuan. Greetings, Peacock King Kong Xuan!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "You even know my origin? However, you must die today!" Kong Xuan said gravely.


    As he spoke, a cold glint appeared in Kong Xuan''s eyes. At that moment, many ministers of the Great Xuan felt a chill, lowering their heads in fear.


    Kong Xuan didn''t even nce at the ministers, as if they were not even worthy of being ants in his presence.


    "Whether I die or not, we''ll have to see!" Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "See? Hahaha, boy, it''s been years since anyone dared to talk to me like that. I''ve heard of your cunning, Zhong Shan. You wouldn''t say such foolish things unless you had some reliance," Kong Xuan said, narrowing his eyes.


    "Reliance? I only rely on myself!" Zhong Shan replied firmly.


    With that, Zhong Shan''s figure flickered and sped towards the South Heaven Gate, covering a thousand miles in an instant.


    Kong Xuan didn''t stop him but squinted at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. With a single nce, Kong Xuan saw through it, realizing there was nothing there to threaten him. With a cold smile, Kong Xuan''s figure flickered and disappeared, reappearing above the South Sea. Zhong Shan soon arrived at the South Heaven Gate and quickly flew out.


    The Lingxiao Heavenly Court had been moved to the South Sea to maximize the power of the Great Xuan without harming its foundation.


    The battle between Zhong Shan and Kong Xuan was something no one else could interfere with. However, Zhong Shan had thought of a way for his ministers to y a role.


    Back in the present, the Executioner Sword Formation surrounded Zhong Shan and Di Xuansha. The intense sword aura radiated from all directions, filling the air with killing intent.


    Daojun Shenya and Kong Lietian, along with Toad Lai, were determined to prevent Zhong Shan''s escape.


    "Do you really think you can stop me?" Zhong Shan''s voice was calm but firm.


    "Ancestor didn''t manage to kill your shadow body?" Daojun Shenya raised an eyebrow.


    "Kill? You mean Kong Xuan?" Zhong Shan''s lips curled into a confident, wicked smile.


    The confidence in that smile made Daojun Shenya uneasy.


    "Execution!" Daojun Shenya suddenlymanded.


    Toad Lai nodded.


    "Executioner Sword Formation!"


    With Toad Lai''s shout, infinite sword energy erupted from all directions. From the east, the fierce Executioner Sword stood tall, exuding a murderous aura.


    Yi Yan received Zhong Shan''s hint and, instead of following the ministers to observe at the South Heaven Gate, retreated alone into a heavily guarded hall within the pce. The area was of utmost importance, guarded heavily by the Great Xuan soldiers. No one besides Zhong Shan and Yi Yan was allowed to step inside.


    Upon entering the hall, Yi Yan closed the door with a loud bang.


    Boom!


    As the door shut, sharp screams filled the air.


    Squeak, squeak, squeak...


    Numerous mice screamed within the hall, where many cages were set up, each containing a mouse. Thanks to the spiritual energy nourishing the hall, the mice remained alive.


    Yi Yan looked at the mice and, with a wave of his hand, cast a spell.


    Bang!


    A group of mice perished under Yi Yan''s hand. Following a specific sequence, he killed the mice in batches.


    In the southwest of Shenzhou, in a secluded valley.


    y Buddha, Wang Ku, and Mr. Corpse sat in the valley, waiting with closed eyes, surrounded by numerous jade ques.


    "The ''Heavenly Secrets **'' imparted by His Majesty is truly extraordinary. Even in the Great Thousand World, it is a rare advanced cultivation technique!" Wang Ku said seriously.


    "Many secret techniques of the Small Thousand World are not necessarily inferior to those of the Great Thousand World. Many Great Thousand World techniques originated from the Small Thousand World," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    "Do you think Kong Xuan can predict our presence near the Immortal Realm?" y Buddha asked, frowning.


    "Impossible. Otherwise, His Majesty wouldn''t have taught us the Heavenly Secrets **," Mr. Corpse shook his head.


    "Indeed."


    Boom! Boom!


    The jade ques in front of them exploded one after another in batches. The three of them watched intently.


    "Daojun Shenya, the Executioner Sword, and Kong Lietian are heading to the Great Qin. Kong Xuan has arrived at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Proceed to the Immortal Realm immediately; do not waste a single moment!" y Buddha read aloud.


    The three exchanged nces and then stood up together.


    "y Buddha, the Immortal Realm might still have Ye Qingcheng and the Trapping Immortal Sword. Find out the location of the object Kong Xuan is guarding quickly. We must coordinate our efforts! Be fast! If Kong Xuan detects us, we are in trouble," Mr. Corpse said seriously.


    "Understood!"


    "Let''s go!" The three of them stepped forward, shooting towards the Immortal Realm.


    Above the South Sea, Zhong Shan faced Kong Xuan.


    "Such speed. I thought my speed had reached the limit of this world, but I didn''t expect..." Zhong Shan frowned.


    "A strange body, a peculiar constitution. Your speed is indeed fast, but my movement isn''t limited to speed alone. Someone from outside this world, let me see what makes you different!" Kong Xuan said with a hint of curiosity.


    Someone from outside this world? As expected, just as Ying could deduce that Zhong Shan was from another world, so could Kong Xuan.

 Chapter 785: The Five-Colored Divine Light VS The Power of Reincarnation

    <h4>Chapter 785: The Five-Colored Divine Light VS The Power of Reincarnation</h4>


    "Do you want to witness the pinnacle of speed?" Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    "Pinnacle? Do you think you''re worthy of discussing speed with me?" Kong Xuan disyed a faint smile.


    "People of Dazhen, hear mymand! I, your Emperor, am confronting a peerless immortal. Raise your right hands and lend me your strength!" Zhong Shan''s voice echoed powerfully.


    With his shout, carried by the auspicious energies of the heavens, it reached the ears of every citizen.


    "The Emperor is confronting an immortal?"


    "A peerless immortal?"


    As people were puzzled, they raised their right hands. Instantly, it felt as though all their strength was drained, and many suddenly felt an overwhelming fatigue.


    Massive amounts of energy converged, causing the heavenly fortune above Lingxiao Heavenly Court to swell more than tenfold. A dragon-shaped energy quickly surged into Zhong Shan''s body.


    Zhong Shan''s power rapidly expanded, and a massive pressure emanated from him, causing the sea below to churn violently under the weight of his might.


    "Cough, cough, cough..." Kong Xuan coughed a few times, coldly eyeing the vastly strengthened Zhong Shan.


    "Nothing special! Since that''s the case, die!" Kong Xuan sneered.


    As Kong Xuan''s eyes widened, a row of indistinct des appeared in the void, the des of Space, reaching Zhong Shan in an instant. They were so fast that it seemed even Zhong Shan''s shadow-like speed couldn''t evade them.


    "sh!" Zhong Shan was cut in half.


    "Your Majesty!!!" The ministers at the Southern Gate shouted in shock.


    But in the next moment, Zhong Shan''s severed body vanished and reappeared abruptly in another direction. The endless heavenly fortune continued to pour into him.


    Zhong Shan didn''t growrger but became somewhat shadowy, exuding an eerie aura.


    "Huh?" A hint of surprise shed in Kong Xuan''s eyes.


    The Space des didn''t cut Zhong Shan?


    "Whoosh!" Zhong Shan disappeared again, only to reappear suddenly in another location.


    The ministers at the Southern Gate thought Zhong Shan''s speed was too fast to be seen, but Kong Xuan didn''t think so. It wasn''t a matter of speed. He was traversing space?


    Zhong Shan vanished from one spot and reappeared in another without any warning. Even Kong Xuan couldn''t see how Zhong Shan moved, making it extremely eerie. It was as if Zhong Shan dissipated in one ce and was recreated in another.


    Kong Xuan squinted his eyes. This outsider truly had something different about him.


    Half an incense stickter, Zhong Shan disappeared again from the high sky.


    "Boom!!!" Suddenly, a figure shot out from the sea below.


    Zhong Shan? How did he move to the sea?


    It wasn''t that Zhong Shan moved to the sea, but that he had been in the sea all along. The earlier shadow clones appearing and disappearing were merely a distraction to buy time.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Kong Xuan squinted his eyes: "So that''s why your body seemed so strange earlier. It was just an illusion, capable of deceiving even me. You are indeed special!"


    At this moment, the surroundings of Zhong Shan were no longer shadowy. Having harnessed the endless heavenly fortune of Dazhen and borrowing the power of the entire realm, thick ck qi enveloped him. The area where he stood became extremely ominous, emitting a terrifying yin energy, causing the surrounding space to tremble.


    "This treasure, I have never revealed to the world before. Let''s see if your damaged strength can withstand it!" Zhong Shan coldly dered.


    "Treasure?" A trace of mockery flickered in Kong Xuan''s eyes.


    "Great Reincarnation Passage, open!"


    Suddenly, the surroundings underwent a cataclysmic change. What was once a calm, moonlit night turned into a world bathed in blue light. The entire space shone with a blue radiance and began to rotate madly around Zhong Shan and Kong Xuan. The terrifying rotational force seemed strong enough to trap even light itself.


    Massive vortices formed around them, and a violent gale of astral energy swept through everything within. Numerous inds in the South Sea were pulverized into dust in an instant, and the sea water was blown away, disappearing in the blink of an eye.


    This was the terrifying power of reincarnation��a massive passage of reincarnation. This was the ultimate power that Zhong Shan''s shadow form could unleash, utilizing the power of the Dazhen empire and the immense energies of the realm. This move was Zhong Shan''s greatest killing technique. If this couldn''t defeat Kong Xuan, then all would be in vain.


    As the immense reincarnation passage appeared, Kong Xuan''s pupils contracted. Suddenly, he was enveloped by a huge peacock phantom. The five tail feathers of the peacock emitted five magnificent colors, immediately surrounding Kong Xuan within.


    "Five-Colored Divine Light? It can sweep away all things? This is the treasure of heaven and earth, the cycle of heaven and earth. Let''s see how you sweep this!" Zhong Shan roared.


    Instantly, the power of the reincarnation passage surged violently and acted upon Kong Xuan. The pressure around Kong Xuan suddenly increased.


    The Five-Colored Divine Light burst forth, shooting into the sky, but it couldn''t break free from the surrounding reincarnation passage. However, even so, within the reincarnation passage, Kong Xuan''s Five-Colored Divine Light remained immensely powerful, resisting the terrifying power of reincarnation.


    "Roar! To think I''d be outmaneuvered by a mere mortal?" Kong Xuan roared in a deep voice.


    Though Kong Xuan used the Five-Colored Divine Light to block the reincarnation power, cracks suddenly multiplied on his face, revealing the extent of his injuries. Clearly, his strength was limited by his injuries.


    "Great King Ming, do not me me. Zhong Shan had no choice. In the face of life and death, I had to feign weakness to seize a chance at survival. I can withdraw the Great Reincarnation Passage at any time, as long as you agree not to pursue me. I will immediately stop it," Zhong Shan quickly said.


    Zhong Shan''spromise was due to Kong Xuan''s overwhelming strength. Even the powerful reincarnation passage, utilizing the might of the Dazhen empire, couldn''t subdue Kong Xuan. If the battle dragged on, Zhong Shan would exhaust himself to death from maintaining the passage. It consumed too much energy.


    "Reincarnation Passage?" A fierce gleam shed at the corner of Kong Xuan''s mouth.


    "Roar!"


    The Five-Colored Divine Light surged into the sky, and the enormous peacock phantom moved, its five tail feathers bursting with countless rays of light, frantically attacking the reincarnation passage.


    The powerful reincarnation passage began to shake violently, as if it could be shattered by the Five-Colored Divine Light at any moment.


    Cracks continued to multiply on Kong Xuan''s face. Despite knowing the damage this was doing to his body, Kong Xuan chose not topromise. In Kong Xuan''s dictionary, there was no word forpromise.


    "Zhong Shan, you seek death!"


    "With a fierce resolve, Kong Xuan quickly mobilized the power of the Five-Colored Divine Light, determined to shatter the Reincarnation Passage.


    ''Reincarnation!''


    Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with ferocity. At this moment, he couldn''t afford to relent. Kong Xuan was a ruthless individual, and from his attitude, it was clear that not going all out meant certain death.


    Zhong Shan''s robes fluttered as he formed a circr hand gesture, his eyes glowing green. The Reincarnation Passage was Zhong Shan''s greatest reliance for now, and he had to ensure victory.


    The sh of the two terrifying energies, the Five-Colored Divine Light and the Power of Reincarnation, intensified as they battled for dominance.


    ''Break!!!''


    Kong Xuan let out a mighty roar, the cracks on his face multiplying like fish scales, densely packed. With a terrifying shout, the Five-Colored Divine Light swept through the heavens.


    The entire Reincarnation Passage suddenly froze, as if immobilized by the Five-Colored Divine Light.


    ''Boom!!!''


    In the next moment, the Reincarnation Passage exploded.


    ''Pfft!''


    Zhong Shan, his face pale, spat out a mouthful of blood and was sent flying backward.


    Defeated? Still not enough? A deep sense of helplessness shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes. Kong Xuan was too strong!


    Even with the power of the Dazhen empire, even with the sneak attack using the strongest Reincarnation Passage, and even with Kong Xuan severely injured, he still couldn''t defeat Kong Xuan?


    Defeated, truly defeated this time! What a terrifying existence would Kong Xuan be after breaking the shackles of reincarnation? Could the Lingxiao Heavenly Court still stand?


    As Zhong Shan reeled back, countless thoughts shed through his mind.


    But a few breathster, things didn''t go as Zhong Shan had imagined.


    With the explosion of the Reincarnation Passage, the vast territory of the South Sea turned into a massive ck hole. Lingxiao Heavenly Court, due to Zhong Shan''s deliberate avoidance and the protective formation of Nangong Sheng, suffered minimal damage.


    However, Kong Xuan didn''t strike again. He didn''t unleash the murderous intent that Zhong Shan had anticipated.


    Within the massive ck hole, a transparent pir sealed Kong Xuan inside. Kong Xuan''s eyes widened in astonishment.


    In the center of the battlefield between Zhong Shan and Kong Xuan, a new figure suddenly appeared��a man in ck robes.


    The ck-robed man held a jade turtle, directing it towards the transparent pir containing Kong Xuan.


    ''Who are you?'' Kong Xuan coldly eyed the ck-robed man.


    It seemed the recent sh had aggravated Kong Xuan''s injuries, preventing him from breaking through the pir''s confinement immediately.


    Zhong Shan also looked towards the ck-robed man. At the sight of him, Zhong Shan''s brows slightly furrowed. This figure seemed so familiar.


    The ck-robed man didn''t respond to Kong Xuan.


    ''Great Yan Life-Cutting Technique!'' the ck-robed man shouted.


    With his shout, thousands of de-like lights appeared around the ck hole, seemingly attracted to the center, and plunged towards Kong Xuan.


    "...!"


    There was no sound.


    ''Roar!!!'' Kong Xuan let out a roar of agony.


    Agony? Was Kong Xuan in pain?


    ''Great Yan Life-Cutting Technique, Zhong Shan, you, you!!!'' Kong Xuan snarled.


    Then, the immense Five-Colored Divine Light burst forth again. Ignoring his injuries, Kong Xuan activated the Five-Colored Divine Light once more. Under the massive impact, the transparent pir enclosing him cracked heavily, while the cracks on Kong Xuan''s face deepened, making him look terrifyingly ferocious.


    ''Life-Cutting!'' the ck-robed man shouted again, activating the jade turtle, sending a myriad of phantom des towards Kong Xuan.


    ''Roar!!!'' Kong Xuan let out another mighty roar, finally using the Five-Colored Divine Light to shatter the transparent pir. Escaping the myriad des, his entire left hand, due to his injuries, withered and disintegrated into sand, vanishingpletely.

 Chapter 786: The Fate Manipulator

    <h4>Chapter 786: The Fate Maniptor</h4>


    Kong Xuan''s left hand disintegrated into dust, vanishingpletely.


    With boundless rage, Kong Xuan pointed, and a beam of five-colored light shot towards the ck-robed man at incredible speed, reaching him in an instant. Though the ck-robed man had just used a powerful secret technique, it seemed his cultivation wasn''t particrly strong. Kong Xuan''s beam was too fast for him to evade.


    However, the ck-robed man threw the jade turtle in his hand. The jade turtle soared into the air and, as if it had locked onto Kong Xuan, shot towards him. Kong Xuan''s eyes narrowed, and his figure shed, but in that moment, the jade turtle transformed into arge Nine Pces Turtle Shell Diagram, enveloping Kong Xuan.


    As it enveloped him, the diagram rapidly shrank and was absorbed into Kong Xuan''s body.


    "Argh!" Kong Xuan spat out a mouthful of blood, his face instantly bing gaunt and his entire demeanor wilting.


    However, Kong Xuan''s earlier beam of light had pierced through the ck-robed man.


    "Boom!" The ck-robed man''s chest and back burst with blood, and he fell straight backward.


    "Courting death!" Despite his weakened state and severe injuries, Kong Xuan was still a peerless powerhouse. He was confident that his earlier attack had been lethal.


    "Reincarnation Passage, open!" Zhong Shan roared. The massive Reincarnation Passage reopened, turning the surroundings blue once again. The immense power of reincarnation began to press towards Kong Xuan.


    Having already endured the first Reincarnation Passage and two sneak attacks by the ck-robed man, Kong Xuan was heavily injured. Now, with the Reincarnation Passage opening again, even though he still had fighting strength, he didn''t want to take any more risks. Only Kong Xuan knew the extent of the damage from the ck-robed man''s attacks.


    Seeing the Reincarnation Passage surrounding him, Kong Xuan gave Zhong Shan a deep look. This Zhong Shan was indeed very knowledgeable about him, having not used any of his own treasures up to now.


    "Reincarnation!" Zhong Shan shouted coldly, charging forward.


    "Open!" Kong Xuan roared, concentrating his Five-Colored Divine Light into a powerful rainbow beam that struck the Reincarnation Passage.


    "Boom!" The Reincarnation Passage trembled and suddenly broke open a hole. Kong Xuan vanished in a sh.


    With the passage breached, the Reincarnation Passage shatteredpletely.


    Pale-faced, Zhong Shan watched the scene unfold and quickly grabbed the ck-robed man, who had been pierced through the chest.


    Kong Xuan had disappeared, leaving behind a battlefield filled with frustration and more injuries than necessary. Despite his overwhelming power, which could have easily annihted Zhong Shan and destroyed the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Kong Xuan found himself grievously injured, even losing his left hand to dust.


    Kong Xuan had left, filled with immense frustration.


    Exhausted, Zhong Shan removed the ck-robed man''s hood.


    As expected!


    "Father, your unworthy child apologizes!"


    The man within the ck robe looked at Zhong Shan with immense shame.


    Zhong Shan reached out, took a bottle, and extracted a golden pill, cing it into the man''s mouth. "Swallow it!"


    "It''s useless. I know this is the Five-Turn Golden Pill crafted by my foster mother, but even a Nine-Turn Golden Pill cannot save me from Kong Xuan''s power," the man shook his head.


    "Swallow it!" Zhong Shan insisted, pushing the pill into the man''s mouth.


    The man did not swallow. Instead, he shook his head with a nostalgic, bitter smile. "A month ago, I set up the ''Great Yan Life-Cutting Technique'' array here. Kong Xuan''s fate was already fragmented, and my array specifically targeted his fate, which is why he was severely injured. The jade turtle, our sect''s treasure, also attacked his fate. Kong Xuan won''t be able to leave the Longevity Realm for at least a hundred years!" the man exined.


    "And your injuries?" Zhong Shan asked, his face showing a trace of anxiety.


    "My injuries? It''s useless. These are not physical or soul injuries; it''s my fate. Kong Xuan shattered my fate, and I can feel myself dissipating," the man shook his head.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan noticed that the man''s body was continuously bing lighter, his fingertips turning into powder and dissipating.


    "Godfather, I''m sorry. Back then at the rooftop, I sought the Breaking Prohibition Pill from ''Uncle Master,'' but he came on behalf of his master and disliked me, giving me no chance..." the man said weakly.


    Holding his son, Zhong Shan''s long-suppressed tears flowed once more. Facing death, his son sought not survival but redemption?


    "Xuan''er, I never med you, never med anyone. To me, you have always been my third son, Zhong Xuan, my filial son!" Zhong Shan said with tears streaming down his face.


    The pain of losing a child, although perhaps inappropriate to say, was undeniable. The deep bond of family within Zhong Shan''s heart could never be erased.


    "Father!" Zhong Xuan smiled brightly, as if death meant nothing to him.


    "Quickly, tell me, is there any way to save you? Even if it''s just to preserve your soul, even if there''s only a slim chance!" Zhong Shan''s voice was hoarse.


    "There is no way. I am a ''Fate Maniptor,'' the only one in Shenzhou. I know my condition. With my mortal body, once my fate is destroyed, it''s over. However, as a Fate Maniptor, I swore an oath on my life. My lineage originates from the Great Thousand World. Though I am dying, there is a one percent chance of revival in the ''Fate Maniption Tower'' of the Great Thousand World. Don''t worry about me, Father!" Zhong Xuan''s body grew increasingly transparent, fading into a shadow.


    A one percent chance of revival? That was almost the same as certain death!


    "You used your life to save me, was it worth it?" Zhong Shan''s tears flowed uncontrobly.


    "My life was given by you, Father. I''ve lived in regret all these years, wondering why I couldn''t be as carefree as my eldest brother. Now, returning my life to you, I have no regrets. I''ve calcted your fate, Father. After this great tribtion, you will rise triumphantly in this world, creating a new heaven and earth! Long live, long live, long live!" Zhong Xuan said with unparalleled ease.


    As he finished his words, Zhong Xuanpletely turned into dust and vanished into the air.


    The surrounding space had returned to normal, and the officials saw Zhong Shan holding a piece of clothing, bewildered by the scene.


    "Ahhhhhh!!!" Zhong Shan let out a heart-wrenching howl towards the sky, filled with intense grief and anger.


    In his grief, Zhong Shan''s anguished cries echoed throughout the court. No one dared to disturb him as he howled for nearly the time it takes to burn an incense stick, trying in vain to release the sorrow and bitterness that filled his heart. The pain of an elder burying a younger is a sorrow only he could trulyprehend.


    The entire court, both civil and military officials, stood bowed at the Southern Gate, not daring to approach. Yi Yan, observing Zhong Shan''s unstable emotions from the Southern Gate, furrowed his brow and turned to Tian Lao. "Tian Lao, the emperor''s emotions are quite unstable. Please bring the empresses and the crown princes back from the underworld now."


    "But the emperor said..." Tian Lao hesitated.


    "The great enemy has left. We need not worry too much about the safety of the empresses and crown princes. Besides, when the emperor sent them to the underworld, they probably didn''t understand the situation. They must be anxiously waiting in the Yin-Yang Hall now," Yi Yan insisted.


    "But..." Tian Lao still seemed concerned.


    "I''ll take full responsibility for any mistakes!" Yi Yan said firmly, raising his eyebrows.


    "Yes!"


    When the empresses and crown princes returned from the underworld, they were initially displeased with Zhong Shan''s actions. However, seeing his current emotional state, their hearts softened. They gently consoled him with kind words.


    Zhong Shan, inherently a resolute person, had only lost control due to the overwhelming grief and frustration. With thefort of the crown princes and empresses, his mood improved significantly.


    Two dayster, Zhong Shan had almost fully recovered. He buried the sorrow deep within his heart and took out the Investiture of the Gods list.


    Under Zhong Shan''smand, a new line of text appeared on the list.


    Crown Prince, Zhong Xuan!


    The Dazhen Empire''s third crown prince, although recognizedte, was fully acknowledged by Zhong Shan in his heart.


    Bao''er, seeing this, massaged Zhong Shan''s shoulders and asked, "My lord, should we also write Neen''s name on it?"


    "No, Xuan''er is different from Neen. Let''s wait a bit longer," Zhong Shan replied, taking a deep breath.


    "Alright," Bao''er nodded. A few dayster, on a vast square in Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan, apanied by several important ministers, empresses, and crown princes, approached the square.


    On the square stood Ni Pusa, Corpse Sovereign, and Wang Kulu, who had returned. Behind them was a massive purple coffin, ten zhang long, already sealed with nails.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at the enormous coffin.


    "Reporting to the emperor, this is what we brought back from the Longevity Realm. We haven''t opened it yet due to the need to conceal it from heavenly observation, which caused some dy," Ni Pusa replied solemnly.


    "Kong Xuan was guarding this coffin?" Zhong Shan squinted his eyes.


    "Yes, it is this," Ni Pusa confirmed with a nod.


    As they gazed at the giant coffin, a vast aura emanated from it, infusing everyone with a sense of infinite solemnity. It was an unspoken mourning, a feeling of silent reverence thatpelled them to remain quiet.


    What was inside this giant coffin? Zhong Shan''s heart raced. Whoy within? He had a premonition that this coffin held a great secret, one that could stir the world into turmoil, a secret that would be of immense significance even in the Great Thousand World.

 Chapter 787: Exhausted in Mind and Body

    <h4>Chapter 787: Exhausted in Mind and Body</h4>


    The massive purple coffiny before Zhong Shan, emanating an intangible yet profound sense of sorrow and destion. This feeling wasn''t from any tangible aura but rather an inexplicable mncholy that arose in the hearts of all who saw the coffin. It was a feeling of grandeur and solemnity, a sense that this coffin was something sacred and invible.


    "Invible?"


    Everyone stared gravely at the enormous purple coffin.


    "Zhong Shan, what is inside? Why do I feel like crying just looking at it?" Tian Ling''er clung to Zhong Shan''s sleeve, her voice tinged with confusion.


    "Who could be inside the purple coffin?" Gu Qianyou took a deep breath, pondering aloud.


    Who indeed? Given Kong Xuan''s identity, everyone felt a tension gripping their hearts. Whatever Kong Xuan deemed most important must surely be significant.


    "Ni Pusa, did anything unusual happen when you entered the Longevity Realm?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "We used heavenly secrets and some secret techniques to enter. No one discovered us. Perhaps Kong Xuan was too confident; there were no formations around the purple coffin," Ni Pusa replied.


    "Your Majesty, what could be inside?" Wang Ku asked, his emotions stirred.


    Everyone present felt a heavy weight pressing on their hearts. They all had their suspicions but were too afraid to voice them. Whaty inside this coffin? The mere thought that, if word of its contents got out, it would provoke not only Kong Xuan''s relentless pursuit but also the upheaval of the Great Thousand World, made them anxious. This coffin likely contained an explosive secret.


    "Whatever we suspect, it doesn''t matter until we see what''s inside," Zhong Shan said, swallowing hard.


    The group nodded in agreement.


    "Can it be opened?" Zhong Shan asked Corpse Sovereign.


    "Yes," Corpse Sovereign nodded.


    "Open the coffin," Zhong Shanmanded in a solemn tone.


    "Yes!"


    Everyone held their breath as they watched Corpse Sovereign.


    Corpse Sovereign, an expert in dealing with the dead, approached the task with meticulous care. The first step was to remove the coffin nails.


    A typical coffin had only seven nails, but the purple coffin had ten, each with its own significance unknown to them.


    Corpse Sovereign carefully removed each nail, one by one. Although the nails themselves weren''t special, with each one removed, the somber atmosphere grew heavier, deepening the mncholy that weighed on everyone''s hearts.


    The ninth nail was removed.


    As Corpse Sovereign approached the tenth nail, he nced at Zhong Shan.


    By this time, Tian Ling''er was clinging tightly to Zhong Shan, perhaps finding some sce in his presence.


    Zhong Shan gave a nod to Corpse Sovereign.


    The tenth nail was slowly pulled out.


    As thest nail was extracted, the skies above Lingxiao Heavenly Court suddenly darkened, filled with dense clouds that blotted out the sun. What had been a bright and sunny day turned ominously gloomy, and fierce winds whipped through the high heavens.


    "Woooooo~! Woooooo~!"


    From all around, low, mournful sounds like those of ox horn instruments filled the air, deep and sorrowful.


    "Ahhhhhhhhh!"


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    The mournful wails continued to echo, enhancing the eerie, mournful atmosphere. The entire court stood still, breathless and silent, as they awaited the revtion of the purple coffin''s secret.


    All around Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the people were engulfed in an overwhelming sadness. The sky was dark and gloomy, and the low sound of the horns weighed heavily on everyone''s hearts, making it hard to breathe.


    "Woooooo~!"


    Where Zhong Shan stood, the feeling of sorrow intensified. Was the music of the heavens mourning? Was the world itself weeping?


    What on earth was inside this coffin?


    "I can''t take it anymore, I can''t!" Tian Ling''er was the first to break down, crying out loud.


    This atmosphere affected everyone. Although the other women didn''t cry as Tian Ling''er did, their faces also showed signs of sadness, as they struggled to hold back their tears.


    Zhong Shan handed Tian Ling''er over to Bao''er, who held her as she continued to sob.


    "Sister, why am I so sad? Sister!" Tian Ling''er cried out.


    "Shhhhh..." The sky suddenly opened up, and a torrent of rain fell, as if the heavens were crying. The rain hit everything around but did not touch the purple coffin.


    "This rain is salty. Could it really be the tears of heaven?" Gu Qianyou said, frowning in astonishment.


    Zhong Shan flew into the sky, followed by everyone else, all staring at the still-closed coffin. Just removing a few nails had caused the heavens to weep and mourn; what could possibly be inside?


    "Zhong Shan, what''s happening? This sorrowful feeling��I''ve never felt emotions like this before, yet now I feel so sad," came an unexpected voice, heard only by Zhong Shan.


    Huan Ji, who had arrived at the square from the Cave of a Hundred Generations at some unknown time, spoke.


    Zhong Shan nced at Huan Ji but did not respond. Instead, he looked back at the coffin.


    "Open the coffin!" Zhong Shanmanded again.


    "Yes!" Corpse Sovereign immediately responded.


    Everyone floated in the air, watching the coffin''s lid.


    Corpse Sovereign reached out and began to lift the lid.


    Slowly, inch by inch, the lid was removed.


    No strange aura emerged; it was just like an ordinary coffin. Yet, even so, as the lid was being lifted, Zhong Shan felt as if a massive hammer had struck his heart.


    The lid opened slowly, gradually revealing the inside.


    Insidey a body, dressed in ck robes, with closed eyes, appearing peaceful. Strangely, it seemed impossible for anyone to clearly remember his face.


    No, they could see it clearly, but they couldn''t retain the memory. The face had no cover, but as soon as they saw it, they would forget it, no matter how hard they tried to remember.


    "Ugh!" Gu Qianyou suddenly spat out a mouthful of blood.


    "Ugh!"


    "Ugh!"


    One after another, everyone coughed up blood, overwhelmed by a sense of vast sorrow and exhaustion.


    Only Wang Ku, Zhong Shan, and Huan Ji did not spit blood. Wang Ku, being a skeleton, had no blood. Huan Ji, with her phantom body, couldn''t spit blood. Zhong Shan himself, though he had blood at his throat, managed to suppress it through sheer willpower.


    Who was this person? Just looking at the corpse had exhausted everyone to their limits. They couldn''t even remember his face. It was as if the heavens themselves forbade them from retaining the memory, no matter how many times they looked.


    All they could see of the corpse was its loose hair and ck robe adorned with numerous gold threads. Apart from these details, nothing else was memorable. The corpse''s features remained etched in obscurity, ungraspable by memory.


    Forcing himself to suppress his shock, Zhong Shan continued to gaze deeply at the figure in the coffin. Meanwhile, the others, unable to withstand the overwhelming sadness and exhaustion, had already descended to the ground, struggling to stabilize their emotions.


    Even Huan Ji, who had retreated to the edge of the square, seemed to harbor a fear of the corpse, as if its presence invoked a primal dread.


    A profound sorrow, an immense destion, a vastness, and a supreme presence��these were Zhong Shan''s feelings. He deeply contemted these emotions.


    Whose corpse was this?


    Above Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the mournful sound of horns echoed everywhere. Countless tears of rain fell, and the citizens below wept uncontrobly, overwhelmed with grief as though mourning the loss of their parents.


    A collective sorrow enveloped the entire court, an immense mourning shared by all.


    At that moment, Shadow Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. He abruptly turned to look north and then frowned deeply as he gazed back at the corpse.


    "Corpse Sovereign, close the coffin and re-nail it!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    With a heavy heart, Corpse Sovereign quickly pushed the coffin lid back into ce. Just as the lid sealed shut, a purple beam of light descended from the distant sky.


    The formation set by Nangong Sheng automatically activated.


    "Boom!"


    The purple light shattered the formation, shooting straight towards the square where Zhong Shan stood.


    Two days earlier, at the former Xianyang Holy Capital.


    Ying had opened a temporal tunnel, leading the elite of the Qin Empire and the entire Xianyang Holy Capital through it. The most formidable man from 80,000 years ago had returned with the same unmatched strength.


    Ying''s disys of power were brief but always earth-shattering. He had eradicated the three major forces of the underworld in one stroke and broken the arm of a powerful figure from the Great Thousand World with a single blow.


    Seemingly impossible feats were aplished effortlessly by Ying.


    In the ancient world, God Tong opened the heavens and established a new order, achieving Nirvana from the mundane. When he left this realm, heid the groundwork for the future. Ying was even more legendary.


    Shenzhou was home to countless heroes!


    Ying had departed just as Zhong Shan faced off against the Raven Daoist Lord.


    "Without borrowing the power of the Dazhen Empire, let''s see how you escape this time!" the Raven Daoist Lord sneered.


    Everywhere around was filled with boundless sword energy��the Immortal Execution Sword Formation. With just one Immortal Execution Sword, he had set up the formation.


    The Immortal Execution Sword Formation epassed Di Xuansha, the Raven Daoist Lord, Zhong Shan, Kong Lietian, and the toad Lai, controlled by the Immortal Execution Sword.


    "Raven Daoist Lord? Have you broken through?" Di Xuansha asked, frowning slightly.


    "And you have broken through too?" the Raven Daoist Lord replied in a deep voice.


    The two locked eyes coldly. Their suspicions were now confirmed��they both had reached the twelfth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm.


    Di Xuansha had never underestimated the Raven Daoist Lord, and the Raven Daoist Lord had always taken Di Xuansha seriously. Among those who had earned Di Xuansha''s respect before the emergence of God Tong, Ying, and others, the Raven Daoist Lord was the only one. Both were extraordinary figures.


    Their strength wasn''t solely based on cultivation but also on an inherent ferocity that few possessed. This ferocity often allowed them to exceed their limits inbat.


    "Do you dare to fight?" the Raven Daoist Lord asked coldly.


    "With pleasure!" Di Xuansha''s eyes gleamed with battle intent.


    "Immortal Execution, I''ll fight Di Xuansha. Let us leave the formation. You and Kong Lietian can kill Zhong Shan. That''s sufficient!" the Raven Daoist Lord said.


    Everyone nodded in agreement.

 Chapter 788: Zhong Shan VS Kong Lietian

    <h4>Chapter 788: Zhong Shan VS Kong Lietian</h4>


    The Raven Daoist Lord and Di Xuansha stepped out of the Immortal Execution Sword Formation. These two peerless ferocious figures were destined to battle, but the opportunity had never presented itself until now.


    Within the formation remained Zhong Shan, Kong Lietian, and the toad Lai, possessed by the Immortal Execution Sword.


    "With the Raven Daoist Lord keeping Di Xuansha upied, do you think you can escape me this time?" Kong Lietian said coldly.


    Zhong Shan drew hisrge de, ''Nightmare.''


    "Kong Lietian, did you know? There were three opportunities where you could have easily killed me, but you didn''t. The wounds you inflicted on me will be your nightmare!" Zhong Shan said calmly, looking directly at Kong Lietian.


    "Three times?"


    "This de was forged specifically for you. From the moment Kui''er died, I swore to kill you and honor my wife''s spirit. The de''s name is ''Nightmare,'' and it will be your nightmare for the rest of your life!" Zhong Shan said with a wicked smile.


    "Facing death, you still dare to threaten me?" Kong Lietian sneered, ncing dismissively at Zhong Shan.


    At that moment, a surge of sword energy erupted from beneath Zhong Shan''s feet, one blood-red and the other pitch-ck.


    "Immortal Execution? Absolute Immortal?" The toad Lai''s pupils contracted.


    Suddenly, a massive tail appeared behind Zhong Shan, then another, and another...


    The immense Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, a gigantic beast, slowly emerged. The tails, now a hundred zhang in size, swung around, causing the surrounding space to tremble, and the myriad sword energies became chaotic.


    "A Great Thousand Divine Beast?" Kong Lietian looked coldly at the enormous Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    "Yes, a Great Thousand Divine Beast, more than sufficient to deal with the Immortal Execution Sword Formation!"


    "Are you the one who destroyed the Immortal Execution and Absolute Immortal Swords?" the toad Lai, possessed by the Immortal Execution Sword, asked, its eyes shing with malice as it stared at the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    Zhong Shan didn''t respond. Instead, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail suddenly expanded, growing to a size of a thousand li, transforming into a sky-covering behemoth.


    The eight massive tails swung fiercely, shattering the surrounding space. The might of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was evident. Yet, the Immortal Execution Sword Formation didn''t seem reliant on spatial stability; it could be maintained even within a ck hole.


    Despite the formidable power of the Immortal Execution Sword Formation, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail moved with ease within it. Perhaps due to having absorbed the Immortal Execution and Absolute Immortal Swords, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail instinctively found the formation''s weak points.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail charged towards the southern cluster of sword shadows within the formation, the position where the Immortal Execution Sword should have been.


    "Break!"


    With a blood-red tail swipe, the southern part of the formation was struck, creating a massive opening. The Immortal Execution Sword Formation was breached.


    Though the Immortal Execution Sword could set up the formation alone, it wasn''t as powerful as the full four-sword formation.


    "Kong Lietian, leave this to them. Follow me and settle our score!" Zhong Shan shouted from atop the immense Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    Kong Lietian''s eyes gleamed with greed at the sight of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. What kind of divine beast was this? Why was Zhong Shan so fortunate? Why wasn''t it his?


    As long as Zhong Shan was dead, the divine beast would be his.


    Kong Lietian looked up at Zhong Shan standing on the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. Zhong Shan wanted a duel? He must be courting death!


    Zhong Shan and Kong Lietian stepped out of the massive Immortal Execution Sword Formation.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was more than enough to deal with the Immortal Execution Sword Formation. As soon as Zhong Shan and Kong Lietian burst out into the open, they saw two massive areas of chaotic battle: one where Di Xuansha and the Raven Daoist Lord shed, and the other where the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail engaged with the Immortal Execution Sword Formation.


    The moment they emerged, Zhong Shan and Kong Lietian shed almost simultaneously. Zhong Shan wielded his massive de, Nightmare, and shed fiercely at Kong Lietian.


    "Heavenly sh! Two Thousand Waves!"


    Kong Lietian also drew a brilliant golden de, his eyes narrowing as he swung it with all his might to meet Zhong Shan''s attack.


    "Boom!"


    A deafening explosion created a third ck hole in the battlefield as the two powerful forces collided head-on.


    Within the ck hole, Zhong Shan disyed his unwavering determination to fight. Their de energies shattered upon impact, and bothbatants were thrown back.


    Kong Lietian looked in shock at his golden de. The sheer force of the collision had left his hands numb.


    "Heavenly sh! Two Thousand Waves!"


    Zhong Shan''s de shed down again, locking onto Kong Lietian with an unyielding force. Kong Lietian raised his de to block.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Each sh was stronger than thest, with Zhong Shan''s strikes growing ever swifter. The man before him was the one who killed Kui''er, the demon who destroyed his family. He had to be in!


    The battle raged on for over a day. Kong Lietian could not believe how much Zhong Shan had grown, his strength was unimaginable. Was this the same ant he could crush at any time in the past?


    Both fighters were lost in a murderous frenzy. During this time, Kong Lietian''s hands continually went numb from the powerful impacts.


    Staring at Zhong Shan''s de, an inexplicable fear began to grow in Kong Lietian''s heart. The de''s power was terrifying; if it struck him, the consequences would be unthinkable.


    "Nightmare? My nightmare? How could it be?"


    "Crack!"


    In another fierce exchange, a crisp sound came from Kong Lietian''s de as a crack appeared.


    The golden de couldn''t withstand the force any longer.


    "Shatter!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    "Boom!"


    The golden de exploded into pieces.


    In that instant, a crack appeared on Kong Lietian''s forehead, and a three-colored light shot out, aimed directly at Zhong Shan.


    Nightmare was brought up to shield Zhong Shan.


    "Boom!"


    A hole was sted through the de, but the three-colored divine light''s power was reduced by eighty percent. The remaining force struck Zhong Shan''s chest.


    As his golden de shattered, Kong Lietian didn''t feel regret. Seeing his three-colored divine light pierce through Zhong Shan''s de and strike his chest, a sh of excitement appeared in his eyes.


    "Boom!"


    The three-colored divine light exploded against Zhong Shan''s chest, tearing his clothes apart. Yet, despite the powerful impact, the light dissipated, failing to prate his flesh. Instead, it left only a red mark on his chest.


    Kong Lietian''s eyes were filled with disbelief. How had the three-colored divine light not pierced his body?


    Why hadn''t it? Zhong Shan''s body, tempered through the Demonic Refining Art, was now as tough as a celestial weapon. Such a powerful physique could not be easily prated.


    "Impossible! I don''t believe it!" Kong Lietian roared in madness.


    With a wave of his hand, a white light shot out from his sleeve��not just any light, but a massive iceberg. This was the same celestial weapon used by the Longevity Realm to trap Zhong Shan during the rescue of Bei Qingsi.


    The celestial weapon, an enormous iceberg, came crashing down towards Zhong Shan.


    Feeling the immense pressure from above, Zhong Shan put away his de and his eyes shed with fierce determination. Spreading his arms, he formed fists andunched himself upwards to meet the descending iceberg.


    This time, Zhong Shan didn''t use phantom punches; he faced the iceberg with his bare fists.


    As he punched, wisps of white mist emanated from his fists, and tiny runes glowed upon his knuckles.


    "Facing a celestial weapon with your bare hands? You''re courting death!" Kong Lietian sneered from above.


    "Open!" Zhong Shan roared.


    "Boom!"


    Fists collided with the mountain in a direct sh. An immense force of creation surged from Zhong Shan''s fists, violently striking the massive iceberg.


    "Boom!"


    The colossal iceberg shattered and exploded.


    A celestial weapon, a powerful celestial weapon, was shattered by Zhong Shan''s fists?


    Kong Lietian watched in shock, unable to ept what he saw. How could a mortal''s body be so powerful?


    The three-colored divine light was one thing, but that was a celestial weapon��a weapon this realm should never be able to possess.


    Since when could mortals from the Lesser Thousand World shatter celestial weapons with their fists?


    Even though Kong Lietian hadn''t bound the iceberg with his spirit, he felt the total destruction of the iceberg. As fragments of the shattered ice flew past him, he couldn''t recover from the shock of Zhong Shan''s punch.


    "A Profound Celestial Weapon? Are the disciples of the Kong family in the Great Thousand World only equipped with Profound Celestial Weapons?" Zhong Shan taunted coldly after shattering the iceberg.


    Kong Lietian''s face turned extremely dark as he looked at Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan had exceeded all his expectations and had to be killed. If Zhong Shan wasn''t eliminated today, he would be a nightmare in the future.


    "In this realm, you''re the first to push me to this extent. I thought I wouldn''t need to use this until the opening of the heavens. Today, I''ll use you to consecrate this treasure!" Kong Lietian said coldly.


    Zhong Shan didn''t advance. He had been waiting for this moment, eyes bloodshot with anticipation. What treasure did Kong Lietian have? Could it be that ck banner��the very item that directly caused Kui''er''s death?


    "Master, the sunshine is so lovely today. We haven''t gone to Cuihu for a long time. This time, I must catch a big crab and make crab soup for you."


    "Alright, catch a big crab. This time, our family will go together. Let''s invite your younger brother too."


    "Okay, let''s invite the second brother. The third brother isn''t aroundtely, otherwise, he''s the best at catching crabs."


    "Ha ha, ha ha, Master,e quickly. There''s a big crab here, so big!"


    "I''ming, Kui''er, wait for me. I''ll bring a big."


    Suddenly:


    "Ha ha, found you, a girl born in the right year, month, and hour." Kong Lietianughed. The crack on his forehead seemed to hide a third eye.


    Reaching out, he made a grabbing motion towards Kui''er.


    "Boom!"


    Blood rain filled the sky as Kui''er''s delicate body exploded, her flesh scattered and disintegrated. Amidst thepression of energy by the golden-robed man, a blue shadow of Kui''er appeared, only to be grabbed and sent into a ck banner.


    "No!"


    Kui''er was gone, but the hatred remained!

 Chapter 789: Breaking the Spring and Autumn

    <h4>Chapter 789: Breaking the Spring and Autumn</h4>


    With bloodshot eyes, Zhong Shan stared at Kong Lietian, waiting for the ck banner to appear. Kong Lietian didn''t understand Zhong Shan''s thoughts but was determined to kill him. He reached into his sleeve and pulled out his treasured item.


    Seeing the treasure, Zhong Shan frowned. It wasn''t the ck banner.


    Instead, Kong Lietian held a bamboo scroll, exuding a faint ck aura, looking extremely eerie. The scroll bore two prominent characters, which also served as its title: "����" (Spring and Autumn).


    This was the "Spring and Autumn".


    Zhong Shan had long heard of the "Spring and Autumn". In his youth on Earth, he had read about it in historical texts. The author of "Spring and Autumn" was Confucius, also known as Kong Qiu. After Confucius wrote the "Spring and Autumn", simr books appeared, such as L�� Buwei''s "L��shi Chunqiu" and Yan Ying''s "Yanzi Chunqiu".


    The book "Spring and Autumn"id the foundation for Confucius to be a sage.


    "The Spring and Autumn of the Kong family?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    It wasn''t the ck banner, but the Spring and Autumn scroll?


    "This is the Spring and Autumn of my Kong family. Only those above the Heavenly Immortal level can study it. This scroll is the most powerful treasure I''ve refined in the Great Thousand World, a Heavenly Immortal artifact. You should feel honored to die under this treasure!" Kong Lietian said with a murderous gleam in his eyes.


    "Swish!"


    Kong Lietian unfurled the bamboo scroll. The ck bamboo spread out, forming a massive scrollposed of seventy-two bamboo slips. The scroll expanded to ten thousand zhang in size and descended upon Zhong Shan like the previous iceberg but with much greater pressure.


    This time, the oppression was far more intense, showing that this Spring and Autumn scroll was much stronger than the iceberg.


    Countless phantom images of bamboo slips appeared around Zhong Shan, forming a gigantic cage, trapping him in the center with no escape.


    The massive bamboo slips pressed down, and the surrounding phantom slips slowly closed in on Zhong Shan.


    The immense pressure from above caused Zhong Shan''s hair to flutter wildly.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold, showing no fear. He clenched his fists tightly, staring up at the bamboo scroll.


    "Spring and Autumn scroll? I will fight until you bring out the ck banner!" Zhong Shan thought fiercely.


    Heunched himself into the sky, punching fiercely at the descending Spring and Autumn scroll.


    "Boom!"


    The terrifying force caused the scroll to halt. Kong Lietian''s pupils contracted as he looked at Zhong Shan in shock. How could he have such strength?


    How was it possible for him to have such strength?


    Zhong Shan''s legs tensed, and he punched again, his fists surrounded by white mist and countless runes.


    "Boom!"


    The powerful Spring and Autumn scroll shed with Zhong Shan''s fist again, producing another loud bang as it stopped once more.


    "Impossible! How can a mortal withstand a Heavenly Immortal artifact? How is this possible?" Kong Lietian shouted in disbelief. He extended his hand, sending a massive golden palm down to press the scroll harder against Zhong Shan.


    The enormous Spring and Autumn scroll, carrying the force of thunder and lightning, seemed determined to crush Zhong Shanpletely.


    "A Heavenly Immortal artifact? You call this a Heavenly Immortal artifact?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Demonic Refining Art, Seventh Level!


    Eight times the strength, Zhong Shan''s eyes widened as he punched again. His fists were shrouded in white smoke, with countless silver runes gleaming on them.


    "Boom!"


    The overwhelming force of Zhong Shan''s fists collided with the Spring and Autumn scroll once more. The immense power from Zhong Shan''s fists halted the scroll''s descent.


    With a deafening roar, Zhong Shan threw his full strength into his punch, imbued with an unstoppable, world-creating force. This attack carried an immense power beyond normal limits.


    "Roar!!!"


    As Zhong Shan''s powerful fist collided with one of the bamboo slips, the impact was monumental. Both Kong Lietian and Zhong Shan had poured all their energy into this sh.


    "Boom!!!"


    The collision between the fist and the bamboo slipsted for a full two seconds, seemingly glued together by the force of the impact.


    "Crack!"


    A clear, sharp sound emanated from the bamboo slip.


    "Crack, crack, crack!"


    Cracks spread out from where Zhong Shan''s fist had struck, spider-webbing across the bamboo slip.


    "Boom!"


    One of the seventy-two bamboo slips of the Heavenly Immortal artifact, the Spring and Autumn scroll, was shattered by Zhong Shan''s sheer force.


    "Ugh!" Kong Lietian spat out a mouthful of blood, his eyes filled with shock and disbelief.


    Impossible, absolutely impossible! To break a Heavenly Immortal artifact with a single punch? Even if Kong Lietian could only exert a tenth of the Spring and Autumn scroll''s power, it was still a Heavenly Immortal artifact imbued with the essence of the Spring and Autumn. How could a single punch shatter it?


    "Again!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    With a fist imbued with the essence of world creation, he struck a second bamboo slip.


    "Boom!"


    The second bamboo slip shattered.


    A Heavenly Immortal artifact? Under the force of world-creating punches, it was nothing. These hands could split the heavens, so how could they not overpower a mere Heavenly Immortal artifact? No matter how powerful, could it be stronger than this Lesser Thousand World?


    "Break!"


    "Break!"


    "Break!"


    Zhong Shan''s relentless punches continued, each strike shattering another bamboo slip. After the first slip broke, the entire Spring and Autumn scroll became significantly weaker. Zhong Shan''s full force punches shattered slip after slip.


    The immense power of his punches took a toll on him, with the force of the recoil pushing Zhong Shan to his limits. After another punch, his body was covered in a red flush.


    Beneath his powerful muscles, veins bulged from the strain. His entire body was swollen with muscle and veins, making Zhong Shan look fierce and terrifying.


    "Thest one, break for me!!!"


    With a mighty roar, Zhong Shan delivered a final, devastating punch.


    "Boom!"


    Thest bamboo slip shattered, scattering into pieces. A powerful Heavenly Immortal artifact had been destroyed by Zhong Shan''s bare hands.


    Kong Lietian, connected to the artifact and thus injured, was left in a daze.


    Such powerful fists��how could they be so strong? Even in the Great Thousand World, no one at his level, not even a terrestrial immortal focused solely on fist cultivation, could possess such strength. How was this possible?


    After breaking the Spring and Autumn scroll, Zhong Shan''s body waspletely flushed red. He felt he had reached the limit of his physical endurance and could no longer use the world-creating punches.


    Reaching out, he drew his massive de, Nightmare, once more.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes grew cold as he looked at Kong Lietian. With a swift motion, he swung his massive de.


    "Heavenly sh! Three Thousand Waves!"


    Zhong Shan executed a sh that was a thousand waves stronger than before. The Heavenly Demon Body Refining Art amplified its power, making Three Thousand Waves an absolute nightmare for Kong Lietian.


    Kong Lietian''s brow furrowed as a crack opened.


    "Whoosh!"


    Another beam of three-colored divine light shot out.


    "Boom!!!"


    The sh between Three Thousand Waves and the three-colored divine light was explosive. After a powerful impact, the divine light dissipated, and Zhong Shan was pushed back a hundred zhang.


    However, this time, the divine light did not harm the Nightmare de. Unharmed, Zhong Shan swung his de once more with domineering force, aiming at Kong Lietian.


    Kong Lietian fired another beam of three-colored divine light. His already pale face turned even paler, showing the immense effort required to release the divine light.


    Zhong Shan''s relentless attacks continued. Kong Lietian, exhausted, fired yet another beam.


    "Boom!!!" Zhong Shan was pushed back another hundred zhang.


    "Are you not going to bring out the ck banner? Let''s see how long you can hold out!" Zhong Shan roared.


    The terrifying Heavenly sh! Three Thousand Waves! Each strike carried an overwhelming power beyond what a typical Heavenly Extreme Realm cultivator could withstand.


    Why was Zhong Shan so strong? How could he be this powerful? Kong Lietian''s eyes were filled with malevolence.


    "Are you still not going to use the ck banner?" Zhong Shan swung his de once more.


    Kong Lietian suddenly formed a hand seal, his eyes shing with resentment towards Zhong Shan. It seemed he was being pushed to his limit.


    Suddenly, Kong Lietian didn''t charge forward but instead retreated explosively, exiting the ck hole.


    The exterior of the ck hole was invisible, but those inside could see out. A strange scene unfolded outside, halting Kong Lietian''s next move.


    From the ck hole of the Immortal Execution Sword Formation, the Immortal Execution Sword suddenly shot out, carrying the body of the toad Lai.


    The ck hole rapidly sealed, and the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail pursued.


    The Immortal Execution Sword trembled violently, causing the toad Lai''s body to shake uncontrobly, as if having a seizure.


    This bizarre scene drew everyone''s attention.


    "Swish!" A purple light shed from the toad Lai''s body, and the toad Lai copsed weakly.


    The purple light merged with the Immortal Execution Sword, which then shot skyward.


    Everyone was taken aback by this strange event.


    The Raven Daoist Lord, hastily retreating from the ck hole, shouted, "Immortal Execution, what are you doing?"


    But the Immortal Execution Sword ignored him, disappearing from sight.


    What was happening? Did the Immortal Execution Sword leave on its own?


    Kong Lietian flew to the side of the copsed toad Lai, and Zhong Shan exited the ck hole as well.


    On the other side, the Raven Daoist Lord''s clothes were tattered, and the same was true for Di Xuansha, who emerged shortly after.


    Everyone looked on in confusion. Why did the Immortal Execution Sword suddenly leave? Who was calling it? Who could summon it?


    The toad Laiy unconscious on the ground.


    "Di Xuansha, let''s continue!" Zhong Shan shouted, charging forward again.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail followed Zhong Shan, quickly advancing towards Kong Lietian.


    The Raven Daoist Lord red at Zhong Shan with fury, then looked viciously at the unconscious toad Lai.

 Chapter 790: The Purpose of the Immortal Execution Sword

    <h4>Chapter 790: The Purpose of the Immortal Execution Sword</h4>


    With a deep, furious nce at Zhong Shan, the Raven Daoist Lord felt an immense frustration. However, he was a person who could adapt to the situation. They hade to kill Zhong Shan, not for an endless battle. With the Immortal Execution Sword gone, the bnce of victory had shifted dramatically.


    "You couldn''t kill Zhong Shan in over a day? Let''s go!" the Raven Daoist Lord said, his voice full of displeasure.


    Kong Lietian didn''t exin. He took a deep look at Zhong Shan before turning and flying away with the Raven Daoist Lord.


    Only the Raven Daoist Lord truly understood Di Xuansha''s strength. Despite the advantageous situation, Kong Lietian failed to kill Zhong Shan, just like the toad Lai��a disappointing failure.


    The Raven Daoist Lord couldn''tprehend Zhong Shan''s strength and was deeply dissatisfied with Kong Lietian''s inability to kill him. Simrly, Kong Lietian was also dissatisfied with the Raven Daoist Lord. Wasn''t he at the twelfth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm? Didn''t he unseal the Immortal Execution Flying de? What were they doing for more than a day?


    Both of them, filled with resentment, flew away from the scene. Although they couldn''t deal with Zhong Shan and Di Xuansha at the moment, neither Zhong Shan nor Di Xuansha could stop them from leaving.


    As for the unconscious toad Lai, they didn''t bother with him at all.


    "Forget it, no need to chase them," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    The Demonic Refining Art couldn''t be sustained for much longer. If the battle continued, the oue would be uncertain.


    Di Xuansha nodded, turning his attention to the unconscious toad Lai.


    Seeing Lai, both men felt a wave of disgust. Nobody liked Lai, and over the years, he had been utterly useless��a mere punching bag. He never contributed to any battle, either being beaten or unable to participate. This time, he was even possessed by the soul of the Immortal Execution Sword. Useless!


    No wonder the Raven Daoist Lord and Kong Lietian didn''t take him when they left.


    "I''ll kill him!" Di Xuansha said coldly, looking at the unconscious toad Lai.


    "Wait! Leave him," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Such a useless creature, what''s the point of keeping him?" Di Xuansha frowned.


    "He''ll have his uses. Even a piece of toilet paper or a lump of fertilizer has its purpose. How can he be entirely useless?" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    This was the first time Zhong Shan had gained the upper hand against Kong Lietian, putting him in a good mood. After today, Kong Lietian would undoubtedly have nightmares. Zhong Shan intended to slowly torment him psychologically rather than killing him outright.


    A piece of toilet paper? A lump of fertilizer? Di Xuansha gave Lai a strange look after hearing thisparison.


    "Alright, whether he''s toilet paper or fertilizer, I''ll leave him to you," Di Xuansha said, wiping off some cold sweat.


    Retracting the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail and grabbing Lai, Zhong Shan and Di Xuansha swiftly flew back to Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Why did the Immortal Execution Sword suddenly fly away? What happened? How is Lingxiao Heavenly Court?" Di Xuansha asked, frowning.


    "You don''t need to worry about Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Kong Xuan retreated several days ago," Zhong Shan replied, his expression somewhat grim.


    "Oh? Kong Xuan retreated, but why do you still look so troubled?" Di Xuansha asked, puzzled.


    "Because one of my beloved sons died because of him," Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with anger.


    "Oh?" Di Xuansha raised an eyebrow.


    "Zhong Xuan..." Zhong Shan recounted the events to Di Xuansha, having no reason to hide the truth.


    "Kong Xuan?" Di Xuansha took a deep breath upon hearing about Kong Xuan''s formidable strength. Kong Xuan was terrifyingly powerful.


    "Never mind, we managed to capture one of Kong Xuan''s lifelines," Zhong Shan suddenly smiled.


    "Oh? Did Wang Ku and the others seed?" Di Xuansha asked.


    "Indeed. They are currently investigating in Lingxiao Heavenly Court. It''s a massive purple coffin, exuding a profound sense of sorrow. They began opening it earlier. Now that the coffin is open, Lingxiao Heavenly Court is shrouded in a deep sadness, with the heavens weeping and a sense of boundless destion and majesty enveloping everything. This coffin is not ordinary!" Zhong Shan exined to Di Xuansha.


    "A coffin? Who''s inside?" Di Xuansha asked, puzzled.


    "I can''t see clearly. No, I can see clearly��I can see his face perfectly, but I can''t remember it, not even a little. Even trying to record it with memory crystals is futile. That corpse is too bizarre!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "A strange corpse?" Di Xuansha frowned.


    Zhong Shan''s pupils suddenly contracted, his face changing color.


    "What is it?" Di Xuansha asked, confused.


    "I know! I understand now...!" Zhong Shan swallowed hard.


    "Understand what?"


    "I know where the Immortal Execution Sword went. I know why it left so suddenly and ignored the Raven Daoist Lord''smands. I finally get it!" Zhong Shan''s eyes were filled with shock.


    "Where did it go?"


    "To Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The Immortal Execution Sword went to Lingxiao Heavenly Court!" Zhong Shan said with firm conviction.


    In the Longevity Realm, Ye Qingcheng sat calmly on a small pond, meditating on the water''s surface, the Immortal Trapping Sword resting on his knees.


    Ye Qingcheng sought to grasp this tranquility, deepening his understanding of swordsmanship. With the Immortal Trapping Sword by his side, his insights grew even more profound.


    Suddenly, the green Immortal Trapping Sword trembled violently, disrupting Ye Qingcheng''s meditation.


    "Boom!"


    The pond water shot into the sky as the Immortal Trapping Sword suddenly flew upwards.


    The sudden movement of the Immortal Trapping Sword startled Ye Qingcheng.


    Without hesitation, Ye Qingcheng grabbed the hilt of the Immortal Trapping Sword.


    The sword emitted a blinding green light, shaking intensely. The surrounding space quivered as if the sword itself was agitated, trying to break free.


    Countless streams of sword energy appeared from all directions.


    The overwhelming sword energy attacked Ye Qingcheng, as if trying to force him to let go. But how could Ye Qingcheng release his grip at this moment?


    He sensed that if he let go, the Immortal Trapping Sword would disappear, escaping from him.


    This unprecedented situation left him baffled. What was happening?


    The immense force of the Immortal Trapping Sword struggled madly, almost breaking free from Ye Qingcheng''s hands. His grip weakened as his hands went numb. The power of the Immortal Trapping Sword was too intense. If he rxed even a bit, the sword wouldpletely fly away.


    Fly awaypletely? Suddenly, Ye Qingcheng remembered something the Raven Daoist Lord had said in the past:


    "I''ll entrust the Immortal Trapping Sword to your care. This is yourst chance. If you lose the sword again, bring your head to see me!" the Raven Daoist Lord had said coldly.


    The memory sent a shiver down Ye Qingcheng''s spine.


    "Power of Longevity!" Ye Qingcheng shouted.


    In a certain area of the Longevity Realm, boundless merits shone brightly, countless golden lights rushing towards Ye Qingcheng. His entire body radiated golden light, and the small valley he was in erupted with beams of light shooting into the sky.


    In the Longevity Realm, a group of powerful individuals gathered around, thinking there was a formidable enemy attack. But as they got closer, they realized it was Ye Qingcheng struggling with the Immortal Trapping Sword.


    The vice-lord battling with the Immortal Trapping Sword? Everyone was bewildered.


    "No one can take you away!" Ye Qingcheng, leveraging the immense merit of the Longevity Realm, firmly suppressed the Immortal Trapping Sword.


    Although Ye Qingcheng couldn''t mobilize the Longevity Realm''s merit as freely as the Raven Daoist Lord, he could still use a significant amount due to his position as vice-lord.


    Under the immense pressure, Ye Qingcheng finally managed to control the Immortal Trapping Sword. Even though it wanted to leave, it couldn''t.


    The Immortal Trapping Sword trembled intensely, seemingly mourning and enraged. A profound sense of helplessness emanated from the sword.


    Ye Qingcheng, observing the sword''s strangeness, felt relieved that it hadn''t been lost. As long as he retained the sword, nothing else mattered.


    After subduing the sword, Ye Qingcheng noticed the gathered strongmen.


    "Everyone, return to your posts. You stay!" Ye Qingcheng ordered the crowd, pointing to one man.


    "Yes!" The crowd dispersed, leaving only the designated man behind.


    "I ask you, has the ancestor returned?" Ye Qingcheng inquired.


    "I have been watching the entrance to the Longevity Realm. Even when I came here, I had someone else watching the entrance. The ancestor has not returned yet," the man replied, shaking his head.


    "Alright, you may go," Ye Qingcheng dismissed him.


    "Yes!"


    Once everyone had left, Ye Qingcheng turned his attention back to the mournful Immortal Trapping Sword.


    "What''s going on with the Immortal Trapping Sword? I wanted to ask the ancestor for rification, but he hasn''t returned yet. Why hasn''t hee back?" Ye Qingcheng frowned deeply.


    Why was the Immortal Trapping Sword trembling and mourning? Like the Immortal Execution Sword, it sensed the opening of the purple coffin in Lingxiao Heavenly Court of the Dazhen Empire and wanted to rush there immediately. But why was the purple coffin in Lingxiao Heavenly Court? If Ye Qingcheng had caught the three thieves earlier, preventing them from stealing the purple coffin, today''s events wouldn''t have happened.


    Ye Qingcheng still wanted to consult Kong Xuan. What would Kong Xuan think once he learned the full story?


    In the Dazhen Empire, Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the heavens mourned, and tears of rain fell.


    The shadow body of Zhong Shan, leading his ministers in a square, opened the purple jade coffin, revealing an overwhelming sense of destion.


    Most people were meditating to stabilize their minds, but only Zhong Shan and Wang Ku continued to observe the coffin for an extended time.


    At that moment, the shadow body of Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. He abruptly turned towards the north.


    "Corpse Sovereign, close the coffin and nail it shut!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    With a sense of exhaustion, Corpse Sovereign quickly pushed the coffin lid back into ce. Just as the lid sealed shut, a purple light descended from the distant sky.


    Nangong Sheng''s formation automatically activated.


    "Boom!"


    The purple light broke through the formation, shooting directly towards the square where Zhong Shan stood.

 Chapter 791: The Unlucky Observer

    <h4>Chapter 791: The Unlucky Observer</h4>


    A powerful purple beam pierced through the grand formation of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, shooting directly towards the za where Zhong Shan stood.


    The moment the purple light appeared, Zhong Shan immediately recognized it��the Sword of Immortal Execution! How could such a powerful weapon travel from the former capital of Xianyang to this ce in such a short time? It was unbelievably fast!


    Before the sword arrived, its intent reached first. The immense sword intent rushed downward, causing everyone''s hearts to tighten. The fierce sword intent seemed to pierce directly into everyone''s hearts.


    "Retreat!" Zhong Shan shouted loudly.


    Even those who were sitting cross-legged quickly moved to the sides.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The entire za was filled with violent sword energy. The sword energy destroyed all the decorations and sculptures in the za and then converged towards the center.


    At the moment of retreat, Mr. Corpse finally pushed the coffin lid back, but unfortunately, the ten coffin nails were not reattached.


    As everyone retreated violently, the purple light also reached above the giant purple coffin.


    The fierce purple sword hovered above the purple coffin, exuding a murderous aura and overwhelming dominance!


    "The Sword of Immortal Execution?" Wang Ku eximed in surprise.


    Everyone gathered around Zhong Shan.


    "Your Majesty, it really is the Sword of Immortal Execution!" the y Bodhisattva said with astonishment.


    The lid of the giant purple coffin closed, and the mourning of heaven and earth gradually ceased. The rain of tears in the sky also stopped, and the crying people of Lingxiao Heavenly Court suddenly felt much morefortable.


    One by one, they woke up from their stupor, looking dejected and exhausted.


    Most quickly sat down cross-legged to recuperate their exhausted spirits. However, this immense sorrow was not necessarily a bad thing. Emotions and realms are closely rted, and cultivators who had not experienced such deep sorrow for many years might break through their mental states and greatly increase their cultivation after this experience. Of course, there would also be those whose mental states would regress.


    Many strong individuals looked towards the direction of the pce. The purple light shooting into the sky from the pce carried a powerful murderous aura that reached the people''s hearts from afar.


    What exactly happened in the pce? Was all this caused by the emperor?


    In the za, the Sword of Immortal Execution floated above the giant purple coffin, protecting it, with its tip pointed in the direction of Zhong Shan and his group, as if it held a deep grudge against them. But protecting the coffin was more important, so it could not move forward to kill.


    However, the murderous intent of the Sword of Immortal Execution was pressing into everyone''s hearts. Zhong Shan knew that the sword was furious at this moment. If anyone dared to move the purple coffin, the Sword of Immortal Execution would fight to the death. The sword, which was already fierce enough when ''calm,'' would be incredibly savage when it was ready to die together with its enemies.


    "Zhong Shan, I''m scared!" Tian Ling''er clutched Zhong Shan''s sleeve.


    "Your Majesty, should we take the Sword of Immortal Execution?" Wang Ku asked.


    "Take the Sword of Immortal Execution? How confident are you?"


    "Seventy percent!"


    "No need!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Why?"


    "The sudden appearance of the Sword of Immortal Execution must be due to some kind of sensing. How did it sense us? Moreover, the sword now has the mindset of dying together with us. Will it self-destruct in desperation? Without absolute certainty, do not act rashly!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Understood!"


    Zhong Shan wanted to wait. He was waiting for the moment to subdue or even devour the Sword of Immortal Execution, waiting for his true body and the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail to return. Since the sword hade to Lingxiao Heavenly Court, it would never escape again.


    Zhong Shan and Di Xuan Sha were speeding towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court, carrying the unconscious Toad Lai with them.


    "Di Xuan Sha, hurry! We must reach Lingxiao Heavenly Court as quickly as possible!" Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    "Understood!"


    The two increased their speed even further. At that moment, the Toad Lai in Di Xuan Sha''s hand began to wake up groggily in the rushing wind.


    Seeing himself flying, Toad Lai was momentarily confused.


    "What is this...?" Toad Lai rubbed his eyes.


    Turning his head:


    "Zhong Shan, it''s you!" Toad Lai''s face changed drastically as he tried to spring up.


    "Knock him out!" Zhong Shan ordered coldly.


    "Crack!"


    Just as Toad Lai woke up, Di Xuan Sha knocked him out again.


    Ten Days Earlier, East Sea


    In a rtively remote pce of the East Sea Dragon Pce, Hao Meili flew in with Xiao Jin Long perched on her shoulder.


    "Xiao Jin, this time I promised Zhong Shan. With Ao Sihai leaving this world with Great Qin, you must take control of the entire dragon n," Hao Meili said with determination.


    "Is it really that important to control the dragon n?"


    "Of course. Zhong Shan is my only friend. It''s rare for him to ask me for help, so I mustn''t mess it up," Hao Meili said firmly.


    "Zhong Shan is your only friend? What about me?" Xiao Jin Long asked, a bit jealous.


    "You and the old man are my family. It was Zhong Shan who helped me avenge the old man. Now, you are my only family. Anyone who dares to hurt you, I''ll take their life!" Hao Meili said fiercely.


    "Hmm!" Xiao Jin Long was moved.


    "But the dragon n isn''t going anywhere. Why is Zhong Shan in such a hurry for me toe over? He didn''t even let me go to Great Qin to see how Ying and the others left," Hao Meili said, frowning.


    "Maybe Zhong Shan is just in a hurry," Xiao Jin suggested.


    "But why didn''t Zhong Shan want me to quickly grab the dragon n''s contract book? With the two of us being invincible, we could just take it directly. Then you could write my name on it, and everything would be done. Instead, he wants me to hide my identity and not interfere with your quest for the supreme position. What''s yours is mine, and what''s mine is yours," Hao Meili grumbled.


    "No, this has to be done by me. Zhong Shan is right. For a major n matter, it must be resolved internally to gain everyone''s approval. If you get involved, many dragons will not be convinced in the future," Xiao Jin Long exined.


    "They wouldn''t dare!" Hao Meili said discontentedly.


    "Of course, it wouldn''t matter to you and me, but the whole dragon n''s perspective is different. It''s rare for Zhong Shan to ask for your help. You wouldn''t want to mess up his ns, would you?" Xiao Jin asked.


    "Alright then, I''ll stay out of it for now. Besides, Zhong Shan also taught me the ''Heavenly Secrets Divination.'' I''ll study it for a while," Hao Meili said after thinking for a moment.


    "Leave it to me. Although Ao Sihai has branded me as a dragon n traitor, due to my bloodline, many dragons still acknowledge me. And now that Ao Sihai has left, I just need to gather a group of dragon n members. By then, everything will fall into ce, and you just need to go through the motions," Xiao Jin said.


    "Hmm!" Hao Meili nodded.


    Suddenly, Hao Meili''s Eyebrows Raised as She Looked Up to the Sky


    "What''s wrong?" Xiao Jin asked in confusion.


    "I don''t know. I feel like someone is spying on me! It seems like they''re in the sky, but also not of this world. Strange!" Hao Meili frowned.


    "Spying on you? Who has such power to spy on you?" Xiao Jin asked, puzzled.


    With a stern expression, Hao Meili looked at the sky and said, "If anyone dares to spy on me again, I curse you to be struck by a meteor shower, to suffer the Five Decays of Heaven and Man, to be struck by lightning, to have your hands and feet rot, your face covered in pimples, and to have sons with no butts...!"


    Hao Meili spewed a string of vicious curses, leaving Xiao Jin Long dumbfounded.


    "Alright, that spying feeling is gone!" Hao Meili said with a sense of delight.


    "It''s gone? Did your curse work?" Xiao Jin Long asked curiously.


    "Of course. If anyone dares to spy on me again, I''ll make their life miserable!" Hao Meili said joyfully.


    Hao Meili found a pce to begin studying the Heavenly Secrets Divination. Meanwhile, Xiao Jin Long started to seek out his former followers. Being a former dragon n prince, there were still many dragons willing to listen to him. Besides, his bloodline, like the immortal wolf n, was an original bloodline. Who would notply?


    As for the Heavenly Secrets Divination, Zhong Shan didn''t keep it to himself. After bringing it back from Great Qin, Zhong Shan knew it was no longer a private secret. Many people in Great Qin already knew about it, as Ying generously passed it down. Zhong Shan wouldn''t hold back either.


    All key officials of the Daoyin dynasty were taught the Heavenly Secrets Divination by Zhong Shan. Although it didn''t greatly enhance power, it provided protection. Even Hao Meili, who wasn''t officially part of the Daoyin dynasty, was taught the Heavenly Secrets Divination.


    In a Grand Hall of the Dragon Pce


    Xiao Jin Long, in his hundred-zhang-long dragon form, stood in the northern part of the grand hall, appearing immensely majestic. Before him stood three men.


    "Young master, the old supreme has branded you a traitor to the dragon n, so many dragons may resist you. Now, with the Four Dragons vying for supremacy, the three of us hold three of the slots. If we seed, we will definitely hand the dragon n''s contract book to you and pledge you as the supreme. You should be the rightful supreme of the dragon n!" one of the men said.


    "Four dragonspeting for the supreme position? Besides you three, how likely is Ao Mian to be the supreme?" Xiao Jin Long asked.


    "Ao Mian, as the son of the old supreme, has the support of thirty percent of the dragon n. But don''t worry, as long as we unite, the supreme will be ours," the man reassured.


    "Hmm!"


    "However, Ao Mian has been quite mysterioustely. It seems he has also received some guests," the man added.


    "Guests? What kind of guests?"


    "It seems they are from the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty. One of them is the former Crown Prince Fentian, who was once the Grand Crown Prince under Emperor Lu Guitian. Now, Lu Fentian is still a prince in the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty!"


    "The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty? Indeed!" Xiao Jin Long squinted his eyes.


    "What is it?"


    "Remember, we must obtain the dragon n''s contract book this time. I must be the new supreme of the dragon n," Xiao Jin Long said resolutely.


    "Yes!" the three men responded immediately.


    In the Undersea Pce of the East Sea, Known as the Mian Pce


    The Mian Pce was the residence of Ao Mian, the son of Ao Sihai. At this moment, Ao Mian, transformed into a handsome man, stood in the grand hall with seven or eight others.


    Among them, there was one person whom Zhong Shan would recognize instantly if he were there��Sekong from the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty.

 Chapter 792: The Supreme Election

    <h4>Chapter 792: The Supreme Election</h4>


    Ao Mian looked at the eight people before him.


    Lu Fentian, a prince of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, was the elder brother of Kong Lietian.


    Kong Shang, the great peacock who once ambushed the phoenixes on Phoenix Ind with Kong Lietian, is now the Supreme of the Peacock n.


    Seku, an important figure in the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty.


    And four other unknown individuals, clearly also significant members of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty.


    "Will you all help me attain the Supreme position?" Ao Mian asked with a frown.


    "We''ve discussed this many times over the past days. Ao Sihai is the Supreme of the Dragon n. Since he left this realm, you, as his son, are the natural heir to his position. We are all willing to assist you!" Lu Fentian said with a smile.


    "Really? No ulterior motives?"


    "Ulterior motives? The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty is sincere. I will be honest with you. There are motives, but they do not conflict with your goals. Ao Sihai detested the Great Zhen Dynasty. We only wish to ally with the Dragon n. If your father were here, he would agree with this alliance. Does that count as an ulterior motive?" Lu Fentian exined.


    Hearing Lu Fentian''s words, Ao Mian finally smiled.


    "With your assistance, I am immensely grateful. Please help me through these critical days." Ao Mian quickly said with a smile.


    "Don''t worry. We won''t leave until you be the Supreme of the Dragon n!" Lu Fentian reassured with a smile.


    At that moment, Seku, the bald man, suddenly narrowed his eyes, his body hair standing on end.


    "Crown Prince, what is that ce over there?" Seku suddenly pointed in a direction.


    Everyone looked at Seku in confusion. Lu Fentian frowned slightly.


    Following Seku''s finger, Ao Mian said, "That''s Li Long''s residence, another candidate for Supreme. Why?"


    "Another candidate? He''speting with you for the Supreme position?" Seku raised an eyebrow.


    "That''s right. Is there a problem?" Ao Mian asked in confusion.


    A problem? Seku''s survival until now wasn''t due to great strength but his acute sense of danger. This ability had allowed him to escape death numerous times. The feeling he was getting now indicated extreme, imminent danger.


    Inside, Seku felt a chill. The ce where the other Supreme candidate resided? Such a terrifying presence was there?


    This ce was no longer safe!


    "Seku, what''s wrong?" Lu Fentian frowned, looking at Seku.


    Seku nced at everyone, struggling to maintain hisposure, then looked at Lu Fentian and said, "This, this...!"


    "This what? If you have something to say, spit it out!" Lu Fentian''s frown deepened.


    "I... I suddenly remembered something very important," Seku swallowed and said.


    "What is it?"


    "I left a furnace of pills brewing at home. I left in such a hurry that I forgot to turn off the fire. I must return immediately. My apologies, everyone," Seku said, full of remorse.


    Everyone stared at Seku in shock. A furnace of pills at home? What nonsense was this?


    "Apologies, everyone. I must take my leave!" Seku hurried to the main hall door, not waiting for anyone to hold him back, and flew off immediately.


    Everyone watched Seku leave, feeling like a flock of crows was flying over their heads. Was Seku out of his mind?


    The one with the ugliest expression was Lu Fentian. He had just assured Ao Mian that none of them would leave until he became the Supreme of the Dragon n. Yet, Seku had just run off?


    Lu Fentian''s eyes turned cold as he resolved to report Seku''s behavior upon his return.


    Seku, in a panic, dove into the sea and headed straight for the ocean surface.


    "Boom!"


    Seku burst out of the sea, looking at the ocean below, swallowing nervously.


    "How terrifying! What kind of monster is that? It''s even scarier than Zhong Shan!" Seku wiped the sweat from his forehead.


    Without warning Lu Fentian and the others, Seku headed west alone, returning to the dynasty as if the lives of those left behind had nothing to do with him.


    "Lu Fentian, how are you going to help me?" Ao Mian asked.


    "The Supreme of the Dragon n is determined by the election of the entire Dragon n, right?" Lu Fentian smiled.


    "That''s right. Unless it''s a dragon with the primordial bloodline, the usual way to elect a Supreme is through the vote of the entire n. Even the previous Supreme has no say in it," Ao Mian nodded.


    "Do you have the support of thirty percent of the Dragon n?" Lu Fentian inquired.


    "Yes, I have the support of thirty percent. The other three candidates each have twenty percent. Although I currently have the most support, if any of the other three withdraw, their supporters will be redistributed. At that point, my victory isn''t guaranteed," Ao Mian nodded.


    "But what if you had the support of more than fifty percent of the Dragon n?" Lu Fentian suggested confidently.


    "Oh?" Ao Mian''s eyes lit up.


    "Just follow my lead," Lu Fentian said with a confident gleam in his eyes.


    Dragons from all over the world gathered in the East Sea for the uing Dragon Assembly to discuss the election of the Supreme.


    The four candidates were Ao Mian, Li Long, Zhao Long, and Zhou Long. Each was a highly esteemed Dragon Emperor, with Ao Mian being the son of Ao Sihai and having the most support.


    Eight dayster, a day before the Dragon Assembly, shocking news spread.


    Just before the Dragon Assembly, Zhao Long and Ao Mian were ambushed and poisoned.


    Zhao Long was killed on the spot, and Ao Mian was severely injured and unconscious. Who dared to attack in the East Sea? Who?


    The dragons ran wild, roaring with rage. The Dragon n, once the number one demon beast n in the world, had fallen to the point where Supreme candidates were attacked and killed in their own homes?


    Which dragon would not be furious? Which dragon would not roar in anger? This was humiliation and a provocation! Had the Dragon n fallen to such a state?


    At this time, a strange rumor spread throughout the East Sea.


    Who killed them? Isn''t it obvious? The Dragon Assembly is tomorrow, and killing two candidates benefits whom the most? Of course, the remaining candidates. Fewer candidates mean lesspetition.


    The remaining candidates were Li Long and Zhou Long. Who could be so ruthless? Could the fate of the Dragon n be entrusted to such individuals?


    Suddenly, with Zhao Long''s death, many of his supporters defected to Ao Mian''s camp. Even within the camps of Li Long and Zhou Long, many dragons wavered.


    Doubts filled the air. The East Sea fell into a state of silence.


    Li Long''s body was brought into a grand hall. Xiao Jin, along with Li Long and Zhou Long, looked on silently.


    "Brother Zhao died so miserably. It must be Ao Mian. They killed Brother Zhao and then cried thief to catch the thief!" one person said with a face full of hatred.


    "Ao Mian must not be the Supreme. If someone like him bes the Dragon n''s Supreme, our n will never have peace," another said with resentment.


    "But who exactly killed Brother Zhao? I, Zhou Long, will make him pay for this blood debt!"


    "Blood for blood!" Li Long said harshly.


    "Wait!" Xiao Jin suddenly said.


    Xiao Jin flew into the inner hall and quickly brought out Hao Meili.


    "Hao Meili?" Zhou Long eximed in surprise.


    Li Long also frowned at Hao Meili.


    "Meili, this is Brother Zhao who was assassinated!" Xiao Jinlong said with a face full of sorrow.


    Suddenly, Zhou Long''s expression changed with excitement. "Hao Meili? Can you find out who killed Brother Zhao?"


    "Why do you want to know?" Hao Meili rolled her eyes.


    "But..."


    "I''ll just curse him. Whoever killed this Azure Dragon, I''ll curse them to die a horrible death, exploding from within!" Hao Meili said bluntly.


    Zhou Long and Li Long exchanged nces, a strange look shing in their eyes. That was too straightforward!


    In another pce in the East Sea...


    "Kong Shang, well done. Now half of the Dragon n supports Ao Mian!" Lu Fentian smiled.


    "It''s all thanks to the techniques taught by the Holy One. But that Zhao Long was tough. Even after being poisoned, he managed to strike me. My chest still hurts!" Kong Shang frowned.


    "Are you okay?"


    "It was fine until you mentioned it. Now it feels worse, increasingly painful. This is not good!"


    Kong Shang quickly sat down in a meditative position.


    The others watched Kong Shang curiously, but his expression became more pained. Energy within him surged chaotically, producing a strange crackling sound.


    "This is bad!" Kong Shang shouted.


    "Boom!"


    With a deafening explosion, Kong Shang''s energy went out of control and he exploded, causing a massive tsunami in that part of the sea.


    Lu Fentian, who narrowly avoided the explosion, looked terrified. He nced at Ao Mian and asked, "What kind of technique is this from your Dragon n? It''s so powerful!"


    Seeing Lu Fentian''s bewilderment, Ao Mian swallowed nervously and shook his head. "I''ve never seen it before!"


    At the Crystal Pce, the site of the Dragon Assembly, the Dragon n''s covenant scroll hung high in the air.


    Ten thousand dragons qualified to attend the assembly had gathered in front of the Crystal Pce.


    The four candidates, no, now only three, each took a position. The dragons chose their respective camps and could persuade others to join their camp. Dragons also had the right to change camps during the assembly.


    Starting at midnight and ending at the hour of the pig, when the hour of the pig ended, the camp with the most dragons would have its leader dered the next Supreme.


    An elder dragon stepped to the center of the za and said, "Everyone, the Supreme determines the rise and fall of our Dragon n. Choose wisely. At the end of the hour of the pig, the new Supreme will be born, and all dragons must unconditionally obey him. Do you understand?"


    "Roar!"


    Ten thousand dragons roared in unison.


    "Now, begin!"


    To the east of Shenzhou...


    Ao Sihai, looking furious, led a group of dragons flying back from the holy capital of Xianyang. Throughout the journey, Ao Sihai felt a deep sense of frustration and resentment, his face showing his unwillingness and grievance.


    "Supreme, we will reach the East Sea in one day," one of the dragons said.


    Ao Sihai took a deep breath and nodded. "The new Supreme is about to be chosen, right?"


    "With your return, there will be no need to choose a new Supreme!" the dragon replied with a smile.


    "Yes! Let''s hurry up!" Ao Sihai ordered.


    "Yes!"

 Chapter 793: Two Supremes

    <h4>Chapter 793: Two Supremes</h4>


    In front of the Crystal Pce in the East Sea, the Dragon Assembly was held.


    Originally, there were four candidates for the Supreme position. Ao Mian had the support of thirty percent of the Dragon n, while Zhao Long, Zhou Long, and Li Long each had twenty percent. The remaining ten percent of the dragons remained neutral, not joining any camp.


    However, after Zhao Long''s death and Ao Mian''s injury, the election dynamics shifted dramatically.


    Even before the speeches began, half of the Dragon n supported Ao Mian. The rest were either neutral or aligned with Zhou Long and Li Long.


    Ao Mian looked at the dragons before him, a faint hint of satisfaction appearing on his lips.


    Clutching his ''injured'' chest, Ao Mian walked to the center of the za.


    "I am Ao Mian. Yesterday, I was injured, but I survived. Unfortunately, Zhao Long did not. I don''t know who was cruel enough to do this. Zhao Long was a Dragon King, a formidable presence. No one could quietly harm him like that unless they used poison first. I was poisoned before I was attacked. Zhao Long must have been too. Zhao Long was honest and loyal to the Dragon n. We must avenge his death, whether I be the Supreme or not. This blood debt must be repaid!"


    Ao Mian''s passionate speech moved many of Zhao Long''s supporters and the neutral dragons, causing many to join Ao Mian''s camp.


    Yes, who killed Zhao Long? It couldn''t be Ao Mian. Could it be the other two candidates? If one of them became Supreme, the Dragon n would never have peace.


    After Ao Mian''s speech, his camp now had the support of sixty percent of the dragons.


    With a look of ''grief'', Ao Mian stepped back and stood to the side.


    Next, it was Zhou Long and Li Long''s turn.


    The two of them exchanged a nce and then walked to the center of the za together.


    Seeing Zhou Long and Li Longe out at the same time, almost all the dragons were slightly surprised. What were they going to do?


    Li Long remained silent while Zhou Long began to speak.


    "Brother Zhao is dead. Dragon King Zhao is dead. We must avenge his death. But this revenge has already been exacted. The culprit who killed Brother Zhao was dealt with yesterday. Who was it? Some people here know very well. We don''t want to exploit Brother Zhao''s death. We only want to fulfill Brother Zhao''sst wish!" Zhou Long said, taking a deep breath.


    A look of confusion shed in the eyes of all the dragons.


    "Ten days ago, Brother Zhao suddenly found us and proposed the selection of our Dragon n''s Supreme. He asked us to withdraw from this election!" Zhou Long said.


    "You''re lying! Dragon King Zhao wouldn''t stoop so low!"


    "Yes, this is a fair election. Dragon King Zhao knew that."


    "Don''t nder Dragon King Zhao!"


    The dragons shouted.


    "Brother Zhao did say that, and he himself wanted to withdraw!" Zhou Long said.


    "Uh?" The dragons paused, stopping their usations.


    Ao Mian''s eyes narrowed, sensing something amiss.


    Not far away, Lu Fentian and the others also felt something was wrong. In another hall, Hao Meili smiled and said, "Xiao Jin, your team is quite eloquent!"


    "Do you know who Dragon King Zhao wanted to support?" Zhou Long shouted.


    "Who?"


    "Who else?"


    "Could it be Ao Mian? It shouldn''t be!"


    "It''s our Young Master, a dragon with the primordial bloodline, appearing in our Dragon n for the first time in tens of thousands of years, Ao Jin!" Zhou Long announced.


    The dragons were taken aback.


    "Our Young Master, Ao Jin, is the only one with the primordial bloodline in our n, a dragon destined for greatness. Brother Zhao wanted him to be the Supreme," Zhou Long continued.


    A murmur spread among the dragons. Ao Jin, a dragon with the primordial bloodline, was a rarity and highly revered. If Zhao Long supported Ao Jin, it carried significant weight.


    Ao Mian''s face darkened. This twist in the election could undermine his position.


    Lu Fentian, observing from the sidelines, clenched his fists. This revtion was unexpected and could jeopardize their ns.


    Hao Meili, still smiling, watched the proceedings with interest.


    "With the support of the primordial bloodline, our Dragon n will thrive. Brother Zhao''s wish was to see the Dragon n united and powerful under Ao Jin''s leadership," Zhou Long finished.


    The crowd buzzed with excitement. The support for Ao Jin grew as more dragons moved to his camp, swayed by the weight of the primordial bloodline and Zhao Long''s endorsement.


    As the hour of the pig approached, it became clear that the support was tipping in favor of Ao Jin. The Dragon n''s future hung in the bnce as the dragons made their final choices.


    In the distance, Ao Sihai and his entourage flew towards the East Sea, determined to reach the assembly in time. The fate of the Dragon n and the selection of the new Supreme depended on their arrival.


    As Zhou Long finished speaking, the crowd of dragons fell silent.


    "Roar!"


    From a nearby pce, a dragon''s roar echoed as Xiao Jin suddenly soared into the sky, flying swiftly into the midst of the dragons.


    Despite Ao Jin beingbeled a traitor by Ao Sihai, many dragons still harbored resentment towards him. However, Ao Jin possessed the primordial bloodline, the source from which all dragon bloodlines originated. Despite their resentment, no dragon dared to stop him, for his bloodline alonemanded respect.


    Xiao Jinnded in the za, and Ao Mian''s face changed dramatically.


    "How dare a traitor to the Dragon n participate in our assembly?" Ao Mian shouted in fury.


    "The old Supreme is gone. What traitor is there to speak of? All dragons who support me, support Ao Jin. He is our hope. Once, our Dragon n ruled the world. Now we are in decline. Only a dragon with the primordial bloodline can lead us back to glory. All who support Ao Jin,e here!" Ao Mian shouted.


    To make Ao Jin the Supreme? This idea had long been ingrained in the minds of all dragons, almost an instinctual obedience, a lower bloodline''s submission to a higher one.


    All of Zhou Long and Li Long''s supporters, and many dragons who had joined Ao Mian''s camp, quickly moved to Ao Jin''s side. Even the neutral dragons chose to submit to Ao Jin.


    In an instant, the situation reversed dramatically. Out of the ten thousand dragons, seventy percent, or seven thousand, chose Ao Jin.


    "How dare you! She can''t even transform into a human form yet. How can she be the Supreme?" Ao Mian shouted.


    "Qualifications? Our Dragon n''s records state that the higher the dragon''s bloodline, theter they can transform. The higher the potential for leading us to greatness. Ao Jin is now at the Emperor Extreme Realm, an unprecedented primordial bloodline. What does our future hold with her leading us?" Zhou Long shouted back.


    Zhou Long''s words caused another wave of defections from Ao Mian''s camp. Nearly two-thirds of Ao Mian''s supporters moved to Ao Jin''s side.


    "No, this can''t be happening! Lu Fentian, what do we do?" Ao Mian shouted desperately towards a distant pce.


    The dragons turned their eyes towards the pce.


    Under the gaze of the entire Dragon n, Lu Fentian and his followers reluctantly stepped out, their eyes filled with me for Ao Mian.


    "So, you finally show yourselves?" Xiao Jin said with a cold smile.


    All the dragons turned to look at Xiao Jin.


    Xiao Jin opened her mouth and spat out a memory crystal. With a surge of magical power, an image was projected, showing the scene from a day ago when Zhao Long was poisoned and killed by Kong Shang.


    Seeing this memory crystal, all the dragons were shocked, their eyes filled with rage.


    "Poison? Ambush? Is this how Dragon King Zhao died?" the dragons roared in outrage.


    "I know that person! He was with them! They killed Dragon King Zhao!" a knowledgeable dragon shouted.


    "Ao Mian, you bring shame to the Dragon n, conspiring with outsiders to murder our Dragon King! If the Dragon n falls into your hands, we will be doomed, hunted, and devoured by all. You are the true traitor!" Ao Jin used Ao Mian.


    Ao Jin''s words shook Ao Mian, making him dizzy, while Lu Fentian and his followers were surrounded.


    Dragons who had supported Ao Mian quickly abandoned him and joined Ao Jin''s camp.


    "No, this can''t be! How do you have this record?" Lu Fentian screamed in disbelief.


    Lu Fentian couldn''t believe it. How could such a perfect n fall apart? Wasn''t that ce a private area for Zhao Long?


    "How could everything be recorded? Impossible, absolutely impossible," Lu Fentian eximed in disbelief.


    In another distant pce, Hao Meili burst intoughter.


    "Zhong Shan, you are so clever. You even anticipated this. How are you so smart? Did you foresee this months ago? Incredible!" Hao Meili excitedly muttered to herself.


    Too smart? Zhong Shan didn''t foresee this specific event but was well-versed in dealing with tricks like Lu Fentian''s. When Zhong Shan first arrived in Shenzhou and faced Mr. Shui Jing in Wushuang City during the mayoral election, he had employed far moreplex strategies. Lu Fentian''s n had long been within Zhong Shan''s calctions.


    Otherwise, why would Zhong Shan let Hao Meilie alone? He had ounted for every possibility. That''s why people called him a genius.


    When Hao Meili arrived, Zhong Shan instructed her to use a memory crystal to record all candidates'' actions for twelve hours.


    Lu Fentian and Ao Mian were both in disbelief, but Ao Mian knew he was finished. He could forget about bing the Supreme of the Dragon n and might even face public execution by the Dragon n, given his earlier shouts for blood vengeance.


    All dragons now supported Ao Jin, a phenomenon not seen in many years.


    "Roar!"


    Xiao Jin let out a long roar.


    "Greetings, Supreme!" all the dragons shouted in unison.


    "Roar!"


    The dragons roared in celebration, heralding the birth of their new Supreme.


    Xiao Jin soared into the sky, biting down on the Dragon n''s covenant scroll hanging in the air.


    With a twist of her mouth, the scroll unfurled. A drop of essence blood was expelled, merging into the covenant scroll, which immediately radiated golden light.


    Just arriving at the East Sea, Ao Sihai, leading a group of dragons, suddenly narrowed his eyes.


    "It hasn''t reached the hour of the pig yet. How did it happen early?" Ao Sihai was filled with urgency.


    Stepping down, Ao Sihai left the group and quickly dashed towards the depths of the East Sea.


    The dragons, slightly surprised, quickly followed.


    In front of the Crystal Pce, after Xiao Jin had the covenant scroll recognize her as its master, she called out, "The new signee, Hao Meili!"


    "Coming!" Hao Meili flew over happily.


    Seeing Hao Meili approach, the dragons were slightly taken aback, but no one stopped her. Almost everyone knew Hao Meili, as she grew up in the Dragon Pce. Despite being an adversary to the old Supreme, she was the best friend of the new Supreme.


    Having her sign the contract was perfectly normal.


    Arriving before Xiao Jin, Hao Meili quickly cut her palm, letting arge amount of blood spill out toplete the signing ceremony.


    "Done!" Hao Meili smiled.


    The covenant scroll rolled up and was swallowed by Ao Jin.


    Ao Sihai returned and, upon reaching the vicinity of the Crystal Pce, saw the gathering of thousands of dragons celebrating.


    A giant golden dragon floated in the air with Hao Meili standing on its head. The shouts of "Supreme" from countless dragons rang in his ears.


    Ao Jin? Hao Meili?


    "Outrageous!"


    Ao Sihai roared in anger.


    His roar drew the attention of all the dragons. When they saw who had shouted, they were stunned.


    The old Supreme?


    The dragons looked between Ao Sihai and Ao Jin. Now what? Two Supremes?

 Chapter 794: Forced Ascension

    <h4>Chapter 794: Forced Ascension</h4>


    Two Supremes?


    The dragons were stunned. Hadn''t Ao Sihai left with the Great Qin? What was going on? They had just elected a new Supreme, and had sworn allegiance. The assumption was that the old Supreme had left this realm. But now the old Supreme had returned?


    The dragons were conflicted, ncing between Xiao Jin and Ao Sihai. Two Supremes together? Impossible. A n could have only one Supreme. Having two would create chaos. Who should they follow?


    Silently, the dragons moved aside, creating a space for the old and new Supremes to confront each other. This was a matter for the Dragon n, but none of them knew what to do. Better to let the two Supremes resolve it themselves.


    "Ao Sihai? Didn''t you leave with Ying?" Hao Meili raised an eyebrow.


    "Leave this realm, huh!"


    Mentioning it only made Ao Sihai angrier. He nced around.


    "The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s Lu Fentian greets the Dragon n Supreme!" Lu Fentian and his men quickly bowed to Ao Sihai.


    "Father!" Ao Mian called out with a hopeful expression.


    The dragons looked angrily at the group.


    "What is going on?" Ao Sihai demanded.


    "The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty sincerely seeks an alliance with the Dragon n!" Lu Fentian said.


    As soon as Lu Fentian spoke, the dragons erupted in anger.


    "They killed Dragon King Zhao! Blood for blood!"


    "They conspired to control our election!"


    "Kill them!"


    "Kill them!"


    The dragons'' rage surged.


    Ao Sihai''s pupils contracted. A dragon quickly exined the situation to him.


    After hearing the exnation, Ao Sihai''s eyes grew cold as he looked at Ao Mian.


    "Father, I was wrong! I allied with Lu Fentian, but Zhao Long conspired with the traitor too! Besides, Zhao Long''s death wasn''t entirely my fault!" Ao Mian pleaded.


    "From this day forth, you are stripped of your title as Dragon King and exiled from the Dragon n. You are never to set foot in the East Sea again!" Ao Sihai dered coldly.


    "Father!" Ao Mian cried out in despair.


    "Ao Sihai, are you shielding your son? He kills the Dragon King, and you think exile is enough?" Hao Meili said angrily.


    "When did the matters of the Dragon n be your business, outsider?" Ao Sihai retorted coldly.


    "I have a contract with the Dragon n!" Hao Meili said arrogantly.


    "You''re still an outsider. Your name will soon be removed from the covenant scroll. You are not wee here. Get out!" Ao Sihai said icily.


    "Ao Sihai, how dare you tell me to leave? Are you tired of living, you...!" Hao Meili was enraged.


    "Meili!" Xiao Jin suddenly called out.


    Xiao Jin had to interrupt Hao Meili because she was about to start her curse.


    "What?" Hao Meili snapped, annoyed at being interrupted.


    "Don''t curse him. Regardless, during your growth, Ao Sihai did take care of you to some extent," Xiao Jin said.


    "No, how did he take care of me? He just took me in. It was my master who always looked after me. What does his life or death have to do with me?" Hao Meili immediately retorted.


    "But he did care for me. I can''t watch you kill him!" Xiao Jin shook her head.


    Seeing Xiao Jin''s determination, Hao Meili could only swallow her anger and red fiercely at Ao Sihai. "Fine, I won''t kill him!"


    "Ao Jin, is the Dragon n''s covenant scroll in your possession?" Ao Sihai asked sternly.


    "It is, Supreme," Xiao Jin nodded.


    "Xiao Jin, what are you calling him? You are the Supreme!" Hao Meili eximed, exasperated. They had fought hard for the title of Supreme, and now it seemed like it was being handed back.


    Hearing Xiao Jin''s address, the dragons were slightly puzzled, but Lu Fentian and his group showed faint smiles, and Ao Mian''s frown began to rx.


    "He did show me kindness," Xiao Jin said, shaking her head.


    "You''re driving me crazy!" Hao Meili was visibly upset.


    Ao Sihai stared at Xiao Jin for a long moment. "Even though you once betrayed the Dragon n, you have shown remorse. I will give you another chance. You will remain the Dragon n''s young master. Hand over the covenant scroll."


    Xiao Jin stared back at Ao Sihai. All the dragons watched the interaction, and Hao Meili was visibly unhappy.


    "Supreme, before handing you the Dragon n''s covenant scroll, I have a question for the future of our n."


    "What question?" Ao Sihai asked, his brow furrowing slightly.


    "In the future, will our Dragon n ally with the Great Zhen or the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty?" Xiao Jin asked.


    Hearing Xiao Jin''s question, all the dragons looked at Ao Sihai. Indeed, the world had been reduced to these two dynasties.


    "The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty sincerely requests an alliance with the Dragon n. Your status will be equivalent to that of the national beast," Lu Fentian quickly interjected, bowing.


    Lu Fentian''s plea caused the dragons to react with disgust.


    "Meili!" Xiao Jin nudged Hao Meili.


    "What?" Hao Meili responded, still annoyed.


    "Before leaving, Zhong Shan anticipated this situation. In case you forgot, he gave you a purple pouch. Hurry!" Xiao Jin whispered.


    Though still upset, Hao Meili remembered the purple pouch Zhong Shan had given her and quickly retrieved it.


    "Ao Sihai, I, Zhong Shan, sincerely request the Dragon n''s alliance with the Great Zhen Dynasty. Your status will be on par with the Xuanwu n, the Phoenix n, and the Tiger n. All past grievances will be wiped clean. Please consider carefully," Hao Meili read from the note in the pouch.


    Ao Sihai''s expression grew darker as he listened.


    "Hahahahaha!" Ao Sihai suddenlyughed loudly.


    Everyone looked at Ao Sihai, puzzled.


    "Zhong Shan? You need me now? Hahaha! Dream on. I will never join the Great Zhen. The Great Zhen? Hmph!" Ao Sihai scoffed coldly.


    Seeing Ao Sihai''s attitude, Lu Fentian was overjoyed.


    "What''s wrong with the Great Zhen?" Hao Meili snapped, displeased.


    "Enough, Ao Jin, hand over the covenant scroll," Ao Sihaimanded, ignoring Hao Meili.


    "Sorry, but the Dragon n cannot be handed over to you," Ao Jin suddenly shook her head.


    "What did you say?" Ao Sihai''s eyes widened.


    Many dragons were also taken aback, and Hao Meili looked at Xiao Jin curiously.


    "Ao Sihai, you abandoned the Dragon n for your own ambitions. You returned only to reim power. The Dragon n needs a leader who prioritizes the n above all. I have the bloodline, the support of our people, and the conviction to lead us to greatness," Xiao Jin dered firmly.


    The dragons murmured in agreement, seeing the truth in Xiao Jin''s words. Ao Sihai''s return was clearly motivated by a desire for control rather than the welfare of the Dragon n.


    "You''re making a grave mistake," Ao Sihai warned, his voiceced with menace.


    "No, Ao Sihai, the mistake was yours. You lost the trust of your people," Xiao Jin retorted calmly.


    With the covenant scroll secure, Xiao Jin had the authority and the moral high ground. The Dragon n''s future rested in her capable hands.


    "Ao Sihai, you are just like the previous Supreme Ao Lie, too impulsive. The Dragon n did not serve you as ves but hoped you would lead us to prosperity. Though your cultivation is high, your temperament, vision, and judgment are insufficient to guide the Dragon n to glory. I cannot entrust the fate of the Dragon n to you!" Xiao Jin shook her head.


    Hearing Xiao Jin''s words, many dragons nodded in agreement.


    "You dare to go back on your word?" Ao Sihai said coldly.


    "It''s not that I''m going back on my word. I intended to return the Supreme position, but now I see it''s not right. Though you have been kind to me, I must be responsible for the entire Dragon n. I will not return the Supreme position. I, Ao Jin, am the new Supreme of the Dragon n! For the first time in tens of thousands of years, the Dragon n has unanimously elected a Supreme. I am the Supreme!" Xiao Jin dered.


    "Greetings, Supreme!" Countless wise dragons bowed to Xiao Jin.


    "Greetings, Supreme!" More and more dragons bowed to Xiao Jin.


    Many dragons abandoned Ao Sihai and bowed to Xiao Jin instead.


    "Nonsense! I am the Dragon n''s Supreme!" Ao Sihai shouted.


    "I am the true heir of the Dragon n. I am the Supreme!" Xiao Jin stood tall and proud.


    "Well done, Xiao Jin!" Hao Meili''s previous displeasure vanished. This was exactly what she wanted to see.


    "Master of the Law Enforcement Hall, listen to mymand! Arrest these conspirators on the spot!" Xiao Jin pointed at Lu Fentian.


    "Understood!" A giant dragon immediately responded.


    Seeing the situation turn against them, Lu Fentian and his subordinates quickly fled. Seven of them fled rapidly, but hundreds of dragons roared and chased after them.


    "Rebellion! This is rebellion!" Ao Sihai roared in fury.


    "Ao Sihai, in the past, Hao Meili and I grew up under your protection. We won''t harm you, but in the grand scheme of things, the Dragon n can no longer endure turmoil. Please ascend!" Xiao Jin called out again.


    "Outrageous! You dare to force me to ascend?" Ao Sihai''s chest heaved with anger.


    "The Dragon n is about to ally with the Great Zhen Dynasty. With your unquenchable hatred for the Great Zhen, we will inevitably be enemies. None of us want to see that day. We do not wish for the Dragon n to tear itself apart. We plead with you to ascend!"


    "Please ascend, old Supreme!" A dragon suddenly shouted.


    "Please ascend, old Supreme!"


    "Please ascend, old Supreme!"


    The chorus of pleas grew louder as the dragons, representing all dragons in the world, collectively urged Ao Sihai to ascend. This was reminiscent of how Ao Lie was once forced out of this realm by his master, Di Xuan.


    "You...you!" Ao Sihai was seething with rage.


    "If you won''t do it willingly, I''ll help you!" Hao Meili, in high spirits, shouted.


    "I curse you with a great thunder strike, a storm of lightning, and a heavenly tribtion!" Hao Meili shouted.


    "Boom!"


    With a thunderous roar, a bolt of heavenly lightning struck from the sky, diving straight into the sea, aiming at Ao Sihai.


    All the dragons were stunned. Had she really summoned a heavenly tribtion? They stared at Hao Meili in disbelief. Wasn''t this too exaggerated?


    "Rumble!"


    More and more lightning bolts descended from the sky. The sea surface was soon covered with dark clouds, heralding an overwhelming heavenly tribtion.


    Ao Sihai''s eyes were filled with shame and fury. At this moment, he finally understood the terrifying power of Hao Meili. No wonder Xiao Jin had warned her not to kill him. Was she a demon? Could she summon heavenly lightning with just a word?


    The lightning bolts grew stronger and stronger. Shamed and furious, Ao Sihai burst out of the sea, forced by the dragons to face the tribtion head-on.


    "Protect the old Supreme during the tribtion. Send him off with honor!" Xiao Jin shouted.


    "Roar!"


    The dragons roared in unison, soaring out of the East Sea to protect Ao Sihai as he underwent his tribtion.

 Chapter 795: The Beginning of Corpse Transformation

    <h4>Chapter 795: The Beginning of Corpse Transformation</h4>


    In Lingxiao Heavenly Court!


    The shadow body of Zhong Shan flickered and disappeared from everyone''s sight. Although the ministers were puzzled, no one investigated. Soon, Di Xuanhua descended onto the square.


    "You''re back?" Yi Yan greeted.


    "Yes!" Di Xuanhua nodded.


    Then, Di Xuanhua''s eyes narrowed as he stared at the ten-zhang-long purple coffin in the center of the square and the floating Zhuxian Sword above it.


    "Sister, where did Zhong Shan go?" Ling''er asked Bao''er.


    "The Emperor is dealing with the captured frog toad, he''ll be back soon!" Di Xuanhua replied.


    As Di Xuanhua finished speaking, Zhong Shan reappeared in the square, his shadow body and main body merging once again.


    "Strange, so strange!" Huan Ji circled Zhong Shan, inspecting him.


    Zhong Shan smiled at her. Typically, Zhong Shan wouldn''t show both bodies in front of others.


    "Zhong Shan, you''ve changed your clothes!" Tian Ling''er observed.


    The women looked at Zhong Shan with tender eyes. Zhong Shan nodded to them.


    "Alright, let''s take a look at this giant coffin. Who do you think is inside? Any guesses?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The Zhuxian Swords originally belonged to the Sage Tongtian. It''s likely he''s inside," Mr. Corpse said gravely.


    "Are you sure?"


    "Not entirely!" Mr. Corpse shook his head.


    "Oh?"


    "It''s very likely that it''s the Sage Tongtian, but nothing is absolute. However, one thing is certain: it''s the corpse of a Sage!" Mr. Corpse said solemnly.


    "Yes!" Wang Ku nodded in agreement.


    "Zhong Shan, do you know why the coffin has been absorbing so much ck energy these past few days?" Huan Ji suddenly asked.


    Huan Ji''s words were only heard by Zhong Shan.


    "ck energy?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow. Where was this ck energying from?


    "Sire, what ck energy?" the y Bodhisattva asked in confusion.


    "It''s that ck energy, I can''t really exin it, but it''s definitely ck energy. Every day, a lot of it rushes to the coffin and is absorbed!" Huan Ji exined.


    Seeing Huan Ji''s certainty, Zhong Shan''s expression changed.


    "Husband, what ck energy?" Bao''er also looked puzzled.


    "I don''t know, but I''m certain that some kind of unseen energy is constantly being absorbed by the giant coffin, non-stop, day and night," Zhong Shan said, frowning.


    "Not good!" Mr. Corpse suddenly eximed.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Sire, quickly, clear the Zhuxian Sword, we must nail the coffin shut immediately, or there will be dire consequences!" Mr. Corpse shouted urgently.


    Dire consequences?


    Without questioning Mr. Corpse further, Zhong Shan immediately acted. The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail suddenly appeared in front of him.


    "Di Xuanhua, Wang Ku, let''s go!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, Di Xuanhua, and Wang Ku rushed forward.


    "Boom!"


    In an instant, the Zhuxian Sword emitted a blinding purple light. An endless amount of ferocious energy burst forth, filling the sky with purple sword qi. The violent sword qi surged towards Di Xuanhua, Wang Ku, and the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    Zhong Shan quickly retreated, shielding everyone.


    "Boom!"


    Di Xuanhua''s Severing World Golden Wheel struck fiercely against the Zhuxian Sword. The Golden Wheel was sent flying, while the Zhuxian Sword merely trembled.


    "ng!"


    Wang Ku''s bronze throne collided powerfully with the Zhuxian Sword, but neither side gained an advantage.


    "The Zhuxian Sword has be stronger?" Mr. Corpse eximed in surprise.


    At that moment, the Severing World Golden Wheel and the bronze throne struck again simultaneously.


    "Boom!"


    With a deafening explosion, the Zhuxian Sword staggered backward over ten zhang.


    "Ahwoo!"


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail swallowed the Zhuxian Sword in one bite.


    "Boom!"


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail crashed uncontrobly into the ground, causing a thunderous rumble.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail trembled violently, indicating that the Zhuxian Sword was fiercely struggling inside.


    Zhong Shan pointed with his hand, and the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail soared into the sky, bursting out of the formation and thrashing wildly in midair. Though it didn''t growrger, the battle with the Zhuxian Sword was intense. A massive ck hole appeared in the sky as the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail fought ferociously within it.


    The Zhuxian Sword, the leader of the four swords, was not easy to digest.


    With the Zhuxian Sword swallowed and its purple glow gone, the ck mist around the giant coffin became visible.


    Large amounts of ck mist gathered and dispersed around the coffin.


    At the very top of the purple coffin, directly above the sage''s head, the ck mist formed a character.


    A pitch-ck ''?'' character floated above the coffin, faint and eerie. Looking at it gave a sense of death.


    Mr. Corpse''s face changed dramatically as he rushed towards the purple coffin.


    "Boom!"


    Mr. Corpse was repelled by the ck mist, unable to touch the coffin again. The ck mist blocked his way.


    "Wang Ku, it''s corpse energy blocking me. You''re the most resistant to it. Quickly, nail the coffin shut!" Mr. Corpse shouted, throwing ten coffin nails to Wang Ku.


    Wang Ku caught the nails and rushed towards the coffin without hesitation. The holes for the nails were still there, so he only needed to hammer them back in.


    The ck mist quickly wrapped around Wang Ku, but he withstood it better than Mr. Corpse. Despite the resistance, he managed to ce the coffin nails in the holes.


    "Boom!" The bronze throne shrank and hammered the nails into the coffin.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"...


    After ten strikes, the coffin was finally nailed shut.


    Mr. Corpse let out a long sigh of relief.


    "So the Zhuxian Sword was not only guarding the coffin but also obscuring the ck mist?" Yi Yan frowned in realization.


    "Mr. Corpse, what happened just now? What was that ck mist?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "The ck mist is corpse energy, a remnant of the sage''s immense power and essence. Over time, it has umted and begun to transform the sage''s corpse. If left unchecked, it could have led to a corpse transformation, turning the sage''s body into a powerful undead creature. That''s why it was crucial to seal the coffin quickly. The Zhuxian Sword was both a guardian and a distraction, hiding the true danger within," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "The sage''s corpse transforming... That would have been catastrophic," Zhong Shan mused.


    "Indeed. Even in death, a sage''s power is formidable. If the transformation hadpleted, it would have unleashed a disaster," Mr. Corpse agreed.


    "We were fortunate to act in time. Thank you, Mr. Corpse, and everyone else who helped," Zhong Shan said, nodding appreciatively to the group.


    Everyone looked at Mr. Corpse.


    "What appeared was corpse energy, but there''s also something we can''t see. The Emperor mentioned a kind of residual energy, which I believe is ''habit energy''," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Habit energy?"


    "Yes, I''m not entirely sure what it is, but it''s said that only Sages understand how to use it. That was a close call," Mr. Corpse said, still shaken.


    "A close call?"


    "Yes, nailing the coffin not only secures it but also suppresses the corpse inside to prevent it from transforming," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Corpse transformation?" Tian Ling''er''s eyes showed a hint of fear.


    "Yes, even an ordinary corpse transforming would be disastrous for mortals, let alone a Sage''s corpse. If a Sage''s corpse transforms, the consequences would be unimaginable. At the very least, Lingxiao Heavenly Court would be destroyed instantly," Mr. Corpse said, wiping the cold sweat from his forehead.


    Corpse transformation? And the character ''?''?


    "What does this ''?'' mean?" Zhong Shan asked Mr. Corpse.


    "I don''t know. It might be rted to the corpse inside," Mr. Corpse shook his head.


    Everyone was puzzled but deeply concerned.


    "What should we do with this coffin?" Yi Yan frowned.


    "A Sage''s corpse?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Your Majesty, if word gets out, this coffin will cause a sensation far greater than any other treasure. Countless powerful beings from the Great Thousand World will flock here. A Sage''s corpse is a hot potato," Wang Ku said worriedly.


    "Why don''t we hide it and feed it to Little Cutieter?" Tian Ling''er suddenly suggested.


    Little Cutie? Everyone looked strangely at the ck hole in the sky. Was the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail called Little Cutie?


    Zhong Shan shook his head. A Sage''s corpse couldn''t be eaten, even after thousands of years. Opening the coffin alone would cause the heavens to mourn. Desecrating the corpse would bring divine retribution. Moreover, consuming it would cause the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail to explode from the sheer energy.


    More importantly, it couldn''t be hidden. The coffin''s whereabouts would soon be known to Kong Xuan, the people of the Longevity World, and eventually everyone in the Great Thousand World.


    After some thought, Zhong Shan called out, "Liu Wushuang, bring the captured toad over!"


    "Yes!" came the voice of Liu Wushuang,mander of the Jinyi Guards, from outside the square.


    Soon, the unconscious toad was brought over.


    "Wake him up!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Boom!"


    Arge amount of water sshed onto the toad, startling him awake.


    As soon as he woke up, the toad saw Zhong Shan, Di Xuanhua, and Wang Ku.


    Surrounded by a group of Great Zhen people, the toad shivered.


    During his previous unconsciousness, the toad realized he had fallen into the hands of ''viins''. Shen Ya Daojun and Kong Lietian were gone. Was he going to die here?


    "I surrender! I defect to the righteous side, I...!" the toad stammered, pleading incoherently.


    Everyone looked at the toad with disdain.


    "I don''t need your surrender!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "I really want to surrender, Your Majesty. Please believe me. I no longer wish to associate with those viins. Please give me a chance to live honorably. I sincerely defect...!" the toad pleaded tearfully.


    Desperate to survive, the toad abandoned all dignity. His words made everyone''s skin crawl and filled their eyes with disgust. Not only was the toad a coward, but he was also despicable.


    "Shut up!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    The toad shivered.


    "Do you see this coffin?" Zhong Shan pointed to the coffin.


    Was it prepared for me? The toad''s face turned pale, and he started pleading tearfully again, "I truly defected...!"


    "Silence!"


    Everyone looked at the toad with disgust.


    "Return to the Longevity World and deliver a message to Shen Ya Daojun. If he wants this coffin, he must trade all the Immortal Steles he possesses for it," Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "Huh? You''re letting me go?" The toad was stunned. He couldn''t believe Zhong Shan had captured him just to deliver a message.


    A coffin? Was Zhong Shan trying to humiliate Shen Ya Daojun?


    "Did you hear me?" Zhong Shan asked coldly.


    "I heard, I heard!"


    "Then go!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "You''re really letting me go?"


    "Go!"

 Chapter 796: The Human Sovereign

    <h4>Chapter 796: The Human Sovereign</h4>


    In Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan had released the toad.


    The toad, upon escaping, felt as if he were dreaming. He had been released just like that? With a dreamlike feeling, the toad flew away frantically, not daring to look back.


    With the toad gone, the discussion in Lingxiao Heavenly Court continued.


    "Father, why did you only ask for the Immortal Steles in exchange? Why not demand the Trapping Immortal Sword as well?" Zhong Tian asked, puzzled.


    Indeed, the purple coffin appeared extremely valuable. Why didn''t the Emperor try to obtain more?


    "The Immortal Steles are the baseline. Asking for the Trapping Immortal Sword as well would be too greedy," Yi Yan exined.


    "Oh?"


    "We''re negotiating with Shen Ya Daojun, not Kong Xuan," Yi Yan said seriously.


    "What do you mean?"


    "Kong Xuan hasn''t returned to the Longevity World yet. If we ask for too much, Shen Ya Daojun might refuse to negotiate and wait for Kong Xuan to return and forcibly take back the coffin," Yi Yan exined.


    "Understood," the group nodded in agreement.


    "But how did you know Kong Xuan isn''t in the Longevity World?" Tian Ling''er asked, puzzled.


    Yi Yan smiled slightly. "Because he is currently at the Yellow Springs Sea."


    "The Yellow Springs Sea?"


    "Yes, after being severely injured in the battle at Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Kong Xuan headed straight to the Yellow Springs Sea. Perhaps the sea can help him heal," Yi Yan said, frowning.


    "He actually went to the underworld? To the Yellow Springs Sea below the Yellow Springs Road?" Gu Qianyou frowned.


    "No matter. He doesn''t have the time or interest to deal with the underworld right now," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Indeed."


    As the group discussed, Mr. Corpse moved to the purple coffin. Although the coffin was now nailed shut, Mr. Corpse continued to examine it closely, scrutinizing every detail.


    As he looked, Mr. Corpse''s expression grew increasingly grave. His concern became more apparent.


    The group, noticing his intense focus, turned their attention to Mr. Corpse.


    "Mr. Corpse, did you discover something?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Mr. Corpse took a deep breath and looked at Zhong Shan. "Your Majesty, there is a problem."


    "Oh?"


    "Please look here," Mr. Corpse said.


    Everyone gathered around, looking at the spot Mr. Corpse indicated on the coffin. There was a tiny ck dot.


    "What is this? We examined the coffin when we brought it back and it didn''t have this ck dot," the y Bodhisattva frowned.


    "Yes, there was no ck dot then. Now there is," Mr. Corpse said, taking a deep breath.


    "What does this ck dot mean?"


    "This is a corpse spot, an external corpse spot. There are eighty more on the coffin, making eighty-one corpse spots in total," Mr. Corpse said gravely.


    "Oh? What does that signify?"


    "Corpse transformation. The process of corpse transformation has be irreversible. The coffin nails can suppress the corpse and the coffin, but the appearance of these eighty-one corpse spots means that the transformation is unavoidable. Through these spots, the corpse inside can absorb ''habit energy'', just more slowly than before. Given enough time, the transformation is inevitable. Once it happens, it will cause a cataclysm," Mr. Corpse said, with a hint of fear.


    Mr. Corpse''s somber words made Tian Ling''er cling to Zhong Shan in fear.


    "But for now, it''s not a problem. I believe the corpse won''t transform for at least three hundred years. After that, it''s uncertain," Mr. Corpse said solemnly.


    "Three hundred years?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrows raised.


    "Your Majesty, the timeline is tight!" Yi Yan frowned.


    "No matter how tight, within three hundred years, we must unify the world, destroy the Longevity World, and annihte the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty!" Zhong Shan dered firmly.


    "Yes!" everyone responded immediately.


    "The Northern Great Qin has already departed. We shallmence our northern campaign. Yi Yan, I appoint you as the Grand Marshal of the Northern Expedition. Swiftly conquer the northern territories!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Yi Yan replied.


    In the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, in Kong Lietian''s study.


    Kong Lietian had returned, standing before Wang Chen.


    "Has Sekong not returned yet?" Kong Lietian frowned.


    "Not yet!" Wang Chen shook his head.


    "Then we''ll wait for him. The Confucian Academy has not been effective under his control. Hmph!" Kong Lietian snorted coldly.


    "I believe Sekong has been trying his best. Although he rarely visits the academies, I''m sure he often studies theiryout at home," Wang Chen said.


    Wang Chen seemed to be speaking in Sekong''s defense, but it only irritated Kong Lietian. Rarely visiting the academies?


    "Enough, I''ll deal with himter. Now, let''s discuss your matter!" Kong Lietian said sternly.


    "Mine?"


    "I heard that you erected a tombstone for Zhong Shan at your home a few days ago?" Kong Lietian said coldly.


    Wang Chen''s eyebrows twitched before he responded, "Forgive me, Your Majesty. Zhong Shan was once my foster father. Even though our rtionship ended, I still wanted to honor him with a tombstone."


    "Zhong Shan isn''t dead!" Kong Lietian said irritably.


    "Not dead?" Wang Chen''s expression changed.


    "That''s right. I don''t me you for erecting the tombstone. You thought he was dead, and it shows your loyalty to me. Rest assured, regardless of what happens in this realm, the Kong family will remain a revered saintly family in the Great Thousand World," Kong Lietian said sternly.


    "Yes!" Wang Chen bowed, a subtle smile appearing on his lips.


    "Ying has left. Now, I appoint you as the Grand Marshal of the Three Armies. Lead our forces eastward to seize Great Qin''snds!" Kong Lietianmanded.


    "I ept!" Wang Chen responded promptly.


    "However, there''s one more task for you before that," Kong Lietian said.


    "Please, Your Majesty,mand me."


    "The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty originally had two feng shui masters: Shenxiu and the Human Sovereign. Shenxiu is dead, which is unfortunate but not crucial. The key is the Human Sovereign. He has no connection to the Longevity World and has a very mysterious background, yet his power is immense!" Kong Lietian exined.


    "Immense power?" Wang Chen frowned.


    "Yes, the Human Sovereign is usually very low-key. However, the previous Emperor, Lu Guaitian, once said he was no match for the Human Sovereign. Even the former Supreme of the Crow n, Wuhuan, was his disciple," Kong Lietian said.


    "The Human Sovereign is that powerful? Isn''t he just a feng shui master? Why has he been hiding his strength?" Wang Chen asked, astonished.


    "It is indeed puzzling why he has kept his true power concealed. Perhaps he has his reasons or a greater purpose. Regardless, his presence and influence cannot be underestimated," Kong Lietian replied.


    Wang Chen nodded thoughtfully. The revtion of the Human Sovereign''s hidden capabilities added a newyer ofplexity to his uing mission.


    "I don''t know. Before I arrived in this realm, he was already serving in the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty. Apart from the former emperor, Lu Guitian, and Wuhuan, no one trusted him. Even Shen Ya Daojun and others from the Longevity World didn''t trust him. Otherwise, they would have included him in their attempts to assassinate Zhong Shan," Kong Lietian said, frowning.


    "Every action has a cause and effect. The Human Sovereign is definitely plotting something in the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty," Wang Chen said confidently.


    "I think so too. But what could he be plotting in the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty? Is there something we don''t know?" Kong Lietian shook his head in frustration.


    "Does Your Majesty want me to probe the Human Sovereign?" Wang Chen asked perceptively.


    "Exactly. I want you to test the Human Sovereign. You are the most trustworthy among my ministers. This task can only be entrusted to you. I want this world, and I want to use the Longevity World to achieve it. Even if we can''t uncover his true motives, the Human Sovereign must be my pawn to help conquer the world!" Kong Lietian said firmly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. I will not disappoint you!" Wang Chen responded immediately.


    In the underworld, at the center of the Hell of Ten Thousand Fathoms, the Yellow Springs Road reached from the underworld to the mortal world.


    A massive yellow road led to the mortal world, attracting countless ghosts to rush forward. In a small valley near the Yellow Springs Road, an old man, bloodied and battered,y hidden.


    This was Tian Chenzi, the Grand Elder of the Tian family of the underworld. After taking a powerful blow from Ying, he fled frantically. Ying kept his promise and did not pursue him further after the initial strike.


    Tian Chenzi escaped to the entrance of the Yellow Springs Road and set up a grand formation to cautiously heal his wounds.


    But Tian Chenzi soon realized in horror that Ying hadn''t failed to kill him with one strike out of inability but out of deliberate choice. His wounds were strange, not healing despite consuming numerous elixirs. The damage worsened daily.


    His skin gradually melted, and muffled explosions periodically erupted within his muscles, causing immense pain.


    Any other person would have long ago chosen to end their suffering, but Tian Chenzi endured. For eighty thousand years, he had endured all kinds of torment. How could he not endure this pain?


    His deteriorating condition filled Tian Chenzi with hatred. Why was this happening? Why was the Great Qin so powerful?


    While healing in the valley, Tian Chenzi often used his divine sense to observe the surroundings. He noticed some people loitering near the Yellow Springs Road, easily recognizable by their attire as Jinyi Guards from the Great Zhen Dynasty.


    The Great Zhen Dynasty! It was all their fault. Zhong Shan''s fault. If not for Zhong Shan, he wouldn''t be in this predicament.


    However, Tian Chenzi didn''t act rashly. He needed to heal first. Perhaps in a few years, his wounds would stop worsening.


    Until a few days ago, Tian Chenzi suddenly noticed the faces of those Jinyi Guards change drastically before they turned and left.


    "Boom!"


    A loud explosion reverberated from the surrounding earth of the Yellow Springs Sea.


    Tian Chenzi looked towards the Yellow Springs Sea with shock.


    The sky was filled with ghosts.


    Ghosts swimming in the Yellow Springs Sea were violently expelled by a massive force, all sent flying out. The ghostly columns climbing the Yellow Springs Road also copsed, the ghosts either dissipating or being ejected from the Yellow Springs Sea.


    A massive barrier seemed to form around the Yellow Springs Sea, preventing any ghost from entering.


    "Chirp!"


    A gigantic bird cry echoed. Tian Chenzi cautiously emerged from his hiding ce.


    The Yellow Springs Sea was in turmoil, as if a colossal creature was stirring beneath the surface.


    What made Tian Chenzi''s scalp tingle was that the entire Yellow Springs Sea was sinking. The water level was dropping, as if some terrifying entity was absorbing the sea''s water. Someone dared to absorb this water?

 Chapter 797: Welcoming Shen Ya Daojun Outside Nantian Gate

    <h4>Chapter 797: Weing Shen Ya Daojun Outside Nantian Gate</h4>


    In the Longevity World!


    Shen Ya Daojun returned with a slightly sullen face. Although he was furious that Kong Lietian had failed to kill Zhong Shan, from another perspective, it was clear that Zhong Shan was incredibly difficult to deal with.


    Di Xuanhua had also reached the twelfth level of the Tianji realm! During their battle, even though Shen Ya Daojun hadn''t used his full strength, he could feel that Di Xuanhua still had reserves. Di Xuanhua was indeed formidable.


    Zhong Shan hadn''t died, and yet another n had failed. Shen Ya Daojun was in a foul mood. However, the ancestor had mentioned that Zhong Shan had two bodies, and one of them must have perished.


    Two bodies? Isn''t that a divine power only understood by those above the Great Immortal level? This Zhong Shan was terrifying!


    "Realm Master!"


    "Greetings, Realm Master!"


    "Greetings, Realm Master!"


    "Realm Master!"


    As Shen Ya Daojun entered the Longevity World, he was greeted by numerous people. Here, he was the master of the realm, the supreme authority.


    Shen Ya Daojun had barely stepped into the Longevity World when his eyebrows furrowed, and he looked up at the sky.


    "Merit? Ye Qingcheng used the Longevity World''s merit? What happened?" Shen Ya Daojun''s face changed.


    With a sweep of his divine sense, he quickly located Ye Qingcheng and flew towards the valley where Ye Qingcheng resided.


    In the valley, Ye Qingcheng was once again seated on the water surface of a pond, with the Trapping Immortal Sword ced on his knees, continuing toprehend the way of the sword.


    "Boom!"


    Shen Ya Daojun''s sudden arrival caused a powerful gust of wind that exploded the water in the pond.


    Ye Qingcheng opened his eyes, and two beams of sword light shot out from his eyes.


    "Realm Master?" Ye Qingcheng was slightly surprised but quickly stood up.


    Shen Ya Daojun stared at the Trapping Immortal Sword in Ye Qingcheng''s grasp. The sword was still there. Clearly, Shen Ya Daojun was worried that Ye Qingcheng might lose the sword again.


    Perhaps noticing the meaning in Shen Ya Daojun''s gaze, Ye Qingcheng''s eyes shed with pride, and he tightly gripped the Trapping Immortal Sword, as if to prove that the sword had not been lost.


    "You used the Longevity World''s merit?" Shen Ya Daojun asked sternly.


    "Yes, a few days ago, there was a small incident. The Trapping Immortal Sword almost got lost again. I used some merit to keep it," Ye Qingcheng said proudly.


    "Hmm? Did something happen in the Longevity World? Was there an invasion?"


    "No, everything has been peaceful while you were away. It was just that the Trapping Immortal Sword had a small incident," Ye Qingcheng exined.


    "Oh? When exactly?" Shen Ya Daojun''s eyes narrowed.


    "It was on the third day after Ying sent the invitation for the duel," Ye Qingcheng recalled.


    "What? The third day after Ying left?" Shen Ya Daojun''s pupils contracted.


    "Yes, why?" Ye Qingcheng looked puzzled.


    At the same time as the Zhuxian Sword? Who? Who was summoning both the Zhuxian Sword and the Trapping Immortal Sword? Shen Ya Daojun fell into deep thought.


    "Has the ancestor returned?" Shen Ya Daojun sensed something amiss.


    "No, the ancestor hasn''t returned. Could it have been the ancestor summoning the Trapping Immortal Sword? But why would the ancestor need it?" Ye Qingcheng was puzzled.


    "No, something is wrong!" Shen Ya Daojun squinted his eyes.


    "Realm Master, do you think the ancestor might be in trouble?" Ye Qingcheng spected with a hint of peculiarity in his eyes.


    "Impossible. In this realm, no one is a match for the ancestor. Not even Ying. The ancestor wouldn''t need to borrow the Trapping Immortal Sword," Shen Ya Daojun shook his head.


    "Who else could summon the Trapping Immortal Sword? And such power... it would require at least thousands of years of refining the sword to summon it from afar. Even I had to use the merit of the Longevity World to stabilize it," Ye Qingcheng said, puzzled.


    "Could it be?" Shen Ya Daojun''s face changed.


    "Could it be what?" Ye Qingcheng asked.


    Shen Ya Daojun gave Ye Qingcheng a long, prating look, seemingly having guessed something, hoping it was not as he feared.


    "Come with me to the ancestor''s residence!" Shen Ya Daojun said.


    "The ancestor''s residence? Isn''t that a forbidden area? No one is allowed to enter," Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "I have been there before. Trust me,e with me. If it''s not for the reason I suspect, all the better. If it is, you will be held responsible!" Shen Ya Daojun said coldly.


    The chilling look in Shen Ya Daojun''s eyes sent a shiver down Ye Qingcheng''s spine.


    Ye Qingcheng didn''t dare to say more and followed Shen Ya Daojun, flying overyers of mountains until they reached a pceplex.


    They stopped at the central hall and stepped inside.


    Inside the grand hall, there was a circr altar in the center, covered in runes. The runes flickered with an eerie light.


    Ye Qingcheng was astonished by the strange runes, while Shen Ya Daojun''s face changed drastically.


    "Something''s wrong! It''s gone!" Shen Ya Daojun eximed in horror.


    "Gone? What''s gone?" Ye Qingcheng turned to look at Shen Ya Daojun.


    But what he saw was a look of boundless malice in Shen Ya Daojun''s eyes, filled with a killing intent that was overwhelming.


    "Realm... Realm Master, what''s missing?" Ye Qingcheng asked fearfully.


    Ten dayster, in a hall within the Longevity World.


    "I have already sent many Longevity World disciples to investigate. Your negligence will be judged by the ancestor upon his return!" Shen Ya Daojun said furiously.


    "Realm Master, I...!" Ye Qingcheng felt deeply wronged.


    When the y Bodhisattva and others arrived, they used heavenly mechanisms that even Kong Xuan couldn''t foresee, let alone Ye Qingcheng. Kong Xuan hadn''t set any formations around the coffin, leading to today''s tragedy.


    Lose the Trapping Immortal Sword? Shen Ya Daojun would rather lose the sword.


    "Realm Master, who is in the coffin?" Ye Qingcheng gathered his courage to ask.


    "Shut up! That''s not for you to know!" Shen Ya Daojun''s face turned icy, not wanting to talk to Ye Qingcheng any further.


    "Reporting to the Realm Master, True Lord Ham has returned!" a Longevity World disciple reported.


    "Ham? He actually came back? Let him in!" Shen Ya Daojun said with a hint of confusion.


    Soon, Ham was brought in.


    "Realm Master, I went through many hardships to finally escape from that demon Zhong Shan!" Ham said.


    Shen Ya Daojun looked at him with disdain. How could a weakling like him escape?


    "Zhong Shan didn''t do anything to you?" Shen Ya Daojun asked coldly.


    "He wanted to, but he couldn''t!" Ham boasted.


    Seeing Shen Ya Daojun''s increasingly dark expression, Ham realized he might have exaggerated.


    "Uh, I was captured by Zhong Shan and taken to Lingxiao Heavenly Court. He wanted me to bring a humiliating message to you, Realm Master, but of course, I didn''t say anything," Ham corrected himself.


    "Humiliate me? Zhong Shan wouldn''t waste his time on such trivialities!" Shen Ya Daojun said, clearly not believing him.


    "Humiliate? Zhong Shan would do something so petty? How could Shen Ya Daojun believe that?" Shen Ya Daojun didn''t seem convinced.


    Seeing Shen Ya Daojun''s disbelief, Ham became anxious and quickly added, "Of course he wanted to humiliate you, Realm Master, and he used a coffin to do it. As soon as I saw it, I knew he was dreaming, thinking he could..."


    "Wait, a coffin?" Shen Ya Daojun''s eyes lit up.


    Suddenly, Shen Ya Daojun seemed to realize something. Indeed, it had to be Zhong Shan.


    Seeing Shen Ya Daojun''s eagerness, Ham was confused. Zhong Shan was trying to humiliate him, yet he seemed excited? How odd.


    "Yes, a giant purple coffin!" Ham said, watching Shen Ya Daojun''s reaction.


    Seeing the joy on Shen Ya Daojun''s face as he listened, Ham was even more bewildered. Was Shen Ya Daojun actually pleased about being humiliated? Did he have different tastes?


    "What exactly did he say? Tell me everything, word for word, without missing anything!" Shen Ya Daojun said seriously.


    Ye Qingcheng, standing nearby, also sensed something and watched Ham intently.


    Ham, still confused, found it strange. How could someone be like this?


    "Alright, Zhong Shan said..." Ham recounted the entire incident at Lingxiao Heavenly Court in detail.


    "Zhong Shan said that the purple coffin could be exchanged for the Immortal Steles?" Shen Ya Daojun asked seriously.


    "Yes, that''s what Zhong Shan said. But it''s an insult to you, Realm Master! How could you..." Ham started.


    "Silence!" Shen Ya Daojun snapped.


    Ham shut his mouth but remained puzzled.


    "Realm Master, is Zhong Shan ying a trick?" Ye Qingcheng asked, frowning.


    "We cannot be too careful. However, if we can truly exchange for the purple coffin, your responsibility will be greatly reduced," Shen Ya Daojun sighed.


    There were still eleven Immortal Steles in Shen Ya Daojun''s possession. No one could take them, but the situation was urgent. If the ancestor returned and found the purple coffin missing, both Ye Qingcheng and Shen Ya Daojun would be held ountable.


    That thing could not fall into Zhong Shan''s hands. Shen Ya Daojun knew the importance of the purple coffin.


    "Ye Qingcheng,e with me to Lingxiao Heavenly Court!" Shen Ya Daojun ordered.


    "Yes!" Ye Qingcheng responded immediately.


    Five dayster, outside Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    By now, Lingxiao Heavenly Court had moved ind, hovering over a terrestrial city. Countless citizens below watched curiously as Lingxiao Heavenly Court moved.


    Suddenly, Lingxiao Heavenly Court stopped, causing many to look on in confusion.


    Outside Nantian Gate, two figures hovered in the sky.


    One was Shen Ya Daojun with arge gourd on his back, and the other was Ye Qingcheng, carrying the Trapping Immortal Sword.


    The purple coffin was more important than the Longevity World, so both hade.


    At Nantian Gate, Zhong Shan, apanied by Di Xuanhua and several ministers, stood facing Shen Ya Daojun from a distance.


    "Good to see you again, Shen Ya Daojun!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Zhong Shan was in a great mood. After swallowing the Zhuxian Sword, his cultivation had surged to the eighth level of the Tianji realm, advancing two levels at once.


    Moreover, he was now at the peak of the eighth level!


    Naturally, Zhong Shan was pleased. As he conversed with Shen Ya Daojun, his gaze asionally drifted to the Trapping Immortal Sword on Ye Qingcheng''s back.


    Having taken the Zhuxian, Juexian, and Luxian swords, Ye Qingcheng felt a chill whenever he saw Zhong Shan. He quickly grasped the Trapping Immortal Sword, fearing it might be taken away again.


    "We have nothing to discuss. Where is what I want?" Shen Ya Daojun said coldly.


    "Show me the Immortal Steles, and I''ll show you the purple coffin," Zhong Shan replied calmly.


    The fierce impression Shen Ya Daojun had once given him was now gone. Now, it seemed that Zhong Shan was the one pressuring Shen Ya Daojun.

 Chapter 798: The Bell of Chaos Rings

    <h4>Chapter 798: The Bell of Chaos Rings</h4>


    Shen Ya Daojun waved his sleeve, and eleven gigantic Immortal Steles floated beside him.


    "Immortal Steles!" Shen Ya Daojun said solemnly.


    Zhong Shan, without making things difficult, lightly waved his hand, and someone behind him brought out the purple coffin.


    Seeing the coffin, Shen Ya Daojun''s pupils contracted. Yes, it was indeed this coffin.


    In the city below, countless citizens and numerous experts watched the scene at Nantian Gate. People didn''t understand what was happening, but they recognized Shen Ya Daojun and Ye Qingcheng. Was the Emperor going to trade something with him?


    Was it true? Or was the Emperor nning to ambush Shen Ya Daojun?


    People awaited the spectacle.


    "How will we exchange?" Shen Ya Daojun asked cautiously.


    Shen Ya Daojun was wary that Zhong Shan might take the Immortal Steles and not hand over the purple coffin.


    Zhong Shan, however, smiled. The once haughty Shen Ya Daojun, who used to regard killing him as trivial, now showed caution due to Zhong Shan''s influence. The Shen Ya Daojun of the past, with his arrogance, would have thrown the eleven Immortal Steles over confidently, believing that if Zhong Shan didn''t hand over the coffin, he would simply annihte him and his entire family.


    But repeated failures had dulled Shen Ya Daojun''s confidence and sharpened his caution.


    "Ha ha ha ha!" Zhong Shanughed heartily.


    Hisughter made Shen Ya Daojun raise an eyebrow, not understanding what was so amusing.


    With a gesture, Zhong Shan tossed the purple coffin over nonchntly, disying a carefree attitude.


    Zhong Shan wasn''t afraid of Shen Ya Daojun reneging because the purple coffin couldn''t be stored in any storage device and had to be carried back physically.


    If Shen Ya Daojun didn''t give up the Immortal Steles, Zhong Shan, Di Xuanhua, and the others would gang up on him. Damaging the purple coffin would be a grave sin for Shen Ya Daojun.


    Realizing Zhong Shan''s confidence, Shen Ya Daojun understood the situation.


    With a wave, he sent the eleven Immortal Steles towards Zhong Shan.


    "p!"


    "Whoosh!"


    The exchange wasplete. Zhong Shan was in high spirits, while Shen Ya Daojun was suppressing a burning frustration.


    Shen Ya Daojun checked the purple coffin��everything was in order. Zhong Shan, too, inspected the Immortal Steles and found them all authentic.


    "Very well, farewell to the Realm Master of Longevity! Ha ha ha ha!" Zhong Shan waved his sleeve, exuding confidence as he turned back towards Nantian Gate.


    "Farewell to the Realm Master of Longevity!" the ministers shouted in unison.


    The shout rang in Shen Ya Daojun''s ears, feeling extremely grating.


    "Lingxiao Heavenly Court, onward!" Lu Jianping''s voice echoed.


    The massive floating pce resumed its northward advance.


    The citizens below had puzzled expressions. Why did the Emperor let go of such a good opportunity to ambush Shen Ya Daojun? Even Ye Qingcheng seemed bewildered.


    In the Longevity World, Shen Ya Daojun returned with the purple coffin. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan was in high spirits with the newly acquired Immortal Steles.


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan addressed his ministers.


    "With the Immortal Steles in hand, we now hold an even greater advantage. This trade was a significant victory for us," Zhong Shan dered.


    The ministers nodded in agreement, recognizing the strategic value of the Immortal Steles.


    "Prepare for our next move. We must continue to consolidate our power and push forward with our ns," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" the ministers responded.


    As Lingxiao Heavenly Court moved, the preparations for the next phase of their grand strategy were underway.


    "Realm Master, why did it end so easily? Zhong Shan didn''t even try to make things difficult?" Ye Qingcheng didn''t understand.


    "Isn''t it humiliating enough already? Let''s go!" Shen Ya Daojun felt very ufortable.


    "Yes!"


    Inside Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Your Majesty, why didn''t we ambush them just now? We already have the capability," Liu Wushuang asked, puzzled.


    "Shen Ya Daojun is no longer a concern. Killing him? That''s impossible. If they wanted to escape, no one could stop them. Instead of fighting a useless battle, it''s better to let them go back. The purple coffin can no longer stay in Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Kong Xuan will soon recover. Bringing back the purple coffin means bringing back hidden dangers. Xuanyu said Kong Xuan wouldn''t leave the Longevity World for a century, and I trust Xuanyu''s words!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Yes, Your Majesty is wise!" Liu Wushuang immediately responded.


    "Moreover, Your Majesty, making such a high-profile exchange in front of the world has another purpose," Yi Yan said with a smile.


    "Oh?"


    "The event of the heavens mourning and rain falling will soon spread throughout the world. The coffin exchange we just conducted also announced to everyone that the item is now in Shen Ya Daojun''s hands. This is the time for any hidden adversaries to reveal themselves," Yi Yan exined.


    "Hidden adversaries?" Liu Wushuang was confused.


    "You''ll understand in the future," Yi Yan smiled.


    Shen Ya Daojun and Ye Qingcheng, carrying the purple coffin, flew towards the Longevity World.


    Two supreme powerhouses transporting a coffin��who would dare to intercept them? Who would have the ability to do so? Zhong Shan wouldn''t interfere, so who else in the Divine Continent could?


    In silence, they flew until they were near the Longevity World.


    "Stop!" Shen Ya Daojun''s eyebrows furrowed.


    "Realm Master?" Ye Qingcheng, holding the purple coffin, looked puzzled.


    They were in a barren area, surrounded by bare stone mountains.


    "Who dares to rob me? Are you tired of living?" Shen Ya Daojun''s eyes turned cold.


    Shen Ya Daojun was already fuming, and now, close to the Longevity World, someone was trying to rob them? Rob me?


    "Realm Master, is there anyone here?" Ye Qingcheng was surprised.


    Ye Qingcheng couldn''t sense anything unusual around them.


    Shen Ya Daojun didn''t respond to Ye Qingcheng. Instead, he struck the air with a massive golden palm.


    "Boom!"


    A loud explosion shattered the void, and a burst of golden energy spewed out.


    It was as if a golden sphere had been shattered by Shen Ya Daojun''s strike, exploding violently.


    "Ye Qingcheng, step back!" Shen Ya Daojun ordered sternly.


    "Yes!" Ye Qingcheng immediatelyplied.


    Shen Ya Daojun wasn''t worried about Ye Qingcheng''s safety but rather the purple coffin. He could sense the strength of their adversary.


    "What a powerful Shen Ya. You''ve actually reached the twelfth level of the Tianji realm!"


    The voice was raspy and eerie, echoing mysteriously through the air.


    Shen Ya Daojun''s pupils contracted, and he tapped the shing Immortal Gourd.


    "Please turn around, treasure!"


    With a shout from Shen Ya Daojun, a seven-colored light shot out from the mouth of the shing Immortal Gourd, speeding towards the ck hole. The speed was incredible, tearing the void into a path of ckness.


    The shing Immortal Flying Knife, unsealed, was a force even Di Xuanhua wouldn''t dare to touch. Who could withstand it?


    "Boom!"


    The enormous ck hole expanded a hundredfold, space erupting as a fierce collision urred within. The shing Immortal Flying Knife touched and returned instantly.


    Amidst the explosion, a man wearing a golden mask shot out from the ck hole.


    Above the man''s head, a dark yellow bell trembled. The recent strike seemed to have collided with this bell.


    "Shen Ya Daojun? The shing Immortal Flying Knife... We shall meet again!" The man, with the bell above his head, fled into the distance.


    "Please turn around, treasure!" Shen Ya Daojun shouted again.


    The shing Immortal Flying Knife shot out once more, reaching the bell in an instant.


    The bell expanded to a hundred zhang in size.


    "Boom!"


    A loud ring echoed as the shing Immortal Flying Knife struck the enormous bell. The surrounding space turned into a ck hole once more.


    The shing Immortal Flying Knife returned, while the man fled, now in a more disheveled state.


    This time, Shen Ya Daojun didn''t pursue, squinting his eyes instead.


    Clearly, the man was no match for Shen Ya Daojun. However, Shen Ya Daojun refrained from chasing, fearing it might be a diversion to steal the purple coffin.


    "The Chaos Bell, one of the ancient top eighteen treasures, the Chaos Bell?" Shen Ya Daojun squinted.


    "The Chaos Bell. We never knew who possessed it, but now it has surfaced? Realm Master, we should..." Ye Qingcheng frowned.


    "Return to the Longevity World!" Shen Ya Daojunmanded decisively.


    "Yes!" Ye Qingcheng responded immediately.


    Two dayster, a figure cautiously emerged near the battlefield where the Chaos Bell and shing Immortal Flying Knife had shed.


    This figure had remained hidden, fearing Shen Ya Daojun''s return. It was Wang Chen of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty.


    Wang Chen nced towards the Longevity World and then in the direction the man with the Chaos Bell had fled, his eyes narrowing.


    "The Chaos Bell? Human Sovereign?" Wang Chen frowned.


    "Could it be for that purple coffin?" Wang Chen pondered.


    After thinking for a while, Wang Chen dared not linger. With a leap, he headed towards the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty.


    In the underworld, at the Yellow Springs Sea.


    Tian Chenzi had been watching for over half a month. The Yellow Springs Sea continued to recede, bing shallower. Tian Chenzi gradually saw the creature within��a colossal peacock, thousands of miles in size, absorbing the Yellow Springs Sea. It was devouring the sea''s power.


    What kind of monster was this? Where did ite from? Was it from the mortal world? How had such a massive creature been hidden in the mortal world?


    As a month approached, the Yellow Springs Sea finally reached its bottom. The enormous peacock had nearly devoured the entire sea.


    "Boom!"


    Without the Yellow Springs Sea, the Hell of Ten Thousand Fathoms began to quake.


    "Chirp!"


    The giant peacock let out a deafening cry, sucking thest drops of the Yellow Springs Sea into its mouth. Unsatisfied, it turned its attention to the towering Yellow Springs Road.


    With a roar, the peacock''s mouth emitted a powerful suction force.


    "Chirp!"


    The Yellow Springs Road trembled, as if the peacock was attempting to devour it as well.


    The Yellow Springs Road shook, causing the earth to crack and mountains to sway. Tian Chenzi hid in the distance, not daring to move an inch.

 Chapter 799: Devouring the Yellow Springs Road

    <h4>Chapter 799: Devouring the Yellow Springs Road</h4>


    Tian Chenzi''s eyes widened in disbelief. How could such a creature exist in this small thousand world?


    A peacock, a thousand miles in size? He had only seen such vastness in the Kunpeng, but that was due to its unique physiology. It was born that way. But this peacock? A thousand miles?


    Who was he?


    The immense peacock was an overwhelming sight for Tian Chenzi. The vast Yellow Springs Sea had been swallowed up by the peacock? How could something like this be possible?


    With the Yellow Springs Sea dried up, the Hell of Ten Thousand Fathoms trembled violently. But the most terrifying aspect for Tian Chenzi was that the gigantic peacock was not yet satisfied.


    With a deafening cry, the peacock began to forcefully devour the Yellow Springs Road.


    The entire enormous Yellow Springs Road quaked. The Yellow Springs Road, connecting the underworld and the mortal world, shook violently.


    The surrounding space trembled fiercely, ck holes forming around the Yellow Springs Road, created by its shaking.


    "Boom!"


    The Hell of Ten Thousand Fathoms fell into a massive ck hole. The ground cracked and mountains swayed. The entire underworld shook.


    Throughout the underworld.


    In the north, the Great Zhen army halted. The ground shook, and fierce winds blew, making it impossible for the army to march or engage in battle.


    "What''s happening?" Zhao Suoxiang eximed.


    "The ground shakes? Something major is happening in the underworld. Quick, send a message to Changjing!" Water Mirror''s face turned pale.


    Water Mirror didn''t need to send the message. The shadow body in Changjing already knew. The tremors had reached Changjing, though weaker. Zhong Shan could still sense their intensity.


    The shaking felt like the ancient divine powers creating heaven and earth. Who could cause such destruction?


    Kong Xuan!


    Zhong Shan immediately thought of Kong Xuan. What was Kong Xuan doing?


    Only Tian Chenzi knew what Kong Xuan was doing. Tian Chenzi''s scalp tingled with fear.


    Tian Chenzi dared not watch any longer. In the moment when the space shattered, he saw another unbelievable sight. The massive Yellow Springs Road, embodying the life and death of the small thousand world, was truly swallowed by Kong Xuan.


    What kind of monster was this? Could this small thousand world tolerate such a creature? The once-dominant Tian family of the underworld was nothingpared to him. Kong Xuan could swallow the entire Tian family in one gulp.


    The Yellow Springs Road above was gone, only the part below remained.


    Kong Xuan wasn''t satisfied, as if the part underground was the real delicacy.


    "Chirp!"


    A terrifying cry shook Tian Chenzi to his core.


    "Boom!"


    A sense of tearing overwhelmed Tian Chenzi, as if the ground was being ripped apart.


    Tian Chenzi fled, running continuously for a day, until the sounds faded.


    It seemed everything had calmed down. The massive ck holes were slowly being filled by the surrounding space. But Tian Chenzi had no courage left to return.


    Tian Chenzi hid on the periphery, watching intently. After two days, the original Hell of Ten Thousand Fathoms was gradually filled by new space, transforming into a beautiful prairie.


    Swallowing nervously, Tian Chenzi flew towards the area where the gigantic peacock had been. Although he feared the peacock, he assumed it had left by now.


    Soon, Tian Chenzi reached the location where the peacock had stayed. The sight before him left him utterly stunned.


    The Yellow Springs Road was gone, devoured by the peacock. This realization, however, was overshadowed by an even more shocking sight.


    A massive hole, where the Yellow Springs Sea used to be, had formed��a strange and enormous hole. Inside, it wasn''t pitch ck but disyed a scene of a sun, blue sky, and white clouds. The giant peacock spread its wings and flew away into the distance.


    Tian Chenzi was beyond shocked. This small thousand world housed such a terrifying creature? It was unbelievable.


    The Yellow Springs Road, connecting the underworld and the mortal world, had been devoured by the peacock, creating a passage between the two realms.


    A gigantic passage?


    Entering this massive hole would lead directly to the mortal world?


    Tian Chenzi felt his heart race uncontrobly. This revtion was a hundred, a thousand times more shocking than anything Ying had shown him.


    After standing stunned for an incense stick''s worth of time, Tian Chenzi slowly epted the terrifying reality.


    From now on, the underworld and the mortal world were no longer separated!


    Tian Chenzi quickly leaped into the hole.


    As soon as he entered, a powerfulpressive force pressed against his body. Tian Chenzi was initially startled, but then he sighed in relief. The pressure was bearable for someone at the Tianji realm. Anyone below this level would be crushed to pieces.


    No one knew how thick the earth was, but the distance through the tunnel connecting the two realms was surprisingly short. In no time, Tian Chenzi found himself on the other side.


    Reorienting himself, he adjusted to the mortal world once more.


    Flying to the peak of a nearby mountain, Tian Chenzi looked at the enormous hole. He took a deep breath. Encountering the giant peacock again would mean immediate retreat; it was too terrifying.


    In that brief moment, several strong individuals from the mortal world also quickly arrived, each one shocked by the massive hole connecting to the underworld.


    Tian Chenzi reached out and grabbed a man from the crowd.


    "What are you doing? Help! Help!" The man screamed in terror.


    As he was pulled close, the man''s face turned pale with fear. Standing before him was a person whose skin had melted into a bloody mess. Who was he? What did he want? Was he going to eat him?


    "Senior, please don''t eat me!" The man pleaded in terror.


    Tian Chenzi, disgusted by the man''s groveling, asked, "Where is this ce?"


    "This ce? This used to be the Great Qin''s Xianyang Holy Capital, but it suddenly disappeared not long ago!" The man quickly replied.


    "Xianyang Holy Capital?" Tian Chenzi''s brows furrowed.


    "Great Qin? Ying? Xianyang Holy Capital directly opposite the Yellow Springs Road? Located at the center of the world''s dragon veins in Shenzhou? Well yed, Ying!" Tian Chenzi muttered to himself.


    "Senior, can I go now?" The man, feeling relieved that he wouldn''t be eaten, asked cautiously.


    "Where is Lingxiao Heavenly Court of the Great Zhen Dynasty?" Tian Chenzi asked coldly.


    "Lingxiao Heavenly Court?" The man showed a trace of surprise.


    "Speak quickly!" Tian Chenzi''s tone was icy.


    "Head south, just keep going south and you should find it," the man quickly replied.


    "Just head south?"


    "Yes, senior, head south. You won''t go too far off track. You can ask others for more precise directions when you get closer. Can you let me go now, senior?" the man pleaded.


    "Why should I let you go? Hmph!" Tian Chenzi pointed his finger.


    His finger struck the man''s forehead, creating a hole. The man died instantly, and Tian Chenzi shot off towards the south.


    "I must obtain the Tianling quickly! As long as I get the Tianling, I can leave this realm immediately!" Tian Chenzi resolved internally.


    The massive tremor in the underworld was mirrored in the mortal world.


    Northbound Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Zhong Shan sensed the enormous tremor from the north, a look of surprise shing in his eyes. Both the underworld and the mortal world trembled simultaneously?


    "Liu Wushuang, send someone to investigate immediately!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!"


    In the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty.


    Kong Lietian also stared eastward, the recent loud boom too overwhelming to ignore.


    "Send people to investigate immediately!" Kong Lietianmanded.


    "Yes!" an aide responded and quickly left.


    Only Wang Chen remained at Kong Lietian''s side.


    "How is it going? Have you discovered anything from following Ren Zun during this time? The Blood God''s Scripture can only be practiced with your physique. It contains a method for hiding. No one in this realm should be able to detect it. What have you found?" Kong Lietian looked at Wang Chen.


    Wang Chen thought for a moment and shook his head. "Nothing significant, just some trivial matters, nothing special."


    Wang Chen had concealed the fact that Ren Zun, possessing the Chaos Bell, had ambushed Shen Ya Daojun.


    "If there''s nothing, continue investigating and don''t expose yourself!" Kong Lietian said sternly.


    "Yes!" Wang Chen responded promptly.


    Half a yearter.


    Hao Meili returned to Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Zhong Shan, I''m back! The matter at the East Sea, I handled it. How about that?" Hao Meili boasted in front of Zhong Shan.


    "Oh? How did you handle it? Tell me," Zhong Shan showed interest.


    Hao Meili, excited to share her sess, animatedly recounted her story, adding embellishments.


    "Not bad!" Zhong Shan gave her a thumbs-up.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s praise, Hao Meili was ted.


    "By the way, was there any trouble when Ao Sihai ascended after his tribtion?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "When he was ascending? A hole opened in the sky, and about thirty-four people tried to stop Ao Sihai from leaving. I got angry and cursed them, killing seven or eight on the spot. The rest escaped with festering sores all over their bodies. After that, Ao Sihai ascended," Hao Meili said matter-of-factly.


    Zhong Shan broke out in a cold sweat!


    She drew a circle and cursed them, and the people from the Great Thousand World ran away? Thirty-four people?


    It seemed that the ce Ao Sihai ascended from was even more remote than where Jian Ao had ascended.


    But Hao Meili''s curses were too exaggerated! The remaining people fled with festering sores?


    Given such a situation, nearly getting cursed to death before evennding, who would daree in? Those who escaped would undoubtedly have deep psychological scars.


    Likewise, this realm would be even more terrifying in their minds.

 Chapter 800: The Secret of the Immortal Steles

    <h4>Chapter 800: The Secret of the Immortal Steles</h4>


    "You think I handled the Dragon n matter well?" Hao Meili asked, smugly.


    "Well? Very well!"


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s praise, Hao Meili was immensely satisfied, her face full of pride.


    "However, half a year ago, I found thest piece for you as well!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Thest piece? Thest piece of what?" Hao Meili was puzzled.


    "Give me your storage bracelet," Zhong Shan said.


    With a mysterious demeanor, Zhong Shan ced his storage bracelet next to Hao Meili''s delicate golden bracelet. Instantly, the contents transferred to Hao Meili''s bracelet.


    Checking the contents, Hao Meili''s eyes lit up in surprise. "You really found it?"


    "Thest eleven Immortal Steles, they''replete now!" Zhong Shan smiled.


    Hao Meili looked at Zhong Shan with a mix of admiration andplexity.


    "I used to think that if I were strong enough, I could take back everything by force. But the old man taught me a lot, and I realized that many things can''t be taken by brute strength alone. The Immortal Steles, scattered across Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty, Da Li Heavenly Dynasty, Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, Netherworld, Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, and the Longevity World��you managed to find them all. You''re really something else!" Hao Meili said, a bit dejected.


    Clearly, Hao Meili felt psychological pressure knowing Zhong Shan was more capable than she was.


    "I''m a man, so of course, I need to be strong!" Zhong Shan chuckled.


    Hao Meili looked at Zhong Shan, then, seemingly epting the fact, said, "Alright, let''s say you''re the best."


    "Good!"


    "Last time, I mentioned that as long as I could avenge the old man, I would give you the Immortal Steles. Now, all one hundred and eight pieces are here, just the perfect gift for you!" Hao Meili suddenly said.


    Shaking his head, Zhong Shan replied, "This was passed down from your ancestors. You should keep it. Besides, from the person we captured from the Great Thousand World, we learned that the former Holy Emperor Haotian is also back, seemingly waiting to retrieve the Immortal Steles after the sky is opened."


    "Haotian? I don''t care if he dies!" Hao Meili said disdainfully.


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    "One hundred and eight Immortal Steles��I will keep my word. If I said I''d give them to you, I will. And once you know their use, you won''t want to give them up either," Hao Meili smiled.


    "Oh?"


    "These one hundred and eight Immortal Steles are not from this world."


    "Not from this world?"


    "Yes, that person, my ancestor Haotian, actually came from the Great Thousand World. He established an empire in this small thousand world, intending to open the sky. The Immortal Steles were brought here to deal with the aftermath of opening the sky. Unfortunately, his luck ran out, and before he could open the sky, Ao Lie was forced to ascend by Di Xuanhua, so he had to ascend alone. Fearing the Immortal Steles would be discovered in the Great Thousand World, he left them here, knowing the people of the small thousand world wouldn''t recognize them," Hao Meili exined.


    "To deal with the aftermath of opening the sky?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    "These one hundred and eight Immortal Steles are actually treasures of the Wu n, and each one is a legendary ''Great Immortal Artifact,''" Hao Meili said.


    "Each one is a ''Great Immortal Artifact''?" Zhong Shan was astonished.


    "Yes, each one is. But they are useless on their own!" Hao Meili added.


    "Uh, what do you mean?" Zhong Shan was puzzled. Great Immortal Artifacts being useless?


    "The Immortal Steles have only one purpose, and that purpose requires all one hundred and eight pieces to manifest their effect."


    "Oh?"


    "The Immortal Steles are actually ''Boundary Steles'' crafted by the Wu n to guard the four corners of an empire," Hao Meili exined.


    "Boundary Steles?"


    "Within the range of the Boundary Steles, an ''Immortal World'' is formed. No one below the level of a Great Immortal can step inside."


    No one below the level of a Great Immortal can step inside?


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted sharply. No one below the level of a Great Immortal can step inside? This was the ultimate barrier, andpletely controble?


    "Tempted, aren''t you?" Hao Meili smiled.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan nodded, "A priceless treasure indeed!"


    "Of course, otherwise, how could I, Hao Meili, part with it? I''m giving you this treasure, so in the future, if I need your help, you must agree," Hao Meili immediately added.


    "When have I not helped you?" Zhong Shanughed.


    "The past is the past, what if you refuse in the future? I want you to swear," Hao Meili''s face turned serious.


    Zhong Shan broke out in a slight cold sweat. Swearing? To others, it might not matter much, but to swear to Hao Meili, one had to be cautious. She was practically the embodiment of oaths. If you dared break your vow, you''d be in deep trouble.


    "If you give me the Immortal Steles, what if Haotianes after uster...?" Zhong Shan tried to change the subject.


    "Haotian? He is he, and I am I. We don''t have much of a rtionship, and I couldn''t care less about him. Swear now! At least promise me three things!" Hao Meili insisted.


    "Fine, as long as it doesn''t go against my principles, I promise to fulfill three of your requests," Zhong Shan conceded after thinking for a moment.


    In truth, it wasn''t so much about swearing or not. Hao Meili''s background made her dominant exterior mask a heartcking a sense of security. Making Zhong Shan swear was just a way to gain some assurance. And as long as it didn''t vite his principles, Zhong Shan didn''t mind indulging her whims.


    "Alright then!" Hao Meili beamed with joy.


    Ten yearster, in the underworld.


    The Great Zhen army advanced strongly northwards. The area that once housed the Hell of Ten Thousand Fathoms had long be territory of the Great Zhen Dynasty.


    The immense Yellow Springs Sea, along with the Yellow Springs Road, had been entirely devoured by Kong Xuan.


    At the former site of the Yellow Springs Sea, Zhong Shan, Yi Yan, Shui Jing, and others observed the vast passageway.


    "The passage between the two realms. It''s been ten years, Your Majesty. Kong Xuan devoured the Yellow Springs Road ten years ago, yet this passage remains thisrge?" Shui Jing frowned.


    Wang Ku looked at it and said, "It won''t close unless the heavens and earth are recreated. When the small thousand world descends into the Great Thousand World, it will have to close."


    "But how is Kong Xuan''s recovery? ording to Prince Zhong Xuan, it will take a century for Kong Xuan to heal. Will he need the full hundred years?" Shui Jing asked, frowning.


    "Indeed, if Kong Xuan''s injuries heal, he will certainly cause trouble for the Great Zhen Dynasty again. Next time, it might be even more challenging than before," Yi Yan sighed.


    "No use worrying for now. Let''s focus on securing what we can. How much longer until the underworld is unified?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "Forty years. In forty years, the underworld will be unified!" Shui Jing stated firmly.


    "Very well, I give you forty years!" Zhong Shan dered.

 Chapter 801: The Final Battle

    <h4>Chapter 801: The Final Battle</h4>


    Forty yearster, in the underworld. Changjing!


    "Your Majesty, I report with great joy that thest city in the north has officially fallen at the hour of Haist night. From now on, the entire underworld is unified under the Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty!" Shui Jing said with an excited smile.


    Unified underworld, forty yearster, the entire underworld haspletely fallen under the rule of the Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty?


    "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor forever and ever!"


    All the ministers congratted together.


    The unification of the underworld was unprecedented. At least in known history, such an event had never urred. For ten thousand years, the underworld had been divided among various powers, with none able to unify it.


    But the Great Zhen did it. The Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty of His Majesty achieved it, and in just a few centuries. Like an autumn gale sweeping away fallen leaves, it swept through the underworld, unified it, and ruled it solely.


    The first heavenly dynasty of all ages!


    With the unification of the underworld, boundless fortune gathered from all directions.


    "Roar~~~!"


    "Roar~~~!"


    For nine consecutive days, the dragon roars above the sea of fortune clouds were endless and earth-shattering. Countless small golden dragons of fortune tumbled in excitement, growing rapidly due to the massive umtion of fortune. Amidst their fierce roars, the outlines of two majestic dragon heads emerged from the image of fortune.


    These were the primary fortune golden dragons of the Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty, but for the first time in history, there were two of them. Two identical fortune golden dragons roared towards the sky.


    Identical, but one of the fortune golden dragons had a crimson cinnabar mark on its forehead, bing more intense, emitting a faint yet divine power.


    Unified underworld!


    In the mortal realm.


    In the past forty years, the Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty and the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty havepletely divided thend of the former Great Qin.


    Now, Great Zhen and Taishui officially stand in opposition, north and south.


    Lingxiao Heavenly Court. In Zhongshan''s study.


    "Your Majesty, it has been fifty years since Kong Xuan devoured the Yellow Springs Road. Kong Xuan has not appeared during these fifty years. Could it really take a hundred years for him to recover? If that''s the case, can we eliminate the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty at all costs in the remaining fifty years, and then turn our attention to the Immortal Realm?" Yi Yan asked solemnly.


    "A hundred years? Generally, it should be a hundred years, but having devoured the Yellow Springs Road, this must be an exception. His injuries might have healed long ago!" Zhongshan asserted.


    "Oh?"


    "Perhaps because of the ''Heaven''s Secret'' I taught you, Kong Xuan is unable to calcte your actions, so he doesn''t dare to act rashly. Thest incident with the purple giant coffin has already served as a lesson. This time, he will definitely be much more cautious!" Zhongshan confirmed.


    "Then when will Kong Xuan make his move?"


    "Kong Xuan is waiting for an opportunity. If he doesn''t act, it''s fine. But when he does, it will be overwhelming. Therefore, you must always use the Heaven''s Secret, so Kong Xuan cannot discern our reality." Zhongshan said in a deep voice.


    "Understood!" The ministers responded.


    "What is the current situation on the northern battlefield?" Zhongshan asked.


    "The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, being a long-standing dynasty, still has considerable foundations and many talented individuals. Although we have the upper hand in the battle between the two dynasties, it is not significant. The battle is at a stalemate. I earnestly request Your Majesty to allow the deployment of the Four Symbols Formation to expand our territory." Yi Yan petitioned.


    "Approved!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "The Four Symbols Formation will surely be invincible. But what will the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty do to counter in the remaining fifty years?" Zhao Suoxiang pondered aloud.


    "No, though the Four Symbols Formation is formidable, the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty will undoubtedly have countermeasures. However, based on my calctions, the Four Symbols Formation will shine brightly within ten years. Ten years from now, when we face the passage between the two realms, we may encounter the strongest resistance from the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty!" Yi Yan said solemnly.


    "The passage between the two realms? Therge hole created by Kong Xuan devouring the Yellow Springs Road?" Shui Wuhen frowned.


    "Exactly. That ce is a fortress. If that fortress cannot be held, the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s army will copse, losing at least three hundred cities. Therefore, the battle at the passage between the two realms ten years from now will be extremely crucial!" Yi Yan affirmed.


    Pushing the war scenario ten years ahead, several ministers looked at Yi Yan in amazement.


    Predicting the enemy''s actions a thousand miles away is one thing; Yi Yan was predicting ten years into the future.


    "A crucial battle? It''s more than that!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Huh?" Yi Yan looked at Zhong Shan in confusion.


    Zhong Shan pondered deeply for a while, a determined light shing in his eyes, "The battle at the passage between the two realms ten years from now may even be the final battle of the Small Thousand World, thest battle!"


    "Huh?"


    "Huh?"


    The ministers all looked puzzled, except Yi Yan, whose eyes suddenly lit up.


    "Your Majesty, do you mean to...?" Yi Yan was shocked.


    "Yes, I want to n this war. In this battle, we will decide the fate of the world, destroy the Taishui Dynasty, and annihte the Immortal Realm!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "But, what about Kong Xuan...?"


    "Kong Xuan? We will face him sooner orter, it makes no difference. Instead of being cautious every day, it''s better to take a bold gamble. Xuan''er said Kong Xuan needs a hundred years to recuperate. Although we suspect he might recover sooner, it''s just a possibility. Therefore, we must sh with Kong Xuan within this hundred years. At least this way, we have a chance to gain a significant advantage!" Zhong Shan exined.


    "Understood!"


    "The battle at the passage between the two realms is of utmost importance. It requires detailed and multifaceted coordination to settle the fate of the world in one decisive battle!"


    Eight yearster, in the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, Kong Lietian''s study.


    Three men stood before Kong Lietian: Sekong, Wangchen, and Ren Zun.


    "Your Majesty, I understand you suspect me, but I am loyal to the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty. Years ago, when I was destitute, surrounded by ten powerful enemies, Lu Guitian took me in andter invited experts from the Immortal Realm to eliminate those enemies for me. I promised Lu Guitian to serve the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty for five thousand years. With three hundred years left, I will never harbor any disloyalty during this period!" Ren Zun said earnestly.


    "Ren Zun, you misunderstand. When have I ever doubted you? In my heart, you have always been Taishui''s best minister. Otherwise, why would you be included in such a top-secret meeting?" Kong Lietian reassured him.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Ren Zun expressed his gratitude immediately.


    "Your Majesty, eight years ago, since the Four Symbols Formation appeared in the Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty, it has never been defeated. As long as the Four Symbols Formation remains unbroken, our army''s morale will struggle to rise!" Sekong frowned.


    "It''s even moreplex than that," Wangchen added with a frown.


    "Oh?"


    "Just received news that Lingxiao Heavenly Court is moving north, which means Zhong Shan is personally leading the expedition. ording to my calctions, their ultimate target is the passage between the two realms!" Wangchen said solemnly.


    "Oh? The fortress at the passage between the two realms?" Sekong''s expression changed.


    "That''s right. I believe the Four Symbols Formation will arrive there as well. With their strongest impact, they will break through the fortress at the passage between the two realms. If they win, our army will copse and might never recover. If Zhong Shan takes a risk, he might even lead his forces straight to our Taishui Imperial City!" Wangchen stated confidently.


    Wangchen''s calctions had never been wrong.


    "They won''t break through the passage between the two realms. I will personally lead the expedition!" Kong Lietian said in a deep voice.


    It was clear that Wangchen had already discussed this with Kong Lietian, and Kong Lietian had a n in mind.


    "Your Majesty must not go. Zhong Shan is bringing the power of the Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty, while Your Majesty cannot leverage such power on this expedition. It would put Your Majesty at a disadvantage!" Ren Zun immediately said.


    "No matter. I will call upon Daojun Shen Ya and Kong Xuan. Kong Xuan will definitely apany me. The final battle will decide the fate of the world!" Kong Lietian said firmly.


    Hearing Kong Lietian''s resolve, Ren Zun''s eyes lit up.


    "Your Majesty is wise. I am willing to be the vanguard and withstand the Four Symbols Formation for Your Majesty!" Ren Zun said solemnly.


    "Oh?" Kong Lietian looked at Ren Zun.


    "I know of a formation that appeared at the same time as the Four Symbols Formation in ancient times. This formation was specifically designed to counter the Four Symbols Formation. However, I need a strong vanguard. General Wangchen would be the perfect choice." Ren Zun looked at Wangchen.


    "Very well, Wangchen will apany you to break the formation!" Kong Lietian smiled, a glint of inscrutable light in his eyes.


    "Yes! I will do my utmost!" Wangchen immediately replied.


    "Good, you may go and prepare."


    "Yes!"


    The two slowly exited the hall.


    In the hall, only Sekong and Kong Lietian remained.


    "Your Majesty, I fear Zhong Shan. I won''t go. I''ll stay here and guard the Imperial City for Your Majesty!" Sekong said, openly expressing his fear of death.


    Seeing Sekong''s frank and carefree admission of cowardice, Kong Lietian could only look at him speechlessly and say, "Fine, you don''t have to go. Hmph!"


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Sekong wiped the cold sweat from his forehead.


    "Although you are timid, you are still the one I trust the most. What do you think of Ren Zun and Wangchen?" Kong Lietian asked.


    "For me, they are still not trustworthy. My instincts tell me to stay away from them. They exude a lurking danger that makes me want to keep my distance!" Sekong replied truthfully.


    "Understood." Kong Lietian nodded.


    "Your Majesty, what are your ns?" Sekong asked.


    "Just go," Kong Lietian shook his head.


    "Yes!" Sekong immediately retreated.


    Watching Sekong''s retreating figure, Kong Lietian frowned. Ren Zun and Wangchen still posed a danger? For Sekong, they did. After all, in any dynasty, not all ministers could get along harmoniously. As an emperor, it was essential to keep ministers from bing too close.


    "The battle at the passage between the two realms will be your first test, Wangchen. This is your final trial; don''t disappoint me. Ren Zun? You are ultimately a hidden threat. Letting you lead the vanguard also puts you under my watch. Once the passage between the two realms has defeated Zhong Shan, I will thoroughly uncover your secrets!" Kong Lietian contemted.


    PS: please support with rmendation votes. The great decisive battle is about to begin, the biggest ising, asking for rmendation votes, asking for monthly votes.

 Chapter 802: Zhong Shan鈥檚 "Destiny"

    <h4>Chapter 802: Zhong Shan''s "Destiny"</h4>


    After leaving Kong Lietian''s study, Ren Zun maintained a calm expression, but in the earlier conversation, Wangchen had caught a fleeting look of joy on his face.


    Joy, though fleeting, was enough for Wangchen. That brief expression revealed much to Wangchen. He realized that Ren Zun''s ultimate goal might soone to light.


    In the following days, Wangchen asionally discussed strategies to counter the Four Symbols Formation with Ren Zun, but most of the time, he remained covertly vignt.


    One monthter, while leading arge group of cultivators toward the passage between the two realms, Ren Zun suddenly excused himself, and Wangchen discreetly followed him.


    In an extremely secluded mountain forest, Wangchen hid in a small corner, observing.


    In the distance, Ren Zun stood atop a peak.


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous roar filled the sky as dark clouds gathered instantly.


    Wangchen''s eyes widened.


    "Undergoing tribtion? Earthly Immortal Tribtion? Why is Ren Zun undergoing tribtion now? Could it be that his long-awaited moment has finally arrived?" Wangchen frowned in thought.


    "Five thousand years. Ren Zun has been lurking within the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty for nearly five thousand years. What could he be waiting for? And now, this thing is emerging?"


    "Could it be?" Wangchen''s expression changed.


    Lingxiao Heavenly Court was flying northward.


    This was one of the great advantages of Lingxiao Heavenly Court: the capital could move, allowing Zhong Shan to leverage the power of the Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty wherever he went.


    This time, Zhong Shan used himself as bait to lure Kong Xuan and Daojun Shen Ya into the final battle.


    In his study, Zhong Shan reviewed some letters, with Bao''er by his side.


    "Master, are these letters from Shijiu?" Bao''er asked.


    "Yes. He has discerned my intention and is cooperating with my n. He has provoked Kong Lietian into the final battle, and Kong Lietian will undoubtedly bring Kong Xuan and Daojun Shen Ya with him. This saves me a lot of preparation." Zhong Shan put down the letters and rubbed his temples.


    Bao''er immediately moved behind Zhong Shan and began massaging his temples to help him rx.


    "Why is Shijiu doing this? Does he, like Xuan''er, have some hidden agenda? By the way, all of Kong Lietian''s subordinates have a ''Yao'' divine mark. Could that be what''s restraining him?" Bao''er spected.


    "Hard to say," Zhong Shan replied solemnly.


    "Why?" Bao''er frowned.


    "You don''t understand how intelligent Zhong Shijiu is. Among all the ministers of Great Zhen, only Xiao Wang and Yi Yan canpare with him in understanding human nature. Therefore, all his actions are just appearances. Until I ascertain his true intentions, you must treat all his behavior as if you haven''t seen it." Zhong Shan patted Bao''er''s hand.


    "Alright. I really hope he''s like Xuan''er," Bao''er nodded.


    "Let''s hope so. Before the final battle, I need to make one more breakthrough. Please take care of the pce affairs in the meantime," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood."


    In a secret chamber within Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan sat cross-legged, preparing for his final breakthrough before the war.


    The only way to quickly break through was through devouring, devouring precious treasures. Now, even a ninth-grade treasure couldn''t cause the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail to break through. Last time, the Heaven Vein Sword only raised it by one level, and even a Heavenly Immortal artifact could only raise it by one level. What treasures did Zhong Shan have that surpassed a Heavenly Immortal artifact?


    Reaching out, Zhong Shan ced the Fangtian Jade Seal before him. He then opened a jade box beside him, from which a flood of golden light filled the entire hall.


    Inside the box was a golden light cluster��the "destiny" obtained from the annihtion of the Immortal Realm, and within it, a precious treasure. Zhong Shan''s goal was this treasure.


    As for the "destiny" of One Yuan, Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes and pressed the Fangtian Jade Seal onto the golden light cluster.


    Under Zhong Shan''s urging, the golden light seemed to be squeezed out, exploding and filling the hall with a dense golden mist that couldn''t escape. This was because the red bead on the Fangtian Jade Seal emitted a rainbow-colored glow, bringing the nine jade dragons on the seal to life. They opened their mouths and voraciously absorbed the surrounding golden mist.


    The nine dragons were devouring the destiny?


    Zhong Shan controlled the process with extreme caution.


    Simultaneously, an enormousmotion arose in the sky above Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The sea of fortune surged violently, as if filled with new energy. At the center of the sea of merit and fortune, a small, dazzling golden point of light suddenly appeared.


    The golden points grew in number and intensity, drawing the sea of merit and the sea of fortune closer together until they touched.


    Near the imperial city, nearly all officials looked up to the sky, marveling at this extraordinary spectacle.


    The touching of the two seas seemed to ignite the golden points, causing brilliant light wherever the merit and fortune met.


    Below:


    "Destiny? His Majesty is actually able to manifest his own destiny?" Wang Ku eximed in surprise.


    "Is that glowing light destiny?" Yi Yan asked beside him.


    "Indeed, that is destiny, belonging to Great Zhen and His Majesty," Wang Ku replied in awe.


    "What is destiny used for?" Yi Yan inquired.


    "You''ll know soon enough," Wang Ku responded.


    "Huh?"


    Di Xuanhua, Mud Buddha, and others emerged from their residences, gazing at the merging of merit and fortune in the sky.


    There was significantly more fortune than merit, and when all the merit was exhausted, much fortune remained. This golden destiny converged at the center, surrounding the images of the Great Zhen officials.


    In an instant, the images of the officials on the sea of fortune emitted a brilliant golden light. The most prominent, the image of Zhong Shan, not only radiated golden light but also a dazzling rainbow light from above his head. It was incredibly resplendent.


    All the officials'' faces changed, then lit up with joy.


    Zhong Shan now possessed his own destiny. Although it was still sparse, Zhong Shan felt the immense change deeply.


    With the merging of merit and fortune into destiny, Zhong Shan''s cultivation speed, previously 250 times the normal rate, instantly increased to 400 times!


    Four hundred times��a terrifying cultivation speed. This was a huge delight for the entire court. While Zhong Shan, as the supreme leader, enjoyed a 400-fold increase in cultivation speed, mid-level officials like Yi Yan and Di Xuanhua saw their speed increase to 40 times, a substantial and joyful surprise for all.


    The sense of bnce between merit and fortune vanished, reced by aplementary rtionship. Zhong Shan even sensed something mysterious through his grasp of destiny, an elusive feeling that would require future exploration.


    The Fangtian Jade Seal, having absorbed the One Yuan destiny, now enabled Zhong Shan toprehend the method of integrating destiny. The sky was filled with fortune, interspersed with a significant amount of destiny. Zhong Shan now possessed his own destiny, and the Fangtian Jade Seal emitted a colorful glow.


    The Fangtian Jade Seal became even more precious.


    Reaching out, Zhong Shan retrieved the Fangtian Jade Seal. Before him appeared a white fruit.


    A fruit?


    It was the size of a fist, as beautiful as a cat''s eye stone, incredibly solid, and gem-like. It emitted a faint fragrance, reminiscent of an apple.


    Grabbing the white fruit, Zhong Shan frowned slightly. What exactly was this? An immortal fruit from the Great Thousand World?


    Perhaps this fruit had some extraordinary use, but Zhong Shan wasn''t concerned about that. Memorizing its shape, he let the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail devour it in one bite.


    Indeed, it was a precious treasure. Zhong Shan felt a terrifying energy rapidly being transferred into him by the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail.


    "Boom!"


    A muffled sound echoed within Zhong Shan''s body. Two dayster, Zhong Shan stepped out of the hall.


    Could this white fruit beparable to a Heavenly Immortal artifact? One fruit directly propelled Zhong Shan to the ninth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm! Although it was only a single level increase, the energy required for cultivation increased exponentially as one advanced. Zhong Shan''s personal strength surged once more.


    The ninth level of the Heavenly Extreme Realm!


    Two yearster, not far from the passage between the two realms, Lingxiao Heavenly Court came to a stop.


    The Great Zhen army quickly gathered from all directions, setting up camp in the east. In the west, the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s army intensified their presence. Both sides formed formidable barricades, ready for the imminent decisive battle.


    In a valley to the east of Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Tian Chenzi, now unrecognizable with melted skin and blood-soaked flesh, wrapped in a ck robe, gazed at Lingxiao Heavenly Court in the distance.


    "The decisive battle? After all these years, it''s finally about to begin! Cough, cough..." Tian Chenzi said, coughing twice.


    To the west of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, at the frontline camp established by Ren Zun and Wangchen.


    "Senior Ren Zun, how is the preparation of the formation?" Wangchen asked.


    "My formation requires the sacrificial lives of a million cultivators to create a sea of blood, which aligns perfectly with your cultivation technique. Once the battlemences, and a million cultivators die, the formation will beplete. At that time, I will need you, General Wangchen, to lead the formation and charge at the forefront!" Ren Zun said calmly.


    "I won''t hesitate!" Wangchen replied with a smile.


    "Good."


    In a city at the rear.


    Kong Lietian stood on the city wall, looking into the distance with confidence, alongside Daojun Shen Ya.


    "When will Senior Kong Xuan arrive?" Kong Lietian asked.


    "The Grandmaster wille; you don''t need to worry!" Daojun Shen Ya replied sternly.


    "I''m not worried about that. I''m concerned about repeating the same mistake. Last time, we left the Immortal Realm undefended and lost something. We won''t lose it again this time, will we?" Kong Lietian asked with a smile.


    "Last time, the Grandmaster was unprepared. This time, he will set up thousands of prohibitions. No one will be able to take anything!" Daojun Shen Ya said firmly.


    "That''s good. This is the final battle. Zhong Shan has already arrived. Once Zhong Shan dies, there will be no force left to obstruct me. It won''t be long before I unify the world!" Kong Lietian said confidently.


    "Yes, this time, Zhong Shan must die!" Daojun Shen Ya''s eyes shed with hostility.


    If Zhong Shan wasn''t eliminated, he would be a significant obstacle and heart demon in Daojun Shen Ya''s future cultivation.

 Chapter 803: The Sea of Blood Asura Formation

    <h4>Chapter 803: The Sea of Blood Asura Formation</h4>


    Lingxiao Heavenly Court, West Gate!


    Zhong Shan led his ministers, consorts, and numerous subordinates to the west gate, all with solemn expressions as they prepared for the distant battlefield.


    The final battle, the strongest battle!


    Standing with his hands behind his back, Zhong Shan gazed coldly into the distance.


    "Convey my decree: From this moment, no one is permitted to enter Lingxiao Heavenly Court, only to leave. Activate the grand formation and prepare for total defense!" Zhong Shanmanded in a deep voice.


    "Yes!" Liu Wushuang immediately obeyed, and the Jin Yi Guards quickly spread the message.


    "The battle is about to begin. Yi Yan, you willmand the army formations to kill the enemy!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Understood!" Yi Yan stepped forward, a small g appearing in his hand. With a wave of the g, war drums echoed across the sky.


    "Green Dragon Formation, rise!" "Vermilion Bird Formation, rise!" "White Tiger Formation, rise!" "ck Tortoise Formation, rise!"


    With these resounding shouts, the Four Symbols Formation was activated on the battlefield below.


    The enormous formation enveloped the battlefield in an endless white mist, slowly revealing four colossal shadows within it.


    Ten thousand miles tall, the Green Dragon, Vermilion Bird, White Tiger, and ck Tortoise stood towering in the mist. The sight of these immense divine beasts was terrifying, evoking fear even from a distance. The Four Symbols Formation continued its undefeated streak, advancing toward the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s defenses in the west.


    Supported by numerous Great Zhen soldiers, the Four Symbols Formation marched steadily toward the Taishui Dynasty''s fortifications.


    The earth trembled with the thunderous sounds of war, marking the beginning of a rare and grand war unseen for millennia.


    In the west, a distant city named "End of Year City."


    Like Zhong Shan, Kong Lietian led his ministers, standing atop the city wall, with numerous powerful figures behind him and Daojun Shen Ya by his side.


    "How does Zhong Shan have such luck? The Four Symbols Formation? It''s a grand formation even in the Great Thousand World, yet he set it up in the Small Thousand World? And he managed to enlist all four divine beast races?" Kong Lietian grumbled.


    "Zhong Shan is fortunate, but so are you, Kong Lietian. Didn''t Ren Zun im he had a formation that could break the Four Symbols Formation?" Daojun Shen Ya sneered.


    "The Sea of Blood Asura Formation? How could such a formation exist in the Small Thousand World?" Kong Lietian frowned.


    "Legend has it that in ancient times, two saints entered this Small Thousand World for a contest. One saint set up the Four Symbols Formation, while the other countered it with the ''Sea of Blood Asura Formation.'' It was this very formation that broke the Four Symbols Formation. Ren Zun''s origins are indeed extraordinary," Daojun Shen Ya exined.


    "Isn''t that better? Let them fight to the death under our watchful eyes," Kong Lietian sneered.


    "Was it intentional to send Wangchen to the front lines? I''ve heard he was once Zhong Shan''s adopted son. Aren''t you afraid he''ll switch sides?" Daojun Shen Ya asked, a hint of seriousness in his eyes.


    "He won''t. How many years did he follow Zhong Shan? And how many years has he been with me? I''m confident his loyalty is not with Zhong Shan. This has been verified several times. This is his final test. If he passes, he will be my most trusted subordinate!" Kong Lietian asserted.


    "Let''s hope so," Daojun Shen Ya nodded.


    At the West Gate of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan and his entourage were ready to descend to the battlefield. The Four Symbols Formation was already in motion, its colossal divine beasts advancing steadily toward the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s defenses.


    Yi Yan, now inmand, coordinated the Great Zhen army with precision, ensuring the Four Symbols Formation remained imprable.


    In End of Year City, Kong Lietian and Daojun Shen Ya watched the unfolding events with anticipation, their confidence bolstered by the presence of the formidable Sea of Blood Asura Formation, poised to counter Zhong Shan''s advance. The final showdown was imminent, and the fate of the Small Thousand World hung in the bnce.


    At the frontlines, in Ren Zun''s camp.


    "General Wangchen, the enemy is upon us. Command our army to charge at the Four Symbols Formation. As long as the deaths on either side reach a million, the Sea of Blood Asura Formation will be fully activated. Then, it will be up to you to lead the charge!" Ren Zun said calmly.


    Wangchen looked deeply at Ren Zun and nodded, "Understood!"


    With a wave of his hand, the distant war drums roared to life.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The war drums of the Taishui camp also sounded, boosting the morale of the soldiers.


    "All soldiers, charge with me!" Wangchenmanded.


    All themanders were slightly taken aback. The army was divided into vanguard, rear, central, and nking forces; this wasn''t a bandit fight where everyone just rushed in. Warfare required tactical formations for effective control. How could General Wangchenmand an all-out charge with thirty million troops at once?


    Despite their confusion, orders were orders.


    "Kill!"


    The shout of thirty million soldiers drowned out even the sound of the war drums.


    This was the entirety of the frontline forces, moving out in full force. The grand scale matched that of the Four Symbols Formation.


    Many powerful warriors, riding crows and peacocks, charged towards the Four Symbols Formation.


    The two armies shed.


    "Boom!"


    The moment they made contact, a massive explosion resounded, filling the sky with flying flesh and blood. The fierce and brutal battle had officially begun.


    The Four Symbols Formation was powerful, but the Taishui army was not far behind in strength. As the battle raged, shouts of killing and cries of pain echoed all around.


    At Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Big Brother, what is Shijiu doing? Didn''t he send a letter saying he would defect to our side and betray the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty? Why is he fighting against our people?" Zhong Zheng asked in confusion.


    "I think Shijiu is trying to prove himself. He wants to break the Four Symbols Formation, demonstrate his value, and then defect with a victory. He''s always been like this," Zhong Tian replied, frowning in thought.


    "Break the Four Symbols Formation? How is that possible?" Zhong Zheng doubted.


    The war was exceedingly brutal. In less than an hour, the number of dead cultivators had already reached a million.


    In this fierce charge, the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty was severely suppressed. Without breaking the Four Symbols Formation, Taishui was doomed to fail.


    The Great Zhen soldiers fought with increasing vigor, while the morale of the Taishui soldiers gradually waned.


    The Four Symbols Formation remained invincible.


    At this moment, a strange phenomenon urred.


    The Four Symbols Formation was surrounded by white mist, but within the Taishui camp, an eerie blood mist began to appear.


    The blood mist grew thicker, quickly enveloping the western sky and earth. At the center of the rolling blood mist, people seemed to see a vast sea of blood, an entire world of blood.


    The sea of blood churned, and a strong stench of blood filled the air.


    Both armies frowned at the smell.


    This wasn''t the most terrifying part. What was truly horrifying was that the corpses of those who had just been killed suddenly turned into mummified remains, as if all their blood and vitality had been drained.


    Ren Zun''s voice echoed through the chaotic battlefield, cold and unwavering. "General Wangchen, proceed with the assault as nned."


    Wangchen''s eyes glinted with determination. "Understood."


    With a swift motion, Wangchen raised his sword, signaling the entire Taishui army. "Charge!"


    The Taishui soldiers, driven by Wangchen''smand, surged forward with relentless fury. The two forces collided with an earth-shattering crash, the battlefield a maelstrom of violence and chaos.


    The white mist of the Four Symbols Formation shed with the encroaching blood mist, creating a surreal and nightmarish scene. The blood mist thickened, transforming into a palpable, oppressive presence.


    From within the blood mist, grotesque figures emerged, their forms twisted and monstrous. These were the manifestations of the Sea of Blood Asura Formation, feeding off the death and carnage.


    In the midst of this chaos, Zhong Shan watched from Lingxiao Heavenly Court, his expression grim. "This is no ordinary battle. The Sea of Blood Asura Formation... it drains the life force of the fallen. Ren Zun has truly unleashed a horrifying power."


    Zhong Tian, standing beside him, nodded solemnly. "We must stay vignt. The true test lies ahead."


    As the battle raged on, the bnce of power shifted. The once invincible Four Symbols Formation faced an unprecedented challenge. The Sea of Blood Asura Formation spread its influence, threatening to turn the tide of war.


    Amidst the bloodshed and turmoil, the destiny of the Small Thousand World hung in the bnce.


    Within the Sea of Blood, enormous monstrous figures began to emerge. These three-zhang tall giants had massive blood-colored bone horns on their heads, dark red skin, and each hand had only four fingers. Their eyes were blood-red as they stared at the Four Symbols Formation.


    "Roar!"


    One by one, the monsters charged at the Four Symbols Formation.


    "Boom!"


    The initial impact of a single monster wasn''t significant, but ten, a hundred, a thousand, ten thousand? Gradually, the Four Symbols Formation began to ripple.


    "Asuras?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    Zhong Shan had encountered Asuras once before. During the time when Tian Chenzi showed him the records of how Yin Tian brought away Yinn, the creature was simr to these monsters. However, these current monsters seemed tock self-awareness.


    "The Sea of Blood Asura Formation? Your Majesty, the Four Symbols Formation might not hold!" Mud Buddha suddenly said.


    "Oh, you recognize this formation?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, Ren Zun is indeed a formidable feng shui master! In fact, Your Majesty has seen a simr feng shui formation before," Mud Buddha exined.


    "Oh?"


    "The grand formation set up by Shenxiu in the underworld, which concealed heavenly secrets and reversed the natural order. This formation works simrly, transforming the troops within the formation into blood Asuras to besiege the Four Symbols Formation. It''s said that in ancient times, the Four Symbols Formation was broken by this very formation," Mud Buddha borated.


    "Reversing the natural order?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    In the past, Shenxiu had forcibly transformed all the experts within his formation into Yellow Dragons for his own use. Could this be the same?


    "Yes, whether they are Taishui soldiers or Great Zhen soldiers, once they enter this formation, they are forcibly turned into blood Asuras, losing their self-awareness, and are driven to perish with the Four Symbols Formation. This is a terrifying formation. Ren Zun''s feng shui skills far surpass Shenxiu''s; he doesn''t need to encircle and seal the perimeter, just a sacrifice of a million lives to set it up," Mud Buddha said with awe.


    "Everyone loses their self-awareness?" Zhong Shan asked gravely.


    "In the Sea of Blood Asura Formation, only two will retain their minds: the main controller, Ren Zun, and the secondary controller within the formation, likely Wangchen. However, Ren Zun is primary, Wangchen is secondary!"


    "How do we break this formation? How long can the Four Symbols Formation hold?"


    "The Four Symbols Formation cannot hold. Once it copses, our rear troops will face this formation, and it will be dangerous. I need to set up a feng shui formation to counter it immediately," Mud Buddha said solemnly.


    "Go!"


    "Yes!"


    Within the Sea of Blood, almost all the troops had vanished. Both Great Zhen and Taishui soldiers were gone, each transformed into blood Asuras, continuously exploding against the Four Symbols Formation.


    Though powerful, the relentless assaults strained the formation''s limits.


    "Boom!" With each violent impact, the Four Symbols Formation trembled.


    From the distant city wall of End of Year City, Kong Lietian smiled.


    "What a great formation!" Daojun Shen Ya also praised.


    Below Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the Great Zhen soldiers were in shock. What kind of formation was this? It hadpletely enveloped the Four Symbols Formation! So powerful!


    Back on the battlefield, Wangchen, having retained his mind as the secondary controller of the Sea of Blood Asura Formation, led the blood Asuras in their relentless assault. His mind was clear, focused on the task at hand, knowing full well the significance of this battle.


    Ren Zun, standing at the center of the formation, orchestrated the attacks with calcted precision. His eyes gleamed with the knowledge and power he wielded. The sacrifices were a necessary evil, a means to an end, to break the seemingly invincible Four Symbols Formation.


    Zhong Shan, watching from Lingxiao Heavenly Court, felt the weight of the situation. The Four Symbols Formation, despite its strength, was faltering. The unrelenting attacks of the blood Asuras were taking their toll.


    "Prepare for the worst," Zhong Shanmanded. "We must be ready to counter once the formation falls."


    Yi Yan and other key generals nodded, their faces grim but resolute. The fate of the Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty hung in the bnce, and every move from this point onward was crucial.


    As the battle raged on, the true nature of the Sea of Blood Asura Formation became evident. Its ability to turn the fallen into mindless yet powerful warriors was a testament to Ren Zun''s mastery. The battlefield was a chaotic symphony of blood, death, and relentless assault.


    The climax of this epic confrontation approached, with both sides preparing for the final push. The oue would determine the future of the Small Thousand World, a world teetering on the edge of chaos and order.

 Chapter 804: Wangchen鈥檚 Betrayal and Kong Xuan鈥檚 Arrival

    <h4>Chapter 804: Wangchen''s Betrayal and Kong Xuan''s Arrival</h4>


    The blood sea roared, with millions of Asuras surging forward, endlessly crashing against the Four Symbols Formation. Atop a massive blood-red wave stood an Asura exuding an overwhelming aura. This Asura was different from the others; his eyes were not blood-red but normal, and he wielded a five-zhang long weapon, a Fangtian Halberd.


    Within the formation, Wangchen, the only person with a clear mind, was also the Asura King, the formation''s controller.


    Wangchenmanded wave after wave of assaults. The powerful Asuras were the most terrifying weapons of war.


    At Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan watched with a calm demeanor, observing Wangchen, who had transformed into the Asura King, with a silent scrutiny.


    "Does Shijiu insist on proving his strength? How many must die for this?" Zhong Zheng frowned.


    "No!" Zhong Tian shook his head beside him.


    "What?"


    "Have you noticed that the Asuras attacking the Four Symbols Formation are all from the western side?"


    "You mean Shijiu is only using Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s soldiers as cannon fodder?" Zhong Zheng''s eyes lit up.


    In the distance, the Asura King''s eyes widened. A blood-red "Yao" character suddenly appeared on his forehead.


    "Boom!"


    The massive blood sea surged tenfold, the waves rising high into the sky.


    "All Asuras, charge!"


    With the Asura King''s Fangtian Halberd pointing at the Four Symbols Formation, countless Asuras from the blood sea madly rushed towards the formation.


    "Roar!"


    The Asura King roared, causing the blood sea to surge up to ten thousand li, then fifteen thousand li high. The waves, along with the countless Asuras, crashed down on the Four Symbols Formation with an apocalyptic force,pletely enveloping it.


    The Asura King rode the waves, standing high above, watching this strongest assault. This attack sacrificed millions of Asuras, utilizing the full power of the blood sea to crush the Four Symbols Formation.


    "Explode!"


    "Boom!"


    The tremendous explosion and the powerful impact caused the space to shake violently, creating countless ck holes that were immediately filled by the blood sea.


    The terrifying noise and tremors reached Lingxiao Heavenly Court in the east and End of Year City in the west, where Kong Lietian stood.


    "Boom!"


    The massive Four Symbols Formation exploded, with countless divine beasts severely injured and submerged in the blood sea. Only a few divine beasts managed to escape.


    The blood sea was filled with Asuras, and in this environment, the divine beasts were at a significant disadvantage.


    "Ah!"


    At the peak of the giant wave, Wangchen''s forehead''s divine mark split in two, seemingly shattered by the forceful maniption of the blood sea''s power.


    The Sea of Blood Asura Formation had broken the Four Symbols Formation.


    From Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan observed the unfolding chaos with a mixture of concern and strategy. The Four Symbols Formation, once a symbol of their unbeatable strength, was now in ruins. The blood sea, filled with relentless Asuras, threatened to overwhelm everything in its path.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed as he turned to hismanders. "Prepare for the worst. We must hold our ground and protect our people. The battle is far from over."


    Yi Yan and the other generals nodded, their faces set in determination. The stakes were higher than ever, and they couldn''t afford to lose theirposure.


    In End of Year City, Kong Lietian and Daojun Shen Ya watched the devastation with satisfaction.


    "What a magnificent formation!" Daojun Shen Ya praised.


    Kong Lietian smirked. "Zhong Shan''s forces are finally crumbling. With the Four Symbols Formation broken, it''s only a matter of time before we achieveplete victory."


    Suddenly, a powerful aura approached from the horizon. The sky darkened as a massive figure descended. It was Kong Xuan, his presence overwhelming and formidable.


    Kong Lietian''s eyes gleamed with excitement. "Kong Xuan has arrived! Now, the tide of this battle will turn decisively in our favor."


    Daojun Shen Ya nodded. "With Kong Xuan''s power added to ours, Zhong Shan''s defeat is inevitable."


    Back on the battlefield, Wangchen, now free from the control of the divine mark, looked around at the chaos he had helped unleash. A fleeting expression of regret crossed his face, but he steeled himself. The battle was far from over, and his role in it was crucial.


    As the blood sea continued to surge and the Asuras pressed their advantage, the arrival of Kong Xuan signaled a new phase in the conflict. The bnce of power was shifting, and the oue of this epic confrontation would soon be decided.


    At End of Year City, the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s army erupted in cheers, while the Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty''s morale plummeted. Countless soldiers looked fearfully at the tumultuous blood sea in the distance. They knew well the strength of the Four Symbols Formation, yet such a powerful formation had been shattered.


    What now?


    "Good!" Kong Lietian at End of Year City expressed his excitement.


    The blood sea surged towards the Great Zhen army. How would they respond?


    At the peak of the giant wave, the Asura King, having defeated the Four Symbols Formation, looked at the struggling divine beasts in the blood sea with a sinister smile. He held his Fangtian Halberd horizontally and shed from south to north.


    "Boom!"


    The massive blood sea split in two with this strike.


    Everyone was bewildered. What was the Asura King doing?


    "Scatter!"


    With a shout, the Asura King dispersed the eastern half of the blood sea, releasing the Great Zhen soldiers and divine beasts.


    They looked infinitely astonished. The Asura King was letting them go?


    "What is he doing?" Kong Lietian''s pupils contracted.


    At that moment, the Asura King turned his head and gave a disdainful smile towards End of Year City from a distance. That smile caused Kong Lietian''s face to change drastically, and Daojun Shen Ya''s pupils to contract.


    "Blood Wave Tsunami!"


    With a shout, the Asura Kingmanded the endless blood waves and countless Asuras to rush towards the west, sweeping over the Taishui army.


    After giving this order, the Asura King stepped out of the blood sea, transforming back into the valiant general, Wangchen.


    Wangchen headed east alone.


    "Shijiu has returned, Shijiu hase back!" Zhong Zheng eximed excitedly.


    "Yes!" Zhong Tian also showed a trace of excitement.


    "Master!" Bao''er looked at Zhong Shan.


    As Wangchen flew towards them, the Great Zhen divine beast army surrounded him. The divine beasts from the Four Symbols Formation blocked Wangchen''s path.


    Yin Luori, Guish��, and others stopped Wangchen.


    "Stop!" Yin Luori shouted.


    "I am Zhong Shijiu, son of His Majesty the Great Zhen Emperor. Who dares to stop me?" Wangchen roared.


    Wangchen''s roar caused Yin Luori and the others to hesitate. The son of the Emperor? An infiltrator sent to Taishui? Zhong Shijiu?


    Thinking of Zhong Shijiu, Yin Luori recalled past rumors. Could Wangchen really be Zhong Shijiu? And if not, why would he turn against Taishui just now? Furthermore, in the blood sea earlier, nearly all the sacrifices were Taishui soldiers.


    Yin Luori hesitated.


    "By His Majesty''smand, Yin Luori is to escort Wangchen to the southern military camp!" Liu Wushuang arrived with Zhong Shan''s order.


    "Yes!" Yin Luori immediately obeyed.


    The southern military camp was not in Lingxiao Heavenly Court but in a military camp of the Great Zhen army to the south, where Yin Luori and others had been stationed previously.


    Wangchen raised an eyebrow. "By His Majesty''smand, Yin Luori is to escort Wangchen to the southern military camp?" Escort Wangchen? Why not Zhong Shijiu?


    At End of Year City, Kong Lietian watched in horror as the blood sea turned against the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty. The Asura King had betrayed them, and the blood sea, filled with countless Asuras, now surged westward.


    "What''s happening? Why is he doing this?" Kong Lietian''s voice trembled with a mix of anger and fear.


    Daojun Shen Ya''s face darkened. "We''ve been deceived. Wangchen... no, Zhong Shijiu has turned the blood sea against us. We need to regroup and counter this immediately!"


    The Taishui army, caught off guard by the sudden betrayal, struggled to form a coherent defense against the oing tide of Asuras. Panic and chaos spread rapidly as soldiers tried toprehend the enormity of the situation.


    Back at the southern military camp, Yin Luori escorted Wangchen to the central tent. The atmosphere was tense, with soldiers and officers alike eyeing Wangchen warily.


    Inside the tent, Zhong Shan awaited with an unreadable expression.


    "Father," Wangchen said, bowing deeply. "I have returned."


    Zhong Shan studied him for a long moment before nodding. "You''ve done well, Shijiu. But we have no time for reunions. The battle is far from over, and we must strategize our next move."


    Wangchen straightened, his face resolute. "I understand. I will do whatever it takes to secure victory for the Great Zhen Heavenly Dynasty."


    As they began discussing their ns, the tension in the camp eased slightly. The soldiers, seeing their leaders united and determined, felt a renewed sense of hope and purpose.


    Meanwhile, in the distance, Kong Xuan finally arrived at the battlefield. His presence was a beacon of immense power and authority, instantlymanding attention and respect.


    "Kong Xuan is here," Daojun Shen Ya said, relief evident in his voice. "With him, we still have a chance."


    Kong Xuan surveyed the battlefield, his eyes narrowing as he took in the situation. He turned to Kong Lietian and Daojun Shen Ya. "Prepare the troops. We will push back the blood sea and reim our advantage."


    The final phase of the battle was about to begin, with the fate of the Small Thousand World hanging in the bnce.


    Wangchen said nothing as he followed Yin Luori swiftly towards the southern military camp.


    At the city wall of End of Year City, Kong Lietian was furious.


    "Traitor! Traitor Wangchen, how dare you betray me?" Kong Lietian roared in rage.


    Wangchen, whom he had trusted the most, had betrayed him. Kong Lietian could not ept it. It was uneptable.


    "He betrayed you? It seems your judgment isn''t as great as you thought!"


    A soft, ethereal voice came from behind Kong Lietian. He turned around abruptly to see a handsome young man standing there. His face, however, was covered in cracks, like a shattered porcin mask pieced back together.


    Kong Xuan had arrived!


    "Greetings, Grandmaster!" Daojun Shen Ya immediately said.


    "Senior Kong Xuan!" Kong Lietian, suppressing his anger, bowed in respect.


    "He betrayed you, and what can you do about it?" Kong Xuan said with a cold smile.


    "I want him dead. He bears my divine mark. I want him dead!" Kong Lietian said with a chilling tone.


    With that, Kong Lietian made a gesture, and the crack on his forehead shed with three-colored light.


    "Why isn''t it reacting?" Kong Lietian''s face changed.


    "Because he has already shattered your divine mark!" Kong Xuan said indifferently.


    Kong Xuan walked to the front of the city wall and gazed into the distance towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Zhong Shan, standing at Lingxiao Heavenly Court, looked back at Kong Xuan from afar.


    Kong Xuan? You have finally arrived!


    At the southern military camp, which resembled a grand hall, Wangchen entered with Yin Luori. They saw Zhong Shan waiting for them. Although Zhong Shan stood at the west gate of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, his doppelg?nger hade to the southern camp.


    "Son Zhong Shijiu greets adoptive father!" Wangchen immediately knelt.


    "Is it really Zhong Shijiu?" Yin Luori looked surprised.


    "Zhong Shijiu?" Zhong Shan looked at Wangchen.


    "Adoptive father, I will exin the events of the Dragon Gate Conferenceter. I have an urgent matter to report. My adoptive mother, the grand adoptive mother, was harmed by Kong Lietian. Although I have never seen her, I saw Kong Lietian''s ck banner. The banner contains countless ghosts, intended to summon the strongest ghost king. The spirits are still inside, and my adoptive mother''s spirit might still be there. Adoptive father, please save her!" Wangchen eximed.


    Yin Luori''s face changed at the mention of the grand adoptive mother. The primary empress among the divine images in Lingxiao Heavenly Court was not Gan Bao''er but someone who had never appeared before, indicating her high status in Zhong Shan''s heart. Could she be the legendary Wei Kuier?


    Wangchen urgently reported this critical news and looked up at Zhong Shan. In his memory, the grand adoptive mother held a vital ce in his adoptive father''s heart. This news should provoke a strong reaction from Zhong Shan.


    However, Zhong Shan''s expression remained calm, extremely calm.


    "I understand," Zhong Shan replied simply.


    "Adoptive father!" Wangchen called out urgently.


    "Wait here until the war is over," Zhong Shan said.


    With that, Zhong Shan''s figure blurred and vanished. Yin Luori bowed slightly to Wangchen and quickly left, leaving Wangchen standing alone, bewildered. Everything was not going as he had expected.


    Zhong Shan appeared calm, but internally, his mind was a storm of emotions. Kuier could be revived? Kuier had not perished entirely? The ck banner, the ck banner, the ck banner!


    At the west gate of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan took a deep breath. His gaze shifted from Kong Xuan to Kong Lietian, a look of urgency in his eyes.


    "Master, what did Shijiu say? Should we acknowledge him?" Bao''er asked.


    Zhong Shan''s agitation was interrupted by Bao''er. He took a deep breath, looked at Bao''er, and then at the distant military camp.


    "Shijiu? This will be his final test. If he remains in the camp after the battle, it will prove his sincerity and loyalty to the Zhong family, and he will be the fourth prince of Great Zhen. If he leaves, then..." Zhong Shan shook his head, not finishing the sentence.

 Chapter 805: Zhong Shan and Kong Xuan

    <h4>Chapter 805: Zhong Shan and Kong Xuan</h4>


    The Sea of Blood Asura Formation, reversed by Wangchen, surged back. However, Wangchen was merely a secondary controller, not the primary one. Ren Zun still controlled the formation, and with a wave of his hand, he stopped the blood sea from moving westward.


    Wangchen had betrayed them!


    Ren Zun smiled faintly. "Kong Lietian? What of the Kong family? A ruler inferior to his minister, how could the minister truly be loyal?"


    Ren Zun was not surprised by Wangchen''s departure; it seemed inevitable. Kong Lietian, a scion of the Kong family, would never fully utilize Wangchen''s talents. Even if Wangchen entered the Kong family, he would not be valued. If Kong Lietian were an ordinary disciple, Wangchen could surpass him through his abilities. However, Kong Lietian''s noble lineage created a master-servant rtionship that Wangchen could never ovee. Kong Lietian''s limited future meant Wangchen would eventually rebel.


    Ren Zun turned his head to look at Kong Lietian on the city wall of End of Year City.


    At that moment, Ren Zun''s pupils contracted.


    "Kong Xuan?" Ren Zun''s face turned serious as he quickly turned towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    With a wave of his sleeve, countless blood seas enveloped Ren Zun, as if to hide his presence from prying eyes.


    To the north of Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Tian Chenzi sat in a mountain, concealing his aura and staring intently at the west gate of Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Tian Ling''er, standing among three other women, felt a strange sensation and shifted her gaze from the blood sea to her surroundings.


    "What''s wrong?" Bao''er asked.


    "Nothing, just a strange feeling," Tian Ling''er replied, dismissing it.


    Tian Chenzi quickly averted his gaze, knowing this was not the right moment to act. Zhong Shan and numerous Great Zhen experts were present, making any move now too risky.


    Suddenly, Tian Chenzi sensed a familiar aura. The Great Peacock? His face changed as he looked towards End of Year City in the southwest and saw Kong Xuan. A look of joy spread across Tian Chenzi''s face.


    "Truly, heaven helps me!" he murmured.


    In the southern military camp below Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Wangchen pondered deeply after Zhong Shan''s departure. After a while, he walked out of the grand hall.


    No soldiers dared to stop him. Wangchen''s previous battle had established his strength and respect. He had broken the Four Symbols Formation; his prowess was undeniable. Additionally, Yin Luori had emphasized that Wangchen was a guest to be treated with utmost respect.


    Standing at the hall''s entrance, Wangchen gazed at the west gate of Lingxiao Heavenly Court from afar.


    He furrowed his brow, his eyes reflecting a mix of emotions.


    Memories of the past reyed in Wangchen''s mind.


    After a long while, he muttered to himself, "Father, why can I never understand you?"


    "Why call me Wangchen and not Shijiu? Are you still holding a grudge?"


    "No, Father is as magnanimous as the vast sea; he wouldn''t hold a grudge. There must be a reason for it!"


    "The death of my adoptive mother has always been a nightmare for Father. I believe, even after tens of thousands of years, he feels the same. But why was he so calm just now? Is it because he doesn''t trust me?"


    "Is it because of Yinn? I deliberately provoked her with reverse psychology; Father couldn''t have missed that."


    In the southern military camp, Wangchen''s mind raced as he tried to decipher Zhong Shan''s intentions. Despite his turmoil, he remainedposed on the outside, a testament to his training and discipline. The camp buzzed with activity, soldiers preparing for the next phase of the battle, unaware of the inner conflict their leaders faced.


    At End of Year City, Kong Lietian''s fury knew no bounds. The betrayal of Wangchen had struck a deep blow.


    "Traitor! Traitor Wangchen, how dare you betray me?" Kong Lietian roared in rage.


    "He betrayed you? It seems your judgment isn''t as great as you thought!" a soft, ethereal voice came from behind Kong Lietian. He turned abruptly to see a handsome young man standing there, his face covered in cracks like a shattered porcin mask pieced back together.


    Kong Xuan had arrived!


    "Greetings, Grandmaster!" Daojun Shen Ya immediately said.


    "Senior Kong Xuan!" Kong Lietian, suppressing his anger, bowed in respect.


    "He betrayed you, and what can you do about it?" Kong Xuan said with a cold smile.


    "I want him dead. He bears my divine mark. I want him dead!" Kong Lietian said with a chilling tone.


    With that, Kong Lietian made a gesture, and the crack on his forehead shed with three-colored light.


    "Why isn''t it reacting?" Kong Lietian''s face changed.


    "Because he has already shattered your divine mark!" Kong Xuan said indifferently.


    Kong Xuan walked to the front of the city wall and gazed into the distance towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Zhong Shan, standing at Lingxiao Heavenly Court, looked back at Kong Xuan from afar.


    Kong Xuan? You have finally arrived!


    Zhong Shan''s mind whirled with thoughts of Wei Kuier. If what Wangchen said was true, if there was even a chance that her soul was trapped in Kong Lietian''s ck banner, he had to act. But not now. The battle required his full attention, and any rash move could jeopardize their position.


    "Master, what did Shijiu say? Should we acknowledge him?" Bao''er asked.


    Zhong Shan''s agitation was interrupted by Bao''er. He took a deep breath, looked at Bao''er, and then at the distant military camp.


    "Shijiu? This will be his final test. If he remains in the camp after the battle, it will prove his sincerity and loyalty to the Zhong family, and he will be the fourth prince of Great Zhen. If he leaves, then..." Zhong Shan shook his head, not finishing the sentence.


    "What could that be?" Wangchen''s face continued to change.


    Just as Zhong Shan had intended, this period in the southern military camp was the ultimate psychological test for Wangchen. It was a journey of self-reflection.


    If Wangchen''s heart trulyy with Zhong Shan and the Zhong family, if he believed without regret that his roots were with the Zhong family, he would find peace in his return. However, if Wangchen had ulterior motives, his conscience would be troubled, and Zhong Shan''s earlier calm demeanor would lead to endless spection. The smarter the person, the more they would find "evidence" to support their suspicions. Wangchen, being exceptionally intelligent, would be tormented by his own doubts for the duration of the war.


    On Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan watched the blood sea surge once more. His expression remained unperturbed. This final battle would not end so easily.


    "Di Xuan Sha, this might be thest battle in the Small Thousand World. This time, I officially leave Shen Ya Daojun to you. Unlikest time, I want him dead," Zhong Shan said to Di Xuan Sha beside him.


    "I understand," Di Xuan Sha nodded.


    "Give it your all in this final battle. Leave a legend for the world," Zhong Shan said, looking meaningfully at Di Xuan Sha.


    Di Xuan Sha was surprised by Zhong Shan''s gaze, which seemed to pierce his soul. It felt as if Zhong Shan knew everything about him, making Di Xuan Sha break into a cold sweat.


    Taking a deep breath to calm his shock, Di Xuan Sha nodded solemnly, "Rest assured, I will give my all this time!"


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Their brief exchange was unnoticed by others, but the depth of meaning was clear to the two of them.


    "Zhong Shan, the blood sea ising again. Do you need my help to curse them?" Hao Meili eagerly offered.


    "Not now," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Why not?"


    "Because it would be dangerous for you."


    "How could it be dangerous for me?" Hao Meili asked incredulously.


    "Do you see that green-d youth on End of Year City?" Zhong Shan pointed.


    "Ew, he''s covered in cracks, how disgusting!" Hao Meili showed a disgusted expression.


    "His name is Kong Xuan. His strength is no less than that of ''Ying.'' Just as you couldn''t curse Ying, you won''t be able to curse him either. Moreover, the curse master in the underworld might have been trained by him. If you act, you will disrupt the bnce and force him to act prematurely. That''s not what I want, and you will be targeted," Zhong Shan exined.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s concern, Hao Meili smiled faintly and nodded, "Okay."


    Zhong Shan had another reason he didn''t mention: he was buying time, continuing to feign weakness. On this battlefield, the strongest was not himself but the heavily injured Kong Xuan.


    Having chosen to confront Kong Xuan, Zhong Shan needed to prepare thoroughly. Kong Xuan was a cunning opponent, and brute strength alone wouldn''t secure victory. The battle had to be fought strategically, from the heart. Last time, Zhong Xuan had been there; this time, it would be even more challenging without him.


    Additionally, after Zhong Xuan''s painful lesson, Kong Xuan would be much more cautious. This caution needed to be exploited perfectly.


    To fight Kong Xuan, Zhong Shan had to give his all, leveraging every possible advantage��timing, terrain, human resources, mental fortitude, ferocity, and even powers beyond the Great Thousand World. Everything had to be utilized against Kong Xuan.


    Kong Xuan? An ancient mighty figure, so what? With his severely injured body, he was like a dragon stranded in shallow waters, mocked by shrimp. This time, I, a mere mortal, will challenge your might!


    With a gaze full of determination, Zhong Shan stared at the distant End of Year City.


    Kong Xuan, standing atop the city wall, smiled coldly. Beneath that smiley a hint of solemnity. The memory of Zhong Xuan''s Great Derivation Life-Slicing Technique was still fresh. He had to be cautious; Zhong Shan was extremely cunning.


    "Senior Kong Xuan, should we kill Zhong Shan first?" Kong Lietian asked.


    "Kill? Don''t you want to contend with such a formidable adversary?" Kong Xuan asked with a sidelong nce.


    "Contend? We can contend any time, but not now. On the battlefield, it''s a matter of life and death, winner takes all. With you here, we have an absolute advantage. Why waste the effort?" Kong Lietian shook his head.


    Kong Xuan raised an eyebrow at Kong Lietian. "Didn''t Confucius teach you? The path of the emperor requires both strategy and tempering. Court struggles and imperial battles are the best ways to hone your skills. Only by repeatedly defeating opponents and personally destroying enemy dynasties can your path of the emperor be sharp and invincible."


    "But..." Kong Lietian frowned.


    "Do you know why you are not as good as Zhong Shan?" Kong Xuan asked bluntly.


    On the city wall, only Kong Xuan could speak to Kong Lietian so candidly. Although Kong Lietian was unwilling to admit it, he could only listen with a grim face when Kong Xuan spoke.


    "You''re smart, but youck Zhong Shan''s decisiveness and courage. Your power and influence came too easily, protected by the Kong family, our Immortal Realm, and the previous Taishui Heavenly Dynasty. Look at Zhong Shan''s life��he started from nothing. Everything he has was built with his own hands. His ten armymanders, aside from the deceased woman, which one didn''t he conquer with his own means? I''ve reviewed his records; most of thesemanders were once his enemies. Yet Zhong Shan, with his vast tolerance, turned these strong adversaries into his allies. He has the courage to contend with any dynasty on his own. Do you?" Kong Xuan said solemnly.


    "I don''t?" Kong Lietian retorted, displeased.


    "Then why did you call for me? Because only I can kill him. Suchck of courage to face the enemy will make you weaker and Zhong Shan stronger," Kong Xuan stated firmly.


    Hearing Kong Xuan''s words, Kong Lietian remained silent, his eyelids twitching.


    "Skills aren''t meant to be hidden. Over time, hidden skills be outdated as opponents develop new abilities that surpass yours. This is the final battle; show your full strength and let me see what the Kong family has chosen in you. When you truly can''t defeat Zhong Shan, I will step in and ensure his destruction," Kong Xuan said.


    "Thank you for your guidance, Senior!" Kong Lietian took a deep breath and nodded.


    With renewed courage, Kong Lietian looked towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court, while Kong Xuan stood behind him, his eyes narrowing slightly.


    While Kong Xuan was instructing Kong Lietian, his primary motive was self-preservation. By having Kong Lietian lead the charge, Kong Xuan could observe carefully and ensure there were no unforeseen dangers before decisively striking down Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s gaze met Kong Xuan''s from afar, each recognizing the other''s presence and strength. This was a battle of wits, courage, and strategy, where only the most prepared would emerge victorious.


    Within the southern military camp, Wangchen''s thoughts were a maelstrom of confusion and introspection. Zhong Shan''s calm reaction to the news of Wei Kuier had thrown him off bnce. Was it mistrust? Strategy? Or something deeper? As he stood lost in thought, he realized this was his ultimate test��one that would determine his ce within the Zhong family and his future.


    Zhong Shan, maintaining hisposed exterior, was internally calcting every move, every possibility. He knew this battle against Kong Xuan required more than just raw power. It demanded precision, patience, and the element of surprise. He had to draw Kong Xuan out, make himmit, and then strike with everything he had.


    "Master, what did Shijiu say? Should we acknowledge him?" Bao''er asked, breaking Zhong Shan''s reverie.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath, considering his response. "Shijiu? This will be his final test. If he remains in the camp after the battle, it will prove his sincerity and loyalty to the Zhong family, and he will be the fourth prince of Great Zhen. If he leaves, then..." Zhong Shan''s voice trailed off, leaving the implication hanging in the air.


    Bao''er nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. Zhong Shan''s decision would shape the future of their dynasty and the fate of those loyal to it. Theing battle would be a defining moment, one that would resonate through history.

 Chapter 806: The Deception of Ren Zun

    <h4>Chapter 806: The Deception of Ren Zun</h4>


    Wang Chen''s betrayal changed nothing; the Blood Sea Shura Array continued its relentless expansion eastward.


    The surging Blood Sea roared forth, with countless Shuras within it charging forward in endless waves. As long as Ren Zun remained, the Blood Sea was an invincible myth.


    Even before the blood waves reached them, the stench of blood was overwhelming. Those with lower cultivation levels immediately felt dizzy.


    The Four Symbols Array couldn''t hold back the Blood Sea Shura Array. What would they do next?


    At the West Gate of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Yi Yan waved his banner, and the army made way because the Feng Shui Array prepared by the y Bodhisattva wasplete.


    Suddenly, a massive rift tore open in the ground, and a blinding golden light shot up into the sky.


    Soon, everyone saw what it was.


    A colossal fireball, unimaginablyrge, with a diameter of nearly ten thousand miles. What kind of fireball was this? It was clearly a sun!


    The emerging sun couldn''t rise into the sky; it could only roll along the ground. The earth around it was instantly melted into endless magma.


    The sun rolled towards the Blood Sea Shura Array, turning the ground it touched into a sea of magma. The rolling magma, led by the sun, surged towards the Blood Sea Shura Array.


    The Dazhen army was already horrified. The terrifying ''sun,'' even from a distance, felt like it could burn their clothes to ashes.


    Under themand of their leaders, the entire army quickly retreated to both sides.


    The terrifying sea of magma rushed towards the Blood Sea.


    The Blood Sea was vast, even a sun with a diameter of ten thousand miles seemed insignificant inparison. However, the sun had one advantage: its extreme heat. As soon as the Blood Sea got close, it was instantly evaporated, and the Shuras were incinerated before they could even advance. The previous method of self-detonation against the Four Symbols Array waspletely ineffective.


    "One Sun Burning Heaven Array?" Kong Xuan at Suimo City squinted his eyes.


    "One Sun Burning Heaven Array? Master, this array is a secret formation in the Great Thousand World, how could it appear here?" Kong Lietian eximed.


    "After tens of thousands of years, I finally see that this Small Thousand World is truly extraordinary," Kong Xuan said solemnly.


    "Ancestor, can the Blood Sea Shura Array handle this?" Shenya Daojun asked.


    "The Blood Sea Shura Array is not so easily broken. It was created by a Saint. Breaking it? Hmph!" Kong Xuan shook his head.


    Kong Xuan looked around and muttered to himself, "Zhong Shan indeed came prepared. The east is filled with various arrays: Feng Shui Arrays, Silence Arrays, Battle Arrays. I wonder if there are Fate Maniptors too. Hmph, if I were at my peak, a single sweep of my Five-colored Divine Light would cleanse even a billion arrays."


    The vast magma finally touched the Blood Sea. The Blood Sea steamed, sending endless blood mist skyward, turning the entire sky blood red.


    The magma gradually solidified under the Blood Sea. Above the vast Blood Sea, a golden sun kept rising and falling, constantly moving.


    The Blood Sea tried to extinguish the sun, while the sun attempted to evaporate the Blood Sea. For a time, the two strange phenomena were at a stalemate.


    Countless soldiers were already stunned. Was this a war? It was purely a sh of two monstrous weapons.


    Lingxiao Heavenly Court, West Gate.


    "Your Majesty, the y Bodhisattva is in that sun, will he be alright?" Yi Yan asked with a frown.


    "The y Bodhisattva started setting up this array ten years ago. Don''t worry, he will be fine," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!"


    At the center of the battlefield, it was a showdown between the y Bodhisattva and Ren Zun. Their Feng Shui battle was an elusive one, difficult for outsiders to grasp. It seemed intangible, yet it had tangible effects, creating a bewildering spectacle.


    The Blood Sea grewrger and stronger, expanding endlessly. Inside, the sun continued to evaporate the sea, but it seemed there was always more water to boil away.


    An entire day passed without a clear victor.


    "The One Sun Burning Heaven Array, is that all it can do?" Ren Zun''s voice suddenly echoed from within the Blood Sea.


    At that moment, something strange urred.


    "Boom!" The entire surface of the Blood Sea burst into towering mes, instantly covering the entire sea. The immense fire caused rapid evaporation, causing the Blood Sea to recede quickly.


    "Whoosh!"


    "Boom!" The raging fire suddenly condensed into another fireball, another sun.


    The new sun appeared and immediately hurled itself towards a specific spot with a massive explosion, sending towering waves into the sky.


    "Aaah!" A shrill scream echoed from the center of the blood waves.


    As the new sun disappeared, the entire Blood Sea sank by ten feet.


    A yellow-robed corpse suddenly floated to the surface of the Blood Sea.


    "Ren Zun? Ren Zun is dead?" Kong Lietian at Suimo City eximed in shock.


    "There''s no sign of life!" Shenya Daojun squinted his eyes.


    The yellow-robed corpse was swiftly incinerated by the massive mes. However, the Blood Sea did not recede.


    "What''s going on? Why is the Blood Sea still there?" Kong Lietian frowned.


    "The Blood Sea Shura Array, once its master dies, his soul is corrupted by the array, transforming into a Shura within it, ensuring mutual destruction with the enemy. That''s when the array is truly terrifying," Kong Xuan said solemnly.


    "Uh, the person dies, and the array continues?" Kong Lietian was astonished.


    "This is a Feng Shui array, different from ordinary arrays. Many Feng Shui arrays use the dead as their foundation," Kong Xuan exined.


    Ren Zun is dead? Did the array be stronger due to his death?


    Kong Lietian''s subordinates exchanged confused nces but none dared to speak.


    "How long will the arrayst?" Kong Lietian asked.


    "Unless it''s broken, it shouldst seven days. Until the seventh day after his death," Kong Xuan replied gravely.


    "Then we wait for seven days," Kong Lietian said firmly.


    Ren Zun is dead? Zhong Shan, atop Lingxiao Heavenly Court, had a look of disbelief. But the corpse had surfaced and waspletely destroyed by the y Bodhisattva. Could it be false?


    Only the y Bodhisattva would know for sure. He had experienced it firsthand. We''ll wait and see.


    The Blood Sea Shura Array grew even more violent, locked in an unending struggle with the y Bodhisattva''s sun.


    In the southern camp of the Dazhen army.


    Wang Chen had been waiting for a day, his mind racing with countless thoughts, leaving him exhausted.


    With a sense of dread, Wang Chen looked towards Zhong Shan at the West Gate.


    "Roar!" Suddenly, a cheer erupted from the camp. Ren Zun is dead?


    Seeing Ren Zun''s corpse being burned to ashes by the y Bodhisattva, Wang Chen felt a sense of unreality.


    "Ren Zun is dead? Impossible, he still has many trump cards left!" "He possesses the Chaos Bell, and he has transcended the tribtion; he is an Earth Immortal now. How could he possibly be dead?" "Could it be for this reason?"


    Wang Chen''s mind suddenly cleared, as if he had grasped something. He clenched his fists and took a deep look at Zhong Shan in the distance before retreating back into the hall.


    One incense stickter, Yin Luo arrived. After a thorough inspection inside the hall, he frowned deeply.


    As Yin Luo prepared to leave the hall, he suddenly saw Zhong Shan, or rather, Zhong Shan''s avatar, standing at the entrance.


    "Your Majesty, Wang Chen is missing!" Yin Luo immediately reported.


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath, nced around the hall, and sighed slightly. He ignored Yin Luo and disappeared from the hall.


    In a southern valley, Wang Chen left the southern camp, determined his direction, and a blood mark on his forehead began to emit a brilliant blood-red light.


    The blood light enveloped Wang Chen entirely, transforming him into what looked like a massive blood sphere.


    "Blood Light Escape Technique, activate!"


    With a loud shout from within the blood sphere, it shed and vanished into the sky at an astonishing speed.


    After the blood sphere disappeared, Zhong Shan''s avatar suddenly appeared in the valley.


    Watching the blood sphere disappear into the distance, Zhong Shan sighed deeply before stepping away and vanishing into thin air.


    Seven dayster, outside the Longevity Realm.


    In a valley, several temporary pces stood. Each pce housed some powerful beings. Inside one pce, there were three individuals: Shui Jing, Mr. Corpse, and Tian Lao.


    "Mr. Shui Jing, His Majesty has entrusted you with themand of the mission in the Longevity Realm. When shall we begin?" Tian Lao asked.


    "This time is different from thest. Our goals are different, and Kong Xuan will certainly be prepared. His Majesty''s n is to wait until he engages Kong Xuan directly. When Kong Xuan is too upied to split his attention, we will strike. We are the ''weaklings'' that Kong Xuan disregards. Let us, these so-called weaklings, utterly destroy the Longevity Realm," Shui Jing smiled.


    "Then we wait for Yi Yan''s signal," Tian Lao nodded.


    "Indeed."


    At that moment, a red-d woman, Jian Hong, flew over.


    "Sir!" Jian Hong called out.


    "What is it?" Shui Jing frowned.


    "At the entrance of the Longevity Realm, a person has arrived, bearing a mysterious yellow bell on his head. It seems he has ill intentions. Jian Hong did not dare to rm him and came to report," Jian Hong said.


    "A mysterious yellow bell?" Tian Lao raised an eyebrow.


    "Boom!"


    As everyone frowned, a thunderous sound echoed through the sky, causing the valley to shake violently and rocks to copse.


    "The Chaos Bell?" Tian Lao''s eyes lit up.


    The Chaos Bell? The owner of the Chaos Bell has appeared? The group exchanged serious nces and stepped out of the pce.

 Chapter 807: Let鈥檚 Fight!

    <h4>Chapter 807: Let��s Fight!</h4>


    The Chaos Bell?


    "Let''s go and check it out. Leave a few people here to await news from Yi Yan," Shui Jing said.


    The group nodded in agreement.


    "Conceal your presence and disguise the heavenly secrets," Shui Jing instructed before leading the way. Mr. Corpse, Tian Lao, and Jian Hong followed closely behind.


    The four soon reached a valley not far from the Longevity Realm, finding a hidden spot to observe the entrance from a distance.


    "Boom!"


    The terrifying sound of the Chaos Bell echoed, shaking the surrounding space. All the mountains near the Longevity Realm shattered, and the disciples outside were reduced to mere bones.


    In the sky, thousands of miles were cleared of clouds, dissipated by the bell''s resonance.


    At the entrance of the Longevity Realm, a man in a yellow robe floated in the air. His long hair billowed in the wind, a gleam of excitement and madness in his eyes. Above his head was a giant bell, a hundred feet tall, glowing with a mysterious yellow hue and covered in countless runes.


    "What an incredible Chaos Bell!" Shui Jing narrowed his eyes.


    "Ren Zun? Is that Ren Zun?" Tian Lao asked in surprise.


    "Are you sure?" Shui Jing gave Tian Lao a curious look.


    "There''s no mistake. Of the five great Feng Shui masters of Heaven, Earth, Human, God, and Ghost, I''ve met the other four. Ren Zun is the only one I couldn''t see through. He seemed to have extraordinary abilities but always kept a low profile. Even in the rankings of the Five Masters, he never sought topete. I never expected it to be him," Tian Lao said, frowning.


    "Wasn''t he fighting our Dazhen forces at the Two Realms'' Passage? How did he end up here at the Longevity Realm?" Mr. Corpse questioned, frowning.


    "Hees with ill intent," Jian Hong said confidently.


    "This situation is moreplicated than I thought," Shui Jing''s brow furrowed deeply.


    As they whispered among themselves, a figure shrouded in golden light emerged from the entrance of the Longevity Realm.


    Ye Qingcheng stepped forward, holding the Immortal-ying Sword, followed by a group of supreme warriors from the Longevity Realm.


    Someone hade to challenge the Longevity Realm? Who had such audacity?


    Ye Qingcheng was extremely serious. The sound of the Chaos Bell had reached the depths of the Longevity Realm, and upon hearing it, Ye Qingcheng had guessed who it was. It was the same person he had encountered with the purple giant coffin, who had been repelled by the Immortal-ying Flying Dagger.


    And now he was here again? He had been waiting for this opportunity, waiting for the Patriarch and the Realm Lord to leave the Longevity Realm?


    Ye Qingcheng dared not be careless. As he stepped out, he activated the Longevity Realm''s merit power, enveloping himself and greatly enhancing his strength.


    "Ren Zun? Is it you?" Ye Qingcheng eximed in surprise.


    The Chaos Bell? Ren Zun? It was really him?


    Ye Qingcheng had seen Ren Zun before, the Feng Shui master of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty. He had met him more than once. Because of his reclusive nature, Ren Zun had never gained the trust of Shenya Daojun, or rather, Shenya Daojun had always been wary of him. Now it seemed this wariness was justified; Ren Zun was indeed unusual.


    Such formidable strength? And the Chaos Bell?


    "Ye Qingcheng? Step aside. The great powers of the Longevity Realm have all gone to the Two Realms'' Passage. There can''t be more than a handful of Heaven''s Limit experts here," Ren Zun said coldly.


    "Wait, he isn''t Ren Zun!" suddenly eximed a toad-like creature nearby.


    The shout from the toad stunned everyone. Ye Qingcheng and the observers in the distant valley, including Tian Lao and hispanions, were equally surprised. Even Ren Zun, with the Chaos Bell above his head, raised an eyebrow.


    "I''m not Ren Zun?" Ren Zun sneered.


    "You are not Ren Zun. Thousands of years ago, I encountered Ren Zun, and he had a peculiar condition: he couldn''t stand the sound of a bell. When a bell rang, he would go into shock. He never let anyone know this secret, but I witnessed it myself. A powerful individual struck a bell near him, and his internal energy was thrown into chaos, nearly killing him on the spot. Yet, you wield the Chaos Bell. Who are you?" The toad-like creature cried out.


    "You are not Ren Zun? Who are you?" Ye Qingcheng asked sternly.


    "Five thousand years ago, and you, a toad, still remember? Have you always intended to use this secret as leverage against Ren Zun?" Ren Zun''s eyes narrowed.


    "So, you are indeed not Ren Zun. Wait, five thousand years ago, Ren Zun joined the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty. That means the original Ren Zun was already dead, reced by you? You have been plotting against the Longevity Realm for five thousand years?" Ye Qingcheng''s expression changed dramatically.


    "The Saint''s corpse. Do you think you can protect it?" Ren Zun said coldly.


    Ye Qingcheng''s face turned pale with shock. "How do you know? Are you also from the Great Thousand World? Are you a reincarnation? Who are you really?"


    "You wouldn''t recognize the name if I told you. But in this life, I havee to like the title ''Ren Zun.'' I am Ren Zun!" heughed loudly.


    "Boom!"


    The Chaos Bell rang, signaling the start of the battle��


    At the Two Realms'' Passage


    Seven days had passed, and the y Bodhisattva''s One Sun Burning Heaven Array had been entangled with the Blood Sea Shura Array for seven days and nights.


    The Blood Sea Shura Array had grown more ferocious after Ren Zun''s ''death.'' However, after seven days, all the Shuras within had been exterminated, and the Blood Sea had been thoroughly incinerated by the ''sun.'' Finally, after seven days:


    "Boom!"


    The world of the Blood Sea exploded.


    In the first battle, the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty was utterly defeated. Their army of thirty million waspletely annihted.


    Meanwhile, the Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty''s One Sun Burning Heaven Array remained powerful, and the Four Symbols Array was once again deployed.


    The Dazhen army''s morale soared.


    "Roar!"


    "Roar!"


    "Roar!"


    The deafening roars echoed, their immense morale crashing towards Suimo City. The soldiers with lower cultivation levels couldn''t see the Two Realms'' Passage, but they could see the disappearance of the Blood Sea. The victorious roars prated their hearts.


    Morale is infectious. The front-line defeat sent waves of panic among the soldiers near Suimo City.


    "Defeated? Even Ren Zun''s Blood Sea was defeated?"


    "General Wang Chen has defected!"


    "Previously, just one Four Symbols Array was difficult to counter, and now there''s also a ''sun.'' How are we supposed to fight this war?"


    "The Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty is too powerful, and Zhong Shan as well. Even when his cultivation was lower, he caused a sensation in Shenzhou. Now that his cultivation is higher, who can stop him?"


    "I heardst time, Shen Ya Daojun led a group of strong men to besiege Lingxiao Heavenly Court and had to retreat in defeat!"


    "The Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty''s territory seems to be evenrger than ours, the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty!"


    "You have no idea. Do you know what''s beneath the Two Realms'' Passage? It''s the underworld, a vast underworld that has already been unified by the Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty. The scope of their territory is beyond your imagination."


    "What should we do next? Fighting again is certain death!" "I don''t want to die!"


    The Taishui Heavenly Dynasty''s army was in turmoil. The crushing defeat in the first battle,bined with the formidable reputation of Dazhen, weighed heavily on everyone''s minds, making them feel suffocated and unable to breathe.


    Atop the city wall of Suimo City.


    "Your subjects are already frightened, your soldiers are already terrified. Don''t you want to do something about it?" Kong Xuan said with a faint smile.


    "...." Kong Lietian''s face was dark and sullen.


    "The best way, the quickest way to stabilize the army''s morale is a battle between kings. You should fight Zhong Shan! Defeat Zhong Shan!" Kong Xuan said solemnly.


    "Zhong Shan?" Kong Lietian squinted his eyes, looking at Zhong Shan standing at the West Gate of Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "I can tell you still have a supreme treasure, a fragment of the Primordial Saint''s treasure. Do you think there''s any point in hiding it?" Kong Xuan sneered.


    Kong Lietian''s pupils constricted in shock as he looked at Kong Xuan. "You know?"


    "Although it was repaired by Confucius, a broken treasure is still broken. It''s no longer a Saint''s treasure. Do you think I would covet your ck banner? Go ahead!" Kong Xuan shook his head.


    "Yes, Senior!" Kong Lietian nodded and flew into the sky.


    Watching Kong Lietian''s departing figure, Kong Xuan squinted his eyes, clearly not as rxed as his words suggested.


    Kong Lietian soared into the sky, heading towards the center of the battlefield.


    "Look, it''s His Majesty!" "His Majesty is taking action?" "Zhong Shan is no match for His Majesty!"


    The soldiers of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty suddenly saw a glimmer of hope, all eyes turning to Kong Lietian flying towards the battlefield.


    At the West Gate, Zhong Shan also saw a figure flying towards him.


    Kong Lietian? Zhong Shan squinted his eyes slightly.


    Yi Yan swiftly waved his banner, signaling the Dazhen army to halt.


    "Zhong Shan~~~~~~~~!" Kong Lietian shouted. The three armies held their breath.


    "You wish to challenge me?" Zhong Shan suddenly smiled.


    "Do you dare?"


    "The first time, I was inferior to you. The second time, I was still inferior to you. The third time, I was not afraid of you. The fourth time, you couldn''t do anything to me. The fifth time, you were no match for me. This is the sixth time, our sixth head-to-head confrontation. I admire your courage!" Zhong Shanughed heartily.


    Zhong Shan was not ashamed of past failures; he faced them with equanimity. For him, the progression from past defeats to imminent victory turned those failures into medals of honor, badges of triumph.


    People looked at Zhong Shan with admiration. This was how their emperor had risen, step by step, along a legendary path.


    At the same time, no one believed in Kong Lietian''s chances. This was the capital of the Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Here, Zhong Shan could harness the power of the entire Dazhen realm. How could Kong Lietianpete? He had already lost to Zhong Shan in their fifth encounter, and this sixth time, he seemed to be courting death.


    "I ask you, will you fight or not?" Kong Lietian demanded coldly.


    Zhong Shan stared at Kong Lietian, a cold gleam in his eyes.


    "Fight? Why not? This time, I will grind your bones to dust in front of the entire world, to bring peace to Kui''er''s spirit in heaven!"

 Chapter 808: The Black Banner Returns

    <h4>Chapter 808: The ck Banner Returns</h4>


    "Fight? Why not fight? This time, I will crush you to dust in front of the entire world, to bring peace to Kui''er''s spirit in heaven!" Zhong Shan dered loudly.


    "Your Majesty!" The ministers looked at Zhong Shan, indicating that this was not the time to take such a personal risk.


    Zhong Shan shook his head, and the ministers fell silent.


    "Be careful!" Bei Qingsi suddenly said.


    Zhong Shan nced at Bei Qingsi, nodded, and then stepped forward.


    Yi Yan quickly signaled the army to retreat with gmands. The army withdrew, recognizing that this battlefield was now reserved for the duel between their two sovereigns.


    At Suimo City, Kong Xuan observed Zhong Shan stepping forward and narrowed his eyes. "There''s still one more."


    "Ancestor, what do you mean by ''one more''?" Shenya Daojun asked.


    "Another avatar. Zhong Shan never gives his all until the very end!" Kong Xuan said solemnly.


    "Ancestor, when should we take action?" Shenya Daojun asked.


    "Let''s wait and see how far Kong Lietian can push Zhong Shan!" Kong Xuan replied.


    "Yes!"


    The soldiers of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty frowned as they looked into the distance. Those with lower cultivation levels couldn''t see the battlefield clearly; only the stronger ones could glimpse it. Although they hoped their emperor would win, could he really defeat Zhong Shan, especially with the power of the Dazhen realm behind him?


    "General, what do you see? Has His Majesty started fighting Zhong Shan?" "Not yet!" "General, what''s happening now?"


    The soldiers of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty anxiously awaited the oue. The duel between kings was usually the final decisive battle. At this moment, many soldiers realized the importance of this confrontation, suppressing their worries and awaiting the result.


    While the soldiers of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty were anxious, the soldiers of the Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty were much more rxed. They believed in Zhong Shan, revered him, and were confident in his invincibility.


    In the northern valley, Tian Chenzi took a deep breath. "Zhong Shan has finally left Lingxiao Heavenly Court. But we must not act rashly. We must wait until Zhong Shan has no strength left before striking!"


    Tian Chenzi took another deep look at Tian Ling''er.


    Zhong Shan stepped forward, flying to the center of the battlefield and looking at Kong Lietian in the distance.


    At this moment, Kong Lietian held a golden saber, ring coldly at Zhong Shan.


    "Is this necessary? Decades ago, that saber was already useless against me. Bringing it out now, do you want to suffer the same humiliation again?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Kong Lietian''s face darkened. Indeed, he had been defeated here before, and the saber had failed him. Using it again seemed futile, but...


    Just as Kong Lietian was about to speak, Zhong Shan reached out and took out the Fangtian Imperial Seal.


    "My dynasty''s Imperial Seal. What about yours? Is it still damaged fromst time?" Zhong Shan mocked with augh.


    "Is that so? Then let''s test it!" Kong Lietian suddenly let out an evilugh.


    Reaching out, Kong Lietian took out his own Imperial Seal. Unlike before, this seal now shimmered with a rainbow of colors, radiating a powerful and overwhelming aura.


    This is not the same seal as before?


    At Suimo City.


    "Ancestor, didn''t you give Kong Lietian that seal?" Shenya Daojun asked with a frown.


    "Indeed, it is an Imperial Seal from a Holy Court. After the Holy Court was destroyed, it fell into my hands. I refined it into a Heavenly Court''s Imperial Seal. Even though Kong Lietian hasn''t had it for long, it''s far superior to an ordinary Imperial Seal. Zhong Shan''s seal will be shattered!" Kong Xuan said solemnly.


    "Fight? Why not fight? This time, I will crush you to dust in front of the entire world, to bring peace to Kui''er''s spirit in heaven!" Zhong Shan dered loudly.


    "Your Majesty!" The ministers looked at Zhong Shan, indicating that this was not the time to take such a personal risk.


    Zhong Shan shook his head, and the ministers fell silent.


    "Be careful!" Bei Qingsi suddenly said.


    Zhong Shan nced at Bei Qingsi, nodded, and then stepped forward.


    Yi Yan quickly signaled the army to retreat with gmands. The army withdrew, recognizing that this battlefield was now reserved for the duel between their two sovereigns.


    Atop the city wall of Suimo City, Kong Xuan observed Zhong Shan stepping forward and narrowed his eyes. "There''s still one more."


    "Ancestor, what do you mean by ''one more''?" Shenya Daojun asked.


    "Another avatar. Zhong Shan never gives his all until the very end!" Kong Xuan said solemnly.


    "Ancestor, when should we take action?" Shenya Daojun asked.


    "Let''s wait and see how far Kong Lietian can push Zhong Shan!" Kong Xuan replied.


    "Yes!"


    The soldiers of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty frowned as they looked into the distance. Those with lower cultivation levels couldn''t see the battlefield clearly; only the stronger ones could glimpse it. Although they hoped their emperor would win, could he really defeat Zhong Shan, especially with the power of the Dazhen realm behind him?


    "General, what do you see? Has His Majesty started fighting Zhong Shan?" "Not yet!" "General, what''s happening now?"


    The soldiers of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty anxiously awaited the oue. The duel between kings was usually the final decisive battle. At this moment, many soldiers realized the importance of this confrontation, suppressing their worries and awaiting the result.


    While the soldiers of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty were anxious, the soldiers of the Dazhen Heavenly Dynasty were much more rxed. They believed in Zhong Shan, revered him, and were confident in his invincibility.


    In the northern valley, Tian Chenzi took a deep breath. "Zhong Shan has finally left Lingxiao Heavenly Court. But we must not act rashly. We must wait until Zhong Shan has no strength left before striking!"


    Tian Chenzi took another deep look at Tian Ling''er.


    Zhong Shan stepped forward, flying to the center of the battlefield and looking at Kong Lietian in the distance.


    At this moment, Kong Lietian held a golden saber, ring coldly at Zhong Shan.


    "Is this necessary? Decades ago, that saber was already useless against me. Bringing it out now, do you want to suffer the same humiliation again?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Kong Lietian''s face darkened. Indeed, he had been defeated here before, and the saber had failed him. Using it again seemed futile, but...


    Just as Kong Lietian was about to speak, Zhong Shan reached out and took out the Fangtian Imperial Seal.


    "My dynasty''s Imperial Seal. What about yours? Is it still damaged fromst time?" Zhong Shan mocked with augh.


    "Is that so? Then let''s test it!" Kong Lietian suddenly let out an evilugh.


    Reaching out, Kong Lietian took out his own Imperial Seal. Unlike before, this seal now shimmered with a rainbow of colors, radiating a powerful and overwhelming aura.


    "This is not the same seal as before?"


    At Suimo City.


    "Ancestor, didn''t you give Kong Lietian that seal?" Shenya Daojun asked with a frown.


    "Indeed, it is an Imperial Seal from a Holy Court. After the Holy Court was destroyed, it fell into my hands. I refined it into a Heavenly Court''s Imperial Seal. Even though Kong Lietian hasn''t had it for long, it''s far superior to an ordinary Imperial Seal. Zhong Shan''s seal will be shattered!" Kong Xuan said solemnly.


    Chapter 809: The sh of Seals


    "Grow~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Kong Lietian shouted. The rainbow-colored Imperial Seal in his hand expanded to a size of ten thousand miles, like a colossal seal, covering the sky and exuding an overwhelming aura.


    "How huge!"


    Everyone who saw the Imperial Seal was shocked. ording to historical records, thergest Heavenly Court''s Imperial Seal was only ten thousand feet, and therger it was, the more its power dispersed. But this Imperial Seal was ten thousand miles wide?


    Everyone was stunned. Even those with lower cultivation levels in Suimo City could see the distant seal.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold. He threw his Fangtian Imperial Seal into the air.


    "Grow~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Zhong Shan shouted. The Fangtian Imperial Seal expanded terrifyingly, bing another colossal seal, also ten thousand miles wide.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s seal, Kong Lietian''s face changed, and even Kong Xuan in the distance narrowed his eyes.


    "Grow~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Zhong Shan shouted again. The Fangtian Imperial Seal grew evenrger, now about twelve thousand miles wide. Everyone swallowed hard. Was this an illusion?


    "Go!" Zhong Shan shouted, sending the Fangtian Imperial Seal crashing down.


    "Go!" Kong Lietian shouted in panic, sending his Imperial Seal to sh with Zhong Shan''s.


    There was no finesse, just like two people throwing bricks at each other, except these bricks were enormous.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The terrifying collision of the two colossal seals caused a massive shockwave, making everyone''s heart skip a beat.


    The space around the seals trembled violently, the ground shook, and it seemed like the heavens and earth were quaking.


    At the point of collision, a massive ck hole appeared, engulfing the area of impact.


    The surrounding soldiers retreated repeatedly due to the spatial tremors. Only the true experts watched the ck hole without blinking.


    Ten breaths passed, and the ck hole remained, with the two seals still pressed against each other.


    Kong Lietian''s face was extremely grim, while Zhong Shan wore a sinister smile. With a wave of his hand, the Fangtian Imperial Seal shrank and returned to him, which he then put away.


    Did Zhong Shan lose? People were shocked at the sight.


    In the sky, only Kong Lietian''s Imperial Seal remained, the ck hole slowly dissipating, revealing the mighty seal.


    But as the ck hole disappeared, everyone saw a crack appear on the rainbow-colored Imperial Seal.


    "Crack, crack, crack..."


    The crack spread, emitting numerous cracking sounds, and in an instant, the seal was covered in spider-web-like cracks.


    Cracks? Endless cracks? The rainbow-colored Imperial Seal was on the verge of copse?


    Kong Lietian waved his hand, and the rainbow-colored Imperial Seal shrank back to a manageable size andnded in his palm. But at this moment, the Imperial Seal could not withstand even the slightest collision. Any further impact would shatter itpletely.


    Kong Lietian felt a surge of bitterness. Zhong Shan was so deceitful! A fraud! The Holy Court''s Imperial Seal, reduced to this state in an instant��it was intentional. He tricked me into using this treasure.


    "Ancestor, why did this happen? Isn''t that the Holy Court''s Imperial Seal? It should be the sturdiest among all the seals in this realm. Why was it shattered by Zhong Shan''s seal? Why?" Shenya Daojun asked, frowning.


    Kong Xuan squinted into the distance, his expression gradually growing serious. "The Holy Court''s Imperial Seal is indeed the sturdiest in this realm. But the Holy Court is destroyed, its destiny depleted. The seal, once filled with boundless destiny, is now exhausted. Even though it remains incredibly sturdy, breaking a seal devoid of destiny in one blow means that Zhong Shan''s seal must also contain destiny. Zhong Shan has somehow infused his seal with destiny. How extraordinary."


    "Destiny? Again with destiny! Is it really that important?" Shenya Daojun furrowed his brow deeply.


    "Destiny is crucial. For a spiritual object, destiny is everything. With destiny, even the heavens will favor you. Without it, the heavens will abandon you, leaving you as a mere lifeless object," Kong Xuan exined gravely.


    "Destiny is everything?"


    "Every living being, every dead soul, as long as they exist, have their own destiny. It''s a gift from the heavens. You might not be able to perceive your own destiny, but it exists within your fate. The stronger your destiny, the smoother your life will be, with heavenly protection. In equal battles, those with stronger destiny will always win. Few can perceive this and find ways to umte destiny. The Holy Court''s Imperial Seal was devoid of destiny, hence it could not withstand Zhong Shan''s seal, which was imbued with destiny!" Kong Xuan exined.


    As he spoke, Kong Xuan''s expression grew more serious. He realized Zhong Shan had too many secrets. Or rather, in the decades since theirst battle, Zhong Shan had grown powerful enough to condense destiny into his seal. It was incredible.


    On the Battlefield


    "You''re weak, Kong Lietian. You''ve disappointed me," Zhong Shan shook his head, continuing his taunts.


    Zhong Shan''s relentless mockery was pushing Kong Lietian to his limit.


    "You!" Kong Lietian red at Zhong Shan with intense anger.


    "You''vee to this?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Hmph, you''re courting death!" Kong Lietian snarled.


    "We''ll see who is courting death!"


    Kong Lietian''s face darkened. Being humiliated in front of everyone was unbearable. This ant he could have crushed years ago was now standing proudly before him. Adding to his frustration, he had been tricked into using and subsequently breaking his hard-won Holy Court''s Imperial Seal.


    At this moment, Kong Lietian decided to stop holding back.


    With a wave of his hand, ck gas began to billow from his palm, enveloping it. Within the ck gas, a small triangr ck banner slowly emerged.


    In the distance, Zhong Shan''s expression became stern, and his pupils contracted as he saw the banner in Kong Lietian''s palm. There it was, the ck banner. All the previous humiliations were to force this banner out. If it weren''t for this banner, Zhong Shan would have severely injured Kong Lietian long ago.


    The ck banner? Yes, that ck banner!


    Seeing the small ck banner, Zhong Shan''s eyes gradually turned red. There were no tears, only a profound sadness. Kui''er, it was this ck banner that killed you. Are you still there? Could your soul still exist?

 Chapter 809: The Primeval Banner

    <h4>Chapter 809: The Primeval Banner</h4>


    ck Qi surged in Kong Lietian''s palm, and a small banner fully emerged. During this period, Zhong Shan did notunch a sneak attack but watched intently, his eyes turning red, reminiscent of the scene when Kui''er died. A single belief filled Zhong Shan''s heart: Kui''er, you were killed by this ck banner. Are you still here? Could your soul still exist?


    Zhong Shan dared not harbor too much hope, for he knew that the greater the hope, the greater the disappointment. In his heart, Kui''er was perfect, even in death. If she existed, it would be a blessing; if not, he should not be too disappointed. However, this mindset did not apply to the current Zhong Shan. For the things he fought for, the positions he strove for, such a mindset was eptable. But for emotions, it was not. To not be disappointed if she did not exist? Pure nonsense.


    Zhong Shan did not dare to indulge in illusions. He only remembered Kui''er''s perfection and sought the truth. He just wanted to understand!


    Kong Lietian''s small banner was now out. It was a pitch-ck triangle, shrouded in an immense amount of ck Qi, appearing extremely malevolent.


    With a flick of his wrist, Kong Lietian threw the ck banner into the air. It swelled against the wind, growingrger andrger, terrifyingly expanding until it was a million miles wide in the blink of an eye. If the previous Jade Seal could cover the sky, this banner could nket the heavens.


    The entire sky seemed to be covered.


    How vast was a million miles? The Jade Seal of twelve thousand miles,parable in size to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, was dwarfed by the banner, which was dozens of timesrger. The sky was pressed down, and to the soldiers standing on the outskirts, the scene under the banner was as dark as a deep night. Outside the banner, it was daytime, but under the banner, it was night. Moreover, the banner emanated countless ghostly wails and wolf howls.


    "Ga-ga-ga����������������������������������������!" "Roar��������������������������������������������!" "Woo��������������������������������������!" "Heh-heh����������������������������������������!"


    The chaotic noise was terrifying and extremely eerie.


    A vast amount of ck Qi billowed out from the banner. On the surface of the banner, it seemed as if countless evil spirits were tumbling in the ck Qi, their icy shadows struggling to break free. The ghostly wails and wolf howls wereing from them.


    Ghosts, endless ghosts, countless evil spirits?


    "What kind of banner is this?" Zhong Shan asked in a deep voice.


    "The Primeval Banner!" Kong Lietian replied coldly.


    "Primeval? The treasure of the Primeval Sage?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    "You know about this?" Kong Lietian''s eyelids twitched.


    At the end-of-the-year city.


    Daoist Shen Crow stared wide-eyed at the scene. The Primeval Banner? It was too vast, too terrifying, with a formidable aura and countless evil spirits. Each of those spirits seemed incredibly powerful to him.


    "Ancestor, is this a fragment of the Primeval Sage''s treasure?" Daoist Shen Crow asked in astonishment.


    "The Taiji Diagram shattered, the Mountains and Rivers Diagram shattered, the Four Immortal Execution Swords shattered. The Primeval old man''s treasure is the most intact, the least damaged. Though broken, its former power gone, with Kong Qiu''s patching, its power has risen again. What a pity!" Kong Xuan shook his head.


    "What a pity?" Daoist Shen Crow asked.


    "Pity for Kong Lietian. Such a precious treasure, yet he has only refined a tiny part of it. Just a bit of refining. He can''t fully unleash the immense power of this banner. What a pity!" Kong Xuan shook his head.


    "Ancestor means that even this ck banner can''t defeat Zhong Shan?"


    "It might not be certain. The ck banner is ultimately a treasure of the Sage, though damaged, it is rtively well-preserved. Moreover, it has been refined by Kong Qiu using Sage power, so its might should be unparalleled! Zhong Shan defeating Kong Lietian will not be easy!" Kong Xuan said in a solemn tone.


    "Indeed!"


    At this moment, the emergence of the ck banner swept across all directions with an overwhelming momentum. The worried expressions of the soldiers of the Taishang Dynasty immediately turned to joy, as if this imposing sight had injected a strong dose of confidence into everyone. On the other hand, the army of the Great Zheng Dynasty appeared slightly more serious.


    At the West Gate, everyone waited patiently, the women supporting each other with evident concern. In the distance, Tian Chenzi looked on in astonishment.


    "The ck banner? It''s too terrifying. How can this small world have so many monsters?" Tian Chenzi muttered to himself.


    Under the ck banner, Zhong Shan and Kong Lietian stood in a standoff.


    At this moment, Kong Lietian''s lips curved into a sinister smile. With a wave of his hand, a pitch-ck Asura suddenly descended from the ck banner above.


    The Asura wielded a Fangtian Halberd, emitting a dense ck aura and a chilling presence. As the Fangtian Halberd swung, the surrounding space shattered.


    A formidable Asura.


    "Asura King?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Kill!" Kong Lietianmanded coldly.


    With a shout, the pitch-ck Asura King brandished the Fangtian Halberd and charged toward Zhong Shan.


    "Celestial Edict! Three Thousand Waves!"


    Zhong Shan swung his de, shing fiercely with the Fangtian Halberd of the pitch-ck Asura King.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������������������!"


    The powerful collision shattered the space, as the Fangtian Halberd and the Nightmare de met in a forceful impact, neither side gaining the upper hand.


    "Boom��������Boom��������Boom������������Boom��������������!"


    The pitch-ck Asura King, relentless and tireless, collided with Zhong Shan repeatedly.


    "sh����������������������������������������������������!"


    An hourter, with a mighty roar, Zhong Shan finally found a slight opening in the Asura King''s defenses and shed at its wrist, causing the Fangtian Halberd to fall. Zhong Shan had won, but there was no scene of blood and gore.


    "Poof��������������������������������������!"


    The Asura King dissipated into ck smoke, as if it had merely been an energy construct. A bead of cold sweat appeared on Zhong Shan''s forehead.


    "Impressive, but what a pity!" Kong Lietian sneered.


    With another wave of Kong Lietian''s hand, a hundred more figures appeared from the ck banner, all pitch-ck. Thirty were in the form of Asuras, others were skeletal or humanoid, but all were pitch-ck.


    Another hundred? Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Ga-ga-ga������������������������������!" "Woo-woo-woo��������������������������������!"


    The cacophony of ghostly wails and wolf howls from the ck banner indicated that there were still endless evil spirits within, much like the previous Asura. It seemed as if there were no end to them.


    "No one has ever survived under the Primeval Banner!" Kong Lietian said with a sinister smile.


    "People of the Great Zheng Dynasty, hear mymand! Raise your right hand and lend me your strength!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    At this moment, above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the divine figure of Zhong Shan in the sea of fortune clouds also spoke the same words. The eerie voice seemed to transcend the bounds of space, instantly reaching the ears of all the people of the Great Zheng Dynasty in the mortal world.


    "A final battle? The emperor needs our strength?" "Raise your right hand!" "Assist the emperor!"


    The citizens of the Great Zheng Dynasty raised their right arms one after another, and suddenly, their bodies felt drained, as if their strength had been sucked away.


    Massive amounts of power gathered in the sea of fortune clouds and then transferred to Zhong Shan. His body swelled with this enormous energy, forming a terrifying energy storm around him.


    As a hundred evil spirits charged forward, a fierce glint shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes. He threw a punch.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������������������!"


    More than ten of the hundred evil spirits were shattered on the spot, and the rest were punched back into the ck banner above. One punch sent them back inside.


    The overwhelming power, the might of the entire Great Zheng Dynasty, was now channeled through Zhong Shan, boosting his strength to an extreme. Despite the myriad of evil spirits, Zhong Shan remained unafraid.


    "Is that all you''ve got?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "People of the Taishang Dynasty, heed mymand!" Kong Lietian suddenly shouted.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was startled. So were the powerful figures around. What was Kong Lietian doing? This wasn''t the capital; how could he draw on the power of the Taishang Dynasty here?


    "During the decisive battle between Taishang and Great Zheng, raise your right hand and help me fight the enemy!" Kong Lietianmanded.


    At this moment, in an eerie turn of events, Kong Lietian''s divine figure also spoke these words in the Taishang Dynasty''s capital, and inexplicably, all the citizens of Taishang Dynasty heard it.


    Countless citizens of the Taishang Dynasty raised their right hands, and endless power converged in the capital, then mysteriously vanished.


    At the battlefield, the Primeval Banner suddenly trembled, and a vast amount of golden energy rushed down from it, infusing Kong Lietian''s body.


    "A Sage''s treasure can actually have such an effect?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    The immense energy filled Kong Lietian''s body, and he too was enveloped by an energy storm.


    "Now, we are equal again. Let''s see how much strength you have left!" Kong Lietian suddenly wielded arge sword.


    Thousands of powerful, invincible evil spirits descended from the ck banner, all ring fiercely at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan stood resolutely, showing no fear, for his second goal had also been achieved.


    Earlier, when a hundred evil spirits surrounded Zhong Shan and he punched them back into the ck banner, an additional figure slipped in among the evil spirits. This figure entered the ck banner along with the others.


    Zhong Shan''s shadow clone.


    The shadow clone, following the evil spirits into the ck banner, found itself in a different world the moment it touched the banner.


    This world had no sun or moon but was dimly lit, with an extremely dense Yin aura, far more intense than the Netherworld. There were ck mountains, ck waters, and countless wandering ghosts in this eerie world. It was a brutal world, filled with endless ughter, with innumerable evil spirits tearing each other apart and devouring one another. It was utterly horrifying.


    So, this is the inside of the Primeval Banner? The internal world of the Primeval Banner?


    The shadow clone flickered, splitting into ten shadow clones, each shooting off in different directions.

 Chapter 810: The Defeat of Kong Lietian

    <h4>Chapter 810: The Defeat of Kong Lietian</h4>


    Zhong Shan''s ten shadow clones shot off in ten different directions within the Primeval Banner. This was an eerie world, filled with endless evil spirits of unknown origin. It wasn''t easy for the shadow clones to explore.


    Fortunately, one of the shadow clones quickly discovered something unusual.


    Rushing towards a specific direction at an extraordinary speed, the shadow clone encountered several powerful evil spirits along the way, but none could touch Zhong Shan.


    Eventually, it found a strange ce.


    A forest of swords, or rather, a massive sword graveyard.


    The ground was filled with swords of various kinds, all exuding a heavy, murky aura. Numerous evil spirits flew out from this vast sword graveyard, scattering in all directions.


    Cautiously, Zhong Shan moved deeper.


    Soon, he reached the center, where a giant throne stood on a high tform. On this throne sat an Asura-like evil spirit, simr to the ck Asura King Zhong Shan had fought earlier.


    Below, countless evil spirit guards stared greedily at the throne but seemed to fear the evil spirit king seated there.


    There was arge pool below, filled with pitch-ck water. Numerous weak ck ghosts crawled out of the pool, as if most of the evil spirits in this world were born from it.


    As soon as a new batch of evil spirits emerged, they were inhaled by the evil spirit king on the throne, with the majority consumed by him and a small portion going to the evil spirit guards.


    Dominating this ck pool, the evil spirit king continually devoured the spirits.


    Zhong Shan''s arrival immediately drew the attention of the evil spirits, who all red at him with red eyes.


    Without the need for the evil spirit king to speak, the evil spirit guards swarmed towards Zhong Shan.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������������������!"


    Zhong Shan shed with an evil spirit guard, shattering it with a palm strike, but he was surprised to find that these guards'' strength was at the level of an emperor.


    He dodged the other evil spirit guards with a flicker of his body.


    "Hmph!" the evil spirit king snorted coldly.


    Wielding the Fangtian Halberd, a terrifying force swept towards Zhong Shan. This evil spirit king was simr to the Asura King encountered outside but seemed to have his power amplified in this world, pressing down on Zhong Shan with overwhelming force.


    The space here was more stable; such a strike didn''t even tear it apart.


    Zhong Shan''s heart tightened. He didn''t dare be careless. His pupils contracted as he activated the Eyes of Reincarnation.


    With great effort, Zhong Shan opened the Reincarnation Passage.


    "Boom!"


    The evil spirit king was sucked in, struggling and ultimately ground to dust.


    The remaining evil spirit guards, seeing the death of their king, scattered in all directions.


    Zhong Shan frowned, contemting the scene. Opening the Reincarnation Passage in this world was incredibly difficult. The energy required here was a hundred times more than outside, and thews of this world were bizarre. The reincarnation principles he had previouslyprehended were useless here. Just now, he had to forcefully gather reincarnation power to open the passage. Why was this?


    There were no reincarnation tracks, no reincarnationws, no reincarnation rules.


    Zhong Shan hadn''t yet realized the astonishing discovery he had made.


    Even back in the days when Sage Kong obtained the ck banner, his Sage power couldn''t detect any trace of reincarnation within it��no tracks, nows, no rules, and certainly no reincarnation power. Yet Zhong Shan, through his Eyes of Reincarnation, managed to gather reincarnation power in this world. Could there truly be reincarnation power here?


    Zhong Shan, filled with doubt, quickly examined his surroundings. However, given his current knowledge, he found nothing conclusive. Meanwhile, another shadow clone discovered a simr sword graveyard filled with ghostly spirits.


    In this vast and boundless world, the shadow clones couldn''tst for long. Five of them sought the boundary at top speed, but even after a day, there was no end in sight��the world within the ck banner was far too immense.


    The shadow clones gradually dissipated, unable to persist. They had not uncovered anything significant, only a general outline of the Primeval Banner''s internal world. Kui''er''s whereabouts remained a mystery. To understand fully, Zhong Shan knew he needed to acquire and study the Primeval Banner thoroughly.


    While the shadow clones came up empty, Zhong Shan''s main body triumphed decisively against Kong Lietian. The power of the Great Zheng Dynasty shed with the power of the Taishang Dynasty.


    Zhong Shan had put away hisrge de and was now engaging Kong Lietian with his Heaven-Opening Twin Palms. Though it seemed like a reckless move, Zhong Shan''s palms were overwhelmingly powerful, deadly to any evil spirits they touched. When Kong Lietian''s Fangtian Halberd struck Zhong Shan, he simply snapped it in half.


    Kong Lietian''srge sword had already been destroyed by Zhong Shan''s Twin Palms. The sheer physical strength of Zhong Shan left countless strong fighters in awe.


    "Ancestor, why is Zhong Shan''s physical body so resilient? Even with immense fortune on his side, this is too exaggerated. Weapons strike him, and his skin doesn''t even tear. Why is this?" Daoist Shen Crow frowned.


    Kong Xuan didn''t answer but kept his gaze fixed on the massive ck hole beneath the ck banner.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan was inside the ck hole, battling Kong Lietian.


    Calling it a battle was an understatement��it was more of a one-sided torture. Zhong Shan''s palms embodied a force of destruction, capable of breaking through anything. Despite Kong Lietian wearing an immortal armor beneath his clothes, it was useless against Zhong Shan''s Heaven-Opening Palms.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������������������!"


    A punch struck Kong Lietian''s right leg, shattering the armor and leaving the leg a bloody mess. Blood sttered across Zhong Shan''s face, fueling his rage and madness.


    "This punch is for Kui''er!" Zhong Shan roared.


    "Ah������������������������������������������������!"


    Kong Lietian screamed in agony. Losing his right leg, he howled in pain.


    "This punch is also for Kui''er!" Zhong Shan shouted again.


    Another punch exploded Kong Lietian''s left leg.


    "You won''t die so easily. Kui''er''s revenge needs your soul for atonement!" Zhong Shan shouted ruthlessly.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan seemed like a different person��violent, merciless, and raging. Kong Lietian, the Prince of Lietian, was now nothing more than a helpless pig waiting for ughter in Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    Zhong Shan''s ruthless killing appeared to be the only way to vent his inner madness. Kong Lietian no longer felt regret, only terror��an endless, overwhelming fear. Zhong Shan was a demon, an absolute nightmare.


    The proud scion of the Kong family, could he really die at the hands of this savage from a small thousand-world?


    "No������������������������������!" "Kong Xuan, save me������������������������������������������������!"


    Kong Lietian howled, but Kong Xuan did not appear.


    "Kong Xuan, Kong Xuan������������������������������������������!" "It''s useless, die!" Zhong Shan struck out with another palm.


    Kong Xuan didn''te to save Kong Lietian, and Kong Lietian realized he had been yed. His eyes filled with hate and anger.


    As Zhong Shan''s palm struck again, a look of resolve shed in Kong Lietian''s eyes, and the crack on his forehead reopened.


    "It''s useless. Borrowing the power of the entire Great Zheng, your Three-Colored Divine Light can''t harm me!" Zhong Shan''s palm continued its trajectory.


    "Yin������������������������������������������������!"


    With the call of a peacock, a five-colored divine light shot out from the crack on Kong Lietian''s forehead, not the usual three colors, but five, heading straight for Zhong Shan''s forehead.


    In ast-moment decision, Zhong Shan dodged.


    At that instant, a green light burst from the crack on Kong Lietian''s forehead.


    A gigantic peacock''s shadow appeared.


    Zhong Shan''s expression changed as Kong Lietian''s body exploded.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������������������!"


    The powerful self-detonation sted Zhong Shan back a thousand feet.


    Kong Lietian had self-detonated, but what was the peacock shadow that emerged from his forehead? His soul?


    The peacock soul spread its wings and shot away rapidly. The Primeval Banner in the sky shrank quickly, wrapping around the soul of Kong Lietian.


    Kong Lietian was trying to escape with the Primeval Banner?


    Zhong Shan''s expression changed, and he reached out toward the sky.


    "ng������������������������������������������������!"


    Zhong Shan was suddenly blocked by a golden light between him and the Primeval Banner.


    Kong Xuan had arrived in front of Zhong Shan.


    The Primeval Banner shrank into a small g, wrapping around Kong Lietian''s soul.


    At that moment, Daoist Shen Crow appeared in front of Kong Lietian, seemingly intent on snatching the Primeval Banner.


    Kong Lietian''s soul paled. The ck banner emitted arge amount of ck Qi and suddenly vanished before everyone''s eyes, disappearing into thin air.


    The ck banner had escaped with Kong Lietian''s soul. But where did it go?


    Twenty breathster, in the Taishang Dynasty''s capital.


    In Kong Lietian''s training room, ck Qi suddenly filled the air, and the space trembled. Then, with a sh, the ck banner appeared.


    The ck banner had brought Kong Lietian back to the capital. The Sage''s treasure was indeed mysterious, able to cross space and return!


    In the training room, there was another person��Sekong. Sekong sat cross-legged, as if waiting for something.


    "Sekong, quickly, give me the ''Kong n Escape Talisman''. Kong Xuan, that treacherous man, wants to seize my Primeval Banner. And that scoundrel Daoist Shen Crow, quickly, give me the talisman so I can return to the Great Thousand World and to the Kong family. I must report to my father. I will bring powerful warriors to bloodily massacre this small world!" Kong Lietian''s soul roared.


    "The Kong n Escape Talisman? Master, wasn''t that talisman given to me for my use? So I could report to the Kong family if needed? Also, how did you end up like this?" Sekong suddenly smiled wickedly.


    Kong Lietian raised his head abruptly, looking at Sekong in astonishment. Something felt off about Sekong''s tone��something was wrong.

 Chapter 811: The Mythical Beast

    <h4>Chapter 811: The Mythical Beast</h4>


    "Kong Lietian, what are you doing?" Kong Lietian screamed in shock.


    Betrayed by Wang Chen, humiliated by Zhong Shan, yed by Kong Xuan, and targeted by Daoist Shen Crow, Kong Lietian found himself utterly defeated in the twenty breaths since the Primeval Banner brought him back.


    Kong Lietian realized how deeply he had failed. Why had everything turned out this way? Why had everyone he "trusted" betrayed him? What had he done wrong to deserve this?


    In Kong Lietian''s twisted mind, he believed in trust. But in reality, Wang Chen was merely a pawn, Daoist Shen Crow an ally, and Kong Xuan a senior. There was no friendship, loyalty, or affection among them.


    How could they support him unconditionally?


    Kong Lietian couldn''t understand this. To him, the world had suddenly be unrecognizable. Everyone had betrayed him! Everyone!


    But the most unexpected betrayal came from Sekong, who had always appeared timid and cowardly. Kong Lietian''s soul scanned the hall, noticing that it was filled with arrays.


    "You... you''re betraying me too?" Kong Lietian screamed in disbelief.


    Sekong smiled wickedly, "It''s not betrayal; I''ve never been loyal to you."


    "Ha ha ha ha, I can''t believe that after thousands of years of madness in this small world, not a single person is loyal to me!" Kong Lietianughed bitterly.


    "You''re wrong. There were people loyal to you, but you abandoned them! More than one!" Sekong shook his head.


    "What are you talking about?" Disbelief shed in Kong Lietian''s eyes.


    "The Emperor of Da Jin, the one who controlled the Demon Legion in the northeast of Shenzhou for you, the one who refined the Ming Yuan Pills, your ''junior uncle.'' Oh, right, those Ming Yuan Pills were rumored by Zhong Shan to be ''immortality elixirs,'' causing chaos in the Da Li Dynasty. But that ''junior uncle'' was extremely loyal to you. The Demon Legion was ughtered by sects from all directions, surrounded by crises, and he willinglymitted atrocities for you. He was loyal to you, very loyal. But what happened? He was only at the Royal Extreme Realm, without strength, wisdom, or special abilities, just loyalty. You looked down on him and didn''t assign any strong protectors to him. You abandoned him," Sekong shook his head.


    "Him? The Emperor of Da Jin?"


    "I bet you''ve forgotten his name by now. There were many like him, whom you sent as ''foolish cannon fodder'' to die at the hands of other forces in exchange for ''benefits.'' They were your most precious assets because they were willing to die for you. How many fools are there in the world? They were ''foolish cannon fodder'' because they were loyal to you, willing to die for you, but you discarded them like old shoes. Who''s to me?" Sekong mocked.


    "Why... why didn''t you tell me this then?" Kong Lietian regretted.


    "I''m not a loyal minister. Why should I tell you? I''ve been waiting for this day for a long time. I anticipated this oue before your expedition. This setup is specifically for you!" Sekong grinned evilly.


    "What do you want? Are you trying to oppose the Kong family? Do you know the consequences of going against me? Aren''t you afraid of the Kong family hunting you down if you kill me?" Kong Lietian shouted in horror.


    "Your death has nothing to do with me. I will soon go to the Kong family and shift the me for your death to the recent battle. The ''culprit'' isn''t my concern!" Sekong approached step by step.


    "The Kong family? You kill me and still want to go to the Kong family?" Kong Lietian retreated, but the array behind him shed, bouncing him back.


    "What are you doing, Sekong?" Kong Lietian screamed.


    Betrayed by Wang Chen, humiliated by Zhong Shan, yed by Kong Xuan, and targeted by Daoist Shen Crow, Kong Lietian felt utterly defeated in the brief twenty breaths since the Primeval Banner brought him back.


    Kong Lietian realized how deeply he had failed. Why had everything turned out this way? Why had everyone he "trusted" betrayed him? What had he done wrong to deserve this?


    In Kong Lietian''s twisted mind, he believed in trust. But in reality, Wang Chen was merely a pawn, Daoist Shen Crow an ally, and Kong Xuan a senior. There was no friendship, loyalty, or affection among them.


    How could they support him unconditionally?


    Kong Lietian couldn''t understand this. To him, the world had suddenly be unrecognizable. Everyone had betrayed him! Everyone!


    But the most unexpected betrayal came from Sekong, who had always appeared timid and cowardly. Kong Lietian''s soul scanned the hall, noticing that it was filled with arrays.


    "You... you''re betraying me too?" Kong Lietian screamed in disbelief.


    Sekong smiled wickedly, "It''s not betrayal; I''ve never been loyal to you."


    "Ha ha ha ha, I can''t believe that after thousands of years of madness in this small world, not a single person is loyal to me!" Kong Lietianughed bitterly.


    "You''re wrong. There were people loyal to you, but you abandoned them! More than one!" Sekong shook his head.


    "What are you talking about?" Disbelief shed in Kong Lietian''s eyes.


    "The Emperor of Da Jin, the one who controlled the Demon Legion in the northeast of Shenzhou for you, the one who refined the Ming Yuan Pills, your ''junior uncle.'' Oh, right, those Ming Yuan Pills were rumored by Zhong Shan to be ''immortality elixirs,'' causing chaos in the Da Li Dynasty. But that ''junior uncle'' was extremely loyal to you. The Demon Legion was ughtered by sects from all directions, surrounded by crises, and he willinglymitted atrocities for you. He was loyal to you, very loyal. But what happened? He was only at the Royal Extreme Realm, without strength, wisdom, or special abilities, just loyalty. You looked down on him and didn''t assign any strong protectors to him. You abandoned him," Sekong shook his head.


    "Him? The Emperor of Da Jin?"


    "I bet you''ve forgotten his name by now. There were many like him, whom you sent as ''foolish cannon fodder'' to die at the hands of other forces in exchange for ''benefits.'' They were your most precious assets because they were willing to die for you. How many fools are there in the world? They were ''foolish cannon fodder'' because they were loyal to you, willing to die for you, but you discarded them like old shoes. Who''s to me?" Sekong mocked.


    "Why... why didn''t you tell me this then?" Kong Lietian regretted.


    "I''m not a loyal minister. Why should I tell you? I''ve been waiting for this day for a long time. I anticipated this oue before your expedition. This setup is specifically for you!" Sekong grinned evilly.


    "What do you want? Are you trying to oppose the Kong family? Do you know the consequences of going against me? Aren''t you afraid of the Kong family hunting you down if you kill me?" Kong Lietian shouted in horror.


    "Your death has nothing to do with me. I will soon go to the Kong family and shift the me for your death to the recent battle. The ''culprit'' isn''t my concern!" Sekong approached step by step.


    "The Kong family? You kill me and still want to go to the Kong family?" Kong Lietian retreated, but the array behind him shed, bouncing him back.


    "What if I devour your soul and simte the soul of the Peacock n? I suffer a bit, but if I im to be your descendant in this world, will the Kong family ept me?" Sekong smirked wickedly.


    "My descendant? You dream of being my son!"


    "The whole world knows you favor me. What can''t be epted about this? Once you''re dead, isn''t it all up to my word?" Sekong continued to approach.


    "No, impossible! Simte? You''re not from the Peacock n; how can you simte it?" Kong Lietian screamed.


    Having consumed most of his soul energy crossing space, Kong Lietian had little power left. But in a final struggle, the Primeval Banner''s ck aura surged.


    "Snap!" Sekong grabbed the Primeval Banner, his hands glowing with purple light.


    "Simte? I can simte the origin of all things. No one can tell, not even a Sage." Sekong said.


    As he spoke, Sekong''s head suddenly swelled grotesquely, his eyes bulging, and his face turning into a disgusting, writhing mass, resembling a giant worm''s head��his true, hideous form.


    "A Chuyan? A mythical beast Chuyan with eyes? Impossible! There hasn''t been a Chuyan beast in millions of years, and you are one...!"


    Sekong''s mouth generated immense suction, and with one hand gripping the Primeval Banner, he directed the suction straight at Kong Lietian.


    The suction was too powerful for Kong Lietian to resist. He screamed in terror.


    The suction was overwhelming. Kong Lietian couldn''t withstand it. "No, no! I am not willing, not willing��������������������������������������!"


    Kong Lietian screamed in anguish, but utterly powerless, he couldn''t resist. A once-dominant figure, now tragically dying in the mouth of this seemingly insignificant person.


    It was too unjust!


    Swallowing Kong Lietian''s soul, Sekong''s body radiated a vast amount of purple light. His grotesque worm head rapidly transformed, bing a peacock''s head, bearing an eight-tenths resemnce to Kong Lietian.


    Shaking his head, Sekong transformed back into the bald monk''s appearance.


    In high spirits, Sekong looked at the Primeval Banner in his hand.


    "What a waste, such a treasure, and he couldn''t refine it! This ce is no longer safe. I must refine this treasure quickly and leave this world!" Sekong muttered.


    At that moment, sounds of the hall being attacked came from outside.


    Sekong''s eyes narrowed, "A mantis stalking the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind? Someone''s trying to trap me too?"


    No time to refine the Primeval Banner, Sekong swallowed it and quickly retrieved a purple jade talisman��the Kong n Talisman��ready to transport him to the Kong family''s headquarters in the Great Thousand World.


    At the battlefield.


    "Damn it������������������������������������������������!"


    Zhong Shan roared with bloodshot eyes. He was so close to defeating Kong Lietian, so close to seizing the Primeval Banner, but in the end, he failed.


    "Ah������������������������������������������������!"


    Zhong Shan roared in frustration.


    Kong Xuan blocked Zhong Shan. Daoist Shen Crow surrounded him, and eight more strong figures flew in, each evidently a Heaven Extreme Realm expert.


    The longevity world had pulled out all the stops, clearly intending to kill Zhong Shan.


    Moreover, the most troubling thing for Zhong Shan was the golden light that had blocked him from retrieving the Primeval Banner��the enormous presence within that light.


    A massive golden Dharma body appeared, seemingly made of pure gold. This Dharma body resembled Kong Xuan, but with a third eye on its forehead. More strikingly, it had eighteen arms, each holding a different magical treasure. Water, fire, thunder, and lightning swirled around, indicating an array of powerful attributes.


    Zhong Shan suppressed his rage, focusing on Kong Xuan and the eighteen-armed, three-eyed golden Dharma body before him.


    "Zhunti Dharma Body? Did Sage Zhunti pass it down to you?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, memories flooding his mind.


    Sage Zhunti, a legendary figure whose tales Zhong Shan had heard in his youth. He had even seen a sculpture of the Zhunti Dharma Body in a temple on Earth, with eighteen arms and three eyes.


    Had Zhunti taught Kong Xuan the method to cultivate this Dharma Body?


    Zhong Shan stood on high alert. Meanwhile, several powerful figures from the Lingxiao Heavenly Court quickly flew over.


    Emperor Xuan Sha, King Ku, Zhong Tian, the y Buddha, Zhao Suoxiang, Yin Luori, and other Heaven Extreme Realm experts surrounded them. Even Hao Meili joined in.


    Kong Lietian had escaped, but Kong Xuan posed an even greater threat.


    "You know that old Zhunti?" Kong Xuan''s eyes narrowed.


    "The eighteen-armed golden Dharma body isn''t a secret in the Great Thousand World, is it?"


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath, his eyes fixed on Kong Xuan.


    "Senior Kong Xuan, we have no real conflict of interest. Why must it be a fight to the death?"


    "A fight to the death? What do you think? The Immortal Realm was destroyed, the Three Swords of Immortal Execution were taken by you, and you weakened my fate. Isn''t that cause for a fight to the death? You probably wish me dead too, don''t you? The world says Zhong Shan is formidable in encounters and strength, but I think your greatest weapon is your tongue, twisting truths and deceiving everyone. ttery and deceit!" Kong Xuan said coldly.


    "And you''re no less insidious. Calcting against your own Kong family members!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Zhong Shan knew there would be no peaceful resolution, feeling a surge of frustration within him.


    "What did you say?" Kong Xuan''s eyes narrowed further.


    "If you didn''t want it known, you shouldn''t have done it. Why didn''t you save Kong Lietian earlier? Only intervening when he was about to be killed by me? You didn''t want Kong Lietian to die in front of you because you couldn''t exin it to the Kong family. Yet, you also wanted him dead to seize his Primeval Banner. You set up your men in the Taishang capital, ready to swoop in. Such a vicious n! Such a ruthless heart!" Zhong Shan retorted coldly.


    "Hahaha, ruthless heart? I didn''t kill Kong Lietian, but even if I did, so what? A peacock killing a peacock is ruthless, but a human killing a human isn''t? How many people have you killed, Zhong Shan? Hmph!" Kong Xuan snorted coldly.


    The tension between them escted as they prepared for the inevitable sh.

 Chapter 812: Oh My God, What Have I Done to Deserve This?

    <h4>Chapter 812: Oh My God, What Have I Done to Deserve This?</h4>


    Emperor Xuan Sha flew out, King Ku flew out, Hao Meili flew out��almost all the strongest figures of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court had taken to the skies.


    In a northern valley of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Tian Chenzi''s eyes gradually lit up with excitement.


    The timing was perfect, just moments away.


    What kind of power did Tian Chenzi have? He was at the Heaven Extreme Realm, and not just any level but one of the strongest, able to escape from a single strike by Ying. Yet, Tian Chenzi remained cautious, waiting precisely for this moment when the powerful figures he feared had left the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Only Nangong Sheng remained, but Tian Chenzi believed that even Nangong Sheng couldn''t stop him.


    Once the battle started, it would be time to strike.


    Tian Ling''er and the three other empresses stood at the West Gate, their eyes filled with worry as they watched intently.


    Emperor Xuan Sha and Daoist Shen Crow''s forces shed in an instant.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    The powerful World-Slicing Golden Wheel collided with the Immortal-ying Flying Daggers in their first encounter. The Immortal-ying Gourd, now unsealed, had dramatically increased the power of the daggers, sending the World-Slicing Golden Wheel flying in the first sh.


    Daoist Shen Crow, at the twelfth level of the Heaven Extreme Realm, wielded the unparalleled Immortal-ying Flying Daggers.


    Emperor Xuan Sha, with the World-Slicing Golden Wheel.


    "Howl������������������������������������������������!"


    Emperor Xuan Sha let out a long howl, transforming into a hundred-zhang-tall white wolf. His howl tore a massive hole in the sky, demonstrating the terrifying power of his voice alone.


    The cold, icy light in the wolf''s eyes shot towards Daoist Shen Crow. The twelve World-Slicing Golden Wheels circled Emperor Xuan Sha''s neck, creating an aura of menace. These wheels formed a massive ck hole, tearing through space and charging towards Daoist Shen Crow.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha?" Daoist Shen Crow''s eyes showed a flicker of surprise, but he charged forward, undeterred.


    The eight other Heaven Extreme Realm experts, slightly slower, couldn''t join the battle between Emperor Xuan Sha and Daoist Shen Crow but could engage with King Ku, Zhao Suoxiang, and others.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    The battle erupted, nine massive ck holes appearing in the sky.


    At Zhong Shan''s location.


    "The Heaven-Opening Axe? You think you can defeat me with this Heaven''s Mandate tool? And where''s your other body? Bring it out!" Kong Xuan demanded.


    "Whoosh!" Zhong Shan''s shadow body suddenly appeared.


    "I know you''re still afraid of my palms; your eyes can''t hide it!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Let''s see then! Let''s see how powerful your Heaven-Opening Axe really is," Kong Xuan scoffed.


    As he spoke, the eighteen-armed golden Dharma body advanced towards Zhong Shan''s main body.


    The shadow body faced Kong Xuan, neither making a move, with no Reincarnation Eyes or Five-Colored Divine Light in sight.


    The eighteen-armed golden Dharma body charged at Zhong Shan, its form growing to a thousand-zhang size. A massive palm descended from the sky, and Zhong Shan''s right hand rose to meet it.


    As Zhong Shan''s palm struck, a gigantic silver-glowing palm projection materialized in the void, surrounded by countless runes and clouds, exuding an air of dominance.


    The golden Dharma body''s palm met the silver palm.


    "Open!"


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    At the point where the two palms collided, a massive ck hole formed, shattering the void within a range of ten thousand miles. Zhong Shan was sted backward by the sheer force of the eighteen-armed golden Dharma body''s strike, the power of the Heaven-Opening Palm proving insufficient.


    "Ha ha ha ha, it''s just a facade! It doesn''t possess the true power of the Heaven-Opening Axe. Is this your trump card?" Kong Xuan sneered at the shadow body.


    "Now!" Tian Chenzi seized the moment.


    With Zhong Shan, Emperor Xuan Sha, and others embroiled in their battles, Tian Chenzi saw his chance to seize the Heavenly Command Token and capture Tian Ling''er. He shot towards the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    At that instant, at the West Gate, Nangong Sheng stepped forward from among the officials, "Yi Yan, someone is approaching the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Friend or foe, we do not know!"


    Yi Yan''s eyes widened, "The emperor has strictly ordered that during battle, no one is allowed to ascend to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Regardless of who it is, kill them!"


    Nangong Sheng nodded, rapidly casting numerous spells. Instantly, a massive seven-colored barrier enveloped the entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The powerful array activated, protecting the court, and a rain of seven-colored light des shot towards Tian Chenzi.


    Tian Chenzi''s eyes widened. He extended a hand, dispersing the iing light des with a single swipe.


    "Nangong Sheng''s array? Nangong Sheng, your cultivation has only just recovered to the Emperor Extreme Realm. You can''t fully utilize the power of this array!" Tian Chenziughed arrogantly.


    With a ck iron glove appearing on his hand, Tian Chenzi grasped at the void, tearing through space and shattering everything in his path. Reaching the seven-colored barrier, he struck it with a powerful blow.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    The array trembled but did not break.


    "Not good. This person is at the twelfth level of the Heaven Extreme Realm. I haven''t fully recovered. Empresses, quickly retreat to the depths of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court!" Nangong Sheng urged anxiously.


    "Toote!" Tian Chenzi roared.


    With a wave of his hand, Tian Chenzi''s ck iron gloves emanated a terrifying pulling force, wing at the seven-colored barrier.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    The barrier shattered. Tian Chenzi, the first master of the Tian family in the Netherworld, was not easily dealt with. Severely injured, Nangong Sheng couldn''t exert much power.


    Everything happened too quickly. In the blink of an eye, Tian Chenzi reached the West Gate, moving at an incredible speed.


    Rushing towards the four empresses, Tian Chenzi''s pupils suddenly contracted, and he changed direction.


    "A demon? Zhong Shan sure has many secrets, but unfortunately, the demon isn''t faster than me!" Tian Chenzi swiftly altered his path, heading straight for the four empresses.


    No one could stop him. He moved too fast. In the blink of an eye, the twelfth level of the Heaven Extreme Realm was an almost mythical level of power, beyond human limits.


    The four empresses each took out their own magical treasures, preparing to defend against Tian Chenzi.


    But Tian Chenzi''s strength was overwhelming. He had waited nearly a hundred years for this moment and would not fail.


    "You can''t escape!" Tian Chenzi snarled.


    A massive demonic w reached for Tian Ling''er. The other three empresses were also in danger of being killed by his touch.


    Death loomed.


    "Hahahaha������������������������������������������������!"


    Tian Chenzi was in high spirits, almost about to capture Tian Ling''er. Nearly a hundred years of painful waiting were finallying to an end.


    The four empresses were locked in by Tian Chenzi. Apart from Bei Qingsi, who had the strongest power to resist, the other three werepletely unable to move, their eyes filled with panic.


    The officials in the court were horrified. Yi Yan and Nangong Sheng were anxious, while Tian Chenzi exuded pride.


    "Seeking death������������������������������������������������!" "Seeking death������������������������������������������������!" "Seeking death������������������������������������������������!"


    Three explosive shouts echoed across the world, their majestic voices carrying an overwhelming aura of authority.


    All three voices were female, and their roars caused everyone near the Lingxiao Heavenly Court to experience a deafening ringing in their ears.


    A powerful aura descended on the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, causing many to freeze in terror, cold sweat pouring down their bodies.


    These three shouts were all directed at Tian Chenzi.


    As Tian Chenzi neared the empresses, his once proud expression froze. The three roars struck him to his core.


    Tian Chenzi''s scalp tingled with dread as he realized he might have provoked ancient monsters beyond hisprehension.


    In front of the four empresses, the void rippled like water, creating three intense disturbances. From each ripple, a delicate, feminine hand emerged.


    These hands were extraordinarily beautiful, but to Tian Chenzi, they were terrifying.


    Each hand was directed at him, and each carried a sense of inevitable death. These hands exuded an aura so powerful that it shouldn''t belong to this small world.


    Were these hands from powerful beings in the Great Thousand World? Moreover, for them to prate the barriers of a small world was a feat only legendary figures could aplish, even in the Great Thousand World. Piercing through the barriers of the mortal realm so effortlessly indicated the presence of extraordinary power.


    Not just one, but three right hands of such formidable beings? Tian Chenzi suddenly felt like crying, "Oh my God, what have I done to deserve this!"


    Moments ago, he had locked his aura on the four empresses, but now he was the one being targeted by three mighty beings. Immobilized, he could only cast a sorrowful nce at Tian Ling''er, his eyes filled with regret.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    The three women''s hands collided in an instant, turning Tian Chenzi into dust, leaving nothing behind.


    The three powerful hands retreated as quickly as they had appeared.


    Everyone stood in stunned silence, as if waking from a dream. The lingering thunderclouds in the sky served as a reminder that everything had been real. Indeed, powerful beings from the Great Thousand World had broken in.


    There was no need to worry about the safety of the four empresses. In this realm, no one could harm them.

 Chapter 813: One Strike of the Pangu Axe

    <h4>Chapter 813: One Strike of the Pangu Axe</h4>


    The three powerful beings, with their jade-like hands piercing through the barrier between two realms, annihted Tian Chenzi into ashes.


    The officials were stunned, looking at each other in disbelief. Nangong Sheng and Yi Yan exchanged a nce, their faces showing shock. The four empresses also looked at each other.


    "Sister, I was so scared just now!" Tian Ling''er said to Bao''er.


    The officials were speechless. The empress was scared? What about the old guy who was turned into ashes?


    "It''s okay, it''s okay," Bao''erforted Tian Ling''er.


    This dramatic turn of events at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court also caught the attention of those on the distant battlefield.


    Kong Xuan''s pupils contracted as he looked towards the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, then his gaze shifted anxiously to Zhong Shan''s shadow body.


    "People from the Great Thousand World? You can actually collude with people from the Great Thousand World? No wonder, no wonder!" Kong Xuan''s eyes grew more serious and cautious.


    Zhong Shan''s shadow body nced towards the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, his eyes narrowing slightly, feeling a bit of lingering fear. Tian Chenzi, that old guy wasn''t killed by Ying? That was close!


    "Which body is the real one? The one that borrows the power of the Great Zheng, what about this body? Can it still open that great reincarnation passage?" Kong Xuan probed coldly.


    "Didn''t you know that I can borrow the power of the Great Zheng in both the mortal and theherworld?" the shadow body replied fearlessly.


    Kong Xuan''s pupils contracted.


    "That old injury from the ''Great Derivation Life Reduction Art'' hasn''t healed, has it? Even after devouring the Yellow Springs Road, you can''t be fully recovered, right?" the shadow body smirked.


    "I can crush you like an ant!" Kong Xuan snorted coldly.


    "Really? We are both smart people. You know you can''t kill me. If you don''t believe me, why not leave here and let your eighteen-armed golden Dharma body fight my other body?" the shadow body suggested with a smile.


    Zhong Shan''s shadow body understood Kong Xuan''s hesitation. The ''Great Derivation Life Reduction Art'' from Zhong Xuan had left a significant psychological shadow on Kong Xuan. Coupled with the sudden appearance of the three mighty beings from the Great Thousand World, Kong Xuan now found Zhong Shan unfathomable.


    Kong Xuan had immense confidence in his eighteen-armed golden Dharma body, but this shadow body, capable of opening the reincarnation passage and borrowing the power of theherworld, was something else entirely. The uncertainty and the intricate schemes of a destiny maniptor were enough to make Kong Xuan wary.


    "Let''s go!"


    Kong Xuan and the shadow body disappeared instantly, heading west.


    The eighteen-armed golden Dharma body now faced Zhong Shan''s main body.


    The battle with Kong Lietian was merely the beginning. The real fight was just starting.


    Kong Xuan''s golden Dharma body, Zhong Shan didn''t dare to be careless. This Dharma body, created by Sage Zhunti, possessed unparalleled power. Each of its eighteen arms represented an extreme force.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan couldn''t use any magical treasures, not the Fangtian Seal, the Nightmare de, or the Investiture of the Gods. Who knew if this Dharma body could wield the five-colored divine light?


    "The Heaven-Opening Axe, is this all its power?" the thousand-zhang-tall golden Dharma body said in a deep voice.


    "Try again!" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed proudly.


    His palms, now surrounded by runes, had doubled in power. Zhong Shan''s body also grew, reaching a thousand zhang tall. Borrowing the power of the Great Zheng, Zhong Shan wouldn''t be outdone by anyone in terms of size.


    With his silver-glowing palms, surrounded by countless runes, Zhong Shan struck out with immense force, facing the eighteen-armed golden Dharma body head-on.


    Ancient divine powers could reach the heavens and stand upon the earth, and so could Zhong Shan, but it wasn''t necessary.


    Previously, Zhong Shan had used only thirty percent of his power in one palm strike, and Kong Xuan could tell. Even with just thirty percent, it seemed as if Kong Xuan could see through Zhong Shan''s essence.


    Kong Xuan was now convinced that even if Zhong Shan used his full strength, he would still be unable to defeat the golden Dharma body. In this small thousand-world, no one could match the golden Dharma body, except perhaps Ying, but Ying was no longer here. Despite possessing the Heaven-Opening Axe, Zhong Shan was not a match for the eighteen-armed golden Dharma body.


    Kong Xuan reasoned that as long as the golden Dharma body destroyed one of Zhong Shan''s bodies, the other would be easily defeated in a two-on-one scenario.


    Even though the golden Dharma body had a guaranteed victory, Kong Xuan remained extremely cautious, probing Zhong Shan''s limits. Numerous precedents had shown that Zhong Shan''s trump cards were always unexpected and earth-shattering upon revtion.


    Kong Xuan, though disdainful of Zhong Shan''s previously revealed secrets, couldn''t ensure he wouldn''t suffer a setback again. Thest time, he had indeed suffered.


    Thus, Kong Xuan''s golden Dharma body was still very careful.


    The thousand-zhang-tall Zhong Shan raised his hands and once again struck towards the golden Dharma body.


    Zhong Shan''s palms struck out, and a gigantic, ten-thousand-zhang axe de appeared in the void, shing fiercely at the golden Dharma body. Under this massive axe de, the void shattered, carrying an unstoppable force towards the golden Dharma body.


    The same golden palm emerged, holding a Wind-Stabilizing Pearl, meeting the gigantic axe de.


    "Boom����������������������������������������!"


    Another terrifying collision ensued, expanding the massive ck hole to a size of two hundred thousand li, an extremely terrifying sight.


    The powerful shockwave made Zhong Shan''s blood churn, forcing him back a thousand zhang. His face turned red, almost spitting out a mouthful of blood from the bacsh.


    The recoil was too strong.


    However, when he stopped, Zhong Shan was shocked to find that Kong Xuan''s golden Dharma body hadn''t moved an inch. Zhong Shan''s powerful strike hadn''t budged it at all. That previous strike had nearly reached the power of ancient divine abilities in their prime.


    It still wasn''t enough?


    "Not enough!" The golden Dharma body shook its head, a tone of disdain in its voice.


    "I don''t believe it!" Zhong Shan roared, soaring up again.


    Heavenly Demon Tempering Body, Seventh Level!


    Eight times the power surged, and Zhong Shan''s muscles swelled, the terrifying power visible through the veins bulging on his skin.


    In the same posture and the same move, Zhong Shan struck again with eight times the strength.


    "A secret method to stimte potential? It''s useless. Even if you increase your power tenfold, you can''t harm my golden body. If this is your limit, then it''s over!" The golden Dharma body said coldly.


    Zhong Shan knew that even with eight times the power, it wasn''t enough. But he had onest secret, which he was ready to use.


    "One Strike of Pangu!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    At the same time, in the sea of fortune clouds above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, infused with ''destiny,'' all the divine statues emitted a thousand rays of golden light. Especially the chief divine statue, Zhong Shan''s own, not only radiated golden light but also shone with seven-colored light above its head.


    The seven-colored light surged, and the divine statue''s power merged with Zhong Shan''s strike, amplifying its force manifold. The sky trembled as Zhong Shan''s hands, now imbued with the essence of the Pangu Axe, came crashing down towards the golden Dharma body with unprecedented might.


    The seven-colored light seemed to connect heaven and earth, shing brilliantly in an instant. Suddenly, the sky darkened, and winds and clouds surged in all directions.


    For cultivators, such minor weather changes might not be significant, but the scope of this phenomenon was terrifyingly vast. It covered not just the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, but all four directions��across the Great Zheng''snds, the Taishang''s territories, all of Shenzhou, and even the four seas. The entire world, this small thousand-world, was engulfed in the storm.


    The horrifying change in the sky covered the entire world, every corner.


    Kong Xuan, with Zhong Shan''s shadow body, saw the sudden change in the heavens and widened his eyes, a look of horror shing across his face.


    "This is bad!" Kong Xuan suddenly eximed.


    Indeed, it was bad. The scene at the golden Dharma body was the clearest.


    The Heaven-Opening Move?


    Is this the Heaven-Opening Move?


    Zhong Shan struck with his palms, and the void manifested an enormous Heaven-Opening Axe shadow. However, this time, the axe was exaggeratedlyrge, spanning ten thousand li. The size wasn''t the key factor��the power was.


    The power of the Heaven-Opening Axe surged at an exaggerated rate, not drawn from Zhong Shan himself, but from the four corners of heaven and earth, gathering force from all directions.


    Borrowing the power of heaven and earth? A terrifying convergence, an inconceivable gathering of strength. How could this be? He was just a mortal; why would heaven and earth lend him power? The heavens lending power?


    How was this possible?


    For the first time, the eighteen-armed golden Dharma body showed a look of shock.


    Indeed, Zhong Shan''s trump card, when revealed, was truly astonishing. This hidden power was immense. How could a mere mortal wield such immense strength and capability?


    The eighteen-armed golden Dharma body realized it was locked onto by the colossal axe strike from the void, unable to move.


    The golden Dharma body emitted boundless golden light, transforming into a gigantic figure a million zhang tall, with all eighteen arms radiating different lights, forming the strongest defense.


    "Immovable King����������������������������������������!"


    The third eye of the golden Dharma body shed with seven-colored light, its face solemn, exuding vast, invincible power to meet Zhong Shan''s overwhelming axe.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������������������!"


    Zhong Shan''s axe strike was unstoppable, cleaving through everything. A massive ck hole extended from the battlefield towards the west, engulfing everything in its path, including Suimou City, which was obliterated into a ck hole. The destructive path continued westward, shattering space for billions of li. The horrifying impact didn''t stop, causing a massive tsunami in the Western Sea two dayster.


    The strike swept across half of Shenzhou.


    The officials at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court were dumbfounded, their jaws nearly dropping in shock.


    The Heaven Extreme Realm battles on the side also paused. Each fighter, looking like they had seen a ghost, stared at Zhong Shan. Despite being Heaven Extreme Realm cultivators themselves, even the ck holes created by Emperor Xuan Sha and Daoist Shen Crow''s battles were at most ten thousand li in diameter.


    Yet, the ck hole created by Zhong Shan and the eighteen-armed golden Dharma body stretched for billions of li? Were these two even human?


    This was beyond monstrous!


    Kong Xuan, who was with Zhong Shan''s shadow body, widened his eyes in shock.


    "It''s the Pangu Axe Strike? The Pangu Axe Strike has reappeared. He''s just a mortal, and he actually managed to unleash the Pangu Axe Strike. Impossible, impossible!" Kong Xuan''s eyes were wide with disbelief.

 Chapter 814: The Terror of Destiny

    <h4>Chapter 814: The Terror of Destiny</h4>


    "It''s the Pangu Axe Strike? The Pangu Axe Strike has reappeared. He''s just a mortal, and he actually managed to unleash the Pangu Axe Strike. Impossible, impossible!" Kong Xuan''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    The Pangu Axe Strike, named by Zhong Shan as the "Heaven-Opening Move," was an incredibly powerful technique. This was the first time Zhong Shan had ever used it. This move originated from the concept of "destiny," derived from the tiny fragment of destiny that Zhong Shan controlled.


    In the past, the Heavenly God Son had asked Zhong Shan what the greatest thing in the world was. Zhong Shanter guessed it was destiny, and although he was only partially correct, even that partial understanding had brought him enough power and shock for today.


    The seven-colored light from the divine statue suddenly gave Zhong Shan the ability to connect with heaven and earth, or as if he couldprehend the will of heaven like Hao Meili.


    The "Heaven-Opening Move" was the only move Zhong Shan could use after grasping a sliver of destiny, channeling the power of heaven and earth, the power of the entire world.


    Zhong Shan''s attempt had seeded.


    The power of heaven and earth was mobilized, and the terrifying effect left the world in awe.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan''s entire body was spewing blood. The terrifying power he had summoned had passed through his body, and if it were any other Heaven Extreme Realm cultivator or even an ordinary immortal, they would have exploded from the sheer force. But Zhong Shan''s body, tempered by the Heavenly Demon Body Tempering, managed to hold on at the brink of copse.


    However, his body was now covered in wounds, bleeding and mangled.


    This move had allowed Zhong Shan to wield the power of heaven and earth, and even the eighteen-armed golden Dharma body, prepared as it was, couldn''t have anticipated such an overwhelming force. Zhong Shan''s hidden card was too frightening, the power too immense.


    Zhong Shan ultimately couldn''t control this power. The gigantic shadow of the Heaven-Opening Axe struck the golden Dharma body, and in a moment of panic, it tried to dodge.


    Unfortunately, the power of the axe was too great.


    With one strike, it severed four golden arms.


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail, usually avoiding direct confrontation with Kong Xuan, was exceptionally adept at seizing opportunities.


    The moment the four golden arms fell, the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail darted in, opening its mouth to suck them up.


    "Boom!"


    A sudden palm strike hit the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail on the head, forcing out three of the golden arms it had just swallowed. However, it managed to hold onto one, disappearing back into Zhong Shan''s body.


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail quickly digested the golden arm, using its energy to repair Zhong Shan''s injured body.


    The one who struck the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail was Kong Xuan.


    In an instant, Kong Xuan was once again near Zhong Shan.


    Within the ck hole.


    Kong Xuan held three golden arms, and beside him stood the twelve-armed golden Dharma body, both covered in web-like cracks. They were indeed a pair.


    Facing them were Zhong Shan''s main body and shadow body.


    Kong Xuan stared at the scene in shock. The Pangu Axe Strike��he had seen a simr power before, and now Zhong Shan had mastered such a terrifying killing move?


    Kong Xuan was filled with uncertainty. Was Zhong Shan a monster? A freak?


    Despite his own formidable strength, capable of dominating even in the Great Thousand World, he had twice been suppressed by a mortal? He had been cautious of Zhong Shan''s hidden moves, but each of Zhong Shan''s trump cards was more terrifying than thest.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live, long live!"


    The ministers cheered.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live, long live!"


    The people of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court echoed the cry.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live, long live!"


    The cheers continued incessantly. Great Zheng had triumphed, finally sweeping across the eight directions and iming victory. The Emperor had defeated the greatest warrior of the Longevity World. No one in the world could challenge him now.


    Invincible!


    Zhong Shan awoke two dayster.


    Surrounded by the four empresses who anxiously waited, the ministers stood outside the great hall.


    Zhong Shan slowly opened his eyes.


    "Zhong Shan, you''re awake! Thank goodness, you''re awake!" Tian Ling''er cried, her eyes red from worry.


    "Ling''er, hold on, let him rest a bit more," Bao''er advised.


    Tian Ling''er quickly closed her mouth, watching Zhong Shan with joy.


    Zhong Shan''s entire body still ached. The power of the Heaven-Opening Move had been overwhelming. In the heat of battle, Zhong Shan hadn''t felt it, but now he realized his body felt as if it had been torn apart. The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail, apart from what it absorbed itself, had converted a small portion into energy suitable for repairing Zhong Shan''s body.


    All the energy was used for repairs. Although Zhong Shan remained at the ninth level of the Heaven Extreme Realm, he was now at its peak, just a step away from reaching the tenth level.


    As Zhong Shan came to his senses, seeing everyone around him, a warm smile appeared on his heavily injured face.


    "I''m fine," Zhong Shan said, smiling.


    "Fine? That''s great!" Tian Ling''er immediately grabbed Zhong Shan''s hand.


    Outside the hall, the ministers offered their congrattions, and inside, the four empresses smiled with relief.


    "Long live the Emperor, long live, long live!"


    The celebratory shouts echoed from outside the hall.


    With the help of the four empresses, Zhong Shan slowly walked out of the great hall.


    Outside, the ministers looked at Zhong Shan with admiration. At this moment, Zhong Shan was a god in their eyes, and the unity of the Great Zheng Dynasty had grown even stronger.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha, did you kill him?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Emperor Xuan Sha.


    Kong Xuan had left, and Zhong Shan suspected he had returned to the Longevity World, but the one remaining concern was Daoist Shen Crow.


    Emperor Xuan Sha pped his hands, and two guards brought forth arge gourd, cing it before Zhong Shan. It was Daoist Shen Crow''s treasure, the Immortal-ying Gourd, but now it was covered in cracks, about to fall apart.


    "The Immortal-ying Gourd is here, and Daoist Shen Crow has been annihted. It seems I couldn''t be a legend, but from this battle, the only one who did is you!" Emperor Xuan Sha said, with a rare smile.


    Though weak, Zhong Shan smiled and nodded, then looked up at his divine statue in the sea of fortune clouds.


    The seven-colored light atop his divine statue had vanished. Arge amount of destiny had been consumed, and the Heaven-Opening Move couldn''t be used again in a short time. It would require umting a vast amount of destiny again.


    "Yi Yan, what''s the situation outside?" Zhong Shan asked, turning to Yi Yan.


    "The fortune clouds of the Taishang Dynasty have dispersed, and the Taishang Dynasty is destroyed. Kong Lietian is likely dead! There is no longer any threat to our dynasty, and soon, Your Majesty will unify the world!" Yi Yan reported.


    "As expected. It''s a pity I couldn''t kill him personally, but such a significant treasure as the Primeval Banner will resurface eventually. What about the Longevity World?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "The Longevity World is gone, but there are some new developments. Zun, the one who controls the Chaos Bell, and Wang Chen have not followed the path we anticipated," Yi Yan said with a frown.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan showed interest.

 Chapter 815: The God Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 815: The God Emperor</h4>


    "The Longevity World is gone, but there are some unexpected variables: Zun, who wields the Chaos Bell, and Wang Chen. Things did not develop as we had anticipated," Yi Yan said with a frown.


    "Oh?"


    "I don''t have all the details yet. Shuijing sent a message saying that Zun and Wang Chen''s presence caused chaos in the Longevity World. Eventually, Kong Xuan arrived, collected the Longevity World, and left," Yi Yan exined, shaking his head.


    "It seems the Longevity World has undergone some turmoil. We should wait for Shuijing and the others to return with more information," Zhong Shan said, nodding.


    "Yes!"


    "You may all leave. I am fine," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" The ministers bowed and retreated.


    Once the ministers had left, only Emperor Xuan Sha remained, holding the Immortal-ying Gourd.


    The four empresses supported Zhong Shan in silence, sensing his current solemnity.


    Zhong Shan stared at Emperor Xuan Sha, his brow slightly furrowed.


    "Keep this Immortal-ying Gourd. I believe it will be useful to you," Emperor Xuan Sha said.


    Keep it? The empresses found this somewhat unusual.


    After a long, deep look at Emperor Xuan Sha, Zhong Shan did not refuse and said, "Go see Xianxian. She is in the Underworld''s Changjing."


    "I will," Emperor Xuan Sha nodded.


    Bei Qingsi took the Immortal-ying Gourd from him. Emperor Xuan Sha''s figure flickered and disappeared from their sight.


    "Master, what does Emperor Xuan Sha mean by this?" Bao''er asked.


    "Does he intend to leave?" Gu Qianyou pondered.


    "Emperor Xuan Sha is an aloof and unparalleled warrior, but as the supreme of the wolf n, his heart is dedicated to the rise and fall of his race. The wolf n, once hidden on a small ind, nowmands respect across the world as the premier beast race of Shenzhou. His wish has been fulfilled. The wolf n''s rise is due to his decisions, and his burden has been lifted. After the Heaven-Opening, with his heart as a warrior, he will not be content with silence," Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "Not content with silence? What does that mean? What about the future of the Great Zheng Dynasty and the Great Zheng Divine Court?" Bao''er asked with a frown.


    "After the Heaven-Opening, Great Zheng will not remain silent. Some will want us to be silent, while others will ensure we do not. The Great Thousand World is a veryplex beginning," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    The empresses furrowed their brows, pondering the implications of Zhong Shan''s words.


    Three monthster, at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court''s Tianyuan Pavilion.


    Zhong Shan had almost fully recovered from his injuries, and Shuijing and the others had all returned.


    Zhong Shan sat behind his desk, with Shuijing, Mr. Corpse, Elder Tian, King Ku, and Yi Yan standing before him.


    "Your Majesty, based on the timing, it was likely Zun who broke Kong Xuan''s restrictions, causing Kong Xuan to retreat from the Two Worlds'' Pass," Shuijing spected.


    "How did Zun face the Longevity World alone? Ye Qingcheng should have been able to leverage the power of the Longevity World," Zhong Shan pondered.


    "Zun opened the Ascension Passage!"


    "Oh?"


    "Ye Qingcheng utilized the power of the Longevity World''s merit, which would have made him nearly invincible to ordinary people. However, Zun transcended the Earth Immortal Tribtion, meaning he reached the Earth Immortal level. During an Earth Immortal''s ascension, the heavens open a passage, allowing a group of powerful beings from the Great Thousand World to descend," Shuijing exined.


    "All of them were under Zun''smand?" Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes.


    "Yes. Somehow, he informed the people of the Great Thousand World of his location. Nearly a hundred powerful cultivators descended, addressing him as ''Master.'' They then attacked the Longevity World as a group," Shuijing exined.


    "A group of supreme experts?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed further.


    "These were no ordinary experts. They were either immortals or Heaven Extreme Realm cultivators. The Longevity World, having lost Daoist Shen Crow and Kong Xuan, faced a tremendous disaster. Despite Ye Qingcheng''s mastery of the Immortal-ying Sword and the presence of other Heaven Extreme Realm experts, they were forced into a retreat," Shuijing said, frowning.


    "Forced into retreat? These experts were that fierce?"


    "Not just fierce, they fought with a suicidal determination, aiming for mutual destruction. These people were more like ''death warriors,''" Shuijing said, clearly shaken.


    "Death warriors? Immortal-level death warriors? They called Zun ''Master.'' Could there be a powerful force backing him?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed even more.


    Zhong Shan stood up and paced back and forth in the study. The existence of such death warriors hinted at a significant power behind them.


    "What happened next?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Shuijing again.


    "Except for Ye Qingcheng, the Longevity World''s forces were decimated. Ye Qingcheng himself seemed to be heavily injured after fighting ten of these death warriors to a mutual destruction. Zun used the Chaos Bell to break through and entered the Longevity World. After that, we didn''t go in, but Mr. Corpse managed to sneak in using a secret method," Shuijing said.


    Everyone turned to Mr. Corpse.


    "I entered. Zun went straight to Kong Xuan''s residence, the ce where we previously stole the purple coffin. His target was that purple coffin," Mr. Corpse said gravely.


    "Didn''t Kong Xuan set up defensive formations?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "He did, and they were very strong. Zun couldn''t break them, even with the Chaos Bell and the help of several immortals. Kong Xuan''s formations were too powerful," Mr. Corpse said.


    "Oh? What happened then?"


    "Then things got strange. Zun used the blood, flesh, and souls of ten of the immortals to sacrifice to the Chaos Bell," Mr. Corpse said.


    "Sacrifice to the Chaos Bell?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    Mr. Corpse nodded.


    "Ten immortals, from the Great Thousand World? They didn''t resist?" Zhong Shan was astonished.


    "No resistance at all! All ten willingly sacrificed themselves, using their blood, flesh, and souls to empower the Chaos Bell. It''s unimaginable what kind of terrifying power could cultivate such death warriors. I could see clearly that the ten immortals were fully conscious and clear-minded. They looked at the Chaos Bell with great reverence, willingly sacrificing themselves," Mr. Corpse said, still shaken by the memory.


    The study fell silent. This revtion was beyond anyone''s understanding. Willingly sacrificing themselves? Would any immortals truly be willing to die?


    "What happened next?" Zhong Shan asked, taking a deep breath.


    "After the sacrifice, the Chaos Bell shone with golden light, radiating like a brilliant sun. Then, from the mouth of the enormous Chaos Bell, a hand filled with terrifying power extended. The aura of that hand was so overwhelming that I could hardly breathe. It was immensely powerful. I believe the effect of the ten immortals'' sacrifice was to allow the Chaos Bell to connect to a supreme being from the Great Thousand World. That person''s single strike shattered a significant portion of Kong Xuan''s formations," Mr. Corpse said with awe.


    "One strike broke Kong Xuan''s formations? Kong Xuan''s own defenses? Who could be that powerful?" Zhong Shan was filled with disbelief.


    "At that time, Zun was bowing to the hand. I happened to overhear," Mr. Corpse said.


    "Oh?"


    Everyone looked at Mr. Corpse, hoping this bowing might reveal the identity of the powerful figure.


    "Zun said, ''Divine Emperor''s might, your subordinate bows in reverence.'' After saying that, Zun genuinely knelt down," Mr. Corpse exined.


    Divine Emperor''s might? Divine Emperor? Who is the Divine Emperor?


    Zhong Shan looked at Mr. Corpse, then at King Ku. Mr. Corpse''s eyes showed a trace of confusion, but King Ku slightly trembled.


    Though it was subtle, Zhong Shan noticed King Ku''s slight tremble.


    "Mr. Corpse, King Ku, you bothe from the Great Thousand World. Have you ever heard of the Divine Emperor?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I have not!" Mr. Corpse shook his head.


    "Nor have I!" King Ku also shook his head.


    Zhong Shan looked at the two of them but did not press further. He began to ponder, even drawing on the mythical stories he had encountered in his youth.


    Pacing back and forth in the hall, the ministers waited quietly.


    After a stick of incense had burned, Zhong Shan murmured, "Divine Emperor? Divine?"


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s eyes widened, and his face changed dramatically with shock. "Is it him? Wasn''t he supposed to be dead? Hadn''t he fallen long ago?"


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s shock, the ministers were puzzled. King Ku also seemed to seek confirmation from Zhong Shan.


    "Your Majesty, who is it?" Shuijing and the others immediately asked.


    Taking a deep breath to calm his shock, Zhong Shan shook his head. "Don''t ask. It''s better that you don''t know. If my guess is correct, the revtion of this news would cause more shock than the discovery of that sage''s corpse. The Great Thousand World would be a ce where we can no longer find refuge!"


    The ministers were taken aback. Could it be that serious? But they knew their emperor would not conceal anything from his ministers without good reason. If he said it was this serious, it must be true.


    "Understood!" The ministers responded immediately.


    "Does anyone else know about this?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "No one!" Mr. Corpse replied promptly.


    "Good. What you heard just now, and what we discussed, must remain a secret. Not a single word can leak out," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "Understood!" The ministers responded promptly.


    "Continue," Zhong Shan said, looking at Mr. Corpse.


    "Yes. The hand that emerged from the Chaos Bell struck twice, destroying most of Kong Xuan''s defensive formations, leaving only a small part intact. After that, the hand disappeared, and Zun slowly broke the remaining formations. Once the formations were gone, the purple coffin was exposed. Zun, like we did, opened the coffin to examine it, to confirm its contents. However, as he pulled out the tenth coffin nail and opened the lid, another change urred��Wang Chen suddenly arrived!" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Wang Chen?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes. By that time, the Longevity World was in ruins, most of its experts were dead, and Ye Qingcheng had fled. Zun had only four or five subordinates left. Just as both sides were nearly exhausted, Wang Chen arrived," Mr. Corpse said with a frown.

 Chapter 816: The Secret of the Primordial Coffin Nails

    <h4>Chapter 816: The Secret of the Primordial Coffin Nails</h4>


    "After Wang Chen arrived, what happened?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "The sea of blood surged violently. The Blood God''s technique proved to be as fearsome as its reputation in the vast world. Amidst the chaos of the blood sea, Wang Chenunched a surprise attack on the Human Sovereign andter exterminated the remaining four or five of his subordinates!" Mr. Shi exined.


    "Wang Chen is that powerful?" Zhao Suoxiang asked from the side.


    "Wang Chen''s individual strength is not that great, but within his sea of blood, he possesses numerous powerful Blood Gods. Theirbined assault caught the Human Sovereign and his men off guard," Mr. Shi said, taking a deep breath.


    "What does he want? Is he after the Saint''s corpse?"


    "No, his initial target was this!" Mr. Shi said, producing an ancient ck nail from his hand, covered in mysterious runes.


    "Coffin nail?" Zhao Suoxiang frowned.


    "Yes, these are coffin nails. There are ten in total. I managed to acquire three of them; they are truly peerless treasures!" Mr. Shi said.


    "Peerless treasures?"


    Zhong Shan nodded. Indeed, as he had guessed before, nails capable of containing a Saint''s corpse could not be ordinary nails. After all, a Saint''s corpse is far beyond the control of even divine artifacts, yet these ten coffin nails had seeded.


    Zhong Shan did not know who forged these nails, but in this world, they were no less significant than any of the legendary Ten Treasures of Antiquity.


    <strong>Nails to Contain a Saint''s Corpse!</strong>


    "So, did you also take action at that time?" Zhong Shan asked Mr. Shi.


    "Yes. When the coffin lid was opened, the heavens mourned, and tears of rain fell from the sky. Endless ''habitual air'' surged into the coffin like a tsunami. I knew at that moment that the corpse transformation could not be stopped. As the corpse energy grew stronger, I realized that the coffin could no longer contain the Saint''s body, so I took action secretly, but unfortunately, I only obtained three coffin nails!" Mr. Shi said with a shake of his head.


    "Oh? Only three? What about the remaining seven?"


    "The Human Sovereign acquired two, and Wang Chen got five of the Saint''s coffin nails!" Mr. Shi sighed slightly.


    "And then?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "After the division of the coffin nails, the Human Sovereign quickly closed the coffin and fled the Changsheng Realm with it. Wang Chen pursued closely behind, and I followed as well," Mr. Shi said.


    "You came out?"


    "I did not dare to touch the Saint''s corpse, but the Human Sovereign and Wang Chen fought fiercely over it. I, along with Shui Jing, Tian Lao, and the others, quickly retreated, leaving the battlefield to the two of them. Although they fought, thankfully, they did not show any disrespect to the Saint''s corpse; otherwise, the heavens would have struck them with lightning," Mr. Shi recalled.


    "The Human Sovereign was deeply concealed, and Wang Chen even more so!" Yi Yan remarked from the side.


    "Indeed, their contest was evenly matched. At that moment, the surrounding space began to tremble slightly and then violently swayed. It was as if the Changsheng Realm was shaking intensely, connected by a tremendous force to some distant ce, and then Wang Chen and the Human Sovereign''s battle ceased!" Mr. Shi said.


    "Uh?"


    "It was Kong Xuan arriving. From an immeasurable distance away, Kong Xuan sensed the Changsheng Realm and attempted to forcefully move closer!" Mr. Shi exined.


    "How marvelous!" Zhong Shan marveled.


    "The Human Sovereign and Wang Chen noticed, but even more terrifying events urred afterward," Mr. Shi continued.


    "What happened?"


    "When the Human Sovereign emerged with the purple giant coffin, the lid had already closed, and the heavenly mourning had ceased. But then, the mourning started again, still as sorrowful as before, but now with a deep sense of gravity," Mr. Shi said.


    "The lid was closed, and yet there was heavenly mourning? Does that mean the purple giant coffin is no longer effective? Is the corpse transformation about to bepleted?" Yi Yan''s pupils contracted.


    "Yes, the purple giant coffin suddenly began to float eerily, rising steadily. It then aimed at the ascension passage opened by the Human Sovereign and started to fly upwards on its own, attempting to leave the small world," Mr. Shi said gravely.


    "The corpse transformation isplete?"


    "I don''t know!" Mr. Shi shook his head.


    "How can you not know? Isn''t this your area of expertise?" Zhao Suoxiang asked anxiously.


    "I study corpses, but I''ve never dealt with a Saint''s corpse. At the level of a Saint''s corpse, I can only make educated guesses based on experience; I can''t be certain. At that time, the purple giant coffin shot up, gaining speed rapidly, surrounded by countless death auras. Even the Human Sovereign and Wang Chen, who tried to seize it, were repelled by the powerful corpse energy. They both chased the purple giant coffin out of this realm!" Mr. Shi said, frowning.


    "Wang Chen, a mere mortal, can leave the small world?" Yi Yan frowned.


    "The Blood God''s technique protected him, allowing him to pass through the ascension passage. And at that moment, Kong Xuan also arrived at thest second. Seeing the purple giant coffin fly out, Kong Xuan waved his sleeve and rolled up the Longevity Realm, chasing after it. However, just as he was about to leave the small world, he noticed us," Mr. Shi said.


    "Oh?"


    "At the moment of departure, Kong Xuan nced at me and threw something, saying it was for you, Your Majesty!" Shui Jing suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan showed a hint of surprise.


    Shui Jing took out a cyan jade slip and gently ced it in front of Zhong Shan.


    "After Kong Xuan threw this item, he also left this realm the moment the ascension passage closed. The Human Sovereign, Wang Chen, Kong Xuan, and the Saint''s corpse all left this realm!" Shui Jing said.


    A cyan jade slip? Zhong Shan picked it up with a hint of doubt.


    A message from Kong Xuan to him? What could it be?


    The ministers all looked at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan grasped the jade slip, carefully removing a small restriction and began toprehend it. The ministers waited in silence.


    As Zhong Shan read the jade slip, his expression suddenly changed as if he had learned some earth-shattering news.


    A bead of cold sweat appeared on Zhong Shan''s forehead, and his eyes shed with regret. An intense feeling of resentment filled the entire study.


    The ministers were puzzled and worried. What could Kong Xuan have said to make the emperor react this way? What could shake the emperor so deeply?


    "Pa!"


    In a fit of rage, Zhong Shan crushed the jade slip, but instead of being destroyed, it released a wisp of cyan smoke.


    "Zhong Shan, I can no longer manage the affairs of the small world, but I am deeply discontented. I, Kong Xuan, have fallen twice at the hands of a mere mortal like you. I am unwilling to ept this. However, I will not let you have it easy. Are you filled with resentment after reading this message? I want you to spend your remaining days in torment!" Kong Xuan''s voice echoed from the cyan smoke.


    This was Kong Xuan''s message, but even this brief message gave the ministers a sense of foreboding.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    "Roarrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!"


    Zhong Shan roared in rage and frustration.


    The ministers dared not intervene, and Zhong Shan''s furious roar from Tianyuan Pavilion immediately rmed the empresses in the harem, prompting them to rush over.


    "Zhong Shan, what happened?" Tian Ling''er cried out as she rushed in.


    "Husband, are you alright?" Bao''er hurried over as well.


    Gu Qianyou and Bei Qingsi looked at Zhong Shan with deep concern.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan''s eyes were bloodshot, filled with intense anger.


    Under the soothing presence of the four women, Zhong Shan slowly suppressed the frustration boiling inside him. Everyone watched him with worry. Zhong Shan sat down, closed his eyes to calm his rage, and after a while, his expression softened slightly. Suddenly, a strange smile appeared on his previously angry face.


    The ministers were puzzled. What happened to the emperor?


    "Yi Yan, listen to mymand!" Zhong Shan suddenly opened his eyes and said.


    "I am here!" Yi Yan immediately responded.


    "I have a task for you. From the pce of Kong Lietian, from the beginning of the battle to now, you must control everyone within the pce," Zhong Shanmanded solemnly.


    "Yes, but what else should I do?" Yi Yan asked.


    "Kong Lietian must have retreated to the pce in the end. Additionally, reports say there was a loud noise in the pce that day. I want you to control everyone and find out the final whereabouts of the Primordial Banner. Do not overlook any details; I need the exact departure route of the Primordial Banner!" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Yes!"


    "Alright, you are all dismissed for now," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" the ministers responded in unison and retreated, leaving only the four empresses behind.


    "Husband, what happened just now?" Bao''er asked.


    The other three women also looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Just now, Kong Xuan gave me a jade slip containing information about the Primordial Banner. Kui''er''s fate is likely still intact, and it is within the Primordial Banner!" Zhong Shan revealed, his face showing strong joy.


    "Really?"


    "Yes, I have been inside the Primordial Banner, and it is as Kong Xuan described. However, to unleash the full power of the Primordial Banner, twelve celestial pirs must be formed. These pirs require the fates of women born in yin years, yin months, yin days, and yin hours. The twelve celestial pirs are crucial. Although Kong Lietian hasn''t formed the twelve celestial pirs, he must have carefully preserved the fates of these women. Whether Kui''er''s soul remains or not, her fate is still there. This is good news, but the bad news is that I missed the chance to seize the Primordial Banner!" Zhong Shan''s expression turned deeply resentful once more.


    "Husband, don''t be disheartened. No matter what, this is good news. With good news, more will follow. Missing the Primordial Banner now doesn''t mean you won''t encounter it again in the future. Don''t fall into Kong Xuan''s trap; he wants to torment you," Bao''er softlyforted him.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan nodded, "Rest assured, I am filled with hatred, but I am not the same as before. I won''t fall into Kong Xuan''s trap; he underestimates me!"


    "Really?" Bao''er was still a bit unsure.


    Gently patting Bao''er''s hand, Zhong Shan assured, "Kong Xuan''s provocation won''t torment me; instead, it will motivate me."


    "That''s good to hear!" The women all breathed a sigh of relief.


    After sending the women away, Zhong Shan sat alone in his study. He remained there for three to four hours. During this time, his mind was not preupied with benefits or future ns. There was only one image in his mind��Wei Kui''er.

 Chapter 817 - 818: Eyes of the Supreme Beast

    <h4>Chapter 817: Chapter 818: Eyes of the Supreme Beast</h4>


    In Tianyuan Pavilion.


    The ministers stood assembled, with Liu Wushuang stepping forward and bowing before Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan held a white letter in his hand, addressed to him.


    "Where did thise from?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I don''t know. The guards at the Southern Gate said this letter was shot out from the clouds,nding at the gate. Upon seeing Your Majesty''s name on it, no one dared to touch it," Liu Wushuang replied.


    "When did this happen?"


    "Three hours ago!"


    Zhong Shan nced at Liu Wushuang, then turned his attention back to the letter. The three characters "To Zhong Shan" were written elegantly, exuding a sense of freshness and sophistication.


    Opening the letter, he found only a single line of delicate writing:


    "I am ascending. Farewell, until we meet again!"


    The brief message bore no signature but was filled with deep reluctance. The simple words conveyed immense affection for Zhong Shan. The tone carried a hint of mncholy and reluctance but ultimately expressed the inevitability of departure.


    No signature, no indication of who sent it��just a sorrowful farewell letter.


    Who sent this letter from the clouds?


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes, feeling the subtle emotion within the letter, and carefully put it away.


    After storing the letter, Zhong Shan opened his eyes to the assembled ministers. Liu Wushuang had already returned to his ce.


    "Yi Yan, how are the preparations?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I have mobilized numerous experts from the Daming Temple to the former pce of Kong Lietian. We have detained everyone there, and after thorough interrogation, I havepiled this information for Your Majesty''s review!" Yi Yan stepped forward, handing over a jade slip.


    "Oh?"


    Zhong Shan took the jade slip from Yi Yan and quickly read through it. Within moments, he finished.


    "Sekong?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Yes, based on my deductions, Kong Lietian''s soul was likely destroyed by Sekong. The experts sent from the Longevity Realm failed to capture Sekong, allowing him to escape. The two experts from the Longevity Realm have been detained by us. Their ounts have been verified and are truthful. Sekong has probably fled this realm, destination unknown," Yi Yan reported.


    "Hmm, regardless of where he has gone, the Primordial Banner will never remain silent! Once we reach the vast world, intensify the search for Sekong and the Primordial Banner!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!"


    "How much longer will it take to pacify the western front?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "With the copse of the Taishui Heavenly Dynasty, taking over the remaining cities should be swift. We expect to unify the Yang Realm within twenty years," Yi Yan said.


    "Good. Then twenty years it is. As for all of you, I expect you to cultivate diligently. Your current cultivation speed is forty to fifty times faster than before. Reach the peak of the mortal realm as soon as possible!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" the ministers responded in unison.


    Twenty yearster, the world was unified, with celebrations across thend. Numerous western cities fell under the domain of Great Zheng. The Great Zheng Dynasty unified the world.


    The first dynasty in history to achieve such a feat!


    The greatest dynasty of all time!


    Zhong Shan became the supreme ruler, sweeping across all directions and unifying the realm. Under hismand, both heaven and earth recognized his unrivaled authority.


    On the day the news was announced, Yi Yan proimed it to the world. Through his shadow body, he led the ministers in celebrations in the Yang Realm. However, Zhong Shan''s true body was not in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court; he had gone to the bottom of the Western Sea.


    The Western Sea was perpetually gued by fierce winds and storms, making it inhospitable to both humans and beasts. Zhong Shan walked alone on the waves. Standing above the Western Sea, he watched the endless gales and towering waves with a slight nod of approval.


    Diving swiftly into the depths of the sea, where constant tsunamis deterred most sea creatures, Zhong Shan found a massive rock and set up a formation. He was preparing to enter seclusion.


    Zhong Shan was ready to break through��not in cultivation level, but in the Hongluan Heavenly Sutra.


    Perhaps the Hongluan Heavenly Sutra was truly fated for him, as his cultivation had been incredibly smooth thus far.


    With his mind focused, Zhong Shan''s consciousness concentrated on his brow, where a pink Hongluan lotus was located. Below it, lotus stems and leaves had begun to grow, and now, a tender lotus root had also appeared. The delicate lotus root was exceptionally beautiful.


    The Hongluan lotus had reached the eighth level!


    The eighth level: The Eyes of Fate and Doom!


    Zhong Shan remained in meditation for eight days and nights. At the end of the eighth day, his eyes gently opened, still as soft as before, without any sign of change.


    The power of the Hongluan lotus slightly permeated Zhong Shan''s eyes, transforming the world before him into a myriad of mist-like lines of rules and principles. Staring at the vast ocean, Zhong Shan saw nothing but endless regtions.


    He focused on a ck stone in the sea. Instantly, the stone in Zhong Shan''s eyes turned into countless threads ofws. He could even see through the stone''s principles to the scene behind it.


    X-ray vision?


    Indeed, without using his divine sense, Zhong Shan could see through the stone, directly perceiving whaty behind it. He tested his new ability; for now, it was limited to a depth of ten meters. Beyond that, he could not see through.


    This? Zhong Shan felt a mix of emotions. First, the Hongluan Mist, and now the Hongluan X-ray Vision. Was this cultivation technique, born of heaven and earth, designed specifically for a voyeur? Yet, he found the practice incredibly smooth. Did he have a voyeuristic potential? Zhong Shan sweated profusely at the thought.


    Nevertheless, this Hongluan X-ray Vision was indeed perverse. It allowed objects to be seen as rules and principles, even detailed formations. Zhong Shan could identify the weak points of formations at a nce without understanding them��a truly perverse ability.


    A perverse ability? The Hongluan Mist and Hongluan X-ray Vision might only be side effects.


    The real powery in the eighth level: The Eyes of Fate and Doom!


    Another eye technique! The Reincarnation Eyes of his shadow body were already a perverse ability as an auxiliary skill of the Sutra. What could this main eye technique of the Hongluan Sutra aplish?


    Zhong Shan focused, his eyes slightly closed with a tiny slit. Suddenly, two different lights emanated from the slits of his eyes.


    A deep red light shed in his left eye, while a deep blue light shed in his right eye.


    The Hongluan lotus transformed blue into doom and red into fortune. Clearly, Zhong Shan''s eyes adopted this manifestation: the blue right eye was the Doom Eye, and the red left eye was the Fortune Eye.


    Zhong Shan attempted to open both eyes simultaneously, but he couldn''t. He was puzzled, constantly guessing.


    After a while, Zhong Shan suddenly understood.


    Chapter 818: The Eyes of Fate and Doom


    Returning to his state of deep concentration, Zhong Shan realized the profound significance of the eyes of fortune and doom. They weren''t just about seeing the physical world in different aspects; they were about perceiving the very nature of fate and misfortune within the fabric of reality.


    The Hongluan Sutra was designed to reveal the deeper truths of existence, a cultivation that allowed one to navigate the treacherous paths of fate and destiny. It wasn''t merely about power but understanding the subtle influences that shaped events and oues.


    This breakthrough, although not a direct increase in raw power, would give Zhong Shan an unparalleled advantage in foreseeing and manipting the forces of the world, whether they be auspicious opportunities or looming threats.


    Emerging from his seclusion, Zhong Shan''s resolve was stronger than ever. With the world now unified under his rule, he had the foundation to delve into these deeper mysteries, to harness the full potential of the Hongluan Sutra, and to guide Great Zheng into an era of unprecedented prosperity and stability.


    The Western Sea''s tumultuous environment reflected the inner turbulence Zhong Shan experienced as he pushed the boundaries of his cultivation. Each wave, each gust of wind, mirrored his intense struggle and ultimate triumph in mastering the Hongluan Sutra''s eighth level.


    As Zhong Shan prepared to return to the surface, the sea''s chaotic energy seemed to calm in response to his newfound equilibrium, symbolizing his mastery over both external forces and internal turmoil. The path ahead was clear, and Zhong Shan was ready to lead his dynasty to new heights, with the eyes of fate and doom as his guiding light.


    The Reincarnation Eye, which can open a reincarnation passage��has Zhong Shan mastered it? Not yet. Currently, Zhong Shan has only mastered the "Wheel" aspect, not the "Return." He can use the reincarnation passage to send powerful beings into the cycle, but not bring them back. This is not something Zhong Shan can master now.


    Simrly, the Eyes of Fate and Doom are present, but Zhong Shan cannot use them simultaneously. What happens if he uses just one?


    Zhong Shan closed his right eye and tried to forcefully open his left eye, but it wouldn''t open. He closed his left eye, the red light disappeared, and he slowly opened his right eye. This time, it worked.


    A blue light began to shine from his right eye.


    "Open!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    As Zhong Shan''s right eye opened, his pupil turned a deep blue.


    The Eye of Doom?


    When the Eye of Doom opened, a powerful pressure surged skyward. The moment this terrifying pressure radiated out, the entire Western Sea fell silent. The once turbulent Western Sea and the violent storms above it suddenly calmed. It was as if everything was paralyzed with fear by this horrifying doom.


    Zhong Shan''s left eye saw countless rules of the world suddenly tremble. The terrifying Eye of Doom emitted a menacing aura.


    "Boom!"


    A distant explosion echoed through the sky. Endless red clouds suddenly covered the Western Sea. The sky above the Western Sea was filled with red clouds, and directly above Zhong Shan, the red clouds gathered rapidly, forming a massive, egg-like structure, incrediblyrge, with half of it emerging from the red clouds.


    "Crack!"


    With a loud noise, the giant egg split open, slowly revealing an opening.


    The Eye of Heaven?


    Zhong Shan immediately recognized the Eye of Heaven, which had appeared during ancient times when divine powers created the world.


    The Eye of Heaven, the most terrifying existence in the world, mentioned only in mythological stories as the highest existence of heaven and earth.


    It is said that the Eye of Heaven descends only when an unparalleled demon appears, to deliver heavenly punishment. It manifests only when heaven''s fury and human resentment reach their peak.


    And now, it had appeared again. An unparalleled demon had emerged��was he the unparalleled demon?


    Zhong Shan was speechless. Clearly, this Eye of Heaven was targeting him. But why? Because of his Eye of Doom?


    Eye of Heaven vs. Eye of Doom?


    Despite the peculiarity, Zhong Shan felt a surge of excitement with the emergence of the Eye of Doom. As the Eye of Heaven approached, Zhong Shan felt no fear. Instead, with a sh of blue light from the Eye of Doom, he stared directly at the Eye of Heaven.


    The Eye of Heaven, bloodshot and filled with malevolence, was a terrifying sight that could make mortals'' souls scatter. A crack still ran through it��a scar left by the ancient divine power wielding the Heaven-Cleaving Axe. Zhong Shan could even feel the lingering aura of the axe, simr to his Heaven-Cleaving Twin Palms. Even now, the Eye of Heaven hadn''t fully healed.


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly. Following the method in the Hongluan Heavenly Sutra, his right pupil contracted, and with a sudden opening, arge amount of Hongluan lotus power poured into his right eye, transforming into a terrifying blue light that shot up towards the Eye of Heaven.


    As the blue light shot out, Zhong Shan was shocked. The blue light consumed an enormous amount of mental energy��thousands of times more than the Hongluan X-ray Vision or the Hongluan Mist. Why did it require so much mental energy to transform?


    Despite the staggering energy consumption, Zhong Shan persisted, directing the intense blue light at the Eye of Heaven. The sh of these two mighty forces caused the entire Western Sea to quiver, as if nature itself was reacting to the confrontation.


    The Eye of Heaven, with its crack, seemed to recoil slightly as the blue light struck. The surrounding red clouds churned and twisted, responding to the conflict between the Eye of Heaven and the Eye of Doom.


    Zhong Shan could feel the strain on his mental energy, but the exhration of wielding such power drove him forward. He focused, pushing the blue light further, aiming to test the full extent of his new ability.


    The Eye of Heaven, though immensely powerful, showed signs of strain against the concentrated blue light. Zhong Shan''s determination grew. He realized that mastering the Eye of Doom would grant him a formidable edge, even against celestial forces.


    The Western Sea bore witness to this extraordinary battle of wills and powers, with Zhong Shan standing firm against the might of the heavens. The encounter left an indelible mark on the environment, a testament to the emergence of an unparalleled power in the mortal realm.


    In the aftermath, Zhong Shan withdrew the blue light, panting from the exertion. The Eye of Heaven began to fade, its presence slowly dissipating as the red clouds dispersed. The Western Sea gradually returned to its natural state, though the memory of the sh lingered in the air.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes returned to normal, the blue light gone, but the experience left him with a profound understanding of his new abilities. The Hongluan Heavenly Sutra had revealed anotheryer of its profound mysteries, and Zhong Shan was more determined than ever to master it fully.


    As he resurfaced from the depths of the Western Sea, Zhong Shan felt a renewed sense of purpose. The challenges ahead, both mortal and celestial, were numerous, but with the Eyes of Fate and Doom, he was ready to face them head-on.


    With his newfound power, Zhong Shan knew that the unification of the realm was just the beginning. The true test of his abilities and leadershipy ahead, in navigating the delicate bnce of fate and fortune, doom and destiny. And with each step, he moved closer to bing the supreme ruler of all realms.

 Chapter 818 - 819: The Light of Great Calamity

    <h4>Chapter 818: Chapter 819: The Light of Great Cmity</h4>


    The terrifying consumption of mental energy quickly dimmed the Hongluan pink lotus at Zhong Shan''s brow. However, the lotus root below it acted as a source of energy, rapidly replenishing the pink lotus.


    Zhong Shan had never experienced such an exaggerated consumption of energy before. For a moment, he feared the Hongluan pink lotus might be damaged and even considered abandoning the use of the Eye of Doom. Ultimately, he decided to persist.


    With a gamble, Zhong Shan unleashed a terrifying blue beam from his Eye of Doom, targeting the Eye of Heaven.


    The blue beam consumed nearly all of Zhong Shan''s mental energy but fortunately did not deplete it entirely. Zhong Shan was curious about the full extent of the blue beam''s power. Previously, just opening the Eye of Doom had halted the Western Sea''s storms and calmed countless hurricanes, causing rules and principles to tremble. What would happen now with the blue beam?


    Zhong Shan watched expectantly.


    As the blue beam approached, the Eye of Heaven seemed to show a flicker of panic, sensing the blue beam''s strangeness. But when the blue beam hit the Eye of Heaven, it appeared as if nothing had happened. It seemed like just an ordinary blue light, dissipating without effect��much ado about nothing.


    The Eye of Heaven also showed a hint of confusion, followed by disdain.


    Zhong Shan was stunned. Was that it? Did the blue beam have no effect at all? Consuming nearly all his mental energy for nothing?


    Just as the Eye of Heaven was about to retaliate against Zhong Shan, he finally saw what he was hoping for. Staring at the sky, Zhong Shan''s mouth gaped in astonishment. No way!


    The Eye of Heaven, already scarred by the Heaven-Cleaving Axe of ancient divine power, had been partially healed over the years, though a small section still showed the crack. Zhong Shan could feel the residual ''breaking'' aura of the Heaven-Cleaving Axe, making it difficult for the Eye of Heaven to expel it.


    What was the effect of Zhong Shan''s blue Eye of Doom?


    Suddenly, from the crack left by the Heaven-Cleaving Axe, arge amount of magma-like fluid began to flow out from the Eye of Heaven.


    The Eye of Heaven was "oozing"!


    Zhong Shan''s face twitched.


    At the same time, the Eye of Heaven showed a look of bewilderment, as if surprised by the sudden "oozing." The fluid increased, worsening the injury of the Eye of Heaven. The injury inexplicably worsened.


    "Crack!"


    The crack in the Eye of Heaven, originally left by the Heaven-Cleaving Axe, suddenly widened, infinitely worsening.


    "Boom!"


    The Eye of Heaven exploded with a violent force, causing another storm surge in the Western Sea.


    The enormous crisis dissipated suddenly.


    The Eye of Heaven hade with the intent to eradicate an unparalleled demon, bringing the absolute authority of the small thousand world. Yet, before it could unleash its might, it "oozed" and exploded?


    Such a bizarre event��could it really be just a simple self-destruction?


    The blue beam from Zhong Shan''s Eye of Doom triggered this.


    The destruction of the Eye of Heaven marked the potent capability of the Eye of Doom, revealing its potential to alter the fundamental nature of even the most formidable entities. The blue light was not merely an attack; it was a profound transformation force, capable of exacerbating weaknesses and ws to catastrophic levels.


    Zhong Shan''s exhration grew as heprehended the true power he now wielded. The Eye of Doom, with its capacity to perceive and exploit the deepest vulnerabilities, provided him with an unprecedented edge.


    As the Western Sea calmed, the significance of the Eye of Doom''s power became clear. It was not just about seeing through objects or influencing minor events; it was about reshaping fate and destiny, manipting the very essence of existence.


    Emerging from his confrontation with the Eye of Heaven, Zhong Shan felt a renewed sense of purpose. The unification of the realm was just the beginning. With the Eyes of Fate and Doom, he was poised to navigate the intricate intery of fortune and cmity, guiding Great Zheng towards unparalleled dominance and stability.


    With each step, Zhong Shan moved closer to mastering the profound mysteries of the Hongluan Heavenly Sutra, ready to face both mortal and celestial challenges head-on.


    Zhong Shan realized the nature of the blue light��it was bad luck, misfortune, a curse. While others cultivate to bring good fortune and avoid cmity, the blue Eye of Doom imposed great misfortune on others.


    When the blue light shone on someone, their fortune would drastically decline.


    When the blue light hit, misfortune would follow.


    When the blue light hit, one''s luck would plummet.


    This blue light was not an attack but the source of all disasters.


    The Eye of Heaven initially suppressed the ''breaking'' aura left by the Heaven-Cleaving Axe, but when the blue light struck, misfortune took over, revealing the true extent of the cmity. The previously bnced suppression failed, and negative effects quickly overwhelmed it.


    The Eye of Heaven suffered greatly!


    Even if it represented thews of the small thousand world and punished great evildoers, it couldn''t escape the curse of the blue light. No one in the small thousand world had ever manipted luck like this; the most they could do was leverage circumstances to bring good fortune and avoid cmity. Yet Zhong Shan''s blue Eye of Doom forcibly imposed extreme misfortune.


    Zhong Shan hadn''t expected such a bizarre ability.


    Misfortune? Omen? Disaster? The blue Eye of Doom emitted these twisted elements�� the Light of Great Cmity!


    Zhong Shan felt as if he were dreaming, but the Eye of Heaven''s explosion, induced by the cursed light, was vivid in his memory. It truly exploded. No matter how powerful, once enveloped by the curse, negative influences would multiply infinitely, and a tragic fate would soon follow.


    This ability was too perverse. With his mental energy nearly depleted, it would take at least six months to recover most of it, meaning he couldn''t use the blue Eye of Doom again for that time.


    For now, it would be his trump card. And for Zhong Shan, any trump card could be maximized to its fullest potential. The blue Eye of Doom? The Light of Great Cmity? Too twisted!


    The Eyes of Fate and Doom: the right eye brought doom, the left eye brought fortune. The left eye, by analogy, must be rted to the Light of Great Fortune.


    This was only the eighth level. What woulde next?


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes, sitting in meditation for an hour to calm his excitement.


    The vast world was different from the small thousand world. As Mr. Shi had mentioned, the vast world had countless strong individuals, various eye techniques, and extraordinary abilities.


    Some could manipte reincarnation, some could control space, some could master reality and illusion, and some could even manipte time.


    A vast, powerful world. Was he ready to face it?


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath. The Eyes of Fate and Doom were powerful, but their true strength depended on how they were used. The vast world?��


    Ten dayster, Zhong Shan returned to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The y Bodhisattva came to see him.


    "Your Majesty, I have a report!" the y Bodhisattva said respectfully.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    "Although there is no precedent, I have made a prediction. There is bad news!" the y Bodhisattva said.


    "Bad news?"


    "Yes. The Yin-Yang Hall, set up with the Taiji Diagram to connect the two realms, may be useless after the Great Opening. When the Yin and Yang realms both enter the vast world, it may no longer be able to connect them," the y Bodhisattva said.


    "Oh?"


    "Moreover, the passage between the two realms may close after the Great Opening, separating them again. It''s even possible that the location of the Yang Realm in the vast world may not correspond to the location of the Yin Realm in the vast world," the y Bodhisattva said solemnly.


    Zhong Shan frowned as he pondered.


    "If what you say is true, once the Great Opening urs, the forces of Great Zheng in the Yin and Yang realms will be isted from each other, losing allmunication. One will be in the Yang Realm of the vast world and the other in the Yin Realm of the vast world, unable to find each other in the short term?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    "Yes!" The y Bodhisattva nodded with concern.


    "Alright, I understand. You may go," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, Your Majesty."


    After the y Bodhisattva left, Zhong Shan continued to think. The Great Opening��should Great Zheng merge its forces into one realm? No, he couldn''t abandon the Yin Realm. The world is meant to be conquered; how could he give up on a whole realm? Then, his true body and shadow body would each conquer one realm.


    Eighty yearster, in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, within Zhong Shan''s training hall.


    "Boom!"


    "Crack, crack, crack!" The sound of bones realigning filled the air.


    "Hah!" An excited shout echoed from the training hall.


    He had done it��he reached the twelfth level of the Heaven Extreme Realm! Zhong Shan had relied on his own power to break through from the eleventh to the twelfth level of the Heaven Extreme Realm, achieving the pinnacle of mortal cultivation. His whole body felt unprecedentedlyfortable, as if brimming with power needing to be unleashed.


    A hundred years��a hundred years of time, and Zhong Shan broke through the final barrier. Although a hundred years might seem short, given Zhong Shan''s cultivation speed, it would make many blush with envy. After unifying the world, his cultivation speed had reached five hundred times the normal rate.


    A hundred years of cultivation equated to forty to fifty thousand years for an ordinary person. Forty to fifty thousand years? This period could nurture ten generations of immortals!


    After the initial excitement, Zhong Shan calmed down, rose, and walked out of the hall as usual, preparing to continue the court session.


    Three dayster, in the court.


    Zhong Shan sat on the Nine-Dragon Heavenly Chair, looking at the ministers bowing before him.


    "In another hundred years, Great Zheng will open the heavens!" Zhong Shan formally set the time.


    "Long live Your Majesty! Long live Your Majesty!" The ministers congratted.


    "Now, I will appoint some ministers who will enter the Yin Realm after the Great Opening," Zhong Shan announced.


    Entering the Yin Realm? This meant some ministers would be assigned to the Yin Realm.


    "Yes!" The ministers obeyed.


    At this moment, an old eunuch stood at the holy steps and read the imperial decree from Zhong Shan:


    Entering the Yin Realm as Kings and Dukes:


    Crown Prince, Zhong Zheng!Commander of the Third Legion, Yi Yan!Commander of the Seventh Legion, Yan Chongzhi!Commander of the Eighth Legion, Zhao Suoxiang!Commander of the Ninth Legion, Wang Ku!Commander of the Tenth Legion, Xiao Wang!Commander of the Jinyiwei, Liu Wushuang!Chief Astronomer of the Qintianjian, the y Bodhisattva!Chief Strategist of the Yitianjian, Nangong Sheng!City Overseer, Lu Jianping!


    Remaining in the Yang Realm as Kings and Dukes:


    Crown Prince, Zhong Tian!Commander of the First Legion, Lin Xiao!Commander of the Fourth Legion, Mr. Shi!Commander of the Fifth Legion, Shui Wuhen!Commander of the Sixth Legion, Shui Jing!Deputy Chief Astronomer of the Qintianjian, Tian Lao!

 Chapter 819 - 820: The Day of the Great Opening

    <h4>Chapter 819: Chapter 820: The Day of the Great Opening</h4>


    The ministers of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court were abuzz with discussions regarding the announced list. The distribution differed significantly from what they had expected. Zhong Shan, having announced the list, adjourned the court.


    The news of the appointments quickly spread and reached the ears of those with vested interests.


    Six monthster, in a deste valley in the Yang Realm, where no sects were established and few demonic beasts roamed, a cluster of pces housed some reclusive individuals.


    In the central pce, a man in a green robe stood with his hands behind his back, deep in thought. Those around him passed around a jade slip.


    This man was Yi Lanyue, once of the Yin Realm, the young master of the Yi family who had acquired the divine beast Kunpeng, now the head of the Yi family.


    "Lanyue, why has Zhong Shan arranged things this way? How can he be so assured about the powerhouses outside the small thousand world?" asked the Yi family patriarch.


    "No, Zhong Shan''s nning is meticulous. This distribution list must not be altered; each appointment has its purpose," Yi Lanyue shook his head.


    "When will we leave this realm?"


    "Let''s wait for Zhong Shan to open the heavens," Yi Lanyue replied.


    "Open the heavens? The outside world is already in chaos, with powerhouses gathering. When the heavens open, won''t this small thousand world be ttened in an instant?"


    "No, we must wait for the Great Opening. Firstly, I want to see how Zhong Shan does it. Secondly, I need these years to use the ''Xiaomeng Method'' to persuade our ancestors from the outside world, to ensure they follow my instructions when the timees," Yi Lanyue said.


    "For what?" the Yi family patriarch asked, puzzled.


    "I want to establish a favorable rtionship!" Yi Lanyue said earnestly.


    "A favorable rtionship? With so many powerhouses outside, can Zhong Shan handle it?"


    "I believe Zhong Shan will manage. Even if this world turns to dust, Zhong Shan will escape. Such a person will shine in the vast world. It''s better to provide help when it''s most needed rather than when it''s least needed," Yi Lanyue said confidently.


    "Alright, you''re the head of the family!"��


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court!


    After finalizing the arrangements, Zhong Shan went to the inner pce.


    "Husband, what will we do in a hundred years?" Bao''er asked tentatively.


    "We will go to the Yin Realm together!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "I''m not going!" Bao''er shook her head.


    "Neither am I!" Gu Qianyou shook her head.


    Bei Qingsi also shook her head, and Tian Ling''er refused as well, "I''m not going either!"


    "What''s the matter?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "We want to face the strong enemies of the vast world with you. We want to stay in the Yang Realm!" Bao''er said.


    After Bao''er spoke, the other women nodded.


    "The Yang Realm is too dangerous! It''s better to go to the Yin Realm!" Zhong Shan tried to persuade them.


    "But whether we''re in the Yang Realm or the Yin Realm, it doesn''t matter. That feeling of being watched has never eased. Even if we go to the Yin Realm, the powerhouses of the vast world watching us can still descend to the Yin Realm the moment the heavens open," Bao''er said.


    "But they might not be able to," Zhong Shan said with a hint of hope.


    "Can those who can watch us from the vast world through the barriers between realms be weak? Instead of constantly avoiding them, we should face them directly. Last time, when Tianchenzi tried to harm us, they even protected us. I think it shouldn''t be too dangerous; at least they won''t harm us," Gu Qianyou analyzed.


    Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Husband, let us decide for ourselves this time. We worry about you. Let us stay with you in the Yang Realm," Bao''er pleaded.


    The women all looked at Zhong Shan together.


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes, furrowing his brow deeply and pressing his temples, clearly troubled.


    "What''s wrong, Zhong Shan?" Tian Ling''er asked.


    "Qianyou, you have the highest intellect. You must have guessed what will happen after the Great Opening?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    "Yes! I''ve discussed it with everyone. Because we guessed the oue, we don''t want to stay in the Yin Realm," Gu Qianyou shook her head.


    "Being targeted by such powerful beings means that the Yin and Yang Realms are essentially the same. I''ve been holding onto a sliver of hope, but I know it''s unrealistic. Since you all want to stay in the Yang Realm, then stay. We''ll face the gods and Buddhas together!" Zhong Shan said decisively.


    "Mm!" The women nodded in unison.


    A hundred years passed in the blink of an eye. The ten legionmanders had all reached the peak of mortal cultivation, waiting for Zhong Shan to open the heavens.


    On the seventh day of the seventh month, the day of the Great Opening arrived for Great Zheng.


    At the boundary between the realms, the Yang Realm''s Lingxiao Heavenly Court mirrored that of the Yin Realm. During this time, Lu Jianping had constructed a flying city named Changjing, serving as the heart of Great Zheng in the Yin Realm.


    At the boundary between the realms, both in the Yin and Yang Realms, the forces of Great Zheng gathered. The elite troops of Great Zheng assembled to show their strength. Everyone knew this was a significant day��a day of infinite importance.


    The Emperor was going to open the heavens again, leading the entire world to ascend to the ''Immortal Realm.''


    The entire world belonged to Zhong Shan. Everyone revered Zhong Shan and believed he would seed in opening the heavens.


    At the Southern Gate of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court stood the four empresses, Zhong Tian, Shui Jing, Shui Wuhen, Mr. Shi, Lin Xiao, Tian Lao, Hao Meili, Emperor Xuanzha, Yin Luori, Gui She, and the ministers of the Yang Realm.


    At the Southern Gate of Changjing in the Yin Realm stood Zhong Zheng, Xianxian, Yi Yan, Xiao Wang, Yan Chongzhi, Wang Ku, Zhao Suoxiang, Liu Wushuang, the y Bodhisattva, Lu Jianping, and the ministers of the Yin Realm.


    After this Great Opening, the ministers would be divided, separated by the Yin and Yang Realms.


    Under the gaze of countless people, everyone focused on the boundary between the realms.


    At the boundary in the Yang Realm stood Zhong Shan''s true body, wearing a golden t sky crown and a nine-dragon cloud robe. He stood with his hands behind his back, eyes closed.


    At the boundary in the Yin Realm stood Zhong Shan''s shadow body, simrly adorned with a t sky crown and a nine-dragon cloud robe, hands behind his back, eyes closed.


    Zhong Shan stood there for two hours, motionless, as if taking onest moment to feel the small thousand world and the ultimate power he held.


    "Boom!"


    The sky of the Yang Realm suddenly exploded with a thunderous sound, and endless thunderclouds rapidly gathered. As Zhong Shan''s eyes opened, he began to invoke the heavenly might.


    The gathered ministers and soldiers watched in awe as Zhong Shan stood at the center of the impending storm. His presencemanded respect and fear, embodying the power and determination required to open the heavens.


    In the Yang Realm, Zhong Shan''s true body, with eyes now open, raised his hands to the sky. Thunder roared and lightning crackled around him, converging into a vortex of divine energy. The heavens responded to his call, and the air vibrated with an immense power.


    In the Yin Realm, the shadow body mirrored these actions, invoking simr forces. The sky above Changjing darkened, and a corresponding storm formed, reflecting the actions in the Yang Realm.


    Both bodies of Zhong Shan were now channeling the energies of their respective realms, creating a bridge between them. The boundary between the realms began to shimmer, the air around it bing charged with a palpable energy.


    The ministers, soldiers, and spectators watched in a mix of fear and anticipation. They understood the gravity of the moment��Zhong Shan was not just opening the heavens; he was merging the realms, creating a unified path to the vast world.


    As the energy reached its peak, Zhong Shan''s voice boomed across both realms, "By mymand, let the heavens open!"


    A brilliant light burst forth from the boundary, enveloping both the Lingxiao Heavenly Court and Changjing. The ground shook, and the air was filled with a deafening roar as the realms began to merge.


    For a moment, time seemed to stand still. Then, with a final, resounding crash, the barrier between the realms shattered. The Yin and Yang Realms were now connected, their energies flowing freely between them.


    The Great Opening had seeded.


    Zhong Shan stood tall, the divine energy still crackling around him, his eyes zing with determination. The path to the vast world was now open, and Great Zheng was ready to step into its future, unified and strong.


    The ministers and soldiers cheered, their voices echoing through the newly connected realms. They knew that this was only the beginning. The challenges ahead were great, but with Zhong Shan leading them, they were ready to face whatever the vast world had in store.


    With the realms connected, Zhong Shan turned to his ministers. "We move forward together, as one. Prepare for the journey ahead. The vast world awaits, and we shall conquer it with our strength and unity."


    The ministers bowed deeply, acknowledging the gravity of their mission. The era of Great Zheng''s expansion into the vast world had begun, and with it, a new chapter in the annals of history.


    Zhong Shan looked out over his gathered people, a sense of pride and responsibility filling him. The journey would be long and arduous, but with his trusted allies by his side, there was nothing they could not achieve.


    Together, they would face the gods and Buddhas, the challenges and opportunities of the vast world, and emerge victorious. The future of Great Zheng was bright, and it began with this Great Opening.

 Chapter 820 - 817: A Day in Heaven, a Year on Earth.

    <h4>Chapter 820: Chapter 817: A Day in Heaven, a Year on Earth.</h4>


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    In Tianyuan Pavilion, Zhong Shan dismissed the ministers and sent the empresses away, then sat alone for three or four hours. His mind was filled with images of Wei Kui''er.


    Around midnight, Zhong Shan finally moved. Taking a light breath, he said, "You''re here?"


    "Your servant, Dark Emperor, greets Your Majesty!" A faint figure suddenly appeared in the study, carrying a cloth bag on his back.


    "Dark Emperor? Was everything sessful?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes. When Ye Qingcheng attempted to escape, I caught up with him and killed him. I have brought the Immortal Trapping Sword for Your Majesty!" Dark Emperor replied respectfully.


    Stepping forward, Dark Emperor unwrapped the cloth bag, revealing the Immortal Trapping Sword, and gently ced it on Zhong Shan''s desk.


    Looking at the Immortal Trapping Sword, Zhong Shan nodded. "Dark Emperor, among the ministers of Great Zheng, your cultivation speed is the only one that can keep up with mine. The world praises Emperor Xuanzha for his extraordinary talent, but I believe your talent is no less than his. You defeated Ye Qingcheng, who was at the eleventh level of the Heaven Extreme Realm and wielded the Immortal Trapping Sword?"


    "Thank you for the praise, Your Majesty. I owe my rapid progress to my master. My constitution is suited to his lineage, allowing me to forcibly harness the power of the stars of the night, which greatly facilitates my cultivation," Dark Emperor exined honestly.


    "Hmm, before the Great Opening, you must increase your cultivation to the peak of the mortal realm. At that time, apany me in the Yang Realm to face the gods and Buddhas!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!" Dark Emperor responded.


    Despite the dangers in the Yang Realm, Dark Emperor had noints about staying there��


    In the Yin Realm, south of Changjing, by an isted seaside.


    On the beach, two white figures stood��a man and a woman, Emperor Xuanzha and Xianxian.


    "Grandfather, what are you saying?" Xianxian''s eyes widened in anger.


    "After the Great Opening, I want to do my own thing. I''m leaving the wolves of this world in your hands," Emperor Xuanzha said, shaking his head.


    "Grandfather, how can you do this? What''s wrong with Zhong Shan? Why do you want to betray him?" Xianxian asked anxiously.


    "Betrayal? There''s no betrayal between him and me. The wolves are the national beasts of Great Zheng, but I''m not his subordinate, and currently, there''s no conflict of interest," Emperor Xuanzha said with a frown.


    "But you''re leaving us, why? Am I not good enough?" Xianxian asked, looking pitiful.


    "It''s not that you''re not good enough. You''ll always be my best granddaughter, but you''re too yful," Emperor Xuanzha said, shaking his head.


    "How am I yful?" Xianxian protested.


    "Look at you. You''re still only at the Emperor Extreme Realm."


    "What''s wrong with the Emperor Extreme Realm? At my age, it''s already impressive! And soon, I''ll break through to the Heaven Extreme Realm. Who in the wolf n has cultivated faster than me?" Xianxian said stubbornly.


    "Then why didn''t Zhong Shan let you participate in thest battle?"


    "That''s because, because...!" Xianxian pouted.


    "Zhong Shan has the worst innate talent I''ve ever seen, but he''s diligent and focused. No matter the means or methods, he has raised his strength to the ninth level of the Heaven Extreme Realm. And you? You have better talent than me, yet you still haven''t broken through to the Heaven Extreme Realm!"


    "I..."


    "Grandfather is leaving. You need to work harder from now on!" Emperor Xuanzha said, patting Xianxian''s head.


    "Grandfather, don''t go! Xianxian doesn''t want to leave you. Even though we were once separated by life and death, I could still visit you anytime. But if you leave now, Xianxian won''t be able to find you," Xianxian said, tears streaming down her face.


    In Tianyuan Pavilion, Zhong Shan dismissed the ministers and sent the empresses away, then sat alone for three or four hours. His mind was filled with images of Wei Kui''er.


    Around midnight, Zhong Shan finally moved. Taking a light breath, he said, "You''re here?"


    "Your servant, Dark Emperor, greets Your Majesty!" A faint figure suddenly appeared in the study, carrying a cloth bag on his back.


    "Dark Emperor? Was everything sessful?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes. When Ye Qingcheng attempted to escape, I caught up with him and killed him. I have brought the Immortal Trapping Sword for Your Majesty!" Dark Emperor replied respectfully.


    Stepping forward, Dark Emperor unwrapped the cloth bag, revealing the Immortal Trapping Sword, and gently ced it on Zhong Shan''s desk.


    Looking at the Immortal Trapping Sword, Zhong Shan nodded. "Dark Emperor, among the ministers of Great Zheng, your cultivation speed is the only one that can keep up with mine. The world praises Emperor Xuanzha for his extraordinary talent, but I believe your talent is no less than his. You defeated Ye Qingcheng, who was at the eleventh level of the Heaven Extreme Realm and wielded the Immortal Trapping Sword?"


    "Thank you for the praise, Your Majesty. I owe my rapid progress to my master. My constitution is suited to his lineage, allowing me to forcibly harness the power of the stars of the night, which greatly facilitates my cultivation," Dark Emperor exined honestly.


    "Hmm, before the Great Opening, you must increase your cultivation to the peak of the mortal realm. At that time, apany me in the Yang Realm to face the gods and Buddhas!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!" Dark Emperor responded.


    Despite the dangers in the Yang Realm, Dark Emperor had noints about staying there��


    In the Yin Realm, south of Changjing, by an isted seaside.


    On the beach, two white figures stood��a man and a woman, Emperor Xuanzha and Xianxian.


    "Grandfather, what are you saying?" Xianxian''s eyes widened in anger.


    "After the Great Opening, I want to do my own thing. I''m leaving the wolves of this world in your hands," Emperor Xuanzha said, shaking his head.


    "Grandfather, how can you do this? What''s wrong with Zhong Shan? Why do you want to betray him?" Xianxian asked anxiously.


    "Betrayal? There''s no betrayal between him and me. The wolves are the national beasts of Great Zheng, but I''m not his subordinate, and currently, there''s no conflict of interest," Emperor Xuanzha said with a frown.


    "But you''re leaving us, why? Am I not good enough?" Xianxian asked, looking pitiful.


    "It''s not that you''re not good enough. You''ll always be my best granddaughter, but you''re too yful," Emperor Xuanzha said, shaking his head.


    "How am I yful?" Xianxian protested.


    "Look at you. You''re still only at the Emperor Extreme Realm."


    "What''s wrong with the Emperor Extreme Realm? At my age, it''s already impressive! And soon, I''ll break through to the Heaven Extreme Realm. Who in the wolf n has cultivated faster than me?" Xianxian said stubbornly.


    "Then why didn''t Zhong Shan let you participate in thest battle?"


    "That''s because, because...!" Xianxian pouted.


    "Zhong Shan has the worst innate talent I''ve ever seen, but he''s diligent and focused. No matter the means or methods, he has raised his strength to the ninth level of the Heaven Extreme Realm. And you? You have better talent than me, yet you still haven''t broken through to the Heaven Extreme Realm!"


    "I..."


    "Grandfather is leaving. You need to work harder from now on!" Emperor Xuanzha said, patting Xianxian''s head.


    "Grandfather, don''t go! Xianxian doesn''t want to leave you. Even though we were once separated by life and death, I could still visit you anytime. But if you leave now, Xianxian won''t be able to find you," Xianxian said, tears streaming down her face.


    "I''ve worked hard for the wolf n for thousands of years, and now I want to do something I enjoy. I wille back. After I enter the Holy Realm of Shitian and travel the vast world, I will return!" The former coldness of Emperor Xuanzha was long gone; now he spoke like a gentle grandfather persuading his granddaughter.


    "No, I feel that if you leave, you will nevere back. Grandfather, let me go with you!" Xianxian bit her lip.


    "You don''t want to stay by Zhong Shan''s side?" Emperor Xuanzha asked with a smile.


    Xianxian hesitated for a moment, then finally said, "I want to be with you more!"


    Taking a deep breath, Emperor Xuanzha shook his head. "No, it will be very dangerous where I''m going. I''d be more at ease if you stayed with Zhong Shan. Although he will face pressure from various forces, Zhong Shan''s ability to navigate those waters is unparalleled. He can protect you without a doubt!"


    "But, Grandfather, I��" Xianxian''s tears flowed uncontrobly.


    "Don''t cry. You need to work hard. Think about thest battle��when Zhong Shan needed help the most, you couldn''t be there. Instead, you had to stay in the Yin Realm, protected by Zhong Shan. Does that make you feel satisfied?" Emperor Xuanzha asked.


    "No, it actually made me feel awful. I will work hard from now on!" Xianxian said, holding back her tears.


    "Good. Remember, our wolf n has always been made of heroes, proud and unyielding. We don''t have the innate talents of dragons and phoenixes, but we have our will. We''re not afraid of hardship or exhaustion. We can adapt to any environment and surpass all other beasts!"


    "Yes!" Xianxian nodded resolutely.


    "Even after I leave, I will be blessing you from afar."


    "I won''t let you down!" Xianxian vowed, holding back her tears��


    In the Yang Realm, beneath the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Another year''s imperial examination began.


    Shui Jing and Shui Wuhen supervised the examination.


    Looking at the sea of candidates, Shui Wuhen sighed, "Eight million examinees, truly unbelievable. I never imagined seeing such a scene in my dreams."


    Shui Jing, fanning himself lightly, smiled at the vast crowd. "Zhao Suoxiang and Lin Xiao''s armies are advancing westward. Shenzhou will soon be unified. Many of the selected officials will be sent to the west."


    "Eight million candidates, and only eight hundred will be chosen. Yet, they still fight fiercely for the positions," Shui Wuhen remarked with a sigh.


    "Wuhen, you were personally trained by His Majesty, correct?" Shui Jing asked while fanning himself.


    "Yes, I owe my achievements to His Majesty. All my skills were taught by him or by those he appointed to teach me. I will be grateful to His Majesty for my entire life," Shui Wuhen said, bowing deeply towards the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "His Majesty values you highly because you have exceptional qualities. I can''t see them, but no one can surpass His Majesty in judging people. He saw something in you that we might not notice. Do you know what that is?" Shui Jing asked with curiosity.


    "I don''t know either."


    "Yes, none of us can see it, but His Majesty can, and that''s enough. Perhaps your qualities will only show in critical moments. I envy you," Shui Jing said with a smile.


    "Don''t tease me, Shui Jing. Although I''ve been trained by His Majesty, my wisdom, tactics, military skills, and overall vision are not as good as yours. I envy you," Shui Wuhen said modestly.


    "Didn''t you just wonder why people fight so hard for a position with such slim chances? Have you ever heard this saying?" Shui Jing asked.


    "''A day in Heaven is a year on Earth!''" Shui Jing said confidently.


    "A day in Heaven is a year on Earth?" Shui Wuhen frowned slightly.


    "Yes. Now, only His Majesty fully understands this. Once the heavens open, our Great Zheng''s court will be the ''Heaven,'' and themon people''s realm will be the ''Earth.''" Shui Jing smiled, fanning himself.


    "Oh?"


    "Cultivating in ''Heaven'' for a day is equivalent to cultivating in ''Earth'' for a year or even more! This is why everyone envies ''Heaven.'' Decades of cultivation in Heaven can surpass thousands of years of cultivation on Earth. This is why they are fighting so fiercely for these positions." Shui Jing exined with a smile.


    "A day in Heaven is a year on Earth!" Shui Wuhen nodded in understanding.


    "Who doesn''t desire longevity? Only by joining our court, under the protection of its luck and fortune, can one''s cultivation speed increase, breaking through more levels in a shorter time and extending their lifespan. Joining our court makes it easier to achieve immortality!" Shui Jing continued to smile.


    "The abundant fortune truly drives people mad!"


    "This is just the beginning!" Shui Jing smiled, fanning himself.


    As they spoke, a terrifying aura suddenly spread from the direction of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, pressing down in all directions. With a loud crack, the sky turned a deep purple, extending endlessly into the distance.


    Eight million examinees stopped writing, staring in shock at the eerie purple sky.


    "His Majesty has broken through again!" Shui Wuhen eximed in astonishment.


    "Yes," Shui Jing nodded in admiration.


    Other key figures of Great Zheng also looked toward the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Each minister gazed at the pce with deep reverence and admiration.


    His Majesty had broken through again. Another breakthrough? It wouldn''t be long before the heavens opened. They needed to elerate their cultivation because the higher their strength at the time of the opening, the greater the rewards they would receive.


    Zhong Shan had broken through. The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had swallowed the shattered Immortal Beheading Gourd and the Immortal Trapping Sword, two peerless treasures, causing Zhong Shan''s cultivation to surge rapidly.


    He reached the tenth level of the Heaven Extreme Realm!


    He reached the eleventh level of the Heaven Extreme Realm!


    Only when he reached the eleventh level of the Heaven Extreme Realm did his cultivation''s upward momentum stop. He was just a tiny step away from the peak of the mortal realm.


    Although it was slightly disappointing, Zhong Shan was still very satisfied. With the four Immortal Swords gathered, the four tails of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail now carried the aura of these peerless swords. The Immortal Swords had now truly be history, even their sword soulspletely dissipated.


    For the final level, Zhong Shan nned to break through using his own cultivation efforts.


    The umtion of the court''s fortune had increased Zhong Shan''s cultivation speed to four hundred times the normal rate.


    Twenty-five years of cultivation was equivalent to ten thousand years for an ordinary person. However, even this increase in speed was uncertain in terms of how long it would take Zhong Shan to advance that final level.

 Chapter 821: Rebellion

    <h4>Chapter 821: Rebellion</h4>


    36663636


    In the sky above the mortal realm, boundless thunderclouds gathered, their dark masses stretching endlessly, far surpassing the clouds summoned by ancient gods in the past.


    Within these dark clouds, wild lightning crackled with a roaring fury. These were no ordinary bolts of lightning; they had merged to form dragon-shaped bolts. Roaring, dragon-shaped lightning converged from all directions.


    The roaring thunder dragons shook the entire realm, making the sky and earth tremble. Multicolored thunder dragons, representing ultimate destructive forces, filled the sky.


    Heaven''s mighty thunder?


    Zhong Shan raised his head, a trace of disdain shing in his eyes. This look of disdain seemed to provoke the countless thunder dragons. Like a waterfall from the heavens, the terrifying thunder dragons roared as they surged towards Zhong Shan.


    "Roar������������������������������������!" "Roar������������������������������������!" "Boom������������������������������������!" ...


    Thousands of thunder dragons plunged down with terrifying momentum, tearing the space above apart as they descended with the power of the heavens.


    Tian Ling''er covered her mouth, her eyes wide with a sh of worry. Zhong Shan raised his hand, and the Fang Tian Seal soared skyward.


    As the Fang Tian Seal ascended, it rapidly erged, transforming into a colossal seal spanning miles, ready to meet the oing thunder dragons.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    With a violent collision, thousands of thunder dragons exploded on the spot. The Fang Tian Seal continued its ascent, shattering the space around it. In an instant, it reached the boundless thunderclouds.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    Time seemed to freeze at that moment. The dark clouds shattered under the impact of the Fang Tian Seal, scattering in all directions.


    A single seal dispersed the heavens!


    Effortlessly, Zhong Shan had dispelled the first heavenly tribtion. Some had seen the ancient god''s dispersing seal in the past, but its power couldn''tpare to Zhong Shan''s seal.


    First, Zhong Shan''s Fang Tian Seal was immenselyrger. Secondly, after the seal dispersed the heavens, a massive ck hole appeared in the sky. Even when Zhong Shan retracted the Fang Tian Seal, the ck hole slowly recovered, but a frame with eight characters inside it remained, unable to heal.


    "Heaven''s Mandate, Eternal Prosperity!"


    Zhong Shan''s seal had imprinted a grand mark on the sky, one that couldn''t fade. Even under thews of heaven and earth, the ck hole shaped by these characters couldn''t be filled.


    People watched this scene in shock, holding their breath, astonished by their ruler''s power.


    The Sovereign hadn''t even utilized the power of the Daxia realm, nor had the underworld begun its tribtion.


    Imprinting a grand seal on the heavens? The seal remaining was akin to an insult to the heavens.


    Thus, the heavens knew this wasn''t a simple mortal tribtion but the creation of a new world. It was the opening of the heavens and the earth.


    Above the eight characters, the sky rumbled, and endless red clouds gathered.


    More and more red clouds amassed, slowly forming a colossal smooth surface, half embedded in the red clouds and half exposed.


    In the sky above the mortal realm, boundless thunderclouds gathered, their dark masses stretching endlessly, far surpassing the clouds summoned by ancient gods in the past.


    Within these dark clouds, wild lightning crackled with a roaring fury. These were no ordinary bolts of lightning; they had merged to form dragon-shaped bolts. Roaring, dragon-shaped lightning converged from all directions.


    The roaring thunder dragons shook the entire realm, making the sky and earth tremble. Multicolored thunder dragons, representing ultimate destructive forces, filled the sky.


    Heaven''s mighty thunder?


    Zhong Shan raised his head, a trace of disdain shing in his eyes. This look of disdain seemed to provoke the countless thunder dragons. Like a waterfall from the heavens, the terrifying thunder dragons roared as they surged towards Zhong Shan.


    "Roar������������������������������������!" "Roar������������������������������������!" "Boom������������������������������������!" ...


    Thousands of thunder dragons plunged down with terrifying momentum, tearing the space above apart as they descended with the power of the heavens.


    Tian Ling''er covered her mouth, her eyes wide with a sh of worry. Zhong Shan raised his hand, and the Fang Tian Seal soared skyward.


    As the Fang Tian Seal ascended, it rapidly erged, transforming into a colossal seal spanning miles, ready to meet the oing thunder dragons.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    With a violent collision, thousands of thunder dragons exploded on the spot. The Fang Tian Seal continued its ascent, shattering the space around it. In an instant, it reached the boundless thunderclouds.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    Time seemed to freeze at that moment. The dark clouds shattered under the impact of the Fang Tian Seal, scattering in all directions.


    A single seal dispersed the heavens!


    Effortlessly, Zhong Shan had dispelled the first heavenly tribtion. Some had seen the ancient god''s dispersing seal in the past, but its power couldn''tpare to Zhong Shan''s seal.


    First, Zhong Shan''s Fang Tian Seal was immenselyrger. Secondly, after the seal dispersed the heavens, a massive ck hole appeared in the sky. Even when Zhong Shan retracted the Fang Tian Seal, the ck hole slowly recovered, but a frame with eight characters inside it remained, unable to heal.


    "Heaven''s Mandate, Eternal Prosperity!"


    Zhong Shan''s seal had imprinted a grand mark on the sky, one that couldn''t fade. Even under thews of heaven and earth, the ck hole shaped by these characters couldn''t be filled.


    People watched this scene in shock, holding their breath, astonished by their ruler''s power.


    The Sovereign hadn''t even utilized the power of the Daxia realm, nor had the underworld begun its tribtion.


    Imprinting a grand seal on the heavens? The seal remaining was akin to an insult to the heavens.


    Thus, the heavens knew this wasn''t a simple mortal tribtion but the creation of a new world. It was the opening of the heavens and the earth.


    Above the eight characters, the sky rumbled, and endless red clouds gathered.


    More and more red clouds amassed, slowly forming a colossal smooth surface, half embedded in the red clouds and half exposed.


    The Eye of Heaven!


    The Eye of Heaven appeared once more. Everyone knew the Eye of Heaven couldn''t do anything to Zhong Shan, but how would Zhong Shan face it? The Eye of Heaven had been the strongest existence in this world until the ancient god broke its myth with the Heaven-Opening Axe. How would Zhong Shan confront it?


    How to confront it? No one knew Zhong Shan had already faced it once before.


    As the enormous Eye of Heaven slowly opened, its boundless might pressed deeply into everyone''s hearts,pelling a sense of worship, an absolute oppressive force.


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the ministers watched intently.


    In a distant valley near the mouth of the two realms, Yi Lanque and his n observed the Eye of Heaven from afar, brows furrowed.


    On the other side of the two realms, another figure stood�� a man in ck robes holding a long sword. The sword was sheathed, but it seemed fused with his body. A crimson me mark burned between the man''s brows, exuding a fierce aura.


    If Zhong Shan were here, he would immediately recognize Zhao Tiansha!


    Once the eldest disciple of the Kaiyang Sect, Zhao Tiansha had mastered the ''Heaven-ying Sword Technique.'' Before Zhong Shan appeared, he was a peerless prodigy, but his fortunes changed after Zhong Shan''s rise. The women he once pursued, Bei Qingsi and Tian Ling''er, both ended up with Zhong Shan. Influenced by Zhong Shan, Zhao Tiansha''s path of ughter ascended rapidly.


    Yet, Zhao Tiansha still dared not challenge Zhong Shan directly, at least not now.


    Watching the Eye of Heaven, the crimson me between Zhao Tiansha''s brows red. He narrowed his eyes, ring coldly at Zhong Shan from afar.


    Let''s see how you die!


    The Eye of Heaven opened, still bearing the scars left by the ancient god, but nowrger than before. Clearly, the devastating impact of the Ancient God''s strike had been immense.


    Someone seeking to open the heavens and earth would naturally provoke the Eye of Heaven''s wrath. Filled with boundless anger, it gazed down at the one daring to offend its might.


    But upon seeing the offender, the blood-red pupil of the Eye of Heaven contracted in an eerie manner.


    It''s him? That monster?


    Zhong Shan gazed calmly at the Eye of Heaven, and the Eye stared back at him.


    Thus began their stalemate.


    "What''s going on? Why isn''t the Eye of Heaven moving?" the Yi n''s ancestor asked.


    "I don''t know, it''s strange!" Yi Lanque also couldn''t understand.


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, ministers watched in confusion. What happened to the Eye of Heaven? Where was its earlier domineering aura? What happened to the strength it showed against the ancient god? Had it been dumbfounded by the ancient god''s strike? Now it was unresponsive?


    Dumbfounded? Impossible. The Eye of Heaven represented the authority of the Small Thousand World and its heavenlyw. It should have no emotions, only instincts.


    As people watched in bewilderment, something strange urred.


    The endless red clouds slowly dispersed, and the gigantic Eye of Heaven began to close as if retreating.


    Everyone was stunned. What had the Eye of Heavene for? Was it retreating? Had it been frightened away by Zhong Shan?


    Such an absurd exnation seemed to be the only one. Was the Eye of Heaven scared off? In the past, anyone suggesting this would be deemed insane. The Eye of Heaven, representing the heavenlyw of the Small Thousand World, could be scared off?


    Yet the truth was before their eyes. The Eye of Heaven was indeed slowly disappearing, seemingly unwilling to confront Zhong Shan.


    "Do you still have a way out?!" Zhong Shan suddenly shouted.


    Zhong Shan shouted loudly, his eyes fixed on the sky, staring at the Eye of Heaven.


    Everyone found this bizarre��what was the Sovereign doing? Was he speaking to the Eye of Heaven? Could it even understand?


    But reality often defied everyone''s expectations. Just as the Eye of Heaven was about to retreat, it suddenly stopped. The red clouds churned again, and the half-closed Eye of Heaven reopened.


    The colossal Eye of Heaven stared resolutely at Zhong Shan, as if ready to fight him to the death.


    Zhong Shan suddenly extended his right hand, twisting it towards the sky. A massive pulling force immediately enveloped the Eye of Heaven, and it seemed as if countless beams of white light shot down from it, being drawn into Zhong Shan''s hand.


    At this moment, the crack in the Eye of Heaven slowly began to disappear. Zhong Shan, possessing the Heaven-Opening Palm, naturally could extract the destructive intent from the Heaven-Opening Axe.


    The Eye of Heaven showed a hint of confusion, as did the people below. What was the Sovereign doing? Healing the Eye of Heaven?


    After the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, the Eye of Heaven was fully restored.


    Immediately, the Eye of Heaven grew fiercer, ring at Zhong Shan with boundless killing intent.


    Looking up at the Eye of Heaven, Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes, a sh of ferocity crossing them. The Eye of Heaven''s previous killing intent seemed to vanish.


    With a whoosh, Zhong Shan stomped the ground and shot into the sky, reaching close to the Eye of Heaven in an instant.


    The pupil of the Eye of Heaven contracted again, ascending higher into the sky.


    "I know you''re no longer an ordinary Eye of Heaven. An ordinary Eye of Heaven wouldn''t have so much expression. I don''t care why you''ve developed your own ''spirit,'' but I need to tell you, once the heavens are opened, you''ll vanish like smoke because you are merely the representative of the Small Thousand World''s authority. Without the Small Thousand World, you will cease to exist," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    The Eye of Heaven stared at Zhong Shan without attacking, as if waiting for him to continue.


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Sister, why is Zhong Shan flying so high? Is he talking? Really?" Tian Ling''er asked.


    "He should be," Bao''er nodded.


    "But why can''t we hear anything?"


    "Father probably set up an istion array around him, preventing the sound from traveling," Bao''er guessed.


    Not just the empresses, everyone was filled with curiosity. Why was the Sovereign''s heaven-opening so different from the ancient god''s?


    No matter how people spected, it didn''t stop them from watching intently.


    Zhong Shan continued speaking to the Eye of Heaven: "You''re not my opponent. Attacking me will only result in the same oue��your destruction. And this world, this Small Thousand World, I will break! Do you believe that?"


    "You have no way out. Either be destroyed by me or vanish when the Small Thousand World disappears. Complete annihtion," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    The Eye of Heaven remained motionless.


    "I can give you a third option. Follow me," Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    Follow me? If anyone had heard this, they would think Zhong Shan was crazy. What was he doing? Trying to win over the Eye of Heaven? Making it turn against the heavens?


    How could that be possible? The Eye of Heaven was part of the world itself. How could it be turned? It was too absurd!


    "You know I have the capability, Eye of Heaven of the Small Thousand World. If you follow me, I can make you reign supreme in the Great Thousand World, make you grow stronger on this extreme foundation, make you disregard the Great Thousand World''s heavenlyws, and make you overlook the Great Thousand World," Zhong Shan tempted.

 Chapter 822: Heaven and Earth Furnace Forging a Great Treasure

    <h4>Chapter 822: Heaven and Earth Furnace Forging a Great Treasure</h4>


    Zhong Shan continued to persuade the Eye of Heaven.


    His temptation was extremely enticing. Entering the Great Thousand World? Could that be possible? Was it realistic?


    "You have no choice: either dissipate like smoke or follow me to dominate the world. You are still too weak, and the Small Thousand World cannot offer you anything significant. Only I can provide you with stronger power. I am the strongest in this realm, and only I have this qualification. I possess ''Heaven.'' After I open the heavens, I will have my own ''world,'' and you can enter my ''world'' and leave this realm with me!" Zhong Shan continued to entice.


    ...


    Zhong Shan stayed in front of the Eye of Heaven for about two hours.


    During these two hours, no one knew what Zhong Shan was doing, nor did anyone understand what the Eye of Heaven was up to. Two forces that should be absolute enemies were instead ambiguously close, a sight filled with incredibility.


    People couldn''tprehend the Sovereign, and even Di Xuansha and others found Zhong Shan increasingly unfathomable. They didn''t know what the Sovereign was doing.


    After two hours, Zhong Shan descended from the sky and stood at the mouth of the two realms again.


    The Eye of Heaven remained in the sky but did not attack Zhong Shan.


    Di Xuansha and others looked at Zhong Shan strangely. Could it be true, as Kong Xuan had once described, that Zhong Shan''s greatest strength wasn''t his power, but his words? Had he defeated the Eye of Heaven with his words?


    The ministers were dumbfounded by this scene.


    "Que''er, what''s going on? Why do I understand less and less?" Yi n''s patriarch asked in confusion.


    "You don''t understand? I haven''t figured it out either!" Yi Lanque''s eyes also shed with a strange light.


    In another location, Zhao Tiansha watched this scene with great turmoil. Again, it was like this. As long as Zhong Shan was there, nothing would go as he expected. Why was it always like this?


    Zhong Shannded at the mouth of the two realms, drawing everyone''s attention again. What was the Sovereign nning?


    As soon as Zhong Shannded, he suddenly waved his hand. Before him appeared a three-dimensional image formed by a spell, filled with various mountains, rivers, and dense clouds enveloping the mountains.


    A condensed map of mountains and rivers.


    The same was true in the underworld. In front of Zhong Shan''s shadow body, a simr three-dimensional image appeared, depicting andscape with mountains and water.


    "The Map of Rivers and Mountains?" Di Xuansha''s pupils contracted.


    The Map of Rivers and Mountains? Shui Jing''s eyes narrowed as he looked at Di Xuansha. The sacred treasure of the past, the Map of Rivers and Mountains, among those present, perhaps only Di Xuansha had seen it before. Could the pattern Zhong Shan was forming now be the Map of Rivers and Mountains?


    Indeed, the pattern Zhong Shan conjured was the Map of Rivers and Mountains, a sacred treasure crafting method left by Nie Fancheng when he left this realm. However, Zhong Shan had never found the materials to craft it, so he had not made it until now. Was he nning to craft the Map of Rivers and Mountains at the moment of opening the heavens?


    "Whoosh������������������������������������������������!"


    Suddenly, a fierce wind arose around Zhong Shan, lifting sand and stones. The powerful wind radiated outwards, darkening the sky and earth. The terrifying radiation spread over hundreds, thousands, billions, and trillions of miles!


    The terrifying and eerie wind seemed to sweep across the entire world in an instant, even causing monstrous waves in the Four Seas.


    Covering the entire yang realm? No, the yin realm was also affected, radiating across the entire world. Perhaps only when Zhong Shan''s divine image had infinite ''qi'' and seven-colored light above his head could this be achieved. But what was happening now? The seven-colored qi on the Lingxiao Heavenly Court hadn''t formed yet.


    How was this being done?


    How was this done? It was Zhong Shan who did it, and it was during those two hours that Zhong Shan persuaded the Eye of Heaven.


    The Eye of Heaven was now channeling the essence of the heavens and earth from the Small Thousand World, gathering boundless terrestrial power and converging it towards Zhong Shan''s ''Map of Rivers and Mountains.''


    Typically, to forge the Map of Rivers and Mountains, one would first find a medium, then forge the framework of the map on it, and then continue refining. But now, without a medium, Zhong Shan was forging the framework out of thin air? Creating the most solid framework?


    The essence of the heavens and earth, stolen by the Eye of Heaven, was now being used to forge a treasure for Zhong Shan?


    As the Map of Rivers and Mountains was being forged, at the mouth of the two realms, a circr passage connecting the two realms suddenly had ck and white energy appear within it, rotating around the circr passage and forming a Taiji Yin-Yang fish, slowly turning.


    "Taiji Diagram?" At the Nanjing Gate in Changjing, Yin Realm, the Mud Buddha''s expression shifted.


    "Precisely the Taiji Diagram. Is the Sovereign forging the Taiji Diagram?" Nangong Sheng said in shock.


    The Taiji Diagram, once the supreme treasure of the Nether Heaven, had its forging method passed down but was lost by the time it reached Nangong Sheng''s generation. However, Jian Ao, upon his rebirth, recreated the forging method from his past life''s memories.


    Before his ascension, Jian Ao had shared the forging method of the Taiji Diagram with Zhong Shan during a plum blossom wine discussion on heroes.


    What was Zhong Shan doing now? Forging the Taiji Diagram?


    Both the Taiji Diagram and the Map of Rivers and Mountains required a medium, yet Zhong Shan was preemptively forging their frameworks without one?


    Medium? What would serve as the medium for these two treasures?


    The Eye of Heaven was now constantly gathering the strongest essence to forge the most powerful Map of Rivers and Mountains and the strongest Taiji Diagram for Zhong Shan.


    Using the entire Small Thousand World''s power for forging?


    After about an hour of numbness, it seemed the forging was nearlyplete. In the Yang Realm, Zhong Shan moved the framework of the Map of Rivers and Mountains to the Yang fish of the Taiji Diagram, and in the Yin Realm, he moved it to the Yin fish.


    With the world''s power, he fused the two frameworks together.


    Unification?


    Nearly everyone who saw this was bewildered, but the faces of Mud Buddha, Nangong Sheng, and Di Xuansha twitched.


    Fusing the Taiji Diagram with the Map of Rivers and Mountains? Was that possible?


    Yes, Zhong Shan had been calcting this for hundreds of years. He had the mostprehensive method for merging sacred treasures. Now, using the world as a great furnace, he could fuse them.


    Using the world''s power to forge sacred treasures? Perhaps only Zhong Shan could be so fortunate.


    The framework of the Map of Rivers and Mountains slowly merged into the Taiji Diagram.


    The frameworks fused perfectly together, but where was the medium? It was like a painting; it needed paper to be sustained, otherwise, it would eventually dissipate.


    Where was the medium? Zhong Shan had already nned this.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    "Boom-kach������������������������������������������������!"


    ...


    The essence of the heavens and earth was being used to forge Zhong Shan''s treasure. Mountains withered, high peaks copsed, and natural disasters ensued, alerting the world''s heavenly consciousness. Soon, the culprit was discovered: the Eye of Heaven.


    The Eye of Heaven was actually destroying this world? Helping an outsider extract its energy?


    Suddenly, the Eye of Heaven''s betrayal was exposed. The heavens roared, the earth quaked, and the world was furious. Being betrayed? Anyone confirming this would be enraged, especially the heavens.


    A powerful explosion resounded, and endless lightning surged from all directions, striking the Eye of Heaven. Wind, fire, earth, water, thunder��all kinds of terrifying energies assaulted it from every direction, attempting to destroy the Eye of Heaven in an instant.


    With the Eye of Heaven''s betrayal, it had to be immediately annihted.


    For a moment, the sky above the mouth of the two realms was filled with colorful, infinite energy beams. The high-altitude space shatteredpletely, forcing the Daxia army to retreat, as the entire world seemed to be shaking.


    The Lingxiao Heavenly Court in the Yang Realm and Changjing in the Yin Realm both retreated rapidly, moving back in the trembling world. It was all too strange.


    The red clouds surrounding the Eye of Heaven rapidly dissipated, diminishing more and more.


    The gigantic Eye of Heaven was now filled with panic. When the heavens want you dead, you have no choice but to perish!


    Under the terrifying assault, the Eye of Heaven shrank, bing smaller and smaller, hoping that reducing its size might ease the onught, letting the infinite energy overflow.


    But the ferocity of the heavens was too intense. Wave after wave, the Eye of Heaven soon shrank to a size of only ten thousand feet.


    "Boom������������������������������!"


    In its moment of despair, a purple light suddenly blocked the surrounding energies'' invasion. Around the Eye of Heaven, there was suddenly a sea of purple.


    Had the heavens epted the Eye of Heaven again?


    No, this wasn''t the original heavens. This was Zhong Shan''s ''Heaven,'' a realm of purple skies and shing lightning.


    The ''spirit'' of the Eye of Heaven, along with its remaining power, was epassed by Zhong Shan''s ''Heaven.'' The external world suddenly couldn''t sense the Eye of Heaven anymore, and the previous assaults ceased.


    However, within Zhong Shan''s ''Heaven,'' the Eye of Heaven continued to shrink, bing smaller and smaller, as if unable to survive after being detached from its original world.


    "Merge with my ''Heaven,'' be one with it, or you will surely dissipate!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Merge with Zhong Shan''s ''Heaven''? The Eye of Heaven looked deeply at Zhong Shan, filled with helplessness. It knew that once it merged with Zhong Shan''s Heaven, it would lose its freedompletely, forever bing a part of Zhong Shan''s ''Heaven.''


    "Do you have any other choice?" Zhong Shan asked sternly.


    After another deep look at Zhong Shan, the now thousand-foot Eye of Heaven, full of resignation, slowly moved into the purple heaven, gradually merging with it.


    The once blood-red pupil slowly turned purple after merging, forming an eye with a purple pupil.


    "In my ''Heaven,'' the raging thunder will be under yourmand. From now on, you will be called ''Heaven''s Punishment,''" Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    The purple Heaven''s Punishment Eye, having fully integrated into Zhong Shan''s ''Heaven,'' shrank to a size of only one hundred feet, appearing very weak. It closed its eye and slowly disappeared into the boundless purple sky and clouds.

 Chapter 823: Breaking the Primordial Chaos

    <h4>Chapter 823: Breaking the Primordial Chaos</h4>


    "In my ''Heaven,'' the raging thunder will be under yourmand. From now on, you will be called ''Heaven''s Punishment,''" Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    The purple Eye of Heaven''s Punishment, having fully integrated into Zhong Shan''s ''Heaven,'' shrank to a size of only one hundred feet, appearing very weak. It closed its eye and slowly disappeared into the boundless purple sky and clouds.


    The onught of heavenly disasters resulted in countless ck holes in this world, with space trembling incessantly. Therefore, no one witnessed Zhong Shan absorbing the Eye of Heaven; they only felt a purple light envelop the surroundings, and then it was gone. People retreated in shock.


    As space gradually stabilized, the Taiji Diagram and the frameworks of the two Maps of Rivers and Mountains perfectly fused at the mouth of the two realms.


    In the sky, after the Eye of Heaven''s betrayal, the heavens were enraged��an unforgivable offense. Likewise, Zhong Shan, the primary culprit, faced the wrath of the heavens.


    The powers from all directions quickly converged in the sky, gradually forming a mass of colorful clouds. The clouds grew thicker, eventually forming a smooth, egg-shaped surface.


    "What is that?" Shui Wuhen frowned.


    "The Eye of Heaven," Di Xuansha said gravely.


    "The Eye of Heaven? Wasn''t it destroyed by the heavens just now?" Shui Wuhen asked in confusion.


    "Yes, the previous Eye of Heaven was destroyed. This is a new Eye of Heaven, reformed by the heavens to battle the Sovereign again!" Shui Jing exined.


    Zhong Shan watched the constantly forming new Eye of Heaven, a cold gleam shing in his eyes.


    "Citizens of Daxia, hear mymand!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    His voice, carried by boundless fortune, spread to all corners of the world. Throughout the entire divinend of Shenzhou and the Four Seas, all of Zhong Shan''s subjects heard his words clearly.


    Almost everyone stopped what they were doing to listen to the Sovereign''s decree.


    "Extend your right hand and lend me your strength to open the heavens and create the earth!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    Zhong Shan''s voice instantly reached the entire world, not only the Yang Realm but also the endless Yin Realm. All the subjects heard Zhong Shan''s voice.


    "Long live the Sovereign! Long live, long live, long live������������������������������������������������!"


    The citizens of Daxia, the ministers, and even the wolf tribe, phoenix tribe, Xuanwu tribe, dragon tribe, and tiger tribe all raised their right hands. A mysterious power suddenly drew strength from everyone, gathering the immense life force and spirit energy from all directions, converging towards the Lingxiao Heavenly Court and Changjing.


    Then, the power of the Yang Realm frantically gathered at Zhong Shan''s physical form, and the power of the Yin Realm rapidly converged at Zhong Shan''s shadow body.


    Yang Realm:


    Zhong Shan''s body began to grow rapidly, terrifyingly so.


    Hundred feet, thousand feet, ten thousand feet, hundred miles, thousand miles, ten thousand miles, hundred thousand miles, million miles!


    The terrifying power of Daxia was embodied in a figure a million miles tall.


    Zhong Shan''s body reached a million miles in height, an awe-inspiring sight, towering over the heavens and standing firm on the earth. People could only look up in shock to see Zhong Shan''s face.


    However, this growth showed no sign of stopping, continuing to expand terrifically.


    The ancient god borrowed the power of the Da Luo World, but Zhong Shan now borrowed the power of the entire Small Thousand World.


    It was too immense. Zhong Shan''s knees were already enveloped in clouds and mist.


    Zhong Shan''s whole body was filled with tumultuous power, iparably domineering. Merely moving his legs caused the surrounding space to tremble.


    Chapter 824: Shattering the Primordial Chaos


    Zhong Shan''s voice echoed across the realms, reverberating through every corner of the world. "From now on, the heavens'' wrath shall be under yourmand, Heaven''s Punishment."


    The purple eye of Heaven''s Punishment, fully integrated into Zhong Shan''s ''Heaven,'' shrank to a mere hundred feet, appearing weak and exhausted. It closed its eye and slowly disappeared into the endless expanse of purple clouds.


    The onught of heavenly disasters resulted in countless ck holes in this world, with space trembling incessantly. Therefore, no one witnessed Zhong Shan absorbing the Eye of Heaven; they only felt a purple light envelop the surroundings, and then it was gone. People retreated in shock.


    As space gradually stabilized, the Taiji Diagram and the frameworks of the two Maps of Rivers and Mountains perfectly fused at the mouth of the two realms.


    In the sky, after the Eye of Heaven''s betrayal, the heavens were enraged��an unforgivable offense. Likewise, Zhong Shan, the primary culprit, faced the wrath of the heavens.


    The powers from all directions quickly converged in the sky, gradually forming a mass of colorful clouds. The clouds grew thicker, eventually forming a smooth, egg-shaped surface.


    "What is that?" Shui Wuhen frowned.


    "The Eye of Heaven," Di Xuansha said gravely.


    "The Eye of Heaven? Wasn''t it destroyed by the heavens just now?" Shui Wuhen asked in confusion.


    "Yes, the previous Eye of Heaven was destroyed. This is a new Eye of Heaven, reformed by the heavens to battle the Sovereign again!" Shui Jing exined.


    Zhong Shan watched the constantly forming new Eye of Heaven, a cold gleam shing in his eyes.


    "Citizens of Daxia, hear mymand!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    His voice, carried by boundless fortune, spread to all corners of the world. Throughout the entire divinend of Shenzhou and the Four Seas, all of Zhong Shan''s subjects heard his words clearly.


    Almost everyone stopped what they were doing to listen to the Sovereign''s decree.


    "Extend your right hand and lend me your strength to open the heavens and create the earth!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    Zhong Shan''s voice instantly reached the entire world, not only the Yang Realm but also the endless Yin Realm. All the subjects heard Zhong Shan''s voice.


    "Long live the Sovereign! Long live, long live, long live������������������������������������������������!"


    The citizens of Daxia, the ministers, and even the wolf tribe, phoenix tribe, Xuanwu tribe, dragon tribe, and tiger tribe all raised their right hands. A mysterious power suddenly drew strength from everyone, gathering the immense life force and spirit energy from all directions, converging towards the Lingxiao Heavenly Court and Changjing.


    Then, the power of the Yang Realm frantically gathered at Zhong Shan''s physical form, and the power of the Yin Realm rapidly converged at Zhong Shan''s shadow body.


    Yang Realm:


    Zhong Shan''s body began to grow rapidly, terrifyingly so.


    Hundred feet, thousand feet, ten thousand feet, hundred miles, thousand miles, ten thousand miles, hundred thousand miles, million miles!


    The terrifying power of Daxia was embodied in a figure a million miles tall.


    Zhong Shan''s body reached a million miles in height, an awe-inspiring sight, towering over the heavens and standing firm on the earth. People could only look up in shock to see Zhong Shan''s face.


    However, this growth showed no sign of stopping, continuing to expand terrifically.


    The ancient god borrowed the power of the Da Luo World, but Zhong Shan now borrowed the power of the entire Small Thousand World.


    It was too immense. Zhong Shan''s knees were already enveloped in clouds and mist.


    Zhong Shan''s whole body was filled with tumultuous power, iparably domineering. Merely moving his legs caused the surrounding space to tremble.


    The new Eye of Heaven formed, weaker than the original, but still incredibly domineering.


    As soon as the Eye of Heaven opened, its multicolored pupil stared directly at Zhong Shan. But at this moment, Zhong Shan''s body had already grown to an immense size, towering before it.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with disdain as he looked at the newly formed Eye of Heaven. He extended his right hand, and as it reached out, his palm became enveloped in boundless clouds and smoke. Numerous runes emanated silver light around Zhong Shan''s hands, exuding a powerful and domineering aura.


    The Heaven-Opening Palm extended straight towards the new multicolored Eye of Heaven.


    The enormous palm, not at all smaller than the Eye of Heaven, plunged into the clouds, and Zhong Shan''s Heaven-Opening Palm firmly grasped the Eye of Heaven.


    People all around the mouth of the two realms showed expressions of shock.


    Zhao Tiansha, holding his long sword, felt his face turn alternately green and purple, deeply wounded in his pride. This single scene had severely hurt Zhao Tiansha''s self-esteem. It was too devastating.


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, though everyone was shocked, they were more excited. The Sovereign had actually seized the multicolored Eye of Heaven with one hand?


    What was the Sovereign going to do?


    "What is Zhong Shan doing?" Bei Qingsi asked, a rare moment of curiosity.


    "Perhaps...!" Gu Qianyou frowned.


    "Hard to say!" Bao''er shook her head.


    "I know!" Hao Meili suddenly said excitedly.


    "Huh?" Everyone looked at Hao Meili in confusion.


    "Zhong Shan is going to gouge out the Eye of Heaven''s eyeball!" Hao Meili said, her eyes shining.


    Gouge out the eyeball?


    Everyone''s faces twitched. Hao Meili was indeed unique in her thinking, always different from others.


    In the distant valley:


    "Que''er, you were right. Zhong Shan is terrifying! Those hands are unbelievable!" The Yi n''s patriarch''s face stiffened.


    "Yes!" Yi Lanque took a deep breath.


    "What is he going to do?" the patriarch asked.


    "We''ll know soon enough."


    Indeed, Zhong Shan quickly showed everyone the answer with his actions.


    "Explode��������������������������!"


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    With a loud shout, Zhong Shan exerted force with his right hand. The enormous multicolored Eye of Heaven was crushed in his grip.


    A thunderous explosion echoed across the world, filling every corner with its sound.


    Crushed?


    Many people''s faces twitched. The Sovereign was too domineering. The newly formed Eye of Heaven had been crushed with one hand?


    After crushing the Eye of Heaven, Zhong Shan''s main body was ready to open the heavens?


    As everyone watched in anticipation, Zhong Shan''s main body suddenly stepped into the mouth of the two realms, passing through the center of the Taiji Diagram and the Map of Rivers and Mountains.


    The main body of Zhong Shan in the Yang Realm had entered the Yin Realm?


    Staring at the now-empty mouth of the two realms, everyone in the Yang Realm was stunned.


    Just as he was about to open the heavens, where had the Sovereign gone? Where was the Sovereign?


    Chapter 824: Shattering the Primordial Chaos


    Zhong Shan''s immense form moved with a confidence that seemed to dwarf the very heavens and earth. His action of crushing the Eye of Heaven, despite its formidable appearance, left no doubt about his absolute dominance. With each step, the ground trembled, and the sky seemed to bow before him.


    The lingering question of his next move hung heavily in the air as his presence vanished into the Yin Realm, leaving behind an aura of both dread and awe.


    Back in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court and Changjing, the confusion and anticipation among the onlookers grew. The people who had just witnessed Zhong Shan''s incredible feat were now left with a void, pondering the implications of his actions.


    "Where has the Sovereign gone?" Bei Qingsi voiced the collective confusion, her eyes scanning the now empty mouth of the two realms.


    "It''s as if he''s preparing for something monumental," Shui Jing spected, his gaze intense.


    In the distant valley, Yi Lanque and the patriarch of the Yi n watched with bated breath.


    "Que''er, this is beyond anything I could have imagined. What could he possibly be nning?" the patriarch mused, a mixture of fear and admiration in his voice.


    "We''re about to witness the opening of the heavens, the breaking of the primordial chaos. Just wait," Yi Lanque responded, his eyes gleaming with understanding and anticipation.


    As the world held its breath, the anticipation for Zhong Shan''s next move grew palpable. The stage was set for a cosmic upheaval, one that would redefine the very fabric of existence.


    Most people showed confused expressions, but only the ministers of Daxia knew what the Sovereign was nning.


    He was opening the heavens, and Zhong Shan intended to open the heavens of both the Yang Realm and the Yin Realm!


    As soon as his main body entered the Yin Realm, it merged with his shadow body, making Zhong Shan even more formidable.


    With both feet nted firmly on the ground, Zhong Shan looked at the sky of the Yin Realm.


    In the past, the ancient god used the Great Luo Star Array to connect to the stars of the Great Thousand World, stepping on the seven stars to open the heavens and create the earth.


    Zhong Shan did not need this because he had confidence in his own strength.


    The ancient god had used Houtu to stabilize the earth and control the Yin Realm, but Zhong Shan did not need that either, as he was opening both realms simultaneously.


    Zhong Shan''s method of opening the heavens differed significantly from the ancient god''s, but there was no denying that Zhong Shan was stronger now than the ancient god was back then.


    He was truly the number one person in the world now.


    Looking at the sky of the Yin Realm, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, and a vast aura shot straight into the sky. The terrifying aura caused the sky to shatter, and within the ck holes, a secondyer of folds appeared.


    These eerie folds and the terrifying aura quickly filled with a gray light, spreading in all directions, radiating throughout the entire Yin Realm. Soon, the whole Yin Realm was enveloped in a gray mist.


    Not only the Yin Realm, but the Yang Realm was also drawn in, simrly bing shrouded in gray mist.


    In the past, the ancient god used Houtu to stabilize the Yin Realm, so this effect could not spread to both realms simultaneously. But Zhong Shan, not stabilizing either realm, caused the skies of both realms to turn gray.


    Primordial Chaos!


    This was the barrier between the realms, the Primordial Chaos.


    To open the heavens and create the earth, one must ultimately break through this Primordial Chaos barrier. To open the heavens and break the Primordial Chaos!


    The final moment had arrived.


    Zhong Shan stared at the Primordial Chaos barrier, determination shing in his eyes.


    He extended both palms, which emitted a bright silver light. Enveloped in smoke, his palms shone with endless Heaven-Opening runes. Aiming at the barrier above, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, and he shed down with both palms.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    The entire Yin Realm suddenly shook violently.


    A massive crack was shed open by Zhong Shan''s palms. Holding the crack open with his left hand to prevent it from closing, he shed down again with his right hand.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    ...


    Without stopping, Zhong Shan continued to sh, causing terrifying tremors throughout the Yin Realm. The violent shaking caused countless mountains to copse. People were already terrified by the overwhelming power.


    Zhong Shan shed a total of 107 times. He felt that with one more sh, he could break through the Primordial Chaos.


    With immense strength, Zhong Shan relied solely on his physical body to reach this final moment. In the past, the ancient god''s physical body couldn''t withstand the bacsh, resulting in severe internal injuries. But Zhong Shan''s body, tempered by the Heavenly Demon, was dozens of times stronger than the ancient god''s. The terrifying bacsh didn''t harm Zhong Shan; instead, it seemed to help refine his body, making him feel a surge offort.


    "Open������������������������������������������������!"


    With the final sh, Zhong Shan''s right palm struck down with immense force, a surge of ''breaking'' intent piercing through the thinnest part of the barrier.


    "Boom!"


    This time, the force was so great that everyone near the mouth of the two realms felt as if they had gone deaf, unable to hear anything. Only those far away from the two realms heard an ear-splitting explosion.


    Chapter 824: Shattering the Primordial Chaos


    As the heavens and earth trembled, the gray mist filling both realms seemed to pulsate, resonating with the titanic force Zhong Shan wielded. The Primordial Chaos barrier, a near-imprable wall between realms, began to show signs of breaking under Zhong Shan''s relentless assault.


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court and Changjing, ministers andmoners alike watched in awe and fear. The sheer magnitude of Zhong Shan''s power was beyondprehension.


    "He''s truly going to break the heavens and the earth," Bei Qingsi whispered, her eyes wide with amazement.


    The Yi n patriarch, observing from the distant valley, nodded solemnly. "This is unprecedented. Zhong Shan is not just opening the heavens��he''s redefining the very essence of our worlds."


    Yi Lanque, filled with a mix of pride and fear, watched intently. "This is the moment we''ve all been waiting for."


    In the Yin Realm, Zhong Shan stood towering, his massive figure a testament to his unyielding will. The final strike had shattered the barrier, but the task was not yetplete.


    With a roar that echoed across the realms, Zhong Shan''s body surged with power. The gray mist that filled the sky began to swirl and coalesce, drawn into the crack he had created. The Primordial Chaos, the very essence of the barrier between realms, was being pulled apart by his sheer will.


    The earth shook, mountains crumbled, and the sky itself seemed to bow to Zhong Shan''s might. The onlookers, both in the Yang Realm and the Yin Realm, could do nothing but stare in awe and terror.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes burned with determination. "This is the end of the old world, and the beginning of the new!"


    As his words reverberated through the realms, the crack widened, and the gray mist was sucked into the void. The barrier was breaking, and with it, the division between the realms.


    In a final, explosive surge of power, Zhong Shan thrust both hands into the crack. The force of his will,bined with the energies of both realms, tore the barrier apart.


    "Break!"


    With a sound that defied description, the Primordial Chaos barrier shatteredpletely. A wave of energy, brighter than a thousand suns, exploded outward, filling both realms with light.


    When the light faded, the sky was clear, and the realms were one. Zhong Shan stood at the center, his body radiating power, his eyes filled with triumph.


    The heavens had been opened, and the earth had been created anew. The era of Zhong Shan had truly begun.

 Chapter 824: Surrounded by Various Powers

    <h4>Chapter 824: Surrounded by Various Powers</h4>


    In the Yin Realm, outside the Small Thousand World where Zhong Shan resided:


    In the Yin Realm of the Great Thousand World, nestled within a vast forest, stood countless pces. At the center of this pceplex, within the grand hall, sat a man in white robes, exuding an air of elegance and refinement. If Zhong Shan were here, he would instantly recognize him.


    He was Tiantang, a member of the Tian family, a side branch of the main family in the Great Thousand World.


    In the past, Tiantang had led a group of Tian family members into the Small Thousand World, intending to ambush and kill Zhong Shan. Unfortunately, they encountered the powerful Da Qin empire. First, Wang Jian''s soul returned, and then Bai Qi chased after Tiantang.


    Tiantang managed to escape at thest moment, but he lost a powerful sacred artifact in the process. In addition to the artifact, he also lost many of his family members.


    Tiantang sat silently in the grand hall. Suddenly, a man in green robes entered.


    "Third Brother!"


    "Do we have any news?" Tiantang asked.


    "Not yet. I have distributed Zhong Shan''s portrait throughout the ''Wheel Domain,'' and with Fourth Lord''s decree, we have mobilized nearby Tian dynasties to keep an eye on this Small Thousand World. Not a single person from Zhong Shan''s Daxia has ascended," the green-robed man said.


    "Hmm!" Tiantang nodded, remaining calm.


    "Third Brother, the ones who harmed Tian Lai were likely from Da Tai. Jingbo Pond was also taken by Ying, and Tian Ling might have been taken by him too. Sixth Uncle has already gone to track Da Qin''s traces. Why are we still here? Is Zhong Shan really that important?" the green-robed man asked in confusion.


    "It''s not about importance. I want revenge for Tian Lai!" Tiantang''s voice was icy.


    "But..."


    "If it weren''t for Zhong Shan, Tian Lai wouldn''t have died. Tian Lai''s body and soul were both destroyed. Avenging this with only Da Qin is not enough to appease my anger. Besides, following Sixth Uncle would only make us burdens. If we can''t kill Ying, then I will kill Zhong Shan. I want Zhong Shan to pay in blood!" Tiantang said coldly.


    "Understood!"


    In the Yang Realm, outside the Small Thousand World where Zhong Shan resided:


    In the Yang Realm of the Great Thousand World, the scene was entirely different.


    Endless rays of dawn light shot up into the sky. In the high heavens, countless illusions of dragons, phoenixes, qilins, and other divine beasts flew about. Heavenly music resounded in all directions, enchanting all who heard it. The air was filled with exotic fragrances, bringing immensefort to anyone who inhaled it. Everything thrived and grew, as boundless essence of heaven and earth gathered from all directions.


    Heavenly phenomena descended, a precursor to the opening of the heavens!


    Surrounding this domain of celestial phenomena were various great powers.


    In one region, arge army stood, their banners reading "Taichu."


    At the center of this power''s territory was a vastplex of buildings, with a colossal floating ind at its core. Though not asrge as the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, it was about one-tenth its size, with a grand hall at the top.


    In the center of the hall stood over a dozen officials in official robes, each with a stern expression, as if waiting for something.


    "Lord Sima, when will the Holy King arrive?" one of them asked.


    "He arrived just as we received the news. The Holy King hase to oversee this. Perhaps the Small Thousand World, which has been suppressed for hundreds of years, is about to open the heavens!" another man said.


    "Hmm!"


    As the officials were conversing, a silver-robed figure suddenly appeared on the throne in the northern part of the grand hall.


    The luxurious, loose robe covered the entire figure, making it impossible to discern whether they were male or female. The person''s face was hidden behind a sharply defined silver mask, exuding an aura of authority but revealing no clue about their gender.


    "Greetings to the Holy King, may the Holy King enjoy eternal fortune and longevity equal to the heavens!" the ministers bowed deeply in unison.


    "Hmm!" a voice, indistinguishable in gender, came from behind the silver mask.


    "Since thest report, what has happened around this Small Thousand World? What changes have urred among the powers? Sima Zongheng, you report!" the Taichu Holy King asked calmly.


    "Yes!" Sima Zongheng immediately stepped forward to report.


    "In the Fengzhong Domain, the three Holy Courts and the three major Dao Fields have all sent people here. The leaders of the three Dao Fields have alsoe," Sima Zongheng said.


    "Hmm, those are the powers within our Fengzhong Domain. What about others?" the Holy King inquired.


    "There are also some extraterritorial forces. Originally, many of them were difficult to identify, but since the incident with the saint''s corpse and the ensuing ughter, some very powerful forces have revealed themselves. These include the ''Archaic Families,'' the ''Haotian Bright Pce with the Jade Emperor,'' the ''Shitian Sacred Realm,'' and others that I couldn''t identify. Moreover, some forces have remained hidden and have not acted at all," Sima Zongheng reported.


    "Hmm!" the Taichu Holy King nodded.


    "Holy King, why is this Small Thousand World so peculiar? Why has it attracted so many great powers? And how did it contain a saint''s corpse? Although no one could stop the saint''s corpse, it was still incredible. Moreover, the inhabitants of this world are extremely formidable. Over two hundred years ago, the powerful Yu Yangzhi reached into the Small Thousand World through a weakened space barrier caused by Da Qin''s Ying, but he was severely injured and forced to retreat," Sima Zongheng said with a frown.


    "Yu Yangzhi? He is merely at the peak of the Great Immortal stage. Breaking through this world was not easy. It was during a time when the space was weakened due to Da Qin''s Ying, which allowed him to reach in," the Taichu Holy King said calmly.


    "Da Qin? Ying?" the ministers looked at the Holy King in confusion.


    "He has already left this Small Thousand World. Soon, you will hear more about Da Qin," the Holy King said without further exnation.


    "Understood!"


    "What happened to Yu Yangzhi, who was injured by Ying?" the Holy King asked.


    "Two hundred years ago, when the saint''s corpse appeared, it triggered endless ughter. Yu Yangzhi participated and was killed by a strong individual," Sima Zongheng reported.


    "Killed? By whom?"


    "He left six words."


    "Oh?"


    "The person had a me pattern on his forehead. When he killed Yu Yangzhi, he shouted, ''Dao Dao Dao, Kill Kill Kill.'' A surge of killing intent split Yu Yangzhi in half."


    "''Dao Dao Dao, Kill Kill Kill''? A me pattern on his forehead? The Daoist Sect of the Mortal Realm?" the Holy King asked with a hint of gravity in his voice.


    "The Daoist Sect of the Mortal Realm?" Everyone in the hall showed expressions of seriousness.


    "This Small Thousand World indeed involves many powers," the Taichu Holy King said calmly.


    The ministers remained solemn.


    No matter how tumultuous the outside world was, within the Small Thousand World, the process of breaking the Primordial Chaos and opening the heavens continued.


    With Zhong Shan''s final strike, the entire Yin Realm shook violently, as if experiencing the apocalypse. Indeed, it was the end of the world��the end of the Small Thousand World.


    Zhong Shan''s final strike finally broke through the Primordial Chaos barrier. He felt his arm extend beyond this world, reaching out of the Small Thousand World.


    Endless rays of dawn light shone through Zhong Shan''s arm into the Small Thousand World, illuminating him with a radiant glow. Celestial omens descended from the heavens, signaling that the Great Thousand World had detected the opening of this world.


    Zhong Shan dared not hesitate. With his right hand piercing the Small Thousand World barrier, he followed with his left hand. His eyes widened, and his muscles swelled with power.


    "Haah!"


    With a mighty shout, Zhong Shan struck through the opening in the barrier with all his strength. The terrifying power surged in one direction, the destructive intent of the Heaven-Opening Palm reaching its peak in his hands. This was the true act of opening the heavens.


    Under the might of his palms, the sky split open with a vast rift, stretching infinitely, seemingly reaching the ends of the universe.


    "Haah!"


    Reversing his stance, Zhong Shan shouted again, shing once more. The other half of the sky was also split by the destructive intent of the Heaven-Opening Palm.


    A colossal rift divided the heavens and the earth into two halves. Endless auspicious energy from the Great Thousand World poured down.


    It seemed as if a seven-colored rainbow had split the heavens in two, apanied by celestial music and a fragrant aroma filling the air.


    Infinite brilliance radiated to every corner of the Yin Realm. The inhabitants of the Yin Realm felt an indescribablefort as if their bodies were filled with celestial energy. The Small Thousand World was filled with "spiritual energy," but the Great Thousand World had "essence energy," or celestial energy.


    Endless celestial energy poured into the Small Thousand World through the rainbow-like rift, benefiting everyone, especially the divine figures atop Changjing.


    Zhong Shan stood towering, holding the rift in the sky of the two realms, seemingly waiting for something.


    This was merely his shadow body. At that moment, Zhong Shan''s main body had already returned to the Yang Realm.


    Heavenly Demon Tempering Technique, seventh level! Eightfold strength.


    On top of his already terrifying power, Zhong Shan unleashed even more fearsome strength.


    Stomping the ground, he began to break through the Primordial Chaos barrier of the Yang Realm.


    "Boom!"


    With both palms facing the sky, Zhong Shan shed at the Primordial Chaos barrier, causing the entire Yang Realm to tremble.


    Around the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, everyone suddenly noticed the Sovereign had returned, and he seemed eager to open the heavens.


    The barrier in the Yang Realm was much stronger than in the Yin Realm, but Zhong Shan''s power had increased eightfold.


    With terrifying collisions and relentless strikes, Zhong Shan shattered the surrounding space into ck holes.


    "sh!"


    "sh!"


    "sh!"


    Zhong Shan struck repeatedly, widening the rift in the Yang Realm barrier. The opening of the heavens in the Yang Realm was imminent.


    The people of the world hailed, "Long live the Sovereign, long live, long live!" The monumental feat of opening the heavens and the imminent ascension filled everyone''s hearts with intense excitement.

 Chapter 825: Descending into the Great Thousand World

    <h4>Chapter 825: Descending into the Great Thousand World</h4>


    Zhong Shan''s way of opening the heavens was unlike the painstaking efforts of the ancient god, Gu Shentong. His approach exuded only brute force and dominance��a savage method of opening the heavens!


    As Zhong Shan''s palms shed through the Primordial Chaos barrier, he became invisible to onlookers. The surrounding space shatteredpletely, a massive rupture revealing the terrifying power Zhong Shan now possessed. In the past, he relied on "Qi Luck," but now, he didn''t need it to unleash such vast power.


    The pinnacle of mortals, the number one person in the world��Zhong Shan was now a figure of reverence for all.


    A massive ck hole surrounded Zhong Shan as he violently tore open the Primordial Chaos of the Yang Realm. The auspicious light from the Yin Realm continued to pour in, while the people of the Yang Realm waited anxiously.


    Perhaps because the heavens of the Yin Realm had already opened, the Yang Realm''s heavens seemed less resistant.


    "Open������������������������������������������������!"


    With a loud shout, Zhong Shan struck the Primordial Chaos barrier with immense force. Countless Heaven-Opening runes on his palm crackled loudly. The massive runes and the terrifying ''breaking'' intent pushed the Primordial Chaos back.


    "Boom����������������������!"


    The barrier opened. Zhong Shan felt it��his hand had pierced through the Small Thousand World, entering the Great Thousand World.


    Not hesitating, Zhong Shan followed the same method as in the Yin Realm. With his palms forming an axe shape, he struck fiercely in one direction.


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    The entire divinend of Shenzhou shook violently. The citizens, though filled with fear, were also excited.


    A massive rift was created by Zhong Shan''s Heaven-Opening Palm, stretching infinitely.


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    Turning his hands, Zhong Shan shed in the other direction.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    Mountains copsed, rivers flowed backward��the devastation Zhong Shan caused was terrifying.


    The Lingxiao Heavenly Court retreated repeatedly.


    During the retreat, almost everyone cheered.


    "Long live the Sovereign! Long live, long live!"


    Everyone heard the enchanting celestial music and saw the endless rays of dawn light pouring down from the rift Zhong Shan had created. Boundless celestial energy flooded into the Small Thousand World. The fragrance filled the air, and just a breath rejuvenated the body and seemed to enhance cultivation.


    At this moment, no one noticed that the rift in the Primordial Chaos of the Yang Realm was aligned with that of the Yin Realm.


    If the Yin and Yang Realms were seen as a chaotic egg, the Primordial Chaos barrier would be the eggshell. Zhong Shan''s series of actions had effectively split this eggshell in half from the center.


    "Rise������������������������������������������������!"


    With a loud shout, not only did Zhong Shan''s main body but also his shadow body shouted simultaneously.


    With all his strength, ck holes formed all around. Both versions of Zhong Shan held half of the barrier in their hands.


    The main body in the Yang Realm gave a mighty pull, tearing out the Yang Realm''s half of the barrier. The other half was connected to the Yin Realm''s barrier, and with one pull, half of the eggshell was forcibly removed.


    The shadow body in the Yin Realm also pulled fiercely, tearing out the other half of the eggshell.


    Breaking through the Primordial Chaos barrier typically meant that the Primordial Chaos would slowly dissipate due to the Great Thousand World''s heavenlyws. In other Small Thousand Worlds, the barrier wouldn''t break so neatly into two halves. Usually, it would shatter into countless pieces.


    Zhong Shan, however, had managed to break the Primordial Chaos into two perfect halves, like an eggshell, demonstrating his unparalleled strength and dominance.


    The entire process disyed Zhong Shan''s overwhelming power and the tremendous energy of the Great Thousand World flooding into the Small Thousand World. The people of both realms felt the profound changes and celebrated the monumental achievement.


    Zhong Shan, standing tall and mighty, had not only broken through the barriers but had also unified the celestial energies, transforming the entire world. His actions marked a new era, a testament to his supreme strength and the dawn of a new age in both realms.


    The fragments of the Primordial Chaos barrier, if collected and refined by powerful individuals, could be the primordial treasures known as Hongmeng Lingbao. Was Zhong Shan nning to create his own Hongmeng Lingbao?


    Zhong Shan carefully removed the two halves of the Primordial Chaos barrier. As he held them, they rapidly shrank, bing smaller and smaller. Without hesitation, both versions of Zhong Shanpressed the barrier fragments and integrated them into the mouth of the two realms.


    The Taiji Diagram and the Map of Rivers and Mountains framework were now infused with the Primordial Chaos barrier as their medium. Zhong Shan aimed to forge the ultimate Hongmeng Lingbao.


    As soon as the Primordial Chaos barrier was extracted, endless light descended from the heavens. The divinend of Shenzhou and the Yin Realm were bathed in multicolored light, making it impossible to see more than a few meters ahead.


    The celestial music grew louder, with countless divine beast phantoms dancing in the sky, and exotic fragrances filling the air. Boundless celestial energy from the Great Thousand World poured into the Small Thousand World, apanied by a shower of fortune and merit.


    Inside the Small Thousand World, nearly everyone felt an unprecedented warmth. nts grew wildly, countless wild beasts gained intelligence, and the officials of the Daxia Heavenly Court were cocooned in light.


    The entire Small Thousand World was undergoing a tremendous transformation.


    While Zhong Shan calcted the range, he fully integrated the Primordial Chaos barrier into the mouth of the two realms,pleting the initial form of the treasure. At the same time, the mouth of the two realms began to shrink, fulfilling the Mud Buddha''s prophecy that the mouth of the two realms would cease to exist and the Small Thousand World would descend into the Great Thousand World.


    As the mouth of the two realms shrank, the treasure before Zhong Shan waspleted.


    Using theplete Primordial Chaos barrier as the medium and the Taiji Diagram and the Map of Rivers and Mountains as the framework, a brand-new treasure was born.


    The treasure retained the shape of a Taiji Yin-Yang fish, withndscapes within the Yin and Yang fish.


    "I name this the ''Emperor''s Map,''" Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    The Emperor''s Map, Zhong Shan''s perfect Hongmeng Lingbao, was thus named.


    As soon as Zhong Shan named it, the Emperor''s Map began to rotate rapidly.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������!"


    Suddenly, the Emperor''s Map emitted a loud explosion, radiating a powerful shockwave in all directions. But Zhong Shan was unaffected. The explosion came from the Emperor''s Map, which unexpectedly split into two halves��the Yang Fish and the Yin Fish��each transforming into a separate round treasure, one ck and one white.


    The main body collected the white treasure. Inside the white treasure were the Map of Rivers and Mountains and the Yang Fish of the Taiji Diagram, with half of the Primordial Chaos barrier as its medium. It was now a perfect circle, surrounded by white mist, with a single ck dot in the center (the Yin Eye of the Yang Fish).


    The shadow body collected the ck treasure. Inside the ck treasure were the Map of Rivers and Mountains and the Yin Fish of the Taiji Diagram, with half of the Primordial Chaos barrier as its medium. It was also a perfect circle, surrounded by ck mist, with a single white dot in the center (the Yang Eye of the Yin Fish).


    The Emperor''s Map had split into the Emperor''s Yang Map and the Emperor''s Yin Map, both Hongmeng Lingbao, capable of merging into one.


    As the main body and shadow body each took their respective halves of the Emperor''s Map, the mouth of the two realms closed with a thunderous roar.


    The heaven-opening was sessful. The shadow body shrank to normal size and entered the Immortal Hall.


    In the Immortal Hall, the shadow body began to refine the Emperor''s Yin Map while absorbing the immense fortune from the Great Thousand World.


    The Yin and Yang realms were separated once more.


    The main body did the same, shrinking to normal size and quickly entering the Longevity Hall of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    The auspicious blessings from the Great Thousand World began to descend.


    The entire Daxia Heavenly Court was beginning to advance to the status of the Daxia Holy Court��


    In the Yin Realm outside the Small Thousand World:


    Tiantang''s subordinates and the surrounding Tian dynasties were searching in a-like pattern.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������������!"


    A sudden loud explosion shook the heavens and the earth, startling everyone nearby.


    As people were still in shock, endless rays of dawn light and rainbows shot into the sky. Countless divine beasts flew up, and beautiful celestial music resonated deeply within everyone''s hearts, apanied by enchanting fragrances.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������������!"


    The ground around them roared and trembled, making it hard for people to keep their footing.


    "The ground is moving? Third Brother, the ground is moving!" A man in green robes rushed to Tiantang.


    Tiantang looked at the endless dawn light and rainbows in the distance, with celestial music filling the air. His eyes were filled with gravity.


    "Third Brother, the ground is moving? What''s happening? It''s like a huge force is pushing the surroundingnds away. What kind of power is this? How can such a force exist?" the green-robed man eximed in shock.


    "Opening the heavens and breaking the Primordial Chaos? Who could it be? Zhong Shan? Is Zhong Shan opening the heavens?" Tiantang frowned.


    "Opening the heavens? Is a Small Thousand World descending into the Great Thousand World? Is this the power of the heavens and the earth? The Great Thousand World''s power is creating enough space for the Small Thousand World to settle?" the green-robed man asked, furrowing his brows.


    "It must be Zhong Shan. Inform everyone to prepare to face the Daxia Holy Court. Those Tian dynasties will be eager to act. If they destroy a Holy Court, they will gain endless fortune. I want to destroy his Holy Court and personally kill Zhong Shan!" Tiantang shouted.


    "Yes!" The green-robed man obeyed and flew away.


    In the distance, a pir of auspicious light reached from the ground to the sky, expanding in diameter. Infinite fortune and merit gathered around the golden light pir.


    As the light pir expanded, the surroundingnds shifted, and the Small Thousand World descended further into the Great Thousand World.


    Zhong Shan''s Daxia Heavenly Court officially descended into the Great Thousand World, advancing rapidly to the status of a Holy Court. The position in the celestial hierarchy rose from ''Upper Position'' to ''Holy Position.''

 Chapter 826: The Great Emperor鈥檚 Court

    <h4>Chapter 826: The Great Emperor''s Court</h4>


    Splitting Heaven and Earth, Breaking the Primordial Chaos!


    The ancient and enduring small world was opened by Zhong Shan. The divinend, where the Great Emperor''s Dynasty took root, officially descended upon the Great Thousand World.


    People from the small world were often looked down upon by those from the Great Thousand World, considered by many as barbarians. But once Heaven and Earth were split open, who would dare to speak such words?


    In the yang realm of the Great Thousand World, within the Fengzhong Territory, a thunderous roar shook the heavens, and infinite rays of divine light burst forth, expanding thousands of times. Millions of rainbows pierced the sky.


    After the deafening roar, countless forces paused their activities and turned their gaze toward the source of the sound.


    Heaven opened?


    The small world has split open?


    Various major forces quickly spread the news while gravely watching a massive pir of light in the distance. This pir connected Heaven and Earth, growingrger andrger, rapidly increasing in diameter. Endless fortunes and virtues gathered, aiding the Heavenly Court''s ascension.


    Beneath the many forces, the earth moved swiftly. From the pir of light, a vast expanse ofnd was forcibly squeezed out, creating space and territory for the small world to settle.


    At the Great Beginning Sacred Court''s residence:


    The masked Sacred King of Great Beginning stood on a floating ind, watching the retreatingnds in the distance. Not only thend but even the surrounding space seemed to be retreating.


    "Sacred King, Heaven has opened!" an underling reported.


    "Mm," the Sacred King of Great Beginning nodded lightly.


    "This new Sacred Court is unfortunate. After hundreds of years, at least all major forces in the Fengzhong Territory are aware of this ce. When the small world fully descends, it will be a disaster for them. Initially, various Heavenly Courts will besiege them for their fortune. Even if this newborn Sacred Court can withstand it, the subsequent attacks from Sacred Courts and Dao Fields will be too much. One established Sacred Court alone could destroy them. Now, with so many arriving, it will be interesting to see what happens!" Sima Zongheng sneered.


    "Sima, you just want revenge for that fool Sima Ce, right?" another official mocked.


    Simrly, all other forces watched with solemn expressions, their minds racing with various calctions.


    Above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court:


    The ministers stood tall, each enveloped by a huge cocoon of light, gathering countless fortunes from the Great Thousand World. The blessings and grace of the Great Thousand World were being bestowed.


    Following the Sacred Emperor, everything would be the best.


    At this moment, within the Longevity Hall:


    Zhong Shan also received blessings from the Great Thousand World.


    Using the Imperial Map, a Hongmeng Spiritual Treasure, Zhong Shan harnessed the power of the Great Yan Empire, refining the treasure in an instant and storing it within his Purple Pce.


    Zhong Shan remained focused.


    At this moment, he was not concerned with his cultivation but with his hands.


    Heaven-Splitting Palm!


    The Heaven-Splitting Axe was a Heavenly Dao guide for the Great Thousand World to descend into the small world, meant to encourage the small world''s experts to split Heaven and Earth. However, once Heaven and Earth were split, the Great Thousand World would reim the Heaven-Splitting Axe.


    To retain this Heavenly Dao guide, Zhong Shan endured immense suffering, integrating the axe''s essence into his palms.


    It''s important to note that ordinary people couldn''t fuse the Heaven-Splitting Axe''s essence. It carried an overpowering intent of destruction, unbearable even for celestial beings and dragons of the Celestial Realm.


    The ancient and enduring small world was opened by Zhong Shan. The divinend, where the Great Emperor''s Dynasty took root, officially descended upon the Great Thousand World.


    People from the small world were often looked down upon by those from the Great Thousand World, considered by many as barbarians. But once Heaven and Earth were split open, who would dare to speak such words?


    In the yang realm of the Great Thousand World, within the Fengzhong Territory, a thunderous roar shook the heavens, and infinite rays of divine light burst forth, expanding thousands of times. Millions of rainbows pierced the sky.


    After the deafening roar, countless forces paused their activities and turned their gaze toward the source of the sound.


    Heaven opened?


    The small world has split open?


    Various major forces quickly spread the news while gravely watching a massive pir of light in the distance. This pir connected Heaven and Earth, growingrger andrger, rapidly increasing in diameter. Endless fortunes and virtues gathered, aiding the Heavenly Court''s ascension.


    Beneath the many forces, the earth moved swiftly. From the pir of light, a vast expanse ofnd was forcibly squeezed out, creating space and territory for the small world to settle.


    <strong>At the Great Beginning Sacred Court''s residence:</strong>


    The masked Sacred King of Great Beginning stood on a floating ind, watching the retreatingnds in the distance. Not only thend but even the surrounding space seemed to be retreating.


    "Sacred King, Heaven has opened!" an underling reported.


    "Mm," the Sacred King of Great Beginning nodded lightly.


    "This new Sacred Court is unfortunate. After hundreds of years, at least all major forces in the Fengzhong Territory are aware of this ce. When the small world fully descends, it will be a disaster for them. Initially, various Heavenly Courts will besiege them for their fortune. Even if this newborn Sacred Court can withstand it, the subsequent attacks from Sacred Courts and Dao Fields will be too much. One established Sacred Court alone could destroy them. Now, with so many arriving, it will be interesting to see what happens!" Sima Zongheng sneered.


    "Sima, you just want revenge for that fool Sima Ce, right?" another official mocked.


    Simrly, all other forces watched with solemn expressions, their minds racing with various calctions.


    <strong>Above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court:</strong>


    The ministers stood tall, each enveloped by a huge cocoon of light, gathering countless fortunes from the Great Thousand World. The blessings and grace of the Great Thousand World were being bestowed.


    Following the Sacred Emperor, everything would be the best.


    <strong>At this moment, within the Longevity Hall:</strong>


    Zhong Shan also received blessings from the Great Thousand World.


    Using the Imperial Map, a Hongmeng Spiritual Treasure, Zhong Shan harnessed the power of the Great Yan Empire, refining the treasure in an instant and storing it within his Purple Pce.


    Zhong Shan remained focused.


    At this moment, he was not concerned with his cultivation but with his hands.


    Heaven-Splitting Palm!


    The Heaven-Splitting Axe was a Heavenly Dao guide for the Great Thousand World to descend into the small world, meant to encourage the small world''s experts to split Heaven and Earth. However, once Heaven and Earth were split, the Great Thousand World would reim the Heaven-Splitting Axe.


    To retain this Heavenly Dao guide, Zhong Shan endured immense suffering, integrating the axe''s essence into his palms.


    It''s important to note that ordinary people couldn''t fuse the Heaven-Splitting Axe''s essence. It carried an overpowering intent of destruction, unbearable even for celestial beings and dragons of the Celestial Realm.


    During the brief period of refining, Zhong Shan endured inhuman pain daily. However, he ultimately seeded, and now the Great Thousand World wanted to reim this Heavenly Dao guide.


    Zhong Shan, however, intended to keep it.


    Call it greed or foolish dreaming, Zhong Shan had long coveted the Heaven-Splitting Axe.


    The blessings of the Great Thousand World enveloped Zhong Shan, while a mighty force from the Great Thousand World pulled at Zhong Shan''s Heaven-Splitting Palm.


    Zhong Shan clenched his fists tightly, continuously pulling against it with his strength.


    During this time, the blessings of the Great Thousand World flooded his body, and endless elemental energy washed over him, causing significant breakthroughs in Zhong Shan''s physique. Not only his physical body but also his soul and fate were rapidly transforming.


    Twelve levels of the Sky Extreme Realm, the pinnacle of mortal cultivation. Upon ascension, he would be a celestial being.


    In just the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, Zhong Shan felt his strength upgrading. His soul glowed with a silver light, and his fate transformed from mortal to celestial, attaining the celestial fate! His entire body surged with power. Celestial energy surged, directly pushing him into the Celestial Realm!


    The Celestial Realm is typically the limit for mortals upon ascension, but Zhong Shan was different. Having received great fortune from splitting Heaven and Earth, the blessings of the Great Thousand World continued to envelop him.


    A massive influx of blessings filled Zhong Shan''s body, attempting to elevate his strength further. Some who had split Heaven and Earth had ascended directly to the Great Celestial Realm thanks to these blessings.


    This blessing energy suited the recipient''s physique perfectly, aiding in their breakthrough to the Great Celestial Realm.


    Would Zhong Shan reach it?


    Zhong Shan did not use it to break through to the Great Celestial Realm because he knew it was unlikely. He understood his own potential; relying on these blessings to reach the Great Celestial Realm was a fantasy. Even reaching the peak of the Celestial Realm was a stretch.


    Zhong Shan channeled all the blessings into his palms.


    Zhong Shan intended to use these "Heaven and Earth Blessings" to counteract the "Heaven and Earth Debt."


    He wanted to keep this Heavenly Dao guide. If he could, it would all be worth it.


    Simultaneously, his great de ''Nightmare'' floated up.


    After the Heaven-Splitting, the retrieval of the Heaven-Splitting Axe, the blessings could allow the splitter to have a chance to reach the Great Celestial Realm. Additionally, one of his apanying magical treasures could also be upgraded to the Great Celestial Artifact.


    A Great Celestial Artifact was not something every Great Celestial could possess. In the Great Thousand World, even many Great Celestials still used Celestial Artifacts.


    For two full hours, Zhong Shan, sweating profusely, finally smiled.


    Heaven-Splitting Palm, finally retained. The excess blessings upgraded Zhong Shan to the second level of the Celestial Realm!


    Each realm of the Celestial Being is also divided into ten levels. Beyond power, breaking through requires heart and opportunity. The second level of the Celestial Realm! Only upon reaching the tenth level can one seek to break into the Great Celestial Realm.


    Zhong Shan was now merely at the second level of the Celestial Realm!


    However, his great de ''Nightmare'' had reached the power of a Great Celestial Artifact. Crystalline and translucent, it looked like a de of pure crystal.


    Gazing at the de, Zhong Shan frowned and looked deeply at it.


    "Nightmare? Once, it was named to be Kong Lietian''s nightmare. Now that Kong Lietian is dead, I rename you ''Longevity,''" Zhong Shan solemnly dered.


    Upon hearing this, the great de ''Longevity'' trembled slightly, seemingly expressing its fondness for the new name.


    The main body of Zhong Shan now possessed the following treasures: Heaven-Splitting Palm, Imperial Map, Longevity de, Heavenly Punishment, Fang Tian Jade Seal, and the Investiture of the Gods!


    Except for the Fang Tian Jade Seal and the Investiture of the Gods, each one, when mentioned, would make countless people green with envy.


    These treasures were all umted step by step by Zhong Shan, without a trace of luck, achieved through hard work and steady progress.


    What lies ahead for Zhong Shan, who possesses so many treasures in the Great Thousand World? How far will he go?


    Zhong Shan felt an indescribable sense offort throughout his body, as endless fortune and virtue enveloped him. He could feel that the Great Yan Dynasty had officially ascended.


    The position of Heaven and Earth, the Life Position! The ordinary "Life Position" grants a thousand times the cultivation speed, but Zhong Shan, upon sensing it, found his speed to be two thousand times. Fortune and virtue together can at most provide fifteen hundred times the cultivation speed, so where did the extra five hundrede from?


    Fang Tian Jade Seal. Zhong Shan understood that this was due to the red bead on the Fang Tian Jade Seal. The effect of this red bead was inscrutable, beyond the understanding of even Zhong Shan with his Celestial cultivation.


    The position of Heaven and Earth, the Life Position. Thus, the positions of all the civil and military officials in the court increased as well. At least, the Dukes, Princes, and the Empress''s positions all reached the upper rank.


    The entire court advanced!


    More importantly, Zhong Shan sensed that above the Sea of Fortune Clouds, atop his divine statue, a few strands of multicolored halos appeared again. This was destiny. Once again, destiny had appeared.


    Although the amount of destiny was not as much as before, with its reappearance, it would only increase in the future.


    Concealing the runes on the Heaven-Splitting Palm and sheathing the great de "Longevity," Zhong Shan stepped out of the Longevity Hall.


    The great doors of the Longevity Hall burst open.


    Blinding light flooded the hall as Zhong Shan stepped out, a surge of imperial aura radiating in all directions.


    "Roar~~~!"


    Above the Sea of Fortune Clouds, a dragon''s roar suddenly echoed, reverberating through Heaven and Earth. In an instant, all the citizens of the Great Yan Empire heard the joyous and proud dragon''s roar.


    Above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, all the citizens of the Great Yan Empire turned towards the Longevity Hall.


    "Great Yan Sacred Court, enjoy celestial fortune forever, live as long as the heavens~~~!"


    "The Sacred King, enjoy celestial fortune forever, live as long as the heavens~~~!"


    The citizens of the Great Yan Empire bowed down, worshipping the Great Yan Sacred Court and Sacred King Zhong Shan!


    This voice seemed to travel through the Sea of Fortune Clouds, spreading to the four corners of the world. The entire Great Yan Empire heard this resounding promation.


    "Great Yan Sacred Court, enjoy celestial fortune forever, live as long as the heavens~~~!"


    "The Sacred King, enjoy celestial fortune forever, live as long as the heavens~~~!"


    Throughout the Great Yan Empire, people bowed deeply.


    It was a universal celebration, as the Great Yan split Heaven and Earth, bringing the entire small world into the Great Thousand World.


    Standing at the entrance of the Longevity Hall, feeling the endless worship, Zhong Shan''s heart surged with an indescribable sense of achievement. For some reason, amidst this overwhelming emotion, Zhong Shan recalled something Ying had said in the past.


    "The small world is like a dream, an illusion, like dew or lightning. The Great Thousand World is the real ce. Ascending is merely breaking through the illusion; splitting Heaven and Earth is transforming the dream into reality!"


    Transforming dreams into reality. Now, I, Zhong Shan, have led all the people of this world to step onto thend of the Great Thousand World. My everything is no longer a dream; everything is real!

 Chapter 827: The Immortal Monument Stabilizes the Border

    <h4>Chapter 827: The Immortal Monument Stabilizes the Border</h4>


    "Great Yan Sacred Court, enjoy celestial fortune forever, live as long as the heavens~~~!" "The Sacred King, enjoy celestial fortune forever, live as long as the heavens~~~!"


    The jubnt cheers echoed from all corners of Shenzhou, shaking the heavens and reaching the ears of the surrounding forces.


    The various forces looked towards the distant source of themotion, each with different emotions.


    <strong>At the Great Beginning Sacred Court''s residence:</strong>


    "Reckless fools!" Sima Zongheng sneered.


    "It''s not recklessness; it''s sheer ignorance. Those who have just ascended from the small world, how much can you expect them to understand about the four directions?" another official shook his head.


    "Sacred King, should we keep watching?" Sima Zongheng asked.


    "Yes," the Sacred King of Great Beginning replied lightly.


    The crowd continued to observe the developments.


    Under the infinite blessings, the surrounding world was filled with endless light. Before the small world could fully settle and descend, no one could interfere, as doing so would be a defiance of the heavens. Only when the small world hadpletely settled could the strong from the four directions act as they wished.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a thunderous roar, the vast elemental energy of heaven and earth, absorbed by the small world for half a day, finally reversed and blew back at the moment of its settlement.


    The surge of elemental energy was a signal, informing everyone that they could now enter.


    The descent of Shenzhou''snd pushed out a vast territory, and the surroundingnds moved far in all directions, drastically altering thendscape. However, the excitement among the various forces grew more intense.


    "Grand Emperor''s army, charge with me!" "Great Beginning''s army, charge with me!" "Grand Unification''s army, charge with me!"


    From all directions, a total of eight Heavenly Courtsmanded their armies to charge towards the Great Yan Sacred Court.


    The vast and mighty armies were, in the eyes of some great forces, merely probes. Therefore, they allowed these armies to charge towards the Great Yan Sacred Court.


    Themanders of these armies also knew their role as probes. But what of it? In the Fengzhong Territory, unlike the small world, it was filled with strong individuals, and the status of a Heavenly Court was entirely different from that in the small world.


    But thesemanders had their own ns. So what if they were mere probes? While helping the big yers test the newborn Sacred Court, they were also fighting for territory for their own Heavenly Courts. As long as they could increase their territory, they epted being pawns.


    The eight Heavenly Courtsmanded their armies straight towards Shenzhou''snd.


    As the first wave of Heavenly Court armies began their probe:


    "Rumble~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Above the four seas, some towering inds suddenly copsed. No, it was as if they had shed their disguises.


    Enormous stone steles, each tens of thousands of feet tall, suddenly blocked the path of the eight Heavenly Court armies.


    The massive steles emitted countless starlights, connecting with the stars above. A tremendous force of the stars poured down, shooting into the steles, causing them to rapidly expand. In just a moment, they reached a height of ten thousand miles. Simultaneously, it seemed as if a special connection had formed between each stele, firmly anchoring them in ce.


    The armies of the eight Heavenly Courts, upon seeing the gigantic steles, detoured around them, continuing their charge towards the interior.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Invisible green light erupted, rebounding the armies charging towards Shenzhou. The green light, actually starlight, seemed to form a massive force field around the Great Yan Sacred Court, repelling all beings, whether living or dead. Anyone attempting to enter Shenzhou was inevitably bounced away.


    The armies of the eight Heavenly Courts halted abruptly, all staring in shock at the scene before them.


    "What is this? A formation? What kind of formation is this? Those steles?"


    One hundred and eight colossal steles stood at one hundred and eight different locations in Shenzhou, forming a massive formation that blocked all external enemies.


    The eight Heavenly Courts were in turmoil. Could the so-called barbarians of the small world possess such a formation? How could that be possible?


    The powerful individuals from the eight Heavenly Courtsunched assaults on the formation, many targeting the steles. However, the steles appeared to be the most resilient part of the formation, impervious to destruction.


    <strong>At the Great Beginning Sacred Court''s residence:</strong>


    Sima Zongheng''s pupils contracted, his eyes narrowing. "People from the small world can possess such giant steles?"


    "What is this formation? So powerful? It blocks everything below the Celestial level?"


    "Each stele is beyond the level of a Celestial artifact; they must be Great Celestial artifacts!"


    "Great Celestial artifacts? How is that possible? How could the small world have Great Celestial artifacts? And how many are there? ording to the arrangement of the Heavenly Gang and Earthly Fiends, there should be one hundred and eight. One hundred and eight Great Celestial artifacts?"


    "Hiss~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The officials collectively gasped.


    Great Celestial artifacts were incredibly precious. Those present knew this far better than Zhong Shan. In the Great Thousand World, even Great Celestials did not necessarily possess Great Celestial artifacts. They were incredibly difficult to forge, requiring the integration ofws, rules, and a substantial understanding of the Dao.


    Such precious Great Celestial artifacts��how could a newly established Sacred Court with seemingly no foundation possess them? And one hundred and eight of them?


    The Great Yan Sacred Court''s first appearance indeed stunned countless forces. Everyone had expected this Sacred Court to be impoverished, yet its formation alone involved one hundred and eight Great Celestial artifacts?


    "This is the Immortal World of the Wu Tribe!" the Sacred King of Great Beginning suddenly spoke.


    Clearly, the Sacred King of Great Beginning was well-informed, beyond the understanding of his ministers.


    "Immortal World? Wu Tribe?" Sima Zongheng and others frowned.


    <strong>At another force''s encampment:</strong>


    Many guards surrounded a floating ind.


    On the ind stood a pce, outside of which stood a group of courtiers.


    The leader was a fair-faced man, looking very kind. Behind him stood his ministers, including an elderly man holding a fly-whisk, another wearing a Bagua robe, a man with a third eye on his forehead, and another shrouded in a ck robe.


    The man in the ck robe exuded a mysterious aura, standing behind the leader, apparently holding the highest position.


    "Jade Emperor, it seems yourst descendant has given your Immortal Monument to this Sacred King," the ck-robed man said to the leader.


    "The Immortal Monument means nothing to me now. What I care about is her. The Wanxie Extreme Yin Body. Five thousand years ago, you first entered this small world to set up theyout, bing the first person under heaven, the master of the gue Sect. You left a hiddenyout, one that gathers yin for forty thousand years. Over ten thousand years ago, I brought the Resentful Women of Eight Lives into this world, ultimately using youryout to form the Resentful Women of Nine Lives epassing the Great Thousand World. This is the tenth generation, my descendant, my bloodline. From now on, she will be the Eighth Princess!" the Jade Emperor said with satisfaction.


    "Yes!" the ministers behind the Jade Emperor bowed respectfully.


    "Wen Shen, what do you think of the Wanxie Extreme Yin Body?" the Jade Emperor asked with a smile.


    "My lord, I possess the Wanxie Body myself. Two hundred years ago, when I first noticed her, she was capable of cursing even me. What do you think?" Wen Shen responded with a question.


    "Ha ha ha ha ha..." The Jade Emperorughed heartily.


    The Immortal World, formed by the array of one hundred and eight Immortal Monuments, isted Shenzhou from the outside world.


    The external Heavenly Court armies could not advance an inch. They could only stand outside, stomping the ground and the sea in frustration.


    After waiting for hundreds of years, they were unable to gain anything. This feeling was hard to ept. Themanders of the eight Heavenly Courts appeared calm on the surface, but inside, they were deeply frustrated.


    "Damn it, retreat!" onemander said angrily.


    They had no choice but to retreat swiftly. With numerous forces surrounding them, the eight Heavenly Courts couldn''t remain in the spotlight, as it could lead to unnecessary conflicts and potential exploitation by others.


    The Immortal World had repelled the first wave of attacks.


    <strong>Above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court:</strong>


    All ministers gathered in front of the Longevity Hall, bowing to Zhong Shan before standing behind him, ready to face the formidable enemies of the Great Thousand World together.


    "Sacred King, the one hundred and eight Immortal Monuments have formed the Immortal World, protecting Shenzhou. The eight Heavenly Courts cannot attack!" Shui Jing immediately reported.


    Despite the great distance, Zhong Shan''s "Mouse Communication Method" allowed news from the borders to reach the Lingxiao Heavenly Court with uncanny speed.


    Shui Jing was responsible for receiving the messages, enabling Zhong Shan to have a clear understanding of the border situation while standing in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "The Heavenly Court armies are not to be feared! None below the Celestial Realm can enter our Great Yan territory. However, those above the Celestial Realm can. Once someone reaches the Great Celestial Realm, they can break through the Immortal Monument array and enter. The real crisis has only just begun!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!" The ministers nodded with slight concern.


    "Zhong Shan, I''ve taken many of Sister Bao''er''s elixirs over the years. I''m a Celestial now. If anyone dares to cause trouble, I''ll curse them to death!" Hao Meili said boldly.


    "Uh? Yes, speaking of which, we owe the sess of repelling the first wave of attacks to your Immortal Monuments!" Zhong Shan acknowledged sincerely.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s gratitude, Hao Meili smiled and said, "Of course, remember your promise that day!"


    Zhong Shan nodded helplessly, "Rest assured!"


    Zhong Shan waited, knowing that the matter was far from over.


    As expected, just then, to the east of Great Yan, where a Heavenly Court army had previously gathered, a man in red robes suddenly appeared, standing in the void.


    The man observed the Immortal World array before him. With a wave of his hand, a massive red palm appeared in the void, radiating multicolored light. The palm struck the edge of the Immortal World with great force.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Immortal World array was breached with a gaping green-glowing hole. However, this hole began to shrink rapidly, nourished by the power of the stars, quickly healing itself.


    The red-robed man flickered, slipping through the shrinking hole and disappearing into the distance.


    A Great Celestial had forcefully entered the territory of the Great Yan Sacred Court!

 Chapter 828: The Weakest in History

    <h4>Chapter 828: The Weakest in History</h4>


    The Immortal Monument stabilizes the border, and the eight Heavenly Courts withdraw in vain.


    The major forces did not recklessly charge into the Immortal World, not out of fear of the Great Yan Sacred Court, but due to concerns about the other factions. Each faction had its own agenda, and since they belonged to different camps, no one could guarantee that someone wouldn''t take advantage and attack them from behind.


    While the forces observed, the first to break the silence appeared.


    A red-robed man broke through the starlight barrier of the Immortal World with a single hand and shot inside.


    <strong>At the Great Beginning Sacred Court''s residence:</strong>


    "Sacred King, someone has entered?"


    "Great Celestial Zheng Fan, a rogue immortal who has just reached the Great Celestial Realm. He has no Great Celestial Artifact. His aim might be the Sacred King''s artifact inside, which has been enhanced by the world''s blessings," Sima Zongheng exined about the intruder.


    "He''s too impatient. However, impatience has its benefits. If he obtains the Great Celestial Artifact, the major forces probably won''t chase him down, except for the rogue cultivators. A single Great Celestial should be enough to test this Sacred Court!" the previous speaker nodded.


    Everyone continued to watch.


    <strong>At the Haotian Bright Pce, where the Jade Emperor resided:</strong>


    "Jade Emperor, someone has gone in. Should we enter? It would be unfortunate if the Eighth Princess got hurt!" a three-eyed man said with a frown.


    "No need to worry too much. The Eighth Princess should have reached the Celestial Realm by now. Although she can''t contend with a Great Celestial, self-preservation shouldn''t be difficult. Besides, this Great Celestial doesn''t seem to have a Great Celestial Artifact. Let''s wait and see," Wen Shen, the ck-robed figure, responded.


    "Then we''ll wait," the Jade Emperor nodded.


    A flicker of concern shed in the Jade Emperor''s eyes, showing his deep care for Hao Meili.


    <strong>At the Lingxiao Heavenly Court:</strong>


    The distance to the border was immense. Yet, the heads of major forces, for some reason, seemed to sense the scene near the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. It was intriguing.


    <strong>Above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court:</strong>


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly as he looked over the vastnds. He turned to Shui Jing and asked, "Shui Jing, have you noticed anything unusual?"


    "Yes, only one Great Celestial has entered, while the others have not. It''s clear that all the major figures are watching. However, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court is so far from the borders that it''s impossible to see us with the naked eye. How are they sensing the scene here?" Shui Jing expressed his confusion.


    Zhong Shan''s expression suddenly rxed.


    "Sacred King, do you know?" Shui Jing asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, Wang Ku mentioned earlier that some beings above the Great Celestial Realm specialize in eye-rted divine abilities, allowing them to see infinite distances," Zhong Shan exined.


    "No wonder!"


    The ministers stood ready, waiting for the powerful enemy.


    Soon, a strong wind blew from the south.


    As the wind passed, a red-robed man suddenly appeared outside the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    The man seemed to be surrounded by mes, with two fiery eyebrows pointing upwards. Just a nce at him made one feel a sense of irritation.


    "Who goes there?" Lin Xiao suddenly shouted.


    His voice echoed towards the red-robed man.


    "Which one of you is the new Sacred King?" the red-robed man shouted back.


    His voice was so loud it caused a roaring in everyone''s ears.


    "The Great Yan Sacred Court, Zhong Shan! Who are you?" Zhong Shan stepped forward and asked.


    "The Great Yan? Zhong Shan? What a ridiculous name. I, Great Celestial Zheng Fan, demand you hand over your Great Celestial Artifact, and I won''t make things difficult for you!" the red-robed man, Zheng Fan, shouted.


    Zheng Fan knew that many powerful individuals were watching from all directions, so he didn''t want to act too recklessly. He only wanted a Great Celestial Artifact. Any other conflicts were not his concern.


    The Great Yan? Zhong Shan? What a joke! Hearing this string of insults, the entire court was enraged. Insult anyone, but not the Sacred King.


    Daoist, do you think you can act arrogant in front of the Sacred King? And even dare to threaten him?


    The ministers were infuriated. To them, Zhong Shan was a deity. Insulting Zhong Shan at this moment filled everyone''s hearts with anger.


    However, since Zhong Shan did not speak, the ministers did not dare to act out of turn. They all red angrily at Zheng Fan.


    Zheng Fan might not have realized it, but his casual words had enraged everyone.


    Zhong Shan stared coldly at Zheng Fan, about to speak when��


    "Did a dog bite you? Barking at everyone you see, why doesn''t Heaven send a lightning bolt to strike you dead!" Hao Meili couldn''t hold back her anger and cursed.


    "You little wench, you''re seeking death!"


    Although Zheng Fan didn''t have a major backing, he was still a Great Celestial. These so-called barbarians from the small world dared to insult him? As he spoke, a long sword suddenly appeared in Zheng Fan''s hand.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A bizarre scene unfolded too quickly. The sky, which had no clouds, suddenly produced a purple lightning bolt that struck down without warning. It traveled along the long sword and hit Zheng Fan directly.


    Zheng Fan was ultimately a Great Celestial, immensely powerful. A single lightning bolt couldn''t harm him. After a slight tremor from the electric shock, he was fine.


    But the scene just now was too strange!


    No one had attacked; there was no sign of any magical fluctuations.


    How could they be so sure? Zheng Fan, being the highest cultivator present, could see that no one had made a move. Then, where did the lightninge from?


    Zheng Fan''s eyes filled with confusion and suspicion.


    "It should strike like that, serves him right!" Hao Meili eximed excitedly.


    Hao Meili had suddenly realized that her curses worked even in the Great Thousand World. ording to the information Zhong Shan had gathered, the legend said that the Wanxie Body could only curse people in the small world. In the Great Thousand World, this body was supposed to be ineffective, only making it easier to learn curse techniques. Yet, how could her innate abilities still work here?


    Zhong Shan had indeed studied Hao Meili''s physique. One way the Wanxie Body could form was if a daughter was born from a woman who had reincarnated nine times, each life ending in resentment. The probability was extremely low��only one in ten thousand for a human soul to be a ghost, and only one in ten thousand for a ghost to reincarnate as a human. Therefore, a person had a one in a million chance of reincarnating once. Reincarnating nine times? That probability wasn''t just one in ny million; it was an extraordinarily tiny number.


    Reincarnating nine times as a woman, each life ending in resentment, was almost incalcbly rare.


    Thus, a daughter born under these circumstances would possess the Wanxie Body, absolutely protected by the small world.


    But this shouldn''t affect the Great Thousand World. However, Zhong Shan had noticed something strange the first time he saw Hao Meili use her power. She had cursed a person in the Imperial Extreme Realm, cursing them to be killed by falling stars. The small world had no stars, so the curse shouldn''t have worked. Yet, stars fell from the sky!


    This bizarre urrence suggested that Hao Meili''s abilities were not just limited to the Wanxie Body. That one curse had involved the Great Thousand World as well?


    Hao Meili''s mischievous smile caught Zheng Fan''s attention.


    In an instant, Zheng Fan deduced the situation.


    "Little wench, so it was you who cursed me?" Zheng Fan said coldly.


    Zheng Fan assumed it was merely a curse technique,pletely unaware of Hao Meili''s unique physique.


    "Great Celestial Zheng Fan, there are many powerful individuals observing here. It would be wise for you not to get involved in this matter. The Great Yan Sacred Court will be grateful to you afterward," Zhong Shan shook his head and advised.


    "Hahaha, someone already told me this when I arrived. With so many blessings, you only reached the second level of the Celestial Realm? With such pathetic talent, you expect me to heed your advice?" Zheng Fan sneered.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed. If someone could discern his cultivation level, their cultivation must be above that of a Great Celestial. Was someone more powerful than Zheng Fan watching him?


    "The highest cultivation in your court is just at the Celestial level? And yet, you call yourselves a Sacred Court? Even the weakest Heavenly Courts in the Great Thousand World are stronger than you. A Sacred Court weaker than a Heavenly Court? Truly the weakest in history!" Zheng Fanughed.


    The entire court red at him with anger. This Great Celestial was bing increasingly insufferable.


    "If it weren''t for the presence of so many forces outside, I could destroy your entire court by myself! I''m giving you onest chance: hand over the Great Celestial Artifact, or I won''t be merciful!" Zheng Fan''s expression turned cold.


    "Great Celestial Zheng Fan? Hmph, who do you think you are? I curse you! I curse you with festering sores all over your body, rotting limbs, and an explosive death!" Hao Meili shouted furiously.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    This time, Zheng Fan was prepared. As Hao Meili cursed, a red glow surrounded him, forming a protective shield. However, the shield wavered as if being attacked from all sides.


    Zheng Fan looked at the shield around him, cold sweat forming on his forehead.


    "What a powerful curse! A mere Celestial almost managed to curse me, a Great Celestial? What a formidable curse!" Zheng Fan eximed, shaken.


    "I''ve changed my mind. Hand over the Great Celestial Artifact, and give me this girl to deal with, or I''ll ughter your entire court!" Zheng Fan''s face turned vicious.


    "A Great Celestial?" Zhong Shan chuckled softly.


    As he shook his head, Zhong Shan coldly drew out the great de "Longevity."


    The Longevity de was crystalline and transparent, emitting a chilling aura. Merely holding it made one feel its unshakable power.


    "A Great Celestial Artifact?" Zheng Fan''s eyes gleamed.


    "Zhong Shan?" Hao Meili asked in confusion, thinking Zhong Shan was about to concede.


    The ministers all looked at Zhong Shan.


    "The Great Yan Sacred Court cannot be insulted so easily. Great Celestial Zheng Fan? You reached the Great Celestial Realm 1,652 years ago. For a Great Celestial, that''s merely the beginning, isn''t it? I''ve given you enough respect. Since you don''t want it, you leave me no choice but to act," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "How do you know that?" Zheng Fan was taken aback.


    How could he know my background? Hasn''t he just ascended and split Heaven and Earth?


    How did Zhong Shan know? In the small world, he had captured and interrogated visitors from the Great Thousand World. Although his knowledge of the various forces wasn''tprehensive, he had a general understanding. With Zhong Shan''s meticulous analysis, he could discern which people to avoid and which to confront head-on.


    "This great de is called ''Longevity.'' I am indeed at the second level of the Celestial Realm! Let''s see if you, Great Celestial Zheng Fan, can withstand it!" Zhong Shan dered.

 Chapter 829: Death by a Thousand Cuts

    <h4>Chapter 829: Death by a Thousand Cuts</h4>


    "The great de is named ''Longevity.'' I am indeed at the second level of the Celestial Realm! Let''s see if you, Great Celestial Zheng Fan, can handle it!" Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s bold words, the court officials were excited. Their Sacred King was always so assertive. Hao Meili also looked on with enthusiasm.


    However, some officials, like Shui Jing, showed a hint of concern. Shui Jing frowned slightly, puzzled as to why Zhong Shan would engage now. With so many forces watching from outside, this Great Celestial, though strong, was merely a probe. What would happen next if Zhong Shan revealed his strength now?


    Despite his doubts, Shui Jing had great faith in Zhong Shan, as every action Zhong Shan took seemed to have deep meaning.


    The puzzlement wasn''t limited to Shui Jing and the others. The countless forces watching from the periphery also had strange expressions on their faces.


    At the Great Beginning Sacred Court''s residence:


    "Sacred King, is it true that the Sacred King of that court is only at the second level of the Celestial Realm?" Sima Zongheng expressed disbelief.


    This was unbelievable. The second level of the Celestial Realm? How was that possible? Other Sacred Kings, after splitting Heaven and Earth, reached the Great Celestial Realm or, at the very least, the tenth level of the Celestial Realm, the pinnacle of celestial cultivation.


    But this new Sacred King was only at the second level?


    Too, too, too weak!


    "In our Fengzhong Territory, some Heavenly Court rulers have reached the Great Celestial Realm. This Sacred King is only at the second level of the Celestial Realm? Even weaker than a Heavenly Court? What kind of Sacred Court is this?"


    "Truly, this is the weakest Sacred Court in history. And the weakest Sacred King!" another person remarked.


    "What kind of misfortune did he suffer to receive so little blessing from the Great Thousand World?"


    "This Sacred Court is too fragile!"


    The ministers had no confidence in Zhong Shan. Just then, in the distance, Zhong Shan pointed his great de directly at Great Celestial Zheng Fan!


    "What? What is he doing? He''s going to duel Zheng Fan?" Sima Zongheng''s face twitched slightly.


    "Did splitting Heaven and Earth damage his brain?"


    "A second-level Celestial dueling a Great Celestial? Isn''t he courting death?"


    "Something feels off," Sima Zongheng immediately frowned, sensing something.


    At the Haotian Bright Pce, where the Jade Emperor resided:


    "Jade Emperor, this situation seems peculiar," the three-eyed manmented strangely.


    "This small world has produced many strong individuals, and if he takes action, it will surely be something unexpected!" Wen Shen said.


    "Unexpected? This is a Great Celestial versus a Celestial. The gap is toorge!" the three-eyed man shook his head.


    "But this Celestial wields a Great Celestial Artifact, while the Great Celestial has only a Celestial Artifact," Wen Shen shook his head.


    "So what?"


    "Watch, something exciting will happen!" the Jade Emperor said lightly.


    "Yes!" The discussions ceased as everyone focused on the unfolding scene.


    Amidst the discussions of the surrounding forces, far away at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court:


    Zhong Shan pointed his long de at Zheng Fan.


    "Hahahaha..." Zheng Fanughed heartily.


    "If given time to form a ''world,'' I would be cautious of you borrowing the power of the Great Yan Empire. Unfortunately, you just split Heaven and Earth; none of you have a ''world'' yet. Without a ''world,'' you cannot leverage the power of the Great Yan Empire against me!" Zheng Fan said disdainfully.


    Zhong Shan remained calm andposed as he replied, "You may underestimate me, but I won''t be swayed by your taunts. Let''s see how your ''world'' fares against my de."


    With a swift motion, Zhong Shan''s de, Longevity, gleamed with a cold, unyielding light. The ministers and Hao Meili watched intently, their faith in Zhong Shan unwavering despite the odds stacked against him.


    Zheng Fan, confident in his superiority, sneered, "You think your de can challenge my ''world''? I''ll crush you and take what I came for."


    As the two opponents faced off, the atmosphere grew tense. The surrounding forces watched closely, eager to see the oue of this unexpected duel.


    As they spoke, an immense me suddenly encircled the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. mes surged, creating an inferno that seemed to consume the very heavens and earth.


    From the outside, it looked like a massive fireball enveloping everything within.


    Inside, Zhong Shan surveyed the surroundings.


    Thanks to Nangong Sheng''s formation, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court was temporarily protected from the mes. However, this protection would notst indefinitely.


    This was a world of mes, and in the distance, a blue me flickered, seemingly alive, stabilizing this fiery realm. The blue me appeared to be a sentient treasure, filled with spiritual power.


    "Is that your root divine sense?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at the blue me.


    "Indeed. My root divine sense, ''Blue Heart me,'' is my most powerful treasure. But for you, I won''t need to use it," Great Celestial Zheng Fan sneered, eyeing the ''Longevity'' de in Zhong Shan''s hand.


    "Alright, then take this!" Zhong Shan''s expression turned serious.


    With a stomp, Zhong Shanunched himself forward, wielding ''Longevity'' in a fierce sh aimed at Zheng Fan.


    Heavenly Rule, Ten Thousand Waves!


    A massive de shadow appeared in the void, stretching from the entrance of the Longevity Hall to Zheng Fan.


    Zheng Fan extended his left palm, intending to catch Zhong Shan''s de barehanded. A Celestial attacking a Great Celestial with a de? It wasughable.


    Heavenly Rule, Ten Thousand Waves!


    But Zhong Shan''s sh was no joke! ''Longevity'' was crafted by Zhong Shan himself. Even if it couldn''t unleash its full power, it could still exert at least eighty percent of it.


    As the de descended, it was like a heavenly chasm, a towering ice wall cleaving down. A palpable force ofws emanated from the de, exuding an overwhelming chill that repelled the surrounding mes. Ice and snow shed around the de.


    Heavenly Rule, Ten Thousand Waves! It was the umtion of ten thousand de strikes. Realizing the danger, Zheng Fan''s expression changed. Protective shieldsyered withws appeared around him. He also attempted to summon the ''Blue Heart me'' to protect himself.


    "Awuu!"


    A devouring sound echoed within the fiery world. The Celestials of Great Yan saw a monstrous eight-tailed creature sh near the Blue Heart me, which then disappeared along with the me.


    The Sacred King''s divine beast?


    It was the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, a terrifying creature that had just devoured the root divine sense of a Great Celestial��a treasure akin to a Great Celestial artifact.


    Gone in an instant?


    "Boom!"


    The disappearance of the Blue Heart me, Zheng Fan''s root divine sense, caused a bacsh within him. His blood surged, and his face turned pale.


    As his concentration faltered, Zhong Shan''s ''Longevity'' struck.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The terrifying Great Celestial artifact, coupled with the Heavenly Rule, Ten Thousand Waves, obliterated nearly all of Zheng Fan''s protective shields before shing with his Celestial artifact sword.


    A Celestial artifact against a Great Celestial artifact?


    As Zheng Fan''s sword shattered, he was sent plummeting thousands of feet by Zhong Shan''s powerful strike. His clothes were torn, and a massive gash appeared on his shoulder.


    A single strike decided the battle?


    Zheng Fan''s face was filled with frustration. He had severely underestimated Zhong Shan and the power of a Great Celestial artifact. His carelessness had cost him dearly.


    Seething with anger, Zheng Fan red at Zhong Shan.


    "You''ve angered me now. You''re dead!" Zheng Fan tossed aside his broken sword and drew another, surrounded by an endless fiery aura.


    How would Zhong Shan withstand the wrath of a Great Celestial?


    Just as Zheng Fan was about to strike:


    "Three Zhong Shans?" Zheng Fan''s expression changed!


    "No, that''s a Heavenly Demon, an advanced Heavenly Demon?" Zheng Fan''s face twisted in realization.


    As he tried to dispel the Heavenly Demon within him, Zhong Shan calmly spoke, "Di Xuanxuan, Thousand Cuts Execution!"


    "Understood," Di Xuanxuan replied without hesitation. Perhaps this would be his final battle, and he wanted to give his all for the Great Yan Sacred Court.


    "I''ll help curse him to death!" Hao Meili eximed, her eyes gleaming with determination.


    "Very well," Zhong Shan agreed.


    With thebined force of Huan Ji''s Heavenly Demon, Hao Meili''s curses, and Di Xuanxuan''s ferocious attacks, they targeted the overconfident Zheng Fan.


    At the Great Beginning Sacred Court''s residence:


    "Sacred King, Zheng Fan has made his move. Once he activates his world, those without a world cannot withstand his attacks. They''ll be doomed for sure. Isn''t it happening too fast?" an official remarked.


    "Isn''t it better if they die?" Sima Zongheng sneered.


    "But if they die, what was the point of using here?"


    "The initial goal was different. Now that we''ve dyed until so many forces have gathered, our original goal is unattainable," Sima Zongheng shook his head.


    "A Sacred Court that can split Heaven and Earth won''t be destroyed so easily. Besides, Zheng Fan has only just entered the Great Celestial Realm," the Sacred King of Great Beginning said calmly.


    At the Haotian Bright Pce, where the Jade Emperor resided:


    "Jade Emperor, will the Eighth Princess be in danger?" the three-eyed man asked with concern.


    "Do you remember the three powerful beings who broke through the barrier and reached the small world two hundred years ago? At that time, I sensed the presence of this new Sacred King," Wen Shen remarked.


    "What?"


    "He must have been in a battle then, and the other party was a familiar old foe," Wen Shen smiled.


    "Kong Xuan!" the three-eyed man''s eyes widened.


    "Exactly, Kong Xuan. No matter how injured or suppressed he was by the small world, he was still Kong Xuan. If even Kong Xuan couldn''t defeat him, can this newly ascended Great Celestial?" Wen Shen exined.


    "Indeed," the Jade Emperor nodded.


    As the various forces watched with different emotions, the scene changed dramatically.


    A massive explosion erupted around the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, dispersing the surrounding mes.


    The sight revealed left the Great Celestials stunned.


    It wasn''t Zhong Shan who had acted, but a man in white robes.


    Six crescent-shaped treasures hovered around the white-robed man, then merged into his body. Before him, Zheng Fan was covered in blood, having been brutally killed by a thousand cuts.


    As Zheng Fan''s body fell, a ck-robed man caught it and ced it in a ck coffin, then carried it into a nearby hall. That was Mr. Corpse collecting the remains!


    Zheng Fan, a Great Celestial, had been gruesomely dismembered. A shocking end for such a powerful figure.


    This served as a harsh wake-up call to many rogue Great Celestials. Who was this white-robed man? Could he be a Celestial?


    In another force''s camp:


    The demon elder who had once ventured into the small world stood respectfully before a burly man with a purple beard.


    "Elder, this is the one I mentioned in my letter, Di Xuanxuan, a genius of the wolf n. Are you satisfied?" the demon elder asked respectfully.

 Chapter 830: Twenty-Two Great Celestials

    <h4>Chapter 830: Twenty-Two Great Celestials</h4>


    "Elder, this is the one I mentioned in my letter, Di Xuanxuan, a genius of the wolf n. Are you satisfied?" the demon elder asked respectfully.


    The purple-bearded man nodded in approval. "Indeed, he is even more exceptional than you were in your youth. He is qualified to enter the Shitian Sacred Realm."


    "The requirements for the Shitian Sacred Realm are extremely stringent. It took me a long time to find someone like him," the demon elder sighed.


    "The sins youmitted in the past are further reduced. You are currently at the Earth Celestial level, correct?" the purple-bearded man asked.


    "Yes! Before I clear my past sins, I dare not unlock my soul seal," the demon elder replied humbly.


    "For finding this wolf genius, I will report your contribution to our superiors. You may now unseal anotheryer and advance to the Celestial level," the purple-bearded man stated.


    "Thank you, Elder!" the demon elder responded gratefully.


    A blue light shed on the demon elder''s body as if something had been unlocked. A surge of elemental energy rushed toward him, and in an instant, his appearance transformed significantly. It was clear that if the demon elder wished, his cultivation could quickly rise from Earth Celestial to Celestial!


    "Congrattions, Elder!" Ten white-robed individuals behind him congratted him respectfully.


    The demon elder looked at them, a faint smile on his face as he epted their congrattions. However, only he knew the bitterness in his heart.


    <strong>At the Lingxiao Heavenly Court:</strong>


    Di Xuanxuan, with the help of Hao Meili and Huan Ji, managed to kill a Great Celestial. Hao Meili''s curse disrupted his focus, Huan Ji''s Heavenly Demon disturbed his mind, and Zhong Shan''s destruction of his root divine sense disoriented him.


    One Great Celestial was killed in such an aggrieved manner!


    "Zheng Fan? More like ''Annoying Fan''! His name is truly fitting," Hao Meili continued to mock.


    Zheng Fan was just a warm-up, a mere probe. Zhong Shan knew that the real crisis was just beginning.


    "Sacred King, six Great Celestials have broken through the Immortal World from the east and are heading this way!" Shui Jing reported with a frown.


    Six Great Celestials?


    While everyone was still processing this:


    "Sacred King, five Great Celestials have broken through the Immortal World from the west and areing this way!"


    "This is bad, six Great Celestials are approaching from the south as well!"


    "And five more from the north!"


    Shui Jing continued to report.


    With each announcement, everyone''s brows furrowed deeper.


    Great Celestials��how many were there? Twenty-two? It''s said that Great Celestials are rare even in the Great Thousand World, yet suddenly twenty-two appeared?


    Twenty-two? Even Di Xuanxuan''s expression changed!


    Di Xuanxuan knew the strength of Great Celestials better than anyone. Against Zheng Fan, without the help of Hao Meili and Huan Ji, and without Zhong Shan destroying his root divine sense, Di Xuanxuan wouldn''t have been able to take down Zheng Fan.


    Zheng Fan was only at the initial stage of the Great Celestial Realm. Dealing with one was already difficult, and now there were twenty-two? Moreover, these Great Celestials might possess Great Celestial artifacts, unlike Zheng Fan.


    What now? Twenty-two Great Celestials?


    <strong>At the Great Beginning Sacred Court''s residence:</strong>


    The officials were stunned as they looked into the distance.


    "Sacred King, what should we do? Twenty-two Great Celestials are approaching!" one of the officials eximed in shock.


    "Let''s see how they handle this. The strength of their Sacred Court will soon be revealed," Sima Zongheng said with a sneer.


    "But what if they manage to fend off these Great Celestials?" another official wondered.


    "The strength to split Heaven and Earth isn''t easy to annihte. Besides, Zheng Fan was only a novice Great Celestial," the Sacred King of Great Beginning said calmly.


    As the various forces watched, the situation at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court became increasingly tense. The arrival of twenty-two Great Celestials was a dire threat, and the court officials could only wait and see how their Sacred King would respond to this unprecedented challenge.


    "Twenty-two Great Celestials? They''re in such a hurry? Did they n this together?"


    "No, these people are all rogue cultivators. Or rather, the rogue Great Celestials who were watching have almost all charged in. Twenty-two of them. Even if this new Sacred Court had miraculous powers, it wouldn''t survive."


    "Should we go in now?"


    "Is there any need? With this wave of attacks, can the weak Sacred Court before us still exist? They managed to defeat one Great Celestial, but against twenty-two, how could they possibly hold out?" Sima Zongheng sneered.


    "Not necessarily," the Sacred King of Great Beginning shook his head.


    "Uh?"


    "This small world of the Fengzhong Territory''s opening has attracted so many external forces. Their objectives must be different from ours. They won''t just sit back and watch this Sacred Court be destroyed," the Sacred King said insightfully.


    "Sacred King, you are wise. But given their objectives, why haven''t they taken action at this critical moment?"


    <strong>At the Haotian Bright Pce, where the Jade Emperor resided:</strong>


    "Jade Emperor, the Eighth Princess has just made a move," Wen Shen said gravely.


    "I saw it. Others think it was just a curse, not realizing it''s the ''Wanxie Extreme Yin Body.'' We can''t expose more. Follow me into the Immortal World!" the Jade Emperormanded.


    "Yes!" the ministers replied.


    The Jade Emperor took a step forward, leading his ministers as they soared into the sky. The powerful faction of the Haotian Bright Pce had mobilized.


    Other major forces watched this unfold, each growing more serious.


    "Sacred King, the Jade Emperor of the Haotian Bright Pce? The people of the Great Hong Sacred Court have mobilized!" Sima Zongheng noted.


    "The Jade Emperor?" The Sacred King of Great Beginning seemed puzzled.


    "This Great Hong Sacred Court is very peculiar. It rules over fourrge continents and calls itself the ''Heavenly Court.'' It never expands outward, seeming very docile, but the internal workings are exceptionally deep. Invaders are mostly destroyed, but despite wiping out external threats, it doesn''t expand beyond its four continents, as if merely guarding them is sufficient. A strange Sacred Court," another person exined.


    "Does the Sacred King know much about the Great Hong Sacred Court?" Sima Zongheng asked, puzzled.


    "The Great Hong Sacred Court is indeed deep. The Jade Emperor appears soft but is extremely patient," the Sacred King of Great Beginning said calmly.


    "Patient? What does a Sacred Court ruler have to be patient about?" the ministers wondered.


    "The Great Hong Sacred Court is very far from us. You don''t need to worry too much about it," the Sacred King of Great Beginning shook his head, offering no further exnation.


    "Yes!"


    <strong>At the Lingxiao Heavenly Court:</strong>


    Zhong Shan stood before the Longevity Hall, his ministers gathered behind him, unsure of the Sacred King''s strategy. Twenty-two Great Celestials? How could they possibly break this encirclement?


    Elder Tian nced at Zhong Shan, then shifted his gaze to a nearby peak, the World Peak.


    The Sacred King doesn''t intend to call upon the powerful Tian family members in the World Peak, does he? But the ancestor himself had said that he shouldn''t be awakened for three thousand years. Could the Sacred King intend to forcibly awaken the ancestor?


    A hint of worry shed in Elder Tian''s eyes. He didn''t want to disturb Tian Shenzi, but how else could this dire situation be resolved?


    He looked from the World Peak back to the Sacred King, concern etched on his face.


    This was an unprecedented disaster. Wave after wave of powerful beings from the Great Thousand World was something the Great Yan Sacred Court had never faced before. In another Sacred Court, the ministers would have already been in a state of panic.


    Zhong Shan, however, remained calm andposed, which instilled a degree of confidence in his followers. They knew their Sacred King always had a n, even in the face of overwhelming odds.


    However, the Great Yan Sacred Court is different. The path to this point has been forged through wave after wave of trials. In the small world, countless storms were weathered, and each time, the Sacred King led everyone through the crisis. Now, everyone still believes that the Sacred King can lead them out of this predicament!


    As everyone''s eyes showed unwavering determination��


    <strong>Whoosh</strong> <strong>Whoosh</strong> <strong>Whoosh</strong>...


    One strong wind swept in, then another, and another, wave after wave. Powerful auras emerged one after another, causing the entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court to tremble.


    Looking up into the sky, numerous figures hovered in midair.


    There were swordsmen, burly men wielding sabers, elegantly dressed women, hunchbacked elders, Daoist-robed immortals, and a golden, radiating Buddha. Each of them was staring at Zhong Shan in the center of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Great Yan Sacred Court, Zhong Shan! What brings you all here?" Zhong Shan called out loudly.


    "You are the Sacred King, Zhong Shan? I hear you are only at the second level of the Celestial Realm?" a purple-robed man suddenly spoke.


    As the purple-robed man spoke, the other twenty-one Great Celestials remained silent, indicating that he was the most prominent among them.


    "May I ask your name, Great Celestial?" Zhong Shan looked at the purple-robed man.


    "Dong Jianfeng," the purple-robed man replied solemnly.


    "Great Celestial Dong Jianfeng, may I ask what brings you all here?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "We want all the Great Celestial artifacts of the Great Yan Sacred Court," Dong Jianfeng demanded.


    "All the Great Celestial artifacts? I only have this de, ''Longevity.'' There are twenty-two of you. How should I give it to you? To whom?" Zhong Shan smiled faintly.


    This was a tactic to sow discord, and sure enough, some of the Great Celestials frowned slightly.


    "You are an impressive Sacred King. Ever since the heavens were opened, I''ve been watching you. You should be well aware of the many forces surrounding you. The highest cultivation in your court is at the Celestial level, yet you remain calm even when faced with so many Great Celestials. When we all arrived, you didn''t even flinch. You are formidable; you are a true hero!" Dong Jianfeng said sternly.


    His words made several Great Celestials frown. It was indeed unusual for Zhong Shan to be soposed. What confidence did he have? The highest cultivation in his court was only at the Celestial level. What made him so fearless?


    "What are you trying to say?" Zhong Shan looked at Dong Jianfeng.


    "I can see that this small world is extraordinary. In the past, a Celestial used a long sword to challenge the heavens. Later, a saint''s corpse, the powerful Kong Xuan, the Chaos Bell, and the Blood Divine Scripture appeared. They attracted many forces. At its birth, there were already one hundred and eight Great Celestial artifacts guarding its borders. This is no ordinary small world. I don''t care to understand your small world. Hand over the one hundred and eight stele-shaped Great Celestial artifacts and the de in your hand, and we won''t harm you," Dong Jianfeng dered.


    "That''s right, hand over all your Great Celestial artifacts, and we won''t harm you."


    "You have no choice!"


    Looking at the divine beings and buddhas in the sky, Zhong Shan smiled faintly. They imed they wouldn''t harm him, meaning they wanted to avoid any karmic entanglements. The external forces were watching. If they destroyed the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, these forces wouldn''t just stand by. They would inevitably get involved, and the rogue Great Celestials would get nothing. They simply wanted to intimidate and take advantage.


    Do they think they can take something from me, Zhong Shan, with mere threats? How naive!


    Zhong Shan sneered, "You think you can intimidate me into giving up my treasures? Who gave you the courage to threaten the Great Yan Sacred Court?"


    "Oh? What do you intend to do?" Dong Jianfeng asked, raising an eyebrow.


    Zhong Shanughed, "You rogue cultivators areughable, thinking you can take something from me. If you''re so confident, let''s see what you''ve got!"


    As he spoke, the de in Zhong Shan''s hand, ''Longevity,'' gleamed with a cold light.


    "In that case, we won''t be polite!" Dong Jianfeng snorted and swung his long sword, sending a powerful sword aura toward Zhong Shan.


    Just then, Zhong Shan shouted, "World Peak, rise!"


    At Zhong Shan''smand, the World Peak near the Lingxiao Heavenly Court suddenly shone brightly, and an immense aura surged forth, shaking the surroundings!


    "What?" Dong Jianfeng and the other Great Celestials'' faces changed drastically as they sensed the aura from the World Peak��it was Tian Shenzi!


    "Zhong Shan, you dare��"


    "Indeed, today you will witness the true power of the Great Yan Sacred Court!" Zhong Shan roared.


    At Zhong Shan''smand, Tian Shenzi led numerous powerful members of the Tian family onto the battlefield. Instantly, the twenty-two Great Celestials surrounding the Lingxiao Heavenly Court felt immense pressure, and some even began to retreat.


    "Zhong Shan, let''s settle this another time��"


    "No need to settle anythingter. Since you''vee, don''t think about leaving!" Zhong Shan pointed the ''Longevity'' de at Dong Jianfeng and the others, his aura overwhelming.


    At this moment, the sky above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court was tense, and a fierce battle was imminent.

 Chapter 831 - 834: The Impact of Vast Forces

    <h4>Chapter 831: Chapter 834: The Impact of Vast Forces</h4>


    From the south, a group of seventeen approached, led by a man in a loose white robe with a silver mask. Even without seeing his face, his presence exuded an air of nobility.


    Seventeen people, all at least at the level of Great Celestial strength.


    The previously dominant twenty-one rogue Great Celestials now felt deeply ashamed.


    Great Celestials, symbols of power and prestige, were always formidable figures wherever they went. But now, they seemed almostughable inparison. How many were there now? Nearly a hundred Great Celestials surrounded them, organized by faction, while the rogue Great Celestials were clearly outmatched.


    "Greetings, Taichu Sacred King!" the ten from the Taiji Sacred Court saluted.


    "Greetings, Taichu Sacred King!" echoed from the others, including those from the two other Sacred Courts and the dojos.


    In the Fengzhong Territory, the Taichu Sacred King was respected by all, a ruler whomanded reverence.


    Zhong Shan looked directly at the masked Taichu Sacred King.


    The Jade Emperor observed calmly. Seeing the Taichu Sacred King, he showed no concern, remainingposed.


    "Sacred King of Great Yan?" the Taichu Sacred King addressed Zhong Shan.


    "Yes, Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan responded with a nod, his expression serious.


    "The Fengzhong Territory already has three great dojos and three great Sacred Courts. We don''t need more. A new Sacred Court is not weed here unless you leave the Fengzhong Territory. Otherwise, you will be attacked. I offer you another path: be a vassal of the Taichu Sacred Court, and I will ensure the safety of your Great Yan Sacred Court," the Taichu Sacred King said calmly.


    Zhong Shan frowned.


    "If you refuse, no one can protect your Great Yan Sacred Court," the Taichu Sacred King dered.


    At that moment, another figure appeared nearby��a handsome man in a purple robe, exuding a powerful and vast aura.


    "The three Sacred Courts and three dojos have all gathered? It''s been millennia since the six major factions of the Fengzhong Territory were together," the purple-robed man remarked with a smile.


    Clearly, this was the leader of thest dojo.


    "Greetings, Purple Cloud Master!" the Great Celestials bowed slightly to the purple-robed man.


    The Purple Cloud Master, head of the Purple Cloud Dojo in the Fengzhong Territory, had arrived alone, much like the Taichu Sacred King.


    "Jade Emperor, this is not your Four Continents. Do you intend to meddle in the internal affairs of the Fengzhong Territory?" the Purple Cloud Master asked, looking directly at the Jade Emperor.


    "Internal affairs? That depends on the situation. If it involves me, I will intervene," the Jade Emperor replied calmly.


    The Jade Emperor had made his stance clear. The Purple Cloud Master frowned slightly, then looked at Zhong Shan, his gaze shifting to a woman behind him.


    Gan Bao''er! Seeing her, the Purple Cloud Master''s pupils contracted.


    "Central Master? Are you also interfering in the internal affairs of the Fengzhong Territory?" the Purple Cloud Master questioned.


    Central Master? Everyone was momentarily stunned. There was another master here? A master? Anyone who could be a master was a figure of immense power.


    All eyes turned to Gan Bao''er.


    The rogue Great Celestials wiped the sweat from their foreheads. Had they been too impulsive? Was there another master present here?


    Perhaps the world is too vast, and the Jade Emperor had never heard of the Central Master. He was slightly puzzled upon hearing the Purple Cloud Master''s address.


    "Whoosh!"


    A fierce wind blew, bringing another ten Great Celestials.


    At the forefront was a woman in a luxurious robe and a purple jade crown, resembling Gan Bao''er in every way.


    "Purple Cloud Master, it''s been a while," the woman said.


    "Central Master?" the Purple Cloud Master frowned.


    Resembling Gan Bao''er exactly? The Central Master?


    Zhong Shan held Bao''er''s hand, who looked coldly at the Central Master.


    "Who are you?" Bao''er demanded.


    "Didn''t Zhong Shan tell you?" the Central Master smiled faintly.


    "What do you want?"


    "Don''t y dumb. Once I help your husband fend off these enemies, you wille back to the Central Dojo with me," the Central Master stated inly and thennded in front of the Longevity Hall with her nine subordinates.


    Gan Bao''er''s expression remained unchanged, clearly expecting this oue.


    "Is there more?" the Purple Cloud Master frowned.


    "Whoosh!"


    Another fierce wind blew, bringing a group of female Great Celestials. They were all in white, with expressions as cold as eternal ice.


    "Ice Goddess Pce Master? Are you also connected to the Great Yan Sacred Court?" the Purple Cloud Master frowned.


    It seemed all these forces wereing out of the woodwork.


    The leader, a woman of unparalleled beauty but with an icy demeanor, ignored the Purple Cloud Master and instead addressed Bei Qingsi: "Do you recognize me?"


    "Bei Qingsi greets the ancestor!" Bei Qingsi responded.


    "Good. After we fend off these enemies, you will return to the Ice Goddess Pce with me," the woman stated.


    Bei Qingsi looked at Zhong Shan, who nodded, and she agreed, "Yes."


    It was clear Zhong Shan had already discussed these matters with his consorts.


    The ten from the Ice Goddess Pcended before the Longevity Hall. The Pce Master and the Central Dojo members exchanged nces but said nothing.


    "Whoosh!"


    Another fierce wind brought ten men, their hair yellow and dry, whonded before the Longevity Hall and knelt on one knee.


    "The Archaic Family, ten emissaries of the Xun Hall, greet the Hall Master!" they dered.


    The ten men were bowing to Gu Qianyou!


    "Archaic Family? Hall Master? How am I a member of the Archaic Family?" Gu Qianyou asked calmly.


    "You have the bloodline of the Archaic Family. The Xun Hall has been without a master for fifty thousand years. Only someone with the Xun Cauldron can be the Hall Master. You are the Hall Master. The Family Head has ordered us to wee you home!" the leader exined.


    "Bloodline?" Gu Qianyou frowned.


    "We beg the Hall Master not to reveal this to anyone," the leader said. Then, he pointed his finger, and a yellow light shot toward Gu Qianyou.


    Gu Qianyou caught it, and it seemed to convey information directly into her mind. After five breaths, her brow furrowed deeply. She opened her eyes, looking much moreplex and troubled. She nced at Zhong Shan, clearly conflicted.


    "Is there really a bloodline connection?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Gu Qianyou nodded.


    "Hall Master, the Archaic Family hopes you will keep the bloodline inheritance confidential," the man reiterated.


    "No need to tell me for now," Zhong Shan said at the right moment.


    The ten members of the Archaic Family stood firm, while another faction arrived in the distance.


    "Whoosh!"


    Another group of ten descended onto the za in front of the Longevity Hall. The leader, dressed in a luxurious red robe with a purple jade crown, resembled Wu Jiutian.


    "Wu Jiutian?" Zhong Shan said in surprise.


    The leader, however, responded seriously, "I am not Wu Jiutian."


    "Uh!" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    Not Wu Jiutian? But the resemnce was uncanny!


    "Vermilion Bird!" the womanmanded.


    Suddenly, a Vermilion Bird flew out from Tian Ling''er''s arm.


    "Chirp!" The Vermilion Bird screeched angrily, disturbed from its rest.


    "Good, it''s still here," the woman smiled slightly.


    "And you are Tian Ling''er?" she then looked at Tian Ling''er.


    "What do you want?"


    "Nie Fancheng, Wu Jiutian, and Nie Qingqing are all in the Phoenix Territory. They asked me to bring you there," the woman exined.


    "Why should I believe you?" Tian Ling''er shook her head.


    The woman threw a jade slip towards Zhong Shan.


    "This is a letter from Nie Fancheng."


    Zhong Shan caught it and read it carefully. After a while, he took a deep breath and nodded.


    "It is indeed from Nie Fancheng," Zhong Shan said, frowning.


    "After this matter is resolved, Tian Ling''er wille with me to the Phoenix Territory," the woman stated bluntly.


    Tian Ling''er pouted, feeling ufortable, though Zhong Shan had prepared her for this before the opening of the heavens.


    The surrounding rogue cultivators now felt a sense of fear.


    Central Dojo, Ice Goddess Pce, Archaic Family, Phoenix Territory��so many factions? If they had acted rashly earlier, they might not have been able to leave now.


    "How does this small world have so many connections?" one rogue cultivator muttered quietly.


    As if there weren''t enough connections, another gust of wind brought more people.


    On the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, another group of ten people appeared, all dressed in white robes, looking directly at Di Xuansha.


    "Di Xuansha, the Sacred Sky Sanctuary invites you. After this matter, you will go to the Sacred Sky Sanctuary," the leader announced.


    Di Xuansha frowned, looked at the people before him, then at Zhong Shan, and finally nodded.


    Sacred Sky Sanctuary? The rogue cultivators were speechless. Was there any point in staying here?


    "Whoosh!"


    "Another one?" a rogue cultivator groaned.


    This time, Zhong Shan immediately recognized the neers.


    Ten men, each wearing armor, exuding a killing aura.


    Theynded in front of the Longevity Hall and bowed respectfully to Zhong Shan.


    "Great Qin, Wang Jian, by order of the Holy King, here to congratte the Sacred King of Great Yan on opening the heavens and to help clear out any enemies," Wang Jian bowed.


    Great Qin, Wang Jian!


    Holy King? Ying had be the ruler of a Sacred Court too?


    "General Wang, too kind!" Zhong Shan quickly replied.


    "Before the enemies are gone, Wang Jian and nine subordinates are at your disposal," Wang Jian stated directly.


    "Thank you!"


    Everyone waited a while longer, but no more forces arrived.


    The Fengzhong Territory''s six major factions had sent fifty-eight Great Celestial-level experts.


    The rogue cultivators, twenty-one in total, no longer posed much of a threat.


    The Great Yan Sacred Court, with its allied factions, now boasted eight major forces and eighty Great Celestial-level experts.


    In a short time, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court had gathered one hundred fifty-nine Great Celestials. It was an unimaginable and bizarre scene.


    Such a vast assembly of power, once shed, would surely lead to catastrophic destruction!


    The major factions eyed each other warily, none having anticipated this scenario.


    Behind the Taichu Sacred King, Sima Zongheng''s face was filled with jealousy and disbelief. What kind of situation was this? One hundred fifty-nine Great Celestials in a standoff? This was beyond exaggerated.


    One hundred fifty-nine Great Celestials, this scene was clearly beyond the control of any faction. The Jade Emperor frowned, the Purple Cloud Master frowned, and the Central Master and the Ice Goddess Pce Master all frowned.

 Chapter 832 - 831: The Buddha

    <h4>Chapter 832: Chapter 831: The Buddha</h4>


    "Riches cannot corrupt, poverty cannot change, and power cannot bend. This is what it means to be a true man!" Zhong Shan embodied this ideal, remaining unyielding even in the face of overwhelming power.


    "Esteemed Great Celestials, let me tell you, Great Celestial artifacts are not particrly significant in the Great Yan Sacred Court. They don''t hold much value in my eyes," Zhong Shan said with a sudden smile.


    Great Celestial artifacts aren''t significant in the Great Yan Sacred Court?


    The gathered Great Celestials wanted to p Zhong Shan. They had roamed the world for tens of thousands, even hundreds of thousands of years, and many still hadn''t obtained a Great Celestial artifact. Those who had knew the difficulty of acquiring and crafting them.


    Yet here was a mere Celestial saying Great Celestial artifacts were insignificant to him? His family had plenty? The Great Celestials were filled with frustration, but they couldn''t refute him!


    Indeed, over a hundred Great Celestial artifacts had been revealed since the heavens opened, so perhaps to this Celestial, they really weren''t significant!


    It was as if a group of bandits were robbing a wealthy miser, demanding a hundred taels of silver. The miser sneered at them, thinking, "I have plenty of silver, you poor fools!"


    The Great Celestials felt insulted by a Celestial but couldn''t argue back. They were speechless!


    "The most precious thing in the Great Yan Sacred Court, you cannot see. What a pity!" Zhong Shan said, looking at the Great Celestials.


    "Oh?" Dong Jianfeng''s eyes narrowed.


    The other Great Celestials also focused on Zhong Shan.


    "The most precious thing in the Great Yan Sacred Court is the heavenly rank. I can bestow heavenly ranks, lower and middle ranks, as I see fit. I think this is far more valuable than any external Great Celestial artifact!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Haha! What about the ''upper rank''?" Dong Jianfeng sneered.


    "In the Great Yan Sacred Court, rewards and punishments are clear. The upper rank is given only to those who make significant contributions to the court. Aren''t you all free-spirited individuals? After so many years, aren''t you tired? Have you ever considered joining a kingdom? Join the Great Yan, and you will start as lower ranks. After this battle, I promise to elevate you to middle ranks. As for the upper rank, with your abilities, earning contributions will be easy," Zhong Shan persuaded.


    "Hahahaha!" The Great Celestials burst intoughter, filled with disdain.


    "Join your Great Yan? What a joke! With our strength, we can gain heavenly ranks in any kingdom. Why join a kingdom that''s about to be destroyed?"


    "Not so. Which kingdom would grant you ''upper ranks'' of heavenly ranks? In the Great Yan, you can achieve this several times faster than in other kingdoms. It won''t take long, not long at all, to enjoy the benefits of the Great Yan Sacred Court!" Zhong Shan shook his head, continuing his persuasion.


    "A Great Celestial serving under a Celestial? Boy, you really dare to dream!" a burly man sneered.


    "Whether you dare or not is up to you. If you join, we can create a great world together. If not, it''s a pity," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    Zhong Shan''s words indeed stirred some of the Great Celestials'' minds. Within moments, three or four Great Celestials were already frowning in thought.


    "Humph!" Dong Jianfeng snorted.


    Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow, looking at Dong Jianfeng.


    "Enough nonsense. We don''t have time for your drivel. Hand over the Great Celestial artifacts now!" Dong Jianfeng demanded.


    Zhong Shan looked at Dong Jianfeng with mild surprise. Though his words were tempting, he knew it was impossible to sway them. His purpose was entirely different.


    "Great Celestial Dong, you think you can intimidate me into handing over my treasures?" Zhong Shan''s eyes gleamed with a steely resolve.


    Before Dong Jianfeng could respond, a calm yet powerful voice echoed from above, "Amitabha, why must we resort to violence?"


    A radiant golden Buddha descended from the sky, his presence exuding an aura of immense serenity and power. Hended gently between Zhong Shan and the Great Celestials, his golden light illuminating the entire area.


    "Who are you?" Dong Jianfeng demanded, taken aback by the sudden appearance.


    "I am known as the Buddha of the Golden Light. I havee to bring peace," the Buddha said, his voice soothing yet firm.


    Zhong Shan, recognizing the Buddha''s powerful aura and his potential to shift the bnce, decided to y along. "Great Celestial Dong, perhaps it is time to reconsider. Even the Buddha seeks a peaceful resolution."


    The Great Celestials exchanged uncertain nces. The presence of the Buddha added an unexpected variable to the situation. Dong Jianfeng, still wary but not wanting to escte unnecessarily, nodded grudgingly. "We will consider your offer, Sacred King Zhong Shan. But know this: we will not wait forever."


    With that, the Great Celestials retreated slightly, their aggressive stance softened but not entirely withdrawn.


    Zhong Shan, maintaining hisposure, thanked the Buddha with a nod. "Your presence is a blessing, Buddha of the Golden Light. Perhaps we can indeed find a way to coexist peacefully."


    The Buddha smiled serenely, his golden light radiating peace and tranquility, a stark contrast to the tension that had filled the air moments before.


    "Indeed, a few of the Great Celestials were persuaded, but this Dong Jianfeng is quite perceptive!" Zhong Shan noted inwardly.


    "What''s wrong, Great Celestial Dong Jianfeng? Just because you don''t want to join doesn''t mean the others don''t. Are you deciding the fate of all these Great Celestials? Should they all listen to you?" Zhong Shan asked, feigning confusion.


    Though his tone was merely inquisitive, Zhong Shan''s words were sharp. Unintentionally, he sowed seeds of discord among the Great Celestials, implying that Dong Jianfeng was their ''leader,'' thus making them seem like his subordinates.


    As expected, several Great Celestials looked at Dong Jianfeng with displeasure.


    Dong Jianfeng nced around and then back at Zhong Shan. He knew Zhong Shan was difficult to deal with, but he hadn''t expected his words to be even more troublesome.


    "Are you stalling for time? Hmph!" Dong Jianfeng snorted coldly, preparing to make a move.


    "Immeasurable Buddha~~~~~~!" Suddenly, a deep, resonant Buddhist chant echoed, causing the Great Celestials to raise their eyebrows and look toward the source of the sound.


    Before the people arrived, the Buddhist chant reached them. In the next moment, a group of ten golden-robed monks appeared, their bodies radiating golden light.


    The ten monks, dressed identically in robes, moved as one, their heads marked with the scars of Buddhist vows and their faces solemn and dignified. This was the first faction to appear.


    Zhong Shan had considered many possibilities, but he had not expected the first faction to be a group of bald monks.


    "Are you from the Tianyin Temple? Didn''t Tianyin Temple withdraw from the Fengzhong Territory? Why are you here again?" Dong Jianfeng asked sternly.


    From Dong Jianfeng''s tone, Zhong Shan immediately deduced that these ten monks were in the Great Celestial Realm, also known as Great Buddhas.


    Ten Great Buddhas had arrived?


    "Wee back, Buddha, reborn from Nirvana!" The leading Great Buddha called out toward the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Buddha reborn? The Buddha reincarnated? The Tianyin Sect leader? Tianyin Buddha?"


    The Great Celestials followed the Great Buddha''s gaze toward the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Buddha? Who is this Tianyin Buddha? Eventually, all eyes focused on Zhong Tian.


    "Me?" Zhong Tian looked bewildered.


    "Great Buddha, are you mistaken?" Zhong Shan asked, also puzzled.


    "The Buddha chose the Fengzhong Territory for his Nirvana and foretold his rebirth today. Before Nirvana, he sealed numerous Buddhist treasures in the small world. Every once in a while, a Buddhist treasure would descend, but only the Buddha himself could receive the Buddha''s soul mark!" The leading Great Buddha exined.


    "The Buddha''s soul mark?" Zhong Shan was confused.


    "The ''swastika'' (�d)," the Great Buddha rified.


    "The swastika?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrows rose.


    Indeed, Zhong Tian had obtained a ''swastika'' mark from the Buddhist treasures in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.


    Each time a grand extinction event urred, the Buddha''s treasure would descend. This was all prearranged by Zhong Tian''s past life as Tianyin Buddha?


    "You must be mistaken. How could I be your Buddha? I have no such memories!" Zhong Tian shook his head.


    "The Buddha has yet to achieve ''enlightenment.'' Once enlightened, past and present lives will be clear. Before entering Nirvana, the Buddha instructed that once the heavens opened, we were to bring you back to Tianyin Temple, away from the Fengzhong Territory," the leading Great Buddha said.


    "Father, what do you think of this?" Zhong Tian looked at Zhong Shan.


    The Great Celestials frowned, sensing an unexpected twist.


    "I don''t understand the ''swastika.'' How do you feel about it?" Zhong Shan asked Zhong Tian.


    "Although I''m not clear about my past life, the swastika feels familiar. Perhaps what they say is true," Zhong Tian admitted.


    The arrival of the Great Buddhas had introduced a new variable, causing unrest among the Great Celestials. This unforeseen development could potentially shift the bnce, giving Zhong Shan and his court a much-needed advantage.


    "Whether or not you were the Buddha in your past life, your current actions and choices are what matter. If you feel a connection, perhaps you should explore it further," Zhong Shan advised Zhong Tian, leaving the decision to him.


    The Great Celestials, sensing the shifting dynamics, remained wary. Zhong Shan''s strategic mind was evident, and they realized they were not just facing a simple celestial ruler but a formidable tactician. The situation had be far moreplex than they had anticipated.


    "Make your own decision then," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" Zhong Tian nodded.


    "Great Buddha, do you wish toe with us now?" the leading Great Buddha asked.


    "I won''t leave. You should go back," Zhong Tian shook his head.


    "Before the Buddha entered Nirvana, he instructed us to take you away if we sensed your presence after the heavens opened. We have an imperial pardon granted by the Buddha before Nirvana. If you insist on staying, we will have no choice but to go against your wishes," the Great Buddha shook his head.


    After a moment of hesitation, Zhong Tian replied, "I can go with you, but it must be after this matter is resolved. Otherwise, I will never find peace and will never achieve the ''emptiness'' needed to truly be your Buddha again."


    The Great Buddha looked deeply at the resolute Zhong Tian, then closed his eyes and chanted a Buddhist mantra.


    "Immeasurable Buddha~~~~~~~!"


    The situation changed instantly. What was previously a solo defense by the Lingxiao Heavenly Court now had the addition of ten Great Buddhas.


    The presence of ten Great Buddhas drastically changed the dynamics. The twenty-two rogue Great Celestials furrowed their brows, realizing the situation had be much moreplicated.


    "It''s him, Zhong Shan. He was stalling for time?" They all suddenly realized they had been tricked. What seemed like an easy task had now be extremely difficult.


    "Capture Zhong Shan!" Dong Jianfengmanded.


    At that moment, no one opposed Dong Jianfeng. Two Great Celestials quickly reached out to grab Zhong Shan.


    "Stop them!" Zhong Tian shouted.


    The Great Buddhas, although loyal to the Tianyin Temple, were not slow to act. As tworge hands reached down, two of the Great Buddhas extended their own hands to intercept.


    The Great Buddha''s hands grew incrediblyrge, colliding with the two Great Celestials'' hands.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Golden and red light burst forth in the sky as the two pairs of giant hands collided. The Lingxiao Heavenly Court remained unmoved, clearly stabilized by the Great Buddhas.


    "Immeasurable Buddha, please leave, all of you!" the leading Great Buddha said.


    Leave? At this point, how could the Great Celestials be willing to leave? After waiting for hundreds of years, their prize was almost within reach, only to be thwarted by Zhong Shan''s dy tactics?


    The Great Celestials were visibly displeased.


    "Fellow Daoists!" Dong Jianfeng suddenly called out.


    "Fellow Daoists, there are ten Great Buddhas, but we have twenty-two Great Celestials. If we work together, we can still capture Zhong Shan. I, Dong Jianfeng, promise that any Great Celestial artifacts we obtain will be evenly distributed among the twenty-two of us!" Dong Jianfeng proposed.


    Rogue cultivators were called such because they didn''t trust each other and couldn''t unite. Dong Jianfeng knew this well and immediately thought of a way to unify them. However, after years of being rogues, unity was a difficult concept to grasp.


    "I have one hundred and nine Great Celestial artifacts. How will you twenty-two divide them? It''s impossible to divide them evenly!" Zhong Shan added fuel to the fire.


    "Hmph, you troublemaker. Everyone, attack! We can''t leave empty-handed!" Dong Jianfeng roared in anger.


    The Great Celestials nodded and were about to make their move.


    "Where is Dong Jianfeng~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" a powerful voice suddenly echoed from afar, carrying an air of authority.


    "Who?" Dong Jianfeng turned and shouted.


    As soon as he uttered the word "who," an unusual scene unfolded. A massive force suddenly enveloped Dong Jianfeng, pulling him away instantly.


    Everyone watched in shock as Dong Jianfeng was sucked away.


    Turning to look, they saw another group approaching. Leading them was an incredibly handsome man, followed by nine others. Among them were a three-eyed man, a mysterious figure in ck robes, an elderly man holding a horsetail whisk, and an old Daoist wearing an Eight Trigrams robe. Dong Jianfeng was being pulled toward them, shrinking as he struggled, eventually being sucked into a purple and red gourd.


    The old Daoist in the Eight Trigrams robe quickly capped the gourd, sealing Dong Jianfeng inside.

 Chapter 833 - 832: The Jade Emperor of the Haotian Bright Palace

    <h4>Chapter 833: Chapter 832: The Jade Emperor of the Haotian Bright Pce</h4>


    A purple-gold gourd?


    Dong Jianfeng, a Great Celestial, was sucked into the gourd just by responding to a call? What kind of gourd was that? A Great Celestial artifact? And a top-tier one at that?


    "A true name treasure?" one of the Great Celestials muttered in surprise.


    At the mention of a true name treasure, the expressions of the other Great Celestials changed. These artifacts were among the most mysterious. It was said that each true name treasure contained a measure of fate, at least one yuan of it, forming a small world inside!


    Who was that old man in the Eight Trigrams robe?


    The Great Celestials looked at this new faction with a mixture of fear and curiosity. Who were these people? An entourage of a ruler? If even a minister could wield such power, how formidable was their leader?


    Some of the twenty-one remaining Great Celestials seemed to recognize the neers, their faces showing signs of apprehension.


    Zhong Shan also scrutinized their appearance, his face twitching slightly. Shui Jing, noticing the usually unppable Sacred King showing signs of unease, wondered if Zhong Shan knew them.


    It wasn''t that Zhong Shan knew them personally, but their attire was all too familiar. Their appearance was unmistakable.


    As for the purple-gold gourd, Zhong Shan had heard legends about it. To think it could even capture a Great Celestial!


    The group of ten flew toward the Longevity Hall, their presence overwhelming. Despite their small number, they seemed to outshine everything around them.


    The ten Great Buddhas looked at the neers with grave expressions. While some among the group were on guard, the leaders appeared rxed, treating the situation as inconsequential.


    The twenty-one remaining Great Celestials halted their attacks. Dong Jianfeng''s fate had been a stark reminder of the potential danger posed by these neers.


    The groupnded in front of Hao Meili.


    "Ninth Princess," nine of the neers bowed slightly to Hao Meili.


    Hao Meili''s expression shifted continuously as she looked at the leader of the group, sensing something familiar yet uncertain.


    "Who are you?" Hao Meili demanded rudely.


    Courtesy? Hao Meili had never cared for such formalities.


    "I am your ancestor," the leader replied.


    The Great Celestials frowned at this deration. Who was this man, iming to be the ancestor of a little girl?


    "You''re Haotian?" Hao Meili asked bluntly.


    Though she had guessed, she wanted confirmation.


    Hao Meili''s words caused the nine behind the leader to frown slightly.


    "I am Haotian, the ruler of the Great Hong Heavenly Court," Haotian confirmed with a smile.


    "What do you want?" Hao Meili raised an eyebrow.


    Despite his status, Hao Meili showed no respect for Haotian. In fact, there seemed to be a hint of resentment in her tone.


    Seeing Hao Meili''s impatience, a small golden dragon suddenly flew over,nding on her shoulder and ring at the group.


    Upon seeing the little golden dragon, Haotian''s pupils contracted. His ministers, the old man in the Eight Trigrams robe and the one holding the horsetail whisk, also stared intently at the dragon. Even the figure in the ck robe seemed focused on it.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed. He had identified the neers'' identities and noticed Haotian''s shock. What could have caused such a reaction?


    "Why are you here?" Hao Meili demanded again, her tone still disrespectful.


    Haotian, maintaining hisposure, responded, "I havee to take you back to the Great Hong Heavenly Court. Your presence is needed there."


    Hao Meili''s eyes flickered with defiance. "I''m not going anywhere with you. You have no right to take me away."


    The tension in the air was palpable. The Great Celestials watched closely, unsure of the oue but knowing that the presence of Haotian and his ministers had drastically altered the dynamics.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan remained observant. The situation had be incrediblyplex, and the stakes were higher than ever. The confrontation between the factions was reaching a critical point, and the slightest misstep could lead to an all-out battle.


    A small golden dragon? Could there be something special about it?


    "I''m here to take you home!" Haotian said, satisfaction evident in his eyes.


    "This is my home!" Hao Meili retorted, eyes zing with defiance.


    This is my home? Everyone frowned. Haotian turned to Zhong Shan.


    "What is your name?" Haotian asked in a deep voice.


    "Great Yan Sacred Court, Zhong Shan!" Zhong Shan reported his name for the third time.


    "I intend to take Hao Meili with me. Do you have any objections?" Haotian asked.


    Haotian''s question was neither dismissive nor overly respectful, but it seemed to be directed more at Hao Meili than Zhong Shan.


    "Hao Meili is my friend, not my subordinate. Her decisions are her own. If she wants to go, I won''t stop her. If she wants to stay, she is wee. However, if you try to force her to do something against her will, I won''t allow it," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Despite knowing the strength and power of the ten before him, Zhong Shan stood firm on his principles, confident that everything was still within his expectations.


    "How dare you! Do you know who you are speaking to?" a three-eyed man behind Haotian roared.


    Zhong Shan looked coldly at the three-eyed man, "This is not your ce to speak!"


    Zhong Shan''s icy gaze made the three-eyed man furious, but as he was about tosh out, Haotian raised a hand to stop him.


    "Humph!" the three-eyed man snorted coldly.


    Haotian gave Zhong Shan a long, deep look before turning to Hao Meili.


    "Why do you refuse toe home with me?" Haotian asked kindly.


    "This is my home. My family is all dead. Why should I go with you?" Hao Meili replied bluntly.


    Indeed, Hao Meili''s stubborn and willful nature had been shaped by her life''s experiences. With her family gone, what was there to pursue? Haotian might be her ancestor, but what did that matter to her? Not cursing him was already a good thing.


    Haotian frowned slightly at her response and looked at the man in ck robes.


    "You speak to her," Haotian said with a sigh.


    "Who are you?" Hao Meili asked, eyeing the man in ck robes curiously.


    "Do you remember the Western Poison Emperor?" the man in ck robes asked.


    "Who are you? What do you want?" Hao Meili asked, suddenly wary and angry like a cat whose tail had been stepped on.


    "I founded the gue Sect. Who do you think I am?" the man in ck robes replied.


    "What do you want?"


    "I want to tell you that I can bring the Western Poison Emperor back to life," the man in ck robes said calmly.


    "Impossible! His soul and lifespan were exhausted. He''s as dead as can be!" Hao Meili vehemently denied, though a glimmer of hope flickered in her eyes.


    "Give me the gue Sect''s master token," the man in ck robes demanded.


    Hao Meili quickly produced a token, the one the Western Poison Emperor had left her before he died.


    Grasping the token, the man in ck robes channeled a faint energy through it. A subtle aura emanated from the token.


    "It''s the old man''s aura! It''s really his aura!" Hao Meili eximed, tears of excitement welling up in her eyes.


    The man in ck robes withdrew his hand, causing the aura to disappear.


    The prospect of bringing back the Western Poison Emperor stirred deep emotions in Hao Meili. She had always been headstrong and independent, but the chance to reunite with the mentor who had raised her was a powerful lure.


    "Come with me, and I will revive the Western Poison Emperor," the man in ck robes offered.


    Hao Meili hesitated, her usual defiance tempered by the promise of something she had thought lost forever. She nced at Zhong Shan, torn between her loyalty to her friends and the hope of seeing her mentor again.


    "Hao Meili, the choice is yours," Zhong Shan said softly. "You know we will support whatever decision you make."


    The tension among the Great Celestials and the neers remained high. Zhong Shan''s unwavering stance, coupled with Haotian''s calm demeanor, had created a standoff with no clear resolution in sight.


    The gathered forces watched closely, knowing that the decision made here could alter the bnce of power significantly. As Hao Meili stood at the crossroads of her fate, the fate of the Great Yan Sacred Court hung in the bnce.


    "The old man? Where is he?" Hao Meili asked eagerly.


    "The Western Poison Emperor''s soul is mostly depleted, but fortunately, the gue Sect has secret methods. His true spirit has been collected. To revive him, his soul must be replenished. This is aplex task, not something that can be done quickly. You muste with us if you want me to revive him," the man in ck robes seemed to grasp Hao Meili''s lifeline.


    Hao Meili''s face changed, hesitating. She looked at Zhong Shan with a trace of reluctance.


    Seeing Hao Meili''s expression, Zhong Shan nodded, "Hao Meili, while I can''t decide for you, I can offer some advice."


    "Hmm?" Everyone turned to Zhong Shan.


    "Haotian is your ancestor, and it''s clear he won''t harm you. Your unique physique will undoubtedly attract many people''s attention. I don''t yet have the ability to protect you constantly, but Haotian can. I suggest you go with them for now," Zhong Shan advised.


    Zhong Shan''s suggestion surprised everyone.


    "You want me to go with them? But..." Hao Meili''s eyes showed a hint of reluctance.


    Looking at Hao Meili, Zhong Shan spoke solemnly, "The Great Thousand World is filled with powerful beings. Your physique will surely make many envious. I indeed cannot protect you yet. We are friends, and I won''t forget you. Today''s helplessness doesn''t mean it will always be so. When I be strong enough, I wille to find you and ask if you want to return to the Great Yan. If you do, I will bring you back."


    Biting her lip, Hao Meili nodded. Though stubborn and headstrong, she could see the situation clearly. Besides, she trusted Zhong Shan, just as she once trusted the Western Poison Emperor.


    "Okay, I''ll listen to you. Once this matter is settled, I''ll go with them. Remember your promise, don''t forget it!" Hao Meili reminded him.


    "Rest assured, my promise will never change," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Haotian gave Zhong Shan a meaningful look before turning to Hao Meili. He then looked at the small golden dragon on her shoulder, his brow furrowing slightly. Just as he was about to speak, Zhong Shan interrupted.


    "Hao Meili, take Xiao Jin with you as apanion. Protect Xiao Jin along the way!" Zhong Shan quickly said.


    Haotian and his leading ministers looked at Zhong Shan with approval. This young man knew how to judge the situation.


    Zhong Shan had discerned the peculiarities. From Haotian and his people''s expressions, it was clear that Xiao Jin''s dragon physique was extraordinary. If Xiao Jin stayed, Zhong Shan couldn''t protect her for long, and trouble would surely follow. With Hao Meili, Xiao Jin would be safe.


    "Okay," Hao Meili nodded.


    Then, she looked at Haotian.


    "Hey, Haotian," Hao Meili addressed him informally.


    "Call me the Jade Emperor," Haotian wasn''t too angry.


    "The Jade Emperor? What ame name...!" Hao Meili began to mock.


    "Hao Meili, call him the Jade Emperor from now on," Zhong Shan interjected.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Hao Meili nodded.


    "Fine, the Jade Emperor. Jade Emperor, I''ll go with you after this crisis is over," Hao Meili said.


    "Agreed," the Jade Emperor nodded.


    The nine subordinates behind him frowned slightly.


    At this moment, the twenty-one Great Celestials around them were speechless with anger, having witnessed a family reunion of sorts. This new faction seemed to be allies of Zhong Shan as well?


    The Jade Emperor? Most Great Celestials didn''t know the name, but some had heard of it. The Jade Emperor? Haotian? The Jade Emperor of the Haotian Bright Pce? That powerful Sacred King? A ruler who controlled four major continents? This was not a minor force; it was an incredibly formidable one.


    Zhong Shan was simply astonishing. Just having opened the heavens and appeared in the Great Thousand World, he had already allied with one dojo? And now the Buddha? The Buddha had be his son? One dojo wasn''t enough, now another Sacred Court? The Jade Emperor? Could Zhong Shan truly be entering the Great Thousand World for the first time?


    The Great Celestials were dumbfounded, realizing that dealing with Zhong Shan and his expanding web of alliances was going to be far more challenging than they had anticipated.

 Chapter 834 - 833: Forcing the Court

    <h4>Chapter 834: Chapter 833: Forcing the Court</h4>


    Zhong Shan looked up at the Great Celestials in the sky.


    "So, will you join the Great Yan Sacred Court, or will you retreat now?" Zhong Shan asked the twenty-one Great Celestials.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, the Great Celestials'' eyebrows twitched, their eyes filled with hesitation and regret. If they had acted decisively at the start, they wouldn''t be in this mess. Now, how could they proceed?


    The Great Yan Sacred Court clearly had the strength to contend with a Great Celestial. Additionally, there were the ten Great Buddhas, and what seemed like ten Great Celestials among the neers. On the surface, they were evenly matched with the twenty-one rogue Great Celestials.


    However, the rogue cultivators knew better. These major factions usually had well-equipped members, unlike their own shabby gear. The difference between having a Great Celestial artifact and not having one was stark. The old man in the Eight Trigrams robe had demonstrated that difference clearly��Dong Jianfeng, the most respected among them, had been subdued just by responding to the old man.


    Yet, the rogue cultivators were unwilling to retreat. They clearly awaited the arrival of other forces.


    As the stalemate continued, the old man in the Eight Trigrams robe suddenly frowned.


    "Eh?" The old man let out a curious sound.


    Then, he reached out his hand.


    "Whoosh!"


    A sh of light came from the Yin Yang Hall of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, and a circr drawing fell into the old man''s hand.


    "A fragment of the Taiji Diagram?" The old man''s eyes lit up.


    A fragment of the Taiji Diagram? Everyone''s eyes turned to the old man holding the Taiji Diagram.


    "A fragment of the Supreme Saint''s treasure?" Almost everyone raised an eyebrow. But it was, after all, just a fragment.


    The old man in the Eight Trigrams robe examined the Taiji Diagram with a mix of curiosity, nostalgia, and longing, his expressionplex.


    Zhong Shan watched the old man closely. The Taiji Diagram was useless to him now; the Mud Bodhisattva had once told him clearly that this treasure could no longermunicate between the Yin and Yang realms. As such, it was just an ordinary treasure to him.


    But the Taiji Diagram had been heavily sealed by Zhong Shan. Outsiders shouldn''t have been able to sense its presence, yet this old man in the Eight Trigrams robe had detected it. It seemed he had found it by intuition.


    Everyone turned to Zhong Shan.


    "Sacred King of Great Yan, how did you obtain this fragment of the Taiji Diagram?" the old man in the Eight Trigrams robe asked, puzzled.


    "And whom do I have the pleasure of addressing?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "You can call me ''Laojun,''" the old man responded promptly.


    As expected, it was the Supreme Old Lord.


    "The Lord of the Netherworld gifted it to me," Zhong Shan replied solemnly.


    "To think the legend of the Taiji Diagram in the Netherworld was true, even if it''s just a fragment," the Jade Emperor remarked with some surprise.


    Clearly, the Jade Emperor and the gue God had heard of the Taiji Diagram during their time in the small world, but they had never encountered it. This fragment had been left by the first Lord of the Netherworld and had been hidden there all this time.


    Laojun''s face shifted, a deep longing in his eyes.


    "Sacred King of Great Yan, this fragment of the Taiji Diagram may only be at the level of a Celestial artifact, but it is extremely important to me. Would you be willing to part with it? Of course, I won''t let you go empty-handed. I''ll give you this purple-gold gourd and ten Nine-Turn Golden Pills in exchange. What do you say?" Laojun asked, looking at Zhong Shan.


    Truth be told, Laojun didn''t need to speak so politely. He could have taken it by force, and who would dare stop him? But considering Zhong Shan''s connection with the Ninth Princess, Laojun couldn''t bring himself to act so ungraciously.


    Zhong Shan weighed the offer in his mind. The Taiji Diagram was indeed a powerful artifact, but if it was only a fragment and not useful in its current state, trading it for the gourd and the pills could be beneficial. After all, the gourd had already demonstrated its incredible power.


    "I understand the value of the Taiji Diagram fragment to you, Laojun. I am willing to make this exchange," Zhong Shan said, making his decision.


    Laojun''s face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you, Sacred King. This means a great deal to me."


    As Laojun handed over the purple-gold gourd and the ten Nine-Turn Golden Pills, the tension in the air seemed to dissipate slightly. The other Great Celestials, however, were still restless, not willing to let go of the opportunity so easily.


    The Jade Emperor and his ministers watched the exchange, noting Zhong Shan''s calm and strategic approach. It was clear that Zhong Shan was a leader who knew how to turn situations to his advantage, even in the face of overwhelming odds.


    As the scene unfolded, the rogue Great Celestials couldn''t help but feel a growing sense of frustration. Every move Zhong Shan made seemed to strengthen his position and weaken their chances of sess.


    The Great Yan Sacred Court, now bolstered by powerful allies and strategic exchanges, stood firm against the pressure from all sides. Zhong Shan''s foresight and diplomacy had once again proven to be invaluable assets in the treacherousndscape of the Great Thousand World.


    Zhong Shan looked at the Supreme Old Lord and then at the Taiji Diagram, his expression fluctuating.


    The surrounding Great Celestials, however, had their eyes fixed on the purple-gold gourd. A true name treasure of the highest tier, a Great Celestial artifact? How lucky could this Sacred King of Great Yan be? Trading a mere Celestial artifact for a Great Celestial artifact, and with ten Nine-Turn Golden Pills thrown in? Was this Supreme Old Lord out of his mind?


    "Not satisfied? I can add more!" the Supreme Old Lord offered.


    Hearing this, the Great Celestials almost fainted from shock. Today''s events were indeed bizarre.


    "No, it''s not that I''m not satisfied. When I was in the small world, I heard about another treasure of yours, the Jade Purity Bottle," Zhong Shan said.


    With a wave of his hand, the Supreme Old Lord produced a jade bottle. As for who mentioned it to Zhong Shan, that was irrelevant��someone must have known, at least Kong Xuan did.


    "This purple-gold gourd is a top-tier Great Celestial artifact, while the Jade Purity Bottle barely qualifies as a Great Celestial artifact. Its power doesn''tpare to the purple-gold gourd, as it only produces thirty-six types of water," the Supreme Old Lord exined.


    "Right, I heard it can produce a different nectar each day. I love good wine, so I want it," Zhong Shan stated.


    Good wine? Giving up a top-tier Great Celestial artifact for a weaker one just because it produced alcohol? People looked at Zhong Shan even more strangely. Was he really giving up the purple-gold gourd just for his love of wine?


    The Great Celestials'' expressions grew increasingly bizarre. This whole situation was getting weirder by the moment.


    "You only want the Jade Purity Bottle?" the Supreme Old Lord asked, puzzled.


    "It''s not that simple," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Everyone nodded; this seemed more reasonable.


    "You can have the Taiji Diagram, but I want the Jade Purity Bottle and a promise from you," Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh?" The Supreme Old Lord looked at Zhong Shan, eyebrows furrowed. A promise?


    "He just mentioned that he could revive the Western Poison Emperor. I want your promise to supervise the process, ensuring the Western Poison Emperor is fully restored with no control over his body or soul. I want him to be exactly as he was," Zhong Shan demanded.


    Zhong Shan was wary that the Jade Emperor and his entourage might manipte the revival to control the Western Poison Emperor and use him to influence Hao Meili.


    "Thank you, Zhong Shan!" Hao Meili said, moved.


    Even Hao Meili, despite her naivety, understood that Zhong Shan was doing this for her benefit.


    The Supreme Old Lord nced at the Jade Emperor and the gue God. Seeing them nod, the Supreme Old Lord smiled gratefully.


    "Very well, I agree," the Supreme Old Lord nodded.


    With that, he handed over the Jade Purity Bottle.


    The Great Celestials looked on with a mix of regret and helplessness. They couldn''t intervene in this transaction; it was not their ce. They could only curse Zhong Shan''s seemingly foolish decision internally.


    But was Zhong Shan foolish? Not in the slightest. The purple-gold gourd was too valuable for Zhong Shan to protect. Its extraordinary power would make it a target, and it would be taken from him before long.


    As for the nectar, Zhong Shan sought the thirty-six types of water from the Jade Purity Bottle. Each type was incredibly rare. In Zhong Shan''s hands, they would shine with even greater value.


    At the Taichu Sacred Court''s encampment, there was a long silence.


    "This Celestial Sacred King has unbelievable luck! In an instant, his dire situation turned around? Ten Great Buddhas? The Great Hong Sacred Court?" An official''s face twitched as he spoke.


    "It''s useless. This is just a stalemate. They won''t hold out for long. There are so many powerful factions that want to see them destroyed," Sima Zongheng shook his head.


    "Not necessarily," the Taichu Sacred King countered.


    "Eh?" Everyone looked at the Taichu Sacred King.


    "In a short time, he has already allied with two factions. There might be other familiar forces around here as well," the Taichu Sacred King mused.


    "How is that possible? A closed small world, managing to connect with two Great Thousand World factions is already impressive. How could there be more?" Sima Zongheng doubted.


    "Sacred King, the other two Sacred Courts and the three great dojos of our Fengzhong Territory have all entered," someone reported.


    "Let''s go. The other factions have entered as well. It''s time for us to go in," the Taichu Sacred Kingmanded.


    "Yes!" The ministers responded.


    With that, they stepped forward, following the Taichu Sacred King towards the Immortal World.


    Zhong Shan looked at the twenty-one Great Celestials above, frowning at their persistence.


    "Sacred King, heroes from all factions are gathering, and various forces are entering our Great Yan," Shui Jing reported solemnly.


    Heroes gathering? Everyone ising?


    The Jade Emperor nced at Shui Jing in mild surprise. How did he know?


    Before long, a fierce wind swept in from the east, and a group of ten men in white armor, exuding a murderous aura, appeared in the sky.


    "Fengzhong Territory''s Taiji Sacred Court?" a Great Celestial suddenly recognized them.


    "Shui Jing, raise the banner of our court," Zhong Shan ordered.


    He was tired of always announcing their name himself.


    Shui Jing acted quickly, and in no time, arge banner formed by a spell was raised, disying four characters:


    <strong>Great Yan Sacred Court!</strong>


    The ten men in white armor saw the raised banner, and one of them took out an imperial decree.


    "Sacred King of Great Yan, receive the decree!" the leading man shouted.


    Zhong Shan sneered, "Just say what you have to say!"


    "The Taiji Sacred King of Fengzhong Territory decrees that the Sacred King of Great Yan can be a worthy vassal. You are hereby summoned to submit and join the Taiji Sacred Court. If you agree, fulfill the duties of vassge. If you refuse, you will be considered an enemy of the Taiji Sacred Court and will be destroyed!" the leading man proimed loudly.


    Submit? They wanted the Great Yan Sacred Court to be a vassal? If not, they would destroy it?


    The ministers of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court were furious, ring at the group.


    "Whoosh!"


    Another fierce wind blew, and ten men in golden armor appeared from the southeast.


    "The Taiyi Sacred King of Fengzhong Territory decrees that the Sacred King of Great Yan can be a worthy vassal. You are hereby summoned to submit and join the Taiyi Sacred Court. If you agree, fulfill the duties of vassge. If you refuse, you will be considered an enemy of the Taiyi Sacred Court and will be destroyed!"


    Another ten?


    Two Sacred Courts from Fengzhong Territory wanted to make the Great Yan Sacred Court a vassal? They expected Zhong Shan to bow and submit? Refusal meant destruction?


    Before the surprise could settle, ten Great Buddhas arrived from the west.


    "The Burning Lamp Master of Fengzhong Territory decrees that the Sacred King of Great Yan can be a worthy creation. You are hereby summoned to submit and join the Burning Lamp Dojo. If you agree, fulfill the duties of master and subordinate. If you refuse, you will be considered an enemy of the Burning Lamp Dojo and will be destroyed!"


    As if on cue, ten men in Daoist robes approached from the northwest.


    "The Snake Empress Master of Fengzhong Territory decrees that the Sacred King of Great Yan can be a worthy creation. You are hereby summoned to submit and join the Snake Empress Dojo. If you agree, fulfill the duties of master and subordinate. If you refuse, you will be considered an enemy of the Snake Empress Dojo and will be destroyed!"


    Fengzhong Territory had now sent forces from four factions, totaling forty Great Celestial-level experts, all demanding submission or threatening destruction.


    And it wasn''t over yet. Another force was approaching from the south.

 Chapter 835: The Mythical Beast Chaos

    <h4>Chapter 835: The Mythical Beast Chaos</h4>


    A confrontation among 159 Great Celestials reached a stalemate, with the scene bing eerily silent!


    This had far exceeded everyone''s expectations. Various forces with differing interests had gathered, each with its own agenda, creating aplex situation where making any move seemed impossible.


    Zhong Shan surveyed the powerful beings around him.


    The twenty-one rogue Celestials were of little consequence. If the Great Yan Sacred Court copsed, they would surely kick him while he was down. If he repelled the enemies, they would scatter like the wind. They had no organization or discipline.


    The six major factions of the Fengzhong Territory, the first four to arrive, had a clear purpose: to destroy the Great Yan Sacred Court. Offering surrender was merely a pretense. These four factions, though distinct, shared amon goal and were united.


    The Taichu Sacred Court, being the closest to the Great Yan Sacred Court, had its Sacred King personally present. If Zhong Shan did not submit, they would undoubtedly aim to destroy the Great Yan Sacred Court as the first four factions did. However, the Taichu Sacred King seemed genuinely interested in recruiting Zhong Shan, given that he had previously sent Sima Ce into the small world to persuade him.


    The Purple Cloud Master was unpredictable. He hade alone and had not revealed his stance, which made him difficult to read. Zhong Shan, having just arrived in the Great Thousand World, was not yet clear on many aspects.


    These were the hostile forces.


    There were many allied factions��eight in total��but they were just asplex.


    These eight factions were not entirelymitted to the Great Yan Sacred Court. Many of them were only making a token appearance.


    The Tianyin Dojo, Ice Goddess Pce, Phoenix Territory, Central Dojo, the Jade Emperor''s Heavenly Court, Sacred Sky Sanctuary, and the Archaic Family!


    These seven factions clearly only wanted to take away the people they were interested in. Fending off enemies was merely for show. Today, they might help repel the enemies, but what about tomorrow?


    Once they left, and given the inevitable casualties on the opposing side, the Great Yan Sacred Court would face relentless attacks unless Zhong Shan decided to leave the Fengzhong Territory altogether.


    Thest ally was Wang Jian from Great Qin. Although this faction also nned to leave after this battle, they were entirely supportive of Zhong Shan during this period, even more so than the other seven factions.


    Given the current situation, could negotiations drive everyone away? No, that would make the Great Yan Sacred Court seem too weak. As soon as the eight allied factions left, the Great Yan Sacred Court would be finished.


    Zhong Shan looked at the stalemate. What should he do?


    Fight? Impossible! Not fight? Not an option!


    A dilemma.


    "Gu Shentong, the mess you''ve left me is trulyplicated!" Zhong Shan sighed inwardly.


    As Zhong Shan analyzed the various forces, the factions were also scrutinizing each other with furrowed brows.


    Initially, the factions had nned to arrive one by one to address their individual concerns. Now, it had turned into a chaotic gathering of everyone at once.


    Shuijing and the other ministers were sweating slightly. Shuijing could tell that these many powerful beings��159 Great Celestials��could destroy the Lingxiao Heavenly Court in an instant if they made a move.


    Great Celestials and those even stronger��were these within the Holy King''s expectations? Could the Holy King unravel thisplex situation?


    "Buzz!"


    At that moment, a deep, resonant sound echoed, powerful and overwhelming like a great bell, shaking everyone''s hearts.


    Simultaneously, the sky suddenly changed color. Day turned to night? No, it was a night filled with countless swirling stars, forming a massive rotating ring of multicolored starlight.


    Everyone turned towards the direction of the sound.


    "Buzz!"


    Another thunderous roar reverberated.


    It was a monstrous beast, an eerily gigantic creature, spanning a thousand miles in size. Its body was grotesquely round with no visible facial features, its head sporting only a massive crack, filled with flickering lightning. It stood on six legs, appearing incredibly hideous.


    The beast''s head split open, swallowing a nearby small town. People fled in terror, but many couldn''t escape the beast''s gaping maw, being devoured into its massive belly.


    "A mythical beast, ''Chaos''? The thirty-eighth ranked divine beast in the Great Thousand World?" Shuijing eximed, his eyebrows raised.


    The Chaos beast roared rampantly, wreaking havoc as it moved. With each step, the sky and earth changed, the heavens darkened, and colorful stars surrounded it, exuding terrifying power.


    "Shuijing, where did this Chaose from?" Zhong Shan immediately inquired.


    "There are no signs of Chaos arriving from any direction. It seems to have descended from the heavens, originating between the stars!" Shuijing quickly responded.


    At this moment, the arrival of Chaos seemed to capture the attention of all the powerful beings present. Almost everyone suddenly focused on Chaos. The eyes of the assembled Celestials glinted with excitement.


    "Your Majesty, Chaos is a vanguard divine beast forrge-scale wars. Possessing a Chaos beast is equivalent tomanding an army of a million immortals. I request permission to capture and subdue this Chaos!" the three-eyed man beside the Jade Emperor respectfully requested, his eyes shining with eagerness.


    A vanguard divine beast, Chaos?


    The Jade Emperor looked at the excited three-eyed man and shook his head.


    Around the scene, not only the Jade Emperor''s side but also the eyes of the representatives from various sacred courts and dojos were filled with excitement. Chaos? Why did a Chaos suddenly appear? Such a valuable creature!


    At that moment, if it weren''t for theplex rtionships among the factions, many would have swarmed forward immediately!


    "Senior, what level of strength does this Chaos possess?" Emperor Xuan asked a senior from the Sacred Sky Sanctuary.


    "It''s still in its juvenile stage, likely at the peak of the Great Celestial realm. Moreover, it possesses the power of Chaos Swallowing Heaven. Capturing it won''t be easy!" the elder from the Sacred Sky Sanctuary replied.


    "Ancestor, how did this Chaos beast arrive here?" Bei Qingsi asked her ancestor.


    "During the creation of a world, ''Hongmeng Chaos Qi'' leaks out, which is the favorite scent of Chaos beasts. Perhaps a Chaos was passing between the stars and was attracted here. This vast territory has just undergone creation, and everything here is stained with Hongmeng Chaos Qi, which is what the Chaos beast most desires to devour!" Bei Qingsi''s ancestor exined.


    The various factions that had been entangled in the debate of whether to protect or destroy the Great Yan Sacred Court now shifted their focus to the Chaos beast.


    The thirty-eighth ranked divine beast in the Great Thousand World? A peak Great Celestial-level beast?


    All factions were eager. The Chaos beast devoured another small town in the distance, roaring as it moved towards a city.


    To capture or not to capture? The factions were in a dilemma.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up.


    "Shuijing!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Present!"


    "Those who invade my Great Yan, harm my people, and disrupt my empire''s order, what should be their punishment?" Zhong Shan shouted sternly.


    Zhong Shan''s words, ostensibly directed at the Chaos Beast, seemed equally aimed at the gathered factions.


    "Kill!" Shuijing replied firmly.


    Everyone''s brows furrowed in reaction.


    "Alright. General Wang Jian, eliminate this fierce beast, kill without mercy!" Zhong Shanmanded, looking at Wang Jian.


    As a dynasty known for its strict military discipline, the Qin dynasty followed orders to the letter. With themand from Ying and now Zhong Shan''s directive, Wang Jian responded immediately.


    "Yes, sir!" Wang Jian bowed.


    The ten powerful figures from Qin soared out of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, their killing intent surging as they charged toward the Chaos Beast.


    "Don''t!"


    "Stop!"


    "Hold on!"


    ...voices from various factions cried out, but Wang Jian was deaf to them all. His loyaltyy with Ying alone, caring little for the opinions of others.


    As Wang Jian rushed out, twenty Celestials from Taiji Sacred Court and Taiyi Sacred Court swarmed to intercept him.


    The Chaos Beast, a premier vanguard in wars, was a rare find. Having suddenly appeared today, it couldn''t be allowed to die so easily.


    "Your Majesty, should we intervene? This is the Chaos Beast!" Sima Zongheng urged the Taichu Sacred King.


    The Taichu Sacred King gestured for silence, and the others fell quiet.


    At this moment, the twenty-one Celestials felt a sense of destion. Despite their status, they couldn''t even voice an opinion. It was a frustrating situation.


    Meanwhile, the other factions seemed to hesitate, wary of making a move.


    The Great Yan Sacred Court''s opening wasn''t as fragile as it appeared.


    Zhong Shan turned his gaze from the distant battlefield to Emperor Xuan.


    "Emperor Xuan, congrattions!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    Emperor Xuan frowned, his expressionplicated.


    "Heading to the Sacred Sky Sanctuary, I won''t and shouldn''t stop you. I fully support your decision. I only want to say one thing," Zhong Shan said, looking at Emperor Xuan.


    Everyone cast curious nces at Zhong Shan.


    "The Great Yan will always be your home. The Lingxiao Heavenly Court has another name: Tiang Ind. This fact will never change. Take care on your journey!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Emperor Xuan clenched his fist, deeply gazing at Zhong Shan and the Lingxiao Heavenly Court before nodding firmly.


    "Yes!"


    Emperor Xuan wasn''t one for unnecessary sentimentality. This acknowledgment was enough.


    Zhong Shan nodded, then looked at Zhong Tian.


    "Tian''er!"


    "Father!"


    "As father and son, we need not say much. Remember our shared vision and the conversation we had that day in the Hall of Longevity," Zhong Shan reminded.


    Zhong Tian recalled that day, their secret discussion about "defying fate."


    "With my life, I challenge the heavens!"


    This phrase was etched deeply in Zhong Tian''s heart. He solemnly nodded, then suddenly knelt, bowing three times to Zhong Shan.


    "Father, I will never forget!" Zhong Tian vowed.


    Zhong Shan gently helped Zhong Tian up, satisfied.


    Turning to his four consorts, Zhong Shan spoke next.


    "Dear," Bao''er clung to him.


    "Zhong Shan!" Gu Qianyou, Bei Qingsi, and Tian Ling''er looked at him with reluctance.


    "Don''t look so sad. This isn''t a big deal. You''re just visiting your family. As men, we need to build our careers. You''ll visit your families for a while, and when our work is sessful, I''lle to bring you back home. Because this is our real home!" Zhong Shan tried to lighten the mood.

 Chapter 836: Universal Sorrow

    <h4>Chapter 836: Universal Sorrow</h4>


    "Don''t make that face. It''s really nothing. You''re just going back to your parental home for a while. As men, we have to strive and build our careers again. You''re visiting your families, and when we achieve sess, we wille to bring you back. Because this is our true home!" Zhong Shan said as lightly as possible.


    "Hmm!" The women still couldn''t hide their reluctance.


    Actually, Zhong Shan had anticipated this scene before the world opened up. He had mentally prepared the women, but now that it was reality, it was still hard for them to ept.


    "You muste back!" Tian Ling''er said with reluctance.


    "Do you remember the Dali Heavenly Dynasty? I wille to bring you back with the same grand style asst time!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Hmm!" Tian Ling''er immediately smiled.


    "Give this to Nie Fancheng. It contains my words for him. Remember, hand it to him personally. Do not let anyone else handle it, only him!" Zhong Shan took out a jade slip and solemnly handed it to Tian Ling''er.


    "Hmm!" Tian Ling''er carefully took it, nodding earnestly.


    Looking at the four empresses, Zhong Shan solemnly continued, "Finally, remember onest thing. No matter what unfavorable news you hear about me, do not believe it unless you see me in person. Even if you see me in person, remember the secret code I gave you. Only if the code matches, will it be truly me. Remember this well!"


    The women nodded repeatedly.


    "Haomei Li, what I promised you earlier, I will definitely fulfill. Don''t worry!" Zhong Shan said to Haomei Li, who was looking on with envy.


    "Hmm!"


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    At that moment, a loud explosion roared, causing the grand Lingxiao Heavenly Court to shake slightly. In the distance, a massive sword light enveloped the area, with countless dust clouds covering it, making it impossible to see inside.


    "Whoosh!"


    From the smoke and dust emerged a team of figures, led by Wang Jian in red armor, with nine subordinates breaking through the mist. Wang Jian held a grayish orb in his hand.


    Wang Jian emerged, followed by the people from the Taiyi and Taiji Heavenly Courts, all looking disheveled. Their eyes showed astonishment, clearly having encountered something incredible while intercepting Wang Jian.


    Wang Jian and his mennded at Lingxiao Heavenly Court, unscathed except for some scratches on their armor from the battle. The people from the Taiyi and Taiji Heavenly Courts looked even more disheveled.


    Everyone stared in amazement at Wang Jian.


    Ten against twenty, and they managed to kill the Chaos Divine Beast in such a short time?


    "Great King of Dazhen, the Chaos Divine Beast has been in. This is the Chaos Pearl formed after its death!" Wang Jian handed the gray orb to Zhong Shan.


    Inside the gray orb, a faint red light flickered, drawing everyone''s gaze.


    Zhong Shan held the orb, examining it.


    "The Chaos Divine Beast, dying and transforming into a pearl, will absorb the world''s energy and breed a new divine beast? So it hasn''t truly died. As long as the Chaos Pearl exists, it isn''t truly dead?" Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "Zhong Shan, hand over the Chaos Pearl, and I will petition the Great King of Taiyi to not pursue Dazhen anymore!" the previous general immediately called out.


    "Hand over the Chaos Pearl, and I will petition the Great King of Taiji to not pursue Dazhen anymore!"


    "Hand over the Chaos Pearl, and I will petition the Lantern Master to not pursue Dazhen anymore!"


    ... Numerous immortals stared at Zhong Shan and the Chaos Pearl, clearly desiring it but unable to seize it openly.


    At this moment, a delicate bnce of tension filled the air. The Chaos Pearl was right there, within arm''s reach, yetpletely unattainable.


    Zhong Shan scanned the faces of those eagerly eyeing the Chaos Pearl, his expression turning stern.


    "Whoever offends Dazhen, even if far away, shall be exterminated without mercy!" Zhong Shan dered, his voice filled with a chilling murderous intent.


    The major forces felt a jolt in their hearts, as if the words were directed at them specifically, yet not quite.


    As he spoke, Zhong Shan clenched his right hand tightly, using all his strength to crush the Chaos Pearl, symbolizing his resolve. You can ignore Dazhen now, but from today onward, anyone who dares to harm Dazhen will face a fight to the death.


    The veins in Zhong Shan''s hand bulged as he applied pressure, yet the Chaos Pearl showed no signs of breaking.


    This scene was observed by all. The person from the Shitian Holy Land shook his head. The Central Master revealed a faint sneer.


    "Zhong Shan, save your effort. The Chaos Divine Beast may have perished, but the Chaos Pearl, akin to a great celestial artifact, is beyond your strength to break. Hand over the Chaos Pearl!" someone from the Taiyi Heavenly Court said in a deep voice.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan snorted coldly.


    Can''t break it?


    In his palm, unseen by others, a faint white light glowed, and a subtle mist enveloped Zhong Shan''s hand.


    "Crack!"


    A powerful force caused a crack to appear in the Chaos Pearl.


    "Snap!"


    The Chaos Pearl shattered into powder. A mere Second Heaven of the Celestial Stage had crushed it?


    The Chaos Divine Beast waspletely dead?


    Everyone was stunned.


    Allies of Zhong Shan furrowed their brows slightly. The three-eyed man behind the Jade Emperor looked regretful.


    Opposite them, members of the six major forces of Fengzhong Domain frowned. Zhong Shan''s earlier words echoed in their minds.


    Whoever offends Dazhen, even if far away, shall be exterminated without mercy!


    The independent cultivators looked at each other in disbelief. They finally realized how absurd it was to wade into these troubled waters, as many of them knew they couldn''t crush the Chaos Pearl with a single palm strike.


    Zhong Shan let the powder from his hand scatter into the wind, making it disappearpletely.


    Silence reigned once more. People''s thoughts shifted continuously, and the six major forces of Fengzhong Domain were uncertain about their next move.


    Zhong Shan nced at the crowd, then at the ministers and officials of Dazhen. He took a deep breath.


    "People of Dazhen!" Zhong Shan suddenly called out.


    His voice was not loud, but through the heavenly fortune, it reached the ears of everyone in Dazhen.


    Across thend of Dazhen, many people were still celebrating. Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s voice, everyone suddenly stopped what they were doing.


    They all listened attentively to the sacred decree of their king.


    "Today marks the opening of the heavens, a day of universal celebration. I have led you all out of the Small Thousand World, out of the dream, and into the reality of the world. This is a day worth celebrating, but at this happiest moment, I have made a decision!"


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan, unsure of what he was up to.


    "I have decided that from today onward, Dazhen will be a vassal of the Taichu Holy Court! We shall be known as the ''Taichu Holy Court Vassal State of Dazhen''." Zhong Shan announced loudly.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The entire world was in an uproar!


    "What''s going on? The Holy King wants to be a vassal to Taichu?"


    "Why does Dazhen have to be a vassal to Taichu?"


    "Our Holy King is so ambitious and capable, why would he submit to Taichu Holy Court?"


    "Why?"


    ... The world was in turmoil, and the citizens of Dazhen couldn''t believe it. Just a moment ago, they were celebrating the establishment of the first dynasty since the heavens and earth opened, and now, they were suddenly to be someone else''s vassal? They too were a Holy Court; why should they be a vassal to another Holy Court? Why should they submit?


    The people didn''t believe it, they couldn''t believe it! Just moments ago, they were celebrating universally, and now, they were plunged into sorrow. Everyone refused to ept this absurd reality.


    But this voice couldn''t deceive them; a promation could be faked, but this was the voice of their Holy King, a voice the people of Dazhen had long recognized. Why was this happening?


    Profound sadness spread throughout Dazhen. People dropped their celebratory wine cups and walked out of the taverns, heading to the various city lord''s mansions to seek confirmation.


    Why would the great Dazhen, the first and greatest dynasty, be a vassal? Why?


    The world was filled with immense sorrow!


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, officials were shedding tears. At this moment, many showed expressions of grief; the world was in sorrow!


    Meanwhile, the assembled immortals looked at Zhong Shan in surprise. This Zhong Shan changed his stance so quickly? Just now he was incredibly strong and invincible, why did he suddenly concede?


    Zhong Shan took a few steps forward, directly facing the Taichu Holy King in the south.


    "Dazhen Holy Court, Zhong Shan, pays respects to the Taichu Holy King!" Zhong Shan bowed halfway.


    If they were of equal status, he would have said ''greeted,'' but now he said ''paid respects,'' clearly willing to adopt the manner of a vassal.


    Other forces widened their eyes, staring at Zhong Shan.


    The immortals behind the Taichu Holy King showed satisfied smiles, with Sima Zongheng looking particrly smug.


    The Taichu Holy King''s entourage slowly descended from the sky.


    "Dazhen Holy Court wishes to be a vassal to the Taichu Holy Court. I humbly request the Taichu Holy King''s approval!" Zhong Shan said again.


    Many officials couldn''t bear to continue watching!


    "Granted!" The Taichu Holy King replied solemnly.


    "Whoosh~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    It was as if a great wind swept through, and in an instant, much of the fortune of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court vanished, almost half, disappearing in an instant.


    It flowed into the Taichu Holy Court!


    "The Taichu Holy King once said that if Dazhen became a vassal, he would ensure Dazhen''s safety?" Zhong Shan asked seriously, looking at the Taichu Holy King.


    The Taichu Holy King, through his silver mask, gazed deeply at Zhong Shan.


    Then he turned to look at the other forces.


    "Taiyi Holy Court, Taiji Holy Court, Snake Empress Dojo, and Burning Lamp Dojo, you may withdraw now. Report to your Holy Kings or Masters that Dazhen is now a vassal of Taichu. Any attack on Dazhen will be considered an act of provocation against Taichu Holy Court!" The Taichu Holy King announced to everyone.


    The leaders of the four forces exchanged nces, their expressions shifting. It was clear that destroying the Taichu Holy Court today was no longer possible.


    The Snake Empress Dojo people took a deep look at Zhong Shan and were the first to speak: "Farewell!"


    "Farewell!" The other three forces followed suit, retreating one after another.


    Clearly, if the Taichu Holy Court had not intervened, this would have been a standoff between Fengzhong Domain and external forces. But with the Taichu Holy Court''s involvement, the nature of the situation changedpletely. The four major forces all retreated.


    The twenty-one independent cultivators exchanged nces, feeling as if they had been yed like monkeys. Feeling a sense of destion, they disappeared quickly.


    The Taichu Holy King looked at the Master of Zixiao.


    "Master of Zixiao, do you have any further business?" the Taichu Holy King asked.


    Of the six major forces in Fengzhong Domain, only two leaders hade: the Taichu Holy King and the Master of Zixiao. The Taichu Holy King was now forcing the Master of Zixiao to take a stance.


    "I have no further business. Congrattions to you!" the Master of Zixiao said with a smile.


    "Thank you!" the Taichu Holy King nodded.


    "Then I will take my leave as well!" With a faint smile, the Master of Zixiao took a deep look at Zhong Shan and vanished.


    In an instant, the hostile forces had all left, and Zhong Shan had taken the path of bing a vassal.


    Zhong Shan looked at his allied forces, bowed slightly, and said, "Thank you, everyone."


    Zhong Shan knew that without these allied forces, this vassge could not have gone so smoothly.


    "In that case, we shall take our leave!" The Central Master said coldly with a sneer.


    With a wave of his sleeve, the Central Master took Gan Baobao away, followed by his subordinates.


    On the way, the Central Master looked at Gan Baobao with a slight frown.


    "Your man is now so humiliated. Aren''t you the least bit saddened?" the Central Master asked in a deep voice.


    "A great man can bend and stretch. Why should I be saddened?"


    "Bend and stretch? He is a Holy Court Lord, a Holy King, yet he now bows as a vassal to another of equal status. Does it not affect you at all?" the Central Master asked with a frown.


    "Vassal? Now Dazhen is a vassal to Taichu. It won''t be long before Taichu bes a vassal to Dazhen!" Gan Baobao said confidently.


    "Hahaha, what a joke! Do you think a Holy Court Lord is that simple? It won''t be long before Taichu is a vassal to Dazhen? You must be dreaming!" The Central Masterughed coldly.


    "Believe what you want!" Gan Baobao retorted coldly.


    The Central Master didn''t get angry. Instead, he looked at Gan Baobao with growing admiration.


    "What do you want?" Gan Baobao asked with a frown.


    "I am you, and you are me. I won''t do anything to you. You are the only one among all my incarnations who is different from me. You are special!" The Central Master''s face showed affection.


    "Hmph!"


    After the Central Master left, the other forces also left with their respective goals. Clearly, with the strong enemies gone, they didn''t want to stay any longer. If not for ensuring their people left willingly, they would have left long ago. Who wanted to get involved in such a mess?


    Emperor Xuan Sha followed a group from the Shitian Holy Land, flying away from the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "From now on, call me Elder," said one of them.


    "Hmm!" Emperor Xuan Sha nodded.


    "Aren''t you worried about Zhong Shan?" the Elder asked.


    "No need!"


    "Oh? Why not?"


    "Zhong Shan is an extremely outstanding person. I saw that long ago in the Small Thousand World. Surrender? He won''t yield to anyone. It''s just that with the opening of the heavens, the mess left by the ancient powers has forced Zhong Shan to a breaking point. He just needs some peace. Once he catches his breath, he can turn the entire world upside down!" Emperor Xuan Sha said confidently.


    Gan Baobao left, Gu Qianyou left, Bei Qingsi left, Tian Ling''er left, Zhong Tian left, Hao Meili left, and Emperor Xuan Sha left!


    Zhong Shan watched this scene with some mncholy. In an instant, because of his decision, everyone had left.


    Of course, Zhong Shan also knew this was the best temporary oue. At least by leaving, they wouldn''t be harmed, whereas staying would be extremely dangerous because the path Zhong Shan was about to take was truly perilous.


    For now, only Wang Jian and his group remained.


    After sending off most of the people, Zhong Shan looked again at the Taichu Holy King, the masked Holy King whose face couldn''t be seen.

 Chapter 837: Zhong Shan Forces Taichu

    <h4>Chapter 837: Zhong Shan Forces Taichu</h4>


    After sending most of the people away, Zhong Shan once again looked at the Taichu Holy King, the masked monarch whose face was never revealed. ording to the information Zhong Shan had gathered, this Holy King had never exposed his appearance. The Taichu Holy Court, with its national beast being the fox n, divided the Fengzhong Domain alongside the Taiji and Taiyi Holy Courts.


    The Taichu Holy King looked at Zhong Shan and said, "Alright, all the major forces have left. What else do you have to say? When will you follow me back to the Taichu Holy Court as a hostage?"


    Zhong Shan solemnly looked at the Taichu Holy King and said, "There is still an enemy force on the outskirts, a foe of the Dazhen Holy Court. I hope the Taichu Holy King will drive away this enemy for me, and I will immediately apany you to the Taichu Holy Court!"


    "An enemy?" Sima Zongheng frowned, seemingly realizing something but unable to articte it.


    "A vassal state that drives away the five major forces of the Fengzhong Domain, sends its closest rtives out of this dangerous situation, dismisses the numerous ''allied'' forces with ulterior motives, and still preserves the Dazhen Holy Court. You have achieved four things with one action; quite impressive!" The Taichu Holy King did not answer Zhong Shan directly.


    "Since we are now a vassal of the Taichu Holy Court, I need not be cautious. The so-called ''allied'' eight major forces just now were not all on my side. For example, the Central Master would rather see me dead, and the experts from the Shitian Holy Land do not wish for my survival. If a real conflict had arisen, Dazhen would have been obliterated! I had no other choice!" Zhong Shan did not deny it.


    At this moment, many ministers of Dazhen finally realized the gravity of the situation, breaking out in a cold sweat.


    Previously, seeing the Holy King bow had made them feel indignant, thinking that the eight allied forces had more strong members than the enemies.


    Now, seeing it clearly, they realized they had been struggling on the edge of death, not knowing who was friend or foe. They had just barely escaped.


    Many ministers swallowed nervously.


    "Quite a ''no other choice.'' So you have been toying with all the immortals? Including us?" Sima Zongheng said coldly.


    "May I ask your name?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Sima Zongheng!" Sima Zongheng responded directly.


    Sima Zongheng? Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with understanding. He quickly realized why Sima Zongheng was speaking so harshly��it was because of Sima Ce, who had died in the Small Thousand World. They must have been rted, hence his animosity towards those from the Small Thousand World.


    "You exaggerate. Dazhen merely found a sliver of survival in a crack. Besides, the Taichu Holy King''s offer of surrender was epted by Dazhen. There is no conspiracy involved!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Indeed, one offered surrender, and the other epted. There was no deception involved; both the Taichu Holy Court and Zhong Shan benefited, though Zhong Shan gained more.


    Sima Zongheng still felt ufortable, wanting to see Dazhen destroyed, yet Zhong Shan had managed to persevere.


    "You mentioned another enemy? Why didn''t you have the eight allied forces help you eliminate this enemy earlier?" another Taichu official asked.


    "As I said before, they were not united with me. They could help, but what might happen during their ''help'' is not something I desired. Moreover, seeing so many strong people, the enemy might not even show up!" Zhong Shan exined.


    "Oh? You just came from the Small Thousand World. What kind of enemy could you have?" Sima Zongheng sneered.


    As soon as he finished speaking, Sima Zongheng realized his mistake. What did it matter if they came from the Small Thousand World? This group of abnormal individuals couldn''t be measured by the standards of the Small Thousand World. They had just arrived and already had so many connections. Even in the grand world, his powerful family wasn''t as exaggerated as this.


    "A very strong enemy. That''s why the generals of Daqin stayed behind to join you in confronting my enemy!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    The ministers of the Taichu Holy Court fell into silence. Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, they couldn''t help but feel a sense of oppression. It was as if a shroud of being manipted by Zhong Shan enveloped them.


    The cooperation between Daqin''s ten generals and the Taichu Holy Court? Why was cooperation necessary? Who were these people that warranted such a need? Just how strong were the individuals Zhong Shan had brought?


    "In the Fengzhong Domain, besides the other two dynasties and the three dojos, is there anyone else that the Taichu Holy Court cannot handle?" asked one of the Taichu officials.


    "It''s not a force from the Fengzhong Domain," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Oh?"


    "They''ve arrived?" Sima Zongheng smirked, looking at a distant figure flying closer.


    Everyone followed Sima Zongheng''s gaze. A man with a sword as tall as himself was shooting towards them from afar.


    "It''s not him," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    The man did not head towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court butnded on a distant peak. Soon, another figure leapt out from the valley.


    Zhong Shan squinted his eyes as he saw the person emerging from the valley. Zhao Tiansha? He wasn''t dead yet?


    In the distance, Zhao Tiansha seemed to be conversing with the sword-bearing man. After a while, Zhao Tiansha pointed at Zhong Shan with a face full of resentment, seemingly urging the man to cause trouble for Zhong Shan.


    However, the sword-bearing man reprimanded Zhao Tiansha.


    Afterwards, the man took the unwilling Zhao Tiansha and flew away from Dazhen, disappearing quickly.


    "Human Dao Sect?" Sima Zongheng frowned as he looked into the distance.


    The Taichu Holy King nced briefly before turning his gaze back to Zhong Shan.


    "Who is your enemy?" the Taichu Holy King asked.


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan. Sixteen Taichu officials were all staring at him. A joke��was there anyone in the Fengzhong Domain that a Holy King couldn''t deal with?


    "The Kong family," Zhong Shan replied.


    "The Kong family? Which Kong family?" an official asked, not yet understanding.


    A few Taichu officials twitched at the mention of the Kong family. The Kong family?


    "Which Kong family?" Sima Zongheng''s forehead started to sweat.


    "The family of the Sage of Confucius, Kong Qiu, the Kong family," Zhong Shan rified.


    The Sage of Confucius? Kong Qiu''s family? The Kong family?


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, the first reaction of the Taichu officials was that Zhong Shan had tricked them.


    The Kong family? You offended a Sage? The family of a Sage?


    Fighting the Kong family? Are you mad? Even without Confucius, the Kong family is a formidable force in the Great Thousand World. Now, with the Sage of Confucius, how could one even think of confronting the Kong family?


    The seventy-two disciples of Confucius, each one above the rank of a Great Immortal, and numerous descendants of the Kong family. How could a barbarian from the Small Thousand World provoke the Kong family?


    "Are you joking? The Kong family?" Sima Zongheng''s facial muscles twitched.


    "I am not joking! I believe the descendants of the Kong family are outside, waiting for some time now," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    The Taichu Holy Court officials looked at each other, realizing even a fool would know they had been tricked by Zhong Shan.


    "How severely did you offend the Kong family?" the Taichu Holy King asked.


    "A descendant of the Kong family established a dynasty in the Small Thousand World and was killed by me. However, I did not destroy his soul," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Descendant of the Kong family?"


    "Yes, it seems to be a direct descendant of Confucius," Zhong Shan replied thoughtfully.


    Silence ensued among the officials of the Taichu Holy Court. They feltpletely trapped by Zhong Shan.


    If they had known earlier, they might have destroyed Dazhen outright. Now, after offending the major forces of the Fengzhong Domain, did they really need to provoke the Kong family as well?


    The Kong family! The family of Confucius! And not just disciples, but a direct descendant? How had Zhong Shan not been struck by lightning for such a transgression? What a disaster!


    They had just shielded him from so many threats after the opening of the heavens, and now another formidable challenge loomed��one of unprecedented magnitude.


    "Holy King, it seems we cannot involve ourselves in this matter!" one official said.


    "Indeed, Holy King, we''ve already offended the five major forces of the Fengzhong Domain. It''s truly not the time to make enemies with the Kong family now."


    "Holy King, I believe Dazhen is a disaster! Not only does it bring misfortune upon itself, but it also drags our Taichu Holy Court into the fray!"


    "Yes, Holy King, epting Dazhen as a vassal is not advisable. We cannot allow them to be a vassal!"


    "If we ept Dazhen as a vassal, we will make enemies on all sides!"


    Several Taichu officials urged the Holy King to reconsider his earlier decision. There were also officials who remained neutral.


    The scene became extremely awkward. Just moments ago, they had enjoyed the feeling of being superior, of having Dazhen as a vassal. Now, it seemed too hot to handle, something they wanted to cast off immediately.


    The Kong family was a towering presence, one of the highest echelons of power in the world. To be their enemy was to challenge the pinnacle of the world. Was the Taichu Holy Court ready to challenge the pinnacle of the world?


    The Taichu Holy King stared intently at Zhong Shan, as if trying to decipher something from his face.


    "You said that as long as Dazhen became a vassal, you would ensure its safety. My enemy is right before us. Can you uphold your previous promise?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    Could he?


    If he could, he would face the enmity of the Kong family��a great misfortune.


    If he couldn''t, it would make the Taichu Holy Court aughingstock in the Fengzhong Domain��another great misfortune.


    Zhong Shan presented yet another difficult dilemma.


    "Ensuring the safety of Dazhen? You knew Dazhen was doomed from the start and deliberately dragged the Taichu Holy Court into this mess?" one official sneered.


    Zhong Shan ignored him, focusing instead on the Taichu Holy King. Because no matter what these officials said, it couldn''tpare to a single word from the Taichu Holy King.


    The Taichu Holy King, seeing through Zhong Shan''s intentions, stared deeply at him and then looked at Wang Jian and the other generals.


    "Are the people of Daqin willing to fight against the Kong family?" the Taichu Holy King asked solemnly.


    "General Wang Jian, does Daqin fear the Kong family?" Zhong Shan turned to Wang Jian.


    Wang Jian looked at Zhong Shan and replied solemnly, "Daqin and the Kong family are as ipatible as water and fire. Daqin fears nothing!"


    Daqin fears nothing! This statement revealed the antagonistic rtionship between Daqin and the Kong family.


    "So, you already had enmity with the Kong family and now want to drag our Taichu Holy Court into it? Such intentions are punishable!" one Taichu official used.


    "Holy King, this is a feud between Daqin, Dazhen, and the Kong family. Our Taichu Holy Court has no need to get involved!" Sima Zongheng nodded.


    "Yes, Holy King, let them fend for themselves!"


    "No, plotting against our court is a crime punishable by death. Destroy their court and kill their Holy King!" another official said harshly.


    Zhong Shan paid no attention to the Taichu officials, keeping his eyes on the Taichu Holy King.


    "Taichu Holy King, have you made up your mind? If you ept Dazhen as a vassal, I, Zhong Shan, will honor my word. After this battle, I will follow you to the Taichu Holy Court as a hostage. If you do not ept, I will still be grateful to you," Zhong Shan said earnestly.

 Chapter 838: Yan Hui

    <h4>Chapter 838: Yan Hui</h4>


    "Taichu Holy King, have you decided? If you ept Dazhen as a vassal, I, Zhong Shan, will keep my word. After this battle, I will follow you to the Taichu Holy Court as a hostage. If you do not ept, I will still be grateful to you," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Zhong Shan was forcing the Taichu Holy King to make a statement. Despite being only at the Celestial level, Zhong Shan had not shown any weakness in front of the numerous Great Immortals. Instead, he remained strong, from killing the first Great Immortal to confronting twenty-two more, then facing over a hundred Great Immortals. He had even crushed the Chaos Pearl they all coveted, leaving them helpless. Zhong Shan had maintained a strong attitude throughout, even now.


    Everything seemed to be within Zhong Shan''s calctions. He had been calm andposed from start to finish. Regardless of whether the Taichu Holy King agreed or not, Zhong Shan had already considered the consequences.


    Though the events of this period seemed straightforward, few could imagine Zhong Shan''s brilliance. With one hundred and sixty-one Great Immortals at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, any one of them could have destroyed it. Yet, Zhong Shan had managed to deal with them calmly, maneuvering among them skillfully. Even with one hundred and sixty-one Great Immortals present, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court remained steadfast.


    The officials of Dazhen behind Zhong Shan all showed expressions of admiration.


    Now, it was up to the Taichu Holy King to make a statement.


    "I need a moment to think," the Taichu Holy King said calmly.


    "Please, take your time," Zhong Shan nodded, leading his ministers to step back.


    He left the area to the Taichu Holy King for careful consideration. After all, epting would mean facing the Kong family, while refusing would be an obvious sign of reluctance.


    "Holy King, you must not agree!"


    "Dazhen has no reason to exist!"


    The officials urged the Taichu Holy King, but he raised his hand slightly, and they stopped speaking.


    The Taichu Holy King looked at a man in a green robe, who appeared to be about fifty years old, with green hair at his temples and a very serene expression.


    This man had not expressed an opinion throughout, and he seemed to hold a significant position in the Taichu Holy Court.


    "Mr. Li, you haven''t spoken. What do you think?" the Taichu Holy King asked.


    Mr. Li seemed to have a pivotal role in the Taichu Holy Court. Upon the Holy King''s question, everyone else fell silent, looking at Mr. Li.


    "It depends on what the Holy King wants. If the Holy King wishes, then ept. If not, then do not," Mr. Li said calmly.


    "I am asking for your opinion," the Taichu Holy King said seriously.


    After a moment of silence, Mr. Li replied, "Regardless of whether we ept or not, the Taichu Holy Court can bear the consequences. If the Holy King must have my suggestion, I would say...!"


    While the Taichu Holy King and his ministers deliberated, Zhong Shan turned to Wang Jian.


    "General Wang Jian, I heard you mention earlier that Ying has also be a Holy King? The Great Qin Holy Court?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, over two hundred years ago, after we left, the Holy King established the Great Qin Holy Court. However, it is somewhat different from your situation," Wang Jian replied respectfully.


    "Oh? Different? Did you encounter fewer forces surrounding you?"


    "The attacking forces were fewer than here, but the Holy King repelled them all," Wang Jian said.


    "What was different then?"


    "While the ministers of Great Qin roamed the world, they discovered a unique territory. In that region, there were eight Small Thousand Worlds. The Holy King opened all eight Small Thousand Worlds at once, establishing dominance over that territory," Wang Jian exined.


    "Eight heavens opened simultaneously?" Zhong Shan was stunned. Ying was truly extraordinary, opening eight Small Thousand Worlds simultaneously?


    "The Holy King often praises you as well. Our Great Qin has an eight-thousand-year legacy, yet your Dazhen has achieved so much in less than a thousand years. This is unprecedented. The Holy King asked me to deliver a message to you," Wang Jian said.


    "Oh?"


    "The Holy King said, ''Zhong Shan, I know you can open the heavens and quell the difficulties from all sides. I will lend you ten generals for a hundred days, and in the future, we will hunt the world together!''"


    Hunt the world together in the future? Such grand ambition!


    "When you return to Great Qin in a hundred days, give Ying a message for me: ''What I wish for.''" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!"


    As everyone was conversing, Shui Jing suddenly raised an eyebrow.


    "Holy King, they have arrived!" Shui Jing said seriously.


    "Oh? How many people?"


    "Forty in total, plus a fierce beast," Shui Jing replied.


    "Hmm!" Zhong Shan nodded and looked in the direction Shui Jing indicated.


    The Kong family, forty Great Immortals, and a fierce beast capable of breaking into the Immortal World. The Kong family truly went all out, showing they took Zhong Shan seriously.


    Soon, a fierce wind blew through, darkening the sky. As the wind dissipated, it revealed a group of people high in the sky and a colossal beast measuring a thousand feet in size.


    Zhong Shan didn''t recognize any of the neers, so he focused on the beast.


    A fierce beast? A Taotie?


    Wasn''t Sima Ce''s pet beast a Taotie as well? But that one was still in its infancy, while this one was clearly fully grown. The Taotie ranked ny-ninth among the divine beasts of the Great Thousand World. This Taotie was far stronger than the one Zhong Shan had encountered before.


    The group stopped in the southern sky, coldly staring at Zhong Shan.


    The leader wore a wide ck schr''s robe, his hair tied up, with a square face exuding a powerful aura. His cold eyes seemed to want to pierce through Zhong Shan or tear him apart.


    The forty individuals stood in the air, their massive aura radiating outwards, pressing down with a terrifying pressure that seemed to make it hard for everyone in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court to lift their heads.


    "Yan Hui! It''s Yan Hui!" Wang Jian frowned.


    "One of Confucius'' seventy-two disciples?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, Yan Hui isn''t the strongest among the seventy-two, but he is the most beloved by Confucius. His individual strength is formidable!" Wang Jian said seriously.


    "Zhong Shan!" Yan Hui shouted upon arrival.


    "I am he. What brings you here uninvited?" Zhong Shan asked, feigning ignorance.


    "News from home says you, Zhong Shan, are cunning. Indeed, you killed my beloved disciple, Kong Lietian. What do you think I am here for?"


    "Kong Lietian was killed by me, but I did not destroy his soul. Whoever obtained the Primordial Banner is the true soul-killer of Kong Lietian!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "At this point, you still nder my grand-disciple?"


    "Grand-disciple? Sekong?"


    "Kong Sekong, the direct descendant of Kong Lietian in the Small Thousand World!"


    "Hahaha, Sekong is Kong Lietian''s son?" Zhong Shan suddenly burst intoughter.


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan strangely. What was he doing? Seeking death?


    After a bout ofughter, Zhong Shan stopped and a sharp light shed in his eyes.


    "Very well, even if Sekong is Kong Lietian''s son."


    Adding crimes to someone''s charge is easy. Zhong Shan knew today wouldn''t end peacefully, so he didn''t expose Sekong''s true identity. Having Sekong, an outsider, entangle the Kong family was better than anything else!


    "Taichu Holy King, have you made up your mind?" Zhong Shan suddenly turned to the Taichu Holy King.


    If it weren''t for the early discovery of the Taichu Holy King and Wang Jian''s group, Yan Hui and the other immortals would have already pped Zhong Shan to death.


    "Taichu Holy King, this is a matter between the Kong family and Zhong Shan. You''d best not interfere, or you know the consequences of offending the Kong family!" Yan Hui said coldly.


    "Offend the Kong family? Hahaha, the Kong family has already extended its reach into the Fengzhong Domain, and we still have to worry about offending the Kong family?" the Taichu Holy King said coldly.


    "What do you mean?" Yan Hui replied icily.


    "What do I mean? You should know very well. Forty Great Immortals and above are here; don''t tell me you just arrived. I believe you forty are here to support that so-called Kong Lietian in opening the heavens. Once he opens the heavens, you would establish a Holy Court here. The Kong family and the Fengzhong Domain are so far apart. You wouldn''t be here just to establish a Holy Court, would you?" the Taichu Holy King said coldly.


    Yan Hui red at the Taichu Holy King.


    Upon hearing the Taichu Holy King''s words, Zhong Shan understood his choice.


    With a faint smile, Zhong Shan said, "The Taichu Holy King is wise. Yan Hui just mentioned that the news of Kong Lietian''s death came from the Kong family, which means they have been here for a long time. They were already here before Kong Lietian died, waiting. The Kong family is so far away from here, yet they came to establish a Holy Court. There must be something they seek. The steps in their n are: first, to open the heavens; second, to unify the Fengzhong Domain!"


    Zhong Shan''s analysis was spot on. Unifying the Fengzhong Domain? Sending forty Great Immortals at once��were they here to y? They definitely had a mission.


    "As for not appearing earlier, it was to avoid being besieged by the six major forces of the Fengzhong Domain and the eight forces that were with me earlier. Now, they think the time is ripe and no longer fear us!" Zhong Shan said with a cold smile.


    Yan Hui looked coldly at Zhong Shan.


    "I''m starting to believe that my disciple was indeed killed by you!" Yan Hui said coldly.


    "Taichu Holy King, the safety of Dazhen is in your hands!" Zhong Shan said solemnly to the Taichu Holy King.


    The Taichu Holy King nodded and stepped between Zhong Shan and Yan Hui.


    "General Wang Jian, please coordinate with the Taichu Holy King to face the enemy!" Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Yes!"


    "Taichu Holy King, do you really want to be my enemy?" Yan Hui asked coldly.


    "Dazhen Holy Court is under the protection of the Taichu Holy Court. Either retreat now or defeat me!" the Taichu Holy King said firmly.


    The Taichu Holy Court had seventeen people, and Wang Jian had ten, making a total of twenty-seven. Yan Hui''s side had forty people.


    The numbers were vastly different, but numbers didn''t determine strength!


    A stalemate re-emerged.


    In a distant valley of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Yi Lanque and the Yi family watched the events unfold.


    "Impressive, very impressive!" Yi Lanque said, tapping his folding fan.


    "Indeed, and quite fortunate too!" the Yi family''s ancestor said.


    "Fortunate? What luck? Zhong Shan is incredible. The only true allies Zhong Shan has are Wang Jian and his ten men. The nearly two hundred other Great Immortals have their own agendas, with more than half wishing for Zhong Shan''s death. Yet, Zhong Shan has maneuvered among these forces, ying with their minds and turning danger into safety!" Yi Lanque said seriously.


    "ying with Great Immortals?"


    "Didn''t you notice? From beginning to end, when Zhong Shan needed help, he only asked Wang Jian and his ten men. Did he mobilize any other forces? He couldn''t even if he wanted to," Yi Lanque said with a deep breath.

 Chapter 839: The King of Zichen

    <h4>Chapter 839: The King of Zichen</h4>


    "Didn''t you notice? From beginning to end, whenever Zhong Shan needed help, he only called upon Wang Jian and his ten men. Did he mobilize any other forces? He couldn''t even if he wanted to," Yi Lanque said, taking a deep breath.


    The Yi family''s ancestor nodded, a look of amazement in his eyes. Indeed, from start to finish, Zhong Shan appeared to have good luck, but every step was treacherous, and Zhong Shan hadn''t made a single misstep.


    "Many people struggle for millennia in the Small Thousand World just for this position of the Heavenly Order. Zhong Shan seeded in establishing the Dazhen Holy Court. The position of ''Life'' is easy to lose but incredibly hard to attain. If given another chance, Zhong Shan wouldn''t be able to achieve it so smoothly. Now, he just needs to hold on to this ''Life'' position. After narrowly escaping death, it seems he is gradually stabilizing," Yi Lanque said.


    "Yes, our ancestors mentioned that after the heavens and earth opened, many dynasties in the Small Thousand World would copse the moment they became Holy Courts. Zhong Shan faced even more crises, yet he managed to stabilize. Just as you said, this man is truly extraordinary," the Yi family''s ancestor said, taking a deep breath.


    "Indeed!"


    "Can we allow someone like him to remain? Such a monstrous talent��might he be a threat in the future?" The Yi family''s ancestor frowned, a hint of murderous intent in his eyes.


    "The Great Thousand World is different from the Small Thousand World. There are many extraordinary people here. One more Zhong Shan won''t make a significant difference, and one less won''t matter much either. It''s better to have one more friend than one more enemy," Yi Lanque advised.


    "Agreed," the Yi family''s ancestor''s expression softened.


    "Just follow my lead when the timees," Yi Lanque said.


    "Understood."


    At the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the battle erupted fiercely. In an instant, Yan Hui and the Taichu Holy King were engaged inbat. The sky lit up with a massive ball of thirteen colors as the two supreme powerhouses disappeared from sight.


    As for the others, they naturally joined the fray. Wang Jian and the other generals drew their swords and charged, while the strong fighters from Taichu joined the battle.


    The battle of sixty-seven Great Immortals was a spectacr sight.


    Under the deliberate maneuvering of the Taichu Holy King and Wang Jian, the battlefield shifted southward. As they moved, the air trembled, and the people could no longer see the figures of the immortals, only the endless rainbow of lights and the terrifying explosions.


    Yan Hui seemed determined to avenge Kong Lietian, using overwhelming numbers to try and destroy the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Wang Jian and his men were formidable warriors, powerful and relentless.


    The battle of these Great Immortals was so terrifying that the clouds within a million miles were scattered, and the intense vibrations in the air caused the entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court to tremble slightly.


    Zhong Shan stood atop the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, watching the vast battlefield with a furrowed brow.


    Then, he turned his gaze from the battlefield to the officials of Dazhen in front of the Changsheng Hall.


    Looking at the numerous officials, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said, "All of you here are officials of the fifth rank or above, correct?"


    "Yes!" the ministers bowed.


    "My decision may have seemed sudden, but Dazhen still needs you to continue its operations. I am leaving Dazhen, but my heart remains here. I, Zhong Shan, will return!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "May the Holy King enjoy eternal blessings and longevity equal to the heavens!" the ministers bowed deeply.


    "I hope for longevity equal to the heavens for both myself and Dazhen. Therefore, I will now make arrangements for Dazhen''s future. Remember, today''s arrangements are the highest decree. No matter what happens, no one is allowed to vite it. Anyone who dares to go against it will be considered a traitor!" Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with determination.


    "Yes!"


    The ministers stood respectfully, their faces still filled with sorrow, but their demeanor was now extremely solemn.


    "Lin Xiao!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Here, Your Majesty!" Lin Xiao immediately stepped forward.


    "Lin Xiao, as themander of the First Legion of the Dazhen Holy Court, you have led the army with unparalleled skill. Today, I bestow upon you the Dazhen military token, granting youmand over all the troops of Dazhen in the mortal realm. Let your orders be as unyielding as the mountains!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    As he spoke, Zhong Shan took out a rainbow-colored military token and handed it to Lin Xiao with great ceremony.


    "At yourmand!" Lin Xiao bit his lip, tears welling up in his eyes, but he held them back.


    As Lin Xiao took the token, Zhong Shan held onto it for a moment, looking at Lin Xiao intently. "Lin Xiao, you have been with me the longest and are my most trusted general. As I hand you this token, I speak to you not just as your ruler but as an elder brother."


    Elder brother? Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, the deep brotherly bond within Lin Xiao surged. He longed to call out "big brother," but he restrained himself.


    "Hmm!"


    "No need for sentimental words. Remember, this token is entrusted to you alone. No matter what happens, no matter the circumstances, the token is only for you. You can only return it to me!" Zhong Shan emphasized.


    "Hmm!" Lin Xiao nodded.


    "In the Kunshan region of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, I never allowed any construction. It remains as it was eight hundred years ago. We were once soldiers of the Da Kun Kingdom there, fought enemies, and drank together. Visit it when you can while I am away," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!"


    After giving instructions to Lin Xiao, Zhong Shan turned to others.


    "Shui Jing!" Zhong Shan called.


    "Here, Your Majesty!" Shui Jing responded immediately.


    "Shui Jing, as themander of the Sixth Legion of the Dazhen Holy Court, you have governed with wisdom and stability. Today, I bestow upon you the seal of the Prime Minister of Dazhen, granting youmand over all civil officials in the mortal realm. Let your orders be as resolute as the mountains!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    As he spoke, Zhong Shan took out the Prime Minister''s seal and handed it to Shui Jing with great ceremony.


    "At yourmand!" Shui Jing epted it with solemn dignity.


    "Shui Jing, you are the most knowledgeable person in Dazhen. With you leading the civil officials, I am at ease!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!"


    "I trust you! During my absence, I leave you with three words to remember, especially in times of great change," Zhong Shan said.


    "I will remember them well. Please, Your Majesty, enlighten me," Shui Jing said.


    "The three words are: ''Why is this?''" Zhong Shan said with deep meaning.


    Why is this? Why? Just those three words? Shui Jing didn''t understand at first and looked at Zhong Shan.


    "I know you don''t understand now, but keep these words in mind. When the timees, you will understand their significance," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" Shui Jing nodded, still puzzled.


    Finally, Zhong Shan turned to Shui Wuhen.


    "Shui Wuhen!" Zhong Shan called.


    "Here, Your Majesty!"


    "Shui Wuhen, as themander of the Fifth Legion of the Dazhen Holy Court, I now confer upon you the title of ''King of Zichen,'' the first non-family noble of the Dazhen Holy Court. You will govern the mortal realm of Dazhen on my behalf during my absence, with authority as if I were present!" Zhong Shan said, taking out arge purple seal.


    "At yourmand!" Shui Wuhen knelt to ept the seal, understanding the weight of the responsibility bestowed upon him.


    Zichen King? Govern Dazhen in the mortal realm?


    Almost everyone''s expression changed. Many had spected about the distribution of power within Dazhen. Some thought the Holy King would establish a council of elders to rule, while others believed he might appoint a single person to lead. But no one expected it to be Shui Wuhen.


    Shui Wuhen was loyal, but Lin Xiao''s loyalty was no less, and perhaps even more. In terms of governance and political acumen, Shui Wuhen was strong, but not stronger than Shui Jing. In terms of militarymand, Shui Wuhen couldn''t match Lin Xiao, and even in governance, Lin Xiao was superior.


    Why then would the Holy King appoint Shui Wuhen as the first external noble and give himmand over all of Dazhen?


    Nearly all the officials were bewildered. Although Lin Xiao and Shui Jing didn''t oppose the decision, they too were puzzled. Shui Wuhen? Could it be that he had hidden depths?


    "Your Majesty, I am unworthy of such a heavy responsibility. Ick both virtue and talent to bear such a burden," Shui Wuhen immediately knelt and protested.


    "Precisely because it is a heavy responsibility that I choose you. Among the nine legionmanders of Dazhen, you were kept in the mortal realm because you are the most suitable. I do not make mistakes in judgment. Dazhen will thrive best under your leadership in my absence. Take the seal," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    The nine legionmanders? Only Shui Wuhen was fit for this role?


    The officials were perplexed. Wasn''t Xiao Wang, Yi Yan, Shui Jing, or Zhong Zheng suitable? How was Shui Wuhen the best choice? Considering that usurping power was impossible due to the heavenly fortune, why was Shui Wuhen chosen?


    "I ept the decree!" Shui Wuhen, epting the heavy responsibility, took the purple seal.


    Zichen King! Everyone was now pondering why Shui Wuhen was chosen by Zhong Shan. No one had expected Zhong Shan to appoint him as the ''King of Zichen.'' Zhong Shan''s intentions were far-reaching, and perhaps only when this title was truly needed would everyone understand the wisdom behind it.


    "Before I leave, I give you one more piece of advice. Keep it in your heart. When faced with insurmountable difficulties, you will find it useful," Zhong Shan said earnestly.


    "Please, Your Majesty, enlighten me," Shui Wuhen asked, puzzled.


    All the officials looked at Zhong Shan.


    "When you face an insurmountable challenge, ask yourself, ''What do I truly desire?''" Zhong Shan said with great gravity.


    What do I truly desire? What did that mean? No one understood. Was this supposed to be advice?


    Seeing Shui Wuhen''s confusion, Zhong Shan shook his head. "When the timees, you will understand."


    "Yes!"


    Just like his words to Shui Jing, Zhong Shan gave another riddle. A riddle that no one could decipher, but everyone knew it held great importance because the Holy King spoke with such solemnity.


    "Does anyone have any objections?" Zhong Shan asked the officials.


    "We ept the decree!" the officials bowed.


    Zhong Shan nodded, looking around solemnly before speaking again.


    "People of Dazhen, heed my order!" Zhong Shan''s voice echoed across Dazhen.


    Countless citizens, still mourning, rushed to the city lord''s mansions for answers. Suddenly hearing Zhong Shan''s voice, they stopped in their tracks.


    "I will enter the Taichu Holy Court as a hostage. The Dazhen Holy Court will be temporarily led by Zichen King Shui Wuhen, with full authority as if I were present!"


    The voice echoed throughout Dazhen.


    It became a fact. Almost all the citizens knew this was reality, their faces filled with sorrow.


    "May the Holy King enjoy eternal blessings and longevity equal to the heavens!" All the people bowed toward the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "The rise and fall of the world is everyone''s responsibility. Though I leave Dazhen temporarily, we must all strive together!"


    This was Zhong Shan''s final message.


    Strive together? Countless citizens clenched their fists, gritting their teeth as they knelt. This was a humiliation from the Taichu Holy Court, a tragic moment for Dazhen. The people, bearing this humiliation and sorrow, silently made grand resolutions in their hearts.

 Chapter 840: Journey to Qingqiu

    <h4>Chapter 840: Journey to Qingqiu</h4>


    "The rise and fall of the world is everyone''s responsibility!"


    This was Zhong Shan''sst message to the people. The citizens of Dazhen silently swore oaths in their hearts, feeling a surge of ambition that they had never experienced before. This newfound determination would help them face all future challenges with courage.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A sh of intense light erupted from the distant battlefield near the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, and a massive fierce beast burst out from the light.


    Clearly, the Great Immortals of the Kong family, having the advantage in numbers, had created a significant opening. The Taotie, a fearsome creature, was charging straight for the Lingxiao Heavenly Court!


    "Taotie, devour the Lingxiao Heavenly Court for me!" a thunderous voice echoed from the light.


    It was Yan Hui''s voice. Despite battling the Taichu Holy King, Yan Hui was still observing the surroundings.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a ferocious roar, the Taotie lunged forward, its mouth growingrger andrger as it approached the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Ten miles, a hundred miles, a thousand miles, ten thousand miles.


    The Taotie''s mouth had expanded to a terrifying size of ten thousand miles and was still growing. This monstrous divine beast appeared capable of swallowing the entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court in one gulp.


    Zhong Shan stepped forward, leading his ministers to face this colossal maw.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan snorted coldly.


    From beginning to end, Zhong Shan had not personally intervened, relying instead on using enemies against each other. But now, he couldn''t remain hidden any longer. If he did, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court would bepletely swallowed by this fully grown Taotie.


    In the distance, Yi Lanque also watched the terrifying maw of the Taotie, his eyes narrowing as he spoke in a deep voice, "Notify the ancestors! We can''t wait any longer. If we dy, we won''t gain any favor and might even incur Zhong Shan''s wrath!"


    The disciples of the Yi family immediately obeyed.


    The enormous mouth of the Taotie was nearing the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, its overwhelming size and terrifying presence making it seem capable of devouring even the heavens.


    On the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, everyone saw the massive maw covering the sky. The mouth opened wide, and arge portion of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court had already entered the Taotie''s mouth.


    The people caught within the Taotie''s mouth fled northward in terror, hoping to escape beyond the creature''s lips.


    But the Taotie''s massive size and rapid approach were too overwhelming.


    As the greenish-ck lips of the Taotie closed in on the Changsheng Hall, desperation gripped many.


    Suddenly, behind or above the Taotie''s lips, another set of pink lips appeared.


    Was this Taotie double-faced?


    No, those weren''t the Taotie''s lips. Was it the Holy King''s divine beast?


    Realizing this, everyone was stunned. They knew the divine beast was mysterious, but its mouth was even more exaggerated than the Taotie''s?


    In an instant, the Taotie''s lips stopped advancing and seemed to be pulled back by a powerful suction force, retreating at a speed hundreds of times faster than before.


    The formidable Taotie, with its monstrous maw, was rapidly pulled away from the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Everyone saw just one scene: the colossal Taotie being sucked into an evenrger mouth.


    Indeed, it was the Holy King''s divine beast. It had reappeared.


    "Ah-woo!"


    With a snap of its jaws, Baji Tianwei (Eight Extremities Heaven Tail) closed its mouth and vanished from sight.


    The Taotie was swallowed?


    Everyone was left in shock, realizing that the Holy King''s divine beast had once again saved the day by devouring the ferocious Taotie.


    Countless people stood in shock, staring nkly at the cloudless sky.


    On the southern battlefield, everything suddenly paused. The Great Immortals stopped fighting and turned to look in the direction of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. One of the Kong family''s Great Immortals even wiped his eyes, staring at the spot where the Taotie had been.


    Gone? Where was the Taotie?


    The battle between the Taichu Holy King and Yan Hui also came to an abrupt halt.


    The two supreme powerhouses quickly used their secret methods to scan the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, searching for the eight-tailed beast.


    Yan Hui looked as if he had swallowed a fly, his eyes wide with disbelief. Even now, Yan Hui couldn''t believe what he had seen.


    An adult Taotie, with its indestructible skin and ability to swallow the heavens and earth, had been swallowed itself? Was this a joke?


    But it was real��the Taotie had indeed been swallowed. And by an unknown beast, no less.


    What had just happened? Where was the beast?


    Realizing the situation, Yan Hui roared, "Zhong Shan, where is my Taotie?"


    "I don''t know, maybe it got eaten," Zhong Shan said with a faint smile.


    "Hand over that beast, or I''ll kill you!" Yan Hui roared, his body poised to charge at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    But he was stopped by the Taichu Holy King.


    "Or kill me? Weren''t you nning to kill me earlier? Was that just a joke?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Humph!"


    Yan Hui pulled out a bamboo scroll.


    The Spring and Autumn Annals! Zhong Shan recognized it. Kong Lietian had one as well��an artifact created by Confucius, passed down to his descendants. This particr Spring and Autumn Annals was vastly more powerful than Kong Lietian''s.


    As soon as it was taken out, lines of text appeared in the sky, as if the very void was influenced by the presence of the Spring and Autumn Annals.


    "Is this how Confucius taught his disciples?"


    Suddenly, a powerful voice echoed from the north, filled with a grand and majestic aura.


    Everyone turned to see thirty Great Immortals appear in a rush of wind on the northern side of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Leading them was a man in blue robes, with slightly graying hair, who exuded an ethereal and transcendent aura.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    From the northern valley, a tremendous creature with a wingspan of three thousand miles emerged��it was the Kunpeng! The same Kunpeng that had fought the Eight Extremities Heaven Tail before!


    With a p of its wings, the Kunpeng lifted arge group of people into the sky.


    The Yi family, led by Yi Lanque, appeared.


    "Yi Lanque greets the ancestors!" Yi Lanque called out.


    The leader nodded.


    "Yi Siqi, what did you just say?" Yan Hui asked coldly.


    "I said, this doesn''t seem to be your Kong family''s territory. When did Confucius extend his influence here?" Yi Siqi replied with a faint smile.


    "And it''s not the territory of Zhuangzi either. Does Zhuangzi want to challenge my Kong family?" Yan Hui sneered.


    "Why not?" Yi Siqi replied coldly.


    "You��"


    "My master once promised that sage to look after this region when able. This is not your ce to be!"


    "But that sage is dead!"


    "So what? Get back to where you came from!" Yi Siqi said coldly.


    "Hmph, then today let me see how strong you really are, Yi Siqi, to make me leave!" Yan Hui was furious.


    Out of nowhere, another troublemaker had appeared. Why was it so hard to kill Zhong Shan?


    "Very well, a few of my senior brothers will be passing through here soon. Let me show you what true brotherhood looks like!" Yi Siqi said with a wicked smile.


    Brotherhood?


    Yan Hui was speechless. Did Yi Siqi mean that he and his brothers would gang up on him? Yan Hui red at Yi Siqi, puzzled by his sudden aggression.


    Looking deeply at Zhong Shan, Yan Hui suddenly realized Yi Siqi was protecting Zhong Shan.


    Why was heaven favoring this small Holy Court so much? So many Great Immortals couldn''t destroy it? And now, Zhuangzi''s disciples were helping him too?


    "Hmph!" Yan Hui snorted in frustration, knowing there was no point in arguing. He decided to leave.


    "Let''s go!" Yan Huimanded.


    With nothing more to say to Yi Siqi, Yan Hui turned around and left, seething with anger.


    Zhong Shan looked at Yi Siqi and then at Yi Lanque.


    Yi Siqi didn''t look back at Zhong Shan, but Yi Lanque nodded and smiled at him, clearly indicating that this help came from Yi Lanque.


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan said solemnly to Yi Lanque.


    "Fate will bring us together again," Yi Lanque replied.


    After saying this, he bowed respectfully to Yi Siqi. Then, their group quickly disappeared from sight.


    "Thank you, ancestor!" Yi Lanque said to Yi Siqi.


    Yi Siqi smiled and looked at Yi Lanque. "Not bad. Watching all this wasn''t a waste of time!"


    "Oh?"


    "This Zhong Shan is extraordinary. Despite his weak cultivation, never before has a newly established Holy Court managed to go through such turmoil without losing a single soldier or general. He turned danger into opportunity with over two hundred Great Immortals. You''ve made a valuable friend!" Yi Siqi nodded approvingly.


    "He''s not my friend yet."


    "He will be," Yi Siqi said with a smile.


    The events had happened so quickly that many were still processing what had urred.


    The officials of Taichu were dumbfounded, watching the scene unfold with great astonishment.


    Another external force? Another thirty Great Immortals?


    It was a rare urrence to encounter even one Great Immortal, and now there had been a total of two hundred and thirty-one in one day? Had Great Immortals bemon, or were they seeing things? And there were two divine beasts from the rankings. No, there was one more��the mysterious eight-tailed beast. What was that?


    The Taichu Holy King also stared at Zhong Shan. For some reason, Zhong Shan''s cultivation had suddenly risen to the Third Heaven of the Celestial Stage!


    Previously, he had been at the peak of the Second Heaven of the Celestial Stage, but the breakthrough seemed too quick. There was something suspicious about Zhong Shan. Throughout the confrontations, while otherspared strength and power, Zhong Shan had remained unscathed and even increased his cultivation. The Taichu Holy King was not pleased.


    "Zhong Shan, are you ready?" the Taichu Holy King asked sternly.


    "Ready to go anytime!"


    "Then let''s go! Follow me to ''Qingqiu Sacred Capital.''"


    "General Wang Jian, I leave the Lingxiao Heavenly Court in your hands. Eliminate any remaining Great Immortals," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!"


    The Taichu Holy King waved his sleeve, taking Zhong Shan up into the clouds. The group of Great Immortals flew southwest, taking Zhong Shan with them.


    "Farewell to the Holy King~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The ministers of Dazhen knelt down, their eyes filled with respect. The Holy King had traded his freedom for the safety of Dazhen. No one underestimated Zhong Shan; their respect for him only grew stronger. They were determined to fulfill the Holy King''s wishes and repay him with a powerful Dazhen.


    As the ministers knelt in reverence, two different shadows departed from the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, following Zhong Shan.


    One was themander of Dazhen''s Fourth Legion, Mister Shi.


    The other was the chiefmander of Dazhen''s Shadow Guard, Dark Emperor.

 Chapter 841: Frustrated Afu

    <h4>Chapter 841: Frustrated Afu</h4>


    In the Netherworld, Changjing!


    Just like in the Yang Realm, the arrival of a Lesser Thousand World brings sudden changes to the heavens and earth.


    Zhong Shan stood atop Changjing, gazing at the vastndscapes of this Greater Thousand World.


    "Holy King, six major celestial dynasties have raised armies to invade!" Yi Yan reported.


    "Six celestial dynasties'' armies? Since they havee, none shall leave," Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    "Holy King, the Netherworld is different from the Yang Realm. In the Yang Realm, there was a ''Heavenly Phenomenon'' before the world opened, but the Netherworld had none. Therefore, there are no major powers here. ording to information from an enemy general we captured, this invasion by the six celestial dynasties is likely orchestrated by the secondary branch of the Heavenly Family, the ''Heavenly Court,''" Yi Yan continued.


    "Oh?"


    "It''s said that the Heavenly Court has two great immortals from the secondary branch of the Heavenly Family under itsmand!" Yi Yan added.


    "Two great immortals?" A trace of disdain shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    In the Yang Realm, he had dealt with 231 great immortals. Why would he care about just two?


    "Who among my ministers will deal with these two great immortals?" Zhong Shan asked his court.


    "Holy King!" Suddenly, a figure stepped forward.


    "Hmm?"


    "This region is called the ''Wheel Domain,'' and our dynasty is situated near the abandoned Wheel Hall. To the east of Wheel Hall lies the Five Defilements Land. I can use a feng shui array to draw the ''Foulness of Life'' from the Five Defilements. Even great immortals cannot withstand it!" the Mud Buddha confidently dered.


    The Mud Buddha was a Heavenly Immortal, but his confidence in dealing with great immortals showcased the unpredictable power of his feng shui techniques.


    "Very well. Mud Buddha and Wang Ku will face the forces of the Heavenly Family. Capture them alive if possible," Zhong Shan ordered coldly.


    "Yes!" Mud Buddha and Wang Ku immediately epted the mission.


    "Yi Yan, Xiao Wang, Zhao Suo Xiang, Yan Chong Zhi, you four will face the armies of the six celestial dynasties. Try to capture their generals if possible!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    "Go forth!" Zhong Shan then sat in the Immortal Hall, awaiting news from his ministers.


    Before long, the boundless fortune atop Xuanjing began to tremble but did not diminish. This wave of tumultuous fortune originated from the Yang Realm''s main body, announcing allegiance to the Taichu Holy Court.


    The shadow body nced at the sky. Without saying much, a flicker of malevolence shed in its eyes.


    Five dayster, on the front lines, a battlefield suddenly filled with bizarre ck qi. The ck qi seemed to possess a mysterious power; anyone who touched it would immediately age and die. Mud Buddha and Wang Ku had drawn the ''Foulness of Life'' tobat the forces of the Heavenly Family.


    Ten dayster, in front of the Immortal Hall.


    A row of ten prisoners was lined up, including a great immortal from the Heavenly Court and eight generals.


    "Holy King, one of the great immortals has died. These are the remaining captives," Mud Buddha reported solemnly.


    Nodding, Zhong Shan looked at the group.


    "Zhong Shan? Hmph, you had better release me, or when the forces of the Heavenly Family descend, I will ensure that your Great Zheng is reduced to ashes, never to rise again!" Heaven Court threatened hatefully.


    Heaven Court couldn''t fathom how his powerful group, including two great immortals, could suffer such a defeat. How could the people of Great Zheng manipte the ''Foulness of Life''?


    Ignoring Heaven Court, Zhong Shan said calmly, "Liu Wushuang!"


    "I am here!" Liu Wushuang promptly stepped forward.


    "You are the Chief Commander of the Great Zheng''s Jinyiwei, and you are familiar with all the tortures under heaven. I am entrusting these ten prisoners to you. Extract all the techniques they know to enrich our treasury!" Zhong Shanmanded coldly.


    "Extract techniques? Dream on! You think I''ll talk? Never! I won''t say a word," Heaven Court roared angrily.


    "You are in the Great Zheng now, and nothing will be up to you anymore!" Zhong Shan said, flicking his sleeve dismissively.


    Liu Wushuang immediately ordered the ten strong prisoners to be taken to the sky prison. As Zhong Shan had said, once imprisoned in the Great Zheng, it was no longer up to them. Extracting techniques to enrich the treasury? The Jinyiwei were experts in this regard, and Liu Wushuang, in particr, had a perverse love for torture, stemming from three years of torment by a pack of wolves in his youth.


    "Rest assured, Holy King, I will not disappoint your expectations!" Liu Wushuang pledged.


    In the Yang Realm, due to the pressing situation, the main body of Zhong Shan had no choice but to submit to the Taichu Holy Court. In the Netherworld, the Great Zheng carried an air of malevolence simr to Zhong Shan''s own, conquering with ruthless abandon. Any invaders were met with ughter.


    For now, Zhong Shan had no intention of expanding further. Having just descended into the Greater Thousand World, dealing with the immediate threats was sufficient. Other powers were surely watching, and reckless expansion could bring about catastrophic disaster. The foundation of the Great Zheng was still too shallow, iparable to the established Holy Courts of the Greater Thousand World. Currently, its strength was only on par with an ordinary celestial dynasty of the Greater Thousand World.


    Everything had to start anew, but with the foundation of a Holy Court, things would progressively improve��


    In the Yang Realm, the strong of the Taichu Holy Court flew toward the Qingqiu Holy Capital with Zhong Shan in tow.


    "There''s trouble in the court. Sima Zongheng, you are responsible for bringing Zhong Shan to Qingqiu Holy Capital. Everyone else, return to the court with me immediately!" the Taichu Holy Kingmanded suddenly.


    "Yes!" the ministers responded promptly.


    Trouble in the court? What kind of trouble?


    No one asked how the Holy King knew; they just solemnly followed his instructions.


    In an instant, the Taichu Holy King and fifteen of his subordinates vanished before Zhong Shan''s eyes at the speed of a stream of light.


    Zhong Shan remained expressionless. In such a vulnerable position, knowing too much was futile.


    Sima Zongheng looked at Zhong Shan and asked, "What was that ferocious beast in your capital?"


    "Which ferocious beast?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Don''t y dumb with me. I mean the eight-tailed beast. Where is it?" Sima Zongheng demanded.


    "I don''t know. That beastes and goes mysteriously. No one knows where it will appear next!"


    "Are you trying to y tricks on me? You killed my cousin, and even if you die a thousand times, it won''t be enough. Don''t try to fool me!" Sima Zongheng threatened.


    "Are you talking about Sima Ce?"


    "Did you really kill him?"


    "I didn''t kill him. The one who killed him just left; his name is Emperor Xuan Sha. If you have the guts, go stop the Supreme Sacred Realm people?" Zhong Shan sneered at Sima Zongheng.


    Sima Zongheng''s pupils contracted. Stop the Supreme Sacred Realm people? That would be suicide!


    "He killed Sima Ce, but you''re definitely involved. If you had agreed to Sima Ce''s demands, he wouldn''t have died. When we reach Qingqiu, the Sima family will deal with you slowly. Now, I''ll ask you one more time, where is that ferocious beast?" Sima Zongheng''s voice turned icy.


    "Do you think a Heavenly Immortal like me could hide such a gigantic beast right under your ''Great Immortal'' noses?" Zhong Shan retorted with a mocking smile.


    This was undoubtedly sarcasm. Zhong Shan was only a Heavenly Immortal, and yet a Great Immortal couldn''t find the beast and had to ask him? At this moment, Zhong Shan wasn''t afraid of offending Sima Zongheng. After all, he was representing a Holy Court as a hostage, and Sima Zongheng wouldn''t dare kill him.


    "Hmph! Keeping your cultivation will only bring disaster as a hostage in Taichu!" Sima Zongheng said coldly.


    As he spoke, he waved his right hand, and countless spider web-like patterns appeared in the void. These patterns suddenly wrapped around Zhong Shan, binding him tightly withws of the universe.


    "Seal!" Sima Zonghengmanded sharply.


    Zhong Shan''s expression changed as he looked at his own body in surprise.


    "I have sealed all your cultivation. Now, you are no different from a mortal. This is how a hostage emperor should be! Hahaha!" Sima Zonghengughed heartily.


    In the Qingqiu Holy Court, there was a heavily guarded area with numerous pces. One towering hall had a single character inscribed on it: "Prison." In front of this hall stood four or five guards, casually chatting.


    "Have you heard? A Holy Court has be a vassal to our dynasty!"


    "Is it the Great Zheng Holy Court? I heard they areing in the next few days!"


    "A Holy King choosing to be a vassal? We''ve only had celestial emperors submit before, but this is the first time for a Holy King!"


    "Not just in our dynasty, but in the entire Fengzhong Domain! A Holy King vassalizing? How weak must this Holy King be?"


    "I think his name is Zhong Shan."


    "I really want to see what he looks like!"


    As the guards talked, four people flew over from the distance.


    Leading them was a slightly chubby man in an elegant yellow robe, with fair skin and a face full of distress. Three others followed him, all in armor. Two were clearly soldiers, while the other was dressed as a general.


    "Young Master Afu, we''ve arrived," the general said.


    "Brother Hongxiao, tell me, is there really such a heartless grandfather in the world? Just because I snored in my sleep, he sent me to the eighteenth level of hell?" the man in the yellow robeined.


    "You were not just sleeping anywhere; it was a military council meeting room, a very serious ce!" Hongxiao replied, exasperated.


    "But I am the only heir of the Su family. If something happens to me in the eighteenth level of hell, how will he answer to our ancestors?" Young Master Afu said with a face full of grievances.


    Hongxiao''s face twitched as he replied, "If I remember correctly, this is the sixteenth time you''ve been sent to the eighteenth level of hell, right?"


    The implication was clear: if you''ve survived it sixteen times, what could possibly happen now?


    "You don''t understand. I can''t go to the eighteenth level of hell now."


    "Why not?"


    "Don''t you know? That unlucky vassal Holy King, Zhong Shan, ising to Qingqiu soon. What a grand event! How could I miss such an interesting thing and lose my freedom now?"


    Hongxiao: "...!"


    "How about this: let me see that unlucky Zhong Shan first, then I''ll go to the eighteenth level of hell," Afu said eagerly, his eyes shining with anticipation.


    "No way. Marshal Su''s orders are absolute. Young Master Afu, you should stop talking about it. We''ll discuss it after youe out of the eighteenth level of hell in half a month," Hongxiao said sternly.


    Seeing that he couldn''t persuade him, Afu could only droop his head and walk towards the grand hall.


    In front of the hall, the guards were still talking about Zhong Shan. As soon as they saw someone approaching, they stopped their conversation. Recognizing Afu immediately, some quickly left, while two came forward to greet him.


    "Liu Ding (Liu Jia), we greet Young Master Afu. Young Master Afu has been sent to the eighteenth level of hell again? We will immediately prepare a ce for you, making sure you stayfortably and safely," the two guards fawned over him non-stop.


    Everyone knew that Young Master Afu would only stay in the harshest part of hell for a short time. He was a notorious yboy of Qingqiu.


    Afu nced at them disdainfully, his eyes shing with displeasure. "Get lost and prepare quickly!"

 Chapter 842: The Eighteenth Level of Hell

    <h4>Chapter 842: The Eighteenth Level of Hell</h4>


    After several days of flight, Zhong Shan, along with Sima Zongheng, finally arrived at the Qingqiu Holy Capital.


    The Qingqiu Holy Capital was situated amidst a vast mountain range. The mountains of the Greater Thousand World were far grander than those of the Lesser Thousand World. One towering peak soared tens of thousands of miles high. As far as the eye could see, endless mountains stretched out, with numerous cultivators flying by and a great number of fox ns traversing the forests.


    The mist-shrouded Qingqiu Holy Capital was adorned with numerous floating inds in the sky, bathed in infinite golden light descending from above. The vast fortune here surpassed that of Lingxiao Heavenly Court by several times!


    Within these sprawling mountains, the capital was divided into several regions, each with its own bustling market area.


    "Qingqiu Holy Capital!" Zhong Shan took a deep breath, muttering to himself.


    Upon returning, Sima Zonghengnded at the entrance of a bustling market area on the western side of Qingqiu Holy Capital. Several officials from Taichu quickly approached. The leading official wore an octagonal felt hat, his face covered in wrinkles, looking extremely unattractive.


    "My lord!" the leading official bowed, simultaneously ncing at Zhong Shan beside Sima Zongheng.


    Rumors had been rampant in Qingqiu Holy Capitaltely. A Holy King had been taken hostage? Could this be him? Was this Zhong Shan?


    A hint of malice shed in the lead official''s eyes.


    "Sima Sanguang, this is the Great Zheng Holy King Zhong Shan! He has been sealed and is now no different from a mortal!" Sima Zongheng said indifferently.


    "Oh?" The officials all turned to look at Zhong Shan.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan, d in a ck robe, still carried himself with grace, showing no signs of being a prisoner.


    "My lord, is this the man who killed our Third Young Master?" Sima Sanguang asked venomously, staring at Zhong Shan.


    "Sima Ce was not killed by him, but he was involved. Now that he is a vassal to our court, you must not be disrespectful to him!" Sima Zongheng warned sternly.


    "Uh?" Sima Sanguang was slightly taken aback.


    Must not be disrespectful?


    "Then where should we send him as a hostage...?" Sima Sanguang began to ask but was cut off by Sima Zongheng.


    "He has no freedom now anyway. Send him to your ce!" Sima Zongheng said.


    "To my ce?" Sima Sanguang asked in astonishment.


    "Yes, find the quietest ce you have," Sima Zongheng said with a sinister smile.


    "The quietest? The eighteenth level?" Sima Sanguang asked tentatively.


    "Yes, that will do. Treat him well!" Sima Zongheng replied with a wicked grin.


    Seeing Sima Zongheng''s expression, Sima Sanguang immediately understood. Treat him well? The eighteenth level? Could anyone be treated well there? Given the close rtionship between Sima Ce and Sima Zongheng, and Sima Ce''s death being rted to Zhong Shan, how could Sima Zongheng not make him suffer?


    "Yes, I will not disappoint you, my lord!"


    "From here to your ce is ten miles. Zhong Shan is now a mortal, don''t rush. Let him take a good look at Qingqiu Holy Capital!"


    "Yes!"


    "Hahaha!"


    After giving his orders, Sima Zonghengughed heartily and vanished with a flick of his sleeve.


    "Holy King Zhong, pleasee with us!" Sima Sanguang said with a broad smile.


    Sima Sanguang''s heart was filled with satisfaction. The dignified Holy King had now be his prisoner?


    In a ce like Qingqiu Holy Capital, filled with countless nobles, Sima Sanguang''s position as the warden of Qingqiu''s great prison was indeed lowly. Constantly under pressure and looked down upon, he now found himself in charge of a Holy King''s fate. How could he not be pleased?


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded. There was no need for him to get angry at someone like Sima Sanliang.


    A group of people walked along a main street.


    Sima Sanliang, still unsatisfied, thought for a moment and then said, "You few, spread the word everywhere. Tell them Zhong Shan has arrived in Qingqiu, is on Prison Street, and is about to enter Qingqiu''s great prison. Go quickly!"


    "Yes!" Several prison guards immediately flew away.


    "And the rest of you, the arrival of Holy King Zhong Shan cannot go unnoticed. Beat the gongs and clear the streets!" Sima Sanliang ordered the remaining guards.


    "Yes!"


    "Hahaha!" Sima Sanliang was immensely proud.


    "Bang!" "Bang!" The sounds of gongs reverberated through the street as people retreated to the sides, watching this peculiar procession.


    "Everyone, this is the Great Zheng''s Holy King Zhong Shan!" Sima Sanliang shouted.


    "The Great Zheng Holy King?"


    "Is he really the Great Zheng Holy King?"


    "What is happening? Where is Sima Sanliang taking him? Shouldn''t he be going to the hostage pce?"


    "Are they imprisoning him?"


    "The Great Zheng Holy King in prison?"


    The entire Prison Street buzzed with excitement, as people curiously watched Zhong Shan in the center.


    A Holy King being imprisoned was unprecedented and extremely unusual. Word of this quickly spread in all directions.


    "Holy King Zhong Shan has arrived on Prison Street!"


    "He is parading on Prison Street, about to enter Qingqiu''s great prison!"


    More and more people gathered. Just days ago, this news was merely a rumor, but now it was confirmed.


    Ten miles of street were not easy to traverse, especially with Zhong Shan in his current mortal state.


    The crowd grewrger andrger.


    "Look, that''s Zhong Shan!"


    "See, the Great Zheng Holy King is just like anyone else!"


    "In Qingqiu, no matter how strong or noble you are, you must bow down!"


    People chattered endlessly. Sima Sanliang was visibly proud. He had never received so much attention before; although the attention wasn''t directly on him, it was because of him that so many people hade.


    Zhong Shan remained silent throughout. Being treated like a spectacle was indeed ufortable, but he understood these people''s mentality. Only cowards and those unworthy of the stage would delight in others'' misfortune. Today, he was a prisoner mocked by others. Tomorrow, he would rise again, and their expressions would be worth seeing.


    Of course, Zhong Shan had never suffered such humiliation before. Though calm on the surface, the pride in his bones made him remember this moment deeply.


    Sima Sanliang was pleased but slightly dissatisfied that Zhong Shan did not resist. If Zhong Shan had resisted, cursed, or fought back, it would have been perfect, giving Sima Sanliang a chance to showcase his ferocity. But Zhong Shan was toopliant, silent, and therefore a coward in Sima Sanliang''s eyes.


    Coward? Once Sima Sanliang witnessed Zhong Shan''s true strength, he would no longer think so.


    Traversing the ten-mile-long Prison Street, Zhong Shan endured endless mockery without uttering a word, until he reached the end, a heavily guarded area surrounded by a formation.


    The Qingqiu Great Prison was a deep andplex ce. Passing through over a dozen checkpoints, Zhong Shan and his escorts finally arrived at the inner section, where numerous pces stood. Thergest pce had a que with the character "Prison" inscribed on it.


    Themotion outside had already aroused the curiosity of all the officials within the Qingqiu Great Prison. As Sima Sanliang brought Zhong Shan in, everyone craned their necks to get a good look at this extraordinary Holy King.


    "Liu Ding, Liu Jia!" Sima Sanliang shouted.


    "My lord, here we are!" Two prison guards hurriedly came forward.


    "Find a remote ce and send him to prison!" Sima Sanliang ordered.


    "But my lord, we are in charge of the eighteenth level of hell! Is it really appropriate to send him there?" one of them asked.


    "Inappropriate? What''s inappropriate? I''ll take responsibility for anything that happens. Now, hurry up!" Sima Sanliangmanded.


    "Yes!" Liu Ding and Liu Jia responded immediately.


    Since the lord had spoken, what reason did they have to refuse?


    "Holy King Zhong, please follow us!" Sima Sanliang sneered.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Without arguing, Zhong Shan followed Liu Ding and Liu Jia towards the pcebeled "Prison." As he walked away, Sima Sanliang''s eyes grew colder.


    Inside the grand hall were eighteen circr ck tforms.


    "Step onto this prison tform," Liu Ding and Liu Jia instructed.


    Zhong Shan stepped onto the tform, and suddenly, countless colorful lights shed around it, making the entire tform seem to tremble.


    For five full seconds, the tform vibrated. Zhong Shan felt an immense weight descend upon him, as if he were carrying a mountain. The colorful lights vanished, and even the ck tform disappeared.


    Zhong Shan found himself in a different ce.


    The sky was gloomy, with countless gue-bearing insects floating around. The air was thick with the stench of decaying corpses. This was a vast, circr valley with a diameter of a hundred miles. Thick ck mist enveloped the mountains, exuding a menacing aura. At the center of the valley, a beam of light shot straight into the sky.


    Leaning against the foot of a mountain, Zhong Shan found himself in a ten-zhang-wide circle, half of which was embedded in the mountain. As he approached the edge, the circle emitted a lot of ck light, making it impossible to touch.


    A prison marked by a line. Unable to leave, Zhong Shan could only move within this ten-zhang area.


    In this valley, there were nearly twenty thousand such circr prison cells. Some cells held only one prisoner, while others held several. Many prisoners looked haggard, with disheveled hair.


    "Crack!" Suddenly, one prisoner''s chest copsed inward, and he spat blood, dying instantly!


    He had been crushed by his own weight.


    Zhong Shan quickly realized the peculiarity of this ce. The gravity here was over twenty thousand times normal. The prisoners, their powers sealed, had to rely solely on their physical bodies to withstand this immense gravity. The eighteenth level of hell was not a ce for ordinary people.


    With his extraordinarily strong body, Zhong Shan did not feel much burden.


    Leaning against the foot of the mountain, Zhong Shan sat cross-legged.


    "Snore! Snore!"


    As soon as he sat down, he heard a strange sound. Turning his head, he was slightly taken aback.


    A bonsai? Air purification? Numerous bonsai nts surrounded a central table and arge bed. The table wasden with various delicacies, and on the bedy a chubby man in yellow clothes. With cotton balls stuffed in his ears, he hugged a pillow and slept soundly, his snoring surprisingly pleasant in the otherwise harsh environment.


    Enjoying himself in the eighteenth level of hell?


    "Hey, kid, what crime did youmit to be sent to the eighteenth level of hell?" a burly man with a fierce face suddenly called out.


    "Yeah, we''ve been here for eight thousand years. Tell us, what''s it like outside?" another prisoner asked.


    "I''m talking to you, kid! Are you looking for death?" the burly man shouted.


    Zhong Shan ignored them, sitting cross-legged as if in deep meditation.

 Chapter 843: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Ferocity

    <h4>Chapter 843: Zhong Shan''s Ferocity</h4>


    In a pce, a noblewoman red at Sima Sanliang, who stood bowed before her.


    "My son cannot die in vain. Now that Zhong Shan is in your hands, make his life a living hell! Sima Zongheng handed Zhong Shan over to you with this intention," the noblewoman said coldly.


    "Yes!" Sima Sanliang replied, not daring to lift his head.


    "As long as you don''t kill Zhong Shan, I can back you up in Qingqiu."


    "Thank you, Madam!"


    "Go now!"


    "Yes!" ��


    In another pce within the Qingqiu Great Prison, Sima Sanliang faced prison guards Liu Ding and Liu Jia.


    "Don''t worry, my lord. In the eighteenth level of hell, all cultivation is sealed, and each prisoner endures over twenty thousand times their body weight. Even as a Heavenly Immortal, Zhong Shan will find it hard to move. We''ll make sure Zhong Shan wishes he were dead!" Liu Ding pledged fervently.


    "Did I say to kill him?" Sima Sanliang frowned.


    "Uh..."


    "Break his limbs and make his life unbearable, but leave him alive!" Sima Sanliangmanded.


    "Yes!" Liu Ding responded immediately.


    "But my lord, the eighteenth level of hell is for the most severe offenders. Each prison cell can only be opened with the joint keys of the fivemanders. You have one key, but what about the other four?" Liu Jia expressed concern.


    "I will host a banquet for them. With Young Master Afu inside, I can im to be delivering something to him. They will lend me their keys. I will keep them upied while you act quickly!" Sima Sanliang instructed.


    "Yes!" ��


    In the eighteenth level of hell, the prisoners, having failed to provoke a reaction from Zhong Shan, eventually quieted down. The valley echoed with the cries of suffering prisoners and the loud snores of the fat manfortably asleep in the corner.


    Zhong Shan sat quietly, contemting his next move.


    Less than a dayter, Zhong Shan''s eyelids twitched��someone was approaching.


    From the central light pir, two figures emerged: Liu Ding and Liu Jia from the previous day.


    Scanning the area, they quickly spotted Zhong Shan. After exchanging a nce, they nodded and moved towards the other prison cells.


    After about the time it takes to burn two sticks of incense, Liu Ding and Liu Jia returned with over a dozen burly prisoners. They ced five differently colored beads into the five slots on the ground outside Zhong Shan''s cell.


    "Buzz!"


    With a faint sound, the group of prisoners easily entered. Liu Ding and Liu Jia swiftly retrieved the beads, reactivating the ck energy barrier around the cell.


    "Liu Ding, Liu Jia, you better keep your word!" growled a prisoner with a chest covered in ck hair.


    "Follow my instructions, and you will be transferred to the seventeenth level of hell!" Liu Ding assured.


    The prisoners nodded, then turned their fierce gazes towards Zhong Shan.


    "Liu Ding, Liu Jia, what is the meaning of this?" Zhong Shan asked calmly, without opening his eyes.


    "It means exactly what you think it means, Zhong Shan," Liu Ding sneered. "Break his limbs!"


    As the prisoners advanced on Zhong Shan, his eyes finally opened, revealing a cold, determined gaze. The air around him seemed to crackle with suppressed power, despite his sealed cultivation.


    "You think you can break me?" Zhong Shan''s voice was icy, sending a shiver down the spine of even the fiercest prisoner.


    Before they could react, Zhong Shan moved. Even with his immense burden, his movements were swift and precise. With a well-ced strike, he disarmed the first prisoner, using the man''s own weight against him. The others hesitated for a moment, but their desperation drove them forward.


    The confined space erupted into chaos. Zhong Shan''s physical prowess, honed through countless battles and tempered by his unyielding will, was evident. One by one, the prisoners fell, either incapacitated or unwilling to face the enraged Holy King.


    Liu Ding and Liu Jia watched in disbelief as Zhong Shan, supposedly as helpless as a mortal, systematically dismantled their n. Fear crept into their eyes as thest prisoner crumpled to the ground.


    Zhong Shan turned his gaze towards them, his expression a mask of cold fury. "You underestimated me," he said softly, but the menace in his voice was unmistakable. "You will pay for this."


    The two guards backed away, realizing toote the gravity of their mistake. In the depths of the eighteenth level of hell, Zhong Shan''s ferocity had been unleashed, and there would be no mercy.


    "The cells in hell are tight, so you''ll have to squeeze in together!" Liu Ding sneered.


    At this moment, prisoners in other circr cells turned their attention to themotion.


    "Liu Ding, Liu Jia, if you''re going to mess with someone, at leaste up with a good excuse! Hahaha!" a prisoner in a distant cellughed.


    "Yeah, who is this guy? He''s only been here a day, and you''re already going after him?" another prisoner shouted.


    "Shut up!" Liu Jia barked.


    But the prisoners in the eighteenth level of hell were not easily intimidated, and they jeered loudly.


    "Get going!" Liu Ding ordered the dozen or so prisoners in Zhong Shan''s cell.


    The prisoners nodded. One of them, a particrly burly man, said, "He''s just like us, with his cultivation sealed. We are all notorious tough guys. Are we supposed to be afraid of him? I''ve had enough of this ce. Let''s go!"


    The group of prisoners surrounded Zhong Shan, cracking their knuckles as they prepared to attack.


    As they moved closer, Liu Ding and Liu Jia stood outside the cell, grinning wickedly. They found such tormenting tasks all too easy.


    The prisoners raised their fists, ready to strike Zhong Shan.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s eyes snapped open. A fierce, unparalleled murderous aura erupted from his gaze.


    The aura was terrifying, reminiscent of the killing intent of the Four Swords of Execution, and it shot straight into the prisoners'' hearts. Just moments ago, they had been determined to attack, but now, their fists froze in mid-air. Zhong Shan''s eyes were too frightening. The prisoners saw death in those eyes, as if they were being frozen by his gaze.


    The aura of murderous intent was something they had never encountered before.


    To be in the eighteenth level of hell, one had to be exceptionally dangerous, but these notorious criminals were paralyzed by Zhong Shan''s gaze alone.


    Without any fluctuation of spiritual power, without even moving, Zhong Shan had subdued them with his eyes.


    The prisoners swallowed hard, unable to strike, as if a voice was warning them that any attack would result in immediate death.


    Zhong Shan''s menacing gaze was not a technique but a manifestation of his life experiencesbined with the essence of the Four Swords of Execution, a godlike murderous intent that overawed the surroundings.


    The prisoners, initially panicked, began to retreat.


    "ck Iron Tower, are you stupid? Why aren''t you fighting? Are you scared? Hahaha!" a prisoner in another cellughed.


    "Fight! I haven''t seen a good fight in a long time. Come on!" others jeered.


    But the prisoners, terrified by Zhong Shan''s gaze, dared not move. Cold sweat poured down their foreheads. Despite their lifelong ferocity, they had never seen such a terrifying look.


    Fight? They dared not. None of them dared to touch Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s terrifying gaze moved to Liu Ding and Liu Jia.


    "The Sima family sent you, right? You''d better not provoke me. The consequences are beyond your ability to handle," Zhong Shan said coldly.


    Shuddering from Zhong Shan''s fierce gaze, Liu Ding and Liu Jia felt a wave of fear.


    "What are you afraid of? He''s just a mortal now, oppressed by the eighteenth level of hell and with his cultivation sealed by Sima Zongheng. My cultivation is still intact. I''m a Profound Immortal. What do I have to fear?" Liu Ding tried to bolster his courage.


    "Six Ding, what should we do? The lord is still waiting above!" Liu Jia said nervously.


    "These useless fools, we can''t rely on them. We''ll have to do it ourselves. He''s just a mortal now. What do we, two Profound Immortals, have to fear? The sooner we act, the sooner we can report back!" Liu Ding dered.


    "Really scared? Six Ding, Liu Jia, who is this guy? Why are ck Iron Tower and the others so terrified?"


    "Yeah, who is he? Why are you messing with him just a day after he arrived?"


    The other prisoners in the eighteenth level of hell were endlessly curious, shouting loudly. Their noise seemed to encourage Six Ding and Liu Jia.


    Six Ding and Liu Jia opened the cell again. ck Iron Tower and the dozen or so other prisoners quickly jumped out, clearly still shaken by Zhong Shan''s fierce gaze.


    Six Ding held an iron chain, while Liu Jia wielded arge club. They approached Zhong Shan with malevolent intent.


    "Are you ready to face the consequences?" Zhong Shan said coldly, still sitting cross-legged.


    Liu Jia swallowed nervously, his eyes shing with a fierce light. "He''s just a mortal, what is there to fear?"


    "Consequences? Even if we have to face them, it''s not now. Besides, we''re just following orders!" Liu Jia said.


    "Enough talk, let''s take him down!" Six Ding shouted.


    As Liu Jia swung the club at Zhong Shan, red and blue lights swirled around it, making it look particrly formidable.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold. "The consequences I mentioned are now!"


    As he spoke, Zhong Shan extended his right hand to meet the club. Everyone held their breath. In that moment, the eighteenth level of hell was eerily silent, save for the loud snoresing from the corner.


    Zhong Shan''s right hand emitted a faint silver light, enveloped in a gentle mist.


    This was the Heavenly Palm, guided by the Dao of Heaven. How could Sima Zongheng''s seal possibly restrain it?


    The sight of Zhong Shan''s glowing hand made Liu Jia realize something was wrong.


    This is bad! His cultivation isn''t sealed? I''m attacking a Holy King? Liu Jia''s heart pounded with fear, but it was toote.


    "Boom!"


    The club shattered upon impact, and Zhong Shan''s powerful hand strikended on Liu Jia, causing him to explode on the spot, despite being a Profound Immortal.


    Six Ding was stunned by this sight. He turned and fled at a terrifying speed.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan struck with a palm from a distance, creating a phantom hand in the void that caused Six Ding to explode.


    The entire eighteenth level of hell fell into an eerie silence. Everyone stared at Zhong Shan, eyes filled with shock and awe. His dominance was undeniable.


    "Awesome! That was amazing!" came an excited shout from a corner. All eyes turned to see the chubby man in yellow, now awake. Although he had cotton balls in his ears, he had heard themotion outside and was used to sleeping through noise. The sudden silence had disturbed his sleep, and he had awoken just in time to see Zhong Shan''s disy of power.


    He couldn''t believe his eyes. A prisoner in the eighteenth level of hell, capable of destroying guards?


    The guards, protected by their red bracelets, were immune to the suppression of their powers. But the prisoners had no such protection. How could a mortal body achieve such a feat?


    The prisoners who had intended to trouble Zhong Shan now felt a wave of relief.


    "ck Iron Tower, we owe you one!" one prisoner said to their leader.


    Indeed, if ck Iron Tower hadn''t led them in retreating, the other prisoners might have foolishly charged forward and faced Zhong Shan''s wrath.


    Having dealt with the guards in two strikes, Zhong Shan knew this wouldn''t end peacefully. He stood up slowly and looked around at the fierce prisoners in the eighteenth level of hell.


    His gaze swept over them, exuding an aura of imperial dominance. Countless prisoners felt a wave of reverence in their hearts.


    A Holy King remained a Holy King, no matter where he was.

 Chapter 844: You Have Guts

    <h4>Chapter 844: You Have Guts</h4>


    ncing around at the prisoners, Zhong Shan slightly raised his head, examining the eighteenth level of hell. A cold smile flickered in his eyes.


    "Taichu Holy King, is this supposed to be a warning for me?"


    "If so, I can''t let you underestimate me," Zhong Shan muttered to himself.


    Although no one heard what Zhong Shan said, they could all sense a noble aura emanating from him, a powerful presence only a true leader could possess. This presence was not merely a result of his cultivation but was also due to the weight of his position and his experiences.


    The dozen or so prisoners quickly retrieved two intact red bracelets from the shattered remains of Liu Ding and Liu Jia.


    "ck Iron Tower, this thing?" One of the prisoners hesitated, holding a red bracelet.


    If they hadn''t witnessed Zhong Shan''s terrifying power, the prisoners would have immediately worn the red bracelets to restore their cultivation and quickly escape the eighteenth level of hell. But having seen Zhong Shan''s aura, they hesitated.


    ck Iron Tower took the bracelets and cautiously approached Zhong Shan.


    "Senior, these are red bracelets. Wearing them can remove the suppression of the eighteenth level of hell," ck Iron Tower said cautiously.


    Zhong Shan, having decided on his next move, felt much more at ease. Looking at ck Iron Tower, he ignored the red bracelets and asked, "What is this eighteenth level of hell?"


    "The eighteenth level of hell? It''s said to be a top-grade celestial artifact, an eighteen-story pagoda-like treasure. It''s currently inverted in the Qingqiu Great Prison. Entering it seals your cultivation, and with each lower level, the gravity doubles. Only by wearing these red bracelets can one avoid the effects. Most of Qingqiu Holy Capital''s prisoners are held here," ck Iron Tower exined honestly.


    Meanwhile, the prisoners were filled with curiosity. How could this man remain unaffected without wearing a red bracelet?


    Stepping out of the cell, Zhong Shan reached out and retrieved the five beads from the slots. The beads contained the energies of gold, wood, water, fire, and earth.


    "These are the keys to the cells. For levels below the fifteenth, which house the most dangerous criminals, all five beads are required to open the cells," ck Iron Tower said.


    "Put on the red bracelets and open all the cells," Zhong Shan ordered calmly.


    "Uh?" ck Iron Tower was slightly taken aback.


    "Didn''t you hear me?" Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "Yes!"


    ck Iron Tower quickly put on a red bracelet and gave the other to another prisoner. They began opening the cells.


    Zhong Shan waited patiently.


    Before long, over ten thousand prisoners were freed.


    "Thank you, Senior!" The prisoners immediately expressed their gratitude to Zhong Shan.


    Even the fiercest individuals, after being imprisoned for thousands or even tens of thousands of years, had an indescribable yearning for freedom. Zhong Shan''s strength was evident to all. If he could unleash such power in a mortal body, how powerful would he be without suppression? Perhaps, even the eighteenth level of hell couldn''t hold him.


    The chubby man in yellow was also released. Seeing all the prisoners freed from their cells, his eyes gleamed with excitement. This was a grand spectacle. What was this man nning? A massive uprising?


    A massive uprising? Exciting! The young master loved it! Finally, he was witnessing another grand event!


    Surveying the prisoners, Zhong Shan nodded and said, "Follow me as we ascend through each level of the eighteenth level of hell, freeing all the prisoners."


    "Yes!" the prisoners responded.


    In prison, strengthmands respect. Zhong Shan was powerful, so everyone was willing to follow him, especially since it might lead to their freedom.


    Reaching the central light pir, Zhong Shan led a group of prisoners upwards to the seventeenth level of hell. The passage above was straightforward, just requiring some flight to reach.


    In no time, they arrived at the seventeenth level.


    "Who are you people?" Seven or eight prison guards shouted angrily upon seeing the intruders.


    ck Iron Tower and another prisoner quickly charged forward. Both were Heavenly Immortals and, now free from suppression, their strength far surpassed that of the guards. Driven by the pent-up rage from being suppressed for thousands of years, they struck mercilessly, swiftly killing the guards.


    "Free the prisoners," Zhong Shan ordered calmly.


    Zhong Shan was direct. He didn''t concern himself with the crimes these people hadmitted. In the Qingqiu Great Prison, did it matter? He was determined to deliver a significant blow to Qingqiu Holy Capital.


    Meanwhile, in a grand hall not far from Qingqiu Great Prison, Sima Sanliang, dressed in official robes, was drinking with four other simrly attired officials.


    In the center of the hall, a dozen dancing girls performed gracefully.


    "Sima Sanliang, I heard you gave the Holy King from the Great Zheng a real humiliation yesterday? Quite the audacity!" one of the officials remarked.


    "Hahaha, if any of you are interested, you can have a go too!" Sima Sanliang boasted.


    "We don''t have such nerve."


    "By the way, what does Young Master Afu want? Liu Ding and Liu Jia aren''t back yet!"


    "They should be back soon! No need to worry. What could go wrong in Qingqiu Great Prison? Enjoy the food, watch the dance, and I have some good stuff to show youter," Sima Sanliang said with a smile.


    The other four officials nodded but their brows furrowed slightly, sensing something amiss.


    As evening fell, the dancers in the hall had changed several times. Sima Sanliang frowned. Liu Ding and Liu Jia were taking too long. Why weren''t they back yet?


    "We can''t wait any longer. We need to leave. What about the keys? Sima Sanliang, are you hiding something from us?"


    "Of course not!" Sima Sanliang quickly shook his head.


    "Then where are our keys?"


    "I have to check the eighteenth level of hell. We can''t lose the keys."


    "Those keys are our official seals."


    The officials were growing impatient. They were no longer interested in the dancers and stood up immediately.


    "Wait, wait, please don''t be hasty. There''s really no problem!" Sima Sanliang pleaded.


    "No problem? Sima Sanliang, we lent you the keys out of camaraderie, but you keep evading and won''t tell us the truth. You''ve disappointed us!"


    "We need those keys back now!"


    "Sima Sanliang, where are the keys?" one of the officials demanded.


    "Well, I did send Liu Ding and Liu Jia to the eighteenth level of hell on an errand. It''s a family matter," Sima Sanliang admitted reluctantly.


    "A family matter?"


    "What exactly?"


    "Uh, just to teach someone a lesson. It''s nothing major. We''ve done it before, haven''t we? It''s no big deal," Sima Sanliang said with a forced smile.


    "Who?"


    "The Great Zheng Holy King!" Sima Sanliang replied.


    "What?" one of the officials'' voices rose sharply.


    All four officials red at Sima Sanliang. If it were an ordinary person, they wouldn''t care how Sima Sanliang dealt with them. But a renowned figure? They never dared touch such people. Their reputation was their capital. Who could guarantee that no one outside was trying to rescue them? Ordinary notable figures were off-limits, let alone a Holy King from the Great Zheng. A single mistake, and their positions asmanders of Qingqiu Great Prison could be jeopardized.


    All four officials stared daggers at Sima Sanliang.


    "Nothing will go wrong, trust me. I, Sima Sanliang, swear on my honor, nothing will happen," Sima Sanliang vowed.


    Just as Sima Sanliang finished speaking, a prison guard rushed into the hall, panic-stricken.


    "My lord, something terrible has happened!" the guard shouted, making the fivemanders'' hearts skip a beat.


    "What is it?" Sima Sanliang immediately asked.


    "The eighteenth level of hell��the prisoners have all escaped! A million prisoners are loose, causing chaos!" the guard yelled.


    The guard''s announcement left the fivemanders pale-faced.


    "Sima Sanliang, you��you...!" onemander shouted in anger.


    There was no time to reprimand Sima Sanliang. They bolted out of the hall.


    In an instant, Sima Sanliang was left alone. A million prisoners had escaped? His face turned ashen.


    Above the eighteenth level of hell, on the surface.


    The destruction caused by a million prisoners was horrific, especially those confined to the eighteenth level of hell. The moment they broke free, they unleashed their unparalleled ferocity. Kill, destroy��those were their only thoughts!


    In no time, all the buildings around Qingqiu Great Prison were demolished. Qingqiu Great Prison had grand formations, but they were designed to defend against external enemies. Escaping from the inside was rtively easy.


    Countless ck figures flew out of Qingqiu Great Prison.


    "Gahaha! The old demon is free!"


    "Jiejiejie! The sky is vast, no one can catch me now!"


    Outside Qingqiu Great Prison, chaos reigned as countless fearsome criminals flew in all directions.


    A million prisoners were escaping, filling the sky and ground with their shadows. Near Qingqiu Great Prison, some reserve troops used special spells to send distress signals. The moment the signals went out, the entire Qingqiu Holy Capital was in an uproar.


    "The highest level distress signal? Is another Holy Court attacking? Or is someone breaking into the prison?" a city guard captain eximed, standing up in shock.


    In a military training ground:


    "This is bad! We''re under attack! Follow me to reinforce Qingqiu Great Prison!"


    "Roarrrrr!" the army roared in unison, preparing for battle.


    All the prisoners, filled with rage, charged out. At the entrance to the eighteenth level of hell stood two figures: Zhong Shan and the chubby man in yellow, who had been snoring moments before.


    "My grandfather once said that an old man who could never be a Buddha once vowed, ''I will not be a Buddha until hell is empty.'' Does this count as emptying hell?" the chubby man asked curiously.


    "I suppose it does," Zhong Shan replied, looking at the chubby man in surprise.


    "That monk was unlucky. If he were imprisoned in Taichu, he would have be a Buddha long ago."


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    "Brother, you''ve got guts. I, Su Afu, thought I was daring in Qingqiu, but seeing you, I realize there''s always someone more impressive. People areing soon. You should go quickly. I need to get going too. I''ve been locked up for days and need to find out if that ''cursed Holy King'' Zhong Shan has arrived at Taichu. I must go back and check."


    With that, the chubby man stamped his foot and disappeared from Zhong Shan''s sight.

 Chapter 845: Era of Great Chaos

    <h4>Chapter 845: Era of Great Chaos</h4>


    As Su Afu departed, ck Iron Tower approached with a group of newly freed prisoners.


    "Senior, everything is done," ck Iron Tower said respectfully.


    "Hmm. Qingqiu''s army will arrive soon. You should leave quickly," Zhong Shan replied with a nod.


    "Yes, Senior. We are deeply grateful for your kindness. May we know your name?" ck Iron Tower asked, looking at Zhong Shan before leaving.


    "Zhong Shan," he answered calmly.


    The group of fierce prisoners etched the name into their memories, bowed deeply to Zhong Shan, and quickly flew away.


    As the million prisoners escaped, chaos spread throughout the outside world.


    Zhong Shan stood at the exit of the eighteenth level of hell, holding five beads in his palm��the keys to the eighteenth level of hell, as well as the treasure to activate it.


    Throwing the five beads into the air and casting numerous incantations, the beads radiated with billions of rays of light.


    "Boom!"


    The ground shook, and in an instant, a massive ck tower rose from the earth, emanating a terrifying aura.


    This was the eighteenth level of hell. Activating it with the five beads, the tower emitted thousands of ck rays.


    On the surrounding ground, countless ck rays shot up, resonating with the eighteenth level of hell, forming a terrifying ck dome. Inside the dome, all the prison guards who had rushed over were suddenly ensnared by the ck energy, causing them to copse unconscious.


    The Great Luo Zhou Tian Star Formation, as modified by the formation genius Nangong Sheng, no longer required the power of the stars for itsyout. Instead, it needed a powerful base. Using the base''s power to rece the stars, it created a Zhou Tian world, different depending on the base.


    Earlier, ck Iron Tower and the other prisoners had followed Zhong Shan''s instructions to set up some formation outlines. Oncepleted, the Zhou Tian world created by the eighteenth level of hell was incredibly strong.


    This Zhou Tian world could not only trap those inside but also prevent anyone from entering from the outside.


    After finishing everything, Zhong Shan flicked his sleeves and walked out of the formation, disregarding all eyes on him.


    Standing atop a peak, Zhong Shan gazed at Qingqiu Great Prison in the distance.


    Outside Qingqiu Great Prison, green light shone brilliantly��that was the prison''s original formation. There were over a dozenyers, which Zhong Shan had noticed when he first entered, all incredibly powerful. Now they were fully activated. Within the green formation, ck energy permeated, exuding an evil aura��that was the Zhou Tian world created by the eighteenth level of hell.


    In the sky, the ck energy surged high, making Qingqiu Great Prison look like a terrifying ghostly pit, horrifying to behold.


    Zhong Shan did everything with precision. He intended to make a significant impact but not to the point of total destruction. Although a million fierce prisoners were released, the Taichu Holy Court could recapture them if they had the ability. He didn''t utterly destroy the eighteenth level of hell but used it as a form of retaliatory humiliation. It was a matter of who could inflict more disgrace.


    At this moment, countless strong individuals were rushing toward Qingqiu Great Prison.


    "Sir, the fierce aura inside suggests there''s an unparalleled demon within!"


    "Sir, the prisoners from the eighteenth level of hell have all escaped. The eighteenth level may be lost."


    "Sir, none of the guards havee out. Could they all be dead?"


    Those who arrived first reported to the officials who arrivedter.


    "Break the formation, quickly!" the officialmanded, his eyes wide with urgency.


    "Sir, the internal formation is activated. We can''t locate the variable points to break it!"


    "Break it by force, now!" the official shouted.


    The incident fell under the jurisdiction of the present official. With the escape of a million prisoners, there was no escaping responsibility. The fivemanders of Qingqiu Great Prison would face severe repercussions if this disaster grew anyrger.


    "Yes, sir!"


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The powerful sounds of attempts to break the formation echoed through the sky. The entire area surrounding Qingqiu Great Prison was filled with the deafening noise of these forceful assaults.


    However, Qingqiu Great Prison''s formations were not easily broken. This was a heavily fortified location, and breaking through the formations in a short time was an impossible dream.


    Just then, an army of eighty thousand soldiers arrived.


    "What''s happening?" the leading general shouted.


    "General, it''s terrible! A million prisoners have escaped from Qingqiu Great Prison. We can''t break the formation, and there''s likely a fierce demon inside causing havoc!" the previously anxious official reported.


    "A million prisoners?" The general took a deep breath.


    "General, we need to break the formation first!" the official urged.


    "First to Ninth Battalions, focus all efforts on breaking the formation. Tenth Battalion, head to the major military camps in Qingqiu Holy Capital to notify all generals. Capture the fleeing prisoners at all costs!" the general ordered.


    "Yes, sir!"


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The relentless efforts to break the formation continued. Everyone who arrived for the rescue was on edge. The area around Qingqiu Great Prison was a scene of fiery explosions and terrifying impacts as powerful attacks bombarded the prison.


    Seventy to eighty thousand people attacking Qingqiu Great Prison simultaneously was a sight to behold. The entire area glowed brightly, resembling a radiant sun with beams of light shooting in all directions. The intense noise and vibrations forced the citizens of Qingqiu Holy Capital to shut their doors and stay inside.


    A major crisis had erupted!


    All the rescuers were extremely tense, driven by the urgency to act quickly. Meanwhile, the soldiers sent to other military camps spread the chaos throughout Qingqiu Holy Capital. In no time, the entire city was engulfed in tension, with countless strong figures flying around to capture the escaped prisoners.


    Qingqiu Holy Capital hadn''t seen such chaos in a long time.


    Zhong Shan watched the scene with a strange expression on his face. Shaking his head, he stepped away from the chaos.


    On a floating ind within Qingqiu Holy Capital, there was arge courtyard. In the courtyard, an elderly man with graying hair frowned deeply, holding a teapot. His anxiety was evident, as his grip had caused fine cracks to form on the teapot.


    Standing before the elder was General Hongxiao, who had escorted Su Afu to the eighteenth level of hell.


    "Marshal Su, there''s a highest-level distress signal from Qingqiu Great Prison. Young Master Afu is still there. I must go and bring him back," General Hongxiao said urgently.


    The elder shook his head, though his eyes were filled with concern. "No, Taichu has its rules. Orders cannot be changed from morning to evening. Since Afu was sentenced to half a month, he mustplete the term."


    "But what if he''s in danger?"


    "The eighteenth level of hell is a top-tier celestial artifact. Forcibly damaging it would trigger powerful formations. Afu is very safe in the eighteenth level of hell," the elder said, taking a deep breath.


    "But what if something unexpected happens? Marshal Su, I understand you have to consider more than we do, but Afu is the only heir of the Su family. We can''t risk his safety. I won''t extract him, only guard him. The spies watching you can''t find fault with that," General Hongxiao implored.


    The elder hesitated, clearly torn between his duty and his concern for his grandson''s safety. The anxiety in his eyes was palpable as he weighed the options.


    "Hmm, you may go then!" the elder immediately nodded.


    "Yes, sir!"


    "Wait!" the elder called out.


    "What else would youmand, Marshal Su?" General Hongxiao asked, puzzled.


    "Take the Tiangang Thirty-Six Generals and the Disha Seventy-Two Generals with you," the elder instructed.


    "Yes, sir!" Hongxiao responded, breaking into a cold sweat. Moments ago, the elder hesitated to send anyone, and now he was dispatching over a hundred elite soldiers?


    As Hongxiao prepared to leave, the courtyard door suddenly flew open with a loud bang.


    "Someone,e quickly!" Su Afu''s excited shout followed as he energetically bounded into the courtyard.


    The elder and Hongxiao were left in stunned silence. They had just been about to rescue him, and now here he was, lively as ever.


    "You rascal!" the elder roared.


    Su Afu froze at the sound, then turned to look at his grandfather.


    "Grandfather, you didn''t go out today?" Su Afu asked with a pained expression.


    "What do you think?" the elder replied sternly.


    "Young Master Afu, how did you get back?" Hongxiao asked, puzzled.


    "I came back to see that unlucky Holy King, Zhong Shan. Has he arrived in Qingqiu yet?" Su Afu immediately asked Hongxiao.


    "He arrived yesterday," Hongxiao nodded.


    "No way! Am I that unlucky? I missed him by just one day! My wager!" Su Afu wailed.


    "What wager?" Hongxiao asked, frowning.


    "I made a bet with some nobles about who would see the unlucky Holy King first. My Vajra Pestle is at stake!" Su Afu replied sorrowfully.


    "You fool! You gambled with the Vajra Pestle I gave you? Don''t you know that''s a celestial artifact?" the elder scolded angrily.


    "Grandfather, I won''t do it again," Su Afu pleaded, realizing he had misspoken. He quickly adopted a pitiful expression and nced at Hongxiao for support. But with the elder''s fury, Hongxiao pretended not to notice.


    "How did you get out? You were supposed to stay in the eighteenth level of hell for half a month!" the elder demanded.


    "Uh, everyone was broken out. If I stayed there alone, it would be disgraceful. I can ignore my own face, but not the reputation of the Su family!" Su Afu replied with a pitiful look.


    "What do you mean everyone was broken out?" the elder asked, raising an eyebrow.


    Seeing the elder''s interest, Su Afu became animated.


    "Grandfather, you wouldn''t believe it. It was incredible! Yesterday, a man arrived in the eighteenth level of hell, near my cell. Today, he suddenly broke out, freeing a million prisoners! They all escaped! It was thrilling, so exciting, so gutsy!" Su Afu eximed excitedly.


    "Is that true?" the elder asked, incredulous.


    "Of course! Haven''t you seen the chaos at Qingqiu Great Prison?" Su Afu confirmed confidently.


    The elder and Hongxiao exchanged a look.


    "Marshal Su, when I secretly visited Young Master Afu yesterday, I heard that someone was sent to the eighteenth level of hell. It seems to have been the Great Zheng Holy King, Zhong Shan!" Hongxiao reported immediately.


    "What? That man was Zhong Shan? It was him?" Su Afu shouted in astonishment.

 Chapter 846: The Chess Soul Selection

    <h4>Chapter 846: The Chess Soul Selection</h4>


    In the center of Qingqiu Holy Capital stood the tallest mountain, Qingqiu Mountain. At its peak, swirling clouds of fortune roared ceaselessly, housing the celestial court of the Taichu Holy Court and its divine ministers. This mountain was the seat of the Taichu Holy Court and the residence of the Taichu Holy King.


    Inside the study of the Taichu Holy King:


    The Taichu Holy King sat behind a white jade desk, with a group of close ministers standing before him. Leading them was ''Mr. Li,'' who had apanied the Holy King to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    The Taichu Holy King, reading a memorial, suddenly spoke, "Mr. Li, has the emissary been sent off?"


    "Yes, he was sent off two days ago. Daoist Feng Xingyun from the Serpent Queen''s dojo came in person. This matter is of great importance!" Mr. Li replied, frowning.


    "Feng Xingyun? Knowing the Serpent Queen sent him, I expected this to be significant. We should prepare in advance. Any disciples of the Kong family who arrive in the Fengzhong Domain are to be killed without mercy!" the Taichu Holy Kingmanded.


    "Understood!" the ministers responded in unison.


    "Smack!"


    The Taichu Holy King closed the memorial in his hands.


    "Is this the information you gathered on Zhong Shan?" he asked, holding up the document.


    "Yes, this Zhong Shan is no ordinary man. Although his cultivation is not high, his methods are astounding. In the Lesser Thousand World, he almost always triumphed. One or two victories could be luck, but he has never failed in hundreds of years. His intelligence, strategies, and tactics are extraordinary," Mr. Li confirmed with a frown.


    "Holy King, is he too strong?" a close aide asked, frowning.


    "Anyone who bes a Holy King is strong," Mr. Li shook his head.


    "Holy King, do you intend to recruit Zhong Shan?" another minister inquired.


    "I have my ns for Zhong Shan," the Taichu Holy King said solemnly.


    "Understood!" the ministers nodded.


    "Holy King, did you hand Zhong Shan over to Sima Zongheng to curb his arrogance?" Mr. Li asked.


    "Indeed. I saw his arrogance when I was in the Great Zheng. He faced 231 great immortals with calm arrogance. Since he is here as a hostage, that arrogance must be tempered. Letting Sima Zongheng handle him will serve that purpose," the Taichu Holy King exined.


    "But Holy King, I heard that Zhong Shan was thrown into the eighteenth level of hell by the Sima family right after arriving in Qingqiu," Mr. Li said calmly.


    "The eighteenth level of hell?" the Taichu Holy King said, his expression serious.


    "Yes, letting Sima Zongheng vent his anger is one thing, but it seems he has gone a bit too far," Mr. Li said gravely.


    The Taichu Holy King fell silent for a moment.


    "Reporting to the Holy King!" a loud voice suddenly called from outside the study.


    "Come in!" the Taichu Holy King said, puzzled.


    The close ministers looked towards the door with concern. No one should disturb the Holy King without significant cause.


    A court official quickly entered and knelt, "Holy King, there''s been a major incident at Qingqiu Great Prison. A million prisoners have escaped, and a fierce demon is seizing control of the eighteenth level of hell. The armies of Qingqiu are mobilizing to capture the fugitives."


    "Absurd!" the Taichu Holy King roared.


    "Holy King!" The ministers all turned to the Taichu Holy King.


    The Taichu Holy King stood up, his wide sleeves flowing as he exited the study, the ministers following closely behind.


    Outside, the Taichu Holy King looked towards the distant Qingqiu Great Prison. The once-imposing structure was now a scene of chaos, with ck and green lights shing in a tumultuous disy. The massive breakout had turned Qingqiu Holy Capital into a battlefield, and the Holy King knew this was just the beginning of a muchrger crisis.


    In the distance, the dazzling lights of the impact made the area resemble a radiant sun. Above this sun, ck qi billowed, creating a scene of chaos. Strong cultivators were flying all around Qingqiu, hunting down the escaping prisoners.


    "Holy King, it''s true! There''s indeed a fierce demon attacking, trying to seize the eighteenth level of hell!" the official continued to shout aftering out.


    "Silence!" Mr. Li barked.


    "Uh!" The official was confused.


    "The eighteenth level of hell is connected to the grand formations of Qingqiu. Any attempt to seize it would trigger attacks from these formations. Even moving it away would cause the formations to respond. The fact that the formations remain inactive means the eighteenth level of hell is untouched!" Mr. Li exined.


    "Uh!"


    "You mentioned a million prisoners escaped?" Mr. Li asked sternly.


    "Yes, we caught one, and he said all the prisoners have fled. The eighteenth level of hell is now empty!" the official reported.


    "This is bad. Zhong Shan is in the eighteenth level of hell. Holy King, this matter requires��" another close minister''s face turned pale.


    "Find him!" the Taichu Holy King ordered.


    "Yes, sir!"��


    With the million prisoners causing chaos, the entire focus of Qingqiu was on capturing the fugitives. Meanwhile, Zhong Shan effortlessly made his way out.


    Zhong Shan did not choose to flee Qingqiu Holy Capital. As a representative of the Great Zheng Holy Court and a hostage, his escape would bring disaster to the Great Zheng. He also knew the Taichu Holy King would anticipate he wouldn''t leave, so it was only a matter of time before they found him.


    Qingqiu Holy Capital''s center was undoubtedly Qingqiu Mountain, the location of the Taichu Pce.


    Zhong Shan headed straight for Qingqiu Mountain. The most dangerous ce is often the safest, the most obvious ce the hardest to find.


    Soon, he arrived at the base of Qingqiu Mountain, surrounded by bustling market areas. Zhong Shan entered one of these areas.


    Qingqiu Holy Capital was vast. The chaos at Qingqiu Great Prison had not significantly impacted this part of the city. The buildings were grand and majestic.


    As Zhong Shan admired Qingqiu''s architecture, he skillfully located an area of interest.


    Erqi Square, the Chess Soul Selection!


    Chess Soul Selection?


    Zhong Shan was slightly surprised. The Taichu Holy Court had such refined interests? An actual Go tournament? Was this real?


    Curious, Zhong Shan headed towards Erqi Square.


    Erqi Square wasrge, with about five to six thousand people gathered there, most dressed in schrly attire, participating in the Chess Soul Selection.


    While waiting for the Taichu Holy King to find him, Zhong Shan decided to pass the time here. It wasn''t the right moment for cultivation, and he wasn''t in the mood for leisure activities.


    Chess Soul Selection?


    Zhong Shan stepped into Erqi Square, nning to spend the next few days here.


    Besides the participants, there were also officials managing the Chess Soul Selection.


    In the center of the square were a hundred Go tables, with two hundred people ying. Many others watched. Strangely, each person held a peculiar small folding fan. Intrigued, Zhong Shan walked over to take a closer look.


    "Wait, is this your first time participating in the Chess Soul Selection?" an official approached Zhong Shan and asked.


    "Oh? Yes, it is," Zhong Shan replied.


    "To participate in the Chess Soul Selection, you must first solve ten endgame puzzles. Only after solving them can you qualify for the Chess Soul Selection. After that, you need to achieve a hundred consecutive victories to qualify for the ''Chess Soul Duel'' at Yunhai Mountain," the official exined.


    A hundred consecutive victories? Zhong Shan was slightly surprised. A hundred consecutive victories meant winning a hundred matches in a row without a single loss.


    Zhong Shan wasn''t particrly concerned about the Chess Soul Duel. He was mainly here to pass the time and find some amusement.


    "Alright, how do I solve the puzzles?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Follow me!" The official was quite responsible.


    Soon, Zhong Shan was led to the edge of the square, where many tables were set up. About a dozen officials were waiting idly.


    "Hey, Lao San, another neer? It''s been ten years since we''ve had a neer, hasn''t it?" one officialughed.


    "The Chess Soul Selection has been going on for a hundred years. Those who qualify have already participated. But it''s nice to see a neer," another officialughed.


    "Alright, Lao Liu, as usual, draw ten endgame puzzles!" the official apanying Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Got it!"


    One of the officials quickly took out a small jade mountain with nearly two thousand square jade tes. The official randomly selected ten tes and put the rest away.


    The ten jade tes wereid t. Each jade te had a Go board pattern with many pieces already ced, as if the game was halfway through.


    "You y as ck. ce your piece on the board, and the board will automatically disy your move," the official exined.


    Zhong Shan nodded and stepped forward.


    Looking at the first endgame puzzle, Zhong Shan smiled. He pointed to the board, and immediately a ck piece appeared on the board. At the same time, a white piece also appeared, clearly prearranged by the puzzle''s creator.


    Although Zhong Shan cultivated the Dao of the Emperor, he was also familiar with Go. Go emphasized strategy andyout, and Zhong Shan was a master strategist. His chess skills were not as exceptional as Nangong Sheng''s, but few in the Great Zheng could surpass him.


    Zhong Shan continued cing his pieces.


    "Lao San, is he really ying Go? He''s so fast! Is he just messing around?" an official remarked, puzzled by Zhong Shan''s speed.


    "Poof!"


    At that moment, Zhong Shan''s board emitted a puff of green smoke.


    "He solved it?"


    "So quickly?"


    "Is this for real?"


    The officials were filled with astonishment.


    Ignoring them, Zhong Shan proceeded to the second puzzle.


    "Poof!" "Poof!" "Poof!"...


    One after another, the puzzles were solved. The officials watched in amazement.


    "A master!"


    When Zhong Shan solved thest puzzle, the officials couldn''t help but regard him as a master.


    "This is your foldable que! With this, you can participate in the Chess Soul Selection," the official called Lao San said, handing Zhong Shan a small foldable item.


    Zhong Shan took it and gently unfolded it. It resembled a folding fan but was clearly a magical artifact, with arge ''zero'' inscribed on it.


    "Before ying, ce the que in the slot on the table. When you win a game, it will record your victory. Each win adds a number, but a single loss resets it to zero," Lao San exined.


    "Thank you!"


    Zhong Shan nodded and stepped towards the game area.


    The hundred Go tables were surrounded by many yers, who were not only waiting to y but also observing the games. Watching others y could improve their own skills and enhance their understanding.


    Among the hundred tables, one had thergest crowd. As Zhong Shan approached, a loud voice suddenly called out from that area.


    "Sima Qianjun, ny-nine consecutive victories!"

 Chapter 847: Nine Tails

    <h4>Chapter 847: Nine Tails</h4>


    "Sima Qianjun, ny-nine consecutive victories!"


    Ny-nine consecutive victories? The surrounding chess yers were abuzz with excitement.


    Achieving a hundred consecutive victories might seem easy, but in reality, it was incredibly difficult. After all, those participating in the Chess Soul Selection were no amateurs; the ten endgame puzzles had already weeded out anyone but true masters of the game.


    Sima Qianjun? Sima? Zhong Shan pondered the name.


    "How dare you! Didn''t you say you could win? How did you lose?" a woman''s angry voice rang out from the crowd.


    The woman was evidently furious.


    "Princess, Lord Sima''s chess skills have reached the level of ''artistic conception.'' I am no match for him!" a man''s voice replied, filled with frustration.


    "Then what use are you? You boasted about your chess skills, so I had the Holy King grant you a ''middle position'' in the heavens and earth. Why do I keep you as a retainer? What''s the use of having you? I''m so angry, so angry!" the woman''s voice seethed with rage.


    At this point, Zhong Shan squeezed through the crowd and saw the so-called princess.


    She was an extraordinarily beautiful woman dressed in fiery red, with a seductive fox-like appearance��her eyes, lips, ears, and nose all had an enchanting, foxy charm. The moment Zhong Shan saw her, he immediately thought of the term "fox spirit."


    Among the people Zhong Shan knew, only N�� Qinghui could possibly rival her in beauty.


    She was a national cmity, an absolute beauty that could topple kingdoms��a mesmerizing fox enchantress.


    She was so stunning that many of the self-righteous chess yers had their attention entirely captivated by her, all staring at the woman in red.


    In Qingqiu, and of many fox spirits, beautiful women and handsome men were plentiful. But none couldpare to her.


    The looks of these supposedly upright chess yers spoke volumes.


    "Princess, it''s not my fault. Lord Sima has reached the ''artistic conception'' in chess. I simply cannot defeat him!" a man in green, looking dejected, exined.


    "Cannot defeat him? What did you tell me before? You imed to be my foremost retainer? Is this all you''re worth? Get lost, get out!" The princess kicked him in frustration.


    The man didn''t dare say another word and hurriedly fled.


    "I''m so angry!" the princess fumed, cing her hands on her hips.


    Despite her temper, her beauty made even her anger a delightful sight. Every frown and smile stirred endless fantasies in those watching.


    On the other side of the chessboard sat an extremely handsome man.


    With long, flowing green hair and a self-satisfied expression, the man had a hint of possessiveness in his eyes as he looked at the princess. This must be Sima Qianjun, whom the crowd had cheered for.


    "Ninth Princess? Your retainers aren''t that impressive," Sima Qianjun sneered, a hint of mischief in his voice.


    "Hmph, don''t get too cocky. There are many in Qingqiu who have reached the level of artistic conception," the Ninth Princess retorted coldly.


    "But I''m about to achieve a hundred victories. I''ll soon qualify to enter Yunhai, while your Ninth Princess Mansion doesn''t even qualify to go!" Sima Qianjun taunted.


    In Sima Qianjun''s mind, women shouldn''t always be ttered. He believed in asionally putting them down to assert his strength and dominance. He had long set his sights on this prickly, top-notch flower of Qingqiu. Determined to conquer her, he knew there was no second woman like her, even in Qingqiu.


    "You! Until you win a hundred matches in a day, don''t boast in front of me!" the Ninth Princess snapped angrily.


    "Is there anyone else who dares to challenge?" Sima Qianjun scanned the crowd.


    Having reached the artistic conception in Go, Sima Qianjun was a daunting opponent. Achieving a hundred consecutive victories was a monumental task, and no one wanted to risk losing and having their score reset to zero.


    "Is anyone brave enough?" Sima Qianjun''s eyes glinted as he red at the crowd.


    The chess yers took a step back. Who would dare challenge an expert who had reached the artistic conception? The true masters had already qualified decades ago. Only Sima Qianjun, who had recently achieved this level, was now dominating the scene.


    "If no one steps forward, I will choose my opponent. If I point at you, you must y against me. Otherwise, you will face my wrath!" Sima Qianjun threatened.


    The chess yers were dismayed, regrettinging to watch the match. No one wanted to provoke Sima Qianjun, an important young master of the Sima family.


    As tension filled the air, a voice broke the silence.


    "Sima Qianjun?" Zhong Shan called out calmly.


    "Who dares?" Sima Qianjun''s eyes narrowed.


    "I will challenge you," Zhong Shan stepped forward.


    Seeing someone step up, the chess yers made way for Zhong Shan, relieved that someone else had volunteered.


    The Ninth Princess looked at Zhong Shan with curiosity.


    "Who are you?" Sima Qianjun asked dismissively.


    "The one who will defeat you," Zhong Shan replied directly.


    "Good! Defeat him," the Ninth Princess immediately encouraged.


    "Hmph, such arrogance. Be careful not to bite your tongue!" Sima Qianjun sneered.


    "Whether or not I bite my tongue is not for you to decide," Zhong Shan said as he approached the board.


    Zhong Shan''s demeanor wasposed, but the onlookers doubted his chances. Calmness alone wouldn''t suffice against someone who had reached the artistic conception in Go. Reaching this level meant mastering the highest peaks of the game.


    Zhong Shan sat down, ncing at the Go board. His eyes showed understanding; Sima Qianjun was indeed a formidable opponent.


    However, facing such a skilled adversary only made the challenge more satisfying for Zhong Shan.


    "If you want to die, thene on!" Sima Qianjun smirked.


    Sima Qianjun ced his foldable que in the slot on the board, and the numbers ''99'' slowly appeared.


    Zhong Shan ced his own que in the slot, and the board disyed a single word that stunned everyone.


    Zero!


    Zero? Could it be more exaggerated? The crowd mentallybeled Zhong Shan as doomed.


    The Ninth Princess looked frustrated but nced at Sima Qianjun with hatred, hoping to see him defeated.


    Sima Qianjun waved his sleeve, and the pieces were divided. Sima Qianjun yed white, and Zhong Shan yed ck.


    "Zero? Hahaha, and you think you can challenge me? I''ll let you go first!" Sima Qianjun said disdainfully.


    "I ept your generosity," Zhong Shan replied, not backing down.


    Holding a ck piece between his index and middle fingers, Zhong Shan carefully ced it on the board with a decisive move.


    "Snap!"


    Zhong Shan''s ck stonended on the board, leaving everyone stunned.


    "Center point? He ced his first stone on the center point?" a chess yer eximed.


    Everyone looked and confirmed that Zhong Shan had indeed ced his first stone on the center point, the unique central star point of the board.


    "Why did he ce his first stone on the center point? Is he crazy?"


    "The first move should establish a strategic position, but cing it on the center point wastes it. Does he even know how to y?"


    "He''s lost his mind. No one dares to ce the first stone on the center point. He''s definitely going to lose!"


    The chess yers around them began criticizing Zhong Shan, but he remained unmoved.


    "Center point? Are you deliberately giving me a handicap or already admitting defeat?" Sima Qianjun sneered.


    "I always ce my first stone on the center point," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    This was true. Whenever Zhong Shan yed against Nangong Sheng, his first stone always went on the center point, the most central star point on the board. He never ced it elsewhere.


    This was because Zhong Shan yed "Emperor''s Chess," where the first move was called "Ruling the World."


    The center point was always the first move.


    "Hmph, if you want to die, I won''t stop you!" Sima Qianjun sneered.


    "Snap!" Sima Qianjun ced his stone.


    "Snap, snap, snap!"


    The two took turns cing their stones, but everyone doubted Zhong Shan. His moves were too unconventional. ording to logic, Zhong Shan should counter Sima Qianjun''s moves, but he seemed to be ying his own game, only asionally responding to Sima Qianjun.


    As Sima Qianjun ced his thirtieth stone, he upied several advantageous positions, appearing to have the upper hand. He sneered at Zhong Shan, "It''s your move. I can''t believe someone so ipetent managed to get a foldable que!"


    Zhong Shan didn''t reply, instead pausing mid-air with a ck stone before cing it with precision.


    As he ced the stone, a faint breeze seemed to emanate from the board.


    The subtle breeze gave everyone a sudden shiver as Zhong Shan ced his stone.


    "Snap!"


    The sound of the stone hitting the board seemed to resonate in everyone''s hearts, almost as if they saw a surge of purple energy emerging from Zhong Shan''s move.


    Many people shook their heads, thinking they were seeing things.


    The Emperor''s Chess brought forth the Emperor''s Purple Qi! Zhong Shan''s move shifted the game dramatically.


    The board''s dynamics changed instantly. What seemed like Sima Qianjun''s certain victory now looked like a looming defeat.


    The board appeared as if the ck stones were dominating over the white stones.


    "Excellent move!" Sima Qianjun said bitterly.


    Sima Qianjun had underestimated his opponent. He realized Zhong Shan was no novice but a true master of strategy.


    "Snap!"


    "Snap!"


    They continued cing their stones, but with each move, Sima Qianjun''s forehead beaded with sweat.


    "The center point? That stone can support moves in all directions?"


    "No, that center point stone acts like amander, ruling over the board. Its presence means the white stones can never recover!"


    "Amazing, unbelievable! That center point move was a stroke of genius. With it, Sima Qianjun is doomed to lose. He has no chance of winning!"


    The onlookers eximed in admiration.


    Sima Qianjun felt the pressure. His moves seemed to invite a thousand spears stabbing at his heart. Each move brought him closer to despair. The board was now Zhong Shan''s domain, and Sima Qianjun was merely a pawn being systematically dismantled.


    Why is this happening? Why? Sima Qianjun felt like he was losing his mind. The humiliation of being dominated was unbearable.


    He couldn''t lose. He was so close to a hundred consecutive victories. If he lost, his score would reset to zero. He couldn''t let that happen. His strong will forced him to endure the humiliation.


    But as he watched his white stones being captured one by one, he realized that no matter what he did, his game was beyond saving.


    "Snap!" Zhong Shan ced his final stone.


    "You lost," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    With that move, Sima Qianjun saw his defeat. His white stones, once dominant, now seemed blood-stained and defeated.


    "Look, what''s that?" a chess yer shouted.


    Everyone looked closely at the board. To their astonishment, Zhong Shan''s ck stones had formed two words amidst the white stones, words that only became clear after the game had ended.


    Too weak!


    ''Too weak''? Was this a deliberate insult to Sima Qianjun?


    Everyone was dumbfounded.

 Chapter 848: The Emperor鈥檚 Chess

    <h4>Chapter 848: The Emperor''s Chess</h4>


    Everyone was stunned. Seeing the words "Too Weak" formed by the ck stones on the board, it felt surreal. Was this person really ying Go?


    Sima Qianjun was an expert who had reached the level of artistic conception. To be defeated so thoroughly, and then to see that Zhong Shan''s stones had formed those two words, was a crushing blow.


    It wasn''t just about defeating Sima Qianjun in Go; it was about utterly humiliating him, reducing his confidence to rubble.


    In just one hour, Sima Qianjun''s clothes were drenched in sweat. The game had been intense and harrowing.


    "What... what do you mean by this?" Sima Qianjun stammered angrily, finallying to his senses.


    "You lost," Zhong Shan replied calmly.


    The Emperor''s Chess, unique to the Great Zheng Holy Court, was something Zhong Shan had honed with Nangong Sheng, a master strategist. Nangong Sheng, who had once set up a "Heavenly Tribtion" array in a game against Ye Qingcheng, was no ordinary opponent. His role as the chief of the Yitian Supervisor was to y Go with Zhong Shan, helping to refine Zhong Shan''s already formidable skills. Zhong Shan''s strategic prowess made his chess unparalleled, and frequent matches with Nangong Sheng had further sharpened his abilities.


    Sima Qianjun? Just by observing the endgame left by Sima Qianjun and his previous opponents, Zhong Shan had deciphered his strategy.


    Artistic conception? Zhong Shan had reached that level long ago, even as a mortal. Now, it was second nature to him.


    "Excellent game! You''re incredible. I want to keep you!" the Ninth Princess eximed excitedly.


    Keep me? Even with Zhong Shan''sposed demeanor, he nearly fell off his chair.


    Steadying himself, Zhong Shan broke into a slight cold sweat.


    The seductive nce from the fox-like eyes of the Ninth Princess seemed to captivate all the surrounding chess yers, leaving them mesmerized.


    Ignoring the Ninth Princess, Zhong Shan focused on his foldable que.


    The ''zero'' slowly changed to ''one.''


    Having lost to Zhong Shan and being humiliated by the words "Too Weak," Sima Qianjun was already furious. Now, seeing the Ninth Princess wanting to keep Zhong Shan made him even angrier.


    "You bastard! I want a rematch!" Sima Qianjun roared.


    His shout drew everyone''s attention.


    "Sima Qianjun, you are a defeated general. Do you really want to be humiliated again? Pathetic!" The Ninth Princess, in a great mood, mercilessly mocked him.


    Sima Qianjun red at the Ninth Princess, then turned to Zhong Shan. "Will you y or not?"


    Zhong Shan remainedposed and said calmly, "I believe the rule here is that the defeated must wait for others to challenge the winner before they can request another match."


    "Hmph! Who wants to challenge him? Anyone?" Sima Qianjun asked, ring at the surrounding chess yers.


    "No!" "No one!"


    Fearing Sima Qianjun''s wrath, everyone shook their heads.


    "Fine, no one else is challenging. It''s just the two of us. Let''s continue!" Sima Qianjun demanded.


    Sima Qianjun attributed his previous defeat to underestimating Zhong Shan. He believed he had been too careless and was determined not to make the same mistake again.


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly and said, "Very well."


    Sima Qianjun was irritated by Zhong Shan''s calm demeanor, but there was no useining. He needed to defeat Zhong Shan in chess to regain his honor.


    With a wave of his sleeve, the ck and white stones returned to their bowls.


    "You went firstst time, so it''s my turn now!" Sima Qianjun dered.


    "Not so fast. There are rules in chess. You forfeited your turn to go firstst game. That doesn''t mean I have to let you go first now," Zhong Shan replied firmly.


    "Yes, Sima Qianjun, just because you were foolish doesn''t mean others will be," the Ninth Princess taunted.


    Sima Qianjun''s face alternated between pale and flushed as he nced at the Ninth Princess.


    "Let''s draw lots," Zhong Shan suggested calmly.


    Sima Qianjun seemed destined for bad luck today; Zhong Shan won the draw again.


    "Again with the center point?"


    "Is he ying the same old game?"


    "That can''t be right. Repeating the same moves? Isn''t that just revealing his strategy?"


    "But did you understand his strategy the first time?"


    The crowd watched in amazement, discussing among themselves, their eyes fixed on the board.


    "Snap, snap, snap!"


    Zhong Shan indeed repeated his previous strategy, though with slight variations in the order of his moves. Even so, the overallyout remained almost identical, and once again, he pushed Sima Qianjun back step by step.


    The sweat on Sima Qianjun''s brow returned. His face flushed red as he felt as though he was being subjected to a thousand cuts, a feeling of intense frustration and helplessness.


    Every move felt like walking towards his execution, while every move Zhong Shan made felt like an executioner''s strike.


    Each glimmer of hope Sima Qianjun saw was quickly turned into a deadly trap by Zhong Shan.


    Without reaching the level of artistic conception, one could never truly appreciate the subtle effects of ''intention'' in Go.


    "You lost," Zhong Shan dered, cing the final stone.


    Sima Qianjun''s face was beet red with frustration. His eyes were bloodshot as he red at Zhong Shan.


    On the board, two more words formed from Zhong Shan''s ck stones.


    The same!


    ''The same'' as ''too weak''?


    Everyone was astonished. It was clear now that this chess match was more than just a game.


    "Kid, do you know who I am? How dare you humiliate me repeatedly? Are you looking for death?" Sima Qianjun stood up in anger.


    "Sometimes, you bring disgrace upon yourself," Zhong Shan replied bluntly.


    "You!" Sima Qianjun almost spat blood in his rage.


    "Sima Qianjun, you can''t win, so you want to use your status? Is that all the Sima family is good for?" the Ninth Princess mocked.


    ring at the Ninth Princess, Sima Qianjun took a deep breath and said, "Again!"


    "You''re not my opponent. Stop embarrassing yourself," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    "No, one more game!" Sima Qianjun roared.


    The surrounding chess yers didn''t dare to provoke the Sima family.


    "Don''t regret it," Zhong Shan replied with aposed smile.


    The third game began. This time, Sima Qianjun was lucky enough to go first.


    But going first made no difference. Zhong Shan''s skill level was far beyond Sima Qianjun''s. Another game would yield the same result.


    "Snap, snap, snap!"


    The game proceeded, and once again, Sima Qianjun found himself overwhelmed by Zhong Shan''s superior strategy. His attempts to gain the upper hand were thwarted at every turn.


    Finally, Zhong Shan ced thest stone. "You lost again," he said calmly.


    Sima Qianjun''s face turned ashen. The words formed by Zhong Shan''s stones this time read:


    Too predictable!


    The crowd watched in awe, realizing that Zhong Shan''s mastery of the game was far beyond anything they had witnessed before.


    Despite being a brilliant prodigy of the Sima family, Sima Qianjun managed to suppress his rage, refocus, and improve his game. However, no amount of improvement could help him escape Zhong Shan''s grasp.


    As night fell, Sima Qianjun pondered every move carefully, slowing down with each step. By midnight, he was holding a white stone, staring at the board, unable to make a move.


    He remained frozen like that until the first rays of the morning sun illuminated the board. At that moment, Sima Qianjun finally saw the entirety of the gameid before him.


    The white stone he had been holding fell onto the board with a tter. In that moment, he saw the two words Zhong Shan had formed overnight.


    "Idiot."


    Those two words had been meticulously arranged the previous night. Sima Qianjun realized he had been staring at the board, contemting his moves all night, like an idiot.


    When the white stone fell, the onlookers knew Sima Qianjun had lost. They, too, noticed the words on the board.


    "Idiot?"


    The chess yers were dumbfounded. Who was this person capable of such a feat?


    "You bastard! No one has ever dared to humiliate me, Sima Qianjun, or look down on the Sima family. You are courting death!" Sima Qianjun could no longer contain his fury.


    After a day and night of mental torment, Sima Qianjun seemed almost deranged, consumed by rage.


    Humiliation. The person before him was deliberately humiliating him. Sima Qianjun finally understood.


    Seeking death? No one had ever dared to toy with him.


    "Sima Qianjun, what are you doing? Can''t handle losing?" The Ninth Princess, having watched the entire ordeal, was thoroughly enjoying herself.


    Ignoring the Ninth Princess, Sima Qianjun yelled, "Men,e here!"


    His shout echoed through the bustling market below.


    "Isn''t that the young master''s voice?" someone in a nearby building paused their actions.


    In an instant, nearly a hundred figures flew out from the market, all strong warriors from the Sima family converging on the square.


    "Bang! Bang! Bang!" One by one, powerful figuresnded, exuding an overwhelming aura.


    "What are you doing? Sima Qianjun, are you really such a sore loser? As long as I''m here, no one is allowed to touch him!" the Ninth Princess yelled angrily.


    "In Qingqiu, there''s no one my Sima family can''t deal with. Ninth Princess, step aside. Everyone else, take him down. I want him to know what it feels like to be tormented," Sima Qianjun ordered coldly.


    "Who dares to move? I''ll have the Holy King exterminate your entire n!" The Ninth Princess''s eyes shed coldly.


    Her words were indeed domineering, causing the Sima family subordinates to hesitate.


    Zhong Shan remained calm, smiling faintly. "Torment me? In Qingqiu, not even the head of the Sima family would dare say that to me."


    Zhong Shan''s words left everyone stunned, including the Ninth Princess, who looked at him with a puzzled expression. The local aristocracy of Qingqiu, though not fully informed, knew enough to recognize that this man in ck was clearly an outsider.


    "Hahaha! Do you think you''re someone special? Seize him! I guarantee your safety," Sima Qianjun shouted, half-crazed.


    "Yes!" the subordinates responded, ready to act.


    As the hundred subordinates prepared to charge, Zhong Shanughed.


    "I said, do you think you can torment me?"


    With Zhong Shan''s mockingughter, powerful figures began descending from the sky. High-ranking and influential figures of Qingqiu arrived one after another. From the west, tens of thousands of soldiers suddenlynded in the square.


    Amidst the mor of weapons, nearly ten grand elders of the Taichu Holy Court descended from the sky, surrounding Zhong Shan.


    The advancing subordinates of Sima Qianjun stopped in their tracks, quickly retracting their weapons in fear and stepping back in terror.


    Sima Qianjun was dumbfounded, the Ninth Princess was dumbfounded, and the chess yers were collectively dumbfounded. What was going on?

 Chapter 849: The Enchantress Nine Tails

    <h4>Chapter 849: The Enchantress Nine Tails</h4>


    The chaos at Qingqiu Prison attracted more and more powerful individuals. The defensive formations around such an important location were incredibly strong. Even for a group of celestial beings, breaking through these formations was no easy task.


    The Taichu Holy Court had vast resources. Under Sima Zongheng''s leadership, ten celestial beings worked tirelessly for an entire day to breach the formation. Once they seeded, they faced the "Zhoutian World" formation based on the Eighteenth Layer of Hell. It took them another half day to break through this secondary formation.


    Without a host to maintain the formations, they were bound to be broken eventually. The fact that theysted over a day was already impressive.


    As the formations fell, the Eighteenth Layer of Helly exposed before everyone. Sima Zongheng stepped inside. He had arranged for Zhong Shan to be confined here, only to find a disaster had unfolded within a day. Zhong Shan had be a major problem.


    "Search everywhere. See if there are any survivors!" Sima Zongheng ordered coldly.


    "Yes, sir!"


    Arge number of powerful individuals scoured Qingqiu Prison, quickly gathering all the survivors, most of whom were unconscious.


    Four captains were dragged in front of Sima Zongheng and thrown to the ground, jolting them awake. As they looked around, memories of the previous day flooded back.


    Sima Zongheng held the five keys to the Eighteenth Layer of Hell, ring at the four captains.


    "Five captains? Where is the fifth? Do you not realize you''vemitted a capital offense?" Sima Zongheng''s eyes were icy.


    "Spare us, sir! We were all deceived by that traitor Sima Sanliang. He tricked us into handing over our keys, causing this massive breach. Please, spare us!" the four captains pleaded in terror.


    "You were entrusted with the keys. Letting them out of your hands is dereliction of duty. I don''t care about your excuses. Tell me everything that happened that day, down to the smallest detail!" Sima Zongheng demanded.


    "Yes, yes, sir!" The four captains, trembling with fear, began recounting the events of the previous day.


    "That day, Sima Sanliang had Zhong Shan thrown into the Eighteenth Layer of Hell. Then he invited us to drink, and afterward..."


    While Qingqiu Prison was investigating the culpability, Sima Sanliang had vanished.


    Sima Sanliang did not disappear during the breach. He had fled as soon as he heard about the mass escape orchestrated by Zhong Shan. Knowing the situation was dire, he realized he had caused a major disaster.


    Since the outer formations did not respond, it indicated that no one had attacked the Eighteenth Layer of Hell directly. This left only one possibility: the five keys. The thought sent chills through Sima Sanliang.


    Regardless of the oue, the five captains were in deep trouble. And he was the one who tricked them into giving up the keys.


    Realizing this, Sima Sanliang didn''t stay to help the wardens but immediately left Qingqiu Prison. He didn''t attempt to escape the territory, knowing there was nowhere he could hide.


    Instead, he headed to a private residence in Qingqiu and knelt outside a grand hall.


    For a whole day, he knelt there, feeling the presence of powerful individuals moving about. His heart sank deeper and deeper.


    On the second day, the doors to the grand hall finally opened.


    "Madam, please save me!" Sima Sanliang pleaded in fear.


    "Save you? Fool!" the noblewoman inside the hall said coldly.


    "Madam, I only caused this mess because of you. I was avenging the Third Young Master when I sent people after Zhong Shan. Who could have known things would turn out this way? Madam!" Sima Sanliang cried out.


    He had hoped to gain a promotion through this scheme, but now it seemed even keeping his life was uncertain.


    "The trouble you''ve caused is far too great. If you had seeded in disabling Zhong Shan, I might have been able to help you. But you didn''t even manage to harm a single hair on his head. How can I help you now?" the noblewoman said sternly.


    Sima Sanliang, who had been on the brink of despair, suddenly brightened at the noblewoman''s words. "Madam, I will go and cripple Zhong Shan immediately. I will avenge the Third Young Master!"


    "Do you think you can?" the noblewoman asked coldly.


    "I can, I definitely can. I will cripple Zhong Shan for sure and avenge the Third Young Master!" Sima Sanliang swore with determination.


    "Take this ''Immortal Protection Pill'' for your protection. You might find it useful," the noblewoman said nonchntly.


    A golden pill flew out from the hall, and Sima Sanliang caught it with a gleam of excitement in his eyes.


    "Thank you, madam, thank you!" Sima Sanliang expressed his gratitude fervently before quickly leaving the residence and disappearing into the crowd.


    As soon as Sima Sanliang left, another voice emerged from within the hall.


    "Madam, are you really going to help him?"


    "Help him? Why would I help a mere servant?" the noblewoman replied disdainfully.


    <strong>Two Chess za</strong>


    Just as Sima Qianjun was about to have his subordinates capture Zhong Shan, arge group of powerful individuals descended from the sky.


    Nearly ten celestial beings from the Taichu Holy Court, along with tens of thousands of soldiers,nded in the za.


    In an instant, the once-spacious za became crowded with a menacing presence. All eyes were on Zhong Shan in the center.


    Sima Qianjun was stunned by the sudden appearance of the army.


    Celestial beings, ten celestial officials descended from the sky? Or rather, from the top of Qingqiu Mountain? And they were all surrounding the man in ck?


    Was this a joke? He had called a hundred thugs, and in response, tens of thousands of soldiers and ten celestial beings had appeared? This was absurd. There was no way to fight now.


    Leading the group was none other than Mr. Li, a close aide to the Taichu Holy King. He was here too?


    Who was this person? Had his day and night of humiliation been for nothing?


    The chess yers were just as bewildered, watching Zhong Shan with incredulous eyes. What was happening?


    The Ninth Princess stared at Zhong Shan, her eyes full of curiosity.


    "The Holy King of Dazhuang seems to be quite rxed, making it difficult for us to find him," Mr. Li said with a faint smile.


    The Holy King of Dazhuang? The chess yers almost dropped their jaws in shock. This was the infamous Death-Fated Holy King, Zhong Shan? What was he doing here?


    Sima Qianjun''s rage grew even more intense. It was him?


    The Ninth Princess''s eyes flickered as if she were hatching some mischievous n.


    "With thex security at Qingqiu Prison, I decided to take a stroll. Finding this elegant spot at the foot of Qingqiu Mountain was quite a treat. I''ve been waiting for you," Zhong Shan replied with a calm smile.


    "Indeed, there are few who can regard Qingqiu Prison so lightly as King Zhong. Our oversight has caused you inconvenience. As a vassal king of our court, you should stay in the Pce of Hostages. Shall I escort you there?" Mr. Li suggested, smiling.


    Mr. Li always spoke with a gentle tone, but there was an undeniable firmness in his words.


    "Very well. After ying a couple of games, I feel much better. Let''s go," Zhong Shan said, standing up calmly.


    "Please," Mr. Li gestured.


    Zhong Shan nodded and followed Mr. Li and the celestial beings away, while the tens of thousands of soldiers dispersed at a wave of a celestial being''s hand.


    Sima Qianjun clenched his fists, watching Zhong Shan leave. He didn''t have the courage to attack. Sima Qianjun might have been a privileged young master in Qingqiu, but he was nothingpared to the high-ranking officials of the court.


    Having been humiliated by Zhong Shan for an entire day and night without being able to do anything, Sima Qianjun was filled with hatred. The chess yers around him pointed and murmured among themselves.


    "No wonder he''s so formidable. A Holy King of Dazhuang is a genius no matter where he goes!"


    "King Zhong of Dazhuang? Such high-level chess skills."


    "No wonder I saw a trace of imperial purple aura on the chessboard. It all makes sense now!"


    "Ha, you''re just exaggerating!"


    As the crowd continued to discuss the day''s events, the Ninth Princess approached the chess table and took Zhong Shan''s folded card, which disyed the number "three."


    In a sh, the Ninth Princess, with her fox-like charm, disappeared.


    She returned to her residence on a floating ind. As she flew into the sky, she paused briefly upon seeing a chubby man flying with a pile of glowing treasures.


    "Su Afo, stop right there!" the Ninth Princess called out, flying towards him.


    Su Afo, who had bet with a group of young nobles on who would meet the ill-fated King Zhong Shan first, had bad luck. When Zhong Shan arrived in Qingqiu, Su Afo was thrown into the Eighteenth Layer of Hell by his grandfather. But fate is strange; Zhong Shan was also sent to the Eighteenth Layer of Hell that day.


    Su Afo ended up being the first to see Zhong Shan, despite his initial misfortune.


    He had gathered a collection of celestial treasures, including nes, bowls,rge knives, and long swords. Su Afo had struck it rich this time.


    Having just retrieved these treasures from the other young masters, Su Afo was in high spirits when he suddenly heard a voice that felt like a nightmare.


    "Little demoness?" Su Afo''s face instantly showed extreme fear.


    In Qingqiu, the most notorious of the young nobles was the Ninth Princess.


    In Su Afo''s eyes, this Ninth Princess was ''evil incarnate'' and ''tyrannical''. The young scions of Qingqiu had suffered at her hands many times but dared not offend her.


    The Ninth Princess seemed to have appeared out of nowhere, with no known parents, but enjoyed the favor of the Taichu Holy King. She could even rudely demand positions from the Taichu Holy King, who granted them without hesitation.


    Su Afo had inquired about the Ninth Princess from his family elder, but even he didn''t know her origins. He was only told never to offend her or face severe punishment.


    The Ninth Princess''s background was too mysterious, but her backing was immense. With the Taichu Holy King supporting her, no one dared to cross her, so they had to endure her bullying.


    "Oh, little ancestor, what brings you here?" Su Afo asked with a mournful expression.


    "This is my doorstep, you fool. What''s that you''re carrying? Glowing treasures, huh? Oh, aren''t those the celestial artifacts from that group of losers?" The Ninth Princess''s eyes lit up.


    Seeing the gleam in her eyes, Su Afo knew it was bad news. Oh no, the demoness had spotted his precious treasures. My poor treasures, he thought.

 Chapter 850: The Divine Realm

    <h4>Chapter 850: The Divine Realm</h4>


    The moment Su Afo saw the glint in the Ninth Princess''s eyes, he knew he was in trouble. Oh no, the enchantress had spotted his treasures. My poor treasures, hemented internally.


    "Princess, these... these are mine!" Su Afo said with a tearful expression, hugging the treasures closer to his chest.


    These were celestial artifacts, spiritual tools that couldn''t be stored in storage bracelets and hadn''t been refined yet. Su Afo was indeed unlucky. In Qingqiu, few could snatch things from him, but the Ninth Princess was one of those few exceptions. She could take things from him with impunity.


    "Nonsense, I recognize these celestial artifacts. Each of you losers had one. How did they all end up in your hands? Did you steal them? I''ll confiscate them as stolen goods!" the Ninth Princess dered.


    "Please, no, no, no. I didn''t steal them. We made a bet, and I won. I just got them," Su Afo hurriedly exined.


    "A bet? What kind of bet?"


    "It was about the ill-fated Holy King, Zhong Shan!" Su Afo quickly said.


    "Zhong Shan? Him again? What''s the story?" The Ninth Princess''s interest was piqued.


    "You wouldn''t believe it, Princess. Qingqiu is in chaos because of him. He released all the prisoners from the Eighteenth Layer of Hell," Su Afo exined.


    "Oh?" The Ninth Princess''s eyes lit up with excitement.


    Seeing her interest, Su Afo quickly recounted the events of the Eighteenth Layer of Hell.


    "Interesting, very interesting!" The Ninth Princess''s eyes gleamed with excitement as she pondered over her thoughts, seemingly making a decision.


    Seizing the moment while she was deep in thought, Su Afo sneakily retreated and then fled at an incredible speed.


    Su Afo flew back to his residence in no time, his speed twice as fast as usual. If his grandfather had seen him, he would have been pleased to see such an impressive disy of power.


    Breathing a sigh of relief, Su Afo thought, "That was close. What''s going on with the Ninth Princess today? What is she nning?"


    "No, no, no. Even if she was momentarily distracted, she''ll figure it out soon enough."


    Realizing this, Su Afo panicked again. He reluctantly picked a ne-shaped celestial artifact from his collection, feeling the loss deeply.


    "I''ll have to ask Brother Hongxiao to take it to her. I hope the enchantress doesn''te after my other treasures!" Su Afo said helplessly.


    The Ninth Princess saw Su Afo leave but didn''t stop him. She looked around, then headed towards Qingqiu Mountain.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan was brought by Mr. Li to a vast forest area, filled with numerous buildings. Zhong Shan noticed arge array surrounding the area, preventing anyone from leaving.


    At the forest''s edge stood many guards, and there was a giant stone monument inscribed with the words "Pce of the Hostages."


    Mr. Li led Zhong Shan inside, to a cluster of pces.


    "Holy King Zhong, you''ll be staying here for now. All the emperors and kings who have allied with our court reside here. Feel free to socialize. If you wish to go out, just pick two guards at the gate. As long as you stay within Qingqiu''s borders, you''ll have your freedom," Mr. Li exined.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Going out with two guards? More like two watchers.


    "I''ll take my leave then," Mr. Li said.


    Zhong Shan nodded as Mr. Li and the others left the Pce of the Hostages.


    Pce? As he looked at the pce before him, Zhong Shan felt no sense of peace or belonging. Who was Zhong Shan? Even as a hostage, he refused to surrender his freedom so easily.


    Gazing at the quebeled "Da Qin Hall," Zhong Shan felt no sense of affiliation. However, everything must be approached step by step.


    With determined steps, Zhong Shan entered. With a wave of his hand, the formation outside Da Qin Hall activated. Zhong Shan needed to retreat and perfect his "world."


    After leaving the Hostage Prince''s Mansion, Mr. Tanuki found the person in charge outside.


    "Keep a close watch on Zhong Sheng Wang whom I just brought in. Every time he goes out, he must be escorted by celestial immortals. Also, record every single thing he does outside," Mr. Tanuki instructed solemnly.


    "Understood!" came the reply.


    Zhong Shan sat cross-legged. Above him was a "sky" that he had shrunk to a diameter of merely thirty feet, a purple sky, concealed within the hall. The entire hall suddenly seemed to lose its roof.


    Zhong Shan remained seated for a whole day. Afterward, the smooth stone floor beneath him mysteriously turned to soil. Grass sprouted abundantly, miniature mountains and forests emerged. Gradually, the world beneath Zhong Shan connected with the "purple sky" above.


    What was once a canopy now resembled the interior of a sphere, without a single gap.


    In this purple world, as it waspleted, it seemed to expand infinitely in an instant. Zhong Shan appeared to be sitting in a vast realm.


    The sky had no sun or moon, yet it was illuminated by countless purple lights. The previously thundering "purple sky" was now devoid of lightning. Zhong Shan stood up and gazed at the sky.


    "Whoosh!"


    Suddenly, a colossal eye, a thousand feet wide, opened in the purple sky. The purple pupil exuded an aura of malevolence, and the whites of the eye seemed to draw in countless bolts of lightning.


    "The minor world has perished, yet you remain! Divine Retribution!" Zhong Shan murmured.


    This was the eye of heaven that Zhong Shan had deceived during the creation of his world, now named the Eye of Divine Retribution. It was the second heavenly entity Zhong Shan had stolen, apart from the Divine Creation Palm.


    The Eye of Divine Retribution blinked, a trace of reverence in its gaze.


    "This is my ''world,'' merely in its initial stage, without any additional attributes. You are the Eye of Divine Retribution; our fates are intertwined. As my ''world'' grows stronger, so will you. Now that I have entered the Great Thousand World, you can sense itsws, rules, and various divine principles. Absorb and incorporate them into this ''world''," Zhong Shanmanded.


    As if receiving Zhong Shan''s order, the Eye of Divine Retribution suddenly shone with a brilliant purple light.


    "Boom!"


    With a thunderous roar, the sky of the ''world'' changed color, fierce winds arose, and lightning shed. On the monotonousndscape,kes, mountains, and oceans began to form.


    Various elemental energies seemed forcibly drawn into this world, filling its voids and reinforcing its framework.


    The enhancement of the ''world'' required time, and Zhong Shan was in no hurry.


    Surveying the expanse of his domain, Zhong Shan dered, "From now on, this shall be called the ''Divine Realm.''"


    As if responding to his promation, the sky echoed with another p of thunder.


    "Boom!"


    As the Divine Realm continued to strengthen, the Eye of Divine Retribution slowly closed and disappeared into the heavens.


    Zhong Shan''s Divine Realm, embracing all thews of the universe, would one day undoubtedly make its name resound throughout the Great Thousand World.


    As Zhong Shan was immersed in observing his Divine Realm, an unexpected guest suddenly arrived in the Da Qin Hall.


    Sima Sanliang, whose entry into the heavily guarded Hostage Prince''s Mansion was a mystery, brought a fierce determination with him. The outside world had already begun a manhunt for him, leaving him with no escape. His only chance for survivaly in defeating Zhong Shan. If he could incapacitate Zhong Shan, he believed he would be saved.


    "My wife will surely save me," Sima Sanliang kept reassuring himself.


    He noticed a purple light sphere in the hall and frowned.


    "A world? Is this Zhong Shan''s world?"


    No matter, he had to disable Zhong Shan.


    A ck longsword appeared in Sima Sanliang''s hand. His eyes focused, and he thrust the sword fiercely toward the purple light sphere. A massive sword intent surged from his de, aiming directly at the heart of the light sphere, filling the hall with sword energy.


    "Swish!"


    Just as the sword was about to pierce the purple sphere, a purple sword shot out from the sphere. No, it looked like a sword but also resembled a fox''s tail.


    The purple sword carried a terrifyingly destructive sword intent, far surpassing Sima Sanliang''s. In an instant, Sima Sanliang felt frozen by the overwhelming sword intent.


    The powerful sword intent shattered all of Sima Sanliang''s sword energy within the hall. An even more terrifying aura of destruction erupted.


    "Imitation of the Immortal Execution Sword?" Sima Sanliang seemed to recognize the sword in an instant, his face showing shock.


    But it was toote. The fox tail, merged with the soul of the Immortal Execution Sword, shed with Sima Sanliang''s ck sword.


    "Boom!"


    The massive impact caused the entire Da Qin Hall to explode, sending powerful purple sword energy into the surrounding mountains, reducing countless forests to dust.


    With the emergence of the Immortal Execution Sword, none could rival its might.


    Sima Sanliang''s ck sword shattered instantly. He was bombarded with Immortal Execution Sword energy, sent flying, and coughed up blood mid-air. His face showed utter bewilderment.


    The terrifying strike of the Immortal Execution Sword left thick smoke rolling in all directions. As the smoke cleared, Zhong Shan stood revealed.


    The fox tail of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had vanished, but Zhong Shan''s imposing presence remained.


    Stepping forward, Zhong Shan looked down at the fallen Sima Sanliang.


    "You came to kill me?" Zhong Shan''s eyes turned icy.

 Chapter 851: The Turning Point

    <h4>Chapter 851: The Turning Point</h4>


    "Kill me?" Zhong Shan''s eyes turned icy.


    Not far away, a look of fear instantly appeared on Sima Sanliang''s face. The power of the sword strike just now was still vivid in his memory.


    Wasn''t this Dazheng Sacred King supposed to wield a de? Rumor had it that his divine weapon, blessed by the heavens, was a sword. But what was that sword intent just now? It was terrifying!


    Is this the aura of an imitation of the Immortal ying Sword? Yes, it was indeed an imitation of the Immortal ying Sword. Sima Sanliang had seen it before; or rather, a high-ranking expert in the Sima family had once refined imitations of the four Immortal ying Swords.


    It was that kind of aura, but it felt even more majestic than the one from the Sima family expert.


    Impossible, Sima Sanliang immediately shook his head. In Qingqiu, no one''s imitation of the Immortal ying Sword could surpass that expert.


    The oue was decided in one move.


    The moment Sima Sanliang''s sword shattered, he knew he was defeated. Even with a sneak attack, he couldn''t match Zhong Shan in front of him. Wasn''t Zhong Shan sealed by Sima Zongheng? How was he unharmed?


    To go out would mean death; fighting Zhong Shan would also mean death.


    With a fierce look in his eyes, Sima Sanliang quickly swallowed a golden pill.


    It was the Great Immortal Protective Pill, a gift from thatdy.


    The Great Immortal Protective Pill was a celestial-grade elixir. Consuming it would make the body as sturdy as a celestial artifact for an hour, greatly boosting one''s potential and increasing strength tenfold.


    Zhong Shan had no sympathy for those who came to assassinate him. He could immediately gauge Sima Sanliang''s strength with one test.


    Stepping forward, Zhong Shan struck Sima Sanliang''s chest with a palm.


    At that moment, the Great Immortal Protective Pill took effect in Sima Sanliang''s body. His skin turned a golden hue under the powerful medicinal effect.


    "ng!" The strike pushed Sima Sanliang back five zhang.


    But he was not killed by Zhong Shan''s strike.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    This palm strike, even if it didn''t kill Sima Sanliang, should have sent him flying a hundred zhang. After all, Sima Sanliang''s cultivation was only at the peak of Earth Immortal.


    Although Zhong Shan did not use the Heaven-Opening Palm, the effect shouldn''t have been so weak.


    That pill he swallowed?


    To verify this, Zhong Shan''s figure flickered and instantly disappeared from in front of Sima Sanliang, reappearing behind him and striking his back with another palm.


    Sima Sanliang was horrified to find that even after swallowing the golden pill, he was still no match for Zhong Shan.


    "Impossible, how can this be?" Sima Sanliang cried out in terror.


    Even with his strength increased tenfold by the Great Immortal Protective Pill, he still couldn''t withstand Zhong Shan''s continuous attacks?


    A palm strikended on Sima Sanliang''s back, causing him to stagger. Yet, he was still unharmed.


    "What kind of pill is this?" Zhong Shan asked in amazement.


    Why would Sima Sanliang respond to Zhong Shan? He drew arge de and shed at Zhong Shan. Unfortunately, if the sword couldn''t harm Zhong Shan, how could a de?


    Zhong Shan struck Sima Sanliang several more times in different ces, but to no avail.


    Sima Sanliang''s defense was truly impregnable.


    After a short bout, Zhong Shan''s patience wore thin. As he kicked Sima Sanliang away, his right palm began to emit a faint silver glow, with wisps of white mist spreading. Zhong Shan was preparing to use the Heaven-Opening Palm.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan paused, sensing another figure rapidly approaching from afar.


    The speed was astonishing, and in a sh, the figure was close.


    "p!"


    A crisp sound echoed as Sima Sanliang was sent flying by a fierce p.


    It was the Nine-Tailed Princess? Zhong Shan immediately recognized her. That enchanting charm could only belong to her in Qingqiu.


    "To hit someone, you have to aim for the face; it''s more satisfying that way, don''t you know?" The Nine-Tailed Princess scolded Zhong Shan.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan was a bit confused.


    "I saw it just now. That sword strike of yours was indeed impressive, but why didn''t you use it again?" the Nine-Tailed Princess asked.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly and didn''t reply.


    "I know. It''s because he''s Sima Sanliang. When you first arrived in Qingqiu, he humiliated you harshly, then tried to harm you by hiring people. Now, he''s personally attacking you. You want to vent your anger but not kill him too quickly, so you''re taking your time to humiliate him thoroughly, hitting him continuously," the Nine-Tailed Princess said smugly.


    Listening to this reasoning, Zhong Shan felt a bit strange. He wasn''t that petty; if not for wanting to test the pill''s effects, he would have pped Sima Sanliang to death long ago.


    But since the Nine-Tailed Princess had provided a convenient excuse, Zhong Shan nodded in agreement. At the same time, a thought shed through his mind, his eyes brightening slightly.


    Zhong Shan didn''t want to remain restricted. As a hostage, he naturallycked freedom. He devised a n to ce himself in the spotlight, under the watchful eyes of many, while gaining enough freedom to act as he pleased.


    He decided to provoke a group and then ally with another group, letting the opposing factions fight while he maneuvered freely.


    The first step was causing amotion in Qingqiu''s prison, ensuring Sima Sanliang would suffer and anger Sima Zongheng. The second step was to humiliate Sima Qianjun harshly.


    This set him against the Sima family.


    Since the Sima family was already his enemy, Zhong Shan didn''t hold back. Offending one faction meant he had to ally with another. Frequent shes between the two would allow him to gain increasing freedom within their conflicts.


    The Nine-Tailed Princess in front of him was an obvious target for alliance. Their previous encounter during the game with Sima Qianjun had already hinted at this possibility.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s nod, the Nine-Tailed Princess grew even more smug.


    "p!" The Nine-Tailed Princess moved like a ghost, her speed overwhelming even Zhong Shan.


    With another fierce p, the Nine-Tailed Princess struck Sima Sanliang''s face.


    Sima Sanliang was left dizzy and disoriented.


    "See? This is the pinnacle of humiliation. If you''re going to hit someone, you have to hit the face!" The Nine-Tailed Princess eximed excitedly.


    Sima Sanliang''s body might have been strengthened, but his true strength hadn''t reached the celestial level. How could he be a match for Zhong Shan and the Nine-Tailed Princess?


    Moreover, he didn''t dare to offend the Nine-Tailed Princess. Sima Sanliang could only endure the ps, unable and unwilling to retaliate.


    "My Sima family will not let you off easily. Killing the Third Young Master means certain death for you. My Sima family will wipe out your family, ughter your descendants, and enve your wives and daughters, making them lifelong ves of the Sima family!" Sima Sanliang shouted venomously.


    "Boom!" Zhong Shan kicked him.


    Sima Sanliang fell to the ground, and Zhong Shan stepped on his face.


    "I was going to give you a quick death, but your mouth is too foul!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    The sounds of the battle had finally drawn arge number of guards. Generally, the guards wouldn''t interfere with the affairs of the hostage residence, but since the Nine-Tailed Princess had entered, the guards rushed in fearing something might happen.


    Fortunately, the Nine-Tailed Princess was unharmed. However, the two figures at the foot of the mountain looked very peculiar. One person was entirely golden, while the other had his foot on the first person''s face, rendering him immobile.


    "Princess!" the guards greeted respectfully.


    But the Nine-Tailed Princess paid them no mind. Her eyes sparkled as she eximed, "I''ve realized that merely pping someone''s face isn''t the pinnacle of humiliation. Stepping on their face is much more impactful!"


    The guards recognized Zhong Shan, the ill-fated Sacred King, and Sima Sanliang.


    As Zhong Shan stood there, foot nted firmly on Sima Sanliang''s face, the Nine-Tailed Princess suddenly hopped over, eximing excitedly, "Let me try!"


    She pushed Zhong Shan aside and stepped down hard.


    "Princess, what are you doing?" one of the guards asked, puzzled.


    "He humiliated my guest, which means he humiliated me. I must return the favor. Hold him down, don''t let him move!" the Nine-Tailed Princess ordered.


    "Yes, Princess!" The guards, speechless, rushed forward to hold Sima Sanliang down, allowing the Nine-Tailed Princess to step on him repeatedly.


    Zhong Shan stood aside, speechless. Despite his disdain for Sima Sanliang, he couldn''t help but feel a tinge of pity for him. This was truly a miserable fate.


    After she had her fill of stomping, the Nine-Tailed Princess walked over, satisfied. By this time, the effects of the elixir had worn off, and Sima Sanliang was weakly taken away by the guards.


    "Zhong Shan, pack your things ande with me!" the Nine-Tailed Princess said directly.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan was puzzled.


    "I''ve already spoken to the Sacred King. You will be my retainer," the Nine-Tailed Princess said bluntly.


    "A retainer?" Zhong Shan asked, still confused.


    "Yes, as my retainer, you won''t have to live like a prisoner here anymore. Follow me, and if you prove yourself capable, I can even help you umte merit points," the Nine-Tailed Princess exined with a smile.


    "umte merit points? What do you mean?"


    "You don''t know? Well, you just came out of the Small Thousand World, so it makes sense. umting merit points means that when you contribute enough to the Taichu Sacred Court, you can be allowed to return for a thousand years!" the Nine-Tailed Princess exined.


    "Oh? How much merit is needed?" Zhong Shan''s interest was piqued.


    Return? Return to Dazheng?


    "A Celestial Emperor needs to umte the merits of a marquis. A Sacred Emperor needs the merits of a duke. For you, a Sacred King, it should be the merits of a prince," the Nine-Tailed Princess thought aloud.


    "The merits of a prince?" Zhong Shan was speechless.


    In Taichu, besides the Taichu Sacred King, the title of prince was only held by the three elusive Heavenly Kings. No one else had ever earned it.


    "Are youing or not?" the Nine-Tailed Princess asked.


    "Coming!" Zhong Shan immediately replied.


    In an instant, Zhong Shan weighed the pros and cons. Bing a retainer would grant him greater freedom, and he was extremely curious about the Nine-Tailed Princess''s identity.


    He was a Sacred King, a highly sensitive person. Constant surveince was expected. Why did the Taichu Sacred King allow the Nine-Tailed Princess such freedom? Her authority was exceedingly vast. Who exactly was she?


    Meanwhile, in a private residence in Qingqiu, Sima Zongheng and Sima Qianjun were ying chess.


    "Second Uncle, look, this is the move Zhong Shan used to humiliate me!" Sima Qianjun said angrily.


    "Zhong Shan practices the path of an emperor. To think he has such skill in chess as well?" Sima Zongheng said in a sinister tone, studying Zhong Shan''syout.

 Chapter 852: Facing Sima Zongheng

    <h4>Chapter 852: Facing Sima Zongheng</h4>


    "Second Uncle, can you break this game?" Sima Qianjun looked at Sima Zongheng with anticipation.


    Sima Zongheng narrowed his eyes, and with a sudden motion, ced a white stone on the board.


    "Snap!"


    As the stonended, it was as if a gentle breeze swept across the board, instantly changing the entire game situation.


    "You broke it, Second Uncle, you broke Zhong Shan''s game," Sima Qianjun eximed excitedly.


    "Yes," Sima Zongheng nodded in satisfaction.


    "Winning three games against me was such a bitter pill to swallow. If only I had thought of this move back then," Sima Qianjun said with a resentful expression.


    "No, you still aren''t his match," Sima Zongheng shook his head.


    "Why?"


    "Zhong Shan''s chess skills have transcended mere ''artistic conception'' and are nearing the level of ''Dao conception.'' You''ve only recently entered the realm of ''artistic conception,'' so it''s hard for you to defeat him for now," Sima Zongheng said solemnly.


    "Dao conception? Has Zhong Shan reached Dao conception?" Sima Qianjun asked in surprise.


    "No, I said he is nearing ''Dao conception.'' He is still within the realm of ''artistic conception.'' He practices the way of the emperor, with his heart set on the imperial path. How could he devote himself fully to the way of chess? One cannot serve two masters. Hence, I say he is still in the realm of ''artistic conception,''" Sima Zongheng exined seriously.


    "And you, Second Uncle?" Sima Qianjun asked with a hint of hope.


    "Me? I am also nearing Dao conception. Dao conception is not easy to attain. In our Sima family, the only one to have reached Dao conception is the Young Prince," Sima Zongheng said solemnly.


    "The Young Prince? The young master? The Young Prince has reached Dao conception?" Sima Qianjun asked in astonishment.


    "Yes, the Young Prince has reached Dao conception. This time in Yan Hai Yun Mountain, our Sima family''s hopes rest on the Young Prince," Sima Zongheng said.


    "Young Master!" Suddenly, a servant''s voice came from outside the courtyard.


    "Come in!" Sima Qianjun called out.


    Soon, a servant ran in.


    "What is it?"


    "Reporting to the Young Master and Second Master, ording to a report from a house servant just now, Zhong Shan has reappeared at the Second Chess za and is continuing the match," the servant said.


    "What? Zhong Shan is out? How could he be out?" Sima Qianjun asked in surprise.


    Sima Zongheng''s eyes also narrowed, a hint of doubt shing in them.


    "Second Uncle, what do you think?" Sima Qianjun frowned.


    "Let''s go and see!" Sima Zongheng said.


    "Yes!"��


    At the Second Chess za.


    At this moment, the za was crowded with chess yers, all extremely excitedly watching the central chess game.


    In the center of the za, there was a special chessboard set up. Or rather, ten chessboards.


    Zhong Shan''s arrival quickly caught the attention of the chess yers from the past few days. The Sacred King of Dazheng hade.


    The Sacred King of Dazheng was here? Initially, people eagerly wanted to y against Zhong Shan, but after he won six games in a row, most were too intimidated. This ill-fated Sacred King yed chess too brilliantly.


    Invincible. Once you enter the game, you can only lose.


    At this time, an official brought out a special chessboard, ten chessboards arranged in a circle, with Zhong Shan''s folded token ced in the center of the circle''s recess.


    Zhong Shan taking on ten at once?


    At this point, the chess yers once again disyed their pride, all taking their seats. The Nine-Tailed Princess, standing to the side, looked delighted. Finally, she had a retainer who could bring her honor.


    Zhong Shan sat in the center, cing pieces on the various chessboards. Facing ten opponents, Zhong Shan showed no fear. In fact, it seemed like a battle between two different realms. In just over an hour, Zhong Shan had defeated all ten opponents.


    While others pondered their moves, Zhong Shan seemed not to need any thinking at all. Using the sameyout, he crushed all ten opponents without them being able to counter.


    Zhong Shan''s chess skills were overwhelming.


    Achieving a hundred consecutive wins was too easy for Zhong Shan. The true masters had qualified decades ago; those present were yers teetering between mediocrity and mastery.


    Zhong Shan dominated the scene, and the Nine-Tailed Princess was filled with excitement. "Alright, next batch, next batch!"


    The crowd looked at the Nine-Tailed Princess strangely, feeling extremely ufortable. It felt like a ughterhouse, with the call for the "next batch." Were they pigs to her?


    Yet, the oues were clear. With each batch, Zhong Shan''s token score increased.


    A hundred consecutive wins seemed not far away.


    While Zhong Shan''s chess skills might not be the highest in Qingqiu, the time it took for him to achieve a hundred consecutive wins was certainly the shortest.


    Nine batches of opponentster, Zhong Shan had been ying for a day and a night, scaring away many lesser yers.


    There''s no point in continuing! Even other hundred-win yers hadn''t been this overwhelming.


    Ny-nine wins. The token showed ''99.''


    "Ny-nine wins. Just one more to go. Who''s next?" the Nine-Tailed Princess eximed excitedly, as if she were the one winning.


    But just like Sima Qianjun''s final game, no one wanted to step up. If Sima Qianjun had ended in such a humiliating defeat, how could anyone fare better against the more skilled Zhong Shan?


    "Ny-nine wins? Such high chess skills, Sacred King Zhong!" A cold voice suddenly echoed from the crowd.


    Chess yers stepped aside to reveal Sima Zongheng and Sima Qianjun.


    The speaker was Sima Zongheng.


    Chess yers'' eyes brightened. The scene of Zhong Shan humiliating Sima Qianjun a few days ago was still fresh in their minds. Sima Qianjun had been on the verge of his hundredth win, only to be thwarted and humiliated by Zhong Shan.


    Sima Zongheng was known for his remarkable chess skills. His path to a hundred wins had been smooth, and he was recognized as a top chess master in Qingqiu.


    Rumor had it that Sima Zongheng had entered the ''Artistic Conception'' realm tens of thousands of years ago. What was he doing now? Seeking revenge for Sima Qianjun?


    Would the near victory repeat itself, but with Zhong Shan as the new target?


    "You tter me, Lord Sima Zongheng," Zhong Shan said, looking up calmly.


    The two men stared at each other across the distance, their gazes shing coldly in the air.


    Sima Zongheng harbored disdain for Zhong Shan, and Zhong Shan had no good feelings for Sima Zongheng either.


    "Sima Qianjun, what are you doing? Can''t take a loss, so you brought your elder for revenge?" the Nine-Tailed Princess mocked.


    Swoosh!


    All eyes turned to Sima Qianjun. Despite his thick skin, being stared at by nearly ten thousand people made him blush slightly. He red, choosing to ignore the Nine-Tailed Princess, and looked hatefully at Zhong Shan.


    "I heard that a few days ago, Sacred King Zhong used chess to bully my nephew. That is not the act of a true man!" Sima Zongheng said sternly.


    Sima Zongheng''s tone shifted, filled with anger.


    "Humiliation? What are you talking about? One''s honor is earned, not given. Everyone saw what happened with Sima Qianjun that day. As for what it means to be a true man, Lord Sima Zongheng, you acted out of personal vendetta, disregarding protocol, and had me, a Sacred King, stripped of my powers and sent to the eighteenth level of hell. Is that what you call the actions of a true man?" Zhong Shan retorted without a hint of politeness.


    The crowd erupted in murmurs. Clearly, they were taken aback by Sima Zongheng''s actions. ording to tradition, a vassal''s royal hostage should be sent to the hostage residence. Sending a Sacred King to the eighteenth level of hell was both improper and petty, not the act of a true gentleman.


    There was no reason for Zhong Shan to mince words with Sima Zongheng. In Taichu, Sima Zongheng still needed to maintain his reputation. Zhong Shan, on the other hand, had nothing to lose. He spoke without reservations.


    As expected, Sima Zongheng''s eyes shed with a trace of anger at Zhong Shan''s words, but it quickly subsided.


    "Very well, let''s see just how capable you are!" Sima Zongheng said coldly.


    Sima Zongheng was really going to y? The chess yers around were filled with surprise, and then with excitement. After all, a match between two top yers was a rare spectacle.


    "What do you think?" the Nine-Tailed Princess asked Zhong Shan.


    She knew of Sima Zongheng''s strength and feared that her hard-won skilled retainer might be humiliated and defeated.


    "Afraid? If you''re scared, kneel down and kowtow to me three times, and I''ll let bygones be bygones!" Sima Qianjun taunted.


    Zhong Shan ignored Sima Qianjun and looked at Sima Zongheng, saying calmly, "If you have a token, I do need onest stepping stone. Just don''t cry for help like your nephew when you lose."


    "What did you say?" Sima Qianjun shouted angrily.


    Sima Zongheng held out his hand to stop Sima Qianjun from acting rashly. He took out his token, which he hadn''t used in decades.


    "Then we shall see whoughsst!" Sima Zongheng said coldly.


    The area was cleared.


    Zhong Shan vs. Sima Zongheng!


    The two took their seats, with Zhong Shan taking the ck pieces and Sima Zongheng the white. The draw had determined Zhong Shan to go first.


    ck piece, Tianyuan!


    With a single move, Zhong Shan used his old strategy against Sima Zongheng.


    "Tianyuan again? Does Zhong Shan not want to win?"


    "Not necessarily. Zhong Shan''syout must have hidden intricacies. Just wait and see!"


    As people spected, Zhong Shan and Sima Zongheng continued to ce their pieces. After an hour, each had ced over a hundred pieces.


    Zhong Shan''s moves gave off a grand, majestic feeling, like a mighty river rushing towards the sea, unstoppable and vast.


    Sima Zongheng''s chess, equally powerful, felt like thousands of horses galloping, dominating the world.


    When Zhong Shan ced his 108th piece, the faces of the chess yers suddenly changed.


    Everyone watching the board seemed momentarily dazed, as if the chessboard had transformed into a battlefield with endless armies shing, blood staining thend.


    "Kill������������������������!"


    "Kill������������������������!"


    The chessboard seemed to be a vivid illusion. The yers, their minds immersed, felt as if they were in a real battlefield, enemies in front and pursuers behind, a sense of no escape gripping their hearts.


    Sima Qianjun, watching from the side, turned pale.


    When Sima Zongheng ced his piece, it felt like a river of heavenly water pouring down, sweeping over the battlefield.


    The confrontation between these two peak yers, their chess prowess and realms, left most onlookers'' faces constantly changing. The weaker yers, overwhelmed, sat down on the ground, sweating profusely, unable to continue watching directly.

 Chapter 853: Breaking the Dao Heart

    <h4>Chapter 853: Breaking the Dao Heart</h4>


    Watching the chess game between Zhong Shan and Sima Zongheng, more and more people found it unbearable.


    A terrifying pressure bore down on their hearts. Was this still a chess game? It felt like a battlefield, a vast killing ground where two armies shed.


    Both armies could manipte the forces of heaven and earth, resulting in immense ughter and rivers of blood.


    This was a duel as if falling into an illusion, a terrifying battle that made more and more chess yers unable to bear watching. Yet, whenever they stopped looking at the chessboard for a moment, they couldn''t resist turning their gaze back.


    Then, driven out again by the oppressive aura of the two armies'' ughter.


    This went on for an entire day and night. While the two duelists were unaffected, the spectators were mentally and physically exhausted. Some sat cross-legged, stabilizing their minds, while one frail chess yer flew out of the za to a secluded spot to vomit.


    Sima Qianjun was drenched in sweat. At this moment, he finally understood Zhong Shan''s strength. It wasn''t just about the humiliation before; was the gap between their chess skills really this vast?


    In a courtyard in Qingqiu, Mr. Li sat in his garden, looking at a chessboard. At this moment, a servant came running.


    "Master!"


    "Hmm, have they made new moves?"


    "Yes, Zhong Shan and Sima Zongheng each made five moves."


    "Recreate them for me!"


    "Yes!"


    Though Zhong Shan had be a retainer of the Nine-Tailed Princess, many eyes were still on him. Sima Zongheng, being a prominent figure in Qingqiu, had countless eyes watching his every move as well.


    The chess moves from their duel were swiftly conveyed to various influential figures.


    Though Zhong Shan and Sima Zongheng were ying one game, at least ten ces were simultaneously recreating it.


    One day, two days, ten days.


    The duel between Zhong Shan and Sima Zongheng hadsted for ten days and nights.


    The news of this peak duel at the Second Chess za spread rapidly, attracting more and more chess masters from other chess venues.


    They all watched the game with immense anticipation.


    As the crowd grew, officials feared it would disrupt the duel, so they set up arge chessboard. Whenever a piece was ced inside, an official would immediately ce a corresponding piece on therge board, allowing the spectators to see the entire game clearly.


    People watched silently.


    "Ah������������������������������������������������!"


    A sudden scream echoed from the crowd, chilling everyone to the bone.


    Everyone looked and saw a man drenched in sweat, his face haggard. He had been so immersed in the chessboard''s illusion that he screamed when he felt he had been killed.


    No oneughed at him. Instead, they all marveled at the terrifying skills of the duelists.


    The Sacred King of Dazheng? Sima Zongheng?


    Who would prove stronger between these two peerless chess masters?


    The spectators could feel the horrifying oppressive aura of the illusionary battlefield. How much more intense must it be for the two duelists?


    At this moment, Sima Zongheng and Zhong Shan were deeply immersed in the game.


    Both continued to y without any expression. Sima Qianjun, unable to bear watching the intense game directly, joined the crowd in watching therge chessboard disyed in the za, finding it slightly more bearable.


    The Nine-Tailed Princess, not understanding chess, was unaware of the tension but felt a great sense of satisfaction seeing the expressions of the crowd.


    Zhong Shan stared at the chessboard, feeling like a kingmanding the battlefield. Sima Zongheng''s chess skills were indeed monstrously strong. After ten days and nights, even Zhong Shan felt his blood surging within him.


    Of course, Zhong Shan knew Sima Zongheng must be experiencing the same. The slowing pace of Sima Zongheng''s moves indicated that he too was caught in the intense illusion of a grand battlefield.


    Sima Zongheng had anticipated Zhong Shan''s strong chess skills but hadn''t expected them to be this formidable. Five days earlier, Sima Zongheng had already felt his blood surging but had suppressed it to avoid showing weakness.


    "Snap!"


    As Zhong Shan ced a piece, it was as if countless dead soldiers suddenly revived, charging at the enemy like an endless horde of zombies. A sense of death and destruction directly threatened Sima Zongheng''s army.


    Holding a white piece, Sima Zongheng''s eyes were bloodshot. In the illusion, his army couldn''t move, helpless against the onught of zombies tearing at their flesh. Even hismander self was being torn apart, unable to move, as if another move would lead to his entire army being overwhelmed by the undead.


    Sima Zongheng''s face turned deathly pale. He sat for an entire day and night, unable to ce the piece he was holding.


    Sima Qianjun, after waiting a day without seeing his uncle make a move, turned to look at Sima Zongheng.


    Sima Zongheng''s face was terrifyingly grim, his gaze fixed on the chessboard,pletely entranced. His mental state was rapidly deteriorating, his energy draining quickly.


    Seeing this, Sima Qianjun was rmed.


    "Second Uncle!" Sima Qianjun called out in concern.


    "Pu������������������������������������������������!"


    At that call, Sima Zongheng suddenly spat out a mouthful of blood, staining the chessboard red.


    The Grand Immortal Sima Zongheng, forced by a chess game to spit blood, left everyone stunned.


    Everyone watched in shock as Sima Zongheng vomited blood. They had anticipated the difficulty of the game, but no one had expected it to be this extreme.


    Sima Zongheng, a Grand Immortal, forced by the Sacred King of Dazheng to spit blood?


    With blood staining the chessboard, the game couldn''t continue, effectively dering Sima Zongheng''s defeat.


    "Snap!"


    Sima Zongheng''s chess piece fell, and he seemed to age significantly in an instant.


    "Second Uncle, are you alright?" Sima Qianjun rushed forward, filled with horror.


    Supported by Sima Qianjun, Sima Zongheng red at Zhong Shan with hatred in his eyes.


    "Someone, someone!" Sima Qianjun shouted.


    In an instant, arge number of Sima family experts surrounded them.


    "Sure enough, when you lose, you resort to dishonorable actions!" the Nine-Tailed Princess sneered.


    In truth, the Nine-Tailed Princess was filled with joy. This was immensely satisfying. Sima Zongheng, one of Qingqiu''s top chess masters, had been reduced to such a state by Zhong Shan, spitting blood and nearly copsing. Was Zhong Shan even human? No, he was her retainer.


    "Who dares to make a move?" The Nine-Tailed Princess put her hands on her hips, challenging the Sima family''s experts.


    Sima Zongheng waved his hand and shook his head. "Qianjun, let''s go home!"


    "But Second Uncle..." Sima Qianjun protested.


    "Let''s go!" Sima Zongheng said sternly.


    "Yes!" Sima Qianjun reluctantlyplied.


    As they left, Sima Qianjun cast a venomous nce at Zhong Shan, his eyes filled with hatred.


    Zhong Shan had won, and the token''s ''99'' turned to ''100''.


    A hundred consecutive wins. During the game, Zhong Shan had felt a stifling pressure, but once he won, a sense of exhrating relief spread throughout his body. It had been a long time since he felt such a sense of ease and satisfaction.


    For a moment, Zhong Shan felt like the shadows of the past had been swept away, and his mindset seemed to elevate once more.


    This was an upgrade in his chess skill realm. Zhong Shan believed that if he yed against Sima Zongheng again with his current state of mind, he would win even more decisively.


    "One hundred consecutive wins! Now my Nine-Tailed Princess'' Mansion can go to Yan Hai Yun Mountain. Zhong Shan, well done!" The Nine-Tailed Princess eximed happily, picking up the token. She was in a state of euphoria.


    Zhong Shan nced at the nearly ten thousand chess yers around and, feeling a bit overwhelmed, quickly left the Second Chess za with the Nine-Tailed Princess.


    Though Zhong Shan had left, he had left behind endless discussions.


    "The Sacred King of Dazheng is so powerful!"


    "That was Sima Zongheng! And he was forced to spit blood by Zhong Shan?"


    "How else do you be a Sacred King? Every Sacred King is a monstrously powerful being."


    "Now the enmity between the Sima family and Sacred King Zhong will only grow deeper."


    On Qingqiu Mountain, within the pce.


    A chessboard wasid out in front of the Taichu Sacred King and Mr. Li, replicating the moves of Zhong Shan and Sima Zongheng.


    An eunuch ced the pieces for them.


    "Reporting to the Sacred King, after Zhong Shan ced the final piece, Lord Sima pondered for a day and night before spitting blood and conceding defeat," the eunuch reported.


    The Taichu Sacred King nodded, and the eunuch withdrew.


    "Mr. Li, what do you think?" the Taichu Sacred King asked calmly.


    "Zhong Shan avenged his past grievances by breaking Sima Zongheng''s Dao heart with a game of chess. It will take Sima Zongheng at least a year and a half to recover," Mr. Li replied.


    "Zhong Shan, the Sacred King of Dazheng, his chess skills are indeed formidable! Such profound chess!" the Taichu Sacred King remarked.


    "No, I think it''s you, Sacred King, who yed a truly profound game!" Mr. Li smiled.


    "Oh?"


    "The Sacred King used Sima Zongheng to quell Zhong Shan''s arrogance, and then used Zhong Shan to suppress the Sima family''s arrogance. Every move is ingenious. The world is your chessboard, and you are ying the most profound game," Mr. Li exined with a smile.


    "Is that truly what you think?" the Taichu Sacred King asked mildly.


    Seeing the Taichu Sacred King''s subtle expression, Mr. Li''s brow furrowed, and he smiled bitterly. "The Sacred King''s thoughts are deep. I can only guess this much. Beyond that, I do not know."


    "Knowing this much is enough. You need not specte further," the Taichu Sacred King said calmly.


    Sensing that the Taichu Sacred King had more to imply, Mr. Li solemnly nodded. "Yes!"


    "It''s been tens of thousands of years, and Yan Hai Yun Mountain remains unresolved. This time, it''s another millennium-long calction. You will go in my stead," the Taichu Sacred King instructed.


    "Yes!" Mr. Liplied.

 Chapter 854: Yang Nine Yin Six

    <h4>Chapter 854: Yang Nine Yin Six</h4>


    Zhong Shan and the Nine-Tailed Princess left the Second Chess za. With this token, they could now enter the so-called Yan Hai Yun Mountain.


    As soon as they returned to the Nine-Tailed Princess'' Mansion, she said to Zhong Shan, "Zhong Shan, you truly are my lucky star. We are about to head to Yan Hai Yun Mountain. Rest for a day, and tomorrowe with me to a ce. I hope the old man from the Ziyang family was right."


    "The old man from the Ziyang family?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly surprised.


    "Yes, nothing much. He''s a fate maniptor. Originally, he came to find a traitor from the Ziyang family, and I happened to meet him. I had him read my fortune, and he said that I would have great fortune at Yan Hai Yun Mountain this time. So, I must go," the Nine-Tailed Princess exined directly.


    "A fate maniptor? A fortune-teller?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    Zhong Shan''s son, Zhong Xuan, had been a fate maniptor but had died in a battle against Kong Xuan.


    "Fortune-telling? I don''t know. I think they can only predict some things. For example, the old man from the Ziyang family who read my fortune. He came to hunt down a traitor, but that traitor died on his own without being hunted. If he had known earlier, why would he havee? Fortune-telling can only predict so much," the Nine-Tailed Princess shook her head.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    After just one day of rest, Zhong Shan and the Nine-Tailed Princess set off from Qingqiu.


    At this moment, the Taichu Sacred King''s attitude was quite peculiar. Normally, a vassal king like Zhong Shan would not be allowed to leave Qingqiu. However, the Nine-Tailed Princess managed to take Zhong Shan out. They encountered some interceptions along the way, but after the Nine-Tailed Princess showed hermand token, they were let through.


    At Sima Qianjun''s residence.


    "Young Master, Zhong Shan and the Nine-Tailed Princess left Qingqiu yesterday!" a servant reported.


    "What? How can Zhong Shan leave? Is he viting the vassal agreement?" Sima Qianjun''s eyes widened.


    "No, the Nine-Tailed Princess showed a Taichu Order, and everyone had to let them pass," the servant exined.


    "A Taichu Order? Let them pass? What is the Sacred King thinking? How can Zhong Shan leave Qingqiu?" Sima Qianjun said angrily.


    "Young Master, be careful with your words!" the servant said fearfully. Speaking against the Sacred King was a grave offense.


    "Careful my ass! This is my house, and if something happens, you won''t escape either. Get out!" Sima Qianjun shouted, extremely irritable.


    The servant retreated in fear.


    Zhong Shan and the Nine-Tailed Princess flew south, traveling for about a month.


    "We''re here," the Nine-Tailed Princess said with a satisfied smile.


    Her enchanting face, when smiling, seemed to change the world around her. A wild goose flying overhead bizarrely stopped pping its wings and plummeted straight down the mountain.


    "What a sin!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    The Nine-Tailed Princess stopped above a valley. Below, in the forest, numerous foxes were running around. Seeing the Nine-Tailed Princess descend, most of the foxes were momentarily stunned, clearly struck by her enchanting aura.


    "What is this ce?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Wait for me on the mountain! I''m going to retrieve something my father left for me," the Nine-Tailed Princess said.


    "Alright."


    The Nine-Tailed Princess descended into the valley and tapped on arge rock in a specific pattern. Soon, a cave entrance appeared in the mountain, and the Nine-Tailed Princess darted inside.


    Zhong Shan, not curious enough to follow her, waited patiently, thinking about Yan Hai Yun Mountain and what might await them there.


    "Yin������������������������������������������������!"


    At that moment, a phoenix cry pierced the sky. Zhong Shan saw a red phoenix soaring into the sky from the mountain before him. It was an energy phoenix. Following it, a golden dragon ascended.


    "What is Nine-Tails doing in there? No, wait!" Zhong Shan realized in astonishment that it wasn''t from the mountain where Nine-Tails was, but from all directions. Countless divine beast phantoms, including phoenixes, qilins, dragons, and cranes, rose into the sky, filling it with their presence. Rainbows arched from the ground to the heavens.


    Immortal music filled the air, and a fragrant aroma spread everywhere. The entire sky was bathed in boundless rosy clouds, creating an extremely beautiful scene.


    "What... what is this?" Zhong Shan stared at the sky in amazement.


    Heavenly omens? Is another world being created? Such auspicious signs? It can''t be a coincidence that I happened to be here, right?


    "Zhong Shan, what''s happening?" The Nine-Tailed Princess''s voice suddenly came from beside him.


    At some point, she had returned to his side.


    "I''m not sure yet, but it looks a lot like when I created my world," Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Is someone else creating a world?" The Nine-Tailed Princess''s eyes lit up.


    "Not sure yet," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    The two stood at the peak of the mountain, waiting for a day.


    After a day, the magnificent scene in the sky suddenly began to retreat. The phantoms of divine beasts gradually disappeared, the immortal music stopped, and the fragrance dissipated, as if nothing had happened.


    Zhong Shan was slightly surprised, as he had now confirmed that this was not the creation of a world.


    But if it wasn''t that, what had caused such a dramatic celestial phenomenon in this region?


    "I know what it is!" The Nine-Tailed Princess''s eyes lit up with understanding.


    "You know? You know what it is?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    "Of course, who do you think I am?" The Nine-Tailed Princess replied proudly.


    "So, what is it?"


    The Nine-Tailed Princess nced at Zhong Shan with a haughty look. "Is that how you ask your lord as a retainer?"


    Zhong Shan: "...!"


    "You haven''t even called me ''Lord'' yet. Call me ''Lord,'' and I''ll tell you," she teased.


    Zhong Shan was speechless.


    "Never mind, if you don''t know, just forget it!" Zhong Shan shook his head, refusing to give in.


    "Who said I don''t know? The Sacred King told me himself," the Nine-Tailed Princess said, frustrated.


    "I''m also a Sacred King, howe I don''t know? If you don''t want to say, then forget it," Zhong Shan, unwilling to call her ''Lord,'' retorted.


    "Sigh, you''re so stubborn. Fine, I''ll tell you. But when we get to Yan Hai Yun Mountain, you''ll have to help me more," the Nine-Tailed Princess said, exasperated.


    "You can count on it," Zhong Shanughed.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s smile, the Nine-Tailed Princess could only shake her head in exasperation.


    "A new Saint has been born, causing celestial phenomena! This is happening all over the world," the Nine-Tailed Princess exined.


    "A Saint? How do you know?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "A few hundred years ago, a Saint died, remember?"


    "Yes, I was in the Small Thousand World at the time and witnessed the blood rain from the sky, the heavens mourning," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "There are nine Saints in the Yang Realm. If one dies, another must be born to maintain bnce in the heavenly way," the Nine-Tailed Princess said proudly.


    "Nine Saints in the Yang Realm, and now a new one has been born?" Zhong Shan pondered.


    "Yes, that''s why we saw such a grand phenomenon. The bnce must be restored," the Nine-Tailed Princess affirmed.


    "In the Yang Realm, there are nine Saints? Only nine?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Of course, haven''t you heard of ''Yang Nine Yin Six''? The ultimate number for Yang is nine, and for Yin, it''s six. The Yang Realm can only have nine Saints, and the Yin Realm can only have six. Anyway, they are all ancient beings. I wonder who the newly born Saint is. I hope it''s someone close to us, like Zhuangzi," the Nine-Tailed Princess exined.


    "Zhuangzi isn''t a Saint?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "I heard he''s close but not quite there yet. By the way, I heard that during your world-creating event, Confucius'' disciples and Zhuangzi''s disciples almost fought because of you. What''s the story there?" the Nine-Tailed Princess suddenly became gossipy.


    Zhong Shan was speechless.


    "Come on, tell me!" she urged.


    "I think it''s gettingte. If we don''t hurry, we''ll miss the event at Yan Hai Yun Mountain!" Zhong Shan changed the subject.


    After another month of travel, they finally arrived at the so-called Yan Hai Yun Mountain.


    Yan Hai Yun Mountain was an ind in a mist-covered sea. The thick fog made it impossible to find directions.


    "We''rete! We''rete!" The Nine-Tailed Princess was anxious.


    "What a grand formation, covering the entire sea?" Zhong Shan squinted in amazement.


    "Exactly. Without a guide, you''ll bepletely disoriented inside!" The Nine-Tailed Princess was visibly worried.


    Just then, a golden boat suddenly flew through the fog.


    "A cloud ship?" The Nine-Tailed Princess''s face lit up with joy.


    "Cloud ship, over here! Take us to Yan Hai Yun Mountain," she called out.


    The golden boat quickly approached. A creature with a human body and a fox''s head was steering it. Zhong Shan found the ''fox-man,'' or perhaps ''man-fox,'' extremely peculiar.


    "This is my token from the Nine-Tailed Princess'' Mansion. Take us in!" The Nine-Tailed Princess handed over Zhong Shan''s token.


    The strange creature took the token, inspected it carefully, and said, "Okay!"


    The way it spoke was very mechanical, almost robotic.


    Zhong Shan and the Nine-Tailed Princess boarded the boat, with Zhong Shan still staring curiously at the creature.


    "Curious, right? It''s a puppet, designed to navigate the formation of Yan Hai Yun Mountain," the Nine-Tailed Princess exined with a smile.


    "A puppet?" Zhong Shan asked, intrigued.


    "Of course, otherwise, how could it look like that?" the Nine-Tailed Princess replied.


    Zhong Shan examined the puppet closely, marveling at its intricate design.


    "Has the Soul Game started?" The Nine-Tailed Princess asked the puppet.


    "It started ten days ago," the puppet replied.


    "So soon? We''rete. Hurry up, faster!" The Nine-Tailed Princess urged.


    "Yes!"


    The cloud ship sped through the mist-covered sea. Despite its impressive speed, it took an entire day and night to reach a fog-shrouded ind.


    The ind was enormous.


    "Quick, follow me!" The Nine-Tailed Princess said, pulling Zhong Shan towards the ind.


    Flying above the ind, Zhong Shan noticed numerous foxes running around. The dense forests and the abundance of spiritual energy made it clear that this ce was special.


    In the center of the ind stood the highest peak, surrounded by smaller peaks. Each smaller peak was crowded with people, likely the qualified chess yers.


    On a protruding terrace halfway up the central peak, a massive chessboard was set up. Two people were seated on either side of the board. One of them was Mr. Li, whom Zhong Shan recognized.


    Opposite Mr. Li was an old man with white hair and a white beard. They were deeply engrossed in their game.


    "That old man is the First Chess Sage of the Feng Tomb Domain, an elder of the fox n. The Chess Sage Chimei! He is the one who organized this Soul Game," the Nine-Tailed Princess exined.

 Chapter 855: The Heavenly Calamity Chessboard

    <h4>Chapter 855: The Heavenly Cmity Chessboard</h4>


    "That white-haired old man is the First Chess Sage of the Feng Tomb Domain and an elder of the fox n. He is the Chimei Chess Sage! This Soul Game was organized by him," the Nine-Tailed Princess pointed out.


    "Chimei Chess Sage?" Zhong Shan looked at the distant chessboard. The arrangement of the ck and white pieces was incredibly intricate. As Zhong Shan gazed at the board, he felt his vision blur, and he saw the so-called chessboard illusion.


    A starry sky, infinite in its expanse, with countless stars revolving ording to special rules, creating a grand andplex pattern. Within this starry sky, it was impossible to distinguish friend from foe; it seemed that even one''s own pieces could be utilized by the opponent.


    This enigmatic chessboard was like a vortex, drawing in everyone''s mind. Zhong Shan tried to peer into the depths of this starry sky but found it unfathomable, too mysterious.


    This chessboard was even moreplicated than the one he had yed against Sima Zongheng. It was soplex that Zhong Shan found himself deeply immersed.


    As Zhong Shan''s mind delved deeper, it felt as if two stars were rushing towards him.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    The two stars exploded with a violent force, shaking Zhong Shan''s spirit. Suddenly, a massive void ck hole appeared, and in his astonishment, a powerful suction drew Zhong Shan''s spirit in and ground it into dust.


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhong Shan snapped back to consciousness, drenched in sweat.


    "What intense killing intent!" Zhong Shan eximed in shock.


    He nced deeply at the Chimei Chess Sage in the distance. The First Chess Sage of the Feng Tomb Domain?


    While Zhong Shan was engrossed in the chessboard, a figure suddenly rushed towards him from a distant peak.


    Turning his head, Zhong Shan saw a chubby man in yellow clothes.


    "Strong man, you really tricked mest time!" The chubby man yelled as hended near Zhong Shan.


    "Afo, what are you talking about?" The Nine-Tailed Princess red at him.


    "I mean...!" Afo seemed to fear the Nine-Tailed Princess.


    "Su Afo?" Zhong Shan recognized him.


    "You remember me? Strong man, that trip to the eighteenth level of hell was so thrilling! Also, I heard you recently humiliated Sima Qianjun on the chessboard, making him ponder over a stupid move all night? And that old guy Sima Zongheng, who stood up for Sima Qianjun, got forced by you to spit blood? Is it true? You always cause a stir wherever you go!" Su Afo chattered on excitedly, his eyes gleaming.


    "Hehe, I don''t go by ''strong man.'' My name is Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan replied with a faint smile.


    "Zhong, Zhong Shan? Alright, Zhong Shan it is!" Su Afo quickly nodded.


    "We just arrived. Su Afo, how have you been doing in the chess games these past few days?" the Nine-Tailed Princess asked.


    "Oh, this is the ''Heavenly Cmity Chessboard'' set up by the Chimei Chess Sage, challenging people to break it. Unfortunately, most people only make it to the fourth move before they start hallucinating and retreat in madness. That Sima Zongheng, still injured from the beating you gave him, tried to y and made it to the sixth move before his old injuries red up, causing him to cough up blood and get carried back to that mountain to recuperate," Su Afo said, pointing to a distant peak.


    Zhong Shan nodded. Sima Zongheng''s Dao heart had been shattered by him and couldn''t recover quickly.


    On that mountain, Sima Qianjun and several others stood respectfully behind a young man. The youth wore a white robe, his face was as fair as snow, and he had an exceptionally handsome look that could captivate many young hearts.


    "Who is that?" Zhong Shan asked, noticing the youth''smanding presence.


    "That''s the Young Prince of the Sima family, Sima Yi. He''s the most talented member of their family and is said to be on the verge of bing a Saint himself," Su Afo exined.


    Zhong Shan observed Sima Yi, sensing a powerful aura about him. This was clearly no ordinary young man.


    "Who is that?" Zhong Shan asked calmly.


    "Him? He''s Sima Qing, the Young Prince of the Sima family. He''s reputed to be the top chess master in the Sima family and entered the Dao Conception realm a long time ago. He''s one of the top contenders this time," the Nine-Tailed Princess exined.


    "Dao Conception?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, he hasn''t made a move yet. From what I can tell, the ordinary yers have already tried, and now only the real masters are left to challenge the Heavenly Cmity Chessboard. After Mr. Li finishes, it should be his turn," Su Afo added.


    "Mr. Li? When did he start?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Last night. Mr. Li has already ced fifteen pieces, the most anyone has so far! His chess skill is the strongest," Su Afo replied.


    At that moment, on the distant terrace, Mr. Li suddenly closed his eyes, then ced his chess piece down and took a deep breath. "The Heavenly Cmity Chessboard, the heavenly Dao is elusive, I am not worthy!"


    "Mr. Li, you are too modest. cing fifteen pieces shows your profound chess skills. Even in the Dao Conception realm, you have a ce. Besides, you have kept your mind clear and not deeply immersed. Why stop now?" the Chimei Chess Sage asked with a hint of confusion.


    "The Soul Game captures the soul and spirit. I cannot delve deeper," Mr. Li said calmly.


    "Mr. Li does not primarily practice the ''Way of Chess,'' yet he has reached the ''Dao Conception'' in chess. I am impressed. After this Soul Game, I hope you will stay and discuss a game with me," the Chimei Chess Sage said.


    "Very well," Mr. Li nodded.


    With that, Mr. Li stepped off the terrace and flew to a nearby peak.


    The Chimei Chess Sage waved his hand, and thirty pieces on the chessboard vanished, restoring it to its original state.


    "Who else?" the Chimei Chess Sage asked, looking at the numerous chess yers on the surrounding peaks.


    "Strong... Zhong Shan, why don''t you give it a try?" Su Afo suddenly suggested.


    "Why should we go right after arriving? Let Zhong Shan observe a few more games, understand the chess path, and then thoroughly defeat the Chimei Chess Sage!" the Nine-Tailed Princess dered, holding her head high.


    Su Afo opened his mouth, unsure what to say. Defeat the Chimei Chess Sage thoroughly? Even joking shouldn''t be this outrageous!


    "Sima Qing requests the honor of a game, esteemed elder!"


    As expected, Sima Qing, having watched for over ten days, finally stepped forward.


    Everyone''s eyes turned to Sima Qing. The Young Prince of the Sima family, their foremost chess master, was now stepping up.


    Dressed in white, Sima Qing walked out with graceful steps, arriving at the terrace in an instant. With a flourish of his robe, he sat down with an unparalleled elegance.


    The Chimei Chess Sage nodded. "The Young Prince of the Sima family? Although I reside in Yan Hai Yun Mountain, I have long heard of the Young Prince''s renowned talent. Please, make your move."


    Sima Qing nodded, picked up a ck piece, and ced it on the board.


    "Snap!"


    "It''s different from Mr. Li''s approach?" Su Afo remarked, surprised.


    "Chess yers at the Dao Conception level do not follow anyone else''s path. They don''t need to mimic previous moves," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Everyone focused on the chessboard, watching as the Chimei Chess Sage and Sima Qing continued to ce their pieces.


    The higher one''s chess skill, the more intricate the illusion they saw. For Zhong Shan, an expert, each move revealed a vision of exploding stars, shattered voids, and a copsing universe.


    The Heavenly Cmity Chessboard, a divine cmity? The Chimei Chess Sage''s prowess was indeed formidable.


    Two hourster.


    "The fifteenth move," Su Afo said in surprise.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    Suddenly, a massive thunderp erupted in the sky. Lightning shed, and thunder roared as dark clouds enveloped the entire ind. An aura that pierced the soul pressed down on everyone.


    "ying a chess game can cause celestial phenomena? Is this for real?" Su Afo eximed.


    In the distance, the game continued.


    Sima Qing spent more and more time contemting each move, his eyes fixed on the board, his mind deeply immersed.


    The sixteenth move!


    When Sima Qing ced the sixteenth piece, a fierce wind rose, and the air became filled with a murderous aura. It pressed directly into everyone''s hearts. Above, the sky was filled with continuous shes of lightning and thunder.


    "Snap!" The Chimei Chess Sage ced another piece.


    Half a dayter.


    "Snap!"


    The seventeenth move. The ck clouds in the sky grew thicker, and the illusion became increasingly oppressive.


    The Chimei Chess Sage remained unfazed, continuing to y.


    Two dayster.


    Sima Qing held the twenty-first piece but couldn''t ce it. His eyes were bloodshot, his hair disheveled, and his face filled with madness.


    "Going forward is destruction, turning back is also destruction, what should I do?" Sima Qing murmured.


    He seemed trapped in an inescapable illusion, his entire mind and soul ensnared.


    "Why is this happening? Why is this happening?" Sima Qing muttered continuously.


    "Is heaven determined to destroy me? Is heaven determined to destroy me?" Sima Qing''s lips turned purple, and he appeared deranged.


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    Sima Qing suddenly stood up and let out a long howl towards the sky. Instantly, the storm clouds transformed into a massive void vortex, seemingly absorbing everything below.


    A violent aura emanated from Sima Qing.


    "Crack, crack, crack!" Many of Sima Qing''s long hairs snapped off.


    "This is bad!" A voice of rm came from beside Sima Qianjun in the distance.


    "Buzz!"


    The deranged Sima Qing was suddenly encased in a block of ice, his entire body covered, leaving only a faint silhouette visible.


    Next to the ice block, a figure appeared suddenly��it was Sima Zongheng.


    "Boom!"


    The ice shattered, and Sima Qing, who had been frenzied, had returned to his senses, though his face was still deathly pale. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath.


    "Are you all dead?" Sima Zongheng shouted angrily at the Sima family disciples.


    Sima Qianjun and the others didn''t dare say a word.


    "Huff!"


    Sima Qing exhaled and slowly opened his eyes.


    "The Heavenly Cmity Chessboard, I am not worthy," Sima Qing said softly.


    "Young Prince, your talent is exceptional. To reach this point under the Heavenly Cmity ismendable. However, one must act within their means. What is meant to be yours, no one can take away. What is not yours, do not covet too much. Take care," the Chimei Chess Sage said with a hint of meaning.


    Sima Qing''s expression changed, as if the Chimei Chess Sage had seen through something, but he quicklyposed himself and respectfully said, "Thank you, elder."


    "Hmm!" The Chimei Chess Sage nodded and said no more.


    Turning to Sima Zongheng, Sima Qing nodded, "Thank you, Second Uncle."


    "It was my duty," Sima Zongheng said immediately, showing a great deal of respect for his nephew.

 Chapter 856: The Mysterious Nine-Tails

    <h4>Chapter 856: The Mysterious Nine-Tails</h4>


    "That freak Sima Qing, twenty moves? Why doesn''t a thunderbolt from the heavens strike him dead!" Su Afo eximed in jealousy.


    Su Afo wasn''t alone in his jealousy; many of the chess experts surrounding them wore envious expressions. After all, even the close advisor to the Sacred King, Taichu''s top strategist Mr. Li, had only managed fifteen moves, while Sima Qing reached twenty. How high must his realm be?


    Whether they participated in the game or just watched, everyone knew one thing: once engaged in the Soul Game, one''s mind was entirely invested in the chessboard. Each move consumed endless thought, facing the cmities of heaven made each step feel impossible.


    Though Sima Qing ultimately lost, he lost with honor. The celestial phenomena earlier were the best testament to that��they weren''t caused by magic, but by the chess game itself, which had resonated with the Dao of Heaven.


    "Zhong Shan, you must defeat the Chimei Chess Sage," the Nine-Tailed Princess urged Zhong Shan.


    Su Afo felt speechless. What was the Nine-Tailed Princess thinking? Did she still hope for someone to defeat the Chimei Chess Sage? He was the foremost Chess Sage in the Feng Tomb Domain; how could he be defeated?


    In the distance, the Chimei Chess Sage, without looking at the chess yers on the surrounding peaks, suddenly raised his head and said calmly, "The visit of the Zixiao Master is an immense honor. However, does a dignified master hide in the shadows, unafraid of tarnishing his esteemed name?"


    At the mention of the Zixiao Master, almost everyone was taken aback.


    Zixiao Master? The Master of the Zixiao Dojo in the Feng Tomb Domain? What was he doing here?


    As everyone marveled, a bolt of purple lightning shed on the terrace where the Chimei Chess Sage stood, and a man in a purple robe, with a pair of menacing bones protruding from his forehead, appeared.


    The moment the Zixiao Master appeared, a terrifying aura radiated from him, making it hard for the lower cultivators around to breathe.


    The oppressive presence of a superior being was unmistakable.


    The Zixiao Master was one of those who had once pressured the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Seeing the Zixiao Master in the distance, Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes.


    "Zixiao Master, what brings you here uninvited?" the Chimei Chess Sage asked calmly.


    "The Soul Game at Yan Hai Yun Mountain happens once every thousand years. Why not?" the Zixiao Master responded.


    "This is a matter for the fox n. The fox n is the national beast of Taichu. What does this have to do with the Zixiao Master?" the Chimei Chess Sage asked sternly.


    "How could it not? The Zixiao Dojo also has members of the fox n. Why doesn''t my Zixiao Dojo have the right to participate?" the Zixiao Master replied slowly.


    "For tens of thousands of years, the Zixiao Dojo has never shown interest in Yan Hai Yun Mountain. Why now? I am puzzled. I hope the Zixiao Master can rify," the Chimei Chess Sage said with a frown.


    "Because I want to participate this time and see the results myself," the Zixiao Master said lightly.


    Everyone knew that the Zixiao Master wasn''t telling the whole truth, but who could argue with a dignified master? No one dared to speak up.


    "Is the Zixiao Master here solely to participate in the Soul Game? No other reason?" the Chimei Chess Sage asked gravely.


    "I am here for the Ancient Immortal Secret Realm," the Zixiao Master said with a faint smile.


    Ancient Immortal Secret Realm? Upon hearing the Zixiao Master''s words, the Chimei Chess Sage''s face changed, and he stared intently at the Zixiao Master.


    "The Zixiao Master is already an Ancient Immortal, yet you''re interested in another Ancient Immortal Secret Realm? And it belongs to the fox n. Aren''t you afraid of offending the entire Qingqiu?" the Chimei Chess Sage said sternly.


    "Ancient Immortal? Yes, I am an Ancient Immortal, but the Ancient Immortal within the secret realm once followed a Saint, the ancient Saint. Today, I am determined to y this game. You wouldn''t want the world to know about this, would you?" the Zixiao Master said with a serious yet amused tone.


    The Zixiao Master was threatening the Chimei Chess Sage? It was obvious to everyone. Many of the chess yers were angry, but since it didn''t affect their own interests, no one stepped forward. After all, opposing the Zixiao Dojo would be suicidal.


    After giving the Zixiao Master a deep look, the Chimei Chess Sage said, "Very well. ording to the rules, if the Zixiao Dojo can break my Heavenly Cmity Chessboard, the Zixiao Dojo will be allowed to participate in the Soul Game at Yan Hai Yun Mountain. If not, the Zixiao Master will have to excuse himself."


    The Zixiao Master sat down lightly, neither agreeing nor disagreeing. He picked up a ck piece and made his move.


    As a grandmaster, his chess y was astonishing, and his moves were even faster than Sima Qing''s and Mr. Li''s.


    "Ancient Immortal Secret Realm? Wow, could there be ancient immortal artifacts?" Su Afo''s eyes lit up.


    "Uncultured! Taichu also has ancient immortal artifacts. Is it such a big deal?" the Nine-Tailed Princess scoffed.


    Feeling the disdain from the Nine-Tailed Princess, Su Afo was left speechless.


    "Princess, how can Ipare to you? My grandfather is only a duke. The most valuable things in our house are just grand immortal artifacts. Unlike you, who enters and leaves the pce freely, even the treasures of the Sacred King aren''t hidden from you. Come on, tell me, does the Sacred King have ancient immortal artifacts? The Sacred King should be at the ancient immortal level, right? Having ancient immortal artifacts is normal. Plus, with our Taichu Sacred Court''s long history, there must be some treasures," Su Afo eagerly looked at the Nine-Tailed Princess.


    "I don''t know, and even if I did, I wouldn''t tell you!" the Nine-Tailed Princess retorted bluntly.


    Su Afo was left speechless again, while Zhong Shan continued to focus on the chess game.


    The Zixiao Master was indeed formidable. Within the infinite starry sky of the Heavenly Cmity Chessboard, it was as if a powerful torrent of lightning swept through, shattering stars along its path. The lightning torrent was unstoppable, demonstrating the Zixiao Master''s overwhelming power and majesty.


    However, the Chimei Chess Sage, known as the top Chess Sage of the Feng Tomb Domain, wasn''t easily defeated. He responded move for move.


    At the sixteenth move, the Zixiao Master began to experience what Sima Qing had gone through. Dark clouds covered the sky, and lightning shed continuously. The oppressive power of the heavens manifested once again.


    "I didn''t expect the Zixiao Master to enter the Dao Conception realm as well!" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, I wonder how long he canst," Su Afo nodded.


    Move after move, the Chimei Chess Sage disyed his formidable chess skills, his face growing more serious, while the Zixiao Master became increasingly intense.


    The Zixiao Master was engulfed in lightning, crackling and shing, making him look like a giant ball of electricity.


    "The Zixiao Master has ced the twenty-third piece," many chess yers were astonished.


    But after the Chimei Chess Sage ced his twenty-third piece, the Zixiao Master couldn''t make another move.


    Staring at the chessboard, he seemed trapped in it. Though he didn''t speak, lightning continued to shoot out from his body, wildly and uncontrobly.


    Like this, the Zixiao Master stayed for another night, his body appearing increasingly unstable.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    With a thunderous explosion, the Zixiao Master''s body suddenly exploded.


    Everyone was stunned. Exploded? The Zixiao Master exploded? And nothing was left? Not even a trace?


    The Zixiao Master dead? Almost no one could believe what they saw. It was too unreal. How could a dignified master die just like that?


    "The Chimei Chess Sage is ruthless!" Su Afo remarked with a strange expression.


    Many thought that the Chimei Chess Sage had killed the Zixiao Master. But the expressions on the faces of Mr. Li, Sima Qing, and Sima Zongheng on the opposite peak grew increasingly solemn. They stared intently at the distant terrace.


    Suddenly, the previously exploded lightning reappeared, converging towards the center. In an instant, it coalesced back into the figure of the Zixiao Master.


    The Zixiao Master had revived? After the initial shock, most people were bewildered, struggling to process the sudden change.


    "The Chimei Chess Sage, as the foremost Chess Sage of the Feng Tomb Domain, your reputation is well-deserved!" the Zixiao Master said heavily.


    "Your ''Purple Thunder Projection'' is also quite renowned. While you are at the Zixiao Dojo, your projection was sent here. I am impressed!" the Chimei Chess Sage replied.


    "You managed to detonate my projection with the Way of Chess. The title of Chess Sage suits you!" the Zixiao Master''s face was grim.


    "Zixiao Master, as an Ancient Immortal, how powerful is your projection?" the Chimei Chess Sage countered, turning the threat back on the Zixiao Master.


    The Zixiao Master''s brow furrowed as he nced at the Chimei Chess Sage and said, "Since the Chess Sage has bested me, I won''t interfere any further."


    With that, the Zixiao Master''s figure shed and disappeared from sight.


    Although the Zixiao Master had left, the Chimei Chess Sage and Mr. Li looked around, seemingly confirming whether the Zixiao Master had truly departed. This time, no one could detect him.


    Mr. Li shook his head slightly at the Chimei Chess Sage, who nodded in response.


    "Who else?" the Chimei Chess Sage asked, surveying the chess yers on the surrounding peaks.


    However, after witnessing the experiences of Sima Qing and the Zixiao Master, no one dared to step forward.


    Sima Qing''s earlier madness was still fresh in their minds. Although Sima Zongheng had interrupted his frenzy, the memory of his crazed state lingered. The deeper one delved into the game, the more one sumbed to madness. While Sima Qing had someone to stop him, the Zixiao Master had no such restraint. As a grandmaster and leader of a dojo, he had self-destructed? Though it was only a projection, it had still terrified anyone harboring delusions of sess.


    ying this game? It was a death wish!


    The Chimei Chess Sage scanned the crowd, seeing no one willing to step up. He sighed slightly and was about to speak when a voice called out from a distant peak.


    "Zhong Shan, it''s your turn. Defeat the Chimei Chess Sage and bring glory to the Nine-Tailed Princess'' Mansion!" the Nine-Tailed Princess shouted.


    Defeat the Chimei Chess Sage? Everyone''s face twitched at her words. Defeat the Chimei Chess Sage? Such arrogance!


    All eyes turned towards the voice.


    With everyone looking, Mr. Li furrowed his brow, and Sima Qing showed a hint of curiosity. "Is he the one who defeated both of you?" Sima Qing asked.


    "Yes," Sima Zongheng nodded, without any concealment.


    The other chess yers looked on with disdain. Su Afo, feeling the weight of their scorn, wished he could disappear. His face was full of bitterness. Little ancestor, even if you don''t understand chess, you should see how powerful the Chimei Chess Sage is! Defeat him?


    The Chimei Chess Sage looked towards Zhong Shan. "Who are you?"


    "I am the Nine-Tailed Princess, and he is my retainer. Zhong Shan!" the Nine-Tailed Princess called out immediately.


    Since the Soul Game was only open to those from Taichu, the Nine-Tailed Princess quickly dered their affiliation to legitimize Zhong Shan''s participation.


    "The Nine-Tailed Princess? It''s been a long time since anyone in Qingqiu has been titled ''Nine-Tailed.'' Even in the Taichu Sacred Court, this is the first time. Are you the new ''Nine-Tailed''?" the Chimei Chess Sage asked, slightly surprised.


    "The Nine-Tailed Princess was conferred the title by the Sacred King three hundred years ago," Mr. Li interjected.


    "The Nine-Tailed Princess? My apologies!" the Chimei Chess Sage said respectfully.


    The Chess Sage''s deferential attitude left everyone astonished. The Nine-Tailed Princess? What was her true identity? The Chimei Chess Sage knew? Curious eyes turned towards her.


    The Nine-Tailed Princess''s origins were extremely mysterious. In all of Qingqiu, perhaps only the Sacred King knew her true identity. Since her appearance three hundred years ago, she had roamed Qingqiu unimpeded, destroying anyone in her path, human or divine. No one dared offend this little demoness.


    Of course, driven by curiosity and interest, many had investigated the Nine-Tailed Princess but found nothing. She seemed to have appeared out of nowhere, baffling everyone.


    But what did the Chimei Chess Sage''s attitude mean? Did he know something?


    "Very well!" The Nine-Tailed Princess nodded with satisfaction, seeming to enjoy the astonished expressions of those around her.


    "The Nine-Tails is just a title. May I ask for the Nine-Tailed Princess''s name?" the Chimei Chess Sage asked.


    "Uh?" Everyone was slightly taken aback.


    Isn''t she just called Nine-Tails? She has another name?


    "The Sacred King said that my name is not to be revealed. I won''t tell you!" the Nine-Tailed Princess shook her head.


    Everyone was speechless. Why couldn''t her name be revealed? Was this a joke? A name was just abel; why keep it a secret? Most people thought the Nine-Tailed Princess was just messing around, feeling exasperated.


    Only Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback, as he suddenly remembered that Mr. Shi''s name couldn''t be revealed either. Why couldn''t their names be known?


    The Chimei Chess Sage''s expression shifted, as if he had thought of something, and he nodded. "My apologies for being presumptuous!"


    The crowd grew even more perplexed. Had the Chess Sage gone mad from ying too much chess?


    "Alright, Zhong Shan, you go ahead! Remember, bring glory to the Nine-Tailed Princess'' Mansion. Even if you can''t win, at least surpass twenty-five moves. Those fools, with so many empty spots on the board, why can''t they just fill them in? Just ce the pieces, over twenty-five moves should be easy," the Nine-Tailed Princess advised Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan was speechless. It wasplicated. The Nine-Tailed Princess made sense. If one didn''t know how to y chess, cing pieces randomly could easily surpass twenty-five moves, or even two hundred moves. But could Zhong Shan do that?


    "I''ll do my best!" Zhong Shan said, wiping the cold sweat from his forehead.


    Zhong Shan stepped onto the terrace.


    "Zhong Shan!" he announced his name with dignity.


    "I won''t go easy on you because of the Nine-Tailed Princess. Give it your all!" the Chimei Chess Sage said calmly. With a wave of his sleeve, the pieces ced by the Zixiao Master returned to the bowl, ready for Zhong Shan to start.


    Zhong Shan nodded, picked up a ck piece, and prepared to make his move.


    At the same time, in the Underworld, in Changjing, within the Heaven-Observing Pavilion.


    Zhong Shan''s shadow body and Nangong Sheng sat in a courtyard with a chessboard set up.


    "Nangong Sheng, this is the Heavenly Cmity Chessboard from the Yang Realm. Do your best to break it!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "I will do my best!" Nangong Sheng responded.

 Chapter 857: A Cross-World Chess Match

    <h4>Chapter 857: A Cross-World Chess Match</h4>


    In the underworld, in Changjing, within the Heaven-Observing Pavilion.


    Zhong Shan''s shadow body and Nangong Sheng sat in a courtyard, a chessboard set up between them.


    "Nangong Sheng, this is the Heavenly Cmity Chessboard from the Yang Realm. Do your best to break it!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "I will, Your Majesty!" Nangong Sheng replied.


    "I must emphasize once again, there have been three ''Dao Conception'' experts who have tried to break this board. The first one, after fifteen moves, retreated safely. The second one, after twenty moves, became mentally unstable and went into deviation. The third one, after twenty-three moves, lost control of his body, causing his immortal essence to riot, and he self-destructed!" Zhong Shan looked seriously at Nangong Sheng.


    "Rest assured, Your Majesty. My chess skills have improved greatly since acquiring the contents of the ''Book of the Earth.'' This board is indeed challenging, but I am confident I can break it. In fact, it feels as if this board was set up specifically for me!" Nangong Sheng smiled.


    "Oh? How so?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Thanks to Your Majesty''s world-creating event and the blessings it brought, all my injuries have healed, and my cultivation has soared. Over this period, I have reached the peak of the Heavenly Immortal stage, and I am just a step away from bing a Grand Immortal. Perhaps, by breaking this Heavenly Cmity Chessboard, I can achieve a breakthrough and be a Grand Immortal!" Nangong Sheng said confidently.


    "Good! Good! Good!" Zhong Shan eximed thrice, feeling ted. Would the Dazheng Holy Court soon have a second Grand Immortal?


    The first Grand Immortal, Wang Kuo, had recently reported to Zhong Shan that he had reached the Grand Immortal stage. Now, it seemed that Nangong Sheng was on the verge of achieving the same.


    With this, the strength of Dazheng would increase significantly. The Feng Tomb Domain in the Yang Realm had temporarily stabilized, but the Turnwheel Domain in the underworld was far from simple.


    ording to reports from scouts, a nearby force was led by someone capable of manipting time��a peerless prodigy.


    Time maniption? Such an ability was exceedingly rare in the world. And to have one so close to their doorstep?


    Fortunately, it was said that this peerless expert was still in seclusion. By the time he emerged, Dazheng might already be strong enough to face him head-on.


    Nangong Sheng gazed at the chessboard, his expression serene. To dominate the board, one must approach it with a transcendent attitude.


    The chessboard represented a world, a world beset by heavenly cmities.


    In the underworld, Nangong Sheng! Long ago, as a mortal, he had been able to summon heavenly tribtions with his chess formations, defeating opponents with his chess skills.


    In the Yang Realm, the Chimei Chess Sage! The foremost Chess Sage of the Feng Tomb Domain!


    Nangong Sheng vs. the Chimei Chess Sage!


    A peak chess match spanning two worlds.


    A gentle breeze stirred in the courtyard as Nangong Sheng made the first move.


    With the first piece ced, Zhong Shan in the Yang Realm replicated the move on the board.


    "Zhong Shan has chosen a new strategy?" Su Afo asked, puzzled.


    "Of course, Zhong Shan intends to defeat the Chimei Chess Sage, not lose to him!" the Nine-Tailed Princess said confidently.


    As Zhong Shan ced his piece, the Chimei Chess Sage gave him a deep look.


    On a distant peak, Mr. Li frowned as he observed Zhong Shan''s move.


    "Mr. Li, what do you think of this move?" Sima Qing''s voice suddenly sounded in Mr. Li''s ear.


    Mr. Li turned to see Sima Qing addressing him.


    Smiling slightly, Mr. Li stepped forward and soon stood beside Sima Qing. Sima Zongheng and Sima Qianjun, seemingly following Sima Qing''s orders, did not interfere, allowing Mr. Li to stand at the forefront with Sima Qing.


    "Young Prince, your chess skills are impressive," Mr. Li said with a smile.


    "Mr. Li, there''s no need to be so modest. Excessive modesty bes hypocrisy. You didn''t refrain from making a move because you couldn''t; you chose not to, to avoid revealing too much," Sima Qing said calmly.


    "Making the move wouldn''t have changed the oue. I would still have lost to the Chimei Chess Sage. It was better to let go early," Mr. Li replied in a t tone, though his words carried a deeper meaning.


    Sima Qing looked at Mr. Li in surprise and shook his head. "Let go? That''s easier said than done. When the timees, it''s never as easy as it sounds."


    "The longer you hold on, the harder it bes to let go," Mr. Li said mildly.


    "Let''s not talk about this. Let''s observe Zhong Shan''s game. From the match he yed against my uncle, it''s evident that Zhong Shan has at least one foot in the ''Dao Conception'' realm, if not fully there. But what does this first move in the corner signify?" Sima Qing asked, frowning.


    "The Great Saint King of Dazheng, no matter how shallow his background may be, is not someone ordinary people can fathom. This move is too risky and unconventional. It''s hard to understand its purpose at this moment. What do you think, Young Prince?" Mr. Li asked.


    "It does seem like a risky move. It''s too early to say. Let''s judge after Zhong Shan has made ten moves," Sima Qing responded calmly.


    "Agreed."


    The two of them continued to watch the chessboard, as did the surrounding chess yers. Most didn''t think highly of Zhong Shan. After all, if the Zixiao Master had been defeated, what chance did Zhong Shan stand? They spected on how many moves Zhong Shan could make before failing.


    "Snap!" "Snap!" ... In the blink of an eye, Zhong Shan had made twelve moves. However, the anticipated spectacle didn''t ur. Zhong Shan was still persisting and seemed unaffected.


    Could it be that the Chimei Chess Sage was intentionally going easy on him?


    This thought briefly shed through everyone''s mind but was quickly dismissed. They trusted in the Chimei Chess Sage''s respect for the Way of Chess.


    But it had already been twelve moves.


    "Mr. Li, what do you think now?" Sima Qing asked, his brow deeply furrowed.


    "This game doesn''t seem like Zhong Shan''s style. Heavenly steed soaring across the skies, epassing the world? It seems too far-fetched," Mr. Li said, frowning.


    "Indeed, I feel the same," Sima Qing nodded.


    In another corner of the terrace.


    "Strong man is indeed strong. Twelve moves, and still going!" Su Afo eximed.


    "Snap!" "Snap!" "Snap!"


    "Sixteen moves now, why hasn''t there been any celestial phenomenon?" Su Afo wondered.


    No celestial phenomenon? Actually, when the tenth move was ced, some stars in the distant starry sky above the mist had already begun to shine brightly.


    Sixteen moves. Everyone watched in astonishment. Was Zhong Shan really this strong? While he had defeated Sima Zongheng before, even Sima Zongheng had only managed five moves.


    What no one noticed was the subtle change in the Chimei Chess Sage''s expression. His pupils contracted slightly as he looked deeply at Zhong Shan, a rare seriousness creeping into his demeanor.


    The intricate chess match was unfolding, a game that mirrored the entire world. Many of the surrounding chess yers, watching intently, were already pale-faced, retracting their earlier underestimation of Zhong Shan.


    "Snap!" "Snap!" "Snap!" ... The game continued, and now Zhong Shan had ced twenty-five moves.


    Yet the game wasn''t over.


    The pieces kept falling. The game continued.


    "Uh, could it be that the Chimei Chess Sage is going easy on him out of respect for you?" Su Afo looked at the Nine-Tailed Princess with a peculiar expression.


    Su Afo wasn''t particrly skilled in chess. He hade along mainly because of a retainer in his household. Seeing Zhong Shan make twenty-five moves, he instinctively thought the Chimei Chess Sage might be letting him win.


    The Nine-Tailed Princess, however, looked slightly smug and said, "You don''t understand!"


    "I don''t understand? Please enlighten me, Princess," Su Afo asked, puzzled.


    "I told Zhong Shan earlier that if he couldn''t make a proper move, he should just ce the pieces randomly. Zhong Shan is as smart as I am!" the Nine-Tailed Princess said with pride.


    Su Afo''s mouth hung open, unable to close for a long time. He didn''t know whether to be more astonished by the Nine-Tailed Princess''s statement or by Zhong Shan''s apparent luck. cing pieces randomly? Could it be true?


    Among the spectators, some, like Su Afo, didn''t understand chess well and assumed the Chimei Chess Sage was going easy on Zhong Shan. However, seeing some of the more skilled chess yers turn pale, they began to realize that Zhong Shan might indeed be exceptionally skilled.


    "Young Prince, what do you think?" Mr. Li asked, frowning.


    "Strong, very strong! I can now be certain that he has definitely entered the Dao Conception realm!" Sima Qing said seriously.


    Behind him, Sima Qianjun and Sima Zongheng looked at Zhong Shan with astonishment and a hint of resentment.


    "Snap!" "Snap!" "Snap!" ... Zhong Shan''s ck pieces continued to fall one after another. Those who didn''t understand chess had be numb. Was it really that exaggerated? Zhong Shan had made 126 moves. Was he even human?


    The chess yers who understood the game had long stopped watching. Many of them sat cross-legged with their eyes closed, trying to digest the moves made by Zhong Shan and the Chimei Chess Sage.


    126 moves. The chess yers were speechless.


    On the other side, Sima Qing, Mr. Li, Sima Qianjun, and Sima Zongheng were equally silent. The four of them had nothing more to say.


    "Is Zhong Shan''s chess skill really this formidable? 126 moves?" Sima Qianjun swallowed hard.


    "Zhong Shan has exceeded my expectations!" Mr. Li said, frowning.


    "Indeed," Sima Qing nodded.


    At this moment, almost no one was looking at the chessboardyout. They were merely recording the sequence of moves.


    All those who had recovered theirposure did the same, watching the moves without trying to understand their purpose, merely observing the two yers.


    Zhong Shan''s moves had shocked everyone. Could he really be aiming to defeat the Chimei Chess Sage?


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan, then at the Chimei Chess Sage. Zhong Shan''s face was expressionless, but the Chimei Chess Sage''s face had turned red?


    There were even traces of blood in the Chimei Chess Sage''s eyes. Everyone rubbed their eyes, unwilling to believe this bizarre reality.


    "Poof������������������������������!"


    Suddenly, the Chimei Chess Sage spat out a mouthful of blood, staining the entire chessboard.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������!"


    A thunderbolt from the heavens shot down, a golden bolt of lightning striking the chessboard with a deafening roar, shattering it into dust.


    Amid the massive shockwave, the spectators didn''t panic or whisper among themselves. Instead, they collectively fell silent, staring at the two figures in astonishment.


    The focus was on the fresh blood at the corner of the Chimei Chess Sage''s mouth.


    Did I see that right? Is this real? Zhong Shan is too monstrous! He broke the board and even made the Chimei Chess Sage cough up blood?

 Chapter 858: Nine-Tailed Sky Fox

    <h4>Chapter 858: Nine-Tailed Sky Fox</h4>


    As a thunderbolt descended from the sky, a simr shock seemed to strike the minds of everyone present. It was as if they had all been struck dumb by a thunderbolt within their minds. The Feng Tomb Domain''s number one Chess Sage, the Chimei Chess Sage, had been forced to cough up blood over a single game of chess?


    Just like what had happened to Sima Zongheng back then, he too had been forced to cough up blood by a single game. How could anyone even y chess against him?


    "Uncle, isn''t this exactly what happened to you that day?" Sima Qianjun asked Sima Zongheng.


    Sima Zongheng, who had been in shock, seemed to find a moment of peace, yet immediately after, his chest felt even more stifled.


    "Young Prince, what do you make of this?" Mr. Li asked with a raised brow.


    "The Great Saint King of Dazheng, is he a practitioner of the Way of Chess?" Sima Qing asked curiously.


    "Su Afo, what''s happening?" the Nine-Tailed Princess asked Su Afo.


    "I''m not sure. It looks like the Chimei Chess Sage coughed up blood, and it seems like Zhong Shan won?" Su Afo said hesitantly.


    "Ugh, winning by cing pieces randomly? All those previous yers must have wasted their chess skills on dogs!" the Nine-Tailed Princess said disdainfully.


    Su Afo nodded in agreement. If other chess yers heard this, they''d probably cough up blood in anger.


    On the terrace, Zhong Shan looked at the Chimei Chess Sage. After the Chimei Chess Sage spat out a mouthful of blood, instead of looking defeated like Sima Zongheng did that day, he appeared to be in better spirits.


    His white hair and beard mysteriously began to change color, turning a faint green.


    "Hahaha...!" The Chimei Chess Sageughed heartily.


    Everyone found this strange. Could it be that the Chimei Chess Sage had gone mad from the blow of defeat?


    Earlier, people had thought that the news of Zhong Shan defeating the Chimei Chess Sage would cause a sensation in Qingqiu. Now it seemed the sensation would be even greater: Zhong Shan had driven the Chimei Chess Sage mad. This was big news.


    Zhong Shan stood up and looked seriously at the Chimei Chess Sage.


    As the Chimei Chess Sageughed, endless amounts of heaven and earth energy surged towards him. Zhong Shan even sensed the presence of luck and merit.


    The Chimei Chess Sage was using this to break through?


    After a heartyugh, the Chimei Chess Sage stood up and bowed deeply to Zhong Shan. "Mr. Zhong, you are incredibly talented. Thank you!"


    "Congrattions to the Chimei Chess Sage on breaking through to the Ancient Immortal realm!" Zhong Shan said with envy.


    Ancient Immortal! Beyond the Grand Immortal realm lies the Ancient Immortal realm. Such a level! And the Chimei Chess Sage had broken through because of a single game of chess?


    It was impossible for Zhong Shan not to be envious. Reflecting on his own progress, still lingering in the Third Heaven of the Heavenly Immortal stage, and seeing the Chimei Chess Sage be an Ancient Immortal from the same game, how could he not feel envious?


    In the Yang Realm, the Chimei Chess Sage had broken through to the Ancient Immortal realm. Meanwhile, in the Underworld, Nangong Sheng of the Heaven-Observing Pavilion had also just reached the Grand Immortal stage.


    "Nangong Sheng, Grand Immortal!" Zhong Shan looked at Nangong Sheng with satisfaction.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty, for your support!" Nangong Sheng bowed in gratitude.


    In the Yang Realm.


    "Congrattions to the Chimei Chess Sage on reaching the Ancient Immortal realm!" Mr. Li said.


    "Congrattions to the Chimei Chess Sage!" echoed the onlookers, all offering their congrattions.


    The Chimei Chess Sage nodded to the crowd and then turned to Zhong Shan. "Mr. Zhong, I am forever indebted to your assistance. The chessboard is broken, and I humbly admit defeat!"


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan with envy. This man was simply extraordinary.


    "Chimei Chess Sage, there''s no need for such praise. Now that your realm has advanced, if we were to y another game, it might be Zhong Shan who loses!" Zhong Shan quickly said.


    "No, I can see that from beginning to end, Mr. Zhong''s expression hasn''t fluctuated at all. He''s always been calm andposed, which means Mr. Zhong''s chess skills far surpass mine," the Chimei Chess Sage said sincerely.


    "Uh!" Zhong Shan was momentarily speechless. How should he exin this? Unmoved? Even if a hundred more moves were made, Zhong Shan''s expression wouldn''t change because it wasn''t him ying against the Chimei Chess Sage; it was Nangong Sheng in the Underworld.


    "Zhong Shan, well done! You''ve brought great honor to the Nine-Tailed Princess'' Mansion!" the Nine-Tailed Princess said excitedly as she flew over.


    "You''re too formidable!" Su Afo eximed as he flew over as well.


    The gazes of the surrounding experts were filled withplexity as they looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Mr. Li, I have a question," Sima Qing said, frowning.


    "Please ask, Young Prince."


    "What is the Sacred King thinking? Why is he allowing Zhong Shan such freedom?" Sima Qing asked in confusion.


    Mr. Li showed a bitter smile and said, "The emperor''s heart is difficult to fathom. The Sacred King must have his reasons!"


    Sima Qing gave Zhong Shan another deep look.


    In the distance, the Nine-Tailed Princess said proudly, "Chimei Chess Sage, your chess skills aren''t that impressive. You couldn''t even beat a retainer from my mansion. How can you call yourself the number one Chess Sage? I think that title should go to Zhong Shan!"


    "What the princess says is true. I am unworthy of the title of the number one Chess Sage. Mr. Zhong is indeed deserving of the title," the Chimei Chess Sage said with a calm smile, seemingly unconcerned with such titles.


    "Chimei Chess Sage, you are too modest. It was just a stroke of luck for me. However, I am curious about the true purpose of this Soul Game. Is it rted to the Ancient Immortal Secret Realm mentioned by the Zixiao Master?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    The Chimei Chess Sage gave Zhong Shan a deep look and nodded. "Yes, it is for that Ancient Immortal Secret Realm. Since you are from the Taichu Sacred Court, I will be straightforward. Moreover, this matter will likely fall upon you."


    "Oh?"


    The Chimei Chess Sage looked around at the other chess yers and said, "Since everyone hase here, it is fate. Let us watch one more game together."


    "Yes!" The chess yers responded in unison.


    "Mr. Zhong, pleasee with me," the Chimei Chess Sage said.


    With that, he led Zhong Shan upwards. As for the others, being allowed to stay was already an honor, so they waited on the surrounding peaks.


    At the peak of the highest mountain on the ind, where the Chimei Chess Sage had been standing earlier, the four of themnded.


    Surrounded by clouds and mist, visibility was limited to ten meters.


    The Chimei Chess Sage waved his hand, and a spell shot out, pushing the fog away in all directions. In an instant, the fog in the Sea of Mist receded, revealing a vast ocean dotted with numerous inds. Some inds had ck soil, others had white soil.


    With another wave of his hand, an ind in the depths of the sea surfaced, pitch-ck in color.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "This is the true ''Heavenly Cmity Chessboard.'' The one I set up earlier was just a part of it that Iprehended. Since the time of my master''s master, we''ve been trying to decipher it here, but it remains unsolved to this day. It is the most formidableyout. I hope Mr. Zhong can break it," the Chimei Chess Sage said.


    "The true Heavenly Cmity Chessboard?" Zhong Shan was shocked.


    "Really? The Chimei Chess Sage made such a spectacle out of just a part of the Heavenly Cmity Chessboard. What kind of monstrousplexity does the full version have?" Zhong Shan thought, his mind racing.


    "What''s the point of breaking the board?" the Nine-Tailed Princess asked.


    "Breaking the board will open the Ancient Immortal Secret Realm!" the Chimei Chess Sage said solemnly.


    "The Ancient Immortal Secret Realm? Which Ancient Immortal are we talking about?" the Nine-Tailed Princess asked, puzzled.


    "The first fox of our Qingqiu Fox n, a peerless powerhouse who once followed a Saint. After his fall, this ce became his tomb," the Chimei Chess Sage said, taking a deep breath.


    "You mean we''re grave robbing?" Su Afo asked, astonished.


    Grave robbing? The Chimei Chess Sage''s expression darkened slightly at Su Afo''s words.


    "That Ancient Immortal tasked our fox n with opening this secret realm. He wanted us to keep trying to break the board. His wish was for the fox n to enter the secret realm," the Chimei Chess Sage exined seriously.


    "Why would anyone ask their descendants to dig up their grave?" the Nine-Tailed Princess looked skeptical.


    The Chimei Chess Sage felt a pang of frustration. As an Ancient Immortal, did he really need to deceive these juniors? A single letter to the Taichu Sacred King would have them working tirelessly to break the board.


    Zhong Shan''s thoughts, however, went deeper than others.


    First, the Ziyang family''s Destiny Maniptor had told the Nine-Tailed Princess that she would receive great fortune after the Soul Game. This great fortune had yet to appear. Could it be rted to the opening of the Ancient Immortal Secret Realm?


    Second, why had the Zixiao Master suddenly appeared after tens of thousands of years? Could it be that the Zixiao Master had some ability to predict the future, or had someone hinted to him? Otherwise, why would he show up at this exact time?


    Third, Zhong Shan and Nangong Sheng seemed to have a significant chance of breaking the board.


    Was it fate that this Ancient Immortal Secret Realm would be opened?


    "Mr. Zhong, what do you think?" the Chimei Chess Sage asked Zhong Shan.


    "I will do my best," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Great, you suggest the moves, and I will ce them!" The Chimei Chess Sage was visibly excited.


    His master''s master had started studying this board. Now, in his generation, he had reached the pinnacle of the Way of Chess, yet he still couldn''t break it. As his lifespan neared its end, not only had he broken through the barrier to the Ancient Immortal realm, but he had also found someone who could break the board. Heaven had indeed favored him.


    Zhong Shan looked at theyout in front of him. It was identical to the one the Chimei Chess Sage had set up earlier, but the subsequent moves would certainly be different.


    In the underworld, Nangong Sheng had reached the Grand Immortal stage. His realm had advanced, but a new chessboard nowy before him.


    Breaking the Heavenly Cmity Chessboard again.


    High above the Mist Sea, a ck dot stood in the sky, observing everything below.


    It was the Zixiao Master who had retreated earlier.


    Standing on the void, the Zixiao Master watched coldly, observing every move below. The vast Mist Sea might obscure others'' vision, but it couldn''t hide anything from him.


    The Zixiao Master remained motionless, seemingly waiting for the final move, for the Ancient Immortal Secret Realm to be opened.


    "The Nine-Tailed Sky Fox''s tomb? The first sage of the Feng Tomb Domain, even in death, you are restless. Youid out this board for tens of thousands of years? What kind of monster are you? What exactly did you n?" the Zixiao Master muttered to himself.

 Chapter 859: Those Who Tamper with Fate, Die!

    <h4>Chapter 859: Those Who Tamper with Fate, Die!</h4>


    Over the Sea of Mist, an infinite number of golden lightning bolts erupted from the heavens. These violent golden lightning bolts seemed to possess an awe-inspiring power. From the distant stars, countless starlight beams were drawn down, transforming into golden mystical lightning that struck all around the Sea of Mist.


    Standing high in the sky, the Zixiao Master looked slightly astonished at the endless star power transforming into golden lightning.


    Bolts of golden lightning shot past him, each carrying an air of violent energy.


    The Zixiao Master reached out his right hand and caught a bolt of golden lightning.


    The moment the golden lightningnded in his palm, its violent power instantly shattered his right hand. However, as the Zixiao Master frowned, his shattered right hand quickly regenerated, simultaneously absorbing the golden lightning into his body.


    "Such violent celestial golden lightning!" the Zixiao Master eximed.


    Meanwhile, he looked down at the man directly below who was drawing out the endless celestial golden lightning��Zhong Shan!


    "The Great Saint King of Dazheng? Such profound skill in chess. The Nine-Tailed Sky Fox was known as the greatest sage of the Feng Tomb Domain. After tens of thousands of years, a game of ''Heavenly Cmity'' shocks the heavens and earth. Who would have thought that a game designed by the Nine-Tailed Sky Fox, who racked his brains to set up this unparalleled endgame, would be stalemated by a man less than a thousand years old? It even looks like he might solve it," the Zixiao Master mused, frowning.


    Below, Zhong Shan continued to direct the Chimei Chess Sage in making moves amidst the endless celestial golden lightning. Each move induced a sense of horror among the onlookers.


    Watching the violent impacts across the sea, almost all ordinary cultivators felt a shiver down their spines.


    Was this really a chess game? It seemed more like a game of life and death.


    A single misstep and the endless celestial golden lightning could surge onto the ind. And if it did, how many could survive?


    Zhong Shan was doing his utmost to solve the game.


    In the underworld, Nangong Sheng was also straining his mind to solve the true Heavenly Cmity Chessboard.


    Nangong Sheng''s hair was disheveled, and his eyes were filled with seriousness. The starry sky above his head was incredibly bright, though not as exaggerated as the celestial golden lightning descending in the Yang realm.


    A vast aura emanated from the Heaven-Observing Pavilion, attracting many powerful figures from Dazheng.


    Mud Buddha, Wang Ku, Yi Yan, and othersnded beside Zhong Shan.


    "Sacred King, what is happening?" Yi Yan asked, frowning.


    "Nangong Sheng is engaging in a game with a world-shaking endgame. Mud Buddha, set up a grand formation to disrupt the heavenly mechanisms and eliminate all anomalies," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," Mud Buddha replied, then swiftly retreated to carry out themand.


    "Wang Ku, scout the surroundings. Do not let anyone interfere. Apprehend anyone attracted by the anomalies," Zhong Shan continued.


    "Understood!" Wang Ku responded.


    "Sacred King, what is this?" Yi Yan asked, frowning.


    "Perhaps I am about to uncover a great secret," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    Nangong Sheng''s pace in the game was rapid, as if he had fully immersed himself in the chess realm. The calmness he had shown against the Chimei Chess Sage was nowpletely gone, indicating that the one who set up the true Heavenly Cmity Chessboard possessed terrifying chess skills that defied the heavens.


    This continued for a day and a night. After a day and a night, ck energy began to envelop Nangong Sheng''s face, as if shrouded in a sinister aura.


    Staring at the chessboard, Nangong Sheng could no longer make a move. He held a ck piece but did not ce it, continuing to stare at the board for another day and night. The ck energy around him grew thicker, enveloping himpletely.


    After another day and night without blinking, Nangong Sheng suddenly blinked, then closed his eyes and sat down cross-legged.


    Nangong Sheng was shrouded in ck energy, which gradually dissipated after another day and night. At this moment, Nangong Sheng''s previous weariness vanished, and he regained his formerposure.


    "Sacred King! I have reached my limit!" Nangong Sheng shook his head.


    "Limit?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, the game has reached this point, and with my current realm, I can no longer continue making moves. I can no longer control the whole board. I can''t ce any more pieces, and it''s evident that you in the Yang realm must feel the same," Nangong Sheng said.


    "Indeed, beyond the ind in the Yang realm, billions of celestial golden lightning bolts are gathered, holding a mysterious stance around the ind. The immense pressure is such that even the Ancient Immortal Chimei Chess Sage is extremely terrified. It seems as if, at any moment, those billions of celestial golden lightning bolts coulde crashing down upon us," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "One move to live, one move to die. The most crucial move. If ced correctly, the whole game will be resolved. If ced incorrectly, it will lead to earth-shattering destruction, and your body in the Yang realm will suffer greatly," Nangong Sheng said.


    "One move to live, one move to die?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes. In the past day, I have deduced two possible routes for this life-and-death move. One is at this star position, and the other is at this corner," Nangong Sheng pointed to the two positions.


    "These two positions? One is the ''life'' move, and the other is the ''death'' move?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes. cing this piece will result inpletely opposite oues. I cannot deduce any further," Nangong Sheng said solemnly.


    Zhong Shan nodded.


    In the Yang realm, Zhong Shan looked at the massive chessboard before him.


    Many of the chess yers present were filled with regret. Surrounded on all sides as if inside a giant egg, the endless celestial golden lightning bolts seemed ready to pour down upon them. This was not just a game of chess; it was a game of life.


    The Chimei Chess Sage also watched this scene with horror, his eyes shing with worry, but he did not interrupt Zhong Shan''s thoughts.


    Su Afo''s face was pale, while the Nine-Tailed Princess had full confidence in Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan examined the positions Nangong Sheng had indicated.


    Which one should he choose? The star position? As Zhong Shan considered cing the piece at the star position, his pupils suddenly contracted, because the Red Luan Pink Lotus at his brow turned dark blue.


    An ominous sign? That star position was not the right move.


    Turning, Zhong Shan looked at the corner position. As he considered cing the piece there, the Red Luan Pink Lotus did not turn blue but instead became slightly red.


    This was the spot.


    "Chimei Chess Sage, ce it there!" Zhong Shan pointed to the corner.


    Looking at the corner, the Chimei Chess Sage swallowed nervously and asked, "Are you sure? I already said that if we can''tprehend this now, we can take our time in the future. But if we make the wrong move, I can''t guarantee your safety!"


    "It won''t be wrong. Make the move," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    Perhaps Zhong Shan''s confidence influenced the Chimei Chess Sage. The Chimei Chess Sage nodded and, with a solemn hand gesture, pointed to the corner.


    A ck ind slowly rose from the sea.


    Everyone watched the ind nervously because they could all feel the critical moment, like a giant stone hanging over their heads, suspended by a thread.


    Many wanted to leave, to stop Zhong Shan, but the Chimei Chess Sage, with his Ancient Immortal cultivation, forcibly restrained everyone.


    No one was allowed to move. The Chimei Chess Sage''s methods might have been domineering, but considering his entire life��not just his own but those of his master, his master''s master, and countless generations before��after enduring such a long time, the solution was now in sight. Who could control themselves?


    With bated breath, everyone watched as the ck ind continued to rise.


    No one was allowed to disturb Zhong Shan!


    As the piece was ced, even the Chimei Chess Sage was drenched in cold sweat. The move was made, and the ck ind emerged.


    "Boom!"


    Amid everyone''s horror, the celestial golden lightning bolts exploded with a deafening roar.


    "Aaah!"


    A person with weak nerves screamed in terror. However, instead of crashing down on the crowd, the celestial golden lightning bolts reversed direction at a terrifying speed, shooting back up into the sky, heading straight for the distant stars.


    "Boom!"


    The terrifying beam of light shot up too quickly, reaching the infinite heights in an instant. The Zixiao Master, caught off guard, was engulfed by the endless golden lightning bolts.


    The Zixiao Master''s projection, which could withstand a single celestial golden lightning bolt, was now faced with billions. His projection was obliterated in an instant.


    Ten breathster, the Zixiao Master''s projection reformed from the purple lightning. This time, he appeared much more disheveled, ring hatefully at the sky before looking down.


    Below, the chess game had been broken. It had truly been solved.


    From the depths of the sea, two towering columns, each ten thousand feet high, rose up. At the center of the columns, nine different colors radiated, resembling the entrance to the holynd Zhong Shan had once seen in the Small Thousand World.


    "The Ancient Immortal''s secret realm has opened!" the Chimei Chess Sage eximed.


    With that, the Chimei Chess Sage stepped into the colossal entrance.


    "Zhong Shan, my fortune hase! Let''s go inside!" the Nine-Tailed Princess eximed excitedly.


    Su Afo naturally followed suit.


    In an instant, they rushed into the Ancient Immortal''s secret realm. On the ind, countless powerful figures, seeing the massive entrance, needed no further prompting and dove in one after another, entering the Ancient Immortal''s secret realm.


    Upon entering, Zhong Shan''s brows furrowed. This ce was indeed simr to the ''Longevity Realm'' and the ''Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss''.


    However, this world was extremely eerie, with a blood rain pouring from the sky. Torrential and endless, the blood rain emanated a sorrowful melody, resembling the scene of a Saint''s fall.


    What kind of world was this?


    Entering the Ancient Immortal''s secret realm, Zhong Shan grabbed the Nine-Tailed Princess and swiftly retreated to a distant spot, away from everyone''s sight to carefully observe this world.


    Indeed, it seemed to mimic the scene of a Saint''s fall. But it was merely an imitation, as Zhong Shan''s shadow body in the underworld did not witness the phenomena of heaven and earth mourning.


    "What kind of Ancient Immortal creates such a filthy environment?" the Nine-Tailed Princess remarked.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan''s expression changed because he suddenly heard a voice. A voice filled with despair and boundless grandeur.


    It was ''Qi Luck''. Due to the little Qi Luck Zhong Shan possessed, he could hear this ethereal voice.


    "Those who tamper with fate shall die! Die die die die die die die~~~~~~"


    The seven ''dies'' that followed were filled with infinite despair.

 Chapter 860: Su Daji

    <h4>Chapter 860: Su Daji</h4>


    "Those who tamper with the will of Heaven shall die! Die, die, die, die, die, die, die��������������������������!"


    The seven sessive "die" words resounded with an infinite sense of despair. The voice was grand and heartrending, filled with sorrow. It was a woman''s voice, one that should have been beautiful, yet now only exuded grief.


    The voice was ethereal, seemingly emanating from everywhere and nowhere, as if the entire world was filled with this mournful cry.


    In this boundless world, with no end in sight, where could the tomb of the ancient immortal be found?


    "Zhong Shan, did you hear that? ''Those who tamper with the will of Heaven shall die''?" Princess Nine Tails frowned.


    "You heard it too?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "What''s so strange about that?" Princess Nine Tails replied with a disdainful look.


    Suddenly, Princess Nine Tails opened her small mouth, and from it emerged a small bead emitting a faint white glow. The bead floated in the air, looking extremely mysterious.


    "What is this?"


    "This is what we retrieved over a month ago. It was left to me by my father. As expected, ites in handy here!" Princess Nine Tails looked at the bead with excitement.


    The bead floated in the air, then suddenly shot towards the north.


    "Chase it!" Princess Nine Tails eximed with delight.


    The two of them sped northward, flying for an entire day. The surroundings were still shrouded in a mist of blood, with indistinguishable directions. This ancient immortal''s secret realm was vast beyond measure.


    After a day, Zhong Shan suddenly felt a heavy weight on his heart, an inexplicable emotion washing over him.


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted. Despite his firm resolve, he was affected by this inexplicable emotion: sorrow, despair, and self-pity.


    He immediately steeled his mind.


    Just as they flew over a towering mountain, a hundred thousand miles high.


    "Zhong Shan, look!" Princess Nine Tails eximed.


    In the distance, a gigantic za came into view, with a towering mountain and a massive stone tablet at its center.


    One side of the mountain had a huge gate, with a colossal fox relief protruding from it.


    The massive fox had nine tails, which seemed to dance with the heavens, exuding a dominating presence.


    The face of the nine-tailed fox was split down the middle by the giant gate, with its left eye emitting a faint white glow, while its right eye was missing its pupil.


    A pupil?


    The bead left to Princess Nine Tails by her father shot towards the right eye of the nine-tailed fox with incredible speed.


    "Snap!"


    Zhong Shan swiftly flew forward, catching the white bead in his hand, preventing it from entering the fox''s eye.


    "Zhong Shan, what are you doing?" Princess Nine Tails asked in confusion.


    "Let''s take a closer look first. We''ll insert the bead into the nine-tailed fox''s eyeter," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Alright," Princess Nine Tails nodded.


    The two of them inspected the za. It appeared ordinary, with the secrets likely hidden within the mountain at the center and the stone tablet.


    "What does the stone tablet say? Could it be the name of the ancient immortal?" Princess Nine Tails asked, moving to the other side of the tablet to read it.


    Zhong Shan, holding the white bead, walked over as well.


    As he stood before the stone tablet, Zhong Shan read the inscription, his face suddenly changing, his heart pounding wildly.


    The stone tablet bore a vertical inscription:


    "Those who tamper with the will of Heaven shall die! Goddess Nuwa, die! Saint Zhunti, die! Saint Jieyin, die! Saint Tongtian, die! Saint Yuanshi, die! Saint Taishang, die! Ancestor Hongjun, die! Die, die, die, die, die, die, die!"


    The seven "die" characters referred to these seven saints. The blood rain striking the stone tablet added an ancient and deste aura to it.


    The fall of the seven saints? The death of the saints?


    It was said that these seven saints had fallen long ago, but no one knew how they had died. Was it because they tampered with the will of Heaven?


    Zhong Shan was deeply shocked. These seven great saints were not only known in the Fengzhong Territory; Zhong Shan had heard of them even in his childhood on Earth. Their primordial spirits were said to reside in the void, undying and indestructible. But upon arriving in the Great Thousand World, he learned that they had died, though no one knew how.


    The fall of the seven saints? Tampering with the will of Heaven?


    "Zhong Shan, is what this tablet says true?" Princess Nine Tails asked, her voice tinged with horror.


    "I don''t know!" Zhong Shan shook his head in shock.


    "Aren''t you a Saint King? How can you not know this?" Princess Nine Tails pouted.


    Zhong Shan, though speechless, focused more on the mountain at the center of the za. Whaty within it? Who was this ancient immortal?


    With a heavy heart, Zhong Shan approached the stone gate.


    He gently pressed the white glowing bead into the fox''s eye.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    A thunderous roar echoed from the sky as a blood-red lightning bolt struck the peak of the mountain.


    "Rumble!"


    With a deep rumble, the grand hall slowly opened. Inside, it was pitch ck, like the entrance to another small space.


    Before Zhong Shan could stop her, Princess Nine Tails stepped in, and he could only follow closely behind.


    They found themselves in a starry environment, with projections of countless stars all around. In the void ahead, there was a colossal figure.


    A thousand-zhang tall fox. No, it was the skeleton of a fox.


    A thousand-zhang tall fox skeleton sat in the void, with nine long tails extending from its back��a nine-tailed fox, a supreme demon fox.


    An immense pressure emanated from the skeleton, making it hard for Zhong Shan to breathe.


    A sense of ancient and profound weight.


    This was the skeleton of a nine-tailed fox, a true nine-tailed fox?


    It had long turned into this skeletal form, utterly dead.


    But eerie things happen when least expected. Just as they realized the nine-tailed fox skeleton was indeed dead, its eyes suddenly emitted a faint green glow.


    The moment the green light appeared, Zhong Shan''s great de, ''Changsheng,'' was already in his hand. Cold sweat dripped from his forehead as he stared at the enormous nine-tailed fox skeleton.


    "The secret realm has opened, and all that remains of me is this pile of bones. Sigh! Hundreds of thousands of years... my lingering consciousness has finally been rewarded. Atst, I can find relief."


    From the skeletal remains of the nine-tailed fox, a woman''s voice suddenly echoed, filled with both relief and sorrow.


    "Who are you?" Princess Nine Tails asked nervously.


    "Me? I''ve long forgotten the name I had as a member of the fox n. My soul once possessed a woman. My name is...," the lingering consciousness seemed to be lost in memories.


    "My name is Su Daji!" The voice seemed to be caught in a beautiful reminiscence.


    "Su Daji?" Princess Nine Tails appeared unfamiliar with the name.


    But Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted sharply upon hearing it. Su Daji? The infamous Su Daji who brought ruin to the country? It couldn''t be!


    Su Daji was supposed to be dead, wasn''t she? No, what was killed was her human body. She mentioned her soul once possessed a woman.


    "Are you the new Nine-Tails?" Su Daji''s lingering consciousness asked in confusion.


    "I am the Princess Nine Tails of the Qingqiu Taichu Holy Court!" Princess Nine Tails dered directly.


    "To have fallen to such a state, Heaven''s retribution can be escaped, but self-inflicted sins are inescapable. My Lady, is this the result you desired?" Su Daji''s voice was filled with resentment and sorrow.


    "Sins? My Lady? Are you referring to the sins of Nuwa?" Princess Nine Tails frowned.


    "Do not be disrespectful to My Lady!" Su Daji''s voice turned angry.


    "Uh!" Princess Nine Tails was left speechless. Zhong Shan, meanwhile, remained silent.


    "New Nine-Tails, you haven''t received the inheritance of the previous Nine-Tailed Sky Foxes. Let me pass it on to you across generations. Remember, you are the supreme of the fox n,manding all foxes under heaven!" Su Daji said solemnly.


    "Uh?" Princess Nine Tails frowned slightly and nced at Zhong Shan, as if not wanting him to know this secret of the fox n.


    Seeing Princess Nine Tails'' expression, Zhong Shan felt a bit helpless. Did she need to look at him like that? He had guessed as much from the first day he heard the name ''Nine Tails.''


    "Zhong Shan, go outside and guard for me!" Princess Nine Tails said.


    Zhong Shan gave the enormous skeletal remains of Su Daji a deep look and nodded. "Alright, I''ll wait outside and do my best to fend off intruders. But if the Chess Saint of Demons and Spiritses, I won''t be able to stop them!"


    "Okay!" Princess Nine Tails nodded, taking out three items with a flip of her hand: a ne, a ring, and a set of women''s gauze clothing.


    "These three great celestial artifacts are for you. Stop everyone except the Chess Saint of Demons and Spirits!" Princess Nine Tails ordered.


    "Understood!" Zhong Shan nodded, slowly retreating.


    As he left, Zhong Shan gave Su Daji onest look. He could sense that Su Daji seemed to have more to say but refrained due to his presence.


    Let''s wait a bit longer then. Why had she preserved thatst trace of consciousness for hundreds of thousands of years?


    "Boom!"


    The doors closed with a thunderous sound.


    Standing in the za, Zhong Shan looked at the three great celestial artifacts in his hand and felt a bit embarrassed. Other scattered cultivators might go through great lengths for a single celestial artifact, but Princess Nine Tails handed him three at once.


    Three great celestial artifacts? How were they supposed to be used? Zhong Shan knew how to refine them, but what then? Women''s gauze clothing? A ne? A ring?


    The thought of himself wearing women''s gauze clothing and essories in battle gave Zhong Shan a shudder.


    No matter. After all, Princess Nine Tails had a grand family background. The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail suddenly appeared and swallowed the three celestial artifacts. Then it returned to Zhong Shan''s Niwan Pce.


    The vast energy quickly got absorbed, with the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail converting arge amount of it and infusing it into Zhong Shan''s body.


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes and took several deep breaths, fully enhancing his cultivation. After a stick of incense''s time, Zhong Shan opened his eyes again, a look of speechlessness shing in them.


    Three great celestial artifacts had only raised his cultivation by one tier? Celestial Immortal Fourth Tier?


    Just the fourth tier of Celestial Immortal required three great celestial artifacts. How would he manage in the future?


    As Zhong Shan pondered his future cultivation challenges, a massive purple thunderbolt descended from the sky, aiming straight for him with a deadly force.

 Chapter 861: The Heavenly Punishment Extinguishes the Cult Leader

    <h4>Chapter 861: The Heavenly Punishment Extinguishes the Cult Leader</h4>


    A massive purple lightning bolt descended from the sky, striking directly at Zhong Shan. It came with an overwhelming momentum, as if determined to kill Zhong Shan in an instant.


    Zhong Shan looked up coldly, staring straight at the lightning. Just as the lightning was about to reach within a meter of him, arge amount of lightning suddenly surrounded Zhong Shan. A dense purple lightning sphere formed around him and met the iing lightning.


    There was no sound of collision. The iing lightning struck the purple lightning sphere around Zhong Shan, twisted, and was absorbed into it, disappearing without a trace.


    The lightning around Zhong Shan dissipated, but he did not rx.


    "Is this the true nature of the esteemed leader of the Purple Sky Sect? Acting like a coward in the Soul Duel, and still not having enough? Or is it that you are inherently a coward?" Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    "The Sacred King of the Great Yi?" A thunderous voice echoed across thend.


    A massive pressure descended from the sky, pressing down directly on Zhong Shan.


    "I hold the ''Life Position'' of the heaven and earth. You are merely a projection. Do you think such pressure can suppress me?" Zhong Shan retorted firmly.


    In the distance, the figure of the Purple Sky Sect Leader slowly materialized on the za.


    "The Heavenly Cmity Chessboard. The Sacred King of the Great Yi has impressive means indeed. The grand array painstakingly set up by the world''s number one demon fox was broken by you, and you were the first to locate the grave of the Nine-Tailed Fox. You are more formidable than I imagined," the Purple Sky Sect Leader said calmly.


    "Did the Purple Sky Sect Leader only realize this today?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "After you opened the heavens back then and retreated safely despite facing over two hundred great immortals, I knew that keeping you alive would be a disaster sooner orter! Unfortunately, someone told me not to touch you. Otherwise, I would have eradicated you that day!" the Purple Sky Sect Leader said sternly.


    "Someone told you not to touch me?" Zhong Shan squinted his eyes.


    Who? Who could influence the decisions of the Purple Sky Sect Leader?


    The Purple Sky Sect Leader also nced at a nearby stone stele. Seeing the words on it, his expression changed, and a trace of urgency shed in his eyes. Secrets of the Sages?


    "Enough. Step aside now," the Purple Sky Sect Leadermanded.


    "What an imposing manner the Purple Sky Sect Leader has. Do you think I, Zhong Shan, will be ordered around by you?" Zhong Shan scoffed.


    With a cold look at Zhong Shan, the Purple Sky Sect Leader said indifferently, "Although I agreed not to harm you, do not provoke my bottom line repeatedly."


    From the Purple Sky Sect Leader''s gaze, Zhong Shan saw a hint of killing intent, as if he hoped Zhong Shan would continue to provoke him.


    "Since no one else will know, if you really want to make a move, then do it. Provoking me will only degrade your status! Let''s see how powerful your projection really is!" Zhong Shan said disdainfully.


    "Hmph!" The Purple Sky Sect Leader sneered.


    With a gesture, he pointed at Zhong Shan, and a small lightning sphere appeared at the tip of his finger.


    "Crackle..."


    As the small lightning sphere appeared, countless lightning bolts from all directions gathered rapidly. In an instant, the roaring lightning engulfed the surroundings, filling the sky with electric threads.


    The terrifying lightning storm obscured the sky and instantly drowned the surroundings in a sea of lightning.


    Is this the power of mighty celestial techniques? Zhong Shan observed as endless lightningws and rules surged from all directions, seemingly obeying the Purple Sky Sect Leader''smand in an instant.


    Ten thousand bolts of lightning surged toward Zhong Shan. The terrifying concentration of lightning would instantly kill even the strongest of celestial beings. But would Zhong Shan sumb?


    Zhong Shan coldly smiled and said, "A projection is just a projection. Without a ''world,'' how can you speak of victory?"


    "Boom!"


    In the high sky, a series of thunderous roars sounded. The originally blood-red sky suddenly changed, transforming into a faintly purple sky. The lightning gathered by the Purple Sky Sect Leader seemed unaffected and continued to umte more and more.


    "It''s useless. You celestial beings will never understand our realm. A world? Even if you possess a ''world,'' so what? Within your world, I can still manipte thews of thunder. All lightning is at mymand. Die!" the Purple Sky Sect Leader said coldly.


    As he spoke, he pushed his finger forward, and the small lightning sphere, carrying an immense lightning storm, rushed directly toward Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly.


    "Bang!"


    The massive lightning storm suddenly dispersed as if a terrifying suction force drew it up into the sky. Even the small lightning sphere pointed out by the Purple Sky Sect Leader was suddenly sucked into the clouds and disappeared.


    The Purple Sky Sect Leader''s expression changed.


    "Purple Sky Sect Leader, actually, I am most proficient in lightning techniques!" Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    The Purple Sky Sect Leader clearly did not expect his lightning storm to be so effortlessly neutralized.


    "No, the world of a celestial being, no, even a great celestial being''s ''world'' shouldn''t be able to break my ''lightning storm.'' There is something strange about your world," the Purple Sky Sect Leader said with a frown.


    "In my ''Divine Realm,'' I am supreme. No one can use my things in my world, not even you. A purple lightning projection? Since your body is made of gathered lightning, let it be part of my Divine Realm''s power!" Zhong Shan waved his hand.


    "Bang!"


    Suddenly, countless lightning bolts surrounded the Purple Sky Sect Leader, rotating rapidly around him. These lightning bolts were not summoned by the Purple Sky Sect Leader but controlled by Zhong Shan.


    Countless lightning bolts swirled around the Purple Sky Sect Leader, forming a massive maic field with a terrifying suction force, pulling at his body.


    "Crackle!"


    Arge number of lightning threads shot out from the Purple Sky Sect Leader''s body. As a projection, his form wasposed of infinite lightning, which Zhong Shan was now stripping away.


    The Purple Sky Sect Leader was startled by the scene before him, never expecting Zhong Shan to be so proficient in lightning maic techniques, able to break his projection body.


    "Courting death!" the Purple Sky Sect Leader roared angrily. With a flick of his sleeve, he mmed his palm toward the surrounding maic field.


    "Boom!"


    With a terrifying force, the Purple Sky Sect Leader''s palm disrupted the lightning maic field, creating a giant starburst-like explosion that illuminated the surroundings. In an instant, it seemed as if the entire Divine Realm was filled with explosive lightning, shaking violently as if it might be torn apart by the lightning storm.


    "I believe it''s you who are courting death!" Zhong Shan''s voice suddenly came from within the storm.


    The Purple Sky Sect Leader turned to look, and at that moment, a massive eye, ten thousand feet wide, suddenly opened in the void behind him. The pupil, filled with lightning threads, was the Eye of Heavenly Punishment.


    "Boom!"


    The Purple Sky Sect Leader''s body exploded, turning into endless purple lightning, which was absorbed by the Eye of Heavenly Punishment.


    The terrifying Eye of Heavenly Punishment had managed to ''look'' the Purple Sky Sect Leader to death with a single nce.


    The surrounding lightning gradually receded, and the world reappeared, restoring the Divine Realm to its original state. Zhong Shan stood before the Eye of Heavenly Punishment, nodded, and stepped out of the Divine Realm.


    The projection of the Purple Sky Sect Leader had unexpectedly died so miserably at Zhong Shan''s hands.


    At the same time, above the Purple Sky Dojo, an endless sea of meritorious clouds roared, with massive lightning bolts exploding in all directions.


    "The Cult Leader is enraged? It''s been tens of thousands of years since hest showed true anger. Who could have provoked him?" Many disciples looked up at the sky in astonishment.


    Meanwhile, in front of Su Daji''s tomb, Zhong Shan reappeared on the za.


    The projection of the ancient immortal, in terms of strength, was onlyparable to someone who had just entered the realm of great immortals. Without magical treasures and without a ''world,'' relying solely on experienced celestial techniques? In the Divine Realm, no matter how many celestial techniques you possess, you can only be nourishment for the Divine Realm.


    Having killed the projection of the Purple Sky Sect Leader, Zhong Shan felt no satisfaction because he knew that the destruction of the projection merely signaled the imminent arrival of the true body. It wouldn''t be long before the Purple Sky Sect Leader arrived in person. He hoped that Princess Nine-Tails would hurry.


    With a heavy heart, Zhong Shan continued to guard Daji''s tomb.


    An hourter, another immense aura swept over.


    "Boom!"


    A strong wind swept across, stirring up arge amount of blood rain.


    Zhong Shan looked up. Sima Zongheng stared solemnly at the entire za.


    Seeing the huge stone stele, he raised an eyebrow, then looked down at Zhong Shan. When he saw Zhong Shan, Sima Zongheng''s eyes turned cold and sharp.


    "Sage King Zhong, what great fortune you have to find this ce. What''s inside?" Sima Zonghengnded on the za.


    "It''s none of your business!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Sima Zongheng''s expression changed suddenly.


    "Princess Nine-Tails, is she inside? What''s in there?" Sima Zongheng demanded.


    "I told you, it''s none of your business. Leave the way you came!" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Hahaha, Zhong Shan, who do you think you are? Do you think you''re still in the Great Yi? Are you still a Sage King? You''re just a prisoner. A celestial being? Hmph!" Sima Zongheng said sternly.


    The ''Longevity'' great de had already appeared in Zhong Shan''s hand.


    Blocking Sima Zongheng was still within Zhong Shan''s capability. After all, Sima Zongheng had recently had his Dao heart shattered by Zhong Shan, significantly weakening his strength.


    Sima Zongheng squinted, reaching out to take a fiery red great de and a red longsword.


    The longsword was tossed up, flying around Sima Zongheng, focusing a powerful sword intent on Zhong Shan.


    "Let''s see how powerful the Sage King of the Great Yi really is!" Sima Zongheng sneered.


    As he spoke, he shed at Zhong Shan with the red great de, which instantly grew to a thousand feet in size. The scorching heat, like the fire from the earth''s core, rushed towards Zhong Shan.


    Heavenly Waves, Ten Thousand Layers!


    Zhong Shan countered with a sh, the terrifying cold from the Longevity de rushing forward like the chilling breath from a dark spring. The bone-chilling cold froze the blood rain and the earth as the de cut through.


    One cold, one hot, the two extreme energies shed violently.


    At this moment, the red longsword beside Sima Zongheng also transformed into a crimson streak, shing towards Zhong Shan.


    Main and secondary weapons, Sima Zongheng''s two celestial weapons disyed their formidable power. But in terms of magical treasures, would Zhong Shan be inferior to Sima Zongheng?

 Chapter 862: The Mighty Zhong Shan

    <h4>Chapter 862: The Mighty Zhong Shan</h4>


    Just as Sima Zongheng''s longsword was about to strike Zhong Shan, a ten-meter-tall jade seal suddenly appeared above the sword. It was the Fang Tian Jade Seal. The moment it descended, an emperor''s aura, a suppressive force over the entire world, emanated from it.


    Sima Zongheng was startled.


    In Sima Zongheng''s mind, Zhong Shan only had that great de as his celestial weapon. But the aura of this jade seal? A terrifying aura pressed down, even causing Sima Zongheng to feel a tremor in his heart.


    A celestial weapon, absolutely a celestial weapon! This jade seal is also a celestial weapon?


    "Boom!"


    The Fang Tian Jade Seal collided fiercely with the longsword. The tremendous force from the collision drove the longsword deep into the ground, disappearing instantly.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan and Sima Zongheng''s great des shed. Both des seemed to bring forth different worlds��one hot, one cold. In the collision, the surrounding mountains shattered.


    In the distance, some areas froze into icebergs while others turned into fields of magma. The surroundings were all reduced to ruins, except for Daji''s tomb behind Zhong Shan, which remained untouched.


    The first sh resulted in a draw? No, with the longsword driven underground, Sima Zongheng realized in horror that he was actually at a slight disadvantage.


    How is this possible? He is just a celestial being.


    The longsword emerged from the ground again, circling around Sima Zongheng. Coldly staring at Zhong Shan, Sima Zongheng couldn''t believe how strong Zhong Shan was.


    Had he been hiding his strength all along? Since the opening of the heavens, he had been concealing his power? But the Sage King couldn''t be mistaken. How could a celestial being of the second heaven realm contend with a great celestial?


    Unless, unless he was one of those unparalleled fierce individuals, possessing an innate ferocity that allowed them to perform extraordinarily in battle.


    Is Zhong Shan one of those fierce individuals?


    No, after the opening of the heavens, he immediately chose to submit. Is he really a fierce individual?


    Sima Zongheng, standing at a distance, had a look of suspicion in his eyes. Zhong Shan held the great de in his right hand and the Fang Tian Jade Seal in his left.


    Fighting a great celestial? Zhong Shan indeed felt no pressure. He had so many trump cards that a single great celestial couldn''t trouble him. For instance, in the past, only ancient immortals could break through the barrier of the Yang Realm in the Minor Thousand World, but Zhong Shan, even as a mortal, could tear it open with the power of the world at his disposal. Now, as a celestial being, could he not handle a great celestial with a broken Dao heart?


    In the past, why didn''t the Lingxiao Heavenly Court act? Simply to secure the position of the Great Yi in the heavenly realms.


    Although Zhong Shan could contend with a great celestial, he couldn''t prevent their destruction. To protect the Great Yi, Zhong Shan had to choose submission.


    Sima Zongheng, having had his Dao heart broken by Zhong Shan, was still a great celestial. If Zhong Shan couldn''t handle him, it would be unworthy of his title as a Sage King.


    It was just the situation that kept Zhong Shan from delivering a killing blow. And Zhong Shan didn''t need to reveal much. For people like Sima Zongheng, it wasn''t necessary to expose everything.


    "Hmph..."


    Sima Zongheng couldn''t believe it. As a great celestial, facing a mere celestial being, an insurmountable gap existed. How could he possibly win? Was it because he was careless?


    Sima Zongheng stretched out his hand, and the surrounding world changed. Under the azure sky, an ancient green pine tree, towering to the heavens, suddenly stood behind Sima Zongheng.


    Sima Zongheng''s world materialized.


    But Zhong Shan, also possessing a world, stood unafraid. Behind Zhong Shan, the sky turned purple, revealing the Divine Realm once more.


    The two worlds seemed to interlock, with Zhong Shan standing in the Divine Realm, harnessing its power, while Sima Zongheng did the same with his world.


    "How can a celestial''s world be so stable..." Sima Zongheng remarked with a raised eyebrow.


    "Your world is just too weak!" Zhong Shan retorted disdainfully.


    "Hmph, arrogant..." Sima Zongheng responded coldly. He then shed at Zhong Shan with his great de, his longsword unleashing endless sword energy.


    Zhong Shan smiled coldly and engaged Sima Zongheng in battle. Their shsted nearly a full day.


    The two worlds collided, creating chaos. Rivers flowed backward, and everything shattered into pieces.


    Sima Zongheng couldn''t gain the upper hand. With his Dao heart broken, he grew increasingly agitated as he was suppressed over time.


    Once again, he struck with his fiery great de, which, amplified by the wood element energy of his world, transformed into a zing sun descending upon Zhong Shan.


    The longsword tangled with the Fang Tian Jade Seal.


    The great de, Longevity, rose to meet it, resembling a giant moon. The two des collided fiercely again.


    Under the terrifying energy sh, Sima Zongheng became desperate. Taking a risk and sustaining internal injuries, he thrust his left hand toward Zhong Shan.


    A fiery red palm, carrying apocalyptic power, aimed to turn Zhong Shan into ashes.


    In Sima Zongheng''s mind, Zhong Shan might be fierce, but his physical body shouldn''tpare to that of a great celestial, right?


    A palm strike with destructive power ensued.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold. Extending his left hand, a silver palm appeared in the void, surrounded by clouds and faint runes. The silver palm met Sima Zongheng''s fiery red palm. The Heaven-Opening Palm!


    "Boom!" Both worlds dissipated simultaneously��one by choice, the other forcibly.


    Zhong Shan put away the Fang Tian Jade Seal and the Longevity great de, flicking his sleeve nonchntly as he looked into the distance.


    Sima Zongheng flew through the ruins, eventually crashing into a distant mountain, causing it to copse.


    Dust and debris covered the ruins. When the dust settled, a weakened Sima Zongheng was revealed.


    His left hand was broken, his body covered in blood, and his face pale with defeat. Looking at Zhong Shan from afar, a look of terror shed in his eyes.


    How could this be? A simple sh of palms.


    A great celestial lost to a celestial in a direct confrontation? How could this happen?


    Sima Zongheng couldn''t believe it, but his body felt as if his bones were shattered, unable to move. His eyes were filled with terror.


    "Sima Zongheng? Just so," Zhong Shan said disdainfully.


    "Poof..."


    In the distance, Sima Zongheng spat out a mouthful of blood. His Dao heart was already broken, and now, beaten by a mere celestial and mocked with "just so," even his bestposure couldn''t prevent him from coughing up blood in anger.


    "Huff! Huff!" Suddenly, several figures flew over.


    One by one, they arrived. Seeing the ruins before them, almost everyone was stunned.


    Ruins? The massive battlefield ruins? Great celestial Sima Zongheng? Celestial Zhong Shan?


    Zhong Shan had defeated Sima Zongheng? How could this be?


    Among the group of arriving people were Sima Qianjun and Sima Qing. Sima Qing raised an eyebrow, while Sima Qianjun rushed towards the ruins.


    "Second Uncle, are you alright?" Sima Qianjun quickly retrieved a pill and fed it to Sima Zongheng.


    Sima Qing didn''t pay further attention to Sima Zongheng. Instead, he looked past Zhong Shan towards the mountain behind him, noticing a gate at the mountain''s base with a nine-tailed fox sculpture above it.


    Seeing the sculpture, a gleam appeared in Sima Qing''s eyes. Without exchanging more words with Zhong Shan, Sima Qing''s eyes suddenly turned slightly green. But just as quickly, they returned to normal because at that moment, Mr. Fox arrived with anotherrge group.


    Zhong Shan observed keenly. In that fleeting moment when Sima Qing''s eyes turned green, a soul-captivating power emanated. It was a pupil technique.


    Sima Qing had tried to use a pupil technique against him but was interrupted by Mr. Fox''s arrival.


    Mr. Fox, upon arriving, also nced at the weakened Sima Zongheng, slightly surprised but quickly pieced together the situation.


    "Zhong Shan, what''s inside the mountain behind you? Where is the princess?" Mr. Fox asked.


    "The princess is inside the mountain..." Sima Qing also asked.


    "Everyone, please wait. The princess wille out to see you all soon," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Just as the crowd was about to speak again, a sudden voice interrupted.


    "You''re a tough guy, aren''t you exaggerating? It''s said you''re only at the second level of the celestial realm? You beat Sima Zongheng like this? Are you even human?" It was Su Afo''s voice. As soon as Su Afo arrived, he witnessed the astonishing scene of the dignified great celestial Sima Zongheng being beaten with broken bones by Zhong Shan. It was incredible. Su Afo felt he had missed a great show.


    "Su Afo, what are you saying?" Sima Qianjun snapped angrily. Su Afo casually nced at Sima Qianjun, then eagerly looked back at Zhong Shan, his disregard infuriating Sima Qianjun.


    "Zhong Shan, what''s inside the mountain? If you don''t tell us, we''ll go in ourselves," Mr. Fox said.


    The surrounding experts were all eager, especially Sima Qing, whose eyes were filled with longing.


    "The princess is inside receiving what belongs to her. Please do not approach. Zhong Shan will not make things difficult for everyone," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "Young Lord, there must be a great treasure inside. My battle with Zhong Shan hassted a day and a night, and Princess Nine-Tails has yet toe out. We must break into the mountain quickly!" Sima Zongheng said weakly.


    Hearing this, everyone knew it was a significant matter. A group of experts took to the sky, their imposing auras pressing down on Zhong Shan, as if ready to subdue him and charge into the mountain.


    "Boom!"


    A ten-meter-thick blood lightning suddenly descended from the sky, carrying a powerful, corruptive destructive force, heading straight for Sima Qing.


    Sima Qing''s expression changed, and he struck upward with his palm.


    "Boom!"


    Sima Qing''s palm shattered the blood lightning, but the powerful shockwave knocked him down a thousand meters, while the other experts were also thrown off bnce by the aftershock.


    Everyone was astonished, not only by the blood lightning but also by Sima Qing''s strength.


    How powerful was Sima Qing?


    Zhong Shan looked up at the sky. This blood lightning wasn''t his doing but came from the blood clouds above. Was it Su Daji? Was Su Daji attacking Sima Qing?


    "What are you all doing?" A sudden shout echoed from all directions, it was the voice of the Chess Sage Meimei.


    In the center of the group, the figure of the Chess Sage Meimei appeared out of thin air,manding a presence that stunned everyone.

 Chapter 863: The Altar of Heaven and Earth

    <h4>Chapter 863: The Altar of Heaven and Earth</h4>


    "What are you all doing?" A sudden shout echoed from all directions��it was the voice of Chess Sage Chimei.


    In the center of the crowd, the figure of Chess Sage Chimei appeared out of thin air, his sudden presence intimidating everyone.


    Standing in front of everyone, Chess Sage Chimeimanded respect. No one dared to act recklessly. An ancient immortal was not someone that even great celestials could easily defy.


    Sima Qing and the others frowned, casting cold nces at Zhong Shan.


    Chess Sage Chimei quickly assessed the situation and the peculiar surroundings. The mountain behind Zhong Shan, with its relief of the Nine-Tailed Fox, was clearly the focus of everyone''s attention.


    Turning his head, Chess Sage Chimei looked at the mountain with gravity. Had they found the ancient immortal''s tomb?


    "Whoosh!" Zhong Shan suddenly stepped in front of Chess Sage Chimei.


    "Mr. Zhong?" Chess Sage Chimei''s eyes shed with confusion.


    "The ancient immortal is currently conversing with Princess Nine-Tails. It''s best not to disturb that senior!" Zhong Shan said.


    Everyone''s expression changed.


    The ancient immortal is conversing with Princess Nine-Tails? Isn''t this an ancient immortal''s tomb? Isn''t the ancient immortal dead? Conversing? Are you kidding?


    Some of the impulsive experts from before began to feel a tightness in their chests, realizing they had been blinded by Sima Zongheng''s words about a great treasure.


    "That senior? Princess Nine-Tails?" Chess Sage Chimei''s eyes lit up, clearly understanding something.


    Nodding to Zhong Shan, Chess Sage Chimei said, "Mr. Zhong, what you said is of great importance to the eternal prosperity of the fox n. How about it?"


    Taking a deep breath, Chess Sage Chimei solemnly bowed to Zhong Shan and said, "Thank you for your earlier intervention, Mr. Zhong. I, Chimei, will remember this favor. From now on, I will guard this ce. No one shall take another step forward."


    As he spoke, Chess Sage Chimei''s body exuded a majestic aura.


    Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Absurd!" A sudden angry shout rang out.


    Everyone looked over to see Sima Qianjun, supporting Sima Zongheng, standing behind Sima Qing. Sima Qing did not stop him, clearly indicating his consent.


    "This ancient immortal''s tomb is at least eight hundred thousand years old. How can you say the ancient immortal inside is still alive? Except for the sages, whose lifespans are endless, anyone below them experiences the five decays of heaven and man. At least eight hundred thousand years? How long can an ancient immortal live? Zhong Shan, you''re lying!" Sima Qianjun shouted.


    Hearing Sima Qianjun''s words, nearly everyone nodded in agreement.


    The maximum lifespan of a mortal is ten thousand years. For a human celestial, it''s twenty thousand years; for a profound celestial, forty thousand years; for an earth celestial, eighty thousand years; for a heavenly celestial, one hundred sixty thousand years; and for a great celestial, three hundred twenty thousand years. An ancient immortal only has a lifespan of six hundred forty thousand years. Yet, this tomb has existed for eight hundred thousand years.


    Zhong Shan imed it housed an ancient immortal, but the ancient immortal should have long been dead. How could it be conversing with Princess Nine-Tails?


    This was highly unreasonable. Everyone''s gaze turned to Zhong Shan, even Chess Sage Chimei showed a hint of doubt in his eyes.


    Zhong Shan ignored the others and addressed Chess Sage Chimei directly.


    "Chess Sage Chimei, you can question others entering, but what is there to question about Princess Nine-Tails entering? Don''t you hope what I said is true?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Chess Sage Chimei''s expression changed, and the doubt in his eyes vanished. He resolutely turned to the others and said, "Everyone, don''t overthink this. As long as I am here, no one will step inside!"


    "Chess Sage Chimei, Zhong Shan is clearly lying. No one has seen what''s inside. This must be..." Sima Qianjun continued.


    Chess Sage Chimei''s eyes turned cold, and a powerful aura of intimidation silenced Sima Qianjun, cutting off his speech immediately.


    "With Princess Nine-Tails inside, I am assured!" Chess Sage Chimei said coldly.


    His words forced everyone to suppress their curiosity, though it left them feeling frustrated.


    "Princess Nine-Tails has entered, and Chess Sage Chimei is so confident?" A long, calm voice suddenly echoed from the void.


    Upon hearing this voice, Chess Sage Chimei''s expression changed abruptly.


    "Whoosh!"


    A light breeze blew by, and two figures appeared in the void.


    Both were d in purple robes. The leader was none other than the true body of the Purple Sky Sect Leader, with another purple-robed person behind him, clearly his subordinate. However, given that this subordinate arrived alongside the Purple Sky Sect Leader, their strength must be formidable.


    "Purple Sky Sect Leader? You''ve arrived in person?" Chess Sage Chimei said in surprise.


    "Who wouldn''t, after their projection was destroyed?" the Purple Sky Sect Leader replied indifferently, his tone carrying a hint of coldness as he stared directly at Zhong Shan below.


    Zhong Shan?


    Seeing the Purple Sky Sect Leader''s gaze, nearly everyone was taken aback. Zhong Shan again? Did he destroy the Purple Sky Sect Leader''s projection?


    The experts who had initially nned to confront Zhong Shan felt a chill run down their spines.


    Zhong Shan was terrifying. He had killed a Sect Leader''s projection? If they had attacked him earlier, would Zhong Shan have spared them? Unlikely.


    Even though it was just a projection, the Purple Sky Sect Leader''s projection possessed the power of a great celestial. Yet, Zhong Shan had annihted it.


    Sima Zongheng''s eyes were filled withplexity. He had found Zhong Shan quickly, meaning the battle with the Purple Sky Sect Leader couldn''t havested long. Zhong Shan had fought him for a day��was it just to humiliate him?


    Sima Zongheng looked at Zhong Shan with increasing suspicion.


    "The Purple Lightning Projection, said to be indestructible as long as the true body lives, was destroyed. Who has the ability to break the myth of the Purple Sky Sect Leader?" Another voice echoed from the void, this time grand but indistinguishable in gender. Many recognized this voice.


    The Purple Sky Sect Leader frowned, while Chess Sage Chimei''s face rxed. Mr. Fox and the others showed signs of respect.


    In an instant, another figure appeared before the crowd, wearing a silver mask and a white robe. It was the Sacred King Taichu.


    "Greetings to the Sacred King! May the Sacred King enjoy eternal blessings and longevity equal to the heavens!" The ministers of Taichu greeted respectfully.


    Upon arrival, Sacred King Taichu, through his mask, focused on the Purple Sky Sect Leader. Another formidable presence had arrived,plicating the situation further.


    "Reporting to the Sacred King, the Purple Sky Sect Leader''s projection attempted to meddle with the secrets of Qingqiu, but Mr. Zhong thwarted him," Chess Sage Chimei immediately spoke up for Zhong Shan.


    "The Sacred King?" Sacred King Taichu looked at Zhong Shan, slightly surprised.


    Clearly, Sacred King Taichu could see through Zhong Shan''s strength at a nce. But with just that strength, he had destroyed the so-called indestructible Purple Lightning Projection?


    "Sacred King, Zhong Shan also injured my second uncle!" Sima Qianjun quickly interjected.


    "Silence!" Sima Qing scolded coldly.


    "Young Lord?" Sima Qianjun was confused.


    "You are not in a position to speak here," Sima Qing shook his head.


    Indeed, to speak out here? Who were the people conversing now? They were either ancient immortals or held the ''Life Position'' in the heaven and earth. What was Sima Qianjun inparison?


    Chess Sage Chimei also looked at Zhong Shan with slight bewilderment. When did Mr. Zhong be Zhong Sacred King?


    Sacred King?


    "Zhong Shan was merely performing his duty! Sacred King Taichu, should we first remove the ''outsiders'' before discussing anything further?" Zhong Shan suggested, looking at Sacred King Taichu.


    Sacred King Taichu gave Zhong Shan a deep look, then turned to the Purple Sky Sect Leader, "Purple Sky Sect Leader, please leave."


    "Hahahaha, outsiders? Who are the outsiders? Has Great Yi truly be one with Taichu? But who says this ancient immortal''s tomb belongs to Taichu? Leave? I think it''s you who should leave!" The Purple Sky Sect Leaderughed loudly.


    As he spoke, a tremendous oppressive force descended. The aura of the Heaven and Earth''s ''Life Position'' filled the area, inducing fear in the hearts of the strong cultivators, who began to retreat. They knew they couldn''t intervene now and risk bing casualties of the confrontation.


    In the void, beneath the Purple Sky Sect Leader, a gigantic, ancient-looking altar appeared, covered with numerous floating runes. This altar emanated an aura of antiquity and vastness, inspiring a sense of reverence and worship, as if it represented the heavens and everything within them.


    This was the Purple Sky Sect Leader''s stance, a domineering one that imed everything within the ancient immortal''s tomb for himself.


    The ''Life Position'' of Heaven and Earth��wasn''t the Taichu Sacred King also one?


    Beneath Sacred King Taichu''s feet, a massive altar suddenly manifested as well. Standing on the altar, the sky above changed dramatically, and a powerful aura stirred up fierce winds in all directions.


    Another person standing on an altar was Zhong Shan!


    At this moment, an altar also appeared beneath Zhong Shan''s feet. Standing atop it, he seemed to represent the heavens, lofty and supreme.


    These were the ''Life Position'' altars, manifestations of the Heaven and Earth''s ''Life Position'' upon reaching this level.


    The three individuals with the ''Life Position'' red coldly at each other.


    Chess Sage Chimei kept a wary eye on the subordinate brought by the Purple Sky Sect Leader, who seemed as formidable as an ancient immortal, making Chess Sage Chimei extremely cautious.


    The Purple Sky Sect Leader nced at the other two on their Heaven and Earth altars, a faint smile ying on his lips.


    "To step onto the ''Life Position'' altar, countless bones have been buried. Even ancient immortals have fallen in the process, yet countless strong individuals still strive for it. And here you are, a mere celestial standing firmly on the altar, Zhong Sacred King. You truly have heaven-defying luck," the Purple Sky Sect Leader said coldly.


    "Even sages can fall. What of you, Purple Sky Sect Leader? Excessive arrogance will only pull you down from the Heaven and Earth altar. Be careful!" Zhong Shan warned.


    "Hahaha, that''s exactly what I should be telling you. Let''s see how capable the Sacred King of Great Yi truly is," the Purple Sky Sect Leader said, reaching out with a cold shout.


    "Purple Sky Sect Leader, you must show respect. This is still Taichu territory, and Zhong Shan is an affiliate of our dynasty!" Sacred King Taichu stated sternly.


    "Taichu? Let''s see if you can truly protect Zhong Shan," the Purple Sky Sect Leader retorted coldly.


    As he spoke, a vast purple aura spread from the Purple Sky Sect Leader, filling the heavens and earth with a noble and domineering presence.


    Wherever the purple aura spread, trees and flowers bent, seemingly bowing to the master of the purple aura.

 Chapter 864: Su Daji鈥檚 Reprimand

    <h4>Chapter 864: Su Daji��s Reprimand</h4>


    As the Purple Sky Sect Leader swept his sleeve, an overwhelming aura erupted, so powerful that even the grass and trees bowed. Thismanding presence felt as if it ruled over everything, exerting a pressure that demanded submission.


    Faced with this formidable aura, Zhong Shan remained fearless. He believed that Su Daji would not let the Purple Sky Sect Leader continue his rampage.


    How strong was Su Daji? An ancient immortal? Perhaps. But once, as the Empress of the Great Shang, she dared to face the saints directly. Although her strength was far below that of the saints, for a considerable time, the saints could do nothing to her. Her methods were astonishingly powerful.


    Indeed, just as the Purple Sky Sect Leader was disying his arrogance:


    "Boom!"


    In the sky, the endless blood clouds suddenly began to swirl, and a powerful aura descended, pressing directly on the Purple Sky Sect Leader.


    The terrifying aura was so overwhelming that even standing on the Heaven and Earth altar, Zhong Shan felt a sense of wanting to flee.


    The blood clouds roared, not just above the people''s heads, but as if the entire ancient immortal''s secret realm, the entire internal world, was suddenly in turmoil. The wind and clouds changed color, and the blood clouds howled.


    The immense heavenly pressure bore down directly on the Purple Sky Sect Leader.


    The Purple Sky Sect Leader''s expression changed, as most of the pressure was directed at him, like the wrath of heaven itself being provoked.


    The distant spectators frowned, not understanding what was happening but feeling the turbulent atmosphere.


    "A secret realm array? What a powerful array?" The Purple Sky Sect Leader''s aura paused as he looked up.


    As his aura paused, the heavenly wrath seemed to stop as well.


    In an instant, the Purple Sky Sect Leader''s gaze turned back to the mountain, specifically to the gate with the nine-tailed fox relief.


    Not only the Purple Sky Sect Leader, but also Sacred King Taichu and Chess Sage Chimei looked at the gate, each with a solemn expression. Everyone sensed that while the heavenly wrath had dissipated, another aura was emanating from the gate.


    "Boom!"


    The mountain gate suddenly opened.


    "Creak! Creak!" The sounds of ancient joints moving.


    People widened their eyes, staring into the dark entrance, sensing someone was about to emerge.


    "Creak!"


    Suddenly, a massive skeletal foot stepped out of the gate.


    "Thud!"


    The skeletal footnded on the ground of the za.


    Next, the skeleton''s body, a thousand feet tall, passed through the gate, growingrger as it stepped onto the za, moving slowly.


    Everyone gulped at the sight.


    A fox skeleton, dragging ninerge skeletal tails.


    A nine-tailed fox, the skeleton of the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox.


    The shock of the massive skeleton overshadowed the presence of Princess Nine-Tails at its feet.


    Though it was only a skeleton, everyone inexplicably felt a seductive aura and a noble, soul-captivating presence emanating from it.


    "Chimei pays respects to the senior!" Chess Sage Chimei immediately bowed respectfully.


    "Greetings, senior!" Sacred King Taichu said solemnly.


    "Greetings, senior!" All the surrounding experts paid their respects.


    Only the Purple Sky Sect Leader''s expression kept changing upon seeing the skeleton. Notpletely dead? Still lingering?


    At this moment, Su Daji''s skeleton raised its head and looked directly at the Purple Sky Sect Leader.


    "Those not from Qingqiu, leave!" Su Daji said calmly.


    Her tone was very firm, as if there was no room for rebuttal, like an order from a superior to an inferior.


    The Purple Sky Sect Leader, a grand leader of a sect, was being addressed so rudely by Su Daji.


    The Purple Sky Sect Leader stared at Su Daji''s skeleton, taking a deep breath.


    "My apologies for disturbing you, senior," the Purple Sky Sect Leader said seriously.


    Then, the Purple Sky Sect Leader moved, quickly leaving the ancient immortal''s secret realm with his subordinate.


    Everyone who didn''t know Su Daji''s identity was shocked. Wasn''t this an exaggeration? He was a sect leader! And he left immediately after being scolded so rudely?


    Zhong Shan wasn''t surprised by Su Daji''s reprimand. Regardless of her strength, her identity as the former empress of the Great Shangmanded respect. Even though the Great Shang had fallen, some of its powerful figures, like Kong Xuan, were still alive. If Su Daji called upon the remnants of the Great Shang to attack the Purple Sky Dojo, it wouldn''tst long.


    Even Kong Xuan alone would be enough to trouble the Purple Sky Dojo, not to mention the other powerful descendants of the Great Shang who had survived over the years.


    Understanding Su Daji''s identity, the Purple Sky Sect Leader had no reason not to leave. The fall of the Great Shang still held its residual power.


    Su Daji then looked at the remaining people, finally locking her gaze on Sima Qing.


    "Members of the Sima family? You should leave as well!" Su Daji said calmly.


    "Senior, we are also from Qingqiu," Sima Qing said respectfully, his face changing.


    "Sima family? Hmph, Lady Nuwa allows you to stay in Qingqiu, treating you as Qingqiu people, but I don''t like you. Leave!" Su Daji said.


    Sima Qing''s face changed several times before he finally nodded. "Yes, senior."


    He then quickly led Sima Qianjun and Sima Zongheng away.


    "Are you the ruler of Qingqiu?" Su Daji asked Sacred King Taichu.


    "Yes, I am the Sacred King of the Taichu Sacred Court, ruling over Qingqiu," Sacred King Taichu said respectfully.


    The skeleton of the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox seemed to scrutinize Sacred King Taichu before finally showing satisfaction. "Barely capable of ruling Qingqiu!"


    "Thank you for thepliment, senior," Sacred King Taichu said with some trepidation.


    "I am already dead. This remaining wisp of thought is just to leave somest instructions for you and the fox n of the world," Su Daji said calmly.


    "Please speak, senior," Sacred King Taichu said immediately.


    It was clear that Sacred King Taichu recognized this as only a remnant thought of Su Daji. Otherwise, if Su Daji''s spirit were still intact, she could easily gather the energy of heaven and earth to forge a new body.


    "Back then, the seven great sages, led by Hongjun, conspired to manipte the destiny of the heavens, setting up a grand n to obscure the celestial mechanisms, using the Great Shang as a sacrifice and the Great Zhou as a foundation to plot against the celestial order. But ultimately, they could not escape the punishment of the heavens. All seven sages perished, their fortunes exhausted. They brought about their own doom," Su Daji said calmly.


    Everyone held their breath, their eyes filled with astonishment. These were the secrets of the ancient times, unheard of until now.


    "Lady Nuwa once told me that she left a great gift for the fox n, to be retrieved after fifty thousand years. Now, more than fifty thousand years have passed, and it''s time to collect the gift," Su Daji recalled.


    "A great gift from Lady Nuwa to the fox n?" Sacred King Taichu said in surprise.


    Not only Sacred King Taichu, but almost everyone was shocked by Su Daji''s words. A gift from Lady Nuwa? A saint''s gift��what could it possibly be?


    A gift for the fox n? Chess Sage Chimei felt a surge of excitement.


    "Upon returning to Qingqiu, gather the wise fox n members to retrieve it."


    "Yes! But where is this gift?" Sacred King Taichu asked promptly.


    "Lady Nuwa mentioned it is in ''Ai Sea''," Su Daji said.


    "Ai Sea? The southeastern sea of the Fengzhong Territory, near the Purple Sky Dojo?" Chess Sage Chimei frowned.


    "Ai Sea? The ce where the Supreme Sage fell?" Sacred King Taichu furrowed his brow.


    "Yes," Su Daji nodded.


    "But, senior, before the Supreme Sage fell, he suddenly went to Ai Sea and perished there, which had already attracted the attention of the world. Tens of thousands of years ago, countless strong beings arrived at Ai Sea, searching its four corners for what might have attracted the Supreme Sage. But they found nothing. Even the newly ascended sages have visited Ai Sea, finding no secrets. How could it still hold something?" Sacred King Taichu asked with a frown.


    "If Lady Nuwa said it is there, it is there. She mentioned that this gift concerns the rise and fall of the fox n and must not be neglected," Su Daji said with certainty.


    "Yes, upon returning to Qingqiu, I will arrange for many fox n members to go there, and I will personally visit Ai Sea!" Sacred King Taichu nodded.


    "I have delivered Lady Nuwa''s message. Take care," Su Daji said.


    "Yes!" everyone responded respectfully.


    At this moment, Su Daji suddenly looked at Princess Nine-Tails.


    "Princess Nine-Tails?" Su Daji called out softly.


    "I am here, senior. Speak," Princess Nine-Tails responded immediately.


    "I am dead, with only a wisp of thought remaining. After leaving the Forbidden Hall just now, this wisp of thought will also disperse into the world, bing part of the world''s energy. But I have onest wish, and I hope you can fulfill it," Su Daji said with a hint of expectation.


    "Senior, as long as it is within my power, I will do it!" Princess Nine-Tails immediately responded.


    "I have already told you everything inside the Forbidden Hall. In the Battle of Fengshen, the Great Shang became a sacrifice for the saints who manipted the celestial order. Both King Zhou and I were dismembered. I wish for you, one day, to bury me and King Zhou together, fulfilling myst wish," Su Daji said with a touch of sorrow.


    Thinking about everything Su Daji had revealed inside the Forbidden Hall, Princess Nine-Tails felt a pang of sadness.


    Looking at Su Daji''s enormous skeleton, she solemnly nodded, "Rest assured, if I have the ability, I will ensure you and King Zhou Di Xin are buried together. Let all the gods and Buddhas see for themselves!"


    "Thank you," Su Daji said gratefully.


    Then, the mountain behind her suddenly transformed into a massive red coffin.


    Su Daji slowly stepped into the coffin, lying down and extinguishing herst wisp of thought.


    Princess Nine-Tails closed the coffin lid, her face full of sorrow, and with a wave of her hand, she stored the red coffin in her storage space.


    The moment it entered the storage space, it signified that Su Daji waspletely dead, even herst wisp of thought turning to dust.


    "Boom!"


    The blood-red sky suddenly roared continuously, causing the entire ancient immortal''s secret realm to shake.


    "This is bad. The senior''s extinction is causing the ancient immortal''s secret realm to copse!" Chess Sage Chimei eximed.

 Chapter 865: The Vast Aolai Sea

    <h4>Chapter 865: The Vast Ai Sea</h4>


    In Qingqiu, at Princess Nine-Tails'' residence.


    Princess Nine-Tails'' residence was situated on a huge floating ind in Qingqiu. As soon as she returned, she immediately went into seclusion. Zhong Shan waited patiently.


    One day, Zhong Shan sat in a pavilion in Princess Nine-Tails'' residence, sipping tea and listening to music, when a servant approached.


    "Master Zhong, Young Master Su is here again!" the servant said.


    "Let him in," Zhong Shan nodded.


    With a wave of his hand, the dancing fox spirits dispersed.


    "Zhong Shan, has Princess Nine-Tailse out of seclusion yet? It''s been six months," Su Afo eximed as he rushed into the courtyard.


    "She''s still in seclusion. Why are you in such a hurry?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "It''s not just me who''s in a hurry. All the countless powerful beings in the four directions are anxious. The three great sacred courts��Taichu, Taiyi, and Taiji��and the three major dojos��Purple Sky, Lady Snake, and Burning Lamp��all of Fengzhong Territory, and even the surrounding sea areas, are in a frenzy," Su Afo said.


    "Oh?"


    "That day in the ancient immortal''s secret realm, the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox revealed the saint''s treasure in Ai Sea in front of so many people. This caused an uproar. With so many people hearing it, the news spread quickly. Now, all the powerful beings are rushing towards Ai Sea!" Su Afo said with a strange expression.


    "What was she thinking? Heh, the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox, as you may have found out by now, is no simple beauty. Anyone who could maneuver among the seven great sages would not say anything without a purpose. I think she intended for the news to spread across the world," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Why?" Su Afo asked, puzzled.


    "Because Lady Nuwa''s relics are not easy to find. Ai Sea, where the Supreme Sage fell, has already attracted countless powerful beings. Even sages have visited Ai Sea but found nothing. Do you think Lady Nuwa''s treasure is easy to find? Can it be found with just a few fox n members?" Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "Then why not tell only the fox n and search slowly? If it''s the saint''s treasure, what if others take it? The fox n is not the sole power in Fengzhong Territory," Su Afo frowned.


    "Su Daji? Since she chose to let the whole world know, it means Lady Nuwa''s treasure can only end up in the hands of the fox n. Even if countless strong beings rush there, they will only end up serving the fox n''s interests. Don''t worry too much," Zhong Shan assured.


    "You''re really not worried!" Su Afo said, somewhat annoyed.


    "Heh, I already know the oue. Worrying is useless," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "But when will Princess Nine-Tailse out of seclusion? It''s taking too long," Su Afo said anxiously.


    "Why are you so eager for her toe out?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "If she doesn''te out, you won''t leave. If shees out, you''ll head to Ai Sea!" Su Afo said.


    "Why are you so eager for us to go to Ai Sea?"


    "I want to go as soon as possible."


    "Then go!"


    "No, I must endure it this time and go with you all!"


    "Why?" Zhong Shan asked, even more puzzled.


    Su Afo''s eyes gleamed, "I''ve found that wherever you go, there''s always a big event. Following you all will definitely be more exciting than going alone!"


    Zhong Shan: "...!"


    "Su Afo, what are you doing at my residence?" A voice suddenly rang out in the pavilion. Su Afo shivered initially but then looked delighted.


    "Princess, you''ve finallye out of seclusion! Zhong Shan and I have been waiting for you forever!" Su Afo eximed immediately.


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    The figure of Princess Nine-Tails appeared at the entrance of the pavilion, her eyes narrowing. "Waiting for me? For what?"


    "To go to Ai Sea, of course! We''ve been waiting for you!" Su Afo said eagerly.


    Princess Nine-Tails nced at Su Afo and then, with a sly look, said, "We will go to Ai Sea, but did I ever say I''d take you along?"


    "What? Princess, you can''t do this. I''ve been waiting for you for six months. How can you leave me behind? It''s so unfair!" Su Afo whined, tears streaming down his face.


    Zhong Shan watched Su Afo''s dramatic performance, thinking it required a remarkable level of acting skill.


    "Hmmm, I just broke through to the Great Celestial Realm, and I''m a bit short on celestial artifacts. Last time, I saw you won seven in a bet. How about...?" Princess Nine-Tails said with a mischievous smile.


    "Six. I already gave one to you, Princess," Su Afo said, wincing with pain.


    "But I lost that one. You see..." Princess Nine-Tails continued.


    "Alright, I''ll give you another one," Su Afo said, his face twitching with pain.


    "One won''t be enough. What if I lose it again? Let''s make it four," Princess Nine-Tails said, opening wide.


    "You might as well kill me! Four? No way. I can only give you two, not a single one more!" Su Afo shouted.


    Seeing Su Afo''s determined expression, Princess Nine-Tails smiled and said, "I was just joking with you. Fine, two it is."


    Joking? Su Afo felt a pang of misery. This woman was truly a demoness. He had been tricked out of another artifact.


    "How about three? What do you think?" Princess Nine-Tails suddenly asked.


    Su Afo''s face stiffened, and he immediately jumped up. "Only two, that''s it."


    "Alright, alright, so stingy!"


    Su Afo wiped the cold sweat from his forehead. Stingy? She had just reached the Great Celestial Realm and already taken three celestial artifacts from him. Many rogue cultivators in the Great Celestial Realm didn''t have a single decent artifact.


    Zhong Shan, Princess Nine-Tails, and Su Afo began their journey to Ai Sea.


    Fengzhong Territory was a vast region, resembling the Divine Land of the Small Thousand World, surrounded by sea on all sides. However, Fengzhong Territory was muchrger than the Divine Land.


    Ai Sea was located in the southeastern corner of Fengzhong Territory.


    The Taichu Sacred Court was in the northeastern part of Fengzhong Territory, with Great Yi even further to the northeast. To the east was the Purple Sky Dojo, and to the south was the Taiyi Sacred Court.


    This meant that Ai Sea was in the outer sea region between the Purple Sky Dojo and the Taiyi Sacred Court.


    On the way, Princess Nine-Tails proudly said, "Zhong Shan, I have some great news for you!"


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "You broke the Heavenly Cmity Chessboard, brought the senior''sst words to the fox n, and protected me. The Sacred King has decided to award you the title of baron. After my strong rmendation, your baron title has been elevated to viscount. It''s a significant achievement, and you''re one step closer to the title of marquis. Once you umte enough merits for the marquis title, you can return to Great Yi!" Princess Nine-Tails said proudly.


    "Viscount?" Su Afo''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "What''s the matter?" Princess Nine-Tails asked, confused.


    "Princess, what is your rtionship with the Sacred King? Why does he favor you so much? The merits required for each noble rank are staggering, yet you managed to persuade the Sacred King? You''re incredible!" Su Afo eximed in surprise.


    "Of course, do you know who I am?" Princess Nine-Tails said, enjoying the praise.


    "Um, could you put in a good word for me too? Maybe help me get my rank raised?" Su Afo asked with a fawning smile.


    "Hmm, it''s not impossible. It depends on your sincerity!" Princess Nine-Tails pretended to think deeply.


    "Sincerity? What kind of sincerity?" Su Afo was puzzled.


    "For example, celestial artifacts, heavenly treasures, things like that! I might consider it," Princess Nine-Tails said.


    Su Afo looked at Princess Nine-Tails with a mix of frustration and resignation. This little demoness was terrifying. She had already taken three celestial artifacts from him and now wanted more. And she was only ''considering'' it. If he gave her more celestial artifacts, it would be like throwing a meat bun to a dog��gone forever.


    "Uh, let''s pretend I didn''t say anything. I never said that!" Su Afo waved his hands quickly.


    "Stingy!"


    "Zhong Shan, how about it? Aren''t I impressive? Being my follower isn''t bad, right?" Princess Nine-Tails turned to Zhong Shan.


    "Hmm!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    Exchanging merit for freedom? Zhong Shan had never considered it. He had his own ns. Leaving Taichu by earning merit was too slow. However, it was an excellent cover for his own ns.


    "Then call me ''Master'' and let me hear it," Princess Nine-Tails smiled.


    Zhong Shan forced a smile but didn''t utter the words.


    Seeing this, Princess Nine-Tails felt frustrated again.


    Three monthster, the three of them arrived at the vast sea known as Ai Sea.


    This was an incredibly expansive area, vast and boundless, with azure seas and skies, countless inds, and misty expanses. The vastness of Ai Sea made it seem like an impossible task to search for anything. Even though more and more people and strong beings had gathered over the past six months, Ai Sea still felt empty, with only a few groups of people flying by in the distance.


    No one had found anything despite searching for months.


    "How are we supposed to find anything in this vast sea? The senior didn''t give any clear directions!" Princess Nine-Tailsined.


    "Yeah, this is hopeless. It''s like finding a needle in a haystack. How can we possibly find it?" Su Afo echoed herints.


    When they first set out, everyone was full of enthusiasm, but seeing the vast expanse of the sea had extinguished all their confidence and passion. It felt hopeless.


    "Let''s find a local cultivator to guide us around Ai Sea. We need to get a clear understanding of the entire area first," Zhong Shan suggested.


    "That''s a good idea. Zhong Shan speaks wisely. You need patience to find things, unlike you,ining at the first sign of difficulty. No wonder you''re not as sessful as Zhong Shan!" Princess Nine-Tails chided Su Afo.


    Su Afo was speechless. Wasn''t she the one who startedining first?


    Finding a local cultivator, Zhong Shan and his group obtained a map of the nearby sea. The local was straightforward, giving them a jade slip map detailing the general area of Ai Sea before leaving.


    "This lousy map costs three hundred celestial stones? These people are so greedy!" Su Afo grumbled, holding the jade slip map.


    Celestial stones, simr to spirit stones in the Small Thousand World, were used as currency to purchase items.


    Su Afo felt particrly distressed because Zhong Shan didn''t have any celestial stones, and Princess Nine-Tails wouldn''t pay. So, the three hundred celestial stones came out of Su Afo''s pocket.

 Chapter 866: The Reappearance of the Lady

    <h4>Chapter 866: The Reappearance of the Lady</h4>


    Ai Sea was incredibly vast, with more than a hundred thousand inds of various sizes, making it impossible to study them all thoroughly in a short time. Zhong Shan and hispanions took about a month to roughly fly around Ai Sea.


    Even with their formidable strength, it took the three of them��each at least at the celestial level��a month to circle the sea, demonstrating its immense scale.


    During this period, they encountered countless strong beings, many of whom were also scouring the perimeter of Ai Sea, seeking the saint''s relics. Many demonic beasts also came in groups for the same purpose.


    However, the trio wasn''t without gains. They at least made contact with some people from the Taichu Sacred Court.


    On one of the inds, which had seven or eight pces, clearly set up as a temporary base, Zhong Shan sat in one of the pces, reviewing arge amount of information.


    Princess Nine-Tails, feeling bored, yed Go with Su Afo, but both of them were terrible at it, making their game quite chaotic.


    "Zhong Shan, have you figured out a way yet?" Princess Nine-Tails asked while holding a chess piece.


    "Still looking. Is this information urate?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "These were collected by Brother Hongxiao. They should be correct. This includes the geography of Ai Sea, its history over the past tens of thousands of years, the changes in sects on the inds, and the shifts in power. It should all be urate," Su Afo assured.


    Zhong Shan nodded, tossing aside thest scroll he was holding.


    "Do you know why the Supreme Sage came here?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "No one knows that. But it''s said the Supreme Sage was thest to fall," Princess Nine-Tails replied.


    "Oh?"


    "ording to legend, the seven great sages fell one after another, and the Supreme Sage was thest. Before he died, he suddenly came to Ai Sea and died the same day!" Princess Nine-Tails exined.


    "The same day? What day was it when the Supreme Sage died?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "I know this one��June 7th at noon," Princess Nine-Tails immediately answered.


    "The time of great misfortune?" Zhong Shan''s brows furrowed.


    "Right, June 7th at noon is the most ominous time of the year. It has always been so. Have you discovered something?" Princess Nine-Tails asked, puzzled.


    "Not yet, but it''s worth considering. June 7th at noon is five months away. Perhaps in five months, we might find some opportunity," Zhong Shan thought aloud.


    "Exactly. The Supreme Sage wouldn''te here to die for no reason. It''s too coincidental. Perhaps he knew about Lady Nuwa''s relic. June 7th at noon must be a very significant day!" Princess Nine-Tails quickly said.


    "But surely others have looked into this date and found nothing," Su Afo said, puzzled.


    "Not many people would think of June 7th at noon. Maybe those who did were too foolish to find anything. We''ll discover it ourselves! Besides, even if they find it, it won''t matter," Princess Nine-Tails said confidently.


    "Hmm?" Zhong Shan was surprised.


    Realizing she might have slipped up, Princess Nine-Tails quickly said, "Zhong Shan, keep looking and researching!"


    But Zhong Shan wasn''t so easily fooled. "Even if they find it, it won''t matter?" Could Su Daji have given Princess Nine-Tails some crucial piece of information?


    However, since Princess Nine-Tails was unwilling to say more, Zhong Shan had no way to force her.


    Just as Zhong Shan was about to continue studying the information, a figure walked into the hall.


    "Brother Hongxiao, have you found anything?" Su Afo immediately asked.


    It was the same general who had once sent Su Afo to the Eighteenth Layer of Hell.


    "No, I''ve dispatched all my subordinates. As soon as there''s news, they''ll report back immediately. So far, there''s no word of Lady Nuwa''s relic. However, there''s arge-scale battle happening in the nearby sea," Hongxiao said, shaking his head.


    "A battle? That''s inevitable. With so many strong beings from Fengzhong Territory gathered here, there are bound to be grudges and fights," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Yes, but this time it''s different. The new saintess of the Purple Sky Dojo is being besieged," Hongxiao said with a smile.


    "Oh?" Su Afo became interested.


    "This saintess is newly appointed to the Purple Sky Dojo. She''s at the celestial level and wields a Heavenly Thunder Pearl with great skill. The sea sharks of the celestial realm can''t get close to her. Unfortunately, this time the sea sharks are too numerous. A million strong, and she won''t be able to hold out much longer," Hongxiao exined.


    "People from the Purple Sky Dojo? If she dies, she dies. It''s even better if a saintess dies," Su Afoughed.


    "What did you just say? A million sea sharks besieging the saintess? Why are they attacking her?" Zhong Shan''s eyebrows furrowed.


    "It seems the young prince of the sea shark n wants to take the saintess as his concubine, but she refused. So, they started fighting," Hongxiao said.


    "Zhong Shan, are you interested?" Su Afo asked with a puzzled smile.


    Zhong Shan didn''t respond to Su Afo. His frown deepened, and he asked, "Do you know what the saintess looks like? Her name? Or her background?"


    Princess Nine-Tails and Su Afo both looked at Zhong Shan in confusion. What was going on?


    "I don''t know her name or her appearance. She''s surrounded by a million sea sharks. However, I heard she joined the Purple Sky Dojo a hundred or two hundred years ago, and she seems toe from your Small Thousand World," Hongxiao said after thinking for a moment.


    "Where are they?" Zhong Shan''s expression changed.


    "To the west, fifty thousand miles away," Hongxiao replied, puzzled.


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhong Shan''s figure disappeared from the hall.


    In the hall, Su Afo, Princess Nine-Tails, and Hongxiao were all slightly taken aback.


    "Brother Hongxiao, gather your troops and follow quickly!" Su Afo said immediately.


    Princess Nine-Tails and Su Afo quickly chased after Zhong Shan.


    Neither of them knew what was going on with Zhong Shan, but they knew something significant was happening.


    As Su Afo chased, his eyes lit up with excitement. Finally, something was happening. What was Zhong Shan up to? Did he want to seize a saintess as a concubine?


    Heavenly Thunder Pearl, saintess of the Purple Sky Dojo, Small Thousand World. A hundred or two hundred years ago?


    In an instant, a memorable figure shed through Zhong Shan''s mind.


    "Just give them up, and I''ll be your woman for life, never regretting it!"


    "Are you really so heartless?"


    "Am I not beautiful enough?"


    "Did Ie to the wrong ce?"


    The stubborn woman from the past, her sorrowful gaze, was still vivid in Zhong Shan''s memory. He could never forget her. Was it her? Was it really her?


    Besieged by a million sea sharks?


    Zhong Shan charged straight towards the sea where the battle was taking ce.


    Before long, Zhong Shan traversed the fifty thousand miles of sea and arrived near the battlefield.


    Surrounding the area were numerous inds, each crowded with cultivators who were watching coldly from the sidelines, unwilling to intervene.


    At the center, arge purple barrier covered an ind. Numerous strong cultivators flew around, wieldingrge des and attacking the purple barrier. Some managed to break through, engaging inbat within. The sea was littered with corpses, mostly of sharks, with many live sharks showing no mercy to their dead kin. The scent of blood made them even more frenzied.


    The number of attackers was so vast that it was impossible to see the situation inside the purple barrier clearly.


    "The sea shark n is handling matters here, stay away!" Seven strong cultivators flew towards Zhong Shan, quickly blocking his path.


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan let out a cold snort, drawing out his great de, Longevity.


    "Are you looking for death?" The leading sea shark cultivator red at him.


    "Shhhkkkkk!"


    Blood sttered the sky as Zhong Shan swiftly killed the seven sea shark cultivators with a single strike.


    This sudden change drew the attention of the cultivators on the surrounding inds, all of whom looked at Zhong Shan in the sky with surprise.


    "Who is that? Does he have a death wish?"


    "Maybe he''s from the Purple Sky Dojo!"


    "No, I recognize him, he''s the Sacred King of Great Yi!"


    As discussions broke out, a hundred sea shark cultivators noticed themotion and quickly surrounded Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan red coldly at the dense, endless sea shark cultivators. Many sharks in the sea hadn''t taken human form, not because they couldn''t, but because they chose not to.


    With a fierce look in his eyes, Zhong Shan swung his great de towards the sea below.


    <strong>Heaven''s Law, Myriad Waves!</strong>


    The terrifying cold air from his de swept across, instantly freezing the hundred approaching sea shark cultivators into ice sculptures.


    "Boom!"


    The de struck the sea, creating a massive chasm. Enormous waves surged up but were immediately frozen into solid ice, transforming a thousand-mile radius of sea into a frozen wastnd.


    Zhong Shan''s strikended in the densest part of the sea shark horde, killing nearly ten thousand sea sharks in one blow.


    The sky was stained with blood, and the scene of frozen carnage spread before everyone''s eyes, leaving the spectators in shock.


    The sea shark cultivators finally recognized Zhong Shan as a formidable adversary. Numerous sea shark cultivators rushed towards him, breaking through the ice from below, surrounding him from all sides. They formed a dense sphere, tens of thousands of strong cultivators charging at Zhong Shan.


    "Roar!"


    A thunderous roar erupted from within the sphere.


    "Boom!"


    The sphere of tens of thousands of strong cultivators exploded outwards, with countless cultivators dying instantly. Only those with higher cultivation levels survived, but they too were severely injured and thrown back.


    As Su Afo and Princess Nine-Tails arrived, they witnessed the grand scene of tens of thousands of cultivators being sted away. Both were slightly taken aback.


    Su Afo''s eyes gleamed with excitement. "What a powerhouse! Taking on tens of thousands at once, this is thrilling!"

 Chapter 867: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Fierce Might

    <h4>Chapter 867: Zhong Shan''s Fierce Might</h4>


    As Su Afo and Princess Nine-Tails arrived, they witnessed the spectacr scene of tens of thousands of strong cultivators being sted away. Both were momentarily stunned.


    Su Afo''s eyes gleamed with excitement. "What a powerhouse! Taking on tens of thousands at once, this is thrilling!"


    Indeed, the sea shark n might not have had the strongest individuals, but the sight of tens of thousands being sted away at once was an eye-catching spectacle that made one''s blood boil.


    Zhong Shan flew towards the central ind, effortlessly annihting any who dared to approach him. Every wave of his hand resulted in the obliteration of his foes.


    "Attack! Kill him!" A loudmand echoed from near the ind''s barrier.


    At thismand, the countless sea sharks seemed to receive their orders,unching themselves at Zhong Shan with suicidal determination.


    With a fierce re, Zhong Shan wielded his great de at a terrifying speed. Against these small fry, even the lesser waves of his attack, the Tenfold Waves or Hundredfold Waves, were sufficient.


    This allowed Zhong Shan to move even faster, filling the sky with terrifying de light. Every sea shark that soared into the sky was cut in half, and those charging at Zhong Shan were met with a shower of blood.


    The sky became Zhong Shan''s personal stage.


    Ferocity! This was true ferocity, the kind that intimidated countless strong cultivators with just a visual impact.


    "Should we help?" Su Afo asked, somewhat dazed.


    Zhong Shan''s onught was relentless, with waves of sea shark blood staining the frozen sea beneath them.


    "Of course, let''s go!" Princess Nine-Tails said excitedly.


    She charged forward. Being at the Great Celestial Realm, she easily overwhelmed the sea sharks, whose strongest members were only at the Celestial Realm. With a ribbon in her hand, she moved swiftly, causing any sea shark that touched it to explode.


    Su Afo wielded a golden cudgel, a powerful celestial artifact, turning any sea shark it struck into dust.


    While Zhong Shan headed straight for the ind, Princess Nine-Tails and Su Afo joined the fray for the thrill of the fight.


    In no time, Zhong Shan had ughtered nearly twenty thousand sea sharks and reached the ind. The sea shark cultivators who had been attacking the ind now looked horrified. The sea shark cultivators who had previously breached the purple barrier quickly retreated, surrounding a young man in white.


    Through the purple barrier, Zhong Shan saw her.


    His heart trembled.


    It was Zi Xun. She was surrounded by seven or eight protectors, all from the Purple Sky Dojo.


    With a wave of her right hand, the Heavenly Thunder Pearl she had been using to defend herself disappeared into her palm.


    The Heavenly Thunder Pearl��how could Zhong Shan forget? The first time he met Zi Xun, she had used it to st the Red Luan Old Demon, with Zhong Shan holding her in his arms.


    It was still the same Heavenly Thunder Pearl.


    As the enemies retreated, Zi Xun turned and saw Zhong Shan''s gaze. Her expression changed, showing a sh of eagerness and joy, quickly reced by sorrow. Though brief, that moment of sadness deeply pierced Zhong Shan''s heart.


    "Kill him! Elder Sixteen, kill that man for me! I want him dead!" The young man in white, surrounded by many sea sharks, pointed at Zhong Shan with a vicious expression.


    The strong cultivators on the surrounding inds were stunned by the sudden turn of events.


    Everyone watched in awe at Zhong Shan''s ferocity, their blood boiling at the sight. As the attackers of the Purple Sky Dojo''s saintess retreated, all eyes turned to the sea shark leaders.


    "The young prince of the sea shark n has had his ns foiled. It seems he''s really angry now." "The Sixteenth Elder of the sea shark n? I heard he reached the Great Celestial Realm a century ago, his power is immense!" "A Great Celestial? The Sacred King of Great Yi might be in trouble now!" "Why? He looks incredibly fierce!" "Fierce? What good is fierceness? That''s a Great Celestial, and I''ve heard the Sacred King of Great Yi has poor innate talent. After opening the heavens, his strength only reached the second level of the Celestial Realm. That wasn''t long ago. How can a second-level Celestial match a Great Celestial? Even the weakest Great Celestial!" "No, I heard that during the opening of the heavens, Zhong Shan fought a Great Celestial and was undefeated!" "That wasn''t Zhong Shan; it was his nation''s supreme beast, the wolf emperor Xuan Sha. He''s a genius among geniuses!" "Sixteenth Elder? No wonder the young prince of the sea shark n is so confident!"


    The onlookers engaged in heated discussions as the battle continued.


    Upon receiving the young prince''smand, the Sixteenth Elder of the sea shark n charged directly at Zhong Shan. As he approached, the sky turned blue, and he unleashed his ''world,'' a blue domain that enveloped Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s face hardened, and a murderous glint shed in his eyes. If he were anyter, Zi Xun would have been killed by this elder!


    A sh of fierce light passed through Zhong Shan''s eyes, and the Sixteenth Elder felt a chill, as if a deathly re pierced his soul.


    Truly enraged, Zhong Shan thrust out his right palm, causing a massive million-foot-wide handprint to appear in the void. This terrifying handprint glowed with silver light, emitting boundless clouds and disying countless terrifying runes.


    At that moment, everyone stopped what they were doing, staring in shock and awe at this disy. What kind of technique was this?


    Su Afo clutched his golden cudgel, staring at the sky-covering handprint in disbelief. Was this even possible?


    The massive handprint descended upon the Sixteenth Elder''s ''world.''


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous explosion echoed as Zhong Shan''s enormous handprint gripped the elder''s ''world.''


    A handprint gripping a ''world''? Could this be real?


    Everyone was stunned. The ''world'' was supposed to be an intangible concept, only able to be touched by another ''world.'' How could a physical handprint grab it? This defied all logic and understanding.


    "Boom!"


    The second explosion left everyone even more bewildered. The fingers of Zhong Shan''s gigantic handprint curled, forcefully grasping the Sixteenth Elder''s ''world.'' With a deafening roar, the elder''s ''world'' was torn apart.


    The fact that an intangible ''world'' could be shattered by a handprint overturned everyone''s understanding. They stood frozen in disbelief. How was this possible?


    The terrifying power of the Opening Heaven Palm, capable of creating and destroying worlds, was beyond theirprehension.


    While the onlookers were filled with shock, only the Sixteenth Elder understood the gravity of the situation. When his ''world'' was shattered, he felt an internal shock, his mind severely disrupted.


    "Rumble!"


    The scene yed out with a powerful sound, and the Sixteenth Elder found himself at the mercy of Zhong Shan''s overwhelming power.


    Zhong Shan''s colossal handprint, a manifestation of his Opening Heaven Palm, crushed the Sixteenth Elder''s world effortlessly. Shrinking rapidly, the handprint locked onto the Sixteenth Elder, despite his desperate attempts to defend himself, his face showing sheer terror.


    Too fast! In a blink, the handprint was only ten feet wide, encasing the elderpletely.


    "Boom!"


    A muffled explosion reverberated, and the giant handprint slowly dissipated.


    The explosion seemed to strike at everyone''s core. After this terrifying attack, fragments were scattered in the air��fragments of the Sixteenth Elder.


    At that moment, a profound silence enveloped the surroundings.


    Everyone seemed to be dumbstruck.


    Annihted with a single grasp? The Sacred King of Great Yi?


    That was a Great Celestial! Even the weakest Great Celestial was still a Great Celestial! Yet the Sacred King of Great Yi, at the Celestial Realm, had shattered a Great Celestial''s world and annihted him in one grasp?


    The onlookers shivered, feeling a deep sense of fear.


    The sea shark cultivators were equally stunned, refusing to believe that the overwhelmingly powerful Sixteenth Elder had been killed so easily.


    Even Su Afo and Princess Nine-Tails stood frozen in shock. Was this real?


    Just then, Hongxiao arrived with arge army, just in time to witness Zhong Shan annihting a powerful figure with one hand. Hongxiao recognized the fallen Great Celestial��Sixteenth Elder of the sea shark n, a prodigious talent. Zhong Shan had dispatched him so effortlessly?


    Hongxiao''s eyelid twitched. Even he would have had to expend significant effort to kill the Sixteenth Elder. But Zhong Shan��he was astonishing!


    "Run!"


    An unknown sea shark cultivator''s panicked scream pierced the air, and the sea shark n fled in all directions, especially the young prince, drenched in sweat, who was hurriedly escaping under the protection of his subordinates.


    "Hongxiao General, kill them!" Zhong Shanmanded sharply, charging towards the sea shark prince.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan''smanding aura surged forth again, almost overwhelming Hongxiao''s will, nearly making him respond with a resounding "yes."


    Snapping back to rity, Hongxiao felt a wave of astonishment. His face was extremely conflicted.


    "Brother Hongxiao, let''s kill them. It''s toote to turn back now!" Su Afo shouted.


    "Hongxiao, have your soldiers kill them all! Leave no one alive! I''ll make sure to report to the Sacred King that you did this to save me!" Princess Nine-Tails shouted.


    People looked speechlessly at Princess Nine-Tails, but she certainly had the confidence and the authority to make such a statement.


    "Target the sea shark n, kill them all!" Hongxiao ordered.


    "Yes!" The twenty thousand elite soldiers responded in unison.


    Hongxiao''s forces were highly trained, easily ughtering the remaining fleeing sea sharks.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan had already captured the sea shark prince, dragging him back to the ind.


    The purple barrier around the ind had been deactivated.


    "My father and the other elders are all at Ai Sea. Let me go now, or you''re dead!" the sea shark prince shouted.


    "Smack!" Zhong Shan kicked him, sending him sprawling in front of Zi Xun. The kick carried a hidden force, sealing off all the prince''s power.


    Zi Xun''s eyes flickered withplex emotions.


    "Thank you, senior!" said the seven or eight surviving members of the Purple Sky Dojo, expressing their gratitude to Zhong Shan.

 Chapter 868: The Return of the Human Sovereign

    <h4>Chapter 868: The Return of the Human Sovereign</h4>


    "Thank you, senior!" said the seven or eight surviving members of the Purple Sky Dojo, expressing their gratitude to Zhong Shan.


    "What do you want to do with this person?" Zhong Shan asked softly.


    "He used vulgarnguage to insult the saintess. He deserves to die!" a man in front of Zi Xun shouted.


    "Yes, he deserves to die! Kill him!" everyone echoed.


    Zi Xun remained silent, biting her lip, clearly not wanting to speak.


    Zhong Shan turned to the sea shark prince.


    The prince, seeing the ferocity in everyone''s eyes, finally felt fear. His previous arrogance had vanished, reced by sheer terror. He looked at everyone in panic, as if he were about to die the next moment.


    "Don''t kill me! Don''t kill me! My father will give you everything you want," the sea shark prince pleaded.


    "The sea shark n? Just a small n. Do we covet your belongings? Do you know who we are? We are from the Purple Sky Dojo, and they are from the Taichu Sacred Court. Do you think we care about a sea shark n?" the man from before shouted again.


    The Purple Sky Dojo had initially sent dozens of people, but now only seven were left. The survivors were enraged, not only for their fallenrades but also because they had been on the brink of death.


    "Taichu Sacred Court? You''re from the Taichu Sacred Court? You can''t kill me. This wasn''t my doing. It was Sima..." the sea shark prince stammered in fear.


    But as soon as he uttered the name "Sima..."


    "Thwip!"


    A streak of green light shot through the air, piercing the sea shark prince''s body in an instant. It was a green arrow.


    Everyone was momentarily stunned by the speed of the arrow, which reached them almost instantly.


    In that fleeting moment, Zhong Shan sensed the arrow. If it had been aimed at him, he could have blocked it. But aimed at someone else, it was too fast for Zhong Shan to intercept. The power Zhong Shan had shown so far wasn''t sufficient to save him.


    The arrow pierced through the sea shark prince, killing him instantly.


    Zhong Shan turned to look but saw no trace of the archer in the distance.


    Sima? Sima who? The Sima family? Was it someone from the Sima family trying to kill Zi Xun?


    Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    The previously arrogant group broke out in a cold sweat, looking around in fear, realizing they were still not out of danger.


    "Thank you," Zi Xun said to Zhong Shan, taking a deep breath.


    "Does it have to be this way?" Zhong Shan asked, a hint of bitterness in his voice.


    Zi Xun, sensing Zhong Shan''s bitterness, shed a gentle look in her eyes, which quickly turned to sadness. She shook her head, saying, "It was you who rejected me. What else could I do?"


    The others didn''t understand, but Zhong Shan did. Zi Xun had wanted to stay with Zhong Shan as his Daopanion, but Zhong Shan had refused. She wanted to be the only woman in his life, asking him to forsake all his other consorts, which Zhong Shan could not agree to.


    In the distance, Su Afo, Princess Nine-Tails, and Hongxiao paused their battle, watching Zhong Shan and Zi Xun converse from afar. All three were puzzled.


    "What is Zhong Shan doing?" Princess Nine-Tails frowned.


    "I don''t know. He''s set up a soundproof barrier, so we can''t hear their conversation," Hongxiao replied, shaking his head.


    Su Afo stroked his chin, a glint of wisdom in his eyes. "Based on my years of experience, Zhong Shan is trying to woo the saintess of the Purple Sky Dojo!"


    Inside the soundproof barrier, Zi Xun and Zhong Shan continued their conversation.


    "Zi Xun, I..."


    "Zhong Shan, I understand. You have your responsibilities and your people. I can''t ask you to give up everything for me," Zi Xun interrupted, her voice filled with a mixture of sorrow and resignation.


    Zhong Shan looked at her, his heart heavy. "Zi Xun, your safety is important to me. I will protect you, no matter what."


    Zi Xun''s eyes softened, but she quickly masked her emotions. "Thank you, Zhong Shan. But I must follow my own path. Let''s not dwell on the past."


    Zhong Shan nodded, knowing she was right. They had chosen different paths, and though their hearts still held affection, they couldn''t change their destinies.


    "Take care, Zi Xun," Zhong Shan said softly, stepping back to release the soundproof barrier.


    "You too, Zhong Shan," Zi Xun replied, watching him with a wistful expression.


    As the barrier dissolved, the sounds of the battlefield and the murmurs of the onlookers flooded back in, and the moment of their private conversation ended, leaving both with a sense of unresolved longing.


    "Stop spouting nonsense!" Princess Nine-Tails scolded Su Afo.


    Hongxiao, standing nearby, also shook his head in disbelief. Su Afo''s wild thoughts were hard to keep up with.


    "Yes, bing a saintess of the Purple Sky Dojo and reaching the Celestial Realm means she must have an extremely steadfast heart. How could she develop feelings from just one act of assistance?" Hongxiao added, shaking his head.


    "That''s why I say Zhong Shan is trying to woo her! Don''t you know? Wooing a saintess from a dojo is such a huge challenge. Only someone as charming as Zhong Shan could pull it off!" Su Afo''s eyes sparkled with excitement.


    Princess Nine-Tails and Hongxiao rolled their eyes.


    In the distance, Zhong Shan and Zi Xun continued their conversation within the soundproof barrier. Although the faces of the Purple Sky Dojo disciples were somewhat displeased, they didn''t say anything since Zhong Shan had saved them. They busied themselves with gathering the bodies of their fallenrades.


    "Why are you with the Purple Sky Dojo?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Where I am is none of your business," Zi Xun replied stubbornly, biting her lip.


    "But I worry about you," Zhong Shan said.


    There was a long silence between them, both their expressions filled withplexity.


    "Look at that, Zhong Shan and the saintess are starting to exchange longing looks. I was right. Only someone as suave as Zhong Shan could charm the Purple Sky saintess!" Su Afo said, his eyes gleaming.


    Zhong Shan looked at Zi Xun for a while and gently suggested, "Leave the Purple Sky Dojo."


    Zi Xun shook her head. "You don''t understand. The Purple Sky Dojo has something I need."


    "Leave, and I''ll help you get whatever you need. Anything," Zhong Shan promised earnestly.


    "Anything? Can you give it to me?"


    Back to square one. Zi Xun''s eyes reddened slightly, tears welling up. Without waiting for Zhong Shan''s reply, she turned and flew away.


    The disciples of the Purple Sky Dojo, seeing their saintess in tears, red at Zhong Shan before chasing after her.


    Zhong Shan watched Zi Xun leave, standing still as a sense of loss washed over him.


    In the distance, Princess Nine-Tails, Hongxiao, and Su Afo were confused by what they saw.


    "Why is the saintess crying?" Princess Nine-Tails wondered.


    "Probably got sand in her eyes," Hongxiao said wryly.


    Princess Nine-Tails: "..."


    "Just a few words and he made the saintess cry? For her, he broke his heart! Zhong Shan is such a charmer," Su Afo eximed, pping his thigh in excitement.


    Princess Nine-Tails, Hongxiao: "..."


    The sea shark n had mostly been wiped out, with only a few skirmishes remaining.


    As the three approached Zhong Shan, Su Afo spoke up, "Zhong Shan, let me be your disciple. You have to teach me how to woo a saintess! I''ve dreamed of charming a dojo saintess since I was a child, and my future depends on you."


    Zhong Shan, whose mood had been somber, was suddenly interrupted by Su Afo''s antics, and his sadness dissipated. He looked at Su Afo with a mixture of amusement and exasperation.


    "What are you talking about?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Just now, you made a saintess cry with a few words. Isn''t that it?"


    Zhong Shan chuckled, shaking his head. He had no intention of sharing the details of his and Zi Xun''s rtionship with anyone.


    A half-monthter, on an ind in Ai Sea.


    Zi Xun and seven disciples from the Purple Sky Dojonded. At that moment, a white-robed man approached from the front.


    The white-robed man, the same powerful figure who had apanied the Purple Sky Dojo''s leader to Su Daji''s tomb, approached with a hint of joy in his eyes. This was Daoist Lord Cheng Baiyi, an exceptional powerhouse of the Purple Sky Dojo.


    "Zi Xun? Have you found anything? Where are the others?" Cheng Baiyi asked, his eyes filled with an unusual attentiveness when looking at Zi Xun.


    Zi Xun nced at him coolly. "Daoist Lord Cheng, I''m not participating in the secrets of Ai Sea anymore. I came to retrieve something and will return to the Purple Sky Dojo immediately."


    "What happened?" Cheng Baiyi asked, puzzled.


    "Daoist Lord, everyone else is dead. We barely made it back ourselves!" one of the disciples said.


    "What?" Cheng Baiyi''s eyes widened.


    Zi Xun shook her head and walked towards a distant hall without further exnation.


    Cheng Baiyi watched Zi Xun''s retreating figure, a hopeful look in his eyes, but unsure of how to call her back. He turned to the remaining seven disciples.


    "Exin everything to me from the beginning," Cheng Baiyi demanded, his face darkening.


    "Daoist Lord, it was the sea shark n. Their young prince attempted to desecrate the saintess..." the disciple began.


    "What? He tried to desecrate Zi Xun?" Cheng Baiyi''s eyes gleamed with a cold light.


    "Yes, at that time..." the disciple continued to exin in detail.


    Halfway through, Zi Xun emerged from the hall.


    "I''ll take my leave," Zi Xun said coolly.


    "Zi Xun, you don''t need to go. With me here, no one will harm you," Cheng Baiyi said.


    Zi Xun shook her head, took a step, and flew away. Cheng Baiyi wanted to call her back but couldn''t find the words. His face grew even more somber.


    "Continue," Cheng Baiyi ordered.


    "Yes, and then we returned," the disciple concluded.


    "The person who saved you was Zhong Shan?" Cheng Baiyi asked, frowning.


    "Yes."


    "Does he know the saintess?"


    "We don''t know. They talked privately for a while. Afterward, the saintess shed a tear and then ignored Zhong Shan. We returned. Maybe they were discussing some elder from the Small Thousand World who passed away," the disciple spected.


    Cheng Baiyi''s brows furrowed, his expression uncertain. Then he asked, "The sea shark prince? Did he say that the sea shark king and several elders were at Ai Sea?"


    "Yes, Daoist Lord."


    "The sea shark n dared to provoke the Purple Sky Dojo. Send orders to all Purple Sky Dojo members in Ai Sea. Find this sea shark n. I want them exterminated!" Cheng Baiyi''s voice turned icy.


    "Yes!"


    Zhong Shan and his group returned to the previous ind. Over the next month, under Zhong Shan''s arrangements, Hongxiao''s patrolling troops brought back a wealth of information.


    On the table before Zhong Shany nearly a hundred memory crystals.


    "Sacred King Zhong, we have gathered records of all major conflicts in Ai Sea over the past four months. We''ve identified one peculiar individual who was present at nearly fifty of theserge-scale battles," Hongxiao reported with a frown.


    "Present? As in observing?" Su Afo asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, it''s not unusual for someone to appear at one or two or even ten major conflicts. But this person was present at nearly fifty out of a hundred battles, always on the periphery. He must be significant, but I couldn''t figure out why," Hongxiao exined, frowning.


    "Who is this person?" Princess Nine-Tails asked.


    Hongxiao used a spell to project an image of the man: a figure in a dark yellow robe, standing with his hands behind his back, a satisfied glint in his eyes as if pleased with the chaos.


    "Ren Zun?" Zhong Shan''s pupils constricted.


    This was Ren Zun? The Human Sovereign from the Small Thousand World''s geomancers, the head of the Human vein among the Five Veins of Heaven, Earth, Human, God, and Ghost! The one who wielded the Chaos Clock? He was here at Ai Sea too?

 Chapter 869: The Extermination of the Sea Shark Clan

    <h4>Chapter 869: The Extermination of the Sea Shark n</h4>


    "Ren Zun? Who is he?" Princess Nine-Tails asked, puzzled.


    Everyone turned to Zhong Shan.


    "A powerful geomancer, and the depths of his background are profound," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "The depths of his background? How deep could it be?" Princess Nine-Tails scoffed.


    "If Ren Zun is here, he must have a purpose. I hope it doesn''t conflict with ours," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "Is he really that terrifying?" Su Afo wondered. In his view, Zhong Shan feared nothing, yet mentioning "Ren Zun" seemed to make him hesitant.


    "I''m not afraid of him. I just don''t want to disturb the deep waters behind him right now. The time isn''t right," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    The three of them only partially understood.


    "Which one is Zhong Shan? Come out��!" Suddenly, a loud voice boomed from the sky above the ind.


    Everyone frowned and stepped out of the hall.


    In the sky above the ind, four men stood in a line, their faces full of anger. Many guards on the ind prepared for battle, their eyes fixed on the four men.


    As Zhong Shan stepped out, the four men''s eyes locked onto him.


    "Who are you?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Are you the one who killed the young prince and Sixteenth Elder?" the leading man in ck robes asked coldly.


    "Who are you?" Zhong Shan asked sternly.


    "They are the second, sixth, eighth, and ninth elders of the sea shark n," Hongxiao said.


    "If you are Zhong Shan, then it''s settled. You killed our young prince and Sixteenth Elder. By the king''smand, we are here to take your head!" the second elder dered.


    "Take my head? Such arrogance. Do you know who I am? Do you know what the consequences of your offense today will be?" Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with a fierce glint, intimidating the four elders.


    "Who do you think you are? The Sacred King of Great Yi? A court not even as strong as a heavenly dynasty?" the second elder sneered.


    "Fools! Do you know where you are?" Princess Nine-Tails shouted.


    The second elder nced at her indifferently. "Princess Nine-Tails of Taichu? Don''t worry. We won''t touch any of you. We only want Zhong Shan dead!"


    "Zhong Shan is under Taichu''s protection. Killing him means dering war on Taichu. Have you thought this through?" Hongxiao warned.


    The second elder frowned, then replied, "General Hongxiao, we have considered the consequences. Please do not interfere. Our determination is clear with the presence of four Great Celestials. If you obstruct us, we cannot guarantee what might happen."


    "Hahaha, Great Celestials? You think you are worthy of the title?" Zhong Shanughed scornfully.


    The four elders'' eyes widened in anger.


    "Afraid to even draw your weapons? I guess I overestimated you! Show me your weapons. If you dare toe here, you must have brought celestial weapons," Zhong Shan mocked.


    As he spoke, the sky turned purple, with lightning and thunder roaring. The surroundings changed, the ind scene disappearing, reced by Zhong Shan''s Divine Realm.


    In the Divine Realm, there were only five people: the four elders and Zhong Shan. Su Afo and the others were not included.


    Inside Zhong Shan''s Divine Realm, the four elders stood facing Zhong Shan, their expressions turning serious.


    "This is your Divine Realm?" the second elder asked, his voice tinged with surprise.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan replied, his eyes sharp and focused.


    The second elder sneered, "Do you think your Divine Realm can save you?"


    "We''ll see," Zhong Shan said coldly, his hand gripping his weapon tightly.


    The second elder and the others summoned their celestial weapons, the air around them crackling with intense energy.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with determination. "Come, let''s end this!"


    With a fierce battle cry, the five of them shed, the power of their celestial weapons shaking the very fabric of the Divine Realm. The fight was intense, each strike resounding like thunder, the air thick with the sh of their immense energies.


    Zhong Shan moved with precision and strength, countering each of the elders'' attacks. His Divine Realm provided him with an edge, the environment bending to his will, amplifying his power.


    The four elders, despite theirbined might, found themselves struggling against Zhong Shan''s relentless assault. His mastery of his realm and hisbat skills were overwhelming.


    "You underestimate me," Zhong Shan said, his voice echoing with confidence. "This is your end!"


    With a final, devastating strike, Zhong Shan unleashed the full power of his Divine Realm, engulfing the elders in a torrent of energy. The air vibrated with the intensity of the attack, and the four elders were obliterated, their celestial weapons shattered, their bodies disintegrating into nothingness.


    As thest echoes of the battle faded, Zhong Shan stood alone, victorious. The Divine Realm returned to normal, the ind reappearing around him.


    Outside the Divine Realm, Su Afo, Princess Nine-Tails, and Hongxiao watched in awe. The sheer disy of power and the swift conclusion of the battle left them speechless.


    Zhong Shan stepped out of his realm, his expression calm andposed.


    "It''s over," he said quietly.


    The others could only nod, still processing the incredible disy they had just witnessed. Zhong Shan''s strength and determination had proven once again that he was a force to be reckoned with.


    The four elders stared at Zhong Shan, and the second elder, surprised, said, "Impressive courage, challenging us four Great Celestials with just a Celestial body. You are indeed a remarkable Sacred King. Regardless, your spirit is unmatched, and we will try to leave half of your body intact."


    "Half a body?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    As he spoke, each of the four elders retrieved a treasure: a de, two swords, and a divine orb.


    "Four celestial weapons?" Zhong Shan squinted, and at the same time, his Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail shrank to palm size and climbed onto his shoulder.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail''s eight tails swayed slightly, its ck eyes gleaming with intense greed as it stared at the four celestial weapons and the four Great Celestials.


    "Yiya yiya yiya!" The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail kept chirping, seemingly eager to pounce.


    The four elders were slightly taken aback. A pet? What is this? They exchanged nces, not taking it seriously, and prepared to eliminate Zhong Shan immediately.


    Outside, on the ind.


    The sky was filled with a faint purple light as Zhong Shan and the four elders suddenly vanished.


    The unexpected change startled everyone.


    "No way, Zhong Shan is going to fight four Great Celestials alone? A Celestial against four Great Celestials, is that even possible?" Su Afo eximed in shock.


    "Why not? Zhong Shan is my retainer!" Princess Nine-Tails said matter-of-factly.


    "But, Your Highness, even if Sacred King Zhong is extraordinary, he''s still just a Celestial. Could he be in danger? Should we help?" Hongxiao asked, frowning.


    "No need to worry. Can''t you see? This is Zhong Shan''s ''world.'' If he is in danger, he can easily escape. Then we can intervene. They''re just four sea sharks in human form," Princess Nine-Tails said dismissively.


    "Alright," Hongxiao agreed, but he couldn''t help feeling worried for Zhong Shan.


    Princess Nine-Tails watched the purple light in the sky intently, her previous yful demeanor reced by a grave and serious expression.


    Su Afo nced at Princess Nine-Tails, a strange look in his eyes, but he patiently waited as well.


    And so, they waited for an entire day.


    "Zhong Shan better be alright; I still need him to teach me how to charm a saintess," Su Afo said worriedly.


    "He should be fine. This is still Sacred King Zhong''s ''world,''" Hongxiao reassured.


    As they waited, a streak of light shot from a distance, heading straight for the ind.


    In an instant, it arrived��a man in a red robe, covered in blood, looking utterly disheveled and terrified.


    "The fourth elder of the sea shark n?" Hongxiao squinted his eyes.


    "Second brother? Second brother?" The red-robed man wailed.


    It seemed he could sense the presence of the other sea shark n elders. As soon as he arrived, he started shouting.


    "Boom!"


    A loud explosion resounded in the void, and a blue light ball suddenly shot out, or rather, it escaped from Zhong Shan''s Divine Realm.


    The blue light revealed a disheveled man, the second elder, his celestial weapon gone, his face full of panic.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan''s figure slowly emerged, but the other three elders were nowhere to be seen.


    "You, you devil!" the second elder screamed in terror.


    "You''re already a Great Celestial, and you''re afraid of a devil?" Zhong Shan mocked.


    As Zhong Shan spoke, his right hand emitted a faint silver light, as if he was about to unleash the Opening Heaven Palm again. However, just as the silver light flickered, Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted, and the light dissipated.


    "Second brother, I finally found you!" the fourth elder suddenly rushed towards the second elder.


    "Old Fourth, why are you here?" the second elder asked in surprise, keeping a wary eye on Zhong Shan.


    "They''re all dead, all of them. Our Sea Shark n has been exterminated. The king and all the other elders are dead!" the fourth elder wailed in anguish.


    "What?!" the second elder shouted in disbelief.


    "It was Cheng Baiyi of the Purple Heaven Daoist Temple. He personally acted. No one could escape. The eldest brother died to let me escape and inform you all to flee!" the fourth elder said mournfully.


    "Exterminated?" The second elder staggered, finding it hard to ept the blow.


    "Second brother, where are the others?" the fourth elder asked.


    At this question, the second elder shuddered, looking at Zhong Shan in terror.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan did not make another move. For some reason, he descended onto the ind,nding among Princess Nine-Tails and the others.


    "They''re all dead. Let''s go, let''s leave this ce, leave this ce!" the second elder said in panic.


    "Leave? Do you think you can leave?" A shout echoed from the void.


    This was the reason Zhong Shan had stopped his pursuit earlier. He had sensed the presence of a powerful individual, so he didn''t continue with the Opening Heaven Palm.


    Everyone looked up to see a white-robed man standing in mid-air, his eyes filled with extreme coldness.


    "It''s him? Is that Cheng Baiyi?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    He had seen this man before. Thest time, at Su Daji''s tomb, this man had apanied the Purple Heaven Daoist Temple''s leader.


    "Cheng Baiyi? Is it really you? Weren''t you at the Sea Shark Inds? Have you been following me?" the fourth elder cried out in rm.


    "If I hadn''t followed you, how would I have found the remnants? Those who dare to desecrate the saintess of Purple Heaven must die. I vowed to exterminate your n, and I keep my word!" Cheng Baiyi said coldly.


    As he spoke, Cheng Baiyi extended his hand, and a white palm formed in the void, reaching for the second and fourth elders.


    Both were already severely injured. In the face of the powerful Cheng Baiyi, they seemed unable to move and were swiftly enveloped by the white palm.


    "Boom!" A loud explosion resounded as the white palm slowly dissipated, revealing the crushed remains of the two Sea Shark n elders.


    Cheng Baiyi had crushed the two elders with a single hand. He then looked deeply at Zhong Shan, as if challenging him. That palm seemed to be a direct response to Zhong Shan''s Opening Heaven Palm from a month ago.


    Zhong Shan didn''t say anything, only stared at Cheng Baiyi.


    Cheng Baiyi seemed satisfied with his actions, his figure flickering before disappearing from everyone''s sight.


    "Cheng Baiyi Daoist Lord? Such a strong killing intent, he exterminated the Sea Shark n?" Hongxiao frowned.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan said, stepping back into the hall.


    The three celestial-ranked Sea Shark n beasts and four celestial weapons were all devoured by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, raising Zhong Shan''s cultivation to the fifth level of the Celestial Realm. The Boundless Sea truly was a treasure trove!


    Half a monthter, on an ind in the Boundless Sea, Sima Qing stood on the beach, looking out over the ocean with his hands behind his back, while Sima Qianjun stood behind him.


    "Little Prince, the Sea Shark n has been exterminated. Cheng Baiyi acted personally," Sima Qianjun reported.


    "Exterminated? So be it. It''s a pity they couldn''t kill the saintess of the Purple Heaven Daoist Temple. Useless!" Sima Qing said coldly.


    "But..." Sima Qianjun hesitated.


    "Don''t worry about it. I didn''t n to use the Sea Shark n for long. It''s just unfortunate they couldn''t kill the saintess. We''ll have to devise a new n," Sima Qing sighed slightly.

 Chapter 870: The Five-Color Divine Stone

    <h4>Chapter 870: The Five-Color Divine Stone</h4>


    In the Boundless Sea, at the Purple Heaven Daoist Temple''s encampment, Cheng Baiyi returned triumphantly after exterminating the Sea Shark n.


    "Congrattions, Daoist Lord, for your great disy of power. The Sea Shark n has been reduced to ashes!" a disciple of the Purple Heaven Daoist Temple ttered immediately.


    "Did youplete the task I assigned to you?" Cheng Baiyi asked indifferently.


    "Yes, Daoist Lord. I found some records about Zhong Shan that the Purple Heaven Daoist Temple had previously collected. It wasn''t difficult to locate them," the disciple reported.


    "Hmm?"


    "It turns out that the saintess and Zhong Shan knew each other before. When Zhong Shan joined the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty as an official, it was the saintess who introduced him. They even came from the same sect, the Kaiyang Sect!"


    "Oh?" Cheng Baiyi''s pupils contracted, and his expression turned sour.


    "It''s true. The detailed ounts of the Kaiyang Sect and the Da Luo Heavenly Dynasty were all found in the records," the disciple exined thoroughly.


    After hearing this, Cheng Baiyi''s face grew darker and darker. Nodding, he said, "Understood. You may leave now."


    "Yes, Daoist Lord!" The disciple quickly retreated.


    Cheng Baiyi was left alone in the hall, pacing back and forth.


    "No wonder Zi Xun is so indifferent to me. It''s because of this Zhong Shan?" Cheng Baiyi''s expression grew cold.


    "Zhong Shan? Hmph!"---


    In the Boundless Sea, on an ind, in a vast valley.


    Thousands of people knelt on one knee, each with a solemn and cold expression.


    At the forefront of these thousands of people, standing on arge rock, was a man in a yellow robe, the "Human Sovereign" Zhong Shan had seen before.


    Human Sovereign looked at the thousands of kneeling strong men. After a moment of silence, he said calmly, "The grand enterprise of the Divine Emperor must not fail. This is a once-in-a-millennium opportunity in the Boundless Sea. You are only allowed sess, not failure!"


    "Yes!" thousands of people responded in unison.


    "Your lives belong to the Divine Emperor. Even if you are asked to offer your souls to the Divine Emperor, you shall not hesitate!" Human Sovereign said solemnly.


    "Shall not hesitate!" the crowd shouted in unison, as if they had been brainwashed, their hearts filled with loyalty to the Divine Emperor.


    "Good. It''s time. Begin your tasks!" Human Sovereign ordered.


    "Yes!" the crowd responded, then they soared into the sky, shooting off in all directions---


    Zhong Shan continuously analyzed arge amount of information on the ind. Over time, he became more certain that the treasure mentioned by Su Daji would appear on the seventh day of the sixth month.


    However, countless people must have searched for the treasure at noon on the seventh day of the sixth month before, without finding anything special. What is the secret hidden in the Boundless Sea?


    "I found it! The treasure of Nuwa has appeared!" Su Afo rushed into the hall in excitement.


    "What?" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    "Nuwa''s treasure? It''s been found?" Princess Nine-Tails was also surprised.


    "Yes, it''s true! Now, the entire ce is buzzing with the news. More and more strong men are rushing there!" Su Afo said.


    "What''s going on?" Zhong Shan frowned. There''s still a long time before the seventh day of the sixth month!


    "It''s on an ind to the east of the Boundless Sea. That area has always belonged to the Taiyi Sacred Court for a long time..." Su Afo said.


    "Ghost Ind? That extremely yin and evil ce?" Zhong Shan''s mind immediately conjured up an image of the location.


    "Yes, that''s the ce. That ind is heavily tainted with demonic energy or perhaps carries a great burden of karmic retribution. Ordinary people don''t dare to linger there. Before I left, my old man instructed me that while other ces were fair game, that Ghost Ind should be avoided! But the treasure is right there on that ind," Su Afo sighed.


    "How are you so sure?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "Do you know what''s on that ind?" Su Afo asked.


    "What?"


    "A nine-zhang tall boulder."


    "What kind of boulder?"


    "A Five-Color Divine Stone! The same kind that only Goddess Nuwa possessed in ancient times. It can mend space, stop the flow of time, and patch holes in the heavens," Su Afo said excitedly.


    "Five-Color Divine Stone?" Princess Nine-Tails'' eyes shone brightly.


    "Is it certain?" Zhong Shan asked, still skeptical.


    "Absolutely. Many people have seen it with their own eyes. Half a month ago, a multicolored light shot into the sky. The strongmen of the Taiyi Sacred Court immediately set up a powerful formation to protect everything within. But word still got out, and memory crystals capturing the event were leaked. Now, the entire Boundless Sea is buzzing with the news of the Five-Color Divine Stone," Su Afo said, brimming with excitement.


    "But...," Zhong Shan furrowed his brows.


    "No buts, this is it. The Boundless Sea, the Boundless Sea... I finally understand Goddess Nuwa''s hint," Su Afo said, his eyes gleaming.


    "A hint?" Princess Nine-Tails asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, remember the legend of the stone monkey that took shape? In the Boundless Country to the east of the Boundless Sea, on a mountain called Flower Fruit Mountain, a stone monkey emerged. Isn''t that exactly Goddess Nuwa''s Five-Color Divine Stone? The Boundless Country, the Boundless Sea, Goddess Nuwa was hinting to us. This is the treasure!" Su Afo exined.


    "Indeed. And this Five-Color Divine Stone is nine zhang tall?" Princess Nine-Tails said excitedly.


    "Yes, the one on Flower Fruit Mountain was only about three zhang tall. This one is nine zhang? It''s much bigger. The word has already spread. The Five-Color Divine Stone can be used to forge an external avatar. Once sessfully created, the avatar''s strength would be equivalent to an ancient immortal!" Su Afo''s eyes sparkled.


    "An ancient immortal?" Princess Nine-Tails was equally thrilled.


    "No, something''s not right," Zhong Shan said, still frowning.


    "What do you mean?"


    "Ghost Ind is within the territory of the Taiyi Sacred Court. If they knew it was the Five-Color Divine Stone, they would have taken it long ago. Why would they leave it there?" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "They can''t take it away. More and more strongmen are converging there; they can''t just leave now. The Five-Color Divine Stone is such a heavenly treasure that it can''t be stored in a storage space," Su Afo exined.


    "Then why not before?"


    "Uh, before? Maybe the Taiyi Sacred Court... uh..." Su Afo was stumped.


    "Yes, if they had known it was the Five-Color Divine Stone, they would have taken it long ago. Why wait until now? The area around Ghost Ind has always been under the Taiyi Sacred Court''s control. Besides, many saints have visited the Boundless Sea. Could they have overlooked such a significant Five-Color Divine Stone?" Zhong Shan pondered.


    "I know!" Princess Nine-Tails suddenly eximed.


    "Uh?"


    "Didn''t you say before that only the fox n can take this treasure, and others simply can''t? There must be a saint''s restriction or something that requires the presence of the fox n!" Princess Nine-Tails said excitedly.


    "Maybe," Zhong Shan said, still frowning.


    "Let''s go take a look first!" Princess Nine-Tails suggested.


    Zhong Shan, Su Afo, and Princess Nine-Tails quickly set off towards Ghost Ind, their hearts filled with anticipation and a tinge of apprehension. The allure of the Five-Color Divine Stone was too great to ignore, but Zhong Shan''s cautious nature kept him wary of what might lie ahead.


    "Mm!" Zhong Shan nodded. Despite his doubts, it was best to go and see for himself. The Five-Colored Divine Stone? Zhong Shan, Su Afo, Nine-Tailed Princess, and Hong Xiao, the four of them, headed straight for the so-called Ghost Ind Sea Region. The Ghost Ind Sea Region was covered by dark clouds even before they reached it. It had always been overcast, filled with an incredibly fierce and evil aura. Many powerful cultivators were converging from all directions. The nearby inds were barren and deste, making the scene even more striking. "This is the Ghost Ind Sea Region, a peculiar area in the Ao Lai Sea. Its origin is unknown, but it existed even before Nuwa''s demise. Therefore, no one associated it with anything significant. After all, this environment isn''t unique in the Ao Lai Sea!" Hong Xiao exined. "Mm!" Zhong Shan nodded, continuing to fly eastward. After another incense stick of time, they stopped. The powerful cultivators ahead were densely packed, with the sea surface filled with arriving strongmen. However, everyone had stopped, frowning as they looked at the gigantic Ghost Ind, or rather, the terrifying formation around it. The interior was shrouded in mist, while the exterior was surrounded by countless ck holes spinning around the massive ind. ck holes? Zhong Shan was all too familiar with them. In the Small Thousand World, spatial stability was weak, and a Sky Extreme Realm cultivator could shatter space, creating ck holes. But in the Great Thousand World, even Zhong Shan couldn''t break space, not even causing a ripple. Yet around the Ghost Ind, countless ck holes were rotating, making it dangerous for anyone to approach. These ck holes not only spun but also appeared and disappeared unpredictably. No one knew where a ck hole might appear next. Through these ck holes, Zhong Shan felt an awe-inspiring force, sending a chill down his spine. A sense of extreme danger suddenly arose. The ck holes in the Great Thousand World were far more formidable than those in the Small Thousand World. Even an Ancient Immortal would struggle to escape unscathed. This formation blocked everyone, and no one dared to challenge its might. The vast Ghost Ind was enormous; even Zhong Shan couldn''t see its entirety with his cultivation. Zhong Shan didn''t rush forward but instead observed the surrounding strongmen. There were at least thirty million cultivators, drawn by the lure of a Sage''s treasure. Indeed, an Ancient Immortal-level avatar was far more valuable than an Ancient Immortal weapon. Who wouldn''t want it? More strongmen kept arriving, making the area unusually crowded. "Zhong Shan!" Suddenly, a loud shout rang out, startling everyone. All eyes focused on Zhong Shan. Turning around, Zhong Shan saw Cheng Baiyi, whom he had encountered half a month ago. Cheng Baiyi had a smile on his face, but it sent a chill down Zhong Shan''s spine. Cheng Baiyi? What does he want with me? "Cheng Baiyi?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled. "I''ve heard that King Zhong''s palm technique is astounding. Recently, you supposedly shattered a ''world'' with one palm and crushed a Great Immortal? I, Cheng Baiyi, am also a practitioner of palm techniques. I wish to verify the truth of these rumors through a duel!" Cheng Baiyi challenged. Cheng Baiyi''s words sent shockwaves through the crowd. Everyone knew him; he was one of the most famous figures in the Zixiao Daochang, with boundless power. Some said he was close to bing an Ancient Immortal, while others imed he already was one. What is he doing? Challenging me? And in front of millions of cultivators? "Don''t worry, it''s just a friendly match. I won''t take your life!" Cheng Baiyi sneered.

 Chapter 871: A Hair鈥檚 Breadth Away

    <h4>Chapter 871: A Hair''s Breadth Away</h4>


    "Don''t worry, it''s just a sparring match. I won''t take your life!" Cheng Baiyi said with a wicked smile.


    Cheng Baiyi''s words wereden with provocation, instantly drawing the attention of all the cultivators near Ghost Ind. Their anxiety over being unable to break the formation was momentarily forgotten in the face of this new spectacle.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed as he focused on Cheng Baiyi. This wasn''t a negotiation; it was a forced demand. Sparring? Between members of different factions, in front of so many spectators? What was Cheng Baiyi really after?


    "Who is Zhong Shan?"


    "Are you from the underworld? You don''t know Zhong Shan? He''s the Saint King of Daeng! He recently killed a great immortal with a single palm strike!"


    "Killed a great immortal with one palm? Is he also a great immortal? Peak level?"


    "No, the rumors say he''s only at the second level of heavenly immortality. But his palm strike is incredibly powerful. No one knows how he did it, but the fact remains that he killed a great immortal with one blow."


    "Second level of heavenly immortality? He''s doomed! Cheng Baiyi is a renowned powerhouse from Zixiao Dojo."


    "Why does Cheng Baiyi want to spar with Zhong Shan here?"


    "Does he want to kill Zhong Shan?"


    "No, Cheng Baiyi said he won''t take Zhong Shan''s life."


    "And you believe him?"


    ...


    The crowd buzzed with spection, but one thing was certain: Cheng Baiyi''s "sparring match" had piqued everyone''s curiosity.


    "Cheng Baiyi, what are you trying to do? Do you want to make an enemy of Taichu? Not long ago, the Saintess of Zixiao was in danger, and Zhong Shan saved her with all his might. Have you forgotten that so quickly? Or do you want to see the Saintess dead because you missed your chance and now want to take it out on Zhong Shan?" Nine-Tailed Princess suddenly shouted.


    "Wow!"


    Nine-Tailed Princess''s words caused another uproar. Despite her somewhat overbearing nature, she was very intelligent. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have earned Su Afu''s respect in Qingqiu, nor would she have recognized Zhong Shan''s abilities at a nce.


    With her words, Nine-Tailed Princess highlighted that Zhong Shan had just saved the Zixiao Saintess, making Cheng Baiyi''s current actions seem ungrateful and malicious. Furthermore, she implied that Cheng Baiyi had wanted the Saintess dead, and now sought to me Zhong Shan for her survival.


    In an instant, Cheng Baiyi''s reputation plummeted in everyone''s eyes. Even if these words reached Zixiao Dojo, it would tarnish his image, especially in the eyes of Zixun, making her even more displeased with him.


    Cheng Baiyi''s eyes widened in anger as he said deeply, "I said I won''t take Zhong Shan''s life. I just want to spar."


    "Why now? Why not say this half a month ago?" Zhong Shan said calmly.


    Nine-Tailed Princess''s remarks had swayed many people to Zhong Shan''s side, creating a momentum that made it seem like Zhong Shan had the upper hand. Zhong Shan seized this moment to question Cheng Baiyi.


    "No reason. I just want the world to see whether your palm strike is stronger or mine!" Cheng Baiyi sneered.


    Cheng Baiyi''s goal was not only to show the world but more importantly, to prove to Zixun that he was far stronger than Zhong Shan. Even though Zixun couldn''t see this now, she would know in the future. Cheng Baiyi wanted Zixun to understand his superiority over Zhong Shan.


    Today, this palm strike was going to happen, no matter what.


    Zhong Shan looked deeply at Cheng Baiyi, as if seeing through his determination. Without wasting more words, Zhong Shan said with greatposure, "Since Daoist Cheng Baiyi is so eager to test, let''s give it a try."


    "Spar? Are you serious?"


    In that moment, everything fell silent. Everyone was stunned, eyes wide with disbelief. Sparring? Zhong Shan actually wanted to spar?


    A second-level heavenly immortal against someone who seemed like an ancient immortal?


    For the first time, people understood what it meant to court death. A heavenly immortal against an ancient immortal?


    "Has the Saint King of Daeng lost his mind?"


    "Who knows, this is strange. Cheng Baiyi''s strength is well-known, while Zhong Shan, no matter how strong, is still just a heavenly immortal."


    ...


    No one believed in Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, have you gone mad? Sparring with him? He faced off against the Demon Chess Saintst time!" A-Fo eximed.


    "Yes, Zhong Shan, are you alright? He''s an ancient immortal. No matter how strong you are, you can''t defeat him across two realms. He''s trying to humiliate you!" Nine-Tailed Princess said anxiously.


    "He''s not an ancient immortal yet," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Not an ancient immortal yet? How do you know?" Nine-Tailed Princess asked, eyes filled with doubt.


    "He''s at most at the peak of great immortal. Thest time he faced off against the Demon Chess Saint, it was because the Chess Saint had just broken through to ancient immortal and hadn''t fully adapted yet. He couldn''t see through Cheng Baiyi at the time!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Are you sure?" Nine-Tailed Princess asked, a hint of doubt shing in her eyes.


    "I''m sure!" Zhong Shan replied firmly.


    Zhong Shan was so certain because he had observed Cheng Baiyi closely. In Su Daji''s tomb, Zhong Shan''s cultivation was only at the fourth level of heavenly immortality. After swallowing the powerful Sea Shark n member and the great immortal artifact half a month ago, he had reached the fifth level of heavenly immortality.


    This was a qualitative leap. The outside world still believed him to be at the second level of heavenly immortality.


    Such a drastic change, if revealed, would shock everyone. After all, every step in an immortal''s cultivation was incredibly arduous.


    To see through someone''s cultivation, one must surpass them by two realms. This meant only an ancient immortal could truly see Zhong Shan''s cultivation level, even his foundational bone structure.


    Zhong Shan''s seemingly fragile yet powerful foundational bone would astonish any ancient immortal. If such a foundational bone could break through so quickly, it would certainly draw their attention. Thest time the leader of Zixiao saw Zhong Shan''s cultivation, his pupils had contracted and his brows furrowed.


    But Cheng Baiyi didn''t react. Even half a month ago, seeing Zhong Shan''s breakthrough, he showed no response.


    This indicated that Cheng Baiyi was not an ancient immortal. He was merely a great immortal with ess to unique immortal techniques, artifacts, or experiences from Zixiao Dojo.


    A great immortal? As long as he wasn''t an ancient immortal, Zhong Shan never feared them!


    Zhong Shan and Cheng Baiyi''s "sparring match" attracted countless onlookers. This was a sh between two different power levels. Would it go as people expected?


    The Saint King of Daeng was a respected king, after all!


    People watched with anticipation. On a distant ind peak, Sima Qianjun stood with a group.


    "Hasn''t the little prince and Second Uncle arrived yet?" Sima Qianjun frowned.


    "It might take some more time. The little prince hasn''t finished his matters," a servant replied.


    "That''s a pity. They''ll miss the grand spectacle," Sima Qianjun clicked his tongue.


    As he spoke, a surge of resentment shed in Sima Qianjun''s eyes. The humiliation he suffered from Zhong Shan erupted, and he stared into the distance, hoping Cheng Baiyi would kill Zhong Shan with one strike.


    On the distant horizon, the two men faced each other coldly. Nine-Tailed Princess, A-Fo, and Hong Xiao had all stepped back, wishing Zhong Shan well.


    "You go first, lest people think I''m bullying you!" Cheng Baiyi said with a faint smile.


    The onlookers were speechless. An ''ancient immortal'' sparring with a heavenly immortal��what fairness was there to speak of? But the crowd, here for the Five-Colored Divine Stone, wasn''t exactly filled with paragons of justice, so they watched with a sense of amusement.


    Only Su Afu and Nine-Tailed Princess showed deep disdain in their eyes.


    Zhong Shan did not hesitate. With his fifth-level heavenly immortal strength, his Sky-Opening Palm had be even more formidable. With a slight step forward, his right palm seemed to gather strength as he slowly extended it. As his palm moved, it shone with a silver light, enveloped in clouds and smoke, with countless runes swirling around it.


    As Zhong Shanunched his palm, a gigantic handprint, thousands of feet tall, materialized in the void, identical to Zhong Shan''s right palm. It grew more solid and powerful, emitting a terrifying aura that seemed to press the sea surface downward, causing towering waves in the distance.


    This terrifying palm strike rushed straight at Cheng Baiyi.


    Cheng Baiyi''s eyes narrowed. He knew Zhong Shan''s palm was strong but hadn''t expected it to be this powerful��far beyond what a heavenly immortal should be capable of. How could he produce such a powerful strike?


    Not daring to dy, Cheng Baiyi mirrored Zhong Shan''s move,unching his own palm strike. In the void, a white palm materialized.


    One white, one silver��the colors were almost the same, but Zhong Shan''s palm had a metallic sheen and countless runes swirling around it.


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous explosion shook the sea, sending waves crashing wildly. The impact was so great it seemed to scatter the dark clouds in the sky.


    The two palms collided and held each other in a stalemate. Both men were testing each other''s limits, their palm strength continuously rising.


    Cheng Baiyi''s eyes were filled with astonishment, but also with madness. His powerful palm technique, using 80% of his peak great immortal strength, couldn''t ovee Zhong Shan. But he believed Zhong Shan had reached his limit.


    With bloodshot eyes, Cheng Baiyi exerted more force, pushing his white palm against Zhong Shan''s silver palm.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan seemed to be fueled by a fierce anger. He intended to use this opportunity to make a statement.


    Demonic Body Tempering! Seventh Level!


    Eightfold strength. As Zhong Shan''s eyes widened, his entire body swelled, and his terrifying power surged. The force of his right palm increased dramatically.


    The terrifying palm, now eight times stronger, caused Cheng Baiyi''s face to change drastically.


    Meanwhile, on a distant ind, Sima Qianjun held a long bow, nocking a golden arrow, aiming directly at Zhong Shan.


    "Young master, that''s a great immortal artifact. If youunch a sneak attack, even an ancient immortal might not intercept it in time. If it hits Zhong Shan, how will you exin it to the Saint King?" a servant eximed.


    "I want Zhong Shan dead!" Sima Qianjun said venomously.


    With those words, Sima Qianjun released the arrow. The golden arrow flew at the speed of light, aiming straight for Zhong Shan''s vital point.


    "Whoosh!"


    The arrow moved too fast, reaching Zhong Shan''s back in an instant, just as Zhong Shan was exerting full force against Cheng Baiyi, leaving him no time to defend his rear.

 Chapter 872: The Enigmatic Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 872: The Enigmatic Emperor</h4>


    The arrow moved like a lightning bolt, its speed astonishingly fast, reaching Zhong Shan''s back almost instantly. The crowd gasped in shock at the sinister timing of the shot,ing just as Zhong Shan was exerting his full strength.


    Nine-Tailed Princess''s eyes widened in panic, but it was toote to help. Even an ancient immortal might not be able to intervene in such a brief moment, unless they possessed time-maniption abilities, which were exceedingly rare and had no connection to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s Demonic Body Tempering, Seventh Level! Eightfold power erupted explosively.


    In an instant, the power of the Sky-Opening Palm surged eightfold, and Zhong Shan''s form swelled to twice its size. In the void, a massive hand collided with a smaller one, akin to an adult''s hand meeting an infant''s.


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous explosion shattered Cheng Baiyi''s white palm, sending towering waves surging across the sea.


    At that precise moment, the golden arrow pierced Zhong Shan''s back.


    Zhong Shan''s instincts screamed danger, and his back hairs stood on end. He was ready to activate his Eight Extreme Demon Tail, but the speed of the great immortal artifact was too incredible. Just as death loomed over him, another treasure within Zhong Shan activated.


    "Boom!"


    From Zhong Shan''s back, a burst of white light erupted, and a ten-foot-square painting unfolded, shielding his back.


    The painting, mostly white with countless clouds, seemed to contain endless mountains and rivers. At its center was a striking ck dot.


    The golden arrow shot into the painting and vanished within its depths.


    The painting acted like a spatial treasure, absorbing the golden arrow.


    In an astonishing twist, the arrow reemerged from the ck dot, now turned around, heading back the way it came at the same speed.


    "Whoosh!"


    The transformation happened in a blink. The arrow, painting, and its reemergence all urred within a fleeting instant.


    The golden arrow, following its original path, shot back with incredible speed.


    Everyone was stunned. What kind of treasure was this? Reflection? No, the arrowhead had turned around. A spatial world within the painting?


    What kind of treasure was this? Everyone looked at Zhong Shan with shock.


    An immortal artifact? More than that��it was miraculous! What kind of treasure was this?


    In that brief moment, the painting returned to Zhong Shan''s body.


    The crowd erupted. What kind of treasure was that? So mysterious and wondrous? Zhong Shan had just opened the heavens, so where did he get such a treasure?


    It was an artifact crafted by Zhong Shan himself, a primal chaos treasure��the Emperor''s Painting!


    As Zhong Shan''s palm defeated Cheng Baiyi, he turned to look back at the direction from which the golden arrow hade.


    A sneak attack? In front of so many people, someone dared to attack?


    On the distant ind peak, Sima Qianjun had shot the arrow, a great immortal artifact. This sneak attack, even ancient immortals might struggle to intercept. Zhong Shan was surely doomed.


    With the arrow released, Sima Qianjun felt an immense sense of satisfaction, as if the resentment he''d harbored towards Zhong Shan was being fully unleashed. There was no time; Zhong Shan couldn''t possibly dodge it. The Soul-Destroying Arrow, once piercing the body, would annihte the soul, ensuring instantaneous death.


    Sima Qianjun prepared to leave immediately after witnessing Zhong Shan''s death.


    However, what Sima Qianjun saw in his pupils was the golden arrow speeding back towards him, the arrowhead aimed straight at him. How could this be?


    "Thud!"


    The arrow pierced Sima Qianjun. Until his dying breath, he couldn''t understand how the arrow he shot suddenly turned back on him. How could this happen?


    Filled with intense unwillingness, Sima Qianjun died instantly.


    "Young master, young master!" his attendants screamed in terror.


    Arge group of Sima family subordinates rushed over, but it was toote for Sima Qianjun.


    "Hurry, hurry, the elixir, the great elixir, save the young master!" the attendants shouted in panic.


    But Sima Qianjun hadn''t used an ordinary arrow. His scheme to kill Zhong Shan ended up backfiring, and there was no cure for his self-inflicted demise.


    Zhong Shan turned his head just in time to witness Sima Qianjun''s self-destruction.


    With a cold nce, Zhong Shan dismissed it.


    "Was it Sima Qianjun? That scoundrel!" A-Fo eximed.


    "Hong Xiao, capture everyone on that ind and detain them!" Nine-Tailed Princess ordered angrily.


    "Yes!" Hong Xiao responded immediately.


    At this moment, the onlookers were all in shock.


    The Saint King of Daeng? This was the Saint King of Daeng? He was terrifyingly powerful.


    He had faced an ''ancient immortal'' with the strength of a heavenly immortal and forced his opponent back. He even dealt with a sneak attack from behind. Was he even human?


    No one doubted Zhong Shan''s strength anymore. Weak? Try pushing back an ancient immortal''s palm while fending off a great immortal artifact''s sneak attack.


    Those who had supported Zhong Shan felt a surge of exhration and excitement. The image of the Saint King of Daeng soared in their minds.


    Second level of heavenly immortality? What a joke. Could Zhong Shan really be at the second level of heavenly immortality?


    The rumors about Zhong Shan would spread throughout the Fengzhong Domain after today''s battle.


    Cheng Baiyi hadn''t expected the sneak attack on Zhong Shan but was more shocked by Zhong Shan''s palm strike. He was a peak great immortal with extraordinarily powerful hands. Why? Why was Zhong Shan''s palm so formidable?


    Cheng Baiyi couldn''t believe it. It was impossible. How could he be pushed back by Zhong Shan?


    Cheng Baiyi didn''t know that this wasn''t Zhong Shan''s strongest palm. Zhong Shan''s most powerful technique was the "First Form of Sky-Opening." In a past battle with Kong Xuan, even Kong Xuan''s formidable eighteen-armed golden body couldn''t withstand it. Of course, the requirements for the "First Form of Sky-Opening" were high, and Zhong Shan couldn''t use it in his current state.


    "Let''s go again!" Cheng Baiyi shouted in frustration.


    "Daoist Cheng Baiyi, what''s the point?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    This was a direct p to Cheng Baiyi''s face. The message was clear: Cheng Baiyi couldn''t ept defeat. Despite the sneak attack, Zhong Shan had still defeated him with one palm, and he refused to acknowledge it?


    Cheng Baiyi''s face turned red with shame. Instead of humiliating Zhong Shan as intended, the failed sneak attack left him feeling humiliated in front of the crowd. The frustration was enough to make him want to vomit blood.


    Staring at Zhong Shan, Cheng Baiyi''s face was extremely grim, and his eyes radiated a chilling coldness.


    "Daoist Cheng Baiyi? It''s just a spar. Why take it so seriously? The oue is clear. Why can''t you let it go?" A calm voice suddenly resonated from the void.


    As the voice spoke, a figure slowly materialized beside Zhong Shan. It was the Demon Chess Saint of the fox n.


    Cheng Baiyi''s eyes narrowed.


    "What, you want to interfere in my matters with Zhong Shan?" Cheng Baiyi said coldly.


    "Your matters with Zhong Shan? You wanted to spar with him, lost, and now you want to force another match?" the Demon Chess Saint said with a faint smile.


    "So what?" Cheng Baiyi''s eyes turned colder.


    "Well, I''ve been rather idletely and often feel like stretching my bones. Seeing Daoist Cheng Baiyi today, how about you and I spar a bit? I think my status wouldn''t insult you. How about right here?" the Demon Chess Saint suggested with a casual smile.


    Cheng Baiyi''s face grew even darker.


    The surrounding onlookers, having just witnessed a spectacr battle, were now eager for an even more exciting one. Each one watched with great interest.


    "Who is this person? Challenging Daoist Cheng Baiyi? Doesn''t this tone sound just like Cheng Baiyi''s when he was speaking to Zhong Shan?"


    "You don''t know this person? The top chess master of the Fengzhong Domain. But I heard he was defeated by Zhong Shan in a game of chess!"


    "The Demon Chess Saint? No way, beaten by Zhong Shan in chess? Isn''t Zhong Shan known for his imperial path?"


    "Are you from the underworld? Don''t you know? Where did the treasure from the Ai Sea Sainte from? It was an ancient immortal''s tomb that several generations of the Demon Chess Saint''s family couldn''t open, but Zhong Shan did!"


    "Is Zhong Shan really that powerful? Is Daeng really as weak as the rumors say?"


    "Weak? It seems the rumors aren''t true at all. Daeng? Daeng?"


    ...


    As people talked, they deeply remembered the name ''Daeng''.


    "Yes, the Demon Chess Saint. Duel him. People like him are shameless, challenging weaker cultivators and even getting others tounch sneak attacks," Nine-Tailed Princess suddenly jumped in.


    "The one whounched the sneak attack wasn''t my man; it was someone from your Taichu!" Cheng Baiyi''s face turned green with anger.


    Sima Qianjun''s sneak attack had nothing to do with Cheng Baiyi, but Nine-Tailed Princess''s usation immediately made everyone think otherwise. Indeed, this was disgraceful.


    "Someone from Taichu? What does that prove? Zhong Shan saved your Zixiao Saintess earlier, and now you want to embarrass him in front of everyone? Couldn''t that archer have been colluding with you to plot against Zhong Shan? One palm exchange followed by a sneak attack��if we go again, who knows how many more sneak attacks you''ll n!" Nine-Tailed Princess mocked.


    When had Cheng Baiyi ever been so humiliated? Despite his cultivation, he felt an overwhelming urge to vomit blood from the anger and shame.


    "You''re courting death!" Cheng Baiyi''s tone was chilling as he red at Nine-Tailed Princess.


    The Demon Chess Saint immediately stepped in front of Nine-Tailed Princess, his tone equally cold. "Cheng Baiyi, if you dare disrespect Nine-Tailed Princess, don''t me me for being impolite."


    "Why are you being polite to him? People like him just love showing off, especially in front of a crowd, by challenging weaker cultivators to disy their ''strength.'' Disgraceful!" Nine-Tailed Princess added fuel to the fire.


    Cheng Baiyi wasn''t the type to challenge weaker cultivators, but the current situation painted him as such, leaving him feeling utterly frustrated and close to spitting blood.

 Chapter 873: The Imitation of the Four Immortal-Slaying Swords

    <h4>Chapter 873: The Imitation of the Four Immortal-ying Swords</h4>


    "The Demon Chess Saint wants to spar? Let''s see if I meet your standards!" A calm voice echoed from the void once more.


    The voice was light, yet it spread throughout the entire area, causing everyone to be slightly stunned.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed, and a faint smile appeared on his lips. These old fellows, they couldn''t stay out of it any longer?


    Amid the bewilderment, a purple-robed man slowly materialized before Cheng Baiyi. It was the Zixiao Sect Master!


    As the Zixiao Sect Master appeared, the surrounding spectators stirred.


    The Zixiao Sect Master immediately looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Saint King of Daeng, your speed is impressive. Every time I see you, your cultivation improves. Do you have some secret method? Could you share it with everyone?" The Zixiao Sect Master gazed at Zhong Shan with sharp eyes.


    His tone wasn''t one of curiosity but rather one of solemnity, and Zhong Shan sensed a hint of murderous intent!


    "Zixiao Sect Master overpraises me. I''m just a mere heavenly immortal, hardly worth mentioning," Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Heavenly immortal? Can you still be measured by that term?" The Zixiao Sect Master sneered.


    "You didn''te here just to study my cultivation, did you?" Zhong Shan said calmly.


    The Zixiao Sect Master stared coldly at Zhong Shan, a sh of killing intent in his eyes.


    At this moment, the Demon Chess Saint stepped in front of Zhong Shan. "Greetings, Zixiao Sect Master!"


    "Master!" Cheng Baiyi also greeted respectfully.


    The Zixiao Sect Master nced at Cheng Baiyi before turning back to the Demon Chess Saint.


    "The Demon Chess Saint, interested in sparring with someone from my Zixiao Dojo? Very well, my dojo has never feared anyone!" The Zixiao Sect Master said calmly.


    His tone was light, but the underlying hostility was clear. He was defending Cheng Baiyi, intending to back him up.


    "The Zixiao Sect Master has be so protective? This is the first time I''ve seen it!" Another voice echoed from the void.


    Then, in front of the Demon Chess Saint, another figure appeared��a man wearing a silver mask and a loose white robe, the Taichu Saint King.


    "Greetings, Saint King!" The Demon Chess Saint, Su Afu, and Nine-Tailed Princess immediately bowed.


    At that moment, dozens of figures flew in from a distance, arriving quickly. It was Mr. Li and other strong members of Taichu.


    "The Taichu Saint King has arrived too?" The Zixiao Sect Master remarked with a smile.


    "The Nine Zhang High Five-Colored Divine Stone left by Lady Nuwa for Qingqiu��how could I note to im it? Are you interested in watching, Zixiao Sect Master?" The Taichu Saint King responded.


    "Whether it belongs to you is still uncertain. At least for now, it doesn''t belong to you. It''s still on Ghost Ind. Why not wait until the formation is broken to discuss it? Otherwise, we''ll give that old man Taiyi augh," the Zixiao Sect Master suggested.


    "Very well!" The Taichu Saint King didn''t argue further.


    This was obviously not something that could be resolved through argument. How could a few words convince others to give up on the Nine Zhang High Five-Colored Divine Stone? It was impossible.


    However, the arrival of the Taichu Saint King significantly eased the tension around them.


    Cheng Baiyi red hatefully at Zhong Shan.


    The Taichu Saint King, the Zixiao Sect Master, the Demon Chess Saint, Mr. Li, and others all turned their attention to the formation before them��a vast ck hole formation that sealed Ghost Ind airtight, with no apparent ws.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan quietly stepped aside.


    "Zhong Shan, you were amazing just now. How did you manage that palm strike? Cheng Baiyi was actually pushed back by you?" Su Afu asked excitedly.


    "Just luck," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "How could that be luck?" Su Afu was speechless.


    "Princess, you were impressive earlier!" Zhong Shan timely praised the Nine-Tailed Princess.


    "Of course!" The Nine-Tailed Princess replied proudly.


    Everyone waited as the ancient immortals studied the grand formation. Their hearts were filled with curiosity. Could this formation be broken?


    For so long, the Taiyi Sacred Court had set up this formation, confounding many, yet no one had managed to break it. Now, with a Saint King and a Sect Master present, could they decipher it?


    "Sect Master Zixiao, have you figured it out?" the Taichu Saint King asked.


    "Taiyi Saint King? In his past life, he was indeed one of the twelve disciples of the Primordial Saint. The Jade Void Kunlun Formation?" Sect Master Zixiao replied solemnly.


    "That''s right. I didn''t expect Sect Master Zixiao to recognize it. But can it be broken?" the Taichu Saint King asked.


    "Broken? A saint''s formation isn''t so easily broken," Sect Master Zixiao shook his head.


    "Mr. Li, what do you think?" the Taichu Saint King asked calmly.


    "I have been studying it for half a month and have made preparations," Mr. Li replied respectfully.


    "Oh? Mr. Li has a way to break it?" Sect Master Zixiao was slightly surprised.


    "The Jade Void Kunlun Formation is strong, but the person who set it upcks sufficient power. Breaking it isn''t difficult, but it won''t be done by me," Mr. Li smiled.


    "Oh? Then who will break it?" Sect Master Zixiao asked, puzzled.


    "Mr. Li must have a n already," the Taichu Saint King said.


    "Yes, I have informed Sima Qing. He will break this formation," Mr. Li said with a bow.


    "Sima Qing?" Everyone was slightly puzzled.


    "The Immortal-ying Sword Formation?" the Taichu Saint King''s eyebrows furrowed slightly.


    "Indeed. Sima Qing, with the help of hundreds of thousands of Sima family''s artifact masters, has crafted replicas of the four Immortal-ying Swords. Although they are not as powerful as the original swords of the Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning, they are among the best in the world," Mr. Li nodded.


    "Using the Immortal-ying Sword Formation to break the Jade Void Kunlun Formation? Mr. Li, your idea is indeed unique. Impressive!" Sect Master Zixiao praised.


    "Sima Qing hasn''t arrived yet?" the Taichu Saint King frowned.


    "He said he went to retrieve the swords. We can only wait a bit longer," Mr. Li replied respectfully.


    "Then let''s wait a bit longer," the Taichu Saint King nodded.


    The crowd waited patiently. Ten days passed. During this time, some who felt their chances of seizing the Five-Colored Divine Stone were slim gradually left, but more arrived, increasing in numbers. After ten days, nearly fifty million strong cultivators had gathered, and the numbers kept growing.


    On a remote ind far from the perimeter of Ghost Ind, a figure stood atop a mountain, gazing towards the sea surrounding Ghost Ind. A stern-faced man in a gray robe knelt on one knee behind him.


    "Sir, everything is ready. When shall we begin?" the gray-robed man asked respectfully.


    The figure, standing with hands behind his back, replied indifferently, "How many people are at the Ghost Ind sea area now?"


    "As ofst night, nearly fifty million cultivators at the Emperor Extreme Realm and above," the gray-robed man replied respectfully.


    "Fifty million? How many souls have we collected?" the figure asked again.


    "During your time in the small thousand world, we collected thirty million cultivators'' souls. Adding what you''ve collected over the years and the souls from the recentrge-scale conflicts in the Ai Sea, we have a total of forty million souls," the gray-robed man reported respectfully.


    "Forty million? Fifty million? Combined, that''s only ny million. It''s still not enough, we''re short by some," the figure frowned.


    "Don''t worry, sir. In a few more days, we should reach the number," the gray-robed man assured.


    "Very well! When the soul sacrifice at Ghost Ind begins, there must be no mistakes," the figure said calmly.


    "Understood!" the gray-robed man replied.


    After waiting for another five days, the number of strong cultivators gathered around Ghost Ind had reached an astonishing seventy million. The anticipation grew as more and more people arrived, eager to witness the legendary Five-Colored Divine Stone. Many had given up hope of obtaining it but were curious to see it and understand why only the fox n could im it.


    Almost everyone focused on the group of powerful figures near Ghost Ind.


    "Sima Qing greets the Saint King!" Sima Qing bowed deeply upon his arrival before the Taichu Saint King.


    "Have you brought the Four Immortal-ying Swords?"


    "Yes, your subordinate has fulfilled his mission. The Four Immortal-ying Swords are here, awaiting yourmand," Sima Qing replied.


    "Then let''s begin."


    "Yes, sir!"


    Everyone retreated. Sima Qing ascended alone into the sky.


    Standing high above, Sima Qing scanned the crowd, his gaze eventually settling on Zhong Shan. His eyes grew cold as he stared at the Saint King of Daeng. Wherever Zhong Shan went, trouble followed. Sima Qianjun had died because of him.


    This was not the time to confront Zhong Shan, so Sima Qing quickly shifted his focus to the grand formation before him.


    The Jade Void Kunlun Formation?


    The Five-Colored Divine Stone within the formation was something Sima Qing coveted. The stone wasn''t just for refining an ancient immortal avatar; it endowed the avatar with innate divine powers.


    In ancient times, the stone monkey from Flower Fruit Mountain of the Eastern Continent was proof. When it transformed, its eyes emitted golden light that reached the heavens, shaking the celestial pces. Even after consuming contaminated substances and losing some abilities, it still retained the divine power of fiery eyes.


    If a three-zhang-high Five-Colored Divine Stone could achieve such effects, what about one that was nine zhang high?


    Who wouldn''t desire this stone?


    Observing the countless ck holes encircling Ghost Ind, Sima Qing swung his sleeve, releasing four long swords.


    One purple, one red, one green, one ck.


    As the swords emerged, a chilling, menacing aura spread in all directions.


    The four swords expanded rapidly, reaching a height of a million miles, piercing the sky and the sea, connecting heaven and earth with a formidable presence.


    The Immortal-ying Four Swords!


    Though they were replicas, their power was astounding. Each sword alone had the strength of a top-tier great immortal artifact, and together, they rivaled even ancient immortal artifacts.


    Around the four swords, countless sword energies erupted, swirling around the des and enveloping the entire ind. The terrifying sword energy grew denser, shrouding Ghost Ind.


    The Immortal-ying Sword Formation was activated!


    "This is the Immortal-ying Sword Formation? How powerful!" Su Afu eximed.


    "Powerful? It''s just a replica!" Nine-Tailed Princess said jealously.


    "Even a replica is formidable. An ancient immortal artifact''s power! If I had one, who would I fear?" Su Afu said enviously.


    "The Immortal-ying Four Swords?" Zhong Shan murmured, a peculiar smile on his face.

 Chapter 874: The Causality That Even Saints Avoid

    <h4>Chapter 874: The Causality That Even Saints Avoid</h4>


    The massive Immortal-ying Sword Formation was deployed, with terrifying sword qi swirling through the sky, forcing countless nearby strong cultivators to retreat.


    The sky was filled with sword light, obscuring any view of the internal dynamics of the Immortal-ying Sword Formation. However, everyone knew that inside, a cataclysmic sh was urring.


    The Jade Void Kunlun Formation! The Immortal-ying Sword Formation! One was a formation left by the Primordial Saint, and the other by the Tongtian Saint. This was the first major sh between the formations of these two saints since their demise.


    "Retreat!" Zhong Shan instructed the Nine-Tailed Princess and the others.


    At this moment, attempting to snatch the Five-Colored Divine Stone seemed nearly impossible. Moreover, the collision between these two peerless formations appeared calm for now, but Zhong Shan believed that a violent upheaval was imminent.


    Nine-Tailed Princess and Su Afu, though puzzled, followed Zhong Shan''s lead and retreated.


    Even the Demon Chess Saint moved to stand by the Nine-Tailed Princess, seemingly to protect her specifically.


    The Taichu Saint King waved his hand, signaling the Taichu powerhouses to retreat as well. However, some reckless individuals, harboring a sliver of hope, moved closer to the Immortal-ying Sword Formation.


    "Boom!"


    A tremendous explosion erupted, sending infinite sword qi in all directions. The resulting impact caused the surrounding sea to explode into towering waves, instantly annihting those who had rushed forward.


    The Immortal-ying Sword Formation shattered. The internal space suddenly quivered, then gradually calmed.


    It was broken! The Immortal-ying Sword Formation was broken, and so was the Jade Void Kunlun Formation!


    In an instant, many onlookers felt their hopes rekindle, their eyes fervently fixed on Ghost Ind.


    They wanted to rush forward but knew it would be suicidal. Restraining themselves, they continued to scrutinize Ghost Ind.


    "Saint King, mission aplished!" Sima Qing, slightly fatigued, flew to the Taichu Saint King.


    "Good," the Taichu Saint King nodded.


    Then, everyone turned their attention to the entire ind.


    On the ind, nearly a thousand meny on the ground, coughing up blood.


    Officials of the Taiyi Sacred Court? They had set up the Jade Void Kunlun Formation?


    However, now that the formation was broken, they all suffered bacsh andy incapacitated.


    Few paid attention to these individuals; most were focused on the Five-Colored Divine Stone. Soon, everyone''s attention was drawn to a specific mountain.


    To be precise, it was a huge stone on the mountain.


    The mountain wasn''t very tall, around a thousand zhang, but its top was t, as if it had been sliced off. Dense ck qi surrounded it, resembling the ghostly marshes of the underworld.


    Atop this tformy a massive stone, colored in five hues, standing nine zhang, seven chi, and three cun high.


    "The Five-Colored Divine Stone?" someone shouted.


    In an instant, the entire Ghost Ind sea area erupted in excitement. The Five-Colored Divine Stone, it was truly the Five-Colored Divine Stone! It had been found.


    Many people''s eyes turned red with greed. Charge?


    Dozens of reckless individuals immediately rushed forward. Strangely, the Taichu Saint King and the Zixiao Sect Master did not stop them, allowing them to advance.


    Most people, their eyes fixed on the Five-Colored Divine Stone, didn''t notice that these dozens of individuals, as they flew towards the ind, encountered the surrounding ck qi before reaching the stone.


    As the first of them touched the ck qi, a horrific scene unfolded. The ck qi rapidly engulfed them, and they screamed as their bodies and souls were torn apart, disappearing without a trace.


    "Ah!"


    The moment they touched the ck qi, the crowd screamed in agony. Their bodies immediately began to fester, and before they could even attempt to escape, they copsed and dissolved into pools of blood.


    The horrific scene caused everyone''s hearts to race wildly.


    Several more groups attempted to fly towards the stone, but the oue was the same. Anyone who came into contact with the ck qi was instantly reduced to blood and gore, horrifying everyone.


    "What is this? So sinister?"


    "Going there means certain death? No wonder the Taichu Saint King and the Zixiao Sect Master aren''t going forward."


    "The Five-Colored Divine Stone? How can it be in this ck qi? The legends say the Five-Colored Divine Stone in the East Sea of the Eastern Continent radiated thousands of lights and absorbed the essence of heaven and earth. This is different!"


    "But it must be the Five-Colored Divine Stone; there''s no mistake!"


    "Then why is there such a big difference between the two?"


    As themotion around Ghost Ind intensified, on a small ind at the periphery of the Ghost Ind sea area, a figure stood with hands behind his back, with seven or eight subordinates standing behind him.


    "The time hase. Begin the Blood Sea and Starry Sky Soul Sacrifice!" the figuremanded with a wave of his hand.


    "Yes, sir!" the subordinates replied respectfully.


    In the distance, the Taichu Saint King and the Zixiao Sect Master finally moved. After witnessing the deaths of numerous powerful individuals under the ck qi, they decided to take action themselves.


    The deaths had been clear to everyone. Those who dared to harbor any hopes in front of the Taichu Saint King and the Zixiao Sect Master were not weak. There were Earth Immortals, Heavenly Immortals, and even a rogue Great Immortal. Yet, even the Great Immortal couldn''t withstand the ck qi. Just how strong was this ck qi?


    At this moment, everyone held their breath, watching as the Taichu Saint King and the Zixiao Sect Master stepped forward.


    But as they moved, a figure suddenly blocked their path.


    A man wearing an imperial robe adorned with nine dragons, his eyes like stars, exuding a wisdom that seemed to pierce through the world, stood before them.


    "Saint King Taichu, Sect Master Zixiao, please stop!" the neer called out.


    Both the Taichu Saint King and the Zixiao Sect Master halted, looking at the sudden arrival.


    "Saint King Taiyi, you finally show yourself," the Zixiao Sect Master said in a deep voice.


    Saint King Taiyi? Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed.


    "Taiyi Zhenren!" the Taichu Saint King bowed slightly.


    "Taiyi Zhenren?" Zhong Shan looked questioningly at the Demon Chess Saint.


    "Yes, Taiyi Zhenren, once one of the twelve disciples of the Primordial Saint. However, for unknown reasons, he was reincarnated and started anew. By then, the Primordial Saint was dead, so Taiyi no longer followed the path of umting virtue but instead sought fame and fortune, founding the Taiyi Sacred Court. Because of his great renown in his past life, he is still often called Taiyi Zhenren," the Demon Chess Saint exined to Zhong Shan.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "If it weren''t for the two of you trying to forcibly take the Five-Colored Divine Stone, I wouldn''t have stopped you. You should not continue," Saint King Taiyi said.


    "Why can''t we take it? Does this Five-Colored Divine Stone belong to you, Taiyi?" Cheng Baiyi said coldly.


    "Silence!" the Zixiao Sect Master snapped.


    "My apologies for theck of discipline," the Zixiao Sect Master quickly said to Saint King Taiyi.


    "Hehe," Saint King Taiyi shook his head.


    "Is it that the Five-Colored Divine Stone can''t be taken, or is it difficult to take?" the Taichu Saint King asked.


    "It cannot be taken," Saint King Taiyi replied.


    "Oh?"


    "My Taiyi Sacred Court has protected this treasure and never touched it. It''s not that we can''t take it; it''s that we mustn''t take it. In the past, more than one Saint came to the Ai Sea, yet none of them took the Five-Colored Divine Stone. Even if they didn''t need it, they could have given it to their disciples. Why did they ignore it?" Taiyi Saint King said.


    Everyone frowned. Indeed, the Saints had been here, so why didn''t they take it?


    "Please enlighten us," the Zixiao Sect Master said, puzzled.


    "Because this Five-Colored Divine Stone holds a great causality. This causality is so immense that even Saints do not want to get involved," Taiyi Saint King exined.


    Hearing this, almost everyone furrowed their brows deeply. A great causality? What kind of causality could even Saints avoid? The Zixiao Sect Master and the Taichu Saint King did not refute Taiyi''s words because they knew Taiyi''s background. Although the Taiyi Sacred Court wasn''t the strongest in the Fengzhong Domain, it had profound roots, having once followed a Saint.


    "What causality?" the Taichu Saint King asked.


    "Do you know about the Five-Colored Divine Stone in the East Sea of the Eastern Continent? The one on Flower Fruit Mountain? What was its purpose?" Taiyi Zhenren asked.


    "Did that Five-Colored Divine Stone also have a purpose?"


    "That Five-Colored Divine Stone once shattered and gave birth to a stone monkey. The stone monkeyter apprenticed under Patriarch Bodhi, who named him Sun Wukong and taught him extraordinary skills, leading him to be an ancient immortal. Patriarch Bodhi epted him because of his talent, but why did he expel him for minor mischief? Every disciple has a desire to show off their skills, especially Sun Wukong, who hadn''t faced much hardship. His bad temper could have been corrected gradually. Why sever the master-disciple rtionship after epting him?" Taiyi Saint King asked.


    "Indeed, I have heard of this, but I couldn''t see the connection. What does this have to do with Flower Fruit Mountain?"


    "When the stone monkey was born, his eyes pierced the heavens, startling the world. Many knew about this, but why did no one else take an interest in him? Patriarch Bodhi taught Sun Wukong in a short time, so were his earlier disciples truly beyond help?"


    The Taichu Saint King''s words left everyone even more confused.


    "Are you saying that Patriarch Bodhi didn''t take Sun Wukong as a disciple out of pure intentions but rather to teach him skills?" the Taichu Saint King asked.


    "Precisely."


    "But why?"


    "To repay a debt," Taiyi Saint King replied.


    "A debt? What debt?" everyone asked, puzzled.


    "A great debt for being freed from the seal under Flower Fruit Mountain when the stone monkey was born," Taiyi Saint King said with a deep breath.


    "Sealed? Patriarch Bodhi was sealed under Flower Fruit Mountain? Was it the Five-Colored Divine Stone that suppressed him?" everyone gasped.


    "The Five-Colored Divine Stone was part of the seal. When the stone monkey was born, the seal broke, and Patriarch Bodhi, grateful to the stone monkey, taught him skills. Yet he didn''t want to form asting bond, so he severed the master-disciple rtionship," Taiyi Saint King exined.


    At this point, almost everyone understood Taiyi Saint King''s implication.


    Was something suppressed under Ghost Ind as well? Was a powerful being sealed there? And this Five-Colored Divine Stone was nearly three times the size of the one that birthed the stone monkey. Who was sealed beneath this one?


    "Who is sealed here?" the Zixiao Sect Master asked, frowning.


    "When Flower Fruit Mountain was sealed, it was shrouded in mist and radiated brilliance, a paradise on earth. That was because it sealed Patriarch Bodhi. Here, you see the rampant evil energy, fierce aura, and surrounding gloom. You can imagine the nature of the being sealed here," Taiyi Saint King said.


    "Who is sealed beneath Ghost Ind?" the Zixiao Sect Master asked again, frowning.


    "Honestly, I don''t know. But you can see that none of the Saints wanted to get involved with this causality. Even my former master, the Primordial Saint, knew about this ce and did not want to get involved. He tasked me with guarding this ind, which is why the Taiyi Sacred Court has been protecting it," Taiyi Saint King said.


    "The Primordial Saint didn''t want to get involved?" everyone looked puzzled.


    What kind of monster was sealed below? Could it really carry such immense causality?

 Chapter 875: The Heaven-Defying Formation

    <h4>Chapter 875: The Heaven-Defying Formation</h4>


    "Even the Primordial Saint didn''t want to be involved? How is that possible? What could make a Saint afraid?" Cheng Baiyi questioned skeptically.


    Taiyi Saint King nced at Cheng Baiyi and shook his head. "Saints aren''t afraid; they simply choose not to get involved."


    "Isn''t that the same thing?" Cheng Baiyi retorted.


    Shaking his head, Taiyi Saint King exined, "It''s entirely different. Saints are the strongest beings in existence, but there are some things they prefer not to meddle with."


    "Who would believe that?" Cheng Baiyi scoffed.


    "Silence!" the Zixiao Sect Master reprimanded.


    Cheng Baiyi reluctantly fell silent.


    The Zixiao Sect Master and the Taichu Saint King continued to focus on Taiyi Saint King.


    "Do you believe it?" Taiyi Saint King asked with a faint smile.


    "I believe it," the Taichu Saint King nodded.


    "I believe it too. But I''d like to know when this Five-Colored Divine Stone appeared. Was it during the era of the Primordial Saint?" the Zixiao Sect Master inquired.


    "Yes, it was during the time of Hongjun, Nuwa, the Three Pure Ones, Jieyin, and Zhunti. The Shang Dynasty was also present. The Seven Saints had not yet begun their n to alter the heavens'' mandate. It''s hard to believe so much time has passed!" Taiyi Saint King reminisced.


    "Then why did Su Daji say that this was a treasured gift from Nuwa to Qingqiu? If it can''t be taken, why was it given as a great gift?" the Taichu Saint King asked.


    "Su Daji was favored by Nuwa. In the past, for the sake of King Zhou of Shang, she manipted the Seven Saints into a confrontation that led to the Investiture of the Gods. Originally, the Seven Saints were not supposed to interfere, but Su Daji provoked them, nearly causing the copse of their grand n. Although Hongjun Daozu''s calctions eventually mitigated the losses, Su Daji''s actions left the Saints uneasy. Ultimately, she was sentenced to death but was saved by Nuwa," Taiyi Saint King recounted.


    It was evident that Taiyi Zhenren had yed a crucial role in the Investiture of the Gods, having detailed knowledge of those events.


    "Su Daji? No wonder she was the top genius of the fox n back then!" the Zixiao Sect Master remarked.


    "Indeed. During the grand n of altering the heavens'' mandate, none of us knew the true purpose. We were all pawns of the Saints. Su Daji, however, managed to deduce their n simply by observing our actions, causing the Saints much distress. Her intellect rivaled that of the Saints!" Taiyi Saint King said.


    "You didn''t know the purpose of the Investiture of the Gods?" the Taichu Saint King asked, surprised.


    "Of course not. Those who knew couldn''t escape divine retribution, not even the Seven Saints. How could the disciples of the various sects? If I had known back then, I wouldn''t have just been reincarnated to cultivate anew," Taiyi Saint King shook his head.


    "So you mean to say that the appearance of this Five-Colored Divine Stone predates the grand n to alter the heavens'' mandate?" the Taichu Saint King frowned.


    "Correct," Taiyi Saint King confirmed.


    "Then who is sealed beneath it?" the Zixiao Sect Master asked.


    "I don''t know. The ferocious demon being suppressed was something the Primordial Saint was very wary of," Taiyi Saint King said.


    A silence fell over the group. The surrounding cultivators were also listening quietly, their hearts filled with mixed emotions, but unable to suppress the greed in their eyes.


    "Sect Master Zixiao, Saint King Taichu, I must ask you to leave. This object cannot be taken, even if Su Daji once spoke of it," Taiyi Saint King shook his head.


    Everyone looked at the massive Ghost Ind, their expressions heavy with seriousness. It couldn''t be taken? Who was sealed beneath it that even Saints wouldn''t dare involve themselves?


    The mystery of the Five-Colored Divine Stone deepened, leaving everyone in a state of contemtive silence, aware of the immense causality and danger thaty ahead.


    "The older they get, the more afraid they are of death!" Nine-Tailed Princess muttered beside Zhong Shan.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    "What''s there to fear? How can we not take such a treasure as the Five-Colored Divine Stone? A peerless fiend? So what if it is? If the sky falls, the taller ones will hold it up!" Nine-Tailed Princess scoffed.


    "What do you mean?" Su Afu asked, slightly surprised.


    "If a peerless fiendes out, the Saints will deal with it. Do you think the Saints will just ignore it? Besides, the fiend might not even cause destruction. Remember Patriarch Bodhi!" Nine-Tailed Princess exined.


    "Huh?"


    "After Patriarch Bodhi was released, he didn''t go on a rampage. Instead, he was grateful to the stone monkey and taught him powerful skills. The fiend sealed below might also be grateful to whoever frees it, possibly even bestowing countless ancient immortal artifacts upon them!" Nine-Tailed Princess whispered.


    Her whisper was rtively soft, but in the stillness, it reached the ears of many cultivators around.


    The originally fearful cultivators were instantly enticed by Nine-Tailed Princess''s words, their eyes lighting up with greed.


    The temptation was immense. The Five-Colored Divine Stone was one thing, but the promise of "countless ancient immortal artifacts"?


    Many people''s eyes gleamed green with avarice.


    Taiyi Saint King looked speechlessly at Nine-Tailed Princess. Despite his efforts to exin and caution, her few words had only excited the crowd further.


    "Blood, blood sea...!" A sudden shout came from a distance. Everyone turned to see that the sea, at some point, had turned blood-red, resembling a vast blood sea that was rapidly encroaching on Ghost Ind, assimting more of the ocean as it moved closer.


    "Woo woo woo...!" The sound of ghostly wails filled the air. Within the blood sea, the spirits of cultivators began to churn, their faces contorted in pain as they struggled but could not break free.


    "Those are the souls of the cultivators from the recent Ai Sea conflict! Someone collected their souls after they died!" someone shouted in realization.


    "Whoosh!"


    A massive wave surged from the blood sea, crashing down on the speaker.


    "Ahhh...!"


    With a scream, the person was dragged into the blood sea. In an instant, they seemed to be reduced to a pile of white bones, their death agonizingly horrific. The blood sea then absorbed their spirit, transforming them into one of its ghostly denizens.


    The terrifying blood sea surged forward, dragging dozens more into its depths, each met with the same gruesome fate, their souls converted into blood sea ghosts.


    "Whoosh!"


    Many cultivators took to the skies, their eyes filled with terror. The blood sea was unimaginably horrifying.


    "The sky is falling...!"


    Those who had flown up were horrified to see the stars above plummeting towards the earth at a terrifying speed.


    "Run...!"


    Seventy to eighty million cultivators, terrified by the scene, turned and fled, desperate to leave the area as quickly as possible. While the allure of the treasure had initially gripped their hearts, the instinct for survival now overpowered any sense of greed, driving them to escape the impending doom.


    But could they truly escape?


    The Taichu Saint King, the Taiyi Saint King, and the Zixiao Sect Master remained unmoved, simply observing the surroundings with eyes full of suspicion and curiosity.


    "What is this formation? It''s so vast, covering the sky and blocking out the sun!" the Zixiao Sect Master frowned.


    "Every direction is sealed. It seems stronger than the Jade Void Kunlun Formation and even more powerful than Sima Qing''s Immortal-ying Sword Formation," the Taichu Saint King said in surprise.


    "Blood Sea and Starry Sky Soul Sacrifice? How is this possible? How could such an ancient formation exist?" Taiyi Saint King eximed in shock.


    "Taiyi Zhenren, do you recognize this formation?" the Taichu Saint King asked in surprise.


    "To break a seal with a formation... Someone wants to break the seal!" Taiyi frowned.


    "Break the seal?"


    "Not just break the seal, but also nurture a demon, using the souls of a billion cultivators to strengthen the sealed fiend. It''s madness! Who would do such a thing?" Taiyi Saint King said, horrified.


    "Taiyi Zhenren, what exactly is this formation?" the Taichu Saint King asked, frowning.


    "It''s a feng shui formation that greatly disrupts the natural order. In the past, Hongjun Daozu personally destroyed all records of this formation, erasing the memories of those who knew it. How has it resurfaced?" Taiyi Saint King wondered, frowning deeply.


    "Hongjun Daozu eradicated it? How do you know?"


    "Hongjun Daozu destroyed seventy-two formations, techniques, and artifacts that severely disrupted the natural order. The Primordial Saint mentioned this formation to us back then," Taiyi Saint King said, his eyes filled with disbelief.


    "Hongjun Daozu must have missed something," the Zixiao Sect Master said, frowning.


    "How could that be? Hongjun Daozu said it was destroyed. How could he have missed something?"


    "So what do we do now?"


    "How should I know!" Taiyi Saint King responded, irritated.


    "How can we break this formation?"


    "There''s no way to break it unless a Saint intervenes. Otherwise, it can''t be broken. Why else would Hongjun Daozu have been so concerned about it? Unless the person who set it up dismantles it themselves, it can''t be broken. We must be cautious!" Taiyi Saint King shook his head.


    "All ministers of Taichu, protect yourselves as best as you can. Your lives are in your own hands!" the Taichu Saint King immediately ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    This statement underscored the severity of the situation. Was the peerless fiend about to be released?


    On a distant ind beyond the blood sea, a figure stood with his hands behind his back, observing the blood-red sky.


    "Sir, a thousand heavenly immortals have sacrificed their lives to activate the formation. It is now fully operational!" a subordinate reported.


    "Good," the figure nodded.


    "Sir, will such arge blood curtain attract powerful beings to break it?" the subordinate asked, worried.


    "Break it? This formation was created by the God Emperor himself. Who can break it? Unless a Saint intervenes, which is impossible," the figure said confidently.


    "The might of the God Emperor!" the subordinate said with admiration.


    "Continue as I instructed. Once the energy of a billion souls pours into the seal, not even the Five-Colored Divine Stone can stop our lord. Our mission in the Ai Sea will beplete," the figure said with a sigh of satisfaction.


    "Yes, sir!"

 Chapter 876: Devouring the Five-Colored Divine Stone

    <h4>Chapter 876: Devouring the Five-Colored Divine Stone</h4>


    Within the Blood Sea Soul Sacrifice Formation in the starry sky.


    The vast ocean was instantly engulfed by a crimson hue, transforming into a sea of blood with waves surging violently, roaring incessantly. Countless souls of fallen cultivators struggled painfully within the blood sea.


    Cultivators attempting to flee through the sky fell one after another. As soon as they entered the blood sea, their bodies were reduced to nothing, bing tormented souls. Their pain was unending.


    Screams echoed from all directions, filled with panic, as if no matter how they tried to escape, they found themselves back where they started, flying in circles.


    "It''s a spatial formation!" a perceptive cultivator shouted in horror. "A spatial formation? Distorted space? What kind of formation is this? How can we escape?"


    But the most terrifying aspect wasn''t even the formation itself. It was the sky.


    The Holy King of the Primordial Era, the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect, the Holy King of Great Unity, and Zhong Shan all watched the sky with grave expressions.


    The sky was copsing. Truly copsing.


    Endless stars fell like a dense meteor shower, crashing down relentlessly.


    The terrifying stars plummeted into the blood sea, causing massive waves to surge.


    "Boom!"


    The impact of the stars was incredibly fearsome. Countless cultivators were unable to withstand the collision, their bodies smashed into the blood sea by the immense force.


    There was no resistance. The stars were immensely heavy and gigantic, falling continuously, reminiscent of the Heavenly Court of Da Ren in the past, where one Heavenly Court after another descended, each impact profoundly shocking.


    Of course, many could handle the stars, but what about the ck holes in the starry sky?


    A terrifying ck hole descended with the stars, its dreadful suction tearing cultivators apart, yet strangely preserving their souls, which fell into the blood sea.


    It was as if the falling stars and ck holes were all designed to serve the blood sea.


    A sinister formation, a terrifying formation.


    In an instant, the starry sky became chaotic. The spatial factors within the formation caused everyone to lose sight of each other. At most, they could only see those nearby.


    At this moment, a gigantic star suddenly crashed toward Zhong Shan and his group.


    With a fierce re, the Chess Sage Chimei thrust out a palm.


    "Boom!"


    The star was deflected, crashing into the blood sea.


    "Such a heavy star, it feels so real. Could this be an actual star?" Chess Sage Chimei eximed in surprise.


    "What should we do?" Princess Nine-Tails asked anxiously.


    "Don''t worry, Princess. I won''t let anything happen to you," Chess Sage Chimei quickly reassured her.


    As an elder of the fox n, Chess Sage Chimei naturally understood Princess Nine-Tails'' importance to the n.


    "And me, Chess Sage Chimei, you have to protect me too!" Su Afo moved closer to Chess Sage Chimei, eyes filled with worry.


    Su Afo had just witnessed several celestial beings in the distance fall into the blood sea with no resistance. The formation here was too sinister.


    "Boom!"


    In the distance, the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect shattered a multitude of falling stars with a strike of heavenly lightning.


    "Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect, save some energy to deal with the emergence of the fierce demon. The stars here are endless. When a star falls into the blood sea, it cycles back to the sky and falls again," the Holy King of Great Unity shook his head and said.


    The Purple Heaven Sect Master nodded, guiding Cheng Baiyi to slowly evade. Suddenly, the surroundings changed, making it impossible to see beyond a hundred feet. The internal space became chaotic for a moment, causing everyone except the peerless experts to lose their sense of direction, unable to distinguish between heaven and earth.


    Everyone was too stunned to move more than a small distance.


    Princess Nine-Tails and her group suddenly found their surroundings reversed, with the blood sea in the sky and stars shooting upward from below. They knew it was due to the formation, the reversal of heaven and earth making the environment increasingly hostile and harder to withstand.


    In this disordered space, no one dared to use their "world" power. Those who did died even faster, as the chaotic spatial elements could easily drag them into the blood sea, leading to their demise.


    As Zhong Shan, Princess Nine-Tails, the Chess Sage Chimei, and Su Afo stood vignt.


    "Boom!"


    A massive ck hole suddenly appeared beside the four of them. The ck hole arrived too quickly, seemingly out of nowhere, with a terrifying suction force that threatened to pull everyone in.


    The Chess Sage Chimei waved hisrge sleeve, creating a powerful force that pulled the group backward swiftly.


    However, Zhong Shan was perhaps too close to the ck hole to be pulled away.


    "Zhong Shan!" Princess Nine-Tails screamed.


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhong Shan was already sucked into the ck hole.


    The moment he entered the ck hole, Zhong Shan did not panic but instead revealed a faint smile. With a thought, he unleashed his Divine Realm.


    Unlike most cultivators whose "world" is a manifestation of their rules andws anchored to the heavens and earth, Zhong Shan''s Divine Realm, although temporarily anchored to the world, could absorb and replicate thews and rules. This absorption and replication made it increasingly powerful.


    As soon as the Divine Realm appeared, the Eye of Heaven''s Punishment opened, its pupil shrinking with a hint of joy. The entire Divine Realm suddenly shook as it rapidly absorbed thews of the ck hole. Despite the intense impact, it remained within the Divine Realm''s capacity.


    After an incense stick''s worth of time, the pressure from the ck hole seemed to increase. Seeing that the Divine Realm was about to be overwhelmed, Zhong Shan waved his hand, and the Emperor''s Diagram appeared.


    As the ck hole''sws impacted the Emperor''s Diagram, it absorbed and then rebounded them. With a strong surge, the ck hole dissipated.


    The Divine Realm quickly recovered under the Eye of Heaven''s Punishment''s guidance, but now, numerous ck holes had appeared out of nowhere in its sky.


    Putting away the Divine Realm, Zhong Shan looked around. Princess Nine-Tails and the others were nowhere to be seen, and the star impact from above continued.


    Storing the Emperor''s Diagram, Zhong Shan closed his eyes to sense his surroundings. He contemted his path and headed in the direction where the Red Luan Pink Lotus suddenly turned red.


    Auspicious!


    Auspicious? Zhong Shan understood what this auspicious omen meant. It was why he had deliberately separated from Chess Sage Chimei and the others.


    Following the direction indicated by the Red Luan Pink Lotus, Zhong Shan flew steadily. Along the way, he avoided danger with ease, maneuvering through the meteor shower as if it was a stroll in the park. It was as if this meteor shower formation was set by Zhong Shan himself, allowing him to navigate effortlessly.


    Even the chaotic spatial factors couldn''t hinder Zhong Shan.


    As Zhong Shan flew, he suddenly came to a stop.


    A nine-zhang-tall Five-Colored Divine Stone?


    Around the Five-Colored Divine Stone, the ck aura was even denser. At this moment, cracks appeared all over Ghost Ind, with thick ck gas gushing out, as if a peerless demon was about to break free.


    "Zhong Shan, is that you?" A voice of astonishment came from behind.


    Zhong Shan didn''t need to turn around to know it was Sima Qing. Sima Qing had the same idea as Zhong Shan?


    Zhong Shan''s right palm suddenly turned silver. He turned and struck out with his palm.


    At the same time, Sima Qing also swung his sword, the Pseudo-Zhuxian Sword!


    Heaven-Splitting Palm vs. Pseudo-Zhuxian Sword!


    "Boom!"


    A massive explosion sent a powerful shockwave rippling out.


    Sima Qing''s Zhuxian Sword was repelled, his eyes filled with shock. How could Zhong Shan''s palm withstand the Pseudo-Zhuxian Sword?


    The intense sh seemed to draw attention to their location, causing numerous ck holes to descend from the sky.


    Sima Qing wanted to continue the fight, but Zhong Shan had already disappeared.


    Zhong Shan was gone, and so was the nine-zhang-tall Five-Colored Divine Stone.


    "Damn it!"


    Dodging the ck holes, Sima Qing''s face was grim.


    Zhong Shan had evaded Sima Qing. Fighting at this time was unwise, especially since Ghost Ind appeared to be a massive seal about to be broken. It was best to keep a distance.


    The Five-Colored Divine Stone! Such a treasure was not easy to obtain. Zhong Shan realized it the moment he saw it. Although it was ced there, it was bound by countlessws, seemingly fixed in that space. It couldn''t be taken.


    But Zhong Shan had a demonic ability. With a single bite from his Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail, it seemed to swallow that space entirely. With a quick retreat, Zhong Shan escaped.


    The Five-Colored Divine Stone, such a heavenly treasure, had the strength of an ancient celestial artifact. Using it to create an external avatar? Zhong Shan had no interest. If his main body died, what use was an external avatar? It was better to enhance his main body''s strength.


    Finding a secluded area, Zhong Shan''s Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail quickly digested it.


    If other cultivators knew that the Five-Colored Divine Stone they had fought so hard for was casually eaten by Zhong Shan, they would be spitting blood in frustration.


    The terrifying energy was absorbed by the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail, and even the overflow was enough for Zhong Shan to handle, rapidly increasing his cultivation.


    Celestial Immortal Sixth Heaven!


    Celestial Immortal Seventh Heaven!


    It only stopped at the peak of Celestial Immortal Seventh Heaven. Zhong Shan let out a long breath. It felt amazing. Celestial Immortal Seventh Heaven? If only there were more Five-Colored Divine Stones to eat.


    Of course, only Zhong Shan would feel satisfied. Such a vast amount of energy, upgrading only two levels, would leave many cultivators heartbroken.


    The struggling souls in the blood sea gradually disappeared, as if they had been drawn into the seal.


    On Ghost Ind, ck gas surged into the sky, with faint red shes appearing within it, an ancient aura spreading in all directions.


    "It''sing out. The peerless demon is about to break the seal!" The Purple Heaven Sect Master said solemnly.


    "It shouldn''t be so fast. The Five-Colored Divine Stone seal shouldn''t break so quickly. It should havested at least another day. Why is this happening?" The Holy King of Great Unity frowned.

 Chapter 877: The Ghost Carriage

    <h4>Chapter 877: The Ghost Carriage</h4>


    "It shouldn''t be so fast. The seal of the Five-Colored Divine Stone shouldn''t break this quickly. It should havested at least another day. Why is this happening?" The Holy King of Great Unity frowned.


    Although the Holy King was surprised, he remained cautious.


    "Boom!"


    From the direction of Ghost Ind, a tremendous explosion sent a colossal force skyward, scattering the meteor shower as if it had been blown away. The vast blood sea, seeminglyposed of endless blood, was being absorbed by the demon inside the seal, converging rapidly.


    A terrifying aura of malevolence radiated in all directions, causing the remaining experts to tremble. It felt like a wrathful heavenly force, utterly terrifying.


    Standing at a distance, Zhong Shan watched Ghost Ind with a mixture of suspicion and astonishment.


    Such a powerful aura! Such an evil aura.


    No, it should be described as a ''ferocious'' aura. Feeling this aura, Zhong Shan had a sense that it was very simr to the ferocity in his own eyes of fortune and misfortune.


    It seemed like an innate omen of disaster, or perhaps, the powerful entity inside could bring cmity to others.


    What kind of monster was this?


    A sharp cry suddenly echoed from within the seal, not like a phoenix''s cry but extremely unpleasant. This single cry seemed to prate the outside world.


    The sky suddenly returned to its original state, revealing the distant sea view once more. The formation had been lifted?


    With the formation gone, only a few million cultivators remained, just one-tenth of the original number. The survivors felt a sense of overwhelming relief.


    Most turned and fled in all directions, their minds heavily shadowed by fear.


    However, a small number of cultivators stayed behind, determined to see the end, at least to prevent their mental shadows from growing further.


    Ghost Ind disappeared in the distance, leaving only a dense ck hole. The surrounding seawater seemed to deliberately avoid it, not daring to approach.


    After the cry above the ck hole, a hundred-zhang-tall ck object slowly rose, appearing extremely sinister. The object was shrouded in ck gas, and just a nce at it made one''s heart pound with fear.


    "Whoosh!"


    As the demon inside emerged further, everyone realized that the previously hundred-zhang-tall object was a crown, arge crown resembling a phoenix crown.


    A ck, ugly bird head appeared, its eyes wide open, emitting a dazzling blue light that shot straight into everyone''s hearts, causing great difort.


    Was this the demon?


    With another sharp cry, more heads identical to the first emerged from the seal. Each head had a smaller crown.


    But each head''s eyes glowed with the same chilling blue light.


    There were nine ck heads, no, ten, but the tenth head was missing, as if it had been severed, covered in bloody flesh with dark red blood seemingly ready to drip.


    The demon with one less head had only nine bird heads.


    Yet these nine bird heads alone exuded a formidable threat that Zhong Shan could clearly perceive.


    The Red Luan Pink Lotus had turned blue, signaling extreme danger. Zhong Shan retreated further, intending to leave the area.


    "Yin����������������������������������������������������!"


    The nine heads of the demon simultaneously let out a long, piercing cry. The sky darkened, and the vast sea above was shrouded in ck gas, an omen of great cmity that struck fear into everyone''s hearts.


    With that cry, the demon spread its wings and soared into the sky. It looked like a giant bird but had eighteen wings, its body a dark red with two long tail feathers, exuding extreme ferocity.


    "Yin����������������������������������������������������!"


    As the cry reverberated, it felt as if a world of darkness had descended, covering the sky and causing a chill in everyone.


    The giant bird looked coldly down at those below, as if they were mere ants.


    Suddenly, the bird''s gaze locked onto the Holy King of Great Unity.


    A powerful wave of malice surged forward.


    "Boom!"


    A massive shield suddenly enveloped the Holy King of Great Unity. The shield had nine rib bones, each with a fire dragon coiled around it.


    Zhong Shan recognized it as the Nine-Dragon Divine Fire Shield, a treasure of the Supreme Celestial from his past life, gifted by the Primordial Saint.


    The mighty shield protected the Holy King of Great Unity, with raging mes circling its exterior. Outside the Nine-Dragon Divine Fire Shield, ck gas continued to surge, and the bird seemed enraged, as if knowing the Holy King had guarded the Five-Colored Divine Stone for years.


    "It''s it, it''s it!" The Holy King''s lips trembled, his eyes filled with terror.


    "The fierce bird? Nine Phoenixes?" The Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect looked at the bird with panic.


    "It shouldn''t be Nine Phoenixes!" The Holy King of the Primordial Era quickly denied it.


    "Not Nine Phoenixes?"


    "Although it looks like Nine Phoenixes, haven''t you noticed it has ten necks? Only nine heads, and none of the Nine Phoenixes I''ve seen carried such overwhelming malice!" The Holy King of the Primordial Era shook his head.


    "A saint''s treasure? The Primordial Saint''s treasure?" The bird suddenly spoke, its voice filled with fierce anger.


    "You have broken free, the Primordial Saint is dead. What do you intend to do?" The Holy King of Great Unity, now devoid of his usual strength, stared in horror.


    At that moment, a drop of dark red blood suddenly dripped from the bird''s severed neck toward the Nine-Dragon Divine Fire Shield.


    Seeing the blood drop approaching, the Holy King''s face changed dramatically. The divine fire of the shield red up, but it couldn''t evaporate the drop of blood. Instead, the blood seemed to move even faster, prating the shield andnding on the Holy King.


    The Holy King looked at the bird in terror. Anger shed in his eyes, but for some reason, he held back his rage.


    He quickly put away the Nine-Dragon Divine Fire Shield and stomped the ground. A massive altar suddenly manifested in the void. It was the Heaven and Earth Altar, a representation of his cosmic domain.


    As the Heaven and Earth Altar appeared, the sky above it cleared up.


    The Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect and the Holy King of the Primordial Era also quickly summoned their Heaven and Earth Altars, making the three altars stand out starkly in the void.


    The bird stared at the Heaven and Earth Altars, its blue eyes glowing brightly.


    In the meantime, arge group of people quickly flew in from the distance, led by none other than the Human Sovereign.


    "ng����������������������������������������������������!"


    A deafening chime rang out from the Chaos Bell above the Human Sovereign''s head.


    Hearing the chime of the Chaos Bell, the monstrous bird turned its heads toward Ren Zun.


    "Ren Zun, paying respects to Lord Ghost Carriage!" Ren Zun said.


    "Paying respects to Lord Ghost Carriage!" Ren Zun''s followers echoed in unison, their tones filled with humility.


    Staring at Ren Zun, the bird, Ghost Carriage, scrutinized him deeply.


    "Lord Ghost Carriage, these people hold the ''Life Position'' in the cosmic domain. It''s best to set aside past grudges for now," Ren Zun advised.


    "What are you? Do I need you to tell me what to do?" Ghost Carriage''s eyes shed coldly.


    Ren Zun remained unfazed, replying calmly, "I released you."


    "So what? Do you think you canmand me?" Ghost Carriage replied icily.


    "It''s not me ordering you. It''s themand of the Divine Emperor. After your release, you are not to cause trouble and must follow my arrangements," Ren Zun said sternly.


    "The Divine Emperor?" Ghost Carriage retorted coldly.


    Ren Zun waved his hand, sending the Chaos Bell toward Ghost Carriage.


    Ghost Carriage caught the bell with one w. Suddenly, a wave of energy flowed from the Chaos Bell into Ghost Carriage.


    Ghost Carriage''s eighteen eyes closed briefly, then reopened. He tossed the Chaos Bell back to Ren Zun.


    Taking a deep breath, Ghost Carriage red fiercely at the Holy King of Great Unity once more.


    "It''s time to leave. If we dy, a saint might arrive," Ren Zun said.


    "Yin����������������������������������������������������!"


    Ghost Carriage let out a long, piercing cry. Arge, dark hole appeared in the void before him, its interior pitch ck.


    "Enter!" Ren Zunmanded his followers.


    "Yes!"


    All of Ren Zun''s followers quickly rushed into the dark hole.


    "Lord Ghost Carriage, I''ll go first!" Ren Zun said, stepping into the hole.


    As he entered the darkness, Ren Zun nced back deeply in Zhong Shan''s direction.


    Only after Ren Zun had entered did Ghost Carriage spread his wings and fly into the hole. At the moment of entry, Zhong Shan saw Ghost Carriage cast a nce at him.


    Once Ghost Carriage entered the void, the dark hole slowly disappeared.


    "Whew!" Princess Nine-Tails let out a long breath of relief from a distance.


    "That was terrifying. I couldn''t even speak!" Su Afo eximed.


    "The pressure was immense!" Princess Nine-Tails nodded.


    "Zhong Shan, you''re alive?" Princess Nine-Tails noticed Zhong Shan and smiled with joy.


    A group of people flew towards Zhong Shan.


    "Poof!"


    Not far away, the Holy King of Great Unity suddenly spat out a mouthful of blood, his face turning extremely pale.


    "Holy King of Great Unity, are you injured?" the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect asked, frowning.


    To others, it seemed that Ghost Carriage hadn''t inflicted any substantial damage on the Holy King of Great Unity, only a single drop of its own blood.


    "That is the blood of great misfortune. Ghost Carriage''s blood brings misfortune, bad luck, and ominous signs," the Holy King of the Primordial Era exined.


    "Ghost Carriage''s blood? Ghost Carriage? Who is he?" the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect asked, frowning.


    "An ancient ferocious beast, the ancestor of the Nine Phoenixes. It''s best not to provoke him! Now I understand, the saints aren''t afraid of him, they just don''t want to provoke him," the Holy King of the Primordial Era said with deep emotion.


    "Farewell, everyone!" the Holy King of Great Unity said.


    With that, his figure flickered and disappeared, not daring to linger any longer.


    The Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect watched the departing Holy King of Great Unity intently.

 Chapter 878: The Sage Descends

    <h4>Chapter 878: The Sage Descends</h4>


    The Holy King of Great Unity had left, and the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect watched him intently.


    "The Holy King of Great Unity, truly a cunning old fox, fleeing so quickly!" the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect said in a deep voice.


    "Huh?" Chess Sage Chimei raised an eyebrow.


    "I wasn''t talking about you!" the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect said, slightly exasperated.


    "Master, didn''t the Holy King of Great Unity leave because he was shrouded in bad omens? What did you mean by your previous words?" Cheng Baiyi asked in confusion.


    "You''ll understand soon enough!" the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect shook his head, not exining further.


    Turning around, the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect surveyed the other people.


    At this moment, Sima Qing, standing behind the Holy King of the Primordial Era, was ring coldly at Zhong Shan. He had seen Zhong Shan take the Five-Colored Divine Stone but couldn''t speak of it now, only feeling extremely puzzled.


    The Five-Colored Divine Stone, such a precious treasure, where had Zhong Shan hidden it? In a storage space? Impossible, it couldn''t be stored there. So why couldn''t his divine sense detect it?


    After surveying the crowd, the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect''s gaze returned to Zhong Shan.


    The moment he saw Zhong Shan, the Leader''s pupils contracted, and his face twitched slightly.


    Although this change was subtle, it caught the attention of many, causing a significant number of the tens of thousands of spectators to turn and look at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    "Congrattions, Zhong Shan! How long has it been? Your cultivation has broken through again?" The Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect said with great conflict.


    Chess Sage Chimei looked at Zhong Shan, his face showing a trace of oddity.


    Celestial Immortal Seventh Heaven? Before the emergence of Ghost Carriage, wasn''t Zhong Shan at Celestial Immortal Fifth Heaven? How had he suddenly reached Celestial Immortal Seventh Heaven? He''s a prodigy!


    Everyone knew that cultivation became increasingly difficult the further one progressed, with each stage blocking countless practitioners. Zhong Shan''s progress, with his seemingly mediocre roots, was unprecedented. It wasn''t just about bing an immortal; even stepping onto the path of cultivation had been extremely challenging for him. Yet his cultivation had increased so quickly!


    It was too unreasonable! No wonder the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect was so conflicted.


    The Holy King of the Primordial Era also looked at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s rapid increase in cultivation shocked everyone.


    "The Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect wouldn''t kill a Celestial Immortal just because of this, would he?" Zhong Shan asked with a faint smile.


    Zhong Shan''s words were blunt, extremely blunt. Yet this bluntness strangely silenced the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect. He had indeed considered eliminating Zhong Shan at the budding stage. After all, Zhong Shan was different from others; although hecked strength, he held a significant position. If it were an ordinary cultivator, the Leader wouldn''t care, but Zhong Shan was a Holy King.


    The concept of a Holy King was extraordinary. It forced the Leader to ponder deeply.


    Kill? After Zhong Shan''s blunt statement, Chess Sage Chimei frowned slightly, while the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect''s expression subtly changed.


    "Perhaps it''s possible," the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect said with a smile.


    This statement could be a joke or a fact, ambiguous but cautionary.


    "Woo-woo����������������������������������������������������!"


    Suddenly, the sound of ghostly wailing filled the air. The tens of thousands of spectators who had been about to leave stopped in their tracks, looking in astonishment at the center of the ck gas.


    It was the seal of Ghost Carriage, from which came the eerie sounds of ghostly wails and divine howls, extremely grating to the ears.


    Was there something else in the seal?


    "Is there another monstrous bird below?" Princess Nine-Tails eximed in surprise.


    "Bang!"


    A grotesque creature suddenly leaped out from the seal. Zhong Shan''s eyebrows raised in recognition.


    A Heaven Ghost!


    This creature, once created by Corpse Master using countless ghosts condensed from immortal corpses, still existed beneath the seal?


    The Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect also focused intently on the emerging Heaven Ghost. He extended a finger, and a beam of purple light shot towards the Heaven Ghost.


    "Bang!" The Heaven Ghost was instantly pierced by the purple light and dissipated into smoke.


    Yet, the sounds of ghostly wails and divine howls continued, as if many more of these creatures were waiting within the seal.


    "Chess Sage Chimei, what are those things?" Su Afo asked in confusion.


    "They are likely spirits and monsters condensed from evil energy, malevolent energy, and ghostly qi. Ghost Carriage''s ythings," Chess Sage Chimei exined.


    "I want to take a look!" Princess Nine-Tails said excitedly.


    Being at the Grand Immortal level, Princess Nine-Tails was confident that these spirits wouldn''t be able to harm her, hence her curiosity.


    "No!" Chess Sage Chimei quickly stopped her.


    "Why not?"


    "Someone else ising. We should wait," Chess Sage Chimei shook his head.


    "Someone else? Who?" Princess Nine-Tails asked in surprise.


    "Boom����������������������������������������������������!"


    At that moment, the clouds above suddenly cleared, revealing an infinitely clear sky. A massive pir of white light descended from the heavens, shining brilliantly as if reaching the stars. The light enveloped one of the spectators.


    Zhong Shan had noticed this group earlier; most of them had the cultivation level of Earth Immortals. The white light directly enveloped one individual among them, sending out a powerful aura that scattered the surrounding Earth Immortals.


    That area became incredibly spacious as the white light slowly disappeared, revealing a gray figure.


    Chapter 53: Zhuangzi''s Sword Debate


    With the departure of the first Sage''s divine sense, the other two Sages exchanged nces, ignoring the ''ants'' around them. They nodded at each other, their bodies emitting white light as they soared into the sky.


    The two individuals whose bodies had been upied by the Sages fell into the sea below.


    All the Sages left, except for Zhuang Zhou, who remained.


    Zhuang Zhou turned away from the seal, scanning the surroundings.


    "Master of Qingqiu, Taichu pays respect to Elder Zhuangzi!" the Holy King of the Primordial Era bowed slightly to Zhuang Zhou.


    This bow was peculiar; traditionally, a Holy King only bowed to Heaven, Earth, and Sages, yet he bowed to Zhuang Zhou, who was not a Sage.


    "Qingqiu?" Zhuangzi nodded in acknowledgment.


    Zhuangzi did not put on airs, returning a slight bow as a sign of respect for Qingqiu.


    Zhong Shan observed the two curiously.


    "Actually, Zhuangzi has deep ties with Qingqiu, which is why we hoped he would be a Sage. Unfortunately..." Princess Nine-Tails whispered to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nodded in understanding.


    "Was this conflict over Lady N��wa''s relic?" Zhuangzi asked calmly.


    "Yes, unfortunately, the Five-Colored Divine Stone is missing," the Holy King of the Primordial Era replied.


    Zhuangzi shook his head and said, "Daji''s schemes are boundless, but she shouldn''t have done this. Whether the Five-Colored Divine Stone is found or not, it makes no difference. Why cling to it? Drawing so much attention was unnecessary, though at least no major disaster urred."


    "But...?" The Holy King of the Primordial Era asked, puzzled.


    "Don''t bother searching for the Five-Colored Divine Stone. Announce to the world that I have taken it," Zhuangzi said calmly.


    Huh? Zhong Shan, standing at a distance, was slightly taken aback. When did Zhuangzi take the Five-Colored Divine Stone? It was clearly swallowed by the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail. What is Zhuangzi doing? Is he covering for me? No, Zhuangzi iming the Five-Colored Divine Stone''s whereabouts is to quickly dispel the powerful figures of the Ao Lai Sea.


    But why? Why is Zhuangzi doing this?


    Looking at Zhuangzi, the Holy King of the Primordial Era nodded and said, "Understood."


    "Good."


    "Elder, who is the new Sage this time?" the Holy King of the Primordial Era asked.


    After the question, nearly everyone turned their attention to Zhuangzi. Yes, who became the new Sage? Many had spected it would be Zhuangzi, as he was reputed to be the closest to bing a Sage. So why wasn''t it him?


    "The new Sage? He is not a new Sage," Zhuangzi shook his head.


    Perhaps Zhuangzi''s rtionship with Qingqiu was indeed deep, as he conversed with the Holy King of the Primordial Era like old friends.


    "Oh? Not a new Sage?"


    Everyone was bewildered. If the newly emerged Sage wasn''t a new Sage, what was he?


    "He is the ''Mithra Sage''," Zhuangzi stated solemnly.


    "Mithra Sage? It''s him? He became a Sage again?" the Holy King of the Primordial Era eximed in surprise.


    Countless powerful figures around revealed looks of astonishment. Mithra Sage?


    "Mithra?" Zhong Shan looked at Chess Sage Chimei with a slight frown.


    Chess Sage Chimei, perceiving Zhong Shan''s confusion, quickly exined, "Among the world''s Sages, there are nine in the yang and six in the yin. In the past, seven of the nine great Sages in the yang, including Hongjun Daozu, perished. However, two Sages did not fall. Though they escaped divine retribution, they were implicated and lost their Sagehood."


    "Two Sages? Hongjun and the others disturbed the heavenly order, but these two Sages had no part in it from the beginning to the end?" Zhong Shan asked with a frown.


    "Correct. Perhaps they foresaw it. From the beginning of the Great Shang''s apotheosis, they withdrew from the world. It is said that these two Sages hid in a small thousand-world, waiting until after the divine retribution passed," Chess Sage Chimei exined.


    They hid in a small thousand-world? Zhong Shan felt it was a strange coincidence. Wasn''t there a rumor in his former small thousand-world that two Sages had once entered and dueled, leaving behind their teachings to repay the world? One was the "Heavenly Demon Body Refinement," and the other was the "Heavenly Secrets Diagram" given to him by Ying.


    Could it be him? Zhong Shan was astonished.


    Mithra Sage?


    Zhuangzi nodded to the Holy King of the Primordial Era.


    "The world is about to undergo another major change?" the Holy King of the Primordial Era wondered.


    "A major change? When has the world ever not been in flux? It''s always changing! However, you should worry about Qingqiu. It is no longer what it once was. If Qingqiu does not regain its strength, it will inevitably be erased in the face of the world''s turmoil," Zhuangzi said calmly.


    "Thank you for your guidance, Elder. Taking this opportunity, I would like you to examine this Heavenly Son Sword," the Holy King of the Primordial Era said.


    As he spoke, the Holy King of the Primordial Era took out a bright silver longsword, handing it to Zhuangzi with great reverence.


    Zhuangzi gave the Holy King a deep look and finally smiled faintly, saying, "I haven''t examined a Heavenly Son Sword in a long time. For the sake of Lady N��wa and the ancestors of Qingqiu, I will take a look for you."


    "Thank you, Elder!"


    Zhuangzi took the Holy King''s sword, holding it gently, and closed his eyes slightly, as if deeply sensing the essence of the sword.


    "Examining a sword? What does that mean?" Zhong Shan asked Chess Sage Chimei curiously.


    Examining a sword? Was Zhuangzi checking the quality of the Holy King''s sword? That couldn''t be it, could it? What was so special about it?


    Chess Sage Chimei gave Zhuangzi a deep look and then turned to Zhong Shan, saying, "Holy King Zhong may not be aware, but Zhuangzi is not merely examining the sword; he is ''seeing'' the Holy King and the entire Primordial Heavenly Court."


    "Oh? How so?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Zhuangzi has a unique method of perception, dividing swords into three types: the Heavenly Son Sword, the Vassal Sword, and the Commoner''s Sword."


    "The Heavenly Son Sword? The Vassal Sword? The Commoner''s Sword?" Su Afo echoed, confused.


    "The Heavenly Son Sword, with the world as its de, encased by the four barbarians, wrapped in the four seasons, forged by the five elements, governed byws and virtues, opened by yin and yang. This sword moves forward without obstruction, rises without limit, descends without bounds, and sweeps without hindrance. It cuts through the clouds above, severs the earth''s veins below. When unsheathed, it rectifies vassals,mands the four seas, and wins the hearts of all."


    "The Vassal Sword, with wise and brave men as its edge, honest men as its bluntness, virtuous men as its back, loyal and holy men as its tip, and heroes as its hilt. This sword moves forward without showing its edge, rises without showing its height, descends without showing its depth, and sweeps without showing its width. It emtes the round heaven above, follows the three lights; emtes the square earth below, follows the four seasons; harmonizes the people''s will, stabilizing the four directions. When used, it shakes like thunder,manding respect within the four seas."


    "The Commoner''s Sword, wielded by those with disheveled hair and long beards, wearing ill-fitting clothes, with fierce eyes shing angrily, and speaking rudely. It strikes at the neck, stabs at the liver and lungs."


    Listening to Chess Sage Chimei''s exnation, Zhong Shan was filled with admiration.


    "Cutting through clouds above, severing the earth''s veins below. When unsheathed, it rectifies vassals,mands the four seas, and wins the hearts of all. What a sword, what a Heavenly Son Sword!" Zhong Shan nodded, his eyes full of admiration.


    Zhong Shan looked at Zhuangzi, a peculiar thought crossing his mind. Was Zhuangzi also a practitioner of the Emperor''s Way? His understanding was so profound.


    In the distance, Zhuangzi''s eyes opened. He flicked the sword with his finger.


    "Ding!"


    The sword resonated with a clear tone, vibrating gently. Zhuangzi looked at the Holy King of the Primordial Era.


    "It has reached the level of the Vassal Sword, but it still falls short of the Heavenly Son Sword," Zhuangzi said.


    "Oh?" The Holy King of the Primordial Era was slightly taken aback, a hint of disbelief in his tone.


    "Falling short of the Heavenly Son Sword?"


    "Inner excellence leads to outer sharpness. Take good care of yourself," Zhuangzi said with a hint of deeper meaning.


    "Thank you, Elder!" Although puzzled, the Holy King of the Primordial Era bowed slightly to Zhuangzi.


    Suddenly, Zhuangzi turned and looked in Zhong Shan''s direction.


    "Great Zhong Holy King, Zhong Shan?" Zhuangzi asked, puzzled.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    Not only Zhong Shan, but also the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect, the Holy King of the Primordial Era, and many onlookers were surprised. Why did Zhuangzi suddenly pay attention to Zhong Shan?


    "Zhong Shan, greets the Elder," Zhong Shan nodded, still puzzled.


    Leaving the Holy King of the Primordial Era behind, Zhuangzi stepped forward.


    "I have heard Yn Que praise you many times. Seeing you today, you are indeed extraordinary!" Zhuangzi said with a smile.


    Zhong Shan felt a bit strange. Extraordinary? Is it my constitution?


    "Elder, you tter me!" Zhong Shan said quickly.


    In the distance, the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect frowned, a serious look shing in his eyes.


    "Since I have examined the Heavenly Son Sword for the Primordial Holy King, why not do the same for your Great Zhong?" Zhuangzi said.


    Now, people found it even stranger. Examining the Heavenly Son Sword? Zhuangzi usually didn''t do this for others. He had done it for the Primordial Holy King because of his connection with Qingqiu. But why now? Why offer to examine Zhong Shan''s weapon?


    "I don''t use a sword," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head oddly.


    People were speechless. What emperor doesn''t have a sword? The Heavenly Son Sword, even if not used, is typically refined and kept!


    "A de will do," Zhuangzi said with a smile.


    The onlookers were even more bewildered. To amodate Zhong Shan, Zhuangzi was willing to break his usual practice of only examining swords and was even willing to look at a de?


    Zhong Shan did have a de, the great de "Longevity."


    "Thank you for your kindness, Elder, but I think I''ll pass," Zhong Shan refused.


    The spectators were speechless. Many Holy Kings dreamed of having Zhuangzi examine their swords to improve themselves, but Zhong Shan was refusing? Was he crazy?


    Zhuangzi, instead of getting angry at Zhong Shan''s refusal, smiled with satisfaction.


    "Such vast potential, rare in this world. Would you be willing to be my disciple?" Zhuangzi asked again.


    At this moment, the onlookers were no longer speechless; they were numb with shock. Was this for real? Zhuangzi had only ever epted eight disciples, each after a long period of scrutiny. Now he was proactively offering to take Zhong Shan as a disciple?


    Zhong Shan frowned, giving Zhuangzi a deep look.


    If he epted Zhuangzi as his master, the Great Zhong Heavenly Court would be protected from all but the Sages. But...


    "Thank you for your kindness, Elder, but my master is Tian Xingzi," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "But Tian Xingzi has passed away. You can still take a new master," Zhuangzi persisted.


    People couldn''t understand. Was this really Zhuangzi? Would he say such things? They looked at Zhong Shan with envy, wishing they could switch ces with him.


    "Since my master passed away, I only bow to Heaven and Earth! I appreciate your kindness, Elder, but this matter should not be mentioned again," Zhong Shan said firmly, seeming ungrateful to the onlookers.

 Chapter 879: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Discovery

    <h4>Chapter 879: Zhong Shan''s Discovery</h4>


    "Since my master passed away, I only bow to Heaven and Earth! I appreciate your kindness, Elder, but this matter should not be mentioned again!" Zhong Shan stated firmly, seeming ungrateful to the onlookers.


    At this moment, nearly everyone thought Zhong Shan had lost his mind. After all, cultivation became increasingly difficult the further one progressed. For some, Celestial Immortal was a lifetime teau.


    The same was true for Grand Immortal.


    Everyone knew of Zhuangzi''s strength, known as the closest to bing a Sage. His power was astonishing, and countless strong cultivators had yearned to be under his tutge but never seeded.


    But what was with Zhong Shan? He repeatedly refused, even as Zhuangzi continued to persuade him.


    Envy was expected, but jealousy was overwhelming. Many stared at Zhong Shan with red eyes, wishing they could switch ces with him.


    Cheng Baiyi and Sima Qing looked at Zhong Shan with dark expressions.


    The Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect frowned deeply, while the Holy King of the Primordial Era''s expression was hidden behind his mask.


    Princess Nine-Tails, standing nearby, looked anxious. "Agree! Why aren''t you agreeing?"


    After a deep look at Zhong Shan, Zhuangzi smiled faintly and said, "Everyone has their own aspirations. Since you are unwilling, I will not force it."


    "Thank you for your kindness, Elder," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Zhong Shan didn''t know why Zhuangzi suddenly wanted to take him as a disciple, but he instinctively refused. Setting aside his pride as an emperor, Zhong Shan didn''t believe Zhuangzi would take him as a disciple without a reason.


    The passage of time in the small thousand-world had taught Zhong Shan to see through the world''splexities. There is no unprovoked hatred, nor is there unprovoked love. Why did Zhuangzi want him as a disciple?


    Was it merely because of Yn Que''s praise? From Zhuangzi''s evaluation of the "Heavenly Son Sword," Zhong Shan could tell that Zhuangzi had a profound understanding of the Emperor''s Way, indicating he was a man of great wisdom.


    A man of such wisdom and ability wouldn''t seek rtionships without purpose.


    A vast potential, thest head of the Tian family, Tian Shenzi, had also mentioned it. Though Tian Shenzi was astonished, he hadn''t tried to take Zhong Shan as a disciple like Zhuangzi.


    To have reached his current status, Zhuangzi couldn''t be a shallow person. Zhong Shan was more inclined to believe Zhuangzi had some ulterior motive.


    A motive that was significant and unspoken.


    If Zhong Shan were already at the Ancient Immortal realm, he might have considered ying along with Zhuangzi. He wasn''t afraid of trouble, as his aplishments were all achieved amid challenges. But at his current Celestial Immortal level, Zhong Shan knew he couldn''t escape Zhuangzi''s grasp, so it was best to keep his distance.


    After giving Zhong Shan another look, Zhuangzi seemed to understand Zhong Shan''s resistance and nodded, saying, "Since that is the case, meeting is destiny. If you ever need anything,e to me."


    "Thank you!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    Zhuangzi looked around, finally resting his gaze on the Holy King of the Primordial Era. He nodded to him before a white light shot up from his body. The man whose body Zhuangzi had possessed fell headfirst into the sea below.


    After Zhuangzi left, Princess Nine-Tails rushed over.


    "Zhong Shan, are you crazy? Such a great opportunity!" Princess Nine-Tails eximed.


    "If I went with him, who would be your retainer?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Oh, right!" Princess Nine-Tails nodded, realizing the issue.


    The others, however, looked at Zhong Shan strangely.


    Why was Zhuangzi so keen on Zhong Shan?


    The Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect''s face darkened slightly. He had been nning to eliminate Zhong Shan before he could grow, but Zhuangzi''s attitude made him hesitate.


    After a cold nce at Zhong Shan, the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect flicked his sleeve and vanished with Cheng Baiyi.


    "Mr. Li, did you hear what Elder Zhuangzi said earlier?" the Holy King of the Primordial Era asked.


    "Yes!"


    "Withdraw the Primordial Army and announce to the world that Elder Zhuangzi has taken the Five-Colored Divine Stone!" the Holy Kingmanded.


    "Understood!"


    Then, the Holy King of the Primordial Era left with his group. As Sima Qing departed, he gave Zhong Shan a long, meaningful look.


    "Holy King Zhong, until we meet again," Chess Sage Chimei said, nodding.


    "Until we meet again," Zhong Shan replied, nodding back.


    Chess Sage Chimei''s figure flickered and disappeared from sight.


    People started leaving one after another, and the spectators dispersed, having seen enough. The events surrounding the Five-Colored Divine Stone, the Yuxu Kunlun Grand Formation, the Zhuxian Sword Formation, the fierce demon Ghost Carriage, the descent of the three Sages, and Zhuangzi''s sword evaluation were more than enough to leave asting impression on everyone.


    At this moment, people needed to find a ce to process everything they had witnessed.


    With Ghost Ind gone, the sea area quickly emptied, leaving only four people: Zhong Shan, Su Afo, Princess Nine-Tails, and Hong Xiao.


    "Alright, let''s go. The Five-Colored Divine Stone is gone. Let''s head back to Qingqiu," Princess Nine-Tails said, feeling a bit dejected.


    "Yes, Zhong Shan, what are you still looking at?" Su Afo called out.


    Zhong Shan, however, was frowning deeply and shaking his head.


    "What''s wrong?" Princess Nine-Tails asked, puzzled.


    "The Five-Colored Divine Stone is not Lady N��wa''s relic. The true relic is still hidden somewhere in Ao Lai Sea," Zhong Shan said with conviction.


    "How can that be? How can the Five-Colored Divine Stone not be the relic?" Su Afo eximed.


    Princess Nine-Tails, who had been disappointed earlier, now looked excited.


    "You''re not smart enough, so keep quiet!" Princess Nine-Tails said excitedly.


    Hong Xiao also looked at Zhong Shan with confusion.


    "How can you be so sure that Lady N��wa''s relic is still in Ao Lai Sea?" Princess Nine-Tails asked.


    "Senior Su Daji mentioned that the relic is rted to the fox n. Is the Five-Colored Divine Stone rted to the fox n? No, it isn''t. Moreover, the Five-Colored Divine Stone has been used to seal Ghost Carriage since before the Seven Sages'' plot. The timing doesn''t add up. Lastly, there''s what Zhuangzi said," Zhong Shan exined.


    "What did Zhuangzi say?" Princess Nine-Tails asked, puzzled.


    "Zhuangzi said, ''Fortunately, no major disaster has urred.'' What does this imply? At the very least, it suggests that there is still a significant secret hidden in Ao Lai Sea," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "Zhong Shan, you are amazing! Indeed, Lady N��wa''s relic is definitely not the Five-Colored Divine Stone; it must still be in Ao Lai Sea. Let''s keep searching. Only we should look for it!" Princess Nine-Tails said excitedly.


    Zhong Shan shook his head and said, "We''re not the only ones who can deduce this. We don''t know who else might be looking for it. If we continue to investigate, we must be cautious!"


    "Understood!"


    Seeing Princess Nine-Tails'' expression, Zhong Shan didn''t reveal everything he knew. He could tell that Princess Nine-Tails also realized the Five-Colored Divine Stone was not Lady N��wa''s relic and was just pretending not to know.


    Meanwhile, the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect left with Cheng Baiyi.


    "Master, since Zhuangzi is protecting Zhong Shan, we can''t kill him openly, but we can do it secretly," Cheng Baiyi suggested.


    The Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect looked at Cheng Baiyi and shook his head. "I no longer wish to kill Zhong Shan."


    Hearing this, Cheng Baiyi raised an eyebrow. "Alright."


    "Yes."


    "Master, you go back first. I have something to attend to," Cheng Baiyi said.


    "Be careful," the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect said with concern.


    "Thank you, Master!" Cheng Baiyi nodded.


    Cheng Baiyi then stepped away, quickly disappearing from the Leader of the Purple Heaven Sect''s sight.


    Watching Cheng Baiyi''s departing figure, the Leader''s concerned expression faded, reced by a slightly sinister look as he nced in the direction Cheng Baiyi had gone, a faint smile of disdain appearing on his lips.


    Sima Qing followed the Holy King of the Primordial Era as they left. Along the way:


    "Holy King, although Sima Qianjun brought it upon himself, he was still my cousin. I wish to give him a proper farewell," Sima Qing said.


    "Holy King, Sima Qianjun was my nephew. I also wish to give him a proper farewell," Sima Zongheng added.


    "Very well, go ahead," the Holy King nodded.


    Sima Qing and Sima Zongheng bowed slightly to the Holy King and then stepped away.


    Watching their departing figures, the Holy King said softly, "Mr. Li!"


    "I am here!"


    "The decree I asked you to announce earlier needs to be properly enforced. You will stay and oversee its execution," the Holy King instructed.


    "Understood!"


    Mr. Li understood the Holy King''s intentions and knew that the matter of the Sage''s relic in Ao Lai Sea was not yet over.


    Zhong Shan returned to the ind he had been on earlier.


    "Zhong Shan, have you found the location of Lady N��wa''s relic?" Princess Nine-Tails asked.


    "Almost," Zhong Shan said thoughtfully.


    "Almost? Have you found it? That''s impossible! People have been searching for it for hundreds of thousands of years and haven''t found it. How could you find it so quickly?" Su Afo eximed.


    "No, for hundreds of thousands of years, people have been searching for the fall of the Supreme Sage, not specifically for Lady N��wa''s relic. The information about Lady N��wa''s relic only surfaced in the past six months," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "So what? You found it first, didn''t you?" Su Afo said oddly.


    "No, I haven''t found it yet, but I know how to look for it," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Isn''t that the same thing? No one else thought of it, but you did."


    "Who said I was the only one who thought of it?" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Then where is Lady N��wa''s relic? We need to get it before anyone else does," Princess Nine-Tails said, frowning.


    "It''s unreachable for now; the time isn''t right," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "What do you mean?"


    "The waters of Ao Lai Sea have already been searched countless times by numerous powerful beings, including Sages, and nothing unusual was found. This indicates that Lady N��wa''s relic is not in Ao Lai Sea," Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    "What? Not in Ao Lai Sea? Then where is it?"


    "It''s in the sky! High above Ao Lai Sea!" Zhong Shan confirmed.


    "The sky?"


    "And it will only appear at noon on the seventh day of the sixth month," Zhong Shan said with conviction.


    "I understand," Princess Nine-Tails said, suddenly enlightened.


    "What do you understand?" Su Afo asked, frowning.


    "The stars, the movement of the stars in the sky. It follows a yearly cycle, and only at noon on the seventh day of the sixth month do the stars align in a specific position, creating a temporal force that reveals Lady N��wa''s relic. At that moment, the blinding sunlight makes it impossible to see the treasure high in the sky. That''s why it has remained undiscovered for hundreds of thousands of years without deliberate searching!" Princess Nine-Tails exined excitedly.

 Chapter 880: N眉wa

    <h4>Chapter 880: N��wa</h4>


    "The stars, the celestial bodies'' movement in the sky, follow a yearly cycle. Only at noon on the seventh day of the sixth month do the stars align in a specific position, creating a temporal force that reveals Lady N��wa''s relic. At that moment, the blinding sunlight makes it impossible to see the treasure high in the sky. That''s why it has remained undiscovered for hundreds of thousands of years without deliberate searching!" Princess Nine-Tails exined excitedly, her eyes bright with realization.


    "Interesting..." Su Afo frowned deeply, as if trying to digest this theory.


    "But Ao Lai Sea is vast, and the sky above it is even more expansive. On the seventh day of the sixth month, we only have one hour to find the exact location. How will we do that?" Princess Nine-Tails asked.


    "The location isn''t hard to find. Everyone already knows it!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Everyone knows? How is that possible?" Su Afo was incredulous.


    "It''s right above the ce where the Supreme Sage fell, in the infinitely distant starry sky," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "The ce where the Supreme Sage fell..." Su Afo''s face twitched.


    "Exactly!" Zhong Shan confirmed.


    "How can you be sure it''s above the Supreme Sage''s fall? Perhaps the Supreme Sage and Lady N��wa have no connection," Su Afo suggested.


    "No connection? Impossible. The actions of Sages are often so profound! General Hong Xiao, could you please conjure that part of the sea with your magic?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Sure," Hong Xiao nodded.


    With a wave of his hand, Hong Xiao conjured an image of the sea where the Supreme Sage had fallen.


    "What''s the significance of this..." Su Afo still didn''t understand.


    "General Hong Xiao, you''ve seen the records of this area, right?" Zhong Shan asked, pointing to the information Hong Xiao had gathered.


    "Yes, I''ve seen them all, but I didn''t notice anything special," Hong Xiao nodded.


    "Disy all the sects established on the seventh day of the sixth month," Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "Uh? I can''t remember all of them..." Hong Xiao said, puzzled.


    Zhong Shan handed a silk scroll to Su Afo.


    "Here, read this out. General Hong Xiao will mark them on the map," Zhong Shan instructed.


    Su Afo took the scroll and began reading aloud.


    "Cloud Piercing Sect, Thousand Bends Ind! Guiyuan Sect, Green Lake Ind! ..."


    As Su Afo read the names, Hong Xiao marked them with red dots on the map.


    When Su Afo finished reading over a hundred sect names, Hong Xiao''s eyes widened in astonishment.


    On the map, the red dots connected to form arge character.


    "W��..." Princess Nine-Tails read aloud.


    "W��? It spells ''W��'', Lady N��wa? So it''s here..." Su Afo eximed in surprise.


    "But these sects only appeared in the past hundreds of thousands of years. How could it be such a coincidence?" Hong Xiao asked, puzzled.


    "It''s not a coincidence. For hundreds of thousands of years, someone has been manipting events, or it''s Lady N��wa''s n set in motion after her death," Zhong Shan said.


    "Impossible! Lady N��wa could n events for hundreds of thousands of years after her death?" Su Afo found it hard to believe.


    "It''s not difficult. She could have set up the positions in advance and found reliable people to establish the sects in these locations after her death. Also, haven''t you noticed that these sects all have a peculiar trait? They all disappeared mysteriously," Zhong Shan exined with a smile.


    At this point, Su Afo and Hong Xiao were staring at Zhong Shan in astonishment.


    It was unbelievable. To deduce this pattern from the establishment of these sects��was he even human? Who could have thought of this?


    Everyone fell silent as they looked at Zhong Shan.


    How does Zhong Shan''s mind work? Su Afo felt like banging his head against a wall. How could there be such a vast difference in intelligence between people with the same brain?


    "We can be certain now. Lady N��wa''s relic is directly above this spot. The fact that the Supreme Sage fell here indicates that he came for Lady N��wa. But since Lady N��wa had already fallen, why did the Supreme Sagee? This needs further investigation," Zhong Shan said, frowning.


    "Let''s not dwell on why the Supreme Sage came. What matters is how we can retrieve Lady N��wa''s relic! That''s the key issue," Princess Nine-Tails said immediately.


    "Didn''t Senior Su Daji tell you?" Zhong Shan asked, smiling at Princess Nine-Tails.


    It seemed as if Zhong Shan had uncovered a secret, causing Princess Nine-Tails to blush.


    "Alright, I''ll tell you. Senior Su Daji gave me something, but it can only be used at the location and is the final key. So, even if others find the relic, they can''t retrieve it. Is that clear now?" Princess Nine-Tails said, rolling her eyes.


    "What? Why didn''t you say so earlier!" Su Afo eximed.


    "When I asked you for a Grand Immortal artifact, you were so stingy. Why should I tell you anything..." Princess Nine-Tails said, wrinkling her nose.


    Su Afo was left speechless.


    "In that case, we''re not the only ones who know..." Su Afo suddenly said.


    "Impossible. Many wise people could figure this out. This code isn''t hard to crack. At the very least, I''m sure Mr. Li could deduce it," Zhong Shan said.


    "But the stars are so far away. With our current strength, it would take us three to five years to reach any of them!" Su Afo said, feeling troubled again.


    "Lady N��wa would have made arrangements. There must be a special way. We just need to be there at the right time," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright."


    "Zhong Shan,e out here!"


    Suddenly, a loud shout came from outside the hall.


    Everyone raised their eyebrows at the sound.


    "Is that Sima Zongheng?" Princess Nine-Tails asked, frowning.


    They all stepped out of the hall and saw a group of men standing on the square, led by Sima Qing and Sima Zongheng. All of them had ck armbands.


    In front of them was a coffin.


    Given the importance of Sima Zongheng and Sima Qing, the guards on the square did not dare to stop them.


    "Sima Zongheng, what do you want?" Princess Nine-Tails demanded, her eyes ring.


    "What do I want? Zhong Shan killed my nephew Sima Qianjun. What do you think I want?" Sima Zongheng said coldly.


    "Sima Qianjun? I don''t recall killing anyone by that name," Zhong Shan said with a faint smile.


    Zhong Shan nced at Sima Qing. He didn''t need to think too hard to realize that this was just a pretext. Sima Qing was here for the Five-Colored Divine Stone. In Sima Qing''s mind, the stone was with Zhong Shan. If he didn''t seize it now, once Zhong Shan refined it into an external avatar, it would be impossible to retrieve it.


    "There are so many witnesses, and you''re still denying it?" Sima Zongheng said coldly.


    "Deny what? Are you crazy, Sima Zongheng? Millions of people saw Sima Qianjun cowardly sneak attack Zhong Shan, but he missed and got killed by his own arrow. How can you Sima family bring this shameful incident up as an usation?" Princess Nine-Tails shouted.


    "Hmph, Princess, you don''t understand because Sima Qianjun isn''t your family. No matter what, Zhong Shan must pay with his life for killing Sima Qianjun!" Sima Zongheng said coldly.


    "Pay with my life? What gives you the right to demand that?" Zhong Shan replied with a disdainful smile.


    "My Sima family is the authority here. You, a mere vassal, dare kill a pir of the Sima family? I have the right to punish you," Sima Qing suddenly spoke up.


    "You have the right..." Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Mr. Li, you''ve been watching for a while. Do I, Sima Qing, have the right to deal with Zhong Shan?" Sima Qing suddenly addressed Mr. Li.


    Suddenly, Mr. Li''s figure appeared in the distance.


    "You''re dreaming! Sima Qianjun brought this upon himself. What does that have to do with Zhong Shan? Zhong Shan is my guest; no one is allowed to touch him!" Princess Nine-Tails immediately shouted.


    Mr. Li showed a wry smile. "This is the rule of the Primordial Heavenly Court: external vassals'' rights are always inferior to those of the court''s internal ministers. Mr. Li, isn''t that correct?" Sima Qing pressed.


    "Mr. Li, don''t bully me, or I''ll tell the Holy King!" Princess Nine-Tails red.


    "Indeed, the Primordial Heavenly Court has such a rule. However, Sima Qianjun initiated the attack. The young prince cannot fully punish Zhong Shan, but he can design an appropriate penalty. If Zhong Shan can endure it, Sima Qianjun''s death will be unrted to Zhong Shan," Mr. Li said.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed. The Primordial Heavenly Court''s rules? These rules clearly favor the court''s own. As an outsider, he would never have equal rights in the Primordial Heavenly Court. This ce wasn''t a long-term haven.


    "Then the Zhuxian Sword Formation it is. If Zhong Shan can walk out of my Zhuxian Sword Formation, I will personally ensure the Sima family never pursues the matter of Sima Qianjun again!" Sima Qing said sternly.


    "Sima Qing, are you insane? The Zhuxian Sword Formation? You want Zhong Shan dead!" Princess Nine-Tails yelled.


    "Who will pay for Sima Qianjun''s life then?" Sima Qing retorted coldly.


    "No one touches Zhong Shan today, or I''ll fight to the death!" Princess Nine-Tails shouted.


    "Mr. Li, you decide. Otherwise, we''ll have to call for a Council of Kings. No one wants that, especially the Holy King," Sima Qing said coldly.


    A Council of Kings? The term seemed particrly sensitive, and Mr. Li''s pupils shrank instantly.


    "Mr. Li, whose side are you on?" Princess Nine-Tails demanded angrily.


    "Princess, even if I stay out of it now, the Holy King might not...ter..." Mr. Li said with great difficulty, his attitude clear that he was deciding to sacrifice Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan watched everyone''s reactions closely. The Council of Kings? Was it really that important? Even the Holy King of the Primordial Heavenly Court didn''t want to see it happen? No wonder Zhuangzi had said, "Inner excellence leads to outer sharpness." It seemed there were internal rules within Qingqiu that even the Holy King couldn''t override.


    "Mr. Li, are you really sending Zhong Shan to his death?" Princess Nine-Tails said bitterly.


    "It''s just the Zhuxian Sword Formation. What''s the difficulty?" Zhong Shan grabbed Princess Nine-Tails'' arm.


    "Haha, what a bold statement. Great Holy King? You think too highly of yourself," Sima Zongheng sneered.


    "The Zhuxian Sword Formation? I''ve faced it before. I''m only worried that some people, after I break through it, will cling to their elders'' legs and cry shamefully," Zhong Shan said with a cold smile.

 Chapter 881: King Zhou You

    <h4>Chapter 881: King Zhou You</h4>


    "Zhuxian Sword Formation? I''ve experienced it before. I just fear that some people will cry and cling to their elders'' ''legs'' once I break it!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Who are you saying will cry and cling to their elders'' ''legs''?" Sima Zongheng retorted coldly.


    "Who? I have no idea who!" Zhong Shan replied with a mocking smile.


    "So, you agree?" Sima Qing asked calmly.


    "What if I don''t? Since you''ve prepared, stop wasting words. Talking to you is a waste of my dignity!" Zhong Shan responded coldly.


    "Whose dignity are you talking about?" Sima Zongheng''s face turned livid.


    Sima Qing, however, remained calm and smiled slightly, "Please, go ahead."


    "Zhong Shan, that''s the Zhuxian Sword Formation. Together, it''s a set of ancient immortal weapons. You can''t defeat it. Trust me, no one can touch you!" Princess Jiuwei quickly grabbed Zhong Shan''s arm.


    Shaking his head, Zhong Shan replied solemnly, "Thank you for your kindness, Princess, but I must go. If I don''t shatter the Zhuxian Sword Formation today, any random nobody will dare to disrupt us tomorrow!"


    "Who are you calling a nobody?" Sima Zongheng was about to lose his mind.


    Ever since his Dao heart was broken by Zhong Shan, he seemed especially easy to anger. His usualposure and demeanor werepletely gone. Every word Zhong Shan said seemed to have a strong impact on him.


    "Second Uncle, don''t speak!" Sima Qing said calmly.


    Sima Zongheng looked at Sima Qing and nodded, "Yes!"


    This subtle change made both Mr. Li and Zhong Shan frown.


    A nephewmanding his uncle?


    Sima Qing stepped forward, flying above the vast sea. With a sweep of hisrge sleeve, four divine swords suddenly plunged into the sea, reaching from the ocean depths to the clouds above.


    A vast array of sword energy swirled, quickly forming a deadly formation.


    Zhuxian Sword Formation! To the east was the Sword of Zhuxian, to the west the Sword of Traps, to the south the Sword of ughter, and to the north the Sword of Destruction!


    With the four swords, the powerful killing formation deterred anyone from approaching.


    "Go ahead. If you pass the Zhuxian Sword Formation, we will not pursue the matter with Sima Qianjun any further!" Sima Qing said sternly.


    Looking at the Zhuxian Sword Formation before him, Zhong Shan smiled faintly and stepped in.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~!"


    Countless sword energies suddenly appeared around Zhong Shan, shooting towards him menacingly. Zhong Shan unleashed his aura, and a terrifying force erupted, scattering the surrounding sword energies.


    At this moment, Sima Qing also stepped into the formation.


    Sima Qing was the master of the formation, able to control it at will.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A huge, invisible sword of space descended from the sky towards Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan raised his hand to meet it.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Zhong Shan was pushed down a hundred feet before the giant sword''s momentum dissipated.


    "Zhong Shan!"


    A loud shout from Sima Qing echoed within the formation, halting all sword energies.


    The two faced each other in midair.


    "Did you trap me in the Zhuxian Sword Formation for the Five-Colored Divine Stone?" Zhong Shan asked with a hint of disdain.


    "No," Sima Qing shook his head.


    "Oh?"


    "I know the Five-Colored Divine Stone is in your possession. I won''t pursue it further, and I can even give it to you. But I have one request," Sima Qing said with a smile.


    "A request?"


    "I want you."


    "Me?" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    "Yes, I want you to pledge your loyalty to me. I''ve looked into your background and I admire your talents. I need someone like you. If you pledge your loyalty to me, not only will I let you keep the Five-Colored Divine Stone, but I may also reward you with ancient immortal weapons in the future!" Sima Qing said solemnly.


    "Reward me? Pledge loyalty to you?" Zhong Shan chuckled.


    "I know you doubt my position now, but it won''t be long before Taichu is mine. No, the entire Fengzong Territory will be mine. I need talents like you to help me conquer the world, just like the Great Zhou of old, invincible and unmatched for eternity!" Sima Qing said excitedly.


    "The Great Zhou? Invincible and unmatched for eternity?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    Thinking Zhong Shan was tempted, Sima Qing grew more enthusiastic.


    "Yes, in the old days of the mortal world, King Zhou You held one-eighth of the world, the greatest dynasty of all time. With a single beacon fire, all the kingdoms came to pay tribute. On his grand birthday, the entire world celebrated, and even sages gathered to honor him!" Sima Qing continued.


    King Zhou You? A grand birthday celebrated by the world? Sages gathered to honor him? Holding one-eighth of the mortal world?


    Zhong Shan frowned at Sima Qing. Was this true? A non-sage attracting a crowd of sages to celebrate his birthday seemed unlikely. Yet Zhong Shan felt Sima Qing wasn''t lying.


    King Zhou You, who held dominion over the world?


    "I know you don''t recognize King Zhou You. After the fall of the Great Zhou, much of his information was erased in Heaven''s wrath. Few know of him. But I, Sima Qing, will be such a king in the future!" Sima Qing dered solemnly.


    "King Zhou You, who held dominion over the world? Why did he die? Why did the Great Zhou copse?"


    "Like the fall of the Seven Sages, the Great Zhou conspired with them to reverse fate. But fate is immutable. The Great Zhou and the Seven Sages fell together. King Zhou You! Reaching his status is enough for me!" Sima Qing said excitedly.


    Zhong Shan smiled faintly, "That''s enough for you? King Zhou You held one-eighth of the mortal world. Don''t you want to unify the mortal world?"


    "The Grand World is not like a small world. Unifying it is impossible. Even King Zhou You only held one-eighth with the help of the Seven Sages. To hold dominion over the world is enough for me," Sima Qing said firmly.


    Zhong Shan looked at Sima Qing with great seriousness.


    Sima Qing tried to entice him, "Have you decided? If you pledge loyalty to me, I''ll give you everything you want!"


    Zhong Shan looked seriously at Sima Qing, his face twitching, then suddenly burst intoughter, "Hahahaha...!"


    Sima Qing''s face turned ugly.


    "What? You refuse?" Sima Qing said coldly.


    "Are you still dreaming?" Zhong Shanughed without any regard for Sima Qing.


    "Short-sighted!" Sima Qing said coldly.


    "Fine, I''m short-sighted. Start the Zhuxian Sword Formation. I have other matters to attend to," Zhong Shan said dismissively.


    Previously, Zhong Shan had considered Sima Qing a significant figure, but their exchange had revealed Sima Qing''s true nature. Such a person wasn''t worthy of being his opponent.


    Sima Qing''s face darkened. "Opportunities like thise only once. Miss it, and you''ll get nothing!"


    "Toozy to waste words with you!" Zhong Shan replied dismissively.


    "Hmph!"


    In his anger, a purple longsword suddenly appeared in the sky, mimicking the Zhuxian Sword. Even though the Zhuxian Sword Formation was already set up, how could there be another sword?


    This imitation Zhuxian Sword shot rapidly towards Zhong Shan, carrying a terrifying aura that seemed capable of destroying everything in its path.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A massive purple tail suddenly appeared in front of Zhong Shan, colliding with the oing imitation Zhuxian Sword. With a loud bang, the attacking sword shattered on impact.


    Sima Qing''s face changed.


    "Zhong Shan, you truly have hidden your strength. But it''s a pity, this is the Zhuxian Sword Formation. Every strand of sword energy here can transform into a Zhuxian Sword. Take your time and enjoy it!" Sima Qing said coldly.


    "Enjoy? I like that word!" Zhong Shanughed.


    As he spoke, a colossal creature emerged at Zhong Shan''s feet. No longer hiding its power, the terrifying Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail slowly revealed itself. The massive tails, swaying with immense power, emitted sharp sword energies from four of them.


    Sima Qing noticed that the sword energy from this creature was even stronger than the imitation Zhuxian Sword Formation''s, more pure and formidable.


    The gigantic creature, spanning two thousand miles in diameter, swayed its eight tails, preventing any sword energy from approaching Zhong Shan.


    The creature''s two gleaming ck eyes seemed to be sparkling with excitement as it surveyed the four directions, specifically eyeing the four imitation Zhuxian Swords.


    "Yiya yiya...!" The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail cried out joyfully, its voice filled with excitement. Its eyes now shone with a greenish, greedy light.


    "What kind of divine beast is this?" Sima Qing''s face changed dramatically.


    Outside the imitation Zhuxian Sword Formation.


    "Mr. Li, if anything happens to Zhong Shan, I will hold you responsible!" Princess Jiuwei shouted angrily.


    "I am merely a witness, Princess. Please don''t me me," Mr. Li said with a wry smile.


    "It''s over, it''s over. How can Zhong Shan break the Zhuxian Sword Formation?" Su Afo said worriedly.


    At this moment, the happiest person was Sima Zongheng.


    "Break it? Dream on! Even a great immortal couldn''t break the formation. Zhong Shan, a mere celestial immortal, is seeking death," Sima Zonghengughed.


    "Shut up!" Princess Jiuwei snapped.


    "Princess Jiuwei, you can''t control me. Worry about Zhong Shan if you like, but be realistic. Zhong Shan is doomed. A weak Dahe Sacred Court? My Sima family can send any great immortal to destroy it. Opposing my Sima family is courting destruction!" Sima Zongheng said gleefully.


    "The Sima family? What of it? Have you ever gained the upper hand against Zhong Shan? One died, another was captured, and the third is neither human nor ghost,pletely mad!" Princess Jiuwei retorted.


    Neither human nor ghost,pletely mad��a clear reference to Sima Zongheng losing control after his Dao heart was shattered.


    "Hmph, in any case, Zhong Shan is doomed this time. Breaking the Zhuxian Sword Formation? Impossible, unless that divine beast of Dahe suddenly appears. Otherwise, he can forget about breaking the formation!" Sima Zongheng shouted.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    At that moment, the Zhuxian Sword Formation on the sea surface exploded with a loud noise. A massive purple tail, hundreds of miles long, pierced through the formation from the inside out.

 Chapter 882: Breaking the Zhuxian Sword Formation

    <h4>Chapter 882: Breaking the Zhuxian Sword Formation</h4>


    "Hmph, in any case, Zhong Shan is doomed this time. Breaking the Zhuxian Sword Formation? Impossible, unless that divine beast of Dahe suddenly appears. Otherwise, he''ll never break the formation!" Sima Zongheng shouted.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    At that moment, the Zhuxian Sword Formation on the sea surface exploded with a loud noise. A massive purple tail, hundreds of miles long, pierced through the formation from the inside out.


    The sudden and dramatic change was like a p in Sima Zongheng''s face.


    Everyone watching, including the guards, Mr. Li, and Princess Jiuwei, widened their eyes in astonishment.


    "What is that thing?"


    The guards were confused, thinking it was a natural change within the Zhuxian Sword Formation. But Mr. Li, Sima Zongheng, and the others knew better.


    That tail was none other than the tail of the divine beast that once belonged to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. This beast was so overpowering that it once devoured a powerful Taotie that had charged towards Lingxiao Heavenly Court in a single gulp.


    The divine beast reappeared? How did it get into the Zhuxian Sword Formation?


    Sima Zongheng''s heart raced. His Dao heart had been broken and never fully healed. Each encounter with Zhong Shan worsened his condition.


    "What is that thing?" Su Afo asked, wide-eyed.


    "The divine beast of Dahe!" Mr. Li exined.


    "The mysterious divine beast of Dahe? It''s huge!" Princess Jiuwei eximed.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The purple tail swung towards the sky, sending a massive amount of sword energy upwards. This sword energy did note from the imitation Zhuxian Sword Formation; it seemed to originate from the tail itself. The energy was extremely powerful, surging upwards like a celestial river. In an instant, the sword energy within the formation waspletely washed away.


    The sight was so shocking that everyone had their mouths wide open.


    "Is there sword energy stronger than the Zhuxian Sword Formation''s?" Su Afo couldn''t believe it.


    "If one tail is this powerful, what about all eight tails?" Princess Jiuwei''s eyes sparkled.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The purple tail re-entered the Zhuxian Sword Formation, emerging from another direction. As it swung, all the surrounding sword energy was disrupted and turned to dust.


    "How can this be? It''s impossible! It can''t break the Zhuxian Sword Formation!" Sima Zongheng muttered in disbelief.


    "Yiya yiya~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail''s cries echoed across the sea as it was about to break the Zhuxian Sword Formation. No amount of prayer from Sima Zongheng could change this fact.


    This time, not only did a purple tail emerge, but the head of the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail also appeared.


    Its two gleaming ck eyes stared excitedly at the imitation Zhuxian Sword.


    "Yiya yiya!" The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail cried out joyfully.


    Although the creature''s diameter was two thousand miles, it was still smallerpared to the towering imitation Zhuxian Sword, only slightly wider.


    "It came out? It dares to face the Zhuxian Sword directly, unaware that the Zhuxian Sword is the sharpest in the world? A mere sh could sever its head!" Sima Zongheng said bitterly.


    As if responding to Sima Zongheng''s words, the Zhuxian Sword moved as if to sh at the head of the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail.


    "Get out of the way!" Princess Jiuwei shouted.


    At this moment, worried about Zhong Shan and the creature aiding him, Princess Jiuwei also became concerned for the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail. Seeing the Zhuxian Sword about to strike, she cried out in rm.


    Princess Jiuwei''s shout seemed to have an effect. The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail, which was charging towards the Zhuxian Sword, suddenly paused and turned to look at the ind.


    Seeing the creature dazed and distracted, Princess Jiuwei pped her forehead. She regretted shouting.


    "Hahaha~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Sima Zonghengughed heartily. In that moment of distraction, the Zhuxian Sword had already reached the head of the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail, its de poised to cut the creature in two.


    "Watch out!" Princess Jiuwei cried out in rm.


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail turned its head, unable to find the treasure it was looking for. Its adorable eyes showed a hint of frustration.


    As it turned its head, the Zhuxian Sword was already upon it.


    Many turned away, unable to watch the cruel scene unfold as the Zhuxian Sword struck the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail.


    "Ha~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A sound of a deep inhale echoed. The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail opened its mouth wide. The Zhuxian Sword struck.


    "Awooo!"


    The Zhuxian Sword seemed to be embedded in the creature, as if it had been cut in half. The ind fell silent, and Princess Jiuwei and Su Afo looked on with deep regret. Being struck by the Zhuxian Sword like this meant certain death.


    "Hahaha, a divine beast? In front of the Zhuxian Sword, there are no divine beasts!" Sima Zonghengughed.


    "Gulp!"


    A swallowing sound was heard. The head of the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail moved, detaching from the Zhuxian Sword.


    Sima Zongheng''sughter abruptly stopped. Su Afo, Princess Jiuwei, Mr. Li, and the countless guards were all wide-eyed in shock.


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail was unharmed, but the Zhuxian Sword was not. It wasn''t that the sword had cut into the creature; rather, the sword had been bitten in half.


    The Zhuxian Sword was chewed into three pieces, with the middle section eaten by the beast.


    Everyone felt as if they were dreaming, but the bite marks on the remaining two pieces of the Zhuxian Sword were unmistakably clear.


    The hollow section in the middle was a jarring sight to everyone.


    "Princess, p me," Su Afo said in disbelief.


    "Smack!" Princess Jiuwei pped him hard, sending him flying eight feet away.


    Princess Jiuwei rubbed her hand and murmured, "My hand hurts. Seems it''s not a dream."


    Su Afo, eight feet away, held his cheek, looking hurt. "I was just saying..."


    "It''s impossible, absolutely impossible!" Sima Zongheng muttered in disbelief.


    Whether he believed it or not, the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail wasn''t going to wait for others to process the situation. Its terrifying mouth bit off the lower half of the Zhuxian Sword.


    Then, as if its body turned to rubber, it chewed on the upper half. The creature''s round head deformed as it swallowed the upper half of the Zhuxian Sword.


    The bizarre sight of the divine beast''s transformation stunned everyone.


    With the Zhuxian Sword swallowed, the Zhuxian Sword Formation shattered.


    As the formation broke, the remaining three swords should have flown back to Sima Qing.


    But at this moment, the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail had each of the three swords entangled in one of its tails.


    Upon seeing the formation copse, the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail suddenly panicked. Without even bothering to fully digest the Zhuxian Sword in its mouth, it swiftly pulled the other three swords close with its tails, and hastily swallowed them as well.


    The creature''s head, already distorted, continued to shake as it chewed on the four swords. In no time, its head began to shrink, indicating the swords were being ground into smaller and smaller pieces.


    The guards were in shock, their jaws practically dislocated. Mr. Li stared with wide eyes, utterly baffled. Princess Jiuwei and Su Afo, however, were visibly excited.


    Only Sima Zongheng, watching this iprehensible scene, felt his Dao heart shatter once again. The psychological torment he experienced was unbearable, causing blood to rise in his throat.


    "Argh!" Sima Zongheng spat out blood in his fury.


    "Master, are you alright?" His men quickly supported him.


    On the sea, Sima Qing''s mouth hung open as he stared at the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail, which was happily chewing on the four Zhuxian Swords. His mind was in turmoil.


    "I finally understand where that divine stone went!" Sima Qing murmured, staring at the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail with mixed emotions.


    This world indeed has all kinds of divine beasts. He had dismissed Sima Zongheng''s stories before, but now it seemed he had been too careless.


    A divine beast that could eat the Zhuxian Swords like carrots?


    The Zhuxian Swords were ancient immortal artifacts, coveted by countless people, and many had died for them. The Sima family had spent tens of thousands of master craftsmen to create such a treasure.


    And now, it had been eaten by a divine beast? Sima Qing wanted to rage and scream, but those feelings seemed utterly powerless. With a beast like this, it was no wonder Zhong Shan could disregard even great immortals.


    It was too uncanny!


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail flew back to Zhong Shan, shrinking to the size of a palm andnding on his shoulder. In its small form, it looked extremely adorable, its eight little tails waving around, appearingpletely harmless. It seemed like a cute pet, yet who had ever seen a pet that could eat the Zhuxian Swords?


    "What is this divine beast called?" Sima Qing asked in bewilderment.


    "It''s called the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    His words seemed to be directed at Sima Qing, but also at everyone on the ind. Zhong Shan believed that this information would soon spread across the world, or at least throughout the Fengzong Territory.


    "The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail? Good! Good! Good!" Sima Qing eximed deeply.


    It was unclear whether he was speaking out of anger or had developed an interest in the beast.


    With a flick of his sleeve, Zhong Shan flew back to the ind.


    "Carry the coffin, we''re leaving!" Sima Qing ordered.


    With the Zhuxian Sword Formation broken, Sima Qing had no reason to trouble Zhong Shan any further, though he found the defeat hard to swallow. Without looking back, he walked away, his men carrying the coffin and quickly following.


    "Zhong Shan, where did you get that divine beast? Get me one too, it''s so cool!" Su Afo suddenly jumped forward.

 Chapter 883: Magu

    <h4>Chapter 883: Magu</h4>


    At this moment, almost everyone was staring at the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail perched on Zhong Shan''s shoulder.


    "It''s so cute! Zhong Shan, give it to me!" Princess Jiuwei eximed.


    "Yiya yiya!"


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail wagged its little tails, warning Princess Jiuwei to stay away, but its adorable appearance only made her eyes shine brighter with excitement.


    "Yiya!"


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail cried out again, and in a sh, it disappeared.


    "Where''s the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail? Zhong Shan, where did it go?" Princess Jiuwei asked urgently.


    "You scared it away!" Zhong Shan replied, exasperated.


    "I don''t care, Zhong Shan. You have to find it for me. I haven''t even hugged it yet!" Princess Jiuwei demanded.


    Zhong Shan was speechless. Turning his attention, he looked at Mr. Li.


    "Mr. Li, to what do we owe the honor of your visit?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    Everyone turned to look at Mr. Li, knowing he hade uninvited.


    "By the order of the Holy King, the Taichu army is to withdraw. I am here to inform you that Nuwa''s relic has been found, and you are to return to Qingqiu," Mr. Li said with a smile.


    "Alright, we know. You can leave now," Princess Jiuwei said dismissively.


    Mr. Li did not leave immediately but instead gave Zhong Shan a meaningful look before addressing Princess Jiuwei. "Princess, the Holy King favors you, but it is best to distinguish between inside and outside. You are the Princess of Taichu."


    Zhong Shan gave a faint smile. Mr. Li was warning Princess Jiuwei not to get too close to him.


    "My affairs are none of your concern!" Princess Jiuwei retorted with a stern expression.


    "My words are done. Take care, Princess," Mr. Li said, then vanished.


    "Zhong Shan, don''t mind him. He''s just meddlesome!" Princess Jiuweiforted Zhong Shan.


    "Princess, do you know the background of this Mr. Li?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Him? I don''t know. We couldn''t find out his background, but the Holy King trusts him greatly," Princess Jiuwei replied, shaking her head.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    As everyone returned to the main hall, Zhong Shan''s mood was not good. He had realized something very troubling.


    The imitation Zhuxian Swords, whenbined, formed an ancient immortal artifact. After the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail had eaten and digested them, the energy released had only elevated Zhong Shan from the peak of the seventh celestial level to the initial eighth celestial level.


    Although he had advanced a level, it meant that in the future, even grand immortal artifacts would have no effect. Unless he spent a great deal of time cultivating, he would need ancient immortal artifacts to level up.


    Ancient immortal artifacts? Zhong Shan was speechless.


    Thinking back to the early days when many great immortals fought for a single grand immortal artifact, it now seemed he needed ancient immortal artifacts to progress. Future advancements would be increasingly difficult.


    Hopefully, Nuwa''s relic would contain something valuable.


    On the sixth day of the sixth month, a day ahead of schedule, Zhong Shan and his group arrived at the sea where the Supreme Sage had fallen.


    As expected, many smart people had arrived before them. By the time Zhong Shan and his group arrived, more than ten factions were already present.


    Although the number was not as overwhelming as the scramble for the Five-Colored Divine Stone on Ghost Ind, the quality of those gathered was significantly higher.


    These ten or so factions brought about fifty thousand people, with Zhong Shan, Su Afo, Princess Jiuwei, and Hong Xiao alone bringing five thousand.


    Everyone''s eyes were fixed on the patch of sea surrounded by the inds. Peoplended on different inds, all gazing at the central point. Although the time hadn''te yet, it seemed everyone was impatient.


    Nuwa''s relic? That was an incredible find.


    Zhong Shan stood on the northern ind of this sea area, surveying the surroundings. Among the gathered forces, he spotted a few familiar faces.


    To the east, there was Cheng Baiyi from the Zixiao Daoist Temple along with a group of his followers. How did he know about this ce? Did he figure it out himself, or was he informed by someone else? It didn''t matter; what mattered was that he was half an enemy to Zhong Shan.


    To the south, Zhong Shan saw an ally.


    A figure wrapped in a ck robe, emanating a faint aura of death. It was none other than Mr. Corpse, themander of the fourth legion of the Dahe Sacred Court. Noticing Zhong Shan''s gaze, Mr. Corpse nodded slightly but didn''t acknowledge him openly.


    To the west, there was Mr. Li from Taichu.


    Seeing Mr. Li, Zhong Shan''s eyes filled with curiosity. Mr. Li? If he was here, where was the Holy King of Taichu? Mr. Li was known for his loyalty to Taichu. Discovering Nuwa''s relic and not reporting it to the Holy King seemed unlikely, especially since he had brought dozens of subordinates.


    These were the three forces Zhong Shan recognized. As for the other ten or so factions, Zhong Shan couldn''t identify them all.


    At this moment, none of the groups were engaging in conversation. Instead, everyone was focused on the center of the sea area surrounded by the inds.


    In the center, an eerie figure sat cross-legged on the water.


    A figure wrapped in a hemp robe. From her silhouette, Zhong Shan could tell it was a woman, and a woman with an extremely alluring figure at that.


    A woman in a hemp robe sitting cross-legged in the sea? What was she doing?


    Not just Zhong Shan, but almost everyone was puzzled by this hemp-robed woman. Her location was too peculiar; she was sitting at the very spot where the Supreme Sage had fallen.


    "What is she doing? Why is she sitting on the sea? With so many inds, why sit there?" Princess Jiuwei asked, frowning.


    "Not sure. Maybe she wants to get a head start," Su Afo shook his head.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes shed as he looked at the hemp-robed woman. With his Red Luan Eye, he was taken aback by what he saw.


    Through the hood of the hemp robe, Zhong Shan saw her face, a face marred beyond recognition.


    Judging by the contours, she must have been very beautiful once. But now her face was covered in scars, resembling centipedes, making her look terrifying.


    Cultivators who reach a certain level can heal some of their wounds. So, what happened to her face? Why didn''t she fix it? What woman doesn''t care about her appearance, especially when she had the natural beauty to begin with?


    As Zhong Shan pondered, the hemp-robed woman seemed to sense something. Her eerie eyes opened, revealing a look of puzzlement.


    She had a pair of purple pupils, incredibly beautiful. They weren''t some kind of magical technique but naturally purple eyes.


    Zhong Shan had never seen such pupils before. They were very beautiful.


    On her disfigured face, they stood out even more strikingly.


    "Who are you? Why are you sitting where the Supreme Sage fell? Move away!" a man on a nearby ind shouted.


    The hemp-robed woman nced at the man briefly before closing her eyes again, ignoring hismand.


    "Hey, I''m talking to you! Are you deaf? Move away!" the man shouted again, frustration creeping into his voice.


    The woman remained unmoved, continuing to sit calmly at the center of the sea.


    Seeing this, the man grew more enraged. He prepared to leap into the sea to confront her, but just as he was about to move, a powerful pressure emanated from the woman''s body, stopping him in his tracks.


    "What''s going on?" someone in the crowd murmured, feeling the immense pressure.


    "This woman... she''s not ordinary," another person whispered, eyes wide with astonishment.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed. This pressure was not something a regr cultivator could emit. The woman was clearly someone extraordinary. What was her purpose here? And why did she choose such a conspicuous spot?


    As these thoughts raced through Zhong Shan''s mind, the woman suddenly spoke, her voice cold and ethereal, cutting through the tension in the air.


    "Those who seek Nuwa''s relic, heed my words. Only those worthy shall proceed. The rest shall meet their end."


    The woman in the hemp robe spoke softly, "Leave now. This is not something you cany your hands on."


    Her voice sounded old, as if she deliberately made it that way to prevent others from recognizing her true voice.


    "Not something we cany our hands on? Tsk, tsk, even wrapped in that hemp robe, you have such a great figure. How about bing my Dao partner?" the man from earlier sneered.


    It was a form of provocation, trying to gauge the hemp-robed woman''s background through taunts. The others around remained silent, watching intently.


    "I already have a Dao partner. Don''t bother," the hemp-robed woman replied calmly.


    "You already have one? No problem. I love a challenge. Who is your Dao partner? I''ll show you that I''m a hundred times stronger than him!" the man continued to sneer.


    "You''re not worthy. No one in this world or the next canpare to him. Comparing yourself to him is an insult. I''ll spare you this once, but I don''t want to hear you nder him again, or you''ll be bringing misfortune upon yourself," the woman said.


    Throughout the exchange, the hemp-robed woman remained indifferent, a demeanor that made Zhong Shan frown slightly.


    "nder him? What if I do? Is he a coward? Or a��" the man''s words grew increasingly offensive.


    "I''ve already warned you," the hemp-robed woman said coldly.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    Suddenly, the man let out a horrific scream. Everyone turned to look, and almost all frowned deeply.


    The man''s hair was rapidly turning white, his once handsome face now covered in wrinkles, his body quickly withering. An awful stench emanated from him.


    He was undergoing the Five Decays of Heaven and Man?


    The term sprang to everyone''s mind. The Five Decays of Heaven and Man? How was that possible? Was his lifespan being consumed rapidly?


    Did the hemp-robed woman do this? How did she do it?


    In the blink of an eye, the man had aged into decrepitude.


    This shocking transformation sent chills through everyone. The now decrepit man fell to his knees, pleading with the woman.


    "Please spare me, senior! Please spare me!" he begged in terror.


    "You can nder anyone, even me, but you shouldn''t have ndered him. No one who nders him ever survives. I haven''t taken action for tens of thousands of years, but you brought this upon yourself," the hemp-robed woman said coldly.


    "Thud!"


    The man copsed and truly died of old age.


    This terrifying scene was something Zhong Shan had seen before. The y Bodhisattva had done something simr in the Land of Five Impurities in the East of the Pce of Yama, where exposure to the Impurity of Life would cause such aging. But the hemp-robed woman hadn''t used the Impurity of Life. So how had she caused the man to die of old age?


    Who was this woman? People looked at her with a mix of fear and suspicion, especially since none had seen her take any action.


    "May I ask the senior''s name?" Mr. Li asked solemnly.


    "Magu," the woman replied calmly.


    "What was that power just now? Feng Shui technique?" Su Afo asked, his brow twitching.


    "No, she is a Fate Maniptor," Princess Jiuwei said, somewhat unsure.


    "A Fate Maniptor? A practitioner of fate?" Su Afo was surprised.


    "Strictly speaking, it''s not exactly fate. It''s a practice of luck, but it is the closest to ''fate'' among the practices of luck," Princess Jiuwei exined, frowning.


    "Then how did that man die of old age? We didn''t see her do anything," Su Afo asked, puzzled.


    "This is a ''Fate Formation'' that she set up. We all entered the range of the Fate Formation. That''s how she could manipte the man''s life," Princess Jiuwei exined, taking a deep breath.


    Everyone exchanged nces.


    "Retreat!" Hong Xiao ordered.


    The army, along with Zhong Shan and the others, quickly retreated to the outskirts.


    A Fate Maniptor?

 Chapter 884: Magu鈥檚 Appearance

    <h4>Chapter 884: Magu''s Appearance</h4>


    Hong Xiao led the group in a swift retreat. Zhong Shan understood the terror of a "Fate Formation." In the past, in the small world, Zhong Xuan''s Fate Formation was invisible and formless, and even Kong Xuan had suffered greatly from it!


    A Fate Maniptor was an extremely rare existence. Practicing fortune, this was the pinnacle of fortune cultivation.


    As Zhong Shan and the others retreated, so did the other dozen or so factions. Everyone knew to ensure their safety first before discussing Nuwa''s relic. Magu''s previous disy had clearly had an effect.


    However, among the tens of thousands present, some were not afraid to die.


    Cheng Baiyi! Cheng Baiyi from Zixiao Daoist Temple dismissed his followers with a wave of his hand but remained on the ind, looking intently at Magu.


    "Why don''t you retreat?" Magu asked softly.


    "I don''t need to retreat, and you can''t do anything to me," Cheng Baiyi replied with a faint smile.


    "The Five-Colored Divine Stone? Yes, your jade pendant made from the Five-Colored Divine Stone can indeed resist the Life Loss Formation," Magu said calmly.


    The Five-Colored Divine Stone? Nearly everyone turned their gaze to the jade pendant on Cheng Baiyi''s waist. Was that the Five-Colored Divine Stone?


    Cheng Baiyi''s expression grew increasingly serious.


    "I once saw a portrait of a great person whose figure was identical to yours. I don''t want to make things difficult for you; I just want to see your face," Cheng Baiyi said earnestly.


    "A portrait? You''re basing this on a mere portrait?" Magu replied indifferently.


    "It''s not just that. There''s a hint of your aura in that portrait that is unforgettable," Cheng Baiyi said with certainty.


    "And what if you''re right?"


    "I must see your face!" Cheng Baiyi demanded, his expression extremely serious.


    "You''ve mistaken me for someone else. I advise you to leave like the others. If you persist, you''ll meet the same fate as the man who offended me earlier," Magu said coldly.


    "I can''t leave without solving this mystery," Cheng Baiyi said, taking a deep breath, as if Magu''s appearance was of great importance.


    Those who had retreated were confused. What was Cheng Baiyi doing?


    "Cheng Baiyi isn''t known for being impulsive. Why is he being so insistent over a woman he''s never met?" Su Afo wondered, frowning.


    "Who knows," Princess Jiuwei replied, shaking her head.


    Most people had some knowledge of Cheng Baiyi, and his unusual behavior now only made them more curious.


    Magu turned to Cheng Baiyi. Though her face was hidden, everyone sensed her seriousness.


    "Today, I must see your face. You can lift your hood yourself, or I can help you," Cheng Baiyi said sternly.


    "Impudent!" Magu said, her voice cold.


    Though her anger was mild, it was a stark contrast to her earlier calm demeanor.


    As Magu spoke, arge amount of energy gathered near Cheng Baiyi, and a strong white light shed. Suddenly, another figure appeared before Cheng Baiyi.


    This new figure radiated an immense pressure, making it clear to everyone present that a powerful entity had arrived. The surrounding air seemed to crackle with tension.


    The figure was d in a simr hemp robe, its features obscured. The presence of this new figure further intensified the already tense atmosphere.


    "Who dares to challenge the will of Magu?" the new figure''s voice echoed, carrying a weight that made those nearby feel an instinctive urge to retreat.


    Cheng Baiyi stood his ground, unyielding. "I am Cheng Baiyi of Zixiao Daoist Temple. I do not seek to challenge but to uncover the truth. Magu''s face is a mystery that I must solve."


    "Magu''s will is not to be questioned," the figure responded, stepping closer to Cheng Baiyi. "Leave now, or face the consequences."


    Cheng Baiyi''s resolve did not waver. "If seeing her face brings consequences, then I am prepared to face them."


    The tension in the air was palpable as everyone watched the standoff. The stakes had risen, and the mysterious figures'' true powers and intentions remained shrouded in uncertainty.


    Magu remained silent, observing the exchange. Her presence was a reminder of the power and mystery that surrounded her, and the potential danger of defying her warnings.


    As the new figure and Cheng Baiyi continued their confrontation, the crowd held their breath, anticipating the oue of this intense encounter.


    Another Cheng Baiyi appeared, or rather, a replica of him formed from energy.


    The replica looked exactly like Cheng Baiyi, with a murderous glint in its eyes, as if it intended to kill the original.


    "Heart Mirror Technique?" Cheng Baiyi raised an eyebrow.


    As he spoke, Cheng Baiyiunched a palm strike at the replica, which retaliated with the exact same move. In the air, two identical handprints appeared and collided.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a loud explosion, both handprints dissipated.


    "This isn''t the Heart Mirror Technique; this is real?" Cheng Baiyi''s face changed.


    "Indeed, it''s real. It''s called the ''Life Mirror Technique.'' It will be as strong as you are. Enjoy," Magu said calmly.


    Magu then sat down cross-legged.


    The replica of Cheng Baiyi immediately began attacking him fiercely. When Cheng Baiyi drew a sword, his replica did the same, producing an identical weapon.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The battlemenced with a fierce intensity. Cheng Baiyi and his replica shed violently. It became clear that every technique Cheng Baiyi knew, his replica also knew, making all of Cheng Baiyi''s secret moves ineffective. The fight escted from the sea to the sky, the two destroying inds below them and illuminating the sky with dazzling disys of power. The replica attacked Cheng Baiyi with lethal intent, every move aimed to kill.


    "This Life Mirror Technique is incredible! If I had this, I''d fear no one!" Su Afo eximed, his eyes gleaming with excitement.


    "Keep dreaming. Fate Maniptors are extremely rare," Princess Jiuwei said.


    "Rare, but they exist! Maybe I''ll be one someday," Su Afo persisted.


    "Let me tell you how rare they are. There''s a story of a great immortal who spent his entire life trying to meet a Fate Maniptor and never seeded. You''re lucky to encounter one here," Princess Jiuwei exined.


    "That rare?"


    "Of course. They represent the pinnacle of fortune cultivation and sometimes gain worldly authority merely through their knowledge. But the requirements to learn are incredibly high. You don''t have what it takes," Princess Jiuwei said bluntly.


    Ignoring their banter, Zhong Shan focused on Cheng Baiyi''s battle. The fight had moved high into the sky and was still raging fiercely. Thebatsted through the night and into the next day, the seventh of June, the day the Supreme Sage had fallen.


    As the sun rose, Cheng Baiyi grew increasingly agitated.


    "Everyone listen! A Fate Maniptor can only control one Fate Formation at a time. She''s now maintaining the Life Mirror Technique Formation, so the previous Life Loss Formation has stopped. Let''s all attack together; noon is approaching!" Cheng Baiyi shouted.


    But no one responded. Everyone preferred to continue watching.


    Cheng Baiyi felt a surge of frustration. He suspected that Magu would only stay until noon, after which she would leave.


    "Listen up! Anyone who removes Magu''s hood, regardless of who they are, will receive an ''ancient immortal artifact'' from the Zixiao Daoist Temple. I swear on my name and the name of Zixiao Daoist Temple!" Cheng Baiyi dered.


    His announcement caused a stir. An ancient immortal artifact?


    Cheng Baiyi''s and Zixiao Daoist Temple''s names were not taken lightly. Such a solemn reward meant they would honor their word. Offering an ancient immortal artifact just to unmask Magu?


    "Has Cheng Baiyi gone mad?" Su Afo eximed.


    The promise of such a rare and powerful reward created a buzz among the onlookers. Many began to reconsider their previous reluctance to act, weighing the risk against the potential reward.


    Seeing the shift in the crowd, Cheng Baiyi pressed on, "This opportunity is unprecedented! Removing Magu''s hood will not only reveal her true identity but will also grant you an ancient immortal artifact! Who among you is brave enough to seize this chance?"


    A few individuals started to step forward, driven by the allure of the reward. The atmosphere grew tense as more people considered the offer. Even those who had been hesitant were now weighing their options.


    Zhong Shan observed the scene, understanding the gravity of the situation. Cheng Baiyi''s desperation to uncover Magu''s identity had driven him to offer an extraordinary reward, one that could change the bnce of power among those present.


    Magu remained seated, her expression unchanged despite the growing interest in Cheng Baiyi''s offer. Her calm demeanor suggested she was either confident in her abilities or prepared for what was toe.


    As the tension reached its peak, a voice from the crowd called out, "I''ll do it!"


    A cultivator stepped forward, his eyes filled with determination. He began to approach Magu, the crowd parting to let him through.


    Zhong Shan watched closely, knowing that the next few moments could determine the course of their encounter with Magu and the fate of Nuwa''s relic.

 Chapter 885: Control

    <h4>Chapter 885: Control</h4>


    Cheng Baiyi had gone mad. At this moment, to catch a glimpse of Magu''s face, he was even willing to offer an ancient celestial artifact as a reward.


    An ancient celestial artifact! This was practically a mythic existence.


    Only a grand and affluent ce like the Zixiao Dojo could afford such a treasure. If it were a lone ancient celestial cultivator, they would undoubtedly guard such an artifact with utmost care.


    Indeed, the temptation of the ancient celestial artifact was too great, and three to five people stepped forward to rush in.


    Just lifting the woman''s hood would earn an ancient celestial artifact?


    With the initial three to five people taking the lead, many other forces hurried forward as well. The relics of Nuwa were like flowers in the mirror and moon in the water, elusive and distant, but the ancient celestial artifact was right before their eyes.


    They charged straight in, heading directly towards Magu.


    However, the moment they stepped into the life array, a figure suddenly appeared in front of them, a figure that looked exactly like themselves.


    Did everyone who entered the life array have a duplicate?


    "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    A fierce battle erupted instantly, each person fighting against their own duplicate.


    This part of the sea quickly descended into chaos, with sword energy and de energy filling the air, creating a dazzling disy of lights. Corpses began to fall slowly.


    Magu sat calmly at the center of the sea, stillposed and unperturbed.


    "Damn these destiny maniptors! How can we fight like this? Whoever enters gets duplicated!" Su Afo eximed with jealousy.


    "Ancient celestial artifacts aren''t so easily obtained. But I''m more curious about what Magu''s face looks like to drive Cheng Baiyi to such madness!" Princess Jiuwei frowned.


    Zhong Shan furrowed his brow. Through Hongluan''s irvoyance, he had already seen Magu''s face, but it was nowpletely disfigured. Why would she disfigure herself?


    Did she not want to be recognized? If she didn''t want to be recognized, she could have reshaped her face; cultivators could easily do that. But Magu didn''t. Was it intentional?


    Cheng Baiyi''s frenzied desire to see her face suggested that her fame must have been immense before she disfigured herself. Who was she?


    The battle continued, with participants increasing from just Cheng Baiyi to over a hundred thousand, each facing a duplicate of themselves.


    The sun slowly rose, nearing noon. As the time approached, Princess Jiuwei grew anxious.


    "Magu has been sitting in that spot the whole time. There must be something strange about it. It''s almost noon, we can''t miss this opportunity!" Princess Jiuwei said urgently.


    Zhong Shan gave Magu a deep look and then asked Hong Xiao, "General Hong Xiao, ording to past records, has anyone elsee here on the seventh of June?"


    "No, not every year, but at least in the records, this is the first time someone has guarded this ce on the seventh of June, and it''s also Magu''s first time here," Hong Xiao nodded.


    "Well, it seems Magu has calcted something, which is why she came here on the seventh of June this year. Her goal isn''t to collect Nuwa''s relics, but to prevent others from obtaining them! Why? Could it be..." Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Could it be what?" Su Afo asked, puzzled.


    "Could it be that she foresaw a change in Nuwa''s relics today and came specifically to prevent it single-handedly?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "A change in Nuwa''s relics? Then we definitely can''t give up now. We must push her aside quickly," Princess Jiuwei said anxiously.


    "Retreat? How can we retreat? With the emergence of this life array, it''s invincible!" Su Afo said helplessly.


    "Every technique and divine power has a way to be broken. The Life Mirror Technique is certainly not invincible. Don''t worry, someone will break it," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    As he spoke, Zhong Shan nodded, as if giving a signal to someone in the distance.


    In the distance, Mr. Corpse, who had remained still until now, nodded upon receiving the signal from Zhong Shan. He reached out and took out a bell.


    "ng~ ng~ ng~ ng~ ng~!"


    The clear, crisp sound of the bell echoed in all directions. Almost everyone felt a slight heaviness in their hearts.


    "Boom!" "Boom!"


    Suddenly, numerous pale corpses floated up from the sea around Mr. Corpse. The corpses emerged from the water and eerily hovered in midair, their eyes devoid of pupils,cking any sign of life, only exuding a thick aura of death.


    Many people watching this scene twitched with difort.


    "Dead? Dead people?" Su Afo eximed in shock.


    "Not quite," Hong Xiao said, raising an eyebrow.


    "What''s not right?" Su Afo asked, puzzled.


    "These dead people are those who died months ago while fighting for the Five-Colored Divine Stones. I recognize that man in red; he was on the periphery during the chaotic Blood Sea Star Sacrifice Formation and disappeared afterward. His soul was taken by the Blood Sea, but his body is being controlled by this man in ck?" Hong Xiao said in shock.


    "Controlling corpses?" Su Afo frowned.


    "In the underworld, it''smon for high-level zombies to control lower-level ones, but this is the first time I''ve seen a living person control corpses," Hong Xiao said, frowning.


    Nearly ten thousand celestial corpses stepped into the life array. The life array, however, did not react at all. There were no duplicates conjured by the Life Mirror Technique. Clearly, there is no perfect formation; every formation has its ws.


    As the dense aura of death spread, nearly ten thousand corpses approached, and Magu finally stood up, seemingly bing serious.


    "Corpse control?" Magu said with a hint of surprise.


    "I have no intention of making things difficult for you, Senior. Please step back," Mr. Corpse said in a deep voice from a distance.


    Magu shook her head. "A few corpses are not enough to trouble me."


    As she spoke, Magu pinched her fingers towards a group of corpses.


    "Boom!"


    Nearly ten corpses exploded.


    "The Fox n''s Annihtion Pinch?" Princess Jiuwei eximed in surprise.


    "The Fox n? Magu is using the Fox n''s technique?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    Princess Jiuwei widened her eyes but said nothing further.


    However, the ten celestial corpses that had been crushed didn''t end there. They suddenly turned into ck smoke, which quickly gathered and reformed into a single, unprecedented corpse. This corpse had red eyes, green hair, and two ferocious fangs, with an even more intense aura of death.


    "A hybrid corpse with abined fate? Aren''t you afraid of divine retribution?" For the first time, Magu showed a look of shock.


    "Divine retribution? I''m no saint; I don''t believe in that," Mr. Corpse said calmly.


    Indeed, the newly formed corpse seemed much stronger than the other celestial corpses, seemingly unkible.


    Even the powerful figures from various factions watching this eerie scene felt a chill.


    "Go ahead, I only have this many celestial corpses. If theybine into a single Celestial Corpse King and still cannot drive you away, I will leave immediately," Mr. Corpse said with utmost confidence.


    Indeed, arge number of celestial corpses surged forward again. After being scattered by Magu, they turned into ck gas and slowly gathered together. The number of corpses decreased, but each time they decreased, they became stronger, increasingly formidable!


    Magu seemed to realize that it was bing more troublesome. After giving the celestial corpses a deep look, she suddenly shook her head and said, "After all these years alone, I''ve almost forgotten how tomand others."


    Command others? Magu was alone; who could shemand?


    "Taiyi, get out here now!" Magu suddenly shouted coldly.


    This shout carried an air of superiority, the kind of dominance only a person in a high position would have.


    Taiyi? Was the person she wasmanding named Taiyi? Which Taiyi?


    While everyone was puzzled, the void not far away rippled slightly, and a man in a Nine-Dragon robe suddenly appeared.


    Seeing this man, almost everyone''s pupils contracted.


    Taiyi, the Saint King Taiyi?


    Wasn''t he the one who guarded the Five-Colored Divine Stones with the Jade Void Kunlun Formation on Ghost Ind? Didn''t he retreat after being injured by Gui Che''s blood? Why was he here now?


    Had he been hiding in the shadows all along?


    "Commanding others? You don''t mean me, do you?" The Saint King Taiyi sneered.


    "You will listen to me," Magu said tly.


    "Is that so? No one in this world canmand me," the Saint King Taiyi said in a deep voice.


    Zhong Shan had been watching Magu closely. At this moment, he noticed her lips moving slightly through her hood.


    In an instant, the Saint King Taiyi''s face changed dramatically.


    "Who are you?" the Saint King Taiyi asked in horror.


    "You don''t need to know who I am; you just need to know that I can decide your life and death," Magu said calmly.


    The onlookers were stunned. Deciding the life and death of the Saint King Taiyi? What a joke!


    "Impossible! How could you know my life''s fate? How could you know my ''lifeline''? No one knows, no one in this world knows!" The Saint King Taiyi, who had been calm andposed, was now sweating.


    "I don''t know about others, but I do know your ''lifeline''," Magu said calmly.


    "Who are you? Everyone who knew my lifeline died long ago. There couldn''t be any survivors. Who are you?" the Saint King Taiyi asked in terror.


    "Withdraw all the people and corpses from here. Now!" Magu demanded unceremoniously.


    At this moment, Magu shed her previous gentleness and became sharp and fierce.


    "Boom!"


    The Saint King Taiyi was powerful. In an instant, half of the people who had entered the life array were sted away, and many of Mr. Corpse''s celestial corpses were also destroyed.


    The Saint King Taiyi had intervened?


    This scene was beyond everyone''s expectations. As Zhong Shan shook his head, Mr. Corpse in the distance rang his bell again, causing arge number of celestial corpses to sink into the sea. Mr. Corpse himself also stepped away, disappearing from everyone''s sight in an instant.


    Mr. Corpse left, but many forces showed a hint of regret, clearly impressed by Mr. Corpse''s mysterious abilities.


    However, what shocked people more was Magu. Initially unknown, she had repeatedly surprised everyone, and now she was even controlling a dignified Saint King?


    The Saint King Taiyi, willingly allowing himself to be controlled, lifeline? What lifeline?

 Chapter 886: Bao Si

    <h4>Chapter 886: Bao Si</h4>


    The Saint King Taiyi made his move, and with a tremendous force, he drove all the strong fighters within the life array out.


    The domineering presence of the Saint King Taiyi, an unparalleled master in the Ancient Celestial Realm, made even the strongest of warriors seem insignificant before him. But this disy of power only heightened the mystery surrounding Magu in everyone''s hearts. Why would an ancient celestial being obey her? This was a saint king, after all.


    The reason Taiyi obeyed Magu was twofold. Firstly, Magu knew Taiyi''s lifeline, and having one''s lifeline known was like being held by a deadly grip. More importantly, Taiyi suddenly thought of someone��someone who filled him with deep fear.


    Remembering this person, the thoughts Taiyi had while hiding in the shadows vanished. The relic of Nuwa seemed more like a death warrant, prompting Taiyi to stay far away.


    At this moment, Taiyi''s greatest desire was to guard noon with Magu and then leave her presence as soon as possible.


    In the blink of an eye, Cheng Baiyi was the only one left in the life array.


    "Saint King Taiyi, who is she? Who is she?" Cheng Baiyi asked urgently.


    Taiyi looked at Cheng Baiyi, squinting his eyes slightly but not answering.


    "Is she the one from hundreds of thousands of years ago, the nation-toppling beauty...?" Cheng Baiyi persisted.


    "Shut up!" Taiyi roared.


    This roar shook the hearts of all the forces around, making everyone look at Taiyi in confusion.


    "Cheng Baiyi, for the sake of the Zixiao Sect, I won''t make things difficult for you, but you need to watch every word you say, every guess you make. Don''t speak recklessly. Once spoken, it''s not that I won''t spare you, but the whole world won''t tolerate you," Taiyi said in a deep voice.


    The whole world won''t tolerate you? People looked at Magu deeply. Was it really that serious? Just wanting to know her identity, and the world wouldn''t tolerate it?


    "I... I just want to..." Cheng Baiyi suddenly panicked.


    At this moment, Cheng Baiyi seemed to realize the significance of this woman''s identity. Magu? A woman who absolutely couldn''t be provoked?


    "Remember, forget everything you saw today. Otherwise, you know the consequences. The Zixiao Dojo will be reduced to ashes, and you will be hunted by saints. You should know what that means," Taiyi said solemnly.


    Hunted by saints?


    Upon hearing Taiyi''s words, everyone was stunned. Could it be true?


    Who exactly was Magu?


    Taking a deep look at Taiyi, Cheng Baiyi took a deep breath and said, "Thank you, Saint King Taiyi, for your guidance."


    "Mm!" Taiyi nodded.


    "People of the Zixiao Dojo, follow me back!" Cheng Baiyimanded.


    Although Cheng Baiyi hadn''t uncovered Magu''s identity, it seemed he had an answer in his heart. At this moment, Cheng Baiyi no longer wanted to meddle in this matter. He quickly left, taking the people of the Zixiao Dojo with him.


    Even the relics of Nuwa were no longer desired.


    Watching Cheng Baiyi lead the Zixiao Dojo members away, the other forces frowned deeply.


    It was as if a shroud of mystery enveloped them, leaving everyone feeling extremely oppressed.


    Zhong Shan was certain that Magu must have had an immense reputation in the past, a fame so great it could rival that of a saint.


    Who was she really?


    "You two, there''s no need to hide any longer. Though you are also ancient celestials, I sensed your presence when I arrived. With me here, no one can take another step forward!" Taiyi said, taking out the Nine-Dragon Divine Fire Cover.


    From beginning to end, the Saint King Taiyi never looked at Magu again. He regretteding to this sea region. Given another chance, he would nevere here. Now, he could only hope to get through noon and then stay far away from Magu.


    Upon Taiyi''s shout, two spaces shed slightly, and two men appeared.


    The two were unfamiliar to Zhong Shan, but he didn''t recognize them.


    "Saint King Taiyi, who is this Magu?" one of them asked.


    "It''s not your ce to ask, nor is it your right to know!" Taiyi said sternly.


    The scene reached a stalemate. Although many forces were present, there were only a few top-tier experts. With the Saint King Taiyi blocking the way, no one dared to make a move, especially with Magu sitting there calmly.


    After giving orders to Taiyi, Magu stood there with a serene demeanor.


    "Zhong Shan, what do we do now? Even the Saint King Taiyi hase out!" Princess Jiuwei said, frowning.


    Zhong Shan furrowed his brow and asked, "Did Senior Su Daji say that only you could enter the ce set up by Nuwa? Communicate this to me."


    Princess Jiuwei thought for a moment and said, "Yes, only the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox can open the ''Star Hall.'' And I am thest Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox in this world!"


    "Thest Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox?" Zhong Shan asked in puzzlement.


    "Yes, the Fox n hasn''t had a Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox leader for hundreds of thousands of years. I can roam freely in Taichu because of my status. In the entire Qingqiu, aside from the Saint King, I hold the highest position!" Princess Jiuwei confirmed.


    "Is it that difficult for a Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox to appear?"


    "It''s not difficult. It''s just that at some point, the lineage was suddenly broken. Before that, every generation had a sessor!" Princess Jiuwei exined.


    "Who was the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox in that broken generation?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "In that generation, the Fox n was at its most glorious. The supreme leader of the Fox n at that time was the most beautiful woman in the world, Bao Si, the queen of King You of Zhou! But after the copse of the Zhou Dynasty and Bao Si''s fall, the Fox n declined. The Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox lineage was also broken," Princess Jiuwei said.


    "Su Daji and Bao Si, the Fox n has certainly produced many famous figures!" Zhong Shan sighed. These names were well-known even on Earth.


    "It''s almost noon!" Princess Jiuwei said worriedly.


    "You said the Star Hall left by Nuwa, can saints enter it?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Saints? They probably can, but Senior Su Daji said that saints dare not step inside," Princess Jiuwei replied.


    "Dare not? Is there a ce in this world that saints dare not go?" Zhong Shan was astonished.


    "That''s why I said the Star Hall is a must-visit!" Princess Jiuwei said anxiously.


    Zhong Shan looked at Princess Jiuwei and then at Magu in the distance. After thinking for a moment, he said, "Maybe, just maybe, Magu will let us go there soon!"


    "How is that possible?" Princess Jiuwei didn''t believe it.


    At that moment, Magu suddenly looked up.


    "The tree wishes to be still, but the wind does not cease. There are always schemers who want to throw the world into chaos. Even if chaos ensues, I won''t let you be the protagonists!" Magu said calmly.


    The Saint King Taiyi frowned slightly. Although puzzled, he did not dare to ask.


    Magu lowered her head, looking around at everyone, and finally, her dark hood turned towards Zhong Shan.


    "The Nine-Tails of Qingqiu?" Magu asked calmly.


    "Swish!" All eyes turned to them.


    Princess Jiuwei was taken aback. Could Zhong Shan also predict the future?


    "Yes, greetings, Senior!" Princess Jiuwei said respectfully.


    "Choose two people to protect you and go to the Star Hall!" Magu said.


    There was an uproar all around. Was this real? People couldn''t wrap their heads around it. Princess Jiuwei? The Nine-Tailed Princess of the Taichu Sacred Court? How did she get so lucky?


    At this moment, Princess Jiuwei seemed overwhelmed with joy, her face stiff with excitement.


    "Whoosh!" A figure suddenly flew in from the distance.


    "Congrattions, Princess Jiuwei!" Mr. Li said as he arrived.


    It was clear Mr. Li wanted to join Princess Jiuwei on her journey. Princess Jiuwei quickly regained herposure, but the joy on her face was unmistakable.


    "Zhong Shan, Afo,e with me!" Princess Jiuwei said excitedly.


    Mr. Li smiled wryly. It seemed Princess Jiuwei truly trusted Zhong Shanpletely, though it was unclear what the Saint King thought.


    Under the envious gazes of many, the three of them flew towards the life array.


    "Stand in this position," Magu said, making room for them.


    "Yes, Senior!"


    The three stood on the surface of the sea.


    "Fly upwards!" Magu instructed.


    Though slightly puzzled, the three followed hermand and flew upwards.


    "Whoosh!" They disappeared from everyone''s sight in an instant.


    Their sudden and mysterious disappearance left everyone bewildered. Only a few ancient celestials vaguely saw a streak of light shooting upwards.


    As they flew, the three noticed arge number of streaming lights surrounding them. It felt as if they were in a passageway, rapidly ascending towards the heavens.


    It was so fast that they couldn''t even gauge the speed.


    "This is the work of a saint! It must be aw created by Nuwa to quickly transport us to a specific location in the sky��the Star Hall left by Nuwa," Princess Jiuwei exined.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan and Su Afo nodded.


    "By the way, Zhong Shan, how did you know Magu would let us go to the Star Hall?" Princess Jiuwei asked, puzzled.


    "Magu sensed a major change today, which is why she came to guard this entrance. If something was destined to open today and only you could open it, you naturally had the right to go. Moreover, didn''t you notice that the forces just now were too sparse?" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Sparse?"


    "Yes, there were too few ancient celestials!" Zhong Shan confirmed.


    "That''s true. Cheng Baiyi came, but why didn''t the leader of the Zixiao Secte? And Mr. Li was there, but the Saint King wasn''t?" Su Afo nodded.


    "Because these people must have received some information and went directly to the destination! They didn''t use this passage but flew to the stars with their physical bodies over the past few months," Zhong Shan said confidently.


    "How do you know?" Princess Jiuwei asked.


    "Magu mentioned it earlier," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Right, Magu did say something about schemers wanting to throw the world into chaos. Now it makes sense," Princess Jiuwei nodded.


    "There''s one more thing," Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "What is it?"


    "Magu might be from the Fox n," Zhong Shan said.


    "Fox n? Why? Just because she used a Fox n technique earlier? Other people can mimic that too!" Princess Jiuwei asked, puzzled.


    Zhong Shan shook his head and didn''t continue. Some things can be mimicked, but ''instinct'' cannot be. An unconscious action is the result of countless years of umtion. Besides, in Magu''s situation, there was no need for her to imitate anyone.

 Chapter 887: Star Hall

    <h4>Chapter 887: Star Hall</h4>


    On the seventh of June, at the hour of Si, the Saint King Taiyi had already reached the starry sky.


    Apanying him was the Chess Saint Chimei of Taichu.


    The scorching sun hung high, and the surroundings were filled with dazzling light. Visibility wasn''t very high, but for ancient celestials, this wasn''t an issue.


    "Saint King, do you think the three princes of Taichu wille?" Chimei Chess Saint asked.


    "Regarding the saint''s relic of the Fox n, they shoulde," the Saint King Taiyi replied.


    "Hopefully. Over the years, it has exceeded my expectations that you have managed to keep the three princes united and maintained Taichu," Chimei Chess Saint sighed slightly.


    "Yes, the three princes of Taichu were with my father when he established the Taichu Sacred Court. When my father fell, he passed the legacy to me, doing it in such a secretive manner that it fooled the entire world. But the three princes must have guessed it," Saint King Taiyi sighed slightly.


    "The old Saint King was a man of great wisdom and strategy. There is something that has puzzled me for years. Saint King, please do not be offended," Chimei Chess Saint said, frowning.


    "Speak freely."


    "Your younger brother, Mr. Li, is exceptionally intelligent. If the old Saint King had passed the throne to Mr. Li, it would have made sense. Why did he keep Mr. Li hidden from the beginning and only summon him back to assist you when passing the legacy to you? By rights, Saint King, you are a woman; passing the throne to Mr. Li would have been more understandable. Why did he pass it to you?" Chimei Chess Saint asked, frowning.


    "My father was a man of great wisdom, and there were many considerations that made him do this. Moreover, our goal in Taichu is not merely to maintain a sacred court; we have our mission. Do not forget that," Saint King Taiyi said solemnly.


    "A mission? Can that mission still be achieved?" Chimei Chess Saint showed a bitter smile.


    "When your master''s master deciphered the ''Heavenly Cmity Chess Game,'' it began. Generations have strived for that goal and mission, exhausting their energy and lifespan but never giving up. Will you give up?" Saint King Taiyi said solemnly.


    "Never, I will never give up!" Chimei Chess Saint replied firmly.


    "Yes, generations have never forgotten. I believe that one day we willplete our mission, and then I cany down this heavy burden," Saint King Taiyi said confidently.


    "Yes!"


    "The calctions from Xue Mei Mountain indicated the specific location is here. I don''t know how many people he told," Saint King Taiyi said, frowning.


    "Old Ancestor Xue Mei calcted that the Star Hall is in this star region. Does he have any ulterior motives?" Chimei Chess Saint asked, frowning.


    "Ulterior motives are certain. The morous appearance of Old Ancestor Xue Mei is just a facade. Would he tell us the location for no reason? The more morous he looks, the bigger his ns. There must be something in the Star Hall that he is plotting," Saint King Taiyi said.


    "A saint''s treasure?"


    "No, what Old Ancestor Xue Mei wants is more than a saint''s treasure," Saint King Taiyi shook his head.


    "Then what is it?"


    "The position of a saint!" Saint King Taiyi confirmed.


    "The position of a saint? Him?" Chimei Chess Saint''s pupils shrank.


    "Precisely him. But since he has informed us of the Star Hall''s location, he definitely won''te this time. No need to worry about him," Saint King Taiyi said.


    "Why?" Chimei Chess Saint asked.


    "Because this news has undoubtedly reached the ears of some saints. I am certain that he doesn''t want to encounter any saints," the Saint King Taiyi affirmed.


    "The old Saint King was indeed wise. People say that Mr. Li is exceptionally intelligent, but it seems you are even more so. Chimei feels fortunate for Qingqiu," Chimei Chess Saint said.


    At that moment, the movements of the stars in the starry region seemed to slow down, and the entire space felt as if it was being squeezed.


    "Noon has arrived!" Chimei Chess Saint eximed.


    The power of the starry sky gathered at the center of this star region, where a massive amount of energypressed into an empty space. Though there was nothing there, the immense ster energypressed the space itself.


    The space of the Great Thousand World began to show folds, with ripples of spatial waves continuously vibrating.


    "Boom!"


    With a thunderous roar, a massive ck hole was created by thepressed space.


    From the ck hole, a pce slowly emerged. The enormous pce perfectly filled the ck hole, creating a fascinating sight.


    "The Star Hall has emerged? We''re so close to it!" Chimei Chess Saint said joyfully.


    Chimei Chess Saint and the Saint King Taiyi quickly sped towards the pce.


    Although they were close, the vastness of the star region meant that even at their maximum speed, it would still take time to reach it.


    Besides the Saint King Taiyi, other powerful figures had also witnessed this event. Like the Saint King Taiyi, many ancient celestials had received the message from Old Ancestor Xue Mei.


    Nuwa''s relics had drawn numerous schemers.


    A multitude of powerful beings rushed towards the gigantic pce.


    However, three individuals were faster than these ancient celestials: Zhong Shan, Princess Jiuwei, and Su Afo, who hade up from the sea below.


    Using the passage left by Nuwa, the three approached the pce at the fastest speed.


    Before long, they felt the streaming light slow down, and the scenery around them suddenly changed.


    They were no longer flying but instead found themselves in front of a colossal pce, towering tens of thousands of feet high. Above, a massive que read "Star Hall."


    There was no air around, and the gravity was minimal, but this was not an issue for Zhong Shan and the others.


    "We''ve arrived, the Star Hall!" Su Afo said excitedly.


    Su Afo knew that following Zhong Shan would be extraordinary, but he hadn''t expected it to be this thrilling, and now he was so close to Nuwa''s relics.


    "Quick, open it. Others areing soon!" Zhong Shan urged.


    "Right!" Princess Jiuwei nodded.


    She approached the gate and ced her palm on it, closing her eyes as a surge of nine-colored energy emanated from her.


    Within the nine-colored energy, Zhong Shan could faintly see nine enormous tails emerging from behind Princess Jiuwei, looking exceptionally beautiful.


    "Boom!"


    With a thunderous sound, the gate slowly opened.


    "Let''s go!" Princess Jiuwei shouted excitedly and stepped inside.


    Zhong Shan and Su Afo exchanged nces and followed Princess Jiuwei into the dark hall. The three stepped into the Star Hall, ncing back at the ancient celestials flying towards them from the distance.


    Someone had entered? And it was two heavenly immortals and a grand immortal? The ancient celestials were perplexed.


    "Saint King, it''s Princess Jiuwei. Princess Jiuwei has entered!" Chimei Chess Saint eximed excitedly.


    "Hmm, block the entrance. No one except those from Qingqiu is allowed to enter!" the Saint King Taiyimanded.


    "Understood!"


    "Whoosh!"


    The Saint King Taiyi and Chimei Chess Saint were indeed the first ancient celestials to reach the entrance of the Star Hall. They stopped abruptly, standing guard.


    "Whoosh!"


    The second group arrived: the leader of the Zixiao Sect.


    "Master Zixiao, please hold. This is an artifact left by Nuwa for Qingqiu. Please do not touch it," the Saint King Taiyi said sternly.


    The Zixiao Sect leader stared at the Saint King Taiyi, his expression shifting.


    At that moment, two more ancient celestials flew in. Their goal was clear: they wanted to enter the Star Hall. With the Zixiao Sect leader, there were now three ancient celestials trying to enter, while only the Saint King Taiyi and Chimei Chess Saint were blocking the way.


    "Saint King Taiyi, move aside. You can''t stop us. Those enlightened by Old Ancestor Xue Mei toe to this star region are not just a few. We three are not afraid of you, but we''re concerned that if we fight, others might take advantage," one of the ancient celestials said.


    "Whoosh whoosh whoosh!"


    A group of strong figures suddenly arrived. Among them, four stood beside the Saint King Taiyi.


    "Greetings, Saint King!" they said in unison.


    Among the four was Sima Qing.


    "Sima Qing? I didn''t expect you to reach the Ancient Celestial Realm. Congrattions!" the Saint King Taiyi said.


    "Your praise is too generous, Saint King. I just broke through a few days ago, and it''s still unstable," Sima Qing replied promptly.


    The Taichu Sacred Court''s side suddenly increased to six people, matching the six ancient celestials opposing them. Another stalemate ensued.


    Sima Qing, seeing the situation, realized that a fight wouldn''t break out immediately. He dashed into the Star Hall.


    Everyone''s eyebrows raised.


    "Saint King, forgive him. My son is spoiled and impulsive, but since he is from Qingqiu, it should be fine. Perhaps he can even assist Princess Jiuwei inside," said a man in green robes, shaking his head and smiling.


    It was clear that this man was the head of the Sima family and one of the three princes of Taichu.


    "Six ancient celestials from Taichu? How powerful. However, those who came to this star region are not just us. Let''s see how long you can hold them off," another ancient celestial said.


    At this point, the leader of the Zixiao Sect looked deeply at Sima Qing''s departing figure and suddenly smiled.


    "Not long ago, someone from Taichu saved a saintess from my Zixiao Sect. I haven''t had the chance to express my gratitude. This time, I will assist the Taichu Sacred Court in defending against external threats and guard the Star Hall together," the leader of the Zixiao Sect announced.


    "Uh?"


    The leader''s sudden change of stance stunned everyone, making their eyebrows twitch.


    Sure enough, several more ancient celestials flew in from the distance, heading straight for the Star Hall. The tension outside the Star Hall intensified, and a major battle was on the verge of breaking out.


    Inside the Star Hall.


    Zhong Shan, Princess Jiuwei, and Su Afo entered the hall and looked around.


    The hall was pitch ck, resembling a small, dead space simr to the ''Longevity Realm.'' However, this space was unique, filled with numerous smalls.


    Thes weren''trge, mostly around the size of Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Princess Jiuwei held her head.


    "I can feel it. Over there, follow me!" Princess Jiuwei called out.


    She led them towards a small green in the distance.


    Zhong Shan and Su Afo followed closely, quickly arriving at a lush, green. The surroundings seemed to form arge formation, protecting this one.


    Princess Jiuwei swiftly found a za, with a smooth mountain face to the north.


    The three stood on the za, gazing solemnly at the mountain face. More specifically, they were looking at the words left by Nuwa.

 Chapter 888: Eternal Prosperity, Fox Howling Across the World

    <h4>Chapter 888: Eternal Prosperity, Fox Howling Across the World</h4>


    The three of them stood on the za, gazing solemnly at the mountain face and the words left by Nuwa. Was this the treasure Nuwa had left for the Qingqiu Fox n?


    Looking at the few lines of text, the three of them fell silent.


    "Defy the Heavens, Seize Destiny! The Great Zhou and the Seven Saints defy the Mandate of Heaven! Assist Heaven''s Will, destroy Yin Shang! Follow Heaven''s Will to strengthen Zhou, conceal Heaven''s secrets by defying fate, Heaven''s fury and human resentment, a failed effort!"


    This was the first line. From this, they sensed an immense and solemn grandeur, a vast destion. Heaven''s fury and human resentment! Destroying Yin Shang was only the first step; the second was to assist the Great Zhou to achieve a smokescreen effect, and then counter the Mandate of Heaven with King You of Zhou? Even if the saints failed, their actions would be eternally remembered.


    They moved on to the second line.


    "The defeat of the Seven Saints, great sorrow! Thousands of years of scheming turned to naught, Heaven''s wrath is insurmountable, the saints will fall, resentment, resentment, resentment!"


    This line was filled with boundless unwillingness, infinite regret! Thousands of years of scheming turned to nothing? A failed effort, and the saints with their endless lifespans were about to fall! Resentment, resentment, resentment!


    With a sense of tragic determination, they read the third line.


    "The Mandate of Heaven cannot be reversed? Must I sit and wait for death? I am unwilling, I vow to defy the Mandate of Heaven with the remainder of my life, Heaven cannot be deceived, nor can men!"


    This was the third line, reflecting Nuwa''s change of heart. Knowing she was about to die, she decided to rebel against Heaven?


    "The Seven Saints will fall, I am the third to fall, yet I refuse to prolong my life for a few more years. I ignite my life force, perish body and soul, the first to fall, using it to ultimately reverse the Mandate of Heaven. Fox n''s Daji and Baosi followed me in defying Heaven. Under Heaven''s fury, in two hundred thousand years, the Fox n will be extinct. I am unwilling, I change this fate, hoping my life force can protect the Fox n from extinction!"


    This was the fourth line. Upon seeing this, the three felt a tightness in their hearts, a sudden realization. After Nuwa''s fall, ording to the Mandate of Heaven, the Fox n was supposed to go extinct in two hundred thousand years?


    But it''s been more than two hundred thousand years, more like six or seven hundred thousand years, hasn''t it? The Fox n, although not very strong, still exists.


    What does this mean? Nuwa sessfully altered the Mandate of Heaven for the Fox n?


    Can the Mandate of Heaven be reversed? Using a saint''s life force, she ultimately changed the Mandate of Heaven, preventing the Fox n''s extinction?


    The three of them realized that if this news were to spread, it would undoubtedly cause an uproar in the world. Zhong Shan also understood that once the news got out, the three of them would be doomed.


    "Only the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox can open the Star Hall. If you see this stele, my heart is greatlyforted. Although faced with nine deaths, I have no regrets! The Fox n''s fate has been altered. After the great turmoil, there will be great prosperity, eternal prosperity, the Fox howling across the world!"


    Eternal prosperity, the Fox howling across the world? Seeing thesest two lines, the three of them were filled with changing emotions. The Fox howling across the world?


    This was Nuwa''s great gift to the Fox n, an iparable treasure. Compared to this, even a saint''s treasure was insignificant. Nuwa bestowed upon them a change in fate, a fate of prosperity for the Fox n.


    With this fate, all other treasures were irrelevant. Even if there were a saint''s treasure, could you protect it? And for how long?


    "Zhong Shan, you were right. This is a gift meant only for the Fox n. No other race can take it," Princess Jiuwei said with a sigh.


    Having received this gift, Princess Jiuwei was deeply satisfied.


    "Whoosh!"


    At that moment, another figure rushed towards them. It was Sima Qing!


    Sima Qing arrived, nced briefly at Zhong Shan and the others, and then quickly turned his gaze to the stone wall.


    Reading Nuwa''s message, Sima Qing''s expression also kept changing. Reverse the Mandate of Heaven? Can the Mandate of Heaven be reversed?


    Sima Qing was clearly shocked by the revtion. His eyes widened, and his heart was in turmoil.


    None of the three had a friendly expression towards Sima Qing.


    Outside the Star Hall, a fierce battle had erupted, with nearly twenty ancient celestials gathered. The battle was spectacr, with the Zixiao Sect leader indeed siding with the Taichu Sacred Court, making it six against fourteen.


    Even though the Taichu Sacred Court possessed ancient celestial artifacts, they were still only six, and they were on the verge of being overwhelmed.


    Suddenly, a thunderous noise echoed in the starry sky.


    "Boom!"


    Three powerful beams of light descended from the heavens.


    Seeing these beams, the expressions of the Taichu Sacred Court members changed. These beams were all too familiar; they had appeared over the Ghost Ind sea not long ago.


    Saints were descending?


    Two beams enveloped two ancient celestials, while the third beam shot directly into the Star Hall.


    Inside the Star Hall, a beam of light descended from the sky.


    Zhong Shan, who was intently watching Sima Qing, suddenly felt a tightening all over his body. The pink lotus of Hongluan turned blue, indicating great misfortune.


    A tremendous pressure descended from the heavens, seemingly directed at Zhong Shan.


    His face changed, and a small seal appeared in his right fist, the Fangtian Jade Seal.


    Almost instinctively, Zhong Shan, not knowing why he trusted the Fangtian Jade Seal so much, held it tightly. The red pearl on the seal emitted a faint seven-colored glow into his palm, and golden light radiated from Zhong Shan''s body.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan staggered as if he had been struck, but the sensation of being locked on disappeared. He was free.


    "Whoosh!"


    Princess Jiuwei suddenly emitted a nine-colored glow as well, reacting instinctively. Nine tails, seemingly both real and illusory, wrapped around her.


    "Boom!"


    Princess Jiuwei also staggered.


    At this moment, the white beam from the skypletely descended, not on Su Afo, but on Sima Qing.


    The white light descended, attempting to seize Sima Qing''s body?


    Zhong Shan felt a wave of relief wash over him. He realized that the white light had originally targeted him. When it was deflected, it aimed for Princess Jiuwei but was also deflected. Finally, it fell on Sima Qing.


    As the white light faded, Sima Qing slumped.


    Zhong Shan''s heart pounded. A saint? Was a saint descending?


    "Bang!"


    Sima Qing suddenly stood up straight, the saint''s possession sessful.


    Zhong Shan could sense that this was one of the saints who had appeared at the Ghost Ind sea not long ago. The aura was unforgettable.


    It was an aura thatmanded submission with a mere wave of a sleeve.


    Was this the aura of a saint?


    The saint scanned Zhong Shan and the others with a nce that made their hearts race, making them feel unworthy to meet his gaze.


    The saint turned to look at the exit of the Star Hall, frowning slightly, as if waiting for something that was noting. Finally, he turned his attention to the stone wall.


    As the saint read the message left by Nuwa, his pupils contracted sharply, and his frown deepened. The previous calm demeanor seemed to falter for a moment.


    Even for a saint, the revtion of Nuwa reversing the Mandate of Heaven was immensely shocking, inducing a sense of horror.


    Under the oppressive saintly aura, Zhong Shan and the others found it hard to speak. The saint was preupied with the stone wall, but Zhong Shan felt an increasing sense of danger.


    Would this saint, upon reading the message, kill them to protect the Mandate of Heaven? It was very likely, extremely likely.


    If a saint decided to kill them, escape would be impossible. What should they do?


    The saint, seemingly lost in thought, didn''t notice Zhong Shan and the others for the moment.


    Suddenly, the saint made a move. With a slight pinch of his fingers, the void trembled, and a vast amount of light burst forth from that space.


    The light flickered rapidly, and after half an incense stick of time, it stopped, revealing a figure.


    The figure was somewhat familiar to Zhong Shan. It resembled Taishang Laojun, who had gone to Lingxiao Heavenly Court with Haotian at the beginning of creation andter exchanged the Jade Purity Bottle for the Taiji Diagram.


    The appearance was very simr, but the aura was different. This figure exuded a divine and invible presence.


    "Taishang? So you were here!" the saint frowned.


    Taishang? Thest saint to fall in Ai Sea? How simr he looked to Taishang Laojun!


    The figure, which was somewhat ethereal, also gazed at the stone wall, shaking its head and sighing slightly.


    "Feng Lixi, I have visited your tomb. Those guarding it are very loyal. But you shouldn''t have exhausted your life force to reverse the Mandate of Heaven. It was all in vain. The fall of the Seven Saints was predestined by Heaven. Powerless to fight against Heaven, we should have epted our fate. This reversal, who knows if it is a blessing or a curse? So many things have changed. As thest of the Seven Saints to fall, dying anywhere is still dying. I decided to stay and apany you," Taishang Saint said with a sense of sorrow.


    Taishang Saint? He came to pay respects to Nuwa?


    Feng Lixi? Zhong Shan''s pupils shrank. Feng Lixi? Was that Nuwa''s name? The tomb in Fengzhong Territory, Feng Lixi''s tomb? Taishang Saint said he stayed with Nuwa, meaning he died in this sea region, and Nuwa was buried in Fengzhong Territory?


    No wonder it''s called Fengzhong. No wonder!


    The image of Taishang Saint flickered and disappeared.


    Zhong Shan realized the gravity of the situation. The saint now knew everything. Would he now deal with Zhong Shan, Princess Jiuwei, and Su Afo?


    Indeed, the saint''s expression darkened. He seemed displeased by Nuwa''s message and Taishang''s words but had seen them nheless.


    Though unhappy, the saint appeared methodical in his approach to dealing with the three.


    Slowly, the saint''s gaze turned towards them. Zhong Shan, not seeing his eyes directly, still felt a sense of impending doom.


    He intends to kill us? No, he''s hesitating, but the thought of silencing us is prevailing.


    Zhong Shan''s heart raced. He couldn''t let himself be killed, absolutely not. This resolve seemed to transmit to the Fangtian Jade Seal in his palm. The small red bead on the seal suddenly emitted a golden light into Zhong Shan''s body.


    With this support, Zhong Shan felt the pressure ease significantly.


    His head slowly lifted.


    Golden light radiated from Zhong Shan, a majestic aura spreading in all directions. He raised his head, meeting the saint''s gaze directly.

 Chapter 889: Zhong Shan Faces the Saint

    <h4>Chapter 889: Zhong Shan Faces the Saint</h4>


    Zhong Shan stood bathed in radiant golden light, a formidable aura emanating in all directions. He lifted his head, his gaze meeting that of the Saint before him.


    This was not a feat aplished by mere courage. The presence of a Saint was something no ordinary being could withstand, akin to defying the will of the heavens themselves.


    With his head held high, Zhong Shan looked at the Saint, who showed a hint of surprise. It was unexpected for someone to meet his gaze so directly.


    "Zhong Shan of Great Zheng, congrattions to the Saint on achieving another monumental feat!" Zhong Shanughed heartily.


    "A monumental feat?" The Saint''s gaze grew colder as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    "In ancient times, the Great Zhou allied with the Seven Saints, defying fate and seizing destiny. Today, you, revered Saint, walk the same path, seeking the creation of heaven and earth. How could I not offer my congrattions?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    Zhong Shan''s words were calm, yet each one pierced the heart!


    The Seven Saints'' defiance had led to theirplete demise, even implicating two innocent Saints in the process. Clearly, the wrath of the heavens was inescapable. Now, defying the heavens had be a taboo. Which Saint would dare to alter the course of fate now, knowing it would incur the heavens'' roaring fury?


    "Are you not afraid of death?" The Saint asked lightly.


    "Afraid? Who wouldn''t be? But what does it matter? Do you intend to kill me?" Zhong Shan spoke with increasingposure.


    Behind him, Princess Nine-Tails frowned deeply, while Su Afo was already stunned. Was Zhong Shan truly fearless, even speaking to a Saint in such a manner?


    "I have considered it," the Saint admitted without hesitation.


    "That is only natural. Killing us serves multiple purposes: silencing us, demonstrating your resolve, making a firm decision, and erasing all evidence. It''s a quadruple benefit, a human instinct!" Zhong Shan remarked.


    Zhong Shan was essentially using the Saint of plotting against the heavens, listing so-called ''evidence'' to support his im, framing it as logical and factual.


    Perhaps only Zhong Shan dared to frame a Saint in this manner, and the Saint could not refute it.


    For a moment, the Saint''s usually untroubled heart was strangely stirred. In theory, nothing should disturb a Saint, not even the appearance of Gui Che had caused more than a frown. After all, the greatest power in the world was that of the Saints; no force behind Gui Che could surpass that of a Saint.


    A Saint represented the heavenly way. What could disturb a Saint? Only something greater than the Saint: the way of the heavens.


    Zhong Shan was seizing this very point!


    Defying the heavens was like a country''s emperor forbidding rebellion. Tens of thousands of years ago, the Seven Saints had set the ultimate example. No matter how powerful they were, the heavens had obliterated them without hesitation, even causing two uninvolved Saints to fall from grace.


    The Saint looked at Zhong Shan with a grave expression, his killing intent intensifying.


    "Do you know why the surroundings form a grand array that does not obstruct anyone?" the Saint asked calmly.


    "Please enlighten me!" Zhong Shan sensed something amiss.


    "To obscure the heavenly secrets. Everything here is outside the purview of the heavens. Even if I kill you, the heavens will remain unaware," the Saint said calmly.


    Behind him, Su Afo and Princess Nine-Tails were shocked, filled with worry. What would they do now that Zhong Shan''s trump card seemed useless?


    "Hahaha, indeed, killing us would go unnoticed by the heavens. However, the people outside the Celestial Hall know. If I were you, I would kill everyone outside to avoid suspicion. Oh, and that wouldn''t be enough. Many in the Ao Lai Sea below saw use up here. To be thorough, you should kill them too. And, considering they have rtives and friends who know they came to Ao Lai Sea, you should eliminate them as well. And their friends and rtives'' friends and rtives, to bepletely thorough!" Zhong Shan spoke with unshakable calm.


    Su Afo, standing behind, was speechless. Zhong Shan was truly incredible. How could he spout such twisted logic? Kill everyone? That would defeat the whole purpose of silencing them, making the entire world aware instead.


    The Saint looked coldly at Zhong Shan and said indifferently, "Do you really think I don''t dare to kill you?"


    "You don''t dare," Zhong Shan suddenly smiled.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan faced the Saint with a smile, as if he had reached the same lofty height. He appeared as a figure at the pinnacle of the world, facing the peak without any fear.


    This demeanor, seen by the two behind him, was nothing short of worship.


    As Zhong Shan grew increasinglyposed, the surrounding killing intent weakened.


    Zhong Shan knew he had seeded. His greatest strength was not his power but his ability to manipte his opponent. A person who can control their adversary is truly invincible.


    Although Zhong Shan hadn''tpletely controlled the Saint, he had managed to ce himself on equal footing through a few subtle words.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan still couldn''t guarantee that the Saint wouldn''t make a move, but he had made every effort to continually shift the Saint''s thoughts. From the beginning, Zhong Shan had sensed the Saint''s hesitation, and he was merely pushing the bnce in the Saint''s heart.


    "Why wouldn''t I dare?" the Saint asked indifferently.


    "From what I know, the greatest force in this world is not you, the Saint, but the way of the heavens. Saints are immortal, their lifespan infinite, supposed to be the most carefree and powerful beings in existence, without worries. So why did the Seven Saints defy the heavens in the past? Was it merely because they were bored after living so long? If one was bored, what about the other six? They couldn''t all be bored together!" Zhong Shan spoke in a deep voice.


    "So what?"


    "There is a saying among mortals: ''Every family has its troubles.'' I believe everyone has worries. As long as they are living beings, they will have dissatisfaction and will never be content with solitude. I am not in a high position and do not understand the affairs of Saints, but I do know one thing. The defiance of the Seven Saints in the past must have been driven by some issue, a confrontation with the way of the heavens due to some problem. This problem is likely a ''knot'' for every Saint. An unresolved ''knot''," Zhong Shan spected.


    "Go on," the Saint said gravely.


    "The outbreak of this ''knot'' led to the fall of the Seven Saints. The way of the heavens could not be unaware and would be highly sensitive to such matters. It''s like an emperor whose ministers rebel over a certain issue. After quelling the rebellion, the emperor would be even more wary of that issue and highly suspicious, fearing other ministers might rebel over the same matter. I imagine the rtionship between you, the Saints, and the way of the heavens is simrly fraught with tension," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "And what does this have to do with me killing you?" the Saint asked indifferently.


    By now, Zhong Shan felt the killing intent dissipating even more.


    "You know better than I do if it has any rtion, and the way of the heavens knows even better. Or perhaps, those strong individuals just one step away from bing Saints would very much like you to kill me! That would make their chances even greater," Zhong Shan said with supreme confidence.


    The Saint stared at Zhong Shan in silence for a moment before suddenly bursting intoughter.


    "Hahahaha...!"


    The Saint''sughter sent shivers down Su Afo''s spine, but Zhong Shan remained tense, unsure whether the Saint would ultimately decide to kill him or not.


    Zhong Shan could always find a way to argue his point, regardless of the situation. It was unclear what the Saint thought of all this.


    "What is your name?" the Saint suddenly asked.


    "Zhong Shan of the Great Zheng Holy Court," Zhong Shan replied respectfully, his previous arrogance reced with solemnity.


    "Zhong Shan? A good name!" The Saint nodded, as if making a point to remember it.


    Hearing this, Zhong Shan finally rxed. He had seeded; the Saint''s killing intent had vanished.


    "May I ask for the Saint''s name?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "People call me ''Mozi.'' Remember it well," the Saint said, giving Zhong Shan a deep look.


    "Yes, I will remember it well!" Zhong Shan replied, taking a deep breath.


    Mozi? That name sounded so familiar! A Saint?


    Looking around, Mozi said calmly, "Come with me."


    "Yes!" the three responded in unison.


    With a flick of his sleeve, Mozi transported the three to the entrance of the Celestial Hall.


    Outside the Celestial Hall, the battles had ceased as soon as the two Saints descended.


    With Saints present, there was no point in fighting. In the presence of Saints, any battle was merely a spectacle, and an irritated Saint could end it all with a single p. It was better to be cautious.


    The two Saints stood at the entrance of the Celestial Hall, not entering as Mozi had. They seemed to be waiting for something.


    No one dared to rush in, so they all stood anxiously outside, watching the entrance.


    "Holy King, do you think Nine-Tails and the others will be alright?" Chess Saint Chimei asked worriedly.


    "Let''s wait and see," said the Holy King of Taichu.


    "Alright."


    The waiting was torturous, each heartbeat echoing loudly in the silence. What kind of treasure was inside? The Universe Cauldron? The Red Sleeve Sphere? The Map of Rivers and Mountains seemed to have been destroyed.


    Suddenly, a figure stepped out first, causing everyone''s heart to skip a beat. A Saint?


    Had the Saint taken over Sima Qing''s body? What about Princess Nine-Tails and the others? Had they been silenced?


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhong Shan, Princess Nine-Tails, and Su Afo stepped out.


    Seeing the three emerge, everyone was stunned. What was happening? How did theye out with the Saint? What had happened inside?


    "Mozi, what''s inside?" one of the Saints asked.


    Mozi looked at him and shook his head. "I have forgotten."


    Hearing Mozi''s reply, the other two Saints'' pupils contracted. It seemed they understood, or at least suspected, something, wanting Mozi''s confirmation.


    Mozi waved his hand and struck the Celestial Hall with his palm.


    "Boom!"


    The Celestial Hall exploded into dust, which was then consumed by a ck hole behind it, disappearingpletely.


    What was Mozi doing? Destroying the Celestial Hall? Why? No one understood.


    "There is no Celestial Hall in this world. There is none now, nor was there ever. These three never entered the Celestial Hall. Anyone who inquires about it will be pursued by me, Mozi!" Mozi dered calmly.


    His tone was light, yet it carried immense authority, sending a shiver through everyone''s hearts.


    "Mozi''s decree is equivalent to mine!" another Saint suddenly dered.


    "Equivalent to mine as well!" thest Saint added.


    Everyone was bewildered. The three Saints had spoken with one voice, forbidding any inquiries. What had happened inside?

 Chapter 890: The Realm of Samsara

    <h4>Chapter 890: The Realm of Samsara</h4>


    The attitude of the three Saints was perplexing; today''s events were not to be mentioned by anyone?


    Curiosity was inevitable. Four people went to retrieve Nuwa''s relics, a Saint intervened midway, yet the other two Saints did not enter. Everything seemed extraordinarily bizarre.


    Did the three obtain the relics? How did they end uping out with a Saint? Why did the Saint lower himself to protect these three?


    Everything was shrouded in mystery, but no one dared to defy the Saints. Saints were the most powerful beings in the world. Offending three Saints at once? Even if you obtained the Saint''s relics, what then? It would still be a death wish!


    The ancient immortals took a deep breath and said, "We obey the Saints'' decree!"


    No one dared to object; everyoneplied unanimously.


    Zhong Shan observed the entire situation calmly. The way of the heavens? The ultimate existence in the world?


    The three Saints looked down at the vast expanse of the Ao Lai Sea below.


    "Return to where you came from!" Mozi said calmly to those below.


    His words didn''t just reach their ears but seemed to resonate in their hearts. The people at the Ao Lai Sea immediately bowed in reverence.


    At some point, the mysterious Magu had vanished from the sea below, disappearing as mysteriously as she had appeared.


    The three Saints exchanged a nce, and then, enveloped in a white light, they shot up into the sky and disappeared from sight.


    The three ancient immortals, whose bodies had been taken over by the Saints'' divine sense, fainted immediately and were caught by others as they fell.


    "Let''s go back!" said the Holy King of Taichu.


    "Yes!" everyone responded.


    The Holy King of Taichu led Princess Nine-Tails, while Chess Saint Chimei led Zhong Shan and Su Afo downwards.


    The other three kings of Taichu returned separately, one carrying Sima Qing.


    The Master of the Purple Firmament looked in the direction Sima Qing was taken, frowned slightly, but said nothing, and then disappeared.


    The battle at the Ao Lai Sea had ended. However, it left an endless fog of mystery. Only Zhong Shan and the other two knew the whole story, and of course, they wouldn''t divulge it. They understood that speaking about what they saw in the Celestial Hall meant courting death.


    Even the Saints were cautious about it, so how could they speak carelessly?


    Zhong Shan would undoubtedly remain untouchable for a long time.


    Elsewhere, back at Qingqiu.


    Sima Qingy at home for six months before slowly waking up.


    When he awoke, he sat alone in a small courtyard, all the servants dismissed.


    In the courtyard, Sima Qing furrowed his brows deeply.


    "Nuwa defied the way of the heavens? So, the way of the heavens can indeed be defied!" Sima Qing kept pondering this thought.


    Suddenly, Sima Qing took out a jade pendant he always wore at his waist.


    With a flick of his hand, some patterns began to appear on the surface of the pendant. The pendant acted like a memory crystal, recording everything that happened in the Celestial Hall that day.


    As he looked at the scenes within, Sima Qing''s frown deepened.


    "Zhong Shan? Unfortunately, I cannot use him!" Sima Qing murmured.


    After viewing everything, Sima Qing crushed the pendant in his hand.


    "Crack!" The jade pendant shattered instantly.


    Closing his eyes, Sima Qing leaned back in his chair, remaining silent for a long time.


    "The Realm of Fengzong? Fengzong? The tomb of Feng Lixi? The tomb of Nuwa?" Sima Qing muttered with a frown.


    Sima Qing did not open his eyes. He pondered, tapping the table rhythmically.


    "The Supreme Saint mentioned that those who guard Nuwa''s tomb are incredibly loyal. To guard Nuwa''s tomb, they must be a significant power. In the Fengzong Territory, there are six major powers: the Three Holy Courts of Taichu, Taiyi, and Taiji, and the three Daoist Sects of Zixiao, Randeng, and the Serpent Queen! Among these, only three are ancient: Taichu, Randeng, and the Serpent Queen! Taichu is impossible, Randeng is just a group of monks, leaving only the Serpent Queen''s sect."


    "The Serpent Queen''s sect? It''s said that Nuwa had a human head and a snake''s body. A snake''s body? The Serpent Queen? Indeed, this territory has been known as the Fengzong Territory ever since the Serpent Queen''s sect appeared. Has the Serpent Queen''s sect been guarding Nuwa''s tomb all this time?" Sima Qing''s eyes shed with realization.


    He stood and paced the courtyard.


    "Nuwa''s tomb? Could it contain Nuwa''s treasures?"


    "The Serpent Queen''s sect in the Fengzong Territory seems to have immense reserves," Sima Qing continued to analyze.


    Meanwhile, in the underworld, within the Realm of Samsara, the Great Zheng Holy Court!


    The main forces of Great Zheng were almost entirely concentrated in the underworld, with most capable ministers brought by Zhong Shan. The Holy Court in the mortal realm was nearly entirely supported by Zhong Shan alone, while in the underworld, his ministers maneuvered freely, allowing Zhong Shan to remain exceedingly calm.


    There had been attacks from powerful immortals, but not as many as in the mortal realm. These attackers came individually. From start to finish, Zhong Shan only needed to issuemands.


    The soldiers and ministers of Great Zheng were nombs to be ughtered; they were wolves that devoured their enemies without mercy.


    The ministers of Great Zheng were unruly figures subdued only by Zhong Shan. These unruly figures naturally had their own strengths.


    In their respective fields, they were all at the peak.


    Those who emerged from the small worlds might not have the cultivation of those from the grand worlds, but their expertise was on par with any empire.


    There was no need for an immortal monument to guard the borders. Eight powerful immortals hade in total, relying on their strength to terrorize and plunder Zhong Shan''s artifacts.


    But could mere rogue cultivators challenge Zhong Shan? Zhong Shan hadn''t even needed to act.


    All eight were captured by the ministers of Great Zheng.


    Eight powerful immortals and dozens of celestial beings��what of it? Besides those already dead, the rest were imprisoned in Great Zheng''s dungeon.


    Their powers were sealed, and they were interrogated by Jinyiwei''smander, Liu Wushuang, personally.


    They were forced to surrender their techniques, and the most suitable ones were distributed among the army to strengthen the foundation of the Great Zheng Holy Court.


    Great Zheng needed strength, and sometimes, extreme measures were necessary.


    In this era of new beginnings, Great Zheng quickly established itself firmly in the Realm of Samsara.


    In the royal court, Zhong Shan sat on the Nine-Dragon Throne, watching his ministers discuss state affairs.


    "Your Majesty!" Yi Yan stepped forward.


    "Speak!"


    "In the past two years, there have been neenrge-scale invasions by eight neighboring celestial dynasties. All invading forces have been annihted!" Yi Yan reported.


    "Good!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "During these two years, I dispatched numerous scouts to survey the entire Realm of Samsara. Their findings match the information gathered from our captives," Yi Yan continued.


    "Let''s hear it," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "Yes, the Realm of Samsara can be viewed as divided into northern and southern parts. We are in the north. The only real threat to our court in the north is the Spacetime Dojo, led by its master ''Luo Xingchen.'' His power is unfathomable, and he possesses the divine ability of ''time.'' He is the primary enemy in the Realm of Samsara. While other celestial dynasties and holynds in the north are strong, they remain within our court''s capacity to handle," Yi Yan analyzed.


    "What about the south?" Zhong Shan asked calmly.


    "In the south, there is another powerful force that could threaten our court: the Wuxiang Holy Court. The ruler of this court was the number one person in our small world tens of thousands of years ago, the Wuxiang Holy King. He is also the ancestor of True Monarch Nian Youyou from the past Longevity Realm," Yi Yan reported.


    "The ancestor of Nian Youyou?" Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s reaction, Yi Yan nodded and continued, "The Wuxiang Holy King is a man of great ambition and talent. His domain is vast. A small half of the territory south of the Samsara Region belongs to the Wuxiang Holy Court. Additionally, the Wuxiang Region, across the sea from the Samsara Region, is entirely under his control. The Wuxiang Holy Court wields considerable influence!"


    Zhong Shan tapped his fingers lightly on the dragon throne, contemting the situation in the Samsara Region.


    At that moment, Mud Buddha stepped forward.


    "Your Majesty!" Mud Buddha said respectfully.


    "Speak!"


    "Yes, my lineage entered the small worldter. My grandmaster originally presided over the Wheel Hall. As long as Your Majesty can take control of the Wheel Hall, I only need a few years to study its mechanisms. I can guarantee that once I control the formations of the Wheel Hall, I can fend off a hundred ancient immortals without defeat!" Mud Buddha said respectfully.


    "Fend off a hundred ancient immortals without defeat? The Wheel Hall?" Zhong Shan''s expression grew serious.


    "Yes, the Wheel Hall is currently within the domain of the Spacetime Dojo. Due to its intense malevolent aura, no one has been able to control it, but I can," Mud Buddha said with a bow.


    Zhong Shan looked at Mud Buddha with a frown. The Samsara Region was famous for the Wheel Hall, but it had been abandoned for hundreds of thousands of years. Mud Buddha imed he could control it?


    "Very well, I will take the Wheel Hall and leave it under yourmand!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Mud Buddha said respectfully.


    "Your Majesty, if we decide to seize the Wheel Hall, we will be directly opposing the Spacetime Dojo. We should avoid a direct confrontation for now, especially with the eight celestial dynasties around us," Yi Yan advised.


    "The eight celestial dynasties are a hindrance? Then we will pacify them first. It''s been two years since they attacked us neen times. It''s time for a counterattack!" Zhong Shan said resolutely.


    "Yes, I have devised a strategy to deal with the eight celestial dynasties. It will require cooperation from our various militarymanders. I request Your Majesty''s approval," Yi Yan said, presenting a jade slip.


    The ministers were astonished. Yi Yan, as expected, was the most valued military strategist of the Holy King. He had nned the entire strategy before the battle even began, relieving the Holy King of his worries!


    Zhong Shan took the jade slip and scanned it with his divine sense. He closed his eyes and thought for a moment.


    "Approved!" Zhong Shan affirmed.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Yi Yan replied.


    "Yan Chongzhi!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "I am here!" Yan Chongzhi stepped forward.


    "Yi Yan will handle the eight celestial dynasties. I now assign you to eliminate the four major holynds around us within two years. The masters of Daming Temple and other hidden experts will follow your orders. You may also mobilize three million elite troops of Great Zheng! Make sure it''s done cleanly and efficiently!" Zhong Shan ordered solemnly.


    "As youmand!" Yan Chongzhi responded.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan frowned and looked into the distance.


    The ministers followed his gaze to a distant hall.


    "Congrattions, Your Majesty! The Celestial Immortal has broken through to the Grand Celestial realm!" Mud Buddha said respectfully.

 Chapter 891: The Transformation of the Wolf Ancestor

    <h4>Chapter 891: The Transformation of the Wolf Ancestor</h4>


    In the underworld, to the north of Da Jing''s capital city, Changjing, atop a high mountain peak.


    A grand pce stood on the summit, emanating a faint white glow. The light lingered around the pce, shrouded in a misty haze, producing countless swirling white vapors. A thick, oppressive aura emanated from within the pce.


    Outside the pce, a multitude of powerful wolf n members stood guard. Among them were Tianxian realm experts like Shapo, Qingyun, and Zhi Huo, all vigntly protecting the pce. Nearly every formidable member of the Da Jing wolf n had gathered here. The foot of the mountain was filled with wolves, each bearing a solemn expression as they guarded the pce.


    Suddenly, a massive surge of energy burst from the pce roof, sending endless white light shooting into the sky, scattering the clouds. A majestic aura erupted outward.


    "Awooooooo!"


    A deafening wolf howl echoed from the pce. Suddenly, infinite starlight descended from the distant cosmos, streaming directly into the pce. In the void, countless wolf souls appeared, rushing into the pce at an incredible speed, converging like rivers flowing into the sea.


    Starlight, white light, and the green glow of souls enveloped the entire pce in a dazzling array of colors.


    Shapo, Qingyun, Zhi Huo, and other elite wolves suddenly dropped to one knee, eyes filled with reverence. The rest of the wolves transformed into their wolf forms, prostrating themselves on the ground. The entire mountain, surrounded by wolves, bowed in reverence to the pce above.


    The wolves did not know what was happening inside the pce, but a deep soul pressure made every wolf feel their very souls tremble. This was the oppression of high bloodline over lower bloodline, a sensation only felt when the disparity was immensely vast.


    Shapo and the other wolves sensed that this high bloodline pressure was far stronger than what Di Xuan had once imposed on them, much stronger, like the awe-inspiring presence of ancient wolves.


    Over the past two years since bing immortal, the wolves had felt this pressure once, but Xianxian had always restrained it. Now, as Xianxian broke through, the released aura made all wolves feel profound fear and infinite worship.


    Supreme majesty, revealed for the first time since Di Xuan''s departure, as Xianxian exhibited her supreme dignity.


    A single wolf howl shook the heavens. Not only in Changjing, but throughout the entire Da Jing territory and even the whole Zhuanlun domain, countless lower-ranked wolves prostrated themselves. Even hunters, during their hunts, found wolves unable to move in their presence.


    Noble wolf bloodline! Astonishing and awe-inspiring.


    A mere release of soul aura was enough to establish the supreme status of the wolf n in the Zhuanlun domain.


    A gentle breeze blew as Zhong Shan arrived atop the peak with his ministers. They gazed at the enormous pce before them.


    Xianxian''s aura had surged for an entire hour. This breakthrough into the Da Xian realm seemed far more significant than expected.


    "Transformation of the Wolf Ancestor?" Wang Ku pondered aloud.


    "Transformation of the Wolf Ancestor? What do you mean?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Your Majesty, there has always been a legend in this world. In ancient times, the wolf n had a peerless expert, revered as the progenitor of the wolf n. His bloodline was passed down, but over time, it became diluted. asionally, however, a wolf with a purer ancestral bloodline would emerge, and each of these prodigies would achieve extraordinary feats. The purer the ancestral bloodline, the greater the achievements. The transformation of the Wolf Ancestor is exceedingly rare. Each transformation deepens the ancestral bloodline, bringing various mysterious abilities known only to the transformed wolves. In recent times, the most transformations by a single wolf were three, making them the strongest below a saint. Xianxian Supreme appears to be experiencing her first transformation!" Wang Ku exined.


    "Transformation of the Wolf Ancestor?" Zhong Shan furrowed his brow, looking intently at the pce.


    At this moment, the myriad lights gradually faded away.


    "Boom!"


    The grand pce doors swung open with a thunderous roar.


    Xianxian, draped in a white fur robe, stepped out of the pce. The green hue in her eyes gradually dissipated. Her once youthful and lively demeanor had now matured significantly.


    "Greetings, Supreme!"


    Almost all the wolves at the foot of the mountain bowed simultaneously. Their collective voice was thunderous, filled with reverence.


    "Rise," Xianxianmanded.


    "Thank you, Supreme!" The multitude of wolves stood up, surrounding the area respectfully.


    Xianxian then turned her gaze towards Zhong Shan.


    "Haha, Zhong Shan, did you know that just now..." Xianxian''s previously serious demeanor shifted to a cheerful tone as she addressed Zhong Shan with a grin.


    However, sensing that her tone might not be appropriate, she paused and nced around. "Alright, you all may leave for now."


    "Yes!" The wolvesplied.


    Zhong Shan smiled slightly and turned to his ministers. "Court is dismissed. You may all leave."


    "Yes!" The ministers responded.


    Soon, the ministers and wolves dispersed.


    Once everyone had left, Xianxian rxed and said, "Being so serious all the time is exhausting!"


    "Di Xuan has left, and now you are the Supreme of the wolf n. How can a Supremeck dignity?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "That''s why, ever since Grandpa left, I''ve felt so much pressure. By the way, I was telling you about something earlier. Guess what happened when I broke through?" Xianxian''s eyes sparkled with excitement.


    "The transformation of the Wolf Ancestor?" Zhong Shan guessed with a smile.


    "Huh? How did you know?"


    "I just heard about it. It seems you''re not the only one in the world capable of the Wolf Ancestor transformation. Don''t get too proud now."


    "But I just had a breakthrough! Let me be proud for a little while, just a little while!" Xianxian pouted, clinging to Zhong Shan''s arm yfully.


    "Alright, just for a little while," Zhong Shan chuckled.


    Although Xianxian had reached the Da Xian realm, her personality remained bright and cheerful��perhaps only so around Zhong Shan.


    "This time, I''m really powerful. Did you know? The transformation of the Wolf Ancestor, I had only heard my grandfather mention it. I never thought I could undergo it myself. Just now, it felt like I received a lot through the bloodline inheritance, many abilities only I can use. Could these be divine abilities?" Xianxian chatted happily with Zhong Shan.


    "Divine abilities?" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    "Yes, from now on, I will take Grandpa''s ce as your strongest support. With me here, no one can harm you!" Xianxian said earnestly.


    Just as Zhong Shan was about to respond, a sudden chill ran down his spine.


    "Bang!"


    Behind Zhong Shan, a circr scroll abruptly unfurled.


    The Emperor''s Picture! The Yin Picture of the Emperor!


    In this eerie moment, an assassination attempt was made. The Emperor''s Picture instinctively shielded Zhong Shan.


    A streak of light, a golden streak, bizarrely appeared, piercing through the Emperor''s Picture, then strangely rebounding and vanishing into the distance.


    "An assassin?" Xianxian''s expression darkened.


    The sunlight in her demeanor instantly vanished, reced by a chilling shadow as she red at the spot where the golden light had disappeared.


    "Whoosh!"


    Xianxian''s figure flickered and disappeared from sight.


    The assassination attempt on the mountaintop created amotion, drawing numerous Da Jing experts. Wang Ku swiftly followed after Xianxian.


    Grabbing the Emperor''s Picture, Zhong Shan''s face turned grim.


    "Sacred King, are you alright?" Yi Yan and the others quickly inquired.


    "Summon Nangong Sheng!" Zhong Shanmanded in a deep voice.


    Soon, Nangong Sheng arrived.


    "Sacred King!" Nangong Sheng greeted respectfully.


    "The arrow was shot from outside Changjing. You''re in charge of the city''s formations. How did such a powerful arrow bypass the defenses unnoticed?" Zhong Shan asked sternly.


    "There was no reaction from the Four Directions Grand Array. I don''t know how it happened!" Nangong Sheng replied, frowning deeply.


    Though Nangong Sheng''s cultivation was higher than Zhong Shan''s, none dared defy Zhong Shan''s long-standing authority.


    In the distance, a sh of white and ck light signaled Xianxian and Wang Ku''s return.


    "Bang!" "Bang!"


    Wang Ku tossed down two individuals. One was alive, the other dead.


    The living man, dressed in a red robe, looked terrified. His face was drenched in cold sweat, and his chest appeared to have been heavily struck, flesh mangled��clear signs of Xianxian''s earlier assault. The dead man had a golden arrow embedded in his chest, his body shriveled and ancient.


    "This dead man shot the arrow, and this aplice is a wolf, but not from the Da Jing wolf n. I leave their fate to you," Xianxian said angrily.


    "A wolf?" Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold.


    The red-robed man, terrified and clearly outmatched, was quickly captured. Surrounded by powerful figures, he seemed doomed.


    With a look of resolve, the red-robed man''s eyes showed a glimmer of determination.


    "You want tomit suicide? Don''t worry, after you die, I will refine your soul!" Wang Ku said calmly.


    Seeing Wang Ku''s expression, the red-robed man''s heart sank.


    "Speak! Who sent you?" Zhong Shan demanded.


    "You can''t kill me! I am from the Spacetime Dojo. Do you know who this is? He is the disciple of the Dojo''s leader. If you kill him, you''re all doomed! The leader will hunt you down when he emerges. No one will escape!" the red-robed man shouted.


    "Spacetime Dojo? I was already thinking of finding you, and now you''vee to me?" Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with a cold light.


    At this moment, Nangong Sheng approached the corpse and pulled out the golden arrow. As he did, the body shriveled further, bing a desated husk.


    "This arrow?" Nangong Sheng murmured, astonished that it had pierced Changjing''s defenses unnoticed.


    "Hiss!" Nangong Sheng let out a gasp as if his fingers were suddenly flicked away.


    Everyone looked at Nangong Sheng.


    "Sacred King, this arrow is peculiar. It has a unique feeling to it," Nangong Sheng said, frowning.


    The ministers examined the arrow.


    "Time attribute! This arrow is imbued with a time attribute," Wang Ku said after some thought.


    "What is its effect?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Once shot, it''s faster than any other arrow because it contains the power of time. It feels as if the world stands still while it moves. This is the power of the time attribute, allowing it to bypass the grand array. The array might be functioning, but before the time attribute, it appears frozen, and the arrow slips through the gaps. Additionally, it can instantly age and kill anyone it hits, even a Da Xian. However, it met you, Sacred King, and fate had other ns," Wang Ku exined seriously.


    "Time attribute?" Zhong Shan''s face darkened.


    "Great Da Jing Sacred King, we didn''t intend to shoot you. I didn''t order the shot. It was his idea. It has nothing to do with me!" the red-robed man pleaded fearfully.


    "You didn''t intend to shoot me? Then who was your target?" Zhong Shan demanded.


    "To... to shoot..." The red-robed man nced at Xianxian, unable to speak.


    "To shoot me?" Xianxian asked coldly.


    "Yes, yes. At first, we only intended to shoot you, but he said the Great Da Jing Sacred King was also a threat. And since you were together, we decided to..." the red-robed man stammered.

 Chapter 892: Schemes Against the Spacetime Dojo

    <h4>Chapter 892: Schemes Against the Spacetime Dojo</h4>


    "Yes, yes. We originally nned to shoot only you, but he said the Great Da Jing Sacred King was also a threat. Since you were together, we decided to..." the red-robed man stammered.


    "So you shot us both?" Xianxian''s eyes shed with anger.


    The red-robed man dared not say more. Whether he admitted it or denied it, death awaited him either way.


    Zhong Shan reached out and grabbed the golden arrow. As he touched it, waves of energy seemed to travel through the arrow and into his body, causing a dull pain to echo within him.


    "Was this arrow crafted by Luo Xingchen?" Zhong Shan asked calmly.


    "Yes, yes, it was personally crafted by the leader. It contains the time attribute and is one of the finest divine arrows among Da Xian artifacts. Apart from the leader, only three others in the Spacetime Dojo possess one. Each person has only one arrow!" the red-robed man replied fearfully.


    Zhong Shan handed the arrow to the Mud Buddha, who immediately took it.


    Zhong Shan then turned his gaze back to the red-robed man. "Luo Xingchen is in seclusion. He wouldn''t have made the decision to assassinate Xianxian. Tell me, who ordered this?"


    "This... this..." The red-robed man hesitated, trembling.


    "If you don''t speak now, I have many ways to make you suffer. Do you wish to endure physical pain or the torment of having your soul refined?" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "I-I''ll talk!" The red-robed man, terrified, nced at Wang Ku. He had felt Wang Ku''s terrifying aura when captured, nearly having his soul torn from his body. Was Wang Ku from the skeleton n?


    "Yes?"


    "It was the leader''s wife, Chen Xiaoqian! She gave the order!" the red-robed man confessed.


    "Chen Xiaoqian? You serve her?" Zhong Shan questioned.


    "No, I serve the deputy leader, Chen Zihao."


    "Chen Xiaoqian? Chen Zihao? Why do they want to kill Xianxian?" Zhong Shan asked sternly.


    "Because Chen Zihao and Chen Xiaoqian are both from the wolf n. When Chen Zihao passed through here long ago, he was intimidated by Xianxian''s aura. Though both are wolves, Xianxian''s bloodline is far superior. Fearing they might be subdued by her in the future, they decided to eliminate her early!" the red-robed man exined.


    "Chen Zihao? Chen Xiaoqian?" Zhong Shan repeated, scrutinizing the red-robed man.


    "The deputy leader is the leader''s wife''s older brother. That''s how he became the deputy leader and earned the leader''s trust. He oversees many major affairs within the dojo!" the red-robed man added.


    "Is that all?" Zhong Shan pressed.


    "Yes, that''s everything!" the red-robed man insisted.


    "Take him away!" Zhong Shan ordered with a wave of his hand.


    Liu Wushuang promptly had the red-robed man taken away to be dealt with ording to Da Jing''sws.


    "Xiao Wang!"


    "Your minister is here!" Xiao Wang responded immediately.


    "Have we infiltrated the Spacetime Dojo?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "Yes, a year ago we sent someone to join the dojo, but their current position is not high. They are still climbing the ranks," Xiao Wang replied.


    "Don''t worry about their position now. Have them quickly uncover all interpersonal rtionships within the Spacetime Dojo and any conspiracies. They may use up to five hundred thousand immortal stones for their activities. I need aprehensivework of the dojo''s rtionships as soon as possible!" Zhong Shan ordered firmly.


    "Yes!"


    "Sacred King, are you nning to take action against the Spacetime Dojo? Shouldn''t we first eliminate the surrounding eight great celestial dynasties and four great holynds?" Xiao Wang asked, frowning.


    "Those targets can wait. The Spacetime Dojo poses a direct threat now, and we must address it immediately. Once we dismantle their internal structure, the other threats will be easier to manage," Zhong Shan exined, his eyes narrowing with determination.


    The room fell silent as Zhong Shan''s ministers absorbed the gravity of his n. The Spacetime Dojo, with its time-manipting abilities, was a formidable opponent, but Zhong Shan''s resolve was unshakable.


    "Can''t wait any longer, the time maniption abilities are too dangerous and unpredictable. We must resolve this swiftly. The Spacetime Dojo? We need to n carefully!" Zhong Shan said with a serious tone.


    "But..." Xiao Wang still seemed worried.


    "Don''t worry, just do as I''ve said!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Xiao Wang nodded.


    "Zhong Shan, if we''re going to destroy the Spacetime Dojo, let me lead the charge. Anyone who tries to kill you will not survive!" Xianxian dered fiercely, her aura suddenly intense.


    Zhong Shan nced at Xianxian and smiled slightly. "Alright, you''ll be the vanguard. However, for now, focus on consolidating the inheritance you''ve just received."


    "Understood!" Xianxian replied.


    Southern Zhuanlun Domain


    In the vastnds under the jurisdiction of the Wu Xiang Sacred Court, therey a capital called Tianci City.


    Inside Tianci City, a remarkably handsome man was seated, surrounded by a group of subordinates.


    "Your Highness, the Third Prince, there is chaos in the north!" an official reported.


    "Oh?" The Third Prince frowned.


    "The Great Da Jing Sacred Court is now retaliating against the eight great celestial dynasties and seems to be making moves against the surrounding sacrednds as well!" the official said.


    "The eight great celestial dynasties? After being attacked neen times, they''re finally fighting back? And blindly against all eight at once? What is that Great Da Jing Sacred King thinking? Are people from the Small Thousand World all this slow and foolish?" the Third Prince mocked.


    "I can''t understand it either, Your Highness. Logically, after the Great Da Jing opened the heavens, their strength shouldn''t be much greater than the surrounding celestial dynasties. Enduring neen attacks should be a testament to their resilience. Even if they were to counterattack, it should be one by one, not all at once, and definitely not provoking several sacrednds simultaneously," the official said, frowning.


    "Regardless, keep a close eye on Da Jing. Inform me immediately of any developments!" the Third Princemanded.


    "Yes, Your Highness!"


    "Has Nian Youyou arrived in the Wu Xiang Domain?" the Third Prince asked, frowning.


    "ording to the timeline, she should be arriving soon," another official replied.


    "Nian Youyou waited until the heavens were opened before she was willing to leave. Her eyes showed a deep reluctance. Something doesn''t add up. My elder brother instructed me to investigate this matter thoroughly. How is the investigation progressing?" the Third Prince asked in a stern voice.


    "We haven''t found anything yet. It''s been a short time, and infiltrating Da Jing to uncover everything about Nian Youyou is no easy task. But we are doing our best," the official responded immediately.


    "Hurry up with the investigation. My elder brother is waiting for our report!"


    "Yes, Your Highness!"


    "And what about the incident six months ago, when the wolves of the Zhuanlun Domain submitted? Do we have any information?" the Third Prince inquired.


    "We do, and it''s rted to Da Jing," the official replied.


    "Oh?"


    "The Supreme of the wolf n in Da Jing, Empress Xianxian, underwent a ''Wolf Ancestor Transformation,''" the official reported.


    "Wolf Ancestor Transformation?" The Third Prince''s eyes narrowed.


    "Yes!"


    "Ancestral wolf bloodline? It looks like I''ll need to make a trip north," the Third Prince said with a hint of excitement.


    "But, Your Highness, the southern region is at a critical juncture. We are currently at war with four celestial dynasties. Your presence is essential here for the next year or two," the official reminded him.


    "Alright, then I''ll head north once the southern battles have been resolved!" the Third Prince concluded.


    "Understood!"---


    Zhuanlun Domain, Spacetime Dojo


    A vast expanse ofnd, dotted with numerous buildings on all sides, surrounded by mountains and abundant with spiritual energy. At the very center, a towering peak glowed brilliantly with the radiance of immense karmic virtue.


    In a secluded pce, heavily fortified with formations,y a grand bed on which two bodies entwined, their passionate moans reverberating like enchanting music throughout the hall.


    An hourter, silence settled over the pce. The many back while the woman rested on his chest.


    "Chen Zihao, how dare you! Don''t you know I''m the leader''s wife? How could you bully me?" the woman murmured coquettishly.


    "The leader''s wife? I love bullying the leader''s wife!" the man responded with a wicked grin.


    "But I''m your sister!" the woman said, feigning distress.


    "Not really. If it wasn''t to deceive that fool, I wouldn''t have my dear pretend to be my sister and then send her to him. It hasn''t been easy for me these years either," Chen Zihao said, trying to cate her.


    "At least you have a conscience!" the woman said, casting him a seductive nce.


    "Of course. If I don''t treat you well, who will? Do you expect that blockhead leader to?" Chen Zihao smirked.


    "Hmm, he is just a blockhead, always immersed in cultivation. By the way, how are things going in the dojo?" the woman asked.


    "In the dojo? Apart from Luo Xingchen being the nominal leader, I control almost everything now. Half a year ago, the only disciple loyal to Luo Xingchen went to Da Jing to assassinate someone and died. Soon, this dojo will belong to the Chen family!" Chen Zihaoughed.


    "Chen? Do you think you''re a match for that blockhead?" the woman sneered.


    "I''m not, but he''s not invincible. Someone else will take care of him," Chen Zihao said with a sly smile.


    "Oh? Who?"


    "From the south!"


    "The Wu Xiang Sacred Court?"


    "Yes. As long as we make some arrangements, the Wu Xiang Sacred Court will set a trap for Luo Xingchen. He''ll jump right in!" Chen Zihao chuckled.


    "But won''t they try to scheme against us...?"


    "Of course they will. But I''m no fool either. Don''t worry. Soon I''ll be an Ancient Immortal. Once I reach that level and control the dojo, with its endless karmic virtue, the Wu Xiang Sacred Court won''t be able to touch me! No matter what, you''ll always be the leader''s wife," Chen Zihao reassured.


    "Hmm!" The woman smiled contentedly.


    "However, the leader''s disciple you sent to assassinate Empress Xianxian failed, which gives me a bad feeling," Chen Zihao frowned.


    "There''s nothing to worry about. It''s clear those two fools were discovered and then surrounded and killed by all the strong warriors of Da Jing. They just died, that''s all," the woman said dismissively.


    "But I still feel uneasy, I don''t know why," Chen Zihao admitted, still frowning.


    "Don''t worry. Once that blockhead finishes his seclusion, I''ll have him eliminate Zhong Shan and Empress Xianxian! He listens to me the most," the woman assured.


    "You really are my treasure. You always know what to say to please me. Come, let me reward you!" Chen Zihao said excitedly.


    "You''re so naughty!" the woman giggled.


    Once again, the hall was filled with indecent sounds.

 Chapter 893: Luo Xingchen Emerges from Seclusion

    <h4>Chapter 893: Luo Xingchen Emerges from Seclusion</h4>


    The Great Da Jing Sacred Court''s decision tounch an attack against the eight great celestial dynasties immediately caused an uproar across the northern Zhuanlun Domain.


    People had seen arrogance before, but never to this extent��taking on eight at once? Even though these were only lower-level celestial dynasties, there were still eight of them. If it were an established sacred court, it would be understandable, as many sacred courts possess such strength. But what was with Da Jing? It had only been five years since the opening of the heavens, a celestial dynasty from a Small Thousand World that had barely reached the status of a sacred court due to the blessings of the heavens. Even if they were strong, their strength should be limitedpared to a celestial dynasty.


    Yet Da Jing had recklessly started a simultaneous war against eight celestial dynasties?


    The northern Zhuanlun Domain''s countless forces eagerly watched Da Jing, paying close attention to every little movement, ready to spread the news far and wide at the slightest hint of change.


    What shocked people even more than the one-against-eight confrontation was the fact that within the past two years, the Great Da Jing Sacred Court had also wiped out four surrounding sacrednds!


    Unbelievable. This newly ascended sacred court, while fighting eight celestial dynasties, still had the power to deal with sacrednds? Where did they get so much strength?


    The news spread everywhere, stunning countless forces, and eventually reached the southern Wu Xiang Sacred Court, at Tianci City.


    "Your Highness, the Third Prince, all four sacrednds around Da Jing have been cleared out. Only two years��this is incredible!" an official reported.


    "Sacrednds? No matter how strong, they only have more peak-level powerhouses. Dynasties are different; they can userge numbers tounch group attacks. The four sacrednds were too arrogant and failed to unite, allowing Da Jing to destroy them one by one. But what I don''t understand is how Da Jing has so many experts. They''ve already sent arge number of powerful individuals to the front lines against the eight celestial dynasties. How do they still have so many peak-level warriors?" another official questioned.


    "How many peak-level warriors?" The Third Prince frowned.


    "Themander of Da Jing''s seventh legion, Yan Chongzhi, led three million elite troops and eight hundred Tianxian realm experts. These eight hundred Tianxian, each one is a martial fanatic, incredibly fierce. The formation they set up can even overwhelm the Da Xian realm experts of various sacrednds. One by one, the sacrednds were destroyed, and many sacrednd talents were absorbed by Da Jing. If given time, Da Jing''s rise will be unstoppable!" the first official exined.


    "Eight hundred Tianxian? I know where these people came from!" another official said.


    "Oh?"


    "Remember the information we collected earlier? The Great Da Jing Sacred Court has a special institution, the national religion, Da Ming Sect, which has a central temple called Da Ming Temple. It houses numerous martial fanatics. They don''t need much wisdom or handleplex affairs; they possess strong roots and just need to cultivate relentlessly. These people are born for battle and are the strongest support for Da Jing against hostile sects. Thebination of a dynasty''s organizational power and a sect''s peerless experts is incredible. The fact that the Great Da Jing Sacred Kingprehended all this in the Small Thousand World is truly astounding," the official said.


    "But even so, eight hundred Tianxian? No matter how good their roots, even with fortune or merit elerating their cultivation, reaching the Tianxian realm without sufficient experience in such a short time is impossible," the first official doubted.


    "Unless, unless the Great Da Jing Sacred King can somehow elevate everyone''s spiritual realms in a short period, but that''s impossible. Spiritual realms require life experiences and insights��how could they be increased like that?"


    The Third Prince listened intently, his brow furrowed.


    "This Great Da Jing Sacred Court is indeed shrouded in mystery," the Third Prince remarked, taking a deep breath.


    "Yes! We have already doubled the number of people investigating the Great Da Jing Sacred Court," the earlier official reported.


    "Double it again!" the Third Prince ordered.


    "Yes!"


    "They won''t handle the conflict with the eight great celestial dynasties in the same way, will they?" The Third Prince frowned.


    "No, the war between dynasties and sects is different. It''s still a stalemate. However, themander orchestrating this war for Da Jing is remarkable. They have maximized the use of their forces with impable efficiency. Every ounce of strength is used perfectly. Although I''m reluctant to admit it, the fact is thismander is extraordinarily capable," the official replied.


    "Stalemate? They won''t be able to sustain it for long. The Great Da Jing Sacred Court is overreaching. They''re trying to seize too much territory at once. Each city requires a staggering number of officials to manage. I believe they will hit a wall halfway through due to a shortage of personnel," the Third Prince spected.


    "No, Da Jing is quite peculiar. They don''t need to leave any of their own officials behind in each conquered city," the official exined.


    "Oh?"


    "After Da Jing conquers a city, they retain the original officials. However, they only use those who were previously unrecognized or underutilized. They demote the original high-ranking officials or send them to the capital and promote the lower-ranking ones. This strategy creates a strong sense of loyalty to Da Jing. Furthermore, they have specialized personnel who indoctrinate these officials daily with Da Jing''s principles, effectively brainwashing them. Before long, the city bes fully integrated into Da Jing, and they can even mobilize the city''s original garrison to join their expanding army," the official analyzed.


    "Gasp!" Several individuals took a sharp breath.


    "In this way, the prolonged conflict will only make Da Jing grow stronger. While wars typically deplete resources, Da Jing''s approach replenishes them. The Small Thousand World has indeed provided some unique insights that we can adopt for our own court," the Third Prince remarked with a sigh.


    "The eight great celestial dynasties could also learn from this to counter Da Jing. However, mastering Da Jing''s system will take considerable time," the official noted.


    "Da Jing? Double the number of scouts sent to monitor them closely!" the Third Prince ordered with great seriousness.


    "Yes!"


    Two Years Later, Spacetime Dojo


    At the central peak of the Spacetime Dojo, a deafening explosion echoed through the air, causing the surrounding karmic virtue to surge wildly. Countless virtuous figures in the sky emitted a dazzling glow.


    Many members of the Spacetime Dojo quickly flew toward themotion.


    A massive tform gradually appeared halfway up the main peak. Atop the tform stood a grand pce, surrounded by what seemed to be distorted spacetime, forming concentric circles that looked incredibly eerie.


    The pce doors swung open with a thunderous boom. From within, a man in a blue robe, adorned with countless stars, emerged, looking extremely majestic.


    His face was strikingly handsome, with sword-like eyebrows and bright eyes. At the center of his forehead, there seemed to be a blue gemstone embedded, adding to his imposing aura.


    "Wee, Master!" the disciples of the Spacetime Dojo bowed immediately.


    Regardless of their personal feelings, Luo Xingchen remained their protector. His profound abilities dominated the northern Zhuanlun Domain, unmatched by any.


    Time maniption, one of the strongest divine abilities in existence. How many in the entire world understood it?


    At that moment, a stunningly beautiful woman suddenly flew up to the tform.


    No one stopped her because she was the leader''s wife.


    Seeing the woman approach, Luo Xingchen waved his hand, causing the surrounding time distortion to vanish instantly, ensuring her safety.


    "Xingchen, you''re finally out!" the woman greeted, her voice filled with warmth.


    "Yes, I''m out now. Is everything alright?" Luo Xingchen asked, his tone gentle.


    "Everything is fine. We were all waiting for your return," the woman replied, casting a quick nce at the disciples below, who all showed deep respect.


    "Good. Let''s see how things have progressed," Luo Xingchen said, stepping forward with the woman by his side, exuding a calm yet formidable presence.


    "Congrattions, husband, on another breakthrough in your cultivation!" the woman said gracefully.


    Luo Xingchen looked at his beautiful wife, and a proud expression immediately spread across his face. With strength, the dojo, a beloved wife, time maniption, and vast resources, he possessed everything one could desire��what more could he ask for?


    "Hmm!" Luo Xingchen nodded in satisfaction.


    "Congrattions, Master! With your breakthrough, the strength of the Spacetime Dojo will undoubtedly increase, and the day when the Spacetime Dojo flourishes is just around the corner!" the deputy leader, Chen Zihao, said as he flew up to them.


    "Hmm, although the breakthrough wasn''t substantial this time... Where is Luo Tianhe?" Luo Xingchen asked with a frown.


    Upon hearing Luo Xingchen''s question, the leader''s wife and Chen Zihao exchanged a nce, their faces showing sorrow.


    "What''s wrong?" Luo Xingchen immediately turned to his wife.


    "Husband, Tianhe was killed!" the woman said with a pained expression.


    "What? Who dared to kill my disciple?" Luo Xingchen''s eyebrows shot up.


    "During your seclusion, the northern Zhuanlun Domain witnessed the emergence of a new world, a celestial dynasty called the Great Da Jing Sacred Court. Tianhe was killed by their people," the woman exined.


    "Again with that Small Thousand World?" Luo Xingchen''s brows furrowed, a look of disdain shing in his eyes.


    "Do you have a grudge against that Small Thousand World?" the woman asked, slightly surprised.


    "Long ago, a qilin carried the ''Earth Book'' into that Small Thousand World. I tried to forcefully break into the world to seize the ''Earth Book,'' but I was punished by the Great Thousand World and repelled by the Small Thousand World''s rejection. Someone unknown blocked me, leaving me with unresolved anger. And now, this same Small Thousand World killed my beloved disciple?" Luo Xingchen said coldly.


    "It''s partially my fault!" the woman said, looking pitiful.


    "What does this have to do with you?" Luo Xingchen asked, frowning.


    "The celestial dynasty that emerged, now called the Great Da Jing Sacred Court, is ruled by Sacred King Zhong Shan. His national beast is a wolf, like my true form. Tianhe died because he went to kill their beast sovereign for me," the woman exined tearfully.


    "Why did he go to kill their beast sovereign?" Luo Xingchen asked, frowning deeper.


    "You should ask my brother!" the woman said, shedding a few tears.


    "Alright, you don''t need to say more. Chen Zihao, what exactly happened?" Luo Xingchen demanded.


    "Master, when the new world was created, I went to congratte them. However, upon meeting their beast sovereign, Empress Xianxian, I found her bloodline to be superior to ours. I went to congratte her, but she tried to force me to swear allegiance. Naturally, I refused. She dered that all wolves in the Zhuanlun Domain must obey her and that she would eventuallye for us. At the time, I didn''t take her seriously. Five years ago, she underwent a Wolf Ancestor Transformation, bing even stronger. Her howl shook the entire Zhuanlun Domain, a clear threat to all wolf ns. I then realized she meant what she said. She truly intends for us to swear allegiance and be her ves. My sister has been worried about this," Chen Zihao exined.


    "Later, your disciple Luo Tianhe learned about this. Being too straightforward, he didn''t inform us and took someone from the dojo to eliminate this threat for my sister. Unfortunately, he never returned. My sister has been feeling guilty and has lost weight worrying about this. She''s been waiting for you toe out of seclusion to seek justice for Tianhe; otherwise, she will never be at peace," Chen Zihao continued.

 Chapter 894: Water Evasion

    <h4>Chapter 894: Water Evasion</h4>


    <strong>Underworld, Great Da Jing Sacred Court, Changjing</strong>


    In a vast, empty training ground, only Zhong Shan and Xianxian remained, with all others dismissed. Surrounding the area were numerous guards ensuring no disturbances.


    Perhaps it had just rained, for there were many puddles andrge pools of water scattered across the training ground.


    "Zhong Shan, let me show you the results of my enlightenment, a divine ability Iprehended based on my Wolf Ancestor Transformation!" Xianxian said excitedly.


    A divine ability? Zhong Shan was genuinely surprised when he first heard Xianxian''s im. Comprehending a divine ability usually required a stroke of luck or extraordinary circumstances. For example, his shadow body was a result of such fortune, not something he simply figured out on his own. Generally, only Ancient Immortals, and not all of them, couldprehend their own divine abilities.


    But Xianxian? She had just reached the Da Xian realm and already imed to haveprehended one. This wasn''t mere luck; it was pureprehension?


    Xianxian''s inherent talent was already extraordinary. She reached the Da Xian realm in just two years, a feat unprecedented in Da Jing. While Nangong Sheng was already close to the Da Xian realm due to the celestial blessing, and Wang Ku had merely recovered from old injuries to reach his previous heights, Xianxian had achieved this entirely through her own effort in a mere two years.


    At the time, Zhong Shan was speechless. In just seven or eight years, she had alreadyprehended a divine ability? Truly a prodigy!


    No wonder even the immensely talented Di Xuan had admitted that his potential couldn''tpare to Xianxian''s. Although she had been yful in the past, once she got serious, her power was unparalleled.


    "Show me. What kind of divine ability have youprehended?" Zhong Shan asked with great interest.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s appreciation, Xianxian became even more enthusiastic.


    "Watch closely!" Xianxian said.


    In her pure white fur robe, Xianxian''s figure suddenly blurred and became transparent.


    "Ssh!"


    Her entire body turned into water, and with a sshing sound, she dispersed onto the ground, disappearing entirely.


    Gone? Zhong Shan frowned, his divine sense searching quickly. However, no matter how hard he looked, he couldn''t find her.


    Just like that, she vanished?


    "I''m here, can you find me?" Xianxian''s voice suddenly came from a nearby puddle.


    Zhong Shan turned to look, but there was only still water, as if the voice hadn''te from there at all.


    Could his ears be deceiving him?


    "Over here!"


    "Here!"


    "Hehe, right here!"


    "Can''t find me, can you? I''m right here!"


    All over the training ground, Xianxian''s voice echoed, yet there was no sign of her. It was as if she hadpletely disappeared, even from divine sense detection.


    "Can''t find me? Admit defeat, and I''lle out! Hehe," Xianxian''s voice teased again.


    "Alright,e out. I really can''t find you. I''m too old! My eyes are failing me!" Zhong Shanughed.


    "You''re not old at all, just a few decades older than me."


    "Isn''t a few decades old enough?"


    "Not really," Xianxian giggled as she emerged from a puddle, her form solidifying back to her original self.


    Her yful and proud expression was evident as she stood before Zhong Shan, having sessfully demonstrated her new divine ability.


    "Your divine ability is truly remarkable," Zhong Shan acknowledged, still amazed at how thoroughly she had evaded detection.


    "Yes, it''s called Water Evasion. I can merge with water and move freely within it, making it almost impossible to detect me. It''s perfect for surprise attacks or escapes," Xianxian exined, her excitement clear.


    Zhong Shan smiled, genuinely impressed by her talent and the new edge she had brought to their already formidable strength.


    "That applies to ordinary people. You''re different. You said you''re still young, so I''lle out!" Xianxian teased.


    Zhong Shan sighed. "Alright, I, Zhong Shan, am still in my prime, very young!"


    "Okay, I''ming out. Watch closely!" Xianxian said yfully.


    Suddenly, a small shadow emerged from a shallow puddle in front of Zhong Shan. Xianxian began to appear, bit by bit. First, her head emerged, then her body, followed by her arms, and finally her legs and feet, all emerging from the small puddle.


    Zhong Shan watched in astonishment. This looked somewhat simr to his own ''Shadow Evasion.''


    "How is it? Impressive, right?" Xianxian said excitedly.


    "It is impressive. But how does it work?" Zhong Shan asked, still trying toprehend what he had just seen.


    "This is ''Water Evasion.'' As long as there is water, I can hide within it,pletely undetectable. No one can find me, not even a trace of my aura. Isn''t it amazing?" Xianxian looked at Zhong Shan, eager for his praise.


    Nodding, Zhong Shan said seriously, "It''s very impressive. Water evasion techniques aremon, but none canpletely erase their presence like you can. That''s what makes your divine ability so powerful. If I hadn''t experienced it firsthand, I wouldn''t have believed how formidable this ability is."


    "Of course, you have to see whoprehended it!" Xianxian said proudly.


    "However, let''s keep this ability a secret between us. Don''t tell anyone else; save it for the most critical moments," Zhong Shan advised.


    "I was only nning to tell a few people, but since you said so, I won''t even tell Grandpa!" Xianxian replied cheerfully.


    "Good!" Zhong Shan nodded, satisfied.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan felt a chill run down his spine.


    Xianxian also sensed something was wrong and, along with Zhong Shan, looked toward the distance.


    In the distance, a white cloud hovered. On the cloud stood a man in a blue robe, with a gem-like crystal embedded in his forehead.


    "Luo Xingchen?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    Luo Xingchen stood on the white cloud, holding a blue longbow with a golden arrow aimed directly at Zhong Shan.


    However, Luo Xingchen hadn''t released the arrow, seemingly waiting for Zhong Shan to notice him.


    Finally, as Zhong Shan realized his presence, Luo Xingchen no longer hesitated and released the arrow.


    "Whoosh!"


    The golden arrow shed through the air, speeding toward Zhong Shan. It was incredibly fast, reaching Zhong Shan almost instantly.


    But Zhong Shan was not afraid of such an ambush. The Emperor''s Picture unfurled, and the arrow was instantly absorbed into it, then shot back out toward Luo Xingchen.


    The speed was just as fast on the return. However, Luo Xingchen was quick as well. In that instant, he drew a second arrow and aimed it at the first.


    As lightning flickered, the tip of the second arrow met the tip of the first.


    "Boom!"


    A massive explosion of golden light erupted in the sky above Changjing, creating a powerful st.


    Numerous strong warriors from the Great Da Jing Sacred Court rushed toward Zhong Shan''s location.


    Arge number of strong warriors rushed in, surrounding and protecting Zhong Shan.


    "Another one courting death?" Xianxian, filled with rage, was about to charge forward.


    "p!" Zhong Shan grabbed Xianxian''s arm, stopping her.


    "What incredible archery!" Zhong Shan remarked in awe. The power behind that arrow was one thing, but its precision and speed were unmatched. In today''s world, Zhong Shan had seen none better than Luo Xingchen.


    "Sacred King!" The ministers looked at Zhong Shan, awaiting hismand.


    In the distance, Luo Xingchen coldly observed Zhong Shan at the training ground in Changjing.


    "Great Da Jing''s Zhong Shan, was it truly you who killed my disciple?" Luo Xingchen''s eyes shed with cold light.


    It turned out Luo Xingchen was probing Zhong Shan, trying to confirm the circumstances of Luo Tianhe''s death.

 Chapter 895: Zhong Shan Casts a Wide Net for Battle

    <h4>Chapter 895: Zhong Shan Casts a Wide Net for Battle</h4>


    Zhong Shan waved his hand gently, and the protective crowd dispersed, though they remained close, ready to sacrifice themselves for him if necessary. Their loyalty and bravery were evident.


    At this moment, although Luo Xingchen was filled with anger, he couldn''t help but envy Zhong Shan. He looked at Zhong Shan''s subordinates, then at his own. Zhong Shan''s followers were always ready to die for him, always cing themselves in front of him, while his own disciples always hid behind his protection, despite their praise and adoration. In moments of life and death, they relied on him entirely.


    Was the difference between a dojo and a sacred court really that vast?


    Zhong Shan waved his sleeve, lifting his head to look at Luo Xingchen on the distant cloud.


    "Luo Xingchen, is there no one else left in the Spacetime Dojo? Are you the only one seeking revenge for Luo Tianhe?" Zhong Shan said sternly.


    "If you killed Tianhe, there''s nothing more to say. Confirming his cause of death means I no longer have any reservations. Da Jing? Hmph!" Luo Xingchen snorted coldly.


    "No reservations? What do you intend to do?" Zhong Shan responded coldly.


    "Destroy Changjing, annihte Da Jing, kill you, Zhong Shan, and ughter Empress Xianxian!" Luo Xingchen''s tone was icy.


    "Hahahahaha..." Zhong Shanughed heartily.


    "At death''s door, you can stillugh?" Luo Xingchen was taken aback by Zhong Shan''sughter.


    "Luo Xingchen, you truly aren''t suited to be the leader of a sect!" Zhong Shan said seriously.


    "What did you say?" Luo Xingchen''s face darkened.


    "Are you certain about the cause of Luo Tianhe''s death? Liu Wushuang, bring that person here, along with Luo Tianhe''s corpse!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!"


    Soon, Luo Tianhe''s corpse was brought out, along with the man who had apanied him in the assassination attempt on Xianxian, now dragged from Changjing''s prison.


    "Bang!"


    Luo Tianhe''s corpse and the man were thrown to the ground.


    "Master, Master, save me!" the man cried out in terror, clearly having suffered greatly during his time in Changjing.


    "You''re still alive?" Luo Xingchen frowned.


    "Take them with you and interrogate him. See if his story matches what you know. I give you five years to uncover any discrepancies. Five years from now, outside the Zhuanlun Hall, Da Jing will formally challenge you to a life-and-death battle!" Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    "You? A Tianxian, challenging me to a life-and-death battle?" Luo Xingchen''s face twisted with a bizarre expression. Though he had just entered the Ancient Immortal realm, he was still an Ancient Immortal. And Zhong Shan, a mere Tianxian, challenging him to such a battle? It wasughable, a great irony. Did Zhong Shan lose his mind?


    "The arrow you just fired should have given you some insight into my capabilities. In five years, I will announce it to the world. If you seek revenge for Luo Tianhe,e then!" Zhong Shan said, waving his hand to send Luo Tianhe''s corpse and the man flying toward Luo Xingchen.


    "Whoosh!" Luo Xingchen caught them with a flip of his hand.


    At that moment, Luo Xingchen was filled with doubt. It seemed many things differed from what Chen Zihao had said. For instance, the man before him, whom Chen Zihao imed was dead, was clearly alive. And Luo Tianhe''s corpse, which Chen Zihao said Zhong Shan had mutted, was intact.


    Luo Xingchen needed to uncover the truth, for he suddenly had a bad feeling.


    Revenge was a must. However, Luo Xingchen wasn''t foolish; at least in his mind, he wasn''t. He needed to understand the full story before exacting revenge.


    After casting a cold nce at Zhong Shan, Luo Xingchen disappeared with the body and the man.


    "Sacred King, challenging Luo Xingchen to a duel at the Zhuanlun Hall? Isn''t that too dangerous?" Yi Yan asked worriedly.


    "Don''t worry. Ancient Immortal? I have my ways of dealing with him!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Uh?" The ministers were taken aback.


    Does the Sacred King really have such confidence? After all, Luo Xingchen is an Ancient Immortal! How strong is the Sacred King, truly?


    "Sacred King, do you intend to subdue Luo Xingchen?" Xiao Wang asked curiously.


    The ministers were stunned. Could it be true that the Sacred King wanted to recruit Luo Xingchen, the leader of a sect and an Ancient Immortal?


    Zhong Shan looked at Xiao Wang in surprise, then smiled. "You understand me well, Xiao Wang."


    The ministers were puzzled by this exchange.


    "However, is it really possible to subdue Luo Xingchen? He may not be extremely wise, but his pride is immense. Subduing him seems unlikely," Xiao Wang shook his head.


    "Not extremely wise? It''s enough to have ministers with great wisdom. Our Da Ming Sect stillcks a Left Protector. He doesn''t need tomand the armies; being a protector will suit him well," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Why choose him, Sacred King? Is it because of his time maniption ability?" Yi Yan asked.


    Zhong Shan nodded, "Yes. The growth of the Great Da Jing Sacred Court should not rest on one person but on the collective. Those whoe against us need not always be enemies; they can be turned to our side. Besides, the time maniption ability is crucial."


    "Time maniption is indeed rare and invaluable. It''s an extremely difficult ability to master, even for saints. Luo Xingchen''s potential is enormous, and subduing him now would be highly advantageous," Wang Ku agreed.


    "But Zhong Shan, can you really handle him now?" Xianxian asked worriedly.


    "Don''t worry. Since I''ve issued the challenge, I have a way to deal with him. Moreover, we have five years to prepare and aplish many things," Zhong Shan reassured with a smile.


    "That''s good to hear," Xianxian smiled, relieved.


    "Sovereign, since you''ve set the five-year deadline, shall I announce it to the world?" Yi Yan asked, smiling.


    "Do it quickly. Spread the word across the northern Zhuanlun Domain in the shortest time possible to unsettle the powerful," Zhong Shanmanded firmly.


    "Yes!"


    <strong>Great Da Jing Sacred King vs. Spacetime Sect Master!</strong>


    <strong>Zhong Shan vs. Ancient Immortal!</strong>


    <strong>A life-and-death battle outside Zhuanlun Hall in five years!</strong>


    Those who heard the news were in disbelief. It sounded too absurd, almost like a joke. Could Zhong Shan really be challenging an Ancient Immortal?


    In a court of one of the celestial dynasties at war with Da Jing:


    "Your Majesty, I find it increasingly difficult to understand the Great Da Jing Sacred Court," an official said, shaking his head.


    "Oh?"


    "Zhong Shan received the blessings of the heavens and is at most in the Da Xian realm. But the Spacetime Sect Master is an Ancient Immortal with powerful time maniption abilities. Zhong Shan challenging him to a duel is suicide," the official said, perplexed.


    "Apparently, this promation was issued by Zhong Shan himself," another official added.


    The hall fell silent. The news was too bizarre to believe.


    A newly emerged sacred court from a Small Thousand World was expected to be on par with a celestial dynasty of the Great Thousand World. Yet, this Great Da Jing Sacred Court had repeatedly defied expectations. It faced eight celestial dynasties simultaneously, eradicated four sacrednds within two years, and now had the strength to challenge a renowned dojo.


    What kind of joke was this?


    How could Da Jing possess such formidable strength?


    "What do you all think?" the emperor asked calmly.


    "Your Majesty, I believe this is real and advantageous to us!" a minister responded promptly.


    "Oh?"


    "Your Majesty, and esteemed colleagues, consider the oue of this life-and-death battle. Who do you think will win, Zhong Shan or Luo Xingchen?" the minister inquired.


    "Of course, it will be Luo Xingchen. He''s the top expert in the Zhuanlun Domain. How could he lose to a barbarian from a newly emerged Small Thousand World?" another minister said immediately.


    The ministers all voiced their agreement.


    "Exactly. If Zhong Shan dies, can Da Jing continue to exist? Even though the battle is currently a stalemate due to Yi Yan''s strategies, once Zhong Shan is dead, even if Yi Yan possesses extraordinary abilities, what can he do? At that time, the eight celestial dynasties will vie for Da Jing''s territory with ease, facing no significant resistance!" the minister exined.


    "Indeed!" the others echoed.


    "Your Majesty, for now, we should avoid aggressive actions to prevent a desperate counterattack from Da Jing. With four years remaining of the five-year period, once it''s over, we''ll reim all we lost and gain even more territory!" the minister suggested.


    "Wise counsel, Prime Minister!" the ministers praised.


    The emperor nodded in agreement.


    The eight celestial dynasties shared the same thought, which inadvertently made Yi Yan''smand of the eight armies much easier. They conquered more cities and territories faster. Da Jing''s national strength would inevitably grow significantly in these five years, while the eight celestial dynasties would find themselves at a disadvantage due to this oversight.


    Zhong Shan''s strategy was clear. The life-and-death duel not only aimed to settle the score with Luo Xingchen and the Spacetime Dojo but also served as a catalyst for Da Jing''s rapid expansion.


    The news reached the southern Zhuanlun Domain in the second year.


    Wu Xiang Sacred Court, Tianci City


    "This is truly bizarre!" an official reported.


    "The Great Da Jing Sacred King? Such ambition! Eight celestial dynasties, four sacrednds, and now the Spacetime Dojo. He seeks to dominate the north. How could he have such immense power?" the Third Prince asked, filled with disbelief.


    "We cannot fathom it either. A barbarian group newly emerged from a Small Thousand World, possessing such strength? They should only be as strong as a single celestial dynasty. Yet, they waged war against eight celestial dynasties, eradicated four sacrednds, and now are challenging the Spacetime Dojo, intending to duel the top expert of the Zhuanlun Domain? It''s iprehensible!" the official said, bewildered.


    "Da Jing''s defeat would be logical, but its victories align with Zhong Shan''s audacious style. This uing peak duel shows Zhong Shan''s courage, unmatched by many in the Zhuanlun Domain. It appears the Zhuanlun Domain has indeed produced a remarkable talent!" the Third Prince mused.


    "What should we do about this?" the official asked, frowning.


    "I sense a conspiracy, a grand scheme orchestrated by Zhong Shan! Quickly ry this information back to the Wu Xiang Domain and inform the Sacred King. As for the duel at the Zhuanlun Hall, I will attend personally!" the Third Prince dered resolutely.


    "Yes, Your Highness!"

 Chapter 896: Three Battlegrounds

    <h4>Chapter 896: Three Battlegrounds</h4>


    Five years passed quickly, and the time for the decisive battle between the Great Da Jing Sacred Court and the Spacetime Dojo had arrived.


    On this day, Deputy Sect Master Chen Zihao oversaw the Spacetime Dojo, while Luo Xingchen, apanied by his wife and hundreds of powerful members from the dojo, flew towards Zhuanlun Hall.


    "Husband, you''ve been acting strangely these past few years," the sect leader''s wife remarked, puzzled.


    "It''s nothing," Luo Xingchen shook his head, but the gloom between his brows remained.


    "It''s not nothing. There''s definitely something! Tell me, please!" His wife clung to his arm, shaking it.


    Luo Xingchen turned to look at her, his brow deeply furrowed, his eyes revealing a mix of heartbreak and reluctance.


    "Let''s not talk about it now. We''ll deal with it after avenging Tianhe," Luo Xingchen sighed.


    The woman noticed his unusual behavior and asked timidly, "Do you already know? It was I who sent Tianhe to kill Empress Xianxian. I didn''t expect that oue. I was afraid you''d be angry, so I didn''t tell you."


    Luo Xingchen shook his head, remaining silent. His inner turmoil wasn''t just about Luo Tianhe''s death; it was about the rift between him and his wife.


    Five years ago, carrying that suspicion, Luo Xingchen had conducted a thorough investigation. Despite Chen Zihao and his wife behaving impably during these years, Luo Xingchen discovered some unsettling truths.


    He always believed those findings to be false. Even now, he refused to ept them��not because his mental resilience was weak, but because of the depth of his love for his wife. In an instant, it seemed his entire world had changed.


    With a sense of loss, Luo Xingchen followed the predetermined path, hoping to steer his derailed life back on track.


    As Luo Xingchen left the Spacetime Dojo, far away in the forested mountains outside the dojo, three figures stood on a peak��Xianxian, Wang Ku, and the old drunkard.


    "Spacetime Dojo? Another diversion tactic, but I like it!" Xianxian said excitedly.


    It was her first time experiencing such a strategy. She had missed the battles against the Undying Realm and the Longevity Realm in the Small Thousand World.


    "The Spacetime Dojo still has many Da Xian experts. We must be cautious," Wang Ku cautioned.


    "What''s there to fear? My wolf n elites are all here, and Zhong Shan has mobilized many strong warriors from the Da Ming Sect. With you and me, what''s there to worry about? Right, old drunkard?" Xianxian asked.


    The old drunkard, never without his wine, took a swig from his gourd and nodded, "I sense no danger. Rest assured, as soon as the Sacred King gives the order, we can attack the Spacetime Dojo."


    "See, Wang Ku, you can rx. Zhong Shan has everything under control," Xianxian teased.


    Wang Ku remained silent, thinking, The Sacred King sent me along because he doesn''t trust you alone.


    Meanwhile, in the north of the Great Da Jing Sacred Court, the so-called Zhuanlun Hall loomed.


    Zhuanlun Hall was famous for two reasons: it was one of the Ten Halls, and it was nearly inessible. Shrouded in dense ck mist, the area was filled with towering pces, majestic and vast.


    However, these pces were enveloped in the ck mist, which carried a heavy, malevolent aura. The further one ventured in, the more oppressive it became. Prolonged exposure to the mist felt like being engulfed in misfortune.


    Those with lower cultivation dared not approach, while those with higher cultivation could enter but not deeply. Even supreme experts like saints avoided the ce, treating it like the ghost ind in the mortal realm, where the Five-Color Divine Stone sealed the ancient fierce demon, Ghost Car. Zhuanlun Hall seemed to be shrouded in worldly secrets.


    The day of the duel arrived, and the atmosphere around Zhuanlun Hall grew tense. The stakes were high, and the oue would shape the future of the Great Da Jing Sacred Court and the Spacetime Dojo.


    Many powerful beings had distanced themselves from Zhuanlun Hall, avoiding its sinister aura and the potential karmic entanglements associated with it. Zhuanlun Hall remained a mysterious ce shrouded in ck mist, universally avoided.


    However, on this particr day, the periphery of Zhuanlun Hall was surrounded by arge number of strong individuals. Most of the Zhuanlun Domain''s elite had gathered here.


    Zhong Shan challenging the Zhuanlun Domain''s top expert? Such a pinnacle duel was a must-see for anyone hoping to gain insight that could surpass centuries of closed-door cultivation.


    This battle was neither in Changjing nor at the Spacetime Dojo, meaning no one could leverage the power of fortune or merit. It would alle down to pure skill.


    Zhong Shan arrived early.


    Seated on the floating Nine Dragon Sky Chair, Zhong Shan sat in amanding posture, surrounded by key ministers and arge contingent of Da Jing''s military. With his eyes closed, Zhong Shan awaited Luo Xingchen''s arrival.


    In the distance, atop a mountain peak, stood five individuals, including the Third Prince of the Wu Xiang Sacred Court.


    "Third Prince, is this Zhong Shan really that powerful?" one of them asked.


    "He''s a Tianxian, Eighth Heaven," the Third Prince replied, frowning.


    "What?" The others were shocked, looking at the Third Prince in disbelief.


    They couldn''t understand. The Third Prince himself was also conflicted. What was Zhong Shan doing? A Tianxian? Just in the Tianxian realm? The Eighth Heaven? And he wanted to challenge Luo Xingchen?


    The difference was not just in realms but in two entire levels. Where did Zhong Shan get his confidence?


    "Third Prince? Is he really a Tianxian, Eighth Heaven? How is that possible?"


    "Do I need to lie to you?" the Third Prince retorted, frowning.


    "Yes, my apologies, Your Highness," the man quickly replied.


    The Third Prince didn''t me his subordinate. This situation was unprecedented. A Tianxian-level Sacred King? That was indeed the weakest Sacred King in history. But would the weakest Sacred King dare challenge Luo Xingchen?


    The inexplicability of it all made the Third Prince even more solemn.


    "Whoosh!"


    A gust of wind blew, and suddenly hundreds of people appeared in the void.


    Luo Xingchen, in his blue robe, arrived with his wife and numerous disciples of the Spacetime Dojo. They all gathered outside Zhuanlun Hall.


    From a distance, Luo Xingchen coldly stared at Zhong Shan. At that moment, Zhong Shan, who had been waiting with closed eyes, suddenly opened them. A spark of lightning shot from his eyes, meeting Luo Xingchen''s gaze.


    Zhong Shan stood up, and the Nine Dragon Sky Chair vanished. He waved his hand lightly, and Yi Yan behind him bowed slightly, seemingly receiving Zhong Shan''smand.


    Simultaneously, far away outside the Spacetime Dojo, in the valley.


    "Zhong Shan''s order has arrived. Quick, everyone get ready. Follow me to attack the Spacetime Dojo!" Xianxian shouted excitedly.


    Back at Zhuanlun Hall, Zhong Shan and Luo Xingchen faced each other coldly. The appointed time for the duel had arrived.


    Luo Xingchen, however, was still puzzled as to what gave Zhong Shan the confidence to challenge him.


    "Five years have passed. Sect Master Luo Xingchen, have you gathered all the information?" Zhong Shan asked calmly.


    "Zhong Shan, I don''t understand your confidence. You, a mere Tianxian, dare to challenge an Ancient Immortal?" Luo Xingchen replied, his tone icy and full of contempt.


    "Confidencees from understanding," Zhong Shan responded. "Five years is plenty of time to uncover the truth, don''t you think?"


    Luo Xingchen''s eyes flickered with uncertainty. Five years of investigation had unearthed many truths and inconsistencies, especially regarding the details provided by Chen Zihao. Luo Xingchen had begun to question everything, including his own motivations and the integrity of those around him. But now, face to face with Zhong Shan, his resolve was clouded by doubt and the weight of potential betrayal.


    "Let''s see how your understanding fares against reality," Luo Xingchen said, preparing for the imminent sh.


    Luo Xingchen''s pupils contracted as he coldly stared at Zhong Shan.


    "Investigate? Husband, what are you talking about?" Chen Xiaoqian asked in confusion.


    "Where did you get your information?" Luo Xingchen''s brows furrowed deeply. Despite his reluctance to admit it, he felt deeply ufortable. Why was this happening?


    "Husband, what''s going on?"


    From a distance, Zhong Shan nced at Chen Xiaoqian, making her feel as though their conversation was directly rted to her.


    "Where did I get my information? Does that even need investigation? Everyone in the Spacetime Dojo knows, or rather, many people in the Zhuanlun Domain know. It''s only you who''s in the dark," Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "Husband, what are you talking about?" Chen Xiaoqian asked worriedly, grasping Luo Xingchen''s arm.


    "Bang!"


    Luo Xingchen gently shook off Chen Xiaoqian''s hand. Without answering her, he stared intently at Zhong Shan.


    Everyone knows? Only I didn''t?


    "Haha, hahaha, hahahaha..." Luo Xingchenughed bitterly.


    "Husband!" Chen Xiaoqian''s expression changed repeatedly.


    "Zhong Shan, no matter what, Luo Tianhe died because of you. Killing my disciple demands a life for a life. This is the life-and-death battle you announced to the world. You deserve to die!" Luo Xingchen said angrily, seemingly transferring all his rage onto Zhong Shan.


    "A life-and-death battle means one of us must die. Either the Great Da Jing Sacred Court will fall, or the Spacetime Dojo will be destroyed. I know you''re troubled inside. Come, let''s have a fierce battle! Unleash your five years of anger. Show me how valuable you, Luo Xingchen, really are!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    In the distance, the Third Prince was perplexed.


    "What''s with Zhong Shan''s tone? I''m familiar with this kind of tone. The Wu Xiang Sacred King uses it when trying to recruit new ministers. Is Zhong Shan trying to subdue Luo Xingchen? This seems reversed!" The Third Prince thought.


    The scene was indeed bizarre. Evaluating ''Luo Xingchen''s value'' should logically be something Luo Xingchen would say to Zhong Shan.


    The Third Prince and the surrounding experts found the situation increasingly strange.


    With a wave of his sleeve, Zhong Shan''s followers retreated, ready for the impending battle. A pinnacle duel between the Sacred King and the Sect Master.


    Luo Xingchen, feeling deeply agitated, did not refute Zhong Shan''s tone. Seeing Zhong Shan dismiss his subordinates, Luo Xingchen did the same.


    "Husband, I believe in you. Defeat him!" Chen Xiaoqian encouraged Luo Xingchen.


    Looking at his beloved wife, Luo Xingchen felt a suffocating pain in his chest, as if torn apart. Was everything an illusion? Was it all fake? Why did he still yearn to live within this illusion?


    The members of the Spacetime Dojo retreated to a distance.


    In a vast open area, only Zhong Shan and Luo Xingchen remained. To the east was the ck mist-shrouded Zhuanlun Hall, surrounded by numerous onlookers.


    The battle was about to erupt!


    At this moment, Xianxian led arge number of warriors into the Spacetime Dojo.


    While Xianxian''s n was to use the diversion tactic, Zhong Shan himself was also drawn away.


    Far from the capital Changjing, atop a mountain peak, representatives from the eight celestial dynasties at war with Da Jing had gathered.


    "Is everyone here?" someone asked.


    "The eight celestial dynasties stand united against amon enemy. How could they note? The battle at Zhuanlun Hall is about to begin; it''s our time to act!"


    "Not yet. Wait until noon to prevent any unforeseen changes," another replied cautiously.


    Meanwhile, outside the Immortal Hall in Changjing, Nangong Sheng and Xiao Wang stood with their hands behind their backs.


    "They''ve arrived?" Xiao Wang asked.


    "Yes, eight Da Xian, three hundred Tianxian, and eight hundred Dixian. These are the strongest generals of the eight celestial dynasties. If they don''t return, the morale of the eight celestial dynasties will plummet. Coupled with the news of the Sacred King''s victory over Luo Xingchen, they will have no chance of recovery," Nangong Sheng said gravely.


    "How confident are you in your formation?" Xiao Wang asked.


    "This formation is called the ''Heavenly Cmity Chessboard,''" Nangong Sheng replied with a smile.


    "Oh? The Heavenly Cmity Chessboard? Isn''t that...?" Xiao Wang frowned.


    "Yes, it''s the same formation from the mortal realm. Although I broke it before, it wasn''t easy to decipher. Over the years, I''ve studied it extensively, finding it increasingly intricate. The creator of this formation possessed exceptional wisdom. No one from the eight celestial dynasties will escape; not a single one!" Nangong Sheng said with determination.


    "Alright."


    As they spoke, thick clouds began to spread from all directions outside Changjing. Even the high skies started to flicker with lightning, resembling the scene when Zhong Shan broke Su Daji''s Heavenly Cmity Chessboard, a vast and boundless disy of cmity.


    In the distance, the waiting strongmen from the eight celestial dynasties furrowed their brows.


    "Something''s wrong. Why did the weather suddenly change?"


    "Look at that mountain; why did it turn ck?"


    "And over there, why is that mountain pure white? Something''s not right!"


    "We''ve been tricked; this is a grand formation!" said a man knowledgeable about formations.


    "A grand formation? Commander Liu, you have the highest understanding of formations. What is this formation?" the others asked, turning to a man.


    The man, Commander Liu, was sweating profusely, his eyes filled with panic.


    "A formation of heavenly cmities, a catastrophic grand formation. How is this possible? This level of formation shouldn''t exist in a Small Thousand World. It''s too terrifying," Commander Liu said, trembling.


    "Commander Liu, what''s going on? Speak!"


    "We can''t escape. There''s no way out. We''re trapped!" Commander Liu said in horror.


    "We''re trapped? Then we''ll destroy Changjing. The formation will break naturally. We have so many strong warriors; I refuse to believe we can''t take down a small city like Changjing!" another man shouted.


    "You can''t escape. It''s best not to move. Don''t move!" Commander Liu said with a grim expression.


    "Coward!" another man snorted, flying into the sky.


    "Everyone, follow me! Destroy Changjing!" the man shouted, leading the charge toward Changjing.


    At that moment, from the distant stars, golden lightning formed from the power of the stars descended like a roaring sea.


    It was too fast, descending in an instant.


    "General Ma, watch out!" several people shouted.


    General Ma saw the terrifying golden light descending from the sky.


    "Damn it!"


    "Boom!!!"


    General Ma raised a massive shield, but it shattered instantly. General Ma, who had just flown up, fell to the ground, bing a clear example of absolute defeat.


    "What kind of grand formation is this?" The others were stunned, their jaws nearly dropping in disbelief.

 Chapter 897: Time Suspension

    <h4>Chapter 897: Time Suspension</h4>


    Outside Zhuanlun Hall, the battle was about to erupt!


    Yi Yan nced at the center of the battlefield, then turned to look at the people from the Spacetime Dojo. With a wave of his hand, the Da Jing army seemed to swiftly reposition themselves, subtly moving towards Chen Xiaoqian.


    No one paid much attention to the Da Jing army since almost everyone''s focus was on the battlefield''s center, where Zhong Shan and Luo Xingchen stood in the void.


    Luo Xingchen stared at Zhong Shan as if scrutinizing him, filled with countless doubts.


    "The life-and-death battle begins!" Zhong Shan dered nonchntly.


    Zhong Shan slightly raised his arms.


    "Boom!"


    The surroundings suddenly erupted with blue light. Around Zhong Shan and Luo Xingchen, streams of blue energy swirled and rotated rapidly, causing Luo Xingchen''s expression to change slightly.


    Externally, a simr phenomenon urred. As Zhong Shan raised his arms, a massive suction force seemed to emerge around the battlefield. The area turned a deep blue, spinning wildly. A towering blue column of light shot up into the sky, dominating everyone''s view.


    The terrifying suction appeared to draw everyone towards it. The endless malevolent aura of Zhuanlun Hall surged into the blue column of light.


    Those with lower cultivation retreated repeatedly, their faces filled with uncertainty and fear.


    "What is this? What''s happening?"


    "It''s something Zhong Shan conjured. That initial gesture, it''s unmistakable��it''s Zhong Shan!"


    "I know what this is!" someone gulped.


    "A reincarnation channel! This is a reincarnation channel!"


    Upon hearing the conclusion, the strong warriors retreated in horror. A reincarnation channel��would they enter the cycle of reincarnation, reborn anew, or be crushed into nothingness?


    Everyone was stunned. The Great Da Jing Sacred King could open a reincarnation channel. Was this a divine ability? It was unbelievably powerful!


    In the distance, at the Wu Xiang Sacred Court''s Third Prince''s location:


    "A reincarnation channel? It really is a reincarnation channel! Third Prince, how can Zhong Shan open a reincarnation channel?"


    "Could it be a reincarnation artifact?"


    "No, Zhong Shan opened it himself. In this world, only one lineage can so easily open a reincarnation channel!"


    "The Reincarnation Saint?"


    "Is Zhong Shan a disciple of the Reincarnation Saint? The Reincarnation Saint''s influence is far-reaching," the Third Prince said gravely.


    Almost everyone was shocked by the vast reincarnation channel.


    Vast? It wasn''t vast at all. In this situation, Zhong Shan could even maintain a bnce, his consumption and recovery matching perfectly. This was the ability of a Tianxian!


    Inside the reincarnation channel, the immense reincarnation force circled Zhong Shan and Luo Xingchen rapidly, seemingly trying to pull Luo Xingchen into the bottomless depths of reincarnation.


    But who was Luo Xingchen? A dignified Ancient Immortal, even mastering the time divine ability. This suction force was nothing to him. Luo Xingchen was confident he could break through the reincarnation channel and escape if necessary.


    At this moment, Luo Xingchen seemed to understand Zhong Shan''s purpose. He coldly looked at Zhong Shan and said, "Now that no one is watching, is there anything you want to say?"


    "Isn''t it you who has something to say?" Zhong Shan replied with a faint smile.


    "That person, was he arranged by you?" Luo Xingchen asked after a moment of silence.


    Zhong Shan looked deeply at Luo Xingchen and nodded, "Yes, it was my arrangement. It was to let you see the true nature of the Spacetime Dojo, to see your wife and the deputy leader clearly. It''s been five years, have you seen clearly?"


    Luo Xingchen coldly stared at Zhong Shan.


    "I know you don''t want to see these things, nor do you want to believe them, but it''s the truth. A man''s brilliance oftenes from his ''feelings,'' but you need to see clearly if this belongs to you. If you can''t control it, you will only be hurt by it. Chen Xiaoqian is not a suitable match for you," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Enough!"


    "Chen Xiaoqian, I love her. So what if she schemes against me? I still love her. It''s none of your business," Luo Xingchen shouted.


    "Passionate and sincere, very well! A man with true feelings is admirable! Many have been hurt by their emotions. My wife was killed by someone, and at that time, I was nothing but an ant. For her, I havee this far. My enemy is not yet dead, my revenge not yetplete, but I firmly believe that one day I willpletely annihte my enemy. I strive tirelessly for my goal. What about you? Since you''ve chosen Chen Xiaoqian, do you have ns for the future?" Zhong Shan asked calmly.


    "I said, it''s none of your business. State your purpose! Such a grand disy, a life-and-death battle? I don''t believe it needed to be dragged out for five years," Luo Xingchen said coldly.


    "To evaluate you!" Zhong Shan replied seriously.


    "Evaluate?" Luo Xingchen frowned.


    "To see if you are qualified to join Da Jing!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Join Da Jing? To be your subject? Hahahaha..." Luo Xingchenughed, hisughter filled with ridicule.


    "Humph, you want me to join Da Jing? You must be dreaming. Until today, I never thought a Tianxian would dare speak to me like this!" Luo Xingchen''s tone was filled with killing intent.


    "Because I am stronger than you! That''s why I can say such things!" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Stronger? In what way are you stronger?" Luo Xingchen''s eyes shed with disdain.


    "In every aspect. The Great Da Jing Sacred Court belongs to me alone. Is the Spacetime Dojo yours alone? My wives love only me. What about your wife? I, Zhong Shan, am destined to be the ''master.'' You, Luo Xingchen, are destined to be the ''follower.'' If you overstep, you will be unable to control what you possess, just like now. Can you truly control everything you have?" Zhong Shan''s words struck deeply.


    "If there were a mortal stronger than you now, would you submit to him?" Luo Xingchen retorted disdainfully.


    "I wouldn''t, because I am the strongest!" Zhong Shan said resolutely.


    "You''re the strongest? Hahaha!" Luo Xingchen sneered even more.


    "I am the peak of all mountains in the world! An empire and a sect are different. In the Small Thousand World, there is a saying: ''Every great Yanjing has the courage to create the world.'' It means that a mature emperor will not lose to anyone psychologically, not even to a saint. Do you dare?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    Luo Xingchen''s eyes narrowed.


    "You don''t dare, but I do. That''s why I am the strongest!" Zhong Shan said with unwavering certainty.


    "Ridiculous! Courage alone means nothing. In the face of power, all your words are nonsense!" Luo Xingchen said coldly.


    "That''s precisely what I mean. The way of the emperor is something you can never understand. I have tested your character; now let me test your strength to see if you are qualified to join Da Jing!" Zhong Shan said calmly.


    Luo Xingchen, now taking Zhong Shan seriously, had put away his previous disdain.


    A Tianxian? Such a vast reincarnation channel��could a Tianxian truly control this? It was said that emperors were the best at hiding their true strength. It seemed this was indeed the case.


    "Hmph, an evaluation? An evaluation that requires risking my life? I, Luo Xingchen, will never submit to anyone!" Luo Xingchen said coldly.


    With a sh, he charged at Zhong Shan. His speed, as expected of an Ancient Immortal, was terrifyingly fast.


    "Whoosh!"


    But Zhong Shan''s speed was not slow either; he disappeared from his original position in an instant.


    A Tianxian? How could a Tianxian have such speed? This was the speed of an Ancient Immortal!


    Zhong Shan''s shadow body was incredibly fast, catching Luo Xingchen off guard. It wasn''t that Luo Xingchen''s speed was inferior, but he hadn''t anticipated Zhong Shan being this absurdly fast.


    The speed was on par with an Ancient Immortal!


    This made Luo Xingchen doubt his initial judgment. Zhong Shan couldn''t possibly be a Tianxian! How could a Tianxian achieve such speed?


    But Zhong Shan''s cultivation was clear��how could he not be?


    "Time Reversal!"


    Luo Xingchen shouted, and the blue gemstone on his forehead emitted a dazzling blue light. Suddenly, the space in front of him seemed to distort, and Zhong Shan''s speed drastically decreased.


    It wasn''t that Zhong Shan''s speed had decreased. He knew he was still moving just as fast, but the time around him had slowed. His speed felt reduced because time itself had slowed.


    It was as if moving a hundred meters per second had be moving a hundred meters every two seconds. His speed was effectively halved.


    Time maniption��a terrifying ability.


    "Boom!"


    Luo Xingchen grabbed Zhong Shan''s shoulder with one hand, while his right hand, glowing with blue light, formed a w and struck at Zhong Shan''s chest.


    Zhong Shan was horrified to find that the time around him seemed to freeze. The void itself was suspended in time; nothing moved except Luo Xingchen, who maintained his original speed.


    "Boom!"


    The w pierced through Zhong Shan''s chest. In this moment of time suspension, Luo Xingchen''s time maniption showed its terrifying power.


    Zhong Shan had no defense. He was struck through the chest, and with the power of an Ancient Immortal, he exploded.


    A single, fatal blow. Luo Xingchen was too overwhelming!


    When Luo Xingchen engaged in battle, he became incredibly serious. Even as blood sttered on his face, his killing intent remained intense.


    Zhong Shan was dead?


    No, the reincarnation channel was still active. Zhong Shan wasn''t dead!


    Luo Xingchen was startled. Zhong Shan wasn''t dead? Indeed, as he looked again at the blood on himself, it had mysteriously vanished.


    The Great Da Jing Sacred King? Zhong Shan! Luo Xingchen frowned deeply.


    "Whoosh!"


    Not far away, a shadow flickered, and Zhong Shan reappeared.


    "Time maniption, ranked ninth among the divine abilities of the Great Thousand World. It truly lives up to its reputation! Impressive, very impressive!" Zhong Shan said, admiring Luo Xingchen''s divine ability the moment he reappeared.


    The ninth-ranked divine ability? Indeed, it had unique aspects. It was incredibly powerful. Luo Xingchen had only just begun toprehend time maniption, and it seemed limited to a small area. If it could be expanded, with time maniption stopping everything, wouldn''t all the world''s powerful beings be at his mercy?


    "You''re not dead?" Luo Xingchen said, his eyes narrowing as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    "You underestimate me," Zhong Shan replied, a slight smile on his lips.

 Chapter 898: Spacetime Dojo, Erased from the World

    <h4>Chapter 898: Spacetime Dojo, Erased from the World</h4>


    "Time maniption, ranked ninth among the divine abilities of the Great Thousand World. Truly, it lives up to its reputation! Impressive, very impressive!" Zhong Shanmented the moment he reappeared, admiring Luo Xingchen''s divine ability.


    The ninth divine ability? Indeed, it had unique aspects and was incredibly powerful. Luo Xingchen had only just begun toprehend time maniption, seemingly limited to a small area. If expanded to arger scope, time maniption could stop everything, leaving the world''s strongest at his mercy.


    "What is this divine ability of yours? Why are you still alive after I''ve clearly killed you? Is it an external incarnation?" Luo Xingchen asked, frowning.


    Zhong Shan didn''t answer Luo Xingchen but instead savored the experience. Time suspension��the feeling of everything being frozen was like a temporal cage, inescapable.


    Such a powerful divine ability. It was said that in ancient times, Hongjun Daozu was a mighty saint capable of manipting time. Even with such an impressive divine ability, it ranked only ninth in the Great Thousand World. How strong must the top eight be?


    As for how Zhong Shan resurrected, it was simple. His shadow body had shadow clones. Destroy one, and another would remain. If Zhong Shan didn''t want to reveal too much, hundreds of Zhong Shans could have appeared within the reincarnation channel.


    "Time Reversal!"


    Seeing Zhong Shan not answering, Luo Xingchen decided to verify it himself. With his powerful time maniption, the time suspension ability made Zhong Shan feel everything around him freeze again. Nothing moved, not even his heartbeat.


    Luo Xingchen''s powerful w once again pierced Zhong Shan''s chest.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan exploded again, but the reincarnation channel remained.


    Luo Xingchen frowned deeply. At this moment, he finally took Zhong Shan seriously, no longer seeing him as a mere Tianxian but as someone on par with himself.


    In the distance, Zhong Shan''s shadow clone reappeared.


    "Arrow Realm!"


    Luo Xingchen shouted, and golden arrows suddenly appeared from all directions, surrounding the reincarnation channel with countless golden arrows, densely packed.


    An arrow realm��this was Luo Xingchen''s ''world''?


    Outside, numerous strong individuals watched the battlefield intently.


    But from the moment Zhong Shan activated the reincarnation channel, nothing could be seen inside.


    While people marveled at Zhong Shan''s power, they were more interested in seeing the two inside. Unfortunately, the reincarnation channel obscured everything.


    Observers could only judge the battle''s progress by time.


    As time passed, their belief in Zhong Shan''s strength grew. Luo Xingchen, an Ancient Immortal with time maniption, the Zhuanlun Domain''s top expert, had been battling for half an hour without a decisive oue, indicating a fierce fight.


    The continuous existence of the reincarnation channel suggested that Zhong Shan had the upper hand.


    Zhong Shan having the upper hand? Many found it unbelievable. Was Da Jing really a neer from the Small Thousand World? How could they be so strong?


    Meanwhile, the experts from the eight celestial dynasties fighting against Da Jing frowned deeply, realizing they had severely underestimated Zhong Shan.


    As everyone waited, suddenly, the reincarnation channel''s periphery shone with golden light.


    "Boom!"


    A terrifying explosion erupted, and the distant reincarnation channel abruptly vanished, or rather, was enveloped by the immense golden light.


    In the aftermath, as the golden light dissipated, the battlefield reappeared. Luo Xingchen stood with a fierce expression, surrounded by remnants of his arrow realm, while Zhong Shan stood calmly, seemingly unscathed.


    "Your divine ability is impressive, Luo Xingchen, but it''s time for you to make a choice," Zhong Shan dered firmly, his voice resonating with authority and resolve.


    The golden light pierced the sky, creating a massive pir that faintly revealed numerous golden arrows.


    "This is the Sect Master''s Arrow Realm!" Chen Xiaoqian frowned.


    "Zhong Shan is actually this strong? He forced the Sect Master to use the Arrow Realm?"


    "The Sect Master is invincible. No one can defeat him!"


    ...


    Spection ran rampant outside. The internal battle was undoubtedly intense.


    Indeed, the battle was fierce. The manifestation of an Ancient Immortal''s world enveloped Zhong Shan''s reincarnation channel.


    Standing within the reincarnation channel, Zhong Shan could see the countless arrows outside, each imbued with a subtle time attribute, reminiscent of the arrows from Luo Tianhe''s previous ambush.


    Thousands of arrows shot towards the center, aiming directly at the reincarnation channel.


    Perhaps now within the Ancient Immortal''s ''world,'' the reincarnation channel grew weaker, seemingly on the verge of disappearing entirely.


    Luo Xingchen looked at Zhong Shan from a distance, his forehead glowing blue. Zhong Shan suddenly found himself immobilized again. This time, Luo Xingchen did not attack but coldly observed.


    "Reverse!"


    With a shout from Luo Xingchen, Zhong Shan became blurred, transforming into a shadow and shooting towards Luo Xingchen.


    "Boom!"


    Luo Xingchen struck the shadow, dispersing it, then recoiled in shock.


    "You... you..." Luo Xingchen broke into a cold sweat.


    He nced at his previous position, where a faint shadow was now forming into the shape of Zhong Shan.


    "You''ve been hiding in my shadow all along?" Luo Xingchen''s eyelids twitched uncontrobly.


    The revealed Zhong Shan stretched his neck, sighing in admiration. "You actually found me! I''m growing more fond of time maniption!"


    Rather than being disappointed at being discovered, Zhong Shan seemed excited.


    This was the first time someone had located him.


    "The main body has appeared. Do you have any other tricks?" Luo Xingchen asked coldly.


    Zhong Shan''s eerie abilities had left Luo Xingchen deeply unsettled. Hiding in shadows��how could such a terrifying power exist? Was this a divine ability?


    Most importantly, Luo Xingchen hadn''t noticed Zhong Shan''s presence until now. Without the Arrow Realm and time maniption, even an Ancient Immortal wouldn''t have detected him. If Zhong Shan had decided to ambush, how terrifying would that be?


    Luo Xingchen felt a chill run down his spine. For some reason, he suddenly had an urge to avoid Zhong Shan at all costs.


    Zhong Shan looked at Luo Xingchen calmly and said, "Citizens of the Great Da Jing Sacred Court, raise your right hands and lend me your strength!"


    Luo Xingchen''s pupils contracted.


    Borrowing the power of the Da Jing nation? How was that possible?


    This wasn''t even Changjing. How could Zhong Shan tap into the power of the entire Da Jing nation here?


    Yet, Zhong Shan did it. His voice suddenly echoed in the hearts of all Da Jing citizens, through some peculiar transmission method. Zhong Shan seeded.


    "The Sacred King''s voice?"


    "The Sacred King needs strength!"


    "Raise your right hand!"


    All of Da Jing resounded with countless voices of support. In Da Jing, Zhong Shan was a god, the deity in everyone''s heart. As the people raised their hands, the sea of Qi in Changjing surged wildly, and immense energy was transmitted into Zhong Shan''s body.


    Luo Xingchen''s eyes were filled with doubt and disbelief.


    As Zhong Shan grew stronger, the reincarnation channel suddenly received a massive boost of support.


    "Boom!"


    The vast reincarnation channel expanded by ten thousand times in diameter.


    In an instant, the reincarnation channel, which had been engulfed by the Arrow Realm, returned with overwhelming force, enveloping the Arrow Realm in turn.


    Outside, people initially saw the endless golden light and arrows, assuming the battle was over.


    With the appearance of the Arrow Realm, who couldpete? The reincarnation channel waspletely surrounded; no matter how strong Zhong Shan was, he couldn''t escape.


    "The Reincarnation Saint must be anxious now. He finally cultivated a Sacred King disciple, and now he''s lost!" The Third Prince showed an excited expression.


    "Boom!"


    A loud explosion sent a shockwave through everyone''s hearts.


    The vast reincarnation channel reappeared, its terrifying suction destroying surrounding mountains. Some nearby cultivators were sucked in without any resistance.


    In terror, people quickly retreated to the outer edges.


    The reincarnation channel expanded ten thousand times in diameter, astonishing countless onlookers whose mouths formed an ''o'' shape.


    "Impossible! How did the reincarnation channel be sorge in an instant? Only the two main disciples of the Reincarnation Saint can achieve this. But Zhong Shan isn''t one of them. How can this be?" The Third Prince was horrified.


    Among the onlookers were citizens of Da Jing, and someone spread the news.


    "The Sacred King is borrowing power?"


    "Zhong Shan is borrowing power? This isn''t even Changjing. How can he borrow the power of Da Jing?"


    "Why is this happening? How can Zhong Shan do this?"


    ...


    People didn''t understand, but Zhong Shan indeed achieved it.


    The terrifying power of reincarnation increased madly. The ground trembled, the sky shook. The power of reincarnation was terrifying, and so was Zhong Shan of Da Jing!


    Inside the reincarnation channel, Luo Xingchen''s Arrow Realm was thoroughly overwhelmed.


    With Zhong Shan borrowing power, the reincarnation channel''s strength surged again.


    For a moment, the terrifying suction seemed unbearable even for Luo Xingchen.


    "You understand thews of time and space? How is that possible?" Luo Xingchen asked incredulously.


    "This is why you can''t be a ''master.'' You don''t know anything. If you had truly investigated, you would know. In the Small Thousand World, during the battle with Kong Lietian at the two-world junction, Kong Lietian used the Yuanshi Banner to achieve this effect. With Da Jing''s talents and hundreds of years of research, how could this challenge remain unsolved? Thews of time and space? By integrating a life-bound artifact with the Qi of Changjing, I can mobilize the power of all Da Jing nearby!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    Luo Xingchen squinted his eyes, acknowledging, "I admit I underestimated you. Even without understanding thews of time and space, you''ve managed to figure this out. Even if you die now, I admire you! However, just as you can borrow Da Jing''s power, I can also borrow the power of the Spacetime Dojo!"


    "You have the time divine ability, so naturally, you can do this. Go ahead!" Zhong Shan said with a calm smile.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''sposure, Luo Xingchen suddenly had a bad premonition.


    "Power of Spacetime!" Luo Xingchen said softly.


    Suddenly, his expression changed to one of disbelief.


    "What''s happening?" Luo Xingchen''s eyes showed anxiety.


    "What''s happening? Your Spacetime Dojo has been razed to the ground. From now on, the Spacetime Dojo is erased from the world!" Zhong Shan dered firmly.

 Chapter 899: The Unfathomable Zhong Shan

    <h4>Chapter 899: The Unfathomable Zhong Shan</h4>


    "How could this be? Your Spacetime Dojo has been razed to the ground. From now on, the Spacetime Dojo is erased from the world!" Zhong Shan dered firmly.


    "Razed to the ground? Impossible! Your Da Jing doesn''t have the power to simultaneously confront the eight celestial dynasties and also annihte the Spacetime Dojo in such a short time!" Luo Xingchen''s eyes were filled with disbelief.


    "Confront the eight celestial dynasties? Do you think we still need to deal with them now? Almost all of Da Jing''s elites are concentrated at your Spacetime Dojo��every elite wolf warrior, nearly all the powerful figures from the Great Bright Temple. I, Zhong Shan, whomand the Small Thousand World, am absolutely not inferior to your Grand Thousand World''s ordinary dojos. Three thousand Tianxians! Isn''t that enough to destroy you?" Zhong Shan dered with utmost confidence.


    "Three thousand Tianxians? How can your Da Jing have three thousand Tianxians? Da Jing has been established for less than a thousand years. In the Small Thousand World, those who reach the twelfth level of Tianxian are exceedingly rare. How can you have three thousand?" Luo Xingchen''s eyes showed extreme disbelief.


    Three thousand Tianxians��this might not be a significant number in the Grand Thousand World, but in the Small Thousand World, it was astounding. To produce even ten Tianxians would be remarkable, but three thousand? In such a short time?


    How could Da Jing possess such strength?


    That''s because Da Jing had heavenly demons��beings controlled for refining the heart and cultivation. Using immeasurable merit and boundless Qi to refine the body and the resources of Da Jing to cultivate techniques and Tao, producing arge number of powerful figures in a short time was not difficult, especially for those with exceptional talent.


    For thest two hundred years, although just two centuries, due to the effects of Qi and merit, their cultivation speed was dozens of times faster, equivalent to nearly ten thousand years of cultivation, along with the heart-refining methods of Huan Ji''s heavenly demons.


    Three thousand Tianxians! More than enough for Zhong Shan to conquer the Zhuanlun Domain.


    The eight celestial dynasties? Even if all their Tianxiansbined amounted to three thousand, it would be impressive. Why would Zhong Shan fear them?


    "Even so, three thousand Tianxians wouldn''t be enough to destroy my Spacetime Dojo in such a short time," Luo Xingchen said incredulously.


    "What about with help from inside the Spacetime Dojo?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "What do you mean? You bribed someone inside my Spacetime Dojo?"


    Reaching this conclusion, Luo Xingchen felt a chill. Yes, wasn''t it Zhong Shan''s informants who revealed the matter about his wife?


    Internal cooperation meant the Spacetime Dojo was caught off guard. Even if many members of the dojo survived, the dojo itself was destroyed, and with the Great Bright Temple''s Spirit Tower not taken away by Zhong Shan, seizing the merit, the Spacetime Dojo fell instantly.


    Luo Xingchen''s eyes turned slightly red. His wife''s betrayal, his disciple''s death, the disloyalty of his followers, and the destruction of his dojo��all of this ignited a raging fire in Luo Xingchen''s heart.


    Was he really that much of a failure?


    No, it was all because of Zhong Shan. If not for him, the dojo wouldn''t have fallen, his disciple wouldn''t have died. Luo Xingchen even forcibly med his wife''s betrayal on Zhong Shan, as if all his misfortunes stemmed from him.


    Seeing through Luo Xingchen''s thoughts, Zhong Shan shook his head. "It''s useless. These problems have been umting for a long time. Even without me, they would have surfaced sooner orter."


    "No! If I kill you and destroy Da Jing, my Spacetime Dojo will be restored!" Luo Xingchen said coldly.


    "You are not my match!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Time Reversal!"


    Luo Xingchen let out a roar, initiating another time suspension.


    As time halted, the void became still, as if everything had frozen. Luo Xingchen''s figure flickered as he charged towards Zhong Shan, aiming a fierce strike at him.


    "Whoosh!" Zhong Shan swiftly moved, escaping the suspended time zone. Luo Xingchen''s strike hit nothing but air.


    Luo Xingchen''s eyes twitched in disbelief as he turned to look at Zhong Shan.


    "How did you escape? How did you get out?" Luo Xingchen asked, genuinely shocked.


    For the first time, Luo Xingchen found his supposedly invincible time maniption had been rendered ineffective. The time prison��how had Zhong Shan escaped from it?


    "It''s useless. Time maniption may be powerful, but it''s ineffective against me. Luo Xingchen, I ask you now, will you join my Da Jing?" Zhong Shan formally invited.


    Luo Xingchen was still in a state of shock and disbelief, unable to fathom how Zhong Shan had escaped. To break the time prison, one needed immense power to shatter the void, yet Zhong Shan hadn''t shattered the void��he had simply walked out. Could it be that Zhong Shan also understood time maniption?


    Of course, Zhong Shan didn''t. His escape from the time prison was due to his shadow body, which ignored any formations and could bypass the time prison.


    In every aspect, Zhong Shan seemed to have the upper hand over Luo Xingchen: wealth,panions, techniques, and territory.


    This realization dealt a heavy blow to Luo Xingchen.


    Looking down at Luo Xingchen, Zhong Shan''s gaze was cold and pressing.


    As he stared at Zhong Shan, Luo Xingchen realized howughable his previous thoughts were��this wasn''t just a lucky individual from the Small Thousand World or a mere Tianxian. Zhong Shan was nowpelling him to submit.


    It was impossible. Luo Xingchen''s pride couldn''t be broken by a single defeat.


    "Time Reversal!" The blue gemstone on Luo Xingchen''s forehead shed continuously.


    Time after time, he trapped Zhong Shan in a suspended time zone.


    But ''time suspension'' was not the same as ''time stop''! This crucial distinction meant the difference between heaven and earth. Luo Xingchen was far from achieving true time stop; he could only create a time prison.


    No prison could hold Zhong Shan!


    Luo Xingchen''s formidable divine ability was rendered futile, time after time.


    "Roar!"


    Luo Xingchen let out a long howl, blue light radiating from his body, his hair floating behind him.


    "What''s this? Do you have another technique?" Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes.


    The abilities Luo Xingchen had already disyed were impressive enough to satisfy Zhong Shan. Did he have an even stronger technique?


    "I can''t deny that you, Zhong Shan, are the strongest opponent I''ve ever faced. If it were before myst retreat, I would have had no chance of victory. But during myst retreat, Iprehended a great technique, one I haven''t fully mastered yet. But the pride of an Ancient Immortal cannot be extinguished. You, a mere Tianxian, think you can subdue me? Dream on! Today, either you die or I perish!" Luo Xingchen roared.


    Zhong Shan''s expression changed, sensing danger.


    "Reverse Time!" Luo Xingchen shouted.


    With a thunderous shout, blue light erupted in all directions, filling the entire Reincarnation Channel. The terrifying blue light was directed straight at Zhong Shan.


    The surging blue light enveloped Zhong Shan, once again immobilizing him in the time prison. Zhong Shan found himself unable to move, and to his horror, he realized that his cultivation was rapidly decreasing.


    His cultivation level was dropping:


    Tianxian Eightfold HeavenTianxian Sixfold HeavenTianxian Threefold HeavenTianji Twelvefold HeavenDiji RealmHuangji RealmIntegration StageNascent Soul StageGolden Core Stage


    The terrifying regression of his cultivation level��reverse time? This horrifying maniption of time was reducing Zhong Shan''s cultivation from Tianxian back to a mortal, and it continued downward towards the Golden Core Stage.


    Zhong Shan was horrified. Would this regression continue until he was a mere mortal, then an infant, and eventually a single cell, or even to non-existence? This time divine ability was too terrifying. If it couldn''t be obtained, it must be destroyed.


    Could Zhong Shan still have a chance?


    As Zhong Shan trembled in fear, he noticed that Luo Xingchen''s face had be deathly pale, indicating that this reverse time technique consumed an enormous amount of energy, even for an Ancient Immortal.


    The blue light suddenly dispersed, and Luo Xingchen, his face gray with exhaustion, quickly swallowed some pills.


    It was over!


    Despite the massive energy consumption, Luo Xingchen had seeded. Zhong Shan was now at the Golden Core Stage.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, now at the Golden Core Stage, Luo Xingchen allowed himself a bitter smile. Before the battle, he had never anticipated such a difficult fight.


    Zhong Shan had repeatedly shown cards that left Luo Xingchen feeling utterly defeated. It wasn''t until he used his final technique that he managed to turn the tables.


    The Reincarnation Channel around them slowly weakened. If Zhong Shan hadn''t initiated it, he might have been crushed by it.


    "You''ve lost!" Luo Xingchen dered weakly.


    Despite his exhaustion, Luo Xingchen remained an Ancient Immortal, while Zhong Shan, now at the Golden Core Stage, was no match for him.


    Zhong Shan, still shocked, showed no fear. He hadn''t lost yet.


    He extended his right hand, ced two fingers on his forehead, and then moved them to his chest.


    "Ascend!"


    With a shout, a tremendous amount of energy surged into Zhong Shan''s body, forming arge whirlwind around him.


    "Whoosh!"


    Golden Core StageNascent Soul StageIntegration StageHuangji RealmDiji RealmTianji RealmTianxian Threefold HeavenTianxian Fivefold HeavenTianxian Sevenfold HeavenTianxian Eightfold Heaven


    Zhong Shan''s cultivation surged back rapidly.


    Luo Xingchen was stunned, his mouth agape in disbelief. How was this possible? How could this be happening?


    Luo Xingchen could see clearly that there was no time attribute around Zhong Shan, meaning he wasn''t using time maniption. It was solely his own root bone that allowed his cultivation to skyrocket back.


    Was he even human? Was there such a monstrous root bone in existence? Luo Xingchen, dragging his exhausted body, waspletely shocked!

 Chapter 900: The Path of Beasts! Sealing!

    <h4>Chapter 900: The Path of Beasts! Sealing!</h4>


    Was he even human? How could there be such an abnormal root bone in the world? Luo Xingchen, dragging his weakened body, was utterly shocked.


    In Luo Xingchen''s eyes, Zhong Shan had simply shouted "Ascend," and his cultivation had skyrocketed from the Golden Core Stage straight up to the Eighth Heaven of Tianxian! Luo Xingchen was dumbfounded and felt an intense urge to curse.


    How could this be happening? He had expended an enormous amount of energy, injuring himself severely, and used the world''s ninth-ranked divine ability to drain Zhong Shan''s cultivation down to the Golden Core Stage. And now, in such a short time, Zhong Shan was back at his previous level?


    Zhong Shan moved his fingers slightly, opened his eyes, and exhaled deeply.


    Cultivation? For the shadow body, it was never an issue. As long as the main body advanced, the shadow body''s cultivation would follow. asionally, closed-door training was needed merely to adapt to the increased cultivation level, but having gone through this process once, it could now be bypassed directly.


    An abnormal root bone! Or rather, the shadow body didn''t need the concept of a root bone��it was an inherent ability. As long as the main body wasn''t restricted, the cultivation level would immediately rise.


    Reverse time was incredibly strong and abnormal! But unfortunately, Luo Xingchen had encountered Zhong Shan, or more precisely, Zhong Shan''s shadow body.


    The shadow body''s root bone truly stunned Luo Xingchen. Zhong Shan, whom he had just acknowledged as his greatest opponent, seemed to have reached an unimaginable height in an instant. Luo Xingchen couldn''t help but think, was an Ancient Immortal not as strong as a Tianxian?


    As Zhong Shan opened his eyes, he looked coldly at Luo Xingchen. Reverse time was too powerful, and Luo Xingchen had only initially mastered it. If he could control it at will, the consequences just now would have been unimaginable.


    Such a divine ability was too terrifying. Luo Xingchen could not be allowed to escape��he must be destroyed or subdued. There was no third option!


    "Luo Xingchen, I ask you again, will you join my Da Jing?" Zhong Shan asked with utmost seriousness.


    This was Zhong Shan''s final ultimatum, and the massive Reincarnation Channel was spinning furiously. He absolutely couldn''t let Luo Xingchen escape. Zhong Shan was also worried that if Luo Xingchen got away, his future would be in grave danger, and his loved ones might suffer as well.


    Luo Xingchen, extremely weak, looked up at Zhong Shan with unprecedented bitterness on his face.


    Inferior to Zhong Shan in every aspect��wealth,panions, techniques, and territory��except for his cultivation. But what use was cultivation alone? In the face of true power, what did cultivation matter?


    Defeated. Luo Xingchen knew he was utterly defeated in this battle. The so-called strongest in the Zhuanlun Domain, the strongest Ancient Immortal, the ninth-ranked divine ability��it was all a joke, all hollow. Only true power was real.


    Defeated! I am defeated?


    "Luo Xingchen, will you join my Da Jing?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    Luo Xingchen flicked his long hair back, his eyes reddening as he looked at Zhong Shan.


    A crazed look shed in Luo Xingchen''s eyes!


    "I, Luo Xingchen, have roared proudly throughout my life and have never been defeated. Never before, not now. I said it before��it''s either you die or I die. In a battle of life and death, there is no defeat, only death! I failed to revert you to your initial state earlier. This time, even if it costs my life, I will reverse you back to your primordial state. I want to see if, once you be mere primordial essence, you still have the ability to return!" Luo Xingchen roared.


    As he spoke, Luo Xingchen''s long hair scattered once more, blue light radiating from his body. This time, Luo Xingchen was prepared to sacrifice his life to defend hisst bit of dignity.


    A terrifying blue light, just like before, shot straight at Zhong Shan.


    "Stubborn fool!" Zhong Shan snorted coldly.


    Suddenly, green light erupted around Zhong Shan, and his pupils turned green. Behind him, an enormous, eerie green eye appeared.


    A giant green eye that seemed to be filled with heavenly might appeared. The green eye was brimming with a destructive aura, and at this moment, Zhong Shan stood within its pupil. The surrounding Reincarnation Passage channeled a vast amount of reincarnation power into the green eye, as if they were inherently one.


    Previously, Zhong Shan had merely controlled the Reincarnation Passage, but now he had be its master.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes glowed green as he extended his right hand, forming a massive hand seal that crashed down. With this seal, the green eye connected with the Reincarnation Passage, transforming a vast amount of reincarnation energy into green light that Zhong Shan unleashed.


    A colossal green beam shot towards Luo Xingchen.


    The green light shed violently with Luo Xingchen''s blue light.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The quantity of green light was overwhelming, like a torrent, whereas Luo Xingchen''s blue light was a mere stream. The sheer volume gave Zhong Shan an absolute advantage.


    Havingprehended the power of heaven and earth, Zhong Shan''s eye technique fully harnessed the power of the Reincarnation Passage. In contrast, Luo Xingchen''s time maniption relied solely on his own energy.


    The oue was clear.


    Under the tremendous impact, the blue light was driven back. The terrifying force of the reincarnation power left Luo Xingchen with no time to react.


    In shock and disbelief, Luo Xingchen experienced yet another of the emperor''s hidden moves.


    This was another unexpected trump card, and it was too terrifying. Was the emperor''s concealment really this formidable?


    How many more hidden moves did he have? Could a Tianxian emperor possess so many secret techniques?


    Faced with this wave of reincarnation power and already severely injured, Luo Xingchen had no means to resist. Despite exerting his full strength, he was still overpowered by Zhong Shan''s fierce assault.


    The impact hurled Luo Xingchen downwards, driving him into the depths of the Reincarnation Passage, into the terrifying, distant abyss.


    It was over. Unable to fight back, Luo Xingchen felt a deep sense of defeat.


    High in the sky, Zhong Shan watched the results of his hand seals. This was the first time he used the newlyprehended application of reincarnation power.


    As he observed Luo Xingchen''s descent, Zhong Shan''s other hand suddenly moved. His right hand formed a changing seal, and his left hand created another seal.


    "Open~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a loud shout, Luo Xingchen saw six passages. The Reincarnation Passage split into six?


    Five were indistinct, but one was clear, and he was being driven into it.


    Luo Xingchen was absorbed.


    "Path of Beasts, seal!"


    Zhong Shan''s two hand seals ovepped.


    Green light burst forth. Then, the green light dissipated as if nothing had happened.


    The enormous green eye behind Zhong Shan vanished, and everything returned to normal. However, within the Reincarnation Passage, Luo Xingchen had disappeared.


    Zhong Shan exhaled deeply and wiped the sweat from his forehead.


    "Ancient Immortals? Truly monstrous," Zhong Shan muttered to himself.


    Of course, Zhong Shan''s remark was merely a casualment. If Luo Xingchen knew Zhong Shan admired his strength, it was hard to say whether he would be happy or sad.


    Gazing at the passage below, Zhong Shan took another deep look. Luo Xingchen wasn''t dead; he was sealed.


    Luo Xingchen was trapped within the Path of Beasts, one of the six paths of the Reincarnation Passage. Here, he would be transformed and reincarnated through the cycle of beastly existence, indefinitely until the seal was broken.


    Meanwhile, in the outside world, the immense energy of the Reincarnation Passage subsided. The surrounding cultivators and spectators, who had witnessed the unprecedented sh, were left in awe and disbelief at Zhong Shan''s disy of power.


    "Da Jing''s emperor is invincible!"


    "Zhong Shan has subdued the strongest Ancient Immortal of the Zhuanlun Domain!"


    Such exmations echoed through the crowd as Zhong Shan reasserted his dominance.


    Back in the Da Jing Empire, the people celebrated their emperor''s victory, their unwavering faith in him growing stronger.


    The battle had ended, but the impact of this confrontation would reverberate throughout the realms. Zhong Shan''s might and strategic prowess had once again proven why he was a force to be reckoned with. The name of Zhong Shan would be etched deeper into the annals of history as a symbol of unparalleled strength and wisdom.


    In that moment, Zhong Shan indeed considered destroying Luo Xingchen, but ultimately decided against it. Pride! Who doesn''t have pride! Pride is the key to achievement.


    Pride can be tempered over time!


    Outside the Wheel Pce, the vast Reincarnation Passage continuously overwhelmed everyone''s hearts.


    The power of reincarnation, vast and majestic!


    The sudden expansion to ten thousand times its original size was a concept almost unimaginable. As people retreated, they wore expressions of awe. Every Da Yin citizen disyed deep reverence.


    "That''s our Saint King, the Saint King of Da Yin!" Every Da Yin cultivator spoke with immense pride.


    This was a form of veneration, and it seemed to infect others as well. Those who were merely observing now looked at the Reincarnation Passage and continuously thought of Zhong Shan''s immense power.


    He wasn''t just a barbarian from a minor world; he was an extraordinary Saint King with transcendent methods!


    People held their breaths, watching. The vast Reincarnation Passage enveloped the two peerless powerhouses. At one point, it seemed to shrink, making everyone think Zhong Shan was about to lose, but then it expanded again, regaining its powerful operation.


    The sky-reaching, earth-prating phenomenon deeply shook everyone''s hearts.


    Although they couldn''t see the specific details of the battle, this overwhelming power was more than enough for many to process.


    "Boom!"


    A massive explosion erupted, and the colossal Reincarnation Passage suddenly dispersed, sending a fierce wind in all directions, blowing past all the strong cultivators.


    The powerful wind stirred up dust and debris, and when the dust settled, they saw the vast area where once there were countless mountains now turned into a giant crater.


    People eagerly looked towards the center of the battlefield.


    Under the moonlight, in the middle of the battlefield, a lone figure stood, looking extremely proud.


    Only one person remained. Who was that figure?


    It was Zhong Shan, the Saint King of Da Yin.


    Dressed in a ck dragon robe, he stood proudly against the world!


    At this moment, Zhong Shan''s image seemed infinitely grand.


    "The Saint King, it really is the Saint King!"


    "Long live the Saint King! May he enjoy eternal blessings and longevity!"


    "Long live the Saint King, long live, long live!"


    The people of Da Yin were extremely excited, and even started chanting the praises they used to chant in their minor world.


    Those who were not part of Da Yin were now deeply shocked.


    Da Yin Saint King vs. an Ancient Immortal!


    Zhong Shan vs. Luo Xingchen!


    Victory! Zhong Shan won? That was an Ancient Immortal, the number one expert in the Wheel Domain, and now he waspletely annihted? Not even a trace remained?


    The terrifying Da Yin Saint King, the mighty Zhong Shan!


    At this moment, no words could express the feelings of the crowd. The first reaction was one of awe. Zhong Shan was powerful!


    Those from the eight great dynasties who were at war with Da Yin were now in a state of utter shock, their minds reeling.


    <strong>PS: This is the second update. Guan Qi is about to write the third update. Have new monthly tickets been born? Let''s push the ranking of Undying Life up a bit!</strong>

 Chapter 901: The Big Winner

    <h4>Chapter 901: The Big Winner</h4>


    The envoys from the eight great celestial dynasties, who were at war with Great Zheng, were now all in shock, their minds buzzing. Is this the weakest holy court from the Small Thousand World?


    Is this a holy court of mere celestial beings?


    Is Great Zheng''s Sacred King, Zhong Shan, as weak and easily bullied as they had imagined?


    At this moment, the envoys from the eight celestial dynasties all thought about their strategies against Great Zheng.


    Wrong, it was all wrong! Because they underestimated Great Zheng, their celestial dynasties were now facing imminent doom!


    The envoys from the eight celestial dynasties fled in panic in all directions. There was no time to waste; they had to report the news to their respective sacred kings as quickly as possible.


    The people from the eight celestial dynasties left, but more remained behind. Although the oue was decided, they still seemed reluctant to leave.


    At the location of the Wuxiang Holy Court.


    "Third Prince, did Zhong Shan really win? Did Luo Xingchen lose?" an official asked incredulously.


    "This can''t be right. How could Luo Xingchen lose to Zhong Shan? Luo Xingchen is an ancient immortal, and Zhong Shan is merely a celestial!" another official eximed in disbelief.


    "It doesn''t matter what you say. Victory is victory, and defeat is defeat. There are no excuses!" the Third Prince said sternly.


    "Yes!"


    "Third Prince, what should we do? Although Great Zheng is in the north of the Zhuanlun territory, we have neglected them. Great Zheng''s strength is not just a recement for the Temporal Dojo; it seems even stronger. Maybe even...!"


    The official didn''t continue, but his meaning was clear. The Great Zheng Holy Court was different from the Temporal Dojo. The Temporal Dojo was just a dojo, with little conflict of interest with the Wuxiang Holy Court. But two holy courts would inevitably sh in the future, and the Great Zheng Holy Court seemed to have significant ambitions.


    "There''s no need to say more. Although we didn''t take them seriously at first, it''s not toote to do so now. Besides, three years ago, we already sent someone to the Wuxiang territory to deliver a message. The Sacred King should have made arrangements by now!" the Third Prince said.


    "Yes!" The officials of the Wuxiang Holy Court immediately nodded.


    "What are you doing?!" a sharp cry suddenly came from a distance.


    Everyone turned to look and saw the Great Zheng army surrounding the hundred or so people who hade with the Temporal Dojo.


    "What are you doing? Do you intend to kill us all?" one person shouted in rm.


    "He''s dead? He''s dead...!" Chen Xiaoqian was in a daze, her expression confused.


    Chen Xiaoqian had always hoped for Luo Xingchen''s death, so she could be with Chen Zihao without any more concealment. But when the man who had always protected her died, she realized it didn''t feel as good as she thought.


    "Mydy, after this retreat, I can help you reim that jade bead from the Great Chen Celestial Dynasty''s Sacred King!"


    "Mydy, with me here, no one can hurt you!"


    "Mydy, from now on, you will be the mistress of the Temporal Dojo, and your brother will be the vice leader!"


    "Mydy, marrying you is the greatest achievement of my life!"


    ...


    Scenes from the past shed through Chen Xiaoqian''s mind. These words, which she had never cared about, suddenly surfaced in her memory.


    One after another, these scenes filled her mind.


    Chen Xiaoqian suddenly realized with anguish that, while deeply loving Chen Zihao, she had unknowingly fallen deeply in love with Luo Xingchen. Her eyes were filled with confusion, but even more so with heartache. She should be happy, but why did her heart hurt so much?


    "You all may leave immediately, but Chen Xiaoqian must stay. Anyone who dares to resist will be executed without mercy!" Yi Yan said sternly.


    Although Yi Yan rarely led troops, hismand carried immense authority. His threat of execution was filled with a chilling coldness.


    The master is dead, should they still protect the master''s wife?


    Many from the Temporal Dojo chose to leave immediately, disappearing in an instant. Only a few stayed behind, knowing that the master''s wife had ties to the vice leader. With the master dead, they thought the Temporal Dojo might still protect Chen Xiaoqian due to the vice leader. However, as more people left, they became increasingly outnumbered and vulnerable.


    Fight? Or just leave?


    In no time, those from the Temporal Dojo were gone.


    Chen Xiaoqian, still in her daze, was easily captured.


    This was just a minor incident, a victor iming the spoils of war. It wasmon in this world.


    People''s eyes remained fixed on Zhong Shan in the distance.


    Zhong Shan withdrew the Samsara Passage and looked around at the countless powerful figures, many of whom were elites of the Zhuanlun territory.


    "I have decided that in two years, we will hold a grand examination, open to all talents of the world. Those interested in joining Great Zheng shoulde to the Changjing Examination Hall in two years!" Zhong Shan announced loudly.


    His voice wasn''t loud, but it carried supreme authority, instantly spreading in all directions.


    In the distance, the Third Prince''s expression changed.


    "Third Prince, what does Zhong Shan mean by this? He''s already aiming to rule the Zhuanlun territory right after destroying the Temporal Dojo?" an official asked in surprise.


    "Let''s go, return to Tianci Mansion immediately. The situation is escting, and we must make preparations. Today''s events must be reported to the Sacred King at once!" the Third Prince said promptly.


    "Yes!"


    This group quickly flew away.


    In contrast to their attitude, the countless strong figures gathered here were already eager.


    Two yearster, the Great Zheng examinations? Open to all talents? Does that mean people outside Great Zheng are also eligible to participate?


    Many people, having witnessed Zhong Shan''s strength, were already itching to try. Simrly, this news would surely spread like wildfire in all directions.


    No one disturbed Zhong Shan, as he had given everyone the best answer: in two years, the examination would be held in Changjing.


    The Great Zheng army captured Chen Xiaoqian, and Zhong Shan flew towards them.


    Zhong Shannded.


    "Sacred King''s heavenly might!" everyone immediately bowed respectfully.


    "Mm, y Bodhisattva, the Zhuanlun Hall is now under yourmand," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes!" y Bodhisattva nodded, but his brow was slightly furrowed.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Sacred King, the earlier battle was too intense, and it seems to have disturbed the feng shui of the Zhuanlun Hall. Some ces'' geomantic energy appears to have shifted. What I said before about it taking a few years, I can no longer guarantee with absolute certainty," y Bodhisattva said respectfully.


    Looking towards the Zhuanlun Hall, the ck energy remained, and Zhong Shan could not detect anything unusual. However, since y Bodhisattva mentioned it, there must be an issue.


    "Do your best!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!" y Bodhisattva responded immediately.


    "Yan Chongzhi!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "At your service!" Yan Chongzhi replied promptly.


    "Mobilize three hundred thousand troops to guard the outside of Zhuanlun Hall and protect y Bodhisattva as he resolves the issues there," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "At once!" Yan Chongzhi responded without hesitation.


    Outside the Temporal Dojo, the surrounding mountains had been reduced to rubble.


    Xianxian, Wang Ku, and the Drunken Old Man stood atop a high tform.


    Below them were some of the Temporal Dojo''s strongest members, including the vice leader Chen Zihao, all of whom had their powers sealed. They could hardly believe that their once formidable Temporal Dojo was now no more.


    Leveled to the ground? Even the umted merit was mysteriously taken by a tower. What kind of situation was this?


    About a hundred of them were surrounded, with over two thousand strong guards watching over them. There were also numerous Temporal Dojo treasures, texts, and elixirs. The ce had been thoroughly ransacked.


    "All Great Zheng generals, you have worked hard. Return to your posts at the front lines; Zhong Shan will reward your contributions in the future," Xianxian announced loudly.


    "Yes!" the powerful Great Zheng generals responded respectfully.


    "As for the rest, follow me to escort these people back to Changjing, along with all the treasures and texts. Not a single one should be left behind; they must all be safely delivered to the Great Zheng treasury!" Xianxian instructed again.


    "Yes!" everyone responded immediately.


    "Also, those who have died but can be revived with soul-restoring pills are heroes. If only their souls remain, don''t worry; you are still martyrs. Great Zheng will not mistreat you. You can continue as ghost cultivators or, if possible, be given a chance to reincarnate in the future!" Xianxian said.


    "Yes!" responded some ghosts and severely injured individuals.


    "Return to the court!" Xianxian said excitedly.


    This first expedition was aplete victory, and Xianxian was very pleased.


    Meanwhile, in Changjing, Nangong Sheng had set up the ''Heaven''s Cmity Chessboard,'' thwarting the surprise attack by the eight celestial dynasties.


    Many strong individuals attempted to rush into Changjing or flee, but under the Heaven''s Cmity Chessboard, all efforts were in vain. There was no escape. Anyone who tried was struck down by the ster golden lightning.


    The citizens of Changjing were also instructed to stay put, and the attackers were simrly immobilized.


    Trapped on a high mountain, these attackers were watched by the citizens of Changjing and the surrounding areas.


    "To stand at the summit and see all the other mountains appear small," but these attackers were tragically unable to descend the mountain.


    The reputation of the greatest array master in the Small Thousand World was well-earned. The grand array painstakingly created by the first sage of the fox n was no mere decoration.


    As a result, the eight celestial beings struggled; some were killed, and others were captured.


    The n for a surprise attack seemed sound��Xianxian''s surprise attack on the Temporal Dojo had seeded. But if Zhong Shan had anticipated the surprise attack, could it still be called a surprise?


    The eight celestial dynasties underestimated Great Zheng and Zhong Shan, but Zhong Shan did not underestimate the Temporal Dojo, leading to different oues.


    Great Zheng emerged as the biggest winner in this conflict!

 Chapter 902: Wang Jingwen

    <h4>Chapter 902: Wang Jingwen</h4>


    In the southern region of the Zhuanlun territory, within the Tianci Mansion of the Wuxiang Holy Court, the Third Prince and his entourage hurried back from Zhuanlun Hall. As soon as they reached the mansion''s entrance, a servant rushed up to them.


    "Your Highness, Third Prince!" the servant said respectfully.


    "What is it?" the Third Prince asked, puzzled.


    "An envoy sent by the Sacred King arrived ten days ago and is currently in the main courtyard of Tianci Mansion," the servant replied.


    "An envoy?" The Third Prince was slightly surprised, then waved the servant away.


    Soon, the Third Prince, apanied by a few officials, entered Tianci Mansion.


    In the main courtyard, by a pavilion overlooking a pond filled with ornamental fish, a schrly man in a white robe was seated, an ancient zither ced before him. Two attendants stood nearby, tending to an incense burner as the man gently yed the zither. The music was tranquil, causing the fish in the pond to seem entranced, gathering near the pavilion and remaining still.


    The Third Prince and his officials exchanged nces. The Third Prince frowned but did not interrupt the zither yer, who continued to y as if unaware of their presence.


    Wisps of mist floated above theke, gathering and dispersing in harmony with the zither''s melody, forming images of mountains and rivers in the air.


    After the time it takes to burn an incense stick, the final note echoed, and the mist dissipated instantly. The fish in the pond became lively again, darting about energetically.


    The man in the white robe exhaled deeply and rose gently. One of the attendants immediately handed him a white towel, which he used to wipe his hands before returning it.


    The man then turned to face the Third Prince and his group.


    "I am Wang Jingwen. Greetings, Your Highness, Third Prince!" he said with a slight bow, exuding the air of a wise man, his demeanor proud and untouched by worldly concerns.


    "Wang Jingwen? The newly appointed top schr of the Wuxiang Holy Court?" the Third Prince asked, his brow furrowing slightly.


    The Third Prince was naturally displeased with Wang Jingwen''s earlier disy, but he was not a reckless man. While he did not practice the way of the emperor, he was highly skilled in the art of power, knowing how to handle people instinctively.


    "Indeed, it is I," Wang Jingwen responded calmly.


    "What is your purpose here?" the Third Prince inquired.


    "Years ago, news from the Third Prince reached the Wuxiang territory, and the Sacred King took it very seriously. Regarding the recent battle in the northern Zhuanlun territory between the Temporal Dojo and the Great Zheng Holy Court, I presume it was the Great Zheng Sacred King, Zhong Shan, who emerged victorious," Wang Jingwen said with a faint smile.


    The Great Zheng Sacred King, Zhong Shan, emerged victorious!


    Upon hearing this, the Third Prince''s pupils contracted, and the officials behind him showed expressions of astonishment. How did he know? They had rushed back from Zhuanlun Hall as soon as the battle ended! They were the first to know in the southern Zhuanlun territory.


    But how did Wang Jingwen know?


    Wang Jingwen''s strength wascking; he was still a mortal, which had been a renowned story in the Wuxiang Holy Court. To achieve the top schr position as a mere mortal was big news. A mortal''s speed could not match their own.


    "Your information is urate," the Third Prince said cautiously. "But how did youe to know about the oue of the battle so quickly?"


    Wang Jingwen smiled enigmatically. "My knowledge is not limited to what is within my reach. I have my ways of obtaining information."


    The Third Prince nodded slowly, recognizing the wisdom and insight behind Wang Jingwen''s words. "What is your purpose here, Wang Jingwen? And what message does the Sacred King have for me?"


    Wang Jingwen''s expression grew serious. "The Sacred King has foreseen the growing threat from the Great Zheng Holy Court. He has sent me to assist you in countering Zhong Shan''s influence and to ensure our territory remains secure. We must prepare for what is toe, for the ambitions of Great Zheng are vast."


    The Third Prince and his officials listened intently, understanding the gravity of the situation. The battle with the Temporal Dojo was just the beginning; greater challengesy ahead.


    "We will follow the Sacred King''s directives," the Third Prince said resolutely. "Wang Jingwen, your presence here is timely. Let us discuss our next steps."


    As they moved to the pavilion, the officials felt a renewed sense of urgency. The battle for control over the Zhuanlun territory was far from over, and they needed to be prepared for the ambitions of Zhong Shan and the Great Zheng Holy Court.


    "But he knew? How could he guess such an impossible oue?"


    "Indeed, Zhong Shan was victorious! How did you guess that?" the Third Prince asked gravely.


    "Guess? There was no need to guess. By examining the records of the Great Zheng Holy Court and their strategic movements over the past few years, it was evident," Wang Jingwen replied, shaking his head.


    The officials were speechless. No need to guess? Just by looking at the records?


    "What instructions does the Sacred King have for you?" the Third Prince asked, taking a deep breath.


    "A new Great Zheng Holy Court has emerged in the Zhuanlun territory. From various signs, the Sacred King has discerned that the Great Zheng Holy Court is extraordinary and might even pose a threat to Tianci Mansion. He has sent me to assist you, Your Highness. Here is the Sacred King''s decree; please review it," Wang Jingwen said solemnly, handing over a scroll.


    The Third Prince took it and read it carefully. As he read, his brow furrowed deeper, and he nced sharply at Wang Jingwen.


    "The Sacred King sent you to assist me?" the Third Prince asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, I am to give my full support to Your Highness to strengthen the influence of the Wuxiang Holy Court in the Zhuanlun territory," Wang Jingwen replied with a slight bow.


    After scrutinizing Wang Jingwen for a moment, the Third Prince''s expression softened, and heughed heartily. "Excellent! With you by my side, Tianci Mansion''s position in the Zhuanlun territory will be unassable."


    "I will do my utmost!" Wang Jingwen nodded.


    "Your talent was evident in the imperial examinations a hundred years ago. Given the current situation, what do you suggest we do?" the Third Prince asked.


    "These past few days, I have studied the geography and power dynamics of the Zhuanlun territory. In the north, the aggressive expansion of the Great Zheng Holy Court is inevitable. A conflict between them and Tianci Mansion is only a matter of time," Wang Jingwen said, his expression serious.


    "Indeed!"


    "However, a holy court from the Small Thousand World, regardless of its current strength, cannot match our foundation," Wang Jingwen said.


    "You underestimate the Great Zheng Holy Court''s foundation?" an official asked, unconvinced.


    Wang Jingwen nced at him and said calmly, "Foundation is not merely about strength. It includes many factors: culture, eptance, connections, popr support, and more. Pure strength alone is not a foundation. The Great Zheng Holy Court is newly established andcks depth. To grow, they must absorb talent from outside their court, particrly from the Zhuanlun territory, to bolster their foundation and integrate more deeply into the territory. This is not just about increasing strength but enhancing their foundation, making the people more inclined towards Great Zheng and rapidly solidifying their base."


    Wang Jingwen''s exnation left the officials enlightened. Several of them looked at him with newfound respect.


    "The gentleman is correct. After defeating Luo Xingchen, Zhong Shan announced an open imperial examination, inviting talents from the Zhuanlun territory to participate!" the Third Prince said, startled.


    The Great Zheng Sacred King? So the examination was not just about recruiting talent but had deeper implications. Zhong Shan was indeed a formidable figure!


    Wang Jingwen nodded. "I have studied Zhong Shan as well. His announcement, at the peak of his victory over Luo Xingchen, was strategically timed, demonstrating his brilliance. This moment was optimal for dering the examination. The rise of Great Zheng is inevitable."


    "So, what should we do?" the Third Prince asked.


    "Great Zheng is leveraging this momentum to develop. But rest assured, Your Highness, we have our advantages. Our foundation is far stronger than that of Great Zheng. Our first step should be to subdue the four nearby celestial dynasties," Wang Jingwen said.


    "These four celestial dynasties have always been a great threat to Tianci Mansion. They''ve harassed us for many years. Taking them down? That''s easier said than done!" the Third Prince frowned.


    "If I may be so bold, if the Third Prince entrusts the troops to mymand, I canpletely pacify the four celestial dynasties within five years!" Wang Jingwen said solemnly.


    "Five years? How is that possible?" another official asked incredulously.


    Wang Jingwen shook his head and looked at the Third Prince. "It''s up to you to decide, Your Highness."


    "Five years? That''s indeed hard to believe. How confident are you?" the Third Prince asked, frowning.


    "We have such favorable innate conditions in the Wuxiang Holy Court. Why would taking down the four celestial dynasties in five years be difficult? I''mpletely confident," Wang Jingwen said with assurance.


    The Third Prince''s eyelids twitched, and the other officials also had peculiar expressions.


    "And then?" the Third Prince did not answer immediately but continued to ask.


    "And then? Naturally, we will unify the southern Zhuanlun territory. By then, the Great Zheng Holy Court would likely have unified the northern Zhuanlun territory. We will face each other north and south, and then we can fully confront the Great Zheng Holy Court!" Wang Jingwen said with great certainty.


    Unify the southern Zhuanlun territory? Is it really that easy?


    Everyone looked at Wang Jingwen with odd expressions, and the Third Prince was also skeptical. He looked at Wang Jingwen seriously and asked, "How can you guarantee that?"


    Wang Jingwen smiled slightly and replied, "Guarantee? The Wuxiang Holy Court is the best guarantee. Our court has the strongest foundation here. When the great battle begins, talent will quickly gather around us. With a holy court against a celestial dynasty, do we need more guarantees?"


    Wang Jingwen''s words left the officials feeling ashamed. What they had painstakingly preserved now seemedughable in Wang Jingwen''s eyes.


    After a deep look at Wang Jingwen, the Third Prince suddenlyughed heartily. "Hahaha, good! I believe you. From today, the military forces of the four surrounding cities of Tianci Mansion will be under yourmand. However, I need to see your n before you proceed."


    "Yes, I will do my utmost to assist you, Your Highness!" Wang Jingwen nodded.


    Great Zheng Holy Court, Changjing


    Changjing was a colossal floating ind, resembling the Heavenly Pce in grandeur, with the imperial examination location set below it.


    In the Immortal Pce:


    "Sacred King, the eight celestial dynasties are on the brink of copse after multiple suppressions. If we continue to pursue our victory, we can pacify the eight celestial dynastiespletely," Yi Yan said earnestly.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded from his throne.


    "However, I have a thought. Should we cease our military campaigns for now and enter a period of rest and recuperation?" Yi Yan asked.


    "Oh?"


    The ministers in the hall were surprised. Shouldn''t they capitalize on their victory and swiftly pacify the eight celestial dynasties?


    "Although the eight celestial dynasties are on the verge of defeat, a starved camel is still bigger than a horse. If we keep pressing them, it will provoke a desperate counterattack, which could be counterproductive. Moreover, if we eliminate the eight celestial dynasties, we will face even more celestial dynasties. Our rapid expansion could unite them against us, which would be disadvantageous," Yi Yan exined.


    "True," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "I propose a temporary truce. The weakened state of the eight celestial dynasties will undoubtedly attract the envy of surrounding dynasties. We can leave the task of eliminating the eight celestial dynasties to these short-sighted dynasties. Once they exhaust each other, we can take advantage of our well-rested and strengthened forces to reap the benefits," Yi Yan suggested.


    "I second this proposal," Xiao Wang immediately said.


    "I second this proposal," Zhao Suoxiang also quickly agreed.


    "We second this proposal!" many ministers echoed.


    "Approved," Zhong Shan dered.

 Chapter 903: A Journey of the Mind

    <h4>Chapter 903: A Journey of the Mind</h4>


    In the underworld, within the Great Zheng Holy Court, Changjing, there stood a grand pce heavily guarded by numerous powerful warriors. This was an essential location for the Great Zheng Holy Court.


    Inside the pce, the grand doors were shut, and at the center of the hall sat an enormous green ice block, emitting a faint cold aura, making the block appear ethereal. Within the ice block, a man sat cross-legged.


    This man was Luo Xingchen, the former leader of the Temporal Dojo. His hair was disheveled, his face showing exhaustion, and his entire being seemed to be enduring immense suffering. He was trapped, silently enduring his agony, sitting cross-legged and ignoring the external world''s continuous attempts to sway him.


    Aside from this "ice block," there was another person in the hall: Liu Wushuang, themander of the Great Zheng''s Jinyiwei (Embroidered Uniform Guard). Liu Wushuang sat on a chair, watching Luo Xingchen while sipping tea and frowning.


    "It''s been a month already. The Sacred King asked me to persuade you, but can''t you cooperate a little? Like a piece of wood, you haven''t said a single word!" Liu Wushuang said, exasperated.


    A month ago, Zhong Shan suddenly instructed Liu Wushuang to persuade Luo Xingchen to join the Great Zheng. Receiving this task, Liu Wushuang was excited for a while. Such an important mission was not given to Yi Yan or Xiao Wang but to him, Liu Wushuang?


    For the past month, Liu Wushuang had tried everything. He praised, insulted, despised, and admired Luo Xingchen, but it was like talking to a piece of wood. Luo Xingchen hadn''t spoken a single word, not even twitching an eyelid.


    Liu Wushuang was utterly speechless. What kind of person is this?


    "You''re really a piece of wood. No wonder Chen Xiaoqian betrayed you!" Liu Wushuang finally gave in, resorting to harsh sarcasm.


    This statement had more effect than a month''s worth of words. Luo Xingchen, who hadn''t reacted to anything else, seemed deeply hurt by this remark.


    The heart that had seemed dead within Luo Xingchen suddenly throbbed with pain.


    His lips moved slightly, and veins popped out on the back of his clenched fists.


    This subtle change did not escape Liu Wushuang''s notice.


    "Huh? This piece of wood reacted?" Liu Wushuang thought in surprise.


    "Luo Xingchen, Chen Xiaoqian isn''t worth it. Why do you still cling to her?" Liu Wushuang walked closer, smiling.


    But Luo Xingchen still remained silent. With a heart that felt dead, what was there left to say?


    However, Liu Wushuang had found the breakthrough point.


    "Are you in pain because of Chen Xiaoqian''s betrayal? What''s the point of feeling this way?" Liu Wushuang continued.


    "Chen Xiaoqian was never truly your woman. She was Daopanions with Chen Zihao. Chen Zihao only offered her to you to plot against your Temporal Dojo!" Liu Wushuang said.


    Luo Xingchen remained silent.


    "Tsk, tsk, I just don''t get it. What are you sulking about? You were cuckolded by Chen Zihao? Is it really that big of a deal?"


    Luo Xingchen still did not speak.


    "If you ask me, you didn''t lose out; you gained!" Liu Wushuang pressed on.


    "Chen Xiaoqian was originally Chen Zihao''s woman. In mortal terms, she was someone else''s wife, and you had her for nearly a thousand years. What are you still upset about?"


    "You gained so much and still act like you lost something. Are you even a man?" Liu Wushuang kept berating.


    Luo Xingchen''s silence was a stark contrast to the emotional turmoil stirred by Liu Wushuang''s words. The relentless mocking finally seemed to break through the barrier of his stoicism.


    "Shut up!" Luo Xingchen suddenly shouted.


    Even the stoic Luo Xingchen couldn''t take it anymore. The dead heart within him was ignited by Liu Wushuang''s words. Although Liu Wushuang spoke the truth, it was unbearable for Luo Xingchen to hear.


    Inside the green ice, Luo Xingchen''s eyes bulged with anger, veins protruding from his forehead. If not for being trapped by Zhong Shan, he would have leaped out to fight Liu Wushuang.


    Liu Wushuang wiped the sweat off his forehead. "My goodness, it took a month, but you finally spoke."


    For the past month, Liu Wushuang had felt like he was talking to himself, with Luo Xingchen not uttering a single word. Now, finally, Luo Xingchen responded.


    Luo Xingchen red at Liu Wushuang.


    "Don''t look at me like that! I didn''t make this up; it''s all true. A real man doesn''t worry about not having a wife. If you join Great Zheng, you can have any woman you want," Liu Wushuang said.


    Luo Xingchen stared at Liu Wushuang for a while, then closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. "Where is she?"


    "Who? Chen Xiaoqian? You''re still thinking about her?" Liu Wushuang asked, frowning.


    "Where is she?" Luo Xingchen repeated.


    Liu Wushuang''s eyes lit up. "She''s in the Great Zheng''s prison!"


    "The prison?"


    "Yes, the prison. If you join Great Zheng, I can request the Sacred King to grant her to you," Liu Wushuang said.


    Luo Xingchen looked at Liu Wushuang, a bitter smile appearing on his face.


    "Let her go," Luo Xingchen said painfully.


    "Let her go? Why should we? What right do you have to make demands? You''re a prisoner yourself; why should we release her just because you say so?" Liu Wushuang said sternly.


    Liu Wushuang realized he had found Luo Xingchen''s weak spot: Chen Xiaoqian. It seemed the Sacred King''s task was nearlyplete.


    Luo Xingchen felt truly powerless, as if he had nothing left.


    "I must warn you, the conditions in our prison are harsh. I''m not sure how long Chen Xiaoqian''s delicate body can endure," Liu Wushuang continued with a hint of malice.


    "If you harm her in any way!" Luo Xingchen said coldly.


    "Why wouldn''t we?" Liu Wushuang taunted.


    Luo Xingchen red coldly at Liu Wushuang, feeling utterly helpless. Chen Xiaoqian? What would they do to her? The prison? Eternal torment? The abuse of numerous brutal prisoners?


    "Darling, don''t worry, I will provide you with the best life!"


    "Husband, with you, I am at peace!"


    Though he knew these were false sentiments, Luo Xingchen couldn''t help but recall past moments.


    "Luo Xingchen, why are you hesitating? If you join Great Zheng, both you and Chen Xiaoqian will be free. In Great Zheng, you will have everything you need: wealth,panionship,w, andnd. You won''tck anything. What are you still hesitating for? Join Great Zheng!" Liu Wushuang suddenly coaxed softly.


    Luo Xingchen gritted his teeth, his heart trembling. Join Great Zheng? Freedom? Joining Great Zheng meant losing true freedom, the freedom of the soul, the prideful freedom.


    Originally, Luo Xingchen would rather die than serve anyone, but now...


    Caught between his pride and his deepest love, Luo Xingchen''s teeth ground audibly as he endured the inner torment. Liu Wushuang, sensing the moment was ripe, added fuel to the fire: "If you join Great Zheng, I can ensure Chen Xiaoqian is yours!"


    Luo Xingchen, unwilling as he was, could not bear it any longer for the sake of the woman who did not love him. The age-old weakness of heroes for beautiful women had caught him.


    Eyes closed, Luo Xingchen''s body trembled. His pride or the salvation of a woman who didn''t love him? A tear of soft emotion escaped his eye as he thought of Chen Xiaoqian.


    Liu Wushuang watched excitedly as Luo Xingchen seemed to struggle within himself before finally making a decision. Just as he was about to speak, a voice echoed in the hall.


    "If you join Great Zheng, I can give you Chen Xiaoqian''s heart as well!" It was Zhong Shan''s voice.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan, Liu Wushuang immediately bowed in respect.


    Luo Xingchen, on the other hand, was taken aback by Zhong Shan''s words.


    A moment ago, Luo Xingchen had been ready to trade his pride for Chen Xiaoqian''s freedom. But Zhong Shan''s sudden offer had a profound impact on him.


    Chen Xiaoqian''s heart? For some reason, Luo Xingchen felt a surge of hope.


    Zhong Shan had appeared because he believed the time was right. He had been observing, and in that crucial moment, he saw Luo Xingchen''s pride finally give way. Understanding that Luo Xingchen was ready to sacrifice himself for Chen Xiaoqian, Zhong Shan interrupted to offer an even greater incentive.


    "What did you say?" Luo Xingchen asked, his eyes twitching.


    Seeing the confident Zhong Shan, Luo Xingchen felt a sense of failure, but it did not diminish the impact of Zhong Shan''s words. Chen Xiaoqian''s heart? Luo Xingchen had never dared to hope for such a thing, but it didn''t mean he didn''t yearn for it.


    "How many times in a lifetime can one truly love? Don''t you want Chen Xiaoqian''s heart?" Zhong Shan asked with a smile.


    Luo Xingchen''s eyes twitched. He looked at Zhong Shan for ten long breaths, his emotions in turmoil.


    "To show Great Zheng''s sincerity, I will ensure Chen Xiaoqian''s heart is yours first. Then, you can join Great Zheng," Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    Luo Xingchen''s lips moved, but no words came out.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan knew he was about to secure what he wanted. With a gesture, the massive green ice block disappeared, and so did Luo Xingchen.


    Liu Wushuang was shocked to realize that the ice block he had been talking to for a month was merely an illusion.


    "Well done," Zhong Shan said to Liu Wushuang.


    Delighted by Zhong Shan''s praise, Liu Wushuang replied, "Thank you, Sacred King! It was my duty!"


    "Are Chen Xiaoqian and Chen Zihao still in the prison?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes! They are under heavy guard, with their seals reinforced every three days. There''s no chance of escape," Liu Wushuang answered promptly.


    "Has anything been done to them?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "No, Sacred King. Under your strict orders, no one has dared to harm them. They have merely been sealed and imprisoned. We haven''t even searched them for any belongings," Liu Wushuang stated seriously.


    "Good. Lead the way," Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Liu Wushuang responded, ready to guide Zhong Shan to the prison where Chen Xiaoqian and Chen Zihao were held.

 Chapter 904: Redemption

    <h4>Chapter 904: Redemption</h4>


    <strong>Underworld, Great Dazhen Holy Court, Changjing!</strong>


    Within the prison.


    Zhong Shan arrived with Liu Wushuang. As they reached the entrance, the jailers immediately fell to their knees at the sight of Zhong Shan.


    Liu Wushuang swiftly waved his hand, clearing out the numerous jailers.


    Following Liu Wushuang, Zhong Shan entered a grand and brightly lit hall. Two individuals stood at the entrance.


    Zhong Shan sat at the main seat of the hall. He extended a hand and pointed, causing a faint green light to appear in the void. Inside this light was Luo Xingchen!


    Luo Xingchen sat cross-legged, appearing indifferent. However, Zhong Shan noticed from the trembling of Luo Xingchen''s eyshes that he was deeply concerned.


    "Watch carefully. I, Zhong Shan, will keep my word," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    As he spoke, Zhong Shan pointed, and the blue light gradually faded as if it had never existed.


    Liu Wushuang widened his eyes in curiosity. He was extremely curious about how the Holy King intended to give Chen Xiaoqian''s heart to Luo Xingchen. How would he achieve such a miraculous feat?


    "Bring Chen Xiaoqian up!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    Liu Wushuang waved his hand, and a jailer immediately nodded and left quickly. Before long, Chen Xiaoqian was brought in.


    Chen Xiaoqian had no shackles on her, but her cultivation was sealed. Her lover had died, a fate worse than any physical restraint, leaving her utterly haggard.


    She was led to the hall in a daze.


    On the side, Luo Xingchen suddenly stood up, showing a look of pity. However, due to Zhong Shan''s presence, his words were unheard by the outside world, and his presence was invisible to others.


    Chen Xiaoqian nced at Zhong Shan with a numb expression.


    "Bring Chen Zihao up!" Zhong Shanmanded again.


    "Yes!"


    Soon, Chen Zihao was also brought into the hall. His brows were furrowed, and his face was heavy with concern.


    Upon entering the hall and seeing Zhong Shan, he was slightly taken aback, a sh of anger crossed his eyes, but he quickly concealed it.


    "Brother Hao!" Chen Xiaoqian''s numb eyes lit up upon seeing Chen Zihao.


    She immediately rushed towards him.


    "Brother Hao, you were captured too?" Chen Xiaoqian burst into tears.


    Chen Zihao, still maintaining hisposure, saw Chen Xiaoqian and his expression changed. He embraced her tightly.


    It was a scene of two star-crossed lovers suffering together.


    "It''s okay, I''m here," Chen Zihaoforted her.


    Chen Xiaoqian seemed to find a pir of support, her tears flowing uncontrobly. The initial fear and panic seemed to lessen significantly.


    Liu Wushuang watched the scene curiously. How would the Holy King separate them and give Chen Xiaoqian''s heart to Luo Xingchen? Was it even possible?


    Regardless of the possibility, Liu Wushuang was sure that witnessing this scene must have broken Luo Xingchen''s heart.


    Zhong Shan remained calm, gently tapping the armrest of his chair, waiting for the pair to express their heartfelt emotions.


    After a stick of incense, Chen Zihao had finallyforted Chen Xiaoqian and turned his gaze to Zhong Shan.


    "Great Dazhen Holy King, Zhong Shan?" Chen Zihao said heavily.


    "Vice Leader of the Time and Space Dojo, Chen Zihao?" Zhong Shan responded.


    "Time and Space Dojo? Is there even a Time and Space Dojo left? It has been destroyed, the leader killed. Why do you still capture us? What is your conspiracy?" Chen Zihao questioned.


    "You tell me," Zhong Shan replied calmly.


    "How would I know what schemes you have? Whatever it is, just get it over with. Let me know if it''s life or death!" Chen Zihao shouted.


    "A scheme? It''s not about my scheme; it''s about the fear of your scheme. After the battle between Great Dazhen and the Time and Space Dojo, with Luo Xingchen''s fall, a grudge was born between me and the Time and Space Dojo. Shouldn''t I be cautious about future revenge from the Time and Space Dojo? What if you, Chen Zihao, seek revenge against Great Dazhen? That''s why I had to capture you," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Chen Zihao felt a sudden urge to vomit blood. So, just to prevent him from avenging Luo Xingchen, Zhong Shan destroyed the Time and Space Dojo and captured them? Did Zhong Shan think he, Chen Zihao, had nothing better to do than avenge Luo Xingchen? He wished Luo Xingchen had died sooner.


    Chen Zihao was extremely frustrated. What kind of undeserved disaster was this? Had he shown too much loyalty to Luo Xingchen in the past, making everyone believe it?


    "I, Chen Zihao, swear to the heavens that I will never avenge Luo Xingchen, never! If I ever have the thought of avenging Luo Xingchen, may I be tormented by a million heart-devouring demons," Chen Zihao swore fervently.


    Having suffered enough in the two years of imprisonment, Chen Zihao was desperate.


    Shaking his head, Zhong Shan said calmly, "I don''t believe in oaths. You''re not a curse speaker. How could I take it seriously?"


    This made Chen Zihao anxious. If Zhong Shan didn''t believe him, what could he do? An idea struck him.


    He grabbed Chen Xiaoqian and said, "You recognize her, right, Holy King Zhong?"


    In his desperation, Chen Zihao immediately addressed Zhong Shan with respect.


    "Chen Xiaoqian, Luo Xingchen''s daopanion, your own sister!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "We''re not siblings at all. She''s my childhood sweetheart, my daopanion since we were young. She has always been my woman," Chen Zihao quickly exined.


    "Oh?"


    "We have always been deeply in love, butter we met Luo Xingchen, that despicable man. He forcibly separated us and took Xiaoqian for himself. I only joined the Time and Space Dojo for Xiaoqian''s sake. Every time I saw Luo Xingchen forcing Xiaoqian to do things she hated, my heart ached. I never respected Luo Xingchen; I only endured for Xiaoqian. Now that Luo Xingchen is dead, I am overjoyed. How could I possibly avenge him? Holy King Zhong, I should thank you. It was you who killed Luo Xingchen and finally freed Xiaoqian," Chen Zihao said immediately.


    Beside him, Chen Xiaoqian frowned, wanting to refute, but seeing Chen Zihao''s continuous hints, she bit her lip and said nothing, tears streaming from her eyes.


    The truth was not as Chen Zihao said. Luo Xingchen had not separated them; it was Chen Zihao who had manipted Chen Xiaoqian into seducing Luo Xingchen to gain control of the Time and Space Dojo.


    "Is that so?" Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "Yes, I can find people to prove it. Some elders of the Wolf n know that Xiaoqian and I have been together since childhood. Every word I say is true!" Chen Zihao said anxiously.


    "I''m not asking you. I''m asking Chen Xiaoqian. Is that true?" Zhong Shan looked at Chen Xiaoqian.


    Chen Xiaoqian looked at Zhong Shan, while Chen Zihao kept signaling her. Luo Xingchen, a despicable man? Chen Xiaoqian bit her lip, feeling a pang in her heart. Was that blockhead really despicable?


    "You fool, asking you to fetch a South Sea pearl, and you brought a mountain pearl!"


    "I''ll fetch it again, wait for me!"


    For some reason, memories of that "dead man" kept resurfacing. He was dead, so why smear him? Chen Xiaoqian wanted to shake her head.


    But Chen Zihao''s desperate gaze made her realize that shaking her head would be futile. She could only nod against her conscience. However, this nod felt like a sharp knife stabbing her heart, echoing in her mind: "Chen Xiaoqian, you bad woman."


    At this moment, Chen Zihao eagerly looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Holy King Zhong, we couldn''t wait to skin Luo Xingchen alive, strip his bones, and drink his blood. How could we possibly avenge him? We should be thanking you," Chen Zihao said immediately.


    "But I''ve kept you imprisoned for two years," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "We don''t mind, not at all!" Chen Zihao responded quickly.


    Zhong Shan appeared to ponder for a moment, while Chen Zihao waited quietly.


    After a while, Zhong Shan''s eyes seemed to light up as he looked at the two of them. "You may not mind, but Great Dazhen sacrificed a lot to capture you. Moreover, the jailers have been guarding you every day for the past two years, which also cost us a lot. I can release you, but you must provide sufficientpensation for your release. Do you have anything of value?"


    "Compensation?" Chen Zihao''s face lit up with joy.


    Compensation? Could they use treasures to buy their freedom?


    "Yes, do you have anything valuable enough to secure your release?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I do, but Holy King Zhong, what if we provide the items and you still...?" Chen Zihao frowned.


    "A gentleman''s word is his bond. I, Zhong Shan, will honor my words. Besides, I don''tck your paltry treasures. Your items are merelypensation for the families of those who perished at the Time and Space Dojo. If I wanted to kill you, would I need to use such a method?" Zhong Shan said disdainfully.


    "Of course, the Great Dazhen Holy Court has vast resources and wouldn''t deceive us," Chen Zihao said.


    "Bring forth enough items, and I will immediately unseal your cultivation and let you leave Changjing. I don''t have much time to waste on you," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "Yes!" Chen Zihao responded quickly.


    Chen Zihao believed Zhong Shan, but even if he didn''t, what choice did he have? Zhong Shan could kill him and search his body for treasures without all this hassle.


    Suddenly, Chen Zihao realized his storage bracelet was gone.


    Was it destroyed during the battle? He looked at Chen Xiaoqian and frowned, "Where''s your storage bracelet?"


    "I don''t know. I''ve been in a daze these past days and don''t know where it went," Chen Xiaoqian said nkly.


    Chen Zihao''s expression kept changing, growing more frustrated. Compensation? How could they providepensation without their treasures?


    After thinking for a moment and ncing at Zhong Shan, Chen Zihao gritted his teeth, and with a thought, a green long sword appeared in his palm.


    However, despite having the divine sword, he couldn''t wield it due to his sealed cultivation.


    "This is my life-bound treasure, a celestial weapon. I offer it in exchange for my freedom," Chen Zihao said.


    Liu Wushuang immediately took it and handed it to Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan grasped the sword, tapped it, shook his head, and said, "Not enough."


    "Not enough?" Chen Zihao grew anxious.


    Indeed, was his life worth only a celestial weapon? But he had no other treasures left. This was his only one.


    "Xiaoqian, what about you?" Chen Zihao asked hurriedly.


    "I... I have nothing!" Chen Xiaoqian shook her head quickly.


    "That''s not true. You have the Sea-Stabilizing Pearl," Chen Zihao said immediately.


    "But that was a gift from Xingchen!" Chen Xiaoqian showed a look of reluctance.


    "Luo Xingchen? He''s dead. Why keep the Sea-Stabilizing Pearl? Give it to me, and I''ll find you ten more once we''re out!" Chen Zihao urged.


    Chen Xiaoqian bit her lip, feeling a heavy weight in her heart. This was thest memento Luo Xingchen left her.


    "Hurry! Quickly!" Chen Zihao shouted, noticing the impatience on Zhong Shan''s face.


    Under Chen Zihao''s urging, Chen Xiaoqian reluctantly took out the Sea-Stabilizing Pearl.


    Chen Zihao grabbed it immediately and handed it to Liu Wushuang, who then passed it to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan held the pearl in one hand and the sword in the other, examining them before saying, "Not bad. This pearl is of higher quality than the sword. These two treasures are sufficient."


    "Sufficient!" Chen Zihao''s face showed a hint of joy.


    "But only sufficient to redeem one person," Zhong Shan said, returning the sword and pearl.


    Chen Zihao took back the sword, and Chen Xiaoqian held the pearl. The two of them stood there in shock.


    Only enough for one person?

 Chapter 905: Human Nature

    <h4>Chapter 905: Human Nature</h4>


    Only enough to redeem one person?


    Chen Zihao and Chen Xiaoqian both frowned.


    Chen Xiaoqian looked at Chen Zihao with a hopeful gleam in her eyes, while Chen Zihao''s brow furrowed deeply.


    "Xiaoqian, why don''t you go out first? Once you''re out, immediately find something to redeem me! Quickly!" Chen Zihao suddenly suggested.


    "But, Brother Hao, where can I find something to redeem you? Maybe you should go out instead!" Chen Xiaoqian responded, bewildered.


    From these two sentences, Zhong Shan could see that Chen Zihao was no ordinary person. No wonder he could plot against the Time and Space Dojo. Using a strategy of retreat to advance, he subtly shifted the opportunity to himself. That phrase "once you''re out, immediately find something to redeem me! Quickly!" was spoken with urgency, directly targeting Chen Xiaoqian''s weak spot.


    Quickly? The Time and Space Dojo was no more; where could she find treasures of celestial weapon level to redeem him? And not just one, but two? Chen Xiaoqian hadn''t even reached the level of a celestial. How could she find such items quickly?


    Chen Xiaoqian considered herself and Chen Zihao as one entity. To get both out, one had to be redeemed first to then rescue the other. She definitely couldn''t manage it, so only Chen Zihao could go out.


    "Alright, I''ll go out first. Once I find two celestial artifacts, I''lle back to redeem you immediately!" Chen Zihao said smoothly.


    At this moment, Chen Zihao might have been in a hurry to leave, showing no hesitation, which made Chen Xiaoqian suddenly realize something.


    Although Chen Xiaoqian wasn''t highly intelligent, she wasn''t a fool.


    Looking at Chen Zihao, Chen Xiaoqian suddenly felt a slight loss of security.


    "Don''t worry. With me, I''lle to save you. I''ll find the items as quickly as possible to redeem you!" Chen Zihaoforted her softly and reached for the Sea-Stabilizing Pearl in Chen Xiaoqian''s hand.


    Chen Xiaoqian clutched the pearl tightly, reluctant to let go. This was thest memento Luo Xingchen had given her.


    "Really?"


    "Of course. I know some friends! I can borrow from them!" Chen Zihao said.


    "But which celestial would be willing to lend their artifact?" Chen Xiaoqian asked worriedly.


    "Don''t worry. I have my ways! They''re my friends. I saved their lives; they''ll surely lend to me," Chen Zihao assured her.


    Gradually, Chen Zihao pried the Sea-Stabilizing Pearl from Chen Xiaoqian''s grip, holding it with her.


    "You really can borrow celestial artifacts from friends?" Zhong Shan suddenly asked with a smile.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s question, Chen Xiaoqian also looked at Chen Zihao, waiting for him to say ''yes.''


    Chen Zihao frowned slightly and said, "Yes!"


    Chen Xiaoqian''s face rxed.


    "Very well. Originally, I was satisfied with the Sea-Stabilizing Pearl and the sword. The life or death of the other one didn''t concern me much. However, if I can get two more celestial artifacts, why wouldn''t I want them? You stay, and Chen Xiaoqian goes to fetch them!" Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    "Her?" Chen Zihao was at a loss for words.


    "Yes. Why not record a video for her to take to your friends?" Zhong Shan suggested.


    "That works too!" Chen Xiaoqian nodded.


    At this moment, Chen Zihao''s expression turned uncertain.


    "What''s wrong?" Chen Xiaoqian frowned.


    Looking at Chen Xiaoqian, Chen Zihao sighed slightly and shook his head. "I''m sorry, the friends I mentioned don''t exist. I just wanted to get out!"


    Chen Xiaoqian''s eyes showed an expression of disbelief.


    "But don''t worry, I will keep my word. I will definitely obtain the celestial artifacts. With my strength, I can even rob if necessary. Believe me, really. I just want us to get out together because only if I get out first can I save you!" Chen Zihao quickly exined.


    Chen Xiaoqian''s heart was filled with mixed emotions. Brother Hao had just lied to her? A sudden fear sprouted in her heart. Why did Brother Hao lie to me?


    "Only if I get out first can I save you. Let me go first, okay?" Chen Zihao pleaded.


    Seeing this expression on Chen Zihao for the first time, Chen Xiaoqian''s heart softened, but the sadness in her heart wouldn''t go away. Was this the Brother Hao she had always admired? The Brother Hao with a heroic spirit? She had been willing to sacrifice herself to Luo Xingchen for him, but now?


    Was what he said true? It must be true, it had to be true.


    "Okay?" Chen Zihao implored.


    "Alright," Chen Xiaoqian nodded with difficulty.


    She still held onto a glimmer of hope for Chen Zihao.


    Receiving Chen Xiaoqian''s affirmation, Chen Zihao immediately showed a gentle smile and nodded.


    Zhong Shan looked at the two of them and sneered coldly.


    "Liu Wushuang, tell me, can I trust someone who is so good at lying?" Zhong Shan asked disdainfully.


    "No!" Liu Wushuang responded promptly.


    "Exactly, I can''t. I''ve decided. Chen Xiaoqian will go. She will find enough treasures to redeem Chen Zihao and bring them back. I will release Chen Zihao immediately upon receiving them!" Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "What?" Chen Zihao''s face changed dramatically.


    Chen Xiaoqian was slightly stunned.


    "Holy King Zhong, you didn''t specify who earlier," Chen Zihao said urgently.


    "I said only one person could be redeemed, but I never said you could choose," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Chen Zihao was speechless.


    Chen Xiaoqian, on the other hand, had a peculiar expression. Me? Let me go?


    "Me?" Chen Xiaoqian asked in disbelief.


    "Yes, you," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    Chen Xiaoqian felt no joy; she simply looked deeply at the Sea-Stabilizing Pearl in her hand again.


    "Brother Hao, don''t worry. I will definitely get you out. I will find the celestial artifacts," Chen Xiaoqian quicklyforted Chen Zihao.


    Chen Zihao looked at Chen Xiaoqian helplessly and nodded. His face showed indescribable frustration.


    Looking at the Sea-Stabilizing Pearl, Chen Xiaoqian said, "Holy King Zhong, may I ask you for one thing?"


    "Speak."


    "If I find three celestial artifacts, could you return this Sea-Stabilizing Pearl to me?" Chen Xiaoqian asked.


    Zhong Shan smiled with satisfaction and nodded, "Yes."


    "Alright," Chen Xiaoqian nodded and reluctantly wiped the Sea-Stabilizing Pearl.


    "Holy King Zhong!" Chen Zihao suddenly regained his energy and called out.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "I want to know if what you just said is true," Chen Zihao asked.


    "Which words?"


    "You just said that if we hand over these two treasures, you would release one person and immediately unseal their cultivation, allowing them to leave without hindrance?" Chen Zihao asked seriously.


    "That''s right, a promise is a promise," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    "Brother Hao, you...?" Chen Xiaoqian looked at him, puzzled.


    "Xiaoqian, I have something to tell you. Come closer," Chen Zihao said, taking a deep breath.


    "What is it?" Chen Xiaoqian asked as she walked over, confused.


    Suddenly, a white light shed.


    "Shing!"


    Chen Zihao''s sword suddenly pierced through Chen Xiaoqian''s heart.


    "Ah?" Liu Wushuang''s face changed dramatically.


    In another area, within the invisible Path of Beasts, Luo Xingchen''s eyes widened and he roared furiously, but no sound could be heard outside.


    Chen Xiaoqian looked at the sword in her chest in disbelief.


    "Brother... Brother Hao!" Chen Xiaoqian''s eyes widened in shock.


    "Only one can leave. With your cultivation and strength, it would take you a million years to obtain a celestial artifact. I can''t wait here for a million years," Chen Zihao shook his head.


    "I... I..." Tears streamed down Chen Xiaoqian''s face.


    This sword not only pierced her heart but also shattered her soul. The man she loved deeply had killed her.


    Why did it turn out this way?


    "I''m Xiaoqian!" she said with great difficulty, her final words.


    "Xiaoqian? Hmph, just a useless woman. Did you think I would still treat you the same? How could I, Chen Zihao, be infatuated with a worthless woman?" Chen Zihao said coldly.


    "Shing!"


    Chen Zihao pulled out the sword, his eyes now cold and devoid of any previous tenderness.


    "Boom!"


    The divine sword stabbed into the ground as Chen Zihao looked back at Zhong Shan.


    "Holy King Zhong, I hope you keep your word. Chen Xiaoqian is dead. My divine sword will destroy her soul instantly, and not even celestial elixirs can save her. These two treasures can only save one person. Now that Chen Xiaoqian is dead, it''s just me. I hope Holy King Zhong keeps his promise!" Chen Zihao said solemnly.


    After looking deeply at Chen Zihao, Zhong Shan nodded, "I, Zhong Shan, always keep my word. Liu Wushuang, unseal his cultivation and release him!"


    "Yes!"


    Liu Wushuang, stunned by Chen Zihao''s ruthlessness, snapped out of it at Zhong Shan''smand. Despite his own harsh nature, he had never been so cruel to his loved ones.


    Not daring to disobey Zhong Shan''s order, Liu Wushuang quickly walked up to Chen Zihao and performed a special seal-breaking technique.


    "Boom!"


    A powerful aura erupted from Chen Zihao. Even an injured celestial was still a celestial.


    Chen Zihao felt the power coursing through him as he nced at Zhong Shan. He didn''t have the courage to fight Zhong Shan, who had defeated Luo Xingchen and could easily kill him.


    Turning, Chen Zihao gave Chen Xiaoqian onest cold look.


    At this moment, Chen Xiaoqian seemedpletely broken, her tears uncontroble as she clutched the Sea-Stabilizing Pearl against her chest. Blood from her heart stained her hand and the pearl.


    Suddenly, amidst her tears, Chen Xiaoqian managed a smile.


    "Heh, heh heh," Chen Xiaoqianughed and cried simultaneously, appearing dazed.


    However, upon closer inspection, it was a smile of deep pain.


    "My husband, my husband, Xiaoqian ising to join you. Wait for me, husband!"


    "Husband, I''m sorry!"


    "Husband, please forgive Xiaoqian!" she said weakly.


    "Hmph, wretched woman!" Chen Zihao snorted coldly.


    Turning away, he ignored Chen Xiaoqian and left the hall. As promised, Zhong Shan did not stop him.


    But as Chen Zihao stepped out of the hall, a sudden cry echoed inside.


    "Xiaoqian!"


    Hearing this, Chen Zihao''s face stiffened. That voice?


    Filled with dread, Chen Zihao turned back and saw a sight that made his hair stand on end.


    "Reverse Time!"


    Luo Xingchen, holding Chen Xiaoqian, shouted. The blood around her flowed back, and even her wound started to reverse as if turning back to the moment before she was stabbed.


    Seeing this, Chen Zihao''s face turned pale. Luo Xingchen wasn''t dead? He had been in the hall the whole time.


    Terrified, Chen Zihao fled, flying far away. Why wasn''t Luo Xingchen dead?


    He didn''t dare linger and quickly escaped. As promised, no one from Great Dazhen stopped him.


    Chen Zihao flew out of Changjing, frantically heading further away.


    But as he lost sight of Changjing, he suddenly felt a chilling danger enveloping him.


    "Whoosh!"


    A golden arrow shot through his chest. Chen Zihao''s hair turned grey.


    Looking at the golden arrow in his chest, Chen Zihao managed to utter in his final moments, "Luo... Xing... Chen!"

 Chapter 906: Heroes Plot Against Great Dazhen

    <h4>Chapter 906: Heroes Plot Against Great Dazhen</h4>


    With a single arrow, Luo Xingchen shot through the distant Chen Zihao, then cradled the unconscious Chen Xiaoqian in his arms. Stroking her serene face, his eyes were filled with tenderness and sorrow.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan had already left the hall with Liu Wushuang.


    "Holy King, leaving Luo Xingchen here, will it...?" Liu Wushuang showed a trace of concern.


    "Make arrangements. From now on, Luo Xing Mansion will be his residence," Zhong Shan said.


    "Uh?" Liu Wushuang was momentarily surprised but quickly understood Zhong Shan''s meaning. Luo Xingchen was now part of Great Dazhen?


    "Understood!" Liu Wushuang promptly responded.


    Unbeknownst to many, Great Dazhen''s strength had expanded once again. Not only had they gained Luo Xingchen, a peerless powerhouse, but the greatest harvest was the recent imperial examination. The Reincarnation Domain had attracted arge number of talents.


    With proper training, these talents could be deployed to various regions, preparing for the next phase of expansion.


    Five yearster, in the court of Changjing.


    "Report to the Holy King, in the southern Reincarnation Domain, Wuxiang Holy Court''s Tianzi Mansion has suddenly seemed blessed by the heavens, destroying four great dynasties within five years!" Xiao Wang reported.


    "Without any reason, how could Wuxiang Holy Court suddenly be ''blessed by the heavens''?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "ording to scouts, a genius named ''Wang Jingwen'' has emerged. His military strategies are divine, and his grasp of situations is extraordinarily precise. The campaign against the four great dynasties was executed wlessly, leaving me in awe," Xiao Wang sighed.


    "Wang Jingwen?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. I have gathered extensive information about Wang Jingwen. Despite still being a mortal, he has be the top schr of Wuxiang Holy Court!"


    "Oh?"


    "Wang Jingwen first appeared in a small southern town of the Reincarnation Domain one hundred eighty years ago, where he participated in a local exam and took first ce. He then advanced to a major exam in an immortal city, winning the championship again. The city lord rmended him to take the imperial exam in Wuxiang Domain. This prodigious talent outshone eight renowned schrs, iming the title of top schr! Seven years ago, he arrived in the Reincarnation Domain. In just five years, he orchestrated a grand scheme that conquered the four great dynasties troubling Tianzi Mansion," Xiao Wang reported solemnly.


    "Holy King, it seems we have a formidable rival in the south!" Xiao Wang said calmly.


    Zhong Shan tapped the armrest of his dragon throne, seemingly lost in thought.


    The court remained silent, awaiting the Holy King''s decision.


    "Enough."


    With a final tap, Zhong Shan''s finger stopped on the armrest. He looked at Xiao Wang, "Wang Jingwen is not to be worried about. Our target is to unify the northern Reincarnation Domain."


    "Yes!" Xiao Wang responded immediately.


    Internally, Xiao Wang was curious. Why was Wang Jingwen not a concern? How would the Holy King deal with such a genius opponent? Unable to grasp Zhong Shan''s thoughts, Xiao Wang had no choice but to obey.


    Since Zhong Shan had dered it, the ministers naturally followed his lead.


    "How are the front lines?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    Xiao Wang stepped back into the line, and Yi Yan stepped forward.


    "Report to the Holy King, of the eight great dynasties on the front lines, three have already been destroyed by others. One dynasty even exterminated another and presented their king''s head to us as a token of submission. The remaining three dynasties are also on the verge of copse. I believe this is the critical moment. Our army can seize the opportunity to conquer the eight great dynasties! Thus, Great Dazhen will upy one-fifth of the northern Reincarnation Domain!" Yi Yan reported solemnly.


    "Approved!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    With that single word, the entirendscape of the Reincarnation Domain shifted dramatically. The army of Great Dazhen, fierce as wolves and tigers, charged towards the former eight great dynasties.


    Great Dazhen possessed the elite troops of a small thousand-world, and their generals were top-tier talents. After the imperial examinations, even more talents from the Reincarnation Domain were incorporated into their ranks.


    The national beast, the wolf tribe, and the four great mythical beast ns��dragon, tiger, phoenix, and tortoise��were all under Great Dazhen''s powerful influence, both in strange and righteous ways.


    Crushing opposition effortlessly, the once-stalled Great Dazhen surged forward again, unstoppable.


    In just six short years, Great Dazhen conquered the eight great dynasties, firmly establishing its position in the Reincarnation Domain. Now, Great Dazhen controlled one-fifth of the northern Reincarnation Domain, equating to one-tenth of the entire domain.


    Good news arrived at the court daily, filling the officials with vigor, and Zhong Shan himself wore a satisfied smile.


    In a grand pce in the northern Reincarnation Domain.


    The hall was surrounded by numerous thrones.


    There were sixteen dragon thrones and twelve other ornate seats.


    A total of twenty-eight seats, each upied by a person of imposing presence.


    On the foremost throne sat an emperor in a purple robe.


    "All of you here today are rulers of dynasties or leaders of holynds. It is my great honor that you havee," said the emperor in the purple robe.


    "Qingming Holy Emperor, since you''ve invited us, let''s get straight to the point," said one of the holynd leaders.


    The others nodded in agreement.


    "Very well, let''s get to the point. I think everyone here understands why I''ve called you. It''s because of Great Dazhen," Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    At the mention of Great Dazhen, almost everyone frowned slightly.


    "Great Dazhen has destroyed four holynds, eight great dynasties, and even the Time and Space Dojo! We all know this. Initially, none of us paid much attention to this holy court. But now we can see how powerful it has be. In just over thirty years since its founding, look at the immense achievements Great Dazhen has made," Qingming Holy Emperor said solemnly.


    The crowd fell silent.


    "Originally, this was a matter for our imperial dynasties, but Great Dazhen''s ambitions are truly vast. They don''t even spare merits, so I had no choice but to invite the leaders of the holynds as well," Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "But what can we do?" one of the holynd leaders frowned.


    "It''s not about what we can do, but about the progress of Great Dazhen. Recently, they have been resting and recuperating. But once they regain their strength, will they remain dormant? You''ve all seen Great Dazhen''s aggression. The longer we wait, the more dangerous it bes for us!" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    The powerful figures all frowned, clearly troubled.


    "To establish an imperial dynasty or create a holynd, one must be exceptionally proud and ambitious. Who among us is willing to bow down and be a vassal? Great Dazhen has too many talents and too much ambition. In the future, do you want to die in battle or submit?" Qingming Holy Emperor asked.


    "Die in battle? Submit? Hmph!" one of the holynd leaders snorted coldly.


    "This world is just like that: either we are the prey, or others are. Waiting passively for disaster to strike is not our style," Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "Qingming Holy Emperor, what exactly do you propose? Speak inly!" another emperor demanded.


    Qingming Holy Emperor nced at everyone and said, "To wrest the world from Great Dazhen!"


    To wrest the world from Great Dazhen? The expressions of the powerful figures changed. Although many had considered this, hearing it aloud was still a tremendous shock.


    The room fell silent.


    "Great Dazhen is not an easy target," one emperor shook his head.


    Others nodded in agreement, reluctant to be the ones to provoke Great Dazhen. The previous eight dynasties that challenged Great Dazhen facedplete annihtion. Would they risk it now?


    "Heh!" Qingming Holy Emperor let out a coldugh.


    "Hasn''t anyone noticed? Everyone here shares a border with Great Dazhen. It''s only a matter of time before we face disaster. How long do you n to dy?" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "You want us to wager our empires and holynds, to gamble alongside you?" one emperor frowned.


    All eyes turned to Qingming Holy Emperor.


    Establishing their kingdoms had not been easy. To risk everything on a whim? They were not that eager.


    With a slight smile, Qingming Holy Emperor shook his head, "This is a grand gamble, and even I don''t wish to take such a risk. That''s not what I''m suggesting."


    "Oh?"


    "What I propose is to eliminate Zhong Shan first, and then take on Great Dazhen!" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "Eliminate Zhong Shan? How? The number one expert in the Reincarnation Domain, Luo Xingchen, was killed by Zhong Shan. Who could stand against him?" one holynd leader shook his head.


    "The Time and Space Dojo? That was its fate, not Zhong Shan''s doing. Zhong Shan has only been in the small thousand-world for over thirty years. Before the creation of the heavens and earth, he was likely just a mortal. Even if his current strength is formidable, how strong can he really be?" Qingming Holy Emperor analyzed.


    "What about Luo Xingchen? Even someone as powerful as Luo Xingchen was defeated by Zhong Shan!"


    "Do you really believe that?" Qingming Holy Emperor sneered.


    "Huh?" Everyone was momentarily stunned.


    Why wouldn''t they believe it? It was known throughout the world!


    "Have you not heard ''Even divine abilities cannot ovee fate''? Luo Xingchen possessed powerful time-based divine abilities, but time itself is not invincible. His defeat, in my estimation, was not due to Zhong Shan being stronger, but rather Zhong Shan having a specific ability to counter Luo Xingchen!" Qingming Holy Emperor exined.


    "Oh?"


    "This is the only exnation that makes sense. Otherwise, how could someone who has only been cultivating for thirty years surpass Luo Xingchen? If that were the case, we might as well stop cultivating and wait for Zhong Shan to ughter us!" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    The hall fell into silence once more. Indeed, Luo Xingchen''s defeat was perplexing, and Zhong Shan''s capabilities were shrouded in mystery. Only this exnation made sense.


    "Speak, what do you propose?" one holynd leader asked, while the others looked on.


    Qingming Holy Emperor looked around at everyone and said firmly, "We must use all our resources to assassinate Zhong Shan! With careful nning and preparation, with the element of surprise, and with the elite forces of our sixteen dynasties and twelve holynds, can we not seed in assassinating a solitary Zhong Shan?"


    Assassination? Some had already guessed, but others were still shocked to hear it.


    "Gather fifty celestial experts from our sixteen dynasties and twelve holynds. It shouldn''t be difficult. A forceful ambush by fifty celestial experts��I''m sure that even if Luo Xingchen were alive, he wouldn''t survive!" Qingming Holy Emperor said gravely.

 Chapter 907: The Expansion of Great Dazhen

    <h4>Chapter 907: The Expansion of Great Dazhen</h4>


    With a single arrow, Luo Xingchen shot through the distant Chen Zihao, then cradled the unconscious Chen Xiaoqian in his arms. Stroking her serene face, his eyes were filled with tenderness and sorrow.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan had already left the hall with Liu Wushuang.


    "Holy King, leaving Luo Xingchen here, will it be...?" Liu Wushuang showed a trace of concern.


    "Make arrangements. From now on, Luo Xing Mansion will be his residence," Zhong Shan said.


    "Uh?" Liu Wushuang was momentarily surprised but quickly understood Zhong Shan''s meaning. Luo Xingchen was now part of Great Dazhen?


    "Understood!" Liu Wushuang promptly responded.


    Unbeknownst to many, Great Dazhen''s strength had expanded once again. Not only had they gained Luo Xingchen, a peerless powerhouse, but the greatest harvest was the recent imperial examination. The Reincarnation Domain had attracted arge number of talents.


    With proper training, these talents could be deployed to various regions, preparing for the next phase of expansion.


    Five yearster, in the court of Changjing.


    "Report to the Holy King, in the southern Reincarnation Domain, Wuxiang Holy Court''s Tianzi Mansion has suddenly seemed blessed by the heavens, destroying four great dynasties within five years!" Xiao Wang reported.


    "Without any reason, how could Wuxiang Holy Court suddenly be ''blessed by the heavens''?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "ording to scouts, a genius named ''Wang Jingwen'' has emerged. His military strategies are divine, and his grasp of situations is extraordinarily precise. The campaign against the four great dynasties was executed wlessly, leaving me in awe," Xiao Wang sighed.


    "Wang Jingwen?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, Your Majesty. I have gathered extensive information about Wang Jingwen. Despite still being a mortal, he has be the top schr of Wuxiang Holy Court!"


    "Oh?"


    "Wang Jingwen first appeared in a small southern town of the Reincarnation Domain one hundred eighty years ago, where he participated in a local exam and took first ce. He then advanced to a major exam in an immortal city, winning the championship again. The city lord rmended him to take the imperial exam in Wuxiang Domain. This prodigious talent outshone eight renowned schrs, iming the title of top schr! Seven years ago, he arrived in the Reincarnation Domain. In just five years, he orchestrated a grand scheme that conquered the four great dynasties troubling Tianzi Mansion," Xiao Wang reported solemnly.


    "Holy King, it seems we have a formidable rival in the south!" Xiao Wang said calmly.


    Zhong Shan tapped the armrest of his dragon throne, seemingly lost in thought.


    The court remained silent, awaiting the Holy King''s decision.


    "Enough."


    With a final tap, Zhong Shan''s finger stopped on the armrest. He looked at Xiao Wang, "Wang Jingwen is not to be worried about. Our target is to unify the northern Reincarnation Domain."


    "Yes!" Xiao Wang responded immediately.


    Internally, Xiao Wang was curious. Why was Wang Jingwen not a concern? How would the Holy King deal with such a genius opponent? Unable to grasp Zhong Shan''s thoughts, Xiao Wang had no choice but to obey.


    Since Zhong Shan had dered it, the ministers naturally followed his lead.


    "How are the front lines?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    Xiao Wang stepped back into the line, and Yi Yan stepped forward.


    "Report to the Holy King, of the eight great dynasties on the front lines, three have already been destroyed by others. One dynasty even exterminated another and presented their king''s head to us as a token of submission. The remaining three dynasties are also on the verge of copse. I believe this is the critical moment. Our army can seize the opportunity to conquer the eight great dynasties! Thus, Great Dazhen will upy one-fifth of the northern Reincarnation Domain!" Yi Yan reported solemnly.


    "Approved!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    With that single word, the entirendscape of the Reincarnation Domain shifted dramatically. The army of Great Dazhen, fierce as wolves and tigers, charged towards the former eight great dynasties.


    Great Dazhen possessed the elite troops of a small thousand-world, and their generals were top-tier talents. After the imperial examinations, even more talents from the Reincarnation Domain were incorporated into their ranks.


    The national beast, the wolf tribe, and the four great mythical beast ns��dragon, tiger, phoenix, and tortoise��were all under Great Dazhen''s powerful influence, both in strange and righteous ways.


    Crushing opposition effortlessly, the once-stalled Great Dazhen surged forward again, unstoppable.


    In just six short years, Great Dazhen conquered the eight great dynasties, firmly establishing its position in the Reincarnation Domain. Now, Great Dazhen controlled one-fifth of the northern Reincarnation Domain, equating to one-tenth of the entire domain.


    Good news arrived at the court daily, filling the officials with vigor, and Zhong Shan himself wore a satisfied smile.


    In a grand pce in the northern Reincarnation Domain.


    The hall was surrounded by numerous thrones.


    There were sixteen dragon thrones and twelve other ornate seats.


    A total of twenty-eight seats, each upied by a person of imposing presence.


    On the foremost throne sat an emperor in a purple robe.


    "All of you here today are rulers of dynasties or leaders of holynds. It is my great honor that you havee," said the emperor in the purple robe.


    "Qingming Holy Emperor, since you''ve invited us, let''s get straight to the point," said one of the holynd leaders.


    The others nodded in agreement.


    "Very well, let''s get to the point. I think everyone here understands why I''ve called you. It''s because of Great Dazhen," Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    At the mention of Great Dazhen, almost everyone frowned slightly.


    "Great Dazhen has destroyed four holynds, eight great dynasties, and even the Time and Space Dojo! We all know this. Initially, none of us paid much attention to this holy court. But now we can see how powerful it has be. In just over thirty years since its founding, look at the immense achievements Great Dazhen has made," Qingming Holy Emperor said solemnly.


    The crowd fell silent.


    "Originally, this was a matter for our imperial dynasties, but Great Dazhen''s ambitions are truly vast. They don''t even spare merits, so I had no choice but to invite the leaders of the holynds as well," Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "But what can we do?" one of the holynd leaders frowned.


    "It''s not about what we can do, but about the progress of Great Dazhen. Recently, they have been resting and recuperating. But once they regain their strength, will they remain dormant? You''ve all seen Great Dazhen''s aggression. The longer we wait, the more dangerous it bes for us!" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    The powerful figures all frowned, clearly troubled.


    "To establish an imperial dynasty or create a holynd, one must be exceptionally proud and ambitious. Who among us is willing to bow down and be a vassal? Great Dazhen has too many talents and too much ambition. In the future, do you want to die in battle or submit?" Qingming Holy Emperor asked.


    "Die in battle? Submit? Hmph!" one of the holynd leaders snorted coldly.


    "This world is just like that: either we are the prey, or others are. Waiting passively for disaster to strike is not our style," Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "Qingming Holy Emperor, what exactly do you propose? Speak inly!" another emperor demanded.


    "Approved!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    With Zhong Shan''s approval, the entirendscape of the Reincarnation Domain underwent a dramatic transformation. The army of Great Dazhen, fierce as wolves and tigers, charged towards the former eight great dynasties.


    Great Dazhen possessed the elite troops of a small thousand-world, and their generals were top-tier talents. After the imperial examinations, even more talents from the Reincarnation Domain were incorporated into their ranks.


    The national beast, the wolf tribe, and the four great mythical beast ns��dragon, tiger, phoenix, and tortoise��were all under Great Dazhen''s powerful influence, both in strange and righteous ways.


    Crushing opposition effortlessly, the once-stalled Great Dazhen surged forward again, unstoppable.


    In just six short years, Great Dazhen conquered the eight great dynasties, firmly establishing its position in the Reincarnation Domain. Now, Great Dazhen controlled one-fifth of the northern Reincarnation Domain, equating to one-tenth of the entire domain.


    Good news arrived at the court daily, filling the officials with vigor, and Zhong Shan himself wore a satisfied smile.


    In a grand pce in the northern Reincarnation Domain.


    The hall was surrounded by numerous thrones.


    There were sixteen dragon thrones and twelve other ornate seats.


    A total of twenty-eight seats, each upied by a person of imposing presence.


    On the foremost throne sat an emperor in a purple robe.


    "All of you here today are rulers of dynasties or leaders of holynds. It is my great honor that you havee," said the emperor in the purple robe.


    "Qingming Holy Emperor, since you''ve invited us, let''s get straight to the point," said one of the holynd leaders.


    The others nodded in agreement.


    "Very well, let''s get to the point. I think everyone here understands why I''ve called you. It''s because of Great Dazhen," Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    At the mention of Great Dazhen, almost everyone frowned slightly.


    "Great Dazhen has destroyed four holynds, eight great dynasties, and even the Time and Space Dojo! We all know this. Initially, none of us paid much attention to this holy court. But now we can see how powerful it has be. In just over thirty years since its founding, look at the immense achievements Great Dazhen has made," Qingming Holy Emperor said solemnly.


    The crowd fell silent.


    "Originally, this was a matter for our imperial dynasties, but Great Dazhen''s ambitions are truly vast. They don''t even spare merits, so I had no choice but to invite the leaders of the holynds as well," Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "But what can we do?" one of the holynd leaders frowned.


    "It''s not about what we can do, but about the progress of Great Dazhen. Recently, they have been resting and recuperating. But once they regain their strength, will they remain dormant? You''ve all seen Great Dazhen''s aggression. The longer we wait, the more dangerous it bes for us!" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    The powerful figures all frowned, clearly troubled.


    "To establish an imperial dynasty or create a holynd, one must be exceptionally proud and ambitious. Who among us is willing to bow down and be a vassal? Great Dazhen has too many talents and too much ambition. In the future, do you want to die in battle or submit?" Qingming Holy Emperor asked.


    "Die in battle? Submit? Hmph!" one of the holynd leaders snorted coldly.


    "This world is just like that: either we are the prey, or others are. Waiting passively for disaster to strike is not our style," Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "Qingming Holy Emperor, what exactly do you propose? Speak inly!" another emperor demanded.


    Qingming Holy Emperor nced at everyone and said, "To seize the world from Great Dazhen!"


    To seize the world from Great Dazhen? The expressions of the powerful figures changed. Although many had considered this, hearing it aloud was still a tremendous shock.


    The room fell silent again.


    "Great Dazhen is not an easy target," one emperor shook his head.


    Others nodded in agreement, reluctant to be the ones to provoke Great Dazhen. The previous eight dynasties that challenged Great Dazhen facedplete annihtion. Would they risk it now?


    "Heh!" Qingming Holy Emperor let out a coldugh.


    "Hasn''t anyone noticed? Everyone here shares a border with Great Dazhen. It''s only a matter of time before we face disaster. How long do you n to dy?" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "You want us to wager our empires and holynds, to gamble alongside you?" one emperor frowned.


    All eyes turned to Qingming Holy Emperor.


    Establishing their kingdoms had not been easy. To risk everything on a whim? They were not that eager.


    With a slight smile, Qingming Holy Emperor shook his head, "This is a grand gamble, and even I don''t wish to take such a risk. That''s not what I''m suggesting."


    "Oh?"


    "What I propose is to eliminate Zhong Shan first, and then take on Great Dazhen!" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "Eliminate Zhong Shan? How? The number one expert in the Reincarnation Domain, Luo Xingchen, was killed by Zhong Shan. Who could stand against him?" one holynd leader shook his head.


    "The Time and Space Dojo? That was its fate, not Zhong Shan''s doing. Zhong Shan has only been in the small thousand-world for over thirty years. Before the creation of the heavens and earth, he was likely just a mortal. Even if his current strength is formidable, how strong can he really be?" Qingming Holy Emperor analyzed.


    "What about Luo Xingchen? Even someone as powerful as Luo Xingchen was defeated by Zhong Shan!"


    "Do you really believe that?" Qingming Holy Emperor sneered.


    "Huh?" Everyone was momentarily stunned.


    Why wouldn''t they believe it? It was known throughout the world!


    "Have you not heard ''Even divine abilities cannot ovee fate''? Luo Xingchen possessed powerful time-based divine abilities, but time itself is not invincible. His defeat, in my estimation, was not due to Zhong Shan being stronger, but rather Zhong Shan having a specific ability to counter Luo Xingchen!" Qingming Holy Emperor exined.


    "Oh?"


    "This is the only exnation that makes sense. Otherwise, how could someone who has only been cultivating for thirty years surpass Luo Xingchen? If that were the case, we might as well stop cultivating and wait for Zhong Shan to ughter us!" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    The hall fell into silence once more. Indeed, Luo Xingchen''s defeat was perplexing, and Zhong Shan''s capabilities were shrouded in mystery. Only this exnation made sense.


    "Speak, what do you propose?" one holynd leader asked, while the others looked on.


    Qingming Holy Emperor looked around at everyone and said firmly, "We must use all our resources to assassinate Zhong Shan! With careful nning and preparation, with the element of surprise, and with the elite forces of our sixteen dynasties and twelve holynds, can we not seed in assassinating a solitary Zhong Shan?"


    Assassination? Some had already guessed, but others were still shocked to hear it.


    "Gather fifty celestial experts from our sixteen dynasties and twelve holynds. It shouldn''t be difficult. A forceful ambush by fifty celestial experts��I''m sure that even if Luo Xingchen were alive, he wouldn''t survive!" Qingming Holy Emperor said gravely.


    Qingming Holy Emperor nced at everyone and said, "To seize the world from Great Dazhen!"


    To seize the world from Great Dazhen? The expressions of the powerful figures changed. Although many had considered this, hearing it aloud was still a tremendous shock.


    The room fell silent.


    "Great Dazhen is not an easy target," one emperor shook his head.


    Others nodded in agreement, reluctant to be the ones to provoke Great Dazhen. The previous eight dynasties that challenged Great Dazhen facedplete annihtion. Would they risk it now?


    "Heh!" Qingming Holy Emperor let out a coldugh.


    "Hasn''t anyone noticed? Everyone here shares a border with Great Dazhen. It''s only a matter of time before we face disaster. How long do you n to dy?" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "You want us to wager our empires and holynds, to gamble alongside you?" one emperor frowned.


    All eyes turned to Qingming Holy Emperor.


    Establishing their kingdoms had not been easy. To risk everything on a whim? They were not that eager.


    With a slight smile, Qingming Holy Emperor shook his head, "This is a grand gamble, and even I don''t wish to take such a risk. That''s not what I''m suggesting."


    "Oh?"


    "What I propose is to eliminate Zhong Shan first, and then take on Great Dazhen!" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "Eliminate Zhong Shan? How? The number one expert in the Reincarnation Domain, Luo Xingchen, was killed by Zhong Shan. Who could stand against him?" one holynd leader shook his head.


    "The Time and Space Dojo? That was its fate, not Zhong Shan''s doing. Zhong Shan has only been in the small thousand-world for over thirty years. Before the creation of the heavens and earth, he was likely just a mortal. Even if his current strength is formidable, how strong can he really be?" Qingming Holy Emperor analyzed.


    "What about Luo Xingchen? Even someone as powerful as Luo Xingchen was defeated by Zhong Shan!"


    "Do you really believe that?" Qingming Holy Emperor sneered.


    "Huh?" Everyone was momentarily stunned.


    Why wouldn''t they believe it? It was known throughout the world!


    "Have you not heard ''Even divine abilities cannot ovee fate''? Luo Xingchen possessed powerful time-based divine abilities, but time itself is not invincible. His defeat, in my estimation, was not due to Zhong Shan being stronger, but rather Zhong Shan having a specific ability to counter Luo Xingchen!" Qingming Holy Emperor exined.


    "Oh?"


    "This is the only exnation that makes sense. Otherwise, how could someone who has only been cultivating for thirty years surpass Luo Xingchen? If that were the case, we might as well stop cultivating and wait for Zhong Shan to ughter us!" Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    The hall fell into silence once more. Indeed, Luo Xingchen''s defeat was perplexing, and Zhong Shan''s capabilities were shrouded in mystery. Only this exnation made sense.


    "Speak, what do you propose?" one holynd leader asked, while the others looked on.


    Qingming Holy Emperor looked around at everyone and said firmly, "We must use all our resources to assassinate Zhong Shan! With careful nning and preparation, with the element of surprise, and with the elite forces of our sixteen dynasties and twelve holynds, can we not seed in assassinating a solitary Zhong Shan?"


    Assassination? Some had already guessed, but others were still shocked to hear it.


    "Gather fifty celestial experts from our sixteen dynasties and twelve holynds. It shouldn''t be difficult. A forceful ambush by fifty celestial experts��I''m sure that even if Luo Xingchen were alive, he wouldn''t survive!" Qingming Holy Emperor said gravely.


    In the Underworld, within Great Dazhen, Luo Xing Mansion.


    Luo Xing Mansion was a luxurious residence built after the battle at the Reincarnation Pce. In Changjing, only a few important people could reside in such a prestigious area.


    At a pond within Luo Xing Mansion, a man in a blue robe was fishing leisurely. The man was none other than Luo Xingchen, who had joined Great Dazhen over a decade ago.


    As Luo Xingchen fished, a woman prepared a table of delicacies beside him. After finishing, she walked behind Luo Xingchen and gently massaged his shoulders.


    "Husband!" the woman said softly, her eyes full of affection.


    Luo Xingchen, holding the fishing rod with one hand, patted her hand with the other, "What''s wrong, Xiaoqian?"


    "It''s all my fault!" Xiaoqian said sadly.


    "Didn''t I tell you? Don''t mention the past anymore. Having you is enough for me!" Luo Xingchen replied.


    "Yes, but it''s a grievance for you. You were once a sect leader, and now you are a guardian of the Holy Court," Xiaoqian said, feeling guilty.


    "It''s not a grievance. A sect leader? I prefer this life!" Luo Xingchen put down the fishing rod and looked at Xiaoqian earnestly.


    Xiaoqian blushed slightly and shook her head, "If it weren''t for me, you wouldn''t have lost to the Holy King. You must have been distracted at that time!"


    Luo Xingchen shook his head, his expression filled with reminiscence.


    "No, the Holy King''s power is unfathomable! I am not his match!" Luo Xingchen shook his head.


    "But didn''t you say the Holy King is only at the Celestial Immortal level? You''re an Ancient Immortal; how is that possible?" Chen Xiaoqian frowned.


    "You don''t understand. Sometimes strength cannot be measured by realm alone. The Holy King is undoubtedly the strongest opponent I have ever faced. I, an Ancient Immortal? Heh, what does that matter? I even used my Time Reversal technique, and the Holy King never once disyed his ''world.'' Although I haven''t seen it, I can sense the terror of his ''world,''" Luo Xingchen exined, shaking his head.


    "Hmm," Chen Xiaoqian nodded.


    "Perhaps I neglected your preferences in the past. Rest assured, from now on, I will treat you well!" Luo Xingchen said tenderly.


    "Alright," Chen Xiaoqian''s eyes filled with tears of emotion.


    In a forest within the Reincarnation Domain, Zhong Shan and Wang Ku stood among the trees, gazing at the brilliant light in the distant sky.


    A battle, an unprecedented battle, was unfolding. Strong figures filled the sky, blood sttered in all directions. A white figure darted among the numerous powerful figures, bringing shes of light and harvesting lives.


    "Empress Xianxian is indeed a prodigy. In such a short time, herbat experience has be so rich. It won''t be long before she no longer needs my protection," Wang Ku said gravely.


    "Indeed, you''ve worked hard over the years," Zhong Shan said.


    "It wasn''t hard for me, mainly for Empress Xianxian. She has subdued the wolf tribes in the Reincarnation Domain and set everything on the right track. This time it''s the Myriad Demon Alliance. Empress Xianxian alone is enough," Wang Ku said solemnly.


    "How does Xianxianpare to Emperor Xuanhao?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Empress Xianxian? Her talent is not inferior to Emperor Xuanhao''s, and in some aspects, it even surpasses him. However, she stillcks one thing that Emperor Xuanhao had in abundance," Wang Ku said.


    "Oh?"


    "Fierce pride. Emperor Xuanhao''s fierce pride was so immense that it shook the small thousand-world. Empress Xianxiancks this fierce pride," Wang Ku said, shaking his head.


    "That might be rted to their upbringing. Xianxian was born sheltered and never needed to fight. Emperor Xuanhao, on the other hand, grew up fighting constantly. That fierce pride was ingrained in him. It was fight or die for him, which shaped who he was. As for Xianxian, I believe she will develop a fierce pride equal to Emperor Xuanhao''s in the future. Over the years, I''ve let her independently subdue the wolf tribes to cultivate this fierce pride. Haven''t you noticed that Xianxian has be more decisive?" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "Indeed, she already has the demeanor of a supreme leader," Wang Ku nodded.


    "Yes, Xianxian is on the right track now. Soon, I''ll have her lead the elite wolf tribes to subdue more territories, and you won''t need to follow her anymore," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood! I can then gather new forces for the Holy King," Wang Ku said solemnly.


    "Oh? New forces?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "Yes, in the underworld, there are many skeleton tribes. I can lead them, especially in the Reincarnation Domain, to form a powerful skeleton army for the Holy King. This army can help expand the territory of Great Dazhen," Wang Ku said.


    "Good! That will be a fitting title for you as themander of the Ninth Legion," Zhong Shan said, satisfied.


    "Yes!" Wang Ku replied.


    Zhong Shan returned to Changjing.


    "Report to the Holy King, there are visitors in Changjing requesting an audience with you. They are three familiar faces!" Yi Yan said, looking at Zhong Shan curiously.


    "Oh? Who?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly surprised.


    "Gui Shou, Ao Lie, and Yin Shatian!" Yi Yan replied with a puzzled expression.


    Gui Shou, the former supreme leader of the Xuanwu n in the small thousand-world, was forced by Zhong Shan to undergo tribtion and ascend to the great thousand-world.


    Ao Lie, the former Dragon n Supreme of the Small Thousand World, was forced to ascend by Emperor Xuanhao. However, he led a group of powerful beings from the Great Thousand World back into the Small Thousand World to seize the Dragon n''s ancestral seal. Unfortunately, the powerful beings were killed by Xuan Yuan, the Yin n, and Bai Qi of the Great Qin. Only Ao Lie survived, and heter disappeared.


    Yin Shatian, the former Tiger n Crown Prince of the Small Thousand World, once followed Da Luo Heavenly Court''s King Xuan. Unfortunately, after King Xuan''s death, it was rumored that Yin Shatian also died. However, he has now mysteriously appeared in Changjing.


    "They have finally arrived?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Huh?" Yi Yan looked puzzled. The Holy King knew they wereing?


    "Let them in!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!"


    Soon, the three were brought in.


    "Gui Shou, Ao Lie, Yin Shatian, pay respects to the Holy King. May the Holy King''s blessings be as eternal as the heavens!" The three greeted respectfully.


    Their respectful greeting puzzled Yi Yan. This kind of reverence was usually reserved for Great Dazhen''s officials.


    "Have you thought it through?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Gui Shou nodded, "In ourst bet with the Holy King, the Holy King won. We abide by the bet and submit to Great Dazhen."


    "Ao Lie has no ce to call home. In the past, the Holy King did not abandon me, and we made a bet. Ao Lie is willing to serve the Holy King loyally!" Ao Lie also responded respectfully.


    "Yin Shatian, at the Holy King''smand!" Yin Shatian said respectfully.


    Watching the three, Yi Yan frowned. Another bet? It seemed he had also joined Great Dazhen after a bet with the Holy King, which the Holy King won.


    When had the Holy King made bets with these three?


    How many secrets did the Holy King have?


    Yi Yan''s eyes showed respect and admiration.


    "Good. I have been waiting for the three of you for over thirty years! You are not mere soldiers; from today on, Gui Shou will resume his position as the Supreme of the Xuanwu n in Great Dazhen," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood!" Gui Shou responded immediately.


    "Ao Lie, you will resume your position as the Supreme of the Dragon n in Great Dazhen," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Understood!"


    "Yin Shatian, you will be the Supreme of the Tiger n in the underworld,manding the Tiger n in Great Dazhen," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Understood!"


    "Your residences will be in the Four Symbols Garden. I have instructed Phoenix n Supreme Wu Luo to assist you in familiarizing yourselves with everything. She will also teach you the Four Symbols Formation. Lead your respective ns well!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" the three responded.


    Soon, the three were led away to the Four Symbols Garden.


    As they left, Yi Yan sighed, "The Holy King''s foresight is unparalleled. I am not his equal!"


    "Oh?"


    "In the Great Thousand World, the four ns, not being national beasts, must have felt dissatisfied and sluggish. I was about to report to the Holy King that if this continued, the strong members of the four ns might fall apart and leave one after another. But now that the three have arrived, everything has been resolved!"


    "Gui Shou and Ao Lie were originally Supremes, their remaining prestige can naturally control their ns. Yin Shatian, as the former Tiger n Crown Prince, can have the same effect. As for Wu Luo, she has always followed Wu Jiutian and holds significant influence over the Phoenix n. With this, the four ns are settled, and there is no longer any concern about the Four Symbols Formation!" Yi Yan said with admiration.


    "Indeed!"


    "My strategies were limited to the Small Thousand World, but the Holy King was already nning for the Great Thousand World. I am not his equal!" Yi Yan said.


    "Alright, I am well aware of your talents. No need to be humble before me. Sometimes, humility is pride!" Zhong Shan teased.


    Yi Yan scratched his nose and smiled wryly.


    Great Dazhen''s cohesion grew stronger. About ten years passed peacefully. During this time, Great Dazhen did not engage in any major wars, except for one. An empire provoked a city of Great Dazhen over some interests. In two months, that empire waspletely annihted without causing any ripples.


    More and more wolf tribes were subdued. Great Dazhen''s Dragon n, Tiger n, Phoenix n, and Xuanwu n grew stronger. Even a skeleton army appeared slowly at the borders of Great Dazhen. Instead of attacking, they joined Great Dazhen.


    It was clear to any discerning observer that in these ten years, Great Dazhen''s strength had expanded again.


    Led by Qingming Holy Emperor, the group of strong figures grew increasingly anxious, unable to find an opportunity to strike against Zhong Shan.


    "Holy Emperor, big news! Zhong Shan of Great Dazhen has left Changjing!" A scout reported, kneeling before Qingming Holy Emperor.


    "What? Where did he go?" Qingming Holy Emperor asked, delighted.


    "To the Reincarnation Pce. Zhong Shan''s forces are heading towards the Reincarnation Pce, with few troops apanying them," the scout reported.


    "Reincarnation Pce? Good, the Reincarnation Pce! Such an opportunity must not be missed!" Qingming Holy Emperor immediately stood up.

 Chapter 908: A Glimpse of Divine Grace

    <h4>Chapter 908: A Glimpse of Divine Grace</h4>


    Zhong Shan''s entourage arrived once more outside the Reincarnation Pce.


    Endless ck mist still enshrouded the pce, thicker than before.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan stepped out of the Dragon-Phoenix Emperor''s chariot.


    Gazing at the rolling ck mist, Zhong Shan frowned. Was this stirred by the Mud Buddha, or was it the result of the feng shui disruption mentionedst time?


    The convoy slowly halted in a vast za.


    The za was filled with numerous soldiers, with Yan Chongzhi and the Mud Buddha waiting quietly.


    As the Dragon-Phoenix Emperor''s chariot stopped, Zhong Shan stepped down, and everyone saluted.


    "May the Holy King enjoy eternal blessings and a life as long as the heavens!" the soldiers shouted in unison.


    "Greetings to the Holy King!" the Mud Buddha and Yan Chongzhi immediately said.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Mud Buddha, you summoned me here. Have you taken control of the Reincarnation Pce?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No, I encountered a difficult problem and sought the Holy King''s decision," the Mud Buddha replied respectfully.


    "Oh?"


    "Does the Holy King notice that the hostility around the Reincarnation Pce has intensified?" the Mud Buddha asked with a wry smile.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Something significant may be about to happen in the Reincarnation Pce," the Mud Buddha sighed.


    "Something significant?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "There''s arge hall over there. Let''s discuss it inside," the Mud Buddha suggested instead of answering directly.


    Sensing the seriousness of the matter, Zhong Shan nodded and dismissed everyone else.


    "Yan Chongzhi, stand guard!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Yan Chongzhi responded immediately.


    Zhong Shan and the Mud Buddha entered the hall.


    "Alright, speak," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, Holy King. In fact, the Mud Buddha lineage, long ago, was one of the main controllers of the Reincarnation Pce," the Mud Buddha said solemnly.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Zhong Shan had already guessed this. In the past, why could the Mud Buddha create the derived world of the ''Netherworld Reincarnation Pce''? Why could he use secret techniques in the Small Thousand World to project his divine sense near the Reincarnation Pce?


    These clues had led Zhong Shan to suspect the Mud Buddha''s connection to the Reincarnation Pce. He just hadn''t expected that the Mud Buddha''s lineage used to control it.


    "I know the Holy King might have guessed this, but today, that''s not the main point," the Mud Buddha said seriously.


    "Oh?"


    "The Reincarnation Pce is not the same as it once was. ording to information left by my ancestors, I sessfully entered the inner area. However, upon entering, I discovered that changes had urred after my lineage entered the Small Thousand World," the Mud Buddha exined.


    "Changes? What kind of changes?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "The Reincarnation Pce has been tampered with. Something unknown is sealed beneath it, something that appears to be an unparalleled fiend," the Mud Buddha said with a frown.


    "After the Mud Buddha lineage entered the Small Thousand World?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, my lineage entered the Small Thousand World 800,000 years ago. This fiend was sealed during that period. The one who sealed it was incredibly powerful, using formations of merit, fame, feng shui, and even destiny," the Mud Buddha said, his eyelid twitching.


    "What do you mean?" Zhong Shan asked, his eyes fixed on the Mud Buddha.


    "The one who sealed the fiend must have been either a Sage or someone very close to that level. And it wasn''t done by just one person," the Mud Buddha exined, frowning.


    Zhong Shan furrowed his brow. Another seal? In the Yang Realm, a peerless fiend, Guiche, was sealed with five-colored divine stones on Ghost Ind. And now, under the Reincarnation Pce in the Yin Realm, there was another sealed peerless fiend?


    "Is the seal about to break?" Zhong Shan asked, his brow knitted.


    "Yes, perhaps the fiend inside is too powerful, or maybe the battle between you and Luo Xingchenst time disrupted the feng shui. I think the peerless fiend inside is not far from breaking the seal," the Mud Buddha said, frowning.


    Zhong Shan paced back and forth in the hall while the Mud Buddha stood respectfully.


    "The Reincarnation Domain... No wonder there are so few major powers here. Neither the Holy Courts nor the Dojos seem willing to station themselves here. It seems many people know the secret of the Reincarnation Domain, and that secret lies beneath the Reincarnation Pce! It''s enough to make countless strong figures avoid this ce," Zhong Shan mused.


    "That should be the case," the Mud Buddha nodded.


    "Who could make countless strong figures avoid this ce? What kind of strong figure is sealed below? Hundreds of thousands of years ago, this should coincide with the time when the Grand Dao Ancestor Hongjun and the group of Sages in the Yang Realm reversed the fate of heaven. With such a huge event in the Yang Realm, what happened in the Yin Realm?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    "Holy King, I cannot open the main hall of the Reincarnation Pce yet, but I have opened the hall with the seal. The Netherworld Rose is bing more mature. When it blooms, that will be the moment the peerless fiend breaks free," the Mud Buddha said.


    "Let me go in with you and take a look," Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "Yes!"


    Leaving the hall, the Mud Buddha and Zhong Shan walked to the edge of the endless ck mist.


    The Mud Buddha extended his hand, and a white orb of light appeared, emanating rings of light that repelled the ck mist. Zhong Shan and the Mud Buddha were untouched by the ck mist as they walked forward.


    As the two slowly walked into the ck mist surrounding the Reincarnation Pce, a figure in a purple robe suddenly appeared on a distant mountain peak.


    The figure stood on the peak, followed by another man who seemed to be his subordinate. Soon, more powerful figures arrived one by one, gathering around the man in the purple robe.


    "Qingming Holy Emperor, Zhong Shan is here?" one of them asked.


    "Yes, his entourage is over there," Qingming Holy Emperor said gravely.


    "What about him?"


    "Zhong Shan entered the ck mist surrounding the Reincarnation Pce," Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "He went in? He can enter?" someone asked in surprise.


    "Yes, he went in, but not by his own strength. He used a treasure, a treasure that repels hostility, to walk right in," Qingming Holy Emperor said with a look of jealousy.


    "The Reincarnation Pce? What secrets does it hold? Will Zhong Shan gain more power by going in?" another person asked.


    "I don''t know. For hundreds of thousands of years, everyone has avoided the Reincarnation Pce. Even the Sages of the Yin Realm seem reluctant toe to this domain, as if they fear getting entangled in some karma. Zhong Shan will not find it easy in there," Qingming Holy Emperor shook his head.


    "What do we do now?" someone else asked.


    "Wait, wait until all our celestial experts have gathered, then we strike when Zhong Shanes out!" Qingming Holy Emperormanded.


    "We''ve gathered the strongest from each of our dynasties and holynds, about fifty celestial experts!" someone said.


    "Even better. We''ll set up the ''Ancient Immortal Destruction Formation.'' What do you all think?" Qingming Holy Emperor said confidently.


    "The Ancient Immortal Destruction Formation? There''s no way Zhong Shan can survive that!" another person eximed excitedly.


    "Alright then, let''s prepare," Qingming Holy Emperor ordered.


    "Yes!" everyone nodded in agreement.


    After walking for an hour, Zhong Shan and the Mud Buddha arrived at a massive pceplex.


    Seeing the grandiosity of the ce, Zhong Shan marveled at its scale,parable to Changjing. The Reincarnation Pce was one of the Ten Pces. If just one of the Ten Pces was this magnificent, who originally controlled them all? And where were the other nine pces? Was this vast domain once the territory of a mighty power?


    With a heavy heart, Zhong Shan followed the Mud Buddha to the entrance of arge hall.


    The door to the hall was ajar, and dense ck mist was pouring out from inside.


    As they reached the entrance, Zhong Shan looked inside.


    The interior of the hall was pitch ck, resembling a pond filled with ck water. The thick mist emanated from this ck water.


    Above the surface of the ck water was a slowly growing rose, ck and shiny, radiating a sinister allure.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "The peerless fiend is sealed beneath this. The ck water is concentrated hostility. That rose is the Netherworld Rose. Its blooming signifies the breaking of the seal, and when it blooms, the peerless fiend will be unstoppable. Holy King, what should we do?" the Mud Buddha asked, frowning.


    Staring at the ck water and the Netherworld Rose, Zhong Shan furrowed his brows deeply.


    The Mud Buddha stood quietly, not disturbing Zhong Shan''s thoughts.


    After some contemtion, Zhong Shan exhaled slowly and said, "A fiend? Who says it must be a fiend?"


    "Huh?"


    "Instead of waiting for it to break the seal, why don''t we help it break free?" Zhong Shan said seriously.


    The Mud Buddha was momentarily taken aback, then after a moment of consideration, he nodded solemnly.


    There was no need to spell it out. A fiend was bound to emerge, and Great Dazhen would never relocate. Instead of waiting for the fiend to emerge and potentially threaten Dazhen, they might as well help it break free, thereby earning a small favor in the process.


    "I will break the seal immediately," the Mud Buddha said.


    "Wait, is it possible to preserve the Netherworld Rose?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "It can be picked, but it can''t be preserved," the Mud Buddha said.


    "Oh?"


    "It''s entirelyposed of hostility. Once picked, it will dissipate immediately. It can only exist in this ck water. Unless...," the Mud Buddha hesitated.


    "Unless what?"


    "Unless it is nourished with Divine Dew," the Mud Buddha said.


    "Divine Dew?" Zhong Shan''s expression turned peculiar.


    "Yes, Divine Dew. Unfortunately, it cannot be produced in this region. It can only be found in certain ces in the Yang Realm," the Mud Buddha said, shaking his head helplessly.


    "If it''s Divine Dew, I have some," Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    "Huh?" The Mud Buddha looked at Zhong Shan in disbelief. Was he serious?


    How could the Holy King have Divine Dew? It wasn''t something that existed in the Small Thousand World.


    Zhong Shan indeed had Divine Dew. The jade vase given to him by Laozi contained thirty-six types of water, one of which was Divine Dew. As for how something from the Yang Realm ended up in Zhong Shan''s possession in the Yin Realm, that might just be Zhong Shan''s secret.

 Chapter 909: Communicating Between the Yin and Yang Realms

    <h4>Chapter 909: Communicating Between the Yin and Yang Realms</h4>


    Outside the sealed hall, Zhong Shan took out a jade vase. Under the Mud Buddha''s curious gaze, he carefully poured out a strand of emerald green liquid.


    The emerald green liquid, under Zhong Shan''s control, slowly floated towards the center of the hall, enveloping the Netherworld Rose. Then, Zhong Shan used a crystal to seal the liquid and the rose together.


    "Crack!"


    The rose''s stem broke off.


    "Whoosh!"


    Below the hall, the ck water roiled. The loss of the rose caused the hall''s formation to undergo a strange deviation.


    A massive amount of hostility surged upward.


    "Holy King, I will activate the feng shui formation. It will take about three hours to release the being inside. However, if I focus all my energy on the formation, I won''t be able to protect you from the hostility. Please leave the formation first," the Mud Buddha said.


    "Mm," Zhong Shan nodded.


    After putting away the Netherworld Rose, Zhong Shan''s figure flickered, and he rushed towards the outside. The Mud Buddha began to set up the feng shui formation.


    The journey inward was slow, but Zhong Shan''s speed leaving was extremely fast. In the blink of an eye, he passed through the vast range of hostility and emerged outside.


    However, the moment he stepped outside, Zhong Shan was suddenly startled, and his figure came to an abrupt halt.


    Zhong Shan noticed something was wrong. Why had it suddenly be so bright outside?


    It wasn''t much brighter, just slightly, but even this slight change was something his shadow body couldn''t ignore.


    Being a shadow incarnation, Zhong Shan was extremely sensitive to light. This subtle change, imperceptible to others, was magnified to the extreme for him.


    Something was off. It seemed he had entered a formation.


    Zhong Shan remained still, not moving at all, as if searching for something unusual around him.


    Gradually, Zhong Shan noticed something strange. A space in front of him seemed ordinary, but when he focused on it, he could see it was slightly different from its surroundings, subtly shifting.


    "Since you''re here, there''s no need to hide," Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    Sure enough, the space suddenly shimmered, revealing a man in a purple dragon robe.


    "Great Holy King of Dazhen, you are indeed exceptionally astute. You entered my formation and immediately noticed the difference!" the man in the purple robe said.


    "Qingming Holy Emperor?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed slightly.


    "Zhong Holy King, how do you find my formation?" Qingming Holy Emperor sneered.


    "Entering and exiting as if it were nothing," Zhong Shan said disdainfully.


    "Hah, hahahaha, what a boast! Entering and exiting as if it were nothing?" Qingming Holy Emperor''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhong Shan took a step and walked out of the formation!


    Inside the formation, Qingming Holy Emperor''sughter abruptly stopped, as if he had choked on his own saliva.


    "Cough, cough, cough!"


    After a series of coughs, Qingming Holy Emperor''s face turned red.


    Qingming Holy Emperor suddenly felt an overwhelming frustration. He had carefully nned and set up this formation to trap Zhong Shan, ensuring everything was perfect. Yet, the next moment, Zhong Shan stepped out of the formation as if it were nothing. How could Qingming Holy Emperor ept this? How could he bear this embarrassment?


    "Yan Chongzhi?" Zhong Shan noticed Yan Chongzhi fighting in the distance as soon as he stepped out of the formation.


    At this moment, the ground was littered with the bodies of Great Dazhen soldiers. Fifteen peerless experts were ughtering the soldiers with ease.


    Yan Chongzhi was injured on his shoulder, clearly indicating that these were absolute powerhouses.


    Great Celestials? A group of Great Celestials?


    With a loud shout from Zhong Shan, both sides stopped fighting.


    "Holy King!" Yan Chongzhi said with a hint of bitterness.


    Three million troops were stationed here, with two million patrolling around the Reincarnation Pce, leaving only one million present. The opponents were overwhelmingly strong, far beyond their level. If the Holy King hadn''te out in time, everyone might have been killed.


    "Qingming Holy Emperor, what''s going on? Didn''t Zhong Shan enter the formation?" someone outside shouted in surprise.


    Qingming Holy Emperor emerged, looking speechless at the question. You ask me? How should I know?


    "Yan Chongzhi, lead the troops to the side. I''ll handle this," Zhong Shanmanded in a deep voice.


    "Yes!"


    Yan Chongzhi quickly led the army away. The Great Celestials didn''t pay much attention to the retreating soldiers; their target was Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan turned to face the group of experts.


    A total of fifty-two! Fifty-two Great Celestials?


    "So, the leaders of the various heavenly courts and holynds have gathered here. Why? Instead of considering tribute to Great Dazhen, you want to provoke a conflict? Have you forgotten the destruction of the eight great heavenly courts?" Zhong Shan said with a cold shout.


    At his shout, some showed signs of fear, but the leaders of the holynds and heavenly courts remained resolute. At this point, there was no turning back.


    "No more nonsense. If trapping him doesn''t work, we''ll fight him. Deploy the Ancient Immortal Destruction Formation!" Qingming Holy Emperor shouted.


    "Whoosh!"


    The experts quickly surrounded Zhong Shan, emitting a lot of blue light. The blue light circled around Zhong Shan, forming a well-like structure that trapped him inside, resembling a reincarnation passage.


    As the formation activated, the sky and earth darkened, and the space of the Great Thousand World seemed to faintly tremble.


    Yan Chongzhi, who was retreating, looked on in horror.


    This...?


    Shaking the space? This was the space of the Great Thousand World! What kind of formation was this? So terrifying!


    The blue well reached the sky and extended to the ground. It appeared extremely domineering, resembling Zhong Shan''s reincarnation passage.


    Zhong Shan was trapped inside this well-like formation. It wasn''t a trapping formation but one that amplified the power of the experts inside.


    Zhong Shan noticed something else. Thews and rules of the inside were disrupted, making it impossible to use spells. This well created an isted environment where one could only wait for death.


    "Whoosh!"


    A figure slowly emerged above the well: Qingming Holy Emperor.


    "Zhong Shan, have you noticed how this formation differs from others?" Qingming Holy Emperor sneered.


    Zhong Shan coldly stared at Qingming Holy Emperor, "Different? I don''t see any difference."


    "Hmph, keep being stubborn. This formation can''t be broken. To get out, you''ll have to face all ourbined strength. Inside, you can''t use any spells. This formation was designed specifically for Ancient Immortals. Even they would fall here. You won''t survive today," Qingming Holy Emperor said.


    "Is that so? Even Ancient Immortals can''t escape?" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "Unless they are merged with the Heavenly Dao, don''t even think about it," Qingming Holy Emperor responded just as coldly.


    As he spoke, Qingming Holy Emperor raised his hand towards the sky.


    "Boom!"


    A powerful stream of water seemed to suddenly crash down from above.


    The water stream was grey, appearing incredibly heavy.


    Zhong Shan dodged, and the water stream smashed into the ground, creating an extremely deep pit. The corrosiveness of this water stream was astonishing, even stronger than the most powerful attacks of a Celestial Immortal. What was even more terrifying was that the stream seemed endless.


    "This is Weak Water. It destroys souls upon contact," Qingming Holy Emperor said coldly.


    Instantly, more and more Weak Water columns descended from the sky, growingrger and more numerous.


    Zhong Shan suddenly produced a small bottle, the Jade Purity Vase. Opening the vase, he began to collect the liquid.


    "Whoosh!"


    Large amounts of liquid were sucked into the vase.


    However, after a short while, Zhong Shan frowned, realizing that although the Jade Purity Vase could temporarily resist the corrosiveness of the Weak Water, it wouldn''tst long.


    "It''s useless. Even Celestial Artifacts can''t withstand its corrosiveness," Qingming Holy Emperor sneered.


    The Weak Water from the sky increased, forming a column as wide as the well-like structure, aiming directly at Zhong Shan.


    With a flicker of his body, Zhong Shan attempted to dash towards the wall of the well.


    "Boom!"


    A powerful force from one of the experts within the well struck Zhong Shan back. There was no escape.


    Seeing the immense Weak Water about to pour down, Zhong Shan''s eyebrows slightly twitched, and the Emperor''s Diagram suddenly appeared above his head.


    The Emperor''s Diagram, in its yin form, was ck with a central white dot��the yang eye of the yin-yang fish. The white dot suddenly expanded and generated a suction force, absorbing all the falling Weak Water.


    "Absorbing again? Let''s see how long you can keep that up!" Qingming Holy Emperor sneered.


    In the Yang Realm, Zhong Shan''s true body, along with Princess Nine-Tails and Su Afo, were flying among a mountain range.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan''s expression changed. He led the trio tond in a valley.


    "Wait here," Zhong Shan said.


    He then flew to the mountaintop, looking towards anotherrge valley.


    "What is Zhong Shan doing?" Princess Nine-Tails wondered, perplexed by the sudden stop.


    "What else could it be? We drank so much at the Chess Saint''s mansion. People have natural needs, and Zhong Shan must have them too," Su Afo joked.


    "Nonsense. Zhong Shan is already a Celestial Immortal. How could he have such mundane needs?" Princess Nine-Tails retorted.


    "Ssh��!"


    From the mountaintop, a powerful sound of rushing water could be heard, crashing against the mountain and causing a series of booming noises.


    Su Afo: "...!"


    Princess Nine-Tails: "...!"


    The two exchanged puzzled looks, both thinking of Su Afo''s earlierment, and decided to fly up to see for themselves.


    From behind Zhong Shan, they saw him standing proudly on the mountaintop, and from the other side, a waterfall-like stream of water seemed to be gushing from his body.


    The torrent of water surged like a flood, destroying numerous mountains in its path.


    The two were stunned.


    "Truly a mighty man!" Su Afo muttered instinctively.


    However, they quickly flew closer, relieved to see that it wasn''t what they had initially thought.


    From Zhong Shan''s chest, a white diagram floated in the air, inexplicably gushing out a torrent of heavy floodwater.


    "Is this... Weak Water? The kind that only exists in the Yin Realm?" Princess Nine-Tails eximed in surprise.

 Chapter 910: Slaughter the Trillions to Vent My Hatred!

    <h4>Chapter 910: ughter the Trillions to Vent My Hatred!</h4>


    In the Yin Realm, outside the Reincarnation Pce, within the Ancient Immortal Destruction Formation, Zhong Shan unfurled the Emperor''s Diagram. No matter how much Weak Water fell from the sky, it was instantly absorbed by the Emperor''s Diagram.


    Cold sweat appeared on Qingming Holy Emperor''s forehead. An hour had passed. What kind of artifact was this? How much space was inside it, and what level of treasure was it?


    This was Weak Water, a tyrannical substance that fifty-two Great Celestials hadbored to transport from the Yin Realm. After an hour, even Celestial Artifacts would have beenpletely corroded, yet Zhong Shan''s circr diagram remained unscathed.


    Qingming Holy Emperor had a bad premonition, but he was alreadymitted.


    After an hour, everyone was starting to feel exhausted.


    No, the diagram had to be broken.


    With a wave of his hand, Qingming Holy Emperor summoned a golden longsword.


    He shed down from the sky, the sword transforming into a thousand-zhang-long golden de, vast and mighty.


    But as the de descended, a terrifying suction force emanated from the Emperor''s Diagram. Qingming Holy Emperor''s hand trembled, and the golden longsword was sucked in.


    Qingming Holy Emperor was shocked but not too worried. After all, this was a treasure he had refined with his mind; he could recall it with a thought.


    As he focused on his treasure, the others realized the Emperor''s Diagram was peculiar. If the diagram wasn''t destroyed, Zhong Shan couldn''t be defeated.


    The powerful beings began to draw their weapons, shing at the Emperor''s Diagram. One Celestial Artifact couldn''t handle it? Here were dozens of Celestial Artifacts��let''s see how Zhong Shan would deal with this!


    The terrifying impact targeted the Emperor''s Diagram.


    At this moment, Qingming Holy Emperor suddenly broke out in a sweat, his face filled with anguish, as if trapped in some tragic situation. Seeing numerous Celestial Artifacts striking towards the Emperor''s Diagram, Qingming Holy Emperor''s face changed drastically.


    "Stop! No��!"


    Qingming Holy Emperor shouted, but it was toote. The unleashed artifacts were like water spilled��there was no taking them back.


    In the Yang Realm, on the peak of a massive mountain, Su Afo and Princess Nine-Tails watched in amazement. For an hour, the terrifying flood had toppled mountain after mountain, the destruction as thorough as a fall wind sweeping away leaves, leaving a vast expanse of water.


    "Zhong Shan, what kind of treasure is this? It''s so powerful! It can even spit out ''Weak Water''? And so much of it?" Princess Nine-Tails asked, her eyes gleaming.


    "Isn''t this the same artifact that reflected Sima Qianjun''s divine arrowst time?" Su Afo recognized it immediately.


    "Yes, it seems very mysterious. How did you get it?" Princess Nine-Tails asked excitedly.


    Zhong Shan was speechless. How did he get it?


    "I refined it myself," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    "So powerful? Can you make one for me too? I''ll trade you a Celestial Artifact!" Su Afo immediately shouted.


    This treasure was too miraculous. It was even grander than his Vajra Pestle.


    "I can''t. I can''t make a second one. It was a matter of chance," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    Su Afo was still unwilling to give up. After thinking for a while, he made a decision.


    "I''ll trade you two Celestial Artifacts!"


    "Three?"


    Zhong Shan still shook his head.


    "Four?"


    "Five, that''s my bottom line. Don''t be too greedy!" Su Afo shouted.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    With a deafening roar, a beam of golden light suddenly shot out from the imperial scroll in Zhong Shan''s hand. The light pierced a nearby mountain peak, causing it to explode, and a colossal golden sword, thousands of feet long, firmly embedded itself into the ground.


    Staring at the radiant sword, Su Afo''s words caught in his throat, his eyes widening as he fixated on the gleaming weapon.


    "A supreme artifact?" The Nine-Tailed Princess eximed in astonishment.


    What was this? Both of them disyed puzzled expressions. What kind of treasure was this? It spewed weak water, which was already astonishing, but now it could also produce supreme artifacts? Was this even real?


    They rubbed their eyes in disbelief.


    A treasure that could emit supreme artifacts? Did such a thing exist in the world?


    Su Afo, stunned, looked at Zhong Shan and said, "Five supreme artifacts, and you''re not even greedy!"


    While Su Afo and the Nine-Tailed Princess were still in shock, another burst of multicolored light apanied by a surge of water erupted from the weak water.


    "Whoosh whoosh whoosh...!"


    The mountain peak fell silent, save for the sound of rushing water.


    "Princess, did I just see what I think I saw? Hit me to check!" Su Afo muttered numbly.


    "Smack!" The Nine-Tailed Princess pped him hard, sending him flying.


    "It''s real, this isn''t a dream. Zhong Shan, you''ve struck gold. Is this some kind of treasure basin? It can produce supreme artifacts in quantity? It just spat out twenty-six supreme artifacts. You''ll never have to worry about anything again!" The Nine-Tailed Princess shouted joyfully.


    The people in the living realm were ted, while those opposing Zhong Shan in theherworld could only feel utter despair, as if they were about to vomit blood from frustration.


    What was that round diagram? A bottomless pit?


    Everyone sensed their heart-bound treasures being sucked in, losing all connection to them. How could this be?


    How could they continue to fight?


    The Ancient Immortal Tian Yan Formation? It was now a joke.


    With the protection of the imperial scroll, what was there to fear? Zhong Shan coldly surveyed his surroundings. Fifty-two supreme immortals? Fifty-two supreme immortals hade to kill him, and Zhong Shan wouldn''t let it slide. Since they hade, none of them would leave.


    However, capturing them wouldn''t be easy.


    Seal them? Like how he sealed Luo Xingchen? Such a seal seemed unbearable for these supreme immortals. Once they entered the cycle of reincarnation, they would be ground into dust.


    Dust it would be!


    Zhong Shan''s eyes glinted green, a vast, intimidating aura subtly permeating the hearts of all the powerful beings present.


    At this moment, they all realized they had made a grave mistake. Zhong Shan was not the weakling the Azure Emperor had described; on the contrary, he was immensely powerful.


    They had kicked a steel te. As Zhong Shan''s eyes turned green, waves of soul-stirring terror surged into their minds.


    Escape? How? Once this great formation was deployed, there was no escaping. Unless they all withdrew their power simultaneously, any one person trying to escape would bear the brunt of the power of the other fifty-one supreme immortals, leaving them gravely injured or worse.


    Each powerful being was on the verge of tears. How had they ended up so unlucky?


    All they could do was continuously use the weak water to try and wear down Zhong Shan. What else could they do? Inside this celestial well formation, even ancient immortals couldn''t use their spells. Without ancient immortal artifacts, they would be worn down by the weak water and the supreme artifacts sooner orter.


    But now? Supreme artifacts? All taken by Zhong Shan, and the weak water waspletely ineffective. How could they possibly fight now? If they didn''t act, should they just wait for Zhong Shan to make his move?


    "I refuse to believe this round diagram is a bottomless pit. We''ll exhaust him to death if we have to. If Zhong Shan doesn''t die today, then tomorrow it will be your deaths!" the Azure Emperor shouted.


    Helplessly, everyone continued with what seemed to be an utterly futile and tragic endeavor.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    A thunderous roar erupted from the direction of the Wheel Pce, and a column of ck energy shot into the sky, plunging the already darkened sky intoplete gloom. A massive surge of malevolent energy burst forth, crashing towards the ''Ancient Immortal Tian Yan Formation,'' shattering it instantly.


    "Puff!"


    "Puff!"


    The great formation shattered with a tremendous crash, and all the powerful beings within were severely injured, knocked to the ground by the ck energy and coughing up blood.


    As they emerged from the shattered formation, their first instinct was to flee as quickly as possible.


    Unfortunately, just as they took to the air, a tremendous pressure bore down upon them.


    The powerful pressure forced them back to the ground, and they looked on in horror at the towering ck energy pir in the distance.


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    A deafening roar came from the direction of the Wheel Pce, shaking the heavens. The surrounding space seemed to tremble slightly, leaving the supreme immortals agape in shock. What kind of monster was this?


    A roar that could shake space?


    Zhong Shan retrieved the Emperor''s Scroll, looking astonished towards the distance. This aura was as powerful as the ''Ghost Car'' in the living realm. Had a sealed fiend been released?


    Suddenly, a ck shadow shot out from the Wheel Pce.


    "Boom!"


    The shadownded on a patch of empty ground��it was y Bodhisattva, clutching his chest with blood seeping from the corner of his mouth.


    Who was this person?


    "y Bodhisattva, are you alright?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "He''s too strong. I was injured by the residual force!" y Bodhisattva said, clearly shaken.


    In the distance.


    "Who is that? Who''sing from the direction of the Wheel Pce?" the Azure Emperor frowned and shouted.


    "Is the seal broken? Has he broken the seal?" another emperor eximed in shock.


    "Who is he? Do you know?" the Azure Emperor immediately asked.


    "He...!" The person bit their lip, seemingly afraid to speak.


    "Speak! At this point, what''s there to hide?" the Azure Emperor urged impatiently.


    "He''s called Guo Shifu, a former high-ranking official of the Zhou Dynasty!" the person said with a mix of fear and uncertainty.


    "Zhou Dynasty? The Great Zhou''s King Zhou You?" the Azure Emperor''s eyes widened.


    "I read about it in an ancient text. It''s said that when Guo Shifu was sealed, he swore an oath that when he broke free, he would bathe the Wheel Realm in blood, leaving nothing alive, not even a de of grass, and ughtering billions to vent his anger!" the person exined.


    Bathe the Wheel Realm in blood? Leave nothing alive, not even a de of grass? ughter billions to vent his anger?


    Almost all the powerful beings were stunned by these words. Guo Shifu? A fiend released from his seal?


    At the Wheel Pce, the powerful malevolent energy surged into the sky, enveloping a vast area with an overwhelming pressure.


    Far away in Changjing, Luo Xingchen was admiring the flowers with Chen Xiaoqian when he suddenly frowned and looked towards the direction of the Wheel Pce.


    "Husband, what''s wrong?" Chen Xiaoqian asked in confusion.


    "Wait for me at home!" Luo Xingchen said, disappearing in an instant.


    In another pce in Changjing, Wang Ku was lecturing a group of skeletons when he suddenly fell silent and vanished from the spot.

 Chapter 911: Unrestrained Guo Shifu

    <h4>Chapter 911: Unrestrained Guo Shifu</h4>


    Outside the Wheel Pce, a terrifying aura surged relentlessly.


    The overwhelming presence seemed to press down on the souls of everyone present, rendering them immobile. The aura of a supreme being was vast and boundless.


    Guo Shifu did not restrain his aura. After being sealed for hundreds of thousands of years, the exhration of breaking free was indescribable.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes showed a hint of worry.


    Guo Shifu had once vowed that upon his release, he would bathe the Wheel Realm in blood, leaving not a de of grass, not a single soul alive, ughtering billions to vent his deep-seated hatred.


    Such a vow from an unparalleled powerhouse couldn''t be dismissed with minor favors. y Bodhisattva helped him break free, but even without assistance, Guo Shifu could have escaped. Would a small favor override his vow?


    If this were true, wouldn''t the Great Empress Dynasty face an imminent catastrophe?


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    Guo Shifu let out another long howl. The roar pierced the sky, and the ck energy seemed to scatter in an instant, spreading in all directions. The sky darkened, winds howled, and even the distant stars seemed to flicker in response.


    Under Guo Shifu''s formidable aura, the ck energy around the Wheel Pce waspletely blown away, revealing a vastplex of pces.


    At the center stood the towering Wheel Pce, with roof ridges resembling dragon bones, exuding a dominant aura.


    The Wheel Pce stood at a height of a hundred thousand feet, thergest pce Zhong Shan had ever seen.


    Everyone''s eyes were drawn to the pce, focusing on the figure standing at its pinnacle��a man in a ck robe.


    The man wore a wide ck robe, his long hair flowing behind him. His face was pale as frost, and his eyes emitted a cold, electric re, filled with hatred and profound indifference.


    A look of absolute disdain, as if viewing ants.


    Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed. He had seen this look before. It was the gaze of a sage, one who viewed all living beings with indifference. But Guo Shifu couldn''t be a sage, could he? This look was reserved for those of absolute authority.


    If a mere official of King Zhou You of the Great Zhou had such a gaze, how powerful must King Zhou You have been?


    "Greetings, senior!" The assembled experts respectfully greeted Guo Shifu.


    Guo Shifu nced coldly at them, ignoring their presence, instead looking at the rolling ck clouds above.


    "Boom!"


    With a thunderous crash, a hole was torn in the ck clouds, and a beam of white light shot down, entering the body of a supreme immortal. The immortal''s body initially weakened, then suddenly straightened as a powerful aura emanated from him.


    The immense pressure from the aura blew several nearby individuals away.


    Was this a sage''s descent? Zhong Shan immediately recognized the scene, having witnessed it multiple times before.


    A sage from theherworld? Arriving so quickly!


    "Boom!" Another deafening crash.


    Another beam of white light shot down, entering the body of another supreme immortal. The immortal''s body weakened before standing upright, exuding a powerful presence that forced others to retreat.


    Two sages?


    The spiritual senses of two sages had descended, both focusing on Guo Shifu atop the Wheel Pce.


    Guo Shifu turned to face the two sages.


    Outside the Wheel Pce, the terrifying aura continued to escte.


    The overwhelming presence seemed to press down on everyone''s souls, rendering them immobile. The aura of a supreme being was vast and boundless.


    Guo Shifu did not restrain his aura. After being sealed for hundreds of thousands of years, the exhration of breaking free was indescribable.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes showed a hint of worry.


    Guo Shifu had once vowed that upon his release, he would bathe the Wheel Realm in blood, leaving not a de of grass, not a single soul alive, ughtering billions to vent his deep-seated hatred.


    Such a vow from an unparalleled powerhouse couldn''t be dismissed with minor favors. y Bodhisattva helped him break free, but even without assistance, Guo Shifu could have escaped. Would a small favor override his vow?


    If this were true, wouldn''t the Great Empress Dynasty face an imminent catastrophe?


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    Guo Shifu let out another long howl. The roar pierced the sky, and the ck energy seemed to scatter in an instant, spreading in all directions. The sky darkened, winds howled, and even the distant stars seemed to flicker in response.


    Under Guo Shifu''s formidable aura, the ck energy around the Wheel Pce waspletely blown away, revealing a vastplex of pces.


    At the center stood the towering Wheel Pce, with roof ridges resembling dragon bones, exuding a dominant aura.


    The Wheel Pce stood at a height of a hundred thousand feet, thergest pce Zhong Shan had ever seen.


    Everyone''s eyes were drawn to the pce, focusing on the figure standing at its pinnacle��a man in a ck robe.


    The man wore a wide ck robe, his long hair flowing behind him. His face was pale as frost, and his eyes emitted a cold, electric re, filled with hatred and profound indifference.


    A look of absolute disdain, as if viewing ants.


    Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed. He had seen this look before. It was the gaze of a sage, one who viewed all living beings with indifference. But Guo Shifu couldn''t be a sage, could he? This look was reserved for those of absolute authority.


    If a mere official of King Zhou You of the Great Zhou had such a gaze, how powerful must King Zhou You have been?


    "Greetings, senior!" The assembled experts respectfully greeted Guo Shifu.


    Guo Shifu nced coldly at them, ignoring their presence, instead looking at the rolling ck clouds above.


    "Boom!"


    With a thunderous crash, a hole was torn in the ck clouds, and a beam of white light shot down, entering the body of a supreme immortal. The immortal''s body initially weakened, then suddenly straightened as a powerful aura emanated from him.


    The immense pressure from the aura blew several nearby individuals away.


    Was this a sage''s descent? Zhong Shan immediately recognized the scene, having witnessed it multiple times before.


    A sage from theherworld? Arriving so quickly!


    "Boom!" Another deafening crash.


    Another beam of white light shot down, entering the body of another supreme immortal. The immortal''s body weakened before standing upright, exuding a powerful presence that forced others to retreat.


    Two sages?


    The spiritual senses of two sages had descended, both focusing on Guo Shifu atop the Wheel Pce.


    Guo Shifu turned to face the two sages.


    "So, you two havee to congratte me on breaking my seal?" Guo Shifu said coldly.


    Despite facing sages��the most powerful beings recognized in the world��Guo Shifu showed no respect, his tone brimming with disdain.


    Thetter sage, dressed in red robes, looked at Guo Shifu and said, "From the malevolent aura, I can see your intent. You n to massacre the Wheel Realm?"


    "I, Guo Shifu, have never broken a vow! What I say, I do!" Guo Shifu dered firmly.


    "The heavens value life. We can overlook your breaking the seal, but if you intend to annihte the entire Wheel Realm, we cannot agree. Heaven''s will has already informed us of this ce. You should stop," the red-robed sage said calmly.


    "The heavens value life? Coming from a sage, that sounds ironic. Don''t bother with useless words. Today, I will massacre the Wheel Realm!" Guo Shifu retorted coldly.


    The other sage in blue robes shook his head, saying, "It is not destined. The Wheel Realm cannot be bloodily massacred by you. You won''t seed!"


    "Xiyang Tian!" Guo Shifu shouted sharply.


    Clearly, Xiyang Tian was the name of one of the sages.


    The powerful beings present couldn''t help but feel astonished. Was this real? How could Guo Shifu speak to sages in such a manner? Were the officials of King Zhou You all this arrogant?


    "You want to stop me? Do you even know how you obtained your sage position?" Guo Shifu said coldly.


    The blue-robed sage, Xiyang Tian, frowned slightly.


    "Back then, at the Three Springs, my king killed the sage Miejuehun, establishing the vast Zhou Heaven. Only then was the sage position vacant, which you took. Without my Great Zhou, you wouldn''t be where you are today. Now you want to stop me? Do you want to rekindle the boundless karma with my Great Zhou?" Guo Shifu said coldly.


    The surrounding experts were dumbfounded. Guo Shifu''s king��King Zhou You��had killed a sage? A single person killed a sage? How was that possible? Sages were described as invincible. Could a sage be killed by a non-sage? If true, how powerful was King Zhou You?


    To kill a sage without being one?


    No one believed it, as it defied all their understanding. This was absolutely impossible. Had Guo Shifu gone mad from being sealed?


    Daring to im that King Zhou You killed a sage? What a joke.


    Even Zhong Shan''s heart raced. King Zhou You? Could it be true?


    Xiyang Tian did not deny it, and the scene fell silent.


    In this brief silence, people''s certainty began to waver. Could it be true?


    "King Zhou You, leading the Great Zhou, challenged the heavens with seven sages, altering fate itself! Such audacity is unparalleled in history. It was a path impossible to walk, yet King Zhou You trod it. Even in defeat, he drummed his will to the heavens and the underworld, dering his intent with his drumbeat. The greatest king of all time, without a doubt. But fate cannot be reversed. King Zhou You is history. Do you think you can use a past king to intimidate today''s sages?" Xiyang Tian said, his eyes narrowing.


    The events of King Zhou You were not widely known, but now, with Xiyang Tian''s words, everyone understood. A sage''s words could not be wrong.


    King Zhou You? What kind of madman was he? The Great Zhou? What a formidable Great Zhou!


    This wasn''t all. By recounting King Zhou You''s achievements, Xiyang Tian indirectly confirmed one thing. King Zhou You truly killed a sage.


    Of course, many still didn''t know who King Zhou You was, but they knew one thing: King Zhou You was not a sage.


    Because, in the mythos of dynasties, there was a peculiar rule: the ruler of a dynasty could not be a sage. This ancient legend stated that no ruler could attain sagehood unless they relinquished their throne and imperial status once their cultivation reached its peak.


    King Zhou You was not a sage, yet he killed a sage. This revtion felt like an iprehensible celestial decree to everyone, but they had to believe it because Sage Xiyang Tian confirmed it.


    Guo Shifu looked deeply at Xiyang Tian and said coldly, "Though the king was defeated, the pride of Great Zhou will never perish. I am proud to be an official of Great Zhou, and I will not tarnish the king''s name. I may not be able to y a sage like him, but a mere wisp of a sage''s divine consciousness cannot threaten me."


    "You cannot seed; it is destined. Even the powerful King Zhou You couldn''t alter fate, and neither can you!" Xiyang Tian responded calmly.


    "Xiyang Tian, do you still intend to stop me?" Guo Shifu said coldly.


    Xiyang Tian nced at the other sage and shook his head, "I owe my sagehood to Great Zhou, so today I am repaying a karmic debt. Though it''s a bitter debt, I have no further ties with Great Zhou. It is destined; even without me, you cannot change it."


    As he spoke, Xiyang Tian transformed into a beam of white light and shot into the sky, leaving the immobilized immortal slowly copsing to the ground.


    Xiyang Tian left? Did he tacitly approve of Guo Shifu''s actions?


    Everyone was shocked. The so-called heavenly virtue of cherishing life was a lie. These sages were utterly indifferent to the lives of the masses. Their fear of Guo Shifu deepened.


    Forcing a sage to retreat��how terrifying must Guo Shifu be? If he truly massacred the Wheel Realm, who could stop him?


    Fortunately, there was still the red-robed sage.


    The red-robed sage had remained silent, watching everything with a calm demeanor. He seemed to be the protector for all present.


    Guo Shifu coldly looked at the red-robed sage, who returned his gaze emotionlessly.


    "Xiyang Tian? I am not as easygoing as he is!" the red-robed sage said ndly.


    "Another lecture about destiny?" Guo Shifu remarked.


    "Great Zhou is history. King Zhou You''s reckless defiance deserved heavenly retribution. As for you, a mere remnant official of Great Zhou, how dare you speak so presumptuously before me? There are many in this world who can seal you. A mere immortal, daring to challenge destiny? Utter foolishness!" the red-robed sage said indifferently.


    "Hahaha! When my king defied the heavens, where were you? Talking about destiny? I dare to challenge destiny. What about you? Hahaha...!" Guo Shifuughed loudly.


    Guo Shifu''s defiance against the sage stemmed partly from his genuine audacity and partly from his need to vent the hatred umted over hundreds of thousands of years of imprisonment.


    "Destiny is inexorable. Since you are obstinate, I will act on heaven''s behalf to exterminate the demon!" the red-robed sage said calmly.


    "Heaven''s extermination? Hmph! If your true form were here, I wouldn''t dare confront you. But with only a wisp of divine consciousness, you think you can y the role of heaven''s executor?" Guo Shifu retorted coldly.


    As he spoke, ck energy surged around Guo Shifu, emanating a vast and terrifying aura that made the surrounding pces tremble.


    The ground quaked, and the sky trembled. A great battle was about to erupt!


    Guo Shifu against a sage?

 Chapter 912: Three Thousand Heavenly Paths

    <h4>Chapter 912: Three Thousand Heavenly Paths</h4>


    Around Guo Shifu, the ck and the brilliant lights intertwined, and Zhong Shan vaguely saw a beam of light, a purple pir reaching from earth to sky. Upon seeing this beam, only one word echoed in Zhong Shan''s mind:


    Vast!


    It was an absolutely breathtaking sight. The purple pir seemed to envelop Guo Shifu alone, yet at the same time, it appeared to epass all directions. Numerousws and rules intertwined like a spider''s web around it.


    This scene was indescribable, yet this was the exact feeling Zhong Shan experienced.


    Faced with this purple pir, Zhong Shan suddenly felt a sense of reverence. He was shocked; even in the presence of a sage, he had never felt this way.


    What exactly was the purple pir around Guo Shifu?


    Not only Guo Shifu, but also a red-robed sage in the distance was suddenly enveloped by a red pir of light, which also shot from earth to sky. It was a heart-stopping sight, but in an instant, the light disappeared.


    Suddenly, the purple pir and the red pir reappeared, shing together in an explosive collision. Then, both Guo Shifu and the red-robed sage vanished.


    Did Guo Shifu really dare to fight a sage? Everyone was dumbfounded.


    The two disappeared, and if not for the lingering oppressive aura, everyone would have thought they had left.


    Were the two peerless experts still here?


    Everyone wanted to retreat, but the oppression seemed to confine them all, making it hard to breathe. It felt as though any resistance would result in being simultaneously attacked by both Guo Shifu and the sage.


    No one moved.


    "Hmph!"


    A shadow shed, and suddenly, a figure appeared beside Zhong Shan.


    Da Xi Holy Court, Wang Ku!


    "Holy King," Wang Ku respectfully greeted.


    Zhong Shan nced at Wang Ku in surprise.


    "I happened to be nearby and sensed a strong presence, so I came. Who is it?" Wang Ku asked.


    "Guo Shifu, have you heard of him?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "No, I have never heard of him," Wang Ku shook his head.


    "A man named Guo Shifu is currently battling a sage''s divine sense," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Holy King, should we leave immediately? I can take everyone away," Wang Ku said solemnly.


    A Great Immortal? Despite being a Great Immortal, Wang Ku seemedpletely unaffected at this moment.


    Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "We can''t leave, nor should we," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Huh?" Wang Ku was puzzled.


    "The situationpels us. If the sage wins, there''s no need to leave. If Guo Shifu wins, leaving would be useless," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan was at the center of everyone''s attention.


    The other Great Immortals suddenly noticed Wang Ku and recognized him at once. "Isn''t he themander of Da Xi''s legion? Why is he unaffected by this terrifying pressure?"


    Seeing Wang Ku''sposure, the other experts were astounded.


    Soon, another sh of light appeared in the distance, and a blue light suddenlynded in front of Zhong Shan.


    "Luo Xingchen!" Qing Ming Shengshang eximed.


    Not only Qing Ming Shengshang, but almost everyone was shocked. "Can someone tell me what''s going on? Wasn''t Luo Xingchen dead? He was killed right here by Zhong Shan himself!"


    How did he suddenly appear again?


    Today''s events had overturned everyone''s understanding. Zhong Shan had blocked the Ancient Immortal Destruction Array, the fierce demon Guo Shifu had emerged, a sage had descended, the mystery of the former Great Zhou had resurfaced, Guo Shifu was fighting a sage, and now, Luo Xingchen, who was supposed to be dead, was alive again?


    "Holy King!" Luo Xingchen respectfully greeted.


    Seeing this, almost everyone felt an urge to curse aloud, feeling utterly confused. Luo Xingchen, the once greatest expert of the Wheel Domain, known for his mastery of time, was now bowing to Zhong Shan? Had he abandoned his Time Dojo to be Zhong Shan''s subordinate?


    Is this some kind of joke?


    Is the world changing too fast, or are we just unable to keep up with the times?


    The Great Immortals exchanged looks, each seeing the same conflicted expressions on the others'' faces. Since Zhong Shan blocked the Ancient Immortal Destruction Array, some had realized that this was destined to end in failure. However, they had never expected such aplete defeat.


    Luo Xingchen had actually pledged allegiance to the Da Xi Holy Court?


    "I was just in Changjing and suddenly sensed a surge of malice from the direction of the Wheel Hall. Knowing the Holy King was here, I dared not dy and came immediately. What is this ce?" Luo Xingchen frowned.


    Mud Bodhisattva, standing nearby, recounted the recent events to Luo Xingchen.


    "A battle of the Heavenly Dao!" Luo Xingchen raised an eyebrow.


    "A battle of the Heavenly Dao?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, the purple pir and the red pir you saw earlier should be two Heavenly Daos. It''smon for sages to merge with the Heavenly Dao, but I didn''t expect Guo Shifu to do it too. He is a Forefather Immortal, the closest realm to a sage!" Luo Xingchen said solemnly.


    "Can Forefather Immortals merge with the Heavenly Dao?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "No, not all Forefather Immortals can. You must have heard of the Three Thousand Heavenly Daos, three thousand different Heavenly Daos that transcend allws," Luo Xingchen exined.


    "Correct. The Heavenly Dao gives birth to endlessws, and thews give birth to rules," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "The eternal constant in this world is the Heavenly Dao, the Three Thousand Heavenly Daos, existing everywhere, omnipresent. Our ancient immortals can only perceive the shadows of the Heavenly Dao throughws. By advancing to Forefather Immortal, one can see the Heavenly Dao," Luo Xingchen exined. "The Heavenly Dao is formless and invisible, yet it can be seen?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Forefather Immortals can see it and use it. The highest level of Forefather Immortals can merge with the Heavenly Dao. Although the merging is not perfect, they possess the power to break the heavens," Luo Xingchen said.


    Zhong Shan understood that the so-called power to break the heavens meant the ability to tear open the void. Forefather Immortals, the origin of immortals, the pinnacle of immortality!


    "The Wu Tribe has Forefather Shamans, cultivators have Forefather Immortals, Buddhists have Forefather Buddhas. Each race considers ''Forefather'' as the ultimate. Above the Forefather level are the sages of heaven and earth, the Yang Nine and Yin Six," Luo Xingchen exined.


    "Guo Shifu and the sage''s divine sense are currently engaged in a battle of the Heavenly Dao. Hence, we cannot see their forms, but they are here, omnipresent!" Luo Xingchen said solemnly.


    As Luo Xingchen spoke, the void suddenly trembled. The terrifying spatial vibrations caused a ck dot to appear in the distance, a ck hole in the void.


    In the blink of an eye, nearly ten thousand ck holes appeared in that ck dot.


    Guo Shifu was battling a sage.


    Almost everyone felt an immediate urge to retreat.


    "Holy King? Shall we leave?" Luo Xingchen asked worriedly.


    "Boom!"


    The void trembled once more, and in the distance, countless mountains were suddenly crushed into powder. Only the Wheel Hall remained strangely intact, as if a faint ck aura had suddenly emerged to shield it from the spatial tremors.


    "Roar!" Guo Shifu let out a wild roar.


    A blood-soaked corpse suddenly descended from the sky.


    "Trying to fight me with a Great Immortal''s body? Come back with an Ancient Immortal''s! Hahaha!" Guo Shifuughed maniacally.


    A beam of white light shot up into the sky, and the sage retreated in defeat.


    "Guo Shifu, the Great Zhou is gone. Your arrogance will lead to an early death. Next time we meet will be your end!" The departing white light left a cold message.


    "Hmph!" Guo Shifu snorted coldly.


    "Defeated?"


    Almost no one could ept this fact. Defeated? Impossible. How could a sage be defeated? Sages are invincible!


    Everyone''s minds were roaring with disbelief.


    But the body that the sage had upied indeedy fallen on the ground. Defeated, the sage had left!


    What would the powerful Guo Shifu do next?


    Guo Shifu gazed coldly in the direction the sage had left for a long time.


    The destruction of the Great Zhou was an eternal pain in his heart. The mighty Great Zhou was gone just like that? Even though he could now only bully a sage''s divine sense, if the Great Zhou were still around, Guo Shifu would dare to confront any sage in person.


    "Roar!"


    Unable to vent his frustration, Guo Shifu roared towards the sky, causing the heavens to tremble and the weather to change.


    In the distance, some of Da Xi''s lower-level soldiers had blood seeping from their ears, with some even fainting on the spot.


    "Holy King, what should we do?" Luo Xingchen asked worriedly.


    Zhong Shan''s eyelids twitched. He possessed the Emperor''s Diagram, which allowedmunication between the yin and yang realms. With Mud Bodhisattva and others here, Zhong Shan could definitely save them and take them to the yang realm in a short time. But what about Da Xi? Should he abandon Da Xi Holy Court in the underworld?


    Guo Shifu''s resolve was unyielding, and he would surely fulfill his vow. The bloodbath in the Wheel Domain would indeed start here, as Guo Shifu''s cold gaze suddenly fell upon Zhong Shan and his group, signaling the beginning of the massacre.


    Wherever Guo Shifu''s gaze fell, everyone felt a wave of fear.


    He had driven away a sage; what chance did these Great Immortals stand against him?


    The terrifying Guo Shifu��once he decided to kill, who could escape?


    Guo Shifu surveyed the area, his eyes narrowing as he looked in the direction of Yan Chongzhi, noticing the golden phoenix.


    "A phoenix? And a golden one at that? You, as a noble golden phoenix, actually stoop to pulling a carriage? Whose carriage is this?" Guo Shifu''s voice thundered coldly.


    His voice, like a heavenly thunderp, left everyone dizzy.


    "It is mine!" Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    Almost all the Great Immortals were stunned. Was Zhong Shan courting death? Moreover, everyone suddenly realized that Guo Shifu seemed to be very protective of the phoenix race.


    "Is the phoenix your national beast?" Guo Shifu asked coldly.


    "No," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "If not, then you must have forced the phoenix to pull your carriage. You deserve death!" Guo Shifu''s voice was icy.


    "No, senior, we willingly serve the Holy King. He did not force us!" A phoenix in the distance immediately responded anxiously.


    The phoenix pped its wings and flew straight towards them, seemingly unaffected by Guo Shifu''s eerie aura.


    "Whoosh!" In a sh, Guo Shifu was in front of them.


    Da Xi''s ministers quickly surrounded Zhong Shan protectively.


    "As a phoenix, you willingly pull a carriage? Since when have phoenixes be so lowly?" Guo Shifu''s eyes turned cold.


    But just as Guo Shifu''s eyes turned cold and he prepared to strike, his expression suddenly changed.


    "The king''s aura?" Guo Shifu stared at Zhong Shan in surprise.


    "You have it too?" Guo Shifu looked at Mud Bodhisattva in amazement.


    "You too? The king''s aura? The king?" Guo Shifu turned to look at the phoenix that had approached.

 Chapter 913: The Rebirth of King Zhou You

    <h4>Chapter 913: The Rebirth of King Zhou You</h4>


    "You too? The king''s aura? The king?" Guo Shifu looked towards the nearby phoenix.


    The king''s aura?


    As Guo Shifu expressed his surprise, Zhong Shan and the others were also shocked. The only king Guo Shifu could refer to was the long-dead King Zhou You. How could they possess the aura of King Zhou You?


    Guo Shifu seemed puzzled, then his eyes widened, and he demanded, "Why do you have the king''s aura?"


    As he spoke, Guo Shifu''s eyes suddenly turned purple, and waves of light emanated from them, directly striking the phoenix.


    Around the phoenix, numerous waves of light emerged, then streaks of light shed by, as if one could see the past through these light streams.


    The light streams paused!


    "Nothing? You''ve received the blessings of heaven and earth? All traces of the past have been erased?" Guo Shifu''s eyebrows furrowed.


    Zhong Shan stared intently at Guo Shifu, his mind racing. Suddenly, a possibility urred to him. The phoenix? It seemed that the phoenix was once the national beast of the Great Zhou?


    "The king you speak of, is it King Zhou You of the Great Zhou?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Exactly! The king''s aura, you are tainted with the king''s aura, which means you have something that belonged to the king. How dare you touch the king''s belongings?" Guo Shifu''s eyes widened, and a massive aura erupted from him.


    Just this aura alone felt as if it could crush a person.


    Wang Ku and Luo Xingchen immediately stepped in front of Zhong Shan, while in the distance, other experts, seeing Zhong Shan being oppressed by Guo Shifu, felt a moment of satisfaction. Although they knew they were also in trouble, seeing Zhong Shan suffer first was a delight, wasn''t it?


    Moreover, as Guo Shifu directed his anger at Zhong Shan, the pressure on the other Great Immortals lessened significantly.


    Seeing the opportunity to escape, the other experts began to flee.


    "Luo Xingchen, Wang Ku, stop all the Great Immortals from escaping. Anyone who tries to flee, kill them!" Zhong Shan ordered even while under pressure.


    "But, Holy King, this...!" Luo Xingchen was puzzled. Guo Shifu clearly intended to kill, and yet the Holy King wanted to capture these Great Immortals?


    "Guo Shifu won''t kill me. On the contrary, he will thank me!" Zhong Shan said confidently.


    Perhaps this confidence affected Guo Shifu, making him hesitate. Desecrating the king''s belongings, how could he be thanked? However, Guo Shifu, having held a high position in the Great Zhou, wasn''t rash enough to immediately kill Zhong Shan and his group.


    After all, killing them would be as easy as flipping his hand for Guo Shifu.


    "You want me to thank you?" Guo Shifu sneered, focusing his attention on Zhong Shan.


    "You will thank me!" Zhong Shan said under the pressure.


    Guo Shifu''s eyebrows furrowed slightly. How could this Celestial Immortal withstand his oppressive aura?


    "In this world, I will thank no one. I hate this heaven, I hate this earth. My remaining life is filled with hatred. Do not think I will let you go. This time, no one in the Wheel Domain will escape!" Guo Shifu said coldly.


    "King Zhou You, also known as Ji Gongni?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "How dare you speak the king''s name so casually? Even in death, you cannot!" Guo Shifu rebuked.


    As he spoke, Guo Shifu reached out his hand, ready to strike Zhong Shan.


    "But what if he isn''t dead?" Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    Silence!


    The surroundings suddenly fell into a profound stillness.


    Guo Shifu''s hand froze in mid-air, and Mud Bodhisattva nced at Zhong Shan in surprise. The escaping Great Immortals also paused.


    It was an eerie scene as all eyes turned to Zhong Shan.


    "What did you say?" Guo Shifu asked in disbelief.


    "I didn''t say anything," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head with a faint smile.


    But this expression on Zhong Shan''s face seemed to further affirm the possibility that King Zhou You was still alive.


    How could it be? Even sages had died, so how could King Zhou You still be alive? It was impossible.


    "Whoosh!" Guo Shifu waved his hand.


    Zhong Shan suddenly found himself in a strange environment. The sky was gloomy, filled with a terrifying malevolence, with numerous auras of resentment swirling around, manifesting Guo Shifu''s anger.


    "This is my ''world''. Speak!" Guo Shifu didn''t believe Zhong Shan, but he desperately hoped what Zhong Shan said was true. Especially Zhong Shan''s earlier statement, "But what if he isn''t dead?" had made Guo Shifu''s heart, as solid as a rock, beat wildly.


    The person before him knew something he didn''t.


    "Allow me to introduce myself, I am Zhong Shan, the ruler of the Da Xi Holy Court," Zhong Shan said.


    "I''m not interested in that. Tell me what happened with the king!" Guo Shifu said impatiently.


    "King Zhou You? Back then, King Zhou You coborated with the Seven Sages to alter fate. He was a man of great talent and vision. Do you think he would be so easily condemned to eternal damnation? Although he did not fully achieve his goal in altering fate, I believe he managed to change it a bit!" Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    Why was Zhong Shan so certain? Because even though Lady N��wa had fallen, she had also altered fate, especially for the fox tribe. King Zhou You yed a major role in that; how could he not have aplished anything?


    "What do you mean?" Guo Shifu asked in a deep voice.


    "ording to normal fate, those who defied heavenly authority should all be dead. The Seven Sages perished, so how are you, not even a sage, still alive?" Zhong Shan said seriously.


    Guo Shifu''s eyebrows furrowed.


    "I saw the king you speak of! Just a few hundred years ago!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Impossible! I saw with my own eyes that the king was utterly annihted!" Guo Shifu''s expression turned frantic.


    "Whoosh!"


    Before Zhong Shan could speak further, they both returned to the previous world, outside the Wheel Hall.


    "Holy King!" The others quickly surrounded him.


    "Capture all the Great Immortals, quickly!" Zhong Shan ordered again.


    "Yes!" Luo Xingchen and Wang Ku responded immediately.


    At this moment, Guo Shifu suddenly extended his right hand, using his index and middle fingers to touch his forehead lightly. A purple light shot into his fingertips, and then his fingers pointed to the sky, sending a purple ripple outward, slow at first but quickly speeding up.


    "A divine sense search covering heaven and earth!" Mud Bodhisattva eximed in astonishment.


    Zhong Shan also showed a strange expression. Was this for real? Guo Shifu was going to such extremes?


    A divine sense search of this magnitude had only been performed by thest patriarch of the Tian family, Tian Shenzi, but that was limited to a small world. This...?


    Zhong Shan was filled with amazement. The Great Zhou truly was extraordinary.


    After a stick of incense''s time, Guo Shifu''s face turned pale from the exertion.


    An hourter, his face was deathly white, indicating the expanding scope of his search.


    Five hourster, Guo Shifu''s face lit up with joy.


    "The Great Zhou beacon, rekindled��our king is truly alive!" Tears of excitement flowed from Guo Shifu''s pale face.


    "Whoosh!" Guo Shifu and Zhong Shan disappeared once again.


    They returned to Guo Shifu''s ''world'', where Guo Shifu''s face was filled with indescribable joy.


    "You know where the king is? You really know?" Guo Shifu asked excitedly.


    "Yes, if I''m not mistaken, King Zhou You, Ji Gongni, I have indeed seen him," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Where is the king? Has the Great Zhou reappeared?" Guo Shifu''s excitement was palpable, and the malevolence in the world seemed to dissipate significantly.


    "The former Ji Gongni is dead. He now goes by the name ''Nie Fancheng''," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Nie... The king changed his name?" Guo Shifu was slightly taken aback.


    "Nie Fancheng. I investigated for a while. The surname Nie didn''t exist in the Small Thousand World, nor in the Great Thousand World, as people seemed to avoid the name Ji Gongni. No one dared to take the surname Nie, except for Nie Fancheng. He should be Ji Gongni, annihted in body and soul, and reborn in the mortal world as Nie Fancheng! The former Great Zhou, now the Great Li, Nie Fancheng has returned!" Zhong Shan said with a deep breath.


    "Great Li? Li? Yes, the king once mentioned this!" Guo Shifu said, his fists trembling with emotion.


    "You were sealed, I don''t know the exact circumstances, but I can guess a bit. When King Zhou You was annihted, the world''s heroes attacked the Great Zhou''s territories, and naturally, you were the best target for them to seize heavenly merits. But why were you only sealed?" Zhong Shan said.


    This was Zhong Shan''s deliberate guidance, leading Guo Shifu to follow his line of thinking.


    Sure enough, Guo Shifu''s brows furrowed as he realized Zhong Shan''s intentional guidance. But the conclusion was too tempting, making it hard for Guo Shifu to resist.


    "Was it the king who had me sealed? Did the king have me sealed to protect me, waiting for his return?" Guo Shifu trembled slightly.


    "Indeed, and Nie Fancheng''s Great Li is in the same Small Thousand World as me, and this Small Thousand World is within the Wheel Domain, in the yang realm!" Zhong Shan said.


    Guo Shifu''s mood seemed to lighten instantly.


    "What is your rtionship with the king?" Guo Shifu asked after thinking for a moment.


    After all, being in the same Small Thousand World could also mean they were enemies.


    "My queen is a princess of the Great Li. What do you think my rtionship with Nie Fancheng is?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Uh?" Guo Shifu was taken aback.


    "I apologize for any offense earlier," Guo Shifu said solemnly.


    "It''s human nature. It''s just that my Da Xi Holy Court is situated in this Wheel Domain, and your earlier vow really scared me!" Zhong Shan said, taking the opportunity to express his concerns.


    "Hahaha, a vow? If the king had me sealed, what do I have to hate anymore? What vow? What I want most now is to return to the king''s side!" Guo Shifu said heartily.


    Zhong Shan nodded with a smile.


    "Do you know where my king is?" Guo Shifu asked immediately.


    "The reappearance of the Great Li, what do you think?" Zhong Shan said.


    "The Phoenix Domain!" Guo Shifu guessed instantly.


    Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Many thanks for your guidance. I''ll repay you in the future!" Guo Shifu said, showing his gratitude.


    "No need for future repayment. There''s just one thing I need your help with!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Oh?" Guo Shifu was surprised. Didn''t Zhong Shan know he was in a hurry to leave?


    "I need to record some jade slips and ask you to deliver them to Princess Ling''er of the Great Li. I will go to the Great Li in the future. Before that, I hope you can take care of Princess Ling''er," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Is that all?" Guo Shifu realized he had misunderstood and smiled in relief.


    "That''s all!"


    "Alright!"

 Chapter 914: The Withered Wolf

    <h4>Chapter 914: The Withered Wolf</h4>


    Guo Shifu left, departing with such ease and suddenness that Yan Chongzhi and the others were left in stunned silence.


    Guo Shifu had vowed to bathe the Wheel Domain in blood, ughtering billions to vent his hatred. His immense spirit, unwavering resolve, and terrifying aura seemed unstoppable. No one thought it could be reversed.


    The reality was indeed as such. Two sages came, though merely their divine senses, but still sages nheless. One was driven away by Guo Shifu, and the other was defeated. Such an irreparable show of strength left even sages helpless.


    But what was happening now?


    "Make sure to deliver this to her," were Zhong Shan''s final words.


    "Rest assured, rest assured!" Guo Shifu''s demeanor had suddenly turned exceptionally amicable.


    This scene bewildered countless experts. Was this the same Guo Shifu, who had been filled with malevolence, ready to kill gods and Buddhas alike?


    Yan Chongzhi was particrly perplexed. The Holy King''s tongue was indeed the sharpest weapon in the world, surpassing any magical artifact. Even the unstoppable Guo Shifu, who sages couldn''t handle, was now seemingly pacified by Zhong Shan, behaving like an old friend, and even agreeing to deliver messages for him.


    Yan Chongzhi couldn''t think of any prior rtionship between Zhong Shan and Guo Shifu, so he concluded that Zhong Shan must have tricked Guo Shifu. Zhong Shan''s image grew ever more divine in the eyes of Da Xi''s soldiers.


    Guo Shifu departed, and the Great Immortals were sessively captured by Luo Xingchen and Wang Ku.


    Escape? One Great Immortal tried to flee, but Luo Xingchen shot an arrow, instantly deterring many others from attempting escape.


    As everyone returned, they saw Guo Shifu delivering a message for Zhong Shan, leaving them speechless.


    No one asked questions; no one had the right to.


    "Holy King, one Great Immortal was shot down, and the rest have been captured! Their powers have been sealed," Luo Xingchen reported immediately.


    This capture was primarily due to Luo Xingchen''s efforts.


    "Good. Yan Chongzhi!" Zhong Shan called.


    "Present!" Yan Chongzhi promptly responded, having just arrived.


    "Escort these people back to Changjing!" Zhong Shan ordered sternly.


    "Yes, sir!"


    Turning, Zhong Shan looked towards the Wheel Hall, its carved railings and painted pirs, endless pces, exuding grandeur, like the former capital of a holy court. To the east of the Wheel Hall, in the distance, a ce filled with ck auray��the legendary Land of Five Impurities.


    "Mud Bodhisattva, Guo Shifu has broken the seal, and the malevolent aura outside the Wheel Hall has dissipated. Can we now open the Wheel Hall?" Zhong Shan asked gravely.


    "Not yet," Mud Bodhisattva shook his head.


    "Hmm?" Zhong Shan looked puzzled.


    "The Wheel Hall is extremelyplex, with many hidden chambers. I can only open this part. The true main hall is not here," Mud Bodhisattva exined.


    Zhong Shan''s frown deepened. What was the true origin of this Wheel Hall? Why so many mysteries?


    "But I can manipte some of the internal feng shui formations to cover the Wheel Hall," Mud Bodhisattva offered.


    "Proceed," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, sir!"


    Changjing, Zhong Shan''s study.


    "I now leave these fifty Great Immortals in your hands," Zhong Shan said to Yi Yan.


    "Rest assured, Holy King. With them, it won''t be difficult to gain control of half of the Sixteen Heavenly Courts, if not all," Yi Yan assured.


    "Xiao Wang, for now, join the campaign against the Sixteen Heavenly Courts. With you two strategizing together, the gains should be greater," Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes, but Holy King, I''m more concerned about the south. In the southern Wheel Domain, Wang Jingwen has already taken three more Heavenly Courts. His momentum in conquering the world is too fast. If we don''t pay attention now, once he gains enough power, he could rival our court," Xiao Wang immediately expressed his concern.


    "Wang Jingwen? I have my ns for him. You just need to observe the situation''s development. Do not act for now; I have arrangements," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Understood!" Everyone responded immediately.


    "How is Xiang Xiang doing now?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "In the northern Wheel Domain, Emperor Xiang Xiang has already subdued thirty percent of the wolf n. The momentum is strong," Yi Yan smiled.


    In the northern Wheel Domain, within a magnificent pce.


    The Third Prince of the Heavenly Bestowment Mansion, which should be in the southern Wuxiang Holy Court, was mysteriously in the north.


    "Third Prince, leaving like this, won''t it cause problems?" an official worriedly asked.


    "With Wang Jingwen''s capabilities, what is there to worry about? He''s already conquered eight Heavenly Courts. With this momentum, it''s a blessing for the Wuxiang Holy Court!" the Third Prince smiled.


    "But, you can''t hand over the military tokenspletely! What if...?" the official worried.


    "There is no ''what if''. With the person sent by the Holy King, what is there to worry about? He won''t betray the Wuxiang Holy Court," the Third Prince stated.


    "No, my concern is not about betrayal."


    "Then what is it?"


    "I''m worried that his achievements will be too great!"


    Too great? The Third Prince raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, the Holy King appointed you to oversee things here, not Wang Jingwen. If his achievements overshadow yours, when the Holy King judges, he might think you... you are..." The official hesitated to continue.


    "What might the Holy King think of me?" the Third Prince frowned.


    "Ipetent," the official whispered.


    Ipetent? The Third Prince''s pupils contracted.


    "Third Prince, we should return to the Heavenly Bestowment Mansion. This way, no matter how great Wang Jingwen''s achievements are, they will be credited to you," the official suggested.


    The Third Prince thought for a moment, then shook his head, "Let''s wait a bit longer."


    "Wait for what? Why did youe to the north?" the official didn''t understand.


    At that moment, a figure flew into the hall.


    "Reporting to the Third Prince, we found it! In the Withered Sea Abyss!" the person reported excitedly.


    "Good, set off immediately!" The Third Prince was slightly excited.


    Everyone followed closely, flying into the sky.


    "Third Prince, what is this about?" the official, who had been questioning Wang Jingwen, asked in confusion.


    "This is my goal for this trip, Emperor Xiang Xiang!" the Third Prince said solemnly.


    "Emperor Xiang Xiang?"


    "Yes, I want this Emperor Xiang Xiang, the Wolf Ancestor reborn, the Supreme of the Wolf n," the Third Prince said seriously.


    "But, but Emperor Xiang Xiang belongs to Da Xi!"


    "She will be mine, won''t she? Hahaha!"


    In the Withered Sea Abyss, an extremely dark environment located in the northern part of the Wheel Domain, Emperor Xiang Xiang stood atop a mountain peak with over a hundred distinctive-looking wolves, gazing down at the destendscape.


    Heavy clouds covered the sky, with intermittent shes of lightning streaking through, creating an oppressive atmosphere.


    "So many dark thunders, this ce truly is a site of malevolent energy," Emperor Xiang Xiang frowned.


    Behind her, a group of wolves stood respectfully. One of them stepped forward, frowning, "Supreme, those inside are Withered Wood Wolves. They don''t seem to be true wolf n members."


    "I don''t care. Who told them to call themselves wolves? Using the name of the wolf n means they must fulfill the wolf n''s mission!" Emperor Xiang Xiang dered.


    The hundred wolves behind her were speechless. Fine, since the Supreme said so, it looked like the Withered Wood Wolves were in for some bad luck. Who told them to name themselves after the wolf n?


    "All wolf n members, listen up. Now..." A gleam of battle intent shed in Emperor Xiang Xiang''s eyes.


    "Wait, Emperor Xiang Xiang!" suddenly interrupted by the old man, Jiu Laotou, standing beside her.


    "What is it?" Emperor Xiang Xiang frowned.


    "I sense a dangerous aura approaching. It''s best to leave here immediately," Jiu Laotou said worriedly.


    "Every time you say that, although it''s been risky, haven''t I made it through each time? My grandfather grew stronger through battles of life and death. Without danger, there''s no progress!" Emperor Xiang Xiang eximed.


    "But this time is different, truly different!" Jiu Laotou insisted.


    "All wolf n members, follow me into the Withered Sea Abyss!" Ignoring Jiu Laotou, Emperor Xiang Xiangmanded.


    "Roar!" The pack of wolves howled in unison.


    Leading the pack, Emperor Xiang Xiang charged into the Withered Sea Abyss.


    Jiu Laotou watched in dismay, then smiled bitterly, "This time, it really is different."


    "What should we do now, sir?" asked one of the three guards behind Jiu Laotou.


    "You three, take different paths and head to the nearest Da Xi outpost. Send word to Changjing, saying that Emperor Xiang Xiang is in danger and needs immediate assistance!" Jiu Laotou ordered.


    "Yes, sir!" The three immediately responded.


    As they left, Jiu Laotou could only follow the wolf pack from a distance, flying into the abyss.


    The Withered Sea Abyss was once a great sea but had dried up, leaving behind a swamp heavy with malevolent energy. The dense yin energy made the ce extremely eerie, giving birth to numerous ghosts.


    However, the Withered Sea Abyss was most famous not for its ghosts but for a peculiar species that lived there in groups.


    The Withered Wood Wolves!


    This species was very strange. They looked like tree spirits but could reproduce. They appeared as wrinkled old trees with wolf faces protruding eerily from their trunks. Despite being called wolves, they were not wolves at all.


    This was why one of the wolf n members had advised Emperor Xiang Xiang not to venture there. However, the rumors said that the Withered Wood Wolves were not very powerful, so the wolf n members let their Supreme do as she wished, hoping that once she saw the hideous appearance of the Withered Wood Wolves, she would abandon her initial n.


    It didn''t take long before the group saw a vast forest ahead. The shortest trees were at least a thousand zhang tall, looking incredibly majestic.


    A vast expanse of trees, appearing grand and imposing.


    "Supreme, these are all Withered Wood Wolves!" a wolf n member pointed to the forest ahead.


    Emperor Xiang Xiang was slightly stunned, "Are there really wolves this ugly in the world?"

 Chapter 915: Mating Season

    <h4>Chapter 915: Mating Season</h4>


    Emperor Xiang Xiang and her followers hovered in mid-air, looking at the vast forest ahead, which was, in fact, made up entirely of Withered Wood Wolves.


    "Are there really wolves this ugly in the world?" Xiang Xiang frowned.


    The trees before her were over a thousand zhang tall, resembling dried and wrinkled skin, like that of a tree ravaged by insects. Nobody would find these trees attractive.


    On these trees, eerie wolf faces protruded from the bark, making them look exceptionally strange.


    Were they wolves or trees? Whatever they were, they were undoubtedly hideous.


    Despite the arrival of Emperor Xiang Xiang and over a hundred wolf n members, the Withered Wood Wolves remained motionless, as if unaware of the intruders.


    Beyond these trees, Xiang Xiang could see the center, shrouded in ck mist and surrounded by countless Withered Wood Wolves. Within the ck mist, there was a rustling sound, and glimpses of tendrils could be seen.


    A powerful aura emanated from the ck mist, suggesting the presence of a formidable being within.


    As Xiang Xiang and her wolves advanced, the Withered Wood Wolves suddenly moved, whipping out long tendrils like whips.


    One tendril was manageable, but hundreds, thousands, or even millions of them made the sky appear filled with whip-like tendrils, looking overwhelmingly powerful.


    "Stop!" one of the Withered Wood Wolves suddenly spoke.


    The voice came from the wolf face on the tree.


    "I want to see your leader!" Xiang Xiang demanded.


    "Stop!" the Withered Wood Wolf repeated.


    It seemed the intelligence of the Withered Wood Wolves was not very high, as they only knew how to block intruders.


    What was inside? Xiang Xiang''s curiosity was piqued.


    In Changjing, Zhong Shan''s study.


    Zhong Shan was discussing state affairs with Yi Yan and others when a guard rushed in.


    Seeing this guard, Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow. His study was not a ce anyone could enter freely. Only a few types of guards could, and their entry always signified something important requiring Zhong Shan''s decision.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "Reporting to the Holy King, an urgent message from Emperor Xiang Xiang requires your decision!" the guard said promptly.


    "Speak!" Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    "Emperor Xiang Xiang is in danger and needs immediate assistance!" the guard reported.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes widened. "When did this message arrive? Where is she?"


    "The message arrived less than a hundred breaths ago. The location is the Withered Sea Abyss, and the sender is Elder Jiu Laotou," the guard exined.


    "The Withered Sea Abyss? Any other information?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "No, that''s all we have," the guard replied.


    Yi Yan, standing nearby, began calcting quickly.


    "Not good!" Yi Yan suddenly eximed.


    "You know something?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "The Withered Sea Abyss. I remember now. Five years ago, I read some information about the Withered Sea Abyss. The Withered Wood Wolves are a strange and powerful race, especially strong when they act as a group. But that''s not the key point. The key is the timing!" Yi Yan exined urgently.


    "What''s wrong with the timing?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning deeper.


    "Once every hundred years, the Withered Wood Wolves enter their mating season. Right now is their centennial mating period. During this time, the Withered Wood Wolves are much stronger than usual, significantly so!" Yi Yan said, frowning.


    Emperor Xiang Xiang and her followers paused in mid-air, looking at the vast forest ahead, which was actually made up entirely of Withered Wood Wolves.


    "Are there really wolves this ugly in the world?" Xiang Xiang frowned.


    The trees before her were over a thousand zhang tall, resembling dried and wrinkled skin, like trees ravaged by insects. Nobody would find these trees attractive.


    On these trees, eerie wolf faces protruded from the bark, making them look exceptionally strange.


    Were they wolves or trees? Whatever they were, they were undoubtedly hideous.


    Despite the arrival of Emperor Xiang Xiang and over a hundred wolf n members, the Withered Wood Wolves remained motionless, as if unaware of the intruders.


    Beyond these trees, Xiang Xiang could see the center, shrouded in ck mist and surrounded by countless Withered Wood Wolves. Within the ck mist, there was a rustling sound, and glimpses of tendrils could be seen.


    A powerful aura emanated from the ck mist, suggesting the presence of a formidable being within.


    As Xiang Xiang and her wolves advanced, the Withered Wood Wolves suddenly moved, whipping out long tendrils like whips.


    One tendril was manageable, but hundreds, thousands, or even millions of them made the sky appear filled with whip-like tendrils, looking overwhelmingly powerful.


    "Stop!" one of the Withered Wood Wolves suddenly spoke.


    The voice came from the wolf face on the tree.


    "I want to see your leader!" Xiang Xiang demanded.


    "Stop!" the Withered Wood Wolf repeated.


    It seemed the intelligence of the Withered Wood Wolves was not very high, as they only knew how to block intruders.


    What was inside? Xiang Xiang''s curiosity was piqued.


    In Changjing, Zhong Shan''s study.


    Zhong Shan was discussing state affairs with Yi Yan and others when a guard rushed in.


    Seeing this guard, Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow. His study was not a ce anyone could enter freely. Only a few types of guards could, and their entry always signified something important requiring Zhong Shan''s decision.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "Reporting to the Holy King, an urgent message from Emperor Xiang Xiang requires your decision!" the guard said promptly.


    "Speak!" Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    "Emperor Xiang Xiang is in danger and needs immediate assistance!" the guard reported.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes widened. "When did this message arrive? Where is she?"


    "The message arrived less than a hundred breaths ago. The location is the Withered Sea Abyss, and the sender is Elder Jiu Laotou," the guard exined.


    "The Withered Sea Abyss? Any other information?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "No, that''s all we have," the guard replied.


    Yi Yan, standing nearby, began calcting quickly.


    "Not good!" Yi Yan suddenly eximed.


    "You know something?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "The Withered Sea Abyss. I remember now. Five years ago, I read some information about the Withered Sea Abyss. The Withered Wood Wolves are a strange and powerful race, especially strong when they act as a group. But that''s not the key point. The key is the timing!" Yi Yan exined urgently.


    "What''s wrong with the timing?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning deeper.


    "Once every hundred years, the Withered Wood Wolves enter their mating season. Right now is their centennial mating period. During this time, the Withered Wood Wolves are much stronger than usual, significantly so!" Yi Yan said, frowning.


    "Mating season?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Bring me the map!" Zhong Shan immediately ordered.


    Yi Yan produced a jade slip. "I happen to have one here!"


    Zhong Shan quickly read the jade slip, and his figure blurred as he disappeared from the study.


    "The Holy King is gone. What should we do now?" one of the ministers asked in confusion.


    "Notify Luo Xingchen and Wang Ku immediately, and have them rush to the Withered Sea Abyss to aid the Holy King!" Yi Yan ordered the officials behind him.


    "Yes, sir!" they responded.


    At the Withered Sea Abyss.


    After a period of negotiations, Xiang Xiang had grown impatient with the clumsy and hideous Withered Wood Wolves. She could tell that the ck area surrounded by countless Withered Wood Wolves was likely their leader, the Withered Wood Wolf King.


    "Make way!" Xiang Xiangmanded.


    "Yes!" The wolves responded, drawing their weapons quickly.


    The Withered Wood Wolves blocked their path with a web of tendrils, resembling endless whips.


    The wolves charged, their des and swords shing, creating a spectacle of light and energy. However, the tendrils of the Withered Wood Wolves proved to be extremely resilient.


    Despite not defeating the Withered Wood Wolves, they managed to push through the tendrils, advancing towards the center. The hundred wolves were elite fighters chosen by Xiang Xiang. Despite the Withered Wood Wolves continuously swarming them, they prated deeper into the forest.


    Jiu Laotou, who had arrivedte, watched anxiously from the outskirts.


    Soon, Xiang Xiang and her group reached the center, where a vastke covered in ck watery. Thick ck mist shrouded the area, with loud sshing soundsing from within.


    "Wind!" Xiang Xiangmanded.


    A wolf skilled in wind maniption flew up, transforming into a massive green wolf. The green wolf''s form extended a thousand zhang, and a powerful gust blew across theke''s surface.


    As the wind dispersed the ck mist, the Withered Wood Wolves froze. Everyone stared at theke''s center in astonishment.


    Theke remained ck, but at its center stood a massive tree, evenrger and more grotesque than the other Withered Wood Wolves. This was the Withered Wood Wolf King, surrounded by twelve other Withered Wood Wolves.


    The Withered Wood Wolf King and the twelve surrounding it also paused, evidently disturbed by the sudden intrusion.


    "Supreme, I think we came at the wrong time," a red wolf beside Xiang Xiang said, looking slightly embarrassed.


    "Such an ugly Withered Wood Wolf King, uglier than all the other Withered Wood Wolves, and covered in what looks like corpse spots! Disgusting. Is this abomination really part of the wolf n?" Xiang Xiang murmured in disgust.


    "What do you mean by the wrong time?" Xiang Xiang asked the red wolf after expressing her distaste.


    "Well, it seems we arrived during the mating season. This is the Withered Wood Wolves'' time for reproduction. The Withered Wood Wolves outside were guarding their king during his mating ritual. Only after the Withered Wood Wolf King mates can the other Withered Wood Wolves begin," the red wolf exined, looking awkward.


    "What do you mean?" Xiang Xiang realized she was in an awkward situation.


    "The Withered Wood Wolf King is mating with his queens right now, and we interrupted them!" the red wolf said awkwardly.


    Even if Xiang Xiang was a bit slow, she quickly understood the situation. Moreover, she was exceptionally intelligent.


    "Sorry for the interruption. We''lle backter!" Xiang Xiang said, feeling embarrassed.


    As soon as she spoke, Xiang Xiang prepared to leave.


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    The Withered Wood Wolf King seemed to have finally reacted.


    "Kill them!" the Withered Wood Wolf King bellowed.


    At hismand, all the Withered Wood Wolves surrounded them, with countless tendrils whipping towards Xiang Xiang and her followers from all directions.


    "Hmph!" Xiang Xiang snorted in anger.


    The battle erupted.


    Xiang Xiang led her wolf pack into battle against the Withered Wood Wolves. The sounds of killing and roaring filled the air, and the battlefield was a chaotic mix of dazzling spells and fiercebat.


    Standing at the perimeter, Jiu Laotou watched anxiously.


    The battle raged on, with the interior obscured by the relentless onught. The Withered Wood Wolves had suddenly be much stronger, leaving Jiu Laotou frustrated and unable to get through.


    "Little ancestor, you must not be harmed. The Holy King entrusted me with your care. If anything happens to you, how will I exin it to the Holy King?" Jiu Laotou fretted.


    "Sir, the message has been delivered!" At that moment, one of the messengers returned.


    "The message reached Changjing?" Jiu Laotou''s face lit up with hope.


    "Yes!"


    "Good, I hope the Holy King arrives quickly, very quickly!" Jiu Laotou kept muttering.


    Half an hour passed.


    Zhong Shan had not yet arrived, but on a distant peak, another group of figures appeared.


    The Third Prince of the Wuxiang Holy Court and his entourage had arrived.


    Standing on the peak, they watched the massive battlefield below.


    "Wolves? Withered Wood Wolves? This battle looks quite strange," an official remarked.


    "Third Prince, what should we do? Should we rescue Emperor Xiang Xiang? It seems she has deep ties with the Da Xi Holy Court. Merely saving her might not be effective," another official suggested.


    "I know," the Third Prince said, taking a deep breath.


    "Are we going to kidnap Emperor Xiang Xiang?" the official asked, puzzled.


    "Of course not! I have a n. I want Emperor Xiang Xiang toe with me willingly," the Third Prince said with a sinister smile.


    "Huh?" The officials were confused.


    The Third Prince took out a red talisman from his sleeve. The talisman was inscribed with golden characters, giving it a very eerie appearance.


    "This is the Love Seed Talisman. I went through great difficulties to obtain it. In the entire world, both the yang and yin realms, there shouldn''t be more than five of these. I didn''t expect to use it here today!" The Third Prince''s excitement was palpable.


    "The Love Seed Talisman?" An official eximed in surprise.


    The Third Prince pricked his finger, squeezing out a drop of blood and letting it fall onto the golden characters on the talisman. The characters turned red, blending seamlessly with the talisman as if the characters had never existed.


    "Yes, once I imnt this talisman into Emperor Xiang Xiang''s body, she will start to develop feelings for me, growing deeper over time. It won''t be long before Emperor Xiang Xiang is mine," the Third Prince said excitedly.


    The officials were initially shocked, then congratted him, "Congrattions, Third Prince!"

 Chapter 916: A Twist of Fate

    <h4>Chapter 916: A Twist of Fate</h4>


    In the Withered Sea Abyss, Emperor Xiang Xiang and her hundred-strong wolf n fought against the relentless onught of tendrils.


    The Withered Wood Wolves had seemingly gathered in great numbers for this asion. Their strength, boosted by the mating season, put Xiang Xiang''s wolves at a severe disadvantage, making the battle increasingly dire.


    Moreover, more and more Withered Wood Wolves continued to gather, their numbers swelling.


    The sky was filled with tendrils, each one carrying a terrifying green glow. Sword lights shed, asionally severing a few tendrils, but there were simply too many. For every tendril cut, thousands more took its ce.


    Facing one or two Withered Wood Wolves, even five, the elite wolves of Xiang Xiang''s pack wouldn''t be afraid. But here, they faced an overwhelming number of tendrils, enough to block out the sun.


    "Swish!"


    One wolf n member''s arm was suddenly entangled by a tendril. In an instant, more tendrils wrapped around his legs and other arm, immobilizing him despite his celestial cultivation.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    The wolf n member screamed in agony as a tendril pierced through his abdomen. The brutalbat left him unable to defend himself, and another strike would mean certain death.


    "Boom!"


    A tremendous explosion of white light erupted, shattering the tendrils binding the wolf n member.


    He was saved.


    "Thank you, Supreme!" he groaned in pain.


    It was evident that the white light hade from Xiang Xiang. She had rescued the wolf n member in his moment of peril.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"


    Another scream echoed from a distance. Xiang Xiang''s eyebrows furrowed as she struck a wolf n member, sending him flying out of the Withered Wood Wolf sea.


    Her powerful blow was not meant to harm but to propel him to safety.


    In an instant, the wolf n member soared into the sky, escaping the sea of Withered Wood Wolves.


    "Supreme!" the injured wolf n member expressed his gratitude.


    In his heart, he felt a newfound determination. Three years ago, he had pledged allegiance to Xiang Xiang, recognizing her as his Supreme. But now, in this moment of life and death, as Xiang Xiang gave him the chance to escape, hepletely embraced her as his Supreme.


    Deeply moved, the injured wolf n member red at the Withered Wood Wolves.


    "Withered Wood Wolves, you better not harm the Supreme. Otherwise, I will destroy your n!" he vowed fiercely.


    In the distance, another figure flew out��another wolf n member rescued by Xiang Xiang.


    This wolf n member was also injured, having faced the same perilous situation inside.


    Once out, he too felt immense gratitude towards Xiang Xiang and became even more devoted. Only those who have faced life and death understand who truly matters most.


    One by one, wolf n members were rescued, but Xiang Xiang had not yet emerged.


    Jiu Laotou watched anxiously from the side.


    "Where is Emperor Xiang Xiang? Why hasn''t shee out yet?" Jiu Laotou asked one of the rescued wolf n members.


    "She wille out soon! The Supreme will definitely make it out!" The remaining wolves shared the same anxiety, silently praying for Xiang Xiang.


    Before long, almost all the wolf n members had been rescued, but Xiang Xiang was still inside.


    Countless tendrils filled the sky, making it impossible to see the interior of the battlefield. asionally, through tiny gaps, a glimpse of a white figure could be seen continuously fighting the Withered Wood Wolves.


    That figure was Emperor Xiang Xiang!


    The intense battle continued, with countless tendrils being severed and exploding, but many more remained��too many.


    Was Emperor Xiang Xiang trapped?


    The rescued wolves were filled with anxiety. They wanted to rush back in but knew it would be futile; they couldn''t get through, and most of them were already injured. Going back would only burden their Supreme.


    What to do? What to do?


    "Jiu Laotou, you were right. There is indeed danger," a wolf n member said in pain.


    "I''ve already notified the Holy King. I hope he can arrive in time!" Jiu Laotou said.


    "From so far away, how is that possible?" the wolf n member said despondently.


    "Let''s hope Emperor Xiang Xiang can hold on a bit longer!" Jiu Laotou shook his head.


    "The Supreme will surely make it. She will be alright!" The wolf n members clung to their hope.


    On another mountain peak.


    Among the group from the Wuxiang Holy Court, the Third Prince held the Love Seed Talisman, watching the vast battlefield in the distance.


    Through some gaps, they could catch glimpses of the battle within.


    "Third Prince, will Emperor Xiang Xiang be alright?" an official asked worriedly.


    "With the bloodline of the Wolf Ancestor, she won''t die. The strongest Withered Wood Wolf King is only at the peak of the Great Immortal stage. As long as it''s not an Ancient Immortal, Emperor Xiang Xiang will be fine, although she might suffer," the Third Prince said.


    "But this is during the Withered Wood Wolves'' mating season! Their strength has surged!" another official pointed out.


    The Third Prince frowned and thought for a moment, then said, "Hmm, don''t worry. I''m watching. Besides, I can''t imnt the Love Seed Talisman into Emperor Xiang Xiang right now."


    "Why not?"


    "Emperor Xiang Xiang still has strength left. She can dodge it. We need to wait until she''s exhausted and can''t avoid it. Once the Love Seed Talisman is imnted, I''ll save her!" the Third Prince said seriously.


    "A hero saving the beauty,bined with the Love Seed Talisman, Emperor Xiang Xiang won''t be able to escape the Third Prince''s grasp!" an official ttered.


    The Third Prince smiled evilly.


    In the center of the ckke, Emperor Xiang Xiang fought against the endless tendrils.


    Having sent her elite guards to safety, Xiang Xiang was now bearing the full brunt of the Withered Wood Wolves'' attacks. More and more tendrils, filled with domineering power, assailed her.


    Despite the overwhelming number, Emperor Xiang Xiang was confident she could break through. She was significantly more powerful than these tendrils, even if they were densely packed.


    But suddenly, a blood-red tendril whipped towards her.


    The blood-red tendril moved too fast, like a sh of lightning, reaching Emperor Xiang Xiang in an instant. Her pupils contracted as she swung her golden longsword.


    With a loud sh, Emperor Xiang Xiang''s attack failed to sever the blood-red tendril.


    More blood-red tendrils appeared instantly��dozens of them.


    It was the Withered Wood Wolf King. The hideous Withered Wood Wolf King had joined the fray.


    "Withered Wood Wolf King, you seek death!" Emperor Xiang Xiang shouted angrily. Her golden longsword danced swiftly, producing terrifying sword light.


    "Boom! Boom!"


    The explosive sounds were deafening. Emperor Xiang Xiang''s sword moved incredibly fast, but the blood-red tendrils were just as quick, each one faster than thest. Moreover, the tendrils were imbued with bloodlust, and with each sh, it seemed as if drops of blood were spilled.


    In the blink of an eye, Emperor Xiang Xiang was covered in blood, making her appear even more enchanting.


    Countless tendrils filled the sky, weaving a around her. Xiang Xiang could easily destroy ordinary Withered Wood Wolves, but facing the Withered Wood Wolf King was much more difficult. Without the interference of other Withered Wood Wolves, Xiang Xiang could oust the Withered Wood Wolf King, but the current situation was extremely unfavorable for her.


    After an hour of fierce fighting, Xiang Xiang''s right wrist was caught by a blood-red tendril.


    In the ckke, the hideous face of the Withered Wood Wolf King disyed a smug smile.


    Even Xiang Xiang''s longsword couldn''t cut through the blood-red tendrils. Now, how could she escape?


    A myriad of blood-red tendrils surged towards Xiang Xiang from all directions. In this critical moment, if Xiang Xiang were struck by the blood-red tendrils, she would be severely injured. But there was no way to escape.


    Outside, the tendrils shifted, revealing a gap.


    "Emperor Xiang Xiang is restrained!" an official eximed in delight.


    The Third Prince wouldn''t miss this opportunity. With a wave of his hand, the talisman in his grasp turned into a stream of light and shot through the gap in the tendrils. Just as it entered, the gap closed again.


    "Good, everyone, charge in with me!" the Third Prince shouted excitedly.


    Meanwhile, the wolf n members, seeing Xiang Xiang''s wrist bound by the tendrils, were horrified. But within a moment, the gap closed again, obscuring their view.


    "What do we do? How will I exin this to the Holy King?" Jiu Laotou fretted.


    Inside, a dozen blood-red tendrils sped towards Xiang Xiang with terrifying speed. The Withered Wood Wolf King watched in anticipation.


    Xiang Xiang was trapped! She looked at the Withered Wood Wolf King with disgust. It was too hideous, more repulsive than any tree, with decayed, ugly bark and a misshapen form.


    Despite her predicament, Xiang Xiang showed no signs of panic. Instead, she put away her golden longsword.


    A ck map suddenly appeared behind her. As it materialized, a red light shot into it. The ck map shed and reappeared in front of Xiang Xiang, shooting a red beam at the Withered Wood Wolf King.


    The blood-red tendril binding Xiang Xiang''s wrist was severed.


    In an instant, Xiang Xiang disappeared from her spot.


    The red beam struck the Withered Wood Wolf King, causing its body to stiffen. It appeared confused but immediately searched for Xiang Xiang.


    The next moment, Xiang Xiang reappeared, held in the arms of a man dressed in imperial robes. She looked blissfully happy, her arms wrapped around the man''s neck.


    Then, in a sh, they moved with an eerie speed, darting through the gaps in the sea of tendrils. They moved so quickly that even the Withered Wood Wolf King was left in disbelief.


    From another direction, a group of people charged in. The Third Prince, filled with excitement, led his subordinates in a powerful assault into the sea of tendrils.

 Chapter 917: Heartfire Lotus

    <h4>Chapter 917: Heartfire Lotus</h4>


    The vast sea of tendrils blotted out the sky, engulfing the Third Prince and his entourage in an instant.


    "I can feel it, she''s over there!" the Third Prince said excitedly.


    "Feel it?"


    "I''m certain the Love Seed Talisman has been imnted into Emperor Xiang Xiang, and it has fully merged! All we need to do is find her and take her out!" The Third Prince sted a path through the tendrils with a single palm strike.


    "Is this a mutual understanding of hearts?" an official ttered him.


    "Exactly! Hahaha!" The Third Princeughed joyously as he quickly advanced inward, undeterred by the Withered Wood Wolves.


    In no time, they reached the vicinity of the ckke.


    Though the battle had raged moments ago, the tendrils suddenly ceased attacking the Third Prince, leaving him momentarily perplexed.


    But those details were trivialpared to finding Emperor Xiang Xiang.


    Arriving at the edge of the ckke, the Third Prince eagerly searched, but there was no sign of Emperor Xiang Xiang��only the hideously grotesque Withered Wood Wolf King at the center.


    Where was Emperor Xiang Xiang? The Third Prince grew increasingly anxious.


    Meanwhile, at the center of theke, the Withered Wood Wolf King was also unable to locate Emperor Xiang Xiang. For reasons unknown, it turned its gaze towards the Third Prince. The order to cease attacking hade from the Wolf King.


    Twelve consorts drew closer to the Wolf King, but it disyed a strange expression of disgust, whipping them away with its tendrils as it slowly moved toward the Third Prince.


    The Third Prince, still unable to find Xiang Xiang, was growing desperate. Why did his sense still indicate she was here?


    Suddenly, the Third Prince had a bad feeling.


    Following his senses, he looked ahead, at therge mass approaching.


    Seeing the Withered Wood Wolf King, the Third Prince froze, sucking in a breath of cold air.


    "Third Prince, Emperor Xiang Xiang is missing!" an official shouted.


    The Third Prince remained in a daze, eyes wide, cold sweat dripping down his body.


    "Third Prince, aren''t you supposed to be in sync with her? Find her quickly!" another oblivious subordinate urged.


    In sync with her? Those words struck like a series of thunderbolts, hammering his spirit.


    "Nooooooooooooooo!"


    Zhong Shan had suddenly appeared, swiftly rescuing Xiang Xiang. Moving at a phenomenal speed, they darted through the countless tendrils, escaping the endless sea of tendrils in no time.


    Zhong Shan carried Xiang Xiang in his arms, while she clung to his neck, smiling happily at him.


    Theynded on the peak of a mountain.


    "Alright, we''re down," Zhong Shan said.


    "I don''t want to get down. Since I transformed, you haven''t held me like this," Xiang Xiang protested.


    Zhong Shan: "!"


    "If you don''t get down, the others will start to worry," Zhong Shan said gently.


    "Let them wait then!" Xiang Xiang said bluntly.


    Seeing Xiang Xiang''s resolve, Zhong Shan showed a hint of helplessness. "Alright, let them wait. It''s their fault for bing your burden!"


    "That''s not the reason!" Xiang Xiang shook her head.


    "What''s the real reason?" Xiang Xiang shook her head, unwilling to say.


    "What happened earlier? That Withered Wood Wolf King couldn''t catch you. Don''t you know water escape techniques? With water escape, no one can catch you!" Zhong Shan scolded.


    Xiang Xiang squirmed a bit but remained silent.


    "Do you realize how dangerous that was?" Zhong Shan reproached.


    Xiang Xiang pouted, "I wanted you toe save me!"


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was taken aback.


    "You saved Sister Qianyou when no one in the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty defended her, and you turned the tide in front of the entire court. You saved Sister Qingsi from a forced marriage by the strongest faction in the Small Thousand World, even crashing the wedding to rescue her. You saved Sister Ling''er, overwhelming three rivals with a grand ceremony of blessings. Bao''er and I have always been envious," Xiang Xiang said.


    "Huh? Bao''er?" Zhong Shan was puzzled.


    "Yes, I want you to save me too. Unfortunately, this ce isn''t dangerous enough. I''d love it if I were captured by a sage one day and you came to defeat the sage and rescue me," Xiang Xiang said with a longing expression.


    Zhong Shan was speechless.


    Defeat a sage to rescue you?


    Zhong Shan didn''t know what to say, standing in silence for a long time.


    "Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!"


    A heart-wrenching scream suddenly echoed from the sea of tendrils. The sound was so sorrowful it could make anyone cry.


    "Is there someone else inside?" Xiang Xiang looked puzzled.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "But I didn''t notice anyone when I was in there," Xiang Xiang said curiously.


    "They went in after we came out," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Huh? Who?" Xiang Xiang asked.


    "Looks like the Third Prince of the Wuxiang Holy Court," Zhong Shan said with a strange expression.


    "Huh? What are they doing in there?" Xiang Xiang asked, puzzled.


    "Looking for his lover, I suppose," Zhong Shan''s face twitched.


    Zhong Shan knew what they were up to. With so many shadow clones, he had overheard the Third Prince''s earlier conversation.


    But Zhong Shan also knew that the Love Seed Talisman had been imnted into the Withered Wood Wolf King! The Third Prince was in for a surprise.


    "Boom!"


    In the center of the sea of tendrils, the battle resumed. Terrifying tendrils danced rapidly, and the sounds of battle echoed from within once more.


    "Let''s go. If we don''t, your wolf n subordinates will charge in," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright," Xiang Xiang reluctantly let go of Zhong Shan and stepped down.


    The two returned to the square where the others were waiting.


    "Let''s charge in together!" a wolf n member shouted.


    "We must rescue the Supreme. She saved my life, and I have nothing to fear," the wolf n members resolved, ready to charge in.


    "Holy King!" Jiu Laotou eximed in surprise.


    His shout drew the wolves'' attention, and they saw Zhong Shan and Xiang Xiang flying down from a distance.


    "Supreme?"


    "Greetings, Supreme!" All the wolf n members were ted.


    "Thank you, Holy King!" The wolves quickly bowed to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nodded.


    Emperor Xiang Xiang felt a surge of satisfaction, noticing that the wolf n elite seemed increasingly loyal to her.


    "Holy King, your timing is impable!" Jiu Laotou eximed.


    "Your report was also timely. You will be rewarded for your great service. Report to Yi Yanter," Zhong Shan said with satisfaction.


    "Yes!" Jiu Laotou responded, thrilled.


    "Supreme, you''vee out, but who is inside?" The wolves asked curiously.


    "Step back and watch," Xiang Xiang instructed.


    "Yes!"


    Everyone flew to a distant peak to observe the terrifying battle in the sea of tendrils.


    "Zhong Shan, are you saying that the Third Prince inside was trying to set me up?" Xiang Xiang''s eyes turned cold.


    "Yes, but he can''t die just yet," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "Why not?" Xiang Xiang asked, puzzled.


    "He''s an Ancient Immortal. Killing him woulde at a great cost, even for Luo Xingchen. Plus, he has significant political value," Zhong Shan said gravely.


    "But��"


    "Don''t worry, one day, I''ll bring him to you, and you can deal with him as you see fit," Zhong Shan promised solemnly.


    "Alright!"


    "Haha, but I bet he''s quite frustrated now. The Love Seed Talisman ended up in the Withered Wood Wolf King during its mating season. Imagine having a desired mate appear during mating season. I almost hope the Wolf King seeds," Xiang Xiangughed.


    "Seeds?" Jiu Laotou and the wolves'' faces twitched at the thought. It was an unimaginable scenario.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    Two soft sounds marked the arrival of Luo Xingchen and Wang Ku behind Zhong Shan.


    "Holy King!" They greeted respectfully.


    Seeing that Xiang Xiang was safe, both realized the situation had been resolved. They were surprised by Zhong Shan''s speed, even though they had given their all, they were still much slower than Zhong Shan.


    "Heartfire Lotus, burn!" A furious roar from the Third Prince echoed from within the sea of tendrils.


    A massive wave of fire spread in all directions, turning everything in its path to ash. The Withered Wood Wolves were incinerated instantly, the ground melted, and mes shot into the sky.


    The umted yin lightning in the sky was dispersed by the mes, turning the Withered Sea Abyss into a sea of fire.


    Zhong Shan and his group, being at a distance and possessing great cultivation, werergely unaffected. However, the internal ghostly beings were all wiped out.


    The terrifying fire!


    In the center of the massive fire, the Third Prince held a ming red lotus, the source of the mes. His clothes were tattered, and his face showed intense grief and anger.


    All his subordinates had perished.


    The ming red lotus was burning the massive creature��the Withered Wood Wolf King.


    Under the lotus''s fire, the Withered Wood Wolf King could notst long. Soon, its entire body was aze, gradually burning to ashes.


    But its dying gaze, filled with resentment, drove the Third Prince into a frenzy.


    "Burn!" The Third Prince roared, and the mes tripled in size,pletely incinerating the Withered Wood Wolf King.


    "An ancient immortal artifact?" Xiang Xiang was taken aback.


    "The Wuxiang Holy Court''s ancient immortal artifact, the Heartfire Lotus," Luo Xingchen confirmed with a nod.


    "Luo Xingchen, seize that treasure!" Zhong Shanmanded sternly.


    "Yes!" Luo Xingchen drew his divine bow, nocking three arrows and releasing them simultaneously.

 Chapter 918 - 920: The Choice

    <h4>Chapter 918: Chapter 920: The Choice</h4>


    "Wang Ku, Wang Skeleton, Skeleton King. Hasn''t Wang Ku''s name always hinted at his status?" Old Five said gravely.


    King? The five powerful skeletons in the hall fell into silence. This spection was too shocking for them to process. The previous Skeleton King?


    The so-called Skeleton King was the supreme ruler of the Skeleton n, whose authority surpassed even that of a saint among the skeletons. A true sovereign.


    But Wang Ku''s identity was even more enigmatic. If this was true, he was the former Skeleton King!


    "Should we report this to the main alliance, inform the elders and the king?" one of the skeletons pondered aloud.


    "Discovering the previous king must be reported to the main alliance!"


    "Indeed, the main alliance will definitely reward us for this. Our soul fires have reached their limits. Advancing further is almost impossible. Only the rewards from the main alliance can help us continue to advance!"


    "This is a great opportunity!"


    "Old Five, what do you think?" the first skeleton suddenly asked.


    "Yes, Old Five, what''s your take? Your mind is the sharpest here," another skeleton added.


    Old Five thought for a moment and said, "I think our discovery is very sensitive. If handled poorly, it could bring about our doom!"


    "Doom?" the first skeleton asked, puzzled.


    All the skeletons turned their attention to Old Five, their initial excitement dissipating.


    "Yes, either we pretend we never found out and leave the Zhuanlun Territory, not getting involved, or we involve ourselves and risk getting crushed in the conflict between the old and new Skeleton Kings. We could be pulverized to dust!" Old Five said gravely.


    "Pulverized? That can''t be!" one skeleton eximed in disbelief.


    "Let''s analyze this. If we choose to get involved, we now face two Skeleton Kings. If we stay neutral, both sides will likely eliminate us. We can only choose one side. Let''s consider the former Skeleton King first. If we choose him, he''s currently weak and seems not to have fully recovered his strength. Standing with him means facing the current Skeleton King and possibly the entire main alliance of the Skeleton n," Old Five continued.


    "That''s pure suicide!" a skeleton immediately responded.


    "Let me finish. Following the former Skeleton King, advancing would not be difficult. There''s a saying among mortals, ''Better a timely help than a mere show of prosperity.'' Supporting the former Skeleton King now would ensure our rise if he regains power," Old Five asserted.


    "But can he rise again?" one skeleton doubted.


    "Hmm, let''s set that aside for now. Let''s talk about joining the new king, the current Skeleton King''s camp. Firstly, there''s a small chance that the Skeleton King might kill us to silence us!" Old Five said.


    "Kill us? Why?" the first skeleton asked. All the skeletons looked at Old Five.


    "Because we know too much. The Skeleton King doesn''t want the former Skeleton King to reappear, nor does he want us to know too much. After all, we aren''t his loyal followers. There are many elders in the main alliance. He might even want to eliminate the former Skeleton King without alerting the other elders. In that case, we would naturally be unnecessary," Old Five exined.


    After Old Five finished, the skeletons fell silent again.


    "Of course, there''s also the possibility that the Skeleton King will reward us. But such rewards would likely be less significant than what we could gain by helping the former Skeleton King in his time of need," Old Five concluded.


    The skeletons began to understand a bit more.


    "But there is another danger. If the former Skeleton King rises and retakes the throne, we five will be doomed," Old Five said.


    The hall fell into a stunned silence, the skeletons filled with a mix of shock and fear.


    "But can the previous Skeleton King truly rise again?" one skeleton doubted.


    "Why not? Sixty thousand years ago, when the current Skeleton King ambushed him, it was a perfect death trap, seemingly inescapable. Yet, the previous Skeleton King managed to escape, albeit heavily wounded. He must have extraordinary abilities. Furthermore, isn''t it possible that some elders in the main alliance still hold allegiance to the previous Skeleton King? Would his reappearance necessarily mean defeat?" Old Five said with conviction.


    "Old Five, you''ve got me all confused. What should we do?" a skeleton asked, perplexed.


    "The options remain: either we leave, pretending we saw nothing and stay alive, or we get involved and must choose the right side. Either we thrive, or we face destruction," Old Five stated.


    The hall descended into silence once more. The skeletons hesitated, deep in thought.


    "Leader, what do you think?" one skeleton inquired.


    "Comrades, we''ve been at our current level for many years. Our soul fires cannot advance, and we are stuck in the Daxian Realm. Do we wait for our soul fires to extinguish? Opportunities for advancement are rare, and perhaps this is the chance we''ve been waiting for. We must seize it!" the leader dered.


    The skeletons nodded in agreement.


    "Old Five, which side do you think we should join?" the leader asked.


    "We''re betting our lives on this, so we can''t afford to lose. I believe that if we are to take such a risk, we should go all in. I choose Wang Ku! Our goal should be to be the strongest skeletons, not to survive on mere scraps," Old Five said, revealing his ambition.


    "But what if we fail?" one skeleton worried.


    "Failure means death. I know the odds of sess with Wang Ku are low, but there is still a chance. Wang Ku will not mistreat us if we support him when he needs us the most, far better than currying favor after he has risen to power," Old Five affirmed.


    "But that means we would be opposing the king and the main alliance!" another skeleton expressed concern.


    "Great achievements oftene at great costs. As I said, if weck the resolve to face a thousand adversaries, we should leave now and avoid this conflict within the Skeleton n," Old Five stated resolutely.


    "Why not choose the current Skeleton King?" one skeleton asked.


    "I''ve already mentioned the three major drawbacks of siding with the Skeleton King: first, we might be silenced; second, our advancement in soul fire won''t match following Wang Ku; third, if Wang Ku rises, we will be his first targets. Furthermore, there are certainly elders in the main alliance who support Wang Ku. If we gain favors by helping eliminate Wang Ku, these elders will see us as enemies. At that point, we will have nowhere to turn," Old Five exined.


    The skeletons fell silent once again.


    "Leader, what do you think? We will follow your lead," the skeletons looked to the leader.


    The leader thought for a moment and said, "We will visit Wang Ku. I want to see what kind of skeleton he is. If hecks the spirit to inspire our loyalty, we will leave Zhuanlun Territory and go into hiding."


    The skeletons nodded in agreement.


    A monthter, in Changjing of the Dazhen Sacred Court.


    "Lord Wang, five great skeletons seek an audience outside Changjing," a golden skeleton reported to Wang Ku.


    "Five great skeletons?" Wang Ku was slightly puzzled.


    "Yes, ording to my assessment, these five skeletons likelye from the Manggu Holy Land, possibly the masters of the Manggu Holy Land," the golden skeleton respectfully replied.


    "Bring them to my hall," Wang Ku ordered solemnly.


    Not long after, the five great skeletons from Manggu Holy Land were brought to Changjing and entered Wang Ku''s grand hall. The hall doors closed as Wang Ku met with the five formidable beings.


    Three hourster, the hall doors opened, and Wang Ku emerged with the five great skeletons. The skeletons bowed respectfully to Wang Ku before swiftly departing.


    Soon after, Yi Yan arrived at Wang Ku''s pce.


    "General Wang, those five seem to be the great powers from Manggu Holy Land," Yi Yan said with a smile.


    "Yes, it won''t be long before Manggu Holy Land joins Dazhen," Wang Ku nodded.


    Two monthster, the great skeletons returned. This time, however, there were only four of them.


    The four great skeletons knelt on one knee.


    "What happened?" Wang Ku asked sternly.


    "Old Fourth betrayed us. He broke our initial oath and left Zhuanlun Territory. It''s highly likely he''s headed to the main alliance of the Skeleton n!" the leading skeleton said with shame.


    "What Old Fourth? I have no such brother. From now on, it''s just the four of us," another skeleton dered firmly.


    "Why didn''t you leave?" Wang Ku asked in a deep voice.


    "We swear to follow you unto death!" the skeletons immediately responded.


    "Stand up," Wang Ku nodded.


    After securing the loyalty of the four skeletons, Wang Ku went to see Zhong Shan.


    "Sacred King, I apologize for the previous concealment and hope for your forgiveness," Wang Ku said respectfully.


    "No need for forgiveness. I could guess as much. When the ancestor Guoshi emerged from the Zhuanlun Hallst time and you arrived faster than even the ancient immortal Luoxingchen, I had my suspicions. Besides, I didn''t ask about your matters, so there''s no crime of deceiving your lord," Zhong Shan said with a shake of his head and a smile.


    "I have brought trouble to Dazhen. The powerful beings of the Skeleton n will undoubtedly besiege Zhuanlun Territory. I wish to leave immediately to avoid bringing disaster upon Dazhen!" Wang Ku said solemnly.


    "Nonsense! Can Dazhen not protect a single subject? Wang Ku, remember this: as long as you are themander of Dazhen''s Ninth Corps, Dazhen will safeguard your safety. The Skeleton n? What of them? Can they hinder Dazhen''s progress? In the future, Dazhen will face many races. Will a single Skeleton n make us falter?" Zhong Shan thundered.


    "Thank you, Sacred King!" Wang Ku was slightly moved.


    "Things will remain as they were. Rest assured, with me here, there will always be a solution," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    "Yes! I have a request for the Sacred King''s approval," Wang Ku said after some thought.


    "Speak."


    "I don''t know when the main alliance of the Skeleton n will attack. I wish to seize this opportunity to quickly enhance my cultivation. The y Buddha is deciphering the major nodes of Zhuanlun Hall. I know of a ce, the Turbid Land of the Five Turbidities, where I can elerate the restoration of my former cultivation and perfect myself. I request that the y Buddha send me to the center of the Turbid Land through Zhuanlun Hall to aid my cultivation," Wang Ku said with certainty.


    Zhong Shan considered Wang Ku''s request and nodded, "I will send word immediately. Go and arrange your Ninth Corps, the Skeleton Corps."


    "Yes!" Wang Ku responded promptly.

 Chapter 919 - 918: The Origin of Wang Jingwen

    <h4>Chapter 919: Chapter 918: The Origin of Wang Jingwen</h4>


    Luo Xingchen drew his divine bow, nocking three arrows simultaneously. Each arrow was different in color: one blue, one green, and one gold. Though they seemed to serve different purposes, they shared onemon trait��speed, enhanced by the power of time.


    The arrows were so fast that they were imperceptible to the naked eye. With the aid of time maniption, the arrows reached the Third Prince in an instant.


    Just as the Third Prince was basking in the satisfaction of having incinerated the repulsive Withered Wood Wolf King with the Heartfire Lotus, he suddenly felt a spine-chilling sense of danger.


    "Boom!"


    The Third Prince''s figure blurred as he deflected the golden arrow with a sweep of his sleeve. However, the blue arrow struck the Heartfire Lotus, and the green arrow severed his connection to the artifact.


    The Third Prince was taken aback as the Heartfire Lotus was snatched away.


    Ambushed?


    In that instant, he realized that his assant was no less powerful than himself. Who was it?


    Focusing his gaze, he saw the Heartfire Lotus in the hands of his attacker.


    "Luo Xingchen, you''re still alive?" The Third Prince''s eyebrows shot up in surprise.


    Luo Xingchen, holding the Heartfire Lotus, swiftly returned to Zhong Shan''s side.


    The Third Prince looked at Zhong Shan and his group, and suddenly felt like he had been set up.


    This group against him alone, his subordinates all dead, while Emperor Xiang Xiang stood unharmed by Zhong Shan''s side.


    Was this a trap? A scheme by Zhong Shan?


    Impossible. Zhong Shan couldn''t be that devious. It had to be a series of coincidences. But how had Zhong Shan and his people arrived so suddenly and joined forces with Luo Xingchen?


    Luo Xingchen wasn''t killed by Zhong Shan? Of course, Zhong Shan, being only a celestial immortal, couldn''t have killed Luo Xingchen. They must have been putting on an act, deceiving everyone in the Wheel Domain.


    Everyone had been fooled by them.


    "Holy King!" Luo Xingchen respectfully handed over the Heartfire Lotus.


    It wasn''t until Luo Xingchen''s gesture that the Third Prince showed true shock. Luo Xingchen bowing to Zhong Shan?


    The dignified head of a dojo, now a subordinate to Zhong Shan?


    This scene was far more shocking than losing the artifact.


    "Luo Xingchen, you''ve degraded yourself to this extent. I must have overestimated you before," the Third Prince said coldly, all the while trying to reestablish his connection with the Heartfire Lotus.


    Unfortunately, Luo Xingchen''s arrow had severed the bond. Although the Third Prince could barely reconnect, he couldn''t fully control the artifact anymore.


    Seeing the artifact in Zhong Shan''s hand, the Third Prince fumed with anger.


    But the Third Prince, being the crown prince of the Wuxiang Holy Court, maintained hisposure. At least for now, he faced the formidable Luo Xingchen and the unpredictable Zhong Shan.


    Recovering the artifact now seemed impossible.


    "Seal!" the Third Prince shouted.


    In Zhong Shan''s hand, the Heartfire Lotus abruptly shrank, its enormous mes condensing into a golden sphere.


    "The Heartfire Lotus is sealed. No one can use it now. Zhong Shan, today''s humiliation will be repaid a hundredfold. For now, the Heartfire Lotus will stay with you," the Third Prince dered.


    After finishing his deration, the Third Prince didn''t linger, disappearing in an instant.


    Once he was gone, everyone rxed a bit.


    "Holy King, the Heartfire Lotus was originally crafted by a powerful fire cultivator. Once self-sealed, it''s very difficult to use again. It''s said that Nianben took eight thousand years to reawaken it," Luo Xingchen remarked regretfully.


    Ancient immortal artifacts were extremely tempting, but a sealed artifact was frustrating. Slowly refining it again would take an unbearable amount of time��eight thousand years.


    "No matter," Zhong Shan said.


    He turned his hand, and the Heartfire Lotus orb vanished.


    "What?" Luo Xingchen was incredulous.


    It was gone? Such a treasure couldn''t be stored in a regr space. How had Zhong Shan done it? Only a Great Immortal or above could solidify their own ''world,'' forming a tangible space. Yet Zhong Shan had managed this?


    Everyone else was equally astonished. Their respect for Zhong Shan deepened immensely.


    Where had the Heartfire Lotus gone? It had naturally been transferred to Zhong Shan''s true body through the Emperor''s Map.


    In the yang realm, Zhong Shan''s true body sat in a secluded chamber.


    He held the golden orb of the Heartfire Lotus in his hand.


    Ba Ji Tian Wei crawled onto Zhong Shan''s shoulder, its eyes gleaming as it stared at the golden orb.


    Zhong Shan tossed the orb.


    "Eeya!"


    Ba Ji Tian Wei opened its mouth excitedly and swallowed it, then disappeared contentedly.


    Ancient immortal artifacts weren''t useless just because they were sealed.


    In the yin realm, Zhong Shan returned to Changjing with his entourage.


    "Holy King, why didn''t you capture Nianben?" Yi Yan asked, puzzled.


    "How do you know I could capture him?" Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Nianben is not as strong as Luo Xingchen, and the Holy King is stronger than Luo Xingchen. Plus, we have the unpredictable Wang Ku. Capturing Nianben shouldn''t be difficult. Yet you let him go. Is it a favor to Nian Yuyou?" Yi Yan frowned.


    To Yi Yan, capturing the Third Prince Nianben was essential for dominating the Wheel Domain. If he returned to the south, recapturing him would be much harder.


    Zhong Shan smiled and shook his head. "Not at all. My rtionship with Nian Yuyou wouldn''t involve others. I let Nianben go because I need to unify the Wheel Domain as quickly as possible."


    "Huh? I don''t understand," Yi Yan said, puzzled. Letting Nianben go would make unifying the Wheel Domain more difficult, not easier.


    "Nianben? I need him to help me unify the southern region," Zhong Shan exined.


    Zhong Shan''s tone made it sound like Nianben was one of his subordinates. Yi Yan knew that wasn''t possible��Nianben would never serve the Da Xi. But what did Zhong Shan mean by having Nianben "help" unify the south?


    Suddenly, Yi Yan''s eyes lit up.


    "Holy King, could it be... Is Wang Jingwen one of our own?" Yi Yan was stunned.


    Previously, Yi Yan wouldn''t have dared to guess that. It was too unbelievable, impossible even. But now, Zhong Shan''s meaning was clear. There was only one exnation.


    Satisfied, Zhong Shan nodded slightly. "Indeed."


    Yi Yan''s shock turned into a profound sense of awe towards Zhong Shan.


    "Wang Jingwen? A minister of Da Xi? The newly crowned champion of the Wuxiang Holy Court? The Holy King''s reach is truly extensive. When did Da Xi acquire such a talent? Did the Holy King nt this seed before the opening of the heavens?"


    Seeing Yi Yan''s astonishment, Zhong Shan shook his head, "This Wang Jingwen, you know him."


    "Huh?" Yi Yan was puzzled.


    Know him? Yi Yan rummaged through his memories, trying to match the name Wang Jingwen to someone he knew.


    Suddenly, Yi Yan thought of someone.


    "Fan Yipin?" Yi Yan was shocked.


    "Yes, that''s him. Now that I think about it, Wang Jingwen''s strategies over the years are identical to Fan Yipin''s. It''s him!" Yi Yan was increasingly convinced.


    Fan Yipin was once the chief strategist under the Crown Prince Daxuan of the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty. He had participated in Zhong Shan''s Heaven Copse n andter disappeared when the Great Luo Heavenly Dynasty fought Da Xi. Some said he died, others that he fled. Yi Yan never expected that Fan Yipin was still alive and even became his colleague.


    "Holy King''s far-sightedness is truly admirable," Yi Yan said, deeply impressed.


    "Before the opening of the heavens, nning for the Great Thousand World was essential. Otherwise, we''d always be on the back foot," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    "But I find it puzzling. Fan Yipin was just a mortal at that time. How did he reach the Great Thousand World? After all, back then, the Holy King hadn''t yet opened the heavens, and mortals couldn''t leave the Small Thousand World," Yi Yan wondered.


    "Think again," Zhong Shan smiled.


    "Dragon n Supreme, Ao Lie?" Yi Yan guessed.


    "Correct. It was Ao Lie. Fan Yipin had great courage. Hemitted suicide in the Small Thousand World, preserving his soul, which Ao Lie then carried out using a magical artifact. He was reborn using secret techniques, bing the current Wang Jingwen," Zhong Shan exined.


    Looking at Zhong Shan, Yi Yan frowned, "Does Fan Yipin have any demands from the Holy King?"


    Suicide and rebirth involved great risks. Fan Yipin must have had some deep desire driving him.


    Zhong Shan looked at Yi Yan, nodding but not borating. Yi Yan felt more at ease, knowing this.


    "Now that I know Wang Jingwen is Fan Yipin, many recent mysteries are solved," Yi Yan said with a smile.


    "Oh?"


    "Several of our top talents in the Da Xi imperial exams didn''t pass. I tried to find themter, but they disappeared. I suspect the Holy King sent them south," Yi Yan deduced.


    "Wang Jingwen needed capable people to fill key positions," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "I understand now," Yi Yan said seriously.


    Zhong Shan had revealed this much to Yi Yan to send a message. Zhong Shan had noticed specific strategies targeting Wang Jingwen in Yi Yan''s ns. While it was good to relieve the sovereign''s worries, some matters didn''t need to be fretted over.


    This information helped Yi Yan and others know how to better expand Da Xi''s influence.


    In the Wheel Domain, Zhong Shan aimed to unify the region. Only by securing one area could he watch over the world.


    After sending Yi Yan off, Zhong Shan retreated to a quiet hall to meditate.


    His main body had broken through, and the Heartfire Lotus had elevated his cultivation from Celestial Immortal Eighth Layer to Celestial Immortal Ninth Layer.


    The shadow body also quickly reached Celestial Immortal Ninth Layer.


    An ancient immortal artifact, and it only increased oneyer? Zhong Shan was slightly conflicted.


    Meanwhile, the Third Prince Nianben, who had just left the northern region, was filled with frustration. This trip north had yielded nothing; he lost his artifact and subordinates. Suddenly, Nianben stopped, sensing his artifact. His face changed.


    "Roar! Zhong Shan, I swear I will tear you apart!"

 Chapter 920 - 919: The Former Skeleton King

    <h4>Chapter 920: Chapter 919: The Former Skeleton King</h4>


    Ten years flew by in the blink of an eye.


    Since Da Xi detained the emperors of sixteen heavenly courts, the pace of their conquests had elerated tremendously. In just ten short years, nearly half of the northern Wheel Domain had fallen under the control of the Da Xi Holy Court.


    This speed of expansion was terrifying! No other holy court emerging from a Small Thousand World had ever been this audacious.


    This rapid expansion put every heavenly court in the northern Wheel Domain on edge.


    In Changjing, within the Immortal Hall during a morning assembly.


    Zhong Shan sat on the dragon throne, observing his ministers below.


    "Holy King, our court should not continue warring across the world at this time," Xiao Wang stepped forward to report.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Our territory can still expand, but we are severelycking in talent. We must solidify control over the vastnds we have conquered. If we cannot hold these territories, the hearts of the border troops and civilians will be restless. We need to consolidate central power and then resume expansion," Xiao Wang said confidently.


    "I second this," Yi Yan added. "As General Xiao said, our territory has expanded too quickly. We need to strengthen central authority and enhance our military strength, selecting stronger soldiers. The army needs a period of rest, and so do the people. Moreover, if we press too hard on the remaining northern territories, they will unite against Da Xi. If we allow them some breathing room, their internal conflicts will escte. Once we are rested, we can take the rest of the northern Wheel Domain with ease."


    Tapping his finger on the dragon throne, Zhong Shan nodded, "Approved."


    At the same time, in the southern Wheel Domain, within the Tian Ci Mansion.


    The Third Prince, Nian Ben, Wang Jingwen, and several officials stood respectfully.


    In front of them was an old eunuch, nked by two men in purple robes.


    The old eunuch had just delivered an imperial edict and handed over the decree.


    "Third Prince, the Holy King is very displeased with you," the old eunuch said softly.


    Nian Ben frowned but nodded.


    "These two have been transferred from the Imperial Martial Hall. They are Ancient Immortals assigned to you. Although the Holy King is displeased, he still cares for you greatly. No other prince has ever been granted two Ancient Immortals at once. You are the first!" the eunuch said with a smile.


    "Please thank the Holy King for me," Nian Ben''s expression softened.


    "Of course. I have delivered the decree, so I will take my leave and report back to the Holy King," the eunuch said.


    "Let me see you off."


    "No need!" The eunuch''s figure blurred and disappeared from sight.


    "Greetings, Third Prince!" The two men in purple robes bowed slightly to Nian Ben.


    "Mm!"


    "For now, rest here," Nian Ben instructed.


    "At yourmand."


    "Someone, escort these two to Tianzi Courtyard to rest!" Nian Ben ordered.


    "Yes!"


    Soon, the two Ancient Immortal experts were escorted away.


    "Third Prince, I must also return to lead the army. There are four major battles today that require my orders," Wang Jingwen said.


    "Go ahead," Nian Ben said kindly.


    Wang Jingwen nodded and left.


    As Wang Jingwen departed, the Third Prince''s face darkened, clutching the imperial edict with a furrowed brow.


    "Third Prince, the Sacred King repeatedly praises Wang Jingwen in the edict but often expresses dissatisfaction with you. It''s very intriguing! I''m worried..." the official said, frowning.


    "Worried about what?" the Third Prince asked.


    "I''m worried the Sacred King might recall you to Wuxiang Territory and appoint Wang Jingwen as the regional governor," the official replied.


    Nian Ben''s pupils contracted as he shook his head, saying, "Impossible!"


    Nian Ben knew it was impossible because no matter how strong Wang Jingwen was, he was merely an outsider, while Nian Ben was the Sacred King''s bloodline descendant. However, this matter could not be ignored. Even if Wang Jingwen wasn''t appointed, he could still be reced by someone else. The Sacred Court of Wuxiang had no need for the useless. Performing poorly could result in losing his position as the crown prince.


    "But, Third Prince..." the official began.


    "Enough! No more on this topic!" Nian Ben interrupted.


    "Yes, Your Highness," the officials reluctantly nodded.


    Three dayster, Wang Jingwen brought a batch of documents to Nian Ben.


    "Third Prince, for this major exam at Tianci Prefecture, we gathered arge number of talents. I''ve marked them with red lines. I think it''s most prudent to use these marked individuals to manage the ten newly captured cities," Wang Jingwen suggested.


    The Third Prince carefully examined the list on the jade slip.


    Looking at the names, Nian Ben frowned slightly. Although these were talented individuals, they had all hosted banquets for Wang Jingwen after the exam, and Wang Jingwen had attended several of them. Were these Wang Jingwen''s loyal followers?


    Realizing this, Nian Ben''s expression tightened. Was Wang Jingwen building his own power base? Absolutely not.


    "Hmm, these people will be of great use to meter. Let''s send thest thirty individuals on the list instead. They also performed well in the exam," Nian Ben said in a deep voice.


    "Huh?" Wang Jingwen''s expression changed.


    As expected! Nian Ben smirked inwardly. So these people were indeed your loyal followers. It''s a good thing I noticed.


    "Understood," Wang Jingwen nodded. Although he said nothing more, a hint of disappointment flickered in his voice.


    After seeing Wang Jingwen off, Nian Ben felt ted. Yes, build your loyal base. No matter how much credit you earn or how much territory you conquer, as long as my trusted people govern thosends, what can you do?


    Leaving Nian Ben''s glee aside, Wang Jingwen also wore a cold smile after departing from Tianci Prefecture.


    "Loyal followers? The people you select will be the ones who eventually end you!" Wang Jingwen sneered, heading straight to the mainmand camp.


    In terms of strategy, the Third Prince was clearly no match for Wang Jingwen.


    Meanwhile, in the south, under Wang Jingwen''s scheming, the expansion was relentless, with no sign of rest. It seemed like they were expanding territory for the Sacred Court of Wuxiang, but hidden within was an extremely insidious n. Despite gaining vastnds, control was unstable, inevitably leading to future troubles.


    In the northern part of the Zhuanlun Territory, in a remote holynd, the Manggu Holy Land.


    Inside a grand hall of the Manggu Holy Land, five golden thrones surrounded the center.


    If Zhong Shan were present, he would be surprised to find that these golden thrones resembled Wang Ku''s bronze throne, except one was gold and the other bronze.


    On the five golden thrones sat five figures in ck robes, but the armrests of the golden thrones were not human hands��they were skeletal ws. These were five powerful members of the Skeleton n.


    With the hall doors closed, the five Skeleton n members sat in silence.


    After a long silence, one of the skeletons finally spoke.


    "Alright, there''s no one else here. What do you all think of this matter?" one skeleton asked.


    "The Ninth Corps Commander of the Dazhen Sacred Court, Wang Ku? He also has a Skeleton Throne, clearly having emerged from the Skeleton n''s main alliance," another skeleton replied.


    "ording to various intelligence sources, Wang Ku''s soul fire is extremely advanced. This isn''t determined by cultivation; it''s a precious symbol of identity. Who exactly is he?" another skeleton asked.


    "It''s strange. Such a soul fire is only possessed by the descendants of our Skeleton n''s king!" the first skeleton remarked again.


    "A descendant of the king? No, I''ve seen the descendants of the king, skeletons ignited by the king''s soul fire. Even though their soul fire is diluted, I feel that their soul fire doesn''tpare to Wang Ku''s!" another skeleton added.


    "Wang Ku? Daxian? Captured by Zhong Shan in the small world, his origins are extremely mysterious! But why is his soul fire so advanced?" the first skeleton asked again.


    "Skeletons from the small world can''t grow to that level. Only skeletons from the great world could, but when did the great world have such a skeleton? With such an advanced soul fire, he should have long been invited to the sect, maybe even be an elder of the main alliance! How could he fall to the point of serving others?" the skeletons fell silent again.


    "Old Five, you haven''t said anything. Among us, your knowledge is the most extensive. What do you think?" the first skeleton asked again.


    All the skeletons looked towards the smallest ck-robed skeleton in the south.


    "I, well, I don''t know how to put it!" Old Five hesitated.


    "There''s nothing you can''t say. We''ve all saved each other''s lives; there''s nothing to hide," the first skeleton said again.


    "I have a theory, but even I find it hard to believe. Yet, aside from this theory, I can''t think of anything else!" Old Five said, troubled.


    "Go ahead! We''ll listen. Your guesses have never been wrong," the skeletons urged.


    "Do you remember the significant event that happened to the Skeleton n six hundred thousand years ago?" Old Five asked.


    "Six hundred thousand years ago?" one skeleton seemed unsure.


    "I think I remember. Back then, the king of the Skeleton n wasn''t the current king; it was the previous king. But suddenly, the previous king perished, and the new king was born, who is now our king!" the first skeleton recalled.


    "Old Five is right. The previous king''s demise led to the birth of the new king. However, do you know that the new king actually overthrew the previous king to seize the throne?" Old Five revealed.


    "The new king overthrew the previous king? So the current king took the throne by rebelling against the previous king?" the first skeleton was astonished.


    "Yes, this has been a secret within the Skeleton n, and over the tens of thousands of years, it has always been a taboo for the king. No one dares to mention it. The previous king didn''t perish but disappeared. For tens of thousands of years, the current king has been sending trusted skeletons to search for the previous king''s whereabouts, until about a hundred thousand years ago when the search gradually eased," Old Five exined.


    "Old Five, are you suggesting that Wang Ku is the previous king?" the first skeleton was shocked.


    The other skeletons were also stunned.


    "Wang Ku, Wang Skeleton, Skeleton King. Hasn''t Wang Ku''s name always hinted at his status?" Old Five said deeply.

 Chapter 921: The Great Yin Marches South

    <h4>Chapter 921: The Great Yin Marches South</h4>


    Wang Ku entered the Land of Five Impurities, delving into the Miasma of Cmity. In this ce, his recovery elerated significantly. The fourrge skeletons who had pledged their allegiance to him were ignited with soul fire by Wang Ku before he secluded himself. This act enabled them to break through again, and it also marked them indelibly with Wang Ku''s imprint.


    For the time being, the Holy Land of Mang Bone remained isted, not openly dering its allegiance to the Great Yin Holy Court. This decision was part of a strategic arrangement, and Mang Bone was still under the control of the old Da Fan Ba Gu.


    Themand of the Great Yin Skeleton Legion was temporarily handed over to the original Fifth Elder, Fan Ba Dou Tian, who fully cooperated with Yi Yan''s various operations.


    Thus, fifty years passed.


    In these fifty years, although the Great Yin had not expanded outward, internally it had undergone earth-shattering changes. The strength of its soldiers had quintupled, even though their numbers remained the same. Through numerous civil examinations, countless talents emerged, who were then dispatched to key locations. The central authority of Great Yin was immensely strong, ensuring that Zhong Shan''s orders were executed with lightning speed.


    As Xiao Wang and Yi Yan predicted, the four surrounding dynasties had indeed begun to wage war against each other due to the Great Yin''s inactivity over the past fifty years. Old conflicts resurfaced.


    In the north, the Great Yin upied half of the territory. In the south, the Wuxiang Holy Court had been expanding relentlessly over these decades, never resting. Their terrifying expansion nearly unified the southern part of the Zhuanlun Domain. Within five years, they would undoubtedly achieveplete unification.


    In the Tianzi Mansion.


    Third Prince Nian Ben stared at arge map projection before him, surrounded by his subordinates.


    "Congrattions, Third Prince. There are only four more celestial dynasties left. The unification of the southern Zhuanlun Domain is imminent!" one subordinate congratted.


    Nian Ben frowned at the map, sighing slightly, "This Wang Jingwen is truly a military genius. To unify the Zhuanlun Domain in just about sixty years is incredible, a world-shaking talent!"


    "Our Wuxiang Holy Court has no shortage of talented people who can rival Wang Jingwen," one official said indignantly.


    "The key is that none of them are you!" the Third Prince said sternly.


    The officials looked ashamed.


    "Nor me, for that matter," the Third Prince added with a wry smile.


    "Third Prince, the southern Zhuanlun Domain is almost taken. What should we do about Wang Jingwen?" another official asked.


    "No need to worry. I have reced everyone in each city with my own people. Wang Jingwen''s loyal followers can''t infiltrate, so what is there to worry about?" the Third Prince said confidently.


    "You can''t say it like that, Third Prince. Have you visited the armytely? Every soldier admires Wang Jingwen. He is like a god to them, a miracle on the battlefield. I even believe that if Wang Jingwen gave the word, all the soldiers would storm the Tianzi Mansion!" an official said rmingly.


    "Enough!" the Third Prince snapped.


    "Forgive me, Third Prince!" the official apologized immediately.


    Taking a deep breath, the Third Prince sighed, "But Wang Jingwen is indeed a brilliantmander."


    "Third Prince, we cannot keep Wang Jingwen any longer. If we do, even if we unify the southern Zhuanlun Domain, it will still belong to Wang Jingwen, not you. When the Holy King sends an envoy to inspect and sees this, he will be utterly disappointed in you. We..." the official said, feigning concern for the Third Prince.


    The Third Prince fell silent.


    "Third Prince, only four celestial dynasties remain. Our Tianzi Mansion''s vast armies can conquer them even without Wang Jingwen. Why not..." the official trailed off suggestively.


    "Why not what?"


    "Why not request amendation for Wang Jingwen?" the official said with a sly smile.


    "Commendation?" The Third Prince raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, amendation. The Zhuanlun Domain no longer needs Wang Jingwen. With you, Third Prince, it''s enough. However, the Wuxiang Domain might still need him. You can request amendation for Wang Jingwen and have him promoted and sent back to the Wuxiang Domain. As for the remaining four celestial dynasties here, we can handle them ourselves!" the official suggested.


    "Indeed, Third Prince, this way, Wang Jingwen gets promoted. While the military leaders will miss him, they won''t be too upset. Their admired leader is being promoted after all. Once Wang Jingwen leaves, the entire southern Zhuanlun Domain will be under your control!" another official added.


    "And what about the north?" The Third Prince frowned.


    "With the south unified, defending against the north bes easier. The north is currently in chaos, and the Great Yin only upies half of thend. When their full-scale war breaks out, they will be severely weakened. We can then march north and easily defeat the Great Yin. Even if our expansion is limited, defending our territory won''t be difficult!" the official exined.


    "Good, good, good!" The Third Prince eximed three times in session.


    Four yearster, in the Tianzi Mansion.


    "Wang Jingwen, the southern Zhuanlun Domain is all thanks to your efforts. I have requested amendation for you, and the Holy King has approved it. You will be promoted and sent to the Wuxiang Domain. There, you must continue to excel!" Nian Ben said, feigning sincerity.


    Wang Jingwen saw through it all but maintained a bitter expression.


    "Thank you, Third Prince," Wang Jingwen said with a forced smile.


    "After all these years together, it''s only right," Nian Ben replied with a smile.


    "I will head to the military to bid farewell to themanders," Wang Jingwen said.


    "No need. The Holy King''s orders are for you to depart immediately. I will speak to themanders myself," Nian Ben said promptly.


    "Understood," Wang Jingwen replied.


    "I will send two Grand Immortals to escort you. You must leave at once," Nian Ben ordered.


    "Yes," Wang Jingwen responded.


    Two Grand Immortals escorted Wang Jingwen and his entourage to the Wuxiang Domain with full force.


    Leaving the Zhuanlun Domain, Wang Jingwen''s lips curled into a cold smile. Nian Ben? Even more foolish than I thought. I haven''t even made a move, and he''s already cut off his own arm by sending me away.


    "Sir, why are you smiling?" a subordinate asked, puzzled.


    "It''s nothing. Quick, let''s head to the Wuxiang Domain. Hmm, let''s take a quieter route," Wang Jingwen said with a smile.


    "Yes, sir!"��


    After sending Wang Jingwen off, Nian Ben felt ted and held a grand banquet for three days.


    However, dissatisfaction soon spread through the army. The soldiers were unhappy about Wang Jingwen''s departure, but Nian Ben paid it no mind. It was natural for the troops to feel unsettled when theirmander left.


    It took Nian Ben two months to appease all the military leaders. Feeling pleased, he returned to the Tianzi Mansion.


    Seated on his throne, Nian Ben issued amand, "From now on, attack the remaining four celestial dynasties in the south and unify the southern Zhuanlun Domain!"


    "Yes, sir!" several officials responded immediately.


    Just as the officials were gearing up to make their mark, a scout suddenly rushed into the hall.


    "Reporting to themander!" The scout knelt on one knee.


    "What''s the matter?" The Third Prince asked, puzzled.


    "The Great Yin in the north is on the move. Arge number of troops are massing on our northern border, with signs of marching south!" the scout reported.


    "The north is still not unified, yet they wish to march south? Third Prince, this Zhong Shan is truly audacious!" an official scoffed.


    "Third Prince, I have a strategy to thwart Great Yin''s southern invasion!" another official suggested.


    "Oh?" The Third Prince looked intrigued.


    "Send letters to the powers surrounding Great Yin. They all see Great Yin as a threat. Once Great Yin moves south, their territories will be left unprotected. We can incite them tounch a joint attack on Great Yin, overwhelming them. Meanwhile, we will march north, not only resolving this crisis but also seizing vastnds." the official proposed.


    "Excellent n!" The Third Prince said, extremely pleased.


    Of course, this n seemed excellent only to the Third Prince. To Zhong Shan, it would be mere nonsense, a foolish strategy assuming everyone else was an idiot. Nevertheless, the n was set in motion.


    The Great Yin Holy Court, with Zhao Suoxiang as the vanguard, formally began their campaign against the southern territories of the Zhuanlun Domain!


    The war was imminent!��


    Simultaneously, in another domain in the underworld, and covered with endless skeletal remains, the skeleton n roamed far and wide. This was a kingdom of skeletons, with their figures seen everywhere. In the distancey an endless pce, heavily guarded by skeletons.


    This was the headquarters of the skeleton n.


    At the foot of a mountain on the outskirts, a skeleton in a ck robe stood facing a group of armored skeletons.


    "Do you think you can see the king whenever you want?" one of the armored skeletons said sternly.


    "I have urgent matters to report to the king. If you dy me and it impacts the king''s affairs, can you bear the responsibility?" the ck-robed skeleton said coldly.


    "Urgent matters? What kind of urgent matters?" the armored skeleton asked sternly.


    "If you don''t want the king''s wrath upon you, it''s best not to ask!" the ck-robed skeleton replied sternly.


    "Such arrogance!"


    "You''ll know soon enough if I''m being arrogant. Report to the king immediately. I must see him. I stake my life on it." the ck-robed skeleton said firmly.


    Staking his life? This must be serious. If it were trivial, the king would be the first to take his life.


    "The king is in seclusion!" the armored skeleton said solemnly.


    "The king is in seclusion? Why now?" The ck-robed skeleton was worried.


    "Should I notify one of the elders or a royal descendant?" the armored skeleton suggested.


    "No, this matter can only be reported to the king. I will wait here. As soon as the kinges out, notify me immediately. This matter cannot be dyed. The king must know." the ck-robed skeleton insisted.


    "Hmm, what could be so urgent?" the armored skeleton was puzzled.


    "Something neither you nor I can bear. Best not to ask!" the ck-robed skeleton said mysteriously.��


    In the southern Zhuanlun Domain, at the Tianzi Mansion.


    "What? Say that again?" The Third Prince stood up from his throne, ring angrily.


    "Great Yin''s forces are marching south. In their first battle, four cities surrendered without a fight,pletely falling to Great Yin!" an official reported with a bitter expression.

 Chapter 922: The Great Yin鈥檚 Assault

    <h4>Chapter 922: The Great Yin��s Assault</h4>


    In the southern Zhuanlun Domain, at the Tianzi Mansion.


    "What? Say that again?" The Third Prince stood up from his throne, ring angrily.


    "Great Yin''s forces are marching south. In their first battle, four cities surrendered without a fight,pletely falling to Great Yin!" an official reported with a bitter expression.


    "Impossible!" The Third Prince roared.


    "Your Highness, it''s true. The four city lords of the northern border cities surrendered almost simultaneously, without any warning, as if they had coordinated it. It seems they were bought by the Great Yin Holy Court. The border cities fell in an instant, and the Great Yin army is continuing to advance south!" the official said with a bitter expression.


    "That''s impossible. The four city lords of the northern border cities were personally chosen by me. They are absolutely loyal to the Wuxiang Holy Court. They cannot betray us!" the Third Prince refused to believe it.


    "This is the frontline battle report. Please see for yourself, Your Highness." The official handed over a jade slip.


    Scanning it with his divine sense, the Third Prince''s face turned ashen.


    "Smash!"


    The Third Prince furiously shattered the jade slip.


    "How dare they still be city lords? It turns out they were spies from the Great Yin all along. Zhong Shan, you''ve gone too far!" the Third Prince roared.


    "Third Prince, the Great Yin Holy Court clearly had this nned all along!" an official said worriedly.


    "Cease all operations in the southern Zhuanlun Domain immediately. Gather our forces to fend off the Great Yin''s southern invasion. Also, send letters to all the celestial dynasties around Great Yin, urging them to attack Great Yin together," the Third Princemanded angrily.


    "Yes, Your Highness!"


    "Zhong Shan, I swore to tear you to pieces, and I didn''t expect it would be so soon!" the Third Prince said coldly.


    In Changjing, the Immortal Pce, in the court.


    Zhong Shan sat on the dragon throne, listening to the reports from his ministers, lightly tapping his fingers on the throne.


    "Holy King, our army has moved south, capturing thirty-two cities so far. Twenty-eight of these cities'' lords were our people from Great Yin, leaving only four cities where we faced resistance. The twenty-eight cities submitted to Great Yin quickly, and the remaining four surrendered shortly afterward!" Xiao Wang reported excitedly.


    This campaign was unprecedentedly smooth. It felt less like conquering cities and more like conducting an inspection.


    At this moment, Xiao Wang once again marveled at the Holy King''s wisdom. Wang Jingwen, the insider in the enemy''s ranks, had been invaluable to Great Yin. For all these years, Wang Jingwen had beenying the groundwork for Great Yin, not the Wuxiang Holy Court.


    In this unification of the Zhuanlun Domain, Wang Jingwen''s contribution was unparalleled.


    "Hmm, I see. You, Xiao Wang, will be in charge of the southern Zhuanlun Domain," Zhong Shan said, nodding.


    "I ept the decree!"


    "Holy King, Nian Ben''s letters should have reached the rulers of the surrounding celestial dynasties by now," Yi Yan stepped forward and said.


    "They won''t dare to act. They are waiting for us and Nian Ben to destroy each other. Since that''s the case, let''s elerate our pace. We will take down the remaining twenty-four celestial dynasties and eighteen holynds in the north all at once," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "In the Small Thousand World, our Great Yin, as an imperial dynasty, conquered twenty-four imperial dynasties, defeating celestial dynasties with an empire. Now, as a holy court, we are subduing celestial dynasties with our strength. This will be even easier. Rest assured, Holy King!" Yi Yan replied respectfully.


    "Good. The Zhuanlun Domain is unified under the Wolf Tribe, making our operations easier," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Yes!"


    Back at the Tianzi Mansion.


    "Boom!"


    The Third Prince furiously flipped over themand table in front of him.


    "Third Prince, it''s now fifty-four cities. All fifty-four cities have surrendered to Great Yin. These people... were they not all...?" an official said, panic-stricken.


    Taking a deep breath, the Third Prince closed his eyes, forcing himself to remain calm. Suddenly, memories of his past conversations with Wang Jingwen resurfaced.


    "I want these people as city lords!" the Third Prince had said firmly.


    "Third Prince, these people are of unknown origins. I do not support their appointment as city lords. They are unqualified!" Wang Jingwen had warned.


    "Unqualified? And the ones you chose are qualified? Their backgrounds are clear?" the Third Prince had retorted disdainfully.


    "The people I chose have all been personally vetted by me. Though their backgrounds are unclear, they are absolutely loyal to the Tianzi Mansion!" Wang Jingwen had said earnestly.


    "The people I chose are also absolutely loyal to the Tianzi Mansion. Don''t argue anymore. This matter is settled," the Third Prince had insisted.


    With a slight sigh, Wang Jingwen had nodded. "I hope the Third Prince is right. I take my leave."


    Reflecting on Wang Jingwen''s repeated warnings, the Third Prince wished he could p himself.


    "Third Prince, Great Yin''s advance is too fast, and many of our officials are spies for Great Yin. There are certainly more traitors in the remaining cities. What should we do next?" an official asked.


    Shaking his head, the Third Prince looked dejected. "I personally chose all the city lords. I can''t remove them now. I don''t even know who to remove. Removing them all would cause massive turmoil! Zhong Shan, what a poisonous n!" Just then, another official rushed in.


    "Third Prince, we have a problem. The remaining four celestial dynasties in the southern Zhuanlun Domain are taking advantage of the situation. We are now besieged from both sides." the official reported anxiously.


    The Third Prince slumped back into his seat.


    "Reports of defeate in every day. I don''t even know which cities truly belong to us anymore." the Third Prince said with a despondent look.


    "Third Prince, recall Wang Jingwen!" an official suggested.


    "Yes, Third Prince. It has only been a year. Wang Jingwen has not yet reached the Wuxiang Domain. Just use the Holy King''s purple order, and he will surely return." another official urged.


    "Our control over the southern Zhuanlun Domain is still strong, even in defeat. It would take at least ten years for Great Yin''s army to reach us, even if they continue winning. If Wang Jingwen returns, we have a chance!" Finally, the officials began to see Wang Jingwen''s value.


    "Fine, that''s our only option." The Third Prince''s face turned grim, but he had no other choice.


    A yearter.


    In the Tianzi Mansion.


    The Third Prince watched the song and dance in the hall, when suddenly an official rushed in.


    "If it''s another defeat report, I don''t want to hear it. I''m tired." The Third Prince shook his head.


    For the past year, defeat reports had been a daily urrence, and the Third Prince''s ears had grown callous. This year had been an unprecedented ordeal for him. The formermanders, who had performed brilliantly under Wang Jingwen''smand, now seemed inept under his leadership. Why?


    Why? Because the true military genius had been demoted by Wang Jingwen and hidden away somewhere. The currentmanders were merely obedient generals, excellent at following orders butcking the strategic brilliance to lead a campaign.


    Meanwhile, in Changjing, the Immortal Pce, Zhong Shan continued to receive reports from his ministers, confident in his unrelenting advance. The war for the Zhuanlun Domain was far from over, but the tides had already turned decisively in favor of the Great Yin.


    With defeat after defeat, the Third Prince''s spirit had plummeted to an all-time low. Only the daily songs and dances provided him with a semnce of relief.


    "No, it''s not another defeat report, Third Prince. Our people have returned, but... Wang Jingwen, Wang Jingwen, he..."


    "Wang Jingwen has returned?" The Third Prince immediately perked up.


    "No, Wang Jingwen''s party changed their route at some point and have disappeared without a trace!" the official reported.

 Chapter 923: The Opening of the Zhuanlun Hall

    <h4>Chapter 923: The Opening of the Zhuanlun Hall</h4>


    Three yearster, in the Tianzi Mansion.


    "Are the celestial dynasties surrounding Great Yin still unwilling to send troops?" the Third Prince asked calmly.


    At this moment, the Third Prince seemed to have matured significantly, no longer as impetuous as he was a few years ago.


    "Yes, Your Highness. We cannot understand why they refuse to join forces to eliminate the scourge of Great Yin," an official said, worry evident on his face.


    "They can''t eliminate them. Besides, those celestial dynasties might have already been infiltrated by Great Yin. Without external wars, internal conflicts have probably already started," the Third Prince said bitterly.


    "What should we do now, Your Highness? Great Yin has already taken over a significant portion of the southern territories. If this continues, we will undoubtedly be defeated. Should we request reinforcements from the capital?"


    "No need. At this point, seeking reinforcements is meaningless. Tomorrow, I will head north with two ancient immortals from the Martial Hall. We will go straight to the Great Yin''s capital and destroy Changjingpletely," the Third Prince said coldly.


    In a war between celestial dynasties, a direct confrontation between kings was ast resort. It was not just about failing to capture the enemy''s fortune but also about dering to the world that this king had only brute courage, unworthy of being a supreme leader. Talents would seek out wise rulers; who would follow a mere brute?


    But at this moment, the Third Prince had no choice. This battle would determine everything. If he could defeat Zhong Shan, he would request to be transferred to the Wuxiang Domain, leaving this sorrowful ce behind.


    "Yes!" The officials felt the weight of the situation.


    If the Third Prince could not stop Zhong Shan and the advance of Great Yin, it would be a disgrace. Losing influence was bad enough, but losing the southern territories entirely could cost him his position as the crown prince.


    In Changjing.


    "Holy King, Nian Ben has left the Tianzi Mansion with two ancient immortals. They should arrive at Changjing in five days," Yi Yan reported respectfully.


    With themunication from the life tablets, Zhong Shan could monitor movements across the world at any time.


    "Understood."


    Five dayster, three figures appeared outside Changjing.


    Nian Ben, dressed in golden robes, and two men in purple clothes stood at the outskirts of Changjing.


    Nian Ben''s eyes gleamed coldly.


    "Changjing holds the fate of Great Yin. Be careful, both of you. Prepare to act," Nian Ben said coldly.


    "Yes!" the two men responded immediately.


    "Third Prince of the Wuxiang Holy Court, trespassing in Great Yin, what crime should you bear?" A thunderous voice echoed through the sky.


    Nian Ben''s eyelid twitched. How did Zhong Shan discover us? How did he know?


    Looking towards Changjing, Nian Ben saw Zhong Shan leading his ministers out of the Immortal Pce. After stepping outside, a dragon throne suddenly appeared behind Zhong Shan. He sat down and gazed at Nian Ben calmly, with his ministers standing respectfully on both sides.


    "Zhong Shan!" Nian Ben said coldly.


    Old and new grudges surged within him, and his expression grew fierce.


    "What''s this? The Third Prince has crossed the line again. Last time, you left me a Heart Dao Fire Lotus. What do you n to leave behind this time?" Zhong Shan said with a sinister smile.


    "Hmph, Zhong Shan, you can keep boasting. Even if you use the power of Great Yin and add Luo Xingchen, it only amounts to the strength of two ancient immortals. This time, I will destroy Changjing and kill you, Zhong Shan!" Nian Ben dered coldly.


    "I''ve heard that countless times, but no one has seeded. Stop making empty threats in front of me; I''m tired of them!" Zhong Shan said disdainfully.


    "You''ll pay for that remark. Attack now, or you''ll never get another chance!" Nian Benmanded.


    "Hahaha, such words would be fittinging from the Wuxiang Holy King. But from you? Far from it!" Zhong Shan retorted disdainfully.


    "Hmph, attack!" Nian Ben ordered sternly.


    As soon as Nian Ben spoke, the two men in purple robes sprang into action. Suddenly, an abundance of green light erupted around them. From the void, countless vines emerged, covering the sky as if they grew directly from the air, heading toward Changjing.


    Around Changjing, numerous formations activated, but the vines clung to them bizarrely and quickly began to cover the sky over the city. In no time, the vast city of Changjing appeared like an egg, wrapped tightly by the endless vines, casting the city into darkness.


    As the vines enveloped Changjing, they exerted a terrifying pressure, seemingly intending to crush both the city and its formations.


    Zhong Shan gave a slight nod to the mud bodhisattva, who then disappeared in a sh.


    Outside, the horrific green vines appeared to grow along the lines of heavenlyws, exuding a domineering force of ''life''. The vines were everywhere, a supernatural ability controlled by the two purple-robed experts. This power ignoredws and rules, forcefully binding Changjing and aiming to restrict Zhong Shan from utilizing the city''s immense fortune.


    Nian Ben smirked coldly.


    But suddenly, from the gaps in the vines, ck water began to seep out. As the ck water spread, the vines rapidly withered, and countless spirits emerged from the ck water, appearing in torment. The cries and howls of these spirits echoed through the heavens and earth.


    Wherever the ck water flowed, the vines withered. The ck water surged upwards, scattering in all directions. The supernatural power of the two purple-robed experts was instantly neutralized.


    The sky cleared, and the vines vanished.


    In the void, a ck sea formed, with arge wave cresting. Standing atop the wave was a figure in ck robes.


    The mud bodhisattva!


    The ck sea beneath the mud bodhisattva''s feet was formed from the ck water that had suddenly appeared. Countless ghosts churned within the water, exuding an aura of pure malevolence.


    "What is this?" Nian Ben''s eyelids twitched violently.


    Who is this? It''s not Zhong Shan, nor is it Luo Xingchen. That boundless celestial vine was an extremely powerful supernatural ability, yet it was destroyed in an instant? Who is he?


    "Nian Ben, didn''t the Wuxiang Holy King teach you? Never provoke someone without first understanding their background, as doing so is a quick path to death. How much do you really know about Great Yin?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Third Prince, this is the Foulness of Beings from the Five Impurities, specifically from the eastern Zhuanlun Hall!" one of the purple-robed men eximed in shock.


    "What? The Foulness of Beings?" Nian Ben was stunned.


    "Yes," the purple-robed man confirmed with a frown.


    Nian Ben nced at the mud bodhisattva, then back at Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, you''re incredibly bold. Hahaha, truly bold!" Nian Benughed strangely.


    "You''re notcking in courage yourself," Zhong Shan said dismissively.


    "Zhuanlun Hall, the Hall of Reincarnation, one of the Ten Halls. No one dares to touch it. The Zhuanlun Domaincks major powers precisely because they fear the Zhuanlun Hall. By the way, didn''t you release Father Guo not long ago? I heard his enemies are everywhere, but no one dared to kill him because he was sealed in the Zhuanlun Hall. You, Great Yin, are truly audacious, meddling with the Zhuanlun Hall and even wielding the Foulness of Beings!" Nian Ben gloated.


    Upon hearing Nian Ben''s words, Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    Father Guo? Wasn''t he left alone because the sages feared the karma of the former Great Zhou? No, there was something off back then. It seems there was more to it.


    The Zhuanlun Hall? One of the Ten Halls? This must be the main reason why the sages avoided it.


    "Mud Bodhisattva, take them down!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" the Mud Bodhisattva responded respectfully.


    As he spoke, the vast ck sea beneath him surged towards the three ancient immortals. Simultaneously, more ck water appeared from all directions, filled with the Foulness of Beings, assaulting Nian Ben and hispanions from every side.


    This was the Mud Bodhisattva''s first action after breaking the Zhuanlun Hall''s seal.


    The ck waves were overwhelming, leveraging the Foulness of Beings, the Mud Bodhisattva, though only at the celestial level, was able to contend with three ancient immortals.


    "Boom!"


    The endless ck water enveloped the three ancient immortals, creating massive internal shes. Nian Ben couldn''t believe it; the Foulness of Beings, which was untouchable and feared by all, was now wrapping around him.


    He had thought Luo Xingchen was Great Yin''s strongest, but now there was another powerful entity, the Mud Bodhisattva. How could Great Yin have such a formidable feng shui master?


    "Boom!"


    The three ancient immortalsbined their strength to break through the Foulness of Beings, looking at the Mud Bodhisattva with astonishment.


    "The Foulness of Beings can''t hold us, but you''re courting death. Anyone who maniptes the Foulness of Beings won''t live beyond a hundred years. You''re doomed!" Nian Ben sneered at the Mud Bodhisattva.


    The Mud Bodhisattva ignored Nian Ben. Seeing that the Foulness of Beings couldn''t restrain the three, he changed his hand seals. Suddenly, the ck water began to turn slightly red, emitting a strong stench of blood.


    The ck sea slowly turned into a blood sea, filling the air with a suffocating metallic smell.


    "The Foulness of Worries? The Foulness of Worries?" one of the purple-robed men eximed.


    "The Foulness of Worries?" Nian Ben shouted in shock.


    The blood sea stained the sky, making the space it touched sizzle, as if it were corrupting the very void. Countless blood-colored ghosts within the sea wed at Nian Ben and hispanions.


    "Impossible! How can a celestial level being control the Foulness of Worries? Why aren''t you dead?" Nian Ben couldn''t believe it.


    Clearly, Nian Ben had a thorough understanding of the Five Foulnesses, but the Mud Bodhisattva continually defied his expectations.


    Suddenly, a vast section of the blood sea surged towards the three. They moved quickly, dodging most of the attack, but one wrong move led one of them straight into another part of the blood sea.


    "Boom!"


    The purple-robed man was instantly enveloped by the blood sea.


    The Mud Bodhisattva''s eyes lit up. He extended his hand and made a grasping motion. Suddenly, a nearly invisible seal dropped from the sky, pressing onto the blood sea.


    "Boom!"


    A tremendous explosion shook the void, causing the world to tremble.


    The seal and the blood sea vanished, along with the purple-robed man enveloped by it.


    He disappeared?


    "You killed him?" the remaining purple-robed man asked in disbelief.


    "The Zhuanlun Seal, no wonder. No wonder you were acknowledged by the Zhuanlun Hall? The Envoy of Zhuanlun Hall?" Nian Ben said in shock.


    "You recognize the Zhuanlun Seal?" the Mud Bodhisattva asked, surprised.


    "The Ten Halls? The sixth hall has opened. The sixth hall, the Zhuanlun Hall, has opened?" Nian Ben said in horror.

 Chapter 924: Unifying the Realm of Reincarnation

    <h4>Chapter 924: Unifying the Realm of Reincarnation</h4>


    "Ten Halls? The Sixth Hall has opened, the Hall of Reincarnation has opened?" Nian Ben eximed in shock.


    "The Third Prince?" The ancient immortal in the purple robe frowned.


    "Run, quickly!" Nian Ben shouted.


    "Where do you think you''re going?" the y Bodhisattva said coldly.


    An endless sea of blood surged forth, causing the surrounding space to tremble slightly. The two ancient immortals flickered and vanished from their original positions, but the miasma of trouble engulfed them, leaving no escape.


    The y Bodhisattva''s pupils contracted, and with another incantation, a transparent seal reappeared in the void.


    "Boom������!"


    A thunderous explosion echoed as a massive hole was sted through the miasma and the sea of blood, allowing the two bloodied immortals to escape.


    Having witnessed the fate of the first ancient immortal, the two were much more cautious. Though severely wounded, they managed to flee.


    From now on, Da Zeng would be the deepest shadow in Nian Ben''s heart. Too terrifying!


    The two ancient immortals fled at an incredibly fast speed, beyond the reach of ordinary people.


    With a wave of his hand, the y Bodhisattva made the endless miasma recede into the void. The sky cleared.


    The y Bodhisattva swayed as he returned to the front of the Immortal Hall.


    "Sage King, I failed to detain the two of them. Please forgive me," the y Bodhisattva said solemnly.


    "One dead, two injured��you''ve done well," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Yes."


    "Ten Halls? The Sixth Hall has opened? What did Nian Ben mean by that?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled, looking at the y Bodhisattva.


    "Many records about the Hall of Reincarnation have been lost. Though shrouded in mystery, I managed to uncover a small part. ording to the information from my master, the ten halls form a unified system. If all ten halls open, a great change will ur in the underworld. From Nian Ben''s words, it seems five halls have already opened. If the remaining four open, a cataclysm will follow," the y Bodhisattva exined respectfully.


    "A cataclysm?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes."


    "In that case, you will oversee the Hall of Reincarnation as the headquarters of Da Zeng''s Celestial Observatory in the underworld," Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    "Thank you, Sage King!" The y Bodhisattva was ecstatic.


    He had long desired this position but hadn''t known how to ask. Now, with the Sage King''s decree, he felt a surge of excitement.


    "Xiao Wang!" Zhong Shan called.


    "At your service!" Xiao Wang immediately stepped forward.


    "The south is leaderless. It''s time to consolidate it all. I give you four years," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Xiao Wang responded promptly.


    The southern cities had long been infiltrated by Da Zeng''s people under Wang Jingwen''s orders. Consolidation was now a mere formality, with only a few cities needing to be taken by force. With their superior numbers and the enemy''sck of leadership, four years would be ample time.


    Nian Ben and the ancient immortal in the purple robe flew swiftly towards the Heavenly Gift Mansion.


    Along the way, Nian Ben''s face was filled with anger and frustration. They had been defeated, outmaneuvered by Zhong Shan once again.


    The Hall of Reincarnation? His subordinate had be an emissary of the Hall of Reincarnation?


    Both were gravely injured. The impact of the Seal of Reincarnation was terrifying. The first ancient immortal had been killed instantly, and though they had withstood the seal, their internal injuries were severe.


    Dayster, the two were nearing the Heavenly Gift Mansion.


    "The Seal of Reincarnation��you absorbed most of its power, and now your injuries are worse?" Nian Ben asked, offering several pills to the ancient immortal in the purple robe beside him.


    The ancient immortal''s face flushed with a painful red. His injuries were severe.


    "The power of the Reincarnation Seal is too overwhelming. Over the past few days, my injuries have not healed at all; they seem to be getting worse! I need to find a ce to retreat and expel the seal''s power from my body," the purple-robed man said.


    "We''re almost at the Heavenly Gift Mansion!" Nian Ben replied.


    Just as Nian Ben finished speaking, he suddenly stopped in mid-air, noticing that the gs of the Heavenly Gift Mansion had changed.


    Da Zeng?


    At the entrance of the Heavenly Gift Mansion stood a blue-robed man, holding a giant bow and aiming an arrow at the two in the sky.


    "Whoosh!"


    An arrow was released, causing the void to tremble as it passed.


    "Boom!"


    In front of Nian Ben, the purple-robed ancient immortal''s body was half-shattered by the explosion.


    The Heavenly Gift Mansion had been upied? Luo Xingchen?


    Nian Ben was horrified. Without a second thought for thest ancient immortal, he fled in a sh.


    Five dayster, at the southern edge of the Reincarnation Territory, Nian Ben stood on the sea, staring nkly at the Reincarnation Territory with a face full of sorrow.


    It''s gone. Everything is gone.


    The vast power of the Heavenly Gift Mansion hadpletely copsed in just a few years?


    From now on, the Reincarnation Territory would be entirely under Da Zeng''s control.


    "Roar������!"


    Unwillingness, resentment, sorrow, and fear��all these negative emotions enveloped Nian Ben. Yet, no amount of emotion could turn back time.


    With onest hateful nce at the Reincarnation Territory, Nian Ben gritted his teeth and turned south, flying swiftly towards the Wuxiang Territory. He knew that upon his return, he would face endless ridicule. But if he didn''t go back, this shame would never be erased.


    Nian Ben left, and in an instant, eighty percent of the southernnd of the Reincarnation Territory bore the name of Zhong.


    The forces surrounding Da Zeng in the north seemed to be in a dreamlike state. Originally, they had waited for a collision between Da Zeng and the Heavenly Gift Mansion, hoping to benefit from the chaos. But now, in the blink of an eye, truly in the blink of an eye, the power of the Heavenly Gift Mansion hadpletely vanished.


    In a celestial court hall, a ruler smashed a jade slip in anger, and the gathered ministers bowed their heads in silence.


    "What kind of intelligence is this? The southern part of the Reincarnation Territory has fallen? Nonsense, this is the mostughable false report I''ve heard in tens of thousands of years. Do you know the crime of deceiving the emperor?" the ruler roared.


    An elderly minister knelt below.


    "Sire, it''s true. Da Zeng has acted decisively and swiftly. In just a few years, they have indeed taken the south!" the minister said with concern.


    "I don''t believe it. Deceiving the emperor��how dare you deceive the emperor? Guards, take him out and execute him!" the ruler shouted in rage.


    "Spare me, sire! I speak the truth!" the old minister pleaded.


    But the ruler, in his fury, waved his hand, and the old minister was dragged out to be executed.


    Simr scenes unfolded in other courts. It was too sudden. Da Zeng was too terrifying.


    In the blink of an eye, the Heavenly Gift Mansion was gone?


    Da Zeng had made a powerful move, swiftly reiming the power of the Heavenly Gift Mansion. The news shocked the entire Reincarnation World.


    Almost everyone was incredulous at the news. Barbarians from a small world? Could there really be such powerful barbarians?


    Da Zeng had conquered the majority of the Reincarnation Territory and was continually consolidating its power. All surrounding dynasties were on edge, and even the major sacred grounds were now tense.


    Two yearster.


    The Manggu Sacred Ground, along with two other sacred grounds and a heavenly dynasty, announced their willingness to join Da Zeng and bow in submission.


    This news came too suddenly.


    Submit?


    No one knew that this was a scheme orchestrated by Yi Yan and the Manggu Sacred Ground, even enticing three other forces. But that was unimportant; the important thing was that this seemed like a signal. Soon, several other sacred grounds announced their allegiance to the Ming Sect. Another heavenly dynasty joined Da Zeng.


    The ambition of the Da Zeng Holy Court was clear. Unify the Reincarnation Territory?


    Struggling?


    After Zhao Suoxiang led an army to forcefully subdue a heavenly dynasty, the situation became even clearer.


    Of the remaining ten heavenly dynasties, three chose to leave the Reincarnation Territory, three submitted to Da Zeng, and four resisted but were utterly destroyed by Da Zeng''s thunderous means.


    Thus, in the 140th year since the creation of the world, the underworld Da Zeng, with an incredibly terrifying momentum,pletely unified the Reincarnation Territory.


    The Da Zeng Holy Court had officially established itself in the underworld.


    This momentum was unimaginable, a ferocity never seen before. In the Reincarnation Territory, almost everyone was in awe.


    Even though the major powers in the Reincarnation Territory were few, this was still extraordinary!


    Countless heavenly dynasties had fought for tens of thousands of years, yet none had achieved what Da Zeng did in just 140 years. Many had predicted the fall of Da Zeng, but no one had imagined that not only did Da Zeng survive, it unified the world in an instant!


    Countless people revered the Da Zeng Sage King. Such a sage king was the true master of the world.


    Many people rushed to join Da Zeng, to be part of this powerful force.


    With Da Zeng unified, the sea of luck over Changjing surged continuously. Countless golden dragons of luck circled, looking extremely majestic.


    In the yang world, in the Nine-Tailed Princess''s Mansion of the Taichu Holy Court.


    Zhong Shan sat in the courtyard of the Nine-Tailed Princess''s Mansion, reviewing the information collected over the years, his brow deeply furrowed.


    Soon, the Nine-Tailed Princess and Su Afo came to Zhong Shan''s courtyard.


    "Zhong Shan, what''s wrong? You''ve been frowning these past few days," Su Afo asked, puzzled.


    Zhong Shan handed over a list.


    The Nine-Tailed Princess also sat down and picked up a register in front of Zhong Shan.


    "Great Qin, Ying? What does this mean? You''ve listed it at the top!" the Nine-Tailed Princess asked, puzzled.


    "The list in Afo''s hand is of those who have already arrived in the Fengzhong Territory. The list in your hand is my spection of those who mighte," Zhong Shan sighed.


    "So many people? I''ve heard my grandfather mention it recently, saying that arge number of strong individuals are gathering from all directions. It seems rted to the Snake Queen''s Dojo?" Su Afo said.


    "The Snake Queen''s Dojo, the burial ground of Nuwa! Someone deliberately released the news, causing chaos in the Fengzhong Territory," Zhong Shan said.


    "Snake Queen''s Dojo? Nuwa''s burial ground? You mentioned it before, but besides us, who else knows?" the Nine-Tailed Princess frowned.


    "Who else could it be?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Simake Qing?" Su Afo and the Nine-Tailed Princess said in unison.


    "Sage Mozi would never leak it, only Simake Qing. Over a hundred years, Simake Qing has spread the news worldwide. His plot is not small," Zhong Shan said, frowning.


    "A plot?" Su Afo was slightly startled.


    "Yes. This event is known worldwide now, attracting countless strong individuals. It''s not just about the Snake Queen''s Dojo anymore. Perhaps the entire Fengzhong Territory will undergo a major reshuffle!" Zhong Shan said with certainty.


    Using Nuwa''s burial ground to incite chaos in the Fengzhong Territory? Perhaps this was the moment for Da Zeng to rise in the yang world. Zhong Shan felt a surge of excitement.


    <strong>Note: This volume is reaching its true climax, with at least five waves of continuous climaxes! First chapter, please vote!</strong>

 Chapter 925: The Arrival of Ying

    <h4>Chapter 925: The Arrival of Ying</h4>


    "What could be in Nuwa''s tomb?" the Nine-Tailed Princess asked.


    "Sage artifacts!" Zhong Shan replied with certainty.


    "Sage artifacts?" Su Afo and the Nine-Tailed Princess''s eyes lit up.


    "At least sage artifacts. From the look of things, there are far too many peopleing this time. Representatives from nearly every major force are arriving," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    "Yes, not only are the major forces from all over the worlding, but the top experts of the Fengzhong Territory will undoubtedly converge at the Snake Queen''s Dojo. By now, the dojo must already be teeming with powerful figures!" Zhong Shan confirmed.


    "You mean the Sage King will go too?" the Nine-Tailed Princess frowned.


    "Of course. Such a significant event��how could he not? This isn''t just about sage artifacts; it''s about the reshuffling of powers in the Fengzhong Territory. No one knows what lies ahead, so we must go!" Zhong Shan said with absolute certainty.


    "What about us? Should we leave now?" the Nine-Tailed Princess looked at Zhong Shan, her eyes full of inquiry.


    "Yes, it''s time. We must arrive early!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    Zhong Shan, Su Afo, and the Nine-Tailed Princess set off at great speed toward the Snake Queen''s Dojo.


    At Sima Qing''s mansion.


    Sima Qing looked at the head of the Sima family, Sima Yuan.


    "Father, the Snake Queen''s Dojo depends on you this time!" Sima Qing said respectfully.


    "Hmm, the Sima family has endured for so many years. The time hase. I will handle matters at the Snake Queen''s Dojo. As for you..." Sima Yuan looked at Sima Qing.


    "Rest assured, Father. I will handle everything perfectly!" Sima Qing said confidently.


    "Hmm, I trust you," Sima Yuan nodded in satisfaction.


    "Then I will await your triumphant return at Qingqiu."


    "Indeed!"


    In the Qingqiu Imperial Pce.


    The Taichu Sage King looked at Mr. Li and said, "This trip to the Snake Queen''s Dojo will be long and inconvenient. I''ll leave the affairs of Qingqiu in your hands."


    "Don''t worry!" Mr. Li nodded.


    The Taichu Sage King nodded and disappeared.


    Forces from all sides were heading toward the Snake Queen''s Dojo.


    The Snake Queen''s Dojo was located in the western part of the Fengzhong Territory.


    During the past hundred years, Zhong Shan had been hovering at the peak of the Ninth Heaven of Immortals, while Su Afo had reached the Great Immortal Realm thirty years ago.


    The three of them traveled as fast as possible, but it still took them half a year to reach the Snake Queen''s Dojo.


    The area around the dojo was already surrounded by countless powerful figures, all staring at the main peak in the distance.


    A massive mountain loomed overhead, shrouded in infinite merit, with countless figures of merit radiating brilliant light.


    Beneath the vast merit was the Snake Queen''s Dojo.


    The top of the mountain seemed to have been sliced off, leaving a huge teau filled with numerous pces. Many experts of the Snake Queen''s Dojo stood on the za, ring coldly at the countless powerful figures from all directions.


    Leading them was a man in a green robe with a handsome face, wielding a green longsword. The sword emitted a myriad of green sword auras, soaring into the sky and intimidating all around.


    "That''s Feng Xingyun Daojun of the Snake Queen''s Dojo. Aside from the Snake Queen herself, he holds the highest position in the dojo," the Nine-Tailed Princess said, pointing to the man in the green robe.


    "Feng Xingyun?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    He had learned about Feng Xingyun during his data collection. Feng Xingyun was a peerless genius of the Snake Queen''s Dojo, at the pinnacle of the Great Immortal Realm, just one step away from bing an Ancient Immortal. This wasn''t the critical point, though. The key was his surname. In the Snake Queen''s Dojo, only he bore the surname Feng. Nuwa, also known as Feng Lixi, shared the same surname.


    What was Feng Xingyun''s true identity?


    The valley and its surroundings were the territory of the Snake Queen''s Dojo. Many ces were protected by formations, but the outermost area was not. It was packed with powerful figures from all directions, both from within and outside the Fengzhong Territory. These forces varied in strength. The strong ones could seize a mountain peak, as if everyone was waiting.


    Zhong Shan was about to survey the various forces when a sudden scene caught everyone''s attention.


    Five figures flew towards the main peak at the center.


    Standing on the main peak, Feng Xingyun coldly watched the five approaching figures.


    "Feng Xingyun, move aside!" the leader shouted.


    It seemed everyone''s target was the grand hall at the center of the main peak. That hall appeared to be an entrance to a small world, simr to the Changsheng Realm in Zhong Shan''s small world, but the Snake Queen''s Dojo was peculiar. The endless merit wasn''t within the small world but on this main peak.


    "I''ll say it again: Lady Nuwa left a decree. Since we cannot prevent it, the Nuwa Realm will open. However, the time has not yete. We have one more month! No one is to trespass!" Feng Xingyun said sternly.


    "Trespass? Hmph, there are sage artifacts inside. One more month? Are you nning to refine the sage artifacts within that month? Dream on!" the leader scoffed.


    "Whoosh��"


    With a flick of Feng Xingyun''s green sword, a massive green sword scar mysteriously appeared in the air.


    "I won''t repeat myself. This line��anyone who crosses it dies!" Feng Xingyun said coldly.


    "Die? Ha! You''re just a Great Immortal. There are five of us. What can you do to us?" the Great Immortal sneered.


    In a sh, he stepped across the green line drawn by Feng Xingyun.


    "Buzz��"


    A sword hum echoed in the void. A green light shed, and countless sword auras suddenly shot out, carving terrifying streaks through the air, forming a swirling vortex of sword energy that looked extremely domineering. Feng Xingyun''s sword energy extended to ten thousand feet in length.


    "Boom��"


    With a loud crash, Feng Xingyun returned to his original position, while the Great Immortal in the air was sliced in half by Feng Xingyun''s sword and was further obliterated by the infinite sword rain, dying instantly.


    A one-hit kill!


    The eyelids of countless powerful figures outside twitched violently. A Great Immortal versus another Great Immortal? A one-hit kill?


    "Senior brother!" the remaining four Great Immortals cried out in fury.


    They charged forward, driven by anger.


    "Humph!" Feng Xingyun snorted, his hair slightly moving. He swung his green sword again, unleashing terrifying sword lights towards the four Great Immortals.


    This time, Feng Xingyun''s power seemed even more terrifying. With one swing, eight dazzling sword lights burst forth, each as powerful as the previous one.


    "Dare you��!"


    A loud roar echoed through the void.


    "Boom����!"


    A sh of red light and another sword strike suddenly intercepted Feng Xingyun''s attack.


    Feng Xingyun stopped his sword and coldly eyed the red sword and the red-robed man wielding it.


    The four Great Immortals who had crossed the line earlier were now drenched in cold sweat. In that brief moment, they had experienced the sheer terror of Feng Xingyun''s power. His one strike had locked them in ce, leaving them with no escape. The feeling of waiting for death was too horrifying.


    "Master!" the four addressed the red-robed man respectfully.


    Master? It was clear that the earlier charge by the five was under the red-robed man''s direction, but they hadn''t anticipated Feng Xingyun''s strength.


    "Boom!"


    Feng Xingyun and the red-robed man''s swords shed and separated.


    "Feng Xingyun, how dare you kill my disciple? If the Snake Queen''s leader doesn''t give me an exnation today, I will...!" the red-robed man said angrily.


    "You crossed the line," Feng Xingyun replied indifferently.


    "Ancient Immortal, Blood Sword King?" someone recognized the red-robed man from afar.


    Zhong Shan had no information on the Blood Sword King in his mind, and he didn''t need to know because he understood that the prelude hadn''t even started.


    "Haha! Crossed the line?" the Blood Sword Kingughed coldly.


    Ignoring him, Feng Xingyun swung his sword again. The Blood Sword King also swung his sword quickly, meeting the strike head-on.


    The two sword tips shed, and a torrent of blood waves surged around the Blood Sword King''s sword, while eight strange green currents circled around Feng Xingyun, resembling sword energy and strong winds.


    "Boom����!"


    The eight green currents, with immense force, reversed the blood waves, and the terrifying sword intent directly pressured the Blood Sword King.


    Their swords shed.


    "Ding!"


    "Boom����!"


    Blood waves, green currents, and endless sword energy enveloped that part of the sky. After a loud explosion, the blood waves and green currents gradually dissipated.


    Feng Xingyun still stood proudly in the air, holding his sword, while the Blood Sword King had been forced back beyond the line drawn by Feng Xingyun. His clothes bore eightrge shes, tattered and torn.


    Everyone understood��Feng Xingyun had won!


    The Blood Sword King, an Ancient Immortal, was defeated?


    That was an Ancient Immortal, a powerful swordmaster! The Blood Sword King was defeated by Feng Xingyun?


    "You, you have reached the Ancient Immortal stage?" the Blood Sword King frowned.


    Feng Xingyun ignored him and returned to the za. It was clear to everyone that the Blood Sword King no longer dared to challenge Feng Xingyun, and Feng Xingyun had indeed reached the Ancient Immortal stage.


    Though he hadn''t killed the Blood Sword King, he had used his power to warn everyone: no one should act rashly for the next month.


    The Blood Sword Kingcked the courage to step forward again. He knew that Feng Xingyun had spared him, but if he pushed his luck, Feng Xingyun wouldn''t hesitate to kill him as a warning.


    "Master, are you alright?" one disciple called out.


    "Your master just changed his style of clothing, what''s the big deal?" someone in the crowd mocked.


    "Hahaha!"


    "Hahahaha!"


    Failed to show dominance, turned into aughingstock. The Blood Sword King''s face flushed red with anger.


    He turned and flew back with his four disciples.


    Not long after, they stopped, and the Blood Sword King red coldly at his previous battlefield. During their brief absence, another group had taken their ce on the peak.


    "Get lost!" the Blood Sword King roared.


    From afar, Zhong Shan turned to look. On the peak, three figures stood, two of whom Zhong Shan recognized. The Sage King of Great Qin, Ying!


    Ying stood at the front, followed by two others. One was dressed in a ck robe,pletely covered, and the other was the Great Qin God of War, Bai Qi!


    The Blood Sword King was shouting at Ying?

 Chapter 926: The Dominant Great Qin

    <h4>Chapter 926: The Dominant Great Qin</h4>


    "Get lost!" the Blood Sword King roared.


    Having just been defeated by Feng Xingyun and bing aughingstock among the powerful, the Blood Sword King was furious. Returning to his previous foothold, he found it upied by three individuals.


    Each peak was a symbol of power and identity, and the Blood Sword King''s peak was no exception. Despite his defeat, he remained an Ancient Immortal, the pinnacle of strength in the Fengzhong Territory. Observers frowned at the neers but were mostly d to see the Blood Sword King challenged again.


    All eyes turned to the Blood Sword King.


    Ying looked at him with a deep, disdainful gaze, as if viewing an insect. Then, without a word, he dismissed the Blood Sword King from his attention.


    "Didn''t you hear me? Get lost!" the Blood Sword King bellowed, his rage blinding him to Ying''s dismissive look. He was determined to vent his anger, especially with so many witnesses.


    Ying ignored him, but Bai Qi, standing behind, spoke up.


    "The Sage King doesn''t wish to see you. You have five seconds to leave his sight, or I''ll ensure yourplete destruction," Bai Qi said coldly.


    His tone was ordinary, but the words carried an eerie sense of impending doom, sending chills down the spines of those who heard them.


    Arrogant!


    Bai Qi''s words were incredibly arrogant, leaving those around stunned. Who were these three to speak so boldly to an Ancient Immortal?


    "Hahaha! Destroy mepletely?" the Blood Sword Kingughed angrily.


    An Ancient Immortal, being threatened? Ridiculous!


    Eyes aze with fury, the Blood Sword King drew his blood sword, ready to reassert his ancient power.


    "Time''s up," Bai Qi said icily.


    "Complete destruction? I''ll obliterate you!" the Blood Sword King roared.


    He swung his blood sword, unleashing a torrent of blood waves and endless scarlet sword energy towards Ying and hispanions.


    Spectators sighed at the sight. Challenging the Blood Sword King in his rage? Foolish.


    The overwhelming blood waves made even the weaker observers shudder. They had mocked the Blood Sword King, but now saw the true might of an Ancient Immortal.


    Everyone moved back, avoiding the devastating attack.


    "Boom����!"


    A deafening explosion filled the sky with blinding white light, piercing cold seeping into every bone. The killing intent was overwhelming, illuminating the heavens.


    A streak of murderous light obliterated the blood waves, scattering the scarlet energy. As the white light faded, it revealed the aftermath.


    The Blood Sword King stood, stunned. His blood waves had beenpletely neutralized by a single strike from Bai Qi.


    The crowd was speechless. Bai Qi, a mere subordinate, had disyed power that defied belief.


    "Bai Qi," Ying finally spoke, his voice calm butmanding.


    Bai Qi stepped forward, his eyes like cold stars. "You were warned. Your defiance sealed your fate."


    With a swift, decisive motion, Bai Qi struck again. The Blood Sword King''s eyes widened in shock and realization.


    "Boom����!"


    A final, blinding sh of light and energy filled the sky. When it cleared, the Blood Sword Kingy defeated, his body broken and spirit shattered.


    Silence fell over the onlookers. An Ancient Immortal had been defeated with ease.


    "Who are they?" someone whispered, awe and fear mingling in their voice.


    Ying turned, his gaze sweeping over the assembly. "This peak belongs to Great Qin. Any objections?"


    None dared speak.


    The dominance of Great Qin was absolute, its power unrivaled. In that moment, the Fengzhong Territory''s power bnce had shifted, and the might of Great Qin was undeniable.


    The surroundings fell deathly silent, so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Those nearby felt as if they were suffocating, eyes wide with shock and their scalps tingling.


    In the air, the Blood Sword King still stood, but now a vertical red line appeared on his face, gushing blood. The nearby observers held their breath, while those further away watched in horrified fascination as the Blood Sword King''s blood sword was split in two from tip to hilt.


    Though the fierce light in the Blood Sword King''s eyes remained, he was already unconscious. As his body fell, it split in two, vertically bisected in an instant. His four disciples also plummeted, all dead.


    Before them, Bai Qi held a silver greatsword, exuding an icy chill. It was this sword that had cleaved the Blood Sword King in two. The four disciples had likely been killed by Bai Qi''s murderous aura.


    With a hiss, Bai Qi sheathed his sword.


    As the Blood Sword King and his disciples hit the ground, their bodies exploded into dust,pletely obliterated by Bai Qi''s killing intent.


    The onlookers swallowed hard.


    Bai Qi returned to stand humbly behind Ying. This disy left everyone deeply shaken. Such a fearsome subordinate��how powerful must the emperor be? And what of the figure cloaked in ck?


    Those who had recovered from their shock gazed at the trio with deep fear. The idea of contesting the peak was abandoned; challenging these three was tantamount to suicide.


    The area around Ying cleared, and it became apparent to everyone that entering Nuwa''s Realm would not be simple.


    It seemed as if Lady Nuwa had foreseen everything. The Nuwa Realm had already imed the life of an Ancient Immortal, suggesting untold dangers within.


    Far away, at Zhong Shan''s location.


    "My heavens, who are those monsters? Are they here to contest for the sage artifact? What are we even doing here?" Su Afo eximed, stunned by Bai Qi''s deadly strike.


    "We''re leaving!" Zhong Shan dered.


    With that, Zhong Shan took to the sky, followed by Su Afo and the Nine-Tailed Princess.


    Su Afo, bewildered, watched Zhong Shan''s path leading directly towards the trio. His eyes widened in rm.


    "Zhong Shan, what are you doing? You''re flying the wrong way!" Su Afo called out.


    "No, I''m not," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    "What are you nning? You want to contest the peak too? But not against them, Zhong Shan, don''t go any further!" Su Afo pleaded.


    Their ascent drew the attention of countless powerful figures. Seeing the trio fly towards Ying and hispanions, everyone was momentarily stunned.


    What are they doing? Are they also vying for the peak? Against those formidable figures?


    On a distant peak, the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect had witnessed everything. Seeing Zhong Shan take flight, he frowned deeply.


    "Zhong Shan? Is he looking for death?" the Purple Cloud Sect Leader murmured, bewildered.


    It wasn''t just the Sect Leader; anyone who recognized Zhong Shan was equally stunned. What was he nning?


    "That''s the Sage King of Da Zeng, Zhong Shan. I know him��he shone brightly in the Ao Lai Sea!" a man called out from afar.


    "But what is the Sage King of Da Zeng doing? Isn''t he courting death?"


    Amidst the perplexed gazes, Zhong Shan flew to stand before Ying.


    Everyone held their breath, anticipating another sh. But Ying did not greet Zhong Shan with the same disdain as before. Instead, he gave a faint smile.


    The world seemed to pause. Everyone was dumbfounded.


    "My eyes must be ying tricks on me. Did that fearsome figure just smile?" a dog demon eximed.


    "He smiled? That ruthless man smiled?"


    To everyone''s surprise, Ying offered Zhong Shan a friendly smile, which quickly faded.


    "Ying! Long time no see!" Zhong Shan greeted with a smile.


    Su Afo, sweating profusely, followed behind Zhong Shan, ready to flee at a moment''s notice. If that fearsome figure had said "leave," Su Afo could guarantee he would have turned and run immediately. But instead of a fight, the emperor offered a smile, leaving Su Afo momentarily stunned.


    The trionded on the peak.


    With a gesture from Bai Qi, a soundproof barrier enveloped the six of them. Outsiders could not hear their conversation.


    "The Da Zeng Holy Court��I knew I wasn''t wrong about you," Ying nodded.


    "Are you here for Nuwa''s relics?" Zhong Shan asked with a hint of doubt.


    Shaking his head, Ying replied, "No."


    No? Su Afo and the Nine-Tailed Princess looked incredulous. Why else would onee to the Nuwa Realm if not for sage artifacts?


    But Zhong Shan believed him. Ying had no reason to lie. If not for Nuwa''s relics, then what?


    Zhong Shan did not press further, knowing that Ying had already shared more than enough out of respect. Asking for more would be too much.


    Ying''s strength was increasingly awe-inspiring to Zhong Shan. Great Qin''s power was terrifying. If Bai Qi could effortlessly kill an Ancient Immortal, what about Ying?


    The cloaked figure behind Ying could only be guessed at��most likely, Guiguzi, the geomancer of Great Qin.


    This formidable trio implied that other powerful forces would also be present.


    Zhong Shan scanned the surroundings.


    Outside, many were puzzled by the sudden camaraderie between Zhong Shan and Ying, expecting a fierce confrontation instead.


    Zhong Shan noticed the Taichu Holy Court''s contingent on a distant peak, including the Taichu Sage King and the Chess Saint Chi Mei.


    Another peak held the Purple Cloud Sect Leader with many disciples, though Zi Xun and Cheng Baiyi were absent.


    Further, the Taiyi Sage King observed Zhong Shan with curiosity from another peak.


    On another summit, Yan Hui, a disciple of Confucius who had once tried to kill Zhong Shan, stood with a group of schrs, also watching Zhong Shan with interest.


    Between the peaks of Taiyi Sage King and Yan Hui, a thin man in a monk''s robe, apanied by a group of monks, nodded slightly at Zhong Shan.


    "That''s the ancient Buddha of the Burning Lamp Dojo in the Fengzhong Territory. He, like the Taiyi Sage King, was once a disciple of the Primordial Sage," the Nine-Tailed Princess exined.


    "Ancient Buddha of the Burning Lamp?"

 Chapter 927: Too Many Strong Beings

    <h4>Chapter 927: Too Many Strong Beings</h4>


    Zhong Shan surveyed the powerful figures around him. While he did not recognize most of them, he managed to identify a few familiar faces. Knowing who had arrived did not necessarily reveal their intentions, but it offered a sense of pattern amid the unknown.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan felt an unusual sensation, as if a gentle breeze had passed over him, leaving a slight pressure in its wake. Instantly, he knew what it was. Someone was trying to divine his fate.


    Thanks to the Heaven Chart gifted by Ying, Zhong Shan was well-versed in celestial calctions. He had advanced to the fourth level of the Heaven Art three years ago. This meant that unless a sage was divining him, he could sense it.


    Someone was divining him, and from the feeling, that person was nearby.


    Here?


    With a thought, Zhong Shan activated the Heaven Art, causing a slight tremor around him as his fate wavered. A faint mist enveloped him, disrupting the divination attempt.


    He then focused his gaze on a distant peak.


    On that peak stood numerous men in white robes embroidered with plum blossoms. Leading them was an old man with white hair and a white beard, who exuded an aura of otherworldly grace. His left hand was performing a divination, but suddenly, his fingers were flicked apart.


    The old man looked slightly surprised and nced in Zhong Shan''s direction.


    "Who is that old man with plum blossoms on his robe?" Zhong Shan asked the Nine-Tailed Princess.


    The Nine-Tailed Princess immediately recognized him.


    "That''s the Snow Plum Patriarch. In the past, when Lady Nuwa''s Star Pce was surrounded by Ancient Immortals, they were alerted by him. The Snow Plum Patriarch is a Fate Maniptor, extremely skilled and precise in divination!" she exined.


    "Snow Plum Patriarch?" Zhong Shan frowned, staring coldly at the old man.


    From afar, the Snow Plum Patriarch looked at Zhong Shan and nodded slightly, his smile friendly.


    Friendly? Zhong Shan didn''t believe it. Divining someone without permission was extremely rude and usually had ulterior motives.


    Though filled with anger, Zhong Shan maintained a polite facade and nodded back.


    "Snow Plum Patriarch? It seems he''s taken an interest in you," Ying remarked.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    He knew this matter wouldn''t end easily.


    As Zhong Shan continued to observe the various forces, they in turn watched him. Bai Qi''s earlier actions had drawn a lot of attention, even overshadowing Feng Xingyun''s presence.


    The Ancient Immortals no longer dared to rashly approach the main peak. Feng Xingyun''s strength was evident, and no one wanted to embarrass themselves. Moreover, the strongest in the Snake Queen''s Dojo was not Feng Xingyun but the Snake Queen herself.


    The Snake Queen was a figure shrouded in mystery. Despite Zhong Shan''s efforts, he had gathered no information about her.


    This was a grand gathering, with more and more people arriving, all awaiting the opening of the "Nuwa Realm."


    A month passed quickly. By then, the Snake Queen''s Dojo was surrounded by an enormous crowd of powerful figures, stretching as far as the eye could see.


    There were so many strong beings that it was impossible to know how many Ancient Immortals were present. The anticipation for Nuwa''s relics was immense. Naturally, such arge gathering led to chaos, with conflicts and killings urring daily. Only the peaks remained somewhat peaceful.


    "Feng Xingyun, the month is up. When will the Nuwa Realm open?" someone suddenly shouted from the crowd.


    Feng Xingyun, standing on the main peak, nced coldly at the speaker. His presence alone silenced the murmurs of the restless crowd. With a firm,manding voice, he announced, "The Nuwa Realm will open now. Prepare yourselves!"


    As he spoke, the air around the main peak shimmered, and a massive, ancient door began to materialize, radiating an aura of immense power and ancient wisdom. The anticipation among the gathered throng reached a fever pitch.


    The shout acted as a signal, causing nearly everyone to pause and turn their attention to the main peak. Feng Xingyun paid no heed and walked to the grand hall behind him.


    "Boom!" The hall doors swung open.


    Everyone knew that the Snake Queen''s leader was about to emerge.


    Stepping out lightly, the Snake Queen''s leader appeared, shrouded in a ck robe. No one could see her face. The robe was adorned with an intricate, multicolored serpent that seemed almost alive, slithering on the fabric.


    "Who is that?" Su Afo expressed surprise.


    "It must be her!" the Nine-Tailed Princess confirmed with certainty.


    Zhong Shan stared intently. The Snake Queen''s leader��was she really Mago?


    The same Mago who had faced all the heroes of the world at Ao Lai Sea? A powerful Fate Maniptor who seemed to know fox n techniques as well.


    Mago''s face remained hidden, but her figure captivated many onlookers with its allure.


    "Master," Feng Xingyun greeted respectfully.


    "You''ve worked hard," Mago said softly.


    "It was my duty," Feng Xingyun replied.


    Mago nodded and surveyed the crowd. She raised her delicate hand, moving it through the air. The multicolored serpent on her robe began to move, emitting vibrant rays of light that merged with her fingers.


    After a moment, Mago pointed to the sky, and a radiant serpent-like beam shot into the vast sea of merit clouds above.


    The immense merit cloud sea began to churn violently. Endless merit roared and swirled, gradually forming a vortex. In the center of this vortex was a void, through which all eyes gazed eagerly.


    "The Nuwa Realm! The Nuwa Realm is appearing! It was hidden within the merit clouds?" People eximed excitedly.


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous explosion echoed as the infinite merit dispersed, revealing a massive portal to another world in the sky.


    "Rumble!"


    Thunderclouds gathered and assaulted the portal relentlessly.


    No one rushed forward; instead, they looked to Mago.


    Gazing at the portal, Mago spoke with a tinge of sorrow, "The Snake Queen''s Dojo is no more. May the Lady rest in peace."


    Zhong Shan''s heart skipped a beat. Mago''s words, though veiled, suggested that the mission of the Snake Queen''s Dojo hade to an end. Guarding Lady Nuwa''s tomb was their final duty.


    As the crowd absorbed this revtion, a solemn atmosphere settled over them. They realized that the opening of the Nuwa Realm marked not just an opportunity but an end of an era. The sacred duty of the Snake Queen''s Dojo was fulfilled, and now the treasures and secrets of Nuwa''s Realmy ahead, waiting to be discovered.


    Was all of this Lady Nuwa''s n?


    "Whoosh!" A white figure shot into the sky, followed by many others.


    It was the Snow Plum Patriarch, leading his disciples as the first to enter the Nuwa Realm.


    With the precedent set, everyone else rushed in, unwilling to be left behind. The forces of the Taichu Holy Court, the Taiyi Holy Court, the Purple Cloud Dojo, the Burning Lamp Dojo, Yan Hui, and many others surged into the Nuwa Realm.


    Countless people ascended towards the sky, aiming for the realm created by Lady Nuwa herself.


    Ying, Bai Qi, and Guiguzi also soared upward.


    "Zhong Shan, let''s go!" the Nine-Tailed Princess urged.


    "Wait!" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Entering first didn''t guarantee finding the sage artifacts. If it did, the rest wouldn''t need to enter. Better to wait until Mago and her group made their move.


    Mago and her followers remained still, observing the chaotic flow of people for an hour until the crowd thinned out.


    Only then did the Snake Queen''s Dojo members take to the sky.


    As they ascended, Mago suddenly paused, ncing at a distant peak. But after a brief look, she continued into the Nuwa Realm with her disciples.


    Zhong Shan followed her gaze to the peak, where a white-robed youth stood, seemingly unhurried to enter the Nuwa Realm. He watched the Snake Queen''s Dojo with a detached expression.


    When Zhong Shan looked at him, the youth''s gaze met his. Zhong Shan felt a terrifying sense of beingpletely seen through, as if the youth''s gaze could pierce through all disguises and secrets. Who was he?


    Beside Zhong Shan, the Nine-Tailed Princess shivered.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "That youth... I can''t exin it," she replied, puzzled.


    "Which one?" Su Afo asked.


    "That one... wait, where did he go?" The Nine-Tailed Princess looked confused.


    The white-robed youth had vanished, disappearing as mysteriously as he had appeared.


    "What did he look like?" Su Afo inquired.


    "His appearance? I can''t seem to remember," the Nine-Tailed Princess frowned.


    Zhong Shan realized he, too, couldn''t recall the youth''s features. It was unnerving. Why couldn''t he remember?


    Zhong Shan''s heart pounded. How many powerful beings were present this time? The Nuwa Realm?


    Gazing at the sky, the Red Luan Pink Lotus on Zhong Shan''s forehead turned deep blue, signaling great misfortune, then switched to deep red, signaling great fortune. It fluctuated between the two, unpredictable and perplexing.


    Great misfortune and great fortune coexisting? How to interpret this?


    "Zhong Shan, are we going or not? Everyone else has gone!" Su Afo urged.


    "Let''s go!"


    The three of them ascended, reaching the massive portal and diving into another small world.


    A world created by a sage, even a small one, was beyond their visual reach.


    They found themselves in a vast forest. The strong had already flown off in all directions, while those with lower cultivation looked around, bewildered.


    "Zhong Shan, which way should we go?" the Nine-Tailed Princess asked excitedly.


    "Quick, we''re being watched!" Zhong Shan warned.


    "Watched? By whom?" she asked.


    "Judging by his attire, he''s one of Confucius'' disciples, probably under Yan Hui," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Yan Hui? An Ancient Immortal?" the Nine-Tailed Princess grew cautious.


    "Let''s move!"


    The three swiftly chose a direction and sped away.

 Chapter 928: The Battle with Yan Hui

    <h4>Chapter 928: The Battle with Yan Hui</h4>


    Zhong Shan frowned as he flew, but after only a thousand miles, he came to a halt.


    Landing on a mountain peak, the Nine-Tailed Princess and Su Afo stopped as well.


    "What''s wrong?" they asked, puzzled.


    "We can''t escape. Yan Hui has been lying in wait," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    Sure enough, as they stopped, numerous figures emerged from all directions, d in white Confucian robes, surrounding Zhong Shan. There were thousands of them��Confucius'' disciples were indeed numerous.


    The crowd didn''t attack but merely encircled Zhong Shan, preventing any escape. This drew the attention of nearby onlookers, but none intervened, not willing to cross Confucius'' lineage for Zhong Shan''s sake.


    Zhong Shan stared intently northward.


    In the northern sky, a figure appeared out of thin air��a man in arge blue robe. Yan Hui!


    He had once stormed the Lingxiao Heavenly Court but was ultimately forced back by the followers of Zhuangzi.


    Zhong Shan and Yan Hui locked eyes.


    "Zhong Shan? It''s been over a hundred years. How has your rusty copper root bone grown so fast?" Yan Hui said with a mix of surprise and disdain.


    "Yan Hui? Is Confucius here?" Zhong Shan asked in a grave tone.


    Confucius?


    The mention of the name made everyone''s pupils contract. Confucius, the Sage of Grand Schrs? Was heing too?


    From what Ying had told Zhong Shan, the opening of the Nuwa Realm was about more than just Nuwa''s relics. Those arriving were not here solely for the treasures. With the likes of Ying and the Snow Plum Patriarch present, it suggested something greater at stake.


    Were there sages involved?


    Zhong Shan had been specting until he saw the white-robed youth before entering the Nuwa Realm. He was now certain��a sage was involved. The youth''s unmemorable face was more than a simple trick.


    Memory is not easily altered by external influences. Zhong Shan had a clear recollection of the Snow Plum Patriarch''s white hair and beard, yet the youth''s features were impossible to recall. It wasn''t just him; the Nine-Tailed Princess couldn''t remember either.


    In Zhong Shan''s memory, only one person''s face was unmemorable: the sage''s corpse from the purple giant coffin, guarded by the Immortal-ying Sword.


    Zhong Shan knew that the one who had just appeared was a sage.


    The involvement of sages in the Nuwa Realm hinted atplexities far beyond mere treasure hunting.


    Yan Hui''s arrival raised the question: was Confucius here?


    Zhong Shan wasn''t sure, so he tested Yan Hui with his words.


    As expected, Yan Hui''s eyelids twitched uncontrobly.


    Both Confucius'' disciples and distant onlookers fixed their gaze on Yan Hui.


    "Hmph, how dare you utter my master''s name so carelessly? Zhong Shan, don''t try to sow discord. Today, you won''t escape. If you had stayed with Ying, perhaps I couldn''t have touched you, but now, you''re asking for it!" Yan Hui sneered.


    Zhong Shan deduced from this that regardless of whether Confucius wasing to the Nuwa Realm, he wasn''t currently with Yan Hui or couldn''t protect him.


    "Yan Hui, your master''s name is well known, but do you think it alone will intimidate me?" Zhong Shan said, standing his ground.


    "Hah! Arrogance will be your downfall," Yan Hui retorted.


    With a wave of his hand, the surrounding Confucian disciples tightened their encirclement. The tension in the air thickened as Zhong Shan, the Nine-Tailed Princess, and Su Afo prepared for a confrontation.


    Zhong Shan knew the stakes were high. Yan Hui''s confidence indicated that he had something up his sleeve. This battle would not be an easy one.


    As the disciples closed in, Zhong Shan''s mind raced, strategizing how to counter the imminent attack while gauging Yan Hui''s true intentions.


    The conflict was about to erupt, and the oue could shape the future of all those vying for the Nuwa Realm''s secrets.


    Upon reaching this conclusion, Zhong Shan felt a wave of relief. The fluctuating colors of the Red Luan Pink Lotus��alternating between red and blue��indicated uncertainty, leaving Zhong Shan to trust his own judgment.


    "Is that so? I don''t recall having any enmity with you. Why do you keep opposing me?" Zhong Shan asked calmly.


    "You killed Kong Lietian, and you im we have no enmity?" Yan Hui replied coldly.


    "Even so, there''s no need to say more. Come, let me see how capable you really are, Yan Hui!" Zhong Shan stepped forward boldly.


    "Zhong Shan, have you gone mad? He''s an Ancient Immortal!" Su Afo eximed.


    Not only Su Afo, but everyone around was also shocked. Had Zhong Shan lost his mind? No matter how strong he was, he couldn''t possibly be a match for an Ancient Immortal. This was suicide.


    Even Yan Hui was taken aback. He had nned to humiliate Zhong Shan before killing him, but now it seemed Zhong Shan was asking for death.


    "A mere Heavenly Immortal dares to challenge me?" Yan Hui said incredulously.


    With that, Yan Hui struck out with a hand, conjuring a massive spectral palm in the void. The hand radiated a terrifying aura, causing those nearby to feel a sense of overwhelming dread, let alone Zhong Shan himself.


    The mountain beneath Zhong Shan''s feet crumbled under the pressure.


    The Nine-Tailed Princess and Su Afo looked anxious. Although they couldn''t block an Ancient Immortal, they could escape if Yan Hui was distracted. Yet, neither fled. The Nine-Tailed Princess prepared to intervene, but Zhong Shan stopped her and Su Afo.


    Suddenly, a purple tail materialized in front of Zhong Shan, striking towards Yan Hui''s giant hand.


    The appearance of the purple tail filled the air with a murderous aura, and countless purple sword energies swirled around it.


    "Boom!"


    Yan Hui''s giant hand shattered instantly.


    Although it was a casual strike from Yan Hui, it shouldn''t have broken so easily unless met with equivalent Ancient Immortal power.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail!


    The massive Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail appeared out of nowhere, stunning the onlookers.


    The eight massive tails swayed, exerting immense pressure that scattered the Confucian disciples.


    "What is that?"


    "It looks like the mysterious beast of the Da Zeng Holy Court."


    "But why did it suddenly appear here?"


    "Has it been following Zhong Shan all along?"


    The crowd buzzed with spection.


    "Yiya, yiya��"


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail emerged, fully revealing itself to the world for the first time. Facing Yan Hui, it showed no fear, only excitement and a longing gaze.


    Seeing the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail''s expression, everyone was bewildered. Wasn''t this Zhong Shan''s beast? Why was it looking at Yan Hui with such longing?


    Only Yan Hui understood that the look wasn''t friendly. It was the look of a predator eyeing its prey, simr to how a child views a beloved toy.


    Of course, Yan Hui didn''t realize that the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail saw him not as a toy but as a delectable meal.


    "Yiya, yiya��"


    Zhong Shan no longer needed to keep the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail hidden. By now, it had grown strong enough to be trusted in battle. Under Zhong Shan''smand, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail joyfully charged at Yan Hui.


    The massive tails of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail exuded an overwhelming aura. As Yan Hui''s disciples rushed forward, they suddenly felt dizzy, mesmerized by the vibrant and hypnotic motion of the eight tails.


    "Boom!"


    A powerful strike from a Grand Immortal shed with one of the purple tails, but with a thunderous explosion, the Grand Immortal was obliterated, utterly destroyed, his form and spirit shattered by the endless sword energy.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail''s fierce onught left everyone stunned. In an instant, it had killed over a dozen of Yan Hui''s disciples with just the residual force of its attack.


    What kind of monstrous beast was this?


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail quickly reached Yan Hui, its terrifying tail striking at him once more.


    Yan Hui suddenly produced a bamboo scroll from his hand.


    The appearance of the bamboo scroll caused the space around it to hum. Characters materialized in the void, forming a barrier in front of Yan Hui.


    "Boom!"


    "Crash��"


    The purple tail pierced through the character barrier effortlessly, shattering Yan Hui''s first line of defense.


    "Yiya, yiya��"


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail continued its relentless pursuit of Yan Hui, ignoring everything else. Its ferocity was astonishing. If it were the size of a small dog, people would find it adorable and want to cuddle it. But at its enormous size, it was a terrifying force of destruction, deadly to anyone who encountered it, including Grand Immortals.


    The sheer power of the beast even made Yan Hui break into a cold sweat. What kind of creature was this?


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail chased Yan Hui relentlessly. Forced to act, Yan Hui finally unfurled the bamboo scroll��an artifact known as the Spring and Autumn Annals, possessed by Confucius'' disciples. However, this version was far superior to the one owned by Kong Lietian. While Kong Lietian''s Spring and Autumn Annals was a Heavenly Immortal artifact, Yan Hui''s was an Ancient Immortal artifact, far more powerful.


    The Spring and Autumn Annals unfolded, releasing a torrent of golden light towards the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. Yet, the golden light seemed ineffective, as the beast''s massive maw absorbed it.


    The colossal Spring and Autumn Annals blocked Yan Hui''s front. With his right hand pressed against the scroll and his eyes wide with intensity, he exerted his strength.


    "Rise!" Yan Hui shouted.


    The Spring and Autumn Annals surged towards the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, causing the void to tremble. This tremor wasn''t just a fluctuation of aura but a spatial disturbance, a testament to the immense power Yan Hui wielded.


    The terrifying pressure caused the ground below to sink, forcing distant observers to retreat even further.


    However, this formidable aura didn''t faze the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. Its purple tail struck the Spring and Autumn Annals with a deafening crash.


    "Boom!"


    The tremor ceased instantly as the momentum of the Spring and Autumn Annals was halted. The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail opened its jaws wide, attempting to bite the scroll.


    Seeing this, Yan Hui''s heart tightened. He quickly retreated with the Spring and Autumn Annals, putting a significant distance between himself and the beast.


    The Spring and Autumn Annals shrank back to Yan Hui''s hand, but now bore a small hole, created by the beast''s purple tail. From the hole, purple sword energy emanated.


    Seeing this, Yan Hui''s expression changed drastically. "The Immortal-ying Sword?"

 Chapter 929: Total Annihilation

    <h4>Chapter 929: Total Annihtion</h4>


    Seeing the sword energy, Yan Hui''s expression changed drastically. "The Immortal-ying Sword?"


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail didn''t wait for Yan Hui''s reaction, leaping towards him again.


    "Whoosh!"


    With a re, Yan Hui unfolded his world, causing both him and the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail to vanish instantly.


    The distant onlookers were astonished.


    "Where did Zhong Shan find such a beast? It''s so terrifying!"


    "A divine beast at the Ancient Immortal level? I wonder if it has matured yet. It could already be in the top eighty of the divine beast rankings!"


    "At least the top seventy-five!"


    "But it''s a pity. It entered Yan Hui''s ''world.'' The greatest sorrow of a divine beast is not having a ''world''."


    As the spectatorsmented the fate of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, a massive explosion echoed through the void, as if a giant hole had been torn in space. A huge blood-red tail emerged.


    "Boom!"


    Yan Hui and the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail reappeared before everyone.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was still excited, but Yan Hui was now pale with shock, holding a Spring and Autumn Annals that was missing half of its pages, apparently bitten off.


    Yan Hui''s face turned white as he looked at the remains of his artifact, then at the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    "Yiya, yiya..."


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail continued its cries, but only Yan Hui knew how terrifying they were. Just moments ago, those cries had resulted in half of his world being devoured by this monstrous beast.


    A beast capable of devouring worlds? Could someone tell me what this creature is? Its body was like rubber, repelling sword strikes, and its tail was as powerful as the Immortal-ying Sword.


    This wasn''t an imitation; Yan Hui could never forget the aura of the Immortal-ying Sword from the sage of Tongtian. Why was this happening?


    "Confucian disciples, form the Grand Array!" Yan Huimanded.


    "Yes!" the disciples responded.


    Just as the Confucian disciples began to form their array, the sky resounded with a massive roar. A huge cover with nine dragon bones, each adorned with a golden dragon, descended from the sky, trapping the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail within.


    "The Nine-Dragon Divine Fire Cover?" an onlooker eximed.


    "That''s the Nine-Dragon Divine Fire Cover of Taiyi Zhenren��no, Taiyi Sage King!"


    Everyone recognized the artifact and were shocked to see another Ancient Immortal involved.


    Trapping the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail?


    Zhong Shan, the Nine-Tailed Princess, and Su Afo hovered in the air.


    Below, within the Nine-Dragon Divine Fire Cover, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail struggled wildly as if it were being burned by an endless me.


    Seeing the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail restrained, Yan Hui''s face lit up with joy, then turned to anger as he red at Zhong Shan.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan looked towards another direction. A man in dragon robes suddenly appeared in the void.


    The Taiyi Sage King!


    Zhong Shan coldly stared at the Taiyi Sage King.


    "Taiyi Sage King, what are you doing? We have no enmity with you. Why target us?" the Nine-Tailed Princess shouted angrily.


    Yan Hui also looked at Taiyi with a hint of confusion.


    "Sage King of Da Zeng, Zhong Shan?" Taiyi said calmly.


    Zhong Shan, seemingly unsurprised, looked at Taiyi and said in a deep voice, "Has the Taiyi Holy Court already sent its troops?"


    "Yes, the Taiyi Holy Court hasunched an attack on Da Zeng. Not just us; the Taiji Holy Court has also sent its forces. Even the Taichu Holy Court might join in," Taiyi Sage King said.


    "You''re lying! Taichu would never attack the Da Zeng Holy Court!" the Nine-Tailed Princess immediately shouted.


    "Politics is something a little girl like you wouldn''t understand," Taiyi sneered.


    "Invasions from multiple courts, it seems inevitable. But it''s been over a hundred years since Da Zeng descended into the Great Thousand World. Invading now? Toote!" Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    "Toote? I don''t think so," Taiyi replied nonchntly.


    "If it wasn''t toote, why would you be in such a hurry to invade?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    Taiyi''s brow furrowed.


    "Even though I left Da Zeng, its institutions remain vignt. Over the past century, we''ve gathered the brightest talents from all over the world, even those from the Small Thousand World. You fear us!" Zhong Shan said disdainfully.


    "Fear? Hahaha, you think I''d be afraid of a mere Heavenly Immortal?" Taiyi scoffed.


    "If you weren''t afraid, why would you act now? Humph, after we leave the Nuwa Realm, Da Zeng will march upon the Taiyi Holy Court," Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    A trace of contempt shed across Taiyi''s face. "Just you? Humph, killing you today will just be for the sake of disrupting Da Zeng''s fortunes. If you seek death, you have no one to me but yourself."


    Yan Hui''s eyes shed with confusion and then a cold smile, realizing that Zhong Shan had many enemies.


    "Hahaha!"


    "Yiya����!"


    As Zhong Shanughed, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail''s voice suddenly echoed again across the heavens.


    Hearing this, Yan Hui''s face changed. That creature had already deeply terrified him. Wasn''t it trapped within the Nine-Dragon Divine Fire Cover?


    The distant spectators widened their eyes in shock.


    "What kind of beast is this?"


    "How did it escape?"


    The Taiyi Sage King''s face turned pale, his chest suddenly feeling tight. Below, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had broken free from the cover and, with a single bite, swallowed the Nine-Dragon Divine Fire Cover.


    An Ancient Immortal artifact swallowed in one bite? Even a taotie wouldn''t be this outrageous!


    "Zhong Shan, can you get me a pet like that?" Su Afo said enviously.


    Too dominant, just swallowing everything? The world''s greatest glutton?


    Yan Hui looked at Taiyi with disbelief, then at the half-eaten Spring and Autumn Annals in his hand, finally realizing the terror of the beast.


    Taiyi Sage King had made a grave mistake. He wouldn''t normally intervene, but the opportunity had seemed too good to miss. He had hoped to maximize the gains of the external invasion by a direct confrontation between kings. However, it had not gone as nned.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail''s eyes narrowed into slits, radiating a deadly aura.


    "Yiya!"


    With a loud cry, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail charged at the Taiyi Sage King. This old man had dared to attack it treacherously.


    The enormous tail swung with immense force, enveloping the sky with sword energy. Four of the tails formed a circle, trapping the Taiyi Sage King. The sky trembled as the sword energy enclosed the area.


    "The Immortal-ying Sword Formation?" the Taiyi Sage King shouted in shock.


    He hadn''t expected the beast to be so ferocious.


    On the other side, Yan Hui waved his hand, and countless Confucian disciples formed a massive four-sided array, encircling Zhong Shan and his group.


    Yan Hui was now cautious, focusing his attention on Zhong Shan.


    "Kill!" Yan Huimanded.


    Thousands of Confucian disciples unleashed their treasures��books, swords, knives, and brushes��each sending forth terrifying energy towards Zhong Shan. The energies merged mid-air, transforming into nine gigantic purple streams. As they approached, the space trembled, showing their power, equivalent to an Ancient Immortal''s strength.


    The terrifying energy surged towards Zhong Shan, causing his heart to tighten. He swiftly brought out the Emperor''s Diagram, enveloping himself, the Nine-Tailed Princess, and Su Afo. The nine purple streams were deflected, shooting back and killing the Confucian disciples from nine directions.


    "An excellent treasure!" Yan Hui eximed excitedly.


    Zhong Shan emerged, the Emperor''s Diagram hovering in front of him. He coldly stared at Yan Hui.


    "I didn''t wish to be enemies with the Confucian School, but you''ve left me no choice. If that''s the case, you have only yourselves to me!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    Meanwhile, in the Underworld, Zhong Shan''s shadow body had arrived near the Reincarnation Hall.


    "Mud Bodhisattva, give me the Vexation Miasma, the endless Vexation Miasma!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" Mud Bodhisattva responded without hesitation, summoning the vast, blood-colored Vexation Miasma from the east of the Reincarnation Hall.


    Unfolding the Emperor''s Diagram, the shadow body of Zhong Shan allowed the terrifying Vexation Miasma to pour in.


    "You''re still putting on airs as an emperor when you''re about to die? Confucian disciples, form the Grand Array and kill with me!" Yan Hui shouted.


    He needed to kill Zhong Shan quickly because Zhong Shan''s current strength far surpassed what he had shown at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Was Zhong Shan hiding his true strength, or had he grown this much?


    Either way, it was rming.


    Numerous powerful individuals rushed towards Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan pointed with the Emperor''s Diagram.


    "Boom!"


    The terrifying blood-colored Vexation Miasma filled the surrounding space, engulfing everyone within. The endless sea of blood was filled with countless struggling and writhing ghosts.


    "Ahhh!"


    "My treasure!"


    "Master, save me!"


    The Vexation Miasma brought endless screams from the Confucian disciples. The miasma''s power was overwhelming, enveloping everyone.


    The Vexation Miasma, used by the Mud Bodhisattva to fight Ancient Immortals, could entangle even them for a while. How could these Confucian disciples stand a chance?


    The distant spectators, terrified, retreated further, watching the sea of blood with a chill in their hearts.


    "Zhong Shan''s power? Who said he was just a Heavenly Immortal?"


    "What is that sea of blood? It''s terrifying! It''s the most dreadful sea of blood I''ve ever seen!"


    "It''s so vile, the surrounding space seems to be corroding!"


    The onlookers muttered in fear.


    Inside, the Confucian disciples suffered directly from the Vexation Miasma. Their treasures were all defiled. The terrible corrosion was unbearable.


    "Damn you, Zhong Shan!" Yan Hui roared, breaking open arge hole in the Vexation Miasma.


    But as he did, a chill ran down his spine.


    Toote!


    A massive mouth swallowed Yan Hui and his treasures whole.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had returned.


    With a flick of the Emperor''s Diagram, Zhong Shan retracted the endless Vexation Miasma.


    The ground sank ten feet, and in the void, all the Confucian disciples had vanished. Yan Hui was gone, the Taiyi Sage King was gone, and the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had disappeared as well.


    Only Zhong Shan, Su Afo, and the Nine-Tailed Princess remained.


    The distant onlookers were stunned. From this day forward, the Fengzhong Territory would never forget Zhong Shan''s name. He had annihted thousands of Confucian disciples, killed the Ancient Immortal Yan Hui, and vanquished the Taiyi Sage King.


    Zhong Shan had shown his true prowess in this battle.

 Chapter 930: The Shattering of the Immortal Monument

    <h4>Chapter 930: The Shattering of the Immortal Monument</h4>


    Standing in the air, Zhong Shan cast a cold gaze over the distant onlookers. Under his stern eyes, nearly everyone felt a chill run down their spines, unable to meet his stare.


    Those who had once thought Zhong Shan weak now felt a deep, chilling fear. If this was considered weak, then what were they?


    Thousands of Confucian disciples, two Ancient Immortals, all obliterated in less than a tea break? Such power went beyond mere strength.


    Terrifying Zhong Shan.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shanmanded. He and hispanions shot off in a chosen direction.


    It was only after Zhong Shan had left that most of the onlookers breathed a sigh of relief. So this was Da Zeng''s Zhong Shan?


    He was so powerful? Why was he allied with the Taichu Holy Court?


    In a distant forest, in a concealed mountain recess, stood three figures: Ying, Bai Qi, and Guiguzi.


    "Da Zeng''s Zhong Shan has finally shown his true dominance. This is the Zhong Shan we knew from the Small Thousand World," Bai Qi said, nodding.


    "No, he has always been that Zhong Shan. He just had too many concerns before, and his power wasn''t enough to fully disy his dominance," Ying replied calmly.


    "Not enough to disy his dominance? Are you saying that in these past hundred years, Zhong Shan has gained that power? He no longer needs to be cautious?" Bai Qi asked, surprised.


    "His actions speak volumes. He no longer needs to be cautious. The Da Zeng of old is back," Ying said.


    "Are you implying that Zhong Shan will return to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court and take control of Da Zeng again?" Bai Qi asked, frowning.


    "That is inevitable," Guiguzi said in a deep voice.


    "Sir, do you have any insight into Zhong Shan''s Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail?" Ying asked calmly.


    "Not yet, but I am certain it is one of the top eighteen divine beasts in the rankings," Guiguzi said with confidence.


    "One of the top eighteen? But its power doesn''t seem to match..." Bai Qi said, frowning.


    "That''s because the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail hasn''t reached its peak yet," Guiguzi said seriously.


    "Zhong Shan is truly fortunate to have subdued this beast in the Small Thousand World," Bai Qi nodded.


    "Fortunate? If it were merely luck, Zhong Shan wouldn''t havee this far," Ying shook his head.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," Bai Qi replied respectfully.


    "Let''s go," Ying said calmly.


    The three figures stepped forward and vanished.


    Zhong Shan''s battle, perhaps the first significant fight in the Nuwa Realm, had drawn the attention of Ying and others. In another mountain recess stood an elderly man with white hair and a white beard: the Snow Plum Patriarch.


    Behind the Snow Plum Patriarch stood a dozen disciples, all respectfully watching him.


    The Snow Plum Patriarch made calctions with his fingers for a while, then lowered his hand, frowning with a slight sigh.


    "Master, are Taiyi and Yan Hui really dead?" a disciple asked, frowning.


    "They are dead. That beast is incredibly powerful," the Snow Plum Patriarch said with a sigh.


    "Really dead? Those were Ancient Immortals, gone in less than a tea break?" the disciple asked, shocked.


    "That divine beast is unique. It might be one of the top eighteen divine beasts in the ancient rankings," the Snow Plum Patriarch said with admiration.


    "A divine beast in the top eighteen? This Zhong Shan, truly..." the disciple was stunned.


    "Master, what was that sea of blood just now? Why did it have such a heavy aura of misfortune?" another disciple asked, frowning.


    The Snow Plum Patriarch looked contemtive for a moment. "The sea of blood is a manifestation of immense grievances and malicious energy. It''s a powerful weapon that can even deter Ancient Immortals. Zhong Shan''s use of such a technique shows his deep understanding and control over these forces."


    The disciples exchanged nervous nces. The presence of such formidable powers and beings in the Nuwa Realm only heightened the tension and anticipation for the unfolding events.


    "The Vexation Miasma, one of the Five Impurities of Heaven and Earth!" the Snow Plum Patriarch confirmed.


    "Oh?"


    "There''s no doubt. I have traveled through the Underworld and visited the Ten Halls. This is indeed the Vexation Miasma. Zhong Shan is no ordinary person," the Snow Plum Patriarch said, frowning.


    "Zhong Shan is so strong. Will he affect your ns, Master?" another disciple asked.


    "Him? Not quite," the Snow Plum Patriarch shook his head.


    "That''s good to hear."


    "Let''s go. It''s time to explore this Nuwa Realm," the Snow Plum Patriarch instructed.


    "Yes!"


    The group vanished from their spot.


    Zhong Shan, along with Su Afo and the Nine-Tailed Princess, flew rapidly in one direction. They found a secluded valley where Zhong Shan meditated for an hour. During the battle, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had consumed two Ancient Immortals and two Ancient Immortal artifacts. This led to another increase in Zhong Shan''s cultivation, nearing saturation.


    "Boom!"


    He broke through to the tenth level of the Heavenly Immortal stage, achieving the Heavenly Immortal Great Perfection.


    Zhong Shan frowned, realizing a troubling fact. The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had consumed the equivalent of four powerful Ancient Immortal artifacts, yet this had barely been enough for a single breakthrough. This indicated that consuming Ancient Immortal artifacts would no longer be effective for his cultivation growth.


    Wiping the sweat from his brow, Zhong Shan thought, Ancient Immortal artifacts are no longer useful?


    After an hour of closed-door cultivation, Zhong Shan stepped out, retrieved his pce with a flip of his hand, and faced hispanions.


    Su Afo and the Nine-Tailed Princess no longer appeared excited; instead, they wore expressions of deep concern.


    "Zhong Shan, are you leaving?" the Nine-Tailed Princess tentatively asked.


    During Zhong Shan''s meditation, the two had discussed his disy of power. It seemed like a sign, a premonition that Zhong Shan was no longer bound to Taichu. Would he still remain as a hostage?


    "The Taichu Holy Court stood by me when I needed it most. I, Zhong Shan, will not turn against them. I will not harm the Taichu Sage King. If needed, I will help him. However, after leaving the Nuwa Realm, I may return to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. You are wee to stay there for a while if you wish," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Although disappointed, they understood that this was the best oue.


    "Is Taiyi really dead?" the Nine-Tailed Princess asked.


    "He''s dead. I believe the Taiyi Holy Court is now in chaos. Taiyi was good at umting virtue and achievements, but not suitable for governance," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    Zhong Shan was certain the Taiji Sage King had also been present but chose not to act. His strategy and shrewdness far surpassed Taiyi''s.


    In the southern Fengzhong Territory, at the capital of the Taiyi Holy Court.


    "Boom!"


    A massive explosion echoed through the sky, drawing everyone''s attention towards the capital.


    "Roar!"


    A mournful dragon''s cry reverberated through the sky above the Qi Luck Cloud Sea, spreading throughout the Taiyi Holy Court. Everyone felt an inexplicable sadness, as if something vital had been lost.


    "Boom!"


    The Qi Luck Cloud Sea roared, and fortune was draining away rapidly.


    "The Sage King!"


    Officials and citizens of the capital knelt, gazing at the slowly dissipating Qi Luck. Everyone knew that their Sage King had fallen.


    In the northeastern part of the Fengzhong Territory, within Qingqiu.


    Inside the Sima Residence.


    Sima Qing clutched a bamboo cane, frowning at the sky, his heart surging with emotions.


    Before him stood a man, his brow deeply furrowed.


    "Young Master, the Taiyi Sage King has died. What now?" the man asked worriedly.


    "The Nuwa Realm is too dangerous. The Taiyi Sage King died on the first day of its opening?" Sima Qing nodded.


    "The Patriarch also went in. What if...?" the man asked, concerned.


    "Don''t worry. My father is fine; his life token is still intact!" Sima Qing reassured him.


    "Yes!"


    "The immediate priority is Qingqiu. Uncle Eight, our Sima family has been preparing for so many years. We cannot afford any mistakes now!" Sima Qing said solemnly.


    "Rest assured, Young Master!" the man replied seriously.


    "Good."��


    At the same time, in the Fengzhong Territory, within Da Zeng, at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    In the Long Life Hall of the imperial court.


    No one dared to touch the Nine-Dragon Heavenly Throne in the Long Life Hall, for only one person could sit on it, and only that person was worthy.


    On the step below the Nine-Dragon Heavenly Throne, there was a purple throne.


    Ministers stood respectfully. On the purple throne sat a man in a purple dragon robe. The dragon robe had only four ws, symbolizing a prince. This was Prince Zichen, Shui Wuhen, of the Da Zeng Holy Court.


    Sitting on the purple throne, Shui Wuhen exuded an aura of authority. As the regent of Da Zeng in Zhong Shan''s absence, his presence had grown considerably.


    On the left, at the head of the ministers, stood Prime Minister Shui Jing. On the right, at the head of the generals, stood General Lin Xiao.


    "Reporting to Prince Zichen, all one hundred and eight Immortal Monuments across the four corners of Da Zeng have been destroyed. Armies are steadily advancing into ournds; the invading forces are formidable," Shui Jing reported with concern.


    The ministers frowned deeply.


    "Listen carefully, everyone. From today, each of you must look up at our Da Zeng Qi Luck Cloud Sea every morning, noon, and night. This is our pride. The Sage King protects us. As long as our Qi Luck remains, we are the proud ministers of Da Zeng. The Immortal Monuments have been destroyed? Every soldier of Da Zeng is a living Immortal Monument. Da Zeng will never fall. Anyone who dares to trample upon Da Zeng will pay the price!" Shui Wuhen dered solemnly.


    "Yes!" the ministers replied earnestly.


    "The Sage King will return. We have ovee many hardships in the Small Thousand World; this time is no different. Lin Xiao!" Shui Wuhen called.


    "Here!" Lin Xiao responded.


    "You are in charge of Da Zeng''s armies. You willmand this battle. Whoever you need, I will arrange for them. Anyone, even the Prime Minister or myself, if it benefits Da Zeng, we will follow your orders!" Shui Wuhen said seriously.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao nodded respectfully.


    In thend of Da Zeng, the battle raged as the Immortal Monuments were broken, and every city had to fight back against the invaders with all their might.


    Meanwhile, everyone was thinking about the Sage King. When would he return?

 Chapter 931: The Misfortune of Sima Zongheng

    <h4>Chapter 931: The Misfortune of Sima Zongheng</h4>


    Zhong Shan, apanied by his divine beast, annihted the Ancient Immortals Yan Hui and Nuzi, along with thousands of Confucian disciples. This news spread throughout the Nuwa Realm within two days.


    Zhong Shan''s sudden disy of power left many in disbelief. After all, the rumors imed he was only at the Heavenly Immortal level. How could he possibly have wiped out two Ancient Immortals in such a short time?


    However, Zhong Shan''s strength wasn''t the main focus for many. Finding Nuwa''s treasures was still the top priority.


    Zhong Shan, along with Su Afo and the Nine-Tailed Princess, wandered around the Nuwa Realm. It was their first time here, and Zhong Shan seemed to be casually observing the terrain, taking it all in.


    The Nuwa Realm was immense, a testament to a sage''s power. It took Zhong Shan two whole months to get a rough idea of thendscape. Afterward, he found a ce to stop.


    The terrain was divided into eight distinct areas: some were vast oceans, others deserts; some were constantly struck by lightning, while others were battered by fierce winds.


    "Eight Trigrams?" Zhong Shan frowned, realizing the world resembled a gigantic Eight Trigrams formation.


    "Zhong Shan!" the Nine-Tailed Princess suddenly called out.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "The Sage King seems to be in trouble. Can you help...?" she asked, looking at Zhong Shan with a hopeful expression.


    "Trouble? How do you know?" Su Afo asked, perplexed.


    "What kind of trouble?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    The Nine-Tailed Princess hesitated, then made up her mind. "The Sage King found the broken Qiankun Cauldron!"


    "What? Princess, don''t talk nonsense. How could you know about the Sage King''s situation while you''re here?" Su Afo eximed.


    Ignoring Su Afo, the Nine-Tailed Princess looked at Zhong Shan with certainty.


    "Lead the way," Zhong Shan said, frowning slightly.


    "Alright!" She immediately took the lead.


    Su Afo was bewildered. "What''s going on? Why is the Princess acting so mysteriously?"


    "What''s the situation now?" Zhong Shan asked while flying.


    "The Sage King, the Demon Chess Sage, and Sima Yuan, the head of the Sima family, have found a safe ce. However, when they discovered the Qiankun Cauldron, its radiant glow was seen by a group of other strong individuals who are now pursuing them," the Nine-Tailed Princess exined.


    "Princess, are you telling a story? How can you know this as if you saw it with your own eyes? You''ve been with us these past two months!" Su Afo said, exasperated.


    Zhong Shan didn''t seem bothered. After all, he could also recount events from the Underworld.


    "So they are temporarily safe?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "For now, yes. But we don''t know when those people might catch up. The Qiankun Cauldron, though broken, is still a precious treasure of Nuwa," the Nine-Tailed Princess replied.


    Su Afo stopped questioning and fell silent. He had asked multiple times, and the Nine-Tailed Princess had remained tight-lipped. There was no point in pressing further.


    The three of them flew at high speed. Five dayster.


    "We''re almost there, just up ahead!" The Nine-Tailed Princess showed a hint of joy on her face.


    "Wait, hold on!" Zhong Shan suddenly stopped, his brows furrowing.


    "What''s wrong?" Su Afo asked.


    Zhong Shan looked into the distance where a fierce battle seemed to be taking ce. The ground was littered with corpses, all dressed in the attire of the Taichu Holy Court.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan, Su Afo, and the Nine-Tailed Princess all instinctively headed towards the battlefield.


    As they approached, they saw sand and stones flying, and thick smoke covering the area, indicating an intense fight. In the nearby forest, the smoke seemed to form a massive and mysterious array.


    "Boom!"


    A loud explosion sent a powerful shockwave through the area, dispersing much of the smoke.


    "The Sima family? Sima Zongheng?" Su Afo said, puzzled.


    At the center of the battlefield, Sima Zongheng stood atop a massive, hundred-zhang beast, sweat pouring down his forehead. Behind him, eight strong Sima family members were confronting a white-robed man.


    The white-robed man stood on another hundred-zhang beast, this one looking like a dog but with a single vertical green eye on its head. The beast''s white fur made it look strangely beautiful and ominous.


    "That''s... the 37th-ranked divine beast? The Reverse Flow Beast?" the Nine-Tailed Princess recognized it immediately.


    The white-robed man smirked at Sima Zongheng.


    "What do you want? I, Sima Zongheng, have never provoked you!" Sima Zongheng said, frustrated. It was an absolute case of unprovoked disaster. This man, along with his beast, had suddenly attacked. While their strengths were simr, the Reverse Flow Beast was overwhelmingly powerful. It had easily broken the formation Sima Zongheng''s subordinates had just set up. What did he want?


    "Sima Zongheng? Perfect. Finding you means I can find him," the white-robed man said with a wicked grin.


    "Who are you looking for?" Sima Zongheng was speechless.


    "I''m looking for Zhong Shan," the white-robed man replied.


    Sima Zongheng was on the verge of coughing up blood. Looking for Zhong Shan? What did that have to do with him?


    "Zhong Shan isn''t here! You''ve got the wrong person!" Sima Zongheng shouted.


    "Impossible. My master, the Snow Plum Patriarch, never miscalctes. He said capturing you would make Zhong Shan appear immediately," the white-robed man said confidently.


    Sima Zongheng felt a surge of frustration in his chest.


    "So, surrender now, and you''ll suffer less," the white-robed man said, brimming with confidence.


    "Too much! This is too much!" Sima Zongheng roared.


    The massive beast beneath Sima Zongheng charged furiously at the white-robed man, while Sima Zongheng and his eight family members rushed towards him as well. This was infuriating! Even the most patient person couldn''t tolerate this, especially since this trouble was caused by Zhong Shan.


    "Roar!"


    The Reverse Flow Beast opened its mouth, unleashing a powerful airflow that sted the giant beast backward.


    At that moment, Sima Zongheng drew arge sword and shed it, sending a torrent of sword energy towards the white-robed man with the momentum of a celestial river.


    "Hmph!" The white-robed man sneered.


    Suddenly, the Reverse Flow Beast''s single eye glowed green, and the terrifying sword energy reversed its flow. The immense force seemed to be retracted in an instant.


    Seeing this, Sima Zongheng''s frustration turned into desperation. His attacks were being countered effortlessly, and the Reverse Flow Beast was proving to be an overwhelming adversary.


    The seven figures in the air were suddenly enveloped by a green light.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan, Su Afo, and the Nine-Tailed Princess arrived nearby and witnessed this shocking scene.


    Under the green light from the Reverse Flow Beast''s eye, the nine men showed expressions of extreme terror.


    "Ahhh!"


    Except for Sima Zongheng, the others screamed in pain. One of them even had his hair turn white instantly.


    Although Sima Zongheng didn''t scream, he was equally horrified. He realized his cultivation was reversing.


    From Great Immortal Realm! To Heavenly Immortal Realm! To Earthly Immortal Realm! To the Sky Extreme Realm! To the Emperor Extreme Realm! To the Nascent Soul Stage!


    Sima Zongheng discovered it wasn''t a dream; it was real. The Reverse Flow Beast? It was said to be able to reverse attacks, but could it also reverse cultivation?


    How could this be?


    "Roar!"


    Sima Zongheng let out a mournful cry. The eight people behind him had all reverted to mortal status, looking old and frail, as if they were near death.


    "Boom!"


    The green light disappeared, and Sima Zongheng, now at the Golden Core stage, fell from the sky. The massive beast under him rushed over just in time to catch him, while the other eight fell to the ground and died instantly.


    "My master was right; Zhong Shan dide!" The white-robed man turned to look at Zhong Shan.


    Sima Zonghengy on the beast''s head, blood spewing from his mouth in frustration. This was beyond absurd. Worse than an unprovoked disaster, this was all because of Zhong Shan. Just to find Zhong Shan? Couldn''t they have just asked? Now all his subordinates were dead, and his cultivation had pitifully reverted to the Golden Core stage. What was this?


    Turning his head, Sima Zongheng indeed saw Zhong Shan flying towards him. Looking at Zhong Shan, Sima Zongheng couldn''t help but spew more blood. Zhong Shan was a jinx. Every time he encountered Zhong Shan, he suffered. Now, even before Zhong Shan arrived, he had suffered this misfortune.


    God, what did I do to deserve this? Sima Zongheng silently screamed in his heart.


    Zhong Shan looked at Sima Zongheng speechlessly. Then he cautiously observed the white-robed man, especially the Reverse Flow Beast at his feet.


    Reversing time? It was simr to Luo Xingchen''s supernatural ability. Time maniption?


    No, this might be the Reverse Flow Beast''s limit. Otherwise, it wouldn''t be ranked only thirty-seventh among divine beasts.


    After reversing Sima Zongheng and his group, the Reverse Flow Beast seemed slightly fatigued, indicating that this ability consumed a lot of its energy.


    Snow Plum Patriarch couldn''t directly calcte Zhong Shan, but as a fate maniptor, he could calcte others to indirectly determine Zhong Shan''s whereabouts.


    "You were looking for me?" Zhong Shan frowned at the white-robed man.


    "Yes, I am. Or rather, I''m looking for your divine beast!" the white-robed man replied with an evil grin.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "My master said you''re just a Heavenly Immortal, but your beast can devour Ancient Immortals even in its juvenile stage. You''re just a Heavenly Immortal; you don''t deserve it. Hand over the beast, and I might spare your life," the white-robed man said.


    He wants to take the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail? And so directly?


    "Did the Snow Plum Patriarch send you?" Zhong Shan frowned. The Snow Plum Patriarch wouldn''t typically provoke him.


    "Hmph, capturing a divine beast doesn''t need my master''s instructions. Zhong Shan, I advise you to hand over the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail now, or else Sima Zongheng here will be your example!" the white-robed man threatened coldly.


    Sima Zongheng, lying on the beast, was so frustrated he spat another mouthful of blood. This was beyond infuriating!

 Chapter 932: Expansive Foundation

    <h4>Chapter 932: Expansive Foundation</h4>


    Zhong Shan frowned as he looked at the powerful Reverse Flow Beast. While his Yang aspect was the main body and the Yin aspect was a shadow form, this reversal ability would be no threat to the shadow form, which could regain its cultivation instantly. But what about his main body?


    Zhong Shan''s cultivation had note easily, but fearing the Reverse Flow Beast was an overstatement. He had more than one way to eliminate it.


    "Did you set up this array? You''ve put in quite some effort to deal with me!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Array?" The white-robed man looked slightly puzzled.


    In the distance, there was indeed a massive formation shrouded in mist, looking extremely mysterious.


    Seeing the man''s expression, Zhong Shan''s face changed as he nced at Sima Zongheng. Although Zhong Shan had never seen this formation before, having spent so much time with Ni Bodhisattva and the others, he could recognize it as a feng shui array.


    A feng shui array? Did Sima Zongheng set it up?


    "Where is the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail?" the white-robed man demanded coldly.


    "In deference to the Snow Plum Patriarch, I''ll let you leave now if you go. I won''t pursue this matter," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    The Snow Plum Patriarch was a Grand Immortal, and Zhong Shan didn''t want to provoke him unnecessarily. There was no need to make enemies everywhere.


    "Hmph! If that''s the case, I''ll subdue you first and then interrogate you slowly!" the white-robed man retorted coldly.


    Without further ado, the white-robed man gave the Reverse Flow Beast themand. Its forehead emitted arge amount of green light, which shot rapidly towards Zhong Shan and hispanions.


    "Move!"


    Zhong Shan ced his palms on the Nine-Tailed Princess and Su Afo, sending them flying out of the green light''s range. However, they were still hit by a sh of the light.


    "My cultivation... I''ve reverted to the Heavenly Immortal stage!" Su Afo eximed.


    "So have I!" the Nine-Tailed Princess echoed.


    They managed to evade most of the green light, but their cultivation levels still dropped by one stage. Zhong Shan, however, was at the forefront.


    Zhong Shan summoned his Emperor Map, and the green light was reflected back. But the Reverse Flow Beast controlled it again, directing it back towards Zhong Shan. The Emperor Map seemed ineffective, as the green light circled back to envelop Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s expression changed. The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was about to emerge, but he suddenly stopped and retracted the Emperor Map. He had noticed something peculiar: the green light wasn''t as terrifying as he had imagined. Although arge amount of energy was being emitted from his body, his cultivation level hadn''t dropped.


    Or rather, Zhong Shan''s cultivation was declining very slowly.


    Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback. His cultivation had advanced slowly, but could it be that it also regressed slowly?


    "Zhong Shan!" Su Afo and the Nine-Tailed Princess cried out in rm from a distance. Zhong Shan was fully enveloped in the green light.


    Seeing Sima Zongheng''s miserable state and then looking at Zhong Shan, the two were extremely worried.


    A "zzz zzz" sound emanated from Zhong Shan''s body, but his cultivation remained at the tenth level of the Heavenly Immortal stage.


    "What is this? Why is it so slow?" the white-robed man eximed in shock.


    He still couldn''t see through Zhong Shan''s cultivation, which meant Zhong Shan was still at the Heavenly Immortal stage or above. Could there be a problem with the green light? But that couldn''t be right; the cultivation of the two people Zhong Shan had thrown out of the green light''s range had indeed decreased.


    The white-robed man grew tense. Su Afo and the Nine-Tailed Princess were both surprised, while Sima Zongheng, on the other hand, wore a cold smile. Zhong Shan? You''re like me, aren''t you? My cultivation will recover in less than a hundred years; what about you?


    Zhong Shan''s cultivation hadn''t decreased at all! The one most frustrated wasn''t the white-robed man, but the Reverse Flow Beast. The beast could feel it most acutely��was this person made of stone? His cultivation hadn''t changed at all. The Reverse Flow Beast, now in a humanoid form, was sweating coldly.


    Putting in more effort, an increasing amount of green light surged towards Zhong Shan, enveloping himpletely. Zhong Shan, at this moment, seemed to be conducting an experiment.


    <strong>Foundation?</strong> Was this the so-called rusty bronze foundation he had? The Heavenly God Child once remarked, "What a vast foundation." Was this what he meant?


    The green light in the Reverse Flow Beast''s single eye continued to shine. After a whole incense stick''s time, the beast''s face showed deep fatigue. Yet, Zhong Shan still seemed unaffected, his cultivation unaltered.


    The white-robed man realized something was amiss. Was Zhong Shan truly unharmed? Faced with the Reverse Flow Beast''s green light, he seemedpletely unaffected.


    In an instant, fear gripped the white-robed man. His strongest card was the Reverse Flow Beast. If it couldn''t harm Zhong Shan, he was doomed.


    Two months ago, Zhong Shan had single-handedly annihted thousands of Confucian disciples, including several Grand Immortals.


    Not far away, Sima Zongheng spat out another mouthful of reverse blood. An entire incense stick''s time, and still no visible effect on Zhong Shan? He might as well die.


    Why, why was Zhong Shan unharmed while he had reverted to the Golden Core stage?


    Sima Zongheng''s eyes shed with deep hatred. Why was Zhong Shan unaffected? Why had he reverted to the Golden Core stage?


    ring at Zhong Shan with venomous hatred, Sima Zongheng whispered something to the gluttonous beast beneath him.


    Nearby, the Reverse Flow Beast felt its supernatural energy depleting. Yet, Zhong Shan remained unscathed. How could this be?


    Having seemingly finished examining his body, Zhong Shan coldly looked at the white-robed man.


    "Don''te any closer. You said you wouldn''t pursue this!" the white-robed man said, fear evident in his voice.


    "That was if you hadn''t provoked me. Today, if I were harmed by you, who would I beg for mercy from?" Zhong Shan replied coldly.


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous sound erupted from within Zhong Shan''s body, making everyone''s ears ring painfully. No one knew what had happened.


    Zhong Shan looked surprised as his cultivation finally decreased to the ninth level of the Heavenly Immortal stage. It had dropped by one level?


    The Reverse Flow Beast felt a surge of excitement, but it quickly turned to frustration. Even at the ninth level, Zhong Shan''s cultivation was still slow to decrease.


    Would Zhong Shan wait another incense stick''s time?


    "Hmph!" Zhong Shan snorted coldly.


    Behind the Reverse Flow Beast, a colossal figure, five hundred zhang tall, suddenly appeared.


    The white-robed man turned around, only to see a gigantic mouth.


    "Ah-woo!"


    The Reverse Flow Beast and the white-robed man disappeared into the mouth of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. The green light vanished as the beast had another hearty meal.


    "Ah-woo!"


    Another thunderous sound followed.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail vanished, reced by a thousand-zhang gluttonous beast.


    The gluttonous beast swallowed the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail in one gulp.


    "Hahaha...!" Sima Zonghengughed maniacally from a distance. Like a mantis catching a cicada, only to be caught by the oriole behind, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail devoured the Reverse Flow Beast, and the gluttonous beast devoured the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. Now, everything was within the belly of the gluttonous beast.


    "Sima Zongheng, you despicable person!" the Nine-Tailed Princess shouted angrily.


    "Sima Zongheng, you shouldn''t have done this," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    "Hmph, Zhong Shan, without that divine beast, let''s see how you manage. Once inside the belly of the gluttonous beast, no one can get out! With the gluttonous beast protecting me, you can''t kill me, hahahaha!" Sima Zonghengughed arrogantly.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had been swallowed by the gluttonous beast, but the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was linked to Zhong Shan''s divine consciousness. It was just a matter of a thought for it to reappear. However, Zhong Shan didn''t immediately summon it back. Instead, he said something that left everyone bewildered.


    "Reverse the swallow," Zhong Shan said with a cold smile.


    Reverse the swallow? What did that mean? The Nine-Tailed Princess, Su Afo, and Sima Zongheng were all confused. What was this reverse swallowing?


    Inside the belly of the gluttonous beast, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail curled up. Suddenly, it opened its mouth wide, seemingly adhering to the body of the gluttonous beast. With a massive force, the gluttonous beast''s mouth opened wider and wider until, in an eerie twist, its insides seemed to be turned inside out from its mouth. In a sh, the gluttonous beast disappeared, leaving only the colossal Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    Su Afo, the Nine-Tailed Princess, and Sima Zongheng all winced. The scene reminded them of turning a glove inside out. The gluttonous beast had just been turned inside out and devoured by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail?


    "No!" Sima Zongheng cried out in despair.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail vanished, rapidly breaking down the energy of the Reverse Flow Beast and the gluttonous beast, transferring most of it to Zhong Shan.


    The immense influx of energy caused Zhong Shan''s cultivation to rise again, quickly regaining the level he had lost.


    Heavenly Immortal Tenth Stage, Heavenly Immortal Great Perfection.


    Everything returned to normal as Zhong Shan looked at Sima Zongheng, now reduced to the Golden Core stage.


    Sima Zongheng backed away, his face a mix of despair and fear.


    "Can I still kill you now?" Zhong Shan asked coldly.


    Sima Zongheng red at Zhong Shan with deep hatred. But what could he do? As a mere Golden Core stage cultivator, he was no different from an ant.


    "Tell me, what is the purpose of this feng shui array? I can spare your life," Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "I don''t believe you. You would let me go? If I have to die, we''ll die together!" Sima Zongheng said, reaching for something.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan struck with his palm. For someone like Sima Zongheng, he had no interest in further conversation.


    Sima Zongheng fell, writhing in pain.


    "Zhong Shan, you crippled his cultivation?"


    "Only by crippling him can I be at ease," Zhong Shan replied, nodding.


    Turning his gaze to the feng shui array, Zhong Shan unleashed several strikes, shattering it. Although he didn''t know its purpose, he instinctively felt it should be destroyed.


    "No! No!" Sima Zongheng cried out in agony, but Zhong Shan paid no heed,pletely destroying the feng shui array.


    Turning back to Sima Zongheng, Zhong Shan said, "Considering your position in the Taichu Holy Court, I''ve only crippled your cultivation. Your life or death is now in your own hands."


    With that, Zhong Shan took to the sky. Su Afo and the Nine-Tailed Princess followed closely.


    "Zhong Shan, you could have killed him," Su Afo remarked.


    "Before formally leaving the Taichu Holy Court, I''ll avoid killing their important officials if I can," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    Not kill? If Sima Zongheng had heard this, he would have undoubtedly spewed three more mouthfuls of blood. Being rendered a cripple and having the feng shui array destroyed, thus ruining his family''s ns, was no different from being killed.


    This disaster brought unparalleled misery to Sima Zongheng.

 Chapter 933: Randelight鈥檚 Shamelessness

    <h4>Chapter 933: Randelight''s Shamelessness</h4>


    Zhong Shan, Nine-Tails, and Su Afo flew towards the inner area.


    "Something''s wrong. Everyone from all directions knows about the whereabouts of the Sage King and is gathering here," said Princess Nine-Tails, her face filled with worry.


    "The whereabouts of the Sage King Tai Chu? How did they find out?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "I''m not sure. The Sage King was staying at a square mountain, but somehow the information leaked. Now, because of this damaged Heaven and Earth Cauldron, strong cultivators are gathering in droves. There are too many: Grand Immortals, Heavenly Immortals, Earthly Immortals, Mystic Immortals, Human Immortals, and even mortals at the Heavenly Extreme Realm. Anyone who dreams of the Sage''s treasure has gone mad and is rushing over!" Princess Nine-Tails shook her head.


    Beside her, Su Afo looked speechless. Was Princess Nine-Tails broadcasting live? How did she know so much?


    "So many strong cultivators have arrived, what about the Ancient Immortals? Can''t the three Ancient Immortals, Sage King Tai Chu, Demon Chess Sage, and Sima Yuan, handle it?" Zhong Shan asked gravely.


    "Ancient Immortals? Fifteen of them. Do you think that''s a lot?" replied Princess Nine-Tails.


    Su Afo was at a loss for words. Fifteen Ancient Immortals? Where did theye from? How did so many appear so suddenly?


    Zhong Shan, however, furrowed his brows. Fifteen Ancient Immortals? That was no small number. Even with his current strength, it was impossible to face fifteen Ancient Immortals alone.


    Dealing with Tai Yi and Yan Hui was only possible because they didn''t understand his full capabilities. In essence, those two Ancient Immortals were taken down through trickery. But here? These fifteen Ancient Immortals knew about the existence of the Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail. Would they still fall for it?


    The Eight Extreme Heavenly Tail''s power could suppress one Ancient Immortal at most. Dealing with several Ancient Immortals was out of the question.


    "Zhong Shan, you''re not nning to back out, are you?" Princess Nine-Tails'' eyes sparkled with hope.


    After over a century of interaction, Princess Nine-Tails had developed a sense of reliance on Zhong Shan. It seemed there was nothing he couldn''t aplish.


    Indeed, everyone who knew Zhong Shan believed in his capabilities.


    Looking at Zhong Shan with anticipation, they hade this far. Could they really give up on the Heaven and Earth Cauldron? It was a Sage''s treasure.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan said in a deep voice, "After the opening of the world, Da Zhen only survived because of the protection of Sage King Tai Chu. Otherwise, it would have been destroyed that day. I, Zhong Shan, will repay this great favor. I will go this time, but after this battle, my debt with Tai Chu will be settled!"


    Princess Nine-Tails'' face immediately turned into a smile.


    The debt may be settled, but the friendship remained. Over the past century, she and Zhong Shan had built a deep bond. Nothing else mattered.


    The three continued flying inward.


    As they moved deeper, more and more strong cultivators gathered, quickly heading towards Zhong Shan''s target.


    Reaching out, Zhong Shan grabbed someone, a mortal at the Heavenly Extreme Realm.


    "Z-Zhong Sage King?" The man was initially terrified, then recognized Zhong Shan.


    "Where are you headed?" Zhong Shan asked sternly.


    Seeing it was Zhong Shan, the man dared not be disrespectful and quickly said, "I heard that Sage King Tai Chu obtained the Heaven and Earth Cauldron and is a million miles east, so I was going to try my luck!"


    "Heard? Who told you?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "A person from the Tai Chu Sacred Court identally let it slip. It happened on a mountain surrounded by a dense crowd. After the person let it slip, they disappeared!"


    Upon hearing this, Princess Nine-Tails'' face changed.


    Leaked by someone from the Tai Chu Sacred Court?


    Zhong Shan casually threw the man away, sending him flying out of their group.


    The three continued flying quickly towards the east.


    "Zhong Shan, are you saying there''s a traitor among Tai Chu''s people?" Princess Nine-Tails frowned.


    "What do you think?" Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "It''s obvious. It has to be someone close to the Sage King!" Su Afo interjected.


    "Someone close? There are six people who know the Sage King''s whereabouts. Besides the Demon Chess Sage and Sima Yuan, there are four others tasked with leading the strong cultivators away. They''ve all disappeared. Could it be one of them?" Princess Nine-Tails looked worried.


    Su Afo fell silent again. This situation was too bizarre, like a live broadcast of the events.


    "Let''s hurry. We''ll discuss it when we get there!" Zhong Shan frowned.


    The three of them sped towards their destination, seeing more and more strong cultivators converging. They headed directly towards an extraordinarily bright mountain peak in the distance.


    Arge number of strong cultivators had gathered, standing on the peaks of various surrounding mountains. Each peak was upied by numerous powerful beings.


    These strong cultivators were all taking their chances, and the closer they were to the central peak, the higher their cultivation.


    The central peak was a trapezoid mountain, its top seemingly cut off, creating a t surface hastily filled with numerous pces.


    In front of the pces, on arge za, stood two individuals.


    The masked Sage King Tai Chu and the solemn Demon Chess Sage. Behind them stood arge cauldron, three zhang high.


    The cauldron was bronze in color, with arge character for "Qian" (Ǭ) protruding on the outside and "Kun" (��) on the inside.


    This was the Heaven and Earth Cauldron. The cauldron was covered in rust and numerous cracks, resembling a spider web, making it look extremely worn.


    However, inside the cauldron swirled a peach-colored energy, slowly rotating, endless and eternal.


    This was the treasured cauldron of the goddess N��wa, the Heaven and Earth Cauldron.


    Sage King Tai Chu and the Demon Chess Sage were guarding this Heaven and Earth Cauldron.


    In front of them, arge glowing sphere hung in midair, like a small sun, emitting a rainbow of colors.


    On the other side of the glowing sphere stood fourteen powerful figures.


    These fourteen strong cultivators stood in midair, and those rushing to try their luck dared not approach, indicating the formidable power of these fourteen.


    Among the fourteen, Zhong Shan recognized one: the ancient Buddha of the Randelight Dojo, whom he had seen outside the N��wa Realm.


    The ancient Buddha Randelight gazed at the glowing sphere, a faint smile ying on his lips.


    Despite being enemies of the Sage King Tai Chu, the fourteen cultivators kept a cautious distance from each other, aware that there was only one Heaven and Earth Cauldron, and the final winner would be one of them.


    With no alliances, they were all on guard against each other.


    "Boom!!!"


    A loud explosion erupted as the rainbow-colored sphere shattered, causing the surrounding space to tremble and sending turbulent air currents in all directions.


    As the sphere dissipated, two figures suddenly appeared in the air.


    One was a man in a purple robe, his hair slightly disheveled. He was the Purple Heaven Dojo''s Purple Heaven Lord.


    The Purple Heaven Lord seemed extremely wary, staring at the man across from him, who was spitting blood.


    That man was Sima Yuan, the patriarch of the Sima family, whom Zhong Shan had seen in the Star Pce.


    Sima Yuan clutched his chest, his clothes torn and his body surrounded by strands of lightning. His hair stood on end, and though he spat blood, his eyes remained fierce as he red at the Purple Heaven Lord.


    Sima Yuan slowly descended to the square on the square mountain.


    "Sage King, I have done my best. I am severely injured and can no longer fight, but the Purple Heaven Lord surely can''t continue fighting either," Sima Yuan said bitterly as he stood before Sage King Tai Chu.


    "Good," Sage King Tai Chu nodded.


    He acknowledged Sima Yuan''s withdrawal from the battle. In the sky, the fifteen Ancient Immortals were now reduced to fourteen, while his own side had also lost one Ancient Immortal.


    The Demon Chess Sage frowned even more deeply.


    Suddenly, the Demon Chess Sage''s eyes widened in realization. Across the sky, while the Purple Heaven Lord retreated, another Ancient Immortal appeared.


    Sixteen Ancient Immortals?


    If this continued, more and more Ancient Immortals would arrive. If they rmed the Ancestor Immortals, the Heaven and Earth Cauldron would be impossible to take away. What to do?


    In the distance, the spectators also noticed this scene.


    "Sixteen Ancient Immortals? There''s no point inpeting anymore; it''s not ours to take!"ined one of the spectators.


    "Not necessarily. The sixteen Ancient Immortals are not united; we still have a chance!"


    "Chance? You can''t even handle one Ancient Immortal, what chance do you have?"


    "Sage King Tai Chu is taking a gamble; why can''t I?"


    "If Sage King Tai Chu doesn''t hand over the Heaven and Earth Cauldron, he''s doomed. Don''t you see how many people are here? Is anyone willing to help him?"


    "Help? How? Every Ancient Immortal wants the Heaven and Earth Cauldron. Who else would dare to help? There are already sixteen Ancient Immortals; there might be more soon. Helping him is a death wish!"


    "Right, unless someone is a fool, no one will help Sage King Tai Chu now!"


    People chattered on. This was the stage of the Ancient Immortals. No one would help Sage King Tai Chu. Unless he handed over the Heaven and Earth Cauldron, today would end in disaster for him.


    But, the world is always full of surprises.


    Just as the number of Ancient Immortals reached sixteen, three figures descended onto the square mountain.


    Seeing this, everyone fell silent.


    "There are really foolsing?"


    "Are they courting death?"


    The three figures were Zhong Shan, Su Afo, and Princess Nine-Tails. Theynded beside Sage King Tai Chu.


    Seeing Zhong Shan and hispanions arrive, Sima Yuan frowned, the Demon Chess Sage looked worriedly at Princess Nine-Tails, while Sage King Tai Chu seemed unsurprised, as if he had known they woulde.


    The sixteen Ancient Immortals across from them quickly assessed the trio''s cultivation.


    "Humph!"


    Several of them simultaneously showed disdain. All three were at the Heavenly Immortal realm. Did these three Heavenly Immortals intend to block their way?


    A few, however, were slightly puzzled. They had noticed the trio outside the N��wa Realm, where Su Afo and Princess Nine-Tails were Grand Immortals. How had they now be Heavenly Immortals?


    "Princess, why are you here?" the Demon Chess Sage asked worriedly.


    "I asked her toe," Sage King Tai Chu said calmly.


    Frowning, the Demon Chess Sage looked at Sage King Tai Chu and then nodded.


    The sixteen Ancient Immortals in the sky didn''t rush forward all at once, wary of each other. This gave Sage King Tai Chu a rtively manageable battle environment.


    The Purple Heaven Lord had retreated, and another Ancient Immortal stepped forward.


    It was the ancient Buddha from the Randelight Dojo.


    "Sage King Tai Chu, the Heaven and Earth Cauldron behind you is destined for my sect. You should give up your obsession," said the ancient Buddha Randelight.


    His words drew scorn from the surrounding strong cultivators. Destined for your sect? I could say the same for myself. This Randelight fellow is shameless!

 Chapter 934: The Ancient Green Mountain

    <h4>Chapter 934: The Ancient Green Mountain</h4>


    "Sage King Tai Chu, the Heaven and Earth Cauldron behind you is destined for my sect. You should relinquish it," said the ancient Buddha Randelight.


    Randelight''s words drew disdain from the crowd. Destined for your sect? I could say the same. This Randelight fellow is shameless.


    Sage King Tai Chu stared at Randelight and shook his head. "The twenty-four Sea Calming Pearls of your sect are destined for my dynasty. You should let them go as well."


    "Hahaha...!"


    A burst of heartyughter erupted from the crowd.


    Randelight, unashamed, smiled faintly. "People are often confused. Today, they don''t see the truth, but they will tomorrow. The Heaven and Earth Cauldron is destined for my sect. Randelight is here to collect it. If Sage King Tai Chu resists, it will be a tribtion before joining our sect. I, Randelight, await Tai Chu''s tribtion!"


    The crowd was speechless. Such shamelessness was indeed a unique trait.


    "Sage King, let me handle this," said the Demon Chess Sage.


    "Alright," Tai Chu nodded.


    The Demon Chess Sage stepped forward, and the surrounding strong cultivators made way.


    "Please," Randelight smiled, exuding confidence as if everything was under his control.


    The Demon Chess Sage nodded and flicked his fingers, producing a chess piece between his index and middle fingers. At the same time, dozens of chess pieces flew out from his sleeve.


    Arranged in the void, they immediately distorted the space around them, radiating a powerful aura in all directions.


    "The Heaven''s Cmity Chessboard?" Zhong Shan recognized it instantly.


    The appearance of the Heaven''s Cmity Chessboard made everyone''s eyebrows twitch. The formidable aura it exuded was undeniable, solidifying the Demon Chess Sage''s reputation as the greatest chess master in Fengzhong Territory.


    Randelight''s expression changed upon seeing the chessboard.


    "Su Daji?" Randelight eximed in surprise.


    "Boom!"


    The void trembled lightly, and a massive golden lightning sphere formed in midair, enveloping Randelight and the Demon Chess Sage within.


    Inside the giant lightning sphere, strands of lightning shot out, striking distant mountains, which exploded upon contact.


    The numerous strong cultivators quickly retreated, watching the scene in awe and terror.


    "The Demon Chess Sage is truly formidable! To set up a chess formation within the ''world''��this chess formation is indeed extraordinary, unbelievable!" someone eximed from afar.


    "But Randelight is no weakling. I''ve heard he''s reincarnated three times and is at the peak of Ancient Immortal. The Demon Chess Sage might be in trouble!"


    "Randelight mentioned Su Daji? I remember now, the chessboard from the Ancient Immortal Secret Realm, set by the first wise fox of the fox n, was this one?"


    "Hope the Demon Chess Sage wins!"


    People discussed fervently, their dislike for Randelight making them root for the Demon Chess Sage.


    Zhong Shan frowned. Using the Heaven''s Cmity Chessboard to create a ''world''? The Demon Chess Sage had yet to fullyprehend the Heaven''s Cmity Chessboard and still lived in Su Daji''s shadow.


    No one moved. This battlested nearly an hour, with terrifying golden lightning raining down everywhere, the power of Ancient Immortals unfathomable.


    "Boom!!!"


    Endless lightning exploded outward, scattering in all directions and shattering some of the weaker cultivators. Terrified, the onlookers retreated even further.


    The battle had ended. The Demon Chess Sage flew backward, clutching his chest, a trickle of blood at the corner of his mouth. Even with the Heaven''s Cmity Chessboard, he couldn''t ovee the ancient Buddha Randelight.


    Randelight held a greenmp, the small me on it flickering softly, giving it an ancient and ethereal appearance. However, a corner of his robe was torn, indicating that the Heaven''s Cmity Chessboard was not entirely ineffective.


    "Su Daji''s strategy? Su Daji once schemed against seven sages. Her formations were immensely powerful. If she were here personally, I might not be able to withstand her. But you are not Su Daji. I appreciate the effort," Randelight shook his head.


    "Sage King, I have failed to meet your expectations," the Demon Chess Sage said dejectedly.


    Looking at the Demon Chess Sage, Sage King Tai Chu sighed lightly, "You are already injured. You have done your best."


    "Yes."


    "Take Su Afo and leave the N��wa Realm now!" Tai Chu ordered.


    "Sage King? This...?" the Demon Chess Sage''s eyes widened.


    "Qingqiu is not what it once was. I do not wish for the Qingqiu fox n to lose another Ancient Immortal," Tai Chu said.


    The Demon Chess Sage''s expression changed several times before he finally nodded, "Understood."


    "What about Princess Nine-Tails?" the Demon Chess Sage quickly asked. After all, Princess Nine-Tails was very important to the fox n.


    "She stays," Tai Chu replied.


    "I stay," Princess Nine-Tails immediately echoed.


    The Demon Chess Sage''s face took on a peculiar look, but he eventually nodded. With a flick of his sleeve, he swiftly took Su Afo and left. No one stopped the Demon Chess Sage from leaving; if anything, they wished everyone on the square mountain would leave as well.


    Sima Yuan, seeing the Demon Chess Sage depart, looked anxious, wanting to shout, "I''m injured too! Why can''t I leave?"


    Randelight nced at the four people on the square.


    Sima Yuan, Sage King Tai Chu, Princess Nine-Tails, and Zhong Shan.


    Four people. Could they really stop so many powerful cultivators?


    "Sage King Zhong!" Tai Chu suddenly called out.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "I intend to join the battle. Please look after the Heaven and Earth Cauldron for me. I would be most grateful," Tai Chu said.


    "Rest assured, as long as I am here, no one wille within ten feet of it before you return," Zhong Shan nodded confidently.


    Some of the Ancient Immortals sneered, but others had heard of the recent tales: Zhong Shan ughtering Tai Yi and Yan Hui. Zhong Shan''s strength was unfathomable.


    Sima Yuan looked at Zhong Shan with resentment. He hadn''t expected Tai Chu to ultimately entrust the Heaven and Earth Cauldron to an outsider.


    After giving all necessary instructions, Tai Chu stepped forward.


    "Sage King Tai Chu?" Randelight smiled slightly, maintaining his calm demeanor.


    "Randelight, you participated in the Investiture of the Gods and are one of the oldest beings. Don''t you know that Qingqiu should not be provoked?" Tai Chu said calmly.


    At Tai Chu''s words, Randelight''s serene smile suddenly vanished, as if remembering something, and his eyes flickered with uncertainty.


    "I have heard the legends. But Qingqiu is just a hill now. The once mighty Green Mountain has copsed, leaving only a hill," Randelight said solemnly.


    "It''s surprising you still remember Qing Shan. Indeed, Qing Shan has copsed, leaving only Qingqiu. But one day, Qing Shan will be rebuilt, and the reborn Qing Shan will once again awe the world. Randelight, you better remember today and consider the price you will pay!" Sage King Tai Chu said coldly.


    Randelight fell silent, seemingly torn for a moment. The surrounding strong cultivators, even the Ancient Immortals, looked puzzled. Qing Shan? What was that? Qingqiu was known, but Qing Shan? No one had heard of it.


    Taking a few deep breaths, Randelight shook his head. "Qing Shan is in the past. The past won''t return; it is just a legend now."


    "Hahahaha, a legend? You know better than anyone why the sages favored the fox n back then. Hmph, leave now, and I will let bygones be bygones. But if you persist, I will record this grudge for the future Qing Shan to settle!" Tai Chu''s tone grew sharper and more aggressive.


    The numerous strong cultivators looked at Tai Chu in astonishment. Was he bluffing Randelight? Even the Ancient Immortals turned their gazes to Randelight, curious about Qing Shan''s significance. Why had it garnered the favor of the sages?


    Indeed, the goddess N��wa had favored the fox n in the past, but... Randelight shook his head. "You think you can threaten me with something unknown? You''re not qualified! Make your move; I''ll let you have three strikes!"


    Let you have three strikes?


    At that moment, everyone understood the weight of "Qing Shan." Even the shameless Randelight was willing to allow three strikes. This was not his usual style. Was he leaving himself an escape route?


    Tai Chu nodded, not expecting Qing Shan to scare off Randelight, but gaining an advantage was always beneficial.


    Tai Chu extended his right palm, a blue sphere of light forming in his palm, generating endless whirlwinds and terrifying currents.


    Tai Chu clenched his right palm, aiming his index and middle fingers at Randelight.


    Suddenly, a deep blue beam shot from Tai Chu''s fingertips, directly towards Randelight.


    Randelight''s expression changed, and he raised his bronzemp in defense. A hundred green halos formed protective shields around him.


    "Boom!!!"


    With a loud explosion, the hundred shields shattered, and the blue light struck the bronzemp, producing a vast brilliance that illuminated the heavens and the earth.


    The dazzling light momentarily blinded those with lower cultivation levels.


    After the first strike, cold sweat trickled down Randelight''s forehead. The bronzemp in his hand was slightly dented, showing the power of that blue beam.


    "The Heaven-Severing Finger! The fox n''s Heaven-Severing Finger is indeed formidable. But you''re still just an Ancient Immortal!" Randelight said with lingering fear.


    "One of the three ancientmps is indeed powerful," Tai Chu nodded.


    As he spoke, Tai Chuunched his second strike. Again, he didn''t use any artifacts but raised his right palm like a de.


    In the sky, a silver moon appeared. It wasn''t a real moon but a sharp edge, causing the space to tremble as it passed.


    "Silver Moon sh? Another secret technique of ancient Qing Shan. Wasn''t it lost? How do you know it? Who taught you?" Randelight was shocked.


    The bronzemp in his hand suddenly erged a hundredfold, rising to meet the attack.


    "Boom!!!"


    A massive ripple spread through the surrounding space, disintegrating everything it touched. The distant strong cultivators retreated even further, their eyes filled with horror. What kind of secret technique was this? How could it be so terrifying?


    After a moment of blindness, the surroundings gradually returned to normal. Randelight''s bronzemp, the source of his fame, was now bent, and the me on top had been extinguished, looking as though it might be ruined.

 Chapter 935: The Sage King Tai Chu Reveals His True Colors

    <h4>Chapter 935: The Sage King Tai Chu Reveals His True Colors</h4>


    Silver Moon sh? Such a powerful technique! Everyone was stunned as they watched Sage King Tai Chu.


    They had known that Sage King Tai Chu was formidable, but they hadn''t expected this level of strength. If anyone else had faced the Silver Moon sh instead of Randelight, they would have been severely injured.


    Had Sage King Tai Chu reached the peak of the Ancient Immortal stage?


    Randelight, looking at Tai Chu with surprise, acknowledged the strength demonstrated by the Heaven-Severing Finger and Silver Moon sh. His cherished bronzemp had been severely damaged. Though he managed to reignite its me with a breath, the internal damage was beyond repair.


    Randelight''s frown deepened. The secret techniques of ancient Qing Shan were believed to be lost. What was Tai Chu doing? Was this a warning?


    At that moment, Tai Chuunched his third strike.


    This time, it seemed ordinary, merely a horizontal palm strike. However, it was equally strange. A ck hole appeared in Tai Chu''s palm, absorbing a vast amount of air.


    As Tai Chu pushed his palm towards Randelight, a dark handprint appeared in the void, causing the surrounding space to tremble. With each inch the ck palm advanced, its power increased.


    Randelight''s eyes widened, and he raised his bronzemp again.


    "Boom!!!"


    The massive bronzemp shattered upon impact with the ck palm. The force of the strike was terrifying. Randelight''s expression changed as he abandoned his previous promise and unleashed the full might of his domain.


    A massive, dark red sphere of light appeared in the void, its slight tremors causing ripples in the surrounding space.


    The two supreme experts began their battle in earnest!


    Although their figures were obscured within the "world," the shockwaves of their fight revealed its intensity.


    The distant onlookers retreated further. Their earlier thoughts were too naive; the power of Ancient Immortals was overwhelming, and staying too close was certain death.


    "Whoosh!"


    Two more Ancient Immortals flew in from afar.


    Including Randelight, the number of opposing Ancient Immortals had reached seventeen.


    The crowd''s focus was on two points: the dark red sphere where Randelight and Tai Chu fought, and the Heaven and Earth Cauldron behind Zhong Shan.


    Sima Yuan, standing nearby, also kept a close eye on the cauldron, his expression dark and uncertain.


    No one dared to rush towards the square mountain. They were waiting for the oue of the battle within the dark red sphere. Everyone knew the Heaven and Earth Cauldron couldn''t be taken away just yet. Without the strength to defeat all challengers, anyone who tried would be a victim.


    The battle in the sky raged on for two hours.


    "Boom!!!"


    With a deafening explosion, the dark red sphere disintegrated into boundless energy, the powerful st causing some mortals'' ears to bleed. It was terrifying.


    Everyone looked up at the sky.


    Randelight''s robes werergely torn, and the bronzemp had shattered into pieces that fell into his hands. Surrounding him were twenty-four deep blue spheres of light, shining brilliantly.


    Twenty-four Sea Calming Pearls, also known as the Twenty-Four Heavens!


    Randelight''s strongest treasure, obtained during the Investiture of the Gods.


    With the emergence of the Twenty-Four Heavens, Sage King Tai Chu was utterly defeated.


    At this moment, nearly everyone''s eyes were fixed on Tai Chu. Not just because Tai Chu was defeated, but because of what was happening to Tai Chu.


    Tai Chu''s mask had shattered, revealing an extraordinary face beneath.


    "A woman?" someone in the crowd eximed.


    "She, he is...!"


    People were astonished as they looked at Sage King Tai Chu. Tai Chu''s face was incredibly familiar. On the square mountain? Princess Nine-Tails.


    An identical face to Princess Nine-Tails? Exactly the same. These were all supreme cultivators, capable of noticing the tiniest differences, yet Tai Chu and Princess Nine-Tails looked exactly alike, down to the number of eyebrows.


    People were stunned.


    Sima Yuan, standing nearby, also looked at Princess Nine-Tails in horror.


    "No wonder, no wonder you favored Princess Nine-Tails so much. You, you''re no longer the original Sage King Tai Chu. You''re not Tai Chu, you''re an impostor!" Sima Yuan shouted.


    "Not Tai Chu? An impostor?"


    The crowd was in an uproar. Could there really be a fake Sage King Tai Chu?


    The uproarsted only a moment because another sight captured everyone''s attention.


    A tail? A silver tail shadow behind Sage King Tai Chu, reaching skyward with an imposing aura. Though only a shadow, it undeniably came from Tai Chu.


    A fox tail? Sage King Tai Chu had revealed a fox tail?


    A beast? How could a beast be the ruler of a dynasty? This was impossible.


    In the sky, Tai Chu gently wiped the blood from her lips, ring coldly at Randelight, the enormous silver tail behind her swinging menacingly.


    Randelight''s eyes twitched, equally incredulous. "Are you human or a beast?"


    Indeed, was Tai Chu human or beast? If human, why a fox tail? If beast, how could she hold the fate to sustain a dynasty? It seemed impossible.


    Just then, Princess Nine-Tails, standing beside Zhong Shan, suddenly flew up, joining Tai Chu. She, too, looked coldly down at Randelight.


    "They both have the same look in their eyes?"


    "Twins?"


    "No, not twins. They are... the same person!"


    At the realization, the crowd erupted in disbelief. One person? Sage King Tai Chu? Princess Nine-Tails? They were the same person?


    "I understand now. You''re the same person. One is human, the other is beast? The supreme secret technique of the beast n, Soul Split!" Randelight eximed.


    Supreme secret technique?


    The surrounding cultivators gasped. There were many secret techniques, with varying degrees of power, but those termed ''supreme'' were few. Each ''supreme'' technique represented an unparalleled pinnacle.


    Supreme secret technique? Soul Split?


    The Ancient Immortals looked at Tai Chu and Princess Nine-Tails with suspicion. Indeed, a supreme secret technique. Beast is beast, human is human, they cannot be one. Yet here was irrefutable evidence.


    Heaven and Earth havews: humans can establish dynasties, beasts cannot. But this supreme secret technique defied thatw. It was against the heavens, a technique against the natural order.


    "Randelight, you''ve forced this upon us!" Sage King Tai Chu and Princess Nine-Tails said simultaneously.


    As they spoke, nine enormous fox tail shadows burst forth from behind Princess Nine-Tails. The terrifying disy of the nine colossal tails sent a wave of intense allure crashing into everyone''s minds.


    Nearly everyone experienced a moment of dizziness, then looked at Princess Nine-Tails in horror.


    Heavenly Immortal? At this moment, was Princess Nine-Tails still a Heavenly Immortal? No, like Sage King Tai Chu, she was in the Ancient Immortal realm! A powerful Ancient Immortal!


    In a brief, almost eerie touch, the two merged into one.


    It really was the same person.


    But that wasn''t the most shocking thing. The most incredible scene unfolded next.


    Ten tails. From behind Sage King Tai Chu, ten tails appeared: one was the original giant silver tail, and the other nine were Princess Nine-Tails'' tails.


    The ten massive tails soared into the sky, creating space ripples with their movements, exuding an overwhelming and arrogant aura.


    A powerful energy surged forth.


    "Ten tails? There really are ten tails?" Randelight''s face showed a mix of shock and awe.


    As if recalling an ancient legend, Randelight''s expression briefly showed fear, but it was quickly reced by a fierce determination.


    "Qingqiu''s Ten Tails? Invincible among peers? I am also at the peak of the Ancient Immortal stage. Let''s see if you are truly invincible!" Randelight took a deep breath.


    Invincible among peers?


    "Whoosh!"


    Sage King Tai Chu''s figure suddenly vanished, reappearing in front of Randelight in the blink of an eye, delivering a powerful strike.


    "Boom!!!"


    With a loud explosion, Randelight was sent flying. He leveraged the void several times to mitigate Tai Chu''s strike, but his clothing suffered even more damage.


    "Incredible!" Randelight eximed in mid-air.


    "World of Heavens!"


    The Twenty-Four Heavens glowed with a brilliant blue light, enveloping Randelight. Yet, Sage King Tai Chu charged into the World of Heavens without hesitation.


    The fierce battle resumed. Moments ago, Sage King Tai Chu couldn''t match Randelight, but now, fused with Princess Nine-Tails, they formed the Ten Tails, appearing to suppress Randelight entirely.


    Around the blue sphere, the intense shockwaves forced the onlookers to retreat further in fear.


    The sixteen Ancient Immortals exchanged nces, their eyes filled with astonishment and uncertainty. They realized they were not strong enough to face the Ten Tails.


    The power of the Ten Tails was too violent.


    Moreover, the revtion that Sage King Tai Chu was from the fox n shocked everyone. A supreme secret technique? Could a beast truly establish a dynasty? Did the ancient era have beastly sacred courts or beastly emperors? Did they once rule the world?


    The appearance of the Ten Tails seemed to peel back ayer of the ancient past, ensuring Sage King Tai Chu would shake the world after this battle.


    Some people, however, had their eyes fixed on the Heaven and Earth Cauldron.


    One such person was Sima Yuan. Seeing Tai Chu''s immense power, Sima Yuan''s expression grew darker. Sage King Tai Chu had always been an enigma to him, whether it was the old Sage King or the current one, constantly exceeding expectations. Ten Tails? She was the Ten Tails?


    ncing at the Heaven and Earth Cauldron, Sima Yuan seemed to make a decision. Narrowing his eyes, he ignored Zhong Shan standing guard and suddenly reached out to grab the cauldron, moving with the swiftness of someone who appeared entirely uninjured.

 Chapter 936: Twists and Turns

    <h4>Chapter 936: Twists and Turns</h4>


    Sima Yuan made a sudden grab with his palm, immediately drawing the attention of the surrounding powerful figures.


    "Bastard!"


    A chorus of enraged voices erupted from the assembled ancient immortals.


    The Qiankun Cauldron was a prize everyone had agreed to leave untouched, out of mutual respect and understanding. Anyone attempting to seize it would be themon enemy of all ancient immortals. At this moment, it still belonged to the Primordial Holy King, and thus was under Zhong Shan''s protection. No one had any objections to this arrangement. Until the battle''s oue was decided, no one was to make a move, not even Sima Yuan, who was allied with the Primordial Holy King.


    Sima Yuan moved too quickly. Having prepared to snatch the Qiankun Cauldron, he acted with the utmost speed. By the time the other ancient immortals noticed, his palm was already near Zhong Shan.


    With a resounding explosion, the gigantic palm that Sima Yuan had formed disintegrated. He was sent flying backwards by a powerful surge of hostility.


    Sima Yuan couldn''t believe that thest person on the mountain, Zhong Shan, could wield such immense power.


    As Sima Yuan was sent flying, the ancient immortals closed in on him, ring at the one who had broken the unspoken rules.


    Before the Qiankun Cauldron, a long purple tail emerged in front of Zhong Shan, exuding a powerful sword energy that had sted Sima Yuan away.


    The Baji Heavenly Tail?


    Standing on Zhong Shan''s shoulder, the Baji Heavenly Tail exuded an air of arrogance, casting a cold gaze at the surrounding ancient immortals.


    At this moment, the Baji Heavenly Tail no longer had much to gain from consuming ancient immortals. Thus, the longing gaze it once had when facing Yan Hui had vanished.


    Zhong Shan''s divine beast, the Baji Heavenly Tail?


    Everyone looked towards Zhong Shan''s shoulder. How had it appeared? It seemed to have materialized out of thin air.


    The Baji Heavenly Tail had blocked Sima Yuan.


    Although Zhong Shan had be the center of attention, no one made another move. They waited for the oue of the battle between the Primordial Holy King and the Ancient Buddha of the Burning Lamp.


    Sima Yuan, however, was now deeply guarded against by the ancient immortals. He was a destabilizing element, attempting to seize the Qiankun Cauldron, and had earned everyone''s distrust.


    Remarkably, Sima Yuan appeared uninjured. Everyone looked towards the Purple Cloud Sect Master, as both had been wounded in their recent battle. Were they merely putting on a show?


    Sima Yuan red at Zhong Shan with hatred. He should have listened to his son, Sima Qing, and eliminated Zhong Shan earlier to avoid this situation.


    Suppressing his frustration, Sima Yuan flew towards a distant mountain peak, joining the ranks of ancient immortalspeting for the Qiankun Cauldron. Besides the Burning Lamp, Zhong Shan now faced seventeen ancient immortals as adversaries.


    Sima Yuan lightly tapped his foot, sending a subtle energy through the mountain into the earth, where it vanished.


    In a remote and deste valley to the south, surrounded by mist as if shrouded in a grand formation, Zhong Shan would have immediately recognized the feng shui array as identical to the one Sima Zongheng had used earlier.


    The valley was filled with soldiers of the Primordial Holy King, or more precisely, the Sima family''s private army.


    A man in a red robe stood guard before a small formation. Suddenly, the formation glowed brightly.


    "The master has sent a message. It''s time. The Qiankun Cauldron has been lured into the formation by the master!" the man in the red robe eximed excitedly.


    "Start the formation!" The man in the red robe stood up and waved his hand.


    "Yes!" The disciples of the Sima family immediately began setting up the formation.


    This scene unfolded in dozens of different ces. Clearly, this was a meticulously nned scheme, a grand feng shui array designed by Sima Yuan long ago, aimed specifically at the Qiankun Cauldron on Fang Mountain.


    As formations were set up in one ce after another, in the west of Fang Mountain, Sima Zonghengy crippled, his cultivation destroyed by Zhong Shan, paralyzed on the ground with a face full of hatred.


    Reflecting on his encounters with Zhong Shan, Sima Zongheng was filled with regret. A harbinger of disaster? A nemesis? Was Zhong Shan truly his nemesis? Why did misfortune strike him every time he crossed paths with Zhong Shan, one disaster after another?


    The thought of this filled Sima Zongheng''s chest with even more frustration. Several times he wanted to spit out blood but managed to suppress it.


    At that moment, a faint green light suddenly emitted from beneath a nearby corpse.


    Sima Zongheng lifted the corpse, revealing a small glowing formation that had been hidden underneath. Zhong Shan had not discovered it earlier because the corpse had covered it.


    Seeing the glowing formation, Sima Zongheng couldn''t hold back anymore and spat out a mouthful of blood.


    The master''s grand n had begun, but in his segment, there was a critical failure. The feng shui array had been destroyed by Zhong Shan.


    "Oh my god, why am I so unlucky?" Sima Zongheng coughed up another liter of blood and fainted.


    In front of Fang Mountain, the fierce battle continued. The dominance of the Primordial Holy King seemed to inspire everyone. Ten tails? Was he truly the foremost ancient immortal?


    With a tremendous explosion, the blue light in the sky abruptly dissipated. The twenty-four Dinghai Pearls shattered, and the Ancient Buddha of the Burning Lamp was struck into the ground, creating a massive crater.


    The body of the Ancient Buddha of the Burning Lamp waspletely charred, turned into what seemed like a piece of ckened coal, exuding a deathly aura.


    In mid-air, the Primordial Holy King let out a slight breath, his ten tails swaying majestically behind him, exuding an aura of absolute dominance.


    A moment of silence fell over the powerful beings, including all the ancient immortals, who silently gazed at the Primordial Holy King.


    Then they looked at the Ancient Buddha of the Burning Lamp on the ground, now a piece of charred coal.


    Had the Ancient Buddha of the Burning Lamp been defeated?


    The Primordial Holy King appeared slightly fatigued, while the Ancient Buddha of the Burning Lamp was in a far worse condition.


    Fight? Who else would dare to fight?


    Just as everyone hesitated.


    "Crack!"


    The piece of charred coal that was the Ancient Buddha of the Burning Lamp suddenly made a crisp sound.


    Everyone looked and saw a crack appear on the surface of the charred body.


    A crack?


    "Crack, crack, crack..."


    A series of cracking sounds followed, and spider-web-like fissures spread across the charred surface. A vibrant life force began to emerge from within the deathly aura.


    "Life force?"


    Almost everyone''s faces changed. The Ancient Buddha of the Burning Lamp wasn''t dead?


    With a snap, a small piece of the charred surface fell off, revealing tender white skin underneath. The skin of the Ancient Buddha of the Burning Lamp?


    Suddenly, a massive aura burst forth from within the charred body, sending waves of immense energy sweeping in all directions, pressing heavily on everyone''s hearts.


    "Ancestral Immortal?"


    Someone eximed in shock.


    "Boom!"


    A massive explosion scattered the charred remains, and an overwhelming surge of green energy enveloped the Burning Lamp. Above the green energy, a greenmp reappeared.


    Wasn''t that greenmp destroyed by the Primordial Holy King earlier? How had it restored itself?


    Under the shroud of green light, the ancient immortals sensed something ominous for an entire incense stick''s time. Even the Primordial Holy King widened his eyes in disbelief.


    "He''s broken through?" The Primordial Holy King muttered incredulously.


    "Bang!"


    With the dispersion of the green light, the Burning Lamp was revealed.


    The Burning Lamp had recoveredpletely, looking radiant and unscathed, exuding a brilliant light.


    "Amitabha!" The Burning Lamp suddenly intoned a Buddhist chant.


    "Thank you, Primordial Holy King, for helping me understand life and death!" The Burning Lamp said calmly.


    "Understanding life and death and achieving the level of an Ancestral Immortal? No, an Ancestral Buddha?" The Primordial Holy King frowned deeply.


    No one expected this twist. Just when he had almost dominated thepetition, the Burning Lamp broke through at thest moment? Achieving the level of an Ancestral Immortal? Was it really that easy?


    The ancient immortals were equally stunned, staring at the Burning Lamp. His luck was extraordinary.


    "I told you, the Qiankun Cauldron is destined for my sect. Primordial Holy King, it would be wise not to persist," the Burning Lamp said with a smile.


    The twenty-four Dinghai Pearls had shattered, but it didn''t matter. For the Burning Lamp, the gain of bing an Ancestral Immortal was more significant than ten sets of Dinghai Pearls. Besides, wasn''t there still a supreme treasure of a sage in front of him?


    The situation grew even more bizarre. Moments ago, the ancient immortals were guarding against the Primordial Holy King. Now, they were all wary of the Burning Lamp.


    An Ancestral Immortal was different from an ancient immortal. Even the weakest Ancestral Immortal was still an Ancestral Immortal, the highest level below a sage.


    With the Burning Lamp reaching the level of Ancestral Immortal, who could still fight for the cauldron?


    "Ancestral Immortal? I refuse to believe in your luck! Great Perfection Divine Palm!" The Primordial Holy King shouted in anger.


    As he spoke, the Primordial Holy King struck at the Burning Lamp with all his might.


    With the strike, ten palms appeared from different directions, crashing towards the Burning Lamp.


    At the center of the ten palms, the Burning Lamp chanted calmly.


    "Using this move again? It could have killed me earlier, but now it poses no threat." The Burning Lamp said lightly.


    "Boom!"


    Before the ten massive palms, which sealed off the sky and the earth, could hit the Burning Lamp, he suddenly vanished. The ten palms collided and neutralized each other, causing ripples in space.


    "Boom!"


    The Burning Lamp mysteriously appeared behind the Primordial Holy King and delivered a fierce strike, sending the king flying. In mid-air, the Primordial Holy King split into two, revealing both himself and the Nine-tailed Princess.


    With one strike, the ten-tail fusion was broken.


    The Primordial Holy King and the Nine-tailed Princessnded on Fang Mountain, both with blood trickling from their mouths. They red coldly at the Burning Lamp.


    "Your distraction prevents you from ever fusing permanently. At most, you canbine the ten tails for a short time, isn''t that right?" The Burning Lamp said with a faint smile.


    Now dominating the scene, the Burning Lamp was determined to im the Qiankun Cauldron.


    "Ahhhh!"


    As the Burning Lamp was about to seize the Qiankun Cauldron, a scream echoed from afar.


    At that moment, everyone noticed that the sky and all directions were suddenly filled with a thick yellow fog.


    The person who screamed was now engulfed by the yellow fog, and from the fog emerged a ferocious yellow dragon.


    Had that person turned into a yellow dragon?


    Not just him. Anyone touched by the yellow fog painfully transformed into yellow dragons, unaffected by any protective shields, all morphing into yellow dragons.


    "Masking the heavens, reversing forms? Is this a feng shui array?" The Burning Lamp frowned in astonishment.

 Chapter 937: The Marvel of Life and Death

    <h4>Chapter 937: The Marvel of Life and Death</h4>


    "Masking the heavens, reversing forms? Is this a feng shui array?" The Burning Lamp furrowed his brow in astonishment.


    Not only did the Burning Lamp frown, but Zhong Shan on Fang Mountain also felt a jolt of realization.


    The Entrapment Dragon Array? Zhong Shan had seen this feng shui array before. In the past, during the struggle for the "Earth Book" in the Small Thousand World, the feng shui master Shenxiu had set up this exact formation.


    Back in the Small Thousand World, among the feng shui masters ''Heaven, Earth, Human, God, Ghost,'' only Shenxiu knew this array. Hadn''t Shenxiu died? His lineage should have ended.


    But what was this? The Entrapment Dragon Array?


    Could it be that the founder of Shenxiu''s lineage had be an immortal and left the Small Thousand World eons ago?


    No, Zhong Shan''s expression suddenly changed.


    Had Shenxiu really died? His death had seemed too easy, killed by a powerful figure from the underworld of the Small Thousand World. Even the lord of the Undying World, Ye Qingcheng, had respected him, calling him "Master Shenxiu," yet faced the elder of the Undying World, the Mirror Demon Master, with arrogance.


    Shenxiu''s strength was clearly far below the Mirror Demon Master''s, yet Ye Qingcheng had addressed him with respect? There was something suspicious about his death!


    Could it be that Shenxiu wasn''t dead?��


    In the Wind Burial Territory, Qingqiu!


    At Sima Qing''s residence, a man in a purple robe had arrived. He had no eyebrows, looked extremely robust, and the purple robe added to his air of mystery.


    The courtyard was filled with jade tforms, shrouded in mist, adding to the mystique.


    Sima Qing and the man in the purple robe both looked at one of the jade tforms.


    Sima Qing couldn''t discern anything, but the man in the purple robe appeared solemn.


    "Master, has the Entrapment Dragon Array been activated?" Sima Qing asked.


    "It has been activated, but there was an issue with Sima Zongheng''s segment," the purple-robed man shook his head.


    "Oh?" Sima Qing''s expression changed.


    "As long as Sima Yuan handles it quickly, this segment won''t affect the overall n," the purple-robed man said, shaking his head.


    "That''s good!" Sima Qing nodded.


    "Master, your feng shui skills are extraordinary. I see you have no disciples. I have a cousin who is extremely talented. Would he be fortunate enough to be your disciple?" Sima Qing asked.


    As he spoke, Sima Qing pped his hands lightly.


    A young boy soon walked over from a distance, his eyes full of intelligence, clearly a rare talent.


    The purple-robed man looked at Sima Qing and shook his head, "My lineage has never had sessors, and I do not need disciples."


    "Well, it seems my cousin does not have that fortune," Sima Qing nodded.


    With a wave of his hand, the young boy immediately left.


    "Master, Qingqiu is about to change rulers. Would you be interested in staying here?" Sima Qing quickly asked.


    "Qingqiu? Doesn''t Qingqiu already have a feng shui master?" The purple-robed man said indifferently.


    "Him? How can hepare to you? He only knows the superficial aspects of feng shui. Your feng shui skills are profound, and many techniques are unheard of! You are the true feng shui master!" Sima Qing praised quickly.


    Shaking his head, the purple-robed man said calmly, "I am used to being free and unfettered. Don''t say any more. Once you take over Qingqiu, I only need a hundred energy units."


    Seeing the purple-robed man''s refusal, Sima Qing frowned but ultimately nodded.


    The terrifying Entrapment Dragon Array was in full effect.


    Yellow fog permeated the area, obscuring everything in the distance. All that could be seen were powerful figures transforming into yellow dragons, forcibly altered by the array.


    Back in the Small Thousand World, the victims were mere mortals, but here, even immortals were powerless to resist. This array was far more terrifying.


    An ancient immortal, realizing the danger, saw no escape routes and abandoned the idea of seizing the Qiankun Cauldron. In a sh, he shot towards a distant direction, disappearing into the yellow fog.


    "Roar!"


    A deafening dragon''s roar echoed, and out of the yellow fog emerged a massive yellow dragon, ten times the size of the others.


    "Did that ancient immortal also turn into a yellow dragon?" someone eximed in shock.


    "Even ancient immortals can be transformed? What kind of array is this?"


    "I want to get out of here!"


    People shouted in panic, their perception shattered by the horror before them.


    But that wasn''t all. In the distance, two yellow dragons merged upon contact.


    "Whoosh!"


    The two dragons fused into an evenrger yellow dragon.


    "Ah!" The assembled strongmen gasped in shock.


    Fusion? These yellow dragons seemed to be merging endlessly, like rivers flowing into the sea.


    The yellow fog approached, turning more strong figures into yellow dragons. Escape was impossible.


    The sudden change terrified everyone.


    The Burning Lamp observed coldly, unafraid. Had he still been at the ancient immortal level, he might have been concerned, but now he was an Ancestral Immortal, a true powerhouse of the Grand Thousand World.


    Below the level of an Ancestral Immortal, all other powers were insignificant. Ancestral Immortals could wield the power of the Heavenly Dao, the greatest force in the world.


    Only Ancestral Immortals could truly contend for supremacy. A feng shui array was merely an obstacle.


    But who had set up this feng shui array?


    As the Burning Lamp pondered, his expression changed. He turned to see the Primordial Holy King and the Nine-tailed Princess heading towards the Qiankun Cauldron.


    "Boom!"


    The Burning Lamp struck, and two streams of red energy shot through the void, hitting the two women.


    "Ugh!" Both women spat blood simultaneously and copsed weakly in front of the Qiankun Cauldron, heavily injured. Was this the difference between an Ancestral Immortal and an ancient immortal?


    The Burning Lamp had only just broken through to the Ancestral Immortal level, yet the disparity was this vast?


    The gap between an Ancestral Immortal and those below it was indeed like heaven and earth, a world apart.


    Despair flickered in the eyes of the two women.


    "Zhong Shan!" The Nine-tailed Princess suddenly called out.


    "Throw us into the Qiankun Cauldron. The Qiankun Cauldron is invincible; even broken, it is a sage''s treasure. The yellow fog won''t harm us there!" The Primordial Holy King said.


    Hearing this, many strong figures rushed towards them, clearly not wanting to be turned into yellow dragons.


    "Hmph!" The Burning Lamp let out a cold snort.


    Around Fang Mountain, a wave of red energy surged outward, sending all the iing strong figures flying back.


    "Ahhh!"


    Screams filled the air as those enveloped by the yellow fog were transformed into cocoons, from which yellow dragons emerged. More and more yellow dragons appeared, growingrger and stronger as they gathered.


    The Burning Lamp watched coldly.


    Zhong Shan, however, had reached the two women. He picked them up, each in one arm, their frail bodies clinging weakly to his neck.


    He walked towards the Qiankun Cauldron, preparing to ce the two women inside.


    "No one touches the Qiankun Cauldron!" The Burning Lamp suddenly turned towards Zhong Shan.


    As he spoke, he reached out with a palm strike aimed at Zhong Shan.


    With a stern expression, Zhong Shan threw the two women into the cauldron. At the same time, the four tails of his Baji Heavenly Tail, resembling the Four Swords of Execution, unleashed a powerful force against the Burning Lamp.


    "Boom!"


    With a tremendous explosion, the Burning Lamp''s palm strike was repelled.


    The Burning Lamp''s face changed. He reached out with another palm strike, sending a stream of fiery red energy towards the Baji Heavenly Tail.


    "Boom!"


    Another enormous explosion urred as the Baji Heavenly Tail was sted to the ground, its eight tails going limp, its head drooping, severely injured.


    Too powerful! Was this the might of an Ancestral Immortal? With just one strike, the Baji Heavenly Tail was defeated?


    Zhong Shan''s eyes widened in shock. This was the first time the Baji Heavenly Tail had ever been so severely wounded!


    Ancestral Immortals were truly formidable.


    With a single strike, the Baji Heavenly Tail seemed to lose all its strength. With a thought, Zhong Shan withdrew the Baji Heavenly Tail into his Niwan Pce for healing.


    The disappearance of the Baji Heavenly Tail surprised the Burning Lamp.


    Although he didn''t know where it had gone, he knew it was severely injured and incapable of further resistance, just like the two women thrown into the Qiankun Cauldron. The Burning Lamp was confident they were now utterly powerless.


    Only Zhong Shan remained? Zhong Shan, a mere Heavenly Immortal? Without the Baji Heavenly Tail, he was just a Heavenly Immortal!


    As the Burning Lamp prepared to deal with Zhong Shan.


    "Roar!"


    A deep dragon''s roar came from the north.


    The yellow dragons had fused into one massive dragon. Almost all the ancient immortals had been transformed into yellow dragons, a sinister technique.


    The yellow dragon seemed controlled, devoid of consciousness.


    The once innumerable strong figures had all been transformed, and the yellow fog was gradually enveloping everything.


    Even Fang Mountain was not exempt.


    Only four people had not turned into dragons.


    The Burning Lamp, with the power of an Ancestral Immortal, could wield the Heavenly Dao and had not transformed.


    Sima Yuan and the Purple Cloud Sect Master had also not transformed.


    And thest one, unexpectedly, was Zhong Shan. Standing on Fang Mountain, surrounded by the yellow fog, he too had not transformed.


    Only one enormous yellow dragon remained. It slowly approached, exuding a vast aura.


    The Burning Lamp looked at the three. Which one of them was the mastermind?


    Suddenly, a golden light surrounded Sima Yuan, not just any light, but one with a metallic sheen. The golden light grew, and Sima Yuan charged into the yellow dragon.


    Instantly, the yellow dragon''s eyes gleamed with golden light, bing bright and focused.


    "Roar!"


    The yellow dragon let out a triumphant roar, looking arrogantly at the Burning Lamp.


    "Purple Cloud Sect Master, please eliminate Zhong Shan. I will handle the Burning Lamp!" The golden dragon suddenly spoke.

 Chapter 938: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Fierce Might

    <h4>Chapter 938: Zhong Shan''s Fierce Might</h4>


    The yellow dragon was under Sima Yuan''s control!


    This dragon was the collective power of all the strong figures transformed earlier. Though each individual was weaker than an ancient immortal, theirbined strength was terrifying.


    Sima Yuan had revealed information to draw in a multitude of powerful beings precisely for this moment.


    With the emergence of the formidable yellow dragon, Sima Yuan felt emboldened to challenge anyone.


    The yellow dragon''s w swiped at the Burning Lamp.


    As the w struck out, it seemed to create wrinkles in the void, with spatial distortions rippling outward.


    A vast and overwhelming w, carrying a seemingly world-ending force, capable of killing even ancient immortals.


    The Burning Lamp''s expression changed as he countered with a backhanded palm strike, causing the sky to fill with red light. The red light coalesced before the Burning Lamp, meeting the dragon''s w.


    The yellow dragon, standing ten thousand feet tall and exuding boundless might, faced the diminutive but Heavenly Dao-wielding Burning Lamp.


    "Boom!"


    A massive explosion sent a powerful shockwave through the air, turning everything in its path to dust.


    The sh seemed evenly matched.


    Meanwhile, the Purple Cloud Sect Master confronted Zhong Shan.


    The yellow fog enveloped Zhong Shan, who initially tried to defend against it. However, the fog seemed unstoppable, prating Zhong Shan''s body.


    Zhong Shan felt the violent nature of the fog, as if it wanted to forcibly alter his body and even his very bones. Yet, his bones felt like an unmovable mountain, unaffected by the yellow fog.


    Thus, Zhong Shan became one of the four not controlled by the fog.


    With the Baji Heavenly Tail severely injured and unusable, Zhong Shan faced the ancient immortal alone.


    The Purple Cloud Sect Master nced at the Qiankun Cauldron, then at Zhong Shan, knowing that Zhong Shan must be eliminated.


    Pointing at Zhong Shan, the Purple Cloud Sect Master unleashed an attack.


    "Boom!"


    A ten-foot-wide purple lightning bolt descended from the sky, aiming directly at Zhong Shan.


    This purple lightning bolt seemed to carry apocalyptic power, striking Zhong Shan almost instantly.


    "Sizzle!"


    With a muffled sound, the fierce purple lightning suddenly vanished. The Purple Cloud Sect Master''s face changed. Even a casual strike from him, an ancient immortal, should not be so easily neutralized by a mere heavenly immortal like Zhong Shan.


    Moreover, not even a heavenly immortal''s "world" should withstand his purple lightning.


    "Lightning? Did I not tell you? I also cultivate lightning," Zhong Shan said with a faint smile.


    Calm andposed, Zhong Shan''s demeanor unsettled the Purple Cloud Sect Master.


    "Is that so?" The Purple Cloud Sect Master said coldly.


    As he spoke, a long spear appeared in his hand, crackling with purple lightning.


    The Purple Cloud Sect Master pointed with the spear, sending a powerfulnce of energy towards Zhong Shan. The surrounding environment abruptly changed, as if they were suddenly within a pool of lightning, with terrifying bolts of electricity everywhere.


    This was the Purple Cloud Sect Master''s world.


    The Purple Cloud Sect Master''s world had its ownws, but Zhong Shan had his divine realm, which adhered to his body, making him immune to thews of the Purple Cloud Sect Master''s world.


    As the spear thrust towards him, Zhong Shan summoned a white scroll into his hand.


    As Zhong Shan unfurled the Emperor''s Scroll, it transformed from white to ck in an instant. The spear thrust into it as if piercing into a small world, with no effect whatsoever.


    "Thunderstorm!" The Purple Cloud Sect Master shouted coldly.


    From the thunder pool below, countless bolts of lightning surged upwards, engulfing Zhong Shan in an instant.


    "Explode!"


    However, Zhong Shan did not explode as the Purple Cloud Sect Master had expected. Instead, he absorbed the endless lightning like a bottomless pit.


    The Purple Cloud Sect Master was baffled: "What the...?"


    The overwhelming lightning, as if drawn by a deep-sea vortex, was quickly absorbed into Zhong Shan''s body��or rather, into his divine realm, where the Eye of Heavenly Punishment rapidly absorbed it.


    The thunderstorm from the thunder pool was mysteriously neutralized by Zhong Shan.


    The Purple Cloud Sect Master''s brow furrowed, but his arrogance remained.


    "Your body is absorbing my lightning? Fine, I''ll let you absorb it! Let''s see if you can handle it!" he shouted coldly.


    With hismand, more and more lightning surged towards the center.


    The amount of lightning generated by an ancient immortal was unimaginably vast. Such a quantity of lightning would be disastrous anywhere. Absorb it? Even the Purple Cloud Sect Master couldn''t guarantee he could handle it. Surely, if this much lightning entered Zhong Shan''s body, it would cause him to burst.


    But the Purple Cloud Sect Master was unaware of Zhong Shan''s unique attributes.


    Zhong Shan''s physique was inherently suited for lightning. His bones were as solid as mountains and as vast as oceans. Furthermore, his divine realm was designed to harness lightning. The only problem was if there wasn''t enough lightning.


    Endless bolts of lightning continued to pour into Zhong Shan, who seemed like a bottomless pit, unfazed.


    The Purple Cloud Sect Master''s expression started to change.


    For over half an hour, Zhong Shan showed signs of pain, but this was a facade. Each time the Purple Cloud Sect Master thought Zhong Shan had reached his limit, Zhong Shan continued to voraciously absorb more lightning.


    What kind of body did he have?


    An hour passed, and the Purple Cloud Sect Master''s face turned grim. Was Zhong Shan really a heavenly immortal? Why hadn''t he exploded yet?


    The Eye of Heavenly Punishment grew stronger with each bolt absorbed. There was no way Zhong Shan would explode.


    As the terrifying vortex drew in more and more lightning, the Purple Cloud Sect Master noticed that nearly half of his "world''s" lightning had been absorbed. The massive thunder pool had been reduced by nearly half.


    How was this possible?


    Cold sweat appeared on the Purple Cloud Sect Master''s forehead. He thrust his spear at Zhong Shan again, faster than Zhong Shan could react.


    Yet, the Emperor''s Scroll seemed to have a mind of its own, always precisely blocking the spear in front of Zhong Shan.


    Every thrust into the Emperor''s Scroll felt like striking into a small world, giving the Purple Cloud Sect Master the ufortable sensation of hitting nothing but cotton.


    After more than an hour, the Purple Cloud Sect Master''s face turned pale, realizing that Zhong Shan''s rate of lightning absorption had not decreased but had actually increased.


    "Whoosh!"


    The terrifying absorption continued, seemingly draining all the lightning. At this point, the Purple Cloud Sect Master found it difficult to stop, as Zhong Shan''s body generated a powerful suction force, aggressively drawing in the endless lightning.


    "You wretched creature!"


    The Purple Cloud Sect Master finally realized he had been tricked by Zhong Shan.


    With a flicker of his form, five identical Purple Cloud Sect Masters appeared, rushing towards Zhong Shan. The Purple Lightning Projections, a self-created divine ability, moved at such speed that Zhong Shan had no chance of escape.


    But did Zhong Shan need to escape? In a life-and-death battle, fleeing meant death!


    As the five Purple Lightning Projections closed in, a cold light shed in Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    "Purple Cloud Sect Master, you never learn, do you?"


    A massive purple eye suddenly appeared in front of Zhong Shan, an emotionless eye.


    With a single blink, the five Purple Lightning Projections exploded, transforming into a torrent of lightning absorbed by the purple eye.


    The purple eye vanished as quickly as it had appeared, but its power was undeniable.


    In that instant, the Purple Cloud Sect Master felt as though all beings were mere ants. The five projections had exploded without any resistance?


    The Purple Cloud Sect Master''s face turned pale. Clearly, using the Purple Lightning Projections was very consuming.


    "Stop!" the Purple Cloud Sect Master shouted.


    Enduring some bacsh, he finally halted Zhong Shan''s absorption of the lightning, though this event would surely haunt him as a nightmare.


    "How did you do that?" the Purple Cloud Sect Master asked incredulously.


    Zhong Shan had been under his watch for over a century as a mere heavenly immortal. When had he gained such abilities?


    Zhong Shan did not answer but said calmly, "Is it my turn now?"


    With a smile, Zhong Shan unfurled the Emperor''s Scroll, unleashing an infinite wave of blood. The blood wave was filled with countless wailing evil spirits, creating a horrifying scene.


    As the blood wave swept through, the Purple Cloud Sect Master''s world darkened.


    A terrifying corrosive force assaulted the Purple Cloud Sect Master''s mind.


    Defilement! The dreadful defilement was corrupting the Purple Cloud Sect Master''s world.


    It was the Vexation Miasma, drawn up from the underworld.


    Meanwhile, outside, only the battle between the Burning Lamp and the yellow dragon continued. Though evenly matched, both felt Zhong Shan''s presence.


    Zhong Shan had vanished, along with the Purple Cloud Sect Master.


    How could an ancient immortal take so long to defeat a heavenly immortal?


    "Boom!"


    An immense red light suddenly shot into the sky. The terrifying defilement dispersed arge portion of the yellow fog, releasing a vast amount of blood-red energy.


    The battle between the Burning Lamp and the yellow dragon halted abruptly as they looked in shock at the scene.


    The Purple Cloud Sect Master fighting Zhong Shan?


    Emerging from the Purple Cloud Sect Master''s world, the oue was unexpected.


    The Purple Cloud Sect Master looked pale and frustrated. Although uninjured, he was greatly exhausted.


    In contrast, Zhong Shan remained calm andposed, holding the Emperor''s Scroll before him, gazing proudly at the Purple Cloud Sect Master.


    It was the Purple Cloud Sect Master''s bad luck. Despite using numerous techniques, each was easily neutralized by Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shannded beside the Qiankun Cauldron, looking at the Purple Cloud Sect Master, the suddenly halted Burning Lamp, and the yellow dragon.


    "Purple Cloud Sect Master, does Zhong Shan have the strength of an ancient immortal?" the yellow dragon asked seriously.


    "No!"


    "No?"


    "No, my techniques were simply countered by him. I was careless!" the Purple Cloud Sect Master replied bitterly.


    "..."


    "No matter what, you, an ancient immortal, couldn''t defeat Zhong Shan. This Zhong Shan cannot be allowed to live!" the yellow dragon said sternly.


    "I also believe Zhong Shan cannot be allowed to live!" The Burning Lamp, now peculiarly aligned with the yellow dragon, agreed.


    The three supreme powerhouses turned their cold gazes towards Zhong Shan, determined to kill him today.


    Zhong Shan showed no fear. Facing these three formidable foes, he exuded confidence.


    "Kill me? Let''s see if you have the ability!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    At that moment, the Burning Lamp struck with a terrifying red wave, just as he had against the Baji Heavenly Tail. Simultaneously, the yellow dragon unleashed a dragon''s breath, aiming to annihte Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan held the Emperor''s Scroll, closing his eyes with a serious expression. His left eye remained shut while his right eye slowly opened.


    As the right eye opened, its pupil turned a deep blue, emitting a terrifying aura that spread to the heavens and earth.


    The endless yellow fog suddenly stilled, seemingly paralyzed by the terrifying gaze of the eye.


    The eighth level of the Red Luan Heavenly Sutra, the Fierce and Auspicious Dual Pupils, right eye of ferocity.


    The deadly fierce pupil opened!

 Chapter 939: The Fearsome Power of the Sinister Eye

    <h4>Chapter 939: The Fearsome Power of the Sinister Eye</h4>


    The moment his right eye opened, a terrifying aura instantly spread in all directions.


    Heaven and earth suddenly fell silent. The yellow mist halted abruptly, and even the currents generated by the three great powerhouses ceased.


    A sense of deep-seated danger suddenly brewed in the hearts of the three. It was a feeling of celestial might��vast, overwhelming, and indifferent to all beings!


    Among them, the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect felt an inexplicable sense of suffocation, a shiver from the depths of his soul!


    Staring at Zhong Shan''s blue eye, the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect suddenly felt an absurd notion: he was doomed.


    Yes, a sense of impending doom!


    He was merely an immortal! The leader of the Purple Cloud Sect roared internally, desperately trying to expel this soul-deep panic. Ridiculous, it was just a blue eye.


    Eye techniques, he had seen eye techniques before! Why did this one evoke such a reaction?


    Eye techniques, both Burning Lamp and the mighty Yellow Dragon recognized it as an eye technique, but they had never felt an eye technique like this. Just one open eye? What kind of eye technique was this?


    An eye technique with just one eye, yet it was incredibly terrifying. Seeing Zhong Shan''s blue pupil involuntarily reminded Burning Lamp of the gaze of a sage.


    Zhong Shan''s blue eye bore the gaze of a sage, especially the gaze of an enraged sage.


    Seeing this gaze, both Burning Lamp and Yellow Dragon felt a chill in their hearts, but their assaults on Zhong Shan became more intense and rapid! At the same time, they remained extremely vignt!


    The Sinister Eye, unleash!


    With a face full of anger, Zhong Shan''s right eye suddenly shot out a terrifying blue light, which swept towards the three great powerhouses like a nket covering the sky.


    "Whoooosh��������������������������������������������!"


    As the blue light shot out, the northern sky suddenly turned blue.


    The effect of the eye technique began!


    At the moment when the three great powerhouses felt a tightening in their hearts and tried to evade, the blue light seemed too fast to dodge, and moreover, they were in mid-attack.


    The urgent priority was defense, to ward off this blue light''s assault.


    Seeing the terrifying nature of Zhong Shan''s eye technique, the three great powerhouses went into highest alert.


    Before Burning Lamp appeared a greenntern, Yellow Dragon roared upwards, and the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect also fetched a shield-like magical treasure! Each defended themselves.


    Yet, the blue light was extremely bizarre, seemingly unstoppable by anything, directly prating through and shooting into the three great powerhouses'' bodies.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������!"


    A thunderous explosion startled the three, making them think the power of the eye technique had struck.


    However, the sound was strangely emanating from in front of Zhong Shan.


    The red stream unleashed by Burning Lamp and the dragon breath expelled by Yellow Dragon had, for some unknown reason, suddenly collided with each other. Perhaps the two powerhouses were too tense, or for some other reason. Anyway, these two terrifying energies collided before reaching Zhong Shan.


    The powerful collision even rebounded some energy back.


    The two powerhouses'' figures swayed slightly, but they exchanged curious nces.


    Neither Yellow Dragon nor Burning Lamp paid much attention to the rebound but were puzzled by the blue light. What was it? Why didn''t it cause any noticeable effect?


    Not far away, after Zhong Shan activated his sinister eye, he seemed to suddenly fall into a moment of lethargy. The blue pupil returned to normal, and his left eye also opened.


    It was as if nothing had happened.


    Nothing happened? Burning Lamp, Yellow Dragon, and the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect looked at Zhong Shan with puzzled expressions.


    All thunder and no lightning? The thunder was too loud, and the lightning too faint, wasn''t it?


    Was that it? The three exchanged bewildered nces.


    Well, for an immortal, having an eye technique with such a deterrent effect was already impressive.


    As the powerhouses internallyforted themselves, suddenly, the face of the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect changed drastically.


    "It''sing!" Zhong Shan thought to himself as he watched the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect.


    Burning Lamp and Yellow Dragon also fixed their gazes on the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect. Is the effect of the blue lighting?


    At this moment, the face of the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect changed dramatically. Suddenly, cold sweat poured down his forehead, and his eyes widened in disbelief.


    "How can this be? How can this happen?" the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect cried out incredulously.


    This terrifying scene left Burning Lamp and Yellow Dragon stunned. What was happening to the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect?


    "Boom��������������������������������������������!"


    With a thunderous explosion, brilliant lightning erupted around the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect, and suddenly, he exploded.


    Burning Lamp and Yellow Dragon gaped in shock.


    It wasn''t the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect who exploded, but something around him suddenly did.


    With a horrifying explosion, the spear and shield in the leader''s hands were sted into the sky, and he seemed to be at the very center of the explosion, with countless bolts of lightning radiating outward. The fierce lightning explosion left the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect in a miserable state, crashing to the ground.


    The air was filled with endless lightning, shadows of lightning everywhere, scorching the ground as if it had been charred.


    In the very center, where the lightning was most intense, the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect struggled to stand up, his face filled with horror.


    "My world, why did my world self-destruct? No, Zhong Shan had only damaged parts of my world earlier, but it was still under my control. Why did it suddenly deteriorate and explode? Zhong Shan, why?" the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect shouted.


    His world exploded?


    Burning Lamp and Yellow Dragon were equally stunned.


    At that moment, a dark shadow shed across the sky.


    "Boom!"


    Arge shield descended from the sky, smashing into the head of the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect, who had lost half his hair to the lightning, knocking him to the ground.


    It was the shield that the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect had been holding, the same shield that had been sted away earlier. His own shield?


    This was too coincidental, wasn''t it? sted directly overhead and then falling precisely on his head?


    The leader of the Purple Cloud Sect was incredibly unlucky, wasn''t he?


    Under the shield, the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect struggled to rise.


    "Boom!"


    The spear also fell, smashing precisely onto the head of the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect once again.


    The leader of the Purple Cloud Sect seemed dazed by the explosions, only reacting after being struck on the head.


    Too coincidental, too eerie! How could the explosion be so precise? Landing exactly on the leader''s head?


    Grabbing his two treasures, the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect quickly moved away from therge pit.


    At this moment, the appearance of the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect was utterly ridiculous. Most of his hair had been sted away, his entire body charred, and his clothes nearly burnt off, making him look like a piece of ckened charcoal. He held a spear in one hand and a shield in the other.


    Even more frustrating was the sudden realization that his spiritual imprint on these two treasures had beenpletely erased in the explosion. This meant that without refining them anew, he couldn''t store them back into his body.


    But that wasn''t the worst of it. The spirits of the two ancient immortal artifacts had also been destroyed in the explosion, and they would need a long time to be nurtured back into artifact spirits. Without them, they were just good materials.


    He could store them in his storage bracelet, right? But at that moment, he noticed threerge cracks had mysteriously appeared on his carefully crafted storage bracelet, indicating it was broken as well.


    The leader of the Purple Cloud Sect could only hold a treasure in each hand, standing dumbfounded in front of Zhong Shan.


    It all seemed like the leader''s own bad luck, but did this misfortune have anything to do with Zhong Shan?


    With a hint of weakness and fear, the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect looked at Zhong Shan. Burning Lamp and Yellow Dragon also turned their gazes towards Zhong Shan.


    At the same time, both felt a sudden unease within themselves.


    Sima Yuan, controlling Yellow Dragon, suddenly found that the previously responsive Yellow Dragon had be sluggish, as if it were on the verge of copsing.


    No way, Sima Yuan''s heart raced! If Yellow Dragon copses, wouldn''t that be a disaster for him? He hadn''t even obtained his Qiankun Cauldron yet!


    Burning Lamp also disyed a look of horror.


    He suddenly realized his cultivation realm seemed unstable. Having just reached the level of an Ancestral Immortal, he should have been consolidating his new realm, but he hadn''t had the time to stabilize it. Generally, once one achieved the status of an Ancestral Immortal, there would be no problem, but the feeling of instability now overwhelmed him.


    Unstable realm? Could he fall back to the Ancient Immortal realm?


    The thought terrified him. He had just begun to slightly manipte the heavenly way, and now it might be taken away from him?


    An unstable realm? Falling back to the Ancient Immortal realm? No, that couldn''t happen!


    Burning Lamp screamed internally, filled with fear.


    Was it his own instability? No, it was Zhong Shan.


    In an instant, both Burning Lamp and Sima Yuan turned their gazes to Zhong Shan. Was it the blue light from Zhong Shan?


    The Sinister Eye, with its blue light, brought misfortune upon them. The three powerhouses were indeed unlucky, each showing their weaknesses at the worst possible time.


    Burning Lamp felt increasingly uneasy, as did Sima Yuan. Meanwhile, the charred leader of the Purple Cloud Sect felt as if his misfortune had not yet cleared, with old ailments ring up.


    All three looked at Zhong Shan, their eyes filled with horror and resolve.


    Could this really be an immortal? Was he a monster?


    Could Zhong Shan be allowed to live? In that instant, the three powerhouses reached a consensus. They had to eliminate Zhong Shan now, even if it meant worsening their own injuries or further destabilizing their realms. Zhong Shan had to be destroyedpletely, right now, or the consequences would be unimaginable!


    "Roar!" "Ang!" "Go!"


    The three powerhouses attacked simultaneously.


    Yellow Dragon extended a giant w, Burning Lamp unleashed a red stream, and the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect hurled his spear!


    But as Yellow Dragon struck out, he felt a cramp in his w, causing it to veer off course.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������!"


    The three attacks collided disastrously again, nullifying each other with a loud explosion and rebounding slightly.


    The leader of the Purple Cloud Sect''s spear snapped into two pieces on the spot, and both Burning Lamp and Yellow Dragon staggered.


    Burning Lamp was dismayed to find his realm even more unstable, while Sima Yuan saw Yellow Dragon truly on the verge of copse, making him too afraid to move recklessly. He had to quickly absorb the distant yellow mist to strengthen his control. However, the recent explosion by the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect had driven the yellow mist too far away, making it extremely difficult and frustrating to absorb.


    Burning Lamp was the most frustrated. He was about to kill Zhong Shan, but Yellow Dragon had interfered, and the rebound of the energy had destabilized his realm even further.


    "Stop it, I''ll kill Zhong Shan alone!" Burning Lamp cried out in despair. He couldn''t afford any more disruptions, or he would truly fall back to the Ancient Immortal realm.

 Chapter 940: More Dominant Than the Mist of Red Luan

    <h4>Chapter 940: More Dominant Than the Mist of Red Luan</h4>


    "Stop, let me handle Zhong Shan alone!" Burning Lamp cried out in despair. He couldn''t afford any more chaos; another disruption and he would surely fall back to the Ancient Immortal realm.


    Burning Lamp''s words were exactly what Sima Yuan and the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect wanted to hear.


    Sima Yuan didn''t dare move, frustrated that Yellow Dragon seemed on the verge of copse. The distant yellow mist was too far away, making it extremely difficult to absorb.


    The leader of the Purple Cloud Sect was equally frustrated. Every encounter with Zhong Shan resulted in his misfortune. His spear had just broken, and attacking Zhong Shan again with a shield seemed absurd.


    As Burning Lamp prepared to eliminate Zhong Shan alone, Zhong Shan wasn''t idle. A torrent of dark energy surged from his Emperor''s Diagram, engulfing the surroundings. The entire area turned blood red, and endless ghosts screamed in torment within the dark energy.


    Zhong Shan knew that after the sinister eye''s disy, Yellow Dragon, Burning Lamp, and the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect were surrounded by misfortune. While their strength hadn''t decreased, they were under a significant omen of bad luck. He needed to stall for time��the longer he dyed, the worse their luck would be.


    The overwhelming dark energy flooded the area,pletely obscuring the entire mountain and blocking the powerhouses'' vision. Zhong Shan swiftly moved towards the Qiankun Cauldron, intending to take it and leave quickly.


    "Trying to escape?" Burning Lamp roared.


    He thrust his hand out, and a wave of red energy formed in the void, pressing towards Zhong Shan, forcibly dispersing the dark energy.


    Zhong Shan''s expression changed. The Emperor''s Diagram unfolded rapidly, and the severely injured Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail re-emerged, barely recovered, and the four Immortal Execution Swords met the attack head-on.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������!"


    Burning Lamp nowmanded the power of the heavenly way. Under its might, everything was an illusion.


    The dark energy exploded, scattering. The four Immortal Execution Swords of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail bent under the impact, nearly breaking. The red energy struck the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, causing it to tremble violently, almost shattering. Zhong Shan managed to retract it into his Niwan Pce at thest moment, preventing it from being obliterated.


    Even so, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was now critically injured, barely hanging on.


    Although the red energy diminished significantly, it still aggressively impacted the Emperor''s Diagram.


    With a loud noise, most of it was transmitted to theherworld, but a powerful shockwave still reached Zhong Shan through the Emperor''s Diagram.


    The tremor of the heavenly way was terrifying. Even a small amount was too much for Zhong Shan to withstand.


    Demonic Body Tempering! Seventh Layer!


    "Rumble!"


    Zhong Shan reached his strongest state, but even then, the tremor from the heavenly way was too much for him. His bones creaked as if they were all breaking.


    With sheer willpower, Zhong Shan forced himself to stay upright, staring coldly at Burning Lamp.


    Since the dawn of time, Zhong Shan had never been this severely injured!


    Zhong Shan was hurt, but Burning Lamp was in worse shape. Using the power of the heavenly way while his realm was unstable caused him to be repelled by the heavenly way, shaking his realm even more.


    Burning Lamp''s face turned pale, realizing he couldn''t move anymore. Another strike would definitely push him back to the Ancient Immortal realm.


    The difference between the Ancient Immortal and Ancestral Immortal realms might seem like just one step, but Burning Lamp had been stuck at this level for hundreds of thousands of years, reincarnating three times before finally breaking through. Was he really going to fall back again?


    A greenntern fell upon his head, forming a strong protective barrier. Burning Lamp sat down cross-legged, beginning to stabilize his realm with a tearful expression.


    This scene, witnessed by Sima Yuan and the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect, made it seem as though Zhong Shan had again managed to cause Burning Lamp significant trouble! Was Zhong Shan a monster? How had he managed that?


    Yellow Dragon, in a bid to avoid copsing, continuously absorbed the distant yellow mist. The leader of the Purple Cloud Sect, although charred and severely injured, and having suffered the copse of his world and a severe hit to his spiritual consciousness, was undeniably the most free to act at this moment and still powerful enough to overpower Zhong Shan.


    Kill Zhong Shan?


    The leader of the Purple Cloud Sect hesitated. Could he kill Zhong Shan in his current state? Did Zhong Shan still have more tricks up his sleeve?


    Zhong Shan ignored the hesitant leader of the Purple Cloud Sect and slowly walked to the Qiankun Cauldron. Gently lifting it, he began to float leisurely in one direction.


    The leader of the Purple Cloud Sect, seeing Zhong Shan about to leave, steeled his resolve and prepared to chase after him.


    "Bang!"


    The storage bracelet on his wrist suddenly exploded,pletely disintegrating. The explosion seemed to trigger an old injury from long ago, causing it to re up at the worst possible moment.


    Filled with frustration, the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect hurriedly stabilized his injuries.


    "My Yellow Dragon is falling apart. Quickly, forget about Zhong Shan for now! He''s as good as crippled in his current state. Within this grand formation, he can''t escape. Leader of the Purple Cloud Sect, absorb the yellow mist, merge it with Yellow Dragon, and together, let''s stabilize Yellow Dragon. We''ll eliminate Burning Lamp and then take the Qiankun Cauldron!" Sima Yuan shouted.


    Sima Yuan''s idea was sound. If they could control Yellow Dragon and eliminate the severely injured Burning Lamp, Zhong Shan would be at their mercy. The Walled Dragon Formation sealed off all exits��no one could escape, not even Zhong Shan at his peak, let alone now.


    The leader of the Purple Cloud Sect nodded, albeit reluctantly. Although he coveted the Qiankun Cauldron, he knew they could im itter. Their priority was to deal with Burning Lamp first.


    Zhong Shan, carrying the Qiankun Cauldron, flew into the distance, quickly disappearing from sight and entering the yellow mist.


    The yellow mist, which couldn''t affect Zhong Shan in his prime, now continuously damaged his heavily injured body.


    After only a short while in the yellow mist, Zhong Shan felt intense pain all over his body.


    He quickly moved towards the Qiankun Cauldron.


    The moment Zhong Shan entered the Qiankun Cauldron, his eyes widened.


    The two women he had thrown in earlier, Princess Nine-Tails and the Sacred King Taichu, were entangled with each other, their clothes stripped away, their faces flushed, seemingly affected by the Red Luan Mist, rubbing against each other and making soft sounds.


    What was this? They were the same person, interacting with themselves?


    This thought quickly passed, and Zhong Shan''s expression turned perplexed. He hadn''t released the Red Luan Mist, and even if he had, it shouldn''t affect two Ancient Immortals. What was going on?


    Then Zhong Shan noticed the peach-colored energy at the bottom of the Qiankun Cauldron. The energy swirled endlessly. Earlier, Zhong Shan had found it strange. Could it be this energy?


    A soft, sensual moan from Princess Nine-Tails broke his thoughts, sending a wave of seduction into Zhong Shan''s mind.


    Zhong Shan felt a shiver, his bones turning to jelly.


    "The charm of the Nine-Tailed Fox is indeed formidable," Zhong Shan murmured, shaking his head.


    At that moment, a surge of peach-colored energy rushed into Zhong Shan''s body.


    As soon as it entered, Zhong Shan''s body turned a bright red. This energy was more domineering than the Red Luan Mist. What was this?


    Zhong Shan was slightly rmed as the peach-colored energy surged into his mind, rapidly repairing the depletion of the Red Luan Lotus at his brow and pushing the evolution of the Red Luan Mist.


    Zhong Shan suddenly realized that this peach-colored energy had a significant effect on his Red Luan Heavenly Scripture.


    At the eighth level of the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture, Zhong Shan had tried everything to make it break through, but to no avail. Now, it seemed he had found the opportunity.


    Zhong Shan felt a surge of joy but knew he had to escape the ''Trapped Dragon Formation'' as soon as possible; otherwise, Sima Yuan would surely find him.


    After only a short time inside the cauldron, Zhong Shan emerged again, carrying the Qiankun Cauldron and flying rapidly towards the distance.


    However, the peach-colored energy could only repair the depletion of the Red Luan Lotus and not his injuries. As soon as he left the cauldron, the yellow mist began to erode his body once more. Unable to bear it, he would re-enter the cauldron, then emerge again when he felt slightly better, continuing this cycle as he flew westward.


    Zhong Shan knew of an exit from the Trapped Dragon Formation��Sima Zongheng''s location.


    The Trapped Dragon Formation was like a miniature world, a seemingly sealed environment extending from heaven to earth, forming arge circr space.


    In a valley, the depowered Sima Zonghengy on arge boulder, filled with frustration. He had already vomited a liter of blood, his face pale from blood loss, staring at a hundred-zhang-wide tear in the formation.


    "Patriarch, you must seed; otherwise, I, Zongheng, will bear the me for this!" Sima Zongheng weakly murmured.


    The formation could still function, and Sima Zongheng held onto a sliver of hope that the tear wasn''t significant.


    As Sima Zongheng continued to pray, a figure suddenly flew out of the tear.


    It was Zhong Shan! Carrying arge cauldron, he leisurely floated out.


    "The Qiankun Cauldron!" Sima Zongheng cried out.


    At that moment, Sima Zongheng realized that something major had gone wrong. This small tear had ruined the Patriarch''s grand n. The Qiankun Cauldron had just floated out right in front of him, but Sima Zongheng was powerless, a failure for which he couldn''t escape the me even in death.


    Another mouthful of blood surged up his chest, but he forced it back down.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s speed, Sima Zongheng suddenly realized Zhong Shan was severely injured. Such a slow pace indicated extreme injury. In his previous state, Sima Zongheng could have crushed him with a finger and taken the Qiankun Cauldron.


    Watching the cauldron float away, Sima Zongheng couldn''t hold back any longer.


    "Puh!" "Puh!"


    A series of blood vomitster, Sima Zongheng weakly closed his eyes, drawing hisst breath.


    Thus, Sima Zongheng became the first immortal to die from excessive blood loss, a story that would surely be aughingstock among other cultivators if discovered.


    Zhong Shan flew out of the Trapped Dragon Formation, but fearing detection by other powerhouses, he didn''t fly too far. Finding a secluded valley outside the danger zone, he hid with the Qiankun Cauldron, setting up several formations before quickly retreating into the cauldron.


    As soon as he entered, two delicate bodies entwined around him, pulling him deeper into the Qiankun Cauldron.

 Chapter 941 - 943: Ancestor Xue Mei

    <h4>Chapter 941: Chapter 943: Ancestor Xue Mei</h4>


    On the peak of a mountain in Nuwa''s realm!


    Ying stood with his hands behind his back, with Bai Qi and Guiguzi standing behind him.


    In front of them was a trembling man, seemingly recounting something continuously.


    "Alright, you can leave now," Ying said calmly.


    The man was clearly stunned, raising his head with a look of disbelief at Ying. Was he really being let go?


    "Still not leaving? Do you want me to send you off?" Bai Qi red, his eyes filled with a murderous aura that made the man tremble with fear.


    "Thank you, Senior! Thank you, Senior!" The man expressed his gratitude repeatedly and then fled in terror.


    "There really are some who aren''t afraid of death, daring to trouble us," Guiguzi, shrouded in a ck robe, let out a softugh.


    "Sage King, why didn''t you let me kill him?" Bai Qi asked with a frown, ring hatefully at the departing figure.


    "Killing someone insignificant serves no purpose. But he did bring us some useful information," Ying said lightly.


    Guiguzi nodded and added, "Indeed, with the Qiankun Cauldron emerging, the next target is the Demon Summoning Banner! We must find it quickly!"


    "Hmm," Ying nodded slightly.


    "It seems that Zhong Shan has broken through again?" Bai Qi frowned.


    "Zhong Shan? This person grows stronger with each setback. It''s inevitable. If he were to stagnate, that would be strange," Guiguzi shook his head.


    "Sir, do you think Zhong Shan will leave Nuwa''s realm?" Bai Qi asked.


    "We have one more opportunity to meet him," Guiguzi said faintly.


    With Guiguzi''s statement, it was clear that Zhong Shan was still in the realm.


    "We need to find the Demon Summoning Banner first. It cannot fall into Confucius''s hands!" Ying said calmly.


    "Yes!" Bai Qi responded immediately��


    In another valley within Nuwa''s realm!


    Many powerful individuals stood in the valley, all dressed in white robes embroidered with plum blossoms. In the valley, there was also a small thatched hut.


    The hut was built from purple thatch, looking extremely rustic. The white-robed individuals all looked at the hut with reverence.


    Slowly, the door of the hut opened, and Ancestor Xue Mei emerged.


    Ancestor Xue Mei waved hisrge sleeve, and the hut was put away.


    "Master!"


    "Ancestor!"


    The disciples immediately bowed respectfully.


    Ancestor Xue Mei frowned slightly.


    "Master, is it true that Junior Brother...?" one of the disciples asked quickly.


    "Yes, he is dead, along with the Reverse Flow Beast, killed by Zhong Shan!" Ancestor Xue Mei said calmly.


    His tone was indifferent, neither angry nor sad, as if it were a trivial matter.


    "Zhong Shan? It was him?" The disciples were filled with anger.


    "We must avenge Junior Brother!"


    "And the Reverse Flow Beast!"


    ... The disciples fumed with rage, but one disciple standing beside Ancestor Xue Mei did not join in the anger. Instead, he looked towards Ancestor Xue Mei.


    "Master, what should we do next? The Qiankun Cauldron has been taken by Zhong Shan, and he might have even left Nuwa''s realm. Should we continue searching for the cauldron?" the disciple asked immediately.


    "The Qiankun Cauldron is broken. At best, it''s now just a treasure of the Ancestral Immortal level. There''s no need to pursue it. Our goal this time isn''t the Qiankun Cauldron but the Demon Summoning Banner! However..." Ancestor Xue Mei frowned.


    "Master, what''s the matter?"


    "The Demon Summoning Banner... the Demon Summoning Banner..." Ancestor Xue Mei shook his head without saying more.


    Nuwa''s realm was in an uproar due to Zhong Shan obtaining the Qiankun Cauldron.


    People searched everywhere, but for two months, there was no trace of Zhong Shan.


    In the sky, a pair of cultivators were conversing.


    "Senior Brother, do you think Zhong Shan might have left?"


    "Unlikely. ording to Sima Yuan, Zhong Shan was severely injured and is probably just healing somewhere, hiding!"


    "But Senior Brother, since Zhong Shan is so weak and carrying such arge cauldron, could he have been killed by other strong cultivators? Maybe the Qiankun Cauldron isn''t with him anymore?"


    "..."


    After two months without finding any trace of Zhong Shan, everyone started to feel uneasy. Could Zhong Shan already be dead?


    Over two months had passed. Gradually, some lost their patience, but many continued searching.


    They were convinced that Zhong Shan was hiding somewhere, attempting to refine the Qiankun Cauldron. If he seeded, it would be much harder to take it from him. They had to find him quickly.


    "I found him! Zhong Shan is here!" A delighted shout came from outside a valley.


    Outside the valley, there appeared to be only a single man in a red robe. After his shout, he instantly regretted it.


    "Whoosh!"


    Suddenly, seventy to eighty cultivators flew to the empty valley, all of whom were stronger than the man in the red robe.


    The red-robed man wanted to p himself. He looked at the others with teary eyes, wishing to say, "I found this ce," but no one cared. All eyes were on the valley, which was wrapped in numerous formations.


    Everyone took out their treasures.


    "Break������������������������������������������������!"


    With a loud bang, Zhong Shan''s first protective barrier was shattered.


    Zhong Shan was powerful, but ultimately just a Great Immortal. The formations he set up were strong but couldn''t withstand therge number of people breaking them.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    ... It didn''t take long for eighteen formations to bepletely destroyed.


    This revealed a massive pce in the valley.


    "This is indeed the architectural style of the Daqing Holy Court, and this pce is the type Zhong Shan likes the most!" someone knowledgeable eximed excitedly.


    With this confirmation, everyone grew even more excited.


    Was Zhong Shan really here? Inside this pce? What was he doing? Refining the Qiankun Cauldron? He must be refining the Qiankun Cauldron!


    However, at this moment, no one dared to rush in.


    Was Zhong Shan really just a ''Heavenly Immortal''? Bullshit! Who still believed Zhong Shan was at the Heavenly Immortal level now?


    Burning Lamp had reached the Ancestral Immortal realm at that time, and Sima Yuan had gathered immense power, but in the end, they were both yed by Zhong Shan. Thinking back to the appearance of the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect two months ago, everyone felt a chill in their hearts. The sight of his charred exterior had left a deep impact on everyone.


    Despite being surrounded by so many powerful beings, Zhong Shan managed to leave safely with the Qiankun Cauldron. Who still dared to say he was "just a Heavenly Immortal" at this point?


    Everyone''s spiritual senses were probing the Qiankun Cauldron, ready to react at any moment, gripping their treasures tightly.


    From the doorway of the pce, a faint peach-colored mist drifted out, puzzling the onlookers. One person extended his spiritual sense into the mist, only to find his face flushing red and his body feeling as if his blood was flowing backward, igniting a hot sensation.


    It wasn''t just this one person; everyone else felt the same. They had assumed there would be no problem with probing the mist with their spiritual senses, but the situation was moreplicated than they thought.


    "Boom!"


    One person didn''t use spiritual sense but instead sted open the door with a treasure.


    As the door burst open, arge amount of peach-colored mist surged out, quickly enveloping everyone outside. The area was soon filled with this peach-colored energy.


    The loud noise startled Zhong Shan awake.


    He suddenly became alert and sat up to clear his mind. Soon, he recalled everything from two months ago.


    "Eya!" The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail suddenly jumped out.


    It waspletely healed, as if it had never been injured.


    "What a powerful Auspicious Eye!" Zhong Shan marveled.


    He stood up, walked out of the pce, and retrieved it with a wave of his hand.


    Surrounded by the Red Luan Mist, Zhong Shan was unaffected and could clearly see the powerful cultivators around him.


    Seeing their expressions, Zhong Shan''s face darkened.


    "Disgusting!" Zhong Shan snorted coldly.


    One of the tails of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tailshed out, scattering a sky full of sword energy.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    The powerful cultivators were instantly turned to dust, and the surrounding mountains were shattered.


    Zhong Shan retracted the Red Luan Mist and flew out of the valley, heading in a chosen direction, leaving behind a field of ruins.


    Over the next ten days, Zhong Shan learned about the events of the past two months. People were still gathering in Nuwa''s realm, convinced that Nuwa''s treasure hadn''t left yet.


    Looking for the Demon Summoning Banner? Zhong Shan doubted he had that kind of luck. Without any clues, how could he find it? Now, it seemed like the whole world was looking for him. Showing himself would be courting trouble. Therefore, Zhong Shan found a secluded valley to stay in, venturing out once a day to gather information.


    One day, while fishing alone by a smallke, Zhong Shan suddenly sensed a change. He looked up at a nearby mountain peak.


    Atop the peak, Ancestor Xue Mei and his disciples stood, all ring at Zhong Shan.


    Ancestor Xue Mei''s expression was calm, but his disciples were seething with anger.


    Zhong Shan dropped his fishing rod and stood up, looking at Ancestor Xue Mei.


    "Since you''re here,e down!" Zhong Shan said calmly.


    With a step, Ancestor Xue Mei led his disciples down to stand in front of Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, you killed my junior brother. Today is the day you die!"


    "Zhong Shan, we finally found you. Today, you won''t escape. I''ll use your blood to avenge my senior brother!"


    ... The disciples shouted angrily.


    Zhong Shan, however, kept his eyes fixed on Ancestor Xue Mei.


    "Ancestor Xue Mei, we''ve never interfered with each other. Do you really need to keep causing me trouble? Even sacrificing your disciple''s life? Did you deliberately send him to find me?" Zhong Shan said calmly.


    At Zhong Shan''s words, Ancestor Xue Mei''s disciples suddenly fell silent. They looked at Ancestor Xue Mei and then turned their furious gazes back to Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, how dare you nder our master!" one of Ancestor Xue Mei''s disciples shouted angrily.


    Zhong Shan nced at the disciple with a disdainful smile, then looked deeply at Ancestor Xue Mei.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/Jw-q2euGywY

 Chapter 942: The Peerless Auspicious Eye! Open!

    <h4>Chapter 942: The Peerless Auspicious Eye! Open!</h4>


    Zhong Shan put on a loose robe and slowly flew out of the Qiankun Cauldron. The matters he had to face still needed to be addressed. The two women were waiting outside the cauldron, awaiting Zhong Shan''s emergence.


    As he exited the cauldron andnded in front of the two women, they were dressed in goose-yellow skirts, their faces slightly flushed, making them appear even more alluring.


    The two women stared at Zhong Shan.


    Frowning, Zhong Shan took a deep breath and said, "Earlier in the Qiankun Cauldron..."


    "Nothing happened earlier!" Saint King Taichu suddenly interjected.


    Looking at Saint King Taichu, Zhong Shan immediately understood her meaning. Like Zixun, Saint King Taichu was also a stubborn woman.


    Princess Nine-Tails furrowed her brows as she looked at Zhong Shan. Their gazes were filled withplexity.


    Nodding slightly, Zhong Shan said calmly, "Alright, let''s say nothing happened. But I won''t forget it."


    Zhong Shan had intended to express his gratitude for their help, as it was because of them that he had broken through to the Great Immortal realm. However, to Saint King Taichu, his words seemed to imply he wouldn''t forget the events inside the cauldron.


    After all, while his consciousness had been unclear at the time, his memory had notpletely vanished and he retained most of it.


    "You!" Saint King Taichu''s face showed anger.


    Princess Nine-Tails'' expression was equallyplex.


    The two women seemed simr yet different in temperament, making Zhong Shan unsure of what to think.


    After a slight rise and fall of her chest, Saint King Taichu coldly looked at Zhong Shan and said, "If it weren''t for Rou Niang stopping me, you''d be a corpse by now!"


    Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow, "Rou Niang?"


    At this, Princess Nine-Tails suddenly spoke, "I am Su Rou Niang, and she is Su Mei Niang."


    Su Rou Niang? Zhong Shan looked at the gentle-looking Princess Nine-Tails and nodded slightly.


    Stopping her? It seemed that although Su Rou Niang and Su Mei Niang were split from one entity, their personalities differed, simr to Bao''er and the Central Sect Leader!


    At this moment, Zhong Shan naturally didn''t want to argue with them. Looking at Saint King Taichu, Su Mei Niang, he thought for a moment and asked, "Were you waiting for me to wake up?"


    "We want to take the Qiankun Cauldron with us," Su Rou Niang said softly.


    "The Qiankun Cauldron?" Zhong Shan frowned, realizing he seemed to have developed a faint connection with it. Could it be?


    Looking at the Qiankun Cauldron, Zhong Shan wondered if it had recognized him as its master. No way! Was it the peach-colored energy?


    "We three are now all masters of the Qiankun Cauldron, as long as you don''t make things difficult," Su Rou Niang said softly.


    All three of us? Masters?


    Indeed, after the baptism of the peach-colored energy, he could slightly control the Qiankun Cauldron.


    Seeing the two women, Zhong Shan did not argue and nodded straightforwardly.


    Saint King Taichu, Su Mei Niang, seemed slightly surprised, while Su Rou Niang smiled faintly.


    After giving Zhong Shan aplicated look, Su Mei Niang extended her hand and pointed at the Qiankun Cauldron. Although broken, its shape remained intact. With her gesture, the cauldron suddenly shrank, bing the size of a fingernail, and was immediately taken into her sleeve.


    "Huh?" Zhong Shan was slightly stunned.


    The Qiankun Cauldron, which all three could control, had been reduced in size by Su Mei Niang? How was that possible?


    Noticing Zhong Shan''s confusion, Su Rou Niang immediately exined, "This Qiankun Cauldron originally came from our Qingqiu! That''s why we know how to operate it!"


    "Qingqiu?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    "It''s time to go," Su Mei Niang said, shaking her head.


    Su Rou Niang looked at Zhong Shan, then said, "We are returning to Qingqiu. There is another treasure within Nuwa''s realm that originally belonged to the fox n, but now many Ancestral Immortals have arrived, and we certainly won''t be able to obtain it."


    "Another treasure of the fox n?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "If you wish to stay, you can see for yourself. The other treasure is called the ''Demon Summoning Banner,'' one of Nuwa''s most precious artifacts. It originally belonged to Qingqiu, but after Qingqiu''s decline, it could not be retained and was borrowed by Nuwa. I imagine the Ancestral Immortals are here for this Demon Summoning Banner," Su Rou Niang exined thoughtfully.


    After speaking, the two women ignored Zhong Shan and vanished from his sight in a sh, leaving him behind.


    Zhong Shan fell into silence.


    Qingqiu? Green Mountain? What does it mean? He had originally thought it was merely the fox n''s stronghold, but it seemed much moreplex. Burning Lamp appeared to have a particr aversion to Green Mountain, and Saint Nuwa, who used materials from Qingqiu for the Qiankun Cauldron? The legendary Demon Summoning Banner, said to summon all the world''s demons, was also a treasure of Qingqiu?


    There were indeed many secrets within Qingqiu and Green Mountain!


    Zhong Shan''s mind raced, analyzing the influx of information, but it was too sparse to draw any concrete conclusions. Shaking his head, Zhong Shan dismissed the impractical thoughts.


    With Su Mei Niang and Su Rou Niang gone, Zhong Shan turned his focus inward to examine his transformation.


    Great Immortal Realm! Second Heaven! Demonic Body Tempering! Ninth Layer! Red Luan Heavenly Scripture! Ninth Layer! Red Luan Heavenly Scripture at the ninthyer, with the manifestation of the heavenly way?


    The evolved spiritual energy surged into Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    The world before Zhong Shan''s eyes changed abruptly.


    The rules of heaven and earth, thews of the heavenly way, all became vividly clear before him. Zhong Shan marveled at these heavenlyws, realizing that he could now manipte thesews for his own use. Against enemies below the Great Immortal level, he would be invincible!


    But these heavenlyws were just the beginning.


    In the distance, Zhong Shan suddenly saw massive columns stretching from heaven to earth. These pirs seemed to be infinitelyrge, epassing everything, yet somehow thin and delicate, visible in great detail to Zhong Shan.


    The pirs, standing in the distance, came in various colors and appeared incredibly majestic. Seeing these pirs, Zhong Shan felt an almost involuntary sense of reverence, as ancient, primal energy emanated from them.


    In an instant, Zhong Shan recalled a simr scene from before.


    In the Underworld''s Wheel Hall, when the seal on Guo Shi Fu was lifted, a massive pir had shed and disappeared. When a saint arrived, another pir stretching from heaven to earth appeared briefly.


    The heavenly way? This was the heavenly way!


    Three thousand heavenly ways!


    Typically, only peak Ancient Immortals could see the heavenly way, and Ancestral Immortals could begin to manipte its power. Yet Zhong Shan, despite being in the Great Immortal realm, could already see the heavenly way. An extraordinary ability.


    Should he try to manipte it?


    Zhong Shan attempted to control it, but s, he was still just a Great Immortal. Being able to see the heavenly way was already remarkable; actual maniption was beyond his reach.


    Ultimately, there was a significant benefit to seeing the heavenly way and the endlessws of heaven and earth. Zhong Shan could transmit what he saw to the Eye of Heavenly Retribution in the Divine Realm. This would undoubtedly make the Eye of Heavenly Retribution even more formidable.


    "Buzz!" Zhong Shan''s hands trembled slightly.


    Suddenly, his hands began to glow faintly silver. Dozens ofws seemed to be connected to his hands, and thesews were mysteriously linked to a distant heavenly way.


    The Heaven-Opening Palm?


    The Heaven-Opening Palm, the lead of the heavenly way! Was this a link to one of the heavenly ways?


    Zhong Shan''s heart raced with excitement. Could he manipte this heavenly way?


    However, after trying for a while, Zhong Shan finally understood what it meant to shake a tree like a fly�� the heavenly way was too vast, and with his current strength as a Great Immortal, he couldn''t move it. What a pity!


    Shaking his hands, Zhong Shan stopped focusing on the heavenly way.


    Zhong Shan extended his right hand, and the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail appeared in his palm.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail looked deformed, severely injured, as if it might copse at any moment.


    "Burning Lamp?" Zhong Shan''s heart grew cold.


    The four Immortal Execution Swords on the tail seemed bent and broken. The whole tail swayed weakly as if it could break away from Zhong Shan at any moment.


    What to do? Swallow? The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail seemed too weak even to swallow anything.


    Frowning deeply for a while, Zhong Shan''s eyes suddenly brightened as he thought of a method.


    Reaching out with his other hand, Zhong Shan quickly created a massive formation, then took out a pce. He stepped inside and closed the door.


    Inside the dark hall, Zhong Shan held the dying Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail in his hands, a look of determination in his eyes.


    Closing his eyes, Zhong Shan quickly mobilized the power of the Red Luan Lotus, gathering it in his left eye.


    With his right eye closed, Zhong Shan struggled to open his left eye. In the past, he couldn''t open it, but now, though it was very difficult, he managed to open it slowly.


    As his left eye opened, a faint red light shone out, a bright red color.


    The auspicious eye of the double pupils of fortune and misfortune!


    Auspicious Eye, open!


    As the auspicious eye opened, Zhong Shan felt a vast aura gathering from all directions into his left eye. Zhong Shan was deeply regretful because, with the auspicious eye open, he could no longer see the heavenly way. Perhaps this power came from the heavenly way itself.


    "Peerless Auspicious Eye, open!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    "Whoosh!"


    A vast red light shot out from Zhong Shan''s left eye, illuminating the entire hall.


    The consumption was terrifying. Just opening his left eye made Zhong Shan feel as if he werepletely drained. His whole body felt indescribably exhausted, on the verge of copse, and fainting.


    The consumption was too exaggerated!


    "Eya, eya, eya..."


    The red light enveloped the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, and endless energy from heaven and earth poured into its body. The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail seemed incredibly excited, quickly absorbing the energy. Its injuries were healing at a terrifying speed.


    In the blink of an eye, it seemed as if the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail had fully recovered, bouncing up excitedly.


    Zhong Shan, exhausted, nced at the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, and with a thought, he put it away, then suddenly copsed.


    Exhausted and unconscious!


    Of course, in the moment before he lost consciousness, Zhong Shan instinctively released arge amount of the evolved Red Luan Mist to surround the area.


    "Thud!" Zhong Shan fell to the ground, unconscious.


    While Zhong Shan was unconscious, his legend spread outside.


    After being subjected to various torments, Sima Yuan finally revealed everything. How could he not? Surrounded by three to four dozen Ancient Immortals, under the curse of misfortune, any further stubbornness would mean having his soul extracted and refined!


    Zhong Shan had obtained the Qiankun Cauldron, and news quickly spread throughout Nuwa''s realm. Countless powerhouses scoured the realm, searching for any trace of Zhong Shan, because everyone knew that the Qiankun Cauldron couldn''t be taken away or stored in a storage bracelet, and even a saint couldn''t refine such a treasure instantly.


    The entrance to Nuwa''s realm was blocked by a multitude of strong cultivators, with more searching every corner of the realm. Even if they had to dig ten thousand feet underground, they were determined to find Zhong Shan.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/Jw-q2euGywY

 Chapter 943 - 941: The Earth Cauldron

    <h4>Chapter 943: Chapter 941: The Earth Cauldron</h4>


    The Trapped Dragon Formation extended from the heavens to the earth, attracting numerous powerful onlookers, with more and more strong cultivators arriving from all directions. They stopped outside the grand formation.


    "Is this a feng shui formation? How can there be such a formation?" an uninformed onlooker asked.


    "Because inside is Nuwa''s relic, the Qiankun Cauldron!" replied a seasoned expert.


    "The Qiankun Cauldron? The Qiankun Cauldron is in there?"


    "That''s right. The news has been out for a while. I was dyed by some matters, or I might have arrived earlier. If I had gotten here sooner, I might have been able topete with the other powerhouses for the Qiankun Cauldron," the expert said.


    "Dyed by some matters? With your speed? Stop ttering yourself. You must have just arrived after flying here non-stop!" another person teased.


    "Believe what you want!" the expert blushed, retorting hastily.


    "Well, I want to go in!" the first person dered immediately.


    "Go in? Forget it! Even an Ancient Immortal tried earlier and couldn''t break the formation! Just wait. After the battle inside, the Qiankun Cauldron will eventuallye out, and you might have a chance then!"


    Outside the Trapped Dragon Formation, more and more powerful cultivators gathered, as this focal point was toopelling to ignore.


    Inside, the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect abandoned using secret methods to resist the yellow mist, allowing it to envelop him. He transformed into a yellow dragon, merging with Sima Yuan''s giant yellow dragon.


    With the leader''s addition, Sima Yuan felt significantly better, able to control the dragon more effectively. Although still a bit awkward, he managed to maintain control.


    "Roar��������������������������������������������!"


    The yellow dragon roared and wed at Burning Lamp.


    Burning Lamp, sitting cross-legged with a greenntern above his head, was fully focused on stabilizing his Ancestral Immortal realm.


    While stabilizing his realm, Burning Lamp was filled with sorrow. How could he be so unlucky? The Ancestral Immortal realm? Historically, no one had ever fallen from the Ancestral Immortal realm unless through reincarnation.


    But his realm was unstable, teetering on the brink of copse. Oh heavens, he had endured for hundreds of thousands of years for this realm! What had he done to deserve this?


    After some effort, Burning Lamp finally managed to stop the decline, though he could only achieve a bnce between ''stabilizing'' and ''copsing''. If he stopped stabilizing, he would immediately fall back to the Ancient Immortal realm. But at least halting the decline was a good sign. He continued to stabilize.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������!"


    A loud explosion echoed as a dragon w struck Burning Lamp''s protective barrier.


    The me on the greenntern flickered violently, as if about to extinguish.


    Burning Lamp: "@#��%...&"


    Burning Lamp cursed Sima Yuan bitterly in his heart.


    "Boom��������������������������������������������!"


    Another dragon w struck. Under the terrifying impact, the void trembled, and the greenntern''s barrier finally gave way. Thentern extinguished, and the powerful shield shattered, with the residual force rushing towards Burning Lamp. He countered with a palm strike.


    A red stream shot towards the yellow dragon, creating a deafening sound.


    Burning Lamp''s palm strike repelled the yellow dragon, demonstrating the might of an Ancestral Immortal once more.


    "Buzz��������������������������������������������!"


    After repelling the yellow dragon, Burning Lamp''s body trembled. Suddenly, he looked up at the sky.


    "No��������������������������������������������!"


    Burning Lamp cried out in despair. He had fallen back to the Ancient Immortal realm. After all his efforts, he was finally reduced to his previous state.


    The hard-earned achievements of hundreds of thousands of years were reverted to their original state in one move, and Burning Lampmented this bitterly to the heavens.


    Sima Yuan, not understanding what had happened, was enraged after being repelled by Burning Lamp''s palm strike. He charged madly at Burning Lamp again.


    "Boom!" "Boom!" "Boom!" ... Under the renewed assault, Burning Lamp was once again suppressed by the Yellow Dragon. As a peak Ancient Immortal, he could not mobilize the power of the heavenly way, putting him at a significant disadvantagepared to an Ancestral Immortal.


    However, the intensebativeness in Burning Lamp was ignited. Having fallen from the Ancestral Immortal realm, he was bent on revenge,unching rapid attacks despite being suppressed.


    Sima Yuan felt a brief joy at suppressing Burning Lamp but soon noticed something was amiss. The Yellow Dragon was bing increasingly difficult to control and felt more and more sluggish.


    The real issue was even more shocking: Sima Yuan noticed that the essence of the Yellow Dragon was leaking continuously! How could this be? The essence was leaking?


    As the Yellow Dragon weakened, Burning Lamp''s counterattacks seemed to grow stronger.


    Finally, as Sima Yuan fought Burning Lamp to a standstill, he realized the problem.


    The Trapped Dragon Formation was iplete. Who had made a mistake?


    "Roar��������������������������������������������!"


    The enraged Yellow Dragon roared to the heavens. Sima Yuan swore that once this was over, he would find the person responsible for the mistake and punish them severely.


    After battling Burning Lamp for a while longer...


    "Boom��������������������������������������������!"


    The Yellow Dragon suddenly exploded.


    Outside, the massive formation also copsed abruptly, disappearingpletely.


    "Hurry, the feng shui formation is broken! Let''s go in!"


    "Quick, get in there before the Qiankun Cauldron escapes!"


    "No one is going to take it from me!"


    ... Numerous powerhouses rushed inward.


    With the copse of the Yellow Dragon, Sima Yuan and the leader of the Purple Cloud Sect were exposed once more. Burning Lamp red at the two culprits with fury.


    As many powerhouses rushed into the area, the unconscious experts began to wake up. Many Ancient Immortals opened their eyes, each looking angrily at the three in the center, particrly at Sima Yuan.


    Sima Yuan''s journey of misfortune had truly begun��


    Meanwhile, in the valley where Zhong Shan was hiding, inside the Qiankun Cauldron...


    Zhong Shan was entangled with two soft bodies. Sensations from their skin contact flooded into Zhong Shan''s mind.


    "Hu!"


    "Hu!"


    "Mmm������������ Mmm��������������"


    The soft gasps filled Zhong Shan''s ears. The three were entirely enveloped in a peach-colored energy.


    The peach-colored energy surged into Zhong Shan''s body, heading straight for the Red Luan Lotus at his brow.


    This energy, more dominating than any before, was overwhelming even for Zhong Shan''s Red Luan Lotus.


    In a state of half-consciousness, Zhong Shan entered a state of intoxication. In this state, he felt his clothes being slowly torn away and his body uncontrobly reacting.


    Two soft bodies sat in hisp, and Zhong Shan''s body instinctively began to perform actions befitting the situation.


    In a dreamlike trance, Zhong Shan seemed to hear a loud, thunderous crash. Amidst the euphoria and fervor, he envisioned a massive green mountain shooting skyward, apletely green peak piercing the clouds and standing tall between heaven and earth!


    The imposing green mountain rose, apanied by a thunderous roar that reverberated in Zhong Shan''s mind.


    Green mountain? The rise of a green mountain?


    As the green mountain ascended, Zhong Shan seemed to hear a bone-meltingly sweet moan.


    "Mmm��������������������������������������������!"


    With that moan, Zhong Shan''s body seemed to resonate with a simr thunderous sound, as if breaking through a bottleneck, filling him with an unprecedented sense of pleasure! His movements became even more intense.


    Mountain is Gen!


    "Body of the Gen Cauldron?" In his dazed state, this phrase inexplicably surfaced in Zhong Shan''s mind!


    Completely driven by instinct, Zhong Shan seemed utterly engrossed. Perhaps, after this, the only memory left in Zhong Shan''s mind would be that vague and boundless joy.


    He didn''t know how long it took, but gradually, Zhong Shan''s consciousness began to clear again. The first thing he perceived was the Red Luan Lotus at his brow.


    The lotus now had some peach-colored stamens at its core. The stem below had grown sturdier, and a clear, pool-like liquid surrounded the Red Luan Lotus.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan instinctively recalled a saying: "The ninth level of the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture, the emergence of the lotus pool, the manifestation of the heavenly way!"


    The ninth level of the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture? The manifestation of the heavenly way?


    The peach-colored energy... Zhong Shan sensed that with his urging, the Red Luan Mist had transformed, no longer the same as before but instead taking on a peach-colored hue.


    Peach-colored? Isn''t this the same energy from inside the Qiankun Cauldron?


    It was as if a blessing had dawned on him, and Zhong Shan suddenly visualized a giant snake within the peach-colored energy. The giant snake slowly expelled the peach-colored energy from its body, and then its entire form radiated golden light. Instantly, the heavens filled with auspicious signs, endless rays of light, and celestial creatures danced in the sky.


    Had it attained sainthood?


    The snake''s nature was inherently sensual, and by expelling this nature, the giant snake achieved sainthood. A giant snake? A saint? Nuwa?


    The peach-colored energy was the expelled sensual nature of Nuwa? In an instant, Zhong Shan understood. Only the expelled sensual nature of a saint could be more domineering than the Red Luan Mist. The Red Luan Mist had nowpletely evolved into this peach-colored energy. It was a brand new Red Luan Mist!


    Zhong Shan''s consciousness became clearer, and he also felt his physical condition. His injuries seemed to bepletely healed, and his cultivation had broken through the bottleneck, reaching the Great Immortal realm!


    Great Immortal, Second Heaven!


    Even his Demonic Body Tempering technique had mysteriously advanced two levels, reaching the ninth level!


    Slowly opening his eyes, Zhong Shan found himself lying in the giant cauldron, surrounded by arge amount of peach-colored energy.


    Zhong Shan was suddenly shocked��he had broken through? How had he broken through? Suddenly, the hazy memories from his unconscious state rushed back into his mind.


    With a bitter smile, Zhong Shan looked up, unsure how to describe his current feelings.


    Meanwhile, outside the Qiankun Cauldron, two stunning women stood��Saint King Taichu and Princess Nine-Tails. Their hair was damp with sweat, and they wore the same expression, biting their lips, their brows furrowed, and their chests heaving as they stared at the Qiankun Cauldron. Their expressions were indescribable, but regardless of what they felt, the expressions on their faces carried an inherent touch of allure typical of the fox n.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/Jw-q2euGywY

 Chapter 944: The Arrival of Luo Xingchen

    <h4>Chapter 944: The Arrival of Luo Xingchen</h4>


    "Are you also here for the Qiankun Cauldron?" Zhong Shan asked Ancestor Xue Mei.


    At the mention of the Qiankun Cauldron, the previously morous disciples of Ancestor Xue Mei fell silent, all eyes fixated on Zhong Shan. Their gazes were filled with longing, highlighting the cauldron''s allure.


    Shaking his head, Ancestor Xue Mei replied calmly, "I don''t need the Qiankun Cauldron."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan expressed his doubt.


    "I just need you to leave Nuwa''s realm immediately," Ancestor Xue Mei said inly.


    "Leave Nuwa''s realm? Why?" Zhong Shan was puzzled.


    "Because your presence will affect my ns," Ancestor Xue Mei said frankly.


    "I will affect you? Ha, what makes you so sure I will impact your ns?"


    "My calctions are never wrong. In this Nuwa realm conflict, you have be a pivotal figure. You will disrupt my strategies! Leave now, and I will pretend nothing happened," Ancestor Xue Mei stated.


    Zhong Shan''s expression shifted. Was he really the key? Was Ancestor Xue Mei trying to deceive him, or was there some truth to his words?


    "What if I don''t leave?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "I know you have reached the Great Immortal realm and have faced Ancestral Immortal Burning Lamp before. But Burning Lamp was the weakest among Ancestral Immortals, and even he was difficult for you to handle. If I, an experienced Ancestral Immortal, were to act, what are your chances of survival?" Ancestor Xue Mei threatened.


    Zhong Shan looked seriously at Ancestor Xue Mei. It was true; he was no match for an Ancestral Immortal, even if it was the weakest one like Burning Lamp. Against Ancestor Xue Mei, his chances were even slimmer.


    "Then why don''t you just take action?"


    Suddenly, a female voice came from the distance.


    The disciples of Ancestor Xue Mei frowned and looked towards the source of the voice. Ancestor Xue Mei, however, was not surprised and turned his head, "Serpent Empress Sect Leader, if you''re here,e out!"


    "Whoosh!" A woman in a hemp robe appeared in the valley.


    It was the Serpent Empress Sect Leader, Magu!


    "Greetings, Serpent Empress Sect Leader," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Regardless of her motives, Zhong Shan was sure that Magu and Ancestor Xue Mei were not on the same side. The enemy of his enemy could very well be his ally.


    "Sage King Zhong, has the Qiankun Cauldron been refined and returned to its origin?" Magu asked Zhong Shan.


    Surprised by her knowledge, Zhong Shan nodded, "Yes."


    "Did you assist in its refinement?" Magu seemed well-versed in the Qiankun Cauldron.


    "Uh, I guess you could say that," Zhong Shan replied with a peculiar expression.


    "Good," Magu nodded, her voice carrying a hint of satisfaction.


    Turning to Ancestor Xue Mei, Magu said, "Ancestor Xue Mei, bullying the weak is not your style."


    "There are some things I must do," Ancestor Xue Mei shook his head.


    "Then why don''t you take action yourself?"


    "The Demon Summoning Banner is extraordinary. It has changed hands many times, and Zhong Shan is one of the crucial links. Therefore, Zhong Shan must leave," Ancestor Xue Mei exined.


    "If you act against Zhong Shan now, under the will of heaven, you will never obtain the Demon Summoning Banner. Am I right?" Magu asked calmly.


    "You understand the art of fate maniption?" Ancestor Xue Mei asked with slight surprise.


    "Fate maniption? There are many fate maniptors in Nuwa''s realm, but none havee for Zhong Shan. Only you, an outcast of the heavenly way, are so desperate!" Magu''s tone turned sharp.


    Outcast of the heavenly way? Ancestor Xue Mei''s pupils constricted. He looked coldly at Magu.


    "Are you trying to stop me?" Ancestor Xue Mei asked coldly.


    "I''m not stopping you. I just want to see how you n to force Zhong Shan out of Nuwa''s realm without taking action yourself!" Magu replied calmly.


    Zhong Shan listened, not fully understanding the concept of fate maniption, but he gleaned something important from their exchange: Ancestor Xue Mei couldn''t directly attack him.


    This realization settled Zhong Shan''s nerves.


    "I may not be able to take action, but I have my disciples!" Ancestor Xue Mei suddenly smiled.


    "Master, I am willing to serve you!"


    "Master, let me fight!"


    ... Ancestor Xue Mei''s disciples eagerly volunteered, each one ready to kill Zhong Shan.


    "Serpent Empress Sect Leader, are you nning to stop me?" Ancestor Xue Mei asked.


    Looking at Ancestor Xue Mei, Magu shook her head, "I said I wouldn''t stop you. I''m just here to observe your disciples in action."


    At that moment, on a distant mountaintop...


    "Senior Brother, look, that''s Zhong Shan! He has the Qiankun Cauldron. We should..."


    "Stop!"


    "Senior Brother? If we don''t go now, those people in front of Zhong Shan will get there first!"


    "Do you see who they are?"


    "What? Ancestor Xue Mei? Serpent Empress Sect Leader?"


    "Send a signal to inform our uncle!"


    "Yes!"


    A signal beam shot into the sky. Though their uncle had not yet arrived, the signal attracted arge number of strong cultivators.


    In the valley below...


    Ancestor Xue Mei looked at Zhong Shan, "It''s not that I didn''t give you a chance. I will send only two of my disciples. If you can defeat them, I will leave immediately."


    Zhong Shan looked at Ancestor Xue Mei and suddenly smiled. Was he being given a choice?


    Since it wasn''t Ancestor Xue Mei himself taking action, Zhong Shan saw no reason to be afraid.


    "Then let the Serpent Empress Sect Leader be a witness!" Zhong Shan said, looking at Magu.


    "As you wish," Magu nodded.


    "Please," Zhong Shan gestured to Ancestor Xue Mei.


    "Mei Xin, you go first!" Ancestor Xue Mei said calmly.


    "Yes, Master!" An extremely pale-faced man responded excitedly.


    The conversation quickly spread among the gathered strong cultivators, who began to understand what was happening.


    "Mei Xin? Ancestor Xue Mei''s top disciple, known for his unparalleled swordsmanship, a peerless expert."


    "Zhong Shan versus Mei Xin? Can Zhong Shan match Mei Xin?"


    "Hard to say, with Ancestor Xue Mei backing him up, it''s unpredictable."


    ... As people discussed, the information about the Qiankun Cauldron had already spread. The first arrivals had told everyone that the cauldron had been refined and apparently was no longer with Zhong Shan.


    This news disappointed many, but since it was confirmed by the Serpent Empress Sect Leader, they had no reason to doubt it. They were now intensely curious about Zhong Shan. Would the Demon Summoning Banner also be linked to him?


    "Zhong Shan, please!" Mei Xin immediately addressed Zhong Shan.


    Looking at Mei Xin, Zhong Shan showed a faint hint of disdain, "You? You''re not even worthy of my attention!"


    Wow!


    The crowd erupted in astonishment. Was Zhong Shan''s arrogance justified? Mei Xin was an Ancient Immortal, yet Zhong Shan imed he wasn''t worthy of his attention?


    "You!" Mei Xin was furious.


    "Zhong Shan?" Ancestor Xue Mei showed a hint of displeasure.


    Having just agreed to a duel, now Zhong Shan was backing out?


    "Sage King Zhong?" Magu, the witness, also looked somewhat disappointed.


    Zhong Shan didn''t respond but instead walked slowly towards a nearby pce, opening its doors.


    Boom!


    The doors of the pce shut with a thunderous sound.


    "Uh?"


    Zhong Shan''s sudden action left everyone bewildered. What was he doing? Mei Xin''s face grew dark.


    Boom!


    The doors opened again. Zhong Shan stepped out of the pce, and to everyone''s surprise, another figure in a blue robe followed him.


    Who is he?


    Everyone quickly searched their memories, but no one could ce this blue-robed man with a sapphire-like crystal on his forehead.


    All eyes were on this new figure who followed Zhong Shan like a subordinate.


    Ancestor Xue Mei squinted at the blue-robed man, unable to discern his cultivation level. Ancient Immortal? What was his rtionship with Zhong Shan?


    Returning to his original spot, Zhong Shan spoke again, "Luo Xingchen!"


    "Your subject is here!" Luo Xingchen responded immediately.


    Your subject? Zhong Shan''s subordinate? How could Zhong Shan have a subordinate at the Ancient Immortal level? Ancestor Xue Mei frowned.


    "This is Mei Xin. Defeat him in my stead!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    "Defeat him. Life or death, it does not matter!" Zhong Shanmanded again.


    "I obey!"


    Luo Xingchen''s response left the surrounding experts stunned. Who was this person? Defeat Mei Xin? An Ancient Immortal was not so easily defeated. Life or death?


    Mei Xin''s face showed disdain. Zhong Shan was in the Great Immortal realm. How strong could his subordinate be? At most, another Great Immortal. While Zhong Shan''s strength was indeed formidable, facing his subordinate should be less daunting. Was this a joke?


    "Begin, and be careful!" Ancestor Xue Mei reminded.


    "Master, rest assured. I will uphold your honor and defeat this person!" Mei Xin dered solemnly.


    With a flicker, Mei Xin flew to the peak of a distant mountain.


    "Go!" Zhong Shan said, waving his sleeve.


    "Yes!"


    Luo Xingchen leaped to the peak of another distant mountain.


    The two peaks were far apart, with Mei Xin and Luo Xingchen staring at each other from a distance.


    The surrounding experts moved away to watch this ''foregone conclusion'' of a battle.


    How could Zhong Shan''s subordinate be a match for the Ancient Immortal Mei Xin? If Luo Xingchen was truly powerful, he would be well-known. This was a foolhardy endeavor.


    Mei Xin looked at Luo Xingchen with disdain. He waved his hand, and a snow-white longsword appeared. The moment the sword was drawn, a vast amount of sword energy filled the air, forming an enormous sword formation around Mei Xin, grand and imposing.


    One sword drew the awe of the world! The overwhelming sword energy shot in all directions.


    Numerous experts quickly retreated.


    "What a powerful Mei Xin!"


    "What an impressive sword energy!"


    "Mei Xin is establishing his dominance. He doesn''t need such power against Luo Xingchen. He wants to end it with one strike!"


    The onlookers were filled with amazement. Was this the power of an Ancient Immortal? Luo Xingchen was doomed.


    On the distant peak, Luo Xingchen showed no fear. He drew a blue longbow from his side.


    "What is this? His weapon is a bow?"


    "Who uses a bow? A bow is practically useless. It can only shoot one arrow, while Mei Xin''s sword energy is endless. Is he out of his mind?"


    "A bow? Is he here to make usugh?"


    The spectators sneered. Bows were seldom used because many considered them the least effective weapons.


    But was Luo Xingchen''s bow really a joke? The weapon of the once greatest expert in the Reincarnation Territory was noughing matter.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/Jw-q2euGywY

 Chapter 945: One Arrow

    <h4>Chapter 945: One Arrow</h4>


    At Mei Xin''s location, countless sword energies danced in the sky, creating an aura of unparalleled dominance that spread in all directions. The terrifying shadows of sword energy filled the area.


    This was a disy of overwhelming power. Even the longswords of some nearby sword cultivators began to tremble.


    The endless sword energies slowly formed a powerful sword formation, locking onto Luo Xingchen in the distance. Those nearby suddenly felt as if the sky was falling.


    Such was the might of Mei Xin!


    On the other mountain peak, however, there was no disy of such force. Luo Xingchen, d in a blue robe that fluttered in the wind, held a blue longbow, with a golden arrow nocked on the string. The bow was drawn to a full moon shape, seemingly full of power, but without any apparent aura. It looked as if an ordinary person was drawing the bow.


    Without much of an aura, people looked at Luo Xingchen with disdain. Only Ancestor Xue Mei in the valley below showed a trace of concern. This wasn''t because Luo Xingchen had no aura, but because he had concentrated all his aura into a single point, focused on the arrow.


    Luo Xingchen was the true master.


    Noticing something amiss, Ancestor Xue Mei didn''t issue a warning but watched intently.


    In the distance, Mei Xin kept his eyes on Luo Xingchen. Seeing Luo Xingchen draw his bow, he felt an urge tough. A bow? This arrow, which seemed powerless, dared to point at him?


    In Mei Xin''s eyes, even if Luo Xingchen shot the arrow, he had a hundred ways to block it.


    "Hmph, perish with the mountain beneath your feet!" Mei Xin snorted coldly.


    With a wave of his sword, the sky was filled with sword energy converging into a torrent, rushing towards Luo Xingchen with the force of a copsing heavenly river. It was overwhelmingly powerful, unstoppable. A gigantic torrent of sword energy, ten thousand feet long, who could withstand it?


    "Luo Xingchen is doomed!"


    "With such a powerful sword attack locking down the area, Luo Xingchen has nowhere to escape!"


    "What a pity, this is the first time I''ve seen an archer cultivator, and now he''s doomed!"


    ... The surrounding spectators expressed their pity, but more so their excitement at witnessing the might of Ancient Immortal Mei Xin''s powerful sword attack.


    In the distance, facing the overwhelming sword attack, Luo Xingchen''s expression shifted slightly. Suddenly, a sh of brilliance appeared in his eyes, and he released the golden arrow.


    "Shooting an arrow now? What''s the point?"


    "Knowing you''re going to die, you naturally put up a struggle!"


    "That arrow probably can''t even prate the sword attack. Shooting an arrow? What a joke!"


    "Yeah, it''s a joke... uh?"


    ... The voices mocking Luo Xingchen abruptly stopped, and everyone stared in shock. This?


    "Senior Brother!" Ancestor Xue Mei''s disciples shouted.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    The terrifying sword attack, the ten-thousand-foot-long torrent of sword energy, suddenly exploded and dissipated, turning into countless fragments of sword energy that scattered in all directions but dissipated before hitting the ground.


    It was too fast. The reversal of the situation happened so quickly that many didn''t even react, staring in stunned silence.


    "This shouldn''t be happening!"


    "Something''s wrong! This can''t be right!"


    "It''s impossible!"


    The surrounding spectators couldn''tprehend what had just urred as they watched the two peaks.


    Luo Xingchen slowly put away his longbow.


    On the face of Ancient Immortal Mei Xin, at his brow, a golden arrow had pierced through his head. Mei Xin''s hand was still in the motion of swinging his sword, his eyes wide open in disbelief. Even in death, he couldn''tprehend how he, a dignified Ancient Immortal, could be killed by a single golden arrow.


    The golden arrow hade too mysteriously.


    After shooting the arrow, Luo Xingchen flew to Zhong Shan''s side.


    "Sage King, I have not failed you!" Luo Xingchen reported.


    From afar, the spectators were still in shock. Luo Xingchen had already returned to Zhong Shan''s side.


    A kill in seconds! It was absolute and too quick. No one believed it was luck. That arrow, no matter who tried, would not have been able to pierce through Ancient Immortal Mei Xin. But Luo Xingchen had done it.


    Who exactly was he?


    Mei Xin''s junior brothers quickly rushed to the mountain peak, holding Mei Xin''s body.


    "Senior Brother?" They eximed in horror.


    "Hurry, bring him to Master!" One disciple shouted.


    A group of them quickly brought Mei Xin''s body to Ancestor Xue Mei.


    "Master, please save Senior Brother!" One disciple pleaded.


    Ancestor Xue Mei looked at Mei Xin and took the golden arrow from his forehead. The arrow had turned into an ordinary long arrow, revealing no secrets.


    "Master, can you save Senior Brother?" Another disciple asked anxiously.


    Ancestor Xue Mei looked at Mei Xin and shook his head, "I once told him he would die from a ''brow disaster,'' so I named him ''Mei Xin'' to remind him. Unfortunately..."


    Ancestor Xue Mei''s words indicated there was no hope.


    Simultaneously, all the disciples were shocked. Mei Xin, brow disaster? He indeed died from a brow disaster? Master was too prophetic. The disciples quickly reviewed their own names to see what disasters they might face.


    The disciples of Ancestor Xue Mei red at Zhong Shan with hatred. This was the second senior brother to die.


    "Master, allow me to avenge our two junior brothers!" A very robust disciple said.


    "Third Senior Brother!" Everyone looked at this robust man.


    "The opponent is not an easy one. Are you willing?" Ancestor Xue Mei asked with a frown.


    This time, Ancestor Xue Mei seemed to take it very seriously, valuing this third disciple highly.


    "I swear to avenge our two junior brothers!" The third senior brother vowed.


    Ancestor Xue Mei nodded. With a wave of his sleeve, a huge figure suddenly appeared in front of everyone.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    A hundred-zhang tall fierce beast, a Reverse Flow Beast.


    "Another one?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    The moment the Reverse Flow Beast appeared, it seemed to know Zhong Shan had killed another of its kind, and its single eye red at Zhong Shan with hatred.


    "This is a Reverse Flow Beast. You will ride it into battle!" Ancestor Xue Mei said seriously.


    "Yes!" The third senior brother responded immediately.


    "Luo Xingchen, go!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!" Luo Xingchen replied instantly.


    The two flew to two distant mountain peaks, the Reverse Flow Beast naturally following the third senior brother.


    Zhong Shan and the others also flew into the sky, eachnding on a mountain peak, watching the battle.


    Luo Xingchen versus the Reverse Flow Beast and the third senior brother?


    This time, Luo Xingchen did not take out his longbow. He had seen this kind of Reverse Flow Beast before and knew that its abilities were somewhat simr to his own. With the Reverse Flow Beast by the third senior brother''s side, an arrow shot at him might very well be reversed back!


    As the powerful experts around them finally processed what had happened, they began to look at Luo Xingchen with a new light in their eyes. A bow and arrow? How could it be so formidable?


    At the same time, there was anticipation for the second match. However, seeing the third senior brother and the Reverse Flow Beast together, many voiced their displeasure.


    "They said only two disciples, but now they can''t win and are bringing in the Reverse Flow Beast too!"


    "This is shameless!"


    "Yeah, this is disgusting! If the Reverse Flow Beast can participate, then shouldn''t Zhong Shan''s Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail be allowed to join too? Let''s see who''s stronger!"


    ... Numerousints arose, making the third senior brother''s face flush with embarrassment. But he didn''t back down because he knew just how strong Luo Xingchen was. His junior brother Mei Xin had been instantly killed.


    He had to be cautious!


    "Go!" the third senior brother shouted, charging at Luo Xingchen.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    With a thunderous sound, the third senior brother''s palm struck against Luo Xingchen''s palm at high speed. Normally, there would have been some initial probing, but this direct sh of palms was rare.


    The collision of their palms produced a deafening sound, and the Reverse Flow Beast suddenly appeared close to Luo Xingchen, its eye shing green, reversing the flow of energy towards Luo Xingchen!


    A cold smile crossed Luo Xingchen''s face. With his divine ability, he eerily reflected the Reverse Flow Beast''s green light, bouncing it back in all directions.


    Some of the energy returned to the Reverse Flow Beast, but most of it was redirected onto the third senior brother.


    The third senior brother''s face changed drastically. In one strike, he realized that although his cultivation might have been higher than Luo Xingchen''s, the reflected green light was rapidly weakening him.


    Ancient Immortal Sixth Level! Ancient Immortal Fifth Level! Ancient Immortal Fourth Level!


    "Stop the reversal!" the third senior brother shouted.


    The Reverse Flow Beast, realizing something was wrong, immediately stopped the green light. At this point, the third senior brother''s cultivation seemed to be on par with Luo Xingchen''s.


    "The Reverse Flow Beast''s green light was reflected? How is that possible?"


    "That kind of light is unstoppable!"


    "Luo Xingchen? What kind of power does he have? It''s incredible!"


    ... People were filled with astonishment but couldn''tprehend what had just happened.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    A fierce battle ensued, with dazzling lights filling the sky. Sand and stones flew everywhere as the two Ancient Immortals fought, showcasing the true nature of a battle between such powerful beings.


    Although the radiant disy made it hard to see the details of the fight, it was much more engaging than the previous instant kill.


    People marveled at Luo Xingchen''s strength.


    While admiring Luo Xingchen''s power, many couldn''t help but nce at Zhong Shan, who stood proudly on a mountaintop watching the battle.


    If Luo Xingchen could be subdued by him, just how strong was Zhong Shan? Heavenly Immortal? Great Immortal? Ridiculous!


    Ancestor Xue Mei frowned, staring intently at the battlefield. He observed closely.


    At the center of the dazzling energy, Luo Xingchen was forcefully contending with the third senior brother. Although the Reverse Flow Beast possessed powerful abilities, its individual strength was not particrly high. After trying to join the fray for a while without sess, it became restless.


    The Reverse Flow Beast turned its gaze towards Zhong Shan, filled with hatred.


    "Grrr!" The Reverse Flow Beast growled hatefully.


    Suddenly, it made a decision, darting out of the massive battlefield and charging straight at Zhong Shan.


    It was too fast. Despite the distance, for such a powerful beast, it was nothing. In the blink of an eye, it was in front of Zhong Shan.


    Seeing the Reverse Flow Beast charging at him, Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold. "Foolish creature!"


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/Jw-q2euGywY

 Chapter 946: Three Paths to the Yellow Springs

    <h4>Chapter 946: Three Paths to the Yellow Springs</h4>


    The massive Reverse Flow Beast broke the rules and charged straight at Zhong Shan from the center of the battlefield.


    Almost all the spectators'' eyes twitched as they watched the Reverse Flow Beast. Luo Xingchen could withstand the green light, but what about Zhong Shan? Could the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail stand against the Reverse Flow Beast?


    The disciples of Ancestor Xue Mei stared at Zhong Shan. They had always been curious about how thest Reverse Flow Beast was defeated. Aside from the mysterious Luo Xingchen, who could withstand the beast''s divine abilities?


    The Reverse Flow Beast moved too fast. In the blink of an eye, it was in front of Zhong Shan, its single eye glowing green with intense hatred, ready to make Zhong Shan pay.


    "Foolish creature!" Zhong Shan''s eyes turned cold.


    As everyone held their breath, the Reverse Flow Beast''s green light was about to be unleashed.


    "sh!"


    A sh of light appeared in front of Zhong Shan. Out of nowhere, a massive creature with multiplerge tails, the hundred-zhang-long Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, suddenly appeared.


    It happened so quickly that no one could see how the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail arrived. It seemed to materialize out of thin air.


    The Reverse Flow Beast had appeared out of nowhere because it had been hidden in Ancestor Xue Mei''s "world," a space only an Ancestral Immortal could possess. But Zhong Shan? He couldn''t possibly be an Ancestral Immortal, so how did the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail appear?


    Curiosity about the appearance of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail was overshadowed by the focus on its tails.


    One ck, one red! The ck tail pierced through the Reverse Flow Beast''s eye and out the back of its head, while the red tail, with a bloody aura, pierced through the beast''s throat.


    "Stop������������������������������������������������!"


    Several disciples of Ancestor Xue Mei shouted in rm.


    But it was toote!


    Zhong Shan had murderous intent, and no one could escape. With a swing of the ughtering Immortal Sword and the Absolute Immortal Sword, the Reverse Flow Beast was torn in half. It was too quick, too bloody.


    The Reverse Flow Beast was split in two, blood spraying everywhere. It was a terrifying, deadly strike.


    The Reverse Flow Beast? Just like that, it was finished?


    A terrifying Zhong Shan, a terrifying divine beast of the Great Immortal Holy Court. How did the Great Immortal Holy Court have such a formidable divine beast?


    People held their breath, watching the ferocity of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, not daring to breathe loudly.


    "Impossible, I shattered the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. How could it be restored? It''s impossible!" a voice suddenly eximed from a distant valley.


    Who had imed to have shattered the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail? What arrogance. All eyes turned towards the voice.


    It was Burning Lamp, the ancient Buddha.


    Zhong Shan looked over in surprise. Burning Lamp stared at the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail in disbelief. He knew the power of the blow he had dealt, and it should have been beyond saving, unless aided by a sage. But Zhong Shan had no connection to any sage, so how had the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail been restored?


    Burning Lamp couldn''tprehend it. He looked at Zhong Shan with a mixture of fear and confusion.


    Now an ancient Buddha and at the peak of his realm, Burning Lamp shouldn''t have feared Zhong Shan. But the psychological shadow Zhong Shan had cast over him two months ago still lingered.


    Misfortune had gued him. He had fallen from the Ancestral Immortal realm back to the Ancient Immortal realm. And it hadn''t stopped there. For the past two months, he had repeatedly encountered old enemies. During the first two months in Nuwa''s realm, he hadn''t seen a familiar face. Now, every few days, he ran into an enemy, confirming the terrifying misfortune surrounding him.


    Today was no exception. After Burning Lamp''s exmation, three figures suddenly jumped out from the crowd.


    Another group of enemies?


    Burning Lamp disyed a look of bitterness, not daring to linger. His figure flickered as he shot off into the distance, with the three enemies in hot pursuit.


    "When will these days of torment end?" Burning Lamp''s face was filled with bitterness as he fled.


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail instantly killed the Reverse Flow Beast!


    Watching the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail shrink to the size of a palm and settle on Zhong Shan''s shoulder, chirping incessantly, many spectators'' eyes turned red with envy.


    "How is Zhong Shan so lucky? To find such a divine beast!"


    "So adorable! Husband, I want one too! Can you find one for me?"


    "Instantly killing the Reverse Flow Beast, isn''t the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail at the Ancient Immortal level?"


    "Even if Zhong Shan is weak, he now has two Ancient Immortal-level protectors. Truly maddening!"


    ... Voices of envy and jealousy rose from the crowd, all centered on Zhong Shan, the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, and Luo Xingchen!


    Ancestor Xue Mei paid little attention to the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail. Even after witnessing the Reverse Flow Beast being instantly killed, he merely furrowed his brows.


    His focus was on his third disciple.


    Something was off. Why was Luo Xingchen''s speed so strange? Sometimes he moved so quickly that even Ancestor Xue Mei almost couldn''t catch him.


    Who was Luo Xingchen, and why had no one heard of him before?


    Ancestor Xue Mei extended his hand and began to calcte.


    However, as soon as he started, his fingers were repelled.


    "Like Zhong Shan, he also has a technique that disrupts fate?" Ancestor Xue Mei''s brows knitted in concern.


    Fate, for the key ministers of the Great Immortal, was something Zhong Shan never hesitated to bestow. He generously rewarded everyone because he knew that the most precious asset of the Great Immortal was not its territory or overall strength but the talented individuals it had gathered.


    Talent was the foundation of the Great Immortal!


    Luo Xingchen seemed to sense someone trying to calcte his fate. His eyes turned cold, and heunched a fierce palm strike at the third senior brother.


    It was too fast. Under his time maniption ability, the third senior brother couldn''t defend himself. Before he could use his stronger moves, Luo Xingchen''s palm had already pierced through his chest.


    "Bastard������������������������������������������������!"


    For the first time, Ancestor Xue Mei showed anger. His figure flickered as he tried to save his disciple.


    "Whoosh!"


    In mid-air, Ancestor Xue Mei''s figure reappeared, but he was blocked.


    In front of Ancestor Xue Mei was a thousand-zhang-long giant green snake, flicking its tongue with a cold re. Standing on the snake''s head was Magu.


    "Ancestor Xue Mei, please restrain yourself!" Magu said sternly.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    With a loud explosion in the sky, the third senior brother was blown apart by Luo Xingchen.


    Defeated! Again!


    Ancestor Xue Mei showed a trace of anger, his eyes flickering continuously. Meanwhile, Luo Xingchen, surprised by the appearance of the giant snake, flickered andnded in front of Zhong Shan.


    After paying a respectful salute to Zhong Shan, Luo Xingchen stood behind him.


    Ancestor Xue Mei took a deep breath, calming the fire within him. He nced at Magu.


    "The old man lost his temper. Thank you, Serpent Empress Sect Leader!" Ancestor Xue Mei nodded.


    Nearly everyone turned to look at Ancestor Xue Mei, confused by his actions.


    "I promised to be a witness earlier, and I must fulfill my duty!" Magu nodded.


    "Nuwa''s essence blood? This giant serpent is a clone created from Nuwa''s essence blood?" Ancestor Xue Mei remarked as he looked at the serpent beneath Magu.


    "Good insight!" Magu responded calmly.


    After giving Magu a deep look, Ancestor Xue Mei nodded.


    "Let''s go!" Ancestor Xue Mei called to his disciples, and in a sh, they all turned into shadows and disappeared from sight.


    Throughout, they didn''t spare Zhong Shan another nce.


    Standing atop the mountain peak, Zhong Shan watched the direction in which Ancestor Xue Mei had left, pondering deeply. Everything seemed unusual, and the matter of the Summoning Banner was equally strange. What secrets did it hold?


    However, Zhong Shan quickly shifted his focus back to Magu.


    "Thank you, Serpent Empress Sect Leader!" Zhong Shan said sincerely.


    Zhong Shan knew he owed a great favor to Magu this time. Without her intervention, he wouldn''t have known how to handle Ancestor Xue Mei''s pressure.


    Ancestral Immortal? Zhong Shan was still far from being able to contend with an Ancestral Immortal! The power of mobilizing the Dao of Heaven was evident from what he had seen with Burning Lamp two months ago. Even if Ancestor Xue Mei didn''t act, his disciples attacking en masse would have been too much for Zhong Shan to handle.


    And since Magu had no previous dealings with him, her help was puzzling. Why did she help him?


    The serpent beneath Magu flickered and transformed back into a totem on her garment.


    Flying over to Zhong Shan, Magu said, "In the near future, I will have a favor to ask of you."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan nodded, finding this more reasonable.


    "What is it?"


    "It''s not a big deal. You''ll definitely be able to manage it!" Magu assured.


    "Alright, as long as it doesn''t go against my principles, I''ll do my best!" Zhong Shan agreed.


    Magu nodded, then disappeared from sight.


    "Let''s go too!" Zhong Shan said.


    "Yes!"


    With that, the two of them shot off in a direction, disappearing in an instant.


    Before long, Zhong Shan and Luo Xingchen arrived at a new valley.


    "Sage King, is this the living world? Can we traverse between the yin and yang realms without the Yellow Springs Road?" Luo Xingchen asked, his eyes filled with curiosity.


    "Yellow Springs Road? How many Yellow Springs Roads are there in theherworld?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Only three, not counting the small worlds! In the grand world, there are only three Yellow Springs Roads. However, none are as miraculous as what the Sage King has, allowing free traversal. Only Sages can do that!" Luo Xingchen replied.


    "Sages can traverse the two realms at will?" Zhong Shan questioned.


    "Yes, Sages can. But for some reason, they avoid doing so, as if there''s some taboo." Luo Xingchen exined.


    "I see." Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Sage King, where are we? What should I do?" Luo Xingchen asked with curiosity.


    "This is the living world, Nuwa''s realm..." Zhong Shan exined the situation in Nuwa''s realm to Luo Xingchen.


    Luo Xingchen nodded solemnly. Zhong Shan''s descriptions of the Ancestral Immortals left a shadow of concern but also a hint of excitement in Luo Xingchen''s heart.


    "To find the Summoning Banner without any leads, we might as well wait and watch. I''ll stay here during this period, and you go out daily to gather information and report back to me!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, Your Majesty!" Luo Xingchen responded immediately.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/Jw-q2euGywY

 Chapter 947: Ying and Zhuangzi

    <h4>Chapter 947: Ying and Zhuangzi</h4>


    In the underworld, Changjing!


    In front of the Immortal Pce, Zhong Shan examined a blueprintid out before him. The blueprint depicted a giant banner with thirteen colors.


    "Sage King, we can confirm that this is the appearance of the Summoning Banner," Yi Yan reported respectfully.


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The Summoning Banner, once Nuwa''s treasure, had been seen by many, even though none had ever possessed it. It was simr to the Four Swords of Immortal Execution, which had numerous imitations across the world.


    "Nangong Sheng, y Bodhisattva!" Zhong Shan called out.


    "Your subjects are here!" they responded promptly.


    "Using this blueprint, create imitations of the Summoning Banner. Don''t worry about functionality, just focus on appearance and grandeur. Make them look as real as possible, and set up mysterious formations on them to prevent anyone from probing them," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Understood!" they responded immediately.


    Creating forgeries? It was just deception!


    "Make as many as you can, the more, the better. Once you''ve made a prototype, you can mobilize the craftsmen of the Ministry of Works to mass-produce the Summoning Banners!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!"


    While everyone in the living world was searching for the Summoning Banner, Zhong Shan had already begun producing imitations. If those searching in the living world knew, they would surely be speechless.


    Zhong Shan had to resort to this deception due to circumstances beyond his control. Ancestor Xue Mei had already mentioned that the Summoning Banner would pass through several hands, and Zhong Shan was one of them. Given his current strength, he couldn''t protect it. So, he decided to add more chaos to the already turbulent situation.


    While forgeries were being made in the underworld, Zhong Shan waited patiently in the living world. Finally, three monthster...


    Zhong Shan flew in a certain direction with Luo Xingchen.


    "Sage King, arge number of demons have sensed the Summoning Banner in the north. Shouldn''t we hurry?" Luo Xingchen asked in confusion.


    "Hurry? There''s no use in rushing. The north is likely a battlefield right now. Don''t worry, the Summoning Banner won''t escape. With so many experts watching, who would let it slip away?" Zhong Shan replied calmly.


    "Understood!"


    "Any recent news?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "The Ancient Buddha Burning Lamp has been pursued daily. Half a month ago, severely injured, he and three of his enemies fled from Nuwa''s realm," Luo Xingchen reported.


    "Burning Lamp is gone? That''s good. Any news about Sima Yuan and the Purple Heaven Sect Leader?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "After the Ru-Dragon Encircling Formation was broken, Sima Yuan was heavily injured by dozens of Ancient Immortals and left Nuwa''s realm with a shattered body. The Purple Heaven Sect Leader has had no news. He might have left as well," Luo Xingchen exined.


    "I see."


    The two flew north at a steady pace. Two dayster, they arrived at a scene of carnage.


    Corpses were strewn everywhere. The temptation of a Sage''s treasure was indeed earth-shattering. In the distance, arge number of experts had gathered. Some hovered in the sky, while others stood on mountain peaks, all staring at the center.


    In the center, there was arge mountain. Though not the tallest, it emitted a dazzling light. Golden rays burst forth, blinding to the eye, like a radiant sun.


    From the source of the golden light, waves of spatial ripples, no, spatial waves, spread out in all directions. Everything in the path of these waves was reduced to dust. Only the absolute top experts could remain near the center.


    These top experts wanted to charge in, but none could break through, as the internal battle was too fierce.


    The surrounding powerful individuals could only stay on the periphery.


    There were many strong beings present, and Zhong Shan suddenly realized that the top experts who had been waiting outside Nuwa''s realm more than half a year ago had all arrived.


    While there had only been a crowd of Ancient Immortals facing the Qiankun Cauldron, here stood a gathering of Ancestral Immortals.


    To the west were Ancestor Xue Mei and his disciples. To the south, Serpent Empress Sect Leader and the powerful individuals from her domain were present. As for the other experts on the peaks, Zhong Shan didn''t recognize them.


    This was the focal point of Nuwa''s realm. All the powerful individuals who coulde had arrived.


    Because here was the Summoning Banner!


    Zhong Shan and Luo Xingchen found a peak to rest on, watching the center and the surrounding experts from a distance. Unexpectedly, Zhong Shan spotted another familiar face.


    The Purple Heaven Sect Leader! He hadn''t left?


    "Sage King, are those two Ancestral Immortals dueling at the center?" Luo Xingchen asked in astonishment.


    "Yes, go find out who they are," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    Even from a distance, the intense shes within could be felt, shaking the hearts of those present.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    A burst of golden light dazzled everyone, making it hard to see anything within.


    A powerful wave of space, like a tsunami, swept out in all directions.


    The terrifying shockwave blew away clouds over millions of miles in an instant. Some nearby experts were even thrown back tens of thousands of miles by the force.


    Such overwhelming power, the duel of Ancestral Immortals?


    Red Luan mist filled Zhong Shan''s eyes, allowing him to vaguely see a distant ck Dao, standing dominantly, while a golden Dao dimmed and retreated in the sh.


    As the golden light dissipated, people''s vision gradually returned.


    In the void stood two figures.


    One wore a ck dragon robe, a ck jade crown on his head, exuding an aura of dominance in all directions.


    Ying! That was Ying!


    Zhong Shan saw Ying standing in the air, his entire being enveloped in that ck Dao.


    Merging with the Dao, an Ancestral Immortal, Ying!


    Ying stood proudly, gazing at his opponent.


    Opposite him was a man in a golden cassock. The man''s head was adorned with a cluster of small golden beads, forming a small mountain-like shape, glittering brightly.


    Unfortunately, blood was oozing from this man''s temple, trickling down his chin and eventually dripping onto the ground below.


    "The Golden Bead Buddha has been defeated?" The crowd suddenly erupted in exmations.


    The Golden Bead Buddha was evidently the man with the cluster of golden beads on his head, with blood flowing from his temple.


    Even the Golden Bead Buddha was defeated? Who was this man?


    "Amitabha, this humble monk has lost! I shall no longer pursue the Summoning Banner!" The Golden Bead Buddha performed a slight Buddhist salute.


    "Hmm, you are quite formidable," Ying nodded slightly.


    "May I ask who you are?" The Golden Bead Buddha inquired.


    "Great Qin, Ying!" Ying replied solemnly.


    Showing enough respect to such a formidable opponent, Ying revealed his identity.


    "Farewell!" The Golden Bead Buddha nodded.


    Turning, he signaled to a group of monks on a nearby peak. The monks rose into the air and left with the Golden Bead Buddha.


    Ying watched the direction in which the Golden Bead Buddha departed, giving it a slight, disinterested nce.


    Ying surveyed the surroundings, and as his gaze swept over them, many powerful figures inexplicably lowered their heads, as if afraid to meet his eyes directly.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan also noticed the peak beneath Ying''s feet.


    At one corner of the peak stood Bai Qi. Although Bai Qi was strong, he was still an Ancient Immortal. Facing an Ancestral Immortal, he required Ying''s domineering presence to steady the area.


    In another corner of the peak, arge amount of ck mist shrouded the area. Within the ck mist, eerie lights flickered faintly.


    Zhong Shan observed calmly. Just then, Luo Xingchen, who had been away for a short while, returned to Zhong Shan''s side.


    "Sage King, I have found out everything. The Summoning Banner has appeared; it''s within that ck mist. It seems to be Guiguzi, as you mentioned. He appears to be refining the Summoning Banner, but it''s unclear. More and more powerful figures are gathering here. This is the second Ancestral Immortal to challenge Ying, and he has been defeated and driven away!" Luo Xingchen reported solemnly.


    "Defeated two Ancestral Immortals in a row?" Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    After over eighty thousand years, Zhong Shan finally understood how powerful Ying had be. Under the Dream of Heavenly Mechanism, Ying had trained his "General''s Body" while leading his followers across the grand world. In those eighty thousand years, Ying had ascended to the Ancestral Immortal realm and became one of its most formidable figures.


    Ying stood in the air, coldly watching the surroundings. His intimidating aura spread out, having defeated two Ancestral Immortals in session, thus solidifying his status in the world.


    After this battle, Ying''s name would undoubtedly resound throughout the grand world.


    Ying gazed proudly around, exuding an aura of "challenging the world."


    This was the demeanor of a supreme expert!


    "Is there anyone else?" Ying asked calmly.


    His voice was in, but it carried a sense of dominance that seemed to echo across the world. Who dared to challenge?


    A long silence followed. Even the Ancient Immortals hesitated to step forward.


    Such a powerful Ying!


    While everyone was contemting who would step up next, someone finally moved forward.


    Dressed in white, looking like an ordinary man in his sixties or seventies, with ck hair streaked with some white. Long sideburns hung down his cheeks, and a mass of long hair flowed down his back.


    The old man had a kind face, with bright, prating eyes that looked at Ying without the slightest fear, only curiosity.


    "Zhuangzi, that''s Zhuangzi!" someone suddenly eximed in the distance.


    "It''s really Zhuangzi, I''ve heard him preach, it''s definitely him!"


    "Zhuangzi, the one closest to bing a Sage?"


    People were in an uproar, astonished that Ying''s victories had drawn out Zhuangzi.


    Zhuangzi was immensely renowned in the grand world, known to all as one of the foremost Ancestral Immortals.


    "So, that''s Zhuangzi?" Zhong Shan focused intently.


    This was Zhong Shan''s first time seeing Zhuangzi''s true form. Thest time at the Ao Lai Sea, when theypeted for something with spiritual sense, Zhuangzi''s appearance had remained unclear.


    "Who will win this time?"


    "Definitely Zhuangzi, he''s the one closest to bing a Sage!"


    "Not necessarily, I think Ying is stronger!"


    Excited discussions erupted around them. Everyone was eager to see the duel between Ying and Zhuangzi. Even if they couldn''t get the Summoning Banner, witnessing such a world-shaking battle would be worth it.


    "Great Qin, Ying? The General''s Body? It''s been a long time since anyone with the General''s Body has appeared; I almost forgot about it. I am Zhuang Zhou," Zhuangzi said with a gentle smile.


    Zhuangzicked the arrogance typical of most Ancestral Immortals, instead seeming approachable and giving others a feeling of being bathed in a spring breeze. Of course, Ying''s formidable strength undoubtedly yed a significant role in this demeanor.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/Jw-q2euGywY

 Chapter 948: The Mysterious Bai Qi

    <h4>Chapter 948: The Mysterious Bai Qi</h4>


    "Zhuang Zhou? Dance of the Butterfly World!" Ying nodded lightly.


    Ying held immense respect for Zhuangzi. A person closest to a sage would undoubtedly be powerful. Such a person, even in conversation,mands respect; no one would dare speak harshly to him.


    "Could that be Guiguzi?" Zhuangzi nced towards the ck mist area on the peak.


    "Indeed!" Ying responded directly.


    Zhuangzi looked at Guiguzi and finally nodded, "It seems you both are here for that item. Guiguzi, Ying, yourbined presence suggests that you must have it?"


    "Must have it?" Ying revealed a faint, inscrutable smile.


    "Please!" Zhuangzi said solemnly.


    Ying nodded.


    With his left foot stepping back and his body slightly turning, Ying extended his right palm. Zhuangzi''s movements were very slow, but they appeared seamless and natural. Around Zhuangzi, a massive illusory butterfly silhouette manifested.


    Despite theck of any energy leakage, no one dared to underestimate Zhuangzi''s starting stance.


    Eyes widened all around. This was Zhuangzi, the closest to a sage, making a move. How profound must his techniques be?


    No one below the level of Ancient Immortal could understand it. Only those at the level of Ancestral Immortal could perceive its nuances.


    In the distance, Zhong Shan focused his attention, the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture pouring into his eyes as the Heavenly Dao reappeared.


    Ying merged with the Heavenly Dao, a pitch-ck and overwhelmingly domineering Heavenly Dao. It looked dazzling. Zhuangzi, too, merged with the Heavenly Dao, his being a pure white.


    Within the Heavenly Dao, arge amount of ethereal white mist enveloped Zhuangzi, making him appear dreamlike.


    As Zhuangzi''s palm struck out, the white Heavenly Dao seemed to thicken with his attack.


    "What a formidable strike!" Zhong Shan eximed.


    Back in the day, when Burning Lamp utilized the power of the Heavenly Dao, he could only divert a portion of its power under control. In contrast, Zhuangzi seemed to wield the entire Heavenly Dao. The difference was vast.


    "But I can''t discern its power!" Nearby, Luo Xingchen frowned.


    Zhuangzi''s integration with the Heavenly Dao was so perfect that it appeared seamless, with no power leaking out. Thus, anyone below the level of Ancient Immortal could not discern its intricacies. It was incredibly powerful!


    Zhuangzi''s movements were slow, yet Ying recognized Zhuangzi''s strength, clearly stronger than the Golden-Browed Buddha from before. Ying was highly cautious. Slowly, Ying also extended his right palm.


    Maintaining an unwavering imperial stance, Ying''s right palm was shrouded in white mist, within which countless dazzling tiny stars revolved around his hand.


    Tiny stars? Everyone focused intently, and upon closer inspection, they were astounded.


    Stars, they weren''t tiny stars at all, but countless stars. Numerous stars circled Ying''s right palm, as if he held the entire starry sky in his hand.


    Around Zhuangzi, a massive butterfly illusion formed, while around Ying, countless starry illusions suddenly expanded, surrounding him. Ying became the center, with vast starry skies revolving rapidly around him, like a star with numerouss orbiting it.


    Despite theck of a powerful aura, everyone knew Ying''s strength.


    The two extended their right palms towards each other. There was no Void Hand Seal, just palm to palm, closing in on each other.


    "Bang!"


    A light sound was heard, and the colossal butterfly behind Zhuangzi exploded, not disintegrating but transforming into countless tiny butterflies. The tiny butterflies enveloped the surroundings, covering an area of ten thousand miles with an infinite number of butterflies.


    Simultaneously, Ying''s endless starry sky expanded to a radius of ten thousand miles, instantly enveloping countless powerful beings around. They rotated, centering on the two, spinning rapidly, making it seem as if the entire world was turning.


    Amidst the scene, everyone was surrounded by the shadows of butterflies and stars, all revolving madly around the center like a giant millstone.


    There was no visible impact force, which indicated that both Zhuangzi and Ying had reached the pinnacle in mastering the Heavenly Dao, so precise that not a trace of their power leaked out. Yet, despite this, people dared not linger, retreating quickly to exit the range covered by the stars and butterflies.


    "Retreat! Retreat! Retreat!"


    From a distance, Ying''s figure was no longer visible, only the boundless starry sky and the infinite butterflies towering into the heavens.


    "Ancestral Immortal?" A look of shock shed in Luo Xingchen''s eyes.


    The battlefield now held only Ancestral Immortals. Even they were filled with awe and fear at the immense power Ying disyed. Where did this overwhelming strengthe from?


    While everyone''s attention was fixated on Ying and Zhuangzi, a strange change urred.


    At the base of the mountain beneath them, Bai Qi''s eyes shed with an eerie light. A silver gleam shot from his eyes, transforming him into someone entirely different. Coldly, he identified a direction and vanished from his spot in a sh.


    Bai Qi had left?


    The Ancestral Immortals were slightly surprised but didn''t think much of it. Most of them continued to watch Ying and Zhuangzi, though a few kept an eye on the direction Bai Qi had gone.


    Bai Qi flew towards the southwest, exuding a murderous aura, with arge saber gripped in his hand, filled with a violent energy.


    He soon stopped on a mountain peak, a ce that was remote yet closely watched by many.


    At the location of the Snow Plum Patriarch.


    "Master, is that Bai Qi? Why has he approached Zhong Shan?"


    "Is he nning to fight Zhong Shan? Was this Ying''smand?"


    "Has Bai Qi gone mad? Why isn''t he protecting Guiguzi and instead running off here?"


    Zhong Shan, though in a concealed position, was under the observation of many. Bai Qi had nownded not far from Zhong Shan, radiating killing intent as if he was about to cut Zhong Shan down. The suddenness of it caused Zhong Shan to furrow his brow slightly.


    What madness had seized Bai Qi?


    In the distance, the Snow Plum Patriarch calcted with his fingers, a look of confusion shing in his eyes.


    "Could it be? The Demon-Summoning Banner is supposed to pass through Zhong Shan''s hands. Is Ying deliberately having Bai Qi kill Zhong Shan to ensure the banner doesn''t reach him and instead ends up with Ying? Is this Ying''s n?" The Snow Plum Patriarch raised his brow.


    "Patriarch?" a disciple called out.


    "You three, go, stop that man, and protect Zhong Shan!" the Snow Plum Patriarch suddenlymanded.


    "Uh, yes!" Though confused, the three disciples promptly obeyed.


    They were not far from Zhong Shan''s location and quickly reached him.


    "Bai Qi? What do you intend to do?" Zhong Shan shouted coldly.


    The surrounding spectators now knew the man was called Bai Qi.


    Bai Qi stared intently at Zhong Shan, his eyes emitting a faint white light, his entire body enveloped in a murderous aura, looking extremely menacing.


    Hisrge saber trembled slightly in his hand, as if he was about to strike at Zhong Shan.


    "Stop!" one of the Snow Plum Patriarch''s disciples shouted immediately.


    Suddenly, three powerful figures stood in front of Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback. Snow Plum Patriarch''s disciples? Why were they here? To protect him?


    Each of the three warriors drew a long sword, ring coldly at Bai Qi. Clearly, to fulfill their patriarch''s wishes, they had to protect Zhong Shan at all costs. It was through Zhong Shan that the Demon-Summoning Banner might slip from Ying''s grasp.


    "Three little rats!" Bai Qi sneered.


    "What did you say?" the leader of the three roared.


    As he spoke, the three warriors attacked simultaneously, each wielding a sword. Like the Plum Blossom Sword of old, three rivers of sword energy surged towards Bai Qi, enveloping the heavens and the earth in a terrifying tsunami of sword qi.


    "Boom!"


    Suddenly, a blinding light erupted in the sky, scattering all the sword qi in an instant.


    "Roar!"


    Bai Qi let out a thunderous roar, and another beam of white light descended from the heavens. With one sh of his saber, the leader of the warriors was split in half.


    Bai Qi''s power was overwhelming, ying Ancient Immortals as easily as butchering livestock. It was too domineering, too tyrannical. One sh, one Ancient Immortal killed!


    This battlefield instantly attracted countless gazes.


    Bai Qi''s stunning disy of power shocked the crowd.


    This was true ferocity.


    The three Ancient Immortals attempting to intercept him were now down to two, their hearts trembling with fear. They had thought three against one would at least dy Bai Qi, but was this even about dying?


    Kill!


    It was aplete annihtion! Bai Qi was too domineering!


    "Who else wants to stop me?" Bai Qi''s eyes red fiercely.


    A powerful killing intent surged towards the two remaining warriors.


    Seeing this, they knew better than to fight; they fled towards the Snow Plum Patriarch, tails between their legs.


    The true ferocious ones of the world were not to be faced lightly.


    With the obstruction gone, Bai Qi turned his gaze back to Zhong Shan, his intense killing intent rushing towards him.


    The terrifying aura bent the nearby trees as if they were bowing under Bai Qi''s murderous pressure.


    On the mountain peak, Zhong Shan''s clothes fluttered in the fierce wind of Bai Qi''s aura, but there was no trace of fear on his face. He looked at Bai Qi solemnly.


    Bai Qi, gripping hisrge saber, stared at Zhong Shan, his killing intent growing denser, as if he could strike at any moment.


    Suddenly, Luo Xingchen stepped forward, positioning himself in front of Zhong Shan. The blue gemstone on his forehead glinted faintly. Luo Xingchen was prepared to defend Zhong Shan seriously.


    "That man''s killing intent is so strong, even from this distance, it makes my heart race!"


    "ying Ancient Immortals like butchering pigs, Ying''s subordinates are insane!"


    "Is he going to kill Zhong Shan? Why?"


    "Zhong Shan is in trouble!"


    "Luo Xingchen is stepping up? Is he courting death? Even if he''s an Ancient Immortal, he can''t match Bai Qi''s dominance!"


    "Indeed,st time he fought Snow Plum Patriarch''s disciples for half a day, but Bai Qi can kill those disciples in an instant. Luo Xingchen can''t possibly stand up to Bai Qi!"


    "Definitely not!"


    ...The murmurs continued as Bai Qi faced off against Luo Xingchen.


    "Bai Qi!" Zhong Shan suddenly shouted.


    Bai Qi cast a cold nce at Zhong Shan.


    "Wake up!" Zhong Shan roared, his voice booming like thunder.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s voice, Bai Qi abruptly closed his eyes and frowned, a brief expression of pain crossing his face. But in an instant, his eyes opened again, and an even more intense killing aura enveloped him.


    Though brief, some astute observers quickly pieced things together.


    "Is Bai Qi being controlled?"


    This realization sent chills down everyone''s spines. Under such a domineering killing aura, what kind of being could control someone like Bai Qi?


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/Jw-q2euGywY

 Chapter 949: The Demon-Summoning Banner

    <h4>Chapter 949: The Demon-Summoning Banner</h4>


    Bai Qi''s path was one of ughter, and his terrifying killing intent had condensed into a peerless divine weapon. His willpower was exceptionally resilient��among ancient immortals, there were likely no more than a handful with a resolve as unyielding as Bai Qi''s. Yet despite his strength, he moved like a puppet, controlled by some unseen force.


    Who could possess such power?


    Bai Qi fixed his gaze on Zhong Shan''s direction. In an instant, a surge of overwhelming killing intent shot forth from his eyes. At the same time, the peerless, murderous de in his hand descended from the heavens with a fierce and tyrannical sh.


    The de''s momentum, infused with intense killing intent, fell like a demonic apparition. The white de light transformed into the colossal phantom of a demon, cutting towards the peak where Zhong Shan stood with unparalleled ferocity.


    With this single strike, the heavens and earth seemed to change color.


    Countless ancient immortals felt a chill in their hearts. The power was terrifying��if it were them, could they avoid it?


    The ancient immortals were only concerned about evading the strike; none considered whether they could block it. Such a domineering blow was impossible to withstand.


    It was over��Zhong Shan and Luo Xingchen were doomed.


    Yet, Zhong Shan on the mountaintop continued to stare at Bai Qi, seemingly oblivious to the terrifying de''s momentum. Only Luo Xingchen moved at this moment.


    A sh of blue from the sapphire on Luo Xingchen''s forehead sent beams of green light shooting towards Bai Qi''s fearsome de.


    "Slow," Luo Xingchen intoned deeply, raising a hand skyward.


    In that moment, Bai Qi felt as if he had slowed down. The once domineering sh now seemed to move at a fraction of its speed, reduced by threefold.


    Even though it remained imposing, in Bai Qi''s mind, the slowed strike felt cumbersome and lethargic.


    "Time Confinement!" Luo Xingchen shouted again.


    The slowed de suddenly halted. The massive momentum still lingered, but Luo Xingchen''s hand had seized Bai Qi''s fierce de forcefully.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    The immense killing intent blew down, snapping many trees in its wake. Though the powerful sh was stopped, the oppressive momentum persisted.


    Time seemed to freeze at that moment.


    In the void, Luo Xingchen''s hand reached towards the sky, stopping Bai Qi''s terrifying de with a single hand��Luo Xingchen!


    The onlookers were left agape. As Bai Qi''s de descended, nearly everyone had dered Zhong Shan and Luo Xingchen dead. But Luo Xingchen had actually blocked the strike?


    Was Luo Xingchen truly this formidable?


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    Bai Qi suddenly let out a thunderous roar. His de twisted, shattering Luo Xingchen''s "Time Confinement." The massive de regained its freedom, and Luo Xingchen''srge handprint shattered explosively.


    Just as everyone thought Bai Qi would go berserk again, he suddenly thrust his de into the ground before him.


    Clutching his head with both hands, Bai Qi''s eyes turned blood-red, veins bulging.


    "Get out������������������������������������������������!"


    With a deafening roar, a powerful explosion erupted around Bai Qi.


    "Boom!" A burst of white light shattered around him.


    Bai Qi''s body sagged as he leaned on the hilt of his de, panting heavily. The crowd couldn''tprehend what had just happened, but Zhong Shan knew. Bai Qi had regained control��not through anyone else''s help, but by the sheer force of his own formidable will, dispersing the powerful intent that had been controlling him.


    After ten breaths, Bai Qi straightened up, looking around before finally fixing his gaze on Zhong Shan and then Luo Xingchen.


    "Saint King Zhong, my apologies for earlier!" Bai Qi said with candid straightforwardness, admitting his mistake without any pretense.


    "No harm done, you were also a victim!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    Bai Qi gave Zhong Shan a deep look, then offered a slight bow before turning and heading back the way he hade.


    The turn of events was so bizarre that many were left bewildered. What just happened with Bai Qi? He had rushed over, shed at Zhong Shan, failed, then bowed in apology before leaving?


    The confusion was palpable, especially among the disciples of the Snow Plum Patriarch, who were the most aggrieved. One of their own had died��someone who had sought trouble only to get killed for nothing. He was the fourth disciple to die because of Zhong Shan, and they all red at him with hatred.


    Though the surrounding experts couldn''t grasp the full situation, one thing was clear: Luo Xingchen was immensely powerful. He had forcefully intercepted Bai Qi''s fearsome strike!


    Luo Xingchen had returned to Zhong Shan''s side, but the lingering sense of his strength left asting impression on everyone.


    "The Dazheng Kingdom is truly formidable!"


    "Senior Brother, why would someone as strong as Luo Xingchen join the Dazheng Holy Court? Isn''t it the weakest of the Holy Courts?"


    "Weakest? Who told you that?"


    "Everyone says so!"


    "But if Dazheng can produce an obscure figure who matches the strength of the leaders of other sects, do you still think it''s weak?"


    All around, people voiced their confusion, with the experts from Fengzhong Domain being the loudest. At this moment, the once-weak image of the Dazheng Holy Court was transformed in everyone''s minds.


    In the distance, Bai Qi returned to the peak where he had stood earlier, surrounded by his murderous aura. Had he been a puppet?


    Bai Qi''s expression turned somber, knowing that only a sage could control someone so subtly and without notice. A sage?


    Silent and grave, Bai Qi scanned his surroundings.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    Suddenly, a deafening explosion resounded from the sky, shaking the entire N��wa Realm as if the world were about to copse. Fortunately, the tremorssted only a moment before the realm stabilized.


    The explosion originated from the sh between Ying and Zhuangzi.


    The st left some low-level cultivators bleeding from their ears, it was so overwhelmingly powerful.


    Everyone''s eyes widened as they looked towards the source of the explosion.


    Ying and Zhuangzi had separated!


    The endless butterflies and stars abruptly vanished.


    The two stood a great distance apart, and between them, space rippled with powerful waves. At the very center, a pitch-ck void had formed.


    A ck hole��a true ck hole from the Grand Thousand World.


    No one dared to test the strength of that ck hole. The sh between Ying and Zhuangzi had torn open a massive rift in space, causing the entire N��wa Realm to tremble.


    As the ck hole slowly shrank and healed, many onlookers gazed at Zhuangzi and Ying with deep-seated fear.


    Strong! Unbelievably strong!


    Two individuals capable of ripping open space itself!


    The violent spatial tremors had reduced the surroundings to a desert-like wastnd, except for the mountain peak where Bai Qi stood, which remained intact. As the ck hole shrank and finally vanished, Ying and Zhuangzi stood facing each other from a distance.


    "Who won?"


    "No idea!"


    "We''ll find out soon enough!"


    People were fixated on determining the victor between the two.


    "Daqin? A truly powerful dynasty, I''m looking forward to it!" Zhuangzi remarked with a deep breath.


    "Looking forward? Then watch carefully!" Ying replied nonchntly.


    "Very well, Zhuang Zhou will keep these eyes open to witness the might of the supreme dynasty!" Zhuangzi nodded.


    "Indeed," Ying acknowledged with a nod.


    "Sages have arrived; I won''t interfere any longer. Take care of yourself," Zhuangzi said, casting a deep look at Ying.


    Ying remained calm but nodded in agreement.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhuangzi and a group of his disciples ascended into the sky, disappearing in a sh of light.


    "Who won?"


    "Still no idea!"


    "Can''t tell!"


    The battle between Ying and Zhuangzi left no clear oue. Neither had used their full strength, and their confrontation seemed more like a test of skill than a decisive fight. The result? Inconclusive. But the fact that Ying could contend with Zhuangzi ensured that today''s battle would be remembered and talked about for ages.


    Ying nced around calmly beforending on the mountain peak. With Zhuangzi gone, who else would dare to step forward?


    The gathered ancient immortals exchanged wary nces, but none dared approach.


    The Snow Plum Patriarch and other powerful figures fixed their intense gazes on the mountain.


    Yingnded at the peak, and Bai Qi greeted him with a respectful bow but said nothing.


    At that moment, the ck mist on the mountain suddenly converged, revealing a figure at the center.


    A man in ck robes, holding a thirteen-colored banner.


    "Saint King, mission aplished!" Guiguzi said calmly.


    Mission aplished? Countless experts in the distance looked puzzled.


    Ying reached out and took the Demon-Summoning Banner.


    When Ying unfurled the banner, it radiated thirteen colors, with numerous totems of demonic beasts imprinted on it.


    "Good," Ying nodded.


    The three of them ascended into the sky, with all eyes fixed on the Demon-Summoning Banner in Ying''s hand. Yet no one dared to make a move to snatch it.


    Such dominance��holding the Demon-Summoning Banner without fear of anyone taking it!


    Ying surveyed the surrounding experts before suddenly tossing the banner into the sky. It soared upwards.


    "Let''s go," Ying said calmly.


    With that, Guiguzi and Bai Qi followed him, turning into streaks of light and disappearing into the distance.


    The crowd watched in astonishment. Did Ying really leave? Did he abandon the Demon-Summoning Banner?


    The area fell into silence as everyone stared at the banner slowly descending from the sky. Why would Ying, after so much effort and even offending three ancient immortals, abandon the banner?


    What was going on?


    People were bewildered. However, some recalled Guiguzi''s words, "mission aplished," indicating that Ying''s goal had been achieved during the dy. What had Guiguzi done?


    After a moment of silence, attention shifted back to the descending Demon-Summoning Banner.


    Below, a man in purple robes stood��the leader of the Purple Heaven Dao Field.


    As the Purple Heaven Leader realized the banner was falling directly towards him, he was momentarily excited. Was this destiny?


    Destiny? The thought of destiny quickly chilled his excitement. Over the past months, the leader had be terrified of "destiny," gued by misfortune and bad luck. Was the banner''s descent a blessing or another curse?


    Filled with dread, the Purple Heaven Leader looked around, seeing the greed and malevolence in the eyes of countless experts fixated on him.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/Jw-q2euGywY

 Chapter 950: The Demon-Summoning Banner in Zhong Shan鈥檚 Hands

    <h4>Chapter 950: The Demon-Summoning Banner in Zhong Shan''s Hands</h4>


    Destiny? At the thought of destiny, the Purple Heaven Leader''s initial excitement turned to icy dread. Over the past few months, he had been gued by misfortune, and now, as the Demon-Summoning Banner descended toward him, he couldn''t help but see it as another harbinger of bad luck.


    Fearfully ncing around, he saw the greed in the eyes of countless experts. Each one of them was staring at him with malevolent intent.


    "@#��%...&!" the Purple Heaven Leader muttered under his breath, his heart racing with anxiety. He desperately wanted to shout that he was only here to observe, but it seemed the heavens themselves conspired to prevent him from speaking. The Demon-Summoning Banner seemed to be heading straight for his hand as if he had used a secret technique to attract it.


    The Purple Heaven Leader was filled with hatred and dread. The Demon-Summoning Banner was nothing short of a death sentence!


    Escape?


    The thought of fleeing surged within him. If he could escape, perhaps others wouldn''t believe he had tried to seize the banner. With a sudden leap, he tried to take flight.


    But the moment he moved, it was like poking a ho''s nest. The tension around him exploded.


    "He''s trying to snatch the Demon-Summoning Banner!"


    "He''s seeking death!"


    "Kill him!"


    Voices roared from all directions, filled with madness and excitement. In an instant, over a hundred powerful artifacts and attacks wereunched at him. Great Immortals and Ancient Immortals alike unleashed their might, and even a yellow-robed Ancestor Immortal couldn''t resist, striking out with a force of heavenly power.


    The Purple Heaven Leader realized his mistake the moment he took off. There was no time for exnations; he was doomed.


    "My life is over������������������������������������������������!" he cried out in despair, engulfed by the overwhelming onught.


    From a distance, Zhong Shan wiped a bead of cold sweat from his forehead. The Purple Heaven Leader was indeed extremely unlucky!


    The once proud Purple Heaven Leader had died just like that, in confusion and without understanding.


    Themotion caused a ripple effect, drawing countless powerful figures into the fray. The Demon-Summoning Banner was free once more.


    The distant sky became a chaotic scene, filled with shadows of countless figures, artifacts, and dazzling spells. The sounds of battle were incessant.


    The Demon-Summoning Banner! It was a curse in disguise!


    Reflecting on the countless corpses along the way, Zhong Shan sighed. He wondered how many more would die because of the Demon-Summoning Banner. It was only when Ying had appeared and suppressed the crowd that there had been a moment of peace.


    But why, after obtaining the Demon-Summoning Banner, had Ying discarded it?


    From the distance, leaders of various factions, who had remained unmoved until now, furrowed their brows and nced at Zhong Shan. After seeming to issue some orders, they made their way towards the center of themotion.


    Magu, riding a great green snake, flew forward, and the Snow Plum Patriarch also stepped up.


    Ancestor Immortals��Ancestor Immortals were getting involved.


    Instantly, that area was enveloped in radiant light, obscuring the internal struggle.


    "Saint King, what should we do?" Luo Xingchen asked with a frown.


    The situation was escting beyondprehension. Was it truly necessary?


    "Let''s go!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    With Luo Xingchen in tow, Zhong Shan turned and swiftly retreated, knowing that attempting to seize the Demon-Summoning Banner was a death sentence. However, they hadn''t flown far when a group of white-robed individuals intercepted them, blocking their path at a mountain peak.


    "Disciples of the Snow Plum Patriarch? What do you intend to do now? Can''t ept defeat?" Zhong Shan''s voice was cold.


    One of them stepped forward and spoke, "The Patriarch said that the Demon-Summoning Banner might still fall into your hands, so we have to keep an eye on you!"


    Indeed, one or two people couldn''t deal with Zhong Shan, but nearly a hundred? They wouldn''t be afraid of him.


    Zhong Shan stared intently at the menacing individual who had spoken. The man stared back unflinchingly, seemingly trying to overpower Zhong Shan with his presence.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan shook his head and said, "The Snow Plum Patriarch is truly cunning!"


    Hearing Zhong Shan praise their patriarch, the disciples showed smug smiles.


    "Indeed!" Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    Indeed? The Snow Plum Patriarch''s disciples looked at Zhong Shan with confusion. What did he mean?


    "The Demon-Summoning Banner is indeed with me," Zhong Shan continued.


    "@#%%...&!" The disciples were thrown into disarray.


    "What did he just say, junior brother?"


    "He said the Demon-Summoning Banner is in his hands!"


    "Is Zhong Shan insane?"


    "Yeah, he must be. If the banner was with him, why would our master and all the Ancestor Immortals be fighting for it?"


    As the disciples mocked Zhong Shan, he suddenly revealed arge banner in his right hand. The banner shimmered with thirteen colors��the Demon-Summoning Banner!


    The disciples of the Snow Plum Patriarch were stunned.


    What was happening? They could see clearly that it was identical to the banner Ying had thrown earlier. But hadn''t the Ancestor and Ancient Immortals been fighting over it? How did it suddenly appear in Zhong Shan''s hands?


    The disciples'' eyes twitched uncontrobly. This was too bizarre!


    What kind of sorcery was this?


    The disciples stared at Zhong Shan, speechless for a moment. The menacing disciple finally spoke, "Impossible! The Demon-Summoning Banner is being contested by the Ancestor Immortals. How could it be in your hands? Are you saying all the Ancestor Immortals are blind?"


    "Ah, that''s the difference between you and the Snow Plum Patriarch," Zhong Shanmented, shaking his head.


    The disciples were at a loss for words.


    "The Snow Plum Patriarch can foresee such things, but clearly, you cannot. This is destiny. Even a sage cannot defy destiny. Do you think the Ancestor Immortals can defy it? Destiny has ced the Demon-Summoning Banner in my hands. What can I do about it?" Zhong Shan said, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.


    "@#��%...&@!" the disciples muttered.


    This talk of destiny was too far-fetched. But how else could it exin the banner ending up in Zhong Shan''s hands? It was the first time he''d seen it!


    "Is it real or fake? I can tell at a nce. Hand over the Demon-Summoning Banner!" the menacing disciple demanded.


    "And if I refuse?" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Snow Plum Sword Formation!" the disciple shouted.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    The disciples of the Snow Plum Patriarch immediately formed a powerful formation, their expressions stern and ready for battle.


    "Alright, I''ll give it to you!" Zhong Shan suddenly said.


    The Snow Plum Patriarch''s disciples were so frustrated they could almost vomit blood. They had just steeled themselves for a fight, only to have Zhong Shan dete their momentum with a single sentence.


    The menacing disciple extended his hand in frustration as Zhong Shan tossed the banner to him.


    "Are you really giving it to us?" The disciples were incredulous.


    They looked at each other in bewilderment but then turned to the menacing disciple for confirmation.


    "Fourth Senior Brother, is it real?" one of them asked.


    The menacing disciple probed the banner with his divine sense but found nothing amiss. Frowning, he realized that deciphering a sage''s artifact wasn''t something he could do immediately.


    "It seems real," he said, still feeling like he was in a dream.


    "Really?" The disciples grew excited.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan gave Luo Xingchen a subtle signal.


    Luo Xingchen suddenly shouted, "Give me back my Demon-Summoning Banner����������������������������������!"


    His shout startled the Snow Plum Patriarch''s disciples, causing their hearts to skip a beat. Why was he shouting?


    As they recovered, they realized the gravity of the situation. Countless powerful figures were now focusing their attention on them.


    "The Demon-Summoning Banner?"


    "Why is it there?"


    "Is it really the Demon-Summoning Banner?"


    "Better believe it than miss it!"


    A multitude of experts began converging on their position.


    "Fourth Senior Brother, we need to go, now������������������������������������������������!" one of the disciples cried out in panic.


    The menacing disciple, pressured by the urgency of the situation, felt the need to escape. If they didn''t flee, the Ancestor Immortals would soon arrive!


    Turning on his heel, he grabbed the banner and led his three junior brothers in a hasty retreat.


    Their flight only confirmed suspicions. If they weren''t running, others might not have believed it, but their escape made it clear.


    "It''s really the Demon-Summoning Banner?"


    "Chase them!"


    "Master, the Demon-Summoning Banner is here!"


    "Go after them!"


    A throng of powerful figures began pursuing the fourth senior brother of the Snow Plum Patriarch.


    The Snow Plum Patriarch''s disciples felt a mix of worry and excitement.


    "Alright, now stop blocking my path. The Demon-Summoning Banner is yours," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "No, our master has ordered us to follow you," one disciple insisted.


    "But I''ve already given you the banner. What more do you want?"


    "Perhaps, due to destiny, the banner might return to your hands," another disciple said stubbornly.


    Zhong Shan stared at the disciple, who met his gaze defiantly, much like the fourth senior brother had earlier.


    "Alright!" Zhong Shan suddenly sighed.


    Alright? What did he mean?


    "The Demon-Summoning Banner is indeed with me!" Zhong Shan said again.


    "@#��%...&@!" The disciples were utterly perplexed. Was Zhong Shan mad?


    At that moment, Zhong Shan extended his palm, revealing another identical Demon-Summoning Banner.


    "@#��%...&@!" The disciples werepletely stunned. How was there another one?


    "Didn''t you give the banner to the fourth senior brother? How can it still be with you?" one disciple shouted in confusion.


    "It''s destiny. Your fourth senior brother forgot to take it with him," Zhong Shan said nonchntly.


    "...!"


    "Is it real or fake? I can tell at a nce. Hand over the banner!" the stubborn disciple demanded.


    "And if I refuse?"


    "Snow Plum Sword Formation!"


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    "Alright, I''ll give it to you!" Zhong Shan handed over the banner again.


    "It seems real?" the disciple said, examining it.


    "Give me back my Demon-Summoning Banner!" Luo Xingchen shouted once more.


    The disciple holding the banner froze, looking at Zhong Shan in disbelief.


    By this time, another group of powerful figures had surrounded them.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/Jw-q2euGywY

 Chapter 951: The Sage鈥檚 Objective

    <h4>Chapter 951: The Sage''s Objective</h4>


    On the second day, atop a mountain peak, Luo Xingchen faced five powerful individuals, each gripping a weapon and staring intently at him.


    "Take the Demon-Summoning Banner and get lost!" Luo Xingchen snapped, tossing a Demon-Summoning Banner towards them.


    The five immediately turned to chase after it, but before they could reach it, someone intercepted the banner. A new round of battles for the Demon-Summoning Banner began.


    Luo Xingchen''s figure blurred and disappeared from the peak.


    In a secluded valley, Luo Xingchen looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Saint King, we''ve already distributed the twentieth Demon-Summoning Banner! They''ve all been scattered!" Luo Xingchen''s face twitched.


    Seeing Zhong Shan produce banner after banner, Luo Xingchen understood the n. The banners wereing from the underworld. The Saint King''s foresight was remarkable. These Demon-Summoning Banners were soplex that even he would need a long time to study them.


    "The N��wa Realm must be in chaos by now," Zhong Shan said with a nod.


    "Indeed, with twenty Demon-Summoning Banners out there, the fights are everywhere!" Luo Xingchen confirmed.


    "Yes, these were created by Mud Buddha, Nangong Sheng, and the craftsmen of the Ministry of Works. There are a total of eight hundred ny-five. Distribute them all," Zhong Shan instructed calmly.


    Luo Xingchen''s face twitched again.


    Now the Demon-Summoning Banners were truly asmon as cabbages��nearly a thousand of them?


    Luo Xingchen took the mountain-sized pile of Demon-Summoning Banners and flew off, quickly disappearing into the distance using his time-based abilities, easily avoiding detection.


    Eight hundred ny-five Demon-Summoning Banners were scattered far and wide, some falling into people''s hands seemingly by ''destiny.'' All around, figures carrying the banners fled, and news of the pursuit of these banners spread everywhere.


    "Senior Brother, a Demon-Summoning Banner has appeared in the hands of Wuxuzi in the east! Chase him!"


    "Junior Brother, you''re mistaken. It''s in the hands of Ximenzi in the west! Head that way!"


    "It''s to the east!"


    "It''s to the west!"


    As the two argued, a red-robed figure suddenly flew in from afar.


    "Master!" the two called out to the red-robed figure.


    "Hurry, I have obtained a Demon-Summoning Banner. We must leave the N��wa Realm immediately!" the red-robed figure shouted.


    The senior and junior brothers were left speechless.


    "Uncle has returned!" the junior brother suddenly eximed, seeing a green-robed figure appear in the distance.


    "Uncle, Master has obtained..." he started to say.


    But before he could finish, the green-robed figure interrupted, "Hurry, I have obtained a Demon-Summoning Banner. We must leave the N��wa Realm immediately!"


    "You obtained one too?" the brothers asked in astonishment.


    "What is going on?" their uncle asked, confused.


    "...!" the brothers were at a loss.


    Meanwhile, in another valley in the N��wa Realm, Ying also stood before a Demon-Summoning Banner. Guiguzi held the banner, infusing it with ck energy.


    "Crack!"


    The Demon-Summoning Banner suddenly shattered,pletely disintegrating.


    "A fake," Guiguzi said calmly.


    "Rumor has it that this came from Zhong Shan''s hands. Didn''t you say the Demon-Summoning Banner would pass through his hands?" Bai Qi asked, puzzled.


    "Zhong Shan couldn''t have faked it?" Guiguzi replied indifferently.


    Bai Qi was momentarily speechless.


    "Tell us about your experience when you were controlled," Ying suddenly interjected.


    "Yes, at the time, I had no feeling whatsoever. I was controlled without any reaction until Zhong Shan''s loud shout brought me back to a slight consciousness!" Bai Qi immediately responded.


    "Oh, so even though you possess the ability to conceal your heavenly secrets, you were still controlled?" Guiguzi asked in a serious tone.


    "Yes! There was no reaction from my heavenly secret. I have cultivated to the fifth level, reaching the peak. Even if a sage tried to invade my consciousness, I would have known!" Bai Qi frowned.


    "No, there is one sage who can erode your consciousness without you noticing," Ying suddenly said.


    "Saint King, do you mean the M��ti��n Sage?" Guiguzi inquired.


    "Exactly. The Heavenly Secret Diagram was originally left in the Small Thousand World by the M��ti��n Sage. It was his technique. If he wanted to erode Bai Qi, how could the heavenly secret prevent it?" Ying said solemnly.


    "The M��ti��n Sage? Another sage!" Guiguzi responded gravely.


    "No matter how many sagese, we will proceed ording to our original n!" Ying said resolutely.


    "Yes!"��


    The Demon-Summoning Banners had stirred up chaos all around, while Zhong Shan sat alone in a secluded valley.


    A multitude of imitation Demon-Summoning Banners had caused bloodshed and chaos in the N��wa Realm. Although it seemed chaotic, Zhong Shan knew that these fake banners had actually alleviated the tense atmosphere.


    With so many Demon-Summoning Banners out there, it would be hard to discern the real ones from the fakes!


    Even the Ancestor Immortals wouldn''t be able to guess correctly!


    As Zhong Shan leisurely sipped his tea, waiting, a shadow suddenly shed in the valley!


    Magu arrived unexpectedly!


    "The Serpent Queen?" Zhong Shan stood up.


    Magu approached Zhong Shan, her expression very serious. "Zhong Shan, do you remember our conversation from a few months ago?"


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly, "I did promise you that as long as it didn''t go against my will, I would help you with whatever was within my power."


    "Good!" The Serpent Queen exhaled in relief.


    "Tell me, what do you need?" Zhong Shan asked directly, understanding that Magu''s visit was to have him fulfill his promise.


    Magu nodded, and with a wave of her hand, a small g appeared in her palm!


    "The Demon-Summoning Banner?" Zhong Shan said in surprise.


    Where did the Serpent Queen get this from? Could it be one of his fake products?


    "This is what I inadvertently took from the Ancestor Immortals! They are probably still fighting over the fake banners!" Magu exined.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    What did she mean? Was the Serpent Queen also ying the fake game?


    "This one is real. What I need you to do is return the Demon-Summoning Banner to Qingqiu, to the Fox n. It originally belonged to Qingqiu!" Magu said solemnly.


    "With the current chaos outside, you could go to Qingqiu yourself. Why do you need me to handle such a simple task?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Chaos?" Magu didn''t understand at first.


    "Yes, if you go out now, there should be no problem," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Shaking her head, Magu revealed a bitter smile. "It''s toote. I''ve calcted it; my time is almost up," Magu said with a hint of sorrow.


    "Your time is up?" Zhong Shan was puzzled because he didn''t see any signs of the Five Decays of Heaven and Man on Magu.


    "I''ve been targeted by a sage! Just now, when I escaped from the Ancestor Immortals, a sage helped me, but I know that this help was meant to take my life," Magu said bitterly.


    Zhong Shan looked at Magu strangely, staying silent for a long time.


    "Don''t worry. The sages won''t interfere with the Demon-Summoning Banner for now! I just ask you to return it to the Fox n in Qingqiu. This banner originally belongs to them," Magu said.


    "They won''t interfere? Why won''t the sages take action over the Demon-Summoning Banner? What are they after?" Zhong Shan immediately asked.


    This was something Zhong Shan couldn''t understand��why the sages hadn''t made a move, and why Ying had discarded the Demon-Summoning Banner.


    "Because the Demon-Summoning Banner will eventually lead the holder to N��wa''s tomb. They want to find the real N��wa''s tomb," Magu exined.


    "N��wa''s tomb? Why?" Zhong Shan was still confused.


    "Because it contains a treasure that all the sages in the world desire, the only item buried with N��wa," Magu said.


    "N��wa''s burial treasure? The only one? What could be more valuable than a sage''s treasure? No, if N��wa knew she was going to die, no treasure would be of any use unless it held significant sentimental value. What is it?" Zhong Shan quickly analyzed.


    "You''re right. The only thing N��wa couldn''t part with was a relic left by her husband," Magu said.


    "N��wa''s husband?"


    "Fuxi!"


    "Fuxi?"


    "Yes, it''s Fuxi''s relic, the ''Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram,'' which contains his life''s work. Even Hongjun once borrowed it from N��wa to study," Magu said.


    "No wonder, no wonder!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    No wonder Guiguzi and the others let go of the Demon-Summoning Banner. Their goal was the ultimate treasure of the fate master, the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram.


    "I''ve told you everything. I don''t know who will end up with the Demon-Summoning Banner, but my calctions show that thest person will be you. I only hope that if it remains in your hands, you will bring it to Qingqiu," Magu said.


    "Alright, I promise you," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Thank you! This will be thest thing I do for the Fox n," Magu said bitterly.


    After giving Zhong Shan a deep look, Zhong Shan asked, "I want to know who you are."


    "It doesn''t matter who I am anymore because I will soon die. I can feel his gaze; that sage has been watching me," Magu said bitterly.


    With that, she handed the Demon-Summoning Banner to Zhong Shan.


    As Zhong Shan epted it, he asked again, "Are you from the Fox n, the former Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox?"


    Magu gave a bitter smile, turned, and flew into the sky.


    Arge green snake appeared under her feet.


    As she flew away from Zhong Shan, Magu shouted at the sky, "M��ti��n,e out! Sneaking around like this, what kind of sage are you?" she yelled.


    Her shout caused the fighting experts to suddenly go quiet.


    Everyone looked at Magu, wondering what had happened to the Serpent Queen.


    M��ti��n? Who was M��ti��n?


    Soon, some people realized who M��ti��n was��the M��ti��n Sage?


    The sage who had attained sagehood over a hundred years ago?


    A sage was here? All battles ceased immediately. Fight? Who would dare topete for the Demon-Summoning Banner in the presence of a sage?


    Magu red at the sky. People watched her silently.


    At that moment, a white-robed youth appeared above Magu.


    "Is it him?" Zhong Shan''s heart skipped a beat.


    This white-robed youth was the same one Zhong Shan had seen before entering the N��wa Realm. His face was obscured, a sage! And back then, he had not only looked at Magu but also at the Nine-Tailed Princess Su Rouniang!


    Was he choosing a Nine-Tailed Fox? In the end, he chose Magu? Zhong Shan took a deep breath.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 952: He Will Avenge Me

    <h4>Chapter 952: He Will Avenge Me</h4>


    The M��ti��n Sage, d in white, hovered high above, gazing down at the serpentine-robed Serpent Queen below.


    People couldn''t discern the sage''s features, for he represented the heavens, and the heavens have no fixed form��they epass all forms. A sage is the same. The presence of the M��ti��n Sage exuded no aura, yet an inexplicable sense of majesty prated everyone''s hearts.


    In an instant, almost everyone felt a tremor in their hearts, as if facing divine might. A feeling of reverence suddenly emerged within them. Indeed, some whocked firm resolve had already knelt down. This was a true sage, not a mere remnant of divine consciousness taking over a body.


    With the sage''s arrival, silence reigned supreme, and the world seemed toe to a halt.


    Many didn''t dare to look up, and those who did felt that the entire world had faded away, leaving only one focal point��the M��ti��n Sage.


    "Hissss��������������������������������������!"


    The great green snake under the Serpent Queen hissed, seemingly resisting the sage, emitting low growls while ring coldly at him.


    "A remnant of N��wa''s bloodline. s, N��wa is dead, and no amount of pride can change that," the M��ti��n Sage said lightly. His voice was soft, as if it prated everyone''s hearts.


    "M��ti��n Sage, what grudge do we have that you must follow me?" Magu asked coldly.


    Grudge? The surrounding experts were shocked. Did the Serpent Queen have a grudge against a sage?


    "You and I have no grudge, but destiny cannot be defied. You should stop struggling," the M��ti��n Sage said calmly. His words seemed to resonate with everyone, making them feel that the sage''s words were indeed correct.


    "Hahaha, destiny? That''s just your excuse. M��ti��n Sage, you covet the ''Ch�� M��i W��ng Li��ng,'' the Four Ghosts Heavenly Dao Formation? You merely want to turn me into a ''Ch��'' divine weapon!" Magu retorted with scorn.


    Ch�� M��i W��ng Li��ng, Four Ghosts Heavenly Dao Formation? Ch�� divine weapon?


    From a distance, Zhong Shan''s heart sank. The M��ti��n Sage wanted to forge a sage''s artifact and turn Magu into a human-shaped weapon?


    "Destiny cannot be defied. I am merely acting on behalf of the heavens," the M��ti��n Sage replied serenely.


    "Hmph, acting on behalf of the heavens? Do you know who I am?" Magu asked coldly.


    "Who are you?" the M��ti��n Sage responded indifferently.


    As he spoke, Magu''s hat suddenly fell, revealing an extremely ugly face, marred with countless scars like centipedes.


    "Is that the Serpent Queen?"


    "Why is her face so hideous?"


    "It''s not hideous, it''s scarred��countless scars like centipedes! Why is she like this?"


    The onlookers were perplexed.


    "You should know who I am. Think carefully about the consequences before you try to kill me!" Magu said sternly.


    Everyone around looked at Magu in bewilderment. What was going on? Was she threatening a sage? Who could she be, other than the Serpent Queen?


    People''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    "Seven sages defied destiny, were struck down, and perished. Do you think you can threaten me with them, Bao Si?" the M��ti��n Sage replied calmly.


    Bao Si? Zhong Shan''s heart skipped a beat upon hearing the name. The historical figure of Bao Si was known for her beauty and the chaos she brought upon the Zhou Dynasty. Was Magu revealing herself as Bao Si?


    The spectators were stunned. The Serpent Queen was actually Bao Si? The same Bao Si who was known for her unparalleled beauty and the downfall of an empire?


    Magu''s expression was resolute. "He will avenge me!"


    The M��ti��n Sage''s eyes narrowed slightly. "You think he can save you? Your husband, Fuxi, is long gone. No one can oppose destiny."


    "You underestimate him. Even in death, his influence is profound," Magu replied.


    The tension in the air was palpable. The M��ti��n Sage floated serenely, yet his presence was suffocating.


    Zhong Shan observed the exchange with growing intrigue. The stakes were high, and the true power dynamics were just beginning to unfold.


    Bao Si?


    Many did not understand this name, but the Ancestor Immortals and some of the powerful Ancient Immortals present felt their hearts skip a beat.


    Bao Si?


    The most beautiful woman in the world from ancient times? How could that be possible? The disfigured woman before them bore no resemnce to the legendary beauty.


    Bao Si, the Empress of the Great Zhou Dynasty, and consort of King You of Zhou?


    The mighty figures could never forget that era, the golden age of the Great Zhou Dynasty when a single beacon could summon ten thousand allies, and even sages gathered to pay tribute!


    The Great Zhou Dynasty had perished! Everything about Great Zhou had vanished, King You was dead, and Bao Si was dead!


    How could this disfigured woman be Bao Si?


    But a sage had spoken; who could doubt it? She had survived?


    "You do know who I am!" Bao Si said coldly.


    "Defying destiny is impossible. Because of N��wa, you survived, but destiny is unchangeable. Those who should die must die. This is destiny," the M��ti��n Sage said lightly.


    As he spoke, the M��ti��n Sage flipped his hand, and a dark shadow appeared near Magu.


    The shadow was surrounded by dense ck mist, obscuring its features, but a towering dark pir of light was faintly visible.


    "Ch��! You have indeed already collected ''Ch��.'' The M��ti��n Sage''s artifact. Haha, just as we discussed long ago, the M��ti��n Sage''s artifacts are always despicable!" Magu spat out, ripping away any pretense.


    "Despicable? Who else said that?" M��ti��n''s tone wavered slightly.


    "N��wa said it, Taishang said it, Tongtian said it, and even Hongjun said it. All seven sages have said it!" Bao Si retorted coldly.


    As she spoke, therge snake beneath her suddenly roared at the ''Ch��.''


    With that roar, the surrounding space rippled with immense force. The mighty snake shed with ''Ch��'' in a fierce battle.


    Zhong Shan could see that the giant green snake was also enveloped by a massive green Heavenly Dao.


    "Hongjun truly said that?" A flicker of emotion passed through M��ti��n''s voice.


    "Yes, they all said it. No one respects you. Hiding in the Small Thousand World, haha, a lone sage without the courage to ''hear'' or ''see,'' cowardly as a rat!" Bao Si shouted.


    The M��ti��n Sage could bear no more. With a wave of his hand, a ck cage appeared around Bao Si, attempting to imprison her.


    "I know I can''t escape this cmity today. I never expected to. M��ti��n, just wait! Someone will avenge me. Today you turn me into a puppet; tomorrow, someone will turn you into a puppet! Just wait, wait!" Bao Si screamed.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    Nearby, the great green snake exploded violently, creating a terrifying shockwave that formed a massive wave, expanding the space outward. Countless mountains were pulverized into fine sand, and a gigantic ck hole appeared in the sky, sucking in everything around it.


    The great green snake''s self-destruction aimed to destroy M��ti��n''s ''Ch��.''


    Knowing she was doomed, Bao Si went mad.


    With the explosion, ''Ch��'' shook violently, seemingly heavily damaged.


    "Courting death!" The M��ti��n Sage retrieved ''Ch��,'' finally showing anger.


    He reached down with his hand.


    Seeing this, the surrounding Ancestor Immortals and Ancient Immortals couldn''t help but feel a deep sense of dread. The wrath of a sage was not something to be taken lightly.


    M��ti��n''s hand descended like the judgment of the heavens, aiming to crush Bao Si.


    Bao Si stood defiantly, staring back at M��ti��n with unwavering eyes.


    "You think you can kill me so easily? I will not go quietly!" Bao Si shouted, her voice filled with a fierce resolve that sent chills through those watching.


    Just as M��ti��n''s hand was about to make contact, a powerful aura burst forth from Bao Si, and she initiated a desperate counterattack, drawing on everyst ounce of her strength.


    The sh between Bao Si''s defiance and M��ti��n''s overwhelming power was a sight to behold, shaking the very fabric of the N��wa Realm.


    The onlookers, though trembling with fear and awe, couldn''t look away. This was a battle between the unstoppable force of a sage and the unyielding spirit of a legendary figure.


    As the dust settled and the echoes of the sh faded, the oue hung in the bnce, leaving everyone breathless with anticipation.


    "You want to refine me? Ha!" Bao Si''s face showed a hint of madness.


    "Hmph!"


    The ck cage firmly trapped Bao Si.


    "You want to self-destruct? Trying tricks in front of me?" M��ti��n showed a look of disdain.


    Bao Si''s defiant face turned pale. She red at M��ti��n, spitting out a mouthful of ck blood. "I will be waiting for you. You will be a puppet too!" Bao Si''s expression became increasingly despondent.


    "When Hongjun was alive, I might have feared you. But Hongjun is dead, and all seven sages have fallen. As for your husband? King You of Zhou? I''ve never met him, but I''m certain he was just a pawn of Hongjun, cooperating with him. You dare to threaten me?" M��ti��n''s tone was full of scorn.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    With a loud explosion, Bao Si reverted to her true form��a gigantic nine-tailed fox. At that moment, Bao Si closed her eyes for thest time.


    Before closing her eyes, Bao Si weakly said her final words, "He will avenge me!"


    "He will avenge me!" Her voice was resolute. Even Zhong Shan noticed that when Bao Si uttered these words, she had a sweet smile on her face, a smile filled with fond memories just before her death.


    Ignoring Bao Si''s words, M��ti��n reached out, and her body disappeared in an instant.


    The sage had left, and everyone felt a heavy weight on their hearts.


    The surrounding mountains andnd had been pulverized into fine sand. The power to destroy the world with a mere gesture��that was a sage. Before a sage, everything was like an ant.


    And the legendary "Four Ghosts Heavenly Dao Formation" of the M��ti��n Sage had now collected the second "Ch��."


    A sage! Unmatchable! Everyone was filled with deep fear, and it took a long time before people began to move again.


    In a distant valley, Zhong Shan watched Bao Si die, his heart heavy with emotion.


    It wasn''t that Zhong Shan didn''t want to help Bao Si, but that he simply couldn''t. With a sage watching, even trying to send her to the underworld was impossible. Ji Gongnie had reincarnated and taken the name Niefanchen, but would it matter? M��ti��n Sage didn''t care about King You of Zhou.


    A pawn of Hongjun? Perhaps. Zhong Shan thought, Once Niefanchen grows stronger, we''ll see what happens to this world!


    After M��ti��n Sage left, numerous powerful individuals dared to approach and inspect the area. Countless experts rushed in, but Zhong Shan did not join them. Instead, he returned to the small valley, his heart weighed down.


    Examining the Demon-Summoning Banner in his hand, Zhong Shan attempted to transport it to the underworld, only to find that it was impossible. It seemed as if a force in the yang realm was pulling the banner back.


    Zhong Shan didn''t force it. He simply ced the Demon-Summoning Banner close to his chest, hiding it.


    Not long after, Luo Xingchen returned.


    "Saint King, it''s done. All the Demon-Summoning Banners have been distributed throughout the N��wa Realm!" Luo Xingchen reported.


    "Good!"


    "Saint King, what happened just now? The shockwaves were incredibly strong."


    "A sage was here."


    "A sage?"


    Zhong Shan recounted the events, leaving Luo Xingchen in deep silence.


    "Saint King, what do we do next? Should we leave the N��wa Realm immediately?" Luo Xingchen asked, frowning.


    "Leave? No one can leave now! The entrance to the N��wa Realm is surely sealed by powerful figures," Zhong Shan said gravely.


    At the entrance to the N��wa Realm, numerous powerful figures were gathered, but no one was entering or leaving. Suddenly, two great immortals attempted to charge through the entrance.


    "Boom!"


    The two were halted in mid-air. A red-robed figure reached out and retrieved a scroll of the Demon-Summoning Banner from one of the great immortals.


    The red-robed figure quickly flew to the edge of the N��wa Realm''s entrance and handed the scroll to a red-haired elder.


    "Master, we found another Demon-Summoning Banner!" the red-robed figure said with a peculiar expression.


    The elder''s hand shed with red light, and the Demon-Summoning Banner burned to ashes.


    "A fake," the elder said tly.


    The red-robed figure nodded, turning to address those attempting to leave, "No one is allowed to leave until the real Demon-Summoning Banner appears!"


    "Why can''t we leave? We don''t have the Demon-Summoning Banner!" someone suddenly shouted.


    A nearby person pulled him aside and whispered, "Don''t shout. Two Ancestor Immortals are guarding the exit. Shouting won''t help!"


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 953: The Art of Duplication

    <h4>Chapter 953: The Art of Duplication</h4>


    In the realm of Nuwa, within a secluded valley, Ying was attentively listening to Bai Qi''s report on thetest news from the outside world.


    "Saint King, it''s true. The Heaven-Covering Sage has killed Bao Si!" Bai Qi said solemnly.


    Ying pondered for a moment and then said lightly, "The Four Ghost Heavenly Dao Formation? It is said to rival the power of the Immortal Execution Sword Formation. I wonder how it trulypares to the genuine Immortal Execution Sword Formation."


    "The Immortal Execution Sword Formation? Wasn''t that destroyed?" Bai Qi frowned.


    "Destroyed? Just wait and see!" Ying replied indifferently.


    "Yes, sir!"


    The appearance of a sage spread like wildfire, reaching every corner of the world. Countless powerful beings flew towards the ce where Bao Si had died. Even though they couldn''t witness the result, experiencing the presence of a sage was everyone''s greatest wish.


    In a nearby valley, Zhong Shan erected a stone stele.


    "To my old friend, the Tomb of Ma Gu!"


    Even though the Heaven-Covering Sage had taken her body, Zhong Shan still set up an empty grave for her.


    Seeing more and more powerful beings gathering, Zhong Shan turned to Luo Xingchen and said, "Let''s go!"


    "Yes!"


    "Go? Where do you think you''re going?" A furious shout suddenly erupted.


    A figure abruptly blocked Zhong Shan''s path.


    It was Ancestor Xue Mei!


    Earlier, Ancestor Xue Mei had been contending with a group of ancestors for the Demon Summoning Banner. In the end, one of the ancestors had obtained it, only to realize that the banner was fake.


    Fake? The group of ancestors was filled with rage because they were certain that the banner Ying had thrown was genuine. But how had it turned fake mid-way? There was only one possibility �C someone had swapped it.


    Who?


    In an instant, the group of ancestors recalled someone �C the Snake Queen Cult Leader.


    The ancestors dispersed, searching everywhere. Finally, they found the Snake Queen Cult Leader, who turned out to be Bao Si.


    Not long ago, Bao Si had been brutally killed by the Heaven-Covering Sage.


    Now, the realm of Nuwa was filled with Demon Summoning Banners, but they were all fake. Banners were everywhere, causing great confusion among the ancestors.


    Ancestor Xue Mei discovered that all one hundred disciples she had brought with her were dead.


    Ancestor Xue Mei''s eyelids twitched uncontrobly. Who? Who had killed her disciples?


    After some calctions, Ancestor Xue Mei was astonished to find that each of her disciples had died at the hands of different factions. In other words, while she was away, her disciples had made life-and-death enemies with nearly a hundred factions.


    After thorough investigation, Ancestor Xue Mei finally understood what had happened. She immediately sought out Zhong Shan.


    "Ancestor Xue Mei? What brings you here?" Zhong Shan asked, feigning confusion.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s expression, a ck line appeared on Ancestor Xue Mei''s forehead for some unknown reason.


    "Zhong Shan, harming one or two of my disciples might be their own fault, but you killed all of them? You have some nerve!" Ancestor Xue Mei finally exploded in anger.


    A powerful aura burst forth towards Zhong Shan. The surrounding grass and trees bowed under its pressure; the aura was too overwhelming.


    Ancestor Xue Mei''s outburst immediately attracted the attention of the surrounding powerful beings, all eyes turning towards them.


    Another fight?


    Luo Xingchen was about to step in front of Zhong Shan, but Zhong Shan waved his hand to stop him.


    "Ancestor Xue Mei, I respect you as a senior, but please rify your words. I, Zhong Shan, have always acted with integrity and cannot bear such usations!" Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    "Fine, fine! Even now, you still want to argue? Where are my dozens of disciples?" Ancestor Xue Mei was so angry that she was almost incoherent.


    "They are your disciples. It is not my job to look after them! How can you me me if you lost them? Although I don''t think much of any one of them, nearly a hundred of them at once is beyond my capabilities. Why are you looking for me?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Without your deceit, would they have died?"


    "What did I deceive them about?"


    "Did you not give them the fake Demon Summoning Banners?"


    "Is that considered deceit? Even a fool could see that it was you ancestors who were fighting over the Demon Summoning Banner. I didn''t have it at all, but your disciple insisted I give it to him, so I just handed him whatever I had! What else could I do?"


    "...!"


    "Then why did you give them nearly ten times?" As she spoke, Ancestor Xue Mei herself felt speechless. Were her disciples brainless? Even after ten times, they still wanted more?


    "They knew it was fake, yet they still wanted it so badly. I had no choice but to give them one after another. What else could I do?"


    "...!"


    "I don''t want to argue with you anymore. Don''t me me for using my superior strength. I challenge you both to a life-and-death duel!" Ancestor Xue Mei said coldly.


    "Both of us? A True Immortal and a Great Immortal against you, an Ancestral Immortal? Indeed, you are not using your superior strength!" Zhong Shan said sarcastically.


    "Saint King? You go first, I''ll hold off Ancestor Xue Mei!" Luo Xingchen immediately shouted.


    Zhong Shan looked at Luo Xingchen and asked, "How confident are you that you can defeat Ancestor Xue Mei?"


    Confident? Really? Doubtful looks immediately spread among the onlookers.


    How could a True Immortal possibly defeat an Ancestral Immortal? One could manipte the Heavenly Dao, and the other could not��they were onpletely different levels.


    "I, I cannot!" Luo Xingchen shook his head, a bitter expression on his face.


    What could he do? His family was in the underworld of Great Ying, and he had to stand in front of Zhong Shan.


    Shaking his head, Zhong Shan said, "Forget it, I''ll handle this myself!"


    Luo Xingchen widened his eyes, as if he had heard wrong.


    Not only Luo Xingchen, but almost everyone unconsciously rubbed their ears.


    "Senior brother, what did Zhong Shan say? He wants to fight Ancestor Xue Mei himself?"


    "Ridiculous! A Great Immortal daring to challenge an Ancestral Immortal?"


    "Has Zhong Shan gone mad?"


    Doubtful voices came from all directions.


    Luo Xingchen looked at Zhong Shan in disbelief. What did the Saint King mean by this?


    "Ancestor Xue Mei is after me. You don''t need to die for this!" Zhong Shan said.


    In an instant, it felt as though a warm current flowed through Luo Xingchen''s chest, filling him with emotion. "Saint King! I am willing to fight Ancestor Xue Mei alongside you!"


    Shaking his head, Zhong Shan said, "There''s no need. Stand down."


    "Yes!" Luo Xingchen felt deeply moved.


    Luo Xingchen knew that although he was strong, he was definitely not a match for an Ancestral Immortal. They were beings who could manipte the Heavenly Dao, on an entirely different level.


    Facing Ancestor Xue Mei was akin to seeking death. However, was the Saint King doing this to protect him? In an instant, Luo Xingchen''s heart was filled with gratitude, and his sense of belonging to Great Ying deepened.


    Luo Xingchen retreated, but his heart remained on the battlefield.


    Standing at the peak of the mountain, the breeze slightly moving his robes, Zhong Shan looked up at Ancestor Xue Mei.


    "What? Are you alone?" Ancestor Xue Mei sneered.


    "Does it make a difference whether it''s one or two people?" Zhong Shan replied solemnly.


    "Fine, I will see just how confident you are, Zhong Shan!" Ancestor Xue Mei said coldly.


    "Confidence? As I said, just like your disciples before, I was forced into this. Ancestor Xue Mei, if I don''t die today, I will surely make up for today''s humiliation!" Zhong Shan said coldly.


    "Today, you will die. Come, let me see your eye technique, the one that caused Randeng to fall from Ancestral Immortal to Ancient Immortal!" Ancestor Xue Mei said sternly.


    Eye technique! The mention of Zhong Shan''s eye technique made everyone suddenly quiet.


    Back in the Enclosure Trapping Dragon Formation, Zhong Shan''s eye technique had secured his unassable position. Although many factors contributed to his sess, people spoke of Zhong Shan''s eye technique as if it were legendary.


    An eye technique that could bring misfortune to others had never been seen before.


    Today, Ancestor Xue Mei brought up the past, clearly aiming for this eye technique. If she mastered it, wouldn''t she be invincible among those of equal cultivation?


    Ancestor Xue Mei looked at Zhong Shan seriously, and among the surrounding powerful beings, there were even a couple of Ancestral Immortals who were also curious about Zhong Shan''s eye technique.


    Zhong Shan knew that a battle with Ancestor Xue Mei was unavoidable, so he no longer tried to evade and instead focused his mind.


    Eye technique? The Deadly Eye? This secret couldn''t be kept after it was used that day.


    Since it couldn''t be kept secret, let it shine before everyone.


    But how could he, with his current strength, fight an Ancestral Immortal? Even in the past, he wasn''t a match for Randeng. Adding Luo Xingchen wouldn''t make a difference.


    Zhong Shan asked Luo Xingchen to leave mainly because the red lotus at the center of his brows was still sometimes blue and sometimes red. It wasn''t consistently blue, which meant that amidst great misfortune, there was great fortune. Going all out might not be a bad thing!


    "You want to learn my supreme Deadly Eye?" Zhong Shan sneered, his aura slowly rising.


    "Do I need to learn from a Great Immortal?" Ancestor Xue Mei showed a hint of disdain.


    "Hypocrite!" Zhong Shan sneered.


    "Open your eye technique, or do you want me to make the first move?" Ancestor Xue Mei said coldly.


    "As you wish!" Zhong Shan said indifferently.


    As you wish? Was Zhong Shan really going to open his supreme Deadly Eye? But the opponent was an Ancestral Immortal. No matter how strong a Great Immortal''s eye technique was, it couldn''t possibly harm an Ancestral Immortal.


    Zhong Shan no longer held back. He closed his eyes slightly, then closed his left eye while slowly opening his right eye.


    "Supreme Deadly Eye, open!"


    Zhong Shan''s right eye opened, surrounded by a faint blue light. Instantly, the heavens and earth grew solemn. The clouds stopped drifting, the wind ceased to blow, and a trembling from the depths of the soul spread among the countless powerful beings before Zhong Shan.


    It felt as if a sage had descended.


    Was this the supreme Deadly Eye? What a powerful eye technique! Its majesty was almostparable to that of a sage. No wonder Ancestor Xue Mei cared so much and was so tempted.


    At this moment, Ancestor Xue Mei''s eyes suddenly changed. In her pupils, a pink plum blossom appeared.


    One eye had one blossom, two pink plum blossoms spinning in Ancestor Xue Mei''s pupils.


    An eye technique? Another eye technique? Ancestor Xue Mei also had an eye technique?


    "What is that?"


    "Plum Blossom Eye? The Art of Duplication? Ancestor Xue Mei wants to duplicate Zhong Shan''s eye technique?"


    "Plum Blossom Eye?"


    "Ancestor Xue Mei''s eye technique is real! The rumors are true. Ancestor Xue Mei indeed possesses the Plum Blossom Eye, a mysterious eye technique that can duplicate others'' secret arts. It''s all true!"


    "Duplicating eye techniques?"


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 954: Xue Mei = Unlucky?

    <h4>Chapter 954: Xue Mei = Unlucky?</h4>


    Zhong Shan faced Ancestor Xue Mei.


    As soon as the Supreme Deadly Eye opened, the world went silent. The near-sage aura was so oppressive that everyone felt as if they couldn''t breathe. Yet, amidst this oppression, their hearts were filled with excitement.


    What a powerful eye technique! Could this be the infamous eye technique that brings bad luck to others?


    How would Ancestor Xue Mei, an Ancestral Immortal, fare against this eye technique?


    On the opposite peak, under the expectant eyes of the onlookers, Ancestor Xue Mei also activated another eye technique, the Plum Blossom Eye!


    A truly renowned and powerful eye technique!


    "The Art of Duplication?" people eximed in surprise!


    In a hidden valley, Ying, Guiguzi, and Bai Qi had already taken a concealed position.


    "The Art of Duplication? The eighth greatest divine ability in the world?" Guiguzi said calmly.


    "It''s rumored that the Art of Duplication can copy any divine ability ranked ninth or lower, even time-rted divine abilities. Ancestor Xue Mei has really hidden her capabilities well!" Bai Qi remarked.


    "The Art of Duplication? Still far from perfect!" Ying said disdainfully.


    "Far from perfect?"


    "The Plum Blossom Eye is indeed the Art of Duplication, but a truly mature Art of Duplication would have three plum blossoms in each pupil. Ancestor Xue Mei only has one. One blossom is merely a rudimentary form, far from the true Art of Duplication!" Guiguzi shook his head.


    "But Ancestor Xue Mei has at least mastered the rudimentary form!" Bai Qi questioned.


    "A rudimentary form? Some people spend their entire lives stuck in the rudimentary form and never progress! Divine abilities are not so easilyprehended. One blossom versus three blossoms is a world of difference!" Guiguzi said solemnly.


    "Indeed!" Bai Qi nodded.


    "On the contrary, Zhong Shan''s eye technique is unique and unprecedented. I wonder if it can rank in the top thirty!" Guiguzi mused.


    "Zhong Shan''s divine ability can rank in the top thirty?" Bai Qi said in surprise.


    "If it truly brings bad luck to others, then it certainly can!" Ying said lightly.


    "Indeed!"


    In the distance, Zhong Shan stood at the peak of a mountain, his single eye coldly staring at Ancestor Xue Mei.


    Seeing the plum blossoms in Ancestor Xue Mei''s pupils and hearing the discussions among the powerful beings around him, Zhong Shan understood. Duplication? She wanted to duplicate the Supreme Deadly Eye?


    Duplicating the Supreme Deadly Eye was absolutely impossible because she did not have the Red Luan Pink Lotus, nor the lotus pond to house it.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan focused on Ancestor Xue Mei.


    Suddenly, the blue light in Zhong Shan''s eye surged, like a tidal wave, sweeping towards Ancestor Xue Mei.


    As for those watching behind Ancestor Xue Mei, they were just unlucky to be in Zhong Shan''s path.


    The powerful blue light shot out, tightening the entire space, plunging everything into silence. Everyone widened their eyes, watching the uing scene.


    The blue light surged forward, forcefully covering Ancestor Xue Mei.


    Strangely, Ancestor Xue Mei did not use the Heavenly Dao, seemingly very confident in her Plum Blossom Eye.


    Seeing Zhong Shan unleash his eye technique, a cold smile appeared on Ancestor Xue Mei''s lips. The plum blossoms in her eyes rotated, and the space before her suddenly shimmered, like rippling water, creating waves. Before her, a massive, bizarrely extended ne emerged, intercepting the oing blue light.


    The pair of plum blossom eyes suddenly generated a powerful pulling force, causing the endless blue light to be eerily absorbed, forming two torrents that shot into Ancestor Xue Mei''s pupils.


    Absorption!


    Ancestor Xue Mei was absorbing it?


    The scene looked as if Zhong Shan''s emitted blue light was being reversed, all absorbed into Ancestor Xue Mei''s eyes.


    The surrounding experts were wide-eyed.


    "Ancestor Xue Mei is absorbing the blue light, using the Plum Blossom Eye to counter Zhong Shan''s eye technique!"


    "What a formidable Plum Blossom Eye!"


    "The Art of Duplication is terrifying. After this, won''t Zhong Shan''s techniques be at Ancestor Xue Mei''s disposal?"


    "The Plum Blossom Eye, the Art of Duplication?"


    Cries of astonishment echoed from all directions, marveling at Ancestor Xue Mei''s eye technique. Everyone was filled with awe.


    Not only were the surrounding experts wide-eyed, but so was Zhong Shan!


    Zhong Shan''s right eye was open, his mouth slightly agape as he looked at Ancestor Xue Mei.


    What was she doing? Absorbing all the deadly light, misfortune, and bad luck? What audacity!


    It must be known that when Randeng became an Ancestral Immortal, he was only covered by a small portion of the myriad blue lights. Yet, Ancestor Xue Mei was absorbing all of it?


    "Complete absorption!" Cries of astonishment rang out.


    People were still in shock over Ancestor Xue Mei''s feat when suddenly, almost everyone fell silent.


    Ancestor Xue Mei''s expression changed, and with a roar, a massive aura blew outwards in all directions.


    The powerful aura made everyone feel a chill, as if covered by a nket of snow.


    "Has Ancestor Xue Mei merged with the Heavenly Dao?"


    "What''s happening to Ancestor Xue Mei? Why merge with the Heavenly Dao now? Is analyzing Zhong Shan''s eye technique that difficult?"


    "Something''s wrong, something''s wrong, something happened!"


    As people discussed, they all stared at Ancestor Xue Mei. Suddenly, a look of pain appeared on her face, and the two plum blossoms in her eyes trembled violently.


    "Snap!"


    With two faint sounds, sharp-eyed observers began to shout.


    "The plum blossoms shattered!"


    "The plum blossoms in Ancestor Xue Mei''s eyes have shattered!"


    "They dispersed, both plum blossoms have dispersed!"


    Not only did the plum blossoms in her pupils shatter, but blood tears also bizarrely flowed from her once powerful eyes.


    "Zhong Shan, I''m going to kill you~~~~~~~~!"


    Ancestor Xue Mei let out a heart-wrenching cry.


    With a great roar, people vaguely saw a white pir connecting heaven and earth. Ancestor Xue Mei, merged with the Heavenly Dao, had gone berserk!


    The roar pierced the clouds, as if the entire Nuwa realm was enveloped in her heart-wrenching cry.


    Ancestor Xue Mei had gone mad!


    The surroundings were no different. The terrifying aura st toppled many nearby peaks. Waves of space rippled outwards with Ancestor Xue Mei''s roar.


    Hatred, endless hatred, surged through Ancestor Xue Mei as she erupted in fury!


    As the surrounding experts retreated, they couldn''t help but feel strange. There was only one thought in their minds: ''The Plum Blossom Eye has been broken.''


    The Plum Blossom Eye broken? It had to be. If it weren''t, Ancestor Xue Mei wouldn''t be wailing so heartbreakingly, so desperately.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan''s eye technique was marked with terror. First, it had pulled Randeng down from Ancestral Immortal, and now it had shattered the Plum Blossom Eye.


    "Is Zhong Shan''s eye technique really that powerful?" Bai Qi eximed in surprise.


    Beside him, Guiguzi nodded and said, "It''s powerful, but Ancestor Xue Mei brought this upon herself!"


    "Huh?"


    "If Ancestor Xue Mei had initially merged with the Heavenly Dao and used it as a shield, Zhong Shan''s blue light wouldn''t have been able to reach her. The blue light can''t prate the Heavenly Dao. But, in her greed to duplicate Zhong Shan''s eye technique, she didn''t use the Heavenly Dao from the start!" Guiguzi exined.


    "Indeed, she truly deserves the name ''Unlucky Ancestor Xue Mei''��her misfortune is overwhelming!" Bai Qi said, a bead of sweat forming on his forehead.


    In the distance, Zhong Shan saw Ancestor Xue Mei''s scream and knew she had met her misfortune!


    Taking advantage of Ancestor Xue Mei''s scream, Zhong Shan also spoke up.


    "Citizens of Great Ying, heed mymand! I am Zhong Shan. All citizens except the soldiers fighting the enemy, raise your right hands and lend me your boundless strength!" Zhong Shan''s voice was drowned in Ancestor Xue Mei''s roar.


    However, it resonated through another realm.


    In the mortal realm, in the Great Ying Imperial Court, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, in the Hall of Longevity, on the imperial court:


    "Report to Prince Zichen, the five southern cities have fallen. The imperial army''s Great Immortals have in our generals, leaving our troops leaderless. Now, countless soldiers are defending the Wushuang Fortress, urgently requesting high-rankingmanders!" an official urgently reported.


    At that moment, another guard rushed into the Hall of Longevity!


    "Report to Prince Zichen, the Taiji Sacred Court has sent an envoy to demand our surrender. He is waiting outside the hall!" the guard reported.


    "Get rid of him. Execute the envoy at the Southern Heavenly Gate and proim to the world that Great Ying will endure forever!" Prince Zichen, Shui Wuhen,manded.


    "Yes!" The guard retreated.


    The court erupted in discussion, filled with reports of defeat and surrounded by enemies. Every day brought news of further losses.


    Shui Wuhen looked at Lin Xiao and Shui Jing.


    "General, Chancellor, what do you think?" Shui Wuhen asked anxiously.


    "The enemy''s momentum is overwhelming. There are too many enemy troops, and our high-rankingmanders are being assassinated by powerful enemies. The situation is dire," Lin Xiao said bitterly.


    Shui Jing shook his feather fan and sighed, "Various courts are sending experts to kill our high-rankingmanders, continuously eating away at our territory. It''s tough. There are too many enemies."


    The other officials in the court were equally disheartened, constantly discussing and filled with worry.


    Shui Wuhen''s hair was mostly white at this point, an impossible urrence for a cultivator, but prolonged anxiety had taken its toll, revealing his haggard state.


    "The Saint King entrusted Great Ying to me. I must hold on to the end for him!" Shui Wuhen murmured.


    At that moment, outside the Hall of Longevity, the sky''s boundless fate and merit suddenly roared as if boiling water.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~!"


    "Roar~~~~~~~~!"


    The clouds of fate echoed with two earth-shaking dragon roars, as if filled with immense joy.


    In the midst of everyone''s astonishment, a familiar voice rang in their ears.


    "Citizens of Great Ying, heed mymand! I am Zhong Shan. All citizens except the soldiers fighting the enemy, raise your right hands and lend me your boundless strength!"


    The powerful and resonant voice echoed in everyone''s ears and hearts.


    Not just in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, but across the entire Great Ying, throughout the formernd of Shenzhou, wherever Great Ying''s citizens were, they suddenly heard Zhong Shan''s voice.


    "The Saint King''s voice!" Shui Wuhen was the first to react.


    "Did you hear that? It''s the Saint King''s voice! The Saint King, it''s the Saint King!" Shui Wuhen shouted to the court officials, tears of excitement welling up in his eyes.


    "The Saint King!"


    "Long live the Saint King!"


    "May the Saint King enjoy eternal happiness and longevity equal to heaven!"


    People shouted various titles in excitement.


    In an instant, everyone in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, except the guards, suddenly knelt down.


    Throughout Great Ying, in every city, except for the soldiers defending against enemies, nearly everyone knelt down in excitement.


    The Saint King? The Saint King''s voice, the Saint King has returned?


    Countless people bowed, countless cheers spread across thend.


    "Raise your right hand!"


    "Raise your right hand!"


    "Raise your right hand~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    In the entire Great Ying, there were calls to raise the right hand!


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 955: Zhong Shan vs. Ancestor Xue Mei

    <h4>Chapter 955: Zhong Shan vs. Ancestor Xue Mei</h4>


    In the mortal realm, the entire popce of the Great Ying Imperial Court erupted with excitement!


    The Saint King''s voice, Zhong Shan''s voice, echoed through every city, filling the air with endless cheers.


    The soldiers on the front lines, upon hearing Zhong Shan''s voice, felt their blood boil. In an instant, their fighting spirit surged by more than thirty percent, their morale soaring.


    This was the foundation! Zhong Shan was the foundation of Great Ying. With strengthened morale, they could exert extraordinary power.


    All across the battlefield, the previously retreating Great Ying soldiers fought back with renewed vigor, astonishing the enemy forces and causing them to retreat. The enemy generals were bewildered by the sudden change.


    Except for the soldiers fighting the enemy, almost all the citizens of Great Ying raised their right hands. That familiar feeling returned.


    After a moment of exhaustion, an immense amount of energy converged towards the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, then transferred into Zhong Shan''s body!


    A continuous, terrifying surge of energy from the imperial court''s popce!


    Zhong Shan faced off against Ancestor Xue Mei!


    At this moment, Ancestor Xue Mei''s eyes were streaming with blood tears! Merged with the Heavenly Dao, she let out a mournful roar to the sky.


    "Zhong Shan, I''m going to kill you~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Ancestor Xue Mei screamed, filled with frustration.


    In that moment, Ancestor Xue Mei understood what had happened. She had absorbed all the bad luck. Initially, she had nned to use the Plum Blossom Eye to counter Zhong Shan''s divine ability, but before she could, her Plum Blossom Eye waspletely destroyed.


    The Plum Blossom Eye was one of her strongest cards, never shown to anyone. Had she not been extremely curious about Zhong Shan''s eye technique, she would never have used it.


    And yet, it shattered as soon as it was used!


    Losing her disciples did notpare to the pain of losing the Plum Blossom Eye.


    Ancestor Xue Mei was truly enraged. Only by torturing Zhong Shan to death could she relieve her hatred!


    This grudge had be enormous!


    With a wave of her hand, the world turned white, covered in heavy snow. The vast sky and earth were instantly shrouded in snow and clouds. The Heavenly Dao that Ancestor Xue Mei had merged with was rted to snow!


    The powerful force of the Heavenly Dao caused the surrounding vegetation to shatter from the cold, and even some mountains cracked and were covered in snow.


    Weaker cultivators felt a chilling cold.


    At the same time, a powerful white pir of light descended from the sky.


    Wherever the white pir passed, all surrounding gases froze, forming snow, ice, and various white crystals. As the white pir descended, it resembled a massive avnche, roaring towards Zhong Shan.


    It was so vast that it chilled the hearts of many who witnessed it.


    "Saint King~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Luo Xingchen eximed in rm.


    But it was toote. The powerful avnche had already sealed off that area, and the white pir was right in front of Zhong Shan.


    Countless experts felt their scalps tingle. The power of the Heavenly Dao was overwhelming.


    It was certain death; an enraged Ancestor Xue Mei was not holding back, delivering a fatal blow to Zhong Shan from the start.


    "He''s done for!"


    "He''s definitely done for. If Zhong Shan survives this Heavenly Dao attack, I''ll gouge out my eyes!"


    All around, people felt pity for Zhong Shan.


    But to everyone''s astonishment, Zhong Shan assumed a stance and threw a punch towards the sky!


    The fist met the descending white pir of light. Instead of being overwhelmed, Zhong Shan''s punch seemed to merge with the energy gathered from all of Great Ying. The force of his punch,bined with the energy of millions of citizens, created an explosive impact that resonated through the battlefield.


    For a moment, time seemed to stand still. The punch shattered the white pir of light, sending shockwaves rippling through the air and dispersing the surrounding avnche. The sheer power of the punch, fueled by the collective strength of Great Ying, overwhelmed Ancestor Xue Mei''s Heavenly Dao force.


    Ancestor Xue Mei staggered back, disbelief and horror etched on her face as her attack was neutralized. The crowd, initially filled with despair, now erupted in cheers and amazement at Zhong Shan''s incredible feat.


    The battle between Zhong Shan and Ancestor Xue Mei had taken a dramatic turn, showcasing the indomitable spirit and unity of Great Ying under Zhong Shan''s leadership.


    Zhong Shan''s punch met the white pir of light, confronting the force of the Heavenly Dao.


    "Is this for real? What am I seeing?"


    "Zhong Shan is fighting back?"


    People watched in astonishment, seeing a Great Immortal face the power of the Heavenly Dao. It was as if a praying mantis was trying to block the foot of an elephant with its tiny arms.


    Could the mantis''s arms stop the elephant''s foot? Clearly not.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a deafening roar, the avnche around Zhong Shan exploded outward in all directions. The terrifying impact sent powerful ripples through the void.


    Endless snow shot out in all directions, and at the center of the blizzard, snow filled the air and ground, making it impossible to see inside. But people could see Ancestor Xue Mei.


    Ancestor Xue Mei''s eyes streamed with blood tears, her face extremely grim. There was even a look of disbelief.


    "Did Zhong Shan actually block the power of the Heavenly Dao? What a joke!"


    "The blizzard covers everything; we can''t see clearly!"


    "I don''t believe it!"


    People were torn. Could a Great Immortal really block the power of the Heavenly Dao? Was that possible?


    The truth emerged as the snow settled, revealing Zhong Shan at the center��a towering figure, ten thousand zhang tall.


    "Is he a monster?"


    "That big?"


    "Zhong Shan can transform?"


    Cries of astonishment spread.


    "No, it''s the power of the imperial domain. Zhong Shan is borrowing the power of Great Ying''s domain?" someone suddenly eximed.


    "The power of Great Ying''s domain? Indeed, the lord of an imperial court can challenge an Ancestral Immortal, but only within their own domain. But this isn''t the territory of Great Ying!"


    "Zhong Shan has mastered the ability to borrow power from afar? Few imperial courts in this world can do that!"


    Zhong Shan''s muscr, gigantic form was awe-inspiring, standing ten thousand zhang tall. It was an incredibly shocking sight.


    Zhong Shan! Ancestor Xue Mei?


    This battle was far from over!


    "Unfortunately, Zhong Shan still can''t defeat Ancestor Xue Mei," Guiguzi shook his head.


    "Why?" Bai Qi asked in confusion.


    "Great Ying''s territory is still rtively small. Borrowing the power of Great Ying''s domain only provides so much. If Ancestor Xue Mei were a newly ascended Ancestral Immortal, Zhong Shan might have a chance. But Ancestor Xue Mei is already in a semi-fused state with the Heavenly Dao!" Guiguzi exined.


    "Semi-fused with the Heavenly Dao?"


    "Yes, like you see now. Ancestor Xue Mei isn''t fully merged with the Heavenly Dao, but in a semi-fused state, which is tens of times stronger than Randeng in the past. Zhong Shan is in a tough spot," Guiguzi evaluated.


    "Let''s wait. There might still be a sudden change," Ying said calmly.


    "Yes."


    In the arena, Zhong Shan''s punch had destroyed Ancestor Xue Mei''s Heavenly Dao force, but the mountain beneath him was also shattered by his immense power.


    Zhong Shan, without hesitation, charged towards the Heavenly Dao where Ancestor Xue Mei stood. Swinging his terrifyinglyrge fist, he aimed a powerful blow at Ancestor Xue Mei.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a deafening roar, the surrounding snow was sted away, sending shockwaves through the air and creating powerful spatial ripples.


    As Zhong Shan''s punchnded, the white Heavenly Dao remained unmoved, but Ancestor Xue Mei''s body trembled inside.


    Ancestor Xue Mei''s heart skipped a beat. Zhong Shan intended to force her out of the Heavenly Dao? Quickly, she waved her hands, sending beams of white light, like the ones before, crashing down towards Zhong Shan.


    The power of the Heavenly Dao surged towards Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s fists, like the finest divine weapons, repeatedly struck upwards, shing forcefully with Ancestor Xue Mei''s attacks.


    The continuous booming sounds produced powerful spatial ripples around Zhong Shan, making it difficult to see inside.


    "He''s a monster!"


    "Zhong Shan is too fierce!"


    "A madman! This giant is too domineering!"


    Those below the level of Great Immortal couldn''t help but exim in shock. Zhong Shan''s actions were not only a disy of power but also a visual spectacle that left asting impact.


    Some even began to wonder if they should seek high positions under Zhong Shan if he reestablished control over Great Ying.


    Inside the white Heavenly Dao, Ancestor Xue Mei''s body trembled continuously, a sh of anger in her eyes. She suddenly produced a massive turtle shell.


    The turtle shell was of a purple jade color, emitting a faint glow, and it was divided into nine neatly arranged sections.


    "Nine Pces Pushing the Sky Turtle Shell?" someone in the distance eximed.


    "What is that?"


    "Ancestor Xue Mei''s treasure, used for calctions and also for defense. It''s rumored she once used it to kill a newly ascended Ancestral Immortal!" the person exined.


    Zhong Shan, seeing the turtle shell, became cautious.


    Although it seemed he was overpowering Ancestor Xue Mei, Zhong Shan knew he couldn''t truly harm her. Despite his immense strength, he was still an ant before the mighty Heavenly Dao. His attacks barely affected Ancestor Xue Mei; her true lethal move had yet toe.


    Seeing the Nine Pces Pushing the Sky Turtle Shell, Zhong Shan knew Ancestor Xue Mei was about to strike hard.


    Staring intently at Zhong Shan, Ancestor Xue Mei tossed the turtle shell into the sky. Instantly, the enormous turtle shell merged into the massive Heavenly Dao.


    The turtle shell vanished, but in its ce appeared an evenrger turtle shell.


    It was now part of the Heavenly Dao. A massive white turtle shell emerged from the Heavenly Dao, amplifying the power of the Nine Pces Pushing the Sky Turtle Shell by billions of times, enveloping Zhong Shan''s colossal form.


    In an instant, Zhong Shan disappeared from view, reced by the massive Heavenly Dao and the white turtle shell. The giant turtle shell was a million zhang high, integrated with the Heavenly Dao.


    "It''s over. Zhong Shan is imprisoned by Ancestor Xue Mei''s ''Heavenly Dao Cage''. He''s doomed!"


    "A person merged with the Heavenly Dao is truly invincible!"


    "If Zhong Shan doesn''t die from this, I''ll gouge out my eyes!"


    "Uh, didn''t you say that earlier? And you still haven''t done it?"


    The situation was changing too rapidly, shocking everyone''s senses.


    "The Nine Pces Pushing the Sky Turtle Shell is just a catalyst, used to trigger the Heavenly Dao Cage! Ancestor Xue Mei is no ordinary opponent. Even in a semi-fused state with the Heavenly Dao, she can devise ways to perform acts ofplete fusion. Truly, she deserves her reputation as one of the old Ancestral Immortals," Guiguzimented.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 956: The First Form of Creation

    <h4>Chapter 956: The First Form of Creation</h4>


    Zhong Shan was trapped in the cage of Heaven''s Dao. The strong onlookers around shook their heads in pity.


    "Trapped in Heaven''s Dao Cage, there''s no hope! How could a Grand Immortal possibly escape from the Heaven''s Dao Cage?"


    "Even ancient immortals facing the Heaven''s Dao Cage are just waiting for death!"


    "Is Heaven''s Dao Cage truly unbreakable?"


    "At least Zhong Shan can''t break it. Heaven''s Dao Cage is the power of Heaven''s Dao. Unless one also masters Heaven''s Dao, there''s no chance of survival. But does Zhong Shan master Heaven''s Dao?"


    "There''s no hope!"


    "Zhong Shan is doomed!"


    People kept criticizing, none believing in Zhong Shan. Only Luo Xingchen stood silently in a corner. Although anxious, his eyes still held a firm belief.


    Because Luo Xingchen had seen Zhong Shan''s power, the Samsara Passage, the Path of Beasts!


    The Holy King still had cards up his sleeve! Unfortunately, what Luo Xingchen didn''t know was that only Zhong Shan''s shadow body could open the Samsara Passage. The Zhong Shan in front of him was his true form.


    Old Ancestor Xuemei, manipting the white Heaven''s Dao, looked at the powerful Heaven''s Dao Cage with hatred in her eyes. Inside was Zhong Shan, the one who had killed all her disciples and destroyed the Plum Blossom Eye!


    "Ice Hell!" Old Ancestor Xuemei said hatefully.


    At this moment, within the white shell, the ten-thousand-zhang tall Zhong Shan strangely arrived in a new space.


    An endless space, no matter how he moved, it seemed boundless and infinite. Zhong Shan had no idea how to exert his power.


    "Ice Hell!"


    Suddenly, Old Ancestor Xuemei''s voice echoed between heaven and earth.


    As the voice came out, it suddenly started snowing. The ground rapidly froze, and the terrifying cold instantly raged throughout the entire space.


    Zhong Shan wasn''t afraid of the cold but looked around solemnly. At this moment, far in the distance, a snowman slowly emerged from the ground, growingrger andrger until it reached ten thousand zhang in height.


    The snowman slowly took shape, eventually looking exactly like Zhong Shan.


    Exactly the same?


    The snowman charged at Zhong Shan, and Zhong Shan punched back.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a loud sound, the powerful impact caused Zhong Shan to retreat a dozen steps, and the snowman also stepped back a dozen steps before stopping.


    The same strength?


    Zhong Shan grew more serious as the snowman charged again!


    "Boom!" "Boom!" ......


    A series of blows followed, neither gaining the upper hand. No, it seemed the snowman knew all of Zhong Shan''s moves.


    Once again, Zhong Shan and the snowman collided.


    This time, Zhong Shan was different from before. When their fists met, he suddenly used the Heavenly Demon Body Refining technique. With a loud noise, the snowman crumbled into pieces.


    He won!


    Zhong Shan let out a sigh of relief!


    At the same time, the ground all around was already covered with snow. Suddenly, heaps of snow began to rise, and one snowman after another slowly took shape.


    More and more snowmen appeared, and in the blink of an eye, there were already hundreds of them, each towering ten thousand zhang high and all resembling Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan!"


    A thunderous voice echoed through the void!


    Zhong Shan looked up and suddenly saw the figure of Old Ancestor Xuemei, appearing both real and illusory.


    "You cannot escape. As strong as you are, these snowmen are just as strong. You increased your explosive power just now, and when they reincarnate, they too will have explosive power. They are endless. Prepare to be tortured to death by your own strength!" Old Ancestor Xuemei said coldly.


    "With just these worthless things?" Zhong Shan coldly nced at Old Ancestor Xuemei.


    "This is the Heaven''s Dao Cage. Only a Patriarch Immortal manipting another force of Heaven''s Dao can break it. As for you, no matter how you leverage the power of Great Zheng''s world, you can never break the Heaven''s Dao Cage. This is the difference between a Patriarch Immortal and a non-Patriarch Immortal. I won''t let you die easily; I want to watch you be slowly tortured to death!" Old Ancestor Xuemei''s voice was filled with hatred.


    In the distance, the snowmen approached slowly. Zhong Shan looked at Old Ancestor Xuemei, a murderous intent shing in his eyes. Gradually, he closed his eyes slightly.


    Heavenly Demon Body Refining, the ninthyer!


    Ten times the strength! Zhong Shan directly pushed the Heavenly Demon Body Refining to the ninthyer. With ten times the strength, his body suddenly swelled to twice its size, and arge amount of golden energy shed around him. The energy swirled, forming a powerful airflow that blew away the surrounding snow.


    Strength, immense strength!


    "Emperors are indeed the best at hiding their true strength. Unfortunately, even so, you cannot surpass the threshold of Heaven''s Dao. Prepare to die!" Old Ancestor Xuemei''s eyes shed with madness.


    "Fate, merit,e~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Zhong Shan suddenly shouted loudly.


    Above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, endless merit and fate churned again.


    The sky was filled with divine images scattering. Even Zhong Shan''s divine image bizarrely scattered, suddenly transforming into two neen-wed golden dragons of fate.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The bodies of the two golden dragons suddenly absorbed the countless merits and fate like whales sucking in water, rapidly drawing them into their bodies. The merit and fate diminished rapidly.


    At the entrance of the Hall of Longevity, Shui Wuhen, leading the officials, looked up at the sky.


    "What''s happening? What''s happening to the sea of fate?" Shui Wuhen asked Shui Jing with a frown.


    "I don''t know, it''s unprecedented." Shui Jing shook his head, showing his confusion.


    Not long after, the endless merit and fate werepletely absorbed by the two neen-wed golden dragons.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Two dragon roars echoed, resounding throughout the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, and even all the citizens of Great Zheng suddenly heard the two dragon roars.


    In front of Shui Wuhen and the others, after the two dragon roars, the two golden dragons suddenly collided with each other. After a loud crash, the two golden dragons vanished together.


    Gone. Above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the merit and fate werepletely gone!


    The entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court fell into a dead silence. Merit disappeared, fate disappeared!


    Everything was gone. What does this mean?


    A terrifying thought suddenly shed in people''s minds. They constantly forced themselves not to continue thinking, but this thought seemed to take root, continuously growing in their hearts.


    Did the Holy King pass away? This terrifying thought instantly threw everyone in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court into panic. Has the Holy King passed away? Why did this happen? Our Great Zheng''s boundless fate, where is it? The two golden dragons of fate disappeared above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court but appeared in front of Zhong Shan. The two golden dragons of fate suddenly drilled into Zhong Shan''s body. True Dragon Protection, Fate Empowerment. The mes around Zhong Shan surged again, radiating dazzling light in all directions, resembling golden mes that washed over the surroundings. The umtion of powerful energy. The terrifying force blew the surrounding snow even further away, and some of the approaching snowmen were suppressed by this aura, unable to move forward! Zhong Shan''s power continued to rise! Heavenly Demon Body Refining, the ninthyer! True Dragon Protection! The Power of Great Zheng! It could be said that Zhong Shan had umted almost all his strength. With a stomp, the icy ground cracked open with a fissure that stretched a thousand miles. In the high sky, Old Ancestor Xuemei''s face grew serious. Zhong Shan''s power once again exceeded her expectations. The ultimate power of a Grand Immortal? Too strong! However, Old Ancestor Xuemei remained confident in the Heaven''s Dao Cage, believing it to be unbreakable. No matter how strong the power, it couldn''t break it. "The Heaven''s Dao Cage is unbreakable? Old Ancestor Xuemei, take my strike and see. Today, I will shatter your myth!" Zhong Shan said coldly. Without waiting for a response, Zhong Shan positioned his palms behind his head, his body slightly bending backward. A bowstring-like tension appeared, and the aura around Zhong Shan surged to its peak. "Roar~~~~!" A dragon roar suddenly erupted from Zhong Shan''s body, the True Dragon within him roaring in anger. His palms formed the shape of an axe de, his body the axe handle. Zhong Shan leaped up, shing his palms through the air towards Old Ancestor Xuemei''s illusory figure. "The First Form of Creation~~~~~~~~!" "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" With a dragon''s roar, Zhong Shan''s palms shed out a monstrous axe de! An ancient, immense axe de adorned with countless runes, making it look even more primitive and grand. Before the axe even reached, a primal aura overwhelmed the surroundings. The First Form of Creation! In an instant, the entire frozen world began to tremble. Old Ancestor Xuemei initially didn''t pay much attention, but when the Heaven''s Dao Cage started to quake, her expression turned to shock. How could this be? "This is the power of Heaven''s Dao?" Old Ancestor Xuemei suddenly screamed in disbelief. No matter how strong her mind was, this scene terrified her. A Grand Immortal harnessing the power of Heaven''s Dao? How could this be possible? It''s impossible! But it was toote. The monstrous axe, upon leaving Zhong Shan''s palms, grewrger, bing a million zhang, ten million zhang, evenrger, shing toward Old Ancestor Xuemei with unstoppable force. Too grand. With one axe, the entire Heaven''s Dao Cage shattered, transforming into a massive phantom charging toward Old Ancestor Xuemei. There was no escape, a full-force strike! Meanwhile, outside. "Why is the Heaven''s Dao Cage still maintained?" "Old Ancestor Xuemei must be torturing Zhong Shan, not wanting him to die so quickly!" "It''s useless. Without the power of Heaven''s Dao, there''s no way out!" People discussed animatedly, some even turning to leave. After all, there was no suspense left; Zhong Shan was bound to die. "Look, what''s that?" A sudden exmation! "Wow~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" An uproar erupted. Before Old Ancestor Xuemei''s Heaven''s Dao pir, another Heaven''s Dao suddenly appeared, also white, but silver-white, emitting dazzling metallic silver light. The silver pir connected to the previous white Heaven''s Dao Cage, as if infusing a powerful force into it. "Another Heaven''s Dao! Another Heaven''s Dao!" Someone eximed. The external world instantly boiled over.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 957: One Axe Shakes the Heavens and Earth

    <h4>Chapter 957: One Axe Shakes the Heavens and Earth</h4>


    "Another Heaven''s Dao! Another Heaven''s Dao!" someone eximed. The external world instantly boiled over with excitement.


    In the distance, a silver Heaven''s Dao suddenly manifested before Old Ancestor Xuemei. Where did this silver Heaven''s Daoe from? There was no need to guess��Zhong Shan. It came from Zhong Shan!


    But Zhong Shan is a Grand Immortal! Even with the power of Great Zheng''s world, he''s still just a Grand Immortal. A Grand Immortal could never grasp Heaven''s Dao!


    Yet what was before their eyes contradicted everything. It was real!


    People fell silent, their eyes wide open, staring intently.


    Before them were two towering Heaven''s Dao pirs, connected by a gigantic turtle-shell-like Heaven''s Dao Cage. The two Heaven''s Dao pirs stood unmovable, but the Heaven''s Dao Cage began to tremble.


    "It''s really the power of Heaven''s Dao! Zhong Shan broke through!"


    "How extraordinary is Zhong Shan!"


    As people marveled, suddenly, two beams of sharp light emerged from the white shell, one above and one below. The beams pierced through the shell with a thunderous crack. The silver beams were surrounded by countless runes.


    "It''s an axe, a silver axe!"


    "The Heaven-Splitting Axe? How could it be? The Heaven-Splitting Axe!"


    "The most powerful artifact of the Small Thousand World, the Heaven-Splitting Axe!"


    People immediately recognized the Heaven-Splitting Axe, their shock boundless. How could the Heaven-Splitting Axe appear in the Great Thousand World? Wasn''t it taken by Heaven?


    Did Zhong Shan leave behind the Heaven-Splitting Axe?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a colossal sound, the gigantic axe shattered the enormous shell, breaking the Heaven''s Dao Cage.


    The formidable Heaven-Splitting Strike roared toward Old Ancestor Xuemei.


    The Heaven-Splitting Strike, temporarily only one move, but it was Zhong Shan''s most powerful strike. He had used it once in the Small Thousand World, during his battle against Kong Xuan.


    Kong Xuan, a peerless fierce figure with an eighteen-armed golden body. Yet Zhong Shan, still a mortal at that time, used the Heaven-Splitting Strike to cleave half of the Shenzhou Continent!


    What a mighty strike that was!


    Now, Zhong Shan had reached the realm of a Grand Immortal. His Heavenly Demon Body Refining technique had reached the ninthyer, and his empire had evolved into a Holy Court.


    The power of one strike, the Heaven-Splitting Strike, was evidently stronger.


    The enormous axe shattered the Heaven''s Dao Cage. People vaguely saw Zhong Shan''s massive figure. With one strike, the axe fiercely shed toward the white Heaven''s Dao and Old Ancestor Xuemei.


    The strike seemed to carry the might of the silver Heaven''s Dao behind Zhong Shan, crashing forward with unstoppable force.


    This terrifying strike made almost everyone''s hearts tremble with fear. It was so grand that in an instant, everyone felt like a pebble at the foot of a heavenly mountain. How insignificant they were.


    Seeing the axe strike, Old Ancestor Xuemei knew things were dire. It seemed there was no escape. Without hesitation, she summoned another treasure, a white longsword. The sword, imbued with the power of Heaven''s Dao, shed fiercely with Zhong Shan''s axe.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The powerful collision of two Heaven''s Dao forces.


    With a colossal noise, the entire Nuwa World suddenly shook.


    Just like the day when Ying and Zhuangzi shed, the domineering sound echoed throughout the Nuwa World.


    The Heaven-Splitting Axe versus the Xuemei Sword!


    Heaven and earth trembled, and at the center of the collision, a monstrous tidal wave of space surged outwards, sweeping in all directions. Those nearby retreated frantically; the collision of Heaven''s Dao forces was something they could not withstand. Those who moved too slowly were crushed into powder on the spot.


    Zhong Shan''s Heaven-Splitting Strike! At this moment, in the eyes of many, that axe was not just shocking but terrifying.


    One strike shook the heavens and earth!


    Some powerful beings even saw a massive ck hole forming at the center, shattering the void.


    Such immense power!


    In a distant valley, Ying, Guiguzi, and Bai Qi were quietly observing.


    "Heaven-Splitting Strike, what a powerful Heaven-Splitting Strike. I''ve always underestimated Zhong Shan''s strength. Who would''ve thought, who would''ve thought Zhong Shan was this strong!" Bai Qi said solemnly.


    Bai Qi had always respected Zhong Shan because of Ying''s attitude. Ying respected Zhong Shan, so Bai Qi did as well. However, in Bai Qi''s heart, while he admired Zhong Shan''s other qualities, he always thought Zhong Shan''s strength wascking. But today, with the Heaven-Splitting Strike, Bai Qi put away all his disdain. This axe was too domineering, a strike he himself couldn''t execute!


    "Heaven-Splitting Strike. Holy King, don''t you think the way Zhong Shan swung that axe resembles that legend?" Guiguzi said gravely.


    "Zhong Shanprehended the true essence of the Heaven-Splitting Axe. The power he wielded is indeed reminiscent of that legendary figure!" Ying nodded.


    "Sir, who does Zhong Shan''s Heaven-Splitting Strike resemble?" Bai Qi asked in confusion.


    "Remember that ce the Holy King once took us to in a dream? Where Hongjun, Taishang, Yuanshi, Tongtian, Nuwa, Jieyin, Zhunti, and even Fuxi emerged from. There was a legend of the Heaven-Splitting Axe there!" Guiguzi said calmly.


    "Pangu''s axe?" Bai Qi immediately thought of it.


    "Yes, precisely Pangu''s axe. Thousands of years have passed, Hongjun and others have died, and few remember Pangu''s axe now, but it doesn''t erase the legend of Pangu''s axe!" Guiguzi said solemnly.


    "Just as you said, sir!" Bai Qi nodded with admiration.


    In the distance, the powerful shockwave forced everyone to flee desperately.


    Among them, Luo Xingchen was the most stunned. He knew the Holy King was strong, but this was too exaggerated! Was the Holy King really just at the Grand Immortal stage?


    The moment the Xuemei Sword collided with the Heaven-Splitting Axe, Old Ancestor Xuemei realized the immense power of the Heaven-Splitting Strike. It drew on the power of Heaven''s Dao, directly integrating into her own Heaven''s Dao.


    Old Ancestor Xuemei''s eyes were bloodshot as she roared, "Die~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Old Ancestor Xuemei, after all, was a seasoned Patriarch Immortal with countless techniques and boundless power. The Heaven-Splitting Strike, such a powerful move, was actually blocked.


    But Old Ancestor Xuemei felt no joy. The Xuemei Sword, under the Heaven-Splitting Axe, was shattered.


    With a loud roar, Old Ancestor Xuemei exerted all her strength. This was the moment the massive ck hole formed in the eyes of others!


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a colossal noise, the ck hole appeared. The Heaven-Splitting Strike had torn through the space of the Great Thousand World.


    In the Small Thousand World, when Zhong Shan cleaved Kong Xuan''s eighteen-armed golden body, he copsed and fell unconscious. Now, Zhong Shan was extremely exhausted, copsing into the ck hole.


    As Zhong Shan fell into the ck hole, he disappeared instantly. The terrifying spatial tremors caused the entire Nuwa Realm to shake violently!


    When the shaking stopped, people saw the scene of Zhong Shan being swallowed by the ck hole. The ck hole slowly sealed itself, and the surrounding space ceased its turbulence.


    Almost everyone stared fixedly in that direction. The two Heaven''s Daos vanished. The surrounding area was reduced to a desert, with only Old Ancestor Xuemei remaining.


    Zhong Shan disappeared. Was he dead?


    In front of Old Ancestor Xuemeiy a gigantic turtle shell, the Nine Pces Heaven-Pushing Turtle Shell Diagram, split in two, with spider web-like cracks all over. The Snow Plum Sword, which she had spent her entire life refining, was crushed, leaving only the hilt. Old Ancestor Xuemei''s left arm was severed, with blood staining half her body. She clutched her left arm with her right hand, sweat covering her face.


    Old Ancestor Xuemei had suffered a massive loss!


    She had thought Zhong Shan would be easy to deal with, but in the end, they both were gravely injured. Though she managed to eliminate Zhong Shan, the cost was too high.


    Her Plum Blossom Eye was destroyed! The Nine Pces Heaven-Pushing Turtle Shell Diagram was ruined! The Snow Plum Sword was shattered! Her left arm, essential for most of her divination techniques, was severed!


    Old Ancestor Xuemei realized this was her greatest loss in history!


    The surroundings fell silent. People looked at Old Ancestor Xuemei without saying a word for a long time.


    "Is Zhong Shan dead?"


    "Yes, no Grand Immortal can survive being crushed by a ck hole!"


    "You''ve said many times before that Zhong Shan would die miserably, but you''ve never been right!"


    "...!"


    "...!"


    "This time he must be dead. With Old Ancestor Xuemei suffering such heavy losses, if Zhong Shan were still alive, it would be too unreasonable. And despite Old Ancestor Xuemei''s severe injuries, it''s clear she vented her hatred."


    "Zhong Shan is dead!"


    "Dead? What a pity for someone so powerful!"


    Peoplemented Zhong Shan''s demise continuously. His aura waspletely gone, vanished. Yet, his formidable presence would forever remain in everyone''s hearts.


    A Grand Immortal who could push a Patriarch Immortal to such an extent would be remembered in history!


    In the distance, Old Ancestor Xuemei was filled with resentment. She was certain Zhong Shan was dead; otherwise, it would defy all reason.


    Why was she so unlucky? How could a Holy King at the Grand Immortal stage cause such devastating damage? Was Zhong Shan truly too strong, or was she just too unfortunate?


    Unfortunate? Could it be caused by Zhong Shan''s eye technique?


    Thinking about Zhong Shan''s eye technique, Old Ancestor Xuemei felt a surge of anger. Everything was caused by that eye technique. Hmph, bad luck?


    "Old Ancestor Xuemei, you killed my master! Today, the Ten Thousand Sword Sect will fight you to the death!"


    "Old Ancestor Xuemei, you killed my brother! Today is your death day!"


    "Old Ancestor Xuemei, you killed my husband! Today, I will take your life!"


    Suddenly, seven or eight peerless experts jumped out. They were all enemies of Old Ancestor Xuemei. Before, none dared to confront her, but now, with her so severely injured, it was the perfect time.


    Old Ancestor Xuemei red fiercely at the group. Blue light? Her bad luck wasn''t over?


    Because Old Ancestor Xuemei saw a newly ascended Patriarch Immortal in the distance, his eyes shing. Although he had just entered the Patriarch Immortal stage, he clearly desired something from Old Ancestor Xuemei.


    Filled with anger, Old Ancestor Xuemei''s figure blurred and disappeared from everyone''s sight.


    Arge group of strong cultivators disappeared along with her, some seeking revenge, others looking to take advantage of the chaos. In any case, challenging Zhong Shan today was Old Ancestor Xuemei''s biggest mistake!


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 958: The End of Time and Space

    <h4>Chapter 958: The End of Time and Space</h4>


    In the distance, on the peak of a mountain, Luo Xingchen watched the scene before him, almost numb.


    Did the Holy King die? Luo Xingchen still found it hard to believe, but the fact was that the Holy King was truly gone, and the fortune and merit bestowed upon him had vanished as well.


    Did the Holy King really die? Just like that?


    Luo Xingchen didn''t know what to feel.


    At that moment, several powerful figures approached Luo Xingchen''s direction. Taking a deep breath, Luo Xingchen''s figure flickered and disappeared from the spot.


    Did Zhong Shan really die?


    At the moment he fell into the ck hole, Zhong Shan was indeed extremely weak. By all logic, falling into a ck hole meant certain death. Zhong Shan forced himself to stay conscious, trying to escape this cmity, but the catastrophe was too immense.


    A ck hole in the Great Thousand World��how crushing must that be?


    But just as Zhong Shan tried to resist, a warmth spread through his chest, with green energy emanating from it.


    It was the Demon Summoning Banner! The Demon Summoning Banner, which had always been hidden in Zhong Shan''s chest.


    The banner emitted arge amount of green light, forming a green cocoon that quickly enveloped Zhong Shan.


    Inside the cocoon, Zhong Shan immediately felt the pressure ease. The green light slowly permeated his body, bringing an inexplicablefort that washed over him.


    Feelingfortable, the previous exhaustion overwhelmed him, and Zhong Shan''s eyes closed as he fell unconscious.


    The ck hole also sealed itselfpletely. Zhong Shan disappeared from everyone''s sight.


    Luo Xingchen vanished, and in another valley, Ying, Guiguzi, and Bai Qi watched the scene intently.


    "Sir, is it time?" Ying asked calmly.


    "Yes, the mark I made on the Demon Summoning Banner won''t be wrong. The banner is taking Zhong Shan to the end of time and space!" Guiguzi replied seriously.


    "The end of time and space? Indeed, only there is worthy of being Nuwa''s tomb!" Ying nodded.


    "Bai Qi, stay here. Sir and I will go to the end of time and space immediately!" Ying said again.


    "Yes!" Bai Qi responded promptly.


    Guiguzi nodded.


    Ying and Guiguzi took a step and disappeared, leaving Bai Qi alone in the valley. Bai Qi nced around, then turned and vanished from the spot.


    Heading to the end of time and space were not just Ying and Guiguzi, but also the arriving Saints!


    The battle between Zhong Shan and Old Ancestor Xuemei in the Nuwa Realm quickly spread far and wide. Many hadn''t witnessed the fight, but everyone who heard about it was filled with excitement!


    The Holy King of Great Zheng, Zhong Shan! Zhong Shan''s name became known to all, and a question arose in everyone''s mind: Did Zhong Shan really die?


    In such a situation, Zhong Shan should have perished, but ever since he entered the Nuwa Realm, people had to admit that Zhong Shan had continually created miracles. First, he faced two ancient immortals as a celestial, killing Taiyi, Yan Hui, and thousands of Confucian disciples, making a name for himself in one battle.


    Next, he faced the Entrapment Array, maneuvering with ease before the Patriarch Immortal Burning Lamp, the powerful Huang Long, and the Purple Sky Sect Master, taking away the Heaven and Earth Cauldron. His fame soared!


    Then, Old Ancestor Xuemei confronted him for the first time, and he casually summoned a subordinate to kill two of Xuemei''s peerless experts.


    In the distance, on the peak of a mountain, Luo Xingchen stood, numb, watching the scene unfold.


    Did the Holy King really die? Luo Xingchen still found it hard to believe, but the reality was undeniable��Zhong Shan was gone, and the fortune and merit bestowed upon him had vanished.


    Did the Holy King really die? Just like that?


    Luo Xingchen didn''t know what to feel.


    At that moment, several powerful figures approached Luo Xingchen''s direction. Taking a deep breath, Luo Xingchen''s figure flickered and disappeared from the spot.


    Did Zhong Shan really die?


    At the moment he fell into the ck hole, Zhong Shan was indeed extremely weak. By all logic, falling into a ck hole meant certain death. Zhong Shan forced himself to stay conscious, trying to escape this cmity, but the catastrophe was too immense.


    A ck hole in the Great Thousand World��how crushing must that be?


    But just as Zhong Shan tried to resist, a warmth spread through his chest, with green energy emanating from it.


    It was the Demon Summoning Banner! The Demon Summoning Banner, which had always been hidden in Zhong Shan''s chest.


    The banner emitted arge amount of green light, forming a green cocoon that quickly enveloped Zhong Shan.


    Inside the cocoon, Zhong Shan immediately felt the pressure ease. The green light slowly permeated his body, bringing an inexplicablefort that washed over him.


    Feelingfortable, the previous exhaustion overwhelmed him, and Zhong Shan''s eyes closed as he fell unconscious.


    The ck hole also sealed itselfpletely. Zhong Shan disappeared from everyone''s sight.


    Luo Xingchen vanished, and in another valley, Ying, Guiguzi, and Bai Qi watched the scene intently.


    "Sir, is it time?" Ying asked calmly.


    "Yes, the mark I made on the Demon Summoning Banner won''t be wrong. The banner is taking Zhong Shan to the end of time and space!" Guiguzi replied seriously.


    "The end of time and space? Indeed, only there is worthy of being Nuwa''s tomb!" Ying nodded.


    "Bai Qi, stay here. Sir and I will go to the end of time and space immediately!" Ying said again.


    "Yes!" Bai Qi responded promptly.


    Guiguzi nodded.


    Ying and Guiguzi took a step and disappeared, leaving Bai Qi alone in the valley. Bai Qi nced around, then turned and vanished from the spot.


    Heading to the end of time and space were not just Ying and Guiguzi, but also the arriving Saints!


    The battle between Zhong Shan and Old Ancestor Xuemei in the Nuwa Realm quickly spread far and wide. Many hadn''t witnessed the fight, but everyone who heard about it was filled with excitement!


    The Holy King of Great Zheng, Zhong Shan! Zhong Shan''s name became known to all, and a question arose in everyone''s mind: Did Zhong Shan really die?


    In such a situation, Zhong Shan should have perished, but ever since he entered the Nuwa Realm, people had to admit that Zhong Shan had continually created miracles. First, he faced two ancient immortals as a celestial, killing Taiyi, Yan Hui, and thousands of Confucian disciples, making a name for himself in one battle.


    Next, he faced the Entrapment Array, maneuvering with ease before the Patriarch Immortal Burning Lamp, the powerful Huang Long, and the Purple Sky Sect Master, taking away the Heaven and Earth Cauldron. His fame soared!


    Then, Old Ancestor Xuemei confronted him for the first time, and he casually summoned a subordinate to kill two of Xuemei''s peerless experts.


    And during the battle for the Demon Summoning Banner, he designed and executed the annihtion of all Old Ancestor Xuemei''s disciples.


    Finally, in the ultimate battle with Old Ancestor Xuemei, Zhong Shan performed astonishing feats repeatedly, causing Old Ancestor Xuemei tremendous suffering.


    Such a person, was he truly dead? After all, no one had seen Zhong Shan''s body.


    People were convinced Zhong Shan had died, but there was always a sliver of hope in their hearts that he might still be alive. But was that possible?


    The name Zhong Shan spread throughout the Nuwa Realm!


    In the mortal realm, above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, nearly everyone silently gazed at the sky.


    The fortune was gone? Where was the fortune of the Great Zheng Holy Court? Where was the boundless merit of the Great Zheng Holy Court? Gone? Everything was gone?


    Did the Holy King pass away?


    Almost everyone looked up in disbelief. Not only was the fortune gone, but even the fortune bestowed upon them had vanished. The Holy King had truly passed away.


    "Holy King, why did you leave us~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    An old minister suddenly cried out, kneeling down.


    "Holy King~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Many ministers knelt and cried together.


    Their cries moved heaven and earth, and the guards'' faces turned heavy as they knelt down as well.


    This mourning spread like a contagion, starting from the pce and spreading everywhere. Countless citizens knelt down. The Holy King''s passing brought great sorrow to the world!


    In front of the Hall of Longevity, General Lin Xiao looked up at the sky in disbelief.


    Shui Jing stared at the sky in shock, his feather fan frozen mid-motion, looking incredulously at the empty sky.


    "Why are you crying~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Suddenly, a loud shout interrupted all the crying!


    Everyone looked up to see Shui Wuhen ring at them.


    "Stand up!" Shui Wuhenmanded.


    "Prince Zichen, the Holy King has passed away, we..." an old minister said, grief-stricken.


    "Who said the Holy King has passed away? Who said the Holy King has passed away~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Shui Wuhen repeated, his second exmation a thunderous roar that made everyone''s hearts jump.


    "The fortune was merely taken by the Holy King. Who said the Holy King has passed away? Anyone who spreads the rumor of the Holy King''s death and disturbs the people of Great Zheng will be executed~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Shui Wuhen roared.


    The ministers were startled into silence.


    "The Holy King is fine. From me, Prince Zichen, to themon people, anyone who spreads false rumors about the Holy King''s death will be executed~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Shui Wuhen dered again.


    "Yes!" The ministers stood up in fear.


    Indeed, the loss of fortune didn''t necessarily mean the Holy King was dead. In this critical moment, such cries would only unsettle the people of Great Zheng!


    "Shui Jing, I nowmand you to immediately pacify the people of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court and reassure the citizens of the world!" Shui Wuhen ordered.


    "Yes!" Shui Jing responded promptly.


    "Lin Xiao, I nowmand you to maintain military morale. For Great Zheng, for the Holy King, maintain the military spirit and the heart of the world!" Shui Wuhen ordered again.


    "Yes!" Lin Xiao responded immediately.


    "Dismissed!" Shui Wuhenmanded.


    "Yes!" The ministers retreated.


    Left alone, Shui Wuhen slowly walked back to the Hall of Longevity. He closed the door and looked at Zhong Shan''s Nine Dragon Heavenly Throne. Suddenly, he knelt down, tears welling up in his eyes, fear in his voice. "Holy King, you must not be in trouble. You definitely won''t be in trouble! Great Zheng is at its most critical moment. Blessed by the Holy King, I, Wuhen, will guard Great Zheng for you. No one will take Great Zheng from us!"


    Outside the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, spies from various factions had gathered. Each spy witnessed the scene of the disappearance of the fortune above the court. Instantly, they were shocked and hastened to spread the news, adding fuel to the crisis facing Great Zheng.


    In the Underworld, at Changjing.


    With the unification of the Wheel Realm, Great Zheng''s Changjing became its center.


    On this day, the sky above Changjing churned with boundless fortune, which then mysteriously disappeared.


    The boundless fortune of Great Zheng vanished, as did its immense merit.


    For a moment, everyone in Changjing stepped out of their homes, feeling the sudden loss of the fortune that had been augmenting their own.


    What happened? How could this be?


    The fortune was gone? Ask the Holy King? Where is the Holy King?


    People were confused, and the ministers were tense, each rushing to the pce.


    "Where is the Holy King?"


    "Where is the Holy King?"


    "We need to see the Holy King!"


    In front of the Hall of Undying, ministers anxiously called out while many guards stood blocking the entrance, not letting anyone in.


    "What is all this noise?" A stern voice suddenly interrupted.


    Everyone looked up to see Yi Yan stepping forward.


    At Yi Yan''smand, the ministers immediately fell silent, except for a few high-ranking nobles who spoke up. "General Yi, we need to see the Holy King!"


    "What is this ce? Where are your manners?" Yi Yan shouted.


    "We, I... The fortune in the sky is gone. We wish to see the Holy King and ask for guidance!" the old minister quickly exined.


    "The Holy King is in seclusion. No one is to disturb him. Fortune and merit? When the Holy King emerges, it will naturally reappear and return to you. Creating such amotion in front of the Hall of Undying��are you trying to rebel?" Yi Yan red at them.


    "We dare not, we dare not!" the ministers quickly said, trembling with fear.


    "Return to your posts and perform your duties. Wait patiently for the Holy King to emerge!" Yi Yan ordered sternly.


    "Yes!" The ministers quicklyplied and slowly retreated.


    After the lower-ranking ministers left, a few high-ranking officials remained.


    Mud Buddha, Nangong Sheng, Zhao Suoxiang, and Xiao Wang looked at Yi Yan. Yi Yan led them to a quiet hall.


    "What has happened to the Holy King?" Zhao Suoxiang asked immediately.


    "The Holy King suddenly said he was going into seclusion, in the Hall of Undying. Then this happened," Yi Yan shook his head.


    "Could the Holy King be in trouble? Should we..." Zhao Suoxiang began.


    "No need. The Holy King surely knows what he''s doing. Although this situation has never urred before, in the presence of the Holy King, anything is possible. We must wait patiently," Yi Yan sighed.


    Clearly, Yi Yan was also filled with worry.


    "General Zhao, I leave the guarding of the Hall of Undying to you. No one is allowed inside, under any circumstances!" Yi Yan ordered solemnly.


    "With me here, no one will take a step inside!" Zhao Suoxiang confirmed.


    "Thankfully, the Wheel Realm is now unified. With this, there''s no threat of other dynasties taking advantage of our situation," Xiao Wang nodded in relief.


    "Yes, the Underworld is unified. I wonder how the mortal realm is faring. I imagine Shui Wuhen, Shui Jing, and Lin Xiao must be under immense pressure right now," Yi Yan sighed.


    In the Underworld, the shadow body would disappear temporarily due to the main body''s unconsciousness, only to reappear when the main body awakened. Clearly, Zhong Shan need not worry about the Underworld; the only difficulty left was Great Zheng in the mortal realm.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 959: Innate Eight Trigrams

    <h4>Chapter 959: Innate Eight Trigrams</h4>


    A cyan glow enveloped Zhong Shan''s entire body. In theforting environment, his exhaustion and fatigue were relieved, causing him to involuntarily fall into unconsciousness.


    It was unclear how long he had been unconscious, but Zhong Shan slowly awakened. Instinctively opening his eyes, he immediately saw an expanse of endless stars. However, after a moment, Zhong Shan sensed something amiss and quickly closed his eyes again to inspect his body.


    The exhaustion had vanished, and his injuries werepletely healed! Even more astonishingly, his cultivation had inexplicably advanced by an entire level.


    Great Immortal Realm! Third Heaven!


    Moreover, two True Dragons circled within him��these were the Golden Dragons of Da Zhen''s fate.


    Opening his eyes again, Zhong Shan began to survey his surroundings.


    The Demon-Summoning Banner stilly on his chest, as if it had never moved. At that moment, Zhong Shan found himself lying on a massive stone step.


    Was this within the starry sky?


    A celestial staircase, with one step after another, extended into the distant heights. Zhong Shan was in the middle of this celestial staircase, with countless stars below him, even higher than where the stars resided.


    Stars were below, around, and above him. However, the stars here were peculiar; instead of being spherical, some were elongated into strips��oddly stretched!


    Additionally, in some areas, the stars moved exceptionally fast but never seemed to get far.


    A bizarre environment indeed.


    Only this staircase seemed normal.


    A hint of doubt arose in Zhong Shan''s heart. He retrieved a crystal ball and threw it over the railingless edge of the celestial staircase.


    The crystal ball flew quickly into the starry sky, but as soon as it left the staircase''s range, its flight seemed to suddenly slow down.


    It wasn''t that the ball was flying slower; rather, time seemed to slow down! This phenomenon reminded Zhong Shan of the time maniption abilities exhibited by Luo Xingchen. Furthermore, the perfectly round crystal ball oddly elongated into a strip shape. The crystal ball, though fragile and prone to cracking with even a slight deformation, did not break at this moment. It was as if it were made of rubber.


    Zhong Shan''s expression changed slightly��it was clear this was a spatial issue.


    Time slowed down, and the spatialws were chaotic? What kind of ce was this?


    Retrieving the Demon-Summoning Banner, which had returned to its original state with no peculiarities, Zhong Shan pondered how this banner had brought him here.


    "Whoosh!"


    Suddenly, a white light shed, shooting from above Zhong Shan''s head straight towards the top of the celestial staircase.


    Perhaps due to the chaoticws here, the person flying left a trail of afterimages.


    "Mi Tian Saint?"


    Though Zhong Shan couldn''t recall Mi Tian Saint''s face, he remembered the figure clearly. It was indeed him!


    What was at the top of the celestial staircase?


    Without hesitation, Zhong Shan started ascending rapidly towards the top of the staircase.


    The celestial staircase was incredibly high, but Zhong Shan''s speed was also very fast. After the time it took to burn an incense stick, he finally reached the top.


    There, suspended in the void, was a magnificent and solemn pceplex. The central main hall was towering, reaching ten thousand feet high. The grand hall bore no que, exuding an aura of destion. Even from nearly ten thousand miles away, Zhong Shan could feel the overwhelming presence emanating from the hall. It was majestic beyond measure.


    On the square in front of the unnamed grand hall stood six people.


    Saint Mi Tian, Ying, Gui Guzi were all present, and among them was someone Zhong Shan recognized��Feng Xingyun, the Daoist Lord from the Snake Queen''s domain. However, judging by his appearance, Feng Xingyun seemed not to havee voluntarily but was forcibly brought.


    The remaining two individuals included one in a ck robe, exuding a familiar aura that Zhong Shan immediately recognized.


    "A Saint, Mozi?"


    It was definitely Mozi. Zhong Shan could never forget that aura after encountering him before.


    The other individual was d in a cyan Confucian robe. Even from a distance of ten thousand miles, a grand aura of a Confucian schr bathed Zhong Shan, eliciting an inexplicable feeling of reverence and support in his heart.


    Could it be?


    Zhong Shan didn''t know him personally, but from the back, he could guess��Confucius!


    Three Saints, two Ancestor Immortals, and one Ancient Immortal?


    Standing miles away, Zhong Shan decided not to approach. He understood that the matters at hand were beyond his current capabilities.


    The presence of Saints implied that he, a mere Great Immortal, could not influence the situation.


    The distant group seemed aware of Zhong Shan''s arrival, yet none turned around, their focus remained on the grand hall ahead.


    "Saints are the paragons of the world, yet you, a dignified Saint, resort to grave-robbing? How disgraceful!" Feng Xingyun shouted angrily, ring coldly at Saint Mi Tian.


    "Why so much nonsense? Will youe willingly, or shall I refine you?" Saint Mi Tian replied indifferently.


    At that moment, the other two Saints and the two Ancestor Immortals remained silent.


    Feng Xingyun, with a look of resentment, took a deep breath and closed his eyes. Turning around, he approached the grand hall.


    Kneeling before the grand pce, Feng Xingyun suddenly bowed in deep reverence.


    Three bows and nine kowtows!


    "Unworthy descendant Feng Xingyun, forced by circumstances, must disturb the ancestors!" Feng Xingyun dered as he bowed.


    The three Saints and two Ancestor Immortals waited patiently.


    After a moment, Feng Xingyun forced out nine drops of his blood from his fingertips, which he slowly directed onto the grand hall''s door.


    The nine drops of blood immediately stained the door red.


    "Indeed, the ancestral tomb can only be opened with the blood of Nuwa''s descendants. Saint Mi Tian has calcted well!" Ying suddenly remarked.


    Saint Mi Tian nced at Ying but remained silent, ignoring him as if an Ancestor Immortal was beneath notice.


    Ying, unperturbed, turned his gaze back to the door.


    As the blood stained the door, the entire void za began to shift. The surrounding pces rotated in concentric circles with a strange rhythm, even the spot where Zhong Shan stood moved, soon discing him by a hundred miles.


    "Boom!"


    The grand doors thundered open.


    In that instant, an explosion of countless golden rays emanated from within, illuminating the void as if it were daylight, blindingly bright.


    Amidst the golden light, arge golden diagram became faintly visible. The diagram had eight sides and was shrouded in dense golden mist, obscuring its details. As the golden rays shot out, the deformed stars in the surrounding void abruptly halted their motion, as if time itself had frozen.


    "The Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram! Truly deserving of its reputation!" Saint Mozi eximed.


    None of the assembled powerhouses rushed to seize it immediately, for here, no one could overpower the others.


    "Fellow Daoists, how about Iprehend it for a hundred years and then hand it over to you?" Confucius suddenly suggested.


    "Not so. The hall was opened because of me. Let me study it first for fifty years, then I''ll hand it over," Saint Mi Tian replied indifferently.


    The three Saints engaged in discussions, each aiming to be the first toprehend the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram. Persuasion was preferred over forceful contention, which would be ast resort.


    Meanwhile, Feng Xingyun remained kneeling, head bowed, his fists clenched with bulging veins.


    "How about leaving it in my custody?" Ying suddenly proposed.


    His suggestion immediately silenced the three Saints, who all turned to look at Ying. Especially Saint Mi Tian, though acknowledging Ying''s strength, considered him far inferior. How dare a mere Ancestor Immortal challenge the three Saints?


    "The Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram is unique, containing Fuxi''s ''Inheritance of Fate Alteration.'' Only one can inherit it! Is there any point in further discussion?" Ying said calmly.


    Saint Mi Tian looked at Ying with indifference. "Then what do you propose?"


    "Each uses their own means. Whoever obtains it, owns it!" Ying suggested nonchntly.


    "You, an Ancestor Immortal, wish topete with us? Your Tianji seems to be something I left in the Small Thousand World!" Saint Mi Tian retorted.


    "The Great Qin? Your audacity is growing!" Confucius remarked calmly.


    Ying nced at Confucius, a slight smile on his face, revealing no hint of emotion.


    "Saint Mozi!" Ying called out again, this time addressing Mozi directly. The other two Saints were slightly taken aback.


    "Ying!" Mozi acknowledged with a nod.


    "Ying has overstepped and needs Saint Mozi''s assistance!" Ying said directly.


    "As long as it''s not excessive, consider it repaying that old favor," Mozi replied.


    An old favor? The others were puzzled. How did Mozi owe Ying a favor?


    Mozi''s words were clear��he wouldn''t help Ying seize the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram.


    "Thank you. What I need is... to ensure Confucius does not obtain the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram!" Ying said with a faint smile, staring at Confucius.


    The scene fell silent. Ying''s statement was audacious!


    Ying was clearly here to seize the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram. He asked Mozi to restrain Confucius. Did he have confidence in dealing with Saint Mi Tian?


    Saint Mi Tian didn''t know whether to be pleased or angered. A Saint being underestimated by an Ancestor Immortal?


    "As you wish!" Mozi agreed.


    Mozi didn''t say he wouldn''tpete for the diagram himself, only that he wouldn''t let Confucius get it.


    "You n to stop me?" Saint Mi Tian red at Ying.


    "This is the end of time and space, not within heaven and earth. Saints? Here, a Saint cannot freely manipte the powers of heaven and earth! I wish to see how strong a Saint is without the heavens!" Ying said sternly.


    "You are truly ignorant!" Saint Mi Tian sneered.


    "In the future, within heaven and earth, I await you at Xianyang of Great Qin. But for now, here at the end of time and space, if you can defeat me and my ministers, we shall forfeit the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram!" Ying''s tone grew serious and resolute.


    "Whoosh!"


    In an instant, Ying, Gui Guzi, Saint Mi Tian, Mozi, and Confucius vanished from the za.


    Zhong Shan vaguely saw them entering the distorted stars outside.


    The contest of the powerful, the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram!


    To Feng Xingyun and Zhong Shan in the za, the mighty figures paid no heed. In their eyes, crushing these two would be effortless. However, their focus remained on the za.


    Zhong Shan stayed still, as did Feng Xingyun, who knelt before the unnamed grand hall, head bowed, fists clenched, eyes shing with resentment.


    It was a feeling of intense humiliation. Forced to open his ancestral tomb and witnessing discussions about distributing its contents, all while powerless. The humiliation was overwhelming, and Feng Xingyun felt his heart bleeding.


    When Fuxi and Nuwa were alive, who dared to disrespect the Feng family? But now, with the family in decline, they were oppressed by a group of robbers, enduring such humiliation.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 960: Orthodox Fate Cultivation

    <h4>Chapter 960: Orthodox Fate Cultivation</h4>


    The distant battle was beyond Zhong Shan''s sight, and he had no intention of watching it. He chose to wait quietly from afar. As he waited, he repeatedly recalled Ying''s words:


    "Someday, within heaven and earth, I shall always be ready at Xianyang of Great Qin. But for now, here at the end of time and space, if you can defeat me and my ministers, then we shall forfeit the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram!"


    Ying''s words were brief but imbued with arrogance and dominance. "Someday, within heaven and earth, I shall always be ready at Xianyang of Great Qin"? Did this imply that as long as Ying was in the holy capital of Xianyang, not even a Saint could do anything to him?


    Zhong Shan didn''t think Ying was boasting. On the contrary, he believed Ying could indeed achieve this.


    To contend with Saints? Such a dynasty was truly formidable!


    It was reminiscent of the days of King You of Zhou, Ji Gongnie. A Saint had once mentioned in the underworld that Ji Gongnie had in a Saint! Ji Gongnie was just an Ancestor Immortal, yet he had in a Saint?


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan realized that many things were beyond reach unless one attained a certain height.


    Patiently waiting, five days and nights passed. Suddenly, a figure returned to the za.


    Who had won? Which Saint?


    To his surprise, it was Gui Guzi! It was Mr. Gui Guzi whonded on the za.


    Did Ying manage to fend off Saint Mi Tian?


    What exactly had happened?


    Gui Guzi approached the unnamed grand hall but did not enter. Instead, he made a gesture, and a golden light shed from within. The Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram abruptlynded in Gui Guzi''s hand.


    Gui Guzi looked at the hall, then bowed slightly towards its interior.


    With the blinding brilliance of the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram gone, the interior of the grand hall revealed a massive coffin!


    Nuwa''s tomb?


    Gui Guzi, having secured the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram, disappeared in a sh.


    Gui Guzi left.


    Moments after his departure, the three Saints returned.


    They stood silently before the grand hall''s coffin.


    Though their faces were obscured, Zhong Shan knew their hearts were filled with anger. He, too, would feel indignant in their ce. Three Saints, two Ancestor Immortals, vying for one item, only for it to be taken by two Ancestor Immortals.


    No matter what transpired, it could not justify the loss of the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram.


    "Hahaha, the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram wasn''t meant for us. Fate is unchangeable. Let''s just let it go!" Moziughed heartily and vanished.


    Confucius and Saint Mi Tian exchanged nces. Though they said nothing, they were far from asposed as Mozi.


    Their figures flickered, and they too disappeared.


    They were gone! All of them!


    As for Ying, he would not return.


    With the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram taken, the Saints, no matter how desperate, would not target Nuwa''s coffin, lest they invoke heaven''s wrath.


    Zhong Shan was certain that all the powerful figures had left.


    "Two ancestors, Xingyun is unfilial, but the Feng family has only me left. To continue the Feng family bloodline, I had no choice!" Feng Xingyun kowtowed again.


    At this moment, Feng Xingyun''s eyes were filled with determination and murderous intent!


    Zhong Shan sighed softly. At this moment, there was nothing more to say. As for Nuwa''s coffin, Zhong Shan had no intention of disturbing it either.


    Facing the direction of the pce, Zhong Shan gave a slight bow and prepared to descend the celestial staircase.


    "Saint King Zhong!"


    Just as Zhong Shan was about to leave, Feng Xingyun suddenly called out.


    Zhong Shan was slightly surprised and turned to look at Feng Xingyun, who had now approached him.


    "I regret the events that transpired. Regarding the Saints'' attitudes, I was powerless to change anything," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head. After all, he and Feng Xingyun were not well-acquainted.


    "The misfortune of my family is not something Saint King Zhong should me himself for. I too share in this regret," Feng Xingyun replied with a bitter smile.


    "Indeed. In that case, I shall not disturb you any further," Zhong Shan said, preparing to leave.


    "Wait! I have a request to ask of you, Saint King Zhong!" Feng Xingyun called out urgently.


    "Oh?"


    "Is the Demon-Summoning Banner in your possession?" Feng Xingyun asked.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan replied solemnly, without hiding anything.


    "At the end of time and space, this tomb was actually built by our ancestor Fuxi. The Demon-Summoning Banner can be used to unlock the ancestor''s teachings. I ask that you lend it to me temporarily," Feng Xingyun exined.


    "The end of time and space?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "The so-called end of time and space is the edge of the Grand Thousand World. Here, time slows down, and space bes thinner, creating a unique environment. The further you go towards the edge, the slower time bes, eventuallying to a stop. Space bes thinner until it ceases to exist, which is called the Infinite Void," Feng Xingyun exined.


    "The Infinite Void?"


    "The Infinite Void gives rise to the Taiji, and the Taiji gives rise to the Two Forms. The Two Forms are the Yin and Yang realms of the Grand Thousand World. The entire Grand Thousand World is a Taiji, representing ''existence,'' while the Infinite Void represents ''non-existence.'' Beyond the end of time and space, there is nothing, and one cannot leave because as one moves towards the Infinite Void, one would cease to exist unknowingly. This is the end of time and space," Feng Xingyun borated.


    "I see," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "The Demon-Summoning Banner?" Feng Xingyun looked at Zhong Shan expectantly.


    Zhong Shan flipped his hand to retrieve the Demon-Summoning Banner, without any hesitation, sensing that Feng Xingyun was speaking the truth. The banner had brought him here, indicating its significance.


    "Thank you!" Feng Xingyun said, surprised and grateful.


    He walked back to the za and stopped at a white stone tile, not far from the unnamed grand hall. Zhong Shan then noticed a slight indentation on the tile, perfectly matching the shape of the Demon-Summoning Banner. It was inconspicuous, something only a member of the Feng family could recognize.


    Feng Xingyun ced the Demon-Summoning Banner in the indentation and forced out some of his blood, drawing a circle around the stone tile.


    "Whoosh!"


    Suddenly, arge amount of smoke began to rise from the ground.


    "Boom!"


    Behind Zhong Shan, the celestial staircase leading back to the Grand Thousand World abruptly copsed.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan was rmed. With the staircase destroyed, how would he leave this ce?


    Descending was no longer an option.


    Zhong Shan already sensed the peril of the end of time and space, where time and space were extremely thin. Stepping beyond the za, he would lose control instantly.


    Frowning, Zhong Shan moved to stand behind Feng Xingyun.


    The white mist on the ground grew thicker, gradually enveloping all the pces. In front of Zhong Shan and Feng Xingyun, a figure slowly began to materialize from the mist.


    A man d in a deerskin-like garment appeared, with long hair flowing behind him and apassionate demeanor that inspired instinctive trust at a mere nce.


    "Unworthy descendant pays respects to the ancestor!" Feng Xingyun immediately bowed.


    Fuxi? Zhong Shan was startled.


    "Do not bow. I have long since passed away; this is merely a projection, leaving some words for you. As I foresaw, my tomb has ultimately been unearthed," Fuxi said with a bitter smile.


    Indeed, it was only a projection, as the man''s eyes showed no awareness of others. It was a recorded message.


    "The Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram is not necessary. Do not ce too much importance on it," Fuxi continued.


    Not necessary? Feng Xingyun and Zhong Shan looked at Fuxi in confusion.


    "The Art of Fate Maniption, altering destiny? It''s a side path closest to ''Fate Cultivation'' within fortune cultivation. I was too fixated on it in the past and missed the true orthodox fate cultivation. Sigh!" Fuxi sighed softly.


    Orthodox fate cultivation? Isn''t it said that no one can cultivate fate?


    Fuxi seemed to reminisce before saying, "To you, thest scion of the Feng family, I will not say much. I do not wish for you to cultivate fate either. I can only foresee your generation. If the Feng family prospers in the future, then perhaps a few descendants can venture into fate cultivation."


    Fate cultivation? What exactly is it? Both Zhong Shan and Feng Xingyun stared at Fuxi, but since it was only a projection, they could not ask questions.


    "One''s fate, fortune, feng shui, umted virtue, and fame! Fame is cedst, yet every ruler of a fortune dynasty is not weaker than a sect leader. Why?"


    "Because cultivating as an emperor is cultivating fate!" Fuxi said with a bitter smile.


    Huh? Zhong Shan was taken aback. Cultivating as an emperor is cultivating fate?


    "A sect can rece its leader even if forced to step down. A feng shui master can pass on their legacy while alive. Someone cultivating fortune can do the same. But an emperor cannot. An emperor''s world is always his unless he dies because he is cultivating fate!"


    "Fame is also called studying the Five ssics. Those who cultivate fame are merely officials. Officials can be reced continuously, but an emperor cannot be reced. He is unique. The ruler of a fortune dynasty is truly cultivating fate, and it is the most orthodox fate cultivation! Unfortunately, I realized this toote. I had a fortune dynasty but turned to the Art of Fate Maniption. The world''s greatest Fate Maniptor? Hahaha, what a grand irony!" Fuxi expressed deep regret.


    Am I cultivating fate? Zhong Shan was shaken to his core.


    Feng Xingyun was equally shocked. This secret, realized by Fuxi, might be unknown to many, even to some rulers of fortune dynasties or possibly some Saints.


    "Fate cultivation is fraught with danger. You are thest scion of the Feng family. Remember, do not step into this path until you have over a hundred descendants," Fuxi warned.


    "Yes, I understand," Feng Xingyun solemnly responded, even though it was just a recording.


    "For now, you can cultivate the Art of Fate Maniption. The loss of the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram is not critical. Go to the Bai family. There, you can learn anything you wish by revealing your identity," Fuxi instructed.


    "The Bai family? I understand," Feng Xingyun nodded.


    Finally, Fuxi''s expression turned serious. "Remember, when you reach the Bai family, treat them with respect, especially their ancestor Bai Zhi. This person''s abilities rival mine. With great virtue, Bai Zhi is highly esteemed, though very low-key. Low-key individuals tend to live long lives. Sigh!"


    The Bai family? Bai Zhi? Zhong Shan made a mental note of the name.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 961: The Most Difficult Time

    <h4>Chapter 961: The Most Difficult Time</h4>


    "I have said all that needs to be said. This tomb will now drift towards the Infinite Void, to the deeper end of time and space," Fuxi said calmly.


    Dense fog surrounded them, severely limiting Zhong Shan''s visibility, but he could still feel the movement of the za beneath his feet.


    Heading towards the Infinite Void? Wouldn''t that mean it would gradually disappear?


    Feng Xingyun looked devastated.


    "Do not worry, this is the ''Heavenless Burial,'' allowing Nuwa and me topletely return to nothingness. It is the grandest burial of ancient times. Naturally, you cannot apany us. Once you leave this tomb, you cannot return to the world between heaven and earth. Hold onto the Demon-Summoning Banner; it will guide you out. Remember, the Demon-Summoning Banner belongs to Qingqiu; you must return it to Qingqiu, understand?" Fuxi instructed.


    As he spoke, Fuxi''s projection began to fade, signaling the end of his recorded message.


    Feng Xingyun solemnly kowtowed several times to Fuxi.


    At that moment, the Demon-Summoning Banner emitted a cyan light again.


    Zhong Shan and Feng Xingyun naturally grabbed onto the Demon-Summoning Banner. The banner released a massive burst of cyan light, enveloping the two of them and gradually lifting them away from Nuwa''s gigantic tomb.


    Surrounded by the cyan light, they were unaffected by the outside environment.


    Watching as the massive tomb drifted farther and farther away until it finally vanished from sight, they found themselves enveloped in a cocoon of light formed by the Demon-Summoning Banner, transforming into a streak of light traversing the starry sky.


    Zhong Shan and Feng Xingyun each sat cross-legged, meditating as they waited. To their surprise, it took an entire year for the light cocoon to dissolve.


    When the cocoon finally dissipated, they found themselves in a valley. Nearby, ruinsy scattered, the aftermath of a catastrophic event.


    "This is... the Snake Queen''s domain?" Feng Xingyun eximed, eyes wide.


    The Snake Queen''s domain had been reduced to rubble. The sky above showed no sign of the entrance to Nuwa''s realm.


    "Saint King Zhong, thank you for your assistance. I will remember this favor," Feng Xingyun said, turning to Zhong Shan.


    "No need for thanks; it was an enlightening experience for me as well," Zhong Shan replied, nodding.


    "I have other matters to attend to. If fate allows us to meet again, please return the Demon-Summoning Banner to Qingqiu," Feng Xingyun said earnestly.


    "Rest assured, I will. Until we meet again."


    "Farewell!" Feng Xingyun said, flying towards the ruins of the Snake Queen''s domain before heading off in another direction.


    Zhong Shan looked around. Although he didn''t know exactly what had transpired, he knew a significant amount of time had passed. The Demon-Summoning Banner had taken a year to bring him back, and who knows how long it took to reach the end of time and space in the first ce?


    While most people had left, finding a few stragglers wasn''t too difficult.


    Before long, Zhong Shan found a cultivator and, amid the cultivator''s astonishment, learned that it had been nearly five years since his battle with Old Ancestor Xue Mei.


    After leaving Nuwa''s realm, there had been a period of chaos and bloodshed. Eventually, things settled, and most people left. A year ago, when the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram emerged, Nuwa''s realm suddenly copsed. Those remaining gradually departed as well.


    Nearly five years? Zhong Shan was shocked. Determining his next course, he wasted no time and quickly set off��


    In the mortal realm, heroes vied for control over the territory of Da Zhen!


    Thend of Da Zhen had now be a coveted prize. Although its fortune had dissipated, thend itself remained. umting territory could slowly nurture new fortune!


    Moreover, Da Zhen had more than just fortune; talent was also key. Over time, Da Zhen''s military strength had left a deep impression on people. This Da Zhen was not to be underestimated.


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, a third of the ministers were absent from the morning assembly. Where had these ministers gone? Killed? In the court, it was impossible; they must have left on their own.


    The remaining ministers persisted in their duties.


    Shui Wuhen sat on his throne, gazing at the assembly of ministers.


    "I am pleased. Today, only a Deputy Minister of Rites left. Da Zhen is facing its most difficult time, but I firmly believe that the Saint King will return. I think those of you who remain share my belief," Shui Wuhen said solemnly.


    Comforting the ministers had be Shui Wuhen''s daily responsibility. When the fortune vanished, Shui Wuhen could still stabilize the court, but after the news from Nuwa''s realm spread, and even some memory crystals circted, many ministers began contemting leaving. The Saint King was dead, truly dead, as recorded and witnessed by all. What was the point of holding on?


    What could they do by staying in Da Zhen? Wait to die?


    Consequently, some officials were enticed by high positions and sries from enemy dynasties and defected from Da Zhen.


    As days passed, more and more people left, and the chances of Zhong Shan''s survival seemed increasingly slim. Shui Wuhen''s pressure mounted.


    "Reporting to King Zichen, an envoy from the Taiji Holy Court requests an audience!" a guard reported upon entering the hall.


    Shui Wuhen''s eyelids twitched. This was the neenth time. The previous eighteen envoys were either not received or directly killed. But this neenth time?


    The ministers all turned their gaze to Shui Wuhen, awaiting his decision.


    From their eyes, Shui Wuhen saw a sense of concern. This neenth envoy must be seen. Otherwise, there could be significant trouble, as these envoys might specifically visit the ministers next.


    "Let the envoy in," Shui Wuhenmanded.


    "Yes!"


    Soon, an envoy from the Taiji Holy Court entered, followed by two subordinates.


    "Envoy of Taiji, greetings to King Zichen and all the ministers!" the Taiji envoy greeted with a smile.


    "What is your purpose here?" Shui Wuhen asked in a deep voice.


    "The Taiji Holy Court has ceased all military actions against Da Zhen. This is a gesture of sincerity from Taiji," the envoy said.


    Beside him, Shui Jing nodded. Indeed, reports from all directions confirmed that the Taiji Holy Court''s troops had halted, leaving only the troops of the other heavenly dynasties roaming Da Zhen''snds.


    "Hmm," Shui Wuhen said solemnly.


    "Our Saint King deeply regrets the news about Da Zhen''s Saint King. Zhong Saint King was a remarkable and visionary leader. It''s truly a pity. I believe you all understand this as well. Clinging to false hopes is futile," the envoy said with apparent regret.


    Many ministers frowned, unwilling to ept Zhong Shan''s death, yet unable to deny it.


    "Da Zhen''s fortune is gone. What does the Taiji Saint King want now?" Shui Wuhen asked coldly.


    "Our Saint King believes that Da Zhen''s territory cannot hold out much longer, at most four years, perhaps even less," the envoy said with a smile.


    Shui Wuhen''s eyes grew cold, but he did not refute it, as this was no secret.


    Shui Jing and Lin Xiao also frowned deeply. Four years? At most four years!


    "Our Saint King sent me here as a messenger. Would you be willing to join Taiji? Our Saint King seeks talented individuals with great eagerness. You are all pirs of talent. Joining the Taiji Holy Court will provide you with far better treatment than any other heavenly dynasty," the envoy proposed.


    "Oh? Recruitment? The Taiji Saint King really values us, doesn''t he?" Shui Wuhen said with a coldugh.


    "It''s not about valuing you; it''s the reality. Da Zhen has been a mere name for the past five years. Yet King Zichen, Shui Jing, Lin Xiao, and the ministers have kept it stable. Such talent is rare in the entire Feng Tomb domain. Join Taiji, and you will be rewarded with titles andnds. You will be needed and valued in our court," the Taiji envoy said with a smile.


    Among the ministers, most maintained their firm gazes, but a few showed signs of wavering.


    Aligning with a heavenly court was vastly different from aligning with a sacred court. Previously, a third of the ministers had defected to heavenly courts. Now, with the sacred court offering, some were tempted.


    Prime Minister Shui Jing and General Lin Xiao remained silent, their faces unreadable.


    The Taiji envoy frequently nced at Shui Jing, Lin Xiao, and Shui Wuhen. The sess of this recruitment hinged on these three individuals, not because they held power, but due to their immense talents. The imperial decree had stated that recruiting any one of these three would result in a promotion. Recruiting two would result in a double promotion, and recruiting all three would result in a quadruple promotion. Such an enticing offer!


    "Thank the Taiji Saint King, but tell him that Da Zhen''s ministers will always belong to Da Zhen!" Shui Wuhen said coldly.


    The Taiji envoy nced at Shui Wuhen. He had anticipated that the first attempt at recruitment wouldn''t be easy, but he had devised a sinister n to sow discord, hoping to at least recruit one of the three key figures.


    "Whether you agree or not is up to you. However, regarding Da Zhen''s situation, I have a suggestion. Would King Zichen be willing to hear it?" the Taiji envoy asked with a smile.


    "Oh?"


    The ministers also looked at the Taiji envoy.


    "Right now, public morale is low. With Zhong Shan gone, it''s nearly impossible to resist external enemies unless fortune returns to Da Zhen. King Zichen could take another step forward, dere himself king, and unite the realm, thereby umting fortune and resisting enemies!" the Taiji envoy suggested slyly.


    Self-proiming as king? Usurping the throne? Changing dynasties?


    This n was indeed insidious, shaking the ministers'' hearts. Shui Jing and Lin Xiao bowed their heads, fists clenched, but said nothing.


    Changing dynasties? Reuniting fortune to resist enemies?


    "Scoundrel!"


    Shui Wuhen''s roar echoed through the hall, startling the ministers and even surprising the Taiji envoy.


    "Audacious Taiji envoy, how dare you incite rebellion within Da Zhen? Your crime is punishable by death! Guards, drag this man to the South Heavenly Gate and execute him as a warning to others!" Shui Wuhenmanded.


    "Yes!" Several guards rushed forward.


    "I am an envoy! You can''t do this! You can''t do this!" the Taiji envoy shouted in panic.


    "You came with two others who can ry the message. As for you, you will die!" Shui Wuhen decreed.


    "You can''t kill me! You can''t kill me!"


    The Taiji envoy''s cries echoed as he was dragged away, while the other two envoys retreated in fear.


    Shui Wuhen looked at the ministers and dered solemnly, "Da Zhen will always belong to the Saint King. Anyone who harbors treasonous thoughts will have their nine generations exterminated! Court is dismissed!"


    With that, Shui Wuhen swept his sleeve and disappeared from the Hall of Longevity.


    The ministers exchanged nces before gradually dispersing.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 962: The Riddle Left by Zhong Shan for Shui Wuhen

    <h4>Chapter 962: The Riddle Left by Zhong Shan for Shui Wuhen</h4>


    In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, at the Purple Dawn Pce.


    Shui Wuhen returned to his residence, carrying the weight of exhaustion on his shoulders.


    "Father, I need to speak with you," said a strikingly handsome young man, addressing Shui Wuhen.


    "Quan''er, what is it?" Shui Wuhen asked, puzzled.


    This was Shui Quan, Shui Wuhen''s son and his most favored child.


    "It''s quite important. It concerns the Shui family," Shui Quan said seriously.


    "Come to the study with me," Shui Wuhen said, somewhat surprised.


    All along, Shui Wuhen had been so busy with state affairs that he had neglected to properly educate his sons. Shui Quan, known as a yboy within the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, had never caused major trouble, so Shui Wuhen hadn''t paid much attention. But today, he seemed to have changed? Discussing family matters?


    Upon reaching the study, Shui Wuhen dismissed all the servants and set up a soundproof formation.


    "Speak. What''s so mysterious?" Shui Wuhen asked, still puzzled.


    "Father, I heard the Taiji Holy Court envoy was received today?" Shui Quan asked with a hint of excitement.


    "Yes, I had him executed," Shui Wuhen confirmed with a nod.


    "Why? Wasn''t he right?" Shui Quan asked anxiously.


    "Hmm?" Shui Wuhen''s expression hardened, his eyes turning sharp.


    The authority Shui Wuhen had umted over a century was formidable, but Shui Quan, being his favored son, acted as if he didn''t notice.


    "Father, we cannot surrender to the Taiji Holy Court; it would betray the world and those who came from the Small Thousand World!" Shui Quan said.


    "Indeed," Shui Wuhen nodded.


    "But now that the Saint King is dead, continuing to hold out will only bring more suffering to the people. Father, after leading for over a century, many ministers already look to you. Why not take the next step? No one will me you," Shui Quan said urgently.


    "Wretch! What are you suggesting?" Shui Wuhen red, an intense aura emanating from him.


    Shui Quan trembled but persisted, "I want you to proim yourself emperor. The Saint King is dead. What''s the point in holding on to Da Zhen? More ministers will leave, and in the end, we will have nothing. Father, please be emperor!"


    With that, Shui Quan knelt down with a thud.


    Shui Wuhen''s powerful aura burst forth, breaking through the study''s formation.


    "Wretch! I''ll strike you down today!"


    His roar echoed through the Shui residence, drawing arge crowd.


    "Master, please don''t!" A woman suddenly rushed in, hugging Shui Wuhen.


    Tears streamed down her face as she cried.


    "Let go! I''ll strike down this wretch today!" Shui Wuhen roared.


    "Quan''er, what have you done to anger your father? Apologize now!" the woman pleaded with Shui Quan.


    "Yes, brother, quickly apologize to father!" Shui Quan''s brothers urged.


    "I''m not wrong! Father, you''re too stubborn. This is blind loyalty. The Saint King is dead; millions saw it, there are records, and the fortune is gone. Why hold on to Da Zhen? If you are willing, the ministers will support you as emperor. Father, I beg you!" Shui Quan shouted.


    His words left the crowd silent. Clearly, many wanted Shui Wuhen to be emperor. Shui Quan''s brothers all looked eagerly, knowing that if Shui Wuhen became emperor, they would be princes.


    The woman holding Shui Wuhen also looked hopeful, as she would be empress if Shui Wuhen became emperor.


    "Rebellion, rebellion? I said in the court that anyone harboring treasonous thoughts will have their nine generations exterminated! Guards, drag Shui Quan to the South Heavenly Gate and execute him publicly! When the Saint King returns, I will atone with my life!" Shui Wuhen roared.


    Everyone was terrified. They knew Shui Wuhen was fiercely loyal, but they hadn''t expected him to be this stubborn, this loyal to the point of wanting to kill his own son?


    "Master, please don''t! He is your most beloved son!" the woman wailed, clinging to Shui Wuhen.


    "Father, spare brother Quan!" Shui Quan''s siblings pleaded in fear, their earlier ambitions dissolving instantly.


    Shui Quan was dumbfounded.


    "Do it now, execute him!" Shui Wuhen ordered the two guards.


    "Yes!" The two guards, though initially hesitant, steeled themselves.


    Executing a prince? They were witnessing something unprecedented, and their admiration for King Zichen deepened.


    "Father, Father, it''s me, Quan''er!" Shui Quan finally realized the gravity of the situation.


    "It doesn''t matter who you are. Traitors die!" Shui Wuhen thundered.


    "Mother, save me! Brothers, save me!" Shui Quan, now truly terrified, sought help from all sides. He knew his father''s character and that he truly intended to execute him.


    "Master, you cannot! You cannot!" the woman cried out.


    "Are you defying me too?" Shui Wuhen red.


    "No, no! The Saint King left an amnesty token! When Quan''er was born, the Saint King came to celebrate and gave him an amnesty token to protect him from death! Master, you cannot defy the Saint King!" the woman pleaded, sobbing.


    "I have an amnesty token, I have it!" Shui Quan frantically produced a golden token.


    The token, inscribed with the characters for "amnesty" in Zhong Shan''s handwriting, had been tucked away and forgotten after news of Zhong Shan''s death. Now, it was his salvation.


    "Father, I was wrong, I was wrong!" Shui Quan cried out repeatedly.


    Seeing the amnesty token, Shui Wuhen took a deep breath. Shui Quan was indeed his favorite son, but thew was paramount, and the Saint King''s decree was even more so. The amnesty had to be honored. Shui Wuhen internally sighed with relief.


    "Since there is an amnesty token, you will be spared the death penalty, but you will not escape punishment. Send Shui Quan to Tianxia Peak and hand him over to Elder Tian. Have him endure the Hundred Lives Cave and its hundredfold tribtions!" Shui Wuhen decreed.


    Hundredfold tribtions? Those who knew about the Hundred Lives Cave felt a shiver. A hundred lifetimes of suffering were an immense ordeal. Yet his life was spared, and no one dared to object further.


    Shui Quan was sent to Tianxia Peak!


    Tianxia Peak was where the powerful members of the Tian family, including Tian Shenzi, secluded themselves. After Zhong Shan left the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Elder Tian resided here, never involving himself in politics or battles unless summoned by Shui Wuhen.


    After learning of the situation, Elder Tian promptly sent Shui Quan into the Hundred Lives Cave.


    Watching Shui Quan enter, Elder Tian nodded and remarked, "Shui Wuhen''s intentions are sincere. May these tribtions help you grow."


    After sending his son to face his tribtions, no one in the Shui residence dared mention the matter again. Shui Wuhen, feeling deeply troubled, returned alone to the pce, standing in the Hall of Longevity.


    Gazing at Zhong Shan''s throne, it was as if Zhong Shan were still seated there.


    "Saint King, Da Zhen is in turmoil. What should I do? I have guarded it for five years. I am exhausted, but I will continue to persevere," Shui Wuhen murmured.


    "But it''s too difficult. The loyalty of the ministers, the army, the people, and the entire realm is starting to waver. What should I do? Saint King, it''s been five years. If you are still out there, please send me a sign!" Shui Wuhenmented alone, pouring out his heart''s burdens. Da Zhen was on the brink of copse. Although Shui Quan''s words had been repugnant, they were not entirely unfounded. Five years had passed without a word from the Saint King. The world believed he was dead. But Shui Wuhen had held on, simply because he had never seen Zhong Shan''s body.


    "Saint King, when you left, you entrusted Da Zhen to me, you gave me instructions... instructions?" Shui Wuhen''s furrowed brow lifted as a thought struck him.


    "Shui Wuhen!" Zhong Shan had once called out.


    "Present!" he had answered.


    "Shui Wuhen, as themander of the Fifth Legion of Da Zhen''s Holy Court, from today, I name you King Zichen, the first non-imperial duke of Da Zhen''s Holy Court. Govern Da Zhen in my stead in the mortal realm. In my absence, you are to manage Da Zhen as if I were present!" Zhong Shan had said, handing him a purple seal.


    "When you face insurmountable difficulties, ask yourself this: what do I truly hope for?"


    These scenes from over a century ago reyed in Shui Wuhen''s mind.


    "When facing insurmountable difficulties? Isn''t that now? What do I hope for? What do I hope for?" Shui Wuhen muttered.


    "I hope that the Saint King isn''t dead! The Saint King isn''t dead?" Shui Wuhen''s eyes suddenly widened.


    The Saint King isn''t dead? The moment he reached this conclusion, Shui Wuhen was stunned. Could it be that the Saint King had foreseen this and intentionally left these words?


    "King Zichen? ''Zi'' means noble; ''Chen'' means residence. The Saint King wanted me to protect Da Zhen''s Holy Court, to weather all storms? No, no!" Shui Wuhen frowned.


    Initially, he thought his title was meant to symbolize his role in protecting Da Zhen. But now it seemed much more intricate.


    King Zichen? Purple residence? Shui Wuhen quickly sifted through his memories.


    In an instant, he remembered someone. The realization made him gasp. It was indeed very subtle.


    Purple residence? Master Zichen! Back when Zhong Shan was in the Golden Core stage and arrived at Wushuang City, he helped Shui Wuhen''s father win the mayoral election by involving a master arrow maker, Master Zichen. Using Master Zichen''s arrows, Zhong Shan had orchestrated a framing scheme, his strategies soplex that it was impossible to discern truth from deception. Even though Shui Wuhen knew the entire process, he couldn''t tell which parts were real and which were fake. Ultimately, Zhong Shan triumphed, sweeping away all the contenders.


    "The Saint King''s meaning is that truth and falsehood are intertwined. Only by persevering until the end can the true victor be revealed, just as the Saint King ultimately triumphed, indicating his return?" Shui Wuhen''s eyes widened further.


    "The Saint King is still alive. He wants me to hold on until he returns! The Saint King will surelye back!" Shui Wuhen eximed in excitement.


    Solving Zhong Shan''s riddle filled Shui Wuhen with a renewed sense of purpose. The fatigue that had weighed on him lifted significantly.


    "Yes, the Saint King''s mysteries are not for mere mortals to decipher. Saint King, I will do everything in my power to hold out until your return!" Shui Wuhen vowed, bowing deeply to Zhong Shan''s Nine-Dragon Throne.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 963: Ten Generations of Loyalty

    <h4>Chapter 963: Ten Generations of Loyalty</h4>


    King Zichen, Shui Wuhen, having dealt with the court and disciplining his rebellious son, Shui Quan, returned to his responsibilities. Meanwhile, General Lin Xiao, following the court session, followed his routine by heading to the forbidden army camp beneath the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    This vast area housed Da Zhen''s elite troops, numbering over 30 million. It included elite soldiers from the Phoenix, Xuanwu, Dragon, Tiger, and even Wolf ns. Within the camp were specialized units such as wolf cavalry, tiger cavalry, dragon cavalry, phoenix cavalry, and even Xuanwu cavalry, representing the most formidable forces of Da Zhen.


    Lin Xiao had never mobilized these troops, regardless of the crises that arose, as they were Da Zhen''s reserve force, to be used only as ast resort. Previously, Lin Xiao visited the camp monthly, but since the disappearance of Da Zhen''s fortune, he had been visiting every three days. After the news of Zhong Shan''s death in Nuwa''s realm, Lin Xiao visited daily, sometimes even three times a day, to stabilize the troops'' morale.


    Afterforting the troops, Lin Xiao, slightly weary, entered the centralmand tent.


    The Tiger n Supreme, Yin Luori, the Xuanwu n Supreme, Guishe, and several other key figures looked at Shui Wuhen.


    "General, you have worked hard!" Yin Luori said with a sigh.


    Over the years, everyone had witnessed Lin Xiao''s dedication. They were deeply moved by his efforts.


    "I am grateful for your support in maintaining the army''s morale," Lin Xiao said, bowing to them.


    "You are too humble, General. Your efforts are invaluable," Yin Luori said, helping Lin Xiao up.


    "It''s necessary. These 30 million elites and divine beasts are Da Zhen''sst strength. If we lose them, Da Zhen will truly cease to exist. As long as they remain, no matter how many cities we lose, we can reim them!" Lin Xiao dered firmly.


    "General, do you think the Saint King is still alive?" Guishe asked, frowning.


    "The Saint King is certainly alive. You worry too much, Guizun. I know everyone has doubts, but I can assure you, the Saint King is fine. This is Da Zhen''s most challenging time. Please stand with me and support the Saint King to the end!" Lin Xiao said, bowing again.


    Lin Xiao,mander of Da Zhen''s First Legion, was known for his pride and unparalleled determination. He had only ever submitted to one person: Zhong Shan. Never before had he bowed so much, not even to a Saint. But today, he bowed repeatedly to those beneath him, all for the sake of Da Zhen.


    "General, there''s no need for that. With your assurance, we are at ease. The Xuanwu n chose Da Zhen and will not leave at this critical time," Guishe said.


    "The Tiger n will also stay!"


    "The Dragon n too!"


    "The Phoenix n too!"


    "The Wolf n forever!"


    "General, we are eternally loyal to Da Zhen!"


    The derations of loyalty echoed through the camp. Lin Xiao nodded.


    After inspecting the forbidden army camp, Lin Xiao headed back. Though reassured by the derations of loyalty, he knew not to fully trust them. Five years had changed everyone''s mindset. If the Saint King did not return, no one could guarantee their actions in the future.


    Simultaneously, Lin Xiao''s heart was filled with bitterness. Saint King, are you still alive?


    With a heavy heart and exhausted body, Lin Xiao returned to the Grand General''s residence.


    "Master, we have guests!" a servant greeted him as soon as he entered.


    "Oh? Who?" Lin Xiao asked, slightly surprised.


    "The Minister of War, Lang Zhen, along with several officials from the Ministry of War!" the servant replied.


    "They''re here again?" Lin Xiao''s face showed a hint of impatience.


    "Yes, I''ve escorted them to the Zixuan Hall," the servant said.


    Lin Xiao nodded and walked towards the Zixuan Hall.


    Inside the Zixuan Hall sat seven or eight officials in formal attire. The leader, Lang Zhen, had a slightly reddish face, as if his skin naturally bore that hue.


    "Grand General!" The group immediately stood and bowed slightly to Lin Xiao.


    Lin Xiao nodded, took his seat at the head, and looked at Lang Zhen, knowing he was the one leading this visit.


    "What brings you here?" Lin Xiao asked directly.


    "We are here for the sake of Da Zhen''s state affairs!" Lang Zhen said firmly.


    "State affairs of Da Zhen? Oh?" Lin Xiao frowned.


    "We implore the Grand General to deploy the forbidden army to defend our falling cities. If we don''t take strong action now, Da Zhen is in grave danger!" Lang Zhen said.


    "The forbidden army cannot be moved. How many times have I told you that?" Lin Xiao said sternly.


    "But, Grand General, can you stand by and watch as our cities fall one by one? Today, the Taiji envoy''s words were correct. Four years��at most, we can only hold out for four more years. But if we deploy the forbidden army, we can hold for at least six years. If you had listened to me from the start and deployed the forbidden army, we wouldn''t be in this situation. We could have held for twenty years, Grand General!" Lang Zhen argued.


    Lin Xiao red at Lang Zhen. "Minister of War, mind your own business. My decisions are not yours to question!"


    "Mind my own business? As the Minister of War, we and my colleagues are responsible for managing Da Zhen''s military. But you obstruct us at every turn. How are we supposed to do our jobs? Deploying troops is the only way to extend our defense. Da Zhen will not fall under our watch, but you are dooming us by hoarding military power!" Lang Zhen shouted.


    "Da Zhen will fall under my watch?" Lin Xiao retorted.


    "Won''t it? If you deploy the forbidden army, we wouldn''t be in such dire straits. Grand General, you were a military genius in the mortal realm, but we are no longer mortals. Both of us have ascended. Your old methods don''t apply anymore. For Da Zhen to survive, we must fight. Only through battle can Da Zhen endure. But you''ve be a coward, hoarding military power and forcing us to cower with you!" Lang Zhen''s voice echoed throughout the Grand General''s residence, drawing attention.


    "What do you want?" Lin Xiao did not refute.


    Indeed, if he deployed the forbidden army, he could hold out for thirty years, not just twenty. But he hadn''t done so.


    "I believe you are unfit to hold Da Zhen''s Grand General''s military seal! Hoarding the seal is pushing Da Zhen to the brink. You will be remembered as Da Zhen''s traitor. Today, on behalf of the Ministry of War, I implore the Grand General to hand over the seal!" Lang Zhen demanded.


    "Hand over the seal!" the other officials echoed.


    Lin Xiao''s chest heaved with anger as he tried to suppress it. "Hand the seal to you?"


    "Hand it to me, to King Zichen, or to the Prime Minister��anyone but you. If the seal remains in your hands, Da Zhen is doomed!" Lang Zhen insisted.


    Lin Xiao stared at Lang Zhen, his eyes burning with intensity. He knew that handing over the seal would mean losing control over Da Zhen''s most vital military power. The thought of the forbidden army being misused or squandered by less capable hands filled him with dread. Yet, the mounting pressure from within and outside the court was undeniable.


    As Lin Xiao weighed his options, the words of Zhong Shan echoed in his mind. He knew the true essence of loyalty and the weight of his responsibility. Handing over the seal might temporarily cate the Ministry of War, but it would ultimatelypromise the very integrity and survival of Da Zhen.


    "Lang Zhen, you may think you know what''s best for Da Zhen, but youck the foresight and the understanding of the true stakes involved. The forbidden army is ourst line of defense, and I will not hand over the seal lightly. I stand by my decision to protect Da Zhen with every fiber of my being. This discussion is over!" Lin Xiao dered, his voice resolute.


    The officials exchanged uneasy nces, realizing the futility of their demands. Lin Xiao''s unwavering determination left no room for further argument. They reluctantly nodded and exited the hall, their hopes of gaining control over the forbidden army dashed.


    As Lin Xiao watched them leave, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. He would hold the line for as long as it took, believing in the eventual return of Zhong Shan and the restoration of Da Zhen''s glory.


    "Hand over the military seal!" the officials from the Ministry of War pressed once again.


    "Bang!"


    With a single palm strike, Lin Xiao shattered the tea table beside him.


    "Get out of here!" Lin Xiaomanded.


    Furious, Lin Xiao''s outburst prompted the household guards to rush in immediately.


    Lang Zhen nced at Lin Xiao and, with a flick of his sleeve, said coldly, "We have witnessed the Grand General''s attitude. We will give you some time to consider. We hope you won''t bring ruin to Da Zhen, a thousand-year dynasty, through your stubbornness. I will return to discuss this with you another day!"


    With that, Lang Zhen and the officials from the Ministry of War left. Lin Xiao remained in the Zixuan Hall, fuming.


    Back at his residence, Lang Zhen met with another individual in a side chamber.


    "Lang Daren, you handled it excellently!"


    "This is the eighth time. With Da Zhen''s continued defeats and Lin Xiao facing criticism from all sides, it won''t be long before he is forced to hand over the military seal," Lang Zhen said, nodding in satisfaction.


    "Rest assured, Lang Daren. Everything you''ve done today has been recorded and will be sent to the Taiji Holy Court. When you join the Taiji Holy Court, you will start as at least a third-rank official. Although it is a lower rank than here, the benefits will be far greater. I will need your support then!" the other man said.


    "Of course," Lang Zhen replied, afortable smile spreading across his face.


    After Lang Zhen left, Lin Xiao sat alone in the Zixuan Hall, seething. They were forcing him. The defeats, though minimized, were inevitable given the overwhelming circumstances. Yet every defeat was med on him, adding immense pressure.


    "Father, were those people here to pressure you again?" a young man asked, looking at Lin Xiao.


    "Don''t worry about it, Zhong''er. I''m used to it," Lin Xiao replied with a bitter smile.


    This was Lin Zhong, Lin Xiao''s son.


    "Yes!" Lin Zhong hesitated, as if wanting to say more.


    Seeing his son''s obedient demeanor, Lin Xiao felt a hint offort and looked up at Lin Zhong.


    "Hmm? Zhong''er, what happened to your face?" Lin Xiao asked, noticing a bruise.


    "N-nothing," Lin Zhong quickly shook his head.


    "Tell me, who hit you? This bruise is from a punch. Who did it?" Lin Xiao''s anger red.


    His beloved son had been beaten? Who dared?


    Under Lin Xiao''s intense gaze, Lin Zhong finally spoke softly, "It was King Zichen''s son, Shui Quan. I''ve brought shame to you, Father."


    "Shui Quan?" Lin Xiao was surprised.


    Having revealed the truth, Lin Zhong no longer hid anything.


    "Yes, Shui Quan. He deliberately challenged me to a duel, knowing I couldn''t win, and continuously humiliated me!" Lin Zhong said angrily.


    "Why would he do that?" Lin Xiao frowned.


    "It was to get the Da Zhen military seal from you!"


    "Oh?"


    "After beating me, Shui Quan said..."


    "What did he say?"


    "He said you''re unfit to hold the seal and should hand it over to his father. He said our Lin family is outdated and unworthy of such responsibility!" Lin Zhong bit his lip.


    Lin Xiao''s frown deepened.


    "Shui Quan is just a child and doesn''t understand," Lin Xiao said, though he did not hold Shui Quan entirely at fault.


    "Father, there''s something I want to say, but I''m not sure if I should," Lin Zhong began.


    "There''s nothing you can''t say between us. Go ahead," Lin Xiao replied.


    "Yes, Father. I believe that Shui Quan targeting your military seal might be King Zichen''s idea. Many people outside say that King Zichen ns to change the dynasty, and it''s not just empty talk," Lin Zhong said.


    "Shui Wuhen? He wouldn''t do that!" Lin Xiao frowned, but there was a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes.


    "No, Father, it''s very likely. It''s been five years since the Saint King left, with no fortune and no word from him. The world believes he''s dead, but only you hold on to that slim hope. Is that possible? It''s been five years, and others have found their paths. Shui Wuhen is no different. He wants to change the dynasty; it''s not impossible. Now, he has won over many ministers. He can dere himself emperor at any time. But our Lin family is not making any ns. Are we foolish?" Lin Zhong continued.


    Lin Xiao remained silent, listening to his son.


    "Father, others say you''re hoarding the forbidden army, hindering the nation and the people. But I see that because you hold the forbidden army, Da Zhen hasn''t fallen into chaos. The forbidden army is a deterrent; it cannot be deployed. Without the fortune to bind their hearts and without yourfort, they would have surrendered long ago. If they surrendered, Da Zhen would copse like a flood. It''s because of you that Da Zhen''s situation is under control. The others are just ipetent!" Lin Zhong said.


    Lin Xiao nodded, feeling a sense of pride in his son''s insight.


    "But Father, the Saint King is dead. Holding on is meaningless. If those ipetent fools want the seal, give it to them. We don''t need it. The world is vast; there''s plenty of space for our Lin family. Let Shui Wuhen face the consequences of his actions. We don''t need the title of Grand General anymore," Lin Zhong urged passionately.


    "Who said the Saint King is dead?" Lin Xiao''s brow furrowed deeply, his voice taking on a sharp edge.


    This seemed to be a taboo topic for Lin Xiao, one he would not allow others to touch.


    "Father, stop deceiving yourself. The Saint King is dead. The whole world knows it. The Saint King is dead! We��" Lin Zhong tried to persuade.


    "Enough, get out!" Lin Xiao ordered sternly.


    "Father! Even if you don''t think of yourself, think of our brothers on the front lines and the future of our Lin family."


    "Get out!" Lin Xiao repeated.


    Reluctantly, Lin Zhong looked at his father, nodded, and left the room.


    Sitting in the Zixuan Hall, Lin Xiao remained there until midnight, his heart heavy with worry and bitterness. Was the Saint King really dead?


    "Saint King, are you really dead?" Lin Xiao muttered, clutching his hair.


    He recalled hisst conversation with Zhong Shan, the words suddenly resurfacing in his mind��


    "In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, in the Kunshan area, I''ve never had anyone build there. It''s still the same as it was eight hundred years ago. We were both soldiers of the Da Kun Kingdom there. We fought and drank there. In my absence, if you have time, go and take a look," Zhong Shan had said.


    With a restless heart, Lin Xiao unknowingly made his way to the Kunshan area as Zhong Shan had mentioned.


    Under the enchanting night sky, Lin Xiao''s heart was in turmoil. Standing on a hill in the Kunshan area, he drank strong liquor and looked around. No one disturbed him because this was a restricted area.


    As he gazed around, memories from a thousand years ago surfaced.


    Back then, Lin Xiao was just a soldier, and Zhong Shan, hiding his identity after Wei Kuier''s death, hade here, met Gan Bao''er, and formed a bond with Lin Xiao.


    "This was the territory of the Da Kun Kingdom. Over there is the border with the Zhao Kingdom," Lin Xiao murmured with a bitter smile.


    Pointing into the distance, Lin Xiao felt slightly intoxicated. With his cultivation level, avoiding intoxication was easy, but at this moment, he didn''t want to be sober. He wanted to be drunk to numb his frustration.


    "Here, the Saint King saved me once; over there, he saved me again; here, he took a bullet for me; Brother Zhong, here you took a sword for me. Brother, I owe you my life ten times over!" Lin Xiao said bitterly, his eyes brimming with tears.


    In times of distress, emotions are the most unstable, and fragments of past memories sh through the mind.


    Lin Xiao''s frustration made him point around randomly, but Zhong Shan''s words before he left came rushing back into his mind��


    "Lin Xiao, as the Grand Marshal of Da Zhen''s Holy Court, youmand the First Legion. Today, I bestow upon you the Da Zhen military seal, granting youmand over all Da Zhen''s forces in the mortal realm. Military orders are absolute!"


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    "Lin Xiao, you have been my longest-serving general and my most trusted one. As I hand over the military seal to you, I speak not as your emperor but as your elder brother."


    Elder brother? Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, the brotherly bond buried deep within Lin Xiao''s bones surged forth. He wanted to call out "brother," but he restrained himself.


    "Understood."


    "I won''t say any sentimental words. Remember, this military seal is entrusted to you by me. Once it''s in your hands, you cannot give it to anyone else. No matter what happens, no matter the circumstances, remember, the seal is to be returned only to me!"


    "Brother Zhong, elder brother... elder brother?" Lin Xiao shuddered.


    Lin Xiao sobered up instantly. The seal was entrusted to him by the Saint King and must be returned to the Saint King, regardless of the circumstances. Had he almost forgotten his brother''s trust?


    "Saint King, I have failed you!" Lin Xiao suddenly cried, tears streaming down his face.


    A wave of regret overwhelmed him, and another memory surfaced, from before Da Zhen was founded. The altars were ready, awaiting the heavenly ceremony to establish the kingdom. Back then, Zhong Shan spoke to him, with Wei Yinn by his side��


    "Brother, today is thest time I will call you brother. After today, I will be your subject," the man said excitedly.


    "Lin Xiao, remember, we will always be brothers. In name, we are sovereign and subject, but in reality, we are like brothers," Zhong Shan said solemnly to this former General of Da Kun.


    "Understood," Lin Xiao replied excitedly, his eyes filled with admiration for Zhong Shan.


    "However, we could not have established this kingdom without you, Lin Xiao," Zhong Shan added.


    "It''s been forty-two years. I''ve been waiting for this day. Back then, when Su Lianxian threatened you, we were ready to overthrow the Da Kun Kingdom. But you refused. Now that he has broken his promise, we cannot show mercy. Otherwise, how long would we have to wait? You''ve saved my life ten times, Brother Zhong. Even if I die of old age, I will ensure that ten generations of my descendants follow you," Lin Xiao said earnestly.


    "My life was saved by you ten times. Even if I die, ten generations of my descendants will follow you!"


    The powerful memory reverberated in Lin Xiao''s mind, transporting him back to those days and filling him with shame.


    Suddenly, Lin Xiao knelt on the hillside, bowing deeply. "Elder brother, watch over me. I, Lin Xiao, am not one to break my word. Without you, I would have died ten times over. What is there to fear in dying once more?"


    "Smash!" Lin Xiao threw the wine jar in his hand to the ground with force.


    Lin Xiao''s heart suddenly felt much clearer. Previously, he had been preupied with thoughts of his family and his sons, but now he saw all those worries as meaningless.


    The next day, everyone noticed a change in Lin Xiao. He seemed more energetic and less troubled. What had happened? The master, who had always been frowning, now appeared different.


    Lin Zhong found a quiet moment to meet with Lin Xiao alone.


    "Father, did you think through what I said yesterday? Our Lin family doesn''t need to curry favor with Shui Wuhen. My brothers shouldn''t have to die on the battlefield for them. Return the military seal to them, and I..." Lin Zhong began eagerly, seeing Lin Xiao in good spirits.


    "Enough!" Lin Xiao interrupted with a shout.


    "F-Father?" Lin Zhong was taken aback.


    "Lin Zhong!" Lin Xiao said sternly.


    "Yes, Father?" Lin Zhong felt a pang of fear. His father usually called him "Zhong''er," but now it was "Lin Zhong," creating a sense of distance between them.


    "Do you remember when I told you that the Saint King saved my life ten times?" Lin Xiao asked.


    "I dare not forget!" Lin Zhong quickly replied.


    "Do you know why I named you ''Zhong''?" Lin Xiao asked, his tone grave.


    Lin Zhong seemed to realize something but did not dare to speak.


    "''Zhong'' stands for loyalty��to the Saint King. I once swore that the Lin family would remain loyal to the Saint King for ten generations, loyal to the Zhong family. Even if the Saint King were gone, our family would remain loyal to the Zhong family. The Zhong family still has many empresses and crown princes. Remember, for the next ten generations, no one may rebel!" Lin Xiao dered firmly.


    "Yes, I was wrong!" Lin Zhong immediately said.


    "Good. Remember, your name is Lin Zhong, and you are eternally loyal to the Zhong family. For ten generations, there will be no betrayal! This will be the new ancestral teaching of the Lin family!" Lin Xiao said sternly.


    "Yes, I understand. But..." Lin Zhong began.


    "But what?" Lin Xiao asked.


    "But what if Shui Wuhen does attempt to change the dynasty?" Lin Zhong asked.


    "Shui Wuhen? As long as he doesn''t change the dynasty, our Lin family will remain loyal to Da Zhen. If he dares to attempt a coup, I will deal with him!" Lin Xiao said, his eyes zing.


    The oldmanding presence of the First Legion''smander radiated from Lin Xiao once again.


    "Yes!" Lin Zhong quickly responded.


    "And the Minister of War, Lang Zhen, and his demands for the military seal?" Lin Zhong asked after a moment''s thought.


    "Jumping clowns, thinking they can force the seal from my hands. Hmph, in this world, the seal will only be handed to the Saint King. Anyone who tries to take it will pay with their life!" Lin Xiao said fiercely.


    Lin Zhong stared at his father in awe, having never seen thismanding and resolute side of him before.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 964: Why

    <h4>Chapter 964: Why</h4>


    After the morning court session, Prince Zichen reprimanded his son, while Lin Xiao reaffirmed his oath. Prime Minister Shuijing returned to his mansion with a slightly grim expression on his face. The words of the envoy from the Taiji Sacred Court seemed to have struck a nerve.


    "Finally, someone brought it up?" Shuijing muttered to himself as he entered his residence, his face darkening further.


    "Husband, you''re back?" a gentle voice called out. It was Liu Yanyan, Shuijing''s wife. She had once been the ninth concubine of King Xuan of the Daluotian dynasty in the small thousand world. Due to their past life''s karma, Shuijing had always been deeply attached to her. With the help of Zhong Shan, his wish was eventually fulfilled.


    "Yes," Shuijing nodded, his face heavy with thoughts. Liu Yanyan helped him to sit down, massaging his shoulders as he brooded.


    "Father, you''re back?" A voice came from outside. A man in white robes entered, exuding an air of schrly elegance, much like Shuijing himself.


    "Mother is here too!" the man in white respectfully greeted.


    "Jiang''er, you''ve been looking for your father. Now that he''s back, you can talk," Liu Yanyan said.


    "Hmm?" Shuijing looked slightly surprised.


    "Yes, mother," Shui Jiang smiled.


    "Should I leave so you can talk in private?" Liu Yanyan asked.


    "No need. You are my mother. Even though what I want to discuss with father is important, it''s fine for you to hear it too. Besides, you can help persuade him. Everyone knows father loves you the most," Shui Jiang said sweetly.


    "You sweet talker!" Liu Yanyanughed.


    "What is it?" Shuijing asked his son.


    "It''s about our family''s future," Shui Jiang immediately set up a barrier, ensuring only the three of them could hear.


    "Our family''s future?" Shuijing frowned.


    "Father, please stop pretending you don''t know. Ever since I was a child, I knew you were the smartest person in the world. I may not remember the Sage King, as I was too young when the heavens were created, but I know that in today''s court, no one is smarter than you. You must be fully aware of everything I''ve done these past years; you just haven''t confronted me about it," Shui Jiang said.


    Shuijing did not refute but looked coldly at his son, "I can pretend not to see what you''ve done. But today, you want to bring it up?"


    "Yes," Shui Jiang said firmly.


    "Conspiring with enemy envoys and plotting against the Grand Zhong, what crime do you think I should use you of? Treason?" Shuijing''s eyes shed with anger.


    "Husband, Jiang''er is still young!" Liu Yanyan tried to calm him.


    "Young? If he were a mortal, he''d be holding his great-grandson by now. Young? Conspiring with various enemy dynasties is a grave crime!" Shuijing said solemnly.


    "Would I have done it without your support?" Shui Jiang retorted.


    "My support?"


    "Yes. The first time I made contact with a foreign dynasty, you knew. But why didn''t you stop me? You also wanted to secure a future for the Shui family, right?" Shui Jiang said defiantly.


    "Sigh," Shuijing sighed softly.


    "Father, an envoy from the Taiji Sacred Court has already mentioned that if you are willing, you will immediately be granted a second-rank official position upon arrival. With your abilities, obtaining a new dukedom would not be difficult!" Shui Jiang quickly added.


    "Ridiculous! I am a minister of Grand Zhong. While Grand Zhong stands, how could I think of serving the enemy?" Shuijing''s eyes shed with stern resolve.


    Shuijing had a bottom line. He could tolerate Shui Jiang''s interactions with outsiders to secure a future for the family, but his own principles were unbreakable. He had promised the Sage King.


    "Father, you know better than anyone that the Sage King is dead. If he were still alive under such circumstances, the ancestors of the Grand Thousand World would be ashamed. How could the Sage King surpass them in just over a hundred years since the creation of the heavens? A miracle from the Sage King? Were all those powerful figures blind?" Shui Jiang said gravely.


    "The Sage King?" Shuijing sighed softly.


    Zhong Shan had died. Shuijing had epted this fact the day he received the news because his calctions showed no chance of Zhong Shan surviving. He held on for so long partly for a faint hope, but more importantly, to honor his promise to Zhong Shan.


    Shuijing was not someone who broke promises or acted treacherously. With the fall of Grand Zhong imminent, Shuijing continued his efforts out of loyalty. Four yearster, if Grand Zhong fell, he would seek another path.


    Thus, he turned a blind eye to Shui Jiang''s efforts to find a way out for the family. But today, his son confronted him directly. Though Shui Jiang was still young and naive, Shuijing couldn''t me him��it was a father and son after all.


    "Now, rumors are spreading that Prince Zichen is nning to change the dynasty. Father, doesn''t that frustrate you? Prince Zichen has led Grand Zhong for over a hundred years, and half of the court are his loyal followers. He could change the dynasty whenever he wants! We''ve been working for him all this time. Are you willing to be his subordinate?" Shui Jiang said earnestly.


    "With your talents and pride, I believe you would never acknowledge him as your lord because he is not worthy. In the small thousand world, he was less capable, achieved less, and was stubborn and inflexible. You would never submit to him!" Shui Jiang continued.


    "He hasn''t changed the dynasty," Shuijing shook his head.


    "Isn''t it obvious? If he doesn''t reorganize and gather new fortune, Grand Zhong will fall within four years. He will certainly im it''s the ''trend of the times'' and change the dynasty. The rumors are everywhere, and I even heard it from his son, Shui Quan," Shui Jiang exined.


    "He is he, and his son is his son. I am certain Shui Wuhen would never usurp the throne," Shuijing shook his head.


    "But what if?"


    "There is no ''what if.'' Shui Wuhen would never do it!"


    "Can I at least make a hypothesis?" Shui Jiang asked helplessly.


    "Go on," Shuijing nodded, allowing it.


    "Right now, there are only two possibilities: either Shui Wuhen changes the dynasty, or he holds on until the end and you serve for another four years," Shui Jiang stated.


    "Jiang''er, how can you speak to your father like that?" Liu Yanyan''s eyes widened.


    Shuijing wasn''t angry. Despite the harsh words, they were better than hypocritical ttery from outsiders.


    "So, what do you propose?" Shuijing asked solemnly.


    "I think father has three options," Shui Jiang replied.


    "Oh?"


    "First, join the Taiji Sacred Court now; second, with your abilities, you could leave and start a new dynasty; third, with your talents, you could outmaneuver Shui Wuhen and take over Grand Zhong yourself," Shui Jiang said excitedly.


    "Absurd!" Shuijing''s eyes shed with anger.


    Supporting Grand Zhong was Shuijing''s bottom line, and now his son was suggesting he usurp the throne? It was no wonder Shuijing was furious.


    "Husband, calm down!" Liu Yanyan quickly interjected.


    "Mother, please persuade Father. Where did I go wrong?" Shui Jiang pleaded.


    Liu Yanyan shook her head, "This household is led by your father. I follow his lead."


    Shui Jiang felt frustrated.


    "Father, the Sage King is already dead. You''ve served Grand Zhong dutifully for five years��that''s enough!" Shui Jiang said anxiously.


    "Who says the Sage King is dead? Do you believe the words of those fools?" Shuijing retorted angrily.


    "Father, I know you understand the truth!"


    "The Sage King still has a chance to be alive, even if it''s a slim one," Shuijing insisted, shaking his head.


    "How big is that chance? Doesn''t Father find itughable? It''s practically zero!" Shui Jiang eximed.


    Shuijing shook his head, "As long as Shui Wuhen does not usurp the throne and as long as Grand Zhong stands, I am the Prime Minister of Grand Zhong. Usurp the throne? Don''t even think about it!"


    Seeing that persuasion was futile, Shui Jiang frowned in thought. Persuasion wasn''t working��perhaps provocation might.


    "Father, don''t you feel frustrated all these years? In the small thousand world, Shui Wuhen''s talents are inferior to yours, his achievements are inferior, he''s inferior in every way. He is even slightly inferior to General Lin Xiao. Why did the Sage King confer him the title of prince? Why didn''t you lead Grand Zhong? What qualifications does Shui Wuhen have?" Shui Jiang said.


    Hearing Shui Jiang''s words, Shuijing''s brow furrowed. Indeed, for over a hundred years, although Shuijing never spoke of it, he had felt some injustice. Why Shui Wuhen?


    However, this sense of injustice never influenced his work. Public matters were public, and private matters were private��Shuijing distinguished them clearly.


    "He''s so stubborn, so inflexible, far inferior to you, Father. Even if he doesn''t change the dynasty, he will lead Grand Zhong to ruin. Am I right, Father? Such a person is not worthy of your loyalty..." Shui Jiang continued.


    As he listened, Shuijing''s pupils suddenly constricted.


    In an instant, Shuijing seemed to have an epiphany, while Shui Jiang was slightly taken aback��


    "Shuijing, you are the most learned person in Grand Zhong. With you as the head of the civil officials, I am reassured," Zhong Shan had said.


    "Thank you, Sage King!"


    "I trust you! In the days when I am gone, I leave you with three words. Remember them, especially in times of great change," Zhong Shan had said.


    "I will keep them in my heart. Please enlighten me, Sage King," Shuijing had replied.


    "The three words are ''why'' (Ϊʲô)," Zhong Shan had said meaningfully.


    Why! Why? Just those three words? Shuijing hadn''t understood them at first, looking up at Zhong Shan in confusion.


    "I know you don''t understand now, but remember these words. When the timees, you will grasp their meaning," Zhong Shan had said��


    This was what Zhong Shan had told him before leaving. Shuijing was an extremely intelligent man, and it wasn''t long after Zhong Shan left that Shuijing began to understand what "why" referred to.


    Why? Why Shui Wuhen and not himself? He was more virtuous and talented than Shui Wuhen, so why did the Sage King trust him so much? Shuijing had long guessed what Zhong Shan meant but couldn''t fathom why.


    Was it suspicion of himself? No! Zhong Shan trusted himpletely��of that, Shuijing was certain.


    Was Shui Wuhen more loyal? No! At that time, his loyalty was no less than Shui Wuhen''s.


    Had Shui Wuhen followed Zhong Shan longer? No! Lin Xiao had been with Zhong Shan even longer!


    Then why?


    "I trust you! In the days when I am gone, I leave you with three words. Remember them, especially in times of great change."


    Was this time of great change what the Sage King had referred to?


    Before the great change, even if Shuijing understood the Sage King''s words, he didn''t fully grasp their meaning. It was only when the upheaval arrived that he trulyprehended them.


    He finally understood Shui Wuhen''s strengths. In the small thousand world, it was evident that Shui Wuhen possessed a quality that even the ten great armymanderscked, a trait unnoticed by everyone, including Shui Wuhen himself. Only Zhong Shan had recognized it. What was it?


    The ability to remainposed! His unwavering loyalty to Zhong Shan allowed him to maintain hisposure.


    Over the years, Shuijing had busied himself with the affairs of Grand Zhong, but he had long epted the Sage King''s death. Shui Wuhen, however, had remained steadfast in his loyalty, disying not just self-cultivation but an innate nature.


    Shuijing had failed to remainposed regarding the Sage King''s death, allowing his son to seek other paths. Shui Wuhen, however, had always maintained his resolve, never wavering!


    "Why? Sage King, I finally understand!" Shuijing smiled bitterly.


    "Husband?" Liu Yanyan asked curiously.


    "Shui Wuhen, I am not your equal," Shuijing sighed deeply but with a serene smile.


    "Father? What''s going on?" Shui Jiang asked in surprise.


    "Jiang''er!" Shuijing suddenly turned to Shui Jiang.


    "Yes?"


    "Execute those enemy envoys at the South Gate tomorrow!" Shuijing''s eyes shed with determination.


    "What? Father, execute them? But wouldn''t that offend the Taiji Sacred Court?" Shui Jiang was shocked.


    "I want you to execute them. Both you and I made a mistake once; we cannot err again. Execute them at the South Gate tomorrow to dere our resolve!" Shuijing said solemnly.


    "Dere our resolve? But... but...!"


    "No buts. From tomorrow on, you are to stay at home and are forbidden from interacting with enemy dynasties. If you do, I will break your legs!" Shuijing stated firmly.


    Shui Jiang could not believe how quickly his father had changed his stance. What had caused such a sudden transformation?


    "Father, what''s happening? Please tell me, where did I go wrong?" Shui Jiang pleaded.


    "The Sage King is fine. He foresaw this day before he left. Everything is within his calctions. Hahaha, I fancied myself a genius in calctions, but there are things that calctions cannot epass!" Shuijingughed bitterly.


    "Father?" Shui Jiang looked at his father, worried.


    "Prince Zichen? Prince Zichen is deserving. Sage King, I, Shuijing, have learned my lesson!" Shuijing bowed slightly in the direction of the imperial pce.


    Then, turning to Liu Yanyan, Shuijing said, "It seems I am not infallible after all."


    "In my heart, you are," Liu Yanyanforted, shaking her head.


    Shuijing shook his head, "I am not. The Sage King is! I almost went down the wrong path. When the Sage King returns, we will all go to apologize to him."


    "Yes," Liu Yanyan nodded gently.


    Meanwhile, Shui Jiang was utterly confused, not understanding what had just happened. What was going on? Why had his father changed so suddenly?


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 965: Storm Brewing

    <h4>Chapter 965: Storm Brewing</h4>


    The next day, the court session resumed as usual. The reports of defeat continued to pour in, and yet again, two officials were missing. The usual flurry of troublesome matters persisted. However, the court ministers noticed something different about Prince Zichen, the Prime Minister, and the General.


    Although they couldn''t pinpoint what had changed, the ministers felt that the trio''s gazes were sharper, their resolve towards Grand Zhong stronger. It might have been just a feeling, but it was a contagious one, instilling a newfound determination in the hearts of the ministers, recing their previous despondency with firm resolve.


    After the court session, Prince Zichen unusually invited the Prime Minister and the General for a banquet. Typically, Lin Xiao was too busy with the imperial guards to attend, and rarely epted such invitations. This time, however, he agreed without hesitation. Shuijing, usually preupied with his duties and feeling a sense of injustice, would normally decline Shui Wuhen''s invitations. Yet now, he epted without any reservations.


    The gathering of the three giants of Grand Zhong symbolized a unified front against their enemies, boosting the confidence of all the ministers.


    Minister of War Lang Zhen and others with ulterior motives watched this scene with slight astonishment.


    "My lord?" A member of the Ministry of War looked at Lang Zhen.


    "Something''s off, something''s definitely off!" Lang Zhen frowned.


    No official standing in the Longevity Hall was a simple character. Even disregarding their dispositions, the fact that Lang Zhen could irritate Lin Xiao to frustration spoke volumes.


    Sensing something amiss, Lang Zhen immediately ryed the information.


    In a town not far from Lingxiao Heavenly Court, a mansion was heavily guarded by numerous strong cultivators. Inside the central hall, people stood on either side, while a man in a purple robe studied arge projected map.


    The projection detailed the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, every building meticulously depicted except for a few blurred areas��Grand Zhong''s restricted zones. Such detailed maps were only avable to the most trusted officials of Grand Zhong, indicating the presence of an insider.


    The man in the purple robe had a slightly sallowplexion and some wrinkles on his forehead, but his eyes were exceptionally sharp. After studying the map, he exhaled deeply.


    "Lingxiao Heavenly Court is truly filled with killing formations. I''ve never seen such a meticulously designed capital. Even the houses are linked into formations. What a master of formations!" the man in purple eximed.


    Admiring the craftsmanship, the man suddenly brightened up, "I''ve decided. After this campaign against Grand Zhong, I want nothing as a reward but this Lingxiao Heavenly Court! It''s perfect!"


    "Your Highness, is Lingxiao Heavenly Court really that impressive? If you like it so much, you can have someone build a replica," a man in green robes stepped forward from the ranks.


    "You don''t understand! Lingxiao Heavenly Court is unique, irreplicable. Itsplexity rivals that of ancient celestial artifacts," the purple-robed man shook his head.


    "Uh!" The green-robed man was momentarily taken aback.


    "But even so, there''s no need for Your Highness to personally engage in this campaign against Grand Zhong. Our Taiji Sacred Court has countless capable individuals. Grand Zhong is on the brink of copse; it can be destroyed in an instant without Your Highness''s intervention," the green-robed man continued.


    The purple-robed prince nced at him and shook his head, "Do you understand the current situation?"


    "Uh?"


    "The entire Fengzhong Territory is undergoing a massive reshuffle. The Three Great Dojos and the Four Great Sacred Courts��Snake Empress Dojo has been annihted, Ran Deng Buddha has faced continuous misfortunes over the years and has left Fengzhong Territory with his entire dojo. Only Zixiao Dojo remains steadfast. Taoyuan Sacred Court is destroyed! Grand Zhong Sacred Court is on the verge of destruction. Taichu Sacred Court is embroiled in internal strife and constant warfare. Only our Taiji Sacred Court remains rtively stable!"


    "The Fengzhong Territory is undergoing a massive reshuffle, and the Sage King is racing against time. Once Qingqiu stabilizes, it will be difficult for us to seize Grand Zhong. Grand Zhong is essential for us because it can serve as a springboard for attacking the Taichu Sacred Court. Once we have this springboard, we can choke Taichu''s throat," the purple-robed prince stated confidently.


    "The Sage King ns to control the entire Fengzhong Territory?" The green-robed man''s eyes lit up.


    Indeed, once Grand Zhong is secured, no matter how chaotic Taichu Sacred Court bes, it will be greatly weakened. With the strength of the Taiji Sacred Court, defeating Taichu would not be difficult. Once Taichu is eliminated, there will be no otherpeting dynasties in Fengzhong Territory, allowing Taiji to unify the entire region.


    "However, Grand Zhong is not simple," the purple-robed prince narrowed his eyes.


    "Just a group of celestial beings!" The green-robed man retorted.


    "A group of celestial beings? Without fortune and without Zhong Shan, Grand Zhong has still held on for five years! Could you do that?" The purple-robed prince red.


    "This!" The green-robed man hesitated.


    "Grand Zhong''s three heroes are unparalleled. Such talents are only restrained by Grand Zhong. If they join Taiji, they will undoubtedly rise to high ranks!" The prince dered.


    Everyone gasped. Were these three truly so formidable?


    "Is that why the prince paused the conquest of Grand Zhong and extended goodwill towards them?" The green-robed man asked.


    "Correct. We must capture Grand Zhong and, more importantly, win over these three individuals. I''ve shown enough sincerity; they won''t escape!" The prince said confidently.


    "Report!"


    A scout suddenly rushed in.


    "What is it?"


    "Urgent news from Lingxiao Heavenly Court, please review it, Your Highness!" The scout said.


    The prince grabbed the jade slip and read it carefully. His expression changed swiftly.


    "Your Highness, what''s wrong?"


    "Something''s off, something''s very off. How could this happen?" The prince frowned.


    "Has something gone wrong?" The green-robed man asked again.


    "A major issue has arisen. The three have undergone a significant change in disposition. How could this be? I nned this for so long��it was an unbeatable strategy. What went wrong? Who has the ability to alter their minds like this?" The prince said incredulously.


    He handed the jade slip to the others, but they couldn''t discern anything unusual.


    "A banquet? What''s unusual about the three giants of Grand Zhong having a banquet? It seems normal," someone remarked.


    Ignoring them, the prince paced the hall, deep in thought.


    "Someone disrupted my n. Who could it be? This can''t be happening. How could their resolve strengthen? Zhong Shan is dead; thest thing they should have is faith in him. It doesn''t make sense!"


    "The three united are now difficult to divide and even harder to conquer."


    "Is there a higher power in Grand Zhong? Is this some kind of anomaly?"


    The prince''s brows furrowed deeply. No one had ever seen him so serious. In everyone''s mind, the prince was a master strategist, second only to the Sage King in the Taiji Sacred Court. What had gone wrong?


    After an hour, the prince finally settled down, rubbing his temples as he looked at the others. "It seems my n haspletely failed. We have no choice but to use force."


    "Is the prince finally nning to attack Lingxiao Heavenly Court?"


    "Not attack��confine!" The prince''s eyes narrowed.


    "Confine?"


    "Lingxiao Heavenly Court cannot be destroyed. If it falls, Grand Zhong will scatter like sand, and other dynasties will scramble for territory. Taiji will gain little. I want the bulk of Grand Zhong''snds."


    "How should we proceed?"


    The purple-robed prince looked calmly at the group before him. They were far inferior to the three giants of Grand Zhong, but he still needed to exin his n clearly to prevent any misunderstandings during execution.


    "Zhong Shan of Grand Zhong was indeed a remarkable figure throughout history. He once orchestrated a ssic battle in the underworld of the small thousand world, establishing a foundation with no losses. This is precisely what I intend to replicate."


    "What?"


    "Seize the emperor to control the vassals!"


    "Seize the emperor to control the vassals?"


    "We will ''confine Lingxiao Heavenly Court tomand Grand Zhong!''"


    "Understood!"��


    A few dayster, at Lingxiao Heavenly Court, just before the morning court session.


    At the residence of Lang Zhen, Minister of War, in a side hall, Lang Zhen nodded and said, "Ry the message to Prince Qiming. Rest assured, we willplete the mission today!"


    Prince Qiming was the purple-robed prince from the Taiji Sacred Court, scheming against Grand Zhong near Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Clearly, the n was now in motion.


    Lang Zhen left his residence and, along with other officials, entered the imperial pce and proceeded to Longevity Hall for the morning court session.


    As the session began, the ministers stood on either side.


    Lin Xiao and Shuijing stood at the forefront of their respective rows, looking solemnly at Shui Wuhen.


    With their burdens lifted, the three giants of Grand Zhong were now more dedicated than ever.


    "Very well. Seeing all my colleagues from yesterday here today reassures me. Rest assured, today''s waiting and persistence will be rewarded. When the Sage King returns, you will all be honored as heroes of Grand Zhong!" Shui Wuhen dered.


    This was a routine speech. Every day, Shui Wuhen reassured the ministers to maintain the stability of the political center. Only with the stability of Lingxiao Heavenly Court could the cities within Grand Zhong hold firm.


    Although reports of defeats continued toe in, the cities that had not yet faced battle still remained loyal to Grand Zhong, and no one had acted independently.


    "General!" Shui Wuhen called.


    "Present!" Lin Xiao responded.


    "What are the battle reports from the four fronts today?" Shui Wuhen inquired.


    This was a daily report. Despite the reports being of defeats, concealing them would only cause more panic. Even though they were defeat reports, the ministers felt that the situation was still under control.


    "As of the hour of the ox today, the gates of Wushuang City in the south have been breached. It is currently in fiercebat, and it is unlikely we can reim it. Within three days, Wushuang City will be lost!" Lin Xiao sighed.


    Shui Wuhen nodded. The court fell into a somber silence. Wushuang City was where the Sage King first gained prominence in Shenzhou. It was also a southern stronghold. Losing Wushuang City would iste at least five other cities, cutting off their support.


    "General, are you still stubbornly refusing to see the truth?"


    At this moment, Lang Zhen suddenly stepped forward, ring at Lin Xiao.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 966: Return of the King

    <h4>Chapter 966: Return of the King</h4>


    "General, are you still stubbornly refusing to see the truth?" Lang Zhen suddenly stepped forward, ring directly at Lin Xiao.


    Confrontations between Lang Zhen and Lin Xiao usually urred in private, but for Lang Zhen to challenge Lin Xiao in front of the entire court was unprecedented, signaling a decisive rupture.


    Lin Xiao turned to face Lang Zhen. "Stubbornly refusing? Minister of War, remember your position and consider the consequences before you speak!" Lin Xiao''s eyes shed with anger.


    "Consequences? I cannot tolerate your actions any longer. The fate of Grand Zhong is about to be destroyed by your hands. Losing Wushuang City is your fault. If you hadn''t clung to the imperial guards, would this have happened? Youck the capability but hold onto military power and the military seal. You are a traitor to Grand Zhong!" Lang Zhen shouted.


    "Hand over the military seal, General!" Twenty officials suddenly stepped forward, demanding.


    Lin Xiao''s eyes narrowed, a cold glint in them. "Are you truly thinking of Grand Zhong''s welfare?" Lin Xiao asked icily.


    "Our hearts are as clear as the moon; we are eternally loyal to Grand Zhong. Lin Xiao, surrender the military seal, and Grand Zhong can still be saved!" Lang Zhen urged again.


    "Hand over the military seal, General!" Nearly thirty officials echoed.


    Was this a coup against Lin Xiao? The remaining officials in the court were silent, each filled with uncertainty. What was happening?


    "Hahahahaha!" Lin Xiaoughed heartily.


    "What more do you have to say, General?" Lang Zhen asked confidently, as if he had already won.


    "Has everyone forgotten the Sage King''sst words?" Lin Xiao said gravely.


    Hearing this, Lang Zhen''s face changed, as did those of the thirty officials.


    "The Sage King hoped for an eternal Grand Zhong. Therefore, he made arrangements for the future of Grand Zhong. Remember, today''s arrangements are the highest decree. No matter what happens, no one is allowed to vite it. Anyone who dares will be treated as a traitor!"��


    "This is the highest decree. No matter what happens, no one is allowed to vite it. Anyone who dares will be treated as a traitor!" Lin Xiao roared.


    At this shout, several of the officials who had stepped forward visibly trembled.


    "Guards, arrest these traitors!" Lin Xiaomanded.


    "Yes!" A chorus of voices from the guards outside the hall responded immediately.


    Lang Zhen''s face changed, not because of Lin Xiao''s words, but because of the people outside.


    Tiger Warriors and Turtle Serpents? The elite of various ns, the strongest forces of Grand Zhong?


    In an instant, Lang Zhen realized the truth. Lin Xiao had nned this, exposing the traitors deliberately?


    Without a moment''s hesitation, Lang Zhen shouted, "Escape!"


    The thirty officials were already panicked. Following Lang Zhen''s lead, they all fled immediately.


    "Whoosh!" In an instant, the thirty-one officials vanished from sight.


    The remaining officials were stunned, filled with surprise. They knew the situation was tense, but not to the extent ofmitting treason and fleeing?


    "Colleagues!" Shui Wuhen called out, drawing everyone''s attention back.


    "Grand Zhong has ferreted out traitors, thanks to the General. This is a cause for celebration!" Shui Wuhen announced.


    The ministers were momentarily taken aback, but the atmosphere quickly shifted from tension to relief, appreciating Lin Xiao''s decisive action in maintaining the integrity of Grand Zhong.


    Just as the court was absorbing this development, the grand doors of the hall swung open, revealing amanding figure dressed in royal attire, emanating a powerful aura. Gasps of astonishment echoed through the hall as everyone recognized the imposing presence.


    It was the Sage King, Zhong Shan, returning against all odds.


    "The King has returned!" An official eximed, falling to his knees in reverence.


    One by one, the ministers followed suit, their faces a mix of disbelief and joy. The return of the Sage King heralded a new hope and an end to the turmoil that had gued Grand Zhong.


    Zhong Shan stepped forward, his voice resonating through the hall, "Rise, my loyal subjects. Today, we reim the glory of Grand Zhong!"


    With the return of their revered leader, a renewed sense of purpose and unity swept through the ranks, ready to face whatever challengesy ahead.


    After Shui Wuhen finished speaking, the ministers frowned in concern. An elderly minister stepped forward.


    "General, the state is in peril. Lang Zhen and the other officials may have acted out of impulse, but their intentions were for the sake of Grand Zhong. Their crime does not warrant death. I implore you to show leniency!" the elder minister pleaded.


    Lin Xiao looked at him without anger, nodding slightly. "Minister of Rites, your dedication to the country ismendable. However, this matter is far from simple."


    "Oh?"


    "Everyone, follow me outside, and you will understand," Lin Xiao said earnestly.


    These loyal ministers of Grand Zhong deserved respect. Although theycked the brilliance to dominate the court, their loyalty was a hundred times stronger than those so-called ''talents''.


    While many believed Zhong Shan to be dead, these ministers remained steadfast in their belief that he lived and stood by Grand Zhong through thick and thin. Such individuals were the most precious asset of Grand Zhong.


    "Oh? Is there more to this?" Some ministers showed surprise, while others seemed to have an inkling.


    Shui Wuhen, Shuijing, and Lin Xiao walked out of the hall slowly.


    Outside the hall, Lang Zhen and the group of officials were surrounded by a group of elite warriors, the strongest Grand Zhong had to offer. Lang Zhen had no escape.


    "Lang Zhen, you might as well surrender," Shui Wuhen said calmly.


    "Surrender? Hahaha!" Lang Zhenughed.


    At that moment, a signal re shot up into the sky in the distance.


    "Whoosh!" The re zed brilliantly.


    Lang Zhen''s eyes lit up, and he secretly exhaled in relief.


    "The ones who should surrender are you. Now, Lingxiao Heavenly Court is under my control. All the strongholds are manned by my people. Why don''t you surrender?" Lang Zhenughed.


    "Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!"


    Suddenly, thousands of soldiers soared into the air around Longevity Hall, each armed with longbows aimed directly at the hall.


    "How did they break the pce''s formation? How did they get in?" the Minister of Rites eximed.


    "How did they get in? Naturally, the ones guarding the formation are now my people! Hahahaha!" Lang Zhenughed.


    "Lang Zhen, all of you have trulymitted treason!" Shui Wuhen said with a hint of regret in his eyes.


    Lang Zhen had been an acquaintance since their time in the small thousand world. Rising to the position of Minister of War was no small feat, yet now, formerrades stood against each other in battle.


    "Treason? What country? Now, Lingxiao Heavenly Court is entirely under my control. Those who understand the times are wise. Grand Zhong is no more. You should join me in the Taiji Sacred Court!" Lang Zhenughed triumphantly.


    "Is that so?" Lin Xiao retorted coldly.


    "Lin Xiao, hand over the military seal, and I will overlook your past actions. If you refuse, then your family..." Lang Zhen threatened with a sinister smile, clearly intending to use Lin Xiao''s family as leverage.


    "Take them down. They are beyond redemption," Shui Wuhen ordered, shaking his head.


    Yin Luori and the others nodded, preparing to act.


    "What? Are you looking for death?" Lang Zhen shouted.


    He waved his hand, signaling the ten thousand soldiers in the air to attack. However, the soldiers slowly descended instead. Lang Zhen''s eyes widened. Did he signal incorrectly?


    Confused and shocked, Lang Zhen looked around in disbelief as his soldiers seemingly ignored hismand. The reality began to dawn on him.


    Before Lang Zhen could react, the elite warriors of Grand Zhong moved swiftly, apprehending him and his aplices with practiced precision.


    "You...you betrayed us!" Lang Zhen stammered, realization hitting him like a ton of bricks.


    "The loyalty of our people cannot be bought, Lang Zhen," Shui Wuhen said solemnly.


    At that moment, the grand doors of the hall swung open again, and amanding figure dressed in royal attire stepped in, exuding a powerful aura. Gasps of astonishment echoed through the hall as everyone recognized the imposing presence.


    It was the Sage King, Zhong Shan, returning against all odds.


    "The King has returned!" An official eximed, falling to his knees in reverence.


    One by one, the ministers followed suit, their faces a mix of disbelief and joy. The return of the Sage King heralded a new hope and an end to the turmoil that had gued Grand Zhong.


    Zhong Shan stepped forward, his voice resonating through the hall, "Rise, my loyal subjects. Today, we reim the glory of Grand Zhong!"


    With the return of their revered leader, a renewed sense of purpose and unity swept through the ranks, ready to face whatever challengesy ahead.


    "Kill them, kill them!" Lang Zhen screamed.


    But the soldiers seemed to ignore him, flying away as if they hadn''t heard a word. The thirty-one officials stared in disbelief.


    "How could this be? How could this be?" Lang Zhen muttered.


    "It''s over, Lang Zhen. All your spies in Lingxiao Heavenly Court have been rooted out, including the Taiji envoys in your residence. It''s unfortunate that it hase to this, but thew of thend is supreme. Traitors will face the execution of their entire n. Your nine ns have already been beheaded; only you remain!" Shui Wuhen shook his head.


    "It shouldn''t be like this, it shouldn''t be like this!" Lang Zhen said in disbelief.


    The other thirty officials looked equally grim.


    "Fight them to the death!" Lang Zhen shouted.


    "Fight!" The thirty officials, desperate, charged at Yin Luori and the others.


    But Lang Zhen took advantage of the chaos, quickly fleeing backward.


    "Escape? Where do you think you''re going?"


    Suddenly, a figure appeared before Lang Zhen: Gui She, the Supreme of the Xuanwu n.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    A fierce battle erupted in front of Longevity Hall. The intense fight lit up the sky with dazzling brilliance. All of Lingxiao Heavenly Court watched the direction of the pce.


    The battle raged from morning until evening. The thirty officials were all killed on the spot, leaving only Lang Zhen struggling bitterly.


    Lang Zhen, covered in blood and filled with anger, did not regret his actions. With Zhong Shan dead, Grand Zhong held no significance for him. He just couldn''t believe how vignt Prince Zichen and the others were. How did they know today was the day of the coup?


    How could they possibly know?


    The remaining officials watched coldly, none pleading for the traitors. After hours of battle, their loyalty to Grand Zhong only deepened.


    "Well, isn''t this interesting?"


    A leisurely voice suddenly echoed.


    The sudden voice, imbued with a mesmerizing quality, caught everyone''s attention. They looked up, startled, to see a dozen figures in the sky.


    At the forefront was a man in a purple robe, with subordinates behind him. The purple-robed man wore a mocking smile, while his followers exuded an air of arrogance, looking down on those below.


    "Prince Qiming, you''ve finally arrived!" Lang Zhen called out in joy.


    "Prince Qiming of the Taiji Sacred Court?" Shui Wuhen said coldly.


    Thebatants quickly gathered around Shui Wuhen and the others, ready to defend.


    "Even better than I imagined. The three giants of Grand Zhong! Not one missing? And you rooted out all the spies? It seems Lang Zhen truly pales inparison to you!" Prince Qiming said, nodding.


    Lang Zhen''s face turned grim at Prince Qiming''s words.


    "Prince, I��" Lang Zhen began, but was cut off.


    "What do you have to say? I told you to seize the military seal, and yet you failed. You sacrificed all your subordinates and family for nothing. A waste! Even if you join Taiji, you will still be useless. The Taiji Sacred Court does not ept ipetents!" Prince Qiming said coldly.


    "Prince, you promised me, you promised me!" Lang Zhen cried out in desperation, unable to believe the betrayal.


    "Get lost!" Prince Qiming said coldly.


    "Boom!"


    A subordinate of Qiming struck Lang Zhen, sending him crashing into the ground below, creating arge pit in the za of Longevity Hall.


    Lang Zhen''s abandonment by Prince Qiming brought a sense of satisfaction to the officials of Grand Zhong��this was the retribution for a traitor! Lang Zheny in the pit, looking up at Prince Qiming in disbelief. How could this happen? It felt as if his world had turned upside down.


    "Zhong Shan is dead. Shui Wuhen, Shuijing, Lin Xiao, I ask you once more, will you join the Taiji Sacred Court?" Prince Qiming asked seriously.


    "Hahaha, Prince Qiming, why do you even bother asking? You just beat a loyal Taiji follower into the ground. What chance do we have of survival if we join you?" Shui Wuhen retorted sarcastically.


    This sarcasm included Lang Zhen, who felt a heavy blow to his chest, while the faces of Qiming''s followers darkened. Only Qiming himself remainedposed.


    "Seal!" Prince Qimingmanded.


    Suddenly, a massive blue dome appeared, enveloping Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The sudden change caused many in Lingxiao Heavenly Court to look around in shock. Some tried to fly up but were immediately sted back down by the blue dome.


    "Don''t bother trying to escape. This is an ancient celestial artifact. It allows entry but no exit!" Prince Qiming said with a smirk.


    Shui Wuhen narrowed his eyes. They were trapped in Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "I don''t want to waste words with you. I know you''re stubborn. I''ll leave it to the Sage King to handle you. I''m giving you three days. Surrender the military seal, the prime minister''s seal, and Prince Zichen''s seal! If you do, I won''t harm Lingxiao Heavenly Court at all. Think it over!" Prince Qiming said, then disappeared with his subordinates.


    Sealing Lingxiao Heavenly Court?


    The three giants of Grand Zhong exchanged nces, understanding Qiming''s intentions. Grand Zhong''s control rested with these three items, which allowed them tomand the military and issue decrees. Surrendering these to Qiming was out of the question.


    Longevity Hall fell silent.


    Three days passed quickly. Prince Qiming returned with his entourage, forceful as ever.


    In the za, the ministers faced him resolutely. During these three days, they had settled their affairs and now stood with Shui Wuhen, ready to face their enemies.


    "What loyalty Zhong Shan has inspired��so many willing to die for him!" Prince Qiming remarked in awe.


    He knew that even if he were the Sage King, he wouldn''t have inspired such loyalty.


    "Have you made your decision?" Prince Qiming asked.


    Shui Wuhen and the others stared back coldly.


    "Three days have passed. The imperial guards must be in chaos by now. And without word from you, the other cities must be panicking. If you don''t give me the seals, Grand Zhong will fall within half a month!" Prince Qiming said confidently.


    "Are you referring to these?" Shui Wuhen said suddenly.


    Prince Zichen produced his seal, Lin Xiao his military seal, and Shuijing the prime minister''s seal.


    "Impressive. I didn''t expect you to actually..." Prince Qiming began to say.


    "Boom!"


    The military seal, the royal seal, and the prime minister''s seal exploded into pieces, destroyed by the three men.


    "You!" Prince Qiming shouted in fury.


    "Hahahaha! Prince Qiming, the Taiji Sacred Court truly holds us in high regard, sending an ancient celestial to confront Grand Zhong. We may not be able to save Grand Zhong, but we will never betray it. We stand with Grand Zhong!" Shui Wuhenughed heartily.


    Prince Qiming''s face darkened. His primary goal was to secure most of Grand Zhong''s territory, and secondarily, to win over these three talents. With the seals destroyed, the Taiji Sacred Court would gain only a fraction of the anticipated benefits.


    "You''re courting death!" Prince Qiming raged.


    "The Sage King will avenge us. We stand with Grand Zhong!" Shui Wuhen dered.


    "We stand with Grand Zhong!" The civil and military officials echoed, their voices resonating through the heavens. The cry reverberated across Lingxiao Heavenly Court, moving the popce to tears.


    "Sage King, where are you? Pleasee back!" The people cried in their hearts, their fists clenched, filled with anger and determination.


    "Fine, since you all wish for death, you leave me no choice. Men, kill all the officials except Shui Wuhen, Shuijing, and Lin Xiao. Kill them all!" Prince Qimingmanded, his wrath boiling over.


    The atmosphere grew tense as Lin Xiao, Shui Wuhen, and Shuijing each drew their respective treasures.


    Seeing their stance, Prince Qiming closed his eyes momentarily, taking a deep breath. "Kill them all. We don''t need to keep these three alive anymore!"


    Recognizing the resolute defiance of the three men, Prince Qiming knew they could never be subdued. He brought the might of ancient celestials, capable of ughtering Grand Zhong''s officials.


    "Leave no one alive. Kill!" Prince Qiming''s shout seemed to seal the fate of everyone before Longevity Hall. Even Lang Zhen, lying in the pit, felt a vicious thrill at the prospect of everyone''s demise.


    "Who dares to kill my loyal subjects?"


    The voice, like a thunderp out of nowhere, echoed across Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Prince Qiming''s face changed as he looked westward. A small ck dot was rapidly approaching the court.


    Too far, yet too fast!


    Before the figure arrived, a terrifying gust of wind swept through.


    "Boom!"


    The wind sted around Longevity Hall, sending debris flying. In the aftermath, a ck-robed figure stood in the za.


    "Who dares to kill my loyal subjects?"


    Upon hearing this voice, the people of Lingxiao Heavenly Court froze. Then, a wave of tion spread throughout.


    "Is it?"


    "That''s the Sage King''s voice! The Sage King''s voice!"


    "The Sage King has returned, the Sage King has returned!"


    "Long live the Sage King!"


    "May the Sage King enjoy eternal fortune and live as long as the heavens!"


    The entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court erupted in celebration. People trembled with excitement, tears streaming down their faces as they bowed towards the pce.


    At Longevity Hall, the officials who had prepared to die for Grand Zhong now looked up in awe. They had resolved to face death, ready toy down their lives for their country. The Sage King''s return felt like a miracle.


    In the face of death, the officials'' resolve was steadfast, inspired by the loyalty and sacrifice for Grand Zhong. Now, the Sage King''s voice ignited a new fervor.


    As the wind subsided, the ministers saw a familiar, towering figure.


    "The Sage King!"


    Those who had faced death without shedding a tear now wept openly, dropping to their knees.


    Lin Xiao, Shui Wuhen, and Shuijing trembled with emotion, breathing deeply to steady their overwhelming feelings.


    "The Sage King is truly alive. The Sage King has returned. The Sage King of Grand Zhong is back!" The officials proimed, their voices filled with joyous disbelief and immense relief.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 967: The Zhongshan Effect

    <h4>Chapter 967: The Zhongshan Effect</h4>


    In the realm of the living, before the Hall of Longevity in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court!


    At the most critical moment, a roar echoed, followed by a gust of wind, and Zhongshan appeared in the grand za. With his own body, he shielded the ministers of Great Zheng, standing as a barrier against all the crises threatening the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    At that moment, cheers of "Long live the Holy King!" erupted from all directions of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. The entire capital was in a frenzy, with voices resounding to the heavens.


    In the za of the Hall of Longevity, officials wept tears of joy, continuously bowing in reverence to the Holy King. Their hearts surged with emotion and relief. After five long years, everything had been worth it. They had been right all along��the Holy King had returned!


    After paying their respects to Zhongshan, the ministers fell silent, casting hateful nces at the group of great immortals and the ancient immortal King Qiming. Zhongshan was like the backbone of everyone present. With his arrival, all fear dissipated.


    In the distance, Lang Zhen, the injured Minister of War,y in arge pit, staring in disbelief at Zhongshan. His mind was in turmoil, a sense of the sky falling weighing heavily on him.


    Zhongshan wasn''t dead? He really wasn''t dead? Lang Zhen''s chest heaved as his mind spiraled into chaos. Seeing Zhongshan, he glimpsed the future of Great Zheng. Had the fate of Great Zhenge to an end? No, Great Zheng was truly beginning to boil with life.


    Reflecting on his actions over the years��rebellion, treason, defecting to the enemy, only to fail��Lang Zhen began tough maniacally, a crazed expression on his face.


    "Haha, hahaha, the Holy King has returned, the Holy King has returned!" Lang Zhenughed hysterically, his emotions unstable. Under the constant assault of reality, the former Minister of War had be a madman,ughing and crying intermittently, his mindpletely shattered.


    At this point, no one paid attention to Lang Zhen. Whether in the eyes of King Qiming or the ministers of Great Zheng, he was already a dead man with no chance of survival. Madness wouldn''t absolve him of his sins.


    Zhongshan stood proudly at the forefront, his eyes like lightning, ring directly at King Qiming in the sky.


    King Qiming''s expression fluctuated, his face twitching. Alive��Zhongshan was still alive? How was this possible?


    After ring at the enemies in the sky, Zhongshan looked back at his ministers.


    "My beloved subjects, you''ve endured much. I''ve returnedte!" Zhongshan said.


    "It''s our duty!"


    "It''s what we should do!"


    "This old servant knew the Holy King would return!"


    The ministers were so overwhelmed with emotion that they spoke incoherently, but Zhongshan didn''t me them. These were the most precious ministers of Great Zheng.


    Lin Xiao, Shuijing, and Shui Wuhen all had glints of excitement in their eyes. Zhongshan cast a nce of trust and gratitude toward them. For these three, nothing more needed to be said. Just seeing Zhongshan''s gaze made them feel that all the grievances of the past five years were worth it.


    After calming the ministers, Zhongshan looked up at the sky, where a massive blue barrier loomed.


    His eyes narrowed, and he let out a faintmand, "Come out!"


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    Suddenly, two earth-shattering dragon roars erupted from Zhongshan''s body. The sound overwhelmed the voices of everyone in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, sending powerful sound waves soaring into the sky.


    A massive burst of golden light erupted from Zhongshan''s body, turning the entire Lingxiao Heavenly Court into a dazzling golden spectacle. The blinding light pierced through the blue barrier, dyeing the sky for a million miles in golden hues.


    <strong>Two colossal golden dragons suddenly emerged from Zhongshan''s body��both were neen-wed fortune dragons, a manifestation of Great Zheng''s destiny!</strong>


    The fortune dragons soared into the sky, piercing through the blue barrier. Instantly, a fierce wind swept through the surroundings of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, as an infinite amount of golden energy began converging from all directions.


    Fortune��endless fortune��along with immeasurable virtue, began to gather once more over thends of Great Zheng. The destiny and virtue of Great Zheng''s territories reassembled, rebuilding the sky''s fortune with an overwhelming momentum that reached the heavens!


    "Long live Great Zheng! Long live the Holy King!"


    Cheers erupted from all directions.


    <strong>Below the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, in the Imperial Guard Camp:</strong>


    Three days had passed without a single message from the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Meanwhile, the court had suddenly been enveloped by a blue barrier, causing confusion and unrest among many of the Imperial Guards. Discussions grew rampant, and morale began to waver. However, without the military seal or orders, no one dared to leave the camp, though a few had deserted.


    Themanders were helpless, sighing in despair��was Great Zheng truly doomed?


    Just as their spirits wavered and the generals despaired, two earth-shaking dragon roars echoed through the air, reaching everyone''s ears.


    All heads turned skyward. The sky had once again been painted in golden hues.


    "Fortune! That''s Great Zheng''s fortune!" amander suddenly shouted.


    "Great Zheng''s fortune, Great Zheng''s virtue��they''ve returned, everything has returned!" another soldier cried out.


    "Great Zheng, long live Great Zheng!"


    "Long live Great Zheng!"


    The reappearance of fortune felt like an injection of adrenaline to all the soldiers. Their previously restless hearts calmed downpletely! Great Zheng still stood��Great Zheng would live forever!


    All the soldiers regained their former pride, erupting into joyous celebrations.


    As the infinite fortune gathered, the iconic dual dragon roar of Great Zheng once again resounded through the heavens and echoed in the hearts of all its citizens.


    <strong>"People of Great Zheng, I, Zhongshan, have returned��������������������������������!"</strong>


    Zhongshan dered loudly. This wasn''t just a message for the citizens of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court but for every citizen of Great Zheng. At that moment, every single person of Great Zheng heard Zhongshan''s voice, brimming with vigor.


    All who heard Zhongshan''s voice felt a surge of powerful confidence in their hearts��


    <strong>In the southern region of Great Zheng''s Holy Court, Wushuang City:</strong>


    Wushuang City, a small world, was Zhongshan''s first stop upon entering Shenzhou, where he helped Shui Wuhen''s father secure the position of City Lord, marking Zhongshan''s first disy of his formidable presence.


    Because of Zhongshan, Wushuang City became incredibly famous. In the center of the city stood a massive statue of Zhongshan, the pride of all its citizens! Wushuang City''s poption skyrocketed, reaching over 40 million, making it one of thergest cities in Great Zheng.


    However, three days ago, the southern gate of Wushuang City was suddenly breached!


    Themander of the city''s defenses was Lin Ao, the eldest son of Lin Xiao.


    Though Lin Ao had yet to reach the level of military brilliance his father possessed, he was still far superior in strategypared to many othermanders. For three days and nights, Lin Ao hadn''t slept, tirelessly directing the city''s defenses.


    "First Battalion, Sixteenth Battalion, and Twenty-Fourth Battalion, all head to the southern gate! Hold the enemy at bay!"


    <strong>"General, bad news! The northern gate has fallen!"</strong>


    "What? How could the northern gate fall? That gate is the sturdiest��how is it possible?"


    "The wall copsed��we couldn''t hold it. The walls of Wushuang City have fallen, and once the great formation was broken, we couldn''t stop them!"


    <strong>"Great Zheng is doomed! Surrender and you shall be spared!"</strong>


    <strong>"Great Zheng is doomed! Surrender and you shall be spared!"</strong>


    Cries from the enemy forces echoed from all directions.


    Battle had always been the duty of soldiers. Common folk typically didn''t concern themselves with warfare; they only needed to protect their own livelihoods. Generally, the invading forces wouldn''t harm civilians, so the people had little reason to resist��changing dynasties just meant bing citizens under new rulers.


    But as they watched the enemy troops pour into the city, the people of Wushuang City clenched their fists in frustration. Their anger was futile, for soldiers, trained in unifiedbat formations, held immense power��on the battlefield, five hundred soldiers could easily ughter ten thousand civilians of the same rank.


    <strong>"The rise and fall of a nation is the responsibility of every man. I, the emperor, may temporarily leave Great Zheng, but the world shall strive together!"</strong>


    <i>Strive together with the world?</i> The people''s hearts were heavy, for they had deeply embraced Great Zheng and were now filled with intense rejection of the enemy forces.


    As the enemy army charged towards the capital, a man clenched his fists, ready to rush forward.


    "What are you doing, Quan''er?" Another man grabbed him, shaking his head gravely. Rushing out would be suicide!


    Lin Ao''s army, after three days of fierce fighting, slowly gathered at the central za, surrounding the massive statue of Zhongshan.


    The bodies of Great Zheng''s soldiers were strewn everywhere, with the survivors all wounded.


    Wushuang City had been destroyed, and three hundred thousand elite enemy troops surrounded them. Victory or defeat had been decided. Lin Ao and his blood-soaked subordinates stared at the red-robed general who stepped forward.


    "Lin Ao, hahaha, it''s been two years, but I''ve finally conquered Wushuang City! You really didn''t believe it until you saw the coffin, making me lose so many soldiers. Today, I''ll kill you all to honor my fallenrades! As for you, the son of Lin Xiao, capturing you will earn me a promotion!" the red-robed general eximed with excitement.


    "The fall of the city today will be repaid a hundredfold by Great Zheng in the future. If others don''t provoke us, we won''t provoke them. But when the Holy King returns, your dynasty will be annihted!" Lin Ao said, clutching his injured shoulder.


    "The Holy King? Zhongshan? That dead man? Fine, I''ll wait for him to be reborn!"


    "General, Zhongshan might be reborn as a woman!"


    "Hahaha..."


    The enemy soldiers burst into arrogantughter.


    Great Zheng''s soldiers clenched their fists, their eyes bloodshot, while the surrounding civilians watched with tears of humiliation.


    "Wushuang City held out until today because of this Zhongshan statue? It''s your spiritual pir? Men, destroy it!" the red-robed general ordered.


    <strong>"Boom!"</strong>


    Zhongshan''s statue copsed under the attacks of the enemy, and the people of the city gritted their teeth. Anger simmered in their hearts.


    "Holy King!" The people silently cried out in their hearts.


    "The statue of Zhongshan has fallen, and so has Wushuang City!" the red-robed generalughed triumphantly.


    Great Zheng''s remaining soldiers closed their tear-filled eyes, having lost all strength to fight. They could only wait for death in sorrow.


    "Holy King, where are you?"


    <strong>"Roar������������������������������������������������!"</strong>


    <strong>"Roar������������������������������������������������!"</strong>


    Suddenly, all of Great Zheng''s soldiers opened their eyes in disbelief. That sound��so familiar! The dual dragon roars��Great Zheng''s fortune dragons, both roaring at once?


    The soldiers exchanged astonished nces, each seeing the same realization in the others'' eyes. The citizens of the city, too, heard the sound and instinctively looked up.


    <strong>"People of Great Zheng, I, Zhongshan, have returned��������������������������������!"</strong>


    It was the voice of the Holy King.


    "Father, it''s the Holy King��the Holy King''s voice!"


    "The Holy King has returned! Great Zheng has returned!"


    "The Holy King has returned!"


    The citizens of the city cried out in astonishment.


    <strong>At the central za:</strong>


    The red-robed general stood atop the ruins of Zhongshan''s statue, his face full of arrogance. "What''s this? You''ve all opened your eyes��do you still intend to resist?"


    But at that moment, Lin Ao, who was being protected by the remaining soldiers, suddenlyughed��tears mingling with hisughter.


    "The Holy King has returned! Kill the invaders!"


    "Kill!"


    "Kill!"


    "Kill!"


    The forty million citizens of Wushuang City roared in unison.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 968: The Fall of the Taiji Sacred Court

    <h4>Chapter 968: The Fall of the Taiji Sacred Court</h4>


    In front of the Hall of Longevity, Zhongshan released the two true dragons within him, causing an endless flow of fortune to gather once more.


    King Qiming of the Taiji Sacred Court felt his eyelid twitch��something was terribly wrong.


    It really was Zhongshan��there was no mistaking it. Only Zhongshan couldmand the fortune of Great Zheng, and it turned out he was still alive!


    An immortal? Zhongshan?


    What a joke! Was Zhongshan''s power merely that of an immortal? King Qiming hadn''t been to the Nuwa Realm, but he knew full well what had transpired there.


    Just how powerful was Zhongshan?


    In a desperate situation, Zhongshan had summoned the power of the Heavenly Dao, destroyed the plum blossom eyes of Snow Plum Ancestor, shattered the Jiugong Tuitian Turtle Shell Map, destroyed the Snow Plum Sword, and even severed one of Snow Plum Ancestor''s arms. Each piece of information shed through King Qiming''s mind, causing his eyelid to twitch again.


    Ancient immortals may have pride, but that didn''t mean they weren''t afraid of death!


    Yet, at this moment, King Qiming didn''t feel overwhelming fear.


    Because King Qiming knew one thing��though Zhongshan was indeed incredibly powerful, he was still an immortal. Speed would always be his limitation. If King Qiming wanted to escape, Zhongshan couldn''t stop him��unless Zhongshan invoked the full power of Great Zheng and merged with the true dragons. But s, Zhongshan hadn''t done that; instead, he had just released the true dragons from his body upon returning.


    "Zhongshan, the Holy King, I''ve long admired your reputation!" King Qiming said in a deep voice.


    Zhongshan looked at King Qiming coldly and responded indifferently, "Were you the one who just tried to kill my ministers?"


    "Today''s events��tomorrow, the Taiji Holy King will surely provide you with an exnation. But since you''ve just returned, I won''t disturb your reunion with your ministers. Let''s meet on the battlefield tomorrow!" King Qiming said.


    With that, he subtly shifted his body, ready to leave with his subordinates.


    But to his surprise, none of the immortals under hismand moved. Their eyes were vacant, as if they hadn''t understood King Qiming''s intentions.


    King Qiming''s brow furrowed, and a wave of panic surged within him. He could see clearly that Zhongshan hadn''t made a move, yet all his subordinates had been subdued?


    How could this be?


    "Great Zheng is no longer the Great Zheng of the past. This is not a ce where you cane and go as you please!" Zhongshan said in a stern voice.


    King Qiming''s eyelid twitched even more violently. Were his subordinates really being controlled?


    Not only King Qiming, but all the officials in front of the Hall of Longevity were now gazing at Zhongshan with immense admiration. They could see clearly that not a single one of the immortals around King Qiming could move.


    Was the Holy King truly this powerful?


    Panic crept into King Qiming''s heart��this situation was far too bizarre. How had his subordinates been controlled?


    Fearing to stay any longer, he flicked his sleeve and shot towards the distance at high speed.


    <strong>"Boom!"</strong>


    A massive explosion echoed as King Qiming was forced to retreat. The enormous form of Baxie Tianwei suddenly blocked his path. Baxie Tianwei''s ferocity was equally overwhelming, having devoured the Taiji Holy King and Yan Hui within the Nuwa Realm!


    Seeing Baxie Tianwei, King Qiming instinctively backed away, not daring to engage.


    "I told you, since you''vee, you shouldn''t think of leaving!" Zhongshan said once more.


    Zhongshan''s voice carried a chilling undertone.


    "Zhongshan, what do you intend to do?" King Qiming tried to maintain hisposure.


    "Nothing much��just to ''expose your soul to the sun and hang your corpse for the world to see,''" Zhongshan said in a deep, resonant tone.


    Although Zhongshan admired King Qiming''s abilities, he couldn''t let him go. He intended to use King Qiming''s death as a warning to all the powerful figures in the world.


    <strong>To console the ministers of Great Zheng with his death, and to make a clear example of Great Zheng''s justice through his execution!</strong>


    "You dare!" King Qiming eximed in shock.


    "What would I not dare?" Zhongshan replied with a cold smile.


    <strong>"Whoosh!"</strong>


    King Qiming''s body shuddered suddenly, and a chill ran down his spine.


    "A Celestial Demon��it''s a Celestial Demon! Invisible and formless? Is this the Formless Celestial Demon? How could you possibly control a Formless Celestial Demon?" King Qiming cried out in terror.


    "You don''t need to know!" Zhongshan responded coldly.


    The massive form of Baxie Tianwei flickered and appeared beside King Qiming. But King Qiming didn''t dare to sh with Baxie Tianwei; he quickly attempted to flee. However, just as he began his escape, he was forced back in fear, shivering once again. Another Formless Celestial Demon.


    No matter which direction King Qiming turned, it seemed to be filled with Celestial Demons. It was as if the Formless Celestial Demons had sealed off every escape route.


    <strong>"Ah!"</strong>


    King Qiming went mad with fear. How could this be happening?


    The Formless Celestial Demons were invisible and formless,pletely undetectable by sight or spiritual sense. They could only be felt once they had already entered one''s body. Normally, only the masters of Celestial Demon sects could capture and tame a single Formless Celestial Demon, and that alone was a tremendous achievement.


    But what was happening here?


    King Qiming realized with despair that it seemed as though the entire area was filled with Celestial Demons��ten thousand, a hundred thousand, even millions?


    The thought was too terrifying. Everywhere he turned, he sensed Formless Celestial Demons. Just as he forced one demon out of his body, another, or even ten more, would invade.


    It was too horrifying! Was this the ''Celestial Demon Realm''?


    <strong>"Boom!"</strong>


    In a moment of distraction, King Qiming was finally caught by Baxie Tianwei, who wrapped him up in one massive tail. The other tail, tipped with the deadly purple Zhuxian Sword, was poised right in front of King Qiming''s face.


    King Qiming was immobilized!


    Caught in Baxie Tianwei''s grip, King Qiming gave up resisting. He knew full well that he was no match for the formidable Taiji Saint King, who had been devoured by Baxie Tianwei in the Nuwa Realm��so what chance did he stand?


    "Zhongshan, you''d better release me! Otherwise, the Taiji Holy King will march his army here and utterly destroy your Great Zheng!" King Qiming shouted in desperation.


    Now, King Qiming could only rely on the Taiji Sacred Court as his final card.


    "Am I supposed to fear your Taiji Sacred Court? Or are you unaware that the Taiji Sacred Court no longer exists?" Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed as he spoke.


    "What��what do you mean?" King Qiming''s face changed dramatically.


    <strong>In the realm of the living, Zhongshan had returned, the true dragons had emerged, and infinite fortune had gathered once more.</strong>


    In the underworld, at Changjing, in front of the Undying Hall, Zhongshan stood with his ministers, gazing at the sky. Countless streams of fortune filled the entire capital. The dragon roars echoed to the heavens, and the heavy weight that had burdened the ministers'' hearts was finally lifted.


    This was because some of the fortune above Changjing had now enveloped all the ministers, restoring the feeling they had once known.


    At that moment, Yi Yan approached Zhongshan and said, "Holy King, the signal has been sent out!"


    "Good," Zhongshan nodded.


    <strong>In the realm of the living, to the northwest of Fengzhong Territory, not far from the Taiji Sacred Court''s capital:</strong>


    Luo Xingchen, who had been missing for a long time, stood atop a towering mountain. Before himy a life que, which suddenly shattered with a loud crack. Luo Xingchen''s eyes narrowed, shing with a firm resolve.


    <strong>Reaching out, Luo Xingchen drew a longbow and pulled out the most precious Purple Gold Divine Arrow.</strong>


    His gaze was fixed directly on the capital of the Taiji Sacred Court.


    "If the Holy King can severely injure an Ancestor Immortal and survive, then I, Luo Xingchen, with my time-manipting powers, must seed in ambushing an Ancient Immortal. If I fail, I would have no face left to return to the Holy King!" Luo Xingchen muttered to himself.


    <strong>In front of the Hall of Longevity:</strong>


    "What��what do you mean?" King Qiming''s face changed drastically.


    There was something off in Zhongshan''s tone, but what exactly was it?


    <strong>"Buzz!"</strong>


    King Qiming''s body trembled, and his eyes widened in disbelief. "You... my fortune? My fortune? Has the Holy King... died?"


    How could this be? How could the Holy King be dead?


    "Did you kill the Holy King? Was it you?" King Qiming screamed as he stared at Zhongshan.


    Zhongshan didn''t respond to King Qiming anymore; there was no need. The Taiji Sacred Court had already copsed, and with Luo Xingchen there, not even the heirs of the Taiji Sacred Court would survive.


    As for King Qiming before him, a man already destined to die, there was no point in wasting words on him.


    "Tiao!" Zhongshan called out calmly.


    In the distance, a figure flickered and appeared.


    "Holy King!" Tiao responded with respect.


    "Take care of these people. Expose their souls to the sun and hang their corpses at the South Heaven Gate," Zhongshan ordered.


    "By yourmand!" Tiao immediately replied.


    "You can''t do this, Zhongshan! You can''t!" King Qiming cried out in terror.


    Zhongshan, of course, ignored him. King Qiming had to die, and so did all his subordinate immortals. Zhongshan needed to give the ministers an exnation and a clear message to the world.


    Baxie Tianwei naturally assisted Tiao, and in his curiosity, Tiao worked with Baxie Tianwei to deal with the condemned prisoners.


    After giving his orders regarding King Qiming''s fate, Zhongshan turned to face his ministers.


    "My beloved subjects!" Zhongshan called out.


    "Holy King!" the ministers immediately responded with deep bows.


    At that moment, the ministers couldn''t help but admire Zhongshan''s immense power. The once-arrogant King Qiming had been effortlessly neutralized by the Holy King. Zhongshan was indeed the strongest, the invincible one!


    "Your efforts have not gone unnoticed by me. Today, you are all weary. I grant you permission to rest for two days. We will convene in the Hall of Longevity for the morning court two days from now," Zhongshan announced.


    "Yes!" the ministers responded, their excitement palpable.


    With the Holy King''s words, everything was settled!


    The ministers departed, leaving only Lin Xiao, Shui Wuhen, and Shuijing behind.


    "Holy King, you''ve finally returned!" Shui Wuhen said, his voice filled with emotion.


    Lin Xiao and Shuijing both nodded in agreement.


    "Yes, it''s been tough on all of you over these years," Zhongshan acknowledged.


    "It wasn''t tough at all. Waiting for the Holy King''s return made everything worthwhile," Shui Wuhen replied.


    "Your hair has grayed a bit over the years. Go home and get a good night''s sleep, rest for the day, and tomorrow evening,e to my study," Zhongshan said.


    "Yes!" the three responded in unison.


    They had been tirelessly managing the affairs of Great Zheng for years, and their minds and bodies were truly exhausted. Now that Zhongshan had returned, they could finally rx.


    After seeing off the ministers, Zhongshan made his way to his study alone.


    On the desk in the studyy a jade slip.


    Zhongshan sat down and gently picked it up.


    "Zhongshan, you''re finally back! I''ve been bored to death for over a hundred years with no one to talk to!" A woman''s grumbling voice echoed through the study.


    "Well, I''m back now. You''ve gotten pretty powerful while I was gone. When I left, you could only create high-level Celestial Demons, but now you can even create Formless Celestial Demons?" Zhongshan asked with a smile.


    There was nothing in front of him, but Zhongshan could see a woman sitting cross-legged on the desk.


    "Of course!" the woman responded with a self-satisfied tone.


    Zhongshan nced at the jade slip in his hand and said, "This is the information gathered by the Shadow Guard. However, I suspect they didn''t see as much as you did. Tell me, what''s been happening in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court over these years?"


    "Naturally, nothing in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court escapes my eyes!" The woman proudly tilted her nose upward.

 Chapter 969: Commanding the World

    <h4>Chapter 969: Commanding the World</h4>


    On the third day after Zhongshan''s return!


    After more than a century, Zhongshan presided over the morning court once again.


    Three days ago, after returning home, the ministers were celebrated as heroes of Great Zheng. They were revered by nearly everyone, and in their homes, where they had previously prepared for the worst and even set up memorial halls, they were now basking in the glow of Zhongshan''s triumphant return. The Holy King had returned and turned the tide, and these ministers, upon their return, naturally enjoyed a level of respect and admiration they had never experienced before.


    The ministers noticed that over the past two days, their spouses had be more gentle, and their children and grandchildren looked at them with newfound admiration. The ministers relished this newfound respect.


    Everyone knew they had made it through the storm, and from now on, Great Zheng would rise above the clouds and see the clear sky once more! The contributions of everyone involved would never be forgotten.


    Only thirty percent of the original officials remained, but these remaining officials, as long as they didn''tmit major mistakes, would enjoy the best treatment in Great Zheng from now on.


    On the third day, the ministers arrived early at the pce, their hearts filled with anticipation.


    As the ministers gradually entered the great hall, almost all of them were slightly surprised.


    Lin Xiao, Shui Wuhen, and Shuijing had arrived early, but there were two additional figures present��Xiao Wang and Zhao Suoxiang! The militarymanders who had been absent for a century had returned?


    "Prince, Prime Minister, General, Commanders," the ministers exchanged polite greetings, but no one lingered on formalities. They stood respectfully in two rows. Although only thirty percent of the original officials remained, this small group was now the most valuable asset of Great Zheng.


    <strong>"The Holy King arrives������������������������������������������������!"</strong>


    A eunuch''s loud announcement echoed through the hall.


    <strong>"May the Holy King enjoy eternal blessings and live as long as the heavens!"</strong> the ministers bowed in excitement.


    Zhongshan, wearing the t-topped crown and dressed in a dragon robe, suddenly appeared before the dragon throne and slowly sat down.


    "Rise," Zhongshan said calmly.


    "Thank you, Holy King!" the ministers immediately stood up, their gazes filled with excitement as they looked at Zhongshan.


    "During my absence, you all remained loyal to your duties, serving the nation and its people. I am deeply gratified. During Great Zheng''s most perilous moment, you stood firm, defended the nation, and even risked your lives to protect it. You are the pirs of this country. Today, I bestow upon you rewards in recognition of your service. I hope you will continue to devote yourselves to Great Zheng," Zhongshan said solemnly.


    <strong>"We pledge our undying loyalty and service to the death!"</strong> the ministers responded with deep bows.


    At this moment, the eunuch from before stepped forward and began reading a decree.


    <strong>"Minister of Revenue, Chong Zhixu, is conferred the title of First-ss ''Marquis of Protective Peace,'' awarded with one celestial artifact and ten thousand celestial stones!"</strong>


    "Thank you, Holy King!" a robust man stepped forward and received his decree.


    <strong>"Assistant Minister of Revenue, Yun Zhili, is conferred the title of Second-ss ''Marquis of Steadfast Peace,'' awarded with three heavenly artifacts and eight thousand celestial stones!"</strong>


    "Thank you, Holy King!" a slender man stepped forward to ept his reward.


    The eunuch continued to announce the rewards, while in the two side halls of the Hall of Longevity, eunuchs carried trays with the bestowed items. This day was destined to be the most thrilling day for the ministers.


    Over the past two days, Zhongshan had carefully considered the contributions of each official and given them appropriate rewards.


    More than the celestial artifacts and celestial stones, what excited the ministers most were the noble titles. Marquis titles��from Fourth-ss to First-ss��were conferred upon all the officials present. Never before had there been such arge-scale ennoblement, but Zhongshan had been generous this time, bestowing marquis titles across the board. This was also a message to future officials.


    As long as you are loyal to Great Zheng, Great Zheng will never mistreat any of its ministers.


    The ministers were ecstatic as they received their titles, and in the end, all eyes turned to Shui Wuhen, Shuijing, and Lin Xiao.


    <strong>The Three Giants of Great Zheng over the past century��what honors will they receive?</strong>


    <strong>"Great General Lin Xiao, conferred the title of Third-ss ''King of Xiao'' (ХԻ��). Awarded with five celestial artifacts, five celestial pills, and eight hundred thousand celestial stones!"</strong>


    "Thank you, Holy King!" Lin Xiao stepped forward, his demeanor asposed as ever.


    The title of King of Xiao��Great Zheng''s second royal title. Although it was a third-ss royal title, it was still a royal title!


    <strong>"Prime Minister Shuijing, conferred the title of Third-ss ''Feathered Immortal King'' (������). Awarded with five celestial artifacts, five celestial pills, and eight hundred thousand celestial stones!"</strong>


    "Thank you, Holy King!" Shuijing stepped forward, his tone equally steady.


    Everyone''s attention now turned to Shui Wuhen. In terms of achievements, Shui Wuhen undoubtedly had the greatest merit. How would he be rewarded?


    <strong>"Third-ss ''Purple Sovereign King'' (�����) Shui Wuhen, elevated to Second-ss ''Purple Sovereign King.'' Awarded with one ancient celestial artifact, four celestial artifacts, four celestial pills, and one million celestial stones!"</strong>


    "Thank you, Holy King!" Shui Wuhen immediately responded.


    <strong>An ancient celestial artifact?</strong> The ministers looked at Shui Wuhen in astonishment. While the other rewards were expected, the ancient celestial artifact was a shock! Had the ancient celestial artifact just seized from King Qiming been given to Shui Wuhen?


    All around were envious gazes, but no one could deny that Shui Wuhen''s merit was unmatched. The ministers silently resolved to work even harder for Great Zheng, hoping that one day, they might also be rewarded with an ancient celestial artifact.


    After rewarding the officials present in the great hall, the eunuch continued to announce the rewards for nearly three more hours, bestowing honors upon the generals defending the nation and the various city lords.


    Although these rewards couldn''t be delivered to them in person, the edicts would soon be spread across thend.


    <strong>"The rewards have been bestowed!"</strong> the eunuch called out loudly.


    <strong>"May the Holy King enjoy eternal blessings and live as long as the heavens!"</strong> the ministers stood respectfully.


    "Shui Wuhen, report on the situation at the front lines!" Zhongshan ordered calmly.


    "Yes, Holy King. Besides the Taiji Sacred Court, six other great celestial dynasties have waged war against Great Zheng. Due to their decapitation tactics, many of our high-rankingmanders on the front lines were killed, and as a result, we''ve lost control of fifty percent of the original Shenzhou territories. However, three days ago, when your voice resounded across the world, nearly ten percent of the lost cities re-entered a state of chaos, and it shouldn''t be long before they return to Great Zheng''s control!" Shui Wuhen reported.


    "Decapitation tactics?" Zhongshan''s tone grew slightly colder.


    "Yes, the six celestial dynasties even went so far as to deploy celestial immortals!" Shui Wuhen replied with a frown.


    Zhongshan gently tapped the armrest of the dragon throne, contemting for a moment. "How many celestial immortals were involved?"


    "A total of three celestial immortals emerged!"


    "Hmm, in that case, there''s no need for these three unruly celestial immortals to continue living," Zhongshan said casually.


    Zhongshan''s tone was light, but the ministers could sense a hint of cold fury. Was the Holy King truly angered?


    <strong>"Lin Xiao!"</strong> Zhongshan''s tone became more serious.


    "Your servant is here!"


    "Prepare for ten days. After ten days, lead twenty percent of the Imperial Guard and a Four Symbols Formation to the eastern coast of the Eastern Sea. Expand Great Zheng''s territory by a million li!" Zhongshanmanded.


    "I obey the decree!" Lin Xiao responded, his excitement barely contained.


    The battlefield was where Lin Xiao truly belonged. Expanding Great Zheng''s territory by a million li to the east of the Eastern Sea? This was a direct counterattack against the celestial dynasties!


    <strong>"Shui Wuhen!"</strong>


    "Your servant is here!"


    "Prepare for ten days. After ten days, lead twenty percent of the Imperial Guard and a Four Symbols Formation to the southern coast of the Southern Sea. Expand Great Zheng''s territory by a million li!"


    **"Zhao Suoxiang, prepare for ten days. After ten days, lead twenty percent of the Imperial Guard and a Four Symbols Formation to the west of the Western Sea, expanding Great Zheng''s territory by a million li!"**


    **"Xiao Wang, prepare for ten days. After ten days, lead twenty percent of the Imperial Guard and a Four Symbols Formation to the north of the Northern Sea, expanding Great Zheng''s territory by a million li!"**


    **"By yourmand!"** The three of them responded simultaneously.


    Four directions, expanding the territory by millions of li��was this the beginning of Great Zheng''s counterattack? A counterattack against the six great celestial dynasties?


    As for the territories Great Zheng had lost, Zhongshan waspletely confident that the Four Commanders wouldn''t need to reim them. In time, thosends would naturally return to Great Zheng, as they were inhabited by Great Zheng''s citizens and were its rightful territories. No one could truly conquer them in just a few short years. However, the injustice of the invasion had to be avenged!


    Great Zheng was beginning to show its fury!


    **"All cities and military forces in each direction are at your disposal!"** Zhongshan issued anothermand, granting unprecedented freedom.


    **"Yes!"**


    The ministers could all hear the resolve in Zhongshan''s voice. The true campaign of Great Zheng was about to begin.


    **"Shuijing!"** Zhongshan called out again.


    **"Your servant is here!"**


    "Oversee the imperial examinations of Great Zheng. I want you to recruit talents from all over the world��many, many talents. Do you understand?" Zhongshan ordered with emphasis.


    **Many?** The ministers nodded in agreement. Indeed, if the Four Commanders were to truly pacify the six celestial dynasties, how many official positions would be vacant?


    Shuijing, however, understood the deeper meaning. He looked up in slight shock. The Holy King had emphasized "many" twice��this wasn''t just about filling the gaps left by the six celestial dynasties. The Holy King''s ambitions were greater��far-reaching.


    **"Understood!"** Shuijing responded with firm determination.


    He knew that the task ahead would be even more challenging than the Four Commanders'' mission to annihte the celestial dynasties.


    Zhongshan continued to issue a series of orders, conducting the morning court from dawn until dusk. Only then did the first day of court finally conclude.


    As the court ended, the vast machinery of the state began to move swiftly.


    The ministers departed, but Zhongshan remained seated alone on the dragon throne.


    The great hall appeared somewhat dim, with only Zhongshan present. However, upon closer inspection, one would be shocked to find four shadowy figures kneeling at the center of the hall.


    The four figures were entirely shrouded in ck robes, their presence unknown until now. They were barely visible, exuding an eerie and sinister aura.


    **"Commander of the Heavenly Division, Shadow Guard of Great Zheng, greets the Holy King!"**


    **"Commander of the Earthly Division, Shadow Guard of Great Zheng, greets the Holy King!"**


    **"Commander of the Mystical Division, Shadow Guard of Great Zheng, greets the Holy King!"**


    **"Commander of the Yellow Division, Shadow Guard of Great Zheng, greets the Holy King!"**


    The four shadows spoke with voices that were sharp and precise.


    Zhongshan flicked four jade slips toward them.


    The four ck-robed figures swiftly caught them.


    **"In four directions��these are the names. Kill them all, leave no survivors!"** Zhongshan ordered calmly.


    **"Yes!"**


    **"You may go now!"** Zhongshan said.


    **"Yes!"**


    With a flicker, the fourmanders vanished silently from the hall, as if they had never been there at all��eerily silent and mysterious.


    The Shadow Guard of the Imperial Security Bureau, Great Zheng''s elite enforcers, took orders directly from the Holy King, Zhongshan. Hidden in the shadows, they were known to only a select few, and even most ministers were unaware of their existence.


    After three days of careful study, Zhongshan had gained insight into every corner of the world. With a day of arrangements, Great Zheng officially began to reveal its sharp edges in the Fengzhong Territory, raising its sword and pointing it at the world!


    Zhongshan had meticulously nned every detail of the Four Commanders'' campaigns, ensuring their safety at the very least. Now, it was just a matter of time. With enough time, Zhongshan believed he could achieve everything he desired.


    Sitting alone on the Nine Dragons Throne, Zhongshan closed his eyes, gently tapping the armrest with his fingers. Though he appeared calm and serene, his mind was calcting the entire world, strategizing the conquest of territories, and plotting the maniption of the Heavenly Dao and the hearts of men.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 970: Amitabha

    <h4>Chapter 970: Amitabha</h4>


    With Zhongshan''s return, the strength of Great Zheng''s army seemed to have instantly risen by several levels!


    Soon, an extremely eerie event began to unfold��enemymanders started being mysteriously assassinated! One or two could be dismissed as coincidence, but what about ten, a hundred, a thousand, or even ten thousand?


    The manner of death varied, but they all had one thing inmon: the assassinations were silent and undetected!


    These terrifying assassinations quickly threw the high-rankingmanders of the six celestial dynasties into a state of panic.


    In themand tent of one of the celestial dynasties:


    **"Marshal, today another one hundred and threemanders were killed, including twenty-eight city lords. The camps where the seniormanders were assassinated have instantly fallen into disarray, and the Great Zheng troops that had been subdued have suddenly all revolted!"** a general reported anxiously.


    "Assassinations? Decapitation tactics?" The marshal at themand desk frowned.


    "It''s Great Zheng, it''s Zhongshan! Marshal, ording to the people of Great Zheng, Zhongshan has returned! Is this assassination his doing?" another general asked with concern.


    "It must be him!" the marshal responded solemnly.


    "How does Great Zheng have so many assassins, all silent and undetected? Are they all heavenly immortals?"


    "With so manymanders dying every day, our troops that have invaded Great Zheng are getting stuck in a quagmire!"


    "Who will be the next to be assassinated?"


    The marshal sighed softly and said, "We were the ones who broke the rules first; Great Zheng is just imitating us."


    The officials fell silent.


    The assassinations��when the six celestial dynasties initially sent their experts on decapitation missions, those were at least done openly, with the pride of experts. But the experts of Great Zheng hadpletely turned into assassins! They even abandoned their pride?


    An expert who throws away their pride is the most terrifying, and Great Zheng seemed to have far too many of such experts!


    "Great Zheng has many secrets we don''t know about. Inform all themanders to be cautious, and also, prepare to retreat," the marshal said.


    "Retreat? We''ve alreadye this far, and now we''re retreating?" one general eximed in disbelief.


    The marshal nced at the general and sighed, "The tide has turned, and we have no choice but to retreat."


    "The tide has turned? Marshal, only a few have died; Great Zheng''s forces can''t possibly withstand ours!" the general protested.


    "When amander dies, our army''s morale wavers, and it''s not just the army that is rebelling in Great Zheng. Haven''t you seen the cities? In every city that resists, the people are joining the fight. With the assassins constantly appearing, these captured cities will soon be lost. Anything can be suppressed, but not the will of the people. This Zhongshan is too formidable!" the marshalmented with his eyes closed.


    The generals fell into silence.


    **Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Hundred Lives Cave Heaven:**


    A young man in white slowly emerged from the cave. His eyes, once bright, now held an inexplicable depth and an added sense of weariness. This was Shui Quan, the son of Shui Wuhen. He had been sentenced to death for plotting against his father''s position but was spared due to a life-saving decree and sent to endure the trials of a hundred lives.


    At the entrance of the Hundred Lives Cave Heaven, another young man stood guard��Lin Zhong, the son of Lin Xiao, who was about to undergo his own hundred lives trial at his father''s request.


    The moment Shui Quan emerged, he saw Lin Zhong.


    Recognizing Lin Zhong, Shui Quan immediately walked over.


    Lin Zhong, who had once been bullied and humiliated by Shui Quan due to hisck of strength, saw him approaching and felt a flicker of uncertainty in his heart. What did he want?


    Lin Zhong prepared himself for battle, but as Shui Quan approached within a zhang''s distance, he suddenly stopped.


    Facing Lin Zhong, Shui Quan bowed deeply, his expression filled with sincerity. "I was too arrogant in the past and offended you, Brother Lin. Today, I sincerely apologize."


    "Huh?" Lin Zhong was slightly taken aback.


    "The trials of a hundred lives have shown me so much. I offended you in the past, Brother Lin, and I hope you can forgive me."


    Though there was no one else around, this scene was clearly visible to Zhongshan, who was observing from a distant mountain peak.


    "Shui Quan... It seems Wuhen has a worthy sessor," Zhongshan remarked.


    "Indeed," Tiao, standing behind Zhongshan, replied solemnly. "These second-generation officials have lived toofortably, but none of them are foolish. A bit of hardship is good for them."


    "Hmm." Zhongshan nodded.


    "Any movement from the Heavenly Peak?" Zhongshan asked.


    "None yet; the old ancestors are still in seclusion," Tiao responded gravely.


    "I was too impatient. The Celestial Child spoke of three thousand years, and only a few hundred have passed,"Zhongshan said, nodding in understanding.


    Tiao remained silent.


    "Prepare yourself. Tomorrow, we''ll head to Qingqiu," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Qingqiu?"


    "There''s unrest in Qingqiu. The Sima family has rebelled and now holds a significant advantage. It''s possible that the Taichu Holy King has already been defeated. I''ve just received word that a powerful feng shui master has emerged in the Sima family," Zhongshan said seriously.


    "A powerful feng shui master in Fengzhong Territory?" Tiao showed a hint of surprise.


    He was surprised on one hand, but also confident on the other. After inheriting the Tian Family Feng Shui techniques from the Celestial Child, Tiao had spent centuries studying them at the Heavenly Peak. Though he hadn''t fully mastered them, he was confident that no one in Fengzhong Territory could rival him��perhaps only the Mud Buddha could elude him.


    "If my guess is correct, that person might be an old acquaintance of yours," Zhongshan said after some thought.


    "Oh?"


    "Shenxiu," Zhongshan stated confidently.


    "Him? But isn''t he dead?" Tiao asked, surprised.


    "He ''died,'' but he''s alive again. Prepare yourself for the journey to Qingqiu��Shenxiu isn''t as simple as you might think," Zhongshan said calmly.


    "Understood," Tiao replied seriously.


    "Go get ready; we leave at dawn," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Yes!" Tiao retreated.


    "I''ming too!"


    Just as Tiao left, a female voice chimed in. It was Huanji!


    "You''ve been eavesdropping again?" Zhongshan asked, slightly annoyed.


    "How can it be eavesdropping when I''m listening openly? Tomorrow''s trip to Qingqiu will be so much fun! I''ve been cooped up in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court for so long; please let mee with you!" Huanji pleaded yfully.


    "But isn''t the Hundred Lives Cave Heaven here? Aren''t you unable to leave?" Zhongshan asked, puzzled.


    "No problem! With my years of cultivation, as long as I don''t leave for more than a year, I''m fine!" Huanji quickly replied.


    Zhongshan looked at her for a moment before finally nodding. "Fine, but you must listen to me when the timees."


    "Of course!" Huanji agreed eagerly.


    <strong>Qingqiu, before the Imperial Pce!</strong>


    The sound of battle filled the air, and corpsesy strewn everywhere, turning Qingqiu into a scene of unprecedented carnage.


    To the east of the pce, in a ce where bodies were piled high like mountains, the head of the Sima family, Sima Yuan, led arge force of powerful cultivators, advancing toward a group of armored soldiers.


    Standing in their way was a group of soldiers d in armor, led by none other than Su Afo, who had returned from the Nuwa Realm. Behind Su Afo stood a man in golden armor, Hong Xiao.


    "Sima Yuan, the old Marshal Su is dead, and you still think you can stop me?" Sima Yuan said coldly.


    "The old Marshal gave a final order before his death: all soldiers are to obey themands of Young Master Su Afo! No one is to disobey!" Hong Xiao replied, shaking his head.


    At this moment, Su Afo, standing in front of Hong Xiao, was filled with a murderous aura, his eyes ring at Sima Yuan.


    "Su Afo?" Sima Yuan looked at him.


    Su Afo was covered in blood; the life-and-death battle he had just endured had forced him to mature instantly. Despite being gravely injured, he refused to back down.


    "Su Afo, do you really think this is worth it? Taichu has already copsedpletely. All your friends have surrendered to the Sima family. If you continue to resist, you''ll only die in vain. You''re just a celestial immortal��do you think you can stop me?" Sima Yuan said, staring at Su Afo.


    Sima Yuan, an ancient immortal, had been gued with misfortune ever since he was struck by Zhongshan''s terrifying gaze in the Nuwa Realm. In the Nuwa Realm, he had been tortured by dozens of ancient immortals in an attempt to force out information about the Qiankun Cauldron, leaving him with hidden injuries all over his body, and even causing him to lose all his hair. As a result, he was now extremely cautious, even when facing celestial immortals and arge contingent of heavenly soldiers. His recent streak of bad luck had made him overly wary.


    "They are who they are, and I am who I am. Before he died, my grandfather told me that I belong to Taichu, and in this life, I can only be loyal to Taichu. If you want to pass, you''ll have to step over my dead body!" Su Afo shook his head.


    At this moment, Su Afo''s determination became resolute, as if he had put life and death aside. A powerful sense of tragic heroism emanated from him.


    Sima Yuan touched his bald head, feeling an overwhelming sense of bad luck. Ever since that blue light had shone on him, nothing had gone right. And now, even this previously frivolous young master had suddenly developed such a backbone? It was all too eerie!


    The four armies were attacking the pce from all directions, yet his force had run into this lunatic! What rotten luck!


    <strong>"Kill!"</strong> Sima Yuan ordered. The powerful cultivators behind him immediately charged forward.


    Sima Yuan didn''t want to personally engage in the fight. His status was one reason, but more importantly, he felt his luck had been too rottentely, and he preferred to observe from a distance.


    The battle erupted once more.


    It was another brutal and bloody fight. On the eastern side of the pce, Su Afo stood firm, refusing to retreat! This was thest line of defense for Taichu; how could he allow it to be breached?


    Su Afo''s fierce resolve seemed to inspire all the soldiers, who joined him in resisting the traitorous rebels.


    However, the number of rebels was overwhelming, and the soldiers behind Su Afo dwindled until only he and Hong Xiao remained.


    <strong>"Thud!"</strong>


    A dull sound echoed as the battle suddenly paused. A long sword had pierced through Su Afo''s heart and into his dantian.


    <strong>"Young Master!"</strong> Hong Xiao cried out in shock.


    At the rear, Sima Yuan finally showed a gleam of excitement.


    <strong>"You little brat, I told you��you can''t stop me, and no one can stop me!"</strong> Sima Yuan eximed, a bit of excitement in his voice.


    Ever since his string of bad luck began, Sima Yuan had be emotionally unstable. Seeing Su Afo on the brink of death, he quickly exhaled in excitement. At that moment, Sima Yuan felt as though the dark cloud of misfortune that had been hovering over him was finally lifting.


    Opposite him, Su Afo stared at the sword in his chest. Instead of pain, his face showed an expression of deep realization, as if he had suddenly achieved enlightenment.


    <strong>"What is there toment in life, or to fear in death?"</strong> Su Afo said calmly, his expression serene.


    <strong>"What do you mean, ''what is there toment in life, or to fear in death''? Are you crazy?"</strong> Sima Yuan''s emotions were unstable. He had just exhaled in relief, but now seeing Su Afo''s calm demeanor, he almost jumped up. Sima Yuan could not bear to see anyone moreposed than himself.


    Su Afo ignored him, and in a final, eerie moment, he sped his hands together in a Buddhist gesture of prayer.


    <strong>"Amitabha������������������������������������������������"</strong>


    In an instant, the air was filled with the sound of chanting. A million golden Buddhist symbols seemed to suddenly burst from Su Afo''s body, swirling around him, shooting straight up to the heavens.


    From all directions came the deep, resonant sound of Buddhist chants, with "Amitabha" being the most prominent.


    Sima Yuan stood there, mouth agape in astonishment. His streak of bad luck seemed far from over. Who was this Su Afo really? Whose reincarnation had he offended now?


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 971: The Great Thunderclap Temple

    <h4>Chapter 971: The Great Thunderp Temple</h4>


    The rebellion in Qingqiu''s imperial pce raged on!


    The pce of Taichu was the most fortified, with only four breach points in the east, south, west, and north.


    In the east, Sima Yuan led his forces against Su Afo''s defenders. Originally, it seemed that the battle had reached its inevitable conclusion��Su Afo was already on the brink of death, and victory was assured. But whether it was Sima Yuan''s misfortune or Su Afo''s previous life''s identity being too significant, something extraordinary happened.


    Su Afo''s previous life''s fate was so powerful that it could influence his current life. Generally, all that remains from a previous life are memories, but in Su Afo''s case, his fate had persisted��even more, it was an incredibly formidable fate.


    As Su Afo''s fate manifested, the heavens and earth suddenly changed. Countless golden Buddhist symbols shot into the sky, enveloping not just the imperial pce, but the entire Qingqiu. The vast spread of Buddhist symbols shook all of Qingqiu to its core!


    The citizens stared in astonishment, their mouths agape. The three other attacking armies abruptly halted as well, and almost everyone looked up at the sky.


    **"What''s going on? How could there be a Patriarch Immortal here? No, a Patriarch Buddha in Qingqiu?"** Sima Qing, another of Sima Yuan''s rtives, looked up in shock.


    There were no Patriarch Immortals in Qingqiu, but this aura��this wasn''t something even an Ancient Immortal could emit. Who was this Patriarch Buddha? Was he an enemy or an ally?


    The sky was filled with resonant Buddhist chanting, and amid the chants, one phrase stood out��**"Amitabha."**


    Sima Qing gazed up at the sky and said to those around him, **"Amitabha... isn''t that the mantra chanted by monks from the vast eastern regions?"**


    **"A Patriarch Buddha from the east? Could it be from the Great Thunderp Temple? The Tathagata Buddha?"**


    **"It''s not the Tathagata Buddha. He never strays far from the Great Thunderp Temple. But then, who could this be?"** Sima Qing frowned in worry.


    **"Someone, go investigate where the Buddha''s voice ising from!"** Sima Qing ordered.


    **"Yes!"** His subordinates quickly flew off in all directions.


    The one who felt this the most profoundly was Sima Yuan, who had been gued by misfortune for so long.


    Sima Yuan couldn''t even begin to describe his feelings. Who had Su Afo been in his previous life?


    The celestial weapon that had been thrust into Su Afo''s body was now mysteriously turning entirely golden, transformed into a Buddhist artifact by the aura emanating from Su Afo''s previous life''s fate. What''s more, it had even ascended a level, bing a celestial Buddhist artifact!


    How could this be happening?


    Sima Yuan realized that this time, he had truly kicked an iron wall��one that he couldn''t possibly move.


    **"How could I be this unlucky?"** Sima Yuan thought to himself in despair.


    The same sense of doom that had overwhelmed him during his encounter with Ran Deng now filled his mind. To think that killing a mere wastrel could invoke such a world-shaking Buddha��his luck was truly abysmal.


    Even from a distance, Sima Yuan could feel the overwhelming aura radiating from Su Afo. Despite not invoking the power of the Heavenly Dao, Su Afo still exuded an untouchable and domineering presence.


    Slowly, Su Afo opened his eyes, and as he did, Sima Yuan''s eyelids twitched involuntarily.


    Su Afo''s eyes had changed. His pupils were no longer round; they had transformed into the shape of lotus flowers, each pupil a nine-petaled golden lotus!


    Staring into those eyes, Sima Yuan felt as though he were being drawn into their depths.


    **"Retreat!"** Sima Yuan turned and prepared to flee.


    At this point, what was the use of fighting? Su Afo''s previous life''s fate had taken over his current body, and even the faint aura it emitted was invincible. To continue fighting would be suicidal!


    **"What sorrow is there in life, what suffering in death? You and I have no enmity, but in this life, our paths crossed in conflict. The cycle of cause and effect is endless and without beginning or end,"** Su Afo said calmly.


    <strong>But if one listened closely, they would notice that Su Afo''s tone hadpletely changed��it was nothing like his previous self.</strong>


    <strong>"Senior, we had no...!"</strong> Sima Yuan immediately turned around to apologize.


    He knew that escape was impossible, and begging for mercy was his only chance. Sima Yuan had been so beaten down by his recent streak of bad luck that he was convinced that when misfortune struck, there was no escaping it. It was better to just plead for forgiveness.


    Unfortunately, Su Afo didn''t give him the chance. The lotus-shaped pupils in Su Afo''s eyes contracted slightly.


    Before Sima Yuan could finish his sentence, everyone around him suddenly disappeared, disintegrating into golden dust that settled on the ground. Sima Yuan was no exception. In his final moment, only one thought crossed his mind: <strong>"Why am I so unlucky?"</strong>


    <strong>"Boom!"</strong>


    A thunderous crack resounded across the sky, which became densely covered in dark clouds, as if repelling the aura emanating from Su Afo. Powerful bolts of lightning shed wildly.


    Su Afo looked up at the sky and sighed softly.


    Behind him, Hong Xiao was already in a state of shock. It was said that when Su Afo was born, the air was filled with Buddhist chants, the scent of sandalwood, and celestial phenomena. This had led the old Marshal Su to specte that his grandson might be the reincarnation of a powerful being. But this was beyond anything he could have imagined!


    With just a re, Su Afo had obliterated Sima Yuan��a Patriarch Immortal, no less��even though Sima Yuan had been injured!


    <strong>"Your name is Hong Xiao?"</strong> Su Afo turned to look at him.


    Seeing his familiar young master suddenly speaking in a different tone, Hong Xiao felt a bit unsettled, but he quickly nodded. <strong>"Yes, Senior!"</strong>


    <strong>"Would you be willing to follow me?"</strong> Su Afo asked calmly.


    <strong>"Huh?"</strong> Hong Xiao was momentarily taken aback, surprise flickering in his eyes, but he quicklyposed himself.


    <strong>"Yes, I am willing to follow you, Senior!"</strong> Hong Xiao quickly replied.


    <strong>"Good."</strong> Su Afo nodded.


    Su Afo looked around at the surroundings.


    <strong>"Is this Qingqiu?"</strong> Su Afo asked.


    <strong>"Yes!"</strong> Hong Xiao answered immediately.


    Su Afo nodded again. <strong>"The karmic ties in Qingqiu are too great��I cannot be entangled with them. The obsession of this present life was to protect the eastern side of the pce. The eastern threat has now been dealt with, so I will set up a barrier here."</strong>


    As he spoke, a golden barrier suddenly rose behind the two of them. The barrier was filled with countless glowing <strong>"��"</strong>(Tian) characters, exuding a strong Buddhist aura.


    The sky grew darker as more ck clouds gathered, forming an overwhelmingly powerful thunderstorm. It was as if the sky itself was copsing, pressing down on everyone below to the point where they could hardly breathe. The aura of absolute destruction filled everyone''s minds��it was so powerful that even Sima Qing, an Ancient Immortal, felt as though he could hardly endure it. Within this aura, Sima Qing sensed the unmistakable presence of divine retribution.


    <strong>"Alright, now let us go to the Great Thunderp Temple,"</strong> Su Afo said, ncing at the sky.


    <strong>"Yes!"</strong> Hong Xiao responded respectfully.


    Then, with a sh, both Su Afo and Hong Xiao vanished from where they stood.


    The moment they disappeared, the endless golden Buddhist symbols in the sky scattered, and the oppressive thunderclouds, unable to find their target, slowly dissipated as if they had never existed. However, many of the powerful cultivators below were still drenched in sweat.


    The aura had been too terrifying!


    Even after the dark clouds hadpletely vanished, the people remained in a daze, unable to fully process what had just happened.


    The rebellion temporarily came to a halt because the recent celestial phenomena had left everyone deeply unsettled. No one would be at ease until they could make sense of what had just transpired��it was simply too terrifying!


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 972: The Calamity of Taichu

    <h4>Chapter 972: The Cmity of Taichu</h4>


    **Taichu Sacred Court, Qingqiu.**


    The source of the Buddhist chants remained a mystery, but the Sima family had discovered one fact: Sima Yuan, the head of the Sima family, along with all his subordinates, had perished! In the eastern part of the imperial pce, a barrier had been erected.


    Everyone could guess that the Buddhist chants had originated from the east of the pce. The so-called "Patriarch Buddha" had in Sima Yuan!


    Fortunately, this peerless power had already departed.


    With Sima Yuan dead, his son, Sima Qing, showed no signs of mourning. Instead, he immediately seized his father''s position, bing the new head of the Sima family.


    **"Continue the assault on the pce. The Taichu Grand Formation? It won''t hold out much longer!"** Sima Qing ordered sternly.


    Within the pce, in front of the assembly hall, stood dozens of Taichu''s loyal officials, among them Mr. Li and the Chess Saint Meimei.


    Looking at the trembling formation before him, Mr. Li let out a bitter smile.


    **"The great Taichu is about to copse,"** Mr. Li said bitterly.


    **"The Holy King has not yet returned. When he does, he will surely turn the tide!"** Chess Saint Meimei said with a glimmer of hope.


    **"No, the Holy King is noting back,"** Mr. Li shook his head.


    **"What?"**


    **"To keep the ministers'' spirits up, I haven''t mentioned it, but the Sima family''s rebellion was no ordinary one. Of the remaining two kings, one suddenly turned to the Sima family''s side. The two kings have been neutralizing each other''s influence, and Sima Qing has also colluded with the Purple Heaven Dojo. Do you think that''s a coincidence?"** Mr. Li said, shaking his head.


    **"You mean the Sima family has been plotting this rebellion since the very founding of Taichu?"** Chess Saint Meimei frowned.


    **"Exactly. The Sima family''s influence had already infiltrated every corner of Taichu, though it wasn''t very strong. But this time, using the Nuwa Realm incident as a pretext, they made their move. The Holy King... the Holy King may have fallen into trouble,"** Mr. Li sighed.


    **"But our Taichu''s fortune is still intact. The Holy King will be fine!"** Chess Saint Meimei said with concern.


    **"Let''s hope so,"** Mr. Li said with a bitter expression.


    The dozens of Taichu officials behind them looked up at the sky, but none said a word. These were Taichu''s old ministers, steadfastly holding their ground despite the overwhelming crisis.


    **"My father was right. I''m truly not as capable as my sister in inheriting his position,"** Mr. Li said with a wry smile.


    **"This will pass,"** Chess Saint Meimei said with a frown.


    **"Boom!"**


    A thunderous explosion shook the air as the grand formation shattered, sending fragments of crystal flying everywhere. Before they could hit the ground, the crystals dissolved into celestial energy and dissipated.


    Outside the pce, the scene was a nightmarishndscape of corpses and blood. Tens of thousands of skeletal archers took to the sky, their celestial arrows drawn and aimed directly at the pce.


    **"It''s broken! The formation is broken!"**


    **"The Holy King hasn''t returned��what should we do?"**


    The officials were filled with fear, but they stood resolutely behind Mr. Li.


    From the southern imperial road, Sima Qing slowly emerged before the gathered officials.


    Sima Qing wore a dragon robe embroidered with nine dragons, followed by arge group of officials, as he walked step by step toward the assembly hall.


    **"Sima Qing, you treacherous scoundrel! How dare you wear the dragon robe and walk the imperial road?"** an official suddenly stepped forward and angrily denounced Sima Qing.


    Sima Qing gave him a cold nce.


    With a single, icy look, Sima Qing''s intent was clear��his ascension to power wasplete, and any opposition would be met with swift and merciless retribution. The rebellion was no longer just a battle for control; it had be a final stand between the old guard of Taichu and the usurping forces of the Sima family, with the fate of the sacred court hanging by a thread.


    **"Whoosh!"**


    A celestial arrow shot forth with a thunderous roar.


    **"Boom!"**


    The arrow halted just before it struck the official, caught effortlessly by Chess Saint Meimei with one hand.


    The official, seeing this, felt a wave of fear wash over him and dared not speak further.


    **"Chess Saint Meimei, you represent the Fox n, don''t you? This is a matter concerning the Taichu court. Do you really intend to involve yourself? The fortunes of Qingqiu have risen and fallen many times, yet the Fox n has never intervened, as long as the national beast remained the fox. Are you nning to go against your ancestral rules this time?"** Sima Qing questioned coldly.


    Meimei shook her head. **"Taichu represents the Fox n��always has! And I do not trust you!"**


    **"If that''s the case, then forgive me!"** Sima Qing said.


    As he spoke, a man in a green robe suddenly stepped forward from behind Sima Qing.


    **"Zhongyong King, you, one of the three kings of Taichu, are you also betraying us?"** Chess Saint Meimei''s eyes narrowed in disbelief.


    **"All three kings have betrayed us?"** The officials were horrified. The three kings of Taichu��Sima Yuan was one, the second was the Weiwang King, a branch of the Sima family who had already sided with the Sima family during their rebellion. Now, thest king, Zhongyong King, had also defected?


    **"The Taichu Holy King has long been dead. If the old Holy King were still alive, I would remain loyal, but now that girl is in charge, I refuse to serve her. Besides, why was the old Holy King''s death hidden from us? Chess Saint Meimei, forgive me!"** Zhongyong King said before lunging at Meimei.


    **"Boom!"**


    A violent sh erupted as Chess Saint Meimei and Zhongyong King engaged in a brief, probing exchange. The two then shot into the sky, where they began battling fiercely above.


    **"Good, now thest Ancient Immortal is upied. Men, detain these remnants of the former regime!"** Sima Qingmanded.


    **"You treacherous scoundrel, you will not die a peaceful death!"** the officials shouted angrily. However, Sima Qing had another Ancient Immortal on his side��the Weiwang King!


    With Weiwang King taking action, there was no escape for anyone. Mr. Li stopped resisting, and in the blink of an eye, the pce had fallen.


    Sima Qing, under the furious gazes of the officials, slowly approached the assembly hall and looked at the Nine Dragons Throne. A wave of excitement washed over him as he ascended the steps and sat down, sweeping his dragon robe aside.


    Sitting on the dragon throne, Sima Qing felt a surge of power, as if he couldmand the world. It was an exhrating sensation.


    **"Boom!"**


    The fortune of Qingqiu surged violently in the heavens, as if repelled by the fact that the one sitting on the dragon throne was not the rightful Holy King. But with the Holy King absent, there was nothing to be done.


    **"From this day forth, I establish the Jin Dynasty. The Great Jin Celestial Court!"** Sima Qing dered loudly.


    For now, Sima Qing could only establish a celestial court, as creating a holy court required many conditions that he did not yet meet.


    **"Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!"** Sima Qing''s subordinates chanted fervently.


    Sitting on the dragon throne, Sima Qing closed his eyes, basking in his newfound authority.


    The captured officials of Taichu, their cultivation sealed, red at Sima Qing with hatred.


    **"When the Holy King returns, he will surely annihte your nine ns!"** one of the captured officials shouted in fury.


    Sima Qing ignored them,pletely absorbed in the pleasure of sitting on the dragon throne.


    **"Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!"** In the distance, a streak of light was rapidly approaching the pce.


    Arge number of soldiers prepared to intercept it, but Sima Qing, seated in the grand hall as if he could see the outside world, calmly said, **"Stand down."**


    "Yes, sir!" The soldiers immediately stepped aside.


    "Whoosh!" A group of people descended onto the pce square.


    Reluctantly, Sima Qing rose from the dragon throne and walked out to meet them.


    Landing in the square was Cheng Baiyi from the Purple Heaven Dojo, apanied by two elders in purple robes. Behind the three of them was a massive, spherical cage.


    The cage emitted a faint ck light, and inside, two women were sitting cross-legged: the Taichu Holy King and the Nine-Tailed Princess. The two women had formed protective barriers around themselves, resisting the corrosive ck energy within the cage.


    "Holy King!" The captured officials, still sealed, cried out in shock.


    Cheng Baiyi smiled as he looked at Sima Qing. "I''m d I wasn''t toote."


    "Brother Cheng, you''ve worked hard!" Sima Qing quickly approached with a smile.


    "It wasn''t too difficult for me, but it was quite an ordeal for the two elders of our Purple Heaven Dojo. It took nearly five years, and we had to use the Heaven and Earth Net to finally trap these two foxes!" Cheng Baiyi said, his toneced with satisfaction.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 973: The Ferocious Dark Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 973: The Ferocious Dark Emperor</h4>


    "The Heaven and Earth Net, a treasure of the Purple Heaven Dojo? Rumor has it that it''s a Patriarch Immortal artifact?" a bald man suddenly remarked from beside Sima Qing.


    Sima Qing walked toward the square, nked by two individuals: the bald, robust man��Master Shenxiu��and a young man dressed in green, who bore a striking resemnce to Sima Qing.


    As Shenxiu finished speaking, nearly everyone''s gaze shifted toward the Heaven and Earth Net.


    A Patriarch Immortal artifact��such a treasure was beyondprehension. The most powerful artifact in all of Taichu was merely an Ancient Immortal artifact, and even that was rarely seen by themon people. Yet the Purple Heaven Dojo had produced a Patriarch Immortal artifact?


    Cheng Baiyi was slightly taken aback by Shenxiu''s remark and nced at him.


    "And this is?" Cheng Baiyi asked, curious.


    "Shenxiu," the master replied with a nod.


    Cheng Baiyi didn''t know Shenxiu but noticed the intense red gleam in the man''s eyes. He shook his head slightly and said, "The Heaven and Earth Net is not quite a Patriarch Immortal artifact yet, but it has been imbued with the power of the Heavenly Dao. It''s not far off. Calling it the strongest Ancient Immortal artifact wouldn''t be an exaggeration."


    "No wonder it could capture them," Sima Qing nodded in agreement.


    "These two vixens were not easy to capture. It took my dojo''s two elders nearly five years to wear them down before finally trapping them in the Heaven and Earth Net," Cheng Baiyi said with a sigh.


    "The two elders have worked hard," Sima Qing said.


    The two elders remained silent, standing respectfully behind Cheng Baiyi.


    Cheng Baiyi turned his gaze to the two women inside the cage.


    "They are truly exquisite!" Cheng Baiyi said, a hint of lust shing in his eyes.


    "Now that we''ve captured the Taichu Holy King, it''s time to begin unlocking the ''Fox Realm,''" Sima Qing said excitedly.


    ncing once more at the two women, Cheng Baiyi said, "Before we proceed, I have a small request."


    "Oh?" Sima Qing asked, intrigued.


    "My senior brothers all have divine beasts, but I''ve never found one that suited me��until today. I''ve found something I like: humanoid pet beasts. After we unlock the Fox Realm, I''d like these two vixens to be mine,"Cheng Baiyi said without hesitation.


    Hearing Cheng Baiyi''s words, Sima Qing''s eyes flickered. He had long coveted the Nine-Tailed Princess as well. When news from the Nuwa Realm revealed that the Taichu Holy King and the Nine-Tailed Princess were identical, Sima Qing''s desire grew stronger. He had already been nning to take the two women as his personal concubines. After all, the thought of having the once high-and-mighty Taichu Holy King as his ve was enough to make his blood boil.


    Sima Qing hesitated slightly, but reason ultimately prevailed. He nodded, "Very well, I''ll leave the two women to Brother Cheng''s care."


    "I won''t be polite then!" Cheng Baiyi grinned broadly.


    "You scoundrels!" The sealed officials in the distance gritted their teeth in fury.


    Their loyal Holy King was being treated like amodity, passed around between these men. It was an unprecedented humiliation. Some of the officials could hardly hold back their tears.


    "The entrance to the Fox Realm isplex, and only the Taichu Holy King knows all the details. We''ll need to question her further," Sima Qing said.


    "Of course. After all, we''ve been working all this time for the Fox Realm," Cheng Baiyi nodded.


    "Then I''ll leave it to you, Brother Cheng."


    "Elder Huang, you''ve been refining the Heaven and Earth Net. Wake them up!" Cheng Baiyi ordered.


    Elder Huang, one of the Purple Heaven Dojo elders, stepped forward. His hands moved in a series ofplex gestures, and the Heaven and Earth Net began to glow with an intense ck light. The tightened around the two women, and the dark energy intensified, attempting to break through their protective barriers.


    Inside the cage, the Taichu Holy King and the Nine-Tailed Princess shuddered as the corrosive energy pressed against them. Their eyes slowly fluttered open, revealing exhaustion and defiance.


    "Wake up, Holy King," Cheng Baiyi said mockingly, his voice dripping with arrogance. "We have much to discuss."


    "Yes!" The purple-robed man immediately responded.


    "Master Shenxiu, I''ll leave the next steps to you," Sima Qing said to Shenxiu.


    "Hmm," Shenxiu nodded.


    Shenxiu stepped forward, preparing to question the Taichu Holy King once Elder Huang hadpleted his spell. How Shenxiu nned to extract information would be his own method.


    "Father, I want to take a closer look!" The green-d youth standing behind Sima Qing suddenly said.


    Father? Sima Qing''s son?


    "Go ahead," Sima Qing nodded, clearly doting on this son of his.


    Cheng Baiyi, seeing Sima Qing''s deference to Shenxiu and his son, did not intervene and allowed them to approach Elder Huang.


    Elder Huang extended his right hand toward the Heaven and Earth Net, sending wave after wave of blue energy rippling into it. Inside the, the ck energy began to churn violently, assaulting the protective barriers of the two women.


    As Elder Huang performed the spell and the others watched with anticipation, Shenxiu''s pupils suddenly contracted, and a sh of purple light appeared.


    A thin purple sword abruptly shot toward Elder Huang''s back.


    It was so fast��so fast that even the Ancient Immortals present couldn''t react in time.


    As Elder Huang channeled his spell, he only sensed a cold shiver up his spine, a terrifying sense of danger enveloping him. He unleashed his power in a desperate attempt to defend himself, but it was toote. The sword was too quick!


    "Shhhk!"


    The sword pierced through Elder Huang''s heart and then sliced upward, splitting his head in two.


    It was the green-d youth? Sima Qing''s son? No��at the moment of the attack, the youth''s clothes had suddenly turned ck, and his appearance morphed into that of another man��an ordinary-looking man whose features were so unremarkable that he would easily blend into any crowd.


    "You scoundrel!" The other purple-robed elder apanying Cheng Baiyi roared as heunched an attack.


    "Boom!"


    The assassin, after sessfully executing his strike, attempted to escape. The purple-robed elder''s palm strike propelled the assassin into the air.


    "Buzz!"


    Just as the ck-d man was about to flee, the sky suddenly changed, transforming into a world filled with crackling lightning.


    The purple-robed elder had unleashed his "world" domain, trapping the ck-d assassin within.


    The assassin hovered in the air, facing down the powerful cultivators below.


    At this moment, the two women within the Heaven and Earth Net stirred awake��or perhaps they had been aware all along, merely choosing to remain passive while imprisoned.


    "Sima Qing, what is the meaning of this?" Cheng Baiyi shouted angrily.


    Sima Qing ignored Cheng Baiyi''s usations, instead ring at the ck-d man and demanding, "Where is my son?"


    The ck-d man nced at Sima Qing and smirked, "Those I rece are already dead!"


    "Those I rece are already dead?" Sima Qing''s heart sank as the chilling realization hit him��his beloved son was dead.


    In an instant, all eyes were on the ck-d assassin. His earlier assassination had been wless! Everyone knew that the man he had killed was an Ancient Immortal.


    The gathered Ancient Immortals and Great Celestials understood the magnitude of what they had witnessed. The assassin was only a Celestial Immortal, yet he had managed to kill an Ancient Immortal. How could someone so powerful exist?


    However, now that the assassin was cornered, none of the powerful cultivators felt any fear. An entire assembly of Ancient and Great Celestials would not be intimidated by a single Celestial Immortal��such a notion wasughable!


    "Who are you?" Cheng Baiyi demanded.


    In their eyes, a Celestial Immortal entering an Ancient Immortal''s "world" was akin to walking into a cage. The ck-d man was as good as captured.


    "Great Zheng, Dark Emperor!" the Dark Emperor responded calmly.


    His demeanor sent a wave of unease through everyone present. Did he not understand the gravity of his situation?


    "Taichu Holy King, Nine-Tailed Princess! The news from Qingqiu has already been sent to the Holy King. He will arrive shortly," the Dark Emperor announced, directing his words toward the two women trapped within the Heaven and Earth Net.


    The boldness of his statement infuriated the gathered officials��how dare he act as if he were at home?


    At a mere nce from Cheng Baiyi, the purple-robed elder beside him moved into action, his figure blurring as he appeared next to the Dark Emperor.


    "You wretch!" the purple-robed elder roared,unching a powerful palm strike at the Dark Emperor.


    As the elder''s palm descended, arge ck sphere suddenly materialized in front of the Dark Emperor, ten zhang in diameter. The sphere intercepted the elder''s strike, absorbing the blow.


    "Boom!"


    A massive explosion reverberated as the ck sphere trembled slightly. The purple-robed elder staggered back, as if repelled by a powerful force.


    A ck sphere? What kind of sphere was this? That strike had been delivered by an Ancient Immortal!


    The elder stared in shock, while the Dark Emperor''s eyes flickered with a trace of surprise.


    Behind Sima Qing, the Weiwang King prepared to intervene, but Sima Qing held up a hand to stop him. To step in now would be an insult to the purple-robed elder.


    "How dare you!"


    The elder roared again, sending another powerful strike at the Dark Emperor.


    In response, the Dark Emperor merged into the ck sphere.


    "Whoosh!"


    With a strange sound, the ck sphere suddenly began to expand.


    Bigger and bigger, the sphere grew, swelling to an unimaginable size��sorge it became nearly as vast as Qingqiu itself.


    In the stunned silence of the onlookers, the enormous sphere descended, colliding head-on with the elder''s palm strike.


    "Boom!"


    The tremendous impact drove the purple-robed elder into the ground, tearing a massive rift in the very fabric of his "world".


    The ck sphere quickly shrank, and the Dark Emperor, now within it, shot through the rift.


    "How dare you!" the Weiwang King shouted, no longer holding back as he appeared directly in front of the Dark Emperor, blocking his escape.


    The Dark Emperor''s expression remained fierce, showing no fear as he faced the Weiwang King. His form blurred, and suddenly there were three Dark Emperors, each fleeing in different directions.


    Three Dark Emperors? A body-splitting technique? The Weiwang King, startled, struck out swiftly, shattering one of the Dark Emperors. But as he moved to capture another, he felt a sharp pain at his throat.


    "Shhk!"


    The third Dark Emperor, moving with uncanny speed, had shed the Weiwang King''s throat with a thin, deadly de.


    In the brief moment of shock, as the Weiwang King hurried to defend himself, the Dark Emperor shot through the rift and vanished.


    The "world" dissolved, and the assembled cultivators frantically searched with their divine senses, but the Dark Emperor''s presence had vanished without a trace.


    Everyone fell silent, their hearts heavy with unease.


    "Great Zheng!" Sima Qing finally hissed through gritted teeth.


    This Great Zheng was terrifying��this Dark Emperor was terrifying. Before their very eyes, he had assassinated an Ancient Immortal, fiercely shed with another, and, in his final escape, had even slit the throat of a third.


    The memory of the Dark Emperor''s ghostly and deadly efficiency left everyone with a chill deep in their bones. Such an assassin! A Celestial Immortal of the highest level was already so formidable��what would he be if he advanced to a Great Celestial or even an Ancient Immortal?


    No one dared to dwell on that thought for long. A cold dread regarding the Holy Court of Great Zheng settled into their hearts.


    How many more secrets did Great Zheng hold? How many more hidden cards did Zhongshan have?


    The Weiwang King quickly swallowed several medicinal pills, working to heal his severed throat, but sweat continued to pour down his face. The close brush with death had been far too harrowing.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 974: The Fox Realm Opens, the Curse Unleashed!

    <h4>Chapter 974: The Fox Realm Opens, the Curse Unleashed!</h4>


    "The Star Pearl?" Master Shenxiu looked thoughtfully in the direction where the Dark Emperor had departed.


    "Master Shenxiu, do you recognize that artifact?" Sima Qing asked, puzzled.


    "The Star Pearl is one of the Ten Ancient Treasures from the Xiaoqian World where Da Qiong once existed. It is said to be refined from a star of the Grand World!" Master Shenxiu replied truthfully.


    "A star?" The crowd was stunned.


    "No wonder!" The elder in the purple robe nodded in understanding. "So it''s refined from a star; no wonder it withstood two powerful strikes without being harmed. That star must have been enormous."


    "Whoosh!"


    A figure descended from the sky; it was King Zhongyong, who had just been fighting the Chess Saint of Demons and Spirits, returning to the square.


    Noticing the wound on King Weiwu''s throat and the presence of Cheng Baiyi and others, King Zhongyong was slightly surprised.


    "Your Majesty!" King Zhongyong called out.


    "Is the Chess Saint of Demons and Spirits dead?" Sima Qing asked with a frown.


    "Not yet, but he''s gravely injured. He managed to escape, though!" King Zhongyong replied.


    "Hmm!" Sima Qing nodded.


    "Brother Cheng, what do you think?" Sima Qing looked at Cheng Baiyi.


    Cheng Baiyi''s face was dark, but he suppressed the anger boiling within him.


    "Elder Ma, can you still activate the Celestial Net?" Cheng Baiyi asked, turning to the elder in the purple robe who had fought the Dark Emperor earlier.


    Elder Ma shook his head, "The Celestial Net was bestowed upon Elder Huang by the Ancestor; no one dares to tamper with it. If we were to reforge it, it would take at least half a year!"


    "The Ancestor of the Ancient Immortals?" Sima Qing and the others were slightly surprised.


    Cheng Baiyi''s face grew even darker. Without the ability to activate the Celestial Net, how could they coerce the two women inside? Instead of being suppressed, they were now under the greatest protection!


    "Brother Cheng, does this mean that apart from Elder Huang, no one else can activate the Celestial Net?" Sima Qing asked in astonishment.


    Cheng Baiyi was speechless but nodded in confirmation.


    The atmosphere became awkward. After all the effort spent capturing the Sacred King of Taichu, had it all been for nothing?


    "Bring the traitors from the former dynasty!" Sima Qing ordered immediately.


    "Boom!"


    The officials of Taichu, whose cultivation had been sealed, were thrown onto the square.


    "Sacred King of Taichu, speak! How do we open the Fox Realm? For every five breaths of silence, I will kill one person. The moment you speak, I will stop!" Sima Qing demanded viciously.


    Inside the Celestial Net, the two women widened their eyes and seemed to say something, but there was no sound.


    "Time''s up, kill!"


    "Ahhh!"


    A scream echoed as an official was beheaded in front of everyone.


    "Sima Qing, you will die a horrible death!"


    "Sima Qing, you demon!"


    The officials roared in fury, but Sima Qing ignored them, focusing instead on the Celestial Net.


    Inside, the Nine-Tailed Princess was furious, her face filled with anger. She opened her mouth as if to speak, but no sound emerged!


    "Continue killing!"


    "Wait!" Elder Ma suddenly called out.


    Everyone turned their gaze towards Elder Ma.


    Elder Ma''s expression was somewhat peculiar as he looked at the Celestial Net and said, "It seems that while we can speak and they can hear us, their voices cannot reach us."


    The crowd was stunned into silence.


    "Forget it, there''s no need to question further. I have a way to open the Fox Realm," Master Shenxiu spoke up after pondering for a moment.


    "You have a way, Master?" Sima Qing''s eyes lit up with hope.


    "Indeed. Over the years, I have studied the feng shui of Qingqiu and have devised a crude method, but it will require some sacrifices," Master Shenxiu replied thoughtfully.


    "What kind of sacrifices?" someone asked.


    "I can use a feng shui formation to open the entrance to the Fox Realm, but it will consume all the fortune of the heavens in this area, as well as the lives of everyone in the city," Shenxiu said calmly.


    His words were spoken with eerie tranquility, but the crowd was anything but calm. Consuming the fortune of the heavens was one thing, but the lives of all the city''s inhabitants?


    Everyone frowned deeply and ultimately looked towards Sima Qing.


    Sima Qing''s expression fluctuated between hesitation and resolve. After thinking it over, he finally said, "Very well, Master, we''ll rely on you then."


    "Understood," Shenxiu nodded in agreement.


    Three dayster, outside Qingqiu, Zhong Shan and Tian Lao arrived at the fastest possible speed.


    However, as they reached the outskirts of Qingqiu, both Zhong Shan and Tian Lao came to an abrupt halt. The sight before them filled their eyes with horror.


    Was this really the Qingqiu of the past?


    Even from a great distance, the sounds of endless wailing and agony could be heard, echoing with unbearable misery.


    "Ahhhhhhhhhhh!"


    "Save meeeeeeeee!"


    "Uuuuuuuuuuuu!"


    The entire Qingqiu was shrouded in a dense, blood-red mist, which seemed to be continuously churning and roiling, spiraling upwards into the sky. Within the blood mist, one could vaguely see countless blood-soaked corpses and tormented spirits unable to reincarnate.


    The entire Qingqiu had be a veritable hell. Above, the sky was thick with ominous clouds, and streaks of lightning shed through the darkness, casting an oppressive and sinister atmosphere over everything.


    This...?


    Zhong Shan stared in disbelief at the scene before him. Who could have done this? The audacity! Qingqiu must have had a poption of at least eighty million, and they were all used to power this formation? What an unimaginable sin!


    "Tian Lao, do you recognize this?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Tian Lao''s face was a mix of shock and confusion. Finally, he said in astonishment, "Sacred King, are you certain that the feng shui master inside is Shenxiu?"


    "Why do you ask?"


    "Something''s not right. It doesn''t make sense!" Tian Lao shook his head, his voice tinged with doubt.


    "What doesn''t make sense?"


    "This is indeed a feng shui formation, but it shouldn''t be one set up by Shenxiu. Or rather, this formation should be an ancient deadly array��the Great Twenty-Four Heavenly Gods Killing Formation!" Tian Lao exined.


    "The Great Twenty-Four Heavenly Gods Killing Formation? An ancient deadly array? How ancient are we talking?" Zhong Shan asked, his curiosity piqued.


    Tian Lao hesitated before continuing, "This formation is recorded in the annals of my Tian family. It appeared back when the Tian family was still prominent in the Grand World. However, when my family declined, this formation also disappeared and was rumored to have been lost to time. How could Shenxiu possibly set it up now?"


    Zhong Shan nodded thoughtfully.


    "What do you see?" Zhong Shan asked in a voice transmission to Huan Ji, noticing the solemn expression on her face.


    "The presence of intense malevolence," Huan Ji replied.


    "Malevolence?"


    "Let me think... I''ve encountered this kind of malevolence before," Huan Ji said, frowning in concentration.


    Suddenly, her eyes widened in realization. "I remember now!"


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It''s a curse��a powerful curse! When Hao Meili cast her curse long ago, this was the same malevolent energy I felt. But this time, it''s even more potent, even more sinister! This is an incredibly powerful curse!" Huan Ji said, her voice tinged with shock.


    While Zhong Shan was processing what he had just learned, back at the Qingqiu Pce, everyone watching Shenxiu''s ritual was utterly stunned.


    The courtiers were filled with dread, and even Cheng Baiyi showed a hint of astonishment. He exchanged a grave look with Elder Ma, both recognizing the severity of what was unfolding before them.


    For three days and nights, the swirling currents of fortune and blood mist gradually converged,pressing together in the void to form an entrance.


    The entrance grewrger, consuming more and more of Qingqiu''s fortune, as well as the flesh and souls of its people. The endless fortune and blood mist continued to press towards the entrance.


    The moment the entrance fully opened, Sima Qing''s eyes lit up with excitement.


    As the entrance emerged, a strange ck mist erupted from within. The moment the ck mist appeared, the surrounding blood mist retreated, as if the ck mist possessed an overpowering force.


    "A curse? Could this be the ancient curse of the Fox n?" Shenxiu muttered in mild surprise.


    "The legend is true��so it''s true after all!" Sima Qing said, swallowing hard.


    "What legend?" Cheng Baiyi asked, puzzled.


    "It''s said that long ago, the Fox n somehow offended a powerful curse master. That curse master, at the cost of their own life, cast a curse that would haunt the Fox n for generations. It was during this time that the Fox n began to decline from their era of prosperity. Even the supreme power of the Fox n, no matter how formidable, could not ovee the curse. Eventually, they sacrificed their lives to seal the curse away. Who would have thought that the curse was sealed within the Fox Realm? Now that the Fox Realm is open, this curse will once again descend upon the Fox n across the world," Sima Qing exined, his voice trembling with a mix of fear and excitement.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 975: The Legacy of Qingshan

    <h4>Chapter 975: The Legacy of Qingshan</h4>


    "What kind of curse?" Cheng Baiyi asked.


    "A catastrophe," Sima Qing replied.


    "A catastrophe?"


    "Yes, from now on, with each advancement in cultivation for the Fox n, they will face a corresponding catastrophe. Heavenly Tribtions, Earthly Tribtions, Human Tribtions, Heart Tribtions, and Emotional Tribtions��each one moreplex than thest. It''s as if they''ve angered the heavens themselves. Every time their cultivation rises, a cmity will descend," Sima Qing exined.


    "Hiss!" Cheng Baiyi gasped.


    Each step in cultivation would bring a new catastrophe? Not just at each major breakthrough, but at every minor step within a realm? This meant that progressing from the Heavenly Immortal stage to the Great Immortal stage would require enduring ten tribtions. Who could possibly withstand that?


    "At the time when the curse was ced, the Fox n was a powerful force in the Grand World, so much so that one of the saints was said to havee from the Fox n. But this curse was too powerful. In just a thousand years, more than half of the Fox n perished, and those who remained no longer dared to cultivate. The Fox n was on the brink of extinction," Sima Qing said with a heavy tone.


    "That curse master was truly formidable!" Cheng Baiyi marveled.


    "This Fox Realm was sealed off by the supreme power of the Fox n as a separate world. It was once their ancient stronghold, and the curse was sealed within it. So, it has been here all along," Sima Qing sighed.


    As they spoke, the dense ck mist began to spread in all directions before rising into the sky and slowly dissipating from view.


    All across the world, members of the Fox n instinctively looked up to the heavens, sensing an ominous presence, a shadow looming over them.


    They didn''t yet know it, but the true cmity of the Fox n had just begun.


    Inside the Celestial Net, the two women were filled with anxiety as they watched the entrance to the Fox Realm growrger andrger. Anger shed in their eyes, but so did a deep sense of despair.


    Unlike the ancient supreme beings of the Fox n, these two women were only ancient immortals. The curse, once unleashed, was irreversible.


    The cmity of the Fox n had begun!


    Did Lady Nuwa not say that the Fox n would prosper? Why is this happening? Why is the Fox n heading towards extinction? Could it be that even Lady Nuwa couldn''t change fate?


    Is fate truly unchangeable?


    No, if Lady Nuwa hadn''t altered fate, the Fox n would have been wiped out hundreds of thousands of years ago. Something must have gone wrong, something must have changed!


    "Why, Lady Nuwa?" Princess Su Rou of the Nine-Tails muttered with a pained expression.


    "And what about Sima Qing? Lady Nuwa, why did you allow the Qingqiu to ept the Sima family? Instead of bringing prosperity to the Fox n, he brought disaster��a disaster leading to extinction! Why did ite to this?" Sacred King Su Meiniang of Taichu also questioned in bewilderment.


    The fall of Qingqiu? The curse of the Fox n.


    Is the Fox n truly destined for extinction?


    Faced with the looming disaster of their race, the two women shed tears for the first time.


    "Unfortunately, the Saint''s treasure, the Qiankun Cauldron, is too damaged for me to refine it. Otherwise, things wouldn''t havee to this. The Fox n... our Fox n has truly fallen so far!" Su Meiniang said bitterly.


    Before the gathered crowd, the entrance to the Fox Realm continued to expand, growing to an immense size. When it reached ten thousand zhang, thest of the ck mist finally dissipated, and the endless cursepletely disappeared��not fading away, but spreading across the world to envelop every member of the Fox n!


    Endless tribtions!


    With the curse dispersing from the entrance to the Fox Realm, the interior slowly came into view.


    The first thing that caught everyone''s eye was a gigantic throne, an ebony-ck seat emanating tendrils of ck mist. The throne was adorned with fearsome carvings of malicious spirits, as if it was a monument to the horrors that had just been unleashed.


    However, the crowd''s attention was soon captivated by the even more breathtaking sight deeper within.


    Dazzling golden light.


    The interior was a world unto itself, and within this world, the sky was filled with countless radiant golden orbs, each one like a miniature sun hanging in the heavens.


    So brilliant, so dazzling.


    "Fortune, so much fortune!" Elder Ma, who stood behind Cheng Baiyi, suddenly eximed.


    "Unbelievable fortune! The foundation of Qingshan is unimaginably deep. The amount of fortune here is greater than what a single saint could possess��many times greater!" Cheng Baiyi said, swallowing hard.


    Everyone present, especially the ancient immortals, knew just how precious fortune was. And here, in the depths of Qingshan, there was nothing but fortune as far as the eye could see.


    "Your Majesty?" King Weiwu asked, his voice trembling with excitement.


    Sima Qing gave a slight nod.


    In a sh, King Weiwu shot forward, heading straight into the treasure-filled world.


    But as the others watched King Weiwu enter, ready to follow, he suddenly came hurtling back, his face flushed red.


    The crowd immediately halted, staring at King Weiwu in surprise.


    King Weiwu sat down cross-legged, his face still red, and only after ten breaths did he slowly open his eyes, a look of fear in them.


    "What happened?" Sima Qing asked, puzzled.


    "The Heavenly Demon Kings! The throne��the area around the throne is guarded by Heavenly Demon Kings!" King Weiwu said, still shaken.


    "Heavenly Demon Kings? That''s impossible! How could there be Heavenly Demon Kings from the Demon Realm guarding the entrance to the Fox Realm?" Cheng Baiyi said in disbelief.


    Behind him, Elder Ma also found this hard to believe and quickly flew inside. However, just like King Weiwu, Elder Ma soon retreated, his face just as flushed, and sat down to recover. After ten breaths, he opened his eyes, visibly disturbed.


    "It''s true. They really are Heavenly Demon Kings, and there are quite a few of them. It''s that throne!" Elder Ma said, his voice filled with fear.


    "The throne?" This time, everyone carefully examined the throne blocking the entrance.


    The throne emitted wisps of ck mist and seemed to flicker in and out of sight, exuding a deeply sinister aura.


    Sima Qing extended his hand, sending a long sword flying towards the throne. Strangely, the sword passed right through it, as if the throne wasn''t even there, as if it were just an illusion.


    "The Throne of the Heavenly Demons!" Cheng Baiyi suddenly said.


    "The Throne of the Heavenly Demons?" Sima Qing looked at Cheng Baiyi in confusion.


    "It''s really the Throne of the Heavenly Demons, the seat of one of the twelve ''Great Freedom Heavenly Demons'' from the Demon Realm. How could one appear here? Could it be that the Fox n''s supreme power was so formidable that they ventured into the Demon Realm, seized a Throne of the Heavenly Demons, and used it to guard the entrance to the Fox Realm?" Cheng Baiyi''s eyes twitched in disbelief.


    "The Demon Realm��that''s a ce even saints avoid. And yet, the Fox n''s supreme power not only went there but also managed to steal a Throne of the Heavenly Demons? The strength of Qingshan in the past truly was terrifying!" Cheng Baiyi muttered to himself.


    "Brother Cheng, how do we remove this Throne of the Heavenly Demons? How can we get inside?" Sima Qing asked, frowning.


    "It''s no use. To bypass this Throne of the Heavenly Demons, you would need the power of an Ancestral Immortal or an Ancestral Immortal Artifact. The Celestial Net might barely be able to do it," Cheng Baiyi said.


    As he spoke, everyone''s gaze shifted towards the Celestial Net. But as they looked at it, their hearts clenched with frustration. Why, of all times, did Elder Huang��the only one who could control the Celestial Net��have to be assassinated?


    The crowd was left in a state of deep frustration and confusion.


    "<strong>Sima Qing, do you remember the promise from long ago? Can it still be fulfilled?</strong>" Shenxiu suddenly turned to Sima Qing.


    "The hundred units of fortune are right here. If you can take them, they''re yours," Sima Qing replied, his mood sour.


    "Then I thank you," Shenxiu said with a strange smile.


    With that, Shenxiu stepped forward. To everyone''s shock, as they watched with sneering faces, he walked straight past the Throne of the Heavenly Demons, as if it wasn''t even there, and entered the Fox Realm.


    Sima Qing and Cheng Baiyi exchanged a nce, both of them astonished.


    Once inside, Shenxiu waved his wide sleeve, and suddenly, a hundred golden orbs of fortune in the sky were drawn down, disappearing into his sleeve.


    He had just taken a hundred units of fortune?


    Shenxiu didn''t take more, nor did he linger in the Fox Realm. After collecting what he needed, he calmly walked back out.


    No one knew exactly how powerful Shenxiu was, but seeing him move in and out of the Fox Realm as if nothing were in his way, everyone began to regard him with caution.


    Outside Qingqiu, Zhong Shan and his group stood before the hellish scene.


    "Sacred King, what should we do?" Tian Lao asked.


    "Save these souls. Even if we can''t bring them back to life, we can at least prevent their souls from being utterly destroyed," Zhong Shan decided after a moment''s thought.


    "Understood."


    "Sacred King, might we summon General Yan Chongzhi? Our stock of Condensed Soul Liquid is limited, and if I deploy my formation, it will inevitably sh violently with the Twenty-Four Heavens Killing Formation. The souls inside might not withstand the impact and could copse. General Yan Chongzhi, being a ghost immortal, could use his yin energy to stabilize their souls while I set up the formation," Tian Lao suggested.


    "Begin the formation. Yan Chongzhi will arrive soon," Zhong Shan assured him.


    "Yes!" Tian Lao replied, immediately setting about the preparations for the formation.


    Inside the Fox Realm, Shenxiu had collected the hundred units of fortune and emerged.


    Everyone anxiously turned their attention to Shenxiu.


    "Master Shenxiu, how did you avoid the Throne of the Heavenly Demons?" Sima Qing asked immediately.


    "That''s a secret technique of us feng shui masters; I hope you''ll understand," Shenxiu replied, shaking his head, clearly unwilling to exin further.


    Sima Qing and the others frowned, their expressions turning grim. It was obvious that Shenxiu was being evasive. But without a way into the Fox Realm, standing before a treasure trove they couldn''t ess was maddening.


    "Master, if you can lead us inside, I''ll ensure you receive another hundred units of fortune," Sima Qing offered desperately.


    Shenxiu shook his head, his expression turning serious. "I only need a hundred units. Any more, and I couldn''t handle it."


    "Two hundred units?"


    "How about three hundred units of fortune?" Sima Qing was willing to go all in.


    But Shenxiu still shook his head, and with a stern face, he said, "My task here isplete. Farewell."


    It seemed Shenxiu truly only wanted a hundred units of fortune. Sima Qing and the others were left with their chests heaving in frustration.


    "Boom!"


    Suddenly, a loud explosion echoed from the blood mist formation. The blood mist was now being infiltrated by arge amount of dark, yin energy, as if the dark energy was eroding the formation.


    "Huh? Someone''s breaking the formation?" Shenxiu''s brow furrowed slightly.


    Everyone''s attention shifted to the blood mist formation. The ancient immortals could all sense the formation''s immense power, a power they would rather not confront. And yet, someone dared to break it? Who could be so capable?


    "Not just breaking it��they''re trying to save the souls trapped in my formation? An ancient formation? Interesting!" Shenxiu remarked with a hint of surprise, before stepping into the blood mist formation.


    Clearly, a battle of wits between two feng shui masters was about to unfold!


    Sima Qing and Cheng Baiyi both had dark expressions, exchanging nces before looking back at the endless fortune within the Fox Realm, so close yet out of reach. Their hearts were filled with frustration.


    "Brother Sima, what should we do now?" Cheng Baiyi asked with a troubled look.


    "Let''s try again," Sima Qing replied, his voiceced with frustration.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 976: No One鈥檚 Leaving

    <h4>Chapter 976: No One''s Leaving</h4>


    Sima Qing stepped forward, charging toward the entrance of the Fox Realm!


    "Whoosh!"


    In the blink of an eye, Sima Qing was forced back, his face flushed red with exertion and frustration. Clearly, the power of the Heavenly Demon Kings was not something easily ovee.


    It was only after ten breaths that Sima Qing opened his eyes, still filled with lingering fear.


    Everyone else stood frozen, staring nkly. This situation was beyond frustrating! To be stopped at the final step��who could bear such torment?


    "Brother Sima, I think I might have a solution," Cheng Baiyi suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh?"


    "The Heavenly Demon Kings shouldn''t be endless, right? If we send more people in, each one could deplete the strength of a single Heavenly Demon King. Once they''re exhausted, wouldn''t we be able to pass through freely?" Cheng Baiyi suggested.


    "That''s a good n. Soldiers, the Fifth Battalion, all of you, enter the Fox Realm!" Sima Qingmanded.


    Though the soldiers hesitated, they quickly responded, "Yes, sir!"


    Three thousand soldiers simultaneously flew toward the entrance of the Fox Realm.


    "Whoosh!"


    As soon as they entered, the three thousand soldiers were immediately repelled, tumbling back out. It was evident that every one of them had been possessed by a Heavenly Demon.


    They sat down cross-legged, but unfortunately, these soldiers were not ancient immortals; how could they possibly withstand the power of a Heavenly Demon King? Those with weaker wills began bleeding from their seven orifices, their dao hearts shattered! Only a few managed to struggle on.


    The soldiers who had not yet entered couldn''t help but flinch, their eyelids twitching. None dared to step forward.


    "Your Majesty, let me try!" King Zhongyong, who had not yet attempted entry, volunteered.


    Sima Qing didn''t stop him, and King Zhongyong shot forward at lightning speed. A streak of light entered the realm, but within moments, the light shot back out, and King Zhongyong fell among the soldiers, sitting down to regain hisposure.


    Sima Qing and the others wore grim expressions. What now?


    "Sss!"


    As everyone stood conflicted over the Fox Realm, a sudden "sss" sound came from the group of soldiers who were sitting cross-legged, trying to resist the Heavenly Demons. Among them was King Zhongyong, still adjusting to the demonic influence.


    "You scoundrel, how dare you!" King Weiwu roared, striking out with his palm.


    It was the Dark Emperor! Somehow, after leaving earlier, the Dark Emperor had managed to slip back into the crowd of soldiers, once again assuming the role of an assassin. With one swift strike, he killed the distressed King Zhongyong.


    Just as King Weiwu''s palm strike hit the spot, the Dark Emperor had already vanished, retreating swiftly. The blow was lethal, and the Dark Emperor showed no hesitation, ensuring even the soul was eradicated��a hallmark of a master assassin.


    "Boom!"


    An explosion rang out, killing arge number of the soldiers. The Dark Emperor then disappeared into the blood mist, vanishing once more.


    As they watched the Dark Emperor''s retreating figure, a chill ran through everyone present.


    This Dark Emperor was terrifying��his power at the peak of the Heavenly Immortal stage was even more frightening than that of some ancient immortals. How could Da Qiong have someone so fearsome?


    For a moment, it felt as though the shadow of the Dark Emperor lurked everywhere.


    Everyone looked around at the soldiers and officials with trepidation.


    Sima Qing''s face darkened with rage.


    Even King Zhongyong, who had managed to withstand the Chess Saint of Demons and Spirits, had been killed so easily in such a humiliating manner. The assassination was brutal, leaving no room for survival��both the body and the soul were destroyed.


    Cheng Baiyi''s eyes shed with horror. The Dark Emperor''sbat strength was not something that Cheng Baiyi feared��in a direct confrontation, Cheng Baiyi was confident he could defeat him, even if the Dark Emperor had the Star Pearl.


    But the terrifying part was that the Dark Emperor never fought head-on. This made him truly fearsome. He waited for the slightest mistake before striking, and in exploiting weaknesses, the Dark Emperor had reached an unparalleled level of mastery.


    Moreover, the Dark Emperor was exceptionally skilled at concealing his presence, making it feel as though he was always lurking just nearby.


    At this point, who would dare to enter the Fox Realm?


    Within the Twenty-Four Heavenly Gods Killing Formation, a fierce duel was underway between two grand feng shui masters��Shenxiu and Tian Lao.


    Zhong Shan stood outside, with dark clouds gathering in the sky above, a scene he had conjured to block out the sunlight, creating a more ominous atmosphere.


    Perched atop a mountain, Zhong Shan watched as a mass of ghosts began to gather at the foot of the hill, each one filled with a mix of relief from narrowly escaping death and sorrow over their lost lives.


    "Why has this happened?"


    "What exactly is going on?"


    "Was it Zhong Shan who saved us?"


    The ghosts murmured in fearful confusion as they took in their surroundings.


    In the distance, the blood mist began to thin, reced by an increasing amount of ck energy. Gradually, the blood mist dissipated entirely, and soon after, the ck energy began to fade as well.


    The enormous storm that had engulfed Qingqiu slowly diminished, and the feng shui formation was withdrawn.


    In the distance, two figures flickered��Tian Lao and a heavily armored Yan Chongzhi approached.


    "Sacred King!" Both Tian Lao and Yan Chongzhi bowed slightly.


    "You won?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "No, Shenxiu withdrew after just one exchange, as if he had no desire to continue the battle," Tian Lao replied, still puzzled.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    "Sacred King, only about thirty million ghosts remain. The rest havepletely dissipated, and I was powerless to save them," Yan Chongzhi reported.


    "Very well. Stay here and keep watch over these ghosts, in case anything unexpected happens," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Understood!" Yan Chongzhi responded immediately, taking up his duty.


    Zhong Shan, apanied by Tian Lao, flew toward the interior of Qingqiu.


    With the blood mist gone, Qingqiu had returned to a semnce of normalcy, but the damage was irreparable. The once grand buildings had copsed into ruins, and countless bodiesy scattered on the ground, most reduced to skeletal remains, with their flesh long since vanished.


    In the sky, the luck of Taichu was nearly depleted, with only a feeble eighteen-wed golden dragon lingering weakly in the air.


    Taichu had suffered an unprecedented blow.


    Zhong Shan naturally headed toward the pce.


    When Shenxiu left and the feng shui formation copsed, Cheng Baiyi immediately sensed that something was amiss.


    With Shenxiu gone, how could they possibly enter the Fox Realm?


    "Brother Sima, it seems we were too hasty this time. I''ll take my leave for now, and in half a year, after I''ve refined the Celestial Net, we can attempt to enter the Fox Realm together," Cheng Baiyi said.


    As he spoke, a white cloud appeared beneath the Celestial Net, clearly indicating that Cheng Baiyi intended to leave with it.


    Seeing the Celestial Net and the two women trapped inside, Sima Qing''s eyes shed with reluctance. "Qingqiu has quiet rooms where you can refine the Celestial Net. There''s no need to leave."


    "No, thank you! I''ll return in half a year," Cheng Baiyi shook his head.


    "Are you sure you want to leave?" Sima Qing frowned.


    "Leave? None of you are going anywhere!" A thunderous voice suddenly rang out from the void.


    Zhong Shan, from a distance, had already spotted the two women trapped within the Celestial Net. Seeing them imprisoned, a surge of anger rose within him!


    The destruction of Qingqiu didn''t concern Zhong Shan, nor did the copse of Taichu. What mattered to him was that Su Rou and Su Meiniang were trapped.


    Although the two women were reluctant to acknowledge what had happened between them and Zhong Shan, the fact remained that it had happened. How could Zhong Shan allow them to suffer such humiliation?


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 977: The End of the Sima Clan

    <h4>Chapter 977: The End of the Sima n</h4>


    "Leave? None of you are going anywhere!" A thunderous voice suddenly echoed from the void.


    High in the sky, Zhong Shan stood atop the colossal form of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, which had transformed into a behemoth thousands of feet in size. The powerful waves of energy emanated from its eight majestic tails as they whipped through the air. Tian Lao, not having the privilege to stand on the Heavenly Tail, watched from a distance.


    The pce square fell into an eerie silence.


    Within the Celestial Net, a slight smile appeared on Su Rou''s face, though Su Meiniang remained expressionless. Meanwhile, Mr. Tanuki, his cultivation sealed, wore a bitter expression��not of excitement, but of deep resignation. Qingqiu, he thought, was beyond saving.


    Sima Qing and Cheng Baiyi both red at Zhong Shan with a murderous aura, the animosity between them long established.


    Zhong Shan''s gaze fell on the massive Celestial Net, and in a fit of rage, the purple tail of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tailshed out.


    "Scoundrel!"


    Elder Ma, with a swift motion, brandished a purple sword. Surrounding the sword were crackling bolts of lightning, which, as the sword struck out, formed a tempestuous storm, surging towards the massive Heavenly Tail as if intending to swallow both it and Zhong Shan in one fell swoop.


    The terrifying purple sword seemed to carry the power of a heavenly tribtion, its overwhelming might crashing forward with unstoppable force.


    A surge of sword energy!


    On the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, Zhong Shan coldly remarked, "You call that a sword?"


    Hearing Zhong Shan''s words, Elder Ma''s face flushed with shame and anger, and the purple sword in his hand unleashed an even more powerful surge of energy.


    With a single nce, Zhong Shan directed the tail of the Heaven-Destroying Sword to sh with Elder Ma''s purple sword.


    "Boom!"


    A deafening explosion reverberated through the sky, creating a shockwave that obliterated countless buildings in its path. The sky filled with lightning, which crashed to the ground, further destroying the pce.


    "Snap!"


    The tail of the Heaven-Destroying Sword remained unscathed, while Elder Ma''s purple sword shattered into pieces with a resounding crack.


    Shattered?


    Elder Ma''s hand was left bloody and mangled, the fragments of his purple sword falling to the ground. His mind was seized with terror as he watched the tail of the Heaven-Destroying Sword continue to sweep toward him.


    "Boom!"


    Elder Ma quickly pulled Cheng Baiyi away, narrowly avoiding the tail, which then softened and wrapped around the Celestial Net.


    "Stop!" Cheng Baiyi shouted in fury.


    But Elder Ma held him back tightly, preventing him from rushing forward.


    "Chomp!"


    The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail swallowed the Celestial Net in one gulp.


    The crowd was struck with fear.


    Swallowing the Celestial Net��Zhong Shan cared little for such a treasure. By digesting the artifact, the two women trapped inside would be freed. Turning back to the group of people, Zhong Shan''s gaze hardened as he considered who would perish next.


    But just as Zhong Shan turned, he caught sight of a streak of green light rushing towards him.


    It was Sima Qing! His eyes had turned an eerie green, and the green light shot out from them at an astonishing speed.


    Zhong Shan barely had time to raise a protective barrier.


    However, the green light managed to pierce through the protective barrier, instantly entering Zhong Shan''s body.


    Zhong Shan''s expression changed, realizing he was in trouble. The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail quickly moved to shield him, but apart from the tails associated with the Heaven-Destroying Sword, the other four tails suddenly slowed down dramatically, moving at only a third of their original speed.


    Even worse, Zhong Shan found that his own movements were sluggish; it now took three times as long to raise his hand.


    Sima Qing''s face turned pale, clearly indicating that using this ocr technique required an enormous amount of energy.


    "Brother Cheng, Zhong Shan has been hit by my Great Slowing Technique. His speed is now only one percent of what it was. Quickly, now''s the time to kill him!" Sima Qing shouted urgently.


    One percent? In truth, Zhong Shan was only slowed to one-third of his original speed.


    Hearing this, Cheng Baiyi immediately prepared to strike.


    "Wait!" Elder Ma quickly grabbed Cheng Baiyi''s arm.


    "We can''t fight him head-on. We need to leave now!" Elder Ma urged.


    Elder Ma''s grasp jolted Cheng Baiyi back to reality. He knew that Zhong Shan also possessed a terrifying ocr technique, one so powerful that it bordered on the unnatural. Sima Yuan''s death, Ran Deng fleeing like a frightened rat, the demise of the previous leader of the Purple Cloud Sect, and even the fate of Old Ancestor Xuemei��all these events were etched into Cheng Baiyi''s mind. Moreover, Elder Ma''s hand, which was still trembling from the injuries inflicted by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail''s tail strike, made it clear that they couldn''t afford to take any more risks.


    "Let''s go!"


    Elder Ma pulled Cheng Baiyi, and the two quickly retreated.


    Seeing them flee, Sima Qing was furious. Sensing his anger, King Weiwu leaped into action, moving to confront the now-slowed Zhong Shan. All eyes were on this confrontation, particrly Sima Qing, whose face had turned ashen from the immense energy drain of his technique. He was desperate to see Zhong Shan defeated.


    "Shh!"


    The world seemed to fall silent.


    Suddenly, a slender purple sword emerged from Sima Qing''s chest.


    The fearsome assassin had struck again, seizing the perfect moment for another fatal blow. Sima Qing looked down at his chest in disbelief.


    Was he really going to die so ignobly, assassinated in such a humiliating manner?


    "I don''t believe it! I haven''t even established my holy court yet! I was supposed to conquer the world! I refuse to ept this!" Sima Qing''s mind screamed, but it was toote. The Dark Emperor''s strike was deadly, piercing his heart and immediately extinguishing his soul.


    A sudden turn of events��Sima Qing was dead?


    King Weiwu, who had just taken to the sky, froze in mid-air.


    "Your Majesty!" King Weiwu cried out in shock.


    But after delivering his fatal strike, the Dark Emperor vanished into the crowd once again.


    "Your Majesty? Who is your majesty?" A woman''s voice suddenly called out from above.


    The Sacred King of Taichu and the Nine-Tailed Princess had emerged, ring angrily at King Weiwu.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan had disappeared. The moment Sima Qing died, the slowing technique that had affected Zhong Shan waspletely lifted. Moreover, the Celestial Net, a treasure reputed to be the closest to an ancestral immortal artifact, had caused Zhong Shan, who was already immune to most ancient immortal artifacts, to break through from the peak of the Great Immortal Third Heaven to the Great Immortal Fourth Heaven.


    At the Fourth Heaven, Zhong Shan''s speed wasn''tparable to the Invisible Body technique, but he was still much faster than most Great Immortals.


    Zhong Shan shot towards Cheng Baiyi with incredible speed.


    Elder Ma, who had just been severely injured by the Heaven-Destroying Sword, was also moving slowly due to his wounds, unable to escape as quickly as he needed to.


    Zhong Shan was closing in on his prey when Elder Ma, realizing they had no chance of escape, made a desperate decision.


    "Go now! Take the Purple Cloud Dojo to our Grandmaster! The Wind Tomb Domain is no longer safe. I''ll hold off Zhong Shan!" Elder Ma''s face was filled with determination.


    It wasn''t that Elder Ma wasn''t afraid of death, but there were things he had to do��Cheng Baiyi had to survive. If Cheng Baiyi died, Elder Ma knew that no matter where he fled, he would be doomed, along with his descendants.


    Faced with the dire situation, Cheng Baiyi didn''t waste time; he turned and sped away as fast as he could.


    Elder Ma positioned himself in front of Zhong Shan, pulling out a disk-shaped artifact, clearly an ancient immortal treasure.


    "Fool!" Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with fury.


    A severely injured ancient immortal? The Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail would suffice.


    Zhong Shan moved to bypass Elder Ma in a blur.


    "Die!" Elder Ma''s eyes gleamed with madness.


    "Boom!"


    With a thunderous explosion, Elder Ma activated the disk, causing it to detonate violently. The st shook the very fabric of the void, causing intense spatial ripples.


    The sudden tremors startled Zhong Shan. In his current state, even as a Great Immortal, he couldn''t withstand the destabilizing effects of the space around him.


    With a swift thought, Zhong Shan wrapped himself tightly in the protective embrace of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail.


    "Rumble..."


    After a series of violent shakes, Zhong Shan reappeared in the devastatedndscape.


    As he retracted the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, the world around him became clear��an entire region had been reduced to a deste, sandy wastnd.


    Cheng Baiyi had vanished without a trace, and Elder Ma had sacrificed his life.


    Zhong Shan felt a strange sensation. Who exactly was Cheng Baiyi? A mere Great Immortal with two ancient immortals serving under him, even willing to die for him? The Purple Cloud Dojo must be moreplicated than it seemed.


    With a flick of his sleeve, Zhong Shan dismissed the thought and flew back to the pce square.


    When he arrived, he saw that King Weiwu had been subdued by Su Meiniang.


    The rebellion had failed utterly.


    Although Su Meiniang had regained control of Taichu, her expression remained somber. The ministers who had been saved rejoiced, and the rebellious forces quickly surrendered.


    "Sacred King, you''ve returned atst!" A group of elderly ministers eximed in relief.


    Nearby, Mr. Tanuki''s face was grim. Though Su Meiniang had regained control of Taichu, the question lingered��was Taichu still the same? Qingqiuy in ruins, the Fox Realm had been opened, and the curse upon the Fox n was unleashed. The fate of thend was reflected in the weak, eighteen-wed golden dragon of fortune in the sky.


    "Citizens of Taichu, the Sima family hasmitted treason, and the ringleaders have been punished. I decree that all members of the Sima n are to be executed. Any who kill a member of the Sima n will be pardoned for their crimes and rewarded!" Su Meiniang dered coldly.


    This was the art of power. The Sima family had lost everything, and those who had sided with them in the rebellion could now save themselves by turning on their former allies. The Sima family was doomed.


    All across Taichu, the sounds of battle rang out, but now the fighting was to suppress the rebellion, not to further it.


    In the distance, three million souls of the Qingqiu n approached.


    "Sacred King!" The souls of Qingqiu were filled with sorrow.


    Though it was their first time seeing Su Meiniang''s face, her aura made it clear who she was. Moreover, she had justmanded the golden dragon of fortune.


    Su Meiniang remained silent, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. The situation had deteriorated to its worst.


    Opening her eyes, she turned to Zhong Shan. "Thank you for your help."


    "You saved Da Qiong once," Zhong Shan replied.


    With a faint smile, Su Meiniang shook her head. "Taichu was born for the Fox n, and now that the Fox n is cursed, Taichu''s survival is meaningless. But I appreciate your help nheless."


    Zhong Shan said nothing more, but reached into his robe and produced a small banner.


    "Baosi asked me to give this to you before she died," Zhong Shan said.


    Seeing the Demon-Summoning Banner, Su Meiniang was momentarily taken aback, while Su Rou, standing nearby, looked slightly pleased.


    Su Meiniang took the banner, nced at Zhong Shan in surprise, and nodded deeply. "Thank you. With the Demon-Summoning Banner, there may still be a sliver of hope!"


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan asked, intrigued.


    "Our ancestor left behind a prophecy. The Demon-Summoning Banner might hold the key to breaking the curse," Su Meiniang said, her eyes gleaming with a glimmer of hope.


    With that, Su Rou and Su Meiniang exchanged a nce, their auras ring. Su Rou revealed nine fox tails, while Su Meiniang showed one, and as they touched, theybined into a single ten-tailed fox.


    Raising her head, the ten-tailed fox called out to the heavens, "All foxes of the world, heed mymand!"


    "Qingqiu is in turmoil, and the ancient curse has befallen the Fox n. Disaster is upon us. Return to Qingqiu within the next eight years and enter the Fox Realm to escape the cmity. After eight years, the Fox Realm will close, and you will face your tribtions alone!" The ten-tailed fox dered.


    "All foxes of the world?" Zhong Shan''s eyes widened in surprise. Could the ten-tailed fox really summon every fox across the world?


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 978: Nezha Seeks Revenge

    <h4>Chapter 978: Nezha Seeks Revenge</h4>


    "After eight years, the Fox Realm will be sealed?" Zhong Shan asked with a hint of surprise.


    Su Meiniang looked at the gathered ministers, then at Zhong Shan. "Sacred King Zhong, I would like to speak with you privately."


    Zhong Shan seemed to understand what Su Meiniang wanted to discuss and nodded.


    With a wave of his hand, Tian Lao withdrew a little, and the ministers of Taichu quickly followed suit.


    Su Meiniang extended her hand and created a soundproof barrier.


    Within the barrier, only four people remained: Zhong Shan, Su Meiniang, Su Rou, and Mr. Tanuki.


    "After eight years, for the sake of the Fox n, Su Rou and I will enter the Fox Realm to lead our people into hiding. We will also study the Demon-Summoning Banner in hopes of finding a way to break the curse," Su Meiniang exined.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Mr. Tanuki is my brother. Though he has talent, he is not fit to be an emperor," Su Meiniang said, ncing at Mr. Tanuki.


    Mr. Tanuki nodded, acknowledging his unsuitability for the throne.


    "After I leave, Taichu will inevitably fall apart. Even if I were to force my brother to take the throne, he wouldn''t be able to hold it for long. So, I want to entrust Taichu to you," Su Meiniang said.


    "Entrust it to me?" Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    "Don''t worry, once I entrust Taichu to you, Taichu will cease to exist. This is not the same as when I once offered Taichu as a vassal state. I know of your ambitions. You don''t need a vassal state. Su Rou has been by your side for some time now, and I''vee to understand your capabilities. The unification of the Wind Tomb Domain is inevitable��I''m simply speeding up the process," Su Meiniang continued.


    "When will you return?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I don''t know. It could be a very long time," Su Meiniang said with a trace of bitterness.


    If the Demon-Summoning Banner were easy toprehend, the Fox n''s supreme leader would have already deciphered it.


    "Mr. Tanuki won''t be joining you in the Fox Realm?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly surprised, noting the tone in Su Meiniang''s voice that seemed to imply she was distancing herself from him.


    Looking at Mr. Tanuki, Su Meiniang spoke seriously, "In eight years, very few will make it back to Qingqiu. Even the Fox n in the Wind Tomb Domain won''t all make it. The world is too vast. I can only take the Fox n''s most powerful members with me to study the Demon-Summoning Banner. But there will still be many Fox n members left in the world who will need protection. Brother, can you do this?"


    "I won''t let you down, sister!" Mr. Tanuki vowed with utmost seriousness.


    "Please, Sacred King Zhong, protect my Fox n whenever possible!" Su Meiniang suddenly bent her knees as if to kneel in supplication.


    Zhong Shan quickly caught her, preventing her from kneeling.


    "Do you still need to do this with me?" Zhong Shan said with a faint smile.


    "I''m asking on behalf of the Fox n," Su Meiniang insisted stubbornly.


    Su Rou, standing by, supported Su Meiniang but remained silent, her eyes filled with hope as she looked at Zhong Shan.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhong Shan said, "I will do my best, within my power."


    "Thank you!" Su Meiniang nodded.


    "My brother will serve in Da Qiong from now on. I hope you will look after him," Su Meiniang added.


    ncing at Mr. Tanuki, Zhong Shan nodded. "Mr. Tanuki is talented; Da Qiong will be fortunate to have him."


    "Thank you," Su Meiniang expressed her gratitude.


    "However, may I enter the Fox Realm to have a look?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Su Meiniang shook her head. "No, you cannot enter. Deep within the Fox Realm, anyone who isn''t a member of the Fox n will be repelled. It''s a prohibition set by the Fox n''s supreme leader long ago. Shenxiu might have sensed its mysteries, which is why he didn''t dare venture further or linger longer."


    "<strong>Sister, how did Shenxiu manage to bypass the Throne of the Heavenly Demons and enter the Fox Realm?</strong>" Mr. Tanuki immediately asked.


    "Everything has its rules and methods. There is a way to enter. This was the first barrier left behind by the Fox n''s supreme leader. When the Fox Realm closes, the Throne of the Heavenly Demons will vanish, returning to the Demon Realm," Su Meiniang exined.


    At this moment, Huan Ji, who had been quietly observing the Throne of the Heavenly Demons, suddenly spoke up. "Zhong Shan, I want that!"


    Huan Ji had been eyeing the Throne of the Heavenly Demons with a gleam in her eyes ever since they arrived.


    "Is there a way to collect the Throne of the Heavenly Demons?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Collect it? How could that be possible?" Su Rou finally spoke, disbelief evident in her tone.


    "If I were to take it, would it cause any problems for you?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Su Meiniang, Su Rou, and Mr. Tanuki exchanged curious nces at Zhong Shan''s question.


    "If you can manage to take it, then go ahead. The Throne of the Heavenly Demons is fundamentally different from the artifacts of the Grand World; it can''t be collected," Su Meiniang replied, her tone skeptical.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    At that moment, Huan Ji had already rushed over to the Throne of the Heavenly Demons. To her, this was a major gain.


    "Zhong Shan, you all take your time. I''m heading back to Lingxiao Heavenly Court!" Huan Ji eximed as she grabbed hold of the Throne of the Heavenly Demons.


    Zhong Shan could only shake his head in resignation. Could she not be a little more subtle? How was he supposed to exin this?


    As soon as Zhong Shan gave his consent, the Throne of the Heavenly Demons at the entrance to the Fox Realm vanished without a trace.


    "Huh?" Su Rou looked on in astonishment.


    "What? The Throne of the Heavenly Demons is gone?" Mr. Tanuki was left speechless.


    The three of them turned to Zhong Shan simultaneously.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded, confirming that he had taken it.


    The three stood there in stunned silence.


    Over the next eight years, powerful members of the Fox n from across the world flocked to the Fox Realm, entering it to escape the looming disaster. With the guidance of the Sacred King of Taichu, Mr. Tanuki swiftly consolidated the Taichu domain, working in tandem with the Da Qiong army and the remnants of the Taichu forces. Da Qiong''s territory expanded rapidly.


    The northeastern regions of the Wind Tomb Domain, vast expanses ofnd, quickly became part of Da Qiong''s territory.


    In a sh, Da Qiong had imed a quarter of the Wind Tomb Domain��a pace so terrifying that it left the other nations in the Grand World trembling with fear.


    The once-dying Da Qiong, after Zhong Shan''s return, had grown so powerful?


    Eight yearster, Zhong Shan, apanied by his ministers, arrived at the entrance to the Fox Realm, preparing to bid farewell to the two women and witness the closing of the realm. The entrance to the Fox Realm had shrunk to the height of just two people and was continuing to close.


    In one of the remaining grand halls of the former Qingqiu Pce, Su Meiniang addressed Mr. Tanuki.


    "Brother, before I leave, I must tell you onest thing: no matter what happens, you must stay with Da Qiong and follow its lead. When I return after breaking the curse of the Fox n, I want to find you still loyal," Su Meiniang instructed.


    "Yes, sister, I will follow your guidance without fail!" Mr. Tanuki nodded in agreement.


    "Do not disappoint me!" Su Meiniang gave him a deep, meaningful look.


    "I won''t!" Mr. Tanuki responded with firm resolve.


    With a nod of approval, Su Meiniang led Mr. Tanuki out of the pce.


    Zhong Shan, along with his ministers, was already waiting outside, with Su Rou standing close by.


    As she approached Zhong Shan, Su Meiniang gave a graceful bow.


    "Sacred King Zhong, I leave everything in your hands," Su Meiniang said earnestly.


    "I will be waiting for your return," Zhong Shan replied with a nod.


    Su Meiniang returned the nod. Su Rou, standing beside her, nced at Zhong Shan with a hint of reluctance.


    "<strong>Zhong Shan, I''m going in now!</strong>" Su Rou said.


    "I will remember you," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The two women stepped into the Fox Realm.


    Su Rou''s eyes shed with reluctance, while Su Meiniang''s gaze remained resolute, showing no emotion. However, as the entrance to the Fox Realm grew smaller, Su Meiniang, almost unconsciously, bit her lip while looking at Zhong Shan.


    "Boom!"


    With a thunderous roar, the entrance to the Fox Realm mmed shut. The sky rumbled with a crack of lightning, and a torrential rain began to fall.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan dispersed the rain and thunder, clearing the sky. He gazed at the now-vanished entrance to the Fox Realm and sighed softly.


    "Su Li, at your service, Sacred King!" Mr. Tanuki said as he bowed to Zhong Shan.


    "Hmm, I now appoint you..." Zhong Shan began, but he was interrupted.


    "Sacred King, I don''t want to disgrace my sister by relying on her reputation to establish myself in Da Qiong. I wish to take part in the imperial examinations and earn recognition through my own abilities!" Mr. Tanuki dered with pride.


    "Very well!" Zhong Shan responded with satisfaction.


    In the mortal world, Da Qiong entered a golden age of prosperity.


    Though there were some murmurs of discontent among the former subjects of Taichu, the integration of theirnds into Da Qiong was quicker and more stable than those territories acquired through conquest. Many of the former officials of Qingqiu also joined Da Qiong''s bureaucracy, and the great families were not significantly affected.


    Da Qiong''s four armies, led by their generals, swiftlypleted the tasks assigned by Zhong Shan. With the momentum gained from Taichu''s support, Da Qiong''s territory expanded rapidly, swallowing up vast regions of the Wind Tomb Domain.


    In a short time, Da Qiong came to control a quarter of the Wind Tomb Domain��a speed so frightening that it sent waves of fear throughout the Grand World''s other nations.


    Just eight years earlier, Da Qiong had been on the brink of copse. But since Zhong Shan''s return, it had risen to such strength?


    Now, at the southeastern seas of the Wind Tomb Domain, a group of warriors appeared!


    There were about a thousand of them, all d in armor. Leading them was a young man dressed inbat gear. The youth was extraordinarily handsome, carrying a golden longbow on his back, a spear in hand, arge ring on his shoulder, and a red silk ribbon fluttering from his neck.


    Unlike most people who traveled by riding clouds, the young man stood upon two wheels, which emitted fierce mes but moved with incredible speed.


    The young man''s face was serious, his brows furrowed as if shrouded by a dark aura.


    "Third Prince, we left without reporting to the Jade Emperor. Will this...?" a golden-armored man behind him asked worriedly.


    "What are you afraid of? I''ll bear all the consequences. Zhong Shan killed my master, and I, Nezha, will avenge him by tearing Zhong Shan to pieces!" the young man''s eyes zed with fury, his aura exuding ferocity.


    "But..." the golden-armored man hesitated.


    "If you''re scared, go back now! I can destroy Zhong Shan without you!" Nezha snapped.


    "No, we admire you the most, Third Prince. We''d follow you even into the depths of hell. But, Third Prince, have you noticed that you''ve changed?" the golden-armored man asked, concerned.


    "Changed? I haven''t noticed anything," Nezha shook his head.


    "No, ever since you returned from investigating the ''Sacred Corpse Mountain'' for the Jade Emperor over three hundred years ago, after it was engulfed by endless corpse energy, your personality seems... different," the golden-armored man cautiously noted.


    "Really?" Nezha frowned.


    "Yes," the golden-armored man confirmed.


    "I was contaminated by the aura there. I managed to seal it temporarily, but it seems it has still affected me," Nezha said, his frown deepening.


    "Third Prince, what exactly was inside that Sacred Corpse Mountain?" the golden-armored man asked cautiously.


    "Monster? You don''t have the right to call him that. Neither do I!" Nezha shook his head.


    "Then who is he? What was there?" the golden-armored man asked, his curiosity piqued.


    "The Biyou Pce of the Jiejiao Sect was there once. But after the fall of the Saint Tongtian, the ce became... No, the Sacred Corpse? Third Prince, was that the body of Saint Tongtian?" The golden-armored man''s eyes widened in shock, but he didn''t dare finish his sentence.


    Nezha''s eyes grew cold, and he remained silent, his expression darkening as memories of the Sacred Corpse Mountain weighed heavily on him. The group continued forward, determined in their mission, but the ominous aura surrounding Nezha hinted at the perilous journey ahead.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 979: The Return of Se Kong

    <h4>Chapter 979: The Return of Se Kong</h4>


    **Lingxiao Heavenly Court**


    In the Tianyuan Pavilion of Zhongshan''s study, three people were present: Zhongshan, Zhao Suoxiang, and Yi Yan.


    The underworld (yin realm) had temporarily settled into a semnce of stability, allowing themanders of the Great Zhen (Da Zhen) empire to use the Emperor''s Map to travel to the mortal realm (yang realm). Although the Great Zhen empire existed in both realms, themanders understood that there was, in fact, only one Great Zhen. After all, the two Holy Kings were the same person, sharing identical thoughts and will, making the notion of two empires irrelevant.


    "We are still in desperate need of talent," Zhongshan mused, his brow furrowing slightly.


    For the ever-expanding Great Zhen, talent was the most crucial resource, a vital necessity for the empire''s continued growth and stability.


    "Shuijing has already done his best. Even if it were me, I couldn''t match his achievements," Yi Yan shook his head, acknowledging the limits of their current capabilities.


    "I know, but it''s still not keeping pace with our expansion," Zhongshan sighed.


    "Not keeping pace? I actually think we''re doing fine. Once we conquer more territories, we can gradually gather more talents," Yi Yan responded, puzzled by Zhongshan''s concern.


    "No, most of those territories are already under our control," Zhongshan exined.


    "Oh?" Yi Yan didn''t quite understand.


    "In the south, the former Taiyi Sacred Court has copsed, splitting into four major celestial dynasties. Those four dynasties are just waiting to be absorbed into our Great Zhen," Zhongshan continued calmly.


    "The south? When did the Holy King...? Could it be the mysterious Corpse Mister who''s been absent all this time?" Yi Yan quickly deduced.


    "Yes, the emperors of those four celestial dynasties are actually long dead, turned into corpses by Corpse Mister," Zhongshan confirmed with a nod.


    "..."


    After a moment of silence, Yi Yan sighed in admiration, "The Holy King is truly farsighted, and Corpse Mister is indeed unfathomably mysterious."


    "Hmm. You are adept at grasping the bigger picture. Corpse Mister will return to Lingxiao Heavenly Court in a few days. You should draft a n for how to deal with those four celestial dynasties," Zhongshan instructed.


    An emperor need not manage everything personally, but must know how to delegate effectively; otherwise, what use would the ministers be?


    "Understood," Yi Yan nodded.


    "In the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, there''s a Hall of Information No. 5, a restricted area specifically formunicating with Corpse Mister. You should consult with him there," Zhongshan added.


    "Understood," Yi Yan agreed.


    "Luo Xingchen has scattered the capital of the Taiji Sacred Court. Now, the Taiji Sacred Court is inplete disarray. The northwest is also in turmoil. Speed up the deployment and release the soldiers from the original Taichu Sacred Court. Send them to the battlefield," Zhongshan ordered once more.


    Yi Yan let out a deep breath and smiled, "With the soldiers from the original Taichu Sacred Court, my pressure will be greatly relieved."


    Zhongshan nodded. The soldiers of the Taichu Sacred Court needed time to limate, but time was a luxury Zhongshan could not afford. The Fengzhong Territory had to be seized immediately. Any dy would invite covetous eyes from other realms. The soldiers would have to limate in the crucible of war��Yi Yan knew how to handle it.


    "Suoxiang, how is your cultivation progressing?" Zhongshan asked, turning to Zhao Suoxiang.


    "I''ve reached the peak of the Heavenly Immortal stage, but I still need a catalyst to break through. I''m working on it," Zhao Suoxiang responded earnestly.


    "The spear is indeed a rare path, with few who truly master it. But I believe in you��you will push the Way of the Spear to its pinnacle," Zhongshan encouraged.


    "Thank you, Holy King," Zhao Suoxiang nodded gratefully.


    As the three conversed, Zhongshan''s pupils suddenly contracted, and his expression turned grave.


    "Holy King, what''s wrong?" Yi Yan noticed the change in Zhongshan''s demeanor.


    "Someone is trying to calcte my fate? And from the intensity, it should be a Grand Immortal... Perhaps even within the Fengzhong Territory?" Zhongshan''s eyes narrowed in sharp focus.


    "Grand Immortal?" Yi Yan furrowed his brow.


    A Grand Immortal was the strongest being below a Sage. Could a Grand Immortal be targeting the Holy King?


    "Don''t worry. As long as I remain in Lingxiao Heavenly Court, even a Grand Immortal can''t touch me," Zhongshan reassured them.


    "Yes," the two nodded in agreement.


    "We''ve been talking for quite some time. You both should go rest," Zhongshan said.


    "Understood, we shall take our leave," Yi Yan and Zhao Suoxiang replied, bowing as they exited the Tianyuan Pavilion.


    Once outside, Zhao Suoxiang turned to Yi Yan, still puzzled. "Mr. Yi, who do you think is targeting the Holy King? Could there really be a Grand Immortal in the Fengzhong Territory?"


    "No matter who it is, the Holy King''s safety must be our top priority. I will immediately notify Corpse Mister and Luo Xingchen to return. Corpse Mister''s secret techniques are mysterious and may prove useful to the Holy King," Yi Yan responded without hesitation.


    Both men had noticed that while Zhongshan''s tone seemed lighthearted, the mere presence of a Grand Immortal was no trivial matter. Zhongshan had likely downyed the threat to keep them from worrying. After all, there was little they could do against a Grand Immortal.


    But as loyal ministers, it was their duty to ease their sovereign''s burdens. Yi Yan quickly decided to summon these powerful allies back to Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Meanwhile, inside the Tianyuan Pavilion, Zhongshan was deep in thought.


    Another Grand Immortal? Why has one appeared again? And from the sensation, this Grand Immortal doesn''t seem any weaker than the Old Ancestor Xuemei from before.


    At that moment, in the Fengzhong Territory, at the former site of the Snake Queen''s Daoist grounds, two figures appeared along with a bizarre-looking beast.


    The beast resembled a lizard, but it stood over a hundred zhang tall, its entire body encased in a silvery, metallic substance, making it look like a giant chunk of iron. The armored beasty there, gazing at one of the figures.


    One of the figures was a man in a white robe with a stern, weathered appearance, his temples streaked with gray, giving him an air of profound experience. He sat cross-legged, his hands moving as if calcting something, a look of deep concentration on his face.


    Beside him stood a man in golden robes, who, if Zhongshan were present, would have been shocked to see. This man bore a striking resemnce to Kong Lietian, Zhongshan''s sworn enemy from the Thousand Worlds, sharing seven or eight simr features.


    But it wasn''t just a resemnce��this was the divine beast Quchan, who had devoured Kong Lietian''s soul. He was none other than Sekong, the monk who fled from Zhongshan every time they crossed paths in the Thousand Worlds.


    Sekong nced around, then turned his gaze to the cross-legged man in white, a frown creasing his brow as a cold glint shed in his eyes.


    The armored beast seemed to sense Sekong''s icy stare and turned its head, letting out a series of low, threatening growls that resonated like sound waves against a massive stone.


    "Crack, crack, crack!"


    The massive stone began to fracture under the pressure, a testament to the beast''s immense strength.


    Sekong retracted his gaze from the white-robed man and instead looked at the armored beast with a hint of disdain in his eyes.


    He then turned away, ignoring the armored beast entirely, and the beast, in turn, seemed to understand that it could not afford to provoke Sekong.


    "Snap!"


    The white-robed man''s fingers suddenly made a crisp sound as the fingers he had been using for calctions snapped apart.


    The white-robed man frowned and slowly opened his eyes.


    "Granduncle Master, did you figure it out?" Sekong immediately asked.


    The white-robed man didn''t seem to notice Sekong''s scheming thoughts. He slowly stood up and shook his head.


    "Zhongshan has somehow managed to obscure the heavenly secrets. His methods seem simr to those of the Sage Mi Tian, making him difficult to calcte. However," the white-robed man paused, his expression turning cold.


    "However, what?" Sekong asked eagerly, his toneced with ttery.


    In the Thousand Worlds, Sekong had been known for his cunning and ability to say the right things to the right people. He knew how to tter those he could use to his advantage.


    "But it has already been confirmed: your other Granduncle Master, Yan Hui, was indeed killed by Zhongshan," the white-robed man said coldly.


    "The rumors are true then. Granduncle Master, you didn''t bring me to the Fengzhong Territory just to avenge Master Yan, did you?" Sekong asked, frowning slightly.


    "Your father, Kong Lietian, was killed by Zhongshan. Don''t you want to avenge him?" the white-robed man responded, his voice icy.


    "No, that''s not what I meant. My father''s death is an unpardonable crime��I''d never shirk my duty for revenge. It''s just that I know I''m not yet a match for Zhongshan. I want to hone my skills first, so that when I strike, I can make him pay in full," Sekong quickly exined.


    "There''s no need to wait��you''ll have your chance soon," the white-robed man said sternly.


    "But, Granduncle Master, Zhongshan is very peculiar, extremely peculiar," Sekong quickly objected.


    "With me, ''Zilu,'' by your side, no one can harm you. I will protect you," the white-robed man, Zilu, reassured.


    "No, Granduncle Master, that''s not what I meant. What I''m saying is that it''s not just Zhongshan''s strength that concerns me��he''s extraordinarily cunning. He always seems to turn misfortune into fortune, and every time I''ve crossed paths with him, I end up suffering..." Sekong began to exin again, but Zilu interrupted him.


    "Do you doubt my power?" Zilu''s face darkened slightly.


    "No, of course not. How could I doubt the strength of you, one of the top three Grand Immortals among the seventy-two disciples of our Great Ancestor? It''s just that Zhongshan... well, alright, I''ll follow your lead," Sekong conceded, feeling somewhat helpless.


    Sekong thought it over. Despite all the exaggerated rumors about Zhongshan, he had indeed emerged from the Thousand Worlds. If Zilu, a Grand Immortal, wanted to challenge Zhongshan, so be it. At least this would give them a chance to test Zhongshan''s true strength. If Zhongshan was defeated, it would be a great relief. If danger arose, Sekong was determined to flee at the first opportunity.


    As for facing Zhongshan himself��Sekong wouldn''t do it, not even if his life depended on it. When the time came, he''d find any excuse, even feigning illness if necessary, to avoid the confrontation.


    "Hmm," Zilu nodded in satisfaction.


    "So, Granduncle Master, when will we make our move?" Sekong asked immediately.


    "No need to rush. Yan Hui died here, so I''ll first build a tomb for him and spend a few days with him," Zilu said solemnly.


    Not only had Confucius cherished Yan Hui, but Zilu and Yan Hui had also shared a close bond. With Yan Hui''s death, it was only natural for Zilu to honor him with a proper memorial.


    Sekong, though his expression remained respectful, felt indifferent internally. Since it didn''t directly concern him, he couldn''t care less.


    Over four months passed.


    In the southern skies of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, more than a thousand figures flew through the air.


    Leading them was a figure riding on wind and fire wheels, carrying a golden longbow on his back and wielding a fire-tipped spear��it was Nezha. The others were his subordinates.


    "Third Prince, ahead is Lingxiao Heavenly Court," said a man in golden armor behind Nezha.


    Nezha halted, and everyone else stopped as well. Staring at the resplendent Lingxiao Heavenly Court, a fierce anger shed in Nezha''s eyes. Meanwhile, the shadow on his forehead grew darker, even emitting wisps of ck qi that seemed to influence his very soul.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 980: Zhao Suoxiang vs. Nezha

    <h4>Chapter 980: Zhao Suoxiang vs. Nezha</h4>


    **Lingxiao Heavenly Court!**


    Corpse Mister and Luo Xingchen had returned to Lingxiao Heavenly Court early, knowing that Yi Yan never spoke without reason. After meeting with Zhongshan, they had both remained vignt, preparing for any potential threat.


    On this particr day, as Corpse Mister was discussing strategies with Luo Xingchen and others on how to confront the enemy, his pupils suddenly contracted.


    "What''s wrong?" Luo Xingchen asked, sensing something unusual.


    "My ''Corpse Eye'' outside Lingxiao Heavenly Court has spotted something��the enemy has arrived!" Corpse Mister said in a deep voice.


    At this, the expressions of Luo Xingchen, Zhao Suoxiang, and the others turned serious.


    "They''reing from the south!" Corpse Mister pointed in a specific direction.


    The Longevity Hall was the highest point in Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Standing on the front za, one could see far into the distance in all directions.


    Following Corpse Mister''s direction, the group looked south.


    Luo Xingchen, with his ancient immortal cultivation and expertise in archery, had the sharpest eyesight among them. He could see much farther than the others.


    From afar, they saw a group of figures flying toward them. Luo Xingchen''s keen eyes quickly discerned more details.


    "They''re here! Notify the Holy King!" Luo Xingchen ordered one of his subordinates.


    "Yes!" the subordinate responded and hurried off.


    In the distance, Nezha flew toward the southern gate of Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Upon seeing it, he stopped, his eyes shing with ferocity as ck qi seeped from the center of his brow.


    "Third Prince, should we charge in?" the golden-armored man behind Nezha asked.


    Nezha fixed his gaze on the central and highest structure of Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the Longevity Hall, or more precisely, the que above its entrance.


    Just as the "Lingxiao Treasure Hall" of the Jade Emperor and the "Crystal Pce" of the Dragon King represented their respective realms, this que symbolized the face of an entire empire.


    Nezha''s first target was this que.


    Standing on his wind and fire wheels, Nezha put away his fire-tipped spear and reached for the golden longbow on his back.


    The golden bow had no arrows, yet as he drew it back, vast amounts of energy began to gather from the void, gradually forming a golden arrow. This arrow seemed to carry an overwhelming might, and Nezha loosed it straight toward the que of the Longevity Hall.


    As the arrow shot forth, the void trembled, and terrifying currents of air formed a storm in the arrow''s wake.


    Before the Longevity Hall, seeing Nezha''s arrow, Luo Xingchen quickly nocked an arrow to his own bow and shot it out��a golden arrow of his own creation.


    In an instant, Luo Xingchen''s arrow met Nezha''s in midair, their tips colliding with a force that sent shockwaves through the sky.


    Nezha''s arrow continued its trajectory toward the que, clearly having overpowered Luo Xingchen''s arrow in the sh.


    But Luo Xingchen wasn''t done. Like a straight line drawn in the air, eight more arrows shot forth from his bow, each aimed precisely at the tip of Nezha''s arrow.


    "Boom!" "Boom!" "Boom!" ... The arrows collided, one after another, in a series of explosive impacts.


    Nine arrows in total��Luo Xingchen''s mastery of archery had truly reached an unparalleled level.


    With the ninth arrow, Nezha''s arrow was finally exhausted, dissipating just outside Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "What a powerful bow!" Luo Xingchen gasped in shock.


    With just one draw of his bow, Nezha had conjured an arrow out of thin air that required Luo Xingchen to shoot nine of his own just to neutralize it.


    "The Xuanyuan Bow, a treasured artifact of the Li family, is in the hands of Nezha?" Zhongshan''s voice suddenly rang out beside Luo Xingchen.


    As Zhongshan arrived, arge group of ministers also gathered on the Longevity Hall''s za, all turning their gazes toward the distant group of figures.


    "Nezha? Does the Holy King know them?" Yi Yan asked, puzzled.


    "A disciple of Taiyi Zhenren, possessing a lotus root body," Zhongshan exined with a slight shake of his head.


    "Holy King, I request permission to go and capture Nezha for you!" Luo Xingchen immediately volunteered.


    "Taiyi is just an Ancient Immortal, and Nezha should only be a Great Immortal. Although Nezha is impulsive, he''s not mindless," Zhongshan mused aloud.


    "Hmm?" The ministers were unsure of Zhongshan''s meaning.


    "Zhao Suoxiang!" Zhongshan called out.


    "Your servant is here!" Zhao Suoxiang immediately responded.


    "Imand you to engage in battle!" Zhongshan ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhao Suoxiang responded, a hint of excitement in his voice.


    With a powerful stride, Zhao Suoxiang, dressed in a white robe and wielding a silver spear, charged forward.


    "Luo Xingchen, go with him and provide support in case of any unforeseen circumstances," Zhongshan instructed.


    "Understood!" Luo Xingchen nodded and followed Zhao Suoxiang.


    As the two flew off, Zhongshan and the ministers remained on the za, awaiting the oue of the confrontation. Nezha was a Great Immortal, but Zhao Suoxiang was only at the Heavenly Immortal stage��was the Holy King being too rash in sending Zhao Suoxiang?


    In the distance, Nezha''s arrow had been intercepted mid-air by Luo Xingchen''s Nine Stars in a Row technique.


    Nezha''s expression changed slightly, and the people behind him were equally surprised. The Xuanyuan Bow had never been thwarted before��how could anyone intercept an arrow from it?


    As Zhao Suoxiang and Luo Xingchen flew closer, Nezha stared intently at Luo Xingchen, the ck qi at his brow thickening, his eyes gradually reddening.


    "Great Zhen, Zhao Suoxiang! I challenge you!" Zhao Suoxiang called out as he approached.


    "You use a spear too?" Nezha asked, slightly surprised. After all, spear wielders were quite rare.


    "I only use the spear!" Zhao Suoxiang replied firmly.


    "Li Qi, you go!" Nezha ordered.


    "Yes!" a golden-armored warrior behind Nezha responded.


    The warrior, wielding arge de, charged forward, bringing the de down with a brilliant sh of golden light.


    "ng!"


    "Rip!"


    With a single thrust, Zhao Suoxiang deflected the golden-armored warrior''s de and pierced his corbone with his spear.


    Li Qi, defeated!


    "Is this all you''ve got?" Zhao Suoxiang sneered.


    "We didn''te here for a friendly spar. All of you, attack together!" Nezhamanded angrily.


    "Third Prince?" The wounded golden-armored warrior looked at Nezha in confusion. It waspletely out of character for Nezha to give such an order��had his mind truly changed?


    Despite their doubts, the others quickly obeyed Nezha''smand and swarmed toward Zhao Suoxiang.


    Zhao Suoxiang showed no fear. With a sweep of his long spear, countless spear shadows filled the sky. Zhao Suoxiang, a peerless warrior with unmatched spear skills, was unstoppable with his weapon in hand.


    "Boom, boom, boom...!"


    In the sky, Zhao Suoxiang''s figure was everywhere, fighting one against a thousand. Even though nearly a hundred of his opponents were Heavenly Immortals, Zhao Suoxiang was undaunted. Back in the Small Thousand Worlds, Zhao Suoxiang had faced ten thousand monkey warriors of the same rank, so how could he fear these soldiers?


    Zhao Suoxiang was the kind of warrior who grew stronger with greater opposition. After more than half an hour of intense battle, he was still unscathed, while over half of the thousand golden-armored warriors were injured, forced into retreat. One man was suppressing a thousand warriors.


    Above Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Yi Yan and the others couldn''t help but exim, "Zhao Suoxiang truly lives up to his name as a peerless warrior! Watching such a fierce battle stirs the blood!"


    In the distance, Nezha''s eyes grew redder, and the ck qi at his brow thickened. Seeing Zhao Suoxiang utterly defeat his subordinates only fueled his anger.


    Nezha chose not to use the Xuanyuan Bow again, having noticed that the still figure across from him was clearly prepared to counter it. It was as if that person wouldn''t make a move unless Nezha used the bow. But Nezha had plenty of other treasures at his disposal.


    With a bend of his arm, the Universe Ring (Qiankun Circle) on Nezha''s wrist suddenly flew out, hurtling toward Zhao Suoxiang.


    "Boom!"


    A loud crash echoed as Zhao Suoxiang''s figure staggered slightly. At this moment, the golden-armored warriors all stopped in their tracks, looking at Nezha in bewilderment. A sneak attack? How could this be? Nezha had never resorted to such tactics before. Was he still the towering hero they had always admired?


    "I''ll take you on myself!" Nezha shouted, lifting his fire-tipped spear as he charged forward.


    With a downward strike, the spear cut through the air, creating two massive waves that surged toward Zhao Suoxiang.


    "Boom!"


    The two spears collided in the void, with Zhao Suoxiang''s silver spear bending slightly under the pressure.


    The scene was at a standstill, with Nezha seemingly overpowering Zhao Suoxiang.


    Veins bulged on Zhao Suoxiang''s hands, and rather than retreating, he pushed back with all his might.


    "A mere Heavenly Immortal? I''ve killed countless of your kind. Do you seek death as well?" Nezha''s voice was cold, as he applied more force, sending a powerful shockwave in all directions.


    Zhao Suoxiang gritted his teeth, refusing to utter a sound, even as the veins on his forehead bulged.


    "Roar!"


    With a thunderous roar, Zhao Suoxiang suddenly forced Nezha''s spear back.


    Nezha''s fire-tipped spear was knocked back, and his expression showed a hint of surprise.


    At that moment, Zhao Suoxiang''s aura surged, his muscles swelling, as if his entire body had grownrger.


    "A breakthrough? A breakthrough in the midst of battle?" The ministers of Lingxiao Heavenly Court eximed in surprise.


    They finally understood why Zhongshan had chosen Zhao Suoxiang to face Nezha. Zhao Suoxiang had broken through a bottleneck during the battle. The admiration in the ministers'' eyes for Zhongshan deepened further.


    Meanwhile, in a distant valley below Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Sekong, Zilu, and the armored beast watched the battle in the sky.


    "This man is called Zhao Suoxiang? What a peerless warrior! He''s like Bai Qi of Great Qin, a war god born solely for battle. Zhongshan is truly fortunate!" Zilu remarked.


    "A war god?" Sekong echoed in surprise.


    "Such individuals are rare, but once they appear, they are invincible among their peers, capable of fighting across levels!" Zilu exined.


    Sekong nodded in understanding but still felt a chill in his bones. Zhongshan was right above them��should he stay or flee?


    In the sky, Nezha looked at Zhao Suoxiang with a mix of surprise and interest.


    "You used my momentum to break through? Impressive. But it''s a pity, no one has ever bested me in spear technique. Great Immortal or not, I''ve in countless of your kind!" Nezha dered.


    "Spear technique? You''ve just been using it longer than I have, but I am not inferior to you!" Zhao Suoxiang suddenly asserted confidently.


    "Arrogant fool! Take this!" Nezha shouted.


    With a flourish of his fire-tipped spear, the sky was filled with what seemed like fire dragons, surging toward Zhao Suoxiang.


    Zhao Suoxiang responded with a simple, direct spear thrust, without conjuring any beast-shaped qi, meeting Nezha''s attack head-on.


    "Boom, boom, boom!"


    The sky erupted into chaos as the two engaged in a fierce battle. The dazzling spear techniques enveloped them both, and the powerful energy sts created torrents that rippled through the air. Everyone below paused whatever they were doing, captivated by this rare and intense sh.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 981: Thirty

    <h4>Chapter 981: Thirty</h4>


    Zhao Suoxiang vs. Nezha!


    No one knew where Nezha had suddenly appeared from, nor did they know who Nezha was. They only knew that he was fighting Zhao Suoxiang, and that made him an enemy of the Da Yin Empire. The spectators were deeply worried for Zhao Suoxiang, wishing they could somehow help him defeat Nezha with a single strike.


    For a time, the brilliant aura from the spear filled the battlefield. Nezha, however, began to show signs of frustration. His own Fire-Tipped Spear seemed unable to overpower Zhao Suoxiang.


    As the ck mist around Nezha''s brow thickened, his agitation grew. Suddenly, his Red Armiry Sash flew out, followed by the reappearance of the Universe Ring and the flying golden brick. In a fit of rage, Nezha''s body underwent a dramatic transformation, sprouting two additional heads and six arms.


    Three heads and eight arms��one pair wielding the Fire-Tipped Spear, another pair holding the Red Armiry Sash, yet another gripping the Universe Ring, and thest pair clutching the golden brick.


    The sudden transformation shocked the crowd. Could this person turn into a monster?


    With the addition of his three magical weapons, Nezha''sbat power increased significantly, giving him a clear advantage. Zhao Suoxiang, however, remained calm, wielding his single spear. As Nezha with his three heads and eight arms pressed the attack, Zhao Suoxiang countered each weapon in turn��sometimes facing the Fire-Tipped Spear, sometimes the golden brick, then the Universe Ring, and finally the Red Armiry Sash.


    Zhao Suoxiang had to employ different techniques with his spear for each magical weapon. Yet, after a stick of incense time, he had be ustomed to Nezha''s assault. Strangely enough, he began to shift from a position of being suppressed to gradually gaining the upper hand.


    "Future War God, truly living up to his name!" Zilu remarked in a deep voice from a distance.


    Zilu could see that Nezha was at the peak of the Great Immortal realm, while Zhao Suoxiang had only recently broken through into it. Despite this disparity, Zhao Suoxiang managed to gain the advantage. How could Zilu not be amazed?


    The people of Da Yin cheered enthusiastically.


    "Impossible! No one can surpass my spear skills, especially not someone who just entered the Great Immortal realm!" Nezha cried out in disbelief.


    By this time, Zhao Suoxiang was fighting with ease.


    "Because you are not loyal to the spear!" Zhao Suoxiang said calmly as they continued to fight.


    "Loyal to the spear?" Nezha paused, staring at Zhao Suoxiang in confusion.


    "I only use the spear; it is a part of me. But you rely on many magical weapons. Each one is powerful, but you don''t master any of them! I''ve already broken through to the Great Immortal realm. You are no match for me. Surrender now, and I will plead with the Holy King to spare your life!" Zhao Suoxiang said loudly.


    Out of righteousness, Zhao Suoxiang felt a sense of mercy toward Nezha. After all, it was due to Nezha that he had achieved his breakthrough, so he was inclined to show leniency.


    "Surrender? In your dreams! No one has the right to make me surrender!" Nezha roared in fury. The main pair of eyes turnedpletely red.


    A massive amount of ck mist surged from Nezha''s brow, as if he had be a different person.


    He charged at Zhao Suoxiang with renewed madness.


    Zhao Suoxiang once again suppressed Nezha with his spear.


    The ck mist on Nezha''s face thickened.


    Gradually, a faint symbol began to emerge from Nezha''s forehead.


    "Thirty?" Master Shi suddenly eximed in surprise.


    "Yes, it''s Thirty!" Zhong Shan replied with a serious expression.


    Thirty.


    Zhong Shan recalled the corpse of the Sage from the small thousand world, where a simr symbol, formed from ck mist, had appeared on the Sage''s forehead. It was the same "Thirty" that now appeared on Nezha''s brow.


    Suddenly, the symbol "Thirty" covered Nezha''s face, and more of the same symbols emerged on his body and arms. With the appearance of these symbols, a massive amount of ck mist erupted from Nezha''s body.


    ChatGPT


    <strong>Nezha''s power surged instantly.</strong>


    The terrifying outpour of strength immediately disrupted Zhao Suoxiang''s suppression, flipping the situation once more in Nezha''s favor. His fierce onught began to overpower Zhao Suoxiang, turning the tide of the battle.


    "Shishu-zu, what is that?" Sekong asked Zilu, who was standing nearby.


    "A cursed seal," Zilu replied, squinting his eyes.


    "A cursed seal?"


    "Someone has sealed this ''cursed seal'' within Nezha''s body. This kind of curse can draw on Nezha''s vitality, potential, and lifespan to enhance his power. However, the cursed seal also alters a person''s nature, and it seems that Nezha has been changed by it, now under its control," Zilu said in a deep, serious tone.


    Indeed, Nezha''s strength continued to grow, reaching what seemed like the level of an Ancient Immortal.


    With each powerful strike, Nezha became more reckless, and to those watching, he seemed like an entirely different person, as if he were being controlled.


    "Hahahaha! Hahahaha!" Nezhaughed wildly, fully immersed in the battle.


    Zhao Suoxiang, on the other hand, was forced to retreat, though he managed to avoid serious injury. He had realized that Nezha had lost his sanity, fighting mechanically with the experience he had umted over hundreds of thousands of years. However, Nezha''s immense power made it difficult for Zhao Suoxiang to find an opening.


    "Third Prince, Third Prince, please be alright!"


    "Senior, please save the Third Prince! This isn''t who he really is. I beg you, help him!" A group of golden-armored warriors pleaded with Luo Xingchen, clearly recognizing that Nezha was no longer in control of himself.


    Had the evil energy broken through the seal?


    "Enough!" came a voice from the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan''s voice.


    "Swoosh!"


    Following Zhong Shan''smand, Luo Xingchen suddenly moved, disappearing from his previous position and reappearing next to Nezha, where he gently pressed a finger against Nezha''s brow.


    "Time Reversal!"


    The ck mist on Nezha''s body swiftly retreated back into his brow, and his three heads and eight arms vanished, returning him to his original form.


    However, perhaps due to the excessive energy drained by the cursed seal, Nezha fainted on the spot.


    "Senior, please spare the Third Prince!" The golden-armored warriors rushed over and pleaded.


    They knew that this ce was far from the Four Great Continents, and with Nezha now captured, they had no other options but to beg for mercy.


    But Luo Xingchen and Zhao Suoxiang paid them no heed as they carried Nezha toward the Longevity Hall.


    The golden-armored warriors, treading carefully, followed. When they arrived at the Southern Heavenly Gate, they were disarmed and had their cultivation sealed by Da Yin soldiers before being escorted to the za in front of the Longevity Hall.


    In the Longevity Hall''s za, Nezhay unconscious before the gathered crowd. Master Shi squatted down to examine him.


    The seal had broken, and the ck mist that Luo Xingchen had just reversed began to emerge once more. The "Thirty" symbols reappeared all over Nezha''s body.


    "King Zhong, we deserve to die for our sins! Please, save the Third Prince!" The golden-armored warriors, brought in earlier, immediately knelt before Zhong Shan, begging for mercy.


    "What is your purpose here?" Zhong Shan asked in a grave tone.


    The golden-armored warriors fell silent. How could they exin? They hade to trouble Zhong Shan, but could they say that?


    Perhaps out of concern for Nezha, the lead golden-armored warrior quickly responded, "King Zhong, we were in the wrong. The Third Prince came to avenge his master. But this time, the Third Prince is behaving very strangely, as if he''s being controlled. Normally, he would report to the Jade Emperor before leaving the Four Great Continents, but he didn''t this time. It must be due to the ck mist! Please, King Zhong, show mercy and save the Third Prince!"


    <strong>The group had just witnessed Luo Xingchen sessfully suppress the ck mist, so they ced all their hopes on Zhong Shan. However, knowing they had been disrespectful earlier, they could only continue to apologize profusely.</strong>


    "Eighth Princess! That''s right, the Eighth Princess! King Zhong, we''ve heard that the Eighth Princess has some ties with you. Over the past century, the Third Prince has helped the Eighth Princess many times. For her sake, please save the Third Prince!" another warrior pleaded.


    "The Eighth Princess?" Zhong Shan asked in a deep voice.


    "Yes, the ''Hao Meili'' Princess who was brought back from Fengzhong Territory. That''s her!" the warriors continued to beg.


    Meanwhile, Master Shi, who had been observing Nezha, stood up and looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Holy King, that Sage''s corpse has regained some of its intelligence. The cursed seal within Nezha was ced by it!" Master Shi said gravely.


    "So, it has finally revived?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "It''s only regained some intelligence. Whether it''s the same intelligence as the original Sage, we cannot be sure," Master Shi shook his head.


    "How did the cursed seal end up in Nezha''s body?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Forgive me, King Zhong, but the Third Prince had it after returning from the Sacred Corpse Mountain. We originally thought that the Third Prince had managed to seal the evil energy, but it seems there was more to it," one of the golden-armored warriors exined.


    "The Sacred Corpse Mountain?" Zhong Shan queried.


    "Yes, it''s where the Biyou Pce of the Tongtian Sage once stood. Now, it''s shrouded in corpse energy, and no one can enter. Anyone who goes in neveres out. Only the Third Prince entered and then came out, but we didn''t expect..." the golden-armored warrior trailed off in distress.


    "Biyou Pce?" Zhong Shan''s voice was low.


    "Yes, it seems that the Sage''s corpse turned into a zombie. The Third Prince mentioned that the reanimated corpse of the Sage called itself ''Thirty''," the golden-armored warrior responded.


    "It''s called ''Thirty''?" Zhong Shan asked with suspicion.


    "Yes!" The warrior did not dare hide anything.


    "Master Shi, can you force out the internal cursed seal?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "If it were any other cursed seal, I might be powerless, but since it was left by that Sage''s corpse, I happen to have a method," Master Shi suddenly said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    Master Shi then produced a nail.


    A coffin nail? Zhong Shan recognized it immediately. This was one of the nails from the coffin that once held the Sage''s corpse, a nail meant to seal the Sage''s body, and it was no ordinary item.


    Back when the coffin left the Small Thousand World, there were ten coffin nails. Zhong Neen had obtained five, Ren Zun had acquired two, and Master Shi had the remaining three.


    "Then proceed," Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!"


    Master Shi drove the coffin nail into Nezha''s forehead. Then, he began to perform a spell, slowly withdrawing the nail. As the nail was removed, a cloud of ck mist emerged from Nezha''s brow.


    Master Shi quickly captured the ck mist in a small bottle.


    "The extraction isplete!" Master Shi reported promptly.


    "Good." Zhong Shan nodded, showing no intention of taking the bottle, which Master Shi naturally kept.


    "Thank you, King Zhong! Thank you so much!" The golden-armored warriors were deeply moved.


    "Although you were not the ones I was expecting,ing to Da Yin to cause trouble cannot go unpunished. Leave this bow behind. Luo Xingchen, seal Nezha and let them take him back to Haotian," Zhong Shan ordered.


    This was Zhong Shan giving Haotian some face and repaying an old favor from the time of the creation of the world.


    "Yes!" Luo Xingchen immediately responded and swiftly sealed Nezha.


    "Da Yin has only one divine archer, so this bow will be entrusted to you," Zhong Shan said to Luo Xingchen.


    "Thank you, Holy King!" Luo Xingchen was deeply touched. He had coveted the bow for some time.


    The golden-armored warriors dared not show their anger. The divine bow was a possession of the Li family��how would they exin this upon their return? However, the fact that the Third Prince could return, and that the evil energy had been extracted, was a blessing amid the misfortune. The warriors didn''t know whether to thank Zhong Shan or to resent him.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 982: Zhong Shan Angers Zilu

    <h4>Chapter 982: Zhong Shan Angers Zilu</h4>


    After dealing with Nezha, Zhong Shan didn''t rx. Instead, he nced around, his voice calm butmanding, "Come out. Do you really want me to invite you personally?"


    As soon as Zhong Shan spoke, the officials of Da Yin immediately went on high alert. The Holy King''s words were never baseless; since he had spoken, it meant that a real enemy had arrived.


    Zhong Shan stood at the forefront of his ministers, calmly gazing southward.


    Towards a certain valley in the south.


    Sekong was visibly startled.


    "Shishu-zu, how did Zhong Shan discover us? Didn''t you use the Heavenly Dao to conceal our presence?" Sekong asked nervously.


    Zilu furrowed his brows, clearly also puzzled by how Zhong Shan had detected them. Within the Heavenly Dao, it should have been impossible for anyone below the Ancestral Immortal level to sense them. What Zilu didn''t realize was that it was precisely because they were hidden within the Heavenly Dao that Zhong Shan noticed them.


    Zilu and Sekong had concealed themselves well. The Heavenly Dao was formless; anyone below the Ancestral Immortal level would be unable to detect it. Even among Ancestral Immortals, those with weaker cultivation might not notice it if they practiced a different Heavenly Dao. However, Zhong Shan was different. His Hongluan Heavenly Sutra had reached the ninth level, and with the manifestation of the Heavenly Dao, he could see the immense presence of the Heavenly Dao in that direction at a nce.


    How could Zhong Shan pretend not to notice something so obvious? It was like a bright moon in the dark night, so ringly apparent!


    Realizing they had been discovered, Zilu waved his hand and soared into the sky, emerging outside the Southern Heavenly Gate. He stood in the void, coldly staring at Zhong Shan in the distance.


    Their gazes locked from afar. Zhong Shan once again faced off against an Ancestral Immortal.


    "Zilu? The disciple of Confucius, Zilu?" one of Nezha''s subordinates recognized him immediately.


    As they flew through the air, Sekong couldn''t help butin, "Shishu-zu, why not just find an opportunity to kill Zhong Shan? Why give him the chance to face off with you?"


    Zilu looked at Sekong with a stern expression, "Do you think I, Zilu, am the kind of person who resorts to sneak attacks? Do you think I need to ambush someone like him��a mere Great Immortal?"


    Zilu''s character was upright, disdainful of such tactics. But Sekong, pouting, was unimpressed by Zilu''s righteousness.


    "Yes, I was wrong. Shishu-zu is a noble gentleman, open and straightforward! I will follow your lead!" Sekong quickly conceded.


    "Very well. In that case, do you want to avenge your father, Kong Lietian? You''ve obtained a lot of magical weapons from the family; you should be able to fight Zhong Shan," Zilu suggested.


    "Fight Zhong Shan?" Sekong was suddenly struck by fear.


    He turned to look at Zhong Shan in the distance. Zhong Shan''s expression was calm as he looked at the two men and their beast. The moment Sekong met Zhong Shan''s gaze, a sudden and intense feeling of danger welled up inside him, causing the hair on the back of his neck to stand on end.


    That feeling again? Sekong''s forehead broke out in a cold sweat.


    "Well? What''s your decision?" Zilu asked.


    Zilu had clearly already "seen through" Zhong Shan, having judged Zhong Shan''s "strength" from a nce.


    "Maybe not..." Sekong responded, his face showing a hint of bitterness.


    "What do you mean, ''maybe not''? Don''t you want to avenge your father?" Zilu''s eyes widened in displeasure.


    "Oh no, my old ailment is acting up again. Shishu-zu, my stomach is hurting again. Why now? I really wanted to avenge my father, but my stomach just won''t cooperate. I hate it!" Sekong wailed.


    Zilu: ".........!"


    Looking at Sekong''s current state, Zilu didn''t know what to say about this disciple of the Kong family. Even the iron-armored beast behind them cast a look of disdain at Sekong.


    Zilu had long heard that Sekong was... unique, but he never expected him toe up with such a flimsy excuse at this critical moment. This wasn''t just a matter of his character; it was an issue of personal dignity.


    <strong>Zilu had led such a grand expedition to seek vengeance, yet Sekong imed he had a stomachache.</strong>


    "Shishu-zu, how about you handle the fight first? I''ll find a ce to rest. Once you''ve killed Zhong Shan, I''ll meet you back at the city where west rested. I''ll be waiting for you there!" Sekong suggested, eager to slip away. The situation with Zhong Shan was simply too uncanny. Even when facing an opponent who was already an Ancestral Immortal, why did Sekong still have this instinct to avoid him?


    A monster! You''re even more monstrous than I am!


    After speaking, Sekong prepared to fly off.


    "Stop!" Zilu''s voice thundered.


    His face was filled with frustration and disappointment��how could a disciple of the Confucian sect behave like this?


    "Shishu-zu, I really..." Sekong tried to excuse himself again.


    "Endure it! What kind of behavior is this?" Zilu''s patience was wearing thin. Had he known this would happen, he wouldn''t have brought this troublesome character along.


    "Alright, Shishu-zu, but you must protect me. I''m thest remaining descendant of this lineage!" Sekong finally voiced his true concern.


    Realizing he couldn''t escape, Sekong resigned himself to the situation.


    Zilu felt as though the gentlemanly demeanor he had cultivated over hundreds of thousands of years was being exhausted by Sekong. He turned away, refusing to look at Sekong any longer. What a disgrace!


    Sekong, however, obediently hid behind Zilu.


    At the entrance to the Longevity Hall in the distance, Zhong Shan had grown more serious upon learning the identity of Zilu, and he began to piece together the reasons for their presence.


    From his earlier use of Heavenly Dao power, Zhong Shan was certain that Zilu had been the one tracking him.


    The enmity with the Confucian sect was now deeply rooted, and Zhong Shan knew it was irreversible. However, he hadn''t expected that the Confucian sect would send an Ancestral Immortal so soon.


    And that man who bore a striking resemnce to Kong Lietian��at the moment Zhong Shan saw him, he knew who it was. That familiar, sleazy demeanor that always appeared whenever they crossed paths��it could only be Sekong!


    Sekong? Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed slightly. Sleazy? Others might think Sekong was just sleazy, but Zhong Shan knew better. Behind that facade was a formidable figure, someone who could endure long enough to eliminate Kong Lietian and deceive even the Sage Confucius. Could such a person be taken lightly?


    "Xiaojin Beast!" Master Shi spoke gravely.


    "Holy King, be careful of that Xiaojin Beast. It ranks twentieth among the most powerful beasts in the Grand Thousand World. Its voice can shatter stone and sever gold, and it''s a fully grown adult. Its sonic attacks can even harness a trace of the Heavenly Dao''s power!" Master Shi warned with extreme caution.


    "Twentieth?" Zhong Shan immediately grew more cautious.


    Not only could it harness the power of the Heavenly Dao, but its ranking alone was enough to make Zhong Shan take it seriously.


    An Ancestral Immortal and a Xiaojin Beast capable of manipting a trace of the Heavenly Dao''s power��this was no ordinary confrontation.


    "Are you Zilu of the Confucian sect?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "Yes. Are you the one who killed Yan Hui and Kong Lietian?" Zilu stood in the air, coldly staring at Zhong Shan.


    Zilu prided himself on his gentlemanly demeanor, preferring to engage in a formal confrontation rather thanunching a sneak attack. This was what led to the current standoff. If Sekong had the strength, he wouldn''t have bothered with such formalities. He would have already ambushed Da Yin if he could.


    Yan Hui had indeed been killed by Zhong Shan, and as for Kong Lietian, Zhong Shan had only done half the job��the other half was up to Sekong.


    Zhong Shan''s gaze shifted to Sekong, whose fear only deepened. He retreated even further, ignoring Zilu entirely this time.


    Zilu felt a deep sense of shame as he stood at the forefront. He couldn''t even bring himself to turn around. With him, an Ancestral Immortal, and a Xiaojin Beast present, what was there to fear?


    Sekong, seeing that Zilu didn''t stop him this time, abandoned all pretense of etiquette and took off without looking back. Zilu, though wanting to stop him, realized that doing so would only further damage his own dignity. It was simply too embarrassing!


    In the blink of an eye, Sekong was gone, leaving behind a trail of dust.


    The situation grew awkward. The officials of Da Yin exchanged surprised nces, witnessing Sekong''s hasty departure. Zilu was left seething in silence, utterly frustrated with Sekong, while Zhong Shan turned his attention back to Zilu.


    "Confucius once said, ''How should one repay virtue? Repay virtue with virtue, and repay enmity with justice!'' Yan Hui ambushed me��how should I respond to that? I could only strike back and kill him. Kong Lietian and I contended for the world; our duel was a matter of life and death, determined by fate. What do you think, Zilu?" Zhong Shan countered.


    Having opposed Confucius and the Confucian sect, Zhong Shan had naturally studied the teachings of its disciples, including Zilu. Zilu was known for embodying the gentlemanly spirit passed down by Confucius.


    Given this, Zhong Shan used the same gentlemanly logic to counter Zilu, positioning himself on the side of righteousness and challenging Zilu''s sense of honor.


    Sure enough, Zilu was momentarily taken aback by Zhong Shan''s response. Confucius had indeed said those words, so how could Zilu contradict them without discrediting his master?


    "You actually understand our Confucian teachings!" Zilu''s face darkened.


    "The teachings of the Confucian sect are vast and profound; I am deeply impressed. But as a disciple of Confucius, do you have any objections to what I''ve just said?" Zhong Shan pressed further.


    This was Zhong Shan''s way of questioning whether Zilu agreed with his actions in killing Kong Lietian and Yan Hui. Would Zilu, in the name of righteousness, side with him?


    This put Zilu in a difficult position. On one side was personal vengeance, on the other, the principles of justice. He could afford to lose neither.


    Zilu hadn''t anticipated Zhong Shan being so skilled in debate. His eyelids twitched as he maintained his gentlemanly demeanor and said, "Yan Hui died by your hand, as did Kong Lietian. So, I would like to see just how capable you are, Zhong Shan!"


    "Just to test my capabilities?" Zhong Shan suddenly smiled.


    "Just a test!" Zilu replied. How could he admit that it was for revenge? Zhong Shan had already separated revenge from righteousness, and to maintain his sense of honor, Zilu couldn''t openly dere it as vengeance.


    "You, an Ancestral Immortal, and I, a Great Immortal��we''re two realms apart. Even if I were to lose, it wouldn''t be shameful. In terms of power, I concede defeat. Is that satisfactory to you?" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Zilu: "...!"


    Zilu was stunned. Concede defeat? How was that possible? If this had been a private conversation, Zhong Shan might have conceded, but this was said in front of the entire Da Yin empire. Was he not afraid of losing face in front of his people?


    How could a reigning king say such a thing? Wasn''t he afraid his people would look down on him?


    Zilu was left speechless, unsure how to proceed. He simply hadn''t expected Zhong Shan to have such thick skin, to admit defeat so openly in front of the entire Da Yin nation.


    How could this be? Zilu finally understood what Sekong meant by Zhong Shan being "uncanny."


    Would Zhong Shan lose credibility with the world? Of course not. A Great Immortal going up against an Ancestral Immortal was practically suicide. The people would naturally see it as reasonable. Any disappointment in Zhong Shan''s cultivation would be dispelled by the fact that he had once fought Old Ancestor Xuemei to a standstill, leaving Xuemei gravely wounded. That was an undeniable fact.


    Zhong Shan''s admission of defeat simply meant that he saw no point in engaging with Zilu.


    "Since you, Zilu, have already imed victory, you may as well return from whence you came!" Zhong Shan made a dismissive gesture.


    Zilu: "...!"


    The officials of Da Yin, caught in the tense atmosphere, couldn''t help but feel their faces twitch, stifling the urge tough. At the same time, they couldn''t help but admire the Holy King''s logic��every word he spoke was a trap, step by step drawing this "gentlemanly" Zilu into a corner.


    Righteousness demanded that Zilu leave immediately, that he not cause any more trouble. With a few words, Zhong Shan had blocked all paths of righteousness for Zilu.


    If Zilu wanted to maintain his gentlemanly demeanor, he would have to leave. If he wanted to continue the fight, he would have to shed that gentlemanly facade. In other words, if Zilu made a move, he would lose��at the very least, his reputation as a gentleman would be tarnished.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 983: Awakening the God-Child

    <h4>Chapter 983: Awakening the God-Child</h4>


    Zilu stared at Zhong Shan from afar, feeling a rare frustration. It had been a long time since he had encountered such a difficult opponent, especially one with such a low level of cultivation.


    He desperately wanted to avenge Yan Hui��could he really just let this go? Absolutely not! But... As these thoughts consumed him, Zilu suddenly closed his eyes.


    "Holy King, why hasn''t he left yet?" Zhao Suoxiang asked with some concern.


    "This isn''t good!" Zhong Shan said with a grave expression.


    In the distance, Zilu took a deep breath and slowly opened his eyes, a bitter smile forming on his lips.


    "My master often said that my path in Confucianism was too rigid,cking adaptability. It seems he was right. The Dao that can be spoken of is not the eternal Dao! What does it mean to be a gentleman? If I can''t even follow my heart''s desires, how can I im to be one?" Zilu seemed to have an epiphany.


    Focusing his thoughts, Zilu looked at Zhong Shan again, and his eyes suddenly sharpened with resolve.


    "Enough talk. Today, I am here to avenge Yan Hui. Zhong Shan, if you are willing toe with me to the Kong family and await my master''s judgment, I will spare your life!" Zilu dered coldly.


    Zhong Shan let out a coldugh, "You''ve finally realized it, haven''t you? So shameless, you can even say such words!"


    Zilu''s eyes widened in anger, and the Xiaojin Beast beside him suddenly let out a roar.


    Opening its metallic mouth, the beast bellowed toward the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "ROOOOAAARRRR!"


    The roar shook the very air, causing the void to tremble. The powerful sonic wave even distorted space itself��such was the might of the Xiaojin Beast!


    As soon as Zhong Shan saw the Xiaojin Beast open its mouth, he knew things were about to get bad. With a thought, the myriad divine avatars in the sky suddenly coalesced into two neen-wed Golden Dragons of Fate.


    The dragon with the cinnabar mark on its brow also opened its mouth and let out a deafening roar.


    "ROOOAAARRRR!"


    This was the Golden Dragon of Fate unleashing its full power in a mighty roar, sending a sonic wave to meet the Xiaojin Beast''s attack.


    "BOOM!"


    The two sonic waves collided in mid-air, and the impact created a mirror-like surface at the point of collision, holding back the spatial ripples.


    "ROAAARRR!"


    With another thunderous roar, the other Golden Dragon of Fate plunged into Zhong Shan''s body.


    "Citizens of Da Yin, heed mymand! I need your strength��raise your right hands!" Zhong Shan shouted.


    Raise their right hands?


    In an instant, Zhong Shan''s voice reached nearly every corner of Da Yin. The citizens, hearing themand, all raised their right hands, and an immense surge of power flowed toward Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s body suddenly expanded a hundredfold as he soared into the sky, rising above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Seeing Zilu''s determined attitude, Zhong Shan knew that a battle was inevitable today. He had no intention of risking harm to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    "Citizens of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, listen well! A powerful foe approaches��everyone, take shelter in the ''Protective Citizen Formation''!" Zhong Shanmanded as he flew out of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    The Protective Citizen Formation! After numerous powerful foes had tried to invade the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan had taken the threat seriously. He had instructed Nan Gongsheng, the y Bodhisattva, Wang Ku, Master Shi, Luo Xingchen, and others tobine their knowledge and create a series of small but extremely sturdy formations throughout the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. These formations were not particrly powerful but were incredibly resilient. Zhong Shan had named them the ''Protective Citizen Formation.''


    As soon as the Protective Citizen Formation was activated, the citizens of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court felt immense gratitude. Which other imperial dynasty in the world ced the safety of its citizens above all else?


    This only deepened the people''s trust in Da Yin. The factions based in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, which were mostly headquarters or branches of major families, also became more loyal to Da Yin.


    Upon Zhong Shan''smand, all the citizens quickly took shelter.


    The Xiaojin Beast''s power was overwhelming. Despite the might of Da Yin''s umted fortune manifesting as the Golden Dragon of Fate, its roar couldn''tpletely counter the Xiaojin Beast''s sonic attack. Although it managed to nullify much of the force, the lingering effects still caused fierce winds to sweep across the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    With the power of Da Yin''s entire nation behind him, Zhong Shan flew into the distant sky with Zilu, ready for a high-stakes battle between two mighty forces.


    Below, Zhong Shan entrusted the remaining Golden Dragon of Fate and the other powerful figures of Da Yin to deal with the Xiaojin Beast.


    Luo Xingchen looked at the Xuanyuan Bow in his hands with a sense of helplessness. If only he had a few more days to fully refine it. Once fully refined, the Xuanyuan Bow would certainly be a formidable weapon against the Xiaojin Beast.


    "ROOOAAARRRR!"


    The Xiaojin Beast let out another thunderous roar, even more powerful than before. The previous shockwave had only caused spatial tremors, but this time, the attack surged forward like a tidal wave. The Xiaojin Beast exerted itself fully, even drawing upon a trace of Heavenly Dao power.


    This sonic wave was akin to an attack from a newly ascended Ancestral Immortal.


    The Golden Dragon of Fate with the cinnabar mark on its brow narrowed its eyes, revealing a hint of ferocity.


    "ROOOAAARRRR!"


    With a roar even more powerful than before, the Golden Dragon of Fate sent another shockwave to meet the Xiaojin Beast''s attack.


    However, the Xiaojin Beast''s sonic wave was ultimately stronger. With a massive collision, the dragon''s wave was dispersed, and the remaining shockwave surged toward the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    The grand formation of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, set up by Nangong Sheng, trembled violently before shattering. Although the shockwave had been significantly weakened after passing through two barriers, it still held tremendous power. Several peaks within the Lingxiao Heavenly Court crumbled, and numerous buildings were reduced to rubble!


    The officials could do nothing for the moment.


    "Luo Xingchen, can you circle behind the Xiaojin Beast and strike it or at least disrupt it?" Yi Yan asked anxiously.


    "It won''t work!" Master Shi shook his head.


    "Why not?"


    "The Xiaojin Beast''s body is imprable; even an Ancient Immortal couldn''t pierce its skin," Luo Xingchen exined.


    "Then we can''t keep this up. The Golden Dragon of Fate is powerful, but it seems it''s no match for the Xiaojin Beast in terms of sonic attacks. If this continues, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court will be destroyed by the Xiaojin Beast!" Yi Yan said worriedly.


    Indeed, with each roar exchanged between the Golden Dragon of Fate and the Xiaojin Beast, the damage to the Lingxiao Heavenly Court grew more severe. Only the area around the imperial pce remained intact, thanks to the powerful protective formation.


    Master Shi observed the situation before saying, "I''ll go. Hopefully, this coffin nail will prove effective!"


    "I''ll go with you!" Luo Xingchen immediately offered.


    "No need. You focus on ensuring everyone else''s safety," Master Shi replied.


    "Understood!" Luo Xingchen nodded.


    It was clear to everyone that while the Lingxiao Heavenly Court was important, the safety of Da Yin''s officials was even more so.


    Master Shi quietly flew off, taking a roundabout route.


    The destruction wrought by the Xiaojin Beast continued to escte.


    "This isn''t good... wait, what''s that?" Tiao, who had been observing the situation, suddenly noticed something unexpected.


    Yi Yan and the others followed Tiao''s gaze.


    Their eyes were drawn to Tianxia Peak!


    The powerful sonic wave had just shattered the protective formation around Tianxia Peak��the ce where the old monsters of the Tian family were in seclusion. Yet, instead of crumbling, the peak miraculously reflected the force back, almost as if it had absorbed and then repelled the energy.


    The Xiaojin Beast, unaware of this anomaly, grew increasingly impatient as it realized that despite its relentless roars, the Lingxiao Heavenly Court remainedrgely intact. A sh of irritation crossed its eyes.


    With another fierce roar, the Xiaojin Beast lunged toward the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Although the beast was rtively smallpared to the Golden Dragon of Fate, its power was far more formidable.


    "ROOOAAARRRR!"


    This time, the Xiaojin Beast targeted the Golden Dragon of Fate directly, unleashing a colossal shockwave. The force was even greater than before, causing violent tremors in the space around it.


    The Golden Dragon of Fate began to waver under the tremendous pressure.


    "ROOOAAARRRR! ROOOAAARRRR! ROOOAAARRRR!"


    After several sessive roars, the Golden Dragon of Fate finally dispersed under the overwhelming impact.


    "This is bad!" the ministers cried out in rm.


    But just as the Golden Dragon of Fate began to dissipate, the cinnabar mark on its brow glowed eerily, and the dragon reformed, albeit much weaker than before.


    "Pin it down!" Master Shi''s voice rang out from above.


    "BOOM!"


    "ROOOAAARRRR!"


    The Xiaojin Beast let out a howl of pain, twisting its head to find the source of its agony. A sh of ferocity flickered in its eyes as it spotted Master Shi.


    Knowing better than to face the beast head-on, Master Shi quickly retreated, vanishing behind a nearby mountain.


    The coffin nail had done its job��despite the Xiaojin Beast''s near-invulnerability, a small hole now marred its previously imprable skin.


    Enraged, the Xiaojin Beast momentarily forgot about the Golden Dragon of Fate and focused all its fury on the mountain where Master Shi had disappeared. It let out another deafening roar.


    "ROOOAAARRRR!"


    In the beast''s mind, no mountain could withstand its roar. Yet, after its attack, not only did the mountain remain intact, but the sonic waves bizarrely reflected back, shaking the Xiaojin Beast to its core.


    "RUMBLE!"


    The powerful vibrations caused the Xiaojin Beast to tremble.


    Now locked in a one-sided battle with the mountain, the Xiaojin Beast continued to unleash wave after wave of sonic attacks, seemingly determined to destroy it.


    The officials of Da Yin watched in astonishment.


    Tiao, in particr, looked on with growing concern. The elders of the Tian family were in seclusion on that peak, and now it seemed the Xiaojin Beast was intent on disturbing them.


    There was nothing anyone could do but watch as the Xiaojin Beast continued its relentless assault on Tianxia Peak.


    After a while, the relentless attacks finally took their toll on the peak.


    "RUMBLE! RUMBLE! RUMBLE!"


    A loud crack echoed from Tianxia Peak, and halfway up the mountain, a massive fissure opened. Slowly, a pce began to emerge from within, emitting a blinding golden light that shone like the sun, dazzling everyone who looked upon it.


    All eyes widened in shock, especially Tiao''s, whose face was filled with panic.


    Had the old ancestors been awakened?


    The Xiaojin Beast halted its movements, surprised by the dazzling golden light emanating from the newly revealed pce.


    As the blinding golden light receded, the atmosphere grew tense.


    <strong>"Tap... tap... tap..."</strong>


    The sound of footsteps echoed from within the pce, each step carrying an urgency and a palpable sense of anger.


    <strong>"BANG!"</strong>


    The grand doors of the pce were thrown open with a thunderous crash.


    Out stepped a man, draped in what was once a ck robe, now nearly in tatters, holding a long, purple staff. His gait was eerie, each step resonating with the onlookers'' hearts, filling them with a sense of dread.


    The man was emaciated, his body appearing to be nothing more than skin stretched taut over bone. His skin was pitch ck, as if he had just emerged from a pile of charcoal, so dark it was terrifying. His eyes glowed a menacing red, and on his forehead, a golden gem was embedded, resembling a brilliant sun, casting an intimidating aura.


    This was Tian Shenzi��thest patriarch of the Tian family in the Small Thousand World. He had been awakened once again!


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 984: The Dominance of Tian Shenzi

    <h4>Chapter 984: The Dominance of Tian Shenzi</h4>


    Tian Shenzi stepped out of the pce on Tianxia Peak, his expression cold and indifferent, clearly displeased at being awakened. As his gaze swept across the surroundings, a wave of dread washed over everyone present.


    Tiao immediately flew over to him. "Ancestor!" Tiao greeted him with deep respect.


    Tian Shenzi ignored Tiao and instead looked up at the Xiaojin Beast in the sky. He quickly identified the creature as the one responsible for disturbing his seclusion.


    The Xiaojin Beast, sensing the danger emanating from Tian Shenzi, watched him warily, a primal sense of fear slowly rising within its heart.


    "We''ve arrived in the Grand Thousand World?" Tian Shenzi asked calmly.


    "Yes, this is the Grand Thousand World. The Holy King has already created it, but now an Ancestral Immortal hase to cause trouble. He''s currently fighting with the Holy King in the heavens, and this Xiaojin Beast is under themand of that Ancestral Immortal!" Tiao quickly exined.


    "Mm," Tian Shenzi responded with a light nod.


    "ROOOAAARRRR!" The Xiaojin Beast roared arrogantly. Despite feeling threatened, its pride wouldn''t allow it to back down. It attempted to provoke Tian Shenzi, seeking to gauge his strength.


    "Ancestor, the Xiaojin Beast is too powerful. We''re powerless against it; we can''t stop it!" Tiao said urgently.


    "Powerless? It seems you haven''t been diligent in your studies. The Feng Shui technique I taught youst time should have been enough to deal with it, yet you say you''re powerless?" Tian Shenzi''s eyes shed with a hint of anger.


    "Yes, I haven''t fully mastered it yet, but this Xiaojin Beast is...," Tiao stammered, not daring to argue.


    "A Xiaojin Beast? In the prime of the Tian family, it would have been nothing more than a gatekeeper," Tian Shenzi remarked dismissively.


    A gatekeeper? Tiao was stunned. Just how powerful had the Tian family been in the past?


    Overhearing Tian Shenzi''s words, the Xiaojin Beast''s eyes shed with rage. Was it only fit to guard a gate? The fear it had felt was instantly reced by burning anger.


    "ROOOAAARRRR!" The Xiaojin Beastunched another sonic attack, this time directing it straight at Tian Shenzi and Tiao, as if intending to obliterate them both.


    Tiao showed a flicker of fear, but Tian Shenzi remained utterly unperturbed. He stared at the iing shockwave, and as he watched, the powerful spatial ripples mysteriously calmed and dissipated.


    That was a full-force attack powered by the Xiaojin Beast''s connection to the Heavenly Dao, yet it had vanished so strangely?


    Unwilling to believe it, the Xiaojin Beast roared again, unleashing another potent attack, but just as before, the attack dissipated in front of Tian Shenzi as if it had never existed.


    This time, the Xiaojin Beast seemed to remember the fear it had felt earlier. It hesitated, recognizing the true danger it was in.


    Tian Shenzi cast a cold gaze at the beast, and then, without warning, he made his move.


    His eyes glowed with a brilliant red light, and the Xiaojin Beast let out a howl of pain.


    "ROOOAAARRRR!"


    The beast''s cry was filled with agony as its tail, and then its body, began to turn to stone. The transformation spread rapidly toward its head, turning the once invulnerable creature into a lifeless, grayish-brown statue.


    Petrification? Tian Shenzi had used some form of ocr magic to turn the Xiaojin Beast to stone!


    In the za before the Longevity Hall, the officials watched in shock and awe. It was clear that Tian Shenzi had intervened, but the sheer power of his ability left them speechless. Was he truly this strong?


    "BOOM!"


    The Xiaojin Beast plummeted from the sky, its stony body fracturing upon impact. Fear filled its eyes��how could it fight when its supposedly indestructible body had been turned to stone?


    Tian Shenzi slowly extended his right hand, and with a simple gesture, he drew a blue energy from the Xiaojin Beast''s body, absorbing it into his palm.


    The moment the blue energy was drawn out from the Xiaojin Beast, it turnedpletely to stone��no, it disintegrated into fine dust. A gentle breeze scattered the remains, leaving nothing behind.


    "Kneel and meditate," Tian Shenzimanded.


    "Yes!" Tiao obeyed without hesitation.


    Tian Shenzi reached out and directed the blue energy into Tiao''s head, apanied by a subtle spell. Instantly, Tiao entered a state of deep meditation.


    An hourter, Tiao slowly opened his eyes, extending his hands and gazing at them in astonishment. What had just happened?


    "The Feng Shui techniques I taught you are not fullyprehensible without the necessary cultivation. Just now, I elevated your cultivation directly to that of an Ancient Immortal. How do you feel?" Tian Shenzi inquired.


    In the distance, the officials of Da Yin were left speechless, their minds reeling.


    Tiao, who had been at the peak of the Heavenly Immortal realm, had suddenly ascended to the level of an Ancient Immortal? Could this be real? Was this raggedly dressed man truly that powerful? When had such a figure appeared in Da Yin?


    The scene shocked everyone. The concept of an Ancient Immortal was beyond reach for most��something they could never hope to achieve in their lifetimes. Yet Tiao had ascended to this level simply by recognizing an ancestor? Some among the onlookers even entertained the idea of acknowledging Tian Shenzi as their own ancestor.


    "Thank you, Ancestor!" Tiao said with great excitement.


    "This is merely an elevation of your cultivation. Achieving the corresponding realm will depend on your own efforts. If you fail to reach the Ancient Immortal realm within a century, your cultivation will revert to that of a Great Immortal," Tian Shenzi warned.


    Revert to the Great Immortal realm? Even that would be worth it��after all, advancing by an entire realm was no small feat. Reaching the Great Immortal level was already an incredibly difficult achievement.


    "Yes!" Tiao replied immediately.


    At that moment, none of them noticed the subtle change in Da Yin''s other Golden Dragon of Fate��the one with the cinnabar mark on its forehead. The cinnabar slightly shifted as the dragon''s eyes focused intently on Tian Shenzi, as if scrutinizing him.


    Even Tian Shenzi seemed unaware of the dragon''s abnormality.


    After a brief moment, the cinnabar-marked Golden Dragon of Fate returned to its usual appearance, standing atop the sea of fortune clouds, roaring defiantly at the heavens, where the battle raged on.


    Tian Shenzi looked skyward.


    A golden streak of light shed across the sky.


    "Boom!" Zhong Shan crashed down.


    His clothes were slightly tattered, evidence that his battle with Zilu hadn''t gone well. The Baji Heavenly Tail rested on his shoulder, indicating that it had joined the fight as well. Despite this, they had been unable to defeat Zilu.


    Ancestral Immortals were, after all, extraordinarily powerful.


    A sh of white Heavenly Dao light appeared in the sky as Zilu reappeared above the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    But where was the Xiaojin Beast?


    Zilu quickly scanned the area��it was truly gone. He could sense it: the Xiaojin Beast was dead! But who in Da Yin could have killed the Xiaojin Beast?


    How could this be? The Xiaojin Beast, ranked twentieth among the divine beasts, dead? It seemed impossible.


    In an instant, Zilu spotted Tian Shenzi.


    Tian Shenzi?


    The mere sight of Tian Shenzi filled Zilu with an overwhelming sense of dread. Even standing within the Heavenly Dao, Zilu felt an intense, oppressive force emanating from this man.


    Who was he? How could he be so powerful? Was he one of Da Yin''s people?


    "My name is Zilu. May I ask for your esteemed name?" Zilu asked in a deep, respectful tone.


    The world had many Ancestral Immortals, but Zilu was familiar with most of them, either having met them or heard of them. Likewise, Zilu was well-known across thend��both for his status as an Ancestral Immortal and as a disciple of Confucius.


    Who in the world didn''t recognize Zilu?


    "Never heard of you," Tian Shenzi replied indifferently.


    Zilu''s confidence wavered��never heard of him? How was that possible? Was Tian Shenzi trying to provoke him? But no, the tone was too straightforward, too genuine. He really didn''t know who Zilu was.


    What kind of monster was this? Could he havee from the underworld? Even if he were from the underworld, how could he not know Zilu? The man''s emaciated frame and the strange golden gem on his forehead were unsettling.


    Zilu was sure that if it were simply a matter of qi, he would have recognized it immediately. But the golden gem on Tian Shenzi''s forehead had merged with his body, changing in appearance, making it difficult to identify. Unlike Ying, who had identified it at first nce, Zilu failed to recognize its nature.


    "You''ve never heard of me? No matter. My master is the great Sage Confucius!" Zilu dered proudly.


    "Confucius?" Tian Shenzi seemed to be searching his memory.


    Zilu nodded, expecting recognition.


    "Nope, never heard of him either," Tian Shenzi said, shaking his head.


    Zilu: "..."


    The officials of Da Yin: "..."


    Only Zhong Shan, Tiao, and a few others knew that Tian Shenzi wasn''t intentionally trying to insult Zilu��he truly had never heard of Confucius.


    "You''ve never heard of my master?" Zilu was visibly displeased.


    "Is that important?" Tian Shenzi replied nonchntly.


    Zilu: "..."


    "You''ve disturbed my meditation," Tian Shenzi said coldly.


    Zilu scrutinized Tian Shenzi, unsure of his origins or strength.


    "If you''ve never heard of him, then I suppose I must enlighten you," Zilu said, his voice tinged with coldness.


    With those words, Zilu produced a scroll��the <i>Spring and Autumn Annals</i>.


    Once again, the <i>Spring and Autumn Annals</i> made an appearance, but this one was clearly more powerful than those belonging to Kong Lietian and Yan Hui.


    As Zilu unfurled the scroll, massive ck characters materialized in the sky, emanating profound principles of the Heavenly Dao.


    "This is the Dao of our Confucian sect, contained within this <i>Spring and Autumn Annals</i>. Since you''re unfamiliar, you should read it," Zilu said sternly.


    As he spoke, Zilu slowly opened the <i>Spring and Autumn Annals</i>. Instantly, the ck characters in the air expanded to a hundred times their size, and an overwhelming aura radiated in all directions.


    "The <i>Spring and Autumn Annals</i>?" Tian Shenzi''s expression turned serious.


    He raised his long purple staff and tossed it into the air.


    In the sky, the purple staff expanded, shooting upwards and shattering the ck characters formed by the <i>Spring and Autumn Annals</i>.


    The purple staff was none other than the Buzhou Mountain Staff!


    Zilu''s expression shifted as he threw the <i>Spring and Autumn Annals</i> into the air, where it also expanded. As the two artifacts grew, they charged at each other, gathering momentum until they collided with tremendous force.


    "BOOOOM!"


    The impact created a massive ck hole, sucking in everything around it. Though the ck hole wasn''trge, it quickly closed, returning the Buzhou Mountain Staff to Tian Shenzi''s hand and the <i>Spring and Autumn Annals</i> to Zilu''s.


    While the Buzhou Mountain Staff remained undamaged, the <i>Spring and Autumn Annals</i> showed a crack in one of its bamboo slips.


    Zilu''s face darkened as he looked at Tian Shenzi, realizing that Tian Shenzi had been calm throughout the exchange. He hadn''t wanted to fight, but if they had, Tian Shenzi would likely have had the upper hand.


    "May I ask for your name?" Zilu asked, more seriously this time.


    "You shouldn''t havee here. Leave," Tian Shenzi replied without offering his name.


    Tian Shenzi''s demeanor was so calm that it made Zilu feel a sense of inferiority.


    After a cold nce at Tian Shenzi and then at Zhong Shan, Zilu realized that avenging hisrades was impossible today. Frustrated, he turned and vanished, intending to consult his master.


    Zhong Shan, however, understood Tian Shenzi''s reasoning. Tian Shenzi wasn''t afraid of battle��he was mindful of the seventeen other living dead within Tianxia Peak, and perhaps even more so of the mysterious door they had seen before. Who knew what��or who��might be behind that door?


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 985: The Inverse Technique

    <h4>Chapter 985: The Inverse Technique</h4>


    With Zilu gone, the immediate crisis facing the Lingxiao Heavenly Court was over. However, the aftermath was devastating��countless buildings in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court had been nearly destroyed. While the damage seemed manageable, repairable by the army within a short time, the true issuey deeper.


    This wasn''t just any ce; this was the capital of Da Yin.


    The fact that the capital of Da Yin had been nearly leveled would severely undermine the confidence of the people.


    "Yi Yan, you will oversee the efforts to reassure the citizens and reconstruct the Lingxiao Heavenly Court. Utilize all avable resources��move mountains, forge seas��rebuild it stronger than ever," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes," Yi Yan responded immediately, ready to carry out the task.


    Meanwhile, in a corner of the za before the Longevity Hall, Nezha''s subordinates were still frozen in shock. Holding Nezha''s unconscious body, they stared in horror at the events that had just transpired.


    Da Yin was this powerful?


    Just days ago, they had been brimming with confidence, but now they felt only shame. Indeed, they hade here to die��how fortunate that the Holy King of Da Yin had shown mercy.


    Zhong Shan adjusted his robes and turned to Tian Shenzi.


    "Senior, I apologize for the disturbance," Zhong Shan said respectfully.


    Tian Shenzi looked at Zhong Shan with a hint of surprise.


    "We haven''t seen each other for centuries, and now you''re able to contend with Ancestral Immortals. That''s quite impressive, very impressive indeed," Tian Shenzi remarked.


    "I''m still far from your level, Senior��driving away an Ancestral Immortal with a single blow," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Come inside, let''s talk," Tian Shenzi said.


    Zhong Shan nodded and followed Tian Shenzi into the golden pce, though they didn''t venture deeper into the pce. Zhong Shan knew that without Tian Ling''er''s presence, there was no going further into that mysterious ce.


    "Where is Tian Lingzi?" Tian Shenzi asked.


    Tian Lingzi, of course, was Tian Ling''er. After being crowned as the head of the Tian family, she had taken on the title "Tian Lingzi."


    Having now experienced the Grand Thousand World, Zhong Shan understood the significance of the title "Zi"��a title reserved only for true Ancestral Immortals. However, some figures who were great in name only might still bear the title, but the Tian family was confident that any head of the family would inevitably be an Ancestral Immortal.


    "At the time of the creation of the world, Da Yin was not strong enough to withstand the gods and demons. Ling''er has returned to her ancestral home for a time, and I n to bring her back once I''ve advanced my cultivation to the next level," Zhong Shan exined.


    "Not strong enough to resist? That''s understandable��the Grand Thousand World is vastly different from the Small Thousand World. Still, you''vee a long way in just a few hundred years," Tian Shenzi acknowledged.


    "Indeed, it hasn''t been easy, but as you saw today, without your intervention, I would have struggled greatly against Zilu. Even if I managed to drive him away, I would have been gravely wounded. It seems that in the Grand Thousand World, Da Yin''s expansion hasn''t kept pace with the rise of my enemies," Zhong Shan said with a wry smile.


    "Having powerful enemies is also a sign of strength. Some people can''t even attract enemies, but to have foes as formidable as yours only drives you to grow stronger," Tian Shenzi remarked, showing no disdain for Zhong Shan''s words.


    Zhong Shan nodded in agreement, understanding the truth of this. He had merely voiced his thoughts aloud.


    "This time, has your emergence from seclusion affected you?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "There will be some impact, but it''s not significant. It will pass after some time. However, I''ve noticed that Da Yin is still somewhatcking in strength," Tian Shenzi observed thoughtfully.


    Zhong Shan frowned slightly but did not refute him.


    "Still, the fact that you''ve achieved this much in such a short time ismendable," Tian Shenzi said, offering somefort.


    Zhong Shan smiled but didn''t respond, sensing that Tian Shenzi had more to say.


    "Having Tian Lingzi stay with others isn''t ideal. You should bring her back as soon as possible," Tian Shenzi advised.


    "Yes, I''m well aware of that," Zhong Shan replied affirmatively.


    Tian Shenzi seemed to pick up on Zhong Shan''s hesitation��clearly, Zhong Shan felt that his current strength wasn''t sufficient and wanted to wait until he was more powerful.


    "I''ve noticed you possess a technique rted to the Fate Maniptor," Tian Shenzi observed.


    "Tian''s technique, left behind by a Sage in the Small Thousand World. Would you like to take a look?" Zhong Shan offered.


    "Let me see it," Tian Shenzi nodded.


    Zhong Shan took out a jade slip containing the technique. Tian Shenzi examined it carefully.


    "Indeed, it''s a Sage''s technique, but it has a w," Tian Shenzi remarked.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan responded with surprise.


    "This technique can protect you from others'' calctions, but it won''t shield you from being calcted by the Sage who created it," Tian Shenzi exined.


    "I''m aware of that," Zhong Shan nodded, acknowledging the limitation.


    Tian Shenzi looked deeply at Zhong Shan and said, "I can make a small modification so that it can shield you from the Sage as well."


    "Senior, can that really be done?" Zhong Shan asked, his tone serious.


    If Tian Shenzi could truly alter the technique, it would be invaluable. Zhong Shan knew that he would eventually encounter the Sage known as Mi Tian again. But just how powerful was Tian Shenzi, to even understand the intricacies of a Fate Maniptor''s techniques?


    Tian Shenzi made a subtle gesture, and his power lightly flowed into the jade slip before he handed it back to Zhong Shan.


    "I''ve made the adjustments to Tian''s technique. Additionally, I''ve left you with another technique," Tian Shenzi said.


    Zhong Shan''s spiritual sense probed the jade slip, confirming the modifications. The changes were minor, but they would allow Zhong Shan to block even the calctions of the Sage Mi Tian. And there was another technique?


    "''Inverse Technique?''" Zhong Shan read the name, surprised.


    "The path of the Fate Maniptor has its own rules, and I cannot teach you the ways of calction. However, I can impart some peripheral techniques. This <i>Inverse Technique</i> won''t help you calcte others, but if someone tries to calcte you, it will allow you to see their appearance, albeit for just an instant," Tian Shenzi exined with gravity.


    Understanding the value of the <i>Inverse Technique</i>, Zhong Shan realized it would provide him with a significant advantage. This was an incredibly powerful technique, a substantial gift.


    Zhong Shan, who had been in dire need of something like this, did not refuse. However, he knew that Tian Shenzi likely had an ulterior motive.


    "May I ask what Senior wants in return?" Zhong Shan asked directly.


    "Nothing in particr. You''ve taken care of Tian Lingzi for so long��consider this as the Tian family''s way of repaying that debt," Tian Shenzi replied.


    Shaking his head, Zhong Shan said, "Ling''er is my wife. I owe no thanks for doing what I should. I''ll hold onto the favor from the <i>Inverse Technique</i> for now, and I''ll repay it in the future."


    Zhong Shan understood that there were no free lunches in this world, and he would eventually need to repay this favor. He wasn''t na?ve enough to think otherwise.


    As Zhong Shan pondered this, another technique came to mind��the <i>Central Art</i>.


    This was a technique given to him by the Central Leader during a projection in the Small Thousand World. The leader had instructed Zhong Shan to refine it for Bao''er, but Zhong Shan had held onto it, wary that it might be a trap. If Bao''er were to be fully controlled by the Central Leader because of this technique, it would be disastrous. Zhong Shan had been hoping to find a w in the technique, something that could give him an edge when he eventually shed with the Central Leader.


    Should he ask Tian Shenzi to take a look?


    No, Zhong Shan shook his head internally. He couldn''t let his guard down. It was this principle of caution that had kept him alive all these years. While Tian Shenzi had given him a valuable gift, it wasn''t enough to earn hisplete trust. Tian Shenzi was strong, but Zhong Shan knew he needed to be even more vignt.


    "What''s wrong?" Tian Shenzi noticed Zhong Shan''s brief hesitation.


    "Nothing," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "I''m counting on you to bring Ling''er back. Here, I''ll give you another treasure," Tian Shenzi said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was slightly surprised.


    Tian Shenzi extended his hand and retrieved arge, one-zhang-wide disk covered with intricate symbols.


    "What is this?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    Tian Shenzi then produced two purple jade talismans.


    "ce this disk in any location in the mortal realm. Once you leave, as long as you''re still in the mortal realm, no matter where you are��even if you''re in the Small Thousand World''s mortal realm��you can crush one of these purple jade talismans to instantly transport yourself back to the disk''s location," Tian Shenzi exined.


    "Fixed-point teleportation?" Zhong Shan was astonished.


    This was a divine artifact! To be able to return to a specific location no matter where you are by simply crushing a talisman��this was an incredible power.


    "Yes. This was created by the first head of the Tian family, using the ''Space Divine Ability.'' Only these two purple jade talismans remain. Use them wisely and make sure to bring Tian Lingzi back," Tian Shenzi said seriously.


    Zhong Shan looked at Tian Shenzi with a mix of surprise and understanding, sensing that there was more to this gesture. But he simply nodded and said, "You can count on me."


    "Good," Tian Shenzi nodded in return.


    Having received two powerful treasures, Zhong Shan was certainly pleased, but he wasn''t about to blindly follow Tian Shenzi''s orders. Bringing Tian Ling''er back was something he would do only when he was sure he could protect her adequately. He decided to wait until he reached the Ancient Immortal realm before attempting to bring her back.


    Zhong Shan exited the golden pce, which then slowly receded back into Tianxia Peak.


    As Tian Shenzi returned to his seclusion, the ministers of Da Yin were left with a deeper understanding of the hidden power within their kingdom. It became clear that Tianxia Peak, and perhaps other restricted areas within the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, held far more than they had realized.


    Those who had witnessed Da Yin''s rise and the creation of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court swallowed hard, marveling at the sheer power their Holy King had managed to gather. When had Zhong Shan amassed such formidable strength? How much more was there that they didn''t know about?


    Their admiration and reverence for Zhong Shan deepened even further.


    Elsewhere, in a city within Da Yin...


    Sekong had been waiting in the city, staying informed by eavesdropping on conversations in a local inn.


    "You wouldn''t believe it! On that day at the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, the Holy King was so powerful! With just one punch, he pierced right through the Xiaojin Beast��I saw it with my own eyes!"


    "Nonsense! The Holy King didn''t just punch it to death; he stomped it t! I saw it too. Everyone lent their strength to the Holy King, and he grew to a colossal size. He crushed the Xiaojin Beast with one stomp!"


    "And what about that Zilu guy? They say he was a disciple of some Sage, right? So what happened to him?"


    "What happened?"


    "I heard the Holy King beat him so badly that he fled, broken and bloody, barely escaping with his life!"


    "No way! I heard he barely escaped with a wisp of his soul!"


    "Bull! That was just a show the Holy King put on for the Sage. I heard our army ambushed him on the way back, and my cousin was part of that ambush!"


    ...


    The inn was filled with people bragging and exaggerating the events they had heard.


    Sekong, listening to all of this, broke into a cold sweat.


    "Thank goodness I was smart enough to leave! If I hadn''t, I''d be in big trouble. That Zhong Shan is just too terrifying," Sekong muttered to himself, feeling fortunate to have escaped.


    Without wasting another moment, Sekong left the city. He didn''t want to stay in Fengzhong Territory any longer and was eager to return to the Kong family as quickly as possible.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 986: Unifying the Fengzong Territory

    <h4>Chapter 986: Unifying the Fengzong Territory</h4>


    In the mortal realm, the Great Xian Empire continued its relentless expansion. Although the citizens of the imperial capital harbored lingering fears, the unification of the Fengzong Territory would dispel all shadows and solidify their loyalty to the empire.


    Fortunately, there was no force within the Fengzong Territory capable of resisting the might of the Great Xian.


    The Holy Court had crumbled entirely, the Serpent Queen''s domain had copsed, the Radiant Lantern Sect had vanished, and even the Zixiao Daochang had disappeared without a trace.


    Where had the Zixiao Daochang gone? Zhong Shan pondered this question repeatedly. If it were only the Zixiao Daochang, it might not have mattered, but what concerned Zhong Shan was the whereabouts of Zixun. She had vanished, and Zhong Shan was deeply worried.


    "You don''t understand! You don''t know! The Zixiao Daochang has something I need!"


    Zixun''s words echoed in his ears. Reflecting on her status within the Zixiao Daochang, as the Holy Maiden, her position was just a step below the sect leader. The entire Zixiao Daochang exuded an air of mystery.


    Although the Zixiao Sect Leader had perished, the Zixiao Daochang seemed unscathed. That day in Qingqiu, two ancient immortals had risked their lives to protect the great immortal Cheng Baiyi. Did ancient immortals have a master? And from their tone, it seemed their master could protect the entire Zixiao Daochang.


    Could this have been Zixun''s objective? Was the Zixiao Daochang merely a stepping stone for her?


    Sitting in his study, Zhong Shan rubbed his temples before suddenly calling out, "Dark Emperor!"


    In an instant, a shadowy figure appeared before him.


    Zhong Shan nced at the Dark Emperor and asked, "You''ve broken through to the Great Immortal Realm?"


    "Yes, just three days ago," the Dark Emperor replied.


    Zhong Shan nodded, "Inform the Shadow Guards to gather information from across the world and search for any trace of the Zixiao Daochang."


    "Yes!" the Dark Emperor responded.


    The Zixiao Daochang seemed to have vanished from the world, with no news of it even decadester.


    On this day, within the court of the Longevity Hall:


    "Congrattions, Holy King! The Great Xian has unified the Fengzong Territory, and the world bows in submission!" Yi Yan congratted.


    "Congrattions, Holy King! With the unification of the Fengzong Territory, the Great Xian shall enjoy eternal prosperity, its longevity equal to that of heaven!" the ministers cheered in unison.


    "May the Holy King enjoy eternal prosperity, his longevity equal to that of heaven!"


    "May the Great Xian enjoy eternal prosperity, its longevity equal to that of heaven!"


    The entire Heavenly Court of Lingxiao resounded with jubtion, and the entire territory of the Great Xian echoed with cheers.


    A grand celebration swept thend, and the world rejoiced!


    Looking back over two centuries, to the moment when the Great Xian had first emerged, the world had been steeped in mourning. It was deemed the weakest Holy Court in history. Who could have imagined that in just over two hundred years, the Great Xian would sweep across the Eight Wastes, unifying the Fengzong Territory?


    Though the Fengzong Territorycked the highest-level powers, its mid-level forces were formidable, far beyond what the Great Xian could have confronted. Yet, in this short time, the Great Xian had not only confronted them but had unified the entire Fengzong Territory.


    It was nothing short of a miracle. Even the citizens of the conquered cities couldn''t help but admire the Holy King''s extraordinary talent and vision.


    With the world newly unified, not everyone was yet aligned with the Great Xian. The next step was to integrate the hearts of the people, ensuring their loyalty, and solidifying control over the Fengzong Territory.


    As usual, the court continued its proceedings, and the Great Xian grew stronger and more cohesive by the day.


    On this day, in Zhong Shan''s study, the Great Xian weed a new guest.


    Wang Jian from Great Qin!


    "Congrattions, Holy King Zhong, on unifying the Fengzong Territory. Before I came, our Holy King remarked that Zhong Shan would surely have unified the Fengzong Territory by now, and indeed, it is so!" Wang Jian smiled.


    "During the founding of the world, I must thank General Wang for helping the Great Xian sweep away all the small and petty threats!" Zhong Shan nodded in acknowledgment.


    During the founding of the world, Wang Jian hade under themand of Ying to protect the Great Xian, and Zhong Shan was naturally deeply grateful.


    "Holy King Zhong overpraises me. I was merely following the orders of my Holy King," Wang Jian replied, shaking his head modestly.


    "What brings General Wang here this time?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Wang Jian''s expression grew serious as he reached into his sleeve and produced a ck and gold invitation.


    "It is the Holy King''s grand birthday celebration, and he wishes to invite Holy King Zhong to attend the banquet. I am here only to deliver the invitation," Wang Jian respectfully handed over the ck and gold invitation.


    "Oh? Ying''s grand birthday?" Zhong Shan took the invitation.


    "The Holy King''s 90,000th birthday is approaching. He hasn''t invited many from outside the court. I have been tasked with delivering invitations, and my first stop was here, to Holy King Zhong," Wang Jian said with a smile.


    Zhong Shan opened the invitation, nced over it, and after a moment of contemtion, nodded. "Send word to Ying for me. Tell him that I will certainly attend."


    "Rest assured, Holy King Zhong, I will convey your message to the Holy King!"


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "The invitation has been delivered, so I must take my leave. There are still other ces where I need to deliver invitations," Wang Jian said.


    "Let me see you off."


    Zhong Shan escorted Wang Jian out of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Holding the ck and gold invitation, Zhong Shan returned to his study, deep in thought.


    Two dayster, Zhong Shan summoned several of the Great Xian''s key ministers.


    He informed them of the invitation, and the ministers began to ponder the situation.


    "Great Qin is located in Dongzhou?" Mr. Corpse thought for a moment before speaking.


    "Do you know this ce?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Yes, it is said that while the Fengzong Territory lies to the north of the world, Dongzhou is in the eastern part. Even if I were to fly there without rest, it would take at least thirty years. It''s quite far!" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Quite far, indeed. However, there are still several decades before Ying''s grand birthday, so there''s no rush," Zhong Shan said.


    "Allow me to describe the general situation in Dongzhou," Mr. Corpse recalled.


    "Go on," Zhong Shan encouraged.


    "Dongzhou is not the easternmost part of the world, but it''s close. To its west, across the sea, are the Four Great Continents: East Shenzhou, South Zhanbu Continent, West Niuhe Continent, and North Julu Continent. And to the north of the Four Great Continents lies the Lu Territory, which is within the influence of Confucius," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "The Heavenly Court, Great Thunder Sound Temple, Confucius?" Zhong Shan pondered these names.


    Could Great Qin really be located there?


    "In fact, the Four Great Continents form one of the three great centers of the world," Mr. Corpse added.


    "Oh? Three great centers?"


    "The three great centers are connected by what is known as the Yellow Springs Road. There is a Yellow Springs Road in both the Small Thousand Worlds and the Great Thousand Worlds. In the Great Thousand World, there are three such roads, one of which passes through the center of the Four Great Continents. It connects to the underworld," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "I see," Zhong Shan nodded.


    As he considered this, Zhong Shan''s brows furrowed, and he fell into deep thought. Memories from his younger days surfaced��back when he was still on Earth. Weren''t these Four Great Continents the same as those described in the myths and legends he had heard in his youth?


    Everything was gradually ovepping. Could this journey to the Four Great Continents reveal some connection to Earth?


    What exactly was Earth? A Small Thousand World? No, that didn''t seem right. A among the stars? That didn''t fit either. Even the idea that the sr system was part of a starry sky in the Great Thousand World didn''t make sense. Everything was shrouded in mystery.


    This uing journey to Great Qin for Ying''s grand birthday would surely take Zhong Shan through the Four Great Continents. Perhaps, during this trip, he might uncover a clue to these mysteries.


    "Then, I''ll make the arrangements for this journey eastward," Zhong Shan said after a moment of contemtion.


    The gathered officials listened intently.


    "Mr. Corpse, Luo Xingchen, and Nangong Sheng will apany me on this journey. The rest of you will remain in the Great Xian and await my return," Zhong Shan announced in a deep voice.


    "Understood!" Mr. Corpse, Luo Xingchen, and Nangong Sheng responded immediately.


    Luo Xingchen was the strongest among them, an ancient immortal with time-rted divine abilities, and he had also obtained the Xuanyuan Bow. Nangong Sheng was a master of formations, at the Great Immortal Realm. Mr. Corpse, although only at the peak of the Heavenly Immortal Realm, was the most mysterious, with deep knowledge of the Yellow Springs Road and other esoteric matters.


    "Holy King, you''re leaving again? Won''t this...?" Yi Yan expressed concern.


    "Rest assured, I will make all necessary arrangements before I depart. Additionally, I will leave the Imperial Diagram in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, allowing you to traverse between the mortal and underworld realms at will. With the Fengzong Territory now unified, I can leave without worry," Zhong Shan reassured.


    "Understood!" The ministers nodded.


    With the ability to traverse between the mortal and underworld realms, the officials no longer felt anxious. After all, the Holy King would be gone for several decades.


    "We will depart in one month. This journey eastward is not just for celebrating a birthday; it could very well turn into a campaign. Prepare for the worst, and Mr. Corpse, Luo Xingchen, Nangong Sheng, start making your preparations," Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes!" The three responded in unison.


    Over the course of the next month, Zhong Shan carefully attended to the affairs of the Great Xian, ensuring everything was in order for his absence.


    With the Imperial Diagram enabling him to traverse realms, Zhong Shan felt confident in leaving, knowing that he would remain informed of the situation in the Great Xian at all times.


    Before his departure, Zhong Shan once again entered the Hundred Worlds Cave Heaven.


    At the deepest part of the Hundred Worlds Cave Heaven, a ce few could reach, Zhong Shan found Huan Ji seated on a ck throne, surrounded by countless shadows swirling like demonic entities. Over the decades, Huan Ji seemed to have grown significantly, having refined much of the ck throne.


    "Zhong Shan, you''re here?" Huan Ji opened her eyes, surprised to see him.


    "Yes. How is your refining progressing?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I''m confident that in another hundred years, I''ll have made significant progress. By then, I might even be able to connect to the Demon Realm!" Huan Ji said, a trace of excitement in her voice.


    "The Demon Realm?"


    "Yes. I''m not sure where the Demon Realm is, but through this Throne of Demons, I can sense a pathway. It feels as though the end of the path is teeming with demons��I''m certain it leads to the Demon Realm!" Huan Ji exined, her excitement palpable.


    "Congrattions on acquiring such a treasure!" Zhong Shan remarked, impressed.


    "It''s thanks to my own abilities. No one else could have refined this treasure!" Huan Ji added, clearly proud of herself.


    Zhong Shan smiled wryly. "Alright."


    "By the way, didn''t you mention that you were going to Dongzhou a few days ago? When are you leaving?" Huan Ji asked, curious.


    "The day after tomorrow. I wanted to see you before I left, and I have a favor to ask," Zhong Shan said.


    "A favor?"


    Zhong Shan reached into his sleeve and took out a round disk, the fixed-point transmission device that Tianshenzi had given him.


    "Keep this item here for me. Don''t let anyone touch it," Zhong Shan requested.


    "What is this?" Huan Ji asked, surprised.


    "It''s something that can save lives," Zhong Shan exined without reservation.


    After hearing Zhong Shan''s exnation, Huan Ji patted her chest confidently. "Don''t worry. As long as it''s with me, no one can take it. No one will dare touch it!"


    "Good," Zhong Shan nodded.


    On the third day, Zhong Shan looked at Luo Xingchen, Mr. Corpse, and Nangong Sheng, who stood behind him.


    "Are you ready?"


    "Yes!"


    "Let''s depart!"


    With that, Zhong Shan led the three of them, striding eastward.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 987: Confucius vs. Sa

    <h4>Chapter 987: Confucius vs. Sa</h4>


    Thirty-five yearster.


    After enduring a monotonous journey for thirty-five years, Zhong Shan and hispanions finally reached the boundaries of the Four Great Continents.


    The four travelers��Zhong Shan, Nangong Sheng, Mr. Corpse, and Luo Xingchen��had split into two groups for the journey. Since Luo Xingchen was an ancient immortal, he traveled ahead to the Four Great Continents to gather information.


    There were many notable locations in Xiniu Hezhou, so they agreed to meet near Huoyan Mountain.


    After thirty-five years apart, the four of them reunited atop a peak near Huoyan Mountain.


    "Holy King, you''ve finally arrived!" Luo Xingchen bowed to Zhong Shan.


    "Yes, you''ve worked hard these years," Zhong Shan acknowledged.


    "This was no hardship. Every few days, I''d fly around and asionally capture a few demon kings to inquire about local news," Luo Xingchen replied, shaking his head.


    "The information from Xiniu Hezhou matches what we''ve gathered, correct?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "More or less, but something major has happened recently," Luo Xingchen responded after some thought.


    "Oh?"


    "In Beiju Luzhou, at the Holy Corpse Mountain��the original site of the Biyou Pce, which was the Daoist temple of the Tongtian Sage��''Sa'' resides there. It''s said that there''s been some friction between him and Confucius. Confucius even sent people to test Sa, but they failed and had to retreat. Recently, there are rumors that Confucius himself is nning to make a move," Luo Xingchen exined.


    "Confucius versus Sa?" Zhong Shan''s eyes gleamed with interest.


    "A current Sage against a former Sage��this could be quite intriguing," Mr. Corpse remarked with a strange expression.


    "Sages always have their reasons. I wonder what they''re fighting over," Nangong Sheng mused.


    "Many powerful figures are heading to Beiju Luzhou," Luo Xingchen added.


    "We still have plenty of time before Ying''s grand birthday. Let''s go and see for ourselves!" Zhong Shan decided.


    "Yes!" The others nodded in agreement.


    Just as the four were about to take to the sky, a voice suddenly called out from below the mountain.


    "Who are you?" A sharp voice demanded.


    Zhong Shan looked down in puzzlement and saw a small bull-headed demon that hadn''t fully transformed.


    "Intruders! There are intruders!" the bull-headed demon yelled, and immediately, a swarm of demons flew out from the vicinity of Huoyan Mountain.


    Each demon brandished a weapon, ready to charge.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan paid them no heed.


    Mr. Corpse and the others nodded; these minor demons were hardly worth their attention.


    "Trying to flee? Do you even know where you are?" the bull-headed demon shouted, leading the charge.


    The group of demons prepared to attack, but as Zhong Shan, Luo Xingchen, and Nangong Sheng flew ahead, Mr. Corpse trailed behind. Just as the demons were about to attack, Mr. Corpse nced back and shot them a cold, chilling look.


    With a single gaze��an eerily sinister gaze��Mr. Corpse sent a shiver through the demons, as if they had been plunged into an icy abyss. Cold sweat broke out on their backs, and none of them dared to advance.


    By the time the demons regained their senses, the four had already disappeared from sight.


    The small demons shuddered involuntarily.


    "What just happened?" one demon asked, still trembling with fear.


    "We must report this to the Great King immediately! Four powerful figures suddenly appeared at Huoyan Mountain!" the bull-headed demon urged.


    "But the Great King is currently hosting one of Sun Wukong''s disciples. Wouldn''t barging in recklessly..." another demon hesitated, uncertain.


    "Sun Shen?"


    "Yes, that Sun Shen. I heard he had already died, but somehow he''se back to life, and his cultivation has advanced even further. He''s now so powerful that even our Great King is no match for him."


    "No matter how strong Sun Shen is, he still has to call the Great King ''Master Uncle.'' Let''s wait until the Great King finishes entertaining Sun Shen before we report this," the bull-headed demon suggested.


    "Agreed!" the other demons nodded in agreement.


    <strong>Beiju Luzhou, Holy Corpse Mountain</strong>


    A vast, deste expanse stretched across thend, the sky perpetually overcast, shrouded in thick, roiling clouds that seemed never to dissipate. Only asional shes of lightning pierced the gloom, casting brief, stark illumination.


    Below, thend was engulfed in a miasma of ck energy, a thick, oppressive corpse aura rising from the earth like an eternal exhtion, drifting into the sky in a sinister haze.


    This corpse aura was highly peculiar; it resisted all attempts at spiritual probing. To understand whaty within, one would have to enter it personally. Yet, entering was easy��exiting was not. Few had ever emerged alive, with most who ventured in, even some Great Immortals, meeting their demise.


    The impending battle between Confucius and Sa had been the subject of widespread spection for a long time. As a result, waves of powerful beings had gathered near Holy Corpse Mountain.


    Even if they couldn''t gain anything from it, the chance to witness a Sage in action was a priceless opportunity.


    Zhong Shan and hispanions had arrived near Holy Corpse Mountain two months earlier. They had taken up residence in a secluded valley, protected by a formation set by Nangong Sheng, which kept others at bay. For two months, they had waited.


    During this time, Zhong Shan had captured several cultivators to inquire about the situation across the Four Great Continents.


    "Rumble!"


    On this day, as Zhong Shan and his group waited in the valley, the sky suddenly resounded with thunderous booms.


    Intense light descended from the heavens, crashing against the dark clouds, causing them to rumble loudly.


    "It''s happening! Confucius is finally making his move!" Luo Xingchen''s eyes lit up.


    "Let''s go!"


    The four of them quickly flew out of the valley, ascending to the peak of a nearby mountain.


    From their vantage point, they were far from Holy Corpse Mountain, a distance kept deliberately because everyone knew the intensity of a Sage''s battle��standing too close was a death wish.


    As Zhong Shan emerged, his gaze immediately fixed on the distant sky.


    A massive wave of white light, like a celestial river, surged downward, breaking through the ck clouds. The light flooded the darkenednd, scattering the thick corpse aura below.


    Yet, the ground seemed to continually emit more corpse aura, the ck mist and white light locked in a fierce struggle.


    "That''s the Sage of Great Confucianism! It''s the Sage of Great Confucianism!" someone in the distance eximed in awe.


    Indeed, where the overwhelming white light descended, a figure stood in the void��a man in white robes, his attire flowing like that of a schr. He appeared to be in his forties or fifties, his face obscured, but the sheer force of his presence pressed outwards in all directions,pelling reverence from all who witnessed it.


    "He''s a Sage!" Luo Xingchen confirmed.


    The aura was identical to that of the Sage they had encountered in the underworld long ago��only a Sage could possess such amanding presence.


    "Confucius?"


    Zhong Shan''s expression grew solemn as he stared at the distant sky.


    The white light shed with the corpse aura, neither side gaining the upper hand, but the corpse aura was gradually being pushed back. Through the thinning mist, a towering mountain began to emerge from the gloom.


    On top of the towering mountain stood a massive green pce. In front of the pce, a man dressed in a luxurious ck robe stood tall. His face was obscured, yet just by standing there, he emanated an aura so powerful that it made those who looked upon him feel a tremor in their very souls.


    The man stood with his hands behind his back, looking up at the sky, directly confronting Confucius above.


    Facing a Sage, this man showed not a trace of fear��could it be Sa?


    Spection surged among the onlookers��could Sa truly be that figure?


    Sa nced at Confucius, then extended his right hand, palm facing another nearby mountain.


    "Boom!"


    The mountain began to copse with a deafening roar. Massive, solid rocks cracked and tumbled down in a cascade. Gradually, as the mountain crumbled, a massive green sword was revealed.


    The sword stood a hundred zhang tall, its entire body radiating a green aura that shot skyward, sending endless streams of green sword energy piercing the heavens.


    "The Qingping Sword! Sa is indeed the Tongtian Sage!" someone in the distance suddenly cried out.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed as he observed the scene. He hadn''t been quick to assume that Sa was the embodiment of the Tongtian Sage''s corpse, but now he couldn''t help but wonder. The Qingping Sword, one of the five swords of the Tongtian Sage, had often been overshadowed by the more renowned Four Swords of Zhu Xian, which had led many to overlook it.


    Could Sa really be Tongtian?


    The hundred-zhang Qingping Sword shrank into a beam of green light and shot into Sa''s hand.


    Sa looked up at Confucius, who stared back at him.


    The new and old Sages stood in silent confrontation.


    After a moment, Sa nced at Biyou Pce, then turned his gaze back to the sky. He suddenly shed the Qingping Sword upward.


    "Boom!"


    A massive green river of energy surged skyward, shooting straight at Confucius.


    The green river was so fierce that the space around it began to warp, with small ck holes forming in its wake.


    If the aftershocks alone were so powerful, what must the force of that green river be?


    Sa had made his move.


    And with that one move, the heavens and earth seemed to tremble as the green river shot towards Confucius.


    Perhaps understanding Sa''s intentions, Confucius''s figure flickered and vanished.


    The green river continued its path towards the distant sky.


    Sa surveyed the area, gripping the Qingping Sword in one hand, and with a light pinch of his other hand, the surrounding corpse aura swelled once more, forming sword-shaped ck energy in the four cardinal directions.


    Then, holding the Qingping Sword, Sa disappeared in a sh.


    "The Zhu Xian Sword Formation?" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted.


    Sa had just performed a single hand seal, using corpse aura to form a Zhu Xian Sword Formation?


    The dense ck aura once again shrouded Holy Corpse Mountain, concealing everything within from view.


    "Holy King, just now...!" Luo Xingchen said in shock, pointing towards the sky.


    He pointed to the sky, saying, "There was a star up there just now, a massive star visible to the naked eye. But now it''s gone!"


    "That green sword river from Sa?" Nangong Sheng was equally astonished.


    "To shatter a star with a single swing��how powerful!" Mr. Corpse marveled.


    "Wait, look at the sky!" Luo Xingchen suddenly eximed in surprise.


    In the sky, it seemed as though two stars��one green and one white��were moving. They moved as if colliding with each other, and wherever they passed, other stars disappeared, crumbling into nothingness.


    "Those aren''t stars; that''s Confucius and Sa! They''re fighting in the cosmos!" Luo Xingchen said gravely.


    It wasn''t just Zhong Shan and his group who were shocked. All the powerful beings gathered around were filled with terror. The power of Sages was beyond imagination. To think they had once believed they could observe such a battle safely from a distance��how naive they had been. Even from this far away, they could be obliterated by the aftermath of the battle between the two Sages.


    But Zhong Shan''s focus was on Holy Corpse Mountain.


    There was a hint of seriousness in Zhong Shan''s eyes.


    He recalled that just before Sa had ascended, he had nced at Biyou Pce. What was in there? And the fact that Sa had formed the Zhu Xian Sword Formation upon leaving only confirmed Zhong Shan''s suspicions.


    What was in Biyou Pce that made Sa so cautious?


    Could it be the very thing Confucius hade for?


    Zhong Shan wasn''t the only one who had noticed this. Many other sharp-eyed observers had also picked up on the clue.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 988: The First Power of the Xuanyuan Bow

    <h4>Chapter 988: The First Power of the Xuanyuan Bow</h4>


    Powerful cultivators from all over had gathered in anticipation of the battle. From mortal Nascent Soul cultivators to ancient immortals, every kind of practitioner was present. After all, a battle between Sages was a rare spectacle.


    In a secluded valley, a group of bald monks stood together, keeping a low profile. However, these individuals were anything but simple��no one dared to provoke them, and most kept a respectful distance.


    Among the monks, two stood out due to their stark contrast in appearance. One was fat, with an open chest that exuded a sense of carefree joy, while the other was thin, d in traditional monastic robes, and appeared more disciplined.


    "Ran Deng, is that Zhong Shan up on that peak?" the fat monk asked with a smile.


    The thin monk was none other than Ran Deng, the ancient Buddha. After the disappearance of his Daoist temple, Ran Deng hade here.


    Ran Deng nced up at the peak where Zhong Shan stood, a lingering fear in his heart. Zhong Shan?


    "Don''t worry. This is not the Fengzong Territory. No matter how powerful Zhong Shan is, he can''t overpower our Great Thunder Sound Temple. What do you say? Do you want to settle your old score?" the fat monk teased with a smile.


    Ran Deng looked at Zhong Shan in the distance, feeling a chill in his heart. He shook his head and replied, "Maitreya, I appreciate your goodwill, but I don''t want to provoke Zhong Shan again. Let bygones be bygones."


    Ran Deng no longer dared to challenge Zhong Shan. The blue light from theirst encounter had left him traumatized. He had narrowly escaped disaster due to his past experiences, but even so, it had been a life-and-death struggle. It wasn''t until recently that the bad luck had finally dissipated. He had also learned about the deaths of Sima Yuan and the Zixiao Sect Leader, who had also been hit by that blue light.


    Ran Deng had no desire to face such misfortune again and declined Maitreya''s offer outright.


    "Alright, since you, the one directly involved, want to let it go, I won''t press the matter," Maitreya said with augh.


    Meanwhile, on another peak, a loud shout echoed through the mountains.


    "Great King, it''s them!" A cry rang out from another mountaintop.


    On the peak stood a group of formidable demons. Among them were two notable figures��one with a pair of jet-ck horns, and the other, a man with an exceptionally fairplexion.


    Around them were numerous demons, with arge battle g nted on the peak. The g bore the bold character "Niu" (ţ).


    The shout hade from one of the bull-headed demons.


    Hearing the cry, the demons turned their attention to the four proud-looking men standing on a distant peak.


    "Are those the intruders in my Huoyan Mountain?" the horned demon asked.


    "Zhong Shan?" The fair-skinned man''s eyes narrowed as he recognized him.


    "You know him, Sun Shen?" The horned demon, known as the Bull Demon King, asked in slight confusion.


    "Great King, this man and I have a score to settle. It looks like we''ll have to dy our n to storm Biyou Pce. Let me deal with him first," Sun Shen replied with a dark expression.


    "With your level of cultivation, it should be quick. The main assault on Holy Corpse Mountain hasn''t started yet, and the Confucian sages haven''t made their move. Finish him swiftly," the Bull Demon King agreed.


    "Just a few hundred years ago, he was still a mortal. How much time could he possibly take?" A hint of disdain flickered in Sun Shen''s eyes as he stepped forward and flew towards Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan, aware that his reputation was rtively unknown in thesends, had deliberately chosen to stand on the highest peak.


    "Holy King, are we going inside?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "Entering is inevitable. All these powerful beings, including Confucius''s seventy-one disciples, are here for what lies within Biyou Pce," Zhong Shan replied in a deep voice.


    "Even Confucius is involved, so whatever''s inside must be extraordinary," Nangong Sheng remarked.


    As they discussed, Sun Shen swiftly approached them, his intent to confront Zhong Shan unmistakable. This encounter would likely be the prelude to the unfolding events surrounding Biyou Pce and the secrets it held.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded.


    At that moment, a particrly eager cultivator, anxious to make the first move, dashed forward and plunged into the dense corpse aura surrounding Holy Corpse Mountain.


    Through the thick ck mist, onlookers could barely make out the shes of ck sword energy rising from the corpse aura.


    "Aaahhh!!!"


    A bloodcurdling scream echoed through the air as the first intruder was instantly torn apart by the relentless sword energy. Only his head managed to escape the carnage, but even that was quickly consumed by the power of the Zhu Xian Sword Formation. Sword energy erupted from within the head, obliterating it in an instant.


    "Boom!"


    The head exploded, leaving no trace behind.


    The other onlookers, who had been on the verge of advancing, collectively drew in a sharp breath. What kind of formation was this? It was terrifying!


    "The Zhu Xian Sword Formation?" Zhong Shan muttered in surprise.


    "Holy King, should we proceed?" Mr. Corpse asked again.


    Zhong Shan observed the situation for a while before replying, "Let''s move closer first. When the other cultivators start breaking through the Zhu Xian Sword Formation, I''ll lead you in."


    "Yes!" the others responded without hesitation.


    They trusted Zhong Shanpletely. If he said he could lead them through the formation, they believed he could.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan ordered.


    Just as they were about to move, a loud shout interrupted their ns.


    "Zhong Shan!"


    The voice was filled with anger and instantly drew the attention of everyone present.


    The battle between the Sages in the sky was distant and could only be observed as two points of light in the cosmos. In contrast, the events on the ground were immediate and captivating. In this critical moment, someone was seeking vengeance?


    Who could it be?


    "It''s Sun Shen!" someone suddenly eximed.


    Everyone''s attention turned to a man in white who had suddenly appeared in mid-air, ring furiously at the peak where Zhong Shan and hispanions stood.


    "Sun Shen? The disciple of the legendary Sun Wukong? I heard he mastered his master''s techniques, and after Sun Wukong''s death, he surpassed him. He recently became an ancient immortal!"


    "It looks like he''s out for revenge."


    "Whoever offended Sun Shen is in for a world of trouble."


    "Who are those people on the mountain? I''ve never seen them before."


    "Do you know those four?"


    "Nope, never seen them."


    ...


    The crowd buzzed with spection. Who was Zhong Shan?


    In the Fengzong Territory, Zhong Shan was a household name, and some of the nearby powers knew of him as well. But here, in the Four Great Continents, far from the Fengzong Territory, his name was unknown. The world was full of legendary figures; adding one more or losing one didn''t make much difference, which was why most people had never heard of Zhong Shan.


    In a distant valley, Ran Deng and Maitreya watched the confrontation from afar.


    "Heh, Ran Deng, it seems someone is seeking vengeance on your behalf. You won''t even need to lift a finger," Maitreya chuckled.


    Ran Deng remained silent, deep in thought as he watched the unfolding scene from a distance. He couldn''t help but reflect on the possible oues and what it might mean for the events about to transpire.


    Zhong Shan and his three subordinates were just about to take advantage of the chaos to move closer to Holy Corpse Mountain when suddenly, someone appeared to block their path, calling out Zhong Shan''s name with hostility.


    Zhong Shan looked up and recognized the figure. Sun Qitian? No, Sun Qitian was already dead. It was Sun Shen��the man with the same face. How unexpected to encounter him here!


    "Zhong Shan, it''s time to settle the old scores from the Thousand Worlds," Sun Shen said coldly, his voice dripping with malice.


    With a swift motion, Sun Shen produced a staff. The staff had golden hoops on both ends, with a central section made of dark iron. Engraved on it were golden characters: <strong>"Ruyi Jingu Bang"</strong>��the famed Golden Cudgel.


    "The Golden Cudgel?" Zhong Shan''s expression turned slightly peculiar. A sense of surrealism washed over him, as if he were colliding with the myths of old.


    "It really is a revenge match. He''s even brought out the Golden Cudgel!" someone from the distant crowd shouted.


    "Sun Shen''s wielding the Golden Cudgel! Does that mean this Zhong Shan is really strong?"


    "No matter how strong he is, he''ll just end up as another soul crushed under the cudgel!"


    ...


    This was the power of reputation. The onlookers knew of Sun Shen''s strength but were ignorant of Zhong Shan''s capabilities, so they naturally assumed Zhong Shan was doomed. It was just like in the Fengzong Territory, where anyone who dared to challenge Zhong Shan was seen as a dead man walking.


    Sun Shen was ready to kill Zhong Shan, but Zhong Shan had no intention of showing mercy either. The grudges from the Thousand Worlds were not worth discussing; if Sun Shen still wanted to cling to them, Zhong Shan had no problem erasing himpletely.


    Luo Xingchen, understanding Zhong Shan''s unspokenmand, stepped forward, producing a golden longbow��a sight that caused a stir among the onlookers.


    "The Xuanyuan Bow? It looks just like the Xuanyuan Bow from the Li family!"


    "Maybe it''s just a replica."


    "Even if it''s the real one, can it beat Sun Shen?"


    ...


    Luckily, Nezha wasn''t present; otherwise, his face would surely have darkened at the sight of the bow.


    "Picked up anotherckey, I see?" Sun Shen sneered, dismissing Luo Xingchen.


    Zhong Shan remained silent, not bothering to respond. Luo Xingchen, focused on his task, had no intention of wasting time either. His goal was to eliminate Sun Shen as quickly as possible to ease his lord''s burdens.


    Luo Xingchen nocked a golden arrow and drew the bowstring. As he did, a tremendous amount of heavenly energy gathered around the arrow, empowering it further.


    "Fire!"


    Luo Xingchen released the arrow, and it shot forth like a golden streak of light, a rainbow speeding toward Sun Shen.


    The arrow moved too fast��so fast that Sun Shen barely had time to react. In an instant, the arrow was upon him. He barely managed to raise the Golden Cudgel in defense.


    "Boom!"


    A deafening explosion followed as Sun Shen was sent flying back a hundred li, finally managing to stop himself. In this first exchange, Sun Shen had been forced into a disadvantage.


    The crowd, which had been so sure of Sun Shen''s victory, now stared in disbelief.


    Sun Shen, who had been knocked back, was now enraged. With a furious swing of the Golden Cudgel, he prepared to charge forward again. But Luo Xingchen was faster. He nocked another arrow and fired, sending another streak of golden light straight at Sun Shen.


    The arrows, once released, expanded to ten zhang in width, leaving long trails of afterimages as they shot toward Sun Shen like falling meteors.


    It wasn''t just one or two arrows��Luo Xingchen unleashed a barrage, each arrow a golden streak crashing down from various angles, like a devastating meteor shower.


    The spectacle was dazzling.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Sun Shen could only raise the Golden Cudgel to block the onught, his figure repeatedly battered by the force of the arrows. Meanwhile, Luo Xingchen had taken to the sky, firing arrows with incredible speed and precision from all directions.


    In mere moments, over a hundred arrows had been fired.


    The onlookers were left speechless as they watched the golden arrows rain down on Sun Shen like a relentless storm. The arrows even caused the surrounding space to ripple and distort.


    This was no ordinary battle��this was pure devastation. The once formidable Sun Shen, a figure of respect and fear, was now being utterly overwhelmed, his hair disheveled, his face flushed with anger and blood as he struggled to defend himself.


    "Who is this monster?" the Bull Demon King muttered in shock, unable to believe his eyes.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 989: The Patriarch Bodhi

    <h4>Chapter 989: The Patriarch Bodhi</h4>


    The Bull Demon King stood in stunned silence, his mouth agape. A distinguished ancient immortal, being suppressed so miserably?


    The small demons under the Bull Demon King were even more terrified. Just a few months ago, they had been brandishing their weapons, ready to take on Zhong Shan and his group. But now? Could they have possibly defeated such a formidable group? Some of the demons'' weapons ttered to the ground, dropped in shock.


    Everyone was dumbfounded��the contrast between their expectations and the reality before them was too stark, leaving many unable to process what they were witnessing.


    In the mountain valley, Ran Deng''s expression flickered with a trace of emotion, though he remained silent. Maitreya, however, wore an odd expression on his face.


    Zhong Shan''s entourage, any one of them, was this powerful?


    Streams of golden light shot continuously toward Sun Shen. He was no longer just in a difficult situation; his shoulder had been grazed by one of the arrows, causing intense pain.


    <strong>The Xuanyuan Bow?</strong> Sun Shen thought in shock. It wasn''t this powerful in Nezha''s hands, was it?


    Sun Shen was bewildered. Nezha wielding the Xuanyuan Bow couldn''tpare to Luo Xingchen. Luo Xingchen''s cultivation was a whole realm higher, and he specialized in archery, unlike Nezha. Plus, he possessed time-based divine abilities, which further enhanced his mastery of the bow.


    Luo Xingchen''s control over the Xuanyuan Bow far surpassed Nezha''s.


    Arrows, like falling stars, rained down with deadly precision, each onending perilously close to Sun Shen.


    "Boom!" "Boom!" "Boom!"


    The powerful impact of the arrows pushed Sun Shen back, shattering mountains in his path. The pressure on him was mounting, and his defeat was bing more and more apparent.


    The entire sky seemed to belong to Luo Xingchen alone.


    Sun Shen, gradually overwhelmed, was forced to the ground. He couldn''t even manage to stay airborne, something he had never expected, nor had the countless onlookers. How had the situation turned so dire so quickly?


    "Boom!"


    Another golden arrow struck, creating a deep crater where Sun Shen had been standing.


    "Boom!" "Boom!" "Boom!"


    A rapid session of nearly a hundred golden arrows followed, all converging on the crater. The concentrated barrage of arrows left everyone watching in awe and fear. This was terrifying.


    The crater, now a thousand zhang wide and bottomless, trembled with each arrow that hit, causing the earth itself to quake.


    Luo Xingchen hovered in the sky, his gaze icy as he looked down at the crater below.


    Suddenly, with a loud explosion, dirt and debris were sted into the air as Sun Shen, battered and beaten, emerged from the crater. His clothes were tattered, his hair disheveled, and his face smeared with blood and mud. He looked utterly miserable. But what shocked everyone the most was the Golden Cudgel in his hand.


    One of the golden bands on the cudgel was slightly bent!


    The sight of this left nearly everyone gasping in disbelief. <strong>The Golden Cudgel��bent?</strong>


    Those watching didn''t just feel shock anymore; they felt terror. They looked at Luo Xingchen not with astonishment, but with fear.


    "Who are you?" Sun Shen shouted in disbelief.


    How could Zhong Shan''s random subordinate be so overwhelmingly powerful?


    Luo Xingchen didn''t respond. Instead, he calmly took out a long, emerald green arrow, his eyes narrowing as he drew the bowstring.


    This arrow was different from the golden ones before, but no one dared to underestimate it.


    Seeing Luo Xingchen prepare to shoot again, Sun Shen''s expression changed drastically. He charged forward, the Golden Cudgel still guarding his body.


    A cold gleam shed in Luo Xingchen''s eyes.


    "Fire!"


    With that, he released the arrow.


    "Boom!"


    Sun Shen was once again sent flying backward.


    This time, there was no radiant explosion��just a single arrow shot with such speed that it seemed to traverse space and time itself, reaching Sun Shen before anyone could even see iting. It was so fast that Sun Shen didn''t even have time to raise his Golden Cudgel in defense.


    As he was propelled backward, Sun Shen stared in horror at his chest, where the arrow had pierced straight through him.


    The crowd around them collectively gasped.


    The Bull Demon King, who had already drawn his weapon and was preparing to charge forward, suddenly halted in mid-motion, his weapon frozen in the air.


    Fight? How could he fight?


    Sun Shen had beenpletely and utterly defeated. The archer with the bow seemed invincible��who could possibly stand against him? The speed of that green arrow was so fast it was invisible. Charging forward would be nothing short of suicidal.


    What made the Bull Demon King even more apprehensive was the realization that this archer appeared to be merely one of Zhong Shan''s subordinates.


    If even a subordinate was this powerful, then what of Zhong Shan himself? And what of the other two subordinates?


    Staring at Zhong Shan, who stood atop the peak, the Bull Demon King swallowed hard, unsure if he should risk his life by attacking.


    The other powerful cultivators also turned their gazes toward Zhong Shan and his threepanions. It was now evident that Luo Xingchen, the archer, was a subordinate of Zhong Shan. Who were these people, and how could they be so terrifyingly strong?


    In the distant valley, Maitreya''s eyes were wide with shock.


    "Ran Deng, did you see the speed of that green arrow?" Maitreya''s usual smile faded, reced by a serious expression.


    "It was too fast��I could barely catch a glimpse of the afterimage. Even for me, it would be nearly impossible to dodge," Ran Deng replied, shaking his head.


    "Yes, it was far too fast! That wasn''t the speed of an ordinary ancient immortal weapon," Maitreya said, his tone now grave.


    "The crucial question is, was that green arrow his limit?" Ran Deng wondered aloud.


    Indeed, was that green arrow the extent of Luo Xingchen''s power? What if he pulled out an even stronger yellow arrow or a purple arrow next?


    Moreover, what about the other two people standing behind Zhong Shan? Could they be just as formidable?


    Maitreya nced at Ran Deng and finally understood why the usually proud and aloof monk had decided to abandon this particr karmic entanglement.


    Sun Shen, staring at the green arrow lodged in his chest, couldn''t believe what had just happened. He hadn''t even seen the arrowing, let alone how it had struck him. Worse still, the green arrow seemed to be radiating a reverse flow of energy, causing the energy within his body to collide violently with itself, inflicting severe internal injuries.


    Sun Shen now realized that he was no match for this opponent, absolutely no match.


    As Luo Xingchen calmly nocked another green arrow onto his bowstring, the onlookers seemed to collectively hold their breath. It was clear to everyone��today might very well be the day Sun Shen met his end.


    Seeing the arrow aimed at him, Sun Shen turned and fled without hesitation.


    An ancient immortal, driven to flee by a mere archer? But when faced with the threat to his life, Sun Shen had no choice.


    Flee?


    How could he possibly outrun Luo Xingchen? His speed was inferior, and the arrows were even faster.


    "Boom!"


    Another arrow pierced through his heart, worsening Sun Shen''s injuries. His face twisted in terror as he continued to flee.


    The Golden Cudgel grewrger, moving to shield him from behind.


    "Boom!"


    Another arrow struck the Golden Cudgel, causing it to tremble violently, but it managed to hold.


    Sun Shen didn''t dare to stop, two arrows now lodged in his chest, as he desperately sped toward a distant horizon.


    Luo Xingchen was faster, and in the blink of an eye, he had overtaken Sun Shen, forcing him to change directions in a desperate attempt to escape. It was like a cat ying with a mouse; Sun Shen waspletely at the mercy of Luo Xingchen, unable to break free from the relentless pursuit.


    The Golden Cudgel managed to block a few green arrows, but Luo Xingchen wasn''t done yet. He paused, watching Sun Shen flee, and slowly drew out a red arrow.


    The arrow was blood-red, and as he nocked it and drew the bowstring, an immense amount of blood-colored energy gathered from all around, enveloping Luo Xingchen. The surrounding space began to tremble slightly, as if forewarning the devastating power this arrow would unleash.


    Even before the arrow was released, the very air seemed to quake. If this arrow were to be fired, what kind of destruction would it bring?


    In the distance, the Bull Demon King looked on in shock, Ran Deng maintained a calm demeanor, and Maitreya''s expression became increasingly peculiar.


    "Fire!"


    Luo Xingchen finally let the arrow loose. It flew like a river of blood, surging toward Sun Shen. Wherever it passed, space trembled and the earth below split apart, leaving a massive, gaping trench in its wake.


    A terrifying pressure bore down on Sun Shen, who was flying through the air. When he sensed the red arrow approaching from behind, his face turned ashen with fear. In that moment, Sun Shen was filled with regret. How had he ended up in such a dire situation? Where had Zhong Shan found such a terrifying subordinate?


    Sun Shen could feel that even the Golden Cudgel might not be able to withstand the force of this red arrow.


    "My life is over!" Sun Shen screamed in despair.


    "Boom!"


    With a thunderous explosion, the red river of energy detonated behind Sun Shen. The shockwave spread out in all directions, causing trees within a thousand li to bend and break under the force.


    The red arrow had been stopped, and Sun Shen was saved!


    Luo Xingchen, holding the Xuanyuan Bow, hovered in the sky, his gaze fixed on the figure who had blocked his arrow.


    It was an old Taoist in white robes, with a long white beard.


    Seeing that he had been rescued, Sun Shen''s expression shifted from shock to tion. He quickly flew towards the old Taoist.


    "Master, save me!" Sun Shen cried out.


    The old Taoist waved his horsetail whisk, and Sun Shen understood, falling silent and taking refuge behind him.


    Luo Xingchen eyed the old Taoist warily. Anyone who could block one of his arrows was no ordinary person.


    "Patriarch Bodhi? He''s here too?" someone eximed in the crowd.


    "Is that really Patriarch Bodhi? Didn''t he sever ties with Sun Wukong long ago? Why is he helping now?"


    The crowd erupted in whispers and spection.


    Patriarch Bodhi nced at Luo Xingchen before turning his attention to Zhong Shan.


    "I''ve heard Ying mention Holy King Zhong many times. Now that I''ve met you, I see that you are indeed extraordinary. I am Bodhi. I humbly ask Holy King Zhong to spare my disciple this time," Patriarch Bodhi said respectfully to Zhong Shan.


    "Holy King Zhong? Who''s that?"


    "No wonder! Zhong Shan is a Holy King of some sacred court��no wonder his subordinates are so strong!"


    "Even Patriarch Bodhi is speaking to him so courteously? Just who is this Zhong Shan? How powerful is he?"


    "He must be incredibly strong!"


    The crowd continued to murmur, their curiosity and awe toward Zhong Shan growing with each passing moment.


    Zhong Shan looked at Patriarch Bodhi, his expression shifting slightly. <strong>''I''ve heard Ying mention...''</strong> If Patriarch Bodhi wasn''t a friend, Ying wouldn''t have mentioned Zhong Shan to him. Could it be that Bodhi and Ying were old acquaintances?


    Moreover, Patriarch Bodhi was a Progenitor Immortal, a figure whose depth could not be easily gauged ording to the information Zhong Shan had gathered. There was no need to make an enemy of him at this point.


    Nodding slightly, Zhong Shan said calmly, "Since Patriarch Bodhi has spoken, let this matter end here."


    "Thank you, Holy King Zhong!" Patriarch Bodhi replied with a smile.


    With a sweep of hisrge sleeve, Patriarch Bodhi and Sun Shen vanished from the scene.


    All around, the gathered cultivators stared nkly at what had just transpired. Was it over? Just like that?


    The Bull Demon King took a deep look at Zhong Shan, and from the distance, Maitreya did the same. Of course, every strong figure present was now intently focused on Zhong Shan,mitting his name and face to memory.


    This was a man to whom even Patriarch Bodhi would show respect.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 990: The World鈥檚 Greatest Treasure

    <h4>Chapter 990: The World��s Greatest Treasure</h4>


    Luo Xingchen returned to Zhong Shan''s side, and at that moment, no one dared to underestimate the four of them.


    The scene fell into silence once more. In the sky above, the white and green stars representing the Sages continued to sh, their battle far from over.


    "Holy King, what should we do now? Many eyes are on us," Luo Xingchen said, frowning.


    Zhong Shan was well aware that they were the center of attention. With so many eyes watching, it would be difficult to move discreetly.


    "The water is too clear, so let''s muddy it up," Zhong Shan said.


    With that, Zhong Shan took to the air, and the other three naturally followed him.


    Their departure immediately drew the attention of all the surrounding cultivators. Were they about to attempt to break the formation?


    No one tried to stop them, but everyone watched intently, with a mix of anticipation and anxiety.


    Some hoped the four would seed in breaking the formation, while others feared they would. After all, no one wanted the treasures within Biyou Pce to fall into the hands of outsiders.


    The four of them shot through the sky, arriving near Holy Corpse Mountain in the blink of an eye.


    The Bull Demon King frowned deeply, while Ran Deng and Maitreya focused intently. The other powerful cultivators also kept a close watch, ready to charge forward at the first sign of an opening.


    "Boom!"


    As they approached Holy Corpse Mountain, a cloud of peach-colored mist suddenly enveloped the area. When the mist cleared, the four of them were gone.


    The corpse aura around Holy Corpse Mountain rippled slightly, and then, the four figures disappeared from sight.


    A heavy silence fell over the crowd as everyone stared in disbelief. Had they really gone in?


    One breath, five breaths, ten breaths, twenty breaths, a hundred breaths passed.


    After the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, those who had been eyeing the treasures of Biyou Pce could no longer sit still.


    Had the four of them entered? Had they already obtained the treasures within Biyou Pce?


    From the north, more than fifty disciples in Confucian robes suddenly took to the sky.


    The disciples of the Confucian school were the first to move!


    Their action was like a spark that set off a wildfire, and in an instant, arge number of powerful cultivators from all sides rushed forward. The Bull Demon King, Ran Deng, Maitreya, and many others joined in the charge toward Holy Corpse Mountain.


    "Boom!"


    The first to attack the formation was a man in green robes, who struck the formation with a powerful de, triggering a retaliatory barrage of sword energy from the formation.


    One by one, the cultivators unleashed their own treasures,unching a coordinated assault on the formation.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The area around the formation resounded with thunderous explosions, but despite the intensity of the attack, Sa''s Zhu Xian Sword Formation proved too formidable to be breached easily.


    Yet, as the assault reached a fever pitch, some of the attackers began to slow down and eventually stopped altogether.


    This pause in the assault seemed contagious, and soon nearly everyone had ceased their attacks, turning to stare in shock at one particr spot.


    At the entrance of a valley, Zhong Shan and his threepanions stood calmly, watching the others assault the Zhu Xian Sword Formation with an air of leisure.


    "Zhong Shan didn''t enter Holy Corpse Mountain?" countless cultivators muttered in disbelief.


    A wave of frustration and disbelief swept over the crowd.


    Some of the more impulsive cultivators nearly cursed aloud. They had only revealed themselves and joined the attack because they believed Zhong Shan had already entered. Otherwise, they would have waited patiently in the background, ready to y the role of the mantis behind the cicada, pouncing only after the others had exhausted themselves breaking the formation.


    Now, it seemed they had been thoroughly outmaneuvered by Zhong Shan.


    But now, Zhong Shan''s leisurely departure hadpletely disrupted everyone''s ns. Many of the onlookers red at Zhong Shan and his group with anger and frustration.


    "Let''s go!" Zhong Shan said calmly, shaking his head.


    Ignoring the hostile stares of the other cultivators, Zhong Shan led his three subordinates away, flying off with a casual, almost dismissive attitude.


    "Is Zhong Shan really not going to enter Holy Corpse Mountain?" The previously furious cultivators were now left in a state of bewilderment.


    In truth, Zhong Shan hadn''t entered Holy Corpse Mountain earlier but had simply found a ce to hide. It was a simple maneuver, but it effectively shifted the attention of the other powerful cultivators away from him.


    Now, with the focus of the others firmly on the treasures within Biyou Pce, Zhong Shan and his group could move more freely.


    Zhong Shan led his threepanions to a distant, secluded forest, where they once again slipped out of sight.


    "Alright, now let''s head back. I''ll lead you into Holy Corpse Mountain," Zhong Shan suddenly announced.


    "Holy King, why didn''t we go in earlier?" Luo Xingchen asked, still puzzled.


    "Earlier? Earlier would have meant entering Biyou Pce with everyone''s eyes on us. Now, we can enter unnoticed. Do you think if we really managed to take something from Sa, and the whole world knew about it, we''d be able to leave the Four Great Continents alive?" Zhong Shan replied solemnly.


    "I understand," Luo Xingchen nodded.


    By taking this detour, Zhong Shan not only diverted the attention of the world but also possibly that of Sa��or even Confucius. Being under the scrutiny of a Sage was definitely not a desirable situation.


    The four of them made slight changes to their appearances and split into two groups to fly back toward Holy Corpse Mountain.


    By this time, more and more cultivators were heading toward Holy Corpse Mountain, so whether Zhong Shan was among them or not didn''t make much difference.


    Soon, the four of them regrouped at the foot of Holy Corpse Mountain.


    All around them, powerful cultivators were either attacking the perimeter of the formation or boldly trying to break through by entering directly.


    Zhong Shan and his group chose thetter approach and quickly slipped inside.


    One incense stickter.


    The Baji Tianwei, with its tails formed from the Four Swords of Zhu Xian, effortlessly carried the four of them to the base of the mountain where Biyou Pce stood.


    There had been no obstacles, no attacks from the sword qi within the formation��as if the Baji Tianwei had been recognized and allowed to pass unharmed.


    Turning to look back at the countless cultivators struggling and being ughtered by the sword qi in the formation, Mr. Corpse and the others couldn''t help but feel a bit odd. They had managed to enter without any danger at all?


    "Holy King, let''s go up. There must be great treasures inside Biyou Pce!" Luo Xingchen said, a hint of excitement in his voice.


    "No," Zhong Shan suddenly shook his head.


    "Uh?"


    "Stay here. Don''t move, and don''t use your spiritual sense to probe. Mr. Corpse, send a low-level zombie underground to scout the area," Zhong Shan instructed firmly.


    "Understood!" Mr. Corpse immediatelyplied, releasing a zombie to burrow underground and head toward Biyou Pce.


    Why was Zhong Shan so cautious? It was because he remembered what had happened in the Hall of Stars.


    In the Hall of Stars, the ce where Nuwa had left her final words to the fox n, the Sage Mozi had used magic to manifest the time shadows left by the Supreme Sage from tens of thousands of years ago. If a Sage could do that, could Sa do it as well? If he could, then the moment they set foot on this mountain, Sa would know, and they would have to constantly look over their shoulders for his inevitable pursuit.


    Zhong Shan knew that entering Biyou Pce without proper precautions could lead to endless trouble.


    Mr. Corpse retrieved a crystal ball from his belongings.


    The images of what the zombie saw were projected onto the surface of the crystal ball.


    Biyou Pce?


    Surprisingly, Sa had not set any restrictions, and the zombie was able to poke its head out and peer into Biyou Pce.


    Biyou Pce was incredibly grand, several timesrger than the Hall of Longevity. In the northern part of the pce stood a high tform with a cushion on it, likely where the Tongtian Sage had once sat. Below, numerous cushions were arranged in two rows, clearly intended for disciples to sit and listen to the teachings.


    On the eastern side of Biyou Pce, Zhong Shan and the others finally saw what Confucius had been trying to obtain. When theyid eyes on it, even the usuallyposed group couldn''t help but feel a surge of excitement.


    It was a jade stele, standing ten zhang tall, partially embedded in the ground with only the top ten zhang exposed. The stele was smooth and emitted a twelve-colored radiance.


    But the true significance wasn''t the stele itself��it was the two ancient characters inscribed upon it:


    <strong>"Creation~~</strong>"


    The sight of these words made Mr. Corpse and the others feel as if they could hear their own hearts pounding in their chests. They exchanged nces before looking to Zhong Shan.


    "Is that... the Creation Jade Disc, the Creation Heaven Scripture?" Mr. Corpse asked, his voice trembling with excitement.


    "That''s the most powerful treasure of the Dao Ancestor Hongjun, the Creation Jade Disc, which contains the Creation Heaven Scripture!" Luo Xingchen added, equally stirred.


    "No wonder even Confucius wants to seize it!" Nangong Sheng couldn''t suppress his own excitement.


    The Creation Jade Disc? How could Zhong Shan not have heard of it? Among the nine Sages of the mortal realm, Hongjun Daozu was the most powerful, and his treasure was this very Creation Jade Disc, said to contain the Creation Heaven Scripture. It was the most coveted treasure of its time, the <strong>greatest treasure in the world</strong>!


    Not just of its time, but even now, in the eyes of the world, it was still the greatest treasure. A treasure for which even Sages would go to war!


    And now, this so-called greatest treasure in the world was right in front of them, seemingly waiting to be imed.


    Even Zhong Shan couldn''t help but feel a strong temptation.


    "Holy King, shall I have the zombie retrieve it?" Mr. Corpse immediately suggested.


    "Wait!" Zhong Shan quickly interrupted.


    Despite the overwhelming urge to im the treasure, a voice deep within Zhong Shan''s mind urged caution. He forced himself to calm down, taking several deep breaths before shaking his head.


    "We don''t have the ability to take the Creation Jade Disc," Zhong Shan said, his tone resolute.


    This was the greatest treasure in the world, but it was also the greatest curse. Zhong Shan didn''t want to die! It wasn''t just about whether Sa had left any marks on it. The moment the news of them obtaining the Creation Jade Disc leaked out, every Progenitor Immortal would hunt them down, and every Sage would turn against them. Trying to seize it would be pure folly!


    Zhong Shan''s words quickly brought the others back to their senses, and they too felt a cold sweat on their backs as they calmed down.


    "Let''s see if there''s anything else. We can''tpete for the Creation Jade Disc, but there might be something else of value. None of the treasures of a Sage are simple," Zhong Shan suggested.


    "Understood," Mr. Corpse agreed.


    The zombie turned away from the jade stele and explored the rest of the empty Biyou Pce. It seemed that after the fall of the Tongtian Sage, most of the treasures had been looted by powerful figures.


    Finally, in one corner, the group spotted something else.


    "That purple coffin?" Nangong Sheng immediately recognized it.


    "Yes, that''s the purple coffin where Sa oncey, a coffin capable of storing the body of a Sage! ording to our previous observations, this coffin can also absorb ''Habitual Energy,''" Mr. Corpse said, his eyes gleaming with interest.


    "Habitual Energy? The kind of energy only Sages can wield?" Luo Xingchen asked, a bit startled.


    "Exactly," Mr. Corpse confirmed with a nod.


    At this point, Biyou Pce seemed rather empty, with only the two items remaining: the purple coffin and the Creation Jade Disc.


    "Holy King, may I take the purple coffin? It would be extremely useful to me," Mr. Corpse asked Zhong Shan, his tone slightly hopeful.


    "We can''t take the Creation Jade Disc, but the purple coffin should be safe enough. Take it, and make sure to refine it quickly in case Sa has left any marks on it! But we shouldn''t need to worry in the short term, as Sa will be too preupied with protecting the Creation Jade Disc," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Thank you, Holy King! Don''t worry, Holy King��once we reach the center of the Four Great Continents, I can use the Evil Ghost Blood Pool under the Yellow Springs Road to wash away any traces!" Mr. Corpse replied, clearly excited by the prospect.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 991: The Perverse Utility of the Purple Coffin

    <h4>Chapter 991: The Perverse Utility of the Purple Coffin</h4>


    It wasn''t long before Mr. Corpse''s zombie emerged from the ground, carrying the massive purple coffin with it.


    "Holy King, are we really leaving the Creation Jade Disc behind?" Luo Xingchen still couldn''t hide his reluctance.


    "We can''t," Mr. Corpse interjected, shaking his head.


    "The Creation Jade Disc is surrounded by a powerful restriction. The zombie almost got incinerated when it got too close," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "A restriction left by Sa?" Luo Xingchen finally epted the reality.


    "Even the depths of the earth are filled with sword qi. We''ll need to use the Baji Tianwei to get out," Mr. Corpse added, turning to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nodded and, with a wave of his hand, summoned the Baji Tianwei once more. The creature grewrger, its tails wrapping around the group and the coffin as they began to tunnel back out.


    As they moved, the Zhu Xian Sword Formation began to tremble, indicating that without Sa''s direct control and without the true Zhu Xian Swords, the formation wouldn''t be able to hold back the external forces for much longer.


    Silently, Zhong Shan and his group emerged from the formation.


    Meanwhile, the purple coffin continued to be carried further away by the zombie, still burrowing through the earth.


    "Quick, the formation is about to break!"


    "The Confucian disciples have already gone inside!"


    "Everyone, keep pushing!"


    "Brothers, follow me in!"


    Chaos reigned outside the formation. More and more people were breaking through, and the formation around Holy Corpse Mountain was on the verge of copse. Zhong Shan even noticed a Nascent Soul cultivator trying to sneak in, hoping to grab a share of the treasures.


    Standing at the foot of the mountain, Zhong Shan surveyed the chaotic scene.


    "Holy King, we should leave now," Mr. Corpse urged.


    "No, let''s throw some fuel on the fire," Zhong Shan replied with a mischievous grin.


    "Uh?" Mr. Corpse was puzzled, but he watched as Zhong Shan''s n unfolded.


    The formation had not yetpletely broken, and although there was a lot of noise andmotion, many of the most powerful cultivators had yet to make their move. Among these were Patriarch Bodhi, who was standing quietly at the base of a mountain, as well as Ran Deng and Maitreya, who were observing from a distance.


    As the crowd surged forward, a sudden shout erupted from within the Zhu Xian Sword Formation.


    "Uncle Zilu has entered Biyou Pce! Hold them back! The Creation Jade Disc belongs to the Confucian Sect!" The shout was abrupt, not particrly loud, but it cut through the noise, catching everyone''s attention.


    The Creation Jade Disc?


    For a moment, silence fell over the crowd. Breathless, they stared at the formation, their eyes gradually turning red with greed. The Creation Jade Disc? No wonder even Confucius was eager for it!


    "Damn it, who shouted that?" another voice called out.


    The person who had shouted earlier was nowhere to be found, but this second voice was clearly visible��a disciple of the Confucian Sect. This second voice only served to confirm the first.


    The Creation Jade Disc?


    The greatest treasure in the world?


    "Everyone, charge!" a demon king roared.


    "Disciples of the Myriad Swords Sect, attack the formation with everything you have!"


    "Disciples of the Five Viges Temple, charge!"


    "Don''t let that bastard Zilu get it first!"


    In truth, Zilu hadn''t evene on this expedition, but the crowd didn''t care. Both Ran Deng and Maitreya turned red with excitement, each summoning their treasures as they too rushed into the fray. The scene grew even more chaotic than before as the true powerhouses finally joined the struggle.


    The Creation Jade Disc��whoever possessed it could be the next Hongjun!


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan and his group had already left the scene.


    With the chaos intensifying behind them, they made their way far from the frenzied battle, knowing that they had sessfully diverted the attention of the entire crowd away from themselves and onto the ultimate treasure hidden within Biyou Pce.


    "Poison!" A thunderous roar echoed, and Zhong Shan turned his head to see a towering column of ck smoke rising in the distance. The air was filled with the mor of battle.


    "The Immortal Execution Sword Formation has finally been broken!" Mr. Corpse sighed.


    "The zombie that entered the Biyou Pce earlier, along with the one that was calling out within the Immortal Execution Sword Formation just now��deal with them using fire. Leave no trace behind!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Understood!" Mr. Corpse nodded in agreement. The four of them shot towards the south like arrows.


    Meanwhile, at the Sacred Corpse Mountain, chaos had erupted. With the formation broken, the way to Biyou Pcey open.


    The Biyou Pce had no further restrictions, and soon people caught sight of the Creation Jade Scrolls inside.


    Upon seeing the Creation Jade Scrolls, tempers red, and faces turned red with envy. What followed was an all-out brawl. Immortals are often said to be detached from worldly desires, but that''s because such desires are usually too easily satisfied to pique their interest. However, the Creation Jade Scrolls were different��a treasure so coveted that even saints would yearn for it. How could these immortals remain indifferent? A fierce melee broke out! This battle at Sacred Corpse Mountain would surely be known throughout the world!


    Above, the white and green stars in the sky shed more and more intensely, clearly reflecting Sa''s realization that the Biyou Pce formation had been breached.


    Half a monthter, Zhong Shan and hispanions arrived at the so-called Yellow Springs Road at their fastest speed. Pidu! Pidu was located in and of Yin Sha, under the jurisdiction of Haotian, but generally, no immortals wished toe here��the power of Yin Sha was too overwhelming, capable of corrupting their spiritual energy. Ghost cultivators, of course, were the exception.


    Though Pidu was a ce few desired to visit, it was widely known because every month, at midnight on the full moon, the Ghost Gate would open! At that time, one could walk on the Yellow Springs Road and enter the Netherworld.


    As a result, many powerful beings who wished to traverse the realms of Yin and Yang would gather here to await the opening of the Ghost Gate. Wherever there were people, there wasmerce, and so various merchants gathered here as well, selling goods from both the Yin and Yang realms.


    Despite the heavy Yin energy, arge crowd still gathered. Even though Zhong Shan and his party entered with a coffin in tow, they did not attract much attention. They found an inn and patiently awaited the opening of the Ghost Gate at midnight. Luo Xingchen and Nangong Sheng went out to scout the area, while Zhong Shan and Mr. Corpse stayed behind at the inn.


    "Mr. Corpse, what exactly is this coffin for?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Zhong Shan pondered that if the coffin''s use was not significant, it might be better to feed it to the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail. Perhaps his own cultivation could benefit, and he couldpensate Mr. Corpse moreter.


    Mr. Corpse nced at Zhong Shan and then reached into the coffin to pull out a heart��still beating and dripping with blood, a sight both eerie and unsettling.


    "Does the Holy King still remember this?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "Yes, you''ve used it before in rituals, to set up formations, and even as a weapon to fend off enemies. Even the ck Jade Talisman I gave Nangong Sheng couldn''t withstand this heart in your hands!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "It seems to be the heart of a Saint," Mr. Corpse said solemnly.


    "What?" Zhong Shan eximed in surprise.


    "This heart has a long and ancient history, though the details are unclear. It could be a Saint''s heart, or perhaps an Ancestor Immortal''s heart, but thetter is unlikely to have been preserved so well over time. So, I suspect it''s the heart of a Saint," Mr. Corpse exined.


    Zhong Shan regarded the heart with great seriousness.


    "This coffin can absorb resentment. I n to ce this heart inside, letting it absorb an immense amount of resentment to rebuild a body for the heart," Mr. Corpse said, his voice tinged with excitement.


    Zhong Shan nodded deeply. Rebuilding a Saint? Not just Mr. Corpse, but Zhong Shan himself felt a surge of excitement at the thought.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 992: Hao Meili鈥檚 Excitement

    <h4>Chapter 992: Hao Meili''s Excitement</h4>


    Across the Four Great Continents, in the Grand Hong Sacred Court, lies Haotian''s Heavenly Court. The skies radiate with colorful rays of light, auspicious clouds stretch endlessly, cranes soar gracefully, and divine beasts roam��truly a sacred realm of immortals.


    Within the court stands the most revered pce of the Four Great Continents, the Lingxiao Hall, apanied by rare and legendary sites such as the Jade Pool and the Peach Orchard.


    Near the Jade Pool are the pces where the Heavenly Court''s esteemed women reside, including the Queen Mother and various princesses. In one corner lies a massive white pce. The pce gleams with purity, and above it, arge que prominently disys the name "Eighth Princess''s Residence."


    The Eighth Princess of the Heavenly Court is a princess brought back by the Jade Emperor several hundred years ago.


    This princess, Hao Meili, is highly favored by the Jade Emperor. She has unrestricted ess to all the court''s ancient texts, and the gue God has continually taught her powerful abilities. Hao Meili''s favor with the Jade Emperor has made other princesses envious��jealous of this mysterious neer.


    On this day, within the Eighth Princess''s Residence, Hao Meili was happily ying with a small golden dragon. Her joy, however, was abruptly interrupted by the arrival of a man.


    A strikingly handsome man, d in white armor, exuding an extraordinary aura��his mere presence could undoubtedly captivate countless celestial maidens. The man had a thin seam on his forehead, resembling a third eye, giving him a strangely enchanting appearance.


    "Hao Meili, after all, I''m your cousin! You shouldn''t always treat me like this!" the man said, addressing Hao Meili.


    "Cousin? Eng Shen, let me tell you, this is my pce! If you trespass again, don''t me me for not being polite!" Hao Meili red at him.


    "Who''s on guard? Get over here!" Hao Meili huffed angrily.


    Soon, two celestial soldiers entered.


    "Eighth Princess!" they greeted her with a bow.


    "Didn''t I instruct you earlier? No one is allowed in except for the old man. You call this guarding the door?" Hao Meili scolded.


    "Eighth Princess, it''s Eng Shen, we...!" the soldiers stammered, feeling conflicted.


    "Are you guarding the door for me or for him? Hmph! You''re both negligent. No need to report to the Ministry of Justice��I''ll punish you right now. I curse you to break out in poisonous boils, and may your cultivation not advance for a hundred years!" Hao Meili snapped.


    "We acknowledge our mistake! Please, Princess, take back your curse!" The two soldiers hastily knelt in fear.


    Even in that brief moment, the soldiers'' bodies began to break out in boils. The curse had taken effect!


    They clearly remembered how the Eighth Princess''s poisonous tongue had be a nightmare for many. Even the curses of the gue God paled inparison to hers. A hundred years without progress in cultivation? Covered in poisonous boils?


    Regret filled their hearts, but Eng Shen was their superior��they couldn''t defy him.


    "Get out! The Princess''s Residence doesn''t need you to guard it!" Hao Meili snapped in frustration.


    "Eighth Princess, we truly understand our mistake! Please forgive us...!" the soldiers pleaded anxiously.


    "Hmph! Zhong Shan once said, everyone must bear the consequences of their actions. I''ve been lenient with you two, but if you don''t leave now, don''t me me for being merciless!" Hao Meili huffed.


    "Yes, yes!" The two soldiers, terrified, quickly retreated.


    As they left, they cast resentful nces at Eng Shen.


    Eng Shen''s face darkened��Hao Meili had just humiliated him, and all because of that phrase, "Zhong Shan said." Zhong Shan again?


    "Enough, Eng Shen, you can leave now! You''re not wee here!" Hao Meili said coldly.


    "Hao Meili, what have I done to upset you? Please don''t keep targeting your cousin like this," Eng Shen said with a wry smile.


    "Little girl, I''m back! And this time, I''ve brought some big news!" A voice suddenly called out excitedly from outside the Princess''s Residence.


    An elderly man in a mboyant robe burst in, looking extraordinarily strange, yet his face was filled with excitement. It was none other than Hao Meili''s master, the Western Poison Emperor, who had been revived after arriving in the Heavenly Court.


    Hao Meili, who had been scowling at Eng Shen, immediately softened her expression upon hearing the Western Poison Emperor''s voice.


    As soon as the Western Poison Emperor entered, he noticed Eng Shen.


    "Oh, Eng Shen is here too!" The Western Poison Emperor greeted him with mild courtesy.


    "Yes, has the Western Poison Emperor just returned from the outside world? What''s the big news?" Eng Shen forced a smile as he addressed him.


    The Western Poison Emperor was an old man who hadn''t even reached the level of an immortal. Normally, Eng Shen wouldn''t bother with him, but since the Western Poison Emperor was Hao Meili''s master, he had to be polite.


    Ever since discovering Hao Meili''s extraordinary constitution, Eng Shen had been trying to win her favor, hoping to secure her support to truly ascend the path of power.


    However, despite Hao Meili''s long stay in the Heavenly Court, she had only ever shown a kind face to the Western Poison Emperor, ignoring everyone else. Even the Jade Emperor and the gue God hadn''t received much warmth from her, which constantly frustrated Eng Shen.


    "Yes, what news has got you so excited?" Hao Meili quickly inquired.


    The Western Poison Emperor nced at Eng Shen, then decided it didn''t matter since it wasn''t a secret.


    "I just got word��do you know who''s arrived in the Four Great Continents?" The Western Poison Emperor asked, barely containing his excitement.


    "Who''s here? Lots of peoplee to the Four Great Continents. Don''t tell me it''s Zhong Shan!" Hao Meili said with a curious expression.


    "It is Zhong Shan!" The Western Poison Emperor replied, his excitement barely contained.


    "What?" Hao Meili''s mouth dropped in disbelief, followed by a look of pure joy. "Old man, you''re not lying to me, are you?"


    Off to the side, Eng Shen''s face darkened. Zhong Shan, Zhong Shan again?


    "Why would I lie to you? Word has already spread among the heavenly soldiers and generals returning from Sacred Corpse Mountain. One of Zhong Shan''s subordinates there thoroughly defeated Sun Shen. If Patriarch Bodhi hadn''t arrived in time, Sun Shen would have been killed on the spot!" The Western Poison Emperor affirmed.


    Killed Sun Shen? Eng Shen''s pupils contracted. He knew how powerful Sun Shen was, and yet someone nearly killed him?


    "I knew Zhong Shan woulde looking for me! He''s here, that''s wonderful!" Hao Meili eximed in delight, her tone carrying a hint of happiness.


    "Old man, let''s go find Zhong Shan!" Hao Meili said, clearly in high spirits.


    "But weren''t you forbidden from leaving the Heavenly Court?" The Western Poison Emperor reminded her.


    "That damned Jade Emperor, why won''t he let me leave? So annoying!" Hao Meili grumbled with displeasure.


    Eng Shen''s face twitched. "Damned Jade Emperor"? In the Heavenly Court, only Hao Meili would dare to say such a thing.


    "The Jade Emperor is only concerned for your safety. You''re not strong enough yet; it''s dangerous out there. Besides, we don''t know where Zhong Shan is��how would we find him? Since he''se, he''ll eventually make his way to the Heavenly Court," the Western Poison Emperor advised.


    "Alright, fine, we''ll wait then."


    In the Heavenly Court, only the Western Poison Emperor''s words could sway Hao Meili.


    "Eng Shen, you can leave now," Hao Meili said, ring at him with displeasure.


    Alright, I''ll leave. Eng Shen bid a quick farewell to the Western Poison Emperor and stepped out of the Princess''s Residence.


    As he left, his face was clouded with darkness, and he muttered coldly to himself, "Zhong Shan?"


    <i>Fengdu!</i>


    While conversing with Mr. Corpse, Nangong Sheng and Luo Xingchen also returned.


    "Holy King, we''ve gathered the information. Beyond the Yellow Springs Road lies the ''Wailing Hell,'' which houses the Yama Hall of the Ten Kings!" Nangong Sheng reported.


    "Hmm!" Zhong Shan nodded, signaling him to continue.


    "The main hall is the Yama Hall, but they''ve also constructed replicas of the other nine halls, including the ''Replica of the Wheel-Turning Hall.'' It''s as if all ten halls are gathered together, but the one in charge is still Yama, the King of the Yama Hall," Nangong Sheng exined.


    "Hmm."


    "Beyond the Yellow Springs Road lies the Wailing Hell, which contains sixteen smaller Hells of Heart-Piercing Punishment, making up the Seventeen Levels of Hell. The eighteenth level is the Blood Pool of Malevolent Ghosts that Mr. Corpse mentioned. It''s said to be guarded by K?itigarbha, where only the most heinous and malevolent spirits are allowed to enter," Nangong Sheng continued.


    "K?itigarbha?" Zhong Shan frowned slightly.


    "''Until hell is empty, I vow not to be a Buddha.'' K?itigarbha is the strongest among the four great Bodhisattvas of the Great Thunderp Temple in the Western Paradise. He remains in the Blood Pool of Malevolent Ghosts year-round, converting countless evil spirits. Even during the teachings at the Great Thunderp Temple, K?itigarbha never attended, as if he only held a nominal position there. However, his power is rumored to be unfathomable, with some saying he possesses the strength of an Ancestor Immortal," Nangong Sheng borated.


    "Then, if we wish to enter the Blood Pool of Malevolent Ghosts, do we need K?itigarbha''s permission?" Zhong Shan pondered.


    "Holy King, do not worry��I can persuade K?itigarbha," Mr. Corpse suddenly interjected.


    "Oh?" The group looked at Mr. Corpse in surprise.


    "If he truly belongs to the lineage of K?itigarbha, while I may notmand him, it wouldn''t be difficult to gain his cooperation," Mr. Corpse assured.


    "Hmm." Zhong Shan nodded in approval.


    Luo Xingchen and Nangong Sheng exchanged a deep look at Mr. Corpse.


    Mr. Corpse''s origins were too mysterious. Even in the vast world, none of them had ever heard of his lineage. Yet now, he revealed a connection to K?itigarbha?


    K?itigarbha''s origins were also shrouded in mystery. What kind of connection could they possibly share?


    However, the group wisely refrained from pressing further. Mr. Corpse was so secretive about his lineage that he wouldn''t even disclose his real name. Asking too much would only strain their rtionship.


    "By the way, Holy King, I''ve also uncovered some news," Luo Xingchen suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh?"


    "King Yama is about to get married. Ghost Immortals from all directions are gathering to congratte him," Luo Xingchen reported.


    "King Yama''s wedding?" Zhong Shan''s face twisted into a peculiar smile as he set down the teacup he had just finished drinking from.


    "Yes, it''s said that King Yama fell in love with the woman at first sight. Her name seems to be... Nian Youyou!" Luo Xingchen recalled.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan''s teacup shattered the tea table beneath it.


    The three of them turned to look at Luo Xingchen, who was utterly bewildered. What had just happened?


    "Are you sure her name is Nian Youyou?" Zhong Shan asked, his brow furrowing.


    "Yes, I''m certain!" Luo Xingchen confirmed.


    Nangong Sheng and Mr. Corpse nced at Zhong Shan.


    "Holy King, perhaps it''s just a coincidence," Mr. Corpse suggested.


    "Hmm, it seems our timing couldn''t be better! In three days, the Ghost Gate will open. We will descend to the Yellow Springs and enter the underworld!" Zhong Shan dered solemnly.


    "Yes, sir!"


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 993 - 994: A True or False Wedding Interruption

    <h4>Chapter 993: Chapter 994: A True or False Wedding Interruption</h4>


    Yama City. Yama Hall!


    In the Yama Hall, arge chair dominated the center, and on it sat a man with an extremely darkplexion, his appearance somewhat stern. The man looked to be around fifty years old in human terms, with a full beard, not particrly pleasing to the eye.


    Only one person could sit on that chair in the underworld��King Yama!


    In front of King Yama stood five or six subordinates, all bowing low in servitude.


    "King Yama, tomorrow is your wedding day, so why do you look so troubled?" one of the subordinates asked.


    "I''m thinking about Nian Youyou," King Yama replied with a frown.


    "King Yama, with your status, you could have any woman you desire. Why are you suddenly so focused on Nian Youyou? She''s beautiful, yes, but there are plenty of beauties in the underworld. Why insist on making her your queen?" the subordinate asked, perplexed.


    "You don''t understand. It''s not just her appearance��it''s her bloodline. That individual happens to be her ancestor... Damn it, do I need to exin myself to you?" King Yama red at him.


    "Yes, yes, I deserve to be punished. But there''s no need for concern, King Yama. Nian Youyou has already agreed to the marriage!" the subordinate quickly reassured him.


    "That''s not enough. I don''t just want her body; I want her heart as well! I can tell that she''s only marrying me because of her two brothers!" King Yama shook his head.


    "Oh?" one of the subordinates'' eyes twitched with an idea.


    "King Yama, I might have a suggestion!" the man suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh? Judge Lu, you have a solution?" King Yama''s eyes lit up with interest.


    "Think about it, King Yama. We''ve judged so many female ghosts��what kind of men did they love most when they were alive?" Judge Lu smiled.


    "Go on."


    "Yes! Women love heroes, especially those who save them in times of danger. King Yama, what if you became a hero?" Judge Lu suggested with a grin.


    "Oh? How would I do that?" King Yama was intrigued.


    "We could stage a wedding interruption, where someonees to steal the bride. At that critical moment, you, King Yama, would step forward, disy your divine power, and defeat all the intruders! This would greatly enhance your image in Nian Youyou''s eyes," Judge Lu exined.


    "Hmm, not a bad idea!" King Yama immediately showed a hint of satisfaction.


    "And I''ll make sure to arrange for extremely ugly individuals to contrast with your brilliance, King Yama!" Judge Lu added, eager to please.


    "Good, good, good! Hahahaha..."��


    Later that evening, in a side hall near Yama Hall.


    Nian Ben and the Crown Prince had just seen Judge Lu off.


    "Big Brother, what''s going on?" Nian Ben asked, surprised, looking at the Crown Prince.


    The Crown Prince thought for a moment and said, "King Yama mentioned that he has special arrangements for tomorrow. He said there will be a unique event and instructed us not to intervene, no matter what happens��he''ll handle everything himself. This is indeed strange."


    "Why wouldn''t he want us to intervene?" Nian Ben frowned.


    "If he doesn''t want us to interfere, it means that whatever happens tomorrow is a setup, something nned by King Yama himself, and he''s confident he can handle it," the Crown Prince spected.


    "What could he be nning?"


    "We''ll just have to wait and see. Since King Yama took the trouble to inform us, it''s bound to be surprising. But whatever happens, we mustn''t interfere," the Crown Prince said firmly.


    "Hmm, I''m curious to see what tricks that old ck ghost has up his sleeve."��


    <strong>Yama City, in thergest inn.</strong>


    Zhong Shan and his group rented arge courtyard to store the giant purple coffin; after all, they couldn''t take the coffin with them during the wedding interruption.


    Just after securing the purple coffin, Zhong Shan vaguely overheard a conversationing from the neighboring room.


    "Old Zhao, how did someone as ugly as you get recruited by King Yama?"


    "Brother, don''t mock me. This time, I''ve caught King Yama''s eye��Old Zhao is about to strike it rich!"


    "What''s the good news?"


    "Nothing much, just helping King Yama win over his new queen!"


    ...


    As the conversation continued next door, Zhong Shan''s eyes lit up.


    "Luo Xingchen, capture everyone in the neighboring room and bring them here for questioning!" Zhong Shanmanded in a low voice.


    "Yes, sir!"��


    The next day, King Yama''s wedding officially began.


    Yama City was even more bustling and lively than the previous day.


    The area around Yama Hall was more open than ever, allowing countless ghost cultivators and powerful beings toe and go, offering their congrattions.


    However, most of the powerful beings didn''t approach directly; they stayed on the za outside Yama Hall, creating a distant mor.


    Numerous ghost guards were stationed around, maintaining order.


    Nian Youyou had not yet appeared, while King Yama stood on the za, weing guests from all directions.


    "Maitreya Buddha? Your esteemed presence is a great honor, I''m sorry I couldn''t greet you sooner. Please, pleasee in...!"


    "Burning Lamp Buddha? The fact that you''vee from the Great Thunderp Temple graces Yama Hall with unparalleled glory. Please, please enter...!"


    "Third Prince Nezha? The Heavenly Court sending the Third Prince is a gesture I deeply appreciate. Please, please take a seat...!"


    "Bull Demon King? Wee, pleasee in!"


    ...


    From the world of the living��Three Mountains and Five Peaks, the Heavenly Court, and the Great Thunderp Temple��everyone had received invitations from King Yama. Regardless of their feelings toward him, the existence of Yama Hall was not to be underestimated, so all these powers had sent emissaries.


    From the Great Thunderp Temple, Burning Lamp and Maitreya Buddha hade, having just arrived from their business at Sacred Corpse Mountain.


    As for Nezha, he was still brooding over the events in the Wind Tomb Domain. Seeing his son''s gloomy mood, Li Jing, the Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King, had sent him here to rx.


    Of course, other forces had also sent their representatives.


    King Yama''s wedding was no ordinary event. The za in front of Yama Hall was filled with luxurious seats, reserved for these distinguished guests to witness the wedding.


    King Yama had taken great care in nning this wedding, inviting many powerful figures.


    As one prestigious guest after another took their seats, King Yama grew increasingly confident. The onlookers in the distance were also bing more and more astonished.


    So many powerful figures? So many factions? It was clear that King Yama wasn''t joking around.


    Yama Hall would soon have a new mistress.


    Inside Yama Hall, Nian Youyou was dressed in a red wedding gown.


    "Big Brother, Third Brother, can this really go on? Look at this��how am I supposed to escape?" Nian Youyou grumbled.


    "We''vee this far, Little Sister. You have to see it through. Once you get the item, we''ll leave immediately!" Nian Ben urged.


    "Leave? Can we really leave? I know you two are Ancient Immortals, but so are Maitreya Buddha and Burning Lamp Buddha. Can you really get me out of here? I don''t believe it!" Nian Youyou retorted coldly.


    "Little Sister, this isn''t the time for doubts. This wedding is happening, whether you like it or not," the Crown Prince stated firmly.


    As he spoke, the Crown Prince reached out and tapped a point on Nian Youyou''s back.


    "You!" Nian Youyou eximed angrily.


    "Don''t worry, I''ve only sealed your cultivation to prevent you from causing any trouble. Once the wedding is over and we have the item, we''ll definitely take you away!" the Crown Prince assured her.


    "Get out! Get out of here!" Nian Youyou shouted furiously.


    The two brothers immediately retreated, leaving Nian Youyou alone in the hall, her expression cold and filled with resentment.


    "Hmph!" Nian Youyou snorted coldly, her eyes shing with a glint of icy determination.


    Meanwhile, the Crown Prince and Nian Ben stepped out of the hall where Nian Youyou was being held.


    "Big Brother, isn''t this getting out of hand?" Nian Ben asked, concerned.


    "You don''t understand the importance of the Book of Life and Death. Sacrificing Nian Youyou for it is worth it," the Crown Prince replied sternly.


    "Hmm!" Nian Ben nodded in agreement.


    "Let''s go outside and wait for Nian Youyou, and also see what tricks King Yama has up his sleeve!"


    "Hmm!"��


    King Yama greeted the powerful guests from various realms, who had all taken their seats. Feeling satisfied, King Yama turned to look at Judge Lu.


    Judge Lu gave King Yama a reassuring nod.


    Seeing this, King Yama feltpletely at ease. He was slightly excited��this wasn''t just about establishing himself as a hero in front of Nian Youyou, but also in front of the entire world. He was eagerly waiting for the bride-snatching to begin. Come on, bring it on! King Yama could hardly wait!


    "The auspicious time has arrived~~~~~~~~~!"


    The master of ceremonies announced loudly, and the gathered crowd immediately fell silent, while the drums and trumpets red energetically from all directions.


    "Bring out the bride!" the master of ceremonies called.


    An elderly woman in red, holding a red ribbon, slowly led out Nian Youyou, who was dressed in a red wedding robe.


    Nian Youyou, already stunningly beautiful, looked even more radiant after being adorned for the asion. Wearing a bejeweled phoenix crown, she captivated countless men with her appearance.


    "No wonder King Yama is infatuated with her��she''s incredibly beautiful!"


    "Yeah, if I could marry a woman like that, it''d be worth dying for!"


    "Aren''t you already dead since you''re a ghost?"


    ...


    Voices of admiration echoed from all directions, filling King Yama with immense satisfaction.


    "Lord Yama, I, Granny Meng, have brought you the bride. Hold on to her tightly!" The elderly woman in red handed the other end of the red ribbon to King Yama.


    "Hmm!" King Yama nodded.


    "Quickly now, prepare to bow to Heaven and Earth!" Granny Meng said with a smile as she stepped back.


    "Congrattions, Lord Yama!"


    "Congrattions, Lord Yama!"


    Cheers of congrattion resounded from all sides, and King Yama responded with a beaming smile.


    However, beside him, Nian Youyou''s mood was extremely gloomy. In that moment, she felt utterly helpless, devoid of the joy others imagined she might feel, instead filled with deep sorrow. A tall figure in a ck robe kept surfacing in her mind. If only he could appear now, how wonderful that would be.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 994 - 995: My Name is Zhong Shan

    <h4>Chapter 994: Chapter 995: My Name is Zhong Shan</h4>


    As Nian Youyou nced at the countless ghost cultivators offering their congrattions, the various powerful factions gathered in Yama Hall''s za, and finally, at her two "big brothers," a cold glint shed in her eyes.


    King Yama looked over at Judge Lu. Judge Lu gave King Yama another reassuring nod.


    King Yama straightened his chest and addressed the countless ghost cultivators who hade to celebrate.


    "People of the Underworld, today is my wedding day. I thank you all foring to offer your congrattions! Now, in front of everyone, we shall bow to Heaven and Earth to solemnize this union!" King Yama announced loudly.


    "Congrattions to King Yama!"


    "Best wishes to King Yama!"


    ...


    Voices of congrattions echoed chaotically from all directions, and the wedding was reaching a fever pitch, about to culminate.


    "I object to this marriage!"


    Suddenly, a discordant shout rang out from the crowd.


    The force of this voice was so strong that it abruptly silenced nearly all the congrattory remarks.


    Who would dare to be so bold? In the underworld, during King Yama''s wedding, someone actually dared to object? Were they courting death?


    Every ghost cultivator''s face was filled with extreme shock.


    Even Burning Lamp, Maitreya Buddha, Bull Demon King, and Nezha showed expressions of surprise as they all turned to look toward the source of the shout.


    Nian Ben and the Crown Prince exchanged nces.


    "It''s happening?" Nian Ben asked curiously.


    Indeed, this was the event that Judge Lu had specifically warned them about the night before. It was really happening? What was King Yama up to? Why was he pulling this stunt now?


    After the shout, the surrounding ghost cultivators quickly stepped back, revealing the figure of a toad demon dressed in yellow robes. Why was it a toad demon? Because the demon''s head hadn''t fully transformed into a human shape��it was still an ugly, warty toad head.


    "King Yama, since today is your big day, I''ll help you deal with this!" Bull Demon King suddenly shouted.


    "No need!" King Yama quickly called out.


    After all, he had been waiting for this "disturbance" for so long, for this "heroic" moment to impress Nian Youyou��how could he let someone else steal the opportunity?


    Bull Demon King raised an eyebrow, then nodded and sat back down, watching King Yama with great curiosity.


    King Yama maintained a calm demeanor as he called out to the distant toad demon, "Who are you, daring to disrupt my wedding?"


    "My name is Zhao Da Toad, and I disapprove of your marriage, King Yama," the toad demon shouted back.


    "Oh? And why is that?" Contrary to his usual demeanor, King Yama actually allowed the defiant demon to speak.


    "We all saw Nian Youyou when she arrived in Yama City. Just because you''re King Yama, does that mean you can monopolize her? We don''t agree. Such an extremely beautiful immortal��I want her too! I protest, King Yama! I''m the most handsome toad in the Toad n, and I''m fully capable of taking care of Nian Youyou. I want to take her away!" Zhao Da Toad shouted.


    "I want to take Nian Youyou away?" Nearly every cultivator present darkened at this ridiculous disy. This guy was way too confident! Handsome?


    The Bull Demon King''s eyes bulged, Burning Lamp and Maitreya Buddha exchanged strange looks, and Nezha, after years of frustration, finally let out augh.


    Nian Ben and the Crown Prince looked at each other, unsure of what to say.


    Meanwhile, Judge Lu had a satisfied smile��Zhao Da Toad was ying his role perfectly.


    Nian Youyou observed coldly from the side. How could she not see through King Yama''s intentions? During her time here, she had learned King Yama''s character well��cowardly, timid, vain, and petty. How could he be this calm?


    But at this moment, King Yama was indeed calm.


    "So, you''re here to disrupt my wedding?" King Yama asked in a deep voice.


    "That''s right! I can''t stand the thought of such a beauty being ruined by you. I''m here to give her the happiness she deserves!" the toad demon shouted again, clearly full of himself.


    "Ugh!"


    A minor demon with a weak stomach in the distance had already started to vomit.


    The scene grew increasingly awkward.


    "I, King Yama, rule with virtue and reason. I won''t me you for trying to disrupt my wedding, but spouting big words without the ability to back them up is asking for death. Come on, I''ll give you a chance. Let''s see how strong you really are!" King Yama took a step forward, speaking with exaggerated magnanimity.


    "Bring it on!" the toad demon shouted as he marched forward.


    The show was about to begin, and the surrounding cultivators parted to create a path, eager to witness this bizarre spectacle.


    "A mere toad demon trying to ruin this wedding? You''re courting death!" another guest shouted, unable to tolerate the absurdity any longer.


    King Yama panicked. He couldn''t let anyone else intervene. "Ladies and gentlemen, today''s events are a private matter of the underworld. I''ve promised to give the challenger a fair chance, so please, don''t interfere. A true person of honor should win with virtue!"


    "..."


    What could the guests say to that? Well, since you want to handle it yourself, we won''t interfere.


    By this time, the toad demon had arrived in front of King Yama, holding a pair of hammers. He looked at King Yama and said, "Here Ie��watch closely!"


    The toad demon was actually afraid that King Yama might underestimate him and get hurt. If that happened, it would be terribly unfortunate for him.


    "Whoosh!"


    One of the hammers came crashing down, generating a powerful gust of wind.


    "Boom!"


    King Yama caught the hammer with one hand, stepping forward with a powerful stance, and with his other fist, he punched the toad demon squarely in the stomach.


    "Bang~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The toad demon was sent flying, leaving a trail of blood in the air as King Yama''s mighty fist drove him upward.


    Defeated in a single blow!


    "King Yama is so powerful!"


    "King Yama''s Invincible Divine Fist is incredible!"


    "Well done!"


    ...


    Cheers erupted from the crowd below.


    The toad demon crashed to the ground, clutching his chest as if he were seriously injured.


    "King Yama''s divine power is unmatched. Zhao Da Toad admits defeat. I suppose I was mistaken��only King Yama is worthy of possessing a beauty like Nian Youyou," the toad demon said, feigning remorse.


    Burning Lamp and Maitreya Buddha exchanged nces, as did Nian Ben and the Crown Prince. Everyone shared a sense of absurdity at the scene.


    "Who else dares?" King Yama called out, brimming with confidence.


    "And me��White Bone!" someone shouted.


    It was a skeleton, an exceptionally eerie one at that, which began striding forward.


    "Very well, today I''ll conquer all with virtue!" King Yama was already intoxicated with the thrill of his earlier punch.


    What followed was King Yama''s disy of overwhelming might, quickly defeating four challengers who hade to disrupt the wedding.


    Behind the bejeweled phoenix crown and veil, a look of contempt shed in Nian Youyou''s eyes.


    Among the various powerful factions present, some were thoroughly entertained, while those who saw through the charade couldn''t help but twitch with suppressedughter. They had long heard that King Yama was merely a puppet of the Heavenly Court, with little real power, but this was beyond ridiculous.


    Nian Ben and the Crown Prince exchanged nces, beginning to realize that they might have overestimated King Yama.


    King Yama, still riding the high of defeating the four "powerful" challengers, shouted triumphantly, "Who else dares?"


    In that moment, King Yama felt as though he was invincible, standing at the pinnacle of the world, undefeated and unmatched.


    But the crowd fell silent; no one else stepped forward.


    Nian Youyou, after her initial disdain, felt a wave of disappointment. What a group of worthless fools. If Zhong Shan were here, he could knock all of them down with a single palm strike!


    Unaware, Nian Youyou''s thoughts began to drift, and she found herself thinking of that man she could never forget.


    "Is there no one else? No one dares?" King Yama called out again.


    The crowd remained quiet, and just as King Yama was preparing to im Nian Youyou''s heart, a powerful voice echoed through the hall.


    "I do!"


    The voice reverberated across the entire za, drawing everyone''s attention in its direction.


    Upon hearing this voice, the pupils of Bull Demon King, Nezha, Burning Lamp, Maitreya Buddha, and even Nian Ben shrank in shock.


    That voice? Why does it sound so familiar?


    As for Nian Youyou, her wandering thoughts snapped back to reality.


    Following the direction where the crowd was parting, she looked toward the source of the voice.


    In the distance, at the back of the crowd, stood four figures. Leading them was a man in a ck robe, exuding an air of absolute authority. His presence was overwhelming, with an aura of nobility that made one''s heart tremble, while the three others appeared to be his subordinates.


    It was Zhong Shan. That powerful shout just now hade from him.


    "Whoosh!" "Whoosh!" "Whoosh!" "Whoosh!" ...


    The moment they saw Zhong Shan, Burning Lamp, Maitreya Buddha, Nian Ben, the Crown Prince, Bull Demon King, and Nezha all stood up from their seats.


    "Everyone, no need to worry. I''m here! Just watch��don''t interfere. I''ve got this!" King Yama quickly reassured the group behind him.


    "Don''t interfere? I''m here?"


    Bull Demon King, Nezha, Burning Lamp, and Maitreya Buddha exchangedplex nces toward King Yama.


    King Yama, still basking in his recent victory over the four "challengers," felt thoroughly confident and enjoyed the moment.


    Nian Ben and the Crown Prince had already widened their eyes in disbelief. Nian Ben wanted to say something, but the Crown Prince stopped him.


    "Big Brother, what...?"


    "What do you want to say?"


    "..."


    "Let''s wait and see."


    "Yes!"


    Judge Lu, on the other hand, was filled with confusion. This person wasn''t someone he had arranged. Should he rush up and inform King Yama? But King Yama had just confidently told everyone not to interfere, saying he had it under control! If he interrupted now, wouldn''t that be like pping King Yama in the face in front of everyone? Would he have to expose the scandal about hiring fake challengers to disrupt the wedding?


    When Nian Youyou saw Zhong Shan, her eyes immediately filled with joy. It was him��he had reallye!


    For a moment, Nian Youyou felt a wave of emotion, a tightness in her chest. But that joy was quickly reced by a surge of fear. Had she betrayed Zhong Shan again with her actions?


    Her mixed emotions made her expression incrediblyplex.


    King Yama, having ordered everyone to stand down, turned his attention back to Zhong Shan.


    The moment he saw Zhong Shan, a sh of jealousy flickered in King Yama''s heart. Although Zhong Shan didn''t have the most handsome face, he exuded a deep, steady charisma��a mature man''s charm fully expressed. He wasn''t very handsome, but he was undeniably manly!


    Compared to his own dark and aging appearance, King Yama couldn''t help but feel envious.


    What was Judge Lu thinking? Didn''t he say he would find some unsightly rabble? How did he find someone like this? Hmph, no matter��I''ll show him who''s in charge soon enough!


    "Who are you, daring to disrupt my wedding?" King Yama demanded.


    "My name is Zhong Shan!" Zhong Shan replied in a deep voice, taking step after step toward Nian Youyou.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 995 - 993: Yama City

    <h4>Chapter 995: Chapter 993: Yama City</h4>


    Three dayster, at midnight, in the vast central square of Fengdu!


    Countless powerful beings gathered there, as the Ghost Gate was about to open on the night of the full moon.


    A chilling wind blew from the center of the square, spreading in all directions. The air temperature plummeted, and a bone-chilling cold descended, instantly freezing the ground and causing delicate ice flowers to form��an atmosphere filled with eerie foreboding.


    A massive entrance, a hundred zhang high, appeared. The entrance was hemispherical, seemingly essible from any direction, as if it led to the underworld no matter where one entered from.


    As soon as the Ghost Gate opened, a swarm of powerful beings rushed in. Simultaneously, many powerful beings from the underworld surged out, creating chaos.


    Zhong Shan and his group, carrying a giant coffin, moved slowly toward the Ghost Gate amidst the crowd.


    Though the square was packed with people, for some inexplicable reason, no one seemed toe too close to Zhong Shan and his group, as if an invisible force kept the crowd at bay.


    As they reached the Ghost Gate, Zhong Shan nced at it briefly��it resembled the entrance to the Longevity Realm he had seen before.


    The four of them, gripping the coffin, stepped inside.


    As soon as they entered, the world around them transformed.


    The entire environment was suddenly filled with a yellowish liquid��this was the legendary Yellow Springs, filling every corner of the world. Before them stretched a long road leading downward, like a tunnel embedded within the Yellow Springs Sea. Numerous such tunnels spiraled downward into the depths.


    Though they all entered through the same Ghost Gate, many were now dispersed onto different tunnels.


    Zhong Shan and hispanions walked down one of these tunnels, marveling at the Yellow Springs surrounding them from all sides.


    "So this is the Yellow Springs Road?" Zhong Shan remarked, intrigued.


    "Each Yellow Springs Road is different; this is just how this one looks," Mr. Corpse exined.


    Nodding in understanding, the group continued downward, carrying the coffin.


    asionally, ghost cultivators ascended from the opposite direction. Upon seeing Zhong Shan and his group, they all disyed looks of astonishment.


    Who carries a coffin into the underworld?


    The Yellow Springs Road wasn''t very long. After walking for half an hour, they had traversed the Yellow Springs Sea.


    The road continued downward, transitioning from the Yellow Springs Sea to the eeriendscape of the underworld.


    It was a chilling and ominous ce, even darker than the Wheel-Turning Domain.


    Moreover, the air was filled with the sound of countless ghostly wails.


    The ground below seemed to be teeming with ghosts, crying and wailing as if the entire earth was inhabited by these tormented spirits. Some of these ghosts even attempted to fly up, but none could reach the Yellow Springs Road.


    Countless ghosts, some appearing intelligent, while others were mindless, just like the boundless hell surrounding the Yellow Springs Road in the small world.


    "So this is the Wailing Hell?" Nangong Sheng muttered, frowning.


    He now understood why it was called the Wailing Hell��this hell was vast, far exceeding the small world''s size. No, even an entire domain was filled with these ghosts.


    In the vast Wailing Hell, faint, dim red lights could be seen in some ces, emitting a terrifying and eerie atmosphere. These were the Sixteen Hells of Heart-Piercing Punishment!


    The Yellow Springs Road led to a sprawling cityplex.


    Even before they reached the city, the sounds of drums and gongs could be heard, creating an atmosphere of lively celebration.


    It seemed extremely bustling.


    The Yellow Springs Road Zhong Shan''s group traveled on led directly to the gate of a city.


    Above the city gate floated arge red character.


    <strong>Yama City!</strong>


    Outside Yama City, two rows of ghostly figures stood, ceaselessly beating drums and gongs, with red ribbons tied around their bodies. The scene was festive, yet the sight of skeletons and small ghosts ying jubnt music was undeniably eerie.


    "It looks like it hasn''t started yet. Let''s enter the city!" Zhong Shan ordered.


    "Yes, sir!"��


    Yama City was thergest city in the Wailing Hell, containing the ten halls of judgment, with the Yama Hall as the primary one.


    Tomorrow, Yama, the King of Hell, would wed, and the entire city was steeped in a heavy air of celebration.


    If Yama desired women, he could have as many as he wanted; he had taken countless concubines, yet never a true queen. But now, he was preparing to take a queen? And rumor had it that he had known this woman for less than a month.


    The people of Yama City were all specting: what kind of woman could enchant King Yama to such an extent?


    In a side hall of the Yama Hall, three people stood.


    Two men and one woman.


    The woman was none other than Nian Youyou, whom Zhong Shan knew. Of the two men, Zhong Shan would recognize one as well��Third Prince of the Wuxiang Holy Court, who had once been driven out of the Wheel-Turning Domain by Zhong Shan. The other man, a strikingly handsome figure in purple, exuded an air of cold dignity and nobility.


    "Big Brother, can we leave tomorrow?" Nian Ben asked.


    There was only one person whom Nian Ben would call Big Brother��the Crown Prince of the Wuxiang Holy Court.


    "That depends on Little Sister," the Crown Prince replied, turning to Nian Youyou.


    Nian Youyou''s mood was visibly low.


    "Big Brother, Third Brother, are you really going to sacrifice me?" Nian Youyou asked, looking at the two men.


    "How is it a sacrifice? As soon as you get the item, we''ll leave together. That old ghost Yama��he won''t be able to stop us," Nian Ben quickly reassured her.


    Nian Youyou ignored him and looked at the Crown Prince.


    "What do you think, Big Brother?" Nian Youyou asked directly.


    The Crown Prince frowned slightly. "Indeed, we''ll encounter some difficulties when we leave, but it''s not impossible. Father sent us here to obtain the ''Book of Life and Death,'' and we mustplete the task."


    "Complete the task? And you think it''s eptable to put me, a woman, in harm''s way?" Nian Youyou said, her face darkening with displeasure.


    "With great poweres great responsibility. If I had Little Sister''s abilities, I would definitely help ease Father''s burdens!" Nian Ben said, trying to persuade her.


    Nian Youyou rolled her eyes. It''s easy to talk when you''re not the one at risk.


    At that moment, the Crown Prince frowned and said, "Little Sister, you must keep your emotions in check. You know that the Holy King only cares about results, not the process. In this mission, you must obtain the Book of Life and Death. It''s of great importance to the Holy King!"


    "This isn''t just my responsibility!" Nian Youyou retorted, confident and unyielding.


    "You know how heavily guarded Yama City is right now. There''s no way you can escape on your own. We''vee too far for you to turn back now. If you get the Book of Life and Death, I guarantee I''ll get you out of here. But if you don''t, no one will be able to save you, and you''ll have no choice but to marry that old ck ghost!" the Crown Prince warned.


    "You... you bastards!" Nian Youyou was furious.


    Although her blood ties to them had weakened, they were still nominally siblings. She hadn''t expected them to turn against her so easily.


    "So, Little Sister, do your best to find the Book of Life and Death. As soon as you have it, we''ll leave immediately!" the Crown Prince said, his tone softening once more.


    "Hmph!" Nian Youyou snorted coldly and refused to acknowledge them further as she turned and walked out of the hall.


    Inside the hall, only the Crown Prince and Nian Ben remained.


    "Big Brother, what if we push Nian Youyou too far? What if something happens?" Nian Ben asked, slightly worried.


    "Don''t worry. Nian Youyou will do everything she can to get the Book of Life and Death," the Crown Prince assured him.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 996: The Sixth Divine Power, Love Awakens

    <h4>Chapter 996: The Sixth Divine Power, Love Awakens</h4>


    "My name is Zhong Shan!" Zhong Shan dered, his voice deep as he stepped closer and closer to Nian Youyou.


    Zhong Shan? Most of the ghost cultivators were puzzled. The news of Zhong Shan''s exploits at Sacred Corpse Mountain hadn''t yet spread due to the distance and the short time since the event. While Burning Lamp and the others were aware of the incident, there was no reason for them to share this with the unfamiliar ghost cultivators.


    Everyone assumed Zhong Shan was just another challenger like Zhao Da Toad and Bai Gu, someone who hade to disrupt the wedding. Many nodded in approval as they looked at Zhong Shan.


    Indeed, his appearance seemed fitting for someone attempting to steal the bride. Unlike that toad-headed fool who imed to be handsome and wanted to give Nian Youyou happiness.


    So, how many moves would it take for this new challenger to be defeated by King Yama?


    Judge Lu realized that Zhong Shan was serious about stealing the bride, but he could only hope that Zhong Shan was not powerful enough to be a match for King Yama��otherwise, things would turn disastrous for him.


    Nian Ben and the Crown Prince remained silent. On one hand, they were hesitant to expose Zhong Shan; on the other hand, the Crown Prince sensed something unusual between Nian Youyou and Zhong Shan, which had prompted him to keep an eye on the Daeng Empire in the past. Now, he was curious to see how things would unfold.


    Burning Lamp, Maitreya Buddha, Bull Demon King, and Nezha had initially nned to intervene, each with their own reasons. However, after King Yama insisted on handling it himself, they all decided to watch in silence.


    The atmosphere in the za outside Yama Hall grew increasingly tense.


    Another wedding disruptor had arrived!


    Nian Youyou''s emotions were a tangled mess, but she couldn''t take her eyes off Zhong Shan. Her heart was filled with excitement, fear, sweetness, and bitterness all at once.


    Zhong Shan''s imposing presence as a true man was stirring something within King Yama.


    When King Yama nced at Nian Youyou, he noticed that she was staring intently at Zhong Shan, which ignited a surge of anger within him. What was Judge Lu doing? How had he let this happen?


    This pretty boy arrives, and Nian Youyou''s soul is already captivated by him? Damn it, this man needs to be taught a lesson!


    "Zhong Shan? You''re brave, but if you think you can steal my queen, you''re far from qualified!" King Yama said, positioning himself between Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou, trying to block her view.


    But Nian Youyou instinctively shifted to the side, immediately regaining sight of Zhong Shan.


    Though it was a small movement, it didn''t go unnoticed by those who were observant. King Yama''s face flushed red��his darkplexion turning crimson in a way that looked particrly odd.


    Zhong Shan, however, paid no attention to King Yama and continued walking forward.


    Burning Lamp and the others had strange expressions��should they intervene or not?


    "King Yama, I think��" Bull Demon King began, intending to offer a warning.


    "No need for your advice, I''ll handle this myself!" King Yama interrupted him.


    Alright then, handle it yourself! Bull Demon King, who had intended to speak further, decided to remain silent.


    Zhong Shan had now reached the za. With a flick of his wrist, he produced an ice crystal!


    Within the ice crystal was a pitch-ck rose, though dark, it shimmered with an eerie, seductive allure.


    "Look at that, this guy knows what he''s doing. Unlike thest one who just charged in, this Zhong Shan even brought a flower!"mented one ghost cultivator from the distance.


    "Yeah! Look at Nian Youyou''s expression��she seems really taken with it!"


    "Could it be that this time the bride will actually be stolen?"


    ...


    The crowd buzzed with discussion, while King Yama''s expression grew increasingly sour.


    "Kid, if you''re here to steal my bride, then show me what you''ve got!" King Yama shouted, his anger barely contained.


    By this time, Zhong Shan had reached Nian Youyou. Ignoring King Yama, he simply looked at her.


    Nian Youyou''s expression wasplex, but she kept her gaze fixed on Zhong Shan. The scene was one of mutual affection, leaving the distant cultivators utterly stunned.


    Could it be true? Had Zhong Shan, without saying a word, already won over the bride of the day?


    "I''ve walked countless trillions of miles, enduring the long, monotonous journey. At first, I was lost, questioning the heavens, the earth, and my own heart, asking why I came here. Today, I finally understand��everything was destined. This journey wasn''t to celebrate a birthday, or to see the world, or anything else. It was simply to bring this rose in my hand to you. This is my two thousand nine hundred and ny-eighth rose. I''ve brought it to you, and now it''s yours," Zhong Shan said, his deep, maic voice resonating with steady conviction.


    Nian Youyou, already moved to tears, reached out and took the ice sculpture from Zhong Shan.


    By now, the entire surrounding area had fallen into absolute silence.


    Every ghost cultivator''s eyes were wide open��this was...?


    "He really is a master of romance, truly seductive!"


    "He''s got such charisma, it''s incredibly moving!"


    "Why haven''t you ever said such romantic things to me, you old ghost?"


    ...


    After the initial shock, the crowd erupted like boiling water, with discussions breaking out all around. Many gazed at Nian Youyou with a mixture of envy and bewilderment.


    Nian Ben and the Crown Prince''s faces darkened slightly. The situation had escted far too quickly. No one had expected Zhong Shan to step forward and deliver such a heartfelt deration in front of the entire underworld. Was this for real? Zhong Shan was being overly dramatic!


    Maitreya Buddha''s eyes widened, Burning Lamp uttered a Buddhist chant, Nezha''s face wasplicated, and Bull Demon King looked on with a strange expression.


    Judge Lu''s face turned ashen��he knew he was in big trouble now. No matter the oue, King Yama was sure to me him for this disastrous idea.


    Even Zhong Shan''s three subordinates watched intently.


    Mr. Corpse and Nangong Sheng remainedposed, but Luo Xingchen carefully absorbed every word Zhong Shan spoke, thinking to himself that if he could learn even a tenth of the Holy King''s skill, he would be content.


    Nian Youyou''s face was naturally full of sweetness as she held the rose within the ice sculpture, overwhelmed with emotion.


    While Nian Youyou was deeply moved, King Yama''s face had turnedpletely ck. How dare this man flirt with his bride right in front of him?


    "Boy, you''re courting death!" King Yama shouted as he reached out with a palm strike aimed at Zhong Shan.


    The strike unleashed a violent gust of wind, spreading in all directions, with his hand turning dark as it emitted streams of malicious energy.


    As the palm descended, everyone fell silent, eyes wide in anticipation.


    In the distance, Zhao Da Toad, Bai Gu, and the other defeated challengers felt a chill run down their spines. Zhong Shan was in for it now. King Yama didn''t even use such force against them��this was a sure death sentence.


    To the ghost cultivators, King Yama''s power was immense. With this strike, Zhong Shan would either be dead or severely injured.


    Was King Yama really that powerful? He was merely a puppet of the Heavenly Court. Back in the day, when Sun Wukong had first attained his Dao, his physical body hadn''t even entered the underworld��his spirit alone had been summoned. Yet even then, he had beaten King Yama without giving him a chance to fight back. And now, King Yama dared to strike at Zhong Shan?


    "Boom!"


    A massive explosion resounded as King Yama''s palm collided with Zhong Shan''s. But instead of being blown away, Zhong Shan caught King Yama''s hand with his own, freezing it in midair. The only result of the sh was a gust of wind that knocked Nian Youyou''s phoenix crown off her head.


    Nian Youyou stared at Zhong Shan in stunned silence.


    Though she was excited, she was also worried that Zhong Shan might be angry with her. She didn''t dare to speak.


    "Don''t go through with the weddinge with me!" Zhong Shan said as he effortlessly held back King Yama''s descending palm with one hand while grabbing Nian Youyou''s hand with the other.


    "Yes!" Nian Youyou nodded.


    The moment she nodded, Luo Xingchen, standing behind Zhong Shan, waspletely convinced.


    "Wow~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The ghost cultivators erupted in shock. The scene before them was too overwhelming. Zhong Shan had not only blocked King Yama''s strike with ease but was also about to walk away with the bride of the day right in front of everyone!


    "Is this for real?"


    "Zhong Shan? He''s ridiculously powerful!"


    "How is this even possible?"


    ...


    The crowd buzzed with disbelief.


    Judge Lu was utterly devastated��he knew he was doomed.


    Maitreya Buddha''s eyelids twitched as he muttered, "The sixth divine power in the world? Love''s Awakening?"


    "The sixth divine power in the world? Love''s Awakening? Could it be?" Burning Lamp also showed a hint of surprise.


    "Master, may I ask, what is this sixth divine power, Love''s Awakening?" Nezha asked, addressing Burning Lamp with the respect due to a senior.


    Burning Lamp looked at Nezha and exined, "Love''s Awakening is considered the sixth divine power because it has the ability to change a person''s heart. In this world, everything can be changed, including time and space, but the heart is the most difficult to alter. When Love''s Awakening is used, the target will fall hopelessly in love with the one who cast the divine power. It''s said that a female Ancestor Immortal who mastered Love''s Awakening once had fifteen male Ancestor Immortals devoted to her, forming an incredibly powerful force. Because of this, Love''s Awakening is revered as the sixth divine power in the world."


    "Is that what''s happening here?" Nezha asked, his tone skeptical.


    "I''m not sure. It depends on whether they know each other or not��I can''t tell," Burning Lamp replied, shaking his head.


    Nian Ben and the Crown Prince exchanged nces. Neither had anticipated this oue, and anger quickly boiled over within them.


    But the most furious of all was King Yama.


    He swiftly pulled his hand from Zhong Shan''s grip and shouted, "You scoundrel! Men, arrest Zhong Shan! Capture him immediately!"


    "Roar!" Arge number of ghost guards charged forward.


    Zhong Shan let out a cold smile, not even needing to lift a finger. Luo Xingchen stepped forward, unleashing a powerful aura that sent the ghost guards flying.


    Even King Yama, at the peak of Heavenly Immortal cultivation, was forced back ten zhang by Luo Xingchen''s aura before he could steady himself.


    "Rebellion! Rebellion! Men, kill them! Kill them all!" King Yama roared, his eyes red with rage.


    If Nian Youyou was taken from him, his reputation would be utterly destroyed. With a furious scream, even more ghost guards rushed forward, intent on killing Zhong Shan on the spot.


    But how many powerful warriors could a puppet city like Yama Hall possibly have?


    "Zhong Shan, let go of my sister!" Nian Ben suddenly shouted.


    As he stepped forward, the powerful aura of an Ancient Immortal surged toward Luo Xingchen.


    The Crown Prince also stepped forward, his Ancient Immortal aura pressing down on Luo Xingchen as well.


    With the three Ancient Immortals now revealing their power, the za around Yama Hall erupted into chaos. The countless ghost cultivators retreated again and again. Some of the musicians were knocked off bnce, while smaller buildings began to copse.


    King Yama and the others looked at the two brothers in astonishment��were they really this strong?


    "Someone, summon the Heart-Piercing Envoys from the Sixteen Heart-Piercing Hells!" King Yama shouted.


    "Yes, sir!"


    At this moment, Maitreya Buddha and Burning Lamp exchanged a look, and after some consideration, they both stepped forward. Though Burning Lamp did not wish to oppose Zhong Shan, being part of the Great Thunderp Temple meant he had no choice but to stand on King Yama''s side.


    Now, Zhong Shan and his group faced off against four Ancient Immortals!


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 997: The Battle in Front of Yama Hall

    <h4>Chapter 997: The Battle in Front of Yama Hall</h4>


    As the auras of the four Ancient Immortals were unleashed, they immediately overpowered Luo Xingchen''s aura.


    Although Luo Xingchen was an exceptional Ancient Immortal, so were Burning Lamp, Maitreya Buddha, and the Crown Prince. Naturally, they quickly overwhelmed Luo Xingchen.


    However, none of the four moved forward to attack right away.


    "Burning Lamp Buddha, Maitreya Buddha, help me kill them!" King Yama shouted in fury.


    Yet, despite themand, none of the four acted, choosing instead to continue exerting their pressure on Luo Xingchen.


    "Saint King Zhong, today is King Yama''s wedding, witnessed by the world. I ask that you please let this go," Burning Lamp said solemnly.


    <strong>Saint King Zhong?</strong> The ghost cultivators who had retreated to a distance were taken aback��this Zhong Shan was a Saint King?


    Nian Youyou wanted to speak, but Zhong Shan pulled her behind him. Nangong Sheng and Mr. Corpse instinctively positioned themselves to protect Nian Youyou.


    "Let go? When Zhong Shan sets his mind on something, I never let go. Burning Lamp Buddha, haven''t you suffered enough already?" Zhong Shan''s eyes grew cold, and an aura of dominance radiated from him.


    More and more ghost guards gathered around, and the distant ghost cultivators watching were filled with shock at Zhong Shan''s defiance. Burning Lamp Buddha was a figure of legendary power, and yet Zhong Shan suggested that he had already made Burning Lamp suffer? What could that mean?


    Burning Lamp''s brow furrowed as he considered his options. "This concerns the reputation of Yama Hall. If the Buddha learns of this, he will not stand idly by. I apologize, but I must act."


    Maitreya Buddha remained silent, using his aura to pressure Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan, so you''vee here as well? It''s time we settle our old scores!" Nian Ben suddenly shouted coldly at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan gave Nian Ben a cold nce, then ignored him, turning his attention to the Crown Prince instead.


    "Great Crown Prince of the Wuxiang Holy Court, Nian Can?" Zhong Shan asked, eyeing the Crown Prince.


    "I''ve long heard that Saint King Zhong has the power to turn the impossible into reality, and it seems your reputation is well deserved," Nian Can responded with a serious smile.


    "Nian Ben, Nian Can, kill Zhong Shan for me!" King Yama shouted, desperate for action.


    However, neither Nian Ben nor Nian Can moved immediately. They knew that dealing with Zhong Shan and Luo Xingchen wouldn''t be easy��they would need to cooperate with Burning Lamp and Maitreya Buddha.


    Seeing that no one was following his orders, King Yama became furious.


    Suddenly, a powerful wave of energy swept over the area, causing nearly everyone to look skyward.


    From all directions, sixteen powerful figures d in red flew toward the scene.


    "The Heart-Piercing Envoys from the Sixteen Heart-Piercing Hells? They''ve arrived?" someone from the distance shouted.


    "The Heart-Piercing Envoys? Even King Yama can''t usuallymand them. Why are they all here now?"


    "Zhong Shan is in big trouble!"


    ...


    The sixteen men in red had cold, stern expressions.


    "Ancient Immortals? The Heart-Piercing Envoys?" Burning Lamp remarked in surprise.


    "It seems Yama Hall is not as superficial as it appears," Maitreya Buddha nodded.


    "King Yama, since Yama Hall has such powerful figures, we''ll leave this to you," Burning Lamp said with a slight bow.


    He had been prepared to act out of necessity, but with the arrival of the Heart-Piercing Envoys, there was no need for him to intervene.


    Maitreya Buddha also stepped back slightly.


    Nian Ben and Nian Can exchanged nces and quickly withdrew as well.


    <strong>Sixteen Ancient Immortals?</strong> How could Yama Hall have such power, and yet King Yama himself be so weak?


    As soon as the Heart-Piercing Envoys arrived, they coldly observed Zhong Shan and his group, positioning themselves in the air to form a circle, surrounding Zhong Shan and hispanions.


    "Heart-Piercing Envoys? Why... why have all of youe?" King Yama''s face twitched as he spoke.


    "Didn''t you summon us?" one of the Heart-Piercing Envoys replied coldly.


    "I did, but in the past, when I summoned you, only one or two woulde at most. This time, all of you have shown up. This... this..." King Yama stammered, a trace of reluctance in his voice.


    "The Ten Halls of Yama Hall uphold the ancient will, yet you have repeatedly brought shame to Yama Hall. For tens of thousands of years, you''ve indulged in frivolities, failing to advance your cultivation to the level of a Great Immortal. After this incident, we will reassess your qualifications as King Yama!" the Heart-Piercing Envoy said sternly.


    <strong>Reassess your qualifications as King Yama?</strong>


    Hearing this, King Yama''s face turned ashen. Although he had managed to maintain a high profile, the sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys held authority over him. If they unanimously agreed, they could rece him as King Yama.


    "Yama Hall''s envoys?" Zhong Shan said solemnly, turning his attention to the Heart-Piercing Envoy who had spoken.


    Sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys? These were the true masters of Yama Hall, akin to how the y Bodhisattva was the master of the Wheel-Turning Hall. Just as the y Bodhisattva was an enigmatic figure, these sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys were likely extremely powerful, though they didn''t unt their strength.


    The sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys simultaneously focused their gaze on Zhong Shan and hispanions.


    "Disrupting the honor of Yama Hall��this is punishable by death!" one of the envoys dered.


    "Punishable by death!" the group of Heart-Piercing Envoys echoed in unison, their voices filled with an overwhelming killing intent that bore down on Zhong Shan and his followers.


    As the killing intent of the sixteen Ancient Immortals surged forth, Luo Xingchen swiftly drew the Xuanyuan Bow. However, with sixteen Ancient Immortals surrounding them, Luo Xingchen hesitated, unsure where to strike. He could shoot an arrow and even escape, as the sixteen couldn''t stop him, but what would happen to the others if he fled?


    "Yama Hall Seal!" the leading Heart-Piercing Envoy suddenlymanded.


    <strong>Yama Hall Seal?</strong> Upon hearing this, Zhong Shan immediately understood. The y Bodhisattva had once used a simr Wheel-Turning Hall Seal, which had annihted an Ancient Immortal with overwhelming power.


    The sixteen Ancient Immortals immediately raised their hands, fingers pointing skyward as they performed a synchronized seal.


    "Hummm!"


    A massive ck seal materialized in the sky, and its appearance brought a terrifying pressure that enveloped all of Yama City.


    The enormous seal seemed to lock onto Zhong Shan and his group, intent on crushing thempletely.


    Luo Xingchen released an arrow skyward.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A tremendous explosion rang out as the seal only wavered slightly before shattering the arrow, continuing its descent toward Zhong Shan and hispanions.


    In the distance, countless eyes were fixed on the scene, watching in awe as the powerful ck seal descended.


    The legendary treasure of Yama Hall��the Yama Hall Seal?


    The immense pressure from the seal caused the ground to sink slightly, and the surrounding buildings were reduced to rubble by the sheer force. Even Mr. Corpse and Nangong Sheng were rendered immobile by the oppressive aura.


    But Zhong Shan remained calm in the face of danger, his gaze cold as he stared up at the seal.


    In one swift motion, Zhong Shan produced a square seal in his hand.


    <strong>Fangtian Imperial Seal!</strong>


    Fangtian Imperial Seal shot skyward, rushing to meet the descending Yama Hall Seal.


    As it soared, the Fangtian Imperial Seal appeared to waver, as if it couldn''t withstand the overwhelming aura of the Yama Hall Seal.


    But in an instant, the red gem atop the Fangtian Imperial Seal began to glow, emitting a vast, radiant red light like a rising sun.


    The red light was incredibly bright, yet it carried an aura of righteousness, inspiring both fear and reverence in those who beheld it.


    The red light enveloped the Fangtian Imperial Seal as it shed with the descending Yama Hall Seal.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A massive explosion echoed as the two seals collided, locking together in a fierce struggle. The ck aura of the Wailing Hell surged into the Yama Hall Seal, continuously feeding it with powerful energy.


    Meanwhile, the Fangtian Imperial Seal was sustained by the red light emanating from the red gem on top.


    As the two seals shed, they appeared to be evenly matched, neither one gaining the upper hand.


    Burning Lamp and the others looked on with grave expressions.


    "The Yama Hall Seal? It''s said that only the Haotian Seal of the Jade Emperor could counter it, and that even the imperial seals of most holy courts wouldn''t stand a chance. But Zhong Shan''s seal..." Burning Lamp murmured in disbelief.


    "Rise!" Zhong Shan shouted, pointing toward the sky.


    With thatmand, the Fangtian Imperial Seal red with an intense red light, unleashing a powerful aura that rippled through the air. The very space around it seemed to shudder, sending waves of spatial distortion radiating outward.


    Wherever the waves passed, everything was crushed��the entire Yama City experienced an unprecedented upheaval. The ground churned, countless buildings copsed, and the city walls crumbled, throwing Yama City into chaos.


    Yet, Yama Hall itself remained intact, standing proudly amidst the destruction.


    "Luo Xingchen, shoot!" Zhong Shanmanded loudly.


    "Yes!"


    Luo Xingchen swiftly released five arrows in quick session, each arrow a streak of golden light targeting five of the Heart-Piercing Envoys.


    The five envoys, who had been controlling the Yama Hall Seal, immediately recognized the arrows'' power and quickly summoned their treasures to block the attack.


    "Boom!" "Boom!" "Boom!" ...


    Luo Xingchen''s arrows, whose power had been demonstrated back at Sacred Corpse Mountain, were immensely formidable.


    One of the Ancient Immortals was struck and injured, while the others narrowly evaded the arrows, causing the Yama Hall Seal to lose much of its power.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a renewed surge of power, the Fangtian Imperial Seal smashed into the Yama Hall Seal, sending it flying.


    The eleven remaining Heart-Piercing Envoys felt the bacsh of the failed seal.


    "Fire!"


    Luo Xingchen unleashed a second volley of arrows, aimed directly at the remaining Heart-Piercing Envoys. With no one to sustain it, the Yama Hall Seal dissipated into nothingness.


    "Zhong Shan''s seal... is it an Ancestor Immortal artifact?" Burning Lamp finally confirmed.


    In the sky, the sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys, realizing that the Yama Hall Seal was no longer effective, abandoned it. They each drew their own unique weapons, blocking Luo Xingchen''s arrows as they charged toward Zhong Shan.


    The battle had truly begun. Zhong Shan and hispanions were now engaged in a fierce fight against the sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys.


    The thunderous sounds of battle reverberated outside Yama Hall. The power of the Ancient Immortals was devastating��aside from Yama Hall, nearly all other pces in the vicinity had been reduced to rubble.


    At the entrance of Yama Hall, a man in a robe, wearing a lotus-adorned monk''s hat, stepped out.


    The man had a small mustache, a paleplexion, and an extremely calm demeanor. He held a staff in his hand as he watched the distant battle with a serene expression.


    "Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva!" one of the Yama Hall guards greeted him with deep reverence.


    As Ksitigarbha emerged, Burning Lamp, King Yama, and the others immediately noticed him.


    "Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, invaders havee to the underworld! Even the sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys can''t deal with them. Please, help us destroy these outsiders!" King Yama pleaded urgently.


    "I am fully aware of the right and wrong in this situation," Ksitigarbha replied, shaking his head.


    Although he hadn''t appeared until now, Ksitigarbha had been keenly aware of the events outside.


    Ksitigarbha looked toward the heart of the battle, where the sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys had yet to make any significant progress against their opponents. There were five of them, but only two were actively fighting.


    "Zhong Shan? A Daluo Heavenly Immortal at the fourth level, yet he can stand against several Ancient Immortals?" Ksitigarbha murmured, slightly impressed.


    Only an Ancestor Immortal could discern Zhong Shan''s cultivation level at a nce.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 998: The Origin of Mr. Corpse

    <h4>Chapter 998: The Origin of Mr. Corpse</h4>


    Zhong Shan stood atop the mighty Eight-Extreme Heavenly Tail, its immense eight tails disying their ferocious power, unleashing endless sword qi. Zhong Shan, facing several Heart-Piercing Envoys alone, remained undefeated!


    The battle grew increasingly intense. Though it appeared that Zhong Shan and Luo Xingchen were struggling, the fact that Zhong Shan was only using the Eight-Extreme Heavenly Tail and the Fangtian Imperial Seal indicated that he had yet to exert his full strength.


    Part of his restraint was due to caution, but more importantly, Zhong Shan had not gone for the kill.


    The Heart-Piercing Envoys��these Ancient Immortals��could have been consumed one by one by the Eight-Extreme Heavenly Tail, steadily reducing their numbers. But Zhong Shan didn''t do so��not out of mercy, but because these individuals were already part of hisrger n.


    Sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys? Yama Hall?


    These would eventually be part of his own domain. There was no need to annihte thempletely!


    To outside observers, however, Zhong Shan''s group was already formidable enough. Facing off against sixteen Ancient Immortals without defeat was a feat that would soon be known across the world, earning them the respect of all.


    At this moment, nearly everyone had etched the name Zhong Shan into their memories.


    Zhong Shan''s actions at Sacred Corpse Mountain were merely a prelude, but his disy of power at Yama Hall was a true show of his might. Battling against sixteen Ancient Immortals?


    After over half an hour of fiercebat, many of the Heart-Piercing Envoys had suffered injuries to varying degrees, but their pride as members of Yama Hall drove them to continue fighting.


    King Yama watched the battle in the sky, his heart filled with mixed emotions. What was he supposed to do now? The sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys would surely me him for this.


    "Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, don''t you think you should step in and eliminate that demon Zhong Shan?" King Yama whispered anxiously.


    Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva smiled faintly.


    With a wave of his hand, a blood-red light descended from the heavens.


    It was a path of the Heavenly Dao, a crimson path.


    As the Heavenly Dao appeared, it immediately enveloped thebatants.


    In an instant, both Zhong Shan and the Heart-Piercing Envoys felt their movements slow, and they all turned to look toward Yama Hall.


    "Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva!" The sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys offered a slight bow.


    They were well aware that dealing with Zhong Shan was impossible without Ksitigarbha''s intervention.


    Zhong Shan also looked toward the handsome man in monk''s robes.


    Like Mr. Corpse, this man had a small mustache, making him stand out.


    "The underworld is not a ce for you to cause chaos. The underworld has its own rules. Release Nian Youyou, and I will let you go," Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva said calmly.


    "Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva? You can''t let Zhong Shan go!" King Yama protested urgently.


    In King Yama''s mind, Zhong Shan had to be captured and torn to pieces. But why was Ksitigarbha letting him go?


    Burning Lamp cast a cold nce at King Yama. Let Zhong Shan go? Even a cornered rabbit can bite��how much more so someone like Zhong Shan? Back in the Nuwa Realm, Zhong Shan had even managed to injure an Ancestor Immortal. Ksitigarbha''s approach was already a great favor to King Yama.


    "Release Nian Youyou? Are you joking?" Zhong Shan retorted coldly.


    "...!"


    Everyone around was stunned for a moment. Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva was an existence who had reached the level of Ancestor Immortal long ago, yet Zhong Shan spoke to him with such a tone?


    Not just the onlookers, but even the sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys were now looking at Zhong Shan as though he were a dead man.


    "Di Zang��Wang!"


    Suddenly, from within the protection of the Eight-Extreme Heavenly Tail, Mr. Corpse spoke, calling out, "Di Zang��Wang!"


    Everyone turned to look at Mr. Corpse in confusion. What was this man doing, calling out to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva?


    Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva furrowed his brow as he looked at Mr. Corpse.


    "Di Zang��Wang!" Mr. Corpse called out again.


    Ksitigarbha''s expression suddenly changed as he stared intently at Mr. Corpse.


    "Who are you? How do you know my true identity?" Ksitigarbha asked, his voice betraying a slight tremor.


    Those around were baffled. What was going on with Ksitigarbha? Everyone knew he was Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. The man just called out his name��anyone could do that.


    "Are you Di Zang��Wang?" Mr. Corpse asked again.


    King Yama and the sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys looked at Mr. Corpse with puzzled expressions. Wasn''t it obvious? He''s Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva.


    But only Ksitigarbha understood the deeper meaning behind Mr. Corpse''s words.


    "Who are you?" Ksitigarbha''s expression suddenly turned cold.


    "From the Zang family��Shishou!" Mr. Corpse replied.


    After speaking, Mr. Corpse began to recite a chant, a series of words so cryptic that no one else could understand them. The chant seemed like some kind of secret code.


    Ksitigarbha''s previously calm demeanor suddenly shifted to one of rare delight. His expression then became serious.


    With a wave of his hand, the Heavenly Dao path in the sky abruptly dissipated.


    "Sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys, allow me to handle this matter," Ksitigarbha said to the sixteen envoys.


    "Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has spoken; we willply. We take our leave," the sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys responded with a nod.


    With that, the sixteen envoys blurred and dispersed in all directions, presumably returning to the Sixteen Heart-Piercing Hells.


    At this moment, King Yama was the most relieved of all. He sighed quietly in relief. With the departure of the sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys, it seemed they wouldn''t hold him ountable after all.


    Feeling ted, King Yama shot a grateful nce at Ksitigarbha.


    "The farce ends here. My apologies to everyone," Ksitigarbha said to the others.


    "Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, there''s no need to apologize!" Bull Demon King and the others quickly responded.


    "Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, the Buddha has extended an invitation. When might you find time to visit the Great Thunderp Temple? The Buddha wishes to elevate you to the status of a Buddha," Maitreya Buddha said with a smile.


    "Please convey my thanks to the Buddha, but I made a great vow long ago: ''If the hells are not empty, I shall not be a Buddha.'' I must first deliver all the evil spirits from the Pit of Ghosts," Ksitigarbha replied, shaking his head.


    "No, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, this time the invitation is not from the Buddha," Maitreya Buddha said.


    "Oh? Then from whom? Has another prodigy emerged at the Great Thunderp Temple?" Ksitigarbha asked, slightly surprised.


    "It is not from a new talent but from the founder of the Great Thunderp Temple, Amitabha Buddha!" Maitreya Buddha replied, his tone filled with deep reverence.


    <strong>Amitabha Buddha?</strong>


    Upon hearing those four words, Ksitigarbha''s pupils contracted.


    After staring at Maitreya Buddha for a moment, Ksitigarbha took a deep breath and said, "I see now, I finally understand!"


    "What do you understand, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva?" Burning Lamp asked, puzzled.


    "Amitabha Buddha... No wonder, no wonder all the monks and Buddhists across the Four Great Continents chant ''Amitabha Buddha'' as their mantra. With each recitation, a small amount of merit is generated. Though the merit is small, it umtes with the countless people who chant it. One person''s chant creates an immense pool of merit. Amitabha Buddha��such a brilliant n!" Ksitigarbha sighed.


    Ksitigarbha hade to realize that the n had been meticulously crafted by the cunning Jieyin. The downfall of the sages was predestined by the Heavenly Dao, yet Jieyin had nted a resurrection strategy among the world''s monks. By elevating the Great Thunderp Temple as the pinnacle of Buddhism and leading the world to chant "Amitabha Buddha," Jieyin had paved the way for his own rebirth.


    Such a subtle and hidden path to resurrection��truly invisible and intangible.


    "The world will once again enter a time of turmoil," Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva sighed, shaking his head.


    From Jieyin''s resurrection, Ksitigarbha had discerned much. At the very least, among the fallen sages of the past, there were many who were even more cunning than Jieyin��figures like Hongjun, Taishang, and Yuanshi, all of whom were masters of meticulous nning.


    In the past, Ksitigarbha had wondered why, aside from Nuwa''s desperate counterattack before her fall, the other sages had passed away so quietly. Now, he understood��they were all waiting for the day of their return.


    "When do you n to visit the Great Thunderp Temple?" Maitreya Buddha asked.


    Ksitigarbha looked at Maitreya Buddha and shook his head. "I will not go to the Great Thunderp Temple. Jieyin''s actions go against the natural order. Heaven''s will must punish him. As for you, be careful with your choices."


    Maitreya Buddha and Burning Lamp furrowed their brows but did not press further.


    After exchanging a few more words, Ksitigarbha turned his attention back to Zhong Shan and hispanions, especially focusing on Mr. Corpse.


    "Please,e inside," Ksitigarbha said courteously.


    "Hmm," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    The Eight-Extreme Heavenly Tail shrank and settled on Zhong Shan''s shoulder as the group followed Ksitigarbha into the grand hall.


    King Yama watched with displeasure as Nian Youyou leaned against Zhong Shan, but with Ksitigarbha treating them so politely, what could he do?


    Nian Ben and Nian Can observed coldly from the sidelines. Nian Ben seemed on the verge of saying something but was held back by Nian Can, who remained silent.


    "Boom!"


    The grand hall doors mmed shut.


    Ksitigarbha looked at Mr. Corpse, then at Zhong Shan and the others.


    "This is the Saint King of Daeng. I currently serve in Daeng, and these are all officials of Daeng," Mr. Corpse exined.


    Ksitigarbha examined the group before nodding.


    "You said earlier that you are...?" Ksitigarbha sought confirmation once more.


    "From the Zang family��Shishou!" Mr. Corpse repeated.


    Ksitigarbha suddenly extended his right index finger, which ignited with a small, icy blue me.


    Mr. Corpse likewise extended his right index finger, which red with a white me.


    When their fingertips touched, the mes shed with a crackling sound before the blue me on Ksitigarbha''s finger waspletely absorbed by Mr. Corpse''s white me.


    Retracting their fingers, Ksitigarbha''s expression fluctuated as he stared at Mr. Corpse, as though struggling with something in his mind.


    "There''s no need for you to be troubled. The Zang family��now, it''s just me. Tianzang, Xuanzang, Huangzang��they''ve long disappeared, perhaps all perished. I don''t expect you to acknowledge me as the head of the Zang family. I merely want to ask for your help," Mr. Corpse said with a bitter smile, shaking his head.


    Ksitigarbha looked at Mr. Corpse, his expression continuously shifting. After a moment, he took a deep breath, as if finallying to a decision.


    With a formal half-bow, Ksitigarbha said, "Di Zang��Wang, pays respects to the head of the Zang family!"


    Zhong Shan and the others remained silent, their eyes filled with astonishment. Mr. Corpse''s identity? The Zang family?


    Mr. Corpse gazed deeply at Ksitigarbha. Although Ksitigarbha had acknowledged his status as the head of the Zang family, it was clear from his earlier hesitation that there was still some resistance in his heart.


    "After the decline of the Zang family, the Di Zang lineage must have passed through many generations," Mr. Corpse remarked.


    "After the fall of the Zang family, I am the ninth generation of Di Zang," Ksitigarbha nodded.


    "Nine generations... You don''t need to treat me with such deference. I came here today simply to borrow your Pit of Ghosts. I need it to cleanse the mark of the sage," Mr. Corpse said solemnly.


    Hearing Mr. Corpse''s openness andck of arrogance as the head of the family, Ksitigarbha quietly sighed in relief. After all, no one liked to suddenly gain a master, especially when they had already reached the level of Ancestor Immortal, while this "master" was only a Heavenly Immortal!


    "Very well, you may enter the Pit of Ghosts with me whenever you''re ready," Ksitigarbha quickly agreed.


    "Hmm," Mr. Corpse acknowledged.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 999: The Pit of Ghosts

    <h4>Chapter 999: The Pit of Ghosts</h4>


    After their conversation, the group exited the grand hall once more.


    By this time, Nian Ben and Nian Can had disappeared from outside the hall.


    "King Yama, where are my two brothers?" Nian Youyou suddenly asked.


    King Yama looked at Nian Youyou with aplex expression, then nced at Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. As expected, in just a short time, they had alreadypletely gained Ksitigarbha''s trust.


    Earlier, the sixteen Heart-Piercing Envoys had been determined to depose King Yama, but Ksitigarbha had forcefully intervened on his behalf. Now, King Yama had no intention of going against Ksitigarbha. Marrying a wife was one thing, but losing his position was not an option.


    "They... they just left, and in quite a hurry too!" King Yama replied truthfully.


    "They left? Why did they leave so quickly? They didn''t even say goodbye to me, their sister. It must have been something urgent that needed them to leave Yama City so suddenly!" Nian Youyou remarked with a hint of regret.


    "Uh, maybe it was something urgent," King Yama responded, now in no mood for further conversation.


    Of course, Zhong Shan knew Nian Youyou''s temperament well. Inside the hall, Zhong Shan had already learned that Nian Can and Nian Ben had forced Nian Youyou into the marriage. There was no way Nian Youyou still harbored any feelings for them. Her words just now must have had some other purpose.


    At that moment, Mr. Corpse performed a spell, and with a wave of his hand, a group of zombies emerged from the ground, carrying a coffin as they slowly approached Mr. Corpse.


    Huh?


    The people around were slightly surprised, but no one said anything, as controlling a few zombies was amon sight in the underworld.


    "Let''s go," Ksitigarbha said.


    "Alright," the group nodded.


    Ksitigarbha led the way, slowly heading toward another rtively intact hall not far away.


    "King Yama, they want to enter the Eighteenth Layer of Hell, the Pit of Ghosts?" Judge Lu asked in surprise.


    King Yama turned and shot a cold nce at Judge Lu, who immediately felt a chill down his spine.


    With Yama Hall in ruins and the wedding guests having no reason to stay, they all bid farewell to King Yama and left one by one.


    That night, in Yama Hall.


    Inside the hall, a group of high-ranking officials from the underworld gathered, all watching King Yama. What was wrong with him? Had he not yet recovered from the humiliation of having his bride stolen?


    At that moment, King Yama frantically searched the hall, finally copsing into a chair, his face filled with despair.


    "King Yama, it''s over. Let it go. There will be plenty of women waiting for you in the future," Meng Poforted.


    "It''s over, it''s gone, it''s lost!" King Yama muttered in despair.


    "What''s lost?" the officials asked, confused.


    "The Book of Life and Death! The Book of Life and Death is gone!" King Yama cried out, his face filled with panic.


    "King Yama, the Book of Life and Death is here in my hands," Judge Lu said softly, holding up a ck book.


    "That''s just a replica! I''m talking about the original! The original is gone!" King Yama shouted, his eyes wide with fear.


    "The Book of Life and Death is missing?" The hall erupted in chaos as everyone''s eyes filled with anxiety.


    "King Yama, don''t panic. Calm down and think. When was thest time you saw the Book of Life and Death?" Meng Po asked quickly.


    "Before the wedding, I looked at it and put it away in my robes. How could it have disappeared?" King Yama said, his voice trembling with anxiety.


    "Before the wedding? So, it was on you from the morning until the evening when it went missing. Who could have stolen the Book of Life and Death during that time?" Meng Po asked.


    "Zhong Shan?"


    "Zhong Shan? Impossible. From the moment he appeared, all eyes were on him. There''s no way he could have stolen the Book of Life and Death under so many watchful eyes," Meng Po shook her head.


    "I''ve figured it out! I know what happened!" King Yama suddenly shouted.


    "Who?" Everyone turned to look at King Yama.


    "Nian Ben and Nian Can! They''re the ones! Why did they leave in such a hurry without even saying goodbye to Nian Youyou? They must have felt guilty��they took the Book of Life and Death and fled!" King Yama eximed, as if suddenly enlightened.


    "So, what do we do now?" Meng Po asked, her face tense.


    Those two were Ancient Immortals, after all.


    King Yama''s face flickered with uncertainty as he thought it over. Finally, he said, "We''ll have to request the Heart-Piercing Envoys again. Have them hunt down the two and retrieve the Book of Life and Death!"


    Zhong Shan and his group followed Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva into another grand hall, which contained a downward-sloping entrance. As they descended the steps, the surroundings trembled slightly with each step.


    Zhong Shan understood that this wasn''t just an underground chamber but rather another small world, simr to the former Eternal Life World.


    As they reached the thirteenth step, a strong scent of blood assaulted their senses.


    "Ah!"


    "Roar!"


    "Ugh!"


    ... The air was filled with the sound of ghostly wails and howls, stripped of their usual haunting sorrow and reced with a vicious, ferocious energy. These were all evil spirits. Even after being condemned to the Eighteenth Layer of Hell, they remained evil.


    The group passed through a narrow passage and then halted at the entrance.


    Before them stretched an endless, vast sea of blood, churning violently with waves that reached the sky. The blood-red light was boundless.


    Within the blood sea, countless ck ghosts writhed and struggled, rising and falling with the waves. They seemed to be trying to soar into the sky but were always pulled back by the sea, trapped in its grasp. Even as they struggled, they emitted ferocious cries of agony.


    Nian Youyou instinctively moved closer to Zhong Shan.


    Above the blood sea hovered a massive golden swastika symbol, radiating a vast aura and apanied by waves of Buddhist chanting.


    "Is this the <i>Sutra of the Original Vows of Ksitigarbha</i>?" Zhong Shan asked.


    The <i>Sutra of the Original Vows of Ksitigarbha</i> was a text specifically used for the salvation of souls. Zhong Shan had heard a monk recite it at a rtive''s funeral when he was young.


    "Yes, the Zang family''s sutra for salvation," Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva replied directly.


    Zhong Shan looked at Mr. Corpse with a hint of surprise. What exactly was the origin of this Zang family?


    "Is this the giant coffin that bears the mark of a sage?" Ksitigarbha asked again, his eyes shing with interest as he looked at the coffin being carried by the zombies.


    "Yes," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    "Perhaps I could take a look. It''s possible I could remove the mark without needing the Pit of Ghosts," Ksitigarbha offered.


    Ksitigarbha wasn''t boasting; as an Ancestor Immortal, he possessed the ability to remove weaker sage marks.


    "No need," Mr. Corpse shook his head, immediately refusing Ksitigarbha''s offer.


    Though Mr. Corpse could temporarily trust the Di Zang lineage, which had been separated from the Zang family for nine generations, he wasn''t ready to trust thempletely.


    Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva nodded in understanding and didn''t press the matter further. He pointed to a few buildings near the edge of the blood sea and said, "Over there are some pces where you can stay temporarily."


    "Alright," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    "I''ll be over there," Ksitigarbha added, pointing in another direction. "If you need anything, you can find me there."


    "Hmm," Mr. Corpse acknowledged with a nod.


    "Master Ksitigarbha!" Zhong Shan suddenly called out.


    "Hmm?" Ksitigarbha turned to Zhong Shan.


    "I''ve heard that you have a mythical beast named ''Diting.'' Could you introduce me? I''ve been curious about Diting for a long time," Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    Though Zhong Shan wasn''t ready to fully open up to Ksitigarbha just yet, there were certain things that needed to be addressed. Diting, rumored to understand the heavens and earth, was something Zhong Shan needed to be cautious of in the days toe.


    "Diting? He''s not here. I''ve sent him out on a mission," Ksitigarbha replied solemnly.


    "Really?" Zhong Shan scrutinized Ksitigarbha.


    "It''s the truth," Ksitigarbha affirmed without hesitation.


    "That''s a pity," Zhong Shan sighed, shaking his head.


    "Oh, by the way, a peerless demon has emerged from this blood sea. It''s because of this demon that the evil spirits in the blood pool have be even more ferocious and difficult to subdue. I wounded it several months ago, but it fled into the depths of the blood pool. It''s extremely cunning. If it reappears, crush this jade talisman, and I''lle immediately," Ksitigarbha said, handing Mr. Corpse a jade talisman.


    "Hmm," Mr. Corpse nodded.


    With that, the group made their way to the residence Ksitigarbha had indicated.


    Surveying the area, Nangong Sheng began setting up an array formation. His setup was meticulous, drawing from his insights into the <i>Book of the Earth</i> and the Heavenly Cmity Chessboard. It took him an entire day to perfect the formation.


    "Activate the array!" Nangong Sheng called out.


    Immediately, a radiant light emanated from the pce, repelling the surrounding blood mist and malevolent energy.


    In another pce far from the Pit of Ghosts, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva sat on a lotus tform. His expression shifted slightly, and then he shook his head with a faint smile. "The Zang family has indeed fallen for too long. Even this generation''s Shishou is so cautious. What an array��it''s even blocking my detection. But I have my own tribtion to face. I have no time to meddle in their affairs. Once I survive this trial, I''ll reconsider the matter of the Zang family. I just hope Diting doesn''t disappoint me this time."


    As he spoke, Ksitigarbha brought out several purple bamboo branches, arranging them in the air. As he did so, his brow furrowed.


    "A great tribtion... truly a great tribtion. There''s no avoiding it. It seems I must enter the fray myself," Ksitigarbha muttered, a look of concern crossing his face.


    The grand hall fell into a deep silence.


    Meanwhile, back where Zhong Shan and his group were, everyone was gathered around the giant coffin.


    "Mr. Corpse, can we begin?" Zhong Shan asked solemnly.


    "Two more days. I need to inscribe the coffin with corpse runes," Mr. Corpse replied.


    "Very well. We''ll stand guard for you," Zhong Shan said.


    Mr. Corpse nodded.


    He then retrieved a brush and a dish of golden liquid, carefully beginning to inscribe strange symbols on the surface of the purple coffin.


    The group watched for a long time but couldn''t make sense of the symbols. They were unlike anything they had ever seen��so bizarre that just looking at them induced a sense of dizziness.


    Over the course of the two days, they waited patiently. During this time, Nian Youyou took out a small ck book.


    "This is that old ghost King Yama''s Book of Life and Death. My father''s ancestor sent me and the two princes to retrieve it. I managed to steal it earlier. Hmph, those two traitors betrayed me, so I made sure they couldn''t get the book and caused them a lot of trouble," Nian Youyou said with a resentful tone.


    "The Book of Life and Death?"


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1000: Golden Eye Technique

    <h4>Chapter 1000: Golden Eye Technique</h4>


    Two dayster, at the edge of the Pit of Ghosts.


    The group emerged from the pce, with several zombies carrying the purple coffin. The coffin was now inscribed with countless golden characters, giving it an extremely eerie appearance.


    Standing on the shore, Mr. Corpse controlled the zombies as they carried the coffin toward the vast blood sea.


    Slowly, they waded into the blood sea.


    "Ah!" "Roar!" "Ugh!" ... The evil spirits within the blood sea howled in rage, swarming toward the zombies.


    In an instant, countless evil spirits began ferociously biting and tearing at the zombies. Within moments, the zombies were stripped of their flesh, leaving only the purple coffin floating on the surface of the blood sea.


    "Sizzle!"


    The evil spirits tried to attack the purple coffin, but as soon as they touched the golden characters, a sizzling sound erupted, like water droplets on a hot iron.


    The spirits dared not approach but continued to hover around the purple coffin.


    "Sacred King, please guard me while I work," Mr. Corpse said.


    "Understood."


    With that, Mr. Corpse sat cross-legged, forming a mudra with his hands on his knees.


    He began chanting in an ancient, unintelligiblenguage. As the chant resonated, the golden characters on the purple coffin began to emit a faint golden light.


    The light formed a vortex around the coffin, drawing everything around it toward it.


    The evil spirits, countless in number, were sucked in, screaming as they were absorbed into the golden characters. Simultaneously,rge amounts of blood from the sea were drawn in as well.


    The powerful suction force visibly pulled everything toward the purple coffin.


    "Ah!" "Wail!" "Caw!" "Roar!" ... The evil spirits desperately tried to flee in all directions, but the suction was too strong, and they were swiftly drawn into the coffin.


    The entire Pit of Ghosts seemed to be boiling over.


    Zhong Shan and his group waited patiently.


    The purple coffin was now glowing red, and as the red light intensified, strange beams of light began to be forced out from within.


    "Bang! Bang! Bang!"


    Numerous sword energies materialized from thin air, shooting into the surrounding blood sea, creating waves of blood.


    From within the purple coffin, a shadowy ck sword slowly emerged.


    The sword''s shadow was faint but exuded an overwhelming aura of sharpness. The surrounding sword energies seemed to coalesce around the ck sword shadow.


    The Sword Saint��Tongtian Shengren!


    "This is the mark of Tongtian Shengren. Left behind by the figure known as Shang?" Luo Xingchen spected with a frown.


    Mr. Corpse''s incantation changed, and an influx of evil spirits and blood rushed toward the purple coffin, causing it to appear as though it had been entirely stained red.


    "Break!" Mr. Corpse shouted, his eyes snapping open.


    "Boom!"


    The sword shadow shattered, unleashing countless sword energies in all directions, stirring the blood sea into towering waves. Countless evil spirits were instantly annihted by the sword energy.


    Mr. Corpse let out a long breath of relief.


    "The mark of Tongtian Shengren... it''s broken!" Mr. Corpse said with a hint of excitement.


    However, at that moment, at the bottom of the Pit of Ghosts, a massive object, about a hundred zhang in size, began to stir. The object was dark red, resembling a stone, but it subtly writhed as if it were a solidified mass of blood.


    Suddenly, a crack appeared at the center of the blood mass, and a strange, purple eye opened within it, emitting an eerie glow that pierced through the blood sea toward the surface.


    The hundred-zhang blood mass slowly began to move upward toward the surface of the Pit of Ghosts.


    On the shore, Mr. Corpse was about to retrieve the purple coffin when his expression suddenly changed.


    "Something''s wrong!" Mr. Corpse shouted.


    "What''s the matter?" the others asked, puzzled.


    Mr. Corpse stared intently at the purple coffin and the golden characters that were still pulsating on its surface. He spoke in a grave tone, "This purple coffin... there''s another sage''s mark��there''s still one more!"


    With that, Mr. Corpse once again sat down cross-legged and began chanting, continuing the process of removing the second sage''s mark.


    "Another sage''s mark? Is it Confucius''s?" Luo Xingchen asked, puzzled.


    "Impossible. Even though we shed with Shang before, Confucius couldn''t have left a mark in such a short time," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    The group continued to wait as the endless blood sea churned once more, drawing countless evil spirits into the purple coffin.


    But this time, the sage''s mark seemed even stronger. An hour passed, and Mr. Corpse still hadn''t managed to expel it.


    "Stronger than the mark left by Tongtian?" they spected.


    As the group pondered this, more and more evil spirits gathered near the purple coffin, but not all of them seemed to be drawn to it.


    "Something''s off. That area doesn''t look like the purple coffin is attracting the evil spirits," Nangong Sheng pointed out, directing their attention to a spot near the purple coffin.


    Sure enough, the number of evil spirits in that area was overwhelming, piling up higher and higher.


    "What is that?" Zhong Shan focused his gaze.


    A hundred-zhang-sized blood mass slowly emerged into view.


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    The blood mass opened a massive maw and let out an earth-shaking roar. The force of its terrifying sonic waves caused the enormous swastika-shaped Buddhist symbol in the sky to tremble. The entire Pit of Ghosts was thrown into chaos.


    The entire blood sea seemed to be under the control of the monstrous blood mass, forming a massive vortex. Suddenly, the area around the purple coffin was emptied, and all the blood and evil spirits were drawn away.


    The purple coffin could no longer absorb any blood or spirits.


    Mr. Corpse''s expression darkened.


    "The peerless demon Ksitigarbha mentioned?" Nangong Sheng immediately recognized it.


    "What an incredibly powerful aura!" Luo Xingchen eximed, his eyes wide.


    "Sacred King, should we intervene?" Luo Xingchen asked Zhong Shan.


    Luo Xingchen could sense the demon''s immense power, clearly greater than his own. It felt as if the entire world was under the influence of this peerless demon. No wonder even Ksitigarbha could only wound it.


    The peerless demon let out another roar before suddenly focusing its gaze on the purple coffin. Its eerie purple eyes gleamed with a sh of greed.


    "Take action!" Zhong Shan ordered sternly.


    Mr. Corpse prepared to crush the jade talisman, ready to summon Ksitigarbha.


    "Wait, let me handle this!"


    Unexpectedly, the one who spoke up was Nian Youyou, who had been considered the weakest among them.


    Hearing Nian Youyou''s words, Luo Xingchen''s expression immediately changed. A sense of conflict stirred within him��<i>You? Against this peerless demon? Even I am uncertain, and you want to try?</i>


    However, considering Nian Youyou''s rtionship with Zhong Shan, Luo Xingchen kept his thoughts to himself.


    Nian Youyou stepped forward, her gaze fixed on the distant peerless demon.


    Her pupils contracted and then expanded, transforming from their original ck to a pair of golden irises.


    As soon as the golden eyes appeared, a powerful aura erupted from Nian Youyou''s gaze.


    Feeling the surge of power, Luo Xingchen''s expression shifted. <i>Eye techniques? Another eye technique? And judging by this aura, it''s an extremely potent one.</i> The distant peerless demon seemed to freeze in ce, possibly sensing the threat.


    Perhaps threatened, the peerless demon suddenly fixed its gaze on Nian Youyou and roared, as if preparing to charge at her.


    "Open!" Nian Youyou unleashed her eye technique.


    "Buzz!"


    Suddenly, the entire space was bathed in golden light, turning the world into a brilliant golden hue. The sky, the earth, and even the vast blood sea were engulfed in this golden light, with countless evil spirits letting out agonized screams.


    Nian Youyou''s eye technique was directly aimed at the peerless demon. In an instant, the demon''s form became like a small sun, glowing with blinding gold.


    Nian Youyou''s body swayed as if she were about to copse.


    Zhong Shan quickly caught her, clearly seeing that the eye technique had consumed a significant amount of her energy.


    Luo Xingchen was left speechless. The small hill in front of them had turned entirely into a golden hill, and the beach had transformed into golden sands. Even in the distance, though not fully turned to gold, a faint golden glow could still be seen.


    The golden light seemed to dissolve the evil spirits, causing many of them to vanish into thin air.


    As the blood sea slowly returned to its original color, the peerless demon that had been targeted by Nian Youyou''s eye technique appeared to have been turned into a statue made of gold. It was frozen in ce, unable to move or sink back into the blood sea.


    However, a part of the demon''s back, perhaps beyond the reach of the eye technique, had not fully turned to gold.


    Suddenly, a towering blood-red pir of light shot up to the sky.


    A blood-red heavenly path appeared, brushing against the peerless demon. Though the demon hadn''t fully merged with the heavenly path, it was clear that with the heavenly power, Nian Youyou''s eye technique would eventually be broken.


    "Channeling the power of the heavens? It truly is a peerless demon," Zhong Shan marveled.


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail suddenly flew toward the peerless demon. Zhong Shan wasn''t willing to give the demon another chance. Having caught it off guard and turned it to gold, he wasn''t sure if there would be another opportunity.


    Perhaps sensing the impending danger of the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail, the peerless demon began to sink slowly toward the bottom of the Pit of Ghosts.


    "Boom!"


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tailshed out, coiling around the demon. With most of its body immobilized by the golden transformation, the demon was helpless.


    "Chomp!"


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail devoured the peerless demon in one gulp.


    At the distant pce where Ksitigarbha resided, the bodhisattva stepped outside just in time to witness the scene of the peerless demon being devoured.


    Ksitigarbha was momentarily taken aback. He also noticed that the entire area seemed to be bathed in golden light. His pce, too, had beenpletely transformed into a structure of solid gold, and even the opposite shore had turned into a golden beach.


    In a single stride, Ksitigarbha appeared before Zhong Shan and the others.


    The Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail returned to Zhong Shan''s shoulder.


    Ksitigarbha looked at Nian Youyou with surprise.


    "Everyone, you''ve truly opened my eyes today!" Ksitigarbha remarked with admiration.


    "You''re too kind, Ksitigarbha. I''m sorry for disturbing your meditation just now," Zhong Shan said, supporting Nian Youyou.


    "No need to worry," Ksitigarbha replied with a smile.


    As he spoke, Ksitigarbha cast a discerning nce at the group, his gaze lingering on the purple coffin floating on the blood sea, surrounded by countless golden characters.


    "Corpse script? The Corpse Script of Purification?" Ksitigarbha seemed to recognize the writing on the coffin at a nce.


    Mr. Corpse had not yet crushed the jade talisman. But there was no time for further conversation. With Zhong Shan present, Mr. Corpse resumed chanting, continuing the process of purging the sage''s mark from the purple coffin.


    Although Nian Youyou''s eye technique had just annihted arge number of evil spirits, the Pit of Ghosts seemed to hold an endless supply of them. In no time, more evil spirits were drawn to the purple coffin.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1001: The Forehead Tomb

    <h4>Chapter 1001: The Forehead Tomb</h4>


    Another entire day and night had passed before the massive purple coffin slowly revealed yet another Saint''s mark.


    One must understand that the previous mark of the Tongtian Saint had taken merely an hour at most, yet this mark required a full day and night to appear. Naturally, everyone felt the immense strength of this Saint.


    As the mark emerged, it seemed like a halo of white light enveloping it��twisting and turning, vague yet exuding an otherworldly and lofty aura. The moment the mark appeared, a deep silence fell over the entire Blood Pool of Evil Spirits, as if this aura brought a sense of peace to all the evil spirits present.


    "Boom!" The mark exploded into fragments.


    "This... Is this the mark of Hongjun Daozu?" The Ksitigarbha King immediately recognized it.


    After speaking, the Ksitigarbha King nced at the massive purple coffin with a hint of envy in his eyes. He had known that this purple coffin was extraordinary, but he never imagined it would be connected to Hongjun.


    Hongjun��he was truly the number one under the heavens in those days.


    Unrivaled, invincible. If not for defying fate, he would have been the strongest in all the world. Anything associated with Hongjun was undoubtedly no ordinary object.


    "Hongjun?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow.


    "Could this coffin have been crafted by Hongjun himself?" Nangong Sheng asked in confusion.


    Crafted by Hongjun? The Ksitigarbha King examined the coffin once more, this time with even greater scrutiny.


    At that moment, Mr. Corpse performed another incantation, summoning the purple coffin back.


    Carried by several zombies, the coffin was returned to the previous pce, leaving no opportunity for the Ksitigarbha King to study it closely.


    Although he wanted to investigate further, Mr. Corpse''s intentions were clear, so the Ksitigarbha King didn''t persist. However, as the purple coffin was carried away, he gave it onest deep look.


    "Have you met Hongjun before?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "I met him a few times, but that was hundreds of thousands of years ago," the Ksitigarbha King replied, shaking his head.


    "Which Saint fell first, Hongjun or Tongtian?"


    "In the sequence of the Saints'' falls, first was Nuwa, followed by Tongtian, then Hongjun, after him were Jieyin, Zhunti, Yuanshi, andstly Taishang. We once believed that after their fall, that would be the end, but recently, Jieyin was reborn. It makes one ponder deeply on the fate of the fallen Saints," the Ksitigarbha King revealed without hesitation.


    "Jieyin reborn?" Zhong Shan had already spected about this during the earlier conversation between the Ksitigarbha King and Maitreya Buddha.


    "Hongjun fell after Tongtian?" Zhong Shan raised his eyebrows slightly, as if he had just realized something very important.


    "Yes, with Jieyin reborn, it''s possible the other Saints may have unexpected ways to return," the Ksitigarbha King continued.


    "Reborn? Can they use the same method?"


    "No, that would vite the Heavenly Dao''s bottom line. If two Saints were to be reborn using the same method, it would disturb the celestial order, and they would face punishment from the heavens, leading to their eternal obliteration," the Ksitigarbha King shook his head.


    "I have learned something valuable today," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "This is no secret. You could learn this from others as well," the Ksitigarbha King replied with a shake of his head.


    After speaking, the Ksitigarbha King looked towards Mr. Corpse.


    "Patriarch!" the Ksitigarbha King suddenly addressed him.


    Mr. Corpse raised an eyebrow but didn''t immediately respond.


    "What is it?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    "I wish to relinquish the tombstone jade of the Earth Burial lineage and return under themand of the Burial family!" the Ksitigarbha King said solemnly.


    Upon hearing the words of the Ksitigarbha King, Mr. Corpse''s pupils contracted slightly.


    In the past, Mr. Corpse might have been ted by such a statement. The act of handing over the "Tombstone Jade" would signify the Ksitigarbha King''s willingness to acknowledge the Burial Family and restore his ancient status as a servant of the family. However, after following Zhong Shan for so many years, Mr. Corpse had gained a profound understanding of human nature. The Ksitigarbha King had already split from the Burial Family for nine generations, and it was evident earlier that he had no desire to return to a servant''s status. How could he suddenly be willing to submit now?


    Moreover, Mr. Corpse knew he was weaker than the Ksitigarbha King. The fact that the King had refrained from striking him down was already a courtesy considering his status. No one is a fool, especially not someone as extraordinary as the Ksitigarbha King.


    This sudden desire to return under themand of the Burial Family was clearly an act of feignedpliance, hiding deeper motives or seeking something else.


    Mr. Corpse gave the Ksitigarbha King a long, thoughtful look and then shook his head. "The Burial Family has not yet been rebuilt. You don''t need to do this right now."


    The Ksitigarbha King let out a bitter smile. "Fewer than a handful of people in the world know that I am the Earth Burial Wraith, but at this moment, I have no other choice. Look at my Tombstone Jade."


    The Ksitigarbha King turned his hand to reveal a circr jade stone. The jade was pitch ck, but at its center was a bright red line, splitting the jade in half.


    Upon seeing this Tombstone Jade, Mr. Corpse''s pupils contracted even further.


    "The Earth Burial Tombstone Jade with a red line through the center��you know what this means, don''t you?" the Ksitigarbha King asked as he looked at Mr. Corpse.


    "A red line through the heart of the jade��inescapable doom," Mr. Corpse replied, enunciating each word.


    The surrounding people did not understand what this meant, but they wisely kept silent.


    "Indeed, inescapable doom, but that applies only to others. The Burial Family has its own ways to seek a different path. Everything depends on fate. If you hadn''te here, I would have hidden this Tombstone Jade in a secret ce, preventing anyone else fromying a finger on it. But you are the head of the Burial Family, so I feel more at ease entrusting it to you. Burial��the path of life and death. If I survive this catastrophe, I am willing to return under themand of the Burial Family," the Ksitigarbha King said solemnly.


    Mr. Corpse shook his head. "I can keep the Tombstone Jade and even nurture it for you, but the disaster is yours to handle. If you survive, then you can decide what to do."


    "Understood," the Ksitigarbha King nodded.


    The Ksitigarbha King did not insist further, understanding that Mr. Corpse was not someone easily deceived.


    After parting ways with the Ksitigarbha King, the group returned to the grand hall.


    The protective formation was reactivated, and several zombies had already ced the coffin on the floor of the hall.


    "Saint King, with the Ksitigarbha King handing over his Tombstone Jade and facing numerous cmities, he shouldn''t pose a threat to us. I was considering finding a secluded ce, but it seems there''s no ce more secluded than here. I''ll perform the ritual right here," Mr. Corpse said.


    "Alright."


    Mr. Corpse continued to use a brush dipped in gold liquid to draw corpse runes throughout the hall, while Zhong Shan found a quiet chamber and entered a state of mild seclusion. He swallowed the Supreme Demon, and as a vast amount of energy was converted by the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, it surged through Zhong Shan''s body.


    Great Immortal, Fifth Heaven!


    "It really is a monster of the Ancestor Immortal realm! If only there were more of them," Zhong Shan mused.


    Of course, others would have been speechless if they knew what Zhong Shan was thinking. After all, who else could devour an Ancestor Immortal and still not be satisfied?


    A dayter.


    The floor of the grand hall, along with the space above it, was covered in countless corpse runes drawn by Mr. Corpse. The scene was incredibly eerie, with the purple coffin floating at the center of the runes.


    While the others waited patiently, Mr. Corpse approached the giant coffin and reached out to retrieve the still-beating heart.


    "Thump, thump, thump..."


    The heart, held firmly in Mr. Corpse''s hand, continued to throb, exuding an eerie and malevolent aura. Luo Xingchen and Nangong Sheng watched intently, their eyes unblinking. The scene before them was disturbingly strange, for the heart in Mr. Corpse''s hand was clearly not some magical artifact��yet, how could a lifeless object pulsate so persistently?


    Mr. Corpse slowly ced the blood-red heart into the coffin.


    "Whoosh��"


    It was as if a sudden gust of wind had arisen, as streams of visible ck mist began to converge towards the purple coffin. Inside the coffin, a ck vortex became increasingly distinct, swirling relentlessly around the blood-red heart. Mr. Corpse swiftly closed the coffin lid.


    As soon as the lid was sealed, the coffin seemed to draw in the ck mist even more rapidly, funneling it into the coffin''s interior.


    "What is this?" Luo Xingchen muttered as he reached out to touch the air.


    However, it seemed as though the ck mist didn''t truly exist in the physical realm.


    Outside the pce where the group was gathered, in the distance, the Ksitigarbha King had been meditating with his eyes closed. Suddenly, his eyes snapped open, and he looked towards the direction of Zhong Shan''s pce in surprise.


    "Aura? A Burial Family corpse? This generation''s corpse is truly extraordinary! Could the Burial Family really re-emerge into the world because of him? If that were to happen, I wonder what expressions those Saints would have!" The Ksitigarbha King mused with a peculiar smile.


    The ck mist continued to surge into the purple coffin for nearly ten days before it began to gradually dissipate, fading until it was barely visible.


    Mr. Corpse gently opened the coffin. Zhong Shan peered inside and saw that the heart was still beating incessantly. However, now it was enveloped in a ck mist. This mist wasn''t just a formless mass; it had taken on a vague, human-like shape.


    Mr. Corpse''s face lit up with joy!


    With a wave of his hand, he closed the coffin once more.


    Then, he sat cross-legged, his eyes closing as he began to chant in a mesmerizing incantation. Suddenly, a thin fissure appeared at the center of his forehead.


    The fissure was pitch ck, and it began to emit a powerful suction force, directly aimed at the purple coffin. Gradually, the purple coffin began to shrink under this force, until it was finally absorbed into Mr. Corpse''s forehead.


    The fissure on his forehead sealed shut, as if it had never been there.


    Yet, the disappearance of the purple coffin proved that what Zhong Shan had witnessed was no illusion.


    "A fissure on the forehead?" Zhong Shan''s eyelid twitched. What kind of technique was this?


    Mr. Corpse, now sitting cross-legged once more, suddenly had a stream of ck mist surge directly into the fissure on his forehead. The aura flowed into him, causing his body to emit a faint glow.


    The others stood guard around him.


    Three dayster, the ck mist finally dissipated.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    A series of muffled sounds echoed from Mr. Corpse''s body as he finally opened his eyes. The moment they opened, a sharp gleam shot out before his gaze returned to normal.


    "You... you''ve reached the Great Immortal realm?" Luo Xingchen remarked with a peculiar expression.


    He had once thought himself to be the strongest among the Saint King''spanions, but over time, he realized that none of Zhong Shan''s followers could be measured by ordinary standards��they were all incredibly enigmatic.


    The ability to seal even a peerless demon at the Ancestor Immortal realm with a casual nce, like Mr. Corpse''s sinister arts, was beyond what he couldprehend.


    Mr. Corpse stood up and nodded, saying little more.


    "Your forehead...?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "My forehead is the greatest tomb in the world! The coffin has found the perfect resting ce, and the tomb has absorbed some of its aura. My cultivation will now progress rapidly; it won''t be long before I reach the Ancient Immortal realm and can further assist the Saint King!" Mr. Corpse replied with a hint of satisfaction.


    Luo Xingchen, standing nearby, was left speechless. "It won''t take long" to reach the Ancient Immortal realm? Since when did cultivation be so simple? He had put in immense effort to reach his level, despite his extraordinary talent and time maniption abilities. But for Mr. Corpse, it was just a matter of time?


    Then again, Luo Xingchen thought of Tiao in Lingxiao Heavenly Court, and he was no longer so bewildered. That Tiao had reached the Ancient Immortal realm from the Celestial Immortal realm in just an hour.


    "Excellent!" Zhong Shan said with immense satisfaction.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1002: Extermination

    <h4>Chapter 1002: Extermination</h4>


    In the Blood Pool of Evil Spirits, at Zhong Shan''s residence.


    Everyone gathered around Zhong Shan as he gently pointed with his right hand. Before him, a mirror-like surface appeared, though it was slightly blurred.


    Within the mirror, a man dressed in white robes could be seen. The man had his eyes closed, seemingly calcting something. Suddenly, his eyes snapped open.


    "Boom!"


    The mirror shattered, and the image within it abruptly vanished.


    "It''s Zilu!" Luo Xingchen eximed, looking towards Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nodded, "Indeed, it is Zilu. He still harbors a deep grudge from ourst encounter. It''s clear that he has been divining my whereabouts. It seems that our location was leaked by the people outside the Yan Luo Hall more than half a month ago."


    "Saint King, what should we do now?" Luo Xingchen asked, concern evident in his voice.


    "Since Zilu is still fixated on his grudge, he won''t let this go easily. We should leave this ce as soon as possible," Zhong Shan replied with certainty.


    "Understood!"


    Everyone nodded in agreement and began to step out of the pce.


    As Nangong Sheng began to retract the protective formation and was about to notify the Ksitigarbha King, a powerful and overwhelming aura suddenly erupted from the direction of the Ksitigarbha King''s pce.


    Almost simultaneously, the Ksitigarbha King stepped out of his pce.


    He looked up at the sky and took a deep breath.


    "They''ve finally arrived," the Ksitigarbha King said softly, his voice calm but his eyes shing with a sharp intensity.


    With a single step, the Ksitigarbha King appeared in front of Zhong Shan and the others.


    "Is the cmity upon you?" Mr. Corpse asked.


    The Ksitigarbha King nodded, "Inescapable doom, I have no choice but to confront it head-on. But before that, there is one thing I would like to ask of you, Saint King Zhong."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan responded, intrigued.


    "As this cmity approaches, I may be forced into a dire situation, and my influence could be utterly destroyed. This jade slip, I implore you to deliver it to the Jade Emperor. Once in his hands, the Jade Emperor will be grateful to you," the Ksitigarbha King said, suddenly producing a jade slip.


    The jade slip was sealed with a restrictive spell, clearly a private message intended for the Jade Emperor.


    Zhong Shan studied the Ksitigarbha King for a moment before nodding, "I happen to be heading to the Heavenly Court to visit an old friend. I will see to it that this is delivered."


    "Thank you," the Ksitigarbha King nodded.


    After handing the jade slip to Zhong Shan, the Ksitigarbha King''s figure blurred and vanished, and his presence in the Blood Pool of Evil Spirits disappeared entirely.


    "The Ksitigarbha King has left," Nian Youyou noted.


    "Yes, we should leave as well!" Zhong Shan quickly responded.


    The group followed Zhong Shan, swiftly exiting through the entrance from which they hade.


    As they emerged from the Blood Pool of Evil Spirits, an overwhelming aura surged towards them, pressing down like a tidal wave.


    The group did not immediately leave the great hall but instead observed the outside world from within.


    Outside, fierce winds howled as three towering pirs of the Heavenly Dao appeared, their presence so oppressive that it seemed to choke the very breath from all living beings.


    "What an intense aura!" Nangong Sheng remarked in astonishment.


    In the distance, the Ksitigarbha King stood within one of the blood-colored pirs of the Heavenly Dao, facing two other pirs.


    Within each of these pirs stood a figure, radiating an aura of overwhelming power.


    A thick aura of chaos emanated from one of the figures, while the other exuded an overwhelming allure that seemed to draw one into an irresistible enchantment.


    "Magu? Baosi?" Zhong Shan immediately recognized the aura of endless seduction as that of Baosi.


    Magu, once the most beautiful woman in the world, had her previously disfigured face restored. She now appeared stunningly beautiful and bewitching, so much so that just one nce could cause someone to fall into a deep, unshakable infatuation. What a peerless enchantress she was! However, the hollow expression in her eyes revealed the tragic truth��she had been entirely obliterated, transformed into a puppet, a soulless, emotionless humanoid puppet.


    A puppet of the Mitian Saint?


    Within the two Heavenly Dao pirs stood Chimei, embodying deception and allure.


    The Mitian Saint seemed to be recreating the great formation of old, the Four Ghost Heavenly Dao Formation.


    With Chimei and Baosi already in ce, were they now seeking the third?


    Wang��the Earth Burial Wraith?


    Was the Ksitigarbha King the third "Wang"?


    "Boom��"


    A deafening explosion shook the heavens and the earth as Yan Luo City was once again struck by a massive impact, this time far more powerful than before. Previously, it had been the battle of Ancient Immortals, but now, Ancestor Immortals and even a Saint were involved.


    Although the Mitian Saint himself did not appear in the sky, the sheer power of Chimei and Baosi was on full disy.


    Under the relentless assaults, the sky tore open with countless ck holes, space itself trembled, and all of Yan Luo City faced an unprecedented onught.


    Tidal waves surged, and everything was ground into dust.


    "Mitian Saint? So, he really hasn''t descended into the underworld!" Luo Xingchen remarked.


    "Sacred beings of the yang world rarely descend into the underworld unless absolutely necessary. Mitian is trying to force the Ksitigarbha King out of the underworld with these two Ancestor Immortal puppets," Nangong Sheng exined.


    Zhong Shan shook his head. "Saints may be reluctant to cross realms, but that doesn''t mean they can''t. The Ksitigarbha King is facing an inescapable doom��Mitian will undoubtedlye down."


    "The Saint King is right!" The others nodded in agreement.


    In a battle of Ancestor Immortals, especially one involving a Saint, Zhong Shan and hispanions were in no position to intervene. They could only stand in the grand hall, observing from afar.


    As the battle raged on, the distance between thebatants and the hall grew, leaving the structure intact.


    The fight continued for three full hours.


    The Ksitigarbha King neither won nor lost. Chimei and Baosi were formidable opponents, and under the Saint''s control, they unleashed unprecedented power.


    Perhaps the Mitian Saint grew impatient.


    Suddenly, a massive beam of white light descended from the sky, illuminating the entire world. The distant battle came to an abrupt halt.


    "Mitian Saint, you''ve finally arrived!" came the cold voice of the Ksitigarbha King from afar.


    Sure enough, the Mitian Saint, who appeared as a youthful figure, suddenly materialized beside Chimei and Baosi.


    Countless onlookers gazed up at the sky.


    A battle between a Saint and the Ksitigarbha King? The spectators were bewildered, their breaths held in suspense.


    With the appearance of the Mitian Saint, a vast and oppressive force pressed down on the very souls of all present. A Saint represented the heavens, an entity beyond defiance.


    At that moment, Zhong Shan suddenly felt the weight of a piercing gaze upon him.


    He turned his head, his gaze sharpening as he looked into the distance.


    Everyone around Zhong Shan turned to look in the same direction.


    "Zilu?" Luo Xingchen raised an eyebrow.


    "This is bad. While the Ksitigarbha King was here, he might have been able to hold off Zilu, but now?" Nangong Sheng''s face showed a trace of concern.


    "Close the doors!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Bang!" Nangong Sheng immediately shut the pce doors.


    Zilu was approaching? The Ksitigarbha King would undoubtedly struggle against the Mitian Saint, and once the Ksitigarbha King was defeated, Zilu would likely turn his attention to them.


    Everyone looked at Zhong Shan, waiting for his decision.


    Reaching into his robe, Zhong Shan retrieved a ck book��<strong>the Book of Life and Death</strong>.


    The book was extremely mysterious. Over the past few days, no matter what Zhong Shan tried, he could only open a single page. On that page, there was arge "Life" character on the left and arge "Death" character on the right.


    "Zhong Shan, give it a try. I''ve heard from the Wuxiang Saint King that this Book of Life and Death can determine a person''s fate��it''s a secret tome of the Curse Masters. Even though we can only open this one page and don''t fully understand its workings, writing Zilu''s name might be better than doing nothing," Nian Youyou suggested.


    Zhong Shan nodded, "That was my thought as well."


    Taking out a brush, Zhong Shan began to write under the "Death" character��<strong>Zilu</strong>.


    As he wrote the name, Zhong Shan immediately felt a massive pressure, causing even his steadfast heart to tremble slightly.


    "How do you feel?" Nian Youyou asked curiously.


    "I''m not sure��it feels strange," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head as he put the Book of Life and Death away.


    While Zhong Shan felt uneasy, Zilu, who was observing the battle from afar, also felt a sudden, inexplicable weight on his heart.


    For some reason, an oppressive feeling had suddenly arisen within Zilu.


    The battle at Mount Shengsi had revealed Zhong Shan''s presence in the Four Great Continents, and Zilu''s first instinct was to capture Zhong Shan and avenge the old grudge. However, Zhong Shan had vanished shortly thereafter, only to resurface recently in Yan Luo City, where he had entered the Blood Pool of Evil Spirits. Zilu had rushed there without dy.


    He had been in the area for two days, but due to the presence of the Ksitigarbha King, he had held back from making any moves. Then, just moments ago, the Ksitigarbha King had emerged to battle the two Ancestor Immortals, and the Mitian Saint had unexpectedly descended into the underworld, piquing Zilu''s curiosity.


    At the same time, Zilu had spotted Zhong Shan and his group in the distance!


    As Zilu sneered coldly, Zhong Shan suddenly shut the pce doors in the distance.


    In that moment, the oppressive feeling in Zilu''s heart intensified.


    No longer concerned with watching the distant battle, Zilu quickly found a secluded spot to meditate.


    "A curse? Someone is actually trying to curse me?" Zilu muttered as he continuously performed incantations on himself.


    Yet, no matter what he tried, the curse clung to him like a shadow, refusing to dissipate.


    "Boom!"


    In the distance, the Ksitigarbha King engaged the Mitian Saint, but unfortunately, the Saint''s power far surpassed that of an Ancestor Immortal.


    With a mere wave of his hand, a massive ck hole engulfed the two of them.


    The ck hole flickered, a sign of the fierce battle taking ce within.


    After a single incense stick''s time, the ck hole slowly dissipated.


    The Ksitigarbha King was gone.


    Only the Mitian Saint remained, who casually reached out and retrieved the humanoid puppets, Chimei and Baosi.


    With a wave of his sleeve, the Mitian Saint disappeared from sight.


    The battle between Ancestor Immortals, seemingly concluded just like that, had left the vast Yan Luo City in ruins. Only the few pces near the Yan Luo Hall remained standing.


    Countless ghost cultivators were crushed to dust, and those who survived were filled with terror.


    Inside the Yan Luo Hall, King Yan Luo, Meng Po, Judge Lu, and the others trembled in fear.


    The Ksitigarbha King? The Ksitigarbha King, whom they regarded as omnipotent, was just... dead? Taken down by a Saint with a simple gesture?


    And he was an Ancestor Immortal!


    No one dared leave the hall for a long time. They exchanged nces, unsure how to express their current emotions.


    "Zhong Shan,e out!"


    As the surviving ghost cultivators remained paralyzed with fear, a deep voice echoed through the heavens.


    "It''s Zilu. Another Ancestor Immortal?" Judge Lu swallowed nervously.


    Meng Po and the others looked up, and sure enough, there was a man in white standing in the void, coldly staring down at one of the pces.


    "Isn''t that the entrance to the Blood Pool of Evil Spirits?" Judge Lu immediately recognized the location.


    "Zilu? Ancestor Immortal Zilu? Does he have a grudge against Zhong Shan?" A glimmer of excitement shed in King Yan Luo''s eyes.


    The remaining ghost cultivators turned their attention to the closed pce.


    "Zilu, do you really intend to exterminate us all?" Zhong Shan''s deep voice rang out from within the distant pce.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1003: The Second Duel with Zilu

    <h4>Chapter 1003: The Second Duel with Zilu</h4>


    "Exterminate you all? The vengeance for Yan Hui, the revenge for Kong Lietian��did you spare even a single one?" Zilu responded coldly.


    It was clear that Zilu was determined to kill. He had traveled all the way from Lujian for one purpose��to annihte Zhong Shan.


    Inside the Yan Luo Hall, King Yan Luo silently cheered, while the others could only doubt Zhong Shan''s chances.


    An Ancestor Immortal��such a being was the pinnacle beneath a Saint. Zhong Shan might have defeated an Ancient Immortal, but before an Ancestor Immortal, it would be nothing short of a death wish. Zhong Shan was doomed.


    "If that''s the case, thene on. Let''s see if you, Zilu, have what it takes! And when I cut you down, I wonder if an even older sage from the Confucian Sect wille to avenge you!" Zhong Shan''s cold voice echoed from the distant hall.


    Upon hearing Zhong Shan''s words, not only Zilu, but all the surrounding cultivators were left in stunned silence.


    "What did Zhong Shan just say? I must not have heard that correctly!" King Yan Luo muttered in disbelief.


    "Zhong Shan said he''s going to kill Zilu!" Judge Lu eagerly echoed.


    "Has Zhong Shan lost his mind?"


    Everyone thought Zhong Shan''s words wereughable, yet no one dared tough out loud at that moment.


    "Boom!"


    With a loud crash, the doors of the hall where Zhong Shan was located were forcefully flung open. Slowly, Zhong Shan and his group emerged.


    There was no escaping this fight. Since that was the case, they might as well give it everything they had.


    "What, you really want to fight me? Didn''t you learn your lesson from the battle at Lingxiao Heavenly Court?" Zilu sneered.


    Zhong Shan walked out, his followers behind him. Though they stood below, their aura of pride made the surrounding cultivators feel as if Zhong Shan embodied an indomitable force.


    Zhong Shan looked at Zilu and said, "I don''t have a deep grudge against the Confucian Sect, but your ignorance has repeatedly deepened our enmity. Remember, if I destroy the Confucian Sect one day, all the me will fall on you!"


    Zhong Shan''s voice was not loud, but it carried a chilling coldness.


    The surroundings fell silent. King Yan Luo and the others had their mouths agape.


    "Is Zhong Shan insane? He said he would destroy the Confucian Sect?" King Yan Luo eximed in disbelief.


    "He did say that! But with Confucius still in the world, who could destroy the Confucian Sect?" Judge Lu marveled.


    "Zhong Shan is far too arrogant!"


    Zilu coldly stared at Zhong Shan, and for some reason, a strange sense of foreboding stirred within him as he heard Zhong Shan''s words.


    "Ignorant fool!" Zilu snapped.


    With that, Zilu raised his hand and struck out at Zhong Shan.


    In the void, a massive white palm print manifested!


    The white palm print whistled as it descended upon Zhong Shan.


    Aside from King Yan Luo, who had a cold smile on his face, the others all shook their heads, clearly thinking that Zhong Shan was as good as dead.


    "Roar��!"


    Suddenly, a strange dragon''s roar erupted from Zhong Shan''s body.


    With the roar, the aura around Zhong Shan surged dramatically. He raised his hand, sending a palm strike towards the sky��<strong>the Heaven-Opening Palm</strong>, unstoppable and all-conquering!


    "Boom!"


    A tremendous explosion followed as the two enormous palm prints collided in mid-air. The space trembled violently once again, but Zhong Shan''s Heaven-Opening Palmpletely neutralized Zilu''s attack.


    Zilu''s eyelid twitched.


    "This isn''t right. The Wind Burial Territory is so far from the Four Great Continents��you shouldn''t be able to harness the power of the Great Zheng World from here. How did you do it?" Zilu asked, disbelief evident in his voice.


    At this moment, a massive golden divine dragon coiled protectively around Zhong Shan, embodying the true dragon''s aura as he channeled the power of the Great Zheng Empire. Although the vast distance should have prevented him from drawing on the power of his empire, Zhong Shan was no ordinary ruler��his safety was paramount, especially in the Four Great Continents, where countless powerful beings roamed.


    The Great Zheng Empire''s fate was somewhat uniquepared to other sacred courts. It was guarded by two neen-wed golden dragons. One dragon remained in the Lingxiao Heavenly Court, gathering and safeguarding the empire''s fate, while the other imbued Zhong Shan with boundless strength. These two dragonsplemented each other perfectly; as long as the golden dragon in Lingxiao Heavenly Court thrived, the one within Zhong Shan would never run dry.


    "Do you want to test your luck?" Zhong Shan taunted with a cold smile.


    As he spoke, heunched himself towards Zilu. Zilu''s expression changed slightly, but his curiosity was piqued beyond measure. It wasn''t unheard of to leave a life-bound treasure in the clouds of fate, allowing one to draw upon their empire''s power from a distance��but this typically worked only across one or two territories at most. Yet Zhong Shan had done so from much farther away!


    Extending his hand, Zilu met Zhong Shan''s palm directly, choosing to probe his strength. This time, Zilu didn''t unleash a massive palm strike but instead allowed his palm to meet Zhong Shan''s. Upon contact, Zilu seemed to immediately gauge Zhong Shan''s capabilities.


    "Is that all?" Zilu sneered.


    In that instant, Zilu understood the situation and assessed Zhong Shan''s strength. Despite the protection of the true dragon, Zhong Shan''s power barely matched that of someone who had just entered the Ancestor Immortal realm��far below Zilu''s own level.


    "Is that so?" Zhong Shan retorted with a cold smile.


    Suddenly, a massive cloud of peach-colored mist appeared in the sky, enveloping bothbatants in the blink of an eye.


    Zilu was momentarily surprised, then his expression darkened as he realized that the peach-colored energy was extremely aggressive, bizarrely prating his defenses and invading his body.


    "You''re courting death!" Zilu snarled.


    With a surge of strength, he attempted to fling Zhong Shan away.


    The force was immense, and Zhong Shan was indeed thrown back.


    But in that split second, Zilu caught a glimpse of Zhong Shan''s eye turning blue.


    <strong>The Deadly Heavenly Eye��Activated!</strong>


    A beam of blue light shot directly into Zilu''s body.


    "Boom!"


    Zhong Shan was sent flying by the impact.


    With a flick of his sleeve, the peach-colored mist dissipated. But by then, Zilu''s expression had grown extremely grim.


    Zilu realized he had made a critical error��never allow an enemy to get close. But his curiosity had led him to forget this vital principle, and now it seemed he had fallen into Zhong Shan''s trap.


    Fortunately, he wasn''t injured.


    Though unhurt, Zilu''s mood was now thoroughly foul.


    Below, King Yan Luo and the others hadn''t noticed anything out of the ordinary, but Zilu knew better. He was all too familiar with that blue light��the infamous eye technique of Zhong Shan, known as the Deadly Heavenly Eye, which had a fearsome reputation even back in the Fengzhong Territory.


    It seemed that Zilu had indeed been affected by Zhong Shan''s eye technique. And what was that peach-colored energy?


    With a wave of his hand, Zilu''s figure shifted, ready to enter the realm of the Heavenly Dao, intending to use its power to expel the negative effects now guing him.


    But just as Zilu was about to merge with the Heavenly Dao, his mind suddenly wavered, and he failed to achieve the connection!


    It had arrived��the misfortune?


    Zilu suddenly felt a surge of unbearable heat within him.


    What was this? Heat?


    At first, Zilu assumed it was a negative effect from Zhong Shan''s Deadly Heavenly Eye, but something didn''t add up. Years ago, Ancestor Xue Mei had also been affected by the Deadly Heavenly Eye, yet he had managed to merge with the Heavenly Dao afterward.


    Why couldn''t he calm his mind? Without inner calm, how could he attune to the Heavenly Dao and merge with it?


    "He can''t enter the Heavenly Dao!" Zhong Shan shouted as hended.


    "Open!" Nian Youyou suddenlymanded, her gaze locked on Zilu.


    A hum echoed through the air as a golden light swept over Zilu, turning his garments into a golden robe. At the same time, a strange energy began to frantically invade his body.


    This is bad!


    Panicking, Zilu quickly reached for his Spring and Autumn Tome.


    As soon as the tome appeared, countless words materialized in the air, enveloping and protecting Zilu.


    Zilu was determined to expel the negative energy within him.


    "Shoot!"


    Luo Xingchen pulled back on his bow and released a blood-red arrow straight at Zilu!


    "Boom!"


    The blood-red arrow tore through a multitude of words, ultimately striking the Spring and Autumn Tome.


    "An Ancestor Immortal artifact?" Zilu''s face darkened.


    Finally, Zilu realized he had made a grave mistake��he had grossly underestimated this group of so-called "insignificant figures."


    By now, Zhong Shan hadunched himself into the air once more, his hands shaped like an axe as he descended upon Zilu.


    "First Stance of Heaven-Opening!"


    With a thunderous roar, a colossal axe materialized in the sky, shing down toward Zilu with unparalleled ferocity.


    The air trembled violently as the giant axe created thin ck cracks in the fabric of space.


    Zilu''s hands turned golden as he focused on expelling the negative effects inside him, leaving him unable to dodge. The Spring and Autumn Tome unfurled in front of him to block the attack.


    "Boom!"


    The powerful spatial ripples that had been generated during the Ksitigarbha King''s earlier battle reappeared.


    The sky rippled with numerous distortions, and the ensuing explosion reduced Yan Luo City to rubble, sparing only a few structures around the Yan Luo Hall.


    King Yan Luo shrank back in fear. Was Zhong Shan some kind of monster?


    All around, cultivators held their breath, retreating as far as possible.


    "Boom!" The Spring and Autumn Tome bore the brunt of the attack, but Zilu felt the impact reverberate through his body, causing his blood to churn violently. The negative effects from the Deadly Heavenly Eye exacerbated the turmoil within him, nearly causing him to vomit blood. He barely managed to contain the chaotic energy, but the heat in his body only grew more intense.


    "Shoot! Shoot! Shoot!"


    Luo Xingchen''s blood-red arrows continued to fly, each one further frustrating Zilu.


    "Roar!"


    Zilu was furious��he never imagined that these "ants" could push him to such a state.


    His eyes shed with murderous intent as he red at Luo Xingchen.


    "First Stance of Heaven-Opening!"


    Zhong Shan''s axe came crashing down again. But Zilu, his eyes filled with hatred, ignored the iing strike. He was determined to eliminate Zhong Shan''s subordinates first, then deal with Zhong Shan himself.


    The Spring and Autumn Tome blocked the Heaven-Opening strike, while Zilu sped towards Luo Xingchen and the others in an instant, intent on wiping them out.


    "Shoot!"


    Luo Xingchen unleashed his ultimate technique, <strong>Nine Stars in a Row</strong>, firing nine consecutive arrows in a straight line at Zilu.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!" Each arrow struck with tremendous force, and the ninth arrow finally broke through Zilu''s defenses, leaving a deep gash on his shoulder.


    "Skybane Chess Formation!" Nangong Sheng stomped the ground, causing thousands of giant stones to rise up, forming a defensive array around the group.


    But Zilu was far too powerful��how could the stone formation stop him?


    In the blink of an eye, Zilu broke through the stone defenses and appeared before them.


    By this time, Nian Youyou had already copsed from the strain of using the Golden Eye technique. Under the pressure of Zilu''s overwhelming aura, she was powerless to resist.


    Luo Xingchen, too, had lost the advantage of long-range attacks with his Xuanyuan Bow. The specter of doom loomed over them.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1004: Defeating Zilu, the Emergence of a Fearsome Reputation

    <h4>Chapter 1004: Defeating Zilu, the Emergence of a Fearsome Reputation</h4>


    Although Zilu couldn''t merge fully with the Heavenly Dao, it wasn''t difficult for him to wield its power!


    As he charged forward, a terrifying pressure descended upon everyone.


    "Crash!"


    The grand hall leading to the Blood Pool of Evil Spirits copsed with a thunderous roar. Nangong Sheng''s Skybane Chess Formation was utterly powerless against Zilu. With a wave of his golden arm, a terrifying force descended from the heavens��the power of the Heavenly Dao!


    Under the Heavenly Dao''s power, there was no room for resistance; everyone was immobilized.


    Mr. Corpse couldn''t move, but in an instant, he managed to summon hundreds of zombies to shield their group. Nian Youyou, already weakened, was unable to resist and suffered severe injuries under the immense pressure. Nangong Sheng and Mr. Corpse both spat out mouthfuls of blood from the strain.


    Ancestor Immortal Zilu was far too powerful��his killing intent alone was enough to render them immobile.


    "Time Reversal!"


    Luo Xingchen shouted.


    The overwhelming pressure abruptly ceased.


    Time maniption! Zilu had never anticipated that Luo Xingchen could reverse time.


    He had been too careless, far too careless!


    Luo Xingchen, pushing himself to the limit, used the momentary pause to his advantage. The pressure around him dissipated briefly, allowing him to appear right in front of Zilu. cing his palm on Zilu''s chest, he shouted, "Reverse!"


    The energies Zilu was expelling shed violently with the reverse flow of energy Luo Xingchen had forced into him.


    "Boom!"


    With all the negative effects exacerbated within Zilu''s body, a deafening explosion reverberated as chaos erupted within him. Zilu, overwhelmed by the internal turmoil, coughed up a mouthful of blood.


    "Argh!"


    Despite having considered countless possibilities, Zilu had never imagined he would end up in such a dire situation!


    "Explode!" Luo Xingchen, eyes wide, poured all his remaining strength into the attack.


    "Impudent wretch! You dare?"


    Zilu, now sustaining further internal injuries, swung his golden arm, unleashing a terrifying force of the Heavenly Dao.


    "Boom!"


    Luo Xingchen was violently mmed into the ground, embedded deep beneath the earth, unable to move!


    Mr. Corpse and Nangong Sheng, both severely injured, were sitting on the ground, blood streaming from their mouths, while a horde of zombies surrounded and protected Nian Youyou and the two men.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    In the sky above, countless bolts of lightning rained down on Zilu��an assault from Nangong Sheng''s Skybane Chess Formation. Although it didn''t cause significant damage, it left Zilu in a desperate state, his body scorched, blood pouring from his mouth, his arms turning to gold, and an unbearable heat raging within him. He was gravely injured.


    Zilu had never been in such a pitiful state before!


    But worse was yet toe. On the other side, Zhong Shan''s Heaven-Opening Strike finally broke through the formidable defenses of the Spring and Autumn Tome.


    "Awuu!"


    The ferocious Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, caring little for the consequences, lunged forward and swallowed the enormous tome in one bite.


    Panic surged through Zilu as he tried to reestablish his connection with the Spring and Autumn Tome. The tome wriggled desperately in the grip of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, but the monstrous tail refused to let go.


    Endless sword energy erupted forth��four swords of absolute annihtion from the Four Swords of Immortal ying aimed at Zhong Shan, slicing through the air towards Zilu.


    Zilu was consumed with rage!


    Zilu never imagined the battle would turn out like this. Anger surged within him, and with bloodshot eyes, he ignored everything else and unleashed another golden hand strike towards Nian Youyou and the others. Even if he couldn''t kill Zhong Shan, he was determined to annihte this group first.


    As Zilu struck, his eyes burned with rage. The terrifying power of the Heavenly Dao surged down like a torrential flood.


    From afar:


    "Die!" Zhong Shan roared, unleashing the Heaven-Opening Strike once more. Simultaneously, the Four Swords of Immortal ying descended upon Zilu with devastating force.


    The sheer power of the attacks caused the void to tremble violently, distorting the space around them.


    "Boom!"


    The void quaked, obscuring the scene from outside observers. When the tremors finally subsided, Zilu was revealed once more��missing an arm. The Heaven-Opening Strike had severed his limb, and his abdomen had been pierced by one of the Immortal ying Swords, leaving him grievously wounded.


    His severed arm was clenched in the jaws of the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, which stared at Zilu before swallowing the arm whole.


    Zhong Shan''s heart was filled with fear as he realized Zilu''s attack had been aimed directly at Nian Youyou, Mr. Corpse, and Nangong Sheng. How had they fared?


    To his amazement, they were still alive. Although Mr. Corpse''s zombies had all exploded, using the st to mitigate Zilu''s attack, the group had managed to survive. Despite being severely injured, the three of themy there, battered but intact, their faces pale with the strain.


    Alive? How had they survived such a powerful strike?


    "Chirp chirp chirp...!"


    A familiar voice suddenly called out. A small blue furball stood before the three, waving its tiny limbs, tears welling up in its eyes as it emitted pitiful cries. Then, with a dramatic flop, it fell back as if injured, clearly seeking sympathy from Zhong Shan.


    It was Nian Youyou''s ancestral beast��the one Zhong Shan had helped her capture in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss in the Small Thousand World. It had been absent for some time, only to appear at thest critical moment.


    "Xiao Qing, you''ve done well! I''ll reward youter!" Zhong Shan shouted excitedly.


    Relieved that hispanions were safe, Zhong Shan turned his gaze, now filled with fury, toward the badly injured Zilu.


    At this moment, Zilu had suffered unimaginable damage. How could he have anticipated that this group of "ants" would be so formidable? That he would be wounded to this extent?


    His arm was severed, his body burned with inexplicable heat, his internal organs were severely damaged, misfortune clung to him like a curse, and his Spring and Autumn Tome had been destroyed, leaving his mind in disarray.


    And now, Zhong Shan was charging at him with renewed ferocity.


    <strong>Heaven-Opening Strike!</strong>


    <strong>The Four Swords of Immortal ying!</strong>


    "Boom!"


    A powerful spatial shockwave surged towards Zilu.


    Had he been at full strength, Zilu wouldn''t have considered this a threat. But now, it felt like the harbinger of his demise.


    In a fit of rage and desperation, Zilu made the only choice left to him��he turned to flee, his figure shooting away into the distance.


    But Zhong Shan''s power had already locked onto him!


    "Boom!"


    In the distance, a small ck hole formed, apanied by a pained scream from Zilu as his figure shot away into the distance.


    An Ancestor Immortal, especially one as powerful as Zilu, was nearly impossible to stop once they decided to flee, even while heavily injured. Zilu, now bearing grievous wounds, managed to escape the battlefield, leaving the fight behind.


    The battle was finally over!


    Zhong Shan immediately turned to check on hispanions'' injuries. At the same time, within the Yan Luo Hall, all the onlookers trembled with fear, barely daring to breathe.


    With a wave of his hand, Zhong Shan summoned Luo Xingchen from the deep pit where he had fallen. Luo Xingchen was pale, barely clinging to life.


    Zhong Shan then gestured with his sleeve, and he, along with the others and the ancestral beast Xiao Qing, vanished from the scene.


    Silence lingered around the Yan Luo Hall for a long time. Nearly an hour passed before the doors slowly creaked open again.


    Judge Lu stepped out first, cautiously surveying the surroundings. "King Yan, they''ve all left!"


    Supported by his attendants, King Yan Luo slowly emerged, though his heart was still gripped by lingering fear. It wasn''t just him��everyone else felt the same.


    "Too powerful... Zilu, an Ancestor Immortal, was almost killed by Zhong Shan and ended up fleeing in such a miserable state?" Meng Po murmured, swallowing hard.


    "King Yan, what about the memorial we were preparing to send to the Heavenly Court?" Judge Lu asked in a low voice.


    "What memorial?" King Yan Luo, still shaken, didn''t immediately understand.


    "The one we discussed earlier, to report Zhong Shan''s rampage in the underworld to the Jade Emperor, requesting that he send heavenly soldiers and generals to capture Zhong Shan," Judge Lu reminded him quietly.


    Capture Zhong Shan? The others looked at Judge Lu as if he had a death wish.


    "Get out, get out of my sight!" King Yan Luo shouted, suddenly snapping out of his daze and berating Judge Lu.


    Meanwhile, the ghost cultivators who had retreated to watch from a safe distance were equally shocked. None of them had expected Zhong Shan to be so incredibly strong.


    During the battle at Sacred Corpse Mountain, only those with keen interest knew of Zhong Shan''s prowess. His disruption of King Yan''s wedding and the defeat of an Ancient Immortal had already spread his name across the Four Great Continents. But after today''s battle, everyone would recognize Zhong Shan as a fearsome figure.


    These people were monsters!


    In a secluded valley, Zhong Shan examined the condition of hispanions.


    Mr. Corpse, Nangong Sheng, and Nian Youyou were all severely injured, unable to move. The ancestral beast, Xiao Qing, was also in a weakened state, letting out pitiful cries.


    As for Luo Xingchen, he was in the worst condition, seemingly on the brink of death.


    "Saint King, I''m a cripple now. My strength is gone, my body is about to copse, and my divine abilities have been shattered. I have nothing left to ask for, except that you... please take care of��" Luo Xingchen struggled to speak.


    "Don''t talk!" Zhong Shan immediately silenced him.


    "I''ll heal you all right now. I''ll be weak for a few days afterward, so protect me during that time!" Zhong Shan instructed.


    Without waiting for a response, Zhong Shan closed his eyes. When he reopened his left eye, it waspletely blood-red. The others, exhausted and injured, watched him intently.


    "Fortune Eye, activate!" Zhong Shanmanded softly.


    A burst of red light erupted from his left eye, enveloping the four people and the ancestral beast in the corner.


    As the red light surrounded them, Zhong Shan grew visibly weaker, staggering as he made his way to a corner, where he sat down cross-legged and promptly lost consciousness.


    While Zhong Shan fell into a deep slumber, the others stared in disbelief. The red light was infusing them with boundless energy, rapidly healing their injuries. Even the shattered sapphire on Luo Xingchen''s forehead began to regenerate, growing stronger than before.


    Expressions of astonishment spread across their faces, and even Xiao Qing couldn''t stop chirping excitedly.


    In the Zhuanlun Territory, in Changjing, Zhong Shan had suddenly gone into seclusion again. Having witnessed this before, his ministers were not concerned.


    Ten dayster, the gates of the Immortal Hall opened, and the Saint King emerged!


    At the same time, Zhong Shan''s true body also awoke fully.


    Zhong Shan didn''t immediately open his eyes. Instead, he focused inward, sensing the changes within himself. Having devoured the Spring and Autumn Tome, his cultivation had advanced another level.


    <strong>Great Immortal, Sixth Heaven!</strong>


    He breathed a sigh of relief before slowly opening his eyes.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1005: Another Encounter with N眉 Qinghui

    <h4>Chapter 1005: Another Encounter with N�� Qinghui</h4>


    "Thump, thump, thump!"


    As soon as Zhong Shan opened his eyes, he saw the little blue furball, Xiao Qing, hopping merrily from his left knee to his right, then back again. It was ying around with great enthusiasm, bouncing with joy.


    "Xiao Qing,e here, don''t disturb Zhong Shan!" Nian Youyou''s voice came from a distance.


    The little furball stopped, chirping incessantly in its peculiar way.


    "You''re awake?" Nian Youyou eximed with excitement as she noticed Zhong Shan had regained consciousness.


    At her call, the others who had been guarding the area quickly gathered around Zhong Shan.


    Luo Xingchen, Mr. Corpse, and Nangong Sheng all looked at Zhong Shan with expressions of deep respect and excitement.


    "Saint King, you''re awake!" Luo Xingchen said, his voice filled with admiration.


    Only Luo Xingchen knew the extent of his injuries��his body had been utterly shattered, his soul dispersed, the sapphire in his forehead destroyed, and his ability to control time lost. He had been on the brink of fading from existence. Regret had been unavoidable, but even if he could go back, he knew he would still have fought Zilu with everything he had.


    He had already made his peace, yet somehow, after the Saint King''s eye technique was activated, his injuries began to heal at an astonishing rate. With his own guidance, he had visibly recovered.


    It was incredible! What kind of eye technique was this?


    It seemed this was already the Saint King''s third eye technique! Could one person possess three different eye techniques?


    Luo Xingchen had fully recovered, and so had Mr. Corpse and Nangong Sheng. Their cultivation had even advanced further. Everyone was in awe of the Saint King''s abilities, wondering how many more undisclosed powers he held.


    A Great Immortal��just a Great Immortal��had nearly in an Ancestor Immortal!


    "Are you all right now?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "We''re fine! In fact, our cultivation has all advanced!" they replied immediately.


    "Are you okay?" Nian Youyou asked with concern.


    "I''m fine too," Zhong Shan reassured her.


    The group nodded in relief.


    "Chirp chirp chirp!" Xiao Qing jumped onto Zhong Shan''s shoulder, chirping non-stop.


    The little furball seemed anxious, staring at Zhong Shan with wide eyes, unable to speak but clearly trying to convey something urgently.


    "Alright, let Zhong Shan rest a bit first!" Nian Youyou scolded Xiao Qing lightly.


    "Oh, so you understand what it''s saying?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "Yes, it''s asking you for the reward you promised," Nian Youyou replied with a smile.


    Hearing Nian Youyou''s exnation, the little furball immediately bent over and nodded, looking quiteical.


    A reward? Instead of being upset, Zhong Shanughed. After all, it was thanks to Xiao Qing''s timely intervention that they were all alive. He had indeed promised to reward it.


    "I always keep my word," Zhong Shan said with a grin.


    He reached into his robe and pulled out a small purple wooden box.


    "You''re really going to reward Xiao Qing? That red light earlier already gave it a huge benefit!" Nian Youyou remarked with a chuckle.


    "Chirp chirp chirp!" Xiao Qing chirped in protest at Nian Youyou, then turned to Zhong Shan with a hopeful expression.


    "I know you love to eat merits and fate. I''m sure you''ll like what''s inside this little box," Zhong Shan said as he handed the box to Xiao Qing.


    The little furball eagerly reached out with its tiny arms, grasping the box. The box was twice the size of Xiao Qing, making the scene look especially amusing.


    As everyoneughed, the little furball Xiao Qing skillfully opened the box. The moment the box was opened, a sh of golden light shot out.


    "Chirp chirp chirp...!" Xiao Qing''s chirping gradually turned into a sound of pure bliss.


    Inside the box was none other than a fragment of unimed fate energy, a gift from the Nine-Tailed Princess before the closure of the Fox Realm. Xiao Qing''s eyes narrowed in delight as it gleefully jumped into the box, pulling the lid shut to enjoy its treat in solitude.


    This scene prompted another round ofughter from the group��Xiao Qing was indeed an amusing creature.


    Zhong Shan had been unconscious for ten days. During this time, news of Zhong Shan''s exploits had remained trapped in the underworld because the Ghost Gate had not reopened. While the news couldn''t spread beyond, Zhong Shan''s fearsome reputation had already be well-known throughout the underworld.


    When Zhong Shan and his party arrived at the entrance to the Yellow Springs, the ghost cultivators scattered in fear, clearly aware of Zhong Shan''s terrifying prowess. Defeating an Ancient Immortal was one thing, but nearly killing an Ancestor Immortal? That was an entirely different level of power.


    As Zhong Shan reached the Yellow Springs, King Yan Luo and the others didn''t dare leave the Yan Luo Hall, allowing Zhong Shan and his group to leave without hindrance.


    As for Zilu, he was still recovering from his grievous injuries, far too wounded to retaliate.


    After exiting Fengdu, Zhong Shan and his group headed northeast.


    "This Book of Life and Death doesn''t seem very effective. Why didn''t it affect Zilu?" Nian Youyou asked, puzzled.


    "We''ll need to consult a Curse Master to understand it fully. Fortunately, I know someone who can help. Once we reach the Heavenly Court, we can ask her," Zhong Shan replied.


    "The Heavenly Court? I might not be able to go with you to the Heavenly Court," Nian Youyou said after a moment of thought.


    "Why not?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    Stroking Xiao Qing on her shoulder, Nian Youyou exined, "When you first saw me, Xiao Qing wasn''t with me because I had sent it on an errand."


    "An errand? Is it not finished? I''ll go with you," Zhong Shan offered.


    Biting her lip, Nian Youyou said, "Xiao Qing went to see my master. My master sent a message through Xiao Qing, asking me to meet her at Mount Jiuhua. She said she would take me somewhere afterward."


    "Your master?" Zhong Shan''s expression turned slightly tense.


    "N�� Qinghui," Nian Youyou confirmed.


    N�� Qinghui��Nian Youyou''s master from the Small Thousand World. She had yed a significant role in helping Zhong Shan reach the peak of the Heavenly Extreme Realm after their spiritual confrontation with the Ancient Divine Power. She had also shared an intimate connection with Zhong Shan during that time.


    "Her?" Zhong Shan''s emotions wereplex.


    "Yes, my master doesn''t want me to tell anyone about this. Don''t worry, as soon as I''ve finished my task, I''lle find you. No matter where you are, I''ll find you, and then nothing will ever separate us," Nian Youyou vowed with determination.


    Zhong Shan fell silent.


    "I''ll be quick!" Nian Youyou said, as if afraid Zhong Shan would be upset.


    But Zhong Shan''s silence wasn''t due to Nian Youyou''s departure��it was the thought of facing N�� Qinghui again. How would he handle that?


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded, reassuring Nian Youyou.


    "But how will I find you?" Nian Youyou asked.


    "Once you reach Great Zheng, you''ll find me. Whether in the Zhuanlun Territory in the underworld or the Fengzhong Territory in the living world, Great Zheng will always stand strong," Zhong Shan dered confidently.


    "Alright!" Nian Youyou replied with a smile.


    <strong>Mount Jiuhua!</strong>


    After a short journey, they arrived at Mount Jiuhua. From a distance, they could see a stunning woman standing atop the mountain.


    The woman was veiled, but her extraordinary beauty and alluring presence were unmistakable.


    "Master!" Nian Youyou called out.


    The woman slowly turned around, her eyes holding a hint of a smile. However, when she noticed Zhong Shan standing beside Nian Youyou, her expression stiffened, and aplex emotion flickered in her gaze.


    Zhong Shan waved his hand slightly, signaling Luo Xingchen and the others to give them some space. Understanding the cue, they withdrew, leaving only Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou to approach the woman.


    Nian Youyou flew over to her master, immediately hugging her arm. "Master, I''ve missed you so much!" she teased.


    N�� Qinghui''s voice was somewhat stiff as she responded, "You''re here. Let''s go as soon as you''re ready."


    It was clear that N�� Qinghui was reluctant to speak with Zhong Shan.


    "Master, this is Zhong Shan. You know him!" Nian Youyou reminded her.


    "Alright, I''ll be waiting ahead. Say your goodbyes and thene find me," N�� Qinghui said quickly, almost as if she was trying to avoid Zhong Shan, before turning to fly away.


    "N�� Qinghui!" Zhong Shan suddenly called out.


    Hearing her name, N�� Qinghui paused mid-flight, unsure how to react. After a moment of hesitation, she turned to face Zhong Shan, her eyes showing a hint of stubbornness.


    The two locked eyes, a brief silence hanging between them. Nian Youyou, standing nearby, seemed to sense that something was amiss, her eyes widening in realization.


    "Are you alright?" Zhong Shan asked softly.


    "Alright?" A wave of bitterness surged through N�� Qinghui''s heart. No one could understand the turmoil she was feeling.


    "Whether I''m alright or not has nothing to do with you!" she replied after a brief silence.


    With that, N�� Qinghui bit her lip and flew off into the distance, choosing to wait there rather than face Zhong Shan directly.


    "Xiao Qing, go to my master!" Nian Youyou called out.


    "Chirp chirp chirp?" The little furball tilted its head in confusion but obediently flew over to N�� Qinghui.


    Nian Youyou then flew over to Zhong Shan''s side, her hand resting on his waist. "You and my master, are you... very familiar?" she asked in a small voice.


    Zhong Shan looked at Nian Youyou and gave a wry smile. How was he supposed to exin this? The history between them, involving Ancient Divine Powers and reaching the Heavenly Extreme Realm, wasplicated.


    "Yes, you could say we''re quite familiar," Zhong Shan answered with a bitter smile.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan felt a sharp pain in his side. Instinctively, he was about to counter the attack with his defensive energy, but he quickly realized what was happening and refrained from resisting.


    It was Nian Youyou, pinching him sharply at the waist.


    "Hmph, you old lecher!" Nian Youyou huffed in mock anger.


    Old lecher? Zhong Shan rubbed his nose, somewhat taken aback by the usation. It was the first time anyone had called him that, and he wasn''t sure how to exin the events of the past.


    Unlike others, Nian Youyou, despite her reproach, was still on Zhong Shan''s side. After pinching him, she noticed that he hadn''t resisted at all, and a sense of guilt washed over her. Feeling bad, she started to gently rub the spot where she had pinched him.


    Seeing this, Zhong Shan felt a warm affection in his heart. He reached out and took hold of Nian Youyou''s other hand.


    "If anything like this happens again, tell me beforehand...!" Nian Youyou suddenly said while continuing to rub the spot.


    Though her voice was soft, Zhong Shan was stunned by what she said��it felt like a thunderbolt.


    He stared at Nian Youyou in surprise. "You... you''re not angry?"


    Despite having several queens, Zhong Shan had never been able to fully understand Nian Youyou''s thoughts. Although his queens rarely voiced their discontent, there was always an underlying resistance. But Nian Youyou...?


    "What good would it do to be angry? You''re an emperor. An emperor without many concubines would be a disgrace. I''ve seen this kind of thing often. I''m not going to be like my master and get stuck on it," Nian Youyou said, pouting slightly.


    Zhong Shan couldn''t express the overwhelming feeling in his heart. As he watched Nian Youyou''s lips pout in that endearing way, he couldn''t help himself. He leaned down, and for the first time, Zhong Shan''s lips met Nian Youyou''s.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1006: The Heavenly Court鈥檚 First Great Formation

    <h4>Chapter 1006: The Heavenly Court��s First Great Formation</h4>


    Zhong Shan''s sudden kiss took Nian Youyou by surprise, but it also filled her heart with a warm sweetness. She closed her eyes, savoring the moment, as a tender farewell memento.


    In the distance, Mr. Corpse and the others respectfully turned away, standing guard for Zhong Shan.


    Meanwhile, N�� Qinghui had flown to a distant peak, waiting for Nian Youyou. But as time passed and Nian Youyou did note, the little furball on her shoulder curiously watched in Zhong Shan''s direction.


    "Chirp? Chirp chirp? Chirp chirp chirp? Chirp...!"


    The little furball made strange noises. While N�� Qinghui couldn''t trante itsnguage like Nian Youyou could, she sensed its peculiar behavior and turned to look in the direction it was staring.


    Catching a glimpse, N�� Qinghui''s face stiffened��she saw Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou kissing.


    She quickly turned her head away, no longer looking in that direction.


    Furrowing her brows, N�� Qinghui thought of Zixun, of herself, and of the current situation with Nian Youyou. Her mind was a whirl of confusion, and it took her a while to regain herposure before sighing softly, "What a tangled fate..."


    In the distance, Zhong Shan and Nian Youyou ended their kiss, both smiling gently. Nian Youyou, usually so bold, now showed a rare hint of shyness.


    "I have to go," Nian Youyou said, somewhat hesitantly.


    "Be careful, and once you''re done,e find me," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Okay," Nian Youyou responded, her voice tinged with reluctance.


    As she was about to fly towards N�� Qinghui, she suddenly grinned mischievously and whispered in Zhong Shan''s ear, "I''ll put in a good word for you."


    With that, Nian Youyou, carrying the joy of their kiss, flew off to join N�� Qinghui.


    Zhong Shan watched her go, shaking his head with a smile. "Little minx," he murmured.


    After Nian Youyou and N�� Qinghui disappeared from view, Zhong Shan turned his attention back to Luo Xingchen and the others, who quickly flew over to join him.


    "Saint King!"


    "Let''s go. We''re heading to the Heavenly Court!" Zhong Shan dered.


    The Heavenly Court of the Four Great Continents was a truly extraordinary ce, even grander and more imposing than Zhong Shan''s Lingxiao Heavenly Court. It was vast, immense, and toweringly high.


    High, because parts of the Heavenly Court were even built among the stars, in a realm of profound mystery.


    It was said that the Heavenly Court''s construction was the work of Hongjun himself, but since Hongjun had perished long ago, the truth remained unknown.


    ---


    Half a monthter.


    Zhong Shan and his entourage arrived outside the Heavenly Court, still not yet in the starry sky. The altitude was roughly three times that of the Lingxiao Heavenly Court in Fengzhong Territory.


    The scene was breathtaking, with clouds swirling around, cranes soaring in the sky, and countless rays of sunlight illuminating the area with a myriad of colors, creating an otherworldly beauty.


    The group flew directly to the entrance of the Southern Heavenly Gate.


    At the gate, arge contingent of silver-armored Heavenly Soldiers stood watch.


    "Halt! State your name and purpose!" one of the silver-armored soldiers called out.


    Standing on the tform before the Southern Heavenly Gate, Zhong Shan responded solemnly, "Zhong Shan of the Great Zheng Sacred Court, here to seek an audience with the Jade Emperor of Haotian Tongming Pce!"


    As soon as Zhong Shan spoke, an aura of authority naturally emanated from him, making it clear he was an individual of significant standing. Luo Xingchen and the others stood behind him, quietly observing the situation.


    For his first visit to the Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan ensured that all the necessary formalities were observed.


    "Zhong Shan?" one of the Heavenly Soldiers'' faces changed as he heard the name.


    A few months ago, during the battle at Sacred Corpse Mountain, there had been rumors about a powerful figure named Zhong Shan. Could this be the same person standing before them?


    The Great Zheng Sacred Court? That was an entity on par with the Heavenly Court itself��a visiting Holy King?


    The Heavenly Soldiers, recognizing the significance, avoided any harshness. After a brief exchange, a minor officer stepped forward to address Zhong Shan.


    With a slight bow, the officer said, "Please wait here for a moment. I will report your arrival, and we will provide you with a response shortly."


    "Very well," Zhong Shan nodded.


    This was standard procedure, and Zhong Shan didn''t mind waiting outside the Southern Heavenly Gate. He knew that meeting Haomeili would have to wait until after he met the Jade Emperor, who was, after all, the ruler of this domain.


    Half an hourter, in one of the Heavenly Court''s grand halls, the Heavenly Soldier who had gone to report Zhong Shan''s arrival stood before another silver-armored man. This man had a fine line across his forehead��an unmistakable mark of the third eye, which only Eng Shen possessed in the Heavenly Court.


    "You''re saying Zhong Shan is at the Southern Heavenly Gate?" Eng Shen narrowed his eyes.


    "Yes, but the Jade Emperor has gone to the Doushuai Pce. The formations around the pce are sealed, so we cannot inform him. Should we invite Zhong Shan into the Heavenly Court and have him stay until the Jade Emperor returns?" the Heavenly Soldier suggested.


    Eng Shen tapped his chair thoughtfully, then smirked. "No need, I will handle this personally."


    "Understood," the Heavenly Soldier quickly replied.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan patiently waited at the Southern Heavenly Gate. Before long, the guard returned, apanied by a silver-armored man��handsome, with a fine line on his forehead. Zhong Shan recognized him immediately; he had seen him before when the Jade Emperor visited the Lingxiao Heavenly Court.


    Zhong Shan had already learned about this man��Eng Shen of the Heavenly Court.


    "Saint King Zhong, it''s been a while!" Eng Shen greeted politely as he approached.


    Zhong Shan smiled and nodded. "Eng Shen, indeed, it has been."


    "I''ve just heard from my subordinate that you wish to see the Jade Emperor?" Eng Shen inquired.


    "That''s correct."


    "May I ask what business you have with the Jade Emperor?" Eng Shen asked with a smile.


    Zhong Shan''s brow furrowed slightly��was this really a question a subordinate should be asking?


    Sensing Zhong Shan''s displeasure, Eng Shen quickly added, "Please don''t misunderstand, Saint King Zhong. The Jade Emperor is currently at Doushuai Pce, engaged in discussions with the Grand Supreme Elderly Lord. It''s a bit far, but I''ve already sent word. The Jade Emperor has instructed me to treat you with respect. If there''s anything I can assist with, I''m happy to do so in his stead."


    Zhong Shan nodded after hearing this exnation.


    "Since the Jade Emperor is at Doushuai Pce, then take me to see Haomeili," Zhong Shan said directly.


    At the mention of Haomeili, a subtle change flickered across Eng Shen''s face, though he maintained hisposure. "The Eighth Princess is part of the Heavenly Court''s inner household. Inner household members do not receive outside guests. Perhaps it would be best to wait for the Jade Emperor''s permission before meeting Haomeili."


    "Very well," Zhong Shan replied, though he felt slightly ufortable. He understood that each court had its own rules and customs.


    "Since waiting here would be idle, if Saint King Zhong has no other matters at the moment, I can escort you to Doushuai Pce. I''m certain the Jade Emperor would be pleased to meet you once he learns of your arrival," Eng Shen offered.


    "Hmm."


    Following Eng Shen''s lead, Zhong Shan and his entourage proceeded to the entrance of a grand hall. Guards stood vigntly at the entrance, bowing slightly to Eng Shen as he approached.


    "Please,e in," Eng Shen invited, leading the group into the hall.


    Inside the hall, there was a passageway that emitted a radiant, multicolored glow, resembling the entrance to a small world.


    "Please, follow me," Eng Shen said.


    With that, he stepped forward into the radiant passage, and Zhong Shan and his entourage followed.


    As soon as they entered, a sensation of moving at an incredible speed enveloped them. The experience was reminiscent of the starry passageway in Fengzhong Territory where Nuwa had left her final message to the fox n��a passageway constructed by a saint to allow rapid travel to the depths of the stars.


    Zhong Shan had heard that Doushuai Pce was located in the Thirty-Third Heaven, in the region known as Lihen Heaven, and it seemed this passage was the way to reach it.


    After about the time it takes to burn an incense stick, Zhong Shan felt the movement stop, and soon after, Luo Xingchen, Nangong Sheng, and Mr. Corpse also came to a halt.


    The four found themselves standing in the void, surrounded by the infinite expanse of stars. The sight was both awe-inspiring and overwhelming.


    In the distance, floating in the starry sky, were three massive, faintly glowing characters:


    <strong>Lihen Heaven</strong>!


    However, Eng Shen was nowhere to be seen.


    "Saint King!" Luo Xingchen''s expression changed as he called out.


    "Stay calm," Zhong Shan reassured him.


    "But Eng Shen has clearly plotted against us!" Luo Xingchen said, clearly upset.


    "Haotian will give me an exnation for this," Zhong Shan replied, his eyes cold.


    Meanwhile, Eng Shen did not enter Lihen Heaven but instead returned to the previous hall,ughing heartily.


    As he exited the hall, a young man approached��he was carrying a Qian Kun Ring and looked slightly anxious.


    "Yang Jian, was that Zhong Shan just now?" the young man, Nezha, asked, a hint of worry in his voice.


    "Yes, Nezha, why are you here? Oh, I forgot to tell you, I''ve avenged you!" Eng Shen said with a satisfied smile.


    "Avenged? What revenge?" Nezha frowned.


    "Your family treasure, the Xuanyuan Bow��didn''t Zhong Shan take it from you? I lured Zhong Shan into the ''Grand Taiqing Yin-Yang Dust Formation.'' This is the Heavenly Court''s most powerful formation, left behind by the Grand Supreme Elderly Lord. Zhong Shan is doomed!" Eng Shen said with excitement.


    "What? You lured Zhong Shan into that formation? Are you crazy?" Nezha shouted.


    "Didn''t you want revenge?" Eng Shen retorted, annoyed.


    "Who said I wanted revenge? Yang Jian, if you want to kill Zhong Shan, that''s your business, but don''t drag me into it!" Nezha shot back.


    "What''s the big deal? Zhong Shan has only been an immortal for a few hundred years. So what? Why are you so rmed?" Eng Shen sneered.


    "You''d better rescue Zhong Shan immediately, or the consequences will be beyond what you can handle," Nezha warned.


    "Hmph, what''s done is done. If Zhong Shan has the skill, he''ll break the formation and enter Doushuai Pce. If not, that''s his problem. Rescue him? Not a chance!" Eng Shen said coldly.


    Nezha gave Eng Shen a long, hard look. "Suit yourself."


    With that, Nezha turned and walked away.


    "Hmph!" Eng Shen snorted as he watched Nezha leave.


    <strong>At the Eighth Princess''s Residence!</strong>


    "Old man, is it true that Zhong Shan has arrived?" Haomeili asked excitedly.


    "He has, but he''s been lured into the Grand Taiqing Yin-Yang Dust Formation. The situation is dire��this is a formation left by a saint, deadly even for an Ancestor Immortal," Xidu Huang said, his face full of worry.


    "What? We need to go, now! Exin on the way!" Haomeili said, her urgency palpable.


    "Yes."


    As they hurried along, Haomeili asked, "Old man, do you think someone is deliberately trying to harm Zhong Shan?"


    "It seems likely," Xidu Huang replied, his expression dark.


    "Whoever it is, they''re courting death for trying to harm Zhong Shan!" Haomeili''s face grew icy with anger.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1007: Breaking the Formation

    <h4>Chapter 1007: Breaking the Formation</h4>


    <strong>Lihen Heaven!</strong>


    Zhong Shan and his threepanions stood amidst the vast starry expanse. The passage that had brought them here had vanished without a trace, but Zhong Shan was not one to be easily deterred by minor setbacks.


    The four of them gazed out into the star-filled void, with Nangong Sheng appearing the most concerned.


    "Saint King!" Nangong Sheng suddenly called out.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I believe... this is a super formation!" Nangong Sheng said, his voice tinged with astonishment.


    "A super formation?"


    "Yes, and theponents of the formation aren''t ordinary materials or even magical treasures��they are the countless stars themselves. Each star is a massive formation source!" Nangong Sheng exined with utmost seriousness.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed.


    The thought of using stars as formation sources was staggering. The scale and power of such a formation were unimaginable.


    "A starry sky formation?" Zhong Shan looked around carefully.


    Though he could sense the unusual movement of the stars, understanding the intricacies of the formation was beyond him, as his knowledge of formations wasn''t deep. However, Nangong Sheng''s expertise was a different matter entirely.


    Nangong Sheng wasn''t called the greatest formation master in the Small Thousand World for nothing.


    "Yes, this formation is extremely intricate. It reminds me of..." Nangong Sheng trailed off, deep in thought.


    "Reminds you of what?"


    "When Saint King once lent me the Taiji Diagram to study, I sensed that this starry formation has the vor of the Taiji Two Principles," Nangong Sheng replied.


    "A formation in Lihen Heaven with the vor of the Taiji Two Principles is not surprising," Zhong Shan nodded, considering that Doushuai Pce housed the Grand Supreme Elderly Lord, Taishang Laojun.


    "But it''s more than that," Nangong Sheng continued, shaking his head.


    "Oh?"


    "It also carries the shadows of the Grand Luo Zhou Tian Star Array," Nangong Sheng confirmed.


    This revtion surprised Zhong Shan. While a connection to Taishang was expected, the presence of the Grand Luo Zhou Tian Star Array��an array tied to Ancient Divine Power in the Small Thousand World��was unexpected. How were these rted?


    "And it''s far moreplex than Ancient Divine Power''s Grand Luo Zhou Tian Star Array," Nangong Sheng added.


    "Indeed, I don''t know enough about formations. Let me ask you directly��can you break it?" Zhong Shan asked bluntly.


    "Breaking the formation is difficult. I cannot guarantee sess because during the process, we will encounter many critical nodes. A wrong decision at any of these nodes will trigger the crushing power of the stars, which will grind us to dust. Even with our cultivation, we wouldn''t survive," Nangong Sheng admitted.


    "So, you can navigate the general direction, but some critical points are impossible to determine in a short time? And those critical points are a matter of life and death?" Zhong Shan rified.


    "Yes," Nangong Sheng confirmed.


    "If that''s the case, then let''s enter the formation. When ites to life-or-death decisions, I will make the call," Zhong Shan said decisively.


    "Understood," Nangong Sheng replied immediately.


    Over the years, the ministers had grown ustomed to cing absolute trust in Zhong Shan. When Zhong Shan said something could be done, it never failed��no matter how impossible it seemed to others.


    Life-or-death decisions? A wrong choice meant death. While the stakes were terrifyingly high, the confidence Zhong Shan instilled in his followers outweighed their fears.


    With Zhong Shan''smand, the group stepped into the starry formation, fully aware of the challenges ahead.


    <strong>Lihen Heaven, a specific star-filled void:</strong>


    The sky was aze with brilliance, with countless celestial cranes flying, divine beasts circling, and the air thick with spiritual energy. At the heart of this celestial scene stood a grand pce, with a que reading "Doushuai Pce."


    Outside the pce, two young disciples guarded the entrance, clearly bored with their duties.


    Inside the pce, two figures sat across from each other.


    To the south sat the Jade Emperor of Haotian Tongming Pce, and to the north, an elder in a Taiji Eight Trigrams robe��none other than Taishang Laojun himself.


    Between them was a circr alchemy pool, the furnace removed, leaving behind a shallow basin. The basin was filled with water, teeming with countless tiny points of light, resembling fireflies.


    "Laojun, has it not yet municated with the divine''?" the Jade Emperor asked.


    Taishang Laojun shook his head. "Not yet."


    "I just received word��Amitabha has returned to the Great Thunderp Temple, and the body at Sacred Corpse Mountain belonged to Tongtian. With Nuwa''s death, the remaining six saints have each devised their own methods. The time is drawing near��they''re almost ready to return," the Jade Emperor said gravely.


    Taishang Laojun looked at the Jade Emperor and took a deep breath. "I am aware of my identity. I am the incarnation of Taishang''s good corpse. The original body perished, the evil corpse and executor corpse were annihted, but I survived, escaping the punishment of heaven by altering my consciousness. The original body is seeking resurrection, and I am the key. But something is still missing."


    "What is it?" the Jade Emperor inquired.


    "Although I am the good corpse, to preserve me, the original body erased all my memories. I have only the physical form, but no trace of the original consciousness remains. This is why I reside in Doushuai Pce in the Thirty-Three Heavens instead of Baguajing Pce in the Thirty-Six Heavens. It wasn''t until I brought back this fragment of the ''Taiji Diagram'' from the Great Zheng that I learned of my true identity," Taishang Laojun exined, frowning.


    "Since you know your identity, why can''t you reverse the process andmunicate with the divine?" the Jade Emperor asked, puzzled.


    "I can''t. I still need the Grand Taiqing Yin-Yang Dust Formation! The original body set up this formation for a reason��perhaps the method to reverse the resurrection lies within it. If we can decipher this formation, we can solve everything!" Taishang Laojun said.


    "This formation is extremely difficult to break," the Jade Emperor acknowledged.


    "More than that! This formation is a deadlock, an unsolvable situation. There are forty-nine nodes; a single mistake at any point would lead to total annihtion. Even an Ancestor Immortal wouldn''t survive," Taishang Laojun said, gazing at the starlight within the alchemy pool.


    "Since your original body set up the formation, you should be able to break it eventually, right? Even if not, we could have someone else try," the Jade Emperor suggested.


    "A deadlock��because I have a deep understanding of formations, I can see that this is an unsolvable formation. There are very few in the world today who surpass me in formation techniques. If I can''t break it, who can?" Taishang Laojun shook his head in resignation.


    "Wait," Taishang Laojun suddenly murmured.


    Following his gaze, the Jade Emperor looked at the central water basin, where a few tiny star points had begun to move.


    "What''s this? Someone is attempting to break the formation?" the Jade Emperor remarked with a hint of curiosity.


    "It appears so," Taishang Laojun nodded, unconsciously moving closer to examine the shifting points in the miniature representation of the grand formation.


    <strong>Lihen Heaven, at the exit from the Heavenly Court''s passageway:</strong>


    Haomeili, Xidu Huang, Nezha, and several Heavenly Court officials hovered in the void, gazing into the endless starry sky.


    "Zhong Shan seems to have entered the formation," Nezha said, his face grim.


    Haomeili''s expression was icy as she scanned their surroundings. "Let''s head back first," she ordered.


    "Yes!" The Heavenly Court officials immediately responded.


    It wasn''t long before they all returned to the grand hall from earlier. Once outside the hall, Haomeili remained silent, her gaze cold as she stared at an ice sculpture nearby.


    The ice sculpture was surrounded by ck mist, and within a radius of ten zhang, all the vegetation had withered and died. Within the ice, a faint figure could be seen, glowing with a sickly green light as if afflicted by a severe and malicious poison.


    "Eighth Princess, perhaps we should lift the curse on Yang Jian?" Nezha suggested with a hint of a pleading tone.


    "Why should I?" Haomeili replied icily.


    "Yang Jian is a key official of the Heavenly Court. Cursing him like this over some outsiders... Won''t that��" Nezha began to reason.


    "Hmph, I don''t care. I want to curse him. I want to curse him until his organs rot, his limbs decay, and his lineage is severed!" Haomeili snapped, her voice filled with anger.


    As she spoke, the ck mist around the ice sculpture thickened, growing even more ominous.


    "Girl!" Xidu Huang suddenly called out.


    "Old man, don''t interfere, and don''t plead for him. I''ve had enough of him. This is his own doing. Besides, old man, it was Zhong Shan who avenged you. The fact that you''re alive now isn''t thanks to gue God, the Jade Emperor, or Taishang Laojun. Yourplete resurrection is entirely due to Zhong Shan and me!" Haomeili dered stubbornly.


    Xidu Huang smiled bitterly. "I know, and I wasn''t nning on pleading for him. I just want to know how we can save Zhong Shan."


    "Yes, saving Zhong Shan is more important! Nezha, how can we rescue Zhong Shan? Tell me!" Haomeili demanded.


    "I don''t know. Perhaps Taishang Laojun would know how to break the formation! But right now, there''s no way to get to Doushuai Pce," Nezha replied, clearly troubled.


    "Exactly. I don''t know what''s wrong with that old guy��my curse doesn''t even affect him. If I could curse him, we could notify him right away!" Haomeili nodded as if she had just realized something.


    Nezha: "..."


    The other officials: "..."


    "Come up with something! Go ask around and see if anyone can break the formation or at least find a way to inform Taishang Laojun!" Haomeilimanded.


    "Yes, yes!" The officials responded immediately.


    "And what about you?" Xidu Huang asked.


    "Me? I''m going to keep cursing this bastard!" Haomeili pointed at the ice-bound Yang Jian.


    <strong>Lihen Heaven</strong>


    Zhong Shan, Luo Xingchen, Mr. Corpse, and Nangong Sheng stood atop a star.


    "Saint King, this is the first node. There are three possible paths from here, but I can''t determine which one is correct. A single misstep could lead to eternal damnation!" Nangong Sheng said with a frown.


    Zhong Shan closed his eyes, focusing on the Red Luan Pink Lotus at his brow. Blue indicated great misfortune, while red indicated great fortune.


    "We go this way!" Zhong Shan pointed in one direction.


    "Understood!" Nangong Sheng replied, and they moved forward.


    <strong>Inside Doushuai Pce</strong>


    "They made it through. They actually made it safely past the first node?" Taishang Laojun said, a hint of surprise in his voice.


    A little whileter.


    "The second one... they passed the second node as well?" Taishang Laojun''s eyes gleamed as he watched the miniature array in the alchemy pool.


    "Since when did the Heavenly Court have someone whose formation skills rival yours?" The Jade Emperor asked, a trace of confusion on his face.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1008: The Great Star Explosion

    <h4>Chapter 1008: The Great Star Explosion</h4>


    <strong>Dushe Pce.</strong>


    Within Dushe Pce, the Jade Emperor and the Supreme Lord Laozi were intently observing the miniature formation within the alchemical pool.


    At first, the two deities were merely curious, intrigued that someone would dare to challenge the formation. Soon after, a hint of surprise emerged on their faces, as the intruder had already passed through three key points��such luck must be extraordinary.


    However, their initial curiosity turned into pity for the intruder, as once someone entered this grand formation, there was no turning back. Undoubtedly, the one who could manipte the formation so skillfully was a true master of formations. Even more impressive was the fact that this person had continuously passed through three critical points with nothing but sheer luck.


    Of course, the two deities never considered that this might be the work of someone with mastery over fortune itself. Typically, those who practice the art of fortune-telling can indeed avoid misfortune and seek out fortune, but it is usually a vague concept��such as a period of uing disaster or fortune��but nothing as precise as what Zhong Shan was exhibiting.


    Zhong Shan merely needed to think of a notion, and the Red Luan Heavenly Scripture would instantly determine fortune and misfortune, an ability so abnormal that even saints would bepelled to act in unholy ways if they were to learn of it.


    Each time Zhong Shan''s group passed through a key point, the Supreme Lord Laozi and the Jade Emperor felt a twinge of pity.


    But as they passed through twenty key points, the two deities no longer felt pity but instead became fully focused. The gates of Dushe Pce opened, and the Jade Emperor even flew outside, gazing at the distant starry sky.


    Twenty key points, thirty key points.


    Inside Dushe Pce, a subtle excitement could be seen in the eyes of the Supreme Lord Laozi.


    Thirty key points��this was no longer a matter of mere luck; it indicated that the intruder might truly be capable of breaking the formation.


    Breaking the formation? Today?


    Could such an impossible formation truly be broken by a genius of this level?��


    <strong>In the Celestial Court.</strong>


    Hao Meili was incessantly cursing the frozen statue of Eng Shen. A group of noble women approached, led by one dressed in a phoenix crown and golden robe, exuding unmatched dignity.


    "Greetings, Queen Mother of the West!" The officials nearby immediately bowed to the noble woman in front.


    Hao Meili ignored the Queen Mother of the West and continued cursing the ice sculpture.


    "Enough, Hao Meili!" The Queen Mother of the West suddenly called out.


    "What do you mean, enough?" Hao Meili, consumed with anger, seemed to pay no heed to the Queen Mother''s reprimand.


    "Lift the curse on Yang Jian," the Queen Mother of the West said sternly.


    "I won''t!"


    "Yang Jian is a key minister of the Celestial Court. How can you curse him like this? What kind of conduct is this?" the Queen Mother of the West scolded.


    "He harmed my friend, my benefactor, my family��he deserves to die!" Hao Meili stubbornly retorted.


    "Yang Jian must have realized his mistake by now. After all, he is your cousin," the Queen Mother of the West tried to persuade her.


    "I don''t care! Unless you can bring Zhong Shan back now!" Hao Meili shouted.


    "It''s impossible to contact the Supreme Lord Laozi, and the formation cannot be closed. Everything now depends on luck. As for Yang Jian, you should release him first. After all, Zhong Shan may not be dead yet!" the Queen Mother of the West urged.


    "You want me to lift the curse on this scoundrel? Forget it! Old man, let''s go to Li Hentian and wait for Zhong Shan. If Zhong Shan is dead, I''ll make this bastard apany him in death!" Hao Meili said angrily.


    With that, she turned and led Xidu Emperor back into the pce, heading once again to Li Hentian.


    The Queen Mother of the West could only smile wryly, as this was Hao Meili''s bottom line. Hao Meili leaving without continuing to curse Eng Shen was already giving her some face.


    "Summon the gue God!" the Queen Mother of the Westmanded.


    "Yes!"��


    <strong>Li Hentian.</strong>


    Zhong Shan and his group pressed forward through the endless starry formation.


    "We''ve reached the forty-eighth key point, Sacred King. It seems this grand formation is on the verge of beingpletely unraveled!" Nangong Sheng said, his voice tinged with excitement.


    But beneath the excitement, there was a deep sense of tension. To an outsider, Zhong Shan''s continuous sess in breaking through forty-eight key points would have been enough to instill confidence in anyone. However, for Nangong Sheng, the feeling was quite the opposite.


    Having traversed forty-eight key points, Nangong Sheng felt even more anxious. It was as though he was walking on the edge of death, with each step being a life-or-death decision. Rather than bing numb to the danger, the tension only grew more intense, as every move now determined his very survival.


    "Let''s take a break, calm our minds, and then continue," Zhong Shan advised, his tone reassuring.


    "Yes, Sacred King," Nangong Sheng responded, wiping the sweat from his forehead before sitting down cross-legged to restore his mental energy.


    An entire day passed before Zhong Shan instructed Nangong Sheng to resume dismantling the formation.


    "Continue!" Zhong Shanmanded.


    "Yes!"


    The formation continued to unravel, with the stars around them erupting in dazzling light. As Zhong Shan and his group advanced, they drew ever closer to the center.


    Finally, after another day had passed, they came to a halt.


    The stars all around them suddenly began to rotate, swirling around the center as if forming a cosmic vortex. At the heart of this vortex was a massive blue star.


    The blue star emitted an incredibly dense spiritual energy, so powerful that it seemed to prate the soul, even from a great distance.


    "Sacred King, this is the final key point! It''s also likely the most difficult one," Nangong Sheng said.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan responded, intrigued.


    "This is the foundation of the entire formation. It absorbs the power of all the surrounding stars. If we can move this blue star, the entire formation will copse," Nangong Sheng exined.


    "All we have to do is move it?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "Yes, but moving it is no simple task. The blue star is anchored by the power of all the surrounding stars. It''s as if it''s fixed in ce, immovable even if the surrounding space were to copse into a ck hole," Nangong Sheng affirmed with certainty.


    "Let me handle this!" Luo Xingchen suddenly spoke up.


    Reaching out, Luo Xingchen retrieved the Xuanyuan Bow. Throughout their journey, whenever they encountered small stars that needed to be destroyed, Luo Xingchen had always handled them with a single arrow. Now, at this final point, Luo Xingchen stepped forward once again.


    Drawing the Xuanyuan Bow, he released a blood-red arrow.


    As the powerful arrow shot forth, the very fabric of space trembled slightly.


    The arrow, carrying an immense force, hurtled towards the blue star.


    "Boom!!!"


    After the deafening explosion, silence fell over the group. Luo Xingchen''s incredibly powerful arrow had struck the blue star, yet it had failed to destroy it. The blue star didn''t even tremble, and there wasn''t even the slightest dent on its surface.


    Luo Xingchen''s face flushed with embarrassment as he admitted, "Sacred King, I have yet to fully master the Xuanyuan Bow!"


    "This is not Luo Xingchen''s fault," Nangong Sheng interjected. "The blue star has been tempered by the power of all the surrounding stars. By now, it has be a treasure of the Zuxian level��a Grand Immortal Artifact. Its hardness is beyond imagination."


    "A Grand Immortal Artifact?" Zhong Shan''s eyes widened slightly.


    "Indeed, a Grand Immortal Artifact. But this artifact is so enormous that it''s nearly impossible to wield. It''s ten timesrger than the Lingxiao Celestial Court, and even a Grand Immortal would find it exceedingly difficult to carve formations into it. They might even exhaust themselves to death in the process," Nangong Sheng said, shaking his head.


    As soon as Zhong Shan finished speaking, everyone turned to look at him, as if they had all thought of the same thing. Indeed, Baji Tianwei suddenly appeared from nowhere, rushing forward with its mouth wide open.


    "Bigger, bigger, bigger!" Baji Tianwei''s form expanded rapidly, especially its mouth.


    Even though Nangong Sheng and the others had considered the possibility that Baji Tianwei could grow veryrge, they had only imagined it in their minds, thinking that this enormous star was simply toorge to handle. However, the scene unfolding before them left everyone astonished once again��Baji Tianwei had indeed grown to match the massive blue star in size.


    Although Baji Tianwei''s form became somewhat blurred as it grew, as if it were transitioning from physical to ethereal beyond its limits, it eventually reached a sizeparable to the blue star.


    With its massive mouth, Baji Tianwei swallowed the star whole.


    The group could only watch in a state of numb disbelief��this divine beast of the Sacred King was truly extraordinary.


    The star was indeed incredibly solid. After swallowing it, Baji Tianwei''s mouth was stretched to its limit, and it could neither move nor swallow further.


    "Boom!"


    A distant explosion echoed as two stars were dislodged from the formation and veered off course.


    "Did Baji Tianwei really manage to digest that star?" Nangong Sheng remarked with a strange expression.


    Indeed, Baji Tianwei was frantically attempting to digest the blue star.


    It truly lived up to its reputation as the most massive and resilient Grand Immortal Artifact. Baji Tianwei was struggling to digest it.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    More and more stars began to drift off their paths. Although sound is hard to transmit in the vacuum of space, the spatial vibrations carried the reverberations clearly.


    Stars shone brightly as they veered off course, and in some ces, two stars collided in bizarre explosions, creating dazzling starbursts.


    The grand formation began to tremble. The mightiest formation of the Celestial Court was being dismantled with each tremor.


    "Boom!"


    Another massive explosion followed as Baji Tianwei was forcefully shaken away from the blue star''s position. However, Baji Tianwei refused to let go, clinging tightly to the now half-digested blue star and returning to Zhong Shan''s side.


    In the spot where the blue star had been, space seemed to copse inward. An endless stream of white energy from all directions began to converge, gathering more and more, rushing toward the center, making it glow with an unparalleled brilliance.


    "Boom!" The sound of starbursts filled the area as the entirety of Li Hentian descended into chaos.


    At Dushe Pce, the two gatekeeper boys stared in disbelief at the surrounding stars. Their mouths hung open in shock. The once peaceful starry sky of Li Hentian had suddenly turned into a scene akin to a fireworks warehouse explosion in the mortal realm. Meteors shot in all directions, explosions lit up the sky everywhere��it was both dazzling and exhrating! The two boys were utterly entranced.


    Meanwhile, the Jade Emperor and Supreme Lord Laozi had vanished from Dushe Pce, heading towards the center of the chaos.


    Hao Meili and Xidu Emperor stood at the edge of Li Hentian, gazing at the starry sky that resembled a grand explosion, both of them equally stunned.


    "Old man, do you think... do you think this great star explosion was caused by Zhong Shan?" Hao Meili asked, her eyes lighting up with excitement after her initial shock.


    "Perhaps," Xidu Emperor replied, unsure of how to answer.


    "It must be! It''s definitely Zhong Shan! Wherever Zhong Shan goes, he always causes a hugemotion!" Hao Meili eximed, her excitement growing.


    At the center of the explosion, Luo Xingchen and Baji Tianwei were continuously shielding the group, as the starry sky grew increasingly violent. No one had expected such intense turbulence, as if the entire space was boiling over like water.


    At the original foundation of the formation, the ck hole was now being filled with a growing beam of white light, so intense that it seemed ready to fill the ck hole entirely. A vast and majestic aura radiated from the white light.


    Zhong Shan stared intently at the center of the white light, for everyone could feel that something extraordinaryy at its core.


    "Old Lord, is this the reformation of your original Supreme Fate?" A sudden voice echoed throughout the area.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1009: The Return of the Supreme Lord

    <h4>Chapter 1009: The Return of the Supreme Lord</h4>


    "Old Lord, is this your Supreme Fate reuniting with your true self?" A sudden voice echoed throughout the area.


    Zhong Shan and his group immediately turned to look.


    Two figures stood in the void. Zhong Shan recognized both of them.


    The Jade Emperor of the Haotian Pce and the Supreme Lord Laozi.


    It was the Jade Emperor who had just spoken, but the Supreme Lord Laozi did not reply. Instead, his body radiated a blinding white light, as if resonating with the white fate within the ck hole.


    From all directions, an endless stream of mysterious power converged, relentlessly washing over the Supreme Fate.


    The Supreme Lord Laozi suddenly closed his eyes and flew directly into the white fate, merging with it. The intense white light that ensued made it impossible to see anything inside. The ck hole had long been filled with the white light, from which a vast, overwhelming aura erupted.


    This terrifying aura spread out in all directions.


    Although the Jade Emperor noticed Zhong Shan and his group, his primary concern was the Supreme Lord Laozi. Therefore, he did not approach Zhong Shan but instead stayed to protect the Supreme Lord Laozi.


    Meanwhile, the star explosions continued, filling the entire Li Hentian with dazzling brilliance. Zhong Shan and hispanions also focused on fending off the meteorites flying in from all sides.


    Mr. Corpse suddenly opened his eyes after keeping them closed for some time.


    "Sacred King! There''s a massive surge of Xi Qi!" Mr. Corpse eximed with deep amazement.


    "Xi Qi? The kind of energy that only saints can wield?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, and it''s incredibly pure. The entire Li Hentian is filled with it, emerging out of nowhere and then swiftly converging towards the Supreme Lord Laozi!" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Perhaps this was all part of the Supreme Lord''s n from the beginning," Zhong Shan said gravely.


    Another day and night passed, and the magnificent star explosions throughout Li Hentian werepletely overshadowed by the brilliance emanating from the Supreme Lord Laozi.


    As the Supreme Fate of the Saint reformed, the light radiated out for billions of miles, making all of Li Hentian as bright as daylight. It was a spectacle beyond imagination.


    At the edge of Li Hentian, Hao Meili and Xidu Emperor watched with growing anxiety.


    "Why hasn''t Zhong Shane out yet?" Hao Meili asked with concern.


    "Girl, Zhong Shan will be fine. It looks like the formation has already been broken, so Zhong Shan must be dealing with something else," Xidu Emperor reassured her.


    "Hmm! But this white light is so bright, I can''t see anything!" Hao Meiliined.


    On the other side, where Zhong Shan was.


    The massive blue star had beenpletely digested by Baji Tianwei. The energy from the digestion quickly replenished Baji Tianwei, with the surplus energy being transferred to Zhong Shan''s body.


    Another Grand Immortal Artifact-level existence. Zhong Shan''s cultivation naturally surged once again.


    "Boom!"


    <strong>Grand Immortal Seventh Heaven!</strong>


    Zhong Shan realized that perhaps the greatest gain from this journey eastward through Fengzhong Territory was his own advancement in cultivation.


    He looked at the distant white light and continued to wait with hispanions.


    Two more days passed.


    Suddenly, the light from all directions seemed to retract, as if it were being drawn back into the Supreme Lord Laozi at the center.


    The Jade Emperor stood in the void, and not far from him, the Supreme Lord Laozi hovered in midair.


    The Supreme Lord Laozi, who had once worn a robe adorned with the Taiji Eight Trigrams, now appeared in an entirely different garb��an immacte white robe that radiated an otherworldly purity. His eyes remained slightly closed, but the aura around him had undergone a profound and earth-shattering transformation.


    Slowly, the Supreme Lord Laozi opened his eyes. A terrifying pressure emanated from him, sweeping across the heavens. Even though Zhong Shan and hispanions were separated by a vast starry expanse, they could still feel the overwhelming psychological pressure.


    "Old Lord?" the Jade Emperor cautiously inquired.


    The Supreme Lord Laozi nced at the Jade Emperor but did not respond directly. Instead, he said in a calm, detached tone, "Jade Emperor, I have returned."


    "I have returned?" This tone was clearly out of character for the Supreme Lord Laozi. <i>I have returned?</i> Who was speaking��was it the Saint Taishang?


    "Taishang, you''ve returned!" The Jade Emperor''s expression showed a hint of joy.


    Nodding slightly, Taishang said, "I will first return to the Eight Sceneries Pce in the Thirty-Six Heavens. I''ll find you again after I''ve settled matters."


    "Very well!" The Jade Emperor immediately agreed.


    With that, a white Dao of Heaven surged around the Supreme Lord Laozi. As soon as it appeared, he vanished in a sh.


    "Was that the Saint Taishang just now?" Mr. Corpse asked with a frown.


    "It should have been," Luo Xingchen replied after a moment of thought.


    However, Zhong Shan shook his head, saying, "Something''s not right. Something doesn''t feel right."


    Zhong Shan had noticed something peculiar��unlike before, when the Supreme Lord Taishang appeared, his face was clearly visible. It was still the face of the Supreme Lord Laozi, yet something was off.


    When they had encountered the corpse of Tongtian and the figure of Sa, Sa''s face had beenpletely obscured, impossible to discern.


    Why could they now see the face of the Saint Taishang so clearly?


    Of course, the figure they had just witnessed was undoubtedly the returning Saint Taishang. The aura, along with all the other signs, confirmed that this was indeed Taishang''s return. But why could they see his face, while Sa''s remained hidden?


    As Zhong Shan pondered this, a figure suddenly shed by in the distance.


    The Jade Emperor flew over to the group.


    "King Zhong, it''s been a long time!" the Jade Emperor greeted with a cheerful demeanor.


    "Jade Emperor, it''s good to see you again," Zhong Shan replied, nodding in return.


    At that moment, the Jade Emperor looked at Zhong Shan with a hint of surprise. Thest time they met, Zhong Shan had just be an Immortal, yet now he had reached the Grand Immortal Seventh Heaven?


    "You''ve traveled a long way, and I apologize for not greeting you sooner. Is there something important you wish to discuss?" the Jade Emperor asked with a smile.


    Although he was surprised by Zhong Shan''s rapid growth, the Jade Emperor maintained a polite exterior.


    "On behalf of King Dizang, I''vee to deliver a jade slip to you. I also wish to see Hao Meili," Zhong Shan exined straightforwardly.


    Zhong Shan could see the Jade Emperor''s capability, so he decided to cut to the chase instead of engaging in endless pleasantries. As for Eng Shen''s scheming, it was a minor issue that didn''t warrant mention at this moment. However, Zhong Shan was certain that the matter wouldn''t end there; once the Jade Emperor looked into it, he would likely offer an exnation.


    "Dizang King?" The Jade Emperor''s eyes narrowed slightly.


    "Dizang King has passed away. This is what he left for you," Zhong Shan said.


    "Dizang King is dead?" The Jade Emperor''s expression turned serious as he immediately took the jade slip.


    It seemed he already knew how to unlock the jade slip''s seal.


    The Jade Emperor tapped the jade slip, then sent his divine sense into it to carefully read its contents.


    As he read, the Jade Emperor''s expression grew increasingly grave. His eyes even shed with a sharp, menacing light as he continued.


    After finishing, the Jade Emperor put away the jade slip and said, "King Zhong, let us return to the Celestial Court first. Hao Meili has likely been waiting for some time. I need to take care of some private matters first."


    "Alright!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    From the expression on the Jade Emperor''s face, Zhong Shan could tell that the matters mentioned in the jade slip were of great importance.


    With a flick of his sleeve, the Jade Emperor led the group swiftly toward the distance.


    "Zhong Shan!"


    From afar, Hao Meili was already shouting excitedly as she caught sight of him.


    As Zhong Shannded, Hao Meili rushed over, bouncing with excitement.


    "Thank goodness you''re safe! If anything had happened to you, I would have made that scoundrel pay with his life. Zhong Shan, you''re amazing! You even managed to break the Celestial Court''s greatest formation!" Hao Meili chattered excitedly.


    "Jade Emperor!" "King Zhong!"


    Xidu Emperor greeted the two politely.


    "Hmm, Hao Meili, Xidu Emperor!" The Jade Emperor acknowledged them.


    "Huh?" Hao Meili looked at him in confusion.


    "Whatever you saw just now, consider it as if you saw nothing. Li Hentian is just as it always was��nothing has changed!" The Jade Emperor emphasized.


    Xidu Emperor''s expression shifted slightly, but he eventually nodded and said, "Understood."


    "How could it be the same after all thatmotion?" Hao Meili protested.


    "Hmm?" The Jade Emperor red at her.


    Perhaps due to the matters revealed in the jade slip, the Jade Emperor was in a foul mood, which made him snap at Hao Meili. However, Hao Meili, with her thick skin, didn''t seem to mind at all.


    Seeing that the Jade Emperor was about to lose his temper again, Zhong Shan intervened, "Let me talk to Hao Meili."


    The Jade Emperor nced at Zhong Shan and finally nodded.


    Since Hao Meili had already arrived at Li Hentian, the passage from the Celestial Court to this ce had not been closed. The group passed through the passage once more, returning to the grand hall of the Celestial Court.


    "Greetings, Your Majesty!" Several officials outside the hall greeted them with bows.


    "Seal the passage to Li Hentian and station heavy guards there. No one is allowed to enter!" The Jade Emperor ordered.


    "Yes!" The officials immediatelyplied.


    As they left the grand hall, they saw the Queen Mother standing outside with a group of ministers, all of them staring at the frozen statue of Yang Jian.


    "Your Majesty, you''re back?" The Queen Mother asked in surprise.


    At the same time, everyone noticed Zhong Shan, but none of them believed that he had broken through the grand formation on his own. They assumed that the Jade Emperor had saved him.


    The gue God, d in ck robes, was still tirelessly working to lift the curse from Yang Jian.


    "gue God, let him die! Stop trying to lift the curse!" Hao Meili snapped angrily as soon as she saw Yang Jian.


    If Zhong Shan hadn''t broken the formation, he would have been the one dead now.


    The gue God smiled wryly and shook his head, continuing his work without saying anything.


    Seeing Yang Jian''s condition, the Jade Emperor quickly pieced together what had happened but chose not to plead for Yang Jian. He simply allowed the gue God to continue lifting the curse.


    "Sound the Heavenly Bell and summon all the gods to a court assembly in the Lingxiao Hall!" The Jade Emperor instructed an official nearby.


    "Yes!" The official quickly retreated to carry out the order.


    The Queen Mother looked surprised and asked, "The Heavenly Bell? Has something serious happened?"


    "You''ll find out at the assembly. Make sure you attend," the Jade Emperor replied.


    "Very well!" The Queen Mother''s eyes were filled with curiosity, but she did not press for details.


    The Heavenly Bell? It had been a long time since the Celestial Court had sounded the Heavenly Bell. What significant event could have urred?


    Meanwhile, Hao Meili led Zhong Shan and his group directly to the residence of the Eighth Princess.


    "Zhong Shan, tell me, what exactly happened after I left?" Hao Meili asked as they settled into the Eighth Princess''s residence.


    Zhong Shan gave a brief recount of the events in the Fengzhong Territory.


    "Unified the Fengzhong Territory? Zhong Shan, you''re truly incredible!" Hao Meili''s eyes gleamed with excitement.


    "Not bad," Zhong Shan responded with a modest smile, not downying his achievements.


    At that moment, the sound of a bell rang out across the Celestial Court. It was clear that the Heavenly Bell had been struck.


    "By the way, I have something here. Could you help me figure out what it is?" Zhong Shan said.


    "What is it?" Hao Meili asked eagerly.


    Zhong Shan took out the <i>Book of Life and Death</i> from his robe and handed it to Hao Meili. Xidu Emperor, who was seated nearby, couldn''t help but change his expression when he saw the words "Book of Life and Death."


    The <i>Book of Life and Death</i>? How did Zhong Shan get his hands on that?


    "Is this genuine?" Hao Meili asked, her voice tinged with excitement.


    "Yes."


    "Haha! The treasure the gue God has always wanted is now in my hands!" Hao Meili eximed with glee.


    Zhong Shan opened the only essible page, showing one side marked "Life" and the other "Death," where he had written the name "Zilu" under the "Death" section.


    "I wrote this. Can you tell if it has any effect?" Zhong Shan asked.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1010: The Emperor鈥檚 Pride

    <h4>Chapter 1010: The Emperor''s Pride</h4>


    Hao Meili grasped the <i>Book of Life and Death</i> with her eyes glowing, though what emitted from her eyes was not an ordinary light but an eerie ck radiance��dark, yet paradoxically bright.


    As the ck light shone, a chill spread through the surroundings, as if an immense, obscure energy was gathering around her.


    Xidu Emperor immediately stepped back, clearly finding it difficult to withstand the aura, while Mr. Corpse and the others looked on with astonishment.


    <i>Is this some kind of eye technique?</i>


    No, it wasn''t an eye technique. Although Hao Meili''s eyes emitted ck light, her pupils remained unchanged��only the whites of her eyes had turned ck.


    Standing close by, Zhong Shan could see clearly that Hao Meili''s entire eyes had be pitch ck.


    Streams of ck light shot into the <i>Book of Life and Death</i>, causing strange ck symbols to emerge from the book. These symbols multiplied, increasing in number, and were then absorbed directly into Hao Meili''s eyes.


    The scene was incredibly eerie, but everyone present understood that Hao Meili was in the process of refining the <i>Book of Life and Death</i>.


    This enigmatic book, which had seemed impossible to handle, was being so easily refined by Hao Meili?


    ck energy began to seep out from Hao Meili''s body, and the surrounding space was chilled by the coldness of this energy, causing frost and snow to appear in the air.


    The group waited patiently, and after a full hour, the ck light in Hao Meili''s eyes finally disappeared. At that moment, the <i>Book of Life and Death</i> also shrank mysteriously, bing the size of a palm and falling into Hao Meili''s hand.


    With a simple flick of her wrist, the <i>Book of Life and Death</i> vanished. Another flick, and the book reappeared in the void before her.


    Hao Meili, brimming with excitement, began to y with the book.


    After a moment of reveling in her newfound treasure, she turned to Zhong Shan.


    "This... this <i>Book of Life and Death</i> feels like it was custom-made for me! So many curses in here are perfect for my cultivation!" Hao Meili said excitedly.


    "In that case, the <i>Book of Life and Death</i> is yours," Zhong Shan said directly.


    Since he couldn''t utilize it effectively, Zhong Shan naturally decided to give it to Hao Meili, who could make the most of it.


    "Zhong Shan, you''re the best!" Hao Meili eximed, overjoyed.


    Seeing Hao Meili so happy, even Xidu Emperor couldn''t help but show a warm smile. After all, he had watched her grow up and poured his heart and soul into her training. Though they were master and disciple, their rtionship was more like that of a father and daughter.


    "Did you figure anything out?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Upon hearing his question, Hao Meili''s expression turned serious, and the excitement vanished from her face.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhong Shan asked again.


    "Is this Zilu powerful?" Hao Meili asked.


    "He''s quite capable��a Grand Immortal," Zhong Shan replied.


    "Then that''s bad!" Hao Meili said with concern.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan''s expression tightened.


    Hao Meili turned to the page where Zhong Shan had written Zilu''s name. "This is a Life-and-Death Contract. By writing Zilu''s name, you''ve influenced him to some extent, but you''ve also trapped yourself!" Hao Meili exined.


    "Me? What do you mean?" Zhong Shan''s expression grew more serious.


    "The Life-and-Death Contract ensures that one of you must die. Since you''ve written Zilu''s name, within three years, one of you will definitely die. If Zilu dies, one-tenth of his remaining lifespan will be added to yours. But if you don''t kill him within three years, then Heaven itself will decide, and one of you must die!" Hao Meili said.


    "..." Zhong Shan''s expression turned somewhat strange. It seemed that dabbling in curses without proper knowledge could be dangerous. If he had inadvertently written the name of a saint, wouldn''t that have been a death sentence?


    "What if Zilu doesn''t show up?" Mr. Corpse quickly asked.


    Yes, if they couldn''t find Zilu, wouldn''t that be a disaster?


    "No, once the Life-and-Death Contract is formed, it bes entangled with the heavenly mandate. Fate will ensure that you two will cross paths again within three years," Hao Meili exined.


    "..." Zhong Shan fell into a brief silence, before finally muttering with a slightly strange expression, "What kind of treasure is this <i>Book of Life and Death</i>? It''s so sinister."


    "I''m not entirely sure myself. There''s still a lot about it that I haven''t mastered, but I heard from the gue God that the <i>Book of Life and Death</i> is one of the Four Sacred Tomes of Cursing," Hao Meili exined.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Although they couldn''t fully understand the book right now, it didn''t matter��Hao Meili was the one who would study it. The more pressing issue was how to deal with Zilu in the future, given that one of them must die.


    "By the way, do you know who ended up with the <i>Creation Jade Disc</i> after the battle at Saint Corpse Mountain?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I don''t know. Old man, do you know?" Hao Meili turned to ask.


    "You don''t care about anything, so of course you wouldn''t know!" Xidu Emperor said with a smile.


    "I didn''t have the time!" Hao Meili responded, a bit embarrassed.


    "The <i>Creation Jade Disc</i> caused quite a stir when it emerged. But in the end, it vanished!" Xidu Emperor said.


    "Vanished?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Yes, many people fought over it, and during the chaos, the <i>Creation Jade Disc</i> emitted a blinding white light and then disappeared. Some say it was taken by someone in secret, others believe it chose a new owner, and some think it returned to the heavens. There are many theories, but the fact remains��it disappeared," Xidu Emperor exined, shaking his head.


    "Disappeared? That''s impossible. After so many years, why would it vanish now? What happened afterward?" Zhong Shan pressed.


    "After the <i>Creation Jade Disc</i> disappeared, Sa descended from the heavens. By then, many had already fled, but some remained, unwilling to give up. When Sa drew his Qingping Sword, he ughtered every strong cultivator within a million miles��none were spared," Xidu Emperor recounted.


    "Sa truly left no one alive..." Zhong Shan said, his voice heavy.


    "Indeed," Xidu Emperor nodded.


    "And what about Confucius?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Confucius hasn''t appeared since. It seems he, too, realized that the <i>Creation Jade Disc</i> was lost. The area around Saint Corpse Mountain has returned to its former state of deathly silence. After Sa''s sword strike, no one dares to approach the ce anymore," Xidu Emperor said.


    Zhong Shan stayed in the Celestial Court for several days. During this time, the Jade Emperor did not meet with Zhong Shan again. Zhong Shan wasn''t in a rush, but he could tell that something significant was happening within the Celestial Court, likely rted to the jade slip from King Dizang.


    One day, while Zhong Shan and Hao Meili were discussing curse techniques��though Zhong Shan didn''t n to delve too deeply, he wanted to understand at least the basics so he could protect himself��something unexpected urred.


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous sound echoed through the heavens and earth, shaking the surrounding space.


    "What was that?" Hao Meili eximed, clearly startled by the sudden noise.


    "Let''s go!" Zhong Shan quickly reacted, leading the group outside.


    "Which way?" Hao Meili asked.


    "To the Lingxiao Hall!" Zhong Shan replied.


    The group swiftly flew towards the location of Lingxiao Hall.


    Lingxiao Hall, the grand hall of the Celestial Court, stood tall and imposing. The first hall of the Four Continents, it was the central gathering ce for the Celestial Court''s assemblies. Zhong Shan and his group soon arrived nearby.


    The hall was a towering structure, a hundred zhang tall, entirely made of pure white jade, exuding a sense of vastness and majesty.


    Above the entrance hung arge crystal que, on which the characters "Lingxiao Hall" were prominently disyed.


    As Zhong Shan and his group approached, they halted at a distance, observing the scene unfolding before them.


    In the grand za before Lingxiao Hall, the gods of the Celestial Court were gathered, all eyes focused on the center of attention��a massive golden throne adorned with nine dragons. Seated upon this throne was the Jade Emperor, his expression cold and stern.


    Beside him stood the Queen Mother, the gue God, and others, all appearing as though they were facing a great threat. Their gazes were fixed on the southern skies, where something extraordinary was happening.


    In the distance, beyond the Southern Heavenly Gate, a celestial path stretched from the heavens to the earth. Trapped within this path was a man d in a monk''s robe.


    Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted at the sight of this man. <i>King Dizang?</i>


    But how could this be?


    King Dizang''s eyes had lost their luster, as though he had beenpletely controlled, reduced to a puppet carrying outmands. Yet, even in this state, he was trapped within the celestial path.


    "Hmph!" The Jade Emperor let out a cold snort.


    At this sound, the celestial path trembled violently.


    "Boom!"


    A resounding explosion echoed as King Dizang''s body suddenly spewed blood.


    "Dizang!" The Jade Emperor''s voice thundered, as two more celestial paths appeared, shimmering with a mystical aura. These paths intertwined and shattered the one confining King Dizang, freeing his body.


    <i>Dizang? Could it be?</i> Zhong Shan''s heart grew heavier as he watched. Could the Saint Mitian have arrived? Did King Dizang foresee that Mitian woulde to the Celestial Court, prompting him to send the jade slip to warn the Jade Emperor?


    But what was the Jade Emperor''s attitude? Did he know it was Mitian? If so, why did he show no fear?


    The Jade Emperor, still facing south, suddenly spoke in a frosty tone, "So, even among saints, there are those who resort to sneaky tricks. What? Youe to my Celestial Court and hide your face, Mitian?"


    "He knows?" Zhong Shan''s expression grew more serious as he muttered.


    Suddenly, in the distant sky, between the two paths, a figure in white robes appeared with a sh.


    As soon as this figure emerged, the clouds parted, and an overwhelming aura of supreme authority surged forth, pressing down upon all living beings.


    "Roar!" From the Celestial Court, a massive golden dragon of fortune erupted from a sea of golden clouds, its mighty roar weakening the saintly presence significantly.


    "Hao Tian Tongming Pce''s Jade Emperor? The little attendant who served beside Lijun back in the day? What, has Lijun''s fall left you clinging to your old arrogance?" Saint Mitian spoke in a calm, almost indifferent tone.


    "Saint Mitian? You still live up to Lijun Daozu''s assessment of you," the Jade Emperor replied, his voice deep and unwavering.


    "Lijun''s assessment?" Saint Mitian looked at the Jade Emperor, clearly paying great attention to what Lijun had said.


    "Ackey of Heaven''s Will, shallow and narrow-minded, unworthy of great responsibilities!" The Jade Emperor articted each word with precision and disdain.


    The air grew eerily still, as if even the wind had been scared into silence. The gods of the Celestial Court did not dare utter a word; no oneughed, and all they could do was watch with cold, silent gazes.


    As for Saint Mitian, he stood motionless in the void, his expression hidden, but Zhong Shan could guess his feelings. From Mitian''s initial curiosity, it was clear that he valued Lijun''s opinion. But to have that opinion be so dismissive? One could only imagine Mitian''s internal turmoil.


    Having spoken, the Jade Emperor showed no fear, his gaze steady as he looked up at Saint Mitian, exuding an unyielding aura of imperial pride. His presence was as imposing as a towering mountain, defying even the might of a saint.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1011: The Heavenly Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 1011: The Heavenly Emperor</h4>


    The Celestial Court fell into a deep silence as the tension between the Jade Emperor and Saint Mitian escted. The sheer audacity of the Jade Emperor, daring to mock a saint with the words ckey of Heaven''s Will, shallow and narrow-minded, unworthy of great responsibilities," was shocking to all present.


    The Jade Emperor remained cold and unyielding, while Saint Mitian, though a being of immense cultivation, was clearly enraged��not merely by the Jade Emperor''s taunts, but by the evaluation given by Hongjun. It was Hongjun''s opinion that truly stirred Saint Mitian''s anger.


    From within the hazy veil that obscured his face, two beams of cold light shot out from Mitian''s eyes.


    "Hongjun''s evaluation? None of that matters. What matters is that I am still alive, while he is dead!" Saint Mitian said in a low, resonant voice.


    "Dead? Even in death, Hongjun was the First Saint, and that fact will never change��just as you, Mitian, will never change," the Jade Emperor retorted, his voice equally stern.


    "How dare you speak to me in such a tone! Are you not afraid of death?" Mitian asked coldly.


    "Afraid of death? Saint Mitian, you''vee all this way with the intent to kill me, haven''t you? To turn me into the final puppet, the ''Liang''? What else would you have me do?" the Jade Emperor replied icily.


    <i>Liang?</i> Zhong Shan nced at the Jade Emperor in surprise. Could it be that the Jade Emperor was the embodiment of the Liang?


    Saint Mitian looked at the Jade Emperor and was silent for a moment before he sneered, "Heaven''s Will endures. All beneath the saints are mere ants. You, a mere Sacred King, are incredibly arrogant!"


    "Sacred King? Mitian, you''re mistaken. This is not the Holy Court, but the only Celestial Court in the mortal realm. And I am its Heavenly Emperor��the only Heavenly Emperor under Heaven!" the Jade Emperor dered with a cold authority.


    <i>The Celestial Court? The Heavenly Emperor?</i> Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed as he observed the exchange.


    "Hahaha, the Celestial Court? The Heavenly Emperor? You? Do you truly believe yourself worthy? Wasn''t all of this just part of Hongjun''s grand design? If Hongjun hadn''t been so obstinate after the birth of the Great Zhou Celestial Court, creating this so-called Great Hong Celestial Court, the past rebellion against Heaven wouldn''t have ended in such a catastrophic defeat. After taking over an empty Celestial Court, you dare call yourself the Heavenly Emperor?" Mitian''s voice dripped with disdain.


    "You can try me if you like," the Jade Emperor replied calmly.


    <i>You can try me if you like?</i> The atmosphere grew tense once more. The Jade Emperor appearedpletely unafraid��why was he so confident?


    Zhong Shan watched the Jade Emperor with a puzzled expression. Was the Jade Emperor relying on Taishang? No, that couldn''t be it. Taishang had already left the Celestial Court to return to the Eight Sceneries Pce in the Thirty-Six Heavens. Furthermore, from what Zhong Shan knew of the Jade Emperor, he was not the type to rely on others.


    "Arrogant!" Saint Mitian shouted coldly.


    As he spoke, Reng and Mei, Mitian''s two formidable servants, once again merged with the Heavenly Dao. King Dizang, who had been injured earlier, seemed to recover instantly with a gesture from Mitian, and with a single step, he merged with a crimson Heavenly Dao.


    Three distinct Heavenly Daos materialized before them.


    One was ck, one green, and one red. These were not isted strands of the Heavenly Dao, but abined force, intertwined and vast as a neb. The void trembled with their presence. Even without Mitian making a move, the overwhelming aura they projected was one of absolute invincibility.


    Under the clear skies, the entire world seemed to bow in submission.


    Within the Celestial Court, every celestial maiden and soldier who had not made it to Lingxiao Hall fell to their knees, their souls instinctivelypelled to submit.


    Zhong Shan, now fully possessed by the true dragon spirit, stood in front of Hao Meili and the others, shielding them from the immense pressure.


    However, at the entrance of Lingxiao Hall, despite witnessing this disy of power, the assembled gods showed no fear. Instead, a few among them suddenly stepped forward.


    A gaunt man in yellow robes, a noble man in purple robes, and a transcendent man in white robes stepped forward.


    The man in yellow robes dered, "Your Majesty, Gou Chen requests to join the battle!"


    The man in purple robes followed, "Your Majesty, Zi Wei requests to join the battle!"


    The man in white robes added, "Your Majesty, Zhen Wu requests to join the battle!"


    These three figures stood with unyielding pride, showing no fear even in the face of Saint Mitian. Their demeanor was resolute and defiant, ready to confront whatever challengesy ahead.


    Hao Meili whispered to Zhong Shan, "I''ve only seen them once before. They usually don''t attend court, so they must have been summoned by the Heavenly Bell. That''s Emperor Gou Chen, Emperor Zi Wei, and Emperor Zhen Wu!"


    <i>Reng, Mei, and Liang,</i> Zhong Shan thought, noting the formidable presence of these three figures, who were clearly at the Grand Immortal level and closely bonded with the Heavenly Dao. Despite the terrifying power of Mitian''s forces, these three Emperors showed no signs of fear, indicating their own immense strength. Even Nezha and Eng Shen, who stood with dark energy swirling around them,cked the courage to step forward.


    The Celestial Court''s foundation was indeed profound.


    From a distance, Saint Mitian watched coldly.


    The Jade Emperor, seated on the Nine-Dragon Throne, gazed thoughtfully at Reng, Mei, and Liang. His eyes narrowed slightly, as if calcting something, before he turned his attention back to the three Emperors before him.


    "For this battle, I will go myself!" the Jade Emperor dered in a deep voice.


    <i>I will go myself?</i> The Jade Emperor was going to fight personally? The three Emperors looked up at him in surprise.


    "Your Majesty, such small matters don''t require you to personally intervene," Emperor Gou Chen said, slightly taken aback.


    "Aren''t you in the middle of refining the ''Sealing Merit Heaven Technique''? Isn''t it said that you cannot act during this time?" Emperor Zi Wei asked, a hint of confusion in his voice.


    <i>Sealing Merit Heaven Technique?</i> Zhong Shan''s eyes shed with curiosity. <i>What kind of technique is that?</i> Could it be something like the Buddhist practice of closing one''s mouth or refraining from action for a period of time?


    "It''s time to unseal it," the Jade Emperor said suddenly, rising to his feet.


    The moment the Jade Emperor stood, an overwhelming force burst forth, shooting skyward as if tearing through the very fabric of space. A visible surge of immense power rushed straight to the heavens.


    In that instant, the Jade Emperor seemed to transform into the sharpest of swords, his aura piercing and unmistakable��a de aimed directly at the heart of the sky!


    A formidable presence erupted from him, causing the assembled ministers to take a few steps back in response.


    "Your Majesty?" Emperor Zhen Wu murmured in surprise.


    "Return to your ranks!" the Jade Emperormanded.


    "Yes!" Gou Chen, Zi Wei, and Zhen Wu, the three Emperors, responded in unison, stepping back to stand behind the Jade Emperor.


    The Jade Emperor stood tall, his gaze cutting through Reng, Mei, and Liang, focusing directly on Saint Mitian.


    "Mitian, you wish to refine me? Let''s see if you have the ability!" the Jade Emperor said with a resolute tone.


    As he spoke, a dense white mist suddenly surged around him, and a massive Heavenly Dao began to form.


    The Jade Emperor''s Heavenly Dao was a milky white, slowly taking shape. As it did, the entire Celestial Court seemed to tremble. The celestial maidens and warriors who were kneeling in reverence shook with fear, while small stones and debris on the ground began to levitate in the vibrating air.


    The Jade Emperor stepped forward, his body ascending into the sky.


    "Roar~~~!" A mighty dragon''s roar echoed from the sea of fortune clouds, shaking the heavens and earth. The colossal golden dragon of fortune roared as it flew into the Jade Emperor''s Heavenly Dao.


    White, ck, green, and red! Four distinct Heavenly Daos glowed brightly, their vibrations producing an earth-shattering rumble.


    "The Four Ghosts Heavenly Dao Formation? Reng, Mei, Liang? Come on, let''s see what you''ve got!" the Jade Emperor called out from within the white Heavenly Dao.


    With this resounding shout, the four Heavenly Daos began to converge, or rather, collide with each other in a cataclysmic sh.


    The Jade Emperor stood alone against Reng, Mei, and Liang��three formidable Grand Immortals. As the four Heavenly Daos converged, the tension in the Celestial Court reached its peak.


    "Boom!" The collision of the four Heavenly Daos erupted in a deafening explosion, so loud that it seemed to deafen all who heard it. In the Celestial Court, the kneeling warriors and maidens clutched their heads in agony, rolling on the ground as blood poured from their ears��a truly harrowing sight.


    The gods of the Celestial Court, however, were protected by the three Emperors��Gou Chen, Zi Wei, and Zhen Wu��and were unharmed. Yet they watched the sh of the four Heavenly Daos with a mix of awe and concern.


    They revered the Jade Emperor, an emperor bold enough to stand against a saint, to challenge the very authority of the heavens. For tens of thousands of years, the Jade Emperor might not have seemed overly forceful, but this moment alone was enough to overshadow all his past actions.


    The Jade Emperor''s divine might, facing three Grand Immortals and challenging Saint Mitian, was something that filled the gods with admiration.


    But they were also worried. After all, a saint is the most powerful being in the world��could the Jade Emperor truly hold his own against one?


    In the sky, the four Heavenly Daos collided, unleashing an explosion of radiant light. The sh seemed to merge the four Daos into one, their colors blending and shing intensely.


    At the center, the figures of thebatants were no longer visible. All that remained was a massive ck hole, as if thebined Heavenly Daos had ripped through the fabric of space itself.


    The ck hole, though high in the sky and not directly threatening those below, was nheless awe-inspiring. Its edges rippled with waves of spatial distortion, indicating the immense forces at work within.


    The Jade Emperor''s strength was not just formidable��it was unprecedented, even among Grand Immortals. The sheer scale of the battle drew the attention of everyone present, their eyes fixed on the ck hole.


    The gods of the Celestial Court watched intently, as did Zhong Shan and, from a distance, Saint Mitian.


    The ck hole was mesmerizing, its depths unreadable, yet impossible to look away from. Zhong Shan was the first to break free from its hypnotic pull. As an outsider, he had the advantage of detachment and quickly turned his gaze toward Saint Mitian.


    Though the saint''s face was obscured, Zhong Shan could sense his emotions. Saint Mitian''s right hand clenched slightly, an almost imperceptible sign of tension��a rare crack in the calm demeanor of a saint.


    The battle before him had sparked a flicker of agitation in Saint Mitian��what did that imply?


    Could it be that the Jade Emperor was holding the upper hand in this one-against-three battle? Was the Jade Emperor, who had honed his sword for tens of thousands of years, now unleashing a force that could even challenge a saint?


    "Zhong Shan, who do you think will win?" Hao Meili asked after watching the battle for a while, her voice tinged with concern.


    Although Hao Meili often acted indifferent toward the Jade Emperor, they were, after all, of the same bloodline. In this critical moment, she naturally hoped for the Jade Emperor''s victory.


    "The oue is still undecided," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    After all, Saint Mitian had not yet intervened directly��nothing was certain.


    "Who has the upper hand right now?" Hao Meili asked, frowning slightly.


    "The Jade Emperor seems to be suppressing Reng, Mei, and Liang," Zhong Shan observed.


    "Good!" Hao Meili said, a trace of relief in her voice.


    Perhaps the Jade Emperor''s overwhelming power had be too much. After about two incense sticks'' worth of time, Reng was forcefully expelled from the ck hole, his body covered in wounds.


    Reng had been defeated!


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1012: Even Saints Cannot Act Recklessly in the Celestial Court!

    <h4>Chapter 1012: Even Saints Cannot Act Recklessly in the Celestial Court!</h4>


    *Reng* was defeated!


    Zhong Shan didn''t know what *Reng''s* original form was, but he was well aware of the identities of *Mei* and *Liang*: Mei was the ancient beauty Baosi, and Liang was King Dizang. Given this, *Reng* couldn''t have been much weaker. Yet, in just two incense sticks'' worth of time, *Reng* was defeated by the Jade Emperor��even while facing *Mei* and *Liang* simultaneously. This spoke volumes about the overwhelming strength of the Jade Emperor.


    As *Reng* was flung out of the ck hole, the Heavenly Dao once again enveloped him, working to heal his severe injuries.


    *Reng* was defeated! With one Grand Immortal down, the oue of the battle seemed inevitable. Almost everyone could see that the Jade Emperor had triumphed over *Reng, Mei,* and *Liang*. It was now only a matter of time before the final victory was secured.


    But would Saint Mitian simply stand by and watch?


    Saint Mitian''s clenched fist from earlier tightened once more. With a slight wave of his hand, two of the Heavenly Daos separated from the chaotic amalgam of Dao energy.


    *Mei* and *Liang* also withdrew from the battlefield, and the ck hole in the sky began to slowly dissipate.


    The Jade Emperor stood within his white Heavenly Dao, his gaze coldly fixed on Saint Mitian.


    Saint Mitian shook his head slightly.


    "*Reng, Mei,* and *Liang*��you truly don''t make things easy for me. I always end up having to deal with everything myself," Saint Mitian said, shaking his head in apparent frustration.


    Indeed, as Zhong Shan recalled, it seemed that Saint Mitian had always had to step in personally to resolve the situations involving his servants.


    "With the body of a saint, you bully those who are not saints. You truly have no regard for your status," the Jade Emperor mocked, his words dripping with sarcasm.


    The Jade Emperor was taunting Saint Mitian, using him ofcking the dignity befitting a saint.


    "Your sharp tongue will only serve you if you live long enough to use it," Saint Mitian replied coldly.


    With that, Saint Mitian finally made his move.


    As his right hand swept forward, an immense wave of white light gathered from all directions, shaking the void as if the very fabric of reality was copsing.


    With his hand forming a fist, Saint Mitian extended his index finger, pointing it directly at the Jade Emperor. As his finger thrust forward, a massive ethereal finger appeared in the sky.


    The finger wasn''t overwhelminglyrge, but when it touched the Jade Emperor''s Heavenly Dao, the Dao suddenly rippled, as if under extreme pressure, forming waves that threatened to tear it apart.


    "Boom!"


    At the point where the white Heavenly Dao and the giant finger collided, a vast ck hole appeared once again. The enormous Heavenly Dao seemed to be pushed back by the force of the finger.


    The Jade Emperor extended both hands, pushing against the massive finger from within his Heavenly Dao.


    But the finger was too powerful��after all, this was the strength of a saint, not something a mere Grand Immortal could contend with.


    Under the tremendous force, the Jade Emperor''s Heavenly Dao was pushed back toward the Celestial Court, specifically in the direction of the Lingxiao Hall.


    The sky was filled with swirling clouds of fortune, and as the Jade Emperor was pushed back by the immense force, a golden dragon of fortune suddenly materialized around him. The colossal dragon began to frantically draw power from the sea of fortune clouds, channeling it into the Jade Emperor''s body.


    "Roar~~~!"


    With a thunderous roar, the golden dragon''s power caused the Jade Emperor''s Heavenly Dao to swell, growing three timesrger. The resulting force surged back against the saint''s finger.


    "Boom!"


    The entire sky above them turned into a massive ck hole, tearing a rift in the void that was ten timesrger than before.


    As the ck hole gradually dissipated, the scene revealed itself once more.


    The Jade Emperor''s imperial crown was slightly disheveled, but the massive finger that had threatened him was now gone, erased by the tremendous force of the sh.


    Breathing heavily, the Jade Emperor coldly stared at Saint Mitian. The impact of Mitian''s casual strike had been overwhelming, a true disy of the power of a saint. This was the might of a saint��a level of strength far beyond what mortals couldprehend. Even the formidable Jade Emperor was unable to withstand it head-on.


    On the other side, Hao Meili showed a trace of anxiety, while Zhong Shan narrowed his eyes thoughtfully.


    The Four Continents��this was an enormous domain, farrger than his own Fengzhong Territory. The Jade Emperor ruled over the Four Continents, and yet, in this battle, he had only drawn upon the power of the sea of fortune clouds. He had not yet fully mobilized the forces of the entire world, particrly the power of themon people. Why hadn''t the Jade Emperor called upon the power of the people? Was he truly that confident? But just moments ago, he had been unable to match Saint Mitian.


    "Is that all you''ve got? Do you have any other tricks?" Saint Mitian sneered, clearly confident that victory was within his grasp. The earlier sh had allowed him to gauge the Jade Emperor''s strength, and he was certain that even if the Jade Emperor tapped into all the power of the Four Continents, it would be futile against him.


    "Mitian, have you really not noticed anything yet?" The Jade Emperor suddenly smiled faintly.


    As he spoke, the Jade Emperor even withdrew his Heavenly Dao, slowly descending from the sky toward his Nine-Dragon Throne.


    <i>Noticed something?</i> Many of the gods were puzzled, but some, including Zhong Shan, began to understand.


    The Celestial Court was vast and powerful. Despite the intensity of the battle, and the fact that the ck hole had been close enough to the Celestial Court to cause space to tremble, none of the structures within the court had copsed. The spatial ripples had dissipated before reaching the court''s buildings. It was as if some mysterious force was protecting the Celestial Court.


    "The Celestial Court?" Saint Mitian said in a low voice, his tone now tinged with suspicion.


    The Jade Emperor had alreadynded before the Nine-Dragon Throne, but instead of sitting, he stood with his hands behind his back, gazing up at the sky.


    "Yes, the Celestial Court��the only one in the mortal realm. This is a ce where even a saint cannot act recklessly!" The Jade Emperor dered solemnly.


    "Boom!"


    As the Jade Emperor finished speaking, a thunderous noise echoed through the sky as a massive Heavenly Dao shot up from the Southern Heavenly Gate, much like the one that had trapped King Dizang earlier. It appeared suddenly and with great force.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!" From the eastern, western, and northern gates of the Celestial Court, additional Heavenly Daos rose, one after another. Then more and more appeared, surrounding the Celestial Court.


    One, two, three, ten, forty��forty-nine in total!


    A total of forty-nine Heavenly Daos suddenly encircled the Celestial Court. Each was a different color, a unique manifestation of the Dao. It was as if forty-nine Grand Immortals were guarding the Celestial Court.


    These Heavenly Daos emerged, interconnecting seamlessly and transmitting power among themselves, forming what appeared to be an enormous Heavenly Dao array.


    Saint Mitian''s Four Ghosts Heavenly Dao Formation now seemed almost insignificant inparison. While power is not always determined by numbers, the sheer scale of the forty-nine Heavenly Daos protecting the Celestial Court demonstrated its immense strength.


    The sight of these forty-nine Heavenly Daos, towering and majestic, left no doubt in anyone''s mind about the formidable power and grandeur of the Celestial Court.


    As the Heavenly Daos emerged one by one, Zhong Shan felt a sense of deep shock. <i>Is this the true foundation of the Celestial Court?</i>


    Hao Meili smiled faintly, while many of the Celestial Court''s gods disyed expressions of surprise. Despite having served in the Celestial Court for so many years, few had imagined that such a formidable defense��a guardianship of forty-nine Heavenly Daos��existed.


    Outside the protective array, Saint Mitian watched coldly, having already retracted Reng, Mei, and Liang into his grasp.


    "Heavenly Dao guardianship? So this Celestial Court was indeed crafted by Hongjun, infused with his very essence!" Saint Mitian remarked in a deep, resonant voice.


    "It was indeed created by Daozu Hongjun. The Celestial Court is the Celestial Court��here, not even a saint can act recklessly!" the Jade Emperor responded solemnly.


    <i>Not even a saint can act recklessly within the Celestial Court?</i> If these words had been spoken at any other time, they might have been met with scorn, but now, with forty-nine Heavenly Daos standing as guardians, the Jade Emperor''s deration felt justified.


    The Jade Emperor feared no one��not even a saint��as he gazed boldly at Saint Mitian.


    "What arrogance! Hongjun''s creation? Let''s see how the dead Hongjun can stop a living saint!" Saint Mitian retorted coldly.


    With that, he extended his hand, unleashing a powerful strike. The void trembled as a ck hole formed, ripping through the Heavenly Dao guardianship surrounding the Celestial Court. Though the Heavenly Daos defended the court, the saint''s power was simply too overwhelming.


    Saint Mitian''s immense strength tore open arge breach in the Heavenly Dao formation. Amidst the tense gazes of the gods, Saint Mitian stepped through the breach, entering the Celestial Court.


    The gods were filled with concern, but the Jade Emperor remained stoic, his expression as cold as ever.


    As Saint Mitian stepped within the boundary of the Heavenly Dao formation, something extraordinary happened.


    "Hum~~~~~~~"


    The entire Celestial Court began to tremble.


    Then, behind the assembly, the massive Lingxiao Hall suddenly quivered.


    From the location of the Lingxiao Hall, yet another Heavenly Dao emerged.


    The <i>fiftieth</i> Heavenly Dao.


    No��this didn''t seem like an ordinary Heavenly Dao.


    While the other Heavenly Daos, though colored, were somewhat translucent, the Dao that now encased the Lingxiao Hall was solid, as if it were made of marble. This solid Dao shot up into the sky.


    This Heavenly Dao did not exude the overwhelming pressure typical of such forces; in fact, it seemed almost gentle. Yet this seemingly weak Dao caused Saint Mitian to halt in his tracks as he stepped into the Celestial Court.


    In that moment, the entire Celestial Court experienced only a minor tremor, but outside, the world was shaking violently��so much so that it felt as if the entire Four Continents were trembling.


    In Xiniu Hezhou, at the Great Thunderp Temple, the recently returned Amitabha Buddha was speaking to a group of Buddhas when the ground suddenly shook. Amitabha looked up toward the Celestial Court.


    In Beiju Luzhou, at Saint Corpse Mountain, Sa was in seclusion. The tremors prompted him to step out of the Biyou Pce, his gaze fixed in the direction of the Celestial Court.


    To the east, across the Eastern Sea, in the territory of the Great Qin.


    In Xianyang, the holy capital of the Great Qin, Ying Zheng halted his court assembly and led his ministers outside, all of them looking westward toward the Celestial Court.


    Further north, in thend of Lu, Confucius stood atop a high mountain, gazing out across the Four Continents. Though he did not move, his attention was clearly drawn to the events unfolding.


    The appearance of the solid Heavenly Dao brought subtle changes to the Celestial Court. Saint Mitian, staring at the Dao, was visibly shaken by its presence.


    As everyone looked up, they noticed faint shadows emerging on the surface of this solid Heavenly Dao.


    The shadow took the shape of an elderly man in Daoist robes. Although the man''s face was indistinct, he exuded an aura of timelessness, as if he were the embodiment of the passing ages.


    "<strong>Hong... Jun...</strong>" Saint Mitian called out, his voice carrying an emotion that was difficult to describe��a mix of shock, reverence, and something deeper.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1013: The Heavenly Pulse of "Lin"

    <h4>Chapter 1013: The Heavenly Pulse of "Lin"</h4>


    "<strong>Hong... Jun...</strong>" Saint Mitian called out, his voiceced withplex emotions.


    The crowd around him couldn''t help but tense up. Was Mitian addressing the shadow within the solid Heavenly Dao? Was this towering, ancient figure truly Hongjun?


    The solid Heavenly Dao pierced through the heavens and the earth, and Hongjun''s shadow, standing thousands of feet tall, emanated an aura of ancient and boundless power.


    Saint Mitian stared at the shadow of Hongjun, hesitating for the first time, his steps faltering.


    "Saint Mitian, I urge you not to bring ruin upon yourself. This is the Celestial Court, where even saints must not act recklessly. I advise you to leave!" the Jade Emperor said in a deep voice.


    Saint Mitian continued to re at the shadow of Hongjun, then turned his gaze back to the Jade Emperor. His expression shifted slightly as he muttered, "Hongjun is dead. This shadow is merely a remnant of his power, an imprint of the past. How could it possibly stop me?"


    With those words, Saint Mitian took another step forward.


    But as his foot fell, the shadow of Hongjun within the solid Heavenly Dao moved.


    Hongjun''s shadow stood upright, raising his right hand to his chest.


    "<strong>Lin!</strong>"


    The sound of "Lin" echoed thunderously throughout the solid Heavenly Dao.


    At that single utterance, the tremors shaking the Four Continents suddenly ceased. Mountains stopped crumbling, rivers and seas grew still!


    Across the entire Four Continents, this single word resonated everywhere.


    <i>Lin?</i>


    In the vast expanse, the sound of "Lin" seemed to enter everyone''s hearts, bringing a profound sense of peace to those who had been gripped by fear. It was as if this calm came from the very depths of their souls.


    Many cultivators, upon hearing this "Lin," seemed to break through long-standing barriers, rapidly advancing in their spiritual cultivation. Some even found their cultivation levels skyrocketing in response.


    In Xiniu Hezhou, at the Great Thunderp Temple.


    Amitabha Buddha, who had been speaking to a gathering of Buddhas, paused as the earth quaked beneath them. When the sound of "Lin" reached him, he bowed slightly in the direction of the Celestial Court.


    In Beiju Luzhou, at Saint Corpse Mountain.


    Sa, who had been in seclusion, stepped out of the Biyou Pce as the world trembled. When the sound of "Lin" resonated, he stretched out his arms, as if to embrace the sound. A thick white mist swirled around him, slowly receding into his body.


    Further north, in thend of Lu.


    Confucius stood atop a high mountain, gazing towards the Four Continents. The sound of "Lin" spread across thends, seemingly reaching his ears.


    "<i>Heavenly Pulse? ''Lin Bing Dou Zhe Jie Zhen Lie Qian Xing''? Lin?</i>" Confucius murmured, a note of excitement in his voice.


    East of the Eastern Sea, in the capital of Great Qin, Xianyang.


    Ying Zheng stood at the forefront, with the ck-robed Guiguzi by his side.


    "Lin? It truly is Lin!" Ying Zheng said gravely.


    "The nine Heavenly Pulses of the mortal realm��''Lin Bing Dou Zhe Jie Zhen Lie Qian Xing.'' Hongjun had already mastered the Heavenly Pulse of ''Lin.'' No wonder, no wonder he dared to defy Heaven''s will in the past," Guiguzi said in a somber tone.


    "Hongjun, indeed worthy of being the First Saint of that time!" Ying Zheng nodded.


    "With the emergence of the Heavenly Pulse, the Four Continents will no longer know peace," Guiguzi remarked quietly.


    "The Four Continents have always been the focal point, but to say they will never know peace again��I''m not so sure," Ying Zheng replied, shaking his head.


    Back in the Celestial Court.


    The single "Lin" uttered by the shadow of Hongjun within the solid Heavenly Dao caused an abrupt stillness across the Four Continents. But it wasn''t just stillness��every tremor and shock seemed to concentrate toward the ce where Saint Mitian stood in the Celestial Court.


    Saint Mitian, having just stepped into the Celestial Court''s Heavenly Dao array, felt the profound and mysterious force of the "Lin" pulse. His advance halted, and his expression turned grave as the true power of Hongjun''s legacy began to manifest, shaking even the resolve of a saint.


    At the spot where Saint Mitian stood, a sudden burst of intense white light radiated outward. Strangely, the space around him did not shatter, but it was clear that Saint Mitian was trembling violently within the light.


    For a full ten seconds, this trembling persisted before gradually subsiding.


    Saint Mitian, who had just taken a step forward, withdrew his foot, staring at the massive solid Heavenly Dao with a mixture of shock and fear.


    "<strong>Lin?</strong> This is not just a Heavenly Dao; it''s a Heavenly Pulse? The Heavenly Pulse of Lin? Hongjun, you truly are something!" Saint Mitian muttered, his voice tinged with resentment.


    Saint Mitian hadn''t anticipated that even in death, Hongjun could still pose a threat to him. Previously, Mitian would have dismissed such a notion asughable, but now, standing before the Heavenly Pulse, he realized the true power of Hongjun.


    The single word "Lin" might have seemed insignificant to onlookers, but Saint Mitian felt the terrifying power of the Heavenly Pulse��a force that rivaled, or perhaps even surpassed, his own.


    In the mortal realm, there are nine Heavenly Pulses, akin to the nine saints��a fixed number, unchangeable and invible. Hongjun had mastered the Heavenly Pulse of Lin, which exined his audacity in defying Heaven''s will.


    Heaven''s will is immutable, and Saint Mitian had fled to the Small Thousand World precisely because he understood this truth. Had he known that Hongjun possessed the Heavenly Pulse of Lin, his decisions back then might have been different.


    "Mitian, do you dare take another step?" the Jade Emperor asked coldly.


    Saint Mitian looked at the Jade Emperor and fell silent. Clearly, the Jade Emperor now had the power to challenge him��no longer the insignificant ant he once perceived. But Hongjun was dead; this was merely his imprintbined with the power of the Lin Heavenly Pulse. What now?


    Saint Mitian hesitated.


    As he wavered, a sh of white light streaked across the sky.


    Another figure in white descended from the heavens,nding beside the Jade Emperor.


    The Jade Emperor remained calm, while the Three Emperors��Gou Chen, Zi Wei, and Zhen Wu��looked on with slight confusion before their expressions turned respectful.


    From a distance, Saint Mitian eyed the new arrival.


    "<strong>Tai... Shang...?</strong>" Saint Mitian said in a deep voice.


    The figure in white was none other than the former saint, Tai Shang, who had earlier gone to the Eight Sceneries Pce.


    "Shall I escort you out?" Tai Shang asked coolly.


    Saint Mitian fell into silence once more. It was clear that his mood was now exceedingly foul.


    "Hmph!"


    With a cold snort, Saint Mitian transformed into a beam of white light and shot up into the sky, disappearing from sight.


    Tai Shang? The gods finally grasped the significance of this moment.


    "Greetings, Tai Shang!" the gods saluted with respectful bows.


    Tai Shang nodded in acknowledgment.


    The Jade Emperor, watching the direction in which Saint Mitian had fled, wore a somber expression, showing no sign of joy at having driven the enemy away. With a wave of his hand, the forty-nine Heavenly Daos surrounding the Celestial Court slowly dissipated, returning the court to its previous state.


    Turning, the Jade Emperor looked at the solid Heavenly Dao��the Lin Heavenly Pulse.


    Tai Shang gazed at Hongjun''s shadow within the Heavenly Pulse, and with a slight bow, he paid his respects. Clearly, Tai Shang held great reverence for Hongjun.


    The solid Heavenly Pulse gradually faded, and with it, the shadow of Hongjun dissolved into nothingness.


    But then, arge amount of white energy began to seep from the Lin Heavenly Pulse.


    Some of this energy surged toward the Jade Emperor, some toward Tai Shang, and unexpectedly, some even flowed toward Luo Xingchen!


    Half an hourter, the Lin Heavenly Pulse hadpletely vanished, as though it had never existed.


    Tai Shang was the first to regain hisposure, followed by the Jade Emperor. Finally, everyone turned to look at Luo Xingchen, who remained with his eyes closed.


    As they observed Luo Xingchen, the onlookers frowned slightly, puzzled by what they were witnessing.


    Tai Shang and the Jade Emperor slowly approached Zhong Shan''s direction, while the gods remained in ce as the Jade Emperor had gestured for them to do.


    As they neared, Luo Xingchen, who had just opened his eyes, emitted a faint blue light from the center of his forehead, much like a sapphire.


    "Time maniption? Just like my teacher back then. You''ve received a trace of the inheritance of time maniption, haven''t you?" Tai Shang spoke softly, his voice carrying a gentle, spring-like warmth that naturally put those who heard it at ease.


    Luo Xingchen nced at Zhong Shan, who nodded in approval before responding, "Yes, Tai Shang, I have received a trace of the inheritance of time maniption."


    Tai Shang, noticing Luo Xingchen''s deferential attitude, merely nodded before shifting his gaze to Zhong Shan.


    "The recent conflict in the Celestial Court must have been quite the spectacle for you, King Zhong," the Jade Emperor said in a measured tone.


    "On the contrary, Your Majesty''s divine might is truly awe-inspiring. How could there be anything to mock in such a grand disy?" Zhong Shan responded, shaking his head.


    "A few days ago, you yed a crucial role in breaking the ''Taiqing Two-Yi Dust-Grinding Formation,'' allowing Tai Shang to return earlier than expected. For that, we owe you thanks," the Jade Emperor added.


    "It was merely a fortunate coincidence," Zhong Shan replied modestly.


    "A fortunate coincidence, perhaps, but the Celestial Court does not leave debts unpaid for long. If there is anything you require, please speak, and I will see what can be done," the Jade Emperor offered sincerely, though his words carried the implicit understanding that any request would be considered within reason.


    Zhong Shan understood the Jade Emperor''s stance and did not press for anything extravagant. Instead, he made a straightforward request: "I have no particr demands. However, I''ve heard that Tai Shang possesses unparalleled expertise in formation techniques. If Tai Shang is willing, I would greatly appreciate it if he could offer some guidance to my subordinate for the next ten days before we depart from the Celestial Court."


    Zhong Shan''s request was modest and within bounds, showing that he wasn''t seeking undue favors.


    The Jade Emperor and Tai Shang exchanged nces, somewhat surprised by the simplicity of Zhong Shan''s request.


    Finally, Tai Shang spoke, "Guidance is unnecessary. Your subordinate has already reached the pinnacle of formation techniques, having broken the ''Taiqing Two-Yi Dust-Grinding Formation.'' I will simply enhance his knowledge by providing some ancient formations collected by my teacher, along with some of my own insights."


    "Thank you very much!" Zhong Shan responded earnestly.


    With that, Tai Shang produced a jade slip, infusing it with white light as he recorded a vast array of formation techniques within it. He handed it over to Zhong Shan, who then passed it to Nangong Sheng, despite thetter''s evident eagerness.


    "Having just faced a saint, I''m sure the Celestial Court has matters to attend to. I won''t take up any more of your time. We will remain at the Eighth Princess''s residence for the next ten days before taking our leave," Zhong Shan said.


    "Very well," both Tai Shang and the Jade Emperor agreed with nods.


    As Zhong Shan led the curious Hao Meili back to the Eighth Princess''s residence, Tai Shang and the Jade Emperor watched them depart, exchanging a nce of mutual surprise before turning to reassure the gods of the Celestial Court.


    At the Eighth Princess''s residence, Zhong Shan had barely settled down when Luo Xingchen began to speak, "Saint King, about earlier..."


    Zhong Shan, however, raised a hand, signaling him to stop, and shook his head. Luo Xingchen understood immediately and refrained from saying more.


    After calming everyone down, Zhong Shan retreated to a quiet room to reflect on everything he had witnessed.


    <i>The Heavenly Court truly stands above all, even the Sacred Court...</i>


    <i>The Heavenly Emperor?</i>


    <i>There is now only one Celestial Court left in the mortal realm, but were there others before?</i>


    <i>Yes.</i> Zhong Shan recalled Mitian''s earlier words��<i>the Great Zhou Heavenly Court.</i> That, too, was once a Celestial Court.


    <i>The world is far moreplex than it appears. Ancient secrets have umted over eons, and the movements of the saints will undoubtedly plunge the world into chaos.</i>


    <i>Such chaos could lead to one of two oues: great prosperity or great decline.</i>


    <i>To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8 </i>

 Chapter 1014: Meeting Kong Xuan Again

    <h4>Chapter 1014: Meeting Kong Xuan Again</h4>


    Five dayster, somewhere in the vast starry expanse of the Four Continents.


    On a very secluded star, a white pce stood tall. The structure was identical to the Lingxiao Hall, except for the que, which bore three characters: "Haotian Hall."


    The grand doors of Haotian Hall were tightly shut, and an array of protective formations surrounded it.


    Inside, the d��cor mirrored that of Lingxiao Hall exactly. The Jade Emperor sat on the dragon throne, his eyes closed, fingers tapping lightly on the armrest as if deep in thought.


    Standing before him were four figures: Emperor Gou Chen, Emperor Zi Wei, Emperor Zhen Wu, and the gue God.


    The four stood silently, their expressions serious. It had been an hour since they arrived, and none of them knew why the Jade Emperor had summoned them. This ce was known only to five people��even Tai Shang was unaware of it��so the Jade Emperor must have something important to announce.


    Why had he called them here, away from the gods of the Celestial Court, away from the Queen Mother, away from Tai Shang?


    "It needs to be moved up," the Jade Emperor finally said, opening his eyes.


    "Moved up?" The four looked at the Jade Emperor in confusion, but then, almost simultaneously, their pupils constricted as realization dawned.


    "That''s also why I didn''t have you intervene against Reng, Mei, and Liang earlier," the Jade Emperor added calmly.


    "Understood," the four responded solemnly.


    "The Celestial Court can be lost, but as long as you remain, it will return. Here, I''m making some arrangements. Soon, I may appear in a different form, unable to handle certain matters. You will have to take care of them," the Jade Emperor said with an air of finality.


    "Yes, Your Majesty," they replied.


    "As for Hao Meili, you needn''t concern yourselves with her for now. I''ll make arrangements for her. My n must not fail. Also, focus on locating the Zixiao Pce��that is our top priority going forward. But remember, act within your means. All the saints are searching for the Zixiao Pce, for it holds the sealed power of Hongjun. Securing the Zixiao Pce means securing Hongjun''s power. But if resistance is too great, abandon the search immediately. It is not the entirety of our n," the Jade Emperor instructed his most trusted subordinates.


    Another five dayster.


    Zhong Shan and his group had left the Celestial Court. The party now included Zhong Shan, Corpse Lord, Nangong Sheng, Luo Xingchen, as well as Hao Meili and Xidu Emperor.


    "It feels so good to be out! Zhong Shan, you''re amazing. You have no idea how suffocating it was inside the Celestial Court," Hao Meili eximed, her voice filled with excitement.


    "I didn''t expect the Jade Emperor to agree so easily to let youe out. All the arguments I prepared were unnecessary!" Zhong Shan said with a smile.


    "The Jade Emperor is worried about your safety," Xidu Emperor interjected.


    "Hmph, easy for you to say, old man. You cane and go from the Celestial Court as you please, and so can Xiaojin. You two have so much fun while I''m stuck in the Celestial Court, doing embroidery and weaving with those women who call themselves ''sisters.'' It''s so boring! I''m not interested in that at all. I want excitement, I want grand battles," Hao Meili said, wrinkling her nose in disdain.


    Clearly, Hao Meili''s temperament was ill-suited to the quiet pastimes of the Seven Fairies.


    "Alright, you''re always right," Xidu Emperor said, his tone full of affection.


    "Of course I am!" Hao Meili responded confidently.


    "But remember, you''re not just out here to have fun," Zhong Shan reminded her.


    "Oh, right. I''m on an important mission this time. I''m representing the entire Celestial Court to deliver birthday greetings to Ying Zheng. That guy bullied me back in the Small Thousand World��ugh, I''m not sure how I''m going to deal with him when the timees," Hao Meili said, frowning slightly.


    As the group continued their journey, they remained vignt, aware that their mission was more than just a ceremonial visit. The tension in the Four Continents was palpable, and with the recent events involving the saints, they knew that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges. Yet, they moved forward with resolve, prepared to face whatevery ahead.


    "Small Thousand World? Did Ying really bully you? That time in the Dragon Pce of the Small Thousand World, he just reimed the Dragon n''s contract rights. He didn''t do anything to you, and you even cursed him!" Xidu Emperor gently reminded.


    "I couldn''t even curse him properly!" Hao Meili said, a bit embarrassed.


    "Don''t worry about it. When the timees, just be confident and forget about what happened in the Small Thousand World," Zhong Shan advised with a smile.


    "Alright!" Hao Meili nodded in agreement.


    "Ying''s grand birthday celebration is approaching. It''s likely that many guests have already arrived in Great Qin by now," Zhong Shan mused.


    "Yes, since we''re passing by the Eastern Sea, we''ll pick up Xiaojin and then head to Great Qin!" Hao Meili agreed with a nod.


    "Xiaojin? Why did you let her go to the Eastern Sea alone?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "It''s all because of that old Dragon King of the Eastern Sea. He tricked Xiaojin with some story about the Eastern Sea''s Dragon Pearl. Xiaojin kept talking to me about it for a long time, and seeing how pitiful she was, I let her go," Hao Meili grumbled, still annoyed with the Eastern Sea Dragon King.


    A monthter, Zhong Shan and his group were flying over the Eastern Sea, whichy to the east of the Four Continents.


    As they approached, Hao Meili muttered something under her breath, seemingly using some secret method tomunicate with the Golden Dragon.


    After about an hour of waiting��


    "Boom!"


    The surface of the Eastern Sea suddenly split open, and a massive golden dragon shot into the sky, followed closely by four other dragons of various colors, trailing behind the golden dragon like attendants.


    "Roar!"


    The golden dragon let out a joyous roar as it soared toward Zhong Shan.


    "Xiaojin!" Hao Meili called out excitedly.


    In a sh, Xiaojin shrank down and perched on Hao Meili''s shoulder. The other dragons transformed into four elegant young men.


    "Xiaojin, who are these people?" asked one of the young men, who wore a green crown on his head.


    The other three also eyed Zhong Shan and his group with mild hostility.


    "Xiaojin, are these your friends?" Hao Meili asked.


    "They are the Dragon Princes of the Four Seas, sent by the old Dragon Kings to be my attendants!" Xiaojin said proudly.


    <i>The Dragon Princes of the Four Seas? Attendants?</i>


    Though the four young men looked displeased, none of them voiced any objections.


    "Zhong Shan, you really came? I thought it would take you longer to get here. If I had known, I wouldn''t havee to the Eastern Sea," Xiaojin suddenly said to Zhong Shan.


    <i>If I had known, I wouldn''t havee to the Eastern Sea?</i> The four Dragon Princes were left speechless. <i>Is the Eastern Sea really that bad?</i>


    "Yes, Xiaojin, you should have listened to me. You missed out on a lot of excitement!" Hao Meili teased.


    "Oh, right, tell me all about itter. Right now, there''s something exciting happening in the Eastern Sea Dragon Pce. If you hadn''t summoned me, I''d still be watching the show. It''s incredible��a battle between Grand Immortals!" Xiaojin said excitedly.


    "Grand Immortals?" Hao Meili''s expression showed a hint of disdain, though it was clear from the excitement in her eyes that she was eager to see it. After all, she''d witnessed battles between saints in the Celestial Court, so Grand Immortal fights seemed less impressive��at least on the surface.


    "Are there Grand Immortals in the Dragon Pce?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "I''m not sure. It started with a man named Zigong, who I think is one of Confucius''s disciples. He barged into the Dragon Pce, acting all high and mighty, trying to coerce Ao Guang and the others. But then Ao Guang brought out a powerful man in a green robe from deep within the Dragon Pce, and they started fighting right away. It seems like there''s some bad blood between them!" Xiaojin exined.


    Zhong Shan''s eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of Zigong. "A disciple of Confucius and a Grand Immortal from the Dragon Pce... This is worth investigating," he thought to himself, considering the potential implications of such a conflict.


    "A Grand Immortal who holds a grudge against Zigong?" Zhong Shan frowned slightly, his thoughts racing. <i>Is there a force near Lu Territory that dares to challenge Confucius?</i>


    "Do any of you four know who that man in the green robe is?" Xiaojin quickly asked the Four Dragon Princes.


    "We don''t know. We''ve never seen him before," three of them shook their heads.


    The Eastern Sea Dragon Prince, however, added, "That man appeared in the Dragon Pce a few hundred years ago. When he arrived, our father treated him with great respect and even gave him the best pce in the Dragon Pce, the one connected to the Earth''s primal energy. That was where our father used to cultivate, but after this man arrived, our father vacated it for him and ordered us not to disturb him. I don''t know who he is."


    "Let''s go take a look. The battle might be over by now!" Xiaojin said excitedly.


    "Boom!"


    Suddenly, a deafening explosion echoed through the air. The sea before them erupted in towering waves as a massive cyan Heavenly Dao shot skyward. The sheer force of it caused the waters of the Eastern Sea to part, revealing the Dragon Pce in the distance without even needing to dive below.


    The towering pce, surrounded by peaks, showed signs of destruction, with parts ttened. In a deep-sea valley, a massive five-colored monument pressed down on a figure, while the cyan Heavenly Dao stood nearby, towering into the sky.


    "Seal~~~!"


    From within the cyan Heavenly Dao, a thunderous voice boomed, causing the five-colored monument to emit a dazzling light before it expanded tenfold and descended with even greater force, sealing the person beneath itpletely.


    "The man in the green robe won! Zigong has been sealed!" Xiaojin eximed.


    The Four Dragon Princes let out a collective sigh of relief.


    But Zhong Shan did not. Instead, he grew more vignt, recognizing the voice. That voice��he would never forget it.


    In the distance, the man in the green robe within the Heavenly Dao seemed to notice Zhong Shan and his group. With a flicker, he flew into the air, and the Heavenly Dao dissipated.


    The man in the green robe gazed at Zhong Shan.


    Luo Xingchen, Nangong Sheng, and Corpse Lord immediately sensed the tension and prepared for a potential confrontation.


    "What''s going on?" Hao Meili asked, still not understanding the situation.


    "<strong>Kong Xuan</strong>, it''s been a long time," Zhong Shan said in a deep voice.


    "Kong Xuan?" Hao Meili blinked in confusion, taking a moment to process the name.


    It wasn''t until the man in the green robe slowly pulled back his hood, revealing his true face, that the realization hit her.


    Gone were the fractured lines that had once marred Kong Xuan''s face, indicating that his injuries had healed, or at least were not as severe as before. His features were sharp and elegant, with eyes that gleamed with a strange, otherworldly intensity.


    "You''re Kong Xuan? That ancient monster from the Longevity World?" Hao Meili finally remembered, her expression shifting from confusion to recognition.


    Kong Xuan? The Four Dragon Princes finally understood who this was. No wonder the Eastern Sea Dragon King treated him with such reverence, even giving up his own cultivation ground for him. Kong Xuan was a Grand Immortal of immense power, so overwhelming that it bordered on the monstrous.


    "Indeed, it''s been a while, Zhong Shan," Kong Xuan replied, his voice carrying a calm yet menacing undertone as he hovered in the air, his gaze fixed on Zhong Shan. The tension in the air thickened as the two old foes stood face to face once more, the atmosphere charged with unresolved conflict and the weight of their past encounters.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1015: The Great Qin鈥檚 Noble Guest House

    <h4>Chapter 1015: The Great Qin''s Noble Guest House</h4>


    Kong Xuan stared at Zhong Shan, a strange light flickering in his eyes. Meanwhile, Mr. Corpse and the others remained on high alert. After all, Kong Xuan''s fearsome reputation was well-known across the vast world. The wounds he had suffered in the past had mysteriously healed, and if he were to strike now, it would be far more dangerous than dealing with Zilu!


    "Attending Ying''s grand birthday celebration?" Kong Xuan frowned slightly as he spoke.


    Nangong Sheng found this reaction somewhat odd. Given the deep enmity Kong Xuan held towards the Sacred King from their time in the smaller world, his attitude was unexpected. The Sacred King had not only destroyed the Longevity World but had also fought against Kong Xuan himself.


    Yet, before him now, Kong Xuan showed no sign of aggression.


    Nangong Sheng was puzzled, and even Mr. Corpse couldn''t decipher the situation. Even Hao Meili was prepared to curse Kong Xuan at any moment.


    But Zhong Shan understood.


    There are no eternal enemies in this world��at least some grudges can be resolved.


    Although there was enmity between him and Kong Xuan, it didn''t necessarily mean it couldn''t be settled.


    Kong Xuan''s tone made it clear that he had met Ying, or at least encountered him in the Great Thousand World. Perhaps they had even formed some sort of alliance, and since Zhong Shan was a guest invited by Ying, the old grudges seemed less significant.


    "Are you going as well?" Zhong Shan nodded slightly.


    Kong Xuan didn''t answer Zhong Shan but instead cast a deep, lingering gaze at the group before him, then with a flicker of his figure, flew back towards the East Sea.


    Only after Kong Xuan had left did Mr. Corpse and Nangong Sheng finally rx, letting out a small sigh of relief. Kong Xuan''s reputation was indeed overwhelming.


    Zhong Shan watched Kong Xuan''s departing figure, his expression growing solemn as he took a deep look, then turned back to the others.


    "Since everyone is here, let''s move on," Zhong Shan said.


    "Understood!" The group nodded in agreement.


    "You four can return now," Xiao Jin said to the four Dragon Princes.


    "Us? But our father instructed us to stay by your side," the lead Dragon Prince from the East Sea said with a troubled expression.


    "I''m not even in the East Sea anymore, why do you need to follow me?" Xiao Jin retorted indifferently.


    "This... we need our father''s permission. Otherwise, why don''t youe back to the Dragon Pce with us?" the East Sea Dragon Prince suggested, looking even more distressed.


    At this moment, Zhong Shan had no intention of seeing Kong Xuan again. The earlier meeting was more than enough. Ying''s rtionship with him had suppressed their old enmity, but no one could guarantee that another encounter wouldn''t lead to conflict.


    "There''s no need! Time is running short," Zhong Shan shook his head.


    "How about this��my uncle is also heading to Dongzhou to congratte Ying. I can apany you, and once I get my uncle''s permission, I won''t have to follow you anymore. Besides, we''ve been to Dongzhou before, so we can show you the way to Xianyang Sacred City," the East Sea Dragon Prince offered.


    "Yes, we know exactly where Xianyang Sacred City is!" another Dragon Prince eagerly added.


    "Alright then," Zhong Shan nodded in agreement.


    The group continued on their journey, now joined by Xiao Jin and the four Dragon Princes, who were somewhat of a burden.


    Of course, with Dongzhou just ahead, these four burdens would soon be left behind, saving Zhong Shan''s group from the trouble of locating Xianyang Sacred City.


    Along the way, Hao Meili vividly recounted the scenes she had witnessed in the Heavenly Court.


    As she described the arrival of a Saint, the Dragon Princes pricked up their ears. In the past, they had grumbled about the Dragon Pce being subordinate to the Heavenly Court, thinking that the Jade Emperor was too weak to be worthy of their allegiance. But now, they realized��was this weak Jade Emperor actually this powerful? Could it be true?


    Had they really fought against a Saint?


    The once-arrogant Dragon Princes, who had prided themselves on their noble status, found their haughtiness subdued as they approached the grandeur of Dongzhou.


    Dongzhouy just beyond the vast East Sea, separated from the Four Great Continents by this expansive body of water. Though the East Sea was immense, it had its limits. After a month of travel, the group finally reached the borders of Dongzhou.


    Two more months of flight brought them to the outskirts of Xianyang Sacred City.


    Even from a distance, they could see countless glittering lights converging from all directions��these were not the effects of formations but rather treasures. Precious, luminous artifacts from all over the world were gathering to celebrate Ying''s 90,000th birthday.


    "All travelers, halt! By order of the Sacred King, flying is prohibited within the Xianyang Sacred City''s boundaries during the grand celebration!" amanding voice rang out.


    Below, arge contingent of soldiers watched Zhong Shan and his group warily, their weapons drawn.


    "Given the circumstances, let''snd," Zhong Shan suggested.


    The group nodded in agreement.


    They descended andnded in arge za filled with enormous demonic beasts, each carrying various treasures from all corners of the world. It was clear that people hade not only to celebrate but also to showcase their wealth and power.


    Seeing Zhong Shan''s groupnd, the soldiers rxed slightly. Most of the soldiers dispersed, leaving one to approach.


    "Are you here to celebrate the Sacred King''s birthday?" the soldier asked.


    "Indeed," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Do you possess a Great Qin household registration?" the soldier inquired.


    "No," Zhong Shan replied directly.


    "I am the Crown Prince of the East Sea. My uncle is currently in Xianyang Sacred City..." the East Sea Dragon Prince quickly spoke up, trying to assert his status.


    However, the soldier merely nced at the Dragon Prince, dismissing him with a look that indicated he didn''t care in the least.


    "Without household registration, entry to Xianyang is prohibited," the soldier stated firmly.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan raised an eyebrow in slight confusion.


    "Do you have an invitation?" the soldier asked next.


    "We do," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    Upon hearing this, the soldier''s demeanor softened considerably. An invitation meant they were esteemed guests of Great Qin.


    "At the end of the za, there is a red pce. That is where those with invitations are received. Please proceed there," the soldier instructed.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded, seeing no need to argue.


    The group made their way to the end of the bustling za. The entire area was filled with the sounds of people, all seemingly here to celebrate the grand event. Yet, those without permission were not allowed to enter the sacred city. Those carrying treasures were all converging toward a distant blue structure, surrounding itpletely.


    Zhong Shan''s group, however, headed toward the red building.


    Above the red building, arge que read: "Noble Guest House."


    Around the Noble Guest House, arge number of Great Qin guards stood watch, protecting those who held invitations.


    As Zhong Shan and his group approached, a guard at the entrance stepped forward to greet them, "Do you possess an invitation from Great Qin?"


    "We do," Zhong Shan confirmed.


    "Please,e inside!" the guard immediately invited them.


    Zhong Shan''s group was quickly ushered into the building, drawing envious nces from those outside who were previously unting their treasures.


    They were led to a side hall where two officials dressed in Great Qin court robes were waiting.


    One of the officials stepped forward, introducing himself, "I am the Left Pushe of this Noble Guest House, and this is the Right Pushe. The head of the house has temporarily stepped out to handle matters at another Noble Guest House, so we ask for your understanding."


    "Oh? How many Noble Guest Houses has Great Qin prepared for this event?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Eight hundred in total. This is the 364th house," the Left Pushe immediately replied.


    Clearly, those who held invitations were esteemed guests of Great Qin, and they could not afford to offend them.


    "Hmm," Zhong Shan nodded thoughtfully. To have so many people attending, and with just one guest house za, it made one wonder about the scale of the entire event��eight hundred guest houses, each likely teeming with visitors. Could this be an everyday urrence?


    "Honored guests, our duty here at the Noble Guest House is to receive those with invitations. May I kindly ask you to present your invitation so that I may verify it and prepare transportation to Xianyang Sacred City?" the Left Pushe requested.


    "Of course," Zhong Shan agreed, reaching into his sleeve to retrieve the ck-gold invitation that Wang Jian had given him.


    The Left Pushe respectfully epted the invitation, but as soon as the ck-gold invitation touched his hand, his expression shifted dramatically.


    The Right Pushe beside him also froze, his face stiffening at the sight of the invitation.


    The two exchanged a bewildered nce, and then the Left Pushe''s demeanor changedpletely. The previous respectfulness vanished, reced by a cold, stern gaze.


    "What''s the matter? Finished examining it?" Zhong Shan asked calmly.


    The Left Pushe shot a cold look at Zhong Shan, his voice icy, "You dare present a fake invitation? What are your intentions?"


    "Hmm?" The group collectively raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    "Are you saying this is a fake?" Zhong Shan asked, a hint of curiosity in his voice.


    "I''ve seen countless invitations over the past few months, but never anything as audacious as this. You''ve fabricated an invitation, and such a poor attempt at that!" the Left Pushe scoffed.


    "What do you mean by that?" Hao Meili demanded angrily.


    "Hmph! There are only three colors of invitations��red, yellow, and blue. Yet you''ve dared to create a ck one? Such audacity!" the Left Pushe finally erupted in anger.


    He felt insulted, as if they thought he was colorblind. If they were going to fake an invitation, could they not at least put some effort into it? This was beyond absurd��a ck invitation? He had seen hundreds of invitations in recent months, and not a single one was ck.


    The Left Pushe was fuming, while the Right Pushe quickly intervened to calm him down. "Please, take it easy. I believe these guests are simply eager to witness the grandeur of the Sacred King. Although the invitation is a forgery, the craftsmanship is quite decent, which shows some effort. Many people wish to congratte the Sacred King; they came with good intentions, so there''s no need to get too angry."


    The Left Pushe nodded, cooling down a bit. After all, it was a joyous asion for the Sacred King, and causing a scene would be inappropriate.


    "Please, return from whence you came. Or, you may head to the gift exchange area to exchange your offerings for entry into Xianyang," the Right Pushe suggested politely.


    The group stood in silence for a moment.


    "Are you certain there are only three colors of invitations? Or have you simply only seen three?" Zhong Shan asked, feeling somewhat amused.


    The two officials paused, suddenly unsure. Indeed, they had only ever seen three colors, and their superior had only mentioned three. What if this was some sort of special guest? What if they were showing disrespect to someone important?


    The Left Pushe broke into a cold sweat at the thought.


    "My apologies. Allow me to inspect it again," the Left Pushe quickly said.


    Zhong Shan nodded, allowing him to proceed.


    The Left Pushe carefully opened the invitation and took a closer look. After only a moment, he snapped it shut, his face paling even further.


    He turned to Zhong Shan''s group, his eyes zing with anger.


    "What now?" the Right Pushe asked curiously.


    The Left Pushe took a deep breath before speaking, "The Noble Guest House is a prestigious institution of Great Qin, not a ce for you to y games. A ck invitation? I''ve never seen such a thing before. I could consider the possibility of a fourth type of invitation, but the writing inside, though bold and elegant, doesn''t match any handwriting I''ve ever seen. Every invitation was personally overseen by Prime Minister Li Si. The red invitations were handwritten by Li Si himself, while the yellow and blue ones were penned by three hundred officials from the Ministry of Rites. I may have many shorings, but I never forget handwriting. This invitation''s script does not belong to any of those officials!"


    The Left Pushe was thoroughly enraged. The handwriting on this invitation was unlike anything he had ever seen in the official ranks. How dare this group repeatedly try to impersonate distinguished guests?


    Zhong Shan''s eyes gleamed with a peculiar light. Indeed, the handwriting was not Li Si''s��it was from Ying himself.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1016: The Gift Hall

    <h4>Chapter 1016: The Gift Hall</h4>


    The Left Pushe''s face flushed with a mix of shame and anger. On the Sacred King''s joyous day, he found himself in an awkward position��on one hand, he had to meticulously uphold the etiquette of Great Qin, and on the other, he couldn''t afford to tarnish the prestige of the empire. Therefore, whenever anyone entered the Noble Guest House, the Left Pushe had to be extremely cautious. But today''s situation left him thoroughly humiliated.


    A person trying to sneak in with a fake invitation?


    And not just any fake invitation, but one so poorly done that even the color was wrong, and the handwriting didn''t match that of Prime Minister Li Si or any of the Ministry of Rites officials. If they were going to fake it, could they not at least make it convincing?


    "Do you think this ce is somewhere you can just mess around? Great Qin is not a ce for you to act recklessly!" the Left Pushe shouted in anger.


    Hearing his outburst, Nangong Sheng and the others frowned. They hade with good intentions to celebrate Ying''s grand birthday, yet this was the attitude they received from Ying''s subordinates?


    Meanwhile, the Dragon Princes of the Four Seas looked on with a hint of disdain. They had expected more from Zhong Shan''s group, but this situation was beyond their expectations.


    "Left Pushe, calm down. The head of the house instructed us that no matter what happens, we must not lose our temper. Until the Sacred King''s birthday celebrations are over, we must not cause any disturbances," the Right Pushe quickly interjected, trying to soothe the situation.


    Zhong Shan nodded slightly. The officials of Great Qin were indeed well-trained. Zhong Shan wasn''t angry because he understood the situation. The head of the guest house wasn''t present, so the invitation couldn''t be verified, and these two had clearly never seen such an invitation before, leading to this major misunderstanding.


    Despite this, neither official had resorted to violence. One was angry, but the other was trying to de-escte the situation. It was admirable��had this been any other imperial court, they would have likely summoned soldiers to arrest those suspected of forgery.


    "I''m not angry, but you can see how they''re behaving..." the Left Pushe grumbled, still feeling frustrated.


    "Alright, alright. Why don''t you take a break? I''ll handle this," the Right Pushe suggested.


    "Hmph! If it weren''t for the Sacred King''s birthday, I wouldn''t let you off so easily!" the Left Pushe huffed, shooting a cold re at Zhong Shan''s group before stepping aside.


    The Four Seas Dragon Princes subtly edged away, as if embarrassed to be associated with Zhong Shan and hispanions.


    The Right Pushe turned to Zhong Shan, "It''s best if you all leave. The Sacred King''s birthday is a time of celebration across the world��please don''t make things difficult for me."


    "The invitation is genuine. The fact that you can''t recognize it..." Zhong Shan began.


    "You''re still talking? Do you think we''re fools?" the Left Pushe, who had just sat down, jumped up again in frustration.


    Zhong Shan ignored him and looked directly at the Right Pushe.


    The Right Pushe''s patience was clearly wearing thin. He had already been courteous, yet this group remained obstinate.


    "Let''s do this��I''ll ask something slightly out of bounds: have you brought gifts for the celebration?" the Right Pushe inquired.


    "Of course," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Seeing Zhong Shan nod, the Right Pushe let out a small sigh of relief. He nodded back, "All those whoe to celebrate the Sacred King are esteemed guests of Great Qin. However, Xianyang is overcrowded right now, so we''ve had to impose certain restrictions. Since you''vee with gifts, why not head to the Gift Hall on the west side? I will personally issue you a document, allowing you to bypass the queue and meet with officials from the Ministry of Rites directly."


    The Right Pushe''s suggestion was considerate��since they wouldn''t ept the invitation here, if the group had gifts substantial enough for the Gift Hall, they could still gain entry. Moreover, he was willing to issue a document to help them skip the line.


    As he spoke, the Right Pushe quickly instructed a subordinate to prepare the document.


    Zhong Shan couldn''t help but smile at the Right Pushe''s resourcefulness. He truly was a capable official.


    The official document was quickly prepared, and the Right Pushe handed it to Zhong Shan with respectful politeness.


    "Honored guests, once you leave the Noble Guest House, turn right. The blue hall is the Gift Hall," the Right Pushe exined earnestly.


    Zhong Shan smiled and replied, "Very well."


    Meanwhile, the Left Pushe was still rolling his eyes, clearly disapproving of the Right Pushe''s "courtesy." To him, this group was clearly here to cause trouble.


    "Return my invitation," Zhong Shan said, ncing at the Left Pushe, who still held the ck-gold invitation in his hand.


    "Huh?" Both Pushe officials were taken aback.


    The Left Pushe nearly erupted in anger again��how could they still be pretending after he had already exposed their fake invitation?


    The Right Pushe, however, furrowed his brow in thought.


    "Here," the Left Pushe said impatiently, handing the invitation back to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan epted it with a smile, saying nothing further.


    He carefully put away the ck-gold invitation, took the official document, and led his group out of the Noble Guest House.


    Once outside, Hao Meili, still feeling indignant, said, "Why did you even bother with them? We could just force our way in and see what Ying would do about it!"


    "Let it go. We''re in Great Qin, so we should follow their rules. They weren''t intentionally rude, and they were actually quite polite, even giving us this document," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head with a smile.


    As someone who was used to being an emperor, Zhong Shan found the situation somewhat novel and amusing.


    However, the Four Seas Dragon Princes had a different perspective. They were still convinced that the invitation was fake, but they were surprised that they could still obtain an official document. The politeness of Great Qin''s officials left them in awe.


    "Let''s go to the Gift Hall. We can just offer some gifts and enter!" the East Sea Dragon Prince suggested eagerly.


    Zhong Shan nodded, not overly concerned. He hade to celebrate the birthday and to enjoy the experience��there was no pressure at all.


    As they walked away from the Noble Guest House, the two Pushe officials continued their conversation inside.


    "Why did you give them an official document? They were clearly here to make trouble!" the Left Pushe grumbled, still displeased.


    "It''s the Sacred King''s birthday celebration. Better to avoid unnecessary conflicts," the Right Pushe replied.


    "But you''ve created more trouble by doing so! Now they might think Great Qin is easy to fool!" the Left Pushe retorted angrily.


    "No, something feels off," the Right Pushe said, shaking his head thoughtfully.


    "What do you mean, off?"


    "The head of the house isn''t here, so we can''t be certain that the ck-gold invitation is fake. Yes, forgeries exist, but no one would use ck-gold to make a fake invitation. A small fragment of ck-gold added to a magical artifact would enhance its quality. But them?" The Right Pushe shook his head again.


    "Maybe some people are just wealthy and don''t care about the cost?" the Left Pushe suggested dismissively.


    "No, something still doesn''t feel right. At the end, that man insisted on getting the ck-gold invitation back. His attitude��he acted like the invitation was genuine!" the Right Pushe persisted, shaking his head in doubt.


    "Impossible! If it were genuine, wouldn''t he have refuted my usations?" the Left Pushe replied, still unconvinced.


    Shaking his head, the Right Pushe said, "I don''t think he didn''t refute you because it wasn''t genuine. I think he didn''t want to make things difficult for us. It felt as if he truly had a deep connection with Great Qin. Perhaps we just made a grave mistake by turning away an honored guest of Great Qin."


    A hint of anxiety shed in the Right Pushe''s eyes as he considered the possibility.


    "An honored guest? Impossible! Even if they were, they''ve been turned away. What more could you want?" the Left Pushe scoffed, still refusing to believe it.


    "The head of the house may not be here, but we cannot afford to be careless about this. I need to ry this information immediately��one report to the head of the house and another directly to Xianyang. We need to verify if there are indeed guests with ck-gold invitations. If there aren''t, that''s one thing, but if there are, then we''ve really made a mess of things!" the Right Pushe said, growing increasingly anxious.


    "I don''t care. If you want to report it, go ahead!" the Left Pushe retorted, still in a foul mood.


    "Someone,e here!" The Right Pushe, decisive and efficient, immediately summoned someone to carry out the orders.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan and his group, holding the official document from the Noble Guest House, made their way leisurely toward the Gift Hall on the west side.


    The area around the Gift Hall was bustling with people, most of whom were unting their treasures. While these gifts might not seem impressive to Zhong Shan, to some lower-tier families, they were extraordinary. Offering a gift to the Sacred King could enhance their family''s reputation, and if they were lucky enough to catch the Sacred King''s attention, the rewards could be immeasurable.


    It was much like a mortal family suddenly gaining the privilege to attend a grand gathering of celestial beings��they would naturally try to win the favor of the deities.


    Great figures have their own ways of dealing with the world, while smaller figures have theirs.


    "Peni Zhao n presents five hundred luminous pearls, a hundred-foot purple coral, and a pair of Earthfire Ginseng!" a ceremonial officer announced.


    As the gifts were reported, the crowd began to buzz with conversation.


    "Is that enough?"


    "Those gifts are worth at most eight thousand immortal stones. The minimum standard here is twenty thousand immortal stones!"


    "Maybe, but that Earthfire Ginseng is quite rare. There might be a chance!"


    "Perhaps, let''s see what the ceremonial officer says..."


    As Zhong Shan''s group approached the entrance, it seemed as though an invisible force parted the crowd before them.


    "What''s going on here? You can''t cut in line to offer gifts; everyone must wait their turn!" one of the ceremonial officers maintaining order said sternly.


    "We have an official document from the Noble Guest House, which grants us priority!" the East Sea Dragon Prince immediately eximed.


    The ceremonial officer took the document, reviewed it, and finally nodded. "Follow me."


    To the surprise of everyone around them, Zhong Shan and his group were escorted to the front of the line.


    At the front, there was arge jade table where eight officials from the Ministry of Rites were seated.


    In front of them were people presenting their treasures��luminous pearls, purple coral, and Earthfire Ginseng. A man in a white robe was nervously waiting for the officials'' decision.


    The eight officials examined the items carefully and then conferred among themselves.


    Finally, one of them spoke up.


    "Normally, these items alone would not qualify you for entry, but the pair of Earthfire Ginseng is indeed a rare treasure. Very well, leave the items, and we will grant you three entry passes," the official announced.


    "Thank you, my lord! Thank you, my lord!" The white-robed man expressed his gratitude profusely, clearly relieved and excited.


    With a wave of the official''s hand, the white-robed man respectfully took his leave, taking his now-approved entry passes with him.


    "This is daylight robbery!" Hao Meili remarked with a look of astonishment.


    "Alright, it''s our turn now," said a man in a purple robe who stepped forward next. "I am from the Peni Qian n, and I bring five pounds of dragon saliva incense, a thousand luminous pearls, a hundred stalks of immortal grass, ten Thousand-Autumn Fruits, and a hundred-foot purple jade heart!"


    His tone was far more confident than that of the Zhao n representative earlier, likely because his gifts were significantly more valuable.


    When he finished, the crowd erupted in gasps of admiration.


    "The Peni Qian n has such immense wealth!"


    "Another gift worth a hundred thousand immortal stones!"


    "They''ll definitely gain entry to Xianyang!"


    As the crowd continued to murmur, the official who had just spoken epted the document from Zhong Shan''s group.


    The official examined the document and nodded.


    "Peni Qian n, please wait a moment."


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1017: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Gift

    <h4>Chapter 1017: Zhong Shan''s Gift</h4>


    At the outskirts of Xianyang Sacred City, within one of the Noble Guest Houses, two house masters were leisurely sipping tea and conversing.


    "Master Wang, I''ve had the honor of receiving six red invitations this time, all personally penned by Prime Minister Li Si, making them the most prestigious guests of Great Qin! How about you?" one of them said, taking a sip of his tea.


    "Six?" The red-robed Master Wang raised an eyebrow, clearly displeased by the other''s sess.


    "Don''t let it bother you. Out of the eight hundred Noble Guest Houses, perhaps only we have been fortunate enough to host more than six of such distinguished guests," the other house master said with a smug smile, though he tried to hide his pride.


    "Master!" a soft voice suddenly called from outside the hall.


    "Oh? It seems one of your people is here. Could it be that something has gone wrong on your end?" the other master joked with a chuckle.


    "Come in!" Master Wang called out.


    Soon, a man in a green robe entered, bowing respectfully to Master Wang.


    "Has something happened?" Master Wang asked with a hint of concern.


    "No, Master. The Right Pushe has something he wishes to report," the green-robed man said.


    "Oh?"


    "A person with an invitation arrived today."


    "Another one?" Master Wang''s face lit up with a smile, clearly pleased by the potential for another achievement.


    "Yes, but the invitation was quite strange. The Left Pushe immediately identified it as a forgery, though the Right Pushe still instructed me to report it to you," the green-robed man exined.


    "Haha! Master Wang, it seems even your house encounters oddities. Who would dare present a fake invitation?" the other house masterughed, taking another sip of his tea.


    Master Wang''s expression soured as he inwardly cursed the Right Pushe for causing unnecessary trouble. However, he kept his tone neutral as he asked, "How was it identified as fake?"


    "The person presented a ck invitation. The Right Pushe mentioned that it seemed to be made of ck gold," the green-robed man replied.


    "Pfft!" The other house master, shocked, spat out his tea.


    "A ck-gold invitation?" Master Wang eximed, jumping to his feet.


    "Yes, a ck-gold invitation. The Left Pushe and Right Pushe dismissed it as a forgery and sent the person away," the green-robed man continued.


    "Whoosh!"


    In the blink of an eye, Master Wang vanished from the room, leaving the green-robed man bewildered.


    As for the other house master, he was left staring at the green-robed man with aplicated expression. How could one even begin to exin this?


    At the Gift Hall za where Zhong Shan and his group had just cut in line, their sudden advancement had enraged those waiting behind them, especially the members of the Peni Qian n.


    The Qian n had brought arge number of gifts, each worth several times that of other families'' offerings. They had waited patiently for their turn, eager to make a grand impression. Just as they were about to have their moment in the spotlight, it was snatched away, leaving them stifled and unable to express their pride.


    "Peni Qian n, please wait a moment!" the official had said.


    "Why should we wait? We''ve been in line for so long, and yet they get to cut in front of us?" the Qian n''s representative demanded angrily.


    "Yes, exactly!" A few others in the crowd began to echo the sentiments of the Peni Qian n''s representative.


    The Ministry of Rites official cast a cold nce at them and said, "Great Qin''s affairs are none of your concern."


    With just those few words, the Qian n''s representative broke into a cold sweat, not daring to say another word. Had he lost his mind just now? How could he have shouted at a Great Qin official? But the humiliation was hard to swallow��so many people were watching, and they had been cut in line without even being allowed toin. This frustration would surely be a source of ridicule among many families.


    Unable to direct his anger at the official, the Qian n''s representative redirected his resentment toward Zhong Shan and his group. A cold smile shed in his eyes as he thought, <i>Let''s see what kind of treasure you have that could surpass what our Qian n has offered.</i>


    "Please, proceed," the official said, gesturing toward Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan nodded in response.


    "Should we offer something as well?" the East Sea Dragon Prince whispered, clearly feeling the pressure after the embarrassment at the Noble Guest House. The situation back there had been rtively private, but here they were surrounded byyers uponyers of onlookers.


    "No need. This is my gift to Great Qin. It has nothing to do with you," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    Reaching into his sleeve, Zhong Shan pulled out a long, rectangr box.


    "What is this?" the official asked, curious.


    The official epted the box, and all eyes were on him as he slowly opened it. Inside, there was no dazzling light, only a simple, white, rolled-up object.


    "What is this? A scroll? A painting?" someone in the crowd murmured.


    "A painting?" the official asked, still uncertain.


    "It''s a piece of calligraphy," Zhong Shan corrected.


    "A piece of calligraphy?"


    The crowd erupted in chatter, as it was the first time anyone had seen someone offer a piece of calligraphy as a gift.


    The Qian n''s representative burst intoughter on the spot. "A piece of calligraphy? What kind of calligraphy could possibly be worth enough to meet the threshold for entering Xianyang? The minimum value is twenty thousand immortal stones! And you think a piece of calligraphy will suffice? Who wrote it?"


    "Yes, who''s the calligrapher? Could it be a Saint''s handwriting? Hahaha!" others from the Qian n joined in, mocking the idea.


    The official, however, carefully untied the string binding the scroll, still curious, and nced at Zhong Shan. "Whose calligraphy is this?"


    "It''s mine," Zhong Shan said solemnly.


    <i>It''s mine.</i>


    The moment those words left Zhong Shan''s mouth, a heavy silence fell over the entire za. It was so quiet that it was almost eerie, as if everyone had been stunned into disbelief. <i>Your own calligraphy?</i>


    In the midst of the silent za, the Four Seas Dragon Princes began to retreat slightly, unable to bear the shame of being associated with this scene. This was beyond humiliating.


    <i>You''re giving your own calligraphy?</i>


    "Hahahaha!"


    "Hahaha!"


    "Haha!"


    Laughter erupted once more, filling the air, as the onlookers, led by the Qian n''s representative, burst into uncontroble fits of amusement. The East Sea Dragon Prince, his face drenched in sweat, was both mortified and somewhat relieved that he had distanced himself from Zhong Shan earlier. But did that distance really matter? A piece of calligraphy?


    Among all theughter, the Qian n''s representative''s voice was the loudest, as if he couldn''t believe the absurdity of what was happening.


    Meanwhile, back at the Noble Guest House where Zhong Shan had been earlier, Master Wang stormed into the building as if possessed by a madness.


    In one of the Noble Guest Houses at the outskirts of Xianyang Sacred City, another guest had arrived, this time with a red invitation. The Left and Right Pushe greeted them with the utmost respect.


    But just as they were attending to this esteemed guest, Master Wang burst into the room, his eyes immediately catching sight of the red invitation. Under normal circumstances, Master Wang would have been delighted and would have treated the guest with the highest respect. But now, he had no such feelings.


    "Left Pushe, Right Pushe, where is the person with the ck-gold invitation?" Master Wang shouted.


    "The one with the fake invitation? We sent them away!" the Left Pushe replied, puzzled by the urgency in Master Wang''s voice.


    "Are you certain it was a ck-gold invitation?" Master Wang asked, his voiceced with anxiety.


    "I''m sure of it!" the Right Pushe confirmed.


    "But it was a fake! The handwriting inside didn''t match that of the Prime Minister or the three hundred officials from the Ministry of Rites. I''m certain they were here to cause trouble with a fake invitation!" the Left Pushe interjected.


    "Wait, it wasn''t handwritten by Prime Minister Li Si?" Master Wang was now utterly confused.


    "Yes, I saw it with my own eyes!" the Left Pushe insisted.


    "Then... can you recall what it looked like? Use a spell to recreate it. How could a ck-gold invitation not be penned by Prime Minister Li Si?" Master Wang asked, still bewildered.


    "I told you it was fake! Here, the writing looked like this!" the Left Pushe said as he used magic to conjure the image of the writing in the air.


    The guest holding the red invitation nced at the floating characters andpared them to the writing on their own invitation, nodding in agreement. "Indeed, it''s not Li Si''s handwriting."


    Feeling validated, the Left Pushe looked smug, while the Right Pushe remained silent. But Master Wang, upon seeing the writing, looked as though he had been struck by lightning.


    "This... this...!" Master Wang stammered, his voice barely a whisper.


    "What''s wrong, Master Wang? Should I send people to arrest them? I could tell right away they were troublemakers, daring to use a fake invitation!" the Left Pushe said confidently.


    "That... that''s the Sacred King''s handwriting!" Master Wang eximed, his face a mix of horror and despair.


    Back at the Gift Hall za where Zhong Shan''s gift had caused an uproar, theughter and mockery felt like daggers to the hearts of the Four Seas Dragon Princes. They were filled with a sense of deep embarrassment.


    <i>I offered to provide a valuable treasure, but you refused. Now you''ve presented a piece of calligraphy��how can I ever show my face again?</i>


    "Haha! A piece of calligraphy! Your own calligraphy! Who do you think you are? Do you think you''re a Saint?" the Qian n''s representativeughed loudly.


    Zhong Shan ignored the jeers and looked calmly at the ceremonial officer. "What do you think this calligraphy is worth?"


    The Four Seas Dragon Princes were on the verge of covering their faces in shame. <i>How could this be happening? In the world of cultivation, ancient calligraphy is worthless, especially if it''s written by a nobody.</i>


    "How much is it worth? One immortal stone, perhaps? Am I overestimating it?" the Qian n''s representative sneered.


    "Silence!" the ceremonial officer barked, his voice cold andmanding.


    The Qian n''s representative fell silent, but still muttered under his breath, "Is it written with heavenly treasures or something?"


    Ignoring the muttering, the ceremonial officer carefully unrolled the scroll.


    <strong>"Wang Qin"</strong>


    <strong>How magnificent is Great Qin? The voice of Dongzhou echoes still.</strong>


    <strong>The spirit of creation manifests, dividing day and night.</strong>


    <strong>Clouds gather inyers, and birds return homeward.</strong>


    <strong>One day, I will ascend the peak, surveying all the mountains below.</strong>


    The scroll was not just a piece of calligraphy��it was a grand poem, written with majestic and powerful strokes. As the words were revealed, a wave of auspicious energy surged forth, transforming the clouds in the sky into vibrant, multicolored formations.


    "What a magnificent piece of calligraphy! And the poem��it''s splendid!" the ceremonial officer eximed.


    The signature at the bottom read <strong>Zhong Shan</strong>. The officer couldn''t help but admire the work, feeling a powerful aura emanating from it.


    "Indeed, it''s a fine piece. Perhaps it''s worth ten thousand immortal stones?" the Qian n''s representative suggested with a tone of begrudging respect, though still filled with jealousy.


    "A single piece of calligraphy worth ten thousand immortal stones? Is that possible?"


    "No way! How could a single piece of calligraphy be worth that much?"


    "Officer, what is its true value?"


    "Yes, tell us��how much is it really worth?"


    The crowd buzzed with curiosity, eager to know the true value of the calligraphy. But the ceremonial officer, still staring at the scroll, was at a loss for words.


    "Well? Give us a number!" the onlookers urged, growing impatient.


    Just then, a powerful voice echoed through the za.


    "Each word is a gem, each character worth a city��this is a priceless treasure!"


    The voice was like a thunderp, filled with an aura of undeniable authority.


    "What nonsense! Worth a city? Priceless treasure? You must be��" The Qian n''s representative began to mock, but as he turned to face the speaker, the words died in his throat.


    Two men in resplendent robes approached, exuding an overwhelming presence that seemed to weigh down on everyone in the za.


    "Thud!"


    Without hesitation, the Qian n''s representative dropped to his knees.


    "Greetings, Prime Minister Li, Prime Minister L��!" the ceremonial officers bowed deeply.


    <i>Li Si? L�� Buwei?</i>


    The crowd was stunned into silence, scarcely able to breathe. Had they heard correctly? The two Grand Chancellors of Great Qin were here?


    "Greetings, Prime Minister Li, Prime Minister L��!" The people in the za, though not kneeling, bent in deep bows as they paid their respects.


    The entire za fell into an eerie stillness as all eyes turned to the front of the Gift Hall, where the two most powerful men in Great Qin, after the Sacred King, had appeared together.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1018: The Most Honored Guest

    <h4>Chapter 1018: The Most Honored Guest</h4>


    In Great Qin, the Sacred King Ying stands supreme. Beneath the Sacred King, the Left and Right Grand Chancellors hold unmatched power,manding respect throughout the empire.


    These two officials are so highly revered that even many of Great Qin''s other officials have never had the privilege of seeing them in person. Most have only seen their images in official documents and reports. For months, neither chancellor had appeared in public or personally greeted any guest, no matter how esteemed, because no guest had been significant enough to warrant their presence.


    Due to theplexities of imperial power, while the two chancellors wielded great authority, their rtionship was not one of close friendship. The Sacred King''s strategic governance ensured that these powerful figures remained in check, and both chancellors understood that while they might present a united front in court, they were also meant to counterbnce each other.


    Thus, it was exceedingly rare for both chancellors to appear together. But here they were now.


    Upon learning about the ck-gold invitation, the Noble Guest House master, Master Wang, was struck with a sense of impending doom. After weeks of receiving no significant guests, he had growncent and had even slipped away to visit another guest house, taking advantage of the lull. But in doing so, he had missed what could have been a monumental sess��or perhaps, a disaster.


    Realizing the gravity of the situation, Master Wang, apanied by the Left and Right Pushe, rushed toward the za where Zhong Shan and his group were located.


    As they reached the outskirts of the Gift Hall, they were greeted by the sight of everyone bowing deeply.


    The sight of the two Grand Chancellors at the center of the za left the three of them utterly shocked.


    The Left Pushe trembled, too terrified to speak. <i>A ck-gold invitation? A personal inscription by the Sacred King? Both Grand Chancellors here to greet them? And I drove them out of the Noble Guest House?</i>


    Master Wang initially hoped to salvage the situation, but upon seeing the Grand Chancellors, he knew it was toote.


    As the crowd bowed, their hearts were filled with curiosity.


    <i>A single word worth a city? A priceless treasure?</i>


    Had anyone else spoken those words, they would have been dismissed as nonsense. How could a word be worth as much as a city? But these words came from Chancellor L�� Buwei himself. If he said it was valuable, it certainly was.


    Could this piece of calligraphy be worth the value of forty-two cities? Who exactly were these people?


    The Four Seas Dragon Princes, upon seeing Li Si and L�� Buwei, were simrly shaken. <i>What could have brought these two pirs of Great Qin here? Could this piece of calligraphy really be worth so much?</i>


    The ceremonial officers, too, were left in stunned silence, not knowing why both chancellors had suddenly appeared.


    The two Grand Chancellors approached with slight smiles on their faces.


    L�� Buwei stepped forward, picked up the piece of calligraphy, and examined it. "Saint King Zhong Shan''s calligraphy is rare and precious. The poem ''Man Jiang Hong'' from days past shook the heavens and earth, causing divine retribution to descend upon it. Now, this new poem, ''Wang Qin,'' brings forth auspicious omens from the heavens. This piece alone is worth more than all worldly treasuresbined. The Sacred King will surely be delighted when he sees it!"


    L�� Buwei spoke with a casual tone, exuding an innate warmth that made it seem as though he and Zhong Shan were old friends. Yet, to those listening, his words struck like thunder. <i>A poem that shook the heavens? Divine retribution? Could a single poem truly provoke the heavens?</i>


    Initially, they couldn''t believe it, but with L�� Buwei''s words, they had no choice but to reconsider. After all, would the Grand Chancellor of Great Qin, L�� Buwei, lie to tter an outsider? Absolutely not.


    This piece of calligraphy was undoubtedly worth more than cities. It was a priceless treasure!


    Some among the crowd even picked up on L�� Buwei''s tone, noting the familiarity in his voice. This made those who had mocked Zhong Shan earlier feel a wave of panic, especially the representative of the Peni Qian n, who hadn''t dared to rise from his knees since he first bowed.


    In the background, Master Wang and the Left and Right Pushe could only feel bitterness gnawing at their hearts.


    "Saint King Zhong Shan, I apologize for the inadequate hospitality you''ve received in Great Qin. I beg your pardon," Li Si said, bowing slightly toward Zhong Shan.


    If L�� Buwei''s friendly assessment of the calligraphy had left people in a state of shock, Li Si''s bow was like freezing time itself. The entire za seemed to hold its breath.


    Almost everyone was frozen in ce. The scene was deathly quiet. The ceremonial officers quickly bowed to Zhong Shan, and those who had mocked him earlier didn''t dare to breathe too loudly. The head of the Peni Qian n felt like his heart was about to shatter��how could he have been so reckless with his words?


    Master Wang and the Left and Right Pushe watched in disbelief, their ears ringing. This guest... was far more important than they had realized. How could they have been so blind to not recognize someone so significant?


    The Four Seas Dragon Princes could only look at Zhong Shan in utter astonishment. <i>Who exactly is this man?</i> they wondered. <i>Zhong Shengwang?</i>


    Zhong Shan had journeyed from the underworld, traveling east to the Heavenly Court, then to the East Sea, and finally to Dongzhou. Although he had made stops along the way, he never lingered long enough for his fearsome reputation from the underworld to reach these distantnds.


    But now, hearing Li Si refer to him as <i>Zhong Shengwang,</i> everyone could understand��he was a Holy King, a title on par with that of Ying, the Sacred King of Great Qin.


    Zhong Shan looked at the two chancellors with a smile, shaking his head as he said, "Chancellor L��, you overpraise me. It''s just a piece of calligraphy."


    Then, turning to Li Si, Zhong Shan added, "Chancellor Li, there''s no need to feel guilty. Great Qin''s system is highly effective, and besides, no one knew I would being today."


    To Zhong Shan, this entire situation was of little consequence. At his level, such matters were viewed with detachment. He wasn''t about to let his emotions re up over something trivial, as he might have in his younger days when pride meant everything.


    Moreover, those who had mocked him earlier seemed more ignorant than anything else in Zhong Shan''s eyes. To lower himself to their level would be to diminish his own intelligence and experience, allowing himself to be defeated by their superficial understanding.


    So, Zhong Shan merely smiled at their ignorance.


    "Saint King Zhong Shan, shall we continue our conversation in Xianyang?" Li Si suggested.


    "As you wish," Zhong Shan agreed.


    "Please," L�� Buwei added.


    Master Wang, who had rushed over, did not have the courage to approach. He could only stand by, feeling a deep bitterness in his heart. The Left and Right Pushe, though still frightened, felt a small sense of relief��at least they hadn''t gone too far in their actions.


    With L�� Buwei''s word, a white cloud appeared beneath Zhong Shan and his group, lifting them into the sky and carrying them toward the imperial pce in the center of Xianyang. This time, with the two chancellors leading the way, no one dared to obstruct them.


    In the distance, a man in white robes witnessed the scene. Perhaps thinking highly of himself, he too took to the sky to follow them.


    "Stop right there! During the Sacred King''s birthday celebrations, flying is prohibited within the boundaries of Xianyang Sacred City!" a squad of Great Qin soldiers shouted.


    "But they''re flying!" the man in white protested.


    "Form ranks! Prepare to engage the enemy!" the squad leader barked.


    A wave of killing intent surged toward the man in white, causing him to shudder and immediately descend back to the ground, watching Zhong Shan''s group with envy as they flew away.


    Indeed, Zhong Shan''s group was attracting a great deal of attention as they flew into Xianyang. But why should Zhong Shan care? Initially, without the involvement of Li Si and L�� Buwei, Zhong Shan had intended to treat this trip casually, almost like a leisurely visit. However, with the two chancellors now involved, the situation had elevated to a diplomatic affair. This was an honor Zhong Shan epted without hesitation.


    As Zhong Shan epted this honor, those entering Xianyang were filled with curiosity, their eyes drawn to the unfamiliar faces of the neers. Seeing the two chancellors leading the way, nearly everyone was stunned. <i>Who are these people?</i> they wondered.


    In avish manor within Xianyang Sacred City, an old dragon man with dragon horns on his head was addressing a group of people.


    "Ao Shun, I didn''t expect you to have a red invitation as well. It seems that the Sacred King holds the Four Seas Dragon Pce in high regard," said a man in red robes, smiling at the old dragon.


    "The national beast of Great Qin is the dragon. Naturally, the Four Seas Dragon Pce is worthy of such recognition," Ao Shun replied with a hint of pride.


    "Indeed. Otherwise, how could someone of your rank receive a red invitation?" a man in green robes said dismissively.


    "What do you mean by that?" Ao Shun responded angrily, his eyes shing with fury.


    "Look, Li Si and L�� Buwei are escorting someone to the Chongtian Hall za!" someone suddenly shouted.


    "Chongtian Hall za? There are only a few spots there. Who''s the new arrival?" the man in green robes called out.


    "That''s my son! That''s my son!" Ao Shun, the North Sea Dragon King, eximed with a slight tremor in his voice.


    Ao Shun recognized the Four Dragon Princes immediately, but who would believe him at this moment? The others cast disdainful looks his way. <i>Are you crazy? Seeing a distinguished guest and iming they''re your son?</i>


    Not long after, Zhong Shan and his groupnded at the imperial pce, on the highest tform��a massive za. On the northern side of the za stood a grand pce, the heart of Xianyang''s governance, the Great Hall of Morning Assembly, known as Chongtian Hall.


    The doors of Chongtian Hall were tightly shut, and around the za, four smaller pces had been built, standing out conspicuously.


    "I apologize, Saint King Zhong Shan. The Sacred King is currently in seclusion, attempting to break through to a new level. However, he has assured us that he will emerge in time for his birthday celebration. Please bear with us for a few more days," Li Si exined.


    "No problem," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Saint King Zhong Shan, this is Chongtian Hall. In five days, the Sacred King''s birthday celebration will take ce here. The four surrounding pces are reserved exclusively for the most honored guests. No one else is allowed here. You are thest of the four to arrive," L�� Buwei said with a smile.


    "I wasn''tte, was I?" Zhong Shan replied with a smile.


    "Of course not. There are still five days left, plenty of time for us to converse and get to know each other better," L�� Buwei continued with a warm smile.


    "Certainly!"


    As they spoke, the doors to the other three pces began to open. The guests in these pces knew that anyone allowed into Chongtian Hall za was among the most honored in Great Qin. With only four ces avable, those four represented powerful forces or individuals.


    The first three had already exchanged greetings, so they were naturally curious about the fourth guest. When they saw Li Si and L�� Buwei leading the new arrivals, the upants of the other three pces took note.


    As the doors opened, an elderly figure, radiating divine light, stepped out from the first pce on the left.


    <i>Bodhi Patriarch?</i>


    Zhong Shan recognized him instantly. Following closely behind Bodhi Patriarch was Sun Shen, who had initially been filled with curiosity. However, upon seeing Zhong Shan''s group, his face twisted in displeasure, as if he had swallowed a bitter pill.


    "Saint King Zhong Shan, we meet again!" Bodhi Patriarch greeted him with a smile.


    "Greetings, Bodhi Patriarch," Zhong Shan replied with a nod.


    The doors of the second pce on the left opened, and a brilliant golden light spilled out as a massive, imposing figure emerged. His appearance was both novel and strangely familiar to Zhong Shan, reminding him of something from his youth��perhaps a visit to a temple.


    "Shakyamuni, at your service, Saint King Zhong Shan," the golden monk dered.


    "Shakyamuni? The Great Sun Tathagata Buddha of the Great Leiyin Temple?" Zhong Shan asked, his expression turning peculiarly amused.


    Tathagata Buddha nodded, his serene expression studying Zhong Shan, his eyes emitting a barely perceptible glint, as if trying to discern why Ying had extended an invitation to this man.


    "Greetings, Tathagata Buddha," Zhong Shan said respectfully.


    Tathagata Buddha nodded in acknowledgment, returning the gesture with a slight bow.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1019: Blue

    <h4>Chapter 1019: Blue</h4>


    The first hall on the left housed Bodhi Patriarch, and the second hall held Tathagata Buddha. Both were immensely powerful figures, whether through their individual strength or the formidable forces theymanded. Zhong Shan''s gaze naturally turned to the first hall on the right, curious about who resided there.


    As the door of the rightmost hall opened, a refreshing and vast aura, reminiscent of the ocean, filled the air. It was powerful and grand, announcing the arrival of yet another figure. A man stepped out, d in an exquisitely ornate blue imperial robe, his hair a striking shade of blue cascading down his back. Following him were four subordinates, each disying the utmost respect for the man who led them.


    The aura of an emperor!


    Unlike the ethereal presence of Bodhi Patriarch and Tathagata Buddha, this blue-robed, blue-haired man exuded the proud,manding presence of an emperor.


    As the blue-robed emperor stepped out, his gaze fell on Zhong Shan, curiosity shing in his eyes. He was clearly surprised, as Zhong Shan''s cultivation level was rather conspicuous��though his growth had been rapid, he was still only at the seventh level of the Grand Celestial stage. Any Ancestor Immortal could see this at a nce.


    Yet here was Zhong Shan, standing among these other three figures as one of Great Qin''s most honored guests. The blue-robed emperor found this quite intriguing.


    "Chancellor L��, who might this be?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    Before L�� Buwei could respond, the blue-robed emperor spoke up, "You may call me ''Lan.''"


    <i>Lan?</i> An emperor named Lan?


    Lan hadn''t yet discerned Zhong Shan''s identity, but anyone acknowledged by Ying must certainly be worthy of his own recognition.


    "Zhong Shan," Zhong Shan introduced himself with a nod.


    Hearing the name, Lan''s expression shifted slightly, as did those of the four subordinates behind him. They exchanged nces, surprise evident in their eyes.


    "Zhong Shan? Are you the same Zhong Shan who recently caused a greatmotion in the underworld and defeated Zilu?" Lan''s eyes gleamed with interest.


    If this was indeed the same Zhong Shan, then the man before him was no ordinary individual. Defeating Zilu, an Ancestor Immortal, while being only a Grand Celestial? Such an achievement, while perhaps not unprecedented, was certainly a disy of extraordinary power.


    <i>Defeated Zilu?</i> Tathagata and Bodhi Patriarch both looked at Zhong Shan with renewed interest, as this was news to them. Could it really be true?


    Even Sun Shen, standing behind Bodhi Patriarch, appeared conflicted. <i>Could this really be possible?</i>


    "If no other Zhong Shan has emerged in thest few months to defeat Zilu, then the one you speak of is indeed me. How did youe to know of this?" Zhong Shan asked with mild curiosity.


    "So it''s true! About a month ago, I passed through the underworld and heard the stories circting there. They described Zhong Shan as a towering figure, ten feet tall, with eyes like bronze bells and a fearsome aura. It seems the rumors were greatly exaggerated," Lan said with a smile.


    Zhong Shan nodded, recognizing the exaggeration typical of such tales. The two now knew each other''s names, and Zhong Shan discerned something from Lan''s words��was this man the ruler of a certain holy court in the underworld?


    "Saint King Zhong Shan, we... we..." the East Sea Dragon Prince suddenly stammered.


    The Four Seas Dragon Princes were clearly ufortable, overwhelmed by the immense pressure they felt. Tathagata Buddha stood before them��an existence so powerful that even the mightiest of their elders in the Great Leiyin Temple could only serve as protectors in his presence. And now, here he was, standing right in front of them, making the Four Dragon Princes feel incredibly small.


    Then there was Bodhi Patriarch, another formidable ancestor. And this man named Lan��who was he? He also seemed incredibly powerful.


    The Dragon Princes felt an overwhelming sense of pressure. The shame they had felt earlier at being associated with Zhong Shan now turned into deep embarrassment, and they could only think about getting away as quickly as possible.


    "By the way, Chancellor Li, these Dragon Princes are here to find the North Sea Dragon King, Ao Shun. Do you know if he has arrived?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Li Si.


    "Ao Shun should be in the Guest Garden. I can guide you there," Li Si offered after a moment of thought.


    "No need, no need. Just send a guard to lead us there," the East Sea Dragon Prince quickly interjected.


    "Very well," Li Si nodded.


    He summoned a guard with a wave of his hand, who then led the Four Seas Dragon Princes to find Ao Shun.


    <strong>In the Guest Garden</strong>


    Ao Shun was adamantly insisting, "The ones who flew by earlier were really my sons!"


    But none of the other guests in the garden believed him.


    In the Guest Garden, only those with red invitations were allowed entry. Most of the other guests viewed Ao Shun as someone who had only managed to get a red invitation because of his connection to the Dragon n��a privilege he had barely earned, in their eyes.


    The group that had just been escorted by both Li Si and L�� Buwei was obviouslyprised of extraordinary figures, as they were taken directly to Chongtian Hall.


    That ce was reserved for only the most honored guests. Among those they knew, Tathagata Buddha was one of these supreme guests.


    Yet even Tathagata Buddha had not warranted the personal attention of both Li Si and L�� Buwei.


    And now, Ao Shun had the audacity to im that one of those guests was his son? <i>Who do you think you are?</i> Could his son really stand on equal footing with Tathagata Buddha? If that were the case, Ao Shun wouldn''t be just a minor Dragon King of the North Sea.


    The other guests regarded Ao Shun with disdain, which only deepened his anxiety.


    "Immortal Lord of the South Pole, you''ve known me for many years. Am I the type to boast or lie? Please, help me prove it��that was really my son!" Ao Shun pleaded with one of the guests.


    Ao Shun knew that if he couldn''t rify the situation, his reputation would be utterly ruined. The people here were all of high status, and he wasn''t particrly well-regarded to begin with. If they firmly believed he was lying, he would lose all face in the East Continent.


    The Immortal Lord of the South Pole''s face twitched slightly. <i>Prove it? I don''t even know your son!</i>


    "Ao Shun, I think it''s best to just let it go. It''s already a privilege to be in the Guest Garden��there''s no need to take unnecessary risks. It''s fine to talk here, but if word of this reaches those distinguished guests, it could be bad for you," the Immortal Lord of the South Pole advised.


    "You don''t believe me either?" Ao Shun was on the verge of breaking down.


    He looked around and saw nothing but disdainful gazes. <i>Heavens, will someone please help me exin this?</i>


    "Father! Father!" Suddenly, the voices of the Dragon Princes could be heard calling out in the distance.


    The guests turned to look and saw, to their surprise, that it was indeed four of the figures who had flown toward Chongtian Hall.


    "My son! You''re finally here!" Ao Shun, his emotions running high, called out.


    <i>Son?</i> The guests stared at Ao Shun in shock.


    "What''s wrong, Father?" the North Sea Dragon Prince asked, confused.


    "Uncle!" the other three Dragon Princes called out immediately.


    "Tell them, tell them who you are to me!" Ao Shun urged desperately.


    The Four Seas Dragon Princes exchanged confused nces,pletely bewildered by the situation.


    <strong>At Chongtian Hall za</strong>


    After meeting the other three honored guests, Zhong Shan refrained from further conversation. Though curious, he chose not to intrude, recognizing that he was not familiar with them. Moreover, he was unsure of their temperaments, and most importantly, this was Ying''s domain. It was best to leave the interactions and introductions to Ying.


    Over the next five days, Zhong Shan had one meeting with L�� Buwei. They discussed various topics, but neither revealed their true intentions or thoughts.


    On the fifth day, which was also Ying''s grand birthday, all of Great Qin''s officials were dressed in their finest attire. Li Si, L�� Buwei, Bai Qi, and other ministers stood in anticipation at the entrance of Chongtian Hall.


    The pces where Zhong Shan, Tathagata Buddha, Bodhi Patriarch, and Lan had resided over the past few days were now cleared. Numerous distinguished guests were gathered outside Chongtian Hall za. Despite their status as honored guests, none dared to speak loudly, as if they were all silently awaiting the momentous event.


    Ying was about to emerge from seclusion.


    A ck mist surrounded Chongtian Hall, the dark waters of Great Qin''s fortunes roiling in the clouds above. Countless golden dragons of fortune roared as they weaved through the cloudyers, their presence filling the air with a sense of impending power.


    Time slowly passed. Suddenly...


    "Buzz!"


    A piercing chime, like that of a jade flute, resonated through the air.


    "Rumble������������������������������������������������!"


    The sky abruptly darkened as thick, heavy clouds began to converge, growing denser and more oppressive by the second. The pressure from above was immense, as if the heavens themselves were descending to capture a being of unimaginable power below. The atmosphere grew so stifling that many of the guests couldn''t bear it, and some had to sit down in meditation to resist the crushing weight from above.


    Zhong Shan looked up at the sky. Within the ck clouds, countless dark figures seemed to be dancing. Staring too long into the clouds made it appear as though celestial maidens were gracefully moving within them.


    Realizing the illusion, Zhong Shan quickly pulled himself out of the trance.


    "Heavenly Demons?" Zhong Shan murmured in surprise.


    "Boom������������������������������������������������!"


    Suddenly, a massive ck pathway, like a celestial road, shot up from within Chongtian Hall. It pierced through the thick ck clouds with a thunderous roar, tearing them apart with its immense power.


    This colossal ck pathway connected heaven and earth, standing tall in the center of Xianyang.


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    A terrifying dragon''s roar echoed across the skies, its power overwhelming. Yet, the roar did note from the golden dragons of fortune, nor from Ao Shun or the other true dragons present. Instead, it emanated from this ck celestial pathway.


    To the shock of all present, a massive ck jade dragon slowly began to manifest within the dark pathway.


    Huge��unbelievably so!


    The ck dragon stretched at least a million miles in length. As it moved, it coiled around the celestial pathway like a colossal dragon wrapped around a pir.


    Yet, this ck dragon appeared to be an integral part of the celestial pathway, indistinguishable from it.


    A strange celestial phenomenon��an enormous ck dragon coiled around a celestial pathway.


    "Roar������������������������������������������������!"


    The ck dragon let out another roar, and the oppressive ck clouds above instantly dissipated, leaving the sky clear. The earth echoed with the majestic voice of the celestial ck dragon, vast and overwhelming.


    All of Great Qin''s citizens and soldiers knelt down in reverence.


    "Sacred King, may your immortality be eternal, and your life as long as the heavens!"


    At the same time, the North Sea Dragon King, Ao Shun, watched with eyes gleaming, filled with excitement and reverence. It was as if he understood the significance of what he was witnessing. <i>A dragon-shaped celestial phenomenon?</i>


    "Boom������������������������������!"


    The doors of Chongtian Hall swung open, and the towering dragon-shaped celestial pathway, along with the ck dragon, abruptly retracted and vanished. Ying was about to emerge.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1020: The Grand Banquet at Chongtian Hall

    <h4>Chapter 1020: The Grand Banquet at Chongtian Hall</h4>


    The dragon-coiled celestial pathway disappeared as the doors of Chongtian Hall swung open.


    "Wee the Sacred King from seclusion! May the Sacred King live forever!" Li Si was the first to speak.


    "Wee the Sacred King from seclusion! May the Sacred King live forever!" The ministers echoed his words, all joining in to celebrate Ying''s emergence.


    After the cheers, everyone fell silent, waiting in anticipation.


    From the darkness of the grand hall, the sound of footsteps gradually grew louder.


    Ying slowly stepped out, his figure emerging into the light at the entrance of Chongtian Hall. A single ray of sunlight fell upon him, causing him to pause for a moment.


    He looked up at the sky with a serene expression.


    Ying was dressed in a ck dragon imperial robe, with a ck jade t-topped crown on his head. His expression was calm, imbued with an aura of profound mystery. It was clear that his cultivation and realm had further advanced during this period of seclusion.


    After gazing at the sky for a moment, Ying slowly turned his eyes to survey the surroundings.


    He first looked at the ministers of Great Qin. As his gaze swept over them, all of Great Qin''s ministers knelt on one knee.


    Li Si, L�� Buwei, Wang Jian, and the other ministers bowed deeply in reverence.


    "Long live the Sacred King!" the ministers shouted in unison.


    Ying said nothing, continuing to look around, his gaze now falling on the thousands of honored guests of Great Qin.


    "The Sacred King of Great Qin, may your blessings be eternal, and your life as long as the heavens!" the thousands of guests intoned solemnly.


    "The Sacred King of Great Qin, may your blessings be eternal, and your life as long as the heavens!" From within Xianyang Sacred City, the voices of all the gathered guests rose in unison, echoing their well-wishes.


    Ying nodded in acknowledgment.


    Finally, Ying''s gaze turned to Zhong Shan and the other three most honored guests.


    The four of them smiled back at Ying, and Ying nodded to them as well.


    Then, Ying turned his attention to an elderly eunuch dressed in ck robes.


    "Zhao Gao, begin," Ying ordered calmly.


    "Let the feast begin!" Zhao Gao announced loudly.


    Immediately, the call to begin the feast spread throughout Xianyang Sacred City. Music started ying from all directions, and the city erupted into a lively and festive atmosphere.


    Outside Chongtian Hall, guards swiftly set up numerous banquet tables. For ordinary people, this would have been a tedious task, but for the people of the Sacred Court, it was done with ease. With a wave of a hand, countless tables were perfectly arranged.


    The honored guests who had received invitations to the banquet were all gathered at Chongtian Hall za, where they could see Ying up close. The closer their seats were to Ying, the higher the level of their invitation.


    Naturally, Zhong Shan and hispanions were seated closest to Ying.


    The grand banquet took ce right at Chongtian Hall za, with Ying''s Nine Dragon Throne ced at the entrance of Chongtian Hall.


    Zhong Shan, Tathagata Buddha, Bodhi Patriarch, and Lan were seated at tables on either side of Ying''s throne.


    Bodhi Patriarch sat at the first table on the left, Tathagata Buddha at the second table on the left, Lan at the first table on the right, and Zhong Shan at the second table on the right.


    Those who had apanied Zhong Shan were seated at secondary tables directly behind him.


    Ying nced around, then raised a cup of wine. All the guests focused on Ying, and seeing him lift his cup, they fell silent.


    Ying spoke solemnly, "Today is my grand birthday. First, I toast Great Qin! And second, I thank all the honored guests!"


    With that, Ying drank his cup of celebratory wine.


    "The Sacred King of Great Qin, may you live forever!" the other guests raised their cups and echoed Ying''s toast.


    Ying nodded in acknowledgment, then shifted his focus from the remaining guests to the group that included Zhong Shan. This group was unique��Tathagata Buddha, Bodhi Patriarch, and Lan each had their own table, but Zhong Shan''s table had two people seated at it: Zhong Shan and Hao Meili.


    Noticing this, Ying''s expression changed slightly. He knew Zhong Shan well enough to understand that he wouldn''t have a woman sitting beside him in such a formal setting without a good reason��it was against protocol. Moreover, Ying recognized this woman.


    "Is this the princess of the Heavenly Court?" Ying asked, though his gaze was fixed on Zhong Shan.


    "The Jade Emperor could note personally, so he sent me to Qin to wish Great Qin eternal longevity," Hao Meili responded confidently.


    Zhong Shan nodded in agreement beside her.


    "Haotian? Indeed, he is unable to attend. However, since he sent you, you are also a distinguished guest of Great Qin. Set another table!" Ying ordered.


    "Yes!" Zhao Gao immediately responded.


    "There''s no need. I''ll sit beside Zhong Shan��this arrangement suits me just fine," Hao Meili quickly interjected.


    Ying considered her for a moment before nodding. After all, these were minor details, and the offer to set another table had been made out of respect for the Jade Emperor.


    At that moment, Lan spoke up from the side. "Your personal path, the ck Dragon coiling around the pir... Ying, you''ve reached that stage, haven''t you?"


    Zhong Shan knew that Lan was referring to the ck Dragon entwined with the celestial pathway from earlier, but what exactly was this "personal path"?


    Zhong Shan didn''t fully understand, but he remained attentive, listening closely without interrupting.


    Tathagata and Bodhi Patriarch also turned their attention to Ying.


    "The Heavenly Court is not so easily forged. Otherwise, over these tens of thousands of years, there would be more than just Haotian''s Heavenly Court," Ying responded with a faint smile.


    <i>The Heavenly Court?</i> Zhong Shan''s ears perked up. Was Ying nning to establish another Heavenly Court��Great Qin''s Heavenly Court? Could it be that creating a Heavenly Court required a unique personal path?


    Lan nodded in agreement.


    Ying then turned his gaze toward Bodhi Patriarch.


    "Mr. Guiguzi''s calctions��let''s hope they weren''t mistaken," Ying said seriously.


    Bodhi Patriarch nodded, replying, "Whether right or wrong, I will remember Guiguzi''s efforts. Guiguzi greatly expended his energy for this. I regret that he suffered such a loss, but once his predictiones to pass, I willpensate him for it."


    Ying nodded again, giving Bodhi Patriarch a meaningful look.


    Though the others couldn''t decipher the exact details of their conversation, it was clear that whatever they were discussing was of great importance.


    Zhong Shan didn''t ask any questions, but he mentally noted the exchange. <i>Guiguzi''s calctions? He possesses the innate Eight Trigrams Diagram, and with Fuxi''s divination technique, even so, it caused a great loss of energy? What exactly did he calcte?</i>


    After addressing Bodhi Patriarch, Ying turned his attention to Tathagata.


    "Lord Buddha, what stance does the Great Leiyin Temple take?" Ying asked.


    "We are aligned with you," Tathagata replied calmly.


    "Is that your decision?" Ying pressed, staring intently at Tathagata.


    "It is my decision, and it is also the will of Amitabha," Tathagata answered firmly.


    "Good!" Ying eximed, clearly pleased.


    Tathagata nodded in acknowledgment.


    Finally, Ying turned his gaze to Zhong Shan.


    "Saint King Zhong Shan, I am honored by your presence at this grand banquet. ording to Mr. Guiguzi''s calctions, the greatest oue of the battle in the Nuwa Realm was not won by me or Mr. Guiguzi, but by you, Zhong Shan. I have never underestimated you, and I raise my ss to you in respect," Ying said, lifting his filled cup of wine in a toast.


    This was the first toast Ying made individually.


    Almost everyone turned their gaze towards Zhong Shan. Most of the thousands of honored guests did not know who Zhong Shan was, and seeing Ying''s respect for him, they couldn''t help but be surprised. <i>Who is this person? Could he be more highly regarded by Ying than even Tathagata Buddha or Bodhi Patriarch? Why else would Ying toast Zhong Shan first before anyone else?</i>


    Tathagata Buddha and Bodhi Patriarch also found themselves curious about Zhong Shan, while Sun Shen, who was seated at the secondary table behind Bodhi Patriarch, wore a grim expression.


    Although Sun Shen hadn''t had much direct interaction with Zhong Shan, he carried memories from the Small Thousand World��memories of being outdone by Zhong Shan at every turn. From the time when Zhong Shan was a mere unknown, to bing Marquis Gu Xuan, then the Supreme of the Monkey n, and finally the current Sun Qitian, it seemed that Sun Shen had never managed to gain the upper hand against Zhong Shan. This left a bitter taste in Sun Shen''s mouth, and a growing resentment towards Zhong Shan.


    As for Lan, he too was intrigued by Zhong Shan. Lan knew Ying''s nature well. Even Saints found it hard to outmaneuver Ying, especially when it came topetition for treasures. Lan had heard that during the battle in the Nuwa Realm, Ying had seized the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram from three Saints. Yet, despite such a significant gain, Ying still considered Zhong Shan''s acquisition even greater. <i>This man is truly remarkable,</i> Lan thought.


    "Just luck," Zhong Shan said as he raised his cup.


    Zhong Shan did not deny Ying''s words because there was no point in doing so. Although it appeared on the surface that Zhong Shan hadn''t gained much, only Zhong Shan knew the true extent of his acquisitions��far greater than the Innate Eight Trigrams Diagram. For example, there was the Fox Realm, the Wind Tomb Territory, and several other hidden treasures.


    The two drank their cups of wine together.


    After toasting Zhong Shan individually, Ying proceeded to toast Lan, Bodhi Patriarch, and Tathagata Buddha in turn.


    After making the round of toasts, Ying turned to Zhao Gao and instructed, "Bring it here."


    "Yes!" Zhao Gao replied.


    Ying looked at the gathered guests and solemnly said, "I am grateful to each of you foring to Great Qin. Of course, I can''t let you leave empty-handed. Next, I will reveal something to add to the celebration."


    At that moment, Zhao Gao, along with several guards, began to bring in a massive object, about ten zhang (approximately 100 feet) tall, covered with a ck cloth, making it impossible to see what was inside.


    The object was cylindrical, with a diameter also around ten zhang.


    "Boom!"


    The cylindrical object was set down in the center of the za, and with a wave of his hand, Zhao Gao ordered the guards to remove the ck cloth, revealing a giant golden cylinder underneath. The cylinder gleamed as if made of pure gold, radiating a dazzling light that was almost blinding in its brilliance.


    Most people had no idea what this object was, their eyes filled with curiosity.


    Lan, Bodhi Patriarch, and Tathagata Buddha, however, became visibly more serious.


    "Ying, you''ve truly outdone yourself," Lan remarked suddenly.


    "A grand birthday like this only happens once in a lifetime," Ying replied with a smile and a shake of his head.


    Zhong Shan didn''t understand what he was looking at, but he could sense the immense energy emanating from the golden cylinder. Even the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail within his Niwan Pce instinctively reacted with excitement.


    As Zhong Shan studied the object, he heard Mr. Corpse''s voice in his ear.


    "Sacred King, this is a Fate Seal, a device that uses fate as a barrier to seal ancient spiritual treasures," Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Fate?"


    Indeed, the golden hue of the cylinder felt simr to the energy of fate Zhong Shan had encountered before, though he had only ever seen it in spherical forms like small suns. This cylindrical form had caught him off guard.


    "Some ancient spiritual items are as fleeting as the bloom of a flower, appearing only briefly and then disappearing, unable to be preserved. The Fate Seal was developed to store such ancient spiritual treasures, preventing them from vanishing. Any treasure sealed within fate is an extraordinary, one-of-a-kind existence," Mr. Corpse continued.


    It was clear that Mr. Corpse had a deep understanding of ancient knowledge.


    "Unseal it!" Yingmanded solemnly.


    "Yes!" Zhao Gao responded.


    At this moment, nearly everyone''s attention was fixed on the central object, eager to see whaty inside.


    Zhao Gao approached the cylinder, a golden light shing in his hand as he reached out and touched the cylindrical object.


    "Boom!"


    The cylinder, which seemed so solid, suddenly shattered with a thunderous explosion. Brilliant golden light shot out in all directions, enveloping every guest in its radiance.


    "Ah!"


    Some people cried out in fear, expecting harm, but instead, they felt an incredible sense offort. The energy of fate entered their bodies, purifying them. How could such a thing cause harm? This outburst of fate was Ying''s first gift to the guests��a blessing that left them all in awe.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1021: The Nine-Path Thirteen Lotus

    <h4>Chapter 1021: The Nine-Path Thirteen Lotus</h4>


    The fate energy surged outward, purifying the bodies of the guests. Some of the weaker cultivators even broke through their bottlenecks under the influence of the fate energy. Those who did not break through still received significant benefits from the experience.


    However, Zhong Shan remained unfazed, his body like a mountain, unshaken by the torrent of fate energy washing over him.


    At this moment, though, the guests'' attention shifted from the fate energy to what remained after its dispersal��a pool, ten zhang in diameter.


    Within the pool was a dark liquid, almost like ck water, but with a smoky appearance. Zhong Shan immediately recognized the substance as <i>habitual energy,</i> and not just any habitual energy��this was a concentration so dense that it had be liquid. It was far more potent than what Zhong Shan had encountered before, even surpassing what he had seen in the Blood Pool of Ghosts, where Mr. Corpse had disyed his massive coffin.


    But the key was not the liquid; it was the tree that grew from it. The tree stood seven zhang tall, its entire form a pure, crystalline white. From the tree''s nine branches, each one bore a lotus flower��each a thirteen-petaled white lotus, ethereal and dreamlike, yet appearing exceptionally sacred.


    This was a treasure, an extraordinary treasure.


    It was said that the greatest treasure of the ancient Sage Jieyin was the Twelve-Petaled Golden Lotus, a powerful artifact in its prime. Yet here were thirteen-petaled white lotuses, even more potent than the legendary golden lotus. Just looking at them imparted a sense of spiritual cleansing.


    Such a treasure, and nine of them at once? When did white lotuses ever grow on trees?


    "The Nine-Path Thirteen Lotus... I can''t believe you actually found it," Lan said, his voice filled with awe.


    The guests, aware of the treasure''s value, looked expectantly at Ying, unsure of what to do.


    "This is a gift for all the guests. Great Qin will not im even a single piece, and if no one takes it, Great Qin will leave it behind," Ying dered firmly.


    Upon hearing this, the guests became even more excited. This was a treasure of the highest caliber,parable to the artifacts of Ancestor Immortals. But who would it go to?


    "This is the Nine-Path Thirteen Lotus. Whether or not you can take it depends on your abilities. But be warned, there isn''t much time. By sunset, this pool of habitual energy and the Nine-Path Thirteen Lotus will disperse into the heavens and earth. Once obtained, it must be refined immediately," Ying exined.


    With that, Ying extended his hand, signaling that everyone was eligible to try and im the treasure.


    The guests exchanged nces until finally, one brave soul stepped forward. He flew up to one of the thirteen-petaled white lotuses and, under the envious eyes of the crowd, reached out to grab it.


    "Whoosh!"


    His hand passed right through the lotus as if it were a mere illusion, grasping nothing.


    "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"


    He tried again and again, each time with the same result��nothing.


    "Impossible!" the man muttered anxiously. It wasn''t just about failing to grab the lotus; it was also about the embarrassment of failing in front of so many people.


    "Daoist Li, step back!" someone called out from the crowd.


    The man, his face flushed with shame, retreated.


    Then, several more guests attempted to seize the lotuses, but no matter how hard they tried, they couldn''t catch them. The lotuses seemed to be nothing more than shadows.


    After numerous failed attempts, the guests looked at Ying in disbelief. Was this some kind of joke?


    "Master, is this fake?" Sun Shen asked Bodhi Patriarch quietly.


    Although Sun Shen''s voice was low, many heard his question and perked up, eager to hear the answer.


    "How could the Nine-Path Thirteen Lotus be fake? It is a natural spiritual treasure, but it''s not something just anyone can im," Bodhi Patriarch replied, shaking his head.


    Upon hearing this, the guests who had failed to grasp the treasure sighed deeply.


    Ying, however, simply smiled. While the earlier guests were considered honored in Great Qin, they did not have the standing to im such a significant treasure. The Nine-Path Thirteen Lotus was special by its very nature. Ying had made no alterations to it; its uniqueness was inherent. This treasure was meant for only the most distinguished guests��those whom Ying deemed worthy. Only they would have the ability and right to im it.


    With this exnation, all the guests had no reason toin. If theycked the ability to im the treasure, it was their own shoring. The fact that the treasure was reserved for the most distinguished guests made it clear that it wasn''t something to be taken lightly, and Ying had his own ns in mind.


    "I''ll give it a try!" Sun Shen called out.


    Greed shed in Sun Shen''s eyes as he flew towards the Nine-Path Thirteen Lotus. Each of the thirteen-petaled white lotuses was a treasure of Ancestor Immortal caliber. How could Sun Shen not covet such an opportunity? He knew it would be a test of his abilities.


    No one stopped him as he made his attempt. The ordinary guests had already tried and failed, unable to im the lotuses.


    Sun Shen reached out with his hand, channeling his powerful spells to grab the lotus.


    "Whoosh!"


    His hand passed right through the lotus, his expression changing to one of frustration. He tried again with the second lotus.


    "Whoosh!"


    Again, he failed to grasp it.


    He continued until he had attempted to seize all nine lotuses, yet there was no reaction at all.


    "What is this nonsense?" Sun Shen muttered in frustration as he descended.


    "Thud!"


    Hended near the ck water pool, but instead of stepping into the water, he found himself standing on solid ground, as if the ck water was merely an illusion.


    "What is this thing?" Sun Shen muttered anxiously, moving around inside the pool, but finding nothing of value.


    "Hee-hee, this guy''s jumping around like a monkey!" Hao Meili suddenly giggled from the side.


    Hearing her mocking words, Sun Shen''s face turned sour, and he nced over with a look of resentment.


    "Hmph, big monkey!" Hao Meili retorted, unafraid of Sun Shen''s re.


    "Come back, Sun Shen. The Nine-Path Thirteen Lotus isn''t something you can obtain through brute force. Only an Ancestor Immortal using the power of the Heavenly Dao, or some special technique, can retrieve it," Bodhi Patriarch said with a shake of his head.


    "Yes, Master," Sun Shen replied, though his face still showed reluctance.


    "It''s fading! The tree is fading!" a guest suddenly eximed.


    Sure enough, the white tree within the ck water pool began to fade away, just as Ying had warned. It was starting to disperse into the heavens and earth.


    "You''d better make your move now, or it will be gone soon," Ying urged the others, looking towards Tathagata and the others.


    "I''ll go first," Tathagata said to the group.


    With everyone''s approval, Tathagata stepped forward.


    Seeing the Buddha make his move, nearly everyone held their breath.


    Tathagata extended his right hand, and with a sh of golden light, he enveloped one of the thirteen-petaled white lotuses. He gently plucked it from the tree branch.


    As soon as the lotus was removed, the branch from which it had been taken began to wither rapidly, disappearing within moments as if it had never existed.


    The thirteen-petaled white lotus, now in Tathagata''s hand, seemed to shrink slightly, trembling as if alive. Tathagata carefully held it, slowly walking back to his ce.


    "I must begin the refinement process immediately. Please continue," Tathagata said as he began to refine the lotus.


    "Master, why is he in such a hurry?" Sun Shen asked Bodhi Patriarch.


    "Don''t speak out of ignorance. This thirteen-petaled white lotus will dissipate into the heavens and earth if not refined immediately," Bodhi Patriarch admonished.


    "Oh! Master, hurry! You must go next!" Sun Shen urged anxiously.


    Bodhi Patriarch shook his head slightly and stepped forward. With a gentle green light emanating from his palm, he reached out and, just like Tathagata before him, plucked one of the thirteen-petaled white lotuses.


    After securing the lotus, Bodhi Patriarch returned to his seat and immediately began the process of refining it.


    "Let''s not be shy. Ying has been so generous; we should take advantage of this opportunity," Lan said with a smile.


    Lan, apanied by two of his subordinates, approached the tree. Each of them extended a hand, effortlessly plucking a lotus. In a single motion, they imed three of the remaining thirteen-petaled white lotuses.


    This scene left everyone momentarily stunned.


    "Didn''t Bodhi Patriarch say that only Ancestor Immortals or those with special methods could pluck the lotuses?" one of the guests asked in disbelief.


    "Yes, and Lan is likely an Ancestor Immortal. But his two subordinates... they seem so casual about it. Could they be...?" another guest spected.


    "Could they be what?"


    "Could they also be Ancestor Immortals?"


    "...!"


    The realization that Lan had Ancestor Immortals as subordinates shocked nearly everyone present.


    Ying''s choice of Lan as the first guest to his right made perfect sense now. Such a powerful figure,manding Ancestor Immortals as mere subordinates, was beyond extraordinary.


    Zhong Shan, too, was surprised, casting an intrigued nce at Lan. He had known Lan was an Ancestor Immortal, but he hadn''t expected Lan''s subordinates to be of the same level. This was something Zhong Shan made a mental note to investigate further.


    "Zhong Shan, it''s your turn. The thirteen-petaled white lotuses are about to dissipate," Ying said with a smile.


    Ying was curious about Zhong Shan''s capabilities, interested in seeing how much strength Zhong Shan could demonstrate.


    Zhong Shan had been waiting for this moment. He hadn''t held back out of politeness but because he had other desires in mind. The moment the Nine-Path Thirteen Lotus had appeared, the Eye of Heavenly Retribution within Zhong Shan''s divine realm had suddenly opened. This was the first time it had ever shown such eagerness.


    The Eye of Heavenly Retribution wasn''t interested in the thirteen-petaled white lotuses; it wanted the pool of liquid below��the pool of habitual energy. This liquid, transformed into its current state by some secret method, was something the Eye of Heavenly Retribution desired.


    Habitual energy was said to be a power controlled only by Sages, a power Zhong Shan didn''t fully understand. But he knew that the Eye of Heavenly Retribution wanted it, and that was enough.


    "Zhong Shan, hurry! It''s fading away!" Hao Meili urged, her voice filled with excitement.


    "Can you retrieve one?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "I''ll give it a try. I might be able to!" Hao Meili replied, her voice brimming with excitement.


    "In that case, let''s go!" Zhong Shan said, turning to the others behind him.


    Behind him sat Mr. Corpse, Nangong Sheng, Luo Xingchen, the Western Poison Emperor, and Little Gold Dragon.


    Zhong Shan''s words were clear: whoever could retrieve a lotus shoulde along.


    Zhong Shan understood Ying''s intentions. While the treasure was a gift, it was also a test. Soon, there would likely be a task requiring everyone''s assistance. Given that, Zhong Shan saw no need to hold back.


    As soon as Zhong Shan finished speaking, he and the eager Hao Meili stood up.


    Mr. Corpse also rose, followed by Luo Xingchen.


    Seeing the four of them step forward, the crowd couldn''t help but feel a wave of surprise.


    "There are only four lotuses left. Could they really take all of them?" someone muttered with a frown.


    "Zhong Shan? Is that the Zhong Shan from Saint Corpse Mountain?"


    Curiosity ran high among the crowd, and Sun Shen''s eyes flickered with disdain and scorn. From what he knew from Bodhi Patriarch, this group didn''t seem strong enough to im such a treasure.


    Ying, however, watched with a serious expression. On the other side, Lan also observed closely, paying full attention to Zhong Shan and his group.


    The four of them approached the pool, which was slowly fading away.


    "You go first," Zhong Shan said.


    "Alright!" Hao Meili said eagerly.


    "Yes," Mr. Corpse and Luo Xingchen both nodded in agreement.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1022: A Great Commotion

    <h4>Chapter 1022: A Great Commotion</h4>


    The ordinary guests watched intently, with no trace of disdain. They didn''t know much about Zhong Shan''s background, but anyone who could sit among Ying''s honored guests was certainly no ordinary person. They expected something impressive, just as they had seen earlier with Lan and his subordinates.


    Sun Shen, however, had heard from Bodhi Patriarch about the strength of Zhong Shan''s group. Not a single Ancestor Immortal among them, and the weakest was merely a Heavenly Immortal. To Sun Shen, this group was merely putting on a show. He sneered, thinking he saw the truth of the situation: what they perceived as mountains were not mountains, and what they saw as water was not water.


    But Ying didn''t evaluate Zhong Shan based on his cultivation level. If Ying didn''t have faith in Zhong Shan, he wouldn''t have made him an honored guest. Ying wasn''t focused on Zhong Shan''s current level of power but on his potential and abilities. Ying valued Zhong Shan, even if he were only a Heavenly Immortal. What mattered was not Zhong Shan''s strength but who he was as a person, and Ying''s perspective reflected a deeper understanding: what others saw as mountains and water, Ying saw as true mountains and true water.


    This contrast highlighted the difference in the perception and insight of those present.


    Zhong Shan allowed his subordinates to attempt to im the treasures first, and they naturally obeyed. Hao Meili was the quickest to act, while Mr. Corpse and Luo Xingchen stepped back to let her go first.


    Hao Meili reached out to grab one of the lotuses.


    "Whoosh!"


    Her first attempt failed.


    "Heh!" Sun Shen let out a derisiveugh from a distance.


    The guests were slightly surprised by this oue.


    "You want to mess with me? Do you want me to curse you?" Hao Meili whispered menacingly to the thirteen-petaled white lotus.


    The guests were left speechless.


    "Hahaha!" Sun Shenughed loudly and mockingly.


    Although Hao Meili''s voice was low, everyone present was a cultivator with sharp hearing, so they all caught her words. The guests may not have been as discerning as some, but they weren''t fools. To be an honored guest of Ying''s was no trivial matter, and certainly not something to be ridiculed��except, it seemed, by Sun Shen, who, emboldened by his connection to Bodhi Patriarch and his personal grudge against Zhong Shan,ughed openly at the scene.


    Just as Sun Shen''sughter rang out, Hao Meili reached out once more.


    "Snap!"


    Hao Meili effortlessly plucked a thirteen-petaled white lotus from the tree.


    Sun Shen''sughter abruptly stopped, his throat feeling as though it had been tightly squeezed. It was as if all the mockery he had dished out had backfired, leaving him feeling like he had been ridiculing himself.


    "Zhong Shan, I''ll head back to my seat and start refining this," Hao Meili said cheerfully.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    The crowd erupted into a flurry of murmurs and exmations.


    <i>Is that all it took? Is this thirteen-petaled white lotus that easy to tame? Just scold it, and it obeys?</i> Many in the crowd looked regretful, thinking they should have tried the same approach.


    Hao Meili returned to her seat, followed by a multitude of curious and astonished nces.


    Ying, Lan, Tathagata, and Bodhi Patriarch all took a moment to give Hao Meili a deep, thoughtful look.


    As everyone was still processing Hao Meili''s unorthodox method, the second person made their move.


    Luo Xingchen stepped forward. Having witnessed Hao Meili''s sess, no one doubted Zhong Shan''s group anymore.


    Sun Shen, meanwhile, watched with envy.


    Luo Xingchen, having observed the previous attempts, knew better than to repeat Hao Meili''s method. Instead of trying to grab the lotus directly, he approached with careful consideration, fully aware that the usual approach would not work.


    Luo Xingchen approached one of the thirteen-petaled white lotuses, the blue gemstone on his forehead glowing faintly. As he extended his right hand, a soft blue light enveloped it, radiating an aura of absolute tranquility. Even the wind seemed to halt near the light, only resuming its movement once his hand passed.


    Positioning his hand beneath the lotus, Luo Xingchen focused his gaze.


    "Reverse!"


    Instantly, the thirteen-petaled white lotus emitted a blinding white light. Momentster, Luo Xingchen effortlessly plucked the lotus, just like Tathagata and Bodhi Patriarch had done before him��but there was something different.


    Tathagata, Bodhi Patriarch, and others had used the power of the Heavenly Dao, but Luo Xingchen had used a divine ability, a <i>time maniption</i> technique, the Ninth Divine Ability in the world.


    Tathagata and Bodhi Patriarch exchanged a look of mild surprise. Such a person, wielding the power of time, had willingly chosen to serve Zhong Shan?


    "Saint King!" Luo Xingchen said as he held up the lotus.


    "Go ahead and start refining it," Zhong Shan instructed.


    "Yes!" Luo Xingchen returned to his seat, leaving the guests in awe. Sun Shen''s expression darkened further, his envy growing with each sessful retrieval.


    Ying and Lan, their curiosity piqued, turned their attention to Zhong Shan and his final subordinate. After the strange methods used by Hao Meili and Luo Xingchen, they were eager to see what the ck-robed Mr. Corpse would do.


    One lotus had responded to curses, another to time maniption. What method would Mr. Corpse use?


    "Go ahead," Zhong Shan said calmly.


    "Understood," Mr. Corpse replied, nodding.


    As everyone watched with bated breath, Mr. Corpse did somethingpletely unexpected. Reaching into his robe, he pulled out a pair of white gloves.


    As Mr. Corpse slowly and carefully put on the gloves, a ripple of confusion spread through the crowd. <i>What is he doing?</i> they wondered.


    With the gloves on, Mr. Corpse reached out and gently plucked the thirteen-petaled white lotus.


    "Snap!"


    The lotus was detached from the tree with surprising ease, leaving the crowd in stunned silence.


    "Wait, that''s all it took?" someone muttered incredulously.


    The simplicity of the act was almost insulting. Some of the more simple-minded guests were on the verge of frustration��<i>I have gloves too! Why didn''t I think to wear them?</i>


    Sun Shen was no longer just envious or hateful; he waspletely bewildered and frustrated.


    Ying, Lan, Bodhi Patriarch, and Tathagata all focused intently on the gloves Mr. Corpse wore. They knew those gloves were no ordinary item. But the fact that such gloves could sever the connection to such a powerful treasure intrigued them even more.


    <i>Just who is this Mr. Corpse?</i> they wondered.


    Zhong Shan''s subordinates had proven themselves to be extraordinary.


    After bowing slightly to Zhong Shan, Mr. Corpse returned to his seat, leaving the remaining guests with a mix of admiration and frustration. Some even wished they could borrow those gloves for a moment.


    Now, only Zhong Shan remained, with the final thirteen-petaled white lotus left to im.


    Zhong Shan didn''t rush to im the final lotus. Instead, he circled the massive ck pool, scrutinizing it from every angle. The onlookers were filled with curiosity, but no one doubted Zhong Shan''s ability to retrieve the lotus. After all, if his subordinates could do it, how could he not? They were simply intrigued by what Zhong Shan was up to.


    Afterpleting a full circle around the pool, Zhong Shan returned to his original position. Instead of reaching out to grab the lotus, he fixed his gaze on the pool, and suddenly, a sh of purple light appeared in his eyes.


    "Whoooshhhhh!"


    An overwhelming and terrifying aura surged from Zhong Shan''s body, causing a wave of unease to sweep over the crowd. The weaker cultivators among the guests immediately sat down in meditation, attempting to stabilize their spirits.


    This immense and fearsome aura induced a deep, soul-level tremor in everyone present. Even someone as powerful as Sun Shen felt a chill in his soul.


    "Is... is this really just a Grand Immortal?" Sun Shen muttered in disbelief.


    But no one paid attention to Sun Shen''s words at that moment. Tathagata, Bodhi Patriarch, Ying, and Lan all focused intently on Zhong Shan, their expressions growing serious.


    <i>What kind of aura is this?</i> they wondered.


    Before anyone couldment, they saw what appeared to be a massive spatial rift opening in front of Zhong Shan. From this rift came a powerful suction force, pulling the ck water from the pool as if rivers were flowing into the sea.


    This was Zhong Shan''s <i>Divine Realm,</i> where the Eye of Heavenly Retribution resided. The Eye had been impatiently waiting, and now, as it shed with purple light, it began to devour the habitual energy with a frenzy. The vast amounts of energy were drawn directly into the Eye of Heavenly Retribution, where they were immediately absorbed.


    Suck, suck, suck!


    The ck pool seemed like a bottomless pit, constantly generating more habitual energy even as the Eye of Heavenly Retribution consumed it. But the suction force from the Eye grew stronger and stronger, to the point where even the ck pool struggled to keep up.


    The Nine-Path Thirteen Lotus had been nurtured by the heavens, and this ck pool was an integral part of that process. The pool itself was connected to thews of the world, drawing habitual energy from all directions as Zhong Shan continued to absorb it.


    Massive currents of habitual energy surged toward the pool from all around, each one adding to the already dense ck energy that surrounded Zhong Shan. This ck energy was so concentrated that it appeared pitch-ck, like ink.


    The Eye of Heavenly Retribution showed no restraint, absorbing more and more, causing the ck energy to thicken around Zhong Shan. Soon, the entire center of the za was enveloped in a dark, inky cloud.


    The pressure from this gathering energy grew stronger and stronger, so much so that even Tathagata, Bodhi Patriarch, Ying, and Lan unconsciously stood up, their expressions filled with shock.


    "Whooooshhhhh!"


    Suddenly, the sky above was filled with dark clouds, covering the entire Xianyang Sacred City. The festive atmosphere that had filled the city just moments before came to an abrupt halt as all sounds ceased.


    The atmosphere carried the ominous presence of a Heavenly Tribtion, an immense force that threatened to unleash devastating thunderbolts to eradicate the emerging power below.


    What made this even more terrifying was that the dark clouds, while brewing immense power, began to turn red, filled with a bloodthirsty and malevolent aura.


    As the ck habitual energy continued to engulf the area, Zhong Shan allowed the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail to devour the final thirteen-petaled white lotus. He then turned his attention inward to his Divine Realm.


    Inside the Divine Realm, the Eye of Heavenly Retribution was still fiercely absorbing the habitual energy, filling the sky above with a dark mist. But this was merely a side effect. What truly shocked Zhong Shan were the fifty towering pirs that had begun to form within his Divine Realm, barely perceptible but unmistakably there.


    These pirs were the embryonic forms of the Heavenly Dao! Zhong Shan was astonished.


    <i>Is my Divine Realm no longer content with merely replicatingws? Is it beginning to touch upon the Heavenly Dao itself?</i>


    The Eye of Heavenly Retribution seemed to be evolving, transforming into something monstrous and unparalleled in power. Although these pirs were still in their infancy, they were gradually bing more solid. And there weren''t just fifty pirs anymore; as Zhong Shan watched, a fifty-first pir began to take shape.


    <i>The Eye of Heavenly Retribution... is it undergoing a terrifying evolution?</i> Zhong Shan marveled. <i>It''s starting to replicate the Heavenly Dao itself... and it''s still growing...</i>


    <i>To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8 </i>

 Chapter 1023: The Punishment of Heaven

    <h4>Chapter 1023: The Punishment of Heaven</h4>


    In the Divine Realm of Zhong Shan!


    Zhong Shan stood atop the rolling earth, gazing into the distance at everything before him. The ground beneath him was continuously solidifying with each passing moment, bing increasingly more real. The entire Divine Realm was undergoing an earth-shattering transformation.


    Above, the Eye of Heavenly Punishment was surrounded by thick ck mist. Terrifying auras were being crazily absorbed by the Eye, and through these auras, it seemed as though the Eye was touching upon the very essence of the Heavenly Dao, rapidly replicating its embryonic form.


    The Three Thousand Heavenly Daos of the Grand World!


    In the blink of an eye, sixty embryonic forms of the Heavenly Dao had already appeared in the Divine Realm. Though these were merely embryonic forms, they carried a vast and boundless power, shaking the heavens and the earth with their magnificence.


    The entire Divine Realm was solidifying amidst the rumbling sounds of this transformation.


    Outside, the red clouds in the sky grew thicker and more intense, exerting an ever-increasing pressure on the Holy Capital of Xianyang. The terrifying aura weighed so heavily that the people felt as though they could hardly breathe. At this moment, all of Xianyang was silent. Even the usually calm and indifferent expression of the Buddha, Tathagata, twitched slightly.


    Patriarch Bodhi raised his head to the sky, a flicker of worry shing in his eyes.


    Lan''s curiosity toward Zhong Shan grew even more intense as he watched.


    Ying let out a faint, bitter smile. He knew Zhong Shan was extraordinary, but he never expected him to be this extraordinary. Such amotion, and today was his own grand birthday celebration!


    Suddenly, a ck-robed figure appeared beside Ying.


    "Holy King, what is this?" the ck-robed figure asked, a trace of surprise in his voice.


    "Sir? Did this disturbance rm you? How is your recovery?" Ying inquired.


    "Just about there. When I noticed the change in the heavens and earth, I thought it had begun, but it seems I was mistaken!" the ck-robed figure replied with a slight bow.


    After speaking, the ck-robed figure vanished.


    Above the red clouds in the sky, the terrifying aura began to converge onto the square of the Chongtian Hall, as if some peerless fiend was present there.


    Within the red clouds, faint strands of purple energy slowly emerged.


    Seeing this purple energy, Ying, Lan, Tathagata, and Bodhi all grew serious.


    "What is this? Could Zhong Shan have rmed...?" Tathagata''s expression showed a trace of concern.


    "Boom!" The ck mist around Zhong Shan suddenly dispersed, revealing his figure once more.


    The ck pool was gone, as were the nine thirteen-petaled lotuses. The ck mist had ceased, and Zhong Shan stopped absorbing it. It wasn''t that he couldn''t absorb more, but rather that he dared not. As the might of the heavens descended, the Red Luan Pink Lotus abruptly turned a deep blue, an omen of great misfortune!


    Zhong Shan decisively halted the Eye of Heavenly Punishment from absorbing any further. Sixty embryonic forms of the Heavenly Dao��he was already more than satisfied. Power is only valuable if one has the life to bear it.


    Upon leaving the Divine Realm, Zhong Shan immediately felt the vastness of the Heavenly Might, the aura of destruction piercing straight to his heart. He couldn''t help but feel a lingering fear.


    In the sky, the endless red clouds were about to deliver punishment when, suddenly, the aura of that peerless fiend vanished?


    Reluctantly, the red clouds lingered in the sky for a while before slowly dissipating. Zhong Shan noticed that at the Chongtian Hall, nearly all the ordinary guests were sitting cross-legged, withrge beads of sweat dripping from their foreheads��clearly forced out by the oppressive red clouds. It was terrifying.


    As for Nangong Sheng and the others, they were protected by Ying and were unharmed.


    However, at this moment, whether it was Tathagata, Bodhi, Lan, or Ying, they all looked at Zhong Shan with a slightly strange expression.


    Their expressions were indeed odd. The four of them should have long reached the state of being unaffected by external events, yet they still found Zhong Shan unfathomable. His entire being seemed like an enigma.


    As for Sun Shen, who stood behind Patriarch Bodhi, his face twitched uncontrobly, unsure of how to react to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan returned to Ying and said, "I apologize for causing concern among everyone just now."


    "Concerned? This was sheer recklessness!"


    Of course, Ying''s magnanimity was vast, and he shook his head with a smile, saying, "Zhong Shan, you always manage to stir up something earth-shattering whenever you appear. Just now, you almost triggered the Punishment of Heaven!"


    The Punishment of Heaven! At the mention of this term, all the distinguished guests couldn''t help but take a deeper look at Zhong Shan.


    What is the Punishment of Heaven? Back in the day, the fall of the Seven Saints was due to the Punishment of Heaven!


    The Punishment of Heaven��what kind of immense transgression would it take to provoke such a punishment? Did Zhong Shan''s actions just now reach that level of sin? If not, then what exactly happened? Ordinary cultivators might not be able to discern the situation, but how could the four great leaders here fail to notice? Could the Buddha, Tathagata, not see it? Could Ying not see it? They all saw it, and it was precisely because they saw it that they were filled with deep admiration and curiosity about what Zhong Shan had done. What did he just do?


    Shrouded in ominous energy, none of them could probe the depths of the situation, yet Zhong Shan had managed tomit such a colossal act right under their noses.


    And after it was done, he just patted the dust off his clothes, as if nothing had happened.


    The group continued to scrutinize Zhong Shan, their gazes roaming over him without pause! The only difference was that Zhong Shan''s cultivation had increased. Indeed, being enveloped by such boundless ominous energy, increasing one''s cultivation wasn''t difficult. But no one knew that this was because the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail had devoured the Thirteenth Grade White Lotus.


    Eighth Heaven of the Great Immortal Realm!


    But it was precisely this Great Immortal Realm that left everyone conflicted��how could a mere Great Immortal provoke the Punishment of Heaven? In the past, they would have scoffed at the idea. Only the mightiest of Ancestral Immortals could even touch upon the level of the Punishment of Heaven, yet a single Great Immortal had aplished it.


    No one knew what to say!


    "The Punishment of Heaven?" Zhong Shan was also startled. No wonder the Red Luan Pink Lotus had shown a sign of great misfortune earlier.


    On the square, the guests slowly opened their eyes, seeing that the surroundings had returned to the calmness of blue skies and white clouds. Each of them sighed in relief. When they looked at Zhong Shan again, they couldn''t help but feel a lingering fear.


    At the same time, they all mentallybeled Zhong Shan as a dangerous individual.


    Zhong Shan hadn''t expected to cause such amotion, butpared to the benefits he had gained, even if he had to go through it again, he would undoubtedly continue absorbing the ominous energy without hesitation.


    He slowly sat down, and the ministers behind him once again showed deep respect.


    "Zhong Shan, you were amazing just now!" Hao Meili whispered, praising him.


    Zhong Shan smiled slightly, indifferent to thepliment.


    The scene returned to how it was before, but now, the people''s moods hadpletely changed.


    At this moment, it wasn''t just the citizens and guests of the Holy Capital of Xianyang who were astounded. Outside Xianyang, in a certain valley, there was also a group of people in white robes.


    These white-robed individuals were equally astonished, for some among them had already discerned the profoundness of what had just urred.


    The leader of the group, if Zhong Shan were here, he would undoubtedly recognize at a nce��this was none other than Zilu, the Ancestral Immortal of the Confucian School, whom he had fought against in the Netherworld several months ago.


    Zilu was dressed in white, and the arm that Zhong Shan had severed had remarkably grown back.


    Beside him stood Sekong, with a face full of reluctance.


    Zilu looked up at the sky, watching the cmity clouds slowly dissipate. His heart was also in turmoil.


    "What was that?" Zilu''s eyelids twitched.


    "Great-Uncle Master, what just happened?" Sekong asked.


    "The Punishment of Heaven... Who could havemitted such a grievous act that it nearly triggered the Punishment of Heaven! Thest time the Punishment of Heaven appeared was when the Seven Saints fell. What on earth is happening in Xianyang this time?" Zilu''s voice was filled with curiosity.


    "Great-Uncle Master, in that case, maybe we should retreat!" Sekong suggested, slowly backing away.


    Sekong''s heightened sensitivity had once again made him acutely aware of the overwhelming danger.


    "Retreat? Retreat where? Our Confucian Sect has practically mobilized our entire force for this n. The Four-Sided Formation is nearly set up, and you want to retreat now? Are you out of your mind? Besides, ording to reports, Zhong Shan has also arrived in Xianyang. Don''t you want revenge?" Zilu said in a deep voice.


    "What? Zhong Shan is here again?" Sekong''s face turned pale.


    "What''s the matter?" Zilu''s tone was filled with disdain, but it was evident that he harbored deep resentment toward Zhong Shan as well.


    Sekong nced at Zilu and then said, "Great-Uncle Master, this is the second time. Haven''t you realized it yet?"


    "Realized what?" Zilu asked, his tone darkening.


    "That Zhong Shan is a monster, the greatest fiend in the world! Anyone who dares to trouble him ends up facing their doom. Don''t you know? Back in the Small Thousand World, when Zhong Shan was only at the Nascent Soul Stage? Or maybe the Integration Stage? His cultivation was pitifully weak, yet he single-handedly brought down a Holy Land. The Elysium Pure Land had barely started opposing him, and they were destroyed. And you, Great-Uncle Master��both times you encountered Zhong Shan, did you fare well?" Sekong, in his eagerness to flee,id everything bare.


    "Rubbish! The Kong family, how did it produce such a coward like you? You hear Zhong Shan''s name and turn into a quivering mess? Do you n to give up cultivation altogether? How will you ovee your inner demons and grow if you don''t confront them? And what about avenging your father?" Zilu thundered.


    "I-I don''t want revenge anymore!" Sekong muttered, his voice barely audible.


    "...!" Zilu was on the verge of being driven mad by Sekong''s cowardice. He had never seen someone so utterly spineless.


    "Regardless, you''re not allowed to leave. You must understand the significance of this operation. Besides, Zhong Shan is destined to die, and the Great Qin will be annihted. The Confucian Sect, and your Kong family, have mustered an overwhelming force. Destroying Xianyang will be as easy as turning a hand!" Zilu snapped.


    "You thought it would be easy to kill Zhong Shan both times before, didn''t you?" Sekong muttered under his breath.


    Zilu was now filled with regret. How did his fellow disciples end up assigning this coward to his group?


    "This is the Master''s decision. If you think you can defy the Master''s orders, then go ahead and leave!" Zilu said coldly.


    Zilu''s master was none other than the Sage of Great Confucianism, Confucius.


    "What?" Sekong''s expression shifted slightly.


    "Oh, so it''s... I see now, I understand. I''m not leaving, Great-Uncle Master!" Sekong''s face rxed as he realized the situation.


    A grand conspiracy against Xianyang was unfolding.


    Not just here with Sekong, but Confucian disciples were slowly gathering around Xianyang from all directions. A confrontation between the Confucian Sect and the Great Qin was about to begin!


    Within the Holy Capital of Xianyang, inside the Chongtian Hall!


    The banquet continued, and the honored guests gradually refined their Thirteenth Grade White Lotuses. Even Hao Meili, though she hadn''tpletely refined hers, was able to preserve it. And so, the matter of the Thirteenth Grade White Lotuses was put to rest.


    Amidst the clinking of cups and lively chatter, the grand banquet continued, each participant harboring their own thoughts.


    As dusk approached, just as the celebration reached its peak and the four corners of the hall buzzed with excitement, a loud voice suddenly echoed through the gradually darkening sky!


    "Confucius said, ''When three people walk together, one of them is bound to be my teacher: I choose to follow the good and correct my own faults!''"


    The voice was loud and seemed to be amplified by magical power, resonating throughout the entire Holy Capital of Xianyang. In an instant, the noisy capital fell into a silence so deep that one could hear a pin drop.


    Everyone knew that the Great Qin and the Confucian Sect harbored deep animosity toward each other, and this was the sound of "Confucius said..."


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1024: This One Chickened Out Again

    <h4>Chapter 1024: This One Chickened Out Again</h4>


    "Confucius said, ''When three people walk together, one of them is bound to be my teacher: I choose to follow the good and correct my own faults!''"


    "Confucius said, ''In governing a country of a thousand chariots: Be respectful in handling affairs, trustworthy in speech, frugal in expenditure, and cherish the people, making sure to employ them at the proper time.''"


    "Confucius said, ''If a noble man is not serious, he will not be respected, and his learning will not be solid.''"


    "Confucius said, ''To govern by virtue is like the North Star, which stays in its ce while the other stars revolve around it.''"


    ...


    ...


    The sound of Confucian teachings echoed throughout the Holy Capital of Xianyang.


    Ever since the founding of the Great Qin, there had been a deep-seated enmity between Qin and the Confucian Sect. Every Confucian disciple who appeared in the Great Qin was ruthlessly hunted down, with no mercy shown. This was a well-known rift between Qin and the Confucians.


    In the past, every enemy dynasty of the Great Qin received the utmost support from the Confucian Sect. However, the Great Qin was too powerful, sweeping across the Eight Destions and Six Directions, with the god of war, Bai Qi, leading the armies to conquer all, never tasting defeat. The Confucian-backed dynasties were utterly crushed, their forces shattered.


    But today, on the day of the Great Qin''s Holy King Ying''s 90,000th birthday, the sound of Confucian teachings suddenly echoed throughout the Holy Capital of Xianyang. The voices were numerous and overwhelming. Each "Confucius said" resounded with the Confucian Sect''s fighting spirit. The Confucian Sect had chosen today tounch a massive counterattack.


    As the sound of Confucian teachings spread through Xianyang, the entire Holy Capital suddenly became dazzlingly bright, bathed in a pure white light.


    A vast amount of white light illuminated the entire city of Xianyang. Sekong, who was standing at the back, said nervously, "Maybe we should..."


    This time, Zilu didn''t object. He knew this coward would only embarrass the Confucian Sect if he were forced to stand at the front lines.


    "Alright!" Zilu nodded.


    Sekong immediately moved to the very back, taking out a scroll of the Spring and Autumn Annals, pretending to recite it alongside the other Confucian disciples.


    Zilu nced at him disdainfully before ignoring him altogether. Pathetic!


    Sekong sat at the back, muttering something under his breath, but his eyes were darting around. It was clear that if anything went wrong, he would be the first to turn and run!


    In the square of Chongtian Hall, Ying nced at the distant Confucian schrs, then turned to look at Tathagata, Bodhi, Lan, and Zhong Shan.


    "Everyone, this is a critical moment in the Qin-Confucian conflict. May I know your intentions?" Ying asked in a deep voice.


    "We''re already here, and we''ve received our rewards. Naturally, we''ll do our utmost to help you," Lan replied with a faint smile.


    "Indeed," Tathagata nodded.


    "Indeed," Bodhi echoed.


    "I''ll do my best," Zhong Shan nodded.


    Zhong Shan knew that his enmity with the Confucian Sect had long passed the point of no return. Pretending to be neutral now would only invite shame and make him an enemy to both the Great Qin and the Confucians. It was better to dere his stance openly.


    Ying nodded. He didn''t have any specific expectations for the other guests; the acknowledgment of these four was all he needed.


    "In this battle, I have other ns. Unless absolutely necessary, I won''t intervene directly. In the meantime, I''m counting on all of you to give your full support!" Ying said solemnly.


    Other ns? What could Ying be nning that was even more significant than the Qin-Confucian conflict?


    "Understood," Tathagata nodded.


    The others also nodded. None of them believed that Ying was afraid. If he said he had other ns, then those ns were undoubtedly of great importance.


    Above the white clouds, a gathering of righteous energy coalesced. A figure stepped forward, clearly representing the esteemed Confucian schrs, and was the first to speak.


    "This is Zai Yu, also known by his courtesy name Zai Wo, a disciple of Confucius," whispered the Western Poison Emperor to Zhong Shan, providing a brief introduction.


    "Zai Wo?" Zhong Shan''s expression turned slightly odd.


    "What a ridiculous name! It''s just asking for a beating!" Hao Meili chimed in with a mischievous grin.


    "Hahaha, indeed, it''s begging for trouble!" Lan, standing nearby, couldn''t help butugh at Hao Meili''sment.


    Lan''sughter instantly lightened the tense atmosphere in the square.


    Zai Wo? People nced at the figure who had stepped forward and couldn''t help but smile at the absurdity of it.


    In the distance, at the center of the righteous energy, Zai Wo''s face remained solemn as he gazed disdainfully at Xianyang.


    Looking towards the distant Chongtian Hall, Zai Wo began to speak, "People of Xianyang!"


    At his words, the Confucian teachings abruptly ceased.


    ncing around, Zai Wo cast a slightly provocative look towards the entrance of Chongtian Hall.


    "The enmity between the Confucian Sect and the Great Qin runs deep and cannot be left unresolved. Today is the day we settle this! Those deeply allied with the Great Qin are enemies of the Confucian Sect. Now, I offer you a chance to reconsider. Anyone who leaves Xianyang now will have their past enmity with the Confucian Sect forgiven and will be considered a friend. But those who remain in Xianyang will be our enemies," Zai Wo dered solemnly.


    His voice was powerful, echoing throughout all of Xianyang.


    For a moment, the city was in an uproar, with noisy discussions breaking out everywhere.


    Was the Confucian Sect about to engage in a life-or-death battle with the Great Qin?


    The Great Qin was led by the unmatched Holy King Ying, whose power was unrivaled under heaven. But the Confucian Sect had Confucius himself, one of the nine strongest individuals in the world, a true sage.


    Should they continue supporting the Great Qin, or switch allegiance to the Confucian Sect?


    In an instant, a life-or-death decision was ced before everyone.


    "This Zai Wo!" Tathagata said gravely.


    Zai Wo was clearly trying to undermine the morale of Xianyang''s military, civilians, and guests!


    "Ying, surely you wouldn''t deny your people the chance to make their own choice, would you?" Zai Wo called out again from a distance.


    Anyone withmon sense could see that Zai Wo was attempting to sow discord between Ying and his people.


    Ying looked at Zai Wo in the distance and responded with a faint smile, "A petty clown putting on such a spirited performance��is this your way of celebrating my birthday?"


    "Hahahaha...!" The guests loyal to the Great Qin in Chongtian Hall immediately burst intoughter.


    Within Xianyang, the citizens, too, felt their anxiety lift. The guests who had been wavering and worried also began to feel reassured. Only a few, unwilling to take this gamble, quietly left Xianyang.


    Zai Wo''s face reddened slightly at Ying''s mocking remark, but only for a moment. He quickly regained hisposure and sharply replied, "Those who remain in Xianyang will face the disaster of the Qin-Confucian conflict. The Confucian Sect will show no mercy to the people of Xianyang!"


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1025: Battle Begins

    <h4>Chapter 1025: Battle Begins</h4>


    "Those who remain in Xianyang will only face the disaster of the Qin-Confucian conflict. The Confucian Sect will show no mercy to the people of Xianyang!" Zai Wo coldly dered once more. This was his final ultimatum to the people of Xianyang: stay, and you will die with them. To defy the Confucian Sect was to seek death!


    Zai Wo''s words struck at the hearts of themon people. After all, their power was far too weak. In the midst of a battle, even the shockwaves alone could wipe many of them out. The Confucian Sect''s willingness to disregard the lives of their enemies only deepened the people''s hesitation.


    Should they stay? If the battle began, it would undoubtedly bring heaven-shattering destruction, and they wouldn''t be able to withstand it.


    The people fell into silence, and almost everyone looked toward the Chongtian Hall.


    <i>p, p, p!</i> Ying pped his hands.


    "Well done! A fine performance," Ying said with a smile, as if Zai Wo had trulye to celebrate his birthday.


    "Ying, do you think we''re bluffing?" Zai Wo retorted coldly.


    "Threatening me with the lives of my people? You''re not qualified!" Ying replied calmly.


    Zai Wo''s expression changed slightly.


    "Get out!" Suddenly, a series of loud shouts echoed throughout Xianyang.


    One by one, Confucian-robed figures were forcibly expelled from various halls by Qin soldiers. These Confucian schrs, their hair disheveled, were bound and dragged to the major squares, where they were forced to kneel. In all directions, nearly 400,000 Confucian schrs were brought out, distributed across the city''s central squares, and forced to kneel. Each Qin soldier held arge de to their throats, ready to strike at a moment''s notice.


    On the clouds of righteous energy, Zai Wo''s face turned pale.


    "Confucian schrs chanting your scriptures in the clouds, take a look and see if any of your family or friends are among them!" Ying said with a faint smile.


    As soon as Ying finished speaking, amotion broke out among the Confucian schrs behind Zai Wo.


    "Father, that''s my father!"


    "Brother, how did you get captured?"


    "My son, didn''t I tell you not to leave the house?"


    Family and friends? When did Ying capture their loved ones?


    "Ying, how despicable! Is this the act of a true Holy King?" Zai Wo shouted in anger.


    "You''ve got it wrong. You should be asking Confucius this question. Do sages see themon people as mere ants? Do the people of my Great Qin deserve to die? Do my guests deserve to die? If you came to me openly and honestly, I would have respected you. But to threaten the Great Qin with the lives of my people? How dare you!" Ying roared.


    At first, some of the Xianyang citizens felt a pang of guilt seeing the Confucian schrs brought to the execution ground. But after hearing Ying''s words, all hesitation vanished. If not for Ying''s foresight, it would be them on the chopping block right now, treated as insignificant ants ready to be ughtered.


    In an instant, the people of the Great Qin were united in anger, ring at the Confucian schrs in the sky.


    A spirit of unity and determination surged among the people of the Great Qin, creating an invisible force that seemed to push back the surrounding righteous energy.


    Seeing the panic among the Confucian disciples behind him, Zai Wo''s eyes shed with a dark glint. He exchanged a look with his fellow disciples, who nodded in agreement, signaling him to continue.


    Turning back to Ying, Zai Wo said, "Ying, our conflict need not involve these weaklings. Today you threaten the Confucian Sect with schrs��don''t you fear bing aughingstock tomorrow?"


    "Hah, hahaha...!" Ying burst into heartyughter.


    And the people of Xianyang looked at Zai Wo with disdain. How could someone be so shameless?


    Ying finishedughing and fixed his gaze on Zai Wo, his expression full of disdain. "Is this what the Confucian Sect has be?"


    Zai Wo''s face twisted in anger, silently cursing the informant who had exposed their ns. If not for that leak, today''s events might have turned out differently.


    "You wouldn''t dare kill Confucian schrs! If you do, not a single citizen of Xianyang will survive!" Zai Wo snarled, his face darkening.


    "Kill them!" Yingmanded with a calm voice.


    "Kill!"


    A thunderous roar echoed through Xianyang as the Qin soldiers raised their des and brought them down in unison.


    Thud, thud, thud!


    The heads of 400,000 Confucian schrs fell to the ground.


    "You!" Zai Wo screamed in fury. Ying had just humiliated him in the most direct way possible.


    The citizens of Xianyang were equally stunned, unable toprehend why Ying had done this. Weren''t these Confucian schrs supposed to be used as leverage? Why kill them?


    Up in the clouds, nearly ten thousand Confucian schrs erupted in rage, their eyes bloodshot. They had just watched their family and friends be executed before their very eyes. Among the leading sages, some even let out long sighs of relief, revealing how conflicted they were.


    Ying nced coldly at the schrs in the sky and said, "Those whoe to my Great Qin must be prepared for the consequences."


    "Your kin have been in by the Great Qin! This enmity is irreconcble��show no mercy, begin the attack!" Zai Wo ordered the schrs behind him.


    "Yes!" The nearly ten thousand Confucian schrs roared in anger.


    Seated at the very back, Sekong remained silent, his eyes darting around as he desperately searched for a way to escape. The ominous feeling in his gut was growing stronger by the minute.


    "Confucius said, ''Clever words and an ingratiating appearance are seldom associated with true virtue!''"


    Suddenly, the group of Confucian schrs behind the sages began chanting again, their voices booming like thunder. An immense gathering of righteous energy converged, forming a colossal pir that seemed to connect heaven and earth.


    The pir was pure white, inscribed with countless Confucian maxims and passages from the Analects and the Spring and Autumn Annals, embodying the very essence of the Confucian Way.


    "The Great Confucian Way, the path of Confucius? Manifested through the devout faith of Confucian schrs, this Great Confucian Way shows that the Confucian Sect is truly willing to risk everything!" Tathagata remarked calmly.


    "But some of its power has already been undermined by Ying. The ughter of 400,000 Confucian schrs has shaken the resolve of those forming this path, creating a w in the Great Confucian Way," Lan said solemnly.


    "These were the most devout disciples of the Confucian Sect. What a pity," Bodhi sighed and shook his head.


    The Great Confucian Way rose, towering into the sky, but as it approached within a hundred zhang of the ground, it suddenly halted, unable to prate further.


    It was as if a massive formation was protecting Xianyang, shielding it from the righteous energy. The massive formation encased the city, preventing even the slightest infiltration by the righteous energy.


    But how could any formation block the way of the Heavenly Dao? The Dao is omnipresent, unyielding to any obstacle.


    "A temporal treasure, Ying, you certainly have no shortage of powerful artifacts!" Lan''s eyes sparkled with a glint of admiration.


    A temporal treasure? Zhong Shan recalled that when Ying had left the Small Thousand World, it had indeed been with the help of a temporal treasure.


    "Today, I will merely observe. The battle with the Confucian Sect is yours to fight," Ying dered.


    "Understood," the others nodded in agreement.


    Meanwhile, the citizens of Xianyang finally understood why Ying had executed the 400,000 Confucian schrs. Their Holy King had no need for such base tactics as threats. He had already prepared everything for their protection, filling the people with a deep sense of pride.


    In the distance, at the center of the gathering righteous energy, Zai Wo''s face flushed red with rage. Ying was right��he had indeed been acting like a petty clown just moments ago.


    "Righteous Energy!" Zai Wo shouted in shame and anger from the distance.


    With a thunderous hum, a colossal sword, a million li in height, suddenly emerged from the Great Confucian Way. This massive sword was forged entirely from righteous energy��a Sword of Righteousness.


    Zai Wo''s gaze turned icy as the Sword of Righteousness descended from the heavens, aiming directly at the Chongtian Hall.


    This was a test from the Confucian sages. Their goal was to force Ying''s hand, topel him to summon the Golden Dragon of Fate.


    But Ying, instead of reacting, simply sat down, showing no further concern.


    "Hum!"


    Tathagata took a step forward, and with a deep, resonant "Hum" mantra, a gigantic golden "Hum" character emerged from his mouth, shooting upward. The golden character expanded rapidly, growing to a size of a thousand li in an instant, forming a shield in front of the Chongtian Hall.


    "Boom!"


    The mantra from Tathagata collided with the Sword of Righteousness, causing the sky to tremble violently. The golden "Hum" character shattered, and the Sword of Righteousness dispersed into nothingness.


    "Tathagata, do you intend to oppose the Confucian Sect as well?" Zai Wo shouted in fury.


    "Confucius said, ''The gentleman does not discuss strange urrences, forces, disorder, and spirits.'' Buddhism and Confucianism are inherently opposed��where is the opposition in that?" Tathagata responded calmly. As he spoke, his body radiated a blinding golden light, growing tenfold in size, revealing his true form. What had previously appeared as an ordinary human stature was now revealed to be a mere illusion, reduced by magic.


    Tathagata''s golden light shone brilliantly, his immense Buddha aura rising to the heavens. Though he had yet to fully reveal his mastery of the Heavenly Dao, the sheer divine power emanating from him was already awe-inspiring.


    "Righteous Energy!"


    A voice shouted from afar once more.


    Around the Great Confucian Way, another series of Righteous Energy Swords began to manifest. This time, not just one, but eighty-eight of them appeared. It seemed as though, as long as they were near the Great Confucian Way, an endless number of Righteous Energy Swords could be summoned.


    Eighty-eight swords��such a magnificent sight.


    Among the leading sages, ny-nine figures stood tall; of these, eleven stood with their arms folded, while the others raised the Righteous Energy Swords.


    These Righteous Energy Swords were immensely powerful, seemingly drawing upon the force of the Heavenly Dao itself, channeling the power of the Great Confucian Way behind them. Each sword carried the strength of a newly ascended Ancestral Immortal.


    Though each sword was only as powerful as a single strike from an Ancestral Immortal, there were eighty-eight of them��equivalent to the power of eighty-eight Ancestral Immortals.


    Their might was overwhelming. As the Righteous Energy Swords descended, the space around them trembled violently, like the roaring waves of a stormy sea. The massive tremors spread in all directions, and if not for Ying''s temporal treasure protecting the area, the ground below would have been reduced to dust.


    Ying still did not intervene, and the faces of the ordinary guests had turned pale. As for the Qin soldiers, they remained cold andposed. As long as the Holy King stood, they feared nothing��not even the greatest of natural disasters.


    "Om Mani Padme Hum!"


    Tathagata chanted another mantra, this time reciting all six sacred sybles in one breath. Instantly, the area around the Chongtian Hall was enveloped in boundless golden light, forming a massive golden pir that stretched from the heavens to the earth.


    Tathagata''s Heavenly Dao emerged!


    With the manifestation of the Heavenly Dao, the Chongtian Hall was fully protected. The powerful sound of Buddhist chants filled the air, and the vast golden light illuminated the heavens and the earth.


    The eighty-eight Righteous Energy Swords crashed against Tathagata''s Heavenly Dao barrier.


    "Boom!"


    The intense light from the collision was so bright that it blinded everyone momentarily, forcing them to shut their eyes against the overwhelming radiance.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1026: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Scheme

    <h4>Chapter 1026: Zhong Shan''s Scheme</h4>


    The eighty-eight Righteous Energy Swords sliced through the air with such intensity that they caused powerful tremors in the void as they hurtled towards Tathagata''s Heavenly Dao barrier.


    With a deafening crash, the golden light and white light shed, blinding everyone momentarily. It seemed as if Tathagata''s Heavenly Dao had been shattered by the overwhelming force of the impact. The void itself quivered, a testament to the ferocity of the collision.


    However, Tathagata''s abilities were far from exhausted. Zhong Shan even suspected that Tathagata was deliberately holding back, concealing the true extent of his power.


    Suddenly, a chanting of the <i>Diamond Sutra</i> filled the air, reverberating from all directions. It was as if countless monks were reciting in unison.


    Tathagata''s golden aura red brilliantly, one hand pointing to the sky, the other to the earth, proiming, "In the heavens above and the earth below, I alone am honored!"


    Golden clouds spread in all directions, and within these clouds, countless golden Arhats and Bodhisattvas appeared, seated in meditation. These were not real entities but rather Dharma manifestations created by Tathagata. The powerful Buddhist chants cleansed the hearts of those present, and the manifestation of Tathagata''s domain seemed to form a Buddhist presence that stood in equal opposition to the Great Confucian Way.


    To the south, an infinite expanse of Righteous Energy; to the north, a boundless sea of Buddhist Dharma manifestations!


    Tathagata alone managed to hold back the onught of Righteous Energy.


    Tathagata, now towering ten times his normal height, gleaming with golden light, looked into the distance and said, "Everyone, let''s strike together!"


    "Alright," Lan nodded.


    Zhong Shan also nodded.


    With a wave of his hand, Luo Xingchen stepped forward to stand beside Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan retrieved a blood-red long arrow and handed it to Luo Xingchen.


    Luo Xingchen understood and nodded in return. He nocked the blood-red arrow onto his Xuanyuan Bow, pulling the string taut.


    The first arrow��this marked the beginning of their collective assault.


    As the blood-red arrow shot forth, it streaked towards one of the great Confucian sages in the distance.


    The sage''s eyes widened in shock as the Righteous Energy Sword reappeared, but Luo Xingchen''s arrow, imbued with time maniption, was no ordinary arrow.


    It was too fast��so fast that the Confucian sage barely had time to react. He managed to lift his sword, but it was toote to block the arrow. Had he known of Luo Xingchen''s time-based abilities, he might have had a chance, but in that moment, he was helpless.


    The arrow was so swift that even an Ancestral Immortal might struggle to keep pace. The arrow''s path left a streaking afterimage from Chongtian Hall all the way to the Great Confucian Way.


    It was a stunning shot. Even Ying couldn''t help but show a trace of admiration in his eyes.


    "Perhaps only the legendary Hou Yi, at his level, could have shot such an arrow," came a voice of appreciation from beside Ying.


    Unnoticed by most, the ck-robed Guiguzi had reappeared at Ying''s side.


    Luo Xingchen''s incredible arrow was so fast that it seemed destined to pierce the Confucian sage''s throat. Everyone believed the sage was as good as dead.


    But in that critical moment��


    <i>Bang!</i>


    The blood-red arrow suddenly stopped, the tail trembling violently. A pale hand had caught the arrow, stopping it just a hair''s breadth from the sage''s throat.


    It was an incredibly close call. The Confucian sage could still feel the chilling cold at his throat.


    The arrow was halted, and the Confucian sage swallowed hard, his Adam''s apple bobbing nervously. Even after the hand holding the blood-red arrow was withdrawn, the sage remained in a daze, stunned by his brush with death.


    Life and death had been separated by a mere thread.


    The guests at Chongtian Hall sighed in disappointment, but Zhong Shan was smiling in satisfaction.


    It was none other than Zilu, the Ancestral Immortal, who had caught the arrow!


    Zhong Shan''s schemes never missed their mark. He had already informed Luo Xingchen of the intended target and handed him a specially prepared arrow infused with the Red Luan Mist��a potent substance with a unique effect. This arrow, blood-red in color, concealed the pink hue of the Red Luan Mist, making it almost impossible to detect.


    Few knew of Luo Xingchen''s time-manipting abilities, and even fewer realized the extraordinary nature of this particr arrow. However, Zilu, who had experienced Luo Xingchen''s terrifying power firsthand, recognized the danger. More importantly, the Confucian sage who had been targeted stood right beside Zilu.


    Who else could save him if not Zilu?


    But the true purpose of this arrow was not to kill the Confucian sage but to reintroduce the Red Luan Mist into Zilu''s body. Only a blood-red arrow could mask the mist''s true color.


    And with that single shot, Zhong Shan seeded. While others might have felt disappointment, Zhong Shan was secretly thrilled. The Red Luan Mist, once purified, was undeniably the world''s most potent aphrodisiac, as demonstrated in the previous battle against Zilu in the Netherworld.


    The Confucian sage, who had just narrowly escaped death, finally came to his senses, trembling with rage. The fear of being so close to death was something only those who had experienced it could understand.


    Furious, the Confucian sage roared, "Righteous Energy Sword!" A massive Righteous Energy Sword, a million li in height, materialized and shed down toward Zhong Shan with overwhelming force.


    The sword''s momentum was terrifying, but Tathagata did not intervene, for everyone believed Zhong Shan could handle it.


    The white Righteous Energy Sword tore through the void, apanied by an endless river of sword energy, all converging toward Zhong Shan.


    Bodhi, Ying, and Guiguzi all turned their attention to Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan raised his head slightly, and a vast surge of purple sword energy erupted around him, shooting into the sky.


    With a sh of purple light, a long purple sword soared toward the Righteous Energy Sword.


    The purple sword carried an overwhelming sword intent, and as it sliced through the void, the very space around it quivered.


    "Boom!"


    The two swords collided, producing a blinding sh of light. The void trembled as the Righteous Energy Sword shattered into pieces��a sword even stronger than the Righteous Energy Sword?


    A sword? Zhong Shan used a sword? What kind of sword was that? The guests at Chongtian Hall were filled with curiosity.


    "Zhuxian Sword?" Lan''s pupils contracted slightly.


    Zhuxian Sword? The guests at Chongtian Hall were astonished. Could it be true? Was it just a replica?


    However, the high-ranking individuals present no longer believed it to be a mere imitation. If Lan had spoken, then Zhong Shan had indeed wielded the true Zhuxian Sword!


    But wasn''t the Zhuxian Sword supposed to be destroyed?


    As people looked at Zhong Shan, they noticed a small pet flying in front of him. The sword that had just been swung was actually one of its purple tails��a tail shaped like a fox''s. Could that really be the Zhuxian Sword?


    Unbelievable!


    "Zhuxian, ying Immortals, Trapping Immortals, and Extinguishing Immortals... Zhong Shan, you never cease to amaze me!" Lan eximed.


    Lan was certain now��Zhong Shan indeed possessed the Zhuxian Sword, along with the ying Immortals Sword, Trapping Immortals Sword, and Extinguishing Immortals Sword. The Zhong Shan that Ying had endorsed was truly mysterious beyond measure.


    "Attack!" Lanmanded two of his subordinates.


    The two nodded, and as they stepped forward, a red and a brown Heavenly Dao enveloped them entirely, indicating that they were about to join the battle alongside Tathagata.


    In the distance, the Confucian sage who had just unleashed the Righteous Energy Sword was momentarily stunned. He hadn''t recognized the Zhuxian Sword, but he could clearly sense its overwhelming sword intent. How could it be so powerful?


    Zilu''s eyes widened in rage, and just as he was about to let out a furious roar, a voice suddenly rang out beside him.


    "Zhong Shan, you��you''re a despicable scoundrel!" Zilu bellowed, his eyes bloodshot with fury.


    Zilu''s outburst left many people baffled.


    The citizens of Xianyang looked at Zilu in confusion, as did the guests in Chongtian Hall. If anyone should be shouting, it should have been the Confucian sage who had just been saved by Zilu. After all, Zilu had intercepted Zhong Shan''s subordinate''s arrow, so why was he acting so aggrieved?


    Even the Confucian sage Zilu had saved was left in a daze, staring at Zilu in bewilderment. <i>Why are you shouting? I haven''t even reacted yet!</i>


    Zilu''s anger was palpable as he red at Zhong Shan. He could scarcely believe that Zhong Shan had plotted against him so insidiously. The level of cunning disyed by Zhong Shan was beyond anything Zilu could have anticipated.


    "Brothers, I''ve been poisoned with the aphrodisiac again! Help me dispel it!" Zilu quickly exined to the other Confucian sages.


    The Confucian sages exchanged nces, finally understanding the situation.


    In the back, where Sekong had been pretending to chant scriptures, a cold smirk appeared on his lips. He thought to himself, <i>Is this what you called an effortless victory over Zhong Shan? Zhong Shan hasn''t even made a direct move, and you''ve already fallen into his trap. I told you Zhong Shan was a monster, but you wouldn''t listen. You brought this on yourself!</i>


    Sekong felt a wave of relief wash over him.


    Meanwhile, on the other side of the battlefield, Zhong Shan handed a new bundle of blood-red arrows to Luo Xingchen.


    "Keep shooting! Don''t let Zilu seed in purging the poison!" Zhong Shan ordered in a stern voice.


    "Yes!" Luo Xingchen epted the bundle of arrows, all infused with the Red Luan Mist, and resumed his relentless barrage.


    "Kill!" Yingmanded calmly.


    "Yes!" Bai Qi, Wang Jian, and Meng Tian responded in unison.


    The renowned generals drew their weapons and charged into the fray, taking to the skies.


    The battle was on the brink of erupting in full force.


    Once again, numerous Righteous Energy Swords materialized, and the ferocious battle resumed. The sky trembled as countless shes ensued, highlighting the epic scale of the Qin-Confucian conflict.


    "Zhong Shan, is that man Zilu?" Hao Meili''s expression turned icy as she asked.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan confirmed with a nod.


    "I''ll curse him for you!" Hao Meili dered.


    With that, Hao Meili extended her arms and began drawing circles in the air with her index fingers, as if casting some kind of curse.


    "Uh, okay," Zhong Shan replied, a bit puzzled.


    The other guests also looked at Hao Meili with bewilderment. Was she sick or something? Drawing circles in the air to curse Zilu? And she was actually doing it without any visible sign of magical power.


    However, Ying, Bodhi, Guiguzi, and Lan all became noticeably more serious. They understood the terrifying nature of Hao Meili''s curse, even if it seemed like child''s y to others.


    Zhong Shan''s subordinates were indeed an extraordinary bunch!


    In the distance, Zilu was seeking help from his fellow sages to purge the poison, but before they could even begin, a barrage of blood-red arrows filled with Red Luan Mist rained down upon them once again, thanks to Luo Xingchen.


    As the arrows approached, they exploded in a shower of pink energy. Zilu, who was already wary of the mist, recoiled in fear. The other sages, aware of Zilu''s vulnerability to the poison, quickly waved their hands to deflect the arrows.


    Among the ny-nine Confucian sages, Zhong Shan noticed that four of them remained utterly unaffected by the battle. These four had vertical lines of seven-colored light on their foreheads, and their expressions were emotionless, as if indifferent to the entire conflict between the Qin and Confucian factions.


    At Zhong Shan''s signal, Luo Xingchen aimed one of his arrows at one of these four individuals.


    The arrow shot out at incredible speed, reaching its target in the blink of an eye.


    But just as the arrow was about to strike, it abruptly halted, suspended in mid-air. The man''s eyes shed with a brilliant light, and the arrow rebounded at twice the speed it had been fired.


    "Boom!"


    The Zhuxian Sword intercepted the arrow just in time, slicing it in half.


    Luo Xingchen broke into a cold sweat. The speed of the rebound had been twice as fast as the original shot. <i>Who are these four with the colorful lines on their foreheads? Are they truly members of the Confucian Sect? They''re terrifyingly powerful.</i>


    <i>To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8 </i>

 Chapter 1027: The End of Zilu

    <h4>Chapter 1027: The End of Zilu</h4>


    The four figures with vertical lines of color on their foreheads briefly nced in Zhong Shan''s direction, their eyes filled with indifference. However, they did not retaliate. It was as if they werepletely detached from the ongoing Qin-Confucian war. They neither interfered nor defended, as long as no one bothered them, they would not engage.


    The other powerful figures on the battlefield seemed to recognize this peculiarity and carefully avoided those four.


    Bodhi stood beside Ying, unmoving. Zhong Shan also remained still.


    But Tathagata had already made his move.


    Lan stepped forward as well, apanied by his two subordinates.


    In the heart of the battlefield, the Ancestral Immortals shed, their Heavenly Daos intertwined.


    When Lan unleashed his Heavenly Dao, the entire area seemed to transform into a world of blue, with vast water vapor surging toward the Great Confucian Way.


    With Lan, his two subordinates, and Tathagata, there were now four Heavenly Daos on one side.


    On the opposing side, the Confucian sages, led by their Ancestral Immortals, had no choice but to respond. Six Ancestral Immortals stepped forward. In an instant, the skies above the Holy Capital of Xianyang were filled with the collision of ten Heavenly Daos. The sheer intensity of the battle made the world itself seem unreal, with countless ck holes appearing where the forces shed. The power of the Ancestral Immortals was unmatched.


    Thanks to the protection of Ying''s temporal treasure, the citizens of Xianyang were able to witness this monumental battle.


    Tathagata and Lan each faced off against two Ancestral Immortals. Despite the odds, both seemed to have the upper hand.


    The Righteous Energy Swords, wielded by the Confucian sages, met the onught of the Qin generals. Though the Confucian sages drew power from the Great Confucian Way, Bai Qi and the others were no ordinary foes. Their overwhelming killing intent, honed through countless battles, manifested as phantoms of vast armies. Bai Qi alone charged forward like a stampede of a thousand horses.


    Of the eleven Ancestral Immortals on the Confucian side, excluding the four with colored lines on their foreheads, only seven were left to fight. Six of them were already engaged with Lan, Tathagata, and their allies, leaving only Zilu.


    Zhong Shan had been watching Zilu from the start. Out of the thousands of Confucian schrs, Zhong Shan only had to kill one��Zilu��due to the life-and-death contract on the Book of Life and Death. To Zhong Shan, Zilu''s death was inevitable.


    People also noticed that the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail, which usually apanied Zhong Shan, had disappeared. No one could find it, no matter how hard they searched. However, this was a minor detail, and most did not pay much attention, as they were focused on the battle raging ahead.


    The battle of Ancestral Immortals was a rare sight, and a battle involving so many was something seen perhaps once in a millennium. Everyone kept their eyes wide open, not daring to blink.


    At the site of the Great Confucian Way, massive Righteous Energy Swords continued to rain down, turning the area into yet another focal point of the battlefield.


    "Ah!"


    With a powerful sh, Bai Qi cut down one of the Confucian sages wielding a Righteous Energy Sword, killing him instantly. The sudden death of one of their own caused the remaining Confucian sages to hesitate for a brief moment.


    The first casualty had fallen! The brutality of the battle was beginning to show. The Confucian sages, who had once been as close as brothers, were now driven to madness by the loss of one of their own. The ughter continued, more ferocious than ever.


    "sh!"


    Bai Qi''s de swept through the air again, cutting another Confucian sage in half at the waist.


    The Confucian sages were enraged. Their previousposure was gone, reced by bloodshot eyes filled with fury.


    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"


    Zilu, standing at the rear, had not moved. As soon as the battle had begun, there was no one left to help him purge the poison. Although he was an Ancestral Immortal, the poison Zhong Shan had inflicted upon him made it impossible for him to merge with his Heavenly Dao.


    Zilu finally understood what Sekong had meant��Zhong Shan was indeed a monster. Zhong Shan had been watching him this whole time, like a venomous snake ready to strike, making him too scared to act recklessly.


    If he could merge with his Heavenly Dao, ten Zhong Shans wouldn''t be a threat. But without that, Zilu was only slightly stronger than an Ancient Immortal, powerful but without the security of his full potential.


    And Zhong Shan, with his endless schemes, knew this perfectly well. Zilu''s death was a matter of time.


    Zilu had been holding back, remaining vignt and cautious, his nerves on edge.


    But when Bai Qi struck down the eighth Confucian sage, Zilu could no longer contain himself.


    "Zhong Shan is still far away. He can''t possibly scheme against me from this distance, and that subordinate of his��there''s no way his arrows could be faster than my divine sense!" Zilu reassured himself silently.


    "Kill!" Bai Qi roared as his de descended upon the ninth Confucian sage.


    "Boom!"


    The Righteous Energy Sword of the Confucian sage shattered under Bai Qi''s powerful strike. The de, carrying the momentum of a thousand armies, cleaved toward the Confucian sage.


    "Damned bastard!"


    With a furious shout, Zilu finally made his move. A golden brush materialized in his hand, radiating blinding light. The brush moved with swift precision, aiming directly at Bai Qi''s side.


    "Boom!"


    Bai Qi was forced to abandon his assault and turned to block the strike with his de. The collision resulted in a massive explosion, and Zilu''s overwhelming power was immediately apparent, forcing Bai Qi onto the defensive.


    Though Bai Qi was an Ancient Immortal, Zilu was still an Ancestral Immortal. Even without merging with his Heavenly Dao, Zilu''s strength far surpassed that of an Ancient Immortal. The golden brush in his hand drew upon the power of the surrounding Heavenly Dao, pressing down on Bai Qi.


    Bai Qi was being suppressed!


    Seeing this, seven or eight Confucian sages seized the opportunity, raising their Righteous Energy Swords to strike down Bai Qi.


    While suppressing Bai Qi, Zilu kept a wary eye on Zhong Shan''s direction.


    But then, Zhong Shan suddenly smiled.


    Seeing that smile, Zilu instinctively felt a surge of dread. But where was the dangering from? The archer wielding the Xuanyuan Bow? He had just nocked an arrow��there was no way he could pose a threat to Zilu now.


    Where? Where was iting from?


    Zilu felt a cold sweat break out across his back as a deep sense of mortal danger washed over him.


    His first instinct was to flee.


    But it was toote. A massive maw appeared behind Zilu, engulfing both him and his golden brush in an instant.


    "Chomp!"


    With a muffled sound, Zilu was swallowed whole. Even in his final moments, Zilu couldn''t understand how this fearsome beast had appeared behind him.


    Impossible! How could it be here?


    It wasn''t just Zilu��no one else couldprehend how the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail had managed to get behind him. That area had been covered by the divine senses of Ancestral Immortals. Unless it was a sage��no, even a sage couldn''t have moved in such a way without detection. It was absolutely impossible.


    Yet the reality was undeniable: the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail had somehow made it there.


    How did the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail manage this? Because it wasn''t just an ordinary beast. It was an extension of Zhong Shan''s root consciousness. Unlike typical beasts or treasures, a root consciousness could move through the owner''s divine sense instantly to any location within its reach.


    Of course, after this initial manifestation, it would lose the ability to teleport like this. But for the first appearance, it was as simple as that.


    With one bite, the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail devoured Zilu, allowing Zhong Shan to fulfill his long-held objective.


    "Bastard! Bastard!"


    The deaths of the other Confucian sages had been bearable, but Zilu''s death sent waves of fury through the remaining Confucian sages. Their angry voices echoed across the battlefield.


    Righteous Energy Swords rained down in anger, and even one of the figures with the colorful line on his forehead cast a furious nce at the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail, flipping his hand to unleash a powerful strike against it.


    In that brief moment after swallowing Zilu, the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail felt the surrounding space solidify as if trapping it in ce. If it had been an ordinary entity, escape would have been impossible. But as a root consciousness, it could vanish from its current location and return to Zhong Shan''s Niwan Pce in an instant, evading any attempts to pin it down.


    The intense sh caused the space in that area to copse, but even so, the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail had vanished without a trace, leaving everyone stunned. All eyes turned back to Zhong Shan.


    At the rear of the Confucian ranks, Sekong trembled slightly.


    "Thank heavens I''m smart. Easy victory, they said... Zhong Shan hadn''t even made a direct move, and you got eaten by his pet. This ce is too dangerous to stay in!" Sekong''s eyes darted around, clearly nning his escape.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan had be the focal point of the Confucians'' hatred.


    "Four Elders, are you still not going to act at a time like this?" Zai Wo called out in desperation.


    "Boom!" In the distance, with Zilu''s death, the Confucian Ancestral Immortals were momentarily distracted, leading to one of them being seriously injured by Tathagata.


    The four men with colorful lines on their foreheads exchanged troubled looks. With Zilu dead, the confidence of the Confucian faction had plummeted, weakening the power of the Great Confucian Way. The Righteous Energy Swords wielded by the Confucian sages were bing increasingly feeble. The bnce was tipping, and the Confucians were on the verge of defeat.


    Would they act? The four elders seemed hesitant, unwilling to intervene.


    "Four Elders! This is the family patriarch''s scepter, entrusted to me by our master before we set out. Holding this scepter is the same as holding the authority of the patriarch. If you don''t act now to save Brother Zilu, then seize Zhong Shan��hemands that beast! Seize him, and you can avenge our brother. Hurry, hurry!" Zai Wo shouted, brandishing the scepter.


    The four elders exchanged another nce before one of them finally moved, his figure blurring as he sped towards Chongtian Hall.


    It seemed the Ancestral Immortals on the battlefield had been keeping an eye on this side. The moment the elder made his move, Tathagata also sprang into action.


    Tathagata abruptly abandoned his current opponents and rushed to intercept the elder.


    "Buddha''s Divine Palm!" Tathagata, fully merged with his Heavenly Dao, unleashed a massive handprint that bore down with the might of the Heavenly Dao.


    Meanwhile, Lan, who had been watching, immediately stepped forward to take on Tathagata''s former opponents.


    One against four, Lan alone faced four Ancestral Immortals!


    The elder, seemingly in a hurry, saw Tathagata''s attacking and, with a fierce glint in his eyes, flicked his sleeve.


    "Shhhh!" A sharp, piercing sound echoed through the heavens, so intense that those below the level of Celestial Immortals felt as if steel needles were stabbing their eardrums.


    But the sound was only a byproduct. A burst of seven-colored light shot out from the elder''s sleeve, spreading across the sky in an instant, dazzling all who saw it.


    The seven-colored divine light washed over Tathagata''s Divine Palm, wiping it out in a sh.


    The terrifying force of the impact sent Tathagata reeling back ten steps before he could regain his footing.


    Even Tathagata, the Buddha himself, had been forced back by the fearsome seven-colored divine light.


    One of the Four Elders had acted, and his power was astonishing. How terrifying would the other three be?


    Tathagata steadied himself and didn''t back down, stepping forward to confront the elder once more.


    "Step aside, Tathagata! If you don''t, the Kong family will ensure the destruction of your Great Thunderp Temple!" the elder threatened.


    Tathagata shook his head and replied, "Kong family''s Four Elders, this is not your fight."


    "And if we insist?" another elder''s cold voice rang out from behind.


    Initially, one elder would have sufficed, but Tathagata''s stubborn resistance forced another elder to speak up. As he did, the sky filled with a blinding seven-colored light, identical to the one that had just erased Tathagata''s Divine Palm��an awe-inspiring and soul-shaking disy.


    Just as the Kong family''s Four Elders unleashed their overwhelming aura, a voice echoed across the battlefield.


    "Is that so? Have you four old men forgotten the rules of the Kong family?" The voice reverberated, causing the faces of the Four Elders to change slightly.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan, standing in Chongtian Hall, grew serious. He recognized the voice��it was Kong Xuan.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1028: Kong Xuan vs. Confucius

    <h4>Chapter 1028: Kong Xuan vs. Confucius</h4>


    "Is that so? Have you four old men forgotten the rules of the Kong family?"


    At the sound of this voice, the expressions of the Four Elders shifted. The elder who had previously unleashed the seven-colored divine light against Tathagata suddenly halted his advance.


    The faces of the Four Elders flickered with disbelief, which quickly gave way to aplex mix of emotions.


    "Whoosh!" In the center of the battlefield, a man in a green robe appeared out of thin air.


    This man, radiating pride and fully recovered from his injuries, was none other than Kong Xuan. His sudden appearance caused the entire battlefield to freeze as if by some unspoken agreement. Whether they were Confucian sages, Qin generals, Lan, or the Ancestral Immortals, everyone paused their actions.


    For a moment, Kong Xuan became the focal point, drawing the gaze of nearly everyone present.


    A glint of light shed in Lan''s eyes as he smiled faintly and, with a wave of his sleeve, returned to the Chongtian Hall za with his two subordinates.


    Tathagata, seeing Kong Xuan, also nodded slightly and retreated.


    The Qin generals, observing this scene, seemed to act as if they had anticipated this, all returning to the Chongtian Hall za.


    The citizens of Xianyang erupted in excitement. Who was this man, who could bring a two-sided battle to a halt with just his presence?


    Many of the Confucian disciples frowned as they gazed at Kong Xuan.


    The Four Elders of the Kong family looked at Kong Xuan withplicated expressions, unsure of how to respond.


    Kong Xuan''s identity made him the center of attention at that moment. He ignored the Confucian sages and the Great Confucian Way, instead focusing on the Four Elders.


    "Four old men, are you the elders of the Kong family or the elders of the Confucian Sect?" Kong Xuan asked coldly.


    The Four Elders immediately showed a trace of shame, unable to find words under Kong Xuan''s fierce gaze.


    "Four Elders, the scepter represents the authority of the family head! Quickly save Brother Zilu! Didn''t you hear me? That Zhong Shan��his beast killed Brother Zilu! Capture Zhong Shan, and we can save him! Hurry!" Zai Wo shouted anxiously.


    Kong Xuan snapped his head around, ring at Zai Wo with a terrifyingly fierce gaze. The moment Zai Wo met Kong Xuan''s eyes, he felt as though he had been plunged into an icy abyss.


    "Family... Family Head!" the elder who had stepped forward earlier spoke with a conflicted expression.


    Family Head? Kong Xuan was the head of the Kong family? Then what was the scepter in Zai Wo''s hand?


    Everyone was stunned, looking at the elder in disbelief.


    "We thought you were dead!" the elder said, his face grim.


    "You thought I was dead, so you could give the family head''s scepter to just anyone?" Kong Xuan replied coldly.


    The four elders of the Kong family were clearly still hesitant. Although one of them had acknowledged Kong Xuan, the other three remained silent.


    "Have you forgotten the rules of the Kong family?" Kong Xuan pressed.


    Under Kong Xuan''s intense questioning, the Four Elders were momentarily at a loss for words.


    "I think it''s you who has forgotten the rules of the Kong family!"


    A sudden thunderous voice echoed through the void. The towering Great Confucian Way scattered instantly, and from the opposite direction, under an endless flood of white light, a man in Confucian robes appeared.


    The man''s face was obscured, but merely seeing him invoked a sense of overwhelming pressure that settled deep within the hearts of all who gazed upon him. The citizens of Xianyang instinctively bowed their heads, unable to look directly at him.


    Boundless Righteous Energy radiated from this man, spreading in all directions.


    "Greetings, Master!"


    "Greetings, Sage!"


    The Confucian schrs immediately bowed in reverence.


    In the distance, Zhong Shan, standing within Chongtian Hall, raised an eyebrow. <i>This man... is he Confucius? Did Kong Xuan actually force Confucius to reveal himself?</i>


    With a simple gesture, the scepter in Zai Wo''s hand flew into Confucius''s grasp. Confucius nced down at the protected Xianyang Holy Capital.


    "A temporal treasure to shield the people? Ying, you truly possess many rare treasures," Confucius remarked calmly.


    Ying remained silent, his expression unchanged, merely observing.


    Kong Xuan looked at Confucius, his expression cold. This junior had now ascended to the rank of a sage?


    "Family Head!" The three elders who had previously refused to acknowledge Kong Xuan now addressed Confucius as such.


    Family Head? Two family heads?


    "Kong Qiu, do you truly think you are fit to be the head of the family?" Kong Xuan''s voice was icy.


    "Whoever holds the Kong family''s ancestral scepter is the family head. Have you forgotten the rules of the Kong family?" Confucius finally spoke, his tone measured and authoritative.


    Kong Xuan cast a cold nce at Confucius, then swept his gaze over the four elders.


    "Four old men, is this what you believe as well?" Kong Xuan demanded, his voice frigid.


    The four elders fell silent, unsure of how to respond.


    "Hmph, while I was away, the Kong family has fallen into disarray. Is it even the Kong family anymore? Has the Kong family now be a mere branch of the Confucian Sect?" Kong Xuan''s voice was filled with disdain.


    His words struck a nerve with the four elders, who immediately lifted their heads. The pride of the Kong family was something they all held dear, but what did Kong Xuan''s words imply?


    The four elders were not fools. Kong Xuan''s usations made them start to understand, though they were reluctant to fully ept it.


    "Before Kong Qiu arrived, a mere disciple of the Confucian Sect couldmand you? Even the Ancestral Immortals of the Kong family might ept suchmands, but who are you? You are the Four Elders of the Kong family! When did a mere Confucian disciple gain the right to order you around? Have you forgotten the pride of the Kong family during the years I''ve been gone? Have you allowed the Confucian Sect to grow so powerful in your eyes that you would bow to it?" Kong Xuan''s voice was sharp and usatory.


    The Four Elders'' faces turned red with shame, and they shot Zai Wo a furious re. The elder closest to Kong Xuan shook his head, saying, "Today is an exception, a special case, and the first time this has happened."


    "Special? The first time? If I hadn''te today, would there be a second time? A third time? From today onward, were you nning to fully integrate the Kong family into the Confucian Sect? All four elders, gathered together?" Kong Xuan''s voice rose with anger.


    As he spoke, Kong Xuan cast a cold nce at Confucius.


    It was at this moment that the four elders realized why Confucius had insisted they attend this gathering, even if just to observe. It was all a ploy to force them into making a binding decision.


    <i>Kong family? Confucian Sect?</i> Which was more important?


    The four elders were suddenly struck by the gravity of the situation and turned to Confucius, their eyes filled with questioning.


    "I am the head of the Kong family, and I am also the leader of the Confucian Sect. Is there any difference?" Confucius asked sternly.


    "Ridiculous! No difference? The Kong family will always be the Kong family. No matter how powerful the Confucian Sect bes, it can only ever be a branch of the Kong family. No matter how great your aplishments, Kong Qiu, even if you are a sage, you are still just a member of the Kong family, nothing more!" Kong Xuan retorted angrily.


    Upon hearing this, the four elders nodded in agreement. The Kong family and the Confucian Sect��Kong Xuan was right, the Kong family must take precedence.


    Confucius looked at Kong Xuan and said, "I acknowledge you as the former family head, but don''t forget the rules of the Kong family. I am the family head now. In the Kong family, I am the highest authority, unless you no longer consider yourself a member of the Kong family."


    With these words, Confucius was essentially threatening to expel Kong Xuan from the Kong family.


    The Four Elders were momentarily speechless. On one hand, they had the former family head, and on the other, the current family head��it was an incredibly difficult situation.


    "Who gave the scepter to Kong Qiu?" Kong Xuan asked coldly, his gaze fixed on the Four Elders.


    "We did, after much deliberation. At the time, we believed you were dead, and Kong Qiu had be a sage. His influence and status in the world had reached their peak. For the strength of the Kong family, we handed the scepter to Kong Qiu," the elder closest to Kong Xuan exined after some thought.


    "And why did I originally give the scepter to you? What were my instructions?" Kong Xuan''s voice was icy.


    "To repay the debt we owed to the ancient Heavenly Emperor, Di Jun. The Kong family agreed to serve as protectors of Di Jun''s descendants, safeguarding the Great Shang dynasty until the end of its destiny. At that time, you served as the general of Jinji Ridge under the Great Shang. When the dynasty fell, and Emperor Zhou, Di Xin, perished, our family''s debt was fulfilled. Before you left to serve as a protector, you entrusted the scepter to the four of us, instructing us to guard it until your return," one of the Kong family elders admitted with shame.


    "You remember that? And what did you do? What has be of the Kong family in my absence? Has it fallen so low that it has be just another branch of a sect?" Kong Xuan''s eyes zed with fury.


    The weight of the former family head''s authority was overwhelming. Kong Xuan''s words filled the elders with a deep sense of guilt.


    "Kong Qiu became a sage, and with your disappearance and the many powerful enemies hunting you, we assumed you had died. Otherwise, we never would have..." the elder trailed off, speaking softly.


    "Sage or not, what is more important? The title of sage or the Kong family itself? The Kong family has produced sages before!" Kong Xuan shouted.


    As Kong Xuan berated the Four Elders, they stood there, like chastised children, epting the scolding. However, Kong Xuan''sst statement stunned everyone.


    The Kong family had produced sages before? How could that be possible? Why had they never heard of it?


    After a brief silence, Confucius spoke, "Do you still remember the affairs of the Kong family? Have you forgotten the rules of the Kong family? When the family head''s fate is unknown, the Four Elders are tasked with appointing a new head. This has happened before, and it will happen again. The rules of the Kong family are clear: whoever holds the scepter is the family head. Kong Xuan, do you intend to break the rules of the Kong family?"


    Confucius''s words brought a sense of relief to the previously guilty-looking elders, who now felt slightly more justified in their actions.


    Kong Xuan looked at Confucius with a cold smile and shook his head. "I never cared much about the title of family head. After all, I was the one who disappeared for so many years. I epted the fact that the family would appoint a new head, and in truth, I hade to terms with your position as head of the family years ago. But what I never expected was that you were such a scheming individual!"


    Kong Xuan''s words caused the Four Elders to frown. The Confucian disciples red at him with hostility, perceiving his usation as an attack on Confucius himself.


    Kong Xuan ignored their reactions and continued, "What I never expected was that my ambush by numerous powerful enemies was orchestrated by you. You revealed my whereabouts multiple times. If I hadn''t severed ties with the Kong family to protect it, I might have long since been erased from history. You must have been plotting to take over the family head position for a long time, haven''t you?"


    "What?" The elder closest to Kong Xuan widened his eyes in disbelief.


    The Four Elders and the Kong family''s Ancestral Immortals, except for the two who were disciples of the Confucian Sect, all showed expressions of shock.


    Was the old family head betrayed by the new family head?


    "Utter nonsense!" Confucius retorted coldly.


    "I know you won''t admit it, but I have a confession from your disciple, Zigong. You can''t hide the truth for long; the heavenly secrets have already been revealed!" Kong Xuan''s voice was firm as he produced a set of scrolls and jade slips, which he tossed to the Four Elders.


    The elders'' expressions darkened as they read through the evidence.


    Confucius made no attempt to seize the documents. Doing so would only confirm his guilt and solidify the usations against him.


    "To falsely use someone, you need to fabricate evidence, do you? How disappointing it is that our former family head would stoop to such levels," Confucius remarked disdainfully.


    Confucius remainedposed and dismissive, his attitude leaving the Four Elders confused and uncertain.


    "None of this matters. What matters is the Kong family itself. Under your leadership, the family has lost its way, and that is why I have returned. You are unfit to be the head of this family!" Kong Xuan dered, his voice ringing with conviction.


    <i>You are unfit to be the head of the family!</i>


    With these words, Kong Xuan made his intentions clear: he intended to reim the position of family head.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1029: Granting You Your Wish

    <h4>Chapter 1029: Granting You Your Wish</h4>


    "None of this matters. What truly matters is that under your leadership, the Kong family has lost its identity. That''s why I''vee today! You are unfit to be the family head!" Kong Xuan dered, staring directly at Confucius.


    <i>You are unfit to be the family head!</i>


    With those words, Kong Xuan made his intentions clear��he hade to reim the position of family head.


    The citizens of Xianyang, who had begun to raise their heads and observe the confrontation, looked at the green-robed man with admiration. While sages were typically revered as the most noble beings in the world, they were not viewed as such by the people of Qin, particrly the Hongru Sage, who was far from respected.


    In their hearts, the citizens of Xianyang favored the green-robed man.


    And who was this man? Kong Xuan!


    Those who knew history understood who Kong Xuan was. He was a fearsome figure, once daring to challenge even sages. Historical records described him with the phrase:


    <i>Kong Xuan, born with an indomitable spirit, set his sights high, praised as: The world is vast, yet there is one who can walk alone within it!</i>


    <i>The world is vast, yet there is one who can walk alone within it!</i> What kind of pride and grandeur did that statement represent?


    Aside from the sages, Kong Xuan had long been a role model for many powerful figures. Even among the guests of Qin, countless people admired him.


    Now, Kong Xuan had reappeared, and with his presence, he had temporarily quelled the conflict between Qin and the Confucian Sect. And now, he stood against the Hongru Sage.


    A figure of such caliber was on par with any sage!


    After tens of thousands of years, Kong Xuan had returned to challenge the Hongru Sage. What kind of spectacle would this create? Some were so excited that they trembled at the thought. This confrontation promised to be even more thrilling than the previous battle of Ancestral Immortals.


    "I am the family head of the Kong family. How dare you, Kong Xuan, attempt to overthrow the Kong family? I can expel you from the family this very moment under the family rules!" Confucius retorted sternly.


    "Hahahaha!"


    Kong Xuanughed loudly, then turned to Confucius with a fierce gaze.


    "Expel me from the family? Hmph, so what if you''re a sage? The Kong family has be your pawn, and you are unfit to be the family head. Elders, don''t you agree?" Kong Xuan turned to the Four Elders.


    Kong Xuan was seeking the support of the Four Elders to remove Confucius from his position as family head.


    The Four Elders exchanged nces, showing signs of hesitation but not outright refusal.


    Confucius nced at the Four Elders and said calmly, "The Kong family was in decline until I took over and restored its name to greatness. Who in the Great Thousand World does not know the Kong family now? I have elevated the Kong family to its highest point. I am deserving of this role. As for this former family head, who seeks to overthrow the family''s authority and sow discord within the Kong family, do you not have a duty to remove this traitor from our ranks?"


    Confucius''s words further deepened the Four Elders'' frowns.


    The other members of the Kong family, despite their high status��even those who were Ancestral Immortals��dared not speak up, for theycked the authority to do so.


    The Four Elders floated together, creating a soundproof barrier as they engaged in a heated discussion. It was clear that their deliberation was intense.


    After the time it took for an incense stick to burn, the barrier was removed, and the Four Elders seemed to have reached a consensus. Their faces were tinged withplexity as they looked between Kong Xuan and Confucius, struggling to find the right words.


    On the other side, Zai Wo, a member of the Confucian Sect, grew increasingly anxious. He had waited for the others to finish their discussion, hoping to speak up, but now it seemed he could no longer hold back.


    "Master, hurry, save Zilu! It was Zhong Shan��Zilu was devoured by Zhong Shan''s beast! If we don''t act now, Zilu will truly die!" Zai Wo shouted urgently.


    Zai Wo''s outburst immediately shifted the focus to Zhong Shan, drawing the attention of everyone present. Even Confucius nced in Zhong Shan''s direction. Despite Zhong Shan''s formidable willpower, he couldn''t help but feel a chill run down his spine. The mere gaze of a sage held a terrifying power that was impossible to ignore.


    Meanwhile, Kong Xuan, who had been waiting for the Four Elders of the Kong family to speak, was interrupted by Zai Wo''s desperate plea. A sh of anger crossed Kong Xuan''s eyes as he turned sharply, directing a fierce re at Zai Wo.


    "Does a mere disciple of the Confucian Sect have the right to interrupt when the Kong family speaks?" Kong Xuan''s voice was cold and menacing.


    Kong Xuan''s words were echoed by the Four Elders, who cast disdainful looks at Zai Wo. To them, the Kong family would always be paramount, while the Confucian Sect was secondary. The issue of the family head was of utmost importance to the Kong family, and yet a mere disciple of the Confucian Sect dared to interrupt? Such disrespect was intolerable!


    The Four Elders directed their anger toward Zai Wo as well.


    "But... but you were talking, and my senior brother is about to die!" Zai Wo stammered, summoning the courage to protest.


    In Zai Wo''s mind, as long as his master, Confucius, was present, no one would dare to act against him. Saving his senior brother, Zilu, was paramount.


    "What''s your name?" Kong Xuan asked, narrowing his eyes.


    "Zai Wo," he replied, trying to muster his confidence.


    "Then let me grant you your wish!" Kong Xuan''s voice was icy.


    With those words, Kong Xuan flicked his sleeve, and a stream of five-colored divine light shot forth.


    The Four Elders, however, suddenly stepped in front of Confucius, shielding him from what might follow.


    <i>Boom!</i>


    Zai Wo''s body was obliterated by Kong Xuan''s five-colored divine light.


    It was an incredibly ruthless move��Kong Xuan had killed a disciple of the Confucian Sect right in front of Confucius.


    Zai Wo died in disbelief. How could this be? He had died in front of his master, Confucius? He could hardly believe it as he drew hisst breath.


    The Four Elders stood firm, blocking Confucius. Confucius, meanwhile, remained still.


    Confucius knew that Zai Wo, his disciple, had overstepped his bounds and provoked the Four Elders. By standing in front of him, the elders had shown where their loyaltiesy. If Confucius had intervened, it would have confirmed their worst fears��that he had abandoned the Kong family in favor of the Confucian Sect. The Four Elders would then have fully aligned themselves with Kong Xuan.


    Thus, Confucius held back.


    But the impact of this event was earth-shattering.


    Everyone, without exception, was stunned by what they had just witnessed. Kong Xuan had killed Zai Wo in front of Confucius? How brazen was this Kong Xuan?


    Even the disciples of the Confucian Sect were shocked and outraged. Why hadn''t Confucius saved Zai Wo? Why?


    Sekong, sitting at the back, was also wide-eyed as he observed the scene. <i>A fierce man, indeed. This guy is too overbearing! He dares to kill a Confucian disciple right in front of Confucius? Then again, Zai Wo''s name was asking for it. Now that feeling is getting stronger. I need to find a way to escape, and fast!</i>


    Kong Xuan had intentionally killed Zai Wo, testing whether Confucius would respond. When Confucius held back, Kong Xuan turned to him, recognizing the depth of his restraint.


    "Four Elders, what is your stance on today''s matter?" Kong Xuan asked in a grave tone.


    "Four Elders, please speak," Confucius echoed, nodding slightly.


    At this moment, the elder who had previously repelled Tathagata with the seven-colored divine light stepped forward. He looked at Confucius and then at Kong Xuan before saying, "In the past, the Kong family was still rtively unknown when our family head, Kong Xuan, entered the Shang dynasty as a servant to repay the debt owed to Di Jun. Kong Xuan was the head of the family during those troubled times. Since then, under Kong Qiu''s leadership, the Kong family has grown significantly, reiming some of the grandeur of our ancient ancestors. Though the distinction between the Confucian Sect and the Kong family has be blurred, there''s no denying the strength that Kong Qiu has brought to the family."


    The elder''s words were fair, acknowledging both Kong Xuan as the "Head of the Family in Troubled Times" and Confucius as the "Head of the Family in Prosperity." The Kong family had a difficult choice to make: which leader did they need more?


    One had endured great hardship for the sake of the family, while the other had led the family to strength and prominence. Without this directparison, either could have been seen as a rightful family head. But now, the Four Elders were faced with a tough decision.


    "Choosing one over the other would be a loss for the Kong family, but the family cannot have two heads. We, the Four Elders, have decided to follow the ancientws of the Kong family: to preserve the strength of the family, neither of you shall use the family''s resources in your struggle. You must contend with each other, and the stronger of you will return to lead the family," the elder dered.


    A contest of survival of the fittest? A direct confrontation? It seemed fair on the surface, but Confucius was a sage��how could Kong Xuan possibly contend with him? Yet, this was the rule of the Kong family: if Kong Xuan couldn''t win, it would simply mean hecked the capability.


    "Do either of you have any objections?" the elder asked.


    "None," Kong Xuan responded, his tone rxed and confident.


    "Neither do I," Confucius agreed, having anticipated this decision.


    "In that case, please hand over the family scepter to us, and we will return it to the rightful head in due time," the elder said solemnly.


    Confucius nodded, handing the scepter to the elder.


    "Kong family disciples, hear mymand!" the elder, holding the scepter, called out.


    "Yes!" responded the five Ancestral Immortals from the Kong family.


    "From this day forward, the position of the family head is vacant. Neither Kong Qiu nor Kong Xuan shallmand you until the family is reunited under a single head," the elder decreed.


    "Yes!" the five Ancestral Immortals replied in unison.


    Zhong Shan, observing from afar, took in the scene. This was the might of a powerful family��ten Ancestral Immortals and a sage within a single lineage. Truly, the Kong family was worthy of being called one of the world''s top families.


    "Come, let us return home," the Four Eldersmanded.


    "Yes," came the collective response.


    With that, the Kong family members, save for Confucius and Kong Xuan, all departed. Those who remained knew it was best to leave the area, as theing conflict would be difficult to avoid.


    Kong Xuan continued to watch Confucius intently.


    "Kong Xuan, you''ve proven yourself quite capable," Confucius said, his voice steady.


    As he spoke, the Great Confucian Way manifested around him, stretching from heaven to earth. The radiant white light that enveloped the area was far more powerful than the Great Confucian Way formed earlier by the Confucian disciples. The sky filled with vast Confucian scriptures, their presence overwhelming.


    The remaining Confucian disciples quickly retreated. Sekong, however, didn''t just retreat��he bolted. He wasn''t looking for a safer vantage point; he was fleeing from Xianyang entirely, running as fast and as far as he could until he disappeared from sight.


    "Chirp��!"


    Kong Xuan let out a long cry, and a vast azure Heavenly Dao appeared, stretching from earth to the heavens. This was Kong Xuan''s Heavenly Dao, the very same one Zhong Shan had seen in the East Sea.


    "Chirp��!"


    With another cry, the azure Heavenly Dao began to transform. From it, massive peacock feathers emerged, encircling the entire Heavenly Dao. The sky filled with the images of countless peacocks, each with resplendent tail feathers in five vibrant colors. These peacock phantoms were fierce, their presence overwhelming as they painted the sky in hues of blue.


    Kong Xuan had fully revealed his terrifying power.


    <i>A Peacock Plume Dao?</i> Zhong Shan wondered, furrowing his brow. Was this a unique Dao that Kong Xuan had created��a Dao of Peacock Plumes?


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1030: Zhong Shan Takes Action

    <h4>Chapter 1030: Zhong Shan Takes Action</h4>


    As Kong Xuan unleashed his Peacock Plume Dao, the sky filled with countless fierce peacock phantoms, all roaring violently toward Confucius. Standing firmly within his Dao, Kong Xuan red coldly at his opponent.


    Confucius, maintaining his calm demeanor, remarked, "No wonder you dare to challenge me. You''ve formed your own Dao? But you should know that the gap between an Ancestral Immortal and a Sage is insurmountable. You will never be my match."


    Kong Xuan did not bother to respond. There was no point in engaging in further words with Confucius. His eyes narrowed as hemanded the endless peacock phantoms, alongside the force of his Peacock Plume Dao, to charge at the Great Confucian Way.


    The two Daos collided!


    "Boom!"


    The sh of these two massive Daos created a supermassive ck hole, as if tearing a giant rift in the very fabric of the heavens and earth. The surrounding area was engulfed in a terrifying shockwave. Beyond the protective bounds of Xianyang, vast swathes ofnd were reduced to dust��the impact of the Daos'' collision was that powerful.


    Inside Chongtian Hall, the gathered experts shielded the hall from the worst of the effects, but outside, the world was thrown into chaos. Everything became a blur, indistinguishable amidst the trembling and swirling darkness, with only faint glimpses of white and blue light cutting through the void.


    The earth shook for an entire hour, and by the time the tremors subsided, the guests who had managed to endure were left trembling with fear. The might of a Sage was truly capable of destroying the world. The thought that they were on the opposing side of the Confucian Sect now filled them with dread.


    When the tremors finally ceased, the ck hole gradually filled in as the space healed.


    The white Great Confucian Way stood tall and unshaken, radiating a blinding white light. The air was filled with the sound of Confucian scriptures and floating texts that spread in all directions. Meanwhile, the remnants of countless peacock plumes floated through the air.


    Confucius remained calm, still hovering in the sky, while Kong Xuan stared at him, breathing heavily. It was clear that the previous hour of battle had tipped in Confucius''s favor.


    "It''s useless. You can''t even break through my Great Confucian Way, so how could you possibly harm me? I''m standing here, unmoving, and yet you can''t touch me. You''re no match for me. Return to the Kong family, and I''ll make you an elder. Together, we can lead the Kong family to new heights," Confucius said, his tone smooth and persuasive.


    "Hahahaha!"


    Kong Xuanughed loudly, his pride unshaken. The idea of being subordinate to anyone, especially Confucius, was unthinkable. Kong Xuan would never bow orpromise.


    But from the way the battle was going, it was clear that Kong Xuan was at a disadvantage. How could he possibly defeat a Sage like Confucius?


    The guests in Chongtian Hall grew increasingly anxious. If Kong Xuan were to lose easily, would Confucius then turn his attention to them?


    Zhong Shan turned to look at Ying. Despite the fierce battle between Kong Xuan and Confucius, Ying remained the epitome of calm, even though he was at the center of this chaotic struggle. Was he not worried at all?


    Indeed, Ying showed no signs of concern, at least not outwardly. He exuded a terrifying calmness, his eyes sharp and focused, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the armrest as if waiting for something, perhaps even calcting something.


    Beside Ying, Guiguzi remained shrouded in his ck robe, motionless as he watched the battle unfold, seemingly anticipating something as well.


    From their demeanor, Zhong Shan deduced that there was a reason Ying was refraining from acting��it had to be rted to the situation at hand. But what was Ying''s goal? Was he nning to ally with Kong Xuan against Confucius? That didn''t seem likely.


    It was clear that Kong Xuan had already been in contact with Ying before, otherwise, Zhong Shan''s departure from the East Sea wouldn''t have gone so smoothly. Kong Xuan must have been near Xianyang Holy Capital all along, only revealing himself at thest moment. What were they waiting for?


    In the distance, the battle continued. Kong Xuan''s earlier attacks had failed to harm Confucius, and his expression grew increasingly serious.


    Suddenly, on the other side of the Great Confucian Way, another Dao appeared. No, it was still the Peacock Plume Dao, but within it emerged another Kong Xuan.


    Two Peacock Plume Daos, and two Kong Xuans?


    Everyone was momentarily stunned. What kind of technique was this?


    Suddenly, another two Peacock Plume Daos appeared around the Great Confucian Way.


    Now, there were a total of four Peacock Plume Daos, each seemingly containing a version of Kong Xuan, all with the same cold expression, staring intently at Confucius in the center.


    Confucius remained silent, his gaze sharp.


    "Impressive technique," Confucius remarked coldly.


    Kong Xuan continued to ignore Confucius, focusing entirely on the battle. The four identical Daos converged on the Great Confucian Way, crashing into it with relentless force.


    "Boom!"


    The impact was even more violent than before, with the collision creating a chaotic storm that obscured everything within. The violent shaking once again filled the guests with unease, and many now desperately wished to distance themselves from this conflict. However, at this point, escape was impossible. There was no way out.


    Fortunately, this bout of shaking, though intense,sted only half as long as before. After half an hour, the ck hole began to close, and the battlefield was once again revealed.


    Kong Xuan''s four Daos had merged back into one, but his body was now slightly hunched, as if he had sustained serious injuries. Yet, his expression remained fiercely determined.


    As for Confucius, he stood within his Great Confucian Way, his posture unwavering. However, a section of his sleeve had been torn.


    <i>The invincibility of a Sage?</i> Though Confucius had not been injured, Kong Xuan''s attack had managed to leave some effect, however small.


    Kong Xuan''s fierce resolve was evident.


    He took several deep breaths, while Confucius, still within the Great Confucian Way, seemed to have been provoked.


    "Hmph, stubborn fool!" Confucius snorted, his voiceced with contempt.


    The terrifying aura of the Sage radiated outward, making it impossible for the citizens of Xianyang to look upon him. Under this oppressive aura, the Great Confucian Way trembled slightly, and suddenly, seven more Daos appeared behind it. Although these were not identical to the Great Confucian Way, they exuded an overwhelming and fearsome power.


    Confucius had truly unleashed his wrath, summoning seven Daos with a mere gesture.


    The colors of these seven Daos bore a resemnce to the seven-colored divine light seen earlier.


    "So, you haven''t forgotten the true power of the Kong family!" Kong Xuan sneered.


    Confucius had truly been angered now. The seven Daos surged forward, encircling the Peacock Plume Dao just as they had previously surrounded Confucius. The collision of these Daos was bound to be catastrophic.


    While the might of a Dao doesn''t necessarily surpass that of a Heavenly Dao, the strength of the wielder of the Dao is paramount. A Dao belongs entirely to its master, who can fully wield its power. However, a Heavenly Dao is a universal principle, and even an Ancestral Immortal who has merged with a Heavenly Dao may not be able to fully control it, especially when two Ancestral Immortals sh using the same Dao.


    For Kong Xuan, being surrounded by seven Daos was a disaster.


    Seeing this, Kong Xuan''s eyes narrowed. He suddenly made a sweeping gesture with his hand.


    "Buzz!"


    The void trembled as yet another Dao shot skyward. This one was a tinum-gold Dao, which immediately broke through two of Confucius''s Daos.


    Even Confucius''s seven Daos hesitated for a moment.


    Confucius regarded this tinum-gold Dao with a solemn expression. It exuded an eerie blend of Confucian, Buddhist, and Immortal energies, making it appear exceedingly strange.


    At the center of this Dao floated a bizarre creature.


    It was a golden deity with seventeen arms, each holding a different object, and three eyes on its head. However, one of its arms had been severed, as if it had been cut off in battle.


    "Zhun Ti''s Dharmakaya?" Confucius remarked with a serious tone.


    The two Heavenly Daos that had previously been obstructing the path strangely parted ways under the influence of the tinum-gold Dao. It wasn''t due to the overwhelming power of this Dao, but rather because it carried a distinct aura of Confucianism within it.


    Could this be the Dao of Zhun Ti?


    Zhun Ti, a once revered sage, was thought to have perished tens of thousands of years ago, yet his legacy remained well-known:


    <i>Half-Buddhist, half-Daoist, and also half-immortal, Master of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism, theplete sage. He governed the Western Heavens with the Seven Lotus Petals and Nine Mystical Trees.</i>


    This was how the Sage Zhun Ti was described, which exined why his Dao carried traces of Confucian energy.


    At that moment, Kong Xuan''s expression shifted, for the 18-Armed Golden Dharmakaya, originally one of his treasures, had suddenly slipped from his control.


    "How could this be?" Kong Xuan eximed in shock.


    Everyone could see that something had gone wrong, but no one knew exactly what.


    The tinum-gold Dao began to move slowly, and shockingly, it was headed towards Chongtian Hall.


    "Whoosh!"


    From the direction of Chongtian Hall, a white Heavenly Dao shot skyward. It was Bodhi Patriarch, who had suddenly stepped forward, spreading his arms as he positioned himself within his Heavenly Dao, drawing closer to the tinum-gold Dao.


    What was Bodhi Patriarch nning?


    Everyone watched in astonishment, while Tathagata simply smiled, as if he already knew the oue.


    Kong Xuan watched from a distance, his eyes fixated on Bodhi Patriarch and the 18-Armed Golden Dharmakaya as they drew nearer to each other. To his further surprise, Zhun Ti''s Dao and Bodhi Patriarch''s Heavenly Dao began to merge into one.


    "Bodhi Patriarch?" Kong Xuan uttered in disbelief.


    At this moment, Confucius made no move to intervene, allowing Bodhi Patriarch and the golden Dharmakaya toe into contact.


    As they did, a strange phenomenon urred.


    "Buzz!"


    The tinum-gold Dao trembled lightly, then suddenly vanished, leaving Bodhi Patriarch and the golden Dharmakaya seemingly fused into one entity.


    "Zhun Ti, could it be you? Are you truly the old Zhun Ti?" Kong Xuan eximed with a mix of surprise and hope.


    However, Bodhi Patriarch''s face contorted in pain, and he did not respond to Kong Xuan. The golden Dharmakaya enveloped him like armor, but his expression was twisted,cking the majestic bearing of the Sage Zhun Ti.


    "It''s useless!" Confucius suddenly interjected.


    His words drew the attention of everyone present.


    "Zhun Ti was indeed meticulous in his calctions," Confucius continued. "Bodhi Patriarch is nothing more than the ''evil corpse'' that Zhun Ti cast away after washing away his own memories. He entrusted you with the golden Dharmakaya, intending to reunite it with the ''evil corpse'' at the right moment, allowing Zhun Ti to return to the world. But s, you damaged the 18-Armed Golden Dharmakaya, rendering it iplete. Even the slightest imperfection prevents Zhun Ti from fully returning. He has truly be part of history now!" Confucius sneered.


    "Kong Qiu, do you really think your schemes can surpass those of Zhun Ti?" Kong Xuan retorted coldly.


    "Whether they surpass his or not is irrelevant. But long ago, I realized that your 18-Armed Golden Dharmakaya was problematic. I had often considered tracking you down to destroy it, but a calction I made several centuries ago revealed that the Dharmakaya had already been damaged. It turns out that you were your own worst enemy!" Confucius remarked with a satisfied tone.


    Kong Xuan''s gaze shifted to the distant Bodhi Patriarch, who was clearly in agony.


    The golden Dharmakaya, now missing one arm, was unable to fully merge with Bodhi Patriarch''s body.


    "Hmph, you should be more concerned about yourself!" Confucius dered as he prepared to strike again.


    Confucius cast a cold nce at Chongtian Hall before sneering, "Chongtian Hall? Hmph!"


    The powerful Heavenly Dao surged towards Kong Xuan, causing the world to shake violently once more. Tathagata quickly flew out to retrieve Bodhi Patriarch, bringing him back to safety. The outer world trembled, leaving many of the guests in Chongtian Hall trembling with fear. The chilling voice of Confucius still echoed in their minds��if Confucius defeated Kong Xuan, would he then turn on them?


    Bodhi Patriarch, now encased in the golden Dharmakaya, was in visible pain.


    "Master! Master, are you alright? Please,e out!" Sun Shen called out anxiously.


    Meanwhile, the others in Chongtian Hall were growing increasingly worried.


    Zhong Shan, however, wore a peculiar expression. The missing arm of the 18-Armed Golden Dharmakaya had been severed by him in the Small Thousand World, and it had even been consumed by his Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail. Could it be that the reason Zhun Ti couldn''t return was because of him?


    No one noticed Zhong Shan''s strange expression, as everyone else was engaged in anxious conversation.


    "Tathagata, can you reattach this arm? Could it restore Zhun Ti?" Lan inquired.


    "It''s impossible. The 18-Armed Golden Dharmakaya of Sage Zhun Ti is unique. Each part contains different essences of form and meaning. Even if one could remember its original shape, it wouldn''t be possible to restore the essence and meaning within it. This is likely an aspect of Sage Zhun Ti''s destiny, and it can''t be replicated," Tathagata shook his head.


    "Give it a try anyway. After all, he once stayed in the Great Thunder Sound Temple. You should have some memory of him," Lan urged.


    "I''ll do my best," Tathagata nodded, knowing that this was no time to refuse.


    He sped his hands together, gathering a vast amount of golden light to form a divine arm with an intricate and profound shape. Slowly, he attempted to attach it to the missing arm of the golden Dharmakaya.


    "Rumble!" Bodhi Patriarch shook violently within the Dharmakaya, even spitting out blood.


    Tathagata immediately removed the golden arm.


    "It''s no use. The 18-Armed Golden Dharmakaya of Sage Zhun Ti contains the essences of Buddhism, Daoism, and Confucianism, along with various divine rhythms. It''s impossible to replicate. I''ve done all I can. If I continue, it might further harm Bodhi Patriarch," Tathagata sighed, shaking his head.


    "Esteemed elders, I beg you, save my master! Even if he can''t be Zhun Ti again, at least save him from this cursed Dharmakaya!" Sun Shen pleaded desperately.


    Everyone wanted to help, but who among them had a solution? The situation seemed impossible.


    "I... I can give it a try," a hesitant voice spoke from behind Tathagata.


    Sun Shen''s face lit up with hope, and the others turned to see who had spoken, only to realize it was Zhong Shan.


    "Zhong Shan? Are you trying to harm my master? Get away from him!" Sun Shen shouted, immediately jumping to his feet.


    But Zhong Shan ignored Sun Shen''s outburst, as did the others. Despite their doubts, they found Zhong Shan more credible than Sun Shen.


    "Zhong Shan, can you really do this?" Tathagata asked, his voice filled with uncertainty. If even he couldn''t repair the arm, how could Zhong Shan?


    "I''ll give it a shot," Zhong Shan said, rubbing his nose with a wry smile. It seemed that the mistake he made in the past was now something he had to fix himself.


    Sun Shen tried to rush forward, but Tathagata held him in ce with a single gesture, rendering him immobile.


    "Tathagata, let me go! He''s trying to harm my master!" Sun Shen yelled frantically.


    But Tathagata paid no attention to his cries.


    Zhong Shan approached the spot where the arm had been severed, examining it closely. He extended his right hand, and energy began to gather in his palm.


    What could Zhong Shan possibly do? He could only have the Eight Extremities Heavenly Tail regurgitate the golden arm that it had consumed in the past, using the recently devoured Zilu to replenish any lost energy.


    Slowly, the shape of an arm began to materialize in Zhong Shan''s palm. However, the arm looked incredibly crude, resembling two lumps of gold rather than a proper limb. It had no discernible shape, not even fingers��just two roughly hewn segments.


    Everyone watched in stunned disbelief as Zhong Shan presented the strange, rudimentary "arm" he had created. Even Zhong Shan himself felt a bit embarrassed; the original arm had been so thoroughly consumed that what he managed to produce was a mere approximation��two segments resembling golden carrots, rather than anything close to the elegant form of the original limb. Yet, these golden segments still contained the vital energy, the "essence" and "form," that had once been part of the true arm.


    The onlookers, including Tathagata and Lan, exchanged puzzled nces. Sun Shen, however, was outraged.


    "Tathagata, stop him! He''s a fool! He''s doing this on purpose! This is even worse than what you made! How could this be an arm for the golden Dharmakaya? It''s just two pieces of carrot! Stop him now!" Sun Shen shouted frantically.


    On the other side, Zhong Shan noticed that Ying and Guiguzi seemed entirely uninterested in Zhun Ti''s predicament, their focus remaining firmly on the distant battlefield. They paid no attention to the bizarre scene unfolding in front of them.


    Zhong Shan''s creation was so absurd that it left even the guests across the hall rolling their eyes. How could something as crude as this possibly serve as an arm for the Dharmakaya? Some even began to believe Sun Shen''s usations��that Zhong Shan was deliberately sabotaging the situation, perhaps as a form of revenge for the humiliation he had suffered at the hands of Bodhi Patriarch on Shengshi Mountain.


    "Zhong Shan, are you sure this will work?" Even Hao Meili, who normally had great faith in Zhong Shan, couldn''t help but voice her doubts.


    She had seen the original arm during the battle between Zhong Shan and Kong Xuan; the intricately crafted limb that held the lotus mudra was far superior to these "carrots" Zhong Shan had produced.


    "Zhong Shan, what exactly are you doing?" Tathagata asked, equally perplexed.


    "Let''s just give it a try," Zhong Shan replied with a resigned smile, acknowledging the absurdity of the situation.


    "No! You can''t let him try! He''s trying to harm my master!" Sun Shen continued to protest, but his pleas fell on deaf ears. Tathagata did not release him, fully aware that Zhong Shan, despite the odd appearance of his creation, was not someone to be taken lightly.


    The world outside the hall was still embroiled in a fierce battle, but no one was paying attention to it anymore. All eyes were on Zhong Shan and the golden "carrots" he held.


    Carefully, Zhong Shan brought the crude golden segments closer to the severed limb of the Dharmakaya.


    Sun Shen had already given up, his gaze filled with hatred as he watched Zhong Shan.


    The others, too, braced themselves for what they assumed would be Bodhi Patriarch''s inevitable demise. If Tathagata''s carefully crafted arm had caused such severe damage, what would this rudimentary attempt do?


    "Crack!"


    A crisp sound echoed through the hall, freezing everyone in ce. The crude golden segments had seamlessly fused with the Dharmakaya''s severed limb.


    The result wasically awkward��a pristine golden Dharmakaya now sported a bent, carrot-like arm. Yet, despite the bizarre appearance, the moment the arm connected, Bodhi Patriarch''splexion visibly improved. The massive golden Dharmakaya then began to shrink, merging back into Bodhi Patriarch''s body.


    It worked?


    Sun Shen was at a loss for words, nearly choking on his own frustration. He could only mutter incoherently to himself.


    Tathagata looked on in mild surprise, ncing back and forth between Zhong Shan and Bodhi Patriarch. Lan, on the other hand, had been watching Zhong Shan with a knowing smile, his eyes gleaming with understanding.


    "Whoosh!"


    An overwhelming wave of golden and white light began converging from all directions.


    "Boom!"


    The previously diminished tinum-gold Dao surged skyward once more, stabilizing the chaotic environment around Chongtian Hall.


    The earth and heavens seemed to calm, settling into an eerie stillness.


    In the distance, where the two Kongs had been locked in battle, their fight came to an abrupt and unnatural halt. All eyes turned towards the unexpected turn of events at Chongtian Hall, as a sense of foreboding loomed over everyone present.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1031: The Former Sage Zhunti

    <h4>Chapter 1031: The Former Sage Zhunti</h4>


    In the Chongtian Hall, a tinum beam of light shot up into the sky. The trembling space outside suddenly stabilized, as if an immense force had shocked everything into stillness.


    In the distance, two fierce battlefields also came to an abrupt halt.


    The ck holes quickly filled in, and the space gradually stabilized, revealing the two figures on the battlefield.


    Within the Peacock Plume Dao, a trickle of blood seeped from the corner of Kong Xuan''s mouth. His face was pale, but the fierce expression on his face never wavered. Despite being gravely injured all over, he kept his eyes fixed on Confucius, before slowly turning his gaze toward the sky above Chongtian Hall.


    Within the Hongru Dao, Confucius'' clothes were also slightly damaged in ces, but his proud demeanor showed that the injuries he had sustained were minimal.


    Saints and Ancestral Immortals��there was still a clear gap, with the Saint holding the advantage. No matter how powerful Kong Xuan had be, he was still no match for a Saint.


    Confucius looked at the tinum Dao in the distance, his fist clenched slightly.


    Zhunti had been reborn?


    Confucius couldn''t believe it. How had Zhunti managed to rise again? ording to his calctions, Zhunti''s golden body with eighteen arms and three eyes had beenpletely destroyed. His destiny was shattered; how could he make aeback? Because of this, Confucius had allowed Bodhi Patriarch to merge with the golden body, confident that no one could fill that gap��not even a Saint.


    But now?


    A quick calction, and Confucius knew what had happened!


    Was it that man named Zhong Shan?


    Anger surged in Confucius'' heart as he turned his gaze towards Zhong Shan.


    "Hmph!"


    A cold snort echoed.


    An overwhelming aura pressed directly towards Zhong Shan.


    "Stop!" Hao Meili suddenly screamed.


    With a wave of her hand, a page from a book materialized in the void, immediately blocking Zhong Shan. It was a page from the Book of Life and Death.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A surge of energy swept past Zhong Shan, sending Hao Meili staggering back several steps before being caught in Zhong Shan''s embrace. A trickle of blood appeared at the corner of her mouth as she red at Confucius with hatred in her eyes.


    "Kong Qiu, do you really have the face to curse a junior?"


    Suddenly, a gentle voice echoed in the void. Though the voice was soft, it eerily reached the ears of everyone across the heavens and earth.


    The speaker was none other than Bodhi Patriarch��no, at this moment, it was no longer Bodhi Patriarch.


    Within the tinum Dao, the figure still bore the appearance of Bodhi Patriarch, but his robes had changed from white to tinum, exuding a faint metallic sheen. His gaze had also grown sharper, as he stepped out to stand in front of Chongtian Hall.


    "Old wretch Zhunti, you''re really alive!" A trace of joy shed across Kong Xuan''s face.


    "Zhunti!" Confucius said in a deep voice.


    In the tinum Dao, the reborn Zhunti nodded slightly at Kong Xuan, then turned his gaze back to Confucius.


    Sun Shen, standing in Chongtian Hall, was slightly excited. His master had transformed into a Former Saint? Zhunti Sage? Although the Sage title was no longer there, Sun Shen still knew how powerful the former Sage had been.


    Zhong Shan had seen it clearly earlier. Zhunti''s face was still recognizable, just like the Grand Supreme''s��he had a clear face. Only the reborn Ya was different.


    As Zhunti gazed at Confucius, his fingers moved slightly. After a brief calction, Zhunti exhaled softly.


    "The changes in the world are indeed immense," Zhunti murmured with a hint ofment.


    "Zhunti, do you intend to stop me?" Confucius asked in a deep voice.


    "Leave now, and I can pretend I saw nothing," Zhunti replied calmly.


    Confucius hesitated for a moment. It was supposed to be his line.


    "A former Sage? Revealing yourself before others��aren''t you afraid of the repercussions from the heavenly mandate?" Confucius pressed.


    Zhunti smiled slightly and said, "I understand the heavenly mandate better than you."


    Zhunti''s tone was bold, but he had the right to be. Though Confucius was a Saint and one of the closest to the heavenly mandate, when it came to understanding it, he was still no match for Zhunti. At the very least, Confuciuscked the courage to defy the mandate of heaven.


    "Whoosh!"


    Zhunti took a step forward and appeared beside Kong Xuan. He nced at both Confucius and Kong Xuan.


    "You''ve regressed," Zhunti said lightly.


    Zhunti''s words were directed at Kong Xuan. The guests in Chongtian Hall fell silent. Kong Xuan had regressed? Was that true? He had been so formidable just now��if this was considered regressing, what was he like before?


    "There are still some things I haven''t reimed. Naturally, I''m not as powerful as I was when I fought you in the past," Kong Xuan replied frankly.


    Zhunti nodded and turned his gaze back to Confucius. "Leave now. You know the situation. Confucianism isn''t something you created; you graduallyprehended it from imitating the Zhou rites. I understand Confucianism as well. With me here, you won''t gain anything. Even if Kong Xuan and I can''t keep you here, you''ll pay a heavy price. You must know, there are far too many Ancestral Immortals eyeing your Sage position. If you engage in a life-and-death struggle with us, the price you''ll pay will be unbearable."


    Kong Xuan furrowed his brow slightly, but since Zhunti had spoken, he didn''t interrupt. There was undoubtedly some n of Zhunti''s at y here.


    Confucius looked at the two of them and said coldly, "Do you know who you''re talking to? You''ve already lost your Sage position. Do you still think you have the right tomand me?"


    Zhunti stared at Confucius, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Come out. Your aura is too familiar; you can''t hide from me."


    As soon as Zhunti finished speaking, the brows of many guests in Chongtian Hall furrowed. What did Zhunti mean? Was someone else hiding nearby? Someone who even Kong Xuan hadn''t detected?


    "Whoosh!"


    A sh of white light appeared in the sky, and another terrifying aura descended. This aura was filled with dominance, making everyone tremble in fear.


    Another figure in white suddenly appeared beside the Hongru Dao.


    "It''s Sage Mitian?" Hao Meili, still lying in Zhong Shan''s arms, eximed.


    In the sky, the figure''s face was indistinct, but an aura no less powerful than Confucius'' emanated from him. It was none other than Sage Mitian, who had recently stormed the Heavenly Court!


    Two Sages?


    Xianyang Holy City had truly be a gathering ce for the powerful. Two Sages had appeared at once, and it seemed they were both adversaries.


    "Now, who should leave?" Confucius asked in a deep voice.


    Zhunti looked at Mitian with a hint of seriousness, then shook his head and said, "Mitian, it seems Hongjun was right. You''vepletely be ackey of the heavenly mandate."


    Sage Mitian didn''t get angry. Instead, he looked Zhunti up and down and said, "Knowing it''s impossible yet still rushing to your death like a moth to a me��you seven are the ones with problems. Even with the supreme positions of heaven and earth, you remain unsatisfied? Ackey of the heavenly mandate? Are you even worthy? Look at yourself, then look at me. Ignorant fool!"


    On the za of Chongtian Hall, the guests'' attention was already captivated by the powerful figures in the distance. The decisions made by these titans could determine their very lives. But now, with two Sages present, what should they do?


    Zhong Shan also watched solemnly. asionally, he nced at Ying, noticing that Ying''s expression remained unchanged. Ying continued to stare at Confucius just as before, seemingly ignoring the sudden appearance of Sage Mitian.


    What exactly was Ying waiting for?


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1032: Ying鈥檚 Objective

    <h4>Chapter 1032: Ying��s Objective</h4>


    Above Xianyang Holy City.


    The appearance of the second Sage, Mitian, furtherplicated the situation. Although Zhunti was powerful, having lost his Sage position meant that he could no longer wield the forces of heaven and earth as effortlessly as a true Sage. Originally, with Zhunti''s arrival, even if they couldn''t defeat Confucius, they could at least force him to retreat. Thebined strength of Kong Xuan and Zhunti, especially if they fought recklessly, would inevitably injure even a Sage. And with countless eyes in the Great Thousand World fixed on Confucius'' Sage position, he was unlikely to take such a risk.


    However, with the arrival of another Sage, the situation had taken a sudden turn.


    The bnce was now decisively tipped! Zhunti had no chance of victory left.


    "Zhunti, my Mitian Pce could use a gatekeeper. Would you be interested? You''re a bit old, but I wouldn''t mind having you as a servant of my Mitian Pce!" Sage Mitian mocked with a sneer.


    In the distance, Hao Meili, lying in Zhong Shan''s arms, suddenly burst outughing.


    At such a tense moment, with nearly everyone''s nerves on edge,pletely focused on the scene, Hao Meili''sughter caught everyone by surprise.


    "And what, may I ask, is so amusing, young friend?" Tathagata asked as he looked at Hao Meili.


    Lan also nced at Hao Meili, puzzled by what could possibly be funny in this situation. Even Zhong Shan turned to her in surprise.


    "What''s so funny?" Zhong Shan asked, confused.


    "I''mughing at Sage Mitian''s dwelling!" Hao Meili chuckled again.


    "His dwelling?"


    "The Mitian Pce?"


    As the thought sank in, many people''s expressions changed subtly. It was as if they wanted tough but couldn''t, leaving them with strange, contorted faces.


    Some people, however, didn''t get it and began asking those around them.


    "What''s wrong with the Mitian Pce? Why are you making that face? What''s wrong with Mitian Pce? Mi... Tiangong... Oh! Mi-Tian-Gong!" one person suddenly eximed in realization.


    Tathagata chanted a Buddha''s name, while Lan burst into heartyughter, "Indeed, living in something like Mi-Tian-Gong must require an incredible amount of courage!"


    Lan''s loudughter instantly eased the tension among the crowd, and soon, many others joined in theughter.


    Far off in the sky, Mitian was in the middle of ridiculing Zhunti when he suddenly sensed something off about the atmosphere. Laughter was echoing from Chongtian Hall.


    Laughter?


    Not only Mitian, but Zhunti, Kong Xuan, and Confucius also nced over in curiosity. What could possibly make these peopleugh at such a critical moment? It didn''t make sense!


    Just as they turned their heads, they heard Lan''s boomingughter: "Indeed, living in Mi-Tian-Gong must require an incredible amount of courage!"


    Upon hearing this, the four powerful figures who had been facing off against each other fell into an abrupt silence.


    Complete silence, as the conversation happening in Chongtian Hall was so out of sync with the deadly serious conflict between them that it left even the Sages momentarily dumbfounded.


    Mitian Pce, Mi-Tian-Gong?


    Kong Xuan, Zhunti, and Confucius all instinctively shifted their gaze to Sage Mitian.


    The space around Sage Mitian suddenly began to ripple slightly, clearly indicating that he was boiling with anger and shame.


    "Courting death~~~~~~~~~~~!" Sage Mitian''s voice dripped with icy malice as he unleashed a fierce killing intent towards Chongtian Hall.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Instantly, powerful spatial ripples erupted outside the hall.


    Unbeknownst to anyone, Lan had already stepped forward, standing in front of everyone.


    With his head held high and eyes zing with anger, Lan blocked the tangible killing intent emanating from Sage Mitian. Lan, who had been one of Ying''s honored guests, alongside Zhunti, had always kept a low profile, never showing his full strength. But now, though he hadn''t directly confronted Sage Mitian, his overwhelming presence was evident.


    Even in the face of a Sage, Lan chose not to flee but to confront him head-on.


    "What''s this? Sage Mitian dares to establish Mitian Pce but doesn''t allow others to speak about it?" Lan retorted coldly.


    "Who are you?" Sage Mitian demanded, his tone stern.


    "Who am I? You can figure that out yourself. If you want trouble with me,e to my Chaodu anytime��I''ll be waiting. But for now, you should focus on the matter at hand," Lan replied arrogantly.


    As Lan finished speaking, Sage Mitian quickly calcted Lan''s origins, his expression bing more serious. What did Lan mean by that?


    "Namaste Amitabha!"


    "Namaste Amitabha!"


    "Namaste Amitabha!"


    Suddenly, the sky above Xianyang Holy City resounded with Buddhist chants. A golden radiance burst forth in all directions, and countless floating ''�d'' symbols appeared in the air.


    The immense aura that filled the heavens seemed to diminish even the Sage''s presence.


    The citizens of Xianyang, hearing the Buddha''s chant, felt a deep sense of peace within their hearts. The oppressive atmosphere that had weighed on them moments ago vanished, and they even dared to lift their heads and look towards the sky.


    In the sky, both Confucius and Sage Mitian paused momentarily.


    Beside Zhunti, a golden figure suddenly appeared, revealing a slightly chubby young man. The man''s face was serene, evoking a sense of timeless memory in those who saw him.


    Kong Xuan frowned as he watched, while Zhunti offered a slight bow to the young man beside him, "Dao Brother!"


    The chubby youth nodded to Zhunti and replied, "Dao Brother!"


    "Jieyin~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!" Sage Mitian seemed to grit his teeth as he spat out the name.


    "Sage Mitian, we meet again!" The chubby youth continued to smile kindly.


    Seeing Sage Mitian''s clenched fists, it was clear he had no desire to encounter this Jieyin.


    Ying''s grand birthday celebration had drawn so many ancient figures��why had so many old-timers shown up?


    In the distance, the guests at Chongtian Hall were first stunned, then a look of joy spread across their faces.


    Jieyin? Another former Sage, another former Sage? Today''s events were truly a once-in-ten-thousand-years gathering. With Jieyin and Zhunti greeting each other, and with the rumors of their close friendship during their time as Sages, perhaps they were saved after all!


    Nearly everyone let out a sigh of relief.


    But Zhong Shan wore an expression of disbelief. Was this... Jieyin? He was Jieyin? Wasn''t he Su Afo?


    As he stared at the face identical to Su Afo''s, even down to the slightly chubby build, Zhong Shan found himself lost in thought.


    In the distance, the battle situation had once again undergone a drastic shift. A strange twist of fate had urred.


    Jieyin was a being even more formidable than Zhunti. Even if he wasn''t a Sage anymore, he was likely as close as one could get. Though it was said that Zhuangzi was the closest to achieving Sagehood, in front of these former Sages, Zhuangzi paled inparison.


    Confucius never anticipated that the situation would turn so bizarre��not only had Zhunti been reborn, but even Jieyin had arrived as well. This...?


    A wave of frustration surged within Confucius, and he nced towards Chongtian Hall in the distance. As he turned his head, his heart tightened. Two pairs of eyes, two pairs of eyes had been fixed on him all along, as if they had never shifted. For some reason, this made Confucius feel a sudden unease.


    The two pairs of eyes belonged to his ultimate target, Ying, and Ying''s mysterious subordinate, Guiguzi, whose true face had never been revealed. Had they been watching him the entire time?


    Confucius found nothing out of the ordinary and refocused on Jieyin.


    "Please leave, both of you," Jieyin said calmly.


    Confucius and Mitian exchanged a nce. They both understood that there was nothing to gain today. If they were to go all out, they might be able to kill Jieyin, Zhunti, and Kong Xuan, but they would certainly have to pay a heavy price. Moreover, there were still powerful Ancestral Immortals within Chongtian Hall. Taking such a risk today was not worth it.


    Sage Mitian, seemingly somewhat intimidated by Jieyin, took onest look at him before his figure blurred and shot skyward, disappearing from Xianyang.


    Confucius, unable to hold the line alone, had no choice but to retreat as well, transforming into a beam of white light that soared into the heavens.


    "Ooooooooooooooooooooooo!"


    The citizens of Xianyang Holy City erupted into thunderous cheers. The Sages had been driven away! Driven away from Xianyang��two Sages, no less!


    The guests in the za of Chongtian Hall were equally ted. They wouldn''t die today��they were safe!


    Inside Chongtian Hall, joy spread rapidly. Tathagata smiled, and Lan''s smile reappeared as well.


    Sun Shen, in particr, was ecstatic. His master was Zhunti, which meant his own status had risen dramatically. His confidence swelled, and some thoughts that had been buried deep in his heart began to surface.


    He cast a provocative nce at Zhong Shan.


    So what if you''re Zhong Shan? Just a grassroots emperor! What if Ying favors you? My master is Zhunti! There will be a day when I crush you.


    As Sun Shen was harboring these malicious thoughts, Kong Xuan, Zhunti, and Jieyin flew over.


    It was clear that Jieyin was the strongest of the three. As they approached, everyone naturally showed them the utmost respect.


    "Zhong Shan, so you are here after all!" Jieyin suddenly eximed with a hint of joy.


    His earlierposure shifted as if he had returned to his youthful self, his eyes lighting up at the sight of Zhong Shan.


    This scene left everyone stunned. Almost simultaneously, they began specting about Zhong Shan''s identity once more. This was too outrageous��what kind of attitude was that from Jieyin? The attitude of an old friend?


    Sun Shen, who had just been hatching venomous ns against Zhong Shan, suddenly heard Jieyin''s greeting and his face froze. It felt as though his heart was about to copse.


    Sun Shen thought to himself, <i>"What the @%...! This can''t be happening!"</i>


    Sun Shen''s face nearly fell apart. This Zhong Shan was too strange��how had he befriended so many powerful figures?


    "You are...?" Zhong Shan looked at Jieyin with a hint of uncertainty.


    "It''s me!" Jieyin said with a yful smile, even winking to give a hint.


    Could it really be Su Afo? Zhong Shan was filled with shock. Was it really Su Afo? How had he be Jieyin? This was too outrageous��transforming like that!


    "You... you''re still alive!" Zhong Shan said with deep emotion.


    "Of course I''m still alive. You have no idea what I''m up to now... Hehe, you know what I mean!" Su Afo replied with a trace of excitement.


    Seeing the look on Su Afo''s face, Zhong Shan knew exactly what he meant. Su Afo had two great ambitions in life: the first, to be a mboyant man; the second, to win over the Saintess of a Daoist sect.


    Now that Ying had be Jieyin, wasn''t this just a natural progression of events?


    Zhong Shan couldn''t help but feel a bit embarrassed as he recalled the previous image of Jieyin, sitting in meditation, discussing how to flirt with saintesses. It was hard to reconcile this with the current situation.


    "Uh-huh," Zhong Shan nodded awkwardly.


    Sun Shen, observing the interaction between the two, felt a deep sense of despair. It seemed that his grudge would never be avenged!


    Just then, a sudden roar echoed through the air.


    "Rooaaarrrrr~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The Golden Dragon of Great Qin''s fortune bellowed, its cry piercing the skies.


    The roar pulled everyone out of their momentary joy, drawing their attention to Ying, who was seated on the Nine Dragons Heavenly Throne.


    Ying''s face was slightly pale, as if he had expended a great deal of energy. Meanwhile, Guiguzi stepped forward, his hand reaching into the air. Instantly, Xianyang Holy City was bathed in a radiant glow of thirteen colors.


    The brilliant light swirled for a moment before condensing into an object resembling a mirror, which then fell into Guiguzi''s hand.


    Without making a show of it, Guiguzi swiftly concealed the temporal treasure within his sleeve.


    Ying slowly rose to his feet.


    "Zhunti, Lan, Zhong Shan, Tathagata, Jieyin, Kong Xuan, and Guiguzi, follow me into Chongtian Hall," Ying said with a deep breath.


    Everyone nodded, clearly understanding that Ying had something important to discuss.


    The other guests were left to the care of Li Si and others.


    Inside Chongtian Hall, there was no one else present. The group followed Ying into the grand hall. Ying did not ascend the dragon throne but instead turned to face the group.


    "Bang!" The doors of the hall mmed shut.


    Curious onlookers like Sun Shen and Hao Meili were leftpletely in the dark about what was happening inside.


    "Thank you all for your help in this battle!" Ying began, expressing his gratitude.


    Given that Ying hadn''t personally intervened throughout the entire ordeal, merely observing, his thanks were genuine and heartfelt.


    "You''ve been sitting there all this time��did you achieve anything?" Lan asked, clearly curious about Ying''s motives. It seemed even Lan was unaware of Ying''s true intentions, though Jieyin and Zhunti appeared to have some suspicions. The group turned their attention to Ying.


    Ying nced at Guiguzi, who nodded in affirmation, giving Ying a signal of confidence.


    With a slight smile, Ying said, "You must all be wondering why I remained seated and unmoving earlier."


    The group remained silent, listening intently.


    "Just now, with the help of this temporal treasure that protects Xianyang, I, along with Mr. Guiguzi, have been searching for a w in Confucius!" Ying stated solemnly.


    "A w in Confucius?" Tathagata asked gravely.


    "Indeed. Given that you all defended Xianyang, it would be dishonorable of me to withhold this information. Yes, we were looking for a w in Confucius��a Sage''s w. And just moments ago, I finally found it!" Ying''s voice was filled with pride, exuding an air of overwhelming confidence.


    The group nodded in understanding, not pressing the matter further, as it was clear what Ying intended to do.


    Even Zhong Shan was struck by a wave of realization. What was Ying nning? Finding a w in Confucius��what could that mean? It wasn''t hard to guess.


    He intended to y a Sage!


    What audacity! Great Qin had truly reached such heights of power!


    Zhong Shan, who was adept at analysis and reflection, saw in Great Qin the potential future of his own empire, Da Ling. Da Ling still had much to develop, and it needed to grow quickly.


    With the rebirth of the Sages, the resurgence of Great Zhou, and the rise of the Divine Emperor, and now with Ying aiming to y a Sage, the world was about to descend into chaos!


    Rapid development was crucial; otherwise, they would risk bing mere dust in the annals of history.


    "I hope you all will join me in this endeavor," Ying said, looking at everyone present.


    The group exchanged nces. While they were impressed by the boldness of the n, joining it was another matter entirely. At this moment, Zhong Shan, at least, was reluctant to participate. Although the n was grand and ambitious, the risks involved were enormous.


    If the attempt to y a Sage failed, Zhong Shan would be relentlessly hunted by Confucius, and Da Ling would face total destruction.


    Even if the n seeded, Da Ling would then attract the suspicion and hostility of the other eight Sages in the mortal world. Given Da Ling''s current state, it was not yet equipped to handle such a formidable challenge.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1033: Resilient Fate

    <h4>Chapter 1033: Resilient Fate</h4>


    "I hope you all will join me in this endeavor," Ying said, looking at everyone present.


    The idea of ying a Sage was enough to stir one''s blood, but actually carrying it out required careful consideration of many factors. At the very least, Zhong Shan hesitated. While the prospect was grand, one needed the capability to bear such glory. Did the Da Ling Holy Court possess that capability at this moment?


    However, since Ying had brought it up, especially within Chongtian Hall, it was difficult to refuse.


    The group fell into a brief silence; no one spoke. Each person likely had different thoughts, but they all had deeper foundations than Zhong Shan.


    "I understand your concerns," Jieyin suddenly spoke up, breaking the silence.


    "Hmm?" Everyone turned to look at Jieyin.


    "Let Tathagata stay and discuss the matter. Once a decision is reached, he can inform me. Zhong Shan and I have not seen each other for many years, and we have some personal matters to discuss. We will wait at the Great Leiyin Temple," Jieyin suggested.


    Ying nced at Jieyin, then at Zhong Shan. Finally, he smiled lightly and nodded, "Very well."


    With that single word, Zhong Shan was temporarily taken out of the equation. As for what decision Zhong Shan would make after the discussions, that was a matter forter.


    Zhong Shan nodded to Ying and the others.


    As he and Jieyin walked toward the door, it swung open with a thunderous sound.


    The two exited, and the door closed once more behind them, leaving Ying, Guiguzi, Lan, Zhunti, and Tathagata to continue their discussion of the grand n to y a Sage.


    "Zhong Shan, are you alright? What did you talk about just now?" Hao Meili immediately rushed over, concerned.


    "We''re leaving Xianyang for now," Zhong Shan replied.


    After a brief farewell to Li Si and L�� Buwei, Zhong Shan, Hao Meili, and the others who hade with Zhong Shan were whisked away by Jieyin with a simple wave of his hand, disappearing from the za of Chongtian Hall.


    Sun Shen, who had been standing on the sidelines, could only bury his resentment deep within his heart once again.


    As Zhong Shan''s group departed, L�� Buwei and Li Si exchanged nces.


    "Zhong Shan has left. I wonder if he will return," Li Si sighed softly.


    "Zhong Shan has already helped Great Qin immensely. Whether he returns or not, Great Qin owes him a great debt��a monumental one," L�� Buwei remarked with a hint of admiration.


    Had Sun Shen overheard this, he would have been even more conflicted. What had Zhong Shan done to warrant such gratitude from Great Qin? Shouldn''t the gratitude be directed toward Zhunti? What did this have to do with Great Qin?


    Flying through the sky, Zhong Shan quietly breathed a sigh of relief. The battle among the strongest was still far beyond his reach. He needed to grow stronger quickly, and so did Da Ling.


    "Thank you for your help earlier," Zhong Shan said to Jieyin.


    "Why are you thanking me? Ying was really out of line, trying to drag you into this mess! It''s one thing if he drags me in, but you''re only at the Eighth Heaven of the Grand Celestial Stage. That''s just too much. I couldn''t stand by and watch that nonsense!" Jieyin said, clearly annoyed.


    "Uh?" Zhong Shan was a bit taken aback.


    Was this really the same calm and collected Jieyin from earlier?


    "Are you Su Afo, or are you Jieyin?" Zhong Shan asked, still unsure.


    Jieyin''s personality shift was just too strange.


    Jieyin looked at Zhong Shan, then suddenly threw an arm around his shoulders, saying, "Ah, you figured it out! Your sharp eyes haven''t dulled one bit!"


    Zhong Shan: "..."


    With such a dramatic personality shift, who wouldn''t notice?


    "I''m Su Afo, and I''m also Jieyin. Jieyin is my past life, and in this life, I''m Su Afo. But both personalities coexist; sometimes even I can''t tell if I''m Jieyin or Su Afo. But it works out well because I''m still the same person. The two sets of memories don''t conflict. I can use Jieyin''s power and influence while living Su Afo''s life. In one word��bliss!" Jieyin, or Su Afo, said with a carefree grin.


    Zhong Shan: "...!"


    "However, calling me ''Jieyin'' does sound a bit more impressive, so just keep calling me ''Jieyin''," Jieyin said with a grin.


    "Alright," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "You mentioned earlier that Ying was trying to drag me into something again?" Zhong Shan asked, looking at Jieyin.


    "Of course, who wouldn''t want to��" Jieyin began, but then cut himself off.


    After ncing at the others, Jieyin added, "Let''s talk more in detail when we''re at the Great Leiyin Temple, where we can speak privately."


    Zhong Shan initially considered saying that it wouldn''t matter if the others heard, but then thought better of it. After all, Jieyin was a different kind of friend, and there might be some things he wanted to discuss away from others.


    The Great Leiyin Temple was located in Xiniu Hezhou. The surroundings were suffused with an aura of sacred Buddhist energy, and Ling Mountain was the heart of the temple, surrounded by numerous Buddhist kingdoms that were vassal states under the Great Leiyin Temple.


    As they approached Ling Mountain, waves of merit rolled through the sky like tides, casting their light across the entire heavens.


    When Jieyin led Zhong Shan and his group to Ling Mountain, many Buddhas took notice, but none dared to interfere.


    Who was Jieyin?


    At the Great Leiyin Temple, while the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas held Tathagata Buddha in the highest regard, their most devout reverence was reserved for this Amitabha Buddha!


    On a mountainside, two figures��Randeng and Maitreya��stood together. Seeing the group approaching from afar, they exchanged a nce before flying over.


    "Greetings to Buddha Jieyin!" The two bowed respectfully to Jieyin, then curiously looked over at Zhong Shan and his entourage.


    Nearby, another figure d in golden armor approached.


    It was Hong Xiao, a former general of the Tai Chu Holy Court!


    "Buddha!" Hong Xiao greeted Jieyin respectfully, then looked at Zhong Shan with equal curiosity.


    "These are my esteemed guests, Hong Xiao. Please ensure they are well taken care of. Zhong Shan and I have not seen each other in many years, so we''ll catch up in the Hall of Reception. See to it that theyck nothing," Jieyin instructed.


    "Yes!" Hong Xiao nodded.


    Randeng and Maitreya exchanged curious looks. Why was Zhong Shan always given such a grand reception wherever he went? Not long ago in the underworld, he was well-received by Ksitigarbha, and now here, Jieyin treated him like an old friend?


    "You all go explore Ling Mountain for a bit. I''ll join youter," Zhong Shan told his subordinates.


    "Understood!" Nangong Sheng and the others responded promptly.


    Though Hao Meili seemed slightly displeased, she nodded in agreement.


    Zhong Shan and Jieyin entered arge hall, and the doors closed with a thunderous boom.


    Inside, there were several lotus tforms for sitting, as well as a small lotus pond with exquisite, vibrant lotus flowers blooming within it, adding to the hall''s serene beauty.


    Jieyin invited Zhong Shan to sit on one of the lotus tforms. He then brought out a set of tea utensils and poured some tea for Zhong Shan.


    As Zhong Shan took a sip, he felt an indescribablefort wash over him, as though every pore in his body had opened to breathe. While this level of quality was not entirely absent in Da Ling, it was extremely rare��perhaps only one or two ounces could be produced in a century.


    "Excellent tea!" Zhong Shan immediately remarked.


    "If you like it, I''ll pack a few pounds for you to take with you!" Jieyin responded, sounding like a generous tycoon.


    Zhong Shan: "...!"


    "By the way, earlier you mentioned something about Ying trying to drag me into something��what did you mean by that?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "Of course. Why do you think you were invited to Xianyang this time? It was to pull you into the fray. Haven''t you noticed who those guests actually are?" Jieyin replied quickly.


    "Oh? Please, borate," Zhong Shan said, his tone grave.


    "Let''s put it this way: Why does Ying value you so highly? Your abilities are one reason, and your character is another. But there are plenty of capable rulers like you, so why does he focus so much on you in particr?" Jieyin exined.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan asked, genuinely puzzled.


    "Because you''re ''resilient,''" Jieyin said.


    "Resilient?" Zhong Shan didn''t quite understand.


    "Yes, your fate is incredibly resilient. This might be the primary reason Ying values you so much. Your innate constitution is not just good; it''s exceptionally broad and solid, all because of your resilient fate," Jieyin exined further.


    "Resilient fate? How is that beneficial?" Zhong Shan asked, curious about the implications.


    Jieyin imed that resilient fate was an advantage, but Zhong Shan couldn''t see how this tranted to his physical constitution being particrly outstanding.


    "I''ve done some digging into your past. In your small world, there was an incident involving a Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, correct?" Jieyin asked.


    "Yes. People said I became its ''doom,'' leading to its copse. But I know that my role in that was minimal," Zhong Shan replied, shaking his head.


    "No, you yed a significant role. ''Doom'' is one way of putting it, but there''s another interpretation: your resilient fate actually caused the demise of the Pure Land," Jieyin said.


    "My resilient fate caused its demise?" Zhong Shan found the idea peculiar.


    "Exactly. Many people who have fallen by your hand may have done so because your resilient fate overcame theirs. Think back��does this ring true in any way?" Jieyin asked with a smile.


    Jieyin''s words seemed cryptic, but Zhong Shan couldn''t help but reflect deeply.


    Suddenly, Zhong Shan remembered something that Mr. Corpse had said when he was recruiting him.


    "If you want me to join Da Ling and serve under you, first you need to have a resilient fate. Without a resilient fate, how can you dominate the world?"


    That was what Mr. Corpse had said before submitting to Zhong Shan. Even he had mentioned the importance of resilient fate.


    "This resilient fate of yours is your advantage. At Ying''s grand celebration, the invited guests were all people with resilient fates. Among them, you, Tathagata, Lan, and Zhunti have the most resilient fates. Adding Ying''s incredibly resilient fate into the mix, even if your groupcks strength, as long as you stick together, no one can harm you. Yourbined fates are just too resilient," Jieyin said, his tone full of admiration.


    "Fate has such power?" Zhong Shan mused, astonished.


    "Yes, that''s why ''fate'' is ranked first in the saying, ''Fate first, fortune second, feng shui third, virtue fourth, and fame fifth.'' A resilient fate allows one to counteract others, offering advantages that no one else can attain. Take Ying, for instance��he cultivates the body of a Jiangshi, which is not something an ordinary person could achieve. And to reach his level, only someone with a fate as resilient as Pangu''s could do so," Jieyin said, marveling.


    "Pangu?" Zhong Shan''s expression grew serious.


    Who was Pangu? In Zhong Shan''s youth, Pangu was a figure from myth, the strongest being ever, even greater than the Sages. But hearing Jieyin mention Pangu again today piqued Zhong Shan''s curiosity.


    "Pangu? He might be the most dominant person I''ve ever encountered. Though he has fallen, his grandeur will never be forgotten. Back when the Seven Sages defied the heavens, we were all, to some extent, influenced by him," Jieyin reminisced.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1034: The Location of Earth

    <h4>Chapter 1034: The Location of Earth</h4>


    "Pangu? He might be the most powerful being I''ve ever encountered. Although he has perished, his grandeur will never be forgotten. Back when the Seven Sages defied the heavens, we were all, to some extent, influenced by him," Jieyin reminisced.


    "Pangu was very powerful?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Powerful? By today''s standards, perhaps not as overwhelmingly so, but in that era, he was a figure that all of us looked up to," Jieyin said with solemnity.


    "Please, tell me more," Zhong Shan requested.


    "You may already know this: I, Zhunti, Hongjun, Nuwa, Taishang, Tongtian, Yuan Shi, and the early-deceased Fuxi��all of us came from a small world! The primordial chaos surrounding that small world had an incredibly thick barrier. For countless years, no one could break through it. Then Pangu emerged, bing the first among us. He was the one who shattered the barrier of primordial chaos," Jieyin exined.


    "Pangu created the heavens and the earth��was it just a small world he created?" Zhong Shan asked, slightly frowning.


    "Indeed. It was simr to your act of opening the heavens, but with one crucial difference," Jieyin remarked thoughtfully.


    "Oh?"


    "Pangu didn''t establish a dynasty; he created the world with his own power alone. You, on the other hand, leveraged the power of the world. Pangu did it all by himself," Jieyin sighed.


    Zhong Shan''s expression flickered with contemtion.


    "Can someone from a small world be that powerful? Can a mortal attain strength beyond that of ancient immortals?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "Isn''t Ying an example of that?" Jieyin replied with a smile.


    Zhong Shan fell silent. Indeed, Pangu''s strength was astounding��he created a world without relying on the momentum of the universe, purely through his own power.


    "Back then, not many witnessed the event, but those who did were among the top beings of that small world. The Seven Sages, Fuxi, Kong Xuan, and others all observed Pangu''s creation ceremony," Jieyin recalled.


    "And then what happened?"


    "Unfortunately, the damage Pangu sustained from creating the world was too severe. In the end, after creating the heavens and the earth, he perished. It''s a great pity; had he lived, Pangu''s power would have undoubtedly caused great upheaval in the Great Thousand World," Jieyin said with regret.


    "After Pangu created the heavens and the earth, where did that small world end up?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "These Four Great Continents are part of it," Jieyin replied.


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was slightly taken aback.


    The Four Great Continents are only a part? Considering that the small world he created only upies one-fifth of Fengzhong''s territory, and the Four Great Continents are not smaller than Fengzhong''s territory, howrge was the small world that Pangu created?


    "Only a part? Why just a part?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "The other part, even I don''t know where it is now," Jieyin said.


    "What do you mean?"


    "This requires an exnation starting from when we defied the heavenly mandate. Do you know why we defied the heavens?" Jieyin said with a bitter smile.


    "Why?" Zhong Shan asked, intrigued.


    "You see, the Great Thousand World isposed of three thousand Daos. These three thousand Daos form all things in existence."


    "Yes," Zhong Shan acknowledged, listening intently.


    "However, there is more to the story," Jieyin continued, "The three thousand Daos are not just the foundation of the Great Thousand World��they are also interconnected with the fundamentalws that govern every world. When we, the Seven Sages, sought to defy the heavens, we aimed to break free from the constraints of these Daos. Pangu, with his unparalleled strength, had already begun this process by breaking the chaos barrier and creating a new world. But his actions also fragmented the original small world, scattering parts of it across the cosmos."


    Zhong Shan''s thoughts raced as he tried to grasp the implications of Jieyin''s words. The idea that a portion of Pangu''s world was still missing, and perhaps lost within the Great Thousand World or beyond, suggested a mystery with profound significance.


    "So, this missing part of the world... could it still exist somewhere?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "It could, but finding it would be like searching for a needle in a cosmic haystack. However, the potential power and secrets it holds could be beyond imagination," Jieyin replied, his tone hinting at the enormity of the unknown.


    Zhong Shan pondered this new information, realizing that the Great Thousand World and the history of its creation were far moreplex and intertwined with cosmic forces than he had ever imagined.


    "But the three thousand Daos have no consciousness; they are merely phenomena. Otherwise, how could Ancestral Immortals manipte the Daos? How could they manipte the fundamental forces of the world?" Zhong Shan nodded, prompting Jieyin to continue.


    "And the concept of ''heavenly mandate'' (����), it''s said to be a product of the Daos, but it''s a unique entity with intelligence," Jieyin exined.


    "How so?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Heaven and Earth are not benevolent; they treat all things as straw dogs. This ''Heaven and Earth are not benevolent'' refers to the heavenly mandate. The heavenly mandate is an intelligent force, acting like a grand mechanism that governs the development and order of the world," Jieyin said.


    "Fate?" Zhong Shan spected.


    "Precisely. You could say it controls the destiny of all things in the world. This is the heavenly mandate. Once the heavenly mandate is set, no one can defy it. In other words, the general direction of the future is already fixed. Anyone who dares to go against it will face annihtion," Jieyin exined.


    Zhong Shan''s heart raced at the thought.


    "Do you know what being a Sage really means?" Jieyin asked.


    "Uh?"


    "A Sage is a kind of cosmic office, also known as a ''habitual position'' (ϰ��λ), the most supreme position in the universe. This Sage position is jointly endorsed by both the Daos and the heavenly mandate. The Daos have no consciousness��they are merely phenomena��but the heavenly mandate is intelligent. While Sages are seen as the most powerful beings in the eyes of the world, only they know that above them, there is still the heavenly mandate," Jieyin sighed.


    "The heavenly mandate restricts Sages?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "Restricts? It does much more than that!" Jieyin said with a bitter smile.


    "How so?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Not being a Sage has its advantages. Take you, for example��you still have the unknown ahead of you. Some say the unknown is frightening, but to a Sage, the unknown is the most desired thing."


    "A Sage has no unknowns because the future has already been arranged by the heavenly mandate. Whatever the heavenly mandate wants a Sage to do, the Sage must do. For example, if the heavenly mandate decrees that someone must die, but the Sage wishes to save them, the heavenly mandate will prevail. The Sage will have no choice but to watch that person die, powerless to change it. That is the power of the heavenly mandate."


    "While Sages enjoy the respect of the world, who knows that they are merely following the heavenly mandate? The heavenly mandate is fixed, and while a Sage may see the future, they cannot change it. This might not seem like a big deal at first, but after tens of thousands of years, what then? A grand Sage, reduced to a puppet, carrying out preordained instructions. Emotionless and detached��that''s the reality of being a Sage," Jieyinmented.


    "Sages are emotionless, but it''s because they have no choice!" Zhong Shan said, feeling a pang of sympathy.


    "Exactly. It''s a case of being forced into it. But that''s the reality: in the face of the heavenly mandate, even Sages gradually lose their emotions and be like ves. Who would want to be such a Sage? Of course, everyone has their own path��take Sage Mitian, for example, who seems quite content with his position. But the seven of us couldn''t stand it, which is why we chose to defy the heavenly mandate!" Jieyin exined earnestly.


    "The heavenly mandate? Does that mean everyone''s future is predestined?" Zhong Shan asked, his brow furrowed.


    "It''s not that extreme. If that were the case, what use would Sages be? The heavenly mandate only concerns itself with the grand development of the world. For instance, in a war between two nations, Nation A is strong, and Nation B is weak. But under the heavenly mandate, Nation B is destined to win. The heavenly mandate doesn''t concern itself with every individual detail, but the overall oue is unchangeable. Heroes from Nation A may fall, while powerful heroes will rise in Nation B to turn the tide," Jieyin exined after some thought.


    "So the heavenly mandate cares only about the result, not the process?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "Exactly. It only cares about the result. The process? With Sages to manage things, there shouldn''t be any issues. As long as the main oue is determined, the heavenly mandate doesn''t bother with the minor details. And you haven''t been targeted by the heavenly mandate because, frankly, you''re still far from being on its radar," Jieyin said, shaking his head.


    "Yes, in the face of the heavenly mandate, I am just an ant. Why would the heavenly mandate pay any attention to me?" Zhong Shan said with a bitter smile.


    "And as for Nuwa''s sessful alteration of the heavenly mandate to save the fox n, that was only possible because she didn''t interfere with the main trajectory of the heavenly mandate. The main course of fate is untouchable. Back when Hongjun led us in defying the heavenly mandate, we tried to alter that main trajectory, which led to the fall of many Sages," Jieyin exined after some thought.


    Zhong Shan remained silent for a moment, pondering before asking, "So what about that other part of the small world that Pangu created? What happened to it?"


    "The other part is where Hongjun''s residence, the Purple Heaven Pce (������), is located," Jieyin replied after thinking for a moment.


    "Purple Heaven Pce?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Yes, the area around the Purple Heaven Pce was vast. When the Seven Sages failed in defying the heavenly mandate, Hongjun sealed the surrounding area of the Purple Heaven Pce,pressing it. He then cast it deep into the starry sky," Jieyin exined.


    "Compressed? What do you mean by that?" Zhong Shan asked, his tone serious.


    "Hongjun Daozu mastered the art of time, among other techniques that I might not even be aware of. At that time, he effortlesslypressed the area around the Purple Heaven Pce into a spherical object, resembling a small star system," Jieyin exined.


    "A small star system?" Zhong Shan''s expression grew more curious.


    "Yes, the center was a small sun, and around it orbited nine majors. This was the result ofpressing the Purple Heaven Pce and everything around it," Jieyin continued.


    "A sun? Nines?" Zhong Shan''s curiosity deepened, as this sounded increasingly familiar.


    "Yes, and the third from the sun��that''s where the Purple Heaven Pce is located. It''s also the only where Hongjun left life intact," Jieyin said.


    "The third? A life-bearing?" Zhong Shan felt as though he was getting closer to an answer.


    The ce Jieyin described sounded eerily simr to Earth. Could it be that the Purple Heaven Pce was actually Earth?


    "How did the Purple Heaven Pce be a?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "This technique isn''t too difficult to understand. You''ll grasp it once you reach a certain level of understanding. After transforming the pce into a, Hongjun also shaped some of the Great Thousand World''s mountain formations on it. You''ll find Mount Tai, Mount Hua, the Yellow River, and other geographical features there. However, the people on that are all mortals��there isn''t a single cultivator," Jieyin said, shaking his head.


    "All mortals? If the was originally the Purple Heaven Pce, wouldn''t the world be rich in spiritual energy? Even mortals could eventually cultivate," Zhong Shan remarked.


    "The spiritual energy on that is indeed abundant��so abundant that it''s too dense for mortals to absorb. It''s so dense that it''s almost solidified. How could a mortal absorb something so dense? It would take decades of relentless effort just to absorb a tiny bit, but that wouldn''t be enough to make a significant impact. Their lifespan would run out before they could make any progress. Of course, if mortals can''t absorb it, neither can the nts," Jieyin sighed.


    "And when did this happen?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "A long time ago��several hundred thousand years, perhaps. It was around the time when the Seven Sages fell, and the Hundred Schools of Thought emerged. During that period, the Four Great Continents referred to it as the ''Spring and Autumn'' era," Jieyin recalled.


    "The Spring and Autumn period?" Zhong Shan felt a mix of emotions.


    If that''s the case, then Earth is actually thepressed form of the Purple Heaven Pce, and the history before the Spring and Autumn period was the history of the Great Thousand World. After the Spring and Autumn period, Earth''s history continued to evolve on its own.


    But wait, there was also a Qin dynasty during Earth''s history, wasn''t there?


    "Oh, and by the way, that world sealed by Hongjun has very peculiar timews. The flow of time there is incredibly slow. While hundreds of thousands of years might have passed outside, only a few thousand years might have passed inside," Jieyin added.


    "Where is that world now?" Zhong Shan asked curiously.


    "No one knows. All we know is that Hongjun cast it into the starry sky, and it''s never been found since. Rumor has it that Hongjun sealed a great deal of his power within it as well. Even Sages have been searching for it, but no one has ever found it," Jieyin replied, shaking his head.


    Zhong Shan, however, had his own thoughts. He was convinced that Ying had found it before, as the Qin dynasty during the Warring States period must have been influenced by Ying through some dream connection to the heavenly mechanism.


    The realization that Earth was once the Purple Heaven Pce and that the Purple Heaven Pce was now Earth left Zhong Shan feeling unexpectedly shaken.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1035: Who is the Divine Emperor?

    <h4>Chapter 1035: Who is the Divine Emperor?</h4>


    "Back when the heavenly mandate was defied, I''ve heard there was also King Zhou You of the Zhou dynasty?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "That''s right. The Great Zhou Heavenly Court, ruled by King Zhou You, was indeed led by an extraordinary figure. He ughtered Sages in the underworld, established a heavenly court in the yang realm, and joined us in defying the heavenly mandate. Everything was progressing smoothly, but unfortunately, something went wrong at thest moment," Jieyin said with a sigh.


    "What went wrong?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "I''m not entirely sure, but it seems there was a disagreement between Hongjun and King Zhou You. This was likely the primary reason for the failure in defying the heavenly mandate. After that, Hongjun established another heavenly court in the Four Great Continents, with Haotian as its ruler. This is the heavenly court you saw recently," Jieyin exined.


    "This heavenly court was left by Hongjun. What purpose does it serve?" Zhong Shan inquired.


    "I don''t know. Hongjun''s actions are always meticulously nned, leaving no trace behind. Even we Sages don''t fully understand his motives. In fact, I suspect that the failure to defy the heavenly mandate might have been intentional on Hongjun''s part," Jieyin said with a hint of doubt in his voice.


    "Intentional?" Zhong Shan''s brows furrowed.


    If it was merely a failure, it could be understandable. But why would Hongjun intentionally cause it to fail after having alreadymitted to defying the heavenly mandate? What was Hongjun truly thinking?


    "This is just my spection," Jieyin shook his head, indicating that he wasn''t privy to the deepest secrets.


    "Hmm, regardless, what you attempted was a monumental achievement��defying the heavenly mandate. It might not be something that will ever be surpassed, but at the very least, it''s unprecedented, and the world will remember it," Zhong Shan nodded in acknowledgment.


    "No, you''re mistaken," Jieyin suddenly shook his head.


    "Oh? How so?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "We weren''t the first to defy the heavenly mandate," Jieyin said with a wry smile.


    "You weren''t the first? There were others?" Zhong Shan asked, astonished.


    "Yes, there were others. As I mentioned before, the Seven Sages and I came from the small world created by Pangu. But in truth, the Great Thousand World existed long before Pangu created that small world. There had already been several attempts to defy the heavenly mandate. Even after Pangu created the world, there were others who tried to defy the heavenly mandate, but they too ultimately failed," Jieyin exined.


    "Even after Pangu created the world, others tried to defy the heavenly mandate?"


    "Have you heard of Taiyi and Dijun?" Jieyin asked, his tone serious.


    Zhong Shan thought for a moment before replying, "Not long ago in Xianyang Holy City, I heard Kong Xuan mention them. He said he owed a debt of gratitude to Dijun and protected Dijun''s descendants, specifically the Shang dynasty''s King Zhou. Emperor Xin was thest descendant of Dijun, wasn''t he?"


    "You''re correct. King Zhou was indeed a descendant of Dijun. Back in the day, Dijun was the ruler of the true heavenly court, unlike the current one led by Haotian. At hismand, the myriad demons of the world bowed down. His dominance was unmatched, even more so than King Zhou You," Jieyin recalled.


    "The myriad demons of the world bowed down?"


    "Yes. You know about the Supreme Saint King and the Nine-Tailed Princess, don''t you?" Jieyin suddenly asked with a smile.


    "Yes," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "They are actually the same person. The Nine-Tailed Princess is her fox form, while the Supreme Saint King is her human form. This is a supreme technique of the demon race known as ''dividing the spirit,'' which allows one to split into human and beast forms. You know that a beast can''t establish a dynasty, but once divided into a human form, it bes possible," Jieyin exined seriously.


    "Are you saying that Taiyi and Dijun are the same?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Exactly. Taiyi was a powerful three-legged golden crow. Unfortunately, he couldn''t establish a dynasty in his beast form, but he had the ability to divide his spirit, creating Dijun. Although their personalities differed slightly, they were ultimately the same person. Using his immense strength and determination, he established a vast heavenly court. Dijun became the Heavenly Emperor, while Taiyi was known as the Eastern Emperor," Jieyin said.


    "Eastern Emperor Taiyi?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "Yes, Eastern Emperor Taiyi was the name used by Taiyi after he divided his spirit. He was a figure of immense power and ambition, ruling alongside his other self, Dijun, to lead the demon race in defying the heavenly mandate. Unfortunately, their efforts also ended in failure. Despite their strength and the loyalty of the demon race, they could not escape the grasp of the heavenly mandate," Jieyin exined.


    Zhong Shan remained silent, absorbing the weight of what Jieyin had just revealed. The history of the Great Thousand World was far moreplex and filled with struggles against cosmic forces than he had ever imagined. Even the mightiest beings, such as Taiyi and Dijun, had ultimately fallen in their attempts to challenge the heavenly mandate, a reminder of the relentless power that governed the universe.


    As Zhong Shan pondered these revtions, a new question formed in his mind. "So, who exactly is the Divine Emperor (���) that we keep hearing about? How does he fit into this grand tapestry of power and fate?"


    Jieyin''s expression grew more serious. "The Divine Emperor is a mysterious figure, one who may have found a way to manipte or even coexist with the heavenly mandate. He is neither bound by the fate of a Sage nor entirely free from the influence of the heavenly mandate. His identity and true intentions remain shrouded in mystery, even to us."


    Zhong Shan''s curiosity deepened, realizing that the true nature of the Divine Emperor could be the key to understanding the ongoing cosmic struggle. The pieces of the puzzle were slowlying together, but the picture they formed was still far from clear.


    "Of course, there are no such titles as Western Emperor, Southern Emperor, or Northern Emperor. The Eastern Emperor is the only one, and he holds the supreme title. In feng shui, the ''East'' is also called the ''Divine Direction.'' The Eastern Emperor is also known as the Divine Emperor (���)," Jieyin exined, assuming Zhong Shan might not fully understand.


    But how could Zhong Shan not understand? With the guidance of the Mud Buddha, a feng shui master, even if his exposure to feng shui wasn''t deep, he grasped these basic concepts well.


    (In feng shui, unless referring specifically to directions, ''Divine Direction'' usually means ''East.'' This isn''t a fabrication��it''s based on research conducted before writing. The Eastern Emperor, by definition, is the Divine Emperor!)


    "The Divine Emperor?" Zhong Shan''s heart grew heavier with this realization.


    "Did Taiyi and Dijun both perish after defying the heavenly mandate?" Zhong Shan asked seriously.


    "They should have perished. Dijun, in particr, was utterly annihted, both body and soul," Jieyin said after a moment of thought.


    "Understood," Zhong Shan nodded, deciding not to pursue the matter further.


    At the Great Leiyin Temple, while Zhong Shan and Jieyin discussed the state of the world, Hao Meili and the others were being shown around the temple by Hong Xiao, Randeng, and Maitreya. Randeng and Maitreya stayed behind, hoping to learn more about Zhong Shan, who had left such an enigmatic impression on everyone. How could someone be treated as an honored guest wherever they went?


    "This is the Hall of the Eight Heavenly Dragons! Unfortunately, the Eight Heavenly Dragons aren''t on Ling Mountain at the moment," Hong Xiao exined.


    The group nodded as they observed the surroundings.


    "Over there, what''s that hall? Didn''t you say that no one but the Buddha is allowed to build halls on that mountain?" Hao Meili pointed to a secluded pce on Ling Mountain, curiosity piqued.


    Without waiting for an answer, Hao Meili took off into the air, with the others quickly following. Maitreya tried to call them back, but it was toote. He could only smile wryly in resignation.


    "You can''t enter that hall," Maitreya Buddha warned.


    "Why not?"


    "That hall is the residence of the Golden-Winged Roc (���������). It hasn''t returned to Ling Mountain for a long time," Maitreya exined, shaking his head.


    "The Golden-Winged Roc? Isn''t it a Buddha?" Hao Meili asked, intrigued.


    "The Buddha once bestowed the title of ''First-Rank Buddha'' upon it, but it renounced the title itself. It is not a Buddha, yet its status is equivalent to one. This ce is merely a temporary residence for it. Even I have only met it once, and that meeting was earth-shattering," Maitreya Buddha said, shaking his head again.


    "Oh?" The group looked at Maitreya Buddha with interest.


    Even Randeng and Hong Xiao turned to Maitreya with curiosity, as it seemed no one had ever seen the Golden-Winged Roc.


    "The Golden-Winged Roc, named Jinpeng, wields a weapon known as the Fangtian Halberd. On one asion, for reasons unknown, Jinpeng wreaked havoc on Ling Mountain. In just one move, it shattered the Five Hundred Arhats Formation. No Bodhisattva or Buddha could stop it as it stormed the Mahavira Hall. If not for the intervention of the Buddha, the Great Leiyin Temple would have beenpletely overturned by it," Maitreya Buddha recounted with a sigh.


    Randeng and Hong Xiao''s expressions grew serious, while Hao Meili and the others seemed unimpressed. After all, they had witnessed battles between Sages recently��why would they care about some "broken bird"?


    "Why hasn''t it returned?" Hao Meili asked, still curious.


    "No one knows. It''s rumored that it shares some familial connection with the Buddha, but it refuses to ept any gifts from the Great Leiyin Temple, preferring to wander the world freely. It hasn''t returned in a very long time," Maitreya Buddha said, shaking his head.


    "Then what''s the problem? We just want to take a quick look!" Hao Meili urged.


    "But..." Maitreya Buddha still seemed hesitant.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1036: Ba鈥檈r Is Safe

    <h4>Chapter 1036: Ba''er Is Safe</h4>


    Hao Meili paid no attention to Maitreya Buddha''s warnings.


    Being someone who was never afraid of breaking the rules, why would she let a bald monk stop her from satisfying her curiosity? Especially now that she had someone like Zhong Shan backing her, and considering how close Zhong Shan was with Jieyin, why shouldn''t she take a look inside the hall?


    "Boom!" Hao Meili pushed open the golden doors with ease.


    As the golden doors swung open, a blinding golden light flooded out, momentarily blinding everyone present.


    Once their eyes adjusted, they finally saw what was inside. But the interior was nothing like they had imagined. Wasn''t this ce supposed to be empty?


    In the center of the hall, on an altar, sat a young man cross-legged. The man was d in golden robes, and his appearance was exceedingly handsome and elegant. However, the slight protrusion of his brow revealed a fierce and unyielding character.


    "This is bad!" Maitreya Buddha eximed in shock.


    The others quickly realized what this meant. Could this golden-robed man be the Golden-Winged Roc that Maitreya Buddha had just mentioned? Was this Jinpeng?


    As Jinpeng opened his eyes, two beams of golden light shot out, piercing straight through the air.


    A wave of murderous intent struck at the hearts of everyone present. The sheer terror of his aura was palpable��just the act of opening his eyes was enough to make hearts tremble.


    "Who allowed you to enter? Do you have any idea what this ce is?" Jinpeng said in a deep, menacing voice.


    Jinpeng''s voice was like a de, stabbing into the hearts of the onlookers. Even Maitreya Buddha turned slightly pale.


    This Jinpeng was bing more formidable with each passing day! In the Great Leiyin Temple, he was perhaps only second to the two Buddhas.


    "Well, these guests are esteemed visitors of the Great Leiyin Temple. They thought you were not here, so they��" Maitreya Buddha tried to exin.


    "And because I wasn''t here, you thought you could just barge in?" Jinpeng''s tone grew colder, his fierce gaze sending shivers down Maitreya''s spine.


    Maitreya Buddha felt a chill wash over him. How could Jinpeng possess such overwhelming murderous intent?


    "Are you Jinpeng?" Hao Meili suddenly asked, seemingly unaffected by the oppressive aura.


    While Hao Meili appeared unfazed, the others, such as Mr. Corpse and Luo Xingchen, knew all too well how powerful Jinpeng was. Luo Xingchen quickly stepped forward to stand beside Hao Meili.


    Jinpeng turned his head, his eyes scanning each person in the room. When his gaze fell on the small golden dragon perched on Hao Meili''s shoulder, his eyelid twitched.


    "An origin dragon?" Jinpeng''s eyes gleamed with a sharp, predatory light.


    Maitreya Buddha''s face changed. This was bad!


    "Randeng, hold off Jinpeng! The Golden-Winged Roc is a rare creature that doesn''t eat ordinary food��it only consumes dragons. But Jinpeng''s power has grown so much that ordinary dragons no longer satisfy him, which is why he rarely hunts them. However, this small golden dragon is clearly of noble blood. If Jinpeng devours it, we won''t be able to answer to Amitabha. Hold him off while I contact Amitabha!" Maitreya Buddha quickly transmitted his thoughts to Randeng.


    Randeng, upon hearing this, was equally rmed.


    But Jinpeng was in no mood for reasoning. With a swift movement, he reached out to grab the small golden dragon.


    "Boom!"


    Randeng managed to block Jinpeng''s hand with his treasure, a greenntern, but only just.


    The intense shockwave forced everyone to retreat.


    "Run! He wants to eat the dragon!" Randeng shouted.


    Upon hearing Randeng''s words, the Western Poison Emperor, Mr. Corpse, and Nangong Sheng quickly moved to protect Hao Meili and the small golden dragon, retreating at speed, while Luo Xingchen stood his ground in front of them.


    "Do you really think you can stop me? Even if Tathagata himself were here, it might not be enough!" Jinpeng sneered coldly.


    As Maitreya Buddha hurried off to find Jieyin, Randeng and Luo Xingchen positioned themselves in front of Jinpeng.


    "Jinpeng! These are esteemed guests of the Great Leiyin Temple, honored by Amitabha himself. You cannot act recklessly!" Randeng shouted urgently.


    But Jinpeng paid no heed to Randeng''s words, as his entire focus was locked onto the small golden dragon perched on Hao Meili''s shoulder. An origin dragon, a true origin dragon? If he devoured this dragon, his power would undoubtedly surge to new heights.


    "Hahaha! I''ve searched high and low, and now it''s delivered right to me! Once I consume this origin dragon, I won''t fear that woman anymore!" Jinpeng eximed excitedly.


    He reached out with his hand once more, this time with significantly more power than before. His speed was overwhelming��so fast that Randeng''s greenntern, which had barely blocked the first strike, was nowpletely outpaced by Jinpeng''s enhanced attack.


    "Time Reversal!" Luo Xingchen shouted desperately.


    Jinpeng''s movement faltered slightly, but even with the temporal maniption, he was now less than a meter away from Hao Meili.


    Hao Meili''s heart raced as she quickly retreated with the small golden dragon, barely avoiding Jinpeng''s grasp.


    "You...!" Hao Meili began to curse Jinpeng.


    But Jinpeng was already upon her again, even closer than before.


    "Time Reversal!" Luo Xingchen called out once more, straining to slow down Jinpeng''s advance.


    Luo Xingchen had seen enough to know that the beings in the Four Great Continents were far more terrifying than anything he had encountered in the Wheel Domain. How could anyone be this overwhelmingly powerful?


    "You?" Jinpeng snarled, his patience wearing thin. Furious at having been thwarted twice, he turned his fierce gaze toward Luo Xingchen.


    "Reversal~~~~~~~~~~!" Luo Xingchen dared not hesitate, using his time maniption ability once more.


    But Jinpeng was too formidable. Sensing something was amiss, he immediately merged with the Dao.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A towering golden Dao shot skyward from Ling Mountain, its power overwhelming. Everyone inside felt immobilized by Jinpeng''s ruthless aura, unable to move. Jinpeng''s sheer might was truly terrifying.


    Randeng stared at Jinpeng in shock, while on the other side, Mr. Corpse had already stepped in front of Hao Meili and the small golden dragon, his face cold and clearly ready with some sort of contingency.


    Luo Xingchen, due to his temporal abilities, could still move slightly.


    "Today, I''m going to eat that dragon. Even if Tathagata himselfes, he won''t be able to stop me!" Jinpeng dered fiercely.


    "You dare~~~~~~~~~~~!" A thunderous roar echoed from outside the golden Dao.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    With a tremendous crash, the golden Dao trembled violently, and everyone was suddenly freed from its oppressive grasp. Jinpeng struck out with his palm, meeting another golden hand in mid-air.


    It was Jieyin''s hand.


    When Jieyin''s hand collided with Jinpeng''s, Jinpeng was forced back a hundred meters, staring in shock at Jieyin.


    "That aura... You''re Jieyin? You old bastard, you''re still alive?" Jinpeng eximed, his eyes widening in disbelief.


    Jieyin replied calmly, "Were you hoping I was dead?"


    "Hmph! I don''t care if you''re dead or alive��I''m going to eat that origin dragon, and no one can stop me!" Jinpeng snarled.


    "Ling Mountain is not a ce where you can do as you please. As long as I am here, no one will harm them!" Jieyin dered resolutely.


    The sh between the two had drawn the attention of numerous Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats from all directions. After all, Ling Mountain had been peaceful for countless years��who would dare cause trouble here?


    But the moment they saw Jinpeng, they understood. The fierce one had returned. He actually came back? And now he was facing Amitabha''s counterpart, Jieyin?


    "Are you really determined to oppose me?" Jinpeng''s voice was cold and menacing.


    "These people are my honored guests. If you intend to harm them, I can''t let that happen. Leave now; the Great Leiyin Temple does not wee you anymore," Jieyin replied bluntly.


    Jieyin was effectively expelling Jinpeng from the temple. The assembled Buddhas and Bodhisattvas couldn''t help but marvel��Amitabha truly had formidable authority.


    "Roar!" Jinpeng let out a low, angry growl, clearly displeased and reluctant.


    "You know you can''t defeat me. Out of respect for Tathagata, I''m giving you a chance to leave peacefully. Take it," Jieyin said, his voice firm.


    Though Jinpeng was unwilling, he understood the truth in Jieyin''s words.


    With a fierce re, Jinpeng looked once more at the small golden dragon. His eyes were filled with frustration and reluctance, and he noticed the little girl on whose shoulder the dragon perched, staring back at him with an equally fierce expression. It seemed she was about to hurl insults at him, but the man beside her stopped her just in time.


    Jinpeng''s gaze shifted to the man, and the moment he saw his face, Jinpeng''s expression changed again.


    "It''s you?" Jinpeng eximed.


    Zhong Shan had just stopped Hao Meili from provoking Jinpeng further. Recognizing the formidable Golden-Winged Roc in front of him, Zhong Shan didn''t want Hao Meili to make an enemy of such a powerful figure, especially in the Great Leiyin Temple, where Jinpeng held a high rank and immense strength. It was said that only Tathagata himself could subdue him.


    Zhong Shan had only heard of Jinpeng, yet Jinpeng seemed to recognize him.


    "You know me?" Zhong Shan asked, puzzled.


    "Of course it''s you! I can''t mistake it. You look exactly like the man in the portrait��the one that woman longs for day and night. So it''s you! Hahaha! If I capture you, let''s see what that woman will do!" Jinpeng said, his excitement growing.


    A woman? Longs for?


    "Who is this woman you''re talking about?" Zhong Shan''s eyes grew cold as he asked.


    "So the woman pines away for a heartless man, huh? It seems even the Central Divine Lord (�������) can fail sometimes! Hahaha!" Jinpengughed mockingly.


    Central Divine Lord? Zhong Shan immediately realized who Jinpeng was talking about��Bao''er, or rather, the Central Divine Lord, who looked exactly like Bao''er.


    "So, you''re still not her match," Zhong Shan said, his voice steady but with an undertone of realization.


    At the same time, Zhong Shan was taken aback by the realization of how powerful the Central Divine Lord must be. Jinpeng was a true Ancestral Immortal, and a formidable one at that, yet his tone was filled with apprehension toward the Central Divine Lord.


    Central Divine Lord...


    "As long as I consume this origin dragon, she might not be able to stop me anymore. Or maybe capturing you will be enough!" Jinpeng said grimly.


    Zhong Shan carefully listened to Jinpeng''s words. Jinpeng implied that even after advancing his cultivation by consuming the origin dragon, he would only "possibly" be able to defeat the Central Divine Lord��possibly, not certainly.


    It was clear now: the Central Divine Lord was incredibly powerful, beyond what Jinpeng could handle even with an increase in strength. This realization put Zhong Shan''s mind at ease regarding Bao''er''s safety. With such a powerful entity as her protector, who could harm Bao''er? Jinpeng''s frustration was proof of that.


    "Too bad you''ll never get that chance," Zhong Shan said, shaking his head.


    "Leave now! Or do you want me to escort you?" Jieyin said, his tone growing more resolute.


    From behind Jieyin, an immense golden light burst forth, turning the entire Ling Mountain into a radiant gold. A terrifying pressure bore down on Jinpeng. The surrounding Buddhas and Bodhisattvas began chanting Buddhist hymns, as if to bolster Jieyin''s resolve.


    Jinpeng looked at Jieyin, then cast onest hateful nce at Zhong Shan and his group. With a cold snort, he turned and shot off into the distance. Jinpeng''s speed was truly extraordinary��within an instant, he had vanished from sight.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1037: The Beginning of the Sage Slaughter

    <h4>Chapter 1037: The Beginning of the Sage ughter</h4>


    Although Jinpeng had been driven away by Jieyin, the cold, sinister look in his eyes before he left made it clear to Zhong Shan that Jinpeng was not going to let this go. He would undoubtedly bide his time, waiting for the right moment to strike. Zhong Shan knew he had to be vignt in the future.


    For the next month, Zhong Shan and his group stayed at the Great Leiyin Temple. During this time, Zhong Shan had several private discussions with Jieyin, learning many of the world''s hidden secrets.


    One monthter...


    Zhong Shan was in the middle of another conversation with Jieyin when Jieyin suddenly stood up and said, "Tathagata has returned!"


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan also stood up.


    Soon after, the doors of the hall were pushed open, and the towering figure of Tathagata Buddha slowly walked in.


    "Jieyin Buddha!" Tathagata greeted with a slight bow.


    "Tathagata Buddha!" Jieyin nodded in return.


    "Saint King Zhong Shan is here as well?" Tathagata looked at Zhong Shan.


    "Greetings, Tathagata Buddha!" Zhong Shan nodded.


    "No need to worry about Zhong Shan. Go ahead, tell me what you''ve decided," Jieyin said.


    "We''ve reached a conclusion. I will not participate in the Sage ughter," Tathagata shook his head.


    "Understood."


    "Lan won''t participate either. He has already left the mortal realm and returned to his holy court," Tathagata said solemnly.


    Zhong Shan was slightly surprised to hear that Lan wouldn''t be participating either.


    "And the Sage ughter has already begun," Tathagata continued.


    "It has begun?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "Yes," Tathagata confirmed with a nod.


    Jieyin''s face darkened slightly. It had already begun? So soon?


    "This is a message from Zhunti for you," Tathagata said, taking out a jade slip and handing it to Jieyin.


    Jieyin took the jade slip and scanned it with his divine sense. His expression changed slightly, and then he abruptly disappeared from the hall.


    Tathagata and Zhong Shan exchanged a nce, with Tathagata offering a gentle smile.


    "Hahahahaha!"


    Fifteen minutester, Jieyin''s boomingughter echoed throughout Ling Mountain. The sound was immense but carried a tone of tragic determination. The entire mountain shook. Suddenly, with a loud crack, Ling Mountain split open, releasing an endless stream of golden light that filled the sky.


    A massive nine-petal golden lotus suddenly emerged from the mountain, radiating blinding light as the mountain slowly sealed itself once more, though it now appeared significantly dimmer.


    "Zhong Shan, I''m going to ughter a Sage. Are youing with me?" Jieyin reappeared beside Zhong Shan and asked.


    "Yes!" Zhong Shan responded without hesitation.


    In that moment, Zhong Shan had considered many things. At the Great Leiyin Temple, only Jieyin was an ally, while Jinpeng remained a lurking threat. This was not a ce to stay.


    Besides, witnessing the Sage ughter, even if he couldn''t participate directly, would be an event worth experiencing.


    "Very well," Jieyin nodded.


    With a sweep of his sleeve, Jieyin took Zhong Shan and all the people he had brought with him, and they shot off into the sky.


    As they flew, Zhong Shan noticed that Jieyin''s brow remained furrowed. At the same time, Zhong Shan observed that the world around them seemed to be trembling, as if a fierce battle was raging somewhere.


    "What happened?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Hongjun''s heavenly meridian is causing the trouble!" Jieyin replied, his expression grim.


    "Oh?"


    "Confucius has made his move. He intends to seize the heavenly meridian of the heavenly court. You must understand, that meridian is one of the strongest Daos. Right now, no one can fully control it, but if Confucius seeds in iming the meridian, he will undoubtedly be a leader among the Sages, just as Hongjun once was," Jieyin said, his face reflecting the gravity of the situation.


    "Hmm?"


    "The most crucial part is that Confucius seizing the heavenly meridian is actually a trap set by the Jade Emperor and Ying��a trap designed to ensnare Sages," Jieyin said, his expression darkening.


    "A trap set by the Jade Emperor and Ying?" Zhong Shan asked, surprised.


    "Yes, everything has been carefully orchestrated to lure Sages into it. Ying and the Jade Emperor had nned this long ago. Thest time you went to the Heavenly Court, it was simply a matter of timing��the heavenly meridian was always intended to be released to tempt the Sages! The Jade Emperor has remarkable audacity; by revealing the heavenly meridian, he intends to disrupt Hongjun''s schemes," Jieyin said, clearly displeased.


    "But is Confucius really that easy to fool?" Hao Meili asked, puzzled.


    Even though Hao Meili didn''t particrly revere Sages, she knew that every Sage had an incredible depth of calction and intelligence to have reached such a position. How could Confucius be easily deceived?


    "It''s not that he''s easy to fool��he''spelled to act. Confucius is losing his momentum, and some things are no longer within his control. Moreover, the nine Sages don''t exactly get along harmoniously," Jieyin exined, shaking his head.


    "If Confucius has fallen into the trap set by the Jade Emperor and Ying, and considering that figures like Taishang, Zhunti, and Ying are involved, do you really need to join in?" Zhong Shan asked.


    Jieyin looked at Zhong Shan and shook his head. "Confucius isn''t the only one caught in this trap."


    "Oh?" Zhong Shan was startled.


    "Confucius is a Sage��do you think he would walk into a trap without a n? Along with him, Mitian has also entered the fray," Jieyin said with a sigh.


    "Two Sages? Then this Sage ughter won''t be easy," Zhong Shan remarked.


    "Not just difficult��it''s nearly impossible. With two Sages working together, even if we all join in, we may not seed in ying them. We have to rely on the weakness Ying has discovered in Confucius, and we must act quickly!" Jieyin said, shaking his head in frustration.


    "Why the urgency?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Because with two Sages, they can use the heavenly meridian to invoke the heavenly mandate. Once the heavenly mandate is involved, we, the former Sages, will be in grave danger. This trap set by Ying and the Jade Emperor doesn''t just force Confucius into the game��it alsopels me, Zhunti, Taishang, and Sa to join in! Their strategy is incredibly deep," Jieyin said, his voice filled with a mix of frustration and grudging admiration.


    Jieyin''s tone was filled withints about Ying and the Jade Emperor, but despite his grievances, he had no choice but to step into the trap they hadid.


    "This scheme is enormous��no wonder Lan refused to participate, and Tathagata withdrew to the Great Leiyin Temple," Zhong Shan said, taking a deep breath.


    "Indeed. I never imagined Ying''s ambition would be this vast," Jieyin replied, also taking a deep breath.


    "Ying''s ambition?"


    "Ying isn''t just trying to settle his grudge with Confucius. He wants to y a Sage, establish the Heavenly Court, and crown himself as the Heavenly Emperor," Jieyin said, his tone grave.


    "Establishing the Heavenly Court!" Zhong Shan''s pupils contracted in shock.


    Everything was happening too quickly��Zhong Shan felt as if the world''s events were unfolding faster than he could keep up with. Clenching his fists, he silently reminded himself that he had to grow stronger, and quickly. Otherwise, he would be left behind as nothing more than a footnote in history.


    "I just don''t understand what the Jade Emperor is ying at. By using the Heavenly Court as the battlefield, his power will bepletely dismantled by this battle, and even the backup ns left by Hongjun will be destroyed. What is he trying to achieve?" Jieyin said, perplexed.


    "We''ll have to wait until this trap is sprung and then ask him," Zhong Shan suggested.


    "That''s all we can do," Jieyin agreed with a nod.


    Jieyin''s speed was incredible. It didn''t take long for them to reach the Heavenly Court from the Great Leiyin Temple.


    As Zhong Shan and Jieyin arrived at the outskirts of the Heavenly Court, they suddenly stopped their advance. In the distance, forty-nine Dao pirs reached from the heavens to the earth, protecting the interior of the Heavenly Court. Beyond this barrier, nothing was visible��only the vast darkness of ck holes that had torn the surrounding space apart.


    No one dared to get too close, and it was clear that the intense battle within had been raging for a long time. The only spectators in the vicinity were supreme powerhouses; anyone weaker had long since been obliterated by the intense spatial turbulence.


    Jieyin, along with Zhong Shan and his group,nded at a certain point on the outskirts, where they noticed an abandoned city. On the tallest building of this city stood a man dressed in green��Kong Xuan.


    Jieyin approached Kong Xuan with Zhong Shan and the others.


    "Jieyin?" Kong Xuan nced over with curiosity.


    "Kong Xuan, why aren''t you entering the battle?" Jieyin asked.


    "This conflict is too vast. Unless absolutely necessary, I won''t get involved," Kong Xuan replied, shaking his head. It was clear that Kong Xuan understood the gravity of the situation.


    "I have a favor to ask of you. Consider it a way to repay the debt you owe me," Jieyin said seriously.


    "Oh?" Kong Xuan raised an eyebrow.


    "While I''m inside, please protect them for me," Jieyin said, gesturing to Zhong Shan and his group.


    "Is that all?" Kong Xuan asked, his tone grave.


    "That''s all," Jieyin confirmed with a nod.


    "Very well," Kong Xuan agreed without hesitation.


    Jieyin nodded in appreciation and then, with a blur of movement, he rushed toward the forty-nine Dao pirs.


    Inside those pirs were two Sages, along with a host of Ancestral Immortals. As Jieyin vanished into the fray, Zhong Shan, who had been listening to the arrangements quietly, sighed. He knew well that the battle between Sages was far beyond his current capabilities.


    Kong Xuan didn''t pay much attention to Zhong Shan, his focus remaining on the distant battlefield. While Zhong Shan couldn''t see what was happening, Kong Xuan, using his connection to the Dao, likely could. Yet, despite his pride, even Kong Xuan was cautious about entering such a perilous battle.


    The aftermath of this conflict would undoubtedly bring about significant changes in the world''s power structure.


    Kong Xuan remained aloof, so Zhong Shan saw no reason to engage with him. After all, their rtionship was not particrly amicable. Instead, Zhong Shan noted that many other powerful figures were also watching from this abandoned city.


    In the distance, Zhong Shan spotted a figure with the head of a bull.


    "Let''s go," Zhong Shan said, leading his group toward the figure.


    Kong Xuan noticed this but paid it no mind, his attention quickly returning to the battlefield.


    As Zhong Shan approached, the bull-headed figure noticed him as well.


    "Saint King Zhong!" the Bull Demon King greeted with a slight bow.


    "Bull Demon King! Greetings," Zhong Shan responded with a slight bow of his own.


    The Bull Demon King nodded.


    "We''ve just arrived. Would you mind telling us what has happened here?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "If Saint King Zhong is interested, I see no reason to withhold the information. After all, many others witnessed it as well," the Bull Demon King replied without pretense.


    "Three days ago, Confucius suddenly came to the Heavenly Court. It seems he had his eye on the ce and wanted to take it for himself��much like how I once took over Jilei Mountain because I fancied thend. I guess it''s the same with Sages. After some discussion, Taishang appeared, followed by Zhunti, and they started fighting. The battle grew fiercer, and then Mitian Sage joined in from who knows where. After that, Ying of the Great Qin also jumped into the fray. They''ve been fighting ever since, making the sky and earth tremble. Just a while ago, that man you came with also joined the battle. If this goes on much longer, the Heavenly Court will be destroyed even if someone does manage to im it," the Bull Demon King exined in his straightforward manner.


    Though his words were rough, the Bull Demon King provided a clear overview of the situation: Ying, the Jade Emperor, Zhunti, Taishang, Jieyin, Confucius, and Mitian were all embroiled in this colossal battle.


    But why was there no mention of Guiguzi? And where was Sa?


    "What about the people of the Heavenly Court?" Hao Meili asked, curious.


    "Where could they run to? They''re all still inside, I reckon. Who knows if there''s even anything left of them by now!" the Bull Demon King replied with a hint of regret, clearly mourning the loss of the beautiful celestial maidens who were likely caught in the chaos.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1038: Ying鈥檚 Transformation

    <h4>Chapter 1038: Ying''s Transformation</h4>


    To the north of the Four Great Continents, within the region of Lujiang.


    Lujiang was the ce where the Sage Confucius rose to fame, and it was the most prosperous center of Confucianism in the world. Recently, all the Confucian academies in Lujiang had received orders: students were to diligently study the <i>Analects</i> within the academies and were not to ck off. As a result, for the past three days, the air in Lujiang had been filled with the endless sound of reciting texts, which had not ceased even for a moment.


    It was as if every word spoken out loud siphoned off a bit of the faith and devotion toward Confucius, gradually being absorbed into the skies above Lujiang. The entire region''s sky was a vast expanse of white, and at the center of Lujiang, an enormous statue of Confucius was shrouded in endless white light. Even at night, the glow did not diminish.


    The statue of Confucius seemed capable of absorbing the white light, continuously drawing in the boundless faith from the region. Beneath the statue was a vastplex of pces��this was the holynd of Confucianism, the sacred ground where Confucius himself had taught: the Confucian Sacred Pce.


    Around the Sacred Pce, many great Confucian schrs sat, endlessly reciting the <i>Analects</i>, channeling the immense faith of Confucianism into the statue of Confucius, which then transmitted it to the distant location where Confucius resided.


    The Confucian Sacred Pce was a massiveplex of pces, with a main hall at its heart, aptly named the Confucian Sacred Pce.


    While the great schrs outside were fervently reciting the texts, the interior of the pce remained eerily quiet.


    Suddenly, someone pushed open the grand doors. It was Kong Sekong, Confucius'' great-grandson.


    "Who is it?" a voice angrily demanded from within the hall.


    "Master-Uncle, it''s me, Sekong!" Kong Sekong immediately replied.


    He entered the hall, quickly shutting the doors behind him.


    Inside the hall, a man was seated cross-legged, dressed in white Confucian robes, exuding an air of otherworldly elegance. If Zhong Shan were present, he would have immediately recognized this man as thest Ancestral Immortal of the Confucian sect.


    "Sekong? What are you doing here?" the man in Confucian robes asked, puzzled.


    "Great-Grandfather is facing great difficulty, and as his great-grandson, I want to do something to help," Sekong said with a sigh.


    "You know?" the man in the Confucian robes asked, frowning.


    "Yes, it''s no secret. Lujiang is on high alert��who doesn''t know? But because I am weak, I can''t do much to help Great-Grandfather," Sekong said, his face full of frustration.


    "The fact that you have this filial heart is alreadymendable. Master is currently facing numerous Ancestral Immortals across the Four Great Continents, but it shouldn''t take much longer," the man in the Confucian robes said.


    "Master-Uncle, I am powerless to help Great-Grandfather, but you are an Ancestral Immortal! You can assist him��your strength would be a great support to him," Sekong said urgently.


    "Master has ordered me to guard this ce!" the man in the Confucian robes replied, looking conflicted.


    "Guard this ce? What''s there to guard? All the Master-Uncles are outside, who would dare cause trouble here? The Master-Uncles are all diligently reciting the texts, pouring their hearts into it, while you sit here idly��this...!" Sekong''s tone was tinged with frustration.


    It was clear that he was ming the man for not helping Confucius. After all, everyone else was reciting the texts to gather faith for Confucius, while this powerful Ancestral Immortal just sat here doing nothing.


    "I cannot. My duty is to protect the Sacred Image of Faith. Only by guarding it can Master have a continuous source of faith power," the man in the Confucian robes said, shaking his head.


    "The Sacred Image of Faith is absolutely secure��no one can destroy it!" Sekong said confidently.


    "Oh?" The man in the Confucian robes seemed to sense something in Sekong''s words.


    "I''ve already sought help from the Kong family. They''ve agreed to assist," Sekong said.


    "But the Kong family doesn''t usually involve themselves in Master''s affairs."


    "Great-Grandfather is still the head of the Kong family, after all. Who is Kong Xuan to stand in their way? I''ve enlisted two Ancestral Immortals from the Kong family to secretly protect the Sacred Image of Faith. They''re in hiding to avoid being detected by the Four Old Elders of the Kong family," Sekong exined quickly.


    "Good, Sekong, you''ve done well. When Master returns, I will report this to him��you''ll be credited with the first merit!" The man in the Confucian robes said excitedly.


    "Yes, then I must ask you, Master-Uncle, to go and assist Great-Grandfather. No matter what, even if you can only help him hold off one Ancestral Immortal, it would be a tremendous aid to him!" Sekong continued to plead.


    "You''re right. I''ll go immediately. I''ll leave this ce in your hands!" the man in the Confucian robes responded excitedly.


    "Don''t worry!" Sekong nodded.


    With a sh, the man in the Confucian robes disappeared from the hall.


    Sekong waited for a moment, ensuring that the man had truly left. Once certain, his expression grew cold, and a sinister smile crept across his face.


    <strong>Northern Jambu Continent, Holy Corpse Mountain.</strong>


    In front of the Biyou Pce, Sa stood silently, holding the Qingping Sword, gazing in the direction of the Heavenly Court. The heavenly meridian array left behind by Hongjun had thrown the entire Four Great Continents into chaos, yet the area around Holy Corpse Mountain remained eerily still.


    Sa, now confirmed by the reborn Sages as being the corpse of the Tongtian Sage, stood there, his face still obscured. Despite the chaos spreading across thends, Sa remained calm, seemingly calcting something with a serene demeanor.


    After watching the heavens for three days and nights, Sa finally turned and walked back into Biyou Pce. The grand doors of the pce mmed shut, and it seemed that Sa no longer cared about the conflicts surrounding the Heavenly Court.


    <strong>Around the Heavenly Court.</strong>


    More and more powerful figures gathered, and gradually, people began to understand the situation at hand. A battle against Sages? Sages, revered by the world, were held in high esteem, but beneath the surface, many people harbored selfish thoughts. Why should they be Sages, while I am just a lowly cultivator awaiting death? Thus, in their hearts, people secretly wished to see the Sages pulled down from their exalted positions.


    As Jieyin charged into the fray, the ck hole outside the forty-nine heavenly meridians grewrger. The surrounding experts became even more cautious.


    Kong Xuan and Zhong Shan observed the battlefield, each from their own perspective. In a distant corner, Sun Shen clenched his fists as he too watched the battle. Sun Shen had noticed Zhong Shan''s arrival earlier, but his main concern now was Zhunti''s involvement.


    In another ce, within a secluded valley, Tathagata Buddha, his hands sped in a gesture of respect, had also arrived at the periphery, his aura concealed as he watched the distant battle.


    Zhong Shan stared at the battlefield, but the ck hole obscured everything from sight, making it impossible to understand what was happening within.


    Suddenly, a deafening crash echoed from the heart of the battlefield, and a figure shot out.


    It was Ying!


    As soon as Zhong Shan saw Ying, his brow furrowed. What was Ying up to?


    Ying didn''t retreat; instead, he hovered in the air at the edge of the battlefield, staring intently at the massive ck hole.


    Then, unexpectedly, Ying threw his head back and let out a thunderous roar.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The roar was so powerful that it seemed to drown out all other sounds in the world. The sheer force of it resonated in the ears and hearts of everyone present, conveying a message of fury, violence, and overwhelming strength.


    All around, the gathered powerhouses felt the force of Ying''s roar echoing within them, a reminder of the terrifying power he wielded.


    As Ying''s roar reverberated across the heavens, his body began to undergo a dramatic transformation. From his back, something began to emerge��no, it wasn''t just something. It was a pair of enormous wings. Massive wings sprouted from his back, growing rapidly until they were more than ten times the length of his body.


    These wings weren''t covered in feathers. Instead, they wereyered with what looked like countless dragon scales, their dark, obsidian-like surface exuding an aura of formidable strength. The bones of the wings resembled those of a dragon, immense and imposing, embodying a sense of raw power.


    Ying''s mouth opened wide as he roared toward the sky. Even from a distance, everyone could clearly see the transformation��his mouth now bore two huge, blood-red fangs, and his eyes had turnedpletely crimson, devoid of pupils, glowing with an eerie, unsettling light.


    He had taken on the form of a powerful, domineering zombie��a terrifying disy of undead might. As he roared, the sky above began to swirl with blood-red clouds, which rotated ominously around a central point, creating an oppressive atmosphere. Gradually, these blood clouds were drawn into Ying''s mouth as he inhaled them deeply.


    Ying''s skin darkened slightly, and his arms swelled, bing more muscr and powerful. His fists, now massive and ckened, clenched tightly, causing small cracks to appear in the surrounding space, as if he were crushing the very fabric of reality.


    After the roar subsided, Ying turned his gaze back toward the ck hole where the battle raged. With a powerful p of his enormous dragon-bone wings, he shot back into the heart of the battlefield.


    The moment Ying made his appearance, all conversation among the onlookers ceased. The sheer force of his presence during that brief roar had left everyone speechless, the oppressive energy silencing any who had been talking.


    The Bull Demon King, standing beside Zhong Shan, had a look of deep shock in his eyes.


    Zhong Shan, however, was not as surprised. He had heard of this form before, back in the Small Thousand World when Ying had awakened from his slumber in the same terrifying form.


    As Zhong Shan watched the distant battlefield, his pupils suddenly contracted.


    The red Ruan Pink Lotus mark on his forehead turned blue��a sign of great danger.


    Without hesitation, Zhong Shan activated his Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, bringing it forth to shield those around him.


    Just then, a streak of light shot toward them, colliding violently with the tail of the Zhuxian Sword.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The building beneath Zhong Shan''s feet exploded into rubble, and the Bull Demon King was forced to retreat under the immense pressure, quickly fleeing the area.


    The streak of light that had collided with the Zhuxian Sword''s tail turned out to be a massive golden hand.


    Both the Zhuxian Sword and the golden hand were forced back from the collision.


    It was Jinpeng! The relentless Golden-Winged Roc had followed them here, still determined to pursue Zhong Shan and the source dragon.


    Jinpeng had arrived, immediately noticing Zhong Shan and his group, along with the source dragon. Realizing that Jieyin was no longer with them, Jinpeng was overjoyed.


    He struck out with a powerful w, confident that without Jieyin, no one could stop him.


    Even when the sword-shaped tail emerged to block him, Jinpeng wasn''t concerned. What could a mere sword do? As long as it wasn''t an Ancestral Immortal weapon, no sword could withstand his grip.


    But after the collision, Jinpeng realized something was wrong.


    "The Zhuxian Sword!" Jinpeng''s mind screamed in disbelief. The sh had left neither side victorious.


    Jinpeng stared at the massive Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail and then at its purple tail tip, shock written all over his face. "The Zhuxian Sword? How has it turned into a tail?"


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1039: Whether You Believe It or Not, I Do

    <h4>Chapter 1039: Whether You Believe It or Not, I Do</h4>


    Jinpeng took a closer look at Zhong Shan and his group. Apart from the ancient immortal who had used time-rted techniquesst time, the highest cultivation among them was only at the Grand Immortal level. Jinpeng had fought countless battles in his lifetime and had seen many powerful individuals who could challenge those at higher levels. However, those were usually only capable of challenging one level above their own, such as certain fierce individuals at the ancient immortal stage who could threaten even Ancestral Immortals. But a Grand Immortal? There was no way.


    The only one who might be a concern was the ancient immortal with time-maniption abilities. But he was just at the early stage of ancient immortality��nothing to worry about. And this beast?


    The Zhuxian Sword?


    Hmph, the Zhuxian Sword was destroyed long ago. No matter how it was restored, it could never regain its former power.


    In an instant, Jinpeng assessed the situation and shot forward with a roar. His speed was so fast that even among Ancestral Immortals, few could match him. In the blink of an eye, only an afterimage remained as he closed in on Zhong Shan. Zhong Shan could barely catch a faint glimpse of him with his divine sense.


    The four swords of Zhu, Lu, Xian, and Jue simultaneously sealed Jinpeng''s path.


    But Jinpeng was too fast. His figure blurred as he moved, turning the four-sword blockade into an attack from just one sword, the Juexian Sword.


    With a fierce re, Jinpeng swung his right hand to strike the Juexian Sword.


    "Boom!"


    The powerful collision caused the space around them to tremble violently. In this sh, Jinpeng realized that this sword was indeed the Juexian Sword.


    Despite the fierce impact, neither the Juexian Sword nor Jinpeng gained the upper hand. However, Jinpeng, ever the ferocious fighter, did not retreat. Instead, he pressed forward, sidestepping the Juexian Sword while lunging toward Zhong Shan.


    Jinpeng could see that Zhong Shan was the leader of the group. If he could capture Zhong Shan, the rest would be at his mercy.


    With a swift motion, Jinpeng reached out to grab Zhong Shan. The surrounding space seemed to lock in ce, sealing off any escape.


    But at that moment, Jinpeng saw something unexpected��Zhong Shan was not retreating in fear but was instead charging forward to meet his attack head-on.


    Jinpeng almostughed. A mere Grand Immortal daring to confront him directly?


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Suddenly, a deafening dragon''s roar erupted from within Zhong Shan''s body, drawing the attention of every cultivator in the deserted city.


    At the same time, Zhong Shan''s eyes widened with intensity. The Ninth Stage of Heavenly Demon Body Refinement erupted within him, boosting his strength tenfold. In Lingxiao Heavenly Court, Zhong Shan''s voice resounded as hemanded the people to raise their right hands.


    Protected by the True Dragon, and borrowing the momentum of the Great Zheng Kingdom, Zhong Shan''s power surged, momentarily reaching the level of an early-stage Ancestral Immortal.


    "First Form of Heaven-Opening!"


    With a thunderous shout, Zhong Shan''s palms suddenly turned silver. As the True Dragon within him let out a resounding roar, Zhong Shan unleashed the First Form of Heaven-Opening.


    In the void, a massive silver Dao path extended from the heavens to the earth. A mighty force apanied Zhong Shan''s palms, forming an enormous ax de tens of thousands of feet long.


    As the First Form of Heaven-Opening was unleashed, the void trembled, and a ck hole appeared at the edge of the ax de as it swept toward Jinpeng.


    Meanwhile, Zhong Shan had already sent the Eight Extremes Heavenly Tail, Mr. Corpse, Hao Meili, and the others into the "Divine Realm."


    Unstoppable, the First Form of Heaven-Opening created a ck hole in the void, and the terrifying ax de shed toward Jinpeng''s iing hand.


    Knowing full well the terrifying nature of his opponent, Zhong Shan did not hold back. He immediately unleashed the same devastating move he had used against the Snow Plum Ancestor, recognizing the monstrous threat that Jinpeng posed.


    Jinpeng initially didn''t use his full strength when he attempted to grab Zhong Shan. After all, Zhong Shan was only at the Grand Immortal stage, and Jinpeng feared that if he exerted too much force, he might identally crush him. He still had ns for Zhong Shan, and he needed him alive. But even with his measured attack, Jinpeng was confident that no mere Grand Immortal could escape his grasp.


    However, in the next instant, Jinpeng realized his mistake. As the dragon''s roar emanated from Zhong Shan, Jinpeng could feel the power within him surge in a direction he hadn''t anticipated. What he thought was amb ready for ughter had suddenly transformed into a fearsome ancient beast.


    Such an anomaly shouldn''t exist in this world, yet here it was, right before his eyes.


    Of course, Jinpeng, seasoned by countless battles, instinctively merged with his Dao.


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A massive explosion shook the area, engulfing the surroundings in a huge ck hole. Two Dao paths, one gold and one silver, collided in a blinding sh, their brilliance unmatched.


    The abandoned city, unable to withstand the might of the two Ancestral Immortals, crumbled to dust in the wake of the attack. The surrounding powerhouses retreated in fear��who were these monstrous beings, and why had another fight broken out here?


    As the First Form of Heaven-Opening dissipated, the ck hole gradually faded, and the Dao path behind Zhong Shan vanished as well. This time, Zhong Shan did not pass out. His cultivation had increased, allowing him to better withstand the aftermath of such a powerful technique. Although his entire body was still exhausted, Zhong Shan maintained hisposure.


    ring at the distant Jinpeng with fierce, unyielding eyes, Zhong Shan''s presence exuded an overwhelming sense of ferocity. Though tired, he was far from defeated. He had anticipated the challenges he would face upon arriving in the Four Great Continents, and with the mind of an emperor, Zhong Shan was certain he still had cards to y.


    While Zhong Shan''s Dao path disappeared, Jinpeng''s remained. Within the golden Dao, Jinpeng appeared disheveled��his hair was disarrayed, and his hand bled profusely.


    He had underestimated his opponent, a mistake that had cost him dearly.


    Though Jinpeng''s injuries weren''t severe��he had managed to expel most of the residual power from the First Form of Heaven-Opening using his Dao��the gash on his hand was deep. If he had not been so careless, if he had used his full strength from the beginning, he might not have been injured, nor would he be in such a humiliating state.


    It had been countless millennia since Jinpengst bled in battle. Today, he had bled once more.


    Furious, Jinpeng called forth a weapon��a ming halberd known as the Fangtian Halberd appeared in his right hand. His rage was palpable, his eyes burning with the intent to kill.


    But before he could act, the others who had been sent into the Divine Realm by Zhong Shan reappeared before him.


    Jinpeng hesitated, the surprise from Zhong Shan''s unexpected power still fresh in his mind. Otherwise, he would have already charged forward with his Fangtian Halberd. Who was Jinpeng, after all? This was the same being who, upon entering the Ancestral Immortal stage, dared to wreak havoc in the Great Thunder Sound Temple��a being who feared neither heaven nor earth.


    "Senior Kong Xuan, will you continue to just watch?" Zhong Shan called out.


    Kong Xuan?


    The name made Jinpeng freeze. He looked up, scanning the skies.


    Kong Xuan, who had been observing the scene from above, had been watching everything unfold with a cold detachment. Only when Zhong Shan addressed him did Kong Xuan reluctantly descend.


    Jinpeng''s expression shifted as he heard the name. Surprise shed across his face, quickly reced by aplex mix of emotions as he looked at Kong Xuan.


    "You''re still alive?" Jinpeng eximed.


    "You''re the same as always. My return may not have shaken the heavens, but at least the Four Great Continents and Eastern Continent should have heard by now," Kong Xuan replied, shaking his head slightly.


    Jinpeng stared at Kong Xuan, his emotions a swirling blend of joy and confusion. Their history was long andplicated, and the fact that Kong Xuan stood before him now only added to Jinpeng''s inner turmoil.


    Jinpeng shook his head in frustration, "I just returned from the West, how would I know?"


    Kong Xuan nodded slightly in acknowledgment.


    "Step aside. I''m going to take them down," Jinpeng dered, his tone firm.


    Kong Xuan, however, shook his head.


    "What? Are you going to stand against me as well?" Jinpeng''s voice carried a note of irritation.


    Kong Xuan''s approach to Jinpeng was not cold; instead, he seemed genuinely concerned as he tried to reason with him. "You can''t take them now. I promised Jieyin I would protect them to repay a favor I owe him from long ago."


    "Protect them?" Jinpeng''s expression darkened.


    "Yes."


    "So, you''re choosing to protect them? I''m telling you right now, I''m going to capture them. Are you going to let me, or not? What''s more important to you, Jieyin''s favor or mine?" Jinpeng pressed, his eyes narrowing.


    Kong Xuan looked intently at Jinpeng for a moment before shaking his head. "You''re still the same as ever��an extraordinary being with innate talent. But this world isn''t one where sheer strength can solve everything. Have you still not learned to think?"


    "Think? What do you mean by that? I''ve crushed every enemy beneath my feet. I only know that when I want something, I go and take it. Back then, when you were humiliated at the Great Thunder Sound Temple, I didn''t hesitate to storm the temple, regardless of the consequences, just because I wanted to stand up for you and restore your honor. Now, are you going to let me through or not?" Jinpeng was seething with anger.


    Kong Xuan shook his head again. "I was like you once, but the world isn''t a ce you can conquer with mere willpower. As for them, it''s true I promised Jieyin I''d protect them, but more importantly, they aren''t as simple as you think. I can tell you right now, if anything happens to them here, you will undoubtedly be torn apart."


    Jinpeng knew that Kong Xuan wouldn''t lie to him, but he still found it hard to believe. What kind of backing did these people have?


    "Why? Who are they?" For the first time, Jinpeng''s tone became serious.


    "Who they are doesn''t matter. What matters is that these people are now the bnce point for another battlefield," Kong Xuan exined.


    "They''re a bnce point...?" Jinpeng''s gaze shifted toward the massive ck hole in the distance��the battlefield that had engulfed the Heavenly Court. His heart skipped a beat as he tried to process this revtion.


    How could this be? How could this group be tied to the battle raging in the sky?


    "At most, they might be connected to Jieyin!" Jinpeng said, though with less certainty than before.


    "Yes, they are connected to Jieyin. But right now, the sky is in a delicate bnce. If you break that bnce, your enemies will include not just Jieyin, but also Taishang, Zhunti, Ying, Guiguzi, Haotian, and even Sa!" Kong Xuan''s voice was stern.


    "I don''t believe it!" Jinpeng shouted in anger.


    "It doesn''t matter whether you believe it or not. I do. And as long as I''m here, no one will harm them," Kong Xuan firmly stated, standing resolutely in Jinpeng''s path.


    Jinpeng clenched his Fangtian Halberd, his muscles tense and veins bulging in his hands. His anger was overwhelming, and the urge tosh out was nearly unbearable. His eyes were bloodshot, and it seemed as though he would attack at any moment.


    "Until that battle is over, you are not to touch them. After the battle ends, I won''t stop you," Kong Xuan dered, his voice calm but unyielding.


    Jinpeng was furious to the point that veins bulged on his forehead, but Kong Xuan was the one blocking him. If it had been anyone else, Jinpeng would have shed them down without a second thought. But now, he found himself caught in a frustrating dilemma.


    After casting a fierce re at Zhong Shan and his group, Jinpeng turned abruptly, deciding to avoid further conflict with Kong Xuan. With a sh, he disappeared from sight.


    Kong Xuan watched Jinpeng leave and let out a small sigh. Without acknowledging Zhong Shan, he once again found a high peak and perched himself atop it, resuming his watchful stance.


    Zhong Shan, feeling the exhaustion catch up with him, swayed slightly. Hao Meili quickly moved to support him.


    The abandoned city had been destroyed in the earlier battle, so Zhong Shan and his group found another secluded valley to rest.


    The surrounding powerhouses, witnessing the earlier confrontation, could only gulp nervously. The Bull Demon King''s expression wasplex, unable to fully grasp or articte his feelings about what had just transpired. Sun Shen, on the other hand, cast a resentful nce in the direction where Jinpeng had disappeared.


    In a distant, hidden valley, Tathagata Buddha watched the scene unfold. His usually serene face now bore a slight frown as he contemted the implications of what had just urred.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1040: Ying Devours the Sage

    <h4>Chapter 1040: Ying Devours the Sage</h4>


    The battle in the Heavenly Court raged on.


    Two more days passed, and Zhong Shan had fully recovered from the side effects of the Heavenly Demon Body Refinement technique. The fatigue he felt hadpletely dissipated thanks to the nourishing effects of the Divine Realm.


    He watched the massive ck hole from a distance, unable to see inside. Zhong Shan couldn''t glimpse the battle within, but Kong Xuan could. asionally, Zhong Shan would nce at Kong Xuan''s expression, hoping to glean some insight into the battle''s progress.


    Unfortunately, Kong Xuan''s expression remained unchanged, giving nothing away. However, just moments ago, Kong Xuan''s face suddenly shifted, and a brilliant green light shed from his eyes.


    Had the bnce within been broken?


    "Boom~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    A deafening explosion echoed across the heavens and earth. This wasn''t a sounding from within the ck hole, but rather, it reverberated across all four corners of the world.


    At the same moment, in the underworld, in the secluded region of Zhuanlun, the same thunderous sound was heard.


    The st echoed through the entire universe��not just the Four Great Continents, but the entire world, including the underworld!


    A sound that shook the heavens! Then, all across thend, blood clouds suddenly began to gather, rolling in from all directions. A profound sense of sorrow washed over every heart.


    Countless mortals dropped to their knees, as if heaven itself was preparing to unleash a divine punishment upon the world.


    Some, ovee with emotion, began to weep uncontrobly without understanding why. It was as if an overwhelming sadness had gripped their hearts,pelling them to cry.


    The blood clouds thickened, and soon, crimson raindrops began to fall from the sky. The entire world was bathed in a rain of blood.


    The earth began to emit a faint blood mist, and in the distance, the mournful sound of a horn, like that of a bull''s, could be faintly heard. The entire world was enveloped in an atmosphere of profound mncholy.


    It was a day that no one would ever forget.


    "A sage has fallen, and the heavens mourn," Zhong Shan murmured, his eyes narrowing.


    The powerful figures gathered around all seemed to realize this at the same moment. They held their breath and stared up at the sky.


    A sage had fallen? Before, the thought of a sage''s death might have been something people hoped for, but now that it had happened, the realization brought a shift in their hearts. If even a sage could die, was there any such thing as true immortality in this world?


    The onlookers remained silent, each weighed down by their own heavy thoughts as they gazed skyward.


    In the distance, the ck hole surrounding the Heavenly Court began to shrink, as if the battle there had finallye to an end. Slowly, the scene within became visible.


    The array of forty-nine Heavenly Daos still surrounded the center of the Heavenly Court, though it was now in ruins. Though it hadn''t beenpletely destroyed in the ck hole, it was badly damaged, with some sections dangling precariously, barely held together by the remaining structures.


    At the very center was the Heavenly Vein, the "Lin" Heavenly Vein, that Zhong Shan had seen before. The shadow of Hongjun that had once hovered over it was now so faint it was almost invisible. Clearly, the battle had nearly obliterated Hongjun''s imprint.


    Nearby, the Sage Mitian leaned against the Lin Heavenly Vein, standing atop a massive white altar. The altar''s runes shimmered with brilliant light.


    Zhong Shan recognized it immediately��it was a Heavenly Altar, a structure recognized by the heavens that could only be essed once one had reached the rank of a "living position" in the heavenly hierarchy.


    The altar was a tool of great power. Those with a lower position in the heavenly order who dared to attack Zhong Shan while he stood upon his altar would suffer a form of heavenly bacsh, though the effect was minor.


    But that wasn''t the most important detail. What really caught Zhong Shan''s attention was that Mitian was leaning heavily against the Heavenly Vein, his face pale and his body trembling.


    Across from Mitian, Ying stood tall and imposing, his form even more fearsome than before. His demonic transformation had fully taken hold, his eyes zing with red fury as the massive dragon wings on his back unfurled, casting a shadow over the battlefield.


    And then, with a predatory glint in his eyes, Ying opened his mouth wide and inhaled deeply.


    A powerful suction force surged from Ying, and before anyone could react, Mitian''s body began to disintegrate into countless particles of light, which were swiftly drawn into Ying''s gaping maw.


    "Sage Mitian...!" someone whispered in horror.


    Ying was devouring a sage.


    The sight was both terrifying and mesmerizing, leaving those who witnessed it in stunned silence.


    As Mitian''s essence was absorbed, the blood rain intensified, and the sorrowful cries of the heavens grew louder. The world itself seemed to weep for the loss of one of its mightiest beings.


    Zhong Shan watched, his expression unreadable. The implications of this act were profound��Ying wasn''t just defeating his enemies, he was consuming them, assimting their power.


    And with each sage he devoured, his own strength would only grow. This was not just a battle for supremacy; it was a battle that could reshape the very fabric of the world.


    A sage had fallen, and Ying had devoured him. The era was changing, and with it, the destiny of all who lived in this world.


    And the sage, the "Habit Position" of the Heavenly Position, the supreme position, how could it not have a Heavenly Altar?


    The massive white Heavenly Altar before them belonged to the Mitian Sage.


    The Mitian Sage stood atop his Heavenly Altar, a vast avenue covered in runes enveloping both the sage and the altar. His clothes were tattered, and he appeared somewhat battered, but he was still alive.


    Surrounding him were the Jade Emperor, Taishang, and Jieyin!


    These three formidable beings had managed to force the Mitian Sage into such a dire state.


    While this scene was significant, it was ultimately just a sideshow.


    The true focus of everyone''s attentiony elsewhere.


    On the other side, there was another massive Heavenly Altar.


    Outside, Zhun Ti held a multicolored tree, staring into the Heavenly Altar.


    Inside the altar stood Confucius.


    Confucius had merged with the Grand Dao of Confucianism, standing atop his Heavenly Altar. But even this could not stop Ying.


    Ying''s entire body was shrouded in ckness, with a pair of massive dragon-bone wings sprouting from his back. His eyes were blood-red, and his mouth bore two massive blood-red fangs. His powerful hands were deeply embedded in Confucius''s chest.


    Time seemed to freeze at this moment.


    Ying had indeed found the w in the Grand Dao of Confucianism; otherwise, how could he have prated it?


    Even more shockingly, Ying had actually in Confucius!


    A sage, just like that, in by Ying? With the heavens already weeping blood, no one believed that Confucius was still alive.


    A Grand Immortal killing a sage?


    The shock in people''s hearts was overwhelming, and Ying''s powerful image was indelibly imprinted in their minds.


    That domineering figure, the poise of a sage-yer!


    The world''s mightiest person, a sage? And now hey dead beneath Ying''s hands?


    "Master~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!"


    From the distant horizon came a cry of grief!


    This cry seemed to snap everyone out of their stunned thoughts, and almost everyone turned to look.


    A white-robed man, weary from travel, had just arrived. But what he saw upon arrival was a sight he couldn''t bear to ept. Tears flowed uncontrobly from his eyes.


    Zhong Shan recognized him��it was one of the Grand Immortals who had fought in Xianyang.


    "The weakest Grand Immortal of the Confucian sect, Zixia," said the Western Poison Emperor.


    Zixia, the weakest of the Confucian Grand Immortals, was also the one who had received the most direct teachings from Confucius. Some even noticed that over the years, Zixia''s appearance had gradually started to resemble a younger Confucius.


    Confucius had many disciples, but he was excessively kind to Zixia. While he wouldn''t give Zixia treasures, any heavenly elixirs or medicines that could improve one''s constitution would always be Zixia''s to use if there was only one avable.


    Even Confucius''s living descendants were envious of this.


    Zixia''s natural talent was average at best, but Confucius had forcibly elevated him to the level of a Grand Immortal using countless heavenly medicines.


    Zixia was deeply grateful to Confucius. When he wasn''t allowed to join the battle, Zixia had been frustrated. When Sikong offered to sit in the Confucian Holy Pce for him, Zixia had eagerly rushed out, determined to reach the Heavenly Court as quickly as possible to fight alongside his master.


    But as he flew toward the Heavenly Court, Zixia felt as though a heavy stone was pressing on his heart, growing heavier with each passing moment.


    Finally, as he neared the Heavenly Court, his ominous premonition was confirmed.


    The heavens thundered, and vast quantities of blood rain began to fall.


    A sage had fallen, and the heavens mourned?


    This wasn''t the first time Zixia had witnessed such an event, so he knew exactly what it meant. But he still clung to a shred of hope, because there were two sages; it couldn''t possibly be his master, it couldn''t be...


    Flying faster and faster, Zixia finally arrived outside the Heavenly Court, only to witness the most unbearable sight. Confucius had fallen!


    "Master!" Zixia cried out in anguish, rushing forward.


    Ying''s body was also covered in wounds, but he had finally seeded in killing Confucius. Confucius was dead!


    Just as Ying was about tough triumphantly, Zixia''s sorrowful cry reached him, and in an instant, Zixia was right in front of him.


    At this moment, the Grand Dao of Confucianism was slowly dissipating, but Confucius''s "Heavenly Altar" still floated in the air.


    Ying, still in the posture of having pierced through Confucius, turned his head to see Zixia charging at him with bloodshot eyes, holding the <i>Chunqiu</i> scroll.


    Ying''s nose twitched as he opened his mouth and roared at Zixia.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~!"


    The roar shook the very space around them, and the terrifying sound caused the <i>Chunqiu</i> scroll in Zixia''s hand to crack. The frenzied Zixia was forcibly stopped in his tracks by the roar, unable to advance any further.


    "St!"


    With a thunderous sound, everything fell silent as one of Ying''s wings viciously pierced through Zixia''s throat.


    "Boom!"


    With a single p of his dragon-bone wing, Ying ripped Zixia in half.


    The countless powerful beings watching from a distance felt their scalps tingle with fear.


    Zixia was a Grand Immortal, even if he was one of the weaker ones, but to think that Ying could tear him apart with just one wing?


    Ying''s terrifying power left an indelible impression on everyone.


    "Roar!"


    Lowering his head, Ying let out another earth-shaking roar at Confucius''s corpse, then suddenly sank his two fangs into the body.


    "Sssssss!"


    Confucius''s body rapidly shrank, and within just six seconds, it was gone��absorbed, devoured by Ying!


    Even the blood on Ying''s hands, which had pierced through Confucius, seemed to be absorbed as if by his very skin.


    This scene left everyone breathless; it was too horrifying. This Ying was too terrifying, too monstrous!


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Ying let out another roar, and a Heavenly Altar suddenly appeared beneath his feet.


    Zhong Shan recognized it as the "Living Position" Heavenly Altar��one he also possessed. The only difference was the style and runes.


    The thousand-zhang-sized Living Position Heavenly Altar beneath Ying''s feet suddenly descended onto Confucius''s "Habit Position" Heavenly Altar.


    Ying''s Heavenly Altar was ck, while Confucius''s was white. As Ying''s altar descended, it strangely merged with Confucius''s, creating a fusion of countless new runes. The enormous white Habit Position Heavenly Altar slowly turned into a jet-ck jade color.


    Magnificent, majestic, vast, and powerful!


    A new Heavenly Altar was born!


    Standing atop this new Heavenly Altar, Ying let out a long howl to the sky!


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Ying''s Grand Dao suddenly appeared, towering to the heavens, pushing everything around it away with overwhelming dominance, even forcing Zhun Ti to step back slightly.


    A million-li-long ck jade dragon coiled around the Grand Dao, roaring in harmony with Ying''s roar, letting out a deafening dragon''s cry.


    "Roar~~~~~~~~~~!"


    Ying''s dominance was unparalleled. Countless powerful beings around them unknowingly knelt down in submission, as if their very souls werepelled to bow.


    On this day, a sage had fallen, and the heavens wept. From this day forward, Confucius would be consigned to history.


    But today was also Ying''s most glorious day. Sage-yer! Bloodthirsty sage-yer! He had seeded, and even the Heavenly Altar beneath his feet had undergone a monumental transformation. A brand new "Habit Position" Heavenly Altar had been born.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1041: The World in Chaos

    <h4>Chapter 1041: The World in Chaos</h4>


    In thend of Lujiang, at the grand Confucian Temple of Schrs.


    Thousands of Confucian schrs gathered to recite the <i>Analects of Confucius</i>, their collective faith converging upon the colossal statue of Confucius, a manifestation of their boundless reverence. The towering statue of Confucius radiated millions of beams of light, transmitting the unceasing faith to the four continents where Confucius''s presence was most revered.


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous roar shook the heavens and the earth. An endless crimson cloud spread across the sky, drenching thend below in a torrential downpour of blood. A vast mist of blood rose from the earth, engulfing everything in sight.


    The voices of the Confucian schrs of Lujiang fell silent, their hearts ovee by an immense sense of destion and despair. A terrifying sorrow permeated their souls.


    The fall of a Sage had caused the heavens and earth to mourn in unison!


    Across the world, every Confucian schr felt a sharp pain in their hearts as the essence of the grand Confucian Dao that had been bestowed upon them suddenly copsed.


    A horrifying realization struck them all at once.


    Confucius had fallen!


    Confucius had truly fallen?


    It was as if the sky itself had copsed. In the Confucian Temple of Schrs, many of the great Confucian sages began to wail in grief. The leader of the Confucian Dao had perished? Their revered teacher had perished?


    How could a Sage like their teacher fall? Countless schrs knelt in reverence, weeping in anguish and cursing the heavens. They could not ept this heartbreaking truth.


    "Confucius once said, ''Isn''t it a pleasure to study and practice what you have learned? Isn''t it also great when friends visit from distant ces?''"


    In their panic, some of the great Confucian sages hastily resumed reciting the <i>Analects</i>, attempting to gather faith once more at the statue of Confucius. However, the statue now stood dim and lifeless, no longer epting their faith.


    Confucius was truly gone!


    "Master!"


    "Great Sage!"


    The entirend of Lujiang was engulfed in overwhelming grief. The schrs mourned the copse of their spiritual pir, themon peoplemented the death of their beloved Confucius, and many feared that Lujiang, once one of the most powerful territories under Confucius''s protection, would now fall into decline.


    The cries of sorrow echoed through the heavens, especially from the countless great Confucian sages gathered around the statue.


    Yet, no one noticed that at this moment, a faint white light flickered in the eyes of the statue.


    The white light shed and shot towards the grand Confucian Temple of Schrs not far away.


    "Swish!"


    The white light entered the temple.


    Inside the grand Confucian Temple of Schrs, at its center, a man in white robes sat cross-legged, his back facing the entrance.


    As the white light entered the temple, it transformed into a transparent human figure. Had Zhong Shan been present, he would have been astonished to see that this figure bore an uncanny resemnce to Zixia, who had earlier been torn apart by Ying''s wings.


    "Zixia, why are you not outside?" the transparent figure asked in a deep voice, a hint of confusion in its tone.


    "Zixia? Why don''t you answer me?"


    "Zixia, what technique are you practicing now? Didn''t I tell you, aside from the techniques I gave you, you are not to practice any others?"


    "Don''t ruin my body..."


    The transparent figure, filled with urgency, dashed towards the white-robed figure, cing a hand on his shoulder.


    As the white-robed man turned around, the transparent figure''s face twisted in shock. It was not the familiar face of Zixia that he had expected. What he saw was not a human head at all��it was a grotesque, writhing mass, swollen and pulsating in a sickening manner. The sight was revolting, resembling a disgusting worm''s head that made one''s skin crawl at a mere nce.


    "Divine Beast, Qu''ni��n!" the transparent figure cried out in horror.


    "It''s me, Great Ancestor!" The monstrous creature suddenly spoke in a sinister voice.


    "Sekong!" the transparent figure eximed, his voice filled with terror.


    But as he tried to pull his hand away, it seemed to be stuck to Sekong''s shoulder as if it were glued there.


    "I''ve waited for this day for a long time, and it came sooner than I expected. Don''t worry, your grandson is already inside my belly��he''s waiting to be reunited with you!" Sekong''s voice dripped with malice.


    Suddenly, Sekong''s mouth stretched wide, unleashing a terrifying suction force from within.


    It was as though Sekong''s mouth was the nemesis of the transparent figure, rendering him powerless to resist.


    "No! I refuse to ept this! I won''t die like this!" The transparent figure screamed in agony, his voice filled with despair. But it was all in vain. Despite his lifelong dominance, he was now meeting an unjust end in the maw of this cowardly and despicable creature.


    "Your grandson said the same thing before I devoured him. Truly, the apple doesn''t fall far from the tree," the monstrous Qu''ni��n head sneered as it shook.


    Meanwhile, at the Heavenly Court.


    Ying had just devoured a Sage! The world was in shock, and with the absorption of Confucius''s Heaven and Earth Altar, no one could now say for sure what kind of celestial rank Ying had attained.


    With a roar and a dragon''s cry, Ying''s Dao vanished. He then turned his gaze towards another Sage��Miti��n!


    But it wasn''t just Ying; in that moment, every eye suddenly turned towards Sage Miti��n.


    Haotian, Taishang, Jieyin, Zhunti, and Ying��all five of them looked at him with cold indifference.


    A Sage was frightened by five Ancestor Immortals? In any other context, such a im would be met with ridicule, aughable absurdity. But here, it was not a joke; it was reality.


    After all, another Sage had just been devoured right before their eyes!


    Two Sages had faced off against five Ancestor Immortals, and one of them had already been killed. Now only Sage Miti��n remained! Fear wasn''t just appropriate��it was overwhelming, especially given Miti��n''s infamous cowardice.


    Standing atop his Heaven and Earth Altar, Miti��n fell silent.


    The gathered spectators looked on in disbelief. One Sage had already fallen today��could it be that another would soon follow?


    These five were terrifyingly ruthless!


    Though Miti��n was fearful, he was different from Confucius. Ying had exploited a fatal w in Confucius, leading to his downfall, but Miti��n''s vulnerabilities were unknown to the others. However, despite this, the familiarity among them was undeniable, and Miti��n was still terrified.


    "Let''s end it here," Taishang suddenly said in a calm tone.


    At his words, Zhunti and Jieyin both nodded in agreement.


    Miti��n let out a silent sigh of relief, though his nerves remained taut.


    "End it here? If I recall correctly, Miti��n is no gentleman. Aren''t you afraid he might take you down one by one in the future?" Ying remarked casually.


    "You!" Miti��n red at Ying in fury.


    Taishang, Zhunti, and Jieyin suddenly turned their angry gazes toward Ying, clearly unwilling to escte the conflict any further.


    "Indeed, let''s ughter another Sage today!" the Jade Emperor suddenly dered.


    "Very well! Since you are all so resolute, I won''t let you have it easy either!" Miti��n roared in fury.


    Disaster!


    Taishang, Jieyin, and Zhunti''s expressions changed instantly��they had pushed Miti��n too far!


    "Attack, quickly!" Taishang urgentlymanded.


    Jieyin and Zhunti swiftly made their moves. Ying, however, stood coldly atop the Heaven and Earth Altar, not making a move, and the Jade Emperor did the same.


    "Boom!"


    It was as if the Heaven and Earth Altar beneath Miti��n exploded. The space around them suddenly copsed, and a massive ck hole enveloped Miti��n, pulling him toward one of the heavenly veins.


    "Buzz!"


    The entire heavenly vein began to tremble violently.


    "Boom!"


    Another earth-shattering explosion erupted. The already thick blood clouds in the sky tripled in density, and the terrifying blood rain turned into a torrential downpour, with geysers of blood erupting from the ground.


    "Another Sage has fallen?" Hao Meili eximed in shock.


    "No, Miti��n hasn''t fallen!" Mr. Corpse suddenly interjected.


    "He hasn''t? Then why is the world reacting like this?"


    "Sage Miti��n has sacrificed his ''Sage Position'' to forcibly activate the heavenly veins, defying the order of the heavens and triggering the heavenly retribution!" Mr. Corpse exined.


    "Sacrificing his Sage Position?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, earlier Jieyin mentioned that two Sages could use the heavenly veins to trigger the heavenly retribution, but a single Sage couldn''t. Miti��n, being closest to the heavenly vein, sacrificed his Sage Position. Though he has fallen from the Sage rank, he has sessfully triggered the heavenly retribution. A great disaster is about to unfold! Jieyin is in trouble!" Mr. Corpse said with concern.


    "Boom!"


    As Mr. Corpse finished speaking, the massive <i>Forty-Nine Heavenly Dao Formation</i> in the distance suddenly copsed.


    The shattered Heavenly Court also fell from the sky, crashing down to the earth below.


    The only thing left trembling was that single heavenly vein.


    In an instant, the earth quaked, and countless fissures appeared across the four continents, as if the end of the world had arrived.


    Many powerful beings found themselves unable to even fly in this moment.


    The endless blood clouds in the sky were suddenly pushed aside by a mass of yellow clouds.


    "Buzz!"


    The blood geysers on the ground stopped erupting, instead rising into pirs of heavenly energy.


    Countless pirs of heavenly energy sprang up across the four continents, and the entire world suddenly became chaotic, with the energy flow disrupted. Many cultivators in seclusion were suddenly thrown into a state of demonic deviation.


    Endless spiritual energy converged toward the Heavenly Court. The amount was overwhelming, surpassing even the effect caused by Zhong Shan''s previous actions at Xianyang Holy Capital.


    Without hesitation, the <i>Eye of Heavenly Retribution</i> within Zhong Shan''s divine realm began to throb violently.


    The endless spiritual energy was drawn in, and pirs of heavenly energy rose one after another, being replicated madly within the divine realm.


    Above Zhong Shan''s head, a vortex of spiritual energy formed.


    Zhong Shan quickly absorbed the energy.


    The sixty-first pir of heavenly energy, the sixty-second, the sixty-third... the hundredth!


    The red lotus between Zhong Shan''s brows suddenly turned blue. Zhong Shan swiftly severed the connection between his divine realm and the greater world, stopping the absorption.


    At that moment, countless people fell to their knees in worship.


    Among those kneeling were Zhong Shan''s subordinates: Hao Meili, Mr. Corpse, Luo Xingchen, Xidu Huang, and Nangong Sheng.


    Even on another mountain, someone as powerful as Kong Xuan also knelt down.


    The sky hadpletely turned yellow, shrouded in yellow clouds.


    Almost everyone knelt in submission.


    Only those who held the positions of Heaven and Earth in life did not kneel.


    Zhong Shan stepped onto the Heaven and Earth Altar.


    Ying stood on his own Heaven and Earth Altar, as did the Jade Emperor. Even Taishang, Zhunti, and Jieyin somehow stepped onto a phantom-like Heaven and Earth Altar.


    They all looked up at the sky, where a massive fissure had opened in the yellow clouds. Seeing this fissure, Taishang, Zhunti, and Jieyin all wore bitter smiles.


    No one dared to raise their heads, except for those standing on the Heaven and Earth Altars. Everyone else seemed to be oppressed to the core of their souls by the pressure, even someone as powerful as Kong Xuan. This pressure was iprehensibly immense.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1042: The Collective

    <h4>Chapter 1042: The Collective</h4>


    The yellow clouds that covered the sky began to part, revealing a thin fissure. From within that fissure emanated a terrifying aura.


    Across the four great continents, nearly everyone was prostrated on the ground, without any apparent reason other than an overwhelmingpulsion to kneel. It was as if a supreme presence had descended, reducing all to mere ants.


    The only ones who remained standing were a select few: Zhong Shan, Tathagata, Ying, the Jade Emperor, Taishang, Zhunti, Jieyin, and Sa. These individuals were able to stand because they each possessed a Heaven and Earth Altar.


    A bitter expression appeared on the faces of Taishang, Zhunti, and Jieyin.


    The vast heavenly vein that had appeared earlier also vanished, bing one of the three thousand Heavenly Daos.


    On the ground below, a broken and battered youthy sprawled out, his body shattered and covered in cracks, much like Kong Xuan from before. Yet, a sliver of life still lingered within him, keeping him from death.


    Everyone''s eyes were fixed on the fissure in the sky��the heavenly retribution. Was this truly the heavenly retribution?


    Zhong Shan focused intently on it, sensing that he had grasped something significant. His eyes gradually narrowed.


    "Rumble..."


    The fissure slowly widened, and everyone on the ground gazed up at it. As the fissure opened further, it revealed the scene within.


    The moment Zhong Shan glimpsed inside, he instinctively lowered his head. It was as if a tremendous pressure prevented him from daring to look directly, but in that brief moment, he had seen it.


    Zhong Shan had seen an eye!


    It resembled the <i>Eye of Heavenly Retribution</i>.


    However, this eye was ck and white, with a white sclera and a ck pupil. At first nce, it appeared no different from an ordinary human eye, but within the ck pupily an aura of the future.


    It was as if this eye could traverse both past and future.


    Was it simr to the <i>Eye of Heavenly Retribution</i>? Could this be the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>?


    Zhong Shan felt his own <i>Eye of Heavenly Retribution</i> within his divine realm, now tightly shut, trembling slightly.


    The earlier blood rain had leftrge pools of blood on the ground, and Zhong Shan, not daring to raise his head, could only observe the sky through the reflection.


    That eye radiated a suffocating presence, as though a single nce from it could destroy heaven and earth.


    "Buzz..."


    The three thousand Heavenly Daos suddenly began to tremble, and a faint glimmer of light flickered within the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>.


    Simultaneously, beams of light shot out from both the three thousand Heavenly Daos and the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>, striking the fallen youth on the ground��Miti��n, who had descended into the mortal realm.


    Bathed in the endless light, Miti��n was enveloped by a radiant sphere, from which a powerful aura emanated. His body slowly began to rise, and beneath him, the Heaven and Earth Altar that had previously exploded began to gradually restore itself!


    "Ha! Haha! Hahaha...!" Miti��n''sughter echoed through the heavens.


    Beyond the four great continents, beams of divine light and countless visions of divine beasts shot into the sky, signifying a great resurgence in the world. Someone had ascended to the Sage Position! Combined with the earlier blood rain that had yet to cease, the outside world was engulfed in a maelstrom of celestial phenomena.


    In the underworld, within the territory of the Wheel Domain.


    Yinhou Zhong Shan, apanied by his ministers, stepped out of the grand hall to observe the spectacle unfolding in the heavens.


    "Holy King, what is happening?" Yi Yan asked in confusion.


    Zhong Shan raised his hand, signaling Yi Yan to stop speaking, as he gazed at the heavens, his emotions surging within him.


    In Lujiang, countless Confucian schrs stared nkly at the sky, lost in confusion.


    At the Confucian Temple of Schrs, Sekong, whose grotesque worm-like head had returned to its normal appearance, casually stepped out of the grand hall. ncing at the sky, a subtle expression flickered across his face.


    "This ce is no longer safe," Sekong muttered to himself before striding away.


    Beneath the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>, Miti��nughed heartily. Just moments ago, he had been prepared to gamble everything, facing potential mutual destruction. Yet, luck had favored him��Ying and the Jade Emperor had only <i>spoken</i> of attacking, while Taishang, Zhunti, and Jieyin had actually made their moves.


    In the final gamble, Miti��n had emerged victorious.


    Having fallen from the Sage rank to the mortal realm, Miti��n had, in a blink, been restored by the <i>Heavenly Will</i>, regaining his Sage status. Not only that, but all his injuries were healed in an instant.


    To be reinstated as a Sage��how could Miti��n not be ecstatic?


    The stoic demeanor of a Sage typically arises from theck of anything capable of stirring deep emotions. But now, something had.


    Miti��n Sage was now brimming with arrogance!


    Under the very gaze of the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>, he extended his hand toward the Jade Emperor.


    "Miti��n!" the Jade Emperor roared.


    The Jade Emperor''s entire body radiated with white light as if he were about to merge with his Dao. Yet, at that very moment, beneath the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>, the Jade Emperor''s Dao refused to manifest.


    It was as though the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i> was permitting Miti��n Sage''s actions or perhaps even rewarding him.


    "Boom!"


    With no resistance, the Jade Emperor was struck down by Miti��n Sage, who then reached out and collected the body.


    The gathering of ghosts and demons was nowplete!


    As Miti��n Sageughed wildly, he nced at the others. Weren''t they the ones who had just enjoyed attacking him?


    Miti��n Sage dared not act recklessly toward Taishang, Zhunti, and Jieyin, as they were favored by the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>. That left only Ying!


    Ying, having returned to his human form, stood firmly atop his Heaven and Earth Altar.


    Miti��n Sage eyed Ying, a sh of murderous intent in his gaze, but just as he prepared to strike, he caught Ying''s fierce gaze.


    Ying''s eyes were terrifyingly sharp. Even Miti��n Sage felt a pang of fear at the sight.


    Recalling Ying''s earlier disy of ferocity, Miti��n Sage hesitated, his foot faltering��he dared not take the step forward!


    Ying''s ferocity was simply too overwhelming!


    Having dealt with the Jade Emperor, Miti��n Sage stood tall once more and respectfully bowed to the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>.


    This confirmed what Hongjun had once said: Miti��n had no depth, was a merepdog of the Heavenly Will, and was utterly useless in any meaningful capacity.


    Yet, even such a person was a Sage��a Sage favored by the Heavenly Will.


    Taishang, Zhunti, and Jieyin exchanged nces, their expressions filled with disdain as they looked at Miti��n Sage. Finally, they all turned their gazes to the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>.


    Suddenly, a massive pagoda appeared in Taishang''s hand, a multicolored tree in Zhunti''s hand, and a nine-tiered golden lotus in Jieyin''s hand.


    The three of them raised their treasures, and three massive beams of light shot toward the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>.


    As they tore through space, the beams surged aggressively toward the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>.


    "Buzz!"


    The space around the three beams of light suddenly froze as they approached the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i>. In an instant, the beams were halted in mid-air. Then, the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i> shot out three beams of white light straight downward.


    "Boom!" "Boom!" "Boom!"


    The three mighty treasures were shattered into pieces, their fragments scattering in all directions. But the white light did not stop; it surged into the bodies of the three ancient Sages.


    "Crack!"


    The sound was like the shattering of crystal. The three ancient Sages stood frozen, unmoving.


    The <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i> red down once more, and the sky unleashed a barrage of divine retribution. Countless bolts of lightning rained down from the heavens, reducing mountains, buildings, and countless beings to dust.


    This was not limited to the four great continents but extended across the entire world, including the entire underworld. The Wheel Domain, the Fengzhong Domain��everywhere was engulfed in a storm of violent lightning. It was a dire warning from the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i> to the entire world!


    "Rumble..."


    The supreme power of the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i> slowly receded as the eye began to close. The yellow clouds dispersed, and the three thousand Heavenly Daos gradually faded away.


    All around, the world slowly returned to normal.


    Miti��n nced at Taishang, Zhunti, and Jieyin, considering for a moment before deciding not to confront them further. Instead, he scanned the surroundings and eventually spotted Zhong Shan.


    After all, aside from Tathagata, Zhong Shan was the only one still standing.


    Miti��n Sage was slightly surprised and felt a strange sense of familiarity, as if he had seen Zhong Shan several times before but had always overlooked him. Who was this person?


    As Miti��n Sage pondered, Ying, Taishang, Zhunti, and Jieyin all turned their gazes toward him.


    With a cold snort, Miti��n Sage flicked his sleeve and vanished from sight.


    The people began to slowly rise to their feet, each drenched in sweat and filled with terror.


    Kong Xuan was the first to stand, his expression unchanging. He then looked toward the three ancient Sages, a trace of regret flickering in his eyes.


    Zhong Shan''s subordinates, along with Hao Meili, also stood up.


    "That was terrifying!" Hao Meili said, her heart still racing with fear.


    Luo Xingchen and the others remained silent, the weight of the experience leaving them speechless.


    In the distance, Ying looked in Zhong Shan''s direction��or rather, directly at Zhong Shan��his expression filled with hesitation.


    "Whoosh!"


    Jieyin suddenly appeared in front of Zhong Shan.


    "We''re leaving!" Jieyin said, sweeping hisrge sleeve and instantly taking Zhong Shan and his group away.


    Ying watched as Zhong Shan departed, his expression growing moreplex before he resolutely looked around at the four directions.


    As Jieyin led Zhong Shan''s group away, in a distant corner, Tathagata''s expression also grewplicated.


    A sh of golden light appeared as Jinpeng suddenly arrived from somewhere.


    "Zhong Shan left with Jieyin?" Jinpeng asked Kong Xuan.


    "Yes," Kong Xuan nodded.


    "So, you''re not going to stop me now?" Jinpeng asked in a deep voice.


    "No," Kong Xuan shook his head.


    "Good. Jieyin''s fate is already broken, his end is near. Let''s see where they try to run this time! Hmph!" Jinpeng snorted coldly before transforming into a stream of light and disappearing.


    As Jinpeng vanished, Kong Xuan frowned slightly, thought for a moment, and then also disappeared from sight.


    In the distance, Zhunti nced at Sun Shen, a hint of sadness in his eyes, before appearing in front of him.


    "Come with me," Zhunti said.


    "Yes," Sun Shen nodded.


    Taishang looked around, his expression difficult to describe, before also disappearing from the scene.


    The three ancient Sages were doomed, their fates shattered. In the end, it had all been orchestrated by Ying and the Jade Emperor. Yet none of the three seemed to me Ying; they each departed in their own way.


    "Whoosh!"


    In the distance, a group of Great Qin soldiers suddenly flew out.


    "Congrattions to the Holy King��no, congrattions to the Heavenly Emperor!" Bai Qi, at the forefront, eximed in congrattions.


    "Return to Great Qin and prepare the army to invade Lujiang!" Yingmanded.


    "By yourmand!" The generals shouted excitedly in response.


    With that, Ying and the Great Qin generals disappeared from sight.


    In a distant valley, four figures stood together.


    The former Heavenly Court''s Gouchen Emperor, Zhenwu Emperor, Ziwei Emperor, and the God of gue.


    The four had witnessed the entire event from start to finish. Finally, they exchanged nods before dispersing, each going their separate ways.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8

 Chapter 1043: Zhong Shan鈥檚 Killing Intent

    <h4>Chapter 1043: Zhong Shan''s Killing Intent</h4>


    Tathagata watched as the powerful figures departed one after another. After standing in contemtion for a moment, he too stepped forward and disappeared.


    With the departure of the strongest beings, the area, once rich with spiritual energy, had be chaotic. Before long, a massive storm began to brew, turning the environment into an extremely hostile one.


    Despite the worsening conditions, many cultivators were reluctant to leave.


    The Heavenly Court had been annihted, with everyone within it meeting their demise!


    The news of this cataclysmic battlefield, as fierce as the winds that now howled through thend, spread rapidly across the world. Ying''s overwhelming dominance and the fall of Confucius were conveyed through countless jade slips, swiftly reaching the desks of leaders across the various factions.


    Ten dayster, the area waspletely engulfed by the hurricane. Yet, many powerful individuals braved the storm to witness the ruins of the battlefield and the shattered remains of the Heavenly Court.


    On this particr day, another group ventured into the storm.


    "Master, I saw it with my own eyes that day. This is where the Jade Emperor fell, and over there is where Confucius was devoured by Ying. It was brutal��Confucius was torn apart alive by Ying," a guide narrated to the others.


    "Torn apart alive?" one of the listeners asked, frowning.


    "Of course! Don''t believe the rumors��I''m telling you, I saw it myself. Ying was tearing and eating at the same time, so ferocious that even Miti��n Sage was trembling, his face turning pale!" the guide boasted.


    "You could see the face of a Sage? Aren''t their faces impossible to see?" another person questioned, exposing the guide''s exaggeration.


    "Uh? Sixth Junior Brother, if you''re going to listen, don''t interrupt!" the guide snapped, irritated.


    "Enough! Where are the ruins of the Heavenly Court?" the leader of the group demanded.


    "Master, it''s right over there. The space around it is unstable, and no one can get close!" the guide pointed to the distance.


    "Huh? But didn''t you say the space was unstable and no one could approach? Then why is there someone standing there?" the sixth junior brother remarked skeptically.


    "Impossible! I saw a Celestial Immortal try to get close and be crushed to dust!" the guide retorted quickly.


    But indeed, a figure stood there, dressed in an elegant ck robe.


    "Who is that?" the guide eximed in surprise.


    "Silence!" the leader immediatelymanded.


    It was then that the group noticed that the ck-robed figure''s face was obscured, as if covered by ayer of mist.


    With a flick of his sleeve, the ck-robed man swept up the ruins of the Heavenly Court into his sleeve, and with a single step, he vanished from the scene.


    "Who... who was that?" the sixth junior brother stammered, swallowing hard.


    "A face obscured... Was that a Sage?" the guide murmured in shock.


    "No, that was Sa!" the master, well-versed in the ways of the world, immediately recognized the figure.


    "Sa?"


    "Let''s go! This ce is no longer safe!" the master urged, his voice filled with panic��


    In a secluded valley, surrounded byyers of protective formations, stood a grand hall at its center. Outside, Xidu Huang, Hao Meili, Luo Xingchen, Mr. Corpse, Nangong Sheng, and Little Gold Dragon kept vignt watch.


    Inside, Zhong Shan and Jieyin were engaged in a crucial task.


    "G��t��ng, activate!" Zhong Shanmanded in a deep voice from within.


    The entire hall was bathed in a brilliant red light!


    After exerting immense effort, Zhong Shan''s body swayed slightly from exhaustion.


    Jieyin quickly extended a hand to Zhong Shan''s forehead, channeling a surge of energy into his body to swiftly replenish his spent strength.


    "Like I said before, it won''t work," Jieyin said with a wry smile.


    "Why won''t it work?" Zhong Shan''s eyes widened in frustration.


    "Your G��t��ng does indeed have the power to create miracles, but it can only save the living. I, in the strictest sense, am already dead," Jieyin replied, shaking his head.


    "Dead?" Zhong Shan frowned.


    "Yes, it''s useless. My life essence has already perished, and my fate has been shattered. What you see now is merely a shadow, a remnant that lingers in this world, soon to dissipate. But in these final moments, with a friend by my side, I am content," Jieyin said calmly.


    Zhong Shan''s heart grew heavy, his nose tingling with a hint of sadness.


    "Zhong Shan, let me be your disciple. You must teach me, teach me how to win over a saintess! I''ve dreamed of winning the heart of a saintess from a sacred ground since I was young, and now my future depends on you."


    "That powerful? Then make one for me too! I''ll trade a great celestial weapon with you!"


    "Five pieces, that''s my bottom line. One shouldn''t be too greedy!"


    Memories of past days with Jieyin flooded Zhong Shan''s mind. Was there really no way to save such a dear friend?


    Jieyin looked at Zhong Shan and said, "There''s no need to be sad. In truth, I died tens of thousands of years ago. Just being able to live again and see this world one more time has been enough for me."


    Zhong Shan fell into a heavy silence.


    Jieyin reached out and took out a crystal, within which a golden ''�d'' symbol was sealed.


    "I know you have a son, the current master of Tianyin Temple. I''m about to leave, and there''s nothing left that holds me here, except for you and Princess Nine Tails, the only two true friends I''ve ever had. Since Princess Nine Tails is now in the Fox Realm, that leaves only you. Take this Buddhist symbol. You can give it to your son; it will greatly help him," Jieyin said.


    Zhong Shan did not take it, his heart weighed down by the gravity of the situation. Jieyin, as if preparing for the end, ced the crystal on the ground before Zhong Shan.


    "Taishang, Zhunti, Tongtian, and I��we are all going to vanish," Jieyin said softly.


    "Tongtian? Sa? He wasn''t there; how could this happen? Why didn''t you leave?" Zhong Shan asked.


    "Leave? It wouldn''t have mattered. As long as we are in this world, the <i>Eye of Heaven''s Will</i> sees us. Tongtian wasn''t there? He''s been reborn, and he certainly won''t escape. Only Hongjun and Yuanshi have yet to be reborn," Jieyin reminisced.


    "Hongjun, Yuanshi��both of them are master strategists. Compared to them, we fall short. They will return, but Hongjun will never allow Yuanshi to live. Yuanshi knows this, but he won''t be able to defeat Hongjun. You must be careful of Hongjun in the future��his calctions are too profound. No one knows how many contingencies he has prepared!" Jieyin warned.


    "And if possible, find the Zixiao Pce as soon as you can. Most of Hongjun''s power is sealed inside, along with several of the supreme treasures he has collected. It''s the same as that living I once mentioned," Jieyin sighed.


    "I will," Zhong Shan nodded.


    "Be wary of two people: Ying and Tathagata. From this day forward, do not trust them!" Jieyin said, catching his breath.


    "I understand," Zhong Shan nodded again.


    "Heh, this world is descending into chaos. It''s going to be a time of great turmoil, and you are still too weak," Jieyin said with a bitter smile.


    "I will be strong, very strong," Zhong Shan reassured him.


    "I know you will. I believe you''ll be an Ancestor Immortal in no time. You''ll gather power quickly, expand your empire, but you''re still missing one crucial thing��something most precious," Jieyin said.


    "What is it?" Zhong Shan asked, frowning.


    "umtion of the Heart Dao," Jieyin replied.


    "The Heart Dao?"


    "Yes, just like a ''divine ability.'' As you grow and reach this level, you should have developed your own unique divine ability by now, right? Like your subordinate, who mastered the Time Divine Ability. But you? You''ve grown too quickly, too impatiently," Jieyin shook his head.


    Zhong Shan fell silent.


    "I will help you," Jieyin offered.


    "You''ll help me?" Zhong Shan asked in surprise.


    "Trust me. Close your eyes and focus. Don''t speak, and shut off all your senses. Use your heart to feel," Jieyin instructed solemnly.


    "I trust you," Zhong Shan said firmly.


    Closing his eyes, Zhong Shan sat cross-legged, cutting off all external contact and shutting down his six senses. He could no longer hear anything from Jieyin.


    Jieyin looked at Zhong Shan and smiled sadly.


    "To have a friend like you in this second life is enough for me. I will transform into the Bodhi Tree and help youprehend all spiritual essences, spending my final moments in this world. I have no regrets. I hope you can break through the struggles we faced and be the strongest under the heavens," Jieyin said with deep sincerity.


    With that, Jieyin''s body began to transform, slowly bing a lush green tree. The tree grew to cover Zhong Shan, and countless rays of green light descended from the leaves, entering Zhong Shan''s body.


    As the tree continued to transfer its energy, it gradually began to fade, bing more and more translucent.


    Three dayster, the treepletely disappeared, and within the hall, Jieyin had vanished��dissipated into nothingness. The only thing left behind was the crystal containing the golden ''�d'' symbol.


    Zhong Shan remained seated, his face shifting through a spectrum of colors as countless streams of light flickered across his features.


    After Jieyin''s disappearance, another seven days passed before Zhong Shan''s eyes suddenly snapped open.


    When his eyes opened, two beams of thirteen-colored light shot out, striking a nearby pir.


    "Boom!" The pir shattered into pieces.


    Zhong Shan quickly stood up.


    "Jieyin? Jieyin? Su Afo? Su Afo,e out! Come out here, you bastard!" Zhong Shan shouted, his voice filled with anguish as tears streamed down his face. But Jieyin would never answer him again.


    "Zhong Shan, let me be your disciple. You must teach me, teach me how to win over a saintess! I''ve dreamed of winning the heart of a saintess from a sacred ground since I was young, and now my future depends on you."


    "Five pieces, that''s my bottom line. One shouldn''t be too greedy!"


    Su Afo''s words from the past echoed in Zhong Shan''s mind.


    Zhong Shan sat alone in the hall for a day, overwhelmed with sorrow.


    "Su Afo, I won''t let you down! I''ve understood now��I''ve grasped my own divine ability," Zhong Shan said, picking up the crystal from the ground with determination.


    As he spoke, he clenched his teeth, clearly struggling to suppress the deep sadness in his heart.


    "Boom!"


    At that moment, a loud explosion shook the hall. The massive structure crumbled into ruins.


    "Zhong Shan!" Hao Meili''s anxious voice called from outside.


    A sh of golden light swept through the area, turning the hall into a pile of rubble. Luo Xingchen and the others were lying on the ground, severely injured.


    In the sky above, Jinpeng, d in golden armor and wielding a me-covered Fang Tianhua halberd, had broken through the formation that Jieyin had set up.


    "Jieyin''s formation? Pathetic. Is that old fool dead yet?" Jinpeng sneered at Zhong Shan.


    Zhong Shan''s fists clenched tightly.


    Taking a step forward, Zhong Shan''s movement whipped up a fierce wind, cing himself protectively in front of hispanions.


    With the anger from his recent grief still burning within him, Zhong Shan confronted Jinpeng.


    "So, he''s really dead? That old bastard is finally gone! Hahaha!" Jinpengughed heartily.


    "Jinpeng!" Zhong Shan roared, his eyes shing with ferocity as his rage shot toward Jinpeng.


    The intensity of Zhong Shan''s fury was enough to make Jinpeng''sughter falter.


    "What? Think you''re tough now? How about using that Heaven-Opening Axe again? Without that old fool Jieyin, what tricks do you have left?" Jinpeng taunted coldly.


    "You''re asking for death!" Zhong Shan growled.


    As he spoke, the surrounding space grew icy, and a thickyer of frost and snow formed, frozen by the killing intent in Zhong Shan''s words.


    To read the manga version, please click the YouTube link https://youtu.be/GnU613H6xm8


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